Marsha Colyer

 

marshacolyer@hotmail.com

 

 

YOUR DESTINY AWAITS

 

     It was a dark and stormy night.(A/N.  Sorry, I always wanted to start a story like that!).  Joe and Hoss, having ventured into Virginia City earlier in the day on a scheduled supply run, were stranded at the International House waiting for the unexpected storm to abate.  When they left the ranch, the skies had been clear, and only a slight breeze was blowing.  Now, it was storming so severely that Joe didn’t even suggest going to the Silver Dollar down the street!  The animals were safely bedded down at the livery.  All they could do was sit in the hotel and watch it the rain beat against the windows. After a few hours, they decided to just get dinner, get a room, and go to bed.

 

     Back at the ranch, Adam and Ben were enjoying a quiet night in front of the fire.  They sat in companionable silence, seemingly lost in thought.  Adam was pretending to read, Ben just sat, watching his son.

 

     “Penny for you thoughts son.” Ben asked, his voice cutting through the silence like the foghorn Elizabeth so often referred to.  Adam didn’t notice.  “Son?”  No response.  Yoo Hoo.”  Nothing… “HopSing is standing there ready to bean you with a frying pan…” Still nothing… “Hoss and Joe just danced by the window doing the can can…”

 

     Adam started slightly.  “What?  Oh sorry pa, I was reading.  Guess I got engrossed.”

 

     Ben laughed slightly.  “Adam, you haven’t so much as turned a page in over 45 minutes!  Now, can I help or is it something you need to work out yourself…(again)?”

 

     “I was just thinking about…Wait a minute.  Did you just say something about Hop Sing doing a can can?”

 

     “Close enough.  Just wanted to see if you were listening.”  He chuckled softly.  “Anyway, why were you so lost in thought?”

 

     “Well.”  Adam started, placing the pretty much forgotten book beside his chair.  “There’s something I’ve been wanting to ask for a while, but couldn’t around Hoss and Joe.  They aren’t here now so…When and how exactly did you meet Mickey*”.

 

     Ben smiled a knowing little smile as his mind drifted back over the years.

 

     “It was before I met your mother.” He began, placing his pipe back on its stand beside the chair.  “It was the last summer I spent with Uncle John before I went to sea.  I remember I’d just…”

 

35 YEARS EARLIER, THE HOME OF JOHN CARTWRIGHT

 

     “Benjamin don’t forget to restock the firewood for the light house after you refill the lamps.”

 

     “Yes Uncle John.”  Young Benjamin called as he hefted the oilcans from the floor after filling them.  “I’ve only done this a thousand times, don’t think I’ll forget.”  He muttered under his breath.  He didn’t dare say it aloud.  He knew his uncle would not tolerate such sass.

 

     “What was that young man?”  Came a female voice directly behind him.  Ben almost lost his hold on the oilcans.

 

     “Sorry Aunt Emiline.”  He smiled sheepishly.  “Just thinking out loud.”

 

     “Well, you did forget once, and he had to cover your forgetfulness before the snow storms came that night.”

 

     “Auntie, I’m sixteen years old now!  I’m a man not a small child!  Besides, I was only eleven at the time!” 

 

     “Enough of your sass young man.”  She said as she swatted him on the seat of the pants with a wooden spoon.  “Go finish your chores like the old man you profess to be so we can get on with dinner.”

 

     “Yes ma’am”.  He laughed; kissing her on the cheek on the way out the door, barely dodging the spoon aimed at his retreating backside.

 

     Two hours later, Ben tossed the last of the split wood into the wood box beside the lighthouse fireplace.   With the feeling of satisfaction for a job well done, he picked up the oilcans and headed for the door.  In his haste, he tripped over his own feet on the way down the last steps, hitting his head on the railing on the way down.  On it’s way to the ground; his unconscious body couldn’t exactly dodge the double-edged axe sticking out of the chopping block at the base of the stairs.  The edge connected with his right calf, leaving a six-inch gash.  Ben lay on the ground in a crumpled heap for what seemed like hours.  He slowly became aware of a female voice close beside him, examining his leg.

 

     “Oh wow.”  He heard as he felt this stranger tugging his pant leg up to his knee.  “You really did a number on your leg.  Guess I’d better do something about it before you really do bleed to death.”  She said as she produced bandages from the bag she was carrying.  The familiarity she was showing brought Ben back to full consciousness.

 

     “What do you think you’re doing madam?”  He asked weakly as he half-heartedly tried to push her hands away from his leg.

 

     She continued working, taking no notice of the weak efforts to move her.

 

     “I’m trying to fix the leg you tried to amputate, so hush up and let me work!  I ain’t about to lose my first case before it even starts!”  She lectured as she continued to work.

 

     Ben was so surprised by her brashness, he couldn’t think of an appropriate response.

 

     “Now” she said as she finished and pulled his pant leg back into position.  “We gotta talk Ben.”

 

     From his position on the floor, Ben just looked at her.  “How did you know my name?”

 

     She just laughed.  “I know more about you than you do bub!” 

 

     “Such as?”  He challenged.  His leg was seriously hurting and he was in no mood for riddles.

 

     “Such as I know that right now you’re thinking you’re going to lay here and bleed to death before Uncle John comes to find you.  You’re also thinking about giving up because it’s hopeless.  Getting close?”

 

     “How did you do that?”  He asked suspiciously.

 

     “It’s a power I was granted by my boss when I first took on your family’s case.”

 

     “You mean Uncle John and Aunt Emiline?”

 

     The girl hedged,  Ah no…your other family…the one you haven’t met yet.”

 

     “Excuse me?”  He asked skeptically.  This strange female was making less sense by the minute!  The blood loss must more serious than he thought.

 

     “Never mind, I’m getting ahead of myself.”  She said as she stood and reached for his hand.  “Come on, like I said earlier, we’ve got talking to do.”

 

     “I can not go anywhere with you!  Now would you PLEASE go get some help before I bleed to death?”

 

     “Trust me!  Take my hand and you’ll be just fine!  Like I said before, I ain’t about to lose my very first client!”  She inched ever closer to the increasingly skeptical teenager before her.

 

     She withdrew her hand and sat back on her knees thinking.  “They told me your family had a four foot wide stubborn streak…guess they weren’t lying!”

 

     “They…who?”

 

     “The agency I work for, A.N.D.Y.  I’m here to show but a small glimpse of what lies before you if you kick that stubborn streak into high gear and fight like heck to stay alive.”  She bent down, reaching for his hand again.  “Now…are ya gonna trust me or not?”

 

     Ben sat against the railing, not moving.  “Madam, if you still persist with this inane, preposterous tale!  Why should I trust you?  Why do you want to help me?”

 

     “Because I can!”  She said her gaze never leaving his eyes.  “Now” she continued, “come on old man.”  This time she didn’t wait for him to respond, she just grabbed his hand and stood up.

 

     “Madam, you have to be the most stubborn, bull headed tree…stump….”  Ben’s voice failed him as he noticed they were standing outside the lighthouse and his leg was no longer hurting.  “How?  Did you?  What?”  He was having trouble completing a thought.  She stood to the side, arms across her chest, grinning.

 

     “Told ya!  Now, if you don’t mind, I do actually a name besides Bull Headed Tree Stump.”  She said.  “From now on, why don’t you just call me Mickey.  With that Mickey grabbed his hand once again and, with a snap of her fingers, the scenery began to shimmer around them.  Suddenly, instead of standing on a beachhead overlooking the ocean, they stood on a ridge overlooking the most beautiful sight Ben had ever laid eyes on!  Below them was the largest inland lake he’d ever seen with the bluest water.  On all sides, as far as the eye could see were the tallest, thickest trees he had ever seen!  All Ben could do was stare, open mouthed at his surrounds.

 

     “Where are we?”  He asked in awe.  “This place is incredible!”

 

     “Well…that all depends on you.  If you prove to be a true Cartwright and not give up…your future home…just don’t ask me where.  If you wimp out on me and give up, it’s just a really pretty place you’ll never see again.”  Mickey answered, studying his face.  “I have to warn you though, it ain’t gonna be easy.  You’ll have to go through a lot of pain and heartache before you get to this point.  Matter of fact, most men would give up before they even start!”

 

     Ben opened his mouth to reply.  At that moment a horse and rider appeared, riding along the shoreline.  He was to far away to see his face but something about him seemed familiar to Ben.  The big red chestnut and the cowboy in the saddle, all dressed in black seemed to move together as one.  The man had such an air of agility and grace about him as the two moved it was as if he had been born in the saddle.

 

     “Who’s that?”   Ben asked.  He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the figure as he rode up the bank and out of sight.

 

     After a moment Mickey answered, “Your son.”

 

     “MY SON?”  He shouted, staring at her open mouthed.

 

     “Yep.”

 

     He tried to ask but, she interrupted, “don’t ask me to explain, ‘cause I can’t.  Now, ready to go home?”

 

     “I get married and have a son and live here…” Ben was having trouble digesting it all.  “Wow!”

 

     Mickey just looked at him.  Ahhh…yea.”  She grabbed his hand again.  “Now that you’ve seen more of the future than was intended, lets go.”

 

     “Wait!  Can’t I at least see my son’s face?  Where are we?”

 

     “You’ll have plenty of time to stare at that particular son all you want, and he ain’t the only one.  As for where we are…west.  Now”, with a snap of her fingers,  We’re out of here duder.”

 

     The horse and rider returned to the top of the hill, looked around, then resumed his trek down the other side.

 

     Instantly, they were once again standing on the beachhead, just outside the lighthouse door.  Ben sank to the ground, unconscious.  Mickey checked the bandages around his leg once again then, before taking her leave of him, planted a kiss on his forehead.

 

     “Your uncle is making his way up the embankment.  You’ll have a long fight ahead of you but I know you can do it.  When you awake, all you’ve seen and heard today will be but a dream. .  Sleep well Ben.  Your destiny awaits.”  With that, she was gone.

 

BACK AT THE PONDEROSA

 

     “All those times your mother and I talked of my dreams of the west, of tall trees and sons, growing as tall and as strong as the trees that surrounded them…I’d actually been here!”  Ben looked at his son across the room.  “And it was you I saw riding the shore line on that day, down by the lake.”

 

     Adam hadn’t said a word during Ben’s entire story.  Then, out of the clear blue, “Was it cloudy when you were there…I mean…here?”

 

     Ben looked puzzled, “Yes, I believe it was, Why?”

 

     Adam looked relieved.  “That explains a lot then.  I’d almost bet you were there yesterday!  I was on my way to meet Hoss and Joe when I took a short cut down by the lake.  Halfway across, I could feel a presence from the trees, watching me.  It must have been you and Mickey.  When I came back to investigate, the feeling was gone.  I’d been thinking about Mickey again.  When I topped the ridge, I could have sworn I heard her voice say ‘We’re out of here duder!’.”

 

     “You do realize we can never tell your brothers any of this don’t you?”  Ben asked after a moment.

 

     “That goes without saying.”  At that moment, he noticed the silence that surrounded them.  “When did the storm end?”  They had been so engrossed in Ben’s story, neither was aware of the change in weather.

 

     “I have no idea.  At any rate, at least your brothers should be home in the morning.”  Ben stood as he prepared to leave.  “Think I’m going to call it a night.”  Adam sat staring into the fire once again.  “Coming up?”

 

     Adam’s gaze settled on his father.  “Think I’ll stay down here for a while.  Good night pa.”

 

     “Don’t stay up too late.”  It fell on deaf ears.

 

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

 

     The next morning, Ben descended the stairs to find his son remained seated in the same spot he’d left him in the night before.  What was even more surprising, his other sons sat quietly on the settee, just watching him sleep.

 

     Joe grinned at his father as he came on into the living room.  “Was he waiting up for us or what?”  He asked at barely above a whisper.

 

     “We didn’t expect you home until this morning.  Guess he was just too tired to make it to bed.”  Something didn’t look quite right about Adam’s posture but he let it go.

 

     Hoss rose cautiously from his seat and quietly approached his sleeping sibling.  “He looks so cute and peaceful, I hate to wake him.”  Joe however had no problem what so ever with the proposition.  He jumped to his feet and stepped to the other side of Adam’s chair.  “Come on Hoss, this is gonna be good!  On three…one…” the two crept closer to Adam’s face,  two…” closer still.

 

     “THREE!”  Adam’s hands shot forward and grabbed his brother’s collars.

 

     “I would have to be dead three days not to hear the racket you two made coming in!”

 

     Ben headed for the table, laughing as he went.  “When are you two going to remember you can wake your brother with a pin drop?”

 

     “Apparently never.”  Smirked Adam.

 

     As breakfast progressed, Ben laid out the assignments for the day.

 

     Hoss I want you to ride the fence line north and east and make note of needed repairs.  On the way back, check out the grass in the hay fields in that section since haying season is rapidly approaching.  Joe, same assignment, only you take South and West.  Adam, since I need your help finishing the beef contracts for the Santa Fa buyers, you and I will unload the supplies and see if we can’t finish that up before supper tonight.”

 

     Hoss spoke up.  “Pa, I found a bear carcass on the north ridge yesterday.  While I’m up there, I want to check on her cubs and make sure they’re alright.”

 

     “OK son, just remember to be careful, they are wild animals you know.”

 

     “I will pa.”

 

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

 

     Hoss crept ever closer to his elusive prey.  His instincts were proven right.  He had spotted the small cub earlier and concluded it was indeed the dead bear’s offspring.  Now the task was to net the animal and make sure it wasn’t injured and doing ok on it’s own.  This led up to his current position, creeping silently toward the surging bushes.

 

     “Got ya this time you varmint!”  He announced triumphantly seeing that his trap had been sprung and something was attempting to escape the net on the ground.

 

     At that moment, a human hand appeared from beneath the net, soon followed by a very irate, bearded face.

 

     “You there!  Would you kindly assist me in removing this vile contraption from my person!  The man demanded, a distinct accent showing through.  Hoss remained frozen for an instant before moving to untangle the man.

 

     “Golly mister, I’m awful sorry.”  He said as he began unwinding the net.  “I was trying to catch a bear cub.”

 

     The man stood, trying to remove the dirt from his jacket before placing a bowler on his head.  His mood hadn’t softened one iota.  "Are you trying to tell me you are the cur who sprung this…this…net thing on me?”  Hoss nodded quietly, the remorse showing on his gentle face. 

 

     “I’m really sorry mister.  I wouldn’t a dun it if’n I’d known you were there.  I was just checkin’ on a orphaned bear cub.” 

 

     “I suppose it was an honest mistake.”  The man conceded.

 

     “This is private property though.  Just what were you doin’ over there in them bushes anyhow?” 

 

     “That is none of your business!”  He stated indignantly, his temper boiling over once again.

 

     Hoss repeated the question, the look on his face changing to all business.  “Mister, I said I’m sorry and I meant it but; I ain’t askin you again.  This is private property…what were you doin over there?”

 

     The man softened as Hoss’ face transformed from peaceful and contrite to menacing.  He was afraid to upset this gentle giant any further!

 

     “If you must know, I was on my way to the Ponderosa in search of a mister Benjamin Cartwright when I had to dismount to answer a call of nature.  My horse was surprised by a noise in the bushes and ran away from me.  It is most likely back in that quiet little burgh I rented him in.”

 

     Hoss’ face reverted to the usual jovial expression.  “Your horse most likely headed for the house.  It’s a heck of a lot closer than back to Virginia City.  For a horse, it’s within ‘smellin distance.”  He retrieved Chubb’s reins and turned back to the man.  “Come on.  You can ride back with me I was headed back to the house anyways.”

 

     The man looked at Hoss like he’d lost his mind!  He wasn’t going anywhere with this uncouth person!

 

     Hoss was getting increasingly exasperated with this snobbish, person who continued to look down his nose at him.

 

     “Look, you can either ride back with me or you can walk.”  He stated, climbing into Chubb’s saddle.  The man continued to stare at Hoss.  “Suit yourself.”  Hoss said and turned Chubb back in the direction of home.

 

     “Could you at least tell me where to find the Ponderosa and Mr. Cartwright.

 

     Hoss laughed as he pulled the reins to a stop.  “You’ve been on the Ponderosa since about ten minutes outside of town.  As for Mr. Cartwright, you’re lookin’ at one.  Come with me and I’ll introduce the other three.”  The man thought Hoss had lost what little sense he had.  "Ben Cartwright’s my pa.”

 

     “Then let us away to yonder domicile.” He said, reaching for Hoss’ outstretched hand.

 

     “You sound like my big brother when he’s on one of his Shakespeare kicks.  Now if you want a ride back to the house, come on.”

 

     The man wisely chose to remain silent.

 

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

 

     Once back at the house, Hoss handed Chubb’s reins off to one of the hands before heading for the front door, his guest in tow.  The rented horse in question stood silently at the hitching rail, just as Hoss predicted.  He asked one the hand with Chubb to take care of it as well.

 

     “Hey Pa!”  Hoss yelled on the way through the door.

 

     Ben, who had been quietly enjoying a cup of coffee while putting in some time on the ever present paperwork, stood by his desk mopping coffee off his shirt, looking for all the world like a thundercloud.

 

     Hoss looked sheepish when he finally saw his father.  “Golly pa, I’m sorry.”

 

     “Young man, how many times have I yelled at Joseph for doing the same thing you just did?”

 

     “A lot.”

 

     “Then for the fact that you have a guest, I’ll say don’t do it again.”  Then quietly so only Hoss could hear “for now.”

 

     Hoss gulped, “I really am powerful sorry pa, but I was in such a hurry to deliver this jasper, I plumb forgot.  He said he was lookin for ya.” A thought suddenly occurred to Hoss.  “I don’t think I ever caught your name.”

 

     “I don’t remember throwing it.”  To Ben. “Sir, allow me to introduce myself.  I am Sir J…”at that moment the front door burst open as Joe and Adam returned for lunch.  The door bounced off the credenza with such force, the house fairly shook!

 

     “Joseph!”  Ben stated with such restrained force, he got his message across.

 

     “Sorry pa.” He said sheepishly as he and Adam removed their gun belts and hats.

 

     Ben turned his attention back to their visitor, “Sir, you’ve met my middle son, Hoss.  These are my other two sons, Adam, my oldest, and Joseph, my youngest.”

 

     After shaking hands with each, the man continues.  “As I was saying Mr. Cartwright, my name is Sir J…”

 

     At that moment, a pounding came from the front door.  The man was getting exasperated!  At this rate, his business in this house wouldn’t be concluded until he retired from the service!

 

     Adam answered the door to find Charlie, the foreman, on the other side.

 

     “Sorry to interrupt Adam, but a messenger from town just dropped these off.  Said it’s the contracts your pa’s been waiting for.”

 

     “Thanks Charlie.”  Adam said as he ripped open the envelope for a fast peek.  “All signed pa…no adjustments.”

 

     “That’s good!”  To their visitor, “Shall we try again?”

 

     “Sir, my name is…” he glimpsed at the door expecting another interruption.  “Sir Jay Farthington Wentworth III.  I am an investigator with Scotland Yard.”

 

     When the initial shock wore off, Adam asked what was on everyone’s mind.  “Pardon me for asking but, what possible interest could a detective agency from England have in my father?”  Remembering the officer from New Orleans that derailed Ben’s run for first governor of Nevada, he had to ask.  “Is there something in your past coming back to bite you…again?”  This earned a scowl from Ben, but he made no remark.

 

     After a puzzled glance at Ben, Mr. Wentworth continued.  “Actually sir, I am attempting to locate your brother-in-law, one…”after checking his notes he continued.  Gunnar Borgstrum.  You are listed as his only living relative.”  Hoss’ eyes darted to his father, but he remained silent.

 

     Ben’s expression changed from shock to suspicion.  “Why are you looking for him?”

 

     Mr. Wentworth could tell he had touched on a sore spot.  “Please sir don’t be alarmed.  The yard was retained to locate him.  It seems he is directly related to Jean Bernadotte.  He is the son of his elder brother, Erik.”

 

     “That’s a nice story Mr. Wentworth.”  Interrupted Little Joe from his perch on the hearth.  “But you still haven’t told us why you are looking for Uncle Gunnar.”

 

     Adam took up the tail at this point, his eyes never leaving Mr. Wentworth.  “Jean Bernadotte is more commonly known as King Charles XIV of Sweden.”  Looking to his father he continued.  “While I was still in Boston, I did a little research on Sweden.”   Ben looked confused.  “I was missing momma.  I wanted to know more about her native land, and maybe feel a little closer to her.  The name popped up a few times.  It never registered he might be her uncle.” 

 

     Mr. Wentworth cleared his throat to regain their attention.  “In any case, can you point me in the direction of Mr. Borgestrum?  Due to incidents that would take to long to explain, he is next in line to inherit the throne of Sweden.”

 

     Stone silence permeated the big house.

 

     “Mr. Wentworth, Gunnar Borgstrum is dead.  He died saving my son.  He’s buried near the lake.”

 

     “Oh dear this is most distressing.”  Another thought occurred to him.  “Your wife Inger.  I believe our files indicate that she had a son?”  He asked, looking to Adam.

 

     Inger was my momma.”  Explained Adam, “but she didn’t give birth to me.”

 

     “There have been three Mrs. Cartwrights” explained Ben.  “Each of them had a son.”  He walked to where Hoss remained silently on the hearth beside Joe.  Ben laid his hand on Hoss’ shoulder.  “Hoss is a nickname.  I’d like you to meet Erik Hass Cartwright..  Inger named him after her father.”

 

     Ben mused aloud; “I wonder why she never told me any of this?”

 

     “I’m not entirely sure,” interrupted Mr. Wentworth “but, I don’t think she knew.  From what I understand, Erik and his brother were not on the best of speaking terms.  He moved his entire family to Sweden before the war broke out.  After his brother ascended the throne, he changed the family name to Borgstrum, and all but severed all ties to his family in France.”

 

     Up to this point, Hoss had remained silent.  He stood, shoved his hands in his pockets before addressing Mr. Wentworth. “Mr. Wentworth, would you mind backin this horse and buggy up sos I can get on board?”

 

     Mr. Wentworth looked as if Hoss had lost his mind.  “Excuse me?”

 

     “He said ‘Explain please’!” laughed Adam.

 

     “Yes…of course.”  He answered, turning back to Hoss.  “With the death of most of the royal line in Sweden, the next in line to ascend the thorn was Gunnar Borgstrum.  Since his untimely death, that honor now falls to you as his nephew.  You sire are now the reigning King of Sweden.”

 

     To his father, “Pa, please excuse my rudeness.”  To their visitor, “Mr. Wentworth…you’re nuts!  I don’t know nothin about running no country, and I ain’t seen any proof that anything you said so far ain’t pure hogwash!”

 

     “I was expecting some sort of reaction, so I have in my possession a small painting of the royal family.  The way I understand it, there is a striking family resemblance.  I must admit, I haven’t taken the opportunity to look at it until now.”  With that he retrieved the brown paper wrapped package attached to the back of his saddlebags and unwrapped it.  Mr. Wentworth studied the portrait for a moment, then turned to Ben.  “Erik is indeed the person I have been seeking.”  He turned the picture so Ben could also look.

 

     A momentary look of utter surprise crossed his face to be replaced by amusement.  He motioned Adam to join him.  Adam studied the picture, as did his father.  Almost the exact same expression played across his face.  “Ah…Joe?  Could you come here a minute?”  Adam said, the mirth barely hidden.  Joe joined his father and brother at the desk.

 

     Joe was having an even harder time containing himself.  “Uh…pa (giggle) I (giggle), uh…Cooch was having trouble with his hoof when we came home (giggle).  I think I’ll go see if he’s ok.”  To his bother, “Adam, I could really use your help out in the barn.”

 

     Adam jumped at the chance.  “I’m right behind you.”  The door barely closed before uproarious laughter could be heard in the house.

 

     Hoss could stand it no longer.  “Pa, what’s so gol durn funny?” 

 

     Ben bit back a laugh.  “I’m sorry son.”  He said.  “Come over here and see this.  They really do look a lot like Gunnar and your mother.  One of them is even a dead ringer for you.”

 

     Hoss got his first look at the royal family.  The entire family was decked out in the royal jewels and attire of state.  Hoss had to agree, they did resemble the picture of his mother and uncle, but he still didn’t see anything all that funny.  “I still don’t see get what those two goofballs were laughin’ about!”

 

     Hoss…look at the person standing directly behind King Charles.”  Ben said, pointing to the queen mother.  The woman was 6’4” “no matter which direction you measured her”**, cornflower blue eyes, dark blonde hair, and…Hoss Cartwright’s face!

 

     Hoss stood for a moment, just looking at the picture.  Ya know what pa?  I think I’ve earned the right to say this…” a smile spread across his face.  “I make one butt ugly woman!”

 

     Ben sobered immediately.  Hoss, be nice.  That IS your grandmother you’re laughing at.  Now, how about fetching those two laughing hyena brothers of yours, we have some talking to do.”

 

     “Sorry pa.  I’ll go fetch em out of the barn.”  Before he could move, the door opened to admit the remaining sons.  Adam once again had a firm grasp on his emotions.  Joe was another story.  He was still having a hard time keeping a straight face.

 

     Ben smiled.  “Boys, now that we have that out of our system please, bear in mind…” with a stern look at Joe, “we are looking at a picture of Hoss’ grandmother.  She deserves our utmost respect and consideration.”  To their visitor, “Now, Mr. Wentworth, what exactly is it you want from my son?”

 

     “I thought that was understood Mr. Cartwright.  Your son is now the ruling monarch of Sweden.  I will be contacting the Swedish government to inform them that the rightful heir has been located.  From there he will be returning to Sweden to take his rightful place as king.”

 

     With each passing second, Hoss’ eyes got bigger.  “Now hold on one cotton pickin minute!  Don’t I have a say so in this?!?  For your information, I don’t want to be king of my own country!  I don’t want to leave the Ponderosa!  And there’s got to be another relative out there somewhere to take over!  Did you even look???”

 

     “Your highness, we…”

 

     “DON’T CALL ME THAT!”

 

     “Forgive me, Mr. Cartwright…”

 

     “My name’s Hoss!”

 

     “Of course.  Hoss, we are still in the process of trying to locate another blood relative to continue the line in case Mr. Borgestrum was unattainable.  To that end, all we’ve found to date is you.”

 

     “Can I make a suggestion Hoss?” Asked Adam from his perch on the hearth beside Joe.

 

     “Why not?  I’d even go for one of Joe’s harebrained schemes at the moment!”

 

     “Hey!”  Piped Joe from the sidelines.

 

     Adam just smiled at his brother before continuing.  “Go through with what Mr. Wentworth wants for the moment.”

 

     “Are you sayin ya want me to move to Sweden?!?  I can’t believe you Adam!”

 

     “Are you trying to get rid of Hoss?!?”

 

     “No, wait a minute.  Go through with contacting the Swedish government, go through with the royal training sessions, and whatever else he deems necessary.  During this time, I can assume, Mr. Wentworth, that Scotland Yard will continue to look for others of the same bloodline?”

 

     “Absolutely sire.”  To Hoss  Your highness, I will be sending a wire to my office at first light.  We should hear a response soon.”

 

     Hoss looked skeptical at best.  “If you say so.”

 

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

 

     Over the next several weeks Mr. Wentworth, true to his set the process in motion to make Hoss over as a royal.  Hoss divided his days between his ranch chores in the morning and royal training in the afternoon along with settings with an artist commissioned to paint his official portrait. 

 

     Hoss was the picture of despondency.  This was all just too much for him to comprehend!  He didn’t care one whit about fulfilling his mother’s family destiny.  He just wanted to live out his life on the Ponderosa with his family and his animals!

 

     Today he sat, just staring at Marie’s grave.  He knew this was Joe’s “thinking place”, but right now, he needed his momma.  Pa was trying to be supportive but he could tell the prospect of loosing his son was killing him.  He knew if Hoss went to Sweden, he would never see him again. 

 

     His little brother was taking it all in with his usual flair.  One moment he was laughing and joking about Hoss trying to rule a country from the kitchen.  The next, he would blow his top over the slightest infraction.  Nothing was ever mentioned by his family or the rest of the hands because every one knew it was over the thought of loosing his big brother.

 

     Adam, on the other hand was another story.  He, as usual, kept his emotions close to the vest.  He would disappear for long stretches at a time.  When asked about it, all he would say was “business”.

 

     “You look like you could use some company.” A quiet female voice sounded behind him.  Hoss hadn’t even heard her approach.  He turned with a start, his hand automatically to his gun belt.  He stopped when he found a short, woman with long brown hair and glasses.  It was funny; from his position, seated on the ground, she was looking him in the eye.

 

     “Where’d you come from?” he asked, starting to stand.

 

     “Don’t get up” she said, placing a small hand on his shoulder.  “It’s easier to talk to you if I don’t have to look straight up!”

 

     He laughed softly, settling back to his position on the ground.  “Good point.  You ain’t no bigger than a minute.  Now; who are you?”

 

     “Well” she started leaning against a nearby tree and shoving her hands in the pockets of her jeans.  “Let’s just say I’m a friend who knows how you’re feeling right about now.”

 

     “Huh?”

 

     “This is really my mom’s job but, she’s been forbidden to interfere in your destiny.”

 

     Hoss was stumped.  “Lady, you’re makin about as much sense as goulashes on a cow pony!”

 

     She sighed.  “O.K. how’s this.  Your destiny doesn’t lie on the throne of Sweden.  It lies right here on the Ponderosa.  Have a little faith in your big brother.”

 

     “Adam?”

 

     “Yes Adam.  Has he ever let you down before?”

 

     Hoss thought for a moment.  No, he hasn’t.  Do you know what he’s up to?”

 

     “Yep.”

 

     “Can ya tell me?”

 

     “Nope.”

 

     “Can you at least tell me your name?”

 

     “Robin.  But if anybody asks, just tell them a little birdie told you that you are fulfilling your destiny right here on the Ponderosa.”

 

     Hoss visibly relaxed.

 

     “Just to be on the safe side, don’t tell anyone about our talk until Adam finishes what he needs to O.K.?”

 

     Hoss glanced away for a second.  “If you say so.”  When he turned back, she had vanished.  On the wind he heard “Tell Adam mom still won’t let me fly!”

 

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

 

     As Hoss walked in the front door of the ranch house, everyone could see that something had change.  He was almost completely back to his old self, he jovial manner returned.

 

     “Where you been son?”  Asked Ben as Hoss plucked an apple from the bowl on the dinning room table.

 

     “Oh just talking to ma.”  He said, munching happily.

 

     Joe spoke from his perch on the hearth.  “And did she answer you?”  He asked skeptically.

 

     “Nope.”  Munched Hoss.  “But a little birdie told me not to worry that everything would work out in the end.”

 

     “If you say so big brother.  Now…I have chores to finish in the barn.”  He said as he left the room.

 

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

 

     Adam left the next morning for a short business trip to San Francisco to finalize a timber contract with the railroad.  Hoss continued his private “training sessions” with the tutor Mr. Wentworth hired and continued to spend what little spare time he had at Marie’s grave, hoping to see his “little birdie” again.  To his dismay, she never reappeared.  He was beginning to think he had imagined the whole thing.

 

     Mid afternoon of the following Monday found Hoss once again sitting for the artist to finish this “blasted painting”.  The man wouldn’t even let him see the thing until it was finished, and he was getting on his last nerve!

 

     Ben sat quietly at his desk, pretending to work on the ranch ledgers.  In reality, he was thinking of Inger, and wondering what she would think of all this.  He wondered if she even knew of any of her family’s past before they moved to Sweden.  He wondered if she would be proud to know her son was soon to rule the country of her birth.  He knew he didn’t want to see him go, but he couldn’t stand in the way of him fulfilling his destiny.  He had been so lost in thought; he didn’t hear the front door open.

 

     “Howdy Adam” yelled Hoss from his perch.  “Where ya been so long.”

 

     “Sire, please hold still.”  Said the exasperated painter.  Of all the royals he had painted in the past, this one had to be the most exasperating!  Hoss ignored him and moved across the room to great his brother.

 

     Ben approached the twosome.  “Son, how did it go?  Contracts all taken care of?”  He asked, clasping Adam’s hand.

 

     “Dealt with the first ten minutes I was there.”  He said, unstrapping his gunbelt.

 

     Ben frowned.  “Then where have you been these past five days?”

 

     “Is Joe in the barn?  I think he should be here to hear this as well.”  He looked to Mr. Wentworth, seated in his chair by the fire.  “Won’t he Mr. Wentworth?”  He asked cryptically.  The man couldn’t look him in the eye.

 

     Joe was soon found and returned to the house.  “Hey Adam, when did you get back?”

 

     “Just a few minutes ago.  Now,” he started, waving his hand in the direction of the seating area as if directing a play.  “If you all will take a seat, I’ll tell you what I found out.”

 

     After everyone was comfortable, he began.  He looked for all the world like one of his college professors, beginning a lecture.  “Pa, remember I told you I spent some time researching Inger’s homeland while I was in Boston?”  Ben nodded.  “Well, I vaguely remembered something about another branch of the family.”  To Mr. Wentworth, “There was an older sister wasn’t there?”  The man nodded his eyes downcast.  “If I remember the rules of parliament correctly, the next in line to ascend the throne is the oldest male is it not?” 

 

     Mr. Wentworth looked sharply at the one addressing the assembled.  “There aren’t any descendents!  She had no children!”

 

     Adam remained silent, staring.  His arms were crossed over his chest, his feet planted slightly apart.  “Want to try that one again?  Remember, I know the whole story.”

 

     The man visibly wilted.  “Alright, I confess.”  He started, jumping to his feet and into Adam’s face.  It was obvious he was angry.  “If you knew, why did you let us continue with this charade???”  The man was livid!

 

     Adam just flashed a knowing little smile that didn’t even reach his dimples.  “Until this minute, I wasn’t sure.  I only knew there was another.  I only suspected it was you.”

 

     “I don’t understand.  How did you know it was me?”  He asked, totally confused.

 

     “Simple.”  He said, relaxing his stance.  You were way too eager to help Hoss assume his duties.  It was obvious; well, at least to me, that something didn’t ring true.  It triggered long forgotten memories of the afternoons I spent in the libraries at Harvard.  I hired my own investigator to do a little backtracking on Inger’s family.”  To his father, “Sorry I couldn’t tell you pa, but I didn’t want to get anyone’s hopes up in case I was wrong.”  Continuing his story. “Anyway, he confirmed that there was indeed another sibling, an older sister named Inger as well.  Apparently Erik idolized her.  He even named his daughter after her.  She died shortly after giving birth to her seventh child, a son.  The boy’s father took the children and fled to England where they were raised outside the control of her family.  Should I continue Mr. Wentworth, or would you like to continue the story.”

 

     “You’re doing quite nicely…why don’t you continue.”  The man was beyond angry.

 

     “This child changed his name when he reached legal age and joined Scotland Yard.  What I haven’t figured out is why you tried to put Hoss on the throne when you are the next in line?”

 

     “Wait a minute Adam.”  Interrupted Hoss.  “If it’s supposed to go the oldest…ain’t that me?”

 

     Adam smiled, “Believe it or not little brother, Mr. Wentworth here is two days older than you.  He is the rightful heir.  I’d lay even money he neglected to include this little tidbit of his family history in his report to the Swedish government or his superiors at the Yard.”

 

     Mr. Wentworth sighed.  He had to face facts…the party was over.  “I didn’t feel that I was qualified to ascend the throne.  I felt that I could be of better use training another to take my place.”  To Adam.  “You are right Mr. Cartwright, I am the last of Inger Wentworth’s children.  I was her oldest son.  I watched my parents and each of my sibling’s die during an influenza outbreak before I was twelve.  I grew up in an orphanage until I was 21.  From there I attended the police academy in London and pursued my lifelong dream of joining Scotland Yard.  When I was handed this case by my supervisor, I couldn’t find it in my heart to tell him I was the person he was seeking, I’d put that chapter of my life behind me and intended to leave it there for all eternity.  It was only through intensive research on my part that I discovered the birth of Gunnar and Inger.  The rest, as you Americans say, is history.”

 

     Ben had sat quietly during his speech.  “Are you going to set the records straight with your superiors or am I?”

 

     “I was hoping Hoss and I could reach a compromise.”

 

     “If it involves me leavin’ here…I ain’t interested.”

 

     “But sire, your destiny is…”

 

     “I was told by a very reliable little Robin bird that my destiny was to live out my life right here on the Ponderosa.” 

 

     Adam shot a sharp glance at Hoss.  Ben noticed and made note to ask him later what it was all about.

 

     Mr. Wentworth sighed again.  “I understand sir.”  To Ben,  I will be sending a wire to my superiors at first light explaining everything.  I’m sorry for all I’ve put your family through these past few weeks.”

 

     “All will be forgiven if you set things right in the morning.”

 

     “Understood sir.  I think I shall take my leave and return to Virginia City before nightfall.  Gentlemen.”  With that Mr. Wentworth went out the door.

 

     As the four of them stood on the front porch and watched the man ride out of the courtyard, Joe leaned closer to Hoss.  “A little Robin bird told you?  The animals are answering you now?!?”

 

     Hoss thought for a moment.  “Yea, maybe I was dreamin’.  I mean she did disappear right after we talked.”  Something else “Adam, right after she disappeared, she said to tell you ‘mom still won’t let me fly’?  Do you know what she’s talkin’ about?”

 

     Adam just looked at him for a moment.  “That was some dream Hoss.”  He answered vaguely.

 

     “Yea, guess you’re right.”  He and Joe turned to enter the house, Joe still teasing him.  “Now the animals are answering you!  Jeez…what will you come up with next?”

 

     Ben stopped Adam with a hand on his arm.  “O.K. what’s going on?  You’ve been acting strangely ever since Hoss mentioned the bird he was dreaming about.”

 

     Adam smiled, remembering his sojourn into the future.  “He wasn’t dreaming pa.  Robin is Mickey’s daughter.  During the entire six months I stayed with them, she kept pestering her mother to teach her to fly the helo.  Apparently she still hasn’t talked her into it.”

 

     “I guess this means we still have our guardian angels watching over us.”

 

     “Or at least a ‘guardian angel in training’.”

 

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

 

     “You went to see Hoss didn’t you”

 

     “I had to mom, he was so miserable.  The last time I looked in on him, he looked like he wanted to jump off the ridge instead of talk to Marie.  By the way,” she pointed to the ceiling.  “Are they mad at me?”

 

     Mickey chuckled softly.  Inger is very happy you took it upon yourself to help her son, Marie and Liz haven’t said but look like they’re just as happy, Abel just thinks it’s funny.  He thinks you’ll be a great guardian someday.”

 

EPILOGUE

 

     Ben sat at his desk, trying to catch up on the bookwork, but his mind wasn’t in it.  His glaze continued to drift to the large package reclining against the back of the settee.  It was addressed to Hoss, from Mr. Wentworth.

 

     A few moments later, he heard the sound of horses entering the courtyard.  The boys were returning from the eastern pastures for dinner. 

 

     Hoss” he called as the three stood by the door, taking off their hats and gunbelts.  “A package arrived for you from Mr. Wentworth.”

 

     “What is it pa?” Hoss asked, spying it for the first time.

 

     “I think it’s your portrait.  Remember the painter left before it was finished.”

 

     Joe’s curiosity was getting the best of him.  He crossed the room in just f few steps and picked up the picture.  “Well, what’s taking so long?  Let’s open this puppy!”

 

     Hoss took it from his little brother’s hands.  “Now hold on there.  This thing’s addressed to me.  Besides, there’s a letter attached here.”  He opened the letter and scanned the short note.  “Hey pa it says…Dear Hoss, I thought your family would enjoy having this.  Your official portrait was complete.  It seemed a shame for you not to have it.  Good luck.  Sincerely, King Charles XV. (a.k.a. your cousin).”

 

     The family stood in silence, staring at the portrait.  They were speechless.  It was a full size portrait of Hoss as he had posed for the artist.  Instead of his normal work clothes, the man had added all the royal trappings that he would have worn as king.  From the crown he wore to the heels of his pointy shoes, he was every inch the king, and looked as if he belonged.

 

     “Hey Adam.” 

 

     “Yea.”  He answered, not taking his eyes from the picture.

 

     “Remember that guy that thought he was King Arthur***?”

 

     “Yes.”

 

     “Remember when he knighted you before he got on the stage and called you Sir Adam, Knight of the Round Table?  Remember what you said after he left?”

 

     “Yes” Adam, said, trying to figure where he was going with this line of questioning.

 

     “Who’s the pheasant now?” He asked, puffing his chest and rocking back on his heels.  He had an almost swagger as he walked away.

 

Joe started to correct him but Adam stopped him with a hand on his shoulder.  “Let it go Joe, he’s earned it.”  He laughed.

 

=======================

 

 

 

 

*Character from my first story Knockin on Heaven’s Door.

 

**From the episode Once A Doctor.  The description Ben gave to Roy when trying to locate Hoss.

 

***From the episode A Knight To Remember.

 

 

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