{"id":56804,"date":"2025-05-03T21:57:52","date_gmt":"2025-05-04T01:57:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=56804"},"modified":"2025-09-27T05:39:58","modified_gmt":"2025-09-27T09:39:58","slug":"a-lesson-in-art-appreciation-by-djk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=56804","title":{"rendered":"A Lesson in Art Appreciation (by DJK)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: Little <\/span>J<\/span>oe and his friends just wanted to see the new painting in <\/span><\/span>The Red Dog <\/span><\/span>saloon before the ladies of the town could have it <\/span>destroyed<\/span>, and a<\/span>ll they needed was a watertight plan.<\/span> <\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Rating: T\/PG 13 <\/span>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/span>Word count: 4,4<\/span>14<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

A Lesson in Art Appreciation<\/strong><\/p>\n

by DJK<\/p>\n

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

\u201cLittle Joe, have you ever seen a female with no clothes on?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe Cartwright raised up on his elbows and looked at his friend. \u00a0\u201cYou mean no clothes at all, nothing?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNot a stitch.\u201d \u00a0Tuck\u2019s inquiry was clear. \u00a0Little Joe thought about saying he had, but that would be a lie, and Joe seldom lied to his friends. \u00a0He sat up and turned in the wagon bed to face his friend.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNah. \u00a0There ain\u2019t ever many females on the Ponderosa and what with knowing there are so many menfolk around, the ones that have been were real careful to only get naked behind locked doors.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat about you, Mitch?\u201d \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo, the onliest female around our place is my ma, and she\u2019s a real private lady.\u201d \u00a0Mitch gave his friends a challenging glare. \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cOf course, your ma\u2019s a lady.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe placated. \u00a0Actually, he had both admiration and affection for Emma Devlin\u00a0as she always treated him maternally. \u201cWhat about you, Tuck?\u201d <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMy mama\u2019s a lady too.\u201d \u00a0He bowed up but then deflated and sighed. \u00a0\u201cOnly female I\u2019ve seen without clothes is my baby sister, and she isn\u2019t but five.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhy are ya asking about seeing naked females?\u201d \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cJust wondering.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMust be a reason you\u2019ve suddenly started wondering?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, I guess I\u2019ve been wondering about it since I heard my mama and Widow Werther talking.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe\u2019s brow furrowed. \u00a0\u201cYour ma and the Widow Werther were talking about seeing naked women?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo, not about seeing naked women!\u201d \u00a0Tuck huffed. \u00a0He rolled his eyes. \u00a0\u201cThe widow and my mama were talking the other day when the widow came visiting.\u201d \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd you were eavesdropping.\u201d Mitch made the statement a verbal poke.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo.\u201d Joe and Mitch both gave Tuck raised eyebrows of disbelief. \u00a0 \u201cNo, really, well, not at first anyway. \u00a0At first, I was just hearing things now and then through the open window, but then…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThen what?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThen I heard Widow Werther say the word <\/span>naked,<\/span><\/i> and I started paying some attention. You would have too!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe shrugged and leaned forward. \u00a0\u201cProbably. \u00a0Who did she say was naked?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNobody. \u00a0She wasn\u2019t talking about a real person. At least not around here. \u00a0 Of course, there would have been a real naked lady somewhere but not anybody we\u2019d know.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Mitch rolled his eyes. \u00a0\u201cI ain\u2019t even sure I know what in blazes you\u2019re talking about.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, if you\u2019d quit interrupting…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cJust get on with the telling, Tuck, and you hush, Mitch. \u00a0Now, what were they talking about exactly.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThe picture that <\/span>The Red Dog <\/span><\/i>just put up. \u00a0The widow thinks it\u2019s an abomination and an afront to every decent woman in the town. \u00a0It\u2019s a painting of a naked woman lying full out and large as life showing all her lady parts. \u00a0She said it\u2019s six feet long.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cShe\u2019s seen it!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, no, but she heard about it from them that has. \u00a0Maybe your brothers have, Joe.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe snorted. \u00a0\u201cThey wouldn\u2019t tell me if they had. \u00a0You know how they are about me being too young for most anything interesting.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYea. \u00a0Golly, do you think it\u2019s true?\u201d \u00a0Mitch\u2019s tone declared his desire that it was.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI don\u2019t think the Widow Werther is one to be funnin\u2019 about paintings of naked women.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe shook his head. \u00a0\u201cGolly.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cIt\u2019s true. \u00a0They talked about it a good bit. \u00a0The widow wants to get the ladies organized and have them see to it that the painting is destroyed or at least put some place folks can\u2019t see it, but she said the sheriff told her that there ain\u2019t no law against painted ladies not having on clothes, not even a town ordinance, so if Ted \u00a0Hoolihan thinks a painting of a naked lady will bring in revenue, then he can hang one up and hope men come in to gaze on it as they drink their beers.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cRevenue?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThat\u2019s what she said. \u00a0I looked it up. \u00a0It means money, profits.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMy brothers hardly ever go in <\/span>The Red Dog. \u00a0<\/span><\/i>They say that Hoolihan waters the beer.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe appeared to consider the situation. \u00a0\u201cThey might go in to see a painting like that though, so Hoolihan may be right about that revenue business.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019d pay to just sit and drink plain water.\u201d \u00a0Mitch\u2019s statement was laced with frustration. \u00a0\u201cDon\u2019t \u2018spect he\u2019ll let anybody our age in at all.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNaw. \u00a0City ordinance says nobody younger than fourteen can stay in a saloon.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe sighed. \u00a0That\u2019s almost a year I\u2019ll have to wait.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Mitch let out a great guffaw. \u00a0\u201cYour Pa ain\u2019t gonna let you go alone to a saloon when you\u2019re fourteen, and I can\u2019t see him, Adam, or even Hoss taking you to one with paintings of naked ladies.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe bristled. \u00a0\u201cI got more chance than you. \u00a0Your ma ain\u2019t gonna allow even your pa to take you- should he even want to- not when you\u2019re fourteen, not when your twenty.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Mitch simply snorted and started to pout. \u00a0Joe was right; he would still have to sneak around to go to a saloon like that even when he was twenty-one.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, my papa won\u2019t be taking me; that\u2019s for sure since he won\u2019t be going himself. \u00a0He has his reputation to think of.\u201d \u00a0Tuck slumped against the side of the wagon bed and sighed. \u00a0\u201cIt wouldn\u2019t be as good as seeing the real thing, but it would be better than nothing.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou don\u2019t think…\u201d Mitch paused as Little Joe began shaking his head not only to indicated that they had no hope of seeing the painting but to warn him of Adam and Hoss\u2019s approach.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHowdy, boys. \u00a0How are things going with you and yours?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Mitch and Tuck both informed Hoss they and their families were doing well as they scrambled down from the wagon. \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAre we headed home straight off?\u201d \u00a0Little Joe addressed his inquiry to Adam.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, we should be.\u201d \u00a0Adam waited for his little brother\u2019s protest, but none came. \u00a0He felt Hoss bump his shoulder, shrugged, and smiled. \u00a0\u201cBut I don\u2019t think staying just long enough for a cool sarsaparilla would be a problem. \u00a0How about I treat the four of you boys?\u201d \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhy not!\u201d \u00a0Hoss, having caught the reference to his age, slapped his brother\u2019s back with enough force to rock the man.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYea!\u201d \u00a0The shout erupted from three young throats as the boys took off running. \u00a0Adam shook his head and followed more sedately with Hoss.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

\u201cAdam.\u201d \u00a0His brother\u2019s voice came from behind Adam\u2019s head.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat, Little Joe?\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0Adam did not bother to turn his head but kept his eyes on the road.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou saw lots of paintings and statues, and other art stuff when you was back East, didn\u2019t ya?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cUmm, I suppose I did, at least compared to what is available here in the territory.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe made his voice softer and more conspiratorial. \u00a0\u201cDid any of the folks in that art ever not have any\u00a0clothes on? \u00a0You\u2019ve said before how some of them Greeks and Romans and such didn\u2019t wear much of nothing sometimes.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam cleared his throat and exchanged a glance with Hoss. \u00a0\u201cWell, it\u2019s true that the Greek civilization, the Roman too, had a different view of nudity. \u00a0They thought highly of the beauty of the human form and depicted it often in their art.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSo, you\u2019re saying that some of the art you saw had naked people in it?\u201d \u00a0Little Joe had learned enough vocabulary from his brother to follow Adam\u2019s thoughts even when he was not familiar with all the words used.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes, Joseph, some of those depicted were unclothed, but that was more likely to be gods, goddesses, and other mythical beings than mortals.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd some of them mythicals were female?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNot mythicals, mythical beings.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMythical beings then. \u00a0Some of them were female and naked?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam sighed. \u00a0\u201cYes, some of them were naked.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd anybody could look at them naked women as much as they wanted?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, yes, but…\u201d Adam stopped the horses and turned to look at his baby brother. \u00a0\u201cJoseph, looking at classical art, well, there\u2019s a difference.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat kind of difference?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, umm, there\u2019s a certain refinement, an elevation of the subject, a different kind of appreciation…\u201d \u00a0Adam rolled his eyes at the confusion on Joe\u2019s face and the chortled laughter seeping from Hoss. \u00a0\u201cJust take my word for it; there is a difference.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd nobody, even ladies like Widow Werther, think that classical art is an abomination even when folks is naked?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, there may be a few overly Puritanical people, but the majority would never consider a classical painting an abomination.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoss cleared his throat. \u00a0\u201cAny special reason you\u2019re bringing the Widow Werther into the conversation, Short Shanks?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The tumblers rolled into place in Adam\u2019s mind. \u00a0\u201cWhat did you hear in town?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe shrugged. \u00a0\u201cGuess I did hear something about a painting in <\/span>The Red Dog <\/span><\/i>and the widow wanting it gone.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI might have known. \u00a0Joseph, the painting in <\/span>The Red Dog<\/span><\/i>…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou\u2019ve seen it!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam ignored Little Joe\u2019s exclamation. \u00a0\u201cThat is of no concern to you. \u00a0Suffice to say, you Joseph Francis Carwright, will not be gazing upon that particular piece of art for many years to come. \u00a0Many, many years.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYeah, little brother, Pa\u2019d have apoplexy at the thought.\u201d \u00a0Hoss raised his finger and shook it beneath Little Joe\u2019s nose. \u00a0\u201cDon\u2019t you go getting no notions. \u00a0Adam and me ain\u2019t gonna cover for ya over this: no how, no way.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe snorted. \u00a0\u201cWhy!\u201d \u00a0The wailed syllable grated on both his brother\u2019s ears.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cJust know that we both stand with Pa on this subject and be forewarned. \u00a0 Ted Hoolihan knows that the ladies are already on the warpath. \u00a0The last thing he wants is them hearing that he has allowed any innocent boys of your tender years to enter and gaze. \u00a0They might take it into their heads to go Carrie Nation and take an axe to his investment. \u00a0 Take heed and spread the word to your friends: <\/span>The Red Dog<\/span><\/i> is off-limits to anyone under fourteen and most likely to many boys older than that.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe gave another snort, glared at Adam and then Hoss, and settled down to pout. \u00a0By the time they arrived at the house, his brother\u2019s warning had become a challenge.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

\u201cOf course I want to see it, but I want to survive the seeing.\u201d \u00a0Tuck sighed. \u00a0 \u201cI just don\u2019t see how.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cDang that Widow Werther. \u00a0She\u2019s the reason Hoolihan has Old Jack Sutter sitting outside the batwings guarding the place. \u00a0Can\u2019t even dash in for a quick look. \u00a0Old Jack knows every boy for twenty miles around. \u00a0Even if you made it in and caught a glimpse before Hoolihan tossed ya out, word would get to your folks, probably before you did.\u201d A shudder ran down the backs of all three boys.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI want more than a glance anyway, so…\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s voice stilled as his mind continued to formulate and reject ideas.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMaybe we could sneak in after closing?\u201d <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe ain\u2019t gonna see much in the dark, Tuck.\u201d \u00a0Mitch\u2019s voice was harsh\u00a0with frustration.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe could maybe light…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMore likely than not somebody\u2019d see the light and come running. \u00a0Probably the sheriff or deputy. \u00a0We\u2019d never run fast enough to not be recognized.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe had no doubt that Roy Coffee could recognize his retreating form from blocks away. \u00a0He could just hear the man: \u201cNow, Ben, I hate to tell ya…\u201d and shuddered again.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI just thought maybe the whitewash Hoolihan\u2019s using to stop folks peeking in the window would be enough…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo, the light\u2019s dimmer, but you can still see it some in the dark.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYeah, Martin Cooley said something to Hoss about it. \u00a0Every hand on the Ponderosa has been to <\/span>The Red Dog <\/span><\/i>since that painting\u2019s been up.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cOh, well.\u201d \u00a0Tuck shrugged and then slumped against the church\u2019s foundation. \u201cThat\u2019s that then.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe\u2019s fingers snapped. \u00a0\u201cNo, no, it ain\u2019t. \u00a0Sun rises before six these days. \u00a0The saloons don\u2019t open until nine. \u00a0 That gives us at least two hours, maybe more, before anyone would be around. \u00a0Two hours\u00a0to get in, take a long look, and get out with none the wiser.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHoolihan and some of his girls sleep upstairs.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSo, we\u2019ll have to look quietly. \u00a0A body doesn\u2019t have to make noise to see.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe grinned.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cBut getting in?\u201d \u00a0Tuck had straightened with anticipation but hesitated to totally embrace the idea.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019ll bet on Joe getting us in!\u201d \u00a0Mitch had firsthand knowledge of his friend\u2019s lockpicking skills.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cIt\u2019s worth investigating the possibilities. \u00a0Depends on how Hoolihan locks up the back door.\u201d \u00a0The boys nodded and then exchanged looks as they heard their parents calling.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019ll check it out.\u201d \u00a0Being the only one living in town, Tuck knew he would have the most opportunity. \u00a0The boys heard their names called again. \u00a0\u201cWe better go. \u00a0I\u2019ll tell you at school.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cGood man!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe clapped Tuck on the back, and then all three boys took off running.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

\u201cHoolihan padlocks the doors back and front from the inside, so that\u2019s that. \u00a0You can\u2019t pick a lock from the other side of the door.\u201d \u00a0Tuck shrugged. \u00a0Mitch\u2019s fist hit the ground.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cDang!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWait. \u00a0Tuck, is there a window in the back?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYeah, but it\u2019s small and high up.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cUp high ain\u2019t nothing. \u00a0Is it too small for me?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Mitch gave Little Joe\u2019s frame a once-over. \u00a0\u201cProbably not.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cIt\u2019s not just a pane; it opens?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYea, it\u2019s a full window, but it locks.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe gave a dismissive wave of his hand. \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cBut getting all three of us…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe only need to get me through the window. \u00a0I\u2019ll pick the padlock and let you two in. \u00a0Then the door will be open if we have to get out fast.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYeah!\u201d Excitement lit Mitch\u2019s eyes. \u00a0\u201cWhen are we…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSlow down. \u00a0This plan needs to be the best ever. \u00a0Adam says: \u2018it\u2019s all in the details.\u2019 We\u2019re gonna take the time to go over all the details and make this plan watertight.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYea, Mitch, Joe\u2019s right. \u00a0That painting isn\u2019t going anywhere.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cIt is if Widow Werther has her way.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMitch! \u00a0The widow\u2019s been working on that for days and days. It ain\u2019t likely that anything will happen fast. \u00a0\u2018Sides, we ain\u2019t gonna take forever to plan. \u00a0A school night wouldn\u2019t be the best time anyways, so we got until the weekend to go over things.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Mitch huffed. \u00a0\u201cWell, okay if we\u2019re gonna plan let\u2019s get to planning.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The boys spent every lunch and recess discussing and refining their plan.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

The predawn of Saturday morning found three bootless boys standing in the dark behind <\/span>The Red Dog<\/span><\/i>. \u00a0It had been decided that socks were less likely to make reveling noise. \u00a0 Moving boxes or barrels was also seen as too likely to cause notice, so Tuck and Mitch stood ready to act as supports. \u00a0The boys did not even dare to whisper.\u00a0 They knew all the planned moves by heart- had practiced some of them- and worked in silent concert. \u00a0Little Joe stood on his friend\u2019s shoulders, braced by their hands around his ankles, and used his pocketknife to open the window\u2019s lock without any problem. \u00a0Afterall, he had opened window\u2019s that way before. \u00a0He held his breath then, but the window did not stick; it slid open easily. \u00a0He was over the sash and dropping lightly to the floor in seconds. \u00a0A few minutes later, the back door opened slightly. \u00a0Mitch and then Tuck slipped inside. \u00a0The boys exchanged thumbs-ups and headed for the main room. \u00a0Outside the sun had begun to rise. \u00a0The inside of the saloon was still black though, so the boys moved slowly and carefully. \u00a0Finally, they reached their goal. \u00a0That a painting hung on the back wall was just barely discernable. \u00a0The boys stretched out on their stomachs facing their prize and waited for sunlight to revel all.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

When the morning light finally illuminated the painting, the boys, almost as one, rose to their knees, sucked in great breaths of air, and then forgot to breathe.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Their eyes search every centimeter of the painting with a focus none of them had ever achieved before. \u00a0Transfixed by the sight, they failed to hear the light footsteps that descended from the top floor. \u00a0When the white robed figure stopped at the bottom of the stair, she spoke.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, now what do we have here?\u201d \u00a0Feminine laughter rose to the rafters. \u00a0Three startled boys scrabbled to their feet. \u00a0\u201cBoys, boys. \u00a0Naughty, naughty, naughty!\u201d Fannie Mae laughed again.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cUh, uh…\u201d \u00a0The boys were frozen in shock. \u00a0Fannie Mae\u2019s robe was thin cotton and clung to her body.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hearing heavy footsteps above,\u00a0a sly grin spread over the saloon girl\u2019s red lips. \u00a0From the landing above, Ted Hoolihan caught sight of the boys and roared out an obscenity that Tuck had never even heard before. \u00a0His shout finally set the boys in motion.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cRun!\u201d \u00a0They set off to the back door, scrambling and pushing each other in their haste. \u00a0A large crock of molasses fell from the shelf next to the door. The shattered pottery and its sticky contents impeded Ted Hoolihan\u2019s pursuit, and he gave up with a growl. The boys ran through the town, darting behind buildings and down alleys. When they reached Tuck\u2019s house, they stopped in the bushes beneath his window, panting and assessing if anyone in the house was stirring.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHoolihan don\u2019t know any of us.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHe may … we\u2019ll just deny everything. \u00a0Folks can make mistakes. \u00a0Mistaken identity\u2019s real.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYeah, at breakfast time we\u2019ll come out of your bedroom natural like we been there all night. \u00a0Your folks will say we all spent the night right in this house like we were meant to. \u00a0They will, won\u2019t they?\u201d \u00a0Mitch searched Tuck\u2019s face for assurance.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cUm, yeah, yeah they will unless… um, if they already know we sneaked out, Papa will be waiting right there in my room.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe swallowed the lump in his throat. \u00a0\u201cBest get in that room. \u00a0Cross your fingers, fellows.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Tuck\u2019s bedroom was empty, and each boy sighed in relief. When Tuck\u2019s mother called them to breakfast, they came out of the room with smiles on their faces. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

As the last hymn ended, Little Joe felt his father\u2019s hand settle on his shoulder. \u00a0He accepted the fact that he would not be joining his friends until after a proper exit and polite remarks to the preacher. \u00a0He remained at his father\u2019s side while the Cartwrights made a slow family departure. \u00a0Just as his pa turned from speaking to Reverend Hawker, he heard a familiar voice.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cCould I have a word with ya, Ben?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSure, Roy. \u00a0Little Joe, don\u2019t go too far, we…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cUm, we\u2019ll be needing the boy. \u00a0Let\u2019s step inside.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cOf course.\u201d \u00a0Ben and his two older sons both gave Little Joe an inquiring glare. \u00a0Little Joe dropped his chin as his stomach fell to his knees. \u00a0When they entered the church vestibule, Joe saw both Mitch and Tuck along with their parents and Ted Hoolihan, and his stomach settled at his feet.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThat\u2019s him; that\u2019s the third one; that\u2019s the three that broke into my place Saturday early. \u00a0Caused some damage; they did.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe did not!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s shout was righteously indignant as he was refuting the fact that they had caused damage. \u00a0The adults present assumed he was denying the entire episode.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cDon\u2019t you lie, boy! I saw you with my own eyes. \u00a0Fannie Mae saw \u2018em too. \u00a0She\u2019ll tell you.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Roy Coffee straightened to his full height and motioned the three boys to stand together in front of him. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cEach of ya has been taught not to lie, so I\u2019m just going to ask plain. \u00a0Were you in T<\/span>he Red Dog <\/span><\/i>saloon anytime Saturday morning?\u201d \u00a0He watched the three boys shift nervously and glance sideways at the others. \u00a0\u201cThere\u2019s more than one Bible about. \u00a0Should I…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe were.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s voice was barely a whisper.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThe three of you?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d \u00a0All three boys managed to answer. \u00a0All three father\u2019s gave various growls of disapproval. \u00a0Tuck\u2019s mother gasped.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cDo I need to ask why?\u201d \u00a0The sheriff\u2019s voice had grown even more steel-edged.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhy they was planning to rob…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The fathers all bowed up and shot daggers at Ted Hoolihan. \u00a0 Sherriff Coffee, who knew the three boys and their families, growled at Hoolihan.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cQuiet man! \u00a0I\u2019ll do the talking! \u00a0Boys?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe just wanted to see the painting.\u201d \u00a0Tuck spoke and then ventured a look back at his mother.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe just looked. \u00a0That\u2019s all we did.\u201d \u00a0Mitch looked over his shoulder at his parents. \u00a0\u201cThat\u2019s all we did. \u00a0Honest, Ma!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe didn\u2019t do no damage!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s voice again held indignation.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The sheriff looked at Ted Hoolihan. \u00a0\u201cWhat damage can you prove?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

The saloon owner looked at the faces around him before answering. \u00a0\u201cWell, a crock, a huge crock, of molasses was broken and ruined. \u00a0It was expensive molasses.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo doubt.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s interjection was laced with sarcasm; nothing in <\/span>The Red Dog<\/span><\/i> was of expensive quality. \u00a0Hoss snorted agreement. \u00a0Ben sent his older sons a glare.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThe molasses will be paid for.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe could hear the anger in his father\u2019s voice.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnything else?\u201d Sheriff Coffee wanted the whole episode concluded swiftly.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, well, nothing costing money.\u201d \u00a0Hoolihan drew himself up. \u00a0\u201cI want them boys seen to proper. \u00a0I can\u2019t have…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThe boys will be seen to by their fathers. \u00a0No more official time is going to be wasted over a childish prank such as this. \u00a0Come on, Hoolihan. \u00a0You were warned that painting would cause trouble.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMy money!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Ben took out his wallet, pulled out a bill, and thrust it at Hoolihan. \u00a0\u201cThis should cover the molasses and the crock.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Hoolihan snatched the money out of Ben\u2019s hand. \u00a0\u201cKeep your boy out of my place! \u00a0All your boys! \u00a0None of you Cartwrights are welcome in any place I own.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam leaned closed to Hoss and spoke only for his brother\u2019s ears. \u00a0\u201cAs if we would dirty our boots.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span>\u201cAdam, you and Hoss take Joseph to our buggy and keep him there.\u201d Ben turned his back to his sons and looked at the other fathers. \u00a0It was silently agreed that the fathers would be discussing their mutual problem. \u00a0Little Joe followed his brothers from the church. \u00a0Mitch and Tuck were led out by their mothers.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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

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

Little Joe heard his door open, and footsteps cross to his bed. \u00a0He had learned to distinguish the footsteps of each man in the Cartwright home and knew his brother Adam had come to speak to him. \u00a0 He kept his face turned to the wall and tensed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou mad?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo. \u00a0Do you think I should be?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou told me not to.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI warned you not to.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe opened his eyes. \u00a0\u201cBesides, Pa was angry enough for three men. \u00a0There\u2019s no reason for me to waste the energy.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI ain\u2019t never been in such trouble.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe moaned and buried his head in his pillow.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam rolled his eyes. \u201cI assume Pa laid down the law before he busted your tail?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYea.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd you know such sneaky and deceitful behavior is wrong, totally unacceptable?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYeah.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd that Pa has already forgiven you even if you still have a list of chores to complete to pay for that molasses?\u201d \u00a0Adam managed to keep amusement out of his voice.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cPa paid too much for that molasses!\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam settled beside his brother on the bed. \u00a0\u201cHe was in no position to decker. \u00a0Technically, what you boys did was breaking and entering, a crime.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSo, Pa mentioned. \u00a0We didn\u2019t think about it like that.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou should have.\u201d \u00a0Adam sighed and rolled his eyes again. \u00a0\u201cYou put some thought into your plan.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNot enough.\u201d \u00a0Joe sighed. \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cRemember that the next time. \u00a0No amount of planning can make doing something wrong okay.\u201d \u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWon\u2019t be a next time.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cGood, then my sermon can end.\u201d \u00a0Adam gave Little Joe\u2019s leg a back-handed slap. \u00a0\u201cCan I count on you staying out of trouble for a few weeks?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYears! Years and years.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe raised up on his elbows. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re being awfully… well, you\u2019re being…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019m being your brother.\u201d \u00a0Adam looked into Joe\u2019s eyes. \u00a0\u201cNot elder brother, just your brother.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cLike you would with Hoss?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes, more like I would with Hoss. \u00a0I… well, I could have, should have…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam sighed. \u00a0\u201cI have a couple of books in my room with expensive illustrations. \u00a0One has illustrations of art from the Greek and Roman civilizations.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cSome of that classical art?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes.\u201d \u00a0Adam shifted and cleared his throat. \u00a0\u201cThat painting in Hoolihan\u2019s saloon…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou’ve seen it?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes, and before you ask, so has Hoss. \u00a0Curiosity can cause an irritating itch. \u00a0Anyway, that painting is coarse and vulgar. \u00a0The artist had little skill and no talent. \u00a0It may not be an abomination, but it is an afront to the women of the town, to any woman. \u00a0It debases them and leering at it debases the man.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cOh.\u201d \u00a0The syllable was a soft exclamation. \u00a0Joe drew in a breath. \u00a0\u201cThose classical ones, there not like that?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo, they are not, as you shall see.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe rose to his knees.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWe will look at them together. \u00a0I should have realized… well, it would have been better if I had showed them to you in the first place.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe heard the self-recrimination in his brother\u2019s voice. \u00a0\u201cI still might\u2019ve… curiosity gave us all a mighty fierce itch, Adam.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cStill…\u201d \u00a0Adam tousled Little Joe\u2019s hair and then grew stern. \u00a0\u201cMy books shall remain in my room, you…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWould never mess with your books. \u00a0I know you\u2019d kill me.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s conviction reassured his brother.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNot actually, out of difference to Pa and Hoss, but I would make you wish I had.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cI know.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe drew in a deep breath. \u00a0\u201cMitch and Tuck don\u2019t have any big brothers, well, to teach them the right of it.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cThey have fathers.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWould you want Pa…\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Adam shuddered. \u00a0\u201cOkay, okay. \u00a0Pa did teach you to share. \u00a0Next time they are allowed here, I shall conduct… shall we say an art appreciation class.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cDo I have to wait?\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cNo.\u201d Adam rose. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ve a feeling you could benefit from some private tutoring.\u201d \u00a0He smiled. \u00a0\u201cPa wants you at the supper table.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe moaned. \u00a0\u201cHoss already has a cushion on your chair.”<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Little Joe smiled up at his brother and wondered when Adam would begin his instruction.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The End<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Note:<\/span> \u00a0<\/span>This story was written in response to the Chaps and Spurs Challenge 2025 Quarter 2.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>The required words that guided the story were: \u00a0Naked, Abomination, Revenue, Civilization, Molasses <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: Little Joe and his friends just wanted to see the new painting in The Red Dog saloon before the ladies of the town could have it destroyed, and all they needed was a watertight plan.
\nRating: T\/PG 13 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Word count: 4,414\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":143,"featured_media":6846,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[39,1007,30,40],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-56804","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-chaps-spurs","category-joe-cartwright","category-prequels","category-challenges","wpcat-39-id","wpcat-1007-id","wpcat-30-id","wpcat-40-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/ponderosa-lj.jpg?fit=640%2C475&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56804","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/143"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=56804"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56804\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/6846"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=56804"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=56804"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=56804"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}