Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 285) (1883 01 09)
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hk . | al | Vai Vel i! SS y $2.50 a year. Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y¥., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyrighted In 1883 by BEADLE AND ADAMS, =) le PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, Vol. XI. Nam PP BEING No. 3 OF THE “DENVER DOLL” SERIES. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. AUTHOR OF “ DEADWOOD DICK ” NOVELS, ‘' ROSEBUD ROR” NOVELS, “ GILT-RDGED DICK,” “ BONANZA RINT.” Harrie Bi | BONANZA | Dep ex ooo oo January 9, 1883.
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\ 2 Denver . | Denver Doll's Decoy LITTLE BILL'S BONANZA. Being No. 3 of the “Denver Doll" Series, BY E. L. WHEELER, OF “DEADWOOD DICK ” * ROSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, ETC. _ CHAPTER Ii A VILLAINOUS BARGAIN, ‘SH! Hush your clatter!” : The speaker was a dark-browed, black mus- tached personage, of some forty years or more, whose face showed the scars resulting from sey- eral wounds, and whose general aspect was in no way pleasing. ? He was of heavy build, and dressed in miner’s habiliments, while his belt bristled with wea- AUTHOR NOVELS, The scene was the interior of arude log cabin, against ove of the walls of which the speaker sat tipped back in a chair. His remarks were addressed to a quartette of fellows, eminently as evil-looking as himself, who were congregated around a table wrang- ling over a game of cards, ne of these—a long, powerful-looking ruf- fian—turned a scowling face toward the speaker. “ Reckon ’tain’t your game, Cap!” he growled. **¥ don’t allow no skin game when I’ve got a hand in, an’ ye can bet on that!” “Took out!” the captain cried kt “none of your back change, Muggins, or I'll remind you who’s boss here. {said bush that clatter, and I mean it. I expect visitors to-night, and I want order.” The others exchanged glances, but none of them offered a reply except Muggins: “Tt’s about time you tackled suthin’ to fetch in shekels. ef ye want ter keep the gang to- gether. This bein’ shet up like a rat in a biel aint what it’s cracked up to be,” he grunted, angrily. Maybe you'd rather leave the trap, and fall into the hands of the handsome horse-thief catcher, Big Buckskin,” the captain sneered. ‘You know he’s on our trail, and has sworn, to wipe every mother’s son of us out, for running off his famous stallion, Star Face, He ain’t the only one as wants ter see us. The Murdock Brothers have hag an extensive acquaintance, you know, and Monk Muggins isn’t exactly bold enough to look the law in the face.” . “Pm every bit as brave as you are, Burk Murdock—brave enough, anyhow, that I’m devilish sick 0’ bein’ cooped up here.” “Well, you may have a chance to get out and distinguish yourself, after to-night,” the answered, resuming his pipe, a Fa in bis eyes. *) Ome ha e Murdock Brothers and the man M had, for a long period, made themselves noto ee ous as a band of desperadoes throughout the fa: West, the mining districts of Tdahd, being the scene of most of their a gg or ak There were two of the Murdocks, but the whole party were generally known as the ’ Murdock Brothers, from the fact that where one went the others could generally be found. They were stage robbers, murderers, and horse-thieves, and were wanted’ by the -author- ities for several other pias of criminal of- fense, one of their most relentless foes being ‘a miner and scout known as Big Buckskin. Burk Murdock was ‘well -fitted to take the. feadership. ._He was a man whom nature had evidently created dead to all moral and horest purpose; he was wily and cunning as. a fox in mavy things, while in others he threw off the. and Va cloak of the polished villain, and was rough brutal. a tid ; Jack, his own brother, was his brother, although he- was misdemeanors. He did not have so much e in his heart—was wild and reckless, and was managed pretty much to suit the will of his elder brother. He was some four-and-twenty years of age, and although@hardly gpod-looking, had perhaps. less of the viciousness expressed his counte- nance that his comrades had. 2 “ee The real names of the other two outlaws were Jim Sanders and Hank Hartly, and they were ruffians to the core, serving as tools for Captain Burk to work with. The rendezvous which we find the gang occu- pying was a tumble-doavn log: down in the heart of a deep mountain-gulch, which was densely wdoded with fir-pines. A person unacquainted with the fact could have passed within a dozen yards of the cabin, without suspecting the existence of such a habi- tation. It was for this reason that the Murdocks had lately taken possession of it, when dodging a bunt that was being made for them, led by Biz | Buckskin, ‘* Who are these visitors?” Muggins demanded, ang played his eards, and finally threw up his no “ An old cove frum Boise City—an’ would ye believe it, he’s a parson, they say! Got a note from Red Eagle, by the carrier-pigeon, sayin’ as how the old gent wanted a job did, an’ was willin’ ter slap up t @ swag liberally.” ‘Some pious-faced detective, Tl bet!” *““No, I reckon not, or Red Eagle wouldn’t ’’ recommended him, The Injuu never's got us inter trouble yet, and he’s sent us many a pointer. I can read the chap, as soon as the red-skin fetches him.” “Will they come alone?” “T reckon so. Hello!” , The exclamation was caused by a heavy rap upon the door. : Every man was upon bis feet in an instant, and while the captain stepped toward the door, with a revolver in his grasp, the others glided behind a curtain that divided off a portion of the room. 3 Without apparent trepidation, Captain Burk opened the doorand peered out. “Who's thar?” he demanded, gruffly. ‘George Washington Gum, at your sarvice!” a cracked, wheezy voice replied, and at the same time the speaker pushed forward into the cabin. Murdock closed and barred the door, and then He saw before . you—costs nothing to read the firsé four nes.” : “Don’t want it,” the captain growled. “TI get’my stamps slittin’ weazands!” “ Exactly! This work will be of incalculable value to you, It isa complete and systematic treatise On the art of-disembodying spirits with quickness and safety, including several notes compiled from distinguished executioners.” “Git out! Don’t want it!” ~~ “No?, Well, I have another book on How to and | _ _ | Make Love!” | “Bah! Don’t want it!” ; . “Do you wanta cook book?” — ‘i “No! i? ~ : “ \ “Nor a Materia Medica—a complete doctor and drug store all in one?” “No! * An! but I have it now—a book of Oscar Wilde’s poems. You greatly resemble Oscar!” “TJ don't want none of your books, I say. Clear out of bere!” . ‘But, hold on! It just occurs to me» where I can tickle you ina tender spot. I have a neat little book here on farming, by Greeley. Just the thing for aman who contemplates growing up with this beautiful country !” “No! no! no!” the cap roared. “If I but it recoiled ten mile, while I went home com- plainiw’ about the size of the musketoes that season. Fell into a red-hot blast furnace, once, and put the fire out just to pay up a grudge I had against the boss molder. Been ran over by several train of cars, and was the only man to escape alive,” ¢ “You are the most infamous liar of liars I ever met!’ Murdock growled. ‘You have plenty of gab, no. doubt, but I'll guarantee I can take some of thé conceit out of you. Boys!” The four outlaws advanced from behind the curtain, with drawn revolvers, and formed in line, in front of the lean individual, who nodded with a supremely ludicrous grin. ° ; “How are you génts? Glad to meet you. My name is Gum. | have the honor of repre- | senting a number of prominent book publisbing firms, in the East, whose most. popular works i am introducing. I have an interesting book here, entitled ‘How to Live Forever,’ Ilknow it is just what you want.” The brothers Murdock did not reply, bat eyed the canvasser with grim and suspicious glances. Captain Burk made the answer: “Dye see them fellers, young man?” he de- manded, ‘ Well, they’re my brothers, an’ four as bad customers as walk in boots. Now, d’ye know. what we’re goin’ to do?” “ Purchase this beautiful little work I have here, entitled ‘How to Escape Justice’!” Gum said, with a bright expression of anticipation, «Not by a cussed sight. D’ye know what an outlaw is?” “You bet! I have a beautiful little biography of some of the more prominent outlaws of the century !” “Curse your books! We are outlaws, ef yo want to know it, and this is our trap. To let you escape would be too dangerous, and there- fore there remains but one thing else to do, We've got to kill you. How do you like that?” “Nov at all. If is important that I should live, as my work is of vital importance te tho reading and. a ty world. Let me depart, and I'll vow I won’t never tell on ye.” “Ho! ho! That would be sort of @ snap, wouldn’t it? But, you see, 1 am not doing business that way. ‘This hyar’s a partnership concern o’ ourn, and if you want to put in five thousand dollars, and become one of us, we'll ve yeashow fer your life. Otherwise you aye but five minutes to live!” “Five thousand dollars? Why, bless your dear heart, I haven’t seen five thousand dollars in twenty years! My whole cash assets is ten big old-fashioned coppers!” “Search the man!” the captain ordered. _The book-agent was forced to throw up his ; ms, and he was thoroughly searched. 4 The canvassing samples of a number of differ- ls pe were found, in addition to his steck in ; ie of cash, consisting of ten old-fashioned | Coppers, | Warnes all. ere was nothing more to show that he was aught different frem what he claimed to be. tain Murdock appeared to be disappoint- ed. He had suspected that the book-agent was a detective, but the failure to discover any evi- denes of such a fact seemed to annoy him. “¢ Well, it don’t matter, anyhow,” he grewied. “You've got to die, and so getready. You have five minutes in which to say your prayers. Boys, when I say ‘Ready,’ blow his gizzard out! j ‘ We ae bse wane Le proce is not hard to sa no ee S ier aps camé upon the Aor at that instant. bs The taps, however, caused the captain te start and glare down upon the book agent. «Get you quietly behind yonder eurtain!” he bint and if you utter so mueh asa sound while ’'m gone T'll send the boys in to cut your ‘heart out!’ y Evidently glad to egcape punishment, the man of Fan plided to the cover with alacrity. Captain Murdock then advanced te the door and called out: ‘* Who's there?” uf Red Eagle,” was the answer, in a guttural me. . ‘Give the password, then.” ‘Pigeon carries news,” came back. The captain then opened the deor and admait- ted a stalwart young savage, who wes in turn followed by two other persons. 4 |
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—_—> The red-skin was tall and straight as an ar- row, and was rather handsome, his face and eyes giving expression of more than ordinary Indian intelligence, Of his companions, ons was an elderly man and the other a young lady. The former was apparently fifty years of age, and was a chubby little smooth-faced, gray- haired man of decidedly clerical aspect. The young woman looked to be about four- and-twenty years of age, and was exceedingly pretty, both in face and form, Hers was a brunette complexion, with deep, liquid black eyes, hair to match, and teeth of the pearliest type, which gleamed from between a tempting pair of lips. Both she and the gentleman were plainly but vichly attired, and evidently occupied a higher station in life than those they had come so visit. At Burk Murdock’s request they became seated, The outlaw then turned to Red Eagle. “Well, Injun, who are these people?” he de- anded. ‘‘The White Chief received the message?” “ Yes.” “This is the pale-face,” and the red-skin indi- cated the clerical party. To him Murdock then turned. “ Well, sir, what can I do for you?” he asked. “ My friend made known to me your desire to see me, but did not state your errand.” “Likely, because I gove him no authority to do so,” the clerical party declared. ‘I am the Reverend Jubal Andre, of Boise—not a regular practitioner of ministry, buf an exhorter and revivalist,” ' “Ves, you look it!” the captain said, with a smirk. ‘‘Reckon ye won’t make much of a headway conyertin’ this gang.” “‘Tcame not for such a purpose. "Tis truly said that every person must sin occasionally, as a case of necessity, and I believe it. There are times in the life of every man when itis a vir- tue to protect himself, and that is why I am here. ‘You are what are known as the Murdock Brothers?” “Exactly.” “T have frequently heard it svid that you were none too scrupulous how you made your money as long as you made it?” “The repert' does us proud,” Burk Murdock assured, ‘* When we see the swag ready, we ain’t afeard to work nor ain’t choosers 0’ the sort 0’ job.” “Very well; [have a case which T am dis- posed to place in your charge. And there is good money to back it. Let me relate it, and you will then see that Tam not sinning, even though a divine, in protecting myself. Eleven years ago, when but a child of fifteen, my daughter Agnes, here, was enticed into mar- viage with a worthless, roving vagabond, named Joseph Wilton. I was avin at the time, but the marriage was rendered legal, from the fact that my wife, since deceased, gave her sanction. ‘* As soon as I learned of the matter I caused @ separation, by having Wilton arrested and sentenced to eight years for manslaughter, in an eastern prison, although it cost me much to pro- cure his conviction. “His time expired three ears ago, and I have learned that he is back in the West again. Being 4 desperate character, my life is in, jeopardy, and itis but a hamane precaution, you know, that I should look out for myself, * “Then, a m™ in, there are other reasons why I should have him disposed of. Shoruly after the separation my ehild fell heir to an immense landed estate in Texas, which has since so great- ly improved in value that it is advisable to sell it. This she cannot do until Wilton joins in giving a deed. Nor is this all. é “A distant titled relative of mine, Sir Royal Rignold, desires my daughter’s hand in mar- riage, and a match has been arranged. Of course this marriage cannot be consummated until Wilton is put out of the way.” y “Well, d’ye want his throat cut?’ Captain Burk demanded. . Fi ‘“‘ We are not particular what happens to him, as long as he never turns up, nor any evidences of a former marriage. There you have it ina nutshell.” “Dunno!” the outlaw muttered. ‘ Hey to think "bout this’ere matter. Might not pay. Your gal got a certificate?” “No! but Wilton has. He used to carry it in a left inside pocket of bis vest. That destroyed, but one evidence of the marriage remains.” “What is it?” “A child, some ten years of age now, which resulted from the union, This was taken away, and, as we supposed, died in a foundling bos- id Denver Doll’s Decoy. pital; but recently we received a letter from a woman to whom we had intrusted it, that the child was alive and well, and traveling with a detective through the West.” ‘**Humph! d’ye suppose ['m going to search all over the West for one kid!” Murdock de- manded. ‘“ You’re mistakenif youdo. Whar’s the other feller?” ‘He is somewhere’s in this part of Idaho. He does not go under his Own name now, but is known as Big Buckskin!” Murdock uttered an exclamation! “Pve heard of the fellow!” he said. *‘He’s a hard customer to undertake to corral. What's your best figures for the job?” The clerical raseal scratched his head a mo- ment, and then answered: ‘Well, since there is a prospect that you can do the work within a reasonably sbort length of ‘time, I'll give you and your men each ‘ne dol- lar a day until the job is finished, within one month!’ Not only did the captain burst out into a roar of laughter, but his men also joined in chorus. ‘Your liberality is something terrible to con- template!” Murdock declared. ‘ But, notwith- standing its magnitude, it does not appeal to our greed for gold. We gentlemen of leisure never enter into a speculation unless we foresee a rea- sonable profit.” ‘But, surely, that is a reasonable sum. Look at the men that have no employment what- ever.” “Can't help that, Pious pilgrims kin afford to be poor. e rascals bey got to save up cash with which to purchase fire protectors for the hereafter. Savy? The least that we can tackle your job for is a thousand dollars, spot cash!” Jubal Andre put up his hands in horror. “Impossible! I have not so much in the world!” he gasped. “You lie!” Murdock replied. tT happen to be acquainted up in Boise, and you’re worth ten thousand in stock of the Clipper mine alone. So don’t add falsehood to your other reverend sins.” Andre did not answer for a moment, but ex changed glances with his daughter, as if ques- tioning her what he should say. “The fact of thé case is,” the captain went on, ‘‘I ain’t very particular about undertakin’ the job, anyhow. My opinion o’ you is, that you're a reg’ lar old shyster what couldn’t be trusted out 0’ sight. I’ve got kind of an achin’ in my left lung that I could make more money by actin’ square, fer onc’t, an’ sidin’ in wi’ the pe a tryin’ to knock under—Big Buck- skim! The parson looked decidedly nervous at this. **Oh! no! aye 0 are very wrong. I am a man of honor and standard reputation. I don’t want you to think Tam stingy, and so I’ll give you a thousand now, and when you finish the job, and give me the certificate, together with proof that Joe Wilton is forever silenced, Vil give you another thousand. It is understood, however, that if you can find the boy, you'll go for him also!” “All right, We'll call it a bargain, Ill lay for Big Buckskin at once. Whack over your ducats.” ‘ From an inner pocket, the reverend scoundrel extracted a rather lean wallet, and produced from it several bills, which he carefully counted over, and then handed to the desperado leader. “There is a thousand dollars. Tt is a big sum, but I will not begrudge it, nor as much more, if you perform your part of the compact pina sg “You can depend on my fixing the matter to your satisfaction as soon as ITc¢an run the cuss down,” Burk Murdock growled, as he ungra- ciously shoved the money. down into his pocket. “‘We’ve a grudge to wipe out on bim ourselves—so we may’s well combine’ bizness with pleasure, Any peculiar mark on the kid?” _ “Yes. Upon’his right arm, above the elbow, is a birth mark which at the time we last saw him, almost accurately resembled an owl!” ‘So it’s a boy, eh? What's the name?” “William.” “Does Big Buckskin know of the existence of such a boy?” “Possibly, though I anr not certain.” “Well, you can gO now. Reckon I can get along with what information vou’ve given me. When I have anything particular to report, I will call upon you.” The dismissal was sce HEME and accord- ingly the Andres and Red Kagle took their de- rture, ’ When they were gone, Murdock ordered G. Washington Gum to advance from his conceal- ment bebind the curtain. a — 3 He did not obey, and a hasty examination was made, when it was found that the worthy and imperishable book-agent had effected his escape, through a rear door, which, by some mistake, had been Jeft unlocked, CHAPTER JT: BILL'S BONANZA AND THE WHITE HATRED GUEST. Over a range of shurpaud rigged monntains, beyond the dismal place where the brothers Murdock kept their rendezvous, was ‘another guich, fully as rough and wild os its neighbor, but not timbered to any particular degree, ex- cept with scattering shrubs and serub pines. A little stream of water cut a serpentine course through the gulch, and made the scene look a little less dreary than it would otherwise have been, as did also a stage trail, that wes probably not used constantly, ay grass grew in the road, Nevertheless, the trail ran direct south to Boise City from a cluster of mining towns a hundred miles north, aud had a bi-weekly stage each way. At the point where we wish to fasten the at- tention, the gulch was vot quite half a mile wide, including the raise or mountain foot- slope, but the scenery was surpassingly grand, the hoary peaks rising to the right and left with colossal dignity, aud bearing very litte foliage or forest except now and then a scatter ing patch, The bottom of the gulch was of a sandy for- mation, yet strewn’ with a plentitude of huge bowlders, Near the bank of the stream stood a service- able shanty, built partly of slabs and partly of logs, t had no particularly noticeable characteris- tic; it was one just like hundreds which could be found through the far West. — Over the door a creaking, rudely Ie a sign was suspended, which bore the some’ t nove inscription: nf “ LITTLE BILL'S BONANZA, “We. Berar, Proprimeron.” If meant for a hotel, it was certainly set down in rather an odd’ place, for Bill’s Bonanza only hada porceies of two persons, and they were little Bethel and his fearless patron and partner, Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. Roaming through the Northwest, the pecu- liarly-matched pair had halted for a night’s rest, where the shanty now stood; and, while the dashing young detective ‘was engaged in roasting some venison, Little Bill had picked up a stone to hurl at a vulture, which was com- wider. Before saree it, however, the glitter of the firelight upon it had attracted his attention and subsequent ‘examination proved that he held in his hand a nugget of gold about Me reira Delipater’ uey" sodoped: inten ‘ rf a a J a bonanza, sure’s ‘a tork lay tele! Look hyar, wull ye! Ain't that a ty?” From that discovery sprung ‘the fact! that there was gold in the gulch, anu DoW ar@'Little Bill agreed that it would be” el re name the new strike Little Bill's Bona a, phich was ges done, and the first habifation was erected, " . Fearful that their rich claim would attract unwelcome crowds to the place, the pafttners used the precaution of working the placers only when they ‘were ine of not being dis- cowerec , which was generally in the earlier part of each day. ’ Their shanty, however, attracted not a@ littlc attention from the stagers who , and'once passed the stage had halted ee the solicitation of a speculator, who desiréd to know what the two were doing in that unproductive region. Ready always, Denver Doll turned sus- picion by pointing to a number of bear and other fur bearing skins, which were tacked up against the shanty to cure. 4 “Pars aire thicker nor fleas‘on a dog!” she observed. “Catch one nigh every night.” . “Humpb! didn’t know but you'd struck gold!” was the gruff reply, after which the stage rolled on. . : : Subsequently the stage dashed through Litt!e Bill’s Bonanza, without deigning to ven ex- cept when Denver Doll occasionally boarded ir, for a trip to Boise City. rity Up to the time we reintroduce them to (le reader, Doll and Little Bill had occupied their elaim two months, and had made a formal pur- chase of one hundred acres of the gulch bottom from the Government, in order to protect them- selves from invasion, Sooner or later it a 2. PIN a 5 oe -2 2 rains watching them from 4 neighboring ~ .
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ember rensn fora anieyheae weer? down aa come, as they were well aware, and it was best to be prepared, At last, one evening as they were sitting in the mellow moonlignt in frontof the shanty, engaged in weighing what dust they had panned out that day, they were interrupted by the ap- proach from up the gulch of a horseman. As he drew near, Denver Doll was able to make out that he was an equestrian of decidedly cavalier bearing, and was mounted upon a horse of thorough mettle and exceeding beauty. As he finally drew rein before the sbanty, she was better able to inventory him, and perceived | that he was a well Renee inan, of ripe old age, the only physical defect noticeable being a painful hump on bis back. His hair was worn long over his shoulders, | £ and was snowy white. A sweeping beard and mustache to match ornamented the better por- tion of his face, and gave him at once a strik- ing and reverential appearance. His attire, however, was well worn and torn. | He tipped his sombrero politely as he drew | rein, and cleared his throat with an ‘ ahem!” *TDxeuse me, please,” he said, ‘‘ but might I trouble you by asking how far it is from here to Boise City” “A vight good day’s journey,” Denver Doll replied. ‘And are there no camps between here and there, young lady?’ he inquired, with a keen yaze. * None, until you get within about ten miles of | Jsoise,” Denver Doll replied. * Then, if you’ve no objections, Tl camp down | herve by your shanty and rest until daybreak, for j have ridden long an’ far. Should you have nuy accommodations to offer in the way of re- tveshments, victuals, or a blanket, they will be i »ankfully received and paid for.” * You are welcome to wh t we have, though it ain’’ much,” Doll responded, perceiving at ence that he was a man of good breeding, even | ‘Bill, you can cut | the gentleman some bear steak and a piece of | if he was poorly dressed. corn cake and get him atin eupfal of ale.” The traveler looked his gratitude at this, and, after dismounting and picketing his borse out to graze, be accepted a seat on a rustic bench near the cabin door. ‘Yes, I’ve traveled Jong and far, and travel tells upon me as the years roll by. A snug and pleasant little home you appear to have here, young lady.” “ Yos—we call it ae Rills pig after my young tner. Not muc! a bonauza, you know, vntit just suited us for a name.” ‘“ May Ll inquire your name?” “T reckon so. About the only name I’ve borne for years is Denver Doll. y companion / here is Little Bill Bethel, and we generally camp down together, Your name is— “David Raymond. Outin the West I have xained the nom de plume of Old Prowler, from fact that I am always prowling about. But Tallow my days for prowling are about at an end. I'm getting old and crippled up, and be- i eka ee tee pass remainder of my days in PE srords on words, spoken in rather a remorseful tone, touched a sympathetic chord in Denver Doll's nature, and she felt drawn toward him more than she had ever felt toward any other stran- ger. ‘* Your life has not been ye ory unruffled, 1 judge,” she said, as she finished tying up a pouch of gold-cust, “You speak aright, young lady, Although wealth has been the least of my wants, my lite has not been without its bitter sw cet. tective, [came to this country on a mission of importance, and I can never go back to England until that mission is fulfilled. Probably I shall live and die here.” “Indeed! never despair. ‘what a day may bring forth. Are you search- for some one?” “Yes, dear. It is the old, old story—a rich Jord has an only son whom he idolizes, but who is a wild scapegrace, and in early youth escapes to America, to be lost, probably, forever. The blow nearly distracts the father, and he disap- | years, with evidences left behind to show that he has committed suicide. Accordingly, the next of kin, an unprincipled young scoundrel, steps inand takes possession of the estates, with noo etooppose hin. A detective, with a Jittle of bad liking for him, forms a resolution to bunt up the lost heir and displace the usurper. That wasl. [I’ve made a strong attempt, but, alas! muy success has not been wonderfully Levee I am now in possession of no more knowl«dge than I bad when f started.” Asa de- | There is no telling | Denver Doll's Decoy. “Tt am sorry to hear that,” Doll returned. * America is a large place to canvass in search of one man, however. By the way, you had better tarry at our camp a few days and rest, In the mean time something may turn up.” **T believe I will accept your kind invitation, young lady, for your abode seems cheerful, as | compared with some places | have encountered. | And if I can be of any service to you as a bunt- er you can command me. I’m getting rather old and shaky, but I ean still make a flying bird feel sick,” “Very well. You can take charge of keep- ing the larder supplied,” Doll said. ‘It will | give Bill and I more time to work our little pri- vate mining snep.” By this time Little Bill had appeared with a plate full of tempting edibles. “ Heer yer aive, grandpap!” he sung out, mer- rily. “Enuff fodder tew jatten a buzzard on. Tell ye, me an’ Dollbaby lives high since we went in snucks together.” “Thank you, my little man, thank you! T shall not soon forget your kindness. This is the | most tempting repast I have encountered for days.” “So? Well, neow, when a feller hain’t had a square meal fer a couple o’ weeks it do tickle his liver to ketch on to a snep like this. Know how it is myself, bet you! Bin so hungry | a’ready that I had to eat my own shoes fer beefsteak, but they were so tough that it took a | hull day to get a squar’ meal.” ; | © There, Bill, that will do,” Doll interrupted, | reprovingly. *‘If you must tell a story, make it half-way reasonable.” ‘* W’at’s ther use, when truth is stranger than fiction?’ William protested, ‘* It don’t cost no more fer a fire-cracker than it does for a squib!” “That remains to be told, hereafter, Bill. Always aim to keep to the truth, and you will not have oveasion to fire off even squibs.” By this time Old Prowler had dispatched the meal, and then lit his pipe. “‘Ts’pose you’ve never heard of a person named Joe Wilton, bave you?” he said, after a few minutes of reflection. “It ain’t a common name, yet you might have heard of it.” ‘*T may possibly have heard of such a name, but cannot remember exactly.” “Humph! it’s likely not. Did you ever meet a person named Jubal Andre?” ‘Jubal Andre!” Doll exclaimed, thought- fully. ‘‘1t strikes ~ e that the name sounds fa- miliar, Let me see!” She reflected for several minutes and then took a note-book from her pocket and consulted t. “Ah, yes! Isee. I have it here, in shape of a notice received trom another detective. ‘ Ju- bal Andre, of Boise City, Idaho, Fix an eye on him and learn what kind of stuff he shoves.’” “Hat the very man, I'll wager!” Old Prowler muttered. ‘‘ I mnstsee him soon. He may be able to give me some information. So you are a detective, eh, as well as a miner” For answer Denver Doll exhibited her badge. Prowler nodded understandingly. “Tshould estimate you as one well fitted for the calling,” be said. ‘Later I may unfold more to you. but for the present let what I have told you suffice. Feeling tired, I belicve I will turn in for the night,” But the nppeeuarice of a new comer upon the scene just then caused him to change bis mind. CHAPTER III, SAL SLAP, AND A TRANSFORMATION. | WHEN first discovered, this new-comer was in | the act of reining in a superannuated bwrro, near at hand, upon the back of which she was | mounted. | Her approach had been so noiseless, that she had not n observed until she was within a few yards of the shanty door. She was a tall, brawny, raw-boned woman, | of evident great muscular strength and endur- | ance with a pinched, homely, vinegar-face, | which told in i every lineament of a soured, | ugly disposition. | @ nose was fiery red, upon the end, and her | mouth exposed only a pair of protruding teeth, disagreeable to behold. Her eyes were large and glaring, in their glance, and her gray hair was matted and unkempt. A flaring red dress, poke bonnet and cowhide shoes, fixed her out in the way of i pol,» a | parel, and she was armed with a dubious look- } | ing umbrella and formidable horse-pistol. | © Ffello, thar!” she sung out, as she brought | the sorrowful looking burro to a stand-still. | ‘*Whar’s ther orstler of this ’owtel, sissy? Trot bim out heer quicker’n scat, to take charge , 0 my Arabian!” ES ne a et Whereupon she dismounted, and advanced, umbrella in band. “We don’t employ cn ostler, nor is this = hotel!” Denver Doll replied, not fanecying the woman. “What! no ’owtel—io ostler?” the new ar- rival screeched, angrily. ‘‘ What kind uv « place is this, anyhow?” “It’s a lunertick ’sylum. Want ter jine:” piped out little Bill, from the doorway. f ‘* Ye dratted imperdent snipe. Vil learn ye better manners than ter insult me!” sereamed the termagant, making a leap for Bill, with the evident intention of giving him an initiatory mauling. But, Denver Doll leaped quickly to her feet, and pushed her back. ‘Not so fast, posy !? she said, ealmly, but withsternness. ‘‘ Don’t be quite so fresh around. here. Who are you, and what do you want?” And Doll shoved a self-cocker in front of the strange woman’s face. “Who am I?—what do I want, you sassy minx? Ob! Jerimity! ’ve» mighty notion to snatch ye bald-headed fer yer imperdence. I'm old Sal Slap, I am, an’ J’m a screamer, you bet! I'm ther ugliest critter that ever stood up fer woman’s rights, an’ kin lick ther best ten galoots that ever swallered p’izen. Every one’s afeard o’ me, fer I’m a terror from the word go. Used ter kept ther saloon up at Owl Forks, whar my repertation stands emblazon on ther annals 0” hist’ry, as the furst woman who ever survived six days in the town. Fight? Well, neow, if ye’ve got any stock around hyar, jest poke’m up ter tackle me.” “Luckily we bave no fighting characters around this place, Mrs. Slap, and you'll have to seek other fields for the gratification of your pugilistic propensities,” Doll retorted, grimly. ‘“Thar’s a town t’other side o’ the mountains where you might work up something of a scare, but you can’t do it here?” ‘Oh! bo! ho! ho! I cawt, hey!” the gentle girl from Owl Forks cried, evidently astonished “So ye ain’t afeard 0’ mef” ‘‘Not in the least. It would take even # pendagmes: wild-cat than you to scare yours truly! ‘But I'm a screamer—a terror—a regular toarin’ python, whose biteis p’izen, and hug is ten times worse nor that uv a grizzly !” “Can't help that!” Doll replied, calmly, “You can scream your head off, but it won't have any effect in this camp. About: the pret tiest thing you can do is to mount your Arabia and seek some more congenial climate.” “Whoopy! nary a time! I kim right down hyer to Jocate, and heer Pm goin’ bdo og ” she declared, with a flourish of ber umbrella. “ Vw goin’ ter start an ’owtel w’at is a ’owtel, an” don't ye fergit it, nuther.” “You'll have to locate several hundred rods up or down the gulch then, for I own the bot- tom hereabouts, and have got the papers tv show for it!” Doll retorted. “Oh! ye hev, hev ye? Neow don’t ye be uite sosmart, I'm goin’ ter build my shebang jest whar I please, an’ hev got the jinglers to pay fera site. Don’t ask no odds uv anybody do Sal Slap, the screamer. See thet tree, over yander? That’s where I’m goin’ to erect the Guzzler’s gir i: And with this declaration, Mrs, Slap seized the rein of her burro, and strode pompously away to the spot indicated. p Shortly afterward, she had a camp - fire started, and was seen bustling about preparing an evening meal. Denver Doll watched her flitting figure, with a doubtful gaze. } “She seems to mean business!” she muttered. “What do you think of her, Prowler?” “She beats my time!” the old man said, with a shake of the head, ‘‘She is evidently a hari customer to deal with!” “And so she is, Her pedigree isnot unknown tome. She used tokeep a rum-hole on at Owl Forks, where the worst roughs in the West were wont tocongregate, and fight, drink and gam- ble. The old woman is said to have committed more than one murder and robbery, and she spoke the truth, when she said that ’most every one was afraid of her. I don’t like the idea of her locating here, but don’t see how I am going to help myself.” s “T propose we give her the bounce!” Little a ut in. “Takes me to talk turkey to sech e her. “She would scalp you at sight!” DoJ] laughed. “Bet she wouldn't! I'll bug her an’ plague her ’til she'll git ravin’—then, if she tries @ny shenannigun, [ll wing her. Blamed ef she wasn’t goin’ to whale me wi’ tke “bril!”’
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ns “About the only thing to do is to come to some terms with her, and let her remain, I should judge!” Old Prowler remarked. ‘It might prove more profitable to your interests to keep on the right side of ber.” On careful reflection, Doll came to the same conclusion, She was a rough aud unruly customer. and her enmity was not to be despised, for should she be forced to quit the claim, there could be little doubt but what sbe would return with ifficient backing to reinstate herself. The next morning, while Doll was preparing | breakfast, Sal Slap poked her hesd in at the door, * Well?’ she demanded, buildin’ lot over yonder?” *On one condition!’ Doll responded, survey - ing her sharply, ‘* that is, that you will endeavor to protect my interests by not setting any one up to usurp my rights to the land in this portion | of the guleh!” ** Agreed!” Sal replied. a tough old screamer!” “Then you can have sufficient building room for a thousand dollars!” “Cheap enuff!” Sal declared, producing a sack of coin, and counting out gold pieces. ‘Lo save trouble, jest let me give you a piece o’ advice. Go to work an’ divide off your claim into small lots, an’ sell °em off as fast as ye can. Ye'll make more’n though ye try to hang onter the caboodle,.” And so it proved. The next day a party of speculators entered the gulch, and Doll dixposed of ten lots fora thousand dollars each, and still had half a dozen left, beside the one occupied by their shanty. This made her and Little Bill feel quite rich, and the latter took a trip to Boise City to bank their wealth. In another week a great change bad come over Little Bill’s Bonanza. All of the lots had been sold off to advantage; the gulch swarmed with strangers; hundreds of teams were en- gaged in hauling logs, lumber and provisions: shanties, cabins and marquees were going up in every direction, while the bustle and excitement were unprecedented. Old Sal Slap had imported a gang of ruffians, and her ‘‘ Guzzler’s Glory,” was up and in full operation before the end of the first week after her arrival, the “grand opening” being cele- brated by a free fight, during which two men were killed. Anticipating the rush to the new ‘‘strike,” Doll and Bill had added a large addition to oe shanty, and opened it us the Bonanza otel. “Tm squar’, ef Iam Thus sprung up, like magic, the young city, and people flocked in from the adjacent mining regions to “‘ make or break.” "he same heterogeneous class that populates all miving excitements came to Bill’s Bonanza, and within two weeks the camp was literally red hot, and reared its head aloft with due importance, i he gulch panned out well even beyond Denver Doll’s claims, and the rock of the moun- tain sides was found to be impregnated profit- ably with both gold and silver, This only added fuel to the fire of enthusiasm, and the excitement waged wild. Every stage —for they now ran daily—came in Jaden with humanity, and any sort of eating or sleeping place was at a premium. ‘ One evening the stage brought in an extra load, and Taviled it in front of the Bonanza, which had already assumed its rank as the lead- ing hotel—in prices, it may be added, as well as popularity. : Among the passengers was a man who must at once have attracted attention anywhere, for in appearance he bordered somewhat upon the extraordinary. He was fully six feet in hight, «nd as well proportioned as he was tall: his figure nevertheless showing evidences of both strength, endurance, and the litheness of great agility. In face he was strikingly handsome, after a noble, manly way. his features being well molded and ‘bronzed by exposure to the sun. His mouth, shaded by a dashing mustache, was tirm yet pleasant in ifs habitual expression; his eyes were dark and piercing in their glance; bis hair was of a dark brown color, and fell in a wave over his shoulders, half-way to the belt. He also wore a narrow goatee, and in number of years looked to be about thirty-five, though he was possibly younger. He was dressed in a half-frontier costume, coat of corduroy breeches, thrust into a pair of handsome top-boots, and met at the goin’ to sell me a | Denver Doll’s Decoy. Besides the shirt, he wore a fancifully- hunting throat, beaded and embroidered buckskin shirt and a jaunty sombrero. His belt contained a pair of handsomely- mounted six-shooters and a bunting-knife, while in his hand be carried a Winchester rifle that was : ully equal to his belt weapons, in point of finish. Taken as a whole be was a handsome, dashing map, whom few could look upon but to admire, and whom none could pass without taking a | second look at. After leaving the stage be made his way into the office of the hotel, with the evident inten- tion of securing accommodations. Very likely he would have failed, but Denver | Doll, in person, presided behind the counter, and waist by a white flannel shirt, open at the ' her eyes had rested upon the sport from the moment be entered the door, She was a critic of good looks, so far as they appertained to the masculine gender, and she at once pronounced the new arrival a very Adonis. ‘“Can I secure board and a private room here, miss?’ he asked, as he approached the ; counter, “1 will see,” Doll said, referring to the regis- ter. ‘‘We are full up to the roof every day since the excitement began. I have but one vacant room, and that bas two beds in it.” ‘Well, if you can do no better, I suppose I shall have to take up with that, providing you don’t put an objectionable party in with me.” “Very well, I will look out that you get at least a sober and honest room-mate. Terms are five dollars a day, sir.” ‘*'Take a week’s board out of that, then,” and throwing down a fifty-dollar bill, he proceeded to write his name. Doll gave him his change, and then looked at the name. *“ Big Buckskin, eh?’ sbe said, in surprise. “Indeed, I fee] honored to have you as a guest, and will see that vou get the best the house af- fords!” ‘You know me, then?” he interrogated, “ Yes—by reputation, as a bold and daring scout and detective. You mey also have heard of Denver Doll.” “To be sure I have, and Lam pleased to mest you. Thought Ud drop oyer this way to see if any devil ry needed a check, but if you are here [ shall find but little to do,” ‘* Be not sure of that; there is plenty for both to attend to. If you will wait a moment, | will call Billy, who will show you to your room.” She returned « moment later, accompanied by Little Bill, who showed the sport to the room assigned bim. As they went wp-stairs, two men, who had been unobserved watchers from the veranda of the hotel, turned away an? walked down the gulch, for street there was none, owing to the Bs drome in the location of the houses. These men were two of the Murdock bro- | thers, Jack and Burk, both disguised with false beards. Yes, thet was Big Buckskin,” the captain said, ‘‘and we'fe in Thick: Rather thought be couldn’t keep away from this excitement, All we've got to do now is to pop him over at lei- sure.” ‘How are you going to work the job?’ Jack Murdock demanded, ‘‘ This out-and-out murder business is getting devilish distasteful to me!” “Oh! you're gettin’ too particular to live,” the other growled. °° Keep on your kickin’, you will, ‘til first ye know some one o’ the boys will pcp you over.” Jack laughed recklessly. “Tl be cussed if they will!” he returned. “Tt takes a spry man to get a drop on me. Hang it, L allow there’s a cause for me to growl. I i t got a smellof a share of that thousand yet. _ ‘Nor have the rest of the boys. I’m holding it back till I bleed old Andre once more. I’m cols to do that, too, before I send Big Buck- skin over the dam!”. “*He won’t unload!” “The blazes he won't! Don’t fool yourself on that score. There's a big stake up, as he ad- mitted hi»'self, and he ain’t the man to lose a puddin’ for the sake o’ savin’ the plums. By the great eternal!” “ What's the matter?” ; Burk Murdock did not reply in words, but pointed across the gulch, where two men were standing, engaged in watching a party of miners busy opening up a new placer claim. Jack Murdock whistled. ‘ “Why, that’s his reverend nibs, now!” he ejaculated. “But who’s the swell along with him, that supports the side whiskers?” - ' | opine we kin show ’em. better. 5 "The English nabob what wants Andre's daughter, I presume,” the captain said, with a shrug. ‘ We're disguised. Let’s go over tbere.” Accordingly they sauntered across the gulch, and paused but a few paces frou where Sir Royal Rignold was plating with Jubal Andre. Rignold was a haughty, aristocratic-looking individual of thirty years, with blonde side- whiskers, mustache, and hair, and was elabo- rately dressed in the finest of clothing, with jewels to match. ’ The claim which the miners were opening he had evidently purchased, for he was giving oc- casional directions, The two Murdocks paid no attention to either Rignold or the wicked aha but were seem- ingly eagerly interested in the work of the miners. Their ears were open, however, and not without bearing something. “T guess the investment will pay back a: small margin, at least,” Sir Royal was saying. ‘*T hope your daughter will arrive safely with the money to-night. I migbt as well have brought it myself, as we encountered no road- agents.” “Tt is better in her care,” Andte respouded, looking casually around bim. ‘ Road-robbers are less likely to search a woman for valu- ables than a man, The stage from Boise will reach here before ten o'clock to-night.” Tbe conversation turned cff on other topics then, and the two men soon sauntered off to a newly-finished shanty of more pretensions to a residence than the rest, and eutered it, And the two Murdocks also moved away. “Dye tumble?” the captain asked. * Bet!” was Jack's response. '* Andre’s gal is comin’ in on the stage to-nig, t, an’ is fetchin’ the swell’s swag, ‘cause he was afeard to fetch it bimself.” ‘We want a smell at that. They suy 4s how there's no agents fer the Boise trail, but 1 Where's tho ays? “Up at old Sal Slap’s!” “What! She's not h re, the old tigress?” “Of course! The boys nosed her out first. Got a bapg-up ranch, called Guzzler’s Glory. Good haven for us, too. She had it built wi’ an eve to biz, in the way o’ supplyin’ a hidin’-plac. —secret room, ye know.” ; ‘“Humph! we may need to use it. . But to business, Go tell the boys to collect. on the Bois: trail. a mile out, as soon as its dark! Dye take?” “Tn course !” **Call ‘Cnekoo’!” The brotheis separated, and weut in erent directions, to mature preparations for the stage robbery. CHAPTER IV. ae A MOMENTOUS NIGHT. Arrrr being shown to his room, Big Buck- skin dismissed Little Bill before that youngster could get a word in edgewise. ‘os Mig ‘Never mind, old boss,” pigitiane pompously muttered, as Le went cown-s airs th sinter o considerable ebagrin. “Tl get even wi’ you yet. Needn’t feel so mighty big ef you aire six foot. Reckon you look aoen on kids as kinder a superfluous adjunct, as Doll says; but “twixt you an’ me i've bearn tell o’ kids wi’ a fat bank account. Wait till you want some infermation —oh, won’t I freeze ye wi’ the furst answer! Bet I wall! Jest like Dollbaby to go git sweet on thet giant, too, Til put a flea in he? ear furst time I get a chance.” , The Bonanza had a bar-room and a well stocked bar, but no games of any kind, except dice, were allowed therein. if ; Little Bill usually officiated during the day as dispenser of good cheer, while Old Prowler took his place after sunsct, when trade was more brisk. 7. “That position the venerable detective ocenpied when Bill entered the saloon, after conducting Big Buckskin to his room. y The room being vacant for the moment, Old Prowler signaled for Bill, who approeched with a decidedly grum face. ‘ ‘“ What's the matter, Billy?’ the Englishman asked, seeing that something bad g Ne wreng, “Nothin’,” the boy answered. ‘Big Inmn.ox trod on my corn. Wot ye want?” “Who was that fellow whom you showed up- stairs?” * Big Buekssin.” Big Buekssiv s” Didn't Lsay sot Want me to write it down fer ye? Injun - fighter —bad medicine— card sharp—cuss in geueral. Killed sixty reds, sin- gle-handed, in one day, up on the Yellerstone,”
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6 - Denver Doll's Decoy. ‘Bill, you are an inveterate liar!” “Git out! "Twer’ red-birds he killed.” And with a triumphant whistle, the “ pro- prietor ” of the Bonanza swaggered out of the ‘ office” for a walk around town, leaving Old Prowler to deliberate over the situation. In the mean time Big Buckskin had locked his door and thrown himself upon the apology of a bed with a yawn, for a long ride in the lumber- ing stage coach had wearied him. 6 soon dropped off into a refreshing sleep, and did not awaken until the supper gong sounded, when he made a hasty toilet and went down-stairs. To his satisfaction he was given a table apart from the rest of the guests, at which he was later joined by Denver Doll, whose fair cheeks were et, flushed, and who looked very at- tractive in her habitual neat costume of male attire. “This privacy I deem an exceptional honor, fair hostess,” the sport remarked, graciously, ‘not to mention your own company, which f am proud to have. I believe [ should have felt decidedly awkward at the other tables, but now I feel so reassured that [ can eat as much as a starved grizzly.” “Perhaps I bave made an unprofitable move, then, considering the high price of provender,” Doll laughed, jokingly. ‘Do you contemplate remaining here long, Nir. Mr ‘Call me simply Buckskin,” he added. ‘‘ Yes, I propose to lie around loose until I can get on the sure trail of the notorious Murdock Broth- ers. I have sworn to break up the gang, and rather expect the excitement will attract them here.” “T can perhaps be of service to you, then. I am of the opinion that they are in camp now.” Big Buckskin stared. “Do you know them?” he demanded. “Not all,” Doll replied; ‘‘but to-night when ou were registering I observed two rough- ooking fellows staring in at you through the open door, and saw them exchange what ap- peared to be significant glances. After you went up-stairs they left. Both wore reddish beards, which I at the time concluded were false!” Big Buckskin whistled. “T doubt not but what you are right,” he said. ‘The Murdocks are as much my sworn enemies as I am theirs. That they are here abead of me, however, is something of a sur- prise. They no doubt calculated as regards the excitement in the same way Idid, I will look around this evening.” “ Are you not afraid of a shot in the dark?” ‘‘No, I have been shot at more times than I am years old. They can plug away at my form as rouch as they like, as long as they don’t get above the top of my sboulders,” “Ah! then you wear some protective ar- vane? beneath your clothing?’ Yes, a suit of the finest and strongest mail a present from an old Russian officer whom I chanced to meet a few years 2 “ Well, | wish you success. you need any tance call on me.” ‘I will, for I have heard much of your daring and could not ask for a greater defender. Are you alone here?” “Oh, yes, except for my youthful apprentice, Billy. @ boy is quite as good as any detec- tive; in many respects better than a man.” . After supper the sport bade her good-evening, and lighting a cigar which he purchased of Old Prowler at the bar, be sauntered out to see the sights of Little Bill’s Bonanza by lamp-light, if such were there. And there were. Several dance-houses and gaming-houses had already opened up, but they possessed no at- tractions for the sport, who merely glanced in. Sal Slap’s ‘‘ Guzzler’s Glory,” however, caught his attention, and out of curiosity he entered. tered. The long saloon was filled with the worst characters of the male persuasion that had flocked to the camp—-men whose wretched lives were pho phed in their faces, and whose evil expressions were a mirror’s reflection of their hearts. The center of attraction, however, was a giant who occupied the center of the floor and was en- gaged in a noisy breakdown to the music of a wheezy aceordeon. Big Buckskin was manifestly a large man as compared with the ordinary run of human beings, but even he paled into insignificance as compared with the typical bullwhacker, who, while he danced, roared like a lion in its native jungle. hull armies to capture. It’s me, an’ ro dispute, and I’m down here on purpose to get my old sheet-iron copper-lined biler full o’ bug-juice. Goin’ to treat, bubby?” He addressed his remark to Big Buckskin, on whom his eyes had instantly become fixed. Buckskin did not reply, but turned his gaze away, for, although by no means afraid of any man he had ever met, he had no desire to enter into a quarrel, nor did he desire to humor a man whose every lineament betrayed the human beast in glowing colors, But Gulliver from Lilliput, as he styled him- self, did not propose to let him off, evidently, for he swaggered up with a show of braggadocio and glared at Big Buckskin with a leer. “Did ye heer me articulate a minnit ago?” he growled, fiercely. ‘* Did ye heer me ax ye war yé goin’ to treat?’ ‘*T believe [heard you!” Big Buckskin replied, calmly. : oe ye did, did ye? Waal, what ye goin’ to do? ‘* Nothing at all.” “Oh! ye’re stingy, aire ye? Waal, I ain’t. I'm old Gulliver from Lilliput, I am; so come up and drink wi’ me.” ‘“ Thank you, but I do not care for anything!” “But L say yes /” the giant roared. 4 aed I say no!” Buckskin replied, coolly and y. “Then, durn ye yf got to fight. Any galoot as won’t wet his whistle wi’ Gulliver has got to fight!” This declaration very naturally elicited a murmur of applause from the rough audience congregated within Sal Slap’s saloon. To their crime-hardened natures nothin; of greater pleasure than a bloodthirsty between two human beings, for mastery. Such fights between ordinary men were of nightly occurrence in the den; but a struggle be- tween two men like Big Buckskin and Gulliver promised to be of more than usual interest. Huge and ponderous was the gian*, but many a discerning eye in the room saw qualities in the nervy figure of the handsome sport that were wanting in the cumbrous giant. Big Buckskia received the declaration of bis huge confronter with as much coolness as he had manifested in answering his questions, not a change of expression in his face denoting any alarm on his part. “Did ye heer me?” Gulliver roared again. “Ef ye won’t drink you’ve got to fight, you lit- tle pigmy.” y “Then, fight it is,” Big Buckskin replied, was ttle coolly. ‘‘Take my advice, man, and mind your one ” siness, or, ten chances to one, you'll get uy The giant paused a moment, in a half-squat- ting position, and glared in a puzzled way at the sport. Then he burst into such a guffaw as made the house fairly tremble. “You hurt me, the unconquerable, famous Gulliver from Lilliput!—you, sech a leetle suck- ling babe! Why, pilgrim, Ill fight you single- handed. I want ye ter try to to fick me, I want yer to knock some o’ the conceit out o’ me! “That's easy enough done!” Buckskin replied ; and before any one had any idea of bis inten- tion, he sla Galliver across the mouth with the flat of his hand. The blow was delivered with startling quick- ness and terrible force, the report being audible in any portion of the room. So sudden was it that it took the Goliah by surprise, and upsetting his equilibrium caused him to roll to the floor. 7 " For a moment he lay panting for breath— then, sitting up, looked at Big Buckskin with a broad grin, 3 ‘Dog my cats, if ye didn’t do thet up brown, pilgrim!” said, hoarsely. ‘‘ Done mé more than a cactus thorn in a glass o’ bad habit. Tell ye what I'll do—bet ye can’t bit me again.” “*T have no desire to do so, as long as you have yourself,” Buckskin replied, sternly. ‘If you bother me again, however, I shall endeavor to knock your teeth down your throat. look to yourself.” Saying which he walked across the room to the bar, and purchased a fresh cigar and lit it. As he did so Gulliver raised himself from the floor and shook himself like some great shaggy dog. f See here, pardner,” he said, once more swaggering up. to the sport, ‘you an’ I ain’t thru’ yet. I allow 1 ain’t got nothin’ ag’in’ you, nohow, but, all the same, you’ve insulted me, an’ [I want ye to’polergize like a man.” “Heer am I—old Gulliver, right up from Lil- | “T am not aware that I owe youany apology liput—the same old nubbin’ o’ corn what et tuk | whatever!” Big Buckskin retorted. ‘ You wanted the conceit taken out of you, and I en- deavored to accommodate you; but I see that you have a plenty left.” “Bet 1 have, pilgrim! I’m a roarin’ rhinos- seross, Iam—a reg’lar_terror uv the desert, wi’ no one to dispute that I’m the king of beasts. I axed ye to drink, an’ ye slapped me in the mouth for my pains. Jumpin’ Sautier: thet aire riled me, stranger, an’ 1 want satisfaction. Wull ye be a gentleman, an’ step inter a ring wi’ me?” “Tf you demand redress you shall have an opportunity to get it. “Waal, I do! “Then it is settled. How shall it be? Are we to be quits hereafter, or shall I be compelled to do the job for you now?” “Ef ye kin knock me out o’ time, pilgrim, dog my cats ef we won’t shake hands over it and sw’ar friendship and good will toward one another forever!” the giant declared, with a flourish. “Then, gentlemen, will some of you kindly chalk out a ring?’ Buckskin asked, calmly. “Mr. Gulliver, get ready!” 7 The ring was quickly made ready for the con- test. The nt then began his preparations, watched with interest by the oma: He first went to the bar and took a tremendous horn of whisky, evidently as a ‘‘ bracer,” to nerve him up for what he knew must come, then he di- vested himself of all bis garments except his trowsers, and thus stepped into the ring, Big Buckskin had stood leaning against the bar, idly watching his hpi preparations, but his eye kindled with admiration as he be- held the massive muscular figure of the border Briareus. “Come!” that worthy roared, glaring at the sport with self-conscious pride; “tye ain’t a-goin’ to weaken, are you?” ‘If I do, it is for the first time in my career,” Buckskin replied, relighting his cigar, tipping, his hat back upon his head, and stepping for- ward, “Why in thunder don’t ye bare he and get ready then?’ Gulliver demanded; “ I’m anxious to git at ye!” “Tam ready. Step into the ring, and square yourself!” The giant looked his surprise! ‘““What? Ain’t ye goin’ ter strip?’ he asked. seeming to feel a little uneasy, “There is no need of that!” Buckskin de- clared. ‘I can hit just as hard a blow with my duds on as off.” Gulliver shut one eye, and reviewed his oppo- nent speculatively. “See hyar!” he cried, “‘ you wull ex-keuse me,, but I believe you're a perfesh!” “You are wrone ere is nothing I detest more boroaghly than fighting.” “Yas, mebbe; but, ’twixt us Lilliputians_ ou don’t often git left. Now, before we begirt his hyer funeral, I want to make one partin” request.” * And what is that?” ‘ “ Don’t beg me on the smeller, Hit me any where’s else, but for Heving’s sake don’t dislo- cate my proboscis so ! can’t tell good likker’ from bad when J smell of it.” “You must Jook out for your own horn, my friend!” Buekskin replied. “It I get a chance at it, I shall endeavor to make it look the color of the barkeeper’s |!” s And he nodded toward Sal Slap, who was am interested spectator. “Oh! you insultin’ loafer, wait till I catch ou alone!” she screamed, getting red in the ace, ‘Ill arn ye how to cast insinuations on. an innercent woman’s beauty !” Gulliver had good cause to be sensitive in re- gard to his nasal appendage, for a huge seed- wart grew upon the end of it, and made it very tender. ‘Come! I’m ready!’ Buckskin called out. “One! two! three!” At the word the two men came to time in the ring, and began a series of fefutting experiments,. for the purpose of testing each other’s science. Although big and clumsy, Gulliver was evi- dently not an amateur at the manly art, and soon succeeded in getting in a light blow upon. the sport's left cheek. That was nothing, however. The next in- stant Buckskin’s fist shot against the giant's left optic with terrible velocity, and followed with a companion blow against his nose. To say that Gulliver dropped, would be ex- ressing it mildly. He went down, literally. ‘like a thousand of brick,” and lay stretched a5
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Denver Doll’s Decoy. out at full length, groaning and pressing one hand upon the nasal organ, while his eye as- sumed a discolored appearance. “ Taat’s enuff!” he howled. ‘I ain’t a bed- bug—I’ve got one taste, and that’s-enuff!” A cheer rung out through the room. At the same instant there came the report of a pistol, and a bullet whizzed unpleasantly close to Big Buckskin’s head. Looking quick'y around, he beheld a young Indian in the act of skulking from the saloon. With a leap that would have astonishea many, a professional, he reached the door just in time to seize the red-skin by his scalp-lock, and jerk him back into the room! Planting his foot on the would-be assassin’s breast, be drew a revolver, and cocked it, **So you thought you were going to get off easy, you infernal cutthroat?” he cried, a wild gleam in his eyes. ‘‘ You should have known better than to attempt the life of Big Buck- skin!” He then turned to the crowd that flocked around, ‘““Gentlemon, can any of you inform me who this red heathen is?” ‘‘ That's Red Eagle, from Boise!” a miner said. “ He’s a sneak-thief and rascal, and you can’t de better than finish him!” A sudden thought came into the Sport’s mind just then, for he thrust the muzzle of his re- velver against the Indian’s temple, a fierce glow in his black eyes. “See here, red-skin!” he hissed, “ your life depends upon your truthful answers to my questions. If I detect you in the suspicion of a lie, Pll blow your brains out where you lay. Do you hear me, you red rascal?” oo savage bobbed his head, in the affirma- 1vé, “Then, see that you answer me truthfully. Who put you up to shoot nie ?” Pc yi? ake care! Are you lying?’ “Red Eagle nebber lie!” “ What did you shoot at me for, then?” No like pale-face. Kill many Red Eagle’s people!” “Get out! That's no excuse. Do you know the Murdocks?” The red skin started. ‘Hear of ’em!” he replied. “Do you know them?” the sport repeated, fiercely. “‘Ugh! some!” “Tthought so. Theyset youon. Where are they, now?” S Dunno!” “Look out!” “Red Eagle think um in mountains.” ** Where’s their ranch?” “Dunno! nebber there!” “They want my life don’t they?” “Tink so!” “And you allowed by killing me, you could get paid for it?” “Ugh” Big Buckskin put his revolver in bis belt, and j — the savage to his feet, by his scalp- lock. ** Now, you red devil, Pll give you ten min- utes to leave the camp. If I catch you here again, I'll shoot you!” The Indian was in no wise loth to obey, and made his exit from the shanty, in a manner more hasty than graceful. Having seen sufficient of Guzzler’s Glory for one-night. Big Buckskin soon after left the place, and returned to his room at the hotel. “Tbe Murdocks are after me in earnest, now!” he muttered, “‘ but they’ll find me as wide awake asever. Once I get them broken up, I will bid adieu to this wild country, and return to the home that knew me in my pay a hood. Yet, I can hardly bear to go know- ing that I have an only son buffeting somewhere about this world, perhaps without a home or friends. Something tells me, too, that I am go- ing to see Agnes. God forbid, for very likely she has forgotton me, in all these years we have been separated.” : He lay for some time upon his bed, but a feel- ing of restlessness had possession of him and sleep failed to come to his eyes. The room seemed to be close, and it was with diffictlty he could get his breath. Finally, in a spirit of desperation, he arose, and went down-stairs, where he procured a glass ef wine, at the bar. Olid Prowler eyed him, with a strange ex- pression, while he drank. ** Exeuse me,” he said as the sport set down his glass, upon the counter, ‘‘ but you are called Big Buckskin, are you not?” . | knew. ‘*T opine that’s about the ticket, my friend,” Buckskin replied. ‘‘ Why do you ask?” . ‘Merely out of curiosity. In your features I perceive some resemblance to a person I once Strange, ain’t it, how memory will carry faces back into the past?” ‘True for you!” Buckskin returned. ‘I often see a face that reminds me of some friend in days gone-by.” “You have another name?” “Well, yes; but I don’t have much occasion to use it. Big Buckskin is more popular out in this country than plain Joe Wilton; sol hang to the first.” “IT see. You must have had an eventful life. Sometime, when you have nothing to do, I should like you to give me a brief sk tch of it.” ““Thank you. Some day when I have the blues I may be able to accommodate you.” Just then the stage from Boise City dashed uP to the door, and the stentorian voice of old ank Hill yelled: “ Little Bill’s Bonanza! Pile out!” Big Buckskin sauntered out upon the veranda to look at the new arrivals, and was there joined by Denver Doll. : ** No accommodation here for this crowd,” she said, laughingly, as the passengers left the stage. ‘‘ Ah! what’s that—a stage robbery?” The word ‘‘road-agents” was passing from mouth to mouth as the passengers alighted. “What is it, Hank?’ Doll asked, as the driver approached her, “Oh! nuthin’ much!” the veteran grunted. “A gang o’ agents halted us a mile out, and cleaned out the wealth. Not much loss, ’cept the gal yonder, who got cleaned out of a heap of paper money.” The eyes of Denver Doll and Big Buckskin turned toward the coach, and the Jehu passed on. A woman, young and beautiful, and well dressed, had just alighted, and was gazing about her excitedly, evidently expecting some one. The bronzed face of Big Buckskin turned pale, and he stepped from the verauda to her side. “Agnes!” he said, in a low tone. She turned with a gasping cry, and. gave him a startled look. At the same time a man sprung forward, pushed Buckskin back, and clas his arm about the lady’s waist. : ‘Avast! you ruffian!” he cried addressing the Buckskin Sport. ‘‘ How dare you insult an un- protected lady?” ¥ For an instant the sport did not answer; he was white and speechless with rage; the next instant he sprung forward, and tearing the man—who was Sir Royal Rignold—from the lady’s side, he raised him high above his head, by the power of bis mighty arms, and for an instant held him there in a horizontal position, crying in tones'clear and stern: ‘Curses on you, Royal Rignold. I'll show you what authority I have to address that wo- man! The next instant be hurled the Englishman in a yry to the ground. At the same time Jubal Andre appeared upon the scene, and comprehending the situation, hurried his daughter away to the shanty. Leaving the victim of his anger lyme in a stunned condition upon the ground, Big Buck- skin turned to the crowd. ; ‘ “Gentlemen!” he said, quietly; “ + that u calls for satisfaction, some one of you oe. bring the intelligence. I shall be most app to accommodate him.” tt white with passion, he turned and en- tered the hotel. ; } Denver Doll followed him, and caught his coat-sleeve just as he was about to ascend the stairs. “Hold up! she said, her gaze meeting his. ‘‘T want you to answer me one question?” “Well?” “Who was that Aa etl He laughed bitterly. “A aentea viper, and best of all, a woman who will never interfere with my great respect and admiration for you!” Then he went up-stairs. CHAPTER V. THE DESERTED GIRL-WIFE. No incident worthy of detail happened during the remainder of that night, except at the Bo- nanza Hotel. The bruised Sir Rignold had been picked up and conveyed to Jubal Andre’s shanty by a party of sympathizing miners, and the remain- der of the evening was spent in discussing the two main topics—namely: the stage robbery 7 and the strange proceedings in front of Bo- nanza, eS As for Denver Doll, she moved about her prosperous establishment, superintending ti ings with her habitual pleasant demeanor; but an intimate acquaintance might have noticed that there was a more vivid flush upon her cheeks to-night than usual, and that she was somewhat less vivacious, She waited expectantly for a messenger from Sir Royal Rignold very naturally, surmising that he would send a challenge to Big Buckskin; but in this she was agreeably disappointed, for no challenge put in.an SPPCATEH AG: Toward midnight, when she was about to close up for the night, a ragged, baggard wo- man, barefooted and bleeding from brier scratches, and carrying a six-mopths’ old babe in her arms, entered the bar-room, of which the Detective Queen was the sole occupant. In years the new-comer had evidently not passed far into her teens; but the attenuation of her figure, haggardness of her face, and wildly wearied expression of her eyes, told better than words that she had undergone Jong and exquis-~ ite suffering. She approached the bar, behind which Denver Doll was standing, with a faltering step, as it she was afraid of being repulsed, Denver Doll, despite her own young life, had seen much of the sinfulness and suffering of the world, and withal had as tender a heart as eveir beat within the breast of woman. Quick and discerning, intense and critical to a fault, she was last of all persons to turn from. a fellow-creature because that one had fallen into the painful clutches of poverty and mis- fortune. 4 It was no wonder, then, that her heart went out for the pitiful-looking girl-mother, with her suckling babe, “Please ma’am, would yez be so kind to give me a drink of wather, and if yez have a bit of supper yez could give me for the like av that, per the Virgin Mary and the saints will bless eZ : And she laid a locket and chain upon the bar, with a wistfal glance. Denver Doll took it up, and examined it, with curiosity. “* Where did you get this?’ she asked. “Shure, lady, I didn’t stale it,” the woman replied, with a balf sob. “It was the gift at me weddint, from me husband what has gone far away and left me.” The locket was a costly affair, of heavy gold set, with real diamonds and pearls. On opening it Doll could scarcely conceal her surprise. On one side was the picture of a fair young girl—evidently that of the poor bomeless creature who now waited without the bar. The reverse picture was the face of a man, and it was that which surprised Doll, for she bad seem it before. . “Have you any idea of the value of this locket, lady?’ Doll asked. ‘*Shure! I have not!” was the reply. “Tt's little [know about jewelry at all. “Well, 1 should say so. To say the least, the cheip and locket are’ worth two hundred ‘dol- lars! The woman uttered a surprised cry, but her face clouded, when Doll handed it back to her, “ Won't yez take it?’ she asked. “ By no means, Take it and never part witl: it. You can have your supper free. Wait a moment.” She went into a rear apartment a moment, but scon returned. “Let me bave the baby, and come with me to my room,” she said. Vou can eat there. You must be tired I know; and, besides, ’ve some clothing to give you.” The Irish girl uttered a prayer for all the saints to preserve her benefactress, and meekly surrendered her babe and followed, Once up in Denver Doll’s room, a transfor- mation was inaugurated, and Nellie Kelly, as she gave her name, was soon comfortably clad in full suit of female attire of serviceable goods, which Doll had long since discarded for her masculine dress. ; The astonishment and gratitude of the poor irl would be hard to describe; and her own anguage was certainly inadequate to express it. Next came the supper, served by one of the Detective Queen’s Chinese servants; and after it was all over, Nellie kneeled at the feet of Denver Doll, and sobbed out her heartfelt thanks, ‘“God bless yez!” she said, in conclusion. “You are the kindest wan I’ve met in many a long day.”
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8 Denver Doll’s Decoy. “Do not feel bad, but cheery and good, like myself. I’ve had some tough trials in my time, whieb none but myself and God knows of; but | locked ’em up in my heart, with a resolve to face the cold world -.ith a brave front. We may be bitterly wronged, dear, but if we do right as our conscience directs us, we've the sat- isfaction of knowing that we'll scoop in th + win- ning deal over our enemies, at the end of the game—but maybe you don’t understand our vernacular phrases. Nevertheless, I want you to tell me of your past—why you are here— everything!” Nellie looked up into her face, wonderingly. ‘* Phat yez want to know for?” she asked. ** Because you have caused me to be interested iun,you. Why are you here, alone and in desti- tute circumstances, so far from your native country?” “Shure, it’s searchin’ for me husband, I am.” ** Your husband, eh? Ishe here, in the West, my dear?” “Faith, ma’am, but he is. He thought he could dodge simple Nellie; but, bless the good Saints, I was sharper than he thought.” “*He ran away and left you, then?” ** He did, but [ had a bit of money saved up, an’ I followed in the next ship!” “Good for you! Where do you expect to find your husband?” “Shure, the last place he wint was to Bias City, 1 think.” ‘* Boise City, you mean.” “That's it. Irun ont ay money at Freer’s Ford, and had to foot it.” “And, Nellie, why is it you pursue this man, who is so unfaithful?” “The divil only knows, mum, only I want to git the likes of a glance at him, once more, and prevint him from foolin’ any other girl.” “Good! Tl help you.” “* Phat?” “Tl help you. If you will promise me to remain in my care, and obey my advice, [’ll make you the happier by making your husband unhappy. Ill also compel your husband to pro- vide for your future.” “Yez'll do this?” “Yes, But you = ba ra to stay in this room, closely, and doas I instruct you. I think i can work up a good case here, that will please nore than one.” "May the saints preserve you! I will do evervthing phat vou say.” “Very well. You can occupy this room with me, and I will see that you are rightly cared for. Will you loun me the Jocket, to work on?” *Sbure I will. But vez dowt know me hus- Land’s name?” “Yes, Ido. It is Royal Riznold!” “The saints save us, but how did yez learn the likes of that?’ ' “Ob! I saw him twice to night—once iu life, and once in the locket.” ‘‘Och! he’s not here?” “Yes—but, you must stay right here, until I get peg to use you against him.” “T will do as pPazes yez, Yez have been good tw me.” “Ttsa bargain, then. I will now go down and close up for the night!” She descended to the office, where she found waiting no less a personage than the redoubt- able Gulliver from Lilliput, whom Big Buckskin had met at Sal Slap’s ‘‘ Guzzler’s Glory.” CHAPTER VI. A GLIMPSE OF THE GAME. Ir was the first time Denver Doll had ever seen the giant, and she stared at him for a mo- ment, with amaz2d incredulity. Gulliver smiled bis sweetest smile, courtesied, ‘und scraped his foot in true Chesterfield style, and then spake: ’ “ Beloved maiden, beboldest thou me?” “ Well, | should snicker!” Doll replied, with a low langh. Any one that couldn’t discover such a fly-speck as you, ought to be imprisoned in an eyeand ear infirmary. You take the rag off'n the bush!” “No, beautiful sissy, I never war guilty of theft, cept once in my bloomin’ youth, when [stole the luv frum the buzzom o’ the belle of Chicago. I war purty, then; but alas! leaves fade, when autumn tickles ’em, an’ flowerets fade, when frost nips ‘em. Dy’e see this nose, sissy ?” “Yes!” “* Av’ this discolored organ of sight?” “You bet!” - ‘“Waal, but a few hours ago, both were fair to view, but the blighting hand of a son-of-a-sea- ook fell upon them, in two fell swoops, and Jeft the indelible results you behold. Don’t you think such a person orter be lynched fer such an outrageous assault on a poor, homeless orphan?” **To be sure he ought,” Doll replied greatly amused, and wondering how she was to get rid of the overgrown ruffian. “That’s what I think!” Gulliver went on. “And yet, bere you keep that same galoot under yer roof, the same as if he was a prince!” ‘*T don’t know who ye mean!” *“Ye don’t! Don’t know nothin’ about a chap called Big Buckskin?” “Oh! do you mean him?’ “Bet Ldo! He’s the chap what did the busi- ness for me, Jerusalem Jericho! didn’t he polish me, though!” “Glad of if!” Denver Doll declared. ‘ Big hoping is my mash, you know!” with a laugh. ‘Lord help you! ef he mashes you in the same style he did me; you won’t be so purty as you aire now,” “ But he won’t. And now, if your interview is concluded, I will close up shop.” ‘*But it ain’t. I want to see that aire fellow that slugged me in the eye and mashed the corn on my nose!” “You can’t see him!” ‘But I will see him!” * But I say you shall not!” The giant stared at her for a moment, as if doubtful whether she meant it or not; then, turning, he strode toward the door, on reaching which he turned and tipped his hat, with comi- cal suavity. “Ta, ta! daisy—I go, as went forth the toads from Ireland. As Grandad Gulliver said to the Lilliputians, I cannot comprehend the strange- ness of these people.” And in a moment more he had vanished from view. Quite satisfied with the number of incidents of the day, Doll closed up the Bonanza and retired for the night. With the dawning of the next day, the 2 of the stage robbery was revived, and geuerally discussed. A number of the principal claim owners held a meeting to adopt some measures for breaking up the gang of desperadoes, at the start. After due consultation it was decided that no better plan could be adopted than to organize a Vigilance Committee, and put a solid man to the front. “Among those whom I judge most competent to take command,” one miner said, ‘‘is the noted outlaw bunter, Big Buckskin!” ‘** A good choice!” affirmed another. “But I object!” put in Jubal Ardre, who had managed to work himself into the conference. “That fellow is a rascal,and has a notoriety second to none for wickedness.” “Have you any personal interest, sir,” a miner asked, ‘‘in this appointment?’ * No,” was the answer, ‘‘ but my prospective son-in-law may have.” “ We are not considering prospective son-in- laws, nor personal spites,” the miner said. ‘We will take a vote on the matter, among ourselves, who are most interested, and if the result is in favor of the scout, we will give him the charge.” With a suppressed growl, Jubal Andre separ- ated himself from the caucus, realizing that that was no time for his pretest. A vote was taken, antl it was unanimously agreed that Big Buckskin should be waited upon, and asked to take the cbieftaincy of the Vigilantes at Little Bill’s Bonanza. n the mean time Jubal Andre returned to his sbanty, and found Agnes and Sir Royal playing chess in the front room. The latter was white and nervous, and bad his left arm in a sling and his head bandaged. “Well! did you find out who the puppy was who assaulted me, Parson Andre?” he asked, grimly. **T did,” the other replied, with a glance at Agnes, which was full of significance. “He is a border ruffian of the boldest type, and is known as Big Buckskin.” *“Aumph! I have resolved to challenge the fellow to fight me with swords. Iam ay expert at fencing, and am satisfied that I could run him through. But do you know, friend Andre, that there is one thing which puzzles me?” * Eh? Something that puzzles you? What is it, pray?” “Why, you see, if seems so deuced strange that the fellow should call my darling Agnes by her name and then, likewise, call me by my name!” * That { ean easily explain, Sir Royal. This man. another rascal, who awhile ago attempted to blackmail me, with a view of extorting money. They had a confederate in my house in the per- son of a servant, whom I afterward discharged. It seems their game is young yet. They evi- dently propose to make money out of me at all hazards, and their knowledge of some of my family affairs probably caused the trouble last night. I wodiel advise you to let the matter drop, for your life is too valuable to be placed af the mercy of one of these ruthless border ruffians.” “Oh! dear Sir Royal, please don’t think of running the risk of your life,” Agnes cried imploringly. ‘ Life would be a blank to me if you were taken off.” ‘‘Then rest your heart, my betrothed, for I will submit to your judgment!” the English- man averred. Later, when Sir Royal had retired to his room, Jubal Andre still sat in the parlor, in company with his fair but false daughter. “Tt is be, then!” she was saying, ber eyes bent upon the carpet. “Yes, and we baye got to play our cards cleverly, or he will be of great damage to us Did you count Sir Royal’s money before you were robbed?” “Yes, There were ten thousand dol—” “Which, all told, was worth perhaps twenty- five cents.” ** How do you mean?” “1 made an exchange a few nights ago—poor for good, you know.” : “Ah! then—” “We are ten thousand in, whether you cap- ture bim or not.” - “I think I can depend on him, if Joe Wilton does not spoil the thing.” ‘He must not. The Murdocks are here now, I suspect, and Vl hurry them up as soon as | can safely see them. Once Joe Wilton is out of the way, you can saf ly marry Sir Royal and we will all make a start for England, and Cast!e Chelton, where years ago | served as bailiff to Sir Hugh Chelton. Strange what ever became of Sir Hugh, and that young scapegrace, Sir Clifford. It was a lucky thing anyhow for Sir Royal, and, as it promises to turn out, a lucky thing for ourselves.” “Ah! yes; [ suppose so. fate of my child, however.” “ Bah! forget that you ever had one, or a busband. Remember that future wealth and happiness now all depend upon you.” CHAPTER VIL. ANDRE BEGINS TO DOUBT, AND BUCKSKIN BE- GINS TO ACT, DurinG the night of Nellie Kelly’s arrival Denver Doll slept but little, for her mind was too busy in thought for sleep. When morning dawned she arose to find that Little Bill and Old Prowler had already opened up for business, Sending the former on an errand, the De- tective Queen approached the bar, and looking I wish I knew the “upon it thoughtfully, said: “Prowler, you say you are an English de- tective, and, consequently, ought to ki ow every important personage upon that patch of land governed by the queen. Did you ever hear of a man named Sir Roval Rignold?”’ . ** Yes; Lonce knew a Royal Rignold; but be had no Sir prefixed to bis name. This he prab- ably acquired from inheritance.” * Tell me about it, Prowler.” * Why do you want to know?” “ For your own good, You told me you were anxious to find the lost son of a great estate. Perhaps I can be of a deal of assistance to you.’ ‘““Think you so? Then I will enlighten you a little, though I do not care.to throw the whole business into your hands, The estate of Chelton Castle belongetl to Sir Hugh Chelton up to the time of bis strange disappearance, After him, it should have descended to Sir Clifford, his run- away son;, but, hegbeing absent and dead to the world, it fell to”the next of kin, his cousin, Royal Rignold. May I ask what you know about the case, more than what I have told you!” “ Very little. [have gathered in some points, however, and were you to put the matter en- tirely in my hands, I believe I could make a success out of it.” . “T fear not. Were Sir Clifford found, eveu, after so many years, it would be bard to rein- state him, since Sir Hugh is dead, and he weuld have difficulty in proving his identity.” * Did he not have some birth-mark, or some family relie in his possession nt the time of leaving home?” it seems, bas been in co-operation with
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‘* He bad the royal arms pricked in his arm in | $wo colored inks, when a boy. It may not have | worn away, if he still be living.” | ‘* Likely not. Throngh the agency of certain facts that have come into my possession, I be- | lieve I can not only soon find the lost beir, but prove the usurper a rogue andarascal. Give me sole charge of the case, and | will cipher it out, ‘Well, if you think you can do it, go ahead— Ym willing, Sir Clifford back ‘again in his | rightful position, | can afford to pay you well for your work.” “Tf am not so particular about the pay. | It is more for the purpose of righting a great wrong that I crave the job, than for any other reason, Tassure you, You spoke once about Jubal An- dre. Has he any connection with the case?” “Not directly. He was once the bailiff of old Sir Hugh—years ago. He, however, stole ten thousand pounds in gold from Sir Hv2h, and fled to this country, where he is living still, accord- ing to all accounts.” ‘Yes; he is even here in the gulch, I have learned, in company with his daughter and Sir Royal Rignold.” ‘How know you this?” ‘‘No matter; I have learned so.” “Then you may be sure there is some deviltry brewing,” ‘‘T believe it is the intention of Sir Royal to wed Andre’s daughter.” “That must never be! No Andre shall ever queen it at Castle Chelton while I can prevent ry Pera too much of old Sir Hugh to allow naw {” ‘Sir Royal cannot legally wed again,” Den- ver Doll said quietly. ‘ He has one wife living already, as I can prove. But leave it tome; Pil make a grand denouement, ere long, that will surprise several persons at least,” She then turned away, and Old Prowler watched her curiously until she had disappeared within the office, “A queer girl, but mighty sbrewd!” he said to himself; ‘and | shall nob be surprised if she works the case better than I could do it myself. Would to Heaven Sir Clifford could meet and | win this queenly American girl, to take back as his bride to Castle Chelton!” | Jubal Andre, althongh he had, while in Boise City, endeavored to cloak bis sins under the mantle of pretension of being a minister of the (rospel, was at heart an arrant rascal of the first water, with a power for scheming rarely if ever surpassed, After the termination of his interview with his daughter, he set out into the gulch once more, his brain in a whirl over the many thoughts that were flitting across his mind. In truth, he was not a little worried over the fact that matters were getting rather unpleasantly personal, Big Buckskin was in Henican So was Sir Royal Rignold, who was quick to form suspicions when foul play was laid in prep- aration for him. Should the sport and the Englishman meet, Jubal Andre felt positive that some word would fall from the lips of the former that would knock in the head all of bis (Andre’s) plans for —— his daughter the Lady of Chelton Crs- tle. [t therefore was most important that there should be no delay in the removal of the sport, before he could do any further harm. “If I can only find some of the Murdock zang Pll soon learn what is the cause of all this trouble, and why they don’t eara the money.” As luck would have it, he soon after found Red Eagle skulking about the outskirts of the town as if be was afraid of being seen. ‘*What are you doing here? You act as if you were half scared out of your wits!” Andre said, confronting him. “Red Eagle great brave—no git scared!” was the red-skin’s haughty reply. ‘‘Red Eagle wait for enemy—kill him!” A sudden thought entered the plotter’s mind. “Who is this enemy, chief?’ he asked. “Bad pale-fac’. Kill many of Red Eagle's | people. Call um Big Buckskin.” ‘“Humph! i wonder what strange fatalit: put that Into my mind?’ Jubal Andre tintierad: “Something seemed to tell me that he was waiting for Joe Wilton.” Then, aloud, be said: % — consider Big Buckskin your enemy, then “Ugh! yes. Red Eagle hate Big Buckskin. Kill him when git chance.” ** Look out he don’t kill you. Murdocks?”” Where are the Denver Doll’s Decoy. ; “ Dunno!” i ‘Take care! none of your lying, you rascal! I want to see the captain, at once,on important business.” ‘Give Red Eagle dollar, den he show!” was the wily answer. “You red devil! you’re playing for money, too, are yout Well, here is the dollar. Now tell me where I can find Burk Murdock.” Red Eagle waited until be had the dollar first before te Suc desired information. “Captain live over there,” he then announced, pointing to a newly-finished log cabin, a dozen | rods away. Jubal Andre directed his footsteps toward the cabin, leaving Red Eagle to keep bis vigil, in hopes of getting a chance for revenge upon Big Buckskin. When he arrived at the cabin, Andre recalled the signal the red-skin had employed at the time of their visit to the retreat in the moun- tains, and used it in his rap upon the door. ‘* Who's thar? Come in!” the captain’s rough voice called out, and Andre obeyed. Inside, the cabin was rough and unplastered, and furnished only with some stools and an un- planed board table. Jack Murdock was lying upon the floor near the fire-place, rolled up in a blanket, evidently sleeping off the effects of a drunk. Burk was seated by the table, with a bottle of liquor and glasses conveniently at hand. s Hello!” he growled, as his employer entered. “What vhe devil brings you bere?” ‘*Business!” Andre responded, decisively, as he took a seat. ‘ Nothing but business could tempt me to seek your society.” “Humph! you're cussed complimentary, ain’t you? What d’ye want?” ““T want to know what I am to understand by your silence and inactivity?’ “You mean about Big Buckskin?” “Certainly. He is here, and all you have to do is work.” “Yas, Ireckonso. But, you see, we've about concluded that the job’s too risky to tackle.” ** What?” “We can’t tech it. some one else,” “Then, sir, hand me back my thousand dol- lars!” ‘*Ha! ha! ain't you green? When smell of that again, you'll have cause right merrily.’ “ You ruffian, if you do not fulfill your prom- ise, or restore my money, I'll hand you over to the law.” “Bah! you would hardly do that, when such an action would do you fully as much injury ds myself. The only thing that will prompt us to go on with the jobis an additional two thousand in hand now. Give me this, and I swear that Big Buckskin shall not live to see another sun- 1 “Tl see you to the furthest corner of the earth first!” 3 “Well, just as ye like. We're a thousand dollars in, at the least, and if you squeal on us you'll only get yourself into hot water.” ‘We shall see! we shall see!” Andre snarled, as he arose and took his departure. ‘‘If I mis- take not, you'll wish you had done differently.” You'll have to bunt up ‘ou get a whistle Big Buckskin was waited upon by a number of the leading men of Bill’s Bonanza, and impor- tuned to aecept the captaincy of the ‘new Vigi- lance Committee which it was determined should be organized at once. ‘ After some hesitation, he consented to act in that capacity, and was given the privilege of choosing his own men. This was no easy thing, as he full well real- ized that he must study each man well, if he would make his party strong and trustworthy. During the day, while sauntering across the gulch, he suddenly encountered the giant, old Gulliver, who was sitting upona rock, evidently in deep meditation. “Hello!” Buckskin cried. ruminating about, Guiliver?” ‘“‘T war jest thinkin’ about the ups an’ downs 0’ this hyar flickerin’ candle o’ life. Fer in- stance, last night I got up on my ear, and turned about an’ went down on my back, quicker’n a cat can spit. Queer world! The giants aire babies,now-a-days, an’ the babies aire giants!” ** Yes, there is some truth in that. It ain’t always the biggest horse that pulls the most. By the way, Gulliver, 1 am quietly organizing a Vigilance Committee, for the purpose of captur- ing the road-agents. I want men whom I can “What are you | jmplicitly rely on, arid who are not afraid to a a ES A SE SE - e e eeee ee — S$ fight, if necessary. I have already secured sev- eral, and I judge you're another recruit I need!” The bullwbacker looked astonished, ‘See hyar!” he grumbled, * I kin stand a good deal of chaffin’, but I can’t stand everything.” ‘*But I mean what I say. You ain’t so bad a pilgrim as you look, an’ t know thar is lote o’ ood in you if you Lut let it be coaxed out. What do you say? Will you join us, and swear fidelity to our cause?” Gulliver took off his hat and scratched bis matted head. “Waal, durned ef I know what tew do, You give me a swipe across my mouth, and then blacked my eye—an’ now ye want me ter jine ye in aracket, when Lorter jump onter ye an’ tread on ye! Dunno but ye give me what I de- served, however. Hadn't no bizness to go rub- bin’ around an ’arthquake, Reckon I'll jine y-, providin’ ef I git licked by ary other galoot, you'll take my part.” ‘It’s a bargain,” said Buckskin. ‘Now, an derstand that you are to pretend ,to be my ene- my all the time, and if you are besought to join a gang of outlaws, sail in and join, and report to me where they are located. We'll thin in and capture ’en).” ‘An’ I’m to appear like | war mad at ye, hey ?” Sony Cat? ‘But thar’s to be none o’ yer shoulder-bit- tin’!” ‘Of course not. Well leave that entirely out of the matter. I’m yours to command.” ‘“Wull, then, ye can count me in, I'm as squar’ +s a king, an’ ye kin depend on me.” *‘T knew it, pard, and I trust you.” Big Buckskin then gave him a few instructions and returned to the heart of the camp, feeling that he had achieved a victory in securing the giant on his side. On bis arrival at the Bonanza, Little Bill was behind the bar, and engaged in arranging the bottles and dusting things off in general, — ‘Well, young man, how are you this morn- ing?’ Buckskin asked, as he approached. * First-rate,” Billy replied, stiffly, not forget- ting his foresworn vengeance on the man w would not give bim a chance to ‘* blow off,” and as he spoke he pointed to a placard upon the bean bore the significant reminder, ‘‘ No rust. 4 Bi ; Buckskin gave vent to a. prolonged whistle. : “ Well, dash your impudence,” he said. “Who asked you for trust?” *Humph! you did! Fellers as wants tick allus tries to play upsofton me. But, ‘twon’t work, Can’t no more shet my eye up than ye kin arn a hen the mulierplication o’ compound — fractions. “Scuse me, ef ye’ve got any cash.” “Presumably I have fnopes to see me through,” Buckskin replied. ‘‘1 wished to in- quire if there gre any letters here for me?” “Dunno. Who aire you!” - * Big Buckskin.” : “No letters here for you, then.” 7 “T also have another name—Joseph Wilton.” ‘Then, here’s a letter fer ye. Gal jest left it awhile ago,” ‘ And he handed the sport a delicate letter, with the name ‘‘ Joseph Wilton” directed ina delicate style of chirography. Big Buckskin did not have to ask a deserip- tion of the person who left it, for he readily r.- cognized the handwriting. , From io. m-drop, sugar-an’-molasses gal, eh?” Little Bill remarked, tantalizingly. **Know what it is to be in luy wi’ one o’ them aire. Used to have my eye sot on a pretty In- jun squaw, but I couldn’t raise enough hosses ter buy her?” : Buckskin made no answer, but sat down on a settee, lit a cigar, and peer se open the epistle and glanced at its conten! ; lt read.as follows: “Mr. Josern Witton, Sm:—Our sudden meetin, last evening was as much of & was to you, and I ean assure you that I am sorry for it, for your presumption in addres: me I cousider an unpardonable offense. I ain lcth to believe that you are so insaue as to think that I could ever be t ¢ to you. My childish indiscretion in marry- rae vorewill eoqn.be dissolved by divorce, and then I shall be at liberty to marry agai n. “T trust you will be gentleman enough to remain: silent, as Tean never care for you, and should be ed were:I ever compelled to to one so far neath me in social standing. wy! “T write this in order that no_ interview may ever be pecessary, and hoping we will remain strangers, as ever. Aones ANDRE!” A faint smile curved the lips of the bucks in: sport as he tore the letter into shreds. bit +> spoke not. rise to me as it
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10 The glitter in his eyes, however, indicated that the letter had not made a very favorable im- pression upon him, so far as his recreant wife was Concerned, CHAPTER VIIL SWCCUMBS AND SO DOES JACK DOCK. Later that day Sir Royal Rignold, tired of the house, managed to crawl out for a stroll about the gulch, although he was too lame and sore te undergo very much exercise. He was furious, too, that he had allowed him- self te be dissaaded from challenging the band- some sport, Big Buckskin, for he smarted with chagrin at the treatment he bad received. Preud and arrogant, as befitted his title and position, it was like gall and wormwood to be so worsted. by a man of no rank—an American rough—as he considered Buckskin to be. Hardly satisfied was he yet, but what he should take the liberty of breaking his promise to Agnes Andre, and bring the sport to account. With such thoughts in mind he sauntered though the gulch, and paid little attention to where he was going, until he suddenly found himself in the presence of Denver Doll, who was plucking a bouquet of wild flowers, a profusion of which grew in the gulch. “Ah! excuse me!” he said, tipping his hat. ‘*Hope my intrusionis pardonable. But really, tis a most pretty picture tosee one so young and Hori oa in the pastime of flower gather- ing ** Sir!” Denver Doll retorted, coldly. ‘‘ You will please keep your flattery to yourself. I do net know you.” “That matters not. It’s an easy thing to get uainted, you know. I am Sir Royal Rignold, helton Castle, Derbyshire, England.” “You don’t say so!” Doll retorted, with biting sarcasm, ‘‘ Why didn’t you say you were the Prince of Wales. It would have had just as little effect. As for getting acquainted with me, that is im ible. Go and waste your praises on Miss Andre, who no doubt has time to listen to taffy talk.” ; “Oh, no! One tires who pays constant atten- mn. * And that’s mid ou left the banks of famed Killarney, is it?” Doll fired back. Sir Royal’s face grew white in an instant, rks his gaze became sternly riveted upon her ace. “What do you mean?’ he demanded in a husky tone. ‘Speak girl—what do you mean?” “Oh, nothing, only I allow you’d look much better back on the ould sod, a-feedin’ av ther pigs an’ ther chickens!” Doll answered carelessly, as she resuméd the making of her bouquet. “T am not an Irishman, but a lineal descen- dant of royalty,” he said, loftily. ‘“ You Americans are very backward in understanding and politeness, In England a peasant deems it the hight of honor to be addressed by one of the nobility like myself.” Doll burst in a loud laugh. “So you count yourself some pumpkins, eh?” she responded. ‘‘ Well! well! I don’t know why it We American girls don’t care an more for a conceited galoot wi’ a Sir to his name, than a thoroughbred high-toned hoss-fly cares for a burro. ain’t the title that makes a man hyer, but the man himself. now, please move on. I do not want your acquain- tance. If you don’t move, Pll call Big Buck- SBE wae epost {heisa R “You bet he’s »PUPPY. enough to lick any Johnny Bulldog! It rejoined. ‘‘Come! move on!” And to enforce her order, she drew a revolver menacingly, at which the knight moved off, growling unintelligibly as he did so, While Denver Doll muttered to herself: “The first seed planted, and I think it will BUCKSEEN MUR- a of grow. How quick he changed color when I oe gee rae ‘Eillarney, the home of Nellie elly. _ She spoke truly. The seed had been planted in the breast of Sir Royal, and was quick to grow. : “ What does that woman, or girl, rather, know about me and my past?’ he mused, as he strolled on. “She cleverly turned off the hint, but it hardly deceived me. She meant to put me in mind of that Irish girl [ was so foolish as to mar Egad! can she have followed me here? If so, I'll murder her!” The matter grew more and more momentous to him, and weighed upon his mind until he grew fairly desperate, It was about the time he had reached this / | CREED Sea, aie ‘ei Ba be eM tals Selah ee el OE ie eae Bre “ Denver Doll’s Decoy. stage of feeling that a voice in his ear gave him a violent start. “ Ex-ke-use, sir, but will you loan me your at- tention a moment?. My name is Gum—George Washington Gum, general canvassing agent for all the leading works on psychology, physiology, electricity, useful knowledge, literature and sci- ence. 1 have a be utiful little volume here, en- titled ‘How to Put On Airs.’ Now, my dear sir, judging by your appearance, this volume would be most happily adapted to your require- ments.” Sir Royal turned and gazed in astonishment at'the superannuated book-agent—the same sleek, glib-tongued man it was who had invaded the outlaws’ retreat several weeks before; but, if anything, he looked more lean and lank now than at that first appearance. ‘* Away with you, vagabond!” Sir Royal or- dered, haughtily. ‘‘What do you imagine I could want with your trash?” “But you don’t understand,” G. W. Gum went on, unabashed. ‘I have books adapted to every peculiar phase of human character, and for allages. Here’s what you are seriously in need of—‘ How to Be Polite.’ Now you couldn’t study a more useful work. I have also a useful work—‘ The Butcher’s Manual ’—tells -you how to kill hogs, and so forth. But, the best of all, here’s a new work just in press—‘The Rogues and Rascals of London,’ founded on authentic facts and brought down to the present day, in- cluding the bistory of the noted counterfeiter, Jack De Haven!” And the book-agent took out a publication list and began an examination of it carefully. With a face as white as marble, Sir Royal Rignold had turned hastily and walked away toward the Andre shanty. Apparently, George Washington Gum did not discover this act until he had finished a search of the list, when he looked up and saw Sir Royal several rods distant. Then a low laugh escaped his lips and he shuf- fled off toward the Bonanza Hotel, in the office of which he met Big Buckskin and Denver Doll. “Hello! what have we here—a Zulu, as I live!” Doll laughed, at the sight of the curious specimen of humanity, which the agent \really was. “No! no! fair lady—you mistake. I am sim- ply George Washington Gum—a general agent for all the latest book adem eae of the day. Can’tI sell you a work on how to make love, oyster puddin’s, apple dumplings, or how to get married, settle down and become happy ?” ‘Some other day, Georgie. Buckskiy, can’t you buy something?” “ Bh? Buckskin, did you say?’ Gum demand- ed, eagerly. ‘Of course—Big Buckskin, the best man of his inches in the West. Why?’ ‘“‘ Then he’s the very feller I want to see,” the agent declared, extending his bony hand. “ Mr. Buckskin, it does me proud to meet you! I have been lookin’ for you far and wide, because I have a dumfounding revelation to make to ‘ou! ; “Ts that so?” the sport asked, dryly. ‘‘ Weil, what is it?” ‘‘ Ex-ke-use, but if I tell you, I dare say you will compensate me for the valuable time I oc- cupy in telling you?” ‘Of course, if your revelation is of any im- ance!” Buckskin answered. “ Then come to some private apartment where there are no prying ears, and 1 will unfold!” Accordingly he was shown by Doll into a pri- vate room in the rear of the office, where all three became seated. ‘Now, then, ahead!” Big Buckskin or- dered. ‘If you have anything to say that is worth listening to be quick about it!” ‘Exactly. Quick sales and small profits is my motto. You are Big Buckskin, or other- wise Ee ae of “You have heard of a gang of desperadoes known as the Murdock Brothers?” “T have.” “You also know a minister named Jubal Andre?” “ Yes.” “Married his daughter?” “‘Correct.” “Don’t live with her?” “No!” Buckskin answered the questions rather hesi- tatingly. He was aware that the gaze of Denver Doll was fixed upon him in a stare of surprise. “Well,” G. W. Gum went on, ‘some weeks ago I chanced to drop into the den of these Murdocks, hoping to sell one of my valuable works. While there there came a rap, and’ J was importuned to wait behind a screen.” “Yes. Go on.” ‘‘ Well, while there I was a silent witness to a deadly compact. Of the visitors there were three—Jubal Andre, his daughter, and an Indian named Red Eagle.” Big Buckskin whistled. He was beginning to caich the drift of what the revelation was to be. “Go ahead!” he commanded, eagerly. ‘* Well, this Jubal Andre did all the tatkin’ for his side, and the object of his visit was to hire the Murdocks to put two persons out of the way—namely, you and your son. He stated that his daughter was desirous of marrying an Eng:ish aristocrat, but could not do so until you and the child were silenced.” *¢ And the boy—-my son—where did he say he could be found?’ ‘* He did not state definitely, but said the boy was roving somewhere through the West with a female companion.” “Thank Heaven, he is alive then! I will now search to the ends of the earth but what I'l find him. But, goon! Was a contract made?” “Yes, The captain of the gang agreed te put you out of the way for athousand dollars down and another thousand when the job was done.” ‘“Humph! Jubal Andre is playing a high game!” the sport muttered, rather grimly. “Ts that all?’ “Yes, Imade my escape then, with the re- solve to hunt yeu up and warn you.” Big Buckskin took several gold pieces from his pocket and tossed them into the lap of the book-agent. by You deserve to be paid and to receive thanks too, ; Gum slipped the gold pieces into his pocket with a satisfied grin and arose. ‘Much obleeged to you,” he said. ‘I'd give up canvassing if I could catch on to such a snap every day.” When he was gone Denver Doll remarked: ““That fellow ain’t what he seems, I am going to watch him,” Buckskin smiled. ‘«He’s a traveling Bohemian, who lives on his wits,” he assumed. ‘‘He has, however, done me a favor of no mean proportions, I will be more wide awake than before.” ‘You will need to be. I am very much in- terested in your case, and will help you all £ can. “Thenk you. You have already won my sincere gratitude. One knows how to appreci- aie kindness after being buffeted about the world. My marriage to Agnes Andre proved to be a most unhappy one, and I have often wished myself dead,’ “Say not so. Life should not be made a bur- den to one, no matter what disappointments come.” “ Wero I free, I perhaps might think the same as you: but, tied by my marriage vows, and also guided by a desire for my only child, I of course have naught todo but remain—a fool, perbaps!” He was silent a moment, and then went on: “TI need not necessarily lead this wild life, for I could retire into the quiet of a peaceful existence, with a paar gery to subsist. upon. But for the enjoyment I would have I might as well shut myself up ina prison, for in either place I would be equally alone. I say this to you because, somehow, in the few hours of our acquaintanceship I have grown to regard you as a friend.” “You are right in doing so. I am a friend of every hovest, right-minded person. Cbeer up. Something may occur that will make a change in your life. In the mean time let me manage your case, and in the end I will surprise you. I know a few things that you are not aware of, and if I mistake not, my little schemes wilk eventually be fraught with happiness for you- I’m also working up a case for a big English estate, in which Sir Royal Rignold is concerned, along with several others.” “ Humph! the less ee have to do with that case the better you'll be off. This Rignold is the puppy who aspires to the hand of my wife. Let him go! After he gets her he'll be sorry enough.” 3 “Probably. But leave it to me, and I will work some resul’s that will p= you.” “Very well. Go ahead; I will remain inac- tive, and give you full sway. You already have excited my admiration, not only for your- _ self, but for your indomitable pluck; and give you fair warning not to do too much for me!’ . “J will try not to,” Doll answered, arising with a mischievous laugh.
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— Denver Doll’s Decoy. Then they seporated, Denver Doll going in search of Little Bill, and Big Buckskin retiring to his room. Later in the day, as Denver Doll stood upon the veranda of the Bonanza, watching the busy throng as it moved through the gulch, a man | came sauntering along, with swaggering gait, as if ho felt the importance of his rather flashy attire. Denver Doll’s eyes were on him before he was near her, and her gaze never left his face until he was about passing, when she spoke. € Jack!” He turned, as if electrified. ** Jack!” she repeated, Her eyes had met his now, and were burning with unnatural brilliancy. The man seemed to tremble as he stood, his eyes never leaving hers. “Jack!” she repeated again, and this time sternly. ‘Down, Jack!” For an instant it seemed as if he was under- going a terrible mental struggle; then a sickly smile came over his face, and he dropped upon his knees. “Up Jack!” she ordered, a moment later. He arose like magic. “Come!” she said, turning and entering the hotel office. And Jaek Murdock, of the notorious Murdock Brethers, followed her, as a trained dog would have fellowed its master. CHAPTER IX. BOLL’S CAPTURE AND SAL’S NEW DEAL. Tuer pewer which Denver Doll held over the out- law was mesmeric, and she had him so under her call that she could make him obey her at will. Several years ago, before he joined his brother in ther career of crime, he had been Denver Doll's youthful lover, and it was at this time that she had discovered her wondrous power over him, and had practiced it a number of times, more for the novelty of the thing than for any other reason, 8o.that she had made Jack Murdock her slave for life, no matter where they ht meet. ~ Doll led the way to the apartment in the rear of the office, and the young outlaw meekly followed, and became seated at the girl’s motion, She then knelt in front of him and drew a revol- ver, after which she passed one hand to and fro be- fore his face. This motion ap, to have the effect of break- ing the 2 for he gave a violent start as he saw her there holding the weapon leveled at his breast. “Jack Murdock, I have got you!" she said, tri- umphantly. “Eh! is it you, Doll? What brought me here?” and he gazed around him in a sort of dazed way. “The same old power, Jack?’ was the answer, at which a eer shiver passed over him. * Yes,’ Doll went on, “Isaw you coming up the street, and allowed that you were a fish worth snar- ing; so I told you to.come in, and you came right along like a little man.” Jack growled out an oath. What do you propose to do with me?" “Use mes ence- Fedeors you, if possible. You are leading a , criminal life, and 'm going to make you give it up and betray your gang into custody.” “Never! I'd die before I'd go packon a pal. Even you can't nake me do that.” “But I can, though, and don't you forget it! You os aug what 1 will—how are you going to help your- self?” “It would be mean of you to take advantage of your infernal power over me and cause me to bring my own brother to the gallows!” he growled. *Not a bit of it! Your brother his gang have done many deeds far meaner than that, and the law wants ‘em, as an example to other evil-doers. Tell me, now, wouldu’t a free, honest life be better than a life crowned with the knowledge that you are an outcast and a villain, whom every honest person turns from in horror?’ “Dunno but you're right. But I couldn’t never give Burk up to the law, nohow ye can make it.” “ But I say you shall, or D'll arrest you right here, and cast you into confinement. Bill's Bonanza is a new town, and ye know how new towns deal out jus- tice, I dare say!" “ 4 Ta and be cussed. I'll never squeal on our “But consider. Iean throw you into the trance again, and then make es tell me alll want to know, and arrest you in the bargain. . So you see. I've got you anyway.” A sullen, dogged expression came over the young outlaw’s face. “Go ahead and do your worst. I'll never go back on a pal with my Own consent.” “We'll find out!”’ Doll muttered, beginning to work the spell on him again. In an incredibly short space of time he was thoroughly mesmerized and in her power. “ Now, then, tell me where the present rendezvous of the gang is,”’ she commanded, sternly. He did not answer. ~ , ‘There wss a set, determined expression upon his face, and a shiver traversed his frame. | her, well knowing that it would be impossible for | laugh. “Curses on thatinfernal power you hold over me! | “Speak!” Doll cried, stamping her foot. “How dare you disobey me?” i Still no answer, but, in its place, that dogged si- | ence. This convinced Doll that she had overrated her power to some extent. Fearful that he might shake | off the influence of the spell, she ey procured a air of handcuffs and made him powerless, so far as is hands were concerned. This done, she brought him once more out of the trance, His rage knew no bounds when he discovered that his hands were bound. “Gurse you, Denver Doll! Little I thought, when I used to know you, that you would ever turn against me thus.” “Nor did I think that you would turn into a life of crime and misery, I offered you a fair chance, but you refused; od, accordingly, it is my duty to ar- rest you.” “Goahead. You couldn’t make me peach on my pals, an’ I never will. They'll get me out.” “We shall see to it that they don’t. For the pres- ent, I shall keep you locked up in this room, Here you will be safe. If you attempt to create a racket ‘ll come in and gag you.” She then left the room and locked the door after Jack to escape without outside assistance. And she further believed that, after due delibera- tion, he would change his mind and come to terms, rather than run the risk of getting his head into Judge Lynch’s merciless noose, Little Bill was always wide awake and about town, when not on duty at the hotel, and if there was any- thing going on that was worth seeing he was gener- ally on hand, bout sunset that day, as he stood on the banks of the gulch creek speculating as to whether or no the roily waters contained any of the finny tribe, he heard angry words close at hand, and crept to the cover of a clump of bushes near uy A moment later Sir Royal Rignold and Agnes An- dre came into view, and yaused near where Bill had stood, “T tell you I am not ready yet!” the latter said, impatiently. “You will have to ave me time.” “T have no time to give!” Rignold declared, sharp- ly. “Something has occurred that makes it imper- ative that I should return to England at once,” “What?” “Oh! it don’t matter what.” “But I say it does. I won't have a man who won't tell me his secrets."’ “Then it’s settled, Sir Royal Rignold will never be bossed by any woman; set you heart at rest on that! Iwill give you half an hour to decide, me to-morrow — or never!" “Oh! I don’t know what to say. I don't know whether pepe will consent to a hasty marriage." ae Humph! he’s only too glad to marry you off well.” Agnes Andre did not answer. Her gaze instinct- ively wandered toward the Bonanza hotel, where the handsome sport, Big Buckskin, was pacing to and fro across the veranda. Sir Royal saw her > directed toward the sport, and he seized her wrist fiercely. “Oh! so (hit is why you hesitate about a ‘speedy marriage, is it?" he “Tell me, girl; what is there between him and you?” “ Nothing!’ Agnes replied, with a dry, harsh “Twas just wondering if you could grow into such a rough creature.” “Never fear; Sir Royal Rignold is none of your low American stock, Do you know, if I thought you were anything to that fellow I'd kill your” “ But Lam not] “Never was?"’ “Never was!" “Well, I must believe you, [ suppose. But how about the answer?” “It is yes, guess, You must take me as I am.” “Of course. bt on set the time—to-morrow evening, at nine o'c! % Then there was an exchange of kisses, after which they walked aw: ar 5 And Little Bill crept from his covert, grinning rom ear to ear. “Golly! we're goin’ to have a rep lar hitchin’“u) match fer sure!" he ejaculated. ‘*Reckon my Dollbaby, would like ter know about ‘hat.”’ And accordingly, he went back to the Bo oop told the Detective Queen what he had seen aod eard, Doll was not surprised, nor did she say much about the matter; but she kept up a terrible think- ing, and was constantly forming plans in her mind for the achievement of the victory she expected to win, On her return to the shanty, Agnes Andre private- y made known to her father the desire of ae aga, or an immediate consummation of their nup 5 “Well! what did you say?” the old rogue asked, anxiously. ‘“*T said yes, as a matter of course,’’ Agnes replied. “T cannot afford to lose a handsome fortune, even if I do run a little risk.” “You are right there. But, mind you, there’s something strange in sudden action on Sir Royal’s part, I fancy the fellow has some secrets of his own which a would not wish others, to know.” “Perhaps, But, pshaw! what need I care, afier I am once Lady Rignold, of Chelton, Castle, I can } then tame him down to suit my own notion.” And both father and daughter laughed. hi ee “T have come to no fixed conclusion how we are going to get rid of Big Buckskin!’ Jubal Andre went on. “JI saw Burk Murdock this morning, and he refused to do anything without two thousand dollars more be paid into his hand. That I flatly re- fused to do.” “Why? You could well afford to have paid that, after what you made off of Sir Royal.” “Not much! I’m going to look out for myself with that money, you bet! Tf you want to pay any more do it out of your own pocket!” “You well understand that I have no money,” Agnes protested. “if you don’t fix matters up, you know what the result will be. You'll have your daughter back on your hands in an incredibly short space of time.” Jubal Andre uttered a growl, and was about to give some sour answer, when there came a loud rap on the door, “Come in!” he called out, supposing it was the Chinese servant whom he had sent on an errand. The door promptly opened, and Sa) Slap, the pro- prietress of the Guzzler’s Glory, made her appear- ance. Jubal Andre and Agnes could but utter exclama- tions of astonishment, for the old hag was by far the ugliest looking creature they ever had on to meet. “Don't be skeart,” Sal said, with a grotesque! horrible grin, as she helped herself to a seat. “ know I ain’t as purty as a noddin’ blue-bell, bur that_don’t make no difference. I’m old Sal Slap, and I'm a screamer, and downright proud of it, too. How ye gittin’ on, Jubal—you an’ yer » Who has grown inter a right peart lady, ef I do say it?” ““Woman, I don’t know you. Begone, orl’)! have you locked up for a lunatic!” Andre cried, feeling alarmed, evidently. “Don't know me, hey?’ Sal went on, taking out a box, and helping herself to a pinch of snuft. “Well, I dare say not, for I’ve grown prettier as. my years advanced, an’ had heaps o’ experience, Aggie, thar, looks natteral, however, and you would, only you're cultivatin’ a red nose, n't remember Dorothy, do ye?” And she uttered aa Rae laugh! Jubal Andre uttered an oath. “You are not Dorothy!” he declared. “Reckon I ain't no one else, tho’ since I left yer employ, I've been roughing it under the handle of Sal Slap. Hain’t quite so purty, but I’m a heap: smarter than I was then)” “For Heaven's sake! A terrible change has cer~ tainly come over you. What are you doing herve, woman’ Explain poursety ; he Guzzler’s Glory hyar in Bill's habitants, “IT am keepin’ t Bonanza, of which I'm one of the first The object o’ my present call is jest to renew ac- quain' ip, ye see. Et does my eyes ter see ye both, fer fe know, Jubal, I alles. did have a sort o’ hankerin’ arter ye,” ; *Enou hes Myce agree hay are an vers rr, rol and your de re wou give mea eat relief.” * rl our peevishness, Jubal. J know you mean all right. ut if you don’t, ye orter know better than to buck against me. I can do ye piles of harm bie at pres- ent, if ye come any o’ your stuck-up d ye around me. I hear yer is goin’ to be married tew a lord, duke, or some other high-fangled cuss. Bet a cookie he is as innocent as a clam regardin’ Aggie’s first aay The Andres both winced. secret Tl murder ad c : “Oh, no! I'm allers heeled, I'm gittin’ new no~ tions inter my head, too. I’m tired o' roughing it, and apie to live in the rest o' my days. I've got a leetle spare cash, but want more, an’ it's only natteral thet you should want to furnish it, arter all I've done fer you an’ yer darter Aggie." “Not a cent will ye from me, and you car swear to it,’ Jubal Andre retorted. “ You got your pay .ongs. RP ad pa do you want?” ving, w m going to get, or squeal—cash |" the hag declared. “ Bs snr be got the dead wood on ye, and ef ye don’t come to Limerick I'm going to make ye dance? Ye'll remember the hoy is alive yet what ye hired me to murder!” : a Where?" Jubal Andre hissed. _ Where I can Boduce him without much trouble. Now, may be Sir ‘oyal, as he is called, would like to adopt the kid, along wi’ Aggie?’ “Furies take you, woman! If the existence of ‘a chil out!” and Andre’s face was white with its vengeful. “Tf you betray the ion. , ‘A tough old time you'd have at it. My heart is” a hardened one,” “How much do you want to kill the boy and keep your mouth shut?" “Waal, I allow a thousand dollars would cover my mouth, But as fer ther boy, durn me ef I'll hurt him. He’s as cute as a squirrel, he is.” “ Bither you put the boy out of the way or get ne asi “ Then I'll squeal.” “Do so at your 17 Sal Slap uttered a horrid laugh, “Well, think as you lke,” she sneered. “If 1 hain’t handed an envelope wi’ a $1,000 note in it ter- night I'll squeal.” ; She then took her leave. Jubal Andre and his daughter faced each other with startled expressions. “Tt's wap eee? close quarters,” he snarled. * seh ey Ns to 4 opamthing. 4 ‘Curse es rothy my si azgards. Is) have to buy ber.” 2 ae eee ell, DOV that’s curious. ButI don’t mind ou dare to hint id to him Til'tear your heart.” i
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* And Big Buckskin—" “Ts here!" a voice answered, as a man stepped into the shanty. “I am glad to be just in time to participate in the arrangements for my disposal." CHAPTER X. BURK MURDOCK STRIKES AND GETS STRICKEN. ‘Tur sudden appearance of Big Buckskin, caused Jubal and Agnes Andre to leap to their feet in con- sternation, ’ ‘The faces of both grew white, and they stood lit- erally at bay, as if expecting an attack. Buekskin advanced into the room, and closed the door behind him, after which he placed his back against it, a strange, hard smile coming over his features. “ Well, you seem to be surprised,” he said. La bear, that you stare at me, so?” “You are an intruder, here!’ Jubal Andre re- torted sternly. “ Can’t see how you make that out. I believe it is customary for one to visit one’s wife, and daddy-in- law, occasionally.” * Begone, man! You have no such claim on me. “ Am Begone! I say, or 1 will have you east back into | prison from which you have escaped.” “Ha! ha! That was liberal of you to provide for | me, eight years, wasn’t it? But as it happens, now, | { remained in jail about two weeks, A homeless chap wanted a permanent place to stay in and TI let him try his hand on mine. So you see, you got left on that calculation as you will fact, you are getting pretty close to the end of your rope.” “You are possibly mistaken!’ Jubal Andre sneered, “ Not a bit of it!’ the sport replied, coolly. ‘‘ De- spite the noble plot of yourselt and my exquisite bride, to kill me, I am still alive. The Mardocks are evidently not disposed to tackle a man whom they have been dodging for some time.” Jubal Andre grew livid with rage, for he knew that the sporthad in some strange way made him- self aware of their infamous compact. Big Buckskin went on, coolly: “] just overheard you mention something about making a disposal of me, and as I am quite inter- panier Se such matter I'd like to have you state your plan, “If you mind your business, you_ will likely fare all right!’ André growled. “But if you meddle in our affairs, you’ rue it. My daughter does not like you, and desires you to keep as much out of her sigist as is possible.” “Tam aware of her very affectionate feelings to- ward me,’ was the taunting answer, ‘It is a pity she ean love only me, when so many poodles and snobs need her attention, But, by the way, I hear that the fair es is about to marry the English manikin who calls himself Sir Royal Rignoldy” “ You are misinformed!" Agnes returned, hangh- tily. “Until I get a divorcee, you probably under- stand that I cannot marry any one, unless fortune should will it that you die, soon!’ * Fortune, presumedly, will not aceominodate you, in this respect. However, | came to warn you that Iam aware of your design to put me out of the way, and any move in that direction will be frus- trated, and you'll find yourself cast into jail. A word to the wiseis sufficient!” He turned and left the shanty. As he was crossing the gulch, toward the Bonanza, an arrow sent with great speed, just grazed the tip of his ear. Wheeling, he was just in time to see a figure dodge down out of sight, behind a large bowlder, and it required no second thought to couvince him that it was the vindictive Red Hagle. Drawing a revolver, he dropped upon his knees, and crept toward the rock, keeping his gaze on the alert, 80 as not to allow the savage to escape. To reach the bowlder behind which the savage was concealed, a number of clumps of bushes had to be skirted; in passing them, Buckskin had no thought of enemies being concealed therein, until— suddenly he felt himself borne flat to the earth, with a welght upon his back of several human bodies, and a hand was clapped over his mouth. In quick time he was helplessly bound and gagged and undisputably a prisoner of the Murdock Broth- ers. It was now evident that the arrow fired by Red Eagle had only been sent as a decoy to lure Big » Buckskin into the Murdocks’ trap, for the warrior now skulked forward with a demoniac grin. “You smuggle him off down the trail,” were Burk Murdock’s orders to his companions, ‘*‘and guard him closely in the cave, while I go and hunt up Jack and make terms with Andre, Curious what has become of Jack!” He then left them to get the prisoner out of the town, without attracting attention, while he went more into the heart of the camp in search of Jack, who, asthe reader knows, Denver Doll had locked up in the room at the Bonanza Hotel. Aftera deal of inquiry, by which he succeeded in learning nothing satisfactory, he came to the Bo- nanza Hotel, just as Denver Doll was about entering it, in com mn with Little Bill, Burk Murdock was ignorant of the fact that the Detective Queen had been intimate with his brother, but knowing her profession, he did not care to con- verse with her. But the moment she saw him she called out: “ Hello there! Looking for some one?” He turned with a start, but quickly recovered his com) re. * Who said I was Iukin’ fer any one?” he demand- ed, and then wheeled and stalked on. Denver Doll's Decoy. on all others, In | } @ar, Denver Doll sprung down the steps and drew a revolver, ; He faced about, however, with a cocked weapon leveled at her. “Ourse you!” he roared, “Uli blow your—” The remainder of the sentence was drowned by the report of his weapon. Denver Doll tottered back, the bullet having grazed the cap of ber left shoulder, and her weapon drop- ped to the ground, Murdock cocked his weapon quickly, with the evident intention of finishing the job, but just then resounded two distinct pistol reports, and Burk Murdock, the noted desperado, threw up his hands and took his last breath as he fell to earth. One shot Little Bill had fired, and that had struck the outlaw in the thigh; the ‘other, which had pierced bis brain, had been sent by the unerring aim of no less a personage than George Washington Gum, who had opportunely been approaching the hotel from another direction. A erowd quickly gathered about, and the excite- ment naturally ran high. * Who is this fellow?” several asked. “JT can answer that question!’ Denver Doll cried, walking forward with an effort. ‘‘ That man is, or rather was, Burk Murdock, leader of the notorious Murdock Brothers—for he is now dead!” * And I, George Washington Gum, was the feller ter put the rat-hole in his temple. Gents, my mis sion here is as a book-agent. Lrepresent the leading wublishing houses of the country. I have a de-uti- ul volume here, entitled the * Art of Shooting,’ also ‘How to Make Love,’ ‘How to Play Games,’ ‘How to Eat,’ ‘How to Conduct Funerals in fact, any- thing and everything. Who wants to buy?" But the excitement was too great for Gum to push his case successfully. The news quickly spread throughout the town that the notorious Burk Murdock had been killed, and there was rejoicing among the majority of the populace, So excited did the rougher element grow that the | body of the unfortunate man wes strapped to one end of along hickory pole, and it was raised and planted amid thundering cheers! Wild ana unfecling, these men who participated in this unseemly celebration numbered a majority, | and the minority did not dare interfere. Fifty feet above terra firma was Burk Murdock, at least, if he never got any further toward the gates of the Eternal City, and a most novel and striking example, too, of the vengeance of the men of Bill's Bonanza upon their enemies. After declaring the identity of the outlaw, Denver Doll went into the hotel, and got Nelly Kelly to dress her wound, after which she went forth into the gulch, again, feeling all right. The sight of the elevated corpse of Burk Murdock rave her a start, and she used her influence to have it taken down, but all to no avail. The idea was yociferously vetoed, She was searching about for Big Buckskin, when she met the giant, the self-styled Gulliver, from Liliput. “Glad Uve met ye," be said, calling her to one | sidé, ‘Bin Inkin’ fer ye, me fairy Litiputian. they've cotched the desperado.” Doll nodded without speeking. She did not admire the huge human—or thpust him —-in any particular. “Waal, that’s good, See, I an’ Buckskin made up friends, an’ he delegated me as one o° his Wizer- lants, an’ ef some one hadn‘t ’a’ fixed the chap yon- der, | should, By the way, thar’s bizness ahead!" “What kind?” “Why, reg'lar quorum biz. Buckskin is?’ . “No, [have been searching for him.” D ye know whar Big See; | “Waal, he is captered, an’ run off by the rest 0° | Murdock’s gang. self, but dasn’t move for fear I'd git a buzzer in my Heard Burk, yander, order em to take him to a cate, down the gulch, an’ they dragged him away, but they ain't goin’ ter kill him till the captain j'ines ‘em. Ef they hear o’ the captain's death they Il most likely carve him up to onc’t.” “You are right, You shall be rewarded for this, Gulliver. Come with me. this cave’is, for I heard him tell of it one day. We'll have those outlaws yet.”’ She sought our Liftle Bill, and made known to him Gulliver's report “Yas, I know the place,” he declared. “It is a deep cavern twenty feet up the mountain side, wi’ & big ledge overhangin’ it, an’ a similar ledge in front of it. Bet I know a capertal pian! fellers take a round-about way an’ git on_top the ledge, fromm whar they can peer down onto the lower ledge. I'll git down the gulch an’ scream out like a woman w’ot’s got conniption fits. The outlaws will rush out onto the lower ledge, to see what’s ther matter, an’ the fellers above cau drop down lassoes an’ hook *em up like fish.” * Bill, you're a genius. It shall be done.” “Hey hum! The babies is giants nowadays, an’ the giants is babies!” sighed Gulliver. The Detective Queen went quickly but que to work, and picked out the half-dozen men whom Buckskin had chosen for his Vigilance Committee, and ordered them to epee go down the gulch around the bend, as cautiously as possible, armed with weapons and lassoes, and there wait. CHAPTER ‘XI. A GENERAL SUSPENSION. Denver Dotu did not accompany the party, but put them under the guidance of ‘Little Bill, in whom she had grown to have all sorts of confidence. Gulliver from Lilliput also lingered behind, and See’d the whole purceedin’ my- | Little Bill knows where | | you to-night, perhaps. ‘aft when on being asked the reason why, he explained to Doll, whom he had followed to the hotel: ° *Wull, fairest Lulliputian, 1 will tell ye,” he said, disgorging a huge quid and hurling it out of doors; “Tflunbuzzom myself, so thet ye won't allow there's nothin’ cowardly about me. Ye see, mm in love- despritly in love, for the fust time in my life, an’ [ jedged aforehand that should I go inter battle an’ get salivated, I might never be able to reach the sumunit of my aspirations, Sol stayed behind An’ now, I want to ax a favor o’ you, mum.” “ What is it, Gulliver?’ Doll demanded in curiosity. “Why, ye see, I want ye ter intercede for me wi’ my dory, who don’t ’spicion that I keer fer one rib in her corset. I want ye jest to bitea hunk onto’ her wax-like ear, and then whisper to her thet I love her, hey got thirty pound o’ coined bar an’ three mules, and want to harness on ter her as my leader thru’ this weary vale o’ tears.” * But who is this amorita of your fancy, Gulliver?” “Whor Who else, indeed, but the queen of royat beauty, Sal Slap!” * What! that old termagant?” * Perzactly! Ef evyer thar war mortal business in mortal woman it sticks right out oy old Sal, by gum! An’ then, tew boot, she’s so pritty and fawn-like, that I allow she an’ me would make an excellent match.”” “Well, l'll see what I Gan do for you, by and by,” Doll said, turning away, her face clouded with anxiety and apprehension. She was apprehensive lest Big Buckskin might be killed ere assistance could reach him, forhe had told her that the Murdocks were his deadly enemies, anid would kill him at sight if they got a chance. And no wonder she was keenly worried about him, for she had grown to admire him greatly, and was not blind to the fact that the same feeling was in 1 measure returned by him. “T've one satisfaction,’’ she mused, as she entered the hotel. “If they do nof succeed in rescuing Buckskin, Jack Murdock shall swing for it.” She then went to the outlaw’s room. To her un bounded astonishment she found the door unlocked, and Mr. Jack minus. : For a moment she was tbunderstruck and he disappointment was keen. Then she set to work io find out how the outlaw procured liberation. “Me set "Melican man free,” John Wah, a do ’ “mestic, said, on being questioned. “ Findee ‘Melican in room—hear him callee; when pass door, Tink he lockee up by mistakee, an’ lettee him outee, alles same. Muchee ticklee bin.” Giving the stupid Celestial a cuff beside the hea:'. Doll went out of doors, but of course Jack Murdew< had taken all care to make his escape. It might on well be added right here, that he was never again seen around Bill’s Bonanza after that. Deeply excited and angered over the disappoint- ment, Doll turned about, when a wheezing voice spoke in her ear: * Excuse me, fair lady—my name is Gum—George Washington Gum, and I am introducing a number of valuable books—” * Go to blazes!" Doll eried. “ You cannot fool me with any of your book nonsense, Mr, Rack-a-bones! You'll have to pick up some other greeny.” “Tf Tam not what I represent, what do you take me for?” Gum demanded, rather tartly. “1 wonld be a difficult job to tell what you are,” Doll retorted, “* in some respects, but of one thing I am satistied—you are either a detective, or else a blamed fool!’ * | lay no claim to the latter calling, whatever.” “Then, you are a detective?” “Privately, to you, yes. I am John Stark, the London ‘shadow.’ TI would not tell you this, only I have noticed that you wear a U. 8S. badge.” ap | hanks for your confidence. Who are you here ny? * Sir Royal Rignold, better known in London as Jack De Haven, the forger — burglar.” “You don’tsay! And so this worthy knight is wanted by the law?” “Yes; Tam now daily awaiting a requisition from the Government, so that T can arrest him and take him back. I shall have to watch him closely or he will escape me yet.” “Not while Pm around. I'll corral the game for Walk back to the hotel wit) me, and I'll let you into my plans, which you'll agrer are good.” He obeyed, and as they sauntered along, Doll came toa full understanding with him, and _ar- ' rangements were made that will hereafterward be Let a gang 0’ | explained. Let us follow the Vigilantes, who had set out to capture the outlaws. t was not long after the Detective Queen had given them orders before they were all collected in the gulch below the bend, Litte Bill included. The stalwart, bearded miners looked down upon their youthful captain rather doubtfully, for he | didn’t appear much like one born to command: yet Doll had expressiy stipulated that the attack shonid be made under his direction. “Well, Bub, we're ready, an’ ef you're major- gineral, jest spit out yer orders,”’ one miner said, y. Bil squinted one eye and looked over his company critically. ‘ *Wull, I guess you'll all pass muster!” he ob- served. “I ‘spose you've all sed your catechisms, It’s best, tho’ ef ye foller my lead, I'll feteh ye out a-swimmin’, The cave’s down a ways furder. So come along as keerful as a fly in the butter.” And drawing a pistol, he led the march. Half a mile they proceeded, and then Little Bilt pointed wp the mouutain side.to a spot nearly &
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quarter of a mile distant, where two outcropping Jedges were visible. “The den is betwixt them two ledges,” he an- nounced, * an’ by takin’ the bear path that starts in bere, you can reach the upper ledge. Light out, now. | i Understanding the balance of the plan, the Vigi- | lantes began to ing 4 cautiously toward their desti- nation, while Little Bi skulked along the base of the gulch until be gained a good hiding-place in a clump of bushes, difectly beneath and opposite the mouth of the cave, He then waited until he heard the apparent scream | you up?” of a hawk, which warned him that the Vigilantes | were ready. 3ill then sent up a series of piercing screams, which were like those of a woman in dire distress. An instant later, from his concealment, he saw three white men and one Indian rush from the cave and gaze down into the gulch. At the same instant, four lassoes dropped with precision from above, and in. a moment more four outlaws were dangling between the upper and | flower ledges, Nor did the Vigilantes take the trouble to draw the victims to the upper ledge, but, instead, fastened the lariats so as to leave them suspended in mid-air. And thus they hung until life became extinct, and the Murdock band of desperadoes was no more. Little Bill was the first to reach and enter the cave, where he found Big Buckskin lying on his back, | securely bound, but otherwise unharmed. Buckskin embraced the boy warmly after his re- | leuse, and also heartily thanked the men he had | chosen for Vigilantes, not supposing, at the time, that they would be called upon to rescue him as their first service. After a search of the cavern the party set out on their return, On their arrival, the news of how Big Buckskin had been captured and rescued became generally known, and also the capture of the outlaws and their fate. Big Buckskin was much su wrised, too, when he found that Burk Murdock had on killed, and was mounted upon the pole, and at once ordered that the le cut down; but the people were too deci averse to this, and it was evident that the aerial spectacle must in for th blic’ - verial §) cle must remain for the public’s edifica | Buckskin would interfere and stop it, which would be disastrous, tion, During the evening, feeling in low spirits, evi dently, Sir Royal Rignold sought out one of the gam- bling dens, with the view of idling away a few hours. He was soon successful in securing a man to play with, and being an expert, it was not long ere he had quite astack of golden coin before him. The other fellow finally backed out and sought an- other table, He had hardly departed, when a rough-looking bumoyer approached the nobleman and helped bim- self to a seat, “Ello! Mr, Rignold. ’Ow's yer ’ealth?” he saluted, familiarly. * None of your business. What d’ye want?” Sir Royal demanded, savagely. “ Nothin’ much. I jest reckernized ye, and thor’t td make yer acquaintance, since I was sent here for that purpose, “You sent here!’ Sir Royal gasped, his face grow- ing a shade whiter, and a hunted glare coming into his eves. ‘ “ Yas,” the chap went on, “I was sent by Jim Sir Royal appeared both excited and relieved. , “ Indeed!" he said. “ What news did Brady send?” * Bad,” the other declared, grimly. “Stark, the London sleuth, is here after v0 “How do you know this?” “ Easy enough. I have seen him here in the:camp. As soonas he gets a requisition, he means to nab you without ior oy : “ Furies seized the fellow! Is he in disguise?” “Yes; he’s playin’ up book-agent as a blind.” “Then I have seen him.” “Probably. Now, there’s no time to lose let me tellyou. You want to skin out of this towu as live- ty as you know how.” “T cannot get away at once. Lam to marry Jubal Andre's daughter to-morrow night!" “ ou are & fvol!”” “Trepeat it—you are afool, Your Irish lassie is here!" “Bah! you lie!” , “No, Ido not. She is here, and waiting for the marriage-time, so that she can step forward and denounce you.” “Great Heaven! whatamI todo?” “Well, jest you follow my advice an’ I'll help you out. Bud Backas never went back on Jim Brady’s als yet.” Pee Well; what have you to propose?” Rignold ask- ed eagerly. . It was evident that he was anxious for some avenue of escape from the menacing peril.” “You are going to marry?’ a all means, yes!" “Then it must be very quietly and secretly done. The best plan would be tohave the ceremony per- formed in the gulch, outside of the town, where there would be no interruption, and from where you would ~~ your flight. noticed a suitable spot, half a mile up the gulch. You'd better ar to have the thing done up to-night, and get out of this vicinity.” r A “You are right, I guess. I will do so. Say nine, | | camp, H challenge you to meet me at the northern outskirts Denver Doll's Decoy. to-night, at the Indian picture rocks, half a mile up the gulch.” “All right. there at “Ve I'll undertake to have some horses that hour.” well. But, thereis another thing. you to put that Irish idiot out of the way!’ “Humph! I reckon not,’ Backus grunted. { want “T! ain’t no regular parson, I ain't: but I reckon I'm a | : leetle above committin’ murder.” *Pshaw! your scruples will have a fallsome day,” | Rignold gritted. ‘* Wouldn’t a hundred dollars stir | “No nor ten times that amount. I cannot be | bought to woman murder.” “Then tell me where the cursed woman is, and I'll do the job myself!” “Even that I cannot do, I was sent heer to warn ye an’ help ye escape the officers. That's as fur as { have anything todo with ye.” “Humph! I suppose you'll rocks to-night?” “ Of course.” “You can go then.” And the rough-looking individual arose and shuf- po off while Sir Royal lit a cigar and left the sa- oon. “T would that I were a thousand miles away!" he muttered. be at the picture CHARTER XII. GULLIVER’S BIG RAISE. Tre death of the outlaws had been a serious dis- fe ig to Jubal Andre, who had clung to the belief that Burk Murdock would yet come to terms, and put Big Buckskin out of the way. That hope was now dissipated, however, and the scheming villain knew that what was done he must do himself, Fearful was he that something would happen to prevent his daughter's marriage with Sir mei bg is heart was set upon that, for it would make Agnes the mistress of Castle Chelton, and that would of course give him back his old position as bailiff. If a marriage were attempted by Sir Royal and Agnes, there could be little doubt but what Big Nothing, therefore, remained more imperative than that Bi Buckskin should be put out of the way, and that at once. And it was equally attend to the job himse! So he set to work and studied over a number of plans, and finally decided upon one which he cal- culated might work.” In former days he had been an expert swordsman and fencing-master, And .even though out of prac- tice, he was sanguine that he could hold his own with such a man as Big Buckskin, who, he allowed, would not be likely to understand the mavual at arms, Accordingly he brought out two fine blades from his trunk, and gave them a furbishing, after which he sat down ata table and wrote the following mes- sage: plain to him that he must “Bie Bockskin:—You must know that, as ene- mies, we cannot conveniently dwell in the same In order to settle who shall be master, I of the town, immediate! on receipt of this, and we will decide the matter w: th swords, * JopaL ANDRE.” Just at dusk he hired a man to convey the mes- pe to the sport; while armed with the swords, he set ou it for the appointed place of meeting. Here he waited. It was not long ere a foo sounded pear at hand, and the manly figure of Buckskin stood before him. “Well, I am here, Jubal Andre!” the sport said, “though I'll admit that I was surprised to receive a challenge from you. Idid not think you had so touch pluck.” “Oh! you didn't? Well, you evidently see your mistake. Lam just plucky enough to face a dozen loafers like you.” “Probably because you think you have an easy thing on me with the sword, which is very likely the case. Still, you have challenged, and Iam not the man to refuse — man the chance to get satisfac- tion out of me, if it isin him. Give me one of your slaughterin’ blades.” Keeping the best one for himself, the ex-bailiff a the other upon the ground, at Big Buckskin’s eet. “There! take it, and stand on your guard,” he cried, fiercely, “I came here to kill you, and free my child, and the harder you make me work the a Se IIs greater will be my triumph when I run you through!” : “All right! When you do run me through you can well brag of it,’’ Big Buckskin answered, com- posedly. — The two foes then stepped forward within striki ba ne their Lag nel held in a firm grasp, an their eyes gleam ste iG Clash! fash! sins . Parry! feint! lunge! Clash! clash! Swiftly and with great force did the deadly blades - through the ies blow meeting blow, and nei- er inan apparen' aining any advantage. Tn fact, the ardor 01 Jubal Andre seemed a good deal dampened, so to speak, for not only did he soon | find that Big Buckskin struck a tremendous blow, j ia but that he was also up to all the important littl: arts of fencing. It had a depressing effect upon Jubal Andre (tv know this, for with the know came the addi- tional rea'ization that one little opening left by him would be likely to lose him his life. Buckskin was as cool and composed as a mun well could be. He did not betray any anxiety fur his own safety; on the contrary, he appeared to be rather confident that he would be the victor. The duel soon came to an abrupt end. By a tre- mendous blow, Buckskin broke his adversary = blade in twain, and— kia Andre turned like a flash, and ran for his. life! In order to add to his terrors, the sport gave chase for a few moments, and then purposely allowed the cowardly wretch to escape. Sir Royal Rignold did not find his betrothed at the shanty, on his arrival there from the gambling den, Miss Andre had gone out, some minutes before. for a breath of fresh air. The camp, at eventide, was not the least dangyr- ous place for a lady to wander about, but the youug woman prided herself that she was not afraid, and set out boldly. ; 4 During her stroll, as luck would have it, she met the redoubtable Gulliver from Liliput, who block~ aded her path, with an indescribable grin upon his face. * ecg oN to yer, mum!” he saluted... “ D'ye want a beau ter see ye hum?’ Ef ye does, I'm in the market. - Gulliver is my handle—Gulliver from Lili- put, you bet!” “Sir!’* Miss Andre cried, coldly. “ Please be kind enough to ste att “i Eau me to peer 1j “Not by a Ju !* Gulliver responded. “I jist kuow what I’m about. I’m bizness, Iam? I've hearn it said ye’d pay a right peart sum to hey that CUS, Big Buckskin, put out o’ the way! Ain't that 60? Agnes Andre’s face underwent a change of ex- pression, and her eyes gleamed dangerously So I would!” ghe replied, in a hissing tone. “He is the very curse of my life. He stands between me and happiness, wealth and position!" LS cng hg fe Know jest how it is. Now what"! you give to have that galoot put so furunder grown that he can’t never burrow out agin?” Agnes Andre was silent. She was considering how to act. : . Everything was at stake, and something mast | done at once, She knew that her father was not at the shanty. and that his money was. Why not take the matter into her own hands, ani! ae t : man to do the work the Murdocks had let: undone £ What’ will you charge? Remember, the joi» must be done at once!” “ Five thousand dollars!’ Gulliver declared. “ Guy me that, an’ yell hear o” Big Buckskin’s dea:l within the next hour. ; “Then come with me. ; She went swiftiy back to her shanty residence, secured the sum ded by the giant, and gave it to him, “All right!’ Gulliver announced, after counting it. ‘* Jest ye linger about the camp a bit, and when ye —, several pistol-shots, yer case is non compres mentus.”* : . He then trotted serenely off, leaving Miss Andre slightly in doubt as to ps Ar she had done right in giving him the money. ; cae a giant would have gone ope ned be not an oreseen ney arose hi emerge pe re of @ revolver, which was thrust st no less a than Little Bill “T say, hold up thar, shorty!" the juvenile , in tones of command. ar move another step, without my permission, TN put a bullet In yer gizzard!" t’s the matter with you?” Gulliver thun- dered. “Put up yer weepon, afore I chew your head off.” “Can't do that, honeysuckle. Afore ye could bite thru my sculp I kin hev six tunnels drilled ib oe system!” the youngster retorted, iri- umphantly. : And Gulliver knew he spoke the truth, * What d’ye want?’ he demanded. “You'll find out!” Little Bill suggested. “Whar was Bs jest slopin’ for?” Wiler full ie © at aniche canta pe ri Piler full o’ forty- whi ey do tev Drastity on the tual keep b'ilers from ‘ - k out! None of your lyin’, or T'll salivai» you this minnit. skin, warn’t ye?” “He! he! he! Heerd thet job I put up on the ae Cian ye? Soak me if I didn’t capter ber shekels like a charm. Five thousan’ ata fe ! Jest ee ae it! Enuff to keep my b’iler filled ter a month!” * coe you didn’t intend to barm Big Buckskin, “Sartin not! Et jest occurred to me as how my exchequer war gettin’ low, an’ I'd better bleed sonse fat pocket-book. Lor’ bless ye, lad, I wouldn't |urt a hair on Big Buck’s pate fer all ther gold thar is in these mountings; not ef I knows m: yi “Waal, I should advise ye not ter try it, fer if ye do, thar’s a powerful sartainty thar’ll a bumble-bee buzz right thru your pericranium, now, waliz!" Gulliver was not slow in ene » for he was evi- dently afraid of that remarkable tea. When he was gone, Bill sauntered back to the Ye war goin’ fer to drap Big Buck. _
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14 hotel and took a turn at bar-tending, well pleased at lis success in bluffing down a man of Gulliver's huge proportions. * Bet the gal wnll knock her heels tergether when she finds how she’s bin soaked,’ he muttered, “Serves her right, durn her!”’ After his flight from the presence of Big Buck- skin, Jubal Andre made his way back to town in a humor that was bad, to say the least, 4 “Beaten again,’ he whined to himself. “Tt J seems as if ill luck is continually dogging me since I ‘have come to this accursed town. Big Buckskin has the luck of a cat, as regards his life, and it is ap- arent that | have no business to attempt taking it. What is to be done I do not know.” As he entered the town, he saw Sal Slap leave the : oe Glory, and walk over toward the Bonanza otel, His suspicions became at once aroused, “What the blazes is the ugly she-tiger going there Tor?” he muttered. The substance of thelr previous interview then flashed across his mind, “Can it be possible that the boy is there, and she is going to betray his identity to Big Buckskin?” Then came another thought. He had twice seen Little Bill tending bar, and had also seen him sev- eral times on the hotel veranda, “By heaven! I believe I have made adiscoyery!” he gaspel, “That youngster is the son of Buck- skin and Agnes, and Sal Slap is going to give away the secret, curses be on her!”’ The thought made him fairly desperate, and he quickened his pace with a view of overiaking her, But she had disappeared within the hotel ere he reached it. “Oh! but I'm not baffled yet!” he snarled, crouch- ing down behind a rock. “I'll waylay her when she comes back, and if she has glven up the secret, I will murder her! To capture the boy then, will be but little trouble. Once he is in my power,I can bring Big Buckskin into a trap to suit me!” And a maliciously satisfactory chuckle escaped him, in anticipation of the impending victory. An hour passed. People went to and fro through the gulch, but none of them came very near his place of conceal- ment, He saw Sir Royal several times, and -eckoned that he-was searching for him, but he was determined ted to leave his post at all hazards, until he saw Sal Slap. r Stijl the minutes continued to drag by, and Andre settled into a fit of quiet cursing over the ill-luck that was attending, his vigil. Presently, & man near to where he was «rouching, and he saw that it was Big Buckskin, whose footsteps were directed toward the Bonanza. “Ah! but [have you, now!” the villain hissed, and drawing his revolver he fired! Not on ut six times, each shot being leveled at the back of the sport, , Bang arr and clear the echoes rang out through the guich And what was the result? There came back a taunting, sarcastic laugh, while Biz Buckskin walked leisurely on toward the hotel, , not oven deigning to look around to see who had at- tacked him, Jubal Andre gazed after him like one dum- founded, What spell of witchery was this? He was positive that every shot he had fired had hit the sport in the back, as the space between them was not sufficient to warrant a “miss,” even by the poorest marksman, which the old villain was not, by any means, Yet the bullets had not, taken effect, for surely no human being with six bullets in his back could walk away with as much sang _/roid as Big Buckskin did, “ Gurses on him!” Andre hissed, ** He is certainly Jeagued with infernal power; or else he wears some protective device that renders him bullet-proof. Never mind! Imaygetachance at him again. I'll try him above the shoulders, then, and see if he will vefase lead there!” “Ye wull, hey?’ a voice exclaimed, close to his ear, which caused him to start violently, ‘* Ye wull hey? Neow, my Christian friend, mebbe it would be more appropriate and condomnsn aE perlite not ter count yer chickens afore they're hatched, I’ve allus obsarved thet sech wisdom brought forth better results. My name is Gulliver, an’ I’m jest fresh arrived frum Liliput!” It was the nt, in truth, and he held a revolver a size leveled at the mock parson’s es CHAPTER XT. BAL SLAP’S DISCLOSURE—AND THE MIDNIGHT WEDDING, Sau Stap did not gain an immediate interview with Denver Doll on her arrival at the hotel, but was told to wait in the office until Doll came down from her room. While she was waiting Little Bill came into the office, attired for the street. ‘No loi a uneouth-looking urchin was William, buta tony, well-iressed lad. A quizzical expression came over his intelligent face as he saw Sai Slap. _ ‘Hello, Willie!” she said, softly. ‘“ You are look- in’ right nice to- 1" a en’t say so, Sally. For heaven's don’t get mashed on me! What are you doing here?” =“ ae to get an interview with Denver Doll, sny lad." 2 Denver Doll’s Decoy. —— wate a ete = —_ = ——>=—— “Humph! what do you want of her?” , hy Tt will make your eyes bung out, boy, when you learn. “Phew! must be somethin’ exqueordin then?” “You bet it is! But don’t ax me no questions,” “Durn it, don’t be so tight-lipped. Spill out, ef it’s anything worth knowin’, Goin’ ter “dopt me, an’ make me your heir?” “ No yp “Some one want tomarry me?” “Not for years yet, you ten-year-old general!” “Bah! Come now, you're a sweet, purty duckling of a gal—ain’t ye goin’ ter pan out the secret?” “No, no! You run away for awhile, and when you come back you'll know all about it.’ “AN right. But mind, don’t fool me, or Pll run over and clean out yer ranch!” ‘ “ You'll know!” Sal oy ee) grimly, Satisfied that he would gain nothing by teasing | her, Willlam arranged his tie and sauntered out for an evening stroll. After he was gone, Sal took out a Testament and bi to read, seeming deeply interested, fter a long wait Denyer Doll came down-stairs, She was gréatly surprised to seo the bag, who had never acon her since the Guzzler’s Glory was started, “Good-evening, Dolly!” Mrs. Slap greeted, closing her Testament. “TI haye called to see you on im- portant business. Can I see you privately?” “Tf necessary, yes. Come with me,” and she Ied the way to the room in the rear of the office, where a light was burning. “Now please be brief!’ Doll said, ‘‘for I have much business to attend to,"’ he hag silent a moment, then she abruptly turned Jou: * “Dye think the Lord would forgive me, gal, ef I war to lead a bettor life?” she asked. Doll was surprised. “Well, 1 don’t know as I can answer that ques- tion,” she responded. ‘We all know that His is a merciful and forgiving spirit. Did He not give up His own life for us?’ “So I've hearn tell. Well, anyhow, I’ve made up my mind to bu’st up the ranch and lead a better life. Mebbe it won't be foo late for me yet.” “Tam glad of your resolution, and will pray that you stick to it. “Thank ye! An’ now, as a starter toward doin’ good, I've a disclosure to make, Did Big Buckskin ever tell ye the story o’ his bein’ married?” “Yes, yes!” “To Andre's gal?” “Yes,” “Well, a child was born!” “ Yes. ” “Does he know what became of it, gal?” No. He suspects that the Andres had it smug- gled off. “So they did. I did the job, and was to kill it, but my heart kicked, and I put it in kindly hands. I even know where it is now!” soe Buckskin’s voice was heard in the office just hen. Doll sprung to the door and called him in, When he was seated Doll said: * Mr. Wilton, I have something to surprise you, This lady, Mrs. Slap, knows where your lost son is!” “ What?” Buckskin cried, excitedly. “Tt’s so,” Sal averred, _‘* Your son is alive and we} ane I'saw him not balf an Hour ago. bey be praised! Tell me, woman, where is he?” “He has been as under a mother’s care for some months,” Sal returned, with a significant glance at Doll. “What! Isit possible you mean Little Bill?” thy Detective Queen cried. “The werry same. I’ve kept track o’ the kid ever since | war hired by Jubal Andre to kill him, wneu he war a baby.” Big Buckskin bowed his head in hi¢ hazls and was silent for some minutes, When he looked up there vere tears it. his eyes. “This is the ee hom I hare known for years,” he said. “I never dreamed Lhtle Bill was my son, but Iam none the less proud of him. And I have much to thank you both for, besides what pecuniary reward you can name.” * No reward is necessary,” Sai at once answered. “T'm oply glad to get rid 0’ the weight on my con- science. But let me give ve'n little advice, freo gratis, Don’t never let on to the boy who his mo- ther is, fer she is a reproecb to the both of you.” “You aré right. It will be better for the boy to remain in ignorance of ths sort of a mother he has. I will now go and find him,** “No! no! Denver Do? demurred. ‘I have some- thing important to say to you both. Bill will be all right, and you had best not explain anything to him until to-morrow morning.” She then spoke to her two auditors in low, rapid tones for several minutes, after which Sal Slap took her departure, Let us return to our friend Gulliver and his catch, Jubal Andre. The latter swore furiously when he saw that he was tra i jo What the devil do you mean?” he savagely ques- oned. “JT mean that I’ve cotched ye ina purty leetle scrape, an’ ef ye don’t disgorge I'm goin’ to peg ye in the noddle.’ “Man, I have no pees “Git eout! Z'eRers you don’t go broke, an’ don’t ye fergit it! Jest tumble out yer pockets, an’ yer jewelzy, ~a’ I'll let ye go free, ’ca’se I see’d Buckskiu dium’ count ye wuth noticin’, Ef ye re- fuse I'll blow yer head off, sure’s I’m the feller what ten thousand Liliputians couldn’t conquer.” Seeing nothing more sensible to do, the entrap assassin grumblingly obeyed, and Gulliver prefited to the extent of some two hundred dollars, ** Now ye kin go,” he said, ‘ while I amble off and line my bD’iler wi’ rust preventive.” Andre at once set out for his shanty, and en his way he saw Little Bill crossing the mulch. Crouching in a shadow, he waited till the boy was within arm’s reach of him, when he leaped forward and dealt him a blow that knocked him senseless to the ground. With some cords he then bound his hands and feet, and carried him to the mouth of an abandoned ile in the dark recesses of which he cast him down. “Til go and see what Rignold wants now,” ho muttered. It was his determination to say nothing to Agnes about the boy, but return in the morning, before bar ke and put an end to him, n his arrival at the shanty he found both Sir Royal and Agnes waiting for The former ap- peared to be in a highly excited state, and was’ pacing the floor ory “Where in the world have you been?’ he demand- ed as Andre entered. “TI have been waiting for you over an hour, and searching for you everywhere." “Indeed! Why,I've been about town. What do you want?” “Wnough! This marriage must take ake at once, if at all, and I must immediately srward leave for England, where lam wanted within a lim- ited time as claimant to a fortune. A messenger named Backus has been sent after me, and he says if Ido not start at once all islost. He has proposed we have the ceremon, rformed outside of town, at nine o'clock, and that we then immediately start upon our journey.” “A good idea. But it is nine o'clock nearly al- 7 dy. “Then get a priest and let’s get at once to work. We will take no baggage whatever to incumber us until we get to New York. Is there a minister or priest in the camp, do you know?” “Yes. One arrived yesterday and hung out his shingle.” “Then go fetch him at once, and we will start for the picture rocks, where the ceremony is to take place. It will be moonlight, and romantic.” A sharp rap came upon the door. Sir Roya sprung forward and opened it and admitted the bum-looking Englishman. Pe Wen, what's the matter?” Sir Royal inquired, sharply. ““Jig’s up in ¢hat direction, so far as the weddiy is concerned, See’d that feller Stark meanderin® 4 ward the picter rocks. Guess he smelisarat 89’ arranged a different lay-out,” “ What ”? “Why, I bought off Sal Slap. She's skcv mp thy place fer the night. "Bout midvight y. re ww com, one by one an’ rap at the coor, an’ Til admit yov, We'll hey the weddin’ then cn’ hosses cluss by, se we kin git a startat once,” “The she devil, Se! Slap, can’t be trusted at all,"” Jubal Andre ave. red * Yes, she can She said as how she had suthin' private to tel ye when ye come.” * Humyh:” was all the answer. *'Tben it is understood that ve will all meet at Sal Slan’¢ at_ midnight, gen for the journey,” Sir Poyal said. ‘Friend Andre, will you attend to the aatter of. securing the services of a ministery” oT fen pose 8O,”” was the reply.. The in was not over pleased at the idea of hay- ing the wedding at the Guzzler’s Glory, for he could but believe that Sal Slap’s visit to the Bonanza Ho- tel had been to. give up the secret of the where- abouts of Big Buckskin’s son. + When the Englishman had departed Andre left the shanty and engaged the newly-arrived elergyman, atter which he directed his footsteps toward the mn ae t. “Tl do for the boy, at any rate, before I leave!” he gritted, drawing a ‘6 and feelii its keen edge. “T hardly think Buckskin would follow us to Eng- land; but even if he should, there are surer facilities there for putting a man out of the way than in this treacherous country.” He approached the mouth of the drift and peered in. As he did soa huge grizzly bear came lurabering toward him. That was enough! He turned and fled for dear life. He was satisfied, beyond a doubt, that Little Bill was torn to pieces by the monster, long ere this, So he made his way to a saloon, and after pro- curing a drink of liquor, returned to his shanty te await the coming of the midnight hour. Midnight! : a prevailedin Little Bill’s Bonanza. very place of business was closed up for tht night, and only here and there throughout the camg were lights seen burning. Few peopie were abroad, and the most of thesq were making for their respective places of lodging. The bright radiance of the moon fel) down upos the town and reveeled objects with startling dis tinctness, e the aerial figure of Burk Mur dock on the pole. About -past twelve the last of several muf fl ped at the door of the Guzzler\ led figures, Glory. and was admitted. Inside, the saloon was but dimly lighted, and 4 monotonous silence prevailed,
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Denver Doll’s Decoy. Behind the bar Sal Slap stood, a grim expression bee y= hard face. different parts of the room were seated the rties connected with the nocturnal] affair, viz: abal bum-looking Englishman, Backus. The last comer was the minister—a young, demure- looking man, who appeared to feel strangely out of place in the grog den. “Well, | guess all parties are here,” uw bal Andre announced, ‘‘and we will get through with the ceremony a8 soon as possible. Mrs, Slap, will you see that the front door is well locked to insure safety?” “ To be sure I will, dear Jubal,” Sal replied, JPA. ing over the bar as neatly as a dry-goods clerk could have done. “The door is well secured. By the } Andre, Agnes, Sir Royal Rignold, and the | “Ourse you!" was all the reply the baffled biga |; mist could make. “You are making arrests so freely,’’ spoke up Agnes Andre, “I propose. that you arrest yonder ruffian,” indicating old Gulliver, ‘* Not three hours | ago he swin Jed me out of five thousand dollars—” way, Jubal dear, supposin’ you and [hitch up to- | get her, while the preacher is heer, You know we've bin lovin’ each other these many years, an’ now’s jest the time to show bow two lovin’ hearts will allus cling together.” “ Woman, are you mad?” Jubal Andre gased, “ Nary a time!” Sal declared; * nor ye hadn’t bet- ter gitme mad nuther. I’m a screamer when I'm mad—tooth an’ toe-nail! Ef ye don’t want me, Jubal, all yer got to do is ter say so!" “Of course I wouldn’t have you! I'd as quick ma an orang-outang aoe **Mebbe one o’ them would mate ye better, Well all slide up an’ have a drink wi’ me, an’ then we'll | start the weddin’!” The invitation was accepted, more, probably, for the sake of humoring the hag than } r any other reason, though it was noticeab.e that neither even “ Andre nor the minister took stingy drinks. rder was then called, and the contracting parties stood up, both very pale and evidently laboring un- der considerable agitation. The minister produced his book and slowly and clearly read the marriage service, received the an- 8wers, and pronounced Sir Royal Rignold and Agnes Andre man and wife, The following instant a rear door opened anda s of persons entered the barroom. CHAPTER XIV. WORDER UPON WONDER, AND ALL I5 WELL. had been, no doubt, ma artistic and TrEers striking tableaus within the Guzzler’s Glory during Sal Slap’s reign as proprietress, but it is safe to say there was never one to equal that which marked the pmsl ne of the new-comers following the m ceremony, The Andre-Rignold party stood aghast, white and a es yr . he lead of the entering party was the superan- nuated man of books—Geor, ashington Gum, dias Stark, the detective. oP ; x pollowin him came Big Buckskin, with Nellie Rolly leaning n his arm, Old Prowler, Gulliver HN Liliput and a blue-suited stranger who looked an AN. deemed!” Jubal Andre gasped, attempting to rand trapped: Englishman add pped,” the bum-lookii man - ed, mal Ane teee against the ‘ex-balliff's cheek. Jubal Andre, throw your weapon on the floor. You are wy prisoner!” at for?” Andre demanded. “You have no ht to arrest me!” Haven't I?” and off came a false wig and beard, fer’ the resolute face of Denver Doll} ‘“ Hal ha! my little decoy has worked even nicer than T at first anticipated. Jubal Andre, I arrest you for the peyote crimes of attempted murder, and also for pontine yaence® for a gang of counterfeiters in or over to you.” y! Officer Sherry, I hand this man The gentl. Jubalana pe pda clothes came forward, and pale ars’ faint, was oy le by pote a should , “Ay! Sir Rigneld. . Big Buckskin was her hus- ite the Bordon from his shoulders. tae merciless grasp of the world and ni to Sir Royal swore yey oy a ‘I never married her!” he raved. ’ “You lie!” George Washington Gum “and can prove it. The priest still lives who performed the ceremony, erat toe Re hired men to kill him— you infernal demon! ph Rignold, at my instance Denver Doll will put you under arrest until I receive a U.S. requisition, when I will have the pleasure of conducting you back to Hag lend, and nting you to the London courts as Mr. Jack De Haven, the ex-convict and burglar!” “I will mever surrender!” Sir Royal cried, furi- But he reckened without his host; for he was seized from behind by Officer Sherry and held firm- a wie Denver Doll adorned his wrists with hand- cuffs. ‘I guess you'll come to terms,” Doll said, with her provers augh, “We berder folk know how to handle even worse characters than you bloody Genglish cracksmen,”” | mon have got. c “Of my money, too, you hussy!” interrupted Ju- bal Andre, savagely. “hich you, in turn, stole from Sir Royal!" sneered Agnes, ‘‘ putting bogus stuff in place of it.” “ Charming developments!” laughed Denver Doll. “ How is this, Gulliver?” “Oh! the gal give me the swag as pay fer killin’ Buckskin, but arter I got it, I felt suddenly erent, an’ eouldn’t do the job," the giant replied, with a grin, “T arterwards caught Jubal thar, a-shutin’ at Buck- skin, and I made him dish out, too!”’ * Good for you! I opine that you're entitled to all And now, friends, these few arrests o not terminate to-night’s little surprise, for I have something else to say for the benefit of those | present. “Years ago, young Sir Clifford Chelton, of Chelton Castle, England, forsook his home, ran away, and became lost to all those who loved him. A long search was made, but he could not be found, and was riven ra as dead. That is, by all except his father, ir ey 2. “Sir Hugh could never give it up but what his son would be found, and with a resolve to find him, he left England to devote his life to the search, pur- poer: leaving behind him evidence to lead to the lief that he had committed suicide.” “This is false!’ Sir Royal cried, alarmed at the Tepes of the great Chelton estate being taken yom him, : There stands Sir Hugh Chelton, alive “Tt is not. and well!” And she turned and pointed to Old Prowler, wha stood near at hand. The old man seemed taken by yee “ By all things wonderful, how you find out my secret?” he cried, throwing off the long white false beard and wig, and standing before them—a hale and hearty-looking old gent—the real Sir Hugh, sure enough} “JT suspected it from the first you told me ‘of the family matter. The sa, sy our intimacy, the firmer did the suspicion mean established cer- tainty in my mind, But, let me proceed with my story: Sir Hugh’s search seemed useless and fruit- loss. He grew fatigued and weary, and I guess, finally, when he reached this camp, he was about satisfied that ‘twas no use to search further.” “What! what!” Sir Hugh cried, ‘excitedly. “Bah! she Hes!’ roared Sir Royal Rignold, savagely. “T do not!” replied Denver Doll. “The old say- ing, ‘It’s not always best to forsake the old for the new,’ is extremely re eager in this case, as Miss Andre will undoubtedly understand, when I state that her wronged first husband, Big ickskin, is the blazes this ferret-e yond my comprehension,” the sport said, as he war embraced his parent. ** Intuition did it,” explained, with a laugh. “And now, as matters have terminated so well through the medium of my little decoy trick, I opine we better adjourn the meeting.” And it was adjourned. ‘ The prisoners, and all hands eg Sal Slap and Agnes Andre, went to the Bonanza Hotel. Agnes, wicked, crushed woman of the world, went beck to the shanty alone and un ae all her grand mchemes a me future now disspa into nothing- ness isgrace, Hers was eton reward—richly deserved. . On the arrival of the main party at the hotel, the Beleonets were p) in the room in the rear of the omice, panne Bill had got back, and was up, waiting for 0) The bonds Jubal Andre had placed upon him were not tight, and he was free and out of the drift al- most as soon as the villain was out of sight, and long before the bear had entered it. As soon as Big Buckskin saw him, he clasped him to his breast warmly. bee mA son! my son!’ he murmured. “Git out!’ Bill retorted. “What you givin’ us? 1 ain’t your kid.” “But you are, as Denver Doll will tell you, and rit Prowler, here, as you knew him, is your grand- her. Denver Doll then explained what was advisable to him, and Bill listened curiously, * Well, that’s a rum go. #in’t_it?” he remarked. “Suthin’ like a Sunday-skewl hymn. So you're goin’ over the puddle, eh, dad?” “*Yes—back to grand old Castle Chelton, the home of my youth. Youare to go along.” “*Wull. Imight go and look over the ranch, but ye seelain’t no time to devote to relations. Biz is gy acs beep rete the aises ments Ww every galoot’s his own king; then, an’ Dollbaby aire sworn partners, you bet!" A few words to close. Jubal Andre and Sir Royal escaped before morning 15 and were never seen in Idaho again. During their p ’s absence e. board had been pried off the sire of the building, which formed one of the walls of the room, and they had crawled out through this open ing and escaped. t was mibinesd that Agnes had hived the job done, and aided them to get away. Thus the law was, in these two cases, baffled, and Stark and Sherry were forced to set out on the scarch again, A few weeks later Sir Hugh, Sir Cliffcrd—or Big Buckskin—and Nellie Kelly started for Europe, Before going, Buckskin made our heroine an offer of marriage, but she gracefully declinec, stating that, although she thought a great deal of him, she’ wes not yet prepared to marry—at least for a year or two. : When it came to part with Doll, Little Bill be- came nearly frantic, and no coaxing could tear him away from her. 4ud when Doll privately promised Buckekin that she and Bill recat visit Castle Cheiton, a year later, eis pangarne sport consented to leave his son be- vind, \ “For,” said he, “ when I get you over the ocean, I hope to keep you both there, and Nellic Kelly shall be your lady's maid.” Sal op ' her word, She burnud the Guzzler’s Glory to the ground, married Gulliver from Liliput, and the happy pair have bought’a ranch in Idaho, and settled down. Little Bil’s Bonanza soon played out, anda few shanties only stand to mark ifs site. Little Bill and ‘‘enver Dol, ever on the alert for sport and duty, were not longin stumbling into a field of adventures, where sooner or later we will try to renew their acquaintance. THE END. Half-Dime Singer’s Library 1 Waoa, Exma! and 59 other Songs, 2 Capra Curr and 67 other Songs. 8 Tue Garxsporo’ Hat and & other Songs, 4 Jomyyy Morean and 60 other So 5 [ty Srrixe You Wire A Frataer and 62 others, 6 GeorGE THE CHARMER and 56 other Songs. ? Tue Bette or Rockaway and 52 other mage 8 Youne Fei.an, You're Too Fresm and 60 IS. 9 Ssy Youre Grey and 65 other Songs, 10 I'm THE Governor's ONLY Son and 58 other Songs. 11 My Fan and 65 other Songs. s 12 Comm’ Treo’ tum Rye and 55 other Songs. 18 Tre Roiuickine IRISHMAN and 5) other Songs. 14 Oup Doe Tray and & other Songs, 15 Waoa, Cuarrre and 59 other ay : 16 In rms Waeat By and By and 62 other Songs. 17 Nancy Ler and 58 other Songs. 18 I’ rar Boy THaT’s Bounp Tro Buaze and 97 others. 19 Tae Two OrpHans and 59 other Songs. 20 Waar ane THe Witp Waves SAYING, Sister’ and 59 other Songs. , 21 InpiGNANT PoLtLy Woo end 59 other Songs. 22 Tne OLp Arm-CHarr and 58 other Songs. 23 Ox Congy Istanp Breach and 58 other Songs. _ 24 Op Simon, THe Hot-Corn Man and 60 others. 25 I’ rv Love and 56 other Songs. - rh 2% Parapr or THe Guarps and 56 other Songs. * 27 Yo, Hrave, Hol and 60 other Songs, “Py” 28 °Twitt Naver po 70 Giz rr up So and 60 others. ® Brug Bonners Over THe Borprr and 54 others 80 Tae Merry Lavanine Man and 56 other Songs, 81 Sweer Forarr-m&-Nor and 55 other Songs. 82 LerrLe Basy Mine and 53 other Songs, 83 De Banso AM py INSTRUMENT FoR Mz and S3.others 34 Tarry and 50 other Songs. : - 85 Jusr To PLEASE THE Boys and 52 other Songs. — 86 SKATING on ONE IN ‘tHE GurreR and 52 others. - Ko.Lorep Kranks and 59 other Songs. ' 88 Nit Desprranpum and 8’other Songs." 89 Tur Great I Lerr Benrp Mx and 50,other,Songs. 40 °Tis por A Lrrtie Fapep FLowsr and 50 othei's. 41 Prepry Wainer, and 60 other Songs. 42 Danxomne IN THE BARN and 63 other Songs. 48 H. M. 8. Prnarors, coupierr, and 17 other Song. Sold pt igh yc a five cents per copy, or sent. post-paid, to an dress, on re- ceipt of Sia: cents per number. = BEADLE AND ADAMS, Pvs.isuers, $8 Wittiam Srresz, New Yorx. - Sunnyside Library. ‘ KH, Thomas Moore.... . Ie 2 Don Juan_ By Lord Byron.,......... 200 8 Parapise Lost. John Milton. ..... Me 4 Tue Lapy or THe Lake. By Ste Preiser Hoot We 5 By Owen Meredith............ ...... 10¢ 6 UnpINe; or, THE From the Warter-SrIrit, " German of Friederich De La Motte Fougzs. 10¢ For sale by all newsdealers, or sent, postage pail on receipt oft twelve cents for single numbers. double numbers twenty-fourcents, ADAMS, VICTOR & Co,, 98 William street, New York. Ne
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1 Deadwood Dick, tre Price or Tar Roap oy. Edward L, Wheeler. 2 Yellowstone Jack. By Jos. BE. Badger, Jr. $ Kansas King. By Buifalo Bill. 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters. By Captain Mayne Reid and Captain Frederick Whittaker. 5 Vagabond Joe, rie Youre WANDERING Jew. By Ol Coomes. Poulle Number, 10cts. J Bill Biddon, Trapper. By E. 5. Ellis. 7 Whe Flying Yankee, By Col. P. Ingraham. § Seth Jones. By Edward 8. Ellis. 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen. 10 Nat Todd. By E.5S. Ellis. 31 The Two Detectives, B $2 Gulliver’s Travels, By Dean Swift. {3 The Dumb Spy. By Ot Coomes. 4 Aladdiny or, Tue Wonperrct Lamp. 5 ‘The Sen-Cat. By Captain Fred. Whittaker. * Robinson Crusoe, (27 Illustrations.) | melph Roy.. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven Voyages. The Phantom Spy. By Buffalo Bill The Double Daggers. By FE. L. Wheeler. Whe Frontier Angel. By Edward 8B. Ellis. ‘Whe Sea Serpent. By Juan Lewis. | Nick o° the Night. By T. C. Harbaugh. Diamond Dirk. By Colonel P. Ingraham, & The stay iA ptaim. By Roger Starbuck. 26 Cloven Hooft, By Edward lL. Wheeler. 27 Antelope Abe, tHe Boy Guipr, Oll Coomes, 28 Buffalo Ben, By Edward L. Wheeler. 29 The Dumb Page. By Capt. F. Whittaker, 30 Roaring Halph Rockwood, Tur Rrcx- Less Rancer. By Harry St. George. | 31 Keen-Knite, Pryce or tHe Prainms. By mes. 32 Bob Woolt- By Edward L. Wheeler. 33 The Ocean Bloodhound. 8. W. Pierce. 34 Oregon Sol. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams, 35 Wild Ivan, By Edward L. Wheeler. 36 The Boy Clown, By FrankS. Finn. 37 The Hidden Lodge. By T. C. Harbaugh. 38 Ned Wylde, Tax Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 39 Death-Face, tHe Derective, By Wheeler. 40 Roving Ben. By J. J, Marshall. 41 Lasso Jack. By Oll Coomes, 42 The Phantom Miner. By EF. L. Wheeler. 43 Dick Darling. 8B ay. Fred. Whittaker. 44 Rattling Rube. By Harry St. George. 45 Old Avalanche, By Edward L. Wheeler. 46 Glass Eye, Tan Grear Saor or tax West. Capt. J. F.C. Adams. htingale Nat, ack A.W. Aiken. * Socs8 oe me ROR Rte et ee Pat ee Soler, B . J. F. OC. Adams, JnKNOWN Scour; or, Tas BRANDED BROTHERHOOD, By Buffalo Bil, 56\Nick Whifites? Pet, Capt. J. F. C, Adams. 57 Deadwood Dick’s Kagles. Jim Bludsoe, Jr. Ned Hazel, By Cay Eye, THE Ir ‘ OW. ak, Hamilton, | By T. C. Hi p | t 23 Jos. BE. Badger, Jr . Etase . J. Hamilton. ' } savbdeather Joe. hut <ecoa Robin Hood, ' gat} Faifle. By Edward L. % ‘$24 Hips Cabin, By Capt. J. F.C. Adama. 31 Delaware Dick. By Oll Coomes. Sate atatate? HK SCSRASTH OH Hawk-eye Harry. The Boy Duelist, Abe Colt, rz Crow-K. Corduroy Charlie. Blue Dick. B “f Ligh 2 Kit By T. C. Harbai Rollo, the Boy Ranger. By Oll Coomes. | Idyl, the Girl Miner. By E. L. Wheeler. Back Buckram, Capt. J. F. O. Adams. Dandy Kock. By G, Walio Browne. 7 The Land Pirates, By Capt. Mayne Reid. 88 Photo. fon Phil. By E. 1. Wheeler. 1 89 pee Jim, By Bracebridge Hemyng. 90 The Dread Rider. By G. Waldo Browne. 91 The Captain of the Club; or, Tax Youre Riva Arswueres. _By Bracebridge Hemyng. 92 Canada Chet, By Edward L. Wheeler. 93 The Boy Miners. By Edward 58. Ellis. 94 Midnight Jack. By T. C. Harbaugh, 95 The RivalRovers. Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. | 96 Watch-Eye, THE SHapow. By E. L. Wheeler. | 97 The Outlaw Brothers, By J. J. Marshall. 98 Robin Hood. By Prof. Gildersleeve. 99 The Tiger of Taos, By _G. Waldo Browne. | 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A | SPRANGE STROKE FOR y. By Wheeler. 101 Jack Harkaway in New York, By | Bracebridge Hemyng. 102 Dick Dead-Eye. By Col. Ingraham. ' 103 Whe Lion of the Sea. By Col. DelleSara. | 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device. By Wheeler. | 105 Old Rube, tHe Hunter. Capt. H. Holmes. 106 Old Frosty, THe Gunz. By T. C. Harbaugh. 307 One-Eyed Sim. By James L. Bowen. *OS Daring Davy. By Harry St. George. 209 Deadwood Dick as Detective. By Edward L, Wheeler. LPOMHLHHSHKasasek Dore 1 I ! ! 1 ! 1 ; 1 ! 1 I 1 i 1 1 1 \1 1 \1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 I | 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Hep 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 a | 1 1 J i 1 1 1 | 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 i 1 3 \1 § | 2 ~ SED Se i sh Hm ne hee ihe hee ee ni We COSI SOO OSSD COCO GO GOIN NS FS RS SS NS OS ee net ee et te SODAS ON MOC SR CNH OCIA eNKS ZH neewwee — DD WMaBabadataFaleles-IARDAAAGAAAGAAANGN Soros ORK OOM D CRON MOC SARE ON KOS OUI eWN RH SOR Ate 5 6 is 98 9 SCCVSSCSSCSSSeEe® CoH i] 201 202 203 04 te rer w s 200 Th be ! 0 The Black Steed of the Prairies. A | Thrilling Story of Texan Adventure. By Bowen. | Whe Sea-Devil. By Col. P. Ingraham. The Mad Hunter. By Burton Saxe. Jack Hoyle. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Black Schooner, The Mad Miner By G. Waldo Browne. Gilt-Edged Dick, By E. L. Wheeler. Will Somers, tue Boy Derrorive. Morris. Mustang Sam. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. The Branded Hand, By Frank Dumont. Cinnamon Chip. Phil Hardy, Tur Boss Boy. By ©. Morris. Kiowa Charley, By T. C, Harbaugh. Tippy, tue Texan. By George Gleason, Bonanza Bill, Miner. By Ed. L. Wheeler. Picayune Pete. By Charles Morris. Wild-Wire, Boss or THE Roan, By Dumont. The Young Privateer, By H. Cavendish. Deadwood Dick's Double. by Wheeler. Detective Dick, By Charles Morris. The Golden Hand, Whe Hunted Hunter, By Kd. S. Ellis. Roger Starbuck, | The Hussar Captain. Col. P. Ingraham. | 226 By Kdward L, Wheeler. | | 236 By Geo. W. Browne. | | 237 Boss Bob, tHe Kine or tHe Boornuacgs: | or, THE PAwNBROKER’s PLlor. Ed. L. Wheeler. Sure Shot Seth, By Oll Coomes, Captain Paul. By ©, Dunning Clark. Night-HMawk Kit. By Jos. EK. Badger, Jr. The Helpless Hand, Capt. Mayne Reid, Blonde Bill, By Edward L, Wheeler, Judge Lynch, Jr. By T. C. Harbaugh. Blne Blazes. By Frank Dumont, Solid Sam. By Edward L Wheeler, Handsome nie ba By Charles Morris, Scar-Face Saul. By Oil Coomes. Dainty Lance, rH Boy Srorr, By Badger. captain Ferret, By Edward L. Wheeler. Silver Star, THe Boy Kxicur. By Coomes. Will Wildfire. By Charles Morris, Sharp Sam, By J. Alexander Patten. A Game of Gold. By Ed. L. Wheeler. Lance and Lasso, 4 Capt. F. Whittaker. Panther Paul. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr, Black Bess, Wa. Wivorme's Racer; or, Winnine Aaarst Opps. By Charles Morris, Eagle Kit, ra: Boy Demon. By Oll Coomes. The Sword Hunters. By F. Whittaker. Gold Trigger, Tax Sporr, T. C0. Harbaugh. Deadwoo Bick of Deadwood}; or, Tue Pickep Party. By Kdward L, Wheeler, Mike Merry. B arles Morris. Fancy Frank of Colorado. Buffalo Bill, The Lost Captain. By Whittaker. The Black Giant. 4 J.B. Badger, Jr. New York Nell. By FE. L, Wheeler, Will Wildtire in the Weods,. Morris. Little Texas. By Oll Coomes. ree. Mett, Dand Bob oa eae jeu! ITy. L. les ay) . Wh The Sea Trailer. Wild Frank, By Lite Murricane, By Oll Coomes, The Hidden Hand, By Chas. Morris. Whe Boy Trailers, By Evil Eye, Kixe or Carrie VULTURES OF THE Rio Granve. B illy. U.S.A. Captain Kit. By1 ,U.8.N. Captain Mask, By — arne, Buffalo Bills Bet. By ptain Taylor. Deadwood Dick's Dream. By Wheeler. Shadowed. By Charles Morris. Little Grit, tr Wop Riwer. By Ingraham. Arkansaw, rT.C. Lain Featherweight. By Edward Willett. © Boy ouins. By cer, The Binck Fane ain By Wheeler. Prospect Pete, * oomes, The "Bo y Pards. id By Jos. E, Badger, Jr. Gold Plume, tHe Boy Banprr. Ingraham. Deadwood Dick's Doom, By Wheeler Dark Paul, rae Ticer Kine. By C. Morris Navajo Nick. By T. C. Harbaugh. The Boy Hercules. By Oll Coomes. Fritz, ae Bounn-Bo¥ Detective. Wheeler. wove wre or en ny ih ag Crooke ale. y Jos, EF. er, JT, Dashing Dave. By Charles orris. 8! My 0} apt. 1a r, lout, HL D. Per Fritz to the Front. By E. L, Wheeler. | Wolfgang, THe Ropper oF THE INE. By Captain Frederick Whittaker. Captain. Bullet, By T.C. Harbaugh. Bison ack: - res NOE OF THE REINs. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 5 Captain Crack-Shot. By E. L. Wheeler, Tiger Tom, THE <AN ‘TRRROR. Coomes. Despard, the Duelist. P.S, Warne, em kiduet By Charles Morris. Saga ‘Wonted tam. By E. L. Wheeler. | 238 | 243 The Disguised Guide. | 247 Old Grizzly and His Pets. By Ca 222 223 Grit, the Bravo Sport. By Ingrahvm. Ozark Alf, Kixe or tHe Morxtar. By Kdward Willett. Dashing Dick, By Oll Coomes, Sam Charcoal, By Charles Morris, Snoozer, THE Boy SHarp. By E. L. Wheeler, Dusky Darrell, Trapper. By E. Emerson. Little Wildfire, By Ol Coomes. Crimson Kate, rar Grn Tracer. Col. Prentiss Ingraham, The Yankee Rajah, Py C. 1). Clark. Plucky Phil. ByT. ©. Harbaugh. Gold-Dust Dick. By KE. L. Wheeler. Joe Buck, of Angels, By. A W. Aiken. Old Rocky's ‘ Boyees,? Buckskin Sam. Shadow Sam. By Charles Morris, Apollo Bill, rHe Trai, Tornapo. ward L, Wheeler. Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain ; or, THE Mystreriovs Rancuero. By P. Ingraham. The Parson Detective, By Oll Coomes. 239 The Gold-seeker Guides or, Tax Losr MovonTain. By Captain Mayne Reid, 240 Cyclone Kit, By Edward L. Wheeler. 241 Bil) Bravo and His Bear Pards. By T. ©. Harbaugh, 242 The Two * Bloods’, 224 225 227 228 229 By 230 231 232 233 234 235 By Fa- By Charles Morris. By Oll Coomes. 244 Sierra Sam. Ly Edward lL, Wheeler. 245 Merle, the Widdy. By Col. P. Jngraham. 246 GiantGeorge. By Buckskin Sam, ptain “ Bruin Adams, : 248 Slerra Sam's Secret. By FE. L, Wheeler. 249 Milo Romer, By Capt. Fred. Whittaker. 250 Midshipman “futineer, By Ingraham. 261 Light-house Lige. By J. F. C. Adams. 252 Dick Dashaway. By Chas, Morris, 253 Sierra Sum’s Pard. By EF. L. Wheeler. 254 The Half Blood, . By Edward 8, Elis 255 Captain Apollo, By T. ©. Harbaug?. 256 Young Kentuck, By Capt. Mark W': ». 257 The Lost Hunters, By Capt. Adam. 258 Sierra Sam’s Seven, By HE. L. Wheeles 259 The Golden Harpoon. By. Starbuck 260 Dare-Devil Dan, By Oll Coomes, 261 Fergus Fearnaught, By Geo, L. Aiken. 262 The Young Sleuths, By Charles Morris. 263 Deadwood Dick's Divide. By Wheeler 264 The Floating Feather, by Ingraham. 265 The Tiger Tamer. By Capt. Whittaker, ? «. B ; les 266 mies C23) ne he 1 ao ae 267 The Buckskin Detective. By T. ©. Harbaugh. 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail, By Edward L. Wheeler. 69 The Gold Shi i DEMNED. By Colonel 270 Blizzard Ben. By Captain Mark Wilton. 271 The Hage Hunter. By Edward 5S. Ellis. 272 Minkskin Mike. By Oll Coomes. 273 Jumbo Joe. By Edward L. Wheeler. 274 Jolly Jim. By Charles Morris. 5 Ar . B x jor 27 Fore ik: T i yy Buckskin Sam, (Maj 276 Merle Monte’s Cruise; or, Tae Caase or THE Gotp Suir By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 27% Denver Doll. By Edward L. Wheeler. 278 The Three Trappers; or, Tax Mounrarn % Monster. By Majart. W Canton, 9 Old Winch, Tae Rirte Kina, Aas - Barareh. sa ae or, Mente, tux Con- tiss Ingraham, 280 Merle Monte’s Fate; or, Peary, tHe Prrate’s Prive. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 1 Denver Doll's Victory: or, Skunz ann = Cross-Bonrs. By Edward L. Wheeler. Typo Detective 3 or, WkasHL, THE =e og icy By Edward Wille’ ndian Joe; or, Tar Warrs Spirit ov THD prs Hits. By Major L. W. Carson. i The Sea Marauder 3 or, Menux Montr’s Gost PienGe. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 285 Denver Doll’s Decoy. By Edward L. Wheeler. Wenderfoot; or, Tux 6 Josh, the Bo 7 ih oe OZZARD BAR. Captain EN OF Mark Wilton. 287 Billy Blue-Eycs, rar Boy Rover or THs Rio pM By Col Prentiss Ingraham. 4 new issue every week. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by a! Newsdealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mail on | receipt of six cents each, BEADLE & ADAMS, ' Publishers, 9 William Street, New York. i | } | j i H |