Summary:\u00a0 The women of the town try to help the Cartwright family after Marie\u2019s death, causing Ben nothing but headaches.
\nRating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 13,690 words<\/p>\n
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For The Best <\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n Adam lifted his little brother down from the buckboard and placed him on his feet. \u201cMorning ma\u2019am,\u201d he said tipping his hat to a woman who was passing.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The woman stopped and smiled at him. \u201cAdam Cartwright,\u201d she said. \u201cHow are you dear?\u00a0 And how is your father?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam nodded. \u201cFine thanks,\u201d he replied. \u201cMuch better now.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd your poor family?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cFine, thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGood,\u201d she said kindly and patted Little Joe on the head. \u201cPoor little thing,\u201d she sighed before walking away. Joe gave her a puzzled look and then shrugged as he followed Adam into the store.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMorning,\u201d said Adam again, tipping his hat this time to a group of women who were standing by the counter inspecting some bolts of cloth.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGood morning Adam,\u201d said Sarah Parkins. \u201cNice to see you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAdam,\u201d said Beatrice Henderson. \u201cHow is your father keeping?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMuch better, thank you ma\u2019am,\u201d replied Adam politely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa ain\u2019t sick,\u201d Little Joe informed the woman.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPoor little thing,\u201d said Beatrice, patting him on the head. \u201cSuch a shame!\u201d Joe gave her a puzzled look, then looked at Adam questioningly and opened his mouth to speak. Adam shook his head at him and he turned to stare at the candy on the counter instead.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGive your father our regards please Adam,\u201d said Sarah as the women made to leave the shop. She pinched Joe\u2019s cheek as she passed him and gave him a kindly smile. \u201cPoor little thing,\u201d she said before sighing again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe scowled after her, for if there was one thing he hated above all others it was having his cheek pinched by well-meaning ladies. \u201cI\u2019ve just come to settle our account for Pa,\u201d Adam said to the man behind the counter. \u201cYou want to choose some candy while I\u2019m paying?\u201d he said to his brother. Joe simply looked at him with a worried expression. \u201cWell, do you want some candy or not?\u201d asked Adam. \u201cHurry up.\u201d Joe nodded and said nothing. \u201cWell \u2026\u201d said Adam, beginning to get impatient with the child. \u201cChoose what you want.\u201d Joe simply looked at his brother and shook his head.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI better not,\u201d he said, looking at the candy longingly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhy not?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCause we can\u2019t afford to pay no money fer it,\u201d Joe explained sadly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam bent down so that his face was level with that of his little brother\u2019s. \u201cWhat are you talking about?\u201d he asked. \u201cI\u2019ve got money from Pa to buy candy for you. He said you could choose some \u2026 and some for Hoss as well \u2026. Remember?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe looked confused for a moment. \u201cYes,\u201d he said slowly. \u201cBut I better not \u2026. Pa don\u2019t have much money for stuff like candy.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n This time it was Adam\u2019s turn to look confused. \u201cWhat on earth would make you think that?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThem ladies,\u201d replied Joe sadly. \u201cThey all said we was poor and that I was a poor little thing.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam tried not to laugh at the child\u2019s interpretation of the women\u2019s kindly words. \u201cThey weren\u2019t talking about that kind of poor, Joe,\u201d he explained. \u201cWe\u2019ve got plenty of money for candy. Now choose some if you want to.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes lit up again and he spent the next ten minutes meticulously going through all the enticing jars of candy on the counter while Adam paid their account. By the time they\u2019d finished, he had two cones of paper wrapped up \u2026 one in each hand \u2026 and a giant smile on his face. \u201cCan I eat one now Adam?\u201d he asked as his brother lifted him up onto the buckboard outside again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSure,\u201d replied Adam with a twinkle in his eye. \u201cAs long as you give me one.\u201d Joe dutifully handed his brother a lemon drop and then popped a large peppermint into his own mouth. He sucked on it happily as they drove down the Main Street and it wasn\u2019t until they were well on their way down the trail towards The Ponderosa that he opened his mouth again to speak.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSo what did they mean?\u201d Joe suddenly asked through his peppermint.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHmm?\u201d replied Adam, his mind on other things.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat did them ladies mean when they called our family and me poor?\u201d asked Joe. \u201cYou said it was another kind of poor. What kind?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam sighed. \u201cThey meant that they felt sorry for our family,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBecause \u2026\u201d Adam hesitated before continuing. \u201cBecause your Mama died,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe\u2019s eyes misted over. \u201cOh,\u201d he said and was silent.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam glanced down at his little brother, his heart going out to him. \u201cHow about another piece of candy?\u201d he said. \u201cPa wouldn\u2019t mind if you had two.\u201d Joe shook his head and was silent. After a few moments he scrunched over towards Adam on the seat of the buckboard and cuddled into him. Adam put one arm around his sad little brother and hugged him as they drove slowly towards home.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^ <\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n The two women pulled the buggy to a halt and looked around. \u201cSuch a beautiful home,\u201d one said to the other. \u201cSuch a shame for the family, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt is indeed,\u201d said the second woman, getting down carefully from the buggy and reaching up for the basket that had been on the seat beside her. \u201cPoor Marie.\u201d She sighed as she waited for the first woman to get down as well. Suddenly there was a whooping noise from around the other side of the barn and a small boy appeared, running at a fast rate. He was covered in dirt from head to foot and his shirt was hanging out of his trousers. His suspenders were all tangled with each other and his curly hair was in disarray. Both women stared at him as he came to a halt beside them and smiled up at them.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHi,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHello Joseph,\u201d said the first woman. \u201cUm \u2026. Is your Pa at home dear?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The little boy shrugged. \u201cI dunno,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The first woman looked at the second woman. \u201cThen is your big brother Adam at home?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The child shook his head. \u201cNope,\u201d he said. \u201cHe\u2019s gone ta work. Hoss is at school so he ain\u2019t here neither.\u201d He put his head on one side and studied the two women for a moment. \u201cWhatcha got in the basket?\u201d he asked curiously.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Something for your Pa dear,\u201d said the first woman. She put out her hand to pat him on the head, but then thought better of it as she looked at the many sticks and twigs entwined in between his curls. \u201cSurely you\u2019re not here by yourself?\u201d she asked looking around.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNope,\u201d said Joe. \u201cHop Sing is in the house.\u201d He waved his arm in the general direction of the kitchen. \u201cI gotta go now. I\u2019m looking fer my frog.\u201d He took off again around the back of the house, just as Hop Sing flung open the kitchen door.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou come back!\u201d he shouted at the disappearing child, but to no avail \u2026 as Joe ignored him and kept on running. Hop Sing shrugged and was about to close the door, when he spied the two women. He immediately smiled at them and motioned for them to come inside. \u201cMissy Parkins, Missy Henderson. Mr Cartwright not here. Come inside and have coffee?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah looked at Beatrice before stepping forward. \u201cNo thank you Hop Sing,\u201d she said, handing him the basket. \u201cWe just wanted to leave this. We thought it might help \u2026 you know \u2026 with all the trouble and all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hop Sing took the basket and peeped inside to see two pots of stew and a cake. \u201cVery nice,\u201d he said. \u201cMr Cartwright say thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah nodded. \u201cYou\u2019re welcome,\u201d she said. \u201cAnything to help. All the women in town feel so sorry for the Cartwrights\u2019 recent loss. Poor Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n At that moment, Little Joe appeared again with a large frog in his hand. \u201cI got him,\u201d he announced happily. \u201cHe was hiding out the back.\u201d He thrust the frog under the women\u2019s noses. \u201cYou wanna see him?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah and Beatrice both took a step back simultaneously. \u201cNo, thank you dear,\u201d one of them muttered. \u201cNot right now.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hop Sing reached out and collared the child, giving him a slight shake. \u201cWhere you been?\u201d he said sternly. \u201cYou all messy!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDown at the creek getting my frog,\u201d replied Little Joe. He held it out for Hop Sing\u2019s inspection, but the man simply shoved him towards the kitchen.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou go inside and I clean you up,\u201d he instructed and Joe smiled at both the women before obeying.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAre you left in charge of that child every day?\u201d asked Beatrice.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hop Sing shook his head. \u201cMr Cartwright and Mr Adam need work,\u201d he said. \u201cNot every day \u2026 but some days. Him naughty boy sometimes,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSurely that\u2019s very difficult for you with all you have to do now that Marie is gone,\u201d sniffed Beatrice, obviously disapproving of the arrangement.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hop Sing shrugged again. \u201cNot mind,\u201d he said. \u201cHe naughty boy, but he not mean it.\u201d He looked at the women again. You not come in for coffee?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n They both shook their heads. \u201cNo, thank you,\u201d Sarah said. \u201cWe need to get back to town now. Please tell Ben to let us know if there is anything we can do.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI do that,\u201d said Hop Sing as the two women got back into the buggy. He waved to them both and then turned to grab Little Joe again who was attempting to sneak out from the kitchen with his frog. As they round the bend beside the barn, Sarah looked back and saw Hop Sing frantically pointing his finger at Little Joe as he swatted his backside.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDisgraceful,\u201d she sniffed as they set off down the trail. \u201cDid you see the state of that child? Poor Marie would have a fit if she could see him running wild in that way.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cLeaving him in the charge of that Chinese cook all day,\u201d mused Beatrice. \u201cStill, I suppose poor Ben doesn\u2019t have a choice with all the work he has to do. Such a sad situation.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe looked up at his father to see if he was watching him before sliding across the pew towards the aisle. Ben continued to stare straight ahead of him as if lost in thought, his mind a million miles away as he prayed for the soul of his dead wife. Joe reached down and picked up a spider that was crawling across the aisle near the Cartwright pew and tucked in into his pocket for later. He turned around on his seat to stare at the people behind him, grinning at them all before getting up and kneeling on the seat to get a better look.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam leant forward and reached around his father, pulling the child to a sitting position again, much to Joe\u2019s disgust. Adam pointed a finger at the minister and Joe pouted as he sat up and folded his arms across his chest to give the impression that he was listening. As Adam sat back again he glanced at his father in between them. The man acted as if he hadn\u2019t even noticed what had happened \u2026 and Adam figured that he probably hadn\u2019t. There were times when he could scream at him to come out of the lethargy he seemed to retreat into at time such as this and although these times were becoming less frequent, they were still enough for Adam to worry what was going to happen when he left for college in a few months and his father had sole responsibility for Hoss and Joe again. Since his stepmother had died, Adam had taken on a major role in helping his father \u2026 both on the ranch and with his two brothers \u2026 but he couldn\u2019t put his life on hold forever. All he could do was pray that in time his father would rouse himself fully and come back to them as he had been before Marie\u2019s death.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As the congregation stood up Little Joe got down on his knees to look for something on the floor and as his father once more ignored him, Adam reached down and pulled the little boy to his feet and past his father towards himself. \u201cBut I was just \u2026\u201d Little Joe began to protest. Adam put his hand over his brother\u2019s mouth and shook his head as they began to sing the last hymn and Joe was silent.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As soon as the strains of the last hymn ended, both Little Joe and Hoss started struggling to get past Adam and make it outside quickly. Adam gave his father a frustrated look as the man sat down and hung his head, obviously praying again. Adam collared Little Joe and nodded to Hoss to get out of the seat before them, then followed with Joe in tow. Once again, he knew that it would be up to him to keep an eye on his brothers until their father was ready to come out of his reverie again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben sat looking at the crucifix as the church gradually emptied of people. He felt so alone at times like this. It was true that he had his boys and he loved them dearly, but life at times still seemed so empty without his beloved Marie. He had sensed everyone watching himself and the boys during the service and he knew that there was a great deal of pity around the town for them all, but he wished that they would all just let his family get on with their lives. They all meant well \u2026 like the two women who\u2019d come the other day with food for them \u2026 but there was really nothing that anyone could do to make their family whole again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n With a deep sigh, Ben stood up and walked out of the church, scanning the small churchyard for his boys. Hoss was talking to a group of his friends over by the buggy and Adam was talking to a young lady while trying to keep Little Joe by his side. Ben smiled at his youngest son and Joe broke free from his brother and ran over to him, holding his arms up to his father. It was the first time Ben taken notice of him all morning and Joe had learned by now that he had to make the most of it when his father was like this.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben swooped up the boy and gave him a quick hug. \u201cHave you been good for your brother?\u201d he asked teasingly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe nodded. \u201cYep,\u201d he said, really believing that he had. To the small boy, his many transgressions were usually forgotten as soon as they were over and he literally lived life for the moment. \u201cWe going home now Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSoon,\u201d replied his father. He walked over to the small group of women who were standing near the gate and tipped his hat to them. \u201cLadies,\u201d he said. \u201cI wanted to thank you for the food you brought out the other day.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah Parkins gave him a kind smile. \u201cDon\u2019t mention it Ben,\u201d she said. \u201cWe\u2019re all just happy to do anything to help that we can.\u201d She pinched Little Joe\u2019s cheek and the boy scowled at her and brushed her hand away angrily.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cStop that!\u201d said Ben in a sharper tone than he\u2019d meant to use. Joe took no notice of his father and continued to scowl at the woman who smiled back at him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo harm done,\u201d she said. \u201cBen, I \u2026 that is we \u2026. would like a word with you about something though.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOf course,\u201d replied Ben. Sarah gave Little Joe a meaningful look and Ben put the boy down on his feet and gave him a slight push. \u201cGo over with Adam,\u201d he said, but Joe stood his ground.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI wanna stay with you Pa,\u201d he said stubbornly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI said to go,\u201d said Ben tersely. He hadn\u2019t intended to be cross with the child, but nowadays he just didn\u2019t seem to have the patience that he\u2019d had before. Joe clung to his father\u2019s legs and Ben brushed him off roughly. \u201cDo as I say!\u201d he snapped and immediately felt contrite as Joe\u2019s bottom lip dropped and he ran over towards Adam.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t be so rough on the child,\u201d admonished Sarah. \u201cHe didn\u2019t mean anything by it Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know,\u201d said Ben, thinking that he\u2019d make it up to the boy on the way home. \u201cNow, what is it you wanted to say?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah looked at Beatrice and the other women. \u201cWhen Beatrice and I were at The Ponderosa the other day we noticed how \u2026 well \u2026 busy Hop Sing seemed to be.\u201d Ben waited. \u201cNone of us would ever mind watching Little Joe for you Ben,\u201d she said. \u201cWhat with work and all it must be difficult for you now that Marie\u2019s gone.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben\u2019s heart lurched as it always did whenever someone actually mentioned his wife\u2019s death. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said. \u201cBut we\u2019re managing. Hop Sing doesn\u2019t mind watching Joe and between Adam and myself we get by.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut Adam will be leaving for college in a few weeks,\u201d insisted the woman. \u201cAnd frankly Ben, the child looked \u2026. well \u2026 rather worse for wear when we saw him.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben bristled at her words. \u201cI\u2019m sure I\u2019ll manage,\u201d he said stiffly. \u201cThank you anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah put a hand on his arm. \u201cWhat about Hoss?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave her a strange look. \u201cWhat about him?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWell, Abigail Jones says that he\u2019s very distracted at school. Perhaps all of this is telling on him as well?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben raised an eyebrow. \u201cI\u2019m sure it is,\u201d he said politely. \u201cBut as I said, I will manage my own sons thank you. And I\u2019d appreciate you not discussing my sons with Miss Jones.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBen \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben tipped his hat at the women. \u201cGood day ladies,\u201d he said stiffly and walked towards the buggy, pulling Joe away from Adam as he passed him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOw!\u201d said Little Joe indignantly as his father pulled him after himself. \u201cI done nothing Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben stopped and looked down at the little boy before picking him up. \u201cI\u2019m sorry son,\u201d he said. \u201cPa is just feeling a bit angry that\u2019s all.\u201d He looked over at Hoss. \u201cCome on Hoss!\u201d he shouted. \u201cTime to go home!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAre ya angry with me?\u201d asked Joe tentatively.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave the little boy a hug. \u201cOf course not,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I was rough with you Little Joe.\u201d Joe grinned at his father and Ben smiled back at him, secure in the knowledge that this youngest son of his was never one to hang onto his moods for long. \u201cLet\u2019s get home,\u201d he said, placing the child in the buggy as Hoss came bounding up. \u201cWe might go fishing this afternoon eh?\u201d Both boys smiled at him and nodded their heads as Adam came to join them.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben lit his pipe and took a deep breath, relishing the smell of the tobacco as it lit. He took a couple of deep breaths and closed his eyes momentarily, opening them up to stare into the flickering flames in the fire before him. He stretched his long legs, pleased to be able to finally rest. It had been a long week and hadn\u2019t been helped by Hop Sing\u2019s bad temper. It seemed that nearly every day some woman from town had arrived with an offering of food for them and the cook had become increasingly sour because of it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThey think Hop Sing not feed family well enough!\u201d he said indignantly to Ben after one particular woman had left that very afternoon.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben had sighed. \u201cHop Sing, you know it\u2019s not that,\u201d he said. \u201cThey\u2019re just trying to be good neighbours, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHmph!\u201d said the man. \u201cHop Sing can cook plenty for family. Not need extra.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know I know,\u201d Ben said soothingly. \u201cJust humour them for now Hop Sing. For my sake \u2026. Please?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The cook had stomped off into the house, obviously not placated and Ben had had to continually remind the boys not to comment too favourably on the food they\u2019d been given during each meal. Hop Sing was a wonderful housekeeper and a superb cook, but he did tend to be rather possessive and it sometimes made life difficult. Ben wished that the women would stop trying to be so helpful, but he couldn\u2019t think of way to tell them so without offending them. They were simply doing what neighbours often did at such times and helping in the only way they knew how.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He did wish that people would stop giving him such pitying looks every time they saw him though. He really needed to start getting on with life, and while he recognised their sympathy for the kindness that it was \u2026 it didn\u2019t really help him. He knew that every time Marie\u2019s death was mentioned it was hard on the boys too and while he wanted them to talk about it and grieve for her, he didn\u2019t want it to control their whole lives. He only hoped that in time people would focus on something else.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He wondered if he would ever be able to. There were times when he still found himself wanting noting more than to retreat into himself and that feeling resulted in him being cross with the boys for placing demands upon him. Try as he would not to allow himself to do so, he still lost his temper with them at times when he shouldn\u2019t. He knew that they needed him so much at the moment and he was trying desperately to be there for them, but he still found it so very hard. He felt that he wasn\u2019t giving them the attention they deserved and he hated himself for it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Only the other day he\u2019d seen Abigail Jones in town and she\u2019d confirmed what the women had already told him. Hoss was finding school more difficult than usual lately and had withdrawn into himself more than he usually did. He didn\u2019t seem to be coping with things academically or socially and that worried Ben a great deal. He had resolved to talk to the boy, but so far hadn\u2019t been able to stir himself emotionally to do so.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He\u2019d found Little Joe running wild on a number of occasions in the past week and had made a greater effort to supervise the child as well. He supposed that it was only going to get worse when Adam left at the end of the month, for his eldest son had been a pillar of strength in looking after the emotional and physical needs of both his brothers, but Ben knew that he couldn\u2019t and shouldn\u2019t rely on him any longer. Adam had his own needs and his own life to live, just as his brothers did.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben practically had to force his eldest son to go into town tonight and have some fun. There was a time when Adam would have fought to get into town at the end of a long week of work, but now he simply saw it as his duty to look after his younger brothers and be around in case they needed him. Ben was having trouble convincing him that he was now once again capable of looking after the boys, but he was certainly working on it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He glanced over to the coffee table where Hoss was attempting to teach Joe how to play checkers and smiled as he saw the little boy try to cheat yet again. \u201cPut that back,\u201d said Hoss sternly. \u201cYa can\u2019t put that piece there.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhy not?\u201d asked Joe indignantly. \u201cThat\u2019s where I want it ta go!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut it don\u2019t go there,\u201d protested Hoss. \u201cPa! Tell Joe it can\u2019t go there!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPlay the game properly Joseph,\u201d said his father wearily. He shut his eyes again and began to think of how wonderful it used to be when Marie had been alive and they had both sat here in front of the fireplace when \u2026. He jumped slightly as the sound of a loud knock came on the front door and then got to his feet to walk over and open it. \u201cWell this is nice,\u201d he said to the couple standing on the front porch. \u201cPlease come in Sarah and Fred.\u201d He motioned inside as Fred and Sarah Parkins came into the house.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHello boys,\u201d said Sarah, smiling at Hoss and Little Joe kindly. \u201cPoor little things,\u201d she breathed to her husband.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe scowled at her as she bent down to pinch his cheek and Hoss dutifully replied, \u201cEvening ma\u2019am, evening sir,\u201d before going turning back to his game.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll get some coffee from the kitchen,\u201d said Ben. \u201cPlease sit down.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWell,\u201d said Fred jovially. \u201cPlaying checkers I see.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes sir,\u201d replied Hoss as he reached over and took a piece from Joe\u2019s hand. \u201cI done told ya before Joe, ya can\u2019t jest take em like that!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCan so!\u201d replied Joe heatedly. \u201cI wanna put it on another square!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWell ya can\u2019t,\u201d said Hoss crossly, replacing the piece on the board. Joe scowled at him and picked it up again. \u201cYa put that back or I\u2019ll pound ya one Joe,\u201d threatened Hoss. Joe simply continued to scowl at his brother and put the checker piece down on another square. Hoss leant across the board and pulled on his little brother\u2019s collar as Ben re-entered the room with a tray in his hands.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss! Leave your brother alone!\u201d he said sternly, giving an apologetic look to Sarah and Fred.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYeah!\u201d shouted Joe indignantly. \u201cLeave me alone Hoss!\u201d He wriggled to free himself from his brother\u2019s grip, but Hoss kept hold of him firmly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBehave yourselves!\u201d Ben said in a raised voice. His two sons took no notice of him, but continued to struggle with each other, knocking the checkerboard onto the floor and scattering the pieces all around.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNow look what ya\u2019ve done!\u201d shouted Hoss crossly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI neva done it!\u201d shouted Joe, just as crossly. \u201cYou done it!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben put down the tray before grabbing a boy in each hand. \u201cThat will do!\u201d he shouted. \u201cUpstairs the both of you! Get!\u201d He turned to Sarah and Fred apologetically as Hoss slunk up the stairs. Little Joe stood his ground for a moment longer, eyeing his father off before deciding the wisest course of action would be to follow Hoss upstairs. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d said Ben as he sat down and began to pour out the coffee. \u201cThey\u2019ve both become quite a handful lately. I just don\u2019t seem to be able to keep the control I once did.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s understandable,\u201d replied Fred, giving his wife a meaningful look. \u201cYou\u2019ve all been through a lot lately.\u201d He cleared his throat. \u201cActually Ben, that\u2019s why we\u2019ve come to see you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes,\u201d said Sarah, sitting forward on her seat. \u201cAnd we\u2019d rather have talked about without the boys around anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben raised an eyebrow as he handed them their coffee. \u201cOh?\u201d he said. \u201cTalk about what?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou,\u201d said Sarah. \u201cWell actually, you and the boys. Things are hard for all of you at the moment Ben, everyone can see that. Fred and I would like to help.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThank you,\u201d replied Ben as he sipped his coffee. \u201cBut we\u2019re managing.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sarah hesitated. \u201cBen, I don\u2019t think you are,\u201d she said. \u201cBeatrice and I were out here the other day and \u2026 well, frankly we didn\u2019t like what we saw.\u201d Ben stared at her in surprise. \u201cNow please don\u2019t be offended Ben,\u201d she continued. \u201cBut Little Joe was running wild.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHop Sing was looking after him,\u201d said Ben stiffly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOf course,\u201d she said. \u201cBut surely he has enough to do without watching a little boy all the time? Marie would \u2026.\u201d She hesitated as she saw a look of despair flit across Ben\u2019s face at the mention of his late wife\u2019s name. \u201cMarie would want better for him.\u201d She finished and then held up her hand as Ben opened his mouth to speak. \u201cNow I know your feelings on the matter,\u201d she went on. \u201cAfter we\u2019d spoken at church the other day I went home and talked to Fred about it. We\u2019re both here to offer once more to take the boys for you. Just through the week,\u201d she added quickly as Ben began to frown. \u201cMonday to Friday each week while Hoss is at school. Please say that you\u2019ll think about it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPlease think about it Ben,\u201d interrupted Fred. \u201cWe just want to help and frankly \u2026\u201d he put his hand on Ben\u2019s arm. \u201cFrankly Ben, everyone is worried about you. We all think that you need support.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSo everyone is talking behind my back about me?\u201d said Ben stiffly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s not like that at all,\u201d said Sarah. \u201cWe just care about you and the boys, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben put his head down and placed his hands over his face. \u201cI know,\u201d he said in a low voice.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo one is trying to take the boys from you Ben,\u201d said Sarah kindly. \u201cOnly \u2026\u201d she looked across at Fred who nodded his head slightly. \u201cOnly we all think that you need some time to yourself, without the boys to look after. You need to get your life back together.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMy boys are<\/em> my life,\u201d replied Ben, looking up. \u201cI appreciate you offering in this way \u2026 I really do \u2026 but it\u2019s not possible. I simply need my boys with me.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Up on the top step where they were both sitting unseen but listening to the conversation, Hoss looked at Joe and motioned for him to follow as he headed back to his bedroom. \u201cDang old lady!\u201d said Little Joe angrily as soon as the door was safely closed. \u201cShe ain\u2019t taking me nowhere!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou heard Pa,\u201d said Hoss. \u201cHe won\u2019t let em take us nowhere Joe. Ya don\u2019t haveta worry.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll kick her!\u201d declared Joe angrily, demonstrating with his small foot how he\u2019d do just that. \u201cShe done pinched my cheek too! I hate that!\u201d He folded his small arms over his chest and glared at his brother, reminding Hoss of a miniature version of their older brother Adam when he had his mind set on something. Even though they didn\u2019t look at all alike, his older and younger brothers often had similar expressions that made him realise just how alike they were in many ways. \u201cI\u2019ll kick her hard!\u201d Joe said again, kicking out with his foot and accidentally connecting it with Hoss\u2019 shin.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWatch what ya\u2019re doing!\u201d said Hoss angrily, giving his younger brother a shove that sent him backwards a step or two.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe regained his balance and glared at his brother. \u201cDon\u2019t ya push me!\u201d he shouted, pummelling his small fists on Hoss\u2019 broad stomach. Within seconds the two brothers were rolling on the floor, fists flying.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Suddenly, Joe grunted in pain and rolled onto his back on the floor. \u201cOw!\u201d he yelled.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss sat up, immediately contrite. \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter Joe?\u201d he asked anxiously. \u201cDid I done hurt ya?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe held onto his elbow, his face contorted in pain. \u201cMy elbow!\u201d he said in a strangled tone. \u201cOw!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss glanced at the open doorway and then got up and closed the door before sitting down on the floor next to his brother. \u201cShh!\u201d he said. \u201cPa\u2019ll hear and then we\u2019ll be in trouble.\u201d He sat his little brother up gently. \u201cIs it better now?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe nodded, trying not to cry. \u201cSome,\u201d he said. He tested moving his arm. \u201cIt don\u2019t hurt iffen I don\u2019t move it.\u201d He gave Hoss a reassuring look. \u201cIt\u2019ll be OK Hoss. Stop fussin.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat is going on up here?!?\u201d Ben\u2019s voice boomed across the room as he flung the door open and glared at his two sons. \u201cI can hear that ruckus downstairs! You \u2026\u201d He pointed to Little Joe. \u201cGet into your own room and get ready for bed. And you \u2026\u201d he pointed to Hoss. \u201cGet your homework done!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa,\u201d mumbled both boys and waited until they heard Ben\u2019s footsteps going back down the stairs before looked at each other and giggled.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cShow me that elbow Joe,\u201d said Hoss as he reached over and pulled his little brother to his feet. \u201cMebbe ya should get Pa ta look at it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI done told ya its fine,\u201d said Joe, trying to sound casual. \u201cI\u2019d better get ta bed afore Pa tans my butt. Night Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNight Joe,\u201d replied Hoss before turning to his dreaded homework with a sigh.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss turned to see his younger brother standing in the doorway in his trousers, his suspenders down around his legs and his bare torso shivering in the early morning chill. \u201cWhat are ya doing?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cYou wanna get sick? Finish getting dressed Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe made a face and took a step into the room and held out his shirt and jacket. \u201cI can\u2019t get my arm into em,\u201d he explained. \u201cCan you do it for me Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI think we\u2019d better tell Pa what happened last night,\u201d said Hoss as he slid his brother\u2019s shirt on and then buttoned up his jacket for him. \u201cYour arm could be real hurt Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNah!\u201d said Joe bravely. \u201cI done told ya last night Hoss. It don\u2019t hurt none less I move it, so I jest won\u2019t move it much,\u201d he concluded with six year-old logic. \u201cIt\u2019ll get better by and by. Sides, iffen we tell Pa then we\u2019ll get inta trouble. You said so yaself last night.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss nodded. \u201cYeah,\u201d he said. \u201cHe\u2019ll probably tan us both. Best we keep quiet then iffen ya say so Joe.\u201d Even at his age he was beginning to be led by his more forceful younger brother \u2026 many times directly into trouble \u2026. But Joe\u2019s attitude seemed logical to him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBoys!\u201d Their father\u2019s loud voice could be heard from downstairs. \u201cGet down here for breakfast immediately!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss looked and Joe and Joe looked at Hoss before they both scampered down the hallway, Joe being careful to keep his arm still. \u201cMorning Pa,\u201d they said in unison as they seated themselves at the breakfast table.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAbout time you two got down here,\u201d interjected Adam. \u201cHop Sing is in a bad enough mood without you two being late and adding to it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhy\u2019s he in a bad mood?\u201d asked Hoss, eyeing off the vast array of food on the table before grabbing a bread roll.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam indicated the food. \u201cAll of this,\u201d he replied. \u201cIt\u2019s all come from women in the town and he thinks they have the impression that he\u2019s not feeding us properly.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben cleared his throat and gave them both a meaningful look as a grumpy Hop Sing entered the room carrying a basket of fruit. He plonked it on the table. \u201cAll bruised,\u201d he commented. \u201cNot good like Ponderosa fruit.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo offence to those women in town,\u201d said Adam diplomatically. \u201cBut your bread rolls are much better than these ones Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hop Sing gave him a smile. \u201cIs true,\u201d he admitted.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI like em,\u201d said Hoss less tactfully with his mouthful.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMe too,\u201d added Little Joe even less so, wincing as he reached for one.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hop Sing glared at both of them before flouncing out of the room again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBoys, it might be a good idea not to say how much you enjoy the women\u2019s food when Hop Sing is around,\u201d said Ben.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhy?\u201d asked Hoss through his mouthful. \u201cIt\u2019s great Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGreat Pa,\u201d echoed Little Joe, stuffing part of a roll into his mouth.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes I know, but Hop Sing prefers us to like his own cooking,\u201d said Ben. \u201cJust tell him how good his is.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss gave his father a puzzled look as he reached for another roll. \u201cYou want us ta lie Pa?\u201d he asked. \u201cYou\u2019re always telling us not to.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben hesitated as Adam gave him an amused look. \u201cWell no,\u201d he said after a moment. \u201cJust mention how good Hop Sing\u2019s cooking is and don\u2019t talk about how good the rest of it is.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOK,\u201d said Hoss happily. \u201cBut these are sure right tasty rolls.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cRight tasty,\u201d echoed Little Joe, grinning happily at his father as he pushed the last piece of his roll into his mouth with his good hand. Ben gave them both a wry smile.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cJoseph, hurry up,\u201d said Ben, trying to keep the irritation out of his voice as he watched his son get slowly down from the buckboard. \u201cI\u2019ve got an appointment at the bank.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes Pa,\u201d replied Little Joe as he dropped his feet to the ground. He gave his elbow a rub as a shot of pain ran through it at the jolt, but his father didn\u2019t even notice. \u201cWe going to the mercantile too?\u201d he asked as he tried to keep pace with his father\u2019s long stride.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cLater,\u201d said Ben absently. He tipped his hat to a group of women who were standing on the corner. \u201cLadies,\u201d he said, nodding to them.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBen!\u201d cried a voice behind him and Ben turned to see Roy Coffee standing waving at him. \u201cHow are things Ben? Haven\u2019t seen you in town in quite a while.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben forced a smile on his face as he so often found himself having to do when speaking to people lately. Roy Coffee was one of his best friends and had supported him though all his recent troubles, but he found it difficult to talk even to him. \u201cFine thanks,\u201d he replied as Roy ruffled Little Joe\u2019s curly hair.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHow about a cup of coffee?\u201d asked Roy pleasantly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll call by later Roy,\u201d said Ben. \u201cI\u2019ve got an appointment at the bank.\u201d He motioned to Joe who was fidgeting by his side. \u201cCome along Joseph.\u201d He grabbed the little boy by the hand and pulled him along beside him, not noticing the pained expression on the little boy\u2019s face as he held back. \u201cI said to come along!\u201d he said in an irritated voice and jerked once again on his son\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOw!\u201d cried the little boy. Tears began to fall down his face as a wave of pain shot through his elbow and up his arm. He began to sob and drew his hand back from his father.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Several of the women turned at the sound and Roy Coffee immediately looked concerned. \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter?\u201d asked Ben, looking down at his son with concern on his face.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNuthin,\u201d sobbed Joe, nursing his elbow in his other hand.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Roy took a few steps forward and several of the women clustered around. \u201cIt\u2019s his arm,\u201d said one of them helpfully. \u201cPoor little mite is holding onto it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben bent down. \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter with your arm?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNuthin,\u201d repeated Joe, still nursing it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou pulled on it and hurt the poor little thing,\u201d said a second woman. \u201cI saw you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Guilt immediately coursed through Ben and he picked up his now sobbing little son. \u201cDid I hurt you?\u201d he asked contritely. \u201cI\u2019m sorry son, I didn\u2019t mean to.\u201d He ignored one of the women who sniffed behind him and the whispers of several of the others.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMaybe you\u2019d better get him down ta Doc Martin Ben,\u201d suggested Roy. \u201cThat arm of his don\u2019t look too good.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded as he noticed the strange angle that Joe was holding it at. \u201cI will,\u201d he said and turned to go. Behind him he heard the shocked voices of the women.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDisgraceful!\u201d said one.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDid you see the way he hurt that poor little mite? You\u2019d think that he\u2019d have more sense.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know he\u2019s been upset \u2026 what with Marie and all \u2026 but really! To take it out on a small child like that \u2026 disgraceful!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben\u2019s face burned with guilt and embarrassment and he could hardly get away from them quickly enough. He tried not to joggle his son as he carried him towards the doctor\u2019s office, but try as he would Little Joe was yelling with the pain by the time he got him there.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s happened?\u201d asked Doctor Paul Martin as he heard the noise and opened the door. \u201cWhat on earth \u2026\u201d One look at the sobbing Little Joe in his father\u2019s arms and he ushered Ben into the inner office without another word. Ben put Joe down on the examining table and hovered over the child anxiously as Paul began to gently probe his arm.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHis elbow is dislocated,\u201d said the doctor shortly. \u201cHow did this happen?\u201d He gently laid the child down on the table and began to slowly ease off his shirt.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben hesitated before taking off his hat and running his fingers through his hair. \u201cI \u2026 I did it,\u201d he admitted, looking away from the doctor\u2019s amazed look as he spoke. \u201cI guess it happened when I pulled on his arm.\u201d He tried to soothe the sobbing little boy on the table and then then looked at Paul with an ashamed expression. \u201cI didn\u2019t think I was tugging on it that hard,\u201d he said. \u201cI just didn\u2019t think.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Paul nodded. \u201cThese things happen,\u201d he said. \u201cChildren\u2019s bones are very fragile. Hold onto him Ben while I give him a sedative. This is going to hurt him.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben bent down over his son and held onto him as Paul gave him a sedative and then pushed the joint back into place with experienced hands. He winced as Little Joe screamed aloud at the sudden pain and tried to soothe him as his own pain at the thought of what he\u2019d done washed over him. Never before had he been the cause of one of his sons being hurt and the very thought of the shame of it was enough to make him nearly cry.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n As Paul was bandaging up Little Joe\u2019s arm, he glanced at the expression on Ben\u2019s face. \u201cYou didn\u2019t mean it Ben,\u201d he said. \u201cYou shouldn\u2019t feel guilty about this.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben shook his head as he lifted a quieter Little Joe into his arms and hugged him to his chest. \u201cHow can I not feel guilty Paul? What kind of father am I to have done such a thing to my own son?\u201d He smoothed Little Joe\u2019s curls as the little boy leant his head on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u201cThere, there,\u201d he whispered soothingly. \u201cIt\u2019s all over now son. Pa\u2019s going to take you home now.\u201d He gave Paul another guilty look. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cJust keep that arm as still as possible,\u201d instructed Paul as he showed Ben to the door. \u201cAnd bring him into see me in a week or so.\u201d He patted Ben on the arm. \u201cHe\u2019ll be fine.\u201d Ben nodded to him and carried Little Joe out into the street. He went straight to the buckboard, ignoring all those who stood and stared at him as he did so.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa?\u201d said a sleepy Little Joe as his father carefully placed him on the seat. \u201cAin\u2019t ya going to the bank?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cForget that,\u201d replied his father as he got up into the buckboard himself. \u201cI\u2019m getting you home.\u201d He drew up the reins and then hesitated as Roy Coffee approached him.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBen!\u201d shouted Roy as he waved at him. \u201cIs Little Joe\u2019s arm all right?\u201d He gave the little boy an anxious smile and Joe gave him a weak one in return.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHis elbow was dislocated,\u201d replied Ben in a low voice, conscious of all those standing around listening to him. \u201cI\u2019m going to get him straight home.\u201d He drew up the reins again and propped the sedated Little Joe under one arm before driving off down the street, his face still red with embarrassment and shame.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut Pa, Doc Martin said it wasn\u2019t your fault,\u201d insisted Adam. \u201cYou know that you didn\u2019t mean to do it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNevertheless Adam, I did,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cThe fact remains that because of my impatience your little brother was hurt and there\u2019s no excuse for that.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam sighed. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to stop blaming yourself,\u201d he said. \u201cJoe\u2019s arm will be fine in time. Doc Martin said so.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben glanced over at his youngest son who was playing checkers with Hoss near the coffee table. He was propped up on his good arm, his bandaged arm propped on a pillow by his side. \u201cI know,\u201d he said softly. \u201cBut I just can\u2019t forgive myself for what I did Adam.\u201d He put his hands over his face. \u201cHow could I have hurt him like that?\u00a0 I don\u2019t deserve to be his father.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam stared at his father, an anxious look on his face. He hadn\u2019t seen him like this for weeks and before this had happened had been convinced that his father was coming out of his melancholy. Now it appeared that the situation with Little Joe had caused him to slip back into it again. \u201cPa \u2026\u201d he began, and then stopped as there was a knock on the front door. As his father didn\u2019t look up at the sound, he got up himself and went to open it. \u201cEvening Sheriff,\u201d he said. \u201cEvening Doc Martin.\u201d He showed the two men into the room and indicated his father who was still sitting by the fireplace. \u201cPa\u2019s over there.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Both men took off their hats and went to sit down by Ben. \u201cEvening Ben,\u201d said Paul, giving the man an anxious look.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben looked up. \u201cRoy \u2026 Paul \u2026. What brings you two out here at night?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Roy and Paul exchanged a look. \u201cActually, we came to talk to you,\u201d replied Roy. He glanced at the two boys playing checkers. \u201cAlone if that\u2019s possible.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben straightened up in his chair. \u201cOf course,\u201d he said. \u201cAdam \u2026. Could you please put Joe to bed? Hoss \u2026 up you go as well.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAw gee Pa!\u201d protested Hoss. \u201cWe ain\u2019t finished our game!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAin\u2019t finished!\u201d echoed Little Joe.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou can finish it tomorrow,\u201d said Ben. \u201cBed \u2026 the both of you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Both boys sighed and stood up. Adam steadied Little Joe on his feet and began to lead him toward the stairs, but stopped as Paul spoke. \u201cI may as well take a look at that elbow while I\u2019m here,\u201d he said, beckoning the child over to him. Joe glanced at his father, who nodded, and then went to stand by the doctor.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s good,\u201d he said, giving the man a wary look. \u201cIt don\u2019t hurt none now.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Paul nodded as he undid the bandage. \u201cThat\u2019s fine,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s healing nicely.\u201d He ruffled the little boy\u2019s curly hair when he\u2019d done the bandage up again. \u201cYou can take it off in a few more days Ben,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded and waited while his boys walked up the stairs. \u201cWell?\u201d he said as soon as they\u2019d disappeared. \u201cWhat did you want to talk to me about?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Roy made a face and glanced at Paul before replying. \u201cWell it\u2019s like this Ben,\u201d he said. \u201cWe\u2019re kinda worried.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave them both a frustrated look. \u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d he said shortly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Roy gave Paul another look before continuing. \u201cWell to be honest Ben, it ain\u2019t you we\u2019re worried bout. It\u2019s them boys of yourn.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cMy boys?\u201d asked Ben, with an anxious expression on his face. \u201cWhat do you mean? Why are you worried about my boys? They\u2019re fine \u2026. Well, apart from Little Joe\u2019s elbow of course.\u201d He turned as Hop Sing entered the room with a scowl on his face and plonked a tray down on the coffee table.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCoffee,\u201d he said and left the room, still scowling.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Paul looked at Roy and then Ben. \u201cIs there something the matter with Hop Sing?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben shook his head. \u201cHe just out of sorts because of all the food we\u2019ve been sent. You know how he gets.\u201d He leant forward to pour out the coffee. \u201cIf it\u2019s Little Joe\u2019s elbow you\u2019re worried about Roy, then you heard Paul say that he\u2019s fine.\u201d He handed around the cups.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Roy shrugged. \u201cIt ain\u2019t really the elbow,\u201d he said. \u201cAlthough what happened in town the other day kinda prompted us ta come.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben raised his eyebrows in response. \u201cOh?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNow please don\u2019t take this the wrong way Ben, but there\u2019s been some talk in town,\u201d explained Paul. \u201cSome folks have been mighty worried about you and what with Little Joe the other day \u2026 well \u2026.\u201d He paused before continuing. \u201cRoy and I thought it would be best for the two of us to come and see you about it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou mean to come and check up on me,\u201d said Ben tersely. \u201cWhy do people think that \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPeople are just worried about you,\u201d interrupted Roy. \u201cThey only want what\u2019s best Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOf course,\u201d said Ben shortly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAs a matter of fact,\u201d said Paul. \u201cThere were a few people who wanted to come with us \u2026 but we stopped them.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCome with you? Why?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThey feel that maybe. Now don\u2019t take this the wrong way \u2026 but they feel that maybe the boys might be best taken away from you for while.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben placed his cup on the table in front of him and stared at both of the men for a full minute. \u201cWhat?\u201d he said finally. \u201cYou can\u2019t be serious? Who gives those \u2026 who give them the right to say whether or not my boys should be with me?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s been a lotta talk,\u201d said Roy. \u201cYou know how people get when they\u2019re riled up Ben. Seems that they think \u2026 well, they think that you ain\u2019t looking after the boys too well lately.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI am quite capable of looking after my own sons!\u201d exploded Ben angrily. \u201cAll this talk is just nonsense and the two of you know it!\u201d He looked from one to the other and was surprised to see that neither of them met his eyes. \u201cWhat?\u201d he said. \u201cSurely you two don\u2019t agree with all of this?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Paul sat forward on the sofa. \u201cBen, you must admit that you haven\u2019t been yourself lately,\u201d he said. \u201cThink about it. Maybe it would be best for Hoss and Little Joe to stay with one of the neighbours for while until \u2026 well until you\u2019re feeling up to it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cUp to it?\u201d said Ben angrily. \u201cUp to being a father to those boys? Let me tell you this Paul \u2026\u201d he turned to face the two of them, \u201c\u2026 and you two Roy. Those boys need to be here with myself and Adam at the moment \u2026. And Hop Sing \u2026 not with someone they hardly know. Their mother has just died, they need their family and \u2026.\u201d His eyes misted over. \u201c\u2026 and I need them,\u201d he finished.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Paul sighed. \u201cBen please don\u2019t take this personally,\u201d he said. \u201cWell all know how hard it has been for you these past weeks. You\u2019ve done your best, but with Adam leaving soon for back East and the way things are with you \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe way things are with me?\u201d interrupted Ben. \u201cI know that I didn\u2019t cope for a while \u2026. I\u2019ll admit that \u2026 but with Adam and Hop Sing helping me and the grace of God, I got through it. Now just as I\u2019m picking up the pieces of my life again you two come in here and \u2026\u201d He stopped, lost for words. \u201cWhat gives you the right?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Paul shook his head and stood up to face his friend. \u201cBen, we\u2019ve known each other for years and I think the world of you and the boys \u2026. As does Roy here as well \u2026 but I must be honest and say that I agree with what folks are saying. I have a duty as a doctor to ensure that those under my care are safe and healthy and frankly, I just can\u2019t say that about your boys at the moment. You know that it\u2019s true.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben hesitated, remembering his own recent doubts. He stared at the doctor and said nothing. \u201cBen, Little Joe was hurt \u2026 not seriously, but still hurt. Next time it might not be so simple.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThere won\u2019t be a next time,\u201d answered Ben softly. \u201cI\u2019ll make sure of that.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHow?\u201d asked Roy, standing up. \u201cYou ain\u2019t in control of your own feelings at the moment Ben. Why don\u2019t ya just admit ta that?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThink about what\u2019s best for the boys,\u201d urged Paul. \u201cLet them stay with neighbours for a while \u2026 just until you\u2019ve got your life back in order.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben raked his fingers through his hair. \u201cI \u2026 I don\u2019t know,\u201d he said softly. He looked at Paul and then Roy. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I sounded off at you both like that,\u201d he added. \u201cI just don\u2019t \u2026.\u201d He sat down heavily on the sofa. \u201cI just don\u2019t know what to do \u2026.\u201d He covered his face with his hands. \u201cI miss her so much,\u201d he said through his fingers. \u201cGod help me but I miss her!\u201d He looked up at his two friends. \u201cThey are all I have,\u201d he said. \u201cMy boys are my life.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen do what\u2019s best for them Ben,\u201d said Paul, sitting down beside his friend. \u201cLet them go for a while \u2026 it\u2019s for the best. You know that.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded. \u201cI\u2019ll think about it,\u201d he said heavily. \u201cI\u2019ll think about it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam walked down the stairs slowly and stood looking at his father as he sat hunched in front of the fireplace staring into the flames. Ben looked up. \u201cThe boys in bed?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes,\u201d said Adam. \u201cBut Joe says he\u2019s not going to sleep until you come up and see him,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded and then turned to stare into the fire again. \u201cIn a minute,\u201d he said in a dull voice.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam walked over and sat down next to the man. \u201cI heard what they said,\u201d he said softly. \u201cI couldn\u2019t help hearing.\u201d Ben nodded and said nothing. \u201cYou\u2019re not really going to let them go are you Pa?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n There was silence for a few minutes before Ben spoke. \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d he said in the same dull tone.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa you can\u2019t,\u201d protested his son. \u201cThey\u2019ll be upset. You know that they will.\u201d He tried to force a grin on his face. \u201cYou know what Little Joe will say \u2026 he\u2019ll kick anyone you try to make him stay with.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave a small smile and then looked serious again. \u201cMaybe it\u2019s for the best,\u201d he said, half to himself. \u201cThey need more than I can give them at the moment and Hop Sing is so busy \u2026\u201d His voice trailed away.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam drew a deep breath. \u201cWell what about me?\u201d he said. \u201cI looked after them before and I can do it again if you feel you\u2019re not up to it at the moment Pa. You know that I can.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben smiled at his son and put a hand on his arm. \u201cI know you can Adam, but you\u2019ll be leaving soon. Besides, I shouldn\u2019t rely on you in that way. I\u2019ve done it for too long already.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t mind,\u201d said Adam sincerely. He hesitated before adding. \u201cAnd as for college, well there\u2019s always next year.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben turned to face him. \u201cYou\u2019ve put it off long for long enough,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019re going.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut Pa \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben put up a hand. \u201cYou\u2019re going Adam and that\u2019s all there is to it. I\u2019ll not hear another word on the subject.\u201d He narrowed his eyes as he lost himself in thought. \u201cMaybe it\u2019ll be for the best,\u201d he said again softly. \u201cI owe them the best.\u201d\u00a0 He turned to face the fire again and was silent.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben looked around the table with a worried expression and then caught Adam\u2019s eye before speaking. \u201cWell that was a good supper boys, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d he said, trying to sound jovial.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss nodded and patted his stomach. \u201cSure was Pa,\u201d he said. He leant forward with a worried look. \u201cHop Sing cooked that one eh?\u201d he said in a conspiratorial tone.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded. \u201cYes son,\u201d he said, glancing over his shoulder to see if the cook was indeed in the kitchen. \u201cIt\u2019s all right. You can say that you liked it.\u201d He drew a deep breath. \u201cWell \u2026.\u201d Hoss and Little Joe looked at him expectantly, while Adam lowered his head and stared at the table. \u201cWell \u2026\u201d said Ben again, not sure how to start what he needed to say. \u201cThere\u2019s something I\u2019d like to talk about boys.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe shook his head, an anxious look immediately on his face. \u201cI neva done it,\u201d he said defensively.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave him a puzzled look. \u201cYou never did what?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe shrugged. \u201cWhatever it is you wanna talk to us about,\u201d he said, \u201cI neva done nothing!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben stared at his son for a moment before continuing. \u201cNo one did anything,\u201d he said. \u201cWhat I want to talk to you about is \u2026\u201d He hesitated again. \u201cWell \u2026. It concerns both you and Hoss, Little Joe.\u201d He glanced at Adam again, who continued to stare at the table, his jaw clenched. \u201cI\u2019ve been thinking that it might be a good idea for both of you to \u2026 to stay with the Parkins family for a while,\u201d Ben said in a rush, trying not to look at the expressions of concern that came over both boys\u2019 face instantly. \u201cJust until \u2026 just until I\u2019m \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe jumped off his chair and ran around to his father, putting his hands on Ben\u2019s lap and gazing up at him with an anxious expression. \u201cDon\u2019t ya love us no more Pa?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben jerked. He bent down, picked up his small son and placed him on his lap before replying. \u201cOf course I love you,\u201d he said quickly. \u201cI love both of you \u2026 all of you,\u201d he added, looking across at Adam.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen why do ya wanna send us away?\u201d asked Joe, his bottom lip beginning to quiver. \u201cYou said we ain\u2019t done nuthin wrong!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo, you haven\u2019t done anything wrong,\u201d admitted his father.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen why?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBecause I just don\u2019t seem to be able to look after you as well as I should at the moment,\u201d replied Ben. \u201cIn a little while I will again.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou look after us jest fine Pa,\u201d declared Hoss.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cJest fine,\u201d echoed Little Joe. He sat up straighter on his father\u2019s lap. \u201cSides,\u201d he added. \u201cAdam can look after us iffen you can\u2019t Pa.\u201d He gave Adam a confident look, but his older brother didn\u2019t meet his eyes.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNormally he could,\u201d said Ben. \u201cBut Adam is going away soon \u2026. remember?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen we can look after ourselves,\u201d declared Hoss confidently. \u201cIts OK Pa \u2026 we won\u2019t be no trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo trouble,\u201d echoed Little Joe.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben hesitated. \u201cBoys, it isn\u2019t that simple,\u201d he said. \u201cBesides, it isn\u2019t for all the time. I thought that you could just stay with the Parkins\u2019 during the week while you\u2019re at school Hoss and come home on the weekends.\u201d He tried to smile at both of them. \u201cThat will be all right, won\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n They both shook their heads and Little Joe hugged his father around the neck. \u201cDon\u2019t send us away Pa!\u201d he begged as he began to cry. \u201cWe won\u2019t be no trouble. Please!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben\u2019s heart began to ache. \u201cBoys, I don\u2019t want to \u2026..\u201d he began.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThen don\u2019t,\u201d said Adam, raising his head and speaking for the first time.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n There was silence around the table. Ben looked at Adam who gave him a baleful look in return, he looked at Hoss who was biting his bottom lip anxiously and looked as if he were about to cry, and then he looked at Little Joe who was still clinging onto his neck and crying. \u201cIt\u2019s for the best,\u201d Ben said lamely. There was silence again, only interrupted by Little Joe\u2019s sobbing. \u201cAll right,\u201d Ben said finally. \u201cI can\u2019t do it. I\u2019m not sending you. We\u2019ll work it out somehow.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThanks Pa,\u201d said Hoss, breathing a sigh of relief.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThanks Pa,\u201d echoed Little Joe, planting a wet kiss on his father\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019ll be OK,\u201d Adam assured his father.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave them all a smile. \u201cOf course,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSo you see Roy, I\u2019ve changed my mind,\u201d said Ben. \u201cOr at least the boys changed it for me. I know that you mean well \u2026 everyone does \u2026 but I can\u2019t let them go. We\u2019ll work it out somehow.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Roy fingered his chin thoughtfully. \u201cI\u2019m afraid it ain\u2019t as simple as all that,\u201d he said. \u201cSeems like some of the folks round town are pretty riled up bout your boys Ben. Some of em approached Judge Whitaker and there\u2019s gonna be an inquest.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben straightened up in his chair. \u201cWhat do you mean \u2026 an inquest?\u201d he said angrily. \u201cInquest about what?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYour boys,\u201d said Roy. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Ben, but you ain\u2019t got no choice in the matter. Sorry as I am ta say it, some folks have complained to the county and Judge Whitaker is gonna look into the matter. Seems they are demanding that the boys be taken from you for a while \u2026. Just until you\u2019re on top of things again,\u201d he added quickly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat?!\u201d thundered Ben. \u201cWhat right have they got? How dare they! We\u2019ll just see about this!\u201d He stood up. \u201cI\u2019m going to see Judge Whitaker myself and have this out with him!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBen don\u2019t get riled up,\u201d said Roy, but stopped as he realised that he was talking to an empty room. He walked over and shut the door that was still swinging on its hinges and sighed.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben stalked into Judge Whitaker\u2019s office and thumped on the inner door. \u201cFred!\u201d he shouted. \u201cAre you in there?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The door opened to reveal a short, rotund man with thinning hair. \u201cBen,\u201d said the judge. \u201cI\u2019m glad you\u2019re here. I was coming out to see you this afternoon. We need to talk.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe do indeed!\u201d declared Ben, striding into the room. \u201cWhat\u2019s all this I hear from Roy about an inquest? This can\u2019t be true!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m afraid it is,\u201d said the judge mildly. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Ben, but I have no choice but to look into the matter. When I have a complaint I have no choice but to act on it. Please sit down and we can talk.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben ignored the invitation. \u201cI am not parting with my boys!\u201d he declared angrily. \u201cNo one has the right to take them from me!\u201d He glared at the other man, daring him say differently.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo one is going to take your boys from you Ben,\u201d said the judge. \u201cIt\u2019s just that I\u2019m bound by law to look into how they\u2019re being cared for at the moment. You must understand.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI understand nothing!\u201d shouted Ben. \u201cI\u2019m going to fight this every step of the way!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBen \u2026 you yourself told Paul Martin and Roy Coffee that you didn\u2019t know what was for the best. Why \u2026 you even agreed to let them stay with the Parkins\u2019. I thought that it was all settled.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI changed my mind,\u201d said Ben in a calmer tone. \u201cThey need to be with me now that Marie is dead.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI agree,\u201d replied the judge.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave him a startled look. \u201cYou do?\u201d he said. \u201cThen why all this business about an inquest, for heavens sake?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The judge shrugged his shoulders. \u201cI told you \u2026 it\u2019s my job. Now I can\u2019t promise you how things will go Ben, but I can say that given all the information that I\u2019ve heard from people already there\u2019s no reason why the boys shouldn\u2019t stay with you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben sat down and gave a sigh of relief. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Fred,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s just \u2026\u201d He sighed heavily. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d he said again.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Fred Whitaker sat down next to him. \u201cBen I can\u2019t promise you anything,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I can promise that after hearing what everyone has to say then I\u2019ll make the best decision for your boys that I can. Everyone just wants what\u2019s best for them and for you.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know,\u201d said Ben. \u201cFolks are only showing their concern for us all \u2026. It\u2019s just that I resent being told how to manage my own family.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know,\u201d said the judge. \u201cBut sometimes in life we can\u2019t always do for ourselves. It\u2019s at those times that we need to lean on the strength of others. Now why don\u2019t you go and talk to Hiram Wood your attorney and see if you can set up a list of people to speak on your behalf. I\u2019ll hear from anyone that you want me to.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded. \u201cYes,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m sure that Paul and Roy will support me.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd there\u2019ll be others too,\u201d said the judge. \u201cThe folks who know what a good father you are will vouch for you Ben, and those who want to say the opposite \u2026 well just remember that they\u2019re doing what they think is for the best. It isn\u2019t you they\u2019re talking against \u2026 it\u2019s for your boys.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded. \u201cYes,\u201d he said, trying to sound more positive. \u201cI\u2019ll go and see Hiram now. Thank you Fred.\u201d But in spite of his words, he left the judge\u2019s office with a heavy heart.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cRoy Coffee has agreed to speak on my behalf,\u201d said Ben that evening as he and Adam sat next to the fireplace. \u201cAnd Hiram is sounding out a few more people.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhat about Doctor Martin?\u201d asked Adam. \u201cSurely he will?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOf course,\u201d replied his father. \u201cOnly as a doctor he has a responsibility to give his opinion about the incident with Joe\u2019s elbow. Hiram seems to feel that that particular incident is vital.\u201d He sighed. \u201cIt seems to be the sticking point with most of those who are speaking against me at any rate.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa, they\u2019re not speaking against you,\u201d said Adam. \u201cYou said that Judge Whitaker mentioned that they only have our family\u2019s well being in mind.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded. \u201cYes,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I can\u2019t help but feel that way Adam. After all I\u2019ve done around here for other folks \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWhich is precisely the reason they are trying to look out for you now,\u201d replied Adam earnestly. \u201cYou\u2019ve said so yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben nodded again and sighed. \u201cI know,\u201d he said. \u201cThis just isn\u2019t straightforward I guess. At least I can be grateful that Fred is going to make this as easy as possible.\u00a0 He\u2019s making this a closed hearing and only those directly involved will be allowed in. I\u2019m grateful for that.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAre you going to tell Hoss and Little Joe?\u201d asked Adam.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo. There\u2019s no need for them to get upset,\u201d said his father. \u201cIf the ruling goes against me tomorrow, then there\u2019ll be time to tell them then. Besides, it isn\u2019t as if they won\u2019t be close by,\u201d he added. \u201cThey\u2019ll just be with a family close by for a while. I have to try and see the good side of things.\u201d He stared into the fire. \u201cWe all will,\u201d he said softly.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam put his hand on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u201cIt\u2019ll all work out OK Pa,\u201d he said. \u201cYou\u2019ll see.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Up at the top of the staircase, Little Joe glared at Hoss and pouted. \u201cI\u2019m gonna kick em!\u201d he said in a loud whisper. \u201cI\u2019m gonna kick anyone who tries to take us from our Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss put his hand over his little brother\u2019s mouth. \u201cShh!\u201d he whispered back. \u201cThey\u2019ll hear us Joe!\u201d He pulled his little brother into his bedroom and shut the door. The two brothers looked at each other anxiously. \u201cI reckon we gotta do something Joe,\u201d Hoss said finally. \u201cBut I ain\u2019t sure what.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe thought for a moment. \u201cWe can\u2019t let em take us away Hoss,\u201d he said, sounding as if he was about to burst into tears. \u201cI reckon we should run away afore they do!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss shook his head. \u201cWhat\u2019s the point in that?\u201d he asked. \u201cWe\u2019ll only upset Pa and they\u2019ll find us and take us away anyways.\u201d He scratched his head. \u201cNo \u2026 we gotta think of something else.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI know!\u201d said Joe suddenly, his eyes lighting up. \u201cLet\u2019s tell Pa to take us into town with him tomorrow and we\u2019ll tell that judge that we don\u2019t wanna go away with another family. The judge might listen to us!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss thought for a moment. \u201cWon\u2019t work Joe,\u201d he said sadly. \u201cYou heard Pa. He ain\u2019t gonna tell us bout this until it\u2019s all over, let alone take us in there with him.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut he\u2019s gotta Hoss,\u201d said Joe desperately. \u201cOtherwise how\u2019s that judge gonna know what we think? No one asked us what we think and that ain\u2019t fair!\u201d he declared.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss looked at his little brother. \u201cYou\u2019re right there Joe,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I still reckon that Pa ain\u2019t gonna let us go.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWell then we won\u2019t tell him,\u201d said Joe. \u201cLet\u2019s wait till he\u2019s gone and then we can follow him in. Iffen we go in and see that judge then it\u2019ll be too late fer him to stop us.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHow are we gonna get there?\u201d asked Hoss. \u201cI can ride in sure enuff, but you ain\u2019t big enuff to ride by yourself yet Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe put on his stubborn look. \u201cI am,\u201d he said. \u201cOnly Pa don\u2019t know that yet. Iffen he\u2019d done give me a pony like I wanted stead of me having to wait until I\u2019m bigger \u2026\u201d His eyes brightened up again. \u201cI know,\u201d he said. \u201cYou can ride and I can sit behind and hold on the back of you Hoss. I\u2019ve done that plenty of time with Adam when he rides Sport.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss thought again. \u201cYeah,\u201d he said. \u201cThat might work. OK \u2026 I\u2019ll pretend that I\u2019m going to school as usual in the morning and then I\u2019ll hide and come back for you when Pa and Adam leave. Hop Sing won\u2019t know you\u2019re gone until after and then it\u2019ll be too late fer him to stop us.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYeah,\u201d said Joe with a grin. His grin suddenly turned to a frown. \u201cHey Hoss? Do ya reckon that the judge is gonna be scary with big whiskers? I ain\u2019t never seen a judge before.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t rightly know Joe,\u201d admitted Hoss. \u201cI ain\u2019t never seen one neither. But we gotta do it no matter how scary he is. We jest gotta stay with Pa no matter what.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYeah,\u201d agreed Joe. \u201cNo matter what.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben sat stony-faced staring at the wall in front of him, while he listened to yet another woman speak about how he was neglecting his two youngest sons. He knew that they had the best intentions, yet he found it extremely difficult to sit and listen to how they considered he was being a neglectful father. Thank goodness for those who had spoken up earlier and said the opposite.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The biggest sticking point seemed to be Little Joe\u2019s hurt elbow as Hiram had prophesised it would be. Paul Martin had tried his best for Ben, but as a doctor he had been bound to state how the elbow had been dislocated and describe Ben\u2019s actions that had caused it. That had not gone down well with the judge as Ben could tell from his expression.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam sat beside his father, silently willing the judge to see reason through all of this. It was so obvious to him that his two brothers needed their family around them at the moment, but he wasn\u2019t so sure that Judge Whitaker would agree. The way some of those women were describing the situation, anyone would have thought that his father was a terrible parent, whereas Adam knew it to be quite the opposite. While it was true that Ben had not quite been the man he usually was these past months, Adam knew more than anyone just what his father was capable of. He had had to step in and take over a lot of things lately, but he knew that the situation was only temporary. He fidgeted in his seat, wishing that he could jump up and say so to all these interfering busybodies around him. Hiram had made it clear that he would have his chance to speak and he needed to be patient until it was his turn, but he was finding it increasingly difficult to be so.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam started as he heard his name called out. \u201cAdam Cartwright.\u201d He felt his father\u2019s hand on his arm and smiled at him before standing up and walking to the front of the room.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Judge Whitaker took off his glasses and looked at Adam. \u201cHave a seat young man,\u201d he said. \u201cNow tell me what your feelings are about this situation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam sat down and faced the judge. \u201cWell \u2026\u201d he began. \u201cFirst of all I want to say that this whole thing is ridiculous. My Pa is very capable of looking after my two brothers at the moment. Just because certain people think he\u2019s not \u2026 well, they don\u2019t live with him and they don\u2019t know. He\u2019s a wonderful father to us all \u2026\u201d He glanced at his father. \u201cHe always has been. He\u2019d do anything for Hoss or Joe or myself. None of us could have a better father.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The judge nodded thoughtfully. \u201cI see,\u201d he said. \u201cYour sentiments are commendable young man. So you\u2019re telling me that you don\u2019t think your brothers have been neglected by your father lately?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam hesitated and then shook his head. \u201cNo sir,\u201d he said. \u201cNot \u2026 not in any way that could harm them. He\u2019s been grieving for my stepmother since she died and I think that\u2019s very understandable, but he has always made sure that the boys were looked after. Whenever he couldn\u2019t do it the way he wanted to, then he knew that myself or Hop Sing was there to help.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHop Sing?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOur housekeeper.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI see. But ..\u201d The judge referred to his notes. \u201cI see that you are due to leave for back East in a few weeks to attend college?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam licked his lips. \u201cYes,\u201d he admitted.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd do you think that this \u2026 Hop Sing \u2026 will be able to cope without you there? If your father isn\u2019t managing as well as he\u2019d like to I mean?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYes sir, I do,\u201d replied Adam confidently.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHmm \u2026 well thank you Adam,\u201d said the judge. \u201cThat will be all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI have something else to say,\u201d said Adam, not budging from his chair. He waited until the judge nodded and then continued. \u201cEven if Pa had no one to help him, then he would still cope with the boys,\u201d he said. \u201cHe is much better now than he was a few months ago. He is interested in them and what they do \u2026 and he would always make sure that they were happy and safe. I don\u2019t understand why all this is happening.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The judge took off his glasses again and stared at Adam for a moment. \u201cWere you there when your little brother\u2019s elbow was dislocated?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Adam swallowed. \u201cNo sir,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd you are aware how it happened?\u201d the judge asked. \u201cYour father pulled on the little boy\u2019s arm with such force that he dislocated it?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut \u2026\u201d Adam stopped as the door was opened and his two brothers entered the room. Hoss was holding Little Joe\u2019s hand and they both looked terrified, but they didn\u2019t hesitate as they walked across the room towards the judge.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAnd just who do we have here?\u201d asked the judge.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cEric! Joseph!\u201d said Ben. \u201cWhat on earth are you two doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss gave his father an apologetic look. \u201cWe hadta come Pa,\u201d he said. \u201cWe got things we need ta say to the judge.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYeah,\u201d agreed Little Joe, standing close to his brother\u2019s side as he looked around at the roomful of people. He turned to the judge. \u201cWe gotta tell you not to make us go away from our Pa,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The judge nodded. \u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss took a step forward. \u201cAnd what you was saying bout Joe\u2019s arm a minute ago \u2026 well that ain\u2019t right sir.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Judge Whitaker looked confused, as did Ben and all the others in the room. \u201cNot right?\u201d the judge asked. \u201cHow so, young man?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa neva done it,\u201d admitted Hoss. \u201cI did.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben stood up. \u201cWhat are you talking about Hoss?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s true Pa,\u201d said Hoss, looking at the floor. \u201cI hurt Joe\u2019s arm when we was roughhousing, but we didn\u2019t tell you cause we thought that we\u2019d be in trouble for it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben turned to Little Joe. \u201cJoseph, why didn\u2019t you tell me that day in town?\u201d he asked. \u201cYou heard me talking to the doctor about it.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe shook his head. \u201cNo, I neva,\u201d he said. \u201cI was hurting too much Pa. I neva heard you say nothing cause I was crying.\u201d Ben nodded as he remembered the day all too well \u2026 his little boy had been in a great deal of pain and obviously hadn\u2019t heard anything while he had been lying on the examining table. Up until now, both Hoss and Little Joe had been totally unaware that his injury had been blamed on his father.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hoss took another step forward, dragging Little Joe with him. \u201cPlease don\u2019t take us away from our Pa,\u201d he said. \u201cWe won\u2019t be no trouble to him. He\u2019s the best Pa there is in the whole world and we wanna stay with him.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cStay with him,\u201d echoed Little Joe, his eyes wide as gave the judge an entreating look.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The judge hesitated, as he looked first at the two boys and then up at Ben. \u201cI had actually already made my decision to let them stay with you before these two appeared,\u201d he said. \u201cAnd in light of the fact that you seem to be blameless of injuring your son Ben, I am very satisfied that you are capable of looking after them.\u201d He looked around the room. \u201cI know that many of you have been acting in what you feel are the best interests of these boys, but I feel that their place is with their father at this time. From all I\u2019ve heard, he is more than capable of looking after them. That is all.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben stepped forward, his eyes misting over with tears. \u201cThank you Fred,\u201d he said simply as he drew both his younger sons towards him. \u201cThank you.\u201d Adam came up and walked over to stand next to his father as Ben bent down and picked up Little Joe before turning towards the door.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Little Joe hugged his father around the neck happily and loudly whispered into his ear in a voice that could be heard around the room. \u201cThat judge ain\u2019t so scary after all Pa. He don\u2019t have big whiskers or nothing!\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben patted him on the back and Hoss looked up at his father anxiously. \u201cAre ya gonna give us a tanning for doing roughhousing Pa?\u201d he asked. \u201cI didn\u2019t mean ta hurt Joe\u2019s arm. Sides, it\u2019s all better now.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cAll better now,\u201d echoed Little Joe, showing his father how he could move it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben smiled and ruffled Hoss\u2019 sandy hair. \u201cNo son,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m not going to give you a tanning \u2026 this time,\u201d he added. Hoss immediately looked relieved.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBen?\u201d Sarah Parkins stepped forward, surrounded by several of the other women who had spoken up that morning. Ben stopped and looked at them. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d she said. \u201cWe\u2019re all sorry. We thought we were acting for the best \u2026. for you and your boys.\u201d She looked at Little Joe in his father\u2019s arms fondly as the child scowled back at her. \u201cIt\u2019s obvious that you need to be with your boys \u2026 and they need to be with you,\u201d she said. \u201cI realise that now.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThank you,\u201d said Ben.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo hard feelings?\u201d she asked anxiously.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo hard feelings,\u201d he replied.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m gonna kick you iffen you try to take us away from our Pa!\u201d declared Little Joe fiercely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThat will do!\u201d said his father sternly. \u201cStop that talk immediately or you will get a tanning young man!\u201d Little Joe shut his mouth instantly and put his head down on his father\u2019s shoulder, looking away from the women. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d said Ben apologetically.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe loves you dearly Ben,\u201d said Sarah. \u201cThey all do \u2026 anyone can see that.\u201d She touched him on the arm gently. \u201cThe offer still stands,\u201d she said. \u201cIf ever you need a break, you only need to say. I\u2019m happy to take Little Joe for a day or even a few hours for you.\u201d Several of the other women nodded their heads and offered their support as well. \u201cAnd you can guarantee that we\u2019ll still do some cooking for you,\u201d said Sarah.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben tried to look grateful. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said. \u201cBut you shouldn\u2019t go to that bother.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo bother at all,\u201d said the woman happily. \u201cWe\u2019re pleased to be able to help. You tell Hop Sing that he can expect some dishes from several of us soon.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cBut Pa \u2026\u201d began Hoss and pulled on his father\u2019s sleeve. \u201cHop Sing don\u2019t \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cShh,\u201d said Ben quickly. \u201cThank you ladies,\u201d he said. \u201cCome along boys.\u201d He led Adam and Hoss from the room while Little Joe glared over his shoulder at the women behind them.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ^^^^^^^^^^<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cTold ya that Hop Sing would still be mad iffen we got some of them ladies\u2019 cooking,\u201d said Hoss as the cook flounced from the room again back to the kitchen.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cShh,\u201d said his father.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cPa couldn\u2019t very well tell all those women that he didn\u2019t want their food,\u201d whispered Adam. \u201cEven if it does make Hop Sing upset.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cI like it!\u201d declared Little Joe happily as he munched on a pork chop. \u201cThem ladies cook good food,\u201d he added oblivious to the expression on Hop Sing\u2019s face as he re-entered the room and heard him. \u201cHow come you don\u2019t cook us no pork chops like these ones Hop Sing?\u201d he wondered aloud.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ben gave Hop Sing an apologetic look as the cook slammed another plate down on the table. \u201cYum!\u201d said Joe through his pork chop. \u201cI like them little cakes for dessert!\u201d Hop Sing snorted and left the room in a huff.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cLittle Joe, I\u2019ve told you before not to say how much you like the ladies\u2019 cooking in front of Hop Sing, haven\u2019t I?\u201d Ben reminded his son gently. \u201cYou have to have some tact.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Joe looked confused. \u201cI ain\u2019t got no tacks,\u201d he said. \u201cYou want me to get you some from the barn?\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cNo son,\u201d sighed his father. \u201cNot that kind of tacks .. I mean tact. Just eat up your supper.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Summary:\u00a0 The women of the town try to help the Cartwright family after Marie\u2019s death, causing Ben nothing but headaches.The End<\/h1>\n
\nRating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 13,690 words<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":41001,"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":[23,1008,30,13],"tags":[1139],"class_list":["post-63582","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-prequels","category-whn","tag-marie-my-love","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-30-id","wpcat-13-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\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63582","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\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=63582"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63582\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/41001"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=63582"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=63582"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=63582"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}