Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 1136) (1903 04)
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CopyricHt, 1878, By BEapLe & ADAMS, ——— No. 1136. ; Published Every Month. Hurricane Bill; OR, MUSTANG SAM AND HIS “PARD.” A Romance of the ** Evil Land.” BY JOS. E. BADGER, JR., AUTHOR OF “YELLOWSTONE JACK,” JOHN,” ETG., ETC. ‘* SLACK CHAPTER I. FEATS IN THE SADDLE. SHRILL cries and loud cheers—the confused trampling of hoofs—the neighing of horses—the loud bellowing of affrighted cattle—mingled with an occasional of musical laughter or little screams of admiration at some ludicrous mishap or more than usually adroit feat, A little corral, containing over @ hundred bulls, now wasnt up to almost mad- ness the horsemen who Ganon) to and fro upon their vee! little mustangs, dexter- ously avoiding the many vi cious thrusts made by the stout-horned animals with an address little short of marvel- ous. And through this seem- ing confusion, the horsemen re a. the animals select- by the ranchero, who sat upon a fine mustang outside the corral, from the main body with their long lances and drove them into a second and smaller inclosure beside the stand upon which stood the ladies. The varied exclamations of the fair spectators were, as with one accord, merged into a clear, musical of won- dering admiration, and their scarfs fluttered in a silken cloud. This outburst was oc- casioned by a feat performed by one of the riders—a volun- teer, who had already dis- layed more than common gga S A sudden turn and surge of ene corner of the corral, or giving him time to turn his mustang, and hy 5:4 d ven work. single yell—a dig of the heavy spurs and stroke of the blood-stain- ed coir bearer the mustang to ea bird, fairly clear- ing the threatening horns of the foreniost bulls, alightin heavily upon the sea of Cone shining backs, A loud bellow of terror—a shrill neigh—a YORK NEW \ \ N WY lige ASTANS WA rice : ar (JAMES SULLIVAN, PROPRIETOR), 379 Pearl Street, New York. PRICE 5 CENTS. Vol XLVI 2 « 50c. a year. be trampled out of all semblance of life by the sharp, cloven hoofs. But the rider? He parted ) from his horse, and with agile bounds ieaned from one back to another until, with a light spring, he stood safe and sound upon the sand | beyond. Then it was that the fair spectators rave vent to their feelings; and, without one ook toward the still bellowing bulls, the cava- lier dropped his sombrero and bowed low, until the long, elf-like locks of jetty black hair half concealed his face. The arrangements are not those of a ‘‘ bull- fight;” then what sport is on the tapis? Some- thing less pretentious, yet.scarcely less interest- ing—the game of ‘‘ Colea de Toros,” or “tailing the bull,” added to others, asel gallo—‘ the cock,” etc. In fine, ’tis a ‘‘ feast day.” ‘* Mira—look yonder!” abruptly cried one of the ladies, pointing with one taper finger to a point far beyond the corral. ‘‘ Hstrangeros !” ‘Some of our maore distant friends who have heard of our feast, Carmela,” replied her companion. ‘*Not so, Isidora—their dress is not that of our people. They are more like these heretics hg a png Yanquesof whom we hear so muck ‘“*T hope—Our Lady grant that they may be!” haif laughed Isidora, her black eyes spar. A ‘‘They are men—men who can defend the heart they have won!” ‘*‘And father—and Luis; are not they men® reproachfully replied Carmela; but Isidora mase no reply. She was watching the rapidly-approachi horsemen. And so were the others, stranger was looked upon with suspicion in that lone region. When first the dust-cloud was ob served, quick glances were interchanged. The same thought could be read in the eyes ef all. Were the Apaches—that terrible scourge of the desert— were the Apaches coming? At along, steady ison ten horsemen advanced, nor did they draw rein until withim two score yards of the as- sembled Mexicans. Then one, mounted upon a black mus- tang of uncommon size and beauty, raised his hand amd cried, in a clear, ringing tone: “You needn’t be afeared, gentlemen—we ain’t on the war-path, just now, but—” ““ Afraid!” echoed the black Mexican, who had se narrowly escaped the dente that overtook his metas as he spurred his fresh m forward a pace. ‘ Afraid— and of only two heretics?” Easy, greaser—yout cain’t put on frills over we uns. e ain’t ticks nur fleaa, nuther. Ef you want toknew our handles, this ere chap’s air we Symes nS e Cherokee Nation, pard—put the hull down,” quickly in the other stranger. ‘* Hurricane Bill of the Che ett a slight stir ran throngh crowd. It was evident that they had heard of thesenames
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“ You do us proud, boss,” leartily said Mus- tamg Sam,as he grasped the proffered hand. oR? all greasers ’d ’af hed so much scrimmagin’. But thar—es you | say, let the past slide. We're out on the loose, | new, Bill an’ me, lookin’ fer fun. We heard tei o’ your sports up here, an’ so rid over to | take a hand in, ef you’d no objections.” Bon Munez expressed his pleasure, and then imtroduced the strangers to his friends, after waaich Luis, his son, in obedience probably to a sl@bt signa] from his sister Isidora, escorted | (Wem to the stand where the ladies were. In | the introduction that followed, the borderers did not appear to the best advantage, actually seoming bashful and timid before the two-score buight eyes that beamed upon them full of inte- | rest and curiosity; for the fair senoritas had heard many accounts of the reckless daring and wenderful skill of the Texan scouts-who had | wrought their forces so much injury during the war recently ended. ‘Pruly, they formed a notable contrast to the diminutive, almost effeminate Mexicans. * Hurricane Bill, of the Cherokee Nation”—as | he himself would insist upon having his title re- | corded—(and, reader, 1 am describing a man wno is yet living, whose name and deeds are | well-known to thousands of Western men, par- ticularly those living in South-western Kansas | and. the Indian Territory) was a model of mus- cular strength and symmetry. Considerably ever six feet in hight, he seemed light-built in proportion; it ytthe broad shoulders, deep chest, reund body and small waist, the swelling hips, long thighs and small feet, were in admirable symmetry. . It was all bone and muscle; active as a deer, supple as a panther, Hurricane Bill was nearly as strong as a buffalo bull. His complexion was almost dazzingly fair, upon | which. the torrid sun seemed to make no im- || ression. His hair was yellow, falling in curling || ocks over his shoulders; his eyes a deep, bright blue; a long mustache shaded his lip; a small imperial upon the chin. His garb—all of buck- skin, save for the blue flannel shirt and gray | felt hat—~ as plain and unornamented. A = brace of — it’s revolvers, heavy size, a bowie- knife with a twelve-inch blade and a short, laa‘ge-bored riflé completed his arms. ustang Sam was several inches shorter, yet ne less perfectly proportioned. Unlike Hurri- eane Bill, he was a perfect type of the ‘‘ frontier dandy ”—in dregs, at least. A Siunaaloren jacket of fine cloth, ornament- e@ with buttons of gold and white silk—doubt- “less wrought by the fingers of dove—cut low at the throat; trowsers of dark-blue broad-cioth, sKished from the knees downward, laced witha gplden cord, thickly studded with belis and meee coins; short boots of curiously-stamped | rdovan leather covered his. feet, armed with | tie cruel-looking Mexican spurs. Upon his head was a short skull-cap or turban, worked with beads and stained quilis. From beneath | . this the jetty black hair fell nearly to Mustang “ Shin's, waist, slightly curling at the ends. A ‘Idng, silken mustache, arched eyebrows and keen, lustrous eyes lent firmness to the other- wae effeminately beautiful face; for the mouth was small and arched, the red lips slightly pout- ing; the teeth’ even and white as pearis, and a spot of scarlet burned upon each cheek. @uch was Mustang Sam—who was better “known by the addition ‘‘ Mad Rider”—a dandy im appearance, but one who proved himself -every inch a man, ons thousand occasions, “You wished tg witness our games, then, sewer?’ observed Isidora, as Luis turned to obey = sor from his father from the plain be- Yes, lady,” replied the borderer, mustering - his best Spanish, féeling strangely nervous un- der the bright, sparkling eyes, and trembling ~ slightly as he felt the dainty little brown hand ~touch his arm. “We heard of it yesterday, ‘and so rode this way, as we had no particular lobject in view, beyond passing away the time. But I’m giad that I came, now.” _ .“¥es—there will be glorious sport—we have some skillful horsemen here,” laughed Isidora, though the quick side glance told that she un- _ derstood his thought. ‘But you will join. - them? We have heard much of your riding—of Lr noble black horse—you will gratify me— ee. Kaa ot Tl not fear to measure skill with even the nt cavaliers yonder— , bat if Isuc a. fail ack you for the knot of breast.” Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. | voirs gallantly, and Our Blessed Lady wiilsmile a’ been like you we wouldn’t | | his com | ata right angle from his original course, sought | over its head to the ground, where ho lay in a | ing them, the scouts—as they would have ex- | both feet of the borderer were off the ground, ; and it seeme upon you!” “Pd rather have your smiles—what ’re you laughin’ at, Hurricane Bill?’ Mustang added, angrily, asa low chuckle met his ear. **Who’s laftin’? Cain’t a feller cough, ef so be he feels like it? But, pard,” Hurricane whispered, ‘‘ you kin goit! ’F I only hed your cheek—” ‘Go to thunder!” muttered Mustang, turning aside, ** See! the sport begins!” cried Isidora, The bars of the.small inclosure were lowéred, | and a fine young bull, seeing the wide, level plain before him, dashed away at the top of his speed. With wild yells, the impatient horse- men darted in pursuit, each striving to outstrip petitors and the first to ‘tail the bull.” So densely were they crowded together that only first rate horsemanship prevented ac- cidents, but then they gradually scattered, the swifter or more adroit taking the lead. : After a run of nearly a mile, two horsemen were hard upon the animal’s heels; Luis Munez and the dark Mexican, whom Isidora said was Don Blas Cavello, Don Luis was ahead, and bending, clutched the animal’s tail, securing it beneath his right thigh, then turning abruptly a 5, ul be to overturn the bull. But his horse made a misstep and fell heavily, casting the young man motionless heap. The agitated cries of the women who noticed this catastrophe were mingled with a loud cheer as Don Blas dextrously overthrew the bull. A rush was made to where Don Luis lay, Mustang Sam and Hurricane Biil being among the foremost, but he was found to have escaped with but a few bruises, and was speedily in the saddle again. At a signal from Don’ Munez, two half-wild bulls were separated from the rest, and both loosed at once. The Mexicans stood aside, giv- ing the border brothers a fair field. And then, knowing that bright eyes were closely watch- pressed it—“‘ jest nat’ally spread themselves!” Hurricane Bill, upou & large, bony ‘ Buck- skin” from the States, spent no time in ‘ cut- ting didoes,” bu’, true to his sobriquet, dashed forward and closed with his bull betore it could cover a hundrec: yards. Securing the tail, he flung the bull heavily upon its side, taen leaped to the ground directly in front of the bellowing brute as it scrambled to its feet, a wild fire in its eyes, every hair standing upon end. Uttering his shrill war-cry, Hurricane Bill grasped the short thick horns and raised the animal’s head by main strength, With an angry bellow the bull leaped aside and sought to rid itself of its antagonist. For a moment to all that in a moment more hie must be crushed to the ground beneath the sharp, cutting hoofs or else impaled upon the sharp horns. But it was only for an instant, Then, securing his footing, Hurricane brought every ounce of his strength info play, and twisting the bull’s head around until its nose pointed toward the sky, he dextrously kicked one forefoot from under it. And then, withta half-choked bellow of rage and pain, the huge brute fell heavily to the ground. ‘ Bully fer you, Hurricane!” yelled Mustang, as he dashed past. ‘‘ We’ll put a wrinkle or two onthe greaser’s horns this pop!” ° While his comrade had been thus engaged, Mustang Sam had been keeping his bull inplay, riding around iand round it tipon his magnifi- cent black mustang, preyenting it from leaving the vicinity. But now, seeing that all eyes were bent Me him, he set to work in earnest, Turning the bull toward the stand occupied by the women, Mustang “‘tailed” him in full view, then lightl leaped from Tornado upon the fallen animal’s bac Bellowing and snort- ing with terror the bull leaped up and plunged madly forward, striving to unseat its rider. But as well might a buifalo seek to cast off its hump, Mustang Sam clung there with the tenacity of a monkey, amid the loud shouts and bursts of laughter at the ridiculous spectacle. Then, as though despairing of ridding itself of the uncomfortable burden by bat and jump- ing, the bull stretched out over the plain like a quarter horse. Pe Mustang Sam stripped off his jacket and bend- ing forward, flung it over the animal’s eyes, effectually blinding it; then, sping a horn, he ed heavil it 2.46 cabasing the aaciuaal to Seine a wide crea by his master, acted wish almost fuman fatal ’ i x AM, Mt gay Tornado free gence, keeping close beside the bellowing buli, avoiding its blind charging with a catlike acs tivity, its eyes fixed upon its loved master as though ready to perform its part at the slight- est motion. In this manner, as though yoked together they ran fairly around the corral, and reached the spot where Mustang had first thrown the bull. Then Sam uttered a single sharp whistle as he freed his jacket, and Tornado pressed closer to the bull until their sides touched. An agile bound, and Mustang Sam was once more seated in the saddle. Then, as if satistied, he trotted up to the stand and rejoined Isidora, who took him to task for making her laugh her- self il—which gave Mustang a chance for a compliment; but—though they seemed deeply interested in the conversation—I doubt whether the reader would care for an exact report. But one thing is certain; if they had never done so before, both Hurricane Bill and Mustang Sam were making love fast and furious now. Nor did either Carmela or Isidora appear very much displeased—remember, reader, they manage matters very differently in Mexice from what we do in our cold clime. But there was one who did not seem to relish ° the close attention paid Carmela, by Hurricane Bill. This was Don Blas Cavello, who also—ag if satisfied with the skill he had already dis- z played—abandoned the saddle for the society of , the ladies. Hurricane Bill simply smiled at the sullen glances he received. Just then he wag not in the humor for a “muss.” ; The sport was continued thus for a couple of | hours, until each cavalier had an opportimity to * display his address and skill. Then prepara- tions were made for a game of another sort. This was el gallo—the cock. _A rooster, its head and neck fairly dripping with grease, wa: secured by one leg to a stout stake driven into the ground. Starting at a gallop, the Mexicans rode swiftly toward the spot, bending low down in the saddle and making a grasp at the cock’s neck—the only part by which it was to be caught. The first half dozen failed, eithe by the bird dodging aside, or else its grease neck slipping through their fingers, but then one managed to break the cord that bound the fowl to the stake, and with a yell of triumph put spurs to his steed and dashed away to the | “turning post”—a small clump of cactus— closely followed by the others, whose object was to wrest the fowl] from his grasp. The cne who succeeded in carrying the bird, or the largest part of it, back to the starting point, was to be hailed the winner, whether he was the one who first plucked the fow] or not. It was a cruel, but animated sport—the mass of horsemen, some two score in all, straining every nerve, riding recklessly; and more than once half a dozen men and animals were rolling in a confused heap. over the ground together. The cock was torn to pieces, and thus the fortu- nate ones returned to the starting point, bearing in triumph a handful of feathers, or perchance a mangled limb of the ill-starred cock. “Ah! in my time ’twes different,” uttered » anold woman to her neighbor. ‘In one day Antone Diaz carried off three cocks and laid - ge amy feet alive and without a ruffied fea- ther!” And the two ancients wagged their white heads sadly over their degenerate descendants. ‘* There are as good men and skilliu] cavaliers now as.then,” a little sharply retorted Don Blas. ““ What man has done? man can do again, andI - pledgemy honor that Senorita Carmela—if she will deign to accept it from my hands—shall have the next cock, alive and unhurt.” E ‘* Don’t let him make his words good,” hastily: whispered Isidora to Mustang Sam, ‘‘ Sister hates and fears that man—you can foil him.” . ‘Td do more than that to please you,” quietly replied Mustang, as he whistled to Tornado. GBurricane Bill also took saddle, but a few quick words passed between the comrades, and he, knowing that Mustang far surpassed him in such feats, contented himself with closely watching the play, holding his Buck-skin ready for a sudden burstif it became necessary. — At the ‘si away dashed the riders, with ight of his ‘Sl 7 Don Blas sightly in the lead, Mustang just lapping his quarter, the mere we finger controlling Tornado, Bending low Don; — Blas clutched the bird’s neck, a gory: Bulk snap- \— yr ea is lips ¢ a bitter curseof rage as is o darted forward Tike a yordoe trey Bish xterous ers 0 mane ang Sam snapped the prize from the Mexican’s fi Tornado - Sey 9” <p dexteron With as e
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glance at the condition of : what gr , * What | a f plain like a metecr, changin bis crasn to the wock’s feet. ; usug #* the cactus ciump, Mustang Sam held the cock aloft with aloud laugh. His com- yetitors were rapidly coming up, though evi- lently not a little surprised at Ahe ease with which Tornado had distanced their pet animals. They were destined to wonder still more, ere ong. Mustang Sam dashed round the bush, then ‘od swiftly at_right-angles with his original curse: The Mexicans turned to cut him off, ‘ying both spur and quirt, and some of them “tered shouts of triumph as they neared the lack stallion. But Tornado wheeled in his tracks as though upon a pivot and with a dozen mighty bounds passed behind the surprised riders, and headed toward the goal. Now only two horsemen were before Mustang, each heading diagonally to- ward him. One was Don Blas; the other was Hurricane Bill. Mustang Sam did not change his course, though even the spectators could see that the others must intercepthim. One breathless mo- ment—then came a dull thud—a cloud of dust— @ wild laugh as the figure of the Mad Rider and this matchless steed rose above it, cleaving the air like a swallow on the wing. Hurricane Bill and Don Blas had come into collision, and the smaller animal was over- thrown, while Tornado, lifted by the strong | hand of his rider, lightly cleared the struggling mass. And side by side the comrades galloped back to the stand, where Mustang silently pre- sented the unharmed fowl to Isidora. s she and crowed loudly. Don Blas Cavello, his gay attire sadly soiled, though he himself had escaped the awkward tumble unharmed,,was almost speechless with rage and mortification, though he managed to articulate sundry hearty curses upon the trick Hurricane Bill had played him. But even his own partisans laughed him down on this point, for, in el gallo all ruses and stratagems are considered legitimate. “You don’t seem to like my style, stranger,” said Hurricane Bill, quietly, but with a steely litter in his blue eye that could not be mis- taken. ‘‘ Now I ain’t much on the talk—I’d ru- ther act,a durned sight—but I will say this amuch. You seem to think yow’re some pump- ‘kins—mebbe you be. I’m only Hurricane Bill, from the Cherokee Nation—a teenty bit o’ a young greenhorn. sight fer his pile, an’ I'll give you a chaince to git even, ef so be you think I played it fine on ye, a bit sence. Jest say how ye wish—afoot or on hossback—’th knives, pistols or rifles ary “one or the lot—it’s all the same to me.” **No!” quickly interrupted Don Munez, step- ping forward. ‘‘There must be no quarreling ‘between friends on this day. Gentlemen, I call on you—help me keep peace!” / “Don't bé a fool, Hurricane,” muttered Mus- tang, in his chum’s ear, ‘‘Mebbe we mought eclean out the crowd, but ef we'd hurt any 0’ thar ‘lations, they’d give us the shake—see?” at You're right, pard—I didn’t think o’ that!” CHAPTER II. ' REVOLVER AND LASSO. “HURRICANE, what ye say to givin’ the pnt aspec’min o’ your shootin’?” added Mus- 4 ang. ‘ - “Jest as you say, pard,” was the quiet reply, though the blue eyes wandered toward the post against which the plump, trim figure of Carmela -Munez was leaning. “Gentiemen,” added Mustang Sam, turning toward the Mexicans who were still gathered around the sullen Don Blas Cavello; ‘‘ you have kindly allowed us to join in your sports, first : showing us how the feats were to be performed. Now, with your permission, we will return the compliment by giving you a specimen of our northern sports, though doubtless you can im- . prove upon them.” : _ “Let up, pard—your tongue runs at both eends this mornin’.” Cut it short arm let’s git to work,” impatiently muttered Hurricane. s , Sport; I’m running this machine. ‘You look to your barkers, and leave the fine ‘touches to me,” a little sharply replied Mustang Bam. Hurricane held his peace, and took a quick lg his revolvers. tis- ed that they were in their —— order, he a ciara oe! d’ y’ want to tr But I like to give aman a’) SAR ree Hurricane Bill. ‘Splits or tossups, I don’t keer which; then ce age try it on hossback,” was the brief reply. Vithout more ado, the borderers walked up to the corral, and Mustang Sam stood with his back against the huge square post upon one side of the gate. Drawing a long-bladed bowie- knife, he held it firmly with the haft resting up- on his head, the keen edge in front. After a critical glance, Hurricane Bill drew his revolver, cocked it and strode swiftly away. arm arose, clasping the dark-tubed weapon. At the | twentieth pace, he abruptly wheeled and his | ‘| stiletto from his bosom, placing the haft against ause scarce long enough for the wondering | ’ ‘ | toy, thus; he fires at it, and hits the point so rupted Mustang Sam. “We are all to. be mounted, armed as_we are now, to ride where | have you there?” demanded and how we op You are each to use a single - lasso. I will use my knife and yonder broken lance-butt. If I do not disable your lassoes, you win; if you fail to unhorse me before then, I win. No other person is to interfere, unless one of us attempts to make use of other weapons. than the ones named. Do you agree?” “ Yes, onlv—” y em, Aan = senor?” inquired Mustang, as he hesi- “T just happen to think that you might wish to leave some message for your friends. If so, we will wait for you,” laughed Don Blas. “Thank you for nothi senor. Did you’ | ever hear a coyote attempt iii te the cry of thes I have.” Rag igs ae oe is a fool trick o’ yourn, ung,” Hurri Bill, as the ider ‘ ‘
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4 j “Yes, you al’ays want all the fun yourself, engi but you know me—an’ you know Tornado, . In less’n ten minutes you'll see three badly- fooled greasers—an’ mebbe one on ’em with a ’ broken neck, fer he’s goin’ down, shore!” “Ef they should get the better o’ you, pard, ‘ you kin jest bet high thar’ll bea hullsale funeral ,’round hyar in hafe less’n no time. Vl show these greasers how a white man kin handle re- volvers.” ** You won’t have the chance, pard. I’mrun- , nin’ this machine,” laughed Mustang. ‘‘ Yonder \ they go!” As he spoke, Don Cavello and two picked men rode apart from the main body, holding their Loy in hand. Mustang Sam only paused to add: “Ef you see any foul play, sock it to’em, Hurricane; but don’t interfere onless.” Then galloping forward he bent low in the saddle and deftly picked up the broken lance- shaft; a stout piece of wood some six feet or more in length. Then making a half-circuit, he wheeled round and faced the three Mexicans. In obedience to a gesture from Don Blas, the two men shot out to the left and right, evidently meaning to close in with the American upon the flanks, while their chief attacked him in front, Mustang Sam sat quietly watching them, a bare bowie-knife in his right hand, his left grasping the bridle-reins and the broken shaft. A single moment of breathless interest, in which all eyes were riveted upon the brilliant figure of the bold scout, who was, apparently, the coolest person upon the grounds. Then came a sudden change. At a wild yell from the lips of Don Blas Cavello, the three horsemen dashed forward at full speed, the black, snake-like coils of the lassoes swiftly circling above their heads. Then the coils shot through the air, lengthening, sat in a sinuous tracery over the motionless orm. A cry of wondering apprehension burst from the Mexican spectators—echoed back in shriller tones from the stand where cluster the women. Surely this is sheer suicide—it seems as though the bold American had allowed himself to be caught and dragged from the saddle without a sing e attempt to avoid the deadly loops. uch is the first thought of the spectators, for Mustang Sam had not moved a muscle until it seemed as though the lassoes were touching his person. Then, however, his action was too ra- pid for the human eye to follow, and the next moment he was ascore of yards beyond the spot where the ropes fell! Choosing his time well, Mustang Sam raised his left hand to his forehead, thus forming a taut line with reins and the lance-shaft frog his head to that of Tornado, and as he felt the cold coils touch his arms, he touched his horse with the spur, at the same time peg 3 flat upon Tornado’s neck, thus casting off the coils. At the second leap of his noble horse, Mus- tang Sam wheeled abruptly; but it was not to await another attack. It was his turn to as- sume the offensive. With a low cry he pressed forward, selecting one of the two subordinates for his first prize. Seeing his object, the Mexican, who was hastily drawing in and “ers up his lasso, wheeled his animal and fled at f rayon) hoping to evade the American long ssa to get ready for an- other cast. But as w ight a rattlesnake hope to escape a prairie fire by flight, as for that stunted mustang to measure with the king of the desert!—bold Tornado. It was the wind racing with a flash of lightning. A score of these marvelous des, and then Mustang Sam bent low in the saddle; a flashing j{ hlade—and then the borderer laughed loud! uy as he arose holding on high the ring end of the Mexican’s lasso. ** Look out, Mustang—thar comes t’other cuss- es!” yelled Hurricane Bill, warningly; but his ; er was fully upon the alert. With another ringing laugh he wheeled around and sped away at an abrupt tangent, so as to bring the second vaquero nearest to him, while Don Blas was by two hundred yards away. The tators fair M held their breath as they * saw directl : y ps oes of es 4 ro, who was preparing to e his secon : Goat But in his haste to improve this favorable # opportunity, he fell into. the very trap laid for + by the quick-witted Mustang. It seemed as / though a single secord would the black horse beyond rte and this thought caused the Mexican to hurl the rope too hastily for accu- racy, and the black coil was flying over the pone ees when he flung up his stick and @ rope. Another cry broke from the spectators, and scout Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. Hurricane Bill half raised his revolver, with a | Blas drew his bright cuchillo, resolved to’ cut grating curse, ¢ been caught around the wrist while trying to cast aside the noose. Guiding Tornado simply by the pressure of his knees and theswaying of his body, the scout dashed toward the vaquero, drawing in the rope hand over hand, until within twenty feet of him. Then, like a flash, he circled round the as- tonished horseman, who, ere he divined the ob- ject of his antagonist, was hurled heavily to the eround, together with his horse, whose legs were entangled in the coil. Then, with one sweep of his knife, Mustang severed the lasso, and uttered a second yell of triumph. But at the moment he felt a snaky coil strike his head and breast, and knew that he was had galloped up just in time to avenge the down- fall of his last vaquero. His lasso, true to its shoulders, tightening around his chest, pinning both arms to his side, Had not Tornado been so perfectly trained, had he not so fully understood every motion, touch and tone of his rider, the daring scout would have ended his race then and there, for Don Cavello wheeled his horse to flee, intending to pluck his antagonist from the saddle, and once unseated, Mustang Sam would have met with slight mercy at the swart Mexican’s hands, for he had not forgotten the recent defeat he had suffered, and would risk the vengeance of Hurri- cane Bill, or even the just anger of his own coun- trymen at his breaking the rules of the trial, once he had the bold scout at his mercy. He imme- diately vowed not to check his horse while even the semblance of life remained in the body drag- ging helplessly at the saddle-bow. But Mustang Sam uttered a single cry—not one of pain nor of alarm, though he was even then jerked sharply backward until his shoul- ders touched the croup of his animal. It was a signal that Tornado perfectly understood and promptly obeyed, wheeling on his heels like a pivot, then with one great bound loosening the Sep ie lai upon his master’s body sufficient- ly to allow him to rise erect in the saddle. Don Blas Cavello was spurring furiously on, listening thirstily to hear the dull thud of the body striking upon the sand as it was plucked from the saddle; but this sound did not come. Instead, the strain of the lasso across his thigh was lessened, and he quickly turned his head to CE Bi back. furious curse broke from his ips. He saw Mustang Sam sitting erect in the saddle, while the big black stallion was dashing toward him with wonderful pi ee lessening the intervening distance with alarmin rapidity. And, a strange fear thrilling his heart, Don Blas plied both spurs and cutting quirt, leaning forward as though to urge his animal to greater speed by the weight of his body. Thrilling in every nerve, their eyes flashing, with bated: breath the spectators watched the result. But Hurricane Bill replaced his revol- ver in its scabbard, and leaning back in the saddle yelled and roared with mirth at this lu- dicrous change in the state of affairs, until his horse, frightened by his stentorian shouts, be- gan plunging and bucking with far more energy , than ease to its rider, causing the scout to put his utmost skill in play to prevent being thrown. ‘ j But one thing astonished the spectators, Mus- tang Sam still gallo on with the rope around y, not even having freed his arms from the horse-hair noose. What can itmean? Has he been injured by the violent jerk? If Don Blas should outrun the black mustang—and his animal is a good one, well known for both its speed and bottom—the scout may still be plutk- ed from the saddle. Hurricane Bill alone understands why his comrade acts thus. He knows that Mustang Sam has resolved upon teaching the sullen Mexican a lesson—a lesson that will be remem- bered as long as the breath of life remains in his body. et he means to teach this lesson without breaking either in letter or spirit the rules of the contest. This is why he does not cast off the noose, why he does not make use of the keen knife in his hand to sever the rope; and this is the reason, too, why To o does not more ily overhaul the fleeing Mexican. Don las is proud and self-conceited. His words and demeanor have evidenced this. love with Carmela Munez—that too is oa Then what must be his feelings fo fly like a very coward from a single man, with her bright eyes looking down upon his discomfiture? He was receiving a lesson—a bitter one. As theugh he meant to end it all at once, Don Ody - id « " . aT eh me § a Teri hs aim, acer fairly over the scout’s head and | All believed that Mustang had | | gra caught in the toils by Don Blas Cavello, who | the lasso, though it went strongly against the in. ‘* Hold!” shouted Mustang Sam, sharply, ‘remember the rules—you are to use no weap- ons but the lasso. Break them, and by the sternal! Pll shoot you like a coyote!” Don Blas hesitated, seemingly in doubt whether to brave the threatened shot, The de- lay was fatal to his hopes of escaping ignomini- ous defeat. In answer to a low, peculiar cry, Tornado increased his speed, fairly flying over the ground, and ten seconds later was treading on the spotted mustang’s heels. Then, for the first time since beginning the strange race, Mus- tang Sam touched the bridle-reins. Tornado rose into the air and bounded forward, alight- ing fairly upon the spotted mustang’s haunches crushing him to the ground like a blade of grass. At the same instant Mustang Sam sev- ered the lasso and rode over the struggling heap, laughing loud and shrilly. Ha! was that an echo? It is long-drawn, shrill and piercing—but it lacks the tinge of mirth. Again! Now other sounds mingle with it—the terrified shrieks of women—the quaver- ing shouts of men—almost drowned by the wild, blood-curdling chorus. ‘* Indians—Patchies, by the EKtarnal !” grit~ ted Mustang. And the scout was right. The Apaches were upon them, CHAPTER ITI. TWO BRAVE MEN, Tue Indians were upon them! Swiftly approaching in a crowded mass with au irregular front, the soft sand mufiling the thunder of their mustangs’ hoofs, now yelling loud and shrilly with triumphant cadence, as though celebrating their victory ere a single blow was dealt, And why not? They were dealing with the condemned, despised race— their ‘“‘slaves and providers”—the Mexicans. They are accustomed to see hundreds give way before tens during these forays. They seldom have to fight for their booty. More than one instance can be shown where less than a score of Apaches have char, upon and put to flight a f company of Mexican regulars. Scant wonder, then, that his war-party should prt so boldl , since they were fully the equal of the Mexicans in numbers, It may be strange how the Apaches could have drawn so near, unobserved, since there was little or no cover within nearly two — behind which they could have advanced. Bb the solution is plain, The attention of all was riveted upon the two horsemen before them, after ra a te dexterous defeat of the two vaqueros. e@ Te port of a cannon could scarcely have broken tha spell that held the spectators enchained--nauch less, then, the faint rumble of hoofs that alone marked the swift advance of the prairie horn- ets. Besides, the “grand stand ”—that occu- ied by the women—intervened; even had the Mexicans cast a glance behind them they could have seen nothing alarming. Thus it was that the thrilling war-whoop of the Apache chief first told them of the impend-~ ing peril. And then all was terror and confu- sion, dashing to and fro, hk cursing and praying in the same breath. F fi “Ye cursed fools!” yelled Hurricane Biil with angry contempt written upon his flushed. features, as he dashed his huge Buck-skin inta, the midst of the trembling, half distracted crowd, ‘‘ Think o’ y’ur weemin—will ye let the Patchies work their will on your wives an’ daughters ’ithout strikin’ a single lick to save ’em from wuss than death? To h—1 wi’ sech or’nary cowards! And with this emphatic expression of his opin- ion for the “ ” Hurricane Bill wheeled his horse and dashed around the end of the cor. ral, holding a cocked revolver in each hand. dT arms, friends—if we cannot save our dear ones, at least we will die defending them!" cried Don Munez, suddenly overcoming his con- fusion. ‘‘Quick—to the weapons yonder! Holy Mother of Mercy grant us strength and skill to preserve our helpless loved ones from this terrible danger!” . The Mexicans are not necessarily all cowards, though their mode of life is enervating. In this case they only needed a leader—one es en- kegs and pond po mook “yo Mignon Don Munez and son, Luis, ts) where their lan swords and fire-arms were stacked beside, she corral, they followed promptly enough. And as each man clutched the first weapon he could seize, a series of swiftly succeeding shots echo- ed from beyond the stand, mingled with wilt L
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Hurricane Bill. Phe of rageand death-agony. They knew that urricane Bill was at work, and a loud cheer broke from their lungs. When Hurricane Bill, ‘‘ of the Cherokee Na- tion,” dashed around the corral fence, he had only one thought; that the bright-eyed maiden whose beauteous face and soft tones had made | such a deep impression upon his heart, was in danger of death—or worse. Without giving a single thought to the danger he himself was run- ning, he galloped forward to place his body be- teen her and the enemy. It was the act of a ‘brave man, if not a "phagcibe : Fifty Wolf* Apaches, mounted on their small eat-like ponies, their half-naked bodies painte with varied and significant emblems, brandish- | ing their long scalp-bedecked lances, their fire- arms, their bows and arrows, yelling, whoop- ing, screeching like fiends fresh-loosed from | pandemonium for a holiday. And yet Hurricane Bill dashed forward to meet them with outstretched hands clasping the revolvers he knew so well how to handle, his face sternly set, his blue eyes glittering like burnished steel, his long yellow locks streamin out from beneath the gray felt hat like the tr of a comet. It was a thrilling—a glorious sight, In amazement at this strange and unlooked- for move, the Apaches, with little cries of won- der and doubt, involuntarily pressed hard upon their reins, checking their ial ag B yar: Al- most simultaneously, Hurricane Bill uttered a sharp cry, and his well-trained Buck-skin halted instantly, standing like a statue of clay before the dusky, paint-bedaubed horde. And then, so rapidly that mortal tongue could not follow the reports, the revolvers of the plainsman vomited forth their contents, carry- ing death into the closely-crowded ranks of the Apaches, emptying blankets and robes like ma- gic. So swittly did the reports succeed each other, that it sounded like one long roll of a tenor drum—as though the marksman was firing at random. But such was not the case. Nota bullet left its chamber until one of the astonished Apaches was covered with the silver drop. And the eye that had guided the six bullets against the keen 1 edge of Mustang Sam’s bowie-knife a short time reviously, did not fail the bold scout now. sis and unerring as though guided by the hand of fate, the Teaden missiles sped to their mark; and the air was rent with yells of death and agony, as savage after bay flung away their arms, dropping beneath the trampling hoofs, tearing and biting the hot sand in their last throes. All this occupied scarce a score of seconds, and before the Apaches could recover from the astonishment into which his bold and unlooked- for attack had cast them, Hurricane Bill had emptied his second revolver, and then, with a shrill, taunting laugh, he grasped the loose reins and wheeled his horse as though to seek safet in flight. This action seemed to break the spell that fettered the Indians, and they bethought themselves of their y it’ sae as they urged their anustangs over the ies of their fallen com- rades who were writhing in agony, or else still in the ermbrace of death. And muskets were fired, bows weredrawn and arrows loosed. But still the scout dashed on, his wild laugh madden- ing the savages as the missiles whistled through the air above and around him, not one even brushing his ments or touching a hair of unt Buck-skin, who was now stretching out Tike a full-blooded racer entering the home- stretch. As Hurricane Bill dashed up in front of the stand on which were kneeling the pale and terror-stricken women, he uttered a shout of en- couragement, just as the Mexicans, headed by Don Munez and Luis, rode around the cor- ner. “Give ’em glory!” yelled Hurricane, as he turned aside ‘se aetna a collision. “Ih be wi’ ¥you soon’s I kin load up. "Member you're fight- n’ fer more’n life now—it’s fer your wim- men!’ With these words he circled around, deftly removing the empty cylinders and replacing ‘them with two others, already loaded and cap- ped, which he took from his pocket. “Strike home, men—strike for our women— not an Apache shall touch them while one of us ean lift a hand in their defense!” thundered Mu- nez, as he his escopette, the bullet lodging in the breast of thé foremost mustang who fell, with an almost human scream o agony, pitching its dusky rider far over its “Sock it be ‘em, sports—work er up lively!” * One of the grand divisions of the Apache nation. . | like a flash into their midst. ‘‘ Whoo-oop! hyar’s | yur high-muck-a-muck from Ritter Creek—the squealin’ painter of Stinkin’ river—the untaim- | ed galoot as grows fat on powder-soup an’ lead | chow-chow—whoo-oop!” Bareheaded, a reckless smile upon his hand- | some features, a revolver in his left hand, the other clasping a heavy bowie-knife, Mustang Sam dashed down upon the Apaches as though utterly careless of life. Their arrows hurtled harmlessly past him—but they had not time to notch a second shaft ere he was upon them. his | revolver vomiting forth death, his bowie-knife cutting the air in swift circles as Tornado car- ried him into the very midst of the enemy. And the noble stallion tore at the mustangs witb | his strong, white teeth, and struck out.at them viciously with his fore feet, clearing a path for himself with wonderful celerity. And now the bold rider sways quickly in the saddle as a gleaming lance-point almost brushes his breast and catching the shaft under his arm he snaps it short off, at the same time bringing down his | heavy-bladed knife with resistless force. The Apache instinctively flung up his arm to ward off the blow, but the keen blade would not be denied, and the half-severed member was pinned tight to the warrior’s massive chest, while the guard and full half of the horn hatt was hid- ai in the quivering arm, so furious was the ow. With one ineffectual effort to free his knife Mustang Sam released it, and drawing a second revolver, opened a fresh fusilade, while Tor- nado, at a touch of its rider’s heel, began kick- ing and plunging, wheeling swiftly here and there, betting backs the infuriated Apaches who sought to close with the plainsman. And, his shrill laugh rising even above the horrible tumult, Mustang Sam plied his deadly revolvers, bending and swaying, at times fairly out of the saddle as he dextrously evaded the lance-points, hatchets and knives that were hurled at him by the maddened savages. He was in his element now. His was a nature that reveled in danger—at no time was he so happy as when owing his life to the strength of his hand, the quickness of his eye—as when he was in the midst of death and bloodshed; he seemed a very battle-fiend. The Mexicans charged boldly enough, for they were greatly encouraged by the reckless daring and astonishing prowess displayed by the border brothers, proof of which lay thick strewn upon the sands. And, when their constitutional dread of the Apaches—it may well be called this, since it is handed d-uwn from father to son, generation after generation; and to this day, one hundred Apaches can ride from one end of Mexico to the other without being attacked, so thoroughly have the Mexicans been cowed. Yet, when penned, they need only a leader to show fight—ay, and to fight manfully, too. And so—after a hasty volley of escopette bullets which, badly aimed of course, did Tittle execution—they rged home with leveled lances and drawn swords, led by Don Munez and Luis, who galloped side by side, And then ensued a confused, a ee yet always thrilling tableau of death. No one thought of keeping ranks, but ip be ae a foeman, lost sight of all else until death filmed the eyes of one or the other. And high above the shrill yells, the hoarse cheers and curses, the shrieks of pain and rage, the frantic, unearthly screams of the half-tamed mustangs as they tore and bit at each other, emulat; the bloodthirsty fury of their masters, the clatter and clink of opposing weapons, the muffled thunder of the horses’ hoofs, arose the clear, taunting laugh of the Mad Rider as he added to the list of deaths scored against hisname. It wasa wild, thrilling scene—one that a skillful brush might give a faint idea of; but what pen can dilineate such a confused duel a la mort? And then the Mexicans succeeded in cutting a bloody path through their dusky enemies— though it was more through the frantic efforts of the horses to extricate themselves from the enemy once more, and, by so doing, they faced the stand occupied by the ladies. simultane- ous yell of horror broke from their lips. A new horror threatened them, . A number of the Apaches had not paused to de ng matte steps of the frail pavil- up the 0 pa tant, their | howled Mustang Sam, as Tornado carried him | cs ae x a OOP nm ms who cowered there, ape eI together as if for mutual protection, too terrified to shriek. A single scream, wild and piercing as that of the war-eagle—something that seemed like a flash of yellow light—and then the rapid detona- | tions of revolvers. It was Hurricane Bill, who had just discover- ed the purpose of the Apaches, and vi slipped the extra cylinders into place, he ur, Buck-skin to the rescue. In as many seconds, two of the apes bit the dust; and then— leaping from the saddle without pausing to rein . in Buck-skin, Hurricane alighted half-way up the flight of steps, in the very midst of the as- tounded Apaches. And once more the daring plainsman gave an ” exhibition of his wondrous quickness of eye and accuracy of aim, never a missile missing its mark, nearly every one carrying death upon its , swift-wings. And as yet not a single blow had beep aimed at him by the stupefied heathens. But then one of thena-cas wretch whose back had been broken by a bullet—dragged himself - by main strength over the step upon which he was lying, and roiled heavily against the scout’s feet. Hurricane Bil! was standing sideways, facing the two surviving braves, when he was » thrown heavily down by the body striking his feet from under him. This accident seemed to break the spell, and the two Apaches leaped toward him with up- lifted hatchets. The plainsman could not re- cpp his feet in time to meet and parry their low. Death seemed inevitable, and a wailing ery broke from the trembling women as they closed their eyes to shut out the dread fate of their brave defender. But like magic another figure oa upon the scene, and there was a steely gleam through the air—then another of blood-red hue. Twa strokes of a straight, heavy sword—two blows ! that, delivered by a stout arm X Smug by a prac, 4 ticed eye, carried death with them. Sweeping the blood-stained blade around hit head, the new-comer cried, in a clear, ringing tone: ‘*Ho! men—to the rescue!” : It was none other than Don Blas Cavello, whe | had hastily cleared himself from the struggle: ; of his crippled mustang, and seeing the ap preecee. Apaches, had run swiftly to wherr e had deposited his weapons when entering in to the contest of skill with Mustang Sam. Se curing these, he hastened to join his men; for whatever might be his failings cowardice w ‘ not one of them. Just as he rounded the corral, ; he saw the savages clambring up toward the ; helpless women, and, in his mad passion for f Carmela, he thought not of the peril he might ' incur, but dashed to her assistance, Hurricane Bill outstripped him, but he was just in time ta ° foil the exultant Apaches, and, thanks to his t sword, save the scout’s life. ‘Bully fer you, sport—you’re a brick!” cried } Hurricane, scrambling to his feet. ‘‘ But look out—hyar the varmints come, red-hot fer ha’r!” The Apaches were indeed coming. They— like the whites—had witnessed the dare-devil ; act of Hurricane Bill, and their rage was raised to perfect frenzy as they saw the rapid slaughter of their comrades, ith furious yells they ce d, for the moment forgetting the foes ° they ust separated from, seeing oy the | man who had dealt such swift, deadl ows to their hopes, And close upon their heels ' e Me ghee it out, pard—hyar we come—whoo- 00) For your women, men—think of them and . strike home!” thundered Don pee boyy his bloody word asaspur, ‘ One stout blow, and ! the victory is ours!’ The Apaches dashed on as though they meant to d A peculiar, crac sound was heard as keen sword swept around, -heads fell clattering to the . from the stout shafte. Again whirled around, this time sinking deep flesh and bone—for the leading A if Le Lae eititere eee i were at work: —* > = ae
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6 Beadle’s Half-Dime Librar terror were mingled with those of death- agony. With a howl of inexpressible fury, Mustang Sam sprung from Tornado’s back and plunged into the mass, using his terrible bowie-knife with all the skill and dexterity of its famed in- ventor. And for a few moments he was alone in the midst of his enemies, a number of whom turned upon him thirsting’ for his blood, for they recognized the man who had written his name so deeply upon their ranks. Then Don: Munez and his comrades appeared upon the scene and pressed the enemy hard, for they fought now more like maddened wild beasts than mere men, with the sight of their rourdered loved ones for an incentive. And the Apaches began to sicken of this deadly, unceas- ing pressure. Only that they had been wrought up fo maniacal frenzy, their heavy loss would have cowed them, long since. Though so hardly pressed, Mustang Sam re- cognized the voice of feicdors raised in a cry for help, and caught a glimpse of her struggling in the arms of a brawny warrior, who appeared to be bearing her away. And then he fairly out- did himself. No sye could follow his motions— but ten seconds later he found himself free, he could not explain how. He had lost his knife but had snatched up a stout sword, then leaped down the steps, whistling to Tornado. He could see the Apache just dashing away over the plain, bearing the struggling maiden in his arms, three or four comrades riding behind him. And then, just as he sprung into the sad- dle, Mustang Sam. saw the Indian raise his clenched fist and strike the maiden a cruel blow, to still her efforts to escape. Then Isidora lay like one dead in his arms. -fToo full of rage to speak or shout, Mustang Sam plied his spurs mercilessly and thundered after the fugitives, unheeding the short whicker of remonstrance that came from the astonished Tornado at this unwonted usage. Before a mile was covered, the noble black carried its master up to the Apaches, who were doing their best to escape. And then, with two sweeping strokes, that severed flesh and bones like so much snow, Mustang Sam found himself within arm’s length of the savage abductor who, seeing that flight was useless, attempted to plunge a knife into the swelling bosom, that just touched his chest. But thought itself was not quicker than the motion of the Mad Rider, and a yell of agony broke from the savage’s lips as his forearm fell tothe ground. The keen sword had severed it as one adroit stroke. And the next moment Mustang Sam caught.the drooping form of Isi- dora in his arms, and dashed forward, Tornado uttering.a piercing neigh of pain. Glancing back, Mustang Sam saw the remaining Apache notching a second shaft, the first having pene- trated ‘Tornado’s hind leg. Incumbered as: he was with the just reviving maiden, and armed | only with the sword, his revolvers being empty, , there.was only one course left; he must. seek . Bafety for his charge in flight, at least unti] he could prepare his pistols. Flight not only from the one Apache, whose .comrades: he had siain or disabled; the backward glance showed.. him over a dozen of the Apaches riding swiftly to- | ward him, ‘They-had been defeated at the pa- vilion, and now, seeing this doubly-laden horse, had doubtless resolved,to wreak their vengeance upon them. At first Mustang Sam felt like: laughing, knowing what Tornado was capable of, even when doubly laden, as now. But then he saw, or felt, that the black was running heavily, as though distressed. And he knew that the ar- row had injured some of the tendons of his leg. Yet the noble: brute thundered on.. He would not succumb to anything less than death. Yet, as mile after. mile was traversed, Mus- tang Sam saw that the savages were slowly but | | | steadily overhauling them. The result could | only bea matter of time. hilis beyond loomed up nearer, he hoped to reach some point where he could make a stout fight for life, and make the victory a dear one to the savages. With this thought he caréfuily re- loaded his revolver; a. task easier than may be supposed, since he had only to bite off the end of the paper cartridges, then ram them home. While thus engaged, Tornado reached the hills, and entered a narrow pass. A wild ery broke from Isidora’s pallid pa ' Laipgli Ne Holy Mother of Mercy! we are entering .a pocket!” . ; pu CHAPTER EV. M3 dacs HURRICANE BILL PLAYS A ‘‘ LONE HAND.” Bora Hurricane Bill and Don Blas Cavello went down before the mad rush of the Apaches, Still, as the range.of | ~ and it seemed as though their lease of life had about expired. But such was not the case with Hurricane, at least. The thread of his life was not yet all reeled out. To his other border accomplishments, Hurri- cane Bill added thatof a ‘first-class rough-an’- | tumble operator.” This was and is an accom- plishment almost indispensable to a life along the border—in Kansas, Texas, and, particularly, the Indian Territory—unless One wished to go | Of the two methods | under with his boots on. of arranging such little differences as might chance to arise between friends, a “ rough-and- tumble” was far more popular than knife-play or revolver-practice, because the argument was more protracted, affording the epicurean spec- tator ample time te digest the more brilliant points ; while, as Long Sen Hackett told me in 67—‘‘ Tother way’s over too durned quick. Three times now, hey I bin whar Hurricane Bill laid out his man, but, though I looked all I knowed how, durned ef he wasn’t so lightnin’ quick thet it was all over afore I knowed who he was pepperin’!” But I digress. Hurricane Bill now gave the Apaches a speci- men of his rough-and-tumble science, not a lit- tle to their discomfiture. Just as they made the frantic rush, the scout had emptied his re- volvers, and thrust them hastily into his breast to draw his bowie. But then his foot slipping in a pool of blood, he fell heavily, beneath half a dozen Apaches, The shock was severe, but Hurricane Bill did not stop to ask whether any bones were broken. Putting his utmost strength into play, he rose half-erect, lifting the tangled lump of Apaches, and getting both feet well beneath his body. Then, ho!—though the effort seemed about to tear the members from their sockets — he wrenched his arms free. The Apaches were trying to use their weap- ons, but their very haste and blind rage proved the scout’s preservation. The strokes and thrusts were widely deliver- ed, and half were intercepted by clashing with some other weapon. The other blows were oftener received by copper-skins than white, though hot blood trickled from more than one wound upon Hurricane Bill’s body. But in the intense excitement. he scarce knew that he was touched—most assuredly he was not weakened. ’ \ His arms free, Hurricane Bill shot out bis | hard fists in swiftly-repeated; blows, with a | careless disregard of consequences, flattening noses, loosening teeth and making ‘cross-eyed Indians, whose optics had heretofore been as | straightforward as their owners’ consciences had been crooked. Confused and bewildered by these—to them— novel tactics, the Apaches fell or were knocked back, and then, finding himself free, Hurricane Bill flashed forth his bowie-knife, and cutting down the nearest savare with one swift blow, he dashed. up the steps and plunged into the mingled mass of Indians and Mexicans. A hoarse, howling yell broke from his lips as he saw Carmela struggling in the ruthless grasp of a wiry Apache, whose left hand was:wreath- edin her long hair, brutally pulling her head back, while a blood-dripping knife -was quiver- ing above the snow-white throat..And the same glance. showed Hurricane that. he could not reach her side in ime to ward off the im- pending blew, for half a dozen bodies interven- ed locked together in a death-grapple. Thought was not.swifter than his action. The heavy bowie-knife left his hand and cleaving the air like a meteor, sunk to the very hilt in the Apache’s: throat. A gurgling, strangling cry, and then the bloody weapon descended. “hands being rage ied vane —o ———y ty, Hurricane Biil leaped down and dashed! back to the pavilion to play his part in the last: act of the tragedy. Just as he was clambering up the pavilion side, a begrimed and blood- stained face was thrust close to his, and a hoarse voice uttered: “f ‘“Where is she—what have you aone with Carmela?” “In the small corral—go look after her— you’re wounded and can’t do much fighting,” wromptly replied Hurricane, recognizing Don las in the questioner. The Mexican uttered something more, but what it was Hurricane Bill never knew. It was at this moment that Mustang Sam called up Tornado and dashed off in hot pursuit of the B= ey who had fled with Isidora, urricane recognized the signal, and darted forward to see what it meant. A single glance told him how affairs stood, and he instantly whistled for Buck-skin, forgetting all else but the ril into which his loved partner was rushing. Not only from the four Indians whom he wag chasing, but the Apaches—those who had sur- vived the furious struggle—were all fleeing, mounting their horses in hot haste, pursued by the victorious Mexicans. Hurricane saw that Mustang Sam was riding direct toward the heart of Apacheria, the course that would al- most certainly be followed by the retreating red-skins. And caught between two fires, the bold scout could scarcely escape capture or death, unless something turned up in his favor. ** But they cain’t have it all thar own way— cuss ’em! I'll take a hand in this little game, myself! Cuss that Buck-skin—whar is the crit- ter?’ gritted Hurricane Bill, as he leaped to the ground and darted out upon the plain, still sounding his shrill summons. It was scarce a minute, though to the impa- tient scout it appeared ten times that period before the shrill whickerof Buck-skin was heard in reply, as the big horse came galloping around the corral. Emulating his master, Buck-skin had been giving the Apache mustangs a taste of bis metal, and sundry wet and bleeding spots upon his long body prived that he had not es- bes ecot-free, lurricane Bill leaped into the saddle, shout- ing to the Mexicans to iollow bis lead. But he did not wait to eee whether they obeyed or not. Giving Buck-skin a touch of the spurs, he dart- ed, straight as an arrow. toward the cloud of k.. dust which he knew hovered above Mustang Sam. Other eyes were rivited upen this same oint,' but Hurricane Bill gave them little heed. fustang Sam wes in danger, and only one thing could prevent the tail plainsman from sharing in that peril—death. Occasionally touching up Evek-skin with the spur, Hurriéane let the reim lie loose, both loading his -revolvers. Biting off the folded ‘bit of pxper so he could pour the powder into the chamber, thus making | ‘a mnies fire the next thing to imposible, he deft- But it was unguided.’ The Indian fell back, | death-stricken, The knife, falling, banely graz- ed the cheek of Carmela, who knew:\not how narrowly she had escaped death, for ‘she had fainted. His arms seemed, to possess. the power of a weaver’s beam,as Hurricane Bill cleared his way to. Carmela’s ‘side, nor did he\take time to selech Apaches alone. as the recipients of his blows—both red-skin and white went down be- fore his mad rush, And then stamping upon the tight-clenched hand: of the Apache as the quickest-method of freeing Carmela’s hair, the scout lifted her in his arn‘s and leaped down into the corral below. The terrified cattle were plunging to and fro, wrought to fury by the horrible admixture of sounds from above, and it was-not without actual. peril that Bill. crossed the corral and pore ae fence: of the smaller inclosure, from whic bulls had been freed to furnish sport for the horsemen. Lightly dropping the half-senseless maiden into the—as he believed—place of safe- as will be remembered, all the selected: ly plied the lever, ramming each ball securely home. Then slipping the caps upoi. the nipples, ressing each one down with the hammer, in oe than five minutes Hurricane Bi/l was ready for work. And as he cast a keen glance around, he for the first time realized vy "hat a task he had set himself. Far ahead was Mustang Sam, wh? had so dexterously rescued Isidora from the Apaches, but Tornadoseemed to be running!with unu- sual héaviness, like one utterly exhauste |, every moment losing ground. ‘Behind him, an 1 about as far in front of Hurricane Bill, were scattered over a score of Apache warriors, each one urging on his pony with voice and heel cager to secure the scalp of the “‘big white: bray .” It | was a novel aceneé; this triple race. Hurricane Bill knew from their actions that théy had just noticed him, and glancing back, | he saw that the Mexicans had entirely with: drawn from the pursuit, evidently having bad their fill of -fighting. That the Indians were also aware of this fact, Hurricane now had em- je proof. Half -a dozen of the hindmost jraves allowed the speed of their animals to} slacken, while they looked at their bows and arrows. “The blue of the scout’s eyes deepened to a steely glitter as he quickly gathered up and knotted the long reins over Buck-skin’s neck. But he gave no evidence of backing out from the trap that was being set for him. Mustang Sam was ahead, and Hurricane Bill had re- solved to Nr him, if mortal man’ could. If necessary, hé would have run the gantlet of the entire Apache nation. Sitting firmly erect in the saddle, as though disdaining to bend his proud head, the plains- man ur Buck-skin on over the saridy waste with a low, encouraging cry, and nobly did
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7-__- Hurricane Bill. iat CARAS eee =~ aoeens the yellow horse respond. The Apaches—six in number—after many glances over their shoul- ders, suddenly wheeled, dividing into two ties, the better to attack their Sold enemy. elling like perfect fiends, they charged down ‘upon the young plainsman, as though fearful lest the big horse should rob them of their prey by turning in flight. But in this they were soon set at rest. Hurricane Bill had not the slightest intention of flight. Crack—crack! Almost together the two re- volvers spoke, one to the right, the other to the left of Buck-skin’s head. Their blow forestalled, and with such effect, the Apaches became flur- : ried and discharged their arrows with an un- steady aim, only one of the four reaching its murk. Hurricane Bill coolly snapped the shaft, leaving the barbed head still sticking in his shoulder. And then, as he dashed abreast the Indians, bis revolvers spoke again. A moment later he was speeding on after the main body, a low, taunting laugh coming back to the two un- - burt Apaches behind, who seemed stupeficd by their easy defeat. Hurricane Bill was now petinariy gaininz upon the Apaches, as well as upon Mustang Sam. , He knew that gallant Tornado must have been injured, else, even while doubly laden, he would , have shown the swiftest of his pursuers a clean , pair of heels. j ‘He means to go under a-kickin’,” muttered Hurricane Bill, as he saw how steadily Mustang Sam was making for the narrow pass in the range of hills. *‘ It'll be hot work, but I reckin } we kin pull off the odds.” There was still time for him to re-charge the four chambers he bad emptied, and Hurricane { hastily did so, Then, with a wild yell, he plung- ed spurs rowel deep into Buck-skin’s sides and dashed forward like a human thunderbolt. The faithful revolvers vomited forth their foes leaden contents, and then the big States horse nik dashed into the body of savages, knocking the fac Mi Cssaerdd ia 8% diminutive ponies right and left, just as a New- foundland dog will seatter a lot of yelping pup- pies. “Flurray! Mustang—sock it to ’em!” yelled Hurricane, as he reached the narrow entrance, and disposed of one of the three savage horse- men who blocked up the way. A ringing cheer replied, and the pistol-shot from within duplicated the tall scout’s perform- ance, The other Apache, seeing the huge Bucke- skin rearing up as though about to crush both hinr and mustang-to the ground, quickly slipped .from his animal and darted out of» danger. _ With a wild laugh of exultation, Hurricane Bill lunged forward, and the next moment found im beside Mustang Sam. ‘‘Whoo-oop! I said Pd jine ye, pard, an’ I , didn’t lie,” laughed Hurricane Bill, as he wheel- ed Buck-skiniso as to face the narrow entrance. “But why didn’t ye run away from ’em? What's wrong wi’ the blackie?” at Arrow—ieared he’s: bad hurt—but look out! : : “Let ’em come—they'll soon sicken of it,” « goolly rep ied Biil, cocking bis revolver. “I » could whip a tribe hyar, wnyself, an’ wi’? you— thar ain’t red-skins enough this side o’ h—1 to faze us—not much!” “Then Vi look to he»—I gr ee her under kiver, when I turned,” added Mustang, leaping from Tornado’s back and disappearing amid the bushes, ; Hurricane Bill followed his example, so far as dismounting was concerned, and then glided stealihily forward under cover of the bushes until he could peer cut upon. the level plain. ‘ . france, jabbering together excitedly. From the few words the scout could catch, he knew that the paity was about equally divided in opinion, ‘ a portion urging an immediate retreat, the others wishing first to wipe out the three pale- . faces, One ci the party who had slready been ‘wounded several times, declared that it was yank folly to think of attacking such big medi- >» @ine men in thet place, where not more than two i braves cui aclvance abreast. With their medi- cine guns which never needed reloading, the ‘pale braves could kill the Apaches one after an- _ other as fast as they couid advance. There was ' no other way to reach them, except by the nar- “yow pass. Therefore, he voted bor a retreat. ,> The Great Spirié was angry with His children . from seme cause, sud it would be more than & folly te tempt his iispleasure further. . “TJ reckon it’s time to putin my vote!” chuckl- re ps Bui Bill, as be covered one of the x pac "a d'\ Ra, ‘ digaln the terrible weapo: spoke then, with yells of dismay, the d and fied im ‘disorder, thinking as ; ae fee ' z r trite pare He saw the Apaches grouped beside the .en-/ unerringly. . of ; leaving the region that had been so fatal to them, that day. “Take it cool, pard,” laughed Hurricane, as Mustang Sam dashed up to his side. ‘ Thar’s no hurry. The fun’s over fer to-day, anyhow. Whoo-oop! this is like old times ag’in!” ** She said it was a ‘ pocket,’ but I reckon we'd better make tracks from this, as thar may be another trail hyar,” muttered Mustang Sam, with unusual prudence, Hurricane chunked, He could give a shrewd guess at the cause of this sudden change in the usually reckless plainsman. Perhaps from sympathy—quien sabe? Mustang now looked after Tornado. He found an arrow sticking in the noble black’s hind leg, which, while not seriously injuring the tendon, had almost prevented that member from being used. A steady hand and keen knife soon re- moved the barb, and Tornado, as if to express his relief, uttered a shrill whicker. Mounting, Mustang Sam rode back a few yards and stoop- ing lifted the form of Isidora Munez in his arms, then motioned for Hurricane Bill to léad the way. re thus they took up the back trail. Isidora strangely subdued. She lay confidingly in the strong arms of the man who had dared so much to save her, though her eyes sunk beneath the ardent light that filled his black eyes. CHAPTER V. A FRESH COMPLICATION, THat ride of over two hours—for the scouts were not men to overtask their faithful brute companions when there was no absolute need of it, and both Tornado and Buck-skin had put in a heavy day’s work—amply repaid Mustang Sam for the wounds he had received, and was one never forgotten in after lifé. Isidora was lying quietly in his arms, one hand resting lightly upon his shoulder, the other clasped in his br warm palm, her head reposing upon the Mad Rider’s—now so subdued and tamed— breast, while her long, fringed lids sunk beneath his ardent gaze, a soft flush tinging her cheek. And Hurricane Bill—thoughtful fellow !—rode on in advance, whistling carelessly, rarely glancing back, and whenever he did turn his eyes in that direction, to assure himself that none of the Apaches were returning for revenge Tornado and his double burden might as well have been in the moon for all that the tall plainsman saw. There is no getting around it, reader, Mustang Sam had “fallen in love ”—over head and ears —with Isidora Munez, though he had never laid his eyes upon her, never even suspected the existence of such a person, before that morning. Until then he had scoffed at the idea of pay true plainsman-tying himself down to a duil, acide life with any woman—as for him, he would die as he had lived, free as air. And he meant it, too—at that time. But the first bright glance from Isidora’s large, lustrous eyes, so plainly telling what e thought of the handsome, dashing cavalier of whom so many and marvelous tales had been told by such of the “neighbors,” who had been in arms against the “ heretic invaders,” sent the hot blood coursing through his veins in‘a new and delightfully-embarrassing manner. And then the touch of her little hand—so soft, so caressing, almost; that drove the nail to the head—and the tragic scenes that followed, in which he had preserved her from a captivity worse than death, clenched it firmly. Mustang /Sam knew that he was “‘ corraled ” at last—an he struck while the iron was hot, too. Just as he had entered into the sports of the Mexicans, just as he had plunged into the heat of the fighting, just so did the plainsman “make love.” Even while fleeing before the Apaches, when he felt that death was almost inevitable—that their moments of life were numbered—he had bent his head and pressed his lips to hers, mut- tering. that they could at least die together— that such an ending would be far preferable than to live on without her. And now, on the back trail that led to her friends, Mustang Sam repeated these words. and Isidora?. She an- swered him very simply. She raised her head and pressed her ripe, juicy lips to his.. At that moment Mustang Sam was in the seventh heaven. ‘ t Rather quick tye you say, reader? Admit- ted. In our cold clime, Mustang Sam would have been deemed “impudent—a savage, un- civilized;” -Isidora, ‘forward, unmaidenly.” But in Mexico they ma these things ditt er- ently. It is a “land of fire ”—and nothing is more infiammable than the hearts of the Mexi- can wi But there—I will attempt no ely a oz apology. I give Mustang Sam’s courtship just as it actually occurred, and as he was satisfied, surely you need raise no objections. ‘“Yonder is the corral,” suddenly observed Hurricane Bill, without turning his head until he felt assured the attention of his companions was attracted, ‘‘an’ yonder come the greasers, lickety split. Reckon you'd better let the young lady take a seat ahind me, pard; ‘pears 1 Tornado is a little tired.” ‘“‘Not yet, Billy, old boy,” laughed a his voice filled with a proud joy. “ We've gbe a long trail afore us—her an’ I—which wo eend ontel one or both o’ ts goes under, an“; reckon we cain’t begin it at a better time t now. Isidora, little one, this is my pardiG@, ~ the best an’ truest heart on the plains—ys must love him a little, fer my sake.” ‘ ““So—ho! that’s the way the cat jumps, thei I knowed it—I felt it in my bones!” jaug Hurricane; but then, in a quiet, serious cok lk he added: ‘ Little one, good Iuck, an’ G blessin’ go wi’ you. You couldn’t ’a’ pic out a.truer or better man then the one as 1s naw a-holdin’ you. He’s the same, come rain er shine. Ef you cain’t be happy wi’ him, then you're in hard luck. An’ as Sam sais, y must like me a little, too, fer he an’ me is payal- ners—I mouzht say brothers, we cotton to eagh other so. Eut thar—your folks is a-comin’ fast, an’ I won’t say any more now.” ‘*Not one word ‘bout little one’s sister, &, Hurricane?” ‘**T reckon it’d sound better said to the siste laughed Hurricane Bill, his cheek flushi “ Mebbe I'll ax little one to put ina good wi fer me thar, ef I think thar’s ord chaine hello! what’s the matter wi’ them! What they yellin’?’ a The party of horsemen whom the tall scd@t 7 had first observed as they rode rapidly tow 4 4 the trio, from the corral, were now within e shot, and were uttering loud cries, though th ay words could not be distinguished as yet. 4 quick glance around dissipated the first thougl, that an enemy had suddenly hg in an coi ‘ ance, and not a little puzzled, the two sco rode on, until they were met by Dow Munez his son, who led the party of Mexicans, “My child—my daughter—where is sh@”’ gasped, rather than cried, the old Spaniard, face ashen white. ® ‘*Here, senor, safe and unhurt,’ plied Mustang. “The Virgm be.praised that she is* say But Carmela—where is she?” added Don oer : promptly ne- Isidora uttered a little cry of: apprehensi The two scouts interchanged rapid glancgs. Then Hurricane Bill replied, though his vo trembled, despite his attempt at self-control. ** Did you look in the corral? I put her ther > out 0’ the way\o’ the fightin’, an’ then lit out po help Mustang hyar git back the lady—which we did, as you see.” “We looked in every place—she is gone, Car- mela, my child—my poor child!” Ere 4 tered Don. Munez, while Isidora and Luis - ed their lamentations to his. “Thar must. be some mistake—the Pies didn’t kerry her off, or I’d’a’see’d somethin ™® her. The hull kit tuck this trail—but thar was only her. Thar’s some deviltry—whar’s greaser that my pard hyar rid cown—the b one, dressed like a-monkey, T mean!” “He. isn’t here—I don’t—” muttered Munez, glancing around wpon his companio “He must have fallen in the fight. Lhav seen him since.” . “Then he went under after J left the co but .hev any one o’ ye noticed his karkidge— ye sure he’s dead?” The Mexicans one and all slowly shook their heads. They did not remember having seer Don Blas since the fight first were too busy with los Indios, Hurricane Bill said no more, but touchdll § Buck-skin with the spur and galloped swiftly te — the corral. Leaping from the nae upon tke fence he entered the smaller corral—theone in which he had ieft Carmela Munez.” It war @ pty. uickly, yet with a keen eye that al- lowed nothing to escape it, the scout quartered — the ground, examining every foot of the incle- sure, H's discoveries were purely megative. There was 10 sign of a struggle having taken ‘place, for th ugh the sandy was deeply ca up and scorea by the hoofs of the bullsthecorr@l = recently contained, this would not have prevem- _ Hurricane from reading signs made after- werd. There was.no blood trace—nothing to— tell of a tragedy be je 2 been enacted. | mela seemed to have vanished into empty eir. - At et Hurricane Bill turned to the pa: who | been anxiously awaiting the 2 ’ V7 Sse@a opened. & Thay
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being restrained by Mustang Sam from inter- rupting the scout. ‘Now, gentlemen, when you answer me a few questions, then ll tell you what ’clusion I’ve rived at. Fast—who among you knows this | i | without Joaquin’s occasional gleam of chivalry ) | dashing gallantry. Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. —= Had ‘‘the man in the moon” suddenly drop- ed into their midst, the little party could not 1ave been more thoroughly astonished. BLACK GarRcIA—the Joaquin Murieta of Mexico; only it was Joaquin’s blood-thirstiness unredeemed by Joaquin’s fearless daring and A cut-throat, a robber, a cattle-thief—woe betide the unlucky wight who fell into the hands of the Black Mexican. Death was certain—often preceded by tortures the most digbolical. ‘*Shet up!” sternly commanded Hurricane Bill, adding. ‘‘ What was he after, here? Why was he in disguise?” ‘*He swore he must have the Senorita Car- mela for his bride. He meant to carry her off | to the retreat—” feller yon called Don Cavello?” “T know this much,” said Don Munez. ‘“ He, together with four men—his vaqueros, he said —sivpped for the night at my house, five days since. He said be was a stranger in these parts, that he was on an expedition after a drove of horses, which he intended to drive to Santa Fe for a tuaricet. AsTI had a few hundred head I | wished to dispose of, I invited him—as he ap- pepred to be.a gentleman—to make my house bis home nustil after our little festa, when prob- ably we could ecoine to terms. Thatis all I know of hiin—but why do you ask?” Is any of his men hyar now?’ **No—none are here but neighbors—perhaps they were all s!ain—” hositated Don Munez. **One was—or badly wounded,” eagerly in- terrupted a Mexican. ‘ He lies at the pavilion, yonder, in great ayony, praying for a priest that he may not die without absolution.” ** Now, gentlemen,” quickly added Hurricane Ball, “PH tell you what J think. Mind, Pve no proof, but ’spicion p’ints strong that a-way,” and he told how he met Don Cavelio, the ques- tion and his answer, and that he had noticed the | Mexican running toward the smaller corral, as he dashed out to help Mustang Sam. “ The lady is gone. Injuns didn’t kerry her off—but some- body must ’a’ did it—fer ’tain’t likely she’d ’a’ | run away herself, even ef she could ’a’ got out e’ that pen without help. I believe this man you call Don Cavello hes kerried her off.” ** But it don’t seem—what reasons could he have?” “Wait ontel we see this wounded man o’ hes’n. It'll go hard, but we'll git the truth out oe him. Mind—you ain’t ary one o’ you to in- tarfere, no matter what I may say or do. I’m workin’ fer the good 0’ your daughter, old man, bat I won’t stand no foolin’. The fust critter aa throws as much as a straw in my way, down gees his apple-cart!” “* Hyar’s one to back ye, pard,” quietly utter- ed Mustang Sam. “No one will interfere—but make haste! Think what she—my poor Carmela!—think what she must be ering now, if it be as you 8 t,” groaned the almost distracted father. *T do think, old man—I only wish I didn’t think so much, fer we all need cl’ar brains now, ef we ever did afore,” said Hurricane Bill, lead- a, the way to the pavilion. he wounded man was found lying with seve- ral others, upon the blood-stained floor of the pavilion, groaning with my, a lance-thrust with several minor wounds marking his body. It was the second vaquero whom Mustang Sam had overthrown in the contest of knife vs. lasso. It was evident that his race was well nigh run, aud Hurricane’s pride revolted from threaten- ing a dying man; but then, as he remembered Carmela, he steeled his nerves. * Look here, my man.” he said in the suffer- er’s own tongue, as he held a revolver before the Mexican’s eyes while he cocked it ifi- cantly. ‘‘Do you want to live long enough to mutter a prayer, or would you rather be tied up to this post for me to split bullets on as I did with the knife this mo 1A! The wounded man ay; his eyes with a exican who will face shudder of terror. A cold steel in an enemy’s hand witbout flinch- ie in nine cases out of ten, show the te feather at sight of a pistol. Hurricane Bil had counted the chances closely. “What have I—a d man—done, senor?” gagpel the vaquero, h y. Not so fast—I am to ask the questions and yeu are to answer them, friend. But first, let mee tell you what will be the result if you refuse. ‘You know how I can shoot; very well. I will lve you tied up to a post, then I’ll pick off bed airs one by one. If this isn’t enough, break your bones one by one with bullets— but there. You understand me. If you are reasonable, and speak plainly, not only will we to cure you up, but we'll send for a padre te Bive you absolution—” [ will answer—will truthfully, no matter what questions you ask,” earerly mut- the wretch. “Do, and it will be better for you. First, then—~who is this man—your v.aster—whom oe pais offers the aquero lifted his ith a spasmodic effo: v head and cast a swift glance around. Then, oa ae ee Tha all a lie— was alla he is the man you know @s Biack Garcia! ‘‘ Where is this retreat? Mind what I told you about lying!” R It’s in the—the Lopo hills—any one can— ah!’ The wounded man ended with a hollow, gasp- ing groan of agony, and rolling over upon his face, vomited forth great gouts of blood. Then, | a convulsive shudder, a spasmodic action of the | muscles. He was dead. But he had told enough. Beyond all reason- able doubt Carmela had been carried off by the robber chief to his mountain retreat. There could be no other solution. ** Don’t take it so hard, old man,” said Mus- tang Sam to Don Munez, who seemed utterly broken down by this new blow. ‘ We'll get your child back again, or go under in the at- tempt, won’t we pard?’ ‘“Yes—though the trail leads to—and back ag’in—I sw’ar it!” gritted Hurricane Bill. “Now, then—at once—we are losing time here—quick! to horse!” cried Don Munez, spring- ing up. “You must let us run this machine, old man,” coolly returned Mustang. ‘‘ Aman never made any thing yet by going off at half-cock. Both men and horses need rest—and then there’s your wounded and your women. They must be taken care of. Pick out such men as you know you can depend upon, in a tight pinch. The rest can take the hurt and the women back to some place of safety. Then, after we take a bite, and give the horses a little and water, we can take up the trail, even if itis dark. You know where the oe hills are? Good! We can strike the trail there instead of following it all the way. Besides, the night will be dark—we’d have to wait until morning. So you see there'll be no time lost, after all.” *You’re right—though ’tis hard to remain idle even for a moment, when we know my poor child is in such cruel hands,” sighed the old man. “The rascal will not be apt to bother her until he gets safe to his den; and be sure we'll not be ba } ehind him. Indeed, we may overtake the ief. Considerably cheered up, Don Munez and his son Luis set to work selecting the men who were to accompany them on the robber-chase. It was an easy matter to make up the desired number. Nearly every one of the Mexicans had been, in a ter or less degree, sufferers from the band of Black Garcia, and all were eager to strike a return blow, when led by such men as the two scouts, whom they believed invincible, after their performance of that day. The re- mainder were dispatched with the women and wounded to Don Munez’s rancho, as being the nearest point of safety. The two scouts sat aside from the remainder, agg} Sewage some of the fragments left from the “banquet” that had been spread for the at noon. This dispatched, knowing that ornado and Buck-skin were rapidl filling their hides, the plainsmen filled the Pipes, pro themselves true lovers of the ‘‘ divine weed” by exhaling the soothing, fragrant vapor h their nostrils. “Mustang, old ,” suddenly observed Hur- ricane Bill, with a sidelong glance at his com- rade, ‘It’s hard lines on me, your freezin’ to this little one—though I’m boun’ to say you’ve struck it rich. She’s one o’ them kind ye read about, she is! But then, it knocks me endways. You go git spliced—then what? She cain’t traipse the plains wi’ us—nur she ain’t the kind 0’ vig rah most any feller’d keer to leave ahind You'll settle down—that’s what's the matter. Then whar’s my pard? Durned ef I ain’t up a stump!” ‘You want me to give you a bit 0’ advice?” ‘* Well, mebbe ’twouldn’t do no harm,” hesi- tated Hurricane, “It’s quick told. You jest hitch onto a gal an’ come ‘long side o’ us. We kin start even, | ) and then see which one ‘ll be gran’daddy fust.” “*Tt’s easy fer you to talk, pard—yow’ve got the dead open an’ shet on it—you’re stuck wi’ the gal, an’ she’s dead gone on you. But, honest TInjun, now—how does it feel to ke that a-way, Mustang?—you know what | mean,” ad- ded Hurricane, coaxingly. “Well, pard, you kin ax the hardest ques- tions o’ any buman critter I know. How does it feel? Look hyar. S’posin’ you was a b’ar, wi’ the tastes an’ feelin’s 0’ a b’ar. You come along an’ you find a gre’t big holler bee-tree. You climb up it, an’ t’ar off the bark and rot- ten wood ontel you can crawl inside. Thar you find the honey, all cl’ar an’ pure, as ef it’d bin strained. You pitch in—the honey’s mighty sweet—so’s love. Then your feet slip an’ you slide kersmack into the tree-trunk 0’ honey. It’s so thick you don’t sink at once. It’s sa sweet you can’t leave off eatin’ it, though, al] the time you're afeard o’ bein’ sucked in an’ did fer. ‘You ain’t afeard o’ gettin’ sucked in?” ** Not much—I was jist statin’ the rule,” laughed Mustang. “Then if a feller finds a gal who kin turn him cold or hot all over in less’n a wink, jest by lookin’ at him—ef he feels jest ’s though he’d like to lay down on the ground an’ jet her use his karkidge fer a doormat; ef he feels jest like he’d be satisfied to sit still an’ look at her ontel the sun turned to a snowball—ef he feels like a powder kag stirred up wi’ a red-hot poker whenever he sees any other he-critter a-lookin’ at her; ef a feller hes all these s ymptoms, to oncet, then—what think? Is he in love?’ “You bet—hit hard, too!” promptly replied . Mustang Sam. ‘**T knowed it! Pard, I’m corraled—I’ve got my gruel this time, sure!’? solemnly uttered Hurricane Bill, ; “You mean it, Billy? Then gi’ us your paw —I glory in your spunk—I do so/ We're in the same box, a’ter all!” Hurricane Bill sheepishly clasped the extend- ed member. He looked like a man attending his own funeral. ** Yes—but it's a crooked trail, a’ter all. Meb- be she couldn’t see it in my light—I reckon she’d laugh.at me, ef she knowed what a softy I be. ’Tain’t likely a fine piece like her ’d take a shine to.a rough varmint like me—I ain’t cut out fer a lady’s man—” Cheese it, pard—a honest man’s a man, an’ “Sects hafe a dozen rolled into one. But who is e Rother one—little one’s sister—I thought you knowed.” “Hurray! three to one—ef little one, you an’ me cain’t corral her, then we’re less a’count then Pll ever b’lieve. Jest consider it settled, Bill boy—we'll run that race yit—shore! Well soon straighten the crooks out o’ the trail. We'll git her back f “6 “TU do it or bu’st somethin’!” gritted Hurri- cane Bill. And thus for a couple of hours or more the border brothers conversed together, until Hu~ ricane Bill felt nearly as hopeful and lighy hearted as Mustang Sam. The sun had been hidden from sight forymore than an hour when word was | to sacd.c up and prepare for the r the animals having eaten and drank their The heaven was clear, the stars shining brightly, givirg light sufficient for the purpose of thepariv, They did not intend following the trail. 1/ the werds of the dying robber could be depenc’d tpen, Black Garcia would be found nesr the Lepo hills. By pressing on, they miph! > °ch there before him, when the rest would bec +, CHAPTER VI. THe “VIL LAND,” Tue Mexicans are nothing if: | ruperstit tious. Though Hurricane Pill and | comrade had long been aware of this fact, .. was dis- agreeably presented to them before 6 night We Gees When setting out from the « rral, the See tes pees ores tee cerning the m of the niliz, the tance and probable time it would: < ccupy in making eee ina there seemed eit Wie the rlouma very difiic it, thon? Ves the 73) ificul Yes, it was diffeult— “The ‘ Evil Land,’ oh?’ Mustang Bam. ‘“VWhat meskes it s much worse than the rest of the country” — eet ee
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The answer came promptly, closely resem- bling a skirmish-line firing at will, each shot clenching the one preceding it, the whole form- ing a wild melange of the weird, ridiculous, tragic and fantastic that one finds nowhere to greater perfection than in Mexico. Marvel- ous legends were narrated of still more marvel- ous adventures and escapes; and while speak- ing, the narrator’s voice grew more subdued, his sallow cheek pale, his great black eyes fill with a superstitious light as he glanced half- fearfully over his shoulders, like one who sees other shadows than those of night alone. Many a stout man had entered the ‘ Evil Land,” either through ignorance or through foolhardiness. A few had emerged from it; but how? As miserable, idiotic wretches to whom death would be a blessed boon. The ruler of the Evil Land had touched their brain: with his searing finger—had breathed his baleful breath upon them, shriveling their muscles, drying their brains, distorting their limbs, making old, decrepit cripples out of the young, hale man whe, but a day or a week before, had been the pride of his village, the light of his mother’s soul. And of those who had never returned? Ah the answer was still easier. They had braved the spirit occupants of the Evil Land. They perished in their blindness. How? They were sacrificed. Their bones could still be seen. Some were fastened with invisible chains to the rocks—thus they had died, And their despair- ing shrieks for help only served to frighten away those travelers whose hearts were stron enough to take them along the edge of the Evi and And then, just at midnight, the scat- tered bones were reunited, each in its proper lace, and, despite all the groans and sobs of he tortured spirits, the skeleton-band was forced to wait upon their masters—upon the demons of the Evil Land, who, for one hour, held wild, unholy’ orgies and blasphemous carousals in their natural temples of rock. The true believers who are obliged to pass near this spot—this Evil Land—do so in fear and trembling, telling their beads, muttering their prayers and nervously handling their amulets and charms, to keep off the treacherous gnomes and evil spirits who hover around his Tootateps: reedily waiting and watching for an unguarded moment in which they can assail him. And then cunning and seductive lures are cast in his way, artfully chosen according to his temperament and Hines. A woman, lovely as a dream, whose eyes, lips, whose every movement and gesture speaks of love; per- chance she appeals to his chivalry—she is a per- wecuted being, one who has terrible remorseless enemies, but .whose friends have all vanished— unless he assists her, she is doomed. Others jhave been tempted with dazzling treasure— with heaps of bright, yellow gold and sparkling jewels oF untold price. But woe unto those who hesitate for even one moment. He is lost —forever lost! And so the word ran round. No sooner did ‘one voice cease than another took it up. At ‘first Hurricace Bi!l and Mustang Sam only laughed; but then they waxed impatient. As Mark Twain hath it—it was growing monoto- nous, ‘Look here,” at length cried Mustang Sam. “Don Munez, you are a man of sense, What does all this mean? Are you fellows trying to ‘trighten us with these cock-and-bull stories, or is it just a way they have of cheering them- welves? What are they driving at anyway!” “Senor Musteno,” gravely replied the Don. “¢We are on the borders of the Mal Pats. You thave heard what has been spoken. Whether it is a& true, I know not; but that a portion of it is, I can testify. To be foolhardy does not become a truly brave man. We have mortal enemies to face, who are strong enough to fill our hands with work. Then why add Pare: 4 ~y What can our arms of flesh avail Is and charms of evil spirits? Nothing. let us turn aside whil ere is yet time. When we are once fairly in the Evil Land, it will be beyond our power. We must then do as they command, And then who will rescue amy child, my poor Carmela, from the power of ‘ cowardly wretch?” “They’re all tossed wi’ the same stick!” muttered Hurricane Bill, in a tone of ineffable “Wait a bit,” coolly said Mustang Sam, as Don Munez drew rein. ‘‘ You sa omy Piel hills ‘ig over yonder—an’ this is the Land that atween us and it?” ‘Yes—for twenty miles or more,” was the | Soy au wast to go around, so’s not to deesturb Hurricane Bill. these spooks. Now how far is it? How long will it take us to go round?” ‘““We have good horses—we can reach the Lopo hills by to-morrow night,” slowly replied Don Munez. “And you advise this—while your child is in the power of a black-hearted devil like this Garcia!” “T speak for m haughtily return know no fear—” “Cut it short, Mustang,” impatiently mut- tered Hurricane. “Twill, pard. Now look here, Don Munez. We—Bill and I—started out to rescue your daughter. If we hope do it—in time—we can’t take a trip around the world, just because some one else takes a notion to tell fishy yarns about a certain bit of ground over which the trail leads. Our only show is to get there as soon or before this Garcia does. If he thinks the same as your men—and being a Mexican, it’s likel he does—then he’ll take the long way home. If he does, we can cut him off—if we take the short trail; not unless. If he don’t, our only chance—a slim one it is!—is to press him so hard that he won’t have time to put any devil’s play into execution. There you have it, short and sweet. You and he men can do as you please. As for Bill and I, we are going straight ahead, Evil Land or not. If your fears are stronger than your love for your child, you'll turn back; if not, you'll follow us,” coolly ad- ded Mustang Sam. ‘Senor Musteno, because you rendered my daughter a service, that gives you no right to insult me,” haughtily replied the Mexican. Then adding, in a more even tone: ‘‘ Myson Luis and I will follow wherever you choose to lead. I was speaking for our friends, not for myself. I have been a soldier too long to greatly fear spirits, either good or bad.” “You hear, comrades,” ares said Mustang, turning to the Mexicans, ‘‘ We have decided to go on. Let those who are men follow—let the cowards remain behind. You need fear no evil spirits while with us. Both my friend and rarhel? are what the Indians call big medicine, Twill be a powerful spirit that we cannot quell.” ‘By a lead pill through a steel tube!” mut- tered Hurricane. Mustang Sam said no more, but rode on; af- ter a moment’s hesitation the Mexicans over- came their superstition enough to follow after. But their pale faces, their trembling limbs and the nervous, fearful glances they cast around them, told at what an exertion of will. The “Evil Land!” Truly the name was a propriate. A wilder, more gloomy and desola‘ spot could scarce be found even in that land of extremes and startling contrasts. Under the broadest glare of the noonday sun this region had a dismal, lonely, repellent look, that, be- neath the faint, uncertain light of the twinkling stars was increased tenfold. The tract was nearly thirty miles in width. What had originally been a valley, lying be- tween two ridges or sierras, was now almost filled up to a level with the sierras, having been, at no very distant era, the scene of a volcanic convulsion. Near the center of this tract was the crater, considerably more than a thousand feet from to edge, and nearly one-third that in depth at the center. The cracked and seamed lava around had given growth to a few stunted oak and mezquite trees. Prickly pear and weirdly shaped cacti abounded on every hand. ere and there were scattered huge er of as ts — strange, even startling pes. © wonder the superstitious Mexicans frequently started and muttered a prayer, as the nigh dows played around these monstrosities of nature, for at times they seemed just about to leap forward and seize upon the daring mortals who had ventured into their sacred domains. And it was only the cool, undaunted demeanor of the two scouts that prevented them from turning to seek safety in flight. _ The of the crater was reached with con- siderable difficulty ; and then, pausing to breathe their animals, the men glanced downward, all curious, some awed. The seamed and cracked sides of the vast basin were thickly covered with a stunted wth of dwarf meaquite and cocoa trees. ‘ar below could be seen a small lake or pond, its inky surface reflecting the stars above. The shrill of frogs were mingled with the hum and buzz of many insects. ie. 3 de mi! what is that?’ suddenly gasped comrades, senor,” a little the Don. ‘For myself I one of the Mexi downward. was pod along the side of «niga iaaege the basin, rapidly approaching the party, with. - out even so much as a rustle as it passed through the shrubbery. Then it paused and a low, wail- ing cry arose upon the night air—a cry that seem mournful and plaintive, yet with a , cadence threatening, fear-inspiring. The Mexicans, giving free vent to their super- stition, fell to praying and calling upon the | saints to preserve them from the evil spirits; but not so the two plainsmen. They had heard ! similar sounds before, and, with native reckless- ness, they laughed loudly at the terror of their companions. ‘“Skeered at a chougar!” laughed Mustang am. “Stiddy, old boy—stiddy, Buck-skin!” mut- tered Hurricane Bill, as he flung forward his rifle muzzle. } The beast was crouching for its leap. But ; the scout’s hand and eye were too quick, des. | pite the gloom that quite hid the double sights. At the sharp, peculiar report, the air was rent by a furious scream, and the cougar shot ; through the air, falling in a heap bereath the . horse’s feet, tearing and biting the ground in its ce i but beyond power of doing arm Several of the terrified Mexicans were flung to, the ground by their alarmed animals, where they’ cowered, stil) muttering their prayers. Hurricane Bill snorted with disgust: “The or’nariest set o’ cowards I ever see’d!” ‘* You won’t say that, senor, when these men are confronted with Black ’Garcia’s gang,” shortly replied Don Munez. ‘“Hope not. Ef I hev cause—ef they kerry on then, like they do now, devil grill me alive ' ef I don’t waste a load o’ lead on evy’ry pesky ~: varmint o’ them—so ther!” gritted the irate scout. A few words from Don Munez partiall assured the Mexicans that the danger was past, - but not even his directions, seasoned aS they were with sundry hot oaths, could induce them to separate in pursuit of their mustangs, which had galloped away, alarmed by the well-known scream of the cougar. And the scouts were forced to secure the animals themselves, which they finally effected, with some little difficulty. The adventure had not served to strengthen their confidence in their allies. ‘We'd better light out an’ let these or’nary , imps slide—they’]1 do more damidge than good,” } uttered Hurricane Bill, disgustedly, asthe brant } left the crater behind them, ridingas rapidly as “A jack- possible under the circumstances. rabbit ’d whip out the bull kit!” Pr ‘‘They kin stop a bullet as well as a white man, pard,” was the quiet reply. ‘“ But they'll | do better when they git face to face with t own kind, They made a pretty fa’r show wi’ the red-skins, when they once got started.” Thus the long night wore away. Itwas slow, difficult traveling, but the party did not care to - halt in such an uninviting spot, where there . was no water for themselves or animals, and ; kept steadily on. The journey consumed more © time than they had expected, Lomevee and the sun was two hours high before the fairly passed the boundary of the Evil Land. Then they halted beside a small, sparkling arroyo, and kindling a fire, hastily cooked some jerked ; meat, while the horses greedily cropped the rich grass. ' Hurricane Bill could not rest contented, and scaled one of the highest points around, taking careful scrutiny of the surrounding country. - For some time he made no motion of discovery; . but then, swinging his hat above his head, he { came pin own the bill, calling aloud for ' them to saddle up ii a hurry. “They're over thar—four on °*em—ridin’ along like they wasn’t in a naw Quick— | mebbe we kin overtake ’em before they hole, ef ; we're lively,” he spluttered, greatly excited, as | he flung the saddle acrogs old Buck-skin. Five minutes they wore crossing the ridge. And a low, glad broke from the lips of } nearly all, as they distinguished the slow © moving dots. ig with deadly eagerness they pressed for war ——_——_ CHAPTER VIL BLACK GARCIA URMASKS, From the first pg erga Hurricane Bill and Mustang Sam, that day had but a pleasant one for Cavello, or rather Black Garcia, the mountain outlaw. And he had anticipated so mueh from it, that the a was doubly d inting. Good looking, not positively me, when his evil paewioms lay éormenns, well-form- Kine ee
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* won the maiden’s good graces. spurred his horse to the leap. cpaseon aaint!—and whom next we. meet, the bles will bm turned.” Until long after sunset the outlaw rode ox And, though | : ; | from their ruthless grasp. “Tt savea trouble and mayhap some hard feel- | » ings. .1.don't feel in the humor for soothing —he dare not. Like all of his countrymen, superstition held a firm place in his mind; when- ever he glanced toward the region of evil repute, he muttered a prayer or called upon his patron saint. Nor were his menany bolder. To judge from their muttered words, the trio were saints —not an oath passed their lips; prayers took their place. At length the party drew rein beside a small spring, where there was grass sufficient for their jaded animals. The men lighted their husk cigaros. Food they had none. Carmela still seemed unconscious of her perilous situation. She seemed like one dazed, stunned, only half alive. The terror, the sight of her friends fall- ing beneath the hatchets and knives of the terri- ble Apaches, the near approach of death to her- | self had numbed the faculties of her mind. She lay down upon the blanket that Black Garcia spread for her, and in a few moments more was soundly sleeping. It was just what she needed. When she awoke, it would be with a clear and unclouded brain. ‘ Black Garcia did not sleep. He was too bus thinking over the events of the past day. His thoughts were bitter enough. He could not for- get how signally he had been defeated, how deeply his honor—such was his thought—had been outraged by the insolent Americans. And, too, though he did not repent his action in ab- ducting Carmela, he knew that it would make trouble for him. Don Munez was the most in- fluential man for scores of miles around, looked up to and honored by all his neighbors. He was brave, too, and energetic. He would not rest quietly under such a blow. He would soon be upon the outlaw’s heels. While he lived, there would be no safety for Black Garcia. : Wrought up by these reflections, the bandit aroused his men and had the animals prepared for the road. Then he touched Carmela, who aroused with a little cry of alarm. ; “You have nothing to fear—you are with friends, lady. I regret that your repose should be disturbed, but I fear there are enemies upon our trail, and we must seek safety in flight,” quietly spoke the Mexican. ‘“‘ My father—Luis—where are they?” faltered Carmela, ‘*Do you not remember? Think—try and re- call what has happened,” softly breathed the outlaw, in a tone of seeming sympathy. “The Indians—I remember—I remember now!” gasped Carmela, in a strained voice. “But tell me—no—it can not be!” * What can not be?” “That they are—no, they are not dead—you are trying to deceive me!” cried Carmela, shrink- ing back, “You wrong me, lady—but you will do me justice when you are calmer. ou will see then that I am your true friend—your only friend now,” quietly added Black Garcia, ‘‘ But come —there is, danger in remaining here. The Apaches are close i es our trail. We must ride hard if we would escape capture—and you can guess what that would be to you,” Carmela no longer resisted. e words of the man who called himself her friend, hinted that her father, brother and sister had been killed. At that moment she could think of nothing else. And she offered no resistance when Black Garcia lifted her before him and rode oft through the night. Had he been content to let well enough alone it is possible that Carmela might have believ: all, and he would have had no trouble with her until his retreat was gained. But Black Garcia really loved her—as truly as a brute like him could love—with a blind, unreasoning passion; and he wished to remove the memory of his disgrace, if possible. And so he told her of the marvelous deeds he had performed, of the many Apaches who had fallen beneath his prowess as he charged them single-handed to rescue her But he overaid the matter. She began to recollect some of the | past events, and then, like a revelation of light, Those cursed heretics—may Satan | the truth flashed upon her. . ; ‘You are speaking falsely—you did not save me—twas he—the noble American—he saved my Jife—not youl!” suddenly exclaimed Carme- la, raising her head. "4 ' on Black Garcia wag taken all aback. He at- ted to stammer a denial, but she quickly me away onhorseback. And I believe that you | hatred to | all would not be y spoke falsely when you made me think that my friends were all murdered!” “These are hard words,” begun the mountain outlaw. ‘* But true—I feel that they are true!” “Well, supposing they are true—what then?” angrily. ‘You are here in my pewer—I can do whatever I choose with you. If you are wise, you will not provoke me too far.” There was something in the man’s tone that filled Carmela with a vague, sickening fear. She shrunk from him, and had it not been for his tightening grasp, she would have leaped to the ground. ‘Let me go—you frighten me!” she gasped, \. breathlessly. ‘*So—you change your tune very suddenly,” laughed Black Garcia. ‘‘ And yet I would be our best friend, if you would: only permit. en call me cruel and heartless, but you shall never have cause to do so, if you do not treat me cruelly. You shall be as rich and honored as any queen—you shall want for nothing that love or gold can give you—” ‘* What do you mean?” faltered Carmela. “Well, I don’t know as there is any use in wearing the mask any longer. You must soon find out the truth, anyhow. To you I have been Don Blas Cavello—in the future you must know me as Black Garcia.” A cry of terror broke from the maiden’s lips, and she sought to free herself. But in vain, Gar- cia held her firmly. “Bah! why do you act likea child? It can do you no good, and may work us both harm, for this is not the safest of trails. A single slip here would be death, and though I loved life be- fore, I have double cause for loving it now.” Carmela did not cease her struggles, until oor Garcia, his temper fully aroused, angrily said: “You must act more sensibly, or, in self-de- fense, I shall have to bind you, hand and foot. I didn’t want to treat you harshly, for I love you dearly, but I «will, unless you are quiet. You have sense enough to see that it can dono good, Then why act so?, You are in my pow- er—nothing can take you from me. Your hap- piness or misery rests with yourself. If you are sensible, all will be well. Iwill make yeu a good and faithful husband. If you are cbsti-- nate and gelf-willed, then 1 must tame you. But this you must understand. You are to be- come my wife—you cannot avoid that. Itis our fate. If you insist, I will give you time 0 decide—a week or even two weeks. During that period, you will be treated with every pes- sible respect—your every wish gratified. a is all, except giving you your freedom. Time for that after the honeymoon.” 5 “T will die first!” proudly exclaimed the maiden, 5 “T have heard others say the same--yet they lived long afturward; yes, and were happy and contented, too, So will it Le with you.” You may not love me now—you may even hate me: it would be only natural that yoy should, after my plain speech. But I will make you love me. You are so dear to my heart that you cannot help it. Aman can make *any woman love: him, provided he loves her truly. But there— have said enough for once. I will give youa chance to think it. ever. Only remember. If you are not quiet, until we reach your future home, for your sake 1 must bind you. Please do not force me to be So rude.” Carmela made no ren She knew that it was worse than useless, She wes in his power, and to attempt resistance prematurely, would he folly. So she rode on quietly enough, cutward- ly iat oh! what a tumult was within! ence, save for the sound of their horses’ hoofs coming in sharp contact with the rocks that thickly beatrewed the way, thé little cav- alcade moved on through the nicht, threugh the deep gloom of the day-god, through the somber giay light that gradually grew less heavy, changing to a rolden hue, until the crests of the rveged hills eyond were bathed in the first rays. of the news born day’s sun. | ea Black Garcia was not entirely at his ease, There was something in the expression of the le face that rested in the hellow of his arm which he did not like. He began to Leliéve that as plain sailing .as he hed at first thought. This was the face of an. obstinate woman—of one who would not be casily driven against her will. But then he reflected: ‘ ‘Beh! what matter? A short. tinié more and . we will be safe with my brave men—and once { , | there, not a thousand enemies could rob me of only her will to Ledeen 3 : x a aeen her. There will be conquer—ans! surely Iam man eno ey that, betokened the near appreach -_
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bale “happiness. Ny Vr Hurricane Bill. =e % meee sesemere 5" Aw for that! In one week she will beeome recon- ciled; in two weeks contented—and in a month rom now she will adore me and believe mea very god!” And in this manner the outlaw reassured him- self, while pressing steadily on toward his re- treat. Whysuch haste? He knew that no man could follow his trail through the night; and even if they could, ’twould be impossible for them to have made better time than he had since leaving the scene of the interrupted feast. Yet he glanced often toward the Evil Land, as though expecting something disagreeable. Yet he believed his identity was unknown to the Mexicans. He had tolda cunning story and had worn the mask adroitly. There was nothing to connect him with the notorious Black Garcia in their minds. But supposing they should have suspected the truth, they were ignorant of his retreat. : Despite this belief, Black Garcia cast many an uneasy glance toward the Mal Pais. He was looking for enemies. Not for Don Munez and his neighbors. They were his coantrymen, and, like himself, devoutly believed in the mys- teries of the haunted place, They would never dare attempt_to cross it—particularly during the night. But those cursed heretics — the Americans—they had not religion enough to be- lieve in these things. Besides, they’ were in league with the devil—at least they bore charms provided by him, else how came they to stand against stout men of the true faith, only yester- It was for Hurricane Bill and Mustang Sam that Black Garcia was looking. And at length he was rewarded—most disagreeably. lie in wait for vegies distemes further, the . Black Garcia dismounted. As er feet touck d the ground, Carmela would ~ falloa, only for the entlaw’s | “You It is barely possible that some: of. her limbs, With a short laugh, he lifted her and strode forward, pressing through a dense: clump of bushes that apparently grew close to» the face of a high cliff. All was darkness, the: most intense, as the leafy screen closed behind them, but the bandit strode on with the firm step of one who thoroughly knew the ground. They were within a cavern of some sort; as Car- mela knew from the peculiar echo that came from the bandit’s spurred boots. Black Garcia stood still, uttering a sharp, pro- longed whistle. In a few moments a dim, star- like point of light appeared before them, and advancing slowly, the outlaw met the bearer of the torch, an old woman. She held the torch downward, and revealed a narrow plank that: evidently crossed some abyss. Black Garcia. crossed with a steady foot, though the elastic bridge swayed beneath the weight, and Carme- la grew dizzy as she glanced down into the: blackness. The depth she could only surmise. Ne mortal vision could reach the bottom by that faint light. The old woman led on in obedience*to a few muttered words, and then paused, holding the light above her head. They stood within a small apartment that seemed cut out of the solid roek by the hand of man. It was fitted up in a style fairly luxurious, considering the circum- stances. carpet was upon the stone fioor. low pallet was in one corner, covered with white linen and embroidered blankets. Various’ arti- cles of clothing hung along the wall, together with a guitar and mandolin. All this was re- vealed as the old woman touched the torch to a. brightly polished silver lamp that was suspend- ed from the ceiling. ‘ As Black Garcia deposited Carmela upon the pallet, he castan approving giance around, and then turned with evident satisfaction to note the manner in which his eaptive regarded her new quarters. But Carmea said nothing. She lay motionless upon the pallet, more like a dy- ing person than aught else. And as he noted her pallid, baggard features, the heart of Black Garcia smote him painfully. But ‘twas only for a niorrent. He turned and gave a few hur- ried directions to the old woman, bidding her treat the lady as her future mistress, and then, after a lingering glance at the pale features of Carmela, he retraced his steps to help his men — defend the pass. Only peusing to renew his instructions to the six men who guarded the stone bridge, Black Garcia strode on, and making use of some rude steps hacked in the rock, mounted to the first ledge, where he found that Oroche, his lieuten- ant, had faithfully foliowed his directions. And then they waited for the coming: of their in- tended victims, "a ; A cry of exultation broke from the pursuers: as they first caught. sight of the three horses and their burdens. . Though at a considerable distance, they could. still see that:cne animal bore a double load, end the light drapery that could ony be worn by.a woman, was proof posi- tive that the object of their long, arduous ride wes at length fairly before them. ~ A. brief dash —00 they all believed—would suffice, . Mustang Sam, b way; close behind him came. Hurricane Bill upon old Buck-skin, who proved himself nearly as good a rock-climbér as the black. stallion. And as they rapidly neared the fugitives, the scouts looked to their weapons. . Tornado paused abruptly; with a peculiar snort, He stcod upon the very brink of a canon hutidreds of feet in depth, while the. further side was nearly forty feet from where the black stallion stood. And then the fugitivesvanished from sight. The pursuers interchanged ‘glan- ces, The Fates seemed working against them. While they were endeavoring. to surmount the barrier, the outlaw might escape them, after ell: The hard rocks retained scant traces of even a horse’s passage. Black Garcia doubtless. knew this region thoroughly. If he was too far away from his stronghold, he could easily hide in some of the thousand and ove snug coverts — around. And knowing this, a groan of bitter a and angnieh broke fromthe lips of Don pneg, fo, Sa “The devil couldn't leap it!” muttered Hur- . a ot bya % ied Mustang Sem, prom ’ AUS! SS Ree d Lag cee + Bat may'be ther places er “‘ Dut he'll git ef while we're lookin’ fer it.” =“ Net much! Here—let the best lasso threwer sbama fort,” be added, addressing the Mexicans. im Spami “Knet one riata to The rest ef you separate and ride up i ¥v a" ay) & supporting arm. The long ride had benumbed- ; virtue of Tornado, led the . ce bas
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al 12 Beadle’s alf-Dime Library. the edge of the canon, looking for a place where we can cross or leap our horses over. Work lively—and when you find it, fire a single shot. That will tell the other party where to go.” He was obeyed without a word. Then Mus- tang Sam turned to the Mexican who had re- mained with him. “Can you rope yonder big bowlder?’ he , said, indicating a rock that lay on the other side of the canon, several yards from the edge of the abyss. ‘* Si, senor,” was the prompt reply, as the Mexican carefully gathered up the double lariat, and then made the cast. He did not belie his skill. The noose settled fairly over the bowlder, and a dextrous twitch secured it firmly. Then he spurred back his mustang until the taut rope nearly flung them both to the ground, “That will do,” said Mustang Sam, dismount- ing. ‘‘Youcan go now. Take my horse and follow one of the parties, tell them that I’ve ne to follow the woman-thief, and that I will ya plain trail for them. Let them follow it until they overtake me, or hear from me, in some way. The Mexican rode rapidly away, leading the anwilling Tornado, vaso did not relish this be- ing taken from his beloved master. Mustang Sam passed the stout riata around a huge bowl- der and knotted it firmly. Then, with the aid of a stout stick, he twisted up the slack until the lasso was as straight and stiff as a bar of iron. Grasping the rope, the scout boldly swung over the chasm, crossing, hand over hand with the speed and ease of a professional gymnast. In ten seconds he was standing on the further side of the canon. Reaching the point where Black Garcia had disappeared from sight, Mustang Sam rapidly picked up the trail, at the same time leaving plain indications for his comrades, in the crush- ed and broken twigs of the bushes, or by kick- ing up a portion of the sandy soil that lay in scattered patches between the rocks. But he was not forced to dothislong. The trail entered the narrow pass, and after marking the entrance plainly, Mustang Sam glided on rapidly, not more than ten minutes in the rear of Black Garcia. The scout abruptly paused and then sunk down behind a ragged bowlder. The enemy wasinview. Hoe Saud distinguish a number of human beings scaling the almost ndicular walls of the pass, They were Black Garcia’s men, going into ambush. Not dreaming of any such plan as the scout had put into operation, they believed themselves safe from observation for at least another half-hour, and so paid little attention to what was going on in the pass. **So—he’s holed at last!” muttered midi “Maans fight, tuo. A pesky mean place—but thar’s open ground beyond. A quick dash ’ll do it. Once we git thar, we’ll hev them in a trap. ‘They cain’t get down onless we let ’em, which I don’t reckon we will—fasier’n we kin pick ’em off ’th our six-shooters.” Satisfied at length that he had Jearned all he could without danger of discovery, the plains- man adroitly retreated, keeping well covered until out of sitht of the ambushed outlaws. While thus engaged he heard the report of a wan i of his dearly beloved sorf lying a corpse at hie feet, added to the taunts of his captor were too much. With a curse, Garcia set a use about restoring him. He had for Don Munez. : 4 Lok tnt | een 5 7) goals i" wa aS lls as hes ie tek gg a Dee a CHAPTER IX. STEALING A MARGH. How did Hurricane Bill and Mustang Sam manage to escape from the trap that proved so fatal to their comrades? Partly because of the outlaws’ inferior firearms and still worse marks- manship, but mainly owing to the speed and surefootedness of Tornado and Buck-skin. Not a bullet had touched them—indeed, only two of the party had been killed by the outlaws’ vol- ley, the remainder having fallen beneath the resistless bowlders—and their horses carried the two scouts beyond reach of the rocky avalanche. “Tt’s all up, thar!” exclaimed Mustang S with a rapid backward glance, as they clear the mouth of the pass. A sharp report sounded in his ear, and turnin quickly, he saw that their road was blockaded , by half a dozen Mexicans, who stocd upon a} narrow trail that passed between two deep pits. | There was no other way to pass, except over this ‘ rock-bridge. To retreat would be death. And knowing this, Hurricane Bill had sent a leaden missile of death just beneath the stiff brim of the head of the Mexican’s sombrero. This it was that had so startled Mustang Sam. *“Whoo-oop! Sock it to’em!” he yelled, reck- lessly, as his repeaters added their voices to those of Hurricane. The bridge-guard was taken completely by surprise, and, though they managed to dis. charge their clumsy escopettes and unwieldy horse-pistols, ‘twas but a waste of powder, for not one among the six thought of taking aim. On the other side, the scouts were not men who made a practice of wasting ammunition; they shot to kill. And by the time the forty yards of ground was passed, there were only two of the outlaws upon the bridge unharmed, Witha wild yell, Hurricane Bill spurred his big Buck-skin forward. The two outlaws, ter- ror-stricken, utterly bewildered, clumsily en- deavored to wheel their animals to seek safety in flight, but only succeeded in counteracting each other’s efforts, their animals colliding. At this moment Hurricane Bill came up, and touching Buck-skin with the spur as he liited him with the reins, hurled his big States Lerse fairly upon the small mustangs bestrode Ly the bandits. It was like a wedge entering a log of straight pine. The single stroke was sufficient to drive the wedge clear through, splitting the log asunder, And the reckless plainsmen laughed as they saw the ill-fated bandits go over the edge of the rock-bridge to meet their death upon the jagged rocks below. “Hurray fer our side!” screamed Mustang, Sam, as he too dashed across the bridge. ‘‘ But} listen—the varmints is comin’ lickety-split!’ They’re too hefty fer us, pard, out in this open ground. Reckon we'd better light out.” ‘But the gal—” hesitated Hurricane Fill, though he knew that Mustang was in the right; they could not hope to gain anything by fight- ing the whole of Black Garcia’s Land. ‘She must be some’ar ahead o’ us. Mebbe we kin pick her up as we ride along, an’ then we kin take to the hills. But s’posin’ we don’t see her now—how’ll it help her fer us to ‘ rubbed out? We must cache ontel night. Then we kin play Injun on the varmints. See?” Hurricane Bill did see, and knew that his partner was in the righ. Mustang Sem, keep- ing a tight rein on Tornado, ready to halt or wheel instantly, should such need arise, led the way at a rapid pace across the open gre ee following a well-beaten trail that wourd arcun an abrupt spur. This brought th.m into view of a large Tard of mustangs, feeding in a cincu- lar valley, well covered with rich grass, owing to the springs that bubbled from bencath the gray rocks. ‘Stampede ’em!” yelled Mustang Sam. “It ll blind our trail an’ give ’ém somethin’ else to do besides follerin’ us. Hurricane Bill promptly followed the exam- le set him, and the two scouts charged 524 e cay , yelling, hooting, screeching like drunken savages, emptying their revolvers into the crowded mass of snorting, terrified animals, Their success was complete. The frightened mustangs broke and away at top speed. Nothing short of death could kave checked them ust then. And still ridimg hard upon their eels, the plainsmen thundered across the valley and entered a rocky knowing that it must be a thoroughfare the mustangs, who must be well acquainted with the ley of the ground, would have chosen some other passage. The correctness ef this reasoning was soon Korag 0 the scouts sean found themselves en- ther inclosed basin, s ae ol aaa by Mek Heaky Uislig
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ee ee! oe Hurricane Bill. 13s They abruptly drew rein before entering the soft soil. Now was the time to lose their trail. A narrow stretch of shale running along the foot of the hills, afforded means for this, and dismounting, they carefully picked their way over the flinty fragments until, reaching a nar- row passage that extended almost at right-an- gles with their course, they entered and trotted briskly along the hard, rocky floor.. The sun, though now considerably past the meridian, served as their guide, and when fully satisfied tis easy told. I wish you to take your choice be- tween life and death.” ‘* Hush, Carmela! You must speak plainer, sir. Under some circumstances life would be even worse than death,” quietly responded the Mexican. : ‘‘None but a fool would say that. life. Life is Death is—well, whatsoever doubts you | may have on that subject will be solvedina | sense by making a treaty with me that they were beyond risk of discovery, unless | the outlaws should search every rod of the hills, | the borderers halted in a little niche and pre- pared to take the rest they really stood in need | of, while arranging their further plans. ? dS Black Garcia drew a long breath of positive relief when he found that there was nothing really dangerous in the faintness of Don Munez. very few hours, unless you show your good It is this: I am in love with your daughter, the fair Car- mela, Nay, hear me out then you can speak. I have loved her for some mont’. Where or how I first saw her, does not matter now. It is | enough that I left my bold band and came to Not from any sense of awakened humanity; he | had something in view in which the Don might be made use of. After that—well, as he mut- tered beneath his breath—dead men have still tongues. Hastily calling to one of his men, they bore the body across the rock-bridge and into the cavern, finally depositing the Don beside Car- mela upon the pallet. he maiden, recogniz- ing the begrimed and blood-stained features, bent over her father with a piteous wail. She believed him dead. ‘*No, lady,” hastily interposed Black Garcia. “He is alive—he has merely fainted. See—he stirs now.” The outlaw spoke the truth. With a faint sigh, the Don slowly opened his eyes. Fora moment he seemed like one petrified; then a cry of wild, delirious joy broke from his lips as he recognized the features of his child, and sought to clasp her in hisarms. But the stout thongs that held his wrists prevented, harshly recalling the peculiar circumstances under which they met. : “YT leave you here with your orgies daughter, Don Munez,” said the bandit chief. ‘“T must go look after my men. But remem- ber, if you attempt to leave this room, you will be stoppéd by the rds and then confined separate from your child.” RE e hours rolled on. The majority of the band was ranging the rock-hills, searching for the two Americans and collecting the stamped- ed animals. Black Garcia awaited their return with what patience he could summon, hoping, almost praying that his men would bring in the scalps of the two plainsmen. He could not feel at ease while they lived. They Bpoeces more than mortal men. They must be in league with the evil one himself, to perform such wonderful - feats and make such marvelous esca * your friend to save 1 ‘ pes. Time dragged slowly enough to the father and daughter, Carmela had released her par- ent’s hands, but they could do nothing more. Escape unaided was impossible, and they both believed Don Munez to the sole survivor of the attacking party nif NES Toward sunset, Black Garcia visited the cap- tives. He had been drinking freely, and showed its effects quite plainly in his flushed face and unsteady step, as well as thick, rapid utter- ance. With a mock-polite salutation, Black Garcia sat down upon the rock-floor, close beside the entrance, and ostentatiously laid his bare cu- chillo upon his lap. Then, with fingers a little less skillful than usual, he rolled up a husk ci- garette and lighting it, leaned carelessly back against the wall, leering at Carmela through the curling waves of smoke, evidently believing he was making an impression. “Don Munez,” he began, ‘I have been hay- ing quite an argument with my honest men - about you. They ask why I did not put a lead pill through your head. I said because you were a friend of mine—” , “(A friend of yours—I ?” scornfully inter- rupted Don Munez. ‘The time may come when tee will be glad to call me such—when you will beg and implore ou, Don Munez, proud as you are,” angrily retorted the bandit. ‘“‘ Best | guard your tongue. I_am not blessed with the tience of a saint. Do you know who I am? Fam a king here—my will is law. I can give you life or I can give you death, by a single word. And death, too, preceded by such tor- tures as the most ferocious Indian never even dreamed of. So, I repeat, take heed what you ” f oy What is your will with me?’ demanded Don M f * That is more like it. Be respectful, and your life will be the longer. My will! Well, your rancho with only one object in view—that of winning her, as a man of honorshould. Well, you know what caused me to adopt: another course—those accursed Americans—chosen chil- dren of the devil! Aided by the charms of their foul master, they cast shame upon my head. He with the yellow hair cast a spell over her— see, her cheek flushes even now! How could I fight against his infernal arts? In only. one way; and that way I followed. ‘**Don Munez, I told you I loved your daugh- ter. She is here, wholly in my power; [ wish to make her my wife. If I have your consent and hers, I will send for a priest. If you re- fuse—which, for your own sake, I hope you will not—you can count your remaining hours of life upon the fingers of one hand. ow you can speak—I am listening,” said Black Garcia, with drunken gravity. ‘“My daughter, do you love this man?’ The shudder of abhorrence that ran over the maiden’s frame was answer most eloquent. ‘*Good! if you had said yes, I should have felt tempted to curse you. Listen. You come of a pure-blooded, honorable race. You must not be the first to stain the name. Better death than dishonor. And as for you, Black Garcia,” added Don Munez, turning to the outlaw chief, who sat as if petrified, ‘‘ take this for your an- swer. No child of mine shall ever mate with a thief, renegade, cutthroat. As for myself—it matters little whether I die now or a year hence; by the hand of man, or the claws of a foul, cowardly coyote.” The biting, contemptuous words of the old man seemed to completely sober the bandit chief. Though his face turned a sickly gray and his hand closed nervously upon the haft of his cuchillo, he answered never a word, but turned and silently left the apartment. Though Don Munez felt assured that the words he had spoken had sealed his fate, he gave all his attention to comforting Carmela, seeking to strengthen her for the coming ordeal. He reminded her that she held life or death in her own hands, since the bandit had not deprived her of the stiletto which, like all the women of her race, she carried in her bosom. He threat- ened her with his dying curse in case she should yield to the threats or persuasions of Black Gar- cia. Meanwhile Black Garcia and his lieutenant Oroche, were settling the details of the “ orand spectacle” they were to give the bandits that night. *Twould be prime sport, this torturing their most determined and bitter enemy, Don Munez, who had often endeavored to extermi- nate their noble band. And then, leaving his captain to entertain himself with the big gourd of mezcal, Oroche strode away to arrange mat- ters for the novel festa. ore bay their anxiety, the remaining hours of that day were terribly long and trying to the captives. Anything was better than sick- ening suspense, and it was with positive relief that Don Munez heard the ype | of feet ap- proaching his prison. It was Black Garcia and two stout men. At a gesture they flung Don Munez down and bound him hand and foot then lifting him, they bore him away. Black Garcia, with a drunken leer, passed an arm around Carmela’s waist and followed. Fora moment she felt tempted to strike him with her dagger, but then all else was forgotten in anxiety to learn what fate was in store for her father. She was not kept long in mse. « assing through the leafy screen, Black Gar- cia guided her around she point of rocks. Di- rectly before therm was a small bonfire. Beside this was planted a stake. Around were scat- tered piles of ts. And to this stake, after sits | ay Sy to his drawers, the bandits were binding Don Munez. Carmela sought to shriek aloud, but conld not. She seemed stifling, and only for the su arm of Black Garcia, she must have to the ground. The bandit chief laughed loudly, as, he leaned against the point of rocks. Dom Mnunez turned his head and beheld the couple. At first glance it seemed as though Carmela was: holding the outlaw in a voluntary, loving em- brace. ‘*Carmela—remember my words! My curse rest upon you forever if you submit to that cowardly murderer !” ‘Ha! ha! old man, you are a poor, blind fool, unfit to live. ILoffered you life and freedom, but you chose death for yourself and disgrace for your daughter instead. There is no retracting —it shall be so. You shall die a death of horri- ble torture, while you can soothe your last mo- ments by reflecting that this same night your daughter becomes mine,” tauntingly cried Black Garcia. Yet he it was who was the “ poor, blind fool.” Even as he scoffed and mocked at the brave old man, the shadow of death was creeping over him. His thread of life was all spun—was even then about to snap. His minutes, his seconds of life were counte ‘* Come, darling,” he added, in a thick, maud- lin tone that he meant should be intensely lov- ing, as he turned to face Carmela. *‘ This is no place for hearts like ours, The scene that is about to take place is too tragic—let us go to our bridal chamber—ha! ha!” Carmela appeared like one stupefied. Her face was ghastly pale. Her eyes were fixed in a stony stare; her hand was cold as ice. Yet she ‘mechanically yielded to the outlaw’s arm, which still encircled her waist. And thus, in seeming affectionate embrace, the couple so strangely assorted passed around the point. of rocks and was hidden from view of those beside the bonfire. “You are wise, my queen, to yield to the in- evitable,” said Black Garcia, a little indistinet- ly, for the fiery mezcal was beginning to clog his tongue. ‘‘ You are very wise. I ama ris- ing Man—you, as my bride, will be a rising woman. I am king here—but listen. I mean to get up a pronunciamento, and then I will be dictator—” “You dowt say!” gritted a deep voice, as a black figure uprose before the bandit chief seemingly from out of the very ground. i reckon you’re goin’ down ’stead o’ up !” A sinewy hand clutched the outlaw’s throat —a keen-pointed blade was driven once—twice to the very hilt in his chest. “Look to the gal, d; don’t let her squeel. Make fer the horses, hot foot. I’m goin’ to lift this varmint’s lia’r!” A second figure glided away with Carmela im his arms, one hand over her lips. The other stooped over the fallen outlaw fora moment. When he arose, something black dangled in his hand. It was the scalp of, Black Garcia, the mountain outlaw. CHAPTER X. “EUCHERED!” THRUSTING the ghastly trophy into his sash, Mustang Sam glided after Hurricane Bill. To- gether they d the rock-bridge and entered the mouth of the pass that had been so fatal to their comrades. ut there was one lying in ambush for them now. Even those of the bandits who had been detailed as guards, were now with the rest around the old prisoner, unre- buked. Wonderfully bold and daring as they undoubtedly were, the Americans would not dare interfere with nearly two-score men. So reasoned Oroche. Black Garcia was no longer capable of acting as chief. And thanks to this: eagerness of the sentinels to witness the “‘ sport,’” the two scouts had managed to creep up wi earshot, just in time to rescue Carmela. A burst of wild laughter came from around’ the rock-spur. The sport was evidently com- mencing. Carmela gave a start, and shuddered’ convulsively. The sound restored her life and energy: } “Save him—save my father!” she ene “You first—then him,” quickly replied Hurri+ cane Bill ‘‘No—’twill be too late, then. I will not leave without him. See!” and Carmela writhed from the 1an’s arms, and uplifted her right han grasping a small but keen stiletto. ‘‘T will not leave him here to die alone. He gave up his life for mine. I will not desert him now. Let me go back—attempt to stop me, and I will drive this weapon to my heart. Quick—stand aside if you are men!” ‘* She’s talkin’ durned nonsense, but she means it, plum through. You jes’ let me do the. talkin’,” muttered pene. Sam, then adding: “Lady, you are with frien Me apine O oi is to rescue you, even as we did 4 She is alive and well—you shall join ber very
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14 ‘“‘T know you now—you are’the great, the generous Americans! Save him—save my fa- fher. You can—you will not refuse—I will ask it upon my knees!” ‘* Mustang, thar’s no use talkin’—we’ve got to do it. U'd dive down the kenyon o’ the Big Red ef she wastoax me. I’m goin’ to bring the old man out-or bu’st somethin’. the horses. you mount an’ mate tracks, fer [ll be rubbed vut, You kin tell her then what I told you vest’day---I mean ’bout corralin’ me so peert.” ‘Kinder eagy, pard—you don’t give me the ‘hake like that: reckon Pll hev a finger in the pie.” You take her to | *F T don’t meet you in ten minutes, | } ‘You will rescue him, then?’ tremblingly | usked Uarmela. ‘We'll try it, lady,” replied Mustang Sam. | crowd, and reached the stake just as Don Mu- nez sprung out of the fiery circle. “T’'m a fri’nd, old man—give us your paw an’ up yer come!” shouted Hurricane Bill. Don Munez understood and recognized the plainsman, and grasping the proffered hand, ‘he swung himself up behind Hurricane Bill, who shouted: * All right, pard—puckachee !” Buck-skin darted around the point of rocks with his double burden, and then thundering over the rock-bridge, entered the pass. Mus- tang Sam only paused for a parting blow, and then followed his comrade, overtaking him just before reaching the point where Carmela had been left. Sounding the agreed-upon signal, it was promptly answered, and the next moment Carmela was in Mustang’s arms. ‘*Whoo-oop! we euchered the varmints that time!” yelled Hurricane Bill. ‘It’s long odds, but they are only cowardly | coyotes, after all.” “Out! we’re burnin’ daylight,” muttered Surricane. ‘ They’ll rub the ole man out while we stan’ hyar palaverin’. Let’s git to work. Which is it? afoot or on hossback?’ ** Critters ‘ll be best. An’ then we kin sprad- die out so the greasers Il think we’re fifty, ef we use our lungs judgmatical. Then we’ll need the critters to kerry off the old man. ‘* Back to the horses, then. Tell her not to squeel, pard. I’d only make acussed fool o’ my- self ef 1 war to try.” Mustang Sam ‘hastily told Carmela what they intended doing, and then Hurricane Bill raised her once more in his arms. A curious thrill ran through his frame at the contact, and his nead grew light. But this was only momentary. He darted down the as a@ mountain goat. “OFF wi? your buck-skin,” Sam, as they reached the animals. mute the critters. Cut up the pieces, while I tell the lady what’s up.” uttered Mustang } pass swift and sure-footed | “ We must | Hastily but clearly the borderer told Carmela | the plan they hope for the best. point until their return. At their signal—a sharp whistle—she was to stand ready to be lifted on horseback. ““T will remember. You will find me behind this rock,” said Carmela, with wonderful calm- ness. Mustang Sam said no more. Hurricane Bill had cut up his buck-skin hunting-shirt into squares and strips, and the scouts now deftly muffied the hoofs of their animals, tying the leather firmly in place. Thus, even upon the rock,. the animals’ hoofs gave out no echo. Then, with a parting caution to Carmela, the two scouts rode forth upon their perilous, dare- devil mission. Two men braving two score. ‘Give the varmints a taste o’ your repeaters, pard. Yell like the devilona tare. But keep aeye on me. Tl cut the old man loose, and then give a whistle. Then yow must come an’ pick him up. You’re stronger ’nIbe. [ll keep the varmints back, while you’re doin’ it.” These were the only words that passed be- tween the border brothers. As they neared the point of rocks, they drew | their revolvers. dozen different tones, Then, yelling like demons, in a their pistols speaking rapidly, carrying death and dismay into the | close-crowded mass of outlaws, the scouts charg- | éd recklessly. A revolver in each hand, his teeth fixed upon the reins, Hurricane Bill hurled the big Buck- skin fairly into the midst of the astonished ban- dits. At every report, a man fell, dead or tmaortally wounded. Buck-skin, in obedience to the spurs that pricked his fianks, plunged and reared, flinging out his heels vigorously, tearing | and biting at the dusky forms around him like a mad beast. Excited, though obeying every touch of the | rein, Tornado halted beside the stake, unheeding the flames that scorched his feet. Fortunately he torch had just been applied, and the twigs were not fairly ignited. Hasta ng Sam bent in the saddle and with two powerful slashes, severed the cords that bound Don Munez to the stake. Then sounding the shrill signal agreed upon, he urged Tornado forward and plunged into the melee. It was not a fight. The bandits, for the most part without arms, a great many of them half- stupefied with liquor, seemed totally incapable of either self-defense or fight. Not a hand was raised against the Americans. Nota blow was struck save those they themselves delivered. It “a ter Bill ptly obeyed the signal. urricane promptly ry" e sign Wheeling Buck-skin, he crushed through the had decided upon, bidding her | She was to remain at this | ; | Suspense. “Right you be, Billy; *twas a néat job. But I don’t reckon we’re through wi’ the game yit. Lis’en to that !” Even as Mustang Sam spoke, a loud yell came echoing down the pass. It seemed as though the outlaws had mah cr recovered their senses —as though they now saw how sublimely they had been duped. death-trap in the pass. Yet over a dozen of their men were dead or disabled. Riding close side by side, Don Munez and Carmela clasped bands fora moment. It was like the dead returning to life. Even with that yell echoing in their ears they were happy. For the moment they forgot the death of Don Luis. ‘* Lead on to the place whar you crossed over, yard,” said Mustang Sam. ‘‘Once over the a te AE, I reckon we kin give these varmints the slip, s’posin’ they foller us.” The doubly-laden animals could make but slow progress through the rock-strewn country. The trail was winding and intricate. The riders were ignorant of the best route. They had only passed over the ground once, and then in too great haste to take particular notice, The | They had only seen two men | . ~ . | —the daredevil Americans who had escaped the Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. different places. I don’t reckon we'll hev very hard work to keep ’em back long enough to let Mustang git away safe. Likefy they'll think we're allhyar. But now lay low. Do jest asI co.” The outlaws trotted briskly up to the crogs- ~ ing. From his covert Hurricane Bill could quite plainly distinguish them. And leveling his revolver, he fired twice in rapid succession. Don Munez imitated his example. The outlaws were most effectually surprised. Nor was this lessened when Hurricane Bill, while rapidly | emptying his revolvers, shouted in a loud voice: ‘Charge, lads—charge an’ they’re ours! Work ’er up lively, boys! Whoo-oop!” With cries of terror and dismay the Mexicans broke and fled, the wild war-cry of Hurricane Bill sounding in their ears long after they had vanished from view. Then, with a pleasant laugh, the scout turned to Don Munez. ““That’s settled. Now fer to join our fri’nds. I don’t reckon we'll hev any more trouble afore day, anyhow.” “We owe you our lives—I and my ehild!” ““'Thar—don’t say no more. I wasn’t workin’ fer nothin’. I reckon you'll hey to pay me a big price fer what I’ve did, when we git through all right,” interrupted Hurricane. “Tm rich—I will give you half of all Tam worth—” “TY wasn’t speakin’ of money, old man—but thar. Let it drop fer now. Jump up ahind me. We'll hev to ride right peert to ketch up wi’ Mustang, I reckon.” ‘“‘Not much you won’t, pard,” called out a cheery voice from directly infront. ‘I heard | you burnin’ powder, an’ | wanted a hand in. bandits would have them at frightful disadvan- | tage if they should follow. “Hyar’s the place, I b’lieve,” at length ut- tered Hurricane Bill, reining in his horse close beside the canon. “‘Té’s time, too. [£ kin hear the varmints comin’ down full split, now we're still. But sure this ’s the place?” ‘*°T looks like it. Woe had to jump our crit- ters over,” returned Hurricane, peering anx- iously forward. The opposite side could hardly be distinguish- ed, owing to the gloom cast by the rocks and shrubs beyond. It was a moment of painful From behind came the unmistakable sounds of .hot pursuit; the bandits having ral- lied, were burning for revenge. ‘*Look out thar!” sharply cried Mustang Sam, as he touched Tornado with the spur. The noble brute rose into the air like a bird and then alighted safely upon the other side with his master and Carmela. There had been no danger in the leap, yet the courage display- ed by Mustang Sam was none the less on that account, “Come on, pard. Buck-skin kin step acrost,” laughed Mustang Sam. ‘“’Tain’t ten foot acrost it.” ‘* A moment later, Buck-skin alighted beside Tornado. “Mustang, you ride on wi’ her—keep as nigh as you kin to the trail we follered in comin’ hyar, so’s Pll know whar to look fer ye.. Never rou mind what you hear back hyar—you jest tend to her.” ‘What's up now, pard?’ demanded the Mad Rider. “You hear them varmints? They’re headin’ straight fer this crossin’. Ef they pass this we're goners. ‘They know the lay o’ the grounc an’ we don’t. I’m goin’ to keep ’em on t’other side fer a bit; ontel you git a fa’r start.” “Tl stay an’ help—” “No ye won’t, nuther. Pm runnin’ this out- fit, just now. You take her and puckachee.. Git—I mean business.” Though with evident reluctance, Mustang Sam turned and rode away, after first handing Don Munez one of his revolvers. It went against the grain wing A to leave his tner to meet the enemy alone, but he knew that Hurri- cane would not be cr “You're going to fight them, senor?” asked Don Munez. “ Yes—goin’ to keep ’em from crossin’, ef I kin. You kin help—jest fire at ’em whenever you ketch a chance, an’ keep jumpin’ around in | wholly in your hands. The lady hyar begged me not to leave her father, so back I comes—jest in time to be too late.” “Twas a fool trick, pard—you’d orter be a long ways from hyar by now,” reproachfully said Bill. ‘“The varmints is whipped. Now we kin take our ease. Even s’posin’ them varmints do try to foller us; a bloodhound couldn’t sca’cely keep a traii over these rocks, An’ by day we'll be tur enough ahead o’ them.” “‘Tain’t so sure. They’ve got thar Ebeneezer up powerful, an’ Il try hard togit squar’. They know the lay o’ the ground better’n we do, an’ fust thing we know mebbe we'll run kersplunt into a ambush.” ‘No danger, pard; ’cause why. a-goin’ to foller the trail we take. They’d see a devil or a spook in every rock an’ bush. They wouldn’t foller us ef we was out in plain sight. You fergit the Evil Land, Hurricane,” chuckled Mustang Sam. “ You're right, pard—as you al’aysair—I did fergit it. I reckon we’ve got the drop on ’em this time! But,” and Hurricane hesitated, “But how’ll they like it?’ ‘“My friends,” said Don Munez, ‘‘we are Take whatever course you think best, and we will be content, We passed through the Evil Land once unharmed; why should we fear to do it again?” No more was said. The party rode steadily What difference: They ain’t | forward, and long before the sun tinged the | eastern sky with gold, they were threading the mazes of the far-famed Mal Pais. CHAPTER XI. IN“THE ‘‘ EVIL LAND.” SUNRISE in the Evil Land! The golden rays streamed over a wild, weird scene, strange and fantastic as one of Dore’s conceptions, Here it was a perfect wilderness of sierra; there, a dense chaparral thickly cov- ered with mezquites and nopals, with clumps of cacti and “tiger thorn.” Here the tall rank grass brushed the sides of the fugitives’ horses. Such is the circle that surrounds the volcanic region. A sharper contrast could scarcely. be imagined. All at once this dense vegetation ceases, leav- ing, scattered far apart, bunches of cacti, a dwarf oak, or perchance two or three cocoa trees, growing out of the cracks in the lava The ground rumbles and seems to shake beneath the horses’ tread, until one can not help fancy- ing that only a thin crust separates him from some horrible subterranean abyss. The flow of molten lava can easily be traced, undulating, winding in serpentine coils, forming a gigantic mosaic. Here rises a smooth, polished cone, there an- other with miniature turrets, not unlike an ant~ hill. Some of them are broken; all are hollow, the shell vere from six to twenty inches in thickness. Peering into one, the eye can see nothing save a dense, impenetrable darkness. Drop a stone into the hole, it rebounds here and there, until the sound is lost in the distance :
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Hurricane Bill. How far does it descend? One can only con- jecture. Yet these black pits are inhabited; by the huge, bloated serpents that may occasionally be seen lazily gliding over the lava-beds. F But there are still other inhabitants of the Evil Land. From the shade of yonder dwarf oak, slinks away a gaunt gray wolf—a ‘‘lobos;” y a species that is known only in Mexico—paus- oak -q ing when at a safe distance to utter a long- » Ng drawn, lugubrious how] as if protesting against im ' ¢his invasion of his domain. A family of java- x linas leap up from their wallowing place with ey) ,Shrill snorts and eye the travelers, viciously 6 ;\champing their long, white tusks, half inclined 2 , poo attack the intruders. Here the trampling of Rhoofs starts up a covey of quail, or a couple of Me ¥ grouse; the soft, long-drawn note of the dove . was mingled with the more rapid call--of the \ w igeon. pie Such is the Evil Land and its inhabitants. , ee A native would add demons, gnomes, aphrites; a but our friends beheld none of these. The at Ee “‘witching hour” was past. co It was midforenoon when ce called a halt. Both animals and riders were , tired, sleepy and hungry. Of water they had a ¢ supply, having filled their gourds at a spring just before daylight. Of food, two and a half race of grouse hung beside Hurricane Bill’s leg. He had dropped them while riding along, with his revolver. **¥ reckon this is the best place we kin find,” observed the tall plainsman, as he paused upon the edge of the crater. ‘1b looks cool down thar. Then the critters kin git drink, such as it is. The smoke ‘ll scatter afore it rises the edge hyar.” Even Don Munez hesitated but for a moment. Though naturally anxious to reach home and safety as quickly as possible, and dreading lest the bandits should improve the time thus given them, to get before them once more, he saw that Carmela was utterly exhausted. She must rest, in order to have strength to meet the diffi- culties that might still bestrew their path. Yet it required all his courage to_ enter what the natives called the Temple of the Evil Spirits. Dismounting, Hurricane Bill gentky lifted Carmeia trom Tornado’s back and then carried her down to the side of the miniature lake. The big borderer was wonderfull tender and careful; the change became him, too. He tore off huge handfuls of leaves to form a cushioned seat, And he felt a thousand-fold repaid when Carmela’s dark eyes met his in mute thanks. Hurricane Bill was corraled. Asmall fire was kindled and the grouse were speedily roasting. ‘The horses were eagerly feeding, after.a sniff of disgust at the water. It was jetty black, though clear, at least to the eye. But a myriad frogs, efts and insects of different. kinds were swimming and darting ‘ about, until the water seemed fairly alive. me The margin was fringed with water-plants, some of.them in bloom. _ With an extraordinary dis- lay of gallantry, Hurricane set out to pluck a Bounuat for Carmela. But he soon desisted, in disgust. Though beautiful, some of them won- 4 drously delicate in form and hue, the flowers were impregnated with a sickening, fetid odor. Their food dispatched, all save Hurricane Bill a wr lay down to take a brief sleep. He was to keep Bas ard, though there was little need, for neither ndian nor bandit would’ willingly venture near the Devil’s Temple. After an hour, ho was to ime. . arouse Mustang Sam. Two hours would be , -—s«étesti enough, as they hoped to reach the rancho Sefore another day, ; } With his pipe lighted, Hurricane Bill sat lean- - Ing against a lava block, his eyes fixed upon the face of Carmela, who was buried in a deep slumber, Of what was be thinking? Well, reader, you can guess as well as J. He had con- fessed that the soft-eyed maiden had “‘ corraled’ bhim—that he was ‘‘ dead-stuck;” that is, in love. ~ ie that enough? Hurricane Bill hinge Tts curiosity. a carious neon th under cover of neh, in ose F glistening tongue playes silently just above ‘the maiden’s cheek. The fiery eyes seemed riveted upon hers, despite the closed lids) Another movement, however slight, and Carmela’s death- warrant is séaled. For this the serpent appears to watch. At this moment Hurricane Bill opened his eyes. A glow of horror filled them. He saw the threatening attitude of the snake, and knew | that Carmela was in terrible danger. Quick as thought he cocked and leveled his revolver, the silver drop covering the reptile’s head. Yet he hesitated to fire. He saw that to kill the ser- pent, the bullet must fairly graze Carmela’s temple. And he feared his nerves were ‘not steady enough. Yet hedared not wait. It was the severest trial of his life. The decision was forced upon him. He heard a faint sigh—Carmela seemed about to waken. And then he fired. The next instant he was beside Carmela, the | serpent clenched desperately in his hands, to be flung away with the same gesture. Yet there was no need. His aim had been true. The ser- vent’s head had been blown to pieces. And as Pamela. confused, bewildered, sprung up, a lock of hair fell from her temple. The bullet had severed it. Hurricane Bill caught the tress before it could touch the ground. ‘*Tt’s nothin’,” he hastily uttered as the two men sprung up. “I jist shot a snake—that’s a Bad But Carmela understood it all, as she raised one hand to her temple. The severed hair, the curious tingling where a slight red line marked the skin, the dead snake; all these told a plain tale. And asshe saw the black tress in his hand, | her eyes flashed a quick message to his. Hurricane Bill felt queer—as he might have expressed it—“ all over in spots.” Inthat glance he read a volume. It said: ‘‘ You have saved my life once more. You prize that tress, be- | cause it once belonged tome. You love me with | all your soul. And I—I am not offended!” . Hurricane Bill said nothing just then, for Don | Munez had hastened tohis daughter’s side to assure himself that she had indeed escaped the poisonous fangs. But as the tall plainsman squatted down beside Mustang Sam, he quietly uttered: ‘‘J reckon T’ll take a hand in that race you spoke of, ard.” It was finally decided not to lose any more time there, since the horses were beginning to feel the need of drink. And the sun was exces- sively warm. Besides, they wished to get out | of the Mal Pais by sundown. One night of such traveling was enough. Mustang Sam—remembering how considerate his partner had been on a former occasion, now, won Hurricane Bill’s undying gratitude, by ar- ranging a new order of march. As Buck-skin was the strongest horse, Hurricane and Carmela were to ride him, while Don Munezand Mustang took ‘‘ turn about” on Tornado. Just what passed between the young people— all that they said and a good portion of what they thought—the acute reader can probably guess. One thing is certain. Neither of them ever forgot that ride. It was the beginning of a new life for them both. CHAPTER XII. A MATTER OF COURSE. “ LOOK yonder—see the smoke signals!” mut- tered Mustang Sam to Hurricane, just before sunset, nodding toward two different points from whence arose slender columns of black smoke. “That means mischief.” “It’s Injun style, but I b’lieve it’s put up by | some 0’ those pesky greasers. They’ve sighted us, sure. Well, let ’em try iton. We sickened ‘em once; I reckon we kin do it ag’in,” quietly re- plied Hurricane Bill. : “Thar cain’t be more’n a dozen o’ them left?’ “About that, onless they’ve run acrost help. You mean—?” é “Yes, Thar'’s no use in takin’ her in danger. Them ’scopet bullets is so durned keerless—they hit any thing they hain’t aimed at. We'll press on to the open ground beyond them hills; an’ then let the old man take his gal. It'll be plain travelin’ then, an’ I don’t reckon the critters ever wore ha’r askin overhaul Tornado an’ Buck- skin in a fa’r race.” : This was the decision arrived at by the scouts, they having drawn aside for consultation on discovering the signal smokes, They would |, cover the retreat of Don Munez and Carmela, eeling assured that even were the bandits to too heavy ce. eg they could easily give slip | than twenty yards distant. the two scouts leap- : } | shot caused them to draw rein; and then, as the | | sharp reports followed in rapid succession, each ° | missile claiming a victim, the Mexicans sought \ 15 Don Munez demurred; he did not like to leave his brave young friends to face the peril alone. : But he was overruled, and finally, for Carmela’s me sake, he consented to carry out his part of the a programme as laid down by Hurricane. With Carmela on Tornado, and Don Munez on Buck-skin, the quartette hastened on and entered along, narrow defile, just as the ban- dits broke cover a quarter of a mile away charging recklessly, with wild, devilish yells of : hatred. : ‘Ride fer your lives now!” cried Hurricane Bill; and then, as the father and daughter dash- ed rapidly along the pass, the two scouts turned ~ and coolly faced the enemy, though keeping well * concealed behind the bowlders. . * Jest look at em! I don’t reckon they know who it is they’re huntin’ so keerless,” laughed Hurricane Bill. “T reckon it’s the last hunt the biggest part { os em ‘ll ever take,” grimly replied Mustang ; Sam. The bandits thundered on, rushing to their doom, with a strange lack of caution. But, af: ; Pa ter all, it was but natural for them to believe + that the fugitives had fled straight on. Why . should two men face a dozen? They, them selves, were not daring enough to suspect suck > a thing. , “The blind fools!” muttered Hurricane Bill, as the banditsrapidly advance in a close clump. . ‘Take it cool, pard. Let ’em come clean to the mouta. We kin wipe ’em ov» then, ’afore they * kin think o’ fightin’ or runnin’ away.” . And then, when the riders were not more! nf +9 he ed out into the open pass and sent a leaden hail - of death into the bewildered bandits. The first ft to fire. But few of them ever lived %o tell the, tale of that massacre. Cool and deliberate, yet . quick as a veteran sportsman among’ a cover of ; quail, the brother scouts picked off the wretches | one by one. Three of the outlaws managed to escape. The remainder lay dead before the mouth of the defile. And ‘the terrified fugi- tives were lent wings by the wild, mocking peal ; of laughter that rose from the lungs of the vic- ‘ tors. ‘, First reloading their weapons, the scouts took ! a hasty look at the fallen, then started out to: ; catch up a couple of the horses that were still } prancing around as if unwilling to abandon - / their late masters. With some little difficulty - the capture was ‘made, and then the scouts rode - hard In pursuit of Don Munez and Carmela. - But if Hurricane Bill counted upon another. stolen bit of conversation with the soft-eyed,' , a that night, he was. disappointed. Don Mimez- a had no wish to fall into the hands of Black . Garcia’s gang again, and he pressed on at a killing pace, reaching his rancho just at day- ~ : break, He immediately sent word tothe neigh- bors, and placed himself at their head, forget- ting his great fatigue, resolved to avenge the daring Ambricans in case they had been over- powered, as he feared. Instead, he met them a well and hearty. toni] There is little to add that the reader’s imagi- nation can not easily supply. a There was a little act ay over Don Luis. ' A little love-making between Isidora and Mus- tang Sam. Ditto between Carmela and Hurri- 4 cane Bill, who finally mustered courage to ask - the “soft-eyed ” to repeat in words the message Role her eyes had telegraphed to his, when he won- pe that tress of silky hair. A double conference * pee with Don Munez, who almost forgot his grave oa demeanor and blue blood, so overjoyed was he ; at the double confession, And he declared that he’d rather have the two Americans for sons-in- e, law than the proudest monarchs in the world. is Then there was a grand feast—a “holiday "— Noa attended by every person for miles around; un- ; less it were the few survivors of the once dread- ed Black Garcia’s band. And first among the skillful contestants, were Mustang Sam and Hur- ricane Bill, with Tornado and Buck-skin. Then came the fandango; after it, the ceremony which completed the “corraling” of our two scouts. : ad For several days the festivities latesd. Then the newly-wedded couple settled down to every- day life. They assisted Don Munez on his cattle | farm, and, in two years had fairly doubled the capital. the Indians soon learned to give _ that rancho @ wide berth. ras ia on Munez two years since, urricane Bill and Mustang Sam with their two wives still living, * cases inaliall moe ns hoe gee
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Young People’s Series- } Atta uit ie r, Peaker, Foot al Caine: Riding and Driving: Book edes j y, ded luster to heir lives an om Sus , Dw, Pp tm = Se ADLE’«m2 ABDAMS= Sos FAN HAND BOOK OF WINTER SPORTS ? EMBRACING: RO CURLING, LLER-SKATING a AMERICAN FO pee ote AND ICE-BOATING Together with the S Skating Congress; wee ease of Rules for P Cricket on the Ice. - keitte Makan rize Skating of the ray i aie re locos Bae SY Sea? Carer, 2 Rear ee ON pO NNN + Nee Cael wear Srenene an a :