Summary: Adam takes a trip out of town only to run into a pair of twins in need of a home. The tables turn when it may be more trouble for Adam than it’s worth.
\nRating:\u00a0 PG-13\u00a0 \u00a0(15,705\u00a0 words)<\/p>\n
The Younger Years Series<\/strong><\/p>\n The Younger Years<\/a> <\/p>\n The Brandsters have included this author in our project:\u00a0Preserving Their Legacy<\/a>. To preserve the legacy of the author, we have decided to give their work a home in the Bonanza Brand Fanfiction Library.\u00a0 The author will always be the owner of this work of fanfiction, and should they wish us to remove their story, we will.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The Younger Years<\/strong><\/p>\n This was his first trip on his own and it was going well. Adam found himself feeling a bit proud as he had just gotten his father a lumber contract from a new agent in San Francisco. His father had trusted him to travel all the way to San Francisco alone, and settle the contract with the lumber agent. He had completed his task without a hitch, and was excited to get home to receive his praise. He had ridden with his father a few times to learn the ropes, he knew what to expect from the city. He enjoyed the look of a big city, all the shops, people, and different ways of living. He took the time to stop and observe new buildings being erected, and even started some planning of his own on things he could bring back to Virginia City. He was doing this now actually, a new school building had been built since his last trip with his father, and was quite intrigued by its intricate design. As he was studying the detailed art work of the brick, he noticed a boy nearby. The boy was sitting below the open window outside of the school. He seemed to be taking notes of the knowledge being rendered inside. Adam observed this scene for a while, then decided to approach.<\/p>\n \u201cShouldn\u2019t you be inside the school, it seems to me it would be easier to hear from inside the classroom,\u201d Adam smiled at the boy.<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t go inside, they won\u2019t let me,\u201d replied the boy still intently writing his notes.<\/p>\n \u201cAh, so you should be home helping with work there then, I take it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo,\u201d said the boy shrugging towards Adam. \u201cI am trying to listen if you don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight, sorry. I have some errands to run anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n The boy continued his learning, Adam walked towards the post office to wire his father about the contract.<\/p>\n John was 13, and had never been to school. He was however often found outside of the school with a tablet, jotting down all the lessons being passed to the students. He prided himself on the ease in which learning came to him. He had taught himself to read and write sitting below the window of many schools. He would then take this information to his twin brother Danny, and do his best to teach him as well. Danny couldn\u2019t seem to learn as well as his brother. He was street smart, he kept he and his brother fed, got new clothes for them when need be, and found the occasional odd job. But, John always wanted his brother to experience the joy of learning as he did. Every night John and Danny would practice reading and writing, but for some reason Danny always got the letters turned around backwards or mixed up. When he tried to read, the letters would jumble together, he couldn\u2019t get the letters turned around the right way. Danny did however enjoy the stories his brother would bring home, he would tell tales of wars with Indians, battles, and famous cowboys. Sometimes the stories seemed a little far fetched but his brother John swore they were true. John was a lot of things, but he was not a liar.<\/p>\n Adam headed back to the school just as the bell was ringing to dismiss the students. Adam saw the boy stand to leave. Adam called out to him.<\/p>\n \u201cKid! Hey, wait up a minute will ya?\u2019<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it Mister, I gotta get going.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI picked up this extra sandwich, I thought I could eat two, but it was too much. I didn\u2019t want it to go to waste, so I thought you might like to have it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThank you,\u201d John said taking the sandwich. \u201cI really have to go, thanks again for the sandwich.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey wait, what\u2019s your name Kid; Or should I just keep calling you Kid?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cKid will do fine. See ya round Mister,\u201d John said walking away.<\/p>\n Well that didn\u2019t work well did it, Adam thought. Oh well, maybe I\u2019ll see him before I leave tomorrow. Seems to me a kid like that hasn\u2019t eaten in a while. I hope he has a place to stay.<\/p>\n He walked back to the hotel, wanting a good nights sleep before his long journey alone tomorrow.<\/p>\n \u201cHey John, what ya got there?\u201d asked Danny, his mouth watering slightly.<\/p>\n \u201cA sandwich, someone gave it to me outside of the school,\u201d said John handing half of the sandwich to his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy\u2019d they do that, was it Miss Lowry again?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, some stranger, I didn\u2019t get his name.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, did ya thank \u2018em anyway?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI did. Pretty good sandwich huh. I took really good notes today. The teacher was talking all about the war of 1812, are ya ready to hear it?\u201d asked John waiting impatiently to begin his story. He had added a few details of his own to the war, just to spice it up a little.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, not now. We need some new clothes, mine smell so bad I can hardly stand myself. Your\u2019s aren\u2019t to pretty either brother!\u201d Danny said laughing at their tattered clothing.<\/p>\n \u201cYa mean I gotta go too. Danny, I thought you liked to do that alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, after I almost got caught the last time, I need you to be the lookout! Hey ya don\u2019t want me to go to jail do ya?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOf course not, but I wanted to tell you all about the war and all the other things I learned today!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019ll be time for that later. Lets get going before it gets too dark, and people get too drunk. Danny lead his brother towards the corner store where he planned to steal at least two new shirts a piece.<\/p>\n Adam stared out the window of the hotel. It was too early to sleep and he felt restless. Looking into the streets he saw a boy that looked like the one outside of the school. It was already beginning to get dark, but he swore it was the same boy, only he had different clothes on. \u201cNow what is he doing back again if he had something so important to do that he couldn\u2019t even stop for conversation,\u201d he thought to himself. \u201cHe looks up to something, I think I\u2019ll go have another talk with my friend down there.\u201d<\/p>\n He grabbed his hat and headed towards the door.<\/p>\n Danny made his way slowly towards the corner store. He stayed in the midst of the crowd so as to blend in. If he was spotted entering the store, he would be caught for sure. He was sure they would recognize him from the last shop lifting adventure. Danny turned to make sure his brother was still nearby, seeing him he quickened his pace towards the store.<\/p>\n \u201cWhoa, Whoa, watch it there Kid, you almost ran me down,\u201d Adam said holding onto the boys arm.<\/p>\n \u201cLet go Fella, what are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFella, now is that the way to greet an old friend\u201d? Adam laughed at the way the boy tried to wriggle free. \u201cSettle down now, and I\u2019ll let you go. If I let you go now, you\u2019ll land a mile a way!\u201d<\/p>\n Danny settled, and the stranger let go of his arm.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you mean old friend?\u201d asked Danny staring into the strangers eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t you remember?\u201d \u201cI gave you that sandwich earlier, outside of the school.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Yeah. Thanks,\u201d Danny said trying to walk around the stranger.<\/p>\n \u201cHey, what\u2019s the hurry, why don\u2019t you and I go get some real supper, you can tell me what mission you\u2019re on,\u201d Adam said catching the boy by the sleeve.<\/p>\n \u201cLEAVE MY BROTHER ALONE!\u201d John yelled punching Adam directly in the kidney from behind.<\/p>\n \u201cHEY! YOU LITTLE! What the, there\u2019s two of you!\u201d Adam said spinning around to meet his attacker.<\/p>\n \u201cTouch him again and I\u2019ll kill ya Mister, we don\u2019t want any trouble,\u201d John said stepping beside his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cI was offering your brother dinner, before you struck me that is,\u201d Adam said leaning against the nearby post of the corner store entrance.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, it didn\u2019t look that way from over there. Why do you wanna by us dinner?\u201d asked John suspiciously.<\/p>\n \u201cCause\u2019 you look like ya need it!\u201d<\/p>\n The two brothers looked at each other. Why turn down a good meal? But, what would the stranger want in return?<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019ll we owe ya?\u201d asked Danny.<\/p>\n \u201cOwe me?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFor the dinner,\u201d said John.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is my understanding that when a man offers a dinner, he expects nothing in return except for the company,\u201d said Adam studying the boys closely. They looked so much alike he couldn\u2019t distinguish any certain characteristic to tell them apart.<\/p>\n \u201cSounds good Mister,\u201d John said getting Danny\u2019s nodding approval.<\/p>\n As the three sat down, Adam ordered each a steak dinner. The boys continued to eye him suspiciously, he smiled to show he meant no harm.<\/p>\n \u201cSo can I ask your names?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure you can,\u201d said John in return.<\/p>\n Adam raised an eyebrow in response.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, I\u2019ll start. My name is Adam Cartwright. I am traveling on business for my father Ben Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m John, and this is my brother Danny. We live here.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDoes your Pa let you come into town this late often?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAin\u2019t got no Pa,\u201d said John.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, so your mother then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo mother neither,\u201d stated Danny matter of factly.<\/p>\n Just then the food arrived. By the look on the boys faces, Adam knew that the talking would have to wait. There was eating to be done. Soon the boys finished, both cleaning their plates. Adam was still working on his when the boys glanced towards the door.<\/p>\n \u201cHold on there boy\u2019s, how about dessert?\u201d<\/p>\n The boys looked at each other with wide eyes. They had never eaten dessert.<\/p>\n \u201cGREAT!\u201d they exclaimed together.<\/p>\n \u201cApple pie it is then,\u201d Adam laughed.<\/p>\n As the boys waited for their order, Adam began a new round of questions.<\/p>\n \u201cWhere do you live if you don\u2019t have a Ma or Pa then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe live here,\u201d said John quietly. All these questions were making him nervous.<\/p>\n \u201cIn this restaurant?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, here in town.\u201d Danny stated.<\/p>\n \u201cAlone?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, with each other,\u201d John said watching as the pie arrived to the table.<\/p>\n \u201cHow old are you boys?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThirteen,\u201d the boys said again in unison.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s mighty young to be living alone isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNaw, we been alone since we was three. Ma and Pa died of the fever, we been on our own ever since,\u201d said John with his mouth full.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry to hear that. Would you boys be interested in some work then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat kind of work do you mean? Where?\u201d Danny asked.<\/p>\n \u201cRanch work. I would like you to come work on the Ponderosa with me and my family. It would pay some, and you would receive free room and board.\u201d<\/p>\n The boys looked at each other, it seemed this was all they needed to do to communicate.<\/p>\n \u201cSounds good. Where is this Ponderosa?\u201d asked Danny.<\/p>\n \u201cWe ride out in the morning, it is not too far. Why don\u2019t you gather your things, you can share my room at the hotel, we\u2019ll ride out at dawn. Meet me at the hotel once you\u2019ve gathered your things.\u201d<\/p>\n The boys finished their pie, and scooted out the door. Glancing at the store Danny shook his head. \u201cWon\u2019t need it now, we\u2019ll have plenty of money to buy our own clothes soon. I only take out of necessity you know.\u201d<\/p>\n They arrived at the hotel quickly. Adam noticed John holding only a tattered old book, and Danny a small pocket knife.<\/p>\n \u201cAlright boy\u2019s, let\u2019s head up, we got a ride ahead of us tomorrow. We\u2019ll rent a horse from the stable that you boys can share.\u201d Adam said, excited to be headed home.<\/p>\n John and Danny slept soundly the whole night through. The boys shared the bed, Adam slept in a roll out on the floor. Adam was the first to wake, he noticed a slight ache in his back, boy can that kid pack a punch he thought. Stretching, he made up his mind to visit the corner store. He didn\u2019t want the boys arriving at the Ponderosa looking like that. The smell was bad enough to scare the horses. He slipped out quietly to let the boys get more sleep, they had quite a ride ahead of them, and riding double on a horse was not that comfortable. I think I\u2019ll get them a few sets of clothing, I\u2019ll call it an advance for the work they will do. With that thought, he closed the door quietly behind him.<\/p>\n Danny woke quietly, feeling his brother beside him, he tried his best not to wake him. \u201cWow, I didn\u2019t know how good it felt to sleep in a real bed. I think that must be what Heaven feels like. Is it Ma and Pa?\u201d Danny thought to himself looking to the sky.<\/p>\n \u201cHey Brother, what are you doing?\u201d asked John with sleep still in his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know about you, but I\u2019m gonna wash up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll join you. That bed was mighty nice don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure was, what do you think this Ponderosa will be like, as nice as this?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAW I don\u2019t know, I can\u2019t imagine anything else as nice as this, but I guess we\u2019ll see. Speakin of, where did that Adam go, you don\u2019t think he left us do you?\u201d asked John with a worried frow.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know, maybe he thinks were lazy sleepin this long and all. You know, I am not quite sure what we\u2019re getting ourselves into.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey boys, you\u2019re up,\u201d said Adam standing in the doorway. I went to the store and got you some things for the trip. We\u2019ll call it an advance. You needed a canteen a piece for water, some boots, hats, and some clothes. Don\u2019t worry, you\u2019ll pay me back soon enough.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Mister Adam\u201d the boys said together.<\/p>\n It\u2019s just Adam, you can save the Mister for my Father, you know I am just a couple of years older than you boys.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow old are you?\u201d asked Danny.<\/p>\n \u201cLets get going, I\u2019ll tell you about my family on the way.<\/p>\n The boys headed out the door, and off to the stable to get the horses. Adam smiled at the thought of these boys experiencing his family for the first time. Even though they were going through a tough time at the moment with the death of Joe\u2019s mother recently, Adam knew the boys would be welcomed with open arms.<\/p>\n \u201cYou didn\u2019t answer my question Adam,\u201d Danny said struggling to maintain his balance on the horse.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m seventeen.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSeventeen, I thought you were way older than that. Your only four years older than us!\u201d John said laughing.<\/p>\n \u201cThanks, I think. Anyway, I have two brothers at home. I\u2019m the oldest at seventeen, then Hoss, he\u2019s eleven, and Little Joe, he\u2019s five. My ma just passed away last month, my Pa has been doing his best to cope, but, I can say that all of our work has suffered on account of the happenings. We sure could use extra hands, and I\u2019m awful glad I found you two. With Hoss and I in school, the ranch is starting to suffer.<\/p>\n \u201cYour Ma passed too. What happened?\u201d asked John.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t\u2019 think I\u2019m ready to talk about it yet John. I understand your curiosity, but there are some things better left alone.\u201d He still felt some guilt over the death of Marie.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry.\u201d John said looking away, he knew how hard it could be to talk about your parents.<\/p>\n The boys rode in silence for some time. The boys had never seen this part of the country, and they were in awe of the rolling hills and the mountains.<\/p>\n \u201cHey, John said excitedly. Can I tell you about the war now?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNow\u2019s as good as time as any ain\u2019t it. I ain\u2019t got no place else to go!\u201d Danny answered holding on tightly to the horse\u2019s reins.<\/p>\n The sun was setting as the boys noticed the light from the Ponderosa. Adam knew his Pa would be surprised that he had brought back with him two young boys. Also he knew that his Pa would understand, and after meeting the boys, Pa would be glad he brought them home. Pa had a mighty generous heart when it came to helping other\u2019s, especially young one\u2019s, they reminded him of his sons.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, this is it, this is the Ponderosa. You\u2019ll be staying here at the house with us. I\u2019m sure supper is waiting. We\u2019ll eat first, then I\u2019ll have Hop Sing fill a bath for you.<\/p>\n \u201cHop Sing?\u201d asked John his eyebrows raised.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s our cook. If it weren\u2019t for Hop Sing we would starve. Careful though, he has a temper.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben looked out the window, he had heard horses approaching. That\u2019s Adam alright he thought, but who is that with him? Ben took a step towards the door. Just then Little Joe ran in front of him and out the front door in a flash, Hoss was not too far behind. Hoss bumping into his father nearly knocked him out of the door. Ben started to complain, but smiled realizing how his son\u2019s had not shown this much excitement since Marie had passed. \u201cOh Marie, look at our sons. Our beautiful sons, I wish you were here.\u201d Ben thought stepping out of the door.<\/p>\n \u201cHey Pa,\u201d Adam said trying to release himself from Little Joe\u2019s tightening grip around his waist.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam. Who are your friends here?\u201d Ben asked noticing first how young these boys were.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is Danny and John, I hired them to help around the ranch,\u201d Adam said smiling towards the boys who were being led to the barn with the horses by Little Joe who had finally lost interest in his older brother.<\/p>\n \u201cYou come now, EAT. Food going to get cold, have to throw it out. YOU COME NOW,\u201d Hop sing said, not wasting any time with greetings.<\/p>\n \u201cWelcome home son,\u201d Pa said putting his arm around his young son leading him inside.<\/p>\n \u201cThis food is really great,\u201d said John with his mouth full.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, ain\u2019t had nothing like it!\u201d said Danny finishing his plate.<\/p>\n Adam looked at his father, waiting for him to find out why the boys were here. He thought it best that Pa heard from the boys why they were here.<\/p>\n \u201cSo Boys, were you looking for work in San Francisco?\u201d questioned Ben.<\/p>\n \u201cNot really, we were just offered the job,\u201d said John reaching for more biscuits.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about your family? Won\u2019t they be missing you, you so far from home?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAin\u2019t got no family sir, just the two of us. We been alone since we was three when our parents died. We done raised up ourselves. Thought this was a good opportunity to put some money back in hopes that John can go to school some day,\u201d Danny said, pleased for the opportunity to help his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cI see, well Hop Sing is getting your bath ready, and Adam and I will set up your rooms,\u201d Ben said rising from the table. Adam stood up as well, knowing his father would want to talk to him alone.<\/p>\n Ben led his son upstairs toward the bed room. He listened to Little Joe and Hoss chattering away to their new friends, and smiled at the idea of how this may help to ease some of the grief.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, you\u2019re not mad are ya?\u201d Adam asked looking at his Pa intently. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I didn\u2019t wire home first, but there wasn\u2019t any time. I couldn\u2019t leave them there, that John reminds me of Little Joe something fierce.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course I\u2019m not angry son, you did the right thing. Only thing is, will anyone be questioning these boys whereabouts. I\u2019ll send in a wire to the town sheriff tomorrow letting him know the boys are here just in case.\u201d Ben said reassuring his son with a smile and a pat on the shoulder.<\/p>\n Adam smiled, knowing that his father would understand. He hoped that these boys might ease some of the grief his father was feeling. It would definitely keep his mind on other things for a while. Adam and Ben prepared a room for each of the boys.<\/p>\n \u201cLook at this water John, you sure were dirty. I can\u2019t get in there with the water lookin like it is, I\u2019m liable to come out dirtier than before,\u201d Danny said looking at the water and backing away with his hands in the air.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you mean? This water is great, here have a splash!\u201d John said splashing the water at his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy you, I\u2019ll get you for that!\u201d Danny said rushing forward to dunk his brother under the water.<\/p>\n \u201cYOU BOYS, YOU MAKE MESS, YOU CLEAN UP! MORE BOYS MEAN MORE TROUBLE FOR HOP SING!\u201d Hop Sing carried on as both boys quieted, John quickly getting out of the tub.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re really sorry, we\u2019ll clean it up good, honest.\u201d Danny said stepping away from Hop Sing.<\/p>\n \u201cWHATS GOING ON HERE!\u201d Ben said, his voice booming. He thought someone had been hurt by the sound of Hop Sing.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry sir, we\u2019re cleaning it up, honest!\u201d John said hurriedly trying to clean up the water.<\/p>\n \u201cWe didn\u2019t mean it sir, we just got carried away that\u2019s all, I\u2019m sorry. It\u2019s been so long since we had a bath, we just were messin around. I\u2019m awful sorry sir!\u201d Danny said hoping Mr. Cartwright didn\u2019t see the tears in his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cHere, I\u2019ll help you. It\u2019s just water. HOP SING, DRAW UP ANOTHER BATH. YELLING LIKE THAT I THOUGHT SOMEONE WAS KILLED!\u201d Ben said anger building as he saw the tears forming in both boys eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cBoys, you have to forgive Hop Sing, he is a mighty good cook, but is lacking in manners. Don\u2019t worry about the mess, it\u2019ll clean up easy enough.\u201d Ben put an arm around each boy. John, you seem clean enough, your bed clothes are laid out in your room. Adam, show John to his room please.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThank You sir, sorry again about the mess. I didn\u2019t mean to cause you any trouble. Me and my brother appreciate this job, and don\u2019t want to screw it up.\u201d Danny said meeting Ben\u2019s kind eyes.<\/p>\n Hop Sing finished refilling the tub. Danny got into the steaming hot bath, he was still a little nervous about the uproar he had caused earlier. \u201cI wonder if this is what it is like to have a father. Mr. Cartwright seems nice enough, he wasn\u2019t too upset about the trouble we caused. I have to remind John that we need to be on our best behavior. I don\u2019t want to lose this job.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDone yet Danny?\u201d asked Ben standing next to the tub with a fresh towel.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, yes sir. I didn\u2019t realize I was in here so long. The water is a might chilly now. Thank you,\u201d said Danny taking the towel from Ben.<\/p>\n Ben turned as the boy exited the tub. He remembered how shy boys this age could be.<\/p>\n \u201cI will take you to your room, your bed is ready, and I am sure you\u2019re ready for a rest.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI sure am. This is great Mr. Cartwright, I sure am glad I ran into that Adam!\u201d Danny said climbing the stairs to his new room.<\/p>\n It was quiet here, too quiet. John couldn\u2019t sleep. \u201cI think I\u2019ll go check on Danny. He is probably having as much trouble sleeping as I am. I never slept without Danny beside me, not even in the womb,\u201d John thought to himself.<\/p>\n \u201cDanny. Danny you awake?\u201d John whispered.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I\u2019m awake, I was waitin on you brother,\u201d Danny said smiling. He had never slept without his brother before, not even in the womb.<\/p>\n \u201cScoot over, you\u2019re hoggin the covers ya big lummox, Danny playfully pushed his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is my bed, you scoot over ya oversized Ox!\u201d John said pushing back at Danny. John realized too late that he pushed harder than he meant to. He reached for his brother as he fell out of bed, landing with a hard bump, and hitting his head on the desk on the way down.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, are you okay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I think I hit my head though!\u201d Why\u2019d ya push me so hard, I was only joking.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t mean too, I was just\u2026\u201d The door opened quickly, Ben, Adam, Hoss and Little Joe stepping into the room.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is going on here? Is someone hurt?\u201d Ben asked sharply.<\/p>\n \u201cN N No sir, I fell out of bed, that\u2019s all,\u201d said Danny rubbing his head. He already had a lump forming from the fall.<\/p>\n \u201cJOE, HOSS GO TO BED!\u201d Ben said upset that his sleep had been disturbed. It was hard enough to get to sleep without this nonsense.<\/p>\n Joe and Hoss quickly left the room. They knew that bed time was no time for Tom Foolery.<\/p>\n \u201cYOU HAVE YOUR OWN BED, WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN HERE!\u201d Ben said, more harshly than he meant.<\/p>\n \u201cI, I, I just.\u201d Danny couldn\u2019t finish. This man scared him, and he started to cry. He was not used to answering orders, and it seemed like he kept messing up.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry son, I didn\u2019t mean to sound so angry. Why are you in this room? Don\u2019t get upset, I am not that angry,\u201d Ben said softening up. He forgot that most people were not used to the booming sound of his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cI never slept without my brother before, I just needed his company that\u2019s all. I\u2019m sorry, I\u2019ll go back to my own room.\u201d John said eyeing Ben angrily. He didn\u2019t like the fact that his brother was crying.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, No, you don\u2019t have to do that. You can stay. Just keep the noise down. Let me see your head boy. It\u2019s just a bump, you\u2019ll end up with a headache, but that is all. Tomorrow, I will bring in a bed so you boys can share a room. Sleep tight, there is school tomorrow,\u201d Ben said heading towards the door.<\/p>\n John stopped in his tracks. Did he say school? What did he mean, they had never been to school, he didn\u2019t know that was part of the deal.<\/p>\n \u201cSchool?\u201d John and Danny said together.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, you boys are school age. I\u2019ll expect you to attend school with Adam and Hoss in the morning. I\u2019ll ride out with you so I can let the teacher know you\u2019re coming.\u201d Ben said guiding Adam out of the room and closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n \u201cWell Pa, I think you scared \u2018em to death, and made their night all at the same time,\u201d Adam said laughing at his father.<\/p>\n \u201cGo to bed son, it looks like you may have your hands full keeping an eye on those two tomorrow!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDid you hear that Danny, school! He said we get to go to school!\u201d John said bouncing excitedly on the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I heard, that\u2019s great. Real great. I know you\u2019ll do well,\u201d Danny said not quite as enthusiastic as his brother. \u201cI\u2019m just a little worried about me, that\u2019s all. You know how I am with my letters. They always get turned around. I don\u2019t know if I can do it John.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019ll do fine, you\u2019ll see. What\u2019s to worry about, we\u2019ll be together won\u2019t we,\u201d John said rolling over. He wanted morning to come now more than anything.<\/p>\n John was up before anyone, dressing in his new clothes he was right proud about the way he looked. Combing his hair, he smiled at the thought of being inside a classroom where he could answer questions, and not have to hide every time the teacher came near. What a difference to the life he had just left. He smelled breakfast cooking, he had new clothes, and a bed to sleep in. In a way, he sort of had a new family.<\/p>\n Danny watched as his brother combed his hair. He was happy that his brother would be able to go to a real school. Danny however was quite worried. He couldn\u2019t read or write, he wasn\u2019t nearly as smart as his brother. This was not a day he was looking forward to.<\/p>\n \u201cReady for school already boys?\u201d Ben smiled as he saw the boys already waiting at the table.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Sir, Mr. Cartwright! We sure are ready, I\u2019ve been ready my whole life!\u201d John beamed at the thought of that classroom.<\/p>\n \u201cI expect you to work hard and do your best. No jokes, and no fooling around, you\u2019ve done enough of that, just look at Danny\u2019s head.\u201d Ben said seriously. He worried a little that the boys may get in some trouble.<\/p>\n \u201cNo Sir, we\u2019ll be good.\u201d Danny stated meeting Ben\u2019s eyes. \u201cI promise.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDarn right you\u2019ll be good if my hide is on the line,\u201d said Adam joining the table.<\/p>\n Hoss and Little Joe soon followed, filling the table with the sounds of morning chatter.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen do I get to go to school Pa?\u201d Little Joe flashed his bright green eyes at his father.<\/p>\n \u201cSoon Joe, too soon,\u201d Ben laughed, knowing Little Joe hated to be left out. With his mother gone now, he knew his son would be entering school soon enough.<\/p>\n \u201cWe better get started on our chores if we want to make it to school on time. C\u2019mon on boys Little Joe and I will show you the ropes!\u201d Adam said picking his brother up by the waist of his pants.<\/p>\n \u201cPUT ME DOWN YOU BIG OVERSIZED OX!\u201d Joe shouted at his brother, kicking his feet.<\/p>\n The boys realized they may have been louder last night than they thought.<\/p>\n \u201cPUT ME DOWN, PUT ME DOWN, PUT MEEEEEEE DOWWWNNNNNN!\u201d Joe continued to yell as Adam carried him all the way out to the barn.<\/p>\n \u201cYour down, your down, quit your belly aching!\u201d Adam said laughing at his baby brothers temper.<\/p>\n Little Joe rearranged his pants, and threw a handful of hay at his brother. Adam could really get under his skin sometimes. Danny and John followed laughing at the way the brother\u2019s behaved. Soon they all joined in the fun. Hoss trailed behind recognizing trouble when he saw it. Pa would not be happy with this, and he hated the thought of his father including him in a group tanning.<\/p>\n Hay was everywhere but where it should be. Ben was steaming. He expected this behavior from Little Joe, and maybe even Danny and John; but Adam, he expected more from him.<\/p>\n \u201cWHAT IN THE NAME OF JOHOVA IS GOING ON IN THIS BARN!\u201d Ben shouted at the boys. Everyone stopped in there tracks, eyes open wide.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, um we were just cleaning up, can you believe the mess something made in this barn!\u201d Little Joe said showing his father his best innocent smile.<\/p>\n \u201cI EXPECTED YOU BOYS TO FINISH YOUR CHORES AND BE ON YOUR WAY TO SCHOOL!\u201d Ben boomed.<\/p>\n Danny started shaking, and Ben noticed John step in front of his brother. Adam moved towards the door of the barn to make a silent escape, Hoss had already mounted his horse. Ben lowered his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cNow I realize you boys may not have enough to do in the mornings, so I will gladly assign you more chores this evening, and a new list of chores for the morning. Adam, I expected more from you. You are the oldest in this family, and I expect you to be an example to your new friends there. Would you say you are doing a satisfactory job?\u201d Ben said heatedly towards his son.<\/p>\n \u201cNo Pa,\u201d Adam whispered. He hated when his father was disappointed in him.<\/p>\n \u201cSPEAK UP BOY!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Sir Pa!: Adam said raising his voice an octave. I\u2019ll clean this up right away, Hoss can lead the boys to school, I\u2019ll except the consequences for my tardiness when I get to school.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI was accompanying you boys to school today remember.\u201d Ben said plainly. \u201cBut, you are right, you will get this mess cleaned up, finish the other chores, and except the consequences of your tardiness. Let\u2019s go boys, Little Joe, you\u2019re coming too, ride with Hoss,<\/p>\n \u201cOKAY!\u201d Little Joe exclaimed.<\/p>\n Well that\u2019s just great thought Adam. I\u2019m stuck here with all these chores, and Little Joe gets rewarded by riding into town with Pa. Little Joe started this mess, and here I am cleaning it up. Can\u2019t I be a kid to sometimes without being reprimanded for it? I know I\u2019ll have to stay after school to make up this time, then I\u2019ll be late with the evening chores. I hope Pa doesn\u2019t follow through with his list of extra chores, but he is a man of his word.<\/p>\n \u201cHere we are boys, Joe you stay with me ya hear. I don\u2019t want you wandering off,\u201d Ben said sternly. \u201cHe didn\u2019t sleep well, and now he felt guilty about the way he was treating his boys. He shouldn\u2019t be so hard on them, in fact he should be happy that they are acting as children should act again.\u201d He decided that when he got home, he would help Adam with his chores so he could get to school more quickly, it could take him hours to do the work of the three of them.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is the school, it\u2019s smaller than what we had at home.\u201d John stated matter of factly.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is it alright,\u201d said Hoss smiling. He enjoyed school some, he liked the company of boys his age. Though he wished they would hold classes outside.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, lets go!\u201d John said running inside.<\/p>\n Ben noticed Danny lagging far behind. The boys face had a sadness to it, and wondered if the boy was troubled.<\/p>\n \u201cDanny, what\u2019s the matter?\u201d \u201cDon\u2019t you want to go to school with other children your age?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not very smart Sir, I can\u2019t read or write or nuthin,\u201d Danny said his eyes downcast. \u201cMy brother tries hard to teach me, but I can\u2019t get it. The letters are always jumbled up or turned around, I can\u2019t make them out. I don\u2019t know if I can do it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt won\u2019t hurt to try for a while will it? Give it a month or so, if you don\u2019t like it, we will find a way to make it so you do. Don\u2019t worry so much, remember you now have five people to help you rather than just one,\u201d Ben said warmly, holding the boys shoulders.<\/p>\n Danny in a way seemed much older than his brother, even though they were twins, in a way he reminded him of Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I almost forgot, I have to get home to help him with chores,\u201d Ben thought.<\/p>\n \u201cGo ahead Danny, your brother\u2019s are waiting for you. Mrs. Ida, These boys will be joining you for a spell, this is John, and Danny. They are staying with us on the Ponderosa for a while. Boys, this is Mrs. Ida, she will be your teacher. Goodbye boys, have a good day, I\u2019ll see you this evening. Oh, and Adam will be joining class later, we had a little problem he had to tend to, you won\u2019t be too hard on him for being late will you Misses?\u201d Ben asked smiling, hoping to ease the consequences for his boy.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, Mr. Cartwright, Adam is a good student and a strong boy, I can understand your needing his assistance with matters at the Ponderosa. I will let it go without consequence if you feel that is best,\u201d Mrs. Ida said smiling. She held a special place in her heart for the Cartwright\u2019s.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Ma\u2019am, I feel that is best, thank you. Please excuse me, I have to get going.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLittle Joe, get down from that swing little one, we have to be going,\u201d Ben smiled to his youngest son, who if he went any higher in that swing, it might loop around the tree branch. This one is sure a handful.<\/p>\n Adam heard a horse riding up, it couldn\u2019t be his father already could it? He wasn\u2019t nearly half way through the morning chores.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam,\u201d Ben said stepping up behind his oldest son.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I am doing the best that I can here, I will be done soon enough,\u201d Adam said quietly through clenched teeth. He was not at all happy with his father or himself.<\/p>\n \u201cI know son, I thought we would help you finish.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI would like that Pa, thank you!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa?\u201d Adam stated.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Son,\u201d Ben waited, he knew his son felt guilty about his earlier antics. Ben felt guilty for expecting too much from his young son. He was still a boy after all, he just had a birthday not too long ago.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry for starting trouble earlier, I know how much work we have to do around here, I have no call to go goofing off.\u201d Adam said looking into his fathers eyes for reassurance that he was not angry. Ben had enough to worry about as it was without his son\u2019s antics, Adam felt tears burning in his throat, he swallowed them down quickly.<\/p>\n \u201cNo son, I shouldn\u2019t have been so hard on you, I am happy that you boys are enjoying yourselves again. I should be encouraging you to play more, you\u2019re only young once. I am the one that should be sorry, if your mother was here, she would have lit into me good,\u201d Ben felt his eyes begin to well, he turned away quickly.<\/p>\n Adam saw the tears forming in his fathers eyes and knew no words would help. He hated to see his father suffering, grabbing his father\u2019s shoulder he turned him towards him. They embraced, something Adam did not allow often. It was a short embrace, and Adam walked away before his tears fell.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, head on to school, Joe and I will finish up here. Make sure those two that you brought home don\u2019t get into any more trouble, will ya!\u201d Ben said lightening the air.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa,\u201d Adam said wiping at his eyes with the back of his hands before his Pa could see.<\/p>\n \u201cSo glad you could join us Adam, take your seat please,\u201d Mrs. Ida said to Adam with a hint of annoyance in her voice, though this was more for show to the other students.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Ma\u2019am,\u201d Adam replied sitting quickly and hating that all eyes were on him.<\/p>\n School went on without a hitch, and Mrs. Ida did not mention Adam\u2019s tardiness again. He thought this was strange, but did not want to push his luck by inquiring. John was intrigued throughout the entire class session, he absorbed as much as he could. He could even keep up with the work expected of the older students. Danny however was working with the youngest of the group, and still falling behind. He was not happy at all, as the teacher assigned him the same work as his brother. On the ride home, John chatted endlessly at how much he enjoyed school. He and Adam passed their knowledge back and forth and even got into a discussion about slavery. Hoss listened a while, but was soon day dreaming about being home on the ranch tending to the new born horses. Danny said not a word the whole trip home, he was trying to figure a way out of school, and to think Mr. Cartwright wanted him to go for a whole month. He guessed his teacher was nice enough, but he didn\u2019t want to give it even one more day.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, Hoss, come quick, look what I did for Pa!\u201d Little Joe came running out of the barn.<\/p>\n \u201cAlright Joe, let us settle the horses and we\u2019ll be there!\u201d Adam said smiling, knowing what would come next.<\/p>\n \u201cNO, THERE IS NO TIME FOR THAT! YOU HAVE TO COME SEE NOW, ADAM. C\u2019mon!\u201d Little Joe said grabbing Adam and Danny\u2019s hands.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe,\u201d Adam said pulling backwards on Joe\u2019s hand so he fell back into him. \u201cIt is not polite to grab people\u2019s hands like that, now let go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt is not polite to grab people by their pants Adam, now C\u2019MON!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam laughed, he loved that his brother was getting back to normal. Little Joe had lost a little of his excitement for life when his Ma had died, as did they all.<\/p>\n Joe took the boys into the barn and they saw how the stalls had all been taken care of, the horses tended to, and the saddles hanging neatly.<\/p>\n \u201cYou did this Joe?\u201d Hoss asked with wonder. This was his afternoon chore, it had already been done. He was pleased to say the least.<\/p>\n \u201cI helped!\u201d Joe exclaimed. That\u2019s not all! We took care of the field fences, got the hands working on the lumber for the contract, and fed all the animals.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, that was our evening chores, what does Pa have in store for us then?\u201d Adam asked more to himself than anyone else.<\/p>\n \u201cNot a thing boys; I thought we would ride to town and catch a show,\u201d Ben said gleaming with excitement. \u201cI thought we could all use a vacation day!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut Pa, You said we would have extra\u2026\u201d Hoss was interrupted by a hard slap on the back by Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I guess we better change our clothes then,\u201d Adam said stopping his brother maybe a little to roughly in mid sentence. \u201cLet\u2019s go,\u201d Adam said taking Hoss by the arm.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, you hit me like that again and\u2026,\u201d Hoss was again interrupted by a sharp shove by his oldest brother.<\/p>\n On there way to town, John filled Mr. Cartwright in on their day at school. He talked about how he was able even to keep up with most of Adam\u2019s work. Adam and Hoss played cards on the buck board, and Little Joe sat with his Pa listening to John. Danny had still not said a word. They arrived at the show, and everyone seemed excited as they entered the stage area. Ben had gotten them the best seats in the house.<\/p>\n \u201cLadies and Gentlemen, please take your seats, the show is about to begin.\u201d<\/p>\n Danny, John, Hoss and Little Joe sat mesmerized. They hardly ever got the chance to see a show. Pa told Hoss and Joe that most shows were inappropriate for the eyes of young children, and they watched with a feeling of jealousy as Pa, Adam and Marie went to many a show without them. Now Marie was gone, and everything had changed. Here they all were, together at the show.<\/p>\n John and Little Joe had fallen asleep on the way home. Hoss and Adam sat talking quietly with one another, their conversation Ben could not hear. His two sons did this often, and Ben often wondered what his two sons would speak so privately about. He noticed Danny had not said a word all evening, he could tell something was weighing heavily on the boys mind.<\/p>\n \u201cCare to talk about it?\u201d said Ben to the young boy.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Danny said quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cWas it school?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes!\u201d replied Danny looking away.<\/p>\n \u201cWell?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t do it Mr. Cartwright. I couldn\u2019t keep up with the kids my age; heck, I couldn\u2019t keep up with the youngest class in there. I don\u2019t want to go back, please don\u2019t make me!\u201d Danny said trying not to sound so childish. He covered his face to hide his shame. He felt a arm make its way around his shoulder, and Mr. Cartwright pulled him close.<\/p>\n \u201cIt was only the first day Danny, give it a chance. You\u2019ll catch on, I know you will. Your teacher is nice isn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe\u2019s right nice, I just don\u2019t think I can do it. What if I ask for help and she gets angry with me? John will help, but he has so much of his own work to do. I already have an assignment due Friday, we are supposed to write a biography of our life. I can\u2019t write Mr. Cartwright, and John shouldn\u2019t have to write two papers. I don\u2019t want to cause any trouble. I think it would be better if I just worked at the ranch with you and Little Joe.\u201d Danny said hoping Ben would agree.<\/p>\n \u201cDid you tell the teacher you can\u2019t read or write?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, I didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, don\u2019t you worry, we\u2019ll tell her tomorrow, I have to go into town anyway for some errands, and I know Joe will enjoy the trip. I will have a talk with her, and together the three of us can come up with some solution. We agreed you would try it for a month remember, you are not backing out on an agreement are you?\u201d Ben asked looking at the boy for an answer.<\/p>\n \u201cNo sir, I will try again tomorrow, but I don\u2019t think a month will make a difference. Thank you for talking with her Mr. Cartwright, I really appreciate everything your doing for John and I.\u201d He really liked Mr. Cartwright, and he felt he was liked in return. He could get used to having a real adult around, it took a lot of pressure off of him, as he had tried hard to provide for his brother all these years. Not only did he provide life\u2019s necessities, but he tried to offer advice, and help anyway he could. Now he was the one receiving the help and advice.<\/p>\n Arriving home Adam carried Little Joe to his room. He liked the feeling of holding the small boy in his arms. It reminded him of when Little Joe was an infant, and had been his sole caretaker after his birth when his mother was so sick, and his Pa was away on business.<\/p>\n Ben carried John to he and Danny\u2019s room. He had done as he promised while the boys were at school and brought in an extra bed. Danny followed closely behind, always worrying about his brother. He felt relief when he saw two beds, he liked Mr. Cartwright more and more.<\/p>\n \u201cI think this was a great idea, taking this job and all,\u201d Danny thought. \u201cWe haven\u2019t even had to do much work yet, what a deal!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben lay John down in his bed, and Danny climbed in to his after changing quickly into his bed clothes. \u201cI\u2019ll get my brother changed Mr. Cartwright, I done it often, I won\u2019t wake him up!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, good night then boy. Did you enjoy the show?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt was great, I ain\u2019t never seen a show before, I hope we\u2019ll go again sometime!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sure we will, it is one of life\u2019s great many pleasures.\u201d Ben said leaving the room and closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n \u201cPa,\u201d Adam said quietly standing outside of Joe\u2019s door.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDid you speak with Danny, I noticed he was awful quiet this evening. Did something happen I need to know about , is he okay?\u201d asked Adam, concern clouding his features.<\/p>\n \u201cI talked to him, we are going to get it all straightened out in the morning son, don\u2019t worry,\u201d Ben said holding his sons shoulder. \u201cYou up to start a game of chess? It is a little early yet.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Pa, but I probably won\u2019t be able to finish it tonight. Riding on the buckboard always makes me tired.\u201d<\/p>\n Danny woke up early again. \u201cWith this nice bed, you would think I would sleep in, but I am too worried about that awful school. I hope Mr. Cartwright gets my point across to Mrs. Ida, I am just not smart enough to be in school. I know he\u2019ll make me stay, but maybe I won\u2019t be assigned so much work.\u201d Danny thought to himself.<\/p>\n \u201cYou finished your chores then?\u201d Ben asked as the boys came into the house fetching the items they needed for school.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa, there all done, and we did a good job this time Pa, them boys didn\u2019t fool around none,\u201d said Hoss smiling up at his father, glad that no trouble had ensued.<\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s get going then, we don\u2019t want to be late,\u201d Ben said headed to the door.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, is Little Joe with you?\u201d Adam asked noticing his baby brother missing for the first time.<\/p>\n \u201cNo. He wasn\u2019t helping in the barn?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo sir, as a matter of fact, he didn\u2019t come down for breakfast this morning,\u201d Adam said quickly heading towards the stairs.<\/p>\n Adam was the first to the door.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe, Little Joe?\u201d Adam said swinging the door open.<\/p>\n Little Joe was lying in bed, sweat on his brow. Ben entered the room heading straight for his youngest son.<\/p>\n \u201cLittle Joe, wake up son!\u201d Ben said shaking the boy a little roughly.<\/p>\n Little Joe groaned and opened his eyes slightly. They were full of fever.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I don\u2019t feel too good,\u201d Joe said in a whisper.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s burning up Pa, I\u2019ll have Hop Sing make some tea, and I\u2019ll get the cold water,\u201d Adam said moving into action.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I\u2019m cold,\u201d Joe said trembling.<\/p>\n \u201cYou boys go on to school, we\u2019ll be fine here. I\u2019m sorry Danny, but that talk with your teacher will have to wait,\u201d Ben said smoothing back his sons curls.<\/p>\n \u201cI understand Mr. Cartwright, maybe I can just talk to her myself.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam came back with the cold water and rags, placing the bowl on the table next to the bed.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, do ya want me to stay home? I could get some work done on the ranch while you tend to Little Joe,\u201d Adam said. He hated to miss school, but he hated the thought of falling behind on the ranch work also.<\/p>\n \u201cNo Adam, go to school, the hands can pick up the slack, the ranch will be fine,\u201d Ben said as Hop Sing arrived with the tea.<\/p>\n Adam winced at the thought of the taste of that tea. He dreaded getting sick, as Hop Sing would come up with the nastiest tasting medicinal teas.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa. Little Joe, you feel better you hear,\u201d Adam said pushing back his little brothers curls as his Pa had done.<\/p>\n Adam left to the sounds of his father trying to coax Little Joe to drink the tea, and Little Joe wanting none of it.<\/p>\n The boys arrived to school, and Danny could feel his heart quicken at what he was about to face.<\/p>\n \u201cMrs. Ida, could I speak with you a minute?\u201d Danny asked his teacher quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cSure Danny, what do you need?\u201d asked Mrs. Ida smiling.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, Ya see, I have this problem, I don\u2019t quite know how to explain it. I don\u2019t think I am cut out for school ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDanny, don\u2019t be ridiculous, you seem fine to me. What is the problem you don\u2019t quite know how to explain?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMa\u2018am, I can\u2019t read or write, I try, but the letters get turned around backwards, and I never get them straight. You want me to write a biography, but I can\u2019t do it. I couldn\u2019t do any of the work yesterday, and I couldn\u2019t even keep up with the younger one\u2019s. Like I said, I ain\u2019t cut out for school Ma\u2018am.\u201d<\/p>\n He noticed two boys standing near, they seemed to be listening in to his conversation, and this made him uneasy.<\/p>\n \u201cDanny, I\u2019m sorry, I wasn\u2019t aware you were struggling so. About that assignment, why don\u2019t you stay in today, and you can dictate your biography to me, I will write it out for you, and then we will go over it together,\u201d Mrs. Ida said, trying to hide her sadness for this boys pain.<\/p>\n \u201cThat sounds fine Ma\u2018am. Thank you. But what about the other assignments?\u201d Danny asked glaring at the two boys.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ll worry about that when the time comes. For now, you will have no written assignments due, and I am sure Adam or your brother will read to you all of the chapters you will need to learn,\u201d Mrs. Ida said noticing Danny\u2019s side ways glare.<\/p>\n \u201cCharles, and Michael, can I help you?\u201d Mrs. Ida asked the two boys that were standing near.<\/p>\n \u201cNo ma\u2019am, we were just taking our seats,\u201d answered Charles with a mock smile written across his face.<\/p>\n Danny realized that these boys were going to be trouble. He also knew he was more than capable of handling himself in a fight if it came down to it.<\/p>\n \u201cTake your seat please Danny.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam wondered how Little Joe and Pa were getting along. He had been at school just over an hour, and he just could not concentrate on his work. The teacher had given them time to begin writing their biographies, he was not interested. Biographies about other people had always interested him, but he would rather not write up his own. He felt his past was better left there, as sometimes it was too hard to think of what had happened in his youth. He was gazing around the room when he noticed Danny being taunted from behind by two boys. Charlie and Michael were throwing small wads of paper at Danny, and could tell Danny\u2019s frustration was building. He wondered how Danny would hold his temper. After several minutes, the boys tired of this activity, as they received no response. They began working again on their assignment. \u201cHe handled that well,\u201d thought Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cMrs. Ida, are you ready to work on that biography now?\u201d Danny asked as the other\u2019s filed out for lunch. Charlie and Michael both bumped shoulders with him on their way outside.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m ready when you are Danny, let\u2019s get to work, we\u2019ll eat while we work.\u201d Mrs. Ida said pulling a chair up to her desk.<\/p>\n Adam saw Charlie and Michael both intentionally bump into Danny\u2019s shoulder, and Danny not react. \u201cI think I\u2019ll have a word with those boys,\u201d thought Adam as he headed towards the tree under which both boys were eating.<\/p>\n \u201cCharlie, Michael, nice day isn\u2019t it?\u201d Adam asked getting a feel for the boys.<\/p>\n \u201cSure,\u201d said Charlie, shrugging in response.<\/p>\n \u201cDo you boys have a problem with Danny in there? Is it something you would like to discuss?\u201d Adam asked raising an eyebrow at the boys.<\/p>\n \u201cOur problem is not with you Adam, why you sticking up for that dummy for anyway?\u201d said Michael biting into his sandwich.<\/p>\n \u201cWatch what you say Michael Granger, he is no dummy, and if I hear you say so again you will answer to me! GOT IT!\u201d Adam said trying to hold his temper.<\/p>\n Charlie and Michael stood up at the same time.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat you gonna do about it Adam?\u201d Charlie said stepping towards Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cTake a swing and find out!\u201d Adam said nose to nose with Charlie Granger.<\/p>\n \u201cYou got a fight with my brother, you got a fight with me!\u201d said Michael standing beside his older brother.<\/p>\n Suddenly, Charlie swung his fist, catching Adam in the right temple. Quick as a flash, Adam swung back hitting Charlie square in the nose. The fight was on. Hoss noticed a commotion and looked to see his brother being swung upon by the Granger brothers. Hoss flew into action, he flung both boys to the ground, before they could get up, Mrs. Ida appeared followed by Danny. John appeared beside his brother, he was watching this scene from a far, ready to step in if need be, but not wanting to risk his stay at the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is going on here boys?\u201d Mrs. Ida said stepping in between the boys.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s Adam ma\u2019am, he done broke my brother\u2019s nose,\u201d Michael said pointing the finger at Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cIs this true Adam? Are you the cause of this fight?\u201d Mrs. Ida asked skeptically.<\/p>\n \u201cI simply wanted to talk, Mrs. Ida.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo you did this to Charlie then?\u201d Mrs. Ida asked, her anger increasing with Adam\u2019s short answer.<\/p>\n \u201cI was defending myself Ma\u2018am,\u201d Adam said looking towards the ground. He knew better than to fight at school, he should have left the situation alone as Danny had.<\/p>\n \u201cI would like you to go home Adam, you are not to come back to school today. I will ride out and speak to your father this evening,\u201d Mrs. Ida said surprised at Adam\u2019s nonchalant attitude. \u201cI will be doing the same for you boys. Michael, take your brother over to Doc Martins!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam knew he was in trouble, it was one thing to get into a fight, but to get sent home from school, he knew his father would not be pleased.<\/p>\n Danny watched this scene as Adam walked away. Had he seen what these boys were doing, and went to defend him. Danny had hoped to handle the situation himself after school, he knew it would not be a good idea to fight at school, Mr. Cartwright had told them to stay out of trouble and that was what he intended to do.<\/p>\n Adam rode slowly towards the house, he dreaded a trip to the barn with his father, and he knew it was surely to come. He was more angry at himself for losing his temper, but he had to defend himself. Arriving home, he remembered that Joe was sick. \u201cGreat, Pa will already be frustrated. I guess I should not plan on doing much sitting the rest of this week,\u201d Adam thought to himself.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam what are you doing home?\u201d Ben asked. \u201cAre you sick too? What\u2019s wrong are you feverish?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Pa, I\u2019m fine,\u201d Adam remained looking at the floor.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it then, why are you here?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI sort of got sent home Pa.\u201d Adam said in a whisper.<\/p>\n \u201cSent home for what, AND SPEAK UP!\u201d Ben\u2019s voice full of frustration with his son. This was not like him.<\/p>\n \u201cI got into a fight with the Granger brother\u2019s Pa. Mrs. Ida sent me home. She said she would be by later to speak with you,\u201d Adam said meeting his father\u2019s eyes and looking away quickly.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, PA!\u201d Little Joe shouted.<\/p>\n \u201cYOU MEAN TO TELL ME YOU WERE SENT HOME FROM SCHOOL!\u201d Ben did not take lightly discipline problems at school.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa.\u201d Adam said shrinking under his father\u2019s sharp stare.<\/p>\n \u201cPA, PA.\u201d Joe shouted again.<\/p>\n \u201cYou wait for me in the barn, we will finish this conversation in there boy!\u201d Pa said heatedly as he headed towards the stairs.<\/p>\n Adam slowly walked to the barn, his backside already stung from the thought of the strap. He couldn\u2019t stand the thought of waiting for his tanning, he hoped his Pa would hurry and get it over with. He wondered if the Granger brothers were going to get the same thing. Adam watched his Pa enter the barn; Pa didn\u2019t ask anymore questions.<\/p>\n Adam walked slowly into the house, his backside stinging with each step. He started up the stairs towards his room, but thought better of it, and instead headed out to do some extra chores. It helped to keep his mind busy. Time passed slowly, and finally hearing the approach of the horses, he headed back towards the house.<\/p>\n \u201cHey boy\u2019s it\u2019s about time ya\u2019ll got home,\u201d Adam said not noticing that he was rubbing his backside.<\/p>\n \u201cHe got to ya did he?\u201d Danny asked referring to Adam\u2019s obvious discomfort.<\/p>\n \u201cIt was expected.\u201d Adam stated avoiding the looks of sympathy he received. \u201cI got most of our chores done, if I help you finish up the rest, will you join me in a game of checkers Danny?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure, we can finish up the chores on our own though, why don\u2019t you rest up, you\u2019ll have to teach me the game. I have never played checkers.<\/p>\n The boys heads turned at the sound of another horse approaching.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you need me, I\u2019ll be in my room,\u201d Adam said taking slow steps towards the house to ease the pain, he knew it was his teacher approaching.<\/p>\n Pa saw the boys arrive home, and noticed the obvious pain his oldest was trying to hide. He always felt bad after disciplining the boys, but school was not the place for fighting. He noticed the boys scatter as another horse rode towards the house. It was Mrs. Ida, followed by Mr. Granger. \u201cJust what I need, more trouble.\u201d He checked Joe\u2019s fever once more, convinced it was low enough to not worry. He headed to answer to his guests.<\/p>\n \u201cMrs. Ida, Mr. Granger, please come in,\u201d Ben stated holding open the door.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re here to talk about your son, Ben,\u201d Mr. Granger stated stepping in the house.<\/p>\n \u201cI know that Mr. Granger, what would you like to tell me? Please have a seat,\u201d Ben said leading his guests to the settee.<\/p>\n \u201cYour boy broke my boy\u2019s nose, and Charlie said that the punch was unprovoked!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell Mr. Granger, I understand your feelings of anger, I will pay the Doc for his trouble. As for the punch being unprovoked, that is no concern of mine. Adam has already been punished for this misdeed, and I\u2019ll see to it that he apologizes to your son\u2019s tomorrow sir,\u201d Ben said calmly.<\/p>\n \u201cNo concern of your\u2019s? Your son is a bully sir, and your so called punishment probably makes no difference to him. I would like to give my hand a try at straightening out that boy of yours,\u201d Mr. Granger said harshly.<\/p>\n \u201cI told you, his punishment was already received. As I said, Adam will apologize to your boys tomorrow, and as I think enough has been said, I am asking you to now leave my house sir!\u201d<\/p>\n He didn\u2019t appreciate this man questioning his authority in his own home.<\/p>\n \u201cFine, I\u2019ll be glad to go as soon as your son apologizes to me on account of my having to leave work early to deal with the situation at hand. Those are wages I lost, and cannot get back, and I would like an apology!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cADAM!\u201d Ben bellowed. \u201cGET DOWN HERE!\u201d Ben was losing patience with this man.<\/p>\n Adam made his way down the stairs, he could hear the conversation from his room, was his Pa actually going to make him apologize?<\/p>\n \u201cYes Sir?\u201d Adam said pretending he didn\u2019t know the situation.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Granger says you owe him an apology for the work he missed today!\u201d Ben said glaring at Mr. Granger.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa. I\u2019m sorry you missed work Mr. Granger,\u201d Adam said looking at the floor.<\/p>\n \u201cLOOK AT ME WHEN YOU SPEAK TO ME BOY!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am sorry you had to miss work today SIR,\u201d Adam said staring directly into the mans eyes, and emphasizing his last word.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you taking a tone with me BOY?\u201d Mr. Granger asked stepping towards Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cTake it as you will SIR,\u201d Adam said mocking Mr. Granger\u2019s tone.<\/p>\n \u201cAND YOU SAY HE HAS LEARNED A LESSON DO YOU, LISTEN TO THE WAY HE SPEAKS TO HIS ELDERS!\u201d Mr. Granger said his face full of anger.<\/p>\n \u201cHe did as you asked. You may leave now Mr. Granger,\u201d Ben said opening the door for the man.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re not finished here Mr. Cartwright. If my boys receive any more trouble from your son, HE WILL ANSWER TO ME!\u201d Mr. Granger said slamming the door closed behind him.<\/p>\n Adam stood still waiting to be dismissed, he wasn\u2019t sure if he should stay here, or go back up to his room, he sure didn\u2019t want to risk another tanning.<\/p>\n \u201cMrs. Ida, you wanted to speak to me?\u201d Ben said, waiting for another lecture.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Mr. Cartwright, regarding the incident in school today. I am sorry about Mr. Granger, I stopped by there first to check on the boys and speak to their father. He insisted on coming with me out here. I want you to know his boys have him convinced that Adam has been harassing them all year.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam is this true?\u201d Ben asked acknowledging his sons presence in the room.<\/p>\n \u201cNo sir,\u201d Adam said quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, care to explain?\u201d Ben asked sounding annoyed.<\/p>\n \u201cThey were picking on Danny sir.\u201d Adam said meeting Mrs. Ida\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen Adam? Danny didn\u2019t say anything,\u201d<\/p>\n She couldn\u2019t stand the thought of Danny suffering more at school.<\/p>\n \u201cMany times Mrs. Ida. They were throwing things at him, bumping into him, and calling him Dummy!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, why didn\u2019t you come to me?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI thought I would talk to them about it, make them stop. Charlie took the first swing, I had to defend myself. I wish I would have left it alone, but I didn\u2019t. I would never start a fight intentionally ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, Pa, PA!\u201d Little Joe yelled from upstairs.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s been doing that all day!\u201d Pa said shaking his head. I swear when that boy is sick there is no peace in this house, and now this. Go upstairs and tend to your brother Adam, Mrs. Ida and I can finish this discussion.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, I\u2019m sorry for the trouble Mrs. Ida.\u201d<\/p>\n Mrs. Ida, I am sure my son is being truthful, Adam is not one to lie, and neither am I. Adam has already received his punishment, and I\u2019ll see to it that this does not happen again. Is there anything else I can do for you Ma\u2018am?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cActually there is. Danny came to me today, he is struggling. Adam is one of my best students, and I was hoping you could influence him to take Danny under his wing.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe has already done that Ma\u2018am. Who do you think brought the boys here in the first place?\u201d Ben laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, I didn\u2019t know. Then I will expect Danny will be just fine,\u201d Mrs. Ida said standing to leave.<\/p>\n \u201cGood day, Mrs. Ida,\u201d Ben said walking her out. \u201cI am sorry for the trouble caused by my son today, and I imagine he will feel quite sorry himself for a few days. I left a little reminder on his backside, this should keep him out of trouble at least until Friday!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Cartwright, Adam is a good boy and a great student, if he didn\u2019t mess up once in a while, we would think something must be wrong with him. Take it easy on him Mr. Cartwright, he may act grown, but on the inside he is still a boy trying to take on the role of a man,\u201d Mrs. Ida said with admiration for the Cartwright family. She knew that with all they had been through, they had remained strong.<\/p>\n \u201cQuite now Little Joe, you\u2019re too sick to play, you have to stay here in bed,\u201d Adam said softly trying to coax his brother out of a temper tantrum. \u201cI remember when you were just a baby, you came down with fever. You just cried and cried till I thought the house would cave in. We were just about fed up. Ma started singing this song, and you quieted right down. The song worked every time. Do you remember how it went?\u201d Adam asked remembering Marie, and how much she loved Little Joe.<\/p>\n \u201cCould you sing it Adam?\u201d asked Little Joe, his small hands on each of Adam\u2019s cheeks. He sang out the tune in his smooth baritone voice:<\/p>\n Sweet Sweet Child O\u2019 Mine<\/p>\n Sweet Sweet Child O\u2019 Mine<\/p>\n Your hair and your eyes are so Divine<\/p>\n Sweet O\u2019 Child of Mine!<\/p>\n Sweet Sweet Child O\u2019Mine<\/p>\n Sweet Sweet Child O\u2019Mine<\/p>\n Hush your fussin\u2019 your doing just fine<\/p>\n Sweet O\u2019 Child of Mine<\/p>\n Ben smiled, standing outside of Joe\u2019s room, he heard Adam swooning his brother. Adam and Little Joe tussled a lot, but he knew it was because they were too much alike. Both had tempers that could light a fire on a snowy day. On the inside, they were both Teddy Bears.<\/p>\n Joe fell to sleep, and Adam lay beside him. He had a rough day, and his backside was still burning. He was trying to forget what Mr. Granger had said, he knew it was not the truth, and that bothered him. He did not want to apologize to those Granger brother\u2019s, but he knew his Pa would make him. He fell asleep beside his brother.<\/p>\n Danny felt guilty about what happened with Adam. He knew Adam was fighting over him. He hadn\u2019t asked him to, why should he feel guilty? Danny felt that he was causing an awful lot of trouble here. John seemed to be enjoying himself, but he didn\u2019t feel this was quite the right fit for him. He wanted both a mother and a father. Mr. Cartwright was nice enough, but his booming voice and harsh temper made it hard for him to be comfortable around Mr.Cartwright all the time. Danny caught himself dreaming about Mrs. Ida, and what it would be like for her to be his mother. He liked the idea of that.<\/p>\n John and Hoss were finishing up feeding the animals.<\/p>\n \u201cHoss, do you reckon those boys will mess with Adam again tomorrow?\u201d John asked.<\/p>\n \u201cI reckon so, by the way their pa was actin, I imagine they feel right high and mighty,\u201d Hoss answered dreading the day to come. He hated conflict, and he hated the fact that his brother was hurting, and Joe was sick.<\/p>\n \u201cReckon we ought a be his body guards tomorrow?\u201d John said standing straighter.<\/p>\n \u201cWho? For Adam, he wouldn\u2019t stand for it. Too much pride. Adam can stand up for himself.\u201d Hoss said knowing how angry his brother would be if they got into his affairs.<\/p>\n \u201cHe won\u2019t have to know, we will protect him from a far, at the first sign of trouble, we can step in and remove Adam from the situation!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, if Adam didn\u2019t know, I wouldn\u2019t mind it I guess,\u201d Hoss said wondering how he was gonna pull this one off.<\/p>\n Adam woke beside his little brother. He must have fallen asleep here. He was surprised at how well he actually slept. His first thought was how he was going to avoid trouble with the Granger brothers today. He rose to get started on his morning routine, he stretched out, and shook his head at the sting that remained in his back side.<\/p>\n \u201cNow listen boy\u2019s. All of you. There will be no fighting at school, no matter the situation. Do you boys understand me!\u201d Ben said meeting each boys eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Sir!\u201d the boys each responded.<\/p>\n \u201cGOOD, then finish your chores and be on your way then,\u201d Ben stated standing to check again on Little Joe.<\/p>\n The boys left for school a little early, hoping to arrive before the Granger brother\u2019s. Arriving at school, they noticed they were the first one\u2019s there. Hoss stopped by the swing, and motioned for John to join him. Adam went ahead into the building with Danny, hoping to work a little on his writing.<\/p>\n \u201cJohn, you expect we can keep Adam out of trouble all day?\u201d Hoss asked with worry in his eyes. \u201cPa would be right mad if any of us got into trouble today.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure we can Hoss, we\u2019ll just stay close enough to over hear any trouble started; then if need be we\u2019ll cause a distraction that will end the situation,\u201d John said with reassurance.<\/p>\n \u201cYou boys are here early,\u201d Mrs. Ida said just arriving.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Ma\u2019am, Adam is helping me with my writing, we thought we would get an early start.\u201d Danny said smiling at his teacher.<\/p>\n \u201cWell isn\u2019t this a surprise, what are you doing here Harlen?\u201d Mrs. Ida said to her husband who was standing in the doorway.<\/p>\n \u201cI had some extra time this morning, I thought I would visit, but it looks like you have students already,\u201d Harlen said with disappointment.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s early still. Boy\u2019s, I would like you to meet my husband, Harlen Ida.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMornin\u2019 sir,\u201d replied Danny studying the man closely.<\/p>\n \u201cNice to meet you sir,\u201d Adam replied waiting patiently to return to the work at hand.<\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s step outside, we can visit out there and let these boys keep working,\u201d Mrs. Ida said leading her husband towards the door.<\/p>\n Adam and Danny returned to their task.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t recognize that boy. Danny was his name?\u201d asked Harlan.<\/p>\n \u201cHe is staying on the Ponderosa with the Cartwright\u2019s. Word is that they are from California. They came home with Adam from his last trip on business for his father. I heard their parents had both passed away.\u201d Mrs. Ida said sadly.<\/p>\n \u201cYou said their?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, yes. Over yonder by that tree is his twin brother John. I have the hardest time telling them apart when they are together. I mark down what they are wearing so as not to make a mistake each morning,\u201d Mrs. Ida laughed at the boys striking resemblance.<\/p>\n \u201cTwins huh, and they\u2019re both staying at the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey have been hired on as hands, to help out with the ranch work. I don\u2019t think Ben would work them too hard. They are both such sweet boys, too bad Danny struggles so. I was thinking of bringing Danny home some evenings to tutor him on his subjects, you wouldn\u2019t mind would you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, I wouldn\u2019t mind. What about his brother, will he be bothered by the separation?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t think of that, I could invite him to. Maybe he could help you with some of the chores,\u201d Mrs. Ida wondered what the boys would say.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019ll be fine dear, it looks like your class is arriving, keep your eyes on that situation by the swing over there,\u201d Harlen said standing.<\/p>\n \u201cHeard my Pa lit into your brother last night. Heard he had him so scared he was shakin\u2019 in his boots,\u201d Michael Granger was saying poking at Hoss.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s not what happened! Matter of fact, Mr. Cartwright and Adam stood up to your Pa. He\u2019s the one who left shakin\u2019 in his boots!\u201d John replied back.<\/p>\n \u201cOh YEAH!\u201d Michael said stepping towards John.<\/p>\n \u201cBoys, you better head in for school now, or your gonna miss the bell,\u201d Mr. Ida said stepping in between the two boys squaring off.<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir,\u201d the boys replied.<\/p>\n Mr. Ida put a hand out to stop John from leaving with the others.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat was that all about boy?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo I know you Mister?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, I suppose not. I am married to your teacher, I am Mr. Ida.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNice to meet you sir,\u201d John said trying to go around the man.<\/p>\n \u201cWait boy, you didn\u2019t answer my question,\u201d Mr. Ida said stopping John once again. \u201cYour name\u2019s John right, your staying up at the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir,\u201d John said uncomfortable with all these questions.<\/p>\n \u201cWell?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell what, sir?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat was the issue with you boys here?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, that. No problem really, we were just having a discussion that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA discussion huh? Would this be about the altercation between Adam and those boys yesterday? Seems to me you boys would be better off letting it be, don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir. I\u2019ve got to go, I\u2019m going to be late Mister,\u201d John said trying once again to get around the man.<\/p>\n \u201cYour already late son; I\u2019ll walk you in. My wife was going to ask your brother if he would come by the house tonight to work on his studies. If you don\u2019t mind, I could use your help fixing up some fences around the farm. If your brother accepts his invitation, I would be happy to have some help.\u201d Mr. Ida said allowing the boy to pass.<\/p>\n \u201cSure Mister, if my brother accepts, I will accompany him.\u201d<\/p>\n Mr. Ida nodded to his wife as John entered the room. John took his seat and ignored the quite taunting from the Granger brothers.<\/p>\n \u201cDanny,\u201d Mrs. Ida said as the students headed out to lunch.<\/p>\n \u201cYes ma\u2019am?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI would like you to come by my home tonight, I would like to help you with your studies some, and see if we can\u2019t work out these letters,\u201d Mrs. Ida said holding Danny and Adam\u2019s work from the morning. She noticed most of the letters were written backwards, and some sentences trailed off the page.<\/p>\n \u201cReally, you want me to come to your house!\u201d Danny blushed as he realized he sounded a little too excited.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I would like that very much Danny,\u201d Mrs. Ida replied feeling a tinge in her heart. She and her husband had always wanted a child, but could not conceive. She had miscarried a set of twins a few years ago, and was informed then she would no longer be able to conceive children. She knew the boys situation, and wondered a little if maybe the boys would like them to become their guardians. She thought they enjoyed the Ponderosa, but hated the thought of the boys sweating like hired hands, she wanted them to have a chance at childhood.<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019s that hide of yours Adam Cartwright?\u201d Michael said approaching Adam quickly.<\/p>\n Adam looked up with a scowl. He was sitting under the large oak in the yard reading.<\/p>\n \u201cFine!\u201d Adam stated.<\/p>\n Just then John and Hoss walked up.<\/p>\n \u201cHey, Adam! You wanna come with us to hunt frogs in the creek \u2018till we have to go back in?\u201d Hoss said eyeing the Granger\u2019s.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, Hoss, I would like to finish my book!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Adam. We\u2019ll just sit and keep you company some,\u201d John gave his best smile.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, they\u2019ll just sit a while so they can fight your battles for ya,\u201d Michael laughed elbowing his brother who was awful quite.<\/p>\n \u201cI can fight my own battles boys, and I would be happy to finish this discussion after school lets out!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam said returning to his book, and ignoring his body guards.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can fight your battles now!\u201d Michael said kicking Adams foot.<\/p>\n Adam started to rise, but Hoss pushed him back down.<\/p>\n \u201cNow Adam, remember what Pa said,\u201d Hoss said fearing his brother would receive another tanning.<\/p>\n Adam sat back down, reminded of the burning still in his backside. \u201cI don\u2019t want any trouble with you boys.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell you got trouble Cartwright, trouble\u2019s comin, and you better hope your ready for it, or are you too scared of your Pa to stand and fight like a man?\u201d spoke up Charlie for the first time.<\/p>\n Danny approached the scene quietly, he was tired of these Granger boys. He had come to tell Adam that he would be headed to Mrs. Ida\u2019s house with John after school. Now he was seething with anger as he watched Adam struggle to maintain his temper.<\/p>\n \u201cI told you I will be happy to settle this dispute after school boy\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n Michael reached towards Adam pulling the book out of his hands.<\/p>\n \u201cSettle it now!\u201d Michael said throwing the book into the dirt.<\/p>\n Adam was up in a flash. That was his favorite book, now it was ruined. The pages were bent, and covered in dust. Danny grabbed Adam\u2019s hand just as it flew.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, NO!\u201d Danny said holding onto Adam\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n Adam ripped free of Danny\u2019s grip.<\/p>\n \u201cStay out of it!\u201d<\/p>\n Michael and Charlie began kicking the book back and forth on the ground.<\/p>\n Adam lunged forward knocking Danny down in the process. He got a hold of Michael first. He struck out forcefully knocking the air from Michael\u2019s lungs, then turning towards Charlie. He got a hold of Charlie by the throat and threw him against the tree he was sitting under only seconds before. Mrs. Ida came running and yelled Adam\u2019s name. Adam was not done yet. He pulled Michael off the ground by the shirt collar and punched him square in the face. Then turned his attention to Charlie who he lifted off the ground and slammed up against the tree his fist raised in anger. Danny grabbed his arm before he was able to strike. Mrs. Ida stepped between he and Charlie.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM STOP, settle down now, settle!\u201d Mrs. Ida said reaching out gently touching Adam\u2019s arm. She felt him relax some, noticing the expression in his eyes. She knew he was in trouble. She bent down to pick up the book and handed it to him. \u201cAdam, go home,\u201d Mrs. Ida said quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t,\u201d said Adam. \u201cPa warned me not to fight, I can\u2019t go home. I didn\u2019t listen, I don\u2019t want to go,\u201d Adam said ashamed at how childish he must have looked fearing a beating from his Pa.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can Adam, and you will. It will not be pleasant in the least, but you can take it. Please let your Pa know that I will be over after school,\u201d Mrs. Ida said gently pushing Adam towards the path home.<\/p>\n Adam walked beside his horse home. He knew this would take a lot of time, and hoped that his Pa would be out in the pastures when he arrived. He dreaded explaining to his Pa why he had disobeyed him. He had tried, but had again lost his temper. Arriving home, he saw Pa and Joe in the barn. His heart dropped.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam?\u201d What\u2019s wrong boy?\u201d Ben asked. The look on his son\u2019s face was one he had not seen before.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I didn\u2019t mean it, really! I tried not too, but my book\u2026..I just lost my temper. I didn\u2019t mean it Pa really,\u201d Adam said with dread.<\/p>\n \u201cYou got into another fight son?\u201d asked Ben, feeling dread also.<\/p>\n \u201cI did.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe Granger boys again!\u201d Ben asked his voice rising.<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, you gonna tan Adam again?\u201d Little Joe asked looking sadly at his father.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m afraid I have to son, he disobeyed me,\u201d Ben said speaking to Joe but looking at Adam. \u201cGo in the house Joe, have Hop Sing make you some tea. You still look a little peaked.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir,\u201d Joe said walking slowly. He hated the thought of what his brother was going through.<\/p>\n Ben led Adam again into the barn.<\/p>\n \u201cI wish I wasn\u2019t doing this son, you know that don\u2019t you?\u201d Ben asked a hand on his son\u2019s back.<\/p>\n Adam did not answer.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you think happened?\u201d Hoss asked John after school.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know, poor Adam. It\u2019s not fair, that fight was not his fault. Did you hear the doctor tell Mrs. Ida that Charlie had two broken ribs from hitting that tree? His Pa will be fit to be tied!\u201d John said worrying that Mr. Granger would again return to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n \u201cI heard, lets take the long way home, I don\u2019t mind taking my time today,\u201d Hoss said mounting his horse slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cBoys. John wait!\u201d Mrs. Ida said standing beside the boys horses with Danny. \u201cI would like to ride out with you. The offer is still on the table for tonight John, after speaking with Mr. Cartwright, I would like you boys to come home with me.<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2019m ma\u2019am, we\u2019ll ride along with you.\u201d<\/p>\n Arriving at the house, the boys tended to the horses. Danny was trying to hide his excitement at going home with Mrs. Ida. Sure he felt bad about Adam, but he felt pleasure at the thought of Mrs. Ida and her home.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Cartwright?\u201d Mrs. Ida said looking at Ben who was staring off from behind his desk. Adam had cried during the tanning, this was a rarity, and it had hurt Ben badly to finish the job.<\/p>\n \u201cHello, Mrs. Ida. I\u2019m sorry, I didn\u2019t hear you come in. Please sit down,\u201d Ben said motioning towards the sitting area near the fireplace.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, can I go to the creek with Hoss and catch some frogs, I promise I will finish my chores and help Hoss with his!\u201d Little Joe said.<\/p>\n \u201cGo ahead son, make sure you mind your brother. Will Danny and John be joining you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think so, they said they wanted to get their chores done early,\u201d Joe stated skipping towards the door.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Cartwright, I wanted to see you for a couple of reasons today,\u201d Mrs. Ida smiled at Little Joe as he left. I asked Danny to come home with me to work on his studies some tonight. John was going to accompany him to help out my husband with fixing the fence. That is if you don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t mind, I\u2019ll be glad for the quiet. The boys are no trouble, but the more boys there are, the more noise,\u201d Ben said smiling. \u201cI wanted to ask you about Adam, Mrs. Ida. What caused that fight today? It is not like Adam to disobey me, and he was quite upset.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am not sure Mr. Cartwright, I was in the school with Danny. I didn\u2019t come out until I heard commotion, then I saw Adam throwing Charlie into the tree. I tried to get there in time to break it up, but Adam had already swung on the boys twice more.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWere the boys badly hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCharlie suffered two broken ribs from hitting the tree, and Michael a concussion from a blow he received to the head,\u201d Mrs. Ida said with worry, knowing Mr. Granger was probably on his way to the ranch.<\/p>\n \u201cI see, well if my permission was all you needed for Danny and John, I will see you out. I would like to have the boys gone before Mr. Granger arrives,\u201d Ben said rising.<\/p>\n \u201cI will gather the boys; how\u2019s Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019ll be fine, he is up in his room,\u201d Ben said looking towards the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cMrs. Ida, it is getting rather late, would you mind keeping the boys over night? I am afraid I have my hands full here and will not be able to pick them up. I hate the thought of them riding alone at night.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat will be fine, I will have them gather some things,\u201d Mrs. Ida said heading to the barn where she heard the boys talking.<\/p>\n After everyone had left, and Ben checked on Hoss and Joe at the creek, he headed up towards Adam\u2019s room. He could not rest until he knew all of his boys were okay.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam,\u201d Ben knocked on his son\u2019s bedroom door. \u201cCan I come in?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam did not reply. He opened the door a crack and peeked inside. His son was lying on his stomach, sleeping. Ben sat down beside his son on the edge of the bed. He began softly rubbing his back. Adam woke up, feeling his father\u2019s touch, but did not open his eyes. This went on for a few minutes, then Adam sat up on an elbow and met his father\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cDo you wanna talk son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa,\u201d Adam said quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cI know son, that\u2019s not what I mean. What happened at school today?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know Pa, I was reading my book under the tree and the boys came at me picking a fight. I knew better than to react Pa, but Michael ripped the book out of my hand and threw it into the dirt. I lost my temper Pa. Danny tried to step in to stop me, I think I knocked him down. I just lost it Pa,\u201d Adam said looking out the window.<\/p>\n A horse was approaching quickly.<\/p>\n Mr. Granger stepped off his horse. Ben was descending the stairs as the door to the house flew open, Mr. Granger stepped in the doorway.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Granger, please have a seat.\u201d Ben stated holding his temper.<\/p>\n \u201cHAVE A SEAT, YOUR SON NEARLY KILLED MY BOYS, I WILL HAVE NO SEAT! BRING THAT BOY DOWN HERE, I WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK WITH HIM,\u201d Mr. Granger shouted approaching the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cSTOP RIGHT THERE MR. GRANGER!\u201d Ben shouted blocking Mr. Granger\u2019s path. \u201cI have already dealt with Adam, I am asking you now to leave.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLET ME TALK TO THAT BOY! I WILL NOT LEAVE UNTIL I GET TO DO SO!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNOW YOU LISTEN HERE\u2026\u2026\u201dBen began, but stopped as he noticed Adam standing at the top of the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, its okay. I would like to talk with Mr. Granger,\u201d Adam said heading down the stairs slowly. \u201cMr. Granger, I want to apologize for hurting Michael and Charlie sir. I meant no harm, I lost my temper. I hope the boys are okay.<\/p>\n \u201cOKAY! YOU BROKE MY CHARLIE\u2019S RIBS AND MICHAEL HAS A CONCUSSION, THEY ARE UNABLE TO WORK, AND HOPE YOU THEY ARE OKAY?\u201d Mr. Granger said smacking the banister of the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is what I wanted to talk to you about sir. I would like to help out with the work your boys can\u2019t do. I would be glad to come over after school and complete their chores until they are able to work again.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI suppose that is only right,\u201d Mr. Granger said surprised by the way this conversation was going.<\/p>\n \u201cI will be by tomorrow then, after school,\u201d Adam said looking to his father for approval.<\/p>\n \u201cThat will be fine Adam. Are you sure that is what you want to do son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTHAT\u2019S WHAT HE WANTS TO DO? NO WONDER YOUR SON IS OUT OF CONTROL, OF COURSE THAT IS WHAT HE SHOULD DO, AND YOUR ASKING HIM PERMISSION!\u201d Mr. Granger was astonished at the lack of courage this father had at disciplining his son.<\/p>\n \u201cPa,\u201d Adam said quickly, hoping to stop his father from arguing. \u201cThat is what I should do. Mr. Granger I will be over directly after school tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine, I\u2019ll be expecting you. Don\u2019t expect it to be easy work either!\u201d Mr. Granger said walking towards the door.<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir,\u201d replied Adam closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n \u201cSon, that man is looking for trouble, and you are stepping right into it. You have every right to change your mind. You have received your punishment, and in my eyes you\u2019ve paid your dues,\u201d Ben said feeling quite uncertain about his son stepping foot on Granger land.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be fine Pa, it is my fault those boys cannot work. I can handle it. I have chores to attend, I will be back soon,\u201d Adam said heading out the door.<\/p>\n The door closed behind him, and Ben noticed that his son was walking with a slight limp. He knew it wasn\u2019t easy for him to walk, let alone do physical work after his second punishment in the barn. How was he going to be able to do two boys chores plus his own?<\/p>\n John and Danny arrived at Mrs. Ida\u2019s home. She showed them to the guest room, and Mr. Ida led John out to explore the property. Danny sat with Mrs. Ida in the sitting room.<\/p>\n \u201cThank You for havin us Mrs. Ida,\u201d Danny said smiling. \u201cJohn is real good at fixing things and coming up with new ideas for doing things. I bet your husband will be right pleased.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m glad you could come. I think I\u2019ll start supper, and we can get to work afterwards. If you\u2019d like, you can join your brother outside, I\u2019ll call you when supper is ready.<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2019m, I never had a woman\u2019s home cookin before. I bet you\u2019re the best cook there is Mrs. Ida,\u201d Danny said his mouth beginning to water.<\/p>\n \u201cCall me Charlotte, at school you can call me Mrs. Ida, but here in my home I would like you to call me by my first name.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2019m; Charlotte; that is a pretty name. Thank you ma\u2019am,\u201d Danny said stepping outside.<\/p>\n \u201cI wish I could stay here,\u201d Danny thought to himself. \u201cMrs. Ida would make a really nice Ma!\u201d<\/p>\n The boys were called to supper, and sat down to their meal. Danny and John cleaned their plates in record time, this was the best cooking they ever ate. After supper the boys did the dishes, and Charlotte and Harlen had a chance to talk alone.<\/p>\n \u201cThose boys sure are good workers sweetie, do we have to give\u2019em back?\u201d Harlen said jokingly.<\/p>\n \u201cActually that\u2019s what I wanted to talk to you about. Do you think we should offer them to stay the weekend?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know what it would hurt to ask; tomorrow is Friday and all. They could ride to the Ponderosa tomorrow and get their things. I think having the boys around for the weekend is a swell idea sweetie!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI wish we could stay here,\u201d Danny said to his brother when Charlotte and Harlen were out of sight. \u201cThe Ponderosa is great and all, and the Cartwright\u2019s have been nice, but I always wanted a Ma and a Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, Harlen let me develop new plans for the pig pen, he said we could start building it any time. I loved staying at the Ponderosa, but could you imagine our very own place to stay, with parents! We could still work at the Ponderosa, but come home each evening. But, we don\u2019t even know that Mr. and Mrs. Ida want us around. Who\u2019s to say they would even want us period?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe would love for you to stay,\u201d Charlotte answered standing in the doorway.<\/p>\n \u201cYou would? Sorry ma\u2019am we didn\u2019t know you were there,\u201d John said embarrassed that he had been overheard.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, we would!\u201d said Harlen. \u201cMy misses and I, we always wanted children of our own, but it was not the will of God. You boys are the answer to our prayers, that is if you would have us?\u201d Harlen said watching the boys closely for reaction.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course we\u2019ll have you!\u201d the boys said in unison.<\/p>\n The boys moved in with Harlen and Charlotte the following Monday. That allowed time for the adoption papers to be drawn up. Ben was sorry to see the boys go, it did help take his mind off things, but he was happy to have his family back to normal again.<\/p>\n \u201cJOE, I SAID NO! NOW LET ME BE, I HAVE TOO MUCH TO DO,\u201d Ben heard Adam shouting.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM, I JUST WANT YOU TO COME WITH ME TO HUNT INDIANS IN THE FIELD, JUST FOR A LITTLE WHILE!\u201d Joe whined to his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cI SAID NO, GET OUT OF MY ROOM!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben heard the door slam, and Joe let out a wail.<\/p>\n \u201cOh the sounds of a happy family,\u201d Ben said smiling, heading into the house to settle the latest dispute.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Return to\u00a0Preserving their Legacy Home Page<\/a><\/p>\n
\nThe Graingers<\/a><\/p>\n
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