{"id":3160,"date":"2011-05-15T23:54:13","date_gmt":"2011-05-16T03:54:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3160"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:25:24","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:25:24","slug":"will-she-ever-mind","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3160","title":{"rendered":"Will She Ever Mind? (by Fozrulz)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Pa is wondering if Ellie is ever going to learn to mind? \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span>\u00a0K+ (6,425 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 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Will She Ever Mind?\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
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It was Sunday morning,<\/strong> time for everyone to get ready for church. Pa, Adam and Hoss were already sitting at the breakfast table. Pa was eyeing those two empty seats as he did many mornings, the seats of the two youngest Cartwrights. Pa was starting to fume. Adam and Hoss exchanged amused glances. This was almost a daily ritual with Joe and Ellie. Pa would be just about on the verge of total frustration and the children would make their way down for breakfast, showing up just in the nick of time to avert a lecture. Ellie would slide over to her father, fling her arms around his neck and give him a kiss and a hug and all the wind would be knocked out of his sails. But this morning, it seemed that the children were off in their timing, Hoss and Adam didn\u2019t think the children would make it in time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, Pa, I\u2019m sure them youngins will be down any second now.\u201d Hoss said trying to soothe his father\u2019s ruffled feathers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Joe\u2019s probably just trying to help Ellie with one her hair ribbons or something.\u201d ventured Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa glared at both of them, \u201cIf they don\u2019t get down here and eat breakfast, we\u2019re going to be late for church. Hoss, go see what\u2019s taking them so long.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss started up the stairs and met Joe on the top landing. Joe shook his head at Hoss. \u201cShe\u2019s in one of them moods big brother, I wouldn\u2019t be going in there if I was you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s a matter, Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBeats, me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked meaningfully at Joe, \u201cWell, you best get down there and eat breakfast, Pa ain\u2019t too happy right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head knowingly. If Pa wasn\u2019t in a great mood, he\u2019d better be on his best behavior. He was planning on asking Pa if he and Michael could go fishing after church. \u201cMorning, sir\u201d he greeted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you\u2019re late.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Joe sighed, \u201cPa, Ellie is in one of them moods. I just couldn\u2019t get her to get dressed and come down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss tapped on Ellie\u2019s door. She didn\u2019t offer for him to come in. He pushed her door open and found her sitting on her bed, with her foot swinging off the side. \u201cEllie, Pa\u2019s waiting downstairs, you best get dressed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNope, not going!\u201d she said sticking her chin out and crossing her arms across her chest.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss knew that obstinate look on his little sister. \u201cCome one Ellie,\u201d Hoss coaxed, \u201cyou don\u2019t want any swats afore you go to church.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss sighed. He just wanted to have a nice peaceful day. The family was planning on church, then a picnic lunch and them Pa promised him he could go fishing with Matt and Mark Cummings. Pa wasn\u2019t going to be in any mood to allow any fishing if any of the children was misbehaving. Hoss picked up his 7 year old baby sister and sat her on her feet in front of him. \u201cEllie, you sick?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen how come you ain\u2019t getting ready for church?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot going!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just sat there glaring at Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, get dressed now!\u201d growled Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor Grace Cartwright, if you don\u2019t get yourself dressed right now, I\u2019m gonna to give you a swat.\u201d Hoss threatened.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at him out of the corner of her eye. He looked serious. She\u2019d probably crossed the line with Hoss. She didn\u2019t know why she didn\u2019t want to go. She just didn\u2019t want to go to church. Church was so boring. She had to sit perfectly still or Papa would give her a swat when they got home. She\u2019d gotten swats on the last four Sundays. That hour in church was the longest hour of the week. Glaring at him, Ellie started to dress. Without speaking, she turned her back to Hoss so he could help her button her dress. She ran the brush through her long hair and turned to face Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss said, \u201cWell, my, my Ellie you do look pretty as a picture. Come on princess.\u201d She gave him small smile. He took her hand and led her down to breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked up from his chair, grateful that Hoss had gotten Ellie dressed and down at the table with a minimum of fuss. Pa started to admonish her for being late, but the admonishment died in his throat as Ellie threw herself at him with a hug and a kiss. That little girl sure knew how to play her Papa like a fiddle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Papa.\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHurry up and eat your breakfast, we need to leave in 15 minutes for church.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Papa\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa and Ellie loaded up in the buggy and the boys saddled up their horses and headed for church, the lateness at breakfast virtually forgotten. Pa listened to the children chattering away. Adam and Hoss were talking about fishing up on Lake Tahoe for the afternoon. Joe and Ellie were talking about having a picnic with Michael and Marybeth\u2019s family. Pa was very content, he lived for these moments when all was at peace with all four of his children. Pa pulled the buggy into the church grounds. Pa jumped down and turned to pick up Ellie and put her on the ground. Ellie shook her head and held her arms out to Hoss. Pa just smiled, there were days when Ellie only wanted Pa, days she only wanted Adam, and days she only wanted Hoss. He guessed this must be Hoss\u2019s day. Hoss reached his arms out to his baby sister and swooped her down to the ground. She reached for his hand to walk with him into church. Hoss was all puffed up. He knew his sister usually preferred Pa or Adam. But, there were those days when all she wanted was him. Hoss felt like he was the most important person in her little world on those days.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they walked into church, the Cartwrights entered their pew. Pa usually made Joe sit on one side and Ellie sit on the other side of him. He could keep their fidgeting to a minimum if they were right by his side. He motioned for Ellie to come sit next to him. She shook her head. Pa\u2019s eyes flashed with impatience.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss noticed the exchange, as he still was holding Ellie\u2019s hand. \u201cPa,\u201d he said whispering, \u201cLet me keep her, she\u2019ll be a good girl with me. Ain\u2019t that right, Ellie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie nodded her head in agreement. So, they sat down. Ellie, Hoss, Adam, Joe and Pa, in that order. Somewhere toward the middle of the service, Ellie climbed in Hoss\u2019 lap. She leaned her head back on his chest. Even though Hoss was only 17, he was almost as broad as Pa. His broad chest just fit her head perfectly. Pa looked over and saw Ellie sitting on Hoss\u2019 lap. He just smiled. At least she was being fairly still, quite an accomplishment for her. Finally, the service was over and the Cartwrights met up with the Cummings.<\/span><\/p>\n

The families were very close. The children were close in age. Both Ben and Aaron were ranchers. The Cummings had five children and the Cartwrights had four children. The oldest Cummings boy, Andrew was the same age as Adam. The middle Cummings boys, Matt and Mark were a year older than Hoss. The youngest Cummings boy was the same age as Joe and the youngest Cummings, Marybeth was a year older than Ellie. The only real difference is that the Cummings still had their mama, Liza. The families headed for the picnic site on the Ponderosa. They had chosen to go picnic at beautiful site beside Lake Tahoe.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the men pulled out blankets and spread them on the ground. Liza, picked up the food and started placing it on the blankets. Between the basket she packed and the basket Hop Sing sent, there was probably enough food for at least ten more. Then again, considering that food was suppose to feed both families, including Hoss, Matt and Mark, she wasn\u2019t sure they would have enough.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe, Michael, Marybeth, and Ellie were playing tag not too far away. Liza looked at Hoss hovering near the food. \u201cHoss,\u201d go tell the children we are ready to eat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked up, \u201cUm..yes ma\u2019m.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She called the rest of the men to the blankets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, you youngins, it\u2019s time for lunch.\u201d Hoss called. The children were laughing, playing and generally ignoring him. He supposed that maybe Ellie didn\u2019t hear him on account of her hearing loss, but he wasn\u2019t sure. He walked over to wear they were playing. He caught each one as they ran past him. He grabbed each one by the waist and set them down in front of him. He told each one, \u201cLunch is ready, now!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After a chorus of \u201cAww, Hoss, we was having fun.\u201d The children ran over to the blankets to have lunch. Hoss just chuckled as he made his way back to the blankets.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa and Mr. Aaron blessed the meal and they dug in with gusto. As lunch was progressing, Joe looked at Michael and Michael looked at Joe. They nodded to each other. This seemed as good a time as any to ask about going fishing. \u201cExcuse me, Pa?\u201d ventured Michael.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Michael?\u201d Aaron shot Michael a questioning glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe and Joe\u2019d like to go fishing today after the picnic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked over the boy\u2019s heads at Ben and winked. He put on his serious face. Ben had to turn away so he wouldn\u2019t laugh. \u201cWell Michael John, I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Michael\u2019s face was crestfallen. Anything starting out with \u201cMichael John\u201d usually wasn\u2019t good. He was racking his brain for whatever he had done to deserve being called \u201cMichael John.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs your homework done for the week?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cChores done for the day?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMind your ma and your brothers this week?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, then I guess I ought to let you go fishing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Michael breathed a sigh of relief. \u201cThanks, Pa!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s assuming Mr. Ben let\u2019s Joe go.\u201d his father said gravely.<\/span><\/p>\n

Michael looked at Joe\u2019s Pa with pleading eyes, \u201cPlease Mr. Ben, can Joe go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked from Michael\u2019s pleading eyes to Joe\u2019s pleading eyes. \u201cPlease Pa,\u201d begged Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Just for effect, Pa looked like he was going to shake his head no, but said \u201cI think that would be just fine.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Both boys breathed a collective sigh of relief.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron and Ben looked over the boy\u2019s heads and just winked at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan we go now?\u201d the boys asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute boys, you still got your church clothes on.\u201d said Liza.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no m\u2019am,\u201d said Joe, \u201cwe both brought our regular clothes to change into and our fishing poles, in case Pa was to say yes.\u201d The boys dragged their clothes out and went behind the bushes to change.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, can we go?\u201d asked Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked at Aaron, who nodded his head. \u201cYou boys, can go, but be home before supper. Understand?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, home before supper.\u201d the boys said in unison as they jumped on their horses and took off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked at his father. \u201cUm Pa, you knowd me and Mark and Matt was gonna go fishing today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know son, that\u2019s fine, go on, we will clean up and head for home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie had been watching this whole exchange. She didn\u2019t want to go home. She wanted to stay with Hoss. \u201cHoss, can I go with you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Uh, oh Hoss thought. He didn\u2019t think she\u2019d still by clinging to him, since she had Marybeth. He looked at Pa for help and Pa just shook his head laughing. \u201cWell, princess, not this time. See here, I\u2019s going with Mark and Matt. It won\u2019t be no fun for a lil gal like you.\u201d Hoss explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie got a dark look in her eye, she crossed her arms over her chest, \u201cI wanna go with you Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss looked at Pa desperate for help. Pa just stood there with a smile on his face. It was infuriating. By the grace of God, Ms. Liza came to the rescue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, why would you want to go fishing, when you could come to our house and see the new kittens in the barn and maybe we can even make cookies?\u201d asked Liza looking down at Ellie\u2019s scowling face.<\/span><\/p>\n

The scowl immediately disappeared. \u201cOh, I forgot about the new kitties. How old are they now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think about a month. Ain\u2019t it about a month, mama?\u201d said Marybeth. Liza just nodded her head smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, can I go to Marybeth\u2019s? I\u2019ll be really good I promise. Please, Papa?\u201d Ellie shot Pa a desperate plea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I\u2019ll have one of the boys bring her back before supper.\u201d Aaron offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose that would be just fine, \u201csmiled Pa. \u201cEllie you mind Mr. Aaron and Ms. Liza.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss looked over Ellie\u2019s head and mouthed \u201cthank you\u201d to Ms. Liza.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie and Marybeth helped pack up the picnic and got loaded into the Cummings buckboard. \u201cBye, Papa.\u201d she waved cheerily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBe good Ellie. \u201d waved Pa. \u201cAnd Ellie?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cDo not bring home a kitten, we have plenty of cats.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just frowned. How did Papa know that she was going to try and bring one of those kitties home?<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa saw that frown and knew that\u2019s what she\u2019d been thinking. He chuckled as the Cummings rode off.<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth and Ellie chatted happily on the way back to the Cummings place, the FiveStar. Mr. Aaron came to help the girls out the buckboard. \u201cOk girls, no further than the barn without permission.\u201d Mr. Aaron warned them.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cCome on Ellie,\u201d Marybeth grabbed her friends hand and ran into the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMarybeth, where\u2019s the kitties?\u201d asked Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot sure, they was down here this morning. Did you hear that?\u201c<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth heard mewing coming from somewhere, but she wasn\u2019t real sure. Ellie couldn\u2019t hear it at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t hear nuthin, Marybeth.\u201d Ellie said shaking her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s coming from the loft.\u201d Marybeth said looking upwards.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go,\u201d said Ellie starting toward the ladder.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, you know we ain\u2019t allowed up that ladder without someone being in here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, come on Marybeth, you know we just gotta get the kitties back down here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth hesitated. \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d she said doubtfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m going up.\u201d Ellie declared.<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth watched her friend climb up the ladder. She decided, well, if Ellie is going up, then I\u2019m going up. She started up the ladder, Ellie was already about to put her foot on the loft floor, when Ellie screamed \u201cOwww!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A kitten had sunk her teeth into Ellie\u2019s hand. Ellie whipped her hand back, losing her hold on the ladder. She fell right on top of Marybeth. Both girls fell to the floor. Marybeth screamed. Ellie scrambled off of Marybeth. She looked at her friend, Marybeth\u2019s ankle was all twisted underneath her and Marybeth was holding her ankle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMarybeth, Marybeth, you ok? What\u2019s a matter?\u201d Ellie cried with fear.<\/span><\/p>\n

Marybeth held her ankle crying out, \u201cMama, get Mama.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie took off for the house. She ran smack into Andrew. Andrew caught Ellie and swung her in the air. \u201cWhat\u2019s ya in such a hurry for Ellie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMarybeth\u2019s hurt Andrew,\u201d Ellie cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is she?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBarn.\u201d Ellie sobbed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, you go get Mama, and I\u2019ll go get Marybeth.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew ran into the barn to find Marybeth sitting on the floor crying and holding her ankle. Andrew scooped her up and carried her up to the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Liza, Miss Liza.\u201d Ellie cried running into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLord child, what is the matter.\u201d Liza said catching Ellie in a hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMarybeth\u2019s hurt,\u201d she sobbed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Liza turned around to find Andrew carrying a sobbing Marybeth into the house. He laid her down on the sofa. \u201cShe hurt her ankle, Mama.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Liza shooed him away. Marybeth was just softly sobbing by now. \u201cLet me look, honey.\u201d Liza took off Marybeth\u2019s shoe and looked at the ugly purple bruise starting to form and noticed the ankle was starting to swell. She gently probed the ankle, Marybeth wincing in pain at every poke. \u201cWell, I don\u2019t think it\u2019s broken, I think it\u2019s just twisted.\u201d She turned to Andrew, \u201cGo get some ice son. The ice will take the swelling down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

She hadn\u2019t noticed that Ellie had slipped from the room and had run outside crying. Ellie was crushed. She felt so guilty. What if Marybeth broke it? What if Marybeth couldn\u2019t ever walk right again? What if Marybeth limped forever? It was all Ellie\u2019s fault. If she had listened to Marybeth, none of this would have happened. Ellie started running away from the FiveStar. She ran so far she didn\u2019t know where she was. The FiveStar was a really big ranch. She didn\u2019t know where she was or how to get home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Liza momentarily forgot about Ellie, when Andrew came back with the ice and handed it to his mother. Liza was packing the ankle in ice, when Aaron walked in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s all this?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew sighed, \u201cMarybeth twisted her ankle in the barn.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron\u2019s eyebrows raised. \u201cAnd how\u2019s that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew shrugged his shoulders, \u201cI don\u2019t know Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron looked down at his daughter, \u201cMarybeth what happened in the barn?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She hesitated, she knew if she told him, that the girls would probably get in trouble for going into the loft. But, then again, she didn\u2019t actually go into the loft and neither did Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron\u2019s eyes narrowed looking at his daughter, \u201cMary Elizabeth Cummings, I want an answer and I want it right now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, it was an accident. Really, it was just an accident.\u201d Marybeth said looking at the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron knew by his daughter\u2019s body language, that there was more to the story. \u201cAnd how did this accident happen?\u201d he prompted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe and Ellie went to see the kitties and they were gone. I thought I heard them in the loft and we was gonna go get them and bring them down. But, Ellie slipped on the ladder and fell on me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron\u2019s eyes darkened. \u201cYou are forbidden to be in that loft.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes Papa, I know. But we were gonna get the kitties and come right back down.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron looked around to admonish Ellie for trying to get in the loft, but he didn\u2019t see her. \u201cWhere\u2019s Ellie?\u201d he asked his wife.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh my Lord, Aaron, I was so busy tending to Marybeth, I forgot about Ellie. She was standing right here a few minutes ago. She must have run off. She must think that it\u2019s her fault that Marybeth\u2019s hurt. Oh Aaron, we need to go find her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron looked at Andrew, \u201cGo look out in the yard, in the barn, around the house. We need to find her, she\u2019s probably scared to death.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir\u201d Andrew said as he headed out the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie had been wandering around for what seemed like hours. She was so lost. She sat down on a rock and just had a meltdown. She sobbed and sobbed until she sobbed herself to sleep<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew came back in the house. \u201cPa, I cain\u2019t find her. I looked everywhere. She must have left the yard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron\u2019s hackles were rising, \u201cI told her not to leave the yard. I\u2019ve got a mind to paddle that girl myself, that is when I find her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Liza rested her hand on Aaron\u2019s arm, \u201cAaron, she\u2019s a scared little girl. Please try and be understanding. She thought she really hurt Marybeth, she doesn\u2019t know the ankle is just a little twisted.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron ignored his wife and looked at Andrew, \u201cGo saddle the horses, we need to go find her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew was in the stable saddling the horses, when Mark, Matt and Hoss rode up, each carrying a string of fish. \u201cHowdy, Andrew,\u201d said Hoss, \u201cI just thought I\u2019d save you the trouble of taking Ellie home. I\u2019ll just bring her home with me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew eyed Hoss. \u201cHoss, there\u2019s been a little accident\u2026.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss interrupted, \u201cEllie, is she ok?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew sighed, \u201cWell I think so, but she\u2019s run off.\u201d Andrew explained about Marybeth\u2019s ankle and what happened and how he and his Pa were about to ride out to find her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron walked out to start searching, when he saw his twins and Hoss. He looked at the four boys and ordered, \u201cYou boys, put those fish down and get right back up on those horses and start looking for Ellie. She can\u2019t be too far, she\u2019s on foot. We only have about an hour of daylight left, so snap to it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d the boys answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss was starting to panic. Ellie didn\u2019t know the FiveStar. Heck, she didn\u2019t even know the Ponderosa enough to not get lost on it. He had a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. He didn\u2019t know what the family would do if they lost Ellie. He pushed those thoughts from his mind and turned Chubb around to start the search.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron said, \u201cAll right boys, let\u2019s split up. I\u2019ll go North, Andrew, you go south, Hoss and Matt, go west and Mark, you go east. You know the signal, fire once if you find her, three times for trouble. Let\u2019s meet back here in one hour.\u201d They took off in their assigned directions. As they were riding out, Joe and Michael were riding in. They ran into Aaron on the way in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Mr. Aaron, I just thought I\u2019d come by and get Ellie and save you a trip.\u201d offered Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron stopped and gave the boys a quick accounting of the situation. \u201cJoe, ride on home and tell you Pa, I\u2019m sure he would want to be over here. Michael, gone on with him, better two riders than one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d said the boys as they took off for the Ponderosa. Joe and Michael arrived at the Ponderosa is short time. Joe jumped off his horse and ran into the house shouting, \u201cPa, pa!!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa was sitting in his favorite chair reading a book. Well, he thought it was peaceful for awhile. \u201cJoseph! Stop shouting! I\u2019m right here.\u201d Pa said. Pa took one look at Joe\u2019s face and knew something was dreadfully wrong. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, boy?\u201d Pa stood up grasping Joe by his shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, Ellie ran off from the FiveStar.\u201d Joe said, \u201cMr. Aaron, Andrew, Matt, Mark and Hoss are looking for her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d he bellowed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam came flying down the stairs after hearing all the commotion. \u201cWhat\u2019s going on Pa?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe quickly recounted the tale to Adam and Pa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, get the horses saddled up.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cCome on Adam, we are headed for the FiveStar.\u201d Pa said, his voice etched with worry.<\/span><\/p>\n

While, Joe and Michael had ridden for the Ponderosa, the Cummings men and Hoss were desperately searching for Ellie. Ellie had woken up and was sitting on a rock pitifully sobbing. She heard someone calling her name, but she was afraid to answer. She just starting crying harder. Aaron stilled his horse and listened. There, he heard it again. He thought he heard a soft sobbing. He rode quietly to the place where he found Ellie crying. Ellie didn\u2019t even hear or see him come toward her for all the crying she was doing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor!\u201d said Aaron with relief.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked up and saw Marybeth\u2019s papa. She was so scared. She didn\u2019t know what he was going to do to her. She had disobeyed about leaving the yard, she had disobeyed about going into the loft, and above all she had hurt Marybeth. Marybeth told her that he paddled first and asked questions later. Ellie just wanted her papa, sure not Marybeth\u2019s.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, come here\u201d said Aaron in a voice that brooked no disobedience from his children.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just sat there shaking her head no. She started to back away from him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI need to fire the pistol to let the boys know I found you.\u201d Aaron fired the pistol in the air.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just stood frozen, scared to death.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, come here\u201d he said again, his voice rising.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just stood there shaking her head no.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron wasn\u2019t quite sure what to do. His children never disobeyed that tone. He didn\u2019t want to scare her anymore than she already was. He didn\u2019t want her to turn and run away. He stood there for a minute thinking.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he stood there, he heard the sounds of horses galloping toward him. Hoss was the first one to arrive on the scene. Ellie took one look at Hoss and ran to him as he jumped off Chubb and caught her in his arms. She was just crying, \u201cHoss! Hoss!.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSsh, baby, Hoss is here. It\u2019s ok. I got ya now.\u201d Hoss stroked her head and holding her tight.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron was still very angry, he regarded Hoss and Ellie and he waited for Ellie to calm down a bit. \u201cHoss hand Ellie to me.\u201d he ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Unsure, Hoss glanced at Aaron. He wasn\u2019t sure what Aaron intended to do. But he knew that tone, his Pa used that tone when there was absolutely no room for disrespect or disobedience. \u201cUh, Mr. Aaron, I think she\u2019s a bit scared\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Andrew, Mark and Matt had arrived by now and were watching this exchange. They were amazed, nobody ever disobeyed their father when he used that tone of voice. Hoss must have a death wish, they decided.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI mean now, Eric.\u201d Aaron said evenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss still looked uncertain, but he knew Mr. Aaron was serious. Nobody but Pa had ever used his given name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you mean to disobey me, boy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir,\u201d Hoss responded, but he didn\u2019t let go of Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I\u2019m not going to hurt her or punish her.\u201d said Aaron a little more gently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d Hoss said as he handed Ellie to Mr. Aaron. He breathed a sigh of relief. He suspected Mr. Aaron was going to let Pa do whatever punishing was necessary.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron settled Ellie on his horse in front of him and took off for the FiveStar. Andrew layed his hand on Hoss\u2019 arm, \u201cHoss, Pa just wants to talk to her out of earshot of all of us. Let\u2019s give him a few minutes head start. If he said he wasn\u2019t going to punish her, he won\u2019t.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As they started off for the FiveStar, Aaron said to Ellie, \u201cEllie, Marybeth is fine. She just twisted her ankle.\u201d He could feel the tension slide right out her little body.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie turned to face him, \u201cReally, Mr. Aaron, it ain\u2019t broke, she don\u2019t need no operation?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He smiled down at her, \u201cNo child, a few days rest and some ice and she\u2019ll be as good as new.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie was so relieved, but she knew she was in big trouble for not minding. He had said he wasn\u2019t going to punish her, but she wasn\u2019t so sure. She didn\u2019t say anything for a few minutes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, do you know why I\u2019m angry?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She nodded her head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCuz, I didn\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what didn\u2019t you mind?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mind you about going up in the loft and leaving the yard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She looked up at him confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t mind me when I told you to come to me when I found you. In fact you were not only disobedient, you were disrespectful when you told me no.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yeah,\u201d she whispered. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Mr. Aaron.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you know the worst part?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie couldn\u2019t imagine that there was a worse part. \u201cNo, sir,\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou scared the daylights out of all of us. You gave us cause to worry. What if you were lost or hurt and we couldn\u2019t find you. What then?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie didn\u2019t quite understand, but she knew that she worried Mr. Aaron, Miss Liza and the boys. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Mr. Aaron, really I am.\u201d She started to cry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, what does your father do when you don\u2019t mind?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpanking,\u201d she sobbed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, what does your father do when you are disrespectful?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpanking,\u201d she snuffled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, what does your father do when you give him cause to worry?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpanking,\u201d she sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, Eleanor, I should give you three spankings. But, I\u2019m going to let your father handle that. I just want to make sure that you understand that if you ever disobey me again, I will certainly make up for the spankings I did not give you today. I\u2019m sure your father will give me that privilege. Do you understand?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir\u201d she said in a very small voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aaron and Ellie arrived in the yard about the same time as Pa, Adam, Joe and Michael. Pa saw Ellie in Aaron\u2019s arms and a wave of relief washed over him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa,\u201d she yelled as Aaron put her down. She ran will all her might to the waiting arms of her papa. She started to cry with relief. All she really wanted was her papa.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa gathered her up in his arms and hugged her tight. \u201cI\u2019m mighty obliged Aaron, to you for finding her.\u201d Pa said his voice choked with emotion. Pa stood there for awhile holding Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a time, Aaron said, \u201cBen, a word, please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa handed Ellie off to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, take Ellie in to see Liza and Marybeth.\u201d said Aaron.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and carried his sister into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa and Aaron walked over to the corner of the house. Aaron explained everything to Pa. He explained his talk with Ellie and how he threatened to spank her the next time she disobeyed him. Pa nodded knowingly. He told Aaron how he agreed and he would take care of the current punishment. The men shook hands and walked toward the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

As they opened the door, all eyes were on the two fathers. Liza searched her husband\u2019s face for a clue. He just smiled at her. She thought they would discuss it later, after all the children had gone to bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you Marybeth,\u201d Pa inquired?<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine sir, it feels much better.\u201d Marybeth said looking at her papa. She was wondering if she was going to get a spanking for disobeying the rule about the loft. He didn\u2019t look angry still. She wasn\u2019t sure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, then I think it\u2019s high time for the Cartwrights to head home.\u201d Pa said. They went out to mount their horses. Hoss stopped to pick Ellie up and hand her to Pa. Pa settled her in front of him as they took off for the Ponderosa. It was late when they go back, as they dismounted Pa looked at Joe, \u201cJoseph and Hoss take care of the horses.\u201d He handed a sleeping Ellie to Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Ellie upstairs to her room, undressed her and put her to bed. He was amazed at how that child could fall asleep at the drop of a hat. She didn\u2019t even stir. He smoothed her hair back and gave her a kiss on the top of the head. \u201cSweet dreams, princess.\u201d he whispered, then he turned around and walked downstairs. Pa was sitting in his chair, with his hands in his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou ok, Pa?\u201d asked Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust wondering, how to handle this son. That little girl of ours broke some many rules today. The results could have been disastrous. Part of me wants to give her the worst spanking or her life and the other part of me just wants to hold her and is so grateful that she\u2019s safe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe entered the house with a sideways glance to Pa. \u201cBoys, there is some supper in the warmer. Why don\u2019t you get some and then go on up to bed.\u201d Pa motioned toward the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you know that Ellie doesn\u2019t really mean not to mind. She just gets something in her mind and then she doesn\u2019t think much. She\u2019s still just a baby. She doesn\u2019t really understand what could happen.\u201d Adam said defending his baby sister. Pa laughed to himself, Adam and Hoss were always defending Joe and Ellie, if they thought Pa was about to give out a spanking. Even Joe would defend Ellie. He was proud that his children cared so much for each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know, son, very much like my other children at this age.\u201d Pa smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that Little Joe, he surely was like that.\u201d Adam agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, well I suppose Joe was, but I was thinking of another little boy who was quite stubborn and obstinate at this age.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got the drift. \u201cPoint taken, Pa.\u201d he smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, let\u2019s get some supper and get on up to bed. I think we\u2019ve had enough for one day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwrights ate in companionable silence and said their goodnights and headed off to bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning, Pa, Adam and Hoss were already seated at the breakfast table. Surprising everyone, Joe made his way down to breakfast earlier than usual. \u201cMorning,\u201d said Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, son. Is your sister up?\u201d queried Pa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, sir.\u201d Joe said grabbing his milk and taking a swig.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked toward the stairs, he couldn\u2019t decide whether he should wake her up or let her sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWant me to get her Pa,\u201d offered Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I think we will let her sleep. She is probably exhausted from her ordeal yesterday. I don\u2019t think she sat in my saddle two minutes before she fell asleep last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The boys finished up their breakfast, asked to be excused and headed for the door for chores. Pa had some contracts to review, he headed for his desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

A couple hours later, Ellie woke up, yawned and stretched. She started to bounce out of bed until she remembered what had happened yesterday. She knew Marybeth was going to be fine. She wasn\u2019t sure she, herself, would be fine. Mr. Aaron hadn\u2019t given her a spanking, but he made her realize that she had disobeyed many rules for which her Papa would give her one. She didn\u2019t know what to do, she could stay in bed and maybe Papa wouldn\u2019t spank her as long as she was in bed. She sat there for a while and decided that staying in bed was boring. Maybe Papa was out with the boys and she could get Hop Sing to give her some breakfast and she would be safe until later. That\u2019s it she decided, the house was very quiet, Papa must be out with the boys and maybe by the time he got back he would forget about all the naughty things she had done yesterday. She was hungry, she quickly dressed and headed down the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa looked up and saw his youngest coming down the stairs. She was running down them as usual, he didn\u2019t think Ellie or Joe walked any where, they were always running or bouncing. As she jumped on the bottom landing, she heard\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cELEANOR GRACE, QUIT RUNNING ON THOSE STAIRS!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She stopped in mid stride and looked over the landing at Pa standing at his desk with his hand on his hips glaring at her. She swallowed hard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome here young lady, we need to have a talk.\u201d Pa said imperiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie slowed to a walk and went and stood in front of his desk. She was staring at the floor. She knew she was in so much trouble, she couldn\u2019t look her father in the eye. The tears were forming in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor\u2026\u201d Pa held his arms out to her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie flew around the desk into his arms, \u201cPapa, I\u2019m so sorry. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d she cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa held her on his lap until her cries subsided. \u201cEleanor, what are you sorry for?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry that I didn\u2019t mind Mr. Aaron and because I didn\u2019t mind, Marybeth got hurt.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

My word, thought Pa, she really does understand. He took her little quivering chin in his hand and forced her eyes to his. \u201cAnd, what else?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry I left the yard and worried Mr. Aaron and the boys.\u201d she whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at her Papa very confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Aaron said you didn\u2019t mind when he found you and he told you to come to him and not only that, you told him no.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Papa I\u2019m not sorry about that part.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Ben roared incredulously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe looked scary, I didn\u2019t want to go to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat were you going to do, Ellie?\u201d Pa asked secretly smiling to himself. Aaron Cummings was a big man, as big as Pa was, if not bigger.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWait for you or Adam or Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you know we would be coming?\u201d he asked surprised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCuz, Hoss told me if I was ever lost, you or Adam or him would find me and just stay put. So I stayed put.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa nodded knowingly. \u201cBut Ellie, if ever Mr. Aaron or Miss Liza tells you to do something, you best do it. Do you understand?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir, but Papa he is scary\u201d Ellie repeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa chuckled and held her close for a moment. He pulled her back just a bit so he could look into her face. Ellie you know that you disobeyed many times yesterday.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She looked down, \u201cI know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s our punishment for disobeying?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpanking.\u201d she sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo up to your room and wait for me.\u201d Pa sighed, he really hated this part of being a father. He headed up the stairs with a heavy heart. Ellie was waiting for him. He looked at her tear stained face and sighed. He pulled her over his knee. When he was done, he stood her up and wiped away her tears.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie you punishment is done. You are forgiven. No more tears.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d she sniffled. He held her until her tears subsided and she was calm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve missed breakfast, go see if Hop Sing can rustle you up something to eat and then you can go play. Ellie, do not leave the yard without permission.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

He shook his head as she went down the stairs. He wondered if that girl would ever learn to mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/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
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n

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

Summary: \u00a0Pa is wondering if Ellie is ever going to learn to mind? \u00a0<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0K+ (6,425 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":93,"featured_media":1229,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3160","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":1276,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/bonanza7.jpg?fit=720%2C477&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":3113,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3113","url_meta":{"origin":3160,"position":0},"title":"Of Hounds and Harlots (by Fozrulz)","author":"Fozrulz","date":"April 21, 2011","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0This is my second story with Ellie.\u00a0 Christmas time brings a hard lesson for Ellie and Joe. 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