Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 277) (1882 11 14)
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5) | | PR RT LIN wie i . —_ i a a SS a eee fa ‘ ms) x cd R | / a \\ \\ \ | ; 4 . | a 4 : . \N iets \ \) ite a! The 1 bs igi = a ‘ A ? Se —— : nee hS oes YES)\ eh aa | P br =, \, Ne er eee zi la al ht i il a Ll ti i VES a SNS 2 2.0 & year, Entered at the Post. Office at ) New York, N. ¥., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyrighted In 1882 by BRADLE Anp APAMs.” “; November M, 18m Single PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS Price, Vol. XI. Number. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. & Cents. No. 277, DENVER DOLL, tHe peTECTIVE QUEEN; °° ™@"222,==="* "2 SURROUND. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ DEADWOOD DICK ”\NOVELS, “ ROSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, “ GILT-EDGED DICK,” “BONANZA BILL,” ETC., ETO. Cx y WAS . Na “¢, ° — a GEE im bass Ws | GO my. \ ee Ay: ‘ re
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— AUTEGR OF Denver Doll, The Detective Queen; OR, Yankee Eisler’s Big Surround, BY E. L. WHEELER, “DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, “@PSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, ETC, CHAPTER I. ONE NIGHT’S MYSTERY. “fr yar! ki! yi! didn’t I done gone tell-yer? Thar if goes ag’in, honey. Et’s de cry ob a chile, suah sartin!” And Fite Walter August Christie, more com- moonly known as Walt, rolled his comical eyes toward his three companions, his ebony coun- tenance glowing with triumph. But his three cOMpanions hovered closer to the lonely camp-fire that crackled briskly upon the gulch bottom, as if they were in no wise eager to venture forth to ascertain from whence ad whom had emanated ibe piteous wailing cry that had twice faintly pealed forth on the chill November night. It was rather a picturesque scene. The camp fire burned in the mouth of a deep narrow gulch of forbidding aspect, and at a oint where it opened out upon a bar orspro- jection, three sides of which were washed by the waters of a dark, swift, silent river, whose appearance was no more inviting than the wild mountainous country that gave it birtb. Four men were gathered about the camp-fire, with rifles, picks and shovels lying by their sides, showing them to be prospectors; and over all fell the first gentle flakes of the earliest: au- tunanal snow-storm. The air was keen and chill, and the fleecy harbingers of approaching winter which the night brought on told that few comfortable days could be experienced out of doors in that wild region for some months to come, Tbe darky was tbe spokesman of the crowd, and appeared to consider himself virtually the leader. He was a trim, spruce-appearing fel- low, and had more than ordinary sagacity and intelligence expressed im his face. One of his companions was a ponderous Putchman of enormous girth, who grunted at every breath like an over-fattened hog and re- joiced in the happy cognomen of Jacob Strauss or Yakie, for short, He was, despite his size, rather good-looking in Sp ponerge and ssemed to 6 pride in waxing out the heavy mustache which he wore. Both be and Walt. were attired in miners’ habiliments and were well armed. Next to Yakie was huddled up an almond- eyed Chinaman, about whom there was nothin particularly noticeable more than that he stil wore his native queue, and had rather a craft expression of countenance, not uneommon wit a Celestials found in the mountains of the est. The fourth person was a prisoner, bound to a tame near the firo—a man of some two-and- twenty , in whose face was reflected little that was'villainous or bad, Why he was held in confinement will presont- ly be developed. ‘ The words of the darky, as stated, had no startling effect upon his auditors. Chug, the Chinaman, gave a disinterested yawn, as he re- lit his pipeful of opium, and Yakic grunted louder than ever, “Dot vas a vildcat!” he growled. ‘ You don’d vas know noddings, you plack shackass.” ‘* Golly! I knows more in one minute dan dat whole Germany,” Walt asseverated. ‘I say dat was de scream ob a chile, done gone suah, an’ de on instincts ob our natures should cause us fru blud an’ water to save dat yar kid, sah wee vants to go, vy, dot ish all righd; I don’d!” Yakie declared. “‘My skin vas vorth ae mooch to sell it to der vildcats und lions so sneap. ‘* He! he! lions in Americal’ sneered Walt. ‘You's done can tole a lion from a coon, fo’ suah! Yar’s Chug; he even knows dat dar’s nuffin like lions in America—hi, piggy?” Chug looked sagacious, but shook his head. ““Velly muchee liar in ’Melical” he declared, “ Chinaman nebber lie allee samee likes ’"Meli- can Tan.” Just then came another cry floating into the lemely camp on the keen bree@—i; moaning, a Denver D oll, the piteous sort of wail peculiar to 4 child in dis- tress. Walt could stand this no longer; he leaped to his feet, his eyes rolling lidicrously and peering about in the darkness, *“*T jes’ wish to goodness Denver Doll was hyar!” be cried. ‘Dat yar ery done gone cbill all der marrer in dis chile’s. bones, ’deed it does. Yar’s some lost baby in de niountings, an’ I ’clar’ to de Lor’ it’s our duty. to go to de rescue. Will you go ‘long, Chug?” ‘* Chinaman belly big coward!” the Celestial said, hugging the fire closer, ‘No good at fightee—git lickee like debbil. No go wid black "Melican man,” The man at the stake, who, while listening and watching, had evinced considerable inter- est, now spoke up. “The black terrier is right!” he said,in a voice of conimand, ‘That is no animal ery. There is undoubtedly a child in distress, some- where in this vicinity, and it is your duty, as men, to go to its rescue. If you are too cow- ardly, pray, grant. me the privilege to go in search of it. If I fail to return, you can for- ever know Tom Jarvis is a liarand an ingrate.” Yakie Strauss took his pipe from his mouth, long enough to put his thumb sarcastically to his nose, ‘‘ Not if der Consditution of der United States vas acquainted mit “herself, und she’ rather dink she‘ vas!” he chuckled, knowingly.” “ You vas a purty shmardt rooster, maype somedimes all der wile, Misder Jarvis, but you don’d vas can come some foony. pizness ven Yakie Strauss vas around. You. pelong to der robber gang | off McParland und Co.; und ve yoost hold you till der boss comes.” “You will find your mistake when Denyer Doll comes,” Jarvis replied, seeming to be a little worried at the Dutchman’s flat refusal. **Tam in no way acquainted with McParland, nor do I serve him in any respect.” A grunt from Yakie was all the answer this assertion elicited, Christie had crept out of sight up the gulch. Satisfied that he could get no assistance among his own comrades, the plucky fellow had made up his mind to go it alone, ina ven- ture to solve the mystery of the wailing cry. He had more than once proven himself a brave darky, and was known to have no lack of courage in an emergency. He had left his rifle at the camp, but had a trusty revolver drawn, ready for use, and thus equipped, crept on in the direction of the place whence came the sound. It was some ten or fifteen minutes ere he heard another cry—but he was all attention at the time, and consequently gained a more ac- curate bearing. In half an hour he had gained a sort of trans- verse ravine, several hundred feet above the level of their camp, and at some distance from it, Here his search ended, in the face of a specta- cle that caused him to dart back, egueet: Lying upon the rocky earth, her tattered garments partly whitened by the falling snow- flakes, was a young woman—one who had re- cently possessed great beauty, but whose face was pow white and pinched, the probable ef- fects of privation. Upon the ground, from a wound in her side, wes a clotted 1. of blood—and she was so ele and still, that Walt was satisfied she was upon the bundled in a shawl, sat a little girl of about four years of age, sobbing as if heart would break, her at fixed {upon the lifeless body of the murd woman, The white in Walt’s eyes enlarged very con- siderably, as he took in the scene, but where terror would have taken hold of many of his race, pity seized u kind heart, and he forward to do whatever he could. “Yar, honey, jes’ done gone cry no more,” he said, kneeling beside the child, and noting that it was a remarkably pretty one. ‘Tse jes’ gwine to. take de best ob care ob you, [ is, an’ hope to de Lor’ if I don’t ki-yarve any’ one s ye Near her, as’tempts to speak a cross word to you. cold, honey?” ‘Me so told—me so hun little one, ‘‘ Mamma gone wake her up!” Tears entered the negro’s. eyes, and he seized the child in bis arms. “Come! we'll jes’ done gone an’ get warm an’ somethin’ to eat, honey, and den dis yar chile will come back after yer mammv.” The prospect of warmth and food caused the little one to look up gratefully into Walt’s ebony ‘fdce, end her tears immediately subsided. Y’ moaned the sleep, an’ I tant Detective Queen. RE Se RE RE Before leaving the scene of the ghastly crime, Walt perceived that one hand of the woman clutched a tiny silver box, while the other con- tained a crumpled pene latter mayhap a message from the dead. Realizing the necessity of ‘obtaining #11 powsi- ble clew to the crime, the darky secured both box and paper, 4nd thrust them into his pocket; and, with the cMfd in his arms, be set out for the camp. : Denver Doll had arrived in camp, during Bake absence, coming from over the river, in a boat, To state that she was a Pe specimen of young womanhood, would be drawing it mild. ew were they who had met her, who could not candidly say she wes queen among young women, : Of just a trifle above the medium hight of women, and cast in nature’s happiest mold, her figure in its neat fitting suit of male attire would attract admiration in any crowd, for its symmetry and grace. . Her face was fait and expressive, with a power to change from’ pleasantry to sternness in an instant, and though usually wearing a happy look, there lurked an expression about the brilliant black, eyes, and the marble fore- head, that told of: some past trouble, which would not. be forgotten, | - Her rich brown hair fell in rippling waves half-way {to her waist. A plumed slouch hat of snowy white; an elegant suit of gray, and patent leather top boots, with a diamond-stud- ded ‘‘ Wiled” shirt, collar, and a sash about her waist beneath the coat, made up her costume, and gave her an appearance at once dashing, and characteristic of the wild roving existence she Jed. For she was a ‘‘ character,” a strange one, too. Where she belonged, no one knew, for she was here, there, and everywhere; what was ber early history, no one could say, though there were some who»wou!ld insinuate that it might not be pleasant for her to have her past exposed, f these hints ever reached her ears, she never noticed them, and there were none ready to say they had ever been aware of her doing any wrong of greater enormity than popping over an occasional border ruffian, or skinning some self-suppcsed card-sbarp at his own game, It was no secret that she was a detective; it was no secret that she was a terror to, and hated by, the ruffian and outlaw element of the mountains and mines; it was no secret that she knew her own business, was a keen, nervy, dis- cerning, but respectable woman of the world. Hardly a woman, either, for she looked not a day older than eighteen, and at times had the vivacity and immature romp of a child of fourteen, nevertheless, being never off her uard. 7 Nor was it a secret that she had sworn to break up the notorious Dmg gang of Jokn McParland, who, in their own mountain fastness, had for-months bidden defiance to law. and order, to say nothing of the scores of bold robberies and other desperate deeds they had committed. McParland and his men bad also sworn dire vengeance u the brave girl from Denver, and it seemed only a matter of time when the ara enemies must triumph, one over the other. So that it was little wonder that the Detec- tive Queen’s eyes lit up with a victorious glitter, when she walked into her camp, and saw one of McParland’s right-hand men imprisoned to a stake, ’ “¢ Jarvis!” she exclaimed, pausing near him, and leaning upon her rifle. “I would sooner have a visit from McParland, himself, Where'd ye blow him in, Yakie?” The Teuton glanced around him before he answered. ‘¢ Vel, I dells you how id vas!” he said, ‘risivg, and swelling with bravado. ‘‘T found dat veller sneakin’ mit der outside off der camp around, und dells him “He better surrender right avay quick or ¥ plow his prai:s in—und dat vasall dervas of it. He obey mo yoost like a leedle shackass mule:” * Muchee big lie!” Chug commented. ‘*"Melica Duteh no ketchee man.” “Of course he didn’t!” Jarvis chimed in, ‘I was led into camp by the ear, by that cursed nigger of yours. He caught me napping, and waltzed me in, wi’ a six-time-slugger under my left norstril!” wi je “ You vas a pig Vief—you vas liars!’ Yakie cried, enraged that he not for once stea! the thunder of the oecasion. ‘‘I sue you for
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me ee der breach off bromise—I scalp you—I placks your eyes mit pluing quicker ash dunder. He undoubtedly would have wreaked some sort of ceewnen upon the young outlaw, had not Denver Doll pushed him back, sternly. “Hold!” she cried. ‘Let him alone. Who commands here?” ‘*T paralyze him!” Yakie growled, shaking his head like a baffled bull. P “Will you?’ Doll inquired, significantly shoving a six-shooter in under his ruddy nose, **Do you know what you'll get if you don’t obey orders. Phiz! Bang !” Yakie leaped back with a yell of fright, al though the ‘ bang” was only a verbal one. “Sdop! sdop! I dakes it all pack!” he howled. ‘I vas ogly fooling all der w’ile. I vas yoost showing how prave I vas.” At this juncture, there was a clatter of horese’s hoofs on the rocky bottom of the gulch, the sound coming from the depths df tie gulch, as it ran back into the mountains. Denver Doll and her two companions seized their rifles, anf stood on the defensive, expect- ing an attack; but to their surprise, they be- held only Walt Christie emerge from the gloom, carrying a child in his arms. “Char de track dar, chil’r an!” he cried; ““hyar we'’se a-comin’, to de golding weddin’, Bring out de ’freshments an’ de nussin’ bottle, tor dar’s a new citizeng added tew de populat- ing ob Shihin’ Bar, fo’ suah!” ’ Later, a search was made for the body of the murdered woman, buf, although the pool of blood was discovered, the body was not to be found! © It was one night’s mystery! CHAPTER II. SHINING BAR UNDER A NEW LIGHT. A YEAR later we will look down on Shining Bar—not now the same lonely camp wherein we opened our story, but the same location transformed into a prosperous mining camp, eee indeed, as compared withits former popu- ation. The bar of neck of land that projected into the river, was thickly built up with shanties and tents, but they were irregular as far as streets were concerned, there being but one street having any pretensions thereto, and on this was located the few business places of which Shining Bar boasted. There were of course more saloons and gam- bling houses than other places of traffic, or it could not haye been classed as a mining town. One general store’supplied the wants of the aces so far asedibles and cloth were concerned, in addition to being the post-office, and having the pleasure of furnishing fire-arms and ammu- nition to such perso s as desired to take a hand in ‘the great affling’ act,’ as death-dealing was sometimes termed. _ And it is needless to say, that this branch of Sullinder's Supply Store was well patronized by the rough and ready citizens of the still in- fantile but flourishing city of Shining Bar. Then, there were the saloons where a a hor could fill his being with ‘coffin nail,’ get robbed either by pickpockets or gamblers, or: even could be provided with a funeral, on short no- tice. “Also several dance-houses; a theater playing the acknowledged reigning successes of the season; a smithy, and a mammoth ore mill which did the crushing and smelting for sever: mining districts besidé Shining Bar—so that the Bar bowed gracefully to the fact that she was a place of considerable importance, | er population, both floating and permanent, was a heterogeneous mixture, in which the rough and lawless element prevailed to a large extent, A Vigilance Committee had been organized however, and under Harry Burke’s efficient pre pen had iu a méasure established order, although the laws were all home-made. In such a state we find Shining Bar, on look- ing down by ke it a year from the opening night of our story—a far pleasanter night, how- ever, with less chill, and no snow. A crowd had collected outside the post-office, to await the coming of the evening stage from Glander’s Gulch, which was unaccountably late, being overdue by three hours at theleast, In the East, such a fact would scarcely have elicited an inquiry; but the fect that John Mc- Parland -still made things lively for mountain stages and travelers, gave cause’ for uneasiness in Shining Bar. For the daring desperado had been more than bold of late, since Denver Doll was no more seen in the mountain towns, and the report had gone forth that she had met her death. Se a Seen See a “Tell ye ther thing looks squally fer ther SMarkward stage, boys!” observed Markward, one the Bar’s rising young citizens. ‘‘ I’d hardly take chances bettin’ that McParland hasn’t stopped the hearse to-night.” ° “*Injins an’ alligators, no—nuther would 1!” chimed in Old Pap Mount, stroking his long white beard. ‘“ By ther eye-tooth uv old Jupi- ter, b’yees, et seems miter cur’ous as how we can’t hev some one among us as ain’t afeard ter sailin an’ clean out thet onilaw gang, root an’ branch. Ef I war as young a boyee as | uster be—great horned ace uv Taos—l’d undertake the hull job myself!” “What's this! what’s this!” a dapper indi- vidual demanded,’ pushing Coreatd with a note-hook and pencil in hand; “is there an accident?—has anything happened?—was any one hurt, and how many! BS tellme! Vma reporter, gentlemen—yes, sirs, # newspaper correspondent, 1 represent the Cavortiiv Cyclone, published in Cheyenne, and *pon ’onor, if I do say it, I’m counted one o’ the finest! Jones is my name—Chawles P, Jones. Pstands for Pygmalion, instead of Pat or Peter, as some vulgarly suppose. Ahem!” The advent of Mr. Pygmalion Jones, while it did not create any decided sensation, served to momentarily check the conversation of the crowd, “ He was a new arrival at the Bar, and new arrivals ‘were invariably regarded with sus- picion, until they had fully proven themselves unworthy of confidence. As this was the first time Jones had made known his business, a laugh followed bis intro- ductory, Old Pap, being the only sober visaged individual in the crowd. “ Pilgrim!” he said, with solemnity becoming a full-fledged monk, “d’ye feel averse tew chawin’ down a leetle piece uv advice, tendered by an old nugget from Pike’s Peak, w’at’s dug in ther sands o’ every camp ih ther golden West?” ‘* Advice? Aha! ’tis a great blessing to re eeive it from the aged, and to profit by it. ceed, venerable father: I listen with eagerness!” Jones responded, Seer yathh at! “Tnjins an’ alligators! Thort ye’d not go back on an old landmark like yer uncle!” Pap grunted, ‘‘D’ye see the. enol) up ther gulch thar, and that slab s#@kin’ up?” r “T see it, sir—the memento of some past and gone enterprise, [ take it.” ** Jes’ so, pilgrim :— ‘A feller came a paper to start. At ther shanty on ther knoll, He claimed he was most orful smart; Most wond’rous news he tole; But he hadn't fairly got a start, ’Fore we chucked ’im in a@ hole, .“ A thunderin’ lie one day he told, About old Slaughter Steve Who w’ars his pistols in his boota, An’s Jad, ye may believe;— He said as how old Slayghter hid Five aces up his sleeve. * Six bullets did ther job fer him ; is Herald failed to bloom; We burnt thér shanty over thar, An’ it’s served him fer a tomb; So ef you don’t git up an’ dust, Fer you thar’s graveyard room|!" A grim silence reigned as Pap concluded; a host of ominous visages were turned toward the reporter of the Cavortin’ Cyclone, with looks that were not calculated to inspire him with feel of animation_over his prospects as a ta et in Shining Bar; so with a deep sigh, e turned and walked mechanically away, with the mien of a melancholy Dane. While Old Pap winked, knowingly. **Here’s tous young llers!” he said, as he took a nip from bis private flask. “Thet feller should know thet tbar’s no hereafter fer re- porters in Shinin’ Bar—great horned alligator o’ Taos, no!” “We were talkin’ about some one who could sail in and capture McParland the road-agent,” said Markward, grimly. ‘“‘ You bet thar’s not ther man livin’ as can bag ahs a feather out of that galoot’s cap. Even Burkey is afeared ter leave camp. Maybe a reward would turn up some chap as has got more luck than sense.” ‘‘That might easy be!” a voice exclaimed, and a stranger was for the first, seen standing near. ‘‘ Supposing you nominate some first class sort of a reward, and see how quick [ll gobble on to it!” “Who are you?” demanded Mr. Verner, one of the solid men of the town—a spe tor, rich and influential. But even though he asked the question, a close observer might have surmised he only asked it to coneeal the agita- Pro- | ‘striking and dashing. s* stranger—an seianion which brought pallor to 3. new-comer, as be gazed for a moment at Ver- ner, un “IT fancy you have no need to ask that ques- tion?” he replied, in a tone that expressed very little admiration for the man he addressed. ‘But, for the information of all concerned, | am usually called Yankee, which answers ui the purposes of a name!” Yankee! ; There were men in agi Bar, who bad heard of the name before. name it was, peculiar to the mining repians of California ; it belonged to an individual who newer worked, more than to indulge in an occasional fight, or to win a fortune by the turning of a card, and then very foolisbly—as the worldly men of the mines viewed it,—turn around and donate it to some Charity; one who was reputed to bave cleaned ovt his ten men in a single handed fight, and within an hour afterward had won ten thousand, dollars from a _ banker, at cards, and used the amount toward defray - ing the funeral expenses of his victims, .and providing for their wives, and children, when any were to be found; a ‘nervy,’ practiced, well-educated, thoroughly experienced man-of- the-world, though be had not long left his tecns bebind, Straigtt as an arrow, of a little over medium light, and well PEOPEOneR possessed of re- markable muscular development, hard flash, and great agility of motion, little wonder that he bad the notoriety of being a formidabie an- tagonist as well as a friend to “‘ tie vo.” __ In face he was handsome, with clearly cut, reguiar features, a firm but pleasant mouib, and dark liquid eyes that had a power of mag- netic intensity in their gaze; hair of a dark brown hue, and worn in tight short curls over his shapely head, and a handsome mustache upon his lip, His garments were of coarse but serviceable material, the pants being thrust into a pair cf top-boots, and the jacket open: Oh the throat, exposing to view a marble-like neck. A slouch prairie hat rested upon his head, weapons of fine finish were in his belt, anda repeating rifle in his. band, completed an pri at once The announcement of his name sed the crowd to stare, but had no more visible effect upon Verner, than had the first sight of bim. ‘“Yes, ’'m Yankees, and I’d like no better job than to adjust the noose about the neck of cParland, the road-agent, I assure you, gents. Propose a fat reward and I'm your man! : ‘The people of Shining Bar wil! undoubtedly use discretion in regard to whom they pay re. wards,” sneered Verner, as he turned away: “Tf you mean that as an cyst Valen- tine Verner, permit me to remark tha’ T do not deem it of the slightest importance what you think,” Yankee retorted, as he sent a stern lance after the speculator. ‘‘I did not come 1ere to have trouble with you, but if you pre- fer, I can undoubtedly noccnmnodabe 5 oar Verner walked a in silence, and the stage came booming down into the town just then, loaded with passengers, .ing#e and out, -and with Mickey or, the boggJehu of the road, het Baie his long-lashed wliig} over his eight-in. hand. No better “ribbon handler” was there in all — $s pangs one Mickey, whe. nerer had an sed ent, except it was caused by the frisky agen’ of McParland; therefore Micke was 7 prime favorite, and never lacked for. free, ‘bug- juice” while in Shining Bar, foe 5 Although his stage had been stopped times — innumerable, he bad nearly as often ving ones as the bold knight, McParland, and knowing ones declared that ‘‘ Mac” would no sooner barm a hair of Mickey’s head than he would cut off his own right hand, for the bold brigand was aa admirer of bravery. |. j But_it was a sorry-looking crowd the stage brought in that night, for the looks of the pas- sengers told the old, old story, as well.as words could have done—the stage bad met McParland and his merry meen. pri Even Exyor_ wee sullen, and mt ps horses back upon their hewnches, before thé Post-office with a will, amd allowed the passengers to get A «Chane to ander” Wat hie dinid ata ° under!” was bis simple announce- ment, when Wells-Fargo’s agent came forward, - “'Twarn’t no use to be mulish; the were ton ter one ag’in’ us, an’ pts ath or 23 A how! of anger went,&p from the crowd, for many miners and some ulators had moneys 7 “ hd } bes + ime thes rv ‘ U ae . ee
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4 or valuable property coming to them on that stage, as well as letters and papers. So that for the remainder of that evening Shining Bar was in a turmoil of commotion over the robbery, and the streets were never fer once deserted of an excited crowd oe the passengers who alighted from the stage, Yankee noticed the figure of a woman clad in deepest mourning, with her face so well concealed as to be invisible to outward gaze. Shining Bar boasted of a commodious board- gl which was conducted in a quiet, orderly manner, to the exclusion of all the rough element, and thither the vailed woman wended her way, as if familiar with the town. Y watched her until she had disap- og ‘with an interested gaze, and even then fo meuatered about the Bar as to keep the boarding-hduse under surveillance. “Strikes me I have seen that woman before, under other circumstances,” he murmured, ‘but I cannot place her now. It is the grace- ful, agile motion of her figure that recalls her.” lt an hour Jater Denver Doll left the board- ing-house—for Denver Doll the vailed woman was—and advanced toward the Post-office. Then a light of understanding entered the Sport’s eves. “Ah, I have it now! I thought I was not mistaken. The Queen of Detectives, eh? know her, but she does not knowme, I wonder what brings her' here? Probably after the devil, MeParland. Ha! ha! ha!” He watched her go into the Post-office, and come out again, when she betook her way to the long frame shanty called the ‘‘ Monaco.” Here, night and day, various games were hotly contested, and money exchanged hands nearly as fast as in the European resort from which the den took its name. “Pll get a cigar,” Yankee decided, ‘‘ and then I'll see what success the pretty spotter has at gambling—if so be that is why she goes there.” Down the street he spied a cigar-sign above the door of a cosey little shanty, and sauntered that way. The sign read: “CRYSTAL CARROL, ‘“ DEALER IN CIGARS AND TOBACCO,” Entering the pigeon-hole store, the Sport saw no one, so he pushed open the slat door and en- tered the adjoining room, which proved to be a cosily fitted-up little bar-room, A young woman stood behind the counter. And Yankee uttered a cry of astonishment as his gaze rested upon her! CHAPTER III. THE DUEL. THE girl behind the bar seemed less surprised than the man, and judging by her expression, she had never met the Sport before, while he appeared to believe that in her he had met some former acquaintance; and the more he gazed the stronger seemed to be his conviction that he | Pygmalion dive knew her. “ Dora!” he said, at length. There was deep feeling im his tone—there was love in his glanee—his face expressed the emo- tion of one greatly moved, “ Dora 1!” He spoke the second time, but the young lady stared at him in blank surprise. “You are evidently mistaken, sir,” she spoke quietly’; “T have never borne the name of ora. “You are—?”’ ‘** Crystal Carrol.” “T am Yankee—otherwise Charlie Kisler, I was greatly impressed, at first sight, that I had met you before under different surround- ings, and fam not entirely convinced yet but what lam right. Dora?’ He called the name again, His every expres- sion of voice told of a deep, undying Jove for Dora, whoever she might be. He had spoken truly, evidently, in regard to his conviction, Miss Carro] did not seem highly pleased at his yearning stare and pleading w > “Tam sorry to say that you are — aT | : eatly mis- | taken,” she said, with a soberness thaé did not | belie her words. may chance to look ever so much Me her.” ** You do look like her; and if I am mistaken T trust you will excuse my—my—well, my im- pudence,” he said. ‘‘ A choice cigar, please.” She evidently was not offended, for, instead of setting forth the ‘‘custom” box, she drew from beneath the shelf a box of real Havanas. “IT trust you will smoke at the expense of the | for some time, shing bis money baek, | Doll engaged at a game of resemblance,” she said with a little laugh. ‘‘Such things do not hap- pen gee! | day, eg know.” ba em sm0 “Tam not Dora, although | | | } | clouds that arise from my cigar, I will not, rest assured, forget the giver—nor the past.” There was a trifle of bitterness expressed in the word “past,” but Miss Carrol apparently took no notice of the fact. She watched her eccentric customer light bis cigar and depart, and sent a lingering glance so after bim, as rry ye eet be ag “Yankee, otherwise Charlie Hisler,” she said, thoughtfully. ‘‘It strikes me I have heard the name before, although I cannot tell where, just.now.” She gazed out of the door, even after he was oné, a thoughtful expression upon her face and n her eyes. She was trying to recall to memory something of the past, and yet that something refused to be recalled. A fair maiden of less than nineteen summers, was Crystal Carrol, with features of exquisite symmetry, eyes blue and soulful, and hair that few of her sex could rival, while in figure she was petite and sprightly. But even though so seemingly delicate and inoffensive, she was master of a firm expression of mouth and eye, that told better than words that she had a spirit of her own, which could not be trampled on. For some time after Yankee’s departure, she was buried in reverie, until a footstep sounded in the doorway and she looked up to behold the man of reportorial proclivities, who had_intro- duced himself to the men of Shining Bar as Charles P. Jones, of the Carortin’ Cyclone, of Cheyenne. ' The very appearance of the fellow was suffi- cient to provoke a smile from Crystal. He was dapper and dandified. All that was effeminately masculine, was embodied in his make-up and in his motions, and placed in dif- ferent surroundings, he would have been the ideal of a lady’s man and a perenvig] ‘‘ masher.” With a pug nose, a fierce brigandish mus- tache, jetty, curling hair, and a mouth and ac- companying features of demure expression, and the make-up of a Broadway swell, general- ly, he was, in the slang of the day, ‘‘ too utterly too too for anything.” But from the moment Crystal’s eyes first rested upon the man, she formed a private opinion of him, and resolved to be on her guard ever, when he was around, “Ah! good-evening, m pretty miss, if it is not too late, nor too early,” was the initial of the Cyclone man. ‘Have you any very, very choice cigars, say two for a dollar? “Cert!” Crystal replied, without offering to roduce them. ‘‘I have some, two for ten dol- ars. I dare to presume they would fit you.” ‘Well, aw—you see—that is, my resources are not so very inexhaustible, just at present,” he stammered, ‘Well, perhaps cigars at a dollar each would suit you!” Crystal said. ‘‘ Ab! in the good old times ”—and Charles reflectively down’ into his pockets—‘‘in the good old times when a man could sit in his eagy-chair and write a half- column paragraph at fifty cents a line—then was when the representatives of the press could smoke the best of cigars. But on the ’umble pittance of ten a week, a man must nowadays curtail bis expenses. Tell you what I'll do, pretty miss, I’m reportin’ for the Cavortin’ Cyclone, of Cheyenne. If you will trust me for ten of the one-ers, 1’ll take ’em, an’ ye can charge it to the firm!” Crystal shook her head. ‘Cash talks, here,” she said, briefly, and she looked it as well. - ‘* And smoke too!” Jones added, with a laugh, and be seized the box from her hand, which she was about to restore to the shelf, and slid very quickly out of the door. Crystal made no attempt to follow him, but there was a confident little twinkle in her starry eyes. “ll remember that customer a few days,” she remarked, with a nod of her pretty head. Leaving the store of Crystal Carrol, Yankee made his way to the gaming saloon, where he had shortly before seen Denver Doll enter. It was one of the typical dens of the Western mining town, with its heterogeneous collection of habitues—therefore why describe it? Every table had its attraction in the way of a game, and every table had its watchers and players, te After wandering about the large Spaxnene ankee finally espie enver s with Mr. Verner. Sauntering around, the Sport finally einige a “ if diately in the e; and looking through the ' ed in gaining. position Imme Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. —__ eee —_ ——w rear of the speculator, in order that that per- sonage «night not be aware of his presence. The game was poker, and Doll won by sewv- eral points, and as the pot was for a hundred dollars a side, Verner naturally felt not a little chagrined, ‘* You are very. lucky, young woman,” he de- clared, sourly. ‘‘If you have sufficient assur- ance we will make it five hundred for one gama —just one game you know—no calling for re venger ‘*That is eaecnctory, to me,” Doll replied calmly, and with the declaration, she produced a roll of bills, and counted ont the sum named. Verner did the same, although he had the smaller roll of bills of the two. The game was then played, and the winner was the Detective Queen, who pocketed the stakes with a sang jroid that was inimitable. Verner took this loss more quietly than he had the first, but there was an ugly glitter in his eyes that became as wicked as that of a corraled rattlesnake when he beheld the quict smile of the aay who stood just behind his chair. ‘Very good; you have won, and won honest- ly!” he said. ‘“‘ Your success, however, was abetted by the fqaals of the individual behind me. Charles Eisler, you are a sneak and a spy, and I challenge you, here, before all, to meet me in mortal combat—a battle of life or death between us!” Yankee was somewhat surprised, for he had fancied that his presence in the rear of the speculator was not known to hirn. ‘If you really challenge I accept!” the Sport answered, pany: ‘*What weapons do you nominate, Lord Vanity?” ; “The choice, I believe, according to the code of honor, should be left to you!” Vermer replied, with intense bitterness of tone. ‘Then I will take advantage of that right,” Yankee said, grimly. ‘Each man. shall stri to the waist, and the weapons shall be salt an pepper, at three yards, nee Ned from suitable shot-guns. One gun shall loade. with pow- der, in addition to the salt and pepper, bat the other shall not be. We will draw sticks to see who has the shot with the salted gun. No mat- ter who wins, he must stand up and level his weapon in duelistic fashion, and accept of the general results, Is this agreeable to you?” Verner could not very well say no. ; He had proposed the duel himself, and that by the code gave Yankee the choice of arms; so he stiffly inclined his head in acquiescence. ‘* Will some kindly disposed person lend us a couple of shot. guns?’ Yankee asked, looking, over the crowd. A handsome pair of muazle-lodding nite we pieces were tendered, awd after being examined, were accepted by the Sport. “ Now the next thing we want is an honest and reliable man to load one of these weapons, as directed. We will then draw lots for the first choice of the guns, and proceed to business.’” “T! I! here! Pray allow me the honor of acting for this duel!” cried Jones, rushing up. “T have sovene and won more than fifty due myself, and being the favorite reparter for the Cavortin’ Cyclone, I can do honor to the. occa- sion. Jones is my name-—Chawles. Pygmalion Jones, of the Cavortin’ Cyclone.” wf ‘Guess not, Jonesy. ll reckon I'll act in this matier, if ther old court is aware of berself,’’ Denver Doll cried, arising from. the table, ‘‘ 1’) see that the mill is conducted in square shape! Load it with salt,and pepper, did you say, pard?’ and she took the guns. fee ‘Yes; give the one weapon a good dose, and now, while you're at it, we will retire to the outside and arrange things,” “T’ll fix the weapon all right, never foap. Denver Doll said, as Yankee led the way, and the crowd followed him out of the room; * Vij dose some one with spice if I never do another thing,” she smilingly remarked. Procuring the necessaries from the bartender she retired to one corner of the room, where she roceeded to load one of the shot-guns as she fad been directed, leaving the other leaping: against the wall until she should be ready take them both from the saloon. As soon as she had it loaded she left the sa- oon, : Out in the main street of the town the mgfley crowd was coneremated beneath the rays of the moon, which lit up the scene with mellow radi- ance. met The distance had already been measured off, and the antagonists were ready and in position. Denver Doll padsed midway between them, and looked from one to the other, at the sana time holding up a coin between the thumb and forefinger of her right band.
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; 3 : 9 “Tails up!” Doll cried. ' and pepper gun is yours. - Take your position: ~ was accepted; the Sport was borne to the little —-———-- eo gnome ere ——eteemer oo * MreVerner,”she said, “you have the choice | of choosing lots in this affair. Which shall it be—heads or tails?” ‘ Heads up!” Verner cried. ‘ The girl tossed the coin into the air, and it | fell upon the hard-pan bottom of the street with a sharp a Verner and Yankee advanced and _ peered down at it. ‘* Yankee, the salt all ready. you spectators on the sides, for this hvar’s got to be a squar’ thing!” . Verner received his weapon with an oath— the oath, more particularly, when he gazed around him and perceived that there was no | hope for him to avoid the ordeal. rim miners, with drawn revolvers, formed a barrier at every hand. Yankee received his weapon, an expression of triumph upon his faee that was significant of Jhis purpose, . ; Get to your places!” Doll cried. “ Mr. Ver- mer, your gun is loaded witha blank dose of wder, so that can do your antagonist no harm. ou must fire, nevertheless, at the given signal, or the cutsiders will salivate you! Are you ready, gents?” ** Ay!” spoke up Yankee, raising his gun. “All ready!’ Verner growled, evidently not | relishing the dose in store for him. ** Correct!” the Detec.ive Queen declared. * Fire at the word three. One!” The weapons came to bear. ** Two ” } There was no apparent fear expressed on the part of either of the men. **Three! Fire /’ cried Denver Doll. Phey did fire, each volley being discharged almost simultaneously. The result caused a murmur of astonishment among the line of spectators. Verner was eg | about frantically, rub- bing bis chest and face; and howling with | .agony—for if none of you readers have ever | ** been thar,” let us remark that a volley of salt and pepper is not the most delightful thing in the world to encounter. And Yankee! , Instead of standing triumphantly to witness | ‘the antics of his adversary he had thrown up this hands with a cry and fallen to the ground. Leaving Verner to himself, the crowd, headed by Denver Doll, rushed forward to ascertain the cause. Blood was trickling from a tiny hole in his left side, which had been made by a bullet, and. although he yet retained his senses, he was evi- dently hard hit. ‘*Great Heaven! you are shot!” Denver Doll, erie’, kneeling beside him. * You should know. You had charge of the weapons!” Yankee cried, sternly. : Denver Doll looked pained and anxious. “Prue, but as God is my judge I did not put a shotin either weapon, nor was I aware thati either was thus loaded!” “The gal is right?’ Old Pap Mount cried. ** Cavortin’ crockydiles! how could ye hev gota | single rifle-bullet wound out o’ ‘a shot-fun? Some one else has flred at ye, Yankee Doodle— great war-hoss of Taos, yes /” ** Perhaps!” the Sport said, dryly, as he in vain attempted to arise. « ‘Will some one as- sist me to someplace where I can have my wound dr : “Oh! bring the gentleman to my store—I have a couch he can lie upon until he can find betterjaccommodations!” cried a feminine voice, and Miss Crystal Carrol stepped forward. Few of tke miners cared about having a sick man in their house, and therefore the kind offer | ape eg ee eee store, and Jaid wpon a couch in the saloen apart- ment, A doctor was then sent for. © CHAPTER [V. DENVER DOLL’S DISCOVERY—THE ROAD AGENTS | ; AT HOME, DENVER may or may not have ap- ; proved of ta the Sport to Crystal Carrol’s; at any rate, she did not join the little proces- sion that bore him there. : Instead, she gave the two weapons a close ex- | amination, after which she took her way once’ more to the saloon, where she procured a drink of lemonade, and set out for the boardi house, where she had previously put up. rome one flight of stairs, she followed a Jong hail to the rear of the building, and finally entered an apartment of considerable size, where three men were seated around a table @ngaged in a social game of euchre. _ They paused and looked up, as the Detective ‘ ‘ e, tee i ‘ Ie a aa ' whose faithfu | Jay our traps for him, but you have got to lay | lose it, for J wouldn’t take de worl fo’ dat | An’ if dis yar chile kin only fas’en ese, yar | with a contemptuous shrug. There was a look of expectancy upon their | faces, as ay behdld the young woman, in | service they had been for sev- | eral years. ‘Vel, vot der news is?” Yakie asked, pushing | forward a vacant chair, with his foot. “*T think we have not lost, by coming hete again!” the girl replied, seating herself. ** Mc- Parland attacked the stage I came in on to- | night, not far from this camp. He had twenty | or more men.” **Shimminy shumpers! you don’d vas say so! Did be make much off a haul?” ** Yes: cleaned out the crowd and the treasure- | box, and took off the mail-bags.” .I reckon it all | counted up pretty ricb.. We must once more shady, in disguise. It don’t matter so much about me, as [ can look out for number one, you bet! There’s another lay-out, too, that I ardly expected to find.” **Vot—der shild?”’ “No! but tbe murderer of the child’s mother. Walt, let me see that locket onoe more?” “Lor’ yes, honey, but don’t you gone for to locket, w’at I foun’ roun’ dat infunt’s neck. bread-coaxers on de wind gauge ob de inder- widual w’at gone stole dat chile from us, dar’s g wine to be a massacre.” { ** Muchee nebber findee "Melican girlee!” Chug grunted, with a smirk that rendered his coun- | tenance ludicrous. ; “Shet up, yo’ flat-faced rat-eater!” cried Walt. “I’clar’ too goodness you’s nuff to pro- voke de spire off’m a Meffodist church, is yous! | W’at you know ’bout science, pig?” “Niggee! niggee! blackee allee samee like acee spadee!” retorted Chug, putting bis thumb | to bis nose.” ‘“* Here! here! bush this wrangling,” Doll cried, authoritatively. ‘Let me have the | locket, stove polish!” Walt scowled disdainfully, and took om | | around his neck aslender gold chain with a mag- | vificent locket attached to it, which was almost literally incrusted with diamonds, / This chdin had been found around the neck of | the child whom Walt had rescued on the moun-:| tain side, a year before—and since which time little Grace, ‘as they had named her, bad been urysteriously abducted from their keeping. | Opening the locket in two sections, three pic- tures were revealed. The middle one was a correct likeness af little | | Grace, the left side contained a lifelike picture | of the murdered Woman Walt hed seen.in the | mountains, as she bad appeared in life; while the right hand likeness was of a deshing’ young | man—singularly like the wounded sport, who | had given'his name as Yankee. “ “Yes! yes! there can be no disptting that fact,” Denver Doll murmured, ‘ Yankee and | this man are one and the same, and he should know of the child, and the crime on that wild snowy night, one year ago. By the way, when f dome ‘to think of it, that woman who keeps the cizar store is the living image of this woman in the picture, although she appears much younger. Humph! there’s a mystery about this case that needs solving, and the more you tackle it the deeper it grows. Yet. I’ve faith I can un- ravel it. Walt, let me inspect that box once more,” The box was a ntly solid, yet its light weight proclaime Poat it had a cavity within— but the question was sow to reach it without spoiling the box, for there was no lid, or visible wav of opening it. : “‘T still believe that this box contains some important secret in regard to this matter of the child,” Doll said, thoughtfully, ‘“‘and if looks to me as if if was our duty to open it, and find out what we can.” “Yaw, dot vas how vas der matter. Smash der box—but maype der vas dynamite in it,” Yakie suggested. . ' “Let her go, den, fo’ suah~but put de box under dat yar rat-wrastler!” said Walt, to whom eS an eye-sore, 2 “Melican no muchee smartee!” Chug said, / “Let Chineeman hab box—tmebbe open ‘im.” _ “T dare aay Doll remarked, sarcastically, as the box, ape hice. she ha ' é, Chug turned it over and over and examined it clmely, for several minvtes—then, taking a knife from his belt, he seraped away at the ‘. +. (- ee as a es _ ‘&~ * S ee a | box flew open. ff The plating had been done around the edges after the box was closed, thereby making it ap- pear solid, er err : “Well done!” exclaimed Doll, ‘* Youre more cute than i gave you credit for being, Chug. Let me see the box,” 4 She received it, and took .therefrom a closely folded document, covered with writing in a slightly cramped hand. 2 bey Spreading it out on the table, she read the con- tents aloud, but in a low tone, just audible to her companions, ante’ It was as follows: 5 “Sacramento, Cau., July 10th, 1878. “To Whom tt Muy Concern i— “T, Gabriel Porter, being of declining health but sound in mind, and realizing that Iam nearing the end of my earthly career do hereby make my last will and testament, for the disposal of all my property, both real and personal, with and subject to the following explanations: : “My earthly kin at the following date, so far as concerns the Jaws of inheritance, are as follows: I have one daughter living, who is married to a youn man by the name of Charles Eisler, my daughter's maiden name having been Dora Porter, m their union has sprung a child, whosé name is Ethel His- er. “Tn addition to the above, I have living a brother- in-law, named Valentine Verner, and a his child vd union with my sister, since decea whose name is Isabel. “Not having favored the childish union of my child with Kisler, I can not conscientiously make her’ my heir direct. ; ‘But, agreeable to the stipulations hereinafter | mentioned, {do make my daughter's dona aii » Tea Eisler, my sole and only heir to all my wealt and personal. without axeeption—the stip ing that said Ethel. Kisler sball be living and enjey- ~~ ing good health, and in the custody and charge of one or more of her parents, on the 20th day vember, A. D. 1880, at which period the exeoutors and administrators hereinafter appointed by me, - shall have all my pro conve mney— and put. out on itera aeauten, by bond and; mert- gage, the interest payable to the natural gua of the child for ber support, and after her majority, to be placed at her command. . ** But, providing said Ethel Eisler be not liviag, on that date by eay onueo, gil my bequest ap abowe at da m ve mentione ; shall revert to Isabel Verner, nt ex- cep’ on, IN WITNESS WHEREOF I hereunto do set m: < and seal, on the day and date first above iene **GanmE. Porter.” | Then followed the names of the gentlemen. named as executor and administrator, which . néed not be mentioned bere. . Denver Doll folded the document and returned . it to the box. ; Ag: rhe “That settles that,” she said. ‘We are on the trail at last, and a part of the mystery is solved in -the beginning. But there will be more to be encountered Setore we get through. It is plain now why Yankee and Verner are en- emies. And it is also quite interesting to knew where the child is and who, murdered ther. This man Eisler may be a consur rascel too, Then who was it shothian? Humph! theic’s a number of points left in the compass yet, pards; so get your thinkers together. id you, Walt, take tris box and paper, and see tena boos a — Tose it, Woke penalty of your life, for the will may never have been probat as the law calls it.” wD.+ eit “a ¥ When the wee sma’ hours of that night were. sro assing, and there were but few nee TK ing from the windows of the shanties of | 4 Ber, a man, enveloped in a dark cloak, . | slouch-hat_ pulled down over bis eyes, ap- proached Sullinder’s grocery from the rear and. tapped upon the back door. ois Sas After a short pause he imitated the chirp of a cricket, then the door was opened and he en- tered, closing it after him. ; At first all was es dark as the shades of , within the room, tut geacially the light of a bull’s eye lantern wes turned on at one side of the room, and revealed all objects with shagp distinctness. pigeon-holed partition across the room ning half-way up to the ceiling. Between the postal-boxes ang was a large space, however, fu stools, and a long table use‘ for. The apartment was use@ for postal purposes, * and was really a part of the ocery sore the 6 on y ren- A # . f . r iim ht Th Tr ly + 2a Lr - 7 f P'Upon the stools around this table v ere seated balf a domen men, exchusive ef the one whe had turend on tho “‘glim” Ping - fe - 4 j ato -yasre ; i beak cnt foe gl cae ’ —- i. eel x ek - of e- er mo- Bibel an ; PHBHea | EES. Sbributi ce n"% . - CUNY ef ‘ ’ a ‘ ’ 2 a ty %, magi ae Mv : A “hes'r yt ¢
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6 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. ‘ They all wore cloaks similar to that of the ‘yew comer, and also black vails over their faces. There were bottles and glasses on the table, and also a number of leteers, as yet unopened. The new: comer was a man of fine re, dressed in gray beneath bis cloak, with top-boots upon his feet, a bene tae weapon- belt found his waist, and when his slouch bat was raised, a full, attractive face, with sweeping mustache, black eyes, and hair to match, was revealed, ‘* The captain!” broke in low tones from sev- eral; and this was introductory of the famous road-rider, MoParland. ° - “Sh! Is all well?’ he demanded, in a cool, business-like tone, glaneing toward the front of be store. © “ All’s well!” one of the men replied. ‘ The shutters is up, and curtains down, hours ago. But I’m risking all by allowing the meetings here!’ McParland laughed. : ‘One can afford to oc much, when he gets a finger in fortune hauls, every few nights. Where’s the secretary?” “He hasn’t turned up. Heard he was sick.” “Bah! I don’t believe it, Still we can get along without bim. How has the inspection and reconnoissance turned out, that I ordered?’ “Excellent, captain. Wells-Fargo’s office has upward of three thousand on the next stage trip. © Good. But it must be secured from the office here, There’s a military company reported moving through the hills, in this direction—so it will be advisable to let the trail cool off for awhile. Kelly, | appoint you and Sullinder Jarvis and Morris to nidke the tap at Fargo’s. You have all things ready I believe. I will get back to the hills, and there will be another meeting here to-morrow night, after the Post- office closes.” ce CHAPTER V. THE BLACK-BEARDED MAN, THE next morning Shining Bar’s agent for . Wells-Fargo Company awoke to the most un- welcome fact that the office had been entered during the night, the safe unlocked, and all of its valuable contents taken, When the news got abroad, the camp was once more thrown intoa great state of com- motion, and citizen Markward, (who by the sey was a heavy loser by the robbery) together wit Burke, the chief of the Vigilantes, and several other influential men of Buining Per. by agree: ment called upom Denver Doll, at the Occi- dental boarding-bouse. Tuey were shown into the parlor, where they were shortly joined by the young Detective Queen, who was looking remarkably fresh and pretty after a night's rest. She had met Burke before, and by him was introduced to the other members of the party, ‘ gies which she was informed of the safe-rob- ‘y. a ‘And now we have come,” said Markward, ‘to see if we cannot enlist you to put an end to this series of depredations, and bring this _ McParland and his band to justice. We have heard that you are by profession a detective.” ‘How can you expect a weak woman to accomplish so mach, if he defies the powers of you and all your town?” she asked, soberly. “ Because we have faith in the saying that ‘one can often accomplish more than many.’ Then, again, we understand that you are liter- ally a sleuth-hound en the track of the road- agent chief.” “Perhaps I am, but I may have private reasons for this, One is not apt to spend much valuable time, unrewarded, in hunting down a desperado, unless he or she has some private object in view. I am sorry to hear of these depredations, as it places this section of the country in a feverish state of excitement, and keeps many good people away. Perhaps a re- ward would tempt some daring spirit to hunt this road-agens to bis Jair.” ‘There are several rewards offered by pri- vate parties, already.” * “Yes, and still, without meaning offense, these same parties, or at least some of them, wards,” The significance in her tone conveyed the — pretty plainly, even if the words did “ : “You mean to say that if they had to pay these offered rewards, they would not eventu- ae t be out 0 cage “Wel, at 0 a dreamed that such Worked, in cases like ~ rN ke, / be greatly assured in offering the re- | ‘*T myself have sometimes cherished an idea that McParland has associates in this town.” ‘*T have no doubt of it, and possibly might, after a study, suspicion some one, were a quiet thousand dollars to back the awe of my cap- ture of one of the ringleaders!” “That can be arran ee here among us,” Markward announced. ‘ We are all men of responsibility, and will pledge you the amount for the capture of one of the ringleaders. After that we will bargain with you further.” “Very well; it’s abargain. [ will go to work quietly, and you must do the same, so far as furnishing me any needed assistance. If I cannot accomplish anything by the 20th of No- vember, I will give it up as a bad job,” ‘* Ah! what peculiarity bas that day ?”’ “It may have several, you know—it may have none! But, so-along!” and bowing, she walked away, leaving the gentlemen to depart with a feeling that women are not always the ‘* weaker sex.” ' Yankee, after being removed to Crystal Car- rol’s after the duel, had his wound dressed, and felt .a little better, though by no means what could be called frisky. The bullet had passed not far from a vital spot, and on being extracted proved to be one of such as are used in 32-caliber sporting rifles. Crystal bustled about and waited on bim with alacrity, prepared him some stimulant, and then a piece of toast, all the time chatting in her own artless manner, until he finally zearly forgot his wound, and dropped asleep. He did not awaken until late the next morn- ing, when, on opening bis eyes, he beheld his hostess behind the counter. enga ‘ed in waiting upon a customer—a burly, black-haired and be- whiskered chap, of decidedly brigandish ap- pearance. to ; “Ah! you have had quite a sleep for a siek man,” Crystal said, smiling over at him. ‘‘ How are you feeling?” ‘* Pretty well, thanks to the efforts of my ad- mirable nurse!” Yankee replied, ‘‘I reckon I can navigate once more.” ‘Don’t try to exert yourself, please, I will get yousome breakfast in a moment. I really wouldn’t stir about for some time yet.” ‘* You seem mighty anxious to retain your atient,” the man at the bar growled, in a low, | oarse tone, but as low as were the words, } Yankee overheard them. ‘‘What’s this?” flashed through his mind. “The gent of black aspect speaks rather famil- iarly, it seems to me, for a customer.” Crystal did not. look toward the Sport, but | giving the black-beard a scowling look, went | behind the counter into the cigar room in front, | the customer following her ‘example via the | slat door. o | Then, for sevcral minutes, Yankee heard a | low and at times sullen murmur of voices, but could not distinguish what was said, though he concluded the interview was not exactly har- monious. “I wonder if that is the lover of my fair hostess?” he mused. ‘If so, she has a very poor choice, barring that he is not in disguise, which I should not be surprised if he was. Humph! strange things in this life. Although now satisfied that I am wyong, I cannot shake off the likeness of this woman to my lost Dora. I could almost love ber for the resemblance. But, no; [’ve no time to love now, except for y lest ones, and to pursue the bitter trail of engeance!” His reverie was brought to a close for a time by the entrance of Crystal, the black-bearded gent having taken his departure. ‘*Oh! have FE kept. you waiting long?’ she apologized; “‘ these rough customers are such bores, sometimes, you know. I will have you something to eat soon.” “1 am so aware, from encounters with several of the species!”’ Yankee replied. He then arose, and with an effort found that he could walk slowly about the room. **Oh! PN be all right, soon!” he declared. | “There’s a good bit of iron in the constitution of our family, and it’s pretty hard to kill ’em Oo ‘** Have you no idea who could have shot you, | sir?’ Crystal asked. _ ‘‘Not in the least, as I had noticed every face present within bullet range of the dueling- round, before the circus began. {wonder how erner the Valiant is feeling? Rather spicy, I dare say.” The breakfast of venison, and coffee was ee : his hat, ready, and Yank k of it tily, after hich he 8 pede twe yee oul an Ww ! piece into Crystal's dt . i ‘ . eg ‘ ‘ 7S, 7 “it . alee nn “There’s a partial recompense for your ser- vices to me!” he said, ‘‘ together with my heart- felt thanks, and if I can ever be of any service to you, pra do not hesitate to command me.” “Oh, sir! I could not think of accepting pay ragh oy paste afavor. Please take your money ‘*Byno means. Keep it. Sometime I might be your enemy, but never as long as you keep that !” he said, with stran gle Su ‘* How do you mean?” she asked, looking up at him, with a faint blush upen her cheeks. ‘Ob! it’s a story of a lost love and a wrecked life, which I would not like to relate, as noth- ing but pain and regret can accompany the narration. Some day, should our acquaintance continue, I may tell you.” ‘*T should like to hear it,” she said, calinly, not one expression on her face to show that what he had said had been of more than i interest to her. ‘‘I will keep the ey an shall be pleased to know you further, since I judge by your words on our first meeting that closely resemble some former acquaintance of yours. ) ‘You are the living image of one who is lost to me, I suppose, forever. But, good-day! ‘I bc» stir about, and bunt me up a boarding- place. He then took his departure, but by the time he had reached the ‘‘ Monaco” he was obliged to go in, and sit down awhile. ust as he was about to leave, Denver Doll entered, and saw and approached him. “‘T am glad to see you around so quick, but am afraid you are a little too hasty,” she said, ‘‘T trust you believe I was not instrumental in causing your wound, Mr. Eisler?” ‘‘T must believe you are not, as 1 doubt if a. thirty-two caliber bullet imbedded in a shot- n wad, could hardly have hit so correctly, as erner’s weapom was leveled at my heart. Nevertheless, it looked mightily like asif you had had a hand in it, at first.” ‘* But I didn’t! I am of the opinion that some enemy toak the chance to get in bis work on you, when there was so good an opportunity.” “Enemies, eh? I shall first have to lcok ardund and see if I have any !” “‘T can assure yeu that you have one at least —and cannot one hiré others?” ‘* You refer to Verner?” ‘6 Yes!” “ How—that is, what do you .know of his en- Saif apse me?” | by pis much as yourself, perhaps. $s apt how—what?” aera “Oh! well, if it will satisfy you, I might re- mark that it is getting close enough to the 20th of November to cause Mr, Verner some bright anticipations—or ratber bis daughter.” Yankee started, violently. ‘‘ Where did you get hold of this thing?” “Oh! accidentally, of course. Detectives are osed to know all things.” ankee did not reply. ,but sat staring at: the floor, an unnatural 1 ght gleaming from bis eyes. Denver Doll noticed it, and remarked: ° ‘‘Perheps I should not tell you, under the Foneeat circumstances, but I will. She was found hat eold November night about one year ago!”” su CHAPTER VI... A BRIGAND’S WOOING—TWO..BUMMERS ON A. BUM—YANKEE ON T PATH, YANKEE started more vio than before at this. ° “She! she!—whom do you mean? For God's | sake speak!” ‘Your wife, where you left her cold and st ‘ff in deatbh—murdered, mind you—with ber iiti}+ child freezing beside her.” ‘““What! Yow tell me this withthe insinuation that I.did the job!” he cried, fiercely. ‘‘ Have: a care how you accuse me!” “ Well, the crime has to be shouldered by some one, and we do not at present know any one else to suspect!” ee ef “ But the child! the child!” * Was brought to my camp I adopted it, It was afterward ki pacpes m me, since e to when, I have never been a d any trace of it. - ; ‘‘Ob! God! This news is worse than the sus- pense I have been bearing. for I bave been try-: ing to believe them both dead. God knows J. could never have done them any barm whom L. loved so! Did you bury my wife?” ‘““No. She was discovered by one of my men. Had ated wig 3 bien clews co rcpt , were ve ; then, our camp.. When we returned for the boty, no trace of it could be found,”
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Yankee’s face was buried in his hands, and a tremor shook his figure. Deepest grief seemed his, which, for the time being forbade speech. Finally, however, he said: ‘Tt isa blow I have undergone, which would kill any ordinary man. Still, I must brace up and take comfort in the thought of revenge. For revenge I will have on the one who broke up my home, if it is the last act of my life. Do ou know who that man was? Here! I will ll you”—and he spoke the name in a low tone. Denver Doll looked her surprise. “Will you tell me the circumstances of the case?” she asked. “No! not now. I am not sufficiently nerved to bear up under the rehearsal at present. Some other time will do. I must recover my child before the 20th of the month, or the Verners will triumph. Have you Gabriel Por- ter’s will?” “ At my command.” “It is well, for there is no verbatim copy of it, and it is not recorded—that is, I do not think itis. However, the Verners know the purport of tbe will. Now, you are in possession of so many facts of the case, I want you to help me through with it, and you can command your rice.” Denver Doll gazed at him a moment, reflec- tively, as if reading his nature, bis secrets, his pe being, before giving her answer. ‘*T take but precious little stock in men!” she said, finally, and her tone was proof that she meant what she said. ‘‘ Put’em ina bag and shake ’em up, and I'll be hanged if they won’t all come up on top like cork-float. Still, for the sake of the dear little child, to whom I became greatly attached—for her sake, I will endeavor to do all in my power for you: You must loék out sharp for yourself. If you don’t, the first you know you won’t know nothing. You have seen Miss Crystal Carrol?” ‘Yes. She bears a most striking resemblance to my lost wife.” ‘Might she not be Dora?” ‘*No, 1 fear not. She is more vivacious and poi and all I said to her in aie to my trouble did not seem to affect her in the least.” ‘Oh! well, resemblances are often encoun- tered. You keep quiet now and get well, and I will see what I can do for you. It probably will require a deal of maneuvering to work up anything from the case.” Valentine Verner had not escaped the volley of salt and pepper. His breast, neck and face were full of it, and for hours he was in most acute agony. : The evening following Denver Doll’s inter- view with Yankee, the Verners sat in their conifortable parldr, Mr. Verner being engaged in writing at the desk in one corner. Miss Isabel, a stately brunette of four-and-twenty, sat in a luxurious rocker, in front of the fire- place, her slippered feet upon the fender, and the fire-light shining upon her face. It was not emactly a handsome face, but what might be canal a coldly pretty face. Theeyes and hair were jetty black, the first essed of a power to warm up wondrously when anything pleased She was evidently a woman who could love intensely, or hate rancorously. She was engaged in knitting some piece of fancy work, and ever and anon glanced toward fer wounded parent. . + At last he laid aside his pen, with a peculiar runt, one All the papers are made out,” he said, speaking more to himself than to her. ‘ To- morrow I will sell and receive the cash for all my real estate here, ready to go back to Sacra- mento. The twentieth is growing nearer and nearer,” “And no tidings of Dora nor the child?” Isabel said, jnquiringly. ‘* None, since she left Eisler, and fled to parts unknown. Kisler is here, and for a purpose. A certain enemy of his is also in the vicinity. I fancy he suspects that this enemy has the cbild in his possession.” ; ‘«You mean McParland?” ‘“* Exactly.” re Pshaw! I do not believe it!” “ What cause have you to form any opinion on the sub: whatever, y?” 4 “Qh! mi! sa perhaps!” Teabel replied, languid- ly. “But, on the contrary, perbaps you have!” Verner retorted, sharply. “ See ssed, Isabel, you know better than to try to me. ¥ ¥ For some time past you have had a caller. I .have never before interested myself enough to ask who, trusting you were capable of looking out for yourself. But, a few nights since I saw a suspicious character in a mask and cloak leave the house, as I was NT | it. Could you accommodate me with his name?” Fire leaped into the daughter’s black eyes, ‘*T dare say I could if I chose,” she answered. **T don’t, however, consider it necessary for a arent to be too inquisitive, where his bosom riends are concerned !” Verner, with an effort, smothered an oath. ‘* What in beaven’s name "do you mean?” he demanded, leaping to his feet. ‘*T mean,” Isabel said, ‘‘ that I have a lover, or, rather, have been quietly receiving the at- tentions of a man, who professes to adore me. This man is an intimate pal of yours. Is it necessary that I should mention any names?” ‘*No! no! not at all! not at all!” the parent protested hastily. ‘But this thing mnst be a “Ha! ba!” Isabel laughed. ‘‘I am not _par- ticular. Since Yankee has come here, I am easily appeased.” ‘* Mention not that ruffian to me, in connec- tion with yourself. I'll disown you if you no- tice him!” ‘“‘Oh! well, if the subject is too spicy for you, drop it!” was the stinging retort. Just then there came a rap at the door. ‘« A caller on business; you may retire,” Ver- ner said, motioning her to a rear room. “Tt is hardly necessary!” she replied, signi- ficantly; ‘still I will obey.” And she vanished. Verner then opened the door, and admitted the visitor, who was the same black-haired and bewhiskered individual who had earlier in the day been at Crystal Carrol’s store. He nodded familiarly and took a seat. Verner also became seated. ‘* Well?” he said, manic pra ‘‘ Well!” the other replied, ‘why were you not around to see me?” ‘“‘T was sick,” the speculator growled. ‘‘ Look at me!” The man grinned: “ You are a pet for beauty now,” he said. ‘‘Why didn’t you finish the job for your antagonist?” “Tt was not I that fired the shot—that is why. , What is your errand here to-night, may I ask? “TI come on two errands, or more properly one, as both are connected. Are you prepared to be surprised?” , ‘Oh! likely I can stand the shock.” The speculator spoke with sarcasm. “You ougbt to,” the other returned. ‘To my own knowledge you are hardened enough to withstand acannon-ball, Well, to be out with it—I am in love!” Verner agg but did not reply. “Yes, I am in love!” the caller went on, “ tho’ it may appear strange. The object of my adoration—” : ‘Is locked in the next room, of her own choice, to save enduring the agony of a meetin with you,” the speculator interrupted, mali- ciously. . The man of ‘the black beard winced, then seemed to w suddenly furious. ‘‘ Valentine Verner!” be cried, sternly. “John McParland!” the other returned, coolly. The road-agent fairly trembled when his name was uttered. “Sh! curse you,” be gritted. ‘Do you not know that walls sometimes have ears? Enough of this nonsense. Let it be no secret that I love your daughter, and have decided to make her my wife. ou, as a matter of course, will consent, and that will settle the whole business, without any parley.” “ As’a matter of course you are a confirmed idiot to think of such a thing. My daughter marry you—you, an outlaw, a road-agent and rascal. Ha! ha! ha!” “Ha! ba! if youlike. True, I am an outlaw in the eyes of the public—a man given to the delectable practice of stopping stages and re- lieving plethoric purses; bat, John McParland, no matter what else he may be in the eyes of the world, is a man, every inch of him, and never goes back on a friend in need. You are no better than I, for you are one of the chisels of which I am the mallet. Your daughter I adore, and have sworn to have her.” “ And I swear you shall not, She is already ps oo the man of her choice—the same iwdu: | who salivated me with salt and Phe ‘scheming specnlator watched closely Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. ~ * / y ERs eS ares a ee ee cc 8 er ee nine for some visible effect of this speech, but saw none, : McParland was not nibbling at such bait, — speak, He calmly lit a cigar, and then said: ‘You speak hastily, without considering the man youare wgrteen nor your own interests. My reputation ought to assure you that I am the wrong kind of a customer to trifle with. Rosides, the 20th of November is but a few days 0 Verner leaped to his feet with a cry. “As I suspected. You have the child!” he vociferated. McParland tipped back in his chair with a grim smil ‘ ie, a “Well! Ishould cough up a cat if I haven’t!” he responded. “ It’s a cold frosty morn when I get left, as a general thing.” ; “And you p to use this child as a arp of forcing a marriage with my daugh- is . ‘* Perhaps!” > ** What, if I refuse?’ : ‘That matters not. She is her own master.” ‘** But she will refuse.” : ‘Let her. The child is salable.” “Curse you! What do you want?” “T)l tell you: First of all, I want all your wealth, and your daughter as my wife, The child will then never come to light. When your daughter comes into her fortune, she will take care of you, and all will goas merry asa marriage bell.” *“ Wouldn't that be nice, though? But Iam notin the game, Parents poor, who depend on rich daughters, never cultivate the gout.” McParland arose, and carefully readjusted his disguise. ‘* Well, I'll give you a chance to consider,” he remarked. ‘‘It’s plain to me whom I shall sell the kid to, if I can’t earn a wife out of the bar- gain. : 4 And with these words he abruptly left the ouse. He had planted a seed that he was satisfied would grow. * : As soon as he had gone, Verner arose, and suddenly opened the door of the adjoining | room, to find, as he had expected, Isabel just Soy from a crouching position, where she had beep ae se Seueilieeale — is eyes fair a with ra be raised bis foot asit tempted to tick bee, : “So you have been playing eavesdropper, eh?” he hissed, savagely. > ie “Tam sure | might listen to the voice of my lover!” sbe retorted. " Es ‘‘Curse your l. ver!” he roared, by coming to his terms you can win. We shall see. Lam your parent—your friend, If you leave me, I’ll put you in a way for a coffin, be- fore you see a cent of the Porter inheritance!” And foaming with rage, he turned and quit-— ted the house, slamming the door after him. “You think — Isabel stood in the center of the cher figure drawn to its fullest hight, her face white, : her eyes warmed up with an unnatural fire, “‘T’am to be the chooser eh?’ came from be- tween her teeth, in a sibilant whisper—“ it’s father or husband, eh? Well! I will conside but I rather think the coffin is not made th: will hold me, why should I play to lose?” “* Ther dile he swallered a He soenaed a ham; 0 sf Thengotgucked in tp «-Mahcher Smmetd nen. a Natchez wh ek One cold stormy morning.” _ oe “Owl omelets an’ fricasseed frogs, thet’s no sarcumstance, pilgrim! Reporter Sid ye say? Lor’ bless ye—I kin squat down on ther bulge eend uv a bullwhip, an’ tell ye ernuff in a min- nit, ter confuse ye fera year! Pap ismy name —Old Mount, thet war ther identercal galoot who threwd ther salt on ther tail o’ ther *Merican Eagle, an’ roped her in, when it war soarin’ over Pike’s Peak. Geographical grass- hoppers of Gander’s Gulch, Jonesy—I’m a snorter, I am—a reg’lar amalgamated double- action, steel-hardened, fine-toothed terror from — Taos, Why, man alive} I’ve a pedigree longer than ther tail uv ther longest comet that ever soared thru ther firmament!” ‘But, my dear sir, ones * me to get ina single word. Iam Jones—Chawles Pygmalior Jones of the Cavortin’ Cyclone co’ Cheyenne. I come in quest of items—items, sir.—not vernac- ular phrases. Do you know of anys tid-bits, as it war—has any wife broke his nose or vice versa? have any - calves been born in the nei eyed b. ~<—oh _ If 1 have to play for the game, oe goslings had spaniel awed Y ove talked us
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&. about his neighbor, or committed suicide by swailerin’ left-handed shot-guns, three-legged dictionaries, or the like? Sir, in the name of the Cavortin’ Cyclone, I command you to im- part to me the news, or I shall mutilate you. I am a bad man when my mercury is aroused. I carry darning needles in my socks, and » electric fluid’ in my mind. Lam atall times armed with a tooth-pick, a pop-gun «nd an almanac, and the largest musketo in the country I bad the honor of slaughtering. , _ Jones am I—C, Pygmalion Jones! Hast never ; heard it?#~’tis a famous name!” Pretty well lubricated with whisky, better known in Shining Bar as “‘life-preserver,” and “sweet by-and-by,” those two characteristic erfblems of indigenous humanity, Jones and Mount, had entered the Monaco, arm in arm, and waltzed toward the bar, bebind which the roseate poison-compounder, Emily, presided with austere grace, his infantile apology of a mustache waxed out to a point. “ Ahem! gud mornin’! Pap said, stroking his pearl, ont glancing at the array of bottles on e “Ahem! that is—Mr. Barkeeper, P’ll make e ‘quaint’ wi’ ther reporter o’ ther Cavortin’ tb ae 0’ Shian, and we are werry dry—thbat is, cussed dry. MHeer’s to us young fellers! so set forth ther bottle o’ ‘ by-an’-by,’ and wo will indulge in a little expression o’ good humor— b eock-eyed crockodiles an’ orphan perarie dorgs, est The darling dispenser gazed at his two would- be customers with stupendous hauteur, and rap- ped upon the counter with his knuckles, as much as to say, ‘‘ Come down!” had elt in his pockets, looked at Jones and ed, ’ oyes felt in bis pocket, looked at Pap and sighed; then both sighed in chorus, and arm-in+ : “arm walked away out of ear-shot. * Ring-tailed raccoons and hydraulit hedge- hogs! no trust!” Pap softly breathed. ** What shall we do?” breathed back Charles Pygmalion, in piteous accents. “Doth I not : have one little drink I shall wilt and fade.” Pap looked wearily over the audience in the room. So many times had he worked upon their feelings that he knew it would be simply rash to try it again. ; At last, unable to longer stand the misery, Jones Once more approached the bar. ‘* Kind sir, remembering that I represent that great and glorious sheet know as the Cavortin’ cyclone of Cheyenne, can I not induce you to a ow me to lick the outside of an empty bottle Rise tos with my parched tongue?” } “Git eout, or Pll shoot!” the Apollo of the next bar declayed. - Jones turned and went away. Wek “Wait,” he whispered to Pap: “I will be i back after I swallow a couple of rivers.” aie y “Nol no! great horned ace of Taos, I’ve an 4 ijeer. y SP ie Both left*the saloon. bat Outside Pap took an empty flask from his _ pocket and filled it with water. hie ‘‘ Now I’m jest gojn’ ter play magic, like when hy er double jinted incantation | transformed ther mouth uv a Chinaman inter an eight-day canal. When I git ther galoot ter, chase m yeou slip behind ther bar an’ grab all ye kin bax. carry an’ run, We'll divvy outside.” Tae Into the Monaco went the festive pair, and ik up to the bar. .: Pap held up his empty hands and made sev- eral queer motions, when like a flash a bottle, apparently filled with liquor, appeared in his - grasp. by . Believing it one of his own flasks, and seeing rw Pap turn and run, the bar-keeper uttered a + howl] of rage, leaped dver the chase. i Pye ee ye ag: in one direction, i a alion Jones leaped over in the opposite, 4 gad instead of landing upon the floor went . through an open trap door rub-a-dub-dub-dub ; down a pair of stairs into the cellar. la Fearing to go above again, he looked about i for some place of concealment..- is ih ying what he supposed was an empty bar- Rest? rel, he leaped into it and—-went down, down, a down into utter darkness—down into the dis- ~d Yas es of a mine, far into the depths of the earth! r and gave ; es, Hab out and weak by the time night 38 arrived, Yankee bad retired early to his room Raye, in the b -house. aie It was a rather small apartment, at the rear La oR aaa dh btaminctak ated goin hee. ics @ narrow bed, a a chair. rt. One wiadow, without a c , shutters or | i | ‘ Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. ' fastenings, looked out into the rear yard, from which any one could easily ascend to and raise the sash. “Not a very savory berth for a man who don’t know when he is liable to get popped over,” he muttered, looking out of the window “Jf I am not greatly mistaken, 1 shall have visitors to-night—at least I have a kind of fore- _boding to that effect. So 1 will take care not to be caught napping.” Together with his coat and some other clothes he manufactured a dummy and covered it over in bed so as to represent a man sleeping, there; then he crept under the bed, where he could not be seen, and, armed with his revolvers, waited. It was a long wait, but his. patience was not easily tired. A clock in another part of the houss struck one, and all seemed quiet in the vicinity. ‘it won’t be long now, I fancy,” he mut- tered. “I am confident of an attack, but it may not come from the direction I anticipate. We will wait and see what ‘is what.” Still another hour passed, and then he heard footsteps in the ball outside, followed by a cau- tious tap on the door. At first he was tempted to open it, but the vision of a pair of revolvers staring him in the face caused him to desist, and to lie perfectly quiet, After a moment the same cautious tap, tap was repeated; then folbwed a silence of nearly half an hour, “That was only a ruse to see if I was awake,” he coneluded. ‘I can reasonably look out for a visit from the window now.” - From. where he lay under the bed he had an unobstructed view of the window, without being in danger of being seen himself, . He was right about the attack in that direc- tion. It was not long ere he heard a noise on the outside of the house, as if a ladder were being placed against it, Then came another silence. The nocturnal visitor was evidently going it cautiously. ; : At last the head and shoulders of a person was discernible outside the window. It was a man, whose face was masked and whose head wore a broad-brim hat, Cautiously he raised the window, and then silently crept into the room. Yankee perceived that be clutched a murder- ouslooking knife in his hand. ‘‘Humphkif he murders the dummy without discovering the joke, I’ll follow him, see where he goes to, and who he is,” he muttered, ith bated breath the would-be murderer approached the bedside—then came three quick, heavy blows, and the assassin retreated toward the window. , ‘Hal ha! he’ll never interfere with any of my plans again, I'll warrant!” the Sport heard him say as be clambered out and down the ladder. rou From under the bed then came the Sport, and he was out and down the ladder but a few minutes after the assassin, who was making gh eg for the outskirts of the camp, up the ch. ' Like a sleuth-hound Yankee followed him, taking care to keep as much out of sight as pos- sible. Then, too, he was in his stocking feet, and his footsteps were scarcely audible. For perhaps ten minutes this flight and pur- suit continued, when the Sport saw the assassin enter a clump of chaparral. a Cautiously approaching it. he beard human voices, and soon saw two figures standing ina little opening into which the moonlight streamed. One was the masked man—the other was none other than the cigar store beauty, Crystal Carrol! , ‘* Well, are you here at last?” the masked man demanded, in a tone that was anything but ety gn #8 i ia teal *““As you see,” Crystal replied, spiritedly. “Pray where have you been?’ ‘* Looking after you.” “Well, you will know where to find me after this. There shall be no more clandestine meet- ings. I have about come to the conclusion, Ralph, that you had better pay your attentions to some one else, as I do not think I care par- ticularly for you.” “You don’t, eh?’ His tone was savage. “You've changed your national choice to a Yankee, have vou?” ‘ ‘*Possibly. He is at least a gentleman.” “Undoubtedly, I hear from Miss Verner tbat he once had a wife, who was the image of you, whom he beat, and who was otherwise abused by bim, until, to save the life of herself and her ite Sar ; = Se rn es 4" > + y ger ha es a eh OE et child, she fled. This is the rove you would me for, is'it—me, a titled nobleman” “Tf hardly believe you are what you claim, Ralph. Besides, I have great faith that Mr. Yankee is alla woman could desire.” ‘* Well, then know, Miss Crystal Carrol, that Yankee, as you call him, has been murdered i his bed. I just heard so as I came from town!” ‘* You lie!” It was Yankee who said this, as he sprurg | from covert, revolvers in hand! ‘CHAPTER VII. CONSPIRACY—DENVER DOLL ON THE REPORTER IN A BAD BOX, Hap a thunderbolt fallen at the feet of Crys tal and her lover neither could, have been more surprised than at the sudden appearance of | Yankee, the Sport, who made his introductory bow upon that dramatic scene, coatless, hatless and bootless., ; A ** You lie!” Yankee cried again, leveling his revolvers upon the masked man. ‘‘ You did not murder me, my fine fellow, as you supposed; but, instead, you stabbed a dummy I had pre- pared for you in bed!” Crystal screamed. “Did this man try to murder you?” she de- manded, shrinking toward Yankee. ‘* As you bave heard. He entered my room, but got his work in on my coat and some bed- clothes, while I was under the bed. Who are you, my noble desperado? What is your name, I say?” The man stood in grim silence. He would not answer, but was evidently looking for a chance to escape. ' . . Yankee comprehended his motive, and nodded his head with a grim smile, “Just you try it!” he said. ‘‘Pll fix you over into a perforated plaster if you do, Miss Carrol, who i: this man?” “*Oh, please do not harm bim!” 4 oe is not answering my question.” ** No—but—but please do not hurt him. His —_— is Sir Ralph Raphael, a gentleman from urope. ‘Bah! Sir Ralph fiddle-sticks! Has he been stuffing your head up with this? I can tell you who he is, without seeing hisface. He is Jobn McParland, the road-agent!” " Crystal gasped. Her lover gave vent to a fearful oath. ‘Tis false!” he gritted, trying to sneak his hand toward bis belt. “Tis true!” Yankee cried. THE TRAIL— * Remember my caution! I have met you at last, and before we part we shall have a settlement. here is my wife and child, John McParland? Speak before I murder you!” Fiercely spoke the handsome Snort. and it was evident that he. meant, with intense earn- estness, every word he said, for bis eyes blazed with a fierce fire, bis face was pale and set, his form erect and threatening in attitude, yMeParland evidently saw that there was no use for him to resist—just at present, anyhow— for he removed his mask with a growl, and his darkly-handsome face was exposed to view iu the moonlight. ‘How should I know about your wife?” be growled, twisting his mustache. ‘I am not a stock-jobber in other men’s wives.” ‘You know where you murdered ber, you - accursed hound! Tell me, then, where she is buried?’ “T know not where you will find her, if so be it that she isdead. 1 did not kill her.” Click! One of Yankeoe’s weapons came to full cock in an instant. 7 ““Chaw back that lie! One—two—” ‘*Let up!” McParland interrupted. ‘‘ Rather than get split on a bullet I'll acknqwledge any- thing. I did not kill your wife, but know the man that struck the blow. She was wander- ing, half demented, through the mountains, I knew this person was on ber trail, and I set out to baffle his purpose. I failed. I came her body, but the child was gone. I bore tho body to a cavern, and then laid it away, where no wild beasts could getatit. Some timeafter- ward I recovered the child, and have if still in my jon. I am a bad man, Yankee Eis- ler, but I never killed the woman you won from me for your wife—nor any other woman, Lam not a woman-slayer.” The Sport listened with uuvarying expres-; sion of countenance. “If you did not kill her who did?” he de- , sternly. “Valentine Verner!” McParland replied, with a strange chuckle, . on | ee O_o oI II5II9ISI0I0IS5ISIiIx9I0II I Ii Is ~ ew os
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-— a eee, - ne ee * Bat did you capture the child from Verner?” “ @ertainly; and he has since offered to tive me his daughter in exchange for the child.” ‘¢ You are a chronic liar!” Yankee retorted, fen . ** Whoever secured the child, secured it from the camp of Denver Doll and her detectives. That shows conclusively that Verner did not have her, which he likely would, if he bad mur- dered my wife. So, further denial of the crime is utterly useless, ou swore to break up my lnappy home, and you succeeded. You swore yo would be revenged upon me through tbose held dearest, and you did so, John McPar- land, I have made up my mind to kill you. So say your prayers, if you-desire, as you shall have but five minutes’ respite!” McParland laughed recklessly. “Any harm that comes to me effectuall settles the fate of Ethel Kisler!” he chuckled, ‘villainously. ‘‘ When I die, those who hold the child in their power have pledged themselves to kill the child!” ‘Say what you like, I have sworn to have revenge, and I will not be balked. You have two more minutes. On your knees and pray, you dog. One!” McParland. stood immovable,» defiance ex- pressed upon hiseface, and in his gleaming eyes, Near to Yankee stood Crystal Carroll, white with terror, and trembling at what seemed im- pending —death to the mountain road-rider. ‘* Two !” Yankee said, sternly. There was no pity in his cone—be was as relentless as ever fate coula be. Still with bulldog defiance stood the road- agent, not a tremor of fear seeming to affect him, although death stared him in the face. Yankee’s keen eye noticed this, and a feeling of admiration ownepied into his heart. More than one man had the Californian seen face death, but none with so much assurance as pos- sessed by this McParland. An angel in the shape of thought said: ‘‘ Why kill this man? When you see one so brave and deflant, he might be worked to some good.” But quick the answering thought came: “You have been bitterly wronged by this man, and he would kill you now, if he could, Let him not escape!” The Sport’s pistol-hand raised a trifle higher, and his lips were about to move to speak the fatal ‘‘ three,” With a cry Crystal Carrol sprung forward and tbrew her arms about Yankee, thus knock- ing aside his aim; **Ob! don’t burt him, Yankee Hisler—for my sake don’t flre—for the sake of me, who loves zoe) Oh! pray don’t shoot!” she screamed, ntically, and she clung to him so persistentfy that he could not use his pistol-arm. McParland was not the man to stand on cere- moay, when he saw an advantage to improve, and seeing that Yankee was momentarily pow- erless to act, he turned and ran like a deer. : Before Bisler could disengage herself, the King of the Road was at a safe distance from sight or hearing. ankee finall ut Miss Carroll off, and stood with a ba expression gazing in the direction the outlaw had gone, rae he turned his gleaming eyes upon Crys- tal! ‘You have succeeded well in freeing the man whose life it is my aim to take. Perhaps your lover can thank you for it—I can not!” he said, bitterly. ‘“‘T am not so fortunate as to have a lover, and what I did was simply to save you from doing murderf’ she replied, calmly. ‘Come! go back to Shining Bar, and thank me that your hand is not stained with human blood.” He uttered a sort of hollow, unearthly laugh at her earnestness. i ‘‘ Maybe you are right,” he said. ‘‘ We will zo back before we are discovered. I feel some- what exhausted!” . She took his arm, and as they walked leisurely back toward the town she found that he bad spoken the truth. He was really weaker than he would admit, and it was only his nerve- power that kept him up until he reached the poarding-house, where, after bidding Crystal good-by, he slowly ascended the ladder to his room. And hehad no sooner gained his bed than his senses took leave of him. ’Twere necessary that a couple of days of comparative quiet should ensue, in Shining Bar, in order to give the excitable inhabitants thexeof time to wear off the effects of the sev- eral stirring events that had occurred. The miners settled down to work, the gam- lelers plied their voeation with less profit and 9 than before. Denver Doll was occasionally: seen about town, but her actions were not such as to arouse suspicion that she was in any way trying her hand at her business, Yankee had got out again, and Valentine Verner was seen on the street and about the mines, which he now only controlled as man- ager, having sold out his interests, But even when in lack of a stirring sensation, Shining Bar was destined to have something to attract attention and comment, This something was embodied in the person of a Mile. Zoe, who had arrived on the stage, bag- gage and all, and had hired a marquee put up on a vacant space near the Monaco, and then hung out a banner, bearing the following: MLLE. ZOE, FORTUNE TELLER AND SECOND SIGHT SEER. The Past, Present und Fiture Revealed, or Money Refunded. Here, was a novelty that Shining Bar had never had ‘cause to wonder at before, and naturally a ripple of curiosity was aroused, though many were suspicious of a person who had the power todo what the mademoiselle pro- fessed to do. What the mademoiselle looked like no one knew, because she dressed in ag pp black, and her face was ever hidden back of a heavy vail. She was seldom seen on the street, except go- ing to and from her boarding-house to the marquee. A couple of miners had ventured their half: eagle for an interview, and came out telling of the wonderful things Mile. Zoe had done, in the way of imparting information of the past, present and future. Yankee stood uyion the steps of the Monaco, the third evening after McParland’s escape, gaging at the marquee, when Denver Doll, whom he had not spoken with for two days, came sauntering up. ‘Well, are you going to get told?’ she laughed, anticipating his thoughts. ‘“‘T any not certain but what I may,” he re- ‘‘ Have you made any good moves?” Have not seen much of a chance, Have discovered now and then a point. Your friend Verner is a great rogue. Then, too, I’ve a little epistle from MeP, which advises me to get up and dust, or he will make it interesting for me.” ‘You will take his advice, I presume?” “Hardly. I’ve anotion, however, that he is going to make trouble in Shining Bar, before he is captured. In just what shape it will come I donot know, There’s going to be a little meet- ing to-night, however, which I must attend, so you will have to excuse me.” She walked away, leaving Yankee gazing after her, admiringly. ' “JT fancy I could like her, were I not more in- terested in finding my child,” he muttered. ‘¢ Yet the face of that cigar girl recalls my lost bride too vividly for me to think of loving an- other. . ’ve a mind—” He walked slowly over toward the marquee, and pulling aside the curtain, entered, half angry at himself for doing so. ithin was but little that was attractive, A sort of raised platform or dais had been ar- ranged, and covered by acarpet. Its Sole fur- niture was a chair, upon which sat the black- clad figure of a woman, whose face was deeply vailed, and hands gloved. re She bowed as Yankee entered and approached er. ‘* What will ze gentleman have—hbis fortune our fortune told, or ze past, present and ze future revealed to him?’ A myn n in a clear, winning tone, ‘Tf: you’ll drop off the French and talk U. S. 7! have you attempt to explain my af- f ankee replied, in a bluff but good-na- tured way. ‘‘T can talk pure American,” Mile, Zoe said, sweetly. ‘Ll think I can tell you much that will ceria you. You wish to know of the past “* Yes—you might as well grind out the whole grist, since it costs the same!” the Sport ‘replied | (Well, you are a Californian?” ~ ‘You could have easily learned that.” ‘I do not depend except on myself for infor- mation. You have for some years led a wild Loa ager being oneof your passions. You loved one girl—were beloved by two, but wedded the one of your choice, who also had another loyer, to whom she was not entirely indifferent. Well, after marriage, you failed the main street presented a scene of less bustle Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. ey to break from your old habit of gambling, and in cousequence you and your wife failed to agree, and you grew jealous because she chatted now and then with her old lover, your rival. Things went along until, in a fit of jealousy, ou left home. When you returned, repentant, t was too late, Your wife had also gone, taking her child with her!” *‘ By heaven, you are right!” Yankee cried, excitedly. ‘‘It was I who was to blame for al. But, woman, who are you who know so much of my history? Speak, for I will know!” And he took a step forward, authoritatively. But a revolver gleaming in ber hand, caused him to pause. “TI am Zoe, the fortune-teller; you came here to pay me for information, and I trust act like a gentleman,” she said, quietly. “ Shall I proceed?’ ‘Go ahead,” Yankee responded, wincing. “TI will listen.” ‘* Well, to resume, this wife and child wan- dered into the mountains, and were pursued, and the wife was murdered by McParland, the rival lover. The child was rescued, byt after- ward retaken, and is now in McParland’s wer) ; ‘You are an expert at your business,” Yankee said, with sarcasm. ‘‘ You are well versed in the case, but I already have learned all that your revelation discloses. . Can’t you give me something new?’ ‘*T have not done, yet,” Zoe replied, unruffied at his taunt. ‘‘ Your present is one of great importance—more than was the past. A fortune is pending on your child, You want her—so do others, and each is ready to pay for her, and your enemy has the advantage by being on in- timate terms with the child’s captor. So that, although you may employ detectives, it is likely the 20th of November will pe without your seeing anything of your child—then, nor thereafter—unless you go at the matter in a dif- ferent way. There is but one person who can get possession of Ethel Eisler, on short notice, and that person is myself!” Yankee whistled. “I thought you were working around to something of the kind!” he said. ‘‘ You mounte- banks are all wise frauds—no one will doubt that.” ‘* Nevertheless, I will wager all my money that I can produce the child within a certain number of bours. My price is your hand in murriage. Ycu are handsome, and I am by no means a fright. We would make an excellent worldly team, I fancy,” ‘*Undoubtedly! But, child or no child, for- tune or no fortune, [ am not in the matrimonial mene: “e ! Well, you have not had time to con- sider, et. After-thought may bring a change. Possibly I shall possess the child, and if I can do nothing better, can sell it to Verner. He is, I understand, very anxious to possess her, so that he can put it out of the way. My pro- fessicnal charges are five dollars.” ‘*Dirt cheap!” Yankee said, as he tossed her a gold piece, and strode from the tent, ‘Another schemer who has spotted the case, and’ is trying to make a stake!” he muttered, going toward the Post-office. “I'd give a deal to know who she is.” ‘ In passing Crystal Carrol’s he dropped in, but a mulatto boy was tending to businéss, and the pretty proprietress was nowhere to be seen. When the stage came rolling down into the town, it carried, for a wonder, but one m- i weazened, pinched-up little specimen of umanity, some fifty years of age, whose nose was of a ripe cherry color, and whose head was as bald asa full moon. The hooked cherry nose graced his visage, just above a large tobacco- stained mouth; bis beard was of a week's growth, and the most striking sign of intelli- gence about him was a pair of little peering black eyes, sunken under a pair of shaggy over- hanging eyebrows. In them was ressed a wily cunning, that belonged to one of his na- ure, This individual, who on the journey had voluntarily introduced himself to Mickey Pryor as Monroe Miller, was greeted as soon as he left the stage, by Verner, with a hearty hand-shake, and the two walked away together toward the Monaco. The eyes of Denver Doll, who was at the Post- office at the time, took in the matter, and a faint smile curved her pretty mouth. ‘There is to be a meeting to-night, and that man with a tinted nose will participate " she mused. ‘If I don’t learn what this m ig about, I hope I may never see daylight.”
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) _ times on the back door and give the chirp of a ae: She watched Verner and his chum enter the Monaco; then she stepped briskly across the gulch to the boarding-house, and made her way to her room. In fifteen minutes she emerged from the room transformed into a rough-shod miner—and one of the hardest looking specimens ofthe miner’s fraternity that one would be likely to meet in a long time. rtain it was that her most intimate friend would not have reeognized her in her disguise, for she was the ideal of a forsaken pilgrim, wees ¥ claim had failed to pan out a penny- weight. Leaving a note under the door of the room occupied by her three comrades, she left the boarding-house, and made for the Monaco, where she presented herself at the bar, and or- dered whisky. “‘Where’s yer rbino?” the astute Emily de- manded, eying her with a vinegar look that bad acidity enough to rust the hoops off from a e ** Put her on ther slate!” was thereply. ‘I’m Glycerine George, frum Poverty Claim, dead bu’sted, by thunder!” ‘Then go make a raise!” was the advice. “ Plenty o’ suckers layin’ ’round loose,” Glycerine George turned away witha sigh | Near by stood Old Pap, looking nearly as for- lorn as the delegate from Poverty Claim. “See hyar, pilgrim, don’t despair,” he said, mournfully. ‘* Don’t despair, fer thar’s a silver linin’ ter every cloud they say. I haven't smiled fer a month—think o’ that. My pard he tried to make a raise, bat ther last [ see’d o’ him war his heel’s vanishin’ over that air dis- peusin’ counter. ** Bt’s hard ter be broke, an go wi'out ile, But et's hopeful o’ change, when we rope in our pile , ’ Whether this logic affected the party from Poverty Claim, or not, is hard to say, but ‘he | zigzagge! his way into a corner, immediately | in the rear of where Verner and Miller were seated, and fell in a heap, as if “all seas over?” | “ Who is the galoot?’ Miller cried, in an un- | dertone, \ “Bah! Some drunken tough, dead drank | and dead broke, I reckon,” Verner said, care- lessly. ‘* You say we can depend on half of the | men at the camp, certain?” “Yes, I have given the matter a careful | canvas, and there’s fully that mavy ready for | mutiny. Two months have passed without a divy being declared, an’ the boys are kind o’ skeered.” ““ What of?” ‘Well, there’s a heap of Uncle Sim’s men in | the vicinity, which makes the situation look | unpromisi gi, in itself. Then, Mac has held off | about the divy so long that some have an idea | | } he intends turnin’ traitor for sake o’ savin’ bis | own skin.” ‘‘T wouldn’t be surprised. I’ve no confidence in him, or I probably shouldn’t have proposed the forthcoming movement. But, let us adjourn until the midnight meeting. I have notified all the safe men to be present.” Ss —— Describe the place of meeting, | hi rj be there on time, without fail,” Mil- “The rear room of the Post-office. Tap three Are you off?” ‘ Yes, to supper.” As soon as she deemed it safe, Denver Doll, in her disguise, arose and staggered out of the aie and was soon in her room at the board- house, where she exchanged disguises, and ith ts, clothing and wigs soon transformed herself into a black-haired oar Ae as per- a olay a sweeping mustache and dusky com- | -plexion. : Qace she had been a passenger in a stage that had been attacked by McParland’s men, and among them she had seen a man whom her present make-up almost exactly resembled. Throwing herself on the bed, she took a short | nap and awoke a few minutes before twelve. | Then, ing to the condition of her revolvers, | she left the building and took a circuitous route | to the rear of the Post-alfice, in which vicinity | she seereted herself and waited, { It was not long ere Valentine Verner put in a0 appearance, and was admitted to the rear of the Post-office on giving three taps upon door and the chirp of a cricket. He was unmasked. . Soon another man eame and was admitted, Denver Doll, the Detective Qu | go on with the wegen, | town of most of the and so, one after another, until over a dozen had been admitted. Last of all came the red-nosed delegate whom Verner had met at the stage, and was admitted after giving the signal. ““Now for it!” Doll muttered, leaving her place of concealment. “I’m going into that | room if I bu’st a suspender. If I get fired, I know a few p’ints, anyhow.” Seeing that her weapons were in readiness, she advanced to the door and gave the signal. Without delay the door was opened and she fla into the room, closing the door behind er. All eyes were turned upon her, and Valentine Verner leaped hastily from his chair—for all were seated about the table. “ Hello! who the devil are you?” he cried. “Stop!” Miller interposed, arising; ‘it’s Steward, one of McParland’s men. What brings you here, Steward?” ‘“‘T was sent by the boys, to tell you to go cautious, as they're rather suspicious that the captain smells a rat!” Doll replied, without hesitation. ‘Let him suspect! I ordered the boys to spot him if he showed bad signs during my absence, and ’twas not necessary to send you. However, now that you are here, | seated, and we will ‘*Ig this man reliable?’ Verner demanded, anxiously. ‘‘1’d stake my life on him!” Miller declared. ‘Steward was one of the first to advocate a mutiny. Go‘ahead, Mr. Verner. You have the floor for the evening.” Denver Doll could scarcely repress a sigh of relief at the favorable turn matters had taken. She had half expected a row, but thanks to —neipnd she had at present no danger to appre- end, ~ ‘Well, if I am to address this meeting,” Veruer said, ‘‘ I request the undivided attention of all present—especially that of Messrs. Sul- | linder, Markward, Kelly, Arty, Mount Hayes and Jarvis. Gentlemen, an important project is before us for consideration, which, if adopted, will undeniably put money equally in all of our pockets. You all well kdow that Shining Bar’s mineral resources are not fully developed, and that there are bright promises for the future. Moreover, a hundred vigilant, well-trained men could defend this place against thé attack of a small army. The way matters stand now a few of you are in goodly circumstances, while | others are barely making a living. Under a change, every man would share equally in the profits of the mines. Now, in order to work this satisfactorily, it is necessary to rid the resent inhabitants, and then we have things all our own way, and ad- mit no more residents éxcept by popular vote on the subject.” ** But how do you propose to do this? I’m not interested in murder!” said Tom Markward, ‘“‘No murder is necessary. There is half of McParland’s band—all good reliable men—who wish to join the movement, and more to be heard from. If the present party joins, that will swell our numbers well toward a hundred, which shall be the limit. We will meet, organ- ize, form our rules and regulations, and then I | can arrange the evacuation of Shining Bar, at short notice.” “How?” : “Simple as ABC. Send a man in here with | posters, stating that a monstrous lead has been struck at some distant place, and thousands of | men are wanted, and rich claims are to be sold! | What will be the result? There will be a stam- | pede that will'nearly clear the town in twenty- four hours, Then we will sail in, and take pos- | session. Those who take no part in the stampede will be forced to leave, except where we find a reliable party, whom we think best to keep with us. Hdéw like you the scheme, gentlemen? It is a gigantic one, but there’s money in it!” There was a grim silence, for some minutes; then Verner spoke again: ‘*Come! speak out! Allin favor of the mo- tion make manifest by saying I!” Every voice responded in the affirmative. “Tt is well. Mr. Miller and { will superin- tend the details of this affair, and we will have a meeting here again, to-morrow night, to per- fect arrangements. For this evening, the meet- ing is dismissed. Go singly, as you came.” “ Now for it!” thought Denver Doll. ‘I must get rid of the -nosed individual, as I do not care to visit McParland’s ranch to-night, in this disguise.” = Being nearest the doer, she arose, and started to take the first leave; but the voice of Miller checked him. oi 7 . ee i LY “Hold up, Steward! Wait tillI go. I want to see you a moment.” : To disobey would have been to give the whole business away, besides risking a shot in the back ; so Doll had nothing else to do but await the trai- tor’s motion. One by one the men left the room, Miller finally joining in the movement, and motion- ing Doll to follow, which she did, her every sense on the alert. When they were some distance from the Post- office, Miller turned upon her. ‘‘T am going back to the rendezvous,” he said, ‘‘and I want you to lay shady, in this vicinity until I return. I may need you, you see, when I come back.” “Very well. I will be in the neighborhood,” Doll replied, and she was not sorry to get out of the pornpe so easily, for she had half-ex- pected that he would accuse her of being some one else than Steward. So Miller turned away toward the route to the mountain rendezvous, and after awaitin till she was convinced that he was gone, Do took her way back to the boarding-house, well satisfied as to the results of her evening’s ad- venture. . Let us devote a few minutes to looking after the man of reportorial proclivities, Charles Pygmalion Jones, whom we left tumbling down the shaft-way of an unworked mine. So rapid was his descent that he had no time to think of anything, the suction of air nearly taking his breath away. After a fall of some fifty feet he landed, but luckily in a pool of water some three feet deep, which broke the force of his fgll. He spluttered for some’ seconds, ere he could get his breath. Groping about, he soon came in-contact with the rocky wall. Having a metal box of matches he speedily succeeded in striking one of the netert, and, aided by the light, peered around im. From the bottom of the shaft a passage branched off. The bottom was rough and cov- ered with water. Looking above him, poor Jones saw «& black, uninviting hole, through which he had fallen. He could not: get out of his dilemma in that di- rection, so nothing remained for him but to ex- plore the passage, Possibly there might be an opening somewhere else, by which he could ¢s- cape. Ee started off, keeping one of the passage walls for guidance. At the end of an hour he found himself out of the water, and lit anather match to ascertain what was the cause. He discovered that the passage now had the shape of a tunnel, and as- cended gradually in its course. This satisfied him that he was in what is known in mining rlance as a ‘‘ drift,” and that by following it e would eventually come into the outside world. So he hurried on with renewed courage, and dh not long ere he gained the mouth of ‘the drift. Here his surprise increased. He had expected to find himself still in Ship- ing Bar, and was not. The mouth of the drift was in a tangled thicket, half a mile, nearly, up the gulch, from the outskirts of the town, The drift had been thus made to follow a vein of ore, which had given out directly in under the Monaco, from whence a shaft had been sunk. Jones was a stranger to the surroundings of Shining Bar, and he was so turned around that for the life of him he could not tell which course he should take to reach the town. “‘Oh! what an item this will make for the Cavortin’ Cyclone,” he groaned. ‘If I don’t get fifty cents for this, ll forever abandon journalism.” . After much. deliberation, he settled upon bis route and started off in an opposite direction from Shining Bar, and for a good hour tramped on, and would undoubtedly still have es g0- ing bad not two masked men stepped suddenly from the chaparral into his path, a pair of cocked revolvers in hand. ; ‘‘Halt!” one of them said, sternly. ‘‘Who are you, and =e are you goin’?” . ‘‘Y am Charles Pygmalion Jones, reporter for the Cavortin’ Cyclone of Cheyenne, so don’t rob me, for Heaven’s sake, as I haven’t a copper. I’m going right away to Shining Bar to start, a ne per, and if you will teil me your names I will: give you an immense puff—charge you nothing at all.” “Waal! my tame is Pilgarlic Pete, an’ this is Amazon Alf, but ye better come along ter head- quarters, an’ see ther capt’in furst. Come! ~ ¢
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walk a chalk line now, or I'll put a buzzer fn your pate!” ‘For Heaven’s sake, wheré are you going to take me? Iam Charles Pygmalion Jones.” “Don’t make no difference. You’se goin’ ter ree McParland, the road-agent, now!” CHAPTER VIII. 4 QUEER WOOING—DENVER DOLL’S LITTLE GAME. THE morning following Denver Doll’s visit to the council-room of the conspirators, Yankee telt decidedly more like himself, than he hnd stnce he had been wounded, and was up and cut for a stroll by the time the sun began to gild the tree-tops of the mountain. He wandered out upon the Bar to the point where the river swept around it, and there en- yuntered, much to his surprise, Miss Isabel erner, ' She was seated upon a rock, gazing out upon the water, and a large bowlder being behind her, Yankee did not see her until be was almost beside her.. Not seeming surprised, it was evident that she had seen him coming. ‘: -morning, Mr. ffister!” she said, with a pleasant smile. ‘“‘I am delighted to see you.” ‘*Geod-morning,” Yankee answered coolly. ‘*T was not aware that any one was here.” ‘“‘T presume not. The bowlder hid me. How are you feeling?” “Very much improved. shot came near doing for me!” ‘It was such a shocking thing for any one to do, 1 can’t imagine who nolia tate been mean enough to fire the shot. Papa feels badly over it, too, I assure you.” “Over the pepper and salt bath, more likely,” Yankee responded, dryly. ‘‘Ha! ha! I was really amused at his plight, particularly as we haven’t been on very good terms, lately. You see, he wants me to marry a man I despise, and I will never marry any one, unless it is the man of my choice. | hear that poor Dora is really dead, Charley?” “Did you? Iwas not aware that there is conclusive proof of it yet!” ‘But IT understand from papa that she and vour child really perished in the mountains. You did so wrong in leaving your home— Dora was such an admirable little wife.. I should think you would get lonely without a wife, Charley.” ‘* Without my own wifeIam. I would give ‘an arm if it would bring her back to me.” “ But at will marry again?” * Possibly, if I can find some one just’ like Dora.” ; * But it would not be a hard matter to find a toving heart, maybe, to fill ber place.” “You are speaking one word for yourself and two for me, or vice versa—which?” Yankee demanded. ‘Isabel, I have no desire to hurt your eating, so let’s phange the subject—or he iter still, [ will bid you a pleasant good-morn- ing! “Stop!” she cried, arising haughtily. ‘‘ You are entirely too hasty. Thanking you, I have not the least desire to make love to you. used to be your friend, but after your cruel treatment of your wife, my cousin, my respect: for you ceased. I was just trying you to see bow much man your wild career had left in wie pol I tee aaah Go!” ‘*T will, thank you. ill you impersonate Mile. Zoe, to-day?” He watched her like a hawk, as he spoke. She turned white—then her face flushed crimson with passion. She could not speak, but stamping her foot, pointed toward the town. With a smile of triumph, Yankee obeyed her silent command and sauntered away. ‘By a hap-hazard shot I firéd direct into the ar tamp!” he mused. ‘She is Mlle. Zoe instead of Crystal Carrol, whom I first suspect- ed. Well! well! Here’s fun! The fair Isabel wants to marry me, and proposed to do it by ‘craft, if she couldn’t by fair means. Then there’s Crystal Carrol would not mind, I sur- mise, if she got a chance. She also has some reason for desiring the safety of McPar- land. Isabel, according to her own assertion, is out with ber daddy, and it wouldn’t be sur- prising if she was in with thé road-agent, since, as Mlle. Zoe, she claimed she could produce the child, which she could not do, except she was in with MeParland. Altogether, if I am any judge. things are considerably mixed,” Denver Doll knew that it was important for ber to attend the second meeting the con- spirators, to learn what new sche were to be formed in regard to the plot to seize the Bar. The treacherous 4 But, to go in the disguise of Steward, would be to thrust her foot in the fire, Merely be- cause Miller, the renegade, must have found out thet Steward had not been out of McPar- land’s camp the previous night. “Tie only way I can see, is to have Miller intercepted and held for awhile, so that I can represent him at the meeting, on the plea that he dare not leave camp for fear of creating an open breach between himself and McParland too soon. I think I can trust the boys to the work of capturing him. Accordingly, she gave her eccentric trio in- structions, and sent them forth to capture Mil- ler, when he should approach the town, after which she arranged herself for the character of the Spaniard, Steward. First of all, let us follow the steps of Walt, Yakie and Chug, and note their success. Proceeding to the upper edge of the town for consultation, they soon got into an altercation. ‘* Dis vas yoost apoud der science off der mat- ter. Ve go up der gulch und vaylay him, like der real road-agents do, und capture him mit der woozle off der revolfer, eh?’ “ Kirect. Dis yar chile will lead de attack,” ‘No! no! dot vas foolisbness. Germany vas der piggest military coundry—Germany vil lead der attack!” “Kil yi! 1 jes’ bet you de soles ob dese hyar boots dat America nebber takes a back seat fo’ sour-krout an’ limburger cheese. Dis yar chile aire related to all dem yar great generals, Sherman, Grant, Napoleon an’ Garibaldi!, Why, chile, I wore de berry first Garibaldi waist dat old Garibaldi ebber made?” ‘Not vas noddinks,” Yakie declared, disdain- fully. ‘*Germany haff der piggest figbters und generals in der vorld. Yoost look at der great Schwartz, Leopold, Paddy Ryan und vellers like dot! I say I lead dis attack or else you can agcept my resignation |” ‘Wo’ de Lor’, ef Missy Doll was here, she’d done gone gib you a black eye,” Walt declared. ‘‘To settle de matter, I propose we elect de rat- | eater to take de lead ob de procession,” But Chug quickly shook his head, ‘““Chug, no leadee!” he grunted, ‘’Melican man velly brave, China: an muchee blg coward allee samee!” ‘‘Dree cheers for der vite, red und plue! Sharmeny leads der vay!” Yakie roared, ges- ticulating wildly. ‘‘E pluribus onions! Ameriky ferever ter de fore!” bellowed Walt. ‘Jes’ you lockee byar now, Dutchy! I jest done gove tell you dat if i don’t lead dis campaign, dar’s gwine to be gore spilt yar in less ’n a minute. I’'se a butter, I is, an’ I ’clar to goodness, V'll but you’se way froo de mountings!” And Walt’s African eyes bulged with undis- putable earnestness. ‘* Hello! What's the matter here? What you rascals quarreling about?’ a voice cried, aud who should walk in upon the sceme but Monroe Miller, who wad been attracted to the spot. by the sound of excited voices. Walt recognized him by Denver Doll’s de- scription, end quickly drawing and cocking his revolver, he shoved it in front of the outlaw conspirator’s face. ** Hands up, Marse Miller!" he cried, emphati- cally. ‘* You’se jes’ de berry huckleberry we’se arter, ‘deed you is, Hi! Germany, whose got de lead now, hey?’ ‘‘Dot vas mine brisoner! I vas seen him afore you did, so helb me!” Yakie blustéred. ‘Never mind dat, chile. Jes’ you an’ rat- eater bind him, while I cubber him wid de per- suader, fo’ suah! Yah! yah!” ‘*See here! what in the devil does this mean?” Miller blustered, ina rage. ‘Ill have you in- ferval idiots strung up for this. Lower your pistol. you black nigger.” : “Deed I won't,” Walt declared, a wicked glitter in his black eyes. ‘‘ You’se ay prisoner, sah, an’ I’se gwine to hold ye right ‘yar, tilb you’se bound fes’ an’ sure. Han’s up, you rascallion, or I sw’ar to goodness ef I don’t rae de scalp cl’ar offin youh head, suah cer- in Miller could not doubt but what be was done for, so far as the present was concerned, and was wise enough not to resist when they at- tempted to bind him. ‘What am I thus insulted for?” he gritted. “Whom must I thank for this?” te vas der bersonage,” Yakie answered, strutting around to get a view of the prisoner. ‘“‘M name vas Yawcob Dinkelepiel Strauss, und vas der captain off dish i ani Fx Dente binges lie!” chu Chug. “Deed it is!* Christie chimed tn. ‘‘ Denver Be : i alee ell, you can yoost bet your red nose dot I | , ee \ Doll ordered us to capture you, boss, an’ I had de ’stinguished honor of makin’ de arrest.” ‘*Denver Doll?” Miller exclaimed, ‘““'Yas, sab, de Ace, Queen an’ Trump of all de detectives, sah! Bhe’s jes’ gwine fo’ Tai road-agents like a grasshopper after a hay- seed, sah! She’s jes’ gwine to abscorchulate an’ exterminate de hull consarn, for suah!” ‘‘Humph! I think I understand,” the con- Srrmer muttered, ‘It was she who played the part of Steward so cleverly, If I don’t ee out of this dilemma, the whole scheme bids fair to be frustrated.” : ; Denver Doll had named to her pards an out- of-the-way place, ina transverse ravine, where they should take the prisoner; so, according] he was marched off, and the spot was reeched, in due time, and the outlaw bound toatree, _ A camp-fire was then built, and the three guards squatted around it for a smoke. After their pipes were out, a vote was taken, to see which of the three should remain on guard, while two of them took a nap. f The lot fell to Chug, and Walt and Yakie stretched themselves out, and were soon fast asleep. a ; Miller's eyes gleamed with triumph, as soon as he heard the stentorian snore of and the accompaniment of the Garey ‘“‘If I don’t make a break now, there will be poor chances of my getting free,” he muttered, “Tvea Scaainecaaitad idea that I can work the Chinaman for all he is worth,” #2 Waiting a while lorger, so as to be on the safe side, he attracted the attention of Chug, with a dismal groan. b Seats j “Oh! oh! I have terrible pains in my stom- ach,” hesaid. ‘‘ Have you got a drop of whisky to give me, pig-tail?” “es Aa Chung shook his head. ‘*Got no whiskee!” he declared, “ But I have,” Miller said. ‘If you'll release one of my hauds a minute, I'll get it, and you shall have a swig of it,” Now, if Chug had one predominating ver ness, it was for fire-water, free of expense, He never was known to spend a cent for liquor, por was he ever known to refuse a treat, where it was ‘‘on the square.” He now knew that Miller had been deprived of his weapons, and also that Walt and Yakie were sound asleep. ; ae What harm could there be in getting » Grint when it was freé, and there was no ger of losing the prisoner? vei Thus he arene, and in a poemens more he was undoing the cords about Miller’s wrists. ‘‘Mindee, no funnee business, or China- man ipa debbil quick, with ’volvee,” he cau- tioned. ‘ : / “Oh, I’m aqdare as a dollar,” Miller replied. — Chug soon had the outlaw’s hands free, and stood in waiting, a pistol drawn in his rae. ; ‘tNow, for the whisky,” and Miller drew two half-pint flasks from his inside pocket, which were filled with liquor. ‘‘ Here’s one for you and one for me. Drink hearty.” cenlentiatall Chug took the proffered flask, and eyed it a moment, suspiciously, aa quickly Miller’s keen eyes noticed it, and he examined his own bottle, ‘*See here!” he exclaimed, excitedly, “I have given you the wrong bottle! One ¢ tains brandy and the other contains whisky. You have got the brandy. Trade, will you? — Whisky is good enough for you.” ‘* Not muchee, allee allee samee like ’Melican man,” and Chug put his finger to his nose as he skurried away to a seat on a log by the camp-fire, quite Sorecme 3 to rebind the captive. ‘Chug velly muchee. likee age ¢ y Aart a _ ‘Well, drink away, you rascal, IH have to put up with the whisky,” Miller growled. Chug gave a grunt and applied his lips to the muzzle of the bottle; mor ald he “let up” antil — the last drop of the liquor was in his stoma ‘‘Humph! it’s but a matter of afew minutes till that fellow’s dead drunk,” Miller mused, And he was right; the potent liquor soon had the effect of making Chug extremely drowsy, and in ten minutes he was off in astupor, with cat-like footsteps,, the prisoner away from the camp. “ Now for Shining Bar, and an on us!” he gritted. ‘ The Ohinaman will never drink again,-I fancy, this side of Jordan. It ain’t d idea to have a bottle of pois whisiey with a fellow at all times,” 4 In Jess than an hour, by rapid was at the rear door of the Post-o: | sa" i throug! idle bat ell was dark within, ve / e Teuton, — ottle con-— samee! Me like blandy, | : . of the trick this Denver Doll Ras ac ties played — = i Po = 2 mh 2 - Slee See 7 3 soe! net Nes se & ia ¥ ‘ af ‘4 th < ee Pi pie) i 7} « me ’ ‘. (ay ay 7
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12 The meeting had not assembled yet, as it wa com) tively early in the evening. ‘*T will keep shady,” he iieeed “until the crowd is fully ther, then I will step in and see what can be done with this detective fairy, Denver Doll.” He retired to nearly the same spot where Doll had concealed herself the previous night, and waited. a It was not long before Verner made his ap- pearance, and at the understood signal was ad- mi a / Thereafter, one by one, the men put in an ap- nee and entered after the three taps and he chirp of a cricket. Steward, alias Denver Boll, came last. She was arrayed the same as the previous night, She os grag the door, cautiously looking around her, and was admitted. “Oh, my sly girl! your to-night,” Miller muttered, gliding forward to the door. ‘“‘You may bea good detective, but ‘you have mistaken your calling in this in- stance.” He applied his ear to the key-hole and list- erner was speaking. me will not work ened. “ Ah! you are on hand, eh?’ ho was saying. “8 ere is Miller?” “It will not be safe for him to leave tho camp to-night, and se I will serve in bis place and acfé for him,” was the response. ‘ The matter has got to be worked carefully until we are fully organized.” “Yes. Let mesee, You are Steward!” Miller burst into the room then. “Not by any means!” he cried, sternly. “That is not Steward, but is Denver Doll, the detective. She must never be allowed to leave this room alive! If she does our plans are ruined.” CHAPTER IX. _ TWO PLANS THAT DIDN'T WORK. Miss IsaBeL VERNER had spoken the truth, when she told Yankee that she and her father ‘were not on friendly terms. They had not spoken since McParland’s last visit to the bouse, as related in another chapter, and Miss Isabel had promptly left her parental abode, and re- moved her effects to the boarding-house, where ‘she had conceived the idea of impersonating a fortune-teller, in hopes that she might influence Yankee as a victim of her wiles, She had accordingly left town on one stage as ag erner, and returned on another as a What had partially been the results of her _ masquerade, is well known to the reader. Anticipating events a couple of hours, from the time Miller, the conspirator, had exposed Denver Doll in the rear room of the Post-office, we will follow the movements of Isabel. Leaving the boarding-house, without bein disguised, she walked over to the cigar store an saloon of Crystal Carrol, and found the pretty mistress bebind the cigar counter. She looked up, surprise expressed upon her countenance, when she saw the speculator’s daughter. és yacsexenings Miss Verner said, conde- scendingly. ‘‘I bave seen you several times at a distance, but I did not know until recently that it was really you, Dora!’ Didn’t you?” Crystal responded, dryly. ‘ It must have shocked you to have made the dis- covery. Is this some joke that is out, or is it possible that people can not read the name upon the sign over the door?” ; : “A good feint, but you know blood will tell. LI always believed you would make a good act- ress, cousin,” Miss Verner went on, coolly. ; “Well, I must be grewing crazy, or else there than I supposed. J, your cousin, ma’am? hy you pal 38 be out of your mind” “Not a bit of it, Dora,” Isabel persisted. “I mever was more sane. You lucky girl, to be Yankee Eisler’s wife, you should have never left him. Now, I bave got him.” * ‘‘ Yankee Hisler? Oh! you have reference to the handsome gentleman who got shot. Well, I cav"t say asl would object to having a hus- are more escaped lunatics in the count _’ band as noble and manly as he seems to be. But you say you have him, eh?” ‘Most assuredly. I can get little Ethel for him, and, when I can do that, why, as a matter of eourse he is ready to marry me.. He really hs gi me before, you know, but your baby ace prevented.” i Crvstal laughed outright. “ What an extremely canoe person she remarked. ‘‘ But it will be so nice if Mr. Risler's little girl can be recovered. When will your wedding be?” ' , i ou are,” |° ‘sauntered over to the c i will be ina few days,” Verner answered, flouncing out of the store, secretly in a great rage. E I'll take chances on that!’ Crystal decided. “Tf you are Mr. Hisler’s choice, I shall be sur- prised, for I do not believe he fancies such ec- centric people as you.” Miss Verner had called at the cigar store for the express purpose of testing the matter of who Crystal was, and had got s@ little satisfac- tion that she was almost ready to cry, when she got from under the light cf Crystal’s calm, bril- liant eyes. Leaving the vicinity of the cigar store, she dodged across the gulch, and finally paused be- fore the mouth of one of the mines that was drifted into the side of the mountain. All was dark and silent, and no one appeared in the vicmity of the placo except Miss Verner, but this fact did not seem to discourage her, for she took a seat upon a rock, and waited patiently. ‘*He will not be long, I guess,” she mused. ‘He promised he would come, and | do not fancy he will forsake me.” She wasright. It was not half an hour ere McParland, undisguised, except by a half mask, made his appearance, *“ Ab! you are here, eh?” tipping his hat. ‘* How do I find the fair Isabel this evening?” “Happy, now that you have come,” she replied, making room for him on the rock beside her. /‘* Il have been waiting ever so long, ready to answer the question you asked at our last meeting.” ** Ah! yes—let mo see—oh! what was it?” and ee king scratched his bead as if puz- zled. “Ob! you sly rogue!” pinched his arm, playfully. me to become ycur wife? ** Well—I—I1 don’t know but I did, Isa—but, then, you see, | hardly fancy you would be con- tent to be an outlaw’s wife.’ ‘* What caie I, as long as I love you? Accord- ing to your own proposition, deliver up to me the child, and I will marry you, and so have the fortune between us.” “Yes, that would be very nice, but you see— well, in fact, I have made up my mind not to incumber myself with a wife at present. There a be some developments soon which will make it necessary for me to look out for myself. And then, too, I am getting tired of this wild life, and long Yor sométhing better. The child is on my hands, and I hae to get rid of her, at all hazards, by selling her to the bighest bidder. You have a chance with the rest.” “John McParland, you are a wretch, an ingrate, and a deceiver!” ‘ “Pshaw! You don’t intend to let me off that easy, do you? Why not express yourself in stronger terms, while you are at it?’ Isabel fairly trembled with passion. ‘You know that there are no words adequate to describe you,” she hissed, ‘‘ You bave tri- fled with my affections, and as good as asked me to marry you. Now, then, if you don’t stick to your word like a man, I'll be revenged upon you.” ‘* Revenge be it then, fair Isabel, for I can- not marry you. If you wish to put in a bid for the child, between now and the 20th, a letter sent through the Post-office, and addressed to Mr. Jinks, will fix it all right. Adieu, dearest! I am sorry to have to tear myself away, but such is the case. Hope you may get a husband soon.’ And then he walked away, with a wicked laugh, leaving her to make out of the situation what she could. avd Miss Verner ** Did you not ask Yankee Eisler had seén Crystal several times since McParland’s escape fromehim, and each time she had spoken pleasantly—so pleasantly, that_a strange thrill would go to his heart. ‘* By heavens, I cannot believe that she.is not Dora, despite all her assertions to the contrary!” he would mutter. ‘‘It does not seem possible to me that there could be two persons in one world so soapy t alike. But-I may be mis- taken. hen itis proven to me that I am, I will believe it.” The thought would not leave him that Crystal Carrol and his lost wife were one and the same persons. It haunted him by night and by day, and finally, so strong did the matter bear et him, that he determined to test the truth fully, to his own satisfaction. os _ About an hour before Denver Doll’s re in the room in the rear of the | ce, he ‘ store, and paused in the first room where cigars were kept. i ’ * ® L ee o Me ae Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. | “That’ is not re 4 settled yet—but it | There he waited some moments, bet ne ene came, ' The sound of footsteps overhead, told bim that Crystal was up-stairs. A few cards lay upon the show-case. Takin g one of them, the Sport wrote upon it, with pencil:— “Dora, my wife: I still love you, and my life will never be complete, without you. Why live this transparent lie, as Crystal Carrol, when you know & is wrong, and I know you were once mine?” He mixed the card among the others then, and rapped smartly upon the counter. Shortly after, Crystal made her appearance, and he purchased some clea . A perceptible redness about her eyes told him that she ha been crying, and his heart gave an exultan bound, atthe discovery :—perhaps she had been crying about him! He said nothing to indicate that he had taken notice of her weakness, however, and after a few words on ordinary topics, he took leave— but not leave of the vicinity. Making a detour, he was soon in the rear of the store he had just left, Although the shanty was une and a balf stories high, a back linter or summer kitchen had been added to it, the roof sloping back to within about six feet of the ground, This was just as Yankee had expected, By climbfng on the roof of the addition, one could easily enter the rear second story window of the main building. Yankee stood for some minutes, in deep thought. He was tempted to make an entrance, stealthily, into Miss Carrol’s upper rooms, in hopes of being able to discover something among her effects that would identify her as being Dora, his lost wife. It wasa rey thing to attempt, he well knew, but he was willing to risk a great deal to satisfy himself on this one point. He took off his boots, and left them on the ground, and then succeeded in climbing onto the roof. From there he bad no difficulty in gaining en- a gs to the single unplastered room over the store. —¥ A lamp was dimly burning upon a stand, and by its light the burglar. for-love’s-sake was able to command a view of bis surroundings. The furniture consisted of a bed, a standpa chair, and a trunk, which was locked. Some clothing hung upon ‘the wall, but none of it was such as Yankee remembered having belonged to Dora. Nor could he recall to memory any of the trinkets upon the stand, The trunk was locked, and having no way ef opening it, nor any disposition to do so, his seareh was virtually at an end, **T’ve had the trouble for the pains I’ve taken and nothing more!” he muttered, “I must get out of bere before I am discovered.” In this he was quite successful, and his ven- turescme visit was accomplished without trou- ble, as be later congratulated bimself, The words of Monroe Miller caused an elec- trical effect upon the conspifators, in the rear room of the Post-office. one accord thet leaped to their feet, and revolvers were drawn, on every hand, - ‘*What! what is this?’ Valentine cried in alarm, “T’s just what I said!” Miller exclaimed. “This pares who is personating Steward, is none other than Denver Doll the detective. She hoes got into our secret, and fearing exposure when I returned to-nigbt, she bad her accom- plices waylay and capture me. But I escaped, and here Iam to expose her.” Denver Doll stood at bay, a defiant expres- sion upon ber fece, and gleaming from ber eyes, while her hand rested upon fhe butt of a re- volver in her belt, ' “Ts this true—are vou Denver Doll, come here to spy upon us?’ Verner demanded, turn- ing flercely upon her. . “*Reckon that’s about the size of it,” was the cool response. ‘ Right well I knew there was some deviltry going on, in which you tad a hand; and so I thought J might as well find out, and hinder you all I could.” **Curse you! You shall find that won’t work. You've either got to join us, or we'll put you where you'll never blab our secrets.” ‘*Reckon I won’t join!” Doll retorted, de- fiantly. ‘‘I ain’t parfial to associatin’ with thieves and cutthroats. If you let me go free, Tl do all I can to help break up your crowd— Verner you can bet on that!” ‘Then I’m cyrsed if you get a chance to in- terfere, until our plens are completed!” the speculator gritted, ‘‘1’ve a good notion te tava ar t ma
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Denver Doll, the Detective Q a gt ne i put out of the way, in good earnest and er, ‘Use your own judgment about that!” Doll suggested, apparently not in the least worried. “Tf I am not found by my pards, by to-morrow sunrise, they will know that I have been foully dealt with, and report to our backers!” Verner s , The others looked anything but pleased. “What do you mean?” Verner demanded. “I mean that | am a regularly appointed de- tectdve, and that when [ or my aides call for assistance, Uncle Sam is bound to furnish it. There chances to be a company of cavalry in this vicinity now, and they are my backers, when I cho to call upon them. AsI said, if a hair of m¥ head is harmed, my comrades will notify the military forces, and they will make Shining Bar fg too lively for you. Every memMer of yout sneaking league is known to my men é ‘A clearly manufactured lie-—+but it won’t work!” Werner declared. mit yourself to be bound, or you will be shot where you stand. It is not necessary to resort to desperate measures, unless you provoke them,” Doll knew not what they intended to do with her, but she was well satisfied that no good could conse to her by attempting petaiace Tor every man in the roam had a weapon drawn, ready for emergency. / ‘1 suppose I shall bave to accept, as you are too many for me. But you can bet that I’H turna trump yet, before the game’s up.” At Verner’s suggestion cords were procured and the brave l’s bands were bound behind her, and her weapons taken from her. ‘*T propose we jest do up the ie right here, and have it off our hands. ark me, if we don’t kill the cussed girl outright, she’ll be the means of breaking us up. I propose that we dyvaw lots to see who ‘cuts her throat!” a big brute advised. ‘*! protest against such brutality!” cried Tom Markward, while Kelly nodded. his approval. “Sbe can be taken care of without coming Jown to downright murder.” “Ll have a place in view where I can take ier and secrete her!” announced Verner. A consultation was then held, in an under- toue, after which Denver Doll was gagged and blindfolded, and then seized by either arm, she was led from the cabin. | In ten minutes they had reached the river, where she was forced to enter a boat, and Ver- ner entered after her, and pulled out across the dark, forbidding stream toward the opposite shore, which vas lined with gloomy pines, The boat was not long in reaching its destina- vion, when the speculator ordered Denver Doll to disembark. He then took her by the arm, and led ber along, for perhaps a mile, when she suddenly felt a rope thrown around her and she was drawn tightly against a tree. Ropes were then wound about her and the tree, at different eee so that. it was impos- sible for her to stir. There!” Verner exclaimed, with triumph. “You are in Wolf Gorge, now, and safe from troubling our tribunal. When’ the wolves get bungry, they'll give you acall. Good-by!” Doll did not answer, but listening, heard bim walk away. Perhapé } her feelings could better be imagined tham described. She felt that her doom was sealed, CHAPTER X. THE STAMPEDE, AND A BOUNCE FOR THE BRIG AND CHIEF. Tax next day was the nineteenth day of November. . 2 To several persons considerable interest was attached to the fact. k Early in the morning there rode furiously down into the town, a horseman—an old, white- whiskered, shabbily dressed pilgrim, who, judg- ing 3 ap ances, had rode long and fast. As he dashed along through the main street, he blew loud blasts upon a cavalry trumpet, with the evident intention of arousing the town, And to say he succeeded, would be drawing it mild, ' Ia a very few minutes literally the whole ation of the camp was gathered in front of the Post-office, where the eccentric stranger was engaged in tacking up a huge poster, which had been written out im pen print or rather, with a Jette brush, by some one who was evidently f with the art. aa With intense eagerness did the folk of cong Ber devour the contents of the poster, after i ' ‘Surrender and per-* ye was nailed up, and the reading thereon, cre- ueen, ated a more instantaneous Commotion than had anything in the way of a semsation that had struck the town feralong while. ° BHagerly, over and oyer, was the bill perused, and this is the information it contained: “ EXTRAORDINARY NOTICE TO EVERYBODY! ** Greatest Discovery Heer Known / ‘Righest mines just opened at Wildcat City, that the world has ever seen! The earth strewn with nuggets—the quartz assays two thousand dollars to the ton, Claims forsale. Mechanics wanted. Five thousand men, women and children wanted instant- ly, towork. The bearer ef this notice will act as guide. Ten dollars, and upwast a day guaranteed every one, RES & Co., Owners.” If the reader has ever had a chance to be- come aquainted with the nature of the average class of inhabitants of western mining towns, it will not seem strange that such a notice should set the ball of excitement a-rolling. Western history records more than one in- stance where moderate-paying camps have been depopulated in a day, in favor of some new and promising strike. And the effect on Shining Bar, of the above notice, was but a repetition of what other camps had experienced. First one man declared farewell to Shining Bar, and made off ‘to pack up his few worldly effects; then another followed suit, and another, and auother, until the movement became a stampede. Conspicuously prominent in urging on the sanguine aspirants for fortune, was Verner, and often he slipped a ten-dollar gold piece into the hand of some rather doubtful pilgrim, say- ing: “Go ahead, pard, and don’t shirk when a chance is open for you to make a stake. If you ever get able to pay this back, remember who urged you on; if you don’t it will neither make nor break,” ail Invariably this would break all resolutions to stay in Shining Bar, and the pilgrims would be added to the general hegira, By noon the train was ready to start, and when it moved away up the gulch, not over a score of people were left in Shining Bar, and those were such as Verner had personally or- dered to stay with him. ao far his unparalleled plotting had worked well. hy As soon as the stampeders were safely away from the camp, Verner and Monroe Miller started for the camp of McParland, the outlaw, where by prearranged a abe all was to ready for the capture of Mc arland and such of his men as would not join in the movement. The journey was accomplished without in- cident. The rendezvous of the road brigand was located in a small mountain - locked valley, mavy hundred feet above the level of Shining Bar, where a searcher would hardly have ex- pected to find a camp. There was one large strong cabin, and several smaller ones, formed in a circle about the re- treat, the center being used/as a sort‘ of plaza and corral for the horses, When Verner and Miller reached this valley, none of the band were visible about it—so they i their way to the largest cabin and en- tered. It was a large, one roomed affair, with a sort of bar at one end, and.a number of tables and stools scatterad about the floor, which was noth- ing more than the-earth itself, There were fifty or more men in the apart- ment, all gathered about the tables, but there was scarcely any notice taken of the entrance of the two conspirators, who bad{masked them- selves like the rest of the band, McParland yimself was seated in one corner, engaged in playing cards with one of bis men. Miller arid Verner advanced to where Steward the Spaniard was seated alone ata table. _ ‘Well! is everything all right?” Miller asked in a low tone, .**Have ‘you “made any pro- ress?” ‘ “You bet! Every man in the room, except McParland, has joined the movement.” “Good! Tllclose the matter!” , He walked over to where the captain was seated, and leveled a revolver at him. ‘Mac, the jig is up!” he said, grimly. “The boys have got tired of you, as a commander, and also of this camp. So we’ve gobbled u Shining Bar, as ¥ place of rendezvous, 4 have elected Val Verner captain, in your place. You are our prisoner.” __ ere That MgParland was somewhat surprised was evident; but he controlled himself markable coolness, - with re- 13. if “Ts that sof’ he said. ‘We'll I’ve had an idea for some time that there Fra manny, i % ing, andam more prepared than you imagine. { tender my resignation, with, all, willingness, having made up my mind to retire from the fession for once and all time.” ; ‘*-You bet you'll retire!” Verner added, with achuckle. ‘ We are going > make you a pris- oner and leave you here, under guard, until we * can communicate with Uncle Sam’s blue-coats who are said to be in the mountains, when, if we can get any reasonable reward out of them, we will et ’em have you for hemp-stretching purposes, “Curse you! Is this the sort of gratitude © you have, after all I bave done for you, you wretch?’ ‘ ‘Just about. You’d have given us up to the military if we hadn’t got too smart for you, so you’ve no cause to growl, Throw up your hands and allow yourself to be bound, for re- siprenee is useless with all the odds against | you No commander ever knew his own men better than did McParland. Death would be the only way of escaping capture; so be held up his bands, a proud smile upon his face. . “Proceed!” he ordered. ‘I think too much aoe of my fine flock to attempt to clean them out, I am your prisoner, through your s' rategy, and I surrender with the best of grace.” At a motion from Verner several of the out- laws bound their deposed captain securely both hand and foot, and then with the aid of hooks and staples driven into the wall they fas- tened him thereto, so that he was a prisoner im the fullest sense of the word, Yr “There you are!” Verner cried, triumphant- ly. “You make a fine appearance, too, as a prisoner of war. By the way, where is the said I will take that back with me to Shining . ar,”. ' Saepcsi xy Baltes “Will you, though?” MeParland sneered. ‘““Trather fancy not. The child is in safe hands, where I deemed it advisable to place her, in anticipation of some such an event as this. When you set your buzzard talonson her it, will be when I forget myself,” : ‘‘Curse you! if you do not give me'that child I willamurder you! To-morrow is the 20thday = = of November!” m. ; “IT am fully weil aware of that.’ The child ~ will never come in for a claim upon the inheri- — tance! I have sent it away where the search of a a lifetime could not discover it. As for mur- ae dering me, you human wolf, I suppose that is your privilege.” n hae ‘‘And 1 will improve it, too!” he hissed, a a snatching a pistol from his belt and cocking = ~~ t it; 7 Miller bastily knocked it from his > an . 1 ‘* Fool!” he cried, ‘‘ the man is not for you to es We we chinee oe Pn wie ee acare. 10w you rush things, or put yow in irons be- I ore you know it, Come! I propose t t a hands strike out for Shining Bar, Zinga, you will stay here and guard the prisoner,” The proposition was received with a grontet ‘ eprrere y the band, and so Verner had no choice but to accompany them without secur- ing Etbel Eisler or even accomplishing bis ven- ‘eance, we a a; . Zinga, who had been left to guard McPar- land, was a brawny balf-breed, with a treach- ‘i erous eye, but he made no offer'to harm the = master he had served’so long. — hs tee On the contrary, he amused himself by sam- pling the stock of navore bebind the bar, and = is samples were so liberal that he soon became as happy as a lark 1 drunk!” he’ said, a h- “Zing git debbi pproac ing McParland, with a couple of bottles of the choicest whisky in hand, “Like water ugh ‘ ) ‘ag ds “S’posing you let. me loose, to a swig, Ee too!” the outlaw suggested. ‘‘ We'll haveage- — lorious time, you bet.” ° férsi¥s 1 ARE RTE? But Zinga, crafty of instinct, winked his eye knowingly, : e <i No let Mac free!” he replied. ‘Get Mac off ey whisky, d h!” FI Ne" He went back to the bar, and procured oe apt ed, ae ar, tle of the worst ‘‘ p’isen” the ranch effor and then approached McParland. one “Open mouth. Zinga pour down throat!’” 8 s he chuckled, villainously, I won’t drink!” Soy “You go to thunder, a, ex-chief orange perceiving that be bad got - himself into an unenviable cen ae for ‘he; = knew strangulation would attend Zinga’s at- Triad aioe bHtk de Mags scalp!” the: : “ nm mo ‘ —or , , yi half-breed threatened, and he attemnphed 60 Pa “
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14 “2 er the nose of the bottle between McParland’s r . That he would eventually have succeeded, is probable, had vot an unforeseen accident oc- curred to him. y The sharp “ ping!” of a rifle was heard; Zinga dropped the bottle, and staggered back to the floor—dead! The next instant the door opened, and a per- son entered. McParland started! . Of all persons in the world, this was the one ‘he least desired to see. Lf he had bad hopes for his lite, before, they all faded away, now. The person who entered, was none other than Miss Isabel Verner, and there was a decidedly triumphant expression upon her face. “So Il baye you, have 1?” she hi:sed, exult- antly. ‘‘ You thought you would never ba troubled by me, again, didn’t you? but you find out otherwise. Isabel Verner is not the girl te be trifled with, and scorned. I swore I would have revenge on you, and lam here to fulfill my promise!” 30 T perceive!” McParland replied, calmly. “You have things all your own way, now. Go ' “Not too fast. Iam here to be revenged, but 1 want to look out for my own interests before {look dut for yours. First of all, where is the child” ** Whose child?” “Do not provoke me with unnecessary ques- tions, or I will kill you, at once. You know perfectly well what child I mean—Ethel Kisler, of course!” “Oh! Is that sot Well, my beautiful Isabel, I would respectfully inform you that pretty little Ethel is alive and well, and will come omptly to time as Gabriel Porter’s heiress. y this time, the executor knows that she lives, and consequently, you and your villainous father are baffled!” F “Oh! no! never!” Isabel cried, in a frenzy of rage. “I will yet have the child and the for- tune, I will fiad out what Miss Crystal Carrol knows about the young one!” She stood a moment as if in doubt what to do —then, her hand was upraised and with a keen- edged knife, she struck McParland fieré¢ely in the breast. ; Turning, with a wild laugh, she fled from the cabin, leaving her victim alone in his misery. CHAPTER XI. DENVER AND YANKEE STRIKE HANDS. Ler us return to Denver Doll, whom we last saw a F oetaread in Wolf Ravine, beyond the river, where alentine Verner had left her to the not very tender mercy of the ferocious inhabitants of that wild ty. But, thanks to the fact, it was not yet late enough in the season for wolves and bears to be very bold and ravenous, and this gave the girl detective a little hope that she might not be troubled by them. But even though she was not molested hf wild beasts, she well knew that starvation stared her in ‘the face-unless she was rescued by some one, and ee probabilities were not very favorable that she mld be; hence, the outlook was anything but . 7 night dragged slow! She heard e d slowly away. e hea wolves howl, but wens appreached er, and at last the welcome rays of ae dawn crept into her dark, forbidding place of captivity. : This was cheerful, and somehow she felt imbued with a strong hope of escape. But the li of the silver cloud was false. The mo) away slowly. Not long ‘ere noon she heard a heavy, shuffling tread, and soon after a huge cinnamon bear made its appearance. s hat, BF, Daemon with a sort of whine, at sight of Doll, surprised to see a human being there—then it raised upon its hind legs, and lumbered forward with the evident intention of making a square meal out of thefair prisoner. , - Doll’s face turned deathly white, for the prospect of being torn to pieces was horrible. - Nearer! near the brute came, with jaws dis- tended and tongue lolling, when— Suddenly there was the sharp report of a rifle, and bruin flinched and turned in the direction _ whence came the'shot. : A moment later there was another shot, and the bear staggered and fell to the ground. Then, out from the undergrowth, across the ra- Pe ew no less a personage than Yankee, rifle Denver Doll gave a glad ery at sight of him. Here wasreseue at last, when a moment before death seemed most tmminent. “Thank Heaven it is you, Mr. Eisler!’ she said “T had **T have been searching for 28 night, when I sus- ” Yankee replied. “Sine leavi also made a great discovery.” ‘ Denver Doll, the Detective Queen, SSS : aa x, “There has been a atam of the miners to some other rset and McParland’s road- age under Valentine Verner, have taken possession of the camp as a stronghold. McParland was left a prisoner in their former road-agents’ den, and Ver- | ner proposes to turn him over to the Government, | providing a suitable reward is offered.” “How did you learn this?” “T captured a road-agent, a few minutes ago, whom Verner had sent over here to see if yet alive. I frightened the information out of bim, and he will, providing we let him go free, show. us ed pe old rendezvous, where McParland is con- e i , - “Then let’s go at once, You have but limited time now to secure your child, and I have a bone to | q } | expression upon his face. pick with the gent myself.” They ees pe left the place where Doll had been coufined, and a short walk brought them to where the outlaw was tied to a tree, , ‘We have concluded to make terms with you!” Yankee said. “ Conduct us at once to the spot where McParland is to be seen, and we will allow you to leave the mountains,” “*Tt's a bargain!’ the, prisoner said. ‘‘ Release me, and [ will take you there by a surer and safer route than by the way of Shining Bar.” “See that you do; and remember that if you make any attempt to lead us into a trap your pun- ishment shall be death. On the other hand, show us to McParland’s ranch and you shall have your lib- erty.”’ Ho cut the fellow’s bonds then and they started down the bank of the river, crossing it half a mile below Shining Bar and climbing into the mountains. By the cuilawit guidance they reached the little valley in due time and halted at some distance from the cabins. “You remain here,” said Roberts, the guide, “ while I make a reconnoissance, to learn if it will be safe for you to advance.” He strode away, and returned shortly, with a nod, “You will find McParland tied up in the large cabin,”’ he said. “‘I suppose you are done with me?” ’ “ec Yes, to show us the way back to Shining Bar; so you better wait till we go, and I will pay you well.” But Roberts was too fearful of being given up, and no words could keep him from taki departure, After he was gone the Sport and Denver Doll crossed the valley to the large cabin and entered. The sight that met their eyes caused them to ut- ter simultaneous eries of astonishment. McParland was tied as the roac-agents had left him, and his clothing below the wound was dyed red with blood, while a pool of the same was gathered at his feet on the floor. He was not déad, but had lost consciousness from the weakening effects of his great loss of blood. * By heaven! there's been devilish work here,” Yankee cried, pointing from McParland to the dead half-breed. “If the gang did this work there is no hell one can imagine that would be too good for them. This is no time to think of revenge, Dolly. We must revive this man, or the secret of the whereabouts of my child are forever concealed by the barrier of ueath.’ “You are right,’ the girl replied. ‘* Although this man and I are sworn enemies, I will do all in my power to revive him.” They cut the outlaw’s bonds and gently laid him on the floor. From the bar Yankee procured liquor and admin- istered it to him, and then dressed his wound. Afteran hour of steady application of such res- toratives as were to be had the stricken man finally opened his eyes and was conscious. He seemed surprised at the sight of Doll and Yan- re for his gaze roved from the face of one to the other. “Why did you touch me?’ he gasped, faintly. ‘Why did you not let me die?”’ “For the simple reason that you are too valuable @ man to let die just yet,”’ Yankee replied. ‘‘I have alittle account to square up with you, and so has Denver Doll, here.” ‘Neither of you will any lon curse me, for I can make T have done,’ McParland sa you can go. But hold! we may need me a have reason to ion for what wreng ** All I want of you | is your assistance to get meto some place-vhere I can die in peace, and I will surprise you!” “T will to Mee ag ae I get a little stro “T will tell you, as nasI geta atronger. If you will a me a drink—?”’ enver Doll procured some’ water, which the wounded man eagerly quaffed. He then rested a few minutes, when he once more spoke, addressing his words principally to Yankee: “This girl,"’ he said, indicating Doll, “has been my enemy for years, and abe has hel to drive me to ge. many bad th . by her persistent dogging which otherwise I probably would not have done, 1 am her half brother.’ There was a bitter feud in our family, some years ‘ago; and my step-mother used every effort to keep me out of property that came to me by my father’s death. And finally she succeeded by bribing the jury to whom the case was left for decision. I had no-way of redress, and was bounced out upon the world. Kno my temper, and fearing that if I remain- ed around my native town I would seek revenge, she fastened a crime upon me which necessitated my flight. But she reckoned without her host, I had my rev . Of her two daughters, I oar the f t, and anda AE. A bloody ife was found, and the charge & murd and making way with her, was laid upon my sboulders, and Doll, any half-sister set out upon my trail, like \ i kee, before ou were | ng a hasty. — SE ere ome on | & relentless gleuth-hound. All this happened, Yaw turned up in your \ xinivy, and we be- came enemies because we loved one girl, To you, Denver Doll, I have no apology to make, as I have never harmed you nor your sister a +“ What! Do you mean to tell me that my sister still lives?” Denver Doll eried, excitedly, the light of joyous anticipation gleaming from her eyes. *“T mean tosay exactly that. She has been with me, and been one of my warmest friends, since I took to outlawry. She can vouch for herself that I | have been’a most tender captor.” ** But where is she?” ‘In a safe place; I will perhaps tell you later.” He then asked for more water, which was given him, after which he turned to Yankee, a strange “You've sworn to kill me, I believe?” he said, in- terrogatively, * ““You couldn’t well count mo as_ sinning, if I did kill you!’ Yankee replied, coolly. ** You have done me irreparable injury!" **So you think. But you reck’ without your host. I lied to you the other night—but stop! I will make a clean breast of it, You and I both loved Dora Porter, and she married you. It hurt me to lose her, but 1 resolved to bear the loss, if she was happy. But when I saw she was unhappy, through your recklessness and inattention to her, the devil prompted me to once more pay attention to her, ** Well, you know how you ran away and left her. It partly crazed her, and when [ tried to prevail! upbdn her to come to my protection, she repulse. me and shortly after fled away into the mountain districts with her child. A spirit of revengé s:' upon me, and I followed, For weeks I failed tv find her, and in the mean time I organized my beui of road-agents. Finally, one wild November nigh’, I came across her and the child, both about haif staryed and frozen. I told her then that if she did not become mine, I would kill her. She scornfully refused, and I struck her down in my hot. anger and fled in horror at my crime: But I did not go far. My accusing conscience turned my footsteps back; the Almighty commanded me to return and try to save her whose life I had attempted. I wert back. I found her, body and removed it to a mountain cave, In going for her body, I had discovered the child in Denver Doll's camp, and concluded to leavo it there, borporeciy In the cave I donned the dis- guise of Sir Ralph hael and set about the task of bringing the dead to life. I do not think man ever worked harder, or prayed harder, thanI. And at last I was rewarded. She came back to life, but it was a long while ere she was well enough to walk. By my assiduous attention I won her respect and ratitude, if not her admiration; so that she finally old me ber story, little wernt re that I was ac- quainvéd with it. She spoke kindly of her truant husband, but declared their paths in life, forever hence, lay apart. Finally, I offered to start her in the little business in Shining Bar, to which she con- sented, on the conditions that she pay me back dol- lar for dollar, and that she has done. The child [ recovered and placed in the hands of Denver Doll’s sister, who took the best of care of it. For Dora my love revived, and I quietly pushed my suit. But it is destined that she never shall be anything more to me. Yankee Eisler, your wife and child still live in good health. You are now at liberty to ful- fill your oath of vengeance!” And the road-agent folded his arms, an expression of satisfaction upon his face. Yankee gazed at him a moment, in meditation. ‘If what you say be true," he said, “I certainly have not so much cause to be revenged upon you. But to-morrow is the 20th of November, and I want my child.’’ “It matters not whether you possess the child to- morrow, or not, so far as the Porter inheritance is concerned, for I have informed the executors, some days since, that the child is alive and well, and in ret possession. Now thet you see I am noally not he wretch you picture me, I will propose Since the desertion of my men, I have resolved that if my life is spared, I will abandon this wild career and by a reputable life atone in some degree for. my past. If you give me my freedom, I will tell you where to find those who are dear to you; then we will shake hauds and part friends, if you care to al- low me to enter into a better life, whege b good acts I may be able to pantially redeem myself’ There was a momentary silence, and then Yankeo answered: : a ‘For my part, I have nothing to say. You are free to go, and it shall be my re eee you lead the life, in the future, ‘‘ of an honest man!", uty asa detective, I should arrest you!" said, thoughtfully; ‘* But if you swear that Gerty is safe, and will truthfully tell me where T can find her, I shall not claim you as a priscner.” “Itisa Pee a and I shall expect you to fulfill your part of il, for all my friends having forseken homeless and friendlese. The me, =e literall child, Ethel, and the two women, Dora and Gerty are, so far as I know, at Crystal Carrol’s, At least, I sent Gerty there with the child, late last night, be- fore I knew definitely of the mutiny. I would ad- vise you to go there secretly, at once, and get them out of the camp, as the Devil alone knows what Verner would not do, should they fall into his clutches." / ‘You are right,” Yankee assented. ‘‘ Do you feel + Ta le ig an ob ee ¢ cow up me a safe distance from this accursed spot.” 3 in - in the “Very well. There is one horse re: arto: hawaer wae: pr cured, anf es, Sait Nabi 18 was proc an € wounded ehief assisted to mount. A stock of edibles and eee : we pe NE RE NOt
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Denver D was put in his saddle bags, and bidding Yankee and Penver Doll a sorrowful farewell, he sode slowly away out of the gulch, to be forever more lost to the world as the terror of the trail under the famous name of MeParland, the road-agent. “Treckon we have acted inthe wisest way, after all.’ Yankee observed, as they watched him ride away. ‘‘There’s the making of a man in him yet, and I guess we were right in giving him a chance. And now, let’s get back to Shining Bar, There may be lots of work for us to do yet, before we get at those we seek,”’ “ Ay! and mark you, we will find the routeinto the town guarded, so we shall have to go careftl.” They were about leaving the guich when groans | attracted their attention to one of the smaller cabins, not far from where they ere passing, “Let's investigate,” Yankoe sugested, “Some one is in trouble, that’s patent.” They crossed the valley and entered the cabin. The sight that met their gaze was one that caused them each a smile’ of wonderment and | amusement, The author of the groans was the Cyclone reporter, Charles Pygmalion Jones, He was tied to the wall, in an immovable position, and was attired in woman’s clothing, having been deprived of his own. most laughable-looking girl he made, to say the least, and it was evident that McParland had appre- ciated the fact when he had substituted the mas- querade. * Hello! MY Sia Yankee saluted, with a hearty laugh. ‘What are you doing hene?” ‘*“Oh! he’s takin’ items for the Cavortin Cy lone,” remarked Doll. ‘‘What a beautiful-lookin’ gal he is, anyh¢éw.” : “T ain’t,”’ Jones growled. “I was captured by the road-agents, and have them to thank for this fix. Oh! the experiences I have panne through would fill a large volume of prose. I have already enough matter on hand in mind, to keep the Cyclone a-going for pd “T presume you'll take the breath away from the But we must be going wind with your effusions. now, Yankee.” “What! what! are you not going to take me along? Free me, oh! free me, or I shall die!” ‘“*Well, we will; but you've got to go back to Shining Bar in the same togs you’ve got on,” Yankee announced. ‘There's no others in this camp; and besides, I wouldn’t have you>spoil your present beauty, so come along, as we’ve no time fo lose.” Jones’s bonds were cut, and having no choice but to go in the dress he wore, he followed his deliverers from the gulch, looking and feeling decidedly sheepish, The journéy back toward Shining Bar was not attended by ros incident worthy of mention, until they were within about a mile of the camp, when they suddenly came across a party of six soldiers, under the command of a lieutenant, whom Denver Doll remembered of having met before. ~ recognition was mutual, and the lieutenant said: * You are just the personI most wished to meet. I want to know what sort of a mining camp that is down the gulch. I went down there with a squad of men this morning, and after losing three was forced to beat a retreat,” ; “You were lucky to get off so cheaply,’’ Doll re- plied. ‘ McParland’s road-agent gang is in posses- sion of the town, and it will take a good troop to root them out, as they are well fortified. She went on and related what was known of the mutiny, and the ruse by which the gang had gained ‘possession of the camp. “Things don’t look quite so bright as they might, that's true,’’ Lieutenant Larrowe said, ‘** but I'll con- trive to break up this sort of business. I reckon we'll —— nthe vicinity, while I send one of my men k for the rest of my company. you two join us?” ~" “No; I will go on and reconnoiter, and perhaps may bé able to get into their camp and rescue those who are dear to me,’ Yankee yee nena * When your men come remain bere for a time, and I will ; try to report what is the condition of affairs in the camp,” os you’ go I'm with you,” Denver Doll said. “ Jonesy, you better stay here and write up your article for the Qyclone, and maybe you can make a raise of a suit of clothes among the crowd. ‘And Charles P. was of the same opinion. Since ing of the condition of affairs at Shining Bar he was not so particularly anxious to venture there, ray emma in the raiment of a woman. mver Doll and Yankee took their departure to- ward Sining Bar, bent upon the rescue of Dora, Gerty and little Ethel, if they were in the camp. The walk to the v: ‘Sjnity of the outskirts of the town was accomplish: thout incident; when they halted, and after a short consultation Doll crept cautiously on in advance to reconnoiter. In a fow minutes she returned. ’ “There are = ar doing guard pe below phe ‘and the prospeets 0: ng them are not en- teaateg, ie said, Sablosay The only way I ean suggest to get past them is to overpower one of them and put on his togs, including the mask, and then allow the éther one of us to slide by. They are positioned across the gulch, at intervals of about fifty feet, and by pouncing onto one the nearest to one side or the other of the gulch I think it is pos- sible we ht make a go of it.’’ P - “We can but try it,” Yankee assented, And with cat-like movements they glided forward, ent Upen one of the gu and making tel entree £nto Bar in of the barriers Eber tuad been placed to oppose husband. |’ John! villain though he has been, he h . THE BIG SURROUND, CrystaL Carron had taken no part in the stam- ede. She had half suspected some deviltry back of t all, but having full rolinose on herself, had made up her mind to stay and see the whole business through. ‘ Besides, Gerty, the sister of Denver Doll, had come to her, during the night preceding the stam- ede, bringing with her little Ethel, and a note from cParland, which said: : “Dora:—I send you, herewith, your child, and the | woman who has taken care of it since it has been in my possession; the woman is my half-sister and a sister of Denver Doll. Realizing that there is no longer any use of aspiring to the rightful , ossession of P ects I am going to forever leave the West, and try to begin life over again, in soine other place. Forgive me for the wrongs I have done you, and go back to him who loves you, and is repentant for the past. J. McP.” And knowing it would not then be safe to expose little Ethel in Shining Bar, was another reason why | Crystal, or Dora, as we shall’ hereafter call her, did not join in the stampede. She secreted Gerty and little Ethel in the up- stairs room, and patiently awaited the reappear- ance of the handsome Sport, Yankee. When Verner returned to the Bar, accompanied by theroad-agents, she comprehended the situation, and became fearful that she had done wrong in not joining in the exodus. But it was now too late to escape so all she had to do was to be brave and hope for the best. It was the middle of the afternoon before she re- ceived a call from any one, and then it was from Valentine Verner. : “Well! well! so you are here yet, are you?’ he growled, as he éntered the store, “Certainly! Who has a better right?” the plucky woman demanded. “I've got an eye that’s not in the habit of closing at every thin dodge—hence, I woe enthuse at all when the stampede took ace.” " “ Humph! perhaps you'll be sorry you didn’t. I don’t tieileve fhe gang will allow a petticoater in the | town.” “It won’t try their nerves, I fancy, if I mind my own business. And besides, I don’t intend to be either wronged or insulted, The first person who offers to put me out of the town, against my ‘will, I will shoot through the heart, and the same sort of a dose is waiting for his éomrades. I’ve taken my stand here, and I'll fight it out on this line if it takes all winter!’’ . Verner looked surprised, for he knew byt little about the spirit and pluck of the young woman. He had supposed that he would have a soft thing in subduing her, and either molding her to his will, or else forcing her to leave Shining Bar. **Oh! talk is cheap,’ he sneered. ‘I fancy three score of men ought to be able to conquer one weak woman, so there’s no use for you to be saucy tome, as your fate rests entirely in my bands, Do you know that I have made up my mind who you are, girl? You are Dora Kisler.” “Tf you think so, you are welcome to your belief. Several other persons have cherished -* pam fancy, n but have got Jeft. Understand, Mr. Valentine Ver- ner, that I am not a bit ‘afraid of you, and if you make any more of your threats in my place, Vl just salivate you right where you stand. And she suddenly shoved a = of formidable six- shooters over the counter at \° He leaped baek with a snarl. “Take care! don’t shoot!” he cried; for, at the muzzle of a pistol, a more arrant Cow never lived than Valentine Verner. ‘ You are too hasty, my dear young woman.” : ‘Well, be that as it may, if you_are not hasty in getting out of my,house, there will be need for an undertaker here, you bet? One, two, three—get /” The fire in her eye warned him that it was death to disobey. 7 wl of rage, he shook his fist at her, and took his departure. . “He will be back again, I'll wager. He's a bad man, and I’m afraid that I've undertaken more than I can handle,” Dora muttered. ‘*But I will stand game to the last!” She went up-stairs, and told of what had happened, and cautioned her to Keep little Ethel very quiet, lest their presence in the house should attract attention. Then she returned to the store, and waited. The afternoon crept away, and shadows began to hover over the town, but they did not lessen her’ anxiety. . She dreaded the darkness, for with it would come peril to her‘and the ones she hoped to conceal. In turning over some cards upon the show-case, she came to one Yankee had written and left there. With feelings better imagined than described, she perused the message, and tears gathered in her eyes, “JT have done wrong to deceive him about my identity,” she murmured. ‘But, God has sent me back my child, and perhaps he will send me my Then I will hope for a new life. Poor earned my gratitude, for he brought me back to life after at- tempting to kill me, and then gave me up after all.”’ Deeper and deeper the gloom increased in the gulch, and with its oncoming increased Dora’s fore- ding, for she was well satisfied that Valentine Ver- ner would not long allow matters to remain as they were, , At last, when darkness settled down in est, Dora saw a number ef he rond-agonts pause ts - t% ie Caek non eae nee an rare = QS TREN oe = p ec my terms!” | me!’’ Dora ans front of her store, as f° waitteg for somébody, or ‘ something. ; ‘ The somebody proved to be Verner, for as goon ag | P he made his ae ene the whole crowd flock into the store, the speculator in ihe lead. Dora stood behind the counter, with a pair of re- i volvers drawn and cocked, ready for use. ms Hi" ‘ There was a pasent expression upon her face, too, a which told that she would stand for her rights, to the ; | bitter end. oe “Well, you see I’m back!’ Verner said with a 2 La sneer, “and I dare say you understand the signifi- rs, cance of my coming.” “Tl see that you were afraid of me, and had to run for reinforcements!"’ Dora replio’ scornfully. . “And I got them, too. onsequently, thei ds nothing for you todo but to come to my terms, “i Either you have got to pack your duds, and leave this town, or marry me, I've been loo for a wife for some time, and don’t know as I cou ake a better selection than yourself, These are emphati- hat is a matter of very slight importance to calmly, but with intense reso- lution. ‘*Ilam not afraid to die, and I as well : die defending myselly 08 to submit to insult at your 4 hands. Reme r t I have got the drop, and bs rl cages some one sick before I get thro with : ey you!” - ‘ ee Verner hesitated whether to give an order to his an followers to chergaen her, or not, for he felt sure ta that she would at him first, and likely kill aoe: him. So that he was literally at ba again, ; Hott “Well, if you won't surrender in one wer, can to make you in another!” he cried, t on his heel, ; and leaving the store, followed by his men. r Dora quickly locked the door after them, and ran “a up-stairs to peer out of the window. ; Gerty and ttle Ethel were huddled im one corner, . ‘*Cheer up!’’ Dora encouraged. “* mistake — a not, there is a good chance for us yet. Ihave 7.’ to be he r= is will stay this time!” ; Tt 4 | From neither the front nor the back window could et she'see anything of the enemy, and sh consult on the best plan of sec their point. Seep So, bidding Gerty to be hopefu back door unlocked. ins On reaching the lower room, to her surprise,sho the neglected door. : fea Fe) their faces showing that they were : sent Valentine Verner off, and it therefore, = = concludéd that they had retired to the to she once more. aos went down-stairs, remembering that she had left wo beheld Yankee and Denver Doll entering through ay, aed 2) With a glad cry, the Sport s forward and ae clasped her to his breast, and this time as ee No onal ; refuse bim, but clung to him affec er 7 “Thank God! we are at last re z Yankeo + ae said. ‘'Is Ethel safe?" 203 2 es gt ‘Yes. She is with Gerty up-stairs.” ay “4 “Then we must make our escape from here at == once." ’ *e 4 3 "1, ee “It is too late now!” Denver Doll cried, “for the a “Then let us all die together, ra little Zthel fall into Val Verneér’s han building is being surrounded!" , Fr al Examination proved this to be correct. Theout- = laws had assembled, en masse, at both ends of 0 shanty, and it was but a few minutes erethecrackle — of flames was heard! : : OF ne eee “By heaven! they have firéd the house!"” Yankee poy cried. ‘It is now surrender or perish by fire!" x dered@was Dora's resolve. : es as PRPs rss “So™Way I!” Denver Doll cried, “But let us not | yet deepair. There may beachance, afterall!” = And her words were prophetic, for suddenly =| shouts and rifie-shots were heard from a Sy ne to which the outlaws nded, we * une “The soldiers! the soldiers!” exclaimed Yankee, bie fas re a 6 in the nick of time."’ ve W; rue. : : Aa” er With a determination f Ms Uncle , y Bee boys advan and the velit of pallets ) away es : the lives of the d radoes like chaff be the Bet wind. Some, by skillful dodging, escaped with i. lives, but they were few. ‘ ia: oly ee When the battle was over—for it was of short sd duration—our friends in the shanty had jg ries se Jt a escape from what before had promised te bea pot a } tomb, and there was great ie err Bom be me xy ite among those who gathered to their proteetion. Fra: 4 ‘ « » a The salts ha coped down onthe Bagulded. e soldiers SWO0O) own on the Seer by Reporter Jones. eer EE a Among the dead were found V; ” vi Sg Lan his daughter Isabel, Monroe Miller, and the. 2 Sa faithless — chief. *¢ > kee Eisler with his wife now Ho? 4 pily in vane en, pe also is Charles ee a on Jones, who is still aspiring to be @ newspaper ie man, 9 te Gerty, Denver Doll’ssister, has married Lieyten- —s_| ant Roberts of the army. , ; ? paths = Denver Doll, with her pard Yakie, is still doing’) valueble detective duty, in the west, and perchance we sball meet her again in other exc’ ecenes..3) © OA Walt Christie has gone out of the de’ tive busi- i ness, apd now handles the razor fora livelihood, you MePariand, has embarked in a paying b > ae peta Sat ean ates eee efforts, is rapidly acquiring a competency, via bel ee Shining Bar is &@ prosperous town, bus there is Bert) little there, of the excitement that there Was pnor eatin Lag ‘ C% to that all-important 20th day of November. — . . ‘ sath. tevacaak &.¢eeipos one a = THE END. aah 1 , - 3 : Ser: ” st y
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BEADLLE’S | HALF-DIME ' LIBRARY. ——— | 1 Deadwood Dick, rar Prwce or THE Koap | 110 The Black Steed of the Prairies, A | 223 Ozark Alf, Kina or THE Mountarm, By By Edward L. Wheeler ) Thrilling Story of Texan Adventure. By Bowen. | Edward Willett. 2 Vellowstone Juck. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. | The Sea-Devil. By Col. P. Ingraham. | 224 Dashing Dick, By Oli Coomes: 3 Kansas King. By Buifalo Bill. The Mad Hunter. By Burton Saxe. 225 Sam Charcoal, by Charles Morris, 4 The Wild-Horsé Wnanters, By Captain Jack Hoyle. By Edward L. Wheeler. | 226 Snoozer, tue Boy Sairp. By KE, L. Wheeler, Mayne Reid and Captam brederick Whittaker. | The Black Schooner, Roger Starbuck. | 227 Dusiy Ba rrell, TRAPPER. By E. Emerson. The Mad Miner. By G. Waldo Browne. | 228 Little Wildfire. By Oll Coomes. 5 Vavabond Joe, THE YouxG WANDERING JEW. The Hussar Captain. Col. P. Ingraham. | 229 Crimsom Kate, By Col. P. Ingraham. By Ol] Coomes. Dathle Number, ets, | Bill BHiddon, Trapper. By ES, Ellis. | Gilt-Edged Dick. By E. L. Wheeler. 23u Whe Yankee Rajah. By C.D. Clark. The Wlying Yankee, By Col. P. Ingraham, Will Somers, THe Boy Derrctive. Morns. | 231 Plucky Phil, ByT, C. Harbaugh. Seth Jones. By Edward §. Ellis: Mustang Sam. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 232 Gold-Dust Dick. By E. L. Wheeler. The Branded Hand, By Frank Dumont. | ¢,. : Big Cinnamon Chip. By Ffdward L. Wheeler. 233 Joe Buck, of Angels, By. A W. Aiken. Phil Mardy, Tie Boss Boy. By C. Morris. | 234 @ld Rocky’s * Boyees,.’ Buckskin Sam, Kiowa Chartey. By T. C. Harbaugh. 235 Shadow Sam, _ By Charles Morris Tippy. Ture Texan. By George Gleason. Bonanza Bill, Mover. By Ed. L. Wheeler, | 236 Apollo Bill, By Edward L. Wheeler, Adveutures of Baron Munchausen. Nat Todd. By EF. 5. Ellis. | The Two Detectives, By A.W. Aiken. Gulliver’s Dravel«, By Dean Swift. The Dumb Spy. By Oll Coomes. Aladdin or, Tre Wonverrc. Lamp. The Sea-Cat. By Captain Fred. Whittaker. Picayune Pete, By Charles Morris, 237 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain 3 or, Robinson Crusoe, (27 Ubustrations.) Wtild-Fire, Boss orrme Roap. By Dumont. | Tre Mysterious Rancngro. By P. Ingraham, Ralph Roy. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. / Sindbad the Sailor, His Seven Voyages. The Phantom Spy. Ey Buffalo Bill. / The Double Daggers, By E. L. Wheeler. The Frontier Angel. By Ydward §. Ellis. The Sea Serpent. By Juan Lewis. Nick o° the Night. By T. C. Harbaugh. Diamond Dirk. By Colonel P. Ingraham. The ng Captain. By Roger Starbuck. Cloven Hoof, By Edward L. Wheeler. 27 Antelope Abe, THE Boy Guipz. Oll Coomes. 28 Buffalo Ben. By Edward L. Wheeler. 29 The Dumb Page. By Capt. F. Whittaker. 30 Roaring Ralph Rockwood, THE REcE- Less RANGER: By Harry St. George. 31 KeenKinife, Prince or THz Prainigs. By Olli Coomes. Bob Woolf. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Ocean Bloodhound. §. W. Pierce. Oregon Sol. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams. Wild ivan. By Edward Li Wheeler. The Boy Clown. By Frank S. Finn. The Hidden Lodge. By T. C. Harbaugh. Ned Wylde, THe Boy Scour. By Texas Jack. Death-Face, tHe Derecrive. By Wheeler. Roving Ben. By J, J. Marshall. \ Lasso Jack. By Oll Coomes, The Phantom Miner. By E. L. Wheeler. Dick we iawn By Capt. Fred. Whittaker. Rattling Hube. By Harry St. George. Old Avalanche. By Edward L. Wheeler. Glass Eye, Tae Great SsHor oF THE WEST. 4 Capt. J. F. C. Adams. Nightingale Nat. By T. C. Harbaugh. Black John, THe Roap-Acent. By Badger. Omaha Oll, By Edward L. Wheeler. Burt ‘Bunker, THe Trapper. C, E, Lasalle. The Boy Rifles. By.Archie C. Irons. The Young Privateer. By H. Cavendish. oee whe FPS Coo: Deadwood Dick's Double. By Wheeler. , ody a rayon motes atv *. PEON mind Detective Bick. By Charles Morris. 239 The Gold-seeker Guide; or, Tae Lost The Golden Hand. By Geo. W. Browne. | MountTarIn. By Captain Mayne Reid. 5 “or utes wanton: By os 8..Ellis. | 240 Cyclone Kit, By Edward L. Wheeler. oss Bob, Tue Kina or THH BooTBLACKS: or, THE PAWNBROKER's Piotr. Ed, L. Wheeler. es} Bt d ateog is. caper. Marden ) OO BS BOS 9 OS RS OO SS et ee et et et et tt et Sure Shot Seth, By Oll Coomes, Captain Paul, By C. Donnie Clark, 242 The Two ‘ Bloods*. By Charles Morris. Mahesiaws Bs. SE IH, be Benner, Ti 243 Whe Disguised Guide. By Oll Coomes. ne Helpless Hand, Capt. Mayne Rei - NA ey «Poe Blonde Bill. By Edward L. Wheeler. . 244 Sierra Sam. By Edward L. Wheeler. 245 Merle, the Middy. By Col. P. Ingraham. 246 GiantGeorge. By Buckskin Sam. Judge Lynch, Jr. By T. C. Harbaugh. Blue Blazes. By Frank Dumont, 247 Old Grizzly and His Pets. By Captain “ Bruin’? Adams, Solid Sam, By “iward L, Wheeler. aadaome arr, ° iy anes Morris. Scar-Face San/, Joomes. 7 2 . Dainty Lance, THE Box Sport. By Badger. | 248 Sierra Sams Secret. By E. L. Wheeler. Cate in hag nig iy Dawerd ie Y,| stape 249 Milo Romer... By Capt. Fred. Whittaker. Silver Star, THE Boy KNIGHT. y Coomes. re Will Wildfire. By Charles Morris, 250 Midshipman Mutineer. By Ingraham. Sharp Sam, .By J. Alexander Patten. 251 Light-house Lige. By J. F. C. Adams, a Game 4 Sais By ~~ Le eee. 252 Dick Dashaway. By Chas. Morris. vance an asso. By Capt. F.Whittaker. | a5 ‘ ’ Basither Paul. By Jos. f. Badcer. Jr. ass Sierra Sam’s Pard,. By BE. 1. Wheeler. Black Bess, WILL ILDFIRE’s Racer; or, 254 The Half Blood, By Edward 8. Ellis. 255 Captain Apollo. By T. C. Harbaugh. [he Sword Hunters. By ¥. Whittaker. 256 Young ee By Capt. Mark Wilton Gold ‘Trigger, Tux Sport. T. C. Harbaugh. 257 The Lost Hunters, By Capt. Adams. Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, | 258 Sierra Sam’s Seven, By E, L. Wheeler. Tue Picken Party. By Edward L. Wheeler. | 259 The Golden Harpoon, By R. Starbuck. be sane Cnpiotmne Po Bal ee 261 Fergus Fearnaught, By Geo. L. Aiken. ‘he Black Giant. . E. Badger, Jr. | 26% r oS thea. : rris New York Nell, .. By 3 L. Wheeler. rm = ee ei Me a Will Wildfire in the Woods, Morris, | ? cadwood Dicks Divide. By Wheeler. Dre OS OS MDaPH me Am SOHIM ME eee ee WHOS SUA WN HOS DAA CN CODHATH WON HOO DUS we ST ST Ot he ne phe ihe ahem thee ihe he the the GO GO GO GO GO GO WINNING AGarnst Opps. By Charles Morris, Miike Mferry. By Charles Morris, Kagle Kit, tH Boy Demon. By @ll Coomes. Fancy Frank of Colorado. Buffalo Bill, | 260 Dare-Devil Dan. By Ol! Coomes. ROKK KOKKoGie kd bbb bbb hWWOWOtwe SOMsED Ch WOWHKOSSs QoikeCwH SSSA Gsake ew The White Buffalo. By C. E. Lasalle. | Little ‘Texas, By Oll Coomes. 264 The Floating Feather, By Ingraham or eeeeersa ks Dy Seve Lv neeer. Dandy Rock’s Pledge. By G.W. Browne. | 265 The Tiger Tamer, By Capt, Whittaker Ned Hazel. By Capt. J. F.C. Adams. Billy Baggage. By Charles Morris. , . , P > Deadly = Eye, THe Unknown Scour; or, Tax | Hickory Harry., By Harry St.George. | 266 Killbar, the Guide. By Ensign Charle Braxpep Broruernoop. By Buffalo Bill. Asa Scott, TH: SreAMBOAT Boy. By Willett. Dudley Warren, (of the Engineer’s Corps.) Nick Whiiiles’ Pei. Capt. J. F. C, Adams, | Deadly Dash. By Jos. BE. Badger, Jr. 267 The Buckskin Detective, By T. C. Deadwood Dicks Eagles. _By Wheeler. Tornado Tom. By T. C. Harbaugh. Harbaugh. ane Be monet ae By On Cosmane, A Trump Card, By Charles Morris. 268 Deadwood Dick's Death Trail, By - .é kee y Harry St. George, Ebony Dan. By Frank Dumont. Edward L. Wheeler The White Indian. Capt. J. F. C. Adams, | . ThunderboltTom. By Harry St. George. | , ‘ ‘ Dandy Hock’s Rival. By GW. Browne. | 269 The Rg Rp har tee Re pee, Bob Rockett, THz Boy Dopa@rr, By Morris. peuxeD. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. Captain Arizona, By Philip 8.Warne. | 270 Blizzard Ben. By Captain Mark Wilton. Toe te Sinewats Urs fg eA 271 The Huge Hunter. By. Edward S. Ellis, No Nick of Nevada, E.L. Wheeler, | 4, old Antik, By Olt Coomes, 272 Minkskin Mike, By Oll Coomes, Bob Rockett, Tae BANK Runner. Morris, | 273 Jumbo Joe. By Edward L. Wheeler. ©The Sea Trailer. By Lieut. H. D. Perry. | 274 Jolly Jim. By Charles Morris. byte Waoke Sa eee atest | 275 Arizona Jack. By Buckskin Sam, (Major The Hidden Hand, By Chas. Morris. Sam 8, Hall.) The Boy Tratlers. By Badger, Jr, 276 Merle Monte’s Cruise. By Ingrehem. Evil Eye, Kino or Carrie THiEveEs; or, THE | 97°77 Denver Doll, By Edward L. Wheeler. VULTURES OF THE Rio Granpk.. By F, Dumont, 278 The Three Trappers} or, Tue Mouxraix 61 Buckhorn Bill. By Edward L. Wheeler. 62 The Shadow Ship. By Vol. P. Ingraham. | 63 The Bed Brotherhood. W. J. Hamilton. | 64 ae Jack. By T. C. Harbaugh. 65 WMurricane Bull. By Jos. KE. Badger, Jr 66 Single Hand. *By W. J. Hamilton. 67 Patent-leather Joe. By 5 S. Warne. 68 Border Robin Hood. By Buffalo Bil. | 69 Geld Rifle. By Edward L. Wheeler. } 70 Old Zip’s Cabin. By Capt. J. F. C-Adams, | 71 Delaware Dick. By Ol! Coomes. 72 Mad Tom Western. By W. J. Hamilton. 73 Deadwood Dick on Deck. By Wheeler. 74 HMawk-éeye Harry. By Oll Coomes. 75 Whe Boy Duelist. By Col. P. Ingraham. 4 76 _— Colt, THE Crow-KiILLer, _B 7 A. W. Aiken. pte ena.’ By Gol. Dette sare Monster. By Major L. W. Carson, 77 Corduroy Charlie. By E. L. Wheeler, Ned Temple, THe Gorper Boy. Harbaugh. | 279 Old Winch, tHe Ririe King. By T, C- 78 Blue Dick. By Captain Mayne Reid. ; Bob Rockett, raz Cracksman. By Morris. Harbaugh, 79 Sol Ginger, GIANT pper, By A. W, Aiken. | 80 Rosebud Rob, By Edward L. Wheeler. 81 Lightning Jo. By Captain J. F.C. Adams. 82 Kit Haretoot. By T. C. Harbaugh. 83 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. By Oll Coomes. | - le le a Mgr i Ting ie fo Were | 195 Deadwood Dick's Dream. By Wheeler. 86 Dandy Hock, By G. Waldo Browne 196 Shadowed, By Charles Morris. 284 The Sea Warauders or, Men z Monts's 87 The Land Pirates By Capt. Mayne Reid 197 Little Grit, te Wi River. By Ingraham. | Pr aa By Colonel Srathibe Yoseakont Ae 88 Photograph Phil. ByE. LWheder. | | 198 Arkansaw. By T, C. Harbaugh. | + iter 4 nm 89 Kalan 1. Steent By Brac bridge Heiman | 199 Featherweight. ‘By Edward Willett. | 285 Denver Doll’s Decoy. By E. L, Wheel ‘ id, we en | 200 The Boy Bedouins. By Whittaker. | 286 Josh, the Boy Venderfoot; or, Ti. } Witp Men or Buzzarp Bar. By Mark Wilton. | 90 The Dread Rider. By G. Waldo Browne. 201 The Black Hills Jezebel, By Wheeler. | Brvau Atihutrus,: “By Bracebridge Hemyng. 203 The Boy Pards,._ By Jos. E, Badger, Jr. | 287 Billy Blue-Eyes, By Col. P. Ingranam, | Buffalo Billy. By Capt. Taylor, U. 8.A. | , Z Captain K it. By Lieut. H. D. Perry,U.S.N, } 281 Denver Doll’s Victory. By Wheeler. 282 The Typo Detective. By Edward Willett. Captain Mask. By Philip 8. Warne. Bufialo Bill’s Bet. By Captain Taylor. | 283 Indian Joe; or, THe WuHITe Spirit or TRE Hints. By Major L. W. Carson. RO OS MAD Ce SUH OS SAAN HON HOODIA eRWNW HOO Ss Hoke ee ee me ee eee ee te [elle oe ts ; ——s ~ ; SCCSCSSBDOH CHM HMasoked hak FFF FFDADARADARAGAMH Goro co pees eoaaaaeoen tate empertentertentertn star a4 | Dandy Darke. By Wm. R. Eyster, | 280 Merle Monte’s Fate, By Col. Ingrabam. | | 91 The Captain of the Oiub; or, Tae Youna 202 Prospect Pete, By Oll Coomes, os paneds J iaers et Aegean = | 204 Gold Plume, tHe Boy Banprrt. Ingraham. 288 Whe Scalp King. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams, 94 Midnight Jack. By T. C. Harhangh. | 205 Deadwood Dicks Doom. te, Wee 289 Jolly Jims Job. By (Charles Morris. 95 ‘The RivalRovers. Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. | aos tee Be. ance ty ir ste ee omnis | 290 Turk, the Ferret. By E. L. Wheeler. BE Watel-Kye, tum Suxpow. By E. 1. Wheeler. | 998 The Boy Hercules. By Oll Comes. | 291 Little Roxfire, ram Boy Sry; or, Orn Caren 98 Robin Hood. . By Prof. Gildersleeve ‘| 209 Fritz, rae Bounn-Boy Detective. Wheeler. | ARBUCKLE, Mouxtaww Detective. By ON 99 The Tiger of Taos. By G. Waldo Browne. | [B readlagly ye mT an 1 ag Pyater, Coomes. nye ear ns ae yee a ral ‘yooked Cale. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 292 Sancho edro. tae Boy Banprr. 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A 2 Dashing Dave. By Charies Morris. Captain Mark Wilton. STRANGE STROKE FoR LrsertTy. By Wheeler. | 101 Jack Harkaway in New York. By | Bracebridge Hemyng. 102 Dick Dead-KEye. By Col. Ingraham. / 103 'The Lion of the Sea. By Col. DelleSara. | tomy By Captain Frederick Whittaker. 5 Captain Bullet. By T. C. Harbaugh. 1 ! I aa Fritz to the Front. By E. L. Wheeler. 293 Red Claw, THe Oxe-Evep TR By 1 294 Dynamite Dan: or, Tar Bowm BLADE 1 | | 4 Wolfeane. THE RopBerR oF THE RHINE. Captain Comstock. | or CooseTrora. By T. C. Harbaugh. wow 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device. By Wheeler. | 716 ——— es en: Sa OF THE REINS. 105 Old Rube, THe Hunter. Capt. H. Holmes. | oy Cen Sie ane ‘ Wheeler kia abecie’ bean tual 106 Old Frosty, Tae Gume. By T. GC. Harbaugh. | ar? Ese Crac ag al ~~ E. L. eo ae, midi cre Bs | . ae, wy 7 Ee ger Tom, THE TEXAN TERROR, Coom > 107 Gno-Byed Sim. By James L. Bowen. 319 Domed: the Duelist,. By P. 8. Warne, The Half-Dime Library is for sale all 108 Daring Davy. By Harry St. George. | 220 Tom Tanner. By Charles Morris. Newsdealers, five vents per copy, or sent: by mail on 220 y . Sah AB 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective. By 221 Sugar Coated Sam. By E, L. Wheeler, receipt. of six certs each. BRADLB & ADAMS, Edward L, Wheeler, 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport. By Ingraham. Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.