Summary: \u00a0Joe tries to help Hoss to impress a girl, but things become complicated when Adam also gets involved.<\/p>\n
Rated: K+\u00a0 (10,225 words)<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
A Hoss by Any Other Name<\/strong><\/p>\n Hoss Cartwright stood gazing<\/strong> at the object of his affections and sighed as Miss Isabelle Morgan walked past him with a swish of her skirts and a tilt of her head in his direction.\u00a0 He leant on the lamppost and stared after the vision of loveliness with an ache in his heart, for he knew that she would never be interested in the likes of him and the thought saddened him immensely. Hoss was naturally shy with girls and those such as Isabelle usually intimidated him anyway. \u00a0The girl was new in town and had already caused a sensation with her beautiful blonde locks and her fair skin.\u00a0 Hoss knew that many men would be hankering after the likes of Miss Isabelle Morgan and that he didn\u2019t have a hope of attracting her.\u00a0 Still, he thought, a man could dream.<\/p>\n \u2018Whatcha looking at?\u2019 Hoss turned to see his younger brother Joe standing beside him.<\/p>\n \u2018Nuthin,\u2019 he replied and turned to haul another sack of grain up into the buckboard.<\/p>\n Joe looked down the street and grinned. \u2018Isabelle Morgan huh?\u2019 he said cheekily. \u2018She\u2019s a right beauty eh brother?\u00a0 Thinking of sparking her?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss frowned and tried not to look embarrassed.\u00a0 It amazed him how Joe always knew whenever he was interested in a woman.\u00a0 His younger brother had a knack for such things and his own prowess with girls was beginning to be quite legendary around town. \u2018Don\u2019t be stupid!\u2019 he muttered. \u2018As if the likes of her would be interested in me!\u2019<\/p>\n Joe put his arms around his older brother\u2019s shoulder as Hoss lifted yet another sack of grain. \u2018Don\u2019t sell yourself short brother,\u2019 he said. \u2018If you\u2019re interested in her then you should at least go and meet her.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss glared at him. \u2018Yeah right!\u2019 he muttered. \u2018I\u2019d be wasting my time and you know it.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe sat on the edge of the buckboard and looked thoughtful for a moment. \u2018Oh I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018You\u2019re a Cartwright after all.\u00a0 That\u2019s got to count for something older brother.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss stopped working and stared at the youngster. \u2018What do ya mean by that?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh you know,\u2019 replied Joe airily. \u2018The family reputation and all. You gotta admit that we\u2019re devastatingly attractive to women.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Some of us might be,\u2019 muttered Hoss as he began to work again. \u2018Not all of us though. Out of the way Joe \u2026 I gotta put this sack there.\u00a0 It wouldn\u2019t hurt you to help none either.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe leant forward and ignored his brother\u2019s last comment. \u2018You can be if you try Hoss,\u2019 he said. \u2018I reckon women would be interested in you if you\u2019d only let em.\u00a0 Do what I do for a start.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018And what would that be?\u2019 asked Hoss sarcastically. \u2018Tell em how wonderful you are?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018In a way,\u2019 admitted Joe. \u2018Haven\u2019t you ever watched our older brother in action? Now if you did, you\u2019d notice how he always impresses them with how much he knows first off.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss scratched his head. \u2018I ain\u2019t no Adam,\u2019 he said. \u2018I can\u2019t talk fancy and such like he does.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I know that,\u2019 admitted Joe. \u2018But you\u2019ve only got to give the impression that you do.\u00a0 I\u2019ve watched Adam and it\u2019s true.\u00a0 You start off a conversation and then the girl takes over after a bit.\u00a0 I\u2019ve tried it and it really works.\u00a0 You don\u2019t have to know much about them things that a girl likes \u2026 just make them think that you do.\u2019\u00a0 He sat back and put his hands behind his head. \u2018I reckon you should give it a go with Isabelle Hoss. What you got to lose?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss thought for a moment. \u2018Mebbe,\u2019 he said and then his eyes narrowed. \u2018Hey! How come you\u2019re not after her yaself younger brother? She\u2019s right good looker and you usually don\u2019t let any girl in town get away without a fight.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe gave a contented sigh. \u2018Well let\u2019s just say that I\u2019ve got my full share of women at the moment,\u2019 he said with a knowing look. \u2018Besides she\u2019s a bit too old for me, don\u2019t you think?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Mebbe,\u2019 admitted Hoss. \u2018Still \u2026 I can\u2019t help but think that she wouldn\u2019t be interested in the likes of me.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well you won\u2019t know unless you try,\u2019 urged Joe. \u2018Go on Hoss \u2026. Give it a go.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018What will I talk about?\u2019 asked Hoss. \u2018I got no idea.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Just ask her about herself,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018And if you need to, then just mention how you like books and music and stuff.\u00a0 It always works for Adam and me.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yeah but Adam really likes that stuff and you \u2026\u2019 Hoss faltered. \u2018Well, you just pretend to.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018And so can you!\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018See?\u00a0 I just pretend to and I get away with it!\u00a0 You can too Hoss \u2026 go on, give it a try!\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss\u2019 face split into a huge grin as he dragged the last of the sack onto the buckboard. \u2018Yeah!\u2019 he said. \u2018I believe you\u2019re right Joe. After all, what have I got to lose?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018That\u2019s the spirit!\u2019 said Joe, patting him on the back. \u2018Now that we\u2019ve finished loading all them supplies there\u2019s nothing to stop you doing it right now.\u2019\u00a0 He motioned to Isabelle who was standing a little way down the street looking into a store window. \u2018Go get her Hoss!\u00a0 I\u2019ll be in the Saloon having a drink while I wait.\u00a0 I think I\u2019ve earned it after all that hard work.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss\u2019 eyes were transfixed on the object of his attentions. \u2018Yeah Joe,\u2019 he said absently. \u2018You get yaself a drink and I\u2019ll meet ya there later.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Good luck!\u2019 shouted Joe as he watched Hoss walking down the street.<\/p>\n As Hoss approached Isabelle he took off his hat and smoothed back his hair before swallowing a couple of times.\u00a0 Close up she looked even more lovely and he was momentarily tongue-tied as he stared at her. Finally, Isabelle turned to look at him. \u2018Can I help you?\u2019 she asked sweetly.<\/p>\n \u2018Um \u2026 morning ma\u2019am,\u2019 Hoss muttered. \u2018I just though I\u2019d introduce myself, seeing as how you\u2019re new in town and all.\u2019 He gave her a grin and she gave him a sweet smile in return.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh that\u2019s very nice of you!\u2019 she exclaimed. \u2018I haven\u2019t had the chance to meet many new people here yet. Mr \u2026\u2019\u00a0 She held out her hand and Hoss grasped it firmly.<\/p>\n \u2018Cartwright,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh!\u2019 Her eyes lit up. \u2018One of the Cartwrights!\u00a0 I\u2019ve heard about your family.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Have ya?\u2019 Hoss was becoming more entranced with the girl with every passing moment. \u2018That\u2019s nice.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yes,\u2019 gushed Isabelle. \u2018I believe you own a large ranch outside town?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018That\u2019s right ma\u2019am,\u2019 said Hoss dreamily. \u2018We do.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018And you have two brothers,\u2019 continued Isabelle. \u2018I\u2019ve heard that two of you are very good looking.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss faltered. \u2018Two of us?\u2019 he said warily. \u2018Well \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I don\u2019t mean to be rude at all,\u2019 said Isabelle lightly. \u2018But the third brother \u2026 Hoss isn\u2019t it? Well I\u2019ve heard that he\u2019s not quite what the other two are. He\u2019s more of a shy type, whereas the other two are very interesting companions.\u2019\u00a0 She looked at Hoss hopefully. \u2018Which one are you?\u2019 she asked.\u00a0 When Hoss hesitated she continued. \u2018You\u2019re not young enough to be \u2026 I believe it\u2019s \u2026 Joe? Anyway people have told me that he\u2019s a bit of a ladies man so I\u2019d best steer clear of him.\u00a0 So you must be the older brother \u2026 Adam is it?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss hesitated for another moment before making up his mind. \u2018Um \u2026 well \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle put out her hand again and gave him a devastating smile. \u2018So pleased to meet you Adam,\u2019 she said. \u2018It\u2019s so nice to meet a man with an interest in the finer things of life way out here in the west.\u00a0 I\u2019ve heard that you are quite the expert on literature and music.\u00a0 Perhaps we could get together sometime and talk about our mutual interests?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss swallowed and made a quick decision. \u2018Um\u2026 yeah,\u2019 he said lamely. \u2018I mean \u2026 yes certainly.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle smiled again. \u2018That would be lovely,\u2019 she pressed. \u2018When?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Huh?\u2019\u00a0 Hoss was still reeling from the shock of being called Adam.<\/p>\n \u2018When could we get together Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Um \u2026 how about tomorrow?\u2019 suggested Hoss when he\u2019d found his voice again. \u2018We could \u2026 um \u2026\u2019 he searched his brain for something to suggest. \u2018We could go \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n A buggy ride would be nice,\u2019 Isabelle finished for him.<\/p>\n \u2018Yeah!\u2019 said Hoss with a grin. \u2018A buggy ride.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle took his hand again and shook it. \u2018Until tomorrow then,\u2019 she said brightly. \u2018I\u2019ll be looking forward to it Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Me too,\u2019 said Hoss dreamily as he watched her walk away.\u00a0 For several minutes he stood there staring after the girl and then he clapped his hand to his head in dismay. \u2018Oh Lordy!\u2019 he exclaimed. \u2018What have I done now?\u2019<\/p>\n He turned and ran towards the Saloon and entered it, immediately spying Joe seated in the corner. \u2018Hoss!\u2019 called out his brother. \u2018Over here!\u2019 Hoss sat down next to his younger brother and stared at him without saying a word. \u2018What\u2019s the matter Hoss?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018You don\u2019t look too good.\u00a0 She reject you huh?\u2019 Hoss shook his head without speaking. \u2018She didn\u2019t?\u2019 asked Joe. Hoss shook his head again. \u2018Then what happened?\u2019 asked Joe curiously. \u2018Tell me Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss swallowed before opening his mouth. \u2018She \u2026. um \u2026 she \u2026 me and her\u2019s gonna go on a buggy ride tomorrow,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n Joe clapped his brother on the back and grinned at him. \u2018See?\u2019 he said. \u2018I told you that you could do it! It wasn\u2019t hard, was it?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss shook his head again. \u2018Nah!\u2019 he admitted. \u2018It weren\u2019t hard at all. She was right taken with me.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I knew she would be,\u2019 said Joe smugly and he took another swig of his beer. \u2018After all, you are a Cartwright.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yeah,\u2019 admitted Hoss. \u2018Only I ain\u2019t the Cartwright she thinks!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018She thinks I\u2019m Adam,\u2019 said Hoss mournfully.<\/p>\n Joe looked puzzled. \u2018Now why on earth would she think that?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n \u2018Cause I let her,\u2019 replied Hoss sadly.<\/p>\n Joe put down his beer and gave his brother an incredulous look. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018Why?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Cause she was saying how she\u2019d heard that I wasn\u2019t good round women,\u2019 Hoss explained, his face reflecting his misery. \u2018And then she said how you and Adam were.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe puffed up. \u2018She did?\u2019 he said with a glint in his eye.<\/p>\n \u2018Yeah,\u2019 continued Hoss mournfully. \u2018And then she naturally assumed that I was Adam.\u2019\u00a0 He put his face in his hands. \u2018And I let her,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n Joe made a face. \u2018Well you\u2019ll just have to go back and tell her that you ain\u2019t Adam,\u2019 he said firmly.<\/p>\n \u2018But I can\u2019t Joe!\u2019 exclaimed Hoss. \u2018She\u2019s \u2026 I mean \u2026 she\u2019s plumb beautiful!\u00a0 I can\u2019t just go and tell her that I lied.\u00a0 She\u2019ll never have anything more ta do with me.\u2019\u00a0 His face took on a blissful look and he continued dreamily. \u2018Ya don\u2019t understand Joe.\u00a0 I think I\u2019m in love!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018But you\u2019ve only just met her!\u2019 protested Joe. \u2018You can\u2019t possibly be in love Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018When you\u2019re in love you\u2019re just in love,\u2019 Hoss assured his brother. \u2018Ain\u2019t no getting around that fact.\u2019\u00a0 His face took on a look of desperation. \u2018Help me Joe,\u2019 he pleaded. \u2018What am I gonna do?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe thought for a moment. \u2018Well there\u2019s only two things you can do Hoss,\u2019 he said finally. \u2018Tell her the truth and hope that she understands, or \u2026\u2019\u00a0 He looked his brother up and down. \u2018Keep on pretending that you\u2019re Adam I guess. That way you might have the chance to get to know her before she does find out the truth.\u00a0 By the time she does, then she might like you enough to forgive you.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yeah!\u2019 said Hoss happily. \u2018I\u2019ll pretend ta be Adam fer a bit longer.\u2019 His smile suddenly turned\u00a0 into a frown. \u2018But I can\u2019t Joe! She thinks that Adam knows bout books and music and suchlike. I don\u2019t know none of them things!\u2019<\/p>\n Joe shrugged. \u2018Well you\u2019ll just have to learn a bit,\u2019 he said. \u2018Just enough to get the conversation going.\u00a0 She should take over after you do.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss took off his hat and ran his fingers through his hair in a frustrated gesture. \u2018But I wouldn\u2019t even know where ta start looking fer things like that.\u2019 He clutched at his brother\u2019s collar. \u2018Ya gotta help me Joe!\u2019<\/p>\n Joe shook himself free. \u2018You just do what I do,\u2019 he said. \u2018Check out older brother\u2019s books and stuff.\u2019\u00a0 He patted Hoss on the arm and his eyes took on a crafty look. \u2018Don\u2019t you worry Hoss. I\u2019ll help you.\u00a0 After all, what are brothers for?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss shot his younger brother a grateful look. \u2018Thanks Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018I sure owe ya one.\u2019<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben looked up from his newspaper. \u2018Joseph?\u00a0 What on earth are you doing?\u2019 he asked.<\/p>\n Joe gave his father a grin before turning back to perusing the bookshelves. \u2018Just looking for a book,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018What?\u2019\u00a0 Adam straightened up in his chair and gave his youngest brother an incredulous look as he closed his own book with a bang. \u2018You\u2019re what?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe gave him a dark look. \u2018Don\u2019t look so surprised,\u2019 he said. \u2018I do read sometimes you know.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018You do?\u2019 said his father before he could stop himself. \u2018I mean \u2026 of course son.\u00a0 Anything in particular you were looking for?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well actually it\u2019s for Hoss,\u2019 explained Joe. \u2018He and I were talking bout that Shakespeare fellar today and \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n Adam began to choke and his father leant over and slapped him on the back a couple of times to relieve him. \u2018Who?\u2019 he asked when he\u2019d caught his breath again.<\/p>\n \u2018Shakespeare,\u2019 repeated Joe, oblivious to the looks he was getting from both of them. \u2018Don\u2019t we have a book with all his \u2026.\u2019\u00a0 He pulled a large volume down from the shelf. \u2018Ah \u2026 Here it is!\u00a0 I knew we had one somewhere.\u2019<\/p>\n Ben frowned. \u2018Joe don\u2019t you think that might be a bit heavy for you?\u2019 he asked discreetly. \u2018You\u2019re not really used to reading such things.\u00a0 Perhaps something a bit lighter?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018No thanks Pa,\u2019 said Joe blithely as he walked upstairs. \u2018This will do.\u00a0 Me and Hoss are gonna read it together and discuss it.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Let me know if you want any help understanding it!\u2019 called out Adam sarcastically. \u2018There\u2019s a dictionary on the shelf if you want it!\u2019<\/p>\n Ben slapped his eldest son on the shoulder and then pointed a finger at him. \u2018Be quiet!\u2019 he whispered. \u2018I think it\u2019s wonderful that those two are finally trying to better themselves.\u2019 Adam raised an eyebrow and said nothing as he opened his book again.<\/p>\n \u2018Here you go Hoss,\u2019 said Joe happily as he entered his brother\u2019s bedroom. \u2018The Complete Works of Shakespeare.<\/em>\u00a0 That oughta impress her!\u2019\u00a0 He settled down on the bed beside his brother and began to read. \u2018Hmm,\u2019 he said after a few minutes.<\/p>\n \u2018What?\u2019 asked Hoss, leaning over his shoulder to get a better look. \u2018Something the matter?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe scrunched up his nose. \u2018I see what Pa means,\u2019 he said. \u2018This is awful heavy. This Shakespeare guy writes funny too.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Funny how?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n \u2018Well look here \u2026 see? \u2026 he can\u2019t even spell the words right,\u2019 said Joe as he held the book up for Hoss to look at.<\/p>\n \u2018How come them gals all like his stories and stuff then Joe?\u2019 asked Hoss.<\/p>\n \u2018He\u2019s romantic is all,\u2019 replied Joe. \u2018Now all we gotta do is find one of them love stories that Adam is always going on about and \u2026 ah!\u2019 His eyes lit up as he turned a page. \u2018This is what we\u2019re looking for Hoss.\u00a0\u00a0Romeo and Juliet<\/em>.\u00a0 I remember Miss Jones used to make us read this one at school.\u00a0 All the girls loved it.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018What\u2019s it about?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well it\u2019s all about these two people who fall in love \u2026\u2019 began Joe.<\/p>\n \u2018Just like me and Miss Isabelle,\u2019 interrupted Hoss with a faraway look in his eye.<\/p>\n Joe gave him a frustrated look. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said. \u2018Well anyway \u2026 it\u2019s about two people who fall in love.\u00a0 Cept their families don\u2019t get on and they haveta meet in secret.\u00a0 At the end they both die.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018They get shot?\u2019 asked Hoss, suddenly interested.<\/p>\n \u2018No.\u00a0 I think that he drinks poison and then she stabs herself or something like that,\u2019 said Joe, turning the pages to find out. Now what you gotta do is just learn some of the romantic bits by heart and act like you know the whole story when she starts talking about it.\u2019<\/p>\n But Joe \u2026 how do I know she\u2019s gonna talk bout this one?\u2019 asked Hoss with a perplexed look on his face. \u2018What if she starts on bout one of them others?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe sighed. \u2018You start talking bout this one first,\u2019 he said. \u2018And if she changes it to one of the others then you steer the conversation back to this one.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss didn\u2019t look too sure of himself. \u2018But what if \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Trust me Hoss,\u2019 said Joe, putting his arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018Have I ever let you down before?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss thought for a moment. \u2018Well to be honest Joe \u2026\u2019 he began.<\/p>\n \u2018Let\u2019s find the romantic bits and you can learn em,\u2019 said Joe quickly.\u00a0 He began to turn the pages again.<\/p>\n Suddenly there was a sound at the door and they both looked up to see Adam standing there. \u2018How\u2019s it going?\u2019 he asked with a smirk on his face. \u2018Found anything interesting to discuss yet?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe gave him a superior look. \u2018As a matter of fact we have,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019re looking at\u00a0Romeo and Juliet\u00a0<\/em>first. Hoss here was just saying how much he likes the feud between the families.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018There\u2019s a feud?\u2019 said Hoss, grabbing the book. \u2018I didn\u2019t know that \u2026 Show me!\u2019<\/p>\n Adam stifled a laugh. \u2018I see,\u2019 he said smugly. \u2018And I suppose you\u2019ve noticed the underlying tragedy that unfolds throughout the story. The parallels between love and violence?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe hesitated. \u2018Of course!\u2019 he said. \u2018Anyone could see that!\u00a0 I was just about to say the very same thing to Hoss. Wasn\u2019t I Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I reckon so,\u2019 said Hoss, still turning pages and looking for a mention of the feud.<\/p>\n \u2018Hmm,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018May I ask why the sudden interest in culture?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Ain\u2019t nothing sudden about it,\u2019 said Joe loftily. \u2018Hoss has always been interested in such stuff.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Has he?\u2019 replied Adam, leaning against the door and watching Hoss who was still turning the pages furiously while looking for a reference to the feud. \u2018I must have missed that.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe snatched the book for Hoss and closed it with a bang. \u2018If you don\u2019t mind,\u2019 he said to Adam. \u2018We\u2019ve got things to talk about.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Sorry,\u2019 said Adam with a sarcastic grin. \u2018I don\u2019t mean to interrupt your indepth discussion. Please carry on.\u2019\u00a0 He turned and left, chuckling all the way down the hallway.<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t worry about him,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018He just thinks he\u2019s so clever.\u00a0 Now, let\u2019s get some of them fancy words memorised huh?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Anything you say Joe,\u2019 replied Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m in your hands.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Just remember that Hoss and you can\u2019t go wrong,\u2019 said Joe smugly. \u2018We\u2019ll have Isabelle eating out of your hands in no time.\u2019<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss gazed into Isabelle\u2019s blue eyes with a dreamy expression on his face, happy to listen as he had done for the past ten minutes while she talked on about her life. Finally she stopped and drew breath, turning to him. \u2018Well enough about me,\u2019 she said. \u2018How about you Adam?\u00a0 What are you interested in?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss took a deep breath and tried to remember Joe\u2019s instructions. \u2018Um \u2026 well I kinda like that Shakespeare fellar \u2026 I mean \u2026 writer,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n Isabelle\u2019s eye lit up. \u2018Do you?\u2019 she said excitedly. \u2018It\u2019s so nice to find a man who does!\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss grinned at her. \u2018Um \u2026 yeah,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean \u2026 yes. I specially like that\u00a0Romeo and Juliet<\/em>\u00a0one he wrote.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Oh yes! Isn\u2019t it wonderful?\u00a0 What is your favourite part?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss took a deep breath and concentrated. \u2018Um \u2026. That bit where Romeo is under her porch \u2026 I mean \u2026 balcony \u2026\u2019 he began. He screwed up his eyes momentarily as he tried to remember: \u2018What light through yonder window breaks<\/em>\u00a0\u2026 \u2018 he began.<\/p>\n Isabelle drew closer to him and put her head on his shoulder. \u2018That\u2019s lovely Adam.\u00a0 Please go on.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss puffed up and began to think that this wasn\u2019t too difficult at all. \u2018Um \u2026 tis \u2026 um \u2026 tis \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018\u00a0\u2026The measure done, I\u2019ll watch her place of stand, and touching hers, make blessed my rude hand,<\/em>\u2019 interrupted Isabelle. \u2018That\u2019s one of my favourite parts.\u00a0 Don\u2019t you just love it?\u2019<\/p>\n Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 agreed Hoss. He searched his brain for a comment. \u2018Cept that bit about the rude hand,\u2019 he added. \u2018Ain\u2019t right ta be rude no how.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle giggled. \u2018Oh you are funny!\u2019 she said. \u2018A sense of humour as well as a wonderful mind.\u00a0 You really are a treasure Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss looked pleased with himself. \u2018Thank you ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. \u2018I try.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Much and all as I love Shakespeare though, I must admit that my first love is music,\u2019 said Isabelle. \u2018Don\u2019t you just love Baroque music Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss swallowed. \u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said, wondering what one earth it was. \u2018I sure do.\u00a0 Now bout that\u00a0Romeo and Juliet<\/em>\u00a0\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n I particularly love Bach.\u00a0 Do you?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss swallowed again, wondering why on earth she was skipping from one topic to the other so quickly. \u2018I sure do, he said. \u2018Being as how we have so many pine trees on the ranch I\u2019m just naturally fond of bark.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle giggled again.\u00a0 \u2018Oh you are funny!\u2019 she said. \u2018I believe that you have a wonderful singing voice Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 said Hoss warily. \u2018Now that Romeo fellar \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n Perhaps we might be able to have a little musical soiree together?\u2019 suggested Isabelle as she snuggled in against his broad shoulder. \u2018I play the piano you know and I would love to play for you.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss smiled. \u2018That\u2019d be great,\u2019 he said, thinking that he really couldn\u2019t go too wrong with just listening.<\/p>\n \u2018Wonderful!\u2019 said Isabelle. \u2018Tomorrow at two then?\u00a0 I\u2019ll be expecting you Adam and I\u2019ll be looking forward to discussing our favourite composers together.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 said Hoss, giving her a grin and thinking of all the studying he\u2019d have to do that night.\u00a0 He sure hoped that Joe knew something about music!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u2018Music!\u2019 said Joe in an irritated tone. \u2018I thought you were going to impress her with Shakespeare!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I tried Joe,\u2019 said Hoss humbly. \u2018Honest I did! But she kept on bout music instead.\u00a0 She also likes trees though \u2026 talked about bark like she was right fond of it.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe gave his brother a strange look. \u2018Well I don\u2019t know,\u2019 he mused. \u2018Seems to me that we spent all that time learning Romeo and Juliet for nothing.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t worry about that,\u2019 said Hoss confidently. \u2018I\u2019ll work it into the conversation sometime Joe. I ain\u2019t finished with that Shakespeare fellar yet. Did you know that he wrote some rude bits too?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe nodded absently. \u2018We\u2019ll have to get our hands on some of Adam\u2019s music,\u2019 he mused. \u2018I\u2019m sure he\u2019s got some in his room. Let\u2019s go in and see if we can find any.\u2019\u00a0 He jumped up and led Hoss into Adam\u2019s room and looked around hopefully. \u2018Now,\u2019 he mused. \u2018I wonder where he keeps it.\u2019\u00a0 He opened the cupboard and searched inside for a few minutes. \u2018Ah!\u00a0 Here it is!\u2019 he said as he drew some sheet music out. \u2018I knew he had some.\u2019\u00a0 He settled down on the bed and motioned for Hoss to do the same. \u2018Now\u2019 he said confidently. \u2018Let\u2019s have a look.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss picked up a piece of music and looked at it with a puzzled expression on his face. \u2018I dunno Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018This stuff means nuthin ta me.\u00a0 I can\u2019t read music no how.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well neither can I,\u2019 said Joe as he leafed through some of the pieces. \u2018But that doesn\u2019t matter.\u00a0 All you\u2019ve got to do is memorise some of the names.\u00a0 Then you just say that you enjoy their \u2026 um melodies \u2026 and stuff like that.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Huh?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Melodies,\u2019 repeated Joe. \u2018Just remember that word.\u00a0 And there\u2019s another one you can use too.\u00a0 Harmony.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss nodded. \u2018Melodies and harmony,\u2019 he said. \u2018Anything else?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe thought for a moment. \u2018Um \u2026 well you could say that you enjoy the lilting tone of her playing. I heard Adam say that once to a girl and she looked real impressed.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Lilting tone of her playing,\u2019 repeated Hoss dutifully. \u2018What\u2019s that mean Joe?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe shrugged. \u2018I dunno,\u2019 he admitted. \u2018It sounds good though. Hey!\u00a0 Here\u2019s a good composer you can talk about.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s got lots of his music so he must be good.\u2019\u00a0 He held out the music book to Hoss who peered at it.<\/p>\n \u2018Chop \u2026 Chopp-in,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018He gave a short laugh. \u2018He\u2019s got a funny name ain\u2019t he Joe.\u00a0 Sounds the same as choppin wood! I reckon I\u2019ll remember that one.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Just what do you two think you\u2019re doing?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe and Hoss jumped at the sound of Adam\u2019s voice as he entered the room. \u2018Um \u2026 hi Adam,\u2019 said Joe, putting the music behind him and trying to sit on it.<\/p>\n Adam reached over and pulled the sheets from under his brother, giving him a dark look as he straightened them out. \u2018I asked what you were doing,\u2019 he repeated. \u2018Why are you in my room looking through my things?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018It was Hoss,\u2019 said Joe as innocently as possible under the circumstances. \u2018He insisted on coming in here and asked me where you kept your music.\u00a0 He\u2019s right interested in music, ain\u2019t ya Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n Reckon so,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Didn\u2019t think ya\u2019d mind Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Now let me get this straight,\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018First you\u2019re interested in Shakespeare and now you\u2019re into classical music composers. What is all this about?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss shrugged. \u2018I dunno,\u2019 he said. \u2018I just am is all.\u2019\u00a0 Adam continued to stare at him and he began to shuffle his feet and put his head down.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He\u2019s just embarrassed to tell you is all,\u2019 interrupted Joe. \u2018You see there\u2019s this girl that he\u2019s interested in \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Ah!\u2019 said Adam, sitting down. \u2018Now the truth comes out.\u00a0 You\u2019re interested in a girl and you\u2019re trying to impress her, is that it?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Reckon so,\u2019 muttered Hoss.<\/p>\n \u2018Well why didn\u2019t you just tell me that?\u2019 enquired Adam. \u2018I can understand that you want her to think well of you Hoss.\u00a0 The only thing is that it\u2019s usually best to just be yourself.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I can\u2019t just be myself,\u2019 said Hoss and then frowned as Joe kicked him.<\/p>\n \u2018Why not? I\u2019m sure that if you give her the chance to know the real Hoss Cartwright then you\u2019ll get on well,\u2019 insisted Adam. \u2018Who is this girl anyway?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Isabelle Morgan,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018She\u2019s new in town.\u2019<\/p>\n Adam raised an eyebrow. \u2018I\u2019ve heard of her,\u2019 he said. \u2018She sounds very \u2026 well \u2026 well-bred.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018She sure is!\u2019 enthused Hoss. \u2018She knows all bout books and music and stuff!\u00a0 I\u2019m going to a musical soiree at her place tomorrow!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I see,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018And you want to show her how much you know about music, is that it?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Sure is,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Can ya help me Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Hey!\u2019 protested Joe. \u2018What about me?\u00a0 I was helping you too!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018You?\u2019 said Adam with a short laugh. \u2018What do you know about music?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I know lots of things!\u2019 declared Joe indignantly. \u2018I know about melodies and harmony and \u2026 other stuff too.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t ferget bout them lilting tones too Joe,\u2019 added Hoss supportively. \u2018Ya know bout them too.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Yeah,\u2019 agreed Joe. \u2018I know bout them lilting tones.\u2019<\/p>\n Adam raised the other eyebrow. \u2018Well this girl sounds like she\u2019s worth a bit of trouble,\u2019 he said, to Hoss, ignoring his youngest brother. \u2018She actually sounds like someone I might be interested in myself.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t be so selfish Adam,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018Hoss saw her first and \u2026 besides \u2026 he\u2019s in love with her!\u00a0 You can\u2019t make a move on her too.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I didn\u2019t say I would,\u2019 said Adam patiently. \u2018Of course I wouldn\u2019t come between Hoss and a girl. Tell you what though Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 He put an arm around his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018I\u2019ll help you impress this girl and wish you luck with her.\u00a0 How\u2019s that?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Gee thanks Adam,\u2019 said Hoss with a grin. \u2018I\u2019m gonna do real fine with her now!\u2019<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss sat with a dreamy expression on his face as he listened to Isabelle play.\u00a0 The afternoon had gone very well so far, the only problem being his string tie which threatened to choke him at any moment.\u00a0 He fingered it for the tenth time that hour as he listened to the girl playing and when she stopped he burst into enthusiastic applause. \u2018That was great!\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018Thank you,\u2019 said Isabelle with a lovely smile.\u00a0 She stood up and came to sit next to him on the sofa. \u2018Let\u2019s talk for a while shall we?\u00a0 Which of the pieces I played did you like the best Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018They were all real fine,\u2019 said Hoss with a broad grin. \u2018I like the \u2026 um \u2026 melodies and the harmony,\u2019 he said confidently.<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t you think that Bach has the most wonderful sound?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss frowned and wondered why she kept talking about trees all the time. \u2018I ain\u2019t sure bout that,\u2019 he said. \u2018I mean \u2026 I\u2019m not too sure.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t know that bark could make a noise.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle gave him a strange look. \u2018Who are your favourite composers Adam?\u2019 she asked.<\/p>\n Hoss grinned at her, confident with all the names that Adam had made him learn. \u2018I \u2026 like \u2026 enjoy \u2026 Schubert and Handel and that Beethoven fellar,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018Ah Schubert!\u00a0 Don\u2019t you just love his songs?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I reckon,\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018He has \u2026 lilting tones.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle beamed at him. \u2018Oh \u2026 you do understand!\u2019 she gushed. \u2018I knew that you would!\u00a0 It\u2019s so lovely to meet a man who can appreciate such things Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss looked very pleased with himself. \u2018How about you perform now?\u2019 asked Isabelle. \u2018I could accompany you on the piano while you sing some Schubert for me.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss swallowed several times.\u00a0 This was a development that he hadn\u2019t anticipated. \u2018I \u2026I \u2026.\u2019 He stammered as Isabelle dragged him over to the piano. \u2018I \u2026 reckon not,\u2019 he said finally.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh?\u2019 Isabelle sounded disappointed. \u2018Why not?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well \u2026.\u2019 Hoss searched his brain for an excuse, but came up with nothing. \u2018Well \u2026\u2019 His face lightened and he clutched at his throat. \u2018I can\u2019t sing today Miss Isabelle.\u00a0 I got sort of a bad throat.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle immediately looked concerned. \u2018Oh what a shame!\u2019 she exclaimed. \u2018I suppose there\u2019ll be no hope of hearing you sing at church tomorrow then as well?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss tried to look sad through his relief. \u2018No ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m afraid not.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018But you will be at church won\u2019t you?\u2019 asked Isabelle hopefully.<\/p>\n \u2018Sure will.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018And at the picnic afterwards?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss grinned at her. \u2018Yes ma\u2019am.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be there all right.\u00a0 Wouldn\u2019t miss one of them picnics.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle waited. \u2018Perhaps I\u2019ll see you there then,\u2019 she said finally.<\/p>\n \u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 replied Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m sure you will.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle waited again. \u2018Perhaps we could go together?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss grinned at her. \u2018That\u2019d be fine Miss Isabelle,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019d like that.\u2019\u00a0 He gave her a dreamy look.\u00a0 Things were definitely going from strength to strength with this relationship that was for sure!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u2018You asked her where?\u2019 Joe spluttered into his breakfast coffee. \u2018Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n Ben put down his own cup of coffee and glared at his youngest son. \u2018And what is wrong with your brother asking a young lady to the church picnic may I ask?\u2019 he said. \u2018You and Adam are always asking girls to those events.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I know that Pa,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018But Isabelle might \u2026\u2019 he faltered as he looked across the table at Adam.<\/p>\n \u2018She might what?\u2019 asked his father.<\/p>\n \u2018Well \u2026\u2019 Joe struggled for the right thing to say. \u2018She might \u2026 well Hoss \u2026 don\u2019t you want some time alone with her?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Nah!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018I\u2019d like ta take her to the picnic.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018But Hoss!\u2019\u00a0 Joe kicked his brother under the table and indicated Adam with his fork. \u2018Think about it!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Think about what?\u2019 asked Hoss. He looked over at Adam. \u2018Oh yeah I forgot!\u2019\u00a0 He clapped his hand over his mouth in dismay.<\/p>\n \u2018Forgot what?\u2019 asked their father. \u2018Just what are you two up to this time?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018We ain\u2019t up to nothing Pa,\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018Only \u2026 only I reckon Hoss and Isabelle shouldn\u2019t come to the picnic yet.\u00a0 I mean \u2026 they hardly know each other and all.\u00a0 Don\u2019t you think he should know her a bit better before he starts going to picnics with her?\u2019\u00a0 He looked at his father hopefully, willing him to disapprove of the event.<\/p>\n \u2018I don\u2019t see anything wrong with your brother seeing this young lady at a church picnic Joseph,\u2019 said his father sternly. \u2018In fact she sounds very nice and I\u2019m looking forward to meeting her.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Me too,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018She sounds interesting.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018You keep away from her!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018You can\u2019t meet her!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Why not?\u2019 asked Adam. \u2018I have a particular interest in this young lady, seeing as how I\u2019m partly responsible for Hoss impressing her.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss went pale. \u2018What do ya mean?\u2019 he said. \u2018How did you find out?\u2019<\/p>\n Adam leant forward suspiciously. \u2018Find out what?\u2019 he asked. \u2018What am I supposed to have found out about?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Just how good looking she is,\u2019 interrupted Joe quickly. \u2018Hoss is afraid that you\u2019ll steal her away with all your charm older brother. \u2018He don\u2019t want you to get too close to her.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I\u2019ve already told you that I wouldn\u2019t dream of coming between Hoss and his girl,\u2019 replied Adam haughtily. \u2018Pa \u2026 could you please tell your youngest son \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n Ben put up his hand in defence. \u2018I\u2019ve told you boys before to leave me out of your love lives,\u2019 he said. \u2018I have no intention of interfering in any of this.\u2019\u00a0 He threw down his napkin. \u2018Now let\u2019s get going.\u00a0 We don\u2019t want to be late for church.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Or that picnic afterwards,\u2019 said Adam smugly as he gave Hoss and Joe a meaningful look. \u2018There will be a lot of people to catch up with.\u2019<\/p>\n As Ben and Adam left the table, Joe leant across and hit Hoss on the head. \u2018What did you go and do that for?\u2019 he asked. \u2018Didn\u2019t you think of her meeting Pa and Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss gave his brother an apologetic look. \u2018I never did Joe.\u00a0 What are we gonna do now?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018We\u2019ll just have to keep them away from her,\u2019 mused Joe. \u2018It won\u2019t be easy though.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Joseph! Hoss! Come along please!\u2019 their father called from the doorway. \u2018We don\u2019t want to be late!\u2019<\/p>\n Joe shrugged as he got up from the table. \u2018You\u2019d better do some praying in church brother,\u2019 he said. \u2018We\u2019re gonna need all the help that we can get.\u2019<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n As the congregation spilled out of the small church, Joe jostled his way to the front of the crowd, pulling Hoss along behind him. \u2018Hurry up!\u2019 he said urgently. \u2018We gotta get Pa and Adam outta here and on to the picnic grounds as soon as we can.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Why?\u2019 asked Hoss as he looked around for Isabelle.<\/p>\n \u2018So that they don\u2019t meet her stupid!\u2019 snarled Joe. \u2018It\u2019s easier for us to keep em apart there somewhere where there\u2019s lots of space. \u2018You get Pa and I\u2019ll get Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss nodded and went in search of his father while Joe went to seek out Adam.\u00a0 He found him emerging from the church and immediately went to stand by his side. \u2018What?\u2019 said Adam testily as he scanned the area. \u2018What do you want?<\/p>\n \u2018Just being friendly brother is all,\u2019 said Joe with a sweet smile at him. \u2018Pa ways that we gotta get going quickly to the picnic grounds, so he sent me to look for you.\u2019<\/p>\n Adam continued to scan the area. \u2018Well I don\u2019t see how he could have told you that, considering how he\u2019s still inside the church,\u2019 he said dryly. \u2018Besides, I\u2019ve got someone to meet before we get going.\u00a0 I want to check out this girl of Hoss\u2019 first.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Oh her!\u2019 said Joe with an airy wave of his hand. \u2018I don\u2019t even think she\u2019s here.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I think she is,\u2019 said Adam triumphantly as he spied a new face in the crowd. \u2018That would have to be her over there.\u2019<\/p>\n Joe pulled on his brother\u2019s sleeve. \u2018Pa said to come on!\u2019 he said desperately. \u2018We gotta get in the buggy now!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Later,\u2019 said Adam. He gave his brother a hard look. \u2018Why are you so darned determined for me not to meet her anyway?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Me?\u2019 said Joe innocently. \u2018Gee, I don\u2019t care if you meet her or not. I was just thinking of Hoss being jealous is all.\u00a0 You know me Adam \u2026 always thinking of everyone\u2019s else\u2019s feelings.\u2019\u00a0 Adam said nothing, but merely raised an eyebrow as he stepped down from the stairs and began to walk in Isabelle\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n Joe raced after him. \u2018I heard Pa calling out for us!\u2019 he said. \u2018Come on before he gets angry!\u2019<\/p>\n Adam ignored his brother and continued to make his way towards Isabelle. \u2018Holy Toledo!\u2019 said Joe, slapping his hand onto his forehead before looking around in desperation for Hoss. He spied his middle brother standing near the fence near their father who was talking to Doctor Martin and raced over to him. \u2018Hoss!\u2019 he whispered urgently. \u2018Hoss! Get over here!\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss shuffled over to his younger brother. \u2018What?\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m busy getting Pa into the buggy like ya said Joe.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Forget Pa!\u2019 said Joe as he pulled his brother towards Adam who by now was standing next to Isabelle. \u2018We gotta stop Adam!\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss took one look at his older brother and swallowed. \u2018I reckon I\u2019m dead!\u2019 he said mournfully.<\/p>\n Joe continued to pull him in Adam\u2019s direction. \u2018Never say die brother!\u2019 he said. \u2018Hi Adam!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018You again!\u2019 replied Adam as Joe wedged himself and Hoss in between Adam and Isabelle. He craned his neck over his brother\u2019s head and smiled at Isabelle. \u2018Morning ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said with a smile. \u2018I thought I\u2019d introduce myself. My name is \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Cartwright,\u2019 interrupted Joe as he turned to face Isabelle. \u2018I\u2019m Joe Cartwright ma\u2019am and this is my brother.\u2019\u00a0 He gave the woman one of his most devastating smiles.<\/p>\n Isabelle beamed at them both. \u2018Lovely to meet you both,\u2019 she said. \u2018Your brother has told me all about you both.\u2019\u00a0 She clutched hold of Hoss\u2019 arm and smiled up at him. Hoss returned the smile with a weak one of his own.<\/p>\n \u2018Well I\u2019m sure that you two would like to be alone,\u2019 said Joe quickly. \u2018Come on brother let\u2019s go.\u2019\u00a0 He clutched hold of Adam\u2019s arm and tried to pull him away, but Adam stood firm.<\/p>\n \u2018I sure hope you\u2019re settling in well to our fine town,\u2019 said Adam, ignoring Joe.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh yes,\u2019 replied Isabelle with a lovely smile. \u2018Adam has been telling all about it.\u00a0 I\u2019m sure that I\u2019ll be very happy here.\u2019<\/p>\n Adam frowned. \u2018I beg your pardon?\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018Adam has been most gentlemanly in showing me around,\u2019 replied Isabelle. \u2018He certainly knows the place well.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I see,\u2019 said Adam, his eyes narrowing. \u2018I think I\u2019m beginning to see a lot of things now.\u2019\u00a0 He gave Hoss a dark look and Hoss swallowed before giving his brother a half-hearted smile. \u2018And just what have you and \u2026. Adam been doing?\u2019 Adam asked, his jaw set.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh we\u2019ve been spending a lot of time talking about literature and music, haven\u2019t we Adam?\u2019 replied Isabelle, smiling up at Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m sure you know how much your brother knows about such things.\u00a0 He\u2019s very interested in culture.\u2019 Adam said nothing, but continued to stare at Hoss who avoided looking at him. \u2018You must be the other brother \u2026 Hoss isn\u2019t it?\u2019 asked Isabelle sweetly. \u2018Funny, but you\u2019re different to the way I pictured you.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Am I?\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Well I think that you should know ma\u2019am that \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018That we have to go!\u2019 interrupted Joe.<\/p>\n Hoss gave his younger brother a grateful look and turned with Isabelle still on his arm. \u2018I\u2019ll walk ya to ya buggy Miss Isabelle,\u2019 he said and looked over his shoulder at his brothers as they walked away.<\/p>\n \u2018So that\u2019s what you two have been on about!\u2019 said Adam, his anger spilling over as soon as Hoss and Isabelle were out of earshot. \u2018How could you!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018It weren\u2019t my doing!\u2019 replied Joe indignantly. \u2018Hoss let her think that he was you!\u00a0 She likes cultured men.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018But you went along with it!\u2019 Adam put his finger under Joe\u2019s nose in a threatening manner. \u2018If I know you Joseph Cartwright you\u2019d have been encouraging him no end!\u2019\u00a0 He looked thoughtful. \u2018Now I understand why all the interest in Shakespeare and musical composers.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Hoss only did it because he admires you so much!\u2019\u00a0 Joe tried desperately to reach his brother\u2019s conscience. \u2018He didn\u2019t mean nothing by it!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He didn\u2019t mean anything by it?\u2019 said Adam incredulously. \u2018Only took my identity and lied to that poor girl! I\u2019m going to set her straight right now!\u2019<\/p>\n Joe clutched at his older brother\u2019s sleeve. \u2018Aw come on Adam!\u201d he said. \u2018It ain\u2019t hurting none.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well it\u2019s hurting me!\u2019 replied Adam as he shook himself free. \u2018Who do you expect me to be \u2026. Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well \u2026. Yeah.\u2019 said Joe with a hopeful look at his brother. \u2018Why not?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018What?!\u2019 Adam gave his youngest brother an incredulous look. \u2018You can\u2019t be serious?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Just for a little while,\u2019 pleaded Joe. \u2018You know how hard it is for Hoss Adam.\u00a0 He needs your help.\u2019\u00a0 Adam was silent, so Joe pressed further. \u2018He\u2019s got no confidence with girls \u2026 you know that.\u00a0 This is the only way that he\u2019s gonna be able to keep Isabelle interested in him.\u00a0 What harm can it do just for a bit?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I\u2019m not going to deceive that girl any further!\u2019 replied Adam.<\/p>\n \u2018But just look at him Adam,\u2019 pleaded Joe.\u00a0 He motioned over to where Hoss was gazing up at Isabelle as she sat in her buggy.\u00a0 His eyes were glazed and his mouth was grinning widely. \u2018He\u2019s in love Adam \u2026. You can\u2019t spoil it for him!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He\u2019s in love?\u2019 replied Adam. \u2018Don\u2019t be stupid \u2026 they just met!\u00a0 Anyway, how can she love him back when she doesn\u2019t even know who he is?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Just give him a bit of time,\u2019 pleaded Joe. \u2018You said it yourself brother \u2026. She\u2019ll like him when she gets to know the true Hoss Cartwright. Can\u2019t you just be Hoss for a bit until that happens?\u2019 Adam hesitated and Joe saw his chance to push his point even further. \u2018I woulda thought that you\u2019d do anything for Hoss, seeing as how he admires you enough to want to be you!\u2019 he said triumphantly and saw with pleasure his older brother\u2019s resolve begin to falter. \u2018He admires you so much you know older brother. He ain\u2019t asking much Adam \u2026. Just for a bit of time is all.\u2019<\/p>\n Adam sighed in defeat. \u2018Only for a little while,\u2019 he muttered. \u2018That\u2019s it! If he doesn\u2019t tell her soon then I will!\u2019\u00a0 He marched over to their buggy as Joe clapped his hands in delight.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u2018So this is Isabelle,\u2019 said Ben Cartwright as he extended his hand to her and gave her a warm smile. \u2018I\u2019ve been hearing a lot about you from my son \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Adam!\u2019 interrupted Joe.<\/p>\n Ben gave him a puzzled look. \u2018Well no actually,\u2019 he said. \u2018Adam hasn\u2019t mentioned her.\u00a0 It was \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018It\u2019s a great day fer a picnic ain\u2019t it?\u2019 interrupted Hoss.<\/p>\n \u2018It certainly is son,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018Actually I was wondering if Miss Isabelle would like to join us?\u00a0 We have plenty to eat.\u2019<\/p>\n Hoss gave his father a horrified look, one that was mirrored by Joe and Adam as well. Joe opened his mouth to speak, but before he could, Isabelle replied. \u2018That would be lovely Mr Cartwright \u2026 thank you!\u00a0 It will give me the chance to get to know Adam\u2019s family.\u2019<\/p>\n Ben looked even more confused. \u2018Um \u2026 yes,\u2019 he said. \u2018Over here.\u2019\u00a0 He indicated to the spot where they\u2019d put their picnic basket under a tree and Hoss immediately walked over Isabelle over to it, followed by a very disgruntled Adam.<\/p>\n Ben caught Joe by the arm. \u2018What\u2019s all this about Adam?\u2019 he whispered. \u2018I thought that Hoss was the one interested in her?\u2019<\/p>\n Joe thought quickly. \u2018I think that she\u2019s kinda got a secret crush on Adam Pa,\u2019 he whispered back. \u2018We\u2019re all trying to help her get interested in Hoss instead but.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I see,\u2019 said Ben, not really seeing at all. \u2018And what does Adam think of all this?\u2019 He looked over to where his eldest son was glowering unhappily by the tree.<\/p>\n \u2018He\u2019s happy,\u2019 said Joe airily. \u2018He wants Hoss and Isabelle to be together too.\u00a0 Don\u2019t worry about it Pa.\u2019\u00a0 He sauntered over to join his brothers and Isabelle.<\/p>\n Ben looked to the sky and shook his head. \u2018I\u2019m trying hard to stay out of their love lives,\u2019 he muttered. \u2018But sometimes they make it so darned hard \u2026 and confusing!\u2019\u00a0 He sighed as he went over to join the group.<\/p>\n \u2018So Isabelle,\u2019 he said as they all settled themselves down to eat. \u2018I believe that you\u2019ve been seeing a lot of my son lately?\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle gave him a smile as she took a sandwich. \u2018Yes,\u2019 she replied. \u2018We have a quite a bit in common. We both love the classics and music so much.\u2019<\/p>\n Ben lifted an eyebrow. \u2018You do?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I didn\u2019t know that \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I believe that you play the piano Isabelle,\u2019 interrupted Joe quickly. \u2018My brother told me that you\u2019re very good at it.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Did he?\u2019 the girl answered. \u2018That was very nice of him.\u2019\u00a0 She gave Hoss a beautiful smile. \u2018I do enjoy it so.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018What do you like to play?\u2019 asked Adam.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh \u2026 lots of things really.\u00a0 Bach is a particular favourite of mine. I love the contrapuntal style.\u00a0 We both do \u2026 don\u2019t we?\u2019 she gave Hoss another smile.\u00a0 Hoss returned it, wondering what the word\u00a0contrapuntal<\/em>\u00a0meant and what it had to do with bark.<\/p>\n \u2018Really?\u2019 asked Adam, very interested. \u2018I enjoy listening to the Preludes and Fugues. Do you play any of them?\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle lifted an eyebrow in surprise. \u2018Why yes I do as a matter of fact.\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry, but from what I\u2019d heard of you \u2026 I didn\u2019t think \u2026 I mean \u2026 I didn\u2019t know that you\u2019d be interested in that sort of that H \u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He ain\u2019t really,\u2019 interrupted Joe. \u2018He\u2019s just trying to learn about that stuff, ain\u2019t you brother?\u2019\u00a0 He gave Adam a meaningful look and Adam returned it with a dark one of his own.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh I see.\u00a0 Well perhaps your brother could help you then,\u2019 replied Isabelle with another beautiful smile at Hoss while Ben continued to look confused.<\/p>\n \u2018Be glad to,\u2019 said Hoss magnanimously.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh you are too kind!\u2019 said Adam sarcastically. \u2018What would I do without you?\u2019 Hoss looked pleased with himself, failing to pick up on his brother\u2019s sarcasm. Adam turned to Isabelle again. \u2018And what are your other favourite composers?\u2019 he asked politely.<\/p>\n \u2018I love Beethoven,\u2019 gushed Isabelle. \u2018And of course Schubert.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Ah Schubert!\u2019 said Adam enthusiastically. \u2018Aren\u2019t his Impromptus glorious?\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle looked pleased. \u2018They are!\u201d she said. \u2018Perhaps I could play some of them sometime for you Hoss?\u2019<\/p>\n Ben looked startled. \u2018I don\u2019t think that Hoss is really interested in that sort of thing,\u2019 he said. \u2018Adam is though.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018That\u2019s right!\u2019 interrupted Joe. \u2018Adam is!\u00a0 Ain\u2019t ya Adam?\u2019\u00a0 He nudged Hoss who nodded.<\/p>\n \u2018Ben looked even more confused. \u2018But \u2026\u2019 he began.<\/p>\n \u2018Pa, ain\u2019t that Doctor Martin over there?\u2019 interrupted Joe quickly. \u2018He looks kinda lonely, don\u2019t you think?\u00a0 Maybe you should go and talk to him?\u2019<\/p>\n Ben looked over. \u2018So it is,\u2019 he said, getting up. \u2018I\u2019ll go and invite him to join us boys.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t you and Isabelle wanna go for a walk right about now?\u2019 asked Joe, giving Hoss a look as well.<\/p>\n \u2018Nope,\u2019 replied Hoss happily as he took yet another sandwich. \u2018I\u2019m happy here.\u2019\u00a0 He rubbed his ankle as Joe kicked. \u2018Oh \u2026 Yeah I guess so,\u2019 he said when the light dawned in his head. \u2018You wanna go for a walk Isabelle?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Certainly,\u2019 replied the girl, getting up and joining him. \u2018That would be lovely Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n As they walked away, Adam turned to Joe angrily. \u2018This has gone on long enough little brother,\u2019 he said. \u2018Pa must think we\u2019re all crazy and as for that poor girl \u2026\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Don\u2019t you think I didn\u2019t see you looking at her!\u2019 declared Joe, just as angrily, to deflect the attention away from the topic. \u2018You was making eyes for her in spite of what you said!\u2019<\/p>\n Adam gave his brother a frustrated look. \u2018Well you must admit that she is certainly my type and not Hoss\u2019,\u2019 he said. \u2018They have absolutely nothing in common with each other \u2026 it\u2019ll never last!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Maybe not, but you said that you wouldn\u2019t interfere!\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018You promised to help Hoss.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018And I will,\u2019 replied Adam, easily. \u2018But I don\u2019t have to like it, do I?\u00a0 One thing is for sure though little brother.\u00a0 As soon as they break up \u2026. which I can assure you that they will \u2026 I\u2019ll be interested in that girl.\u2019\u00a0 He watched his brother and Isabelle as they walked along by the lake. \u2018I could really go for a girl like that,\u2019 he mused. \u2018She\u2019s certainly my type.\u2019<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u2018Would someone please explain what was going on at the picnic yesterday?\u2019 asked Ben as they all sat at the breakfast table the next morning.<\/p>\n There was silence until Joe finally broke it. \u2018What do you mean Pa?\u2019 he asked, putting on his best innocent look.<\/p>\n \u2018You know exactly what I\u2019m talking about Joseph,\u2019 said Ben sternly. \u2018The three of you are obviously up to something.\u2019 He put up his hand. \u2018No \u2026 on second thought \u2026 don\u2019t tell me.\u00a0 Sometimes it\u2019s best not to know.\u2019 He looked around the table and noted the expressions on his three sons\u2019 faces.\u00a0 Joe looked decidedly smug \u2026 which was always a bad sign \u2026. Hoss looked blissfully happy and Adam \u2026 well Adam looked very guilty.\u00a0 Their father shook his head and continued to eat his breakfast.<\/p>\n Suddenly there was a knock at the door and they all looked at each other. \u2018Very early for someone to be calling,\u2019 said Adam.<\/p>\n \u2018Yes,\u2019 replied his father. \u2018It is.\u2019<\/p>\n The knock sounded again and they all looked at Joe who sighed as he got up from the table and went to answer it. \u2018Don\u2019t see why I always haveta do it,\u2019 he muttered under his breath as he opened the door to reveal Isabelle standing on the porch. His eyes widened in amazement at the sight of her. \u2018Um \u2026 hello,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018Hello Joe,\u2019 she replied. \u2018I hope it isn\u2019t too early to come calling.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Well, to be honest \u2026 \u2019 he began, half-closing the door as he spoke.<\/p>\n \u2018Joseph?\u00a0 Who is it?\u2019<\/p>\n His father called. Joe made a face and opened the door again. \u2018Please come in,\u2019 he said grudgingly.<\/p>\n Isabelle swept into the room and smiled at everyone.\u00a0 \u2018Good morning Mr Cartwright \u2026 Adam \u2026 Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 She tilted her head in their direction. \u2018I hope I\u2019m not inconveniencing you by calling so early.\u2019 She put her hand to her mouth. \u2018Oh!\u00a0 I\u2019m so sorry!\u00a0 You\u2019re still eating breakfast.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Not at all,\u2019 said Ben as he got up. \u2018Please join us for some coffee.\u2019\u00a0 He held out a chair for her and then seated himself. \u2018Joseph?\u00a0 Are you going to stand there all morning with your mouth open?\u2019 he asked severely, giving his youngest son a stern look.<\/p>\n Joe swallowed and said a silent prayer. \u2018Um .. no Pa,\u2019 he said and seated himself as well.<\/p>\n \u2018I came to give this to Adam,\u2019 said Isabelle as she held out some papers. \u2018It\u2019s some sheet music \u2026 some of Schubert\u2019s songs.\u00a0 I thought perhaps that you could practise them and then I could accompany you.\u2019\u00a0 She held them out to Hoss who sat and stared at them.<\/p>\n \u2018I\u2019ll take em for him,\u2019 said Joe quickly and reached for the papers, only to have them snatched from his hands by his father.<\/p>\n \u2018Now exactly what is going on here?\u2019 demanded Ben. \u2018One of you come straight out with it please!\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle looked confused. \u2018What on earth do you mean Mr Cartwright?\u2019 she asked. \u2018Have I done something wrong?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018No my dear … you\u2019ve done nothing wrong,\u2019 he replied with a smile. \u2018However I suspect that at least one of my sons has.\u2019\u00a0 He turned to them again. \u2018Well?\u2019 There was silence around the table as each of the three Cartwright boys looked at each other. \u2018I\u2019m waiting!\u2019 their father said.<\/p>\n \u2018Well Pa it\u2019s like this,\u2019 began Adam. He looked across the table at Isabelle and smiled. \u2018I\u2019m afraid that my brothers have not exactly been telling you the truth,\u2019 he said apologetically.<\/p>\n \u2018You didn\u2019t too!\u2019 declared Joe and then shrank back in his seat silently as his father cast him a withering look.<\/p>\n Adam glared at Joe as well. \u2018You were the cause of this in the first place,\u2019 he said. \u2018You be quiet!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I was not!\u2019 said Joe defensively. \u2018If anyone\u2019s to blame then it\u2019s Hoss! He\u2019s the one who said it in the first place!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018But I don\u2019t understand,\u2019 said Isabelle. \u2018Said what?\u2019<\/p>\n Adam smiled at her again. \u2018It seems that both my brothers have led you to believe that my brother Hoss is me,\u2019 he explained. Isabelle continued to look confused, so he continued. \u2018I am Adam Cartwright,\u2019 he said and then pointed to Hoss. \u2018And this is my brother Hoss.\u2019\u00a0 Hoss looked at Isabelle with a shamefaced expression and hung his head.<\/p>\n Isabelle looked around the table from one to the other, until her eyes rested on Joe. \u2018Are you Joe?\u2019 she asked. \u2018Or are you someone else too?\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Oh no ma\u2019am,\u2019 Joe assured her. \u2018I\u2019m Joe all right.\u00a0 It\u2019s just them two \u2026\u2019 he indicated his brothers. \u2018Them two who haven\u2019t been telling you the truth.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Why you little \u2026\u2019 Hoss reached over the table to grab his younger brother by the collar, but his hand was slapped away again by his father.<\/p>\n \u2018That will do!\u2019 said Ben sternly.\u00a0 He looked at Isabelle apologetically. \u2018I must say how sorry I am that all of this has happened,\u2019 he said. \u2018It seems that my \u2026\u2019 he gave his sons a withering look. \u2018\u2026 my sons have been very unfair to you. They all need to apologise to you.\u2019 He glanced around the table meaningfully.<\/p>\n \u2018I\u2019m sorry Miss Isabelle,\u2019 said Hoss immediately. \u2018I never shoulda let ya think that I was Adam.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018But why did you?\u2019 asked Isabelle, her eyes wide.<\/p>\n \u2018Well I never thought that you would be interested in someone like me,\u2019 explained Hoss. \u2018I\u2019m just a dumb old Hoss ya see \u2026. And when ya assumed that I was Adam \u2026 well I guess I just let ya.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He liked you a lot,\u2019 interrupted Joe. \u2018He\u2019s even been learning all bout books and music and stuff for you.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle nodded. \u2018I see.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He used my books and music,\u2019 explained Adam. \u2018You see Isabelle .. I\u2019m the one in the family who has the same interests as you do.\u00a0 I\u2019m interested in literature and music.\u00a0 Hoss was just pretending to be.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018I see.\u2019\u00a0 Isabelle stood up. \u2018I think I might leave now if you don\u2019t mind,\u2019 she said. \u2018I need to think about all of this.\u2019<\/p>\n Ben stood up as well. \u2018Of course,\u2019 he said kindly and began to walk her to the door. \u2018I apologize for my sons\u2019 inconsiderate behaviour Miss,\u2019 he said. \u2018They had no right to carry on so.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018That\u2019s all right Mr Cartwright,\u2019 the boys heard her say as she left the room. \u2018It\u2019s not your fault.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018You little weasel!\u2019 said Hoss as the front door closed behind them. \u2018He reached over the table and grabbed Joe by the collar who fought in vain to free himself. \u2018Making out like you wasn\u2019t involved!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Let go!\u2019 wheezed Joe desperately. \u2018I can\u2019t breathe!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Let him go Hoss,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I promise you that he won\u2019t get away with it.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018He certainly will not!\u2019 said a stern voice behind them and they all turned to see their father standing there with his hands on his hips and glaring at them. \u2018None of you will!\u2019\u00a0 He sat down at the table. \u2018Now \u2026 I want this story right from the beginning please! Who is going to start?\u2019<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ==========<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n It had been a long week on The Ponderosa, made even longer by Ben\u2019s bad humour and the fact that each of the boys had extra chores to do.\u00a0 So it was with great relief that they all fronted up to Church the next Sunday, relieved to think that the week was finally over.\u00a0 As the congregation sang the last hymn, Adam glanced across at Isabelle Morgan and was relieved to see that she returned his smile.\u00a0Yes sir!<\/em>\u00a0he thought to himself.\u00a0Now that all that nonsense is over we can start fresh.\u00a0 I\u2019m going to get to know that girl now that Hoss is no longer in the picture.<\/em><\/p>\n As soon as the singing had finished and the congregation was making its way out of the church, Adam headed straight for Isabelle. \u2018Ma\u2019am,\u2019 he said, tipping his hat. \u2018I hope you\u2019ve forgiven the Cartwrights for the misunderstanding last week. I can assure you that my brothers didn\u2019t mean any harm by it.\u2019<\/p>\n Isabelle gave him a lovely smile. \u2018I\u2019m sure they didn\u2019t Hoss \u2026 sorry, I mean Adam,\u2019 she replied. \u2018I\u2019ll have to get used to your correct name now, won\u2019t I?\u2019<\/p>\n Adam gave her a charming smile. \u2018Yes, I\u2019m sorry about that,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m sure it won\u2019t take you long though.\u2019 He leant towards her and looked into her lovely blue eyes. \u2018I\u2019d certainly like the opportunity to give you the chance to use it a lot more in the future though.\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018Pardon?\u2019 Isabelle said absently, while looking over his shoulder.<\/p>\n \u2018I\u2019d like to call on you if you don\u2019t mind,\u2019 he persisted. \u2018I think we have a lot in common and \u2026\u2019 he turned to see what she was looking at \u2026 and noticed Hoss standing near the front fence. \u2018We share the same interests I believe,\u2019 he finished, frowning at her.<\/p>\n \u2018Pardon?\u2019 Oh yes of course we do,\u2019 said Isabelle. \u2018Excuse me please for a moment Hoss \u2026 I mean Adam \u2026. But I need to talk to your brother. \u2018<\/p>\n \u2018But \u2026\u2019 Adam held onto her arm. \u2018You can\u2019t be serious!\u2019 he said. \u2018You can\u2019t still be interested in Hoss!\u2019<\/p>\n \u2018On the contrary,\u2019 she replied. \u2018It seems to me that your brother Hoss must think an awful lot of me to go to all the trouble that he did. The least I can do is give it some time to get to know the real him.\u2019 She gave Adam one of her beautiful smiles before walking over to a very surprised Hoss.<\/p>\n \u2018Lucked out there didn\u2019t you big brother?\u2019 said a mocking voice behind him and Adam turned to see Joe grinning at him. \u2018Thought you said that she wouldn\u2019t be interested in Hoss once she found out the truth? Seems that you were wrong after all.\u2019<\/p>\n Adam\u2019s frown deepened. \u2018So it would seem,\u2019 he said dryly. \u2018I still don\u2019t understand it though. She and I share the same interests after all \u2026. Hoss couldn\u2019t possibly have anything in common with her!\u2019<\/p>\n Joe shrugged. \u2018I think he has something very important in common with her that you\u2019ve missed,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n \u2018Oh? And what would that be?\u2019 asked Adam sarcastically.<\/p>\n \u2018They both share a big interest in Isabelle,\u2019 replied Joe with a grin.<\/p>\n Adam was silent for a moment and then gave a short chuckle as he threw his arm around his younger brother\u2019s shoulder. \u2018You know what kid?\u00a0 Sometimes you amaze me,\u2019 he said.<\/p>\n Joe grinned back at him. \u2018Yeah?\u2019 he said. \u2018Well its like I always say big brother \u2026 I\u2019m a pure ladies man through and through.\u2019\u00a0 He drew away as Adam\u2019s embrace became a stranglehold on his neck and the two brothers laughed together as they walked towards the Cartwright buggy.<\/p>\n Behind them Ben looked once more to the sky. \u2018I\u2019m trying Lord!\u2019 he muttered. \u2018I really am!\u2019\u00a0 He shook his head as he followed his sons to the buggy.<\/p>\n The End<\/p>\n