Ep 7. Found Child

Ben Cartwright and his sons Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe live on the Ponderosa Ranch in the town of Virginia City. In the season 7 episode titled Found Child, the family is on their way back home from a cattle drive when they come across a small boy wandering alone in the wilderness. The Cartwrights take him in and try to find out where he came from and who his parents are.

The boy, Tommy, is initially quiet and unresponsive. However, as the Cartwrights begin to care for him, Tommy slowly opens up and begins to trust them. In town, they learn that Tommy's parents died in a wagon accident and he has been living with an old prospector, who has also recently died. The Cartwrights are determined to find a relative who will take the boy in.

As they attempt to locate a home for Tommy, they are met with challenges. Some individuals take advantage of the situation and seek to profit from Tommy's situation, while others show genuine concern. Ultimately, Ben and his sons must negotiate to find the best outcome for Tommy.

Throughout the episode, the Cartwrights show their compassion for the young boy and demonstrate their willingness to go to great lengths to care for him. They work together to find Tommy a good home, showing their love for family extends beyond their immediate relatives.

Found Child is a heartwarming episode that explores themes of family, loyalty, and compassion. The Cartwrights' unwavering support for Tommy resonates with viewers and highlights the importance of caring for those in need. As always, the stunning backdrop of the Nevada wilderness adds a breathtaking backdrop to the story. Fans of Bonanza will appreciate this episode's testament to the Cartwrights' strong family values and legacy.