Summary:\u00a0 The sequel to The Younger Years.
\nRating:\u00a0 PG-13\u00a0 (10,205 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 #2 – The Graingers<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGood morning Adam, you\u2019re up early,\u201d Ben said smiling to his son who was making his way down the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cI have extra chores this morning, remember I start over at the Granger\u2019s place today.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI remember. Can\u2019t say as I am happy about it. I wish you hadn\u2019t offered to help over there. At the first sign of trouble, you head back this way. Understand. That whole family has a problem with you, and you are walking right into it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, it\u2019s the right thing to do. I lost my temper and hurt both of those boys. Mr. Granger can\u2019t take care of the farm alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cStill, that fight wasn\u2019t all your fault. I want you to watch out for yourself over there.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry about me Pa. I can take care of myself. Besides, the work will probably be the same as around here. What more could he ask of me?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s what I\u2019m worried about Adam. People can come up with some rather unpleasant duties.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam quickly made his way through his breakfast, and headed out to do his morning chores. He wanted to get the wood chopped also, so he wouldn\u2019t have to do it that evening. He would still have to feed the animals, and sweep out the barns, but that would just have to wait. He was running late for school now, and Hoss had left without him. He hurried in to gather his things, and rode off towards the school.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, you are late. I expect you to stay after school today, and make up the work you have missed,\u201d Mrs. Ida said to Adam who rushed in taking his seat in the back.<\/p>\n \u201cYes ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam worked quickly on his assignment, as well as the extra work Mrs. Ida assigned him for his tardiness. He knew Mr. Granger would be upset with his tardiness at the farm. He frowned at the thought of answering to that man for his being late. Charlie and Michael were not in school today, after the beating Adam had given them the day before, he didn\u2019t expect them back at least until next week. Finishing both assignments, he lay them on Mrs. Ida\u2019s desk, and hurried towards his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I was waitin\u2019 for ya!\u201d Hoss said standing next to Adam\u2019s horse.<\/p>\n \u201cHoss,, I don\u2019t have time now.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI was wonderin\u2019 if I could come out to the Granger\u2019s with you and help out?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Hoss, Pa needs you home. I gotta go. Thanks for askin\u2019 though.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou need me, YOU LET ME KNOW,\u201d Hoss hollered after his brother who was already half way down the lane.<\/p>\n \u201cWHERE YOU BEEN BOY? I HAVE BEEN WAITING AROUND HERE AN HOUR!\u201d Mr. Granger yelled at Adam as he was dismounting from his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry, I got held up after school. I am ready Mr. Granger, what do you want done first?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cKept after school huh boy. I was right about you, a trouble maker. If\u2019n my boys are kept after school, they would receive a sharp reminder to mind their manners.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, where would you like me to start?\u201d Adam said ignoring Mr. Granger\u2019s comments.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can start by chopping that pile of wood. Then when your finished, you can sweep out the barn. After that, the animals need tended too. In between, you need to start dinner, and fetch some fresh water!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam stared at the pile of wood he was to chop. It was almost as tall as he was. \u201cIt\u2019ll take me all night to finish this wood, I can\u2019t get all of these chores done. What does he mean get dinner started? I have never cooked anything but beans.\u201d<\/p>\n Michael lay in bed and heard his Pa shouting orders at Adam. \u201cServes him right. Laying my brother and me up like this. As soon as I can stand without being dizzy, I am gonna take another shot at whooping him. This time it will be Adam who has the concussion!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam worked quickly chopping the wood. He knew it was getting late, he was sweating something fierce, and was very thirsty.<\/p>\n \u201cBOY!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam looked up from his chopping to see Mr. Granger fast approaching.<\/p>\n \u201cAIN\u2019T YOU DONE WITH THAT WOOD YET!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAlmost Mr. Granger.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDINNER ON YET!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo sir. I didn\u2019t know what you wanted me to cook, and I don\u2019t know where any of the supplies are.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, those would be in the kitchen now wouldn\u2019t they. I don\u2019t care what you cook, but you better make it quick. Dinner is to be on the table in thirty minutes.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam walked into the kitchen. He decided on beans and cornbread, as it was the only thing in the kitchen. He put the beans on the stove, and the cornbread in the oven. He went back out to chop the rest of the wood.<\/p>\n \u201cPA! SOMETHIN\u2019S BURNING!\u201d Charlie Granger was shouting.<\/p>\n Adam ran towards the kitchen. Smoke was coming out of the oven. Adam switched it off and opened the door, sending black smoke billowing into the air. He reached in and grabbed the tray of cornbread, burning his hand in the process.<\/p>\n \u201cAAAAHHHH!\u201d he said jumping back.<\/p>\n \u201cWHAT IS GOING ON IN HERE?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSorry Mr. Granger, I forgot about the corn bread.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI see that Boy! That is just great. What about the beans?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere fine, as a matter of fact, they are ready.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cServe up a plate for each of my boys. Take it to \u2018em. Since there is no bread with our meals, we will need bigger portions of beans. Looks like your going hungry today boy.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam carried the plates into the boys room. They were sharing a bed, and Adam wondered if this was the only bed available.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s about time. We\u2019re near starving to death!\u201d Michael snapped at Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cIS THIS IT? WHERE IS THE CORN BREAD?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMike, please don\u2019t yell. I have a mighty head ache. You can have my beans, I ain\u2019t hungry none anyway,\u201d Charlie whispered.<\/p>\n Adam looked at Charlie, and noticed how pale he looked. He was sweating, and his lips were white. He felt a tinge of guilt seeing how much pain Charlie was in. He had two black eyes, a broken nose, and busted ribs, all on account of Adam.<\/p>\n He walked out of the room and headed out to the barn. He tended the animals, swept out the stalls. It was dark now, and he knew it was pretty late. He dreaded the work he still had at home waiting. He headed towards the well to get the fresh water, and paused a minute to get a drink.<\/p>\n \u201cYou got that water yet?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir. I\u2019m getting it right now.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLooks like your drinkin\u2019 it to me. You want a drink of water, you can get it from the creek. This water is for me and my boys. I don\u2019t want it tainted with the likes of you drinking from it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHere is your water sir. If there is nothing else, I will be headed home.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBefore you go, I would like you to sweep out the house. Then you need to wash the dishes out. After that you can go. I expect you back here tomorrow AND ON TIME!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam watched as Mr. Granger strolled back into the house. He sighed, snuck another drink, and headed in to sweep the house.<\/p>\n \u201cHA HA HA HA!\u201d Michael was standing in the doorway leaning against the frame pointing at Adam. \u201cWhat do you know, a Cartwright doing woman\u2019s work.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam ignored him, and finished sweeping. He started on the dishes when Michael slowly walked over beside him. Adam had stacked the dishes next to the sink. He saw Michael pick up one of the plates, and watched wide eyed as Michael threw it on the floor shattering it.<\/p>\n \u201cWHAT WAS THAT!\u201d Mr. Granger ran in to the kitchen and grabbed Adam by the collar. \u201cCAN YOU NOT DO ANYTHING RIGHT BOY?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe did it on purpose Pa. I watched him throw it. He was letting out a string of curse words when I came in, and then he threw the plate at me when he noticed me watching. It bounced off my chest, and landed here on the floor Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYOU GOT SOME NERVE BOY! WELL I WILL TEACH YOU HOW TO BEHAVE IN THIS HOUSE.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam watched as Mr. Granger went for the strap hanging on the wall.<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Granger, it\u2019s not true. Michael dropped the plate. I\u2019ll clean it up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDAMN RIGHT YOU\u2019LL CLEAN IT UP. YOU CALLIN\u2019 MY BOY A LIAR NOW?\u201d<\/p>\n Mr. Granger reached out and pulled Adam outside. He pushed him against the side of the house. Adam felt the sting of the strap, and thought about what his Pa would do if he saw the lines on his back. He struggled against Mr. Granger\u2019s mighty hold, but to no avail. He could hear Michael laughing in between the blows he was receiving. He closed his eyes, and flattened himself against the wall of the house for support. He wondered how many times he had been hit now. He thought Mr. Granger was never going to let up.<\/p>\n \u201cTHAT OUGHTTA TEACH YOU BOY! YOU ARE IN MY HOUSE, YOU WILL FOLLOW MY RULES. I WILL PROVIDE THE DISCIPLINE YOUR PA IS SO LACKING. You will behave appropriately in my presence. DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME BOY!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam turned slowly facing this man who had just tanned him. He looked at the ground when he answered.<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGO HOME BOY! BE BACK HERE TOMORROW ON TIME, OR YOU WILL GET IT AGAIN. YOUR IN MY HOUSE NOW SON!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam mounted his horse, and headed towards home. His back was stinging, but not near as much as his pride. How would he tell his Pa what happened? He couldn\u2019t, his Pa would kill Mr. Granger if he found out. Though Adam was angry, and would love to see Mr. Granger pay, he kept picturing Charlie. He felt guilty, and knew he would go back tomorrow, he felt he was at least making it up to Charlie. He arrived to the house, and stabled his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cWHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I was at the Granger\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo you know WHAT TIME IT IS?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCan\u2019t say as I do Pa,\u201d Adam was whispering, trying his best to hide the pain he was in from his over observant father.<\/p>\n \u201cIT IS PAST TEN O\u2019CLOCK. I expected you home hours ago. In fact, I was on my way to saddle up Buck when I heard you coming.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSorry Pa. I worked as fast as I could. There was a lot to do. I am doing the work of two boys.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTomorrow I expect you home no later than eight o\u2019clock. You tell Mr. Granger I said so. Hoss and Joe have done your chores this evening. They will not do them again. You chose to take on this responsibility and I will not have your brother\u2019s suffer for your choices.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI understand Pa, I\u2019ll tell him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood! Have you eaten then?\u201d<\/p>\n Ben reached out and patted his son\u2019s back. Adam stepped forward quickly, hoping his father didn\u2019t notice his avoidance.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa, I am really tired. I just want to go up to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood night then Son.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam made his way up the stairs. He had received three tanning\u2019s in three days, and his body was feeling the strain. He lay on his stomach and fell to sleep quickly. He woke to Hoss shaking him awake.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, wake up! You are gonna be late. You already missed breakfast. Hop Sing is hoppin\u2019 mad.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat time is it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe have ten minutes before we need to leave for school!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDamn!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, don\u2019t let Pa hear you say that. Get up quick. I didn\u2019t mention anything to Pa, he left about a half hour ago. Joe and I did your morning chores, now c\u2019mon we got to go!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Hoss. I\u2019ll be down in a few minutes. I won\u2019t make us late. Just wait on me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll wait as long as I can brother.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam jumped up and dressed quickly. He wouldn\u2019t have time to shave. He had missed breakfast this morning, and didn\u2019t have supper last night. His stomach growled in protest as he grabbed an apple and headed out the door. He and Hoss rode to school quickly. They took their seats just as the bell rang.<\/p>\n \u201cTake out your tablets. I would like you to write an essay over the chapters you were to read last night, covering the Revolution.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGreat!\u201d thought Adam, \u201cI forgot to read the chapters. This week is just going wonderfully!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey Adam, wanna ride out to Mill Creek tomorrow and do some fishin\u2019 with us? My Pa said he would love if you Cartwright\u2019s would join us!\u201d Danny said smiling at his old friend.<\/p>\n \u201cCan\u2019t, got a lot of work to catch up on. Thanks anyway Danny. Tell your Pa I\u2019ll go next time. I gotta get out to the Granger\u2019s, see you Monday.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s better boy. I thought maybe a good tanning would shape you right up. Get down off that horse. We have a fence to put up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow was school today boy?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat did you learn today then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAbout the revolution sir. We talked about the Boston tea party.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI see, and that interested you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt did, I was actually born in Boston. I love to hear about it\u2019s history.\u201d Adam smiled. He was actually surprised that Mr. Granger reminded him of his father some.<\/p>\n \u201cHow is Charlie, Mr. Granger?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s okay. Got a fever he\u2019s fighting, but he\u2019ll pull through.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry about Charlie sir. I didn\u2019t mean for this to happen. Has the doctor been out to check on that fever?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t have money to call on a doctor boy. He will be fine, he has had fevers before. Don\u2019t you worry about my Charlie none, he is tough. Michael is the one I worry about. He has a short fuse.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know. I mean\u2026..excuse me sir, I mean no disrespect.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam saw a look come into Mr. Granger\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cAND WHO ARE YOU TO TALK ABOUT A TEMPER BOY?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know sir. I\u2019m sorry. I meant no disrespect.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGet to work on that fence.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Granger, my Pa said I have to be home by eight o\u2019clock.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, then I guess that\u2019s what your gonna have to do boy.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSon, I was starting to get worried. I was more than willing to go drag you off of Granger land myself,\u201d Ben said meeting his son in the barn.<\/p>\n \u201cHe said eight o\u2019clock was fine. He even lectured me on the importance of listening to my father\u2019s orders. He seems to think I don\u2019t follow rules well.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe treating you right son? Did you get something to eat?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah. Pa do you think it would be alright if I ask Hop Sing to make a meal for me to take tomorrow? The Granger\u2019s don\u2019t have much to eat at their house, and Charlie could sure use some good food to help him kick this fever. Beans and corn bread just aren\u2019t cutting it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat would be fine. Charlie has a fever you say. Has the doctor been out?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Pa, Mr. Granger can\u2019t afford it. That\u2019s why I was hoping maybe Hop Sing could make some of his special tea.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou have a good heart on you son. I don\u2019t know if I tell you often enough, but I am proud of you.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam had a beat back in his step. His mood had improved, and he looked forward to going out to the Granger\u2019s today. He would be late because he had to stop out at the ranch to get the food, but he thought Mr. Granger would understand.<\/p>\n \u201cYOU\u2019RE LATE!\u201d Mr. Granger shouted as Adam rode up on his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry Mr. Granger. My Pa asked me to stop by before coming here. He wanted me to bring this as an offer of his condolence for my behavior this past week.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam handed the heavy basket of food to Mr. Granger.<\/p>\n \u201cHe did huh. Well this looks like a mini feast boy. Let\u2019s start on this before it gets cold. Take a plate into Charlie, Michael can join us at the table.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf you don\u2019t mind sir, would you mind if I sat to dinner with Charlie?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t mind if Charlie doesn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCharlie, I brought you some dinner,\u201d Adam said sitting carefully on the bed beside him.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not hungry,\u201d Charlie said trying to roll away.<\/p>\n \u201cI have chicken, potato\u2019s and corn here. You sure about that?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhere did we get all that from? I thought it was more corn bread and beans.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy Pa sent it over. It is a peace offering.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I guess I am a little hungry then. Could you help me sit up a little?\u201d<\/p>\n Charlie gasped at the pain he felt in his ribs. Three ribs were broken, and he felt as if he were being stabbed from within.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry, I didn\u2019t mean to hurt you,\u201d Adam said letting Charlie lay back down.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, you did hurt me!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Adam. I\u2019m sorry, it wasn\u2019t really your fault, the fight I mean. Mike and I started it. I can\u2019t really blame you. Adam, I wanted to talk to you about Mike. He is out to get you. The only reason I am telling you this is because you have earned my father\u2019s respect. Watch out for Mike, he thinks this situation is all your fault, and he refuses to accept any responsibility for it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know. Charlie, he broke that plate the other night on purpose. The night your Pa laid into me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe told me he was going to do that. I thought it was a good idea. But then, when I heard the sound of the strap, I knew it wasn\u2019t right. I know what it is like to get blamed for something you didn\u2019t do. Before you came along, Mike blamed everything on me. I have been on the other end of that strap many times before because of something Mike had done. I wanted to tell Pa, but I am afraid of what Mike will do if he finds out I told.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry about it Charlie. I can handle a strapping once in a while. Here now, eat this chicken. Your Pa may tan me if he thinks you won\u2019t eat because of me.\u201d That would be my fourth tanning this week.\u201d Adam smiled and gave Charlie a bite.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, tomorrow I have to go into town. Were you planning on coming by around the same time?<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, maybe a little earlier since school is out. I wanted to finish that fence. I was looking at the north pasture, and noticed that it has a tendency to flood. I developed a plan on how to get that water to run away from that area, I would like to get it started if you had no other plans for me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf you tend the stock, and finish the fence, I wouldn\u2019t mind. Maybe Michael will be up to helping a little.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Mr. Granger, see you tomorrow then.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWHAT DO YOU THINK YOU\u2019RE DOING?\u201d Michael said standing watching Adam digging a long ditch on the North Pasture.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m digging a ditch, then I will lay down some pipe, and the water that normally floods this land will run down away from it, and stop the flooding.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa know about this?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I mentioned it yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou think you are so smart, coming around here bringing fancy food and fancy ideas. You think we have forgotten what you done, you ain\u2019t so smart after all.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think you would forget. Now excuse me, I have work to finish.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam watched as Michael walked away. He wondered how he had gotten off so easily. He expected more trouble from Michael. \u201cWhatever!\u201d he thought. \u201cI got enough to do without worrying about Michael Granger.<\/p>\n \u201cCARTWRIGHT!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam heard Mr. Granger shouting, and he did not sound pleased. He headed towards the house to find out what the problem was. He was worried it may be Charlie.<\/p>\n \u201cYes Mr. Granger?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI TOLD YOU TO TEND TO THE ANIMALS, AND THE BARN. LOOK AT THIS MESS!\u201d \u201cI did Mr. Granger, I saw to them first thing, then I went out to start on the ditch in the north pasture.<\/p>\n \u201cTHEN HOW DID THIS HAPPEN? DON\u2019T YOU KNOW HOW TO TEND TO A BARN BOY. YOU HAVE TO LOCK UP THE ANIMALS.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI thought I did Mr. Granger.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCLEAN THIS UP! NOW!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Granger I can\u2019t, it\u2019s nearly eight o\u2019clock. I have to be going sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOH NO YOU DON\u2019T. YOU ARE THE CAUSE OF THIS MESS, AND YOU WILL CLEAN IT UP. YOU WILL JUST HAVE TO ANSWER TO YOUR PA WHEN YOU GET HOME LATE.\u201d I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll be easy on you. That\u2019s how you got the way you are in the first place. I have a good mind to tan your hide now, just to be sure you get it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPA!\u201d Charlie called from inside the house.<\/p>\n \u201cDON\u2019T JUST STAND THERE. GET TO WORK! I\u2019M COMING CHARLIE!\u201d<\/p>\n It was nearly eleven by the time Adam rode up to the Ponderosa. He stabled his horse, then went to work in the barn. He still had to sweep out those stalls, and make sure the animals were tended to. He walked into the house at one in the morning. No one was up, and he was thankful for that. He had a massive head ache, and couldn\u2019t stand a lecture from his Pa tonight. He fell into bed clothes still on, laying on top of the covers.<\/p>\n \u201cGet out of this bed young man!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben Cartwright was standing over his son, frowning at the fact that he was unchanged, unwashed, and still had his boots on in bed. Adam woke up with a start, and fell off the side of the bed landing on his father\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n \u201cOuch, Damn\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat did you just SAY?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI said, I am\u2026\u2026out of bed Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou did not come into this house until one o\u2019clock this morning. I told you to be here by eight o\u2019clock. Now you tell me why I should not take you to task!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe animals got loose Pa, they trashed the barn. Mr. Granger made me stay and clean it up myself. I didn\u2019t even get started until eight o\u2019clock. I told him I had to get home, but he said it was my fault it happened, and I would just have to answer to you when I got home. I\u2019m sorry Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDidn\u2019t you lock up the animals son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI thought I did. Actually I have a feeling that Michael had something to do with it. But, Mr. Granger would have none of that, and I wasn\u2019t up to causing more trouble for myself. I had no proof.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I will let you slide this time, but not again! Get out of those clothes, and wash yourself. After that, see Hop Sing for new sheets for your bed. Hoss, Joe and I had planned a picnic this afternoon at the lake. I would like you to accompany us.<\/p>\n \u201cThanks Pa, but I can\u2019t. I have work to do at the Grang\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYES, THE GRANGER\u2019S. Son, everyone deserves a day off once in a while. Don\u2019t let them take advantage of you. I am starting to feel like this is simply a bed and breakfast for you. From now on, you will be spending Sundays on this ranch with US!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam?\u201d Is that you,\u201d Charlie called from inside the house.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah Charlie, it\u2019s me. Where\u2019s your Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe and Mike went out to Miss Turner\u2019s. We go every Sunday, and spend the morning. Pa is sweet on her. She may end up being our Ma.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, did he leave instructions then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust the usual. Adam, I know what Mike did yesterday in the barn. I hope you didn\u2019t get into too much trouble with your Pa. Hey, did you bring any more of that tea?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure did. You look better today Charlie. Here, I brought some biscuits and gravy for you too.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTHANKS ADAM! Actually I feel better today to. I think the fever is gone, and I sure am getting my appetite back.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI gotta get to work Charlie. I was hoping to finish digging that ditch today so I could get the pipes in.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI bet in a week or so, I will be able to leave this bed a bit. I was hoping maybe you could help me keep up with my school work. I know you\u2019re smart, and Mike never helps me. I am pretty lost with this numbers assignment.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be glad to help. In fact, I will help you before I leave tonight, and then I can turn it in for you tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSounds good. Thanks, and thanks for the food. It\u2019s delicious.\u201d<\/p>\n He laid the pipe in the ditch, and filled in the hole. The Granger\u2019s had been out all day, and it was around seven o\u2019clock now. He had fixed lunch for he and Charlie, and did a fine job with the corn bread. Now he and Charlie were eating supper and working on the numbers assignment when they heard the Granger\u2019s ride up.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam!\u201d called Mr. Granger.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, sir?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDinner ready?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I put it in the stove to keep it warm.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood. You finish your work?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I completed that ditch for you too. I hope it works out.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019s Charlie?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHis fevers gone, he is eating well. I was helping him with his numbers assignment, then I have to get.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI understand. Take the day off tomorrow, I have plans with Miss Turner. Michael can do the chores.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, thank you! I\u2019ll finish up with Charlie, and then head on.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood night son.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI get the day off Pa, Mr. Granger made plans with Miss Turner, sounds like it was a family affair.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s good son. It\u2019ll be nice to have you around for a change.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I am starting to miss those brother\u2019s of mine, Little Joe has probably forgotten who I am.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh No, he has spent plenty of time going through your room. I am sure he still remembers you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPA!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I want to talk to you about your school work lately. Did you even read those chapter\u2019s about the revolution?\u201d Mrs. Ida asked stopping Adam before he could head out for lunch.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, I didn\u2019t. I was out at the Granger\u2019s helping out with the work, and I forgot all about it. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, it\u2019s not just that assignment, all of your work has been rushed through. I can\u2019t give you good grades for those. I will have to set up a meeting with your father if your work does not improve soon.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI understand ma\u2019am. I will work harder, I know I haven\u2019t been doing that well.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, maybe you need to talk to Mr. Granger, see if he could lighten your load a little. You have to do your school work. It\u2019s important.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes ma\u2019am, I\u2019m sure we can work something out.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood, tell you father hello for me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes\u2019m, I will. How are Danny and John doing?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey are doing fine. Sometimes they can be a handful, but what boys aren\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know ma\u2019am, your asking the wrong boy!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cADAM, WANNA PLAY?\u201d Little Joe asked following his brother out to the barn.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you want to do Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow about we play cowboys and Indians, I\u2019ll be the cowboy, you be the Indian and I can tie you up.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about Hoss?\u201d Adam asked pulling his brother into the game.<\/p>\n \u201cHE CAN BE MY HORSE!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben watched as his three sons romped around the yard laughing. Hoss was running around with Little Joe clinging to his back. Adam was whooping and hollering like an Indian, and chasing them around. The boys were playing near the well, and Ben felt uneasy. What if Joe fell off of Hoss, he could fall down the well. He started towards the boys. He watched as Hoss took a running start at Adam. He didn\u2019t move in time, and Hoss slammed directly into him. Adam fell backwards, and straight down the well.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPA! HELP ME UP!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHoss, what were you thinking. Adam hold on, I\u2019ll lower the rope, we\u2019ll pull you up. Are you hurt son?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think so Pa, just wet. Hoss, you big jerk!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam, I thought you would move. An Indian would have sense to move out of the way of a charging horse!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben and Hoss pulled together bringing Adam soaking wet out of the well. Little Joe laughed hysterically at his brother who was dripping wet.<\/p>\n \u201cI oughtta skin you boy!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam took a menacing step towards his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I didn\u2019t do it on purpose c\u2019mon now. It\u2019s Joe\u2019s fault anyway, his idea.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss was backing away quickly, hands in the air.<\/p>\n \u201cJOE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPA, help! He\u2019s gonna try to drown me again Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, go upstairs and change, leave your brother\u2019s alone.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam headed upstairs, laughing to himself on the way up. \u201cWhat a way to spend my day off!\u201d He had just removed his shirt when he heard a knock on the door. He didn\u2019t have time to turn around before his father came in.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I brought you this shirt, I got it in town. The shirt is rather warm. Tonight would be a\u2026\u2026., what is that on your back?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam spun around quickly to face his father.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat Pa? Did I scratch it up on the way down the well?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, it looks like strap marks.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, must have been from the day I fought with Michael and Charlie.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2018t understand how you could get strap marks on your back during a fight.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMusta been, what else could it be from. Don\u2019t worry Pa, it doesn\u2019t hurt,\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs there anything you need to tell me son? Did Mr. Granger have anything to do with this?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Pa, I didn\u2019t know there were any marks at all.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHere is your shirt, it\u2019s nice and warm. When you get changed, c\u2019mon down for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGreat, just great, I lied to him. At least he won\u2019t go and kill Mr. Granger. I don\u2019t need any more trouble from them, that\u2019s for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBoys, after dinner, I would like to go to the lake. We can get some fishing in before bed time. It is not often that I get to spend time with all three of my boys anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam knew his father was feeling guilty. He wanted to tell him the truth, but knew it would just cause more trouble.<\/p>\n \u201cSure Pa, sounds great.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI LOVE FISHIN\u2019 PA!\u201d Little Joe shouted bouncing in and out of his chair \u201cJoe, we\u2019re fishin, you gonna stick your pole in the water?\u201d Hoss teased.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s too cold for swimming Little Joe, I expect you to stay dry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Pa, I know what fishin\u2019 means. I have some bugs we can use in my jar upstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think I ever seen Joe go fishin\u2019 before Pa, unless you consider him a fish doing all that swimming.\u201d Hoss laughed at the thought of his little brother with fins and a fish face.<\/p>\n \u201cHurry and eat boys, we want to get some good fishing in tonight. Adam has to start back at the Granger\u2019s tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood morning boys. Sleep well?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine Pa.\u201d Hoss said rubbing his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cSeen Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe wasn\u2019t in his room, and he left his door open. Little Joe headed straight in there.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLITTLE JOE, GET DOWN HERE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHoss, you just had to tell him didn\u2019t ya!\u201d Little Joe said, a scowl on his face as he took his time coming down the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cJoe, you know how Adam feels about you going in his room without permission.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe left the door open Pa, to me that is permission.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I doubt he feels the same way!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhere is he Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMust of left early to get his chores done. He\u2019s going out to the Granger\u2019s today. I hope those boys get up and around soon.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I kinda miss older brother.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYour gonna be late again Adam, we have to ride out!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGo ahead Hoss, I have to finish this assignment. I\u2019ll be done soon.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat ever you say Adam, I\u2019ll try to cover for ya if\u2019n you want me to.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, she won\u2019t buy it. I\u2019ll be in soon. You better get going.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss sighed, he wished things were back to normal. He was always uncomfortable when either of his brother\u2019s were in trouble, and lately Adam had found a lot of it.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry Mrs. Ida, here is my assignment.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYour late again Adam. I want you to stay after school today, and this evening \u201cYes ma\u2019am. I won\u2019t be there though, I have to go out to the Granger\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes Adam, you won\u2019t need to be there. I hope you understand I don\u2019t want to cause you trouble, but I talked to you about this already.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know Mrs. Ida.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMr. Granger, sorry I\u2019m late. I had to stay after school today. I came right out.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou had to stay after school again? Didn\u2019t your Pa teach you better than that last time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, looks like I\u2019m in for another lesson about it tonight, Mrs. Ida is riding out to speak to him.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGet to work then. Michael started on the wood, he is fine for working now. Did you enjoy your day off?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure did, Pa took us fishing. I caught a big trout, a good eight inches long.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSounds nice. Charlie asked about you yesterday. When your done with your chores, go in and see him. He wanted to speak to you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBOUT TIME YOU SHOWED UP, I BEEN PRETENDING TO SWEEP OUT THIS BARN FOR AN HOUR NOW!\u201d Michael said sitting on a hay stack.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you mean pretending?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I ain\u2019t gonna do it. That\u2019s what your around for.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAin\u2019t my job, your Pa said you\u2019re to do it. I was assigned other chores.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t care what Pa said, I asked you to do it, you don\u2019t and I\u2019ll cause you trouble for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI DON\u2019T HAVE TIME TO DO IT, I TOLD YOU HE GAVE ME OTHER WORK.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHave it your way then,\u201d Michael said.<\/p>\n He rushed at Adam knocking him into the wall of the barn. Adam pushed him off him, and tried to make it out the door. Michael stepped in front of him, and tried to wrestle him to the ground. Adam pushed him to the floor and raised his hand, he realized what he was doing, and stood up. Michael jumped up and punched him in the stomach. Adam fell back into the hay, and stood up quickly. Michael picked up a shovel and raised it in the air.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t do it Michael, put it down.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMake me!\u201d<\/p>\n Michael swung the shovel towards Adam, but he ducked out of the way. He grabbed the shovel from Michael and tossed it outside. Michael rushed him again, Adam moved out of the way.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m gonna kill you Cartwright!\u201d<\/p>\n Michael rushed him again, catching him in the stomach again with his knee. Adam felt a sharp pain rush through his body. He dove for Michael, losing his temper he caught him in the left eye.<\/p>\n \u201cPA! HELP, HE\u2019S TRYING TO KILL ME!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam stayed on the floor holding his stomach. His ribs were aching, and he thought one may be broken.<\/p>\n \u201cWHAT\u2019S THIS BOY\u2019S?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, he came in here looking for a fight, he wouldn\u2019t let me out of the barn.<\/p>\n He tried to hit me with that shovel, but I tossed it out the doors!\u201d \u201cYOU HIT HIM AGAIN BOY!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam gasped for breath as pain seared through his body, he was sure his ribs were injured.<\/p>\n \u201cNo sir. I mean, it was self defense, he came at me. I tried to leave, he wouldn\u2019t let me. Not my fault,\u201d Adam said in short panting breaths.<\/p>\n \u201cIT\u2019S NOT TRUE PA, HE\u2019S A LIAR. HE IS ALWAYS TRYING TO CAUSE TROUBLE. HE FOUGHT WITH ME ALL YEAR. HE HATES ME PA!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam remained quiet, holding his stomach. He started hard at Michael, but was concentrating on breathing through the pain. He watched as Mr. Granger removed the belt from his pants.<\/p>\n \u201cLooks like you need another lesson boy. You are going to learn to let other\u2019s alone. I will not put up with you bullying my son\u2019s. Now turn around boy!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t Mr. Granger. I didn\u2019t do anything. Please, just let me go home.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, you\u2019ll go home alright, after I finish this tanning, and you finish your chores, as well as Michael\u2019s. I think your Pa will be waiting to talk to you about that visit from your teacher! Trouble maker, that\u2019s what you are. Well, you cause trouble around here, and you will answer to me. TURN AROUND, OR I WILL TURN YOU AROUND!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam headed towards the barn doors. He was done here, all he wanted was to get home. Mr. Granger grabbed him and threw him towards the wall. Adam tripped over some hay bales, and fell to the ground landing hard on his injured side.<\/p>\n \u201cPlease Mr. Granger, just let me go,\u201d Adam whispered, the wind knocked out of him.<\/p>\n \u201cSTAND UP!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t. My side. Please, just let me go.\u201d<\/p>\n Mr. Granger pulled Adam up and pushed him against the door. He pulled back the strap and began to swing when Charlie walked up beside him.<\/p>\n \u201cPA WAIT, HE IS TELLING THE TRUTH. MIKE STARTED IT. DON\u2019T WHIP HIM PA!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCharlie, what are you doing out of bed? You shouldn\u2019t be out here. GO IN THE HOUSE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t do it Pa. It wasn\u2019t his fault. Listen to me Pa. We started the fight at the school, not Adam. We were picking on Danny, and Adam took up for him. Pa, he didn\u2019t do anything wrong other than defending himself. If you want to whip somebody, whip me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI SAID GET IN THE HOUSE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPA!\u201d<\/p>\n Charlie cried out when he heard the snap of the belt. He watched as his father continued to strike out at Adam. He watched as Adam held his breath, and reached to hold onto anything to support himself. Then he watched helplessly as his Pa walked out of the barn throwing his belt down beside Adam.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I tried to stop him. You heard me right? He just never listens to me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGotta finish my chores Charlie,\u201d Adam said struggling to stay on his feet.<\/p>\n \u201cNo Adam, just go home. It\u2019ll only get worse now. When Pa gets in these moods, he will sometimes come back to give another beating. That\u2019s why he left his belt here. When he is through he always puts his belt back on. You need to leave now Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGot too much to do.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam reached out for the rake. He started raking out the old hay, which was Michael\u2019s job.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, you need to go. Your hurt, I hear your breathing. Go home!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam threw down the rake.<\/p>\n \u201cGET OUT OF HERE CHARLIE AND LET ME FINISH MY WORK! NONE OF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF IT WEREN\u2019T FOR YOU AND YOUR BROTHER. YOU HAVE A PART IN THIS TOO CHARLIE GRANGER.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam watched as Charlie\u2019s eyes filled with tears. He didn\u2019t care. He just wanted to go home. He bent to pick up the rake, but was brought to his knees by the stabbing pain in his side.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGET OUT!\u201d<\/p>\n Charlie slowly walked out of the barn. He went back to his room and sat on his bed.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat was that Charlie?\u201d Michael whispered harshly. \u201cYou taken up for a Cartwright over you own flesh and blood!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt isn\u2019t right Mike. He has done everything he could to help out here, and you been against him at every turn. Now he has a broken rib, and been whipped twice. Probably gonna get it again before the nights through with the mood Pa\u2019s in.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood, deserves it. You forget what he did to us. I am doing this for you Charlie.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThis is not for me. Nothing you do is ever for me. I\u2019m sick of you Mike. I am gonna keep telling Pa the truth until he finally believes me.\u201d<\/p>\n Michael punched his brother in the stomach laughing as his brother fell to the floor gasping for air.<\/p>\n \u201cTalk to me that way again, and I\u2019ll make sure you ain\u2019t able to talk no more brother!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam finished his chores, and started for his horse. He knew it was well past eight o\u2019clock. He mounted his horse, and gripped the saddle to stop himself from falling off. His side was aching, and he was having trouble breathing.<\/p>\n \u201cWHERE IS THAT SON OF MINE? I WARNED HIM ABOUT THIS, I TOLD HIM TO BE HOME BY EIGHT O\u2019CLOCK.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHere he comes Pa!\u201d Little Joe said heading towards the door.<\/p>\n \u201cJOE, YOU STAY HERE! ADAM AND I ARE GOING TO HAVE A LITTLE TALK.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPA, I WANTED TO SEE ADAM!\u201d Little Joe whined.<\/p>\n \u201cI TOLD YOU EIGHT O\u2019CLOCK ADAM. IT\u2019S NEAR TEN!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam struggled off of his horse.<\/p>\n \u201cYour teacher came by earlier, and informed me that your school work has been sloppy, and you haven\u2019t been turning in all of your assignments. Now you come strolling in here late. I AM TIRED OF THIS!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam walked his horse into the barn.<\/p>\n \u201cI want you to stable that horse, then come back here. We are going to have a little talk. I think you need to be reminded who is in charge here AND I CAN TELL YOU IT IS NOT MR. GRANGER!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam remained quiet. Stabling his horse, he walked back to where his father stood. He was numb now, he wasn\u2019t seeing straight, and he was fighting a strong feeling of nausea. He stopped in front of his father who was waiting strap in hand. He turned slowly, and reached out for the wall. He stumbled forward, and fell into it. He thought how nice it felt to lean on something. \u201cAdam?\u201d Ben asked turning his son to face him.<\/p>\n \u201cPa,\u201d Adam said and felt himself sink to the floor, his world went black, and he welcomed it.<\/p>\n \u201cWake up Adam, what is it son?\u201d<\/p>\n He flickered his eyes open, and pushed himself away from his father. For a minute he thought it was Mr. Granger.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, what is it? Talk to me son!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I\u2019m right here.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhere am I?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn the barn, you passed out son. You\u2019re sick. How long have you felt this way?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m fine Pa.\u201d \u201cAAAAHHHH, Pa don\u2019t. Let me be!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, what is it? What is wrong with you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGET AWAY FROM ME!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLEAVE ME ALONE. I CAN DO IT MYSELF, LEAVE ME ALONE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSon, I am helping you into the house whether you like it or not. AND DON\u2019T RAISE YOUR VOICE TO ME!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben reached out towards his son again. He pulled him again to his feet. He watched as Adam winced, and struggled to stay on his feet.<\/p>\n \u201cDON\u2019T TOUCH ME, I CAN DO IT MYSELF!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, what is going on here. You can barely stand!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019M FINE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI WILL HELP YOU IN THIS HOUSE IF I HAVE TO CARRY YOU! NOW QUIT FIGHTING ME ADAM!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam relaxed in his father\u2019s grip as much as he could. His head was aching, and he was afraid he was going to throw up again.<\/p>\n \u201cPa stop, Adam whispered feeling the nausea rising again. Pa, I\u2019m,\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n He couldn\u2019t finish his sentence. He threw up again, he continued heaving until he thought he would pass out. The pain in his stomach was so severe, he welcomed the thought of passing out. His father stood, holding him up, rubbing his back trying to ease the suffering his son was going through. Adam was struggling to get out of his father\u2019s grasp. He was hurting him, his back felt raw, and it felt like his father was rubbing away bits of skin.<\/p>\n \u201cGet off me!\u201d Adam whispered harshly.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, stop fighting me now. I need to get you up to bed!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHoss, help me get Adam to bed, he\u2019s bad sick. I don\u2019t know if it\u2019s the flu or what.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDAMN IT PA, LET ME GO!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, we\u2019re trying to tell help you. Settle down,\u201d Hoss said grabbing his brother\u2019s arm to put around his shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cAAAAHHHH, LET GO!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I think something is wrong with him other than being sick. Let me carry him Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss lifted Adam off of the ground and cradled him in front of him. Adam relaxed, and let his brother carry him in. Hoss started up the stairs, and Adam paled.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t do it Adam. You need me to put you down?\u201d<\/p>\n It was too late. Adam vomited again. Hoss felt the warmness of it, then grimaced as his skin went cold.<\/p>\n \u201cDad burn it Adam, I oughtta drop you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLay him down Hoss. Adam, I need you to talk to me. Are you hurt somewhere, was it the Granger\u2019s? WHAT HAPPENED?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLet me be Pa, I\u2019m fine. Just a little sick that\u2019s all. Musta eaten something bad. Just need to sleep. Please, just let me sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, at least let me get these clothes off of you, your covered in vomit.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNO, LET ME BE! I CAN DO IT MYSELF. GET OUT OF HERE! I DON\u2019T NEED YOUR HELP!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou better be glad your sick boy. Fine, you want to do it yourself, do it. I\u2019ll check on you later. We will talk about your behavior tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam lay still. He was surprised at the way he had spoken to his father. It was like he could hear himself talking, but didn\u2019t feel like it was real. His side was hurting, and he thought he may throw up again. He drifted in and out of consciousness never making it out of his filth covered clothes.<\/p>\n \u201cYou going to school today Adam? You feeling better?\u201d<\/p>\n Hoss was standing over his brother shaking him gently.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I\u2019m coming, just give me a minute. My head hurts, could you get me some powder?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure Adam, I\u2019ll get you some. You sure you\u2019re well enough to go? You look terrible.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe powder please, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam tried to lift himself off of the bed, but fell back into the pillow from the pain. He gritted his teeth, and pushed through it. He put his feet on the floor, steadied himself and stood. He unbuttoned his soiled shirt, and threw it on the floor. He bent to get a shirt from his drawer, and nearly fell. Struggling he got the shirt over his back, and buttoned it up. He struggled through the pain to pull on fresh pants, and felt his eyes watering as he put on his socks and boots. Hoss came in with the powder as Adam was wiping his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I think you should stay here today, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLet it be Hoss!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBrother, stay here. Pa has a scowl on his face, which is bad news for all involved, and you are in no shape for another talking to.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be down in a minute. I need to shave and brush my teeth, Go on ahead to school if you need to. I don\u2019t want you late on account of me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGO!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou decided to get up today son?\u201d Ben asked sharply unsmiling.<\/p>\n \u201cI gotta go Pa, I\u2019m late.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe need to have a discussion Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, please, I need to go. We can talk when I get back from the Granger\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYOU ARE NOT GOING TO THE GRANGER\u2019S, YOU ARE SICK. I WANT YOU HOME DIRECTLY AFTER SCHOOL!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have to go to the Granger\u2019s, I gave my word and I intend to keep it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCome here son.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI said come here.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam walked slowly towards his father.<\/p>\n \u201cSit down.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I really need to go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHEY ADAM, I THOUGHT YOU WERE GONE! You feeling better today? I heard you getting sick last night. You eat something yucky?\u201d Little Joe talked excitedly to his brother.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, I ate something yucky Joe. What are your plans for the day?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cADAM, I AM SPEAKING TO YOU! SIT DOWN!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I gotta go.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam turned and walked as quick as he could out the front door.<\/p>\n \u201cGET OFF THAT HORSE, I AM NOT FINISHED TALKING WITH YOU!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPa, I have to go to school, I am already late.\u201d<\/p>\n Ben reached up and pulled his son from the horse. Adam shouted at the pain that erupted throughout his body.<\/p>\n \u201cLET GO OF ME!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI told you I wanted to speak with you, and you will do as I say.\u201d \u201cWHAT? WHAT IS SO IMPORTANT THEN?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou lower your voice when you speak to me boy.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, why you yellin\u2019 at Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSTAY OUT OF IT JOE!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, if I have to ask you again to lower your voice, you are going to regret it.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam looked away from his father. He was shaking with anger, guilt, pain, and fear. He had never stood up to his Pa this way. He didn\u2019t know why he was so angry with him, it was the Granger\u2019s he was upset with.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI want to know what happened last night, and why you insist on continuing at the Granger\u2019s. It seems to me that you are worn out, and your school work is suffering,. Your chores done half heartily, and you are hardly eating.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNothing happened. I have to go to the Granger\u2019s because I gave my word. As for school and my chores, I will do better. I really need to go. I am sorry for my behavior, I didn\u2019t mean to take it out on you. Please Pa, I need to go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine, go. But, I want you home tonight, ride out to the Granger\u2019s and tell them you are taking tonight off. They can make do without you for one day. Now GO!\u201d Ben said playfully smacking his son on the back.<\/p>\n Adam was not ready for the playful smack, and as he was hit, he fell to his knees, causing pain to swirl throughout his body. He drew in a sharp breath and fell onto his hands and knee\u2019s.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM!\u201d Ben shouted kneeling next to his son.<\/p>\n Adam focused on breathing in and out. It felt as though his rib had punctured his skin. He felt his father begin to unbutton his shirt. Adam started to fight him off.<\/p>\n \u201cNO, LET ME ALONE.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, what\u2019s wrong? Don\u2019t fight Pa, he is trying to help.\u201d Little Joe was crying, sitting next to his brother rubbing his back in a circular motion. Adam turned on him, pushing him backwards hard. Little Joe fell back and hit his head on a rock. He cried out loudly. Ben continued unbuttoning his son\u2019s shirt, and Adam swung out at him.<\/p>\n Adam could no longer see. He felt hands all over him, and fought as hard as he could. He could hear his father in the distance, and couldn\u2019t understand why he wouldn\u2019t help him.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM STOP!\u201d Ben grabbed his son\u2019s arms and held them tight. Finally Adam relaxed, and was blinking his eyes at him.<\/p>\n \u201cLet me go Pa, you\u2019re hurting me. Why are you doing this? YOU\u2019RE HURTING ME!\u201d Adam struggled against his father\u2019s strong hold.<\/p>\n \u201cStop fighting son. Stop fighting. I just want to look at you. I\u2019ll let you go, just settle down.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, you hurted me, ouch, my head.\u201d Little Joe was sobbing.<\/p>\n \u201cLean against me Adam, I need to get this shirt off.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam was too tired to fight now. He did as his father said and leaned against him. He was struggling to breath now, and all the fight was out of him. He reached out to Little Joe, trying to grab his hand. Little Joe grabbed his instead, and held it tight.<\/p>\n Ben looked a his son\u2019s battered body. He saw severe bruising over the entire left side of his body. He knew his son had internal injuries. He then examined his back and saw more bruising, and broken skin that could only come from a hard lashing from a belt. Ben pulled his son close to him, he felt his son\u2019s body go rigid.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you tell me son? Why would you let this go on?\u201d Ben was crying now. His tears staining his son\u2019s bruised body. Adam didn\u2019t speak nor move, he lay still, Little Joe holding his hand.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, he definitely has a broken rib. It has punctured his skin, which is what is causing the bruising. He has a small infection in his back, and it will need to be watched carefully. You say Mr. Granger did this?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam didn\u2019t say so, but there is no other way it could have happened. He\u2019s been helping out on the farm since the fight. He came home last night late, and I yelled at him. I started to give him a tanning, and he had vomited. I didn\u2019t know he was hurt, he said he had eaten something bad, now look at him. I should have known. Adam never disobeys me on purpose. I am going out to Granger\u2019s and he will pay for what he has done to my son.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo Ben, you will let the sheriff handle it. Otherwise you will be in a mess of trouble, and Adam needs you now.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHE BATTERED MY SON, AND YOU WANT ME TO LET THE SHERRIFF DEAL WITH IT!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTHAT IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO DO!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam lay still, listening to the doctor and his Pa arguing. This is exactly what he did not want to happen.<\/p>\n \u201cPa, don\u2019t go out there. I don\u2019t want you to go. I caused enough trouble already. Please stay with me. Please!\u201d Adam blinked back tears as he spoke quietly to his father.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM, I\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPlease Pa, stay with me!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSon, I\u2019ll stay. Just lie still now. I\u2019ll let the sheriff handle it, don\u2019t worry. You need to sleep now. Close your eyes son. Sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI WANT HIM ARRESTED NOW ROY! HE HAD NO RIGHT TO LAY A HAND ON MY SON!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe don\u2019t know it was him Ben. He denies ever touching him, and Adam hasn\u2019t said he is the one who did it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHE DID IT, WHO ELSE COULD IT BE ROY?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBen, we need Adam to say who it was, I\u2019ll come by the house tonight, and ask him some questions. I can\u2019t arrest Mr. Granger without having proof of committing a crime.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCome now, to the house. Adam will tell you what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine Ben, let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam son, wake up. Roy is here to ask you some questions.\u201d<\/p>\n Adam opened his eyes, and met the eyes of the sheriff.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I need you to tell me what happened.\u201d \u201cAdam, look at me boy. Who did this to you?\u201d<\/p>\n He looked back at the sheriff, his lips held tight. He didn\u2019t want to cause the Granger\u2019s any trouble. Charlie would be the one to suffer. If his Pa went jail, then Charlie would be sent away, who would he live with?<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, talk to the sheriff. He has to know what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU CAN\u2019T! YOU\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBen, wait outside please. I would like to speak to Adam alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFINE!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben stormed out of the room slamming the door behind him.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, son, what happened out at the Granger\u2019s? Are you afraid, is that why you won\u2019t tell me. Your safe here, no one can hurt you son.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not afraid.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen talk to me son, what happened to you?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam stared out the window ignoring the sheriff.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, what if I ask you yes or no question will you nod at the correct answer?\u201d<\/p>\n Adam continued staring out of the window.<\/p>\n \u201cDid Mr. Granger cause those marks on your back?\u201d The sheriff moved on receiving no answer.<\/p>\n \u201cDid he hit you in the stomach and cause your rib to break?\u201d He sighed, he could tell Adam was not going to talk. He felt dread at telling Ben that there was nothing he could do unless Adam started answering some questions. He walked out of the room to speak with Ben.<\/p>\n The door to Adam\u2019s room slung open sharply.<\/p>\n \u201cYOU WILL TELL THE SHERIFF WHAT HAPPENED, AND YOU WILL TELL HIM NOW! ADAM, DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME. WHY ARE YOU PROTECTING HIM AFTER WHAT HE DID TO YOU? ANSWER ME!\u201d<\/p>\n Adam looked towards the wall. He felt like crying, but would not allow himself to do so. He had tried to do right in a bad situation, and things had gone from bad to worse. He knew he would never tell what had happened, and he hoped eventually his father would forgive him of that.<\/p>\n \u201cADAM, TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED!\u201d<\/p>\n Ben watched helplessly as a single tear fell from his son\u2019s eyes and rolled down his cheeks.<\/p>\n Adam was laid up for about a month before he was allowed out of bed. It was another month before he was able to go to school. He arrived back to school, and noticed Charlie and Michael\u2019s horse\u2019s already there. He walked ahead of Hoss into the building.<\/p>\n Charlie saw him first, and stood up.<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, I\u2019m really sorry about what happened. I wanted to come out to see you, but I knew that wouldn\u2019t be a good idea. You doing okay?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine Charlie. Thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere is one thing I wanted to ask you. Why didn\u2019t you turn my father in? The sheriff was out several times, but nothing ever happened.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat was there to say Charlie?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam, my Pa and Michael hurt you bad, what do you mean what was there to \u201cI hurt you bad, and I didn\u2019t go to jail.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, but that was a school yard brawl, that is different. My pa he\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe nothing Charlie, let it be.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut Adam, I don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t need to understand. It\u2019s over. All of it, me and you, Michael, the whole thing. It\u2019s over, let it go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAdam\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTake your seats class, open your readers to page eleven. Welcome back Adam.\u201d Mrs. Ida smiled.<\/p>\n Adam refused to speak with Charlie about the incident after that. Charlie tried, but each time Adam would just walk away. Michael avoided Adam at all costs. He was afraid he had a beating coming, and wanted none of it.<\/p>\n Adam refused to speak about the incident again, and eventually, things went back to normal. His father would try occasionally to bring up the situation, but Adam would say not a word about it. He finally gave up and let the issue rest. They saw Mr. Granger in town a few times, and Adam would politely tip his hat then look away. Mr. Granger would leave town quickly, and Adam would talk of other things.<\/p>\n Ben watched his son tip his hat to Mr. Granger and smile. He was boiling inside, but for his son\u2019s sake, he did his best to avoid conflict. He knew one day Mr. Granger would have to answer for what he had done, and that would have to do. Ben looked to the heavens, and said a silent prayer that the Lord at least would hold Mr. Granger accountable. He put an arm around his son and squeezed him close, he finished loading the supplies and together they road back to the Ponderosa.<\/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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\n\u201cBorn in Boston huh. I have a brother in Boston. Named Charlie, I named my boy after him.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nAdam saw the barn was a disaster. The animals were loose, manure was everywhere. Feed bags were torn open, with feed spilling out onto the ground.<\/p>\n
\nat the dinner table.<\/p>\n
\nI will have to ride out and speak with your Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nMr. Granger lifted Adam off of the ground.<\/p>\n
\nSuddenly he felt a sharp sting on his rear. He gasped. He had forgotten he was here for another tanning. He felt extremely dizzy, and felt the vomit rise in his throat. He felt another sharp sting, and that was it. He bent forward vomiting on the floor of the barn. His father stopped mid swing.<\/p>\n
\n\u201cYOU ARE NOT FINE, YOU ARE LAYING IN YOUR OWN VOMIT ON THE FLOOR OF THE BARN. Here, let me help you stand up. This is a heck of a way to avoid your tanning son,\u201d Ben smiled sadly grabbing his son\u2019s arm and lifting him up.<\/p>\n
\nBen released his grip on his son, but stood nose to nose with him.<\/p>\n
\nAdam looked away.<\/p>\n
\nsay?\u201d<\/p>\n