Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 1120) (1901 12)
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—S ———— ———— : ; ) iq , N EW YORK As Wie \ a a ee I. \\ Copyricut, 1883, sy Brapim & ADAMS. ra id | ft {YS el Li il (a! (a i ENTERED aS SECOND C No { 199 Published Every s a = a pie Erie Bo Sa. | i | Oe es Month. ., Post OFFICE. \ p> : mae ; + ublishers, PRICE 5 CENTS. (JAMES SULLIVAN, Patoprietor), 600. 2 aur 379 Pearl Street, New York. ig Sania an ibe ay 4 at R; or, THE IRON-NERVED SPORT, Y EDWARD L. WHEELER, tht y ABTHOR oF ‘DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS OSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, “ DENVER DOLL” NOVELS, ETC., ETO, tL es
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Ai a "Liza Jane./the Girl Miner. —————— ‘Liza Jane, THE GIRL MINER: The Iron-Nerved Sport. BY. E. L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, ‘‘ ROSE- BUD ROB” NOVELS, ‘‘ DENVER DOLL” NOVELS, ‘ETC., ETC. CHAPTER I. THE PERI OF THE GULCH PARADISE. ““G@’nanG, Mehetible, you lazy beast, or we'll not get to our journey’s end, to-day. Consarn you, behawe yer switchin’, There ain’t a fly near ye. Heigh ho! *** On the other side o’ Jordan, In the sweet fields of—’ “ Jerusalem! Can it be possible?” The lone traveler reined in his burro, with very little effort, for it was by no means a fiery, untamed beast, and sat staring ahead of him. The course of his journey lay through a nar- row gulch, walled in at the right and left by precipitous hights, upon which clung only an oceasional shrub or tuft of vegetation. A gurgling little stream ran down the gulch, erequentiy crossing the seldomtraveled mule- trail. For miles the traveler had toiled on through this gulch, without encountering a sign of human habitation—nor, did game of any kind seem to infest the district, which a disastrous fire had evidently swept through some time in the past, for the towering hights and hills pre- sented a black, smoked appearance, which de- tracted much from their grandeur. It was just after rounding an abrupt bend in the gulch, that the man and bis steed came to a halt, and the cause of the wayfarer’s surprise was readily apparent. After rounding the bend, the gulch continued én its sinuous course, while to the, right of the trail, a dark, narrow glen branched abruptly off, and penetrated a short distance into the moun- tains. Facing the mule-trail, at the mouth of this glen, stood a small but strong cabin, with a ve- randa in front. A chair was placed upon this veranda; a hammock was swung in under the shade of a large tree, whose limbs reached out to the cabin roof; a bed of flowers bloomed just beside the path leading from the trail to the steps. It was a pretty and picturesque spot, and there was something so refreshing about the fact, to travel-stained Parson Priggins, that he was excusable for drawing rein in surprise. He saw more than we have described, too—a system of sluice-boxes, that had their beginning somewhere up in the glen, and running down pent the cabin, emptied their muddy waters nto the little apley streamlet; he saw a young and pretty girl near the shanty, engaged in shoveling a small heap of dirt into one of the sluice-ways, and working the ‘‘cradle” in a very business-like manner, as if she were no less than a time-tried veteran at the profession of gold-mining. Parson Priggins was only thirty, good-look- ing, after a meek fashion, unmarried, fairly educated, and had a snug little ‘‘ nest egg” in the wallet which he invariably carried in his inside vest pocket. Therefore, no wonder his heart beat a little faster, as bis gaze wandered from the cosey cabin to the cosier little piece of femininity working at one cradle. ia & ; e was, possibly, eteen years of age, though her fresh face looked even younger; she was a trifle below the medium stature of women, but perfectly molded in figure. ~ Her face was markedly pretty, and wore the confident expression of a brave soul, as also did her brown eyes, and small but resolute mouth; her hair was between a brown and an auburn seal and fell in delightful confusion to her st. She was dressed in a homespun waist and skirt, the latter not reaching quite to the shape- by ankles; her feet were incased in a daint of leather-top boots; a broad-rim slouc iat was set back upon her head, and a belt about cher waist contained a pair of gold-mounted re- * ‘ volvers. c This much saw Parson Pr without be- ae. fmm eon by the dashing Girl Miner; then, his Pa se ss “er 4 curiosity getting the better of him, he urged the burro toward this paradise of the gulch. “Gang, Mebetible, you beast! At last, it appears, we have reached the boundaries of Civilization.” The footfalls of the animal soon reach the girls hearing, and she hastily seized a rifle, which was leaning against a bowlder, but laid it down again, when she noted the ministerial aspect of the new-comer. ‘* No tough, thar!” she ommended. ‘‘ Looks as if he might hey jest fe:. out of a camp-meet- in’.’ And a moment later, Privgins drew rein, and doffed his beaver; in true Chesterfieldian style. ** Good-afternoon, sis!” he saluted. ‘“‘ Howdy do, sonny!” the Girl Miner retorted. ‘Does yer mother know you’re out, pray?” ‘‘Quite well, miss,” the parson replied, see- ing that ‘‘sis ” did not strike the girl favorably, ‘‘ or at least the old folks ought to know, sinee l’m two months gone from Montpelier.” ‘*Oh! you're from the Hast?” ‘1 am, and am proud to sayit. I hope I do not look like the rough Western characters I’ve met, so far?” ‘Oh! no. You’re just toosweet for anything. Where you going?” “To uncle’s, an’ no further. Dunno how fur that is, I suppose? Nor I, nuther. Reckon it’s a good piece on yet. What’s yername? Mine’s Jim Priggins.” * And mine is "Liza Jane?” “Tica Jane! Jerusalem! I us’ter court old Gilroy’s gal, who was Called Liga Jane. What’s yer other name?” ‘*Give it up!” ““Ye did? That’squeer! Whar’s the old folks —don’t see any of ’em about?” “Good reason. Thar ain’t none.” ‘‘Phew! Ye don’t mean to say ye live all alone, hyer, by yerself, in this lonesome coun- try.’ ‘*That’s the case.” ‘*Sho! You must be nervy, ef I do say it.” **P’rhaps I am!” The girl spoke in a dry, good-natured way, that seemed kabitual] with her. ‘* Guess you’re a preacher, ain’t ye?” she added, a twinkle in her eye. ‘“ Why?’ and Priggins stared. “Oh! I suspected so. You don’t sw’ar!” ‘‘Great guns! Is that how ye tell? Why, up at Snodgrass Corners, nobody swears.” ** All preachers, eh?” ‘* No, tut they all knows the commandments. Ye see my father aire deacon o’ the church, an’ he got me to study up ministry.” “Well, how did you make out?” “ Purty well. eseel got along well, till I tackled preachin’, fer I us’ter do the marryin’ up brown. But one day suthin’ happened, an’ dad said I better take a vacation fer awhile.” ** Indeed,” “Yes; you see old man Byles wanted his son Jack to do the preachin’, ’cause the collection wasn’t no small penny of a Sunday. But it made Byles awful mad when I st«wpped in. he us’ter try to annoy me, an’ one day he set up some 0’ the members to go to sleep an’ snore, while I was preachin’. I stood i\; awhile, an’ then I told Byles if he didn’t quit, ’d come down an’ punch his warty nose. He wiggled his ear at me an’ laffed; then I mounted him, an’ throwed him out the winder, inter Garrick’s sheep-pas- ture, where the ugly ram went fer him, an’ when Byles got hum, he couldn’t set down fer a week. So, as tar-an’-feathers were plenty at the Corners, I tho’t I'd come out and visit uncle.” “Think of preachin’ out here?” “Not till I git acquainted, Know wh-r uncle lives?” “What's his handle?” ‘*His handle?’ ‘*'Yes; his name.” “Oh! Why, he us’ter be Hank Wetherill, but I’ve hearn tell as how he’s got cunnel fixed to his name now.” Y ‘Ha! ba! I know where Colonel Wetherill lives,” and "Liza Jane’s eyes flashed and her cheeks flushed. ‘‘ He’s a stuck-up aristocrat, as lives on a ranch, jest out o’ Pokerville.” ‘* You don’t tell? Know him, then?” “T know all I want toof him. He’s a regular cuss fer meanness, an’ nobody likes him, they sa Bid % Where is Pokerville?” ‘Down below, where the gulch comes out on the bottoms. The colonel’s place is beyond the camp.” Ay Rice place?” “Scrumptious!” “‘ And Pokerville?” [ The hardest hole of its size, along the range, you bet. If you’ve got lots of wealth to part with, go there.” ‘*Not much! I want yer to guide me to uncle’s. Ill pay ye wages for it.” ‘*'You’ll have to excuse me. I do not care to go there.” ‘*Git out! Ef ye go with Jim Priggins, it will be all right.” The girl eyed him steadily. **You’re all right,” she said, “but if I was you, I wouldn’t go there!” ‘“*Thun— Imean Jerusalem. Why not?’ “You don’t know ’em. They’re a’ stiff lot. i Like as not you'd get snubbed!” The young parson’s eyes snapped. ‘Kinder look meek an’ preacher-fied is why ye think I’l] take snubbin’s, eh?’ he said. *¢ Well, all right. Ye don’t know me.” ‘Maybe not. But, if I were you, I’d wait till to-morrow.” “Why?” ‘* Because, there’s goin’ to be a wedding at the Elms to-night—a bang-up, wich tanee af- fair, too, which will be attended by folks from the army, from Washington, an’ blazes knows where—regular freeze-ye-up-stiff nobs, ye see, in silks an’ broadcloth. That’s why 1 allow maybe a country cousin wouldn’t be welcome.” Priggins was silent a moment. His eyes were riveted upon the ground, and the peculiar expression on his face was not easy to interpret. ‘‘T understand what you mean?’ he said, ‘* but I don’t keer a durned ef I’m welcome or not. I walks right in, ye see, an’ ’twixt you an’ I, Henry Wetherill dassen’t turn me out,” “‘Tndeed? He is a man who seldom attempts a thing without doing it.” ‘*That’s all right. Who's to git spliced?” “Theo!” ‘*Ts she a nice ’un?” “She is pretty—in a stony way—self con- ceited, haughty and disagreeably arrogant,” ‘*You two don’t hitch.” “No. As the tiger hates the lion, so the Wetherills hate me.” “ Why ? ‘¢T do not feel disposed to tell.” ‘Secret, eh? Who's the gal going to marry!” ‘‘A Californian, Clinton Carmen, by name.” ‘*Who is going to marry them!” ‘Squire Hines, of Pokerville.” ‘“‘Humph! Well, I guess you and I will take in that splicin’- bee, Miss "Liza Jane, so get ready !” He spoke as though it were a settled affair, and slid out of the saddle to let Mehetibel drink from one of the sluice-boxes, the water now running clear. “ Sir,” the Girl Miner said, ‘‘I told you I could not go.” “ Why not, pray?” ‘* For different reasons. come.” ‘Pl fix that. I want you to go, to show me the way.” She was silent a few moments, her eyes wan- dering toward the sun, which was nearing the horizon, but finally spoke: “Mr. Priggins, we are strangers, but I believe you to bea gentleman, and I will consent to accompany you, on conditions.” ‘‘Name them,” he said, quietly. “ Very well. Firstly, [havea morbid curi- osity to explore the Wetherill mansion, and i go with you, I propose to do it while the cere- mony is taking place. In this action I shall ex- pect you will not give me away.” ‘It is settled. Go on,” “The second condition is, that you perform the marriage ceremony!” ‘Liza Jane said, em- phatically. He looked at her in surprise that he made no attempt to disguise. ‘““Why do you wish that?’ he demanded. ‘* decline to answer, sir.” ‘* Well, it’s all the same, pa fed It is settled that if Theo Wetherill gits spliced, I’m goin’ to 8 I would not be wel- do the job. So ever g being settled, let’s be off as soon as possible. : “No hurry. They’re not to be married till eight or later, and it is but a short ride from here. I donot care to be seen in the vicinity until after dark. Let your horse graze, and we'll have tea!” She gathered up a pouch which contained the gold she had washed out that day, and led the wee to the cabin. ithin everything was in the rude style of the m but neatness prevailed every where. Jim gins could but admit that even a home, there was no more cheery evidence of @ home than within the Girl Miner’s abode. | |
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4 —————— *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. == — ~~ — | Liza Jane bustled about, and soon had a tempting repast set forth, consistin of dried venison, bread, coffee and huckleberries, not to mention a dish of wild honey to take place of butter. —S “Thun— Jerusalem, I mean,” Priggins said, delightedly; “this is ninety shades better’n any- thing l’ve struck for a fortnight, hanged if it gin’t. Wouldn’t mind puttin’ up beer, if ye don’t eharge tew much for board.” ‘¢T don’t run a hotel,” "Liza Jane replied, smil- ingly, ‘and, accordingly, could not accommo- | date you.” ‘“Youwre a queer ’un. bother ye?” ‘*Not often. If they.do I generally plants Yom. See that knoll across the gulch? That’s my cemetery. Got two Injuns an’ one tough planted there. Folks fight kinder shy o’ hyer, cause Dragon Gulch is haunted, you know.” “Thun— Jerusalem! What ?” ‘‘T remarked that this gulch aire haunted!” *Liza Jane answered, soberly. ** Haunted? By ghosts?’ ‘Yes, Did you ever see the picture of a dragon, sucb as us’ter promenade in former ages —the wiaged crocodile, with barbed tongue, eyes of fire and so forth?” “Yas,” ‘Well, such a monster haunts this gulch by night, at frequent periods. I suppose were diamonds strewn by bushels, bereabouts, no one would venture here, who knows of the dragon!” Priggins’s surprise had vanished; he seemed deeply interested. ‘The dragon,” went on ’Liza Jane, ‘is a ter- ror to the surrounding country. It is as near the size of a burro as anything else, but has the ap- pearance of a crocodile with wings. Its legs are longer, however, and thicker, and covered with scales, Its eyes seem to be balls of flame, and with fire leaping from its open mouth, it rushes by with terrific speed, bearing on its back, a human figure, clad in ghost] white. The rider’s face is deathly white, as 1s its beard and streaming hair, and this thing, for it is nothing else, is known as Don Dragon.” Priggins anakad, ” om seen it?’ he asked. “Yes.” Then she unslung a field glass from her belt, and gave it to bim. “Watch the painted board across the gulch,” she commanded. Shethen drew a revolver, and fired the six shots it beld. “Thun— Jerusalem!” Priggins gasped. ‘¢ Those bullets didn’t go a quarter of an inch apart. You're a dead-shot.” ‘Then, Don Dragon is not mortal, for if I Don’t no one never have fired at him and his steed once, I have fired a hundred times.” And—?” “Wasted my ammunition. So has evor man in Pokerville, I reckon. But, come; I will call my horse, and we'll be off. You may have an opportunity to see the dragon, to-night.” CHAPTER II. THUNDERBOLT ‘TAKES A HAND.’ ‘Liza JANE flung an oilskin cloak about her shoulders—for the heavens offered evidence of a storm’s approach—and, then, seizing her rifle, she and To. left the cabin. ‘Don’t ye lock up?” he asked, seeing that she left the door wide open. ‘*Ha!l ha! no, Little fear any one will enter es palace, during my absence! he then took a silver whistle from he~ pocket, and blew a peculiar blast upon it, which was directly answered, for an unbridled and un- saddled horse came dashing down out of the en. : It was a handsome sno : and spirited creature, and Priggins could but look ruefully at his own serene burro, which was browsing near by. Liza Jane sprung nimbly to her steed’s bac -white, clean-limbed as it paused near by her, taking no heed o Pri i Large ocpen ae ne : re out for yourself, parson. I can allus look out fer ’Liza Jane,” she advised. “But, Jorusalem! ain’t ye goin’ ter put on no bridle an’ saddle, D dere lady?” ““Nary! Thunderbolt wouldn’t bear one. We knows our P’s an’ Q’s, don’t we, beauty? Come, parson |” And che was dashing away down the gulch, nearly out of sight, ere the parson could get bis sorry beast way. The Gir} Miner, however, finally waited for him to come up, her eye dancing with mischief. “You'd do well to chase a road-agent—that is, so far as the agent was interested,” she “Thun— I mean, thar ain’tno road-agents in these parts?” he puffed, the ungainly canter of the burro having bounced him up a good deal. ‘Oh! you bet!” ‘Liza assured. ‘‘ They’re | thicker’n fleas on a Denver dorg. Never was to | Denver, eh? More dorgs thar than people. An’ road-agents?: Why, we’ve got lots of ’em, around here! Some gallus, bang-up fellers, too! Nigh every man in Pokerville bas had experi- ence at the business.” “Jerusalem! Ye ain’t goin’ that way?” ““You bet! Want to stop at the post-office, for a cigar.” Priggins looked horrified. ‘** You don’t smoke?’ he faintly articulated. ‘‘Bet I do! Have to, now an’ then, ’cause I’ve got to do suthin’ to keep my tongue still. Needn’t be afeared o’ Pokerville, tho’, when J’m around,” “Why not?” “ Oh! I’m the belle o’ that town, an’ what I grin at the gang smiles at, or draps! That’s where I got the dead-wood on old Wetherill’s gal. She likes me enough to dig my eyes out. She was soft soapin’ around old bald-headed Bixby, who runs the Demijohn—wuth a mint, he is:—so I stepped in, cut her out, and then sacked old Bix!” “Ts it really a bad town, miss?’ “ Well, some, I reckon, tho’ thar hasn’t been a plantin’ fer over a week. Can ye shute?” ‘‘I kin take the head off’n a squirrel every time wi’ a shot-gun,” he answered confidently. ‘“‘You’re the stuff, then! If a feller cums struttin’ along, wi’ revolvers stickin’ out 0’ his boot-legs, an’ luks cross-eyed at ye, as if he’d delight to make a meal o’ you, don’t ye scare, but pull yer pop an’ salivate him in the eye. Arier you plant yer furst man, all will be straight!” ‘“But, that would be murder!” ‘“ Pshaw—no! That’s only counted a dispen- sation o’ Providence, up in these parts. If a man screws his mouth at you, it means he’s on the rampage, an’ ef ye don’t plug bim le’ll lay ye on yer back!” During the remainder of the journey, Prig- gins was grimly silent, evidently ruminating over the prospectus that ’Liza Jane, dare-devil that she was, had so coolly laid out for him to | to subscribe to. About dusk they cantered down into Poker- ville, which was located in the mouth of the gulch, and looked out over a vast expanse of rolling prairie or bottom-lands, which stretched to the westward. Pokerville was practically a mining-camp of three-score of inhabitants, though it was, at the same time, a supply-station, and a herder’s or cowboy’s rendezvous, so that its population was made up of many grades of human beings —a heterogeneous mob of the rougher element of various races and nationalities, in which the roystering rough of the mines was most promi- nent. Few well-disposed people lived there, al- though the surrounding country was fairly well populated with a more estimable class of citi- zens. There was but one street, and all the shanties, cabins and tents faced upon this, the business part of the town being about the Demijohn, a combination of drinking-saloon and hotel, kept by old Blood Bixby, the richest man in the camp. acces from the Demijohn was the grocery- store and post-office, adjoining which was Hem- lock Harry’s gambling “palace,” known as the “Pour Aces.” Then there were several other stores and saloons, and the dwellings, which made up the — *Liza Jane had intimated to Priggins that Pokerville had been rather quiet, of late; never- theless there were plenty of ill-looking ruffians in front of the saloons, as the Girl Miner and the parson cantered down into the place. As they neared the post-office, "Liza Jane said: “Now, then, look your bravest, Priggsy, old gal, and mind you don’t let anyone look squint- eyed or pucker-mouthed at you. Have you got a shutin’-iron?”’ ‘““No—nor doI want one!” was the quiet re- ply, which ’Liza took as a hint that Mr. Prig- gins considered himself solid, without deadly weapons. At the ffice they drew rein, and ’Liza Jane left the parson to mind the horses, while she ran in for the mail. yer yr ma os red bi pone a, ] cery, when a burly-looking rough came ng down the street, with a confident awageer, and paused to stare at the parson, as he drew near. iC — eee He possessed a huge body, with limbs th: match, and his red, bloated face was terribl scarred and wore a week’s growth of beard, His whole appearance was brutal and disgust« ing, and the revolvers he sported in his belt detracted nothing from his ferocious aspect. ‘ Hillo, thar, me pioue-lukin’ tenderfoot, whar did ye cum from?’ he demanded, grufily, evidently calculating to awe the parson, from the start. ‘Come! come! chirp out, lively? “None of your business, where I came from!” Priggins replied, with coolness scarcely in keep- ing with his pious aspect. ; And Scorpion Sam, the ‘‘ bad man ” of Poker- ville, was surprised. ‘Did I understand ye right?’ be demanded, his face getting more fiery as he stepped close te the side of the parson’s burro. ‘‘ Did ye ven- ture to remark anything jist then?” And he leered insinuatingly, while a crowd gathered in anticipation of a ‘ funeral,” which Scorpion Sam had the reputation of being able to arrange on short notice. ‘“‘T did remark, I believe!” the parson said, quietly, ‘‘that it was none of your business, and I further venture to emphasize that re- mark!” Then there was a detonating spat, which was too quickly given to be readily comprehended by the bystanders, and Mr. Scorpion Sam dro ped serenely upon the ground, rolled partly over, and was quiet. Parson Priggins could notclaim all the glory, however, if so disposed, for, seeming to notice a long-looked-for opportunity, "Liza Jane’s fiery steed gave a snort and wheeling upon its hind feet, dropped its head forward, seized Scorpion Sam by the seat of bis trowsers, and raising him by the grip of its strong teeth, started off up the gulch at a dead run, amid excited shouts from the assembled spectators. Half a ps Sige one a little further—from Pokerville was the residence of Colonel Henry Wetherill, within the boundaries of his valuable ranch of a thousand acres, This ranch bad been located, and this resi- dence built, some three years before, when Pokerville was not in existence, consequently it was not known just how Colonel Wetherill came by the magnificent estate. Rumor said that the ranch had been owned first by an Arizona miner, who was partly crazy, and had been bought of him for a mere song, se to speak, by the colonel. Indeed, viewing the residence and its immedi- ate surroundings, one could scarcely doubt that the former owner was decidedly “ off,” ment ly, for fitting up such a residence in a wild, virtually unsettled country, at that time far from the nearest baunts of civilization, The residence itself was of block graystone, a valuable quarry of which was upon the estate. The house covered a large area of ground, and was like unto some of the old Spanish castles, half arsenal and half monastery, with towers battlements, strange gables, and great cent: court, with dark cellared apartments under the whole structure. There were numberless rooms, so numerous, said those who ought to know, that many were never used or entered by the Wetherills. Then, too, arumor had somehow got out that there were apartments no one knew of, and that spirits were wont to haunt these, sometimes a) ing at the top of the turrets at the dead of night. These rumors, however, were generally valued for about what idle rumors usually are, At apy rate, ’twas not to be denied that with- in doors the Elms was as near to @ palace, in the way of luxurious furniture and adornments, as a millionaire’s purse well could make it. Then there were fine outbuildings, a well- kept lawn, flower-gardens, a a natural pond, with the more dignified name of Lake Theo; a veled carriage-drive to Pokerville, = in ‘act, seemingly everything that could conduce to the happiness of a home, , The colonel was a man of means, ’twas said; ae he lived in the best style, had distin- guished visitors, in whose honor he gave grand receptions; was lavish with his money at the camp; had his grand barouche and retinue of servants; owned a thousand head of cattle and many sheep and horses, and had the help to look after them; yet there were but the two—father and ree poms A half-tipsy miner, at Pokerville, one men had said that there were more Wetberilis than two, when the ranch changed bands; but, as he had “ died with his ‘boots on,” the same hour, no one felt d te believe him. e lo Henry W: was not over-well liked by the Pokervillians; bot as Henry Wetheril's
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4 *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. ‘hired help numbered a small regiment of the -hardest fighting characters in that section, no one dared to try a rumpus with the ‘‘ Nabob,” as he was called. © was a man of forty-odd years, rather pre- possessing in appearance, with a portly form, a full, mustache-shaded face, silver-streaked hair, and dark intelligent eyes. He dressed well, used good language, and was apparently well-calculated for the position he eceupied. His daughter had been fairly described by "Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. She was eighteon, tall and of stately figure, but though pretty of feature, it wasof that cold, stony type of beauty which repulses rather than ‘attracts. As was her face, so was her temper- ament, cold, arrogant and haughty—and Blood Bixby, of Pokerville, who, after burying the second Mrs. B., considered that he ought to be he judge, stated that he would much rather make love to an icicle, if it was financially as well ‘backed as Miss Wetherill. She dressed grandly, was said to be accom- plished— And yet the Wetherills did not seem happy, te the luxury they lived in. hen out for their morning ride—which was the only time they were seen together— they never were known to smile, nor to ex- change a pleasant remark, as a sign of affection. Henry Wetherill now and then dropped in, of an evening, at Hemlock Harry’s, but no one eould say that they ever saw him smile and say it truthfully. It always appeared as if some great sorrow or secret were worrying him like a relentless phantom, k Another peculiarity of the Wetherills was the fact that they were never without a number of guests, all of whom were apparently well-to-do, and occupied a high social position. Army offi- cers and their families, legislators and distin- guished people were constantly coming and ing to and from the Elms; and Eight-Toed Eph. the stage-driver, boasted of having carried more “big guns” on his coach than any other man in the mountains, The seryants of the Wetherill place were numerous, but. one time-tried servitor, of the colored persuasion, named Suse, “ bossed ” everything from the an yt Se the wine cellar, And Suse was so near white that she consid- ered herself as good as “ white fo’ks.” In the Pokerville bank, it was known ‘hat Suse had the snug littlo sum of six thousand dollars laid by. emlock Harry did the bank- ing business for any one who had savings to lay by: the “Four Aces” was, consequently, the bank, Hence the marriageably disposed element was ‘struck’ after Suse, and all she had to do, when she wanted a husband, was to “nom- inate her choice.” Suse would imbibe, occasionally, however, and drop up into camp to fill her bottle, at such times as she didn’t care to go to the Wetherill wine-vault. On such occasions she would be a little newsy, and, then, only, the Pokervillians eould learn much of the goings-on at the castle, Henry Wetherill kept his ready cash at the Elms, evidently, for he had no banker at the camp, and had been known to win as high as fen thousand dollars of an evening at the ‘* Four ” 0e8. We have stated that few cared to declare enmity against him; yet there was one man who was not careful in making known his hatred of the Nabob—a pal, he was, of the gufuan Scorpion Sam, who rejoiced under the characteristic name of Liver Legs; though, how he came by the appellation, no one seemed to know, He wasa typical rough, and a boon companion of Scorpion , the camp bully. Liver had onze been in the employ of Hen- ry Wetherill but for some reason unknown to the publie, had reappeared one night, minus both eyes, and covered with blood. : No coaxing could induce him to give any ex- Janation of the mystery, more than to state Brat he had met with an accident, and would yet be revenged on the colonel. - ee Another matter which served to bring the Wetherills into more prominence to the gossip- mongers, was the fact that the Devil Don and his terrible dragon steed, seemed to haunt the vicinity of the Elms at night, and was said to have been seen on several occasions on the top of the great tower on one corner of the building, and could be reached by samag throug the house; and the occasions when it was thus geen were in the dead of might, at which time it surrounded by a weird spectral light. coionel had offered a large reward for a solution of the mystery, but no one stepped for- ward to attempt to “ lay” the thing, until— About the hour that "Liza Jane and Parson Priggins arrived in Pokerville, a stranger on horseback approached the Elms by way of the sinuous drive. CHAPTER III. ‘ IRON NERVE, THE SPORT. THE man who cantered leisurely up the shad- ed drive leading to the Elms, was one who would attract attention anywhere. Though young in years—for not over twenty- five summers had passed over his head—his whole physique was that of a man constantly inured to the hardships and perils natural to the existence of a free ramger. In stature he was of medium hight, and was attired in a costume of elaborately tanned and fringed buckskin, witt spurred top-boots, and # sombrero, ‘ His hair was cut shor, however; his hand- somely chiseled but suu-tanned face was destitute of beard, excepting a slight, well-trimmed mus- tache, giving him a more boyish appearance; his eagle eyes were piereing, yet with a wo- manly softness of expzession. He was armed with an elegant Springfield rifle, which, judging by the costly trimmings and-chasings upon it, had been the present of a friend or fiénda, His belt was also well supplied with smati- arms; and the deep black horse he bestrode was an animal of more than ordinary mettle. As if a Page of the spirited horse, did the meapeer ride, showing that he was a fine eques- ian. He rode up to the carriage-steps, and securin his horse, mounted the veranda, and sounde the knocker, The summons was answered by Suse, who started at the handsome sport, pot gira & ‘Does Colonel Henry Wetherill live here?” the stranger asked, tipping his sombrero politely, a mark of respect that at once won the gentle negress. **'Yes, sah! de cunnel libs right heah!” she re- sponded, ‘*Thank you. I haven’t a card, but kindly tell him a gentleman desires to speak with him.” ‘* What’s de name, sah?’ **Tron-Nerve.” “ De good Lor’ bress us, what a name! ’Spects de, boss isn’t at liberty, sah! House done chuck full vistors, sah—big-bugs, sah!” ‘* Never you mind about them, my good wo- man. You say to the colonel, that Iron-Nerve Nat wants to see hita on important business.” And the sport slipped a quarter-eagle into her ebony hands, which had the effect to cause Suse’s instant disappearance down the grand but gloomy hall. As she left the door ajar, Iron-Nerve entered the hall, and as he spied another door to his right partly open, and presumed it led intoa parlor, he stepped within, It was indeed a parlor—one of the grand- est the rt had ever seen, for the room in itself was large, and the furnishings were the choicest that a lavish expenditure of money could procure—quite astonishing, indeed, for that remote region. Upon a sofa, in one corner, sat a young lady and gentleman engaged in low conversation ; the lady was clad in a robe of pink satin, with cost- ly lace trimmings; the gentleman in black broad- cloth, white vest and tie, This lady was Miss Theo Wetherill; the well- formed gentleman, with tawny mustache, was Clinton Carmen, Miss Wetherill’s betrothed. He arose with a haughty stare, as lron-Nerve Nat stepped into the apartment. ‘Sir! you have made a mistake, I presume,” he said, in a freezing tone. ‘‘T presume not!” Nat replied, coolly, as he became seated. ‘‘Mr. Wetherill will join me, directly—tI will await him here.” ‘You will find the reception-parlor on the opposite side of the. hall, sir. Be kind enough to ep that way!” Miss Wetherill demanded. ‘Thank you Iam quite comfortable here,” was the provokingly cool dissent. ‘* Do not let me interrupt your -a-tete, in the least.” Carmen’s naturally red face assumed an apo- plectic hue, and he took a couple of steps for- ward, in great anger. ‘* Will you leave this room?’ he demanded in bigh anger. ‘Directly—after the colonel comes!” with imperturbable nonchalance. “But, I say now!” Carmen roared, his rage now at a boiling-point, ‘‘If you don’t leave this room at once, ’' throw you out, you ill- bred ruffian!” Po ROT AAID ens Se Seon e EEN AOE RET ENENATTOETST S k ‘*- You haven’t got the muscle todo it,” Iren- Nerve smiled. ‘' Beseated, sir, or youare liable to be taken sick, and won’t be able to play bride- groom, to-night!” | The words seemed to imply a'threat, and the sport’s hand dropped significantly to the butt of a revolver, Miss Wetherill sereamed. Carmen caught hold of a bell-cord, and gave it a jerk. ** We'll see!” he gritted. The following instant, a narrow door which & large pier mirror had hidden from view, swung inward, and two treacherous Mexican peons glided into the room. Their very appearance was a certificate of their evil natures, and what their duties were at the Elms. Iron-Nerve started a little, at their sudden appearance, but his face expressed no surprise or fear. “ At bim, Gila, Pipo!” Carmen bissed, savage- ly. ‘' Pitch him out of the house!” Instantly the two peons started for the sport, their black eyes gleaming, like these of a ser- pent. They stopped suddenly, however, for there were two rapid shots, and the tools of Clinton Carmen were whirled half around in their tracks —an ear cut off of each! “Now off with you, you fools, or the next shot will be te kill?” the young and now ppb: defiant stranger eried, with still leveled revol- ver. It was enough. With howls of fear and anger the two servitors vanished as they had come, . just as Colonel’ Wetherill burst into the room. “Who is shot?) What does this mean?” the colonel gasped, arp oe ‘‘Tt means that yonder puppy attempted to have me thrown out, by — hirelings, and shot an ear off of each,” Iron-Nerve answered, ‘to learn them manners!” ‘*In God’s name, who are you?—why are you here?’ the Nabob asked, his face white, and eyes wildly glaring. “‘T am Nat Blossom—usually nicknamed Irom. Nerve. I entered this parlor, and was ordered out. I didn’t feel disposed to leave, and the dude, youder, set the two .Greasers on me, Henry Wetherill, I came tosee you, on business, —not the dude! Let’s retire to the open air— the atmosphere, here, is decidedly too sweet for me. Come!” He stepped from the parlor, and out upon the veranda, where were several chairs. The Nabob followed him, and both became seated. The pallor bad not left the former’s face and he seemed to be laboring under a hard attack of nervous agitation, ‘‘Sorry to have harmed the Greasers, but I could not get around it,” Iron-Nerve remarked, as he lit a cigar. ‘‘No consequence. State your business!” Col- onel Wetherill rejoined coldly. “Correct. I just dropped down into this country lately, and while ata camp up here I came across a reward-notice with your name at the bottom of it.” “Well?” “ Well, being without much to occupy my time at present, I thought I’d run down and see what terms we could come to in the matter,” ‘‘None, sir, The mystery of the dragon can- not be solved, or else it would have been long before this.” ‘« Pshaw! you've never had the right galoot at thy.reins.” ‘‘ Have you seen it?” ‘“T have. It paid a visit to the vicinity of my eamp, a last night.” “Well? . — sleep easier if the thing was laid, I ear ‘* Who told you so?” ‘Heard so up at the camp.” The Nabob was silent for a moment. “Yes, Pll admit that the accursed thing is the horror of my life,” he finally said, hoarsely. ‘‘T can never know any peace of mind as long as it haunts the Elms and the surrounding country, as you may wel suppose,” * Has any one ever been harmed by it?” “Not to my knowledge, though dead men have been frequently found with no mark upon them to tell how they met their death,” ““Humph! merely a coincidence, likely. The so styled Don Dragon, who rides upon the devil» isb-looking beast, you think is a dead man?” ‘Tt has that appearance, I believe.” | 4 ‘Correct. I am of the same belief.” ‘Well, be aay Y ; brief with what you have to. swh =| afte nee \ iL ; 4
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“? | . | i , “*It’s a bargain. *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. ¥ “*T will. How much money is there in the job, from you, if I effectually lay this ghost, ghoul, demon, or whatever it may be?” “‘T offered five hundred dollars.” ‘*That was more for the name of offering it than because you expected that any one would exert themselves to earn so paltry asum. Do you know what I'll lay the dragon for?” ‘You have a mouth.” “Well, V'll wager ten thousand dollars I can solve that mystery and corral Mr, Dragon with- in ten days.” It was something extraordinary for the colo- nel to do, but he laughed. ‘*There’s not a man in this section but what’s failed to capture the Devil Don and his dragon. Ask up in Pokerville, and be convinced.” “From a rough estimate, I should judge there isn’t stamina enough in the whole crowd to scotch a rattler.” “‘Get them down on you and you'll likely think otherwise,” with a slight sneer. ‘‘ But PU tell you what I will do. You seem to have a great amount of self-assurance, which is all well enough, providing you can back it. You mentioned wagering ten thousand that you can capture the Devil Don and his dragon within ten days: V’ll bet you two to one you can not do it! “That is—twenty thousand against ten?” ** Exactly.” Are you ready?” "As soon as necessary. To-night the mar- riage of my daughter will take place. If you will present yourself, after the ceremony, I will have a contract drawn up, and you can deposit your money in the hands of any one of my dis- tinguished guests, and go to work.” “You will do the same?” 8 ¥, you require, although my reputation is ood, “*T am not dealing with reputations, sir. But we can doubtless fix it allright, There is another thing important to know,” Wen “Am I to have the freedom of the Elms in pursuing oy investigations?” “Certainly not. There is no connection be- tween the case and my residence.” ‘‘On the contrary, [learn the dragon has been seen upon the turret-top at nights.” ** Nousense—positive nonsense. The stairway to the tower can only be reached by passing through my bed-chamber, and the door has been sealed ever since I have lived here!” *Tndeed! Who did you buy the Elms of?” ** A Mr, Thornton—but that has no bearing on the case. If you undertake the job, I cannot have you prying abont my residence, for I am constantly entertaining distinguished guests, who would not care to be brought in contact with a man of your station in life!” The handsome face of Iron-Nerve flushed a i he otherwise showed no offense at the rust. **T presume I might have the liberty of your grounds?” he said, sarcasm in his tone. ‘Certainly, providing you remember your ition, and keep yourself strictly to yourself. ut, let me tell you, that you willeventually be more money in pocket by abandoning the ven- ture, at the outset.” Tron-Nerve smiled. “* We shall see!” he said. “TI do not propose to speculate with you alone, as there are others who would like to have the mystery ventilated. I will be on hand to-night at—” Ten o’clock.” “Very well. You'll have your servants ap- rised of my freedom about the exterior of the ms, or there’ll be more ears shot off.” “Tl see to it.” «Oh, yes, something I forgot. That was your Gangnies, inside?” “ec es.” “‘ She’s going to marry the dude?” “If you refer to Clinton Carmen, sir—yes. But, pardon me, what is a dude?” ‘A half-jackass and a half-kangaroo, sir!” “Mr. en is a gentleman!” “TJs he? Oh! well, times change, and I sup- pine people do. I’m off, now, Good-evening, An ww. d leaping into the saddle, the sport galloped away down the drive, upon the back of his hand- some black steed. The Nabob watched him ride away with a peculiar expression of countenance. “ He’s a strange fellow,” he muttered, ‘I was startled at first sight of him. He must have money, to risk such a igi as he bas, Capture the Devil Don, indeed! He isa wonderful man if he ean do that. Pshaw! he’s mad. The fail- ure of others ought to be enough to satisfy him. But, let him go. I'll be ten thousand dollars richer by the business.” “ Has he gone?” Carmen ventured out upon the veranda, with furious bluster, just then, well knowing that the Sport had gone, “Of course he has gone!” the colonel re- marked, ‘“ Why, were you afraid of him?” * Not at all, my dear colonel. I amsurprised that you do not know me better. Who is the fellow, anyway?” he demanded. ‘“A bard customer. Calls Nerve.” ‘* He should change his name to Brazen Face. Why, do you know, colonel, the impudent scoundrel] aciually called me a puppy, sir—just think of it, a puppy !” ‘** He did?” ‘He did; and more, he called me a dude, Do you know what a dude is, colonel?” ‘| believe it’s a new-fangled definition for a combination of ninny and ass, Carmen.” The deuce you say! Worse and worse. Iam insulted. By my soul, he shall pay for this with his life. Colonel, I appoint you to carry a challenge to him,” Wetherill looked disgusted. “Don’t be a fool, Carmen. The fellow’d kill you while you were winking. You go in the house and prepare for to-night. I'll attend to the insult.” ‘No! no! don’t you dare! The blue blood of my ancestors burns in my veins. I will have him on his knees, or take his life. Not to- night, maybe, but at another time!” And he bobbed into the house again, in high dudgeon, while the colonel sauntered away to- ward the stables, ‘* Tron-Nerve will come at ten to-night,” he mused, ‘‘and he—he will not go ck to Pokerville with ten thousand dollars. Pll fix the contract: then, after it)is signed, something else will have to be done, I hope Carmen, the idiot, will not throw himself in the fellow’s way. The example in the parlor is ample evi- dence of the fact that the name, Tron-Nerve, fits him well. He certainly means business,” himself Iron- CHAPTER IV. THE STREET DUEL—‘ IT IS A DEVIL.” To say that there was excitement in Poker- ville, just about the time of the startling acci- dent to Scorpion Sam, would be “ drawing it mild.” The bystanders shouted and swore, and some even ran swiftly in pursuit of the white steed, which was making off up the guich at a swift gallop, still holding Sam in bis powerful jaws. "Liza Jane, hearing the commotion, dashed out of the post-office, and ove giance sufficed for her to comprehend the situation. ** Stop yer hoss! stop yer hoss, Jane, or Sam will be killed,” several ot the Scorpion’s cronies yelled. “Do him good, the brute!” was the Girl Miner’s retort. ‘' He’ll know better’n to go meddlin’ wi’ my hoss next time, eb, parson?” Priggins’s face was pale and anxious, he evi- dently fearing that he was the direct cause of the bully’s death. “Stop the borse, Miss ’Liza?’ he entreated; it's en pe fault. 1 knocked the fellow down, and then the horse pitched at him.” ‘* Little Sunday-school | trick, that, what I learned Thunderbolt myself!” and ’Liza Jane actually laughed heartily. She then put two fingers to her lips and gave a shrill call, which echoed and re-echoed along the walls of the gulch. The effect was magical; for the horse spun varound upon his bind feet, as if worked by mechanism, but still held Scorpion Sani, sway- ing to and fro, Then the sagacious animal came trotting back, now and then shaking its head, spitefully, with the evident purpose of giving the Scorpion an extra stirring-up. He finally paused, and at a motion from ‘Liza Jane, dropped the terrified ruffian near where he had fallen, Sam gradually gathered bimself up into a standing position, and glared from one to the other in a dezed way, asif at loss how to begin to express his injured feelings. ‘* Well, what’s the matter, Sammy?” the Girl Miner asked. ‘‘ Been foolin’ around my Ara- bian, ag’in, have ye? How often have I told ye that he wouldn’t hev no one fussin’ around him?’ ‘*Cuss yer picter, I wasn’t doin’ ndthin’ to the hoss—leave it to the bovs ef I was,” Sam bel- lowed. ‘I war jest waltzin’ up ter shake hands wi’ the stranger, thar, an’ welcum him ter our ng mote | dc ‘5 ’ Sy ang ¥ eet =. eae = i - ta tas: — 5 ES TS ART RTE! OA ET RR RR TE tage ne 2 er RT camp, when be up an’ hit me a Waterloo right lum in the eye, an’ I stubbed my toe an’ fell. yg yer cussed beast gobbled me up, an’ made off, ‘Certainly. Served you ay a stranger comes to town, you’ to let him alone, eh?” ““Wull I? Guess ye don’t know who I am, do yer, gal?’ ‘*Yes, I do, right ’eute, Sam Sligo, an’ more’n that, I reckon you, an’ every other galoot in Pokerville knows whoand what Jam!” the girl retorted, fiercely. ‘‘?’m just the argument as says I ain’t afeard o’ forty wild-cats!” Tbe declaration seemed to carry weight, for a murmur of assent was heard on either band, which by no means lessened the Scorpion’s fero- cious scowl. ’Liza Jane had been located in the gulch only a season; but she was a daily visitor to the camp, and had demonstrated on more than one occasion that she was not only able to take care of herself, but was equally able to take care of any enemy who offended her. y the majority of the Pokervillians she was regarded with a sort of awe, because. of her reckless nerve, a8 they expressed it, in dwelling in the dragon-t aunted guich, and no other man than brutal Scorpion Sam would have thought of angering her, without first co: “dering the consequences, > . The Scorpion, -however, while .ucretly fear- ing her, had boasted contemptuously that any man as would weaken toa young woman was beneath his notice, and that he would in time illvstrate that Liza Jane was more bark than bite. ‘So ye ain't afeard o’ me, hey?” he roared, “me, whose ‘hoss-power is more’n. forty~leven wild-cats?” No; I am not afraid of you!” was the reply. ‘You're a big, overgrown, good-for-nothing loafer, and can’t scare me, if you can others. Youre) more, Sam Sligo—you’re a hang-dog villain.” Eyer since 1 located up the guich, you’ve tried to injure me by hinting various un- savory things of me. You’ve tried to turn the people against me. You’ve done all you could to create an untavorable and suspicious impres- sion of me, I burl itin your teeth, you dog— yon dare not deny it!” The Scorpion’s face reddened, and a mali- cious gleam entered his vicious eyes. ““Reckon every one’s a right to his own opin- ion.” he growled, with a wink at bis pals, “?Tain’t ’cordin’ ter reason thet ye’r’ a saint, nohow. Guess every one allows yé ain’t puttin’ rich out 0’ thet claim; an’ no one w’u’d live in Dragon Gulch what hadn’t some secret reason hid thar. Fact is, gal, ye’r ruther a ’spicious character, an’ ther fellers aire bout ’greed that it’s fair that ye ’splain severial things!” te What?” The Girl Mioer’s eyes glittered like diamiouds as she looked him in the face. “Ob! it don’t matter jest now; we'll settle that some other time. ragons an’ sich like kin be tolerated, but thar’s them as ’spects as how a’sploration mighta tale unfold. A gal stayin’ ail alone in sech a place ain’t accordin’ ter the laws o’ natteral history, an’ we law- abidin’ citizens don’t keer about livin’ in ther neighborhood o’ kerricters whose exact bizness standin’ ain’t known. Mr.—” “Stop!” ’Liza Jane interrupted, in a ringi voice; *‘ you need not mention Henry Wetherill as being largely interested in turning popular opinion against me, It isan open fact that he is my bitterest enemy, and is unscrupulously using every effort in his power to rid this vicinity of my presence. iis secret, for ail this, he is too cunning to give even to you who are his tools, Ha! ha! serve him if you like. I defy you all.” She shook her clinched little fist under the bully’s blooming nasal appendage, and turned toward her horse, but the ruffian pushed ber back, “Stand aside, ; don’t be in a burry. Allowin’ ye’re right, and all squerect, thar’s somethin’ else that ain’t settled!" ‘What?’ and her hand dropped mechanically to the revolver in her belt. ‘“‘ Just please ex- plain what isn’t settled!” ‘“ Waal, ye see,” Scorpion Sam went on, “ Pin calculated’ to be ther mayor o' this hyer cit», an’ am tharfore a pe to whom maueh re- spect is natterally due. I don’t mind pitti’ carved up a leetle ono’t in a while, but w a feller slugs me betune the eyes, like as if he war goin’ to sp’ile my entire landscape, ye Irian jest bet yer boots that aire very stool-pigeon has cot ter *pologize or fight.” And the bully glared at Parson Jim Poe Next time 1 know enough oo, wih es ere OP ee > Oe i oe Sha, Sy, a - i ~aehnxase! wa be ae Me ss ee ee ee ee Bo ee se RY or ee a
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» *Liza Jane, the Gi rl Miner. oe ROD cama ee or eo CE ae "Lisa Jane also turned toward him, to note that his face expressed not the least concern. ‘¢You hear, parson?’ she said. ‘‘ The delecta- ble, sweot-scented Sam’! demands an apology. €an you accommodate him?” For reply the young man slid from the back of his burro to the ground. *T presume so,” he said. it be, mayor?” ‘“What--wh—!” Sam blustered. “« How will you have it?’ Priggins demanded, “the satisfaction you desire. Shall I adminis- ter it straight from the shoulder, or will you have it by slicing, or in the leaden style?” ‘“-Ye won’t apologize, then?” “Most assuredly not. I have nothing to apologize for, as I acted in self-defense. You must either fight or crawfish, you great, whisky- shop loafer!” ‘Liza Jane was surprised. Likewise was the crowd. The meek expression had vanished from the arson’s face, and it looked decidedly as if he ntended to push the matter to a climax. You bet I'll fight!” Scorpion Sam growled, understanding at once that he could not bluff the stranger. ‘‘Cl’ar away to the sides o’ the street, boys, an’ make a pistol-range. Ker-scat! but won’t I do it up beauchiful fer this saint- manyfacterer!” “Pistols, eh?’ Priggins said. ‘‘ Waal, I once shot a hen-hawk over at the Corners: guess I mought hit sech a mark as you be. Pardner, lend me one 0’ yer little guns.” ** You bet!” Liza Jane assented. “Just you plug the tough right whar he lives, an’ I’ll buy ye a gold medal as big as a bar’)-head.” “Mebbe you’d better try it!’ Scorpion Sam gritted, preparing for the duel. “If you don’t swaller a heap o’ yer slack, curse me ef I don’t make a job fer the coroner, ‘““1"}] take yer word for it, Sammy. Every one’s dead loads afeard o’ you!” and she laughed scornfuily. Tne crowd had been cleared to one side, and twenty paces marked off in the middle of the dusty street. The two men then took their places without further ceremony. The parson was a trifle flushed in the face, but Otherwise perfectly cool. Scorpion Sam, with his usual appearance of braggadocio, did not seem much alarmed. “Get ready, gents, I will act for the parson in this funeral!” Liza Jane announced, as she took a commanding position, “ And if no one has any objections, I will act for the other man,” a voice cried, and Iron- Nerve Nat rode up, mounted upon his ebon steed. All eyes turned upon him in curious inquiry for an instant; then Liza Jane said: “Vory well, sir. Fair play’s the word. Are you ready, parson?” “All ready for the christening!” was the re- ‘* What way shall y. ** And you, Scorpion?” “ Ready fer the funeral!” he bawled. “Very good. Now let us understand the con- @itions. Are either of you desirous of ‘turning up your toes?” A grim silence answered. “Very well again,” the Girl Miner added. “You will therefore fire but one shot apiece. The one who pegs out will not be taxed extra fer an obituary. Ready! At the word three let er flicker)” The duelists raised their weapons to a level. and took what'appeared to be deliberate aim. “‘One!” “Two!” “‘ Three !” shouted ’Liza Jane. Crack! Both weapons spoke simultaneously, Neither man dropped. The en stood wiping a tiny bead of blood from the side of his face, caused by the wind of the bullet. Scorpion Sam, however, with his right hand clasped ‘to his left elbow, was dancing about frantically and howling at the top of his voice. “Ob, jumpin’ Jehosephat! Ob! oh! oh! my erazy-bone! my crazy-bone!” he yelled, for the bullet from the parson’s weapon had struck that sensitive place n the elbow commonly desig- nated as the crazy-bone. The crowd roared with laughter, which so in- furiated the rufflan that, forgetting bis pain in his rage, he raised his revolver and proceeded to pour a volley into their midst, thereby scat- tering them promiscvously. Parson Jim, however, and the two seconds kept their ‘places, and when the bully ceased firing ’Lisa dane ealled out: ‘‘Time! Hev you got enough, Scorpion?” “Wer to-day!” was the grim answer. “Til see ye all later.” And with that he shuffled off toward the ‘‘ Four Aces.” “Pat up your pop, parson,” "Liza Jane or- dered: ‘the blizzard aire over for the present. I guess we’d better go take a drap o’ suthin’ and then light out.” You don’t drink?” Priggins gasped. Lemonade wi’ a stick in it, occa- bee.” ‘* Oh, well, you can take a little mountain dew fer yours. That’s not hurtful, Join us, stran- ger? And she spoke to Iron-Nerve, who had dis- mounted. “Thank you,” he politely assented, and the trio walked toward the Four Aces, Miner motioning for the crowd to follow, “I seldom imbibe, lady, but will wash down our acquaintance this time.” ‘“This is Parson Prigeins, a tenderfoot from Monte-peel-yer,” ’Liza Jane explained, as they approached the gaming palace. ‘‘As fer my- self, I’m a pepper-pod, by name ’Liza Jane.” “And Iam known as Iron-Nerve Nat some- times Lron-Nerve for short.” They then entered jthe place, and ’Liza Jane ordered Hemlock Harry to set up the drinks for the crowd, Scorpion Sam bad just “downed” a ‘‘ hum- mer,” and was grimly leaning against the bar. “ Havea pull, Sammy?” the Girl Miner asked. “This is prime old stuff Harry keeps.” ‘“You go to thunder!” the bully growled, turning away. ‘‘I don’t drink wi’ enemies, by any means.” No notice was taken of this bluff, and he di- rectly left the room. ‘Liza Jane and Iron-Nerve stood chatting for a few minutes, seeming to have taken a liking to each other. Finally Iron-Nerve remarked: ‘If you’ve nothing more pressing, let’s have a game of cards.” Liza Jane glanced at her elegant gold watch and shook her head. ‘You will excuse me,” she said, ‘*but we must be off for the Elms. dark.” Iron Nerve started. ‘““Excuse me,” he said, “but might I inquire the nature of your errand there?” ‘Certainly. This gentleman, Mr. Priggins, isa relative of the Wetherills, and he being a stranger hereabouts I ventured to act as his guide. Come, parson, we will be off.” ¢And without giving Iron-Nerve further op- portunity for questioning, the Girl Miner bowed herself out of his presence, and she and the par- son quitted the gambling palace, followed by more than one curious glance, Iron-Nerve noted this fact, as he seated him- self at a table, ‘“Here’s a likely girl, occupying rather a questionable position,” he mused, listening to the clinking of glasses, and other sounds in the room. ‘' A miner, I judge, yet something about her indicates that she’s too shrewd to adopt such a life without some otber motive than money. Queer, what ideas will get intoa fel- low’s mind. Well, anyhow, the Girl Miner is a beauty, and I’ll try to keep her acquaintance, if nothing more, to drive away the blues. Heigh ho! I wonder what will be the result of my dragon venture? It will be a devil, indeed, if I fail to fetch it to time!” ** Ti is a devil !” The words came to his ear, in a shril] whisper. With an exclamation, be leaped to his feet, and glared about him. No one was looking at him—no one was stand- ing within a dozen feet of him. What infernal mystery was this? That was what he wonderingly asked him- self, over and over. It is already getting CHAPTER V. A NIGHT OF SURPRISES. THE Elms was literally a blaze of light, Almost every window in the grim structure, was lit with wax candles, and wreathed and festooned with evergreens. The great arched doorway and the veranda were similarly served, while from the branches of many a tree in the stately park, were sus- pended myriads of Chinese lanterns, No expense had been spared by Colonel Wetherill to make the event of his daughter’s | riage service, marriage one long to be remembered. “What! “Sartin! sionally, Every one has to take a drap now an’ then ter keep off the chills. Don’t you drink?” | “Thun— Jerusalem, no! Never got tight but once; then ’twas on hard cider, at a loggin’ the Girl | | ° : , ar : : ' cs ewe 4. eat ‘ _ 278 bie po a es ro ‘3 wi P- ' che . 3 ets a. “7 7 wt % Ny je ud Sa seestettnglte. ght MAAR ta Se A aes | sure’s you’re born RI ETD ATTESTED As many of the citizens, miners, and ranch- men had been invited, numerous tables were out on the lawn, and Chinese waiters glided about to furnish the guests with fruit and drinks. A military band had also been secured, from the fort, and the delightful strains of music up- on the summer’s night air, were intoxicating and enlivening. Within the mansion the more cultured ele- ment was assembled, the majority being com- posed of the colonel’s guests, only a limited few of prominent Pokervillians and their wives, hav- ing been asked to the ceremony, The three grand communicating parlors, with their dazzling lights and handsome furnishings were thrown into one vast apartment, and with the well-dressed guests promenading to and fro, looked not unlike the reception hall of a verita- ble palace. Tbe colonel’s guests were people of distinc- tion, who evidently occupied high social and official positions, there being officers of the army and a sprinkling of statesmen present— all of whom seemed to enjoy the fullest benefit of Henry Wetherill’s hospitality. The colonel, himself, nervously paced up and down the parlors, his face flushed and bis man- ner excited; yet, he assumed an unusually pleasant mood, It was already time for the ceremony and the guests became seated. Outside, the band was playing a wedding march, and the hilarity of the outer guests awoke the birds in the branches of the elms. Colonel Wetherill stepped from the parlor, @ few minutes Jater; then returned, followed b “‘toe Squire” ruddy-faced, and benignly smil- ing. fie was a meek-looking little man, with start- ling red hair and whiskers, and a game eye, The book he held in his hand, looked as if it had served in Noah’s time. The bride-elect soon thereafter entered, upon her father’s arm, while Clinton Carmen folk lowed, accompanied by his best man; after whom came anumber of groomsmen and maids, The rear parlors had been elaborately deco- rated and arranged for the ceremony, and here the bridal couple took their places. An open window, of large size, looked out at the left, upon a stretch of lawn that intervened between the dwelling and ‘the lakelet, and this was open, admitting a fresh, flower-scented breeze from the plains beyond. The bride was attired in a magnificent white wedding costume, which had been imported at a great cos;, and wore some rare jewels. The groom was also elegantly dressed, and looked as if he had quite exhausted the tailor’s art. A faint flutter was observable among the spectators, as the insignificant-looking little *Squire took his position, book in hand. ut the ceremony was destined not, to pro- ceed, yet, for into the parlor strode, no less @ personage than Parson Jim Priggins, who ap- proached Colonel Wetherill. “« Waal, by gum!” he ejaculated, putting forth his hand; *‘how do yeow do, Yuele Hank? Gosh hang it, shake! Hain’t seen ye since ye used ter run the grist-mill in Snake Hollow, up in New Hampsbiro. ’Scuse me fer interruptin’ the ceremony, but I’m gosh all-fired glad to see - 7 e. ‘‘ Sir!” Wetherill cried, drawing back. ‘‘ Are you mad, man?” ** Dog-gone it, no’ I’m yer nephey, Jim Priggins, an’ ye know it. ‘So don’t go to lettin’ on that ye don’t know it. I don’t keera durned ef ye aire rich an’ stuck-up; ye can’t go back on yer blood relations. Say, ‘Squire, you git/ I’m a reg’lar ordained preacher, an’ I’m goin’ to do this splicin’ bizness fer my own cousin, thar, ih ‘This is a;disgrace and an outrage,” the colo- nel cried. ‘Ladies and gentlemen, if you will kindly have patience, we will summarily dis- pose of this Jout.” “You will, will ye!” Priggins retorted, his face flushing and his eyes gleaming, while he whipped a pair of revolvers from his pocket. ** Now see bere, folks; I don’t want to turn this blessed weddin’ inter a funeral, but that’s what I'll do, ef ye try to come it too pormise’us over me. Uncle Hank, ye might as well givein, I kim out here a-visitin’, and since I got here in time fer the weddin’, why I’m goin’ ter hev the job, hey? I know ye don’t wanter—” ‘* Enough!” the Nabob interrupted, his face white and red by turns, ‘ I recognige you, sir. Ladies and gentlemen, this a nephew of mine. James, you are at liberty to perform the mar- ‘Squire, you are excused!” he colonel’s words were icily spoken, °S oe \
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rene RSs a ha vaney aE or, Somceasigl ~—a ee No one could doubt but what be was in a | great rage, which he was forcibly smothering. “ Beg pardon, colonel,” the Squire interposed, ** but would it not be well, to be positive that your relative is properly qualified to marry the eouple?” ¢ Leave the room, sir!” Wetherill thundered, ** His word is sufficient!” Ybhe red-headed little individual, thoroughly horrified, scooted away with so much alacrity, as to cause a titter of laughter. The colonel, his manner so wonderfully changed, then turned blandly to the man from New Hampshire, upon whose face was a placid smile. He then introduced the parson to Carmen and Theo, and the parson took ~nt bis book. A hush prevailed, when Priggins cleared his throat, and began to read thc marriage service. His countrified manner had for the moment vanished, and in a deep, impressive voice he proceeded with his task. He had got as far as asking: ‘Has any man or woman aught to say why these two people before me, shal] not be joined in the banns of holy wedlock—?” When suddenly there was an ear-piercing, blood-curdling shriek! It was more the shriek of some demoniac monster, than that of a human being—it fairly stilled the blood of those who heard it! All eyes, instinctively, turned toward the open window, and there beheld a sight that ren- dered them powerless, speechless—dumb with awful terror! Upon the lawn, near the window, was the Devil Don and the Dragon! Yes, the devilish-looking, fiery-eyed, flaming- mouthed, winged crocodile, and upon its back the white-robed, white-haired corpse |.ke figure of a man, whose eyes were closed and whose hands, waich were crossed upon the breast, were those of a skeleton! Tt was a horrible spectacle, which mast have eaused the bravest heart to quail, and around the fearful thing, apparition, or whatever it was, there was shed by some unseen power, a green- ish halo of light, which, with bolts of flame that leaped from the dragon’s eyes and distended jaws, made the spectacle even more weirdly in- ternal, Theo Wetherill saw it among the first, and fainted dead away, and so paralyz:d with ter- ror was Clinton Carmen, that he allowed her to fall, heavily to the floor. The others remained equally like statues, for several moments, and only when they were con- scious that the spectacle was gone, did they re- cover from the shock, Wetherill and tke par- son recovering first, ‘** Curses seize the infernal thing!” the Nabob gasped, advancing to the window, and pulling down the curtains. ‘‘ Ring yonder bell, Prig- gins, and order water.” The parson obeyed. Several of the ladies had fainted, and for half an hour the excitement was terrible. Soliciting Priggins’s assistance, however, the colonel finally got matters somewhat quieted down, among his guests. As none ef those on the lawn, in front of the house had seen the dragon, no report of the af- fair was allowed to disturb their hilarity. Wetherill explained all that was known about the monster, and then, urging his guests to have no furtber fear of it, he proposed that the wed- ding should be consummated, so Theo having re- covered, the bridal couple again took their laces, Priggins proceeded once more, and final- y pronounced them man and wife. The words had scarcely been spoken and the congratulations made, when a door opened, and Tron-Nerve Nat stalked into the room! The sight of him caused the colonel to. utter an exclamation, while Clinton Carmen smoth- ered an oath. “Colonel Wetherill, I am here!” the Sport said, in his clear tone, which penetrated every part of the room. ‘Are you ready?” “Jam, sir! Ladies and gentlemen, you will excuse mae, but I have a little business matter to arrang®” ** It enn be done here, before witnesses,” Iron- Nerve announced, coolly, as be saw it was the Nubob’s purpose to leave the room, ‘ {n fact, I eboose to have it done here!” “Very well, sir,” Wetherill assented, biting his lip with vexation. “ But, pray, sir, how eame you by these scratches upon your face?’— for the Sport’s handsome face was somewhat bloody, from a couple of trifling cuts upon it. “ Perhaps if you traverse the distance ’twixt here and Pokerville, you will not need to in- quire?” Iron-Nerve said, dryly. . P , x | ajc) ow *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. ‘* However, I will explain, that while on my way here, 1 was pounced upon by a brace of fellows, who wanted nry money or my life. As. I couldn’t conveniently spare either, just at pre- sent, I shot the one and knifed the other, I got the scratches in the struggle.” ‘Served the rascals right, sir,” the Nabob said, briefly. ‘‘ Now, how about the contract?” ‘None is necessary. Put up your money—I will do the same.” ‘* But the stakeholder?” ‘‘ Your relative, thar, Parson Priggins, will fill the bill!” ‘*lam afraid not. ‘Thirty thousand dollars is alarge sum to intrust in any man’s hands!” Wetberill sneered. ‘‘T presume some of your honorable guests will feel elated at your bewildering trust in man- kind!” Iron-Nerve suggested, dryly. “Oh! no—no: I made no reference to my guests!” the Nabob stammered. ‘See heer, uncle Hank, ain’t I a minister, an’ every inch as good as ary one o’ yer guests?” Priggins demanded, advancing toward the colo- nel threateningly. ‘‘Iwant ye to know I don’t knock under to no one, IT’jl hold them stakes, jest as t’other feller said, I’m honest as the pendulum ov a clock!” ‘* Yow’ll hold the stakes?’ Wetherill gritted, his face flaming with baffled malice. ‘« 1}] hold the stakes, an’ doit squar’!” was the emphatic reply, given in a way which pretty amen y signified that the parson proposed to have is way in the matter. ‘Very well!” assented the Nabob, but in a manner that betrayed his wish to throttle his nephew then and there. He turned to the guests, then, with a face wonderfully calm. ‘‘Excuse me, pray,” he remarked, ‘‘ but I will explain what may seem strange to you all, It concerns you somewhat, too. ‘To begin with, this character, calling him- self Iron-Nerve—a way of creating a big im- pression, these odd titles—came to me a few hours ago. He is a perfect stranger to me, but evidently having heard of the se\ eral failures to capture the dragon, he proposed to bet me ten thonsand dollars against an equal amount—” ‘Beg pardon!” lron-Nerve interrupted, ‘* You offered to bet me twenty against ten!” “Well, I was getting to that!” the colonel scowled, ‘‘ The man bets me ten thousand dol- lars he can capture the dragon within ten days. Since he s: ems so flush, and as it is worth a great deal to my peace of mind to have the capture made, | have agreed to put twenty thousand dol- lars against his ten. If he succeeds, Priggins is to give him the thirty thousand. Otherwise, itis mine, The ten days begin at midnight to- night. Is this correct, sir?’ ““T believe so. Have you your money, sir?” “T will write you a check in a moment.” “That will not do. It is the cash 1 want to see put up.” Wetherill frowned. How often, that evening, had his will been baffled! He was wondering what opinion his guests were beginning to form of him, ‘You are devilish particular!” he growled. ‘*Mv check is as good as the U. 8S. mint.” ‘Not tome. [ have here ten one-thousand- dollar notes ready to put up,” the Sport said, grimly, as he took a neat roll from his vest- pocket, ‘If you haven’t the amount, perhaps some of your friends cun lend you the balance.” And Iron-Nerve sneered in the blandest man- ner, which thoroughly infuriatéd the colonel. ‘*Curse vour impudence!” he roared, *‘ I have money enough to buy you, heart and soul, and Dl bet you fifty thousand to ten you cannot cap- ture the Devil Don and his dragon!” He rushed from the parlor, but soon returned, and placed a large roll of bills in Priggins's hands, “Count ’em!” he commanded, sententiously. “ Rifty thousand dollars!” cried the parson a moment later. ‘‘Correct! Cover them, Mister Iron-Nerve, and then rid us of your presence,” The Sport bowed and handed his money to the arson. ‘“ Now begone!” Wetherill ordered. “ Not jest yit, me mutton!” a voice cried, and Scorpion Sam, together with a number of Wetherill’s rancheros, marched into the room. ‘““We want that sardine, Iron-Nerve, fer mur- der im the furst degree!” He CHAPTER VI. WHAT WAS THE SECRET? THE sensation cavsed by the sudden appear- ance of the rancheros and Scorpion Sam, and j i tees ; Wri : \ ae ee ke ‘ Ee RL pie) BI) eat F TR ; ‘ SS Cre
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a RN 1 eh ee ce but you would also thousand.” Once in the hall, the Sport made his way boldly frem the house, and joined the crowd of half-tipsy revelers upon the lawn. Itis unnecessary to state that his eyes roved searchingly about, and that he expected an attack. But none was made. Scorpion Sam was nowhere to be seen, and among the revelers, the Sport saw none whom he ized as having been in the would-be lynehing-party. Concluding that there was no further use for him about the Elms that night, he returned to Pokerville, and turned in at the Demijohn for the night, as he was pretty well fatigued. And now let us return to the Elms. The festivities on the lawn were continued until alate hour; but within, the guests finally wearied, and retired to their apartments, or homes, as the case might be. If Colonel Wetherill had surmised, privately, that the events of the evening had excited a deal of curiosity among his friends and visitors, he was not wrong; for both the Pokervillians and his own guests, now had good cause to sus- i that Colonel Henry Wetherill was not what e usually appeared to the world. In the first place, he was by nature a strong- willed man, who would never give up a point unless for a most a reason. In the second place, the marriage of Theo to Carmen evidently was not a union of hearts— it was a bargain between stately, stony beauty and mammon, in which Carmen and the colonel seemed most interested. In the third. place, the colonel, with his iron will, had some secret—else why did he yield so many times to the benign-faced man from Ses a aR redoubtable Jim Priggins, and why did he shield the stranger Sport? Assoon as the guests began to depart, Colonel Wetherill suddeniy began to look around for the parson, for it was by no means his intention to let that worthy leave the Elms, with the wager money; but Parson Jim was gone, anda search failed to find him. At last the guests had all retired, and the house was shorn of its gayety, though the fes- tivities still continued on the lawn; for as the colonel had made no stint in furnishing liquors, the outside revelers were evidently disposed to “make a night of it.” In the grand parlor, however, three persons still lingered, The colonel sat at the table in a reverie. Carmen waslounging upon a sofa, smoking a cigar and looking satisfied. heo sat in a great easy-chair, apart from the rest, staring into vacancy, while she tapped her tiny foot upon the plush carpet, as if she were impatient. he was evidently undergoing several changes of mood; for now her face would wear that cold stony expression; then, it would soften, and her Sa re st olla ag —_> ‘ahi a he » . ae “f en - > malty
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FE “Yes ma’am,I do! An’ I keep her in bang- up style!” E ‘*So I should judge, if you are a sample,” the lady replied. ‘‘Have you a person stopping here named Nathan Norcross?” 2 ; ‘*No, ma’am; but jest keep that pistol in yer ket!” If you do as I bid, you'll not be harmed,” was the answer. ‘‘ You say no such party as Mathan Norcross is registered bere?” ** Yes, I do!” ““How bout Iron-Nerve? Any such a party as that?’ ‘* Ah! yes, I see—I see! Iron-Nerve. Ah! yes; he’s in bed, long ago.” The lady took a wallet from her pocket, ex- tracted a card from it, and gavo it to the major, who read tho name with manifest sur- rise. “Sh! nota word! Never breathe that I was ever here!” the woman warned, laying her hand upon the major’s arm. “ Listen! want to visit Iron-Nerve’s room for about two minutes, providing I can do so without disturbing him from his slumbers. ou shall accompany me, to see that I,do him no evil... Remember, yqu must swear to always keep this matter a secret. Now, what is your price, for the trouble?” j i The major was staring at her in open-mouthed astonishment, “Why, bless your eyes, I’ve no right to enter the man’s room!” he grunted. ‘Like to ’com- modate ye, ma’am, but ye sée it’s out o’ the question!” The vailed lady stamped her foot. “Tsay "tisnot! I merely wish to gaze once more upon the man’s face. Here is a bundred dollars! Will that be any Lag he "” ‘*No, ma’am, Come along, like-a mice. Luv affair, 1 s’pose? Wanter see his.face once more afore ye commit suicide, hey? ‘Oh! I. can read these tender sex like a book; Got a mash on a widder, myself, over in Howlin’ Bur. Sho lets on. she don’t keer fer me, butshe does—she’s déad gone on my shape an’ my genial thousands, Come r ght along!” a8 And the-rubicund host of the Demijohn Ind the way through\a hall and up,@ pair of stairs to the second floor. Here another hall ran trans- to his I's and listened. i Fergely yn, phot distance, down. this. Bixby Mia oor * , «” ** He's sleepin’ like a bi:rrro, [ reckon,” he whis- » ‘t Mind, now, disturb or harm him at our ye» » “Never fear,” was the quiet answer. The major then quietly opened the door, and ’ ‘the two tip-toed into the room, which was light- ed by a bar of mooushine that poured in through the window. The bed was so arranged that the moonlight m the face and figure of the ad, by force of habit, thrown ~§. ‘streamed in u >.) Sport—for. he vee a fupon the bed and dropped asleep, hav- ng only doffed his coat and vest, one of his eas upon the butt of a revolver in bis RACK ” He? iwas breathing regularly, and as sound asleep as a person well could be, a peaceful ex- pression resting upon h’s countenance. The woman glided forward and knelt by the bedside, at the same time raising her vail and revealing a beautiful face that wore an expres- sion of loving tenderness, as her gaze was bent upon the sleeper. Old Blood Bixby gazed at the face of the wo- man curiously, marking her every expression, even though his night-capped eyes were hardly fully opened for business. ging of moments the woman gazed steadfastly into the face of the Sport, as if she was trying to impress every feature indelibly upon ber memory. Then she motioned to the mar. ‘*Can you roll up his shirt-sleeve on his left arm without disturbing him?’ she whispered. “Lordy, no! The least stir would arouse a man like him!” the major gasped, trembling in fear of baving himself discovered as a partici- t in this mysterious nocturnal proceeding. “Never min |—I can fix it,” the woman re- plied, and drawing a ' of scissors from her et, she deliberately proceeded to cut a piece out of, the Sport’s white flannel shirt, near the arrow. A stifled cry escaped the woman as she saw it, and she bent forward and kissed the scar softly. © She then arose, restored the scissors to her pocket, pulled down her vail, and signified her readiness to depart. They left the bed-chamber and descended to the hotel office, ‘“Tam very thankful for your kindness, sir,” the woman said, “‘and I feelsure I can depend on your reticence.” “You bet; ’'m the mummest man in the world!” the major reaseured, ‘‘ Going, eh? Well, so-along! But, hold! Won’t ye hev an eye- opener before ye go?” “No, thank you. Good-by.” And she was gone ere the major could follow her to the door, ** Blast these pesky women!” he muttered, tak- ing bis eye-opener alone, ‘‘They’r’ a bigger bother than a bootful o’ snakes. Wonder what Tron-Nerve will say when he sees his shirt? Wish I'd taken the gal’s money. Worth every cent of it, to lie out of this matter.” CHAPTER VIII. DUMB DICK. As soon as ’Liza Jane reached her shanty she turned Thunderbolt loose, knowing he would not go far, and bathing her flushed face at one of the sluice-boxes entered the cabin, which bore the same appearance as when she de- parted, Lighting a lantern, she arranged the scanty furniture about in order, cleared away the dish- es left from the evening meal, and swept the room out, Next advancing to the southern wall-of the cabin, where a profusion of dresses, blankets and skins were hung, she carefully put them aside, As we stated previously, the cabin was built in the mouth of the ravine, which branched off from the main guich. The southern end of the building, however, was against the precipitous cliff where the mighty walls of gulch and ravine met. On pulling aside the -lothing a low door was revealed, Lantern in band, the Gir! Miner entered what proved to bea ave or subterranean chamber, with high ceiling and a floor area of at least fifty square yards. ) It was by no means barren of comfort, al- though the walls were of rock, for a cheery fire burned near the center of the adamantine floor, the smoke of which found eseape through a crevice in the ceiling far above. A rude table and a couple of stools were near the fire, as was also a rough cot-bed, covered with bear and buffalo skins. Partly bolstered up on this bed was a young man, who looked up with an expression of glad- ness as *Liza Jane approached and seated her- self at the table. He was evidently not over twenty-five years of age, and was attired in a coarse but service- able suit, His face and eyes were strikingly handsome, and his hair worn in a long wavy profusion down over bis shoulders, A graceful mustache adorned his lip, and a close observer would have noticed a little con- traction of the left side of his face, from the mouth to the throat, that indicated paralysis. His arms too were painfully drawn behind his back, as though bound there. There was.an intelligent expression about his face: there was a sorrowful look there too, but it partly vanished when ’Liza Jane entered. ‘Poor Dick!” the girl said, placing the lantern upon the table and drawing hur stool to bis bed- side, while her hand stroked his hair. ‘‘ Have you been lonesome whiie 1 was away?’ He nodded, with a patient sort of smile, It then became evident that he was powerless to speak, ““T have been to Pokerville and to the Elms,” Liza Jane continued, watching him. ‘I didn’t find out much, Dick, but I found out so nething. There’s a man in Pokerville who is the perfect elbow, counterpart of you.” Prepared to make a dart out er NA bm the open He looked surprised, excited, eager. door, should the sport awaken, old Blood Bixby *Liza Jane was also eager, as she noticed his looking on. interest. The deft fingers of the woman were not long She went on, passionately: $n accomplishing the work, and when the patch ““Oh, Dick! I believe everything will all come ~ of cloth was removed, a portion of Iron-Nerve’s | right yet. I pray to God that it will! Just a vhite arm was exposed to view. ear ago tonight—do you remember it?—I witseht where the cloth had been cut out was | found you, @ starving maniac, in the moun- the sear of a former wound. which, from its | tains!” a Pet. ae RR. OF ie ate neata ks peomagf - nite PRR RS EP Sa SES Nae Ta NET se agree = eer ig 9 He nodded, and tears of gratitude entered hie eyes, which gazed up into her face lovingly. “Yes, just a year ago to-night,” the girl re- ated. ‘“‘I was a wanderer—desperate, wild. had made up my mind to kill myself, but when I found you, a creature of God’s creation, as miserable as myself, the Divine Spirit told me to live—live for you; that a terrible wron had been done, and I could right it. I pray for strength to help me, and it was granted. I took you in charge and labored over you. The result has been great. You are no longer de- mented, Dick—you haven’t shown a symptom for a month ” He nodded. His piteously-grateful gaze never left her face. Oh! could his lips have spoken the feelings of bis heart, what gratitude and love for his faith- ful benefactor he would have poured forth! ‘* God has been good, and I know he will aid me in restoring you to perfect health and strength, and perhaps restoring your power of speech. Then, Dick, you can unravel 91) thig mystery.” Once more he nodded eagerly. ‘** This counterpart of yours,” "Liza .. ent on, ‘“ has come here and wagered ten thousand dol- lars he can capture the Devil Don and his dragon. I hope he can do it, but fear he can- not. Dick, do you know who this man is? He calls himself Lron-Nerve?” The dumb invalid shook his head. ** Did you ever have a brother, Dick?” He nodded in the affirmative, Ts he living?” A negative shake of the head. ‘* Are you positive?” "Liza Jane asked. ' He nodded in assent. “Then, perhaps after all this man is in no way connected with our case. The resemblance: may be merely a chance one. Have you thought over the name of Wetherill? Are you sure that that is not the name of your enemy?” Once more he nodded in assent, ‘* Strange! strange!” the girl mused. ‘Tam inclined to think Henry Wetherill is the man, but that you knew him by a different name, Did you read the long list of names I wrote for you?” He assented; then shook his head, to indi- cate his failure to find the name he wanted. ’Liza Jane had written upon the paper up- ward of two bundred different names, in hopes that he could find that of his enemy and indi- cate it to her. From the time that "Liza Jane had first taken the mute into her care, he had seemed restless, and when asked, had implied that he had an enemy, and it had been through his instrumen- oa 4 that he had been stricken paralyzed and dumb, Little by little the faithful gir] had eked out such information by questioning him as led her to believe that some terrible crime was back of all the mystery. After locating in the gulch, it was, she had heard the rumor that it was not known how Henry Wetherill came into possession of the Elms estate. This so aroused her suspicions that she at once set her heart upon the matter, and believed that Dick was connected with the case. One day she had taken him over the moun- tain and pointed out to him the Elms, and his eyes lighted up with recognition. To all her questioning, however, regarding what he knew about the estate or his past. his- tory, he remained literally ‘mum,’ shaking his head as if to deprecate all inquiry; yet a fierce gleam in his eyes on such occasions, satisfied *Liza Jane that he did know much, but would. not es it away—not at least until he could speak, and make everything clear. The Girl Miner was silent, in deep meditation, for some time after her last query. Then she seated herself at the table and picked up the latest Eastern paper. “It is the tenth of September,” she said, aloud. ‘I sent off for the battery over a month ago. Strange it don’t come. ce I get. that, Dick, if a series of shocks won't bring you to rights, I am afraid you are doomed never to speak, I have confidence, however, that the battery, properly used, will help you.” Dick shook his head and smiled faintly. He evidently did not have much faith in electricity. ‘‘ There was a wedding at the Elms to-night,” Liza Jane said, a few minutes later, turning te tke mute. Then sbe uttered a low cry of surprise. Dick was apparently fast asleep! ‘* That’s funny. I never knew him to asleep so quick,” she mused, listening to So ne i. Beet eae EK a Be ee ta ee eran
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20 heavy breathing. too.” She re-entered the cabin, leaving the hidden door partly ajar, as was her usual custom. Having no fear of being disturbed, and the night being unusually warm, sbe put up her hammock beneath the porch that covered the veranda and swung herself into it, for she felt the need of repose. The musical dash of the water through the sluice-boxes, and the sighing of the breeze through pines in the glen, made a sort of rest- ful symphony that soon lulled her to sleep. She had been asleep perhaps half an hour, when a rabbit, which had been hopping about the cabin in search of crumbs suddenly took alarm and bounded away. A footfall within the cabin had startled it. An instant later a hatless figure stole out upon the veranda with the stealth of a cat, It was Dumb Dick! His eyes were closed; but he paused, as if lis- tening. A moment later he glided down the path into the gulch, and strode away toward Pokerville. ’Liza Jane had awakened the moment he came out on the veranda, and lying perfectly still, had noted that he was asleep. ** He is a somnambulist!” she mused. ** Ah} he goes toward Pokerville. Am I at last to learn something?” “ She waited until he was fifty yards away; then, slipping from her hammock and seizing her rifle, she set out in pursuit. CHAPTER IX. THE ISLAND GRAVES AND A RESCUE. THE sun was up, and the town had been astir a long time, when Iron-Nerve awoke the follow- ing morning. Ashamed of his laziness, as he termed it—for he was usually an early riser—he sprung up and began to make his ablutions, preparatory to go- ing down to breakfast. “Nine o’clock,” he mused, glancing at his watch. ‘‘I ought to have had a morning ride by thistime. Hello! what’s this?’ He was brushing his heir at the glass when he discovered the hole in his shirt-sleeve. At first he was too much astonished to give further utterance, for it needed no critical ex- amination to prove that the piece had been scissored out. ‘Well, Pll be blamed!” he ejaculated, his face flushing. ‘‘ That’s about the checkiest thing I’ve seen yet. I'll swear there was no piece cut out of this sleeve when I entered this hotel Jast night. It’s taken out right where the scar is, which I got a couple of years ago. Humph! that re- calls the event vividly to mind,” and a grim, rather disappointed expression came over his face. “I had come down to Omaha with a load of pelts. When nearing the city I saw an Indian and a white man struggling with a girl, whom ey eee evidently surprised and were trying to abduct. I killed the devils and got the girl, but also received this wound. She was a school-girl—pretty Laura Leigh. I never found out much about her parents, as they did not live in Omaha, where she was attendingschool, but I found, after our third or fourth meeting, that J, a great, burly plainsman, was head over heels in love with the prettiest and most intelligent little lass in Omaha. Heigh ho! ’twas but a day’s dream, though. When I considered my- self the happiest cuss on the prairies, and, see- jug her affectionate bearing toward me, was about to pop the momentous question, she sud- denly es gente leaving behind this letter ”— and he took a crumpled letter from his pocket— “ which seared my heart as a red-hot iron could not do, ‘She thanked me for helping her to . while away an occasional hour and gratifying her penchant for coquetry, but I must never think of her again; her station in life was im- mensely superior to mine, and she boped I had not been foolish enough to make serious of our acquaintance; when she got home she’d implore the guv'nor to sead me some money as are- ward for rescuing her!’ Gods! how I could have crushed her fair face had I had her then! I bid Omaha a very abrupt good-by then.” Passionately the Sport paced to and fro as he uttered the confession, seeming unaware that his thoughts were uttered in words. His face was pale; bis eyes gleamed strangely. * Ab! about the sbirt!” he said, directly. ‘I had nearly forgotten about it. Some one en- tered here, while [ slept, and cut out the piece of cloth—more, they cut it out to see if that scar was on my arm! *“*Whodid it? That’s the question. Who for- merly knew me, knew of the scar, and is bere now, and enough interested in me to adopt the *“*T guess Pll take a nap, *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. ARE, SEPIA LORE eee stealthy method, in order to prove my identity? ip ER ee a SOR SCO — =e ‘‘Nary, pardner! Married a squaw, but ar- No friend, I'll swear! I'll wager old Bixby | terward planted her, ’cause she tried to raise can throw some light on this matter, the infer- nal old rum-sucker. Ill see,” He finished his toilet, and was about to leave the room, when an object caught his attention which he had not seen before. It was a lady’s white handkerchief, of rare texture. As the Sport hastily picked it up, the most de- | liciously peculiar perfume he had ever inhaled arose from it. Examination failed to discover any name upon it, or other trace of ownership. “Pll keep this,” lron-Nerve gasped. ‘* Great | my ha’r!” ‘Guess you’re not the party I refer to then.” His horse having been brougbt around, he leaped into the saddle, and dashed out of the camp, toward the open country. ‘‘Phere’s something queer about this,” he mused, as he galloped along. ‘‘There seems)no way of my solving the mystery. But, solve it I will, if it takesan age.” Avoiding the E!ms, he rode along, so preoc- cupied in meditation that he scarcely noticed where he was going, until he found himself up- on the shore of Lake Theo, opposite from the God! can it be that [am to be again thrown in | Elms, the way of false, heartless Laura Leigh?” He rushed down-stairs, into the bar, to find the major behind it, waiting on a couple of miners, ‘6 Ah! good-morning, Mr. Iron-Nerve, to see you looking so fresh and rested,” and the major’s ruddy face glowed like an April sun- beam. ‘Step up, sir, and let’s have an eye- opener.” “Thanks,” Iron-Nerve replied. ‘‘ My eyes are sufficiently opened already. By the way, major, is one of your attractions, at this hotel, ghosts?” “Ghosts!” the major repeated, in evident as- tonishment, well knowing what was coming. “Why, bless your heart, no.” ‘* Who has charge of the keys at night?” “T do, sir, aside from those furnished each occupant of the rooms,” ‘‘Then, perhaps, you can explain the mystery of that?” Iron-Nerve said, thrusting forward his arm. ‘‘ Some one entered my room, while I was asleep, and cut that piece out of my shirt!” ‘* The devil!” gasped the major. “T can’t say if twas he or not,” Iron-Nerve returned, grimly, ‘‘ but it was a devilish mean trick, Major, you know who did it!” ‘I hope to drop dead if I do,” the major de- clared, stoutly. *‘ I’ve no idea, sir.” ‘‘But who could have entered my room with- out your assistance?” ‘‘T have no idea! { have no idea!” Tron-Nerve drew his revolver, and leveled it:at the host’s heart. ‘“‘ Major,” he said, sternly, ‘‘ I believe you are lying tome. Doyou tell me whom you admitted to my room, .or I’}] clip a piece Off from the lower lobe of your left lung!’ “Mr. Iron-Nerve,” cried the major, folding his arms, ‘‘I ama man, and not afraid to die. Shoot me if you like, but I know nothing of the affair.” For a moment Iron-Nerve was fairly stunned, for he felt positive the major did know. He then put up bis weapon. “Tf you are telling the truth I ask your par- don,” he said. ‘‘If you are lying, you’ve nerve enough to warrant you in getting safely through purgatory, on your own book, We'll have the eye-opener now.” The major made haste in setting out the best the house afforded, while he secretly flat- tered himself that he had saved losing a good boarder, Iron-Nerve said no more, but hastened in to breakfast. After satisfying his appetite, he put on his hat and ordered his horse for a ride. While waiting on the veranda for the horse to be brought, he struck up a conversation with a | miner, who, he soon found out, knew every one, and pretty nearly every one’s business in Pokervilie. ‘Not manyywomen in the camp, I take it?” Iron-Nerve remarked. ‘‘Durned few, an’ most all married, as it is. "Liza Jane’s ’bout the peartest ’round byer- ways.” “A likely girl. here, not?” Family named Leigh lives “Leigh? Waal, thar ain’t much o’ a family. | Hyer comes the head o’ it,” and the map indi- cated a giant, rough-looking miner, who, mount- ed upon a mule and accompanied by a sneakish- looking dog, had just ridden up. ‘* Heavens! Tron-Nerve’s thought. b “Hello, Leigh,” sung out the Sport’s in- formant. ‘Hyer’sa feiler as hes bin inquirin’ about the Leigh family. Guess you’re’bout the full deck, hey?” The giant spat out a huge quid, and looked at Iron-Nerve, speculatively. ** Yas, the bull family’s prisent—Bill Leigh, Jerusha Leigh, and Carine Leigb.” t “You're not possessed of a daughter, or niece, then?” Iron-Nerve queried. that can’t Le her father!” was | | wide, Glad | This sheet of water was about a mile anda half long, from the Elms to its end, where I[ron- Nerve halted, and was not over half a mile The water was very clear, as the lake was remarkably deep, and nearest ifs center was adensely-wooded island, of not over a half- ecre’s extent, which gaye the lakelet a pic- turesque appearance. Henry Wetherill had caused a. tiny sail-boat to be placed upon the waters, and there were also several row-boats, ; One of these, a light two-oared skiff, was anchored about fifty feet out, from where Iron- Nerve had halted. ‘**T’ve a mind to capture it, and row over to the island,” he mused. ‘‘I hardly think the haughty colonel can object.” He led his horse into a slight arroyo, near at hand, and then, equipped with a lasso, ap- proached the water’s edge. A skilled throw of the lasso settled the noose over the bow of the boat, and he soon had it ashore, Springing in, he pulled for the island. It took but a short time to reach it, and beach- ing the skiff, he plunged into the hardly penetra- ble thicket of chaparral, which grew upon the isle, to the water’s edge. After considerable labor, he reached the mid- dle of the isle, where there was a slight clear- ing. Fine to his unbounded surprise, he found two mounds, which he rightly concludéd were graves. One was overgrown with grass: the other was fresher. Who was buried here? Some of the Wetherills? Iron-Nerve judged not. Henry Wetherill was a rich man, and would not likely bury his family here, without erect- ing something to mark the spot. “There’s more than one secret about the Elms, and I fancy I'am on the right trail!” the Sport muttered. ‘‘ The girl "Liza Jane, is con- cerned in trying to ferret out something, too, if I mistake not. I'll try to join her to my inter- ests, the very next time we meet. As for these graves, I mean to see who is in them, ere long. Hello!” The wind had increased, and it was growing suddenly dark. “It’s a storm. They spring up, quickly, in these parts. LI presume my best pian will be to remain here, until it’s over, as ’m booked fora ducking, anyhow! The sound of excited voices caught bis ears. He hastily crept toward the side of the island nearest the Elms. Here, a swift, sweeping glance, discovered several things. It was getting very dark, the wind was in- creasing in velocity, and a deluge of rain was but a few minutes off, at the furthest, That was not all. Driving down the lakelet, under full sail, and swaying to and fro, like.a drunken thing, came the Wetherill sail-boat—a mere toy in the grasp of the tornado, a wreck. Theo and Carmen were the terrified occu- pants;—’way down at the further end of the lake, an excited crowd were shouting and ges- ticulating, like so many lunatics let loose. Carmen was doing his best to keep the boat from going ashore, for it was aiming for the island, but it was a hard job. His hat was gone—he looked like a frenzied pirate. Theo, uttering appeals for help, was clinging to the side of the boat, white as death. ‘The boat’s a goner!” Iron-Nerve muttered, “hut he ean save the girl, if he will.” Carmen had now got the boat headed too far away from the island, and just as the rain be- gan to descend, in torrents, a sudden gust cap- sized the craft, when she was a good hundred yards from the island. “Swim! swim!” Carmen shrieked, bimself Certainly it was doomed to be * | .
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PP |S |. .s el striking out for the mainland, leaving Theo struggling in the water. ‘The cursed brute!” escaped from Iron- Nerve’s lips, and the nex mstant his jacket was off, and he was in the water, swimming toward her. ‘Cheer up; keep afloat!” he cried. you!” He saw her go down, and his heart sunk within him, but with superhuman strokes, he sped through the water, and caught her, as she arose for the last time to the surface, “Thank God!’ he gasped; then, placing her on his back, he struck out for the island. At last, in a nearly exhausted condition, he reached it, and laid her fainting, upon the ground. The storm was now nesring the hight of its fury, and he could see nothing of the mainland, and was satisfied that none of those, thereon, were certain of Theo's fate, The rain upon ber face quickly revived her, and he assisted ber to arise. ‘May Heaven reward you, sir, for your brav- ery!” she said, gazing at the tempest-tossed waters with a shudder. ‘‘Did he get ashore, sir?” ‘Your husband you mean?” he said, ‘‘Yes—no! I mean the contemptible coward who was with me!” She spoke witb terrible bitterness. ‘*I gness he got out, all right, although the storm hid him from view, so that I am not cer- tain.’ “Ob! why! oh! why did he not perish?’ she mogned, clasping her hands, in agony, and seeming not to realize the Sport’s _aptapsae “ff you will step furth«r into the chaparral, you will not be so much exposed to the storm!” he said, to change the subject. Sbe turned toward him, with a startled ex- pression. ** Excuse me—I forgot you when I was speak- ing. But, it matters not. I care not who knows my hatred for him, whom I am forced to wed. But we’re not married yet—oh! no! no! no /” she almost screamed. Iren-Nerve wondered if she was going mad. ‘\Be calm!” he enjoined earnestly. “Calm. Hal ha! no! Dll be stormy—who wouldr’t?” Then she turned and gazed at bim, with her searching eyes, now black as jet, in her excite- ment. * Who are you?” she asked, abruptly. **T am called Iron-Nerve. I was at the Elms, last night.” **Were you? Excuse me. I didn’t see you. I was stupetied with drugs, given ‘me to make me marry Clinton Carmen. Oh! I comprehend, Lat ar at the house, earliér in the evening?” SS “Then, forgive me for my part in what oc- eurred there. It would have cost me my life to have done different. You do not know the Elms, nor the inner life at the Eims, and con- sider yourself fortunate that you don’t!” *Thank you for your confidence, Mrs, Car- men; but there is nothing for you to forgive.” “ Mrs. Carmen ?” She laughed contemptuously. ‘* When I am wedded to Mr. Carmen by proper authority, then I will be Mrs. Carmen. Until then, [am Theo Wetherill. Priggins is a detective, not a minister. Do you remember the tower— But stop. Iforgetsometimes. I’d get twenty lashes were it known I am so thoughtless. I seldom get free from restraint, and when I do—” And her teeth shut together with a click. She was silent a few moments, shuddering oc- casiovally at the fury of the storm, Finally she turned to him. ‘*We are strangers, sir—that is, you never saw me before last night?” ‘* Not that I remember.” * Well, itmattersnot. It will probably be so arranged by the colonel that we will be stran- rs bereatter, But I think I can trust you.” *1f you desire, I will vouch for it!” ‘‘Bnougb said, I have something here I want you to take and keep for me until I call for it,” and she took from her pocket a richly-carved silver snuff-box, the lid of which was se led shut with wax. ‘This is it. This box contains something Carmen would give much to destroy. It also contains that of which, did I possess the missing tink, I would be the happiest woman alive. Take it, sealed as it is, and keep it. Should I die, if you are near, bury it with ” *Tll save me. : ““¥ will do_so, Miss Wetherill, and you can rely on me. It is something of a novelty for me to take charge of a Jady’s trust, but [ am square in all my dealings.” e, ZS ee a0 he bs 'g ee i Ne ne Sal metal ein tel, it tN + Ny agg, A vk, 11 “ Ah! if that could only be said of all men. You are a single man, sir?” “ I am.” S “ews propose to hunt the dragon?” 20,” ‘*Be careful, sir, for my sake. You have saved my life; I must warn you to keep watch for your own safety. Perbapsit will be saying enough that you are not popular at the Elms.” ‘* No need to tell me that. Isee the storm is somewhat abating. As soon as itis over I will row you home. My borse is at the lower end of the lake, but I can trust him to remain there un- til you are safely home.” “Thank you. I shall never forget your kind- ness.” The sky began to lighten rapidly, and the rain to cease; so [ron-Nerve pushed through the thicket to the further end of the island, and rowed the skiff around to where he had left Theo, Assisting her to a seat facing him, he then pulled toward the mansion. Half the distance was accomplished, when they suddenly saw Carmen and a ranchman on the right-hand bank, near which they were pro- ceeding. “Hello, there! Pull ashore here!” the ducked dandy cried, hoarsely, ‘‘ Ull take charge of that lady myself!” “Will you?” Iron-Nerve shouted back. ‘1 reckon you won’t—not till we reach the Elms!” ‘*Curse you! pull ashore, I say’’ Carmen yelled, furiously. ‘* Hear the jealous fool!” Miss Wetherill said, with asmile, ‘‘ You will not mind him, sir.” ‘* Certainly not!” Iron-Nerve replied, bending to the oars and causing the skiff to fairly leap over the water. Carmen followed along the shore at a run, howling anathemas at each bound, so that he reached the Elms landing only a moment after the boat, and just as Iron-Nerve was assisting Theo. to alight. Up to the Sport the infuriated man rushed, fairiy frothing at the mouth in his rage. “Curses s»ize you!” he yelled, seizing the Sport by the shoulder; ‘‘ why didn’t you pull ashore when I ordered you to?” Take your hand from my shoulder, sir!” Iron-Nerve ordered, threateringly. ‘** Answer me!” shrieked Carmen. He got his answer witha suddenness that was wonderful, tor the Sport’s hardened -right fist shot out ina well-aimed blow and struck Car- men full in the mouth with such force as to knock him a considerable distance out into the water, where he would have drowned but for assistance of two rancheros, who got him ashore in a senseless condition. ‘*See here, sir!” Henry Wetherill cried, stri- ding up. ‘Tl bave none of this work, Why did you hit that gentleman?” ‘“‘ Because I chose, sir, A man who will leave a lady to drown, deserves killing! I have re- turned your daughter, sir, in safety, and will bid you good-day!” “Stop!” Theo cried. ‘‘ You shall not go, until my father thanks you. More, your horse is at the other end of the lake, One of the men shall go for it.” ‘*Excuse me, Miss Wetherill, for that would be useless. No man on your ranch could touch that animal, without my being present.” ‘The gentleman knows best,” Henry Wether- ill said, half scowling at Theo, ‘‘and has my sincere thanks. Come, Theo—you must change your attire,” Theo turned, and seized the Sport’s hand, ‘*T, too, thank you, sir, and you shall not lose by to-day’s ducking!” She then turned, and followed the Nabob into the mansion, whither Carmen had already been carried. CHAPTER X. *LIZA’S BOLD VENTURE, AND IRON-NERVE’S JAM- BOREE. *L1zA JANE, as she stealthily pursued the trail of Dumb Dick, could not conceive where he was going, for her discovery that he was a sompam- bulist rather upset all her calculations. Eagerly she followed, however, believing that through this manner of procedure, she would gain some further knowledge of the mystery that concerned his life. For half an hour they moved on; then, Dick aused and looked back, as if, in his somnam- ulistic state, he heard his pursuer. *Liza Jane stood perfectly still, in the shadow of the gulch wall, and finally the sleep-walker hurried on, again; nor did he pause, until he had passed Pokerville, and stood within a hun- dred yards of the residence at the Elms. . ~ kK i he ee = aS es Ce ee TS Sp EN ag et : See om "Lima Jane was not a hundred feet behind him, her face flushed with eager anticipation. Ob! if she could only solve the mystery that enveloped the hfe of him, whose welfare she held so dearly at beart—for she luved the speech- less man, whom she had so faithfully watched over, and she was not mistaken in ber belief that be loved her in return, with all the power of his manly nature, As he paused under the shadow of one of the trees upon the lawn, “Liza Jane saw him raise his gaze toward the tower of the mansion, al- though his eyes were closed. This tower was high, and at the top had been so built, that a number of persons with a small cannon or gatling gun, could command a large sweep of the surrounding country. A man could stand on its top within its forked irregular stone railing, and see everything that was going on below, without exposing much of his person to bullet range, Below this surmounting battlement, there were singular little grated windows in the sides of the structure, which looked as if they might furnish light for dungeons within. Toward this tower the mute’s face was turned, and ’Liza Jane’s gaze was turned that way, too, but she saw nothing but the gray stone, and the grated windows. The lawn was deserted, for the roysterers of the wedding festival, had gone, and there were no lights visible in the Elms, to indicate that any one was awake, Dsybreak was not far off. *Liza Jane wondered if Dumb Dick would stand there forever, for she grew impatient, at his inactivity. The answer soon came, for, with a peculiar ery he turned mechanically, and strode back toward Dragon Gulch. “Pll let him return!” "Liza Jane mused. “* He’ll go all right, I'l] guarantee.” Accordingly, she did not return with him, but crept closer to the Elms. Her eyes burned with a stern, resolute fire. ‘There are secrets about that place, and it is for me to find them out,” she said, to herself, ‘*Poor Dick bas a claim here, I shall always be- lieve, and if I am right, po power except Al- mighty power, shall keep him from baving his own. I am here, once more, to-night, and [I shall not leave witbout at least guining some knowledge. My exploration of the house, a few hours ago, did not satisfy me. I was in nearly every apartment, from cellar up, but not in the tower. I found but one door leading to that, and that opens off of Wetherill’s bed-room. It was nailed shut, and is not to be easily opened, There seem to be no secrets. about the house, unless they are locked up in that tower. If there, I will soon know.” Beginning from the ground, a net-work of vines crept up the cold gray sides of the tower to the battlements. To ea person of practical judgment, these vines would hardly have ap- peared strong encugh, to bear up under the weight of a squirrel; and certainly the most venturesome climber would have shuddered, at the thought of risking life in a rash attempt to reach the turret-top, by way of the net-work of vines. Yet the piercing gaze of the Girl Miner rested upon the fearful ladder of chance, speculative- ly, noting almost the turn of each twig and stem, as if had reached upward. ‘*T wonder if I am crazy,” she murmured. She crept forward to the foot of the struc. ture. Examination proved that the vine growth was of two species—that of the true Virginia creeper, and of the real Irish ivy. ‘‘] believe I can go up to the top, without their giving away,” she mused. ‘I can try it a ways, anyhow!” She secured her revelvers and knife, carefully —slung her rifle to her back; then witha prayer for safety, she began the perilous ascent. During the first ten feet of her movement she tried and tested the green ladder with all her strength only to find that the tovgh strands clung tenaciously to the cold wall. All fear leaving her, now, she climbed rapid- ly, and in a few minutes stood in the top of the tower! She felt like yelling, then, to give vent to her feelings of triumph, but not knowing what rils she might yet encounter, concluded that er wisest course was to keep decidedly quiet. Looking dewn into the park, sbe calculated that she was fully a hundred feet abov@ terra jirma. Turning her attention then, to her the tower was berely large eneugh for 5 ee, present position, she found that the space in the ee rere i Ae oe he ee pea ipl ge: Fe Sens pal Dit aS = | _
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12 eee dozen persons to stand in, comfortably. The flooring was of planks, and a small trap-door was included therein. A shudder passed through the girl’s frame, when she noted that there were numerous blood-stains upon both the walls and floor. ‘Some foul crime has been perpretated here, I'll wager!” she mused. ‘I wonder if it will be healthy for me to goany further, in my explo- rations? I can’t more than get killed, any- how!” With a revolver, ready for use, in one hand, she cautiously raised the trap-door, and peered down. Darkness greeted her vision, at first, but after a steady look, she saw an occasional bar of pale light, which she concluded came in through the windows. Means of descent were furnished by an iron tadder, which was fastened to the wall by bolts. Who had built the place, bad built it’well. *“ Whole hog or none!” ’Liza Jane muttered resolutely. ‘' I don’t see any death’s-heads lurk- ~ around, anyhow.” he next minute she was going carefully down the ladier. Before expecting it, she was foreed to hait, for she stood upon a tiny landing by a narrow window. Peering out, she perceived that she was Rie on a level with the roof of the man- on. From the platform, a spiral stairway ran on downward, dark and gloomy. On the window ledge was a lantern covered with cobwebs, but ’Liza Jane found to ber joy that it contained a piece of candle, and there was a slide to shut off the light. Producing a match, she lit the lantern and closed the slide; then cautiously continued her descent, She soon came to where a door branched off, and she judged that it was the same one that opened ioto Colonel Wetherill’s bed- chamber. The stairs continued on, however, and she fol- lowed them. In the course of five minutes, and when she calculated she was some distance below the sur- face of the earth, sho came to the end of the staircase, and found herself in what was evi- dently an underground passage or cellar. Wondering if she was doing right, she rash the lantern-gate, letting forth a bar of ht. eat the same instant the lantern was dashed from her grasp, and a heavy cloak thrown over her head, after which she was seized bodily and borne swiftly off. She struggled fiercely, but all tono use. She was powerless in a giant’s grasp. Realizing this fact, and that she bad nothing to do but succumb, she ceased struggling, and allowed her captor to hurry her away—but where? Alas! she knew not. from the landing, Tron-Nerve turned awa ed toward the man- as the Wetherills proce sion, He looked back but once, and then he saw Theo wave her hand to him just as she was about entering the door, A strange expression was upon bis face; his eyes burned with an unusual fire. “That woman, by Heaven! Ialmost— But haw! it’s madness to think of such a thing. ere is nothing about her that reminds me of Lanra Leigh, or I’d swear ’twas she!” be mut- tered, as he strode along down the bank of the lake toward where he had left his horse. He took from his pocket the crumpled envel- ope, and extracted from it a photograph which had never been mounted. His eyes gazed at the icture, his face wearing an expression of touch- sadness. t was a round, rosy, plump, girlish face he saw—a laughing, sweetly-mischievous face, too retty to seem real, with its pouting little mouth, brilliant, expressive eyes, and the well-shaped head, with its wealth of hair arranged with careless abandon. There was nothing stately or dignified in that face—nothing cold or worldly, yet those eyes— {ron-Nerve fairly trembled as he recalled the expression of Theo’s eyes while she was excited- ly talking upon the island. “* My God! I believe it is the girl!” he gasped. ‘*Bverything seems to tare that way—the cut sleeve, the costly bandkerchief, the trust she put im me, Curse it, this matter is unnerving me! Am I again under the influence of the heartless chit of a siren who once wounded me? Does she think to play with me again, asa child would with a puppet? No! a thousand times no! Be she who she may, she shalj not trifle with me. I’m done with women, IT’ll have nothing to say toher. Let her go to the dog she says she hates. He cannot, break her heart, for she bas none!” Grimly he spoke, and it was a relief to bis tortured mind when he found himself once more re ge saddle and dashing back toward Poker- ville. He looked so stormy when he strode into the Demijohn that Major Bixby began to feel chills creeping down his spine, in anticipation of trouble in store for him. But the Sport simply ordered a drink, after which he went in to dinner. Henext took a smoke, on the veranda, where he was joined by the major, who desired to make himself as ‘ solid” with Iron-Nerve, as possible. The latter seemed moody, and sullen, how- ever, and little inclined to be sociable, It oc- curring to bim, however, that he had not seen the parson around, he inquired of the major concerning bitu, ‘Tbe person, eh?—the meek-faced chap w’ot fit the duel, wi’ Scorpion Sam?” “The same!” [ron-Nerve answered. ‘‘Du no as I hev seen him since he got | this mornin’. Though now, come to think, did hear him ask a miner, a while arter, if "Liza Jane were around.” ‘Who is that girl, major?” “Dunno no more ’bout it than you do, sir. She squatted in the guich, several months ago, put up her cabin, an’ hes bin thar since, All that I know is—she an’ the Wetberills don’t pon an’ she knows how tolook out fer Number ne,’ ‘*T should infer as much,” the Sport assented, languidly tipping back against a pillar of the veranda, ‘‘! think Pll take a nap.” Considering himself dismissed, the major went inside to take a “ tonic.” For a couple of hours, Iron-Nerve dozed pleasantly; then he was awakened by_ the major, who held a magnificently mounted and effective-looking bull-whip in his hand. ‘Here, lron-Nerve—aiv’t it a beauty!” the host cried, triumphantly, ‘“Thar ain’t another sich in the mountains.” Iron-Nerve looked it over approvingly. “Tt isa good one!” he admitted, handing it back—but the major refused to take it. **No, no—keep it,” he said. ‘* Keep it.” ‘* What use have I for it, pray?’ “Plenty, sir, *twixt:you and me! Iron-Nerve, there’s music iu the air. I jast got an inkling that Clinton Carmen is coming up here to horse- be you.” ‘“ Indeed?” ‘“You bet! Ye see, Suse—the nigger servant at the Elms—Suse, she war up heer, an’ told me to put the flea in yer ear.” “Humph! Is it possible I have one friend at the Elms?’ And the Sport smiled grimly. ‘* tt’s the whisky, sir—it’s the whisky. When Suse’s jaws ain’t relaxed wi’ corn juice, she’s mum as a mice.” “ Ah?” ‘** Exactly. An’ Tain’t told ye all, pard. The a heeled.” ‘** You bet—with a score or so of rancheros. After he has licked ye, they’re goin’ to tar an’ feather ye, tie ye toa hoss wi’ a cactus under his tail, an’ set ye a-goin’ fer furrin parts!” Iron-Nerve uttered a dry sort of laugh, and his eyes glittered dangerously. “So, that’s their programme, eh? Well, you'll see how well thev’ll succeed in carrying it out. Vil keep the whip. Just send a waiter up to my room for the extra pair cf revolvers that I left on the stand.” The major gleefully dispatched a Chinese servant for the weapons. A shrewd business man, was the major. He foresaw money in his pocket. If a fight oc- curred at the Demijobn, he was likely after- ward to do a brisk trade at the bar. About an hour afterward, while still sitting upon the veranda, Iron-Nerve saw a posse of rancheros, headed by Clinton Carmen, coming up the street. Buttoning his jacket over \tbe bull-whip, he —, awaited their approach, taking note as they drew near, that there were fifteen of the party, including Carmen and Colonel Wetherill. e party soon came to a halt, in front of the Demijohn, and the Sport then saw that none of the men wore any weapons visible about their persons—which, Bikivrs did vot deceive him, for he knew they carried them in conceal- — ment; but Carmen carried a formidable bulk whip in his a. He looked as if he had been badly ‘‘Jeft.” His face was so swollen that one eye was nearly closed, and two of his upper front teeth had been knocked out by the Sport’s blow. Tron-Nerve could scarcely repress a smile at sight of him, and sat eying the party in quiet inquiry. “‘Mr. Iron Gall, I would heave a word with you!” Carmen cried, importantly. ‘* You would?’ was the response. ‘* Then spiel out! I can hear you without disturbing my siesta,” ‘* You coward, dare you step into the street?” Carmen yelled. ‘““You bet!” was the cool reply, and jerkin his whip out from in under his jacket, he leaped from the veranda, out into the street, CHAPTER XI. VAMOSING THE RANCH. ‘Taza JANE, the Girl Miner, had no doubt, ag she was borne along, that she had stumbled into an unenviable trap, and that an unknown terrible fate was in store for her. Her captor ran swiftly for a short distance— then suddenly debouched into a large, subter- ranean vault, or chamber, which was lighted by numerous bonfires, 4 The chamber bottom covered ah extent of fully an acre, and its walls were composed of stone masonry. The ceiling was planked to keep dirt from falling, and supported here and there by ponderous stone pillars. The ground floor or surface was of sandy formation, and rough and irregular, large seams and holes proving that gold had been mined for here. The bottom was also muddy in the lower por- tions, but at the further side was a level eleva- tion, containing a number of wigwams of skins, and here, too, was a fire. From this main chamber, in every direction, branched off narrow hall-like passages, which probably penetrated into the bowels of the earth. As ’Liza Jane’s captor approached the wig- wams, he gave vent to a peculiar ery, and three masked, bearded men, in miner’s garb, darted from a neighboring Deere They took the Girl Miner from the grasp of her captor, who was also masked, and disarmin her, bound her hands behind her back, alos bade her be seated on a camp-stool. The whole four, then, retired to one of the passages, consulting in low tones as they went. *Liza Jane was surprised at this, for her feet were not bound, and there was nothing to hin- der her flying away. She waited several minutes, and as no one re- turned, she set her teeth together, fully deter- mined to make an attempt to escape. She was aware that she could run like a deer, and she knew that nothing short of a bullet could stop her, once she had an opening, unless some one headed her off. Rising, she darted forward toward the en- trance to the passage by which she believed they bad made ingress to the main chamber, To her great joy she gained the entrance and rusbed into the passage. The next instant her elation turned to terror, as the howl of a bloodhound broke upon her hearing. ‘‘Great God! I shall be torn to pieces!” she gasped, running as she had never run before. On—on—on! and the yelp of the savage pur- suer grew nearer. 3 Suddenly, in her blind rush, she banged against a door which barricaded the way. The tremendous force with which she struck the door, burst it ope and she fell headlong upon the threshold, her senses leaving ber. When she recovered consciousness, she found herself in what appeared to be a wine-cellar, for numerous barrels and cases of bottles were strewn about. She was lying upon her side, and squstting beside her, holding a lighted candle, was a fat negress—no less a personage than Suse, the Wetherill family servant. ‘*De Lor’ bress ye, cbile, ye done hab a nar- rer scape,” she said, as "Liza Jane opened her eyes. “How d’ye come in de secret mine?” ‘““f climbed the tower,” our heroine ~asped, ‘“The dogs—where are they?” “ Whar dey nebber trubble no one .uwssy. I done cotch ’em, cut deir throats, m’ fro’ d¢ miners off de trail!” “Then, am I safe—are you my friend?” “Bet your life I is, honey. Sase is ebery: body’s friend but Hank Wetherill’s; be hab te pay fo’ my friendship,” eS ee eT ee woe | | .
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east. Miner. *Liza Jane, the Girl * Where is he?” A f ‘*‘Done gone up to Pokerville, wid de gossoon Carmen, fo’b to clean out de huckleberry ce miss. Ob! dar’s fearful goin’s-on at de Kims, to-day, missy—feartul goin’s-on, suah!” “« How do you mean, Suse?” “On! de Lor’, missy, I can’t ’splain eberyting missy, all at once; but, bress ye, ole Suse knows de bull t’ing frum beginning to end!” * You do, Suse?” "Liza cried excitedly. ‘*Do you know of the Elms’s past hist’ry, Suse?” “ Bberyting, missy—eberyt’ing. I wouldn’t tell you dis, gal, but I hope fo’ God, dis am Suse's las’ day at de Elms!” ‘* Are you going to leave, Suse?” “Deed I is, miss, ’deed 1 is! Dar’s bin bad doin’s to-day; de guests am packin’ up to leab, an’ Suse is gwine, too. Dunno where, missy, but any w’ar's to git out ob de reach ob de hell- hound, Hank Wetherill!” ‘“Snse, come to my home. I will hide you, and you will be safe. Ere long I intend to leave this vicinity, and you shall go with me.” “ Bress youh, chile—Ill do it—I’ll do it; but de Lor’ knows, I can’t go an’ leab de missus.” ‘The mistress!” ‘*De gal, chile—de Missy Theo, Dar she be layin’ up in de library, a-moanin’ till ye’d done blubber right out, wid her back all cut up in stripes. Ob! it’s awful!” Liza June arose, white and stern, ‘* Por God’s sake, explaia, Suse!” she said. **} will, missy, de best [ can. You knows she was married. Well, de marriage wassn’t legal, or suffin’ like dat, an’—well, de cunnel has allus whipped her, but to-day was de wust— Lor’, deed it was! ‘“Youh see Carmen took de young leddy a- gailin’, an’ de storm come up, dis forenoon, an’ capsize de boat, Carmen swum ashore an’ Theo done was rescued by de Jron-Nerve chap. Dat make Carmen awful jealous, an’ he git knocked down an’ bis front teeth done knocked out. Well, when he come to, he demanded of de col- onel a marriage at once. De missy ’clare up an’ down dat she nebber would marry him—dat she lub de Iron-Nerve, an’ nebber marry any one else, Den de cunnel knock her down an’ Car- men kick her. Den dey strip her to de waist, an)-while Carmen hold her de connel whip her till she faint. Den dey go off up to camp to. lick de Sport. I skins up ’head of ‘em an’ gibs wara- in’, an’ byer I’se back ag’in.” “God Bites you, Suse! Though this may bea dark day for some, you shall never regret it. I'll guarantee a better master for the Elms soon. Now let me see, Iron-Nerve can take care of himself, Miss Wetherill must be at- tended to first. What time is it, Suse!” ‘Nigh sundown, missy.” “So much the better. gone, Suse?” “‘T go see, honey.” Do so, and return quickly.” Suse was not gone long. When she returned her eyes were literally as big as saucers. ** Sich folks!” she said. ‘Dey hab done jest lef’ de Elms, bag an’ baggage, an’ am trampin’ up to de camp to catch de stage. Dey done jes’ g0 off an’ leaf de missy alone, an’ so hab de servants. Guess eberybody scart out ’cept Buse.” “The day is a dark one for Henry Wetherill!” the Girl Miner said, grimly. ‘Take me to Theo.” They left the vault. In five minutes they were in the grand li- brary, where Theo lay upon the sofa, her face buried in a pillow. She was moaning piteously. Suse and ’Liza Jane knelt by her side. “Sister,” the Girl Miner said, ““dre you badly burt?’ Theo’s tearful face looked up in piteous sur- prise. ‘*You here?” she gasped. ‘‘Oh, Heaven! do true friends come when enemies leave me? Why are you here?” “To be your friend and help you, dear.” F ae I have always treated you so badly! a RE) “Don’t think of that, Theo. I have heard of your trouble, and I pity you,” and she bent for- ward and kissed the pallid brow. ‘This is no Fst for you, dear. Every one has gone, Itis kely Garmen and the colonel will soon return. My home is open to you, Theo, Will you come with us? Suse is going too.” A gad look came over her face. “Yes, I will go with you. May God bless you for taking me away from here!” She arose with an effort, and Suse helped her to make preparations to leave. they were thus busied ’Liza Jane toak Have the guests all Fee ip a stroll through the house, which was now de- serted. When all was in readiness Suse procured three saddle-horses from the stable, which they mount- ed and then set out on their journey to the Girl Miner’s cabin. *Liza Jane knew she was undertaking a re- sponsibility that was liable to bring her trouble, but she was none the less resolute and brave. It was dusk when they left the Elms, so that | they were not seen, and by passing through the outskirts of Pokerville fthey got into the gulch without attracting attention and reached the cabin in safety. Here they found Parson Priggins seated in ) Mig mics ate to theme Son to ae ae the doorway. ‘lve been waiting for you all day,” he said. ‘* The stage man at the camp had a package for you, and so [ offered to fetch it up.” “Tt’s the battery!” "Liza Jane cried. ‘‘ Now I'll know if Dick can ever speak or not.” They all entered the cabin, and thence went into the cavern. Dumb Dick lay upon his couch, fast asleep. ‘* The fellow near startled the wits out of me, a bit ago,” Priggins said, ‘I didn’t know of this secret apartment until I saw bim suddenly emerge from it and go out for a drink of water. He looked at me suspiciously, then returned to the cave.” “He is paralyzed—te cannot speak,” ’Liza Jane said. ‘I hope noone else bas seen him during my absence.” ‘* But there has. While he was after the water, Isaw a man, a piece down the gulch, watching him. When your mute came in, the man went toward Pokerville.” ‘© A spy!” Liza Jane said, grimly. ‘‘ Tl not be surprised if Henry Wetherill’s gang attack the cabin to-night.” She then explained to Priggins concerning her recent adventures, ‘*Wetberill has about run to the end of his rope. I bave sent for ‘letectives to help me ar- rest him. He is wanted in the South for mur- der and abduction, of fifteen years’ standing.” This was said low, but reached Theo’s ears nevertheless, ‘¢ Murder and abduction!” she cried, excited- ly. ‘Atm T oot bis chia?” ‘No, ma’am. Yon @fe of a fine Southern family, from whom Wetherill stole you out of revenge. I have been bunting you for years, and Wetherill knows it—knows that only a desperate course of action can now save him. Theo, you are my own sister!” Great excitement then followed for the mo- ment, and warm was the reunion of the brother and sister. In the mean time, ’Liza Jane was engaged in preparing the battery, and the others became deeply interested. At last she had it in readiness. “Tam going to experiment with my last hope for poor Dick,” she explained. “If electricity won’t relieve him, nothing will.” He was lying upon his side, still sleeping. His hands were partly unclinched, as they had so long been, in their position behind his back. She ar ct the two electric handles into hit grasp and placed the battery on the chair. oo next instant she turned on the full ecar- rent With a wild yell, he rolled from the bed and gained his feet, He had lost his grip on the handles, and his aren and hands were back in their natural posi- tion He gazed at ’Liza Jane with an expression of profound gratitude; then, suddenly seizing her ae arms, he turned to the spectators and said: ‘*God is good. Glory be to His name!” CHAPTER XIL AWFUL DOIN’S, Let us return to Pokerville. “Dar’s been awful goin’s-on to-day,” the negress, Suse, said to Liza Jane, and yet she could hardly realize in full the truth of her words. There were awful goings-on, but they had only fairly commenced, When Iron-Nerve leaped into the street with the whip in his hand, it is only fair to say that Clinton Carmen was surprised, for he did not anticipate that two could, on so short notice, engage in a game of cowhiding, He therefore shrunk back, but the hissing voice of | Will you beg?” Henry Wetherill in his ear caused him to courageously. “Don’t you show the coward!” the colonel com- * dhrors Haare alynlonag Aili) sila sestedtl ron-Nerve advan un ble stri distance of the dandy, when. he paused anys race up Carmen with a stern, unwavering that made | .“ You won't , eh!” he leered. “ Wi give the villain quail. : jouton ongamedecs how port aia nee ‘ gf 4 so Oe Ha o, hana > Ne e= a ae RR Re TE ate ae a i Oo eg ae “aseatis | | 13 ee am here, Sir Dude!” he said. “State your er rand.” ask that,’? Carmen sneered. ““You need hardly “*T have come here to thrash you within an inch of your life.” “After which, you having satisfied your erie, you'll turn what’s left of me over to your intend daddy-in-law to tar and feather, and then send me off on a horse with a cactus stalk under its tail, eh?’’ the Sport cried, with bitter emphasis. ** Exactly, sir. But how did you learn so much?” and both Carmen and Wetherill stared.‘ *T am not a circulating library of information, sO f cannot inform you. Are you ready to pro- ceed?” ‘“‘That’s just what I am,” Carmen declared. ““You’re going to stand up and take it like a man. They are all armed !”’ “Yas, an’ thar’s a few o’ us in the same predica- ment!’? Major Bixby yelled, leaping down the steps. “ See hyer, ye skunks, thar ain't goin’ to be no mon- key business’round heer. Eh, Pokers? See fair play, won’t we?” And the crowd yelled assent. As a majority, they rather liked the Sport, and did not like Wetherill or bis rancheros. ‘* Yas, everything’s goin’ to be squar’ ’round hyer, if the court knows herself!"' eried a plucky miner well named Battle. ‘ You two fellers aire so fond o” one another, ye’ve jest got ter strip an’ hev it out, lickety-cut! e’ll see fair play an’ no favors.” This proposition was greeted by another cheer from the Pokervillians. Henry Wetherill uttered an oath. “This shall not be. The Sport is too much for my friend. I'll give five hundred dollars to the man that will capture the Sport.” Iron-Nerve felt that he was in jeopardy, and the offer maddened him. Quickly raising the whip, he struck the dandy a cut across the face that laid the flesh open. At the same instant a dozen of the roughs, from both sides, sprung upon the Sport. But he was not taken, His knife was in his hand, and he used it with ter- rible effect, for with awful quickness, be had made a clearing, and a dozen dead men lay upon the ground! Then a pistol-shot struck him near the heart, and he fell like a log. A great yell of victory went up, and he was seized and bound. “He is not dead!’ Henry Wetherill cried. “‘Re- store him to consciousness, He shall pay dearly for this work!” Iron-Nerve had not been severely hurt. But for the fact that he had slipped the little box he had received from Theo into his left vest-pocket, his heart would have bees pierced by the treacher- ous shot. He was revived without trouble, and surrounded by the rancheros, each of whom held a pistol leveled ready for emergency, in case the resolute man should attempt escape. “Now, then!’’ ( olonel Wetherill cried, “ I presume ou’ll admit that you'll take a cowhiding, you in- fernal rough!” ** ¥on have the temporary advantage!” TIron-Nerve “ew “but if it is your turn now, it will be mine next!" “Will it? You'll find your next turn in eternity. Boys, tie his hands in front of him and cut the clothing from his back, To-day will demonstrate that I run this ey “Yas, that’s right, cunnel—you an’ I runs the town ourselves!” broke in Scorpion Sam, who had fired the shot at the Sport. ‘“ It’s a blizzardous day when I an’ the cunnel don’t have our say.” Iron-Nerve’s wrists were bound in front of him, as had been directed, and the keen-edged knives of the ranchmen soon had all the clothing cut awa ang he upper portions of his body down to h t. He submitted to all this, his face set hard, and his eyes gieaming. Nothing was to be gained by 4 bold attempt to escape. He well knew he would be shot down be- fore he could get a dozen yards away. Of those who had offered to back him. there were now but half a dozen, including the major, the best share of the crowd haying sided in with Witherill’s gang, in hopes of getting a slice out of the offered. five hundred dolars, or of having a good time at *4e colonel’s expense. Bixby and these few, who were in the minority, as compared with the Nabob’s crowd, stood ly to one side, looking on, and realizing that they were powerless to render assistance. As soon as Iron-Nerve's back was bared, Colonel Wetherill turned to Carmen, who bad been tying up his cut face. “Carmen, now is your chance, Fiurry up and get through with this matter, for expect to have other work to do before this day is over.” et seized the Sport’s whip, whieh lay on the ground. “Ha! ha!’ he cried, with devilish exultance. * You bet I'll attend to the fellow in proper style. I say, Ad man, we'll see whether you are sTighity calle* Tron-Nerve. With the whip you would have tickled me, ['ll tickle you, and don’t you forget it! Tron-Nerve smiled defiantly, but made no answer. i No beg about him!” sung Major Bixby. You shut up, or you'll get a taste of it!’ Colona Wetherill called out veerniy. Carmen rolled up his sleeves, spat on his hands, and was ready. . = ed + 2 4 2 ade
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, 14 *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. And with ail his ,crength, he struck the initial / He soon came to the ’Liza Jane shanty, but saw | blow! A “toe welt across the Sport’s white back was the result. Wetherill averted his face. Wretch though he was, he could but shudder as his imagination asked him what he would do were he the victim, Iron-Nerve winced a trifle and his teeth were set as by a vise, but he uttered no sound. His face was pale, but defiant, and terrible in its expression. no one, and was unaware of its ownership, A sudden thought striking him, he headed Billy into the glen, and halted him among the pines. “‘T'll hang around here until dark,’’ he mused. ‘““Then I can slip into Pokerville, and get some clothing and weapons from the major.” From where he had halted he could observe the cabin. Seeing no stir, he finally concluded it was | untenanted, and so stole toward it. ** Give him twenty lashes—that willbe sufficient,” | the colonel ordered. salt water, and start him off. Don‘t be careful how rou hit him Carmen. Don’t be at all tender- earted !” “No fear of that!’ was the savage answer, and the villain continued to pile on the the force he knew how. Not a sound from Iron-Nerve. The flesh on his back was laid open in great “Then we'll douse him with | lows, with all | On reaching the door he saw, to. his surprise, that Priggins was inside, fast asleep in his chair. Upon the wall lron-Nerve saw a miner’s shirt hang- | ing, and also several rifles, revolvers, and cartridge- belts. Resolved not to disturb the parson, he took off his boots, and stole into the cabin, with the stealth of a cat as it nears its prey. Without difficulty he procured the shirt, and an | old sombrero; then a rifle, a pair of revolvers, and ashes, and the blood dripped from him, in streams; | ut he stood the terrible torture, without a groan, or @ murmur of pain, ‘ The crowd of rancheros looked on loweringly. Roughest of the rough, even though they were, | their hearts went out for the Sport, and they could but commend his wonderful grit. At the twentieth blow, Carmen had just got his hand in, and showed no disposition to stop. “Tl finish him, but what he shall cry,’’ he yelled, with the fury of a demon. The rancheros exchanged glances; then, one of them stepped forward, “Let up thar! We’re solid wi’ the colonel, but an MS aaa has gone fur enough—eh, boys?’ he cried. The others assented. “Of course—throw down your whip, Carmen!” the Nabob cried, not caring to go against the will of his backers. Carmen obeyed, unwillingly. “T ought to kill him,”’ he cried. Menry Wetherill then produced a bucket of strong- wy aoues water, and dashed it upon the Sport’s Iron-Nerve groaned, at this. His agony was excruciating. “Ha! ha! that fetches the music out of him!” Carmen yeiled. “ Your musical days are to come!” Iron-Nerve cere “My curse rests on you, you cowardly ru ” “ Your curse is of little account!’ Henry Wetherill said. ‘* You should feel grateful that we do not kill you. Carter, go get this devil’s horse.” A faint aon of pain came over the Sport’s face. e knew his horse was in the stable, securely tied; otherwise, no man in Pokerville could approach it. Three men set out for the fiery animal, and soon returned with it, having all they could do, to hold it, Tron-Nerve was then seized, and tied upon his own back across the horse’s back, his head and heels dangling downward “Now, then,’ Henry Wetherill said, ‘‘when the cactus is slippedin under your charger’s tail, fare- well. You'll never see your loving friends, here, , sad though it may be. We would honor you with a coat of tar and feathers, but have none handy. Thus ends your lover’s hope of ever again seeing Theo—once your Laura Leigh. Ha! ha! The other time I forced her to turn you off—this time, I try a different method. Your fair Laura has deecoyg by the same punishment, as you. Keady, 8!” ; n-Nerve heard, and he also comprehended all. Laura had never been false to hm! All, now, pointed to this fact. He would have answered, but at this instant, his horse gave a scream of pain, and bounded furiously away, up the gulch, ’mid yells from the crowd. On! on! on! it tore, like some mad creature, and he expected every minute to have his brains dashed out, against the rocks. On! on! on! He wondered if the suffering brute ever would stop. It did stop, all of a sudden. They were over a mile up the gulch, however. The cactus had become detached from in under the horse’s tail. It paused, with a snort, and gazed about, as if at a loss what to do, “ Billy!’ the sport called. “ Billy!” The animal turned its neck around, in evident sur- prise. Then, recognizing its master, it gave expres- sion to its delight ina low whinny, and evidently re- alizing its master’s situation, began biting at the lariats, which bound his hands, as he reached out his arms to pereieee he sagacious brute’s work. Carefully, faithfully it worked, growing moment- arily more eager to release its owner’s cruel bonds. The thongs rapidly softened under the hot moist breath and sharp teeth, and in five minutes the $s ‘s arms were free! Then, it took him but a ort time, to gain his liberty. He then dismounted, and with some remnants of ents, bathed his back in the water of sgt resp ling about his waist to hi ong rags dangling abou w is astonishment was his vest, held fast by the pistol- belt. Quickly he examined its inside pocket and there safe but not sound was the little silver box, but the bullet shock had opened the lid, and there lay before the Sport’s gaze, the ring—the tiny gold circlet which he given Laura Leigh in ®maha! “Thank God!” he murmured, “She is still true to me.” Placing the treasure in a pocket of his tro which were yet whole, he remounted his horse, headed back for Pokerville. ef [EEA fad af oci a fll. d104 d fUPEL AILS -TUGs clben Pcl tomes? such ammunition as he needed. Thus equipped, he returned to the glen, and in due time, was fixed up ina more presentable style. | He was suffering much from his lacerated back, and throwing himself upon the ground thick with the dead spines of the mountain pine, he passed off | into a deep and refreshing steep. It was after dark when he awakened, and his | horse was lying down near at hand. He rose, feeling stiff and sore, and was in the act of preparing to start for Pokerville, when he heard voices. He crouched down by Billy, and listened. Presently two men came stealthily up the glen, from the direction of the cabin, and plunged deeper into the forest. They passed but a short distance from him, and he mosceneeea them as roughs he .ad seen in Poker- ville. ‘The colonel says this is the last night,” one of them said as they passed. “Yas. I reckon he's after the sixty thousand dollars.”” “ Well, we can’t growl. We've made our pile, an’ we've bin lucky to git off so neat.” “You bet. on glad it’s to be thrown up. I’m tired out. It’s my turn, eh? Well, I hope itis the iast. D’ye know, I’ve wondered some one didn’t pop a bullet right in under the fetlock, an’ lame the burro ?° Iron-Nerve did not catch the answer. He had arisen to his feet. His face was flushed with triumph. **Sooner than lexpected!” he muttered. it, now. I'll work the clew!” Motioning his sagacious animal to remain where it was, he set out on the trail of the two roughs, He tracked them to a cavern a mile from *Liza a. abode, and there, on entering, they lit a torch. Iron-Nerve watched their movements eagerly. First of all, a small but wiry burro was led forth, and one of the men mounted it, lying face down- ward and lengthwise upon the animal's back. In this, position, and holding the reins, he was strapped by his companion. Then, from overhead, an ingenious contrivance was lowered, which, when fitted strapped and tied down, completely hid the burro and rider from sight, on piel the winged crocodile and the Devil OD It was a remarkably clever piece of mechanism, as Tron-Nerve could see. The crocodile body and all that covered the burro, except its legs, appeared to be made of sheet-iron worked and painted artistical- ly to represent what it did. The leggings were of steel chain-net. The ghostly figure was of india- rubber, painted white; consequently, both dragon and rider were bullet-proof. When so much had been done, Bones, the assist- ant, mounted a stool, and with a can, poured a quan- tity of liquid of some kind into a tiny hole between the crocodile’s eyes; next he applied the lighted torch to the eyes and mouth, and jets of flame leaped therefrom. Then, seizing a can of prepared phosphorus, he washed the dragon with it, and said: ““Thar! I guess you'll do fer ter-night, Jimmy. It’s our last night, anyhow. I'll slip down to Poker an’ collect w’at’s comin’ from the colonel, then, arter ter-night, we'll light out fer other parts wi’ our in- vention, an’ speckilate on it.” “Not yet!”’ Iron-Nerve cried, leaping into the cave, and seizing the burro by the uncovered bits, at the same time covering Bones with a revolver. ‘Throw down your zee, or you’re a dead man!” Bones uttered an oath, and hesitated. “ Obey!" Iron-Nerve cried, “for the game's up! If you would live, you have but one choice.” “The jig’s up, Bones,” piped Jimmy’s voice from under the covering. ‘ Don’t be a fool!” Bones threw his weapons down. “Take that rope,” Iron-Nerve ordered, “and tie this burro’s legs together.” Doggedly the man obeyed, covered with that threatening revolver. ee more rope,” was Iron-Nerve’s next com- mand. “* What ye goin’ to do?” Bones growled. “Tie you, of course. You are my prisoners for e dead, Wetherill tough! “T have ‘cee Bones securely, Iron-Nerve then picked up is rifle. ** Til be back ere long, likely. No one will disturb you till I return, I dare say.” oe feelings of victory he then set oat for Poker- ville. “Tt’s ten thousand dollars I haven’t lost, but fifty thousand I’ve;won,’’ he muttered. “A fellow can stand a sore back or so for that.” CHAPTER XIII. DICK DALLAS SPEAKS. As he reached *Liza Jane’s cabin, Iron-Nerve con- cluded to enter it, and see if Priggins were still there; but when he stalked into the room, the par- son was not to be seen. An instant later, however, ’Liza Jane came from the cavern apartment. “Tron-Nerve,” she ejaculated, ‘‘you are a wel- come visitor, indeed. Come in here,”’ and she led the way into the cavern, where but a few moments prior to the Sport’s arrival she had accomplished such magical] results with the flattery in restoring Dumb Dick from his semi-paralysis of limbs, and entire paralysis of tongue. Iron-Nerve uttered an exclamation of astonish- ment, as by the firelight he saw the group collected within the cavern. ** Well, he said, turning to ’Liza Jane, “you have quite a houseful of visitors. Perhaps I am intrud- ing. “No! no! no!” ’Liza cried. ‘‘You are more than welcome. But your garments are stained with blood, sir; are you wounded badly?” “A little cut in the back is all. I got a horse- whipping at the camp this afternoon. I’m but little the worse for it, though.” The eyes of the Sport then became riveted upon | the face of Dick. Liza Jane saw the two men regarding each other, and asked almost unconsciously: ‘*Tron-Nerve, do you know this gentleman whe looks so much like you?’’ Both men had grown a trifle paler. ‘*GreatGod! Dick, Dick Dallas—my brother—can this indeed be you?” Iron-Nerve gasped, extending his hand. Which the other seized, heartly. ‘*VYes, Iam indeed Dick Dallas, though it has been many months since I have been able to speak the name, until to-night. I owe ali to her,” and he pointed to ‘Liza Jane. “ But, it cannot be possible—” “That I am your brother, Nathan Norcross Dal- as?” “Exactly.” uae know that it is possible, for I am none other!” And the brothers then indulged in a good old- fashioned hug. f “T never expected to see you again, though I came down into this country, in hopes of finding some trace of you, and of father and mother.” “Their faces you will never see again,’”’ Dick Dal- lis said, sadly. Then, he turned to ’Liza Jane: “My faithful friend, I suppose you are anxious to hear my story, and since you have bestowed upon me the precious gift of speech, you shall know “This is the first time I have met my brother, in ten years, for, that many years ago it was, that be ran away from our home, in Nebraska, and became a ranger, in the far western wilds. 1, however, re- mained with my father, and a year after Nat’s de- parture, we heard of his death, in an Indian massa- cre. ‘* About this time, my father came to thrs section, and being well-do-to, bought up all the tract of land, coneaes in the estate known as the Elms!” All looked surprised, except *Liza Jane, ** My father, a little ‘later, yy a fortunate specula- tion, made nearly a million dollars, and at once set to work working the Elms into a beautiful home, using money without:-stint, and employing the best workmen to be d. When the Elms was built, we made a Every that g vast mine of gold was underlying Ourresidence, and so determined to keep it a secret, until we had worked “it all we needed of it. “For years we mined, and no one wag | je wiser for it, for our home was in the heart of the wilder- ness then; and when I tell you that a large share of our profit was laid out about the Elms, you may not wonder that such a stately home exists, as it doe to-day. At last, however, father took an old frien into the secret—a boyhood chum of his, Donald Car- men by name. “ Things went on well, for awhile, but finally Car- men turned up missing. Father would never believe anything was wrong, until, one ht Carmen took us by surprise. He came back with a pal named Leigh,—that’s the name, ‘Liza—and a dozen ruffians to back him!” “Leigh! Thatismy name!” ejaculated the «pare son. “Henry Wetherill frequently assumed the name, years ago,”’ Theo put in. “Ah! he, then, is the man who accompanied old Carmen!” Dick averred. * Well, we were all taken ned in the mine, —? nt ae A ge SS Se oe OU ee i
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servant yonder Suse—Heaven bless her! It was a failure, though, and I was terribly beaten. Soon after, however, I mace another attempt, and suc- ceeded. J leaped from the top of the tower of the Elms, to the groun ¢{” A ery of horror escapidi she listeners, at which Dick Dallas langhed. ‘* A desperate man may do many things,” he said. **Of myself, however, and of my wanderings, from that day, until about a year ago, I know not, I was aemented—utterly out of my wits. I have a faint recollection of that, and that I was hunted. A year ago, 1 was found by ‘Liza Jane, and she has made m whatIam!” And he put his arm around her waist, and drew her to bim. * Nat,” he went on, “the Elms is ours, and we have each a son’s vengeance to wreak on Henry Wetherill!”’ “True, Dick; I owe him no good-will, you can bet! Priggins, I captured the dragon, to-night, and have it, with the two men whom Wetherill hired to work the invention, safely caged!" “The money is in Miss *Liza Jane’s hands, sir. My name, however, is not Prigginus, but Gerald Leigh, of the Crescent City detective force. This young lady is my sister, and I Lope no one _ will think ill of her for being a member of Henry Weth- erill’s household, as he abducted her, when but a child, and she declares her innocence of any com- plicity in his villainy. Indeed, she has sufferel ter- ribly at his hands.” ‘* Miss Leigh is cleared of everything,” Iron-Nerve said, bowing, but not raising his gaze to Theo’s pale face. ‘“* Miss Liza, you will still continue as banker of the wager money. Dick andI have work to do, et.”’ mi What, Iron Nerve?” **Henry Wetherill is a murderer! me and fight!” “IT have a warrant for his arrest, sir, for murder, of long standing,’ Gerald Leigh spoke up. * But sitive your claim is stronger than mine I will with- draw from the case. To-morrow, however, I will arrest Clinton Carmen, and with my sister, bid you all good-by.”’ *What would you arrest Clinton Carmen for?’ *Liza Jane cried, excitedly. **Ah, excuse me! Perhaps I am treading on some one’s toes, eh?’ and the detective laughed. ‘‘ You see, miss, while I was up in Oregon recently a war- rant was given me for the arrest of one Clinton Car- mien wherever found, for the murder of one Mabel are, “Then your case is identical with mine. I am Mabel Dare’s sister Jennie—’Liza Jane being merely a whim tohide my identity—and I am here to settle with Clinton Carmen myself!’ the Girl Miner cried. “Not while I’m your pard!’’ Dick Dallas inter- “Tl just attend to any little accounts that rest with you to settle, my true friend! This Car- men must be a relative of Wetherill’s chum, and I owe him a grudge on that account.” “Then let’s get ready for a visit to the Elms!” Iron-Nerve suggested. ‘‘There is no time like the present for matters of this kind.” “Tf "Liza Jane will look out for my sister and Suse I will accompany you,” Gerald Leigh an- nounced. ** You bet lll look out for ’em!” was *Liza’s assur- ance. ‘Lonly wish I had a hand in the circus too. My pard will fill the bill, though. Come along into the cabin and I'll rig you all out with weapons suf- ficient to start a cemetery at least.” They all followed the ane elf except Theo, and Iron-Nerve, seeing that she intended to remain be- hind, lingered also. “T wanted to tell you that to your little silver box l owe my life,” he said, stepping closer to her. earried it in my vest-pocket, and but for its pres- ence there to-day a bullet would have entered my He must face heart. “Indeed! Then I am so glad I gave it to you,” she murmured, her gaze averted. " The lid got open by the shock of the bullet, and I could not resist the temptation to take a peep at the treasure,” he said. “Laura, may I place my little ring back upon your finger?” She gave him a startled glance and buried her face in ner hands as he drew her toward him. “Ox, Nat! you know not what you are saying!” she sobbed. ‘‘ You do not mean it—you are mock- ing mein my misery!" ‘Far from it, Lauya. I am not the man to.do that, I know what you would say—that I can never forgive that cruel blow dealt me, at Omaha? Did I not know that you were forced to write, as you did, by Henry Wetherill, I should not forgive you, we ’ “Then you know—?”” “ Enough to satisfy me. Wetherill, this afternoon, made his brags that he forced you to write the letter. You visited me at the hotel?” “Yes! I could not rest until I was satisfied that it was you. Oh, Nat, do you fully forgive me? Then I can go with my brother, ieinorioy, with a . iter heart.” ‘I forgive you, if there is anything to forgive— but, my jewel, you shall never leave me again. Tell me one thing, dear—did old Blood Bixby let you into my rooni?” se es—but oh! don’t scold him. I made him “The infernal old seamp! Well, there’s one thing "ll lie like blazes before he’ll break a promise!’ parson, as we shall still call him into Wis cavern just then, and started af ec the ‘s arm about Theo, in a very lover-like he demanded; “ ‘s ?”” of a year's standing, sir, just come tea + ’Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. 15 focus,” Iron-Nerve replied. ‘Parson, this is my in- “You haven't captured the dragon yet, I dare tended wife!” “Waal, dog my cats ef things ain’t getting rather | warm!’ the parson ejaculated, wiping his forehead. Mae} bea from the other room so \as not to inter- | | fere wit 1 a sort of billing-and-cooing match. Reckon I’m left out in the cold, unless I tackle old Suse.” Haif an hour later the three men, well-armed and mounted, rede rapidly toward Pokerville. It was moonlight and pleasant, and they chatted sociably until they reached the Demijohn, where they dismounted. The major was standing on the veranda, looking — the street where a crowd of men were congre- rated. . ‘*Hillo, Iron-Nerve, you old hunk!’ the major cried, seizing the Sport’s hand. ‘Still alive, yet, I see. Did ali I could fer ye, boy. “Twa’n’t no use, tho’. Queer how things will take a turn,eh? Yes- terday Henry Wetherill was toe biggest gun, hyer- ways, an’ now I wouldn’t give ten cents fer his scalp." **What’s wrong?” “Why, ye see, arter you war sent off, he and the hasnt 5 had SOime words, an’ he discharged the hull passel. *“ An unwise movepJ should say.” “Jest bet. The fellers didn’t say much, at first, but begun fillin’ up on whisky, an’ they’ve got "bout a tankful, now. That’s them down yonder. They’re goin’ to pay the colonel a wisit at midnight, an’ ye kin jedge what'll happen.” ‘Then we must get in ahead of them,” Iron-Nerve declared. ‘* Major, this is my brother, Richard Dal- las—the rightful owner of the Elms. Henry Wetherill does not own an acre of the place, as can be easily proved,” ** Well, well! of all things!" and the major shook Dick’s hand, warmly. ‘ Bet yer life Pokerville will back ye, young man, every dayim a week! Come in, boys. On the head of this Wwe must have an eye- opener.” The eye-opener was had, and- then Iron-Nerve asked: *“ Where is the whelp, “ae went along wi’ the cunnel,”’ the major re- wed, : ‘*So much the better. We'll gobble the both of them. By the way, major, 1 have a request to ask of Clinton Carmen?” you.” “ State it, sir—it’s already granted.” “Itis this: Write up to the fort and have achap- lain come down. I and Theo Wetherill propose to get married.” “Great Jupiter! Then I'm goin’ to get spliced to the widder at the same time!” “And, major, as we shall stop at the Demijohn a few days, I want a special lock put on the door of my room.” ¢ major eyed the Sport a moment, “See here friend,” he asked, “aire ye screwin’ around at a hint?” “ Not exactly: I think Igave it straight from the shoulder.” “ Well, by gosh! Did that gal go squawk on me?” ‘Precisely what she did, you old sinner. Buc, on account of the huge size of your gall, I'll have to for- give you, this time.” They had another eye-opener then, and, apouaeg their horses, rode down to the Elms, which look like some grim castle in the spectral moonlight. Leaving their horses at the edge of the park, they crept toward the mansion As soon as they bad apy reached near enough, they perceived that the hall door was wide open, and upon = a weltering in blood, lay Clinton Carmen —dead! ** One life less to dispose of,”’ Iron-Nerve muttered. * The tiger has evidently killed his own mate, I dare say Wetherill has taken flight.” uch however, was not the case. In his own bed-chamber, lying upon the snowy bed, the colonel lay, his face white and blood stream- sa Signe his side and dyeing the counterpane. e looked up with a glare of defiance, as he saw the trio enter—his surprise did not seem to increase at sight of Dick Dallas. “TI thought you were not dead,” he said, raisi himself on his elbow; “in fact I was quite sure of if. I suspected that ‘Liza Jane had you hidaway. Was I right?” * Quite,” Dick Dallas answered. “It is my fault,’ he went on, as coolly as though speaking of some trivial matter. “I ought to have had the girl killed. It can matter but little now, however. The game’s about up. I can’t hold out more than half an hour, then the Elms will be ours. You'll find the papers and everything in my brary. “Indeed! Then you’ve concluded to give up?” “Phere seems little else for me to do. I’ve played my cards for all they’re worth, and lost after all. There were too many knaves in the hand. Where is eo? * Safe in my protection!” Iron-Nerve cried. ** Hen- ry bbs ay are you able to stand and meet me face ace?” “Tam not. If you choose, you can shoot me where Ilay, or wait till death comes—which will be ere many minutes.” ‘“‘]T strike no helpless man, even though he were the murderer of my father and mother, Are those their graves upon the island?’ “You did a thi derful in burying th some won em OA a og fal ome - me, and we had it o I did mga dd for him + {EWS Be Gl 9g much ir Then a hard expression fiitted over his face. say?” he at length remarked. On the contrary, Ihave. I have both Bones and Jimmy secured in the cave. That's a clever inven- tion—the dragon—but I'll give it away to-mor- row.”’ Well, Isuppose so. It’s been a bad day. I’ve had my time, though, and can’t growl. I sup- pose I'll have to make the best of it. Do you see this?” He touched one of two knobs that were affixed to the wall at his bedside. ‘**] see!’ Iron-Nerve responded. ‘*Then watch!” He gave the knob a violent jerk. “That signifies that the gold mine beneath this castle is flooded, and henceforth of no value. The jerk of that knob opened 0 secret flood-gate connect- ing from the lake. Five minutes will suffice to Hi the mine!” “But there are your miners in the mine!” Iron- Nerve cried, horrified. **Let them die as I do!"’ was the answer. ‘ The next instant he had placed a pistol to his head and fired! It was the last act in the drama for him, and the two brothers and the detective left the Elms, their vengeance most fully appeased. Henry Wetherill and Clinton Carmen were buried next day upon the ranch, and a wooden slab placed upon each grave, to tell who lay beneath the sod. After undergoing some changes, the Elms was taken possession of by Suse and a retinue of serv- ants. About a month later there was a wedding at the Elms, to which ali Pokerville had an invitation; that is, there was one wedding, and two others as accom- paniments. Iron-Nerve, the Sport invincible, took as a partner for life, the one of his choice, Laura Leigh. The second couple was our heroine, "Liza Jane, alias Jennie Dare, and Dick, and in taking Dick Dallas for a life partner she not only made an excel- lent choice, but became mistress of the Elms, Iron-Nerve and Laura, later removing to Oregon. Major Blood Bixby married the “ widder,” Mrs. G. Washington Williams, and as she had some wealth, a claim in Howlin’ Bar, and an easy temper, the major declared he had struck a veritable bonanza. After the wedding, a little sensatior was created by a shot being fired through the open window at Iron-Nerve, A search was made, and Scorpion Sam captured. he Pokervillians wanted no greater provocation than this, and as Sam was a bad character, one of the elms of the park was utilized, and he was dis- posed of in short order, Before leaving Pokerville, Iron-Nerve permitted Bones and Jimmy to escape, and he exhibited the dragon-invention to many curious ones, after which he presented it to Dick as a guard-of-safety to the Elms. Wetherill had indeed flooded the mines; but the ranch was a fortune, and Dick and ‘Liza Jane have as nice a home as heart could wish. While with the wager money, Iron-Nerve and Laura are well content, the parson living near them. THE END, Beatle's Half-Dime Library. BY BRACEBRIDGE HEMYNG. 89 Island Jim; or, The Pet of the Family. 91 The Captain of the Club; or. The Rival Athletes. 101 Jack Markaway in New York. BY W. J. HAMILTON, 68 The Red Brotherhood; or, The Twelve Avengers, 66 Single Hand; or, A Life for a Life. 72 Mad Tom Western, the Texan Ranger. 887 Ben Bird, the Cave King; or, Big Pete’s Scoop. BY JACK FARRAGUT. 815 Ned, the Cabin Boy. 820 The Sea Sorceress; or, The Boy Skipper. BY WILLIAYW PF. EYSTER,. 190 Dandy Darke; or, The Tigers of High Pine. 210 Faro Frank; or, Dandy Darke’s Go-Down Pards BY COLONEL DELLE SARA, ° 108 The Lion of the Sea; or, The Vailed Lady. 186 Cool Deamond; or, The Gambler’s Big Game, BY JAMES L. BOWEN 107 One-Eyed Sim; or, The Abandoned Forest Home. 110 The Black Steed of the Prairies, A Story of Texas, BY CAPT. ALFRED B. TAYLOR, U. 8. A. 191 Bafieie Billy, the Boy Bullwhacker; oz, The Doamed rteen. 194 uffalo Bill's Bet; or, The Gambler Guide. BY JOUN J. MARSHALL, 40 Roving Ben, A Story of a Young American. 87 The Outlaw Brothers; or, The Captive of the Harpes. BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID. 78 Blue Dick; or, The Yellow Chiefs Vengeance, 87 The Land Pirates; or, The League of Devil’s Island. 187 The Helpless Hand; or, Backwoods ‘tion. 289 The Gold-seeker Guide; or, The Lost Mountain, A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, ive eonts per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six conte each, * ee > sr
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BEADLE’S« H ALF- DIME«[_IBRARY. Published Every Tuesday. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novels, 1 Deadwood 20 Deadwood 25 Deadwood 85 Deadwood 42 Deadwood 4Y Deadwood 5T Deadwood 78 Deadwood TZ Deadwood 400 Dead vw ood 204 Deadwood 109 Deadwood i29 Deadwood 4188 Deadwood 4149 Deadwood 156 Deadwood 195 Deadwood R201 Deadwood 205 Deadwood BI? Deadwood 221 Deadwood 282 Gold-Duast R68 Deadwood B68 Deadwood 809 Deadwood S21 Deadwood 47 Deadwood 51 Deadwood 862 Deadweod 405 Deadwood 410 Deadwood 421 Deadwood 480 Deadwood 448 Deadwood 448 Deadwood 458 Deadwood 459 Dendwood 465 Deadwood 471 Deadwood 476 Deadwood 451 Deadwoed 49L Deadwood ‘496 Deadwood 500 Deaawooa 508 Deadwood ‘515 Deadwood 522 Deadwood 529 Deadwood 584 Deadwood S39 DPeadwooa 14 Deadwood 5: 549 Denadwooa I 554 Deadwood 561 Deadwood 567 Deadwood S72 Deadwood 578 Deadwood 58% leadwoea 590 Deadwood 595 Deadwood €00 Readwood 606 Deadwood 812 Deadwood G18 Deadwood G24 Peadwood S30 Yeadwood 336 Veadwood 12 Deadwood 648 Deadwood G54 YNeadwood 660 Deadwood 666 Deadwood $72 leadwood 678 Deadwood 654 lheadwood 690 Dendwood 6 z Deadwood ~~ Deadwood “B4 Deadwoo ‘Ti® Dendwoo 716 Beandwood 722 Deadwood 728 Deadwood 784 Deadwood 740 Deadwood "S47 Deadwood ‘52 Deadwood 758 Deadwood 64 Deadwood % Yoadwood endwood TA2 Dead wooa TST Deadwood T9S Deadwood 'T9T Deadwood 802 Deadwood SOT Deadwood Ri2 Deadwook 816 Deadwood 322 Deadwood 328 Deadwood 854 Deadwood 840 Deadwoo 845 Deadwood 8. Deadwood 8 Deadwood 268 Deadwood S70 Deadwoed R76 Dendwood 882 Deadwood RY9L Deadwood 898 Deadwoot 904 Dendwood 910 Pendwoot 916 Peadwodd 928 Deadwood 934 Deadwood 940 Deadwood 946 Dendwood PSL Deadweod 957 Deadwood $65 Deadwood 9T1 Deadwood O77 Deadwood YRC Dendwood ad Pick, 1 Dick, Dick, tie Prnnce of the Road, Dick’s Detinnce; or, Vouble Daggers. Dick in Disguise; or, Bulla» Ben. Dick in Mix Castle. Dick’s Konanza; or, The Phantom Miner. Pick in Danger; or, Omana Oll, Diek’s Engies; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. Dick on Deck; or, Calamity 2 we, the Heroine Dick’s Last Acti or, Corduroy Charlie, Dick in Leadville, pre Hes lee; om The Double Cross Sign. ck as Detective. Dieck’a Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. Dick’s Nome ase; or, Blonds Bill. Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. Dick ot Deadwood: or, The Picked Party, Dick’a Dreams or, The Rivals of the Road. Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel, rig he tear or, Calamity Jane's Adventure, ck’s Dead Deal. Dick’s Peath-Plant. Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Towghe, Dick’s Divides or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake, Dick’s Death Tratl. Dick’a Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon, Dieck’s DPozeny or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats Dick’a Ducata; or, Days in the Diggings. [4 pl ta hey heal or, The Terrible Fendotta. ek’s Claim. Dick in Deaa City. Dick’s Diamonds, Dick in New York; or, A “Cute Case.” Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. pi dry or, The Crimaon Creacent Sign, Jr.’a, Defiance, Jr’e Full Hand, dr.’a, Rig Round-Up. Jr.’a Racket at Claim 10, Jra Corral; or, Bozeman Bill, drv*, Dog Detective. dr., in Deadwood, dra, Compact. Jr.’s, Inheritance, Jr.'s pie nga. dr.’s, Deliverance, dr.’ Protegee. Jr.’s, Three. Jdr.’s, Danger Dacka, Jr.’*% Death Hunt, ar., in Texas, dr., the Wild West Vidooq Jr., on Mia Mettle. Jdr., in Gotham, r., In Boston. Jr., in Philadetphia, Jr., in Chicago. Jr.. Afloat. @r.. in Denver. dra, Deerce, Jr. in Beelzebub’s Raasin. dr., at Coney Ialand. dr.'e Leadville Lay. Jdr., in Detroit, dr. in Cincinnati. ér., in Nevada, Jr., in No Man’s Land, Oru fitter the Queer. dr.. in Buffalo. Dek, Jr.’a, Chase Across the Continent Dick, Jvr., Among the Smugglers, Diek, Jr.’4, Insurance Case, Dick, Jr., Back In the Mines, Dick, dr., tu Durangogs or, “ Gathered In.” Dick, Jr.’6 Dlacovery; or, Found a Fortune, Dick, Jr.’a. Dazzle. Dick, Jr.’s. Dollars, pies FA, of Danger Divide. ek, dy.’s, Drop. Dick, Jr., at Inck-Pot, Dick Jr., in San Franceliace, Piek, Jr.’ Still Hunt, Dick, Jr’a Dominoes. ick, dr.’s DPtegulae, Bick. Jr.’a, Donblo Deal, Wek Jr.’a. Deathwatch. Dick Jr.'s, Jioublet. ick dJr.’«, Deathblow,. Pick, dr.’a Desperate Strait, hag Ys, nope gay ck, Jr.’s Deteat, Dick, Jr.’a, Resurrection. Dick. Sra Dark Days. Dick Jr.» Defied. Dick, Fr,’s, Double Device, Dick, Jr’., Desperate Venture. Wek, Jr«, Diamond Dice, Piek Jr.’ Royal Flush. 1 Dick, Jr.’a Mead-off, Dick, dra, Rival. Dick, Jr's) Boom, Dick, Jr.’ Reoop. Dick, dr.’*; Proxy, Jvva, Clutch, Dick, Jr.’s, Winch Morae. Dick Jr., nt Devils Gulch. Dick, dr.’«, Peath-Hole Hustle. Dick, Jr. Thombahcll. Dick, Jr., In Mexico, Dick, Jr’a Decoy Duck. Dick, Jr. in Milver Pocket. Pick, Jdr’a, Dead-Sure Game, Jra, Double Drive, drin, Trade- Mark, Jr., at Tip-Top. Iris Double-Decker. dr. at Dollarvilie. Jr., at Flush Flats Dick. Jr.’a, Shake-up. Dick, Jr.’a, Double Drop. Dick, Jr.’a, Right Bower. Dick, Jdr.’a, Ten-Strike. ick, Jr.’s, Gold-Duat. Diek Jr.'s, Cath, Pick, Jr.’s, Death-Dooms Dick, Jr.’s, Best Card. Dick, Dick, Dick, Dick, Diek, 992 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Gold Dust. 99S Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Rig Play. 1005 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Branded. 41011 Deadeword Dick, J°.’s, Dutch Pard, 1018. Deadwood Dic:., J+.’4, Big Four. BY ROBERT R. INMAN, 1086 Pandy Pick’s Double, 1024 Pandy Dick, Detective. RY MARCUS H. WARING, 26 The Three Spotters. 19 1048 1058 The Street Rpotters’ Weird Hunt. The Three Spotters’ Dead Mystery. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. 84 Rosebud Rob on Mand; or, Idyl, the Girl Miner. S88 Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance; or, Photograys 1%1 Rosebud. Rob’s Challenge; or, Cinnamon Chip, 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee’s Surround 2S1 Denver Boll's Victory; or, Skul! and Crossbones. Phil, B86 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza. 896 Denver Doll’s Drift; or. The Road Queen, Yreka Jim, the Guld-Gatherers or, The ue Lottery, Yreka dim’s Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. : ; Yreka Jim's Joker; or, The Rivals of Red Nese, 5894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game. 218 Fritz to the Front: or, The Ventriloquist Hunter 244 Slerra Sas, the Frontier Ferret; or, A Sister’s Devotion, Slerra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vista. Sierra Sam’s Seven} or, The Stolen Bride. Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. Kangaroo Kit’s Racket; or, The Pride of Played-Qut. Death-F ace, Detective; or, Life in New York. i Watch-Eye, the Detective; or, Arabe and Angela, 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 145 Oaptain Ferret, the New York Detective, 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Gir! Detective. 226 The Arab Detective ; or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp, 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 825 Kelley, Mickey & Vo,, the Detectives of Philadelphia. 848 Manhattan Mike, thd Bowery Detective. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Marry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Slabsides, the Beggar-Boy Detective, 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives. 26 Oloven Heof, the Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures. 82 Bob Woolf or, The Girl Dead-Shot 46 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 53 Jim Bludaoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Lill; or, The Red Rifle Team 92 Canada Chet; or, Oli Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 118 Jaek Hoyle the Young Speculator. 125 Reunanza ill, Miver; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 188 Bose hob the King of Bootblacks, 141 Selid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows, 177 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, The Sierras Scamps. 181 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or, Lady Lily's Love. 286 Apollo Rill, the Trail Tornado; or, Rowdy Kate. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Boy Patrol: or, The Rival Heirs, B80 Little Qu!ck-Shots or, The Doad Face of Daggersville, B58 Firat-Clasa Fred, tho Gent trom Gopher. 878 Nabob Neds or, T))« Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 3 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher; or, A Son’s Vengeance, 4 Reualakin Sam. the Sparkier: or The Tribunal of Tea, 918 Kit Keith, t e Revenue Spotter. 922 Sol Sharpe, the New Vork Night-Hawk. 948 Old Hayseed Among Bunco Men 1001 Banty, the Denver Bootblack, BY J.C. COWDRICK, 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 5614 Broadway Billy's Boodle; of, Clearing a Stra ye Care, Rrosdway. Billy’ * DetakAlty.” Broadway Buy's Meath Kacket. roadway Billy'« Surprise Party. Broadway Til} y 5 or, The Rew Deteotive’s Ble Inning, Broadway Billy's Dea’ cts or, The Leaguejot Seven Broadway Billy Albroads.or; Tha Bootblack tn Frisco, Broadway Bills '& Meat; or, Beating Sau Francisco's Finest. Broadway Tilly In Clover. Broadway Billy in Texas; or, The River Rustlers, Broadway Biliy’sa Hrand, 711 roadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Clever Deal. Broadway Billy’s F'wll Wand; or, The Gamin Detective. Broadway. Billy's Business, ; Broadway Billy’« Curious Case. Brondway Billy tn Denver, Rrondway Wtily’s Bargains or, The Three Detective, Broudway Billy, the Retriever Detective. Rroadway Pilly’s Shadow Chane. Broadway Billy’« Beagles; or, The Trio’s Quest. Broadway. Billy's Team. or, The Combine’s Big Pall. Broadway Billy’s Brigade; or, The Dead Alive, Rroadway Tilly's Queer Bequest. Krendway Billy Ratleda. 5 Broadway Billy’s Signal Seoop, Rrondway Billy's Wipe Gat. Broadway Billy’« Bank Racket. Broatway Billy's Blof. Broadway filly Among Jersey Thugs, ireadway Billy’s Rald. Broadway Biliy’« Big Boom, Grondway Bitly’s Big Bulge. rondway Billy’ #100,000 Bnap. Sroudway Billy's Blind; or, The Bootblack Stowaway, Rroadwoy Billy in London. Ikroadway Billy Shadows London Sluma. Broalway Rilly’« French Game, roadway Billy and the Bomb-Throwers. Milver-Mask, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Reys, B69 Shasta, the Gold Kings or, For Seven Years Dead, 420 The Deiective’« Apprentices or, A Boy Without a Name, 424A Cibuta Johny: or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar. 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scont. 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude BOG Redlizht Ralph. the Prince ofthe Road. 524 The Engineer Detective: or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve 548 Mart, the Night Express Detective. 571 Alir-Line Luke, the Young Engtneer; or, The Double Case 592 Vhe Boy Pinkerton; or, 8unning the Rascals Out. 615 Fichting Marry the Chief of Chained Cyelone. 640 Bareback Teth, the Centaur of the Circle, 647 Typewriter Tilly the Merchant’s Ward. 659 Moonlight Morgan the * Pizenest’? Man of Ante Bas S87 Battery Bob. the Dock Detective. 894 Arizona Dick's Vi ipe-Out. 900 Jumping Jack's Jubilee. 906 Satety Sam, the Cycle Sport 912 Train Boy Trixt’s Mot Unustle, 918 The Trump Dock-Roy. 924 Big Boota Bob, the Fire-Laddle. 980 Ruetler Ralph. the Boy Spotter. O85 The Ex-Newshoy Detectivye’s Chum, 941 The Rowling Green Detective’s Drop. 944 Cowboy Chartle’s Donble. 947 The Bowery W reatler: or, The Butcher-Boy’s Backer, 958 Paddy’s Trump Card; or, Silver Sallie, the Girl Sport, 960 The Broadway Sport: or, Fiver Fred’s Clear Onae. GRY #1000. Reward: or, The Rival Reporters’ Sleek Scoop. 978 Bantam Rilly, the Corker-Ferret. 928 Plucky Pat. the Stroet-Bey Detective. P89 Bicycle Bob’« Hat Scorch, 997 Reorcher Samy, the Detective on Wheels 1004 Scorcher Mam’« Rweep-Stakes 1009 ‘Kuve Girl Cyedia’s Winning Hand, BY ARIZONA CY. 1048 Vou Pet Rob from (ross Crick, 1088 You Bet Bob’s Clreus, | 1007 — - —- — = eee BUFFALO BILL NOVELS, BY COL. PRENTISS INGRALAM, Ruffalo Billin Disguise. Goid Plume, the Boy Bandit,; 0, Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider. *O42 wittle Grits the Tony Express Rider, .040 Uuffalo bills Pony Putre'. 1018 Buffalo BIll< Ti xas Tenm:, Iinffalo Bill’s Sure-Shota. 1000 Butfato ills Deeoy Boya. 995 Buffalo Bill’s Drop; or, Dead-S 98S Buffalo Bill's Lasso Throwers. 981 BKutfalo Bill's Fighting Five. 975 Buatfale Bills Rifle Shots, 968 Buffalo Bills Kush Ride; or, Sure-Shot, the High-Viyen 964 Buffalo Bill's Decoy; or, The Arizona Crack Shot 95s Buffalo Billa Mazeppa-Chase. 948 Buffalo Billa Snap-Shot ¢ or, Wild Kid’ Texan Tally 942 Ruffalo Bill’s Tough Tussle. 936 Buffalo Bill’« Boy Mascots or, Joe Jarvis’ Mold-ap. 929 Buffalo BUVs Orack-shot Pard, 650 Buffalo BUl’s Boy Pard; or, Butterfly Billy, 216 Bison Bt, the Prince of the Reins. 222 Bison Bill’a Cluet or. Grit, the Bravo Sport, BY BUFFALO BILL, . 55 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout; or, The Banded Bro‘herheo® 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 358 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Tris 1029 The Phantem Spy. 1088 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. BY CAPT, ALFRED B. TAYLOR, U. 8. A, 191 Ruffalo Rilly, the Boy Bullwhacker. 194 Buffalo Bill’s Bet: or, The Gambler Guide. BY COL. PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 1087 The Artist Detective. 1084 The Gold Witch's Shadower. 1081 The Texan Hustlers in Cuba. 1027 The Cowboy Raiders in Cuba 1025 The Flying \ ankee or, The Ocean Onteast, 1028 The Cowboy Clan In Cul a. 1052 1046 164, the Kansas Kid. 1016 The Boy Bugle, in Cuba, 2 New York Nat's Drop: or, Ex-Ferret Sykes’ New Work Nat and the Traitor kerret. York Nat Trapped. : y York Nat's ‘lhree of a Kind, y York Nat’s Double. York Nat’s in Colorado. York Nat In Gold Nugget Camp. York Nat’« Deadly Deal. y Vork Nat’s Crook-Chase. York Nat’s Trump Card, _ York Nat and the Grave Ghouls York Nat’s Masked Mascot. York Nat, the Gamin Detective. Doom’s Kidnapper Knock-Ont. Doom’s« Ten Strike. Dick Doom’s Flush Hand, . Doom’s Death-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny, Doom’s Peatinys or, The River Blackleg’s Terror, + Poomy. or. ‘I he Sharps and Sharks pt New York, Doom In Reston; or, A Man of Meany Maaks, ¢ Doom tn Chicago. Bick Doom in the Wild West. She Dick Dooin’s Clean Sweep} or, Five Links in a Closes ick Doom’s Death Clue. - Doom’s Diamond Deal < Doom’s Girl Mascot. Doom'’s Shadow Hunt. Diek Doom’s Big Haul. Dashing Charlies or, The Kentueky Tenderfoot’s Firat Trail, Dashing Charlle’s Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive, Dashing Charlic’s Pawnee Pard. Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer. Ruck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. Buck Taylor’ Boys, , The Red Riders of the Rio Granem, And Vifty Others. ; BY LIEUT. A. EK, SIMS. Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Dend Set at Silver City. Tom-Cat’s Triads or, The Affair at Tom betone, Tom Cat’a Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective Tom-Cat’s Triumph or, Black Dan’s Grert Combine. Ouaptain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock; or, Josdi’a Ten Strike, The Dandy of Dodge; or, Rustling for Millions. The Silver Sports or, Joah Peppermint’s Jubilea, Saffron Sol, the Man With 2 Shadow Mappy Wana, the Dutch Vidocq: or, Hot Times at Reond-U » Biland Barnagic, the Detective Hercules. Cowboy Gid, Ure. Cattle-Range Detective. Warbling William the Mountain Mountebank. & Jolly Jeremiah, the Plains Detective. Signal Sam, the Lookout Scout. , Iiily, the Gypay Spys_or, The Mystery of Twe Lives. Simple Sim, the Rroncho Buster: or, For Big Stakes. The Meameriat Sport: or, The Mystitied Deteotive. , Toltee Tom, the Mad Prospector. ‘ Kansas Jim the Crose-Cut Detective. Marmadnrke, the Mustanger Detective, The Rustler of Rolling &tonc. Lone Wand Joe the Committec o: One, Kent Kirbys the Porh-Kicker from Killbtzh, The Doctor Dete etive In Texns, Two Showmen ? ctectives In Colorade, ORT The Texan Firebrand: or, Brazos Billy’s Snap.Sha, } 961 The Tramp’s Trump-Trick. NEW ISSUES, 1064 Dandy Pick Deesyed. By Robert R. Inman. 1065 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman. By Oll Coomes, 1066 ¢'0 boy Ohria, the Des rt Centaur, Ry W, W. Wildow 10867 Vou Bet Rob's Jangle._ By Arizona Cy, 1068 The Cruise of the Sea Wo f, By Col. Ingraham, 1069 ¢m Enand and Sen. Py Braceb:idge Hemyng ! f 1070 Nat Todds; or. The Fate of tne Sinnx Captive, By Elite, 1071 Dandy Dick's Pecoy, By Robt. R, Inman. 1072 Keen Kaltfe, Prince o! the Prairies. By Oll Coomes, JUST ISSUED. 1055 Red Raven’s Redskin Ruse, By Col, P. ineraham 10546 Cowboy Chrisin Cinnabar, By Wm, W. Wilder, 1057 Gold Eifle, the Sharpshooter, By Ed. L, W heeler. 1058 Roderick, te horer. By'T. J Flanagan 1059 Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 1060 Marlo, the Renegade. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 1061 *ilver Star, the Boy Knight. Ry O1l Conmes 1062 Tho Deft-"Wand Athicte, Ey Bracebridge Hemyng, 1068 Wild Bill’s Weird Foe. By Wm,.G Patten. A New Issue Every Tresday- The Walf-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, trve gents per vopy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 92 William Street, New York,