Telegrams.

5th story in the Alexandra Series.

Summary: You wanted to know the why, the when and the how Alexandra came about. Well here it is. Adam receives a wire from San Francisco. He embarks on a journey with Alexandra to bring Katherine home one way or another. He recalls the events of the past along the way.

Disclaimer: I do not own Bonanza, or any of its characters. David Dortort and Fred Hamilton created them and played with them for 14 years. The series is owned by NBC.

Re-Cap: "But, I thought I was off restrictions, Dad?" said Alexandra, as she flopped around on his shoulder, trying to stay balanced, against the movement of her father's long marching gait.

"Only at school, little lady. At home, you still have your shadow, and tonight's; that me."

Chapter 2: Me and My Shadow.

~oOo~

Once home, Adam and Alexandra started on her chores; mucking out Carlapicio's box, feeding Little George and bedding down the chickens. Adam followed Alexandra through each task, then had her follow him through his, like; tidying the tack room and organising supplies for another day out on the range. Hoss and Little Joe and the other hands would be rounding up the cattle for the upcoming drive. They stacked the store house with the extra provisions that Hop Sing would be taking. The Cook for this year's drive, Hop Sing had spent weeks smoking meats and canning preservatives for the trip, along with drying out a number of his special herbs, that he would use not only for cooking, but for medicinal purposes too. He could treat wounds and upset stomachs with his special herbs.

All the time Alexandra and Adam chatted away happily. While it was annoying; not being out of her father's sight, in truth it had also been nice.

"Dad, how come they ain't let momma outta jail yet?"

"Because, when they acquitted her of first degree murder, they declared her insane. That made her a ward of the territory, so the prison is in charge of her."

"But, they know she is innocent, Dad. They know she didn't kill Darcy."

"Yes they know that, they believe that, but they have to have the trial transcripts too. They have to have all the proper documents. They have let a good doctor come and see her. He's helping to make her well, but they won't let her out to go to a good hospital, until we can take guardianship; until they know for sure someone is going to make sure she's looked after and she won't do anything dangerous to herself and anyone else."

"She won't dad, I know it."

"No, she won't, baby. I know it too. And the lawyer in San Francisco and Mr Barkley they are doing everything they can to make sure that I will be able to take guardianship of her."

"Those prison people are dumb, dad, they're jist dumb, they's making it harder and bein jist mean."

"I guess it seems that way. But, I'll be there soon; by the end of next week and in plenty of time for the appeal, and then I'll win."

"You will, dad. You can do it."

"I appreciate the trust you have in me. Now follow me, time to wash up for supper."

Just then Hoss and Little Joe rode into the yard with a number of dirty and dusty trail hands.

"Hey there, Adam," called Hoss as he pulled up beside the hitching rail.

"Hoss, Joe, everything bedded down up at the north pasture."

"Yep," said Joe, "We'll start on the south tomorrow. Barney and Zeke are watching the heard tonight. The others are gonna get fed and hit the sack. We'll head out at dawn."

The hands all waved to Adam on their way to the wash house. "Thanks fella's good day's work." said Adam. "Thanks Joe. I know I'm pushing you all, but I could be in San Francisco for three weeks; I'd like to know we are ready to roll, come the first of the month."

"No worries, big brother. It will be done."

"Yeah Adam, were ahead of schedule," said Hoss.

Alexandra pocked her head around her father's waist, and silently gave her Uncles a wave.

Hoss winked back at her. "Hey there, big brother, I ain't seen yer shadow today; you let that little possum off restrictions?"

Alexandra stiffed a giggle with her hand.

"No, Alexandra is not off restrictions yet, though she's been pretty good, haven't you Alex?" said Adam as he turned around to look over his shoulder.

Alexandra pivoted with him, masking herself from his sight.

"Hey where did she go, she was just here a minute a go," said Adam. "Alexandra where are you? You see her Hoss?" questioned Adam, with a wink.

"Nah, Adam, I don't see her. You sure you ain't been imaginin' things?" he laughed.

Adam turned around quickly again, but still not fast enough. Alexandra followed in his dust; staying just close enough to his back legs to side step quickly and stay out of his sight.

Joe giggled at her antics. "Yeah, big brother, you been shadowing that poor little gal all week, or her you. So, how could you lose her?"

Adam smirked, "Well beats me, Alex the Smart Alec can do that sometimes." Adam quickly turned again, missing the child's dodge, though not the giggle she could no longer contain. Adam spun left, then right, then left again. On the third turn, Alexandra couldn't keep up and her father scooped up the wriggling child in a fistful of chuckles and belly laughs.

"Ohhh, here's my shadow, trying to fool her old man," he mocked in jest, then buried his scratchy chin in her neck and growled as he shook his head, creating a torturous tickle.

Alexandra laughed and kicked, until she was exhausted. Then Adam threw her over her shoulder and headed along with Joe and Hoss to the wash stand just outside the kitchen door.

~oOo~

Once supper was ended, and Alexandra had shadowed Hop Sing in the kitchen and dining room with the clean up, Adam called her to get ready for bed.

Alexandra didn't complain just sighed and dragged her feet into the big room and took her father's hand. "It's only seven o'clock, dad."

"I know."

"Don't worry Pip Squeak we're all having early night tonight," yawned Joe.

Alexandra, looked around her father's legs, and spotted her grandfather sitting at his large desk. "Even Grandpa?"

Ben Looked up, and smiled. "Yes Alexandra, I won't be long either, just adding the spring calf's to counts to the stock inventory. You gonna give me a big hug before bed?"

Alexandra scooted forward and scrambled up on her grandfathers lap, as he pushed his big captain's chair out. "Night Grandpa, I love you. And thank you."

"Thank me?"

"Yeah, for letting my daddy go and help my momma, especially considering his the best hand yer got."

"Hey, I don't know about that Pip Squeak," said an indignant Joe.

"You're gonna be good too, Uncle Little Joe?" offered Alex, thinking she'd hurt his feelings.

"He sure is, darling," said Ben. "This year, Joe's gotta a crew of his own."

"Yeah, the draggg crew," whined Joe.

"And the Remuda; wrangling what you are good at, Joe," complimented Hoss.

"Well we all start somewhere Joe, besides, keeping the horse healthy and fit is just as important to the drive as getting the cattle there," encouraged his father.

"Yeah, it's the drag, though. Well at least this year, you're the one in charge there. You've earned the respect from the other young ones coming by doing your time there, Boy," said Adam.

"Don't call me boy, Adam," scowled Joe.

"Okay, cowboy..." teased Adam, rolling his eyes at Joe's over sensitivity. .

Annoyed at Adam's sarcastic retort, Joe punched him on the arm.

"Oweee," said Adam and nudged him back.

"Boys!" admonished Ben, "enough."

"Boy Granddad, them boys of yours are sure quarrelsome."

"That they are, and if they don't stop it they'll be getting a sound thrashing and sent to bed immediately," mocked Ben.

Alexandra Laughed. "Jist like the old women in the shoe."

"Hmm," Ben then tickled Alexandra. "Kiss me please Grandchild of mine; then bed for you too."

Alexandra complied happily, "Hugs and kisses Magnanimous grandpa of mine."

Hoss, Joe and Adam all laughed, as Alexandra jumped down and headed up the stairs with Adam behind her.

"Magnanimous? That little girl, sure likes to learn new words, don't she?" chuckled Hoss.

"Yeah, means big, jist like you," cackled Joe.

"It means big of heart, Joe," said Ben. "Just like Alex, imagine her thanking me like that," he choked, wiping a stray tear that had escaped his eye.

"She's a spitfire, but with a heart of gold Pa. Hope that don't change," regarded Hoss.

"She sure has been good," said Joe shaking his head.

"I hope it continues, especially when Adams away. Alex can get a bit tetchy with her daddy gone," said Hoss.

"We'll manage boys. We coped with Joe," laughed Ben.

Adam heard the last of the conversations as he headed up the narrow hallway to Alexandra's bedroom. He walked in to find Alexandra, struggling with the buttons on her work britches, trying to yank the waist open.

"Hey, stop, Alex, you'll rip them," said Adam.

"Maybe, but I done tied the string in too many knots and now I can't undo them," huffed Alexandra.

"Why are your pants tied up with string?" asked Adam, bending down in front of her to examine the tangled mess.

"Cause the button came off dad, and I only had some string. So, I tried it through the holes here; see. But, I was afraid theys was gonna fall down, so I done double knots," explained Alex.

"Here let me help," said Adam.

While Adam untied it each knot, Alexandra stared at the log house that sat on top of her dresser. "Dad, are yer gonna pout another part of the log on the wall tonight?"

"Maybe, I didn't like finding out you have been poking your tongue out at Miss Jones, though."

"I only did it once dad; I jist kinda forgot, cause I really wanted ta play outside, and well... well I stopped myself at least ten times afore that. Don't that count?"

"Yes I guess it does," said Adam, finally freeing the string from her britches. He helped Alexandra out of her shirt and into her nightdress. "There done! Now wash your face and brush your teeth," he ordered sending her on her way to the washbasin.

"So," said Adam as stacked another log on the model of the Ponderosa's ranch house, "Soon we'll be able to put the roof on."

Alexandra smiled. "I wish you could take it to Sam Francisco with you. Maybe momma would like to see our home; her home."

Adam's heart sunk at that. He just didn't know if Katherine was ever going to be able to come home. He tinkered with the house a little, wishing in his heart for the same thing. Taking the model house would create a connection for both mother and child. "Tell you what," smiled Adam, "Why don't you do a drawing of it. That way she can see it, and we won't risk it breaking."

"Good, idea dad , I can draw the roof on it, but you're gonna hafta put it on for me though so I can see how it's supposed to look," said Alexandra excitedly as she ran to her desk and started pulling out her pencils and paper.

"Whoa, slow down. You're not doing this tonight," said Adam as he gently took the pencils out of her hands and led her back to bed. He held the covers up for Alexandra while she got into bed. "We can have a go at a drawing tomorrow after school. "

Alexandra wasn't happy, but didn't resist her father's gentle but firm directions. She huffed and slammed her arms down above the covers that her father had positioned snugly around her.

"Alexandra!" warned Adam. "Don't let your excitement or your disappointment drive a bad attitude. Get the scowl off your face, now," he said, raising one bushy eyebrow.

Alexandra wanted to cry, but she had toughed it out all week and wasn't about to give up now. She couldn't remove that scowl, if she did, she was sure the damn would bust.

Adam recognised her struggle, "Okay, sweetheart, I know this is hard. You've been so good, I am so proud of you, I ..."

"No dad, don't say that," suddenly Alex burst into tears.

Adam quickly moved to the bed, and pulled her into his arms then into his lap as he sat back down on the bed. He let her cry it all out, her frustrations and her fears all the time rubbing her back and kissing her mop of blonde curls.

Alexandra sniffed and scrubbed at her face.

"What's this all about, now? Tears? This isn't like you," appeased Adam.

"I just wanted mamma... ta see the whole house. I don't want her ta think that we ain't all whole here," she sniffed.

"We are darling. This lesson wasn't meant to make you think we aren't whole; that we aren't happy. It was just to make you think about how trust works. How it needs building sometimes; bit by bit, but we're whole baby..."

"But momma isn't part of 'The Us', of the whole daddy. She don't even know Uncle Joe or Uncle Hoss, she might get better iffin she did."

"She might at that. So tomorrow we will put the roof on, so you can draw it. I will show your momma, just like I've told her everything about you every time I've visited. Something's she' will have remembered and some things she won't, but I'll do my best to make sure she feels part of all of us. Most of all I'll make sure she knows what a special daughter she has; one that has been a real gift to me."

Alexandra brightened; she looked up into her father's face and then sat up in his lap. She grabbed both sides of his face and held his gaze. "Thanks, daddy," she kissed Adam on the nose. "And yer can take the roof off again, dad, once I've drawn it. I knowed, I still got some trust ta build."

"Good girl. You're at least honest."

"Yeah, dad, cause honest means trusting...and... being trusted."

"That's right, it goes both ways. Trusting someone enough to be honest with them, earns their trust in return. Back into bed, sleep now."

Alexandra climbed back into bed. "Still early dad and well... I ..."

"You've have something else to tell me?"

"Yeah, dad. I been working hard at bein real good, and ta tell yer the truth, I don't know how much I can keep it up. I ain't good all the time, ceptin I don't know that I ain't bein good, I don't think I'm being bad either, but I tell yer daddy, it takes a lot of thinking ta try and figure out sometimes what's the good thing ta do. Sometimes yer don't really get ta think about it, yer jist ... well..."

"React. Sometimes, Alex, we have to follow our gut; our instincts. It's just hoped that somewhere along the way, your instinct were trained to react logically, or safely. That's part of what daddy's and families try to teach each other."

Alexandra nodded. "I'll keep tryin dad, but I can't promise I'll get it right. I've had some pretty close calls all week."

"Like poking out your tongue." he quipped, mocking a frown.

"Yup, I done slipped there a tad, dad," she giggled. "Then, there was another time; one more time Miss Jones didn't tell yer about. She was being nice I reckon, or most likely she was jist too embarrassed ta discuss it. Embarrassments a funny thing ain't it dad. Seems ta me people get embarrassed at all the same sorts of things, all normal everyday things some good, and some jist well normal and everyone's gotta do em, or they can't help doing it. Oh I knows there things that ain't polite ta do or talk about like belchin' and fluctuating..."

"Fluctuating?" asked Adam confused.

"Yeah, you know belching from the other end," clarified Alex.

"Ohhh, yes, that is embarrassing and bad manners," confirmed Adam.

"But, people get embarrassed about being in love, or even jist sneezing, I guess, it don't look to pretty when yer have snot all over yer face, but that kind of things sorta in God's will ain't it. Miss Jones turns all red when she's embarrassed and then she gets embarrassed because she's turned all red and everyone knows, it jist gets worsa and worsa…"

Adam had missed hearing Alexandra's reasoning sessions and he wanted to see where this was going. He knew his daughter was trying to tell him something. "Alexandra, so this other incident, I take it, it embarrassed Miss Jones. Perhaps, even if Miss Jones didn't tell me, you should have," he suggested.

"I know dad, I'm tellin' yer now. But then, I also knowed that Miss Jones would be real embarrassed for you to know, and well she handled the ….dis… discre... trans... wrong doin."

"Well, then the next thing I need to know, were you part of this transgression?"

"Sort of dad, and not!"

"Ohhh, explain, please," directed Adam.

"Well, I was jist telling the other kids about how Uncle Joe can make a horse pee by whistling. And well the kids didn't believe me. We was whispering about in class when Miss Jones went ta get some books from the store cupboard. Willy asked me ta show him, so I whistle that funny tune Uncle Joe showed me, and then Willy copied me. He got it down real pat, then when Miss Jones come back, he starts ta whistle. I didn't think too much about it, cause it don't work on people, and I jist figured Willy was being stupid. Miss Jones heard him whistling and done told him to stop and he did. But, then Josh started it up. Miss Jones stopped him, then she frowned and told us ta go on with our work. The all of a sudden she went running fer the outhouse!"

"I don't think the whistling did that Alexandra," said Adam trying not to laugh.

"Still dad, it was a real coincidence though, and I kinda felt real bad, cause I done showed them how ta whistle the pee tune and all."

"Well you weren't responsible for them misbehaving and trying to use what you showed them to prank Miss Jones. However, you should have been working on your school work while Miss Jones was absent. So that's the only naughty thing you've done so far, Alexandra."

"Hmmm, but dad, teachers don't really expect ta us ta be completely silent when they leave the class; a kid can't keep quiet that long or sit still; it ain't natural."

Adam shook his head, "It comes with practice little lady," he smirked.

Alexandra nodded, "I was trying ta be good dad, honest. And then Willy and others figured the whistling worked, so Willy reckoned it was a golden opportunity. Willy went out there and locked the door on Miss Jones."

Adam growled, "Willy Fitzgerald, sounds like he's getting a little out of hand again."

"Yeah Dad, I don't know why he wants ta do that stuff. He's always trying ta get a laugh outta people."

"Locking Miss Jones in the outhouse is not funny. And I hope you didn't encourage it," groused Adam, now concerned that Alexandra was back to her old mischievous self. Adam accepted the fact the Alexandra would most like still muck up some, he just hoped, she could outlast a week, and have learned her lesson about respecting her elders.

"I didn't dad, I kinda thought it was funny at first; I mean what kid wouldn't, but then, I remembered about what you said about respecting my elders, and well treating others with dignity, jist like Mr Lincoln said. And I figured Miss Jones, who gets real embarrassed, wasn't beein treated with dignity, so I went and unlocked the door. Miss Jones was real mad, she thought I done it, but then Josh told her it weren't me."

"Alexandra I've very proud of you for doing that, again you are not in trouble, in actual fact that deserves another log on our wall of trust. That just what I mean about trusting you, knowing you will try and do what's always right."

"Thanks dad, even though I did laugh jist a bit at first?"

"Yes even though you just laughed a little bit at first. You let your conscience straighten you up."

"Trouble is dad, Miss Jones was still angry, not at me so much, but the whole class because no one would own up and no one would snitch on Willy. We all got kept in, which I don't think is fair cause it was mainly Willy, but he was too scared ta own up cause he's pa was probably gonna strip the hide of his back."

"I don't think Tom would strip the hide of his son's back, but Alexandra, Willy needed to be corrected. And his father has the right ta do that."

"He was scared dad, sides, I couldn't be a snitch. I looked like a too goody two shoes as it was, I still got a reputation some. I know I was hurting some of the other kids, by not telling, cause Miss Jones kept us all in, but theys all did the same, theys was willing ta do it for Willy too. We was hoping that he'd own up, but he didn't. Guess he jist ain't manured like some of us others yet. So, I ain't actually been a saint this week, dad."

"The words mature, Alexandra," laughed Adam.

"Ohh, I thought it was the same as cheese. Grandpa says good cheese gets better with age, when its manured."

"No that's matured as well, Alex. But, I guess you are right, about Willy that is. And you might be my little angle, but I know, you are not good all the time, but I really like that you try, and that you care about others. I also really like that you have fun, but…"

"Here comes the but," frowned Alexandra.

"Yep, but, school is school, and Miss Jones is in charge there. She is a good teacher who cares and deserves the respect. If she was doing a terrible job, or was unreasonable with you children the school board would dismiss her. I am on that school board, so I stand by whatever methods she uses to maintain discipline that is fair and reasonable. Perhaps she was trying to get Willy to feel guilty for getting everybody into trouble, though you weren't harshly dealt with."

"Maybe, still didn't seem fair. I wanted ta punch Willy in the nose, good."

"Well then I would have been very unhappy about that. And you would have been finding yourself with a sore bottom gettin into bed tonight.

"It happened on Tuesday, dad."

"There's no statute of limitations on misbehaviour at school, Alexandra."

"Huh?"

"It an enactment in a common law that sets the maximum time after an event that legal proceedings or compensation can be applied for. If the maximum time passes and no one's been made accountable, then they sort of get off."

"And it's a statue?"

"No statute, like a rule. There is a limit of time to the rule..."

"Dad, I'm confused. Whatta trying ta say dad?"

"I'm saying don't play up at school, because no matter how long ago you may have misbehaved, there will be consequences."

"Even when I'm like real old, like you?"

"Yes."

"Like Uncle Joe?"

"Yes, especially Uncle Joe. His school hi- jinks got him into a lot of trouble. In actual fact I'll also be talking to Joe about teaching you to whistle. Girls don't whistle."

"Why?"

"It's not lady like."

"But I ain't a lady yet, dad."

"Alexandra, no whistling and especially in class."

"Are there limited statues about becoming a lady dad?"

Adam dry scrubbed his face, he sighed in resignation. "No, you can take as long as you like to become a lady."

"Good, cause I'm not all that interested in becoming one iffin I can't whistle, but I then might change my mind some day."

"And that's a woman's prerogative that perhaps needs a statute of limitation," laughed Adam, as he mumbled to himself.

"You made a joke fer yerself didn't yer, dad?"

"Yes I did. Now no more talk, its bedtime; sleep time," Adam quickly re-defined.

"I still ain't tired dad. Tell me about when Uncle Joe was at school. What was the hi- jinks he got up to."

"No, I don't want you getting any ideas."

"But, I already knowed some of them."

"Really, perhaps you should tell me then." asked Adam.

"Well, don't rightly know that I should, him not having the protection of the limited statues an all. He did tell me once that you were his school teacher and he didn't like it. You were real bossy. But then all teachers are bossy. They teach teachers to be bossy; it's their job."

"Yes well Joe would think I was bossy. He was naughty at school."

"What a silly kid dad, he wouldn't ta be able ta get away with anything with you as his teacher."

"And he didn't, but he thought he could. I had to teach school for three weeks, until they could find another teacher; before they found Miss Jones. They picked me because I'd just come back from college. Your Uncle Joe was about twelve and he was not all happy about me being his teacher.

Flashback.

"Aww, Pa, make Adam say no. He can't be my teacher it ain't fair," whined Joe.

"It isn't fair," corrected Adam.

"See Pa, he agrees. It's bad enough at home. Now its goin ta be all day every day. Ita be like havin a big shadow of doom hanging over me all the time. Pa, you can say he's too important to the ranch. We kids can still get our work done with Mrs Evans."

"No Joe, Mrs Evan's was upset with the way your class behaved when she tried teaching you all about the Indian raids on the early settlers."

"Aww Pa, it was her Idea, she..."

"It was her Idea to have you and your classmates tie her to the flag pole and re-enact an Indian uprising!" said Adam, incredulously.

"We was pretending, Adam."

"Well, while Miss Evans intentions was to make it a little more interesting for you, she did not expect, or deserve your manipulation of her instructions, young man," scolded Ben.

"Okay, I know. But, Pa, we all said we was sorry. You said it was over once we were punished; we all got a tanning, Pa. How come we are getting punished more? Having Adam as our teacher is jist plain cruel."

"It's not a fate worth than death, Joseph, so you will cease the argument. You will go and get your book stack and you will go to school with your brother. You will not give him any reason to have to send a note home for misbehaviour. For if you do; you will not only be punished by Adam, but you will receive a second punishment from me. Is that understood? "

"Yes Pa. But Adam, please don't call me Little Joe, all the others just call me Joe."

"Okay, I'll promise to treat you like any other student, Joe and that means you'll have to call me Mr Cartwright."

"Okay, fair deal...I guess."

"Good, now you have two minutes to get yourself ready or you will be sporting a sore backside before you even get there," warned Ben.

"Yes sir," moaned Joe, and shuffled unhappily out to the kitchen to get his books and lunch pail.

Adam sipped on his coffee, and then wiped this mouth, before standing up. "Well; wish me luck."

"You'll need it brother, I couldn't think of anything harder than teachin' Joe. I remember what he was like. His friends are jist as bad."

"They are twelve, Hoss. I can handle twelve year old boys. Actually I'm looking forward to it. Joseph is smart. He can do so much better at school. I'd like the opportunity to help him."

"You're a good brother Adam. Just don't be too disappointed if it doesn't work out," said Ben.

End flashback

"Well things did work out pretty well for the first week, however by the second week Joseph was getting more than a little frustrated at being good. In some ways I think he appreciated the extra help with his school work, but I could tell his feet were just itchin' to get into something different. His friends were also finding life boring as Joe was often the main instigator of any prank that had been played over the last year," explained Adam.

"I know how he feels. Were all the kids good?" Alexandra asked surprised.

"Yes pretty much the first week. I think they may have been a little scared of me at first. Before Mrs Evans, they had a Mr. Phillips. He wasn't so... his views about education were different than mine. He was particularly hard on Joe and little Mary Wilkins, because they were natural left handers."

"Oh Miss Jones don't really care about that. She does try ta get Willy Fitzgerald ta use both his hands as much, though. But, she lets him write with his left hand. Course, he ain't real god with the ink scribes yet, neither is I."

"Am I; neither am I," corrected Adam.

"What you too, dad? Guess it must run in the family, then. Miss Jones says it won't be too much longer, I've nearly got it right."

Adam shook his head, but gave up on the idea of correcting Alexandra. "Yes well I got it right, eventually, so you will too," conceded Adam "Miss Jones is a good teacher."

"Suppose so, she's a teacher, ain't nothin specially good or bad, I guess."

"That's a funny thing ta say, Alexandra."

"Why, Dad? Teachers are supposed to be good, ain't they? Iffin they're good then they're teachin, iffin they're bad they ain't teaching good stuff or teachin anything worthy or important, so they really shouldn't be callin there selves teachers. They are people in the wrong job, is what I reckon. "

Adam had to laugh, he tapped Alexandra on the nose," I may just have to write that one down, my little girl has added a philosophical truth to the definition of a teacher. "

"Well don't go using those bigger words, dad, cause no one will understand ya, ceptin maybe a teacher, and well that could be mighty embarrassing for those who don't... like me."

Adam laughed, "Okay, I'll try not to embarrass anyone. Speaking of such, in the end, that is what got Joe all riled up and angry with me."

"Oh you embarrassed him as his teacher."

"Sort of, but he got his own back."

"What happened?"

"Well after about a week, Joe was practically jumping out of his skin..."

Flashback

"You take that back, Michael," yelled Joe as he pulled his sleeves up reading to punch Michael Dawson right in the nose.

"Hey what's yer getting so riled up for Joe," interceded his best friend Mitch. "Adam... I mean Mr Cartwright, won't like you fighting."

"Oh, Wittle Joe, Mister Cartwright won't like ya fighting," mimicked Michael. "You're all jist a bunch of chickens. Besides I bet he wouldn't do nothing ta Joe, he' the teachers new pet; helping him more than the rest of us. Corse its only cause he's a left handed freak and a dumb one ta boot."

That was enough for Joe, and he dived on the boy, pinning him on the ground and getting one good punch in before Adam moved in and hurled Joe of his feet." Joseph, stop this."

Joe was in such a rage, he ignored his older brother, now the voice of authority at school, and struggled, kicking and huffing at Michael who was pulling himself up off the ground, and wiping the blood from a bleeding lip. As soon as Adam let Joe go, to bend down to look at Michaels lip, Joe charged forward again. Luckily, Adam was just as quick to react and grabbed Joe firmly by the collar again. "That's enough Little Joe, go inside and wait for me; move!" He bellowed, and landed a hefty swat to Joe's backside, raising enough dust to have everyone close by spluttering.

Joe never felt so embarrassed in all his life; his big brother swatting him in front of everyone. And he called him little Joe when he had promised he wouldn't. He ran into the school house and then out the side door, heading home. He knew he'd be in for it once he got there and his father found out about the fight, but at least he'd be berated in his own home and not in front of his friends.

Adam turned on the youngsters. "Michael, you'll join me inside as well. You can take a note home to your parents about fighting. The rest of you head on home, now."

"But, Mr Cartwright, Joe threw the first punch. Iffin yer don't believe me, ask the others," said Michael in a panic, knowing he would be in real trouble coming home with a note from the teacher.

"Is that true?" Asked Adam, turning to the rest of the children who remained silent." Mitch?" he asked again.

"It's true Ad...I mean, Mr. Cartwright, but Michael, pro... prov..."

"Provoked him?" finished Adam. "How, Mitch?"

Mitch looked at Adam, silently pleading with him about the social repercussions of being a snitch. His best friend's backside was on the line, and he sure would like to see Michael get his comeuppance, but snitching wasn't going to solve any ones problems. As far as he was concerned Joe and he would only get a double dose of Michael's nasty revenge, along with anyone else who would take his side. No, snitching was pretty much frowned upon. "He was just saying stuff, got Joe mad; that's all."

"Michael, what were you teasing Joe about?"

"I weren't teasing; I was joshing; Joe can't take a joke. I'll apologize first thing in the morning, Mr Cartwright, honest. But I gotta get home, my pa will skin me alive iffin I'm late doing my after school chores and I'll get a double dose for fightin, iffin you write that note... Sir."

Adam figured Michael must have said something especially nasty in order for Joe to lose his cool. He had been watching Michael all week, and though he never caught him saying anything downright mean spirited, it was obvious he rubbed the kids the wrong way. The child was constantly showing off and seeking attention. He hoped over the next two weeks, he could figure out what the boy's problem was, however he couldn't let his behaviour go unpunished.

"Very well Michael, there will be no note, but on top of your homework tonight I want you to write; I will not tease my classmates, one hundred times. You will have that finished and handed in to me by recess tomorrow. Do you understand?"

Michael paled, he hated writing more than a lickin', Mr Cartwright was sure ta figure out he was just a hopeless writer. He couldn't ask his sister to help on this either; not like all the other writing assignments he'd had; she would tell his Ma or Pa about the having to write lines. They'd know for sure he'd been bad in school. "Okay, Mr Cartwright, I'll try," he said honestly, a tear almost forming.

Adam frowned a little; surprised at the response of the usual tough boy in front of him."Yes well good. Now all you take off home, I won't tell you a third time!" ordered Adam.

"Yes, sir," chorused the children as they bolted for the school gates.

By the time Adam got home he was tired and irritated with Joe. He'd asked him to stay behind and Joe had taken off. Adam dropped by the lake to see if he'd gone off sulking there, when he didn't find him there he went on home, thinking if the kid had run off, they didn't have much light left to go looking for him. However, he was relieved to find his pony in the stall, which meant at least he was home safe and sound...for now.

Once he'd put Sport up, he marched into the house, ready to haul Joe out to the barn and give him a hiding. He walked in to find Hoss and Ben sitting at the table.

"Good Adam, you're home, Hop Sing is about ready to serve up," said Ben.

"Where's Joe?" asked Adam.

Ben scowled, "Adam, please sit down we want to start supper; and then we'll talk."

"Pa, that boy," said Adam pointing his finger at his father

"Adam, point your finger somewhere else and sit. You can rant better on a full stomach. I know I'll listen better on one too."

Adam huffed, but did as he was asked. He hung up his coat and sat at the other end of the table. Ben said grace, before they passed each other dishes and served themselves a mountain of food.

Adam took a drink of water, and then waited for his father to swallow his first mouthful of food. "Pa, Little Joe, got into a fight at school today and then... "

"I know, Adam. He had a fight with a boy name Michael. The boy was teasing him about being the teacher's favourite it seems. "

"Well Joe can't just up and smack another kid for that Pa, and then he... "

"No, he can't and he can't run away from you when you gave him a direct order either. He told me everything when he got home. And I've handled it. You are welcome to add any punishment you see fit, tomorrow. We had a very necessary discussion in the barn.. He is also restricted to his room for the next two nights. Hop Sing took him up a tray just an hour ago. Finish your meal and then go up and speak to him."

"Is he alright? I searched every one of his favourite spots on the way home. I was worried sick when I didn't find him."

"I know you were worried, and sometimes your worry turns into anger, so just relax, Joe is fine, and you need to eat."

Adam nodded, actually appreciating his father's insights. He did need to calm down before talking to Joe.

Joe on the other hand, had no intention of speaking to Adam tonight. Heck, he had no intention of ever speaking to him again. Joe had other plans too. Adam embarrassed him in front of his classmates, and so he would do the same. He'd already put part A of his plan into action. Hop Sing had delivered his tray of food and put away the boy's clean laundry, which included a fresh shirt and black pants for Adam. Little Joe waited for Hop Sing to come out of Adam's room where he would have laid out Adams fresh clothes for tomorrow. The rest would be easy … he hoped.

Adam walked up the hallway to Joe's room, and knocked gently before entering. "Little Joe?"

When he got no answer he walked and found his little brother fast asleep laying on his belly, his night shirt ruffled and halfway up his back. He noticed his baby brothers still lightly red bottom and felt a little guilty. His father could have used his belt on Joe. Adam knew that Ben only used his belt in serious matters, predominately when Joe had done something so dangerous he could have been hurt. And though he believed Joe needed a reminder about the no fighting rule and behaving at school, he figured his father's punishment was well and truly enough for the youngster. It was obvious that Pa had got his message across. He would tell Joe in the morning that all was over and done with and that they could all start a fresh… he hoped.

~oOo~

Adam walked into his room, intending to work a little more on the drawings and plans he'd had for the extension of the ranch house. They had completed phase one of the plans, and were working on single bedrooms for Hoss and Joe and a big bath and laundry house for Hop Sing. Speaking of which, he noticed Hop Sing had laid fresh clothes out for the morning over the back of his desk chair, though the shirt had fallen off. He straightened the freshly pressed shirt back up and decided that the plans could wait another night. He closed his drawing folio and carried it to his bed. There, he laid back kicked off his boots and skimmed through the sketches . He paused a moment at some of his old drawings amongst the pile of rough sketches. He picked up one of a young girl, seated, dressed like an Elizabethan angel; Katherine. He remembered doing the sketch not long after he'd returned from Elk. Drawing had kept him busy during the recuperation from his injuries and helped re-call some of the incidents of that night near five years ago. Over the years, he would often look at the sketches of the landscapes of Elk and the young girl he' had met there; remembering their picnics and talk of their aspirations. Adam often thought of her and wondered if she became the great actress she'd aspired to. He soon fell asleep with those reflections running through his mind.

~oOo~

Adam grimaced at Joe, as he arrived at the school yards hitching post and noticed him talking with his friends. He had wanted to talk to him that morning at breakfast. However he'd woken up late and by the time he dressed and arrived into the big room he found that Joe had already left for school. Thinking he might catch his younger brother, he headed off, only taking the time to quickly down a cup of coffee as he strode out the door. Now seeing his brother with his friends he decided that the talk would best wait till after school. However he would be watching Michael closely over the day and would have another little chat with him during the morning recess when the boy was to stay and hand in his lines.

As Adam strode passed the group of youngsters the previous chatter abruptly stopped, and so did Adam. "Morning boys," he greeted.

"Morning, Mr Cartwright," chorused the group respectively, and then said nothing more.

All eyes seemed to be on Adam, except for Joe's. Adam was sure they were up to something.
"Morning Joe, didn't see you at breakfast?"

Joe lifted his eyes and stared at his brother, but did not answer. The uncomfortable silence between the two grew, until the point Mitch couldn't stand it anymore.

"Well, Mr. Cartwright Joe was hoping to catch up with Michael, and you know... tell him he was sorry and all, for losing his temper yesterday."

Adam looked at Joe. "That was very mature of you Joe, well done. When Michael get's here and you've done that, can you send him inside to see me. "

When Joe didn't respond Adam glared, "Joe, will you tell him for me, please?" asked Adam now getting annoyed at his younger brothers sulking.

Joe nodded.

"Joseph, answer me please, I won't ask again."

Joe shot his head up. It wouldn't be a good idea to get into more trouble, well at least not before he's been able to deliver his revenge, he thought. "Yes, Sir, Mr Cartwright."

Joe was obviously going to play it that way, thought Adam. Joe wouldn't sulk for long, though, he never could. Adam was confident that he would cheer up once the day got further along and he'd had more time with his friends. So Adam ignored the child's petulant stance turned and walked towards the school house. However, he didn't hear the snickers from the group of boys, as he passed two little girl skipping rope and chanting.

"Oh Boy Joe, you were lucky he didn't catch you out, then."

"Yeah, I was pretty careful, I only sliced one seam. I was afraid he'd discover part of my plan at breakfast; once he sat down. The ride over here has made it a little worse, but there's more to come. I'm gonna need a bit of help, though if the rest of it is going to work so he doesn't suspect me."

Just then Michael turned up, worrying his bottom lip as he approached the group of boys.

"Cartwright?" he called. "I… ah wanna…"

"Michael, I gotta say sorry... I mean I wanna say sorry. I shouldn't have lost my temper with you," apologised Joe.

"Yeah well you were lucky I never got the first punch in or else you..."

"Hey!" said Mitch, "Just take the fella's apology, don't need yer ta go braggin' anymore. Besides, Mr Cartwright wants ta see you before he rings the bell. You should probably do that now."

"Oh what for?" asked Michael.

"Probably wants ta see ya started them lines," chanted another boy.

"Well I haven't, so there! I ain't going in and..."

"Wait!" said Joe," iffin you help us, you may not have to finish them lines," smirked Joe.

Michael thought about it for a moment... then his eyes lit up at the prospect of not losing his recess or the torturous punishment of writing lines. "Sure Joe, so what have you got planned?"

"Just a little revenge of my own. Okay, now lean in and listen..."

~oOo~

Adam had written the morning's arithmetic lesson on the blackboard the night before and let the children work quietly on the problems for just over an hour, when suddenly Michael angrily screwed up a piece of paper, and threw it on the floor.

Adam frowned, "Pick that up Michael, and put it the pot belly; If you having trouble with the sums, put your hand up and I will come and help."

"Weren't havin' trouble with the sums, Mr Cartwright, just made one mistake that's all," he said, walking towards the pot belly stove in the far corner of the classroom. He opened the small door and poked his paper into the low burning fire there. While there he also, pulled out the black pepper Joe had given him and sprinkled it on the top, then quickly returned to his seat.

Within minutes the pepper got hot and started popping, slightly, sending minute particles into the air. Once they built up, the students, one by one, started to sneeze. It soon escalated to the point that Adam got out of his seat. He walked down the far row of desks to investigate. As he passed the pot belly, he noticed the tiny sparks and pops from the sprinkled pepper, but not before most of the class seemed to start to uncontrollably sneeze. The noise was getting louder by the second. An especially loud and ferocious sneeze came from little Emily Wall; her enormous 'Archooo', sent a spray of saliva into the back of Travis Johnston's head.

From that moment on everything appeared to happen in slow motion; one disaster after another. Adam leaned over to inspect the top of the wood stove, which was Mitch's cue to stand up and tear the long piece of canvas Joe had given him. The resounding rip coincided with one of Mitch's own sneezers, as well as one of Adams.

Adam suddenly felt the back of his britches part, and gasped in horror as he realized what the ripping sound meant. The sound seemed somewhat delayed, perhaps that was because the sound echoed above the children's constant sneezing. He craned his head back to inspect the seam of his pants, before realizing Travis Johnston's had jumped from his seat, swivelled and was almost running backwards towards the hot stove, as he wiped the disgusting remnants of Emily's saliva, and he hoped not "snot" from the back of his neck. Adam stiffened slightly at the child's curses to his classmate and was ready to chastise the boy when saw that he was headed in his direction. He quickly moved forward as Travis moved backward. The collision buckled Adams knees and sent him to the floor. He quickly grabbed Travis, breaking the child's fall, with his own body. Once more amongst all the commotion, Mitch stood up and tore another strip from the canvas, then quickly hid it in his desk.

By this time most of the children were either laughing or l sneezing or both. Adam hoped it wasn't because they had seen the rip in his pants. He was sure it was now a decent size, as the cold wooden slats of the school house floor penetrated the thin cotton union suit he wore underneath his jeans.

If Adam didn't think things could get worse, he should have recalled his mathematical tutorials about ironic paradox's and 'sods law'; Sod's second law to be exact; sooner or later, the worst possible set of circumstances is bound to occur one way or another. What could have been worse for a grown man with his pants spilt lying on the floor, surrounded by a riot; children either laughing hysterically or arguing about the bad manners of sneezing in each other's face?

"Adam Cartwright? That you on the floor there?" asked Sheriff Roy Coffee, as he came in the through the door.

Silence immediately reigned around the classroom, except for the occasional sneeze some of the smaller children expelled unashamedly from their faces. Adam looked around Travis's little chubby body to see Roy, standing in the isle with a young prim looking woman staring wide eyed at him and the children. That could be worse, thought Adam.

"Adam, this is Miss Abigail Jones. She's applied for the new teaching position. I thought it might be a good idea for her to see the school..." said Roy, then leant' over and whispered, "before she made her decision."

Adam pinched the bridge of his nose. This was all he needed. The women was probably going to do an about face and walk out of here after seeing, utter chaos, and even worse if he was to stand up and reveal his true predicament.

Abigail stepped forward, "Mr Cartwright, I believe," she said and held out her hand.

Adam stood up, extended his hand, and heard some of the children snigger behind him. He quickly pulled his hand back and used it to cover the tear in his pants.

Abigail smiled at the handsome face, then turned around and surveyed the room. Adam took the opportunity to tug his shirt out from the waist of his pants and use the tail to cover his.

"Right!" said Abigail. "You older children take the younger ones outside."

The children immediately swung into action. One little boy stopped as he passed Adam and tugged on his shirt tail. "Mithsta Carthwhite, you gotta a big hole in ya britches," he tried to whisper.

Adam patted the tyke on his head, "Thank you James, now go with the others and wash your face," said Adam wishing he could splash some water on his own face to take out the heat of his embarrassment.

Before Joe could leave the room, Abigail grabbed him, "No, not you, or you or you," she said pointing to Mitch and Michael, you three stay put."

Roy and Adam stood in a quandary of confusion, and a lot of awe, as they watched the young tall woman, pretty some might say, well in her own way, take charge of the situation. She walked over to the windows and opened them up, letting in a fresh breeze to clear the air. She then walked back to the three boys, who were starting to look rather nervous. Abigail walked passed Joe first and looked him square in the eye. Joe held her gaze for a millisecond before his eyes went to the floor. Next was Mitch; she followed his nervous fingers as he traced the lid of his desk then gripped it, like it might pop up revealing a deranged jack in the box. Michael immediately put his hands in his pockets as the young woman swivelled and announced. "The old pepper on the hot stove plate prank! Really boys, it's an old one. Perhaps, you might know something about that?" she said turning to Mitch, "What is your name, young man?"

"Mitchell, ma'am."

"Mitchell," she repeated, as lifted the top of his desk, pulled out the ripped canvas rag, and held, it up. She frowned and looked at it. Then remembering what the little boy James had said to Adam on the way out, surmised it had something to do with Adam Cartwright's predicament. She handed it to Adam. "Perhaps there was more than one prank planned for today," she said with a slight smile. Abigail turned to Michael, who shuffled nervously at her scrutiny. "Is this your work, ahhh...?"

"Michael, ma'am."

"Is this your work, Michael? she asked, as she pointed to the arithmetic sheet lying on his desk.

"Yes, ma'am."

"Could I look at it please?"

Michael pulled his hands out of his pocket and handed Abigail Jones his worksheet. Roy and Adam noticed the blacked pads on his fingers, which left smudges on the half completed worksheet. Abigail looked at it then turned it around and showed tell tale the evidence to the small audience now transfixed on the intuitive woman. "Your answers are correct Michael. You are good at math, I see."

"Yes Ma'am," said Michael, not realising that he's been caught red handed with the evidence now smudged over his arithmetic answers. "Just have trouble with my 9 and 6's; I get them mixed up sometimes, not in my head; just when I'm writin them down. "

"Do you have the same problems with you d's and b's?"

"Yes sometimes," admitted Michael.

"What about your p's and q's?"

"Yes ma'am," said Michael then dropped his head in shame.

"Don't be ashamed of that Michael, many children have that issue; in actual fact there is a very special study being undertaken by a scientist called Oswald Berkhan in Germany. It seems I may have some extra reading to do, but I'm sure we can work on that problem together."

"You mean you're going to take the job?" asked Adam, feeling relieved.

"Yes; It seems, Mr. Cartwright," she smiled, "that I am very much needed here."

"Oh you are, you are." assured Adam.

The young woman blushed at Adam obvious joy at her new position. "Why thank you Mr Cartwright, however, I will let you deal with these boys and finish off the day. Sheriff Coffee, will you escort me back to town please? I need to arrange room and board and sign the contracts; if everyone else is happy, that is."

"Sure ma'am and welcome." said Roy.

Roy he held out his hand to escort her out when she stopped, and turned to the three boys once more, "I suggest you three have a bit of explaining to do to your teacher."

"But I didn't do anything," protested Joe.

"I think that thee protest too much, young man. It is obvious, that you sir, are the brains of this little caper," she declared. "What is your name, young man," she asked Joe.

"Joseph, ma'am; Joseph Cartwright."

"Hmm it seems good looks and brains run in the family."

Joe smiled.

"Yes Joseph, you can smile about it all now, but I will warn you, I don't believe in using the cane like some of my contemporaries do..."

All three boys sighed with relief.

"However," she continued, staunching their joy."I have a very round, flat and smooth paddle, just perfect for applying a quick lesson about the foolishness of practical jokes played on teachers or classmates. Perhaps Mr. Cartwright would like to borrow it?"

"Oh I think my flat palm will suffice Miss Jones, but thanks for the offer."

"Please call me, Abigail," she offered, before smiling once again and going out the door with her arm locked in Roy's.

Once the couple were out of the room, Adam's courteous smile dropped from his face. "Explain"

All three boys dropped their eyes and remained silent.

"Fine, Joe, you're first. Perhaps I can loosen your tongue." Adam pulled a chair from the corner of the room and propped his leg up on it. He grabbed Joe by his collar and threw him across his knee and landed ten very hard smacks, to his little brother's backside, adding the lecture with each swat. "I don't know why or how you managed to cut my good pants so they ripped, BUT!" Swat! "How dare you attempt to belittle my position in this class room?"

"Ow,ow, ow... why; you belittled mine," yelled Joe.

"What?" said Adam as he stopped applying swats. "When?"

"Yesterday, you called me Little Joe, and swatted me like a little kid; like your little brother, in front of all my friends."

"Joe you were fighting. You were angry and about to lose your temper even more. I didn't mean to belittle you; just stop you from doing something you'd regret later. I'm sorry, if I forgot for a moment that you just weren't any other student, but my little brother, whom I know very well. If you had bothered to wait around for me, I would have gotten you to tell me the whole story."

"No you wouldn't you woulda just embarrassed me again."

"Joe what would your other teachers have done, had they caught you fighting in the school yard?"

"With Mr Phillips...Well...we would have gotten a canning, after school."

"Right. So you planned this little prank of revenge because I treated you like my little brother instead of one the class?"

"Yes!"

Adam started swatting again. Quick sharp slaps were applied rhythmically until Joe was sobbing over his big brothers lap.

"Why ... ya ... doing... that...more?" asked Joe, sobbing.

Adam stood him on his feet and gripped his shoulder as he peered into his teary eyes. "Just treating you like one of the normal everyday kids, Joe," he said and then pulled him in for a hug and let him sob into his black shirt. "I hadn't meant to embarrass you Joe, and if you had given me the chance I would have apologised for that. Pa handled the fighting and the running off and I left it at that. It makes me sad that you couldn't talk to me about it and at least hear my side of the story or show me the respect you would of any teacher. "

"I'm sorry Adam. I didn't know Roy was commin with the new teacher though. I'm real sorry about that, Adam...I mean Mr Cartwright. Joe stayed there sniffing for a couple more minutes and then remembered Mitch and Michael were still in the room watching. He pushed back, and wiped his nose on the sleeve of his shirt.

Adam grimaced and handed him a handkerchief. "Mitch you're next, you wanna explain your role in all this?"

"Just supportin' my friend ... Mr. Cartwright. Joe told me he was gonna get you back for embarrassing him, and well I know now it was kinda mean, but well we haven't had any good pranks round here since Mrs Evan's left. All I had ta do, was to make sure you heard the rip along with the other kids so they would laugh at you. I thought I did pretty well with the timing. Joe said the 'Timing was of the utmost'... whaaaaaa..."

Adam didn't wait for Mitch to dig his hole any deeper and had the boy over his lap before he could finish his sentence. He laid down ten hard wallops, the same as Joe's, to Mitch's, denim covered backside. Once the child was apologising and promising never to follow one of Joe's hair brained prank ideas again, 'especially with the new teacher, who should be working for the Pinkertons instead teaching in a little ole school in Nevada,' Adam let him up. He then pulled the crying child into his shoulder for a pat on the back, with the words, "it's done, and maybe you are right about the new school teacher; she sure figured you lot out."

Adam then turned his attention to Michael. "What I don't understand, Michael is yesterday, Joe was your worst enemy, and yet today you help him pull this prank. I thought you would have appreciated my leniency with the bullying episode. Why did you feel it necessary to embarrass me in front of the whole class?"

"I wasn't tryin so much as ta embarrass you... Mr. Cartwright. I just figured, Joe's prank sounded like a good way ta get out of those lines you was gonna have me write."

"You went to all this trouble to avoid lines?" he asked in amazement

"Well it sounded like fun too, but yes. I don't write good Mr. Cartwright, and well, I didn't want you ta find out. I rather have ya thinking I'm naughty instead of dumb."

"You are not dumb, Michel; not dumb at all. You just have some problem with writing. I figured as much when you didn't show me your lines today. However, the new teacher looks like she figured it out faster than me, so no more playing naughty when you are smart. And I have a way that will help you remember that, young man. You're next. Come here."

Michael obeyed, and was soon in a similar position to his classmates. Adam started to administer the same ten swats to his backside, though the boy was well and truly wailing by the fifth. Adam figured most of it was more relief than anything; relief that his ugly secret was out and it wasn't as bad as he imagined and his low self esteem had conjured.. With that in mind Adam applied the last five swats a little softer, though was able to make them sound just as thunderous . He let the boy up and pulled his sobbing form to him. "You're a good kid, stop pretending you're not." Michael nodded and wiped the tears away as soon as he could catch his breath. He looked up at Adam and smiled. "Good news is you've got a couple of new buddy's here." added Adam.

"Yeah", chorused Joe and Mitch.

Joe was especially relieved to have something in common with the boy. He would have never guessed that he had trouble writing and spelling just like him. Joe now understood why Michael was so jealous of Adam's extra attention over the last week. And truth was Adam's persistence and extra help had really improved his skills.

"Right," said Adam, "Michael and Mitchell, you two get this classroom back in shape, while I supervise the extra recess your classmates are about to have. Joe, you head over to the mercantile and get me a new pair of pants. Sam Potter knows my size. Tell him to put in on my account. You can work of the cost of them over the next few weeks with the extra chores I have planned for you."

All three boys groaned, as Adam left the classroom, tugging on his shirt tail, making sure it was long enough to cover the spilt in his pants and keep the flowing breeze out.

End Flashback...

"Gosh Dad, Uncle Joe was sure naughty. Seems ta me kids haven't changed that much or teachers. " said Alex giggling. "Miss Jones was sure smart. "She was and is, so I hope you children look after her well and don't try any embarrassing pranks on her."

"Hmmm..." said Alexandra as shuffled further down under the blankets.

"Alexandra, you haven't done..."

"Gee Dad, doesn't that statue thing count even in school with kids?"

"Maybe, but if I hear of any wild pranks..."

"Shhh, Dad, I'm tired now and it's getting real late, I better get some sleep."

"Yes you better," said Adam as he kissed her on the nose, "I hope you have learnt something from Joe's story."

"Oh I did dad. Now I know what Miss Abigail means when says it was a very interesting day when she met the Cartwrights; she said she was unexpectedly exposed to their true charm!"

Adam laughed, "Perhaps, I want you to go to sleep now."

"Okay dad, I'll try. Can you leave the light on jist for a bit, until I'm asleep?"

"Yep, I'll be back."

Adam got up and headed for the door. As he came to the dresser, he paused and stacked another log on the model Ranch house.

"What's that one for, daddy?'

"That's for, being doing the right thing with Miss Jones, and being my best shadow all week."

"Even though I didn't tell on Willy an all."

"Yes, that's was Willy' bad choice not to own up, but sometimes you need to tell, even when someone's going to get into big trouble."

"Like iffin someone's gonna get hurt or something dangerous could happen?"

"That's right. Now go to sleep, no more talk. You'd talk the leg of a chair, missy."

Alexandra giggled. "Love yer daddy."

"Love you too; by infinity."

"By infinity," yawned Alexandra as Adam quietly left the room.

Adam walked downstairs, back into the quiet and the warmth of the big room. The fire had burnt low and he was turning down the lamps when Joe walked out of the kitchen. "Joe, I thought you were going to bed."

"I am; just was a little peckish, still. Got me a warm milk."

"And a cookie, I see."

"Yeah, Hop Sing's being making batches all week for the trail drive. They're best when they're fresh, though," smirked Joe sheepishly, knowing that Hop sing wouldn't appreciate the late night theft.

"They are, you got another one?" asked Adam, grinning cheekily at his younger brother.

"Sure here." Joe threw a cookie and Adam caught it.

Suddenly there was a knock at the door. Adam shoved the whole cookie into his mouth, before heading to the door with a puzzled look on his face. He hoped it was the Zeke or one of the other hands from out at the range. It was round up season, and that meant cattle rustlers were also on the prowl, trying to pick up yearlings and calf's that hadn't been branded as yet, and some that had.

He was relieved to find that wasn't one of the men. However his relief was short lived, when the expression Hiram Knoble's face became came clearer in the light.

"Hiram, what… its late..."

"I know Adam, but this couldn't wait, and I wanted to deliver it personally. It's another wire from San Francisco. "

"Hiram, please come in. Joe, get Hiram some coffee will you."

"Sure," said Joe, noting the seriousness of Adams voice and the worry on Hiram's face.

Hiram handed the note to Adam and stood quietly by the big fire as Adam, paced in front of him reading it.

Overland Telegraph Company...

To: Adam Cartwright

Ponderosa Nevada.

Katherine's condition deteriorating stop Come immediately stop Requesting appeal bought forward stop Marriage certificate tabled stop Adam. S. Cartwright to Katherine. W. DeFoe stop 1851. To be authenticated stop

Drew Kennedy

San Francisco

TBC Chapter 3.

A.N. Sorry this is late, but I got carried away with Joe's story. Life is very hectic at the moment, but I hope to have chapter 3 up soon. Big thanks again to Lajoci for the edits and advice with these two chapters.