Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 253) (1882 05 30)
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TTT EI) ie Ms SS See? me, WelllllolallelalalalalalyZ 7 6[2@ al 4 \ 7" “Ch XK 4- scat vet Gani de A Vay eT Cite ae cea gal a rir tee $2.50 a year. Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. Number. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. Vol. pf Single PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, No. 25 Sierra Sam's Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vista. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, ‘‘ ROSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, “ GILT-EDGED DICK,” ‘BONANZA BILL,” ETC., ETC, \j {\ \ Vv 1, IN A } CuC Are Ie ; \ o~ (| yo hy 2) we Sia # \ IK Mex AY if OF be | , A] | F oy 7 ‘ 4, fay / bio my Wy y bf Ay j a tL Z ae eS . . 2S —~ Ss Ss ——s" = SSB <cS SSS | | | = ES SS L SAS + SS : x ELV REALE BY Soe NX. — sss \S SS SS =— =A | | | +- 3S SSRs = \ LSS SSS RANE 5 a ———— = -- -—.... Ss. e ‘ (] pbseez eee aX‘ lis aa Sit { i [HER | 4 ew Se ne . the to ~ “AN’ YOUR'E THE CUSSEDEST LYIN’ FAME-STEALER I EVER HEARN TELL ON!” NO, 2 FIRED BACK. ‘‘T AM SNODGRASS THE SNORTER!”
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2 Sierra Sam’s Pard; OR, THE ANGEL OF BIG VISTA. A Mountain Tale, BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF “DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, *‘ ROSE- BUD ROB” NOVELS, ETC., ETC. CHAPTER If, SIERRA SAM’S CADAVER: Tue Flumeyille stage rolled downinto Flume- Ville, at precisely six o’elock, when the sun was t sinking behind the ‘pine-clad cape of the ivide, and the’ miners were quitting their day’s work and coming ‘into town” from the scene of their labors. As the stage always brought in the mail for those. of the rugged citizens who were fortunate enough ever to receive any, and as the ponderous vehicle alwaysstopped at the tavern, to unload its r ailand passengers, six o’cloek’always saw the representative citizens of the little sf congre- ted in and about the tavern, in full working ress, and as dirty as the nature of their work could make them. Flumeville;was what anobserver would have called a, well manned, city, for the inhabitants were all men.” Only oné woman (Wad ever dawned upon the rugged horizon, below which the little mining camp nestled; only one case of the softening influence of the opposite sex was known among the knights who wielded the pick and shovel in Flumeville gulch. If any of thé forturne-hunters had wives and children in other parts of the country, they were careful to keep the secret locked within their own bosoms? consequently, Flumeville was, to all intents, a bachelor town, with one exception. The usual crowd was drawn up in line before the tavern, when~beng Lige, the Jehu of the stage, “yanked” his four-in-hand back upon their haunches, and brought the vehicle to a halt. It was a rare thing = AE stage to drop a passenger at Flumeyille, to-night a man clambered out of thé conveyance, valise in hand, and struck a bée-line for the barroom, where he proceeded to wash down the dust of travel with a glass of *bug-juice,” in the most approved style. fter he had ‘inclosed the beverage,” he smacked his lips with a grateful air, as if he had been partaking of nectar instead of regular old ‘‘forty-rod stuff,” and looked around him to take note of his surroundings. Every inch a six-footer, as he stood in his boots, he was as lean as a bean-pole—no appa- rent superfluous flesh existing anywhere upon his skeleton-like frame, to which his poorly- tailored garments hung with great looseness, His face was equally thin and pinched, and wore a ghostly and cadaverous expression, while his~eyes, black and sharp as a hawk’s were sunken beneath an overhanging pair of shaggy ¢ ebrows. His hair was tow-col while of beard he wore none. ly was this new-comer, and pros ape a man calculated to attract atten- ti any crowd, on account of his extreme leaniness, - After 1 g over the rough audience with an inquiri Lae the skinny gentleman turned to the bar maid, “Jim Jackson’s pal Mag,” as the rboie hy daughter was called—a smart, quick-witted, and by no means homely, true- western niiss, of some sixteen summers, who ran ee tavern, while her father labored at the e. “ Abem! Nice day!” the thin man observed, way of opening |a versation. Bind P Nis! hatte responded, busyin es herself at Ree the counter. “Ji drap down on the hearse?” ‘Tl did that, oe a to find more of a town, [am from Big say. My name is Junius Brutus Dunk.” ‘Indeed! What a delightful name!” Maggie said, with mock soberness. ‘I 8’ you're one ° the big guns up at Big Vista, Mr. Dunk —éh? The lank mati looked displeased. “My name is not Donkey, miss—but Junius Brutus Dunk. I flatter myself that J am one of the representative gentlemen of Big Vista.” ‘“‘T judged likely,” Maggie allow half around to suppress’ a giggte. , turning ‘* Let me’ see Slerra Sam’s.Pard. —haven’tI heard something about there hay- ing been a famine up there, lately?” Dunk colored, for he ‘* tumbled” to her hint quite readily; he was at first inclined to frown, but finally brought to the surface of his ca- daverous face rather a ghastly smile. “Well, not particularly; although L_ might rsonally illustrate the contrary,” be replied. ‘ By the way, you seem to be a pretty pert young miss—maybe you can answer me a few questions?” ‘* Well, that depends. Can tell better arter Well, to you ax ’em.” ** That’s sure as you live! with, do you know a man here in Flumeville by the name of Sierra Sam?” Maggie looked surprised. * Waal, I should say so,” she confeased, with a nod. ‘*Guess thar’s few as don’t know Sammy.” **Ah! then I am in luck by coming here. What sort of a character is this Sierra Sam?” ““He? Waal, I guess you'll find he’s about the strangest character you ever tackled, ef you go a-nosin’ inter his business. When he ain’t disturbed he’s jest as playful and kitten- ish as ye please; when he’s r’iled, he’s bad.” ‘So Lhear. Well, I must interview him, at all events. If I get demolished, please have my remains expressed back to Big Vista.” ‘* Waal, jest let mo remind you that thar won’t»be no needof-that,” Maggie suggested. ‘“Sammy’s.a pulverizer, Sammy is, and,if be should ever shake up your bones, there’d be nothing left'for transportation.” Dunk was probably not of that opinion, how- ever, for’he wandered leisurely~about the bar- roouy awaiting the appearance of Mr. Sierra am, In the course of an hour, that individual put in an appearance, armed with a shovel and pan, and somewhat more mud-splashed and grimy than was usual with the dashing Moun- tain Ferret. His face and figure however, had lost none of the old-time grace of outline, and his eyes lowed with the same good-nature as of old. His fone hair swept down to his shoulders, from be- neath his jaunty sombrero; his mustache and imperial were as neatly pointed as ever. fter depositing his tools in one corner, he turned and gazed at the occupants of the room, with a nod, bis eyes finally resting upon Dunk. Something like a waggish glitter shot into his eyes as he scanned the attenuated man, but he turned his glance away so as not to betray ib. Dunk, seeming to realize that Sam was the man he was looking for, soon came forward and tapped the Californian on the shoulder. ‘*Excnse me, my friend,” he said; ‘‘ but have I the honor of addressing Sierra Sam?” “T allow you have, if so be there is any honor thereto.attached!” Sam responded dryly. 5 am generally known by the name of Sierra am.’ “And I am Junius Brutus Dunk, Esq., of Big Vista, he’ our a ‘td ge hae We urpose to hunt you up an ve a Ww om on a matter of importance. So if you will grant me a private interview, we will at once get down to business.” “Well, if your business is as important as you intimate, Perhaps we had better adjourn to my palace, Sam suggested. ‘‘Come this way.” He led. the oe the-tavern.to a small log-cabin near at hand, where he “lived when he. was at home,” as he explained while en route. It was furnished after the primitive frontier style, and yet was a neat, and, withal, a com- fortable abode. i Sierra Sam seated himself upon a stool at one end of a long, rough table, and motioned the man from Big Vista to take a like position at the te end, “Well, Mr. Dunk, I am attention. Proceed to unload as rapidly as you “ ‘That I will, sir,” the other replied. ‘In the first . I wish to announce that I came here for your individual interest, providing we can come to terms—that is to say. I have an im- portant revelation to make to you, which is vastly to your niary in ¥. ““ Ah! well, that is good news. Am I to fall heir to half-a-dozen gold mines, or a million or two in Government bonds?” ** Well, that depends. {fam here, the posses- sor of valuable data that to means much. Iam the kind of a man who lives by his wits, in preference to manual.” : : ** So I should estimate,” Sam smiled, stroking his chin. ‘‘Judging by your personal appear- ance, however, the effects cf subsisting on the ‘brave, noble sort of fe strength of your wits has rather rubbed against your constitation, not?” Dunk frowned. * You are inclined to poke fun at me!” he de- murred; evidently displeased. ‘‘When you come to know me better, you won’t do this. Why, my dear man, you have no idea what a godsend I can be to you, if we come to terms.” *‘Ahtindeed! Su g we don’t come to terms—what then? Oh, well, then that alters the ease!” Sam both queried and answered with a light laugh. Junius Brutus stared bard. ‘*Exactly—that alters the case,” he repeated. “TI can lay you gently in the lap of luxury, or do you incalculable injury at will My mission here is speculative. I come tomake terms with you, if you choose; if you don’t, why I Lave other ends to further.” ** Consequently I am to know you as a super- annuated a eee eh?’ Sam assumed, dryly. ‘* My friend, I don’t think I care to entertain any dealings with you.” ** But, you don’t understand—you don’t know what you are talking about, my dear sir! You don’t seem to realize that I am the man through whose instrumentality you can win or lose a fortune,” ‘** You think thusly?” “IT know it! All you’ve got todois to come to reasonable terms, and I will put you on the track of a priceless. fortune, which otherwise you must remain in ignorance of all your life.” ** Well, that’s a pretty broad mouthful for you to’ask me to swallow,” Sam declared, calm- y. ‘* You may be quite sharp, as far as sharp- ness goes, but at the same time I flatter myself it takes an uncommon human to ring in a deal on §am’l.” ** This is no deal.” ‘Well, maybe not. According to your out- line, if I pay youasum of money, you will in return give me a fortune. Now, bow much money Co you want in case I should feel dis to dicker with you?” ** Ah, you talk business now,” the man from Big Vistwexclaimed, rubbing his hands together patron “It shows what good sense you possesg, ve apis heard tell of you as a low, and Icannot find it in‘my heart to be bard on you. Soaif you will give me a thousand, why Pll give you the se- cret, and we'll call it square. an_ independent fortune easier.” “Not to let you tell it, very likely. But you see I know better. Supposing. I were to turn i and tell you what you wish to sell to me * That you can’t do,” Dunk growled. “ But I can, though! You wish to inform ma ten hundred dollars’ worth that I have a rich old maiden aunt residing in Big Vista.” Junius Brutus looked astounded. _ “This old maiden aunt, Tabitha Green by name, happens to be nearing the portals eternal of two valuable gold mines. Havin ou cannot make gene doubt, of the promised difficulty ric poom shall encounter in getting a passport into he realms of bliss, she w to give away her riches to one of ber two nephews, of whom I chance to be one. Is this not so?” Well?” “Having known Tabitha’s desire to see her long: relative, with a view to beaping upon him some of her s easb, you, hired by poppe Number Two, set out in search of. nephew Number One, for the purpose of ter- minating his existence in case youcannot make better terms with him.” The Californian was now the man from Big Vista ; the latter sat rigidly on his stool, his face even whiter than usual. 7 knew * bec] were a 22 glad to meet you,” * pursued, ium bd! f ess Decal settle this matter here oF oll as whens. Don’t eg think so?” And as he drew a revolver from his nee laid it on the table. ank gave vent to a . He was trembling in pte limb from Re as was evident e me What! you don’t mean to do me harm, Sierra Sam,” he articulated, faintly._ ‘‘ You are wrong in your estimation of me. I am not a murderer, nor did I have apy designs against your life in coming here. I simply came to—” ‘Make money out of me. But you cannot do that. Iam alwaysalive toall my personal interests, you bet, and able, as a general thing, to anticipate the moves of my enemies. I do not pro to harm you, sir; you are beneath my notice. But I want to show you that you are as powerless todo me harm as a new-born babe. You were sent here to kill me, and I am
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oe revolver in your belt, Please draw it, level it at my head and fire.” Dunk saw the cool Californian fold his arms across his breast, and a treacherous fire shot into his sunken eyes. He made an effort to move his hand toward his belt, but could not. He tried to leap from his stool, but could not, Scarcely a muscle could he move, while an ex- pression of excruciating torture came upon his cadaverous face, Sierra Sam fairly roared with laughter, and picked up his revolver. _. ‘You see youare mine, did I choose to use oul” he said. ‘‘ See,” and he touched a small nob, at one side of the table. ‘‘ You were held by electricity, which the stool administered to you in such gradual currents that you were not aware anything was the matter, until you were powerless. You are now at liberty to a Take the first stage back to Big Vista, or I'll shoot a the next time I see you. When you get to ig Vista tell all parties concerned to look out for the arrival of Sierra Sam’l, on the 5th of July! Go!” Without further urging, Junius Brutus left the cabin. To all appearances, he was a very cowed and crestfallen man, But within his heart, there rankled a venge- ful, rancorous grudge against the calm man of the Sierras, and once outside the cabin he mut- tered: “ Yes, I will go back to Big Vista, and—” The “and” was spoken with emphasis and seemed to imply a threat. CHAPTER II. MISTAKEN IN THE MAN. “* ALL aboard!” yelled the driver of the stage plyin between Kunestown, Silver Spur and ig Vista. “All aboard! Next station is Big Vista!” nd he gave an extra emphatic crack to his long-lashei whip, to warn his would-be passen- ers that a start was to be made instanter, from Siiver Spur, where a halt had been made for supper. A number of passengers poured out of the tunch saloon, eating as they came, and clam- bered into and onto the great vehicle, not anx- ious to get left at Silver Spur, where there was as yet but one solitary habitation toward the foundation of a great ‘‘ city.” Among those who came last, and was con- sequently forced to resort to the top seats of the conveyance, were two characters likely to at- tract more than ordinary attention—the more, perhaps, owing to the great contrast in their personal appearance. One was a young female, clad in top-boots, trowsers, a long huntin shirt of knee length, belted at the waist, and a plumed sombrero—a girl of about rigeteyye seiny- rth hd a at Pies a fresh, round, rosy, pretty face, sparkling dark eyes and happily chiseled features—a girl who, although @ somewhat reckless nature, was amply able te take care of herself under all cir- cumstances, The revolvers in her belt may have increased this inference, The other gla was a meek-f clerical- jooking individual, with a fringe of cravat- whiskers beneath his chin, and reaching to the ears. A pair of deep blue goggles shaded his eyes; his face was one of most sepulchral cast; his hair was busby, streaked with white, an was topped out with @ genuine Quaker, broad- brim hat. : Otherwise he was attired in fine broad-cloth, and being lame, walked with a cane, It was with a great effort that he clambered to the top of the stage—at least be gave vent to enough grunts and “ums” and “ahs!” to indicate the fact of his physical disability. The Girl Sport who had eg mounted, ahead of him, seemed to enjoy his attempt hugely, as did two other cutside passengers, ———_ ——— - enemas SS ae whom it may be well to describe here as they | will figure somewhat during the progress of our little narrative. ns P The one was a typical specimen of the border rough. Not one of the evil-natured class, evidently, but of that bragging, blatant species commonly denominated in Western life as bull- whackers—a fiery red-haired, full red-bearded chap, the end of whose nose was as red as a cherry; whose eyes emitted a gleam of sluggish shrewdness, and whose attire was about as ‘easy and mud-begrimed as it well could be, is belt bristled with revolvers and knives, which it was evident he would not hesitate to use if it became necessary to do so, The other man was of more dashing a . ance—was possessed of a fine figure dy cool, | “ful mustache; be also wore a trim imperial; his hair drooped to his shoulder; and altogether | be looked and dressed remarkably like the frontier ferret, Sierra Sam. The Quaker finally succeeded in gaining a seat on top of the coach; Jehu Jack gave his whip another crack, and away went the horses and conveyance down the rough mountain trail, just as the sun was setting over the rugged land- scape now dotted here and there with summer's green. From one side to tho other swayed the pon- derous coach, owing to the unevenness of the trail, threatening to capsize at any minute, and the clerical individual grew extremely alarmed. “Stop! stop!” he cried out, to the driver. “You'll have us killed! Drive slower, I say.” ‘“Go to Jericho!” heartily responded Jehu; ‘“*T’'m drivin’ this yer stage, pards, an’ I reckon I regilate ther momentum ter suit my own oy le!” the Girl 8 interposed, Yas, uncle e Gir rt inte ey- ing the Quaker amusodly ain’ no use i. tin’ skeart. Jehu Jack knows his Y, Z, &’s, you bet!” ** Verily I asked thee not for advice, unseem- ly-clad girl,” was the retort, given in a chiding way. @ Oh! you don’t, eh?’ the girl slight flush coming to her cheeks, ‘‘ my style o’ gear, then?” ‘Verily, [do not. Imought say I was never more shocked in my life, to witness such an un- becoming masquerade in a young woman, Verily the world groweth moreand more sinful, each day. Ah! um!” And he heaved. a deep sigh, and held tighter to the railing, for fear he would be jerked off upon the rocks. ‘Yas, you bet she ws right pat, every day!” the girlsaid. “Sorry ye dislike my togs tho’, old gent, ’cause I'm a square gal, every day in a week, and kin lick any galost as says lain’t. My handle is Trumps, that’s my sheer of the game o’ life, too. Jest put on male at- tire you see, because I want to vote; an’ then, too, it makes locomotion easier. .Bet yer boots ye'll get worse shocked, than at me, ef ye land down in Big Vista.” Obediah Potts, as he afterward gave his name, did not reply, but instinctively clapped his hand to the region of his trowers ket, probably to see if his pocketbook was safe. Trumps laughed at this, 4 ** You'd better hang on to yer wallet, uncle,” she suggested. ‘‘Et ain’t an oncommon cir- cumstance that this hyer hearse has been halted by road-agents, and the passengers relieved of their filthy lucre. Preachers don’t stand no more show than pilgrims, wi’ the knights of kleptomania,” ** Bet yer boots they don’t, or my name ain’t Snodgrass the Snorter!” put in the bullwhacker. “It don’t matter ef a man’s a parson or a Van- derbilt—the ’gents pocket his rhino jest the same. Guess ’tain’t much the galoots wull ever get out o’ Snodgrass the Snorter, tho’.” ‘*Ye don’t want ter go snortin’ tew certain about that,” Trumps warned, looking the man over with a single searching glance. ‘‘’Spect big men has to weaken when it comes to facin’ road agents. S’pose tho’, judgin’ by your title, that you are some pumpkins when you’re tew ome | “Waal, I am that, you bet! Lam bad—very bad!” Snod asserted, with a dignified air, that was ludicrous in iteelf. ‘‘I am sometimes so bad that hull towns stampede to escape my vengeance, My principal holt isswallerin’ men half-way, bitin’ off their ears, an’ spittin’ em out. I allus breakfast on a pair of tender souse. dine on a bite of some galoot’s clean-shave cheek, and sup on a plump arm or spare rib. Oh! yes, I’m snortin’ bad, am I, Snod Y And, with a grave shake of his head, the “bad” man drew a long, sharp-pointed dirk knife, and serenely eA, ed to pick his pearly white teeth. Obediah Potts smothered a groan of righteous borror, and cast a sidelong glance at the red- headed man of cannibalistic propensities, [f be had any idea of expressing ‘his opinion of a man of such inhuman tastes, bis intention was cut short by the sudden halting of the stage in a gloomy pass. The cause, was evident enough. On every side of the coach swarmed-a crowd of masked men, in red flannei shirts and black pants, top-boots and plumed slouch hats, and — man except one held a carbine leveled w the coach. ueried, a on’t like 38 “Shelli out, gentlemen!” he called out, stern- ly, ‘‘No time for parley. Your money or your lives!” No one responded. The group of passengers on top of the stage were evidently inclined to consider, Obediah Potts’s teeth began to chatter, al- though his face did not seem to grow ticu- larly pale; and it struck Trumps, who was watching him, that the teeth-chatter was mo-:e a piece of acting than anything else. **Come! come!” the road-agent chief cried. “Tf you don’t pan out, Pll order fire. Ye can’t “ y bon - Mi Bee e inside passengers respon by handing out their pokmbdoks: Trumps, Snodgrass the Snorter, and the long-bai passenger also banded over pocketbooks, somewhat noticeable for their flatness. At which the captain’ growled. ‘*Say, this is a cussed poor haul!” he cried, with an oath. “* Aire ye sure ye ain’t got any better ter offer?” “Better tackle outward-bound stages; they pan out better. Pilgrims generally go in broke foe “a out flush!” Trumps explained, with a ugh. ‘*Mebbe!” the captain responded. ‘*Hello, old Quake! where’s your mite?’ “ Verily, sir, I am a minister of the Gospel, and my purse hath in it but sufficient to pur- chase a single meal!” Obediah said, faintly. **Can’t help it—shbell eut!” the captain or- dered. ‘‘ You’re an old sinner, or ‘ye’d let to- morrow look out for itself, accordin’ to Scrip- ter. Tumble it down heer!” With a groan, the solemn man obeyed; then the captain fixed his gaze upon’ the long-haired man upon the stage heretofore mentioned. ‘*Sierra Sam!” he cried. ‘‘ You will be re- quired to stop off and accompany us to head- quarters. You're just the man we've been looking for!” The long-haired man looked astonished. ‘* What d’ye mane!” he demanded, in a strong Trish accent. ‘‘?m no Sierra Sam, at all, at all! Terry McNorrin’s me name, sur, if yo plaze.” **But you see I don’t ‘ plaze,’ despite your well-feigned Irish brogue!” the road-agent de- clared. ‘‘You’re Sierra Sam; plain enough to suit_ my notion; so pile, down off from that stage instanter, or I’ll have you shot where you are! “But, the divil wat Bs, Im not Sierra Sam!’ MeNorrin protes **D’ye niver hear tell o’ Teddy McFadden, the frish Spotter! That's nve—tho’ me rael name is McNorrin.” “Tt don’t matter! We can settle t at leisure. Down off from that coach, Isay, before I count three, or you’re a dead man!” McNorrin saw that it was useless to disobey, as he would surely get the worst of it by so doing; so he reluctantly descended from the stage. As he clambered down, Snedgrass, the bull- whacker, whispered: “It needn’t worry you; Tl get your release!” ‘Get along with that stage!” yelled the cap- tain, as the Irish Spotter stepped down upon the und. ‘The next time ye come along, see that ye fetch much more swag!” ‘“‘ Next time you'll get a lead chromo, maybe!” Trumps called out. Then the stage rolled a away, Jehu — —e as merrily as if not nothing had appen t was not the first time his conveyancé had been halted by these same gents of the trail and therefore it was, as be remarked, “ second nature to him.” After the departure of the , Mc- Norrin’s arms were bound behind his back, and he was sent ahead of the main gang, in charge of two of the outlaws. After leaving the pass, — struck a route the bed of a littie creek, which flowed through a transverse ravine. Following this stream, by slow stages for an hour—for the water was knee-deep and wading was difficult—they finally pa into a rocky pocket or mountain-surrounded valley, where some time there had evidently been an Indian village, for a number of skin lodges still stood in a circle. McNorrin was taken to one of these lodges, and left there, only the captain remaining with to- | him. After taking a drink from a bottle that stood
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aa upon a sort of deal table, the outlaw rons ~ Irishman, and looked him searchingly in the ace. ‘‘So you insist that you are not Sierra Sam, do you?” he demanded, his eyes gleaming through his mask savagely. ‘Faith, and I do!” Terry replied. ‘ Shure l niver heerd divil a thing of Sierra Sam afore, and don’t know a won of him.” ‘‘T know better. You see, I have an acquain- tance who met you over in Flumeville, a bit of awhile ago, and you sent word you would be in Big Vista the fifth day of July. This is the 5th, and you are Sierra Sam.” y err pardon of yez, but you lie like the divil!” Teddy declared unflinchingly. ‘‘ I niver was in Flumeville in me life. vive mind the red-whiskered galoot on the stage? “s Yes.” ‘Waal, sur, he spake in me ear, as I got off, not to be onaisy, as he’d fix it up all right for me—so very likely, that was your man, in dis- guise. An’ ef the loikes of yez waits a proper length of time very likely yez will hear from a thet you'll hev to whistle before you get im.’ The captain uttered a curse. ‘*If you should chance to be right, it is a remarkable coincidence, this chance resem- blance, and all that saves your life!” he growled. He then blew a whistle, and another road- agent entered. “*) say, King, look at this man sharply. Is this Sierra Sam?” The road-agent stared hard at McNorrin, and shook his head. ‘Don’t think so,” he said. ‘‘The two are remarkably alike, however. Indeed, I can detect but one difference—that too, something no one else would notice.” The outlaw chief retired from the lodge in disgust. wo days later he once more visited McNor- rin in the lodge where he had been confined. “You were right,” he said. ‘‘I have re- ceived a communication that satisfies me you are not Sierra Sam. Outside you will find a man ready to escort you back to the vicinity of Big Vista.” fter the Lrish Spotter was swore roundly, and took a pocket and opened it. It ran as follows: ne, the captain etter from his * Bia Vista, July 5th, 18—. “De Wotr Dreerine, Srr:— “The man he took from the coach is not Sierra Sam, although Sierra Sam arrived here the same hour the coach did, and made inquiries for you. You had better return, when it shall please the writer of this to give you further information. “Yours, etc., UNKNOWN.” * Sa who the devil is Unknown?’ Deering grunted, as he tore the letter into shreds. ** Possibly the male-attired girl who sassed me back from the coach. If so, I shall have to buy her off, or—” CHAPTER III. THE TWO SNODGRASSES. Bic Vista! Location—in the Sierra Nevada. Site—high up the mountain side, upon a natural shelving ledge or plateau, which over- looked the yawning gulf below, and a this a lower ed broken range of hills, sparsely timbered and possessed of some rather -wildly beautifully scenic een not to the rugged ve of the miner, but to the eye ro- mantic of the mot Braga Sng It wasn’t mueh of a city, Big Vista. It possessed enough able-bodied men to work its quartz drifts, which ran back into the moun- tain; it had a sm@ll complement of gamblers, roughs and adventurers in general, such as are identical with nearly every mining camp, and that was about all, not fergetting that Big Vista possessed several citizens of the fairer sex, Access was had to the place by a dizzy stage route that wormed its way down the mountain side, and thro the gulf toward Silver Spur, but it was seldom traveled except by Jehu Jack’s semi-weekly stage. Of the business places in Big Vista might be mentioned, first of all, the post-office, which was located in a little cigar-store shanty super- intended by one Angel: then followed a general store, five saloons, a smithy, ore-breaker and mill, several small enterprises, a theater and a shanties. he * post-office.’ however, in the mind of gome people, was the most attractive place of a + + nna Aaa 4 could earn a decent living. A meeting was at once held, and the question considered; and it was decided there was. Chauncey Bloker, Big Vista’s blear-eyed P. M., had recently been suspicioned of horse- stealing, to say nothing of robbing the mails; so the aforesaid Bloker was immediately in- vited out to a lynch picnic, and Angel was in- stalled in his place, at a moderate salary. She soon succeeded in saving up enough to purchase a stock of cigars and tobacco, and combined the two businesses profitably. In some respects, the girl, with her seventeen or eighteen years, did not fall short of what her name implied. It was no matter of secrecy that she was the rettiest piece of femininity that had ever set ‘oot in Big Vista. She possessed a figure of the medium stature of women, and of graceful outline; her face was one of exquisitely perfect lines, and soft rose-tinted complexion, set off with deep blue eyes of at power of expression, a pretty mouth, which always seemed ready to smile when there was anything pleasing; boir nu brown and luxuriant; hands white and shapely. She always dressed plainly but yet neatly: her every move indicated grace and refinement. She was habitually agreeable to customers, but still enough reserved to preclude the possible idea that she cared to be sociable with any one. This very fact made her more friends than she was aware of, even though it may have won her a few enemies. One morning, nearly a week after the stage- coach robbery, Miss Angel was engaged in dusting off her cigar-case, and putting things to rights, when a shadow darkened the doorway, and Jooking up she saw a stranger standing upon the threshold. It was the man of professed cannibalistic pro- pensities, Snodgrass—surnamed the Snorter, and since his coming to Big Vista had been re- christened Kittens by some of the local bums, who had challenged him to knock off their hats, but without effect. “‘Gude-mornin’, mum!” spake Snodgrass, doffing his battered semblance of what at some remote period had been a plug hat. ‘‘ This yer is an all-fired fine mornin’, neow ain’t it. The birds aire a-vocalizin’ in the tree-tops—ther in- sects aire dronin’ through sunlit etherialism— the busy wassup is suckin’ the sugar-coated dew froth the wild blossoms o’ this yar oasis—and oo rane ne fer a smoke. Be-a-u-tiful morn- n’! flashed an inquiring, half-amused glance at the bullwhacker, “ Yes, it is quite pleasant this morning,” she replied, ‘Gorgeous !” Snodgrass declared, seeming to w more assured, and stealing sottly along to counter. ‘ How et do sublimify ther nature o’ mortal humanity tew see things joggin’ along so durned nice! I’m rn esthete, I am—cl’ar down to my heart’s e’na’most corner, you bet an’ I worship natur’s manifold wonders. But I also rather luv compressed lead-pencil-shaped editions 0’ tobacco, an’ the fact is, my financial status air rather deteriorated at present. So, I thought I'd drap in to inquisitate ef ye ever trust!” “Oh! yes—I trust in the All-Wise Providence, as every one should!” Miss Angel replied, dust- ing away vigorously. ‘‘That’s the safest ac- count one can run nowadays.” “ But, - see, I referred to the terbac?”’ Snod- grass declared, with a grin, which his red beard made ludicrous. ‘ D’ye.ever ‘comydate broken- up pards wi’ stick ’bacey, on tick?” “Never!” Angel replied, shaking her head. c _ just hardly ever, so to He bed as whacker perpetrated, evident eliev e had ate a bit : , ‘* Never! 1 said again. ‘‘T as lowe —I never owe. Gooa-day sir!” si, “ But, see hyar!” ppotested the Snorter, ‘I ain’t gone yet. I musthave a smoke or I shall kerflummix right heer, frum sheer wantiveness. So set out yer dice, an’ show;yer angelic quali- ties. “Tf you get beat—” ‘*T get nothin’ !” “If T get beat?” “You've got ter set up ther best five-bit-ers your shebang boasts of!” Angel smiled. “Well, I guess your assurance deserves & treat,” she said, reaching for the dice cup, and with one tip spilling five aces upon the counter. Snodgrass whistled his surprise, “You be great, you bel” he allowed, only succeeding in turning a full hand. Next time he threw less—three trays, and Angel quietly beat it with five fours, and re stored the box to its place on the shelf, Whereat Snodgrass looked blank. “ Alas! alas! such is fate!” he murmured, sadly. ‘‘T hearn et tell thet the women war tew much fer men at gamin’, and I reckon she’m sf, 7? 0. ‘¢ Well, I won't let you suffer,” Angel said, smiling. ‘‘I may need to be befriended some day myself, so stick these in your vest pocket.” And she threw half a dozen good cigars out upon the counter. Snodgrass gazed at her a moment in evident astonishment, then he picked up the cheroots with a hand nearly as white as Angel’s own. ‘Gal, you’re a jewel!” he said, at the same time flipping a gold eagle out upon the counter. ‘‘ Thou art an angel, fer sure, ‘ As fair at heart ‘ As fair complected,’ by gum! But, nutheramI a tramp, bet yer *baccy on thet! I’m Snodgrass, I am, o’ great appe izing renown—Snodgrass ther Snorter, you bet!’ ‘Well, neew, pilgrim, I beg ter argy on thet leetle p’int!” a voice cried, and the post-office isamediately afterward had another occupant. Angel uttered a cry of astonishment, and rubbed her eyes to make sure she saw aright. The new-comer was an exact counterpart, in every respect, of the man who had just tempted fortune at the dice-box. As sharp-seeing a pair of eyes had Angel, as any person could well possess, but for the life of Le she could not see an iota’s difference be tween the twostrangely met men. Of exactly corresponding hight and size, dressed and dirt-splashed precisely the same, simed alike, and looking every inch alike in face and feature, there was no discernible dif- ference between them. A photograph of one would have included the whole likené§s of both. Snodgrass No, 1 turned around and gazed at the new-comer in evident anger at the inter- ference. ‘Hello! great yowlin’ wild-cats, what d’ye mean?” he roared. ‘‘T mean thet you’re a consarned lyin’ decep- tion—a consummate counterfeit—a designin’, diabolerikal cheat!” the other cried, bristling up. ‘*I’m the famous Snodgrass, the Snorter, right up from Sorrocco, ther bad, bad man who chews up humans fer fodder, I am, you bet!” “Ditto hyer!” asserted No. 1.'"“My best holt is chawin’ off ears, cheeks, arms, an’ dis- sectin’ ther delicacies o’ fine old erib, Snod- am I, ther great, original bad-bad double- steam-chested Snorter, from Sorrocco city, you bet yer Lonanzas, every day in a week and twice on Sunday !” The two men looked at each other, something like a grim smile coming into their eyes. ‘“Waal, this beats my time!” No, 2 grunted, scratching his chin, “ Knocks me cl’ar off my base!” No. 1 sighed, picking his teeth with his bowie-knife. ‘ You aire the cheekiest liar I ever met in my life, pon my cannibalistic honor.” | “ An’ you're the cussedest lyin’ fame-stealer | ever hearn tell on!” No, 2 fired back. “J am Snodgrass the Snorter!” “JT am Snodgrass the Snorter—you bet!” from No.l. . . ‘How ye goin’ ter prove it?” “« How are you?” A “Dunno. Reckon thar’s no way, except to settle it atwixt ourselves,” ‘*That’s sure as preachin’. Let’s adjourn to some quiet spot, and square up.” “Tm willin’. Wait till I get some cigars,” and No. 2 flung a gold eagle upon the counter, took a dozen cigars and the change nar, ag ve him; then the two Snodgrasses left the P ace and sauntered down the mage. ieall, soon disap- pearing below the level of the great plateau. ar or had followed them to the door, and gazed after them in curiosity. “Well, that is the strangest occurrence I ever heard of,” she murmured, with a'puzzled look. ‘‘T wonder, upon my word, which is gen, It is quite evident: that one of them is, and one is not; but, which is which appears ‘to be a co-
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a nundrum. Ha! ha! strange—strange! But, I baven’t done so bad a trad pn morning start. I wonder if those ten-dollar gold pieces are good? I scarcely glanced at them.” She went behind the counter, and took them rom a box where she had previously placed em. One of them was all right. The back of the other one had been ground off, and a picture of a man engraved in the place of the official stamp! It was a most expert piece of workmanship, and the picture was of a man of handsome face, with mustache, imperial, long hair, and slouch hat—a man whose eeeerence was of the type peculiar to the prairie scout. Angel gazed at the face admiringly. “That settles it!” she murmur “One of those men was the negative of this likeness, in disguiss. But, which one? True as I live, I don’t know which man gave this coin!” She tried to recollect, but could not, for she had taken only a quick glance at either eagle which had been given her. “Oh! well; I'll keep it, and fallin love with the owner of the face. Maybe he will call for the coin,” she said, aloud, with a merry laugh, as she slipped it into her ket. A step upon the th old, just then, caused her to turn quickly around, her cheeks flushing scarlet. “Oh! Mr. Deering, is it you?” she exclaimed, ** You startled me,’ _ “So I perceive,” Deering said, advancing into the room. ‘Every one is liable to be startled!” And he laughed, sarcastically. He was a man of rather heavy build and medium stature; his dress was thoroughly ‘‘citizen,” and faultless as regards fit and tex- _— his med was a commonplace one, " y complexion, ape oem no particularly attractive feature; his eyes were jetty black, as was his bair, and his rather sensual mouth was shaded by a flerce looking mustache. ‘* By the way,” he continued, as he saw the flush deepen upon her face, ‘* who is the owner of the face upon the likeness you just slipped into your pocket?” Ps " is not “~ ou oe know, Mr. Impudeuce,” gel responded. was not your picture, “Ob! wasn’t it?” e ‘* Well, 1 guess not!” as w, you are foolish, Angel, to be offish toward me. Where in all Big Vista can you find a better man to cling to through life?” " Vista is such a great city that I really don’t ,” the girl replied dryly. “Tve a wide world, th , to make my choice from.” “ Pshaw. Your position is against you. Who do youi ine would have you, a ci git, but infatuated me?” “Qh! my! What conceit! Supposing I should make an announcement that I was in the market—how many of Big Vista’s Pilgrims do cappose would come to the fore?” scowled. “None!” he said, “They all know better than to infringe on my claims. I.don’t tolerate ones Mies mn Beal Ssearitee? man 8! in store t then, and ti his hat to Angel. = ‘ “Excuse me!” he said, ‘‘but could you tell me where I can find the residence of Miss Tabitha Green?” CHAPTER IV. TOO MANY ACES, De Wour DrEeRinG wheeled around with an cath at the query of the new-comer, and then added a second one. The stranger who stood in the doorway was Sierra Sam. Or was it the Irish Spotter, McNorrin? These —— went quickly through Deer- ing’s mind, “Ob! are you the man,” Sam asked, with a smile, x who knows of the residence of Miss —" Angel a but Deerin, er so fiercely at she stopped speaking. ‘You shut up!” he growled, “‘or it will be the worse for you.” Then he turned to the Sport. “Who are you, and what do you want with Tabitha Green?” he demanded, taking a step aearer to the stranger. Sierra “ Emphatically it is none of your business, De Wolf Deering,” was the prompt reply. “*T did- n’t come here to make a man of your stamp acquainted with my business, by any means, so Pll bid you -day.” De Wolt ring did not follow him as he turned and strode away, but instead, turned to Angel, ey ou see that galoot?” he queried, noting the fact that the girl was watching the Californian’s wie) figure with interest. ‘**T see him, to be sure,” Angel replied, coldly. * An attractive appearing person.” **Humph! he won’tap soattractive when he gets through with me, cuss him! D’ye know who he is?” ‘*I¢ bas just occurred to me,” the girl nodded. ** Miss Green told me a few days since that her other nephew was coming here soon, and that she was going to choose between him and your- self as the heir to her wealth.” ‘She told you this, did she?’ Deering hissed, his face growing darker than was usual. ‘‘She told you this?” ‘* She did; and I presume likely you will fall short of the liberal allowance of pocket-money ou have had, through being the manager of er affairs,” Angel answered, watching him with something like a triumphant expression in her eyes. ‘Never! never!” Deering gritted, his face flaming with rage. “Ill teach this puppy, Sierra Sam, that be made a disastrous move when he came to Big Vista, mark my words, As for you, [ do believe you wonld rejoice in my downfall.” ‘Of course, with all the angelic zest of my nature,” she fired back. ‘‘I do not admire you, Mr. Deering—I told you that when I first came to listen to your would-be loverly proposals. Since then you have made yourself more and more obnoxious, until I assure you I cannot bear you. So please remember this, and govern yourself accordingly.” Deering glared at her in evident astonish- ment. It was the first time she had ever ex- hibited such independence and ruffled temper, ‘* Well, curse me if I ever expected yow to turn on me in such a way,” he ejaculated, ‘* But you'll find you will lose by it, ou shall yet learn to fear and love me at the same time, and you shall become the slave of my master will. The day is dawning when it shall become necessary for me to put on the screws, so to rf re 5 and prove that my will here in Big Vista aw. He turned then and left the store. “Oh, you bad, wicked man!” Angel said after he was gone. ‘‘ You are a desperado, but you'll find you cannot scare me. I’d rather be your enemy than your friend.” Miss Tabitha Green, spinster, the owner of the only paying mines in Big Vista, and the of other wealth in money, bonds, etc., resided in a comfortable house near the center of the little town, in company with her pet cat, canary, poll-parrot, and house-plants, and with only one attendant, whose color was black, and who filled the position of domestic and man-of- all-work. Claudie was his name, and he - on airs that indicated his equality with Big Vista’s most im t citizens. Miss m, although in the fifty-sixth year of single blessedness, was rather a shrewd, sociable woman, with less of the peevish old- maid characteristics than might have been ex- € of her; and she was friendly to all well- persons. ut, although neighbors she had a-plenty, she om was seen outside of her home, and spent the most of her time with her pets and plants. During the same forenoon of the day that witnessed the unpleasant interview between Angel and De Wolf Deering, Claudie thrust his ebony visage in at the door of Miss Tabitha’s room, and showed his ivories in a most ludi- crous grin. * me, missy, but dar’s a man at de do’ dat desires to interview de boss ob de house!” he said. ‘A man, Claudie?” Miss Green cried, ner- yously. ‘ What kind of a man?” “White gem’man, missy—long hair, mus- tache, imperial—reg’lar masher, fo’ suah!” “Oh! my! and I haven’t got my hair in rs even!” Miss Green murmured, smoothing out her apron, and adjusting the ruffled collar. ** Show the gentleman in, Claudie.” The servant retired, and soon the same person who had inquired for Miss Green’s abode, at the , entered the room, closing the door hind him. “My dear aunt!” he exclaimed, stepping for- 5 ward, with outstretched hand, “you can not guess how glad I am to meet you at last—you whom I have heard so much of, and long de- Ts it poesibl !” Miss G asped, risi le reen g , rising— “can it be possible that you are really—” ‘Sam Slocum, you bet!” the handsome man exclaimed, heartily. ‘‘I’ve been here several days, and mee | out this was your abiding- place, I concluded to drop around and see you.” “‘T am so glad that you did. I have been wishing to see my elder sister’s son very much!” and Miss Green shook hands with him, and they both became seated. ‘*So you are Sammy, are you?” ‘*T am, in truth. And ou, I see, are my mother’s much-talked of maiden sister. I should know you by the strong resemblance you bear to 7 r mother.” “Why, indeed: how strange! I always heard people say we bore no resemblance to each Tao eta ” ‘Oh! possibly in your younger days, you may have not. But, latterly, up to the time of my mother’s decease, she looked very much like you.” ‘‘ Ah! well, perhaps. You, I see, have grown up to be a strong, healthy and good-looking man. Have you any particular trade or pro- fession. perrie iM “ On’) yes. am independent, so far as that is concerned. . I am a detective, and devote my time to hunting down evil-doers.” ‘‘Indeed! I am proud to know you are poring. in so good a cause. Have you seen De Wolf, your cousin? De Wolf is my right- hand man.” ‘Yes, I have seen him, and my impression of him is hardly favorable. I should judge you needed a left-hand man to watch the right.” ‘* What! is it possible youdo not fancy De Wolf? He is a very influential citizen, here in Big Vista, and has the whole charge of my busi- ness.” ‘* You may regret having confidence in him,” the new nephew said. ‘‘ For my part, I do not take any stock in him, aud don’t care how soon he knows it.” petri, About the same hour that Miss Green was entertaining her visitor, we change the scene to Big Vista’s principal saloon, over the entrance to which was a sign bearing the inscription. “ FRENCH FAN'S ‘FIND '.” It was a big barn-like one-story affair, of bh lumber, with no floor other than the rocky level of the plateau upon which the town was built. There was the usual complement of chairs and tables, for the devotees of games of chance; there was a bar for the accommodation of the thirsty, and in one corner was a platform, where a vicious looking Italian was employed to grind out mannetee strains of music a nearly played-out hand-organ—which, by the way, was the best music the young camp could afford, or produce, the talent not running in that direction. As we enter the saloon, we find the occupants to be a crowd of miners and gamblers, the usual habitues of places of the kind. There were but few enga in games, the majority lounging about, here and there, smoking and drink ng and chatting. At one table De Wolf Deering was icone. idly drumming on the polished top, and allow- ing his to follow the graceful figure of the proprie of the place as she moved about. She was a young woman, not far out of her teens, evidently, and possessed of a petite, racefully-molded form, a fair, fascinating ace, with eyes and mouth to match, and dressed and looked all too prettily for the posi- tion she occupied. fe For, although no evil reports had ever assailed her, she was noted as an expert card-sharp and successful gambler. Then, too, she was a daring woman who had faced many a ruffian down with revolver, and several habitues of her establishment had in their checks, so to speak, through the medium of ber clever aim. So that, altogether, she was regarded by the peaceable portion of the community as a des- rate character, and generally avoided by em. Except for this prejudice there was noth- ing apparently, to cause any one to say that she was aught but a perfect Amy for such was her habitual demeanor, when not aroused to ond by some insult by those of the unruly audience who frequented her —_ As she sauntered around where Deering was,
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6 keeping an eye about the room, to see what wih tig on, he nodded to her, and said: “You seem to be idle, this afternoon?” ‘“‘- Yes, no business at all, tospeak of. Perhaps ou want to play? and @ musical laugh fol- wed her words. “Although always unlucky, when I pla with you, I am notafraid of you!” he peapetied: ‘*8it down, and while you win a V from me, I want to talk with you.’ “Very well. You can afford to lose money. But, for heaven’s sake don’t refer to your usual topic of conversation,” she said, seating herself opposite him, and producing a pack of cards. ‘You need not worry,” Deering answered ““T’ve given up loving any one but scowling. myself. ““A sensible resolution on your part; then, too, it saves me lots of pity for dots was her laughing declaration. ‘Really, Mr. so I wouldn't wed the richest and best man the world affords!” ace. we rag you would not,” he said, signifi- cantly. ‘“‘It was the atest service I.ever have done any one. And now, when in trouble, I believe you would be willing to help me.” “‘ Most certainly; what is it you want?” “Well, I'll tell you. You remember I told you Sierra Sam was about to come here, and that there was a prospect that my old aunt would put him in my place, because I’ve an idea she has ery pe that I do not deal hon- estly with her in regard to the financial man- es the mines.” “Yes. “*Well, this Sierra Sam has put in an appear- ance—not only once, but twice.” ‘““'Twice! How do you mean?’ a I po that there aay men in — w recisel n évery respect, an both, I hive no Youbt, will claim to be the original Sierra Sam.” “How strange. Which is right?” ‘That ai ~ to _ told. a are also two , Snodgrass by name, who are as ex- actly alike as the other two. One of these roughs is real; the other I have every reason to believe is the real Sierra Sam.” “* And you don’t know either of these respec- tive two es apart?” ‘“‘I donot. There is but one man who knows the two Sams apart.” “Who is that?” “ Junius Brutus Dunk.” “Ah! then perhaps he can give you the in- formation you want?” a he will not doso. He has a scheme on foot to fetch forward one of these men as the fal heir to'a of the wealth should Ta- i die. Which string he is working, I do not know. Headmits no knowledge of either man, or that he is interested in either. Now, I want to find out which is the genuine Sierra ee cousin, and I want you to do it for me, and mark himso I will know him. Then I'll settle the case of who is to be Tabitha Green’s heir in short order.” “ How am I todo this?’ “Tl leave that to your woman’s wit. You find out for me, and I'll give you five thousand dollars clear cash. You know lam for it. ‘Sh! as I live, here comes one of the ? They went to playing very briskly as Sisrra Sam came sauntering along, his movements characterized by grace and ease, and his face as handsome as was the usual wont of the famous frontier ferret. Leisurely along to the table he sauntered, and there paused, his hands carelessly locked behind his hips and a cigar in his mouth. ‘Well, what do you want?’ Deering growled, looking at him with a savage scowl. ‘Nothing cert aren at was the composed answer, ‘‘except that 1 observe you have one more ace of hearts in your hand than is allow- able in the general — of cards.” French Fan quickly reached over, snatchin the cards from Deering’s hand, and perceiv ye repens was right. z ‘ quickly arose, whipping a revolver from his hip holster. ie Sierra Sam kept his hands locked behind his back, a sarcastic smile w his face. “So you propose to shoot me, eh?’ he said, unconcernedly. : ‘*Ourse you, yes!” Deering howled, raising his hand and taking aim. But he didn’t fire. Sierra Sam's Pard. CHAPTER V. A STRANGE DUEL. THERE Came an interruption, in the shape of another pistol-shot, which struck the hammer of Deering’s weapon and smashed it, thereby making it for the time, worthless. The next instant, there sprung forward a irlish figure, clad in semi-male attire, and con- ronted the mine superintendent—a pair of six- shooters, cocked and leveled in her grasp. ‘Hey! hello thar, will ye!” she cried. ‘Shoot this purty feller, will ye? Well, I guess not, My name’s Trumps, se day ina week, and Pll jest hitch ontér ther Sport hyer, as a pard, and stand by him!” she cried. ‘*Cuss ye! what d’ye mean?’ Deering de- manded. ‘Put up your tools, and get out of here, or I will soon put you out!” “Bah! Who's afraid ot you? I ain’t!” Miss Trumps declared, emphatically. ‘I’ve seen a feller of about your size, before, and didn’t skeer fer a cent. D’ye want I should locate the meeting?” ‘Plt murder you, if you do,” Deering hissed. ‘Tl see you later, In the mean time, this tramp Owes me an a fe And he nodded to Sierra Sam. “In what way do 1 owe you an apology, pray?’ Sierra Sam queried, bis eyes scanning the face of Deering with a stern gaze. ‘Oh! for exposing his exceeding good hand!” French Fan said, laughing. Her eyes and the brilliant orbs of Sierra Sam then met, and seemed for the instant to read each other’s thoughts. Then the French beauty’s gaze dropped, and a soft flush suffused her cheek, in which the Californian read the secret of her instant ad- miration for him. ‘Exactly !” Deering announced, with an oath. ‘* You sailed in here and lipped into my game, an’ ye’ve got to apologize or give me satisfac- tion. D’ye know who I am? “You are my estimable cousin, judging by poe polished manner!” Sam replied, with bi ng sarcasm. ‘Then ye claim to be Sierra Sam, do you?’ Deering growled. ‘““Why, of course! Why not? The other in- dividual is an impostor!” ‘*So you say; what does he say?” ‘Don’t know, sir. I haven’tinterviewed him, as yet. Does he claim to be Sierra Sam?” “Yes, he does, an’ all I want to find out is, which is the genuine, I'll then make Big Vista too hot for him to live in it!” ‘Oh! will you? Why not proceed directly to business, then, for I am undoubtedly the genuine Slocum, of the Sierras.” “That remains to be proven, yet. However, you must apologize to me, or fight—take your choice. I never receive an insult without re- taliating, you bet!” ‘As your dutiful cousin, I must admire your grit, and if necessary, accommodate you. never apologize, without strong cause, so nomi- nate your weapons, and I’m ready. The soonzr I dis of you, the better show I shall stand of inheriting Aunt Tabitha’s gold mines.” “You'll never get ’em, nor the other feller, either!” Deering growled. ‘‘I do not care to have an open and disgraceful public fight, with you, sir, but I see that it is necessary.” ‘* Positively so,” Sierra Sam assured. ‘“I haven’t had.a good square row,:in over a month and rather do for you than most any man i know. A pretty wood way to settle, is to get up on top of the house ridge, and engage ina fist combat—the man who gets tumbled off the roof, to be considered the satisfied man. How does that strike you? It’s quite the favorite method up where I came from, as it is as fair for one as it is for the other, and at the same time pleases the boys. I’m in foranything that pleases the boys, you bet, or the girls, either!” ‘Good fer yer! You're a brick, and I’m your pard, shrdugh thick and thin!” cried Trumps, taking her place beside the: Sport. “What d’ye say, Serious—can’t I have that honor?” ‘* Well, that remains for you to say, as 1 am not personally forming partnersbips nowa- days! ’ Sam responded. ‘Ken’t help that, Sammy! I’m .a_ lone orphan, ’thout any big brother, an’ I’ve got to cling to some one, so I’d just as lief take you as any one else, I ain't afeared to sass or shute the biggest rough that ever walked, an’ when it comes to compaateeanne ag’in’ sich fellers as De Wolf Deering, I’m thar !” ‘‘ Well, usé your own judgment about your actions, and look out you don’t get the rival sons of the Sierras mixed up. what say?” Now, “You have the choice—we will a hn plan!” Deering answered. ‘‘I am ave so good a chance to make an exhibition of you. Meet me on the roof of this place half an hour hence.” ‘Kerect!” Sierra Sam assented, as the superintendent of Miss Tabitha Green’s mines left the saloon, The excitement now began to ripen. A duel, and especially one of stich a peculiar character, was not an everyday occurrence in Big Vista’s little out-of-the-way camp. It had already leaked out, pretty generally, concerning thé two Sierra Sams, and the object which brought them to Big Vista; consequently there was a growing curiosity among the citizens to know who really was Miss Tabitha Green’s nephew, and how the matter was destined to end. As soon as Deering was gone, French Fan walked over to a quiet part of the room, and motioned Sierra Sam to follow her, which he did, in some surprise. “Did you wish to speak to me?” he interro- gated watching her inquiringly. “Yes, I do,” she replied. ‘'I want you to take me into your confidence, and tell me for true and honest if you are the real Sierra Sam.” ] ; “Why do you ask? That is something which at present seems to be an interested question to some people.” “Task from simple curiosity. Then, too, if you are the genuine, it may be to your interest to prove it to me.” “T cannot see how. I claim to be the original Sierra Sam—otherwise, Sam Slocum. The other man claims likewise, and it remains to be seen which is right. Further, 1 have nothing to say on the subject, for the benefit of any one who may have designs to accomplish. hen the time comes, one of us will undoubtedly come in as successor of De Wolf Deering!” “You think he will be ousted then?” “I hope so, for he is an out-and-out rascal, and the law is likely to become interested in im “Oh! Isee. Humph!” She nodded, and smiled, knowingly—one of her fascinating smiles, which she appeared to know how to use with good effect upon the sterner sex. What her “ humph!” meant, Bamuel did not comprehend, but he came to the conclusion that she had formed an opinion, whatever it might be. “Well, I hope you will . Privately, between you and me, De Wolf Deering ht to be removed, and if you want a missing link to accomplish such an event, apply to me, and ” 7 i tog supply it. “Yes. I know it is Bag natural you — regard meas a suspicious person, g to my position here. But, in time you will change your estimation, and know that French Fan has a woman’s heart, a woman’s wit, and a woman’s honor.” “Your position here need not necessarily condemn you!” Sam declared. ‘‘I have known very estimable women to run places of this kind. You will excuse me, I . while I | prepare for the aerial meeting.” “Certainly, but will you for a moment, be- fore you 20, allow me to offer you a friend’s advice? First, look out for the fresh’ young woman who declares her intention of becoming your ‘pard.’ Snakes are numerous in the mountains wet seasons. Also, look out for an- other certain pretty young lady in this place, whom you may meet. though fair to out- ward view, take my word for it, you will find her far from being an “ig oot “Thank you; I will bear your advice in mind,” Sam answered, bowing himself away. rather glad to get out of the light of what he felt sure were a dangerous pair of eyes. “A devil, she, in fairy guise, yet pretty enough to adorn a castle!” was his inward com- ment, as he left the saloon to fulfill his engage- ment. The streot in front of the ‘‘ Find” wasalready crowded with miners, citizens and rougbs, the news of the house-top duel having already spread throughout the camp. > Deering was waiting in readiness, having sipped to the waist. © was a powerfully-built man, of exceeding muscular development, and “showed off” to advantage, and was surrounded by a crowd of his admirers. " : Sierra Sam surveyed him with a cynical smile, ‘ Hello! what’s the matter! Going in swim- ming!” he demanded, lighting a cigar. —<-
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“No—I’m going to knock you out of time, though!” Deering swore. . ‘‘ Get ready!” t all ready. You needn’t have taken off your clothing; you may need a feather-bed wrapped around you, to save you from getting your neck broke! The crowd laughed—at least a part did—and Deering gave vent to his enraged feelings in a sae ty 72 oaths, A der was provided, and the two men clambered up to the steep roof of French Fan’s Find, after which the Jadder was taken away. They soon gained standing positions upon the ridge, facing each other, and made a somewhat novel picture, considering the circumstances. At least, so it oe to the spectators, of whom the crowd below did not form the én- tirety. ‘ In front of Miss Green’s shanty stood Sierra 8am No. 2, and the ancient maiden lady herself. “You see it is as I told you,” No. 2 was saying. ‘This fellow who looks like me is a ruffian, and hearing, of me, undoubtedly comes to dispute my right as being your nephew, thereby thinking to have me ous and estab- lish himself, with a view to the future—some- thing I never even consider.” In front of the “‘post-offis” stood Miss Angel and a very superannuated individual of cadav- erous countenance by the name of Junius Bru- tus Dunk. “Oh! Mr. Dunk, are they really going to ht?’ pretty Miss Angel asked, anxiously. ““Yes—you see for yourself. The fellow went into Fan’s and insulted Deering, and he challenged him to fight. If Iam not mistaken Mr. Sam will get his fill.” ‘*Pshaw! I don’t believe it. Mr. Dunk, which is the real Sierra Sam?” The lean man smiled. “Tf I know, it’s my secret, till I make a spec’ gat of it. So long as all other eyes can discover diterenee hetyrrn Pa Ses my A am not go- expose the im r for nothing. You are a bad man, Mr. Dunk.” “Pooh! no!” ‘Then tell me this: which.man are you put- ting forward—the right or the wrong? ““ Ask the winds—not me. Watch the actin —for it must be acting on the part of one. you find out, I'll treat. Ah! look—they strike of professi attitude now. They'll get down I directly ; hope Deering will get punished,” Angel Upon the ridge of the roof, stood Sierra Sam and De Wolf Deering, ready to decide the strange contest. “How is this to be?’ Sam asked, loud enough so that his words could be heard below, ‘Hit as you can—catch as you can!’ Deer- ing replied. ‘‘I only want one whack at you!” ‘You may not get even that,” Sam replied coolly. The an, sparring—that is to say, care- fully “‘ feeling” each other, Deering was dark and sinister in appearance —a malicious, vengeful light, burning in his eyes. : Sierra Sam was calm and calculating, a faint expression of reckless confidence upon his handsome face, He wore his boots, while Deering was in his stocking feet, which gave him a decided advan- e upon the slippery roof, fter several minutes of sparring Sam got in a hefty blow upon bis adversary’s nose, which nearly upset him, and caused the blood to flow, freely. ** s on your soul!” Deering gasped, re- covering his equilibrium, with an effort. “Tl tear your heart out!” He rushed forward and grasped Sam around the waist, and attempted to burl him from the roof, but failed, The Californian tore loose his opponent’s grasp with a powerful effort—then, with a sudden movement, which astonished the spectators and caused them to hold their breath, he raised Deering bodily in his arms, as though he had been an infant, and dashed along the roof. What was he about to do? A hundred such queries passed among the as- tounded spectators; they’ fairly stood on tip- toe in their eagerness to know the result. At the middle of the ridge, was a large chim- ney, with a cavernous Opening, which com- municated with a large open fire-place, in the saloon below. Straight to this chimney the dare-devil Cali- rita bore his pean te apy oF later, de- spite his most des efforts, Veerin raised, andchucked down the dhinuhey, “hued. foremost! Sierra Sam’s Pard: While Sierra Sam sprung into the air, turned a double summerset, and landed safely upon his feet_on the ground among the crowd! “Was it done fair, gents?’ he demanded, a moment later, with the utmost coolness. ‘He said catch-as-you can!” The majority of the crowd gave a yell of as- t ‘*On course et war fair—fair as ther fairy thet tempted old Adam!” cried a stentorian voice, and, Snodgrass the Snorter pushed for- ward, ‘‘Sam’), ye durned long-haired galoot, ef evyer I wanter die suddint, Pll choose atwixt you an’ greased lightnin’. Gents, et war all did as fair as evyer my old hoss did kick, an’ I propose we form inter a cor’ners jury, an’ sot upon the Deering defunct!” ‘'Phat’s not necessary!” the girl, Trumps, cried. ‘‘ Heer he cums, now. Oh! my!” It was so, Deering emerged from the saloon, at this {unchaNe. but such a sorry-looking wretch of cg had never before been seen, in Big ta. He was perfectly black, from top to toe, with soot; his left arm hung limp and useless, by his side; the hair was nearly singed off his head, and his face somewhat burned. There chanced to be a small fire in the fire- place at this time, which had done the latter mischief. ‘Where is Sierra Sam?’ he roared, as the crowd gazed at him. Ay, where was Sierra Sam? The crowd looked around among themselves and echoed the query, for as if by magic had the Californian mysteriously disappeared. CHAPTER VI. A STRIKE. Yrs, the son of the Sierras who had been the cause of De Wolf Deering’s woeful a had as ah and m daridesly vanished from view asif the earth had opened and swallowed m. But he had not flown to escape Dearing, vy any means, for he stepped out of the “Find an instant later, a smile upon his face. ““Well, cuz, how do ha feel? Sorry to see ou have fared so badly!” ‘he'said, surveying he discomfited villain laughingly—for Deering really did present a most grotesquely used-up a rance. ‘ Ceres you! ava. eb Yosh with ou - er Deer responded, a . “Your life- shall Hay for the insult, mark my word!” Then, mee delivered himself of the threat, he turned and limped away toward bis shanty, followed by a laugh from the crowd. He heard the laugh, and turned to shake his fist back at his tormentors. ‘* We'll pay for that laugh,” one miner said, dubiously. ‘*How do you mean?” another demanded. ‘* What kin the boss do?” “Yell see! Ye remember we laffed at him once afore, an’ hé cut down our wages, twenty- five cents on the dollar!” “Bab! he dassent do it, now! He’s got reason to go slow, now!” and the speaker cast a glance at Sierra Sam No. i “*Ken’t Searaaih believe itll hinder his spite. Jest you watch out fer'a sign at the office, o’ pee: r ¢ent! redtiction |” * Durn my skin if I'll stand it!” ‘Nor I,” put in one of the oldest gang bosses in Big Vista. “‘We’re workin’ fer durned low wages, now. Why, the men up at Flumeville aire gittin’ more than tis since we were cut down!” “On Course!” assented another. ‘An’ I tell ye what, I don’t believe old Tabitha knows a thing about the former cut. Et jest strikes me that ring is putting the ‘cut’ money in his own ket.” ‘Sh! better not let the boss heer o’ these sus- picions,” added still another miner. “He is powerful, ye know, an’ things generally goes ther way he wants.” “'Tain’t goin’ ter be so, allus!” old Stockton; the veteran gang-boss ted. “Right yon- der, ter my notion, stands the kerect Sam Slocum, an’ ef he be ther genywine, he’s a man every inch 0’ him, an’ I’d not hesitate ter foller his lead.” The speech had a powerful-effect on the little knot of miners who were discussing the’ prob- able turn of De Wolf Deering’s anger, and they eyed Sierra Sam curiously as the graceful sport leaned against one corner of the saloon smoking. ‘Ye think that’s the guy ine do you?” a miner nam rham asked. rn “ ve “In truth I do,” Stockton protested. 7 heerd 0’ this Sierra Sam afore, an’, this feller suits the description to a dot-—~coo] ‘as a,cucum- ber, and handsome as a Hercules, and brave to a fault.” : ‘ ‘* But hev ye seen t’other feller?” . ' ‘‘Yas—thar he is, over at old Tabitha’s now, a-tryin’ ter git in his work of establishin’ him- self, afore this chap offers any opposition,” ‘“Do the: two look alike?’ “ Alike as two peas. I can’t tell ’em apart, so far as looks is concerned!” Stocktom replied. “Then, why not:mark this feller -byar? We ‘ar want to use him.” e idea seemed’ to: strike the group favor- ably—all except Stockton, who shook his head grimly. “Thet won't do, b’yees, fer et’s dangerous ter fool around him. Jest wait. Devil Deering lowers wages, I fer one 0’ ye will strike —then it will be time enough to.call upon him.” The rar to strike came, as one of the miners had prophesied: Deering went from the saloon’ first) of all, to the superintendent’s office, of which he had con trol, and soon after a placard was tacked, by him on the outside of the door, after which he betook himself to his cabin to make some re- pairs in his appearance. Stockton and several other miners, as soon as they discovered the placard, went over to the office, which was situated in one end of the ore- mill, and perused the notice with lively interest. This was what they read: | “NOTICE! “On and after this date, all the men employed in the interests of Tabitha Green, as , millers, bullwhackers and operatives; will. be: subject to reduction in wages, of twenty-five percent. of for- mer prices. “Dr Wotr Deere, Supt.” ‘Thar! didn’t I tell ye?’ exclaimed Drake, the man who had first forewarned the result of the crowd’s laugh at Deering’s:expense. ‘‘ Ye see et war jest as I told ye, don’t ye?’ ‘* Yas, an’ et’s aes Neo tock'ton gro ‘Ther durned tyrant won’t make his work! Hurra! Jet’s canvass'ther town, and: sve how many will strike fer better wages!” It was a thrilling hoor. The canvass was actively begun, and men hurried to and fro excitedly. ‘ The news of the reduction was carried: into the shafts, where the day. were at work, and two-thirds of the number immediately quit work, shouldered’ their tools, amd trudged up the drifts into the towm By the time night had fairly dawned over » the cloud city, and the moonlight had beautfied the —— natural vistas that stretched away to the eastward, the single street was crowded with an populace, and every «mouth hel oe or the Babel of : “a rra m™m . appened along about thi time, near Miss Angel’s cigar store, and found that pretty nage a the doorway, surveying the assembling of the populace, with a face expressive of ous surprise, and:eyes glowing grandly. | i ’ “Ob! sir!” she exclaimed, as she saw: the Californian, ‘will _ be so kind as’ to tell me what is the matter?” we gahiieds ‘*Certainly. There is a strike impending, 1 —s awe my the ‘su dent, as reduced wages,” Sam replied, not*particu-) larly sorry that she had yen ahidias an oppor- tunity to pause in bis stroll. | : 3 “Oh! how mean!” cried Angel. :‘*It as: justi ashame: The miners of Big Vista:are not get- ting nearly so much as. those of: Fiumeville, as it is, without this second reduction,” “So I am aware,” Sam assented. «‘! It seenis like tyranny on the part of Deering to try and grind his employes down, inorder that he may personally pocket the more.” ““Oh! that’s bis lay-out every day ina week,” the girlaverred. “‘ The strike is:apt to help you, is it not? The men will naturally want a leader; and who is more desirable: than the future heir of Aunt Tab?’ ‘‘Humpb! You remember there are two heirs, apparently—perhaps it would be better to say three caudidates.” “Pooh! Let every one have their own opin- ion—I have mine. Haveacigar?” || And Miss Angel stepped briskly into the store, behind the counter, and set forth a box of Reinas. For Sam to have refused would ‘have. been ungentlemanly, and besides, he was quite enam- ored of the pretty postmistress Ls She put him much in mind of Capitola, a former flame, who had jost herself from him somewhere in the broad West, and left a tinge of regret to gnaw away at bis heart-strings. angry
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8 “J think you will find those very pleasant cigars,” Angel chatted on. ‘‘ Do you think the strike will last long? You know the majority of the miners who have famflies, have nothing to depend on but their daily earnings, and the loss of pay will go hard with them.” “f do not anticipate any protracted dif- ficulty!” Sam answered. ‘‘ Probably the men will set to work again by Miss Green’s orders.” ‘Ah! Why do you not call her aunty?” and Angel laughed, rather og tee <b “Oh! time enough for that, when she recog- nizes me as her beloved nephew, Sammy!” he assumed, dryly. “At the present time, my rival seems to have the advantage grip, by having got into the graces of the much-coveted maiden aunt. It may signify that I’m left— again, it may not.” “TJ sincerely hope you are not. It would seem nice to have a gentleman in Deering’s ey By the way, you rather got the best of im in the fight.” “ Well I don’t know. I tossed him down the chimney, to see how he would look blacked-up, in minstrel style, and I guess he got rather the worst part of the duel. A doctor and a bottle of hair-restorer, will put him to rights, however, I think.” Angel laughed, merrily. An observer would have argued that she was a strong admirer of the sturdy Californian; while he felt a decided liking growing upon him, for the pretty distributor of Uncle Sam's mail, whose free and artless manner was a suf- ficient guarantee of her purity. At this juncture, old Stockton, the gang-boss, thrust his head in at the door. “T say, Cap, d’ye mind givin’ me a private grip on yer ear, fer a minnit or two?” he asked. ‘* Well, providing you'll not decapitate my organ of hearing, I don’t know that I can ob- ject,” Sam returned, with a e. Then nodding to Angel, and giving her an ad- miring glance, he followed the old miner out into moonlight. Not far away a little group of a dozen miners were evidently waiting for them, but Stockton bap me before he reached them. “ Now, see hyar, boss,” he said, ‘‘I s’pose a knowin’ to Deering’s spite on us, ’case we i —_ « his predicament, B. meet = cub us down on wages. ye that considerin’ “ y ” Sam replied. * That’s jest our notion, an’ thar’s a part o’ us wat ain’t a-goin’ ter it. We've thar- fore struck for higher wages, an’ we want a capt’‘in. You're ther chap who orter hev charge, in Deering’s place, an’ we’re willin’ ter back through.” ‘* You take too much stock in an utter stran- You have no surety but what I’m an im- postor!” Sam s ted. “‘ Pl) stake my life that you’re the real Sierra all o’ my thinkin’! the ‘An’ so we’re anxious ter movement?” ‘‘No. Thar’s a lot on ’em—mostly roughs, who sw’ar they'll stand by Deering, through thick and thin; so it’s about tie who will go work and who won’t. Deering’s men aire chaps who hold ther softest snaps so fur as work is concerned.” Sierra Sam was silent a few moments; he was evidently cousidering m stters. “Well, I don’t knov as 1 can refuse you, since you have chosen me as your leader,” he said, “ but I want you to understand one thing —you must not kick if itis proven that I am not the genuine Sierra Sam!” “Nary a kick! [Til vouch every man will stand by ye like a brother, fer we're all satisfied you're the genuine, an’ no sorter proof won't convince us otherwise. Et’ll bard wi’ Big Vista, ef ye ain’t given a fair shake, or my name ain’t old Stump Stockton!” | ad to see you’ve got the true metal!” Sam asserted, Loge aig ge veteran’s hand, ‘and here’s to say. that I'll do my level best b: you. Socall your men together, and we will or , 30 to speak, and see what is best to do!” tockton ambled off in high glee, and soon, one by one, had the men gathering about the handsome, fearless son of the Sierras, When all were collected there was indeed a motley assemblage, in which was represented many types of the human countenance. ne Oe ee eee Sierra Sam’s Pard. Sam looked them all over from his position upon a little elevation or knoll above them— noted cach face and memorized its lineaments and character lines; then turned to old Stock- ton. “ These are the men, Mr. Stockton, who have seen fit to bestow upon me the honor of being their leader?” he asked. Stockton had no need to answer. The crowd gave vent toa hearty shout of assent that sig- nalized their acceptance. ‘Yas, them’s the la as good as old Tabitha answered, oy “‘T am sure of that, and proud to have the honor of commanding you, gentlemen, in a just cause—that of a revolt against tyranny!” the Californian said. ‘‘ And to handle this case in a careful and judicious manner, boys, it be- comes us to act as one person, all together, and as brothers. We must form our plans and ful- fill them. But before any plans are formed, does it not behoove us to make sure there are no enemies among us, who will profit by our con- ference?” an’ I opine they’re all reen’s gold,” Stockton CHAPTER VII. SAM AND TABITHA. Ir was something that probably few of the strikers would have thought of. “Youre right,” old Stockton announced; *‘ jest. let me look through ther crowd, an’ I'll soon tell ye ef all present can be depended upon. He looked them over, one by one, and soon came to the long, ang figure of Junius Brutus Dunk. ‘Aha! you're heer, aire ye?” the veteran ex- claimed. ‘ Ye’re heer; a-tryin’ ter poke yer nose into our business, alre ye?” ‘“‘Oh, no! Llamona e, too,” the caday- erous man decl A ‘*' Yas, I see you aire, in a horn!” Stockton retorted. ‘So am I, an’ ef ye don’t dust right along out o’ this vicinity, I'll strike ye so hard ye won’t never be able to collect yer bones to- gether again!” “Then you won’t take me in?” ‘No, we won't! You're a sneakin’ rascaland as treacherous as a Snake Injun, an’ ye can’t hang around this crowd.” ‘‘ Very well. I’ve no desire to stay where I am not wanted,” the villain said, and he forth- with trudged vig Stockton then finished his inspection of the crowd, and declared that all the rest could be set down as ‘‘solid” to the interests of the ‘Well, then, we will. proceed to business,” Sem said). “I believe wenll understand that-t, Sierra Sam, am chosen leader in this move- ment.” The men gave a hearty “‘ Ay!” There could be no doubt of their indorsement Pe ithat one ” Sam “T shall ff case,” pursu f for your welfare alone, rep andeestenl i from Stockton, you have, as a body, decided not to go to work at any price, until Miss Tabitha im bees ae ata a new superintendent for her mines?” “You bet! that’s ther ticket precisely,” old Stockton declared, and the men his sen- timents. ‘‘Nary a whack of a pick will we give till we git Flumeville wages and a new superin- tendent.” “Very well. Now I reckon the best thing I can do for you is to personally visit Miss Green in your be and lay the matter before her. I’ve an idea she may be dealt with in this way. But first of all, you will have to nominate whom you want to fill Deering’s place.” “You! you!” shouted Stockton. “You, of course! Hurra fer Sierra Sam the original!” shouted miner Durbam. nd the others echoed the two speakers’ choice clamorously. “No, gentlemen; I cannot agree to that!” Sam returned, quickly. ‘‘I have no desire to crowd myself forward into Miss Green’s affairs in this way. I propose that your gang-boss here is the proper man to hold the position of superintendent, He is evidently a veteran at the mining business, and with your approval I shall be glad to "e forward his name.” The hb hit the rough audience in a tender spot. Stockton evidently had been thought of, but had been ruled out, out of deference for the new captain, whom all seemed desirous of honoring with the position, Therefore, a cheer went up, and Stockton was boisted upon the shoulders of a number of miners and marched about, While this was going on, Sierra Sam an- nounced his intention of freee, | Aunt Tabitha, to see what could be done with her. Thus the meeting broke up, and he took his win to the Green residence, in behalf of the kers. He half expected his rap at the door would be answered by De Wolf ing, but such was mo are case. Clad anid e sable servant, Claudie, soon ap ; and as soon as he saw the Californian, opened the door to admit him, evidently mistaking bim for Sierra Sam number two. ‘“‘ Bbenin’, Marse Sam!” he said, bowing low. “Been out for a walk?” “Ves, rather,” Sam replied, dropping into thefsituation gracefully, and tossing Claudie a cigar. Show me into aunty’s presence, please.” “Right yar, sah!” the worthy darky said, opening the door of Miss Green’s sitting-room. ‘Walk in, sah!” Sam did walkin. ‘‘Now for it,” he said to himself—greatest composure must go with shrewd carefulness, in order for him to play his rival’s part. Miss Green was seated in her comfortable chair, engaged with crochet work, and looked up with a welcome smile, as Sam entered, seated himself, and tossed his hat upon the sofa, “Well, have you been out for a stroll, Sammy?” she asked, pleasantly, looking inguir- ingly at him, through her glasses. ‘'Yes, I’ve been up to see how the strike is essing.” ‘“Well, how do things look, dear?” ‘Bad. I fear all will not be as well as I first anticipated. It may end in bloodshed, for all I know.” ““Oh! dear. It is too bad.” ‘“Yes. I think there is only one way to set- tle it. Deering is not a favorite, with the majority of the men, and they swear they'll not go to work until he is removed, and old St m put in his place, and their wages raise to Flumeville prices. So they enlisted me to come and lay the facts before Kits You? bid'/ I thought that they were try- ing to league hemselves with the pretending Sierra Sam, who abused De Wolf!” ‘They elected him their captain, because he believed their demands were just and fair. [ am the Sierra Sam you just referred to as pre- tending, and I am the genuine original Sam Slocum, too, you bet!” Miss Green fairly with amazement, and rubbed her glasses, in order to get.a better look at him. “Do tell!” she exclaimed. “ Why, I did really think you were my nephew Sammy, who went out for a stroll.” “Bol ae Prva nephew, Sammy, but not the sleek-tongued impostor who has visited you, ahead of me, and tried‘to palm himself off on you as the real Samuel Slocum.” “This is very strange, sir. How am I to know which of youis basely deceiving me?” “That, you must judge for yourself,” Sam answered. ‘It is a strange fact that we closely resemble each other, and, therefore, no wonder that the other man should wish to step into our shoes when you get ready to step out, As ‘or myself, I will have nothing to do with your affairs, further than to prevent you, so far asin my power, from fostering a lying humbug. y rofessional services b ng me in sufficient wealth, for my moderate demands, and I have no desire to become your heir—i I will not. So please understand that. +, NOW, as I came in behalf of the miners, please let me know what you pose to do.” ; os ay old that matter under care- ‘*T shall have ful consideration,” Miss Green said, rather stiff ly. “This matter of rivalry I chall also con- lier, but I may as well tell you that I have no faith in your claims. The otber gentleman seems the most like my dear dead sister’s child.” “Allright! Suit yourself, and you will suit me,” Sam declared, arising. ‘‘The man r- ing is a consummate rascal, and the sooner ou get rid of him the more riches you will ave to bestow upon the Sam’! of your choice.” Then, with a bow,-the Californian left the room, leaving the maiden mine-owner to her own reflections. If he had succeeded in accomplishing no more, he had at least let her know his opinion. If she would profit by it or a hecould not tell, but he was determined that Sierra Sam number two should not reign as owner of the Big Vista mines without a struggle. f Later that night Big Vista was wrapt in si- ence,
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eed The street was cleared of its usual throng of miners, the saloons were shut up, and slamber seemed to overhang the mountain town. But aia? one slumbered not. Just w the level of the great plateau where the town was built, and at one side of the tortuous descending stage trail, stood an old old cabin, which was partly overgrown with moss and vines, and deserted. The windows were boarded up, and upon the door was nailed white board, upon which was painted in letters lof black the single word: “ SMALL-POX.” The history of the old ranch was unknown, W ben some lone Loge conga first discovered gold where now stood Big Vista, the old cabin had stood just where it stood now, and the same sign was upon its door. he usua! invasion of miners followed, but no one had ever disturbed the small-pox cabin, so far as was known, [t is well known by those who are acquainted with Western bp that as a rule they have a great terror of small-pox, and rarely go nearer to where it has ever raged than is absolutely necessary. The Big Vistans were no exception to the rule, and whenever called upon to pass the ranch, they did so in double-quick time. Even Jebu Jack always drove faster than usual while passing the place, and being of a waggish disposition, often added to the offend- ing cabin’s notoriety by telling of hearing aw- fu — and groans when making night trips past it. To-night the moon’s bright rays streamed down upon the place with rather spectral effect, and the breeze sighed under the eaves of the slab roof with a lonely sort of moan. At such an hour human presence could hardly have been e in the vicinity, yet from the direction of the towu came a black-clad figure down the trail, and paused in front of the cabin door. A person of medium stature was this, clad from 1 to toe in a coarse somber black, with a full black mask upon the face, black gloves ae the hands, and a black sombrero upon the 1ead, Upon the breast of the closely-buttoned coat was a brass letter ** A.” i front of the cabin paused this figure, and wa Evidently some one else was expected, judg- ing by his glances up the trail. ae n another man came down the tra‘l, and joined the first one in front of the cabin. Exactly like the first did this second person look, his whole pears appearance being the —o except that on his coat was a brass letter “ What's the’ matter with C to-night?” A growled as B came up. “Don’t know. In love, I expect,” was the laconic answer. “Bah! there’s no time for love affairs now. Business before pleasure,” was the retort. pee sem re ees soon e his appearance from the direction of Big Vista, and joined the other two, then the door of the cabin was opened, and the trio en- tered, closing the door r them. A dark place it was, but a lantern was soon produced and lit, which lightened up the gloom. It wasall in one room, in the center of which was a table, with three stools by it. In one corner was & coffin-shaped box, set upon two wooden horses, and the box covered over with a large somber blanket, Just across the room in another corner stood a fleshless, grinning skeleton. Upon its breast some person had hung a placard, which read: “I died of small-pox.” In ane to those uninviting relics, roan was a musty disagreeable odor to the place, which added to its somberness, . The Black Trio did not appear to be disturbed by the surroundings, however, for they took seats about the table, and around a small bottle of’ wine, until each had taken a swallow. ** Well, here we are once more,” A said, after the bottle was put away. “‘Let’s get down to business.” head,” B siet. dive a replied, mmin ‘ aN I’ve learned nothing.” ory ne I,” C declared, “‘more than we sus- pec “Tt is queer,” A added, impatiently. “The man we want—the man we came to Big Vista to entrap, is in the town, and yet, not in our power, } a . ‘Sierra Sam’s Pard. ** Because we’re not certain which he is,” C declared, son “We each have our sus- picions and yet we hate to precipitate matters, war bee? & Woke tp ks” lok ‘ here! spoke u —**let us un- derstand each other, ight in love with bon genuine Sierra Sam—you need not deny t! “Tt depends Wipe which Sam you take for the original,” C said. ‘* You know which one I mean,” A declared; ‘*so admit the corn.” “Tam not ashamed to admit that I never was more impressed with a person,” C con- fessed, with a slight laugh. ‘‘ And you are in the same predicament, ?” “Tam!” B admitted. ‘* You had better con- fess a similar weakness yourself, my fair A.” **T do—I never met a man before whom 1] could not steel my heart against. So we are all infatuated with this one man? Well, well, this will not do at all! We did not come here to Big Vista to become fools. We came here to capture a shark for a reward, and that’s what we must do.” ** Correct!” assented B. ‘But that has noth- po $3 do with love matters. We three have got to divide, that’s flat, or else give up loving, and stick to our vows of allegiance.” “Who is willing to give in? that’s the ques- tion,” C demanded, Not I, for one!” “Nor any of us,” A responded, “I think I stand the best chance of winaing the day!” Both C and B laughed sarcastically at this. ‘* Tf Sierra Sam were here, perhaps he might be able to decide for himself better than any of us,” C suggested, taking a sensible view of the matter. ** At this juncture a faint cough was heard. “‘Eavesdroppers!” cried A, and the next instant the trio were upon their feet, with cocked revolvers in their grasp, A moment later the robe was thrown off the comme anid Sierra Sam leaped out upon the oor. The weapons of the Black Trio instantly covered him, and A cried out: “Halt! You are our prisoner!” “Ts that so?’ was Sam’s rejoinder, ‘ Judg- ing by what I have just overheard, I couldn’t have fallen into more affectionate hands.” ‘** That remains to be seen!” A retorted sternly. “You have discovered a part of our secret, and, therefore, your mouth must be sealed. Do ou w what must be done to accomplish result?” **Can’t say as I do,” Sam replied. “Well, I'll inform you. Before you ever leave this place alive, you must marry one of us. Here we are—you shall have your choice, Is this satisfactory, B and C?” Those personages nodded assent! For once Sam’l of the Sierras wished the earth would open up and swallow him, or his trio of admirers. CHAPTER VIII, A BLIND CHOICE. Sierra’s habitual composure was nothing daunted, “ Well!” he said, with a grim sort of humor * you seem to have the matter all cut and dri amas yourselves?” “Yes, we at present have the whip-row, and it becomes necessary for us to improve it while wecan. If you listen, I will explain.” Sam nodded his willingness, and so Letter A continued: “Well, to begin with, you behold in us the Sisters Sarony, otherwise the Black Trio, fe- male detectives; formerly there were four of us, but the foul hand of a traitor took one off, leaving but us three, bound together by a terribie tie, to avenge our sister’s death, if, we have to follow her murderer to the end of the earth, our unison to be unbroken until the mission is f ed, ‘**But, just now arises adilemma. When we fancy we have our man safely caught, another of precisely similar ap nce comes forward; there are two men in the field; we do not know which is our enemy owing to their perfect re- semblance to each other. “‘Then, I suppose I am one of the two,” Sam remarked, unconcernedly, “Yes, you are the one suspected, and accord- ing to our oath, it would be our duty to see that you never saw the open air again—certainly not until we were satisfied to a certainty whether you were really our man or not. But, now, either you must die, or become one of us by marriage, the consummation of which shall seal your lips as regards us, until you or the 9 ———> other man is discovered to be owr man. This marriage, of course, is to be a matter of for- mality only, it being an agreement that your bride shall never be known to you, except as ‘ou select her here, unless, after our job is done, it is your wish to take her to your heart, and love her, and care for and protect her.” “Well, then it’s settled I've got to hitch on to one of you r ‘“*‘Humph! how do you know you are right. Maybe you are loving the other Sierra Sam?” ‘““We will run our chances on that,” A re- sponded. ‘ Our woman’s instinct tells us which one you are,” “Well, in case I pick out one of you fair damsels, not knowing bbe P neg are—how is the ceremony to be performed ‘‘One of us will do it. We either huve the authorized power. So make your choice; then you must be sworn in, and married. The night is getting well along.” je took out and lit a cigar, and regarded the three Sisters Sarony, closely. “One of you is French Fan, another is Trumps, my declared pard, and the other Angel, of the post-office!” be said, finally. ‘Now, can’t you tell which is which, so I can choose to wy, own liking?’ he Black Trio shook their heads, in concert. They stood in line fecing him, now, and looked as nearly alike as was possible. ‘Well, in that case, I suppose I shall have to go it blind. I don’t know one of you from the other, but on the venture, I shall choose C!” There was a moment’s silence; then A ad- vanced to the table, and took a book from a drawer a small Testament. “Do you swear by your hope of Heaven, Sierra gam, to keep secret all the knowledge that has come into Pha d possession to-night, and to take, hereby, this girl, Letter C—otherwise Stella Sarony—as your lawfully wedded wife, and to love, cherish, protect and support her?” A asked solemnly. ‘tT do!” Sam answered, resolved to see the thing through to the end. A raised the Testament to his lips, and then put out her band, “ Allow me to congratulate you at the ex- pense of myself and sister B!” she said, with attempted heartiness, but with a slight tremor in her voice, ‘‘I assure you that you now have three pards who will stand by you to the end, unless you should prove to be our man. Then, love, hope and friendship must be crushed by the avenging triple-clasped hands of the three Sisters ny! You are at liberty to Bo, sir.” ‘Rather, yourselves,” Sam returned, “as I have concluded to make this my head-quarters, for the present.” ““Oh! well, such being the sant will bid you good-evening,” A assented, whereupon the strange trio filed out of the cabin. They departed as they had come; A went first, and as soon as sho was out of sight, B fol- lowed suit, leaving C last, She turned, as soon as her sister had started, — laced her small gloved hand in the Cali- ornian’s. ‘Good-night, Mr. Slocum,” she said, earnest- ly et in a voice that Sam failed to nize, ay you regret the proceedings of to-night, let me reassure you, for, except at your own rclici- tation, you will never be asked to keep your romise; nor will any of your plans ever be in- fered with. All luave tosay is—your choice will never hate you.” She turned, then, and followed the other. ‘* Wonders will never cease,” the bewildered detective muttered. ‘‘Sam’l, you’re a Bene- dict, at last, and don’t know who your wife is!” Morning dawned at Big Vista and saw the street once more alive with men, most all of whom were strikers. Deering’s crowd also was abroad, but held closely together in the vicinity of the mouth of the drifts, or entrance into the mines, evidently determined to keep the strikers away from the subterranean chambers which yielded gold to Miss Tabitha Green. Deering was about town, once more, He had had the hair and beard all shaved off his head and face, what the fire had not burnt off, and carried his arm ina sling; therefore, he present- ed a slightly better appearance than when he emerged from his chimney adventure. Sierra Sam arrived in camp, shortly after sunrise, looking as fresh, handsome and com- posed as was usual with bim. He met Deering in the Find, and dropped into a Sona opposite the superintendent’s seat at a e.
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gloomy. 10 “Nice morning!” Sam remarked. at Y Deering replied, with sneering emphasis. ‘“How about the strike—looks like no work, for the present, don’t it?’ from Sam. “Thanks to you, yes,” “‘To me? Pshaw! I did not suggest the strike. You were the cause. I saw Tabitha, and I see she is inclined to consider matters.” ‘‘ What, at your instigation?” “Ob no! She don’t seem to take much stock in me. The other galoot has got the whip row, I surmise.” Deering grinned, maliciously. ‘You'll neither of you succeed in displacing me!” he growled. He then arose and took his departure, evi- dently not cariag to have any further confer- ence with his pany, Ms (am antagonist. Old Stockton came into the saloon, soon after, his furrowed visage looking rather “ Et’s goin’ to be fun, bymeby,” he announced, pausing <S Sam. ‘*They’re talkin’ bade on other side, I heer, and propose pitchin’ inter us, an’ drivin’ us out 0’ town.” ‘Let ’em piteh. I reckon they'll get their fill of it,” Sam replied. ‘‘ Just tell the boys to be easy, keep their mouths shut and eyes open, and we'll see. I’ve an idea I shall learn some news, before long.” “You calculate they'll try to run in a gang o’ Flumeville loafers, to fill our places?’ the veteran asked, with perceptible anxiety. “Possibly. Iam preparing for the reception of such news, and likewise preparing to stop such an invasion, so far as lies in my power.” Stockton departed, but Sam wai to finish his cigar, before appearing on the street. While thus engaged, French Fan sauntered along, dusting off the tables as she came. “A very pleasant morning, Mr. Slocum!” she accosted, not looking directly at him. “Very!” Sam replied, emphasizing the word. “‘ An auspicious morning for a newly married or to start on a bridal tour, eh?’ She laughed lightly, and a curious flush which he could not in- came to her chee terpret. ‘Yes, indeed!” she returned. ‘Are you contemplating such a tour?’ “Well—ahem! hardly,” Sam responded. “I believe it is customary for a man to have a partner in such trips, which I have not.” ‘“You are unfortunate,” she smiled, and passed on. “Ts that the woman I[ took?” Sam asked him- self, when she was gone. ‘‘If so, she’s as care- ful as a fox about fake he herself. Most men would be proud of suc a beasty” After finishin - his cigar, he went to the post- office, where tue telegraph instrument of the line running from Big Vista to Flumeville was located. To his surprise, he found Trumps behind the counter, in place of Miss Angel, who was no- where visible. “ Hello! A new clerk, eh?’ the Californian interrogated, surveying her in some surprise. “You bet! This just suits yer pard!” was the jolly response. ‘‘ What d’ye want—shake for the cigars?” ‘Hardly, Miss Sarony,” Sam replied. ‘‘I desire to use the telegraph instrument, a few en “Oh! do yow tele ? you three bits.” scr Sam sat down at the table, and soon had com- munication opened with Flumeville, through Well, it will cost | Deakin the operator at the other end of the | line. “There’s a strike here,” Sam telegraphed, “and Sierra Sam is at the head of the strikers, | Do you know if any movement is on foot for a | gang to come here? ‘One Deering has telegraphed, offering extra | wages for a hundred men!” was the reply that was flashed back. “Then, please post a placard from me, giving the boys warning that if they come here to replace us, they come at the peril of their lives,” Sam instantly wired back. “I am Sierra Sam!” Miss Tabitha Green had a morning caller, that morning, whom Claudie ushered into her cosey little sitting-room. This visitor was none other than the Reverend Obediah’ Potts, to whom reference was made in another chapter. He looked even more sleek and ministerial, than during his ride to Big Vista, on the night of the stage-coach robbery. ** Ab! excuse me, my dear Miss Green,” he said, when he found himself in the maiden Sierra Sam’s P lady’s presence, nize me?” "No sir, I do not, though my eyes are not very :ood, which may make all the difference,” Miss Green answered, smoothing out her apron and looking very demure. “The loss of one’s sight is a sad, sad calamity,” Obediah observed, wiping his own green gog- gles, without taking them off. ‘“‘I know how ‘*T presume you do not recog- | to sympathize with you, dear Miss Tabitha. | Pp And, by the way, it’s many long years since we last met, Tabitha, up in the green-crowned asture scenes of old Vermont.” “* Do tell!” Miss Green gasped, all in a flutter. “You don’t mean to tell me you came from Vermont, sir?” “Verily I didst, Tabitha—right from Merino Center, which used to be the abiding-place of our early years. Is it possible you do not remember me, Tabitha? Doth thy heart not recall when thy maiden heart once beat against my manly young breast—” ‘Obediah Potts! Can it be possible?” ‘Ay, all things can be possible, Tabitha,” and the new-comer pressed Miss Green’s by no means girlish hand with youthful fervor, at the same time hitching his chair closer to hers. “Long years have passed since you and I exchanged vows of constancy, Tabitha, when our obdurate parents refused to sanction our union—but, bless my heart, Tabitha, I feel just as young as I uster did, and I see you look just as chirp and natteral as of yore!” ‘“‘Laws sakes, Obediab! you pore breath away!” Miss Green simpered, red to the roots of her hair, ‘I was just tell- ing a young lady friend allabout my early beau, not long ago, but, dear me, never expected to have you pop in on me, in this way.” “Well, P’ll tell you, Tabitha, I couldn’t stay away. Ye see, I’m joggin’ along in years, an’ hev laid up a snug sum from my ministerial labors, and have finally come to the conclusion et was time for me to look around for some staid party of the opposite sex, to help me down through the declining walk of life. By accident, learning of your whereabouts, my bosom heaved with youthful emotion once more, and says I—If Tabitha Green is alive and single, bless my soul, I’m going to set my cap for her once more.” ‘‘Laws, Obediah, you should remember we are getting old—” ‘““Hudge, Tabitha! Sixty years has passed lightly over both our heads, and we're liable to celebrate our fourth-score anniversary. Besides, I hear that some rascals are figuring after your property Wouldn’t it be quite roper for us old lovers to marry, and thus Se e the schemers?” ‘*Obediah, I—I—” ‘* Consent, my dearest Tabitha?” “My sweetest Obediah, you know I cannot say no!” Curtain! Aer. CHAPTER IX. ANGEL AND SAM. Arter Sierra Sam had sent his warning to the miners of Flumeville, he turned to Ser and gazed at her a moment, gam , for he knew she had been watching him, slyly, when his back was turned. ‘““Where is Miss Angel?” Sam asked, buying a fresh cigar. “Oh! only off duty for a few hours,” Trumps replied. ‘‘ Did you want to see her particu- larly?’ ‘“No, not at all, for that matter. I saw she was not here, and thought it a little odd.” ‘‘Maybe. She'll be back before a great while, however.” Sam left the post-office, wondering not a little what had become of the pretty post-mistress. For, although Trumps was pretty, she was not comparable to Angel; nor was the proprietress of the Find, although there was an irresistible | something about her appearance that attracted | the admiration of all who saw her. The day passed without any particular incident; the strikers collected in groups, here and there, in earnest and excited consultation, while the other party of miners guarded tho entrance to the mines, with unceasing vigi- lance, ready to repulse any attack. About nine o’clock in the evening Sierra Sam was standing in the doorway of French Fan’s Find, looking down the moonlit street, where he saw Sierra Sam No. 2 coming toward the saloon. . When he was but a few yards away, Miss Angel came along from «an opposite direction, take my | blushing | ber eyes downcast, and paying attention to ne one. To reach her shanty store she had to ents Sierra Sam No. 2, but seemed to think nothing wrong, although she barely glanced at him. The rival Sam’l, however, appeared to be of a festive nature, and desirous of making himself conspicuous, for he stepped before Miss Angel, thereby blockading her passage. ; a Hello! pretty !’ he exclaimed. ‘I’m blamed if you ain’t the purtiest gal I’ve seen in a good while, as sure as my name is Slocum. Give m« a kiss.” And he immediately seized hold of her. ‘Help! help!’ Angel screamed, her words ringing out thrillingly through the night. Quick as be comprehended the situation, Sierra Sam No. 1 sprung from the doorway of the Find, and rushed to the rescue. A crowd. of miners followed at his heels, ready to see the fun, if any there was tu be. By the time the rescuers reached the spot the hansome ruffian had released Angel, or, rather, she had struggled from his grasp, Sierra Sam surveyed the man sternly, and Miss Green’s choice returned the stare in grim defiance. ‘‘Miss Angel, did this individual attem fi , his kiss you against your will?’ Sam demand eyes flashing. ‘* He did, sir—but failed!” Angel replied in- | dignantly. | ** You may go, if P gre please,” Sam said, with abow, ‘Til attend to this fellow’s case my- self.” Angel hurried away, evidently glad to es cape, and Sam turned to his double. ‘** So, that’s the sort of a character you are, is it?’ he demanded, eying the other sternly. ‘‘- You insult unprotected ladies, do you, and yet claim to be Sierra Sam?” “Tf it suits you that way, yes,” No. 2 replied, apparently nothing daunted. ‘‘Pray, what business is it to you?” “The business of a detective and a gentleman to watch out for ruffians of our stamp,” was Sam’s cutting rejoinder. ‘ Your ill-breeding alone is sufficient evidence of who and what you are.” ‘‘T am the genuine Sierra Sam, all. the same, and you can’t, prove it otherwise!” was the sneering retort. | ‘That remains to be seen,” Sam _ replied. “For the present we have an entirely different matter on hand. You have insulted one of the most estimable young ladies in Big Vista, and you’ve either got to apologize or settle with ay So take your choice.” never was known to apologine yet—I doubt if I shall commence at this late stage. If you mean I must fight with you, I also decline, as Tam a gentleman, and never fight with any one. ‘You are a cowardly cur, evidently,” Sam retorted, in disgust. ‘‘ Were it not for soiling my hands on you, I’d mop the street, with you. ‘*T am glad you are so fearful,” the man re- plied, sneeringly, but edging away, and finally walking off. Sam turned away. followed by the crowd. “Tf that man isa fair specimen of the real Sierra Sam, I am ashamed that I am also a claimant of the title!” he declared to those around him, Two days passed without any marked in- cident. _The strikers lounged about the town with evidently no intention of coming to any terms, except their own; on the other side the miners of Deering’s movement guarded the en- trance to the mines with persistent determina- tion. Sierra Sam No, 1 kept around town, making such observations as he could, Sierra Sam No, 2 was little seen abroad, spending most of bis time at Miss Green’s or at unius Brutus Dunk’s shanty. Angel was little seen at the post-office, gen- erally not making her appearance till late in the evening—her place during the day being | filled by Trumps. | This retirement of the beautiful girl struck | Sam as peculiar, and caused him to wonder not | a little as to where she could absent herself during the daytime, and for what purpose. But, though he watched and wondered, he failed to arrive at the correct. solution. On the evening of the second day succeedin his encounter with Sam No. 2, he called in a the post-office, about an hour after the mail had ‘arrived. The room was deserted, except by Angel, who stood behind the counter reading a paper. ‘*Good-evening!” she said, with her habitual
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Sierra Sam’s Pard. winning smile. ‘No mail for you, Mr. Slo- um. “Tt isn’t my luck to receive much,” Sam re- sponded. “Guess T’ve no friends to write to me. **Ob! Iam sure you could win friendship any- where, Mr. Slocum.” “‘ Nor dre you liable to.” “Then ‘you won’t tell me?” ““Most assuredly not.” _“*T bave half a notion to leave this town be- hind me, on that account.” ““Why? You made your choice!” +4 did, but perhaps ths wrong one.” Fa ha! Well, you must trust to luck for “Trust be hanged! You, and you alone could I ever accept!” He spoke with great earnestness; kis eyes elo- quently echoed the sentiment his lips had spoken as they dwelt upon her sunny face. She colored rather strangely; an expression incomprvhensible, swept over her face, leaving it a shade whiter than before. “ Have a cigar?” she said, handing him a box, by way of turning the subject. ‘‘ You must ex- cuse me, Mr. Slocum, if I command you to say nothing of the kind again. You will-remember you are wronging one of these Sisters Sarony and they are bound by a vow of constancy. I know you will be kind enough to oblige all of us, in this matter.” “ Having expressed my sentiments, I will oblige you,” Sam responded. ‘“‘By the way, did a curious coin once come into your [toe sion? If you will lend it to me, a few days, I will return it to you.” The took the eagle she had received from Snodgrass, from the money-drawer, and gave it to him with a smile. “T was going to return it te you, when I was sure who played up Snodgrass,” she said. Sam gave her another eagle in exchange. “You are absent much, of late?’ he said, in- terrogatively. ‘‘ When will I see you again?” ‘*It will be better if you do not see me, at all, perhaps, more than as a nodding acquaintance,” she answered, quite soberly. “T think T comprehend,” Sam said, “‘ but I will answer that I don’t quite believe it.” He then lifted his hat, and took his departure. pe iY the oe he ry ee Stockton, w e y i ‘or bim. cage Tagenty bee, 0 her i gold!” the veteran remarked, with a x t chuckle, ‘! I tell ye, it’s hard ter select a better ‘un than Angel. But, that ain’t nuther heer, ner thar. .Deering’s down at the ‘ Find,’ and he wants to see ye, on important business.” “Do you know the nature of it?’ oe No. : They. soon reached the saloon, and entered. Deering anda few of the roughs who sided with him, were there, but the majority of the crowd was composed of strikers, Deering came forward, as Sam and Stockton onan t through so ye go rough yer courtship, eh?’ he sneered, tis face most evil and dunarboatin in its expression. ‘‘I gave you all.the chance I deemed necessary.” “You are very obliging,” Sam retorted, with sanegsin. ‘‘What may your highness want of me _ “Yes, I opine I kin accommodate you,” Deer- ing growled. ‘The boys an’ I have been talk- ing matters up, and we’ve come to the conelu- sion thet this hyar strike is money out of our pockets, and there ain’t no use o’ puttin’ up with it any longer. So we've jest sent down to Flume- ville fer another gang 0’ men, who aire on the way. Tharfore, as there is no further use fer Be an’ yer strikers, ye’ve got to clear out o’ ig Vista, and make room for the n ” We have, have we? How are see oe to accomplish our evacuation, may I ask?’ Sam returned. “You'll find out. I give ye jest till sunrise to-morrow to get your men out of Big Vista. If you don’t go, we'll force ye to at the point of the revolver and rifle.” “Then you'd better commence forcing at once!” Sam announced, ‘‘for I assure you, in behalf of the honest disposed miners of Big Vista, that we haven’t the least idea of quittin the camp, and are prepared to make it red-ho fur any one who tries to force us to leave!” “You'll find out where you'll get left, then!” Deering assured. ‘Rather you!” Sam retorted. ‘We are not in the least afraid of you, and to illustrate, Tl ive you just five minutes for you and your Candscai confederates to get out of this place. Take my word for it—if you don’t improve the opportunity, you will never get another, my noble cousin,” A tremendous hurrah followed from the a" and revolvers were drawn on every and, Deering saw nothing but grim earnestness manifested, and that a row just then would re- sult disastrously for his interests; so, motioning to his men, he withdrew, followed by them. By Sam’s orders Stockton at once assembled his men within the saloon. ‘*Tf they strike before morning, we are better off here than though we were scattered,” he ex- plained. ‘‘ Have you any objections to my making your lace a temporary fort?” he asked of French an. ‘None at all,” she replied, with one of her thrilling glances. “If f had, I fancy I could not withstand your plea!” Did she mean it? Or, was it only coquetry? CHAPTER X. ATTACK AND DEFEAT. Ir was well that the strikers of Big Vista had taken refuge in French Fan’s ‘‘ Find,” for other- wise there might have been a worse result of that night’s ray: It was about midnight before any demonstra- tion was made on the part of Deering and his gang; then old Stockton, who had been doing sentinel duty outside, hurriedly entered the saloon, barring the door after bim. ‘Get ready, boyees!” hecried, ‘‘Every man ter strike fer his rights now, regardless of feel- in’. ; Ther durned skunks aire creepin’ up on us!’ “‘To arms, then!” Sierra Sam caused to be passed along among the rough audience, “If you let yourselves be driven out of Big Vista, all right; I never will if I can help it!” an t’s the stuff,” the men cried, in a-‘ehorus, “arid we'll stand by ther old camp as long as she holds together!” Ordering all lights put out, Sam took his po- sition at a loop-hole just over the door, where he could see without being seen. Outside the late moon lit up the scene only in- distinctly, giving things rather a spectral as- ti PP roth his position Sam could see that the main body of miners were grouped together down the street, just out of sure rifle range. What were they waiting for? o~ It became quite evident to Sam, when he saw several men crawling toward the ‘ Find’ from ven: as many directions, each armed with a bundle of kindling-wood. It was their idea to fire the saloon, and force its occupants to come from cover, when the re- serve force would take advantage of the con- fusion to inaugurate a successful attack. “Pll check that little cana Sam decided, taking aim at the nearest bug. “Just you go tell Deering to sail in boldly, if he wants to fight.” Bang! The bullet from the Californian’s rifle grazed the cheek of the man, and clipped off a part of his ear, causing him to leap to his feet with a yell of pain and rage, and scamper back toa place of safety. : The others, who had been creeping up, at once followed suit. “Ready, now, at the loops!” Sam_ cried; “here they come, all ina body! Let ’em fire first, and then give ’em fits!” A rush of feet was heard coming down the street; then a small-sized pandemonium of yells and sereeches and oaths, followed by a volley of rifle-shots, many of which burst spitefully through the thin board siding into the saloon, but fortunately not harming any one. With a will did the strikers return the fire, cutting into the ranks of the enemy so badly that they halted, falteringly. ‘‘Out at ’em!” Sierra Sam shouted, leaping from his perch, and flinging wide open the door. ‘* Now’s our chance to show ’em they’ve tackled the wrong end of the hornet!” The strikers needed no urging, for they put explicit reliance in the Californian’s judgment, well-knowing that he would not lead them wrong. Out into the moonlit night they poured from the saloon, with fierce yells, and rushed toward eS OO eee ee a —— —————— ll the Boeniy, firing as they went—Sierra Sam at their head. Deering, seeing that his men would weaken before the determined strikers—to save his own skin, turned and ran, for life, It wasall his crowd wanted—they broke, in wild confusion, and also fled, precipitately, leaving Sierra Sam and his men masters of the situation, - “Hurrah! Let's take the mines, while we are about it!” old Stockton cried, excitedly. ‘No, no!” Sam protested. “ Let the mines alone. If Miss Green does not see fit to re- establish you, don’t touch a thing of hers, Just take your time now, and I'll guarantee all will come out well. If any of you get in actual need of funds, call on Sam’l, and you shall have ’em—only mind that you have nothing to do with the mines, further than to keep thein from being worked by the other men.” An enthusiastic cheer greeted this speech, for it struck the majority of the men as being right, and those who did not quite believe so, were willing to succumb to the ruling opinion. There had been five killed and a dozen wounded, by the strikers’ charge, and these were raised and cared for, the same as though they had been of the strikers’ own party. o further attack was made during the night, and when day dawned once more, quiet pre- vailed in camp, though Deering and men were discovered housed in the breaker, About noon they ran up a white flag ona pole, which went to say that no further demon- stration on their part wculd take place, for the edegar so Sam ordered a similar signal shown, but at the same time warning bis men to be on the look-out erg treachery, as it was not safe to put implicit trust in the enemy. During the remainder of the day Big Vista once more assumed something of its old appear- ance, the men of both sides epg Seer upon the street, with no particular hard feeling, ap- parently, toward each other. ) But that a bitterness was there could not be doubted, and Deering felt it the keenest of all, as he sat in the superintendent’s office, and bitterly cursed the ill-luck that had turned his own assault back on him. Dunk entered the office during the afternoon, hey as Deering was delivering himself of a vol- ey of oaths: “Hello! what’s the matter? Aire you down- hearted?” the -kinny man into * Cente !” the superintendent rses be on you, yes superin wled, savagely. Things aire in a purty os when I can’t run my own town, ain b) 7 vans pnttlam we Tents Brutus laughed rather: gly. “Tam sure no one is ‘to blame’ yourself,” he said. ‘You'd never make half a’ villain without me to help you along. By the way, have you heard the news?” ‘What?’ “Old Tabitha has got’a lover.” °° ‘* Bah! you mean thé‘old fossil of a preacher who calls imself Obediah Potts?’ ~ “‘Humph! the old galoot is a dry “Nevertheless, Tabitha and he claim to have been lovers once upon a time, and having met again, they’re going to hitch-up in double har- ness, and there'll be a new manager for the Big Vista mines.” Whereat Deering swore roundly. “Where did you get your information?” he growled, eying the skinny man, sourly, “From my confidential reporter, Claudie.” “Bah! I don’t take stock in it! They're both ready to put on a shroud, instead of wedding- robes.” “Don’t fool yourself. Theyre’ going to be married, and that, too, before many days. Now, Deering, ef you don’t look out, you’re goin’ ter lose yer trump in this game, just as simple as A,B,C.” | ; “No, Til be hanged if 1 will!” Deering grit- ted, ‘Why, curse me if I don’t murder every one of you, before I'll lose!” : “You may not have to do any such bloody work if you come to terms wifh me. [ tell you, Deering, you can’t do better than to come down, and I'll make you heir of Miss Tabitha Green, and owner of the mines.” “And if I don’t, what then?” Deering sneered. P CHAPTER XI. MURDER. DuNK smiled vaguely at the query. ‘* Why, then,” he said, ‘I shall see that you never inherit one farthing of Tab’s sur, Jus cash, I'll work against you with all my power,
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12 Sierra Sam’s Pard. and, no doubt, sufficient charges can be brought ** Waal, how d’ye do?” Snodgrass began, tak- up against you to make this part of the coun- try smocodiney unhealthy for you.” ‘Oh, you refer to the road, do you? Maybe you forget you are implicated as well as I?” “That cannot be proven. But there is no use of our being at swords’ points. You can just as well come to terms with me, and I’ll put you onto every point whereby you can score a success, You see what a gripe the other Sierra Sam has got over the best part of the miners, and you probably know that he is the style of a chap who is able to look out for Number One. {t behooves you, therefore, to see that he is de- throned.” “Well, curse it, what do you want, to “era matters up for me?’ ** Five thousand dollars down, and five more when you are established beyond dispute as sole heir of Tabitha Green. I am sure nothing can be fairer, as the inheritance is worth many and many times that amount.” ‘*But what disposal will you make of the Sierra Sam you handle, I beg to ask, should I come to terms as you express it?” ‘* Well, when I see the first V-thousand forth- coming I can readily enlighten you as to how, by the simple turning over of my hand, virtual- ly, I can put everything to rights.” D sat gazing at the floor, his face dark and. moody. Finally he arose, went to the safe, and bronany back a roll of greenbacks, which he placed in Dunk’s hands. “There!” he growled; ‘‘go ahead now, and seo that you make good your promises. If you don’t, I need not tell you what you will get.” Dunk smiled blandly, as he stored the wealth away in a capacious pocket, well satisfied at the bargain he had driven, Well, you need have no fear,” he said. “ I'll clearly explain, so you can understand. In the first place, although you may have suspicioned to the contrary, my Sierra Sam is the real Sierra Sam, and the other fellow is an impostor, but sharper than lightning, which I cannot sa of my man. At any rate, the other fellow is sure to win, if left on the market, and the re- mainder of the men will go over to his side, and we'll get drummed out of town. Emphatically, he must be removed.” De Wolf Deering nodded his assent. This de- cision harmonized well with his own views. “Yes, he m removed; but my man mfisi Be ptt fi his place—see? In this way, no difference will be suspected, and my man will at my orders orrenee everything so the capture of the strikers can be effected.” “‘Good plan! Bat will he do this?” “He will do anything I suggest. He is under me as much as though he were a child, and with him my word is law.” ** Well?” “Well, after the strikers are captured and iven the choice of allegiance or death, and t matter is settled, something else will be done, Iam informed that Tabitha Green is to have her will made soon, and as a matter of course she will have me draw it up, and I can easily fix it so that every cent will revert to you although the real legatee will undoubtedly his. nibs, the Reverend Obediah Potts. When by chance Tabitha drops away, all will come to you; my Sierra Sam will come up missing, and all will be as serene and lovely as a sunflower in June. Then you will have cause ’ to thank the great Junius Brutus for his efforts in g you a nabob from a pauper.” “Curse your impudence! I'll have you know that I am no peveey Deering fired back. “ I’m NOt so age 4 led.” ‘* Well, that is your own business, not mine. Now it remains for obey look tenderly after your beloved aunt’s th, and if after a proper course of medicines you fail to see any improve- ment, but, on the contrary, see that she is rap- a declining, you must not take the roma too badly at heart, but be prepared for her drop- ping off at any time.” “T shall profit by your advice,” Deering said, wiping an nary tear from his eyes. ‘ By 9 sf how are you going to dispose of Sierra ant “Leave that to my ingenuity. I can deco and capture him, reckon, without muc trouble. Sierra Sam satin French Fan’s saloon that night, busied in making notes in his memoran- dum-book, when that perennial bummer, Snod- grass, entered the place, and after looking over the occupants of the room for awhile, finally — his anatomy in a chair, across the table from the Californian. { — ing a huge chew of the weed. ‘‘ Tew bizzy tew receive a communication, Cap?’ Oh, no,” Sam replied, putting up his book, “Tf you have anything to unburden yourself of, friend Snodgrass, proceed to business.” ‘Waal, I allow et ain’t much. I war jest comin’ past the post-offis, an’ tho’t I’d ax fer mail fer ye, as I allowed ye war hyar. An’ so ther new gal wot tends ter ther offis gy me this;’ and the Snorter drew forth from his jacket pocket a crumpled-up letter. Sam received it, and perceived that it was directed to himself in a feminine hand. With some curiosity he tore off the envelope, and glanced over the inclosed missive. It ran as follows: **Srerra SAM:— “Dear Sin—Be constantly on your , but fear not! All will yet be well; that is, if my efforts are successful. Keep quiet, and be sure and remember that you are expected to remain faithful to your true ‘ pard,’ of your own choice, in preference to all former ‘ pards,’”’ That was all, There was no signature; the ve was neat and pretty. “Where did you get this, Snod ?” Sam demanded, eying the bullwhacker shrewdly. ‘ At the post-offis,” Snodgrass answered, with anwunblushing effort at earnestness. ‘“ At the offis, Sammy.” ‘* Sure? ; ee gave it to you?” ‘*Sartin sure, boss.” ** Well, what’s your charges for mail service?” “Waal, Sammy, et ain’t my natur’ to be mean about small matters—so ef ye could make et four bits, durned ef I won’t be yer uncle as long as ther scythe of old Time endures contact wi’ ther blades o’ eternal grass.” To rid himself of the bummer, Sam tossed him the d»sired amount and then took leave. Several days eee The situation in Big Vista remained about the same, neither the strikers nor the anti-strikers doing any work in the mines. The wedding of Miss Tabitha Green and Obe- diah Potts had been postponed a few days, but finally the day for the event arrived, The nuptials were to be celebrated in the green nyposion and only a selected few had een invited to be present; yet when the hour for the ceremony arrived, the house was filled, many being present who had received no invita- tion at all—among them Sierra Sam, the strikers’ champion and leader. About two o’clock in the afternoon, Junius Brutus Dunk entered the parlor, and thence was shown into Miss Green’s private sitting-room. He had a bundle of Jegal-looking papers in his hand, and the rough audience at once surmised that Miss Green was going to make some pro- yisious for ths ture, in the way of a will, be- fore she married, About three o’clock the bridal party entered the room, headed by the minister, and took their places. The minister then read the m service, and pronounced Obediah Potts and Tabitha Green man and wife, Scarcely had the benediction been pronounced, wheu there was a sharp, detonating pistol-shot heard; Mrs. Potts gave a quick gasp, and would have fallen had not the minister from Vermont quickly caught her in his arms, and supported her to a couch. The only medicine-man in Big Vista was Je- rome Stansill, and he was immediately sent for. He was a half-breed, but nevertheless had a fair education in doctoring. But, when he arrived at the bedside of Mrs. Potts, he at once pronounced her past the power of human aid. A short time later, she was raised and carried into another room. The excitement was intense, The pews of tho tragedy at once spread throughout the town, and soon a large crowd was collected without the shanty and within. Upon every lip was the question—who shot Tabitha Green? Nobody seemed to know among those who had been present to witness the ceremony. Sierra Sam had heard a crash in a pane of glass—saw Miss Green stagger as from receipt of a sbot—sprung forward to her side, just as Obediah Potts caught her in his Peay 2 as Obediah Potts said to him, in a low and not unfamiliar tone: “Sh! I know the man! Offer a reward, but do nothing rash until you are further advised.” Then, with the assistance of a miner, he car- ried the wounded woman from the room, as ret as the doctor had given her a quick exam- nation. Sierra Sam then turned to the crowd, which su clamorous throughout the room, ies and gentlemen,” he said, in his tones, ever clear and decisive, ‘‘I pray you to be quiet and to use discretion. A terrible crime has been committed bere, in our midst, and if you know who is guilty, you are far wiser than I. We came here to witness a ceremony of happi- ness—instead, it proves to be one of sorrow. But in this hour, gentlemen, it becomes us as men, to look up the man who did the terrible deed. I aes not to party or faction—I speak to you all!” he speech was received with manifest ap- proval on every hand. It was a noticeable fact that the large share of the men present were not strikers, but it was equally evident that the murder was something horrifying to them, and they were hard against the man who could wantonly commit such a crime at the very bridal altar. Inquiries were at once circulated on every hand, but no clew seemed forthcoming except what had received from Obediah Potts— and that he was careful enough to keep secret until he was in receipt of something positive on which to base his action. As soon as he could, Sierra Sam cleared the arlor of every person except himself, Stockton, nodgrass, and Obediah Potts, and, of course, excepting the darky servant, Claudie. Leaving Stockton and Snodgrass to see that no intruders gained entrance, Sam _ then entered the room where Miss Green, the doctor, and Obediah Potts were. Miss Green was not insensible—she lay, look- ing around her with a searching glance, as if apes some one. he doctor sat near at hand, looking really sober, for a man of his evident habits. Obediah Potts sat not far away, his head bowed in his hands, and he was weeping. Sierra Sam looked at him a second time before turning to the dying woman, for it struck him that, to say the least, there was something pe- culiar in bis manner of weeping. He then turned to Miss Green. She was white; there was an expression of in wg her face—their glances met, almost stantly. ‘You are not Sammy?” she said, more inter- rogatively than otherwise, “T am Samuel Slocum, aunt, but not the impostor you are fostering,” Sam replied. ‘‘ You have met with a bad misfortune, but we hope to bring your assassin to light without much difficulty. As your nephew, I feel it incumbent on me to do all for you that lies in my power, so if you have any word to leave—any ake, i all to make, intrust y var’, £90 be my most cornet ee come pean ch ‘ishes to the letter.” : She gazed at him, a new light seeming to dawn over her countenance, ‘*T feel—ay, I seem to know that you are the real Samuel Slocum,” she said, faintly, after a moment’s study of his ly countenance. “You are a far different man from the other claimant—I can see it clearly, now—I feel by instinct that you are the real son of my poor dead sister.” She put forth her hand, and Sierra Sam took it in his. ‘Dear aunt, I have only to tell you honestly, that you are right. But I do pray that you will not favor me. I have all of this world’s goods that I require to keep me through to the end of my Lae ping ‘*T came not to Big Vista, aunt, to become your heir; on the contrary, I came to solicit you not to connect me with any legacy you might make, as I do not make a practice of receiving what I do not earn. But on my arrival here, I found that the fellow who looks like me was trying to get in a deal to the fore, and I scheduled it as my duty to prevent him if possible. It is no matter of secret to you, how well I have suc- ceeded.” ‘*T need no further arsurance to convince me who you are,” Mrs. Potts said, earnestly. ‘I feel that Iam going, and what is to be done, must be done at once. Is Obediah here?” The Vermonter came forward, tears rolling down his fat cheeks from in under his goggles. ‘*T am here, Tabitha,” he said, taking her hand. ‘‘ What do you wish, dear?” ** Not much, Obediah. You know our mutual secret, and that Iam dying. I think that all is coming out well, after all. I-now realize that this is really my nephew, Samuel. He does not wish to become my heir. Will you, when you are through with my wealth, according to the terms of my will, leave all to whom Samuel may dictate?”
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‘“‘T will,” Obediah replied, reverently. “Samuel, have you any choice?” “T have, if the matter be referred to me,” Sam re aaa you know a young lady named ; “Quite well!” Miss Green replied, an expres- sion of pleasure lighting up her pallid face. “Then, if itis your desire that I shall name your heir, I will name the woman of my choice ~Angel!” Sam said. And Miss Green nodded her approval to Obe- diah. ee CHAPTER XT. OBEDIAH’S DEPARTURE. WITHIN an hour after Sierra Sam named his choice of heritage, Tabitha Green sunk peace- fully into that sleep from which there is no awakening. Before she dro ped away, she whispered a few words to Obediah, which he listened to with strictest attention, and as far as Sam was able to judge, her communication afforded the smooth-faced, reverend gentleman the greatest degree of satisfaction. ter his services were no longer needed, Sam went forth into the town, only to find that the excitement had not abated to any great extent, A large crowd was gathered about old Stock- ton, but they gave a cheer of approval as Sierra Sam came up. **She’s dead, aire she?” several miners inter- rogated, as the Californian came up. Yes, she is dead,” Sam replied, “and I sup- pose you’ve not found the murderer yet? What residents of the place have not been seen, to- day?’ i De Wolf Deering, for one—he went down to Flumeville last night!” Stockton answered. “ Angel ain’t nowhar ter be found, an’ t’other Sierra , nuther,” a Chinaman importer re- marked, who had once attempted to “mash” the fair postmistress, and signally failed. Gentlemen,” Sierra Sam said, ‘‘I have no doubt but what I can name the man who shot Tabitha Green. De Wolf Deering would not be away from Big Vista on such an occasion, with- out some very important cause. Come! let’s find out if he has been in Flumeville.” Headed by him and Stockton, the crowd tramped over to the post-office, and here Sam sat down at the telegraph instrument, and sent am to Flumeville, inquiring if De Wolf nat ad been seen there within twenty-four ours. After a five minutes’ wait, the answer flashed back that Deering had not been there. ‘*See, boys,” Sam said—“straws most gener- ally tell which way the wind blows. My ami- able cousin not been in the lower camp— where has he been? Couldn’t he have slipped down into the vicinity of my maiden aunt’s shanty, in disguise, accomplished his purpose, and slipped away again unobserved?” ‘Easy enuff, an’ he war none too good to do sech a thing, neither!” Snodgrass, the Snorter declared. ‘ Why ther durned galoot hes been a-tryin’ ter sic me onter Serious Sam’! heer, by offerin’ me fifty dollars, but this great snortin’ starm 0’ everlastin’ fury wouldn’t sic wuth a cent. The Snorter’s verdict was indorsed by the strikers, but the remaining tof the popula- tion would listen to no charge against their leader. Nevertheless, Sam had along talk with his men, and ordered placards posted up about the town, offering five-bundred dollars reward for the capture of De Wolf Deering, dead or alive. The cards were written ouf and posted in prominent places, there to be viewed by the crowd at large, but no attempt was made, on the of the Deering element, to disturb or mutilate the notices thus posted. Toward evening, Sierra Sam dropped into the ‘‘ Find,” and sought out French Fan, who was seated in a retired co rk ling teen, rner of the room engaged “ey have ust Naghiee of love stories,” she said laying down her “Phen, 1 may as well remark that under the circumstances, a dange sa ae encounter,” Sam said, rather Sarcastically, ‘I am afraid of folks who indulge in reg itiie love stories.” “Which is perfectly Proper. | I believe in men avol u nner 0} tem - marie cose, with a nonchalant nod. Pe 8 Gay, Miss Green is dead, and you are heir, I suppose?” Sierra Sam’s Pard. ‘Quite to the contrary. Ido not aspire to occupying dead women’s shoes. I came to ask you where a certain person is?” * Angel?” “ Yes !” **T donot know, I have been worrying much about her strange periods of absence. ‘* On whose account—hers, or your own?” Sam asked, scrutinizing her fair face with a search- ing stare that brought color to her cheeks. “ As a matter of course, on her account,” she replied quickly. ‘I have had fears—” ‘* That she was not remaining true to the vows of the Sisters Sarony?’ Sam interrogated. ‘* Well, yes, soto speak. But, that is foolish. Angel is as constant as either of us. I can not understand where she goes!” ‘‘Perhaps, while you and Trumps remain idle, she is working up a case against me!” Sam - hed. “Still waters run deep, and so orth. “It may be that you are our man, after all,” Fan answered, a strange, set expression rig upon her countenance. ‘‘If you are, you will be wise to take advantage of the respite we are giving you.” “Tam not inclined to take advantage of the circumstance,” he replied, turning away. Later that night, on his return to the Green residence, he was hailed by Junius Brutus Dunk, who stood in the doorway of his shanty. ‘‘Hello! Come over; I want to see you,” the skinny man cried, in a loud voice, ‘* But I don’t want to see you,” Sam returned, striding on. ‘* You’re mistaken in the man.” “Not a bit of it!” Dunk shouted after him. ““T know you apart. By the way, it’s all right; see you later.” hen Sam arrived at the Green residence he found the parlor occupied by Obediah Potts, and _ a stranger, who was very busy at writing. “T am glad you have come,” the Vermonter said, ‘‘ for I am making necessary arrangements for my departure from this place. Mr. Slocum, Mr. Dale, a —_— whom I have engaged to make my last will and testament.” The two men acknowledged the introduction —then Dale said: “Mr. Potts, I have made out your will, I thin according to your directions. If you will listen I will read it to you.” Obediah nodded assent, and the will was read, the devise making ‘‘the young woman of Big aa. known as Angel, sole heir to all-in-all “belonging to Obediah Potts, whether real or ** personal property, bonds, moneys, or claims y, heritage.’ ‘“‘Itis all right,” the Vermonter said, when he heard it read. ‘Please call in some dis- interested parties as witnesses, and then I shall be ready to leave.” ‘““What! you are not going away, Mr. Potts?” Sierra Sam asked, in surprise. “Ay, lam going to bid farewell to this part of the country—perhaps to all the world,” was the sad answer, ‘I have now nothing to keep me longer here, and prefer to if? where I can hide my a within myself. ill you see that poor Tabitha is properly buried?” “T will, sir. ButI hate to see you leave us, for citizens of your stamp are by no means a sae, Be the market here in Big Vista,” "Maybe not, sir; but I assure you that noth- ing can tempt me to remain here. By the way, sir, here is a letter you will oblige me by delivering to Angel, after I have taken my ae m received a sealed envelope, and soon after watched Obediah Potts mount a newly-pur- chased burro, just outside the shanty, and ride a: “A singular personage, whom, thus far, I have not m able to make out,” was Sam’s verdict, as Obediah disappeared from view. ‘* By the way, I’ll have an excuse for dropping in at the post-office now.” He did drop in, awhile later, just as Trumps was about to shut up shop. “*Good-evening, pard!” she accosted, in her jolly way. ‘Are you going to buy something? 0, for pity’s sake, because I’ve not taken in a dollar to-night, and the boss will think when she gets back, that I’ve been knocking down on the receipts.” “Yes. Ill buy a bunch of cigars, if you'll give mea nae, 22 for the pay for them,” Sam said, launghing—but in reality he meant what he said, because he wanted to get a men of | her chirography to compare with the note he had received through Snodgrass. “It’s a bargain!” Trumps assented, seizing a pencil and sheet of paper and rapidly writing out the receipt. ‘‘There you are: Received of ! 13 Sierra Sam, ten bits for five cigars. Signed— Trumps, for Angel.” Sam received the paper, with an amused smile. “That will answer, I ape he said, at the same time noting that the writing was in no way similar to that he mentall compared it with. ‘‘ Here's your pay. By the way, where wy ee _ postmistress, that she appecreth so seidom “Give it up,” Trumps replied. ‘‘ What mat- ters it to you, anyhow? ried men should be careful not to be too inquisitive about other ladies.” “P’r’aps!” Sam said dryly. Just then some one hurriedly passed the door ~! the post-office, at the same time flinging in a etter. Sam stooped and picked it up, somewhat anxious to know to whom it was antrensed. “Why, it is for me!” he said, tearing it open. There were but a few lines of the contents, which ran as follows: “Mr. SLocom:—I amintrouble. Will you lend me ahelping hand oe me tosolve a my: ? Come to the small-pox cabin. Yours ever, GBL.”” CHAPTER XTIL TRAPPED, Srxrra Sam’s pulse beat faster, as he read the note. ‘“* Bad news?” Trumps queried, observing the slight flush that came over Eis tees. ‘*Well, rather. Guess it can be fixed up all right,” he replied, bowing himself out of the place, and me ng up the street. With his mind busied with thoughts of the young postmistress and what could ly be the nature of her trouble, Sam had no suspicion of treachery. The letter was written in a style of chi phy, which could not well have been in- dited by a man, unless he was an adept at imitation. Arrived at the old cabin, Sam opened the door, pee ped within, expecting to see Angel in wait- ing for tin t he was mistaken. Hardly | he stepped his foot upon the rocky floor within, when he received a blow upon the fore- head which knocked him clear out of the cabin. He was partially stunned, but yet knew enough to realize that he was d into the shanty. and his limbs securely bound with strong leather straps. Hes was also aware that some water was dashed into his face, and was finally able to open his eyes with a full sense of consciousness that a man sat astride his body, and was looking steadily down into his face, with a pair of gleaming eyes, Dark br it was in the room, Sam was not long in distinguishing the thin, sharp features of Junius Brutus Dunk. ““Ah! so you have come to, have you, my friend Sam’l?” the skinny man chuckled, shoving the muz- zle of one of his revolvers in under the cool blade’s nose. ‘ Your girlgave you rather a warm reception, didn't she?” “Rather,” Sam responded. ‘“ I was off a ard, or you'd never have taken me, this easy. fat do you want, you rack-a-bones?” “Just what I’ve got—you,” Dunk declared, with a satisfied sir. “I invi you over to have a chat, awhile ago, but you were too shy; so I had to bait ou.’ “Well?” “IT am glad you think it is well. It may prove otherwise, things are so decidedly uncertain. the way, don’t you think it’s about time you let up for awhile, and confine yourself to quiet? You've been really too active, since you came to Big Vista, and it seems to me as though you ought to slack up, and give some other people a show for their money. sd P jn concluded to put a damper in me, to shut off my action, eh?’ Sam queried. 3 me ers ly! you have too much action to accord with the way — should go—so it becomes necessary to temporarily remove you from . the scene of your schemes, to more sedate and substan- tial qu rs, where you will remain indurance until I see fit to turn you Lat “*T presume, by that, you are in the employ of my amiable cousin #? * Not impossible nor improbable. At all events, | have reason to want you out of the way, until i make what enel I can—then, I have no further use for you. You will, like a gentleman, permit me to blindfold you, and bind up your yocabulary-trap, in order that you may not utter any dulcet notes, i i transport you hence, to your future abiding ace.’ 7 Sam did not reply. He was not the man to parley unless he say a fair chance for making something out of it, and seeing that it was useless to ‘chin’ with a man of Dunk’s caliber, he maintained a grim silence, and allowed the human cadaver to bind his mouth over with a strip of blanket, and blindfold his eyes with a similar ahs Dunk then left the shanty and was absent several minutes, when he returned, accompanied by another man, Sam was then raised, and carried from the cabin, and bound upon the back of a mule. A short conversation ensued between Dunk and his companion, after which the latter mounted a second mule and rode off down the trail, leading the first by a strap Thus from Pig Vista’s hopeful young metropelis,
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14 was borne away the only man who was universally ‘ acta ea. though choy ado 80> fotgated even 0 were an one-alded to acknowledge the Tact. ———- The following morning was an eventful one, in Prien en old Stockton arose bright and early, he made a discovery, that; to him was alarming. The Deering gang was once more ig the mouth of the mines—not alone among themselves as formerly, but reinforced by at least a hundred “ae eauickl 7 And an, quiet possible, Stockto As q ly as quie as 8, n had his own su cane party aroused, and gathered within French Fan's saloon. Here a consultation. was held, which Stockton had to lead, as Sierra Sam was not present, and could not be readily found. “Ther durned galoots hev got us now, onless we kin do some big schemin’ ter sarcumvent 'em,”’ the veteran di .. ‘I tell ye I wish Sam'l war here. Anybody seen him?” oO one responded. “Probably he’s oe pa out, an’ smuggled in the Flumes, ter work ag’ *? one miner os *““No sech a thing!” kton . deni stoutly, one "ia Sam is as square as ther day is long, I you!’ “You bet on that!" a voice cried out, and Sierra Sam No. 2step into the room, smilingly. A cheer went up from the crowd. They did not recognize the difference between him and the original. ** Stockton, I am glad to hear that you entertain so good an opinion of me,"’ he d, grasping the veteran's hand. “By the way,I have been on a little spying expedition in the ‘enemy’s camp, in d ise, and while I do not anticipate | imme- diate hostile proceeding on their part, it be well enough to our forces under this present shelter. I have no doubt the other gang will goto work ina day or so with Deering at the fore. If any one gains ion of Tabitha Green's mines, then it will be only by asuperior force of numbers. I'll speak with mine host Fanny, and see if her larder will support us as regards pro- vender.” Stockton watched him narrowly as he walked over to where wd was sitting alone, apparently ab- swell, Ap oe ad place a fort “Wei see you’ve made m a fort again,” she said, sep hes witha smite. ** Yes, for a e@. They rung in asly deal upon us, these anti-strikers, by importing some Flume- villians. It strikes me, Fanny, that it is going to be a tough struggle before we get through—this to you only.” y. * Do you think so?"’ She looked at him curiously as she spoke. If cognizant of the fact he made no notice of it, but continued: “Yes! Idohonestly thinkso. I had a great deal of courage and confidence at the time of the other attack, for then we were more on terms of equality. But now it is different, They have over three men to our one, I suspect, for they are ——— still another reinforcement from Flumeville. To let this out to the men would be disastrous just now, and so I must cheer them on and give them every encouragement to strengthen their bravery. trust you will assist me?” * Do you need to ask, Mr. Slocum?’ was the thrill- ing answer. “I think you know full well that I would do all in my power for you.” **You inspire me, Fanny,” the false Sierra Sam said, earnestly. ‘‘1 think 1 do comprehend your nature thoroughly, and can read your heart as thovgh it were my own. I know you are passionate and intense in your loves and hates. Fanny, [ know more-—I know that you love me with all the power of your soul and ” She averted her coloring face with a gasp that be- trayed her secret. **T know all!’ the schemer went on, speaking in a low ionful Be ‘aan no secret between us, for your affection oubly returned, regar«- less of previous circumstances. To know that you are mine thrills me to the very core, and aids me to add more courage to danger L must con- front. Only tell me, Fanny, that though the whole soar Proeengs tite tah ott and es me at every turn, others and even death may come to claim me, you will remain true ee ea Dot repk dk her flushed, e no y, and kept her flu joyous face still averted, but put forth her hand in his, as her answer. “May our reward be happiness!” he said, in a low, fervent tone. ‘Excuse me now, please. I must look to the wants of the men, and keep them in F pes heart. Have youa jug of Sage you can sell me? I wish to give them all a ration to put them on nerve.” “I will see,” she said arising. ‘Come with me, mine !’ and her loving glance caused even the heart of the impostor to thrill within him. She led the way behind the bar and thence into a sma)l room © off from that end of the building. Here were decanters, jugs and quarter-barrels of various kinds of liquors. Sam—as we shall yet call him—selected a Sierra fi ually of Bourbon, and tasted of it to sample ‘That will do," he said. ‘Now; if you will be kind enough to bring me @ quart of water, and an empty flask, I will weaken this, as I do not care to stimulate the men, beyond a certain _ Fan went back into the bar-room, the flask and water. Sierra Sam’s.Pard. — While she was gone, the villain emptied a pint of the liquor th h a knot-hole in the floor, and ly emptied the contents of a pint-bottle into the demijohn. ‘That will settle ‘heir hash,” he muttered, “ All's fair in love or war.” Fan came in a moment later. “T guess Pll give it to them just as it is, but in small doses,” he said, smiling. ‘“ You know the more hornet-stings to the inch of bug-juice, the bet- ter it suits the average western man,”’ They then went back into the saloon, which con- tained all the strikers. Commencing with old Stockton, the bogus Sierra Sam proceeded to give every man a liberal drink of the powerfully drugged liquor, and ended by pre- tending to take a — drink himself, but the lightning way in which he succeeded in slipping it down within his shirt-bosom, showed that he was at least an expert in the ‘‘ ways that are dark.” ** Now, boys,” he said, “* business is before us, and I want to distinctly impress upon your memories that business is business. We have a big odds to contend with and if we hope to win, we must be strong, agile and sharp. I will now leave Stockton to get you in fighting trim, while I slip out, and make a few more observations.”’ The majority of the men grunted forth an assent, but the veteran Stockton, did not appear to feel so deeply impressed with o-Californian’s speech. Pe Boys,” he said, after Sierra Sam had left the saloon, * I fear thar’s a screw loose here, some- where’s, Somehow, I feel all mixed up, and I guess I'll go and sit down awhile and consider.”’ And he did sit down, but it was not five minutes ere his eyes were closed, and he was in oblivion, so far as his surroundings were concerned. One by one his followers Lek re into chairs, or upon the floor, as the case might be, from the effects of the drug that had been put in the liquor. With a pallid face and staring, frightened gaze French Fan leaned against her bar, and watcher the startling effect of the liquor, the truth of. the = Sierra Sam’s falsity, gradualiy dawning upon her, “*My God—I have been the tool of a demon in na- ture’s disguise, who has taken advantage of my weakness and gained a point in power, That man was not the Sierra Sam; where is he?” She might have asked the mountain winds that swept down over Big Vista city, but their reply would have given her no satisfaction. She sat staring at the wreck about her, wonder- sessed of ing what next would follow, and yet not e drugged power to raise a hand toward arousing men from their stupor. Once she saw the door of the saloon open, and An- 1 step within—saw her take a quick, comprehend- ing glance about—saw her dart out again, and close the door. Then all was quiet again—deathly quiet, it seemed —until the door was burst violently open, and De Wolf Deering, with two-score or more of armed men at his back, burst into the reom, “Hurrah, boys! Victory is mine at last,” he yelled, leaping forward toward French Fan. CHAPTER XIV. THE CHOICE OF LOTS. THERE was no one to y Deering's cry of vic- tory, except French Fan alone, but she not only knew that her voice would be useless on this occa- sion, but the less she said the better for her. “Come along,’ Deering roared to his men. “We've got everything our own way now, and we must improve the advantage, Bind every man, hand and foot!” The job was quickly completed, without awaken- ing the aoa sleepers, and they were shouldered and carried off to the vicinity of the mouth of the shafts, where a camp had been established for the Flumeville miners. : ——- Fan watched the proceeding with a color- ess face, Deering approached her with a triumphant leer upon his sensual face. ‘Well, what d’ye think o’ matters?” he demand- ed, with a malicious smile. “Rather tripped up your calculations, didn’t it?” ‘Not in the least. The plan has worked admira- bly, as I predicted it would when I consented to furnish the whisky,” Fanny replied, with apparent eee vont” Deert gasped ‘ ou ” a * Yes, I! Didn't ow that I was a party to the scheme, did you?” “The devil, no/” “Thought not. If it hadn’t been for me and Trumps and Angel, your little calculation wouldn't have worked at all.” “Oh! Isee. You are trying to creep around onto the side offering the most protection,’’ Deering sneered, ‘“‘ Well, ye’d better. Soon’s I get matters straightened around ship-shape, one of you three girls have got to marry me.” ** Choose me, and I'll scratch your ugly eyes out, first chance I get!"’ Fanny assured, with a ‘ **T think that I will have the bogus Sierra Sam and leave you out in the cold.” ‘In which case the fair Angel will do me just as well, and she is much more attractive than you, Deering retorted, as he turned and left the saloon. When he and the last of his gang were gone, and she was alone, a strange expression came over the face of the girl, as she staring into a mirror behind the bar, Pi “Even he twits me of my sister's superior beauty, she murmu “knowing that it is an unwelcome fact to me. 1 is more beautiful than [, and worst of all, Sierra Sam knows it. While I will give up all on earth I hold dear for his jal passes rag to bestow his affection upon her. Oh! why is this so?” She bowed her head in her hands, and wept with intensé fee , The door opened and Trumps came into the sa- loon, eee ap be rather surprised to see the other giving awa £. French Fan looked up, half-fiercely, as if the in- trusion were unwelcome. “What do you want?’ she demanded, sharply, drying her tears. ‘I want you to brace up and be yourself,’ Trumps replied, speaking with more sternness than was usual with her. ** What is the matter?” “Nothing!” Fan flashed back, recovering her composure with an effort. ‘‘ What do you want?” Trumps smiled; ‘“*T fancy I comprehend what is the matter with you,” she said, knowingly, not answering the ques- tion. “You are weaker than I ever supposed. But this won’t do. You know what yet remains to be done, and it must be done at once. The time has arrived when we must smother ev hope and de- sire, and strike the blow we came here to strike. Get ready and come to the cabin.” An hour later the three Sisters Sarony sat at the table in small-pox cabin—not in their disguise in ny but as was their usual appearance in Big ta. Upon each face there was an expression of reso- lution, an expression of anxiety, an expression of pain. inly concealed. us ere is the real Sierra Sam?” Angel asked, ge the meeting. ‘He is not in Big Vista.” “ © not know,” Fan replied. ‘I wopposed it was he who came into the saloon and got the liquor to treat the: strikers, but awakened to the cheat, when I saw the effect of the drug.” “Your customary shrewdness must have been love-blinded,” Angel said, with a rather cynical laugh. “I fancy, had it been me, I should have de- tected the cheat by instinct.” ** You have unusual confidence in yourself,” Fan- ny retorted. ‘‘ Have you anything to offer, Trumps?”’ “Yes, It is my opinion Sierra Sam has been de- coyed and captured,’’ Trumps replied. ‘ Last night just before I closed up he came into the store and asked for Angel. While there some one flung him in a letter, which he opened and read, and then left ina hurry. Before he left he dropped this letter for Angel into the -box,’’ and as she finished speaking Trumps flung a letter across the table to where Angel was seated. * A love-letter, I presume," French Fan remarked, sarcastically. **On the contrary, it is not from Sierra Sam at all,” Angel said, after opening it. ‘* Listen: *** ANGEL, oF Bra VisTa: “*PisteEMED LApy—When this missive reaches you all that is earthly of Obedian Potts will have been consigned to the tomb, and all property left behind by me will be yess, according to the provisions of my last will and testament, left in the hands of one lawyer Dale, and you can enter into the immediate sossession of your inheritance, with the last and best well-wishes of BEDIAH Porrs.’” French Fan and Trumps uttered exclamations of surprise. “That means that you are heir to the Big Vista abitha mines,” Trumps said, ‘for I understand left everything to the old Vermonter.” “That remains to be seen,’ Fan remarked. * You remember that the rascal Dunk drew her will, and he is the right-hand man of De Wolf Deering. It would be easy for him to have some flaw in the will, so that Obediah would have no claim through Ta- mye ware tak ” Angel asserted. “Dunk is ou are . “Dun an arrant knave, and will play the game he can see the most money in, you can rest assured. We must look him up, and get possession of the will.” **T believe the terms of our mutual apply only to the accomplishing of one object,’ Fan suggested, rather Spe “and person should not be conside: y us as a sisterhood.’ Angel flushed. “Perhaps you are right,” she returned, calmly. “‘T perceive that you are so far forgetting your oath as to allow jealousy a corner in your . There- fore, I will try not to burden you with any of my roubles."’ ni Stop! this 2 amaMitee kei. au- thoritatively. “ us east while our mission is unaccomplished. I think we are all well satisfied which is our man Dow, are we not?" Both Angel and Fan assented. Indeed, after the bogus Sierra Sam's treachery, there could be but little doubt in the matter. “MeNorrin, as he claimed to be before coming here,” Trumps went on, ‘‘is in reality Frank Fuller, the murderer cf our poor dead sister, Adele. This same Frank Fuller is also the man who betrayed the men of Big Vista into the hands of the enemy!" Angel and Fan nodded their assent. “Such being the case, it behooves us, before look- ing UP = Sierra Sam, to secure vag hn I eve it was a part of our agreemen we should all join equally in the search, and when we found the man, we were to dr w lots to determine who should strike the blow of vengeance?” * Exactly," French Fan replied. “It but remains now to see who is elected to that honor. Let Angel prepare the lots—whoever draws the shortest out of three, shall do the last act in the programme.” Angel's face paled, but she did not hesitate. She am Nye well the terms of the vow that bound them ogether,
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ee a — lle — A — She arose, three matches, and going to the further side of me room broke them of in un- even lengths. She then returned to the table, and held the exposed ends toward her sister. ‘‘ There they are,” she said, gravely; ‘‘ Consider what the result of drawing the shortest must be, and make your choice." Trumps drew first, choosing the match nearest to her. It proved to be the one that had been broken off near to the center. “You next,” Angel said, looking at French Fan. The latter reached forth her fair white hand, with its glittering array of diamond-set rings, and drew one of the sticks. Angel then opened her hand, exposing the length of the other. Fan had drawn the shortest of the three pieces, and was elected to strike the blow that was to avenge a dead sister’s wrongs. “The meeting is adjourned,” Angel said. “The yows that have heretofore bound us together, are hereby dissolved!" CHAPTER XV. A FRIEND, UNEXPECTED, Srerra SAM was taken to a cave in the mountains, not three miles from Big Vista. Here his conductor unbound him from the horse, assisted him to dismount, removed the gag from his mouth, and the cloth from before his eyes. / The cave was so dark that at first Sam could hardly ere ry the features of his captor, but Sone he did, he gave vent to an exclamation of sur- prise. ** Balbro, as I live!’’ he cried. ** Ay, Balbro!”’ his captor replied, ‘* though I am rather ashamed to acknowledge the fact. Sierra Sam, I give. you my. word of honor, I knew not this was you, when Deering sent me here with you, He told me you were the bogus, instead of the real Sierra Sam, and that he was working solely for your ine 3 ’ “Indeed,” Sam_ replied, rather sarcastically. “Why did you come here to Big Vista, Balbro, so [ poe warned you men of Flumeville not to come “Simply because I came to help you, Sam, and bring the other party to_ confusion. With such an aim in view I accepted the charge from the rascal, Deering, of bringing you here.” Sam looked af the man steadily and accusingly, but on account of the gloom, could discern no par- ticular expression upon his face. “See here, Balbro,” he said, in.a sternly sober tone, ‘you remember I did you a service, once.” “Have I ever forgotten if? I came into Flume- ville one day, a wreck of a drunken loafer, rough and wretched. You met me and made me better exacting a promise from me to brace up, and put. ting money in my ,hand, when I had none in my pocket. I did brace up, in some cts, and got work through you. agency, and though Iam coun a pretty rough character, as such run, I have it to say, proudly, that I would not harm a,hair of your head for all the wealth Big Vista boasts.” “T believe you, Balbro, so let that subject drop. What do you propose to do next?” ‘“What do you suppose?'’ Balbro asked. “A friend in need, is a friend indeed; but a friend by act, is a friend intact.”’ ; And rig how, a knife, the bummer cut the Cali- fornian’s bonds, ‘Now, then,” he said, ‘back for Big Vista we go. As I told you before, I never forget a kindness, and I pro to further prove it. All the men I had brought from Flumeville are your friends, as well as mine, regardless of wages or other influence. At the present time, very likely, your men, through the agency of Junius Brutus Dunk, are in Deering’s power, but it shall not long be so.’ “Let's start for Big Vista as soon ‘as possible, Pay said - Correct! We will start at once, but I must make a detour, in order to reach a hidden So, if you choose, you can go on ahead to the vicinity of the town, and await my arrival, there, when we will form plans for the discomfiture of the other party.” Having little doubt but what Balbro was true, Sierra Sam agreed to his proposition, and they soon after left the cave, Balbro going toward Flumeville, and Sam shaping his route toward the town once m ore. “When I get there now,” he muttered, “ matters will have to be narrowed down.” CHAPTER XVI. CONCLUSION. Srerra Sam went back to the bp of of Big Vista, to the place that Balbro had appointed. It was not far from the small-pox cabin, and knowing that he had plenty of time, Sam made his way to the cabin to see if some disguises he had left there had been disturbed. To his surp when he entered the place he found Sn he Snorter there, seated comfort- heels elevated upon the table and in ly with orient enjoyment of a cigar. “Oh! is that you, Sammy?” he saluted. in and take a seat. I got alittle ahead short cut, and thought I'd take a little rest.” “Got ahead of me?” Sam asked, advancing and taking a seat opposite the Snorter. “Ah! I fancy I get onto the rac et!’ “It is not my fault if you don’t, Sam'l,” the seem- ing bullwhacker replied, “for lam Balbro, and like- wise the Snod you once met in Flumeville, and afterward inf: ngedans “By all that’s wonde: Iam surprised at this revelation,’’ Sam declared, seating bimself nearer * Come of you by a t vie pt ? : | . a te ee eee | to the man that he might get a better view of “him | know me, murderer? [am Bijou Sarony, the one of in the dim light of the lantern. **T see now that ot eyes and the eyes of Balbro are the same. When we left the oe yao once upon a time, and agreed that I should renounce my right to the title of Snod , 1 had no idea I had ever met you except as Snodgrass, which character you will acknowledge I personated with a fair degree of success."’ “> Hey if not quite as good as myself, the origi- nal,"’ Balbro replied. *‘ By the way, while you have been improving a roundabout way bo reach this lace, I have been making some observations, and I ave come to the conclusion that we can profit best for awhile by remaining concealed in this place.” And they did remain concealed in the “ lean-to” kitchen—remained there until the three Sisters Sarony bad visited the place and decided, by draw- ing lots, who should be the one of the Black Trio to deal the fatal blow to Frank Fuller, the murderer cf Adele Sarony! When the strange trio were gone, Sam and Balbro set out for French Fan’s saloon and found it de- serted, except of the fair proprietress, who seemed surprised at sight of Sam. “Why, Mr. Slocum, how glad I am to see you back! Have you been in trouble?” “Well, no; not particularly,” Sam replied. ** How does the situation stand this morning?’ ; * Bad!” Fan replied. ‘Deering and his gang have possession of the town, through having cap- tured the strikers." She then went on to explain what is already known to the reader, econeerning the drugged liquor, which the bogus Sierra Sam had administered to the unsuspecting strikers, “We'll soon settle the matter now,"’ Balbro an- nounced. ‘Come, Slocum, and we'll deal Deering a deal he does not anticipate.” They left the saloon and crossed the plateau toward the mouth of the mines, where the. Flume- villians’ camp had been pitched, and in. whose charge the captured strikers had been placed. The Flumevillians were all astir, and so were Deering’s men. ; It was evident that the arrival of Sierra Sam and Balbro, otherwise Snodgrass, had been noted, and caused not a little excitement. “Tf I see that it is practicable, I will give the sug- gestion, and we will surrender,’’ Balbro. explained. “My men will play their parts all righ., and as soon as advisable, Will turn the tables.”’ When they arrived at the scene of the camp, Deering made his appearance from ‘the ore-breaker, and strode over to where Sam and Balbro had halted. “See here, what the devil are you two loafers hanging around here for?” he demanded, with an oath. “This town is mine, now, and I'll give you just about five minutes to clear out of. it, and never show up here again!" “Ts it possible?” Sam retorted. get so much authority?” *Here!"’ Deering replied, waving his hand tri- umphantly toward his men and the Flumeville re- cruits. “By force of numbers, as you perceive. Your strikers are my prisoners, and are to be tried and sentenced at my convenience. If you do not want to share their fate; gt up and git!’ “Tam sorry tosay that I don'tscare worth a cent,” Sam_ retorted, with imperturbable coolness. ‘' De Wolf Deering, Iam an officer of the law, and demand your surrender, in the name of the law, for the mur- der of Tabitha Green, who yet lies unburied in her residence.” As he spoke. Sam stepped forward to grasp his villainous cousin, but was not permitted to attain his object. A dozen of Deering’s men leaped in front of him and, though he drew a knife and fought them back fiercely, they soon succeeded in overpowering him, and also secured Snod posts in the wisiniiy. ar hd “Where do you grass. Both were firmly bound to *O-ho! your authority don’t extend very Deering sneered, striding up to Sam and smitin him across the cheek. “ all the furies, you’ find pra been taking sides against the wrong man in this matter, and to-night at sunset, you sh receive Rage nie the same as the others, and you need not rack your brains to guess what your sen- tence will be. I am the one who holds the trump, and you shall * pass!’ Ks Maybe not,” Sam replied, retaining his com- ure. But when sunset came there was no movement toward a trial, and Sam was removed from the post and locked up, helpless, in an empty shanty. Darkness soon stole over the now grim mountain town, and Sam lay stilland watchful in his tempo- rary prison, rather expecting that if would not be long ere Snodgrass and his men would comer to his rescue. The evening was well advanced, when the door was cautiously opened and some one entered the room. At first Sam could not make out who it was, but as soon as the light of a bull’s-eye lantern was turned on, he perceived that it was nates Fan. There was an expression of stern resolve upon her | face, as she advanced, and Sam saw, to his astonish- | | ’ | ment, that her right hand clutched a shining | ees Lac the three Sisters Sarony, elected to avenge our sister's death, by killing you!" - She raised her weapon aloft, and bent. forward toward him. ‘Stop!’ Sam cried, sharply. “I am not Mc- N eat am Sam Slocum, the original. me not!” “You lie! You cannot cheat me now, as you did when ‘you d the miners, for my eyes are pot to be deceived. As you murdered my sister, so — you die, and may God have mercy on your sou Ww Her hand flew upward, and the blade flashed through air. Sam quickly rolled over, and the weapon was partly buried in the rough floor of the shanty. French Fan uttered a vexed cry, and attempted to jerk forth the weapon, but before she co do so, she was seized from bebind, and dragged bodily from the shanty, “*Fool!’”’ Trumps cried in her ear, “ that is not your man. There he stands now!” one pointed over to the open doorway of Dunk's anty. From where they stood, they could see the out- — of the pseudo Sierra Sam looming up in the oorway. “Are you sure?” Fan demanded, trembling all over. “ Positive!’’ Trumps asserted. “You came near murdering the real Sierra Sam. Fan darted away, with a strange gasp. About midnight, the door of Sierra Sam's prison was once more opened, and Snodgrass entered. “All right!" he said, cut Sam's y * Deering’s men are all , and all that re- mains is to secure him and his man Dunk.” They left the place, and went at once to Deering's shanty, backed by a crowd of Sam's released men and the Flumevi a Deering was not up, having turned in for the night; but a few raps brought him to the door, in = his shirt and pants. “Hello! what means this racket?" he roared, savagely. : = cpeenns reas you neve pip bP ges pi of your rope!’’ Sam cried, spring’ orw dextrously handcuffing the rutin ris time I make gure of you, my amiable Deering!” What remains n to be told of this story, can be given in a few words. Following Deering’s arrest, Dunk was also seized, and Tabitha Green's will was found upon his person, so altered and erased that it was hardly readable, and gave everthing to peering. Fearing that his life was peril, however, the cadaverous scoundrel made a confession, in which he admitted that Obediah Potts was the legates, and also that De Wolf Deering, himself, and the bogus Sierra Sam had me a for the murder of poor Tabitha, and that Deering had committed the crime; also that Deering was at the head of the gang of road-agents. who frequently, robbed the stages, many of whom were men under Deering's employ in the mines, e confession raised a decided. furore of excite. ment, and for a while mob law threatened to pre- vail; but through Sam's influence no harm waa offered the prisoners, as he promised a trial should be given them in the morning. A search, however, was made for McNorrin, and about daybreak he was found, dead, near the small- pox cabin. Upon his breast was pinned a paper containing, to Sam, sufficient explanation of how he had bis ate. This paper read: “Vengeance is mine. Busou Sanony." Going back to the Find, Sam found it closed up, and upon the door there was a paper pinned, which “Srerra Sam:—You will find a letter for you in the post-office.” Hoping to see Angel, Sam accordingly took his way to the post-office, as soon as it was open, in the —— and found Angel preparing for the day's mess. _ “A letter for you,” she said, nodding, and band. ing him a delicate missive. He opened it, and read: “Dear Mr. Srocum:—The mission of the three Sisters Sarony is fulfilled, and in deference to our Angel, whom you chose, we have left me Vista, for- ever, that she may be your for life. diary her, and believe that our b) will ever be wi you both. Bryou anp Gusstr Sarony.” Sam banded the letter to Angel, or Stella, and she read it with flushing cheeks and tearful eyes, “They have left you alone and given you to me,” he said; “ will you also give yourself to me?” With her blushing face hidden upon his breast, she gave him her answer, and it was ** With all my heart!” Poor Tabitha was given a burial, that morning, there being a large turnout. The t of Dee was then had, and he was convicted of murder in the first degree, and together with his pals, a few days. later, poecind over to the care of a deputy-marshal to be taken care of. Dunk escaped, through his confession, and hur- riedly left Big Vista forever. Later, lea’ and Sn
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BEADLE’S | HALF-DIME | LIBRARY. 1 Deadwood Dick, Tae Prince of THE Roap | By Edward L. Wheeler. 2 Vellowstone Jack. 3 Kansas King. By Buffal Bill 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters. By Captai Mayne Reid and Captain i‘rederick Whittaker. 5 x agabond Joe, THE YounG WANDERING JEW. y OH Coomes. Double Number, pete 6 Bil Biadon by E. 8. Ellis. 7 The Flying 8 Seth Jones. By EdwardS Ellis. 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen, 10 Nat Todd, By E. 5. Ellis. 11 The Two Detec rs Ma? A.W. Aiken. 12 Gulliver's fae ae Tian Swift. i3 The Dumb Spy. By ot Coomes. 14 Aladdin; or, THe Wonverrut Lamp. 15 Whe Sea-Cat. By Captain Fred. Whittaker. 16 Robinson Crusoe, (27 [lustrations.) 17 Ralph Boy, = Boy BoccANRER or, THE Fuaerrrve YAcuHT. Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 18 Sindbad the Sat or. His Seven Voyage 19 The Phantom Spy. By Buffalo Bill. 20 The Double Daggers. By E. L. Wheeler. 21 Whe Frontier Angel. By Edward 8. Ellis, 22 Whe Sea Serpent. Juan Lewis. 23 Nick o? the Night. By T. C, Harbaugh 24 Diamond Dirk. By Colonel P. Ingraham. 25 The Boy Captain. By Roger Starbuck. 26 Cloven Hooft, THe BurraLo Borper Vourures. By Edward L. Wheeler. n Trapper. 27 Antelope Abe, THE Boy Guipg. Oll Coomes | 28 by orm Ben, THE Prince or THE PrsTou; p Dick ox Disevrse. E. L. Wheeler. 34 ‘The Dumb Page. By Capt. F. Whittaker. 0 Roaring Ralph et p heotedl THE RECK- Less RanceR. By Harry George.’ 31 Keen-Knife, Pace bs THE mirs By Oll Coomes, 32 Bob Woolf, Taz Borprr Rorrian; or, THE Gm Deap-Snor. By Edward L. Wheeler. ' 33 The Ocean Bloodhound. 8. W Pierce. 34 oresom sola or, Nick Wuuirr.es' Boy Spy t. J. F Adams. iid Ivau. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Boy Clown. By Frank S. Finn. The Hidden Lodge. By T. C. Harbaugh. Ned bt pee THE 5 * Scout. By si Jack. Death-Face, THE Detective. By Wheeler. Roving Ben. By J. J. Marehalle Lasso Jack. By Oll Coomes. The Phantom ! ates By E. L. Wheeler. Dick Darlin ng PRESS RIDER By Capt. Frede t Whittaker. attling Rube. By Harry St. George. Old Avalanche. By Edward L. Wheeler. Glass Eye, THE Great SHoT oF THE WEST. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams. Nightin; ale Nat. By T.C. aston Black John, THE Roap-AGent. By Badger. Omaha Oll. By Edward L. Wheeler. Burt Bunker, THe Trapper. C. EF. Lasalle. The Boy Rifles. By Archie C. Irons. The White ee By C. E. Lasalle, Jim mete ge Se wi aeeth Edward L. Wheeler. y Cc ee RRR Ned Hazel. . F. C. Adams. Deadly - Eye, a8 haan Scour; or, THE BRANDED BROTHERHOOD. 7; Bon Buffalo Bill. Nick Whifftes’ Pet. . J. F. C. Adams. Deadwood Dick’s Eag es. The Border <i By Oll Coomes. Old Hicko St. George. dian anny Bt J. PG. Adams. The White Buckhorn Bill. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Shadow Ship. By Col. P. Ingraham. The Red Brotherhood. W. J. Hamilton. Sena é Jack. By T. C. Harbaugh em cane ~ ag 8 Jos. E. Badger, Jr 66 Single Hand. “A . J. Hamiiton. 67 Patcathenser oe. 4. By But Warne 68 Border Robin Hoo uffalo Bill 69 Gold Rifle. Edward eeler. 70 Old Zip’s Cabin, By Capt. J. F. C, Adams 71 Delaware Dick. By Oll Coomes. 72 Mad Tom Western. By W. J. Hamilton, 73 Deadwood Dick on Deck. By Wheeler. 74 HMawk-eye Marry. By Oli Coomes. 5 The Boy Duelist. By Col. P. bam, 6 Abe Colt, Taz Crow-Kitter. By A W. Aiken. 7 Corduroy Charlie, THE Boy Bravo; or, DEADWOOD -~ Last Act. By E. L. Wheeler. 8 Blue meron Sol Ginger Rosebua nop. B Lightning Jo. Kit Haretoot,. By Ge 3 Rollo, the Boy Banger, the Girl Miner. Bro en and es A By Ca fst. By os raced 89 Islan ridge Hemyng. 90 The Dread aiden B aldo Browne. 91 The oom ofthe © st or, THE YOUNG RrvaL ATHEETES. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 92 Canada Chet. By Edward L. Wheeler. 93 The Boy Miners, By Edward 5. Ellis. 94 Midnight Jack. By T, C. Harbaugh. 95 The Rival Rovers. Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. 5X 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 i 2 3 4 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 4 ” 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 Edward a ene. DOW Weakat eee. P wheeler. 96 Watch-Eye, THE SHapow. By E. L. Wheeler. | 97 The Outlaw Brothers, By J. J. Marshall. 98 Robin Hood, THE OvtTLAweD Ear; or, THE MERRY MEN oF GREENWOOD. Prof. Gildersleeve. 99 The Viger of Taos. By G. Waldo ap hag 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A SrrRaNGE STROKE FoR Liserty. By Wheeler. 101 Jack Harkaway in New York. By Bracebridge Hemyng 102 Dick Dead-Fye. By Col Ingraham. Jos. E. Badger, Jr. | Yankee. By Co P tierehan. EMON, Or, THE | om —— ~~ oS mk ee re ee ke cee a eee ee COCOGR «GOGO BOGE CO GORD ROR ROS ROE NO et et By Wheeler. | Captain Mayne Reid. oh ren By A.W. Aiken, | 8 | 175 Captain Arizona, | 176 The Boy Runaway. The Lion of the Sea. Deadwood Dick’s Device. B Old Rube, THE Hunter. Capt. H. Holmes Old Frosty, THe Guive. By T. C. Harbaugh One-Eyed Sim, By James L. Bowen. Daring S By Harry St. George. Deadwood ick as a Wetec tive. By Edward L, Wheeler. The oy baw Steed of the Prairies, A Thrilli of Texan Adventure. By Bowen. The“ tree vil. By Col. P. Ingraham. The Mad Hunter, By Burton Saxe. Jack Hoyle, THE Younec a ae or, Tue Roan To FORTUNE. By Ed. L. Wheeler. The Black Schooner, Roger Starbuck. The Mad Miner. By G. Waldo Browne. The Hussar Captain. Col. P. Ingraham. Gilt-Edged Dick. By E. L. Wheeler. Will Somers, tHe Boy Derscrtrve. Morris, Mustang Sam, By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. The Branded Hand, By Frank Dumont. Cinnamon Chip. By Fdward L. Wheeler. Phil Hardy, Tux Boss Boy. By C. Morris, Kiowa Charley, By T. C. Harbaugh. Tippy, THe Texan. By George Gleason. Bonanza Bill, Miner. By Ed. L. Wheeler. Picayune Pete. By Charles Morris. Wild-Fire, Boss orTHe Roap. By Dumont. The Young Privateer. By H. Cavendish. Deadwood Dick’s Double, By Wheeler. Detective Dick. By Charles Morris. The Golden Hand. By Geo. W. Browne. The Hunted Hunter. By Ed. 8. Ellis. Boss Bob, THE Kine oF = BooTBLAcks: or, THE Paw NBROKER z Pior. Ed L. Wheeler. Sure Shot Seth. Oll Coomes. . - tain Paul, on OKY ge ey ay HE Boy Spy: OF THE MouNTAINS. Bole Night-Hawk Kit. By Jos. E. rr, oF The Helpless Hand. Capt. Mayne © Reid. pone ili; or, Deapwoop Dick’s Home BASE. , Edwatd L. Wheeler. Tadee’ ynch, —a Bie HH C. Harbaugh. Blue Blazes, Dumont, Solid Sam, or y Roap-AGENT; or, THE BraxpDeD Brows. By Edward L Wheeler Handsome Harry. By Charles Morris. Scar-Face Saul, y Ou Coomes wetnty | Lance, THE Boy Sport. By Badger. Captain Ferret. By Edward L. Wheeler. Silver Star, THE Boy KnicHrT. Will Wildfire, trae THoxoversren; Tae Winnine Hand. By Charles Morris Sharp Sam. By J. Alexander Patten A Game of Gold. By Ed. L. Wheeler. Lance and Lasso. By Capt. F.Whittaker. Panther Paul, Tre Prarie Pirate; or, Dainty LANCE TO THE Rescun. J. E, Badger. Black Bess, Wi. Wirprire’s Racer, or, Wiynine AGarnst Opps. By Charles Morris. Kagle Kit, Tas Boy Demon. By Oll Coomes, The Swerd Hunters. By F. Whittaker. Gold Trigger, THe Sport. T. C. Harbaugh. } Deadwood Dick of Deadwood | THe Pickep Party. By Edward L. Wheeler. Miike Merry, THe Harsor Pouce Boy; or, THe Nicut-HAwKS oF Purapetpara. Morris. Fancy Fran, of Colorado. Buffalo Bill The Lost Captain. By Whittaker. The Black Giant. By J. E. Badger, Jr. New York Nell. By E. L. Wheeler. Will Wildfire in the Woods. Morris. Little Texas. By Oll Coomes. Dandy Rock’s Pledge. By G.W. Browne. Billy Baggage. By Charles Morris. 166 Hickory Marry. By Harry St. George. 167 Asa Scott, Tue Sreampoat Boy. By Willett, 168 Deadly Dash. By Jos. £. Badger, Jr. 169 Tornado Tom. By T. C. Harbaugh. 170 A Trump Card. By Charles Morris. 171 Ebony Dan. By Frank Dumont. 172 Thunderbolt Tom. By Harry St. George. 173 Dandy Rock’s Rival. By G.W. Browne. 174 Bob Rockett, Tux Boy Dopcer. By Morris, | By Philip S.Warne. By Lieut. Perry. 177 Nobby Nick of Nevada, E L, Wheeler. 178 Old Solitary. By Oli Coomes. oak kp pp ecoceose ae toes here ias ove ee ee ee ee ee CeeH S&S OCPtAkw or, 180 The Sea Trailer. By Lieut H. D. Perry. 181 barbara Frank, THE Buckskin Bravo; or, Lapy Lity’s Love. By Edward L. Wheeler. 182 Little Hurricane, By Olli Coomes. 183 The Hidden Hand. By Chas. Morris | 184 The Boy Trailers. By Badger, Jr. 185 Evil Eye, Kixe or Catriz Tairves; or, THE VULTURES OF THE Rio Granpg. By F. Dumont. 186 Cool Desmond, By Col. Delle Sara. 187 Fred HMalyard. By Charles Morris. 188 Ned Temple, raz Borper Boy. Harbaugh. 189 Bob Rockett, rmx Cracksman. By Morris. 190 Dandy Darke. By Ww. R. Lyster. 191 Buffalo Billy. By Capt. Taylor, U. 8. A, 192 Captain Kit. By Lieut. A.D. Perry,U.S.N, By Col. Delle Sara. | Wheeler. | | 193 Captain Mask. By Philip 8. Warne, 194 Buffalo Bill’s Bet. By Captain Taylor, | 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream, By Wheeler, | 224 By Coomes. | | | 232 | 249 Milo Homer. | | } 215 te pe Bullet, tHe Rainer Kime. By | | 234 235 236 237 ene Star, the Cowboy Captain; es 196 Shadowed. By Charles Morris. 197 Little Grit, Trax Witp Riper, By Ingraham. 198 Arkansaw, THE MAN WiTH THE KxUFE By T. C. Harbaugh. 199 Featherweight. By Edward Willett. 200 The Boy Bedouins, By Whittaker. 201 The Black Hills Jezebel. By Wheeler 202 Prospect Pete. By Oll Coomes. | 203 The Boy Pards, By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 204 Gold Plume, tux Boy Banprr, Ingraham. 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom, By Wheeler 206 Dark Paul, Tue Tiger Kina, By C. Morris. 207 Navajo Nick. ByT. ©. Harbaugh. 208 The Boy Hercules, By Oll Coomes. 209 Fritz, THe Bounv-Boy Drerecrivg. Wheeler. 210 Faro Frank of High Pine, By Eyster. 211 Crooked Cale, By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 212 Doshing Dave, THE Danpy Derecrivu. By Charles Morris. 213 Fritz to the Front. 214 Wolfgan THE RospBER OF THE RHINE. By Captain Frederick Whittaker. By E. L. Wheeler. Harbaugh. 216 Bison Bill, tar Price or tae Res. By Col Prentiss Ingraham, 217 Captain Crack-Shot. By E.L Wheeler. 218 Tiger Tom, Tae Texan Terror. By Oli Coomes. 219 Despard, the Duelist. By P. 8S. Warne. 220 Tom Tanner, SCALAWAG AND SCAPEGRACE By Charles Morris Sugar Coated Sam, By E. L Wheeler. Grit, the Bravo Sport, By Ingraham. Ozark Alf, Kine orf THs Movntarw. By Edward Willett. Dashing means or, TRAPPER Tom’s CasTLr. By Oll Coom Sam © Pasties: By Charles Morris. Snoozer, THe Boy SHarp. By E. L. Wheeler. Dusky Darrell, Trapper. By E. Emerson, Little Wildfire. By Oll Coomes. Crimson Kate, THE Grr TRAILER. Col. Prentiss Ingraham. The Wankee Rajah. By C. D. Clark. Plucky Phil, or rHe Mountamn Tram. By T. C. Harbaugh. Gold-Dust Dick. Joe Buck, of Angels Pavut PowpDERHORN. By Albert W. Aiken. Old Rocky’s ** Boyees; or, Benrro, THE YounGc HorsE-BreakeErR. By Buckskin Sam Shadow Sam, THE Messencer Boy; or, TURNING THE TABLES. By Charles Morris. Apoue. Bill, rsx Traw Tornano. By Ed- ward L_ Wheeler, 221 222 223 225 226 | 227 228 229 230 231 By By E. L. Wheeler. 233 AND Hrs Boy Parp Mysterious RancHErRo, By P. In 238 The Parson Detective. By Ol Cntisbe. 239 ane Gold-seeker Guide; or, Tar Losr Mountains. By Captain Mayne Reid. 240 Cyclone Kit. By Edward L. Wheeler. 241 Bill Bravo and His By T. C. Harbaugh. 242 The Two ‘ Bloods’, By Charles Morris. 243 The Disguised Guide. By Oll Coomes. 244 Sierra oui Tae FrontTrer Ferrer. By Edw L. Wheeler. 245 Merle, the Middy. By Col. P. Ingraham 246 Giant George. By Buckskin Sam. 247 old Grizzly and His Pets. By Captain Bruin ”* Adams 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret. By EF. L. Wheeler By Capt. Fred. Whittaker. Bear Pards,. | 950 Midshipman Mutineer. By Ingraham | 951 Light-house Lige. By J. F. 0, Adams ; 254 The Half Blood: or, Tax PanrHER or } | 252 = ee Chas Worse’ or, A Dakora Boy 1x 179 Bob Rockett, raz Banx Runner. Morris | Orr ago. By Chas. 253 morta Sam’s Pard. By E. 1, Wheeler. paca apy By Edward 8. Ellis. 255 Ons ain Apollo, THE Krxa-Pus or Bown; or, oo 0’ LiguTnixe’s Fervup. Harbaugh, 256 Young Kentuck; or, Tae Rep Lasso. By Captain Mark Wilton, Ready June 20th. 257 The Lost Hunters + GROUND Camp, By Captain By T. C. or, THE UnpEr- J.F.C. Adams. a Mendy June 27th, A new issue every week The Half-Dime Library is for sale b | Newsdealers, five cents per zany or sent by mail on | receipt of six cents each. ADL «& AVAMS, | Publishers, 98 William Street, New York,