Wildflower

By Cindy

Margaret Greene, known as Maggie by her closest friends, was the wealthiest woman in Eagle Station. She owned the largest ranch in Nevada, Ben Cartwright the second largest. She had every man lusting over her, for she was a very beautiful woman. Her complexion was one of ivory, she had a curvaceous body, and eyes the color of jade. But she had no interest in marrying again. She has lost her husband in the Mexican War, and she vowed she'd never have her heart broken again. So she learned all she could about ranching. She and her daughter Tess were caring for the plantation alone. Over the years, she had become a woman of independent means, and she wouldn't stand for any man or anyone else for that matter trying to tell her how to handle her affairs.

Today she wore her best dress made of fine blue linen with the golden broach her husband had bought her for their second anniversary. Her long raven hair was pulled loosely away from her face and she allowed it to flow softly down her back.

"Good afternoon, Margaret," said Ben, tipping his hat.

"Hello Ben," she answered, while staring down the road.

"You expecting someone on the late coach?" he asked.

"As a matter of fact I am my niece Rosemary. My brother-in-law has died. He sent me a telegram awhile back asking if I'd care for her once he passed." She kept her eyes fixed on the road as if she were to glance away for a second she would surely miss the stagecoach.

"I'm sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. I know Rosemary will be in the best care with you and Tess." Margaret gave him a slight smile. "I better get going if I'm going to make it back in time for supper. Nice seeing you," he said. Just as he was about to walk away, the stagecoach came barreling towards them.

"Wait Ben, I'd really like you to meet her. She's come all the way from Boston." She said, almost in a pleading voice. She seemed a bit nervous about seeing her young niece. Ben being a true friend smiled and agreed to stay.

"All right, I'd love to."

The stagecoach came to a halt in front of Jack Wolfe's hotel. He was outside quick as a minute, eager to welcome the newcomers and hoping they would be staying at his grand establishment. He put on his best smile, which was quite charming if you didn't know what a vulture he really was.

The driver looked haggard. He jumped down and opened the door to the carriage. A plump, middle-aged gentleman stepped out first. As he stepped down, the entire carriage rose about two inches in height, as it released the burden it had been carrying. Jack saw that the man was alone and quickly showed him the way to his hotel. The man smiled wide when he saw one of Jack's girls standing in the entrance way. She gave him a friendly grin, and he didn't waste anytime following Jack inside. Ben shook his head in disgust. Next a young woman stepped down carrying a small boy. She was met with embraces from her husband. He scooped up the child and covered him in kisses. The last passenger was Rosemary. Ben was quite surprised. He was expecting to see a little girl, but instead she was quite grown up. She was petite, her auburn hair was up in a bun, and she wore a low-cut green velvet dress. Her face was painted and the red lipstick she wore made her pouting lips stand out. Margaret was totally humiliated. She now wished she hadn't asked Ben to stay.

"Hi, are you Aunt Margaret?" asked Rosemary, wearing a sweet smile.

"Uh, yes, yes I am."

Ben covered his mouth with his gloved right hand, trying to hide his grin. He knew how embarrassing this was for Margaret. She always bragged how all her family from the east was brought up to be fine young ladies and gentlemen. She surely had to eat her own words at this moment. The girl looked like one of Jack's painted ladies and the dress, it was so revealing. Ben cleared his throat. Margaret twisted around and saw the expression on his face, and then turned three shades of red.

"Uh, oh Ben, I'm sorry. Uh, this is Rosemary," she said, without actually looking him in the eyes. "Rosemary, this is Mr. Ben Cartwright."

"Hello Rosemary, welcome to Eagle Station." Ben tipped his hat. Rosemary's blue eyes lit up when she looked at Ben.

"Well hello, Ben was it? It's a great pleasure meeting you.” She held out her hand to him and batted her eyes in a flirtatious manner. “You can call me Rose. That's what most folk call me." Ben didn’t give her the satisfaction of acknowledging her forward ways. She let out a huff and dropped her arm to her side. Margaret was mortified.

"Well, I really have to be getting back home. We'll have to have you all for dinner one evening," he said, while climbing into the buck board.

“Y-yes, that sounds lovely,” said Margaret. Ben smiled and then slapped the reins against the horse’s rump and headed out of town. Margaret didn’t waste any time turning her attention to her niece. “Young lady, it is Mr. Cartwright to you. Now get in the carriage. Driver, would you please hurry up with those bags? I’m in a hurry,” she said, with an edge to her voice. She kept scanning her eyes in both directions, hoping no one she knew noticed her. She wanted to get out of town as quickly as possible. The driver helped her place the suitcases in the back of the carriage. She stepped up and sat next to her niece. Just as she was about to pull out, Jack Wolfe appeared in the doorway of his hotel. A devilish smile appeared.

“My goodness Margaret, who is this beautiful young woman you have here?” he asked, walking toward the carriage. He took off his hat and bowed to Rosemary. She responded quickly from the compliment, flashing him a full smile. She was about to speak, but Margaret beat her to it.

“None of your business,” she said, harshly. “Walk on.” She snapped the reins a little harder than she meant to, and the horses jerked forward into a trot. Margaret was seething. She knew exactly what Jack Wolfe was thinking, and it made her sick inside.

If her sister Amy could see how her daughter turned out, she’d be devastated. She had died when Rosemary was just four years old. The doctor said it was cholera that killed her. How Rosemary and Frank, her brother-in-law, didn’t come down with it, she’ll never know. Now, for the past eleven years, Frank had tried to be both mother and father to her with the last four years being ill with a lung disease. Margaret couldn’t believe Frank had allowed Rosemary to dress in this fashion. It could have been he was too sick to notice. One thing she did know is Amy would have never allowed her daughter to step even a big toe out the door, looking the way she did. She glanced over at her niece.

“We’ll have to buy you some new clothes.” Rosemary looked down at her dress.

“What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?” she asked.

“It’s not a proper dress for a young lady.”

“But this is what all the girls are wearing back east,” she said whined.

“Well, you’re not back east any longer. I will not have you dressing like that, and that makeup, it’s coming off as well. You’re much too young to be wearing cosmetics,” she stated.

“I’m fifteen! All the girls my age wear it.”

“Maybe they do, but you will not,” she stated flatly.

“But that’s not fair! I’ve been dressing like this and wearing makeup since I was thirteen, you can’t just take it away,” Rosemary said curtly. Margaret quickly glanced at her niece.

“Your mother would have been so upset if she knew how your father permitted you to go around town, looking the way you do. I won’t allow it. That’s the end of this conversation. I’m sure Tess will have something more appropriate you can wear until I can get you some decent clothes of your own.” Margaret kept her head held high and her eyes on the road ahead. Rosemary opened her mouth to retort but closed it as fast when she saw the expression on her aunt’s face. She sat back in the seat, arms crossed, and her lips pouting. She hadn’t even been here an hour and already she was being bossed around. Who did her aunt think she was? Her Pa had always let her do as she pleased, and she wasn’t about to let Aunt Margaret tell her what she could and couldn’t do. They rode the rest of the way in silence.

****************************************************

Tess had stayed home because one of the horses was due to give birth at any day. She was just coming out of the barn when her mother pulled up into the yard. Her mouth fell open when she saw her cousin.

“Rosemary, is that you?” she asked, strolling towards the carriage. Rosemary’s face brightened when she saw Tess. When she stood, it took Tess by surprise and she blushed. She glanced at her mother and could see right off that she wasn’t a bit pleased.

“Cousin Tess!” yelled Rosemary in excitement. She jumped down to the ground and embraced her. “It’s wonderful to see you.” Tess was lost for words. The last time she had seen her cousin, she was still wearing her hair in pigtails. But now, she had transformed from a child into what looked like a full grown woman. She felt uneasy for she and Rosemary were the same age, Rosemary looked at least five years older.

“It’s good to have you with us,” said Tess, once she found her voice. She helped her bring her belongings into the house. Margaret had asked her to show Rosemary to her room, while she checked on the chicken she had left in the oven. Rosemary admired her surroundings as she strolled through the living room area towards the stair case.

“You have such a lovely home, Tess. Pa and I lived in such a small, cramped two bedroom house, but this place is huge. You must get lost trying to find your way,” she said, taking everything in.

“It won’t seem that big once you find your way around. Well, here’s your room,” said Tess, pushing the door open and stepping inside. Rosemary’s eyes bugged out.

“It’s, it’s beautiful,” she said with glee. She sat the suitcase down next to the bed. There were white lace curtains in the windows, the bed was covered in a pink bedspread with white daisies, and there were two oak dressers, one with a vanity. “Oh Tess, it’s wonderful.” She twirled around in circles and then allowed herself to fall on top of the bed. Tess just watched her cousin in amazement. Rosemary sat up and noticed how Tess was staring at her. “Is there anything wrong?”

“Oh, uh, n, no. It’s just that you look so grown up,” stammered Tess.

“Well, I am fifteen.” She strolled toward the vanity and gazed at her own reflection. She smiled. She played with her hair until she was satisfied, and then opened the small round purse she had wrapped around her wrist. She pulled out a tube of lipstick and carefully applied it to her lips. She kissed the air before turning around. “Would you like some?” she asked, extending her arm out towards Tess with the lipstick in her hand.

“I, I best not.”

“It sure would look pretty on you. The color would bring out your blue eyes. Why don’t you try some just for fun?” Secretly Tess wanted to but was afraid. If her ma caught her, she would be in trouble. Rosemary sensed her hesitation.

“If you’re worried about your ma, don’t be. It’s not like you’re wearing it for real. Wouldn’t you like to see what you look like with it on?”

“Yes, but if Ma found out, she would be furious,” confessed Tess, embarrassed for Rosemary to know that she wasn’t allowed to wear makeup.

“I’ll keep watch, and if I hear her coming, I’ll tell you and then you can wipe it off real quick. She’d never know,” she enticed, holding out the lipstick in Tess’ direction.

“You promise to keep your eyes and ears open for Ma?” Rosemary nodded. Tess took the tube and slowly walked to the mirror, and then ever so slowly, she glided the color over her lips. Afterwards, she stood back and stared at her reflection. She smiled slightly. She thought it made her look older. She wondered what Hoss would think.

“Look at you Tess, you’re beautiful,” complimented Rosemary.

“You really think so?” asked Tess, glancing into the mirror again.

“Any man would turn his head if he saw you coming down the street that’s for sure. Speaking of men, what do you know about Mr. Cartwright?” asked Rosemary.

“You know him?” asked Tess, surprised.

“He was with Aunt Margaret when I got off the stage.”

“Oh, well we’re really good friends with him and his family,” said Tess, admiring herself once more in the mirror.

“So, he’s married?” asked Rosemary.

“He was, but his wife Marie, was killed when she fell off a horse a few years back. It was just awful. It’s just him and his three sons now,” explained Tess. “They’re such a nice family.”

“I would love to become better acquainted with them,” said Rosemary, grinning.

They were so wrapped up in talking that they didn’t hear Margaret coming down the hall. Margaret stood in the doorway with her arms crossed and a frown on her face.

“What’s going on in here?” she suddenly asked, causing Tess to jump out of her skin. She quickly wiped her mouth with the sleeve of her dress before turning around. Unfortunately, it had defeated the purpose, for the bright red color was still lingering on her lips. “What have you two been doing?”

“Nothing Ma, Rosemary was just telling me all about Boston,” she lied.

“Is that so? Did she also tell you about how all the girls back east wear lipstick?” Tess froze. She lifted her hand to her mouth, forgetting about the lipstick on her sleeve.

“Tess Margaret Greene, is that lipstick you have on your sleeve?” she asked, with anger in her voice. She grabbed Tess’ arm and saw the pitiful job she had done trying to get rid of the makeup. “Young lady, you know the rules in this household, don’t you?”

“Yes ma’am,” answered Tess, looking down at her feet.

“Tell me then, why do I see lipstick smeared all over this sleeve and your face?” she asked, still holding onto Tess’ arm.

“Ma, I was only fooling around. I know I can’t wear it for real, I just wanted to see what it looked like.”

“I don’t want you wearing it at all, for real or otherwise, is that understood?” Tess nodded her head up and down. “And you better hope I can get this off this sleeve. Take off the dress; I need to let it soak for a while.” Tess quickly obeyed. Margaret then turned her attention toward her niece. “Young lady, I’m afraid we’re not getting started on the right foot. I have already told you how I felt about this. I won’t have you coming into my home and trying to get my daughter to disobey me. Where is it? Where’s the makeup? I want it,” she said, holding out her hand.

“But we, I, you can’t do this!” yelled Rosemary. Margaret stood her ground.

“You best give it to me. I have a strap, and just ask Tess, I’m not afraid of using it. Give me the makeup now,” she ordered. Rosemary just stared at her aunt with her mouth agape. “NOW!” She stomped to the dresser and took the lipstick from her bag. She turned and gave it to her aunt. “I want the rest of it.” By the expression on her face, Rosemary was afraid to continue to push the subject. She placed her suitcase on the bed, opened it, and pulled out a small flowered bag that was stuffed with all the ingredients that aided in her looking like a woman. She placed it in Margaret’s outstretched hand, and then quickly turned away.

“Tess, find a dress Rosemary can wear, and Rosemary, I expect to see you in it when you come down for supper. I want you both to scrub your faces clean. I don’t want to see a trace of makeup, you hear me?” she asked in a stern voice.

“Yes Ma.”

“Afterwards, you girls come on downstairs and help me with supper.” At that, she turned on her heels and left the room carrying Tess’ dress in her arms. She could be heard mumbling down the hall. It took a lot for her to lose her temper, but when she did, a person best keep quiet and move quickly.

“Sorry about all that,” said Tess, embarrassed. She pulled out a yellow dress from her closet and tried handed it to Rosemary. She took one look at it and rolled her eyes. In her mind, it was a dress for a child, not a woman. “You better put it on like Ma asked you to. She might not be very big, but when she takes a strap to you, it feels just as bad as when Pa used to use it on me.” Rosemary snatched it from her and let out a sigh.

“Why is Aunt Margaret so strict?” she asked, while slipping the dress over her head.

“I guess it’s because she didn’t have too much of a childhood herself. She had to be responsible for her younger brothers and sisters while she just a young girl. It forced her to grow up real fast. Then she married as soon as her youngest sister got old enough and right off she became pregnant with me. She says she doesn’t want that kind of life for me. She’s told me she wants me to enjoy my childhood so when I think back once I’m grown, I’ll have happy memories.”

“Yes, but you’re a woman now. You’re my age. Don’t you ever want to dress like I do?” asked Rosemary.

“Sometimes, but I also still enjoy being just a girl. Ma says when I turn eighteen; she’ll allow me to start wearing my hair up like yours and start wearing makeup. Until then, I think I’ll enjoy just being a kid,” she said, zipping up her blue dress.

Rosemary remained silent as she listened to Tess. Never remembering her mother it was hard for her to understand how Tess could give up things she wanted just to please her ma. Well, she wasn’t going to give up the things she loves just to please her aunt. The yellow dress fit her perfectly, but she hated it. They washed their faces clean. Rosemary was such a beautiful girl without all that greasepaint. She looked like the young girl she really was. They left the room and found their way to the kitchen. When Margaret saw the girls, a warm smile crept across her face. She cupped her hand under Rosemary’s chin.

“You’re too beautiful to keep it hid underneath all that makeup,” she said. “All right girls, I need someone to peel potatoes, and another to snap some green beans.”

************************************

Hop Sing came storming from the kitchen speaking Chinese, when he heard Ben coming through the front door.

“Mr. Cartlight you late. Food almost ruined. You come eat, now,” he demanded. The boys quickly walked to the table and sat down. They didn’t want to get Hop Sing anymore riled up than he already was. Adam raised one eyebrow at his father. Being at the table on time for meals had always been a strict rule of Ben’s and now here he was the one being late.

“So Pa, what kept you?” asked Adam, finding it amusing questioning his father about his whereabouts. Ben glanced at Adam and noticed all three of his sons were staring at him and expecting an answer.

“Sorry I’m late, but it couldn’t be helped. Margaret’s niece arrived in town, and she asked me to stay and meet her. Please pass the potatoes,” he said.

“Her niece? What’s she like?” asked Hoss. He took a big bite out of a chicken leg.

“Well, she’s not exactly what I expected, and I do believe Margaret was a little surprise as well.”

“What do you mean?” asked Adam.

“Let’s put it this way, she’s not the type of girl I’d want any of my sons courting,” he said. He changed the subject. “So, how was school Joseph?”

“All right,” he said, twirling his food around on his plate.

“Don’t play with your food, son.” Little Joe was the complete opposite of his older brother Hoss who ate everything put in front of him and seemed to be hungry constantly. As active as Little Joe was, he never had a big appetite, which sometimes concerned Ben. He always had to make him eat. “Adam how did you and Hoss make out today?”

“We finished breaking those mustangs today,” he said. He took a sip of his coffee. Hoss and Little Joe grinned at one another.

“You forgot to tell Pa about that stallion,” said Hoss, grinning from ear to ear. Adam flicked his brother a warning glance, but to no avail. “You should have seen him Pa.” Ben’s eyebrow’s went up.

“Oh really?”

“Yeah Pa, each time old Adam here mounted the horse, he was either sailing into the air or was landing on his behind within a matter of seconds,” giggled Little Joe.

“You think it’s so easy, then you should try it younger brother,” said Adam, flatly.

“I would if Pa would let me, and I bet I could stay on him a whole lot longer than you did,” he teased. He and Hoss laughed.

“Why don’t you two shut up,” said Adam, sarcastically, his pride being bruised. “Don’t you worry any Pa, that horse hasn’t beaten me yet, there’s always tomorrow.”

“Yeah, if you can sit in the saddle,” snickered Little Joe.

“Shut up Little Joe, or you won’t be sitting down tonight,” said Adam, in a harsh tone.

“Oh, is that a threat older brother?” Normally he would have never challenged his brother, but with Pa so near, he felt safe enough.

“Yes, it is.”

“All right you two, no quarreling please,” said Ben. Adam glanced at his pa and by the look on his face, he decided to keep what he was about to say to himself. He gave his youngest brother a hard stare.

“The first thing I want you boys to do is to head up to the north pasture and check the fencing. Last time I rode through that area I noticed some of the wood had started to rot from the winter we had,” said Ben.

Once supper was over, Adam sat by the fire reading his favorite novel, Ben was in the alcove at his desk going through the mail, and Hoss and Little Joe were playing checkers. After a while, Ben glanced at the grandfather clock and noticed it was nearly nine o’clock.

“Little Joe, it’s time you start getting ready for bed now,” he said.

“Can’t I jus finish this game Pa? I’m about to beat him.”

“Just a few minutes more, and then off to bed.” Joe smiled and made his next move. He jumped Hoss in three different places and took his king. Hoss wrinkled up his nose and scratched his head trying to figure out how his little brother always seemed to win.

“Want to play again?” asked Joe.

“Joseph, to bed,” said Ben, his voice baritone.

Reluctantly he rose and ambled his way up the stairs. Before long, everyone had snuggled in their bed for the night.

***********************************************

Margaret and Rosemary came out of the Trading Post carrying a bundle of packages. Margaret had bought Rosemary a couple of new dresses, and some new material to have a couple more made by Mrs. Covington who had her own seamstress business. She had also bought her a new pair of shoes and some under things she felt Rosemary would need, especially in this part of the country. They put the bundles in the back of the wagon, and as Margaret turned to climb aboard, she found herself face to face with Jack Wolfe. He was wearing his devilish grin.

“Good morning Margaret. It’s a lovely day, don’t you think?” he asked in a most charming way.

“What do you want?” she asked, curtly. She slipped by him and stepped up into the wagon.

“Why Margaret, I was just making conversation with a beautiful woman. Is there anything wrong with that?” he asked. She gave him a hard glare. She loathed the man, and he knew it. It brought him great satisfaction to irritate her. He cast his dark eyes toward her niece. She was wearing Tess’ yellow dress, and Margaret had made her take her hair down. She was wearing it in one long braid that reached half way down her back. With no makeup, she looked even younger than fifteen. At first he didn’t recognize her, but when she flashed him her smile, it was as if a light bulb went off in his head.

“My, my, is this the same gorgeous young lady I had the privilege of meeting yesterday?” he asked. Rosemary sat taller in her seat, blushing over the compliment he had given her.

“Excuse us Jack,” said Margaret, through gritted teeth. She picked up the reins and snapped them slightly.

“It was very nice seeing you again,” said Rosemary, as they rode by Jack.

“Turn around in your seat,” ordered Margaret. “I want you to stay away from that man.”

“But why, he seems to be so nice.”

“First impressions can be deceiving. Just keep away from away from him, understand?”

“Yes ma’am,” answered Rosemary, but really she didn’t understand at all.

*************************************************

Mornings always seemed to come too soon for the Cartwright clan. It was as if they barely laid their heads down, and then it was time to face another day of hard work. Ben was always the first to rise. He relished the early mornings, for it was about the only time of day he had just for himself; a time of solace and reflection. Sometimes while sitting in front of the warmth of the fire and staring into the red-orange flames, memories of the past would come flooding back to his mind. He’d reflect about the special times he’d had with his sons, and then there were those moments when Marie would pop into his mind. It was almost unbearable to think of her. The pain was so deep; it caused his body to ache. He tried not to show his pain in front of the boys, especially Little Joe, since he still mourned his mother. Fortunately, today hadn’t been one of those days. He had business on his mind this morning.

The boys had already eaten and were outside doing their morning chores. Little Joe had the job of feeding the pigs and gathering the eggs. Hoss milked the cows each morning and evening and helped Adam clean out the stalls, giving the horse’s fresh hay and water for the day, and removing the muck at the end of the day. It wasn’t a pleasant job, but never the less one that had to be done. With each heave of the pitch fork, Hoss’ face wore an aspect of complete disgust.

Ben strolled through the open door leading inside the barn. He held a piece of paper in his hands. “Adam, when you get finished here, I need you to go into town and pick up these items, and then you can head for the north pasture,” he said, handing Adam the slip of paper.

“Yes sir.” He folded it up and stuffed it inside his shirt pocket. Little Joe had walked inside the barn when Ben was giving Adam his instructions.

“Pa, can I go into town with Adam?” he asked. Today was Saturday so the rest of the day was for him to do as he pleased.

“I guess so, as long as you have your chores done. You don’t mind, do you Adam?” asked Ben. Adam didn’t look exactly thrilled, but saw the hopeful expression in his baby brother’s eyes.

“As long as he promises not to run off where I can’t find him,” said Adam, pouring a bucket of fresh water in the water trough for his horse Beauty.

“I promise,” chimed Little Joe.

“All right, but you listen to your brother, understand?” said Ben.

“Yes sir!” he said, excitingly.

“Pa, would it be all right if I go and try to break that stallion that Adam couldn’t seem to stay on yesterday?” asked Hoss. Adam gave him a smirk.

“That’s fine son, but as soon as Adam gets back, I expect you to help him with that fence.”

“Ah Pa, do I have to?” he whined.

“Yes you do.” With the tone that was used, Hoss knew better than to try to talk himself out of it. Seeing that everything was in control and getting done, Ben turned and went back into the house.

“So Hoss, you actually think you can handle ole Bullhead?” asked Adam, while he was hitching the team to the buckboard.

“As a matter of fact yes I do, and I think I can do a whole heap better than you,” said Hoss, with confidence. Adam just snickered, as he pulled the buckboard into the yard. Hoss frowned. He would show his brother, he thought to himself. Adam walked toward the barn.

“Are you about ready Little Joe? I want to get going,” he said.

“I’ll be ready in a minute. I have to go get something in my room,” he said, taking off towards the house. He ran into his bedroom to look for the nickel he had been saving for such an occasion. He began flinging things out of his dresser and onto the floor in search of the five cent piece.

Adam was getting tired of waiting for his little brother. He let out a long sigh as he approached the front door. He stuck his head in. “Little Joe, would you hurry please? I have a full day ahead of me.”

“I’ll be right there,” yelled Little Joe from the bedroom.

“If you’re not in the buckboard in two minutes, I’m leaving without you,” said Adam, irritation in his voice. He shut the door and then climbed up into the buckboard. Suddenly the front door swung open and slammed shut. Little Joe came running full speed.

“Sorry Adam,” he said, climbing into his seat. Adam didn’t say a word to his brother. He didn’t have to; his hard stare said it all. He snapped the reins to get the horses going on their way.

Little Joe pulled out the nickel he had stuffed inside his pant pocket and showed it to his big brother. “I’ve been saving this. I’m going to buy a whole bag of jelly beans and licorice,” he said, beaming. He licked his lips just thinking about it. He placed the coin safely back into his pocket for safe keeping.

*************************************

Rosemary had put her new things away in her bedroom. She didn’t care for the style of dresses her aunt had chosen for her. She kept thinking about Jack Wolfe. He seemed to be such a nice gentleman and so friendly too. She remembered noticing a young woman standing in the doorway of the hotel, and she had been wearing the same kind of dress she had arrived in. She wondered if she was from Boston too. She figured the woman must work for him, because she had welcomed that stout man that had been riding with her on the stage, when he entered the hotel. She just couldn’t figure out why her aunt disliked Mr. Wolfe so much, but she had plans to find out. She was putting away her last bit of clothes in the dresser drawer, when Tess stepped inside. Rosemary turned her head.

“Hi. Well, I’m done with my chores, you want to go riding?” asked Tess.

“Riding? You mean on a horse?” asked Rosemary.

“Yeah, you have ridden on a horse, haven’t you?”

“Afraid not, I always rode in carriages in the city.” She saw the shocked expression on her cousin’s face and she felt embarrassed. “But I’m willing to learn, if you’ll teach me,” she said, smiling.

“All right, it’s real easy. You’re going to love it, come on,” said Tess, grabbing her hand and pulling her towards the stairs. Margaret was outside checking on the mare when the girls came into the barn giggling and babbling on so. She smiled. It was good for Tess to have someone her own age to pal around with. Plus, she hoped it would keep her mind off Hoss so much.

“Oh hi Ma how’s Ginger?” asked Tess. She strolled next to her mother and petted the mare.

“I think by this time tomorrow, we’ll have a new addition to our family,” said Margaret. Tess’ eyes lit up.

“Really? Oh how exciting,” squealed Tess. She glanced at Rosemary. “Did you hear that? We’re going to have a new colt soon.” Rosemary didn’t see what all the excitement was all about. “Ma, can Rosemary and I go riding for a while? I wanted to show her around the ranch.”

“Rosemary, can you ride?” asked Margaret.

“I’m a fast learner.”

“I’d feel much better if you took the carriage,” said Margaret. She saw the disappointment on the girl’s faces. “Rosemary needs to learn how to ride a horse properly before she rides any length of distance.” Tess knew better than to argue with her mother. She shrugged her shoulders and began to get the carriage ready.

“You make sure you’re home before supper,” instructed Margaret. “Have fun.” The girls smiled, and then they were off.

“We have a beautiful lake I’d like you to see,” said Tess, while they were trotting down the lane.

“Can we ride into town?” asked Rosemary.

“Town?”

“Yes, I really miss the big city. I didn’t have the chance to see the sights when I was with Aunt Margaret. Can we please?”

“I suppose so, but there’s really not that much to see there,” said Tess. She had the horses turn toward town. Tess had been hoping to ride by the Cartwright’s place. She had wanted to tell Hoss about the new colt coming, but she wanted her cousin to have a good time, so the Cartwright’s would have to wait until tomorrow.

*************************************

Eagle Station was a small town but was growing fast. It seemed new people were moving into the area daily in hopes of finding a better life. The main proprietors were Shelby’s Saloon and Lodging, Eli and Ruth’s E&R Trading Post, the town bank, post office, Maurice’s Livery Stable & Repairs, just recently a Mr. Davenport had moved into the area in hopes of starting the town’s first newspaper, and then there was Jack Wolfe’s new hotel. It was the biggest establishment in the small town. It was the only hotel in the area, so Jack was thriving quite well. The women folk hated the place, mostly because of Jack’s idea of companionship. Shelby wasn’t too pleased of his arrival either, for he took half of her business away when he opened up his own saloon inside the hotel.

You could be sure that if nothing else, the saloons would always be full of men of all sorts of life, especially in Jack’s place. Not only could you get a cold beer or a slug of whiskey after a hard day in the mine, but the men could be sure an enticing woman would make sure he was well taken care of.

Some of the men came into the saloon to play poker or Monte. It was a sure bet that at least one of the men, if not more, would drink too much and a fight would incur. A lot of times it would turn into a big brawl. Shelby would take out her gun she kept behind the counter and shoot it in the air to get the men’s attention, and then throw the ones who had started the whole mess out of the saloon for the rest of the day. Jack was more sophisticated. He would quietly escort the gentlemen who were causing the disturbance outside of his hotel, and then direct them to Shelby’s.

Ben didn’t approve of such activities that went on inside the saloon, especially the vulgar things that took place inside of Jack’s place, but there wasn’t anything he could do about it. All he could do was stay away from it, and he had forbidden his sons from going inside either saloon.

Adam pulled the buckboard in front of Eli’s store. Little Joe bounded from the wagon and ran inside, before Adam even got out of his seat. He found his way through a couple of young ladies who were scanning through some new material that had just arrived from San Francisco, and finally he reached his destination. His eyes danced with anticipation as he eyed the different containers that were filled with all his favorite confections. As soon as Eli had finished helping an older woman with her order, Little Joe approached him.

“Good morning, Little Joe,” he said, with a friendly smile.

“Hi,” answered Little Joe, not taking his eyes off the candy.

“Can I help you with anything?”

“You sure can. I have a nickel, and I would like to buy a nickels worth of jellybeans and black licorice please.” He laid the shiny coin on the counter.

“That’s a lot of candy for just one small boy,” commented Eli. Adam strolled through the door. He removed his hat. “Hello Adam, I’ll be with you in a moment after I finish with this very important customer,” he said, winking. Adam nodded, and then began searching for some of the items on the list. Eli filled the bag, and handed it to Little Joe who anxiously took it from his hand. “Now don’t eat it all at once. I wouldn’t want to be blamed for you having a belly ache.”

“Yes sir,” said Little Joe. He twisted around. “Adam, I’ll be waiting for ya in the wagon.”

“All right, oh Joe, Eli’s right, don’t try eating all that candy at once, you hear?” he said, pointing his finger at his young brother.

“Yeah, yeah,” he said. He walked outside. He quickly dipped his hand into the bag and brought out a fistful of jellybeans and then popped them into his mouth. He closed his eyes as he enjoyed the different flavors blending together. It was pure heaven.

*******************************************

While Eli was filling Adam’s order, Tess and Rosemary arrived in town. When Tess noticed Little Joe sitting in the wagon, her heart skipped a beat. Perhaps Hoss was in town too. She stopped the carriage next to Little Joe and jumped down. He was so involved in indulging himself he hadn’t even noticed them.

“Hi Little Joe,” said Tess. Little Joe glanced up to see Tess standing beside him.

“Oh, hi,” he said, his cheeks bulging from the candy.

“Is Hoss inside?”

“Nope, only Adam, you want some candy?” he asked, pushing the bag towards her.

“No thank you,” she said, with disappointment in her voice. Little Joe looked at the girl next to Tess. “Where are my manners? I’m sorry, this is my cousin Rosemary. This is Little Joe Cartwright.”

“Are you Ben Cartwright’s little boy?” asked Rosemary. Little Joe nodded his head up and down since he had a mouth full of licorice at the moment. “Well, aren’t you just the cutest thing.” He gave her a scowl.

“Come on, I’ll introduce you to his oldest brother Adam,” said Tess. They walked into the store and Tess stood inside scanning the room with her eyes. A smile crawled across her face when she spotted him. “This way,” she motioned for her cousin to follow her. They ambled their way down the aisle toward the back of the store and found Adam bending to pick up a fifty pound bag of rice. He threw it over his shoulder and turned to go put it in the back of the buckboard. “Hi Adam,” said Tess. He was startled not expecting to have someone right behind him. He gave her a grin.

“Hi Tess.” He started walking toward the front door.

“Let me get the door for you,” she said.

“Thanks.” He tossed the bag in the wagon and then turned to find Tess still on his heels.

“Adam, I’d like you to meet my cousin Rosemary,” she said. Adam smiled, extending his hand out to the girl.

“Hello Rosemary, nice to meet you,” he said.

“Hello.”

“She’s come to live with us all the way from Boston,” said Tess. His ears perked up.

“Really? I hope to go to college in Boston,” he said, suddenly interested in the girl. “Welcome to Eagle Station. I hope you’ll like it here.”

“Oh believe me, I already do. The country is absolutely breathtaking. And the men here are the most handsome I think I have ever laid my eyes on and so strong too,” she said, smiling sweetly and looking him up and down. Adam felt his face grow hot. He wasn’t use to a girl being so forward.

“Uh, if you’ll excuse me, I have to finish loading the wagon and get back to the ranch,” he said. He tipped his hat and escaped inside. Tess’ mouth hung open. She would have never had the nerve to say such a thing. Rosemary ignored the look her cousin gave her; instead she peered down the street at Jack Wolfe’s hotel. She slowly started walking towards it. Tess ran to catch up to her.

“Where are we going?” she asked.

“The hotel.”

“What?!” asked Tess in surprise. She followed behind her cousin. “Rosemary, we can’t go there.”

“Why not? Mr. Wolfe seems like a fine gentleman to me,” said Rosemary, taking longer strides toward the hotel. Tess was practically running trying to keep up.

“He’s not the gentleman you think he is, believe me,” said Tess, breathing heavy. Rosemary just rolled her eyes and kept walking.

“You sound just like Aunt Margaret,” she complained.

“Rosemary stop, you can’t be serious,” said Tess. Rosemary stopped for a brief moment and stared at her cousin.

“All I want to do is see what the fuss is all about. Aunt Margaret told me to stay away from him, but wouldn’t explain why, so I’m going to find out for myself.” At that, she turned and aimed for the hotel again. Her father had spoiled her something awful after her mother had died. He just couldn’t bring himself to say no to her, so she was use to having her own way no matter.

“Rosemary stop I’ll tell you why you shouldn’t go inside,” said Tess, her voice pleading. It was too late; she was already ascending up the stairs. Tess stop short as she watched her cousin disappear through the front door. She felt a panic rush through her. She thought of Adam. She quickly turned and ran back towards the Trading Post.

“Thank you Mr. Orowitz,” said Adam, leaving the store. Climbing into the buckboard, he noticed Little Joe’s mouth was stuffed to the limit with candy, and then he looked at the bag. It was half empty. He frowned. “Little Joe, didn’t I tell you not to eat all that candy at one time?”

“I haven’t, see?” he said, dangling the bag in front of Adam’s face. Adam grabbed it from his brother.

“Hey, give that back to me.”

“No, I think you’ve had enough. I’ll just hold on to the rest of it until we get home, and we can let Pa decide whether you should have it or not,” he said, closing the bag and putting it on the seat away from his brother’s reach.

“You can’t do that Adam. It’s my candy, now give it back,” Little Joe demanded.

“I said you’ve had enough. You’ll get yourself sick if you eat anymore.”

“You ain’t Pa, you know,” he said, frowning.

“No, but Pa expects me to watch over you and that’s what I’m doing, now let’s get home.” He snapped the reins and turned the wagon around in the opposite direction that led toward home. Little Joe sat pouting with his arms folded across his chest. Adam noticed Tess running towards them, as he started down the road. Her arms were flailing in the air. Something was wrong. He stopped the team, and jumped down.

“Tess, what’s wrong?” he asked, concern written all over his face.

“It’s my cousin; she went into Jack Wolfe’s hotel. I told her not to, but she wouldn’t listen. I don’t know what to do,” she said, near the verge of tears.

“Don’t worry, I’ll go and get her out,” he said. He left her side and climbed the steps leading into the hotel. He was met by a red-haired woman with her bosom’s almost falling out of her burgundy satin dress. She smiled, ready to welcome him, but he just pushed right past her. A look of utter surprise crossed her face, for she had never been rejected by a man. Adam looked around the lobby, but saw only Jack’s main girl Lily, sitting behind the desk. He quickly turned and went into the saloon, and there at a small table in the back of the room was Jack and Rosemary engaged in conversation. He frowned deeply as he approached them. He could hear the compliments pouring out of Jack’s mouth like thick syrup. It was sickening. Jack noticed him out of the corner of his left eye.

“What can I do for you young man?” he asked, annoyed he was being interrupted.

“I’m here to get Rosemary out of this filthy place.” He reached out his right hand toward the girl. “Come on, Tess is waiting outside for you.”

“I don’t know who you think you are, but I’m not ready to leave,” said Rosemary smugly.

“Oh yes you are,” he said, and he grabbed her by the arm and pulled her up from the chair. He glared at Jack. “How can you sink so low? She’s only a little girl.” Rosemary’s mouth fell open. She had never been so insulted in her life. She tried to protest, but he led her out the door. Once outside, he allowed her to jerk free from his grip.

“How dare you! And I’m not a little girl!” she yelled. Adam smiled just enough to show his dimples and shook his head.

“Tess, you and Rosemary should get going in case Jack decides to come out and stir up trouble,” he suggested. He climbed back into the wagon.

“Thank you Adam,” said Tess, gratefully. She scowled at her cousin. “Let’s go home. I can’t believe you went inside that, that horrible place. If Ma finds out, she’ll tan you good.” They began walking towards the carriage. “What did you do in there?”

“Jack, I mean Mr. Wolfe and I just talked, that’s all. I don’t see anything wrong in what I did, and I won’t apologize for it. And I’ve come to the conclusion that I do not like that Adam Cartwright.” Tess could only stare at her cousin with amazement. She had nerves of steel and didn’t seem to be afraid of anything. She sort of envied her cousin; she wished she was as brave. They got into the carriage and rode back to the ranch.

*************************************

Adam and Little Joe pulled up into the yard of the ranch house. Little Joe jumped out of the wagon before it came to a full stop.

“Wait a minute, I need you to help me unload the wagon before you go running off to play,” said Adam.

“All right.” Little Joe walked up to the wagon and speedily grabbed the bag of candy. “There, I helped,” he said. He turned to run towards the woods, but Adam was quick as a cat pouncing on a mouse, and he grabbed his little brother by his right arm.

“Oh no you don’t. You didn’t help me in town; you’re going to help now.”

“Adam, let me go.” Little Joe tried his best to squirm free.

“Only if you promise to help.”

“I don’t have to do what you say,” he answered, his temper rising. Suddenly Adam snatched the candy away from Little Joe and held it above his head.

“Now, you can have this back after the work is done not before,” said Adam, with authority. Seeing that he didn’t have a choice if he wanted his treats back, he reluctantly began removing items from the wagon and carrying them into the house. Adam placed the small bag into his coat pocket and went to work himself. When the chore was almost completed, they heard Hoss yelling. He was once again being tossed about by that cantankerous horse. Adam and Little Joe dropped what they were doing and ran to the corral.

“Hey Hoss, I figured you’d have that horse tamed by the time we got back,” snickered Adam. Hoss didn’t see the humor. His body ached from being thrown so many times already this morning. He wasn’t in a joking mood.

“Don’t start your teasing Adam,” he warned. He carefully mounted the animal again. He wrapped the reins tightly around his right hand so to have a good grip. The horse stood calm in its stall, so Hoss glanced over at his older brother and gave him a cocky smile. Once he was secure, Lewis, one of the top hands, released the horse. It began bucking as hard as it could in its attempt to rid the load off its back. Hoss’ expression went from grit to complete panic. Little Joe climbed up on the fence to cheer his brother on.

“Hang on Hoss, hang on!” he yelled. Hoss looked like a rag doll being tossed about. He held on for dear life, but it wasn’t long before he found himself eating dirt once again. Adam and Little Joe began to hoot and holler so loud, surely the Greene’s heard them. Hoss lay limp on the ground. Little Joe watched waiting for him to sit up, but he didn’t budge. A worried expression came over his face.

“Adam, something’s wrong with Hoss,” he said, scared. He sprawled over the fence and ran to his brother. He bent over him and called his name over and over again but didn’t get a response. “Oh Adam, he’s, he’s dead.” He started to cry. “Hoss! Hoss!” he cried, shaking his brother. He glanced up and screamed for Pa. Adam realized that Little Joe wasn’t fooling around. He jumped the fence and ran to his brother’s side.

“Hoss, he said, shaking him slightly. Nothing. “Something IS wrong. Go get Pa,” ordered Adam. Suddenly, Hoss began chuckling. Adam was startled and stood frowning. “Dog gone it Hoss, we thought you were really hurt,” he said, angrily.

“I’m fine older brother, just a little tuckered that’s all,” he said. He sat up and smiled at his two brothers. For once he had tricked them.

“That wasn’t funny Hoss,” said little Joe, wiping his eyes.

“I thought so.”

“Well I don’t think so son,” said Ben. He was walking towards them; a deep crease in his forehead. Hoss stood quickly and brushed the dirt off his pants. He glanced at his Pa for a second and knew he wasn’t pleased.

“I get tired of them two always teasing me Pa. I thought I’d get them back. It worked too,” he said, half grinning.

“That’s not the kind of pranks I want to see going on around here. Pretending you’re hurt or worse isn’t something to joke about, understand?” said Ben, with a firm expression. “Adam, little Joe, I want you to stop teasing your brother so much. Now, can you tell me why you are out here wasting time when you haven’t finished unloading the wagon? And I do believe I gave you and Hoss a job to do today Adam,” he said, with an ominous frown.

“Yes sir, Pa, sorry. I’ll get on it right now,” said Adam. He didn’t dare look in his father’s eyes. He moved swiftly passed him. It didn’t take him long to complete the task. And then Hoss came and helped him reload the wagon with the materials they would need for mending the fence. Hop Sing made them a lunch to carry with them since they wouldn’t return until supper.

“Pa is it ok if I go fishing?” asked little Joe.

“No, I believe you have something else to do,” said Ben, looking down at his young son.

“I do? What?” he asked with big, innocent eyes.

“That mess you made in your bedroom needs to be cleaned up. What were you doing?”

“I was looking for my nickel,” he said, shuffling his feet.

“I hope you found it,” said Ben flatly.

“Sure did,” said little Joe, grinning. Ben’s face remained serious, so the grin disappeared as quickly as it came.

“Hop Sing was quite upset when he saw your room, but I told him to leave it. I want you to go in there and clean it up. I expect you to fold those clothes and put them in their proper place neatly, and then you may go fishing,” said Ben. “But I want you home before supper.”

“Yes sir, thanks Pa,” he said, beaming.

“I’m going to Margaret Greene’s ranch, I’ll be back as soon as I can,” said Ben.

“Yes sir.” Little Joe scurried off to his room while Ben went inside the barn to saddle his horse, Buck.

*************************************

Tess and Rosemary rode up into the yard. Tess looked nervously at her cousin. “If you value your life, I’d keep quiet about where we were today. Ma would be furious if she found out,” said Tess.

“Don’t you worry cousin; I know when to keep quiet. Whose horse is that?” Rosemary pointed to the beige gelding.

“It’s Ben Cartwright’s. I wonder what he’s doing here,” said Tess. They stepped to the ground and headed for the house. They heard a noise coming from the barn before they reached the door. Tess’ eyes grew into round saucers. “Ginger!” She turned and ran towards the barn.

“That a girl, you’re doing fine Ginger. Soon your baby will be here,” said Margaret in a soothing voice. She was rubbing the horse trying to keep her calm.

“Ma!” yelled Tess. Margaret glanced up and smiled.

“Ginger decided to surprise us this morning,” she said. “Ben just happened to come in the nick of time.” Ben looked up for a second, but then turned his attention back to the job at hand. He wiped his brow.

“Tess, could you get me a clean blanket and some hot water? I think she’s about ready,” asked Ben.

“Yes sir.”

Rosemary just stared in awe as she watched the miracle of birth happen right before her very eyes. She watched Ben help the mare push her baby out into the world, and then he immediately began cleaning the new colt. She watched in amusement as the colt tried to stand up. Its small legs were so wobbly and they kept buckling underneath him. After a few tries, it finally found its balance and went directly to its mother and began to nurse.

Ben hadn’t even noticed Rosemary, since she had stood quietly in the corner watching the show. He stood and began cleaning himself up, and he suddenly became aware of someone staring at him. He turned his head and that’s when he noticed her. He smiled. She didn’t look like the same young woman he had met yesterday. She was just a child. His sleeves were rolled up and he began to scrub his hands and arms. When he was done, he glanced around looking for something to dry himself. Rosemary saw an extra blanket and quickly snatched it up and brought it to him.

“Here you go, Mr. Cartwright,” she said sweetly.

“Thank you Rose,” he said. She smiled wide when he called her Rose. She was happy he had remembered. She just stood peering at him. He brought down his sleeves and tried to button them.

“Oh, let me help you,” she said. In an instant she was by his side. He tried to protest, saying he could do it, but she insisted. Margaret and Tess were too busy with the new colt that they hadn’t notice Rosemary’s attentive behavior. Rosemary’s cheeks slowly turned rosier than usual. There was something about Ben that made her feel all warm inside. “Anything else I can help you with?” she asked.

“Don’t think so, dear,” she said. She blushed even more. He had just called her dear. Ben didn’t pay much attention of her changing colors, but just strolled on past her and toward the stall where Ginger and her new colt stood.

“He’s a fine looking colt,” he said. “Have you picked out a name for him yet?”

“We were thinking about calling him Cinnamon,” said Tess, grinning.

“That’s a real good name. He is the color of cinnamon, isn’t he?” he chuckled. “So Margaret, how about it, will you and the girls come for supper?”

“We would love to Ben. For all the work you’ve done here, I almost feel we should be having you for supper instead.”

“Ahhh, don’t be silly. We’ll expect you around six then?”

“Yes, that sounds fine. And Ben, thank you for all your help,” said Margaret. He smiled at her, as he put on his gloves. “See you girls tonight.” He walked outside and mounted Buck. Rosemary sighed while she watched him leave. Tess came outside and noticed her cousin had a queer expression on her face.

“Are you all right?” asked Tess.

“I’m fine; just fine,” she answered all dreamy eyed. Tess rolled her eyes and went into the house.

***************************

Rosemary began sorting through her dresses when it was time to get ready to go to the Cartwright’s for supper. She didn’t like any she had to choose from. Aunt Margaret had bought her dresses in her opinion that belonged on a little girl, not a grown up woman as herself. She suddenly remembered the pastel blue dress she had stuck in the back of the closet when she had first arrived. She had given all the others to Aunt Margaret to discard, but she had been determined to keep at least one of them. She reached back and found it and pulled it out. She placed it up against herself as she looked in the mirror. It looked pretty against her auburn hair. She closed her door and then proceeded to change into the dress. It fit her to a tee and showed off what curves she had. It was cut low in the front, and she thought it made her look more grown up. She decided she was going to wear it no matter how Aunt Margaret felt about it. She pinned her hair up with a pretty silver barrette. She stepped back and admired herself. It would have to do. She would be happier if she could have some color on her face, but she knew that was most definitely out of the question. She pinched her cheeks to give them some color. She was satisfied. She twirled around with her arms above her head. She stopped when she heard a knock on her door. She slowly opened it and was relieved to find Tess on the other side. When Tess saw her, a big smile crept across her face.

“Uh, Ma told me to come and fetch you. It’s time to go. Rosemary, I thought Ma made you get rid of all those kind of dresses,” she said.

“I know, but I just had to keep one of them for myself. Does it look all right?” asked Rosemary.

“Well, the color is beautiful on you, but I’m not too sure Ma will let you wear it.”

“Why not?”

“It’s a little low in the front, don’t you think?” Rosemary glanced in the mirror again.

“No, not at all. This is what I am wearing,” she said with stubbornness. She found her white shawl and wrapped it over her shoulders, blocking the upper part of her dress. Tess just shrugged as they walked down the stairs. Margaret was already outside waiting in the carriage. She noticed Rosemary’s hair right off, which she didn’t particularly like. She would rather her wear it down, but right now she didn’t have the time to argue. She didn’t notice what dress Rosemary had on since it was dusk. They climbed into the carriage and off they went. Rosemary’s heart was skipping beats in anticipation of seeing Mr. Ben Cartwright again.

***************************************

Adam and Hoss came home tired, dirty, and irritable. They had discovered most of the fence needed to be replaced and was forced to dig new fence post holes. It was dirty, hard work. Of all the jobs on the ranch, this had to be one of the worst. Every muscle in their bodies ached. When Ben told them that Margaret and the girls were coming for supper, they groaned especially Adam. The only thing they wished to do was get a hot bath, eat a hearty meal, and then go to bed. But that wasn’t to be. They would get their bath and meal, but sleep would have to wait until the guest left.

They hadn’t been in the front door five minutes when little Joe ran up to Adam and asked him for his bag of candy.

“That was your candy?” asked Hoss, his eyebrows rising. Little Joe nodded. “Sorry shortshanks, but I ate it.”

“Ate it!” shouted little Joe. “Adam, why did you give my candy to Hoss?” Adam was in no mood for a temper tantrum, but he could see one coming.

“I forgotten I had put it in my pocket and it started melting in my coat, so I lay the bag on the seat of the wagon, but brother here spotted it and ate it,” explained Adam.

“You had no right eating it Hoss,” complained Little Joe.

“Little Joe, what’s the big deal? You had already eaten most of it, so you had more than your share,” said Adam.

“So? I bought it with my money. You had no right to give it away. You owe me a nickel,” complained Joe.

“I didn’t give it away, and I owe you nothing, now would you just drop it? What’s done is done. Good grief. I’m going to take my bath, and I want to be left alone,” stated Adam, in a harsh tone. He left the room.

“I’m real sorry little Joe,” said Hoss.

“Sure you are.” Ben cleared his throat and glanced over the book he had been reading and stared at his young son. He didn’t say a word. His expression said it all.

**********************************

Ben had the boys wear their Sunday shirt and tie to the table. It only added to their grumpiness. Adam sat in the chair trying to read, but kept dozing. Joe kept bugging Hoss to play checkers with him, but he was too tired to think.

“Aw, come on Hoss, just one game, please,” begged Joe.

“Not right now, maybe later,” said Hoss, yawning. They heard the carriage pull up outside.

As soon as Tess walked through the front door, suddenly the exhausted feeling Hoss had felt left him. She always brought a smile to his face. If it was up to him, he’d marry her tomorrow, but he knew he had no choice but wait until they were older. He only hoped the feelings they had for one another now would still remain a couple years from now. He gave her his wide gap-toothed smile. She returned the gesture.

“Hello Maggie, girls,” said Ben. He helped them with their wraps. Rosemary removed her shawl and handed it to Ben, smiling sweetly. Margaret’s face went pale. She suddenly realized she has failed to thoroughly inspect her niece’s attire. She would never have allowed her to wear such a dress. She thought she had gotten rid of all those types of garments. She did look beautiful, and Ben felt embarrassed for noticing. He realized she was just a little girl wanting desperately to be grown up. Adam just cast his eyes upward and sat by the fire.

“You have a lovely home, Mr. Cartwright,” she said with honey.

“Thank you Rosemary,” he said, making sure to call her by her full name, which didn’t go unnoticed by her.

“It’s Rose, remember?” she said. He nodded, giving her wrap to Hop Sing to put away.

“Hoss, this is my cousin Rosemary,” said Tess.

“Howdy,” he said. Little Joe walked into the room.

“Hi little Joe,” said Rosemary, before realizing what she had said. She brought her hand to her mouth immediately as if she had said a bad word.

“You two have met?” asked Margaret, surprised.

“Sure did, in town today,” he said. Adam cleared his throat loudly trying to get his brother’s attention. Little Joe glanced his way and Adam placed his index finger up to his mouth.

“What do you mean in town? I thought you said you took a ride in the country side Tess,” said Margaret, putting her right hand on her hip.

“Uh, we did, but then we rode into town just for a minute,” said Tess, nervously.

“Where did you see little Joe?” asked Margaret. Tess glanced down toward the ground quickly, avoiding her mother’s face.

“We, uh, we…,” she stammered, but was interrupted by little Joe.

“I saw her at the Trading Post, and then later at Jack’s hotel,” he said. He was still sore at Adam about the candy, so he wasn’t going to do him any favors. Adam closed his eyes slowly and sank lower in his seat. Ben shot a frown his way. Before anymore could be said, Hop Sing came out of the kitchen.

“Mr. Cartlight, supper ready. You all come, sit, eat while still hot,” he ordered. Ben and Margaret looked at each other with eyebrows raised. Everyone went to the table. Ben sat at the head of the table. He had Margaret sit at the other end. Hoss and Adam sat in their usual places, but as little Joe went toward his chair, Rosemary scooted by him and sat in his place. He frowned and was about to protest until he noticed the annoyance on his Pa’s face. He made his way next to the empty chair next to Margaret and sat down. Tess sat next to Hoss, which suited her just fine.

Throughout the entire meal, the only thing that could be heard was the forks scraping against the plates. Ben and Margaret were lost in their own thoughts. No doubt they had questions they wanted answered, but thought it wouldn’t be proper to speak about it at the supper table. Adam took the chance and glanced at his Pa, and saw he was wearing a hard expression on his face. Though he hadn’t done anything wrong, he knew how his pa felt about Jack’s place, and had forbid any of his boys to go anywhere near it. He only hoped Pa would understand why he had to go inside. Rosemary suddenly broke the ice.

“Ben, I mean Mr. Cartwright, you set a lovely table, and I must say, this has to be the finest meal I have partaken of in a very long time,” she complimented, trying to sound adult as possible.

“You have Hop Sing to thank for the meal,” answered Ben. Silence once again overtook the table again. After about five minutes Tess cleared her throat and dared to speak in hopes of easing the tension in the room.

“Hoss, you’ll have to come over and see our brand new colt. We named him Cinnamon.”

“Cinnamon huh, I like that. I’ll try and come by real soon,” said Hoss. He filled his mouth with another dumpling.

“Speaking of horses, I would really like to learn how to ride one,” said Rosemary, looking towards Ben when she spoke.

“I’ll be glad to teach you,” offered Hoss. The smile on Rosemary’s face left.

“Oh, I suppose so, when can we start?” she asked.

“I don’t know, maybe tomorrow after I get done with my chores,” he said.

“All right, that sounds fine. Please pass the rolls,” she said. Margaret watched her niece and frowned. She was acting as if she was an adult and had no one to account to. It made her angry.

“I believe you forgot something young lady,” she said flatly. Rosemary looked at her aunt. “You failed to ask my permission. I will decide when and if you learn to ride a horse.” Rosemary turned red with embarrassment. She was being treated like a child. She opened her mouth but quickly closed it when Margaret glared at her. “Finish your supper, and then we have some talking to do. That includes you too Tess.”

“Adam and Joseph can join the girls as well,” said Ben, staring at his two sons.

“Why Pa, I haven’t done anything wrong,” protested little Joe.

“We’ll discuss it after supper, now quit playing with your food and eat it,” he said sternly.

**********************************

Adam, Joe, Tess, and Rosemary sat in a row on the couch.

“All right girls, I want an explanation of how you came to be at Jack Wolfe’s hotel,” ordered Margaret, standing with her hands on her hips.

“Ma, I tried to stop Rosemary, but she wouldn’t listen to me, she just she…,” but she stopped before telling all.

“She what Tess?” asked Margaret. When Tess didn’t answer, Margaret became upset and yelled at her. “Answer me young lady, NOW!”

“She went inside the hotel.”

“Is that true Rosemary?” asked Margaret, a deep frown creased her forehead.

“Yes, it’s true,” she answered.

“Didn’t I tell you specifically not to go anywhere near that man?” she asked.

“Yes, but I don’t understand why. I didn’t see any harm in going inside to see Mr. Wolfe, Aunt Margaret. I wanted to see for myself the reason of your request, but I’m afraid I didn’t find any. He’s such a pleasant man, and he treated me kindly.” She said brazenly, thinking she sounded quite grownup.

Tess couldn’t believe how her cousin had just spoken to her mother. Little Joe’s mouth fell open. He knew if he had said that to Pa, he’d be having a difficult time sitting down tomorrow. Margaret’s eyes grew wide and she strode angrily toward her niece.

“Young lady, I will not tolerate such disrespect, and after I’m done with you, you will understand exactly the reason why I forbid you to go near Jack Wolfe!” she shouted, pointing her index finger in Rosemary’s face. She turned and faced Ben. “I’m sorry about this Ben, but I think I need to get on home. I need to deal with this there.”

“I understand Margaret,” said Ben, his face stern. He stood with his eyes squarely focused on Rosemary for a moment, and then he turned his attention to his eldest son. “Before you go, I would like to know where my sons fit into all of this.” He crossed his arms across his broad chest. “Well?”

“Pa, I know you’ve told us not to go near the hotel, and believe me, I whole heartily agree, but I only went inside to get Rosemary away from Jack. Tess came to me upset telling me she had gone inside. I felt I had to go get her out,” explained Adam. He glanced at Rosemary, and as he did, she set her mouth stubbornly. Ben noticed, scrutinized her, and shook his head. He cleared his throat.

“Well, in this instance it was a good thing you were there Adam to help out. Joseph, where were you during all of this?”

“Oh, I stayed in the wagon.” Ben was relieved to hear that.

“Come on girls,” said Margaret, walking towards the door. She turned just before walking outside. “I’m sorry the evening was ruined.” She quickly left, embarrassed.

“Margaret has her hands full with her niece. I thing the girl’s problem is that she’s too big for her britches. What she needs is an attitude adjustment,” said Adam, taking a seat in his favorite chair by the fire.

“I’m afraid you’re right son. She wants to be all grown up just a little too fast, but I’m sure Margaret will know what to do with her,” said Ben, with confidence. “How about a game of chess?”

**************************

Several days past before Margaret was seen again. She rode into town, did her business, and quickly headed for home. She didn’t want to run into Jack, because she was afraid of what she might say or do.

She had sat Rosemary down and had a long, serious discussion with her about Jack’s hotel and what it stood for. She explained in detail exactly what those girls did for him. Rosemary’s complexion must have turned three shades of red throughout the conversation. Margaret made it clear that when Jack Wolfe turned on his charm, it stood for only one reason. She told her his last name suited him to a tee. He was like a sheep on the outside, but inside he was actually a wolf searching for new prey. She forbade Rosemary and Tess to even speak to the man ever again. She had also restricted Rosemary to the ranch for the next two weeks and gave her extra chores. She restricted Tess for a week, for taking her into town in the first place. When Rosemary started whining and complaining about her punishment, Tess told her she should be thankful that Ma hadn’t taken the strap to her as well.

********************************

Rosemary was awakened by a mocking bird, which was perched on a branch near her window. She could see streaks of sunlight escaping from beneath the curtains, and she rose to peek out of the window. It was a glorious morning. It had rained the last couple of days, but this morning the skies were clear and the sun bright. She closed her eyes and smiled as she allowed the rays warm her face. She was startled out of her tranquility by Margaret’s voice calling her from the other side of the door. She let out a frustrating sigh as she walked across the room and opened her door.

“It’s late. You need to get dressed and get started on your chores. Tess is already in the barn,” said Margaret. She turned on her heels and went into her own room. Rosemary strolled to the window once again and looked out. All she wanted to do was to dress and escape from this place. It was much too pretty of a day to be stuck doing hard labor all day. She was really sick and tired of all these chores Aunt Margaret kept conjuring up for her to do. She heard Margaret’s door open, so she quickly began dressing.

Margaret had her dressy blue dress on, when Rosemary came barreling down the stairs. Tess had just come inside bringing in the eggs. “Girls, I’m going into town for a while. I have a few errands to run, and then I’ll be having lunch with Mrs. Covington. She has your dresses ready. I expect you to have all your chores finished by the time I get home,” she said, while walking towards the carriage. “We’ll have a nice supper tonight, and then I was thinking perhaps tomorrow we could have a picnic by the lake. Maybe we could ask Ben and the boys to join us, how does that sound?” she asked, climbing up into the carriage.

“It sounds great Ma,” said Tess. Margaret snapped the reins and rode toward town. “Just think, after today our restriction will be over, and we’ll be done with these extra chores,” she said, glancing at her cousin.

“How can you think of doing chores on a day like this?” asked Rosemary.

“I would like to be on my horse right now riding to see Hoss, but Ma expects this to be done. It’s only one more day Rosemary.” She ambled her way towards the barn.

“It’s too nice of a day to be coop up in this stinky old barn slaving for Aunt Margaret all day, and I for one, do not intend to stay here,” said Rosemary. She walked into the barn and began hitching up the horses to the buckboard.

“What are you doing?” asked Tess, following behind her cousin.

“What does it look like I’m doing? I’m getting out of here. I can’t take another day of this, this slave labor. You want to come?” she asked, twisting her neck around to eye Tess.

“No way, and if I were you, I’d think about what you’re doing. Ma will be furious, and I really don’t think she’ll be so easy on you this time if you disobey her,” she warned.

“I don’t care. I’m not a child like she thinks I am. She treats you the same way, you know. She looks at you and all she sees is her little girl, not the woman you really are. Don’t you ever get tired of her always ragging on you for every little thing you do?” asked Rosemary. She stepped up and sat down in the buckboard. Tess wasn’t sure how to respond to that question. “Last chance, you want to come with me? It’ll be fun.”

“No, I can’t. And I wish you wouldn’t go.” Rosemary rolled her eyes and picked up the reins and snapped them against the horse’s rump. It took off in a gallop. Tess watched her cousin leave the yard. She couldn’t understand what made Rosemary so determined to defy her mother. All she knew was she didn’t want to be around if her Ma found out.

Ben was busy sawing wood when Rosemary pulled up in the buckboard. He looked over his shoulders, wiped his brow, and then smiled.

“Morning Rosemary,” he said, with one leg propped up against the sawhorse using it for leverage.

“Hello, well, I’ve come to learn how to ride a horse,” she said with a bright smile. Ben took out a cotton scarf and wiped the sweat off his face.

“Oh? Well, I’m sorry, but Hoss isn’t here right now. If you come back this afternoon, I’m sure he wouldn’t mind teaching you,” said Ben. Rosemary’s smile turned into a scowl.

“But I was hoping you would teach me,” she said, jumping down from the wagon. She strolled beside him. He glanced down at her.

“I’m sorry Rosemary, but I can’t.” He brought his leg down and stood tall.

“Buy why not?” she asked, with her hands on her hips.

“For one thing, I’m very busy right now, and second, I believe Hoss would be the better teacher.”

“Oh, now that’s just plain silly. I know you would be much better than Hoss,” she crooned, stepping closer to him. “Please Ben.” She wrapped her hands around his left arm and stared up at him with a sweet smile. He could tell where this was leading, and he didn’t like it one bit. He pulled her hands away.

“I said no. I think it’s about time you go home,” he said, frowning. But Rosemary stood her ground. When there was something she wanted, she was determined to get it no matter what it took.

Hop Sing came outside carrying a tray of lemonade and fresh baked cookies right out of the oven. He grinned when he noticed they had a guest.

“Mr. Cartlight, I bring you refreshment. Hello Miss Rosemary. I go get another glass,” he said. He placed the tray down in a chair on the front porch, and before Ben could stop him, he disappeared into the house. Rosemary’s face lit up. She walked to where the refreshment was and poured up a glass of cool lemonade.

“Here you go, you must be dying of thirst,” she said, holding the glass out to Ben. He pursed his lips, but then took the glass. He hadn’t realized how dry his throat was until he took the first sip. He didn’t come up for air until the glass was empty. He wiped his mouth, placed the glass down on the floor of the porch, and then picked up his saw.

“Here you go Missy,” said Hop Sing, as he returned.

“Thank you Hop Sing.” She poured herself a glass and took a dainty sip. “My, this is refreshing.”

“Here, have cookie. I make this morning,” offered Hop Sing. She took two cookies from the tray and then sat down on the front steps as she ate her cookies slowly.

“You sure have a beautiful place here,” said Rosemary, in between bites. She watched as Ben worked. He put all of his strength into it causing his muscles to ripple underneath his shirt. Beads of sweat began to form across his forehead. “Let me get you some more Lemonade,” she said, jumping up.

“No, thank you, I’ve had enough,” he said, without stopping. He glanced over his shoulders. “Does Margaret know where you are?”

“Well of course she does,” she lied. “She just told me to be home for supper.”

“Well, like I said, I’m very busy right now. So, if you’ll excuse me, I really need to get this work done.” He was trying to be polite, but she wasn’t making it easy for him.

“All right, but can you teach me tomorrow?” she asked persistently. Ben quit sawing and looked at her. His face was serious. He sighed and leaned the saw against the sawhorse.

“The answer is no. Now, I don’t mind if Hoss or Adam teaches you, but I will not,” he said, focusing on her expression. It became clouded. She turned her back to him and held her head down. Ben stood watching her.

“Why don’t you like me?” she asked, in almost a whisper.

“Rosemary, I do like you,” he said. She quickly turned around and faced him, her eyes brightening.

“You do? Oh Ben, I knew it. I knew it from the second Aunt Margaret introduced us,” she rattled. She wrapped her arms around his waist. He was stunned for a moment, but then suddenly pulled her away. He didn’t look happy. “What’s wrong?” she asked.

“What do you mean when you knew from the second you met me. You knew what?” he asked, scowling.

“I knew that I, I, I love you, Ben,” she said, sounding so sincere.

“You what?!”

“I said I love you. I felt it right here,” she said, pointing to her stomach. “Every time I see you, I get a funny feeling right here.” She lifted her face and quick as a cat kissed him on his left cheek. Ben wasn’t sure how to handle this delicate situation. He wanted to laugh on one hand, but then on the other hand, he thought of delivering a good tanning to her backside, and then perhaps that funny feeling would leave her. He gently squeezed her arms.

“I’m sorry Rosemary, but I don’t have that kind of feeling towards you,” he said, as gentle as possible. She glanced up at him and frowned.

“What do you mean? You just said a minute ago that you liked me, didn’t you?” she asked, her voice trembling.

“Yes I did, but I didn’t mean it the way you took it. You are a sweet child, but…,” but he was rudely interrupted.

“Child, I am not a child! I am fifteen years old!” she yelled. She jerked herself free from his grip. Ben had just about enough of this nonsense.

“Exactly, you are fifteen. You’re young enough to be my daughter. Now, I want you to get in that wagon and go home where you belong, or I just may have to treat you as if you were my daughter and give you a tanning,” he said, his hands on his hips and his feet apart.

“But can’t you see, this is where I belong, with you,” she said. She tried to hug him again, but he grabbed her by the arm and held her back.

“Rosemary, that’s enough! Where you belong is over my knee,” he said, glaring at her.

“What? You wouldn’t dare touch me,” she said.

“If you keep up this frivolous behavior I will, young lady.” His eyes were threatening and his face was hard. He took her by the arm and led her to the buckboard. “Now, climb up and get going.” His voice was controlled. She stood staring at him, her lower lip trembling. He seemed like a mountain towering over her with his hands on his hips. She almost said something, but stopped herself when she saw his eyes narrowing. She turned and climbed into the buckboard. He handed her the reins. She looked longingly into his eyes one more time before she left.

Ben wiped his brow and shook his head. He did feel sorry for her in a way, for he knew the feelings she was experiencing. At one time in his life, he too, had had a crush on a much older woman. At the tender age of fifteen, it was easy to mistake infatuation with love. He picked up his saw and went back to work.

****************************************

On the way home from lunch, Margaret decided to drop by Ben’s and invite him and the boys to the lake tomorrow. Ben was inside going over some paper work he had been neglecting for some time, when he heard a knock on the front door. He pulled his chair back and then strolled to the door.

“Margaret, what a pleasant surprise come in,” he said, smiling.

“Thank you Ben, but really I can’t stay. I wanted to come by and see if you and the boys would like to join us girls on a picnic down by the lake tomorrow,” she said.

“I think that’s a lovely idea. I’m sure the boys will be delighted,” he said.

“Good. Well, I have to get on home. I left the girls with a list of chores to do. I best go and make sure they got them done. We’ll look forward seeing you tomorrow.” She stepped into the carriage. “Walk on,” she said to the horses, and they started forward. Ben thought about Rosemary. She had lied when she said Margaret knew she was at his house.

*****************************

“Pa, can I go swimming?” asked Little Joe.

“Okay, but don’t go out too deep,” instructed Ben. He watched his youngest son make a quick dash towards the water. Though the lakes in this part of the country were always cold, Little Joe jumped in as if it was bath water. Ben enjoyed watching him splash around. Soon, Hoss and Adam joined him. Tess and Rosemary was busy helping Margaret set up the picnic. She had brought fried chicken, potato salad, homemade biscuits, and two apple pies for dessert. Hop Sing had insisted on contributing to the occasion, so he had made Ben carry some ham, cheese, bread, and a chocolate cake he had baked the day before.

“With Hoss going, you need extra food,” Hop Sing had said. Ben only grinned. If he would have refused, he knew he would have insulted him.

Once the table cloth had been spread out onto the ground and the lunch arranged, Margaret called the boys in from the water to eat. She didn’t have to ask them twice.

“Umm um, this sure is some good fried chicken, Mrs. Greene,” said Hoss. He took another hardy bite.

“Thank you Hoss, I’m glad you like it,” she answered.

“Everything’s delicious,” said Ben, wiping his mouth with a red checkered napkin.

“You make sure you tell Hop Sing how much we have enjoyed his food too,” said Margaret.

As they ate Rosemary had been very quiet. She had made sure she kept her distance from Ben. He had hurt her feelings yesterday, but today, she was just plain mad at him. No one had noticed how quiet she was since they were all so busy eating and engaged in conversation of their own.

“Ma is it all right if I go swimming now?” asked Tess, once lunch was over.

“I suppose so,” said Margaret.

Tess asked Rosemary if she would like to join her, but she turned her down, but then an idea popped into her head and she quickly changed her mind. She and Tess scurried away so they could change into their swimming clothes. Rosemary smiled as she changed.

“Why are you smiling like that?” asked Tess, noticing the awkward expression on her cousin’s face.

“Oh nothing, just having a good time is all,” said Rosemary. Actually she had come up with a scheme to trick Ben. Yesterday he told her he had no feelings for her; well she would put him to the test to see just how he really feels.“Race ya to the lake,” she blurted out, once she was dressed. The two girls ran to the edge of the water. “Oh, the water is so cold,” said Rosemary, wadding on the shore. Tess, like Joe, ran into the water like it was nothing.

“It’ll feel great once you get use to it. Come on, jump in,” urged Tess. Rosemary slowly began walking in deeper. Her lips were slightly blue and she was trembling. “Go under, it’ll help you get use to the water and then you won’t feel so cold,” said Tess. Hoss, Adam, and Little Joe came up from behind and ran into the water splashing her with the brisk water.

“Hey, watch what you’re doing,” she yelled angrily. Adam turned toward her.

“Quit being such a baby will you, and just dive in,” he said, with a smirk. He turned and started toward the rest of the group. That got her mad. She dove into the water all right, right on top of Adam’s back. He went under. When he popped up he gasped for air and was coughing from the water he had taken in. He frowned deeply when he saw the smile on her face. “Now you’re going to get it,” he said. He started splashing water into her face non-stop until she was choking on it. She got her upset when she saw all of them laughing at her.

“Ahhhhhhhh!” she yelled, and then swam away from them.

“Oh don’t be such a spoiled sport, we were only fooling around,” called Adam. When she swam even farther out, he just let her go. If she wanted to act in such a way, she wasn’t fun to play with anyway. Rosemary watched in the distance while they were playing tag in the water. It looked like a lot of fun, but her pride wouldn’t allow her to go over and join them. She glanced toward the shore. Ben and Margaret were lost in conversation. She decided to swim out farther so she could get his attention for herself. She would have to be careful though, if she acted too quickly then Adam or Hoss might try to come to her aid, and she wanted Ben to have the honor. She overheard Adam call out to her not to swim out too far, but she ignored him and kept on going.

Once she stopped and glanced over her shoulder, she saw she had swam quite a ways out. She looked at the shore again. Margaret had gotten up and was cleaning up the mess, and Ben had strolled down to the shore. The others were still playing their silly game. When she noticed Ben waving at her to come in, she knew this was the right moment. She began thrashing in the water wildly and screaming for help. She went under the water. At first Ben thought she was just playing, but as he peered closer, he could see her going under the water again and again screaming for help. He knew she was in trouble. He quickly removed his boots and then dived into the water swimming hard towards her. By this time, she had drawn the attention of Margaret and the others. Adam was swimming toward Rosemary too, but the rest of them had swum to shore as they watched. Adam was the last person Rosemary wanted to save her. She hoped Ben got to her first.

“Oh my God,” gasped Margaret, when she realized her niece was in trouble. Tess ran to her side to try and comfort her.

“Don’t worry Ma, between Adam and Mr. Cartwright, they’ll save her,” she said.

Though Adam had been in the water, Ben was a stronger swimmer and was close to her.

“Hang on Rosemary, I’m coming,” he yelled. She continued to splash and scream. Her plan was working, she had his full attention. He finally reached her and grabbed her just as she was about to go under again. “Got ya,” he said. At first she fought him to make it look real. “Calm down, you’re going to be all right. I’m here now, you’re safe.” She stopped struggling and allowed herself to relax against him. Ben began to return to the shore. Adam reached them and he helped his pa, though Rosemary didn’t appreciate it any. She closed her eyes while they swam trying to keep her head above water. Once near the shore, Ben picked her up and carried her to the shore and laid her on her back on the ground. She lay very still. Margaret and Tess ran to her side.

“Ben! Is she all right?” she asked in a panic. Fear was written all over her face. She looked down at her niece. She was slightly blue, but it was only because she was freezing, but they didn’t have to know that. “Oh Ben, is she, is she…,” but she couldn’t finish what she was thinking. She turned and started to cry.

Ben put his hand underneath Rosemary’s nose, checking to see if she was breathing. “She’s breathing Margaret,” he said. Margaret quickly turned and kneeled down next to her niece. She took her hand and rubbed it.

“She feels so cold,” she said. “Tess, go get the table cloth and bring it here. I’ll wrap her up in it.”

“Yes Ma.” Ben kept stroking Rosemary’s arms and face as he waited for Tess to return.

Ben glanced over his shoulders. “Hoss, get the horses hitched up to the wagon. Adam make sure the back is clear so I can lay her down,” ordered Ben. Little Joe wanted to be of some help too, so Ben told him to help Tess pack the carriage. He swiftly went to work. Ben bent down and picked Rosemary up and carried her to the back of the buckboard where he laid her. She still had her eyes shut, though secretly she was awake and aware of what was happening. It was hard for her not to giggle.

“Ben, are you sure she’s going to be all right?” asked Margaret. She was twisting her hands together out of nervousness.

“I’m sure she’ll be fine,” answered Ben, while covering Rosemary with a blanket.

“Why won’t she wake up?” Ben glanced up at Margaret.

“I’m taking her into town right now to see Doc Martin,” he said. “She’ll be fine.” He drew her close to him and held her as she gave way to tears. He just let her cry for a moment, but then pulled back. “I have to get going. Adam, you ride in the back with Rosemary, and Joe ride up with me. Hoss, you go with Margaret and Tess.”

“Yes Pa.” Once everyone was settled into their seats, they took off toward town. As soon as they arrived in Eagle Station, Adam jumped down and ran for the doctor. Ben pulled the buggy up in front of the doc’s office and climbed down. He gently scooped Rosemary into his arms and brought her into the office.

“Bring her here in the examining room,” said Dr. Martin. “What happened?” he asked, while checking her vital signs. They seemed to be normal. He got her out of her wet clothes and covered her with a sheet.

“She almost drowned in the lake,” answered Ben. Margaret came running in.

“Doctor, is she going to be all right?” she asked frantically.

“She seems to be all right, but what has me puzzled is that she hasn’t woken up. Her vitals look normal. I will keep her here tonight and watch her closely throughout the night,” said the doc. He gave Margaret a reassuring pat on the hands. She nodded in agreement. “If you like, you and Tess are welcome to stay in my spare bedroom.”

“I appreciate that. I couldn’t leave her until I know for sure she will be all right. Thank you,” she said.

When Rosemary heard what was going down, she became agitated. It was Ben who was supposed to stay with her. Her little scheme wasn’t going at all the way she planned it in her mind. She heard Margaret telling Ben bye.

“Thanks for all that you did Ben. I don’t know what I would have done without you there today,” she said.

“Don’t mention it. I’m glad I was there too. Well, I suppose I should get these boys home. I’ll come by in the morning to see how she’s coming along,” he said. He tipped his hat, and then he and the boys left for the Ponderosa.

After Rosemary was securely tucked in her bed, Doc Martin showed Margaret and Tess to their room. They cleaned up a bit, and then Margaret helped the doc to prepare some supper. Afterwards, they sat by the fire until the skies became dotted with millions of twinkling stars.

********************************************

The morning was gray and dreary with a light mist of rain falling. Though summer was well on its way, a cold chill was in the air. Rosemary woke up, pulled the covers back, and a shiver crept over her body. She rolled out of bed finding her clothes all dry and folded on top of the chair that was in the corner of the room. She quickly slipped into them and aimed for the living area where the fireplace was burning new logs. While she stood warming herself, she thought how she had tricked everyone, and she smiled. Now she only hoped her secret would remain just that, a secret.

“Rosemary, you’re up,” said Doc Martin, entering the room with a cup of coffee. Rosemary was startled and jumped at the sound of his voice. “I didn’t mean to frighten you dear. How do you feel?”

“I feel all right. What happened?” she asked, pretending to have no knowledge of the events.

“You don’t remember?”

“No sir.” He walked up to her and felt her head.

“You don’t have a fever. You almost drowned child.”

“Oh, now I remember. I was swimming in the deep water at the lake and, and,…, that’s all I can remember,” she said, so convincing.

“Well, you did pass out so I guess you wouldn’t remember anything after that would you?” he asked smiling.

“No, I guess not.”

“Are you hungry?”

“Oh yes sir!”

He brought her into the kitchen where he prepared her a nice hot breakfast. Margaret had been awoken by the aroma of coffee brewing. She was happy to see her niece sitting at the table eating heartily.

“Good morning Mrs. Greene, would you like a cup of coffee?” asked the doc.

“Yes please.” She pulled out a chair and sat next to Rosemary. “How are you feeling dear?”

“I feel just fine. This breakfast sure is tasty Doctor Martin,” she said, stuffing her mouth with a slice of bacon.

“Thank you. How about you, would you like the same?” he asked Margaret.

“Uh, no I don’t think so. Just some toast will do me fine.”

Soon Tess came strolling down the stairs. Unlike her mother, she agreed to a hearty breakfast too.

“Well, I suppose we should get going,” said Margaret once she finished her breakfast. “Thank you for everything.” She held out her hand to shake Doc’s.

“Glad to do it. Now little lady, you make sure you stay near the shore from now on, you hear?” he said, following them to the door. Rosemary turned and gave him a smile.

“That you can count on, Doc,” she answered. Then she turned and climbed into the carriage. Tess climbed in next to her.

“I think we’ll ride by Ben’s on the way home to let him know you’re all right,” said Margaret, slapping the reins causing the horses to jerk forward.

***************************************

“Well, it’s good to see that you doing so well. I was really worried about you,” said Ben.

“You were?” asked Rosemary, her hopes resurfacing.

“Of course I was. We all were, weren’t we boys?” he asked, glancing around to his sons.

“Yes sir.”

“I thought you were dead,” blurted out Little Joe.

“Joseph.” The look he gave his youngest caused him to wither and keep quiet.

“About yesterday, I’m sorry I teased you,” said Adam.

“Oh, that’s all right,” said Rosemary.

“Well girls, I think we should head on home. I’m sure Ben and the boys have plenty of work to do,” rising from the couch and walking toward the door. Ben walked them outside. Hoss strolled with Tess to the carriage. Little Joe excused himself and started doing his chores. The quicker he got them done, the quicker he could go fishing. Adam tipped his hat, and aimed for the barn.

Rosemary glanced up at Ben and gave him her sweetest smile. “I want to thank you for saving my life,” she said. She stood on her tip-toes and kissed him on the cheek and leaned into his chest and hugged him. “I’ll never forget what you did for me. It only proves that you really do love me after all,” she said, in a quiet voice. He immediately pulled her away.

“Come along Rosemary,” called Margaret, already in the carriage ready to leave.

“Yes ma’am. I hope we can see each other another time,” she said, but as she was walking away she turned and said, “alone.” Ben shut his eyes for a brief moment and just shook his head.

“I don’t think so Rosemary, I didn’t save you because I’m in love with you. It was because you were in trouble and needed help, that’s all. No more, no less,” he said, sternly. “Now, you listen to your aunt and get going.” Rosemary’s eyes widened. She turned in a huff and got into the carriage. He still thought of her as a child, well she would just have to prove him wrong once and for all.

*************************

She arose early the next morning and took the carriage into town before anyone in the house had gotten out of bed. She was sick and tired of people thinking of her as a child. She rode into Eagle Station and stopped in front of Jack’s hotel. She tied the horses to the hitching post, straightened out her hair and then climbed up the stairs leading inside the forbidden establishment. She approached the counter.

“May I help you?” asked Lily. She would be a beautiful woman if she didn’t cake on so much makeup. She had thick raven hair, which she allowed to flow down her back. Her wardrobe consisted of a tight, low-cut red satin dress trimmed in black that showed every curve on her body. She had on black stockings and wore a red feather in her hair and bright red lipstick on her full lips.

“I’m here to see Mr. Wolfe,” answered Rosemary. Lily looked Rosemary up and down before leaving her post and going upstairs to room number ten.

While she waited, Rosemary remembered the lecture Aunt Margaret had given her about Jack, but right now that didn’t seem to matter. She was here to show the world once and for all that she was a grown up lady and was quite capable of taking care of herself without someone constantly telling her what to do or how to do it.

“Who is it?” asked Jack, when he heard a knock on his door.

“It’s Lily. There’s a girl here to see you. She’s waiting in the lobby,” she said, through the door.

“Tell her I’ll be right there.” Lily sauntered back downstairs and told Rosemary to have a seat in the restaurant while she waited for Mr. Wolfe.

“Where’s the girl?” asked Jack, once he made his appearance.

“She’s in the restaurant.” Jack disappeared through the double door and a devilish grin swept across his face when he saw who it was.

“Well hello,” he said smoothly. “I didn’t expect to see you again.” He pulled out a chair and sat down. “So, what brings you here?”

“I want a job,” she said. His eyebrows went up.

“A job, what kind did you have in mind?” he asked. The bartender laid a cup of coffee on the table for Jack. “Thank you Frank.”

“I don’t know, anything you have available,” she said. He offered her some coffee, and she accepted readily.

“Why you want a job, I mean here?” he asked. He took a sip of his coffee.

“I’m tired of being treated like I’m just a little kid. I’m not you know, I’m fifteen. If you hire me, then certain people will see that I really am grown.”

“Certain people, do you mean your aunt?”

“Well, yes but others too. So, do you have a job for me or not?” she sipped her coffee.

“Fifteen you said?” he asked, rubbing his chin with his right hand. He thought to himself she was a little young, but then again the men seemed to like the young ones, and then he thought about Margaret and how this would make her beyond furious. A sinister smile crawled across his face like a centipede. “Fifteen, well, I do believe that’s the perfect age. I suppose I could use you to greet the guest as they arrive in town. You know, just act real friendly and show them that pretty smile of yours and invite them to stay here in the finest hotel around. Are you interested?” he asked.

“Yes sir!” she said with enthusiasm.

“Wonderful, so when can you start?”

“Right now.”

“Fine, but first we need to find the proper kind of dress for you. Come with me, Lily will fix you right up,” he said, standing up and motioning for Rosemary to follow him. They strolled to the front desk where Lily was working on some paper work. “Lily.” She glanced up from her work. “Rosemary here will be starting work immediately. She’ll be greeting the customers. I was hoping you could get her the proper attire and maybe give her something to bring out that beautiful smile of hers.” He cupped his hand underneath her chin when he said those words causing her to blush.

“I’d be delighted. Come with me Rosemary, I can fix you right up.” Rosemary followed Lily up the stairs.

Jack proceeded outside and moved her carriage to the side of his hotel out of the way of the stagecoach that would be arriving later.

********************************

“Tess, have you seen Rosemary this morning?” asked Margaret, putting the eggs on the table.

“No ma’am. Maybe she’s out in the barn doing her chores.”

“Would you go check for me, and tell her breakfast is ready?”

“Sure.”

As soon as Tess opened the barn door, it was obvious that the carriage and horses were missing. She turned on her heels and ran back to the house.

“Ma, the carriage, it’s gone!”

“Gone, where in the world could that child have gotten off to!?” she asked, not expecting an answer.

“Maybe she rode over to the Cartwright’s. She’s wanted Hoss to teach her to ride a horse,” suggested Tess.

“You’re probably right. But she shouldn’t have left without my permission. I’ll have to give her a good talking to when she gets home. Come sit and eat your breakfast while it’s hot, and if she isn’t back by the time you’re finished, would you ride over there and tell her to come home?” said Margaret.

Rosemary didn’t arrive back home, so Tess saddled her horse and headed for the Ponderosa.
“Morning Mr. Cartwright,” said Tess, as she rode into the yard. She climbed down off her horse. She glanced around, but didn’t see the carriage.

“Morning Tess, what brings you out so early? Everything all right?” asked Ben.

“Oh sure, I just came by to see if Rosemary was here, but I don’t see the carriage.”

“No, she’s not here,” said Ben. “Were you expecting her to be here for any particular reason?”

“No, not exactly, when we got up this morning we discovered she had left with the carriage, and we just assumed she came here. You know she’s wanted to learn how to ride.”

“Well, she didn’t come here.”

“Ok, well thanks. I best get back home.”

“Adam and I have to ride into town this morning. If we happen to run into her, I’ll be sure to send her home,” he said.

“Thanks, I’ll be sure to tell Ma. That will help her not to worry so much.” Tess climbed onto her horse and trotted toward home.

Adam walked outside just as Tess was leaving. “What was she doing here?” he asked, shoving the last piece of biscuit into his mouth.

“She’s looking for Rosemary. It seems she took the carriage without permission and Margaret is worried about her whereabouts. While we’re in town, we can see if she’s there and send her packing if she is,” said Ben.

“You know Pa, that girl is nothing but a peck of trouble,” said Adam, putting on his black hat. Ben didn’t answer, but by his expression Adam knew he agreed. “I’ll go saddle the horses.” Ben had to pay their monthly bill, pick up the mail, and Adam was mostly interested in looking at the new horses Maurice was supposed had gotten in. The Ponderosa could use a few more good horses. Little Joe came running out the front door with Hoss not too far behind.

“Come here you little…,” but he didn’t finish his sentence when he noticed his pa standing near by.

“Joseph, are you teasing your brother again?” asked Ben, in his stern voice.

“I was only playing Pa, but he has to take everything so serious,” said Little Joe.

“Causing the pepper to spill out all over my plate ain’t what I call playing. Pa, he ruined my breakfast,” whined Hoss.

“Joseph, I don’t want to hear you doing that again, you understand?”

“Yes Pa.”

“Now, you both have chores to do. Hoss, Adam and I are going into town. While I’m away Hop Sing will be in charge. I expect to see the chores done by the time I return. Joseph, the chicken coop needs a good sweeping out. That should keep you out of mischief while I’m gone.” Little Joe’s face screwed up, but he didn’t dare say a word.

“Pa, the horses are ready,” said Adam, walking out of the barn with both animals. Ben sauntered toward the horses and as he was mounting Buck he reminded the boys of their responsibilities. Then he and Adam headed for town.

************************

Rosemary couldn’t believe she was staring at herself in the long mirror Lily had provided for her. She was wearing a low-cut blue satin dress which showed what cleavage she had, black lace hose with high heels, a string of pearls around her long neck, and her face was painted to where she looked twice her age.

“Well, what do you think?” asked Lily, smiling quite pleased with her creation.

“Wow, I, I look so much older, but I love it,” answered Rosemary, twirling herself around in front of the mirror.

“Good, let’s go down stairs and see what Mr. Wolfe thinks,” said Lily.

Needless to say, Jack was quite pleased with Lily’s latest transformation. “You went from a caterpillar in the cocoon, to a beautiful colorful butterfly,” he said, holding both her hands. Rosemary blushed. She felt so grownup. “Well, are you ready to go to work?”

“Yes sir,” she said with the biggest smile she could muster. He held her hand and led her to the front entrance of the hotel.

“Now, when the stage comes in, all you have to do is smile and be real friendly to the people. Invite them to stay here. Make sure you mention we have entertainment and comfort for those who choose to stay in our hotel,” he said.

“All right, when will the stage be here?” she asked.

“There should be one coming within the half hour,” he said, glancing at his pocket watch. He patted her on the arm and went back inside leaving her standing just outside the main entrance. As people strolled by and saw her, some were friendly, others were rude. Most all the women would cross the street before they even reached the hotel. And when they saw Rosemary waving at the people, they would shake their heads in disgust and whisper among themselves. A few of the men who passed gave her a friendly smile or whistle. It made her feel like a real lady. She would wave at them and give them a sweet smile in return.

Before long the stagecoach came barreling down the road full speed, causing a cloud of white dust form from behind. It came to an abrupt halt in front of the hotel. Six passengers stepped out. As they did, Rosemary approached each one and welcomed them to Eagle Station and encouraged them to stay at Jack’s hotel and guaranteed them the best comfort and entertainment found in these parts. A couple of men were alone and so they decided to stay there, but the rest had relatives waiting for them. Rosemary was quite pleased with herself that she was able to get two customers for Mr. Wolfe on the first try.

“I hope the view is as pretty inside as it is outside,” said one of the men, as he walked past Rosemary giving her a wink and a smile. Jack strolled outside and stood next to Rosemary. He wrapped his arm around her.

“You’re doing a fine job,” he said, looking down at her. It made her feel special.

“Thanks. Mr. Wolfe, can I go and get something to drink? It gets kind of hot out here in this dress,” she asked.

“Sure, but be sure to come right back, and by the way, call me Jack all right?” he said smooth as butter.

“All right, Jack it is,” She said grinning. She left her post and went inside.

Ben and Adam rode into town about this time. They hitched their horses in front of the Trading Post and went inside.

“Good morning Ben,” said Eli. “Adam.”

“Morning,” said Ben, pulling out the money from his pant pocket. “I want to finish paying my bill and also get a bag of nails if you have them.”

“Yes, we just got the shipment in yesterday,” said Eli. “Haven’t seen you for a while, how are things going with you and the boys?”

“We’re fine, just busy is all.”

“Pa, I’m going to head over to see the horses, meet you over there all right?” said Adam.

“Uh, oh sure son, I’ll be there in a bit.”

“Here you are Ben,” said Eli, handing him the bag of nails. “Hope next time you bring the younger boys. Ruth and I would love to see them.”

“I’ll be sure to do that. Oh, by the way, have you happened to see Margaret’s niece Rosemary here in town this morning?”

“No, I can’t say I have,” said Eli, rubbing his chin as if trying to recollect if he had or not.

“Ok, Well, I have to get to the post office. Thanks.” Ben turned toward the door and tipped his hat at a woman entering the store as he was leaving. While walking he scanned the streets to see if he saw Rosemary, but he saw nothing.

Rosemary returned to the entrance of the hotel and began smiling and waving at anyone who happened to pass by. Two men had just left Shelby’s saloon and were staggering toward the hotel. They were both drunk. One of the men looked as though he hadn’t had a bath in quite sometime with greasy hair and a straggly beard. The other one had his two front teeth missing, no doubt caused from one too many brawls at the saloon. They noticed Rosemary standing near the doorway of the hotel.

“Well lookie here Cal, the scenery is gettin’ purtier everyday,” said the man with the beard. They stumbled their way up the steps toward her. She gave them a nervous smile as they got closer. “Hello you sweet young thing, where did you come from?” asked the bearded man. His face was so close to hers, she could smell his offensive breath. “How would you like to bring me a little companionship?” He moved in closer. The other man was too drunk to really know what was going on. He was just trying to stay standing.

“I, I, I d-don’t think so,” she said, nervously backing up from him.

“Come on baby girl, don’t play so hard to get,” he slurred. He grabbed her around the waist and tried to kiss her. She began hitting him and yelling.

“Stop it! Stop it, let me go!” She tried her best to fight him off, but he was too strong. “I like wildcats,” he said, through gritted teeth. Adam walked outside after looking at the horses and was waiting for Pa, when he heard the scream. He ran towards the commotion. He was shocked when he saw Rosemary being man handled by these two drunken men. The bearded man attempted to kiss her again, but before he could, Adam pulled him off her and threw a punch square center of his nose.

“Adam!” she cried.

“Why you little punk,” yelled the man, holding his nose. When he took his hand away, he saw blood. That only made him angrier. He charged Adam and before long the two of them were brawling in the middle of the street right in front of the hotel. Ben stepped out of the post office shoving a letter he had received from San Francisco into his vest pocket and heard cheering and screaming from a crowd that had formed around the brawling pair. He glanced in the direction of the noise and couldn’t believe his eyes. He scowled and ran towards the crowd to see if there was anything he could do. He pushed his way through the crowd and couldn’t believe his eyes. Adam was fighting! He attempted to stop the fight, but the other man decided to get in on the fight and threw a punch at Ben. It didn’t take long before Ben had connected with the man’s jaws. Now all four of them were feuding, but the two men were taking the brunt of the beating, since they were too drunk to really defend themselves properly.

Jack appeared at the door. “What’s going on here?” he yelled, but when he noticed it was Ben and Adam, he hushed and joined the crowd cheering, but he was cheering for the two drunks in hopes they would win the battle. Ben finally took one of the men and slammed his fist into his right eye so hard it caused him to stagger backwards, and he fell right into the horse’s trough. The crowd of people laughed and pointed at the man. He tried to get up, but he was so drunk he just didn’t have the strength. He just lay in the water moaning while holding his hand over his eye. The bearded man had pinned Adam to the ground, but Ben came up from behind and yanked him off. He gave him a final blow. The man was knocked out cold. Once the fight was over, Ben took long strides toward Adam.

“Now son, would you mind explaining to me what this was all about?” he asked anger in his voice.

“Rosemary, she’s here Pa. These two men were after her. I was only defending her,” he said, rubbing his jaw.

“Rosemary’s here? Where?” asked Ben. Adam pointed to Jack’s hotel. A deep scowl formed across Ben’s forehead as he pushed through the crowd. He stopped dead in his tracks when he saw Rosemary standing on the top step dressed like a hussy with Jack’s arms around her. He began to boil inside especially when he saw that sinister smile.
“Rosemary, what do you think you are doing?” he asked, each word spoken separately and with force.

“I am working for Jack,” she said. Jack held her tighter and glanced down at her giving her his charming smile.

“Not anymore, you’re not,” said Ben. He took long strides up the stairs. It was as if he was a bull and Jack was the red cape. He ran right for him, pushed Rosemary out of the way, and grabbed Jack in a way to where the two of them fell to the ground. Ben began to pommel Jack good, and when he was through he pulled him off the ground and shook him.

“She’s just a little girl, Jack,” he said, his eyes dark and threatening.

“I am not!” yelled Rosemary. She was glad the Cartwright’s had come to her rescue, but Ben had no right calling her a little girl. She wouldn’t be working here if she were.

“YOU, be quiet! I’ll tend to you later,” he ordered. He brought his attention back to Jack. “Why didn’t you just send her on home? You have brought nothing but corruption to Eagle Station since the day you’ve arrived, and I for one, am sick of it.”

“That’s your opinion,” said Jack, flatly. “Look around there is many people in THIS community who enjoy coming here.”

“Maybe so, but I think there are more who would be more than happy to see you shut down and move out of town.” Ben was furious. Jack only laughed and turned to go back inside.

“Come on Rosemary, you can start back to work after this riffraff disperses,” said Jack, taking her arm and leading her inside. Ben was up the stairs swifter than a gazelle.

“Let go of her arms, Jack,” he demanded. Jack stared at him long and hard, but after a few moments of contemplating what Ben might do to him, he let go. Ben grabbed her arm and pulled her down the stairs. She tried to fight him, but his grip was tight. She wanted to stay with Jack.

“Come back any time little lady, you’ll always have a job with Jack,” he said without shame. Ben continued to pull Rosemary as quickly as possible.

“Where’s your carriage?” asked Ben.

“It’s around the side of the hotel. Let me go, I can walk on my own,” she said hatefully.

“Oh no, I’m not taking any chances.” He tightened his grip and pulled her along until they reached the carriage. “Now young lady, get up in that carriage and don’t you move a muscle,” he barked. Adam was sauntering over toward them with the horses.

“Those horses weren’t that great anyway,” he said, trying not to sound disappointed. He handed his father the reins to Buck. He knew they would have to get Rosemary out of town, and so the horses would have to wait for another day.

“I’ll ride with Rosemary, why don’t you ride back to the ranch. Hop Sing will know what to do with those cuts,” said Ben.

“Yes sir.”

Ben took Buck’s reins and tied them to the back of the carriage. He then jumped into the seat next to Rosemary. He slapped the reins against the horse’s rump causing the carriage to jerk forward. Jack tipped his hat as they rode past. Anger was written all over Ben’s face. His eye were narrowed, lips pursed, and he frowned deeply. They rode without saying a word for some time, but then Rosemary broke the silence.

“Ben…” she started, but was immediately interrupted by Ben. He turned his head and glared at her.

“It is Mr. Cartwright, to you young lady,” he said, in a deep and serious tone. She closed her mouth not finishing her thought, and they rode the rest of the way lost in their own private thoughts.

*******************************

“Adam, what happened to you?” asked Hoss, when he saw his brother ride up into the yard.

“What’s it look like?” asked Adam, sarcastically jumping down from Beauty.

“It looks to me like you got the tar beaten out of you,” stated Hoss.

“Well younger brother, that’s where you’re wrong. I won the fight. Pa and I found Rosemary at Jack’s place, and I got into a fight with a couple of drunks, and Pa beat the stuffing out of Jack,” he answered. “Where’s Hop Sing?”

“In the kitchen, Pa really fought Jack?” asked Hoss, following close behind Adam.

“Yes.”

“Man, I wish I could have been there to see that. Sounds like I missed a whole heap of fun.” Adam turned and glanced over his shoulder at his brother and scowled.

“I would have gladly taken your place. Getting a black eye isn’t my idea of fun.” They both disappeared inside the house.

*****************************

Tess was outside hanging clean laundry on the line when the carriage pulled into the yard. She was surprised at the appearance of Ben. His left eye was swelling, he had a bloody cut at the corner of his mouth, and his clothes were filthy. And when she saw Rosemary, her mouth fell open. She dropped the sheet she had in her hand back into the basket and ran towards the house.

“Ma, Mr. Cartwright’s here,” she called. Margaret came from the kitchen wearing her working apron. She wiped her hands on the kitchen towel she had in her hands. “Ma, he has Rosemary with him.” She tossed the towel down on a small table in the hall and ran outside. She stopped abruptly at what she saw. Ben had a firm hold on Rosemary’s arm pulling her toward the house.

“Ben, what happened to you? And Rosemary, what on earth have you been doing? Where did you get those clothes? Get in the house this instant!” Here face reddened with embarrassment and anger. Ben released his grip so she could obey her aunt.

“I’ll explain everything Margaret,” said Ben, brushing some left over dirt from his trousers.

“Come inside Ben, I’ll get you a cup of coffee and something to clean that cut on your mouth.” When they entered the house and Margaret saw Rosemary standing talking to Tess, her anger resurfaced. “Young lady, get up those stairs this minute, wash that makeup off your face and put on something decent,” she ordered, pointing her finger toward the stairs. Rosemary opened her mouth to say something, but Margaret raised her hands. “I would advise you to not say a word. Just do as I ask, now!” Rosemary turned and ran up the stairs. “And stay in your room until I call you,” yelled Margaret, just as Rosemary slammed the door to her room shut.

Margaret gave Ben a wet cloth so he could clean up his face. He proceeded to tell her everything that had happened in town. He told her about the two men who were trying to take advantage of Rosemary and about the fight between him and Jack. He also told her about her coming on to him and the little visit she had paid him a couple of days ago.

“Oh Ben, I’m so sorry, what am I going to do with that girl?” she asked, distraught.

“If she were my niece, I promise you one thing, she wouldn’t be sitting comfortably for at least a week,” he said with his hands on his hips. Margaret stared out the window. She felt just horrible and was embarrassed over her niece’s actions. After a few minutes she twirled around and faced Ben.

“I have a favor to ask of you,” she said.

“All right.”

“I would like you to be the one to discipline her,” she said.

“You what, why me?” he asked, surprised.

“With all that you’ve told me and the way she’s been behaving with you, I honestly believe she would get the point a whole lot quicker if you punished her, than if I tried.”

Ben was hesitating at first, but Margaret kept insisting, so he finally agreed. He was angry enough to punish her that was for sure. He didn’t like the idea of punishing other people’s children, but maybe in this case it was exactly what was needed, at least he hoped so.

“Well, I think it’s about time we hear from Rosemary,” said Margaret. She strolled to the bottom of the stairs and called for her to come downstairs. When she made her appearance she looked liked the child she was really was. “Sit down, you have some explaining to do young lady,” said Margaret. Rosemary only glared at her aunt and crossed her arms across her chest in defiance. “Since it’s obvious you’re not going to start, I will.” Margaret paced for a moment, and then stopped in front of the chair. She bent down so she was face to face with her niece. “I want you to explain to me why you were in town this morning, and why you had the gall to go near Jack’s hotel after I forbid you from ever getting near his place again.” She stood up and placed her hands on her hips waiting for the answer, but none came.

“Rosemary, answer Margaret,” said Ben sternly. She glared up at him and her eyes narrowed.

“You can’t tell me what to do,” she stated flatly. He rushed toward her, bent down and looked straight into her eyes.

“Oh yes I can, now do as I say,” he said in a controlled voice. He stayed in that position until she began to feel uncomfortable. She realized he was serious.

“Ok, ok. You want to know why I was in town, all right I’ll tell you. I’m sick and tired of everyone thinking I’m just a little girl. I’m not, I’m a woman,” she said. After a few minutes of silence she blurted, “Jack thinks of me as a woman.”

“That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. I have already explained to you what Jack is all about. He doesn’t think of you as a woman I assure you of that. He knew he could use you for his purpose because you are young and inexperienced. A woman would have seen right through him,” said Margaret.

“How could you say that? He didn’t use me. I wanted the job Aunt Margaret. I knew exactly what I was doing, and besides that I was enjoying it,” she said, her voice rising with each word.

“Oh really, if you are so grown up, why didn’t you know how to handle those two drunkards who attempted to man handle you? You had no clue of what to do! If Ben and Adam hadn’t shown up, I hate to even think of what might have happened to you,” yelled Margaret, pointing her finger at her niece. Rosemary stood up from the chair.

“I didn’t need MR. CARTWRIGHT, or anyone else to come to my rescue. I could have handled it, if they would have given me the chance,” she said hatefully. It was plain that they weren’t getting through to her.

“I have heard enough out of you,” said Margaret. “The bottom line is that I forbid you to go near that hotel, but you chose to disobey me. And as a result, Ben and Adam had to come to your aid whether you want to admit it or not, causing them to get into a fight and getting injured and another thing, Ben has informed me of how you have been behaving around him and how you snuck off the other day to his place while I went to town. I think you owe him an apology.”

“What? Apologize! No, I won’t, I’ll never,” she yelled. She was embarrassed that her aunt found out about her feelings toward Ben, but she wasn’t going to be treated like a child and be made to apologize for having such feelings. She peered at Ben with pure defiance in her eyes. She was angry and hurt that he had told. Margaret gave Ben the look, which meant it, was time for him to take action. Rosemary was full of insolence, and it was about time she found out just who was in charge here and who the adult was and who the child was.

“Rosemary, follow me,” he demanded, his voice full of anger.

“Where to?” she asked.

“The barn, I’m going to give you a very necessary talking to,” he said. She wasn’t aware of the term, “necessary talking to” that he used when he was speaking of a tanning. She thought he wanted to lecture her, and she wasn’t about to stand for it.

“I’m not going anywhere with you, Mr. Cartwright.”

“”We’ll see about that.” He took long strides toward her. He snatched her by her upper arm and pulled her out the front door.

“Let go of me,” she demanded, struggling to escape his hold on her. But his grip held tight just as a lion holds its prey. He dragged her into the barn and after closing the door behind them he let her go. She rubbed her arm.

“Young lady, I’ve had just about enough of your nonsense I’m going to take,” he said. “You have behaved disrespectfully toward your aunt and toward me, and I will not allow you to continue in this manner. You think you are grown, but your behavior is that of a child’s, so I think it’s about time you find out just where you stand around here,” he said. He unbuckled his belt and pulled it out of their loops with one quick snap of his hand. He had, had plenty of practice with his own sons. Rosemary’s eyes grew round like two saucers, and she backed away from him.

“W, what are you doing?” she asked, nervously.

“You are going to get the tanning of your life, something you’ve needed since the day you arrived,” he answered, stepping closer to her. She kept backing away until she backed into a bail of hay. She tried to run, but he caught her. She kicked and screamed all the way to the barrel he had flipped upside down. He sat down, and then pulled her over his knee. Her arms were flailing, so he pinned them between his legs. He wanted to make sure she felt the full impact of the belt on her behind. He lifted up his hand and wailed into her. After five licks he stood her up. She was sobbing. She was so angry that all good sense seemed to fly right out of her head, for she took a swing and hit him in the face.
“All right,” he said. He pulled her back over his knee and administered five extra licks. After he stood her up the second time she settled down. She had never been so humiliated. “Now, I want you to start acting your age, which is a fifteen year old girl. And if I ever hear about you going anywhere near Jack’s hotel again, you won’t have to worry about what Margaret might do to you, because I promise I will give you a tanning worse than you got today, do you understand me?” She nodded her head. “I expect your behavior to make a complete turn around or we’ll be meeting here again, and I really don’t think you want that,” he said, while replacing his belt on his pants. “Now, I want you to go into that house and apologize to Margaret for your ill manners.” He opened the door and waited until she walked out. He followed her into the house. When she saw Margaret, she stood and stared at her. She was furious at her for allowing Mr. Cartwright to punish her, but at the same time guilt washed over her and tears filled her eyes. When she didn’t say anything, Ben gently touched her shoulders, which caused her to flinch. She took a deep breath, cupped her hands together and took a few steps forward until she was face to face with her aunt.

“Aunt Margaret, I, I want to apologize for the way I behaved,” she said as humbly as she could muster up. When Margaret saw the tears, she pulled Rosemary close and held her to her chest.

“Apology accepted child,” she said, hugging her trying to reassure her of how much she loved her.

“I really am sorry,” she cried.

“I know you are,” she said, soothingly stroking Rosemary’s hair. Ben cleared his throat.

“Well, I best be going,” he said. He stopped before walking out the front door. “Remember what we talked about Rosemary. Margaret, if you need me again, I’ll be here.”

“Thank you Ben.” She had her arms wrapped around Rosemary’s shoulder. He put on his hat and walked outside. Tess was on the front porch. She had quickly excused herself when Rosemary had returned from the barn. From the sounds that had come from the barn, she knew she never wanted to be on the receiving end of one of Mr. Cartwright’s necessary talks. “See you Tess,” said Ben. Tess about jumped out of her skin.

“Bye.” She watched him mount Buck and ride away.

******************************

Two weeks had passed and to Margaret’s surprise Rosemary had done exactly as she was told. She had added two more weeks of restriction on the ranch along with extra chores, but Rosemary did them without any complaints what so ever. Margaret thought between the tanning and whatever Ben had said to her had worked.

“Girls, I think I’ll ride over to see if Ben and the boys can come over for supper tonight,” she said over breakfast. She wanted to show her gratitude for all they had done for them. “I would like for you to straighten up the house while I’m gone.”

“Yes Ma,” said Tess.

They got busy dusting and sweeping out the house while Margaret was out. Rosemary felt anxious. After all, the last time she saw Mr. Cartwright; it wasn’t exactly a pleasant visit. She worked diligently at her tasks that were assigned to her. She didn’t want Tess to complain to her ma that she hadn’t done her share.

Ben had readily accepted the invitation and told Margaret they would be there at six o’clock.

“Girls, the Cartwright’s should be arriving soon,” called out Margaret from the kitchen. “Is the table set yet?”

“I’m almost done,” said Tess. Margaret frowned and strolled into the dining room wiping her hands with here apron.

“Where’s Rosemary?” she asked.

“I’m not sure, she said she had something to do, and ran outside,” answered Tess.

“She didn’t tell you what?”

“No ma’am.” She placed the last few pieces of silverware around the table. Margaret glanced outside.

“This is not the time for her to go running off.” She saw Ben and the boys riding up the lane toward the house. “The Cartwright’s are here.” She quickly took her apron off and tossed it into the pantry, and then straightened her hair before stepping outside to greet them.

“Hi Margaret,” said Ben.

“Hello. My, Little Joe I do believe you’ve grown an inch since the last time I saw you,” she said. Little Joe grinned from ear to ear. More than anything he wanted to be tall like his two older brothers. “Just tie the horses there and come on in, supper is all ready.” They dismounted and headed toward the house. Just as Margaret was about to shut the door, she noticed Rosemary running towards the house. She opened the door and walked outside.

“Where have you been, young lady?” she asked, with her hands on her hips. “And just look at your dress, it’s filthy.”

“I know, and I’m sorry.” She glanced down, trying to wipe the dirt off.

“What have you been doing? You were supposed to be helping set the table for supper,” stated Margaret in an angry tone.

“I know, but I was just…,” she stopped dead in her tracks when Ben stepped outside.

“Anything wrong?” he asked.

“Rosemary was about to tell me what she’s been up to.” Ben raised his brows and gave Rosemary the same look he had given her before the two of them had taken a trip to the barn. She gulped. “Well, I’m waiting,” said Margaret.

“I was only picking some flowers for the table, but fell near the lake crushing the flowers I had already picked and then ruining my dress.” She glanced at Ben to see what his reaction was. He tried to look stern, but he slowly grinned and then laughed out loud. Soon Margaret found the humor in the whole thing too, and had Rosemary run upstairs to get cleaned up and change.

“Something sure smells mighty good,” said Hoss, licking his lips.

“We’re having a nice roast with all the fixings,” said Margaret. “Hope you came with an appetite.”

“Oh yes ma’am, I sure did.” He gave her his gapped tooth smile.

Soon Rosemary came barreling down the stairs in a new dress. She slowed down when she hit the bottom step and saw the slight frown on Margaret’s face. “Well, come on in the dining room everyone and sit down.” They followed her, and she told each one where to sit. Tess and Rosemary helped bring out the food before they took their seats. The meal was lovely as well as the conversation. After dinner, Ben and Margaret went into the parlor for a glass of brandy.

“So, other than the little incident today, how’s it been going with Rosemary?” asked Ben, taking a sip of his peach brandy.

“Ben, she’s been a totally different child. She’s been polite and quick to obey. I don’t know what you said to her, but I’m grateful,” she said.

“Glad to hear it. This brandy is very nice,” he said, taking a second taste.

“I had it shipped here from San Francisco. Glad you’re enjoying it.”

They talked for a while before joining the kids in the living room. Ben observed Rosemary for a bit. She was talking a mile a minute and laughing over Hoss’ jokes. She was behaving as the young girl she was. It was refreshing to see. He walked up to them and asked what was so funny. Rosemary looked up and gave him a sweet smile, and this time it was just that, a genuine smile, the kind a child would give to a friend.

The End

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