Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 1107) (1900 11)
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5 oft nts KK Saane aa Pate Sa See “ ews - [——=_ecl lt Le te Ts wi A SANS ENTERED as Szeconp CLass MATTER AT THE New York, N. Y., Post Orrice. November, 1900 ol. XUV. lu N y Fae — No 1107 Published Every M. J. FVERS & CO., Publishers, | - (JAMES SULLIVAN, Proprietor), Month. 379 Pearl Street, New York. 50c. a Year. PRICE 5 CENTS. y FOXY FRED, THE KEENER. MT j= ; ‘ vil, NEUMANRy MARCUS H. WARING—“Sergeant Mark.” : : TM mT i ] HTT | i it MTT ed in Au | 4 l v “sy = —- — == il | Hi Hl qa i i I i | = ZB —aae~ = S—= = FRED WAS MYSTIFIED, DID SHE KNOW THE STRICKEN
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Bagging the Sandbagger Trio, BY MARCUS H. WARING, (“SERGEANT MARK,”) AUTHOR OF “THE THREE SPOTTERS,” ‘ THE THREE SPOTTERS’ DEAD MYSTERY,” ETC. CHAPTER I. STRUCK DOWN! Ir had been a criminal deed. One could easily fancy that the blow bad come from behind, as only cowards stiike, but, in any case, there lay the man, senseless, as a mute witness to the act. “‘ He never tumbled over, hisself,” commented the youth who kad bappened on the scene. ‘ His pockets are turned inside out, an’ that speaks for itself, He’s been robbed; that’s w’ot; robbed, after bein’ smashed over the head with a sand- bag or slung-shot, By crickey! but there’s some mighty mean skunks in New York!” Footsteps sounded, eed a woman came quick- ly toward the spot, ‘* What is this?” she demanded. ‘“ Et’s a man, mum,” the youth replied, prac- tically. “Ts he dead?” “Only fer the time bein’;mum. His pulse beats, an’ there’s a thumpin’ goin’ on under his vest, as ef a mason was drillin’ a hole though his left side.” ‘* Who is the poor wretch?” ‘* Dunno, by crickey !” “But, why is he here? What does all this mean? Don’t be so slow with your information, boy. Speak out!” “ Which same [ should be delighted fer ter do ef I could, but I ain’t got the means wherewith ter eloocidate. This gent is a stranger ter me, an’ I found him jest afore you come up, Et geems clear that he fell among thieves an’ got done up. Ef you war ter whisper sandbag, I guess you’d name the weapon; the motive, meb- be robbery. Or it may hev been a little revenge mixed in,” The woman said no more, and the last speaker continued to gaze at the fallen man, who was of about forty-five years, stout and broad of frame though not exactly corpulent, He was well- dressed, but the boy’s experienced eye readily detected that his garments were not of New York manufacture, The young observer was not as indifferent as his inactivity might seem to indicate, He had al- ready decided that his personal care would do no good, and was now waiting for a policeman to appear. Suddenly Foxy Fred became conscious that something was wrong with the woman, and he turned his gaze upon her, She was leaning against the wall, her face white and seemirgly horror-stricken. Fred was mystified. Did she know the stricken man? or did she know who bad done the deed? ‘* Be you sick, mum?” he asked, “Sick? Yes; sick at heart!” she answered, in a strange voice. ‘** That’s a queer sickness.” ‘*'Yes—and fatal.” She spoke so huskily, and her gaze gleamed so unnaturally in her pallid face that her compan- ion began to grow suspicious, “Do you know this gent?” he asked, wht Nol.“ y “Ti en I reckon it affects yer fer ter see a — spread out on his backbone, insense- “That is it,” she agreed. “Wal, mebbe they will bring him to, all right. Anyhow, 1’m goin’ ter stand by him an’ see that no more harm don’t come ter him, You see, I ain’t a gent of business, an’ I git time ter look inter things a bit.” ** Who are you?” ** Foxy Fred, the Keener.” * What?” ‘* Frederick Walsingham Mather is my baptis- mal appendix, but the minister who tried ter say ee at one jump, took the lockjaw an’ died of l, trems, t’s too long, the name is; an’ 1 cut it down ter Foxy Fred, The * Foxy’ part means that I’m cunnin’ an’ wise—or think J be, which is all the same,” ** Where do you live” ** On Christopher street;” and Fred added the number, “You may be wanted in this case,” a Foxy Fred, th Keener; een ts ey es oa I I I 399III9I0I9II0$9909Is$ 0900909909000 (I et (ssn ples sss See ‘were again heard and a man approached, Foxy Fred, the Keener. “* Who by 9”? Before the woman could answer, gg e was a quaint-looking person, He was but a trifle over five feet in height, and had shoulders the breadth of which would have done credit to a six-footer. A broad, squat figure was his, and an unusually large head was niade larger in ap- pearance by a bushy white beard. He looked clean, but everything about him gave evidence of the fact that he cared but little for personal looks. He came up rapidly. ‘* What's this?—what’s this?’ he demanded, in short, sharp utterances, ‘*Tt’s a man that’s been downed by piratical critters, ef signs are reliable,” Fred explained, ‘‘ He ain’t ter blame fer laying down ter rest; ’most any one would do it ef banged over the cocoanut with a sandbag.” ‘‘Sandbag? Sandbag? Atrocious!” declared the short man, ‘‘ Who did it?” ** Dunno!” ** Atrocious, atrocious!” The new-comer bad brought out a bottle, and was holding it to the fallen man’s nostrils, “Be youa doctor?” Foxy Fred asked, doubt- fully.” sey am,” “Then you're jest the pill we waat. This fel- ler badn’t ought ter lay byer all night.” ** He is fast recovering, and this potent agent will hasten the work, See! his muscles quiver; he moves! He willsoon be— Ah!” The victim of the assault opened his eyes, ‘** Becalm,” urged the self-styled doctor, ‘* The vital currents of life flow anew in your arteries, and complete recuperation advances apace. Lost feel the exhilarating compound doing its work?” ‘*Gammon!” exclaimed Fred; ‘that ain’t the way ter talk ter a slung-shotted man, Them big words would tangle a Coagressman’s idees, Hi! mister, how be ye?” He assumed a hearty manner and took his turn at questioning, but the unknown first rose to a sitting position and then looked at them stupidly. “* Got a bad lick, didn’t ye?” Fred proceeded. “New York; I want to go w New York,” muttered the unknown, ia a monotonous tone, ‘*-You’d done better ter kept away from New York, I’m thinkin’, Who lambasted yer?” ‘New York, New York,” dully reiterated the victim. ‘¢ Peller-citizens, the feller is knocked out,” Fred announced, ‘ The blow scattered his wits, an’ his thinker is all broke up. Guess he’s got a fractur’ o’ the skull, or reconstruction o’ the Lrain,” ‘* He must be seen to, at once,” declared the short man. ‘‘Give me a hand, boy, an’ we'll take him to my office, which is in the next house.” ‘*T reckon the perleece are the ones fer this job,” began Fred, but the woman interrupted: ‘The doctor is right. The police are very rough at tbe best, and should be avoided, Take him in, doctor, and I will pay all expenses,” “Pay? Pay?’ echoed the doctor, ‘I’m not in need of money; rarely take it, Like to doa good job, Lift on him, boy; that’s it. He's weak on the legs, but the suspeaded currents will soon be flowing. That’s it; bold him tight. Here we are!” Foxy Fred had yielded when the woman joined in with the doctor, and was now doing his best to help. His willingness to do this was increased by the fact that he saw a sign on the door which proclaimed that ‘J, Mc- Nabb” was a “ Physician and Surgeon.” Mr. MeNabb did not fill one’s ideal of a doctor, but it seemed he was all right, after all, The victim of the assault was duly conducted to the so-called office, which showed little differ- ence from an ordinary room, however, As the front door was closed a policeman came march- ing slowly dawn the street, but he was too late to take part in the affair, Doctor McNabb produced a supply of drugs, and, also, examined the unknown’s head. “His skull is not fractured,” was the final an- nouncement, ‘* Whether there is any concus- sion I am not able to say, but, plainly, be is badly hurt. There is no intelligence in bis gaze, and nocoherence in his mind.” ‘* A sandbag plays hobbs with them things,” Foxy Fred agreed, ‘* Say, mister, take a brace, will yer? -Let us know w’ot yourun ag’in.” * Onto New York!” muttered the victim. ** Jes’ so, by mighty! New York is a boss place ef you don’t run afoulo’ thieves, Mister, w’ot’s yer name?” “New York; I want to go to New York,” \ The speaker regarded them fixedly, but bi gaze wasa stupid gaze, and no intelligence was back of it, ‘‘ We might as well address the Spbivx,” de- clared McNabb, with a sigh, ‘‘T dunno who them be, but this feller ain’t up ter snuff, so ter speak, W’ot’s his chances?’ ‘No one can say. He may be all right in the morning; or be may have brain fever; or be may be a permanent idiot,” “By crickey! that ain’t encouragin’. An ijjit never could even tell his name, ef be was more ijjiotic than some folks s’posed ter be sen- sible. Sech bein’ the case et’s our duty ter in- vestigate an’ see ef we kin learn bis name an’ other pertic’lers. I’ appoint F. W. Mather a committee of investigation.” And forthwith Fred began to search the un- known’s pockets, He was not immediately suc- cessful. The coat yielded nothing, and it was not until the inside pocket of the vest was reach- ed that any discoveries followed, From there, however, he brought out two papers. One was an envelope bearing the New York post-mark of a month before, and addressed to ‘‘ C. E, Jordan, Poland, Ohio.” ‘‘Here we hev his nibsey’s handle,” quoth Fred. ‘ Now fer the next one.” The “‘next one” was a half-sheet of note pa- r, and contained a part of a letter. Whoever ad torn it from the rest of thesheet had left ad- dress and signature bebind; it began and ended abruptly. The first lines were as follows: ‘___what this meant to me I can never make lain. Through long years of toil and wandering I 1ad always hoped that, some time, I would see hap- pier days, but years came and went and brought no relief. Finally, the letter came from New York. How that changed everything! Howit setmy blood to leaping! How happy I was! “TI pause at this point to wconder— and a sickening dread goes with the feeling as I wg ei Is this letter sincere? Has the man in New York promised in ood faith? Plainly. his is no idle pledge. Iam so ittle known that no one ever would git _ name, my story and my address, and write thus. The let- ter means something. “‘ Hither it is the kind act of a friend, as it claims to be, or ’tis the snare of an enemy. Which? “I feur you are growing tired of this long letter. but I felt that I must tell you all my hopes. You usec to wonder at my fitful moods ia the past. You will now understand why I was mocdy. To-morrow I start for New York, andI go with an eagerness which no words ‘can describe. Pray for me, old era re pray that I may succeed in my great under- taking. ‘In a few hours I leave Fere, and I go with this for my watchward: Ox to New York! As Foxy Fred read the last words aloud the victim of the assault suddenly raised his droop- ing head, a look of faint intelligence appeared in his face, and he exclaimed: **On to New York!” “Poor feller!” commented Fred. ‘His body is in New York, but bis mind is—where?” He read the remainder of the letter, but it wae not importatt. It referred to mill-property which, it seemed, the writer and his friend owned in common, but no name of person or place oc- curred therein. ‘* A perfect Sahara,” obsered McNabb, **T don’t know her,” Fred answered, ‘‘ but I do wish this dockyment told more. Where’s the rest o’ the letter? The envelope don’t belong to et: *tain’t the same writin’, We kin set et down thet the envelope was to this man, an’ this be- headed letter from him. He’s come ter our city on a great work an’ fell among thieves, We must help him, But how kin we do it?” CHAPTER II. THE FIRST CLEW, Doctor McNasp readily replied: * Write to Poland, Obio, That will bring his friends on here, or we will get directions as to what we shall do,” “That won’t ketch the sandbaggers, an’ [ guess ]’ll waltz over ter the perleece-station an’ put them on the track, right off.” “Tt is not likely they will do anything. By that I mean they’re not likely to find the sand- baggers, They did their work and disappeared, and, in order to get trace of them, we must learn why this Mr, Jordan, if that’s bis name, came to New York, and whom he came to meet,” “That is right, that’s the only proper way.” All this while the woman companion of the men bad been standing in silence, She saw and heard all; in fact, she seemed to bea singularly interested; but she had seen fit to be silent until she abruptly spoke the last words recorded.
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‘Dunno about that,” returned Foxy Fred, dubiously. ‘The perleece wouldn’t favor so much delay, anyhow,” “*It will make their work the easier, by put- ting the guilty persons off their guards,” ‘*True, very true,” ‘*Ladies an’ gents, I don’t see et that way, but the majority rules, You kin do as you say, but I hope no harm, won’t come of it. Them’s »my views.” Fred still spoke doubtfully, and there seemed good reason why he should look upon the plan with disfavor. He knew, if the others did not, that, when a crime) was committed, the police ought to have immediate notice of the fact, and if he had not been so much younger than his associates, he would not have given in so readily, ‘*“We must get this man to bed,” remarked Doctor McNabb, ‘I want to give him a sleep- ing potion, and let him get rest. Poor fellow! he needs all the rest possible, to build him up again. Atrocious! atrocious!” As he spoke he began fumbling at Jordan’s coat, to removeit, when an object dropped therefrom to the floor. All looked, end they saw something which Fred hastened to pick up. “A ‘charm’ off of a watch-chain!” he an- nounced, ‘‘Crickey! but Mister Man has a funny place fer carryin’ it. Yes, an’ I don’t see ez he ever had a watch.” The last comment was made after he had looked in vain for evidence at Jordan’s pockets and button-boles; no sign of wear was to be found there. ‘* The charm is not his,” said McNabb, **Sartain not; but it does belong ter one 0’ the sluggers, ere’s two broken links o’ the chain hangin’ on, an’ the last one-has a bit o’ wool in its broken claw. The thing ketched on ter Jordan, an’ it’s been a-hangin’ there, ever sence, Yes; it come from the sandbaggers, an’ we now hev aslight clew ter them who did the job, b’ mighty!” He went to the light, “ By crickey!” he added, ‘‘ef we kin strike one end o’ the string we ought ter run it through, with this!” *“* Why?” asked McNabb, ‘This charm is a corker; don’t b’lieve there’s many like it in town. There’sa kind o’ picture set in a frame o’ plain gold, an’ it shows a race- track, ‘There’s the crowd at one side, dimly visible; an’ a hoss goin’ like mad with a jockey on bis back; an’ the hoss’s eye is a diamond stone, b’jinks!” Fred heard a sound asif some one had drawn a deep, quivering breath, and looked around to ses who it was, but nobody claimed to be the sigher. His gaze dwelt suspiciously on the Jady, who looked pale and wretched, and stood with nervously-clasped hands, but she said nothing, and the doctor commented: ‘* Odd, odd, by Jove!” ‘*Et’s a primer of no small value, Doc. The feller who wore this bad sportin’ blood in him, the picture shows that, He was well heeled, financially, too, the diamonds tells that /” “ True,” “* Wal, that’s the primer by which I’m goin’ ter bunt him down.” “Your? Tbe word came suddenly, sharply from the lady’s lips. Those lips remained unclosed as sbe regarded Fred eagerly, ‘Me, mum!” “Will you find him?—will you search for him?” es “‘Sure! Et seems ter interest ye, mum,” Fred made the remark inquisitively, and she appeared suddenly to realize that fai was be- traying feelings not in harmony with the state of affairs, Her manner became calm and busi- ness-like, ‘Of course I am interested, as every bonest person should be. Mr, Jordan, if that is bis name, came to New York on some errand we may consider peaceable and worthy, lacking proof to the contrary; but he has been brutally used. His wrongs should be righted.” ‘Fact, by crickey!” “Tf you will bunt down the assailants. will give you a hundred dollars.” Frederick W. Mather gazed at the speaker in bewilderment. This was more money than be ever had handled, and the idea of possessing it dazzled bim. ** Honest Injun?” he finally inquired. ““T mean it, certainly.” “Say, w’ot’s your name an’ address?” te | ain Mrs. Maria Redburn, of No, — Clinton “Tl book it!” 1) 2 > Foxy Fred, the Keener. He was about to write it down in a note-book, but Mrs, Redburn promptly stopped him, **Don’t do it! If you investigate among dan- gerous men you want nothing about you which will in any way betray your identity, plans or friends. Surely, you can remember my name and address?” “T kin, with a hundred ‘cases’ back of it!” Fred grimly declared, “Go on, then, and rely upon me to keep my word. I think I will make a slight stay in the city, though I had intended to go away, and see the result. I really feel an interest in this matter,” This was said with the air of one who forces a certain feeling, but Fred was not wholly pre- pared to admit that she was assuming interest. Eitber she had been deeply disturbed by causes not perceptible on the surface, or she was an un- usually emotional woman. There was not much more to do in the house, Jordan was put to bed and given some drug by McNabb, The latter really showed skill as a nurse, and Fred began to believe he might be a good doctor, if he did not look it. Every one but the boy seemed to have for- gotten the watch-charm, and he hung to it closely, He and Mrs, Redburn left the house. ** You shall hear from me ag’in, mum,” the youth promised. ‘* I’m Foxy Fred, the Keener —so called because I never get left, an’ I’m bound ter win thet hundred. You'll find me a Keener, sure!” Expressing no opinion on this subject, sbe said a few more words and started away, but, as she saw two men advancing, asked Fred to walk with her to the more traveled street, and this he did. The two men appeared to take no notice of them, and at the corner they separated, and the Keener retraced bis steps. When he did so he saw that the two men were bent over, and, it seemed, searching for some- thing on the pavement. “*Crickey!” he exclaimed, “that’s the very spot where Jordan was downed!” This fact impressed him so strongly that he was about to dodge into a doorway, to watch unobserved, when he noticed that he was already seen; so he put on a boid and innocent face and kept on his way, aed the men, he accosted them care- essly : ‘*Hev ye dropped a thousand-dollar green- back, gents? If So, Vl find et fer half.” **Do you live near here, boy? one of them “*'Wal, I don’t live nowhar else,” ‘* Have you seen anybody pick anything up here?” ** Can’t remember no sech case.” “Git down on yer marrers an’ look, an’ I'll pay ve for it.” ** Look fer w’ot?” “What's that ter you?” ‘*Ets a good deal, by crickey! How kinI find w’ot is wanted, ef I don't know w’ot ’tis?” “That’s a fact. Wal, it’s an ornament the size of your thumb-nail, with a gold frame an’ a dark picture in it.” ‘* Likeness of your best gal?” ** Don’t be funny! Flop down on yer shanks an’ look.” “Tm with yer, boss.” Down Fred got, and he began to look as criti- eally as if he was not sure the *‘ ornament” was even then in bis own pocket. But he was bound to keep in the swim, and solve the question: Who were these men, and what did they know about the charm? CHAPTER III, THE HEAD VILLAIN. ‘* MIGHTY queer where that thing has gone!” declared one of the nen, ‘* We'll find it, yet,” the comrade replied. ** Ain’t we looked everywhere?” ‘“*Pshaw! you’re too easy discouraged, Eph. As fer me, I'll turn up the pavin’-stones afore I ive up. **That’s all right, but the thing ain’t uncer them, , I reckon the same parties took it away who took—” ‘Cheese it! Very likely be walked away him- self, As fer what we're after, it may hev struck a stone an’ bounded a rod away. Don’t make any talk before this kid. He looks sharp,” early all of this conversation bad been in a low voice, but the hearing of the *‘ kid” was sufficiently acute to take it all in. He did this very innocently, moving around on his knees and peering into niches between the paving- stones. 3 Foxy Fred, however, was sure he was right in the company of men who bad aided to sandbag | Jordan, Of tbis fact they had themselves fur- nished proof, and no more was needed, Dan- gerous companions they were, too; men who would commit an assault like that which had gone before would do anything to subdue a Pee son caught spying upon them—to si/ence him | forever, L Despite this the ‘*‘ Keener ” never wavered in bis purpose. He knew he was ou the threshold of the solution of the mystery. The question was, could he arrive at the solution when danger marked every step of the way? ; The search was kept up until the policeman | came around on bis beat, when the men ceased | operations and one of them made a pretense of easing a shoe-pinched foot. The patrolman was on, so they were able to resume operations as soon as he was out of sight. As they still looked in vain, ‘“‘ Eph” grew . angry. : ; | * Darn the luck!” he exclaimed. ‘I tell you, Chub, the confounded thing ain’t here!” | in good humor and did not order them to move Chub sat still and looked solemn. “You may be right,” he admitted. ‘* Wal, then w’ot’s the use o’ tumblin’ ‘round here on our shanks?” ‘*The boss would be mad ef we went back without it,” “Darn! w’ot should he keer about a little trinket like that?” ‘¢ Epb, you’re a slow-witted cuss! Didn’t he tell us, plain, tbat he didn’t keer fer the value o’ the thing, but didn’t want ter leave it layin’ around?” ‘** He’s too blamed afraid o’ the cops!” ** Hush!” Mr. Chub seemed to labor under the belief | that his own voice was much lower than Epb’s, but though both had tried to talk in a key which | would make their remarks inaudible to their | assistant, the Keener bad overheard everything. He saw, too, that they were only the tools of a certain bead villain, and he became ambitious to learn who tbat person was, No doubt Chub and Epb had taken part in the assault on the sandbagged man, but the brains of the plot were still invisible. Fred wanted tosee the man who carried them. ‘We may as well give this up,” Chub finally remarked, in a louder voice. ‘It don’t matter much, fer I don’t s’pose it was worth over a dollar, anyhow. Boy, how much do you want fer your trouble?” * Ob! I ain’t hard ter deal witb,” the Keener replied, glibly. ‘‘ I ruther like ter travel on my kneecaps, anyhow; et’s amocsin’. You might give me a quarter, ef agreeable.” ** Here it is. Now, toddle along.” **T toddle.” All three were by that time on their : feet. Fred gave no evidence that he regarded the matter as more than an every-day affair, and spoke nonchalantly. He now added, *‘ Goods night, gents!” and walked away with his handg in bis pockets, Innocent enough he seemed, but he bad no ine tention of letting the matter drop there. He was in possession of a clew, and if he let the chance slide, be might never recover it, He in- tended to follow the men, In thus deciding he was not ignorant of the fact that he would run great risk, Chub and Eph were “toughs” of tke lowest order of intellect and highest order of viciousness—typical sandbaggers, Once let them suspect him and his chances would be as precarious as Jordan’s had been in their bands, Despite this he intended to follow them, and when he reached the corner of the block he first took a sly glance over bis shoulder, and then, seeing them just moving on, started intoa run and dashed around tbe block like a Guttenburg winner, This waa done to cut them off, and he was suc- cessful, He reached the corner at the west end just as they turned down the next street. Here he made an effort to disguise himself somewhat by turning uphis collar and jamming his hat well down on his head, and then he fell behind them and followed on. Chub and Eph walked with a business-like air, but the pursuit was not long. Four blocks away a man was waiting on a oorner, and they paused and entered into conversation with him, The Keener would have given a good deal to hear tbat conversation, but he did the next best thing. Lurking in a dark doorway he looked closely at the third man, He was not off the same piece with Chub and Eph. They were roughly fates and shaggy of hair and beard, while he was faultlessly a —from his own point of view. He bad expen.
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4 Foxy Fred, the Keener. sive clothes, patent-leather shoes, a tall bat and set here on the dour-step an’ see Perce go in, it a flowing red necktie, the latter being matched by a red rose in the adjacent button-hole. ‘¢ A man about town!” Fred muttered. “* Looks asef he might bestuck on cards an’ the race- course, Jest the kind of a duck ter buy a watch- charm like one I know of. F, W. Mather, Pll bet a fresh lobster you’re on the track, already. But who is his Nibsey?” The man thus flippantly referred to seemed to listen to the report of bis friends with dissatis- faction, but be did not prolong the interview, He handed overa sumof money to Chub and Eph, and then left them. This pleased the Keener, He wanted to follow the sport, and this would not be safe with Chub and Epharound. They went one way, and Fred | fell in behind their master as the latter went the other, No great task was before the pursuer, The supposed sport went only a few blocks, and thea paused in front of a modeést-looking house, open- éd the door with a key and went in, Fred found himself on the wrong side, with no one at hand of whom he could inquire who the stranger was, The Keener lingered around the place for half an hour, and then decided that be was not likely to make more discoveries, The hour was late, and the gentleman with the red necktie proba- ot Bag gone to bed like a good citizen, e was about tomove away when a woman came along the street, She was one who seemed to have seen the rough side of life. Her apparel had that ill-fitting, slovenly habit of one who, from some cause or other, is low down in tbe world, and without ambition to rise. Fred judged from ber form and carriage that she was not yet old, but a thick vail so covered her face that he could not tell positively whetber she was sixteen or sixty. Not being aware that he bad any business with this run-down speci- men be would have allowed her to pass without giving her a serious thought, but she first hesi- tated and then came to a stop. **Do you live near here, boy?’ she asked, in a low, thick voice. ‘* Sure!” Fred replied, “Then you know the folks?” ‘*Some of them,” ** Do you know a man who lives in there?” and she pointed a the very house where the sport had gone. “What name, mum?” ** Percy Bertbrong.” * Deseribe bim!” ‘*He is about thirty years old, and tall and well formed; always dresses well, being some- what fond of display. Often he wears a red necktie!” The last words were added after a pause, It completed a description which, though not posi- tive, applied so well to the man he had followed that the Keener did not doubt that it was the same one, **Reckon I know him slightly,” he agreed. ** Friend o’ yours?” ** Who knows?” “Wal, you ought ter.” “There are more things in heaven and earth » than are dreamed of in our simple philosophy.” ‘speckled trout after a “That sounds stately an’ good, like music from a big church organ, but et don’t enlighten me mucb, W’ot’s your name, mum?” ‘* Tt don’t matter; names are but idle breath, Yet, call me Meg Mason,” CHAPTER IV, A DOUBLE ENCOUNTER. Foxy FrEeD was already interested in the young woman, for be believed she was one who could tell him much about Percy Berthrong, if she would, He even went so far with bis theorizing as to imagine that she was one who had. once been a favorite with Percy, and had been cast off. ‘Meg Mason,” he repeated, ‘‘ That name is short an’ sweet. Et ain’t so fancy as bisn, though.” ‘** It fits me,” ** What about Percy@”’ The Keener wished his companion to tell something, but she saw fit to take his inquiry in a different way. ** Yes, what about him?’ Meg returned, ‘‘ Have you seen bim to night?” ** Jest went iv.” e “Where had he been.” “ Don’t know,” ** Why did you follow him?” ‘*Foller him? Whosaid I did anything of the kind?” **T inferred as mucb,” -.“* Wal, don’t you jump ata conclusion like a y, mum? Jest cause I Ta es Die Wee Re Ee. Oe a SE ee ee ee ea eS. ae ee — —) —— aa $<. ain’t no sign I know where he’s been. don’t. Guess, though, he’d been out fer a waltz, fer ex- ae Say, w’ot is bis business callin’, any- ow?” ; “T don’t know; I wish I did. I know too little about him.” ‘** He ain’t used ye well, Eh?” **] bave nothing to say, and I am going, now,” } Meg gathered ber ill-fitting garments closer | around her and turned away, ‘“*Say, wait!” the Keener urged. ‘I want | ter talk with you, fer I reckon we may be mu- | tually useful ter each other, Give a feller a | show! I’m frank enovgh ter say that I want ter git primers on Perce, an’ I think you’re the hair- pin ter help me,” **1 know nothing!” Speaking curtly she turned and walked away, and Fred found himself utterly left out in the cold, He was reluctant to lose any chance to get more light on the subject, for the hun- dred dollars’ reward did not grow any smaller in imagination as he progressed, Probably Meg | Mason knew nothing about the case in which C. E. Jordan had figured, bnt sbe did know more about Berthrong than the boy did. Obeying an impulse, he walked hurriedly to her side. “Say, mum, ef you-don’t want ter say how you knew Perce, won’t you tell me jest the kind | ofta hairpin he is, as a man?” _ She stopped short and looked at him stead- Mire 1 tell you this, will you promise not to follow me?” “ Yes,” ** And will you stand right here and let me go away ¢—stand here until I pass yonder cor- ner? **T will, that.” ‘‘Then ['ll tell you the kind of a man Perey Berthrong seems to be to one who knows him well.” Pausing for a moment és if her strength was not equal to the case, unless reinforced, she added: ‘As I know him, he is a villain. He has plenty of money. How he gets it I don’t say. He may havea fortune back of him, but I be- lieve he makes all as he goes along—how, I don’t say. He is polite and pleasant when be wishes, but that’s all the worse for his victims. He is cunning, too; so cunning that those who would work against him must beware or their work will bring them ruin or death!” Hardly had the last word passed her lips be- fore she wheeled and hastened away. The Keener remained ; azing after her blank- ly. It was hard to remain idle and lose such a good chance to learn more of her, but his promise was made and be would not break if, “She don’t recommend Perce over-bigh,” | Fred soliloquized. ‘ Reg’lar crook, he must be, ef I take her word, Cunnin’, too; ishe? Wal, that doit surprise me so much, fer a sport about town does git ter be about as sharp as they make ’em, Cunnin’ or not, I intend ter try my luck on bim.” As there did not seem to be much more to do, | that night, the Keener starte! for home, where he arrived in good condition, He slept until well into the morning, rose and had breakfast, and then left the bouse. ‘Guess I'll go around ter Doc McNabb’s an’ see Jordan,” be decided, ‘ Ef he’s got bis pa- tient back inter his wits et will save me some trouble in my business,” The Keener, however, had gone but half-way to McNabb’s when he encountered some one who aceosted him. ‘* Say, do you live near here?” It was a question which Fred bad heard be- fore in the last twenty-four hours, and it bad rown somewhat monotonous. He stopped and ooked severely at the speaker. He saw a boy of delicate frame and good clothes—two facts which did not appeal to the Keener’s good-humor. He possessed neither, and had no small measure of contempt for those thus equipped, “Sir,” he replied, with ponderous dignity, ‘1 do live nigh bere, W’ot of it?” ‘** Did you see the man assaulted, last night?” Fred’s haughty air died away. ** Wot do you know about any sech sarcum- stance?” he demanded, more pleasantly, ‘*T heard them talking about it.” * Who?” ‘¢ The sport and the other man,” **Do you know that gang, sonny?” **T hope I don’t know them. No; Tonly know of them; Percy Bertbrong, and the rest.’ ** Wot talk did you bear?” ‘He lost a watch-charm over near here, and I ' 4 thought I might find itif Icameover, I was going to give it toa policeman.” ‘*Oh! you were, eh? Why?” ** Because I don’t like the gang. Understand me, I’m not acquainted with them, but I know of their work. I don’t mean that it’s a regular ‘gang,’ as city gangs go. I don’t think Percy Berthrong bas any regular confederate, but when he needs help, he gets men Jike Chub and Eph to help him out, Lused to live right where 1 could see all these things, though I’ve moved: away, now, and I suppose there are but few persons who know so much of Berthroag’s af- fairs as I do.” **Say, w’ot’s your name?” ** Chester Lynn.” ‘Be youa feller that rolls in gold an’ fine linen, or be you one who has time fer fun?” ** What do vou mean?” ‘That ef you are willin’, an’ kin satisfy me you are all right, I might take you as a palina fight ag’inst Perce—ef you know as much as you say.” * Do that, and I'll work mantully?’ cried Chester, with zeal. **Manfolly! Hum’!” Frederick Walsingham Mather looked doubt- fully at the delicate figure before him, Its owner did not look as if be could stand the hard knocks of a campaign against ‘Bertbrong, though, the Keener mentally observed, ‘*he robably would be considered a big feller up urray Hill way.” Still, Chester bad a bright face, and an air which told of self-reliance, and this fact made due impression. ‘* Be you used ter knockin’ around an’ rough- in’ it?” ‘*Dye seen my share,” young Lynn coolly re- lied. pn Wal, I guess we kin strike up a bargain, so I’ll meet you here half an hour later an’ see w’ot we kin do, Jest bang around here until I get back, will yer?’ ‘*- Yes,” Chester agreed, pes Aha S “All rigbt; I’m (ff on a bit o° business, but I'll scon be back. Don’t leave until I come.” The Keener hastened away, but, as he went, his faith in young Lynn began to waver. The smaller boy impressed him as being one who was to be trusted, but would he te any use against Berthrong? Fred began to fear he had over-estimated the importance of what he claimed to know, ‘I’m in fer it, though,” was the decision, ‘an’ I'll jest see wot Ches is good fer,” It was not a long walk to Doctor McNabb’s, and be was soon in the presence of that gentle- map. “How is C. E, Jordan?” the Keener de- manded, . ‘¢ A sick man, a sick man,” McNabb answered. “ft looks now as if brain fever would come, His temperature is far above the normal, and all things point to such an illness,” * Ain’t he got bis senses back?” ‘*No, He is now in a condition practically one of unconsciousness,” Fred shook bis head. It seemed he was not to have Jordan’s help in the campaign ahead of him, and must go on blindly. It was annoying, but he did not waver in bis purpose. He was bound to avenge the assault and clear up the mystery, for he felt sure there was a strange and tragic story back of it all, with Percy Ber- throng as the villain of the drama, CHAPTER V. JHE KEENER TRACKS HIS PREY, WueEn the Keener returned to the place of meeting he found Chester Lynn waiting for bir, and he proceeded to question that youth further. The result was not satisfactory, for Chester did not seem so well informed as Fred had hoped, but he did know more of Percy Berthrong than the questioner did, so the latter was not disposed to break off the alliance. Starting on, finally, they were nearing tho sport’s residence when that gentleman, bin.<self, suddenly appeared to view. He was walking jauntily along ‘the street, swinging a fancy cane, and seemed to be in great good bhunor with himself, ‘‘Fall in!” directed the Keener, ‘‘ Keep on bis track, but appear as innocent as a shy young gazelle. Don’t let him see yer lookin’ at im.” There really was no danger of discovery, for Berthrong did not once look around, but they used due caution and did themselves credit as secret followers. Berthrong wentstraight to Broad way and took a surface car bound nortb, and the boys jumped a eS 1 a
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Foxy Fred, the Keener. 5 upon the car next behind it and continued the pursuit. When the sport alighted he at once entered a store. ** Tailor’s shop!” quoth the Keener, in disgust. ‘That don’t look promisin’. I don’t know of nothing less interestin’ ter us than how Perce’s pants set.” “Still we ought to keep watch,” Chester ad- vised. ‘Suppose you stand by the door and make believe you are interested in the show in the window, and lll stand in the doorway across the street and watch from there, Then we will have him cornered, as it were,” Fred thought this a good plan, and it was dul adopted. The Keener took position as indicated, but his patience was thoroughly tried before he saw Bertbrong again. Finally, that person and the tailor came to the door. ‘** Allow me, sir,” spoke the man of the shears, deferentially, ‘‘to wish you joy on the momen- tous occasion, “Thank you,” Percy answered, twirling his mustache airily, ‘*[ am a bumble man,” added the tailor, ‘* but I suppose I have fitted out more gentlemen to enter upon wedded bliss than any other person of my calling in New York, and this I will say, my garments fit perfectly. No bagging at the knees, no over-fuliness at the shoulders, and the skirts hang like a poem, ‘You are an artist, certainly.” ‘Thank you, Mr. Berthrong. And now, I ren you and the lady of your choice will be appy. “*T shall, at least, if you get the clothes around on'time. Remember, the event takes place at nine, and I want ’em at six,” “Til not forget. It gives me eight hours, and you shall have them as promised. One doesn’t get married every day, sir.” “Only in Chicago. Good-day, sir.” Bertbrong readjusted his shining hat and sauntered down the street with a satisfied air, The tailor watched him meditatively and murmured; ‘*He makes a swell appearance when J make his clothes, but he’s very cheap stock, himself, And just to think of bis having got old Forry- ster’s daughter! I wonder if the old man will let this flashy fellow squander his dollars?” Berthrong went out of sight, and the tailor re- treated to his lair. Foxy Fred crossed the street and rejoined bis young associate, ** Ches,” he said, quickly, ‘‘ I’m onter his Nibs. Come along after him, an’ l’ll tell ye as we go, Perce bad good reason ter visit the tailor, fer he is goin’ ter git married,” “Ts he?” ‘*Ts he? You take it cool, but don’t yer see it’s an important event? As long as we're inter- ested in Perce, we must be interested in his git- tin’ married. Seems he’s got a rich gal on the string; daughter of a certain Mr, Forryster, whoever he is, The old gent has rocks, an’ I uess Perce knows it. Suy, he’s playin’ in big uck fer a man about town!” ‘That's so.” ** You never heerd of Forryster, did ye?” ‘<Not as a friend of Percy’s, but 1 believe there is a man of that name on Lexington avenue; a rich fellow who moves in high society.” ‘“‘That’s the one, no doubt. Say, we might ssibly cut quite a figger ef we went ter ther orrysters an’ told them w'ot Perce is,” “And have them set us down a3liar-? No; you and I wouldn’t have any influence with them, and the best thing we can do is to keep away.” “You may be right, an’ we'll let it rest fer now. Time enough ter decide before nine o'clock, In the mean while, we'll hey two or three eyes ov Perce, and see w’ot is at work in his brain- dish,” It was not hard to follow Berthrong, but the result was not to their liking, He went home, and though they waited for some time, did not reappear, After the Japse of balf an hour, Ches- ter went to a neighboring jeweler’s store to see what the time was, ‘I’ve got to leave you for now,” !e then an- nounced, ‘but I'll meet you at noon, wherever you say, and go in on any ape we may agree upon, J won’t be rash with promises, for yon haven't told me yet why you are interested in Percy.” ‘*That’s all right, Ches; mebbe I'll tell you, later on. Anyhow, you seem ter be a good fel- ler, an’ I don’t went ter lose sight o’ you. Be sure ter meet me,” The place was duly agreed upon, and then Chester went away, The Keener had no time to meditate upon bis ally, for all his attention became absor when he saw ‘‘Chub” appear not far away. That person entered the bouse where Berthrong made his home, and was invisi- ble for half an hour. *Wot’s goin’ on?” Foxy Fred wondered. “The gang don’t seem ter got their business done yit. onder ef it wouldn’t pay me ter jog along after Chub when he comes out?” He was so impressed with the idea that he de- cided to act upon it, and, when the sandbagger finally made his reappearance and started to re- trace his steps, Fred fell in behind him and moved quietly along in pursuit, He expected the fellow to go home, but when his long and rapid steps finally ceased he was, instead, in asbington Square, Chub paused and looked around him as if in search of some one, nor was he long kept wait- ing, A tall, slender woman advanced to meet him hastily. There was something familiar about her, Fred thought, and be recalled Meg Mason at once, but dismissed the idea presently, The dress was remarkably like hers, but this woman had a more bony form. Her face, too, was unvailed. It was a drawn, careworn face, and she looked like one who bad touched elbows with the roughest of New York's people, but, nevertheless, it was not a hard face, Her air was one of eagerness as she drew near Chub, but he thrust his hands into his pockets and contemplated her sullenly. She began, almost breathlessly: ‘*T have come—” ‘¢- Yes; I see you’ve come, and cholera,” ‘* Morris, I mean no harm—” ‘*Oh! come off! don’t give me any more 0’ yer cheap talk. I’ve met yer as I agreed to. W’ot now? Hey I got ter hear a lecture?” ‘*Tyo I ever lecture you?” **Do you ever do anything else?” “Surely, I don’t interfere with your private affairs, Morris, All 1 ask is that you’ won’t cast me off,” was the pathetic answer. ‘*You women are corkers!” growled Chub. ‘**'You think ef a feller pays any attention to ye, once, he must always be tied ter your apron- strings. Now, I ain’t that sort, an’ you don’t want ter try any funny bizon me, D’ye hear w’ot I say?” The ruffian glared at her and looked as if he intended to assault her then and there, He was very brave when fecing the slender woman, and the brute in his nature showed plainly. ‘“*T never betrayed your conficence or your plans; nobody could be truer than I’ve been,” she humbly replied. ‘* Don’t shout it all over the Square, or some- body may want ter know w’ot plans | bad fer you ter give away. Meg Mason, you make me tired!” ‘*Ob! Morris!” It was a weak reply, but she was not a strong woman, physicelly or mentally, With the sin- gular perversity of her sex, she had given her affection toa man far beneath her in intelli- gence, and she clung to Lim when her judgment must have told her better, Chub glared at her as if her last words had been a deadly insult to him, but he was silent for some time, Gazing at the ground he meditated, ane finally announced bis decision. “T reckon you kin go over ter my sister’s, A feller might as wal try ter shake off a burr as ou, Come on, an’ don’t be yawpin’ my affairs in the street, Jest now, I don’t want my secrets spread out, See?” So does small pox CHAPTER VI. THE HAND OF AN ENEMY. CHUB caught Meg roughly by the arm and pulled her along with him, but she was glad to go even in such an unceremonious way. They left the Square, Foxy Fred had managed to overhear all of this without attracting attention, and it was of interest. The woman was named Meg Mason, It was the same name given by the vailed woman he had met near Percy Berthrong’s house; but the two persons were not one; that was certain. Yet, one had claimed to know about the affairs of ** the gang,” and the other certainly did have such knowledge, _The Keener was puzzled, but be had a sus- picion that the vailed woman had not been what she seemed, She had concealed her face, and be did not doubt that she had given a false name. Who and what was she? As he could not solve this question he set out to follow the second Meg and Chub. It proved to be an easy task, for they entered a house on Macdougal street. The place was something more than a private residence, for a beer-saloon was in the basement, and the room next above had all its windows thrown open as if it was a public resort, The Keener was in the right mood for reckless work, and he only paused to give his predeces~ ars a little time, and then walked in after em, They were not in sight, but the room menticn- ed was open, It was not occupied, just then, but around the long table were chairs, and on it, newspapers, Some one “as in the habit of making it a resort, and Fred suspected that it was well occupied of evenings. Tbere was more security there than in ob in ae house, but this did not suit him; he had come there for infor- mation, and was eager to Jearn more, The murmur of yoices came from the next room. “Dt bet a hat that Chub’s brought up in there,” was the Keener’s comment. - His zeal to press matters at once led him to fresh risks, and he retraced bis steps to the hall and looked for the door of the other room, It was in an alcove where he thought there was a chance of escaping detection, and, seeing a transom above it, he mounted a chair to geta view of the interior. As he had expected, Chub and Meg were there, The former had grown more amiable, ‘*Now, ef you want ter git back inter my good graces, the way is open,” he was saying, ‘an’ the condition ain’t hard,” ‘Tell ine what it is!” she exclaimed, quickly. ** 1¢ concerns Maze.” Meg’s face clouded. ** What of ber?” ‘The boss wants her.” * Hasn’t he got her?” ‘** He has, an’ he ain’t, She’s darned suspicious of him, an’, mebbe, right on the point of turnin’ ag’in’ him. You know how it’s been with her; shell git on her high hoss, an’ then the devil, himself, can’t manage her.” ‘*She has always been very good to me,” ‘“That’s jest it!” Chub declared, viciously. “She bas fairly bewitched you. You didn’t tised ter be that way until she come nosin’ around, but she drilled inter yer the doctrine that because a woman gets stuck on a feller he hadn't orter hev no other woman look at him,” ; “‘T never objected to that, but I was your wife, and—” é ‘ Fling that in my face ag’in, will yer? Be I ter blame? Ain’t I told you often ter go your way an’ let me go mine? But let that drop. Help us in this case, an’ lil still stan’ by ye.” ‘*She’s a fool ef she believes that,” thought Foxy Fred, at the transom. Weak as Meg was, she did doubt, now, and her face showed it. But Chub went on freely: ‘* Maze bas gone back on the boss, Fact is, Meg, Maze has skipped out, Perce don’t know where she is,” ‘sy Well?” ‘* You are the one ter find her. You know more of ber habits than any one else, an’ where she roes; an’ you are one she trusts, Ef you'll find Sar: Perce will pay you bard cash an’ J’l] use ye white,” ‘* Por betraying her!” “Who said anything about betrayin’ her?” “Tf Percy Bertbrong wants her back it is not for any good reason.” “Bab! how you talk: it’s nonsense! I b’lieve he thinks o’ goin’ ter Californy, an’ wants ber along. But let that drop; we needn’t concern ourselves about other folks’s business. We will stick right to our own affairs, Meg, old gal. Now, ever sence Maze got her cranky fit ov she bas been mum ter tke boss, but you hev kept in with her, or, ruther, she’s kept in with you. Nobody else knows her habits as you do, an’ you kin guess where ter find ber, Will you do it?” ‘‘ Did Berthrong ask you to get this favor from me?” ‘+ No; 1t’s all on my own book,” For once Chub told the truth. It was a sudden thought with bim that if he could get the desired information from Meg he would be able to get more money out of Berthrong, He had as- sumed an amiabie manner now, to influence Meg, and the device was not without effect. ‘Tt wouldn’t be right,” she remonstrated, faintly. “Why not?” ‘© He has cast Meza off, and if she’s in hiding, it’s because she’s afraid of him.” * Pshaw!” ‘Percy Berthrong is a dangerous man,” ‘Oh! come, now! The boss don’t like ter be bullied by nobody, but he’s a good feller; he is, Anyhow that needn’t concern us. D’ye know whar Maze is?” ia) No,” ‘But you kin find her?”
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“fT might, perhaps,” ‘Will yer? Meg was silent, She began to tremble. She did not want to betray a sister woman, but her dog-like devotion to that brute beside her knew no bounds, Her common sense told her that his present amiable mood would last only until bis end was accomplisbed, but, like many an- other person before her, she was deaf to reason, She hoped against hope—hoped that he would improve on bis past record, ** Come, old gal, be good!” Chub urged. “*T might do it,” she slowly replied. “* Go ahead, an’ I'll do what’s right.” The promise did not put Meg in a cheerful mood, for she felt that it would be a most cruel and evil act to betray the other woman. Chub saw how she felt, and be began to clinch his hold upon ber, She was taken at a disadvan- tage, for, brute that be was, she rested all her affectionin him, In afew mivutes she had fully agreed to find Maze, “Ob! you beanties!” muttered Foxy Fred, at the transom; ‘* you two would makea pig blush, I kin see that a weak person may be more dan- gerovs than a wicked one, Meg, you ought ter take a reef an’ drop that bulldog lover o’ yours. He will wind up by killin’ you, ef you don’t— an’ you can’t, or won’t, see it!” His disgust was great, but it increased imme- diately after. Without any warning he sud- denly found his ankle clasped by something, and he looked down and saw a man gazing up at him. ** Spy!” quoth that person, tersely. Tbe Keener did some rapid thinking. Many things were capable of two interpretations, but to argue tbat he was not a spy would be a waste of breath. Caught in the act there was only one thing to do, and he did it to the best of his ability. A kick released his ankle aud he made a headlong leap to pass the man; but the latter caught at him and both fell to the floor with a crash, Fred was uninjured, and he promptly endea- vored to worm out of the grasp upon him, but his enemy beld fast and shouted for help. This Gemonstration could have but one re- sult; Chub came rushing out of the room be- yond, > “Grapple on ter hii!” called the man on the floor, ‘ He’s a spy!” Chu seized-the Keener, yanked him to his feet, banged him against the wall, and ex- claimed: ‘*A spy? Who's he been spyin’ on?” “ You ” ‘* Me? He’s been spyin’ on ME! Say, Pil strangle the little viper, right here!” He moved his big hand toward Fred’s throat, but the latter spoke with surprising calmness: ‘*Now, you hold on, admiral! IL object ter bein’ hugged, an’ you may ez well take some- body o’ yer siza, Lain’t done nothin’ out o’ the way. This fellow is down on me—got an old grudge, you see—av’ he’s doin’ this out 0’ spite. **Obt you liar!” shouted the fallen man, “ ’ve a good mind ter smash you fer that. Didn’t I ketch you spyin’ on Chub over the transom?” ‘““Et was me ketched you!” the Keener un- blushingly returned, The accuser was dumfounded by the charge, but it was Chub, himself, who destroyed Fred’s iast hope. He exclaimed: ‘Say, Pveseen you before, boy!” CHAPTER VIL. THE FACE AT THE WINDOW. As Chub spoke these words bis ugly face be- came more ugly, and he glared at Foxy Fred as if he intended to demolisk him, then and there, ** You're the kid that hunted in the street fer us|” he added, suspiciously, ea Keener made a pretense of being sur- rised. “‘ Hello, boss!” he returned; ‘is it really you? I wouldn’t kuown ye ef I hadn’t seen you, b’gosh! So we meet ag’in? Hope I see you well?” ‘*'You see me too well fer your own good!” Chub growled. ‘Et occurred ter me after we left you, last night, that you might not be the innocent duck you pretended ter be, an’ now I know it. So you’ve been houndin’ us? Wal, much good may it do ye, now you’ve got here!” “Now you hold on, admiral; you're all off your borizontal. fer—” Chub turned abruptly to the second man. ** Was this kid spyin’ on me?” “Yes; be had got up in a chair, an’ was look- in’ over the transom an’ hearkin’ ter all you said. “That settles him. His little day is past, an’ I ain’t as bad as you take me Ce er nee nL eee ee ee ian 2 ie} Foxy Fred, the Keener. he won't get a chance ter blow on me, Cale, you’ve got a room, ain’t you?” ; Xa ** We'lllock bim up ty “Say! w’ot’s that?” the Keener cried. ‘‘l’m goin’ ter show you howspies are used when they ‘lighton me, You'll go under lock an’ key, an’ I guess you'll stay there until ye get gray-headed,” “Some off! If Idid, I’d outgrow my pants before then, You must be jokin’, admiral, Come, now, I ain’t—” But Chub cut all protests short and began to drag the Keener toward the stairs. The latter’s first inspulse was toshout for help, but there were three objections to this—perhaps no friend- ly person would hear him, Chub could stop him quickly, and the effort struck the captive as be- ing something which would hurt bis pride, Asa result he remained silent, but struggled so resolutely that Chub and Cale, combined, had to work hard to take him up the stairs, As they reached the floor above the Keener chanced to look down and see Mag Mason, She was gazing up, and her worn face never had looked more sorrowful than then, Fred knew she felt pity for him, but he was equally certain that nothing would come of it. : He was borne into a room and flung heavily into a chair. “There you are!” Chub exclaimed. ‘* Did you expect I thought I was on Brooklyn Bridge?” the Keener retorted. “You never’ll be there, again.” : “Now, look here: what’s all this fuss about? Why am I set upon like this? Why be you down on me?” “Boy,” the crook exclaimed, in an intense voice, ** you never’}l tell who did the sandbag- in?!” “ Wot sandbaggin’?” ‘Your innocence won’t go down, you ter dog me, anyhow?” ** Nobody,” was the stout assertion, * You’re a liar.” ‘** Mister, ef you know this story better’n I do, tell it yerself. [ll be darned ef I waste any more breath on it!” Fred rightly felt that it would bea waste of breath, but Chub was not disposed to give up so easily. The prisoner turned his head away in disgust, but the captor persevered and subjected him to a close cross-questioning, He made noth- ing out of it. The Keener was merely flippant, and Chub found himself badly left. 2 He abandoned the effort, at last, in disgust, but his expression continued morose and ugly. He felt sure that trouble was afoot for bim, and that the boy bad come as the ally of a maturer Who set nemy. “Wal, keep yer mouth shut, ef you're bound ter,” be finally exclaimed, viciously. ‘* You'll get humble before yousee the outside o’ this house, Bring a rope, Cale.” - The rope was brought, and Chub tied the Keener’s hands behind his back, To this the latter made no remonstrance, for he knew he could not change the current of events, and was too proud to beg for mercy. “*Thatil do,” the captor commented, “T'll leave you here, pow. Once a day you'll get bread an’ water, but no more, Ef you baw], Cale will come in an’ smash your jaw.” ‘* That I will!” Cale cheerfully agreed, “You can’t make my jaws look worse than yours, gents,” Fred coolly observed. ‘‘ They look like circular saws, banged all out o’ shape, but their sharpness is mostly wind.” Realizing that nothing was to be gained by talking with him, bis captors left the room and locked the door after them. The Keener was left alone to meditate on his reverses, This he did in his usual way. “ Frederick Walsingham Mather, your name is McGinty Mud,” he remarked, ‘“ You are worse off than a city alderman after be’s been found out, You ain’t “up the river,’ but you’re up Salt Creek an’ down in the mouth, You're boodooed an’ hung up ter dry!” He arose and walked to the one window of the room, This gave only a dim light, for it did not lead to the open air, but tosome otber room, The lower half was provided with shutters, and these, being closed and fastened, shut out his view completely, except that, by looking over the top, he could see the ceiling of the next room —but scant satisfaction. He sat down again, ‘*T’ve got inter a fix, an’ that hundred dollars o’ Mrs, Redburn’s don’t look as big as it did, Guess I wasn’t cut out fer a detective, S’pose I ought ter caveinan’s ed a bar’l o’ tears, but I ain’t in practice at weepin’.” Despite this cheerful view of the case, he real- ized that he was in a bad situation. He had come there without notifying any friend. M Mason knew where he was, and evidently felt pity for him, but she was wholly under the ioflu- ence of Chub, Sbe was not likely to betray him to aid any one. The Keener had a fierce struggle with his bonds, but, ites to get his hands free, gave it up and settled down to await the next turn of the tide with as much of philosophy as he could summon. Hours passed; how many, he could not tell. He grew very weary of the situation, and more than once was tempted to shout for help, but it was clear that his enemies would bear him first of all, and that it probably would re- sult only in his being put under more painful restraint. What was that? A sound at the window, and the Keener looked up quickly.. Pressed close to the glass was a human face. He saw it, surely, but it dropped out of sight before he could fairly impress it upon bis mind! “That’s queer!” __ He made the comment because the face had not been that of a bearded rough; it was a young, almost a childish face, he thought. He watched for its reg cere eagerly. If a child, could he not enlist the person in his favor? Several minutes passed. He went to the window. He spoke in a guarded voice; there was no answer. Turnivg, be rapped on the shutters; there was no response, Becoming weary, at last, be returned to bis chair. Darkness thichened in the room, and he, knew day was departing from the outside world. ‘Ts gone from me already,” be thought, with asigh. ‘This is ruther tough,” In a short time the shadows were so deep that he could see nothing except the upper part of the window, and that was but little lighter than the darkness around it, Once more the Keener’s head rose quickly. There was a sound at.the window; a low, soft sound, aud one which he could not fail to recog- nize, The sash was being lowered ! Quickly he gained his feet, but his vision was not keen enough te tell what had been done there, All sound ceased. Was the window really open? He continued to look, and then, even in the dim light, he saw a round object ap- pear. A human heed; it could be nothing else. But the silence remained unbroken until even the strong-willed Keener began to grow nervous, Then at last came a low question: ‘“‘Ts anybody there?” “1'%m here, b’jinks!” declared Fred, ** Who are you?” ‘*Who be you ?” returned the prisoner, wa- rily. x What are you doing in there?” ‘* Fact is, ’min quod. Say, pard, give me a lift, willye? I take et you’re a kid, like me, an’ you must know w’ot it is ter be shut up like a bear in Central Park, Let a feller out, won't e? ‘* Fred, don’t you know me?” “Know ye? Who be ye? By crickey! it can’t be you’re Ches Lynn, can it?” ‘¢That’s just who I am.” **Great ’skeeters! Help me out—” **Not so loud!” Ches cautioned. ‘‘ Chub Mason and all his gang are bere, and our very lives are in peril, It’s good-by to us if they catch us!” CHAPTER VIII. CHECK TO THE KING, DUGALD FoRRYSTER was considered a lucky man. He bed inberited a fortune, and the money bad been so left that all he had to do was to sit still and let it pour a fine income into bis pocket, A trusty agent saw to the business, and as the results more than paid his most generous expenses, Mr, Forryster bad never had cause to worry. Eas His two sons were more ambitious than he, and were in the remotest part of Oregon, trying to make fortunes of theirown. This Jeft only one child with the father, his daughter Zadeh, Forryster was not proud, and from their in- fancy his children had been taught tbat a poor man was just as good asarich man, This was a very comfortable doctrine, and did mucb credit to Forryster; but he had never carried it beyond precept. t was left for Zadah to furnish the practice, and she did it with a vengeance, When it was announced that she was to marry Percy Bertbrong, the question was com mon, Who was he? For several weeks Zadah
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aiaes' Malas |, Tae) kOe meh xp oe i 8 ee: — ages a 3 “Z _ ster’s fever was in his veins, et and her father had been trying to answer, but the measure of their success may be imagined when it is said that they did not even know themsel ves, They had relied upon Mr, Berthrong for au answer, but his explanations never d ex: plained much, Of course Dugald Forryster had investigated, but it had not amounted to much. Berthrong had been reared in a quiet New Jerssy town, but had left there at the age of eighteen, and bis leter acquaintance bad been in New York. Several city men bad spoken well of him, but Forryster thonght they stood in need of recommendations, themselves, and had ad- vised his daughter to give Berthrong up. Unfortunately, Zadah had but little of what was boldly practical, to use a mild expression, and she clung to her lover, As a result, it was Forryster who gave way. He did it with _ misgivings, but with as much of outward cheer- fulness as he could assume, avd made ready for the wedding. If the Forrysters had been of the Four Hun- dred the invited guests might not have swal- lowed Mr. Percy Berthrong, but the circle in which they moved bowed down to money rather than noble birth, The bride’s father had money, aud they were not particular as to the groom. At the same time when Foxy Fred was lan- guishiog in bonds all was bustle and excitement at Forryster’s, and preparations were being made for the grand event. {n due time the guests came, So did Percy. Mr. Berthrong looked well on this occasion. All suggestions of Guttenburg had been elimi- nated from his attire, and his tailor had almost made a vew man of him, His clothing was modest, and he tried to be, though the game- Why sboulu’t it be? He was playing for bigger stakes than he ever had seen up where the ivory chips clicked and the painted pasteboards brought joy or sor- row to those who held them. The son of fortune behaved well, He had brought no gambler friend with bim, but, hav- ing wheedled a weak young man of good family into acting as best man, was backed up bya solid wall of respectability, Tae only weak point was just where Percy, himself, stood, Tae eventful hour arrived, and so did the min- ister. Tne chief actors prepared for their parts inthe play. Percy and Zadah faced the rev- erend gentleman, and the son of fortune was as demure as if he held a straight flush, The rever- end gentleman cleared his throat in order to make bis tones sonorous and mellifluous, He was about to begin the ceremony when a messenger-boy appeured on the scene, In one ‘band he bore a long, neatly-folded document. He was, also, the bearer of a message, and he proceeded to deliver it in a clear voice: ““T have been sent bere to give a wedding present to Miss Zadah Forryster, and it is the wish of the donor that it should be received at this moment, As itis valuable, it is to be hoped this novelty will be allowed,” The guests looked at the folded paper and then at each other. . ** The deed of a house!” they whispered. But Percy Berthrong’s eyelids quivered strangely. He did not like this interruption. “T suggest that we wait until the ceremony A ag he putin, quickly, but as coolly as pos- sible Zadah, however, had heard the whispers from her frierds, and her spirits and ambition soared high. The paper was being held in front of her, and she disregarded her chosen one’s protest, ‘*There’s no time like the present,” she cried, and caught at the present, Quickly she usfolded it, ber face gay and happy. She looked—then her smile faded away. Her faces grew white, Se stared at the paper in something that looked like dismay. Then she reeled and would bave fallen had not the best man caught her in his arms, She bad fainted, Percy Berthrong made a movement to secure the paper, which had fallen from ber hand, but it bad sailei away directly to Mr. Forryster’s feet, and it was he who picked it up. x In turn he scanned it; in turn his face grew pale and startled, Toe groom did not dare to interrupt. Every one else was silent, and the old igentleman - looked to his fill, This done he thrust the docu- ment into bis pocket. then gave his orders; “Take my daughter to her room, He glanced around, and I reqnest the guests to remain here until they receive fur- —— ey Foxy Fred, the Keener. meet directions, Mr, Berthrong, come with me The last words were in a low voice, and the first bad been so free from excitement the now startled guests found some ground to hope notk- ing serious had occurred outside of the bride’s swoon—though that was hard to explainin a matter-of-fact way. Mr. Berthrong was unable to find anything encouraging in the situation, and his steps and heart were alike heavy as he followed the mas- ter of the house to the library. Once there For- ryster turned upon him abruptly, and the ad- 1g art fate was to be read in the older man’s ace, ‘*Sir,” began the rich man, ‘do you know what this paper is?” ‘No, sir.” **Tt is the copy of a marriage-certificate.” * Does it interest us?” ** Does it? Well, [ should say it does, espe- cially, you! ‘Tis the proof of a marriage two years back, The bride was Mary Stannard; the groom’s name was Perey Berthrong!”, «& ‘* What!” cried the son of fortune, “is there another man with a namelike mine? But, by my life!’ he added, as if impressed with a sud- den idea, ‘‘ there is more to this-than there seems, Some one has tried to play a scurvy trick on me; the intention is to blacken my reputation, No wonder Zadah fainted,” “ Right, sir; right. No wonder she fainted, Any woman would, if she learned at the! altar that her chosen husband was a bigamist!” ** A bigamist?” **That’s the word, sir.” ‘But it is false; infamously false, Mr. For- ryster. I+ tell you it is a scurvy trick, An enemy, or some misguided friend, bas done this. I declare sir, that I'm innocent, A bigamist? Never, never!” ‘*This document begins with the added head- line, ‘ Copy of the marriage-certificate of Percy Berthrong and Mary Stannard—’ ”’ “That's it; they admit it’s only a ‘copy.’ What reliance can be placed on such a paper? Strong in my innocence, I—” ** And,” pursued Forryster, grimly, ‘‘ it ends with another added line: ‘If the reliability of the above is doubted, consult the City Records at the Buréau of Vital Statistics,’” Berthrong’s face fell, ‘If such a marriage took place, and the law was complied with,” Forryster added, ‘‘ the marriage is recorded at the above place.” ““If it be recorded on the court house door, I am innocent! ‘* declared LDerthrong. ‘There may be another of the name, or a dozen; but that paper does not concern me, Iam not mar- ried, and never was,” ** Perhaps you will be able to prove it. We will not discuss the matter further now. I am going to dismiss the guests.” : ‘Mr. Forryster,” exclaimed Percy, eagerly, ‘if you will wait until Zadah recovers—” ‘“*T must decline. Women’s heads are weak when their hearts are at stake, and, however it might be with my daughter, lam not going to give her a chance to ally herself with a would- be bigamist,” Berthrong stood silent, and the rich man’s gaz2 seemed to chill him through. Verily, the : cards had not run well that night, CHAPTER IX. THE RAT UNDER THE LOUNGE, Foxy Frep did not disregard the warning from Ches Lyun, and he lowered his voice as ho answered; “Tm painfully aware that there is danger o our bein’ ketched, These ropes on my wrists prove it. All samee, I think 1 see a way fer us ter git out, ef yoo bev good luck, Lreckon you're here fer that purpose.” “Yes,” Ches agreed, I can cut those bonds?” “Pard, I’m about helpless, You'll hev ter craw] in,” “ Here I come!” Ches swung himself over the top of the shut- ter, and in short order cut the cords, “That's better,” declared the Keener, much relieved, ‘‘Ches, you’rea brick! But bow in thunder did you come ter be ‘round here?” ‘*f happened along the street just as you went in. I thought it was you, but wasn’t sure. I waited for you to come out, but when you failed to appear, I began to be worried. I thought it wasn’t right fo leave until I was sure about it, so I found a boy who was acquainted with the house; and when I had questioned him, I went around back aud come in by the rear door, un- seen, ‘Can you stand up so **Ches, you’re a bully boy with an eagle eye. I’m proud ter hev sech a runnin’ mate, Ireckon that back door swings both ways?” ty Eb?” : one mean, kin we go out as neat as you come in? “‘T wish I knew, Chub Mason, Eph and an- other man are playing cards in a room near the hall. The door is open, and I expected to be seen coming in, but 1 waited until they began to laugh over something in the play, and then bur- ried past the door,” ** Good boy, Ches! But can’t we go out the front way, an’ avoid them?” ‘*No, Men are now in the reading-room, and a guard is at the strest-door.” “By crickey! we dou’t want ter see him. We'll do the back-way act, Comeon!” The Keener grasped the top of the shutter, and, being cautioned by Ches, drew himself over without noise. The smaller adventurer follow- ed, and then proceeded to explain the line of re- treat, The ball was justahead, and they started along this, When the door of the card-room was reached, they became on the alert, but utter silence there was followed by the discovery that the room was vacant. Greatly elated, they went to the outer door, but’ Chester’s face suddenly assumed an expres- sion of dismay. ** Is locked!” he whispered. ‘* Where’s the key?” Foxy Fred failed to see the article indicated, but bis prolific mind soon found another plan. “ Skedaddle inter the card-room, an’ then git out o’ ther winder!” he directed, To the card-room they went, but they found both windows nailed down, This unpleasant fact was still revolving in their minds when voices and footsteps sounded in the hall, * Ter cover!” cried tbe Keener, and be made a dive for the space under the lounge, It was a close fit, but made an admirable cover. Ches seemed to be a trflerattled, but he man- aged to get crouched down behind the stove be- foreany one appeared. Then Chub and his two companions re-entered, wiping their bearded lips and looking bappy. They resumed card-pla ying. ‘*Your deal, Eph,” reminded Chub, yer I get a full hand.” ‘ ‘*T won’t give ye better’n u pair o’ trays,” de- clared Eph, shi.ffling. “Pll ‘fill,’ then,” Chub asserted, ‘* What’s our game, ter Berthrong’s?” grum- bled the third man, ‘‘He’s got a hand that can’t be beat.” “ An’ a wife that can’t be ‘ beat,’ bev ter sail low, or his rich dad will disinherit him. “Things don’t go even in this world,” declared Chub, ‘Here we're strugglin’ in poverty, while Perce gets loaed with cash by scoopin’ in old Forryster’s daughter.” ** What ef Maze shows up?” “Then PReree will be nabbed fer bigamyef she squeals on bim,” “Tt? Why sbouldn’t she? She’s got the dump.” —_ **No doubt sho now hates him like sin, bu Perce is a long-beaded feller, It wonldn’t snr- prise me ter see him get Maze shut up, an’ keep her there,” S ‘* He’d better, ef he wants any peace. Perce is airy an’ confident, but things don’t look so rosy for him as they might, Now, there’s that man from Obio, He may make trouble,” “J ain’t so sure o’ that: the boss give hima great biff with the sandbag.” “Say, who is that Buckeye duck, anyhow?” “Don’t know, exactly, but it seems he come on here on some errand which would make it hot for Perce, Tbe bayseed had a wrong to wipe ont, He come near gettin’ wiped out bis- self, Pearce biffed him, stole bis papers, an’ then left him sprawlin’.” **T! don’t bear o’ bim in the papers, as a bhos- pital subjick,” ‘* He must be there, Mebbe the coppers are layin’ low. The old chap jlayed in bard luck. He come on bere, ef I git it right, ter see about a gal, or boy, 0’ his own; 1 don’t know which, It was his child, anvhow, an’ Perce had done bim dirty. Now, he’s fell on the old man. Guess the hayseed fam’ly: ain’t stuck on the boss, anv more,” All three of the rougbs lnughed at this, as if it was the best joke imaginable, but Foxy Fred was not of the same opinion. He remembered the stricken man at Doctor McNab!s, and regis- tered a vow to bring his assailants to justice. If there bad been any doubt as to their identity, ** Bet He will .
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8 before there was none now, and he intended to notify the police x Just then, however, the Keener had all he could do to attend to his own affairs, The conversation between Chub and his com- panions bad not been continuous, The card- playing had been going on briskly, and the usual terms of poker bad spiced the other subject. The zeal with which they played was not indicative of early adj urnment, and the Keener and Ches were fast prisoners until they did adjourn. Still, it was better than being sbut up in the other room, and Foxy Fred would bave been quite philosophical had it not been for one fear. What if some one should look into the room where be bad been confined? That meant the discovery of the fact that he was missing, and consequent search for hin. Sborily after the conversation recorded, there was a clinking sound on the floor and a dog trot- ted into the room, Now, the Keener had al- ways been an admirer of dogs, and he liked to see them around, but in this case he did not feel that way. Chub and his allies were very dan- gerous, but the dog was more so, Unless led by a general search the men were not likely to look under the lounge, while the dog— The dog dropped his nose to the floor and walked directly toward the lounge, “Oh! you fiend!” thought the Keener, The dog thrust -bis nose under the furniture. Fred had receded as far as the wall would allow and the dog was too big to follow easily. He looked at Fred, snuffed and whined. Then he began to claw at the floor, and incidentally did some more whining. ‘*Stop it, you brute!” growled Chub. The dog answered by running to the speaker and thrusting bis nose against Chub’s hand, as evidence that be wanted attention, but the man boxed bis ears and he retired abashed, He did not forget his ruling impulse, however, and he again poked his head under the Keener’s refuge and clawed at the floor. ‘‘Rat under the lounge, I guess,” remarked Epb; and the third man added: ‘““They have the biggest ratsin this house I ever seen any where,” Nobody commented on this statement, but if the lounge had been overturned, the trio would have agreed that the rodent in this case was a very large “rat.” Foxy Fred duly noticed the rough’s erroueous idea, but saw no joke about it. In the past he had seen some illustrations of the pertinacity of dogs, and this particular canine’s curiosity threat- ened to do mischief. Once let him make bimself a nuisance to his friends and they would be cer- tain to move the lounge, to end it. The rebaff from Chub was a good thing for the boys, for the dog kept his feelings somewhat un- der, but he tried the lounge from every point, and poked about with his nose, and whived a lament because he could not get at the Keener, Finally, he ceased operations and stood still, a meditative air hanging around bim, Then he turned and walked toward the stove, Fred saw this with dismay. There was no obstruction to prevent bis getting at Ches, CHAPTER X, AT THE POINT OF DISCOVERY, Foxy FRep felt that be was in the worst kind of a fix, Cramped up under the lounge he could not make a dash for liberty, if it came to that, and it seemed certain that the dog would make trouble for Ches, The animal moved around thestove, This ob- ject was large, and wholly concealed him, and the Keener could only rely upon bis hearing for information. Much to his surprise, however, there was no disturbance, there, and the seconds wore on with the situation as peaceful as ever. Then the dog reappeared, Evidently, he bad investigated in the other quarter, and his lack of hostility encouraged Fred so much that, when the canine nose was again thrust under the lounge, the boy put out his band to make friends with the investigator, It was a mistake, for the dog snarled and snap- ped at the band viciously, ‘Say, what in sin ails Tempest?’ Eph demand- ed “Got the jim-jams!” “Or a nightmare.” These suggestions did not satisfy Epb. He had just Jost heavily on four queens, and felt like taking a recess, He rather welcomed Tempest’s demonstration, ‘** There’s ter be no peace here until the dog has a chance ter get at things. There must be a bole in the wall, aud I dare say the rats are thumbin’ Foxy Fred, the Keener, and give the dog full play!” He rose and walked forward. Foxy Fred set his teeth aud prepared to leap up the moment he was uncovered, ' Eph laid hold of the lounge. At that moment there was a new sound at the door, and a man entered. Epb paused and, like his fellows, looked toward that point, They saw a man who was supposed to be elsewhere— Percy Berthrong, in brief. He was still in his fine bridal costume, but he did not look likea happy groom, On the contrary, his clothes were rumpled, bis face flushed and sullen, and the odor of whisky prevailed where he walked, “Thunder! you back?” exclaimed Chub. Berthrong sat down heavily. ‘* Where in perdition do you think I am?” he demanded, sharply. ‘““ Why, you’re bere,” “Then I’m not in the mayor's chair, am I?” ** You may git inter a cell at the lock-up, ef you pile on that jag much more.” ‘Say, boss,” more sympathetically asked Eph, ‘what about the weddin’?” Mr. Berthrong threw his head back and spoke. At the end of three minutes he had given no direct information, but had fired out certain strong, but disconnected speeches which, in their lurid picturesqueness, made even the old-timers before him sit dazed and silent. As they could say nothing when he finished, he fi- nally pulled himself together and spoke intelligi- bly: if The wedding hag gone to smash!” oe No {” ‘*Indefinitely postponed, and all the guests sent home, Guests mystified; bride in a swoon; bride’s father hot under the collar; groom drunk!” So saying, Percy kicked the dog and slid down in his chair until kis bead nearly went through his collar, ** What’s done it?” Chub asked, in disinay. “What? Whatdo yousuppose? Whosbould it be but a woinan? Who ruins all the men?” ‘* Was it Maze?” “Sure! The tigress sent a copy of our mar- riage-certificate, and kad it presented to old Forryster’s girl just es we were to be married, You can guess the result—but I’ve told you al- ready,” ‘* That was a shabby trick o’ Maze’s,” ‘*Shabby! Why, she’s ruined me! Curse the luck! l’ve used that woman equare, ‘and I told her if she would let me go Id pension her off. Of course I didn’t tell her I was to marry again, but she kicked up a row all the same; said I was her husband, and she wouldn’t let me go. Of all selfish beiugs womeu are the worst! . Well, she found out I was going to marry Over again, in some way; and then she ( dropped on me, It must bave been she who sent that bombshell. Well, it’s the same old story; a man ruined by a woman)” Berthrong glared at vacancy, and meditated | on the evil ways of women iu general and wives in particular, and bis friends looked and ver- bally expressed their sympathy. At last Chub broke the silence: ** What are you going ter do about it?” ** Do?" hissed Berthrong; ‘I’m going to find Maze, and Ill make ber pay for her spitefulness as debt never was paid before. Tl get her into my power, and I'll imprison her somewhere and put her through a course of torture to which the work of the old-time inquisitors will be as noth- ing. Every means I can devise sha}] be used, She shall live a living death!” Foxy Fred shivered at the fiendish expression on the speaker’s face, and the tone of his voice, and thought it was lucky that ‘‘ Maze” was not then present, ‘* Perhaps you can smooth it over with old man Forrvster,” Eph suggested. ** No; the warning bade him go to the Bureau of Vital Statistics,aud if he does that he will find that I really was married to Maze. Oh! the game is up, sure, and my only satisfaction will be to get square with Maze,” ** We'll trust you to do that,” “You can!” Bertbrong struck the table violently, where- upon the dog, who bad been lingering near bim, howled and started for the lounge again, **You slugged old Jordan all fer notbin’, boss,” remarked Chub, “Yes; and lost something which may Jand me in prison, I’d give a cool fifty for that watch- charm, I’m afraid it’s in the hands of the police, Say, what in perdition ails that dog?” Tempest was again reconnoitering under the lounge. “‘ Tt’s rats,” explained Chub, their noses at him, I'll pull the lounge away, | a gh a ‘Pm goin’ ter give the dog a chance,” Epb said this, and once more be moved for- ward to pull the lounge away. Again, too, the Keener felt that his last hepe was gone. Woe be unto him if Percy Berthrong found a spy there at that stage of affairs! ‘* Hang the rats!” ejaculated Perce, “I want a drink, and I invite all of you to imbibe with me. Come on, and let the rats go to blazes!” Eph bad paused as the word “drink” fell up- on hisauricular organs, and he promptly cbe): d the call toarms. The Keener bad another re- prieve, and, what was better, all four men went out of the room at once, Tempest bad not been included in the invitation, but he went with the crowd, Quickly Foxy Fred came out of his hiding- lace. “*Ches, old boy, we’ve got ter skip!" he ex- claimed, . He looked around anxiously. ** Door locked, and all the windows nailed up, Say, we’ve got ter sneak out the front way,” “ There’s a guar at the door,” reminded Ches, ** Can’t help it; it’s our only show,” Ches hesitated and looked at the windows, ‘* I’m sure we wouldn’t be allowed to go out, and every moment is of great value, I move we break the window! 1lt’s only a dash after that, and we shall be safe,” “Pm with you, my hearty!” Fred seized achair and, going close to the window, sent it crashing through, Glass and sash alike disappeared, and the desired open- ing was at hand, but so much noise had been made thatit was certain they could not escape too quickly. The Keener sprung through like a gymnast and then gave his compenion a lift, and both were soon on the other side, Behind them the barking of the dog was to be heard, and they ran on, They were in a back yerd, but not of the usual kind. There was a clear passage to the next street, and they were fast approaching the exit when two men loomed up in advance, The run- uers naturally attracted attention. ** What's this?” demanded one, “Sometbing’s wrong, Seize them!” * Dodge, an’ skip, Ches!” ordered Fred, The direction was successfully obeyed, theugh Ches cnly escaped capture by a bair’s breadth, as it were, and then they dashed on toward the point of safety. It was a great relief when their feet once more touched a city street, ‘““But we can’t loaf ’round here,” declared Fred. ‘*Them skunks will be after us, an’ they’d swear a wooden Injun’s life away. Le’s take a sneak !” This was dona so successfully that they soon found themselves several blocks away, and tbeir safety was assured, ‘““That’s wot I call a close rub,” commented the Keener, ‘lve been through enough, ter- day, ter turn white beir black, but there’s enough left o’ me ter lick Perce & Co,!” CHAPTER XL HUNTING HUMAN GAME, ‘Ts Mrs, Redburn in?” Foxy Fred asked the question, the next morn- ing, at the house where his lady employer was residing, and when investigation showed that she was in, he was conducted to her presence, “Fine mornin’, mum!” he observed, “ Yes,” Mrs. Redburn answered, around at an early bour.” ‘¢ The early worm ketches the bird’s eye,” re- marked the Keener, enigmatically. ‘*Have you any news?” ** An artom; jest an artom,” and Fred shut one eye and nodded gravely. ‘' Fact is, lve had a brush with them tonghs-an’ crooks, an’ ef you want ter pay me my bundred dollars, yu kin let ’er twinkle, Perce Berthrong is thir duck that did the dark deed, an’ a band-curt ride ter the Tombs would about fit bis 1equiic- ments,” ** Tell me all,” It was a long story, but the Keener went through it eloquently. In particular, he set out the scene in the card-room in strong colors. “You kip see that it was Perce who smote C. FE. Jordan, of Peland, O., an’ 1 wuz in favor cf hevin’ him nabbed at once, but my pard, Ches, when he heerd the story—I tol’ him all, mun), *ecause he had proved be was a good *un-——he ad- vised me ter come ter you, bein’s how you as my boss, an’ let you hear the whole story before I proceeded fer ter act.” “Dm glad you did,” Mrs. Redburn answered. “While Mr. Jordan lies unconscious I don’t think it would be wise to trouble Rertbrong. “You are cA at ‘
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_— Just what the Ohio man’s errand to New York was we don’t know. We may do damage by being too precipitate.” “ All right, mum.” The Keener responded readily, though he was not a little disappointed by the decision. ‘“ A message eave just received from Doctor McNabb tells me that Jordan is not improved,” ‘He takes his time fer gettin’ wal,” Fred grumbled. ‘‘ W’ot be I goin’ ter do while I wait? I s’pose ef | knew where ter look fer ‘Maze,’ Bertbrong’s wife, I might find her, an’ warn ber.” ** She is likely to keep under cover.” ‘*She’d botter, or Meg Mason will do her up. Meg is so stuck on Chub, an’ ez he’s told ber ter betray Maze, Meg will do it.” “Tet us think of Jordan, rather than these wretched women. If we only could learn why he came to New York—” A servant knocked at the door. **Doctor McNabb would like to see you, ma’am,” was the announcement. The applicant was soon at hand, *T’ve got a telegram from Poland, Obio, at last,” he stated, ‘* Jordan don’t live there.” ‘* Then we're wholly at loss,” “Yes, The hotel register, there, has the name, Cyprus E. Jordan, for the 12th instant, followed by the address, Chicago, Ill,” but I’ve been to the commercial agency, on University Place, and seen a city Directory of Chicago, The name of Cyprus E, Jordan is not therein, and I think the Windy City never fails to register every man they can lay hands on. Inference: Jordan, if a Chicago man, must be a new-comer there, and would be correspondingly hard to locate,” * That's tough!” The Keener made the declaration, and every one agreed with him, Then they discussed the matter fully, but could only arrive at the de- cision that they must give Jordan time to recover in a measure, ‘*T might go ’round an’ see the hotel registers, here,” remarked Fred, ‘‘but there’s about a million of them, an’ nobody ever kin tell where a stranger will put up when he blows inter town.” Seeing nothing further to do, the Keener left the house and walked away, shortly after. He had no definite plan in view, and was moving slowly along, mentally lamenting the delay, when a familiar form appeared not far away. It was that of Meg Mason. The woman looked haggard, as if she had passed a sleepless night, or several of them, and a certain expression on ber face impressed Foxy Fred most unpleasantly, She looked at several of the passers-by as she walked, but never at the men, For those of her own sex she had a most intense and unpleasant stare, as if she would devour them with her eyes, The reason of this quickly became apparent to the Keener. Meg was a woman-hunter ! She was looking for Maze! To Fred this fact was not only startling, but mournful, Tne two women had been compan- ions in. misfortune. Each bad wasted aff-ction on fa villain, Alike they had suffered negiect, insults and abuse, and as they must have known each other well, each must have been witness to the otner’s sorrows, Doomed to the same hard fate they should have felt keenly for each other, but Meg was pow prepared to betray her friend for the sake of getting the good will of a man, who, as her common sense ought to have told her, would forget all, the moment she ceased to be useful, Tbe Keener hung back, fearful that he would be recognized, but be might have spared his pains. In her wild hunt for buman game, Meg saw ouly those who were like the one she sought —only women. There was some one else there who was atten- tive to Meg. A man suddenly ran into Foxy Fred with force which made the latter’s anger rise, He tarned to remonstrate warmly, but said nothing. The man was young; he was partially intoxicated; he was looking at Meg in a strange and intent way. Suddenly he walked up to ber. ‘Say, what fiend’s work are you engaged in?” he demanded, sharply, She was slow in turning her own gaze upon him, and then she seemed to find the sight of no interest, She turned away impatiently. “Ohl you can’t shake me like that!” he ex- claimed. ‘* Keep away!” she ordered. you.” **Don’t know me? What's the use of lying? You know me well, and I know you and your **T don’t know gang only too well. Too well! My ruin lies at your door!” He swung his arms wildly, but Foxy Fred was unable to tell whether it was the effects of liquor or something else. Meg certainly did not seem to know him, and she returned, more im- patiently than before: ‘“*T never saw you in my life.” ‘You are all bound up in lies, Now, look bere!—I want to talk with you. I am on m last legs, and it is all owing to the gang. I fell afoul of you, and what is the result? I am a wreck! Now, I want you to act for me, I want money, and I want it the worst way: 1 must have it. I want you to go to the leader of the gang and get it. Have you no pity? Don’t you see how hard-up I am? Can’t you help a feller when he is’way down? I’ve got a mother, I bave; and you ought to be woman enough to feel for me. Won’t you give a run- down dog a lift?” The young man swayed to-and-fro on his feet, and tears ran down his cheeks. It was a melan- choly sight to see one of his youth and strength in such a condition, but the tears were of maud- lin nature, What cause be bad for his complaints Fred could not tell, but he took it all in eagerly. Meg Mason was too much absorbed in her own mania to heed any other person’s, In acertain way she must have realized what his allusions to “the gane” meant, even if she did not know the young map, but she would not miss any female passer-by. Irritably shaking off the hand he had laid on her arm, she apswered: ** Let me alone!” Then he grew angry. **So you won’t hear to me?” he cried, ‘* You won’t give me any chance to save myself? By heavens! I won’t stand any more of this, I may be a dog that’s to be kicked into the gutter, but I’m not a dog that will slink in a back-alley after heing kicked, If I am despised and cast off, PH show my teeth! Ill be revenged on somebody! Tlil—” The drunken man had grown violent. He seized Meg roughly and shook her savagely. She was accustomed to usage like this, and made no outery, but a patrolinan bad been advanc- ing, and he now brought bis locust down on the assailant’s hand with force which made the latter release his hold quickly. The unknown saw the policeman, and all of his aggressiveness disappeared. He seemed to sober up in a breath, and with this condition came one of fear, He would have taken to bis heels, but the policeman held him fast. Then he stared in pale-faced dismay, ‘**T ain’t dove anything,” he protested, huskily. ‘* Ain’t you? Well, we'll let a justice decide that. 1’m going to run you in.” CHAPTER XII. CHUB MEDITATES TREACHERY, THE policeman punched his prisoner in the ribs with his club, in the nonchalant way peculiar to blue-coats, but the latter did not re- sent it. He stood silent, speechless with fear. The threat of actual arrest had taken bis last atom of strength away, und he was an abject coward, *T don’t think he meant anything. wrong, officer,” remarked Meg Mason, her usually active sympethies aroused, ‘‘He didn’t do me any harm,” ‘“Do you know him?” the patrolman asked. “No, sit.” ‘Jest an ordinary drunk, is be?” ts Yes,” ‘*Then I won’t take the labor of appearing against bim to-morrow, Here, you lusber, get out of this, quick! If I find you on my beat again, [ll pull you, s’elp me! Get to blazes out of here!” Again he punched the drunken man in the ribs, and gave bimapush,. The fellow started quickly, but tbe blue-coat bad some fear that he would not keep going, and, not wanting to be bothered with him, he turned bis baek upon the stranger and walked away, Thus i¢ was that nobody was about to inter- fere when, affer the latter had gone a few yards, he was accosted by another man. In this person, Foxy Fred, who was keenly observant of everything, bad already recognized an old ac- quaintance, It was Chub Mason, and the way in which he had advanced, while this scene was transpiring, indicated that he was watching Meg, to see if she did her work properly. The stranger almost ran into Chub, who seized him roughly by the arm. ** You fool!” be exclaimed, ‘‘ w’ot are ye tryin’ ter do, anyhow.” The younger man’s face brightened. 9 ‘‘Oh, Chub!” he cried, ‘save me, saveme!” “Save nothin’! Quit yer howlin’, or you'll hev a dozen coppers after you, instead o’ one. Don’t yer know any better than ter git a jag on ye an’ go sailin’ around the streets?” ** T was desperate,” ‘** You must ’a’ been, you blamed idiot!” ‘*Chub, you don’t understand. I bave no one to stay with me; no one to talk to, to break the awful solitude; nothing but the bure walls of my wretched little room to look at, My con- science and my fears drove me almost crazy, and I came out and peured down liquor madly. You never saw me drunk before. This is the work of despair. Chub, if only you and Percy would come to see me—” 6 ‘* W’ot ve we got ter do with yer?” growled bub, **-You’ve had too much to do with me; you've ruined me; that’s what you’ve done, If { were to tell the police all I know—” ‘Rasy, now,” interrupted the tough, less belligerently. ‘ You can’t frighten us with threats; we’ve got a ‘ pull,’ an’ nobody kin run us in. But, look you, I never go back on no- body ; I won’t go back on you ef you’re sensible. Jest you go home an’ stay there, an’ Pll drop around an’ see you just as soon as [ attend toa little biz Ihev on band. Waita bit, though! I can soon attend to it; you stay right here until I come back, Eh?” ‘* This is rather too public a place,” hesitatingly returned the stranger. “Tt'll be all right, fer I won’t keep ye waitin’ but a second. Stay rigbt here!” Chub bastened away, and his companion re- mained, though manifestly ill at ease, The liquor bad in a measure got out of his muddled brain, and having some reason for being afraid of his fellow-men, he realized the danger he had before overlooked, Foxy Fred realized it even more keenly. He bad marked Chub’s varying moods, and the cun- ning expression of his face, and was so sure that the crook intended some treachery that he watched him. Cbub had taken a cross-street, but the Keener stood on the corner and was able to watch without trouble. The patrolman was receding slowly, and Chub followed with such rapid steps that he soon overtook the former. He accosted him, pointing back, and both looked whence the crook had come, Fred caught ov to the situation and, hasten- ing to the young man’s side, spoke quickly: “Say, mister, you’d better hustle away from here instanter!” S “ Why ” **?Cause Chub has collared a cop, an’ ef signs ain’t all out o’ plum, he’s goin ter tow him down bere ter arrest you!” - The wretched stranger turned pale. He was prepared to credit any treacherous act on Chub’s part, and he confusedly exclaimed: ‘*Great heavens! what am I to do?” “Do? You'llrun like a Guttenburg twonty- ter-one ‘shot.’ You ain’t much ’count on the bettin’, but et all depends on yer legs. Come with me; [ll be jockey, an’ I’m liable ter git ve ter the wire before the favorites git the dust out o’ their eyes, See?” The enterprising Keener already bad bis new fricnd under way, and his brisk manner*nade due impression upon the latter, Not much time was allowed them, but by stepping lively they turned a corner in safety, and tbheu Fred coun- ducted his charge along until the danger of ar- rest seemed over. “ Mister,” he then announced, ‘‘you’re all bunk.” **Bless you, boy; bless you! me, and I am very grateful.” ‘**} don’t know why I aid it,” “cc Eh ? ‘« How do I know but you’re a crook?” The man was silent, ‘““They wanted ter pull ye in, an’ I know from your way that you’s afeerd of it. Here I’ve been an’ bucked ag’in’ the law, au’ all fer a man I don’t know from Adam, Why, you may be Cain, fer all 1 kin tell.” “ Boy, you bave made no mistake, I aw a most miserable and unbappy wretch, but I am not all bad, If I bave erred it was because others led me into crime.” **Cbub an’ Perce Berthrong?” ‘** What do you know of them?” “Enough so I ain’t their friend. I don’t b’lieve you be, an’ they certainly ain’t your friends. See? Ef you don’t, go back an’ show yer face ter the copper thet Chub tried ter set on yer, Bad egg, Chub is; never seen a meaner game than he tried ter play on you.” ‘‘ Every one is against me!” You've saved
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10 Foxy Fred, the Keener. ** Don’t git down-hearted, mister; a good back- bone is more than gold an’ silver. Whar’s yer room?” *‘ Over yonder.” ‘*Go in there before you git inter trouble.” ‘Phe advice is wise; I ought not to have come out at all, I will go in, if you'll go with me, The solitude is almost unbearable.” The Keaner thought be was interested in every one who was hated by Bertbrong and his party, so he did not refuse the invitation. The man’s room proved to be one of small dimensions, and poorly furnished. Oace inside he motioned Fred to a chair, and then himself sat down and began to smoke, ‘* Wot’s yer name?” the boy asked, ‘Dan Gray.” ** You don’t say it as if you’ve sailed under it long,” quoth Frederick, shrewdly, ‘‘ but let that pass. Mister, w’ot’s your trouble, anyhow?” “Don’t ask me. Bebold in me a man who has gone to the dogs; who bas yielded to tempta- tion, and done that which has ruined bis best of friends; and whose folly and ovil courses have made him a fugitive from justice,” ‘*You put it pretty strong, mister, but I can prescribe no cure unless I kin know the canker that’s a-gnawin’ of ye. Ses?” ‘*T can tell nothing.” Dan Gray did not tell anything, but he clung to Fred tenaciously as a break to the solitudo, and kept him aslong as he would stay. The Keener did not waste the time. Dan was seven years his senior, but he became the counselor in this hour, and gave advice which would havo done credit to a far older head. He found it hard to belieye that Dan bad done anything very bad, and was interested in seeing Chub’s wishes frustrated, Idle as the Keener seemed, be was not wholly occupied with doing nothing. _ On the table between them was a jumble of different arti- cles, and Fred noticed among them, a newspa- per-clippiong. This would scarcely bave drawn more than passing attention had he not no- ticed that, at one point a hole was visible in the clipping, as if two or three words had been cut out. This was so significant that he determined to read the note, and he maneuvered to do this without Dan Gray having knowledgs of it, He gradually worked the clipping around in front of him, all the while talking innocently to Dan, until, at last, he had it where he wanted it, Then he read it, and what he read proved to be at once surprising, interesting aud perplex- ing. CHAPTER XIII. ON ETERNITY'S BRINK. THE clipping read as follows: “Itis reported that ————, agent’s bookkeeper for Mr. Dugald Forryster, has gone wrong. It is known th:t he has been keeping fast company, and he has now disappeared. The disappearance of a certain sum of money at the same time has led to a partial examination of the books, and it has been found that he falsified the records in order to cover up the deficit, probably not intending, then, to flee, himself. It is believed that further examination will reveal other evidences of pecula- tion.” Significant, indeed, was this note, and Foxy Fred would bave been dull had be not suspected, at once, that the dishonest bookkeeper was be- fore him, No doubt the words cut out bad been the name of the absconder, Another name occurred there, and the Keener could not belp woudering to see this case, like another, point to Dugald Forryster, The latter seemed to be in hard luck, How much bis agent's bookkeeper had taken nobody yet knew, but Fred did not doubt that it was in his peer to earn a reward by making known what e knew. Obeying a sudden impulse be tossed the clip- ping over to bis compaiion, ‘Reads well, don’t it, mister?” Dav Gray looked, and then his face paled. ‘Where did you get this?” “Right here on your table,” * Did I leave it—” a stopped short, and the Keener dryly re- plied: “T reckon you did, mister, Foolish of you, wasn’t it! Dead give away, by crickey!” “*' You know my secret; you know all, and it’s in your power to ruin me. One word to the police, and I go to Sing Sing, never again to see the open world in many years. Guilty? Yes;I am guilty—a miserable, ungrateful wretch, Ruin me, if you will!” ! Dan Gray had grown violent, He swung bis | rr cone og it will be more pleasant than in ; the cars | - arms about, and his voice rose to a dangerous pitch, He had lost all composure, and evidently hated himself more than any oue else could hate him, Foxy Fred shook bis head, He’ felt tbat he ought to notify the police, but was reluctant to look upon Dan as a criminal. ; ‘* Did ye reelly take the money?” be asked, “ Yes,” “Why?” “Why? Becanse the devil tempted me, and the devil’s name is Percy Berthrovg. I was young and green; he was old in sin, e made me admire bim, and then led me on tocrime. I took the money so I could dress as he dressed, and spend money as freely as he!” It was the oid story, and it did not need the Keener’s enmity against Berthrong to stir bis sympathies, Dan Gray, disadvantageously as he had first appeared to Fred, kad not a bad face. It was a comely face, and manly; and his young companion found it hard to believe be was as bad as his own confesslon would seem to prove him, Te realized that the dazzing show Berthrong made, and his superior age, would naturally givo him much influence over a boy of twenty, or twenty-one, ** Dan’l,” spoke the Keener, ‘‘ can’t you pay up that squandered cash?” “ No.” ** W’ot're ye gwine ter do?” ‘* Serve time,” Fred shook bis head and meditated. He could not step in and pay the bill, nor did he know any one else who would. Yet, whatever might be his duty, be was determined not to go to the police. Others might betray this unhappy wretch, but be lacked the beart to doit, He made this plain in few words, and then proceeded to give some advice. It was not easy in this case, but he bad a way of getting at mat- ters very unusual to one of his years, and he made the most of the situation, } He lingered with Dan until noon, and then went home for dinner. There he found a note from Mrs, Redburn, which invited him to call on her at eight o’clock that evening. Shortly after, he went out and, by chance, bappened on Ches Lynn, His ally was eager to tell something. ‘*Here’s a paper I found in the street,” he said, ‘See if you can make anytbing out of it, You'll find a familiar name in it, and it may be of interest,” The Keener read as follows: “Srr:—Am always at home after 11:00 Pp. m., but never before. No. — South street, Come any even- ing. J. P. JonzEs, “To C, E. Jorpan, Esq.” es ener quoth the Keener, ‘*'where’d you git this? “Tn the street, as I said; over near where you seid your Aunt Jane lived.” **Crickey! that’s within three blocks o’ where our C, E, Jordan was swatted with the sandbag. Must be the same gent, especially as this paper js soiled an’ grimy, as ef it’s been tramplin’ *round the streets fer a day or two, Wal, now, | this is interestin’, fer J. P. Jones may be able ter tell us where Jordan’s home base is, Guess itll pay me ter drop around an’ see him this eve, In the mean while, le’s take a cruise.” They took a ‘‘cruise” accordingly, and wan- dered around where Bertbrong and his allies were likely to be, but saw none of them. At five o’clock Ches said be had an engage- ment, and the Keener put in some further time alone, but did not forget Mrs. Redburn, At the specified hour he called upon ber, ‘*T want you to go to Brooklyn with me,” she explained. ‘Allright. W’ot’s up?” “‘T think I have clew to a woman I want to find, and am going there tosee. I don’t care to be out late without a protector.” ‘“*Mum, you'll be perfeckly safe with me,” Fred answered, with dignity. .‘* Them Brooklyn- ites ain’t so ’way-up in good sassiety as New Yorkers, but one New York feller kin lick three Brooklynites, I'll take good keer of you.” The Keener smiled humorously at his own conceit, and Mrs. Redburn made ready for the journey. Then they left the house, proceeded down-town, crossed the Hast River Bridge, and went to a house on Henry street. Whatever her business was, it was not successful, The person she wished to see was not in, and had not been seen for several days, A boarder, there, she had gone and left no word. The inquirers retraced their steps with Mrs, Redburn in a meditative mood, On arriving at the Bridge, she said: ‘**Let us walk across, The Keener saw that he had ample time to get to South street, and they started. On the Brooklyn incline they found notbing of more in- terest than the moon, but, shortly after passing the eastern tower, Fred found something else to say: ““There’s one female woman out all alone, She don’t seem so interested in tbe heavenly orbs as in the river, Not much good ter look down that pokerish hole at night, I should say.” ** Her attitude is one of deep dejection.” **Can’t be she’s meditatin’ a jump ter rival Steve Brodie, kin it?” Mrs, Redburn did not answer, and, as they approached, both continued to gaze at the woman, who was standing at the side of the promenade and leaning over the space where, far below, the lordly East River’s water rolled. There was something peculiar in ber manner; she was not like an idle sight-seer or a dream- er; and they kept watch of her without kuowing why. Suddenly she started, as if from deep thought, but her next movement was startling. She caught hold of tbe support above and be- gan to draw herself up to the top of the guard- tail, This done, she poised herself on top, **Crickey! she’s goin’ ter jump off!” The words escaped Foxy Fred’s lips, and then Mrs. Redburn aroused from the cold chill which had settled upon her when the unknown’s pur- pose became apparent. ** Save her!” she gasped. ‘* Quick!” The Keener dashed forward, He was too wise to call to the woman, for any one bent on suicide would only hasten their movements if they saw| their plans in danger. His feet fell lightly, and \ she continued to gaze down like one fascinated, | What strange power had that awful depth over her troubled brain? ‘* May Heaven preserve ber!” murmured Mrs,’ Redburn, ‘* Fred!—will he be in time?” It was a matter of doubt, for, once more, thé’ woman stirred. She released her hold above and stood without other support than for her feet, Then she bent forward for the fatal leap. CHAPTER XIV. IN DANGEROUS COMPANY, ** CoME in out.o’ the wet!” Foxy Fred spoke the words coolly. A moment before he had seized the unknown woman just in time to prevent her wild leap, The sharp back- ward pull be had given had done more than to check her fall; it pulled her back to the prom- enade, and Fred barely escaped falling under her weight. As it was he kept his footing, and then follow- ed bis nonchalant speech. He had narrowly saved her from death, and the moment was thrilling, but nothing worried him. The woman tried to tear herself away, * Let me go!” she cried, ‘* Where?” “To death!” “Not any, mum; you can’t take no swim here. Besides, life is too valuable ter fling away—” ** Mine is not!” ‘*Then you reelly wanted ter jump?” ‘*T did; I wanted to end my miserable life; to seek oblivion, O4! why did you stop me? Let me go; let me go!” ‘“* Mum, you may as wal take it easy. I ain’t goin’ ter allow no sech work as this. I’m a sort o’ special perleeceman, an’ bound ter prevent it. Die? Great Cesar, why should ye, when the folks who hev ter die would give their last dollar ter live?” “Tréir lives are not barren, desolate, hope- les3, like mine, You are cruel to stop me!” ‘* See here! ain’t I met you before?” Foxy Fred asked the question suddenly, for he believed he had discovered something familiar about her, She vividly recalled the vailed wo- man be had metat night near Berthrong’s house, who bad claimed the name of Meg Mason, but who, he had since been led to believe, had no right tothe name, .- ‘*T know not; I care not,” she returned, im- patiently, ‘* Never called yerself Meg Mason, did ye?” Now, she looked at the questioner more atten- tively, “Tf [ did, it isn’t my name,” she answered, ‘*! kin believe that, but you must hev a name of some sort, W’ot is it?” **T decline to say.” She Igoked toward the point from which she had tried to jump, but the Keener shook his The moon is shining ; bead, nd, ——emet
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} *“ Keep yer eyes on me. We can’t hev no sech goin’s on as that, Et’s ag’inst the law ter com- mit suicide, an’ J am down on it, too; can’t al- jow any sech work, Why, we may bev our o> Se troubies ter wear on us, but this is a glorious ee old world, an’ the finest spot on earth lays right along this river. Why any one lucky enough ter live in New York should want ter commit sech a desp’rit deed I can’t see,” Mrs. Redburn had been silent, but she now came close to the would-be suicide. a ‘* Madam,” she spoke, in a low, earnest voice, : ““T beg that you will listen to our well-meant advice, I, too, have seen trouble, and I know how hard some crosses are to bear, but let us not forget that we owe a duty to ourselves, While there is life, there’s hope, Let us not rashly take the life confided to our keeping by Fes One who knows when to take it.” = The stranger was silent. There was much of persuasion and sympathy in Mrs, Redburn’s voice, and it appealed to her strongly. She stood in silence, looking down. Mrs. Redburn saw she bad made an impression and renewed her efforts, being the more anxious because she Bs siw by the unknown’s face that she was intelli- iz gent and far from being of a vicious walk in life, Indeed, it was a good face, full of honesty, and, obviously, such a person was well worth saving. Foxy Fred felt that he had better keep silent, Bis then, and he stood back and let Mrs, Redburn < do all the talking. . She won a victory. ‘ Pre The stranger was moved es and persuaded, and fioally began to weep. The E suicidal fever was gone, and in one breath she thanked her new friend and promised not to re- peat her rash attempt. ‘* Where do you live?” Mrs, Redburn asked, Tn New York,” ae ** And your name?” *‘T cannot tell that; I can tell no more, now. I want time to think, When I have decided A what todo you may hear from me again—if you S will give your own name and adiress,” **I will do so, gladly, and if I can help you, I will. Come to me freely, I should be glad to take you along, now, but if you say otherwise, your every wish sball be respected; only hear this in mind: you must not meditate suicide again.” Again the unknown promised, and, presently, all three walked toward New York. She acted quite naturally, and there seemed good reason to believe she would keep ber word, but nothing could make her more confidential. Once across they went to City Hail Park, where they separ- ated. The unknown went first, moving toward Broad way. as “Quite @ woman, she is,” remarked the onl Keener, 5 ‘*T wish we knew more of her.” i ‘“* We'll bev ter call her the Vailed Wqman, eS - far she wore a vail when I first see her,” ee He explained how he had met ler near Ber- ie throng’s boarding-house, and they spent some & time in wondering how she had happened to : ; That it was ouly a sudden thought was shown by the fact claim the name of Meg Mason, q that she now declared she had noright to it. : ““Sbe knows Meg, of course,” added Fred, Be 23 ‘‘an’ she knows Perce Berthrong. Well, I an should say she does; she give him a character, bee that night, that would hev made him blink ef he had heerd the settin’-out.” “ne “The man’s life has been one of utter crime, . ae and he has lived by wronging other people =), ae * outof money. It is our lot to meet several of Ss his victims. _How many more there are, Provi- ee 5 dence only knows, It is not likely that Ber- ig throng could count them.” “ d a “ Well, mum, I'll bev ter let you go home alone, I guess, fer I hev a bit o’ biz ter trans- act down this way, an, the hour fer operations is at band. S’pose you'll excuse me?” a ‘* Certainly, if you wisb, Call on me to-mor- ee. ~ row,” A. Mrs, Redburn went her way, and the Keener cc Se started for South street, By alamp he paused 2 ae and re-read the note which was taking bim on nae, ae the trip: a “Sm:—Am always at home after 11:00 p.m, but a: never before. No, —— South street. Come any { 4S evening. P. Jones.” a =a * To C. E. Jorpan, Esq.” z “All right, J, P. Jones,” Fred commented. a “Tain’t C. E, Jordan, Esquire, but V’ll act fer him, I want ter know who you be, an’ w’at you know about Jordan,” Resuming his way, he finally reached the place indicated. It was an old, weather-beaten house, but it looked as well as most of its neighbors, No light was visible, and be began to have doubts of bis ability to see any one that nigbt, ee SE tae SSS Foxy Fred, the Keener. but the fact that he was a few minutes ahead of time caused him to stand by the door and wait. A few moments passed, and then a man came along the street with slow and heavy steps. He was a big, muscular man, and might have passed for a stevedore, as far as appearances went, He paused by the house and began to fit a key to the lock, ‘* Mister,” spoke the Keener, ‘‘ d’ye know any- body of the name of Jones?” “T know wyself.” “ Be you J. P. Jones?” “That’s me—Jobn Philomaleior_ Jones,” “Then you're the gent I want ter orate to, ef you’ll allow me ter walk inter yer parlor.” ** Come on!” J. P. Jones answered carelessly, and the Keener followed him into the hotse. The leader went up one flight, entered a room, lighted the as and told Fred to sit down, The room was arge, but poorly furnished. Jones brought a hottle of beer out of a cupboard, drank a part of it, and then directed: * Fire abead, youngster!” ‘Mr, Jones, do you know a man named Jor- dan?” ‘* Jordan! Jordan! The name seems a bit familiar. Who is he?” ‘*That’s what I want ter know. I hev a note which you wrote ter him. Et invited him ter call here any night after eleven o'clock.” You ain’t Jordan?” ** Of course not; ef I wuzI should know who Jordan is, wouldn’t I? i’ve come fer inferma- tion, ye see, Id give you some, but I’m all in the dark,” During this conversation Jones had been busy with his beer and a light lunch he had set out, and the Keener was not able to decide whether his questions really had made any impression on hiscompanion. The latter seemed innocent, avd had evinced no surprise. **How’d you know anything about Jordan?” he asked, through a mouthbfol of bread, ““Pve got an uncle o’ that name,” Foxy Fred explained, glibly, ‘*‘ We ain’t beered from bim in ten years, an’ we thought, when I found the note, mebbe he was back ter New York. Chris- topber Eli Jcrdan, is his name,” ** Let me see the note.” ‘*T left it ter home,” ‘* Gammon!” J. P. Joues answered shortly, and banged his beer-bottle down on the table viciously. Then he added: a “Youre giving mé a pure fake! What's up, anyhow? No more lies, boy. Speak the truth, for Pm dead onto you, and itll go bard with you if you can’t prove yerself straight!” CHAPTER XV. CREEPING ON THE PREY, THE Keener assumed an innocent air, “Say, boss, you’re all wrong,” he began, but again J. P, Jones banged the table with the beer- bottle, “You're a spy!” he declared, ** Come off!” ** You can’t foolme! You may havean uncle, or a hundred uncles, but when you say you came bere on any such errand as you claim, you lie! Well, to be frank, I know whoC. E, Jordan is, So do you, What do you want?” Boiling his words down thus, Jones leaned for- ward over the table and looked Fred full in the eyes. He was not an evil-looking man. His face would have been pronounced good by many. He was evidently poor, and a laborer, but did not appear like ore who would be so downcast by poverty as to become dishonest, The Keener saw he bad got io trust him or not get any in- formation. ‘*“Mr, Jones, are you a square man?’ he asked. ‘Try me and see,” “That’s wot I’m goin’ terdo, I ain’t got any story ter tell, but ef you want ter stand shoulder ter shoulder with right an’ justice, now’s yer time.” ** Who sent yon here?” **Nobody; I came myself.” ** You can’t make anybody believe that, for it goes contrary to common sense, as a spy.” ‘* What is there here ter spy on?” ‘It has been suspected from the start that there was a motive for not putfing Jordan’s as- sault in the nowsp pers, and that the police were working on thesly. Iknowit, now. You are ; here asa sneak, bnt you'll fidd it harder to get out than to getio!” — You came here 11 The expression on the-~ speaker’s face had changed, and he now looked threatening and vicious, ““You’re ’way off!” the Keener declared. ‘““['m notaspy fer the police, nor nobody else, an’ T came here on my own book. Nobody seut me, ‘*Those who are the most interested sball sit on your case, You'll stay right here until I send for them.” ‘© Who are they?” ‘ ** Fool! Do you think I would tell?” Fred made an earnest effort to convince bis companion, at the same time avoiding all show of fear or uneasiness, but Jones was firm. He sat down and wrote a note, and then rapped on the ceiling until he brought dowh a rumple- haired, sleepy-looking man, To him he gave the note, bidding bim make all possible haste, and the messenger disappeared. During this period of time Foxy Fred was tempted to make a dash for liberty, but Jones watched narrowly, and the Keener saw no hope of being able to pass sucl: a muscular person. The situation appeared serious, bo had been sent for Fred did not know, but, after bear- ing Tones’s own words, he felt that the evidence was altogether too strong, that Jones was a tool for Percy Berthrong, and that the arch-plotter was the one wanted to sit in judgment on him. Not a pleasant outlook, certainly. Jones resumed his seat, and the waiting be- an. a You needn’t be looking for a hole to dodge out of, for you can’t do it,” the captor declared, noticing the drift of the Keener’s ideas, The Jatter renewed his efforts to persuade Jones, but met with utter failure, and there be was obliged to sit in hopeless inactivity. It was a long Seiay which followed, but Fred would gladiy have beard that the messenger must go as far as Chicago for those be was after. Anon the prisoner feigned sleep. He rested bis elbows on the table and his head on his bands, and in this position relapsed into silence, Jones bad smoked as long as hecould with comfort, and be now found the delay tiresome, He yawned, tried various positions, and un- doubtedly felt a good deal more like sleeping than Fred did, Lut his eyes remained open and his manner so alert that it promised nothing. Foxy Fred did not fail to keep close watch of everything, and, finally, he became aware that the door was slightly ajar. Asthis might have been due toa defective catch he would have given it no especial attention, but, while he looked, something else caught bis notice, A buman face appeared in the opening. Even this might not indicate anything in par- ticular, for the house doubtless had otber oceu- pants, but asthe lapse of a few seconds showed that some one was reconnoitering secretly, he be- came more interested, W bo was there? A trifle wider grew the opening, and the face became more distinct. A jaunty cap surmount- ed the bead, and the cap locked strangely famil- iar. So did the face, now. The Keener’s blood began to flow more quickly. The prowlerwas Chester Lynn! Rarely bad Fred been more surprised. His ally seemed to bave a faculty for oppearing when most wanted, but that he should there as almost too agreeable to be true, But what did it portend to bim? A friend was near, but he was young. What would be do? Whatcould he do against burly J. P. Jones? Softly Ches pushed the door furtber back. Luck was strikingly with bim that no sound be- trayed the act, Then the prowler stepped fully into the room, In bis hand beheld a blanket, and bis gaze was fixed intently upon Jones, The latter remained motionless, almost doz- ing. His mind was evidently on other sub- jects, and wonderin; as one’s mind will at the verge of the lan« of sleep. He bad no reason to expect trouble, and be did not once look around, The Keener looked through his fingers, and his eyes were very bright. Oue great ques- tion was in bis mind, H4w much longer would Jones remain uncon- scious of things bebind his shock head? Cbes Lynn’s plan now became apparent. He bad carried the blanket unfolded, but he spread it out more and balanced it on both hands, Holding it well forward he crept upon Jones like a cat. Nearer, nearer be came; so near hecould have © reached out and touched the captor, ee Foxy Fred poised bimself for action. Suddenly Ches moved, Throwing his bands — forward he cast the blanket over Jones's head, |and then wrapped botb his arms around the —
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12 Foxy Fred, the Keener. blindfolded man’s neck. His voice sounded breathlessly. ‘* Run, Fred; run!” The Keener had leaped to his feet. He saw Jones: struggling in the snare, and it was no mean one. Tbe blanket was of the kind called *¢+double,” and, when he tried to throw it off, the long, loose ends were in his si | and im- peded the free use of his hands, Indeed, he seemed to get more and more tangled up in it, and Cues held fast, ‘“Run!” he repeated. ‘Get the key out of the door and be ready to lock it on the other side! The plan was clear and distinct, and Fred did not fail to act upon it, He hurried across the floor and made ready to do his share, and then called to Ches, The latter released his hold and dashed toward the door. Jones had just forced one arm out of the blanket when his insnarer passed the threshold, . The Keener flung the door to and turned the ey. “ Hoop-la!” he ejaculated, fast as a mouse in a trap.” ‘‘ Away!” Ches replied. ‘‘ Every moment is of the most vital importance; sombody else may show up to block our game, and we can’t com- pete with those burly men.” “ Allright, my hearty. Here we go!” Greatly exbilarated, the Keener followed Ches to the top of the stairs, but, just as they reach- ed that point, the street-door opened and two men entered, Ches gasped, rather than spoke, the note of alarm: “ Percy Berthrong!” Sure enough! The arch-plotter was there, and io their path of retreat. CHAPTER XVI. HELD UP! THERE was no over-estimating the impor- tance of the calamity which had occurred. A few seconds more and the boys would have been on the street, where their chances would have been of the best, but reach there now they could not. The most resolute dash for liberty would not take them past Berthrong and his companion, As they paused in dismay they heard Jones rattle the door behind them, They would soon have the whole gang after them. The men be- low began to ascend, Thus far they bad not seen the boys, but as Jones thumped loudly on the door, discovery came, Berthrong looked up. ‘Ts that the kid?” he asked, The’light was dim in the hall, and he evidently did not recognize Foxy Fred, but the latter bad no intention of remaining to meet him, ‘* Up the other stairs!’ the Keener whispered to Ches, and they turned and dashed up in haste, They hoped to find some way of escape there, but brief search showed that they were then on the upper floor, and they could see no way of reaching the roof. If any such place was there, the light was not bright enough to show it. Jones evidently was determined not to remain locked in, and the door was suddenly shivered by a@ tremendous blow from the table, used as a battering-ram, Then his head appeared at the opening. He saw Berthrong, and exclaimed: “The kid has got away!” ‘*No; be’s on the floor above.” “Hal Then, by the fiends! we’ve got him, He can’t get out, unless he jumps from the win- dow, and that’s sure death, Up and at him!” The speaker worked his way through the bat- tered door, and the boys then had three men against them. ‘“*Ches,’ remarked the Keener, ‘I bate ter confess it, but I do believe our name is Mud, We might go into one o’ these rooms an’ lock the door, but w’ot good would it do us?” Young Lynn did not reply, and at that mo- ment Jones started up the stairs, two steps at a time. He was smarting from-his recept rough experience, and bound to have prompt revenge, Fred bad a vague, wild idea of trying to fling him down the stairs, but what actually occurred was @ surprise to all. Cbes thrust bis hand forward over the rail and spoke ove word; Stop!" Jones stopped, He was looking into the muzzle of a revolver, “Try to advance one step further and you are a dead man!’ Lynn added, in an unfaltering voice, Jones preferred to. retreat a step, and then, awed into silence, he gazed at the weapon which could wipe bim off from the face of the earth by ope touch of its owner's finger. Tie revo!ver ‘We've got him did not waver. The youth’s nerves seemed to be of steel, and Jones felt that he would invite bis own fate by advancing. As Ches did not begin hostilities, the crook rallied somewhat, “Pot down that gun!” he ordered. “ You woulda’t be so mad as to fire, anyhow.” : ‘*T tell you in all truth that if you ff to come near us I will shoot you!” was the steady reply. “Do you know what your fate would be if you did?” “I know whatit would be if I did not,” ‘““Why, you little hop-o’-my-thumb! do you really mean to try and bluff us?’ “There’s no bluff about it; what I say and mean is, if you try to attack us I will shoot ou!” ‘‘ Three-an’-a-tiger fer my pard!” cried the Keener, dancing in high glee. Ches had before shown nerve, but there was something about him now—an utter absence of fear, and the presence of steady resolution— which surprised Fred as much as anybody else, Berthrong and the other man were close be- hind Jones, and the leader now found his voice: ‘* As I expected; it’s that kid who has done us up so handsumely before, I mean the one who spoke last, but the little demon with the revol- ver seems as bad as the other. Hang it! can’t we get at them?” “You can try.” ‘‘ But I don’t banker for lead.” “ Nor 1.” “Isnt there any other way to get at them?” “ No,” The triv stood and gazed in silence, Each one felt that if he had his hands on the boys he could crush both at once, figuratively speaking, but that made the matter all the worse, It .was hard to be “held up” by such striplings, Ches, however, held the fort. If he had felt any doubts at the start, his courage must have in- creased, for noone could deny that he had them helpless, The only troublesome feature was that he and Fred were equally helpless—they could not leave the house, Berthrong and the third man retreated some- what and consulted, but all of his wisdom was not sufficient toshow the way out of the dilem- ma, A revolver makes the weak equal to the helpless, and as for a second revolver, in this case, they did not care to risk any shooting by trying to hit Ches before he could bit them, Presently they called Jones down, and the three whispered for some time, After this, the third man went down the lower flight of stairs and out of the house, ° ‘* Mischief afoot!” quoth the Keener, “What is it?” Ches returned. *] only wish I knew. Them pirates hev got some wrinkle in their heads, an’ I’m afeerd we'll see the result of it later on.” He glanced up at the roof, ‘“‘Tney said there was no way fer us ter git out,” he added, ‘but it may hev been a bluff Et wouldn’t surprise me ter see them come sailin in like carrion crows after juicy white lambs,” ‘* Tf there’s an opening, we must be the ones to take advantage of it.” “« Jest my notion, an’ ef you'll keep guard, I’! investigate. Must be some matches in one of the rooms, an’ I’ll light up the old ark asif fer a weddin’. Mebbe I kin spot a copper on the beat, too. It was the work of only a short time to make the lights, but they did not show any way of es- cape. There was no opening to the roof, and no fire-escape, though the windows, front and rear, had small iron balconies, The Keener bad a vague idea that, if there was any way to keep the enemy at bay and secure due time, they couid drop from one of these balconies to another, but it was not likely that Berthrong and bis men would stand idle while any such plan was being put into effect. No policeman was to be seen, Ches suddenly called to his ally: ‘* Wred, some one is on the roof!” ** How dye know?” ‘‘T heard them there, Listen!” The Keener obeyed. There was a creakivg sound over their heads, as if the dilapidated roof was springing under the footsteps of one or more rsons, ‘* By crickey! they are up there!” Foxy Fred agreed, ** What's their plan?” ‘‘ That’s just it—w’ot ia it? J can’t find no hole in the roof, present or past; an’ they can’t fly in at the winder like birds, ef they be crows. Holl up, Ches; bold up! Kin et be they’re goin’ ter git at us by means o’ the balconies? They kin it a rope an’ lower theirselves, an’ then they'll ev usfoul. By crickey! tbat’s a corker!” ’ 4 Great anxiety was pictured on the boys’ faces, and Ches suddenly extended one hand, ** Look !” he exclaimed, The Keener obeyed. A man was standing on the rear balcony, peering in at the window! CHAPTER XVII. FIGHTING THEIR WAY. Foxy Frep was startled. The dan was even closer than he bad anticipated, and it was no small matter to be between two fires, He recognized Bertbrong’s unknown ally in the maa on the balcony, and clearly saw that only bold action would save them, Already the man’s hand was on the sash as he proceeded to raise it, While moving around Fred bad found a dilapi- dated broom, and the handle thereof he bad stripped clean, He had felt a vague impression that he might have use for this, and the use bad come quickly, He ran to the window, and the fellow on the balcony saw the broomstick swung up as a club, He had moved the sash enough to make a small opening, and thrcugh this the Keener sent the warning: “Ef you try ter come in, I'll knock you off the balcony!” Tbe man stood likea statue, If the boy was in danger, so was he, The house was old and the balcony none too strong. It was very small, too, and he had to balance himself carefully. Even more vividly than the Keener he realized that a very sligbt thing would send him bead- long to the stone flagging of the back yard, and that meant death, He stood and stared at Fred in silence, ‘You ain’t wanted here,” added the latter, with an increase of courage. ‘* Youkin go back where you ome from, and you can’t go too quick, Hustle!” ‘Say, you wouldn’t bit me?” ‘“*T will, sure, ef you try ter come in,” ‘‘Now, see hefe; you’re young, an’ you don’t want ter do no desperit deed—” “Gammon! L[ guess I’ve a right ter protect my own life, »n’ I mean ter doit. Ef you persist in tryin’ ter do me up you must take the consequences. Now, you keep back, or there'll be the worst kind of a racket.” The man glared his wrath, but he was un- able to do more. It was hard to be brougbt to bay by one so young and small, but he could not be oblivious to the quiet determination in Fred’s voice. Little as be valued the latter’s life and liberty, his own welfare was of great importance to him, He did not dare to take any risks, There was a Jull, during which both did some thinking, Then the Keener spoke again: ** Hustle back where you came from!” His enemy looked up. He had fastened a rope to the chimney and slid down, but it was not so easy to go up, short as the distance was, Fred made a threatening motion with the club, and the fellow grasped the rope, He could not see any use of remaining on the balcony, ex- posed to the constant danger of a fall, and ke was willing to retreat. He began raising bimself, and, after a brief struggle regained his former position, One more danger was overcome, but the de- fenders knew not in what way the next attack would come. The last attempt, however, bad given the Keener an idea, aud tbe more he thought of it, the more be was determined to make a bold ¢ffort, “Ches,” be spoke, ‘‘ why can’t we work the rope racket, too?” *« Where is the rope?” “Tn a bed, in there, The bed is one of the old-fastioned sort, made before springs, an’ the mattress lies on a cord which is stretched from piece ter piece o’ the frame. I found that out when I was haulin’ the broom from under the bed, where I bappened ter see it. Now, why can’t 1 git that rope, an’ we go down the front balconies ter the street?” ** Get it, quick!” Fred needed no more encouragement, and he hastened away. Whether they would Le able to make good their retreat was a question, but there was nothing like trying. If they remained where they were they must sooner or later fall victims to some scheme on the part of the enemy. He secured the rope #8 soon as possible, but as he re-entered the ball, Ches gave the warning: ‘* All three men are again down below, and they seem to be maturing scme plan,” “Bf they'll give us a bit o’ time we will let them plan an’ be banged, Stand firm, com- rade!” The Keener raised the front window and at- tached the rope firmly to the upper balcony. It we eg a ee
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A a ee SR ———— ee oo me ae a eg Foxy Fred, the Keener. 13 looked like an easy task to slide down, checking speed at the intervening balcony, and he return- ed to Ches in high spirits, ‘* You go first, an keep yer wits well about yer. Don’t try ter be too fast, but slide slow and sure; you can’t fail ef you want ter. I'll stan’ guard an’ give ~ time ter go down, but don’t be too slow. ben I get under way I shall be a ragin’ cyclone, an’ go down like a shot. They may see I’m gone the minute I dis- appear, an’ they could make it hot fer me, See?” o Yes.” Ches did not answer with his usual coolness, and when he turned the revolver over to his friend and turned away, his expression was un- usually serious. ‘* He don’t like the idee of slidin’ down, an’ I don’t know ez I blame him,” the Keener thought. Ches was soon out of the wiudow, and that was the last his ally could see of him, It was an anxious moment for the guard, The men be- low hardly ever looked up, seeming to feel that there was no escape for the boys, but this confi- dence on their part gave Fred some doubt of its being sincere. They did not appear to notice, either, that Fred bad taken Chester’s place. The Keener tried to measure time with judg- ment, and, when he thought Ches had reached the sidewalk, he thrust the revolver into his pocket and ran lightly to the window, He looked down. hes bad come to a stop on the lower balcony, and seemed afraid to go fur- ther, His ally grasped the rope and went down like a gymnast. Disdaining the aid of anything by the way he was soon by young Lynn’s side, ‘The door is open!” then whispered the latter. , ‘So much the more need of haste. Take the last slide!” The order was prumptly obeyed, but the agile Keener did not wait to see his predecessor on the sidewalk. He followed sharply, and drop- ped almost assoon as Chester, Neither dropped any too soon, As they recovered their balance they looked toward the door, and there stood Percy Ber- throng. A more amazed man than the sport it would have been hard to find. Hejstared at them as if he saw a ghost. ‘* Malediction! bere they are!” he finally gasped. ‘* Hustle!” Foxy Fred ordered, No further word was needed, and the allies dashed up the street at full speed, Every sec- ond counted, and they did not venture to look around, but in a short time the sound of foot- steps showed that they were pursued, ‘* We shall be caught!” breathed, rather than spoke, Chester. “Not for Hannah! We're all hunk. How long d’ye s’pose they kip chage us in the streets of New York? A copper wif soon take a hand in the game, an’ then their name will be Mud, Git a wiggle on, pard!” They sped around a corner, and saw a patrol- man near the end of the block. He was going slowly, with his back toward them, and had not thus far seen or heard them. Berthrong was not far behind, but when he reached the corner, he, too, saw the patrolman. The sight brought bim toa stop, He dared not invite a contest with a blue-coat for a judge, and the pursuit ended there, Foxy Fred playfully punched Ches in the ribs. ‘* Were still in it, old chap! Moderate yer speed, fer we ain’t in an atom o’ danger now, ay, but ain't we had a pile o’ fun?” CHAPTER XVIII. THE PROWLERS OF THE STREET, MEETING with no further adventures, Fred and Chester continued on together until the lat- ter’s home wasreached, There they separated, and the Keener went away alone. He was near where Dan Gray lived, and, late as it was, he ked around to the house to see if there was a4 sign of that young man, is room was dark, and nothing was to be seen Resuming his way, Fred turned his face to- ward home, but he was aot destined to reach there without an experience of interest. His course was past the residence of Mrs, Redburn, and when he neared the house he naturally hase that way. He saw that a light was urning there, though the lowered shades pre- vented any view of the interior. Another thing he noticed. Two men were lurking on the opposite side of the street, and he became alert at once, when he recognized Chub Mason and be ar He stepped into a doorway, and remained silent, but watchful, —_——— ee EEEEeEEEEEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeEeSESeE———— + Chub and Eph conferred, and the former con- sulted his watch. Then both walked toward the Keener, who, having no chance to get out of the way, pressed as far back as possible. The crooks were talking too busily to look his way. ‘* Berthrong will be in a rage ef we don’t nab her to-night,” remarked Eph, ‘* Never fear; we'll have her before three o'clock, but it would be madness ter go in now, The light shows she ain’t gone ter bed, an’ we’ve got ter take her by surprise, sure, She'll be asleep in a little while, though, an’ then we’ll go in—” Foxy Fred beard no more, for they had re- cede.i too far, but there had been enough to arouse all of his interest. Plainly, their words referred to Mrs, Redburn, and it was their in- tention to abduct her. ‘Guess they’ve got on ter the fack that I’m under her pay,” soliloquized the Keener, “ but ez she ain’t dangerous herself, I don’t see why they should take the trouble ter gobble ber, Why should Berthrong want ter be burdened with her, anyhow? I can’t see the—” He stopped, meditated on another point, and then whistled softly. ‘*Say, ain’t I been a clam!” he exclaimed. ‘Or be I aclam, now? [ll find out!” He did not know what means the crooks had, if any, for entering the house, but it cer- tainly would not do to leave Mrs, Redburn in ignorance of her danger. He crossed the street and rung the door-bell, He had to repeat the ring befure a servant appeared. He explained his business, whereupon the servant tried to drive him away by declaring that the hour was too late, and Mrs, Redburn was in bed; but when told of the light in her room, and sooth- ed by the magic power of a small coin, the woman condestended to go up herself, and see if the lady was to be seen. She soon returned, “‘Tt’s all right,” she said, **T knew it would be.” He went out lightly, and Mrs, Redburn met him at the door of her room, ‘*Surprised ter see me, ain’t yer?” he in- quired, ‘*T confess that I am.” “The hour is an atom late fer a fashionable call, but nabobs like me don’t go much on style. Mum, important business has brought me here, You're in danger; you be.” ‘Tn danger?” ‘Yes. Two gallus crooks, Chub Mason an’ Eph by name, an’ sinners by reputation, bev planned ter kidnap ye, without your conseat,” Mrs. Redburn changed color. ** How do you know this?” The Keener plainly told of his experience in the street, and she dents donbs no longer. “*Tt seems nothing is too infamous for them!” she exclaimed, “Right! Correct! Sure! But kin you tell me why they want you?” “They probably think I’m against them,” Ts that all?” *Tsn’t it enough?” “No; I don’t think itis. I’ve got an idee in my mind, an’ it won’t do no harm to mention it, I reckon, All this cyclone means something. Mum, be you sure you ait’t Maze, the wife of Perce Berthrong?” Mrs, Redburn dropped into a chair, She covered her face with her hands, and remained silent for at least a minute, Fred felt that she was in deep sorrow, and he left it with her to speak first. Finally she uncovered her face. Her emotion was gone, and she made answer quite calmly: ‘* T need not hesitate to speak freely to such a friend as you. I am the unfortunate woman who married Percy Berthrong.” “Then it is clear why Chub an’ Epb are after you, b’jinks!” “cs Yes, ” “‘ But how do they expect ter get in?” ‘*One of the servants was discharged and sent away thisevening. She was a sullen, insubor- dinate girl, and her honesty was doubted. Being questioned, this afternoon, as to a missinz key she ought to have bad, she said she had lost it, This was not regarded as important then, I think, but it is easy, now, to surmise that she was bribed to give it to the men.” “Clear asa whistle. Well, we ain’t goin’ ter let them come in, be we?” « “T will call the landlady, at once, and see what can be done,” Mrs. Redburn left the room, and the landlady, on being aroused, was not at loss for an ex- eect Tbe front door was equi with a eavy bolt, and though this was not used, it could be brought into play now to advantage. It was duly moved, aud then the light was ex- tinguished in Mrs, Redburn’s room and tbe three sat down to await the result, Somewhat more than half an hour later Chub and Eph were seen approaching the house. They assumed a bold and careless air, and walked up the stoop asif they belonged there, Chub fitted a key to the door and turned it, Then he pusbed, but the door did not open. He re- peated the experiment several times, but always with no better success, and then the fact dawned upon them that they were baffled. Their angry mutterings were even heard above but they were too wise to linger Jong. They went down the street with a manner changed aud subdued, The landlady retired to rest, but, before she went, due arrangements had been made for Fred to have a room there during the rest cf the night, He did not retire at once, however; Mrs, Redburn informed bim that she wished to speak furfher witb him, ‘‘- You have learned who I am,” she began; ‘*a fact which, perhaps, I ought to have revealed before, but I sbrunk from the confession, My maiden name was Mary Stannard. I met Percy Berthrong and was dazzled by what I considered his fine appearance. ‘* My parents saw clearer than I and warned me against him, but as they bad no proof of their suspicions, I would not bear to their wise counsel, ‘*T am ashamed to say 1 finally eloped with him, We were both young, then, and I clung to bim with blind devotion through several years. Little by little I learned that he had many faults; little by little I began to suspect that I did not know all. “For a long time, in my infatuation, I would not see to what all signs pointed. Finally he be- an to abuse me, Even then I clung to bim, ut when his old fancy for me turned to hate, he was less careful of letting me see him as he was, and I learned of two or three lawless and cruel deeds he bad done, simply to get money, ‘Finally, my life became almost unbearable, Often be struck me, and I was subjected to every indignity. ‘*A short time ago I learned, in advance, of one of his plots, He had wronged a lady, tere, out of all her money; not much, but of vast im- portance to her. She bad a son, too, whom he had led into evil ways. ‘‘ Her busband had gone West to try and get a business chance after a failure somewbere in the East. He left ber here, well provided for, as be thought, and hoping soon to see her, but bis ill luck had cont nued, ‘“* When she wrote him of Percy Berthrong’s work be thought there was a chance to punish the swindler, and asked her to send on all the papers, and proof, for him to look over, *‘ She did so, and he wrote be would arrive in New York on a certain evening. “Can you guess the rest? I heard Percy, Chub’and Eph plan to meet the returning hus- band, sandbag him, rob him of the papers, and thus deprive him of all proof. I tried to prevent the deed, and eres failed, You can surmise whom they plotted to sandbag. It was he known to usas C. E, Jordan!” CHAPTER XIX. A BLOW THAT WENT HOME, “ WELL, by crickey!” Foxy Fred looked at his companion in won- der. ‘* So you all along knew more about C, E. Jor- dan than you let on?” he added. ‘*Yes, and no. I knew of their plan to rob him of the papers, but I never had heard his name, I do not now know whether it really is Jordan or not, but I am sure the man at Doc- tor McNabb’s is the same person who came on from somewhere to bring justice to the men who had wronged his wife out of her money, ‘¢ Tt seems that her own son was the one who betrayed the news of bis coming to Bertbrong —not in enmity to his father, but weakly, ‘t Pred, an awful load was on my wind, that night, when I stood above Jordan, with you. Though I did not see it done I was sure it was the work of my husband and his men. My mind was ina whirl. I tried to keep calm, but it was hard, ‘*T had agreat ae before I conld break away from Percy Berthrong, but it is done, and I feel happier, now. ** One other of his schemesI have foiled. My departure from him was also hastened by the fact that I had learned he was about to com- mit bigamy by marrying again, and that the victim was to be Zadahb, daughter of Dugald Forryster.
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“This scheme I foiled by sending a messen- ger-boy with a copy of my marriage-certificate, which was handed to the bride at the very hour of the ceremony, It would have been sent sooner if it had been best, in my judgment, but in all pity for her, as well as for myself, I wanted to make the stroke as telling as pos- sible,” The story was told, and Mrs, Redburn ceased to speak, Foxy Fred looked at her wonder- ingly. _ by crickey! you're a clipper!” he declared. ‘“P?’m a woman driven to desperation!” ‘* What d’ye mean ter do now?” ‘As for myself, keep away from the infa- mous man I was so unlucky asto marry. The name Maze, by which he called me, is loath- some now, because he invented it, I think I shall continue as plain Mrs, Redburn, Very soon I hope to leave New York, but, before I go, I should be glad to see Mr. Jordan recover both his health and bis wife,” ** Where is the wife?” ‘7 haven’t the least idea!” ‘* We must find her, b’jinks!” There was not much more to say, ard the Keener went to bed with his last expressed idea still in his mind, He had breakfast in the house, and then prepared to leave. “Dil bunt up my right bower, Ches Lynn, an’ then we'll go on the trail,” he explained, to Mrs, Redburn. ‘Say, though, I must bring Ches *round ter see you, mum,” “Ts he a worthy boy?” “Worthy! Well, Ishould smile! He’s a reg’lar corker, Ches is, e’s little, but he’s a hurri- cane, Why, be kin take a boy twice his size an’ lick him with ove hand; at least, I know he can, though I never see kim do it, He’s white, too; no funny biz about Ches.” . I shall be glad to see him, if he is willing to eall. “He will be, sure. You an’ he will take ter each other like ducks ter water.” With this confident assertion, the Keener went out, Naturally, the late revelations had: brought C. E, Jordan vividly back to his mind, and he went to Doctor McNabb’s first of all. “No better,” the physician reported, shaking his head. ‘* He won't be, until his fever turns, If he pulls through that be will be all right, I think, for Ican see no serious injury to him; buta fever is bad. I may say it’s mighty bad —though I seldom swear. Bad habit!—bad habit!" 3 McNabb was eccentric, but Fred had come to regard him as a capable physician, and felt sure that Jordan was in safe hands, Getting ready to leave, the Keener went to the door. The first person he saw was a very drunk young man. This person bad several boys keepiug company with him, but not in friendship, They were joking him roughly, and now and then giving bim a sly punch which he was notin condition to resent. Evidently, he had been annoyed about to the limit of his en- durance, for, seeing Fred at the open door, he turned, floundered up the steps, and exclaimed: “Let me in! Let me in, or these fiends will kill me!” There was a chorus of jeers from the boys, but, unheeding their cries, Fred pulled him in, elosed the door, jammed him up against the wall and glared at bim fiercely. ‘ Ain’t you asbamed of yourself?” he de- manded, “Ashamed? Wh-wh-why should [—hic—be ashamed? ‘* Because you promised me not ter drink no more, you clam!” “Promish you? Who b’ you? Never seen fore,” “That's a lie, DanGray! Ive seen you be- fore this day, though I never see you sober, Pretty citizen, you be; ain’t you? By crickey! afore I’d make a slop-bow] o’ my stomach I’d go an’ sell myself fer a yeller dog.” Dan Gray, for it was he, looked ashamed and distressed, “I’m a brute!” he admitted, mournfully. “Fact, b’mighty!” — Bs , ** And a fool!” “You never spoke truer.” “But you don’t know the despair I amin, If you had betrayed your best friends, you would _feelasIdo, Whatcan excuse perfidy like mine? Nothing, nothing!” “You can’t excuse it by pourin’a gallon o’ whisky inter yer stomach, Dan’l, you’re a bad eee, I do believe, but you’re more weak than _ sinful, You set down in that chair until I see _ wot kin be done fer you, Down you go, old _ The Keener pushed Dan into a chair without Foxy Fred, the Keener. ceremony, and then, as the latter submitted weakly, went up-stairs to find Doctor McNabb. Fred felt a good deal of pity, as well as disgust, for Dan, for he was positive that the young man was really too good-hearted to go to ruin at the gait he was using; and, having beard that there were remedies for drunkenness, he wanted to see McNabb and ask if he could not help his ac- quaintance to firmer footing. Dan, left alone, stared around stupidly for —— Then he arose and walked along the all, He had already forgotten where he was, but the idea was in his befuddled brain that the hall was not the place for bim, and he was seeking something else—he knew not what. He reached the door of the back parlor and opened it. He entered. In this room Jordan lay ill. The doctor’s ser- vant was acting as nurse, but not with vigil- ance, The servant slept near the foot of the bed, out of the range of Dan’s vision, and re- mained unconscious of the intrusion. Dan saw the bed, for it was directly in front of him, It looked like a baven of rest; it lured himon. He advanced until within a few steps of it—then he saw Jordan for the first time. The victim of the slung-shot was in a species of sleep. His eyes were closed. His face was flushed with fever, and contracted as if in pain. He muttered uneasily and unintelligibly. Dan Gray stopped short. His gaze was fixed upon the fevered face, Something made that sight startling to him, Hus eyes dilated, and his expression was one of terror. If he bad known the hour of his own death was at hand, in sudden and violent form, he would not have been more deeply moved. Jordan’s mutterings grew distinct. ‘“*On to New York!” he exclaimed. Dan Gray gasped for breath. “She must be saved!” the unconscious man added, ‘‘ Poor wife!—far away in sickness and want, robbed by human vampires. She shall be sayed! On to New York!” Dan Grey clutched at his throat as if he were suffocating. ‘‘ Where is our son who should save you?” Jor- don went on, ‘‘ What was he doing when all our hard-earned money slipped away? What is he doing now, when you are suffering? Ob! my wife, my wife! what is the full meaning of your words when you say, ‘My beart is breaking!’ Where is Edmund, in your hour of neec?” Dan Gray uttered a hoarse cry. He turned and fled from the room asif pursued by deadly enemies, and his appearance was that of one gone mad. He reached the hall and there fell prostrate, writhing, tearing bis garments in tat- ters at the neck, and rolling bis eyes iv frenzy. Then from bis lips came a hoarse and an- guished cry: ‘*My father, ob! my poor father! Merciful Heaven, was there ever such a wretch as 1?” CHAPTER XX. THE VAILED WOMAN SPEAKS, Two persons stood over Dan as he made these excited comments, They were Doctor McNabb and Foxy Fr2d, who had chanced to arrive on tie spot just in time to see the last of the scene in tbe sick-room, Dan quickly ceased to struggle, but lay moan- ing, and they looked at each other significantly. ** By crickey! I b’lieve this is a diskivery,” fin- ally observed the Keener. ** Whom does he mean by his ‘ father?” “Why, Jordan, sure! I ruther wonder I didn’t get a suspicion before, fer I’ve heerd in the last few hours that Jordan did heva profligate son. Dan wandered in there without a thought, an’ it just knocked him rezzled when he recognized bis own dad. That’s the way I figger it.” ‘* Lift him up, and let us carry bim to the hall room.” This,was done. Dan did not move, but when McNabb poured a powerful potion down bis throat, he opened bis eyes, ‘*T am the basest wretch living,” be dsoclared, “You ought ter know,” returned Fred, dryiy. **So that man is your father?” “ Yes,” ** W’ot’s bis name!” “Cyprus EB, Jordan.” ‘* How does it happen yourn is Dan Gray?” “Tt is not; my name is Edmund Jordan. I gave the name of Dan Gray to_you because I feared the police, I wish, now, 1 had gone to them;I wish they had bung me by the neck as such a wretch deserves to be bung!” Tbe recent shock had sobered the speaker, and he spoke like one in his right mind, Not in maudlin grief, but in deepest remorse did he ex- press his feelings, ‘* Wot have you done, anyhow?” Fred de- manded. ‘*T have kept company with Percy Berthrong and other fast men, worshiping them because they made a fine show, and gone ‘to ruin in my efforts to rival them. My poor mother hada little money, and when I was drunk [ was per- suaded by Berthrong to tell him an easy way to get this money. He made me believe we would have a great ‘celebration,’ as he called it, with the money, but when he got his hands on it he kept all. Practically, I bave robbed my on mother. May she forgive me; heaven never will!” ‘* Where is she, now?” ‘* Where, indeed? I don’t know. en, she may have sought oblivion in the river,” ‘* An’ this man is your father?” “ Yes,” ‘“* Also, you stole money from Dugald Forrys- ap@? t piney ‘* No wonder you groan, Dan’); no wonder at all, Ef you wuzas bad asyou seem I'd throw ye over right quick, but I see you’re a mighty foolsh feller who has been dazzled by evil men an’ led on terruin. That’s always the way when a young feller sets out ter trot ag’inst tinie. Bad fix you're in, but I do wish youcould be helped out, “It is impossible, Leave me to my ruin, or, better yet, hand me over to the police. It will help me to keep the vow I now make— never again to touch a drop of liquor as a beverage.” 7 ‘Your reform is a trifle late, but ef you hold ter your grip, you may be a winner yet. Doe, I’d like ter see you outside,” They went to the hall, and duly conferred. McNabb said that young Jordan would soon be all right, and as the elder man of the name was already there, he agreed to let Edmund remain, It was hoped he could be kept from his besetting sin, and made to care for his father. These matters had _ been arranged when the door-bell rung. The Keener answered it, and found Ches Lynn there. ‘“‘ Fred,” cried that person, eagerly, ‘I want you to go with me, I believe there is a dis- covery in store for us, but I want you to take the lead.” “I’m your tomato, Good-by, Doc; I'll see you later, W’ot’s up, Ches?” The last. question was asked after they reach- ed the street. “You remember the Vailed Woman, as you call her—the one you saved from suicide on the East River Bridge?” “Sure!” ‘She is down in Washington Square, and Meg Mason is with her. As near as | can make out, Meg bas been beaten by Chub Mason and driven out of the house. She is weak and suf- fering, and the Vailed Woman is trying to com- fort her, but neither has a hometo goto. Meg is so feeble she needs belp—” ‘* She ain’t goin’ ’round the streets now, snoop- in’ fer ter find Maze an’ git her inter Perce Ber- throng’s grip, eb?’ retorted the Keener, none tcoamiably. ‘‘ Let us forget that, now.” “Nary forget! When she was a wcmen- hunter she looked so wild-eyed an’ glarin’ t! at she put slivers inter my blood. Still, I ain’ta bard chap, an’ I do want ter see the Vailed VW o- man ag’in. Heave abead, Ches!” They were already going briskly, and soon ar- rived at the Square. “You take the lead, Fred,” Ches suggested; ‘* you're older than Iam,” he two women were still on the bench, and, as the Keener remarked, they ‘looked lke Grief an’ Sorrer a-posin’ fer their{picters!” They bad relapsed into silence, and, suspecting they did not know what else to do, he walked up to them boldly. ‘* Hullo, ladies!” he began, genially. ‘* Gow goes the battle, anyhow?” Nzed They looked at him, neither answered. “ Out fer an appetizer?” he added, in the same vein, Then the Vailed Woman spoke quickly: : “You and the lady who was with you on the Bridge expressed a strong wish toaid me, If you were sincere, your time has come,” ‘‘ What kin I do fer you, mum?” ‘¢ Make a home for this unfortunate woman,” and she pointed to Meg Mason, ‘‘Hum! Idunno! Is she still a life-hunter?’ ‘¢She isa homeless waif.” ‘* All I ask,” interrupted Meg, feebly, ‘is a chance to lie down and die.” ‘Great guns! mum, don’t be buntin’ fer sech Heart-brok--
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a place, Let the past be forgot, an Ill tow yer ter a safe habor. Guess it’ll hev ter be my own home, too.” / He paused, looked sharply at the Vailed Woman, and slowly added: ‘*T reckon you have a name, mum?” “Tt is Mrs. Jordan.” Fred nodded sharply. “ Guess I'll take ye in, sure!” His good-humor had returned; in fact, it seemed to be cf the highest order, now; and he gave Meg Mason his arm, Mrs. Jordan walked on the other side, and Ches brought up the rear, keeping so far back, in fact, that the Keener had no chance to ad- | dress him, ; When the house was reached Meg was put to bed. She bore more than one biack-and-blue mark, and Fred suspected that her devotion to Chub Mason was shaken. The Keener spoke to the other woman: “Did you ever know a feller named Edmund Jordan?’ She started and gazed at him in silent dis- may. ‘Or Cypress E, Jordan?’ Sbe burst into tears. “T see that you know my wretched history,” she returned, when she could command her voice, ‘* Well, I don’t see why you hev refused ter give yer name, before this,” ‘*T will explain all, for I feel sure you are one who is to be trusted in safety. My son is in trouble with his employer, and is hiding, soma- where; I know not where. For his sake, to avoid being arrested and compelled to betray him, I went out to lose myself in the great city; to go I cared not where, so long as I was not found by the police, It was because of this I refused to give my name. Once, in’ my des- peat. I almost nerved myself to do barm to ercy Berthrong, to whom all my troubles are due, This was the night I first met you. Again, utterly hopeless, I decided on suicide, but you saved me on the East River Bridge.” “Mum, you’ve had a hard. time, but there's better luck in store.” ‘* Not for me, I fear.” “* Don’t you want ter see yer husband an’ yer son?” : ‘*T know not where they are,” * But [ do.” “ You?” “Bet yer bottom dollar! Sling on yer Paris bunnit, ag’in, an’ we'll waltz over an’ see ’em. First, though, let me go out an’ speak ter Ches Lynn, my pard, He’s bashful, that boy is; an’ dassent venture inter perlite society. I’ve gota plan fer makin’ Berthrong sick, an’ I want ter see Ches about it,” CHAPTER \% A WONDERFUL GHANGE. Percy BERTHRONG sat in his room, with Chub Mason and Eph for companions, All looked gloomy and angry. *There’s no use of trying any longer,” de- elared the captain of the crooks, “‘ This under- current which we cannot fully grasp is too much for us, and our safest way is to skip the town while we can. Chicago holds out its welcoming arms,” “They may be police arms,” reminded Chub. ‘* Well, it can be no worse than here. That boy, Fred, whoever be is, is raising the Old Nick with us. He must bear a charmed life, too. I won’t struggle against fate.” ‘“‘T hate ter be drove away.” ** Explain Pees objections at Polics Head- quarters, and I doubt not they will let you stay.” “Don’t be funny, Perce.” “‘T don’t feel in mood for it, Well, as I said, we will skip. We'll go well heeled. In this ackage ”—he removed the object named from is pocket—‘‘is the proceeds of our haul from the Jordans, both what we got from the old wo- mangand what Edmund handed over to us after he got it from Forryster.” : ** So you’ve got it out o’ the bank?” “* Just got it. As I said, all that money is here, and there’s a thousand dollars besides. “The rest I have sent by Express to Chicago. This boodle we will carry right along with us.” * Are yousure?” The question sounded at the door, and the three crooks turned hurriedly. The door was ajar, and a man stood in the opening, but he now watked in, followed by others. Before the surprised gang could recover their wits Foxy Fred, Dugald Forryster and two other men were in the room. “It is my opinion,” added Forryster, ‘that Foxy Fred. the Keener. you will not take any of my money to Chi- cago! “By the fiends!” cried Berthrong, hotly, “how dare you—” ‘* Easy, easy!” spoke the unknown men. ‘* Respect our feelings, and make no disturb- ance,’ He and his companion threw open their coats, and two detective badges were revealed. Perce and his followers were silent with dismay, They were matched in numbers, and the majesty of the LAW was against them, *“Come down out o’ the tree, P. Berthrong,” advised the Keener; “ the gun is aimed at you, an’ it’s full o’ powder an’ shot, an’ other fix- iu’s,” ““You young demon! you are the cause of this!” almost shouted tho leader of the crooks, “fF be, a few, mister,” Fred nonchalantly ag eed, ‘* Berthrong,” sternly continued Forryster, ‘you can hand over that package of which you bave just boasted. My own money I am bound to_have back; Mrs, Jordan’s I will re- store to her: and the extra thousand is for your punishment. All must be given to us,” ‘**T refuse to do it!” “Then you will be arrested at once.” ‘* Do you think I am to be bluffed?” “T simply know you will be arrested, if you refuse.” Berthrong stormed, and Chub and Eph joined him, but they found Forryster firm, At last they yielded to the inevitable. The leader sul- lenly asked: ‘*Do you promise us freedom from arrest if we comply with your request? Can we leave town in safety?” “As far as Iam concerned, you can; I only want tbe money. My daughter is over her fancy for you; wdéunded ghd is, at times, a great restorer, She and I are content, These detectives are in my pay, and will do what I say. Bertbrong hesitated. It was hard, but he had ursued similar tactics with his own victims be- ore then, and had learned that it was the best way to pay tribute rather than go to prison. Viciously he tossed the package to Forryster, “Take it, and be hanged!” be snarled. “Thanks! It is all we want.” Forryster rose to leave, and bis companions followed his example, but, as they opened the door, other men walked in. They were headed by Doctor McNabb, while the rest of the party had a look which smacked of the police depart- ment, One of them pointed to the leader of the crooks, — “Percy Berthrong,” he spoke, ‘ you are my prisoner!” ** Devils! what now?” shouted Perce, “The charge is that you used a slung-shot on one Cyprus E, Jordan, and that Mason and Eph were your accomplices, We have ample proof of all we allege.” “* Who accuses us?” “That you will Jearn later.” “We are not guilty. We—” “You can tell all this in court. Now, you go with us!” Berthrong glared at Forryster. “you have made a vile conspiracy against “Wrong,” Forryster returned. ‘I was asked to press the first charge against you, and did so willingly, but I knew not of this latter matter. I am not your accuser.” ““Then who is?” ‘“* Your accuser is here!” It wasaclear voice from near the rear, and the speaker pressed forward. To most of those there this person was only a slight boy, and some had been told that his name was Chester Lynn, but Berthrong first started, then looked in un- certainty which developed into conviction and anger; then he hissed: * Maze!” Yes,” was the ready answer, “I am your unfortunate wife!” Frederick Walsingham Mather almost fell over a big detective in the surprised start be made, Then, with dilated eyes, he gazed at Cbhes Lynn—Ches no longer. He was simply astounded, The declaration was backed up by the fact that it was the voice of Mcs, Redburn, rather than that of his ‘‘ boy” ally, but even then he found it hard to credit the truth. Ches, not a boy but Mrs, Redburn in disguise! Amaz- ing. fact! ut the crook’s voice broke the spell: ‘* And it is you who has brought me to this?” “T have done my share,” ‘Then you shall reap your reward!” The infuriated man Grew a revolver, mad ’ 15. with the desire to kill her then and thera, but he had to deal with men not easy to take unaware. He was seized by the detectives before he could do any harm, Even then he was not easily sub- dued, and many a hard and painful blow was given him ere he was subdued and handcuffed, Chub and Eph wisely remained passive, When all three were rendered harmless the triumph of justice was complete. It was not until several minutes later that Foxy Fred worked around to where Mrs, Red- burn stood, ‘*Mum,” he remarked, in some confusion, “Tm all broke up, I see you ain’t what I thought you was, an’ yet you be, I never sus- pected Ches Lynn was anybody but w’ot he eg an’ I want ter know ef you reelly be im, “IT am the only Ches Lynn,” she replied, smiling faintly. ‘‘I assumed the disguise in order to work agaiust Percy Berthrong more successfully. When be cast me, his wife, off, I determined to stop his career of crime. Tam Mary Staunard Berthrong, Mrs, Redburn and Ches Lynn, all in one. “Tt is not a you did not suspect the fact, for I was carefully made up as ‘ Ches,’ and, also, I changed my voice, My courage has been severely tried in my character as a boy, and never more than when I went down the rope at the South street house. That was something for which I was not fitted. You remember the dog in the Macdougai street house? When Tempest came around the stove, where I was, I was saved because he recognized me, “You never were in the house where I claimed to have a home as Ches Lynn. I did hire a room there, but rarely occupied it. So much for Chester!” “* By crickey! it’s bard on me ter know there ain’t no Ches, but I’m proud ter know I’ve had a@ woman para of such nerve. I be, by jinks?” The work was done. It was found that Berthrong had been severely ipjured in the fight with the police, and he had a long illness in consequence. Then he was sentenced to prison, where Chub, Eph and Jones bad already one, 7 When Cyprus Jordan recovered, be and his wife and their son left for the West. There is cause to believe Edmund, alias Dan Gray, bad received a lesson be would never forget, and that be would shun evil ways, Their money was fully recovered. Mr. Forryster refused to prosecute Edmund, and the latter and his daugh- ter still reside together. Dr. McNabb lives and prospers. Meg Mason only wai to reeover ber health, and then became a nurse in a hospital, where she is doing much good. And Jast of all, Foxy Fred flourishes, and is in good luck, Mrs. Redburn had learned of bis many good qualities, and as she was alone in the world, she informally adopted him. Together they have found prosperity and happiness, and be never ceases to exult over the chance which made him acquainted with her and ‘Ches yon.” THE END. Beadle’s Dime Library. BY LEON LEWIS. 624 The Submarine Detective: or, The Water Ghouls. 484 Captain Ready, the Red Ransomer. 481 The Silent Detective; or, The Bogus Nephew, 456 The Demon Steer. 428 The Flying Glim; or, The Island Lure. BY WM. G. PATTEN, 663 The Giant Epon or, Sold to Satan. 056 Old Plug Ugly, the Rough and Ready. 648 Gold Glove Gid, the Man of Grit, 641 Aztec Jack, the Desert Nomad, 631 Colonel Cool, the Santa Fe Sharp. 602 Captain Nameless, the Mountain Mystery. 571 Old Dismal, the Range Detective, 545 Hustler Harry, the Cowbo; Sport. BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS, 666 Old Adamant, the Man of Rock. 618 Kansas Karl, the Detective King 552 Prince Primrose, the Flower of the Flock 5%8 Huckleberry, the Foot-Hills Detective, BY ISAAC HAWKS, Ex-Detective,. YJ 240 A Cool Head; or. Orson Oxx in Peril, 232 Orson Oxx; or, The River Myste>x, Beadle’s Dime Liprary is for sale ak Newsdealers, ten cents per copy, on,.sent by mailom — recejnt of twelve cents each. 3 elena =
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BEADLE'S* H ALF- DIME«[_ IBRARY. Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novels. 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. a ee tr ppt — in pire gp fw or, BuffaJ. Ben 35 Deadwoo ek in His Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; or, The Phantom Mine. 49 Deadwood Dick tn Danger; or, Omana Oll. 5% Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 78 Dendwood Diek on Deck; or, Calamity 4 ine, the Heroine ino ead weed ous hpat pets or, Corduroy Charlie. ead woo ckin Leadville. 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadweod Dick as Detcctive. 129 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, The Gorgon’s Guich Ghost. rts Deadwood op Beate Benes or, Blonds oe { ck’s g Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 156 Diek of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party, 195 Peadwood Dick’s Dreams; or, The Rivals of the Road. 201 Deadwood Dick’s Wards or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. 205 et (abet | rs perme or, Calamity Jane’s Adventure. eadwoo ck’a Dead Decal. Deadwood Pick’s Death-Plant. Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Ronghs and Towghs, “ame ha ee bd nt a Spirit of Swamp Lake. dw ckh’s Death Tra P Deadwood Dick’a 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. Read weed Tite Sentenced s or, The Terrible Vendetta. y ek’s Claim, 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. Readwood Dick’a Diamende.,. Deadwood Dick in New Yorks or, A “Cute Case.” Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. taney haa one os a Crimson Crescent Sign. eadwo ec r."4 eflance. Deadwoed Bek, Jrse, ile atownd.t e r.’4, « Round-Up. 465 Deadwood Dlek’ Irs Racket at Claim 10, anhwoed. bieky Su. bee bone Deadwoed Dick, Jr., In Deadwood, Besavees Bee gute fokats e o e r,’#, Inheritance, Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s piggings. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deliverance, BPeadwood 45 3 Cn peecowee ek, Jr.’a, Three, Dick, Jr.'s, Danger Ducks, Dick, Jr.’*% Death Hunt. Bick, Jr., in Texna. Dick, dr., the Wild West Vidocg Dick, dr., on Mia Mettle. Dick, Jr., In Gotham, Dick, Jr., in Boston, Dick, Jr., In Philadcitphia. pin? res yl a ek, Jr. ont. Dick. wr.. in Denver, Dick, Jr.s, Decree, Dick Jr. in Beelzebub’s Basin. Dick Jr., nt Coney Island. Dick, Jr.’8, Leadville Lay. Dick, Jr., in Detroit. Bick. Jr. in Cineinnatl. Dick, dr., in Nevada, Pick, Jr., in No Man’s Land, Dick, Jr., After the Queer. Dick. Jr... in Buffalo. Diek, Jr.’a, Chase Across the Continent Dick, Jr.. Among the Smugglers. Diek, Jr.’s, Lnaurance Case. Dick, dr., Back In the Mines, Dick, dr., tu Durangoy or, “ Gathered In.” Dilek, Jr.’a Discovery; or, Found a Fortune, Dick, Jr.’«. Dazzle, Diek, Jr.’a. Dollars. Dick JIr., at Danger Divide. Dick, Jr.’«, Drop. Diek, Jr., nt Jack-Pot. Diek Jr., in San Francisco, Diek, Jrs Still Hunt. Dick, Jr.’ Dominoes. Dick, Jrv’« Dilaguiac, Dick, Jr.’s, Double Deal, Diek Jr.’a, Deathwatch. Dick Jr.’s, Poublet. VWiek Jr.'s, Deathblow, Dick, drs Desperate Strait Diek, dra, Lone Hand, Wiek, Jr.’s Deteat. Dick, Jr.’a, Resurrection, erer Signe Pi Days. dle re cltied, Dick, drs, Double Device, Dick, Jr’.«, Desperate Venture, Pick, Jr.’s, Diamond Dice, Piek Jr.’s, Royal Flush, Risk 5 Aha os Rage Yek, Jr.’a, Rival. oad Be ia « r.’*. Scoop. Dick, drwe, Proxy. Dick, Jr.’a, Clutch. Dick, Jr.’«, High Morse. Dick Jr., at Devil's Guich. Dick, Jr.’s, Peath-Hole Hustle, a So) See ck, #r., in Mexico, Dick, Jr’a Decoy Duck. Deadwood Dick, Jr. In Silver Pocket. Deadwvod Dick, Jr.’a, Dead.Sure Game, DPeadweod Dick, Jr.’a, Double Drive. are ep bee Hs pc es FP yp ecadwood Dick, Jr., at Tip-Top. 916 Deadwood Diek, Tr.s Double-Decker. +97 See ht mg .’s. Dutch Pard, 1018 Deadwood Dick, J’.’s, Big Four. BY ROBERT R. INMAN, 1086 Pandy Dick’s Double. 1024 Dandy Dick, Decective. BY MAROUS H. WARING, 1026 ane Three Spotter’. Hy e Btreet Spotters’ Weird Hunt. 1053 The Three Spotters’ Dead Mystery. Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwooa 544 Deadwood 549 Deadwooa 854 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dead wooe Deadwood 5 Peadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Peadwood } Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood lbeadwood Deadwood & Deadwood Dendwood Dead yood Deadwood Peadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Peadwood Deadwood Deadwood Peadwood Deadwood Dead wooa Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 2 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dendwood Dendwood 845 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Peadwood Deadwood TOR BBW E SCH SENSrSI oe he be be be te be be be tale be le ted BVBRANS NOnres == S Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. . 84 Rosebud Rob on Handy; or, Idy), the Girl Miner, 88S Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance; or, Photograph Phil. 1x1 Rosebud Rob’s Cha lenges or, Cinnamon Chip, 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee's Surround 281 Denver Doll’s Vietory; or, Skul! and Crossbones, 286 Denver Doll’s Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza. 296 Denver Doll’s Drift; or, The Road Queen. 864% Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherery or, The Lile Lottery. 872 Yreka dim’s Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. ~ 885 Yreka Jim’s Joker} or, The Rivals of Red Nese. 504 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam, 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game, Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret; or, A Sister’s Devotion. Slerra Sama Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints. 58 Sierrn Sam’s Pard 3 or, The Angel of Big Vista. Merra Saim’s Seven} or, The Stolen Bride. Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. Kangaroo Kit’s Raeket; or, The Pride of Played-Out, BY Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. 96 Watch-Eye, the Detective; or, Arabs and Angels, 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 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 & Wo., the Detectives of Philadelphia, 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Warry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Samm Slabsidea, the Beggar-Boy Detective. 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives. 26 Cloven Heof, the Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures, 82 Beb Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 45 Old Avalanche: or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand. 568 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team. 92 Onnada Chet ¢ or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 118 Jack Hoyle the Young Speculator. : 125 Bonanza Bill, Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 188 Bose Bob the King of Bootblacks. 141 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows, 177 Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scamps. 181 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or, Lady Lily’s Love. 236 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado; or, Rowdy Kate. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley, 27B Jumbo Joey, the Boy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs. B80 Little Quick-Shoty3 or, The Dead Face of Daggersville, B58 Firat-Clasa Fred, the Gent trom Gopher. 878 Nabob Ned? or, The Secret of Slab City. 88% Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher; or, A Son’s Vengeance, 486 Sealskin Sam, tho Sparkler; or The Tribunal of Ten, 918 Kit Keith, t e Revere Spotter. 922 Sol Sharpe, the New York Night-Hawk. 943 Old Iayseed Among Bunco Men, 1061 Banty, the Denver Bootblack. BY J. CC. COWDRICK. 490 Brondway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 5614 Broadway Billy’s Boodle; or, Clearing aStrange Case, Broadway Billy’s ‘Ditkilty.” Brondway Billy’s Peath Racket. Brondway Billy’s Surprise Party. Brondway Billys or, The ®°v Detective’s Big Inning. Broadwoy Billy’s Dea _etz or, The League of Seven, Broadway Billy Abrondy or, The Bootbiack in Frisco, Broadway Billy’« Beat; or, Beating San Francisco's Finest, Brondway Billy In Clover. } Brondway Billy in Texas; or, The River Rustlers, Brondway Billy’s Brand. Broadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Clever Deal. Brondway Billy’s Full Hand; or, The Gamin Detective. > Broadway Billy's Business, Broadway Billy’a Curious Case, Brondway Billy tn Denver. Broadway Kully’s Bargains or, The Three Detective. Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective. Rroadway Rilly’s Shadow Chase. Broadway Billy’s Beagles; or, The Trio’s Quest, } Broadway Billy’s Teams: or, The Combine’s Big Pull. Broadway Billy’« Brigade; or, The Dead Alive, Brondway Hilty’s Queer Bequest, Breadway tly Balled. 5 Brondway Billy’s Signal Scoop. illy’s Wipe Out, & Brondway Uilly’s Hank Racket. tilly’s Blof. tilly Among Jeraey Thugs, Billy's Raid, Rilly’a Big Boom, Billy's Bie Bulge. Billys #100,000 Snap. Billy’s Blind; or, The Bootblack Stowaway. Billy In London. Ulily Shadows London Sluma, Broalway Rilly’s French Game, Broadway Billy and the Bemb-Throwers, Stiver-Masak, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Keys. Shaxta, the Geld King} or, For Seven Years Dead. The Detective’s Apprentice; or, A Boy Without a Name, Otbuta John; or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, Sandy Sam, the Street Scout. Disco Dan, the Daisy Dade. Redlight Ralph the Prince of the Road. The Engineer Detective; or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve Mart, the Night Express Detective. Afr-Line Luke the Young Engineer; or, The Double Case rhe Boy Pinkerton; or, Running the Rascals Out. Fighting Marry the Chief of Chained Cyclone, Rareback Reth, the Centaur of the Circle, £47 Tyrewr'ter THly the Merchant's Ward, 659 Moonlight Morgan the *t Pizenest’’ Man of Ante Baz, 887 Battery Bob. the Dock Detective. 894 Arizona Dick's Wipe-Out. 900 Jumping dack’s ubilee. 906 Satety Sam, the Cycle Sport. 912 Train Roy Trist’s Hot Hustle, 918 The Trump Dock-Boy. 924 Big Boota Bob, the Vire-Laddle, 980 Kuatler Ralph, the Boy Spotter. 985 The Ex-Newshoy Detective’s Cham. 941 The Bowling Green Detective’s Drop. 944 Cowboy Charlie's Double. 947 The Bowery W restler; or, The Butcher-Boy’s Backer. 958 Paddy’« Trump Card; or, Silver Sallie, the Girl Sport, 960 The Broadway Sport; cr, Flyer Fred’s Clear Case, 967 &1000 Rewards: of, The Rival Reporters’ Sleek Sooop. 978 Bantam Billy, the Corker-Ferret. 978 Plucky Pat. the &treet-Bey Detective. 989 Bicycle Bob’« Hot Scorch, 997 Reorcher Sam, the Detective on Wheels. 1004 Scorcher Sam’s Sweep-Stake s. 1009 Tne Girl ©; ¢lis’a Winning Hand, r 1 I } Broadway . i I Rroadway Broudway Sroadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Rroadway § Broadway BY ARIZONA OY. 1048 Vou Ret Bob from Oross Crick, 1088 You Bet Bob’s Cireus, BUFFALO BILL NOVELS. BY COL. PRENTISS INGRATABM 1052 Ruffalo Bill in Disguise. 1046 Goid Plume, the Boy Bandit,; or, Buffale Bill, the Pony Express Rider. 1042 Little Grit, the Pony Exprers Rider, 1040 Buffalo 1s Pony Patrol. 1018 Buffale BiL’s Texas Team. 1007 Buffalo Bill’s Sure-Shota, 1000 Buffalo KUVs Decoy Boys. 995 Buffalo Bill’s Drop; or, Dead-S 988 Buffalo BUVs Lasso Throwers. 981 Butfalo Bill's Fighting Five. 975 Buffalo Bill's Kifle Shots. 968 Buffalo Bills Hush Ride; or, Sure-Shot, the High-Flyer. 964 Buffalo BIL’s BPecoy ; or, The Arizona Crack Shot 95S Buffalo BUIls Mazeppa-Chase. 948 Buffalo Bill's Snap-Shot ; or, Wild Kid’s Texan Tally 942 Buffalo BIll’s Tongh Tussle. 986 Buffalo Bill’sa Boy Mascot; or, Joe Jarvis’ Hold-up, 929 Buffale Bills Crack-shet Pard, 650 Buffalo Bill’s Boy Pard; or, Butterfly Billy. 216 Bison Bll, the Prince of the Reins, 222 Bison Bill’s Clue; or. Grit, the Brave Sport. BY BUFFALO BILL. ~ 65 Deadly-Fye. the Unknown Scout; or, The Banded Brotherhoo# 68 Border Robin Hoods; or, The Prairio Rover. 158 Faney Frank of Colorado? or, The Trapper’s Trust, 1029 The Phantom Spy. 1088 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. BY CAPT. ALFRED B, TAYLOR, U. & A. 191 Buffalo Billy, the Boy Bullwhacker. 194 Buffalo BUN's Bet: or, The Gambler Guide, BY COL. PRENTISS INGRABAM,. 87 The Artist Detective. 84 The Gold Witch's shadower. 81 The Texan Hustlers in (uba. 27 The Cowboy Raiders in Cuba 25 The Flying Yankee or, The Ocean Owteass. 28 The Cowboy Clan In Cua. 016 The Boy Bugle. in Cuba. aces 82 New York Nat’s Drop: or, Ex-Ferret Sykes’ Bold Game New York Nat and the Traitor Ferret. . New York Nat Trapped. 2 New York Nat’s ‘Three of a Kind. New York Nat’s Double. 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’s Trump Card, New York Nat and the Grave Ghouls. & New York Nat’s Masked Mascot. New York Nat, the Gamin Detective. Dick Doom’s Kidnapper Knock-Out, Dick Doom’s Fen Strike. Dick Doom’s Flush Hand. , Dick Doom’a Peath-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny, Dick Doom’s Pestiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror, Dick Doom; or, I be Sharps and Sharks.o!f New York, Dick Doom In Boston} or, A Man of Many Maske. Dick Doom tn Chicago. Dick Doom in the Wild West. : Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep} c:, Five Links in a Clue Dick Doom’s Death Clue. ~ Dick Doom’s Biamonud Deal, Dick Doom’a Girl Maacot, Dick Doom’s Shadow Hunt. Diek Doom’s Big Heul. ~. Dashing Charlic; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trafie Dashing Charlic’s Restiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive! Dashing Charlic’s Pawnee Pard. Dashing Charlte, the Rescuer, Ruck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. Buck Taylor, the SOPREIES orate Buck Taylor's Boys; ¢1, The ed Ridersof the Rio Granag Ana Fifty Others. BY LIEUT, A. K, SIMS. Tom-Cat and Pardy or, The Dead Set at Silver City. Tom-Cat’s Triad; or, ‘Ile Affair at Tombstone, Tom Cat’ Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective Tom-Oat’s Triumph; or, Black Dan’s Great Combine. Captain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike, The Dandy of Dodge; or, Rustling for Millions, The Silver Sport: or, Josh Peypermint’s Jubilea, Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow IHappy Ilana, the Dutch Videeg; or, Hot Timesat Round-Upl Bildad Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. 3 Cowboy Gid, the Cattle-Range Detective. Wearbling William the Mountain Mountebank, 5 Jolly Jeremfahs the Plains Detective. 3 Siennl Sam, the Lookout Scout. : Billy, the Gypay Spy:_or, The Mystery ef Two Lives.’ Simple Sim, the Proncho Buster: or, For Big Stakes. The Mesmeriat Sport; or, The Mystified Detective. Toltec Tom, the Mad Prospector. 4 5 Kanasaa Jim the Cross-Cut Detective. Marmaduke, the Mustanger Detective, The Rustler of Rolling Stone, Lone Hand Joc the Committee of One. Kent Kirby, the High-Kicker from Killbveh, The Doctor Dete etive in Texas, Two Showmen HBetectives In Colorado, 987 The Texan Fir cbrand: or, Brazos Billy’s Snap.She)} 961 The Tramp’s Trump-Trick. NEW ISSUES. 1064 Dandy Dick Deeoyed. By Robert R. Inman. 1065 Sure Shot Seth, tie Boy Rifleman. .By Oll Coomes, 1066 Co. boy Chris, the Des rt Centaur, Ry W. W. Wilder. 1067 You Bet Bob's Jangle._ By Arizona Cy. 1068 The Crulae of the Sea Wo'f. By Co}. Ingraham. 1069 On Land and fea. By Bracebiidge Hemyng 1070 Nat Todd; or, The Fate of tue Sioux Captive. By Ellis. 10 1 ed , the Kansas Kid. dy Dick’s Deco By Robt. R, Inman, $ Kee x nife, Prince cr the Prairies. By Oll Coomes. JUST ISSUED. 5 1d Raven’s Redskin Ruse, By Col. P. Ingraham 1055 peset d Chris in Cinnabar, By Wm. W. Wilder. 1057 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter. By Ed. L, W heeler, 1068 Roderick, the Rover. By T. J Flanogan 1059 Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 1060 Marlo, the Renegade. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 1061 Bilver Star, the Boy Knight, By 01! Coome: 1062 Ths Left-Hand Athlete, By Bracebridge Hemyng. 1068 Wild Bill's Weird Foo, By Wm.G Patten. A New Issue Every Tuesday. * b ie fi iT I] newsdealers, five an crat Dias SIREN fect trent cok “BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 92 William Street, New York, } z O7% Keen