{"id":3119,"date":"2011-04-23T23:12:36","date_gmt":"2011-04-24T03:12:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3119"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:23:28","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:23:28","slug":"the-bully","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3119","title":{"rendered":"The Bully (by Fozrulz)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Joe and Ellie are beat up by a bully.\u00a0 What to do, what to do….. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span>\u00a0K+ (11,060 words)
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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 The Bully<\/strong><\/div>\n
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Joe and Ellie<\/strong> entered the school yard. Ellie immediately starting looking for her best friend Marybeth and Joe was looking for his best friends, Mitch Devlin and Michael Cummings. Ellie spotted Marybeth and ran over to her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh Marybeth,\u201d she said brightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth was frowning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s a matter, Marybeth?\u201d Ellie asked following Marybeth\u2019s eyes. Marybeth was watching Tommy Mayfield pushing on Josiah Wells, Josiah was only 6. Ellie remembered Tommy, he was really mean to her on her very first day of school. Even though she was 10, she remembered it like it was yesterday. He had hauled her out of his seat and told her she was a \u201cdope\u201d and the babies didn\u2019t sit there. She starting fuming just thinking about it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTommy Mayfield is pushing the little kids around again. You see, he\u2019s pushing Josiah around. Josiah told me Tommy\u2019s been taking his lunch in the morning before school.\u201d Marybeth said worriedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t Josiah tell someone? Ms. Jones or his mama?\u201d Ellie asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s afraid it will get worse. Look at how big Tommy is, he\u2019s a year younger than Joe, Michael and Mitch, yet he\u2019s taller and bigger. He probably outweighs Michael by 50 pounds and Michael \u2018s a half a head taller than Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie nodded. \u201cWell, I\u2019m not gonna have it.\u201d she stormed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave what?\u201d asked Marybeth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHave that big bully push poor little Josiah around. If he took Josiah\u2019s lunch, I\u2019m gonna make him give it back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth just laughed at her friend, \u201cEllie, are you crazy, Tommy must weigh 100 pounds more than you. Let\u2019s just go get Ms. Jones.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, Marybeth, Ms. Jones won\u2019t do nothin\u2019. Not if she don\u2019t see it. You know that.\u201d Ellie scoffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie,\u201d Marybeth warned, \u201cdon\u2019t get involved, he\u2019ll hurt you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care, it ain\u2019t fair. Poor Josiah, I know how mean that Tommy is. Besides papa always says to help those smaller and weaker and Josiah is smaller than me.\u201d Ellie said her green eyes clouding with anger. She stormed over to Tommy and Josiah.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait, Ellie, who\u2019s going to help you?\u201d Marybeth called. Marybeth turned to scan the yard for Michael, Joe and Mitch. They were hanging out by the big oak tree in the yard. Marybeth ran over to her brother and his friends. \u201cJoe, Ellie is about to get herself in trouble.\u201d Marybeth said breathlessly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at Marybeth, \u201cWhat\u2019d ya mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s gone over to Tommy Mayfield to make him give Josiah his lunch back.\u201d Marybeth said pointing toward the determined figure of Ellie walking toward Tommy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that girl\u2019s gonna drive me crazy. Why can\u2019t she go saving some poor defenseless animal instead of taking on Tommy Mayfield?\u201d Joe looked toward Ellie. Joe started to move toward Ellie, but he could tell he was too late.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy had put Josiah\u2019s lunch on the ground and looked like he was going to pound the little boy. Ellie crept up behind Tommy and was about to shove him, when Ms. Jones rang the school bell. Ellie slipped her hand around Josiah\u2019s lunch pail and sauntered into the school house. Tommy didn\u2019t even realize it was gone until Ellie was in the school house. Tommy entered the school house and saw Ellie hand Josiah his lunch back. She smiled her most winning smile at Tommy as she took her seat next to Marybeth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth leaned over to Ellie and whispered, \u201cEllie, you\u2019re crazy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie smiled at Marybeth and whispered, \u201cGot his lunch back didn\u2019t I?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ms. Jones rapped her ruler on the desk. \u201cMarybeth and Eleanor, do you have something to share with the class?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth and Ellie looked up guiltily, \u201cNo, ma\u2019m.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen I suggest you stop whispering.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes ma\u2019m.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The other children were snickering. Ms. Jones fixed them all with a steely glare. The class quieted down immediately. The rest of class progressed until recess, Ms. Jones rang the bell. \u201cOk children, everyone outside for recess.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie could feel Tommy Mayfield burning a hole in the back of her head with his eyes. She wasn\u2019t sure what to do. She decided the best thing to do was stick with Joe. She whispered to Marybeth, \u201cJoe, Michael and Mitch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth immediately got her drift. Marybeth grabbed Ellie\u2019s hand and hauled her toward Joe, Michael and Mitch. Tommy was waiting outside, but Joe, Michael and Mitch surrounding the girls as they exited the school house. Tommy was fuming. Tommy moved to stand in front of Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute Cartwright.\u201d Tommy growled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want something, Tommy?\u201d Joe said his hackles rising.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think that lil sister of yours owes me something?\u201d Tommy growled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs that a fact,\u201d said Joe. \u2018Heh, Sissy, do you owe Tommy anything?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no Joe, I don\u2019t know what he\u2019s talking about.\u201d Ellie said sweetly.<\/span><\/p>\n

At this point, Michael, Marybeth and Mitch couldn\u2019t contain themselves any longer. They all burst out laughing. Tommy was infuriated. He clenched his fists and moved toward Joe. Michael and Mitch moved to be in line with Joe. Joe was the smallest out of the group, Michael and Mitch were much more a match for Tommy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Surrounded by his friends, Joe said, \u2018Listen Tommy, just forget it. You had no business taking Josiah\u2019s lunch anyway.\u201d Just then Ms. Jones rang the bell for them to return to the classroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t always have your friends with you Cartwright.\u201d Tommy said, the hate burning in his eyes stalking off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned to Ellie, \u201cWhoo wee Sissy, you had to make Tommy Mayfield mad?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright, you know you would have done the same thing, except you\u2019d probably have gotten in a fight.\u201d Ellie challenged him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled, \u2018Yeah, your right. Come on, let\u2019s get inside. I don\u2019t want Ms. Jones keeping us after school for being late. Pa\u2019d be mad.\u201d he said as he pulled Ellie into the school house. The children slid into their seats, just as Ms. Jones closed the door to the school room.<\/span><\/p>\n

The children watched the clock until noon, they couldn\u2019t wait to get outside during lunch. As soon as Ms. Jones rang the lunch bell, Ellie headed over to Josiah. She put her hand out smiling, \u201cCome on Josiah, you can eat with us.\u201d Joe waited for Ellie and Josiah along with Mitch, Michael and Marybeth. There was no way Tommy would take them all on.<\/span><\/p>\n

The group sat under the oak tree chatting and laughing. Josiah looked with wonder at the big kids he was with. He didn\u2019t have any older brothers or sisters. He was the oldest, his brothers and sisters weren\u2019t even in school yet. He felt very protected. He thought, this is how I\u2019m gonna be when I get big. I\u2019m gonna watch out for the little kids. Ms. Jones rang the bell on the half hour and the children trooped back into the school, the incident all but forgotten, but not by everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

The bell rang signaling the end of school for the day. The entire group of friends headed for the stables. They all mounted up saying their goodbyes. Michael and Marybeth headed for the FiveStar. Mitch, Joe and Ellie headed toward the road to the Ponderosa and the Devlin\u2019s place.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you and Ellie are going to need to be careful for the next couple of days. Tommy sure was mad. I\u2019d make sure you ain\u2019t by yourselves for a few days.\u201d Mitch warned Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAw Mitch, I ain\u2019t afraid of Tommy.\u201d Joe scowled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know Joe, but he\u2019s twice your size. He\u2019s almost big as Hoss and he\u2019s only 14.\u201d Mitch said shaking his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll be fine, Mitch, really.\u201d said Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mitch just shook his head as he turned toward the Devlin ranch at the fork. \u201cIf you say so, see you here tomorrow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you don\u2019t really think Tommy\u2019s gonna do anything, do you? After all, all I did was take back Josiah\u2019s lunch. Nobody would have ever known, if he hadn\u2019t made such a fuss.\u201d Ellie said. She was a little worried, Tommy was a whole lot bigger than Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, Sissy. Don\u2019t worry, it\u2019ll be fine. Come on, we better shake a leg or we\u2019re gonna be late. I\u2019d rather face Tommy than face Pa if we\u2019re late again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie laughed ruefully, \u201cAin\u2019t that the truth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Just then, Tommy stepped out in front of Blackie. \u201cIs that a fact Cartwright, well now\u2019s your chance.\u201d he sneered as he pulled Joe off his pony. He threw Joe down to the ground. Joe got up and hit Tommy with a left hook. Tommy punched Joe in the face, knocking him to the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie jumped off of Windy. She charged Tommy yelling, \u201cLeave him alone, leave him alone, you big bully!\u201d She jumped on him her fists flailing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy tossed her off like she was a rag doll. Ellie landed with a thud on the ground. She wasn\u2019t moving. Tommy dusted off his hands gave Joe a swift kick in the ribs and jumped on his horse and took off. \u201cThis is just the beginning, Cartwright.\u201d he said as he took off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe got to his knees and crawled over to his sister. He rolled her toward him. He saw a cut above her eye that was bleeding and the back of her head was bleeding, she must have hit her head on a rock. \u201cSissy, sissy, wake up!\u201d Joe begged.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie stirred. Joe was flooded with relief. \u201cSissy, you ok?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie laid there for a minute, \u201cI feel like I can\u2019t breathe so good.\u201d she choked out. Joe looked at her laying there. Her dress was torn, her hair was out of its braid, and her face was filthy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust lay there for a minute, he probably just knocked the wind out of you.\u201d After a few minutes, Ellie sat up, her head spinning. \u201cSissy, you think you can ride? We need to get home afore it gets too late and we have to tell Pa why we\u2019re late.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoy Joe, my head sure does hurt.\u201d Ellie said rubbing her head. Joe touched the back of her head. She yelped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think you gonna have a knot. Come on, let\u2019s get on home before we\u2019re too late.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at Joe, \u201cJoe look at us, we\u2019re a mess. I think Papa is gonna be asking a bunch of questions and when he finds out we\u2019ve been fighting, we are in a bunch of trouble. I don\u2019t think being late is gonna matter.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe helped Ellie up on Windy and then went to mount Blackie. His ribs were aching something fierce. He groaned as he pulled himself up on Blackie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Joe, what\u2019s a matter.\u201d Ellie said looking at her brother, her face masked in worry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think my ribs must be busted. Come on.\u201d said Joe as they headed toward home. It was a long slow ride home. With Joe\u2019s ribs and Ellie\u2019s head hurting, Joe wanted to make sure neither one fell off their horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, the clock was chiming 4:30. Pa looked at the clock and shook his head. This was the second time this week, the children were home late and it was only Wednesday. Unbelievable, he thought. Those two were going to make him old before his time and people wondered why he was almost completely white.<\/span><\/p>\n

The door opened and Hoss walked in. \u201cJoe and Ellie home yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoes it look like their home yet?\u201d Pa said irritably.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, no sir, want me to go fetch \u2018em?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026\u2026\u201d Pa started. He heard the horses in the yard. Pa went out to the yard to admonish them for being late, yet again. He took one look at Joe slumped over Blackie and saw the pain etched in Ellie\u2019s face. He ran to them calling for Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, Hoss, come out here, I need you, Joe and Ellie are hurt.\u201d Pa yelled frantically. Pa reached Joe first, Joe slid off his saddle right into Pa\u2019s arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s big frame moved across the yard in a couple of strides and reached Ellie. \u201cWhat happened Princess?\u201d Hoss asked as his strong arms reached for his little sister. Ellie held her arms out for Hoss and promptly fainted into Hoss\u2019 arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked at Pa, Pa looked at Hoss. \u201cLet\u2019s get them settled in their rooms. Then get one of the hands to go for the doctor. I\u2019ll get Hop Sing to help me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss carried Ellie into her room and laid her on the bed. Hop Sing was already there clucking about with water and rags, ready to clean her up. Hoss left Ellie in Hop Sing\u2019s care and headed down the stairs to send someone for the doctor. Adam practically knocked him over when they opened the door at the same time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s the fire?\u201d asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie and Joe came home late from school. They\u2019s all beat up. I\u2019m going to send someone for Doc Martin.\u201d Hoss explained as he headed out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Adam practically yelled. He ran up the steps two at a time. He reached Joe\u2019s room first. He found Pa hovering over a moaning Joe. \u201cPa,\u2026\u201d Adam started.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, go help Hop Sing with Ellie. I\u2019ve got Joe.\u201d Pa said turning toward Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam ran into Ellie\u2019s room. Hop Sing had already cleaned Ellie up and changed her into her nightgown. She looked so small and vulnerable laying there in that big bed. Adam went to her side and held her hand. Adam noticed the cut above her eye started to darken into a bruise. He stroked her hair with his other hand. \u201cEllie, baby, wake up. Come on Ellie, wake up for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie stirred. She heard Adam\u2019s voice, but she didn\u2019t want to move because her head hurt so bad. \u201cHurts, Adam.\u201d she croaked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know baby, let me give you a drink of water.\u201d Adam said as he put a glass of water to her lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie opened her eyes to see her big brother in front of her with the glass of water. Ellie took a few sips and tried to settle back into her pillows. \u201cOw!\u201d she exclaimed reaching for the back of her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet me see,\u201d said Adam gently moving his hand toward her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d she waived his hand away, \u201cIt hurts. Adam, is Joe ok, he said his ribs were busted.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s with him now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie started to get up, \u201cI need to see if he\u2019s ok, it\u2019s all my fault anyway.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam pushed her back on the bed, \u201cOh no, little girl, you\u2019re not going anywhere until Doc Martin says you can.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, I\u2019m fine. Let me up!\u201d she said sullenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam had to laugh, she sounded just like Little Joe. He was always and forever telling everyone he was fine when he wasn\u2019t. Adam looked at her his eyes turning dark, \u201cI said no Ellie and I mean it.\u201d He crossed his arms over his chest and looked at his little sister. She shot him a dark glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam heard footsteps on the stairs. He heard Doc Martin\u2019s voice in the hallway. \u201cEllie, I\u2019m going to go check on Joe. I think Doc Martin is here. If you get out of bed, I\u2019m going to give you a swat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just glowered at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul Martin walked into Joe\u2019s room. \u201cHi Ben, how\u2019s the boy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh Paul, I think he\u2019ll live, but I think he has a couple broken ribs.\u201d Pa said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi there, young man, let\u2019s take a look.\u201d Paul said stepping toward Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUncle Paul.\u201d Joe greeted the doctor glaring at him. \u201cI\u2019m fine, you can leave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d his father warned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Joe, let\u2019s get that shirt off and take a look.\u201d Paul said smiling as he reached for Joe\u2019s shirt, he was used to Joe\u2019s attitude about doctoring. Joe was fine with doctoring as long as he wasn\u2019t the one being doctored.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe crossed his arms over his shirt and shot Doc Martin a glare.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa started to open his mouth, but Paul laid a hand on his arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, we can do this the hard way or the easy way. The easy way is to take off that shirt and let me have a look. The hard way is to let your father have a little talk with you and then take off that shirt and let me have a look. Now, what\u2019s it going to be young man?\u201d Paul asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe got the implication of the \u201clittle talk.\u201d He started to shrug out of his shirt. He winced in pain. Pa leaned over and helped him the rest of the way out of his shirt. Paul examined Joe and looked up at Ben, \u201cBen, he has two broken ribs, I\u2019m going to bind them and I want him to stay in bed for a couple of days.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He turned to Joe, \u201cI want you to drink this medicine, it will make you sleepy, you won\u2019t wake up until the morning. This will keep you still so your ribs can start mending.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head at Paul. \u201cI don\u2019t need it I\u2019ll be just fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa stepped in this time. He was getting tired of the disrespect that was coming from his youngest son. \u201cJoseph, you will do exactly as Paul tells you. I know you hurt and you don\u2019t feel well, but that is no reason for being disrespectful. You can do as he says or your ribs won\u2019t be the only thing sore. Do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d Joe eyed his father warily as he took the glass of medicine from Paul and drank it down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll sit with him until he falls asleep,\u201d said Adam who had been standing in the doorway watching. He thought Ellie was going to need a little strong arming herself and best to leave Pa to that.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul closed up his bag and headed down the hall to Ellie\u2019s room. He opened her door, \u201cHi angel, how do you feel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine Uncle Paul, I want to go check on Joe.\u201d Ellie said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, honey, I gave him something to sleep. But he\u2019s going to be just fine. I want to take a look at you.\u201d Paul said smiling down at her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d she repeated crossing her arms over her chest and shaking her head no. Paul just had to laugh, she looked just like Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa and Paul could see the pain in her eyes as she shook her head. Pa thought that this was getting wearisome. Why couldn\u2019t he just have one compliant child, just one? \u201cEleanor, let the doctor look over you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNope! I\u2019m fine.\u201d she glared at her papa and Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked at her incredulously, \u201cELENAOR GRACE CARTWRIGHT, did you just tell me no?\u201d he thundered his face turning red.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie didn\u2019t mean to tell her papa \u201cNo\u201d, it just kinda popped out. Uh oh she thought. She looked down at her blanket. She didn\u2019t know what to say. She knew she had crossed the line big time. She knew that no matter how you felt or what was going on, you never ever told papa, \u201cNo.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa took a breath, \u201cListen to me young lady and listen real good. I\u2019m going to tell you what I just told your brother. If you don\u2019t do exactly as Paul tells you, your head won\u2019t be the only thing sore. Do I make myself clear?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir\u201d Ellie said in a very small voice. Ellie let Paul examine her. He probed that very painful spot on the back of her head. She winced.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell Ben, she has a pretty good knot on her head, the pain will lessen as the knot goes down. I\u2019m going to give her some of the same medicine I gave Joe. I want her to stay in bed for the next couple of days.\u201d Paul said handing Ellie a similar glass of medicine to the one he had handed Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie started to shake her head no, but one look from her papa stopped that and she took the glass and drank the medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see myself out, Ben. Make sure those two stay in bed.\u201d he said chuckling, knowing that request was not so easily granted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Paul.\u201d Pa said shaking his hand. \u201cI\u2019m going to sit here will Ellie until she falls asleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at her papa, \u201cPlease papa, I just want to see Joe.\u201d she pleaded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor Grace!\u201d papa growled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie sighed deafeatedly as she sank into her pillows and started drifting off to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss had come to check on both children. He had checked with Adam and Joe was now sleeping. He moved down the hall to Ellie\u2019s room, \u201cPa, you want me to sit with her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo thank you son, I\u2019ll stay until she is completely asleep. Why don\u2019t you go have Hop Sing heat up some supper, I\u2019ll be down soon.\u201d Pa said as he held his baby\u2019s small hand in his big one.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa headed down to get some supper after Ellie had fallen asleep. On his way down, he stopped in Joe\u2019s room to make sure Joe was sleeping. He touched his oldest on the arm, \u201cCome on son, he\u2019ll be asleep for awhile, let\u2019s go get some supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men headed down the stairs. Hoss was already sitting at the table packing away some of Hop Sing\u2019s roast chicken. \u201cPa, you know what happened?\u201d Hoss asked between mouthfuls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, for heaven\u2019s sake don\u2019t talk with your mouth full.\u201d Pa admonished.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed, \u201cUm..yes sir, sorry Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, to answer your question. Neither Joe nor Ellie told me what happened. I suppose it will have to wait until morning.\u201d Pa said shaking his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Ellie said it was her fault.\u201d Adam supplied.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa raised his eyebrows questioningly, \u201cReally? I guess we\u2019ll have to wait to find out.\u201d he said surprised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk,\u201d said Adam, \u201cwho get\u2019s who on the first shift?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

They all laughed at that. They all knew that the children would have someone sitting with them all night, lest they wake up and need someone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss said, \u201cI\u2019ll go sit with Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam volunteered, \u201cI\u2019ll go sit with Ellie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell boys,\u201d said Pa, \u201cI guess that leaves me with the second shift. Let me know if you need anything. I\u2019ll leave my door open.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The three men trooped off upstairs to take their assigned positions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie woke up some time in the middle of the night. Oh my Lord, she thought me head really hurts. She saw Adam slumped over in a chair next to her bed fast asleep. She smiled, now was the perfect time to go check on Joe. She swung her feet over the side of her bed, she got a little dizzy and steadied herself with her hand. She tip toed around Adam and opened her door. Just as she opened her door, she felt a stinging swat to her bottom. She whirled around to face her big brother. \u201cWhat\u2019d you do that for?\u201d she hissed rubbing her bottom.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI told you I\u2019d give you a swat if you got up. Just where do you think you\u2019re going?\u201d Adam said angrily. \u201cYou\u2019ve been told to stay in bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see Joe,\u201d Ellie said defiantly stamping her foot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor Grace, I\u2019m going to give you another swat if you don\u2019t get back in that bed right now.\u201d Adam said with his hands on his hips.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s my fault he\u2019s hurt Adam, I have to see if he\u2019s alright.\u201d she said her eyes tearing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t need to have any light in the room to know that Ellie had started crying. Even in the dark, all he needed was to hear her quavering voice. Adam walked over to his sister and drew her into his arms. \u201cEllie, he\u2019s going to be fine, Doc Martin said he only has to stay in bed a couple of days. And it isn\u2019t going to help him if you don\u2019t stay in bed and get better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, you\u2019re always telling me what a hard head I have. It\u2019s just a little bump. Ad.. Ad.. Adam, I think I\u2019m going to be sick,\u201d Ellie gulped as a wave of nausea descended upon her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grabbed the bowl from the washstand just in time. When Ellie was done emptying her stomach, Adam wiped her down and put her back in bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

About this time, Pa burst into the room, \u201cWhat\u2019s going on in here?\u201d he demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Pa, your baby girl here decided to get out of bed, she got a swat for her trouble. She got a little dizzy and just threw up.\u201d Adam said reciting the facts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d Pa said. \u201cEleanor?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSir?\u201d she said weakley.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou will not get out of bed without MY permission. Is that understood?\u201d Pa ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I believe it\u2019s my shift. You go on to bed. I think I\u2019ll just make sure Eleanor stays in bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam just smiled, he knew Ellie wouldn\u2019t dare disobey Pa, with him sitting right there. \u201cG\u2019night.\u201d he said as he headed for his bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

The rest of the night passed peacefully. Ellie stayed in bed under the watchful eye of her papa and Joe was sound asleep with Hoss snoring loudly from the chair beside him.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning proved to be trying for everyone. Joe and Ellie were fit to be tied, they both wanted out of bed. Pa had been reduced to threatening them with his belt if they didn\u2019t stay in bed. By mid-morning, both children had worn themselves out fussing and were fast asleep. Hoss, Adam and Pa stood out in the hall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure I\u2019m going to survive both of them being in bed.\u201d muttered Pa. \u201cWell, at least now they\u2019re sleeping.\u201d Pa had slipped a little medicine in their hot cocoa. He was now assured that Joe and Ellie would at least sleep for a few hours. He turned to the boys, \u201cWell, let\u2019s get moving so we can get some chores done around here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both Adam and Hoss were in agreement. They all headed downstairs and out the door to at least get the basis chores done. Hoss and Adam headed for the barn. \u201cYou know Adam, we still don\u2019t even know why they came home all beat up.\u201d Hoss remarked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m hoping Pa let\u2019s Ellie up after she wakes up, so she can go see Joe. Once she knows how he is, she probably spill the story. That\u2019s if we can bear all the details.\u201d Adam smirked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie woke up after a couple of hours, she felt much better. Her head only hurt if she moved it. She figured she could go check on Joe and get back in bed before anybody heard her and she wouldn\u2019t get sick if she didn\u2019t move her head too much. She pulled back her covers and swung her legs over the bed, a wave of dizziness struck her. Determined, she let the wave pass and then stood to her feet gripping her bed post. She took a deep breath, well this isn\u2019t so bad she thought. She tip toed to her door, opened her door to look down the hall, the coast was clear. She headed to Joe\u2019s room at the other end of the hall. She pushed the door open and Joe was lying in bed. \u201cJoe, Joe, are you ok?\u201d Ellie asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

His eyes fluttered open. \u201cHeh, Sissy, yeah I\u2019m fine. How about you?\u201d Joe asked groggily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my head hurts something awful, but I\u2019m fine. Joe, did you tell Papa what happened yet?\u201d she asked nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, if he knows he\u2019ll go see Tommy\u2019s pa and then all he\u2026, I mean heck would break loose.\u201d Joe shook his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, I better go back to my room, before Papa comes up here.\u201d Ellie\u2019s head was bent toward Joe so she could hear him well. She had no idea that her papa was down stairs and had heard her open her door. He was standing in the doorway when she turned around to sneak back to her room. She caught one look at her Papa\u2019s eyes. Those brown eyes of his were almost black. He was very angry. She couldn\u2019t remember the last time she saw him that angry and he wasn\u2019t talking which was even worse. She\u2019d rather him be yelling than just standing there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cELEANOR GRACE CARTWRIGHT, WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?\u201d he thundered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just stood there. She was scared to death. He had promised her he was going to use his belt on her if she got out of bed. She just stared at the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cELEANOR?\u201d Pa thundered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, I just had to check on Joe. It\u2019s all my fault he\u2019s hurt! I\u2019m sorry, Papa. I\u2019m sorry I disobeyed you!\u201d Ellie pleaded as the tears were dripping down her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa softened a bit. It broke his heart that his daughter was so worried about her brother. He was very grateful that her concern for him was so vast that she couldn\u2019t rest until that she saw he was ok for herself. Then again, she was very disobedient at risk for her own health. He thought, that talk can wait a minute. He held his arms out to her. She flew into his arms still sobbing, \u201cSorry, papa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShush baby, I know you needed to check on Joe.\u201d He carried her to the chair and settled her in his lap. \u201cNow you two, I want to know what happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Ellie just sat there, neither one of them saying a word. Both of them were staring at the floor. Pa took a deep breath, \u201cNo one is moving from this room until I get an answer.\u201d The children weren\u2019t saying anything. Pa was getting angry. He picked Ellie up off his lap and sat her on the bed. \u201cLook at me both of you, NOW!\u201d he said angrily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Ellie tore their eyes from the floor and looked at their father, but neither spoke a word. Pa had had just about enough. He stood up and unbuckled his belt. Before he could slide that belt out of the loops, Ellie said, \u201cPapa\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, Tommy stole Josiah\u2019s lunch and I got it back and Tommy got mad at school and everyone laughed and then we avoided him at school and we left and he was waiting at the fork and he hurt Joe and I jumped on him and he threw me off and\u2026\u2026\u201d Ellie finished in one breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa was shaking his head, he had a hard time understanding those one breath explanations of hers. He wasn\u2019t quite sure he got the story. \u201cSlow down, Ellie, I didn\u2019t quite get all that.\u201d Joe just rolled his eyes, he just knew things were going to go from bad to worse.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie took a deep breath. She slowly explained with every possible detail of the events that had transpired throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked at his youngest boy, \u201cJoseph, do you have anything to add?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir, not really. But Pa, please don\u2019t go see Tommy\u2019s pa, it\u2019s just going to make things worse around school. Please Pa.\u201d Joe begged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Joseph. I can\u2019t abide a bully like Tommy Mayfield beating up my son and throwing my daughter around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell Pa, Ellie did jump on Tommy. I mean, it\u2019s not like he went after her.\u201d Joe ventured.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa\u2019s eyes narrowed at him. Joe shrank back just a bit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, please let me handle this.\u201d Joe begged. \u201cI mean how would it look if at 15, my Pa\u2019s still trying to take care of every little fight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about your sister?\u201d Pa said evenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think Tommy would go after her, I mean jeez Pa, she\u2019s a girl. He never made one move toward her at school. He only talked to me.\u201d Joe explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, son, if I let you handle this, how are going to do it?\u201d Pa questioned intrigued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, aren\u2019t you always telling us that there is reason people are mean? People become bullies because of their circumstances? That means people might be nice, if someone just showed them a kindness?\u201d Joe said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa nodded his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe just need to figure out why Tommy is so mean.\u201d Joe finished.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, how are you going to do that?\u2019 Pa asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure Pa, I\u2019ve got to think on it.\u201d Joe responded shaking his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlright son, I\u2019ll give you a week from Monday, when you will be able to go back to school. If it isn\u2019t resolved by then, I am going to speak to Mr. Mayfield. Is that understood?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d said Joe relieved.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa turned to Ellie, \u201cUnderstood?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d she said shaking her head. Ellie started to get dizzy, moving her head around was not a very good idea. She winced as she reached for the back of her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa noticed that pained expression and scooped her off the bed. \u201cAnd you, young lady are going back to your bed and if you don\u2019t want your bottom to be as sore as your head, you will not get out of bed without permission.\u201d With that, Pa carried her back to her room and put her to bed. He stopped by Joe\u2019s room on the way down stairs, \u2018\u201dAnd don\u2019t you move from that bed, young man.\u201d Pa said as he fastened his belt buckle. Joe took note of the fact Pa was still wearing his belt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d Joe promised.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa descended the stairs to find Hoss and Adam sitting in the great room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell Pa, did you find out what happened?\u201d Adam inquired.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it took a little threatening.\u201d Pa gave small smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019d ya mean, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam smiled a little to himself, he knew Pa\u2019s belt trick. \u201cBelt, Pa?\u201d Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa just nodded his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked horrified, \u201cPa, you took a belt to them in the condition they\u2019re in?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, son, relax.\u201d Pa snickered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at Hoss, \u201cHoss, how many times while we were growing up did Pa start to unbuckle his belt, and then we would spill our guts and tell him everything he wanted to know before he took that belt off?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yeah.\u201d said Hoss visibly relieved.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Pa what happened?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa filled Adam and Hoss in on the situation with Tommy Mayfield.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked uneasy, \u201cPa, I here tell that Tommy\u2019s pa is barely getting by. You know, Mr. Mayfield lost his wife and other son to influenza a few years back. I wonder if Tommy is stealing lunches because he\u2019s just plain hungry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know son, I don\u2019t know.\u201d Pa said thoughtfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

That evening found Adam and Pa reading in the great room. Hoss was restless. He didn\u2019t really want to read, had no one to play checkers with, and was just plain bored. \u201cI think I\u2019ll just go check on them youngins,\u201d he said as he headed up the stairs. He really wanted to talk to Joe about Tommy Mayfield. He couldn\u2019t stand the idea of that big boy beating up his little brother again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u201d, Pa\u2019s call stopped his middle son in mid stride.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSir?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t stay too long, they need to rest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t Pa, I just want to check on \u2018em.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa smiled. He knew that Hoss was a fierce protector of his baby brother and baby sister. Pa felt confident that Hoss would find a reason to take the children to school or home or be nearby for the next few days to ensure that nothing happened.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss turned to go up the stairs. He reached Joe\u2019s room first. He tapped on the door, \u201cHeh, Joe, you awake?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was sitting in bed with his head back against the pillow. \u201cYeah, I can\u2019t stand it. These four walls are closing in on me. Did Pa say I could get up?\u201d he asked hopefully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNope, sorry lil brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scowled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI bet he lets you up tomorrow.\u201d Hoss said reassuringly, \u201cSay Joe, I want to talk to you about Tommy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about him?\u201d Joe eyed Hoss suspiciously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, just maybe I can kinda understand him. Ain\u2019t he as big as I was at that age?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, if not bigger. He looks full grown. He\u2019s probably got a good 50 pounds on me.\u201d Joe said nodding his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Adam said that he heard that Tommy\u2019s ma and brother died of influenza a few years back and his Pa ain\u2019t doing\u2019 to well.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you know Joe, it ain\u2019t easy bein\u2019 big like Tommy and everyone teasin\u2019 him all the time. Them other kids, they tease him, don\u2019t they?\u2019 Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I guess,\u201d Joe said eyeing Hoss, he wasn\u2019t sure what Hoss was getting at.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd he ain\u2019t the smartest feller is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, what\u2019d getting\u2019 at? Just say it plain.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when I was his age, I just felt big and dumb at school. That\u2019s why I begged Pa to let me just work on the ranch instead of being in school. It was something I was good at and could be proud of. Maybe Tommy feels that way and that\u2019s why he\u2019s mean. Only maybe he ain\u2019t found what he\u2019s good at. And maybe he takes other kids lunches cuz his Pa cain\u2019t afford nothin\u2019 else.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well you didn\u2019t go around beating up other kids or stealing their lunches.\u201d Joe said caustically.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Joe, I was mad a lot of the time, but I had the ranch to work out my anger on. Pa taught me from the time I was younger than Ellie to work out the anger instead of fight because I might hurt someone if I got mad. Me being so big and strong and all. Maybe Tommy\u2019s pa ain\u2019t taught him that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe thought about what Hoss was saying. Hoss hardly ever got mad. Joe was sure to stay out of the way when he did and he was glad that anger was rarely directed at him. He thought about the times that Hoss was mad at him, but Hoss would go chop wood or plow into some other chore, Hoss never took his anger out on Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you could be right Hoss, I never thought of it that way. Pa\u2019s always saying that a lot of anger in folks comes from circumstances and if you just show them a kindness, sometimes the anger goes away.\u201d Joe said thoughtfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, lil brother, have you figured out how to solve this little problem, afore Pa goes and talks to Tommy\u2019s pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm\u2026I think so, but I need your help and Ellie\u2019s. Let\u2019s go talk to Ellie.\u201d Joe said as he tried to jump out of bed. He gasped in pain and fell back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss put his big hand on Joe\u2019s chest. \u201cWhoa there Joe, Pa ain\u2019t said you could get out of bed, you best just wait until tomorrow. It\u2019ll give you some time to think on it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was breathing heavily, \u201cMaybe you\u2019re right Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss chortled a little and turned down the light, \u201cG\u2019night lil brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Joe said as he sunk into his bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for helping me figure it out.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour welcome, lil brother, your welcome.\u201d Hoss said as he shut the door and headed down to check on Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie\u2019s door was slightly ajar. \u201cHeh, princess.\u201d Hoss said as he knocked on her door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, Hoss.\u201d Ellie said glumly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s a matter, princess?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, if Pa don\u2019t let me out of this bed, I\u2019m gonna go crazy. It ain\u2019t fair, I can get up.\u201d she stated hotly. To prove her point, she flung off the bed clothes, swung her feet to the floor and stood up. The she faltered and grabbed the bed post.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss grabbed her before she could fall and put her back in bed. \u201cSure, princess, sure, yous as fit as a fiddle, ain\u2019t you?\u201d he said grinning.<\/span><\/p>\n

She stuck her tongue out at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, if Pa catches you doing that he\u2019s gonna come in here and give you a swat, no matter if your head hurts or not.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoing what?\u201d asked Adam as he pushed the door open.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLil missy is sticking her tongue out again.\u201d Hoss laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTsch, tsch, Ellie, that\u2019ll get you a swat.\u201d Adam said shaking his head with laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care!\u201d Ellie declared petulantly, \u201cI\u2019m going crazy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going to care young lady, when you bottom is as sore as your head.\u201d Adam said still laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou sound just like papa.\u201d Ellie pouted. \u201cWhatcha doing up here anyway?\u201d she asked her eyes just simmering.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Adam coughed into his hand, \u201cI brought your favorite book to read, but if you\u2019d rather\u2026..\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA Christmas Carol,\u201d Ellie said hopefully, her anger temporarily forgotten.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe very same, I was going to read it to you, but\u2026.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWith all the voices of the ghosts\u201d she asked. She absolutely loved when Adam read to her. Even at 10 years old, it was one of her very favorite things in the whole world.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head. \u201cDo you want me to read?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo more trying to get out of bed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie scowled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, ok.\u201d she grumped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo more sass?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She nodded, \u201cPlease Adam, please stay and read.\u201d she begged.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam laughed as he scooted her over on her bed. Ellie laid her head on Adam\u2019s chest and Adam put his arm around her and read until she fell asleep. He didn\u2019t even get to the ghost of Christmas past. She was fast asleep. He was extricating himself from her to leave, when he looked up and saw Pa standing in the doorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa was just smiling. He felt so warm inside. He loved to see how Adam had a tender side with Ellie that he didn\u2019t show often to others. He marveled at how those two so far apart in age, yet are so close. He thought for a moment at how close his children were. He was so grateful.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came to stand with him at the door. \u201cYou certainly looked pleased Pa, what\u2019s up?\u201d asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa just put his arm around Adam and brought him in for an uncharacteristic hug. \u201cJust thinking about how much I love you son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked away slightly embarrassed, but let his father hug him for a moment and he returned the hug, \u201cI love you too, Pa, I love you, too.\u201d Adam said as he moved away and headed down the hall to his own room.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next two days were interminable, trying to keep Joe and Ellie in bed was nearly impossible. Finally, on Sunday, Pa let them out of bed to go to church. The family gathered together at the breakfast table. Pa looked at his two youngest, \u201cWe are going to church and then straight home. There will be no running, no hollering, no misbehavior, no complaining, no whining, and no asking to do anything but come home after church. Is that understood?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Ellie looked at their Pa. \u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss excused themselves to get the buggy. Pa looked at Joe and Ellie, \u201cYou two are excused.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked outside, Ellie looked at Joe. \u201cIt just figures.\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat figures, Sissy.\u201d Joe whispered back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe finally get to leave our rooms and we\u2019re stuck going to church. Of all the boring places to go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I\u2019d rather go anywhere else. Heck, I\u2019d rather go back to school. But at least we have the ride to church and back, which is better than nothing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I guess so.\u201d Ellie agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

The trip to church was uneventful, but it gave time to Joe for him to explain his plan regarding Tommy to Ellie. Ellie listened to Joe and smiled. Wow, she thought, that makes perfect sense. She hoped it would work.<\/span><\/p>\n

The family reached the yard at the church. Ellie stood up a might too fast and wavered. She didn\u2019t have anything to grab on to. She started to fall and just as she started Pa turned around to catch her in his strong arms. \u201cWhoa there young lady, I think you are moving a bit fast.\u201d Pa said chuckling as he set her on his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

She smiled briefly at her papa. \u201cMay I go sit with Marybeth?\u201d she inquired, her eyes hopeful. She loved her family, but she had just about had enough pampering. She really needed a break from papa\u2019s orders and admonishments. She knew it was a long shot, she was usually made to sit right next to papa in church. He claimed it was the only way he could keep her fidgeting to a minimum.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no ma\u2019m, you are going to sit right next to me.\u201d Pa said shaking his head no.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease\u2026\u201d Ellie wheedled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa\u2019s eyes started to cloud over. He really hated when the children whined. \u201cEleanor, do you remember what I said before we left the house about whining?\u201d he asked in a voice that Ellie knew not to contradict.<\/span><\/p>\n

The three boys were watching this exchange. Hoss and Adam knew Pa\u2019s patience was wearing thin with trying to keep the children in bed. Pa had all the whining he could handle and his nerves were frazzled. Even Joe knew Pa was on the edge of full blown fit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I think the service is about to start. Come on Ellie.\u201d Adam grabbed her hand and walked toward the church. Adam had Ellie sit between him and Hoss. Joe sat between Adam and Pa. Pa looked over at Adam gratefully, he needed a break as much as Ellie did. Adam gave him a wink.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie was beside herself. Her head hurt, she was dizzy and she was fidgeting like crazy. Adam had already given her two warnings with a threat of a swat if there was a third time. She was hot, she was dizzy and she felt like she was going to throw up. She pulled on Adam\u2019s shirt sleeve. \u201cAdam\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

He gave her a look that would have melted ice. \u201cSit still\u201d he hissed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked down at his baby sister, he noticed that she was pale and he could see tears forming her eyes and start to drip down her face. He changed quickly from irritation to worry. He leaned over, \u201cSick?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She nodded miserably. He touched Pa on the arm. Pa glanced his way and saw Adam pointing to Ellie. Pa noticed the tears right away. \u201cSick\u201d mouthed Adam. Pa motioned for Ellie to come to him. She crawled over Adam and Joe. The Prentiss\u2019 in the front pew turned around and gave them a nasty glance. Pa ignored them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie reached her papa gratefully and climbed on his lap. Pa whispered, \u201cOutside?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie nodded. Wordlessly Pa got up and carried her outside to the fresh air. He carried to a bench sitting outside the church. Ellie was really crying by the time they got outside. \u201cEllie, if you have a meltdown you are going to feel worse. Just try and breathe in and out, deep breaths.\u201d Papa said stroking her hair with his free hand, while is other hand supported her back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie breathed in and out, in and out, in and out until she was calm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened baby?\u201d Pa asked her tenderly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Papa, I just got hot and dizzy, and felt like I was going to throw up. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d she breathed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing to be sorry for. I think it\u2019s about time we go home.\u201d Pa said as he saw the figures of his three sons coming toward him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, Pa, is she ok?\u201d Hoss asked as he ran to where Pa was sitting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh Hoss, she\u2019ll be just fine. I think just a bit too much today.\u201d Pa said smiling a little.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss reached for his little sister, she reached her arms up for him and put her arms around his neck. \u201cCome on Princess.\u201d Hoss said as he carried her toward the buggy. Pa and Joe loaded up in the buggy and Hoss sat Ellie down next to Pa. Ellie laid her head in Pa\u2019s lap and they took off for home. By the time they got home, Ellie was fast asleep. Hoss dismounted and came to take her from his father\u2019s arms. \u201cI\u2019ll take her up, Pa.\u201d Pa smiled gratefully at his middle boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked at Joe, \u201cYou\u2019re looking a little green around the edges, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, I\u2019m fine Pa.\u201d Joe said wincing as he got down from the buggy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa came to put his arm around his son, \u201cSure you are boy, sure you are. Go on upstairs and lie down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa..\u201d Joe started to whine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Pa warned. \u201cYou can go up and rest or I can give you some of the medicine Paul left and then you can go rest. You can come down for supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe just looked at his father, resigned to his fate, he headed for the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie woke up a couple hours later and wandered down stairs. Her papa was sitting in his chair reading the newspaper. Ellie walked over to his chair and tugged on his sleeve. He moved over and made room for her to sit with him in his chair. Ellie was very small for her age and was still able to sit in his lap. He pulled her into his lap. She rested her head on his chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa was holding her, one arm around her back, and his other hand on her face. He enjoyed their closeness for a few minutes. \u201cEllie, did you have something on your mind?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, I was just wondering what Joe said about Tommy Mayfield.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh and what did he say.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe said that maybe Tommy hadn\u2019t found something to be good at yet and that\u2019s why he\u2019s being mean and maybe his papa can\u2019t afford more food and that\u2019s why he\u2019s stealing lunches.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa just nodded his head. \u201cAnd?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Papa, what\u2019s Joe mean Tommy hadn\u2019t found something he\u2019s good at? What does that have to do with being mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled, Hoss must have talked to Joe. He had this conversation with Hoss many times. \u201cWell, I used to tell Hoss as he was growing up that he was going to have to find something to do when he got mad because if he got mad and started throwing punches he might really hurt someone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCuz, he\u2019s so big and strong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. And what Hoss realized is that he\u2019s real good at chores or work on the ranch and that when he gets real mad, he\u2019ll find a hard chore to do. That way he can work through being mad. Do you understand?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie shook her head no.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, the work is hard and takes effort, you know physical effort, the kind that when you\u2019re done makes you kind of tired. When you work hard, you become good at what you\u2019re doing and then you feel good when you\u2019re finished. It helps you forget about being mad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d she said. She sat up on her papa\u2019s lap and looked him in the eye. \u201cBut, Papa how does that help Joe not get beat up by Tommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I think that Hoss might talk to Tommy and tell him what I taught Hoss growing up. Maybe Tommy\u2019s papa hasn\u2019t taught him that yet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I understand.\u201d she said as she slipped off her papa\u2019s lap. She reached over and gave him a kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa was a little surprised, \u201cWhat was that for?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor just being the kind of papa that would teach us stuff like that.\u201d she said. \u201cPapa, may I go outside. I\u2019ll just stay on the porch and sketch some. Please?\u201d she asked pleading.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose, if you promise to stay on the porch, not one foot in the yard, understand?\u201d Pa chuckled a little. His baby was getting to be such a big girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPromise,\u201d she said as she picked up her pad and pencils and headed outside. She was sketching the yard, the barn, the chicken coop and the chickens when Adam walked up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, little princess. Do you have permission to be out here?\u201d he asked eyeing her sketch.<\/span><\/p>\n

Exasperated she answered, \u201cYes, Papa said I could come out as long as I didn\u2019t move off the porch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa opened the front door, \u201cAdam, Ellie, Hop Sing said supper will be ready soon. You two need to wash up. Adam, go find Hoss first.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, Pa.\u201d said Adam<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Joe?\u201d asked Ellie, \u201cI can run get him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa put a hand on her shoulder, \u201cNo, you will not run anywhere. Go wash up in the kitchen, I\u2019ll go get your brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie started to scowl and thought better of it, she didn\u2019t want to get stuck in her room again. \u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa turned to go in the house and headed up the stairs. He tapped lightly on Joe\u2019s door. Joe was fast asleep. Pa hated to wake him, but Joe had missed lunch. Pa shook him just a little, \u201cJoe, Joe, time for supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joes eyes snapped open. \u201cOh, hi Pa, I guess I was more tired than I thought.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa smiled down at him, \u201cHi, yourself young man, I guess you were tired. Well come on, Hop Sing is putting supper out and if we don\u2019t get down there, he\u2019ll be grumbling about \u201clate, ungrateful\u201d family.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe just laughed as Pa helped him up and they headed down the stairs for supper. By the time Pa and Joe got to the table, the rest of the family was sitting at the table. Pa and Joe took their seats. They all bowed their heads as Pa said grace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, did you have an idea about Tommy Mayfield?\u201d Pa asked as he passed his biggest son the roast pork.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up, \u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCare to share, son?\u201d Pa said smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss and me came up with a really good idea.\u201d Joe said beaming.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss and I\u201d, Adam corrected.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I said,\u201d Joe scowled at Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d Pa shot Adam a warning glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam shrugged his shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnyways Pa, Hoss figured that Tommy just ain\u2019t learned to um\u2026.what do you call that when you try and do something so you don\u2019t think about something else?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRedirect, channel?\u201d supplied Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, thanks Adam. Redirect. Like Tommy ain\u2019t learned to redirect his anger to something else like Hoss did when he was younger. Hoss is gonna talk to him about redirecting it to a punching bag like those fellers that practice boxing. Hoss is gonna talk to Clem at the livery about giving Tommy a job after school, so maybe he could make extra money and maybe if they had extra money, he wouldn\u2019t be hungry no more for lunch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, well, that sure sounds like a fine plan.\u201d Pa said proudly. \u2018But, I think this is going to wait one more day. You won\u2019t be going back to school until Tuesday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAw pa, aw papa\u201d they chorused.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa fixed them with a glance so fierce, the children immediately quieted down and finished their supper.<\/span><\/p>\n

That evening found them all in the great room. Hoss and Joe were playing checkers. Ellie was sitting with Adam while he read \u201cA Christmas Carol\u201d to her and Pa was reading the newspaper. Finally, Pa thought a nice quiet evening, everyone where they should be. The clock chimed 8:00. \u201cBed time.\u201d Pa said to his two youngest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie started clenching her fist, her whole body stiffened. \u201cPapa, Adam\u2019s just getting to the part of the ghost of Christmas present. Please?\u201d she wheedled.<\/span><\/p>\n

A storm passed through Pa\u2019s eyes. He sure was tired of arguing with these children. Adam noticed Pa\u2019s dark look immediately. \u201cTell you what Ellie, you go change for bed and I\u2019ll read one more chapter to you in bed. Ok, Pa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPlease Papa, I promise to go right to sleep.\u201d Ellie begged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose so.\u201d Pa conceded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s ribs hurt enough that he really didn\u2019t mind going back to bed. \u201cG\u2019night everybody.\u201d Joe said as he headed off to bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be up in a little while to check on you.\u201d said Pa.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a while, Pa headed up the stairs to check on all of his children. He opened Joe\u2019s door to find the blankets on the floor and Joe curled up on his side. Pa smiled, he replaced the blankets as he tucked Joe in and gave him a kiss on the head. He headed down to Ellie\u2019s room, her head was on Adam\u2019s chest and both were fast asleep. He gently tapped Adam on the arm. Adam woke with a start. Pa pointed to Ellie. Adam very quietly laid Ellie down and covered her up. Pa reached over and gave her a kiss. He motioned for Adam to head on to his room. Adam nodded and headed for the door. Pa quietly closed her door and headed for his middle son\u2019s room. Hoss was laid out, sound asleep. Pa adjusted his covers and dropped a kiss on his forehead. Pa then made his way to Adam\u2019s room. Adam hadn\u2019t even changed into his night shirt. He was sound asleep on his bed. Pa covered him up and laid a kiss on his brow. Pa relaxed and reveled at the scene before him. It sure was a blessing when all his children were home and sleeping in their beds. My word, he thought, they sure look like angels. Contentedly, he headed for his own bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning, the three older Cartwrights were sitting at the breakfast table. \u201cPa,\u201d asked Hoss, \u201cyou want me to get them youngins up?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no son, let them sleep. It\u2019s going to be hard enough trying to keep those two quiet today. I\u2019ll have a better chance the longer they sleep.\u201d Pa grinned wryly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you mind if I head to town. I want to try and get Clem over at the livery to help me make that punching bag for Tommy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cChores first son, then go on. I want you back by early afternoon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d, Hoss hurried off to finish his chores. Once finished with his chores, Hoss headed into town. He headed for the livery stable. He talked to Clem about how to make the bag and how to keep the bag from breaking apart when it got hit. With that task done, he headed toward the school house. He knew that is was about noon and the children would be coming out for lunch. He spotted Tommy Mayfield. Hoss walked into the school yard and headed for Tommy. Tommy looked up and saw the big man coming toward him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t you Cartwright\u2019s brother?\u201d sneered Tommy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYep, name\u2019s Hoss\u201d said Hoss, \u201cI wanna talk to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh cuz that yellow bellied brother of yours cain\u2019t fight for himself?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNaw Tommy, I don\u2019t want to fight ya boy, I just want to talk to ya.\u201d Hoss said shaking his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy advanced toward Hoss with his fists up. Hoss just grabbed him by the collar and gave him a little shake. \u201cIs this how ya talk, boy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy glared at him. \u201cOk\u201d said Hoss, \u201cyou listen and I talk. Tommy, I know its hard being a big guy like you. Heck, I\u2019s bigger than you when I was 14. My pa taught me real early that folks like you and me can hurt other folks real bad if we cain\u2019t control our temper. I know that other kids tease you and mebbe you don\u2019t like school none and its just hard.\u201d Hoss paused. He noticed Tommy relaxed and was looking at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTommy, if I let you go, will you stay and listen?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy just nodded his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, so what my pa taught me was to work off my mad. You know, like iffin\u2019 I was to get mad at Joe, I just go chop some wood or do something that helps me take the mad out. Ya know what I mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy nodded, \u201cI ain\u2019t living on no fancy ranch. I ain\u2019t got anything to do like that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, \u201cI knowd Tommy, so Clem down at the livery stable said he\u2019s set up a punching bag in the stable for you and when you gets mad you just go down there and punch that bag. Clem also said he\u2019d pay you $.50 a day to help him out. He could use some one after school. You could make ya some extra money.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy\u2019s eyes lit up. \u201cI don\u2019t know. I don\u2019t knowd if my Pa would let me.\u201d he shook his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTommy, just ask him. I bet if he knowd you was doing something good with your time and making a little money to boot, he might just let you. I knowd my Pa would let Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The bell rang signaling the children to go back into school. Hoss grabbed Tommy\u2019s arm. \u201cTommy, leave Joe and Ellie alone, ok. They was just trying to help Josiah. They weren\u2019t trying to be mean to ya.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy hung his head, \u201cSorry. I\u2019ll tell \u2018em I\u2019m sorry. Hoss, are they ok? I mean I kinda tossed \u2018em around.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss patted him on the back. \u201cYep, they\u2019s fine, be back in school tomorrow.\u201d Very pleased with the way things turned out, Hoss headed for home. He sighed, Joe\u2019s hide should be safe, at least from Tommy Mayfield. Hoss reached the yard and found Joe and Ellie sitting on the porch. Ellie was sketching and Joe was reading one of them dime detective novels. Hoss chuckled, Pa must have been desperate if he was letting Joe read that detective stuff. Pa didn\u2019t approve of that detective nonsense as he called it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe spied Hoss coming into the yard. As Hoss was tying Chubb up, Joe jumped up to greet Hoss and fell right back in his chair gasping. Hoss laughed, \u201cWhoa little brother, you ain\u2019t ready to do no jumpin\u2019 yet.\u201d as he steadied his little brother. He tossed a glance toward Ellie as she started to get up. \u201cSit down princess before you fall down.\u201d He walked over to her and gave her a kiss on the top of her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell Hoss,\u201d she demanded, \u201cHow\u2019d it go with Tommy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Joe said, \u201cHow\u2019d it go? Did you talk to him? Did you set up the punching bag? Is Clem gonna give him a job?<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss smiled. \u201cWhoa, one question at a time. Yeah, I talked to Tommy and Clem. Clem set up the punching bag and said he\u2019d let Tommy work at the livery and Tommy\u2019s gonna check with his Pa to see if he can work for Clem after school. That about cover it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Ellie looked up at Hoss grinning. \u201cLove you Hoss\u201d said Ellie reaching up to give him a big hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks brother,\u201d said Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa opened the front door to find Ellie hugging Hoss and Joe thanking him. \u201cI guess things went well in town, son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, they did, they surely did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk you three, you better get washed up for supper.\u201d Pa said smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning found all the children at the breakfast table, much to Pa\u2019s surprise. \u201cWell good morning.\u201d Pa said pleased with everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning.\u201d all the children said.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the eggs, bacon, and toast got passed around, Pa looked at his youngest two. \u201cJoe, Ellie, I\u2019m allowing you to go to school today. If either one of you feel poorly at all, let Ms. Jones know and she will send someone to let me know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa\u2026Yes, Papa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, I don\u2019t want either of you riding, so either Adam or Hoss can take you to school.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAwww, Pa\u2026.Aww, Papa\u2026.\u201d Joe and Ellie whined simultaneously.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked at them with a steely glare. Ellie and Joe wisely stifled their whining quickly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, Pa, let me take \u2018em.\u201d Hoss offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine, fine, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Ellie were anxious to get to school. They had been cooped up in the house for days. The two ate quickly and asked to be excused. Pa nodded his head in approval. Hoss excused himself and the three headed for the buckboard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I\u2019m a little worried Tommy is gonna still be mad.\u201d said Ellie nervously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, princess it\u2019ll be ok. That\u2019s why I offered to bring ya to school, so I can just make extra sure what I told Tommy yesterday sunk in that head of his.\u201d Hoss reassured her. Hoss hitched up the buckboard and helped Ellie in. Joe climbed in and they took off for Virginia City.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they approached the school yard, Hoss saw Tommy hanging around the entrance. Hoss stopped the buckboard and lifted Ellie out as Joe jumped out. Tommy approached the three.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUmmm, Hoss, my Pa said it\u2019d be ok if I work at the livery and I already seen that punching bag.\u201d Tommy said with his hat in his hand. Joe, Ellie, I\u2019m sorry for, um well\u2026.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie walked up to Tommy and put her hand on her arm, \u201cOh its ok Tommy, sorry I jumped on you like that. Say, you want to have lunch with us. Hop Sing packs me such a big lunch, I never eat it all. If you come share with me, I might actually get to go home and not get fussed at for not eating my lunch. What\u2019d say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy blushed, \u201cSure Ellie, that\u2019d be real nice.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss just laughed to himself. Oh boy, was the little girl going to be trouble when she gets older.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe just looked at Tommy blushing, \u201cCome on Tommy, Sissy go see Marybeth or something, we don\u2019t want to be hanging around no girls.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss smiled as the three children walked off into the school yard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
Disclaimer:<\/span>\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/span><\/div>\n
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<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0Joe and Ellie are beat up by a bully.\u00a0 What to do, what to do….. \u00a0<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0K+ (11,060 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":93,"featured_media":375,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[7,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3119","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-prequels","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1500,"today_views":1},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/coming-soon-5.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":3160,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3160","url_meta":{"origin":3119,"position":0},"title":"Will She Ever Mind? (by Fozrulz)","author":"Fozrulz","date":"May 15, 2011","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Pa is wondering if Ellie is ever going to learn to mind? \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (6,425 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":3124,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3124","url_meta":{"origin":3119,"position":1},"title":"The Circus (by Fozrulz)","author":"Fozrulz","date":"April 24, 2011","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Ellie, Joe, Marybeth, and Michael get into some trouble when the circus comes to town. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ \u00a0WC \u00a07000","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/frontporch.jpg?fit=439%2C305&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":3164,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3164","url_meta":{"origin":3119,"position":2},"title":"Sure as Shootin’ – Part 1 and 2 (by Fozrulz)","author":"Fozrulz","date":"May 18, 2011","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe and pesky little sisters and guns - not a good combo. \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (10,585 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/bonanza2.jpg?fit=720%2C475&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/bonanza2.jpg?fit=720%2C475&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/bonanza2.jpg?fit=720%2C475&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/bonanza2.jpg?fit=720%2C475&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":3149,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3149","url_meta":{"origin":3119,"position":3},"title":"Priscilla’s Comeuppance (by Fozrulz)","author":"Fozrulz","date":"May 1, 2011","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Priscilla sure was a pain....payback time...but by whom? 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