Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 1056) (1897 10 19)
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"+ Bntered as Second Class Matter at the New York, 'N. Y., Post Office. opyrighted 1897, by BEADLE AND ADAMS. October 19, 1897. No. 1056. Five Cents a Copy. BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, Published Every Vol. XLI. Rive ge eee wes 50 a Year. 92 Wii1am Street, New Yors. RECN Fem on pee i the Blue Jeans. / \ By Wm. West Wilder Mh ie eM | Hi i ij a : al Mh a Hi i ay Lt | | | in sen ay : = : il y My N i i L I eee f | AINE: HN | th } i \ i a AI if HT ; itl wT Wilh in | | t } } Hii i Hit nha } | Hi] 1} | — i Lil if } ' } t
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4 f # Cowboy Ghris in Cinnabar OR, The Battle for the Blue Jeans. BY WM. WEST WILDER, (‘* WYOMING WILL,”) AUTHOR OF ‘‘ COWBOY CHRIS, THE MAN CALIBER,” ‘‘ COWBOY CHRIS TO THE FORE,” ETC,, ETC, CHAPTER I. TWO COWBOY PARDS, WHILE still several miles fromm Cinnabar City, the regular stage was stopped in Cross-cut Can- yon by three masked and mounted men. Al- though this was something quite out of the usial order of things, the driver pulled up promptly when he heard the command to halt and saw the three men blocking the trail with leveled weapons. ** Hold hard an’ stiddy, Johnny!” commanded one of the men, who appeared to be the leader. “ Jest keep your level, ef you know w’en you're well off, This isa case of business, an’ we won’t detain ye long.” The veteran Jehu growled out some unintel- ligible reply, but he was too wise to attempt running the gantlet in the face of those cocked and leveled « eapons. Revolver in band, the leader rode up to the door of the stage and peered in, ‘*Hasy thar!” he sharply cried, turning the muzzle of the revolver on the only male passen- ger, a littl man in gray, who was nervously fumtling im his pocket after a weapon. ‘‘ Keep yer haw’ off ther barker, ef ye don’t want er through ticket ter Glory.” Tne little man fell back with a gasp and glared despairingly at the bold bandit. ‘© You are not the game [ am arter,” declared the mask, and his eyes left the male passenger to turm upon the two ladies within the stage. ‘* This yere’s not a case of yer money or yer life, is quite diffrunt biz. Madam,” lifting his hat with his free hand ani bowing to the elder o! the ladies, a woman of fifty, attired in deep pouruing, ‘*hev I ther honor of addressin’ Mrs. George Newman?” ** You have, sir,” calmly replied the lady. “ And thet is your daughter?” nodding to- ward the beautiful girl at the lady’s side. “You are the people I am lookin’ fer, so you will please be kind ernough ter step outside ther stage.” Tho lady started as if to obey, but the girl caught her arm and drew her back. Her dark eyes flashed, as she faced the masked man and demanded: ‘* Why should we get out? What right have ‘ you to ask such a thing of us?” The outlaw laughed. “The right of might,” was the reply. ‘‘ You sh’u’d see thet, young lady.” ‘ "T do not see it.” The mask made an impatient gesture. ‘*T hain’t got any time ter fool erway,” he as- serted, ‘so you will jest git out of thar ter oneet, or I'll call one of ther boys ter snake ye out, Hf you don’t want ter git bandled rough, you kin tumble out of your own accord,” ' To» beautiful girl glared ere at him, her eyes fl shing in a manner that would have made ms men quail. * Coward!” burst from her red lips, * Ave you goin’ ter git out?” ‘* We had better obey, Grace, my child,” urged the elder woman. ‘' Itis the most sensible thing we can do,” ‘But this is outrageous!” flashed the girl, darting something like a scornful glance at the little man in gray, who sat shivering and white- faced in one corner, ‘If I were a man—” “You w’u’d make a fool of verself,” was the mas’:’s rude interposition, ‘‘Iam not a man ter be trifled with, as you’ll—” His words were cut short by a cry from one of his.men, which was answered at a distance by a ringing yell that made the canyon ecko. “Yip, yip, yip!” It was the regular cowboy yell, and a glance showed the leader of the masked men that two mounted cattlemen were charging straight down toward the halted stage, Witb a snarl of rage, he discharged bis revol- ver toward the oncoming cowboys, and, at the ‘same moment, oye of bis. men sent a rifle-bullet whistling toward the daring riders. Oneof the cowboys’ horses was seen to stag- gera moment, as if hard hit, then the two dar- OF Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. ing fellows came on as before, one being a bit in advance, Their bridie-reins were held in their teeth, and revolvers glittered in their hands, al- though as yet they had not fired a shot. The road-agents, seized by sudden terror, wheeled their horses, and spurred madly down the canyon, The stage-driver would have taken a hand and sent a few bullets after the fleeing despera- does, but his horses had been alarmed and he had bis bands full to manage them. The inter- vening stage prevented the cowboys from open- ing fire on the baffled ruffians, The little man within the stage succeeded in getting out a small 22-caliber revolver. Thrust- ing his head out of the window, he fired every chamber of the weapon toward the approaching cattlemen, believing in bis excitement they were the fleeing outlaws; Fortunately, neither the men nor theirSanimals were touched by the fusilade, But one of the cowboys’ borses bad been bit by the single rifle-bullet fired by the road-agents, The bandsome young fellow who bestrode the animal realized the creature was hard hit, and thrust his weapons into their holsters, gathering up the reins in Lis hands, eryivg to bis mate: ‘The old horse has got it for good, Rube!” The other, a small, wizen old fellow with a weather-beaten face, vouchsafed no reply, but an angry glitter leaped into his keen little eyes. However, when the passenger in gray opened on them from the stage window, the small cow- boy said something. “ Dern a fool!” he gritted, bending low in the saddle and balf-lifting a revolver, as if to return the shots, The one whose horse had been hit freed his fect from the stirrups and prepared to leap if the animal fell. It was well he did, for, just before the stage was reached, the creature stumbled and pitched headlong to the ground, The nimble young cowboy alighted fairly on his feet, and his companion instantly reined up, growling; ‘* Blame ther beastly luck! A good hoss gone ter thunder, an’ ther pesky varmints as sent it thar hev got clean off!” , The younger man said nothing, but turned back toward the fallen animal. He was a hand- some, manly-looking youth, the perfect contour of his fine figure being well-displayed by an attire that was somewbat fanciful for one of his calling. There wasa look of mingled rage and sadness on his shapely face as he bent over the faithful black horse that had been his companion through many a wild and exciting ride. A glance showed the young man that the horse was fatally injured. It tried to arise and about half-succeeded, but fell back with something like a human groan of pain, turning its great eyes appealingly upon its young master, **Poor fellow—poor boy!” and the cowboy’s hand caressed the velvet muzzle of the heavily breathing animal, while tears stood in his honest eyes. ‘I had rather lost a band! But, you shail not remain unayenged, old pony! I will ie find the fellow who fired that shot and call im to an account. He shall pay dearly for your life!” ‘Best shoot bim, pard,” asserted the wizen cowboy. ‘ Thet?ll putt him outer his misery.” But the other shook his head, *“{ can’t do it,” he declared. ‘‘ If it must be done, you will have to do the job, Rube.” ‘‘) know how ye feeJ, Chris, Jest you git erway, an’ [’ll finish his sufferin’.” The horse lifted its nose with a faint whinny, that cut its young master’s heart like a knife. ‘* Poor boy!” he almost sobbed, shuddering as he saw the blood gushing from the wound in the animal’s breast. ‘*Good-by, old fellow, good- by! With a parting caress he turned pag notic- ing the heavy revolver that gleamed in his com- rade’s hand. As he walked slowly toward the stage, he was followed by the pitiful gaze of the doomed creature’s eyes—a look which seemed to ask as plainly as words, why he was being de- serted just then, The older cowboy had swang himself down from the saddl», and once upon his feet, it was seen he was wonderfully bow-legged. There was no show of finery about his plain attire, but he had the aspect of a man inured to hard- ships, and used to wild life and stirring scenes. Retaining a firm grasp on the bridle of his own horse, ths bow-legged cowboy advanced toward his comrade’s wounded animal. There was a hard look on his weather-tanned face, as if he had sterled himself for the duty he was about to perform, The young’: cowboy did not look back, but in his mind be saw the picture of his companion ee) ea tec dling EE EL LLL LL bending forward to touch the revolver’s muzzl® against the head of the unfortunate horse» and— Crack! crack! Two muffled reports, which sounded almost as one, apd he knew the deed was done. Never again would the gallant horse bear a rider, as, with arched neck, glowing eye and proudly- flowing mane and tail, it joined in the blood- stirring excitement of the round-up, or flew across the plain in pursuit of a stampeded herd, The young man dashed his band across his eyes, and, as the mist which bad gathered was thus brushed away, he found himeelf face to face with a beautiful girl, who was sympathet ically regarding him from the open window of the stage door. The next moment he was bowing before ber with true cowboy chivalry, his head uncoy- ered, the broad-brimmed sombrero clasped in his left hand. abe CHAPTER II. GRACE. “Oh, it is too bad!” cried the girl, impulsively. **T am so sorry!” The young cowboy actually blushed, for no matter how noble a certain amcunt of tender- heartedness is in a man, he dces not like to be seen with tears in his eyes, and the sympathy of a woman on such an occasion is like gall and wormwood, The girl saw how confused her words bad made the young man, and she hastened to add: ‘““The poor horse! From the window J saw him when he fell, Did it injure him so much it was necessary to shoot him?” ‘*He was shot before that, miss,” was the reply. ‘One of those road-agents spotted him with a rifle-bullet; that was why he fell.” ‘Such a handsome animal! What a wretch it must have been who shot him!” The cowboy smiled. ‘“ Without doubt the man is a pretty hard case,” he agreed, “ for the bullet was probably intended for me instead of the horse. But my pard and myself were fortunate enough to save you from robbery—were we?” “From worse than robbery, I think. The horrid wretch who came to the door was about tu compel mother and myself to leave the stage, while this gentleman ”—nodding toward the lit- tle manin gray, who had drawn back into a corner—‘ was to remain in the coach.” Something like a seowl marked the young man’s face for a moment, ‘* Almost a case of kidnapping, I should think. Tf that is true, we were fortunate indeed in be- ing on band.” “ We are the fortunate ones; you were upfor- tunate enough to lose a noble horse. Whom are we to thank for our escape?” ‘No one, miss. Both my pardand myself are lain men, and the thanks of a lady would em- Farthia us. Wewere glad of an opportunity to chip into the game, for we have struck nothing in the way of excitement during the last two days. As we find it almost impossible to exist without excitement, you can imagine how de- lighted we were when we saw the chance to take a hand in a little game of this kind, We em- braced the opportunity with great rejoicing.” “But you must allow us to thank you,” in- sisted the girl, with a charming smile, ‘‘ And I trust that you will tell us your names? ‘“‘T will do'that certainly. The name of my rd is Reuben Randall, but he is usually called ound-up Rube. He is’a man familiar with every crook and turn of cowboy life and is as true a friend as ever breathed.” “You forget yourself.” “JT am Christopher Comstock, sometimes called Cowboy Chris.” “Tam peer? to meet you, Mr. Comstock,” declared the girl, bolding out a shapely gloved hand, ‘‘lam Grace Newman, and this is my mother. We are going to Cinnabar City.” Caris accepted the offered hand, and Mrs, Newman was also eager to shake hands with him. “We are proud of the honor of touching the hand of a brave man,” she said, at which the modest young fellow blushed again. ‘ Won't you bring your friend forwa Y “Tfear you have asked too much of me,” smiled Chris. ‘Rube is very, basbful in the presence of ladies, and I think it would take a ir of horses to drag him up to the stage if he new I meditated introducing him to avy of the fair sex,” “Oh. but he shall not escape!” asserted Grace, “T will speak to him.” Rube had removed the saddle and trappings from the dead borse, and was bringing them to- a I | i | :
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of ee ia ee ee ee ee qi ! ward the stage, when he was suddenly confront- ed by the charming girl. “Ob, Mr. Randall!” she cried; “{ want to thank you.” ‘Gug-gug-great smoke!” stammered the old fellow. ‘Fer w’at?” ‘‘ For saving us from those dreadful mey.” “Never done it!” protested the bow-legged cowboy. ‘It wuz Chris; you kin thank him. Don’t thank me—fer goodness sake don’t !” ‘*Oh, but I bave thanked him for his part, and now I will thank you for yours, I would siiake hands with you, but I see you have both hands full.” ‘* Thet’s so,” admitted Rube; ‘an’ thet’s w’y I hain’t got this hat off. {[ hope you won't think a = Wang ary leetle bit o’ disrespec’ ’cause I didn’t 1 ee ‘ake off my bat.” 5 oe ‘*Ob, no! not atall. Won’t you come to the : door and permit mother to thank you?” “Great Scott!” gasped Rube, turning pale and appearing on the point of taking flight. **Ernother shemale!” ** No one but my mother.” ‘“ Well, you'll hev ter ’scuse me, I’m in a tur- vible hurry. You kin jest take thet boy 0’ mine in thar with ye an’ thank bim all ther way ter Cinnabar. He hain’t got no boss ter ride, an’ +o he'll hev ter go on ther hearse,” As quickly as possible, the old fellow escaped from the laughing eyes of the girl, but he actu- ally felt weaker than he would if he had been facing half a dozen foes, ‘Hey, driver!” he called; ‘‘jest take this saddle up thar with ye an’ tute it ter Cinnabar fer us. ‘* Pll do it, ole man,” was the driver’s reply; “*fer you an’ yer pard chipped in at ther right time. Lreckon ther company’s in debt ter ye bd ¥er thet.” Although Chris tried to escape from Grace and ride with the driver, he was not successful, as both Mrs. Newmun and her daughter insisted that he should ride within the coach. With a farewell glance toward his dead horse, he entered. **T shall send some one out from Cinnabar to bury bim,” be declared. Once more the stage rolled on, the driver racking his long whip and yelling as if nothing bad happened. Round-up Rube galloped on close behind, ‘Do you belong in Cinnabar?” asked Mrs, : Newman of Chris. m The young cowboy shook his head slightly. : ‘* Both my pard and myself will be strangers ‘in the town,” was his reply. ‘** And we shall be in the same predicament,” replied Grace, a sad look falling upon her fair ‘young face, ** We are going there on business and to visit amy husband’s grave,” explained the widow. ba And the girl sighed: sical ; ** Poor papa!” The cowboy’s curiosity was touched, but be iy asked no questions, However, Mrs, Newman ‘ig saw fit to explain. “My husband was in business there, He was the principal owner of the Blue Jeans Mine, At least, 1 supposed Fe was the principal owner, but since Mr. Newman’s death, a man has ap- d who claims to be sole owner, I intend thoroughly investigate his claim, for I believe there is something crooked about it.” ‘ Very likely,” returned Chris, by the way of ng something, ‘Ob, [am sure he is a scoundrel!” vehement- ly asserted Grace, ‘ Father scarcely ever men- tioned him in his letters,” ; ‘“* Who is this man?” ‘One Martin Wynder.” ‘*Was he interested in the mine before Mr. Newman’s death?” : _ “He was in some way, although I cannot understand exactly how, _ In all but one of Mr. Newman's letters I was impressed with the be- lief that my busband was the principal or sole owner of the Blue Jeans Mine. There was, bow- | ever, one letter which sounded strangely unlike him, and, but for the bandwriting, “ should have pronounced it a forgery, In that he ee. of Martin Wynder as his partner and “You are sure the letter was not a forgery?” _ “Tt could not have been. I bave been familiar _ with Mr. Newman’s writing for letter was certainly in his hand. _ living who could have forged a letter in which I si Pig detected one slip.” thing t a “Then there nust have been something in h ment that this Wynder was his p rt inless: the letter “was written under com- as. SS ~~ Spl .ftss..aing babdies “ae 5 FEMA a mes ¢ 7. sa ears, and the ere is no one Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. *"¥es,” ‘* He made no mention of being compelled to write the letter you speak of? ‘ ‘Then it hardly seems possible he was com- pelled to do so.” ‘You are right. Still there is something about that letter I am not able to understand. Since Mr. Newman’s death, I have read it over fifty times, xt least, and it sounds stranger every time. The language is not like that used by my husband—or, properly speaking, J should say the phraseology is not like bis, In everything but the writing, it is as if a stranger bad written the letter and tried to write as he imagined a hus- band would write to his wife.” ‘* That is strange.” ‘‘Tt certainly is strange. There is somothing about it 1 cannot understand. Since Mr. New- man’s death, this Wynder bas come forward and laid clain: to the mine, producing papers to prove his right. He is in possession now,” ‘* But we will turn him out!” declared Grace, her dark eyes flashing. ‘‘ He will find he cannot cheat us, even though we are not men!” “7 admire your courage,” said Chris; ‘t and I sincerely hope you will be successful.” “Thank you.” ** Did this Wynder know when you started for Cinnabar?” “T notified him I was coming,” replied Mrs. Newman. ‘* And you say you believe those road-agents meant to kidnap you?” **Tt looked that way. Surely they had no no- tion of robbing the stage, and one of them asked if I was Mrs, Newman.” A sudden light broke across the young cow- boy’s face. “ That settles it!” he exclaimed. “Settles what?” ‘*The fact that this Wynder is a fraud and is playing some crooked game for the mine.” 4 Ww hat caused you to so suddenly agree with me? “The fact that those men plainly meant to kidnap you and your daughter, They were probably hired tools of this Wynder, who meant to prevent your appearance in Cinnabar. He hired them to stop the stage and ect away with you. Indeed, 1t may have been Wynder, him- self!” ‘1 believe Mr. Comstock is right, mother!” cried Grace, ‘*T did not think of that before,” confessed the widow: “ but it certainly looks reasonable.” ‘““Wynder must be a desperate man,” declared Chris. ‘* He bas possession of the mine, and in this country possession is nine points of law.” ‘“*We will make him get out pretty quick,” asserted the girl. ‘‘ We will find plenty of men to stand by us when they see we are right.” “That is true,” asserted the cowboy; ‘and you can depend on my pard and myself. I am ready to see you through to the end, and Rube will stick by me through thick and thin,” “It is a bargain!” exclaimed Grace, ‘We ean not ask for better backers, and if you stay by us, you shall not lose anything, Let’s shake hands over it.” For a second time Cowboy Chris accepted that warm gloved band, and thus the compact was sealed. CHAPTER III. WYNDER’S TOOL STRIKES A SNAG. Into Cinnabar rode Martin Wynder, mounted ona foam-flecked horse. Straight to the Blue Jeans Mine he made his way, Giving the borse to the care of an employee, be entered the office, venting a berst of wrath the moment the door was closed behind his back, “Such beastly luck I never saw before!” be snarled, dashing his hat upon the floor tben kicking it clean across the office, where it land- ed on a bit of fresh writing from the book- keeper’s Pe: “T will not ‘be responsible for that smooch, Mr. Wynder,” declared the rather effeminate- looking young man, as he removed the hat and gazed helplessly at the marred page. — ** Blow the smooch!” “T would, sir. if it would do any good.” ‘* Dustin, you’re a fool!” ‘Thank you, sir.” The meekness of the young man was some- thing little short of distressing, ~ Wynder stood twitching savagely at bis black beard and glaring at the unoffending book- keeper as if Ee would devour the little fellow, - ‘*T wish you bad a little more sand,” cried the self-proclamed owner of the Bloe Jeans Mine, ** T know I can trust you, Dustin, and you have been a great aid to mein my schemes. If you only bad a little more sand, you would be an in- valuable assistant.” * But, it is a distressing fact that I am a cowurd,” confessed the bookkeeper, with a sad shake of his head, one thin, white band gently caressing his silky mustache, ‘‘I do not sup- pose | can help it, for Lam built that way.” ‘“*Tf you only had the grit to serve me asI like, you should have an interest in the mine,” ‘*] fear I shall bave to remain contented with my present wages, Mr. Wynder.” The black-bearded man began to pace the floor, his hands clinched and his forehead wrinkled by a savage scowl, The bookkeeper watched him from the corner of his eyes, “it was a complete failure,” muttered Wynder, seeming to bave for; otten the presence of another in the room. ‘‘ The women will be in Cinnabar in less than half an hour, then the battle will begin in earnest. But for those in- fernal cowboys, my scheme would have suc- ceeded, desperate though it was. They had to appear at the very moment when everything was in my hands. Well, I have possession of the mine, and if I am not able to hold it, it will be my fault.” F “So you did not succeed in capturing the ladies?” It was the bookkeeper who spoke, and Martin turned like a flash. ‘* What's that?’ he snapped, his eyes glowing. ** What did you say?” ‘* Notbing, sir, uothing!” bastily stammered the young man, bis eyes falling before the glare of the other’s, . With three strides, Wynder was at the desk, and his hand fell on Howard Dustin’s shoulder, ‘* What—did—you—say ?” The Lookkeeper shrunk beneath that touch, beginning to stammer a reply. ** Hold on,” interrupted Wynder, ‘ Don’t Jie! You must be a mind-reader, Dustin, for I cer- tainly told you nothing of my plans. This is not the first time you have keen aware of my moves. By what means you obtain the know- ledge I cannot say. : ‘** No, I did not succeed in capturing the ladies, ‘ but I should have been successful had not two cowboys chipped into the game. We were ob- liged to give it up as a bad job, and Newman’s wife and child will be in Cinnabar before long. Then the fight for the mine will begin, and . hold the winning cards.” ‘*T think you do, sir,” agreed Dustin. ‘** Tf not, I will steal some more from the pack —with your aid.” ‘*-You can deperd on me,” “| believe it. ‘You will lose nothing by sery- ing me.” ** You have always paid me well, sir.” ‘*But, I am going to do still better by you, I do not know why it is, but I have taken a liking to you, Dustin. Your face seems to re- mind me of some one I have known in the past, though I cannot tell just who that some one was. You are handy with the pen, and may be | able to aid me in getting up some papers to use in this case. If I only knew what became of Newman’s papers I would be all right; but I am sure they are not in possession of his wife. | They were probably hidden; in which case, it is very doubtful if they ever come to the light of day.” e But if they should turn up—what?” ~ ‘*T would have to gain possession of them and destroy them.” : E “That would be the only way to hold the mine?” 3 “No; but that would be the better way. I can hold it by the virtue of possession and — forged papers. But something tells me it is go- ing to bea stern fight. I feel as if those cow-— boys who balked me to-day are oe to become stumbling-blocks in my patb. shall have to see to it that they are {disposed of, providing they stop in Cinnabar.” cn Rea id eae’ resumed walking the floor, and the bookkeeper bent over his work once more. Sud- denly the plotter seized bis hat and left the fice. we ‘“*T will be on hand to see the stage come in,” be said, as he burried toward the Wasbington Hotel. ‘I must receive Mrs. Newman ec diallv.” } Fon When he reached the hotel he was surprised hae
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giving Cowtoy Chris a rude thrust. . steps and through the crowd, _ evived at the door by Martin Wynder and the 4. Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. ‘You bet yer boots I did, boss!” was the re- ply. f W here is Pat?” “* We separated, an’ he struck roun’ by Devil’s “Good! That will make all three of us come in by different roads. We shall not be sus- pected.” **T reckoa not.” ‘‘There’s work ahead, Mat.” : a Ther more ther better, so long’s thar’s rocks n it.’ “ Those cowboys—” * Dern ’em!” “If they stop in Cinnabar, they must be downed.” ** Will it pay?” “‘T will make it pay. I will give a hundred dollars each to have them disposed of.” ‘*P'm your huckleberry!”’ ** You will take the job?” ‘* You’re shoutin’.” ‘*Good! The quicker you down them the bet- ter I will be pleased.” ** Pll jump ’em ter oncet.” “You must look out and do it in such a man- nerthat ther boys won't take it into their heads- to use you in a lyncbing picnic.” “Trust me, pard; Big Mat hes got his eye- tooths cut.” ‘¢ When will you tackle the job?” ‘* Didn’t you heur me say teroncet? I'll pick er fuss with one of ’em soon’s they striketown, All I ax of you is thet you will look out fer t’other ’un thet he don’t salt me ’fore I’m ready arter I’ve downed his pard.” “T will do it, play.” At this master and tool laughed evilly. A few moments later some one in front of the hotel shouted: ** Thar she comes!” Wynder and Big Mat hastened out and mingled with the throng. Through a cloud of dust the stage whirled into town and was swung upin front of the hotel with a flourish, Round-up Rube riding in besiderit. **Your’re a bit late, ole man,” cried one of the crowd to the driver. ‘* W’at’s ther trub?” “* Road-agents,” was the curt reply. . This threw the throng into a fever of excite- ment, for not since the half-forgotten days of her early existence had Cinnabar been troubled by the knights of the road. A hundred se questions were asked, but the driver re- ied: ‘¢ Peller ou ther hoss thar ur ther cow-puncher in ther hearse kin tell ye "bout it. I hain’t got time. They dipped in an’ sent ther agents skippin’.” ut when the stage door swung open and the throng caught sight of Grace Newman’s face, the road-agents were forgotten for the time,’’ * Gal in black!” ** Mournin’, [ reckon,” ** She’s a bu’ster!” ** Poorty as a chromo!” ** Thar’s an ole gal in black, too.” ‘Must be her mammy,” From the open door Chris Comstock descend- ed and assisted the ladies to alight, Mrs, New- man coming first. The passengerin gray made his appearance last. Big Mat shouldered bis way through the crowd, crying: ‘Stan’ back ‘hyer an’ make room fer ther ladies, you critters. Guv er clean pass thar!” Obedient to the bully’s command, a passage was made to the door of the hotel, ‘Git out ther way, you!” exclaimed rom eo ain’t got no use fer puppy d roun’ whar thar is ladies, Git out, I say!” ir With the final words, he slapped the young man’s face. Like a flash Chris Comstock’s fist shot out Of course, I will see fair _ straight from the shoulder, catching Mat Dolby fairly between the eyes and knocking the big blusterer down as if he had been struck by a - cannon ball! CHAPTER IV. A TREACHEROUS SHOT. ‘Tar blow was ‘‘a stunner,” such as it never ‘before had been the bully’s misfortune to receive. It sent him headlong to the ground, where, fora ‘time, he lay in a quivering heap escorted the ladies up the Then Chria quiet They were re- gs geo the hotel, v4 ain ape this is Mrs. Newman and her ? said Wynder, lifting his hat and ee Ee ee ee eee = SS eS es Se ae ee bowing with the grace of an apparent gentile- man, On being assured he was correct, he added: ‘*T am Martin Wynder of the Blue Jeans Mine, your husband’s partner and friend, I shall be happy to be of service to you, Mrs, New- man.” For ‘a moment the lady was startled by com- ing so suddenly face to face with the man she fully believed a scheming rascal, determined upon robbing her of her rights, but she quickly regained her composure and greeted the plotter with all the grace at her command. By this time Big Mat had staggered to his feet, and was loudly calling for the man who struck bim. ‘€ T shall have to ask you to e&cuse me, ladies,” said Chris, smilingly lifting his hat. ‘‘I see I am wanted back there.” Grace impulsively caught bis arm’and detain- ed him, speaking earnestly: ‘* Do not go back there, Mr. Comstock!” ‘* Why not?’ “ That big ruffian will hurt you.” ‘Do you think so? Well, he might try, Miss Newman; but I shall look out for Number One.” ‘¢ You would not get into a brawl with him?” ‘‘Not if he minds his own business, I have no taste for a quarrel with such a man,” ‘** Then do not go back,” ‘*T trust you will pardon me for telling you so, but, if I followed your advice, I should be act- ing like a coward, and every man here would think me one. No matter how much I may wish to avoid trouble with such a tough, I must meet bim if I am going to remain in Cinnabar. I have struck him, and I must give him satisfac- tion. There is no way out of it.” It was difficult to convince the girl that this was true, but she soon saw the young cowboy was determined to return and face the brawling ruffian, so she held out her hand to Chris, saying earnestly: ‘*T hope you will give him such a whipping he will learn to let gentlemen alone after this.” ‘“‘Thank you,” was his reply, as he pressed her hand fora moment. ‘I will do my best to teach him that lesson, and I think my success will be all the more certain by knowing I have your good wishes,” ‘‘Whar is ther measly whelp!” roared the voice of Big Mat, ‘* Let me git at bim an’ Pll carve his gizzard! I’m ther high howler of ther Sow-west, 1 am! Whoop! Whar’s ther critter as struck ther ragin’ lion of Cinnabar? Trot him out an’ let me etarnally claw him inter ripped up rags! I'll hey his wind fer thet blow! har is he?” “Were you inquiring for me, sir?” asked Chris Comstock, as he came deliberately down the steps. Big Mat wheeled, his arms akimbo, his hands resting on his hips, ** Wow - wow - woosh!” he howled, “ Wur I axin’ fer you? Wal, now you’ve hit it plumb center! You're ther cuss I am lookin’ fer!” ‘* What do you want of me?” “Wat do I want? Ob, boly ‘smoke! Will you heur thet, pards! This is ther cow-punch- in’ galoot thet hit me a belch atween ther look- ers, an’ now he axes w’at do I want with him! I’m goin’ ter carve bis hide, I am!” ‘You are making lots of talk you are not able to back up, you overgrown booby.” The bully gasped for breath. ‘* Who's er booby?” he shouted. ““You are. It must be you have been drink- ing too much coffin-varnish. [advise you to go soak your head.” With a yell like the blast of a steam-whistle the tough drew a wicked - looking knife and started for the undisturbed cowbow. ** Tl cut out yer lung, dern—” He halted suddenly, the muzzles of a pair of gleaming revolvers staring him in the face. Like magic they bad leaped into Chris Com- steck’s hands, and as the young man’s fingers gently pressed the triggers, the hammers par- tially arose. A bit more pressure would send two bullets through Big Mut’s head. “Hole on!” ami the astonished tough, ducking his head. ‘‘ Thet bain’t no go!” ** You will find it a go if you donot put up that knife,” was the stern retort. Round-up Rube had been quietly sitting on his horse, near at hand, not even offering to take a hand, which plainly showed he thought his pard fully a master for the Chief of Cinna- bar. A cbuckle broke from the old fellow’s lips as he saw how readily Chris brought the would- be *‘ carver” to a halt, “*Tain’t 1dir!” protested Dolby, ** T suppose not; but it is fair for you to come at me with a knife—of course it is! You thought. to catch me napping, but you made a big mis— take that time, you big ruffian!” ‘* Knife !—w’at knife yer talkin’ about?” - ** The one you bave in your hand.” Big Mat looked at the knife in apparent as- tonishment, “Didn't know I hed it in my han’,” he pro- tested. ‘I wuz so derned excited I never knew w’en I drored it. Thet’s Gospel facts,” “Very likely!” ‘Straight goods. But you hit me, youngker; an’ you’ve got ter settle fer it.” * You struck me first,” ‘*- You wuz ia my way.” ‘*That will not wash!” ‘¢ Anyhow you hit me,” doggedly insisted the- ruffian; ‘‘ an’ I’m goin’ ter hev satisfaction.” \ “* How are you going to get it” ‘€ Out of your hide, dern ye!” ‘* And you propose to take it by coming at me: with a knife when I am unarmed. You dare not meet me like a man with the weapons Nature- has provided us,” **T say so, ‘Wal, you lie! I’m jest yer man, an’ I'l} knock ther corners offen you!’ ‘‘Then give your weapons to one of your friends, I will dothe same, and we will meet. like men. What do you say?” Chris was determined to teach the man a lesson he would not soon forget, but he did not wish to have Big Mat’s blood on his hands, The bully hesitated for a moment, during; which several of the throng cried: **Go fer him, Mat!” ‘* You’ve got ter doit!” *¢ You kin down him!” ** Break his neck!” ‘* Thet’s jest w’at I'll do,” declared the chief, as he surrendered bis weapons into the hands: of a short, squat Irishman who appeared on the scene at this moment. “I'll break ther kid’s neck.” ‘* Begorra!” exclaimed the Irishman; ‘ yez: kin doit, me b’y’, It’s Pritty Pat as is bettin™ the poile av him thit yez kin!” Chris passed his weapons to Rube. ** Look out ther skunk don’t try some crooked game on ye, pard,” cautioned the bow-legged: cowboy, passing one of bis lower limbs around the pommel of the saddle and sitting side wise on. his horse, ‘‘He’s er p’ison snake, Ef I ketch era) any crooked work, I'll bore suthin’, you et! The bully rolled up his skeves and spat on his hands, keeping his eyes on the young cowboy al} the time, “You bain’t goin’ ter guy me ther slip, bab- by,” he declared, **T’m jest goin’ ter knock ther linin’ offen you.” The crowd was excited and delighted at the prospect of a fight, and the hotel steps afforded an excellent witness-stand, without placing an of the throng where they would interfere wit either of the parties engaged in the battle, ** Are ye ready?” asked Mat. ‘* All ready,” was the calm reply. “Wal, hyer I kem, kerwhoopin’!” The tough made a rush for bis foe, which was easily avoided by Chris, The rush was promptly repeated, and the cowboy slipped under the bully’s right arm, wheeling in time to give the big brute a whack behind the ear that sent him staggering a few feet forward, “Slippery, hain’s ye!” snarled Mat, turning for another charge. ‘ Wal, I'll git a punchat ye this time.” He did, but the “punch” was wasted om empty air, for Chris did not wait to receive it. At the same moment, with a nimble kick, the cowboy sent the chief’s hat flying from bis head! ** You should always fake your hat off on such occasion as this,” observed Chris, laugh- ingly. E Spose ou think thet’s funny !” growled the. tough. ‘Wal, I'll show ye suthin’ twicet as funny. Jest you keep still tell 1 git my claws on ye.” ** Allright; come ahead!” ' Big Mat accepted the invitation, but, when he came within reach of Chris Comstock’s arms, he was sent gering back by two blows he could not avoid. Fairly furious, the ruffien made another blind rush, only to find bimself caught at an advantage by AP Ck iron hands, The next moment the ief of Cinnabar was lifted off his feet, whirled in the air, and et a stood on his head, Havi ormed th trick, Cowboy Chris allowed his antagonist to fall flat on his back in the dust. A shout of surprise and delight came from the throng, The feat had been neatly executed, 4
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Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. vand many of the witnesses could not restrain their admiration. Big Mat lay still for a momeut, evidently -dazed by what had bagyenen blinking up at the clear sky. Then he slowly sat up and looked around, ‘* Wal, thet’s ther wu’st slip I ever made!” he asserted, ‘‘ Must hev stepped on some grease. Tried ter kick ther sun, 1 reckon.” ‘*Thet’s jest w’at ye did, vle man!” laughed one of the crowd; ‘‘but you wuz given a leetle help.’ ‘*Dunno as I jest understan’ it,” confessed the bully, as he scratched his head. ‘I never tum- bled in thet way afore.” . He ely arose to his feet, keeping his eyes on Chris,.who stood waiting for the attack to be resumed. ‘“Spose you think ye’r’smart!” sneered the tough. ‘‘Jest’cause I happened ter make er slip, you think you upsot me. Wal, you never done nothin’ of ther kind. Now I’m goin’ ter pummel ye, boy!” He advanced with more caution, his huge ‘clinched fists raised in an awkward guard, ‘Chris instantly fell into a boxing attitude, which. told he was no novice in the manly art of self- «defense, The fight now assumed a more serious aspect, Big Mat baving learned he could not handle the young man likeachild. Fora few seconds the ssparring was very creditable, then the bully began to press the fighting again. Once more be made a rush, and again Chris avoided him by slipping under his arm, As he straightened up behind the tough, the young cowboy reached backward over his own shoulders, and clutched Big Mat’s heavy shirt at “the shoulders, Then, throwing his body for- ward, Chris fairly flung the bully over his head. Mat landed on bis feet, but bis momentum was ‘such that be instantly sit down on the ground, suttering a grunt and a groan as his teeth snapped together, with his tongue between them. ‘* Begorra!” gasped Pretty Pat. ‘t Did ye iver see the loikes av thot! It’s th’ divvil’s own thrick, so it is!” “*Git up, Mat!” ‘* W’at yer restin’ fer?” ‘* Tired, hain’t ye?’ **-You’d better join a circus!” ‘* You’ve met more’n yer match, ole man!” This final declaration made the bully furious, He had long been known as the Chief of Cinna- ‘bar, and now he saw his prestige slipping from him—stolen by this deceptive young cowboy. Howling like a mad-dog, be leaped to his feet and sprung at the young man once more. Chris met him witha blow that would have knocked down a common man, but the ruffian’s rush was not stopped. “Now I hev got ye, dern ye!” he snarled, clasping his bated foe in bis arms. Just as this happened the smothered report of a pistol was heard near at hand, and, without ven a groan, Big Mat sunk to the ground. ‘* By heavens, he is shot!” was the cry that went up from the spectators, CHAPTER V, STANDING OFF THE CROWD. It was true; Mat Dolby had been treacher- ously shot down, But, who bad done the deed? That was a question no one seemed able to answer. The report of the weapon had seemed muf- fled, as if fired from a pocket, and there was no sign of pistol-snoke about any of the throng, Cowboy Chris seemed dazed for a moment, then he turned to the crowd, crying: “ Where is the man who fired that treacherous shot? The bullet was meant for me, for I felt it whistle past my ear, Who fired it?” There was no reply. ‘*It is some cowardly wretch who does not ‘dare to show bis head!” scornfully asserted the goung man. ‘I would like to get my hands on ‘him! “This is very foine torruk!” cried Pretty Pat. ‘But Oi am bettin’ ye know who foired the “shot, ye spalapeen!” ‘* What do you mean?” “Kin Oi makeme m’anin’ any plainer? Ye etind thit ye doon’t know who shot th’ b’y, nt ivs mesilf thit knows ye do.” “You are a liar by the clock, you monkey- mouth!” ; " Bagerra, I seen ye done it!” ‘Saw me do what?” ‘Shoot th’ b’y! Ye hiv a pistil up the slave uf yer coat,” Chris could not deny he carried a weapon in fis sleeve, and of a sudden be remembered he had not reloaded it the last time it was used, The little derringer beld an empty cartridge in its chamber! **That is a little too thin!” he retorted. I shot this man, others would have seen me do so, You cannot deceive the crowd with such a yarn, Irish,” ‘* Theer’s no decavin’ about it. Oi saw, an’ Oi belave theer wur ithers as saw th’ same.” ‘Which is quite true, ” asserted Martin Wyn- der, stepping forward. ‘I saw the weapon in the cowboy’s hand as he fired the shot. The trick was very neatly done, but I have a pair of keen eyes,” ‘* And a lying tongue!” hotly cried Chris, Wynder flushed angrily. ‘** You shall rue those words, young man!” he declared. ‘‘I might have interceded in your behalf, for I have no particular liking for Mat Dolby; but now I shall allow Dolby’s friends to give you what you deserve. Whether the man s dead or not, you tried to kill him. That ought to hang you to the nearest tree.” ‘* An’ begorra it shall!” shouted Pretty Pat, | it, ‘ Wheer is ta’ rope, me b’ys? It is th’ loikes av a lynching bee we will be afther hivin’!” Angry mutterings came from the crowd. Big Mat had not many friends, but the men were lovers of fair play and did not care to see the bully shot in such a treacherous manner. Chris faced them without flinching, his eyes flashing. ‘**Men,” he cried, ‘ will you believe such a ridiculous story? If 1 had shot this man, you would all have been able to see the act.” Martin Wynder stepped to the front, “1 saw it because [ was looking for something of the kind,” he declared. ‘Itis not the first time I have seén the trick performed, When skillfully done, it is apt to deceive every one around, This cowboy did it very neatly, but not quite well enough to fool me.” Chris gave the man a scornful look. ‘*Tf you do not get a hot corner down below it will not be your own fault,” he declared, ‘‘ You are the boldest liar | ever saw!” ‘“‘ If my words are not true, allow your sleeves to be searched,” sneered the plotter, who began to believe the young man really had a weapon hidden there, ‘Surely that is fair,” ‘* Yes, yes, that is fair!” cried a dozen voices. “Do you consent to this?” asked Wynder. ** No!” was the ringing reply. ‘‘ Your tale is preposterous, and I refuse to consent to the dis- grace of being searched!” ‘*That is enough!” nodded the claimant uf the Blue Jeans Mine, satisfaction gleaming in his dark eyes. ‘‘ You have condemned yourself! By refusing to be searched, you acknowledge your guilt. Boys,” turning to the crowd, ‘ what does he deserve?” “ Ther rope !” “That is roight!” shouted the Irishman. “ Hurro fer th’ rope an’ nearest tree!” Up to this point Round-up Rube had been lookiug calmly on, showing nothing more than ordinary interest. Of a sudden, he gavea low whistle, At this signal, Chris turned toward him, and Rube tossed his imperiled pard his weapons, which were skillfully caught by the younger cowboy. But, before Chris could get the drop, Wynder’s voice rung out sharply: ‘‘Hold hard! I bhaye you covered, young man!” : A revolver gleamed in the mine-claimant’s right hand, ‘An’ I hey you kivered!” asserted Round-up Rube, turning a pair of cocked revolvers on Wynder. ‘It w’u’d guy me great sackers- faction ter drill ye, fer you are ther blamest liar in seven States! My pard never shot thet galoot, but I more’n hafe believe you did, ye skunk of a hole in the ground!” _ At thismoment two more strangers appeared in town, both revs mounted on mules, one of tbe animals being large and the other small. The rider of the larger mule was a young man of rather fine appearance, despite the fact that he was dressed in the rude garb of a miner. Behind him a small prospector’s outfit was strapped on the mule’s back, The young man’s companion was a ‘‘ Heathen Chinee,” shoes, pig-tail and all. The animal which he rode was the famous ‘‘ Colorado Canary,” the burro. There was no prospecting outfit on the creature’s back, These two singularly mated strangers drew rein in front of the hotel, regarding the scene with interest. ‘** Hello!” exclaimed the young man. ‘ What does this mean? It looks like trouble,” “Velly blig flight,” commented the China- man. **Velly much one-slided. Cloud ali “Tf | younger man. | Bc jumpee on tlo ’Melican men. Giless we have to chipee in, dlon’t it?” ‘* Well, it looks that way,” confessed the ‘What do you say, Wun Lung, shall we take a band?” ‘* You blet! We tlake tlo hand! They flind we velly blad bloys. We shootee like blazes, Oi know what | How this flor high?” The Chinaman produced a huge horse-pistol from some hidden pocket, deliberately cocked it | and turned the muzzle on tbe crowd, at the same time grinning in a manner that would have stopped a clock, The other quietly produced and cocked a hand- some pair of revolvers. Thus the two cowboys unexpectedly found some allies, Martin Wynder was furious, “ We will hang the whole gang!” he snarled, “Whole glang velly hard cloud, you blet!” declared Wun Lung. ‘* We shootee-shootee velly mlucb; ylou glit hitee velly blad. We havee blood in lour eye. Yum!” ‘* Tt begins to look jest er leetle diffrunt, don’t my Christian frien’?” laughed Round-up Rube, coolly surveying-the claimant of the Blue Jeans Mine, ‘‘ Thar are bout ernough of us ter make it very warm fer you and your backers,” ‘*Mlake it hottee,” grinned the Chinaman. ‘*Mlake lem thlink Ole Bloy gotee blold of lem! Velly gleat plile of flun!” ‘* Begobs! we’ll make it hot fer yez, ye bloddy Haythen!” roared Pretty Pat. ‘* Whospleak slay not’ing? Velly mluch loom tlo plaint washee-washee slign on [lishman lup- r lipee. Chinaman he opee washee slop, bire lishman tlo havee slign plainted on lippee and stland in flont of slop. He, he! Gleat skleem! Catchee blig tlade. hoop-la !” This caused Pretty Pat to fairly dance with rage. ** Oi wull hiv the skelp av thit Haythen!” he shouted. ‘‘Begorra! Oi wur niver so insulted in all me loife bafore! Luk at th’ grin on the moog avy th’ crayther! It is enough to giv wan th’ paralysis, so it is!” ‘* Tlishman beapee blig fool! like ape!” ‘*Oh-wow! Lit me git at thit crayther!” But Wun Lung flourished his big pistol in a threatening manner. ‘“Bletter kleep Joff,” he observed. ‘ China- man blow velly large jat-hole thlough Ilishman, Llishman keep loff letee wind blow tlough wilis- kers him be all light to-moller; Llishman come at Chinaman gitee velly blad dose. To-moller him be planted where fowlers blow. Ketchee lon?” ‘“That is business,” declared the Chinaman’s companicn. ‘‘If you know when it is healthy, you will steer clear of Wun Lung, Irish. When he fires that blunderbuss in his hand it usually ve the whole country in front of the muz- zle, Martin Wynder stepped forward. **'Ycu have no right to interfere here,” he said, restraining his passion and addressing the youth on the larger mule. ‘‘ You will sim- ply get yourself into trouble. You are alto- gether too fresh.” ‘*Now you have hit me right where I live,” was the laughing reply. ‘‘ That is the matter with me, I am very, very fresh, and that is why I am called Fresh Ford. When I see a crowd like this on the verge of jumping one or two helpless men, I always have to take a hand, I can’t help it, because I am built that way. ‘But this young cowboy has just shot the man lying there.” Fresh Ford, as the youthful stranger had called himself, regarded Chris sharply, then turned toward Wynder, saying: “Well, itis allright if be did. I will betallI possess he did it in self-defense, He has the right kind of a face, and I am willirg to allow he is a boy to tie to.” : Wynder stormed furiously. “You shall pay dearly for this folly!” he snarled, **Velly gleat mlad,” snickered Wun Lung. “Dlance likee tlurky on blot plate. Kleepee clool, lole man; plaps may blurt lumslelf.” ‘*Thet is good advice, pard,” said the bow- legged cowboy, ‘‘Ther Chinaman has got more sense than you have, an’ thet’s a scandu- lus fac’.” Pia op shook his fist, first at Rube then at bris. “You shall hang for this!” he frothed, ‘“This man is dead—treacherously shot down while engaged in a contest with a person he sup- posed unarmed, and—” Who's dead?” suddenly demanded Big Met, : sitting up and wiping away some blood which. |
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G 6 ran down toward bis eyes. ‘‘I want ye ter know I hain’t dead by er derned sight! I reckon ther blamed bullet rubbed my skull poorty hard, but I’m allright. Still, 1 lows I hev got ernough of fightin’ fer ther present.” Then, to the astonishment of the crowd, he arose to his feet and walked uusteadily away. CHAPTER VI. WARNED—BY WHOM? MarTIN WYNDER utterel an exclamation of disgust as he saw the supposed dead man arise and walk away, while Round-up Rube broke into a Jaugh. ‘*Rooled erg’in, Whiskers!” cried the bow- legged cowboy. **Velly miluch gitee Lung. “That is about the liveliest dead man I have seen in a month of Sundays,” smiled Fresh z’ do so when this Chinaman appeared and shot one of them dead with tbat blunderbuss of a pistol. Then he charged on the other, uttering a yell that sent the would-be robber skurrying out of that section of the country as fast as his legs could carry him, Very naturally, [ swore by the Chinaman and we became friends— pards, you might say. We were both bound ting up in the washee business here, That ex- plains how we happened to appear on the scene just as we did.” ‘‘Fleshee bloy mlake long tlak, ’splain ebly- tling. Chinaman havee notling tloslay. Allee light; let her slide.” **Tt’ll be poorty likely thet you hev made some foes by takin’ sides with me an’ my pard,” said Rube to Ford, ‘‘ Both you and the Chinaman will have to look out for yourselves.” ‘© Well, I have found it necessary to look out for myself ever since I came into this part of the country, and I think Wun Lung is apt to have his eyes open.” left,” observed Wun ord, ‘* Well, this young cowboy tried to kill him,” | doggecly persisted Wynder. ‘* That is as bad | asif he succeeded, I do not believe the men of Cinnabar will allow the would-be assassin to escape.” But the spectators’ thirst for the young cow- boy’s life had suddenly diminished on seeing the bully arise and depart, and there were those who expressed their regret thet Big Mat’s career had not been finished by the bullet, saying Cin- nabar would be well rid of an undesirable character, W ynder suddenly saw the folly of pressing the matter further, and, witbout a word, turned away. ‘*What’s your burry?” inquired Fresh Ford. “ Ta-ta!” called Round-up Kube, in a tantal- izing manner, ‘“Melican man feel velly blad,” observed Wun Chinaman, ‘‘Melican man clach Chinaman sleeping hlave to gitee lup velly learly in day or stlay lup allee nightee.” ‘“ Well,” said Chris, ‘I am hungry, and I propose to have some kind of food to alter my feelings. Myself and pard are going to stop here at this hotel,” ‘* We are with you,” declared Ford. ‘Wun Lung heapee hollal on linslide! Him fleel blackblone when him lub stomach with handee. Bly gol! it mlake him velly tlired!” ‘* Wal, my. critter’s got ter be seen to,” ob- served Rube, ‘* And I must find somebody who will go out and bury my poor horse,” said the younger cow- boy, struck by a sudden thought. ‘I bad almost Lung. ‘ Him glo loff tlo ktick bimself.” forgotten him,” Pretty Pat had suddenly disappeared, and the The quartette passed around to the stables, crowd began to disperse. However, there were |. conducted by the landlord, who had now made his appearance, having disposed of his lady guests, It was not a difficult thing to find two men who agreed to bury the young cowboy’s horse for a reasonable sum, Then the four returned and entered the hotel. As they were passing into the building, a man brushed hastily past them, and Cowboy Chris felt something thrust into his hand. Lifting it, he saw it was a piece of paper, Chris whirled swiftly to spring to the door, but in so doing he collided with Rube and was detained fora moment. When he reached the door, the person who thrust the slip of paper into his hand bad disappeared. The young cowboy noticed there was writing on the paper, but he bad not paused to read it before endeavoring to discover who thrust it into his band. However, as seon as he saw the un- known had disappeared, he lifted the slip and read the words, which had been hastily written with a lead-pencil, The chirograpby was somewhat effeminate, This is what he read: y ae out for Martin Wynder! Heis your deadly ‘oe ” A warning, the import of which could not be mistake. But who bad tbrust it into Chris Comstock’s hand? That was a question he could not answer, and ou making inquiry of his com- panions, be found they had taken no particular note of the person who brushed past them as they entered, not a few who pressed around Chris Comstock ) with their congratulations on the manner in ) which he had handled the Chief of Cinnabar, But the young cowboy dia not take very kindly to their protestations, for among them he saw some of the men who had seemed the most eager to hang him for the supposed murder of the tougb. Among other things, Chris was warned to look out for Big Mat, it being said the ruffian would not rest easy till he had been revenged for his disgrace. The first thing the cowboy pards did was to express their thanks to Fresh Ford and his **Chinee” companion for so promptly siding with them against the crowd, “Don’t mention it!” laughed Ford. ‘* That was the must natural thing in the world for me to do, and I always side with the weak, no mat- ter what the odds. I can’t seem to help it, and I notice my friend, Wun Lung, is inclined that way. Allow me to make you acquainted witha white Chinaman, if you never saw one before, This one possesses that admirable quality known as sand, strange as it may seem—the grittiest kind of sand.” *Vally mluch sloft-slope!” exclaimed Wun Luong. ‘'’Melican man havee tlo ’scluse my blushee, Chinaman velly blashful.” *¢ You're ther fu’st Heathen I ever saw thet I wuz willin’ ter shake han’s with,” declared Rube: Since Sa proud to grip your fin, «y pig-tail rd.” With bis usual grin spreading over his face, Won Lung accepted the bow-legged cowboy’s hand, and Rube’s terrific squeez> was returned with an interest that amazed the old fellow, * You've got a grip like iron, No Lungs,” he said, ‘[ will risk you. ‘Now this yere’s my pard, Chris Comstock, as wite er lad as ever breathed ther rarefied atmosphere o’ this ga-lorious kentry. He's er hummer—er hull team, bull-purp under ther kerriage an’ all thet. He’s ther right kine ter tie to, you bet!” **T knew it the minute I set my eyes on him,” asserted Fred, grasping Chris’s hand, “Tam jest plain Rube Randall, ur Round-up “Rube,” added the wizen cattleman. ‘ Chris an’ T bev got tired 0’ bein’ tied down, so we're rovin’ roun’ in search fer excitement. We struck er hit jest outside this yere town ean’ er leetle more jest inside. { opine thar’s more ter foller.” “Tf so, I wonld like to take a hand init. My name is Ford Webster, and I am from the Hast, though I have been in the West long enough to — rough edge of the tenderfoot off me. ve been prospecting of late, and was on my way to Cinnabar when I was held up by two fellows who thought they would confiscate my moule and property. They were proceeding to CHAPTER VII. WYNDER’S STORY. WynvER bad informed Mrs. Newman he would call on her as soon as she was somewhat recovered from the effect of the journey and tell her the true story of her husband’s strange actions and death, The lady urged him to call as soon as possible, as she was eager to know the exact truth, and he said be might be around later in the day, if he could find the opportunity. Evidently he had little trouble in finding the opportunity, for, just as it was growing dusky, there was a rap on the door of the ladies’ room at the hotel, and, when the door was opened, Wynder stood there, bowing, bat in hand. **T have found time to run round to the hotel = tell you the particulers I promised,” he said. Mrs, Newman invited him in, and Grace placed a chair for him. Martin retained his hat close at hand, as was bis custom on all occa- sions. ‘You have come to tell me of my husband?” spoke Mrs. Newman, *T have,” ‘*T am glad you came so soon, for Iam eager for Cinnabar, Wun Lung contemplating set- | ‘* Keepee leys pleeled allee timee,” grinned the | ee ee RENTER NN AE TT ( eens ooo to get at the facts at once, I trust you wilh pardon me if I say your letters concerning bis: death aud the cause thereof bave been very vague and unsatisfactory.” ‘T am well aware they must have been, madam. It was not an easy thing for me to- write you the unpleasant facts, and bow mucb harder will it be for me to tell them to your face!” “But I insist on knowing,” firmly asserted the lady, taking a seat where she could look Martin fairly in the face as well as permitted by the gathering darkness, ‘‘It is my rightas a wife,” ** Jt can do you no good to know.” “ Still I would know, I feel there is some mystery about Mr. Newman’s death—a mystery I mean to solve. There is also something strange about the condition of his business as revealed since bis death,” ‘You have said as much in your letters.” “* Yes, for I did not dream but be was the sole owner—or very nearly that—of the Blue Jeans,” “Tt is really a siugular thing Mr, New- man did not see fit to inform you when he took me ipto partnership with bim. It was at the time when the mine seemed to have run out— the lead was lost.” ‘* How long ago?” “* About two months—a trifle more perbaps.” “And at that time his letters were the most hopeful and enthusiastic. He did not even hint. at any trouble.” Wynder lightly struck his knee, as if a suddem thought had flashed through bis mind. “ After all, that was the most natural thingin the world!” he exclaimed. ‘‘ His entire fortune was invested in the Blue Jeans; if it failed, he was ruined. Why should he not seek to keep the terrible danger from you?” The widow shook her head, ‘Tt was not like him,” she asserted. always trusted me in everything,” “It is plain he did not do so on this occasion.” **T am not so sure of that.” ‘* What do you mean?” “Never mind just now whatI mean. Go on, Mr. Wynder.” But the plotter hesitated for several moments, seeming burt by her recent words, ‘* ft is useless for me to tell you anything, Mrs. Newman, unless I have your confidence,” ‘‘ We must be sure a perscn is worthy of con- fidence before we bestow it,” ventured Grace, who found it difficult to restrain herself in the presence of the man she firmly believed was robbing them of their rights. Wynder shock his head slowly. “see you are doubtful. Well, I cannot help that. All I can do is to tell you whut I know, and regret I ever becume entangled in such an unpleasant effair, 1 am aware that you ladies look on me as an enemy, but lam nothing of the kind. Indeed, I am ready to be your most sin- cere friend. You are ina wild land, aod may need friends, It is a country where evi] men abound, and fair women are not safe without a protector.” ‘* But the particulars ycu were to tell us,” said the widow, impatiently; ‘let’s heer them,” ‘« Well, I will make tke story as brief as pos- sible, for I bave no care to drag cut such a tale.. It is a story of an unfortunate man beset by evil influences, which soon dragged him to doom, ‘*T first became acquainted with George New-- man about three months ago. At tbat tine L came to Cinnabar to look for an inve-tment, be- ing in a speculative mod, Then Newman was happy and apparently prosperous, for the Blue Jeans was paying, altbough it surely w#s) ot. panning out es wellas the Bonny Bess, We be- came acquainted by accident, and I sought his: advice in regard to investing the capital in my possession. He gave me some geod pointers,, to: k me into bis mine, showed me what he was: doing, and pointed out what be hoped to do,’ I offered to purchase an interest, but be flatly re- fused, although he did so with the courtesy which always characterized his genial ways. * At that time Mr. Newman suid the Blue- Jeans was more than paying its way, with a prospect of doing much better very scon. There was no reason why he should take in a partner,, unless we except the reason that two heads are often better than one—a fact Mr. Newman afterward found to be true. T thought no more of the matter, but looked around for another opening. In some way, Mr, Newman and I became very friendly, The so- ciety of thecamp was not very satisfactory to either of us, and it was quite a relief for us to get together and talk of things which these com- mon plodders never dream. Despite his busi-- “ George 0
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ness abilities, I found George Newman a man of fine thought and great ideality, Although forced to come in daily contact with the rougher side of life, it was not pleasant to bim, He was of asomewhat poetic temperament, and was a person I judged ir otis by another of stronger mind, a thing I afterward found true. ‘“* Within a week after visiting the mine with Mr, Newman I noticed a slight change in his appearance. He seemed worried about some- thing and was extremely nervous. I could not account for it, and, to tell the truth, I did not try, for I considered it none of my affairs. ‘*T was unsuccessful in finding an investment which pleased me, still 1 lingered in Cinnabar, meeting Mr. Newman each night and having a pleasant talk with him, But J observed how his nervousness increased, and I felt sure something was oing wrong. ne night he said to me: “* Wyn er, do you still wish to become my partner in the Blue Jeans? “T was startied by the suddenness of the in- quiry, but immediately asked him if he had changed his mind about selling a share. He ac- knowledged he bad. ““¢ But I will not deceive you,’ came frankly from his lips. ‘I have a reason for doing so,’ ‘¢ He then went on to speak about the possibil- ity of putting the mine’s stock in the market and raising a large sum in that way, but de- clared he was averse to that plan, yO may wonder why | wish to raise a sum of money,’ and he looked me squarely in the eyes. ‘ Well, lam going to tell you the plain truth, then you can come in with me and make a venture which will surely result in disaster or fortune, or you can stay out and be safe. I have no desire to draw you ip on false pre- tenses.’ ‘*T was impressed by his frankness, and it was thus he gained my confidence more quickly than he could in any other manner, Had he tried to conceal the truth, I should have suspeeted there was a reason why he so suddenly changed his mind, and I certainly would not have invested money without once more examining the mine, That would have shown me tle true state of things, and I would not have invested at all, as I would then have been sure he was seeking to deceive me. ‘“* He then went on to explain that thelead had been george’ and most unexpectedly lost, and at the same time the failure of a small banking- house in Denver bad left him with scarcely a dollar to carry on business, He was confident the lead could be recovered, but it would take money to carry on the search, and he was down to bed-rock, as they say out bere, He enjcined me to secrecy, eat was the only person who knew the truth, besides himself, “ Had I been thus inclined, I might have used my knowledge to ruin Mr, Newman, but be had . male no error in trusting me, As he had been 3% frank with me, I resolved to make an examina- tion and go in with him, if there was a show of coming out all right in the end. I told him as much then, and he pressed my hand warmly, “The following day L investigated, spending almost the entire day in the mine. hen I came out, I was convinced the lead could be re- ie covered, but that work was being carried on in the wrong direction, That night i completed the bargain with your husband, Mrs, Newman, a and became an equal partner with him in the 2 mine, a fact he said he sbould immediately write re. to 1 Did you not receive a letter to that ef- ect?” ‘*T have a letter in which he spoke of you as his pareeens confessed the widow. The gathering darkness concealed tbe look of triumph which passed over Martin Wynder’s ! “On the following day,” continued the narra- tor, I communicated my belief concerning the lea to Mr. Newman. It was some time before T could make him see the matter in the hight that I did, but he concluded to edg my theory a Work was begun in quite another direc- tion from which he had been prosecuting, and within forty-eight hours tae pay-streak was struck, It was not Jong before he was forced to acknowledge we had hit the true vein, and in a week’s time the mine was paying better than _ ever before, “Tt was about that time that a gambler ap- rapes in this town, calling himself Roy- He was a handsome and prepossessing fel- ow having a fascinating way about bim, and appearing a gentleman boro, But he was a - snake—a villainous rascal! -__ * Almost everybody in the mines plays cards, them, | away from him. Ru! ‘eile no theaters, no lectures, no churches, | Cowboy C Chris in Cpahee Card-playing is our amusement, Mr, Newman indulged only on rare occasions, but for some reason, Prince Royal chose my partner as a vic- tim, i do not urderstand w hy he did not select me, for I played a great deal more than George Newman. But the gambler seemed to know his business, and your husband, Mrs. Newman, was the person he decided to fleece, ‘*Now comes the unpleasant part of my story.” raat ee CHAPTER VIII. THE TRUTH OR A LIE—WHICH? IT was now so dark the expression on the man’s face was quite hidden. Mrs, Newman apologized for not procuring a light, saying the landlord had not yet provided them with one, “For which I am sincerely thankful,” de- clared Wynder, ‘It will be hard enough ‘to tell you the truth here in the dusky darkness, for it will be far from pleasant to your ears; but it would be a hundred times harder for meif there were a ligbt in the room.’ “(Zo on, sir,” came quietly from the widow’s lips.“ No matter how unpleasant it may be, it is my duty to hear it.” The cratty rascul cleared his throat, and con- tinued: “IT sincerely believe Prince Royal exercised some unnatural influence over Mr. Newman— more, I am sure of it. Newman himself con- fessed it was so, and the gambler did not deny it, bold villain that he was! “Tt was not long before Mr. Newman was spending the greater part of his time in company with Prince Royal, and the most of that time was passed in playing cards for money. - He—” But Grace could restrain herself no longer. ‘*My father was not a gambler!’ she hotly exclaimed. ‘* You cannot mwuke me _ believe that!” W hal sac} replied with deliberation: told you I had to come to the unpleasant part of the story, and I expected you would doubt my words; but [ am telling you nothing but the truta. Mr. Newman did n_t care to have it known he gambled, and the fact was kept a secret as much as "possible, although there were those in Cinnabar who suspected it— some knew it, Royal would come to the office of the mine, and Anat would play there, with drawn curtains, That is, they did so as long as I would stand it; but I final! y kicked against it so stoutly that they were forced to abandon that resort for another. Where this later place of misfortune was I cannot say. “Day by dey Mr. Newman grew haggard, anda da light crept into his eyes, He did not look one squarely in the face, as of old, I knew he was losing, snd I did my best to dis- suade him from further folly. It was useless, : The demon of cards had laid its foul grasp upon him and he was unable to break away. “1 have said I believe Royal exercised a powerful influence over the man he had chosen for a victim. Several times I asked Mr. New- man if he liked the man, His eyes world glow, and he almost always replied: *Tike him! I hate him! ‘Still, for all that, he allowed the gambler to Jead him on and on to ruin and doom. “One morning after anentire night spent with Royal, I found my partner in a wretched state. He was so excited and nervous that he wg ike a hysterical woman, Newman,’ I said, laying my hand on his’ shoulder as he sat in a chair at the office, ‘ you are killing yourself.’ ‘“He sprung up as if touched by an electric wire and dashed across the room, shouting: ‘€<Tt is not that! it is not that!’ “T was astounded, but I got him by the arm and forced bim into ‘the chair again, ‘** What do you mean by such an outburst? Iasked, ‘ You appear like a demented person this morning.’ ‘“** Crazy—demented!’ he retorted. ‘Tt is a wonder Iam not! Oh, that cursed villain!’ *** Who do you mean? *** Prince Royal. the infernal scoundrel!’ «Look bere, Newman,’ came soberly from my lips, ‘why don’t you drop that card-sharp? ** And he replied: ‘** Wrynder, I can’t! Strange as it may seem to you, I am telling the sober truth when I sav I cannot drop him, I have made at least a dozen resolves to do so, but I find it impossible to keep I do not know why it is, but, although I hate and detest him, I find it impossible to get He has me foul.” “OF course, I could not understand this, and I derided bim for his weakness, “6Ttis a ich ase 5 he confessed, ‘but one I wee ce am unable to overcome. Wynder, I sha!) kave my wife and child to poverty!’ “*Notit I can belpit? lened. ‘If leim do | nothing with you, I will try my Iuck with the | card- -sharp himself!’ A ‘I wish you would!’ came eagerly from bis lips; ‘I wish you would drive him out of Cinna- bar!’ ‘“T resolved to try that very thing, and with- out delay, I sought Prince Royal. eh him calmly sleeping at tbe hotel, and he was decided- ly angry at being aroused. But I was augry myself, and I went straight to the point, oe Roy. al,’ I said, sternly, ‘wtat kind of a game are you playing with my partner? “* Poker,’ was his reply— poker with a sky- high limit, Ob, it is a large game!’ ‘You know that is not whatI mean. You bave gotten Newman into your power in some way, and he is unable to get out. Now, let me give youa pointer: If you do not let up on hina there is going to be trouble.’ e actually whistled in my face. **Tt seems that something is gnawing you,’ was his insulting response. ‘ What do you take me for? ““* A card-shark and a scouncrel!—an infernal villain and a cheat!’ ‘*T bad my hand on a revolver, : nd I was fully determined to shoot him dead if | « attempted to Craw. But he did not; be simply !aughbed. ““*Tt won’t work,’ he asserttc. ‘You bave come here for the purpose of dra wirg me intoa fuss and shooting me, but I am tc« sharp for you. Keep a close grip on that revolw.r, pard.’ ‘Failing in this, [ began to threaten him, and I finished by asserting | would shoot him if he did not immediately leave Cinnubor, Again he laughed in miy face, saying I would change my mind when Icooled off. Ard I did; I did not want his blood on my hanécs. “ And so this attempt to save n~ jartner wes afailure. Royal remained, end iir. Newmen continued to gamble with him, ‘*One morning I found my partner i in a worse condition than ever before, a1! in a shcrt time I succeeded in discovering be bid gambled away every dollar cf ready money he possessed. *** Now you will have to stop,’ I said. ‘* He shook bis head. ‘**There is no such word as stop. Why, last, night that infernal blocd-sucker tried to get me to remain in the game and venture an interest in the mine! ‘““To say I was startled would be putting it mildly, began to comprehend tte full extent of the gambler’s villainy, and the thought that he might soon hold a share 7 the mine filled me with fury. ‘“‘ But what could be onc? ‘** There is only one thing,’ said my unfortun- ate partner. ‘1 must sell you my share in the © mie.’ ‘*And gamble the ncney away, as you have the other!” bs «No, I will leave Cinnabar. { will go away f secretly in the night when no one knows apy- ; thing about it. Once far, far awav, I will be all right, for I shall be beyond the influence cf this human devil.’ Oe ae ‘‘T considered the matter foralongtime,and — T finally came to the conclusion that he bad struck upon the only way tosave himself. But it would not do to let him bave the money __ till he was ready to dezart. I cautioned © ;| him to keep his intention a tei are 2 secret, while I would get everything ready for the move, — a To this he consented, and" the pln was carried © out. He transferred all the cl papers into my bands and made out some new ones, and, with — the money in his pessession, be left Cinnabar iy the night, promising to write me from Denver, “But, in some way, the villainous genmbkr — had become aware of Mr. Newman’s intention, and in the morning he was gene from the carr As soon as I learned of this, I became un asy and my uneasiness increased with the cny. — When night came I was vrable to sleep, fri dreamed horrible things of Mr. Newman’s 1: ur- der. I decided to send out a party to look for the man in the morning, and I did so, 3 ‘‘ Within ten miles of Cinnabar the body my former partner was found, It was brcu into camp and buried in our cemetery, He been shot through the head from bebind, an have no doubt but it was the work of Prin Royal. Nota dollar was found on the body ‘‘ That is the whole of the story.” There was a profound silence for several mo- ments, then the widow caught her breath with little asp and asked i ‘ou are certain it was my busband’s you found—you identified him?” “As wellasI could?” — : /
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and J am safe. me ‘ As well as you could? what do you mean by that?” Wynder hesitated, but Mrs, Newman insisted that he should answer. ‘Well, then, to tell you the truth, the body— and the face in particular—had been somewhat mutilated by vultures. Still there is not a doubt but it was your husband,” ** Why not a doubt?” “Tbe clothes were bis, and the things which the robber left in his pockers I recognized. They are here ia this package,” taking a paper-wrap- ped parcel from his pocket, ‘‘ And here is the ring which he always wore. That was proof conclusive, for I found it upon the finger of the corpse,” Tt truly seemed all the proof one could ask for. Grace was very silent. She bad sbed no tears, but the expression of Ler face could not be seen. “Tn the morning,” said Wynder, ‘‘if you wish, I will come over and escort you to your husband’s grave,” “Thank you. We will be ready to accom- pany you at an ealy kour ” The man arose to depart, but found himself confronted by a dusky figure that had arisen trom one of the otter chairs. ** Stop a moment, Mr, Wynder.” It was Grace’s voice, but it sounded strained and unnatural. The man involuntarily recoiled a step, as if he feared an attack, ‘‘ What has become of this Prince Royal?” The question seemed to take him by~surprise, for he hesitated and stammered before re- plying: “*T do not know.” *t Have you done nothing to find out—nothing to avenge the murder of the man who was your toer?” *¢- Yes, yes! I have done everything in my power. I put several men on tbe search for the dastardly wretch, and they trailed him quite to Santa Fe. There they lost track of him.” “ And did not find it again?” “ No,” “* They must have been anything but skillful trailers.” ““ They were called skillful,” ‘Tt hardly seems as if you have done your duty in trying to avenge my father’s death, If this gambler really killed my poor father, he shall be hunted down and punished as he de- serves, Lam nothing but a girl, but I could not rest while I knew my father’s assassin lived,” She stepped aside, and Wynder moved bastily toward the door, q sudden chill having passed over his body. As quickly as possible tn accord- ance with natural politeness, he bade them good- night, then departed, hen the visitor was gone, the girl came and knelt beside ber mother’s chair, * Mother.” Yes, my child.” ‘That man did not tell the truth.” “ Are you sure, Grace?” * Yes: something in my heart tells me he lied. He may have told some things which were true, Hae os lied about the most of them. He isa vil- n * You are right !” spoke a hollow voice, which seemed to float in af, the open window, ‘‘ He is a villain anda murderer!” ‘*Great heavens!” screamed Mrs, Newman, springing to her feet. ‘“ Thatwasmy husbana’s voice |” CHAPTER IX. TWO APPARITIONS, WYNDER descended the stairs and left the hotel, turning his steps toward the Blue Jeans Mine. He muttered to himself as be walked wae : “That was a pretty good yarn, although it had some weak poiots, I did not think they ‘would ask what I had done to punish Prince Royal forthe murder, and [ bungled a little right there, But, on the whole, I think they swal- lowed it quite well, They did not make the inquiries about the transfer of the mine the same as I expected, and my preparation for such questions proved unnecessary on this occa- sion, though it may come in handy later on. There is going to be a struggle for the mine. If ‘I only bad possession of that paper old New- ' man started to show me one day I would be all right, The paper is forever lost, without doubt, *T have some tools that are valuable, and - Dustin is one of them. He is the handiest fel- low I ever saw when it come to pen work, and he can get up some papers to deceive the very ; elect, 1 will set him to work on them to-mor- Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. row, for I ought to bave them now, If that fel- | low only had the courage of Mat Dolby, we would form a partnership to cheat the world. He lacks sand, I scarcely wonder, for he isa sissy-man at best. ‘““Tf anything should happen that Mrs. New- man attempted to get hold of the mine, I would fight for it. I could make a stern battle, and the chances would be in my favor. If I had ob- tained possession of the woman and girl as I planned, 1 would bave held them till tney made over everything into my bands—relinquished all claim to the mine. But perhapsit is well enough as it is, ‘¢Mrs. Newman is a really charming woman, If I thought there was a show for me, I would try my fortune there, With her for my wife, there would be none to dispute my claim to the mine, It is worth contemplating. But, if she knew the truth, she would not be likely to marry the man who killed her husband, for with my own band I sent the bullet through his head. The vultares mutilated bis body, and he is buried over yon in Cinnabar’s graveyard, “This is one of the great games of my life, | now know it was.a trick of my imagination, I and I have been engaged in mavy. Some have succeeded; some have not. It is true I am some- times startled by the magnitude of the crimes by which my hands are stained; but what is life good for if one cannot scheme and plot. It is half the pleasure of living in this world, and as for the next world— Bah! there is none} Death ends all! A dead man is dead; he never returns as a spirit. I will hold tothat, for never yet have I seen a spirit. Ican put no faith in what [. have not seen.” Talking or thinking thus, to himself, he reach- ed the office, which stood a short distance from the building that concealed the mouth of the shaft, Inserting a key, he unlocked the door and entered, It closed behind him with a snap of the spring lock, Wynder fumbled in his pocket for a match. “ Hang the luck!” he growled, ‘I do not be- lieve I have a match in— Great Scott!” The exclamation was caused hy the appear- ance of a patch of white light on one of the office walls, At first it was about the sizoof a man’s hand, but it gradually increased till it was as large as a person’s head, There was no expres- sion to it at first,and Wynder stared at it in surprise. But gradually the patch of light took the shape and form of a buman being’s head. By imperceptible degrees the features became plainer and more distinct till at last they hung before Wynder’s staring eyes fully recog- nized in all their ghastly and ghost-like horrible- ness. It seemed like the head of a corpse, and that corpse— George Newman! As if chained to the floor Martin Wynder stared at the awful apparition, bis blood seem- ing clogged in his veins and his heart almost ceasing to beat, Never before in all his life had he seen anything like it, for the features were ; the exact counterpart of those belonging to the dead owner of the Blue Jeans Mine. It was as if the murdered man’s head was there before his slayer’s eyes, a white light glowing trom every part of it, Then, to complete the villain’s terror, a hol- low voice, whick seemed to issue from the part- ed lips of the death-head, distinctly said: ‘ Assassin, perjurer, thief, your hours are numbered |” Like a flash, the ghostly head vanished, and the fear-strickon man was shaking from head to foot in the darkness of the office. With a gasping groan, Wynder wheeled and tore at the door behind him. By chance his band fell on the little knob of the spring-lock, and he was able to jerk the door open. As he did this, he felt as if something bad brushed lightly against him, and he fancied an unseen form had passed out into the night. But, Martin-did not stop. Utteringa cry, he leaped out of the office, slamming the door be- hind him, Straight toward the building which concealed the mouth of the shaft be ran, and all the time he felt as if he were pursued by some fearful thing. Never before in all his life had the man re- ceived such a scare, Reaching the bnilding, be cowered close under the wall, his breath sounding like the gasps of a dying person. Keenly his eyes searched the surrounding darkness, and he more than half- expected to see that horrible apparition appear before him again. For a long time he crouched and shivered there like a whipped cur. but gradually his nerves became quieter and ke was more like himself. Still i¢ was a long time before he ven- tured to utter a sound, At length, a harshlaugh broke from his dry lips. ‘* What a fool I am!” he huskily muttered. ‘*That was all a freak of wy imagination— nothing more! It cowld not have been any- thing more! There are no such things as spirits, and the dead are dead! Yet, how plain it was! I never saw anything more plainly in all my life. And the voicc—that was as distinct as pos- sible, I must be getting into a wretched con- dition to imagine such things! Can it be I am drinking too much and this is nothing more than a touch of the tremens? Great Heaven! I hope I am not getting into that condition!” He felt of his arms and legs and found they were still shaking a little. He tried to steady himself, but that he found no easy thing to do, ‘That must be the explanation—I bave been drinking too much of the vile stuff they sell for liquor out here, It is enough to rain any man’s nerves. If I had remained in the office and struck a light, | would have been all right. I will go back there. But no, [ am afraid I have not the nerve to do that, Although I am in no condition to re-enter that dark room to-night.” The more he thought of his recent fright the more foolish it seemed, and he roundly con- demned himself for so foolishly running away. ‘“ Spirits!” he sneered. ‘‘ Why, just before I entered the office, I expressed my opinion that there are no such bg 2 I have defied them a hundred times, and I defy them again—” * Beware!” Wynder jumped as if shot, wheeling toward the point from which the voice had seemed to come. There in the darkness he saw the dusky outlines of a form—a woman’s figure! ‘“ Who is that?” demanded the scheming ras- cal, lifting the revolver in hishand, ‘‘ Speak or I fire!” “Ha! ha! ha!” It was a chilling laugh, and it caused an icy thrill to run over the man’s body. ‘‘ Murderous wretch! from this hour to the hour of your death you shall be haunted by the spirits of your victims!” | Martin Wynder decided that. this was no hal- lucination, The words were really spoken by the woman whose figure he could indistinctly gee, ‘Who are you?” he snarled. trickery on me!” “T am the spirit of Hester Doyle, whom you foully murdered!” With a snarling exclamation, the haunted man lifted the revolver, pulling on the trig- ger. The weapon was a self-cocker, and the click of the hammer followed, but there was no report! “Poor fool!” came from the apparition. ‘ Do you think you can barm a spirit?’ “Well, I will try lead on one, and see what effect it will have!” Again he pulled the trigger, but the fall of the bammer was followed by a dull click and no re- port, Six times in all he repeated this act, but no shot woke the echoes of the night. Once more Martin Wynder was seized by an uncontrollable terror, “Flinging the revolver from him, he uttered a wild cry and dashed from the spot, rushing straight toward the center of the camp, the wild Jaugh of the mysterious fig- ure ringing in bis ears as he fled, CHAPTER X, STRAIGHT TALK FROM CHRIS, StraicHt toward the ‘“ Bang-up” Saloon rushed the terrified man, now and then casting frightened glances over his sboulder, Within the town he passed several persons, and more than one paused and stared after bim in aston- ishment, for never before bad they seen Martin Wynder tearing along after such a fashion, The frightened rascal did not pause till he was at the very dcor of the saloon, and could plainly hear the music, shuffling feet, babel of voices, and occasional shouts which came from within the place. Then he halted, bis hand seeking a second revolver as he stood panting at the door of the saloon, ** Gone!” The exclamation came from his white lips, as he made the discovery that his other revolver was missing, “ What in the devil ailed my weapon when I tried to use it, and where is its mete? Has the very Old Nick got into things to-night?” It almost seemed that way to the fear-shaken plotter. ‘What made me run? This is a question I cannot answer. I wassuddenly seized by an im- “Don’t try any
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Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. 9 pulse to flee, and I could not refrain from doing so, Something hesides my own will seemed to govern my actions. ; ‘‘ That was no spirit, but I surely did not im- agine 1 saw the woman. She was there, and had my revolver worked, I would have sent a bit of lead through her. That would have cured her of ber desire to play a joke on me, “Joke! Was ita joke? She claimed to be the spirit of Hester Doyle, and what person living knows Martin Wynder was ever anything to Hester Doyle? There is something about it I cannot understand. Hester Doyle is dead, for did I not put her out of my way when, after discovering our marriage was all a sham, she insisted I should marry her in good faith? I surely did! ** Yet who was that woman who knew of Hester Doyle? Great: God! Can it be there are such things as spirits and 1 ai really to be haunted by my victims? I cannot believe it possible, yet what other explanation can there be for what I have seen to-night, for I now believe I really saw the death-head in the office? “ And my revolver—what ailed it? Never be- fore has the weapon failed me, and I always carry it ready for instant use. Still, to-night every cartridge refused to explode, And that woman, were she flesh or spirit, did not seem in the least alarmed when I| attempted to shoot ber, Tf she was flesh—a human being—she must have been mad to face a man with a revolver in his hand. “My other weapon—what has become of it? Tt should be here in my left-hand pocket. I am sure I have not left it anywhere, so it must have worked from my pocket as I was running. ‘*T am now convinced that what I saw was not caused by the liquor I have been drinking. It was no hallucination of the drain, ‘* Here I am trembling from head to feet once more! What makes me tremble now? I am no longer afraid, I must be all broken up! I be- lieve I will goin and take a drink to brace my nerves.” Assuming as nonchalant an air as possible un- der the circumstances, he entered the saloon. Immediately on passing through the doorway, Wynder found himself in that portion of the Bang-up Saloon set aside for gambling. The att iabics were nearly all in use, aud a faro lay-out was doing a thriving business, Midway of the room was the bar, a set of double counters running across the room, leaving a wide’passage at one end, Between these two counters three men were kept busy setting out the drinks for the thirsty souls within the saloon. All the ng was kept under the bars. he further part of the room was the dance- hall, and more than two-score of human beings were whirling over the floor to the inspiring strains of a rather lively waltz tune. The music was provided by a barrel-organ, Wynder made his way to the bar and called for whisky, dashing off a glass as soon as it was placed before him. Once more he filled the glass nearly to the brim, but as he was on the point of lifting it to his lips, a band was laid upon his arm and a hoarse voice said: ‘twisted gentleman, Pard Wynder.” The liquor was disposed of, and; at a motion from Wynder, the three moved to a vacant ta- ble and sat down, “You made a bad botch of your attempt » dispoge of the cowboys, Mat,” observed Mar- n. The bully uttered a growl. “*T didn’t size ther young galoot up kerrect, he acknowledged, ‘Thar wnz more stuff in him then I thought, But, wet’s ther matter with ye, pard? You're white ez if ye hed seen er ghost, an’ ver han’ shakes.” “Oh, it?s nothing, notbing!” Wynder hastened to declare. “Iam all rigbt.” - “ Begorra! yez may be all roight, but th’ look @v yez gives yez th’ loie.” ” ee ae a See ae ae lr ee ~. 5 ‘“*Then you should remember appearances are often deceptive. But we were speaking of these cowboys. Where are they to-night?” ‘* Ef you'd looked very cluss, you’d seen them in this very saloon. Oneof’em’s dancin’, while t’other’s lookin’ on,” ‘* An’ th’ fresh b’y wid th’ Haythen Chinee is in here too,” added Pat. ‘‘ Oh, it’s gittin’ at thit pig-tailed naygur Oi’ll be doin’ wan av these toimes!” ‘¢T care nothing for this Fresh Ford and the Chinaman,” declared Wynder. ‘It is the cowboys I want disposed of as soon as possi- ble!” ““f kem mighty nigh bein’ disposed of w’en I wuz gittin’ at oneof ’em,” growled Mat, ‘‘ Irish made a bad shot thet toime,” ‘* Were you the one who fired that shot?” asked Martin. ‘* Be jabez! Oiam ashamed to allow thit Oi wuz. It’sa moighty big blunder Oi was afther makin’,” ** Well, I should say so!” ‘* Oi foired from me pocket, yez see.” “No, I did not see, but I suspected the bullet was meant for the cowboy,” ** Thit same it wur.” ** An’ it kem mighty nigh bein’ my everlastin’ sickness, I might hev downed the cow-puncher thet time,” ‘*Yez moight—in a born! Ye are no match fer ther b’y, me daisy. If ye downed th’ loikes av him, yez will hiy to do it whin he is not look- in? ‘© Well, I want him downed,” came from Mar- tin Wynder’s lips. [ care not how the job is done if they are only put out of the way. I have taken a hatred to them that I cannot over- come,” “ An’ is it a payin’ job, boss?” ‘*T offered Mat a bundred for each of them.” ** An’ he will surely take mein wid him, Th’ two av us kin polish thim off,” *Do not try it openly. Get at them when they are not expecting it.” ‘*Trust us for thit, Oi will tap thim a knock on th’ hids, an’ thin Mat kin give thim the lengtn av his knoife. Thit will put thim to sl’ape in foine shape.” “The money will be ready as soon as you do that, ‘* Are yez shakin’ on it, boss?” ‘Not bere, There are too many around. I do not care to be seen with you fellows too much.” At this both of the toughs uttered a growl. “Derned p’tic’ler, bain’t yel” snapped Big t, **Oi do not suppose th’ loikes av us are good enough fer yez?” sneered Pat, “It is not that,” Wynder hastened to say, seeing his tools had misunderstood bim. ‘* You know I joined in with you against the cowboys, and if we are seen too much together, it will be said I had a reason for doing so. There may be a row raised when these fellows are found cold, and you will need backers, If I step in, it will be all right, providing people cannot say I was behind the whole affair, See?” The two toughs confessed they. did. a Then I will get gh before we are spotted. eep your eyes open for your opportunity. yon bet.” . a oe if ** We will call fer th’ cash to-morrow, Misther Wynder.” As | The chief villain covertly slid a five-dollar gold piece across the table, “This is to pay for your bracers,” he said. Ma But have a care not to get too much of a load on, Pretty Pat’s hand covered the yellow coin, as that rascal grinned: ‘Thank yez, boss; ye’re a jintlemon av th’ a sort. May yez live till yez are ready to oie, Wrynder arose and left the table. As he did so, Cowboy Chris and Round-up Rube came out from the part set off for dancing. The bow- legged cowboy gave the mine-claimant a sig- nificant glance, and then turned toward the two toughs at the table, ‘* Birds o’ a feather!” was his comment, The chief rascal’s hand fell toward the pocket where he usually carried his weapon, but the revolver was not there. **Go on, curse you!” he grated, as the cowboys continued on their way. ‘t You are both marked men!” Something caused him to follow them across the room, and he saw them pause and watch the game at the faro table, The Chinaman, Wun Lung, was also a spectator near the table. As Wynder approached, the dealer looked up and perceived him, immediately calling: eee abs in Yh Leta Ie POPS Cy sly ie ay Fee ae ee eee aie ee er ‘Hello, Martin! Going to try your luck?” “Not to-night,” was the reply, ‘If I did, I should surely b’ust the bank.”. ‘*He, he!” snickered Wun Lung. ‘“ Him vel- ly gleat hand tlo blust blanks! many blanks, Blanks not he!” Wynder turned pale, then his face became dark as a thunder-cloud. “What do you mean, you infernal pig-tailed imp?” he suarled, taking a step forward, as if to lay hands on the Chinaman. ‘*Holdee lon!” cried Wun Lung, retreating a bit, ‘‘Kleepee bands loff Chinaman, lum gitee blurt!” “T want to. know what you mean!” asserted the angry men. ‘‘ You insinuated something, though it is difficult to tell what you mean by that infernal jargon. Explain!” ‘* No lexplainee.” ‘* Why not?” ** Dion’t havee tlo.” Ihave half amind to break im blust gleat this klind. He, “ By heavens! your nose!” Wun Lung promptly put up his hands ina guarding attitude. ‘*Comee lon!” he «ried. ‘‘Chinaman glib *Melican man tlo three ploints. Chinaman velly blad boy with fistee. Him tlake lessons lof Jobnee L. Comee lon, him knockee corner loff lum, see bow lum likee that.” ‘“*T will not disgrace myself by getting into a quarrel with such a creature,” asserted W ynder, with dignity. ‘‘But, if you are in town to- morrow, you pig-tailed whelp, I will see that you are run out or banged to the nearest tree! That is the kind of a man 1 am, and I mean business!” Chris Comstock stepped forward. “That isa threat you shonld be ashamed of, and you would be ashamed if you were anything but a most contemptible villain!” came deliber- omy from tbe fearless young man’s lips, ynder recoiled as if struck, and for several moments he was unable to speak, Finally he hissed: ‘You shall pay dearly for those words, you young puppy!” Chris snapped bis fingers. “That for your frothing threats, Martin Wynder, You can frighten nobody with them. You say you will see this Chinaman hanged or run out of town, but you will do nothing of the kind. The chances are you will be hanged yourself or run out of town.” ‘*You infernal dog!” panted Wynder. ‘‘ Do you dare talk like this to me!” The cowboy continued, calmly: ‘* My advice to you is to get out of Cinnabar while you have a chance and before the people become aware of the notoriously crooked game you have played, It will be better for you todo so, for the truth is bound to come out sooner or later.” ‘*T do not know what you mean.” ** Your pe say so, but they lie! You do know whatI mean! i have been making some inquiries concerning you, and I find it is still a prisons to many feo bow you bold possession of the Blue Jeans Mine. You came here only a few months ago in company with a gambler known as Prince Royal, and in some way oe got George Newman into your power. ou lured the man on while the card-sharp fleeced him. Royal has disappeared, and no one knows whither he has gone. Mr. Newman is dead, and ou hold possession of his property. There is a nig rat in the meal, and he is bound to come out, hen he does, you will find yourself in a tight corner, Martin Wynder, so-ca}led.” The mine-claimant’s face became pale once more, but his eyes blazed. ‘* You shall suffer for these insults!” he assert- ed, speaking as calmly as he could under the circumstances, ‘* You will find you have made a big mistake in trying to buck against Martin Wynder. I bave the pavers to show I am the rightful owner of the Blue Jeans Mine by right of purchase, I paid good money for everything I possess in Cinnabar, and 1 have not a few friends here who willstand by me against’ any one who may try to rob me of my rights.” ; ‘‘The time is not far distant when you and your friends will wish they had never seen this town, town who will not see found the weapon missing. Had it been there, he would have had no chance to use it, for Chri¢ Comstock cried, sternly: ; bis “Take vour hand off your pocket, sir! I you lined!” bav! \ “ f. There are Laiog: MPa hovest menin this — rge Newman's widow — and daughter robbed by a miserable scoundrel.” Wynder’s hand slid into the pocket which — usually contained his revolver, but once more he —
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gle gall 10 Which was true, the young cowboy having | drawn a weapon witk characteristic swiftness. With a snarl the villain’s hand was with- drawn. “Tt is your time now,” he said, with all the calmness he could command, Tight soon!” He turned and walked deliberately out of the saloon. CHAPTER XI. FRESH FORD ON HAND. Tur following morning Martin Wyndcr was on hand to escort the mother and daughter to George Newman’s grave. They were soon ready to accompany him, and the three set out together. Wynder was exceedingly polite and affable, seeming so much like a perfect gentleman that Mrs. Newman caught herself wondering if the man could indeed be avillain. If he were, then he was certainly to be dreaded, for he was no ordinary rascal. Cinnabar’s cemetery was on the outskirts of : the camp, the buildings at the mouth of the | Blue Jeans Mine being in plain view, When the graveyard was reached, Wynder ointed out a mound of earth which bad not en long erected. To the astonishment of the widow and her daugbter, a handsome marble shaft had been erected at the head of the grave, ‘*T caused it to be placed there,” explained Wynder. “I thought it would not seem so bare and lonely. I will have it removed, if you wish to put up another to suit your own taste.” They also saw fresh flowers had been strewn on the grave. Wydenr immediately left them alone by the last resting-placa of the unfortunate husband and father. Mrs. Newman’s tears flowed freely, but Grace’s eyes were dry. The girl had loved her father with all the affection of a true daughter, but for some reason, she felt no desire to weep as she stood there beside the mound, Upon the pure white shaft was cut: “GEORGE NEWMAN, “DIED JULY 21, 18—,.” For a long time the mother and daughter re- mained beside the grave. While they were there, the two toughs, Pretty Pat and Mat Dolby, came staggering along, both being un- usually full of bad liquor. ** Hello!” growled Big Mat, pausing with bis feet very wide apart and turning his red eyes on the widow and her daughter, ‘' Looker hyer, pard; byer’s caliker,” ss Begorra, thit is a fact!” nodded Pat. ‘It looks loike it wur th’ ould duck an’ th’ goosaling, Faith! an’ it’s a foine pair they be!” “Thet’s a fac’, Paterick, me noble sir. They jest look scandulus invitin’, an’ thet’s bed-rock truth !” ** It’s th’ young birrud as takes the eye av me, Oi’d not moind st’alin’ a kiss from the two pretty rid lips av her.” ** Ther old gal’s good enough fer me,” chuckled Mat. ‘“ Let’s go catch the pair,” “Oi am wid yez.” Mrs. Newman and Grace had overheard a * of this talk, and they were greatly terri- ‘* We must run, mother!” exclaimed the girl. ** But we cannot run fast enough to get away from them!” “Tam not sure of that; they are both intox- icated.” ** How are we to get past them?” ** We cannot; we must run they other way.” “That will take us from town, Oh, where is Mr, Wynder?”’ But the mine-claimant was not in sight, and there was no alternative but to take to flight, which they did. Instantly the two ruoffians started after them, calling for them to stop. This only gave them additional terror, and for a time they more than held their own with the pursuing toughs, This did not last long, for Mrs, Newman’s strength began to give out, Soon the heavy ima of the pursuers was heard close behind “Hole on thar!” roared Big Mat. ‘ W’at’s ee ter a , booed can’t git erway!” 8 ounly windin’ av yezzelf ye are, me foine birruds,” added Pretty Pat, » ‘ ith a ery of despair, Mrs. Newman whirled and faced the cowardly wretches, and the next moment she was clasped in Big Mat’s arms. ~“e Ha, ha !” lauged the brute. ‘* Now I hev ye, “ Mine is coming | Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. Grace whirled and came at the ruffian like a | furious cat, and in another moment Big Mat bad received such a scratching as had never before fallen to his fortune. “Ok, holy jumping up jee-thutter!” he howled. ‘Take this thing off ’fore I’m all tored ter pieces, pard! Take her off, I say!” | hits jist what Oi am afther doin’, me b’y,” and the Irishman dragged the screaming girl away. At this moment another person appeared on the scene: it was Fresh Ford. Snatching the girl from the Irishman’s grasp, he sent the wretch staggering to the ground, | knocked down bya single lLlow, In another moment, Big Mat was served in the same man- ner, The two astonished toughs struggled up, their | bands falling upon their ready weapons, | * Hands off, or chew hot lead!” It was Ford that spoke, and he covered the discomfited men with a paiv of heavy revol- vers, * Great thunder|” **Mither av Mowses!” ‘**T mean business,” declared the young man; ‘“‘and I bave more than balf a mind to shoot you anyway.” ‘* Hiven kape ye from hivin’ a whole moind!” “* Don’t shoot, pard—don’t |” ““Then get up and get out of this! Belively!” They lost no time in obeying the command, hurrying away toward the town, Fresh Ford put up his weapons and turned to- ward the mother and daughter, who were clasped in each other’s arms. ‘* Grace—Mrs, Newman!” ‘My gracious!” cried the girl, starting for- ward, her hands outstretched. ‘It is Ford— Ford Webster!” He caught her fingers in his grasp, and it is pretty certain be would have kissed her if her mother had not been present, “Why, Ford!” cried Grace in delight. ‘Is it really and truly you—can it be?” ‘lt is, without a doubt; but I little expected to see you here,” Mrs, Newman came forward and held out her hand, but there was none of the impulsiveness which characterized her daughter’s greeting. “T am plessed to see you, Mr. Webster,” she said. ‘‘ You appeared very fortunately for us, and we are bound to thank you ror what you have done.” There was something about these words which chilled the young man, and he instantly fell in- to a manner of gentlemanly reserve. Grace noticed this, but tried to conceal it as much as possible by her own friendly man- ner. ‘* How in the world does it happen you are here, Ford?” she asked. ‘‘ You are the last per- son [ would bave dreamed of seeing, and the one above all others I am the most pleased to see,” with something like a defiant look at her mother. ; Such words as these could not fail to be pleas- ing to the young man’s ears, and be showed bis gratitude by a look. Then came explanations as to the cause of their meeting, and for the first time Ford Web- ster heard of the death of Mr. Newman. Once more Mrs. Newman thanked him for what he had done, ‘We are stooping at the Washington Hotel, Mr, Webster,” said the widow, ‘‘ and we would be pleased to have you ¢all.” e bowed, but Grace detected a doubtful look on his face, and she instantly cried: “You must come, Ford! Give me your proroise that you will, You cannot refuse, and surely you have not forgotten old times!” Forgotten! No, not be! The memory of those old days was of the bitter-sweet sort that one does not easily forget, He accompanied them back to town, and be- fore leaving them, promised to call at the hotel, whick was quite enough to make little Grace happier than she bad been since hearing of her father’s ceath. a CHAPTER XII. THE SITUATION ASSUMES A NEW ASPECT. Forp WEBSTER and Grace Newman had been schoolmates and youthful lovers, but the girl’s father had not favored the young fellow’s atten- tions to his daugbter. The cause of this was a former trouble between Newman and Ford’s father, the former firmly believing Horatio Webster had bitterly wronged bim, When the attentions of the youthful gallant came to Mr, Newman’s notice, he had promptly forbidden Grace having anything further to do ——————— with the son of his enemy, and he had been seconded by Mrs, Newman. There is no more certain way of making two infatuated young people believe they are madly in love with each otber than by attempting to keep them apart, and G:-orge Newman discoy- ered his words had simply tanned the flame he hoped to extinguish, Then Grace was taken out of school and put under the supervision of a private tutor and chaperon. Shortly after this, Hcratio Webster died, ard Ford was thus left alone in the world, his mother having been dead several years, When his father’s affairs were settled, Ford discovered he had scarcely a dollar in the world, Greedy creditors swallowed everything. Then the young man resolved to strike out for himself and make a fortune, and what was more natural than tkat he should follow Horace Greely’s advice. In the mining country for- tunes were sometimes made in a day, so he became a wandering prospector, tenderfoot though be was, Up to the date of this story he had made no big strike, although he had suc- ceeded in finding sufficient “‘ yellow” to enable bim to exist, When he made the fortune be expected would surely come, be would return to the East and Grace should become his wife, How many nights, lying by his lonely canip- fire, he dreamed of the happy days to come! And now fortune bad thrown the youthful lovers together again. How would it end? Grace was trembling with excitement and, delight as she ascended the hotel stairs with her mother. ‘* Who would have dreamed of such a thing!” she exclaimed, being unable to restrain herscif till they were in their room. ‘‘ Who would have dreamed of seeing Ford Webster here! It is such a jolly surprise, And how handsome he has grown! and how brave he is! and how easily he sent those two wretches hurrying off! It is perfectly delightful, mother!” Mrs. Newman said bayricre ** Don’t you think it delightful?’ persisted the excited girl, “‘T think it very fortunate be happened alo: ¢ just as be did. There is no telling to what an extreme those intoxicated men would have one,’ ‘“Well, I gave one of them some scratches to remember me by, anyway.” When they entcred their room they were sur- prised to find a large yellow envelope which hac been thrust under the door. Mrs, Newman picked it up and found her name was written upon it: “Now, whocould have Yale this there?” she mused, gazing in a puzzled manner at the hand- writing. ‘‘Open it, mother!” cried Grace. what there is inside!” The widow deliberately tore open the envelope, but her deJiberation was a mask to her real ferl-- ings, for her hands trembled slightly. From the envelope she drew two papers, one of which was crumpled and stained asif it had seen severe usage, The other was a common sheet of ledger paper, clean and neaily folded. Opening this, she found one side was covered with writing. ‘Tt is for me!” ske exclaimed, her v«ice sounding husky; ‘‘and written by a women, L should say. But you can see to read it better than I, Grace, ‘Let me bear it.” The girl took the sheet of paper and read aloud, as follows: ‘Mrs. Grorce NEWMAN, * Rightful Owner of the ‘ Blue Jeans’ Mine; — ‘© Dear MapAM:— ‘““With ttis I inclose a valuable document which ae ey rizht as the sole owner of the BlueJ ans ine. Your husband purchased the mine ip your name, and it is thus recorded. I am wellaware! at the villain who calls himself Martin Wynder has formed and put into execution a scheme to rob yc it of your elaargf and Lhoepe to be instrumentel in his overthrow and ruin, for I hate him with an unc y- ing hatred. He is a bank-robber, bigamist, murccv- er—a dastard of the blackest die! He bas wron; cd me in a manner that can never be repaired, “T know not how this serpent succeeded, but in some way he crept into the good graces of Mr. N w- man. He exercised a wonderful influence over your husband and led him on to ruin. But his claim that he purchased the mine is utterly false, as the ace m- panying paper will show, for George Newman c \uld not sell what was not his. For all of this he holds possession, and he is resclved to make a desperate: fight to retain the property if needs be. Nothing but vigorous vim wil! oust the rascal, and I advise vou to louse no time in going for him as he deserves, Call an officer at once and have Wynder notified to abandon the mine. If he does not get out, enlist a force to back you, and take possession. This ma, seem a desperate thing for a woman to do, but it just what you will have to do if you hope to obtain. your rights. > * Let's sce
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“In conclusion, let me tell you of a thing I| suspect—a thing of which I am nearly certain: Z | believe Martin Wynder is the man who shot your hus- band/ In time, I hope to have proof of this, although there are enough other crimes of which he is guilty to hang him several times. : “Yur unknown — % It is impossible to describe the amazement created by this strange letter, Mrs, Newman examined the other paper, and found it was a aeed of the mine, which she really owned, For more than an hour, mother and daughter discussed the situation, and then Mrs, Newman found herself quite overcome by excitement. It was decided to summon an officer and have a notice served on Wynder without delay. The necessary papers were made out in the hotel, and the notice was served before noon. Chris Comstock and Round-up Rube accom- anied the city marshal to the office of the Blue Sonus Wynder met them at the door, Great was the daring schemer’s rage when the contents of the paper in the marshal’s hand was read to him, ‘*Tt is an infernal fraud!” he stormed, “It is an attempt to cheat me out of what is rightfully mine! But it will not succeed! My money pur- chased this mine, and I will hold it with armed men!” “Oh, go fall on yerself!” sneered the bow- legged cowbay. ‘‘ Your game is too thin ter work fer shucks! Ther hull town sces through it, an’ you will fine two-thirds o’ t:er people are ag’in’ ye. You'd best come off yer perch an’ git out afore ye are hurt bad.” Wynder shook his fists at the cowboys, Ot enew you were my enemies 4s soon as I saw youl” he cried. ‘ But you will find Iam the worst man you ever tried todown! I will ( live to see you both buried!” “Tf you do,” put in Chris, “‘ you_will have to get out of Cinnabar very lively, Your days in this town are past, and your game has fallen through.” : : They turned away, leaving the man snarling and frothing like a mac-dog. An hour later, Wynder appeared at the hotel and at once hastened up the stairs and knocked on the door of the room occupied by the widow and her daughter. Mrs, Newman answered the rap, but started back in alarm when she saw who her caller was, Wynder bowed with mock courtesy, but there was a black look on his face. ; “IT do not care to come in,” he declared, be- fore the woman could speak. ‘‘I bave called to see if you really mean to make an attempt to enforce your preposterous claim.” “T certainly do,” was the calm reply, be man laughed harshly. “You ara wasting your time, I have papers which prove my right to the claim.” **T doubt it.” ¢ ** What do you mean by that?” “Exactly what you heard me say. J have a paper which proves my ownership of the mine, which has been duly recorded in my name.” | “Do not try such a trick on me, such a paper in existence.” . “That is where rou make a big error; it is in There is no my sion,” “But your husband gave me a deed of the mine.” _“Ifhe did so it was without my consent or signature. I do not know as it was necessary to obtain either according to the law in this t of the country; but I do know he could not sell what he did not own,” “Tt is a plot to defraud and rob me!” cried Wynder, beginning to grow excited, ‘ If New- man took my money when be did not own the mine, be cheated me like a villain!” “Stop!” cried the voice of Grace, and the girl appeared at her mother’s side, her face white with passion. ‘* You need say nothing of the kind against my father! He was an bonor- _ able man, but it is plain he fell into the hands of ascoundrel, Ido not believe you ever paid him a dollar for the Blue Jeans Mine!” “Jt makes no difference what you believe, young lady. Your belief will not change the situation. I am not a man to be driven from __ what is rightfully mine, by two females!” __ You may find us more powerful than you think. We have some friends in Cinnabar, al- ‘thoagh we have been here but a short time,” “JT ¢gare nothing for your friends, I hold possession of the mine, and I shall ecntinue to hold it though it costs blood! If you persi-t, -.- you sball rue thé day you ever set foot in Cin- i> - nabar!”_ nen aye With this threat, he turned and hurried down. Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. CHAPTER XIII. WUN LUNG SHOWS HIS STUFF. As he rushed out at the door of the hotel, | Wynder collided with the Chinaman, Wun Lung, who was coming in. Uttering a snarl, the mine-claimant drew back bis clinched fist as | arter [ bit ye with this thing.” : if to strike the Celestial, but Wun Lung faced him without quailing or showing the least sign | that.” of fear, SE I Re SEE NE SSE ERE REAM IN Wee BESS ‘‘Bletter not hitee, lole bloy,” he advised, | ““Stlikee Wun Lung Chinaman velly blad chapee with dlukes,” - Something restrained the man, but he hissed: ‘You know too much to live, you pig-tailed dog! I will see that your hash is cooked with the rest!” “?Melican man tlurn clookee, hey? Bletter not glo into washee blisness, Chinaman bleat lum all hollalif lum do, Bletter stlay in blank- bleakee business. Gleat sluccess in that line, lole bloy.” 5 ‘“*T would like to know what you mean by that, you yellow-skinned imp of Satan!” Wun Lung winked and grinned in a knowing manner. ‘“’Melican man dlon’t know what Chinaman meanee? Bly gol! that velly flunny! ’Melican man gleat tlo gitee lound in the nightee. He flind way to gitee into blanks, Lockee-!ockee no glood tlo kleep lum out, Rakee in velly gleat bloodle. He! he! he!” ‘* He, he, he! you movkey-faced fool! You know too much to live long! You will suddenly die one of these days! Do you mind that?” ‘*?Melican man bletter glo fall on lumself!” Wynder fairly danced with fury. “Go fall on myself!” he frothed. “If you were anything but what you are, I would punch your head!” Wun Lung snickered. '** Heapee gleat plile lof flun! ’Melican actee like he was ’sclaped flom loonerticky ’slyium.” Once more Wynder seemed on the point of striking the tantalizing Celestial, and once more Wun Lung faced bim unflinchingly. “You are too big a fool to know when to be frightened!” **’Melican man chlangee his mlind ’bout Wun Lung be flool plitee sloon, Wun Lung velly mluch smartee than lum thlinkee. He gitee stladdle ’Melican’s neckee plitty quickee.” Wynder turned away, but seeing the two toughs, Mat Dolby and Pretty Pat approaching, he cried: “‘ Here, you fellows, make yourselves useful! Down this yellow cur for keeps, and I will pay you enough to keep you drunk for the next month!” ‘Do you really mean it, boss?” asked Big Mat, spitting on his hands and keeping his eyes on the hinaman, “Tf yez do,” added Pat, jerking off an old coat he always wore, and rolling up his sleeves, ‘** we won’t Pave ser much asa gr’ace spot av the crayther, It’s doying Oi am to git at the loikes av bim!” Wynder glanced hastily around, and seeing no = in the immediate vicinity, he said, ia a low one: “IT mean it, Down him—kill him some way! I will pay you well. He seems nothing but a Heathen, but he knows too much to live. Pick a quarrel with him, and give him the length of a knife when you get a chance!” * All right, boss,” ‘““His goose is the same as cooked, Misther W ynder,” The Chinaman had overheard enough of this to catch the full meaning, still he retained his composure in a remurkable*manner, and be did not even seem to look for a chance to escape. Such a chance there certainly was bad he taken to his heels, though it is possible he might bave been treacherously shot down by the two ruffians. Perbaps he knew this, and preferred to stand his ground for that reason, . ‘“‘Velly blave "Melican man!” he sneered, bis eyes fastened on Wynder, ‘“ Him flaid lof Wun Lung, blire tlo toughee clustomers tlo flinish Chinaman, That allee lightee, Wun Lung velly mluch able to tlake caree lof lumself.” ‘Down him, lads!” hissedWynder. ‘Come to my office when you have done the job.” hen he left the hotel and hastened away. Pretty Pat chuckled with villainous delizht, ‘* An’ now begorra we biv got ye, Haythen! 1t’s chewin’ yez up we will be afther doin’, Do yez moind thot now?” ; ‘* Tlishman heapee flool!” “Oh, yez hiv the garl to svay th’ loikes av thit, hiv yez! Well, lit me tell yez a thing or two: you are th’ fool, ye knave av th’ worruld! It’s an idiot yez made av yersilf whit ye troied to buck ag’inst Pat Muldoon, Oi s’id thin Ora oe gitee headee plunched, | togit skeered!- Jest gittin’ it through yer head | to scramble to their Wun Ng pp aryy oh a 11 hiv it out av yer hoide, an’ now Oi am about te k’ape me worrud.” ‘* An’ I'm goin’ ter holp him chaw ye up,” nodded Big Mat, lifting one huge fist and sur- veying it, ‘“‘Tbar won’t be nuthin’ leit of ye ‘““Wun Lung dlon’t want tlo gitee bitee with “* Ho, ho! the sitty washun ye are in! So ye are jest beginnin’ to realize Ye’re jest Leginnin’ thet ye’re goin’ ter be everlastin’ly chawed upt Wal, I don't wonder ye don’t want to git bit. with this batterin’-ram.” ‘No wantee glit bit. Chinaman cleanee now; glittee hit, then havee tlo glo washee lumself tlo glitee dlirt loff.” p ‘Great howlia’ thunder!” roared the chief, in amazement. ‘ Did you heur thet, , ard!” ‘*Beporra, Oidid!” ° ‘*Ther critter ther same as said thet my fist wuz dirtyl¥ ‘“*Thit’s whut he did.” ** Holy smoke!” * Lit’s go fer him!” “ Allright. We're comin’, you Chinee skunk!” At this moment Chris Comstock stepped out. a of the botel door and confronted the two ruf- ans. “Hold hard here!” came sternly from the 4 cowboy’s lips. ‘‘I happened to overhear your intentions asexpressed. So the twe of you were about to jump tho Chinaman. Well, I will let = daylight through you if you try it!” o The toughs drew back with expressions of an~ i ger and dismay, enraged at being balked in 4 their evil purpose. i But this did not suit Wun Lung. i ‘*Velly mluch ’bligee tlo "Melican man,” be 7 said. ‘*Tloughee bloysdiunk ; Chinaman lickee a bloth lof lum,” q **You don’t mean you want te fight both of these roughs?” Wun Lung ncdded. 4 ‘That *blout sizee lof it.” a Chris was amezed. a “The two of them will kill yeu!” he ex- = claimed. The Chinaman winked ina knowing manner, “Wun Lung velly bard bloy te kille. Him — knockee stufflin Icut lof lum.” “ ButI cannot see you fight them both! If Sn must fight—and you are the first Chinaman ever saw who insisted on suchathing!—take them one at a time.” 5 The Celestial shook bis bead, a ** Lickee bloth lof lum, They dlunk now; that: — not velly hard jobee,” 1a “They will not give you a fair show.” : *Tlakee my glup,slee flair show,”and the | huge pistol was extended toward the cowboy, ss Chris laughed and sbcok his head. = ‘*T am afrvid I should kill all three of youifE used that,” be said. ‘“‘But I am ready to see fair play, as you call it, and I will use one of — my own guns, if necessary. Still I think it is folly for you to encounter both of these toughs,™ — “Chinaman slow what made lof, Velly glood stuffy in Chinaman.” As the Celestial insisted on meeting the two — eyes prele ‘ those dogs tries a crcoked game, it will’ be the worse for bim,” By this time quite a little crowd had assem- bled, Round-up Rube being among the number, — ‘Ef thet Chinee is a match fer them tx 1 skunks, I'll sw’ar he’s er tiger from ’Waybsuck,? said the bow-legged cowboy, ‘“‘ Anyhow, he’s the dernedest quare Chinamen I ever sot my ole eyes cn, an’ thet’s Gospel.” are “Tloughee bloys allee leddy?’ asked Wu Lung, Fou bet!” Weaitin’ fer yeu”. * ** Lookee Jout flor,st!eam -injine!” Ape: With a yell that sounded almost like the b of a steam-whistle, Wun Lung cha ruffians, dodging from side to side in a manner that seemed to surprise bis_ most before they were aware of it dodged in between them. Then, witha impulse, both sprung forward to grasp bai Xe was not there, As a result, the “Hoop-la!” yelled the Celestial, | feet of both men from under them and the toughs rolling in the dust locked fast other’s arms, « , “ Velly gleat lot lof flun!” The fallen rascals ‘‘ unshac! Om = = «
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' tough. 128 Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. worthy rolling over and over, gasping for breath, Then the singular Chinaman turned his ‘attention to Pretty Pat. The Irisbman was on his hands and knees in ‘the act of arising to his feet. Wun Lung saw his opportunity, and improved it promptly, giv- ing Pat a kick that sent him sprawling on his stomach again. ‘* Howly mither avy Mowses!” howled the Irish “Tf Oi iver git on me feet, Oi’ll— Wugh!” Once more he had struggled to his hands and knees, but it was only to receive another kick that caused him to plow a line in the dust with his nose, ** Hoop-la!” shouted the Chinaman once more, ** How Llishman likee this flor change?” Then he gave Pat another kick in the same place. **Oh, great hoppin’ Hannah!” roared Round- up Rube, his face crimson with laughter. ** Hain’t I glad I lived ter see this day! I never saw so much fun in all my life afore! This yere’s er regler jubilee picnic, an’ thet blessed Chini- man is chief cook an’ bottle-washer! Oh, thet is ther blamdest derned delightful Heathen 1 ever saw! Six times in all Wun Lung sent Pretty Pat sprawling before he decided to remain quiet and rmaake no attempt to arise, By that time Big Mat had recovered his breath and struggled to his feet. He made a rush for Wun Lung, and the Celestial whirled just in time to meet it, How he managed to avoid the shower of blows the big ruffian rained ‘at him no one could say, but avoid them he did, and before long he found the chance to give Mat a “teller” exactly in the pit of the stomach, : That was enough. It quite knocked the Chief of Cinnabar out, But Pretty Pat was not satisfied, and he at- tempted to get in a blow at the back of Wun iLung’s head, It did not seem that the Chinaman was pro- vided with more than one pair of eyes, yet he seemed to see Pat’s movement without turning his head. Just as the Irishman drew back bis fist to deliver the blow, the left foot of the Celestial shot out backward. It was a kick that would have done credit to a contortionist, and it landed very nearly in the git of Pat’s stomach, sending him over flat on bis back, That was the erd of the affair. A Chinaman thad fairly whipped two of Cinnabar’s worst toughs! “i argaed fer Pig-tail!” bellowed Round-up Rube, And the crowd of a rough and tough mining- camp actually cheered for a Celestial! CHAPTER XIV. A WRONGED WOMAN’S REVENGE. From the hotel, Wynder hurried toward the Bl e Jeans Mine, muttering as he went: ‘* What does that cursed Chinaman know? ‘That is a question I cannot answer. It is plain that he knows something of the past, yet how iis it possible? Never since I assumed the excel- lent disguise of Martin Wynder havel been con- nected with the Dancan Wort or Seth Lawson vof the past, No, this is not true! I forgot the woman, or apparition, or whatever it was I saw last night, That thing seemed to know of my past. This Chinaman is not the fool he looks, for he knows ef my record. Can it be he is—” The man halted, bis face turning white, “Tf I thought so,” he muttered, savagely, after a few moments of silence, ‘‘ 1 would go back there and end his life myself. if I thought 80, [ would trust nothing to those half drunken fools. But it is hardly probable; I cannot have beet: trailed here.” He resumed his way to the mine, plone, have reach a crisis; the tug of war isathand. I knew itwas coming, but I wished ‘to put it off fora time. It has come sooner than I wished to have it, By to-morrow they will try to take the mine by force, but I shall be ready for them. Ihave sent Dustin after men; he will bring me some fellows who will fight like dogs for money. I will pay them well to stand by me, ‘Tt is plain Mrs, Newman has obtained pos- session of that paper I sought for after Newman’s How she secured it is more than I can It is true those death, tell. But she is only a woman! a cowboys are ber friends, but they are not smart - -enough to outwit Martin Wynder, A good part of the workmen will stand me, I fancy, and those, with the ones Dustin brings, will be suf- - Micient to stand off the whole town. _ “I may be forced to make some kind of terms Se a pe uo] with Mrs. Newman, but she shall not have a tenth part of what is hers—that is, unless she will marry me, Itis too bad this stage of the affair arrived before I could play that card, I might bave been a winner in an easy manner, But I will make the best of it. ‘** There is one thing I cannot understand, and that is what became of Royal’s body, I had no further use for the fellow, and so I shot him through the head, as | did Newman. Newman’s body was found, but Royal’s was not—not even a traceof it. Is it possible that the vultures de- stroyed one and only mutilated the other? It does not seem so, yet what became of the other body?” This was a question that seemed to perplex the villainous schemer. ** Well, both men are out of the way, anyhow. Hypnotism placed Newman in my power and led bimontodoom. Little does his widow dream that letter in which he speaks of me as his part- ner was written when he was in a bypnotic trance and fully under my control. 1 bhad per- fect command of his thoughts then, and he wrote exactly what I put into his mind. Ha! ha! hal Hypnotism is a great thing! Had I been given plenty of time, 1 would have tried it on the widow. Being successful I could have compelled her to become my wife whether she wished to or not,” Reaching the office, he unlocked the door and entered, only pausing a moment to listen to the sound of the quartz-crusher, the mine being worked as if nothing unusual had happened. “It is a pleasant sound,” he chuckled, ‘“* Grinding out dollars for my pocket! Oh that— Thunder!” ‘The exclamation burst from his lips as he saw a figure appear before him—a vailed woman who arose from a chair in which she had been seated. ‘* Who in blazes are you, and how did you come in here? The door was locked!” ‘Don’t you know me?” ‘Tf I could see your face; I might answer better.” ** You want to see my face, Seth Lawson?” The man recoiled as if struck a blow. ** Seth Lawson!” he hoarsely gasped, ‘“‘ That is what I called you.” The vailed woman’s voice was cold and me- tallic, and one of her hands was concealed in the folds of her dress. Weynder believed she clutch- ed a revolver, and he was right. ‘“ Are you a madwoman?’ snarled the man, ‘You must be! How did you get into this office? Why do you call me by the name of Lawson?” as Was not Lawson one of your names in the ast? “* Never!” ** Liar!” He took a step forward. **Stop!” Oue free hand, concealed by a glove, was outthrust. ‘‘ Stay where you are!” Her words seemed to chain him in his tracks. There was something strangely familiar in that tone, ‘ ‘* Have a care, Seth Lawson!” ‘Ah! ‘You call me that again! that vail—let me see your face!” ‘* Will you remove that false beard?” He fell back, a look of fear filling his eyes. ‘* What do you mean?” *T only asked you if ne would remove that false beard you wear. That makes you Martin Wynder; without it, you would be Seth Law- sop, ‘“Who is this Seth Lawson?” “A bigamist—murderer |” ‘** Woman, do you know what you are say- ing?” M “* Perfectly. Deny the charge if you can,” A desperate look came into the man’s eyes. **’You know too much for your own good!” he snarled, “T have not a doubt but you would murder me if you had a chance, The crime would be nothing new to you.” ‘* Remove that vail, or I will tear it aside!” ‘* You are determined to see my face?” “ Yés,” ** Then look |” Quick as thought, the vail was snatched aside, revealing the pale and somewhat masculine face. of a woman—a face that had evidently been handsome in the past, Wynder reeled back, a gasping groan break- ing from his lips, his hands pressed to his head. ‘Hester Doyle—Great God !” A bitter smile passed over the woman’s face, ** Yes,” she said, harshly, ‘‘ Hester Doyle!” * But she is deal—dead!” ** No, she lives—for revenge !” Remove It seemed as if the shaking man still believed himself confronted by a spirit, for his eyes were staring and his whole aspect one of abject terror. ** But—but,” he gasped, ‘“‘I killed her! She lay dead at my feet!” “‘So you thought, but you made a botch of thejob. She is alive, and she has come to square the score.” ‘*Then you are not—a spirit?” ‘“No; lam flesh and blood—I am the woman you so bitterly wronged and then tried to mur- der \ Now you do not deny you are Seth Law- sop! He did not speak. ‘‘ What has become of your true wife?” ** She is dead,” *¢ Another red stain on your bands!” ‘*No; sbe died a natural death.” “*T can scarcely believe you speak the truth,” ‘*T swear I do!” ** Anyway, she was killed by your wrongs to her. You married me while she was still liv- ing, and so our marriage was a sham. When I discovered you had another wife, you tried to put me out of the way.” ‘** And 1 cannot understand how I failed.” ‘T was spared to bring your evil career to an end. You are still engaged in crooked work, and, as usual, your plots. are against a woman, They shall end with this hour!” ‘What would you do?” ** Kill you I” The man’s hand crept toward a weapon. ‘*Stop!” From the folds of the woman’s dress came the revolver, and it was poiuvted straight at the cornered villain’s heart. ‘‘ You cannot get the weapon out quick enough,” A hunted look appeared in Wynder’s eyes. “Hold, woman!’ he cried. ‘ Do not makea fool of yourself! It can do you no good to kill me.” Again that harsh laugh came from her lips. ‘“You do not know me! Since I recovered from your attempt to end my life, it has been my one dream to obtain revenge. My time has come!” , ‘J will make all the reparation I possibly can,” “Nothing but your death will repair the rong you bave done me!” ‘“‘T will marry you—give you money—do any- thing!” ‘© You would kill me at the first opportunity!” *“No, po! I—” ‘‘ Tt is useless to promise. Prepare to die!” He saw there was no escape, and utteringa snarl, he snatched at bis own revolver, Deliberately the wronged woman .pulled the trigger, The revolver cracked, and Wynder fell heavily to the floor! For a moment the woman stood looking down at the result of her work, then she muttered: ‘*T shot him straight through the heart! Thus I am revenged!” She returned the revolver to her pocket, con- cealed her face by the vail once more, and, with a last look at the motionless figure, passed out of the office. CHAPTER XV. WYNDER’S DEFIANCE. BARELY bad the door closed behind the wo- man when Martin Wynder stirred and sat up, a look of crafty satisfaction on his face. ‘Fooled ber!” he hissed, triumphantly, ‘I don’t know how hard Iam hit, but I am still very much alive.” Hearose quickly to his feet and crept across the office, revolver in hand. Looking out at the window, he saw the revengeful woman walking away toward the camp, Swiftly he lifted the weapon and took aim at her back. But he did not fire. ‘*No,” he muttered, lowering the revolver and shaking his head. ‘‘I might miss, and I want to make sure of my work next time, I will let her go for the present, but she shall suffer for this little piece of work! ‘¢T felt her bullet strike me, but I do not feel any pain, I will see how hard I am hit,” An examination revealed the fact that blood had not been drawn. The bullet was imbedded in the handsome watch which: very fortunately for him, the plotter had worn over his heart, ‘The timepiece saved my life,” hesaid, paling a little! “Her aim was not faulty, but the watch stopped the bullet. I felt the lead when it struck me. It seemed to deprive me of strength for an instant, and I fell to the floor. It is fortunate I had sense enough to keep still, for a second shot would had finished the job, without a doubt, “But it is the most wonderful thing in the world that woman is living! I cannot under-
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stand it, for I surely thought I had ended her life, “T now understand about the second appari- tion I saw last night. It was this Nemesis, She played the trick very well, but I know not why my revolver failed to work. I searched for the weapon this morning, but could not find it, That glowing head I thought I saw in this room must have been a hallucination. “Tt is well for me that woman’s weapon did not carry a heavy ball, else the watch would not have stopped it. As it is, a good timepiece is ruined.” ; ’ And he might have added a miserable life was saved, . Straight toward the Washington Hotel the woman avenger made her way, little dream- ing the man she thought she had slain was un- harmed, Before she reached the hotel she came face to face with Cowboy Chris, and she made a signal for the young man to stop. He did so, wondering who she could be and what she wanted of him, : “T have a word to say to you,” said the Nemesis; without lifting ber vail. ‘‘ You have been making preparations to oust Martin Wynder from the Blue Jeans Mine. Am I not ge hris bowed. “You are.” ‘You are working in the interest of Mrs. Newman and daughter?” m ”n ‘Tf 4 “Well, if you will come to Mrs. Newman’s room at the hotel in about ten minutes you will hear something of importance, Will you be there?” 1 will.” : The woman bowed and went on, ‘That is a lady I never met before,” mused the young cowboy. ‘I wonder who she is.” Hester Doyle, to give her the name by which Martin Wynder had recognized her, proceeded directly to the room of the widow and her daugh- ter. Mrs, Newman answered the knock, *‘T trust you will pardon me,” spoke the call- er, “ but I have something of importance to tell you. May I come in a moment?” ‘‘Certainly,” was the reply. _ Hester Doyle accepted the chair which Grace ee i for her, but she did not offer to lift her vai “1 have come to speak about the Blue Jeans Mine,” she declared, with abruptness, Both motaer and daughter looked at her in- quiringly. ; ‘** You are contemplating taking possession of the mine by forces, if necessary?” “That is true,” acknowledged Mrs, Newman, “The letter you received this morning led you tosucha move” ~° ** Tt did.” ‘TI sent that letter.” You?” “ Yes,” o Then you are our ‘ unknown friend?” Tam. Ihave been working for some time to complete the ruin of this man, and by good fortune I was able to obtain ion of that paper which I sent with the letter. 1 intended to work his ruin a little at a time, but, for a cer- tain reason, I changed my plans and decided to end it allat once, Of course you understand I have a good reason for the hatred I feel toward ee I still hate him, though he is ‘* Dead!” cried both the widow and ber daugh- ter 7-3 a i perig ‘1 ‘*Yes, dead. He is fore past doing you further injury.” igo uid ae mans co incredible,” y, he was alive h ” fell from Mrs, Newman’s lips. > pomeiaaapalian “That is quite true, but none of us know what the next hour will om forth, Lam telling you the truth when I say Martin Wynder, your ene- my, is dead,” * How did he a 4 “Much better than he deserved. He should have been banged, but he died with a bullet in his heart,” ‘“ Who fired it?” ** T did!” Mrs. Newman and Grace started back in hor- ror, and a harsh laugh came from beneath the “You look at me as if I had don thing,” said Hester Doyle; “ but ae de ae know how this man wronged me, It isa wonder I have restrained ve Magra _ long as I have, for many an n Yy the dastard bas been ane hay ended his life to-day to pre- vent more trouble and bloodshed, for I knew he Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. ht for the mine. have a score of intended making a savage If I delayed longer, he woul ruffianly backers behind him. Once he tried to kill me, but I lived to destroy him. You should rejoice that the murderer of your husband is no more.” ** Do you know this man killed my husband?” “IT do not know it; still I have little doubts about that, He put him outof the way to get possession of the mine.” At this moment there was another rap on the door, and Chris Comstock was admitted. With a few words, Hester Doyle explained the situation, ‘** Now 1s the time to obtain possession of the mine,” she said, ‘It is not best to wait till Wynder’s friends learn of bis death, I know you are interested in the welfare of these ladies, Mr. Comstock, and that is the reason why I ask- ed you to come here. With Mrs, Newman’s consent, you are the very one to take possession of the mine and hold it against the toughs Who may try to drive you out. You have made friends with the better class in Cinnabar by the manner in which you whipped Big Mat.” Mrs, Newman was ready to consent to any move that appeared right, and plans were quickly formed for taking immediate posses- sion of the mine, A short time later, Chris was on the street, looking after his friends. Iltdid not take bim long to find those whom he sougbt, and soon five men moved toward the Blue Jeans Mine, They were Chris, Rube, Fresh Ford, Wun Lung and the Marshal of Cinnabar. Wun Lung seemed “all broke up” when he heard Wynder was dead, “Tlo bad!” he groaned, ‘‘ Chinaman no gitee chlance tlo givee him black eye, Chinaman havee velly gleat gludge ’gainst that lole bloy.” When they came in sight of the buildings at the mouth of the shaft, they were surprised to see several nen burriedly enter the ¢ flice. “What does that mean?’ exclaimed Fresh Ford. “Tt looks as if Wynder’s body had been found,” said Chris, ‘The report of the woman’s pistol was pro- bably beard.” ‘Thar wuzn’t much show ©’ thet, ‘less some galoot wuz ’roun’ ther office,” asserted Rube, ‘“Tber crusher makes racket ernough ter drown ther report o’ er leetle pop-gun same as thet woman most likely kerried.” When they had approeched nearer to the buildings, a man stepped out of the open cffice- gg hailed them. It was Big Mat, and he cried: “Wat do you critters want sneakin’ round hyer?” ““We have come to take possession of this mine,” replied the young cowboy. “Sho! You don’t mean it!” ‘* We do.” ny Wal, ye hain’t goin’ ter take it right off now, are Ree a hat is our intention.” ‘Wal, your ‘tention will git mightily stepped on. Martin Wynder hain’t goin’ ter guy up this yere pnt San el : 1 rtin Wvnder no longer has a claim upon it. He is dead,” - ae “That is where you are greatly mistaken,” triumphantly cried Wynder Teihes f, appearing at the door. ‘ I was never more alive in all my life, as you will discover if you persist in buck- ing against me. Iam in this mine to stay, and I defy all my enemies in Cinnabar to get me out, Yon fellows are barking up the wrong tree, and the sooner you take a tumble to yourselves the better off you will be, Now, you get out be- be hoe take a notion to riddle you with bul- e As if to add emphasis to the villain’s words, ip png eg Bye es took a snap shot at owboy Chris, and the bullet knocked th man’s hat from his head. beh CHAPTER XVI. A DASTARD’S SHOT. Ir would be difficult to depict the astonish- ment and disgust of Cowboy Chris and his friends, and their dismay must have afforded Martin Wynder infinite delight. Round-up Rube vented his feelings in no mild terms. ‘* Ther o’nery, no-’count cuss hain’t dead arter all, rot his hide!” grated the bow-legged cattle- man. ‘ It wuzall er blamed lie erbout his hev- in’ passed over ther dead range! It wuz er game ter fool us, “ Are ye hurt, Pard Chris?” *T am not touched at all,” Chris picked up his hat. “W shot aimed a trifle too high,” was the as hoever are That 13. “Ther next one may be lower,” said Bruce, the marshal. ‘‘It would be prudent to move back a little ef we don’t want ter git per- forated.” ‘‘ Wal, Pll hev one snap at ther chief cock 0” ther roost,” came through Rube’s teeth, as he snatched out a weapon. But Martin Wynder had been on the watch for sucb a move, and a single bound carried him through the doorway aud out of sight. From a place of safety, he yelled: ‘“* Not this time, old man! I havea dose laid by for you. If you fellows know when you are well off, you will get out of range. In exactly thirty seconds I shall tell my men to open fire, and you will be riddled it you are within range. I mean business, so git !” “Tt is the most sensible thing, = now,” declared the marshal, back, Wun Lung was delighted. “ Chinaman glit at Melican man knockee leye lout! Wun Lung havee chilance tlo plunchee velly blad "Melican, Hitee him in headee makee him nosee bleedee. ’Melican whisker man flind Wun Lung blad bloy tlo slet bim dlogees lon. He! be! he!” “This may be funny,” admitted Rube; ‘ but I fail ter see whar ther fun comes in, I don’t cotton ter this yere kind o’ er joke fer shucks!” ‘* That is because it is on us, probably,” smiled Fresh Ford, ‘ It is pests certain Wynder con- siders it very laughable.” ‘* But thet derned woman—” “Told a falsehood,” nodded Chris, ‘She seemed honest, but she must have been one of Wynder’s tools, The man put up this job for the purpose of harassing us,” a4 Wal, it’s our duty ter root him out o’ thar, an’ I propose we don’t lose nary bit o' time in doin’ it, Let’s git arter him without losin’ ary bit o’ time.” “« Just how are we going to do it?” ‘“*Thet’s ther question pards,” nocded the marshal. ‘How is it ter be did? “You can arrest bim.” “Por what?” ‘* We inust find a charge.” Rube turned toward Bruce. ‘Bf ye bed er warrant, w’u’d ye serve it?” ‘*I most certainly sb’u’d make the attempt. I hain’t got any love fer this Wynder,” ‘““Thet settles it! We'll fine some kind o’ er cberge, ur bu’st tryin’!” “TY have it!” exclaimed Chris. ‘I believe Wynder was tke leader of the road-agents who stopped the stage yesterday, and I will swear out a warrant charging him with that crime. That will be enough to put bim under arrest, and then it will not be difficult to take possession of the mine.” “Then come with me and sw’ar out ther war- rant,” said Bruce. **The mine must be watched.” “ Ther rest o’ us will look-arter thet,” declared the bow-legged cowboy. ‘‘ We'll jest camp down hyer, ur hyerabovts, an’ keep our lookers out fer faa a a ** Kleepee velly sharp watchee Lung. No letee lum glittee loff. This being settled, Chris and Bruce departed, leaving the others on guard, **T do not know as it was necessary to leave any one to watch Wynder,” said Chris, as they moved along. ‘There is little danger of the man trying to slip away.” at He l) hole ter ther Blue Jeans ter ther last. gasp. **T don’t know but it would be a good thin if he would get out, We have no use for him. “Ther Chinaman seems ter want ter git at him pretty bad.” “Wun Lung is revengeful.” ‘* He’s ther derndest Chinaman ever I saw!” ‘“* He is certainly a queer Heathen.” ‘“‘ Ther pig-tailed critter’s smarter’n lightnin’!” “Well, you have not made a mistake in that. statement.” ‘¢ Et must be ne knew Wynder before hestruck Cinnabar.” ‘“‘T think so myself,” “‘ Waal, I’ll do my level best ter rake in Wyn- der fer road-ridin’, an’ I'll git bim somehow, Ef he won’t come down, I'll call on ther town ter back me, Then we'll git him ef we hev ter pull thet ranch down ’round bisears, But do ye really think he wuz ove of ther critters as i] esc yet ther hearse?’ “ Waal, road-agentin’ is ernough ter hang er man in this yere part of ther tol “But murder will hang him : Chris and the marshal Pret por can do just they all fell grinned Wun Y n : er!” 4 mrt and looked around, Directly bebind them was “1s
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ie i Thave _ them 14 @ ragged, white-bearded, vagabondish-looking man, who had evidently overheard their con- versation. ‘*Good-day, gentlemen,” said the stranger, touching the lepping brim of his old hat, “I happened to overhear some of your talk, You spoke of one Wynder?” ** We did.” “He isthe man ’who holds pessession of the Blue Jeans Mine?” ** Yos, sir.” ** Well, he is a murderer.” ** How do you know?” ‘© Tsaw him shoot a man.” ce Who?” ‘* Was not George Newman, the former pos- sessor of the Blue Jeans, found with a bullet through bis head?” ‘¢ He was!” exclaimed Chris, excitedly. ‘‘ And you saw Wynder dothe deed? By heavens! this is the very evidence we want!” * An’ it hes come jest in time,” nodded the marshal. wis a at swear out a warrant charging Martin Wynder with murder?” asked the cow- boy, trying te study the face of the old man, but getting very little satisfaction, as the stranger’s features were almost concealed by bis beard and drooping hat-brim, **T will,” was the prompt answer. ** That is enough!” cried Chris, with satisfac- tion. ‘ You can go with Bruce, while I will in- form Mrs, Newman her enemy still lives.” An’ ef ye git yer han’s on thet other shemale,” said Bruce, ** jest make her explain’ w’at she meant by seck an infernal lie,” ** Tl do it.” Chris turned toward the hotel, while the ragged stranger accompanied the marshal. he cowboy’s rap was answered by Grace, who grected him pleasantly, her face eager with expectation, ‘Mother has been quite overcome by the ex- citement,” explained the girl. ‘‘ Have you taken possession of the mine?” “T regret to say we have not.” ‘*Have not—why?” ‘* We found Martin Wynder still in posses- sion,” “ But—but—” * Ho is net dead.” ‘*Not dead?” cried Mrs. Newman, throwing back the curtain which bad been arranged to hide the bed, and appearing. ‘ That woman told—” ** A lie.” The amazement of the widow and her daugh- ter was great, “She seemed like a friend,” faltered Mrs. Newman; ‘and she said she sent that paper.” “ That also must have been a falsehood.” * But how did you know about it?” * You forget that. Wynder knew.” * And you think—?” ‘* She is one of the villain’s tools—yes,.” “* Tt does not seem possible!” ** Where is she now?” ‘* She departed immediately after you left.” ‘* Well, she is probe beyond our reach, but we hope soon te have Wynder in our grasp.” “ How?” ‘A man has appeared who has gone with Marshal Bruce te swear out a warrant charg- ing Wynader with murder. Bruce will serve it immediately. As soon as the villain is under arrest it will not be a nard matter to take pos- session of the mine,” Mrs. Newman was not profuse with her thanks, but in a ladylike way she gave Chris to understand how much his kindness was appreci- ated. Avd when he had departed, she said to Grace: “ He is a noble young man, my child, He has the frankest, openest face I ever saw. If it were only he instead of Ford Webster!” Chris was soon joined by the marshal and the ragged stranger. Quite a crowd followed them toward the Blue Jeans, it having been rumored that something unusual was about to take ce, Rute greeted them with the declaration that Wrynder was still in the office, but be had re- ved am addition to his force in the person of a ‘small, dark-clothed man whose borse was still hitched not far from the office, “If he does not receive a greater addition than that, we stand a good show of coming out at the top,” smiled the younger cowboy, _ Chris wished to pita agn od Bruce when he served the warrant, but marshal would not consent, st will mot dare harm me, for they know of friends,” he said; ‘‘ but some of critters might take er notion ter putt a Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. bullet through ye. Ef I can’t take Wynder alone, then I'll hev some one go ‘long with me.” He boldly advanced toward the office, the warrant in bis band. When he was still some distance away, the door was thrown open, and W yonder appeared, “Hold on there, Sam Bruce!” he cried. ** What do you want?” “Tam arter you, Martin Wynder,” was the reply, as the marshal continued to advance. ** Halt, I say!” shouted the villain. ‘* What do yon want of me, Bruce?’ ‘*T have a warrant here for your arrest.” ** Well, you can’t serve it to-day, for I decline to be arrested. lf you don’t chain up, one of my men will put a bullet through you!” Still Bruce boldly advanced. f You cursed foo]! shouted Wynder. ‘ You'll get— His words were broken by the whip-like crack of a rifle, and, flinging up his arms, Sam Bruce ee heavily to the ground, treacherously shot down! CHAPTER XVII. A FATAL BLUNDER. WuHeEN Hester Doyle had vanished, Wynder turned from the window, exclaiming: ‘*T will wager something she goes direct to Mrs, Newman with the information that I am dead! If she does, there will be a crowd here to take possession of the mine before long. 1 must be prepared to receive them.” He hastened out of the office and entered the mine, In a short time be returned, accom- panied by five rough-looking fellows, “Tf you have to fight, I will pay you well,” he declared. ‘‘ Everything is on my side, and I shall come out triumphant in the end. Remem- ber there will be big money in it if you are forced to figbt. I am _ hourly expecting six good men from Wild Hog Bar, asI sent for them in the night. When they get here, I shall be ready to defy Cinnabar.” A few moments later, Pretty Pat and Mat Dolby appeared. They bore tke marks of their encounter with Wun Lung. “Did you kill that infernal Chinaman?” eagerly asked Wynder. “*Begorra, an’ it’s very near bein’ killed our- silves we came!” as erted the Irishman, ‘* Thit crayther is the very divvil on whales!” ‘“He is wuss then a wild cyclone!” growled Big Mat, rubbing bis stomach, “You don’t mean to say he got away with you both?” shouted the mine-claimant, in sur- prise and disgust, ‘* Faith, an’ thit’s about the soize av it!” ‘* Well, vou must have been asleep! I am ashamed of you! Why didn’t you knife him?” “Tvs thit Oi thought av dein’, boss, but wan av thim cow-puncbers stood ready to shoot at the soign av it, yez Honor.” Wynder’s rage and contempt was unbounded, but he finally said: ‘“You can stay here. [ expect a crowd from town to attempt taking the mine, and I am going to stand them off. You will add to our force, though I scarcely think you better than dummies.” It was not a great while before Chris Com- stock and his companions appeared and were received in the manner already related, Wyn- = chuckled with evil satisfaction, as he saw e little sag falling back. ‘*T fancy they will think it over a while be- fore they come at us again,” laughed the dar- ing rascal. ‘‘It must be pretty plain to them all that Martin Wynder means business,” **Oi jist wish Oi hid shot a litthle lower,” declared Pretty Pat, who fired the shot at Chris. ‘*Thit w’u’d hiv inded the loife av thit gallus young cock av a cow-puncher.” ‘Which might have been a bad thing for us,” said Wynder. ‘‘I would like to see both of those cowboys oe out of the way, but I don’t care to have it done while they are trying to take the mine—unless it is absolutely necessary. If any one is shot, it may get us into hotter water than we care for at present. When the men from Wild Hog Bar arrive, I shall be ready for war. ‘* Nixt to the cow-puncher, Oi’d loike to puta bit av lead th’ough Sam Bruce,” growled the Irishman. ‘It’s niver a bit av love am Oi wastin’ on th’ loikes av bim! thot now?” Wynder paced nervousiy up and down the office. * If Dustin would return,” he muttered, glanc- ing from the window at his enemies, who were discussing the situation, ‘‘I am beginning to Do yez moind get nervous, for I believe those fellows mean business, They are not going to give over the attempt to take the mine,” ‘*They’re boldin’ a pow-wow of some kind,” said Mat. ‘ How like thunder they must hev bin s’prised! It wuz’bout ez much funas I hey seen lately.” Wynder went to where a Winchester rifle was slung against the wall and’ took the weapon down. He examined it and found it was ready for use. ‘* Tf worse comes to worse,” he observed, “‘ this can be used very effectively.” Then he stood the weapon beside the window, where it would be bandy in the time of need, ‘‘They’ve kem ter some kind of a decision, boss,” said Big Mat, who had been watching from the window. ‘* Ther Chinee, ther bow- legged cow-puncher an’ ther fresh hev stopped ahind, wile ther. marshal an t?other cowboy’s gone fer town.” Wynder knit his brows. ‘TY don’t like that,” he confessed, ‘It looks as if those fellows who have remained behind were left to watch until the others’ return. If that. is true, it must be they have decided on some scheme by which they hope to down’me.” ‘*Oi’d loike the foon av thryin’ a pop at thim wid the roifle,” asserted Pretty Pat. ‘‘ Oi reckon Oi’d make thim move back a litthle out av thot.” “Tt would not do,” retorted Martin, shaking his head, ‘‘ Where iv the world is Dustin?” It was not a great while before Dustin ap- peared, but, to the plotters’ surprise and dismay, the bookkeeper was alone. ‘‘ Where are the men I sent you after?” cried Wrynder. ‘* Why have you returned alone?” “The men are on their way, sir,” was the re- ply. ‘*They will be heresoon, Iam not much ahead of them.” The villain’s face brightened at this informa- tion. ‘“T wish they were here now. The sooner they get along the better. We have already had some trouble,” Then he told the bookkeeper what had oc- curred, “Tt is probable an attack will occur soon,” he concludec, ‘“ Are you willing toremain here in the office and take your chances with the rest of us, Dustin?” The young fellow hesitated an instant, then replied, firmly: **) will remain.” Martin nodded with satisfaction, ‘‘Good enough! You may not turn out to be such a coward after all, Dustin. You have done a good bit of work by riding to Wild Hog Bar, and you shall have the money I promi ou. If you stand by me through the trouble which may come, I will pay you as much as I do these others, and your salary will be going on just the same.” “Thank you, sir.” sagen caused W ynder to regard the meek yourg man ina puzzled manner, What was it that seemed so familiar about Howard Dustin’s face and voice? If he could only get a good look at the eyes concealed bebind the glasses, he fan- cied he could solve the mystery, Dustin did not seem to like the close scrutiny, for he turned away. * Oi say, boss.” Well, Pat.” ‘‘They’re comin’,” It was true. Chris, Bruce and the mange’ stranger appeared, followed by quite a number of Cinnabar’s citizens. ‘* Who is thet ole rag-bag?” asked Big Mat. No one seemed to know the strange old man. Pretty Pat’s eyes glowed when he saw Marshal Bruce advance alone, and when the officer failed to stop at Wynder’s command, the Irishman softly cocked the rifle, ‘““Begorra, Oi bel’ave Oi’ll bore him!” he thought. It happened that little attention was being id Pat just then. Had it been otherwise, Sam ruce might not, have fallen before the fire of the murderous-minded rvffian. When he saw the marshal absolutely refused, to stop, the wretch lifted the rifle, took quick aim and fired, dropping the man instantly. But Marshal Bruce was not killed outright, He slowly arose to his feet and staggered toward his friends, crying: “Pve got it, pards—got it fer good!” Before he could reach them, he fell again, Cowboy Chris was quickly bending over the brave fellow, tearing aside the clothing to get a look at the wound. “It's clean through my right lung,” said Bruee, faintly. ‘‘It’sasettler. P’r’aps you kin patch me up so I’ll last tell you root them crit- ee .
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ters out of thet nest. Id like ter see ther imp thet shot me!” ‘You shall see him if you live an hour!” came } sternly from Chris Comstock’s lips. ‘* Some- | body gofora medicine sharp. Pard Rube, see ) that every man in Cinnabar knows what bas dha»pened, and when you return, bring every man with you who is ready to see this dastard’s work avenged.” Rube lost no time in obeying. Wynder’s rage and despair cannot be depicted, ‘Oh, you fool!” he screamed, as he rushed into the office and seized Pretty Pat, shaking the Irishman till his teeth rattled. ‘‘Do you know what you have done? You have ruined every- thing! Bruce was tha most popular man in Cin- mabar, The very devil will be to pay now!” “But the whilp did not stop whin yez told him. He would biv been afther arresthing yez in a minute more.” ; ‘Nothing of the kind. I would have stepped back into the office. If he entered, we would have taken him prisoner. Now, after what has happened, we shall bave the whole of Cinnabar on us aud have to fight like dogs)” Some of the men looked frightened, for they ‘were sensible enough to understand how serious the situation really was. ‘Our only bopeis in tae arrival of ‘the men from Wild Hog Bar,” declared Wynder. Preparations were made for a desperate bat- tle, and these were scarcely finished when a sound of many voices was heard and a large crowd came hurrying out of the town, led by Round-up Rube. “They’re coming!” grated Wynder. ‘ Every man stand to his post! Fight to the last gasp, for it means hanging if we are taken!” The crowd only paused for a moment around ‘the wounded marshal. With yells of fury, they charged toward the mine, weapons gleaming in their hands. And at the very front were the two cowboys With Fresh Ford and Wun Lung. CHAPTER XVIII. THE STRUGGLE ENDS. *T will have the life of that cursed cowboy!” viciously snarled Wynder, as he seized the rifle and took deliberate aim at Chris Comstock, Before the weapon could be discharged it was ‘dashed aside, and Howard Dustin leaped like a tiger upon the chief villain, shouting to the Others: 6: “Help me secure this man! Do not resist the men of Cinnabar and you will not be harmed! ’ Pretty Pat is the only one who needs to suffer, The rest have done nothing for which they will be punished. It will be madness to try to fight that crowd!” With a howl of fury, Wynder tore at the Small but strong white hands which had fastened upon him, y “A traitor!” he raved—“an infernal traitor! Down him, boys!” Pretty Pat was the only one who offered to obey the command, The men seemed to under- Stand the folly of the fight against the enraged citizens of Cinnabar, and even Big Mat was ‘cowed, But the Irishman leaped forward and gras Howard Dustin, who cried to the men: ‘“‘Help—help me, and I will stand by you 43 when the men ot Cinnabar come! I can save ' your necks!” That was enough. In another moment the rough fellows precipitated themselves upon Wynder and the frishman’ resolved to do what they could to save themselves from lynching. “Ob, you treacherous curs!” frothed the doomed villain, as he struggled like a madman, “*T would like to kill you all!” The struggle was useless; the two men were quickly overpowered, and the excited citizens - who came bursting into the office fonnd them helpless prisoners. Ay _ “ Hold!” eried Howard Dustin, springing for- _- ward with uplifted hand, as the weapons of the mob were turned upon the men within the office, “Do not shoot! We surrender!” fe “ Thet’s whar your beads is level!” retorted : Round-up Rube, “Ef ye hedn’t, we'd blowed thunder outer ye!” : \ _ “Where is the man who shot Sam Bruce?” _ was the cry that went up, chilling the very _heart’s blood of the wretched Irishman, _ “He is here, a helpless prisoner,” was Dus- reply, ‘I know the justice you will give 4 him, and I hope you will serve in the same man- _ ‘ner the man who brought bim here; but before anythin of the wd was clamorous for the blood of the kind is done, I wish to make a | Pri caused a stone to be erected bearing George Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar. man who had shot Bruce, but, at. the bookkeep- er’s entreaty, Chris, Rube and Ford did their best to restrain them fora time, . ‘** Hullo, lole bloy!” grinned Wun Lung, as he bent over the chief pont, whose schemes had been ruined at a blow. ‘*’Melican blank- bleaker don’t lookee velly well. Him feel velly blad, Allee tlied lup with stlings, s’posee him have these listers plut lon slee how tum likee that.” From a pocket the Chinaman produced a pair of handcuffs which be deliberately snapped on the man’s wrists, ‘* Now Chinaman tlakee loff liskers,” he chuck- led, and with very little trouble be removed Wynder’s luxurious beard, which was thus proven false. ‘*T thlought slo, lole bloy,” nodded the Celes- tial, ‘‘ You are the chapee tbat clackee the Waterville blank and slootee clashiere. You gitee your neck stletched flor that jobee.” ‘‘Curse you!” frothed Wynder. ‘ You area detective in disguise!” “ That is right, Duncan Wort,” came from the lips of the one all Cinnabar had believed a Chinaman till that moment. ‘‘I am Spotter Scott, of the New England force. You have given me a tough chase, but I have run you down ai last, and now you shall answer for your crimes. I would have arrested you when [ first appeared in Cinnabar, but that beard was a really clever disguise, and I was not sure I hed hit the right man. My face is one that can be easily made up as a Chinaman’s.” “Wal,” drawled Round-up Rube, “this ’splains a thing thet has bin er derned big puzzle ter me. I c’u’dn’t understan’ how thar ¢’u’d be er white Chinee with ther sand thet you hey | mother were brought face to face with George ” ‘*T have the first claim on this man!” cried Howard Dustin. ‘‘ Heis mine!” ‘*Ob, you miserable traitor!” grated the un- masked villain, glaring at the bookkeeper. think I trusted you so and was thus deceived! I do not believe you went to Wild Hog Bar at all.” “You are right,” was the reply. “I did t.”? “T would like to get my hands at your throat!” “ But you never will, Seth Lawson.” ‘Ha! ‘You call me that!” ‘Yes, for that is your truename, You call mea traitor. I have good causetobe, I work- ed my way into your confidence for the purpose of ruining you. When you trusted me the most, I was the worst foe you had in existence.” “ At times I have recognized somethin familiar about you,” confessed the beaten rascal, ‘*T have thought perhaps you were known to me in the past.” ‘“* You were right. Now do you know me?” The glasses were removed, and the young man bent forward to fix a pair of burning eyes on the orbs of the one he had so deceived, \ **Greit God!” ‘Ha! ha! You know me now!” “* Hester Doyle !” “Right! I am the woman who tried to end your miserable life a short time ago. HowI failed I cannot say, but now you are doomed. Now you understand why the cartridges in your revolver failed to explode. You often hung your coat in the office here, and yesterday I re- moved both revolvers, and fixed the weapons so ak were useless.” he helpless man groaned with rage. “The Tenth-head you saw in this office was some of my work, done with a tiry magic lan- tern, It nearly frightened you out of your senses, as I hoped it would, “You escaped my bullet, but I have brought you - your doom at last. You shall not escape now The woman avenger snatched out a knife and bent over the man to deal a death-blow; but ber band was caught by the detective, and her pur- pose checked. : ‘¢ You do not want his blood on your bands,” said Scott. ‘‘ Let the law dispose of him.” ‘“T have a revelation to make,” said the ragged stranger who bad sworn out a warrant for the man of many names and many crimes, “I would jike to ask this r wretch a question. What became of the y of Prince Royal, the gambler?” : “1 do not know.” ; ‘Well, J know!” asserted the ragged man, *“ [ saw you shoot Prince Royal, and the warrant which I swore out charged you with his murder instead of x nee Royal rests in the qrave above which you Newman’s name!” the murder of George Newman, : | | “To F Bis. After a moment’s pause, the old man con | tinued. ~ ‘¢ You do not understand this, do you? Well, 1 will explain. Isaw you shoot Prince Royal, and I followed you clean to Cinnabar, Then I resolved to go back and bring in the bedy as evidence against you. I went back, but the vultures had been at work ahead of me, and the gaibler’s face was mutilated beyond recogni- tion, A thought struck me, ¢ stripped the body of its clothing and then attired it in the garments of George Newman, whom you be- lieved you had also sbot dead, but whose skull was not even fractured by your bullet. I placed the ring on the dead man’s finger, where it was found. Then, to keep the vultures from further work, I watched till the searchers came and dis- covered the body. My scheme worked. It was thought George Newman was dead, but he still lived—and Iam he !” The old hat was thrown aside, and the false white beard removed. And in truth George Newman, alive and well, stood before the aston- ished crowd! . 4 1 rE ‘ Pretty Pat received his just due, from the limb of a tree. With the exception of the chief : rascal of the lot, Big Mat and the. other men a found in the effice when the crowd broke in, : were escorted to the border of the town and 4 told to‘ git.” They lost no time in doing so. It would be folly to attempt to describe the — scene which took place when Grace and her Newman, He was greeted as one risen from the 4 dead, and the citizens of Cinnabar left them 4 alone with their great joy. a It wasa day of great excitement in the town, Pi and the bars did a rushing business. : Ié was with the greatest difficulty, however, that the enraged citizens were prevented fronr serving the man they had known as “ Martin Wynder ” in the same manner as they had Pretty Pat. Marshal Bruce was still alive, but it was thought he could not survive long. In this, ag however, they were mistaken, for, despite the Ae seriousness of the wound, a strong constitution brought the man through and he lived to do va many a good service in the cause of justice. me Among those whom the citizens of Cinnabar delighted to honor were the two cowboys, Chris and Rube. Indeed, so much attention was paid them that the bow-legged cattleman said to bis young pard: “It’s gittin’ too hot fer comfut, Chris, Ther jints in my arm are nigh worn out fer ther han’ shakin’s I hev got, an’ ef this thing keepson, Il be hevin’ er drink inter me. Thet won’tdo,fer ye know w’en 1 gits started thar hain’t secha thing as stoppin’.” “ Then I think it isabout time we bade Cinna- bar farewell.” < ae Me too.” * i They quietly said good-by to all their friends, ae and, despite all objections, rode away. Gradnally Mr, Newman lost his prejudice — agains; Ford Webster, and the young man final- ly won Grace, and a worthy husband he made the admirable and courageous girl. ta Spotter Scott carried his prisoner to the scene — of his crime, The man was tried, found guilty and sentenced to be hanged. — i During the trial a woman dressed in bla ck and closely vailed attracted some attention by sitting as close to the prisoner as possib watching him intently, but it was little dr she constantly grasped a loaded revoh which she intended to end the villain’s ; should be acquitted.” With theend of the trial she disapp what became of Hester Doyle itis i
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BE ADLE’S« H ALF- PDIME«]_ IBRARY. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, Deadwood Dick Novels. "1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Detiance; or, Double Daggers. SEE Mahaveed Dick in tinGee ad woo ek in « Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; or, The Phantom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omaha Oll, ibTjPeadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity ¢ ine, the Heroine ion pend weed picks ot herd or, Corduroy Charlie. eniwoo ck In Leadville. ass pasa weed ae og fee; or, The Double Cross Sign. endwoo ck as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick’a Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. 188 Deadwood Dick’s Home Kase; or, Blonds Bill. 149 Deadwood Dick’s Rig Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 156 Deadwood Dick ot Deadwood or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. ave py ated teen yee oh ee ean Jane’s Adventure, * Deadwoo ek’a Dead Deal. 221 Deadwood Dick’s Death-Pilant. 282 Gold-Dust Dick, A Romance of Roughs and Tougha, +4 penanees a 4 ag ald Spirit of Swamp Lake. ck’s Den rail. $ B09 Deadwood Dick’« Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. Deadwood Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats Deadwood Dick’s Ducats; or, Days in the Diggings. tryed beh A aad or, The Terrible Vendetta, end woo ck’s Claim. 405 Deadwood Diek in Deaa City. A410 Dendwood Dick’s Diamonds. Deadwood Dick in New Yorks or, A “Cute Case.” Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. y ied hey Shaina ee oe a 7 Crimson Crescent Sign, end oO ek, Jr.’a, Deflance, 458 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s Full Hand. 459 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Big Round-Tp. 465 Deadwood Dick Jr.’s Racket at Claim 10, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’« Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. Siirsl ice Soest |, ek, Jdr., In Deadwood, Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Compact. 496 Deadwood Dick Jr.’s, Inheritance. 500 Deaawood Dick, Jris Diggings. 508 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Deliverance, Dendwood Dick dr.’s Protegee. Peadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Three. Dendwood Dick, Jr.’a, Danger Ducka, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Death Hunt. Dendwood Dick, Jr., in Texas. 544 Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wild Weat Vidocqe 549 Deadwooa Dick, Jr., on Mia Mettle. B54 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham, 561 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boston, 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadelphia, 572 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Chicage. 578 Deadwood Dick. Jr.. Afloat. 584 Deadwooe Dick. vr.. In Denver. 590 Deadwood Dick, Jra, Decree. 595 Deadwood Dick Jr. in Beelzebub’s Basin, 600 Deadwood Dick Jr., at Coney Island. 606 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’*s, Leadville Lay. 612 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Detroit. G18 Deadwood Dick. Jr. in Cincinuati. 624 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Nevada. 680 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in No Man’s Land, 686 Deadwood Dick, Jr., After the Queer. 642 Deadwood Dick Jr.. tn Buffalo. ool ep teheee | picks a remy mace oe Sooner endwoo ek, Jr.» Among the Smugglers. 660 Deadwood Diek, Jr.’s, Insurance Ouse 666 Dendwood Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines, 6723 Deadwood Dick, dr., tu Durango; or, “ Gathered In.” esa te oe ors Manan a or, Found a Fortune, ead woo cK, dr.’ Dazzic. 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s. Dollars. 695 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Danger Divide. 700 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Drop. TOA VDendwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. ng Deadwood Dick ot in San Francisco. ) r.’a 16 Deadwood Diek, Still Hunt. 22 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’« Dominoes, 28 4 Dick, Jr.’a Diseuiae, 84 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Deal, 40 Deadwood Dick Jr.’«, Deathwatch. T4147 Deadwood Dick Jr.’s, lboublet, 752 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathblow. a) THR Dendwood Dick, Jr.'s Desperate Strait, 764 Deadwood Diek, Jr.’a, Lone Hand. 70 Deadwood Dick, Ira Defent. 76 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Resurrection, Deadwood Dick. Jrs_ Dark Days. 8ST Deadwood Dick Jr., Defied. 92 Peadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Double Device. TZ9T Deadwood Dick, Jr’.«, Desperate Venture, ) 802 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Diamond Dice, A as Deadwood Dick Jr.’s; Royal Flush, 12 Deadwood Dick, JIr’a Head-off, 816 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Rival. 822 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Boom. 828 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ Scoop. 84 Dendwood Dick, Jr.'s, eet G 40 Deadwood Dick, dr’, Clutch, 45 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, High Horse. 52 Deadwood Dick Jr., at Devil's Gulch. 858 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Veath-Hole Hustle. » 68 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’« Bombshell. 70 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Mexico. 76 Deadwood Dick, Jr’a Decoy Duck. 882 Deadwood Dick, Jr. tn Silver Pocket, S91 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dead-Sure Game, S898 Dendwood Dick, Jr.'s, Double Drive. 904 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Trade-Mark, 910 Deadwood Dick, Jr,, at bei inh 9s 916 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’4 Double-Decker, 928 Deadwood Dick, Jr. at Dollarvilie. $4 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats, 0 Dendwood Dick, Jr.'s, Bp ohe-S. 946 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Drops 51 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Right Bower. bT Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Ten-Strike. 965"Deadwood Mick, Jr.’«, Gold-Dust. Deadwood Dick Jr.’a, Oath, Dick, Jr.’s, Death-Doem, ad Dick, Jr.’s, Best Card, of Dick, Jr., at Gold Dust. ood Dick, Jr.ts, Big Play. » Jr.y Branded. sadwood ID Jr.'s. Dutch Pard, wood Dick, Jr.’a, Big Four. BY ROBERT BR. INMAN, ck’s Double, Dandy Dick, Detective, BY WM. WEST WILDER, Cowboy Chris to the F Dnabor Chris the Man oft Caliber- Dandy Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. ae gonenud Heb —_ Mand; or, Idyl, the Girl Miner, osnebuc ob’s Reappearance; or, Photograph Phil, 121 Rosebud Kob’s ¢ hallenge; or, Cinnamon Chip. F 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee’s Surround 281 Denver Doll’« Victory; or, Skul! and Crossbones, 255 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Litile Bill’s Bonanza. 206 Denver Doll’s Drift; or, The Road Queen. 868 Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Life Lottery. 872. Yreka dim’s Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. , 885 Yreka Jim’s Joker}; or, The Rivals of Red Nese. 894 Yreka Jim of Yubsa Dam. 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game, : 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter 244 Slerra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret; or, A Sister’s Devotion, 248 Sierra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 2558 Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vista. 258 Sierra Sam’s Sevens or, The Stolen Bride. 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. 889 Kangaroo Kit’s Racket; or, The Pride of Played-Out, 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. 96 Watch-Eye, the Detective; or, Arabs and Angels, 11% Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective a ee 145 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. 226 The Arab Detective ; or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp. 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 825 Kelley, Mickey & Uo., the Detectives of Philadelphia, 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective, 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Nat Harry, the Base Ball Detective. 426 Sam Slabsides, the Beggar-Boy Detective. 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives. 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures, B2 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Lill; or, The Red Rifle Team 92 Canada Chet ¢ .or, Old Anaconda fu Sitting Bull’s Camp, 18 Jack Moyle the Young Speculator. 25 Bonanza Bill, Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 88 Boss Bob the King of Bootblacks, 41 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows, 177 Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scamps. 81 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or, Lady Lily’s Love, 86 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado: or, Rowdy Kate. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Boy Patrol: or. The Rival Heirs. 880 Little Quick-Shots or, Vhe Dead Face of Daggersville, 858 First-Class Fred, the Gent trom Gopher. 878 Nabob Ned; or, The Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance. 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher; or, A Son’s Vengeance. 486 Sealakin Sam, the Sparkler: or The Tribunal of Ten, 918 Kit Keith, t e Reyenue Spotter. : 922 Sol Sharpe, the New York Night-Hawk, 948 Old Hayseed Among Bunco Men, 1001 Banty, the Denver Bootblack, BY J. C. COWDRICK, 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. aaa Bread way ie ecm, of Clearing aStrange Case roadway y’s » cAlty.”’ 557 Broadway Billy’« Peath Racket. 579 Broadway Billy’s Surprise Party. 605 Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning, 628 Broadway Billy’s Dead Act; or, The League of Seven. 669 Rroadway Billy Abroad; or, The Bootblack in Frisco. ace nies way 5 Ale or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. roadway y In over. +4 peereny. ee, “ bot oe or, The River Rustlers. roadway y’s Brand, 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Clever Deal. tee b aoc Be ay Othe ALP or, The Gamin Detective, roadway y’s Business, 788 Broadway Billy’s Curious Case, Broadway Billy in Denver. Broadway Billy’s Bargain; or, The Three Detective, Broadway Biily, the Retriever Detective. Broadway Billy’« Shadow Chase. Billy’s Beagles; or, The Trio’s Quest. Billy’s Team; or, The Combine’s Big Pull. Billy’s Brigade; or, The Dead Alive, Billy’s Queer Bequest, mete Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway 800 Broadway 805 Broadway Broadway Billy Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway 844 Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway 868 Broadway Bluff. Billy Among Jersey Thugs. Billy’s Raid, Billy’« Big Boom, Billy’« Big Bulge. Buly’s #160,000 Snap. Billy’s Blinds or, The Bootblack Stowaway. Billy tn London. . Billy Shadows London Slums. S74 Broadway Billy’s French Game. 880 Broadway Billy and the Bomb-Throwers. 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Keys. 869 Shasta, the Gold King; or, For Seven Years Dead. 420 The Detective’ Apprentice; or, A Boy Without a Name, 424 Olbuta Jonny; or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar. 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout. 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude. 606 Redlight Ralph the Prince of the Road. 524 The Vegincer Detectives or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve 548 Mart, the Night Express Detective, 671 Alr-Line Luke the Young Engineer; or, The Double Case 592 The Boy Pinkerton; or, Running the Rascals Out. 615 Fighting Mar the Chief of Chafned Cyclone, 640 Bareback Beth, the Centaur of the Circle, Tynewrlter Tilly the Merchant’s Ward. 659 Moonlight Morgan the “‘ Pizenest ”’ Man of Ante Bar, S87 Battery Bob. the Dock Detective. 894 Arizona Dick’s Wipe-Out. 900 Jumping Jack’s Jubilee. 906 Safety Sam, the Cycle Sport. 912 Train Boy Trist’s Hot Hustle, 918 The Trump onde vig 4 924 Big Boots Bob, the Fire-Laddle. 980 Kuatler Ralph, the Boy Spotter. 985 The Ex-Newsboy Detective’s Chum. 941 The Bowling Green Detective’s Drop. 944 Cowboy Chartlie’« Double. 947 The Bowery W restler; or, The Butcher-Boy’s Backer. 958 Paddy’s Eramp Card; or, Silver Sallie, the Girl Sport, 960 The Broadway Sports or, Fiver Fred’s Clear Case. dhe! J Reward ; or, The Rival Reporters’ Sleek Scoop. ntam Billy, the Corker-Ferret. 978 Plucky Pat. the Street-Boy Detective. 989 Bieycle Bob’s Hot Scorch, 997 Scorcher Sam, the Detective on Wheels. 1004 Scorcher Sam’s Sweep-Stake s. 1009 Use Girl Cy clian’s Winning Hand. AY ARIZONA CY. ioe Vou Ret Bob from Cross Crick, 1088 You Ret Bob’« Circus, SS es SS SS Ss BY COL. PRENTISS INGRAHAM. 1046 Gold Plume, the Boy Bandit, or, Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider. 1042 wittle Grit, the Pony Exprers Rider. 1040 Ruffalo Kill’s Pony Patrol. 1018 Buffalo BUl« Texas Team. 1007 Buffalo Bill’s Sure-Shots, 1000 Buffalo ill’s Deeoy Boya,. 995 Buffalo Bill’s Drop; or, Dead-Shot Ned , the Kansas Kid. 98S Buffalo Bill's Lasso Throwers, 981 Buffalo Bill's Fighting Five. 975 Buffalo Bill's Kites nots. 968 Buffalo Bill's Kush Ride; or, Sure-Shot, the High-Flyer, 964 Buffalo BUPs Decoy ; or, The Arizona Crack Shot. 9558 Buffalo Bill’s BaseppeShase. 948 Buffalo Bill’s Snap-Shot ¢ or, Wild Kid’s Texan Tally 942 Buffalo Bills Tough Tussle, 986 Buffalo Bills Boy Mascot; or, Joe Jarvis’ Hold-up, 929 Buffalo Bills Crack-shot Pard. 650 Buffalo Bill’s Boy Pard; or, Butterfly Billy. 216 Bison Bill, the Prince ot the Reins. 222 Bison Bill's Clue; or. Grit, the Bravo Sport, BY BUFFALO BILL. 55 Deadly-Eye., the Unknown Scout; or, The Banded Brotherhood ‘68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Faney Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust, 1029 The Phantom Spy. 1088 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Nand. BY CAPT, ALFRED B, TAYLOR, U. 8. A. 191 Buffalo Billy, the Boy Ballwhacker. 194 Buffalo Bill’s Bet: or, The Gambler Guide. BY COL. PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 1087 The Artist Detective. 1084 The Gold Witch’s Shadower. 1081 The Texan Hustlers in Cuba. 1027 The Cowboy Raiders in Cuba 1025 The Flying \ ankee or, The Ocean Outcast 1028 The Cowboy Clan in Cu? a. 1016 The Boy Bugler in Cuba, 982 New York Nat’s Drop: or, Ex-Ferret Sykes’ Bold Game 926 New York Nat and the Traitor Ferret. : New York Nat’s in Colorado, New York Nat In Gold Nugget Camp. New York Nat’s Deadly Deal, New York Nat's Crook-Chase, New York Nat’« Trump Card. New York Nat and the Grave Ghouls. New York Nat’« Masked Mascot. New York Nat, the Gumin Detective. Dick Doom’a Kidnapper Knock-Out, Dick Doom’s Ten Strike. Dick Doom’s Flush Hand. Dick Doom’s Death-Grtp; or, The Detective by Destiny, Dick Doom’s Destiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror. Dick Doom; or, Ihe Sharps and Sharks of New York, Dick Doom in Boston; or, A Man of Many Masks, Dick Doom tn Chicago. Dick Doom in the Wild West. Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep; or, Five Links in a Clue, Dick Doom’s Death Clue. Dick Doom’s Diamond Deal. 819 Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot. 8 Dick Doom’s Shadow Hunt, Dick Doom’s Big Heul. Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Traii, Dashing Charlle’s Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive. 760 Dashing CharHe’*x Pawnce Pard, 766 Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer. 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 787 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive, 748 Buck Taylor's Boum or, The Red Riders ot the Rio Grande, ? Ana Fifty Othera. BY LIEUT. A. K,. SIMS. 589 Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Dead Set at Silver Olty. 622 Tom-Cat’s Triad; or, The Affuir at Tombstone, 681 Tom Cat’s Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective 688 Tom-Cat’s Triumph; or, Black Dan’s Great Combine. 546 Captain Cactus, the Sheetal Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike, 568 The Dandy of Dodge; or, Rustling for Millions, 576 The Silver Sport: or, Josh Peppermint’s Jubilee. 688'Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow 601 Happy Hana, the Dutch Videcq; or, Hot Timesat Round-Up. 611 Bildnd Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. ~ 646 Cowboy Gid, the Cattle-Range Detective. 657 Warbling William the Mountain Mountebank, 665 Jolly Jeremliahsy the Plains Detective. 676 Signal Sam, the Lookout Scout. 689 Billy, the Gypsy Spy:_or, The Mystery of Two Lives.’ > 699 Simple Sim, the Proneho Buster: or, For Big Stakes, |, 712 The Meameriat Sport: or, The Mystified Detective, 788 Toltee Tom, the Mad Prospector. 745 Kansas Jim the Cross-Cut Detective. 761 Marmaduke, the Mustanger Detective. 778 The Ruatler of Rolling Stone. 725 Lone Mand Jee the Committee oi One. 801 Kent Kirbys the High-Kicker from Killbuck, 882 The Doctor Dete etive in Texas, 872 Two Showmen lPetectives in Colorado. 987 The Texan Firebrand: or, Brazos Billy’s Snap.Shot, 96L The Tramp’s Trump-Trick. NEW ISSUES. 058 The Three Spotters’ Dead Mystery. By Warring, 1084 Mustang Merle’s Merciless Foe. By Maj. Scott, 1055 Red Raveu’s Redskin Ruse. By Col P- Ingraham 1056 Cowboy Chris in Cinnabar, By Wm. W. W ilder, 1057 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter. By Ed. b, Wheeler, 1058 Roderick, the Rover. By[T. J Flanagan- 1059 Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout.” By Texas Jace 1060 Marlo, the Renegade. By Col- Prentiss Ingraham, JUST ISSUED. 1048 The Street Spotters’ Welrd Hunt, By Waring, 1049 Queen Edna of the Panthers — By Wm. R, Eyster. 1050 The One-Armed Sport. By T.C Harbaugh. 1051 The Boy Hercules. By 0!) Coomes. 1052 Buffalo Billin Pisguise. By Cel. P. Ingraham. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, five: eonts per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents each. BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 92 William Street, New York.