Little Shot

By Carol Partner Holmes, Elizabeth Holmes Macfarlane and Harry E. Partner

George runs eagerly to the schoolyard to celebrate the Fourth of July. He is wearing new shoes and can hardly wait to show them to his classmates. George has never before had new shoes and is surprised that his father bought them for him.
Shortly after arriving at the school grounds, a few boys invite him to join them. George is pleases to be invited . The boys talk about George’s news shoes and say they are sure his is going to win the foot race. Two of the boys, Calvin and Tom, are the town bullies, and George is surprised that they are being so nice to him. One of the bullies suggests they all have a practice race. George agrees, but as soon as he begins to run, something hard hits his legs and he falls. When he falls, the nickels he is holding fly from his hand. The boys laugh and call him a dumb immigrant. Though he begs for his nickels, they laugh and toss the coins back and forth to each other.
George runs from the schoolyard and follows a dry wash (gully) bed back to the family ranch. He climbs a small hill where he can look down at the valley below. As he sobs and prays, his sobs are interrupted by the whinny of a horse. George looks up and sees a herd of wild horses grazing in the valley. He notices a little black horse that seems to be looking right at George.
“Are you lonely like me?” Do you need a friend?” George whispers to himself.
Instantly the horses begin to gallop away and soon disappear in a nearby canyon.
From that day forward, George often thinks about the little black horse. One morning when he hides behind a big rock to watch the wild horses drink at the creek, he does not see the little black horse. A terrible, empty feeling fills his heart. Suddenly, he hears a snorting sound and turning carefully around, he see the beautiful, black horse standing behind him. George and the horse stare quietly at one another until the leader of the herd calls and the little horse races off to join his companions.
A few weeks later, George and his brothers are asked help their father’s friends, the Johansens, catch some wild horses.
“You’re too young to be catching a wild horse,” his dad warns. “You can only go along to keep the horses from running west.”
After the roundup, George looks for the little black horse and sees him walking very slowly and alone toward Coal Canyon. George runs to the canyon and finds the horse standing quietly on a side hill. The horse is exhausted and allows George to herd him down the canyon and into the family corral.
With Dad’s help, George trains the little horse, and on his eleventh birthday he rides the horse triumphantly out of the corral.
The following year, George rides his horse in the Fourth-of-July horse race. Before the race begins, he sits nervously on his horse. Calvin and Tom Meens point at George and laugh. The race starts and George’s horse runs so fast that George feels like he is flying. When the race ends, George hears a lot of cheering. However, until the mayor runs toward him shouting, “You won,” George doesn’t realize his horse is the winner. That day, George decides to name his horse Little Shot because the mayor says the horse runs like a bullet out of a 30-30 rifle.
Winning the horse race was the start of many exciting experiences, challenges and adventures George has with his wonderful horse.
The third year of riding Little Shot in the Fourth of July horse race, the running horses are startled when a motor car honks its horn. Frightened, the horses rear and bumped into each other. Angry people shout at the driver. Trying to get away from the commotion, Little Shot runs off the road. Sadly, he bangs his shoulder against a tree. The tree has a limb that has been cut but is sticking out like a knife. The sharp point of the limb stabs Little Shot. Blood immediately oozes out of the horse’s shoulder and down his front leg.
In the meantime, another horse has calmed and is running down the

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jun 5, 2012
• ISBN: 9781469163239

Carol Partner Holmes

Carol Partner Holmes grew up beneath the Escalante Mountain, which rises high above myriad sandstones formations of white, pink, and orange. While Carol has lived an many areas throughout the United States, she still considers the Escalante Mountain and Bryce Canyon valleys her home. After rearing four children, Carol returned to college at California State University, Bakersfield where she received a bachelor’s degree in communication with emphasis in journalism. In 1999, she began working as a freelance reporter for the Bakersfield Californian, then in 2001 she became the editor of the Tehachapi News. Today she lives in West Virginia with her husband, Bill, and enjoys creating stories based on real-life events.

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Copyright © 2012 by Carol Partner Holmes.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Rev. date: 05/06/2020

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Illustrator Elizabeth Holmes Macfarlane drew the cover picture and the five illustrations that introduce each section of the book. The late Harry E. Partner drew pictures of ranch tools and a sheep when he was in grammar school. Because his drawings were created in the time depicted in her story, the author included them in her book.

Contents

Surprises for Everyone

Wearing New Shoes

Day of Disappointment

Remembering the Wild Horses

Wild Horses Roundup

Herding a Wild Horse

Training a Wild Horse

A Horse of His Own

A Great Cattle Horse

The Horse Race

Section Two: The Rustlers

Hidden Branding Irons

Town Picnic

Another Stranger

Letter from Lucy

Rock of Promise

The Eagle Flies

Bellow of a Branded Cow

Rounding Up a Rustler

Justice of the Peace

Devil’s Draw

Mercy Brings Blessings

Section Three: The Heated Knife

Stepmom

Little Shot’s Decision

Double Delight

New Family Members

Unfortunate Accident

Recovery

A Baby Arrives

New Saddle

Big Cat

A Family Comes Together

Section Four: Gun of His Own

Mabel

Sheep Job

The Attack

A Big Trip

Marysvale

Going Home

Big Ornery Steer

Sheep Hater

Two Big Surprises

Picnic Bear

Deer Hunting

Section Five: Indian Farewell Song

Saving the Land

Where Is Cassidy?

Licorice Stick

Snakes and Skunks

Dangerous Flood

A Hero Horse

Peddler Man

Grandfather of the Mountain

A Jockey for Licorice Stick

Day of Sorrow

Happy Lullaby

Dedication

I dedicate this book to my mother Thora Mae Hughes, and my father Harry Elbert Partner, who believed I could achieve anything I desired. Their belief in my abilities has spurred me forward and given me the courage to reach for my dream of becoming a published author.

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Surprises for Everyone

George waited beneath his quilt, listening for the sound of horses hooves and a ‘hello’ in the dark. Those sounds would mean his dad was coming home to the little log cabin. The only sound he heard was the rustling of the corn leaves as the night wind swept across the valley.

His dad had left on a cattle drive ten days earlier. Nine-year-old George was left behind to help his thirteen-year-old sister Lucy and his older brothers, James and Cyrus, care for the ranch.

Before Dad left he had promised to be back in ten days or less. Today was the tenth day. What has happened to my Pa? George wondered nervously.

George knew his older brother was brave, but he felt a lot more safe when Dad was home.

The howling of coyotes was a familiar night sound, but sometimes the screams of a mountain lion also rang through the air. Mountain lion screams sent shivers up George’s spine, especially when his dad was away from home. While Dad was gone fifteen-year-old Cyrus left a cooking fire outside the cabin burning.

The fire will keep wild animals away, he said. Animals are frightened of fire. Even mountain lions don’t want to get their tails burned.

George giggled and asked Cyrus if he had ever seen a mountain lion with his tail on fire. Cyrus was always eager to launch into a tall tale, but Lucy frowned and said, Not tonight, Cyrus.

Lucy began telling stories about their mother who had died when George was only four. Because his memories were fading he begged Lucy to tell him stories of their mum every night. George tried to stay awake and listen, but his eyelids began to close. After a long day weeding rows of corn his tired body slipped into a deep sleep.

Suddenly, George awoke to shouts of excitement. Dad was home! Cyrus was unwrapping a package. Wow! he yelled, lifting a shotgun from the brown paper. Lucy was running her hand over some bright gingham cloth, and eleven-year-old James was holding a shiny knife.

What’s going on? George asked, rubbing his eyes.

Quickly, his dad pushed a package toward him. Open it, little buddy, he said. This time you get something, too.

George tugged at the twine that held the paper around the gift. As the paper fell away, he squealed, New shoes! New shoes! Soon he was up racing across the floor in search of the rag bag.

Don’t you want to try the shoes on? his dad asked.

Oh, yes, answered George. But I’m looking for a rag to put in the shoe.

The only shoes George had worn were ones that James and Cyrus had worn. The handed-down shoes were always too big for George. So he put rags in the toe until his feet grew larger and didn’t slide around.

You won’t need a rag for these shoes, his dad said, laughing. Go ahead and put them on.

George began with the left foot and then the right. The shoes fit! For a moment, he stood amazed. They fit! They fit my feet just fine!

Then George remembered the picture his dad made by tracing a pattern of George’s feet before the trip. Dad had said he wanted George’s feet next to his heart while he was away.

Did you get a lot of money for the cows? Lucy asked.

I sure did. It was my best auction trip ever, Dad said, smiling. I got enough money to buy presents for everyone.

After a lot of questions about Dad’s trip it was time to go bed, but everyone was too excited to sleep.

Lucy, you can finish the story you were telling when I came home, Dad said. Lucy looked a little surprised. Dad missed their mother very much and became emotional when he heard the children talking about her. He often left the house with his eyes filled with tears. For some reason Dad seemed to have changed.

Mom loved flowers and missed the flowers of the homeland, Lucy said in a reverent whisper. She made wonderful biscuits and pies.

Wearing New Shoes

George awoke from a dream about new shoes. As he opened his eyes he remembered he did have new shoes, and they were lying next to him. He grabbed them in his arms and bounced down on to the dirt floor. The smell of eggs and bacon drifted in from the outdoor fire.

Hey, time you woke up, said James when he saw George standing in the cabin door.

Don’t you know this is the Fourth of July?

George ran to place the shoes back on the bed then pulled on a shirt and trousers. Carrying his plate, he ran outside to get breakfast.

Pa, can we go to town for the celebration? he asked.

That’s when Dad said the whole family was taking the day off and going to town.

I have another little surprise for all of you, Dad announced with a big grin.

Another surprise? shouted James. What can it be?

Dad said everyone would know when they finished their morning chores.

George was the first to complete his chores by feeding the pigs and making his bed. He and James shared a bed, but he was more than happy to make it by himself that day. Then, he rushed to find his dad, who was repairing a bridle.

Here, I am! George said with excitement.

Chuckling, Dad reached into his pocket and pulled out two shiny nickels. When he placed the nickels in George’s hand, George stared in surprise. He had seen nickels before, but this was the first time he had nickels of his own.

Now you can buy candy and pie at the celebration today, Dad said, smiling.

He told George the bridle would soon be fixed, and he would harness up Bets and Old Charlie. George was too eager to wait and wanted to start to town right away.

Can I just go right now? George asked.

Be patient, George, Dad said, laughing. We’ll be on our way in a short time. And don’t forget to wear your new shoes.

George gasped in surprise. He had never worn shoes in the summertime. He and his brothers only wore shoes when wintertime brought snow and frost.

B-but I might get them dirty, George said.

His father insisted that today was a special day, and he wanted George to wear the new shoes. George dashed into the cabin. Sitting on the bed, he proudly pulled the shoes on each foot and tied the long brown shoelaces.

As the family rode toward town they sang songs together. First, they sang Yankee Doodle, then Onward Christian Soldiers. George liked singing with the family and tried to sing along, but his mind kept wandering. He imagined how the town kids would like him because of his new shoes. He frequently reached in his pocket and felt the shiny nickels.

George was so excited he didn’t want any delays getting to the schoolyard. When they arrived in town, Bob Woodruff ran toward their wagon.

Mr. Patterson, Mr. Patterson, come please, he begged.

What’s the matter, sir? Dad asked.

It’s Molly, she’s giving birth, and it isn’t going right, he cried.

Dad, are you going to deliver a baby? Lucy whispered.

The Woodruffs were new in town, and none of the Pattersons knew them well.

Dad asked the nervous man if he had called the midwife.

It’s not my wife, Doc, it’s my cow, Mr. Woodruff answered.

Dad wasn’t really a doctor. Nevertheless, he was often called Doc because he was the best animal doctor the town had. He also was skilled at setting broken bones and treating sick children.

We’re going to be late for the town celebration, George mumbled.

Dad told George to run along to the schoolyard. After George jumped out of the wagon, Lucy climbed down and ran to her friend’s house. James and Cyrus stayed to help their dad.

When George arrived at the school, the grounds were already filled with happy children. Girls giggled as they played hopscotch, and little boys chased each other around the yard. A few wagons were lined up along the street, and several horses were tied to the hitching post. A huge American flag waved in the morning breeze, and scents of homemade pies and cakes drifted through the air.

George’s heart pounded with excitement. He could hardly wait for the games to begin. The familiar clank of horseshoes told him the celebration had already started. For a few minutes he leaned against the flagpole and listened as local musicians practiced patriotic tunes. Maggie Barton was tooting her flute, and old Ed Harper was playing his fiddle. Fanny McBride was getting the most attention as she banged on a washtub and played a washboard at the same time.

Day of Disappointment

George looked eagerly up the road, hoping to see his family coming. He did not see them and was disappointed. George wanted them to come in time for his brothers to join the footraces. James’s long legs always got him in first place.

Through all the noise of happy people, George heard someone call his name. He turned toward the voice and saw eleven-year-old Calvin Meens running toward him. Calvin was smiling, which surprised George. Calvin was one of the bullies who taunted George and James at school.

Hey, George, come on over and join us, Calvin said, pointing to a group of boys gathered behind the school. I see you have some new shoes.

Yes, answered George proudly, pulling up his trouser legs to show off the shoes.

Soon Calvin’s younger brother Tom and three other boys gathered around George. He felt wonderful! He was getting friends because of his new shoes. Smiling with pride, George pulled the nickels out of his pocket.

Look, he shouted, I have nickels too.

Johnny Allen complained that he never had money because his family was so poor.

That’s okay, said George. I’ll share my candy with you.

George was too happy to notice the sly grin that spread across Tom’s face.

You’re sure going to win the footrace with those fancy shoes you have on, Tom said.

I have a great idea, said Calvin, clapping George on the back. Let’s have a practice race. Do you want to practice with us, George?

Sure, said George, who was very pleased to be included in the fun.

Calvin shouted, Get on your mark, get set, go!

George leaped forward, but something hit his legs hard and fast. George fell forward. Calvin had struck George’s leg with a baseball bat. George hit the ground so hard his nickels flew from his pocket.

You old dummy immigrant! yelled Calvin.

Look what I have! Tom laughed, holding up the nickels. Guess who’s going to buy candy now? he sneered.

George pleaded with Tom to give him the nickels, but Tom quickly tossed them to Calvin. Each time George tried to grab the nickels, they were thrown to another boy.

Georgie Porgie, the boys all chanted.

Please give my nickels back, George pleaded. I’ve never had nickels before.

Give me back my nickels, Tom said, mocking George.

As George ran toward Tom he saw Tom and Calvin’s mother coming toward him. Lizzie Meens always believed what her boys said.

What can I do to stand against all the boys and Mrs. Meens? George thought.

Choking back tears of anger and sadness, George ran from the schoolyard. He didn’t want James to see him crying, so he ran into the dry gully, which the family called a wash.

Poor James is always trying to protect himself as well as me against the town bullies, George cried softly. I don’t want his day to be ruined.

After running for ten minutes, George felt a stinging in his leg. He pulled up his trouser leg to see a big purple lump and a trickle of blood. The wash had a tiny puddle of water, and George scooped a handful of mud to put on his wounded leg.

Beads of sweat formed on his neck as he hurried toward the ranch.

Why do people call my family and me immigrants? he asked himself.

Sobbing, he climbed a hill near the ranch. Halfway up the hill he sat down. Sitting on a rock, he thought about his mother. His dad said she was the most beautiful angel in heaven.

He bowed his head and prayed, Dear God, I just want to have a friend. His prayer was interrupted by a loud whinny. George looked up to see a herd of wild horses grazing about a half-mile away. At the rear of the herd was a little black horse, which suddenly looked up and neighed.

It seemed the little horse was looking right at George.

What’s the matter? he whispered. Are you lonely? Do you need a friend too?

As if startled, the herd of horses quickly turned and ran over a hill. George watched as they disappeared into a narrow canyon. The little black horse followed close behind the bigger horses.

Remembering the Wild Horses

For the rest of the summer George often climbed the hill to look for the wild horses. A few times he spotted them as they ran or they stopped to eat wild grass.

One day when he and James were herding cattle back to the corral, George