Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 189) (1881 03 08)
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= alallntaladalaolal ee ee Vx : (| (Pa am | | 5 < . ox memento cae “Ad |e! lad! NS $2.50 a year. ot pa _ Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyrighted | In 1881 by BEADLE AND ADAMS, March 8, 1881. Sines PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS Price Lay 2 Vol. VItt. Purmber. No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. : 5 Cents. No. 189. re ; ae BOB ROCKETT, THE CRACKSMANS or, DRIVEN TO THE WALL. BY CHARLES MORRIS, AUTHOR oF “ BOB ROCKETT, THE BANK RUNNER,” “BOB ROCKETT, THE BOY DODGER,” “WILL WILDFIRE,” ETC., ETO. ifs 4, | Yi ; Z Ly { WZ LH OTN yy f i] iy q [Mid e f, ny “py THE LORD! YOU SHALL NOT! I WILL NOT STAND BY AND SEE IT! YOU MAY SCORCH ¥HH FOOL, BUT YOU SHALL NOT BLIND HIM!”
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Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. Bob Rockett, THE CRACKSMAN; R, DRIVEN TO THE WALL. BY CHARLES MORRIS, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ BOB ROCKETT, THE BANK RUNNER,” “BOB ROCKETT, THE BOY DODGER,” ‘* WILL WILDFIRE,” ETC., ETO, CHAPTER I. ON THE TRACK OF AN ADVENTURE, “Hy, landlord! Waiter! Somebody! Who- ever has charge of this shanty!” The loud, hoarse voice in which this call was uttered brought both landlord and waiter of the Frontier Hotel,.of Little Rock, Arkansas. . They ran anxiously up to their impatient guest. *'Yes, sir! hat is it, sir anything, sir?” he traveler looked up with something quiz- zical under the stern look of his face. ** What do you call this decoction?’ And he pointed to the steaming cup before him, “‘That, sir? That’s coffee, sir!” ** Coffee, is it?’ in a cynical tone. ‘Then bring me tea. If you’re making a mistake, and it’s tea, then bring me coffee.” The waiter backed off, as if he thought that the guest must, at least, be a lunatic. ‘Excuse me, sir,” replied the landlord; an- grily. ‘‘ But we buy that for the best Java.” “Do you? Then it’s a shame that you're so confoundedly sold. And what’s this? Beef or mutton?” ‘Beef or mutton?’ the landlord eniffed with contempt. ‘‘That’s venison steak, sir, Fresh venison, sir. The deer that steak came from was on his hoofs yesterday.” ‘*T wish to Jericho, then, he was on his hoofs pts so that I would not have to do penance over his tough old steaks.” With a look of disgust the traveler made another effort to cut a morsel from the leathery meab. He was a young man of a short, stout frame, ’ with a face that no one would call good-louking. But there was in his expression something firm and resolute, and, it must be confessed, certain traces of dissipation. He was well and fashion- ably dressed, and sported a gold watch chain of vast dimensions, while the glitter of a diamond ring shone on one of his fingers, “Oh! take this away!” he cried, ‘Or else recommend me to some good insurance company, where I can get my teeth insured. If you're poing to feed me on Arkansas venison of the ast century, just give me warning, so I can emigrate.”’ A clear, silvery laugh came from the table adjoining that at which the irate traveler was seated. He turned quickly, and started with surprise at the vision which met his eyes. or he beheld a face of unusual beauty. A soft, warm complexion, potas black eyes, and features of perfect mold met his gaze, form- 25 face that had a voluptuous fullness in its rich beauty. The young lady was dressed in a light-colored silk, with a broad lace collar about her throat. She was as graceful in form as attractive in face. “Excuse me,” she remarked, still merrily laughing. ‘I could not help it. Evidently you are a stranger to Little Rock. Try prairie chicken, sir, I think you will like it.” “Thank you,” replied the gentleman with a lite bow. ‘‘Do you hear, waiter? Exchange his steak of antiquated deer meat for the ten- derness of a roast prairie chicken,” The landlord and his satellite disappeared, leaving the traveler vis-a-vis with the young lady, who sat alone at the table, nonchalesthy sipping her coffee. e did not feel disposed to let the conversation “T am a stranger in this region, I admit,” he remarked, ‘ But I am certainly fortunate in finding such a —” *‘ Now, no compliments!” she laughingly in- terrupted. ‘“ You are stirring your brain to get out some fine speech. Don’t do it, unless you want to see me vanish through the door or win- dow. Ihave been dosed to death with compli- ments.” Si “Mercy! how can people help it?’ he ex- claimed. “‘ When one sees beauty, grace—” “JT see, You are as bad as all the rest,” she cried, rising. “T shall have to bid you good- day. fall Are you wanting “But you will not let me finish,” he quizzi- cally answered. ‘‘ When one sees beauty and grace so strangely wanting, when one sees so homely a face, such plain features, such a lack of e, such—” he young lady had heard his first words with a look of amazementymingled with spite. Then a smile curled her full lips, Finally shé ran quickly toward him, and stopped his speech by clapping her small hand upon his mouth. ‘“‘That is worse than the other!” she cried. ‘Such impudence I never heard! I wager high that you are from New York.” He laughed as she withdrew her hand. ‘* What makes you think that?” ‘‘T know the brand,” she replied.- ‘* There is a peculiar assurance abowt your average New Yorker that it would be to find elsewhere. Besides, I am from New York myself.” “T thought so.” sme looked at him, and burst into her merry ugh, ““T see. You think I have a touch of the average New York assurance. -day, sir. T hope you will enjoy your meal.” ‘But; oné moment,” he entreated. ‘I may stay some time in Little Rock, and should be glad to see you again. It will not be a new specimen of assurance to ask permission to cal] upon you?’ ; She hesitated for a moment, with a slight change of color. ‘“‘ Why, if youwish. Here is my card.” He looked atit withinterest. Itwasa dainty, scented, amber-tinted card, bearing on it the name ‘‘ Marie Delorme,” and the street and number of an address in Little Rock. ““Thanks,” he rejoined. ‘‘ Here is mine in re- turn. I shall be glad to call on you.” She cast her eyes rather superciliously upon the card which he had given her. It bore the name, of *‘ Robert Rockett, New York.” She droppre it_ lightly into her pocket, and walked easily from thé room, turning as she reached the door and glancing back at her new ac- quaintance, --* “Well,” he said to himself. ‘‘I’ve heard something of free and easy ways in the West, but this bangs Bannager! And how in the world did a woman with that face ever drift from New York out to this benighted region? There may be some deviltry at the bottom of this. But Bob Rockett isn’t'‘the man _ to go back on an adventure with a pretty face at the other end of it. I am going through it no matter if there’s fire and brimstone in it.” While he was finishing his dinner, and making some futile inquiries of the hotel people about his late neighbor, the latter had reached a house on one of the side streets of the city; and was comfortably seated in a neatly furnished room, fronting a handsome, well-formed and well- dressed gentleman. ; “Luck? Yes, prime luck,” she laughed. “ve flung my net, and caught a fish at the first throw. I don’t often fail, George, you know that.” ‘““Who is it? Not a commercial traveler I hope, like the last.” “He isa New Yorker to begin with. Aristo- cratic in dress, though a little loud. Wears a real diamond, and a gold chain that would han an OX, I’ve a fancy that the man Las a full purse. ‘* And will he bite?” “Don’t they all bite? Look at my face, rge Delorme. Am I not beautiful, charm- ing? What,woman can be more agreeable than I, if I choose? Do not imagine that any of these ung gudgeons can escape you, so long as you use me for bait.” ““You are beautiful, Marie,” he said, kissing her pouting lips, ‘“ hat have I not done for She fea lightly, as she fixed her eyes up- on him with a ye ery ie while her fingers Bones, with the curls of his brown hair. gones be bygones, George. We have both stepped into the’ paths of th I to win you, you to win me. I fancy that neither of us repents of our bargain. But, love is not money.’ : ‘‘And we must fleece this young stranger?” ‘* Precisely.” ‘And afterward?” “This town may grow too hot to hold us.” ' “T know what is in your mind, Marie. In New York, at the house of old Garland, the some sort. banker, there is a stake waiting for us whieh may save us from the trouble of meddling in these small affairs.” ; ‘“‘And revenge for me on my rich cousin, Grace Garland.” Therefwas something tigerish in her face, and the clutching bend of her fingers, as she hissed out these words. If Bob Rockett had seen her then, he might have changed his mind about visiting this Little Rock beauty. Yet the evening was not old when he found himself opposite the door of the house to which her card directed him. He paused for a min- ute before ringing, and looked reflectively at the house. ‘“T may get. myself into trouble,” he solilo- quized. ‘‘This following fine faces into strange houses, in these frontier cities, may be risky. The whole thing looks to me like a game of But, no matter. Iam not the man to back down on the track of an adventure. And I fancy they may find me as hard to man- age as I found my host’s tough venison steak. Harp goes for it.” His ring was answered by Marie Delorme herself. ‘“*Mr. Rockett!” she cried, with affected sur- prise. ‘‘I declare I did not expect you would come in response to my joking invitation, But come in, sir. Iam glad you called.” Her invitation was so warmly given that shrewd Bob Rockett felt rather inclined to re- treat than to accept it. After a moment’s hesi- tation, however, he entered, saying: “ A joking invitation, Miss Delorme? I bape not, I flattered myself that I would be really welcome.” ** So you are, sir. Good couaneny is not over- lentiful out in this wild West. This way, sir. t me have your hat.” She ushered him into a neatly furnished sit- ting room. Here, mucb to his surprise, he saw a tall, well-dressed, handsome gentleman, in whose face, at first sight, Bob recognized some- thing familiar. But it was one of those unde- fined recognitions, which simply puzzle with- out giving any safe clew to the person. This gentleman rose on their entrance, and was introduced by the lady as “‘my cousin, George Anderson.’ : : Bob bowed politely, though saying to himself. ‘Plague take your cousin, George Anderson. It was you I came here to see, not your cousin.” There was no helpfor it, however. He seated himself, and they were soon engaged in a lively conversation, George Delorme, alias Anderson, doing his best to make himself agreeable. “This is too confoundedly commonplace,” growled Bob to himself. An hour passed in conversation, at the end of which his gentleman host proposed a quiet game of cards. ‘* Just for pastime, you know.” ¢ / ‘Oh, that’s like you, George,” cried Marie poutingly. ‘“‘ Always wanting cards.” ‘But one can’t talk on forever. And I have a fancy that Mr. Rockett will not object to a me ‘Not I,” answered Bob. ‘What shall it be? Brag or poker?” “ Aha!” said Bob to himself. ‘“* Highly re- spectable power those. The curtain is rising.” ‘Tt is all one to me,” he answered. “Brag let it be then. And a dollar stake say. Noone can lose much then, and that will make it interesting.” _ “The deuce they can’t!” said Bob inwardly with a mental grimace. ‘“ Why a fellow could be fleeced in the twinkling of a tallow candle. But all right, Iam in for an adventure.” “Tam your man,” he replied aloud. “I don’t know much about the Ba but you can post meas we goon, Does Miss Delorme play?” “Of course,” she answered. ‘‘I have no fancy to let you two have all the fun to yourselves.” In a few minutes more the three were seated around a.table, cards were produced, and the were ready to enter into amatch of the classic game of brag. Bob watched his antagonists closely, but saw nothing in them indicating any intention to play unfairly. CHAPTER II. A GOOD PAIR ROYAL. We must digress for a short time from the affairs of Bob Rockett to pay a visit to New York. Those of our readers who have read the © preceding history of this young gentleman, will remember the sudden breaking off of the wed- ding of Grace Garland, through the discovery that her former husband was still living. ) There was but one conclusion. Either he was dead, and the letter threatening a visit from
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him was a forgery; or he was Hing and was a villain: Her grief at his loss had long since Mbeya to newer interests, and particularly to er love for Paul Essex. If George Delorme had really passed away she could but feel a sense of regret for his loss, If he really lived she could but despise him. As for her new lover, Paul Essex, his feeling was deeper, It is no light matter to havea beautiful bride torn from you at the altar, through the claim of one who had long forgot- ten or neglected his right. Paul waited with anger, Grace with dread and despair, the passing of the thirty days’ pro- bation. They passed, yet George Delorme did not appear. “The letter is evidently a forgery,” insisted Paul. ‘Some enemy of yourself or your father has done this. Or it may be an enemy of mine. Perhaps Bob Rockett. He was skillful with the n, and hated me enough to do me any in- ury. ‘No, no,” asserted Grace. ‘It was not he.” ** And why not?” “Because I do not believe that he is so vile. And I know he would do nothing to injure me. Ihave always been his friend. Besides, that handwriting! . It is undoubtedly George De- lorm~’s. I cannot be mistaken.” “You do not know how shrewd forgeries may be made. If it was he, the thirty days are over. Why is he not here?’ ‘“*T cannot tell you that,” she sadly replied. “Tcan then. 6 is not living. Bia enemy has done this. There is no reason why we should not get married, aud so defeat this subtle foe,” His ardent eyes looked with a warm love- light into hers. His hand clasped her slender fingers. She shook with emotion as she with- drew her hand from his grasp. “No, no, Paul! There are too dreadful chances! He may be alive. He may return. We dare not take a risk that might prove crim- inal.” Her soft eyes, full of longing, were suf- fused with tears as she spoke. ‘‘ But when is this probation to be over? How long must we wait?” **T cannot tell,” "ee. aa lots RE ‘* For months. ae years perhaps. must know the truth rst, “* f will not wait!” he rose with sudden resolu- tion. ‘‘The truth may be discovered. He died at Nashville, they Say. Then to Nashville I will go. I may be able to ferret out this dark secret. Wish me well on the journey, Grace, for it is in search of our lost happiness that I 0. ~ love and hope go with you, Paul.” With a kiss on his lips, and hope in his heart, Paul Essex took the westward bound train, de- termined to not return until he had solved this mystery which surrounded the fate of his rival, and bad either unearthed a villain, or found the grave of the dead. That George Delorme was living we need not tell the reader. For we left him but lately, dealing the cards fora game of brag to Bob Rockett, and Marie Ormiston that was, Marie Delorme as she now called herself. * Ace of hearts,” cried Bob, looking at his turned up card. ‘Tho first stake is mine.” “ Right,” answered George, “and now for the brag. It is your first put.’ ‘A half eagle on mine.” “Is that your best?’ laughed Marie. ‘‘ Why, even little 1 am bold enough to double that.” “And my hand is worth a twenty,” remarked George, with an indifferent air. Bob looked again at bis cards. Were his antagonists intending to play fair, or was there some scheme behind their ic be of fair deal- ing? There was one way to find out, ‘T call your bet,” he said. “ And you?” to Marie. “Not I,” she cried, with her silvery laugh. “You are too bold, you two great men, for poor little me. I withdraw from the fight.” Bob laughed. “TT gave you credit for more courage,” he answered. “It is my call. Sbow your hand, Mr. Anderson.” ‘‘ A pair of aces.” and George threw down his cards, face upward. ‘A pair royal of eights,” answered Bob, “TI rake the is : It was Marie’s turn to laugh. ‘He accuses me of want cf courage,” she eried merrily, ‘‘ and re he stops ata call ona sure hand, Why if I had held such cards I would have bragged the bets up to a hundred.” ‘We New Yorkers are not good on the brag,” answered Bob, Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. She dropped her cards and lay back in her chair to laugh, as if she had never heard any- thing quite so amusing. They all became in- fected with her merriment, and the game went on for some time in a very lively fashion, though without much loss or gain on any side. ‘Good! There’s a hand!” cried George, ‘Tl brag a cool hundred on that.” “Two hundred,” chimed in Marie, as she looked at her cards. “Three hundred,” said Bob, coolly. ; The betting went on in the same lively fash- Ce) mn. “Four hundred.” ‘Five hundred.” ‘Six hundred.” ‘** My hand calls,” cried Bob. The game had grown exciting. The stakes and bets made a heap of over fifteen hundred dollars on the table, for each better had planked up the full amount of the bets. George Delorme eyed Bob with a peculiar look. arie was no longer in a laughing mood. Her face had grown set and stern. Her black eyes fixed themsélves keenly upon the face of their young antagonist. “On what do you call?’ asked George, his right hand dropped below the level of the table. ob threw down his cards. His hand consist- ed of the jack of clubs and two queens. **A pair royal of queens,” he announced. “Tt is not good, down her cards face upward, royal of kings,” ‘ And I of aces,” broke in George. Bob looked at the hands in surprise. There was Only a pair in each hand, the third card be- ing a low spot card. “T see no pair royal,” he returned. ‘ Where is the mate to your pairs?” A hard light came into Marie’s eyes. ~ “ Here is my king,” she replied. Bob stared as he saw her lay a small revolver on the table, beside the pair of kings. ** And here is my ace.” George laid a large seven-chambered revolver beside his hand. Bob whistled. ** What does yourhand say, my game youth?” asked George, keeping his hand on the stock of the pistol. ‘‘ If you can ouvbrag that hand the game is open.” , ** Or this,” said Marie, lifting the neat, silver- mounted weapon, and bringing its sights to bear upon Bob’s breast-button. A grimace passed over the young man’s face. Here was the adventure he had been seeking. He was decidedly in a trap. But he was too cool a hand to show the white feather at the sight of a pistol. 6 half rose from his chair, and leaned for- ward over the table, as if fora closer look at bis antagonists’ hands. There was a touch of humor in bis expression. ‘Town up the corn,” he coolly remarked to George, who eyed him closely. ‘*Rake down the pool. Your pair royal is good. My poor little queens are nowhere before three such aces. Marie laughed, but with none of the silvery ring of her former merriment. There was, to Bob, something cat-like in her present laughter. zy I see that you have good eyesight,” she sa- tirically remarked, ‘It isn’t every one can see the Roe of that little joke so quickly.” “Why, L admire your way of playing brag,” answered Bob, in his cool manner. ‘ You’ve got such a good idea of filling out a blank hand. tis your deal, Miss Delorme. Don’t: let us eR playing yet. I want my revenge.” he two confederates stared now in earnest. Was the fellow an idiot? Or was he anxious to be fleeced? ‘Come, the cards are getting cold.” Marie mechanically picked up and shuffled the ee laying down her pistol before her on the table, ; The hands were dealt around to the three oan tak three cards to each, the last card being ‘aced upward as usual. “* Ace of diamonds,” cried Bob. ‘That robs the first stake. Who brags?” His two antagonists passed. They seemed at a loss what to make of his behavior, and to have grown cautious in consequence. ‘* My haad brags a ten,” announced Bob, George Delorme looked at him keenly for an instant, as if to discover what hidden thought was playing in his mind. Then a cold smile curled the gambler’s lips, as he laid his pistol on the table before him, and picked up his cards. He seemed asif saying to himself; ‘If the fool will, why let him. He wants badly to get rid of his loose cash.” ‘** My hand brags twenty,” he said. “‘T hold a pair rejoined Marie, flinging |- 3 ‘“‘ Forty,” cried Bob, flinging down the money with a reckless air. Marie seemed for the time stupefied at this unexpected behavior of their victim, She now came into the game. “Sixty,” she exclaimed. ; ‘* A hundred,” announced Bob. ‘““Two hundred,” chimed in George, pushing up a part of his former winnings. The brag went on, until more money than be- fore lay upon the table, the whole of Bob’s pre- vious six hundred being returned, together with a goodly pile of the funds of his antagonists. ob eyed the money with a keen Some odd idea seemed passing through his mind, to judge by the grim smile that passed over his face. Marie appeared nervous and alarmed. There was certainly something concealed ben ‘ath the strange manner of their young antagonist. ‘* Won’t one of youcall?” she asked anxiously. ‘There is no use to keep up this beng all night.” Bob looked again at the pool, All his own money was returned to the table. **T call,” he said. He was as cool as an iceberg. But it was not so with his antagonists. They displayed asense of uneasiness, ‘‘A pair of sevens,” announced Marie, “I am out of the game, It is between you two,” “A pair royal of Kings,” cried George, throwing his three kings face upward on the table, ‘* Not good,” answered Bob coolly. “The deuce it isn’t! What have you got to beat it?” ‘‘Three aces,” rejoined Bob, loosening him- self in his chair, as he displayed his cards, His antagonists looked at them with astonish- ment. They consisted of the ace of diamonds, the eed of clubs and the seven of spades, * Where are your three aces?” asked George. “‘ Here,” answered Bob, pushing the cards to- ward them, with a finger on each card, He leaned over the table as he did so, The next instant he had risen from his chair, flung him- self balf-across the wide table, and grasped the pistols which lay before his astounded antago- nists. Hehad gained his object, of distracting their attention for the moment from the weapons, ‘Here are my three aces,” exclaimed Bob, pushing out the ace of diamonds, and holding the pistols beside it. ‘‘Is the hand good? Or have you cards to beat it?” It was an interesting tableau at that moment, Bob stood upright on his side of the table, leveling a pistol at arm’s length at each of his antagonists, while the cynical smile upon his face was belied by the keen glance of his eyes, As for the confederate gamblers, they were crouched back in their chairs, their faces c) with fear of the stranger who had so cutely turned the tables upon them, ‘You give in, then? My brag wins? Come, I want your honest opinion,” ‘*Take the cash, and get away from here, while your skin’s whole!” cried George in a — rage. fThank you, but Iam inno such hurry. Sit still there now! Take my advice. x suppose. don’t need to tell you that these pistols are loaded, and might go off if anything made me nervous. But Ll won’t rob you of all the money. I could not think of serving the pretty Miss Delorme so cruelly.” Y The smile still marked Bob’s face as he laid one of the weapons on the table, and sorted out the heap of bank notes with the skill of an old bank cfficer. The scared gamblers noticed that he had taken only hisown money from the mass, leaving them the amount of their own bets. “There, that is all I care for,” he cynicall remarked. ‘‘I will leave you the balance. never like to quite my antagonists in a friendly game, “You had better take it all, since you fancy you have won it,” said Marie angrily. -“Thank you. But I would not know just what to do with that money. I will takea five for sample; but I do not care to fill 7h ths sed with such a heap of forged Pere, It is not so easy to get rid of counterfeit money.” The faces of the exposed confederates grew full of consternation. “I thought I knew you at first_sight,” con- tinued Bob. ‘I am sure now. Good-by, Mr, George Delorme! We may meet again.” He walked from the room, facing them till he had passed the door. CHAPTER III. / THE STEAMBOAT RACE. Tue good steamer, Great Western rapidly up the broad flood of the noble ed mov
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& sippi. Her decks were well filled with passen- gers, who enjoyed the bright sunlight of the April day, es they looked out over the full flood and the thickly-wooded banks of the mighty stream, and watched with interest the occa- paver craft that passed them, bound down- ward. Nothing that was bound upward could easily have passed that swift steamer, though a rival craft, that lay nearer the western shore, was strenuously seeking to do so. The two steamers, in fact, were racing, and every soul on board each was as eagerly excited about the result as if he was part owner of the vessel, or had laid a heavy wager on the craft which he honored with his presence. Among the passengers of the Great Western was Paui Essex. But he was not the disconso- late lover who had left New York shortly be- fore with the hope of solving an unpleasant mystery. On the contrary, he now seemed happy, his face being radiant with pleasure, his whole person instinct with hope. Witt the lively spirit of youth he took a deep interest in the race between the two steamers being one of the most eager in the watch, and the loudest in the shouts of delight at every fancied success of the Great Western. The og walking-beams of the rival boats pune up and down with startling rapidity. he water curled and seethed under their shar prows. Engineers and firemen alike were wil with excitement as they pushed the wers of each boat to its utmost. How fast they were going could not easily be told; the low, wooded anks of the stream presented no landmarks by which their speed could be determined. Yet it needed no log to prove that they were dashing forward with immenss rapidity. ‘*Good for our side!” cried an enthusiastic Westerner, throwing up his hat. ‘‘ We beat them reundly at that turn.” ‘‘That was because we had the short leg of the bend,” replied a short, stout, well-dressed erson. ‘‘There’s no use talkin entlemen. want to see our boat win, but ween you and me she hasn’t the backbone. The Occident has gained fifty feet in the last mile.” ‘Oh! that’s all confounded fudge! It ain’t in her boots to beat this stinger!” “Maybe not. They that live longest will see the most.” ‘See here, stranger; you’re a gay coon, to fo back on your own choice of a boat. Why in e blazes didn’t you take pasmeee in the Occi- dent, being’s you swear by er?” ‘‘That’s my business,” answered the other briefly. ‘I ain’t the man to say anything that I’m afraid to back with the cash, IT’ll laya cool hundred that she leads us in the next two a aeep or that she lays us out stiff inside of five miles. ‘*Oh! go way, man!” retorted the Westerner. “T ain’b on that. 1’m a church member, or ’d take you up.” ‘* A square back-down. Just as I expected.” roplied tbe other turning away with contempt. Paul Essex had beard this conversation. His young blood boiled. Was the honor of the noble craft he trod to be bluffed in that style? He had never made a_ bet in his life, and was conscientiously opposed to it; but this was a little too much for his ab Pe les. “J will take that bet,” he cried, stepping quickly forward. “ You're my meat,” replied the other turning. ‘And I'l build it up to five hundred if you’re Seat ly stopped, and started slight! e suddenly stopped, and started slig backward. Paul started stil] more violently. They had recognized each other at the same in- stant. The two old foes stood face to face, Paul Essex and Bob Rockett! For a minute they stood, gazing, or rather glaring at each other, while the spectators who had gathered at the prospect of a bet, stared in surprise. ** Bob Rockett!” “Paul Essex!” “Thief and villain! I have found you then!” “Tiar!t Dare tosay thatagain and I will serve you the same sauce I treated you to ten yevrs ago.” ‘You are not the man to do it,” and Paul ge wp his tall form, and glared defiance upon 02. “‘ We will see that, my crowing banty. Look to yourse)f!” The next instant Bob had him by the shoul- ders, and was shaking him as a cat shakes a mouse, Then, with a flerce aie he flung him backward. Paul would have en hea to the deck but that he came into sh Contact with the Westerner, who went down ashot, Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. Evidently the young man was no match in strength with his stout built antagonist, but he was a to the backbone, and in an instant faced him again, with clenched fists and gleam- e ing sae “* Get out, now!” growled Bob,” I don’t want to do you a harm; but by all that’s good, if you come ruffling around here, ll teach you a lesson that you won’t forget in a cock’s crow!” * Bully! as you always were; I don’t fear you! Paul struck a sharp blow at Bob’s face, which the latter easily parried. Several hard blows without effect. They were both trained in the art of self-defense, and easily parried each other’s blows. “The fiends take you! What’s up here?” came a harsh voice, as a burly figure broke through the ring that surrounded the com- batants. ‘‘ Hang it all, gentlemen, I don’t want to interfere with your amusements; but you're not ashore now, and I’m captain of the Great Western. So this mill’s got to lay off.” He pushed his burly form between the fighters with utter heedlessness of the blows which he might receive in doing so, and forced them asunder with a double sweep of a pair of the strongest arms on the Mi ippi. “* Fun’s fun,” he growled. ven’t I got you upamusement enough in the race, but you must be clawing at one another's faces, like a pair of Kilkenny cats? What’s adrift, anyhow “This here chap’s wantin’ to bet on the Occi- dent, that’s all,” remarked the Westerner. “The fiends you say! Why, I'll take a fist in that game myself, with anybody that wants it. Than I har for upholding the honor of the Great Western.” He seized Paul’s hand with a warm energy that made that young gentleman wince. All eyes were turned angrily on Bob. Men had been lynched for aless crime, Yet he bore it all with a cynical sneer as if he cared nota whit for their anger. ‘“‘ Excuse me, captain,” answered Paul earnest- ly. “But that is not the trouble. This man is a fugitive from justice. He is a bank robber, and is badly wanted by the police of New York, Ich him with this, and demand that he be arrested.” The indignation against Bob increased at this new charge. “‘Thunder!” cried the captain. ‘‘That’s a different. affair. So, my cock robin, that’s what’s in the wind, eh? A bank robber! That’s a serious business, gentlemen. We shall have S lock this man up, and hand him over to jus- ce. Bob’s Hoosier antagonist and several others advanced with intent to arrest him. He stood immobile, with the same cynical sneer on his face. “Stand back, friends,” he said. “It is not far to the side of the boat, and some of you might get flung overboard. As for this poy rooster, who is so full of his charges, where his warrant? It is easy tc call any man a thief, but I’d like to see him prove it.” ’ The lookers-on grew rather dubious at the coolness of the accused man. “He was concerned in the egubees of the Provident Bank of New York,” Paul hotly ex- claimed. “Aha! and maybe you will tell these gen- tlemen how long you were in prison for that same robbery?” , Paul stammered a confused answer. “It wasa false charge!” he cried. “I was only locked up for trial. My innocence was discovered, and I was released without a trial.” “Ve fine, that.” Bob was coolness itself. “Would you like to know the real secret of his being let out, gentlemen?” ‘“‘ Yes, yes,” came several voices. “It was because he was engaged to be mar- ried to the daughter of the bank president. The affair was hushed up to save the disgrace of it. me Siig to lay it on some innocent rsons to turn suspicion away from this sweet- treed lover of the president’s daughter.” The captain of the steamer looked doubtfully from one to the other. “Ts that so?’ he asked Paul, whose ingen- uous face was suffused with a deep flu “Tt isa rascally lie!” he indignant’ M cried. ‘Tg it?’ continued Bob, sarcastically. ‘And is it a lie that you stood up to marry this young lady, and that an honest gentleman took the opportunity to denounce the whole proceeding, and to prove that the innocent bride was about to commit bigamy ; that she had a husband still living? Is that a lie?” Bob faced his foe with a look of sarcastic de- flance. He dared him in his look to deny this <- allegation. Yet Paul’s face showed none of the expected confusion. It was rather Pen with triumph. His answering tone was full o scorn, ‘¢- Yes: he exclaimed, ‘‘ that, too, is a lie. The letter was a forgery, which, I doubt not, you had some hand in. i have just been to Nash- ville for proof of this charge, and I found there atantlant evidence that George Delorme died of Nosy a fever five years ago. that scheme, , falls to the ground, with the others.” A considerable crowd had gathered by this time, all listening with anxious interest to the mystery partly revealed in the words of the speakers. They were eager to discover the a of crime that lay hidden under these words. ever stared at Paul, a low whistle escaping is li ‘¢ You found evidence of his death?” ‘Yes, of the soundest kind.” “ Your evidence is not worth that!” and Bob snapped his fingers disdainfully. is y is it not?” ‘“‘ Because I cleaned out George Delorme in a game of brag, not ten days ago; and he was the iveliest-looking dead man anybody ever set eyes on.” Paul grew slightly pale at this declaration. He then turned away with a look of incredulity. He evidently thought it merely intended to an- noy him. he controversy suddenly ended. “The Occident has caught up to us!” cried a loud voice on the skirts of the crowd. ‘‘ She is forging ahead! Stir yourself up, Captain Brown, and let those two roosters fight out their own set to. Don’t let the Great Western be disgraced.” One quick bound took the captain ee the mass. He ran hastily toward the pilot house, while the passengers crowded again to the side of the boat, set netting the late dispute in their new interest in the race. It was no false alarm. The rival boat was evidently gaining. One look, and the captain darted below to the boiler room. , “Shove her up, Mr. Smith! You are getting no out of her! Why she’s creeping plone like a baby! Pile in the fuel! Don’t spare it I'll sell out if that tub creeps ahead of us!” ‘ Weare doing our best,” replied the engineer. “There’s ninety pounds of steam on her now. She won’t bear over one hundred. Look at those fires.” He flung open the fire doors, and showed a raging volcano of flame within. “*She must and shall stand it!” roared the captain. ‘If wood won’t give you steam, fling a tar barrel or two into the furnace, There isa consignment of hams down in the hold. That’s the stuff for steam. I will get some of them up, e ran hastily to the deck, and soon had the deck-hands passing a lige of hams down to the boiler room. . Soon beavier volumes of smoke poured fron. the funnel. The engine clanked with new speed The water gurgled more furiously around tho boat. A shout of exultation arose from the ngers as the Great Western 5 lappec Ex rival, and slowly drew ahead of her. Ter minutes passed. They had gained a full length. The engineer came wp and whispered some- thing to thecaptain. | “She must carry it,” he fiercely replied. ‘¢ Pile in the hams. Run her up to 140, if there’s that much virtue in grease.” “Ts there any danger, captain?” asked an anxious old lady who stood near him, © “Danger! Of course, there’s always danger. But we are going to beat that boat if we trave! to kingdom come in doing it.” He was interrupted by a terrible sound, % crash like that of the loudest thunder. 8 decks seemed to lift as the earth lifts in an earthquake. For an instant the whole boat seemed raised from the water. Simultaneously there came a rending, crashing noise, a hugo mass of iron leaped through the bursted deck, and from every opening volumes of scalding steam poured out upon the terror-stricken pas sengers. e race wasended! The boilers of the Great Western had exploded! CHAPTER IV. FROM THE DECK TO THE WAVE. OnE moment’s dread silence followed the tei rible crash from the deep heart of the Great West- ern, and then the shrill hiss of the outrushing steam, the despairing yells of men and screams air vibrate with still more of women, made the
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here and there mingled with the shrieks of ter- ror and appeals for mercy of the less depraved, while prayers broke from the lips of men who had never prayed before, It was indeed a dreadful scene, The scalding steam gushed in a volume of white mist from every crevice in the shattered deck, while bleed- ing forms lay here and there on the deck, slain by the hurtling fragme: ts of the rent boilers, and others ran wildly t> and fro in agony, fatally scalded by the escaping steam. Dozens had sprung overboard at the first shock. Hundreds ran to the bow and stern of the boat, in a wild effort to escape the scalding mist, which followed them in their flight. Aud now came still nore dread cries: ‘*The boat is sinking!” ‘‘Save yourselves; the boat is on fire!” Hastily grasping every available means of support, the despairing passengers leaped wildly into the cold and swift-flowing current, prefer- ring to trust to the treacherous bosom of the stream, rather than remain on the deadly vol- eano of the boat, where a lurid glow from below gave evidence of the approach of a still moro angerous foe, The Occident had instantly checked her speed on hearing the thunder like crash from her rival, and seeing the torrent of flame and steam that shot upward into the air. She was now steaming rapidly across the stream toward her disabled competitor, while busy hands were rapidly preparing ber boats for launching, in order to save the poor wretches whose forms thickly dotted the surface of the wide flowing current. Paul Essex was among the coolest of the Great Western’s passengers. He had, fortu- nately, been standing astern at the moment of the explosion, and thus escaped the perils of the whistling steam and burtling iron. He did his utmost to quiet the sbricking women beside ‘*Keep cool,” he cried, ‘and you will be safe, Tie other boat will be here to your rescue in a few minutes.—Are there no lifc-preservers on the boat?” This question was addressed to one of the deck hands, who answered: ‘* Yes, plenty of them. But there is no get- ting at those amidships. There are some in the after-cabin, but the door is choked.” “There are ways of opening it,” exclaimed Paul, seizing an ax that hung in slings near him, and running hastily to the companion- way. In a moment the sound of hfs blows was heard, as they fell in rapid succession on the door, while the noise of splintering and crash- ing wood told that he was making his way through the obstruction. The deck-hand seized an ax and ran to his as- sistance. But there was no approaching Paul, who stood at the bottom of the stair, flingin the keen ax in rapid circles round his head, an bringing it down with a crashing blow at every circle. The door yielded, bent, gave way be- fore his assault. In a moment more it flew wide open, revealing a cavernous depth, filled with the gushing mist of the steam. “Hold back!” yelled the deck-hand. ‘No one can go in there and live!” “Any one can try,” roared back Paul. ‘Where are the life-preservers?” ‘* Against the sides of the cabin; just under the roof.” He waited for no more. A quick leap into the mist and he was lost to view. The ob- servers stood spell-bound in admiration of his feat, and dread of the result. The minutes slowly passed, but Paul failed to re-appear. " “The confounded idiot!” growled the hand. ‘‘Didn’t I tell him? He’s scalded into a boiled mummy by this time. Anybow he’s one more saved from drowndin’, and that’s some com- fort.” “Not quite a mummy,” came a voice from the mist, and Paul staggered out, with both arms filled with the cork-floats which served as life-preservers. ‘* Tt’s not so bad as that,” he cried, removing the handkerchief which he had tied around his mouth and nostrils. ‘‘ The steam is cooled off before it gets to the cabin. Plunge in, gentle- men, there are more of them there. It is soon ming hot, but it is worth a scorch to save a e.” He hurried to the women with the preservers he had obtained, while several others of the men fcllowed kis example, ashamed to stand in dread before the danger he had so bravely Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. a TT an a a eee] terrible sounds. The curses of reckless outcasts Meanwhile the steamer was sinking deeper and deeper in the water, and the lurid gleam had broadened into a sheet of flame, which shot upward see the open hold. It spread rapidly over the inflamm:ble material of the deck, driving back the affrighted passengers as the wiuds cargied the hot flames aft. Gusts of hot air poured into their faces. It | would soon be impossible to stay longer on the | boat. Paul had repeated his visit to the cabin, | and been followed by others, until most of the women were provided with the cork floats; while many of the men, with the selfish instinct of self-preservation, had seized upou and sprung | overboard with these aids to safety. ‘* Here comes the Occident! Sue is lowering her boats!” cried Paul. ‘Overboard with you all! The fire will be on us in a minute, and the water is safer than tie deck!” He leaped from the stern as he spoke, and sunk deep into the cold water that swirled in switt eddies past tho sinking and burning boat, 1n his generous magnanimity he had given all the life-preservers which he bad risked his own 1.fo to gain to the helpless women, and had only his own arms to trust to for safety. But he was an excellent swimmer, and had no doubt of his ability to reach the shore in safety, even if not taken up by one of the boats, which wero already putting out from the sides of the approaching Occident. Yet the water around him was dotted with heads, scme of swimmers who combated brave- ly with the current, others of helpless persons who fought wildly with the deedly element which seemed sucking them into its depths, or clung desperately to their means cf support. It was perilous to remain within reach of the drowning wretches, who lage ge wildly at every object which came within their reach. Paul swam straight outward, seeking to es- cape the perilous circle, and warily avoiding the clutching hands of the despairing and sink- ing unfortunates, estruck against a floating form, which an eddy of the stream threw near him. Striking out hastily in the opposite direction he sought to avoid the expected grasp that might drag him helplessly beneath the fatal waves, But no such effort came, and ho looked curi- ously toward the floating object. | Itwas the body ofa man. Theselfish wretch, in his eagerness to escape, had girded himself | with two life-preservers, But t ey had been ; put on so unskillfully that they had slipped , down to the middle of his body, and he now floated, stone dead, with his head beneath the swirling waters, while his body was borne up- ward by the cork floats. ‘‘He has been well paid for his selfishness,” muttered Paul. ‘The floats are of no further use to him, while they may stave some other poor creature’s life. will take possession of them.” In a minute he had removed the floats, fasten- ing one of them around his own body, while he dragged the other after him in the water, with the hope of making it of some life-saving ser- vice. He continued to swim onward, to avcid the line of floating forms. Just before him was a man who was painfully combating with the waves. One arm appeared to hang helplessly downward, while he made his way slowly on- ward with the aid of the other. ‘* illo, there!” cried Paul, cheerily. ‘‘How goes it, comrade? That's hard lines, to fight the Mississippi with one arm,” ‘*- Yes,” came the reply, ina broken voice, “I was knocked down on the deck, and have sprained my arm. I’m afraid that ’m marked out as food for fishes. Can’t you hail the boats?” Paul had made a discovery, and a sudden re- vulsion of feeling passed through him. It was Bob Rockett; it was bis foe! He could not mis- take that voice. Should he save him? His evil genius whispered in his ear at that moment that here was an opportunity for revenge.” But no such thought could rest even for a moment in Paul’s ingenuous soul. He swam quickly up. ‘*Come, come, my poor fellow!” he said en- couragingly. ‘‘I have an extra life preserver. Hold, still for a minute. I will fasten it on ou. He deftly wound it around the lame man’s breast, and brought it up over his back, fasten- ing the straps across his shoudlers so firmly that they could not easily slip. ““There, my boy, you cannot sink now if you al Keep up your spirits and I will see that a boat takes you up.” “Thank you,” came the reply, ‘To whom do I owe this service?” 5 He twisted himself around in the water toward Paul, who was beginning to swim away, ‘None of that, my hearty!” cried Bob, “I must see your face.” His well arm clutched Paul by the shoulder, and pulled him vigorcusly arcund. Tue two men were face to face, “Paul Essex!” * Bob Rockett!” Once before that day. under very different circumstances, bad those two mon met; and those names had been spoken in very aifferent tones, A strange expression passed over Bcb’s face, His features assumed an unwovted soltness, “Did you know to whom you were giving that life pr. server?” he asked, ; “Never mind that,” replied Paul curtly, ‘€'You have got it. Make tue most of it, And let go my shoulder.” **Did you know me?” ronred Bob, with a tone of fury. ‘‘ Answer me, or by heavens, ]’:! find other means to wring an answer from 4 ou!” * And if I will not answer to such a tone as that?” “T must know, tell me.” , There was a different ring in Bob's voice, a softer light in his eye, , Paul looked at him for a moment in silence, and then said: **Yes. I knew you.” ‘* Very well, Paul Essex,” and Bob lcosed his hold, “ You can swim on, But, don’t fancy that I will forget that 1 owe my life to you. That wore than wipes out all the old sevre be- tween us.” Paul swam on in silence, leaving his o]d foe to float onward, uptorne by the life-saving float. Meanwhile, on board the Or cident, ail was pity, excitement, and confusion. The loats were bringing in numbers of men and wcmen who had teen snatcbed from the cevcuring waves, and who were hastily transferred to the friendly deck, while the boats shcved cff again on their errand «f mercy. The Great Western was now a volume of flames, which it was not safe to approech, but there were abundance of forms yet efleat on the waves, who might be saved trom death, Among the passengers of the Occident were two who stood back, look!ng coolly on the busy labors of their companions, but tal:ing no active part themselves. They watched curicusly as every boat came in with its living freight. Suddenly they started aud retreated hastily toward the cabin. “Tt is our Little Rock friend,” said cone of these, a tal] handsome gentleman. “Yes. He must not see us,” answered his companion, drawing hims'ill further backward. They had good reason, indeed, to retreat, for the saved passenger was our crippied friend, Bob Rockett, and those persons were George and Marie Delorme, the gamblers who had sought to fleece him, and been s0 signally defeated in their scheme, They had, in fact, still stronger reason to re- treat, for the next boat brought in Paul Essex. It would have decidedly interfered with their _ had he seen and recognized them, but hey were safely ensconced in the cabin before he set foot on the deck of the Occident, Five minutes more and the wreck of the Great Western sunk with a derp swirl into the Gark waters, only her upper deck remaining visible, on which the flames still fastened thcir devouring tongues. Over the broad surface of the stream no living form was any longcr visib‘e, CHAPTER V. BOB PLAYS A LOSING CARD, THE good steamer Occident glided onward up the great river, leaving far behind the scene of the dest)uction of her rival. She bad Jurked about the locality of the wreck until all were saved whom it was possible to wrest frem the waters. She then steamed cobcrly away on her upward journey, leaving the many victims of the suicidal race whelmed beneath the waves, or suffocated, scalded and burnt on the sunken bull of the unfortunate Great Western. There was no longer any desire to race felt by the pas- sengers of the Occident, ny of the rescued persons had been injured, and the kir.t sympathy of their late rivals was enlisted “. their aid. Among these was Bcb Rocke*.. His arm had been stvuck by a flying I will not let you go till you pron and was badly bruised and sprained, though there were no bones broken. ” He had, however, met with another misfor- tune, which troubled him far more than his in- jured arm, The river, which had been forced
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6 ee to yield him up, had not suffered him to escape scathless. His money had gone to feed the maw of the hungry stream. The pocket-book, which contained nearly all the money he possessed, had disappeared, doubtless washed from his pockets by the uneasy waves. Bob drew his hat down fiercely over his eyes, plunged his one well hand deeply into his pocket. while the other rested in a ding and roame disconsolately from end to end of the long boat. gecainting at the river between his clenched teeth. There was no part of the steamer that escaped his uneasy wanderings. The Delormes, who had been seeking to avoid him, had not counted upon having to deal with so restless a spirit. Suddenly Bob came face to face with them in the after cabin, to which they had retreated as a safe refuge. A sarcastic smile came upon the ae tracert face, as he lifted his eyes and recognized his late antagonists in the game of brag. He removed his hat, and made a very low bow to the pair of qetyats; who st with confused faces before him, “The fair Marie Delorme,” he said. ‘And her handsome cousin, George Anderson. | Or is it not her husband, George Delorme?~ This is, in any case, a highly sqresaple meeting. Is there any other game you know, that would make a pleasant pastime?” George frowned angrily, but Marie burst into her usual merry laugh, and held out her hand in a friendly manner. ‘*1¢ will not be brag, anyhow,” she exclaimed. “There is no sport in trying to outbrag such hands as you hold. Come, come, my dear sir, ou must not remember the little joke we tried get off on you,” ‘“T prefer to remember the little joke I got off on you,” replied Bob, with a laugh of sarcasm. “I don’t know, though, but I had best have let you clean me out.” ae hy so%” ‘* Because Py money would not then have gone to the es, and I could have borrowed some of my own cash back from you with a safe conscience, ‘Your money all gone!” exclaimed George. “Washed clean out of me. Nota stiver left.” ‘“‘That’s too confounded bad. We’re quits on the game, but I wouldn’t mind lending you a hundred or so, if it will be of any good to you. Ilike your ways, Mr. Rockett, and would will- ingly do you a favor.” : “iver so much obliged,” replied Bob. ‘“ But I won’t avail myself of your kindness. I am afraid the sort of cash you carry won’t pass in my market. Good-day. And better luck the next time you try to rope in an innocent.” Bob turned brusquely on his heel and walked 4 from the confused confederates. “Hang him!” growled George, ‘I would have liked to palm some of that stuff on him; and pay him up for his trick by getting him into trouble.” ‘‘Oh! leave him alone,” replied Marie. ‘ He is not the kind of metal for us to deal with, On the whole I rather admire the fellow. He is as sharp asa stecl-trap. The fact is, George, I fear this boat is growing too hot to hold us. It is not that I dread thisman. But with-young Essex, the new lover of my pretty predecessor in your affections, on board, we may get into trouble.” ‘*He would not know me. he saw me.” “Don’t trust that, There is too much at stake for us to run any risks.” Meanwhile Bob walked forward, a dubious look upon his face. “T ought to hand them over to the authori- ties,” he said to himself. ‘But, I doubt if a Mississippi steamboat is a safe place to arrest amblers. Besides, I’ve a sneaking fancy or that mightily pretty woman. She has sucha confoundedly pleasant way about her.” He lost the thread of his musings at this point, for he found bimself facing Paul ex, who stood looking upon him with a stern expression. “By Jove!” cried Bob, ‘‘this is well met. Give me your hand, Paul. Whatever there has been between us in the past may well be let slide now. After igs: saving my life I can’t hold a bitter thought toward you. “Excuse me,” Paul coldly replied, withdraw- ing his hand. ‘You didn’t save my life, so I owe Bie nothing but injury.” x “e all that’s good, I have never done you a arm “a It It is years since % “Don’t say that,” was the stern answer. is to 23 I owe my experience of the New York Tembs.” “Tt is a lie, whoever says so!” Bob hotly re- Bob Rockett, the Cracksman, meg “J did not like you, [admit that. But had nothing to do with the game that put ou in prison.” ‘* Who was it, then?’ incredulously. ‘‘ You seem to know.” “ Andif I do I know how to hold my tongue. See here, Paul; I have buried the hatchet so far as you are concerned; but I won’t agree to sell out old friends. Let bygunes be bygones. There is no need to dig up the past.” “There is need enough, then,” Paul angrily replied. ‘I cannot forget nor forgive so easily. It is easy for a plotter to forgive his victim, but not so easy for the victim to forgive the plotter. The fit of a shoe depends very much on what foot it is placed.—Nor that old story isn’t the whole. You tried anew scheme on me to day by declaring that George Delorme was still alive.” ‘* Well?” asked Bob, sneeringly. ““T have sure proof that he died years ago. Proof signed by the doctors of the hospital, and the city authorities of Nashville.” ‘‘Your proof is not worth a fig,” answered Bob, sturdily. ‘See here, Paul Essex, I don’t want to stand between you and Miss Grace Garland. If she loves you I would do ali I could to help on the match, for she is one of my best friends in the world. It is for that reason that I don’t want her to commit,bigamy.” “Tt is a lie, and you know it!” cried Paul, harshly. Bob's face darkened. He clinched his fist, while a fierce look came into his eyes. This ex- ression lasted but a moment, however. It was ollowed by a softer look, as recollection of what he owed to this man returned to him. “Tt is a lie, is it?’ he exclaimed. ‘We sball ms that! Se wer me,” ey" myareaped aul’s arm with a fierce gripe, and drew him forcibly along. AY ‘What do you mean? Where are you drag- ging me?” ‘“Where I can prove that I am no liar. Come!” 3 will not go!” cried Paul, setting his feet y. . But he could not resist the superior strength i? other, who dragged him onward irresist- ibly. ** Where are we going?” he again demanded. ** Release me, or we shall renew here our half- ended fighs on board the Great Western!” With a vigorous jerk he tore his arm loose from Bob’s grasp, and faced him sternly. They were on the lower deck, where few persons were present. Several of these were curiously approaching, attracted by their loud tones and strange action. “Tam going to prove that I am not a liar,” cried Bob. ‘George Delorme is at this moment on board the Occident. I will bring you face to face with him. You have not forgotten his looks. You shall see for yourself whether or not Bob Rockett is your enemy.” He started again toward the stern of the boat, now followed by Paul, on whose face a look of strange disquiet had come. They passed the mid-regions of the boat, where the great revolving beam gave motion to the huge wheels of the steamer. Thence they entered the first cabin. This was a long, car- pated saloon, neatly upholstered and furnished. t was well-filled with Bese gers many of them being those who had been rescued from the Great Western. Beyond this large saloon was a smaller one, the distinctive « Padies? Cabin.” It was here that Bob had met the two persons of whom he was now in search, and he walked directly aft followed by his uneasy companion. ““We shall see who is the liar,” remarked “You will find your man in there.” Paul hung back for a moment. Could this be true? Were all his proofs false, and was he about to meet the fatal limit to his happiness in this room? He hesitated, his face growing red and pale by turns. ‘sIn there,” cried Bob, hoarsely. ‘‘ And learn if Bob Rockett lies,” Calling up all his resolution Paul stepped for- ward to the door of the saloon, and looked into the room, his apes trembling with an o’er- mastering dread. A single glance and then he looked over his shoulder into Bob’s triumphant face. The dread on Paul’s countenance had been replaced by anger. eWhat ridiculous farce is this?’ he exclaimed. ‘* Where is George Delorme?” A look of disquiet came upon Bob’s face. He thrust his h through the <gopatns$ and cast his eyes around the room., Only ah t.dozen of Bob, with some asperity. SLL women were visible, who looked with wonder- ing glanees upon the strange manner of these intruders. ‘« By all that’s good, he was there a half-hour ago! He is somewhere on the boat,” cried Bob earnestly. ‘Come with me. I will find him for you.” “There is enough of this child’s play,” Paul incredulously answered. ‘‘I don’t intend to be a ae all over the boat, in search of your Will-of-the-wisp.” “Very well. I will find him myself, then. If I bring him before your eyes, you cannot doubt we her ate et this was more easily said than done. He searched the boat from end to end, and through its every possible hiding-place for passengers, without a trace of those whom he sought, What had become of them? They could not have flown into the air, nor vanished into the water. Where were they?” ‘ A sudden thought came into Bob’s mind. He had been so occupied with his own thoughts as to pay no attention to the movements of the boat. One of the deck hands was near him. ‘‘Have we stopped anywhere within the last half hour?’ Bob brusquely asked. ‘‘Where was your eyes?” the man rudely queried. ‘‘Of course we’ve stopped.” “* Where?” “ At Clinton. Two miles below.” “* Any passengers get off there?” ‘‘Yes. A gentleman and a lady.” ‘Thank you,” said Bob, as he walked discon- solately away. It was very evident what had become of George Delorme. Meanwhile Paul Essex had grown more fixed in his original opinion than ever. : “Youre a shrewd rogue, Bob Rockett,” he soliloquized, ‘‘ but 1am not to be cheated by your neat little game. After saving your life you might have had more gratitude than to try such a rascally trick upon me, You could have had no object except to disturb my mind, for it is evident this George Delorme story is all a myth. Itismy turn now. I shall keep an eye on you, my friend. I think it my duty to hand = over to the authorities, and telegraph to ew York that the absconded thief is caught.” He was reckoning without his host. At that very minute the boat had rounded to at another small station and Bob Rockett stepped ashore, unseen by his enemy. CHAPTER VI. A DOWN EAST HAND AT TEN-PINS. ‘“Yrs. Iam in your line in the West. On the Chicago force. Took a run East to see how affairs work in the metropolis. York’s a big place, and a good schoo! for thief-catebers.” The speaker was a man of middle hight, and of a stout figure. He was dressed in a dust- colored suit, of somewhat antiquated cut. A fur cap was drawn well down upon his fore- head, almost to his eyes, which were covered with a pair of large spectacles. A thick black beard graced his chin. Altogether there was something novel in his aspect, The person to whom he spoke fixed his eyes upon bim keenly. He replied in a somewhat sarcastic tone: ‘*T should fancy that Chicago offered oppor- tunities in your line. You are not all angels out there. Why, enough of our New York rogués make tracks in that direction to keep you busy.” “Very true. Very true. You do cut out work for us. I have had several of your jobs in band myself. Let me see. The last was a job of bank robbery, or something of that sort. A chap they called Bob Rockett. I’ve had the fellow on my list these six months, but he bas not put in an appearance, What’s the bome news about him? Has he turned up?” ‘‘Not he. His case has been one of my own specials. The coon has not sbown his mug on the home circuit. And he’d best not if he knows what’s good for him. If he puts in an appearance in these quarters he’s my meat, sure,” The stranger looked into the face of the New York detective with a glance of admiration. ‘““You fellows are wide awake here, that’s certain,” he remarked. ‘‘I’d advise the chap to keep out of these diggin’s, if I was one of his cronies.” “You'd better,” laughed the officer. ‘If I get an eye on bim once salt won’t save him.” ‘Pye a notion I’d know him at sight myself,” replied the Chicago special. ‘‘I have his de- scription here in my pocket.” He drew a printed slip from his pocket, and commenced to read. | “Small eyes. Full nose, with a slight twist
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in it. Wide mouth, and teeth in very his own perfect teeth in a broad grin. ‘‘ Beard- lesschin, Hair of a light brown and worn long. Short, stout figure. Fashionably dressed.— Why a blind man ought to pick him up, from that description.” ‘*'That’s him, exactly,” replied the New York Officer. ‘‘I wrote that out myself.” ‘Did you? Well, you’re good at it. you’llnab the rogue. He hasn’t been out our way, you can bet on that. Good-day. I want to take a stroll around your city.’ Will.see you again before I vamose. ou’ll find New York ““Good-day. I fancy something of a place, ould take you around myself itt had the time.” ‘Much obliged. Won’t trouble you though. V’ll manage to navigate.” He walked away with a sort of stooping, swinging walk. The detective followed him with a sarcastic look. “Ts that the best. Chicago can do?’ he asked himself. ‘‘ It must be a one-horse place if that fellow is a fair 5 ed The chap is not want- ing in conceit. He thinks himself sharp enough, that’s very evident, but it would be a slow shadow on our force that could not discount him, But the West is a new country; one shouldn’t look for too much from that region. Things must have the chance to grow.” _ The man in the dust-colored suit and spectacles went swinging away down the street, with an immense show of interest in New York archi- tecture. But as soon as he had turned a corner, and was safely out of sight of the officer with whom he had been conversing, a marked change came over his éxpression. He broke out into a laugh of great amuse- ment, while he twirled his fingers over his shoulders in a very disdainful manner. “There is nothing like bearding the lion in his den,” he said’ to himself, as he walked slowly onward. ‘Old Bandy is one of the keenest fellows on the force, yet I hoodwinked him as if he had been amule. Hang me, if it wasn’t a piece of first class impudence, to read a descrip- tion of myself face to face with a sharp detec- tive, and complimenting him all the time on his shrewdness. Come, Bob Rockett, I shouldn’t wonder if you’d rotate into that business your- self yet? You're cut out for some such line,” He took off his spectacles and carefully wiped them on the skirt of his coat. The loss of these aids to vision made a marked change in his ex- ression. It was plainly Bob Rockett,though his Mnatise was one not easily penetrated. The change in manner of dressing, the spectacles the thick beard, gave him the appearance ot being at least thirty-five years of age,instead of a beardless young man as he had appeared on leaving New York. Resuming his spectacles Bob walked on, threading the winding streets of the lower city with the readiness of one born to the situation. He continued his self conversation as he pro- ceeded. **There’s no mistake about it, but somethin has to be done. That plunge overboard relieve me of a good two thousand in the neatest style ossible. Now, I’m not one of the sort that can ive without money. I’m bound to make a stake, or make a hole in the ground trying it.— And V’ve another object in New York that’s worth a little risk. I must stop that marriage by hook or crook. Paul Essex was so confound- ed headstrong that I may as well give him the go-by. Maybe Miss Grace won’t be so hard to taanage. Imust try her next.—If I could only have touched the track of that cunning hound But I left the Occident I hope ed. “I haven't tumbled a ball these six Oe. I'd like considerably to try my mus- cle. He plunged into the long cellar, where he found several men engaged in the game of ten- pins, while a number of others were looking on with great interest. These persons looked around at the new-com- er, and there was some winking between them as they noticed his rural aspect. The fact is | bad con- dition.—The fool! why don’t he have that fixed by the dentists?” broke in the reader, showing \ grown ten-fold more countrified than ever, till one might have He rolled onward with his peculiar gait, his eyes fixed on the players with an expression of intense curiosity. “Say, neighbor,” queried Bob, punchin of the bystanders with his thumb. ‘“ What sort o’ fun d’ye call that? "Tain’t some kind o’ grown-up playin’ marbles, hey? Sw’ar I never see’d nothin’ like it down in our settlements.” Bob had certainly talent as a comedian. Any one would have imagined him some down- east farmer, who had never before lost sight Tee ee Mountains. “ ~< wax an on’t su e you have,” responde 8 person ahttoenel, “‘ It’s a new game, invented expressly for the king of Spain. Nobody is allowed to ey it in ope except the royal families. But you know there’s no copyright law with this country, so anybody can buckle to it here.” ‘** Laws! you ain’t tellin’ me that? But what’s so cur’us about it? Swan to gracious, if I didn’t take a notion it was somethin’ furrin at sight, the way it makes them boys walk Span- ish, . one ‘*Oh nonsense! I can’t tell you all the secrets of it. There’s an alley empty. Suppose you and [ play a game,” “Oh now! Why I never see’d it afore.” ‘* But it’s nothing to learn. You've only got to fling the balls so as to knock down those pins. This gentleman at the slate will count game for ou “*Lawsee! I ain’t no slouch at throwin’ balls. Used to be thunderin’ sly at town ball, down at our scule-house. Don’t cost much I ’spose?” i a trifle of fifty cents a game. We generally put up something more, though, so as to make it interesting.” “Oh! jest to make it interestin’!” and Bob looked so verdantly innoceut that the others could hardly help from laughing. ‘How much, say? Id like to tell our folks to hum’ that I took a hitch at the King of Spain’s private game,” “Tt ain’t particular how much. say ten dollars? Just for interest, you know.” *T don’t calkerlate to git beat, I tell you that aforehand. I ain’t no slouch on a straight fling. . oats allright. It’s your ten if you win i “‘Pre-cise-ly,” drawled Bob. ‘ Put up the cash then, fer J’m agoin’ to have a scrub at that fun or my name’s not Dave Drystubble.” He took an old-fashioned purse from his pocket, and deliberately counted out in silver the amount of the bet. “Guess this gentleman kin hold the funds,” He handed the money to the game keeper. ‘*No, no, Mr, Temple here will see that every- thing goes right. The people of the place, you know, ain’t expected to understand that there’s any betting going on.” “Neow don’t you be playin’ thaton, Isorter like this young feller’s face. Puts me in mind of my old muley keow brindle. No reflections, ye know, but it’s the same kinder honest look. Guess he’s the chap to buckle on to my money.” As Bob’s antagonist had no expectation of losing his cash he made no further objection to the aig i as a stake-holder. he latter had looked somewhat black on being compared to a cow, but he grew sunny again at Bob’s complimentary explanation, and readily accept- ed the office. “Dive in, my friend; it’s your first throw,” remarked the sport. ‘* You’ve only got to knock down as many of those pins as you can.” “Knock down pins!” cried Bob, with a look of perplexity. _“S)pose I goin’ to fling them bal 8 at pins? Nary. And whereabouts is the pins? ‘Why at the end of the alley. The wooden pins there.” “Them things? I swan if them ain’t high Suppose we old pins. Guess the gal as used them in her fix- he would cut a queer swell. Here’s for ’em, then. Bob took up one of the balls, spat on his hands, straddled awkwardly across the alley, and gave it a fling that sent it flying over the side of the next alley, and ripping its way down the gutter of the same, A general laugh followed this first effort of the seeming countryman. ‘“Hain’t got my bearin’s yet,” averred Bob, coolly. ‘‘Jess wait till I break my hand in.” His antagonist took the alley and threw his balls with great carelessness, bringing down a frame with the three balls. 4 thing now, Jess hold on, boys, Vil show you what’s in down-east muscle.” He flung the ball in the same awkward man- ner as before, but with rather more success, as it didn’t go beyond the gutter of his own alley. ‘‘Come, come, old chap,” cried his antagonist. “'-You’ll have to do better than that, or ’ll have a walk over the course.” He scored ten more points, “Don’t you be ’larmed,” exclaimed Bob. ‘‘The Drystubbles allers come in for snacks at the end of the game. I’m a-getitin’ my bearin’s.” His ball this time managed to cling to the board sufficiently to take off the corner pin. The second bali veered to the other side and clipped out a pin from there. The third rolled into the gutter. ““ By Jove, he’s improving,” exclaimed one of the lookers-on, with a laugh. ‘‘ All he wants is Me bit between those two balls, and the game's is. Bob set his teeth in a way that added to the laughter. The game went on until the score stood sixty to ten. It was Bob’s turn pea. His antagonist, who had been playing with the utmost carelessness, was somewhat astounded to see this ball curve to the center of the board instead of to the gutter. Down went the whole ten pins, Bob jumped into the air, and clapped his heels together. is “Told ye I only wanted to git my bearin’s,” he cried. ‘‘Got to stir up, youngster, if you calkerlate to wipe out old Vermont, Open yer blinkers now, and look at that.” Down rolled the ball again, and down tum- bled the ten pins. The laughter had quite ceased. . “Ye see, town-ball’s mighty good practice,” laugbed Bob, ‘‘I knowed I could fetch them sunners. Clean out, boys, and save your toes.” Down went the ten pins again. Bob’s antagonist began to look blue. It was doubtful if he had got hold of such a greenhorn as he fancied. He began to play now with care, but he was no match for Bob Rockett. Frame after frame went down before the un- erring balls of the latter, until the game was scored in his favor with thirty points to spare. ' ‘*Guess Pll rake in that ten,” he cried, ‘‘Kinder like thé King of Spain’s game. | Wouldn’t mind givin’ you a chance at old Down East some other time, if you’re agreeable. It’s sorter profitable. Hope you enjoyed it.” Bob walked with a swagger out of the room, leaving the young men who bad thought to vic- timize him, full of astonishment and chagrin. The thought was just making its way through their brains that this was a sell of the first water. Bob had not taken many steps, however, before he felt a firm touch upon his shoulder, He turned quickly and cast an angry glance at the man who had stopped bim. But this expression was followed by one of astonishment, and by a startled movement. “You can’t play it on me, Bob,” came in firm tones from the person behind him, ‘It’s shrewdly done, but my eyes ain’t easily shut.” “Roger Glindon!” stammered Bob, “The same. ‘Your old friend, Roger.” ‘See here, Roger. I thought I was playin it on well. Now give in; you didn’t see throug my disguise.” ger laughed. , ~t You gave yourself away in another fashion, ‘* How was that?” “By your play at ten pins. I was in the saloon and saw it all. Why, if it was in the South Sea Islands, and you were got up as a Fejee chief, ’'d know your neat way of hand- ling a ball.” Bob stared and then laughed. “Tl be hanged if that ain’t cute,” he cried. ‘It’s lucky, though, it wasn’t you I played that sell on, or i might have been laid out badly, myself.” CHAPTER VII. WHAT PASSED IN THE GARDEN ON THE HUDSON. A WEEK or two has passed since the date of our last chapter. The season has now moved forward until it is the middle of the pleasant month of May, and all nature is alive with the beauty and grace of the season of green verdure and bright flowers. . In a beautiful garden attached to Mr. Gar- land’s country seat on the Hudson, walk Paul Essex and Grace Delorme, or Grace Garland, as we have called her elsewhere in these pages. She is still the same bright, sweet, warm-focd
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8 girl as of old. Shan Oh Gla. . IS ie tas, bon den hon nk ig ka escaped the touch of the finger of trouble, and is not free from Ap ounl anxiety, yet it still retains its girlh and no one would imagine from her looks the my ee life experience she gone through. “T can hardly help being troubled about it, Paul,” she said, with a light sigh. ‘‘It han like a constant n igh tonne above my head. Of course, I know that | am foolishly apprehensive, after the peonts of George Delorme’s death — you have obtained. And yetit seems so that P pac Rockett, after your saving his his I e, woul k to injure you.” “You don’t know that man, Grace. He is a more spiteful fellow than ro Fiery “‘T must believe there is him. It is true he has been eapced to Bond associations, re etme am confident t he has good principles at “He dia not tell the truth in. this, at any rate,” Paul positively asse ‘“‘There is no question about Delorme’s death. If he did not wy, to deceive me then he was deceived himself.” ‘But - sent the letter that broke off our “Who knows? We have other enemies. moe Glindon himself may have written it.” stopped suddenly, while a quick color eame to her face. She slowly pulled to pieces a flower which grew beside her. “Tt may be,” she said at length. ‘‘He is eapable of any ‘baseness.” ‘Then why, dear Grace, should our marriage be further postponed? Your father thinks with me that every obstacle is removed. We have waited long. ae roust we still wait?” They ha themselves on a rustic seat. A close iilae t “mac curved over them like a canopy. The air was full of the fragrance of the le flowers. A rosy tint cone into her eh as he held her hand, and gazed with warm eagerness into her lovely face. ‘““We have waited so long,” he repeated. ** And I love you so.’ Her eyes swam in liquid light as she turned them upon him. She yielded her slender waist to his clasping arm. ‘Ser blushing cheek fell upon his shoulder. “And I love pou dear Paul,” she whispered. “T have been foolishly anxious, I know. But ifm father thinks it advisable—” e does! he does!” cried Paul cepenty, pean 8 rn to her sweet mouth, in love’s a ane Then you consent? Ah, sweet- Neamt none were ever so happy as we will be!” Silence fell between them, the silence of deep oopeeh and perfect trust. our later, Paul left. that Bertcs mn, mg ste °p was light and springy, *his eyes ing, his whole aspect instinct with joy and ORR light carriage in which he drove toward the welieras station passed on the road a person dressed in a dusty-looking suit, who was e's ing Geet Lis ove the country road. This pe son fixed eyes keenly on Paul, though oe latter paid no attention to him in return. “He looks happy as a 6 muttered the trian. ‘‘It is too bad hrow a shadow to that Paradise, but they had better havea era trouble now than a great deal after aw Grace still sat on the garden seat where Paul had left her. Her face was supported upen her hand, as she looked dreamily before her at the distant river. Her little foot tapped the pebbles of the garden walk. The glow of happiness burned upon ber cheeks. A soft murmur came from her half-o opened li ine. “Dear Paul,” was she said, but her tone was full of a soul’s deep feeling. A harsh step crunched on the walk near her. She looked up and beheld a stranger Foti iggy she baer with a sense of involun- ear. stout, ungraceful form, his thickly bearded chin, bis dusty, uncouth dress, even the huge spectacles he wore, gave him something of a sinister aspect. She stood with parted lips, as if ready to fly. ‘* Don’t be Miss Grace,” came in gent- ler tones than one would have expected, as the stranger removed his spectacles. know me?” “No. Though there is something familiar Pople tol of his and pushed back the di +8) ca ‘7 ts) ” sheveled hair. : She gave a ,start and an exclamation of sur- “Mr. Rockett!” she cried. “Wh brings you here? Do you not know t anger anywhere in New York?" ‘*Do you not what t you ‘Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. ‘* Not much, I fancy,” he replied, with a laugh. “TI doubt if I’ will be easily And if Iam, what then? I came here for your sake, Miss Grace, and would ing to run more risk than that on your account.” She looked at him with uneasy surprise. What could he mean? ecg do not know,” he continued, ‘‘ the can- Bohn has been laid ——r ou. Take Do not marry x. Not eat at ‘east, ‘* What right have you to assume that I have any Rouge ht of marrying?” she replied, with a u ‘Because I just saw him, and saw it in his face. And, excuse me, but I saw same in your face just n now.” “You are pc games too much, sir, I do not fanc being spi me et I must telly you that your former hus- band is living. It is not a month since I saw George orme. I have risked the journey here to warn you of this, Paul Essex would not listen to me, because he would rather get you into trouble than give you up as any honest man should.” mi sir! You shall say nothing against him!” she angrily replied. ‘* As for your other tidings I thank you for your trouble. [ am willing to believe that you mean well, but I am satisfied that you are mistaken. There are un- re th. ro proofs of his death.” dart st roofs are worth nothing,” returned nd Paul Essex might nara! known it, Bo a hed been willing to know it. I know rge Delorme’s face well to be mistaken. What is more, be is Fe Ae with a woman who name. ‘* Marie Oriniston?™ the cried suddenly. ‘Marie Delorme she calls herself now. I do not know what her old name may have been. ve ips dak ait an woman, with full face and hair and | black eyes. With attrac a ete Hateots Dey silent for a moment, her look full of care and anxiety. ‘ Excuse me, Mr. Rockett,” she said at length. ‘*T will consider what you have told me. But I cannot hear more now. I thank you for your good intentions, although I still think that you must be mistaken. She turned and walked a the house, with a heavy, almost reelin She seemed to a grown ten years 0 Poy 1 the last five mth web followed her ea pit tying ‘Tt is a_rascally shame,’ ald t to himself. ‘*T would knock my head Rohit the wall for a rogue if what I have said was not the ut a little trouble now may save a great deal in the time to come. I fancy that marria evry If Paul Essex anxious to m ad best take some means to put George nog out of the meddlin truth. 8 is at an end for the wa Bop made his way slowly to the wall of the garden, leaving the place deserted as he leaped over into the road. CHAPTER VIII. SHALL IT BE HONESTY OR CRIME? Two men sat over a chop and a glass of ale in the interior of an English eating-house. They had the establishment nearly to themselves, 3 ae there being no other customers ee Paaets, the attendant, who was stationed like a behind the bar, doing the honors of the establishment. These single customers were our old friends, Roger Glindon and Bob Rockett. The latter was ind , 80 far as his dress was con- cerned, but his face had resumed all its old ex- pression of pugged independence. h-d “Hang these les,” he said, taking them rok his face and finging them roughly on the table. “Only that my eo pageey” wouldn’t know me with them on, I’d be clear of wearing such rascally uncomfortable make-be- you tell me that you’ve mana oie ardly lieves.—So yourself, Blame me if I can swallow that. How did you ee it?” “‘Dabbling in wheat,” re eplied Ro; er, in his usual impassive manner. ‘‘ You can’t imagine what wonderful capabilities there are in wheat we boy. I know, for I’ve been there and found ou He took a sip from his slams of ale, and settled himself back easily in his chair. “In wheat?” queried Bob, surprised. ey don’t understand you. You haven’t tried your hand at gentleman farming, or any expensive amusement of that sort?” “ Not exactly. My case is a little like what the French call ‘farming the revenues.’ I’ve been ~ ee SS ee ‘ at it on the street, my lad. rip er mae the bucket-shops. Trying to toss the bear. Got well squeezed for my Ms “111 be shot if I understand you!” growled ee, ty What’s all this palaver of nonsense about “Good luck take you! I thought you wasa man of more education. I’ve been specs lating in wheat, that’s the long and short of I went in deep, and the bottom fell out, and I dropped through. If you don’t know what that means just go down to Wall street, buy a few cargoes of wheat on a margin, and wait for a rise to float you into fortune. You'll be likely to find out some of the mysteries of puts and I've wie lapped hi ket with hi palm, e sla is pocket w sS open while a smile came upon his face. ‘What, Yfleeced? Cleaned clear out?’ asked Bob sympathetically. 7 bet! Something rotten in Chicago. 1 don’t | pene to understane it. All I know is that I came out as clean shorn as a sheep that’s been eh the regent, Bob laug' re and emptied his glass. ‘‘We are in the same boat,” he remarked “Tt was the Mississippi river that cleaned me out. it hardly left me enough to pay my way cyan cut a slice of the chop, and put a mor- sel in his mouth, which he chewed in a reflect- ive fashion. He seemed to be turning over some idea in his mind. 33 ag Peg what it is Bob,” he suddenly broke not going to stand this. can’t five witbout money. I’m too proud to work for Le But I must have money by hook or croo) “‘m not a bit too proud to work for it,” re- pnd Bob, “if any wot offered that I was ‘fit or. “The flends take your prosy way of diggin anchor by pe du tang pare os ea an uicker ways of getting cas an tha “O ne a fellow might setup a faro- os Or he might play ae i and ring n on ten pins,” lau ‘0 ‘ ee sd? ob, And not respectable. I’ve a r idea. Aha Lr r for any good ideas of that sort. t workable ‘‘Yes. I think so, at least. See here, my boy, Ys you've been brought up ina rough way, don’t fancy that Soares troubled by any inconvenient twaddle Le Oe Rta my part there’s been a show of moral lessons wasted on me. But it’s all stuff. They won’t hold water. I want money that’s the prime pcar inh weg Dang, honesty, when a chap’s an em e od? D looked at him Serer: What was all reamble leading to me, my lad, = ’re not doing justice to Mb ae glass, " continued Roger. ‘Empty it, and et us fill up again. ‘What fr the blazes has that to do with it?’ cried Bob angrily, knocking the empty glass on the floor, where it fell in a tinkle of ringing fragments. ‘‘I’m tired of this beating aroun the bush. Out with it. What’s in the wind?” Roger looked cautiously around him. The saloon continued empty. The distant attend- an You Pac ms sg t b kin rib ou know what is meant by crac ac I suppose? Or say breaking a bank? Not by backing against the tiger, but by crowbars and ke tach fell back in his chair and gave a shrill whistle of surprise. Roger looked at him in his cool, impassive fashion, drumming lightly on the table with his fingers, while to all appear- ance he might have made the most common- place remar. Bob continued to stare at hiscompanion, with eyes wide open in astonishment. ‘* By the Seven a but you give a fellow a stare!” he exclaimed. ‘‘You’ve shown your hand with a vengeance, But you can draw it in again; I’m not on that.” “You've got to have money, Bob, and so have 1, so don’t so confounded squeamish, meee I want roe in the thing, And it’s going: to pay, om: ms wo ways.” si ie eo and in satisfaction. I calculate you'd enjoy getting a ring in the nose of your old friend, the Provident. “Hello! Is it at the Provident Bank you are squinting?” “Just so. And you’ve got to go in it. You know ow tee ey of the land about there. and hesitated : ou not alone in this?” "No. are others in it.” Spt em
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“ Just take my advice then. Back out of the whole scheme. I’ve a notion of living an honest life, Roger; I don’t owe the Provident any love, that’s true. But I’m not on that lay.” “Yes you are. You’ve got to take a hand init. Hangit, man, we’ve the whole thing laid out. It’s plain sopra & And a neat twenty thousand or so isn’t to be sneezed at.” “I don’t care if it’s twenty millions,” Bob sturdily asseverated. ‘*‘ Hush! here comes that bartender. I’m mum, but I’m not onit, Take a fool’s advice, Roger. Let it drop there.” Roger shook his head. He continued to gaze steadily at Bob with his quiet but meaning look. He of: ag, to be devising some new lan of attack on Bob’s unexpected fortress of onesty. But he got no Dp ey: Bob suddenly sprung to his feet say g: ““Good-day, Roger. I’ve got other business on the carpet, so I must be sliding. Don’t think Pll go into wheat this time, and if you take my advice, you'll wait for a better market.” He walked steadily from the room, leaving Roger alone. The latter continued to drum on the table with his fingers for a few minutes, his ore fixed reflectively on the opposite wall. He then set himself to finish the chop and ale, as coolly as if they had been conversing on the most indifferent subjects. At a late hour of the same day, another scene took place which had a closo connection with the one above described. It was after bank hours, and Mr. Garland, the President of the Provident National Bank, was momently ex- pected home, at his town residence on th avenue. So, at least, the servant informed a young man who called to see him, and who was asked to wait in the library until he should arrive. Bob Rockett, for it was he, somewhat impa- tiently paced the floor of this room, with no attention to the well-filled book-cases which graced its walls, or the objects of art which stood on its mantles, or on pedestals about the room. He was too deeply occupied with his own thoughts to be interested in minor matters. He was, in a double respect, bearding the lion in his den, for he made no effort at disguise, being dressed in a neat-fitting suit of gray cloth, an having discarded the disfiguring spectacles. ‘Pll give him one more chance,” he muttered to himself, as he continued his nervous walk. “T want to be honest, that’s sure. It’s for him to say whether I shall be or not.” At this moment the door opened and there entered the room a handsome old gentleman, with a very dignified bearing, who looked with an inquiring glance toward his visitor. “Are you wishing to. see me, sir?’ he cour- teously asked, Then, with a start of surprise and an angry flush, ‘‘ What? Bless me, if this isn’t impudence! Robert Rockett? And to dare to beard me in this fashion?” “Tt is not impudence,” replied Bob, ver humbly forhim. ‘I have come, Mr. Garland, to request that you should put me in an honest way of making a living. [am out of money, and out of work, and I wish to live an honest and respectable life.” “Why did you not think of that before you undertook to rob the bank?’ Mr. Garland angrily asked. ‘lt comes rather late now.” “T had nothing to do with robbing the bank. I was belied in that, as in other things.” ‘“*'We shall see. We shall see.” The angry gentleman hastily left the room. ‘ Wait for my return. Or go, if you prefer, while you have the opportunity.” ‘¢ Does that mean that he is about to send for an officer?’ Bob asked himself. ‘‘ Very well. Let him if he will. It is a question now whether Tam to lead a life of honesty or of crime, and the answer depends on him. If an officer enters the question is settled.” A Mr. Garland was not many minutes absent. He seemed somewhat surprised on finding Bob still there on his return, The latter person had coolly seated himself, and was negligently turning over the leaves of a book on the table. ‘‘So! You have preferred to remain, then? Very well, I have my duty to perform.” “And I have mine,” answered Bob. ‘I pre- sume you have sent for an officer.” “Exactly. That is just what I have done.” “Tf you had sent for the whole force, I would not go without my answer. Am I to be an honest mau or a rogue? That is a question which depends on you to decide. If you drive me into crime, it will be you, not me, that is responsible.” Mr. Garland gave an impatient toss of his Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. ooo ‘What have I to do with your crimes? How can I hinder them?” “By giving me employment. If not in the bank, then elsewhere. You have plentiful in- fluence, you can readily do me this service.” “In order that you may_ commit robbery elsewhere? It will not do, Rockett. I cannot trust you.” Bob looked at him with a strange expression. He had evidently played his cards to win an honest life, and had lost. But one chance yet remained. ““T was safe in the West, and could have made my way there. I returned here to serve you. This is the return I receive for it.” ‘** How to serve me?” in surprise, “By saving Ph 3 daughter from crime. I have discovered that her former husband still lives. If she marries as she intends she will commit bigamy. I have run all this risk for her sake, for I feel that she is one of the few friends I have in the world.” Mr. Garland looked at him incredulously. “Tt won’t do, Rockett,” he exclaimed. ** That is another game you are playing on me. Paul has been West and has discovered that Delorme | certainly died. You see that all your tricks have failed, I am not the person for you to try them on,” ‘Then the wedding will go on?” va Undoubted) ‘sg “Then God help poor Miss Grace. That is all T have to say.” He sat a moment with his chin resting on his breast. He was like one who had been defeated at all points, and was ready to give up the fight. Mr. Garland looked at him with growing dis- trust of his own wisdom. This moment’s silence ended by the opening of the door, and the ushering in of an official- looking person. “ Did Ae send for me, sir?” he asked, address- ing Mr, Garland. ‘Yes. This young man is Robert Rockett, who is charged with committing a robbery on the Provident National Bank. Arrest him!” Bob had risen, and stood supporting himself with one hand on his chair. The officer approached him. ‘Come, young man, youre wanted,” he brusquely said. Bob turned toward the President. “You have closed the last avenue against me,” he sternly vemarked, ‘‘ My life, be it good or bad, rests upon your head. You have shut the door to honesty. I will open the door to crime.” He walked forward, as if to leave the room. “Come, come, my friend, what does this mean?” cried the officer, striding forward and seizing Bob’s arm, ‘‘ Not so fast.” Bob turned sharply upon him. ‘Loose my arm!” he fiercely exclaimed. ** Not till I get you in limbo, my man,” And then came a sudden change in the scene. Bob wheeled sharply around and dashed his clenched hand in the officer’s face, knocking him headlong to the floor. The next instant he had vanished, while Mr. Garland stood utterly overwhelmed with surprise. CHAPTER IX. OLD FRIENDS TURN UP. *T am not exactly afraid of Bob. He's got a sturdy honesty to not go back on his friends. Still it’s mightily important to have him in it, and I can’t afford to let him escape so easily.” Roger Glindon tapped his boot with the light riding-whip which he held. .A look of inde- cision marked his face. He sat on a seat in the park, lazily watching the busy play of children on the broad mall. ““When Bob Rockett says no, he generally means no,” he cogitated. “ Still, some means may be taken to overcome his inconvenient honesty. Let me see— Ah! that may do it! By Jove, it’s worth trying, anyhow! I don’t know just how open Bob is to the charms of the fair sex, but he must be a perfect anchorite who can withstand that woman. I will make her open the battery of her charms upon bim.” Full of this new thought, he rose and hastily | walked toward his riding-horse, which was held by an aitendant. Springing into thesaddle he | rode rapidly to ward the Fifth avenue entrance to the Park, and took his course citywards down this magnificent avenue. ‘Poor old Rover,” he said, patting his horse’s neck, ‘‘Iam afraid you must go next, after my vanished cash, unless I can make this scheme work. I feel a little like the Spanish beggar, who begs on horseback before he will let bis an- imal go.” 9 On reaching the busier region of the city, he turned into other streets, and gradually made his way toward regions which might safely have been called disreputable. Halting before asort of inn on one of these narrow streets, he gave his horse into the charge of a ragged ur- chin, and walked into the dubious establishment before him, The bar-room was a narrow, dark apartment, with little of the glittering spruce- ness which usually marks such places, A few persons sat around the room, rather questionable characters, to judge by their looks, With one arm leaning on the bar s the oo prietor, a fellow halt eg half wolf, to | Judge by his physiognomy. ger walked u to this individual, making him a sign, whic | produced a sudden change in his sulky expres- sion. ‘* Harry Corson?” said Roger, inquiringly. The man pointed with his thumb over his shoulder, ‘Third story, back,” he answered, “ In ?? “T’ve a notion so.” Pll find him then.” He walked back into the house like one well | acquainted with its precincts, It seemed more | roomy than the front gave promise of. A nar- row, dark flight of stairs led up to the higher floors. He quickly made his way to the third story, and gave a peculiar knock at the door of a rear room. ** All correct,” came a voice from within, and the door was opened, revealing the bearded face of Bob Rockett. ‘“* Hello, Roger! Come in.” “A high old hole this. And a regular bull- dog in the mouth of the kennel,” growled Ro- er, with a sniff of disapprobation, ‘I tri the name and the sign on him, and it open I had a fancy it was you. the game like a charm. Come, Bob, - our- self up for the street. Iyé got a visit laid out for you.” ‘© What is it?” : “No matter. It’s to your interest; that’s enough. I want to introduce you to a charming young lady. I know your taste for the fair sex, you dog.” ‘“The deuce you do!” growled Bob, in sur- prise. ‘‘ You know more than I do, then, I care no more for them than a cow cares for cucumbers.” ‘* You have not seen this one.” ‘* What in the blazes are you getting through your cranium? Don’t be playing Sir Oracle on me, Roger.” ; “Business and pleasure combined, my boy. You'll know soon enough. Meet me an hour | from now at—say Fourth avenue and Twenty- third street. Don’t fail.” ‘* All right,” grumbled Bob. ‘‘Since you’re so confounded mysterious about it I suppose I must go it blind. I will be there.” In a few minutes more Roger had regained his horse, and was riding rapidly away from the doubtful locality. Bob proceeded slowly to array himself for the street, assuming the disguise he had before w orn, ‘“ What in the saints’ name has the fool got in his head?” mbled Bob to himself. ‘‘1 hate mysteries, blame me if I don’t! But, Pll bet high it’s got something to do with this bank- cracking scheme, and [’'m on that, straight. I am bound to teach old Garland what sort of a firebrand he is playing with.” At the time appointed he was at the place fixed upon, where Roger had not yet appeared. He showed himself, however, after a few min- utes. “Ha! my lad,” he cried. ‘I see that the in- ducement has brought you to time. Come, this way. I wish tomake acall on some friends that live near the Hast River.” He led the way in that direction, Bob follow- ing, doubtfully. They stopped at the door of a Md modest house, of which Roger rung the ee Saas Bob failed to hear the name he asked for, and followed him with growing doubt, as they were ushered into a small parlor. He could not im- agine what was in the wind, though he fancied it must have something to do with the projected robbery. It was with considerable interest, then, that he heard the door open and saw two persons 6n- tering the partly darkened room. ‘“‘Good-day,” said Roger, cheerfully. “TI ae taken the liberty to bring my friend, ‘‘ Corson,” interrupted Bob, pinching Roger’s arm. He had given a violent start on noticing the ————————————
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1 faces of these persons. There was a sudden movement as if he were withdrawing himself behind his spectacles. He had reason for as- tonishment. He saw before him no less ex- ted persons than George and Marie De- orme! There was certainly reason for surprise. He was glad that he wore his disguise, for it was evideut that my had not recognized him, and it might be to his advantage to continue un- known to them. ‘*T am pleased to meet you,” remarked George Delorme, looking curiously at Bob, who had put on his most unsophisticated expression. ‘‘Dear me! why it is too dark here for any- thing,” exclaimed Marie, as she hastily threw open s shutters of the room, and let in a flood of light. Roger somewhat anxiously observed Bob. He wished to see what impression this beautiful woman would have upon him, but there was no evidence in Bob’s face that he had seen anything in the Jeast degree interesting. “Tam glad to meet your friend,” exclaimed Marie, in her cheery way. ‘' Excuse me, but I did not catch the name.” Her eyes were fixed with a mixture of wonder and amusement on Bob’s very rustic-looking countenance. He cast a warning glance at Roger. ‘“‘Mr. Corson,” introduced Roger. ‘ Mr. and Mrs. Delorme.” Several minutes of conversation followed. Then, with a touch on his arm, Marie withdrew Roger from the group, leaving George and Bob engaged in somewhat stumbling talk. *What sort of a queer bird is this?’ she asked, as she pushed Rogerintoacorner. ‘‘ And what is your object in bringing us such a speci- men of unmitigated greenness? ““Ton’t buy him for a greenhorn,” was Ro- ger’s reply, while he winked ina very knowing manner, ‘It’s,his game to play that, but take my word for it tira c's es sharp as a razor.” ‘And who is he?% Why do you bring him here?” : ‘* Because I want your help to win him over. He’s on the—” he finished the sentence with a peculiarly significant sign. “What? He?” she looked again at Bob, with start of surprise. ‘‘ Well, not entirely. But we must have him. The thing cannot go on without him, infact. i have tried my hand on him, and signally failed. I want you to see what you can do with him. The fellow is susceptible. I could see that he was struck by your face at the start. Try the seductive on him.” She looked again at Bob, who was sitting in an awkwardly doubled-up attitude, blinking through his spectacles. A laugh curled her pretty lips. ‘Why you might as wellset me to make love to a frog; or a philosopher; I don’t know which is the worst.” Roger echoed her laugh. “You don’t know him,I see. Try it on in your best fashion. You’ll not find bim hard to win. ‘* And for mercy’s sake, what shall I do with such a specimen after I have won him?” she asked, with a sbrug of her pretty shoulders. “Polish him up. He’s a rough diamond,” laughed Roger. After a few words more he walked forward, and touched George Delorme on the shoulder. “T wish a few words with you on business,” he remarked. ‘*‘ Wecan leave our fair friend to entertain Mr. Corson. If it will not be too much trouble?” ‘No trouble whatever,” answered Marie, with her most seductive smile. ‘I shall be only too happy to try and render myself agreeable to Mr. Corson.” Bob looked at ber with an amusing appear- ance of shyness. He seemed half afraid to be left alone with such a dangerous beauty. She, inwardly amused, drew her chair up very close to him, but fronting him so that he could not belp catching the perilous gleam of her black eyes. ‘* Are you short-sighted, Mr. Corson? Excuse me for asking. But you are so young a man to wear glasses.” “ Why, n-no,” answered Bob, with a hesitat- ing stammer. ‘‘It’s—it’s the doctor’s order. Bad eyesight.” ‘“Oh my” you don’t tell me that! Let me see.” She rested a hand on his shoulder as she looked very Closely into his eyes. Bob blinked, as if he was dazzled. “How did it ever happen?” A change came over the expression of Bob’s face. He seemed to have suddenly decided upon a new role. “ Got it from looking too close into a pair of black eyes,” he replied. Marie flushed as she drew quickly back. Then her momentary confusion was followed by a silvery laugh. She tapped Bob playfully on the cheek. “You rogue!” she cried, laying her hand in a thoughtless manner upon his. ‘So thatis your game then’ Playing the sly country bumpkin on us? Ah! I suspected something of the sort from the first.” Bob caught her hand in a warm grasp and blinked closely at her through his spectacles. He had drawn his chair very near to hers. ‘““You won’t mind it, Mrs. Delorme, if I tell you that you’re an extraordinarily pretty wo- man?” ‘*What do you mean, sir?’ she withdrew her hand, with a flushed face, ‘* Excuse me, but I vow that I can’t help it. It isn’t every day that one sees such eyes and ie And such a surprisingly charming color. Bob gave vent to a sigh that seemed to come from his boots. His arm showed an inclination to glide around her waist. This was rather too much for Marie’s temper; she sprung to her feet, her cheeks blazing with anger. ‘Do you wish to insult me, sir?’ ‘* Insult you? By telling you that you are pretty? Why, bless me, if I was a girl I’d give my best shoes to be insulted in that fashion. Don’t be angry, Mrs. Delorme. I am _ never left alone with a pretty woman, but I feel an irresistible desire to compliment her. And when one meets such a charming, person as you —Ah! that I might but touch my lips to that sweet hand!” The pretty face was crimsoned. The eyes flashed fire. ‘You shall!” she cried, ‘‘but not in the fashion you mean!” In a moment she had dealt him a ringing slap on the mouth with her open hand, and bounced from the room, her whole frame trembling with passion. “Well got rid of,” cried Bob, taughing in great amusement. ‘The woman was making too desperate an assault on me. She'd have been through my disguise in a minute more if I hadn’t turned the tables on her. And as for my sharp friend Roger, I fancy that I’ve check- mated his game, whatever it is. He must show his hand more plainly if he wants me.” CHAPTER X. PLOT AND COUNTERPLOT. Tur Provident National Bank was in the full tide of business, The tellers were paying out and receiving money at an incomprehensible rate of speed. The clerks were plunged head and shoulders into the depths of calculations. Customers were coming and going as busily as ants in anant-hill. One might have thought that the business of the whole world rested upon the brains and arms of the officers of that bank, and that the earth would stop turning if they should desist for a single moment from their duties. Paul Essex, raised in ition with unusual rapidity by the favor of the President, was now ee though not formally, assistant _cash- ier. oung as he was, bis intelligence and close attention to business had made him a thorough financier, and though some of the older officers envied him, they could not deny that he was well-fitted for the position. At the hour in which we find ourselves in this scene of active industry, he was closeted re the President in the private room of the atter. Mr. Garland reflectively bit the end of his quill pen as he remarked: ‘“*T would never have dreamed that young Rockett could turn out such an unmitigate scamp. After behaving himself so well for years of bank duty. There is no mistake about it, Paul, Blood will tell.” ‘“T was always doubtful of him,” answered Paul. ‘We were boys together, as you know. There was too much bad blood in him then to be easily got rid of.” ‘*One would think, then, that he might have some sentiment about old times, and not enter- tain such a spite against you.” ‘He never liked me,” answered Paul. “ We fought like young wolves in our youth, and as I happened to be the strongest, Rockett usually got the worst of the battle. I believe he has cherished it against me ever since.” “ But after your saving his life? That should at least, di him, even if he is incapable o gratitude.” Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. Paul shook his head doubtfully, He. evi- dently had no faith in Bob Rockett. “Tt is monstrously strange,” remarked the President, still biting at his pen. ‘‘ Grace always had great influence over him, and was always his friend. Why should he show this spiteful feeling against her? Can it be possible that the fellow is honest in his intentions, and that_he really fancies that he bas seen George De- lorme?” A ge smile marked Paul’s face. ‘‘T half believed so once,” he replied. fellow was so urgent.” “ But you do not believe so now?” “No. I fancy that I understand him better. His action may be entirely consistent with his sentiment toward Grace.” ‘* How so?” in surprise. ¥h gy es) that sentiment be more than grati- tude? May it not be love?” asked Paul, with a meaning look. ‘‘ Suppose that her charms have roused such a feeling in his dark soul, Would he not make every effort to‘prevent her becom- ing the wife of another?” ‘By Jove, Paul!” cried Mr, Garland, spring- ingup. “ You have hit the mark, I verily be- lieve. That accounts for the whole business. His manner toward Grace and all. I did feel a shadow of doubt, I acknowledge, but I see through the affair now. There is nothing in the way of your marriage.” ‘“T think not,” said Paul, with a modest blush, “Tt shall go on then,” energetically. ‘‘ And I hope we rie succeed in capturing this rogue in advance. I would like to make you a wed- ding present of that sort.” a harbor no enmit oe him.” “ But I do,” cried Mr. Garland. ‘‘ And, what is more, Paul, from his behavior at that inter- view I had with him I fancy that he has a design to injure me in some way. I imagine in short, that he is concocting a scheme to rob this bank. That must be the crime which he seemed so anxious to perform.” A look of apprehension came upon Paul's face. It was followed by an expression of doubt. ‘“‘I don’t think we need fear that, sir. It is impossible.” I am not so sure of that. See here, Paul, I have been thinking of something in connection with this.” ’ erry Gay Sir, = “Jones, you know, earries the safe key and the conibination.” ‘** Precisely.” ‘“] am none too sure of that man. His face does not impress me favorably. For the present I should prefer to have that key in unquestion- able bands.” “Tt might be well.” . “ In short, Paul, I wish you to take charge of i “Me, sir?” “Yes. I cannot afford to leave so important a matter open to doubt.” ‘But there are Thompson, or Willing. No one can doubt their honesty.” ‘Certainly not. But I bave decided on you. You will take charge of the key and combina- tion for the present.” “Very well, sir, if you desire it. But will you advise Mr. Jones of this change? It might not seem proper to come from so young a man m e. “ Allright, my boy,” with a smile, ‘‘I will attend to that.” Paul left the audience chamber with a mingled look of doubt and exultation upon his features. **The At about thesame hour that this conversation was taking place, a talk gers 3 partly on the same subjects, occurred in another part of the city. This was in the modest domicile inhabited by George and Marie Delorme. She was attired in a neat-fitting morning gown, a crimson sash encircling her slender waist. She leaned back negligently in her chair, her taper fingers playing idly upon the table. There was a hightened color in her face. ‘You think that the marriage will undoubt- edly come off?” “There is no question about it, if I only take care to keep out of sight. Young Essex fancies that he has got sure evidence of my death.” He laughed lightly at the thought. “ Heaven grant it may!” she answered with fervor. ‘‘ For then—” “ What?” ‘¢Oh, nothing. But our relations have been so questionable, George. If I could feel that she no longer had claim on you!” / »>-
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————SE ee He laughed again, somewhat brutally, and filliped her fair cheek with his finger. “Why, you little ninny! I thought you were well past all such nonsense.” ‘*T shall never be past that nonsense, George. I want you for mine, and mine only. That is what love means with me.” Her arm wound softly around his neck. Her eyes looked into his with a deep wealth of af- fection. Her whole frame seemed instinct with adoration of the unworthy being by her side. ‘He returned her look with a passionate devotion equal to her own. ‘At first, you remember, you intended break off the wedding,” she said. : “Exactly. But you-were wiser than I. It was your scheme, you rogue, to prepare those proofs of my death for young Mace, There is no doubt that we can bleed old Garland more free- ly if we let his daughter commit bigamy, than imply to buy me off as an undesirable hus- ana, “* And they are satisfied with the proofs?” “They could not help being. Why they have certificates of my death from the mayor, the hospital doctor, and other officials. 1 took good care, you know, to shift my name to a poor devil who went under with the fever.” “And now, George, I have something else I want to talk with you about.” She changed her seat from the chair to his knee. “I want you to give up this bank-robbing scheme. It is too dangerous an undertaking. And why did you ever go into a plot to rob the bank when you had the President already under your thumb? Come, come, my dear, you did not show your usual wisdom in that.” “‘Glindon made me believe the other scheme had fallen through,” he replied. ‘‘ And I was bound to injure old Garland in any way that offered. It is too late now; I cannot go back.” “You must,” *“No, no. It is safe, I tell you. Our plan is too sound a one to fail, Why, Marie, the bank lies at our mercy. There is Jones, who has the key and the combination. He is in with us. Of course we must give him the chance to pla honest by a little decent opposition. But he is ours to the backbone, And then we expect to bring the watchman into the scheme.” She stirred quickly, while her eyes flashed with a fiery light. ‘“‘T know what you mean,” she angrily cried. ‘You had that countritied rascal brought here for me to win over! The insulting villain! I am only sorry I did not deal him worse than a blow upon the mouth.” ‘ George laughed heartily at her anger. He bent down and kissed her pouting lips. “There! let that cool your fury, my sweet. Why, the fellow guessed the trick, and was playing right into your hands. I did not know ou had such strong objections to being made ove to.” “Then bring him back here, and I will give him another opportunity,” she energetically ex- claimed. ‘“ But I will ring my approbation upon his ear instead of upon his mouth, the next time.” ‘‘ But we must have him, Marie. Roger says that he is indispensable. He knows ali about the bank. And he is the only one who can ap- proach the watchman. I don’t know that you should object to his helping you out in your own effort to win him over.’ “Oh! you are a set of fools, all together!” she cried with biting scorn, as she rose and paced the floor, “I shonld never have under. taken such a task. Why the fellow was no more susceptible than an oak log. Do you imagine that I didn’t see that? He read me through at first sight, and began to fire my own shot back upon me in the coolest style you ever saw. Ho was laughing in his sleeve all the time.” ‘“T see what is wrong,” answered George, smiling. ‘* You have been spoiled by too much sound admiration to put up with the counterfeit article.” 7 4 ‘* Anyhow I will have nothing to do with that fellow. You will have to bait some other hook for him.” She left the room, with anangry step. George laughed at her unusual spleen. But this merri- ment soon gave way to a more serious look, “She means it, too,” he said to himself. ‘Roger will have to try some other plan, for the fiends could not move her when she gets in a mood liko this.” Roger Glindon was equally troubled about Bob’s obstinate disposition. “T fancied he would melt before that woman like iee before a fire,” he said. ‘Yet in five minutes he sueeeeded in making her positively furious. Bobis certainly improving. I did not fancy there was somuchin him. .The rogue must have seen through my game, and played this trick to turn the tables on me.” He was cooling his heels in front of a club room, when who should he see coming along but the veritable Bob, snuff-colored suit, fur cap, spectacles and all. ger caught him by the arm and drew him inside the door. ‘“* In uniform yet?” ‘“‘T calculate so. The dogs are getting hotter on my track thanever. You see, I keep the run of the game. I have made tbe acquaintance of a very keen detective, and have a talk with him every day or two on the subject. He keeps me neatiy posted about every step of the hunt for Bob Rockett.” ‘* Well, you are getting to be a coon!” laughed Roger. ‘But look oul. Don’t put your head too often in the trap. It may close on you sud- denly some day. Come in; | want a private talk with you.” He led the way to an unoccupied room in the club-house. ‘**See here, Bob, you villain,” began Roger, “‘T will not cater for you any more if thai is the way you serve me, after my trouble in pick- ing you out such alovely woman. What devil’s humor got into you?” ** Lovely woman be hanged!” growled Bob. “*T ain’t on that lay.” > **'You are not quite made of stone, are you?” “Tam not to be tricked, by man or woman. You might have known that, before trying it on. Come, if you want me, show your hand. No beating around the bush. What’s in the wind?” **'You don’t need to be told.” “Ts it that Provident Bank business?” ** You hit the nail on the head there. my lad, is it yes or no?” ‘*That’s better, anyhow, than setting a wo- man to draw meon. What work is laid out for me in the scheme?” Roger looked gnestiOusHahy. into his face. He seemed seeking for some assurance there before showing his hand more fully. “Tm your man, Roger,” cried Bob. ‘Old Garland has kicked me out of his books, He can’t growl if I fall into yours. Out with it. What is my share of the game?” “There’s two men we need,” rejoined, Roger with a look of satisfaction. ‘‘I’ve got one o them safe, your old friend Jones. You can win the other, the night watchman.” ‘*That depends. Is old Colly still on?” 6-Yes,” “Then he is mine,” exclaimed Bob. handle him. Trust me for that.” ‘You are in it then?” ‘*Body and soul,” cried Bob, striking hands with his new confederate. CHAPTER XI. NIGHT BUSINESS AT THE PROVIDENT, Down-rown in New York was almost deserted, though it was a very early hour in the evening. Right o’clock had not yet sounded, and yet, on lower Brogawey, and the business streets in that vicinity, there only remained a shadowy remnant of the throngs which had swarmed there during the day. Here and there a policeman lounging on his beat; yonder astray merchant, here’a belated clerk, there agroup hurrying toward the ferry; such was the nightly remains of the mass of life which had, at nightfall, flowed in every direction away from this center of business, but not of pleasure. At a dark corner on Courtlandt street, just out of Broadway, stood a group of four men. They seemed anxious to avoid observation, and their voices ceased, or sunk into whispering tones, at every ap- proach of a footstep. They were dressed in dar clothes, and one of eheen carried over his shoulder a bag, made of some dark material. He let this drop slowly to the ground, with a groan of disaffection. “Tt’s sinful heavy,’ he muttered. “There’s no use standing here like a post, with a mountain on my shoulders. I'll let the ground carry it awhile,” ‘Hush!’ warned another. ‘“There’s some one coming.” A young man approached, and walked past, with out even glancing toward them. A _ neighboring clock rung with the first stroke of eight. “Ha! There’s the hour,” exclaimed the last speaker. “Be ready now, lads. Any minute may bring him.” A step sounded from the direction of the river, A man approached, a tall, thin individual. He looked curiously at the groupas he passed. One of the men made a movement to follow him. He was stopped by another, who laid a hand on his arm. ‘Steady, steady,” said this second, ‘“Thatis not our man, I will give you the signal when to move.” The speaker was aman of middle hight, but so broad shouldered as to make him look shorter than he really was. Senet you got your barkers ready?’ asked a Come, *T can : 11 “ Barkers be yao) man ent a ae will worth remembering. ence an our motto. But what keeps Jack? is full time he was here.” ; “Ts Jones likély to play any trick on us?” “No, no. He is safe,’ answered a tall, well-dress- ed man, whostood back. ‘But he has to cover u his track. He isto be a victim, you know. Jac and he both have to play their cards nicely. It ts only to see a friend who has been taken suddenly ill. You can’t expect the man to ee Os his arnper for that. Jones is an old coon, e knows the truth of the wise saw, that ‘slow is sure!’ Another step down the street. Be ready, lads.” ‘Isn't it to-night that young Essex is to be mar- ried?” asked one of the party. The broad shouldered fellow turned hastily to- ward him, with a look of anger on his face. ** Who in the blazes told you that lie?” “*Tt’s true,” replied the other, somewhat sur- prised. ‘ At ten o’clock to night.” “Hist!’’ warned the tall man. “Talk about theaters, or the girls, or anything but what you're thinking of. Here he comes.” The stout individual seemed troubled in mind by the information he had just received. He kept morosely silent while the others broke into a loud and desultory conversation. The approaching per- son turned his eyes carelessly toward them, and then walked on, with a slow, regular step. The tall man turned, ** How now, Bob?” he whispered. “It’s our man.” * Allright. You know the plan, boys.” Roger Glindon, for it was no other than he, start- ed forward, closely followed by the man he had call- ed Bob, and whose other name the reader may readily guess, The two others walked at some distance behind, the man with the bag partly concealing it under his coat, The par y pps whore track they were following walked steadily onward, with nc heed to these two loud-talking men behind him. Ree: ching the granite- fronted building of the Provident bark he ascended bi steps of that institution, and ku. *ked upon the oor, His pursuers kept well back, in the s: »dows of the bank steps. The street was deserted u that point, except that a couple of men were pas. ng on the a side of the wide avenue, The bank door opened a crack, “Is it you, Joe? “Ay! ay! Open out, Colly. I suppose yco are ready to go home?” “Ready these two hours,”’ replied the man wiihin, The sovnd of a dropping chain was heard, Ihe door opened, admitting the night watchman. A few words passed between the two men, standing sgt within the open door. They failed to notice that two other men had quietly ascended the bank my and stood in the angle of the door, e day watchman stepped out. His eyes turned inquiringly until they rested upon these two men crouching in the shadows. He laid his hand on the oes which the day watchman was about to’ close. “One moment, Joe,” he remarked, mention. You'll find the—” The sentence was never finished, for at that in- stant he was propelled through the open door with such violence as to send his comrade stagxering breathlessly backward. The same instant two sturdy men sprung into the open hall, and two quick blows fell upon the faces of the surprised watchmen, felling them to the floor. It is true that Colly was) ot bit hard, and fell very easily, but his comrade had too much occupa- — of his own just then to notice this strange act. . Almost simultaneous with their fall a knee was on the breast, a hand at the throat of each, while the other hand pregeed a pistol against their temples, x a word, And it will be the last you ever speak!” Mrhe partly stunned night watchman looked up in the face of the man who held him. It was masked, An instant only he lay in this quiet submission. Then he gave a sudden start, and sought to fling the weight from I» breast. But in vain. The hand at his throat only cYutched the tighter, The cold steel of the pistol seemed tc be pressing into his brain. AS the ane moe 44) ae men Bag A a rtly opene oor, and close sor ehind them. they, too, were masked. a ng the gags and the darbies here.” Colly was making a weak pretense of struggling with his captor. * Be quiet!” cried this man ina savage tone, “or Till put you past stirring. Here! stop this chap’s throat!’ Scarce a minute had elapsed ere both watchmen were gagged and handcuffed, Their captors then forced them to get up, and led them back into the bank. Here they were laid on the marble flcor, bound hands and feet, helpless witnesses of what might happen. The affair had been so neatly man- aged that the night watchman never dreamed cf any collusion between his comrade and the burglars. The four men now gathered in the hall of the benk, out of hearing of the watchmen, for consultation. The front door was closed, but not lecked. lis only fastening was a stout chain, which held it frcm opening beyond a short distance, and which the watchman used when reconnoitering his «cm- panion, “The first act in the aon played, and well layed,’ remarked Roger, in his habitually cool nes. ‘The next depends on our confederate, “T forgot to
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12 Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. SS Jones. We might make our own way into the outer safe, and find some pocket money there, but the key and the combination will save all that trouble.” p “Tt’s too dark here for comfort,” growled Bob. 7 ~ = giim, Tony. The door is too tight to let ‘What time is it?” asked a third, in the voice of George Delorme, as the slide of a dark-lantern was genes ” a stream of light poured across the all. “‘Half-past eight,” answered Roger, as he held his watch in the light, ‘ -_ “ Then where under the sun are our two missing comrades? My fingers are itching to handle the treasure which lies behind those iron doors,” ‘““We must give them a half-hour’s grace yet,” answered Roger. ‘I advised Jack not to waste his powder. He was on the watch till he saw us enter the bank, and then went for Jones. Itcan't be done under an hour. Let’s step back here, gentlemen, and smoke a cigar while we are waiting. Tuere’s nothing like keeping cool and taking the world easy. It never pays to get your blood heated.” With a Jaugh at the coolness of their comrade, they took his advice, taking chairs inside the bank railing, and lifting their heels upon the counters which during the day were so thickly strown with cash in every shape. Lighting their cigars, they en- | tered into a desultory conversation upon the opera, the hotels, ete., as carelessly as if they were within | the walls of a club-room, instead of inside the coun- ters of a bank which they had come to rob, The | bound night-watchman, who was within full hearin of their conversation, was at a loss what to make o this strange behavio.. Nor was his comrade, Coily, much better informed. They had both looked for an immediate assanit upon the safe. The man called T ny had remained at the door, in readiness to catc! » sy signal from without, Fifteen minutes had scar. .ly elapsed before he came hastily back into the bank, accompanied by a slim, tall in- dividual, masked tike the rest. The men withir. the railing sprung to their feet and dropped their c' ‘ars as if they had suddenly burned hem. ‘Jack? and .one?’’ “Yes. You ee—” “Hush!” c¢ ne warningly from Roger. ‘There are too mar ears around here. Where can we get out of ec shot of these watchmen?” “This wa" replied Bob. Heledto oor that opened from the rear end of the bank 0 a richly upholstered and furnished room, “Tt is t » Directors’ room,” he remarked, as he lit the g: . “‘We will take their part. Hold a ig ' siaess meeting for the benefit of the anik,”* He cov.ty seated himself in the President's chair, motioning to the others to beseated. It promised to be such a discount meeting as had never been held in that room before, “What does this mean?’ cried Roger, too anxious to pay any attention to Bob’s pleasantry. ‘‘ Where is your man, Jack?” is voice was sharp and stern, Jack drew a long breath, and looked meaningly around the circle, ‘“Dished!” was his only answer. “How? What is up?” “Just the infernalist bit of bad luck as a party of honest fellows ever had to put up with,’ growled Jack, bringing his fist down migoncae upon the table. ‘‘I won't know whether old Garland smelt a rat or not, but shoot me if he didn’t take the key and the combination away from Jones this very morning. There's the devil to pay and no pitch hot; that’s ali I’ve pot to say about it.’ A feeling of consternation went around the circle of masked burglars. Here was a state of affairs not dreamed of in their deepest calculations, After all their honest efforts, to be baffled in this way! It was too bad! Such is, in mild language, somethfng of the feeli to which they gave expression, though it was no put into quite that form of words. “Tf the key has been taken from Jones it has been given to sume of the other clerks,” declared Bob. “Who has it?” “Paul Essex.” “The blazes!” Aa whistle came from Bob’s lips. He looked a er, “What was the time fixed for that wedding?” “Ten o’clock.” “ And now?” “Tt is just nine.” ‘Paul may not have left his house yet. Fifteen minutes will take us to the widow Essex’s habitation. If we can capture him, carriage and all?” “Well thought of. It is our only chance,” ex- claime Roger, energetically. ‘You, Bob, myself, and George. Too many cooks would spoil the broth. Leave Tony and Jack here to see that all goes right inside, “T’m your man!” cried George, springing hastily , p. “For the street then! We must capture a cab and drive like Jehu to the widow’s en Stig Come on, “ And if we succeed he shall give up the combina- by we have to chop him up piecemeal,” protest- ed George, savagely, as he followed his comrades in their quick mcvement to the door. A hasty observation of the street. The coast was clear. One by one they slipped through the partly | open door and down the granite bat 4 steps into the They vanished into the shadows of the ight elon | CHAPTER XII. AMONG THE WEDDING GUESTS. Ar the maguificent town house of the Garlands everything was luster and brilliancy. The flash of lights, the rich hues of flowers, the quick comin and going of sheening dresses, flashing jewels an bright faces, eave it the appearance of a fete night. to which all the resources of the establishment had been devoted, | It was in fact the wedding night of Grace Delorme, the peen see widow, and the cherished daughter of the rich bank President. Her former attempt at marriage had been signally broken off, Her proud father was determined that it should not be this time, and he defiantly made a parade of the occa- sion. He was not going to show any fear of the enemies of his house, “George Delorme will have to walk in here alive and in Le eer if he wants to claim his bride,” ex- claimed the haughty old gentleman. ‘“ Threatening letters will not answer the purpose. As for Roger | Glindon; if he dares show himself I have given | ear that he be put neck and heels out of the oor,”” “Was it he who brought tho threatening letter | that broke off the marriage before?’ asked the gentleman to whom he was talking. ‘“*Yes, And wrote it, too, confound him! I am | satisfied of that. Well, here we are; open to the world; let George Delorme walk in now, or forever say tee of sight.” | ‘You do not imagine that he is alive?” in a tone _ of surprise. “No, no,” laughed Mr, Garland, ‘Ho is safel, under the ground, I must confess, though, that was a little vexed just now.” ** Ah! how was that?” “T havo just received another letter from a pro- fessed friend, written in rascally English and abomi- nably spelled. It declares that George Delorme is | at this moment in New York, and is holding himself | back till the marriage is performed, that he may | fleece me afterward.’ | ‘And you do not believe it?” ‘Not a word of it. I know that I have two un- scrupulous enemies here, and both of them in love with my daughter. They would do Lag | to hin | der her marriage, Roger Glindon made the effort | before. I fancy that it is Robert Rockett who is making itnow. Very well; they shall have the sat- isfaction of knowing that they have failed.” “But may you not be mistaken, Mr, Garland? May not this warning be true ?” ‘Tt is not true!” cried the old man, with energy. “T know that Georgo Delorme is dead. I don’t ask for any better evidence.” The gentleman to whom he spoke wore a some- what doubtful expression of countenance. He walked the floor uneasily. ‘* Where is the bridegroom?” he asked. “I expect him every minute,” replied Mr. Gar- land. ‘It wasa very ee sentiment with Paul that he wished to pass the last moments before the wedding with his mother since she was too unwell to be —— at the wedding. Very proper indeed. That is a fine young man, sir. young man of unusual character and ability. Iam proud to have him for a son-in-law.” “He is indeed, a_very active, intelligent and worthy young man,’’ chimed in his companion, ‘‘He was to be here sharp by half-past nine. It is five minutes past that hour now. But then, clocks do not always agree.” ** And young lovers are apt to be a little shy. Ma it not be some feeling of embarrassment that mens him back?” “Very likely. I was that way once myself. I faney you, too, have been through the same mill. We have got bravely over all that; but young blood will be foolish yet.” The two old married men laughed jollily together. At the same time, in another p of the house, this delay in the appearance of the bridegroom was not so philosophically received. In one room & eroup of wedding guests talked it over rather sarcastically. In another the prettily attired bridemaids con- versed about it anxiously, but in hie so as not to disturb the bride, who sat silently by herself. She had, in fact, just withdrawn from the chatter- ing § roup, as if to indulge in a moment’s quiet re- ection, ou nape there’s going to be no trouble,”’ whispered one of the anxious girls, a pretty blonde. “ But—” and she shrugged her shoulders meaningly. ‘* Were you at the former wedding, Lucy?” ““Why of course I was. Mercy onus, what an af- fair that was! I never want to be at such another.” “T have my doubts,” rejoined the first speaker. “These things go by threes, you know. Now her. first marriage was—well, not altogether a success. The second effort was a most decided failure. This is the third. Take my word for it, girls, there’s trou- ble ahead,’’ She shook ber pretty head ominously. “Oh! he will be here. It is only five minutes past the time.” “Tf I was in love with such a girl as our dear Grace, I would be five minutes ahead of time instead of behind,” ventured a third speaker, a small, bright- faced girl. -‘Heis a cold lover who lets his wed- ding hour lag.” “ Hush!’’ warned a fourth. ‘‘She will hear you.” The face of the bride, however, indicated that she was paying no attention to the chat of her youn friends. was marked by a peculiar doubt an loom, as if some deep dread was working within er. Her eyes were fixed on the floor, while her | little foot traced carelessly the pattern of the carpet. ** Heigh-ho, Grace!” exclaimed the tall blonde, touching her upon the shoulder. ‘“ Come, sweet, you are to be married to-day. It isa shame in us to t Jeave you by yourself, and— Excuse me,"' she whis- red in her ear, “but I tear you are troubled, love. Pho it is not—” ‘it is nothing,” answered Grace, with an effort to smile, ‘Past events cast their shadows. That is all.” *‘-You aro not worrying because Paul is not here?” ** Oh, no!” cheerily. ‘He will be here, No fear of that, But—I can confide in you?” taint ad so,” answered the other, with an assure smile, f You know these doubts about Ceres Delorme’s death. They trouble me, I canuot help it. What if they should be true; the warnings we have receiv- ed? Oh, Kate! think of the horror of it!” She caught her friend's arm, and hid her face on her breast, The sympathizing friend threw her arms around her, an Da sg her lips to her forehead, a + mas thought that you had absolute proof of his eath?"’ “So it seems! Soitseems! It is not the letters that trouble mc. B tIcannot forgeta certain scene in the garden of our country seat, when young Mr, Rockett appeared before me, and assured me he had lately seen George, alive and well, He seem- ed to speak the truth. I cannot believe that he would seek to injure me.” “But he may have been mistaken, Years have poets know. He was a mere boy, then, He might have seen a face that deceived him,” “Boys have often a good memory of faces,’ re- oined Grace, doubtfully. ‘I fear—I cannot help earing, Kate.” The other girls now gathered around, in anxious aysrpethy: hey supposed that the continued ab- sence of Paul was ali the trouble, In an outer room, where the wedding guests were assembled, tho same topic of conversation ruled. “Look at that!" said one sarcastic looking gentle- man, re with histhumb tothe clock. ‘ ots ter to ten! It’s a bad sign, A late lover makes a cold wedding.”’ “The boy may havo been delayed. He is deep in love, that’s sure.”’ a Delayed? He’s got his feet, if there’s not horses enough to bring him. Why, hang it, nothing less than a steam engine should hold me back in such a “May it not be some accident? A broken leg gay? * There are whole legs enough to bring the news, I hopeif there’s anythmg broken it’s his neck, He deserves it, if he lets anything less stop him.”' “You are too hard, Will.” “T can’t help it. Think of that poor girl. How must she be feeling now? She’s a perfect jewel among girls. And to think of her being put to such a mint of trouble, when tho most 1idiculous specimens of girlhood marry and are happy at short hand. FS aie cad unequal division o. things in s world.” “But what’s all this talk about the old husband turning up?” asked another member of the group. “By Jupiter, if there is a1 ything in that, they had better have the wedding stopped by a broken neck, if nothing short will serve.” hy “Tt’s all tiickery,” remarked another, ‘I saw Paul when he returned from the West. He had the soundest proofs, The man was taken sick and died of the yellow fever. He saw the Pay ok doctor and nurses. He even got statements from the grave- diggers. He traced the man, in fact, from the da he was taken sick to the day he was buried. There's no doubt of that.” ‘*But may not the doctors and nurses have been tricked?” “That wouldn’t be so easy.”’ ‘‘Hillo! five minutes to ten and the bridegroom _ put in an appearance yet. It begins to look ue.” At this moment Mr, Garland entered the room, There was a slightly haggard look upon his face. But his mouth was closed determinedly. “Friends!” he said. ‘ You must bear this delay atiently. Something has bappened to Mr. Essex. e shal) know in a few minutes. I have sent a dis- patch of inquiry.” A silence fell upon the rcom. Several of the ests grouped sympathizingly around the father. Sthers gathered in knots abcut the apartment, with whispered comments on the strange delay. There was a hurried fcotstep in the hall. The door opened, and a servant ushered in a wild look- ing fellow, evidently of Irish extraction. His face was purple with anger. Y “ And is Mister Garland among ye?”’ he cried out. “Yes, yes!” exclaimed the old gentleman, hasten- ing forward, ‘What is wrong? What brings you “It’s the most owdacious business! An’ to think of it’s comin’ to me. Tatrick Riley, as has druv a cab siven years come next June, widout iver a—” “What is the matter?” demanded one of_ the | eseaee fiercely grasping his arm. ‘Has anything ap ened to Mr. Essex?’ y Bere an’ wasn’t I hauled off the coach, and tum- bled in a corner, wid a bit o’ rope round me feet, an’ a pistol to me head? An’ didn’t some_footpads run off wid the coach, Mr, Essex and all? Faith I've come here afoot, as fast as me legs would carry me.’ The persons present looked at each other signifi- cantly. Mr. Garland was the first tospeak. “There was a threat to rob the bank!” ke ejacu- lated, with a hasty, tremulous accent. ‘Paul had the safe-key and the combination! By heavens, friends, I begin to see throvgh it! They have at- tacked the bank, and carried him off to force him to open the safe,” y-
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Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. 13 A moment’s silence of consternation followed. ‘*We must act at once,” cried the sarcastic-look- ing individual, whose face had suddenly become pe and energetic. “Are there carriages at the oor?’ “Yes. Several of them.” “Then, to the bank! To the bank! Arm your- og for we may have a fight before us. To the ankk!’’ The cry was repeated by others. Mr. Garland hastily ran from the room. He returned in a min- ute, with a brace of pistols in his hand, one of which he gave to his energetic friend. “To the bank!” There was a hasty flight to the carriages, CHAPTER XUT. A KIDNAPPED LOVER. Ir we go back a short distance in our story we shall find a carriage standing before the door of Mrs, Essex’s modest residence, its driver sitting stolidly upon the box, apparently not caring whether it be five minutes or five hours before his fare ap- ars. . The night is a cloudy one, and just at the corner there is a deficiency of sp there being no street- lamp within half a block. The streets are almost deserted. Occasionally a person approaches and walks quickly past. A policeman has just strayed slowly along, and turned into a neighboring avenue, praying silently to himself that everything may keep quiet until he gets well out of hearing. Some other men are now approaching, one on the side of the street where the carriage stands, two on the opposite side, The single person checks his pace on coming near the carriage. He lounges slow ms “Good-evening, Pat,’”? he remarks, halting, and resting his hand on the carriage shaft. ‘‘ Gota late fare sain gt eh? Not a theater passenger?’ “At this time o’ night!’ ejaculated the driver, with a sniff of disdain, ‘It'd be late a-goin’ and rarly a-leavin’ I’ve a notion.”’ “Tt’s not a funeral, at any rate.” ‘‘Mebbe it’s most as bad,’’ retorted Pat. ‘Sure a weddin’ is sometimes next door to the graveyard.” “A wedding, eh? From that house?’ ‘*T’'m a-waitin’ for the young gintleman,” answer- ed the driver, as if very willing to talk. “I’m des- ret afeared he'll be late if he don’t. be a-stirring. ere’s a swate Fifth avenue gal a-waitin’ anxious for him.” Pat wasted a wink on the darkness of the night, for the man at the shaft could certainly not see it. person was passing at this moment. A few in- jifferent remarks passed between the two talkers. The steps of the passer were lost in the distance. “TI bet you _a crown, Pat, you don’t drive your fare to the wedding!” “Faith, and I'd like to know what's to hinder ermhis.” The voice was on the other side of him. It was accompanied by a tap on the head with some heavy weapon, that would have knocked him insensible to the eome had he not been held by a firm hand on his shoulder. e The next moment he was roughly sae ed from his seat, and pulled down on the street side of the earriage. He was half stunned by the blow. Two men hustled him hastily across the street and into the opening of a narrow alley opposite. “For the marcy—” began Pat. But his eloquence was suddenly brought to astop by the peculiar sen- wns of a ring of cold iron pressed against his temple. ** Another whimper, and I'll send a bullet through your Soa brain,” was the thrilling whisper in his ear. ‘‘We’re not playing with you, you idiot; bear that in mind.” Pat subsided into silence. Evidently it was not a good time for conversation, The door of the house opposite opened. A person came out, Pat could hear his steps on the pave- ment, and alow ‘‘good-by”’ at the door. It was ac- companied by a sound like a kiss, In a moment the carriage door opened. “ You have the direction?’ came in a fresh, clear voice. “TIndade a that all right.” Pat was half-inclined to fancy it was himself speaking, the voice sounded so like his own. “Then drive fast. I am late now.” The carriage door slammed. The iron hoofs of the horse rung on the stones of the street. Pat struggled in the hands of his captors, and gave a stifled cry. It was an unlucky effort for him, for a heavy blow from the stock of the pistol took him in the temple felling him like a log to the ground. He lay stunn and insensible. Meanwhile the carriage was acquiring rapid head- way. Paul Essex, for he was its occupant, sat back on the cushioned seat, Jost in pleasant thoughts, and paying no heed to the direction in which they were cing. Had not the driver assured him that he Ena the direction? Several corners were quickly turned. At one of them the work of the single horse was considerably added to, the Sarena: coming almost to a halt, and two men clinging on behind. “Stir up there, driver,” cried Paul, aroused from his reverie. ‘‘ We have no time to waste.” “Ay, ay! I'll git you there in good time. Yer honor needn’t be afeared of that.”’ He plied the whip, and the horse darted hastily onward again. But this was certainly not Fifth avenue. A single lance from the c e-window would have told ‘aul that. Even the subdued sound of the earriage- wheels might have told him that they were running in a street railway-track, and not over the stone pavement of the avenue. But he was not in a frame of mind to attend to such particulars. Even the fact that several more corners were turned did not arouse the dreaming lover. “T hope they will not think I am late,” he said to himself, as he shook off these pleasant fancies. “ It was hard to tear myself away from my poor dear mother. But— Ha! what is that?” His eyes had turned carelessly to the carriage- window, and they fell upon the outlines of a build- ing which gave him a strange start. It was surely the granite pile of the post-office? Paul bent hastily from his seat, with his eyes to the windows. Those were not the palatial edifices of Fifth avenue, those massive structures with their walls of fortress-like solidity, their great doorways, and wide windows. He was too well epee with their aspect to be for a moment deceived. It was not into Fifth avenue, but into lower Broadway that the driver had brought him. The ca ge was driving furiously down the latter street. Paul called out for the driver to a This individual, however, had_ become suddenly deaf, and continued to drive with renewed speed. He flung open the door of the carriage and angrily hailed the driver. ‘*Hillo!” he screamed. “ Are you deaf and blind both? Where under the sun are you taking me?” “Th?” came back in tones of astonishment. ‘‘ Did you spake to me, sir?” “I think so, Haul up instantly. Are you crazy?” **It’s this horse, I fear. The wild divil’s got ‘the bit in his teeth. I doubt he’s runnin’ away wid me. Jist hold yerself still for a minute and I'll fetch the creater.”’ — rapid progress of the carriage slowly slack- en ed, “I'm fotching him now, sir,” roared the driver, as e horse slowly came to a halt. Paul looked out. The street seemed deserted. Was that—yes, there was no doubt of it. The ranite “get and pillars of the Provident Bank met 8 eyes He leaped angrily to the pavement. “You confounded idiot!” he began, ina tone of flerce rage. ‘‘Do you know what—” His speech was net checked. Two strong hands had seized his wrists from behind. A smother- ing bandage was flung over his head, blinding ‘and haif-choking him. Ere he could realize what had happened he was — hastily up the steps of the bank and through the door, which opened as if by magic to receive him, and closed as quickly behind him and his captors. “ What luck?” “The best. We've nabbed our man.” Paul made a vigorous effort to escape. But in vain. He was held in an iron grasp. “Rack this way with him.” Despite his struggles he was forced back into the heart of the bank. Then the bandage was taken from his eyes. He looked around. A single glance showed him where he was. That long walnut table covered with papers; those stuffed easy-chairs; the familiar red and blue of the walls and carpet. It was the Direc- tors’ room, The same quick look showed him more. Around him stood a group of masked men, their cavernous eyes bent upon him, each holding a pistol whose muzzle glared perilously upon the astounded pri- soner, A quick gulp of dismay, a tremb! of the lips, a sense of horror in his brain, as ee Mpc es wedding party waiting for his coming, and realized the object for which he had been thus kidnapped. What would be thought of his absence? How should he escape the desperate villains? These two thoughts passed and repassed through his confused brain, as he looked with startled eyes upon the cir- Si of deadly weapons and fierce faces surrounding im, ‘“What means this?’ he managed to articulate. “Take a seat, my dear sir,” said one of the masked men to him, with exaggerated courtesy. “‘We have a little private business with you.” “T prefer to stand.” “We prefer that you be seated.” Paul looked at the grim setting of the mouth and chin of the speaker, and quietly seated himself. “That is clever. Wo don’t want to disturb you, my friend. Asit happens to be your wedding-night, ou will probably prefer not to be detained. There- ore we will only trouble you to hand over the key and the combination of the bank safe. And the sooner the better, for your intended bride may be setting, uneasy about your absence.” This last sentence cut Paul as though they had lunged a knife into his breast. But its taunting fone hardened as wellas wounded him. He was, then, in the hands of a gang of bank robbers? The safety of the treasures of the bank — upon him. It was well. They might take his life, but they could not force him to betray his trust. “To begin with, = will hand over that key,” said a second of the robbers, as he held his pistol within an inch of Paul’s head. The young man, who was rapidly regaining his equanimity, looked with a sarcastic smile upon this weapon, te see you have pistols, gentlemen,” he coolly re- marked. ‘There is no need of taking so much trou- ble to convince me that you are supplied with an armory of useless weapons.” “‘ Useless!” “Precisely. Suppose you shoot me, what then? oO You cannot get the desired combination out of my dead body. There is no quicker way of defeating your little financial scheme than by using one of hose threatening toys. Suppose, then, you give up that part of your game?” The men looked at each other. A laugh broke coo the lips of one, as he thrust his pistol into his ocket. Pe Devilish cool,” he muttered. ‘Maybe we can find other ways of Myton Fa. our fine youngster.” ** Another point of some importance is this,’’ con- tinued Paul. ‘“ Your enterprise is very laudable, and. has been very neatly conducted. You have made one little error, however, in getting hold of the wrong man. I am happy to inform you that I am not the keeper of the key. It is in the care of an- other of the clerks of the bank.” “Who?” asked the tall man who occupied the President’s chair. “That I decline to tell,” with a smile of triumph. “We might find means of making you tell, if we were as blind as you vay = was the sneering an- swer. ‘ But as we happen to know that Harry Jones is the name of the clerk in question you can save yourself that trouble.” Paul started with surprise. “And as we further know that the key was taken from Jones and given into your care three days ago we concluded not to trouble Joves on this inverest- ing occasion,” ‘aul’s surprise increased, These fellows were not to be so easily tricked. “You are mistaken,” he replied, with an effort at coolness, ‘TI have not the key.” “Search him!” came from the lips of the tall man, Paul sprung to his feet, and seized with a desper- ate clutch the chair on which he had been seated. ‘“*T will brain the villian that dares come near me!" But what chance has one unarmed man against five? He struck a fierce blow with the chair at a man who approached him from the front. But he was instantly seized from behind, and despite his techn les a thorough search of his pockets was quickly made. He groaned in spirit. He had carefully put the key in his pocket a half bour before, with the object of giving it to Mr. Garland. Was this effort to do _ ad going to turn against the interest of the nk? Paul set his teeth firmly as he felt the fingers of one of the villains close upon the key. But that was in his pocket, The combination was in his mind. They might find it more difficult to search the latter than the former, “Here it is!” erled one of the searchers, holding up asmall, peculiar key. “Are you sure?” “Yes, You don’t want to look at the key. Louk in the chap’s face for evidence.” Paul bit his lips. He had let his face betray him. The tall man at the head of the table again spoke. “And now, —- man, you will save yourself trouble if you quist y hand over that combination. We are bound to have it, so you may as well pass it ie quietly as have it drawn out of you by red-hot ncers,”’ Paul shuddered at the implacable tone of the speaker. But his resolution was rot shaken. He would die rather than betray the bank. ace wm never give you the combination,” he sternly uttered, The tall man looked at him for a minute in silence, ‘Heat the irons,’’ he said. An ominous silence followed, Five, ten, fifteen minutes passed. Three of the robbers still sur- rounded him in grim silence. Two bad gone out into the bank, in response to the order of their leader, It was difficult for the ous man to pre- serve his coolness during this sullen silence, with the thought of what preparations were making. The pe li was as great a torture as that which was to follow At the end of this time the two men return bearing with them a small charcoal furnace, heate to a white heat, and with two red-hot irons resting on the flaming coals. “Off with his “Seize him!’ cried the leader. shoes and pocringy At this dread order Paul sprung from his seat. In an instant one of his assailants was felled to the floor. The maddened young man lea upon him, wrested the pistol from his belt, and endeavored to rise with it in his hand. But.a hard blow on the head flung him, half stunned, to the floor, Ere he could recover he was firmly pinioned by strong hands, the shoes and stockings were wrested from his feet, and he lay prostrate and helpless on the floor, his bare soles, exposed to the white hot irons, which lay in the fire which one of the men was keep- ing hot with the wind from a bellows. The combination.” ‘Never! cried Paul, determinedly. “Very well, gentlemen. The irons then.” Paul shuddered as he saw the gleaming iron lifted from the fire, and approached to his bare feet. CHAPTER XIV. A FATAL BULLET, Aw intense, unbearable pain shot through Paul Essex’s frame. At first a faint sensation of heat, which rapidly increased until it became a scorching and terrible torture. His devilish torfientors were bringing the iron inch by inch toward his feet, its fierce heat filling his whole frame with torment. “The combination?’ demanded the cool villain in e chair, Paul bit his lips in agony, and made a desperate ‘ort to escape from his tormentore. Tt was in
Page 14
14 vain. They held him in an iron grasp. . His strug- gles only exhausted his strength. Nearer and nearer came that dreadful instrument of torture. He could feel the skin of his feet scorch- ing under its terrible influence. “The combination?” “Never! I will die first!” Blood was running from his lips, which he had bitten in the extremity of pain. “Ah! he continues obdurate, The iron is getting cold, I fear. Try the other.” The whole room was brightly illuminated by the gleam of the iron which was now taken from the fire, and brought near to the scorching feet of the unhappy captive. A ery of agony trembled on his lips, but it was repressed, only a smothered sigh es- caping. : At this signal of distress one of the burglars, a short, stout figuce, who had stood for the last few minutes quiet against the neighboring wall, started astep forward. It was but a momentary impulse, however. He immediately resumed his position, though an acute eye might have seen that a storm was raging within him. The iron came nearer and nearer to the flesh of the writhing victim. “The combination?” spoke again that cold voice from the chair. The first thought in Paul’s mind was one of des- perate resistance. They might kill him, but they could not make him betray his trust. But this thought was instantly followed by another, which shot porous his brain like a flash of light. , The wedding hour was past. His absence would be a mystery to the guests, and a distress to the bride and her father. What would they think? Why had Mr. Garland given him the key to the safe? Bevause he suspected a plot to rob the bank. And now that the keeper of the key had not appeared on such an occasion as his wedding—what would the shrewd bank President naturally imagine? “ They will suspect what has really happened!” he said to himself, ‘They will haste to my rescue, Will it be too late? I must gain time, I must de- ceive these wretches.” “The combination?” came again in those unswerv- ing tones. ‘Yes! yes!’ cried Paul, in a voice of agony. He had no- need to counterfeis. ‘Remove that dread- fuliron! I will give you the word!” The tallman made a sign. The iron was with- drawn from his blistered and agonized feet, “The combination?” It is—it is—the word is—Plant.”’ The word seemed forced from his lips by inward torment. * Piunt. Oh, release me! You know now all that I can tell you!” Those who held Paul loosened him. He made an effort to rise, but the pain of his scorched feet was too great. He fell again with a groan to the floor. “Try the word,” commanded the leader. “If he is lying to us it will be the worse for him,” Paul shuddered at the deadly malignity of the tone in which these words were spoken. Three of the burglars left the room, among them the stout man who had seemed so moved by the scene of torture. Two others remained, and, pistol in hand, kept guard over the nelplens prisoner, Out in the banking room had been deathly silent. The two watchmen, who lay bound and gagged on the floor, waited through minutes that seemed hours in this dread gloom. They had heard the quick movements of the | They had seen them hastily enter the | burglars, bank bringing a blinded captive with them. Then the lights ha Stanpneate’s all noises ceased; for long, long minutes they waited in silence for the n scene in this dread drama. But now a flash of light shot across the room. Footsteps sounded on the marble floor. They heard a peculiar fumbling sound, as if an effort was being made to open the safe, For some ten minutes it continued, an occasional curse marking the impatience of the burglars. “ By all the fiends, he has lied to us!” cried a clear voice, ‘ Not the first letter of the word works. The devil himself couldn’t open the safe with that key and that combination,” “Plant, eh?’ growled another. ‘‘The cunnin hound is setting upa plant onus. Fetch him ou here and make open it himself. If he can’t do it sd the blue blazes, we'll scorch his nose instead of his er next time. We'll spoil the boy’s pretty face or him.” Paul, though prety. step seemed to be on hot needles, was fo: ad to enter the bank, and com- manded, with a pistol at his head, to open the safe. He kneeled down and fumbled at it for some minutes. “Hurry !”’ cried the tall ruffian. ‘‘Wecan’t spend all night on your motions. If you are playing with us, py the gods you shall be sorry for it!’ “The key does not work right,’’ stammered Paul. * That is combination that was given me, but it won't work.” “Tt won't, eh? Maybe we can mend it,” came the savage voice. ‘Stir up the fire there, Joe, and bring me a hot iron here. Let us see if we can’t make this key work.” “You shall not make me work it!” cried Paul flercely, leaping to his feet, and flinging the key with a thud against the ppponte wall of the bank. ‘ If you burngme by inches I will not open the safe or you. “Allright, my jolly cove; we shall see.—Go get that key, some one.’ Paul was again seized and stretched upon the floor. He strugeled with all his strength, but he | was like a clild ir those strong hands, He yelled Bob aver w = nn re ne for help, but his eries fell back baffled from the thick granite walls of the bank. He was helpless in the hands of his captors. The man who had been sent for the iron now re- turned. The instrument of torture in his hand was at a white heat.. The gleam that came from it dimmed the dull glow of the lantern which had be- fore lit up the room. ‘“We will see if he cannot remember the word better, lads,” said the leader. ‘‘ Put the iron to his pretty, blooming cheeks. By heavens, we will make im an object that his waiting bride won't recog- nize if be continues obstinate. But there’s no use to waste time. Hold it to his eyes. Blind the de- termined fool.” “No, no!’ cried Paul, in terror. “You don’t know who you are dealing with, boy. We are not children for you to play with. Hold it to his eyes.” The merciless wretch who held the iron was on the point of doing so, when the stout man, who had ap- yeared to restrain himself with difficulty, sprung orward and caught his arm. ‘* By the Lord! you shall not! I will not stand by and see it!” “The. fiends you won't!” yelled the leader, furi- ously, as he leaped over Paul’s body, and caught this interfering person by the arm. ‘‘ Hang your soft heart, do you think you can come in now and spoil our game?” ‘* You shall not, I say!’’ persisted the other, as he tore his arm loose. ‘* You may scorch the fool, but you shall not blind him while I stand by!” “ Why, you meddling hell-hound—” Tho sentence was never finished. At that in- stant there came a furious surge upon the front door of the bank. It was followed by a fierce rat- tling of the iron valves, aud by a hubbub of loud voices. The robbers looked at each other with startled eyes. The two who held Paul sprung hastily to their feet. They who had seemed on the point of a desperate struggle drew back from each other. He who held the iron let it fall with a ringing sound up- on the marble floor. The blows and cries continued. The door had not been locked, and was only held by the chain. It was a question how long this would stand such a furious assault. “Perdition!” we are lost!” cried the tall villain. ‘The alarm has been given. There will be a mob at the door in five minutes. Let us break for free- dom, and fight our way through.” “No, no!” cried the stout man. “Follow me. There is a rear entrance. We can escape that way while they are working at the front.” ; Paul had sprung to his feet, heedless of the pain of his wounds, iH pons help!” he screamed. ‘Break in the door! ‘o the rear! ‘To the rear! They are es- eaping!”’ “Devil burst your infernal throat!” yelled the tall villain. ‘Take that for a remembrance!” He seized the fallen iron and flung it at Paul with all the force of his strong right arm. But. it found a different qui from the one in- tended. Paul stooped and evaded the blow, but his stout defender, who stood immediately behind him, received it with all its force upon his forehead. He went down like an ox before the ax of the butcher. ‘*Ha! by all. that’s holy, Bob is done for!’ came the loud cry. ‘‘Dead as a door nail!’ as he lifted the arm of the prostrate man and let it fall again with a heavy thud. ‘Snatch him, boys! It will never do to leave the body here! Shoulder the i devil, or all that’s left of him. We will put him where the cops will never find him, if they wear out their souls in trying.”’ Two of the burglars obeyed this energetic order. In a moment the lifeless form was raised upon their broad shoulders, and they were in full flight for the rear door of the bank, as rapidly at least as they could move with their heavy burden. The noise in front increased. With a cry of rage Paul sprung upon his tall assailant and grappled with him, snatching a pistol with which his hand came into contact. The athletic villain in an instant tore himself loose, knocking his youthful assailant to the floor with onesweep of his musculararm. He followed the others in their flight. Paul, nervous, desperate, beside himself with rage and pain, rose on his elbow and pointed the piso which he had captured toward the retreating Vi ns, “Orack! crack! crack!’ shot after shot rung with a thundering echo through the vaulted rooms of the bank. One of them was followed by a loud cry, and a crashing fall to the floor. Then all became silent, save the increasing uproar from the-front. The villains had vanished from the bank Heedless of the intense pain in his feet, Paul ran hastily to the iron doors, which yet resisted every effort to force them open. ; “Hold!” he cried, “I will loosen the chain. The villains have escaped by the rear door. Some of ou er around the corner street. You may head em off." : As he spoke he quickly loosened the chain and flung wide the strong doors. Mr. Garland was the first to crowd into the open- ing. ‘* My dear Paul!’ he exclaimed, seizing the young man in his arms, ‘Safe! safe! We were in time, thank God!” “Just in time,’ answered Paul, with hearéfelt thankfulness, “I fear I could not have withstood them much longer,” SR AE A 3 SNR Aa Ra 5 a asa Rockett, the Cracksman. — rboy! But why do you walk so?” > “They. have urnt my feet into blisters,” replied ‘au “Bless us! What have you had to go through with! Here! help me! We must carry this poor fellow back and see what the devils have done to him,” While this conversation had proceeded the others had rushed back into the bank, and swarmed over itsevery room and passage. Mr. Garland was met with a torrent of information, as he came back into the bank, helping to carry Paul. “The two watchmen are lying there, bound and gagged!” cried one. ‘“ANl is safe, They failed in their efforts,” an- nounced a second, ’ “ And one of them has come to grief,” exclaimed athird. “He lies on the floor there, masked, but gions dead. <A pistol ball bas struck him in the eart.”’ “They have escaped,’’ cried a fourth, who had just entered. ‘They had a carriage in waiting. We were just in time to see them drive off. Pursuit was useless. Their horse ran like a racer.” “Let us see that dead villain,” and Mr. Garland followed out into the rear of the room. An involuntary tremor shook bis frame as he gazed on the lifeless form, There was something in the figure, in the visible part of the face. ‘“‘Remove the mask,” Mr. Garland gazed for an instant upon the blood- less face, and then a loud ery came from his lips. “That face! My God! can it be? It is the manT believed dead! It is George Delorme!” CHAPTER XV. WHAT BECAME OF EOB ROCKETT? Pauw Essex lay in delirium for a week. Thenerv- ous strain upon him had been too great, and a natural revulsion followed. His feet were badly but injured, and the intense pain aris- elped to keep up the delirious fever not dangerous! ing from them in his blood, Thus the search which went on for the burglars could not be aided by any information from the per- sop most capable of describing them. That Bob Rockett had been engaged in it Mr. Garland felt sure. But to be sure of a thing is not evidence that would be accepted in court; and besides Boh Rockett had disappeared. ; . The police were wide awake in their search for him. Every imaginable haunt where he could be concealed, all his possible associates, were thorough- ly investigated, but in vain. They were utterly at sea, If he was still in the city he was too shrewd to be easily discovered. j Several arrests were made of parties suspected by the authorities, but they were all released after a close examination. There was no evidence against them. It would be difficult to describe the feeling which existed in the Garland mansion. Mr. Garland and hisdaughter Grace felt as if they had been walking on very thin ice, with an immeasurable gulf be- neath them. After all their positive assurance George Delorme had still been living! If the mar- riage had taken place as designed, what a terrible misfortune it would have proved. f And, too, Bob Rockett’s word was now justified ; he had, all the time, been Grace’s best friend, an had tried to save her even at the hazard of his own man. To @race ‘the postponement of the marriage was an unspeakable relief. On the wedding night she had waited like one with a millstone upon her head hoping that all would be well, yet her heart filled with an overwhelming fear. She felt like one being dragged to the altar as an unwilling sacrifice to the desires of her father and her lover, and the relief was as if an immense weight had been lifted from her soul. ‘All her old love for George Delorme was suddenly converted into hatred and scorn. It was true then? He had not died, but had deserted her. He had been waiting until she should be married so as to make her buy his silence, Oh! the despicable wretch! Could she feel for his sudden and terrible death? No, it was a just retribution. she hovered like an angel of merey over the couch of her delirious lover, happy that now at least he was hers, and every obstacle removed. The death of George Delorme was no aid to the olice in their search, He was utterly unknown to hem in the lists of ated nor could they trace any of his associates in the city. : It is true that a woman professing to be his wife had made her appearance, and had fallen into a frenzy of grief over the dead . The cold- natured officers themselves could not look with dry eyes upon the suffe , and listen unmoved. to the cries of anguish from this beautiful woman, for her face was one of a remarkable and voluptuous charm. , : ; The body was peotily given up to the grieving wife, as tus declared herself to be, though many dubious looks — between the officers as they tried to make this agree with the story that this was the long missing husband of Grace Delorme. With true business meth ee followed the wife, and set a corpse to the home of the dist watch upon this habitation, hoping to discover something by investigating the sieows to this house of death and sorrow. But this effort proved of as little avail as the others. It is true that several former acquaint- ances of George Delorme called at the house, moved
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by a natural feeling for one with whom they had once been intimate, despite his recent lapse into crime. Possibly, too, the fame of the remarkable beauty of the sorrowing wife had some influence in determining these visits. For these people were soon found to be of highly respectable character, it being out of the question that the could have had any connection with the at- tempted bank aoObetee: Among them was wer Glindon, a person well known to be a fast young man about town, yet of reputed wealth and good connections, and of course above suspicion. “‘Glindon has the. name of being a lady-killer,”’ remarked a sarcastic officer. ‘I fancy he is much more anxious to wipe away the tears of the pretty wife, than to grieve over the dead husband.” Nor did their idea seem wrong, for Glindon was certainly closeted with the unhappy woman, and doing his best to bring her back to what he called a reasonable frame of mind. “You have your future to think of, Marie,” he remarked, drawing his chair close beside hers and looking with sympathy into her moist eyes. ‘You should not give way so. Poor fellow, I know you feel his loss bitterly. But life must be thought of as well as death.” “Yes, yes! Lknow! I know!” she replied, hardly restraining herself from sobbing. ‘‘ But—oh, it is too soon to think of anything so wor I loved him with my whole soul, and he has been taken from me,’’,- Her eyes overflowed with tears. “But grief, will not mend it. He is gone. You have the life before you to think of.” “The life before me? What shall that be?” Her eyes flashed through their tears. “This is the first crime, beyond—beyond mere gambling, that poor George ever tried—and see, he must die, while his ass' tes esca, Oh! I could turn on them all! I could nore them. all! They have led him to his ea ‘Not me, I hope,” answered Roger, coolly. “TI did my best to save him. And I have not cowardly deserted h'm in death.” “That is true,” she gratefully replied. ‘ You have been areal friend to me, I shall not forget it. But—but that spectacled villain! If I but knew where to find him! I hate him! I shall make it my business to discover him, and reveal him to the poe. I charge him with the death of my dear usband!”’ “Poor chap, I hardly think he will trouble you or the police any further.” “What do you mean?” “Why, of course you know that George Delorme was not the only one who got hurtin that business. If poor George stopped a bullet, your friend with the spectacles stopped a hot iron that was quite as bad a thing to get in the way of.. Don’t. ask me where he is, for these are things on which we are sworn to secrecy. I can only say that a coffin entered a certain house on a certain avenue, not many days ago, and that it did not come out nee I only hope our sbarp-eyed police may not find him floating about on the. surface; but, I have my fears of it,” and he shrugged his shoulders significantly. But, the police made no such discovery. If the coffin was given to the waters of East river they never revealed it,to the gaze of the Argus-eyed de- tectives, or to the omnipresent. ‘* wharf rats’ who prowl along the water front of the great city like night vermin, fact, the whole gang of bank robbers aypersed to defy the efforts of the police. Not a clew had been left behind them, and every apparent trail failed to lead to any satisfactory termination. And as we have said, it.was impossible to trace the connections of George Delorme.. All that could be found were the es of his. earlier life, and they were all wealthy and respectable men. It is true that a Pie suspicion was felt in re- gard to Roger Glindon, when the various facts came out that he was a friend to both George Delorme and Bob Rockett, and that he had lately run through his fortune ina life of dissipation, and almost re- duced himself to poverty, : But a suspicion with no definite facts to base it up- onis not proof that would be acceptable in a court of law, and his evident attention to the pretty widow could be accounted for on other grounds that of association in crime. So the attempted: burglary continued a mystery. On the recovery of Paul Essex, the authorities heard the story of the fall of one of the s ed men, and his being carried out of the bank for dead. This explained certain mysterious blood-spots which had been found upon the bank floor, and the officers of the law began to fancy that Bob Rockett had indeed escaped them forever—that the grave had become his safe place of refuge. m “T am sorry enough that. it happened 80, oom, said Paul, with much feeling. ‘* There is no doubt that Rockett was the man, and little doubt. but_that the leader of the gang would have destroyed m eyes but for his interference. It is dreadful to thin that he has diedyin my defense, yet no man eould havo received such:a blow and lived. “Tt is. terrible,” replied .Grace, with a shudder. “Poor fellow, he had chosen a life of crime, or perhaps been driven. to it, But I know that there was good in him, And TI hope'that his wickedness will be overbalanced by his good. He done. so much for me—for both of us, Paul. re, three months‘after these events, a wed- dime ps ty gathered in the Garland mansion, with Paul tasex atid Grate Delorme as the happy pair who were madeione without further fear of inter- ruption, Only onecloud rested, upon the horizon of Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. their young lives—that he who had done so much to save them from misery and crime was not upon the earth to receive their thanks. “But, perhaps it is better as it is,” said Paul. “He was but be a the threshold of crime. If he had lived, he might have plunged into its depths.” <h hardly know,” she pensively replied. ‘‘I must believe that circumstances conspired to drive him into crime. Never have Il believed him bad at heart, or irreclaimable. Would that he had lived, for with the light which I now have I see that I might have influenced him for good. Poor Bob!” Dear Grace! She little guessed that she would be called upon to exert that influence to its utmost. THE END. 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Dialogues No, Nine, Dialogues No. Twenty-two. Dialogues No. Ten, Dialogues No, Twenty-three Dialogues No. Eleven, Dialogues No. Twenty-four, Dialogues No. Twelve. Dialogues No. Twenty-five. Dialogues No. Thirteen. | Dialogues No. Twenty-six, Dialogues No. Twenty-seven. 15 to 25 Dialogues and Dramas in each book. These volumes have been = ared with especial reference to their availabilily in all school-rooms, They are adapted to schools with or without the fur- niture of a stage, and introduce a range of charac- ters suited to scholars of every grade, both male and female. It is fair to assume that no volumes yet offered to schools, at any price, contain so many available and useful dialogues and dramas, serious and comic. Dramas and Readings. 164 12mo Pages. 20 Cents. For Schools, Parlo s, Entertainments and the Am- ateur Stage, gies Original Minor Dramas, Comedy, Faree, D.ess Pieces, Humorous Dialogue and Burlesque, by 1 oted writers; and tations and Readings, new ond dard, of the greatest celebrity and interest. Ed by Prof. A. M. Russell, DIME HAND-BOOKS. Young People’s Series. Brapie’s Dime Hanp-Books ror Youna Propix cover a wide range of subjects, and are especially adapted to their end. They constitute at once the cheapest and most useful works yet put into the market for popular circulation. Ladies’ Letter-Writer. Book of Games, Gents’ Letter-Writer, Fortune-Teller, Book of Etiquette, Lovers’ Casket, Book of Verses, Ball-room Companion. Book of Dreams. Book of Beauty, Hand-Books of Games. Branpue’s Dime Hanp-Books or GAMES AND PopurAR Hapn-Books cover a variety of subjects, and are es- pecially — to their end, andbook of Summer Sports, Book of Croquet, Chess Instructor. Cricket and Football, Guide ‘to Swimming. Base-Ball Player. Handbook of Winter Sports. Manuals for Housewives. Brapie’s Dive Famtty Srrtes aims to supply a class of text-books and manuals fitted for every per- son’s use—the old and the young, the learned and the unlearned. They are of conceded value. 1. Cook Book. 4. Family Physician. 2. Recipe Book. Dressmaking and Mil- 8. Housekeeper’s Guide. linery, Lives of Great Americans Are presented.complete and: authentic biographies of many of the men who have added luster to the “ei c by their lives and. deeds. ..'The series em- races: I.—George Washington. || VIT.—Dav ° 1—John Paul annie Vil Tend Sieun Til,—Mad AnthonyWayne}] IX.—Kit Carson. X.—Tecumseh, IV,—Ethan. Allen. V.—Marquis de Lafay-| XI.—Abraham Lincoln. XTT,—Pontiac. ette. VI.—Daniel Boone: XIII.—Ulysses 8. Grant. The above publications for sale by all newsdealers or will sent, seal on receipt of price, by & ADAMS, 98 Wiiuram Sr,, N.Y. 7 Yachting and Rowing. Riding,and Driving. Book, of Pedestrianism,
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1 Deadwood Dick, Tue Price ov THe Roan, By Edward L. Wheeler. ellowstone Jack. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. Kansas King; or, THe Rep Riant Hann. By Buffalo Bill (Hon. Wm. F. Cody). 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters. By Captain Mayne Reid and Captain Frederick Whittaker. 5 Vagabond Joe, THE Youna WANDERING JEW; or, G@ FoR A Lecacy. By Oll Coomes, 6 Bill Biddon, Trapper. By E. S. Ellis. 7 The Flying Yankee; or, Taz Ockan OvT- cast. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 8 Seth Jones. By Edward §, Ellis. 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen. 10 Nat Todd. By E. §. Ellis. 11 The Two Detectives; or, Taz Forrunrs or A Bowery Girt. By Albert W. Aiken. 12 Gulliver’s Travels. By Dean Swift. 13 The Dumb Spy. By Olf Coomes. 14 Aladdiny or, THe WonperruL Lamp, 15 The Sea-Cat. By Captain Fred. Whittaker. 16 Robinson Crusoe. (27 Illustrations.) 17 Ralph REoy, rae Boy Buccaneer; or, Tar 18 1 2 3 Fouertive Yacut. By Col. Prentiss In m. Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven Voyages. 9 The Phantom Spy. By Buffalo Bill. 20 The Double Daggers; or, Deapwoop Dicxk’s Deviance. By Edward L. eeler. 21 The Frontier Angel. By Edward 8. Ellis. 22 The Sea Serpent; or, THz Boy Rosinson Crusoz. By Juan Lewis. 23 Nick o° the Night; or, Tax Boy Spy or "76, ee C. Harbaugh. 24 Diamond Dirk. By Colonel P. Ingraham. 25 The Boy Captain. By 4 Starbuck. 26 Cloven Hoof, rue Burra.o Demon; or, THE Borper Voururés. By Edward L. Wheeler. 27 Antelope Abe, THz Boy Guipz. Oll Coomes. 28 Buffalo Ben, THe Prince or THE Piston; or, Dkapwoop Dick mm Diseuise. E. L. Wheeler. 29 The Dumb Page. By Capt. F. Whittaker. 30 Roaring Ralph Rockwood, THz Recx- Less RanceR. By Harry St. —T, 31 Keen-Knife, Privcz or THE intEs, By Oll Coomes. 82 Bob Woolf, tHe Borper Rvrrian; or, THE Girt Drap-SHor. By Edward L. Wheeler. 33 The Ocean Bloodhound}; or, Tom Rep PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEES. By 8. W. Pierce. 84 Oregon Sol; or, Nick Wuirrizs’ Boy Spy. Sey t. J. F. C. Adams, 35 Wild Ivan, Tax Boy Ciaupe Dovat; or, Tae BROTHERHOOD oF DEATH. By Ed. L. Wheeler. 36 The Boy Clown. By nk §. Finn. 387 The Hidden Lodge. ByT. 0. Harbaugh. 38 Ned Wylde, THe Boy Scour. By Texas Jack. 89 Death-Face, Tae Derzctrivz; or AND Love In New York. By Edward L. Wheeler. 40 Roving Ben. A Story or a Youna Amenri- cAN Wxo WANTED To SEE THE WorLD. Marshall. 41 Lasso Jack. By Oll Coomes., 42 ‘The Phantom Miner; or, Dxapwoop Dick’s Bonanza. By Edward L. eeler. 43 Dick Darling, THe Pony Express Romer. - Capt. Frederick Whittaker. 44 KRattling Rube. By Harry St. George. 45 Old Avalanche, THE Great ANNIHILATOR; or, WILD EpDNA, THE Gin Bricanp. E. L. Wheeler. 46 Glass Eye, Tue Great SHor oy THe West. 4 Capt. J. F.C. A 3 47 Nightingale Nat. By T. 0. Harbaugh. 48 Black John, Tue Roap-AGeEnt; or, Taz Our LAws’ RETREAT. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 49 Omaha Ol), THE MasKep Terror: or, Drap- “woop Dick In DanaEr. By Edward L. Wheeler. 60 Burt Bunker, rue Trapper. C. E. Lasalle, 561 The Boy Rifles. By Archie ©. Irons. 52 The White Buffalo. By C. E. Lasalle. 53 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., Tax Boy Puenrx; or, THroveH To Deata. By Edward L. Wheeler. 54 Ned Hazel, TH« Boy Trapper; or, THE PHAn- ToM Princess. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams. 55 Deadly = Eye, Tae Unknown Scout; or, THz BRANDED BroTHERHOOD. By Buffalo Bill. 56 Nick Whiffles? Pet. Capt. J. F. OC. Adams. 57 Deadwood Dicks Eagles; or, Taz Parps oF FLoop By Edward L. Wheeler, 68 The Border King. By Oll Coomes. 59 Old Hickory. By Harry St. George. 60 The White Indian. Capt. J. F. 0. Adams. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, Taz Rep Rote Tram. By Edward L. Wheeler. 62 The Shadow Ship. By Col. P. Ingraham. 63 The Red Brotherhood, W. J. Hamilton. 64 Dandy Jack. By T. 0. Harbaugh. 35 Hurricane Bill. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 86 Single Hand. By W. J. Hamilton. 67 Patent-leather Joe. By Philip 8. Warne. 68 Border Robin Hood, By Buffalo Bill 69 Gold Rifle, rae SHarpsHooren; or, Tax Bor DxeTEcTIvE oF THE BLacK Ranca. by Wheeler. 70 Old Zip’s Cabin; or, Tae Grexennorn oF THE Woops. By J. F. C. Adama, 71 Delaware Dick. By Oll Coomes. 72 Mad Tom Western, Tae Tzxan Ranorr; or, OF THE Prarriz. By Hamilton. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck} or, Catawmry JANE, THE HEROINE oF WHoop-Up. By Wheeler. 74 Hawk-eye Harry. By Oll Coomes, 75 The Boy Duelist; or, CRUISE Sxa-Wouy.” By Col. Prenties Inprohee —— 76 Abe Colt, raz OCrow-Kuee; or, Taz Great Ficstne oF THE WEST. By A. W. Aiken, /BEADLE’S | HALF ~ 77 Corduroy Charlie, raz Boy Bravo; or, Derapwoop Dick’s Last Act. By E. L. Wheeler. 78 Blue Dick. By Captain Mayne Reid. 79 Sol Ginger, Giant Trapper, By A.W. Aiken. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nuacet Nep, THe Knieut OF THE GuLCH. By ward L. Wheeler. 81 Lightning Jo. By Captain J. F.C. Adams. 82 Kit Haretoot, THz Woop-Hawk; or, OLp PowpER-Fack AND His Demons, By Harbaugh. 83 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. By Oll Coomes, 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosrsup Ros ON Dp. By Edward L. Wheeler, 85 Buck Buckram; or, Bess, THz FEMALE TraprpeR, By Captain J. F. C. Adams. 86 Dandy Rock. By G. Waldo Browne. 87 The Land Pirates. By Capt. Mayne Reid. 88 Photograph Phil, THe Boy S.ievrs; or, BUD Rosp’s REAPPEARANCE. By E. L. Wheeler, 89 Island Jim. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 90 The Dread Rider. By G. Waldo Browne. 91 The Captain of the Club} or, Tax Youna Riva, ATHuETes. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 92 Canada Chet} or, OLD ANACONDA IN SITTING Buiu’s Camp. By Edward L. Wheeler. 93 The Boy Miners. By Edward 8. Ellis. 94 Midnight Jack, THE Roap-Aaent; Tue Boy Trapper. By T. C. Harbaugh. 95 The Rival Rovers. Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. 96 Watch-Eye, THe S#Apow; or, ARABS AND ANGELS or A Great City. By E. L. Wheeler. 97 The Outlaw Brothers, By J. J. Marshall. 98 Robin Hood, Tae Ovtiawep Eart; or, THE Merry MEn Grexnwoop. Prof. Gildersleeve. 99 The Tiger of Taos; or, Wimp Karr, Danny Rocxk’s ANGEL. By George Waldo Browne. 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A STRANGE STROKE FoR LiserTy. By eeler. 101 Jack Harkaway in New York. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 102 Dick Dead-Eye, THe Boy Sxuvaacier; or, Tue CRUISE OF THE VIXEN. By Col. Ingraham, 103 The Lion of the Sea. By Col. Delle Sara. 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device or, THE Sian or. THe DovusiEe Cross. By E. L. Wheeler. Old Rube, Tae Hunrrr. Capt. H. Holmes. Old Frosty, raz Guivz. By T. C. Harbaugh. One-Eyed Sim. By James L. Bowen. Daring Davy, THE Youne Brear-KiusR; or, Tue TRAIL OF THE BorpER WoLF. H. St. George, 108 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective, By Edward L. Wheeler. 110 The Black Steed of the Prairies, A ‘hrilling Story of Texan Adventure. By Bowen. 111 The Sea-Devil. By Col. P. Ingraham. 112 The Mad Hunter. By Burton Saxe. 113 Jack Hoyle, Tae Youna Sprcurartor; or, THe Roap Tro Fortung, By Ed. L. Wheeler. The Black Schooner. Roger Starbuck. The Mad Miner}; or, Danpy Rocx’s Doom. By George Waldo Browne. 116 The Hussar Captain; or, rox Hermir or Hew.i-GarTe. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, THE Sport DETECTIVE; or, THz AD-AGENT’s DavGuTeR. Wheeler. 118 Will Somers, THe Boy Detective. Morris. 119 Mustang Sam, Tae Era oy THE Panis. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 120 The Branded Hand. By Frank Dumont. 121 Cinnamon Chip, THe Gre. Sport; or, Tae GoLpEN Ipon or Mt. Rosa. Ed. L. Wheeler. 122 Phil Hardy, tnx Boss Boy; or, Taz Mys- TERY OF THE STRONGBOW.. By Charles Morris. 123 Kiowa Charley, THe Ware MustTanacEr. By T. C. Harbaugh. 124 Tippy, THe Texan. By George Gleason. 125 Bonanza Bill, Mier. By Ed. L. Wheeler. 126 Picayune Pete; or, Nicopremus, Tar Doe Detective. By Charles Morris, 127 Wild-Fire, Boss or rH: Roap. By Dumont. 128 The Young Privateer. By H. Cavendish. or, 105 106 107 114 115 129 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, Tae Guost or GorGcon’s Guicon, Ed. L. eeler. 130 Detective Dick. By Charles Morris. 131 The Golden Hand} or, Danny Rocx To THE Rescue. By George W. Browne. 132 The Hunted Hunter. By Ed. 8, Ellis. 133 Boss Bob, THe Kino or THe Boorsusces: or, THE PAWNBROKER’s Plot. Ed. L. Wheeler. 134 Sure Shot Seth, Txt Boy Rreteman; or Tat Youne Patriots oF THE NorTH. By Oll Coomes, 135 Captain Paul, rae Kentucky Moonsurmer; or, Tux Boy Spy of THE Mountars, . By Clark. 136 Night-Hawk Kit. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 137 The Helpless Hand. Capt. Mayne Reid. 138 Blonde Bill; or, Dzapwoop Dicz’s Hous Bast. By Edward L. Wheeler. 189 Judge Lynch, Jr. By T. C. Harbaugh. 140 Blue Blazes; or, Tor Break 0’ Day Boys oy Rocky Barn. By Frank Dumont. 141 Solid Sam, THe Boy Rosp-Acent; or, Tae Branpep Brows. By Edward L. Wheeler. 142 Handsome Harry, THe Boorsiack Ds- TECTIVE. By Charles Morris, 143 Scar-Face Saul, By Oll Coomes. 144 Dainty Lance, THE Boy Sport; or, THs Bank-Breakers’ Decoy Duck. J. E. Badger. 145 Captain Ferret, tax New York Derrec- TIVE; or, Boss Bos’s Boss Jos. By Wheeler. 146 Silver Star, THe Boy Knicut. A Prairie Romance, By Oll Coomes. 147 Will Wildfire, raz TxHoxovcHerReD; or, THe Winnina Hanp. By Charlies Morris. 148 Sharp Samy; or, THE ADVENTURES OF A FrienDiess Boy. By J. Alexander Patten, 149 A Game of Gold}; or, Deapwoop Dick's Bie Strixz. By Edward L. Wheeler. 150 Lance and Lasso. By Capt, F. Whittaker. 151 Panther Paul, THe Pram Prrate; or, Darnty Lance To THE Rescuz. J. E. Badger. 152 Black Bess, Wr. Wivprme’s Racer; or, Wrinnine Acamst Opps, By Charles Morris. 153 Eagle Kit, rue Boy Damox. By Oll Coomes, 154 The Swerd Hunters. By F. Whittaker. 155 Gold Trigger, Tux Sport. T. C. Harbaugh. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood} or, Tue Picken Party. By Edward L. Wheeler. 157 Mike Merry, Tox Harsor Po.ice Boy; or, Tue Nicut-Hawks oF PHrADELPHLA. Morris, 168 Fancy Frank of Colorado}; or, Tax TRAPPER’s Trust. By Buffalo Bill. 1569 The Lost Captain; or, THz Oren Potsar Sza. By Captain Frederick Whittaker. 160 The Black Giant; or, Damry Lancs m Jroparpy. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 161 New York Nell, Trae Boy-Gmu Dxrecrivz; or, OLD BLAKESLY’s Monzy. By E. L. Wheeler. 162 Will Wildfire in the Woods; or, Camp LiFe IN THE ALLEGHANIES. By Charles Morris. 163 Little Texas, THe Youna MoustTanczr A Tale of Texan Prairies. By Oll Coomes. 164 Dandy Rock’s Pledge} or, Huntep 10 DeatH. By G. Waldo Browne, 165 Billy Baggage, THe Rarmroap Boy; or, Rox 70 Kamen “by Charles Morris. ; 166 Hickory Marry. By Harry St. George. 167 Asa Scott, Tux StxampoatT Boy; or, THE Lanp PIRATES OF THE M1ssissiPPL. ka. ‘Willett. 168 Deadly Dash. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 169 Tornado Tom; or, Inyon Jack From Rap Corr. T. C. Harbaugh. 170 A Trump Card; or, Wo. Wiprme Woes anp Losrs. By Charles Morris. 171 Ebony Dan, By Frank Dumont. 172 Thunderbolt Tom; or, Tax Woir-HEeRDER or THE Rocrres. By Harry St. George. 173 Dandy Rock’s Rival. By G.W. Browne. 174 Bob Rockett, Tar Boy DopGrr; or, Mys- TERIES OPNEW YorE. By Charles Morris. 175 Captain Arizona, THe Kina Pin or Roap AGENTS; or, Patent Leather Joe’s Big Game. By Philip 8.Warne. 176 The Boy Runaway; or, THe Buccaneer OF THE me Lieut. H. D berty, U.S.N. 177 Nobby Nick of Nevada3 or, Tar Scamp OF THE SrrrRas. By Edw L. Wheeler. 178 Old Solitary, tHe Hermir TRAPPER; or, Tue DRAGON OF briver Laks, By Oll Coomes. 179 Bob Rockett, roe Banx Runner; or, THE Roap to Ruin. By Charles Morris. 180 The Sea Trailer; or, A Vow Wet Kept. By Lieut, H. D. Perry, U.8. N. 181 Wild Frank, Tse Bocxsxi Bravo; or Lapy Lity’s Love. By Edward L. Wheeler. 182 Little Hurricane, Tae Boy Capra; or, Tue OaTH oF THE YOUNG AVENGERS. By oll mes, 183 The Hidden Hand} or, Wn Witprtre’s REVENGE. By Chas. Morris. 184 The Boy Trailers; or, Danmrry LANcE on THE WaR-PaTH. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 185 Evil Eye, Krxe or Catr_e THIEVES; or, THE VULTURES OF THE Rio GranpE. By F. Dumont. 186 Cool Desmondy; or, THE GaMBLER’s Bro Game. By Col. Delle Sara, 187 Fred Malyard, THe Lire Boar Boy; or, Tue SMUGGLERS OF THE INLET. By C. Morris. 188 Ned Temple, THe Borner Boy; or, THE Map Hunter oF Powpzr River. By Harbaugh. 189 Bob Rockett, THe Cracxsman; or, DRIVEN TO THE WALLS, By Charles Morris. March 8. 190 aoe Darke}; or, THE TicERS or HicH Prinz. By Wm. R. ter. Ready March 15th. 191 Buffalo Billy, Tax Boy BotLwHAcksER; or, Tue Doomen }THrrTgEen. Capt. A. B. Taylor, Ready March 224. U.S.A. A new issue every week. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all Newsdealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents each, BEADLE & ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street. New York.