Page 167 - Tamale Ridge_113017

165 Tamale Ridge by: Chuck Cusimano

I knew my Uncle Robert and that was always how he was. Call it self disciplined if you want to

but I called it “hard headed.” The doctor got him awake and it took a while for him to focus his

eyes on the people in the room.

“Hello Uncle Robert,” I said. He tried to speak but nothing would come out of his mouth.

“He is very weak. Give him a few minutes.” said the doctor.

The nurse brought him a cup of warm tea and helped him take a swallow. I felt bad that

he had been so close and I didn’t know it. I was flooded with questions. What was he doing

here? How long had he been here? Why hadn’t he spent some of his money to eat and clothe

himself? Why hadn’t he come to the place and let me take care of him?

He sat up a little better in the bed and motioned me to come closer.

“Gideon?” He said in a weak voice.

“I wanted to tell you. You are doing a fine job with Trent’s ranch. You were always a good

hand and I never told you……”

I started to say something and he put his hand up.

“Let me tell you something before it’s too late. I came here to see you fail and then I could

take over….. I thought Trent should’ve gave his place to me but I know now, he made the right

choice……..I found your note. I got your letter inviting me to be a part of it all and….. Well,

I’m just an old cranky man, with no friends and no family in this world. Except for you.

Gideon, I’m sorry I treated you and your mother like I did. I saw the two of you as a burden and

didn’t realize, I couldn’t have run my own place without the two of you…..I sold my place and

brought the money to give to you….Gideon. I’m sorry.”

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