***

Each month in our featured story post we shine a light on an older story.
THIS MONTH’S FEATURED STORY IS …

One Hot Summer Week

By bonanzagirl73

Summary: Joe and a ranch hand are on the way back from Placerville when something unforeseen happens.
Rating: PG Word count: 7700

by smp4ever

After the good luck wishes and waves goodbye, another cattle drive was on its way.  Adam, Hoss, and ten cowhands were herding fifteen hundred head of cattle to Sacramento. Joe, who was still recuperating from pneumonia, wasn’t going to be able to join his brothers this time around. As much as he loved the adventure of the drive, and enjoyed being with Hoss and Adam, Joe secretly couldn’t even imagine dealing with river crossings, storms, stampedes, and the like. The best image he could conjure up in his mind was of a deflated balloon to describe how he felt. Of course, Joe would never admit to it, but even with this realization, it didn’t prevent him from being annoyed that the drive had begun without him. Joe was already missing his brothers since they had moved into the bunkhouse when he first got sick. Adam and Hoss had to stay healthy since they were leading the cattle drive. Ben knew his nineteen year old son so well and was aware of his disappointment. However, given how gravely ill Joe had been, Ben remained firm in his decision to keep his son home. 

“Joe, for weeks you fought a raging fever, a forceful cough, chest pains. Shall I go on? Do you have any idea of how deathly ill you really were? You’re still not a hundred percent!” 

“I know I was half dead! It’s a good thing, too, otherwise, I never would have allowed the torture treatments you and Doc Martin made me endure!  What I’m trying to tell you is that I’m feeling better, so maybe in a few days I can join Adam and Hoss!”

Ben gave Joe an exasperated look!

“Joseph, the answer is no!”

Ben was not surprised to see Joe’s pouting face which he perfected as a toddler. It was still comical, but Ben was unwavering. The pneumonia had left Joe weak. He could barely walk, let alone set a horse.

Joe knew his Pa was right. He had already admitted to himself that he felt like a newborn calf, but for whatever the reason, Joe never liked being told no. He was nineteen, not a little kid!

After assisting Joe in cleaning up, and keeping him company while he ate a light breakfast, Ben now wanted him to rest. He felt Joe’s head and was relieved that his fever was down. In fact, Ben was almost certain his temperature was normal. However, he still insisted on Joe staying in bed since fevers tend to spike later in the day. More importantly, Paul Martin ordered it!  Another pout was produced, but Joe complied. Ben left the window open slightly to bring in fresh, outdoor air. He told Joe that Hop Sing would be upstairs in a few moments to tidy up. 

 Joe couldn’t wait to regain his strength so he could be independent again. How he longed for a cold beer, a game of poker with his friends, and Millie sitting on his lap at the Silver Dollar. Sadly, for now, all Joe could do was dream about it!

Joe settled back in bed, and Ben headed downstairs.

A minute later, there stood the loyal and caring Chinaman in Joe’s doorway.

“Hop Sing freshen room and make my Little Joe feel better!” 

He was so glad Joe was improving. Hop Sing had been very worried about Number Three Son. The only other time he was this troubled was when Little Joe had been beaten up by John C. Regan.

While cleaning up, Hop Sing explained that he’d be gone for a few days to care for his sick cousin in Virginia City. 

 “Not be concerned. Hop Sing prepare food for Mr.Ben and Little Joe that will suffice until I return! I even bake one of your favorite desserts, dried apple pie, to help you get well faster.  I not far away!

Meanwhile, downstairs in the alcove, Ben got started looking for an important paper he needed for his lawyer, Hiram.  He searched all the drawers in his desk plus two boxes of papers. It took a couple of hours to carefully comb through everything.  The third and final box was all that was left. Exhausted from being the one to care for Joe, since he needed Adam and Hoss to stay healthy for the cattle drive, and also from preparing for the drive, it wasn’t any wonder that Ben couldn’t think straight!  He took the last box, removed the papers, and started to sort through them. There it was, the illusive paper!  Ben was so excited he almost began a whoopin’ and a hollering, but controlled his urge since Joe probably had fallen asleep after Hop Sing left. As Ben was putting the documents back into the box, he noticed a note written in a child’s hand. Ben recognized it immediately. He got up and sat in his red, leather chair. He read the note and remembered how nine years ago his ten year old son planned a special birthday party.  Ben closed his eyes and began to reminisce.

********

Ben’s birthday was in about 4 weeks. Hoss had just left on a cattle drive. At sixteen, given his size and strength, he was more than capable of handling the job. Adam was in his fourth and final year of college. He wouldn’t be home until four months after Ben’s birthday. That left a ten year old Little Joe to develop a plan to celebrate his father’s special day. Paying Adam’s tuition left little money for any extras. They were barely able to purchase necessities. Most sacrifices Ben made involved himself. He would either do without or would make due. Joe noticed that his Pa had been admiring a fancy bridle for Buck that one of the Morman traders had brought by wagon to the trading post at Eagle Station. The bridle was hanging from a hook in the small wooden structure owned by Mr. Simon. Although Ben had been looking at it for quite awhile, he wouldn’t dare buy it for himself. The wheels in Joe’s head started turning. A plan was beginning to form.

The next day after school, Joe stopped by Mr. Davis’s ranch which was just outside of the settlement. Jim Davis and his wife Sarah had moved in a little over a year ago. They had taken over a deserted mill and were trying to build up a business. Jim and Sarah were hard workers. The mill took up the bulk of their day, leaving little time for much else to do. The Davises weren’t in a position yet to hire full-time help, so Joe got an idea as to how he could make some money to buy his Pa the fancy bridle he had been admiring. 

Joe rode up to the ranch. 

“Hey, Mr. Davis.”

“Hey yourself, Little Joe!” 

 “Gotta minute, Sir?”

“For you, I have two minutes! What’s on your mind?” 

“Well, Sir, I need to earn some money to buy a special gift for my Pa’s birthday. It’s in four weeks and both my brothers are away. I heard you talking to Pa at the tent after the church meetin’ last week and telling him there ain’t enough hours in the day for you to get everything done.”

Jim started to catch on as to where Joe was going with this conversation.

“So you see, Sir, I thought we could help each other out. I know I’m small for my age but I’m really strong. I can clean up your horses’ stalls, the barn, tack room, and whatever else you need me to do. If you’re able, I’d take a dollar a week.”

“Well, Little Joe, that’s very reasonable. 

What are you going to tell your Pa?” 

Looking a little sheepish, Joe said, “Um, I’ll have to tell Pa a little white lie! I’m gonna say that Miss Jones wants me to stay after school everyday for a few weeks helping her with some projects. That big, old abandoned house that’s been used for our school for the past couple of years always needs work done. Then on Pa’s birthday I’ll fess up. He won’t be angry when he finds out why I fibbed.”

“How about if your father runs into Miss Jones when he’s in the settlement?”

“Pa’s been sending Hop Sing for supplies at the trading post about once a week or so. That’s his job for the next few weeks until he joins Hoss and the cattle drivers on their way home. Pa’s too busy right now going up to the lumber camps  and working on bids for contracts. He told Hop Sing to take care of the business at Eagle Station.  Our cook likes to pull out after breakfast to handle those responsibilities, so there shouldn’t be any problems. Miss Jones don’t leave the school very often anyway. Ya see, she lives there, too!” 

Jim tried to hide a little smile thinking about how clever this youngest Cartwright was! 

“Just make sure you’re ready to tell your father what projects you’re doing for Miss Jones and why you’re coming home smelling like a barn! How about your own chores and your homework?” Are you sure you’ll be able to keep up with everything?” 

“I can do it, Mr. Davis!”

“Ok, Little Joe, it’s a deal!”

Jim and Joe shook on it.

“You can start tomorrow!”

“Thanks, Sir. See you tomorrow​. Bye!”

Jim waved as Joe rode away. He smiled broadly and shook his head in disbelief over this kid’s grit.  He also thought about how much Joe loved his Pa! 

Ben was a very lucky man!

*********

That night, after supper as Ben sat down in his favorite red chair Joe walked over and sat on the arm of the chair.  

OK, Joe. You’d better pull this off!

“Pa? Miss Jones asked if I could stay after school for the next few weeks to help her do some projects.”

“Joseph, tell me the truth! Are you in trouble, Young Man?” Ben asked seriously. 

Looking hurt, Joe said, “No Pa! I really think she asked me because she wants to hear about Adam. She gets all funny looking when she asks me when Adam is coming home! Her breathing is even weird! It’s like she’s panting!”

With that Ben grabbed his baby boy, pulled him down on his lap, and started tickling him!”

Trying to catch his breath all Joe could say was, “Pa, if you don’t stop, I’m gonna pee!”

Ben quickly released Joe who made a mad dash for the outhouse!  Ben had to chuckle!

When Joe returned, Ben told him he could help as long as he was able to keep up with his own chores and homework. 

Joe gave Ben a big hug and then scurried off to bed. He would need all the sleep he could get to do all his jobs.

 As Joe was falling off to sleep he thought, at least my description of Miss Jones’ reaction to Adam wasn’t a fib!

Day after day Joe worked really hard raking out the two horses’ stalls and filling them with clean hay. Sometimes he polished the saddles, fixed the gate, cleaned up and organized the tack room, and did other odd jobs in the barn or around the house. Joe never stayed longer than ninety minutes. He had to get home before his father so he could wash up after doing his own chores. Joe and Pa had supper together and would share their day’s activities. Of course Joe had to keep up with his little white lie about helping Miss Jones. Joe was very convincing. He told his Pa that he cleaned out the stove, chopped wood, polished the small wooden benches, and helped his teacher fix a couple of bookcases, jobs like that.

Ben asked, “So, has Miss Jones been looking starry-eyed and asking you more questions about Adam?”

“Oh Pa, I don’t want to talk about that yucky stuff!”

Honestly, Joe just didn’t want to have to add to his fibbing. 

Ben smirked and thought, You may not realize it now, My Little Man, but with your good looks, the girls are going to be chasing you down, and I don’t think you’re gonna be fighting too hard to run away!

After supper, Joe would move to the coffee table to begin his homework. Ben would plop himself into his favorite chair, smoke his pipe, and drink a cup of coffee. 

Hopefully, one day I’ll be able to afford brandy! Ben thought. 

The routine was the same every night. Joe did his homework and upon completion, Ben checked it. Joe fixed mistakes, if any, and then he’d hug his Pa goodnight and would start to run up the stairs. Ben would call Joe and remind him to use the outhouse before going up to bed. Joe would roll his eyes and give his father his best irritated look!  Once upstairs Joe would wash up, get into bed, and just about pass out!

This pattern continued for two more weeks. 

During this time period, Roy came out to the Ponderosa to speak with Ben and Joe. 

 “Howdy Ben, Joe!”

“Howdy, Sheriff!” said Joe. 

“What brings you out here, all the way from Genoa, Roy?

 Do you think Joe robbed a bank?” Ben said kiddingly as he looked at Joe.

Roy smiled, but then said, “This is pretty serious, Ben. Some of the traders from the settlement came to see me about some trouble they’ve been having, and asked for my help. I’ll be staying at the boarding house until the problem is resolved. 

So Ben, if you don’t mind, I’d like to ask Little Joe some questions.”

Ben shook his head in the affirmative.

Roy turned to Joe, “Son, do you know anything about a group of boys who have been causing trouble around the settlement?”

Joe had heard some boys boasting of pranks they had pulled off but nothing more than that.

He didn’t want to tattle on other kids so Joe told Roy, “Not really, Sheriff. Nothing more than what boys do!” 

This way it’s not a total lie, Joe thought. 

Before leaving, Roy said, “Little Joe, if you hear something, please tell your Pa or me. These kids are now vandalizing and robbing!” 

Joe sincerely looked shocked! He just thought several of his classmates were doing kid stuff, nothing as serious as robbing!

******

Finally, it was the day before Ben’s birthday. Joe was so excited. Jim had given Joe an extra dollar for doing such a great job. He was going to miss his little Hand. Joe said that maybe he could help one day a week until Jim was able to hire a permanent worker. Jim was sorry he couldn’t hire Joe!

Sarah surprised Joe by telling him she would bake a cake for Ben’s birthday tomorrow since Hop Sing had left to meet the cattle drive. 

Joe was thrilled. 

Jim let Joe leave early so he could get to the settlement to buy the fancy bridle that had been on display. Joe didn’t have much time. He had to get home before his Pa arrived.

Joe greeted Mr. Simon when he walked into the structure. The shopkeeper acknowledged Joe, then Mr. Simon disappeared and was nowhere to be found. 

Joe couldn’t waste another minute, so he wrote a note and folded the four dollars, the cost of the bridle, inside the note. He left it on the counter, took the fancy bridle, and headed home. 

Mr. Simon returned five minutes later carrying boxes that were stacked up in front of his face. He put the boxes down on the counter covering Joe’s note since he couldn’t see what he was doing.

Mr. Simon was beginning to unpack the contents of the top box and set the items up in his room.  Something seemed out of order! Horrified, he realized the ornamented bridle that had been hanging in a prominent place was now missing!

Hearing about what had been happening with other vendors in the settlement getting vandalized and robbed, by whom everyone believed was a gang of boys, Simon ran to find the sheriff.  Roy was speaking to one of the miners who had come to Eagle Station for supplies.  Simon spotted the sheriff and interrupted the conversation. 

“Sheriff, Sheriff, one of my bridles was stolen!  The last time I saw the ornate bridle was just before Little Joe Cartwright came into my shop. I had to go over to unload items from the Morman’s wagon that I had ordered.  When I returned, Little Joe and the bridle were both gone!”

Simon told Roy he had to go home and rest after he locked up.  He wouldn’t reopen until tomorrow afternoon. 

Roy shook his head in disbelief both because of Simon’s reaction to just being robbed, and also because Roy had known Joe since he was just a little tyke. 

Could Joe be a member of this menacing gang? 

As much as Roy didn’t want to believe what Mr. Simon told him, the evidence seemed to be pretty strong. 

Ben’s not going to like hearing this news. 

*******

Joe got home before his Pa and ran up to his room to hide the bridle. Joe almost couldn’t wait until tomorrow to surprise his father. He was so proud of himself. 

As Joe started to head toward the barn to do his chores, Ben came riding in. 

“Hey Pa!”

“Hi Son!”

“I’ll take care of your horse, Pa!”

“Thanks Little Joe. I’m dog tired! I’ll go wash up and get the stew heated up that Hop Sing left for us.”

Joe took care of Buck and told him, “You’re gonna get a real nice surprise tomorrow from Pa. All of our horses are going to be real jealous of you, Buck!”

Chores all done, Joe headed back to the house and washed up. The stew smelled so good. He and his father enjoyed supper and each other’s company. Joe told Ben Miss Jones’ projects were done. Ben was grateful because his son was looking very tired lately. They both went to bed early! 

The next morning, Joe never let on that he knew it was his father’s birthday. Although a little disappointed, Ben didn’t say a word about it.

 After breakfast, Joe grabbed his books, gave his Pa an extra big hug, and yelled goodbye as he rode away. Ben smiled thinking that Joe was such an affectionate son. He knew one day that would change, but for now he would enjoy Joe being his very tactile child.

*******

The school day dragged on.  However, since it was Friday, Miss Jones released the class early. Joe couldn’t wait to get home and start setting up everything for his father’s birthday surprise. Ben wouldn’t be home until supper so Joe knew he had time. 

Since it was his birthday, Ben decided to give himself a present and quit working a couple of hours early. He figured he’d surprise Joe and pick him up after school. Then they’d go over to Mrs. Malone’s boarding house for dinner. 

As it turned out, Ben was the one who was surprised when he walked into the big house and only Miss Jones was there. 

She looked up to greet Ben.

“Hello, Mr. Cartwright. Guess you’re looking for Little Joseph. I released the class early since it’s Friday, and I have a good deal of paperwork to do.”

“I hope Little Joe was more of a help than a hindrance to you,” Ben said jokingly.

Miss Jones looked completely baffled. 

“What do you mean, Mr. Cartwright?”

“You know, helping you after school for the past four weeks with your projects.”

“Mr. Cartwright, I can assure you, Little Joseph has not been staying after school and I haven’t had any special projects.”

Now it was Ben’s turn to look confused. He bid Miss Jones goodbye and was about to head home to talk with his little scamp and get an explanation when Roy rode up.  Roy had planned to speak with Miss Jones again to see if she had any additional information about the group of boys suspected of wreaking havoc.  

Seeing Ben, saved Roy a trip out to the Ponderosa. He explained to his friend what had happened late yesterday afternoon at Mr. Simon’s place. Now Ben wasn’t just confused, he was angry!

“Ben, is it possible that Little Joe could be running around with this gang?”

“Roy, I would have vehemently denied it up until now. I just found out he’s been lying to me. I’ll get to the bottom of this and Little Joe’s bottom won’t forget it!”

******

Joe was so happy. He just finished writing his father a birthday note. It was so loving and heartfelt.

Dear Pa,

You are my hero!

I admire you and want to be just like you. 

But I’m still a kid, so sometimes it doesn’t work out!

Since Adam and Hoss aren’t home for your birthday I wanted to try to make it extra special for you. 

Happy Birthday!

I love you, Papa

Your loving son, 

Little Joe

Sarah had stopped over earlier with the cake, and set the table so beautifully. She even brought flowers and candles. Sarah surprised Joe by making homemade biscuits and a chicken dinner that just needed to be reheated. Joe was so grateful since he was only going to heat up beans for supper. The chicken dinner was much better! Joe couldn’t thank Sarah enough. Jim and Sarah had really taken to Little Joe. He was so charming and adorable. Sarah wanted to make this night extra special for Little Joe and his father. 

With everything set up, Joe went upstairs to change into his good shirt and string tie. He wrapped the fancy bridle in a small blanket and headed downstairs.

Joe had made a Happy Birthday sign and attached it to the front door. The party was ready to begin. 

About five minutes later Ben came through the front door. Joe was grinning from ear to ear. That is until he got a good look at his father’s face. Joe’s smile quickly disappeared. 

Ben bellowed,  “You lied to me!  What else have you been doing? Seeing the sign on the door I see you know it’s my birthday!  Joseph, I want you to know you’ve made this the worst birthday I’ve ever had!”

Ben saw the blanket and took out its contents!

 “Oh, the fancy bridle that’s missing from Mr. Simon’s building! So you did steal it!”

Ben stared at Joe and said, “I am so ashamed of you, more ashamed than I’ve ever been of anyone in my life!”

Joe stood in front of his father shaking and in shock. He fought to keep his tears from falling! Joe didn’t want to add to the disgust his father felt for him right now by letting Ben see him cry! He couldn’t believe how harshly his father was speaking to him. 

 How could Pa accuse me of stealing? I left the money with the note right on the counter. 

Little Joe was so hurt and confused.

Joe tried to explain, but his father dismissed him. 

The final insult was his father saying, “Get out of my sight. I can’t even stand to look at you right now! I’ll deal with you later!”

Joe ran up the stairs feeling completely crushed. He threw himself across his bed and let the tears flow. He lay there sobbing his little heart out, hearing his father’s words repeat in his head over and over. Joe was so distraught that he started feeling physically ill. 

Downstairs, Ben too, was miserable. 

“How could Little Joe lie and steal, and do it so innocently?” Ben said, shaking his head.

There was a knock on the door. Ben walked over to open it.  Roy and Mr. Simon stood before Ben looking very contrite. 

Roy couldn’t get the words out fast enough.

“Ben, I hope it’s not too late. Simon told me when he reopened his shop late this afternoon, he went to put away boxes he had left on the counter yesterday. Under the boxes was a note from Little Joe along with four dollars which was the cost of the bridle.”

“I’m so sorry I accused your son. I should have known better,” Simon confessed.

Ben was still confused. 

“Where did Joe get the money?”

Roy spoke up again.

“I met Jim and Sarah Davis in the settlement. They told me how Little Joe had this clever plan to work for them after school to earn money and buy you the bridle you had been admiring.”

Roy looked directly at his friend. 

“He’s some boy, Ben!”

“Again, please accept our apology and tell Joe the same,“ said Mr. Simon.

“By the way, Ben, Ammon and his brother Eden, a couple of the Morman traders, encountered three boys who attempted to rob their wagon. You know the brothers’ sizes. This little gang didn’t stand a chance. Ammon and Eden brought the boys to the settlement. These kids, as it turns out, are not from this area. They live a pretty good distance from Eagle Station. Thankfully, they’re not Little Joe’s classmates and friends.  I have them locked in a storage room and will deal with them tomorrow. They will be punished. Things should be peaceful around here now, and I’ll be heading back to Genoa shortly!” Roy said.

“Ben, again I am so sorry for the accusations I made against Joe. Please bring him to my place and I’ll give him some candy and apologize in person,” Mr. Simon said.

Ben thanked both men but didn’t invite them in. He just wanted to get upstairs to his son and explain the whole misunderstanding. 

As Ben neared Joe’s door he could hear retching and sobbing. Ben opened the door to see Joe desperately trying to clean up the mess. 

Stuttering and crying, Joe barely got out,  “I I I I’m  s s o    s orry.   I I I l I’ll   cl cl cl clean  it   u u u up!   Pl  pl  pl ease d d don’t be m m mad at me, P p a  Pa?” 

Joe’ s breathing was erratic. He was trying desperately to clean up the vomit.

Tears welled up in Ben‘s eyes at seeing the pitiful sight before him. He lifted Joe up and cradled him in his arms. He grabbed a towel, wet it, sat down on the chair, and wiped Joe’s face. Ben kept rocking Joe while stroking his hair with the dampened cloth and pushing his curls off his forehead.

Ben had not seen Joe this upset since his mother died a little over five years ago. When Joe was eight, he fell out of a tree and broke his arm.  Ben’s tough little boy gritted his teeth and only slightly whimpered while Doc Martin set the broken bone. Joe could handle physical pain, but he was a very sensitive child. Unkind and unfair words were much more painful for him than broken bones. Words like that caused a broken heart!

Ben repeatedly told Joe he was sorry.

“Son, please forgive me for not giving you a chance to explain. I’m very sorry I upset you so badly. I should have listened to you, Joe. I do believe in you, Son, even though I failed you tonight!”

Ben kept rocking Joe trying to calm him down. A combination of exhaustion from the past four weeks of working so hard, and then being incredibly hurt by his father’s unjustified words, left Joe feeling like his energy was sucked right out of him. Ben carried Joe downstairs, heated water, and poured it into the first floor tub. He helped Joe remove his offensive clothing, and gently assisted Joe in the bath water. While Joe soaked,  Ben told him how Roy explained the circumstances that led them to believe Joe had stolen the bridle. 

“Son, the sheriff and Mr. Simon both feel awful for accusing you. They wanted you to know they apologize. They said they should have known you would never do anything like that. Joseph, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive all of us!”

Then Ben said, “Do you want to tell me about the plan you came up with to celebrate my birthday and how you did all this work?” 

Joe, who was just sniveling a little bit now, looked up at his father with red rimmed eyes. The bath was finally calming Joe down. With just a few catches in his voice, Joe was able to tell Ben about the deal he made with Jim Davis. Joe didn’t leave out any details. Ben was so amazed at Joe’s ability to scheme and execute such an elaborate plan. He had to smile thinking about the potential his boy had!. He also was so touched by the reason Joe did it. Joe truly owned Ben’s heart. 

Considering everything Joe had been through this evening, Ben didn’t know if his child was up for the birthday celebration. 

 Ben asked Joe, “Son, do you still want to have the party and get dressed up, or do you just want  to put on your nightshirt and rest?”

Giving his father a smile that lit up his face, Joe said, “Get dressed up for the party!” 

Ben’s heart melted because Joe’s heart was so forgiving!

Ben went upstairs to get Joe an outfit to wear, while Joe dried off.  Upon entering the room, reality smacked Ben right in the face. His heart broke when he fully realized how unjustly and cruelly he had treated his sensitive, ten year old son. It hit him like a charging bull.

My poor, sweet boy. How could I have distrusted you and spoken to you the way I did? 

Ben didn’t want to leave Joe alone for too long so he gathered Joe’s clothing and a change for himself. Ben returned to the Great Room. While Joe dressed, Ben went into the kitchen to get himself washed up and changed.

Ben heated up the chicken dinner Sarah had made. He lit the candles on the table, then father and son sat down to share a delicious supper at a beautifully set table. Pa told stories about Adam and Hoss when they were little. Ben and Joe laughed and had a genuinely good time. Ben promised Joe they would do whatever he chose to do tomorrow. Joe loved spending special time with his father. They both cleared the dishes off the table and cleaned up. 

While Joe was still in the kitchen, Ben came into the Great Room and rewrapped his bridle. Then Joe walked into the room to join his father. 

Ben said, “Son, would you like to give me my birthday gift now?”

Joe flashed his beautiful smile at his father.

“Sure, Pa! Here, read your birthday note first.”

Ben read the note aloud. He both chuckled and also swiped at the tears in his eyes.

Joseph had such a tender and loving heart! 

Joe then handed Ben the gift. This time Ben opened the blanket and looked at the bridle through new eyes. The bridle had so much more meaning now. 

Ben looked at Joe, “Buck’s going to be the best looking horse in the whole territory! Thank you, Son!”

Joe hugged his Pa. Ben tenderly kissed his son on his head.

Ben said, “How about that cake now?”

Ben thanked Joe, again and again for making his birthday so special. 

He said, “It’s the best birthday I’ve ever had! You planned it so well and made me and Buck so happy!” 

That night, Ben got Joe settled in Hoss’s room since his room was still airing out. Father and Son said good night and went to bed happy and at peace. 

*******

Joe was standing in front of his father shaking him, “Pa, Pa!”

Ben finally opened his eyes. 

“Joe, what are you doing out of bed?” 

“Well after calling you ten times, and not getting an answer, I decided to come downstairs and find out what was going on.”

“I’m sorry, Son. I was looking for the paper I needed for Hiram. Mixed in with the legal documents was my birthday note from you when you were ten.”

“You kept that thing, Pa?”

“Of course, Joseph. It’s one of my most prized possessions! I sat down and read your note and started reminiscing about that time. I must have fallen asleep. 

Do you know, Joe, I still feel badly about how unfairly I treated you? I…”

Joe stopped his father and just touched his arm affectionately.

“Pa, remember, I forgave you nine years ago? There’s no need to bring it up again.”

Father and son smiled at each other.

“By the way, Joe, why were you calling me?”

“I needed more water.”

“Why don’t you get back into bed and I’ll get the water for your pitcher?”

“Since I’m up, why don’t we have some of that dried apple pie Hop Sing made before he left to visit his cousin?”

“How about supper before dessert, Joseph?”

Joe gave his father an annoyed look.

“Okay, Son, a small piece of pie, then back upstairs you go. I’ll heat up the soup and bring it up to you after you get back into bed.”

“Oh Pa, I’m developing bed sores from lying in bed, plus those four walls are closing in on me!”

“You are definitely getting better!” Ben said.

“How do you know?”

“You’re complaining more than usual!”

Joe started laughing, the laugh that made his face light up. 

Ben got up from his chair to feel Joe’s head. Thankfully, he felt cool.

“Since you just said I’m definitely getting better, and my fever seems to be gone, I think I should be able to stay downstairs to eat.”

Ben couldn’t help smiling. Joe still excelled in grit and charm!

“And how ‘bout we play one game of checkers after we finish eating?”

“Don’t push your luck, Son! This is your first day without a fever. I don’t want you getting a relapse!”

“Pa, I didn’t ask to go out dancing! Stop showing the overprotective, mothering side of yourself!”

“You’re right, Son. You’re not that ten year old anymore!”

Ben smiled to himself and thought, After my ten year old son worked so hard to buy the bridle for Buck and make my birthday so special,  I wasn’t going to say no to eating downstairs and playing a game of checkers with my nineteen year old son!

As promised, Ben and Joe played one game of checkers after they ate. Ben, being the very wise father he was, let Joe win. Otherwise, he knew his son would have insisted on playing another game. 

Satisfied with the win, and honestly feeling a bit tired, Joe said goodnight. 

From the top of the stairs, a giggling Joe called down to his father, “Don’t forget to go to the outhouse before you go to bed, Pa!”

“Very funny, Young Man!” Ben chuckled remembering the same request he used to make of his ten year old son before he went to bed. 

Then Ben retaliated, as only Ben could. 

“I’ll be in early tomorrow with the castor oil!” Ben tried to say seriously. 

“You’re very funny, too, Pa! I’m cured! You and Doc Martin can keep your torture treatments. Why don’t you just sleep in? I have my own plans for tomorrow. Trust me! They don’t include castor oil! The only thing I’ll be drinking has a foam top!

Before Ben could open his mouth, Joe escaped into his room and slammed the door shut! 

Ben laughed, “Welcome back, Joseph!”

Then Ben got real serious and quietly said, “I don’t know what I would have done if I had lost you. Adam and Hoss both know how I always am about you! I do worry, but you’re right, Joe! I have to stop being such a mother hen!”

Sitting down in his red chair, Ben closed his eyes. 

He pictured all three sons and thought, 

 I am the luckiest man on earth with the best sons, plus I have the most meaningful and the fanciest bridle for Buck!

The End

Susan Pitch- August 26, 2024, my birthday!

Author’s notes:

At the end of the story when Ben says, “ Adam and Hoss both know how I always am about you,” comes from Adam saying it to Hoss in Showdown.

Treatment for pneumonia at the time centered on removing excess fluid that was believed to be causing the disease. Remedies included castor oil, chloroform, poultices of linseed or turpentine, cold water, brandy, whiskey, opium typically in the form of morphine for pain.

I’d like to extend a special thank you to June Baker for giving me great advice about being historically accurate in the flashback portion of the story and for steering me in the correct  direction for the cattle drive! Thank  you also to Pat Grubb for adding insight! 

Story referenced:

The Magnificent Adah written by Donald S. Sanford

Showdown written by Halsted Welles

by smp4ever

It had been a little more than five months since Alice passed away. Joe had been making progress. He had begun enjoying getting back into a regular work routine and being with friends again. But the past two weeks especially, Joseph had been a caution. Jamie, Candy, and I sat down for dinner. Joe was nowhere to be found. 

 Candy, “What do you think is wrong with Joe? He seemed to be adjusting well after you found the men who committed the heinous crime against Alice. He was more at peace after his time away, and after apprehending the murderers and bringing them to justice. What could be going on with him now? I know he’s drinking heavily which is making him more obnoxious and me more concerned!”

Candy shook his head, being just as perplexed as Ben. 

“I’ve tried talking with him when we’re riding fence or going into town for a beer. He just tells me to mind my own business and either rides away or walks away. The other night at the Silver Dollar, he got into a brawl with a miner because the guy accidentally bumped into him. That’s how I got this shiner. I couldn’t let Joe take on the miner and his friends alone! I’m sure you’ll be getting the bill from that free-for-all! Joe’s been looking for trouble. He’s even short tempered with the Hands. They’ve just about had it with him. I give the guys a menacing look and they back off, for how long I don’t know.” 

“Candy, you’ve proven yourself over and over to be such a good and true friend to Joe. Thank you!”

Jamie, who had been listening to the conversation, quietly interjected, “Pa?” Ben looked over at Jamie. “Isn’t this the time when Alice would have had the baby?”

Both Ben and Candy looked aghast! “Of course,” Ben said. “Alice was due at the end of March!” How could I have been so stupid?”

Ben got up from the table. “I’m going to look for Joe!” 

“Do you want us to go with you?” Jamie asked.

“No, this is something I need to do alone.”

Ben abruptly left the table and headed out the door.

Thinking of places Joe might be, Ben first headed to where Alice was buried. From a distance Ben could see a figure kneeling down with his hand touching the cross. Riding up quietly, Ben dismounted and approached Joe. It was obvious he had been drinking. 

Joe didn’t look up, but in almost a whisper said, “Do you know, Pa, I’ll never know if I was going to be the father of a boy or girl? Elizabeth, Ingrid, and Mama left you a piece of themselves through Adam, Hoss, and me. All I have is this stone cross! I feel so broken and angry. How much more am I supposed to take? I should be holding my son or daughter in my arms right now, but instead all I hold is Alice’s tombstone.” Joe looked up at Ben with tears streaming down his face. “I feel like I’m losing my mind!” 

Ben gently lifted Joe up from the ground and wrapped his strong arms around him. Joe struggled to break free! He yelled and cursed, but Ben wouldn’t release him. Finally, Joe’s body stopped fighting and sobs from deep within his soul resounded in the open field. Ben’s heart broke for Joe. All Ben could do was hold him and gently rub his back, the same way he did when Alice died.

Ben said, “Joseph, I have no words. There’s nothing I can say to ease your pain. I can’t explain why you have experienced so much sadness and loss. However you still have so much more life to live. I know you can’t even think about that now. Let’s just take it one step at a time. We’ll do this together and with other people who love you.”

 Joe’s sobs subsided. He was so exhausted. 

“Let’s go home, Son.” 

Joe followed Ben like a lost puppy dog over to their horses. As they rode home, Ben thought, “I’ve never heard silence quite this loud.”

Ben had Hop Sing draw a nice, hot bath for Joe since Ben knew Joe had been chilled by the early spring evening air. Ben brought Joe a hot cup of broth while he relaxed in the tub. Joe was grateful to his father. Pa knew his son so well and was aware he could never handle a complete meal tonight. Ben kept Joe company while he sipped his soup and soaked in the tub. His fatherly instincts told him that Joe was desperate for his presence right now. Age had nothing to do with needing a parent. It was circumstances that determined the need. This was one of those times. Finished with his bath, Joe stood up and stepped out of the tub.  Ben wrapped a large, warmed towel around him. While Joe dried off, Ben got a nightshirt from the bureau. He handed it to Joe and then guided him into bed. As soon as Joe’s head touched the pillow, he was out!  Ben caressed Joe’s face and kissed him, something he hadn’t done since he found Joe in the desert being hunted by Sam Wolf.  He prayed that Joe’s life would bring him happiness soon. He said, “Goodnight, Son,” and closed the door.

The next morning, Joe’s head and stomach weren’t a hundred percent so Pa took pity on Joe and gave him light chores for the day. He sent Joe into town to pick up the mail, some supplies, and make a deposit at the bank. As he walked along the streets of Virginia City, Joe politely tipped his hat to all the ladies he passed on the way to the mercantile. A young lady was being bothered by a drunken cowboy. Joe, being the gallant gentleman he was, went over to the cowboy and got him to back off. Perhaps it was the trip into the horses’ trough that convinced the man to stop harassing the young woman. Little did Joe know that a pair of peering eyes from the alley had been watching his every move. After loading the supplies, Joe meandered over to the salon to pay for damages from the other night. 

“Bruno, I’m really sorry for the ruckus I caused on Saturday.” Here’s $50. to cover the damages. If it’s not enough…”

Bruno stopped Joe mid sentence. 

“Joe, I explained to the miner what you’ve been going through. Keep your money. He and his friends already paid me.”

Joe was rendered speechless. 

After he found his voice , Joe said, “If you see them again, Bruno, please tell them I’d like to buy them a round of drinks.”

“Sure, Joe!”

With that, Joe headed to the bank, and made a last stop to pick up the mail. He walked back over to the mercantile, secured the tarp on the wagon, hopped up on the seat, and left town.

The ride home was uneventful. Spring was a time of hope and renewal.The weather was warming. Flowers were blooming. Joe was enjoying the fragrance and sweet smells around him and the greenery that surrounded him. The sky was an azure blue and…Joe’s peace was disturbed by what sounded like a crying kitten in the back of the wagon. He pulled to a stop to investigate. 

“Okay, Kitty, come on out. Don’t you go trying to eat some of our supplies.” The sound got louder. Joe pulled the tarp back and lifted the towel covering one of the boxes.

“ Oh Lordy, it’s a BABY!” 

Hoss’s saying was perfect for this moment.

 A note was attached to the baby’s blanket. 

“I’ve chosen you to take care of my baby. Her name is Jessica and she’s six weeks old. I am unable to care for her now. I know you will love her as your own.” 

Joe’s mouth was agape. Since he was almost at the ranch he chose to go home instead of going back to town. 

As Joe neared the front door he started screaming and yelling for his father.! 

Joe carefully lifted Baby Jessica from the box along with her blanket. As Pa came running out of the house thinking Joe had been injured, he stopped short seeing the vision before him. 

“Joe, that wasn’t on the supply list!”

Joe gave his father an incredulous look. “Seriously Pa? I found her tucked inside one of the boxes in the back of the wagon with this note attached.” 

Pa read the note. 

“Joe, she’s only six weeks old.

She needs a mother’s milk!”

“Don’t look at me! I can do a lot of things, but that ain’t one of them!”

“I’m being serious, Son!”

“So am I!” What are we going to do?” 

“I’ll send one of the Hands into town to get Doc Martin and tell him to bring a wet nurse with him. In the meantime let’s get Jessica into the house!”

Jamie was just coming in from school. 

Ben ran over to him and said, “Get into the wagon and go to the mercantile. Pick up a bolt of linen, a bolt of flannel, and a dozen safety pins. Also get a few long tube feeding bottles and baby clothes for a 6 week old girl. Just tell Nelly. She’ll know what to gather.”

 Jamie looked totally befuddled!  “What do you need them for?”

“Jamie, no questions now. Just get going! I have to get back to the baby before Joe starts panicking!”

“BABY!” Now Jamie was really confused, but he snapped the reins and off he went! 

As Ben walked back into the house he saw Joe holding the baby with his arms outstretched in front of him. He was yelling for Hop Sing in-between gagging. 

“I think she did something. Take her Pa before I throw up!” 

Joe handed off Jessica to Ben and made a mad dash out the front door.

“He has a lot to learn, Jessica. We’re going to have to be very patient with him!”

Ben grabbed a couple of napkins from the sideboard and headed into the kitchen. Hop Sing had water boiling on the stove top. Ben told him to wet one of the napkins. 

“Water for vegetables Hop Sing cooking!”

“Don’t argue, please. Just put water on one of the napkins!”

Ben laid Jessica on a towel on the kitchen table and proceeded to remove her diaper. Just then Joe walked in, not realizing the offensive operation was about to begin. He immediately turned on his heels and exited as quickly as he could! 

Ben yelled, “Joseph, get back in here right now!”

Ben chuckled quietly when he looked at Joe and saw him turning a bluish pale color. Joe was trying not to breathe, but Ben warned that he’d pass out if he didn’t take a breath soon. Joe inhaled deeply, just as Ben handed him the soiled diaper. Joe and the diaper, at high speed, ran out the door. Not being able to control his laughter any longer, Ben guffawed loudly! Jessica also must have found Joe’s antics comical and started smiling and cooing. Ben gently cleaned Jessica and placed the other napkin on her. He secured the diaper with a safety pin Hop Sing had found. Ben picked up the baby and cradled and rocked her. She was asleep instantly. 

Ben thought, “Guess I haven’t lost my magic touch!”

While holding sleeping Baby Jessica, Ben walked outside looking for Joe. He didn’t have to go far. Joe had just come up from soaking his head in the trough! A concerned Candy was standing next to Joe who was now sitting on the edge of the trough. Ben asked where the diaper was and without saying a word Joe pointed to the bucket. 

“Are you okay now, Son? Candy, did Joe tell you what’s going on?”

“No! Joe’s just been speaking in monosyllabic words and gagging! Could the baby in your arms have something to do with Joe’s behavior?”

Ben explained to Candy everything he and Joe knew so far.  Joe got up from the trough and gently took the baby from Ben’s arms. Jessica opened her eyes and smiled up at Joe. His heart melted at that moment and Joe realized not even a dirty diaper could keep him away. Candy, Ben, and Joe were entertaining Jessica with talking baby talk and making baby sounds. Just then, Doc Martin pulled up with the wet nurse. Doc introduced Hanna Townsend to them.

Joe and Ben led the doctor and wet nurse into the house. Joe showed Hanna to the guest room downstairs and then quickly went over to where the doctor was examining Jessica. Joe refused to leave the baby’s side. Doc Martin was amused by Jessica’s antics of using her grasping reflex and opening and closing her little hands. She was giving the doctor big smiles when he smiled at her. Jessica kept cooing and making gurgling sounds. Upon completing the examination, Paul Martin declared Jessica to be a healthy, happy baby. The wet nurse, who had come out of her room, picked up the baby, and walked back to the room to breastfeed Jessica. Joe started to follow her but Ben pulled him back. 

“Oh yeah!” is all Joe could say with a sly look on his face.

Doc Martin went over instructions with Ben and Joe. The doctor felt confident since Ben had already raised 3 babies.

Ben offered Paul some coffee, but he refused since he had to get back into town to see other patients.

The three men walked out the door just as Jamie pulled in with the supplies. Paul went on his way and the rest of them started unloading everything. When that was done, Ben, Hop Sing, and Jamie set up a station in the Great Room to begin the task of making diapers using the linen and flannel materials. They cut the fabric into squares and folded them into rectangular shapes. The neat piles they made were stored in several convenient places.

Hop Sing was mumbling something under his breath. All Ben could make out was, “So much foolishment, not wash dirty diapers since Little Joe was baby, and going back to China!” 

Ben ignored the tirades knowing Hop Sing wasn’t going anywhere. 

Meanwhile, Joe and Candy had gotten the cradle from the attic that Adam had made. They cleaned it up and began making the padding and pillow. The bedding was made from soft animal skins, downy feathers from birds, and blankets. The cradle was ready. Joe started to carry it up to his room but Ben stopped him. He explained that the cradle would have to go into Mrs. Townsend’s room for obvious reasons. Ben could tell by Joe’s expression, he was not happy, but he knew Joe understood. Joe had bonded with Jessica and had already become very possessive of this precious baby.

After supper, Jamie was playing with Jessica and was shaking the rattle Ben had put away about 28 years ago when Joe was two. Jessica and Jamie hit it off really well!

Jamie was laughing as much as the baby was making all kinds of gurgling sounds.

Ben had to interrupt the fun by asking Jamie if his homework was done. 

“No, Sir,” came the reply with a downtrodden face! Jamie said goodnight and headed upstairs to get his work finished. 

Candy had already left since he was going to be assuming some of Joe’s responsibilities until they all got into a steady routine with the baby. 

Mrs.Townsend was in her room reading, Hop Sing was still cleaning up after supper. That left Ben, Joe, and Jessica in the Great Room. 

Joe looked over at Ben, “Pa, will you show me how to diaper Jessica?” 

Ben never thought he would hear a question like that from one of his sons. 

“Of course, Joe.” 

Ben went through the whole explanation from start to finish. Now it was Joe’s turn to try. He picked up Jessica, laid her on a towel on the wooden table next to the settee. Joe checked the diaper which was only slightly wet, removed it, wiped Jessica, and put a clean diaper on her. Pa was very proud of Joe. He went back to sit in his red chair and told Joe to bring the baby over to him so he could hold her for a while. Joe did as Pa asked. Just as Joe started to hand her to his father, the diaper slipped off and Jessica began peeing all over Ben’s lap. 

Expressionless, Ben stood up and handed the baby back to Joe. In a monotone voice he said, “We’ll have another lesson, Son, after I change my pants!” 

Joe had to stifle a giggle! 

He looked at Jessica and said, “Back to the drawing board!” 

This time Joe secured the diaper properly. 

Mrs. Townsend came out of her room to take Jessica and feed her before retiring. As Joe leaned down to kiss the baby and wish her sweet dreams. Jessica grabbed his nose and started cooing. As difficult as it was, Joe gave Jessica to the wet nurse. 

Ben came back downstairs, this time wearing his nightshirt and maroon velvet robe. Joe snickered and Ben gave Joe a sideways glance! Joe explained what transpired over the last ten minutes, including Hop Sing washing Pa’s chair. Father and son sat down on the settee, since the red chair was still drying. It was a good time to discuss their plans and schedules. Ben thought it would also be a good idea to show the note to Roy. Joe agreed but had no intention of giving up the baby. Ben reassured Joe that that wouldn’t happen since the mother entrusted the baby’s care to him. It had been a long day, but Ben could see such a contented look on his son’s face. 

“I’m heading to bed, Son. How about you turn in too?”

“I will, Pa. I just want to sit here a little while longer.” 

“Do you want company?”

“No, Pa. You go to bed. I’ll be up shortly.

Pa? Ben turned and looked at Joe. “Thanks!”

Ben smiled at Joe and continued upstairs.

The next day Joe went out to the barn right before sunup to do several chores before Jessica woke up. Joe had gotten all sweaty so he removed his shirt. After finishing up what he wanted to accomplish, Joe went over to the water pump and washed off his face and chest.  He then headed back to the house so he could go upstairs and put on a clean shirt. As he walked through the door he saw the cradle in the Great Room. There was Baby Jessica cooing and making gurgling sounds. Mrs. Townsend was nowhere in sight so Joe decided to pick up the baby and have some special time with her. He nestled her against his bare chest.

Ben was coming out of the kitchen sipping his cup of coffee just as Jessica began sucking on Joe’s nipple! With eyes bulging and a horrified look on his face Joe yelled,  “Pa!” 

Ben sprayed his coffee all over the place as he burst out laughing!

Mrs. Townsend came running out of her room. 

Joe was in distress! Ben was still laughing! Mrs. Townsend was too embarrassed to disconnect Jessica from Joe’s nipple!

The baby was sucking extra hard since no milk was coming out! Joe was moaning! Just then Candy walked through the front door! 

“Joe, or should I call you Mama, aren’t you taking this caring for Jessica a little too far?”

“Sh sh shut up and g g get out!” Joe stuttered and hissed in a sharp whisper.

Jamie was coming down the stairs when his eyes caught this amazing sight. 

“Joe, men can breastfeed?” Jamie asked innocently. 

Candy motioned for Jamie to quickly leave the house with him. 

Jamie, looking baffled and confused, said, “But I haven’t had breakfast!” 

“Pick up something in town before school!” Candy suggested. 

With that said, both of them exited the house.

Joe was now making little groaning sounds, while Ben was still choking from laughter.

Hop Sing heard all the commotion and realized what was happening. He came running into the Great Room with butter.

“Hop Song put butter! Slide nipple out!” 

“Somebody, do something,” Joe yelled in between making ooh, ahh, eeeh sounds.

Ben finally pulled himself together and came over to help. Joe was grimacing! All Ben could do was rub Joe’s back and tell him to take it easy. Joe just glared at Ben.

Mrs.Townsend, thankfully put her embarrassment aside and walked over to Joe. She gently eased a clean finger inside the corner of Jessica’s mouth between the gums to break the suction. She continued along the side of Joe’s nipple to protect it. If Jessica tried to keep sucking, it would be on Mrs. Townsend’s finger and not on Joe’s nipple. She pressed down on Joe’s breast and broke the suction. Joe let out a tiny gasp!

Mrs. Townsend, who was a lovely shade of deep scarlett, quickly, but gently yanked a screaming Jessica away from Joe and carried her into the room for proper breastfeeding. 

Joe, who was as red as a tomato, straightened up, gave his father his best flared nostril look, and made a quick exit up to his room. Hop Sing came running after Joe carrying ice and lineament. Joe was grateful. His nipple was so tender and sore. 

Joe stayed in his room icing and soothing his aching, painful breast. Since he didn’t have breakfast, Joe was hungry.

Ben and Candy were already seated at the table for lunch. As soon as Joe began to descend the stairs, the snickering ceased.

Not a word was ever said about the morning incident, well at least not in front of Joe!

Mrs. Townsend moved out after a month and Joe moved the cradle up to his room. Jessica could now drink cow’s milk mixed with a little water, sugar, and cream. Joe loved feeding the baby from a bottle. He learned to burp her, and he became a masterful diaper changer. Bath time was special too. Jessica loved splashing!  Joe would get soaked and water would run down his face. Of course, that would make Joe giggle! Jessica was such a joy, even with the spitting up and soiled diapers! Day after day, the Cartwrights, Candy, and Hop Sing took turns watching the baby and playing with her. When it was Joe’s turn he’d put her in a big, soft basket lined with a blanket. She would accompany him to the barn or to feed the chickens.

 One day, Joe needed to go into the tack room to check on a couple of bridles.The room was so disorganized. He didn’t want to bring Jessica into that dirty place, so he left her right outside the barn, knowing he would only be gone for several minutes. When Joe came out, the basket was gone! Joe went running into the house to see if Pa brought Jessica back inside. 

“She’s gone!” I don’t know where she went!”

“Joseph, calm down. Jessica is too little to walk away. She can’t even crawl!”

“Then she was kidnapped!” Go get the sheriff, Pa. Tell him to form a posse!”

“Joseph, take a breath. Let’s go outside and look for her!”

They checked the bunkhouse but all the men were out either rounding up strays, riding fence, or busting broncs at the coral. Ben assured Joe they would find her. They walked the perimeter of the house. Listening carefully they heard Hop Sing singing and a baby making all kinds of gurgling sounds. As Ben and Joe rounded the house there the two were in the garden. Hop Sing was picking vegetables as Jessica was watching. 

Hop Sing looked up. 

“Bad boy, Little Joe. Never leave baby alone. Now learn lesson, hmph!”

Two more months had passed. Jessica could not have gotten more love than she did from these five men. She was developing more skills and behaviors. Jessica was now giggling. She and Joe competed for the best giggler. When they’d lay her on the floor she was beginning to roll from her tummy to her back. All of their lives had become richer because of Jessica. Joe couldn’t have been happier. 

Hop Sing had just served supper. Jessica had been sitting on Joe’s lap but he put her in the cradle next to him while they ate. Candy was talking about the string of horses that were now ready to be sold to the army. Jamie shared gossip at school between Big Josh Bell and shapely Melanie Holmes. Ben gave Jamie a crossed look but everyone enjoyed the story of how they were both caught in the outhouse sparking! 

Joe smirked, recalling a similar situation. Ben flashed a smile at Joe which reminded him about how Pa handled that! 

A loud knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Joe got up to answer the door. A young couple was standing in front of him. Joe invited them in. He felt a sinking feeling inside his stomach. 

The young lady introduced herself as Jennifer Jenkins. She saw Jessica and asked if she could pick her up. Immediately everyone knew who Jennifer was. 

Joe felt like he had been stabbed in the heart. While Jennifer held Jessica everyone moved to the settee and chairs. The young man introduced himself as Jonathan Burns. Jennifer explained that she had run away from home after she realized she was pregnant. Knowing her parents they’d never be able to accept this scandal. 

“You see, Mr. Cartwright I come from a very well to do and prestigious family, as does Jonathan. I didn’t even tell Jonathan I was leaving. We had planned to wed. Our engagement had already been announced but I couldn’t face the shame I’d bring to both our families.

I made it to a relay station outside of Virginia City. A very lovely, older woman at the station realized I was in distress. The baby was coming. She birthed my baby and took care of me for weeks until I regained my strength. I knew I couldn’t stay there forever and I needed to make money. I got a ride into Virginia City and planned to get a job at the saloon.”

Jennifer turned toward Joe, “I was heading toward the Silver Dollar when I saw you from an alleyway, Joe. Jessica was carefully hidden in the alley. My idea was to observe people and see to whom I could give Jessica. You were so polite, kind, and gallant. After you left the mercantile, I went inside to inquire about you. Only positive and glowing remarks were made about you and your family. I knew I couldn’t take care of my baby anymore so I put her in the back of your wagon.”

Jennifer looked at Jessica and said, “I know I made the right choice! I’ll never be able to thank you enough for loving and caring for my baby!”

Jennifer returned to telling her story. 

“Jonathan came into Virginia City several days ago. He has been searching for me for months. We got married yesterday and are now ready to take Jessica and return home to St. Louis. Jonathan said both our families want us to come home. They are eagerly awaiting meeting their granddaughter.”

Ben suggested they spend the night and leave in the morning. The young couple was very grateful. After Jennifer finished her story, everyone returned to the table for dessert. 

Joe excused himself and went upstairs to gather all of Jessica’s things. As Joe picked up one of her little dresses he buried his face in it and cried softly. Joe washed his face, gathered all the items, and headed back downstairs. No one, except Ben knew how heartbroken Joe was at that moment because Joe concealed his real feelings with a smile on his face and by joking around. 

Jonathan and Jennifer turned to Joe and asked if he and his family would come to St. Louis in a month to attend the baby’s christening. 

Then Jennifer looked at Joe and added, “We’d like you to be Jessica’s Godfather!” 

Joe could only shake his head in the affirmative. He was too choked up to speak.

The next morning Jennifer, Jonathan, and Jessica got ready to leave. There were multiple goodbyes, hugs and kisses for baby Jessica, a million thank yous from Jennifer and Jonathan, and then finally the wave goodbye as the buggy pulled away. 

The mood in the Cartwright home was very somber. Joe, Ben, and Candy headed out to work, while Jamie left for school. Hop Sing wiped the tears from his eyes as he cleaned up after breakfast. A special love and joy that had been absent from the Cartwright home for so long had filled the house again. Hop Sing hoped they could all survive this latest loss, especially Joe. 

That night everyone gathered for supper. Everyone that is except Joe. Ben asked Candy and Jamie if Joe had told them about other plans he had. Neither had a clue. Once again Ben felt compelled to find Joe. Ben got up and headed to the same place he had looked for Joe more than three months ago. As Alice’s cross came into view, Ben could see Joe kneeling next to her grave. Ben dismounted, took a deep breath and approached Joe. Expecting to find him totally distraught, Ben braced himself. 

Instead, Joe looked up at Ben and said, “You know, Pa, I’ve had a nice, long talk with Alice. I told her I’m ready to meet someone and start a family. Jessica taught me so much and I want to get going producing little Cartwrights. It’s time to bring more love and joy into our home again.”

“Joe, you amaze me!  Come on, Son, how about heading home for supper?”

“Sounds good to me, Pa!” 

This time Ben and Joe walked back over to their horses with their arms around each other’s shoulders.

Spring had truly been a time of hope and renewal!

The End

Susan Pitch August 10, 2024

Author’s notes: 

The breastfeeding scene with Joe was inspired by something similar that happened with my older brother and my niece when she was an infant. My brother was bare chested and when he cradled her, my niece did what came naturally. Of course I embellished, elaborated, and made Joe’s experience much more dramatic. What Mrs.Townsend did to break the suction is exactly what is done between mother and baby if breastfeeding becomes too painful for her while the baby is sucking.

Episode Referenced:

Forever written by Michael Landon

The Gift written by Thomas Thompson and Denne Bart Petitclerc