{"id":69445,"date":"2026-08-01T01:23:39","date_gmt":"2026-08-01T05:23:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=69445"},"modified":"2026-10-05T13:44:21","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T17:44:21","slug":"custard-filled-doughnuts-by-vcls","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=69445","title":{"rendered":"Custard-Filled Doughnuts (by DJK)"},"content":{"rendered":"
Summary: Hop Sing\u2019s custard-filled doughnuts were prized by all whenever he made them. \u00a0Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons did not feel the need to play fair when it came to obtaining such culinary delights, and the thief simply stole them.\u00a0 Written for the 2026 Ponderosa Paddlewheel Poker Tournament.<\/div>\n
Rating: T
\nWord Count:\u00a0 7,023<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo! \u00a0No sweets before dinner!\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing\u2019s cleaver delivered an exclamation point as he cut through muscle and bone with a single chop.<\/div>\n
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\u201cBut I just\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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A second chop cut through both meat and Little Joe\u2019s whine. \u201cNo! Boy need eat dinner. \u00a0Won\u2019t if fill of sweets.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2019ll eat my dinner. \u00a0I\u2019ll eat it all.\u201d \u00a0Another chop and a glare from Hop Sing pulled Joe\u2019s lower lip forward. \u00a0\u201cI will!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cAlways you say; never you do.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cJust one. \u00a0A little one. \u00a0Please?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe plopped down on the table bench. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re not fair!\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing paused and turned to fully face the twelve-year-old. \u00a0\u201cHow not fair?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou\u2019d let Hoss have one.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe straightened with indignation. \u00a0\u201cYou know you would. \u00a0You always do!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe always eat dinner. \u00a0Eat all dinner!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cJust \u2018cause he\u2019s a hard keeper you like him best!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe slumped into a full pout.<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing shook his head and set the cleaver down. \u00a0He sighed. \u00a0\u201cBrother no horse. \u00a0Brother no favorite. Boys all different. \u00a0Hop Sing decide what is right for each. \u00a0Now stop sulk.\u201d \u00a0 The cook picked up his cleaver.<\/div>\n
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Both Little Joe\u2019s sulking and whining continued at a higher volume. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019d let Hoss; you\u2019d let Adam, you\u2019d let Pa. \u00a0I\u2019m the onliest one\u2026\u201d \u00a0Little Joe swallowed as he watched Hop Sing set down the cleaver and pick up a large, long-handled wooden spoon. Standing quickly, Little Joe began to back toward the door, turned, and darted from the kitchen pondering the fact that a small Chinese man could look more intimidating with a spoon in his hand then with a honed cleaver there. \u00a0Then he sighed, knowing the reason: Hop Sing would never use a cleaver on one of Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons but had used his wooden spoon on all of them.<\/div>\n
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Entering the great room, Joe threw himself into the blue chair just because it was Adam\u2019s favorite and his elder brother should be arriving home anytime now. \u00a0He heard the door open and watched his brother Hoss enter the house. \u00a0Little Joe mumbled softly to himself as the eighteen-year-old divested himself of his hat and gun belt. \u201cThere he is now, the old hard keeper. \u00a0I wouldn\u2019t be surprised if he just waltzed in there and\u2026\u201d \u00a0Little Joe straightened from his slouch and called to his brother. \u00a0\u201cHey, Hoss!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHey, Short Shanks. \u00a0Adam back yet?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNot yet. \u00a0Um, you hungry?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss eyed his little brother. \u00a0\u201cWhy ya asking?\u201d His entire family knew he was always hungry when arriving home.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo special reason except\u2026\u201d \u00a0Joe let his voice fade.<\/div>\n
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\u201cExcept what?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHop Sing\u2019s got a whole platter of doughnuts in the kitchen.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe does; does he?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYep. \u00a0Why don\u2019t you go and get us a couple?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cGet us a couple, uh?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah. You can carry two doughnuts, can\u2019t you?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss snorted. \u00a0\u201cYou had any of them doughnuts already?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo. \u00a0I ain\u2019t had nothing since lunch.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss walked over and looked down at Little Joe. \u00a0\u201cWhy don\u2019t you go get us a couple?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou\u2019re already standing.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe looked up and grinned.<\/div>\n
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Hoss smirked. \u201cAnd Hop Sing done already told ya that ya couldn\u2019t have none before supper.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Joe lost his smile. \u201cHe\u2019ll let you have some, and that ain\u2019t fair. \u00a0Are you going to let your little brother suffer such injustice? \u00a0Are you?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhy are ya so sure he\u2019ll let me have even one?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBecause you\u2019re as much of a hard keeper as that horse of yours.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe huffed his displeasure and went into a pout.<\/div>\n
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Hoss laughed. \u00a0\u201cChub and me both need more to keep going than\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss decided that the word puny would set his brother off and cleared his throat. \u201cUm, them that is less strapping and hard-working than us.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe snorted. \u00a0Hoss shook his head and started toward the kitchen. \u00a0Joe stuck out his tongue at his brother\u2019s brawny back.<\/div>\n
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Entering the kitchen, Hoss gave a loud, long sniff of appreciation. \u00a0\u201cDinner\u2019s smelling grand, Hop Sing.\u201d He glanced around and spotted the platter of doughnuts.<\/div>\n
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The cook rolled his eyes. \u00a0\u201cDinner ready in less than hour. \u00a0What you need?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss licked his lips. \u00a0\u201cWell, a few of them doughnuts would probably keep my stomach from rumbling loud enough to wake the dead.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThink one keep the dead asleep.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cMaybe, but\u2026 well, compared to my mouth, they\u2019re kinda small. \u00a0Three would\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cTwo.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing pointed his wooden spoon at Hoss and then at the platter. \u00a0\u201cTwo only before supper or none after.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss assessed Hop Sing\u2019s resolve. \u00a0Planning to eat a good half-dozen of the doughnuts for dessert, he picked out two of the plumpest and smiled. \u201cThanks, Hop Sing.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss returned to the great room. \u00a0Stopping next to the blue chair, he looked down at his baby brother who radiated dejection. \u00a0He sighed and placed one of the doughnuts in front of Little Joe\u2019s eyes. \u00a0\u201cIf Hop Sing gets mad \u2018cause ya don\u2019t clean your plate, I\u2019ll pound ya myself.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe snatched the sweet. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ll eat my supper! I\u2019ve done told Hop Sing that. \u00a0Besides I want to eat a least three for dessert.\u201d \u00a0He quickly took a bite. \u00a0\u201cMmmmmm.\u201d \u00a0He sighed in appreciation.<\/div>\n
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As he swallowed his last bite, Little Joe heard the front door open and close. \u00a0He turned his head to see his elder brother, nudged Hoss\u2019s thigh with his elbow, and called out a greeting to Adam.<\/div>\n
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Adam walked over to his brothers. \u00a0\u201cWhen\u2019s supper?\u201d \u00a0He knew Hoss would have already asked Hop Sing exactly when the meal would be served.<\/div>\n
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\u201cAbout another hour.\u201d \u00a0Hoss glanced down at Little Joe.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah, Hop Sing was real busy this afternoon.\u201d \u00a0Joe\u2019s tone was slightly overeager.<\/div>\n
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Adam\u2019s hand rubbed his chin. \u00a0\u201cHe was, was he?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYea, he was frying up a big batch of doughnuts, the custard-filled ones you like so much. Those take lots of time. \u00a0He even covered them with powdered sugar.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cIs that so?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah. \u00a0You could get each of us one seeing as it\u2019s so long until supper.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam studied his baby brother. \u00a0\u201cChocolate or vanilla custard?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBoth, I think. \u00a0I\u2019d favor vanilla.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cIs that because you\u2019ve already had a chocolate-filled one?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2026 I\u2026\u201d Little Joe began to sputter. \u00a0Adam reached out and wiped the corner of Joe\u2019s mouth with his thumb before the boy could actually tell him a fib. \u201cNo more for you, little boy. \u00a0You will not be spoiling your dinner.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s eyes rose to Hoss\u2019s face. \u00a0\u201cIt wouldn\u2019t be fair to bring you one when Joe can\u2019t have another. \u00a0I, on the other hand\u2026\u201d Adam smirked and headed toward the kitchen. \u00a0Hoss frowned, and Little Joe stuck his tongue out at Adam\u2019s retreating back, slumping down into the comfort of his brother\u2019s favorite chair.<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing heard Adam\u2019s boots and turned to watch him enter and walk directly to the table that held the night\u2019s desert. \u00a0He snorted. \u00a0\u201cOne!\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam lifted the largest doughnut from the platter. \u00a0\u201cNow, Hop Sing, you know you let Hoss have two.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cKnow he give one to little brother. \u00a0Each son have one before supper. No more. \u00a0If more than three missing, Hop Sing take rest down to bunkhouse.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam tugged his left ear. \u00a0\u201cFine. \u00a0One before supper.\u201d \u00a0He smiled at the cook. \u00a0\u201cSave me back a couple for a bedtime snack, please. \u00a0You know Hoss will clear the platter at dessert.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing snorted again and muttered in Chinese. \u00a0\u201cPlease, most honorable Hop Sing.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s expression was one he saved for his father and Hop Sing only.<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing muttered and pointed toward the door. \u00a0\u201cGo. \u00a0Go, or I not finish supper.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam gave the doughnuts, which really were a particular favorite of his, a longing look, bit into the one he held, and uttered an exclamation of satisfaction. \u00a0\u201cThe best, absolutely the best.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing pointed again but smiled as he turned back to his dinner preparations.<\/div>\n
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The next morning Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons greeted Hop Sing with a question: Are there any more of those doughnuts left in the kitchen, Hop Sing? \u00a0They all knew the cook often set back- even hid- portions of favorite items for later consumption and possible bribery.<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing rolled his eyes and shook his head. \u201cAll eaten even crumbs. \u00a0None even for venerable father when he return later.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing glared at each of them. \u00a0Two dozen!\u201d \u00a0He began muttering chastisement in Chinese. The last four doughnuts had disappeared during the night.<\/div>\n
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Glances flashed around the table; then three pairs of eyes became glued to their plates as Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe filled them with Hop Sing\u2019s flapjacks and fried ham.<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing returned to the kitchen. \u00a0Hoss gave his elder brother a sheepish look. \u00a0\u201cGuess we shoulda saved a couple for Pa.\u201d \u00a0The three brothers had shared the last four doughnuts after a late-night raid of the kitchen.<\/div>\n
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\u201cPa will not miss what we do not mention. \u00a0You just feel guilty because you ate the most.\u201d \u00a0Adam had decided years ago not to play fair when it came to Hop Sing\u2019s custard-filled doughnuts. \u00a0After all, he had missed out on four years of them while at college.<\/div>\n
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\u201cSo, ya was keeping count!\u201d \u00a0Hoss\u2019s guilt made him snappish.<\/div>\n
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\u201cI had the least. \u00a0You two could have eaten as many as me and still left some for Pa.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe absolved himself of any guilt.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhat\u2019s done is done, and what\u2019s eaten is gone. \u00a0Endeavour, brothers, to do better next time. \u00a0Besides, Pa missing out may motivate Hop Sing to make another batch sooner rather than later.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s declaration lightened the mood at the table.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah.\u201d \u00a0Hoss smiled and tucked into his breakfast.<\/div>\n
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\u201cThe sooner the better.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe smiled and started to eat.<\/div>\n
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As Adam finished his second cup of coffee, he began to give orders for the day. \u00a0\u201cHoss\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI know. \u00a0Fifty beeves need to be in the holding pens by nightfall.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cRight. \u00a0Take Mike and Dusty. \u00a0Start in Bleecher\u2019s Meadow. \u00a0Now, Little Joe, when your chores are finished you need to see that the tack room\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cAdam!\u201d \u00a0His brother\u2019s name came out of Little Joe\u2019s mouth as more of wail than a word. \u201cI was gonna go\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam gave his little brother a stern look, cutting off his whining pronouncement. \u201cBut now you will put the tack room in order and lay out anything needing cleaning or repair.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThat will take the rest of the day!\u201d \u00a0Another wail was followed by the thrusting out of Joe\u2019s lower lip.<\/div>\n
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\u201cOnly because you have failed to keep it tidy and have put off a needed chore the entire time Pa has been gone.\u201d \u00a0Adam stood. \u00a0\u201cI have business at the mill, so I\u2019ll see you both at supper. \u00a0I\u2019ll let Hop Sing know it needs to be a late one.\u201d He set his napkin on his plate and headed toward the kitchen.<\/div>\n
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\u201cGuess I better get at it too.\u201d \u00a0Hoss grabbed the last muffin and ate it on the way to collect his lunch. \u00a0Hop Sing\u2019s lunches beat Cooky\u2019s by yards.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe slumped, kicked the table leg, and muttered. \u00a0\u201cA hard keeper and a bossy boots!\u201d \u00a0He sighed, kicked the table again and then departed. \u00a0He finished his regular chores perfunctorily, and then opened the door to the tack room, looked in, closed the door, and headed toward the kitchen. \u00a0He met Hop Sing coming out of the back door. \u201cLunch on kitchen table; eat when hungry. \u00a0I go town get supplies needed that foolish Dan forget. \u00a0Stir pots on stove now and then.\u201d \u00a0He gave the boy a stern look. \u00a0No let burn; no let fire go out.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2019m gonna be in the tack room. \u00a0I can\u2019t watch nothing in the kitchen.\u201d Litle Joe\u2019s tone was on the edge of insolent.<\/div>\n
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\u201cMister Adam say you be in tack room?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2019ve got to get it straight before Pa comes home.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe had changed his tone to aggrieved.<\/div>\n
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\u201cFine, but then all Cartwrights have cold supper.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing returned to his kitchen, doused the stove fire, stored the filled pots, and left muttering \u201cI go back China.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe watched the wagon depart, made a decision, went to the kitchen, and wrapped his lunch in a napkin. He left on his horse ten minutes later. \u00a0He could meet Mitch, fish for two hours, and still make it back to the ranch to give the tack room a lick and a promise before anyone else returned. \u00a0He was sure he could come up with a reason little had been accomplished there if he put his mind to it. \u00a0Besides, Adam would think that he had worked slowly because he was sulking and that the lack of accomplishment was a silent protest. Thankfully, elder brother did not give out swats for just being slow.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe slipped into the back yard near the kitchen door and sighed. \u00a0Three-fourths of the way home his horse had picked up a stone and bruised his hoof pad which would have been an acceptable excuse for being so late if he had any excuse for being on a horse and away from the house in the first place. Unfortunately, he did not. \u00a0In younger years he had used every imaginative excuse including being taken away by pirates, Indians, kidnappers, and thieves to explain an absence against orders. None of those excuses had saved him. \u00a0He sighed again. \u00a0Adam never believed any excuse Little Joe gave; Joe doubted Adam would believe any excuse from him even if it was the actual truth. \u00a0He sighed again and looked around the yard. \u00a0Perhaps his elder brother had been delayed at the mill.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe spotted the wagon first. \u00a0The draft horses were still harnessed to the wagon and stood pawing the ground in equine frustration which meant they had been standing there a significant amount of time. This was the first sign of something being amiss. Little Joe walked over to them and noticed that the wagon had not been unloaded. \u00a0This was the second sign. \u00a0Joe hurried to the front yard and spotted both his brothers\u2019 horses standing there still saddled. \u00a0This third sign set him running back and into the kitchen shouting. \u00a0\u201cHop Sing! \u00a0Hoss! \u00a0Adam!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cLittle Joe!\u201d \u00a0His name came at him in three voices. \u00a0He stopped short and surveyed the brightly lit room. \u00a0Adam and Hoss stood on either side of Hop Sing who was seated at the table holding a cloth to his head. \u00a0Hoss immediately stepped to his little brother\u2019s side.<\/div>\n
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\u201cJoe, boy, you okay?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cIs he?\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s voice had Hoss doing a hands-on search for injuries.<\/div>\n
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\u201cDon\u2019t see nothing wrong.\u201d \u00a0 Hoss sighed in relief.<\/div>\n
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\u201cThank the Lord!\u201d \u00a0Relief was present in Adam\u2019s voice also.<\/div>\n
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Hop Sing spoke softly. \u201cBefore leave, pray always ancestors keep boy safe.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWell, thank you to your ancestors also.\u201d \u00a0There was not a trace of sarcasm in the statement. Adam turned toward Little Joe and spoke in a less solicitous voice. \u00a0\u201cWhere have you been, Joseph?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2026 what happened? \u00a0Is Hop Sing hurt?\u201d \u00a0Little Joe ran possible answers to Adam\u2019s question through his mind while waiting for the answer to his own.<\/div>\n
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\u201cJoseph! \u00a0I asked where you have been.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2026 if he\u2019s hurt\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam\u2019s jaw stiffened. \u00a0\u201cLet\u2019s try this another way. \u00a0Are you just now coming in from the tack room?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cUm, not directly.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhen was the last time you were in the tack room?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cAdam, if Hop Sing\u2019s hurt this ain\u2019t the time to be talking about the tack room.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cJoseph!\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s bellow was followed by a moan from Hop Sing.<\/div>\n
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Hoss spoke softly. \u00a0\u201cHop Sing don\u2019t need to hear no shouting. \u00a0Loud noises don\u2019t help concussions.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam sighed. \u00a0\u201cMy apologies, Hop Sing. \u00a0Joe, come here to me.\u201d Little Joe dragged himself to stand before his brother just out of reach of Adam\u2019s long arms. \u00a0\u201cJust tell me where you have been. \u00a0No lies. \u00a0No evasions.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Joe looked into his brother\u2019s eyes and shuddered. \u00a0\u201cI went fishing. \u00a0Just for a bit. \u00a0I was gonna be back in time to do the tack room.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s left eyebrow rose. \u00a0\u201cWell, some of\u2026\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s eyebrow rose higher. \u201cOkay, I was going to start on the tack room, but you can\u2019t ride a horse with a stone bruise, so I\u2019m late.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cSo, you\u2019re late.\u201d \u00a0Adam shook his head. \u00a0\u201cYou think that\u2026\u201d Adam\u2019s volume was rising again.<\/div>\n
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Hoss stepped closer. \u00a0\u201cAdam, there\u2019s things need tending.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam released a slow breath and stared down at Joe. \u00a0\u201cYes, there are, but be assured, little boy, that eventually I shall get to tending to you.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Suddenly the door opened, and Ben Cartwright strode into the room. \u00a0\u201cWhat in blazes is going on!\u201d \u00a0It was a bellowed demand which immediately began explanations.<\/div>\n
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Adam, as usual, became spokesman. \u00a0\u201cWell, to put it bluntly, Pa, it appears we have been robbed.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNot looks. \u00a0House robbed!\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing\u2019s exclamation ended in a groan, and he buried his head in his arms on the table.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou\u2019re hurt.\u201d \u00a0Ben\u2019s concern turned immediately to his friend.<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe\u2019s got a concussion. \u00a0Don\u2019t look like a real bad one, but we maybe ought to\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss had already volunteered to go for the doctor.<\/div>\n
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A moaned no came from Hop Sing.<\/div>\n
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\u201cDr. Paul\u2019s always saying Hop Sing knows as much about concussions as he does.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe understood wanting to avoid doctors, and it was true that the Cartwright\u2019s and Hop Sing were well-acquainted with concussions.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe\u2019ll keep an eye on him before we decide whether or not to send for Paul.\u201d \u00a0Ben turned back to Adam for further explanation.<\/div>\n
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Adam delivered a concise story quickly. \u00a0\u201cI was at the mill, Hoss was collecting cattle, Little Joe was, um, elsewhere, and Hop Sing went into town for some needed supplies. \u00a0When he returned, the door was open, the house ransacked, and someone came up from behind and hit him over the head resulting in unconsciousness and his concussion. \u00a0He came around shortly before Hoss and I arrived only minutes apart. \u00a0We haven\u2019t had time to assess the extent\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cMuch taken. \u00a0Thief find doughnuts. \u00a0All gone.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cDoughnuts?\u201d \u00a0Ben began to wonder if Hop Sing\u2019s concussion was more serious than they had believed.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou said at breakfast there weren\u2019t no more doughnuts.\u201d \u00a0Hoss\u2019s statement carried a question.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo doughnuts then. \u00a0Know boys. \u00a0Hide dough and custard. \u00a0Fix doughnuts for Mr. Ben before leave. \u00a0Hide so boys no find.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing was wise enough not to shake his head and simply slumped against the table.<\/div>\n
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Ben did shake his head before giving out orders. \u00a0\u201cHoss, help Hop Sing to his bed. \u00a0Then bring in some ice before you see to the animals and unload the wagon. \u00a0Adam, help Hoss with the animals then come help me. \u00a0I\u2019ll start an assessment of what has been taken. \u00a0It\u2019s too late to do more than that tonight. Little Joe\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYes, Pa?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou have perhaps the most important job of all. \u00a0You are to watch over Hop Sing. \u00a0You know the signs to look out for?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe looked affronted at the question. \u00a0\u201cOf course, I do. \u00a0I\u2019ve known \u2018em since I was five.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Ben exchanged a slight smile with his elder sons. Little Joe\u2019s statement was almost literally true. \u00a0\u201cGood then. \u00a0We\u2019ll leave him in your hands.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u2018Supper.\u201d \u00a0The weak exclamation from Hop Sing reminded Ben that none of them would have eaten yet.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe\u2019ll see to supper. \u00a0It will be fine.\u201d \u00a0Ben reassured the cook as his sons rolled their eyes behind his back. The fact that Hop Sing made no further protest was a sign of how ill he felt.<\/div>\n
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\u201cCome on, Hop Sing. I can\u2026\u201d \u00a0Hoss reached toward the smaller man.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo carry!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cFine but ya lean on me and I\u2019ll see ya don\u2019t walk into any walls.\u201d Hoss\u2019s arm went around the cook\u2019s waist and gently guided him away. \u00a0Little Joe followed in their wake.<\/div>\n
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Upon entering his room, Hop Sing let out sharp wail.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhat? \u00a0What\u2019s wrong?\u201d \u00a0Hoss\u2019s hold tightened.<\/div>\n
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\u201cHop Sing! \u00a0What? \u00a0Hoss help him!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s previous control shredded.<\/div>\n
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Hoss picked up Hop Sing and gently set him on his bed. \u00a0\u201cWe better\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo!\u201d Hop Sing managed a note of authority. \u00a0He pointed toward a broken box on the floor. \u201cMoney gone. \u00a0Thief take money for when I go back China.\u201d \u00a0He slumped against the pillows.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNow, don\u2019t you give that no never mind.\u201d \u00a0Hoss soothed softly.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNever mind three hundred dollars!\u201d \u00a0This time Hop Sing forgot to keep his head still, and his Chinese mutters were lost to groans.<\/div>\n
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\u201cDon\u2019t worry. \u00a0We\u2019ll see to things. \u00a0Just rest now.\u201d \u00a0Hoss\u2019s voice remained soft, and his hands gently settled Hop Sing more comfortably on the bed.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe\u2019s eyes had grown wide at the amount, but he leaned over and spoke as softly as Hoss. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re more important than any old money, Hop Sing. \u00a0Just you settle and get better.\u201d<\/div>\n
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After Hoss left, Little Joe filled the role of nurse quite competently. Hop Sing relaxed into a light sleep, and Joe quietly straightened any sign of disturbance caused by the thief. \u00a0The room had been Hop Sing\u2019s for as long as Little Joe could remember, and all the Cartwrights respected his privacy. \u00a0In fact, Little Joe had entered Hop Sing\u2019s room surreptitiously far fewer times than Adam\u2019s or even his pa\u2019s. \u00a0Joe knew less about the room and its belongings than any other place in or around the ranch house, so he could not be sure if anything besides Hop Sing\u2019s three hundred dollars was missing. \u00a0Little Joe sat down next to the bed and studied the sleeping face before him. \u00a0Hop Sing\u2019s statement that the money was for \u201cwhen I go back China\u201d echoed in his head.<\/div>\n
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He heard the door open and watched Adam walk over to the bed.<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe\u2019s sleeping.\u201d \u00a0Joe\u2019s faint whisper admonished his brother not to disturb Hop Sing in any way.<\/div>\n
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Adam replied just as softly. \u00a0\u201cIs there any sign that\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNah. \u00a0I woke him and checked and he was thinking straight. \u00a0Checked his eyes too. \u00a0He went back to sleep about five minutes ago.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam\u2019s eyes had assessed the situation, and he patted his little brother\u2019s shoulder. \u00a0\u201cGood, good. \u00a0You can come eat some supper then.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI can eat in\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cCome eat. \u00a0He\u2019ll be fine, and you can check him out when you return.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBut\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe\u2019ll leave the door open some, so we\u2019ll hear if he calls.\u201d \u00a0 Adam\u2019s hand tugged Joe\u2019s arm and pulled him to his feet.<\/div>\n
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\u201cOkay.\u201d Joe followed his brother into the small hall. \u00a0He stopped and looked Adam in the eye. \u00a0\u201cHe\u2019ll be okay, won\u2019t he?\u201d<\/div>\n
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It was a request for reassurance, and Adam used his most confident tone. \u00a0\u201cI truly think he will. Nothing indicates that he won\u2019t be back to normal in a few days. \u00a0He just needs rest and care, and we\u2019ll see he gets plenty of both.\u201d \u00a0Adam smiled. \u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s only fair after all the care he\u2019s given us.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah. \u00a0Uh, do you think my not being here, not getting here faster\u2026\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s voice faded.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think any of that has a bearing on Hop Sing\u2019s health, and I\u2019m sure he\u2019s glad you weren\u2019t here or anywhere near that thief. \u00a0Pa, Hoss, and I are.\u201d \u00a0Admonishment entered Adam\u2019s voice. \u00a0\u201cIt was still wrong what you did. \u00a0Such disobedience and deceit are always wrong.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI know.\u201d \u00a0Joe looked up at his brother through lowered lashes. \u00a0\u201cYou didn\u2019t tell Pa.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cDidn\u2019t I tell you that I\u2019d be tending to you?\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s arms crossed his chest. \u201cI shall you know.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe\u2019s eyes dropped to the floor, and his stomach dropped with it. \u201cI know.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam\u2019s arms fell to his sides. \u00a0\u201cFor now, we best not make ourselves any later to table than we are.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe walked into the kitchen and saw that the Cartwrights were indeed having a cold supper. \u00a0A platter of sandwiches and the contents of about a dozen jars of Hop Sing\u2019s pickled and preserved produce filled the middle of the table. \u00a0Actually, Little Joe was glad that his father and brothers had not attempted anything more ambitious.<\/div>\n
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Everyone sat down at the kitchen table, said grace, and began filing their plates with individual favorites.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe could eat quite well for a month just from Hop Sing\u2019s pantry.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s observation elicited three nods.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWell, we could if Hoss took a trip for a week or two.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe smirked at Hoss\u2019s snort.<\/div>\n
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Ben sent a look to his sons that prevented escalation of the teasing and steered the conversation to serious matters. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ll go in and speak to Roy Coffee in the morning. \u00a0Adam, you and Hoss can check for any sign of which direction the thief may have gone. \u00a0Maybe, we can pick up his trail.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBy following the doughnut crumbs perhaps?\u201d \u00a0The corner of Adams lips curled upward only slightly.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNah, the birds ain\u2019t gonna have left anything that fine lying around.\u201d \u00a0Hoss frowned. \u00a0The thief taking Hop Sing\u2019s doughnuts was a true affront to decency.<\/div>\n
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\u201cIs there lots missing, Pa?\u201d \u00a0Little Joe reached for a second helping of pickled beets.<\/div>\n
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\u201cActually, yes. \u00a0Quite an assortment, but the safe did its job, and the only money gone is Hop Sing\u2019s.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThat\u2019s a blessing. \u00a0There was over two thousand dollars in the safe.\u201d \u00a0Adam frowned at what could have been a major financial loss.<\/div>\n
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\u201cAnd a stack of bearer bonds.\u201d \u00a0Ben shook his head. \u00a0\u201cThough I\u2019ve a feeling this thief might not have recognized their value if he had found them.\u201d \u00a0Ben wiped his mouth and turned to pick up a paper from the sideboard. \u00a0\u201cI want each of you to look over the list and see if you can spot anything else that may be may be missing. \u00a0Ben passed the paper to Adam who scanned it for a second time. \u00a0He shook his head and handed it to Hoss. \u00a0Hoss read it more slowly. \u00a0\u201cI can\u2019t think of nothing else.\u201d \u00a0He handed the paper to Joe with no expectation that he would be adding to the list.<\/div>\n
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Joe read down the sheet carefully, noting the variety of missing items both valuable and not. \u00a0\u201cHop Sing\u2019s cleaver ain\u2019t here.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Ben\u2019s eyes swept the kitchen. \u00a0\u201cNo, it\u2019s not. \u00a0Why would a thief take a cleaver?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss shrugged, and Adam rubbed his chin. \u201cIt could be useful. \u00a0Hop Sing keeps it sharper than a razor. \u00a0It could even be used as a weapon.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThe carving knife would make more sense unless\u2026 \u00a0Hoss pushed away the thought that the thief may have grabbed the cleaver because it was at hand when Hop Sing returned home.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe\u2019s next remark veered attention from the missing cleaver. \u00a0\u201cA saddlebag? \u00a0I thought he only took things from the house.\u201d Hoss cleared his throat and shifted in his chair. \u00a0Joe\u2019s brow furrowed. \u201cWhose saddlebag was in the house?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI believe the cat is about to slip out of the bag. \u00a0Might as well tell him, Hoss.\u201d \u00a0Adam gave Hoss an it-is-what-it is look.<\/div>\n
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Hoss sighed. \u00a0\u201cWell, it was meant to be yourn.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cMine?\u2019<\/div>\n
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\u201cYours, Joseph.\u201d \u00a0Ben had already heard an explanation about the saddlebag.<\/div>\n
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\u201cSee, I saw a real fine saddlebag down in Sacramento last time me and Adam was there. \u00a0High-quality leather- dark and butter soft- with some mighty fine hand tooling. \u00a0Right size for a young\u2019un, so I bought it for you, Joe, for your birthday.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe was silent for a moment and then gasped. \u00a0\u201cThe tooling was a mountain scene and then pine trees around the edges.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam\u2019s attention went completely to Little Joe. \u00a0\u201cHow did you know?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI saw it on the way home.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cExplain.\u201d \u00a0Ben\u2019s command launched Little Joe immediately into an explanation.<\/div>\n
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\u201cIt was just after I had to start walking. \u00a0I heard a horse coming and\u2026\u201d \u00a0Joe paused, looked at Adam and then his pa, swallowed and continued. \u00a0\u201cI thought\u2026 well, if it was maybe Adam, or Hoss, or even a hand that might mention seeing me\u2026 \u00a0well, I slipped into some bushes. \u00a0A rider came down to the creek right near me and went to filling his canteen. \u00a0Adam\u2019s always telling me I should be more cautious about strangers when I\u2019m alone, and nobody knew where I\u2026, well, anyway I stayed still and just watched until he rode away. \u00a0I noticed his saddlebag though, I guess, \u2018cause it was real fine and none of his other traps were. \u00a0It looked stuffed too.\u201d \u00a0Joe\u2019s eyes swept around the table. \u00a0\u201cI kinda forgot about the whole thing after I came home.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNot surprising, what with worrying about Hop Sing.\u201d \u00a0Hoss was quick to excuse any lapse on his little brother\u2019s part.<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo one is faulting you, Little Joe, but did you get a good look at his face?\u201d \u00a0Adam leaned closer.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah. \u00a0I ain\u2019t never seen him before; I\u2019m sure I ain\u2019t.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Ben joined the conversation. \u00a0\u201cWould you recognize him again?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah, Pa, I\u2019m sure I would.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou saw which way he rode off?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cAcross the meadow northeast toward Big Bear Cut. \u00a0That helps, don\u2019t it?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cIt surely does, Joe boy; it surely does. \u00a0Adam, there\u2019s a line shack that direction near Percy\u2019s pond. \u00a0Do ya think maybe\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cIt\u2019s possible. \u00a0It\u2019s secluded enough that he might risk spending the night.\u201d \u00a0Adam turned toward his father. \u00a0\u201cPa, I think it would be worth a try to take a few men and arrive by daylight. \u00a0It\u2019s possible we could have him in hand without much fuss. \u00a0If not, we can check for a trail starting around there.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cIt would definitely be worth a try. \u00a0A couple of other men could go to the creek at first light. \u00a0Joe can give them some more specifics about exactly where he saw him. They can start searching from there. \u00a0Then if you find nothing, you can join up with them, and not much time will have been wasted. \u00a0I\u2019ll go up to the bunkhouse and get things arranged. \u00a0You and Hoss go on and try to get some sleep. \u00a0You\u2019ll have to leave in a few hours to be there by daylight.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cTrue. \u00a0We\u2019ll just pick up things here and then head up.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cPa, they\u2019ll need me to identify him.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe was sitting on the edge of his seat.<\/div>\n
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Ben looked at his twelve-year-old. \u00a0\u201cAnyone they find should have the evidence with him. \u00a0If there is any question as to whether someone is the man you saw, you can identify him at the sheriff\u2019s office.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBut, Pa.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Ben sent a stern look directly at Little Joe. \u00a0\u201cYou will continue with the job you have been assigned. \u00a0Am I clear?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam opened the door and looked into the dimly lit room. \u00a0Little Joe hopped up from the pallet where he had been lying and darted to his brother.<\/div>\n
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\u201cHop Sing still doing well?\u201d \u00a0Adam kept his voice to a whisper.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYeah. \u00a0I\u2019m checking him regular.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou should catch a little sleep then.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2019ll get some later. \u00a0You and Hoss leaving now?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYes.\u201d \u00a0Adam studied his brother\u2019s face. \u201cYou know you can\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI ain\u2019t planning on sneaking off after ya. \u00a0I ain\u2019t a complete fool, and I got a job to do.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam smiled. \u201cThat you do!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cAdam, you all will be careful, won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhen have you known me to do a job carelessly?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe shrugged. \u00a0\u201cNever, I guess.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam tousled Joe\u2019s hair. \u00a0\u201cPa taught me better before you were born, little brother.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe gave a weak smile and followed Adam out to the yard. \u00a0His pa came to stand beside him as they watched the unofficial posse depart.<\/div>\n
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\u201cThat man by the creek. \u00a0He didn\u2019t look like no bad desperado.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Ben knew his youngest was seeking reassurance. \u00a0\u201cThey\u2019ll be fine; I\u2019m sure.\u201d \u00a0He put his arm around the boy. \u00a0You go back and try to get some sleep.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cAre you going to head into town now?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNot for a bit. \u00a0Barney\u2019s going to take care of the barn chores, so you just keep tending Hop Sing.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cOkay. \u00a0Uh, Pa, uh\u2026\u201d \u00a0Little Joe chewed the corner of his lip.<\/div>\n
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\u201cDid I deduce that you disobeyed your brother when you went off yesterday?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWell, yeah.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI take it Adam has yet to tend to the matter.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe said he was going to tend to me after things settled.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThen I\u2019ll leave it in his hands. \u00a0Go on now.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYes, sir.\u201d \u00a0It flashed across Little Joe\u2019s mind that a slight injury to his elder brother\u2019s right arm might not be so bad.<\/div>\n
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\u201cI think it\u2019s right.\u201d Little Joe carefully handed the cup to Hop Sing who was sitting up against a pile of pillows.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing had taught Little Joe how to properly brew tea years before and had managed to provide him with instructions as to what ingredients to add to combat nausea.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou follow instructions. Is right.\u201d Taking sip, Hop Sing smiled.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou\u2019re doing better.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe relaxed.<\/div>\n
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\u201cHop Sing be fine. \u00a0Tomorrow\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo!\u201d Little Joe drew in a deep breath at his own audacity but continued. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019ve got to stay in bed until you\u2019re really well. \u00a0Pa\u2019s gonna bring back Hop Shu to help out until you are.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing had trained his cousin in Cartwright care for the rare times when he was incapacitated. \u00a0Hop Sing snorted. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019ve got to let us take care of you, please.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou taking good care.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing sipped the rest of the tea and handed the empty cup to the boy. \u201cBoy worry too much. \u00a0Hit on head little thing.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing managed a shrug without moaning.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe declined to argue. \u00a0He chewed his lip. \u201cI\u2019m worried about something else too.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhat worry?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cSomething you said.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe sighed. \u201cYou said the money was for when you went home to China, and you saved three hundred dollars.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cSave yes; have now no.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBut Adam and Hoss are getting it back for you.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing heard the surety of Joe\u2019s belief.<\/div>\n
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\u201cFather tell be careful?\u201d Little Joe nodded. \u00a0\u201cNo want money if get boys hurt.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Joe sighed. \u00a0\u201cI don\u2019t know if I want you to get it if they\u2019re not hurt.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhy no want Hop Sing have money?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI don\u2019t want you to go, Hop Sing, never!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s statement was vehement.<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou worry Hop Sing plan go? \u00a0Silly boy, no plan go.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBut you said \u2018when I go back China\u2019\u2026 you saved\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNot for plan to go. \u00a0For know could go.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe simply looked puzzled. \u00a0\u201cIf have no money for fare, no can go home for no reason. \u00a0Then have to stay; no choice. \u00a0Not free to go. Like prison. Have money means have choice. \u00a0Free to go. Stay because choose stay. Understand?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI think so. \u00a0It stands for your freedom. \u00a0Like when Adam talks about symbols and such.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYes, mean freedom not mean want to go.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe\u2019s smile lit his face. \u00a0\u201cOkay then! \u00a0Uh, Hop Sing, you know if you really did need money for anything even\u2026 well, Pa would give you what you needed.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cKnow.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing managed a full smile. \u00a0\u201cThat part reason no want to go.\u201d<\/div>\n
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The sound of horses entering the yard drew their attention. \u00a0Little Joe stood but paused.<\/div>\n
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\u201cGo. \u00a0Find out and come tell.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe ran into the yard. \u00a0He saw that his father and brothers had returned together, bringing Hop Shu and Doc Martin.<\/div>\n
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\u201cIs everything\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cEverything\u2019s fine!\u201d \u00a0Ben was quick to reassure his son.<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe was where we thought, weren\u2019t he, Adam? \u00a0Didn\u2019t have no trouble with him at all.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe\u2019s not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but he did have sense enough to know five-to-one was a losing bet.\u201d \u00a0Adam swung down and handed Sport\u2019s reins to Barney, who had come out of the barn to take care of the horses. \u00a0\u201cHe is currently residing in Roy\u2019s jail. \u00a0We brought everything he took back with us except Hop Sing\u2019s money- which is being held for evidence- and some food, including the doughnuts which he ate.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cDurn him!\u201d \u00a0Hoss\u2019s mutter was low in volume but full of resentment.<\/div>\n
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Hop Shu entered the conversation. \u00a0\u201cCousin doing well?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYea, he\u2019s getting better, I think.\u201d Joe turned to address the doctor, glad that they would have a real medical evaluation of Hop Sing\u2019s health. \u00a0\u201cBut, Doctor Paul, you\u2019re gonna have to be real firm and tell him he can\u2019t get up tomorrow. \u00a0He\u2019s as stubborn as the rest of us.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThen I best get to the sick room.\u201d \u00a0Paul Martin looked at Ben. \u00a0\u201cI can find my own way. \u00a0I\u2019ll speak to you before I leave.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hop Shu addressed Ben. \u00a0\u201cI go with doctor and see cousin. \u00a0Get instructions. \u00a0Then fix everyone good dinner.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThank you, Hop Shu.\u201d Ben slipped his arm around Little Joe. \u00a0\u201cHop Sing will be in good hands. \u00a0You can help put things away.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Together the Cartwrights entered their home and began putting recovered items into their proper places.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe looked at Hoss. \u00a0\u201cHoss, can I have my birthday present early? \u00a0I mean, well, since I\u2019ve seen it already. \u00a0It really is fine!\u201d<\/div>\n
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Hoss sighed. \u00a0\u201cI suppose, but it will be the first piece of tack you\u2019ll need to be cleaning. \u00a0We don\u2019t want the blood\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cBlood! \u00a0Who\u2019s hurt?\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s voice held a fearful wail.<\/div>\n
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Hoss had forgotten his little brother had yet to hear the whole story. \u00a0He gave his father a sheepish look. \u00a0\u201cHold on there, Short Shanks. \u00a0No need to get into a fret. \u00a0That Jasper Pruitt- that\u2019s the thief\u2019s name- well, he managed to slice his hand open on Hop Sing\u2019s cleaver. \u00a0That\u2019s why he was gonna hold up in the line shack for a couple of days.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cServe\u2019s him right.\u201d \u00a0Little Joe\u2019s judgmental tone gave his opinion of one Jasper Pruitt. \u201cHe hurt Hop Sing.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWell, he won\u2019t be hurting anyone else any time soon. \u00a0I\u2019d be surprised if he didn\u2019t plead guilty as soon as he goes before the judge.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHe probably will, Pa.\u201d \u00a0Adam added his agreement to his father\u2019s observation.<\/div>\n
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\u201cThen I won\u2019t get to testify?\u201d \u00a0Joe\u2019s disappointment was clear.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe\u2019ll have to see. \u00a0You may attend the trial either way.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/div>\n
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The Cartwrights all turned to watch the doctor enter the room. \u00a0Paul Martin smiled. \u201cI concur with your assessment. \u00a0Hop Sing should be back to normal in a few days. \u00a0I told him to rest for at least more three days. \u00a0See if you can manage to see that he does for at least two.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe will do whatever is necessary.\u201d \u00a0Ben\u2019s statement held a tone of surety.<\/div>\n
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\u201cCan I sit on him to keep him down? \u00a0I know we can\u2019t let Hoss, but I shouldn\u2019t hurt him.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cJoseph!\u201d \u00a0Ben\u2019s admonishment drowned Hoss\u2019s snort and the doctor\u2019s laughter.<\/div>\n
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After everyone, including Doctor Martin, had enjoyed Hop Shu\u2019s culinary efforts and some relaxed conversation, the doctor rose and announced his immediate departure.<\/div>\n
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Little Joe looked at his father. \u00a0\u201cPa, may I be excused?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Before Ben could answer, Adam cleared his throat. \u00a0\u201cI need to speak to you in my room, Joe.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cOh.\u201d Little Joe looked first at his father. \u00a0Ben nodded. Joe\u2019s chin dropped. \u201cOkay.\u201d \u00a0He trudged up the stairs, Adam following behind.<\/div>\n
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Adam closed his bedroom door and leaned against it, studying the boy standing in the middle of the room. \u00a0\u201cSit down.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe perched on the edge of the bed. \u00a0\u201cUm, Adam, umm, well, I just\u2026 I mean I know what I did was wrong, and really I\u2019m sorry; I am, but\u2026\u201d Little Joe looked up at Adam. \u00a0\u201cI\u2026I just really don\u2019t want a lickin\u2019.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI can\u2019t say I ever did.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe\u2019s eyes widened; it was not what he had expected his elder brother to say. \u00a0The statement also held none of the anger Joe had anticipated. \u00a0\u201cYou\u2019re not mad.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cNo, I\u2019m not, but this is not about me being mad. \u00a0It\u2019s never about me being angry.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI know. \u00a0I know you don\u2019t\u2026 you\u2019ve never just lost your temper, even when ya had good reason.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cYou\u2019re my little brother, Joseph. \u00a0I would never\u2026 just because I\u2019m older, stronger, I would never\u2026\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI know, but you know I\u2019m not only your baby brother, am just your brother too.\u201d \u00a0Joe sighed. \u201cAnd brothers, well, sometimes brothers, like you and Hoss, well, even when you\u2019re in charge, it\u2019s different between you and Hoss.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cHow?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cSometimes brothers can make, well, make a deal.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhat kind of deal?\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cLike maybe one where I give you something, and you don\u2019t give me a lickin\u2019.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThat sounds more like bribery to me.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s voice was still calm and even.<\/div>\n
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\u201cDeal, bribery, whatever.\u201d Little Joe gave a small shrug but still managed to maintain a degree of respect.<\/div>\n
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\u201cI have substantially more money than you, so with what would you bribe me?\u201d<\/div>\n
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Little Joe drew in a deep breath and let it out slowly before he smiled. \u00a0\u201cDoughnuts. \u00a0Hop Sing\u2019s powder-covered, custard-filled doughnuts.\u201d \u00a0Adam\u2019s left hand came up and tugged his right ear. \u00a0\u201cHe told me he was gonna make a big batch soon as he was feeling well. \u00a0Three dozen! \u00a0He said he\u2019d make three dozen. \u00a0My share would be nine. \u00a0I\u2019ll let ya have all nine if ya don\u2019t give me a lickin\u2019 for being disobedient and deceitful. You did say my being away from the robbery was a good thing.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cUm.\u201d \u00a0Adam rubbed the bridge of his nose.<\/div>\n
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\u201cI listened about being careful of strangers.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThat you did.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI\u2019ll get the tack room looking fine as the preacher\u2019s parlor.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cThat\u2019s a given.\u201d Little Joe held his breath. \u201cI\u2019ll collect, Joe. \u00a0Every last crumb.\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cI don\u2019t expect no less.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Adam held out is hand. \u201cDeal!\u201d<\/div>\n
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\u201cDeal!\u201d \u00a0Little Joe grinned. \u00a0I bet I can get Hoss to give me a couple of his. \u00a0Well, at least one.<\/div>\n
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The End<\/div>\n
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A\/N: Written for the 2026 Ponderosa Paddlewheel Poker Tournament. The words\/phrases dealt to me were:<\/div>\n
    \n
  • Cleaver<\/li>\n
  • Hard keeper (requires a lot of calories to stay healthy)<\/li>\n
  • Pawing (horse is frustrated)<\/li>\n
  • Saddlebag<\/li>\n
  • Thief<\/li>\n
  • \u201cI go back China\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

     <\/p>\n

    I also was dealt a JOKER and thus used all seven cards dealt.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Summary: Hop Sing\u2019s custard-filled doughnuts were prized by all whenever he made them. \u00a0Ben Cartwright\u2019s sons did not feel the need to play fair when it came to obtaining such culinary delights, and the thief simply stole them.
    \n\u00a0
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