Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 293) (1883 03 06)
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m patella |S a ee cp t > “h. WAS . 2NWssy GUMS <r \ WANS 3 ‘ NN V nN Hie WN | TAN) AAT NY ey “wy Gop! THAR SHE GOES!” SCREAMED RED CLAW. HIS ONE EYE BLAZING LIKE A STAR, ' we; tL ae 1 iV Wan) ) Wy
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2 THE ONE-EYED TRAPPER; oR, THE MAID OF THE CLIFF. BY CAPT. COMSTOCK. CHAPTER L THE MOUNTAIN VISION. Tue sun had not yetrisen. The bine peaks of the Ozark mountains in the southern of Missouri were vailed by a thin mist, which must vanish hefore the apr rays of the luminary. Meanwhile, the birds of day were awake. oriole sat in the laurel looking | the woodpecker — at bark of the chest- nut, and the kingfisher sailed bigh in the blue mist over the tree-tops. A tall man cer cay forth from the woodland lying between the mountains and the White river, and commenced scaling the rocks, He was about twenty-eight years of age, and might have been handsome but for the loss of one eye. The other, round and of a clear gray color, was singularly piercing. In fact, “ CLaw "— such was the name.by which this, person was known among the Ind sve better on a straight line with his one eye than most men with two. Again and again had this been proved on the trail and under other circum- stances, the additional power of vision concen- trated in the one organ seeming to more’ than make up for the absence of the other. This fortunate peculiarity had, on one occasion, been the means of his saving a whole regiment of regulars from being massacred, while acting as guide to,them on their way to Fort Smith in the Indian Territory. A party of Indians lying in ambush, bad by him been detected a mile distant, although screened wy a line of bushes which completely hid them from his compan- ions. As a fighter with bears and Indians, his repu- tation was little less than that of the famous Crockett. The red-men had often endeavored to waylay him, or lead him into ambush, that they might rid themselves of so formidable an adversary, but thus far bis remarkable skill and cunning had baffled all their efforts. The dress of this person consisted of the usual trapper costume: leather leggins, moccasins, bearskin cap and fringed buniing-shirt; his arms, of a long knife and a rifle of remarkable caliber, whieb he had christened: “ Fire-teeth,” and which, ia his:bands, had never missed fire. To see the man scaling the rocks, now draw- ing himself up»by @ root along the sides of a perpendicular elevation, now gaining a fate upon a two-inch ledge, to slip from which woul be certain destruction, again crawling through some narrow gorge, scarcely wide enough to ad- mit his herculean frame, then leaping one of the numerous’ chasms which abound in this range, the spectator would have been reminded of the sure footed chamois-hunter, who trav- erses the lofty regions of the Alps. ba ee? and ‘<a by easly aa san, the face of the man caught a deeper Ww, and bis eye grew brighter with the hardy, healthful exercise, which he continued until reached a rocky platform far up on the moun- tains, where lay the carcass of a huge brown bear, which he had killed on the previous even- ing, but had concluded to defer conveying to his cabin until the present time. Tbe position he now occupied was about two hundred feet above the tops of the woodland trees extending along from the base of the mountains. Thus viewed, the forest-trees wav- ing in the breezs, and partially obscured by the mist, presented the appearance of a dark mass of waters rolling aloug before the wind. Above, about’ fifty feet, extended rocky parapets, the summits of them vailed by the mist, from which, here and there, a sharp spur of rock protruded, like a lance of some huge, fabled genius of the mountains, Red:Claw glanced in this direction, his keen eye glittering. An ordinary man would bave seen nothing save the mist and the rocks, but the trapper could. distinctly make out the back of a human head. ‘ ty ia hyar, Chick! Didn’t you see me be- ore At the words, the boyish face of the person called Chick, who had been sent up bere to wait the trapper’s coming, was thrust downward through the mist, and a hand beckoned to the . i z a eet —jomy The latter was soon by the other’s side. The boy, who was about seventeen years of age, was attired in rather a fanciful garb, which, how- ever, became him well. He wore a loose cloak of white deer-skin, trimmed with red, and a cap of the same color and material, containing a swan’s feather, secured with a silver clasp. e was a handsome young fellow, but his features and wie Se were unmistakably Indian. In fact, Guy Winton—such was Claw’s real name—had found the lad when a child, lying by a stream of water in the beart of the fores most starved to death! What bad become o his parents—or of those who should have taken care of him, the trap had never been able to discover. He had, t erefore, resolved to bring up as his own this little foundling, which, as it cay older, became much attached to him, lov- ng bim like a father. ‘Hist! Seo!” whispered the lad, pointing to- ward a rocky spur about twenty feet phore their heads. Glancing thither, Guy beheld the form of an Indian girl, the incomparable beauty of which was evident in spite of the vail of mist by which it was partially obscured. Balanced on one foot, the girl, attired in a tasteful garb of brown and red buffalo skin, stood leaning forward in an attitude of peculiar age her long, thick black hair falling round er shoulders, her rounded arm thrown over her head, her glance bent straight ahead of her, as if she was on the watch. “ Beyootifal!” ejaculated Red Claw,» under his breath. The girl seemed to hear the whisper, for she started suddenly and looked-downward. The moment she saw the two watchers, she descended to the spur on the other side, and both beheld her soon vanish in the mist. Red Claw commenced clambering toward the spur. ‘* Where are you going?” inquired the boy. “ Arter that beyooty! P'raps she are in need of purtection—fleein’ from some pesky red-skin, which are wantin’ to marry her ag’in’ ber will! Dll save her if I kin—thar’s me!” “ll help!” exclaimed Chick, who also had been much impressed by the singular beauty of the Indian maid. With an agility fully equal to that of tho elder, he followed him up the rock. The two kept swiftly on, and finally came in sight of the girl about twenty yards ahead, fleeing with an agility which gave her more the appearance of some ethereal being than one of mortal mold. Her course lay along a ledge projrudaes, = the side of a rocky wall, beyond which Winton knew there were deep, almost impenetrable ra- vines, ‘‘ Ef she keeps on,” he gasped, fairly turning white with excitement, “ef she keeps on, nothin’ can save her!” : The boy, behind apace or two, clincbed his white teeth ether, the only exhibition of emotion he displayed. Both, exerting themselves to the utmost, en- deavored to reach the girl before she should eau the edge of the first ravine, which they eemed too wide for any female to leap over. Meanwhile they kept shouting to her to stop, but she sped on, heeding them not, at the same swift pace as before. This it was which had so excited the trapper, who, believing that the girl was not aware of the mce of the ra- vine, now by the mist and the shaiow of a rock rising near, feared that she might not discover it in time to recover ber balance and prevent herself from falling into the abyss! On she went. Soon, straight before her was the ravine, not 80 much vailed by the mist as Guy had thought. The fugitive must see it. Her pursuers stopped, hoping that she would then pause also, Nothing of the kind, On she went, and now something like a boarse shriek broke from the “1 3 of Guy, as he beheld her within a few feet of the yawning opening. “God help ye, Injun gal!’ be shouted, “Surely you ain't a-goin’ to try to jump it. Don’t! thar’s you!” She half turned her superb neck; her eyes flaghed fire and scorn—ber long black hair swept the wind. Not in the hundredth degree did she slacken her pace. A moment more, and the tip of her right foot was on the ravine, and then— : “My God! thar she goes!” screamed Red Claw, bis one eye biazing like a star. a bow bent, until the two ends meet, and then let go, shoots upward, so the Indian girl’s lithe form was seen making the airy spring! Away she went, just clearing the yawning chasm—not an inch to spare—only one foot first Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. -cried Guy, ho striking the opposite side of the perilous brink! The impetus, bowever, was sufficient to pre- vent her going backward; she drew up the the other foot, and a moment later was lost in the mist beyond. oe rew a long breath. “e t war a powerful jump,” he muttered. ‘Ef she hadn’t cl’ared the chasm, I’d have cried like a baby, big asI be. Thar’s no use of fol- lerin’ her up,.as she are afraid of us It’s all that eye thar,” he added, mournfully, pointing toward his one orb. Chick shook bis head. “Think she heard of you,” he said; “ heard vou spoken of. She saw you and knew you. That’s why run.” “Ef that war all, ’'d soon convince her I warn’t cage harm to her—thar’s mef” eesly. As he spoke, Chick darted forward, and pikes vp something from the edge of the ra- vine, It was a small, delicate moccasin, beautifully ornamented with red and blue, and with the strings by which it had been secured barst open by the strain upon them when.the Indian girl balanced herself upon the ball of her foot, pre- tory to leaping. This was the cause of its i un lest behind, ‘Thar never war sich a purty moccasin as that before,” cried Guy, pressing it to his lips. He stood surveying it a few minutes; then, Ropketiag the treasure, retired, followed by hick, to the spot where lay the carcass of the brown bear. CHAPTER IL ; : THE RENDEZVOUS. ASSISTED by Chick, Guy finally carried the carcass of the bear to the door of his cabin. This was built of logs, squarely shaped, and was situated in a small clearing in the wood- land already spoken of. The interior had no floor, but several bear- skins thrown upon the ground constituted a com- fortable ram for men bred to the bardsbips of a hunter’s life. Upon the clay-stuffed walls were hung the horns of a buffalo, a large powder-horn, a drinking-gourd, a Jeather knap- sack, and anoldtincup. As to furniture, there was none here, unless the stump of a broad tree, serving tbe purposes of a chair and table, might be thus denominated. Seating themselves on this, the two filled their pipes, curiously carved by their own hands from a beautiful specimen of laurel-wood, and com- menced skinning the bear, with a dexterity which soon enabled them to finish their work. The skin was spread out in the sun to dry, and the meat prepared for roasting in the stone fire- place at one side of tbe hut, Chick had just kindled a fire, and placed the meat over it, when a shadow darkened the en- trance of the hut, into which, without cere- mony, stalked a tall Indian, evidently of the Osage tribe. He was a man of herculean abi ern and being armed with a tomahawk and rifle, cer- tatty presented a formidable appearance, hightened by the bright war-paint covering his massive jaws and forehead, The suddenness with which tbis apparition came, seeming to walk right out of the mist, without baving made the slightest noise to warm the hunters of his approach, added to the effect he produced upon the two in the cabin. Hed Claw, who was the first to see him, sprung for his rifle, which he had placed in a corner of the hut. “Hello! What yer doin’? Git out! Ef yer don’t Pll put a bullet through yer bead—thar’s me Chick also his rifle, and kept his eye on the Indian, but said not a word. eanwhile the new-comer, who had now come to a halt, stood surveying Guy with calm, piere- in . % Gome, Injan!” cried Guy, cocking bis piece, “speak out and tell me the meanin’ of this ongentlemanly intrusion. Your people giner- ally come Gy aaly gel ina more sneakin’ fash- jion—thar’s ‘‘ Omeeno’s tribe are ueers in the fight; but they love to strike and not let the white eee, because that makes the white mau afraid!” ‘“« Well, see hyar! ef yer come hyar to brag, Tl soon put an end to that!” “‘Qmeeno cares not for big talk. He strikes— we talk! He came for Winnihab’s mocca- n. The white man has it, He told Winni- hah a he would get it for her, and he wi ‘Now, Injun, yer come to the p’int. I’m par
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‘*Winnibab Joves Omeeno, She came to him, fleeing like a deer, and told him of her loss. He gave her the moccasin six moons ago, 60 he must get it back.” Guy’s one eye flashed fire; there was jealousy and fight in its expression. The Indian was his enemy, and he longed to close with him in combat. But one thought re- strained him, and that was Winnibah, who might grieve for the Indian's death. He could not bear the idea of her suffering in any manner whatever. , Reflecting a moment, he again spoke: “1 tell yer what, Injun: Winnihvh shall hev her moccasin, but I prefar to put it into ber hands myself. Do yer know whar the White river is “Does the prairie-dog know his cave, the wolf his den?” “Very well, then! You and Winnihah must meet me by the White river, close to the place whar them three trappers war buried a year ago. arter bein’ massacreed by some of your infarnal tribe—thar’s them !” “Tt is well!” answered the Indian. ‘* Omeeno will be there with Winnihah.” “In an hour,” said Guy, ‘I will jine ye.” ‘It is well.” So saying, the Indian stalked away, the trap- r watching him with wistful eye. e was on re to engage with the fellow in mortal combat; in fact, he almost experienced a feeling of self- reproach for not doing so. owever, when he took the moccasin he would ascertain if the girl loved the man, and if he found she did not, be would attack the Indian there and then. “So that beyooty’s name is Winnibah?” he muttered, when tbe Indian was gone. ‘‘ Nothing would please me more than to make the gal my wife; and ef I kin I will.” The bear’s meat soon being done, he and Chick ate heartily, after which Guy signified his in- tention of going to keep his appointment. He understood the Indian character too well to either go alone or without taking with him the means of performing a long tramp, which from treachery or some other cause, on the part of his red foe, might be necessary. From the wall he first took down a coil of deer-hide to serve as rope-stuff for a lasso, in case it were required, shouldered his knapsack, filled his born with a fresh supply of powder, and his pouch with good bullets, which he sel- dom wasted. : Chick, who was to accompany him, made sim- ilar preparations, after which the two started toward the White river. Instead, however, of proceeding directly to the place of appointment, they separated, and te a roundabout course, proceeded to recon- noiter, Guy thus arrived within fifty yards of the rendezvous without discovering any sign of treachery. A thick mass of laurel ani hazel bushes now were before him, screening the spot from bis gage, and suggesting caution, Moving stealthily forward, be pee through an open- ing in the shrubbery, when to his unbound Joy be beheld the form of the beautiful Winnih standing by the stream, Lean against a tree, with the sunshine flooding beautiful bair, her on emi- nently graceful and bewitching, made Guy's pulses throb and bound. Just beyond the stream wasa mass of rngged rocks, rising about thirty feet, the summit cov- ered with a thin growth of shrubbery, and com- manding a good view of a deep gully to the left, Sounded with a few chestnut trees and a mass elambering vines. Glancing toward the rock, as he moved on, Guy thought he could make out something glistening a moment in the shrubbery. He paused, intently watching the rock, when suddenly proceeding therefrom, he heard the harsh notes apparently of a raven, which he. at once recognized as made by Chick. Yes, Chick then was there, and it was the barrel of his rife that Guy had seen glistening through the bru:hwood. The boy had taken a roundabout way, crossed the stream above and thus got to the rock, whence it was evident he saw something suspi- cious, as was indicated by the raven Moving forward a little further, the latter came in sight of a figure seated upon a log in & bent position, the head partially concealed by bushes, a few yards from where Winnihah was stationed. The buffalo-skin garb and a portion of the legs of this figure were visible, but the rest was obscured by shadow and shrubbery. tra and’ from Chick.” He continued to move forward, still gazing keenly toward the two figures near the stream. Surely every thing was right in that direction. There was Winnihah, and there was the Indian figure still seated on the log. Wondering still more why Chick had uttered the notes of caution, Guy kept on: then paused again, to see if the boy vedi repeat the croak, Watching the rock, he presently detected the gleam of something white, which be soon dis- covered to be Chick’s handkerchief, evidently wound round his hand to attract his (Guy’s) at- tention. The arm was pointed in the direction of the gully, a few minutes, and then withdrawn con- vineing Guy that. the suspicious point was in that d'rection, OD siermiued to investigate the matt, the trapper vow turning and still keep- ing uns If screened by the shrubbery moved along ward the gully. He was soon near enough to obtain a view of the place, but he could see g there to excite his suspi- cions, The bottom of the bollow was covered with a sparse wth of shrubbery and mosses of long, feo grass, and a small rivulet there went rippling along over a bed of sand and gravel, ot far m the edge of the hollow, was a tree which evidently had been blown over by a high wind, and which, seen at a distance, bore some resemblance to human figure. This it wae, perbaps,, which had de- ceived Chick, whom, in tbe course of his ex- ot with the boy, Guy bad known to have n, on several occasions, mistaken, in a similar manner. Concluding thus the trapper turned, and rising, walked boldly toward the stream. Tbe croaking was then recommenced, but it ceased in afew moments, as Winnibah now, instead of retreating, came forward to meet the young trapper. Indian though she was, Guy, instinctively impressed by her wonderful beauty, lifted his bear skin cap, * You're a sweet creatur’, gal,” he remarked, “thar’s you, and I am t’otber ways, powerful ugly with my one eye—hyar’s me /’ So saying he bowed, and presented the moc- casino. “*Thankee,” said Winnihah, in accents like a silver bell. ‘‘ Omeeno said you bring to me.” ‘*Do you love that Omeeno, Injun gal?” She hung her head without replying, and tap- ped the groind with one little foot. Soon a shadow crossed her face, still she said nothing. ** It’s plain you don’t, wharfore that Omeeno and I must bev a scrimmage. Ef he had been any thing to you, I mought hev spared bim for your sweet sake, bat as he ain’t, it’s all up with the critter.” So saying, he bounded toward the Indian figure, seated motionless on the log, pow about a bundred yards distant. Reaching it, he grasped it by the shoulder, when, to bis sur- prise, it fell to pieces, thus showing that it merely consisted of a few pieces of wood, so ar- hati and dressed up as to resemble an In- dian! Instantly the wily man fell to the ground, and not a moment too soon, for the crack of a rifle, quickly followed by that of another, and the trapper beard two bullets whiz over bis head in opposite directions! CHAPTER IIL STRATE@Y. GLANcrnG up, Red Claw bebeld a small cloud of smoke coming from the rock upon which Chick was stationed. It was followed by the person of Caick, who now ng to his feet, and commenced descending the rock. Turning to see whence the other shot bad proceeded, Guy saw another thin cloud of smoke rolling from a clump of bushes, skirting the east bank of White river, and about two bundred yards distant. He also perceived that the Indian girl, Winni- hah, was gone. To rush toward the bushes was with the trap- per the work of a few moments. obody was there, but the marks of feet were in the graes fringing the bank. Guy at once concluded that a canoe must have been there. He glanced down the river, discovering a ES jecting point of Jand. round which the frail craft might easily have disappeared. hing to this point, Guy had confirmation of his suspicions. A canoe was there, contain- ing the half-prostrate form of the Indian, Omee- no, and the girl Winnehah, who was paddling noiselessly as a spirit, yet with remarkable ) swiftness, So rapid, in fact, was the dip of ha ly caught a brief ne oh ight, dis- appeared the next moment round anotber prom- ontory fifty yards below the spot occupied by the trapper. The latter had lifted his rifle im- pulsively, then as quickly lowered it, fearful that his bullet, instead of hitting Omeeno, might strike bis beautiful companion, ‘*Glad not fire,” said Chick, now at his elbow , ‘might hit girl—two very close together. Think me wounded him /” “ Think yer did, Chick—tbar’s you!” The two now burried toward the bend round which the canoe bad last vanished, just in time to discover the frail craft disappear in a mist- cloud far beyond. ‘For the present, we'll just halt whar we are and re cede to explanation: s,” ssid Guy, “ arter’ which I intend to foller up that Injun gal— ther’s her!” ** What use?” inquired Chick. ** Because I've taken a fanc reply. ‘‘I can’t git that gal’s beyooty out of my mind, end although it’s presumption in a one-eyed ogre like me to expect ber to fallin love with me, still I’m determined to keep ber in sight and if I kin, bribe ber to he my wife!" “Me like beauty, too,” said Chick; “ never see girl me feel so strange to before.” The one eye of the trapper burned like a live coal, as he turned it upon the boy. “Park ye!” he fiercely exclaimed, clinching bis fist, ‘now don’t you go to fallin’ in love with that gal. ard showin’ off your graces to her. Ef wt do, I'll shoot yer like a weasel—thar’s me ‘ A sullen expression crossed the lad’s face. ‘ “Love free like the wind!” he muttered, * and come, If girl love, she love, nothing help|” Guy clinched bis teeth and seized ihe lad’s shoulder in an iron grip. Be car’ful, boy, be car’fal!” The lad waited until the trapper released him, ioe bgt calmly: “Me leve not girl! only say feel sirange to ber! Can’t say how feel in tine,” “Well, well,” said Guy, whose anger now seemed to bave entirely subsided, “it was wror o’ me to git mad with yer, and byar’s my hand. Now let’s explain matters.” This Chick did at once. After sepsrating from Guy, he had proceeded, as mentioned, toward the White river by a roundatout course, which soon brought him to the rock near the lace of rendezvovs. Thence he saw the girl innibah, end further teyond, crouching in the hollow, the person of Omeeno, riffe in hend, watching the brusbweod toward which Red Claw was gliding on bands and knees. The In- dian’s intention was evident; he was waiting to shoot the trapper perhaps the moment he should reach the rendezvous. Chick bad the advantage of the Indian, for while the red-man was fully exposed to his view, he was so screened by the busbes that Omeeno could not have seen him had he tried todo so. Soon Chick’s keen eyes detected Guy, of A bdrm through the bushes wherefore he made the signal of warning agreed upon. . Still the Indian, who, it was evident, also saw him, did not fire, a forbearance for which the boy could only account by supposing that it was bis wish to wait and see that Winnihah obtained the moccasin before shooting the hunter. Fi- nally. just as Guy discovered the deception of the effigy. a deception doubtless practiced to jure him on and Jull bis suspicions, the crouch- ing Indian, who had now changed bis position round to the bushes bordering the river, that he wight thus obtein a better chance at the trapper, lifted his rifle to fire. Chick, who not for a moment bad Jost sight of the red-skin’s movements, instantly took sim at the fellow and sent bis bullet whizzing on its errand. “Ef it had been my shot, he’d have been a dead dog—thar’s me /” ejaculated Red Claw, as Chick concluded: ‘*Shall we go back to cabin now?” inquired the boy. ‘ ‘*Back, no! 1 must see more o’ that gall Besides, I owe that infernal red-skin a grudge for the trick he tried to play me! I keep on in pursuit of ’em bothi” : By this time, the rays of a cloudless eun had partially dissipated the mist. Twittering birds were hopping round among the branches over the heads of the two, and the scream of the wild duck was heard in the distant marsh. ‘*Come on, pe said Guy. ‘let's be moving; th us The keeping along the right bank of ly skirted with to her,” was the the er which was thic bushes. Now and then, they would glance
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“ toward the water, hoping to get sight of the canoe, but they were disappointed. Finally, however, after they had followed the course of the stream for about five mi Gor suddenly halted, laying a hand upon ’s shoulder. “Do yer see her?” “No! “Thar she is!” pointing toward an opening in the shrubbery, ond the oppoaie bank. Still Chick could see nothing of the gin, although he exerted himself to the utmost to ierce the mist-cloud, hovering over the open- g. Thesuperiority of his companion’s vision, however, did not surprise him in the least. He had seen more remarkable examples of it than the present, in the course of his experience with the trapper. “Yes, thar she is!” continued Guy, ‘and she’s standing parfectly still—seeming in wait for some person, which I’m afraid aren’t me!” ‘““Why go after her?” inquired Chick, ‘She love the red-man.” ‘You ain’t sartin of that; I think t’other- ways. Hello! if she ain’t comin’ towards us!” fact, the Indian girl now was seen by both tors approaching the edge of the stream. he sight of the two hunters did not seem to frighten her in the least, To their surprise, she bowed to Guy and smiled sweetly on him. That smile made the heart of the trapper fairly bound in his breast. He took his cap, and notwithstand- was an accomplice in the attempt upon his fe, he bowed low to her and blushed to the roots of his hair. Winnehah evidently per- ceived the impression she had made pare the trapper. She walked to the bushes skirting the shore, and disengaged therefrom the same canoe in which she had previously been seen, “Will white man cross and follow me?” she inquired, again smiling sweetly. No, don’t go,” said Chick, clutching the cuauper’s arm; ‘‘she want to play another trick.” Red Claw, however, shook off the grasp of his young adviser. “Yes, purty one!” he exclaimed, ‘‘T’ll follow yer to the ends of the ’arth, ef yer wish it!” Vainly the boy begged his companion not to listen to the sweet voice of one whom he deemed a deceitful siren. The hunter was completely infatuated, and would not listen to him. ‘* Well, if will go, me go too,” said Chick. “ No, you don’t want to go. You may stay back ef yer like.” Chick gave the speaker a pepennenee glance. “Me not afraid to go,” said he. ‘‘Go wher- ever you go.” “Well, then, I tell yer what yer may do, ‘You may act as scout, and ef thar’s treachery meant, you can see it, and warn me—thar’s you This Chick willingly consented to do, after which, Winnihah having shoved +7 canoe across the stream, the two stepped into it. Soon they were on the other side, when Win- nihah, having deposited the canoe among the beckoned to Guy to follow her. He did so without hesitation, and away went the In- dian fpr dancing along before the rough trap- per like a fairy, while Chick, who had held a moment’s conference with his master, struck off 2 a direction at right angles to that pursued z ‘ For a long time he moved on without seeing anything suspicious; then, turning, he contin- ued upon a course parallel with the one his late companion and the gir] had pursued, Among other thoughts that passed through his mind was the one as to what had become of Omeeno—the wounded Indian. Was the fellow not hurt so badly as he seemed, and lurking somewhere near, watching for a chance to way- lay and shoot the man whose life he had a viously attempted? He would have asked Win- nihah what bad become of the Indian, had he not thought that she would disguise the truth, or endeavor otherwise to mislead him. Finally, however, he concluded that the girl had left ber lover hidden in some cave, or in some hole in the ground, and that it was her intention to lure Guy into some ambush of others of ber tribe. This thought was a very disagreeable one to Chick, who loved his master so much that he would willingly have sacrificed bis life in bis defense. He retraced his way until he discovered the trail of the two, and then proceeded to follow it =p with a skil) and rapidity almost equal to that a bloodhound. _. Meanwhile, his surmise regarding the Indi- a that he felt almost certain that the Red Claw, the One-Eyed an’s having been hidden was correct, He had not ed far after the trapper had started to follow the girl, when, apparently ciawling from under the very water’s edge on the bank of the river, but in reality emerging from an earth-cave artfully concealed by twigs and shembpesy Appeared the form of Omeeno, his face rende doubly hideous by the dirt mixed with the war-paint, ; CHAPTER IV. THE HORSE - THIEF. Just beneath the calf of the Indian’s leg, which had been laid bare, was a white band- age, showing where he had been wounded by hick’s bullet. It was a flesh wound, but must have been exceedingly painful, and yet, neither by grimace nor ether sign, did the red-man show the extent of bis suffering. His face was calm and stern—his keen, eagle eyes gleamed with as steady a light as if he were perfectly well, and about to start upon the war-path, or on a hunt- nog, SDE. rawling on his hands and knees, he gazed in the direction where Winnihah, followed by the trapper, had last disappeared, a half-ex- pectant look dually gathering upon his otherwise immobile countenance, For an hour he sat thus, when a light step sa- luted his ear, and a few minutes after, brea ng hi the shrubbery, came the Indian gir n “Tt is well,” said Omeeno; “has the white dog been led astray!” # Winnihab is well worthy to be Omeeno’s uaw |’ he girl cast down her eyes, and something like a shudder convulsed her frame. ‘« Winnibah is ready to help Omeeno, who be- longs to her tribe,” she answered. ‘‘ She will do whatever he wishes, So she promised Woo- no-lee, her mother, when she died.” S So saying, she sat down on the bank, but in- stead of looking at Omeeno, she gazed pensively into the stream. ‘Let us go,” said the Indian warrior. At these words the girl, disenga the canoe from the bushes, helped the wounded man into it, after which she proceeded to paddle down the stream. They had proceeded about five miles, when a house became visible, .sopmning up through a ve of small trees about four hundred yards m the river. It was a frame building, two stories in hight, built of logs closely cemented together with clay, and containing two windows on each side, On the first story a rude piazza had been erected; the railing com of thick, enor- mous | behind which a small pes reso- lute white men, sheltered, might keep hundreds of Indians at bay. The doors of the buildin were heavy and massive, also the shutters, an rovided with heavy iron bars, which protected em by being thrust through grooves on the inside. One of the windows was a few feet above a small stable,in rear of the building, near which the owner of the house sat upon b piazza under the shadow of a chestnut i smoking a huge pipe, as the canoe was impell swiftly shoreward. It was soon alongside the bank, when, throwing down_ his pipe, the smoker advanced toward it. He was a stout, heavily-framed man, of middle age, with a hard, repulsive countenance, lighted by a pair of small, ferret-like eyes. His dress consisted of a Jeather hunting-shirt, leggins, and pants of fringed deerskin. His face was almost as dark as a mulatto’s; in fact, it had been asserted that Pierre Leman—such was his name—had negro blood in his veins. It was also hinted by wandering trappers and others, who occasio.. now and then to visit him, that he was not over friendly to the whites; but so cunningly could he vail his real feelings, that there was no certainty upon the matter. Perbaps one reason for this su sition was the fact that Pierre could haye lived so long in this wild region without being mo- eaten tr the Indians who infested the country. There was his house, miles away from any other habitation, and yet it had stood for fifteen years without being touched by hostile hands, except- ing those of a party of Crows, who, however, had been repulsed with loss. One thing was certain; if Pierre was friendly to the Indians, then he must bave the means of getting on the right side of most all the tribes who knew of his whereabouts, and many of whom were at war with each other, Perhaps some idea of the way he mana do this may be arrived at, when it is sta’ Trapper often, at night, parties of Indians came to bis: house with stolen horses and other property, receiving in exchange fire-water and ammuani-- tion. Before break of day—indeed, sometimes at midnight—Pierre would start off with these horses, seeking some of the border settlements, where he would dispose of his stock to good ad- vantage. Such was the man who now came saunterinygr toward the canoe as Winnihah stepped fort! / and who took off his cap and bowed low, cv - dently much impressed by the beauty of tho *“‘ Ab, pretty one!” he exclaimed, ‘‘ come again —eh? Glad to see you! Who hev we hyar?’ pointing toward Omeeno, whose face being turned from him, he did not at once recognize. As the Indian looked round, however, glances of recognition passed between the two. ‘‘Qmeeno wounded,” said Winnihah, “he wish me to bring here.” ‘‘Oh! sartinly! you’re welcome! yow'll nurse him, | s’pose?” he added, leeringly at the girl. It was evident she did not like the glance, for she pouted and stamped one of her little feet, impatiently. * No,” she answered, “ Winniha must not ‘Not stay?” exclaimed Pierre, in a disap- pointed voice, ‘‘and why not?” ‘Got other work todo,” she briefty answered. The truth was that from the first moment, six: months before, Pierre, who was a bachelor, living with his niece—a pretty girl of fifteen—- had been smitten by the remarkable beauty of the dusky maiden. Anxious to procure her for his wife, he would readily have proposed to do- so to Omeeno, had the latter been ber father or brother. His being her lover, made Pierre, who from motives of interest was anxious to keep on friendly terms with the Indians, extremely cautious how he showed his passion to the flery son of the forest. ‘*Come on,” he said, ‘come on. The Indian shall be welcome until he is able to move about.” So saying, he helped Omeeno out of the canoe, and assisted by Winnihah, conducted him to the house. The party were met at the pate by Pierre’s ado daughter—a pretty girl of fifteen, with fae , rosy cheeks, and eyes that sparkled like stars Ada Leman, while she could handle a rifle or ride a horse with hunter-like dexterity, was an intelligent maiden, having read much that was. both interesting and instructive. Her disposi- tion was entirely different from Pierre’s, she being oa, affectionate and spirited at the same time. The sight of the wounded Indian seemed to rouse all the pity natural to the female bosom, and she hurried within to prepare the couch which was to receive the red-man. Soon the Indian was ensconced upon a com- fortable bed in a neat little chamber, overlook- ing the vast expanse of prairie-land bounded by blue bills in the rear of the house. “There!” ejaculated Winnihah, ‘‘ Omeeno wanted me to bring him here! ell, me done so. The white man will be kind to him, for the white men is a friend to all the Indians, so Omeeno said!” “Yes,” answered Pierre, ‘many wounded red-men have shared the hospitality of my roof, and hev paid arterwards with a present of horses. I hope this chap will get over the scratch he received.” As he spoke, bis eyes gleaming wistfully were turned toward Winnikob, one however, en- dured the glance with stoical calmness. “Don’t mind wound,” answered Omeeno, con- temptuously, ‘‘soon get over. Hope yet take scalp of one who give wound.” fh ete rd ; the Indi had explained all na few words, the Indivn explained all, and when he had concluded, Pierre frowned and shrugged his shoulders. “So that infernal Indian-fighter Red Claw war at the bottom of the bigness,” he said. ‘I never liked that chap or the boy with him. Whenever they see me they always look at me as ef they guessed what my bizness war, and they would like to put a stop to it. So you say the one-eyed ogre are smitten with Winnibah/” “Yes! know so—white man in love, like blind bird. Fly all round everywhere! one fool!” An idea seemed to flash upon the mind of the horse-thief. His brow darkened as he planned a scheme, “Tell yer what!” he said, brincing bis fist down on the table with great force. ‘I hev a to | plan. Ef Winnihah could only lure that one- that ' eyed chap hyar, I think—~”
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Senna The girl obeyed; but she had heard enough to comprehend, with ber knowledge of her uncle’s character, what were his intentions regarding the trapper. The moment she was gone, he continued: ‘Ture that feller hyar, and then—then she— 1 his Winnibah of ours—while he is shut up hyar <in go fur some of her tribe to come hyar and iiake him prisoner!” ‘Good! Winnihah shall do it!” exclaimed Omeeno, turning toward the Indian girl. She bowed meekly in acquiescence, and at once turned to depart, * Hold!” cried Pierre, “‘Omeeno says that you have already led the fellow on a false scent,” “ Yes!” cried Omeeno, *“‘she make him fol- low, so he get far away from spot where Omes- no hiding—Winnihah cunning as fox and bright as the sun!” The Indian smiled, for he was in a good hu- mor, The idea of getting Red Claw—the famed trapper and foe of the red-men—into the clutches of his tribe, was a pleasant one, and would reflect luster upon bis name. ** Where is the fellow, now?” inquired Pierre, ‘‘So many miles away from White river me teft him,” said the girl, counting on five fingers, ** going on wrong course!” ‘Well, see byar,” exclaimed Pierre, “ the Crows, who are at war with your tribe, may be met with on the way. Ef you should be taken pris’ner by them—” ‘“*A hundred Crows could not take Winni- hah!” said the girl, ag par: Seger up proudly. *‘ Winnibah’s step is like the wind. Run very fast.” “ Still yer mought be taken. Now, ef I went with you—” Winnihah shuddered, and hastened to inter- wupt bina: **No—no—go alone!” ‘* Be it so, then,” said Pierre, in a disappoint- “ed tone; ** but remember, ef anythicg happens to vou, it won’t be my fault!” Winnihah bowed, said a few words in the In- dian tongue to Omeeno, and then left the room, The horse-thief followed her to the door, but she did not give him a chance to say to her an- other word. Away she went, speeding to the river and at once embarking in ber canoe, Pierre stood watching her until her form bad disappeared round a bend in the river; then he entered the house. At dinner that day he said to Ada: ‘“*What did you guess was up, from what you heerd me say, before I ordered you to leave the room up stairs?” The girl frankly told him that she believed he meditated harm against the famous trapper, Red Claw—meant to insnare him into the hands of his enemies. ‘* Well, and what of it?” The girl colored deeply. The dark, snake-like eye of the other seemed to pierce her through. “Oh, uncle! have mercy upon him! Remem- ree and—and—his— son are good peo Pierre sneered. He could perceive that his niece had not forgotten the handsome, half. civilized Indian youth, Harry Chick, who, months before, met the girl traveling with her uncle across the prairie, Chick at the time was in the company of the trapper. who paused to exchange a few words with Pierre, with whom he was slightly acquainted. While the ‘wo were conversing Chick Te Ada several of j hose little courtesies natural between the young of opposite sexes. He brought her some water from a spring hard by, and made her a present of a pretty drinking-cup curiously fashioned out of laurel-wood. When they parted, the two bad been very agreeably impressed by each other; so much s0, in fact, on the part of Ada that she had carefully preserved the cup, locked up in a writing-d sk, ever since. : It was therefore natural that the girl, averse to cruelty of all kinds, should be doubly so where Chick was concerned. Pierre, however, who was anxious that she should endeavor to be- witch a certain wealthy Spanish planter named Pedro, disapproved of her penchant for the adop‘ted youth, “Girl!” he sternly exclaimed, ‘‘ what do you intend to do?” “ What can I do? For God’s sake, spare these men! Taey have never offended you. “No, not yet! But I can suspicion in their eyes every time we meet.” The girl said no more, and soon after Pierre ee eee onl Steer 2 left the room. Tben Ada, leaning her head upon her hand, reflected, She had seen, with the intuition of her sex, that Leman was smitten with the pretty Win- nihah, and knew therefore that this, more than any other, was the reason why he was so anx- ious to get out of the way the brave Red Claw, who, with his powerful will, might prove a formidable rival, “They shall not thus be entrapped!” ex- claim2d Ada, suddenly starting to her feet with flashing eyes. ‘*They shall not, if J can help it. I will at least make an effort to save them! This I would do,” she added, with heaving bo- som, *‘ even though they were perfect strangers to me.” As she spoke the dor suddenly opened, and Pierre, whose dark face discovered that he had heard every word, entered the room. “So you intend to play the rebel, eh?” he cried, sneering. ‘*‘ Come here!” He caught her by the arm, and without an- other word, drawing her to a small, dark room, containing one window, be thrust her therein, ” and closed and locked the door. Grieved and indignant, Ada threw herself down upon achair, weeping passionately. Soon, however, she dried her eyes and again fell to reflecting. The window of ber prison was be- yond her reach, but there was a bed in the room, by means of which she doubted not she could reach it. To remove the bars would not be difficult, as these were slipped loosely through iron grooves. After removing them, what next? The window was not more than ten feet above the roof of the stable where Pierre kept his own horses—a couple of thoroughbred coursers, as fleet and strong as the hurricane! It would, therefore, be easy enough to get from the window to the ground—the roof of the stable being sloping—and mount one of the horses, Chance, guided by a merciful Providence, and the knowledge Ada possessed of the country, must decide the rest. She would seek Red Claw and Chick, and if she succeeded in finding them, warn them of their danger! : Of resolute and decided nature, where her af- fections or feelings were enlisted, Ada pro- ceeded at once to carry her design of escape into execution. She was successful! While Pierre, little dreaming of what she was doing, was in the chamber of Omeeno, talking to the Indian, Ada, mounted on one of his fleet- ing steeds, was scouring through the forest! CHAPTER V. IN PERIL. On leaving Pierre’s house, Winnihah had re- paired to the canoe and commenced paddling up the river. She continued on to the spot whence she had embarked with the wounded Indian, and con- cealing the canoe, proceeded to hunt up the one- eyed trapper. Skilled in following trails, she soon was npon the man’s tracks. It was several hours before she came in sight of him, seated upon a shelf of one of the Ozark peaks; for in this direction the Indian girl’s steps had been turned, previous to her retracing her way back toward the White river. Upon the rocks which she had scaled her light step bad of course left no marks, so tbat, after tracing her thus far, Guy had been at fault, unable to determine whither she had gone after leaving this point. Wandering up and down, hither and thither aniong the hills, the trapper bad finally seated himself upon the shelf of rock alluded to. He bad been seated thus about an hour, when Winnibah again broke upon his sight. Climb- ing a lofty peak bebind bim, she contrived to attract by detaching some loose earth, and send- ing it rolling down the declivity. The re ou turned to see her standing in an attitude of the most bewitching grace. “Hello! beyootiful springing up. ““ Thar’s you, sure enough!” The mist by this time was nearly dissipated, but detached clouds of it still were rolling through the air. One of these clouds seemed to rest upon the head of the beautiful girl, and illuminated by the rays of the afternoon sun, resembled a crown of glory! To the trapper’s delight. the maiden beckoned | to bim with one arm, while the other was bus with the long, black tresses blown by the wi over her face. “Pf foller yer to the end of the ’arth!” cried one!” he exclaimed, per. 5 Red Claw, enthusiastically, as he clambered to- ward her; ‘‘ thar’s me /” He had nearly gained the summit of the peak, when the girl turned, beckoned to him again, and with a burst of silver laughter, fled, thus tempting him to the pursuit. This strange behavior, while it puzzled him, inspired the hunter with fresh ardor to overtake her. While completely fascinated by her beauty, he half feared that ber mind was de- ranged; for would a girl in her right senses beckon to him and then run away? No suspicion of foul play on the part of the beautiful siren entered his mind; still, with the caution obtained by long familiarity with In- dian cunning, the man kept his hand upon his rifle, ready to unsling it at a moment’s notice. Meanwhile ou went the girl, her course now leading along a high pepe wall toward the identical chasm which she had leaped on the day before, Did she intend to leap it again? Just as Red Claw asked himself this question, Winnibah paused, stood a moment with bead bent sideways in listening attitude; then, turning, fled in a direction at right-angles with that she had previously pursued, The air, the manner of the beautiful Indian, at once convinced Guy that there was peril of some kind in the direction her ear had been turned. Instead, therefore,of continuing to pursue the girl, he ran forward a few paces; then paused and listened in bis turn, to hear the searcely audible sound of footsteps approaching. That they were Indians, the trapper knew by the length of the strides, showed by the time in- tervening between each step. He ance toward the girl, and perceiving that she also had paused, motioned her to keep on. Instead, however, of obeying, she crouched down behind a rocky projection, where she re- mained, with earnest eyes awaiting what was to follow. A few minutes bad elapsed, when Guy sud- denly threw himself down flat, as the head of an Indian emerged to view above a cone of rock about fifty yards ahead. It was soon followed by another and another, until Guy counted a rty of six Indians, evidently Crows, advanc- ing in single file! Meanwhile the trapper bad the advantage of them in this,that while he could see the red-men they could not see him. n, however, he must be discovered if he re- mained in bis present position; so, crawling along on his hands and knees, he slowly ep- roached the spot containing the Indian girl. be latter, as he drew near, rose to her feet and fled with tke speed of a Ceer. Thus erect, her form was visible to the ad- vancing Crows, who, setting upa yell, instantly started in A pk : Should Red Claw remain in his present posi- tion, they must soon discover him; they must also do so if he attempted aretreat in the same direction whence he had come, In this dilemma, he concluded to craw! backward toward a rocky rift about ten feet bebind bim, which he could gain, he judged, before the Crows could come near enough to discover bim. Instantly he pro- ceeded to cerry out bis plan; and in a few min- utes, still undiscovered, was safely ensconced in the rocky rift. Thence be now cautiously watched the In- dians, who, intent upon overtaking the girl,were gazing toward her, their side faces being thus turned to the trapper. They were a warlike-looking set, armed to the teeth with rifles, tomahawks, and painted in a hideous manner. They ran with incredible swiftness, and yet not as fast as the fleet-footed Winnibab, who seemed to fairly skim along over the rocky ridges. Perceivirg this, Guy waited unti] the pursuers bad passed him a few hundreds of yards, when be emerged from his biding-place, and cautious- ly. yet swiftly, followed in their tracks. There were few men at that period as swift and agile footed as the famed trapper, Guy Winton, so that he contrived, by dodging about from rock to rock, to keep the dusky runners in sight. 4 As to Winnihah, she was by this time far abead, descending the mountain on the side to- wa Sue enought aN clar of th Y be mought cl’ar of them ecamps—thar’s her! Thenag’in she mought not,” cried the trapper, grasping bis rifle firmly. e knew that if speed had been all that was necessary for the girl’s escape, she would gt clear of her enemies, but unfortunatély, endur- cance was also required. She must soon become very breathless, and be obliged to stop, while
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6 mt ‘the red-men could run three times the distance ey passed over without its telling upon em. Winnihah was also well aware of this, and, herefore, feeling that she must soon stop, she esolved upon strategy. Turning and ascertaining the exact situation of ber enemies, she suddenly sprung upon a rocky ledge, protruding from the side of one of those stupendous, apparently unfathomable ravines, which split the rocks of the Ozark range. The slightest misstep on the part of the brave girl must cause her to fall into the dark depths, but she kept on with steady, unfaltering steps, proceeding at a walk which might enable her to recover her breath. Meanwhile, her pursuers now were unable to see her, the ledge ing some ten feet beneath the a edge of the ravine. All along the sides of the ravine, above the girl’s head, here and there protruding from rifte, were clumps of laare! bushes and other kinds of shrubbery, This Winnihab looked upon as a fortunate cir- cumstance, for she intended soon to clamber up and screen herself among the bushes, These becoming thicker as she proceeded, she resolved to roe on a ways further before hiding herself. Soon, however, sbe paused, for a startling fact was now made known to her, one which caused the blood to fairly curdle in her veins, As mentioned, the ledge extended along the side of the ravine; but it was not the same width its whole extent. It kept growing narrower and narrower, until finally it tapered off, as it were, into nothing, mingling with the rest of bes —o, so that at this point there was no ledge The Indian girl glanced upward and perceived that the bushes did not grow near enough to the top for her to reach it in this manner; then she vlanced downward into the dark, yawning ‘depths, and for a moment her brain grew dizzy. t was, however, only for a moment. The next she recovered ber resolution and decided upon her course, which was to proceed straight forward a few more yards, and then clamber up and conceal herself among the bushes. She did so, climbing from a point where the ledge was almost too narrow to afford a footing, the bet- ter to render her capture impossible. Méanwhile the Crows, keeping on, soon ar- rived at the edge of the ravine. Here they used, as if in doubt, holding a consultation. bey had seen the girl spring downward, and several of them seemed to think that sbe had plunged into the ravine to escape her pursuers, preferring death tocapture. The rest, however, glancing keenly along the bushes, at once di- vined that Winnihah had hidden herself some- where in the shrubbery. The moment this suspicion was made known the red-men all sprung upon the ledge, and with almost incredible swiftness proceeded along it in single file. ot unwatched, however, for Red Claw, soon arriving upon the edge of the gully, saw them, and at once divining all, kept close bebind them, screened, as he proceeded, by the rocky projec- tions upon tue upper edge of the hollow. The Crows continued on, and finally arrived at the point which would not permit them to go further, when the foremost paused and glanced keenly up among the shrubbery. This, however, was so thick that Winnibab could not be detected, while there was not the slightest movement on the part of the concealed one to show ber whereabouts. She had reached her hiding-place, and there ensconced herself without displacing the shrubbery, rather gliding than climbing to her position: so that the In- dians could not discever any sign of her. A whispered consultation was held: tbe red-men were all now inclined to believe that the girl had really sprung from the rocky hight. To make sure, however, one of them hurled his tomahawk into the shrubbery, and was about climbing up to commence a search, when the Indian maiden, who had been obliged to dedge the weapon, in regaining her position made a rustling in the bushes. With « yell of triumph, he who bad buried the tomahawk now scram- bled quickly toward her, while, drawing herself along a few yards, Wionihah clung to the stem of a laurel bush with both bands, her feet bang- ing down toward the deep, impenetrable chasm of the ravine! Notwithstanding the peril of her situation, the gir] showed no sign of fear. “Back!” she exclaimed in broken English, addressing her enemies. ‘Crows never get — She let go root, and drop down into ravine! Even the Crows seemed appalled by the girl’s Red Claw, the One- i Se eee ee ee ee a 7 - 4 peril, while a murmur of admiration circulated among them at her exhibition of dauntless cour- age. Pity, however, formed no part of these sav- age breasts. The red-men crawled toward her, and the foremost was within a few yards of her, when, compressing ber lips, she prepared for the fearful descent into death and eternity! In fact, she was about letting go her hold on the laurel bush, when the voice of Red Claw was suddenly heard, splitting the air like a thunderbolt. ‘Hold on, gal—thar’s you! As sure as etar- nity I'll settle them Crows for yer, and make ’em crow on t’other side of thar mouths!” On hearing the voice the Indians all turned simultaneously, when the sharp report of the trapper’s rifle rung out upon the air, and down went the foremost Indian, tumbling, with one wild, prolonged scream into the fathomless chasm. Perceiving that assistance was so close at hand, Winnihab now clung resolutely to the bush, while Red Claw, still lying upon his belly, proceeded to reload, The position of the man was peculiarly ad- vantageous; so much s0, in fact, that he had the gang of Crows completely at his mercy. This may be easily understood. In the first place, the protuberant ridze of rock, extending along the upper side of the ravine, behind which the man Jay, would com- pletely screen him from the shots of the Indians, who were too close to the inside of the ravin- to bring their pier in range of bim, while, on the contrary Claw being above, and the ridge being sloping, could at any moment pick off one or two of their number with his rifle. Secondly, as the Indians could only proceed along the ledge in single file, the trapper could load and retreat fast enough to keep them all in check, if noc shoot every man of their number before they could get back to the point whence they had started, his the Crows readily perceived, and although evidently much mortified at the manner in which they had been outwitted, their prone, sullen countenances betrayed no emo- ion. “Come,” continued Guy, when he had re- loaded, ‘‘ jist walk back now, every man of you. Ef yer don’t, I'll hev yer all roasted in brim- stone—thar’s you /” : ; The Indians stood exchanging glances a few moments, then quick words passed’ between them, after which, as by agreement, they darted up into the shrubbery and there screened them- selves. apres determined to make sure of the death of Winnihah, several of them now made a spring for the girl. Knowing that she was guarded from above, however. she still clang to the bush, when Guy’s rifl again cracked, sending another Crow to eternity! The others then sbrunk back to their retreat among the bushes, where several of them held a whispered consultation. Meanwhile, Guy labored under extreme anguish of mind, He feared every moment that the Crows, baffled in their intention o peptnsiag, Winnibab, would send a_ bullet through her brain. Perhaps they would have done so ere this but for the extreme soe hg of handling their rifles while in their present situa- tion, each being obliged to hold one hand at least to a bush. The trapper, therefore, resolved to attempt the rescue of the Indian girl, by means of tre line of deer hide which he carried slung over bis shoulders, ; Forming a bowline hitch at the end, he quickly lowered it to the girl, instructing her to fasten it under her armpits. To accomplish this, she was obliged to let go the bush with one band. As she did so, the twig cracked and a mass of detached earth rolling down from around the roots, seemed to betoken that the bush would s00n give way. “Quick, gal, quick—thar’s you!” shrieked Guy, in an agony of suspense, Another cracking of the twig! The sweat. came out in big drops on the brow of the trap- Pein SSDs in his excitement, trembled in every ibs. Soon, however, he breathed freely. The girl had secured the line around her breast, just beneath her armpits, and the man commenced to haul her up. : At this, the baffled Indians age fiercely, and several of them contrived discharge their rifles, which, however, owing to their awkward position, fell wide of the mark. An instant later the girl was safe by the side of Red Claw, Eyed Trapper. “ Now ooty !” he exclaimed, ‘‘ you are al} right for the present. None of that, you infar- nal red skunks!” he added, pone his rifle at one of the Indians, who, followed by several others, was about taking advantage of his being engaged to make an escape along the ledge. They retreated, however, the moment the trapper spoke. As they did so, he turned, to discover that Winnihah, after being s0 nobly rescued by him, was speeding away with the swiftness of a deer. ‘‘Ah, my purty one!” moaned Guy, in a grieved voice, ‘this are sarving a poor fellow very bad, Well, well, I don’t s’pose the gal knows what she are about. In my opinion, she are half-witted?”’ So saying, be adopted a stratagem to keep the Crows where they were, for some time at least, while he went on in pursuit of Winni- hah. Crouching down, be fixed his bear-skin cap so that, just visible above the ridge, it would give the Indians the idea that he was still lying on his belly watching them. Apother—one more cruel than the trapper— might not have quitted the spot until be had shot every one of the red-‘men; but Guy was averse to ticoduhed, except in defense of himself or others. “Thar, red-skins!” be muttered, as he quitted the spot and hastened after the girl, ‘hope yeu'l. hev a pleasant time of it—thar’s you /” CHAPTER VL THE MERTING. Crick bad searched a long time for his mas- ter, but, owing to the tra ’s ascending the rocks, he bad lost track of bim. Concludin that Red Claw had crossed the mountains and gone back to the cabin in the woods, the boy proceeded at once in that direction. He had not gone far, however, when he came upon tke un- pr aygoeralog tracks of Indians, leading the oppo- site way. He halted and hesitated a moment whether to follow the trail or keep on toward the cabin.. While thinking, the familiar report of Red ty rifle up among the mountains decided m. He would have known the sound of that rifle anywhere, from the peculiar spiteful crack of the piece. : Turning, therefore, he hastened in the direc- tion of the noise, and was soon climbing the mountains. As bas been mentioned, a considerable period of time—almost an hour—elapsed before the rifle was discharged, so that Chick, having no guide to direct him, had traveled some distance on the wrong course before the second report greeted his ears. Following this, he hurried swiftly along, but as his way was impeded by projections and rifts, he was hardly within balf a mile of the scene of peril, when the third report— tbls pe from the rifles of the Indians—was eard. He kept on, and in the course of an bour ar- rived at the point where Winnibah’s rescue had taken place; but by this time the Indians bad discovered the stratagem Guy bad played them, and made off, so that Chick could now de- tect no sign of what had taken place except a ooree displacement of the shrubbery above the ledge. That the reports of the rifles had proceeded from here, he therefore felt convin and the fear that Red Claw had been captured came across his mind, filling it with great anxiety. He believed to bave discovered confirmation of his fears, when, chancing to move a short dis- tance from tbe ledge, be came upon the rem- nants of Guy’s bear-skin cap, hacked to pieces, and apparently by tomabawks! He picked up the remnants, and in no easy frame of mind continued bis way, using his eyes and ears as be p ed. Before night he had descended the mountains on the side toward the White river, without yet seeing any sign of his master, when, filled with gloomy forebodings, he sat down upon a moss- covered stone, and having peraken of the frugal contents of his haversack, he bowed his face on. his hands, He was roused from his meditations by the sound of horses’ hoofs, and glancing * h a grove of trees in the distance, he caught sight. of a white girl mounted upon a borse, ag. if for her life. ; To spring to his feet and hasten Soe as to intercept her and inquire the cause oi ber
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riding so fast, was, with the boy, the work of a moment. Moving on a course at right-angles to that taken by the rider, he came upon her as ghe was dashing on toward the mountains. The moment he recognized the fair rider, who, as stated, was none other than Ada Leman, he blushed to the brows, while bis eyes glowed with delight. She recognized him, and at once stopped her horse, when he lifted his cap and bowed to her. - “Let me see: your name is Chick,” she said, lewering her eyes before bis ardent glance. “Yes—so Guy calls me.” “Where is Guy now?—that is Red Claw, is it not?” “Yes. Me know not where he is now; been leoking for him, but can not find; ’fraid been taken prisoner.” And he went on to explain. “This is too bad!” exclaimed the girl, sorrow- fully. ‘‘I bave ridden expressly to seek him and warn him of peril—all the way from my uncle’s house.” Sbe then proceeded to describe the scheme for his capture concocted by Pierre and Omeeno, “ Brave girl—good as beautiful!” said Chick, again bowing to the maiden. he girl blushed and looked pleased. “My errand being done, I will now go back,” she said. “Me see safe home?” ‘*Oh no; Iam not afraid. It is not five miles from here to my uncle's house.” * Crows on war-path—Indians not far off— see trail,” said Chick; ‘‘ so think better see safe home.” “Had you not better see Winton, so as to tell him of the scheme of my uncle?” “Me been look all over; can not find; better go with girl safe home.” ** My uncle would not like it,” said Ada, who evidently was not at all displeased with the offer; ‘‘ he would contrive some way to punish ou. - The boy drew himself up. “Not afraid! Chick not afraid of any man!” he said, defiantly. meu, shots was nothing boastful in the way he spoke. He made the remark with that quiet consciousness of power which, as often as mod- ety is the proof of merit. eanwhile his eyes remained fixed upon the beautiful form and face of the rider, Having come out without her hat, her dark curls, slightly tinged with gold, rippled all round her shoulders, kissed by the south wind, while her eyes glowed as brightly as stars, Her cheeks, Seshod with exercise, were fresher than the rosy down upon the peach, while her lips, half parted, revealed her even teeth, as white as the ridges we see between the crimson folds of the seashell. She was an excellent horsewoman, and sat the animal with unrivaled grace, her tiny feet just visible beneath the skirt. “Well, if you can not find Guy, and—and— you choose to accompany me within sight of the house, you may do so,” answered the girl. According! the two were soon moving in the tion of Pierre’s residence, Chick, with agile For keeping pace with the horse whose rein he The two bad not proceeded far on their way, when they saw a horseman approaching. Ashe drew nearer, Ada shuddered. t us turn aside,” she said, “into that grove of trees, and perhaps he will not see us.” The boy complied, leading the horse into the grove, but not in time to escape the observa- tion ef the borseman, who, seeing them, urged his steed toward them at a ewifter pace than before. As the horse drew nearer, it was discovered to be of a coal-black color, and its rider to agree with it in this, that his skin was of the dusky olive tint, and his eyes of the deep, dark, pecu- liar hue and expression belonging to the sons of Spain. He was tall and powerfully built, his hair straight and black, and he carried, besides ship. His pants were of canvas, tucked into high ridin Again Ada shuddered. “ Who is it?’ whispered the boy. “Tt is Don Pedro—the wealthy Spanish planter, with whom my uncle wishes me to wed—or rather,” she added, ber brow crimson- ing and her eyes flashing, “to whom he to SELL ME!” ‘He never do that?” cried Chick, firing; “not if you let me prevent!” And the boy laid his hand upon his rifle. Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. : ‘* No, there must be no bloodshed!” she almost shrieked, detaining the ready band. Chick, therefo folding his arms over his chest, quietly s watching the horseman as he drew near, and contemptuously returning his haughty stare. The moment he was within a few yards of the girl, the nian took off his cap and bowed smilingly. ‘‘Ho! ho! So the truant is found!” said he. “Your father sent me, or rather I volunteered to go, in search of you!” ‘*T had rather you bad staid away, sir,” an- swered the girl, spiritedly. The Spaniard’s eyes flashed fire, but he bit his lips and controlled himself. ‘So this is the way you treat my kindness?” he said. ‘‘ Here I have come, all the way from New Orleans, to invite you and your uncle to my plantation, thinking you would like the trip, and yet— “No more, sir, I beg. I see through your motives; I understand all. Now, mark my words, I will never be your wife!” A strange seus mingled with the dark olive tint of the Spariiard’s face. His anger was great, but the exceeding beauty of the speaker smothered it, and fired him with a determina- tion to obtain her at all hazards. From the towing cheek, the dark, glossy curls, the heav- ng bosom, he glanced toward Chiex, and in the latter’s eyes read an admiration which it struck him was not disagreeably received by the girl. ‘* Who is this fellow?” he inquired, roughly. ‘It is Chick,” answered Ada, blushing. ‘‘Chick, the chicken-hearted, I presume,” ex- claimed Pedro, laughing contemptuously. A quick flash same to the boy’s eyes; his whole frame trembled with passion. e said not a word. ; Pedro eyed him steadily, as if expecting some reply; but the youth maintained a steady si- lence. ‘¢He looks marvelously like a red-skin,” ex- clai':ed Pedro. ‘If I should meet him alone on the prairie, I should be apt to shoot him like a dog. “Stop, sir!” exclaimed Ada; “he is my friend, and I will not have him insulted.” * He is well named Chick,” said the Spaniard, coolly, ‘‘seeing that he is protected by a wo- man Something in the boy’s eyes seemed to con- vinee the Spaniard that be was not quite such a coward as he had supposed. Anxious to pick a quarrel, and thus, if possible, rid himself of his rival, the horseman finally contrived to jostle the boy's head with his elbow, knocking off his cap. Still the youth said not a word, but quietly stooped and picked up the cap, As he did so, the Spaniard, remarking that he (the boy) was too near his horse and might get run over, dealt him a smart cut across the with the end of bis rein, Calmly, to all appearance, the youth rose to his feet, except that the rings around his eye- balls seemed to expand. ‘*Come!” said the Spaniard, turning to Ada, ‘Jet me have the honor of escorting you to the house.” ‘*T am able to go alone,” she briefly answered, at the same time directing a half-pitying glance at Chick for the seeming lack of spirit he had shown, ; ; So saying, she dashed off in the direction of the building with the speed of the wind. The Spaniard, putting spurs to his horse, fol- lowed her, to see her enter the house before he could reach the door, Ere he could dismount, he felt a hand upon his coat and glanced down, to behold Chick, who, at the same moment vaulted upon the horse’s back behind him. ; ‘“What do you mean, boy?’ the Spaniard sternly inquired. ‘ As he spoke, he encountered those ringed eye- balls close to his face. ‘“‘T mean that ONE OF US SHALL NEVER LEAVE THIS HORSE ALIVE!” ] Then raising his voice to its highest. pitch, the lad uttered a wild Indian st 2 which, frightening the steed, sent the animal dashing past the building toward the bank of the White river, with the speed of a whirlwind. d The Spaniard having vainly endeavored to check the mad career of the horse, whirled him- self round in his saddle and confronted the boy, who had caught him by the throat. Both were equally expert riders, pontoons home in al- most all positions upon the back of a fying steed, but the Spaniard, of course, had the ad- vantage of the boy in pant of strength. Grasp- ing him by the wrist, be succeeded in disengag- a a en ny ———$————— ing the band at his throat, while with his own disengaged one, he pulled a pistol from a hol- ster, ee pointed it at the youth’s head, The latter had no gato), but his rifle, soon un- slung from his back, answered him instead, Bracing the middle of the barrel against his bip, he pointed the muzzle at the Spaniard’s temple, his hand grasping the trigger. Both pulled trigger at once and both missed, each buljet flying over the head of him for whom it was intended, The reason of this was that each of the contes-; tants had knocked aside the other’s weapon at the same moment; the Spaniard having let go the boy’s wrist for that purpose. With an oath, the Spaniard struck the lad over the bead with the butt of his weapon, thus knocking him balf-unconscious from tbe back of the horse, just as the animal gained the bank of the river. The fallen one struck the bank and thence rolled off into the water, the current of which carried him down-stream with the swift- ness of a shot, Meanwhile, the Spaniard, now alone, caught his rein, and his borse being checked by sinkin into the soft soil of the bank, he finally decent ed in regaining control of him, Bending far over he then glanced down the stream, hold the buy Chick, far away, endeavoring to climb the side of the bank. Laughing derisively, be returned to Pierre's house, and entering, gave a brief account to bis host of the adventure met with. CHAPTER VII. WINNIHAH AND THE TRAPPER. At the moment when Pedro entered, the borse-stealer was sbarply reproving his niece for the part she had acted, “Stop that, friend Pierre!” exclaimed Pedro: ‘if Lforgive her, 1’m sure you should. I feel certain that she will never attempt anything of the kind again?’ After he had related his adventure, he turned toward the girl with an air of trium Mh. “You perceive how easy it is to silence lnperthient dogs of that young fellow’s caliber.” Ada’s eyes flashed. “You are insulting!” the exclaimed, will not stay to listen to such a ruffian!” And she swept out of the room, The shadows of night now were gathering. Lamps were lighted by Pierre, and the two men sat by a table, to talk of their affairs over & bot- tle of good wine, ; Meanwhile the wind rose howling, and the house sbook, while tbpopah the windows glimp- ses of the moon now and then were caught as the planet became visible between masses of jagged, flying clouds. ‘T tell you what it is, Pierre,” said the Span- iard, ‘1 must have that girl. Santa Maria! what a spirit she bas got, and what pleasure it would be for me totameit.” he “As I bave told you before, you may have her for the sum of four thousand dollars—not centless!” ‘So you are still willing to sell her?” “ You must know—in fact lL think 1 bave told you—tbat the girl is no relative of mine, Bhe was left to gf care by a sick old negress, who stopped one day for shelter in this house, and died before morning. The woman told me be- fore she expired, that Ada was the daugbter of a southern p:anter, named Reynolds, who bad died poor, without a relative in the world, leay- ing the child to her care, Her being nothing to me, therefore, I am willing to sell her!” ** Ada does not think you would sell her!” ‘‘No; but 1 intend to undeceive her the mo- ment you consent to buy be: ?” ** Four thousand dollars is a big sum to pay.” “You can afford it easily, If there sbould happen to be law trouble about the matter, I cab oy that I had reason to think the girl had negro blood in her veins, by her being left here by a black!” This agreement was settled, when tbere was a knock at the door, and at Pierre’s exclama- tion, **Come in!” Winnibah entered the apart- ment. Her bright bair was blown all about her shoulders in wild confusion, and her large derk eyes flashed a peculier light. Shes inthe middle of the floor, half shrinking before the Spaniard’s admiring glance. ade ‘‘Santa Maria! what a beauty!” exclaimed the planter. ‘Ay, but. she can’t compare to Ada!” whis- pered Pierre, uneasily, fearful that the girl’s charms might turn the man’s frivolous nature | from his original purpose. t dadic “Don’t be afraid!” exclaimed Pedro, © ycur blue-eyed beauties for me! J can admire dp: k a | -
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i eee one whose complexion differs from mine “Well!” cried Pierre, turning to the girl,” ‘‘what news ? Have you cncradaed in bringing the Red Claw hyar?” Ben as he spoke, there was another knock at the door, which being opened, admitted the one- eyed trapper. She latter’s first glance was directed at Win- nihah, his next at Pierre, and his third at the Spaniard, who half shrunk beneath the fire of that one yf br “Well, Injun gal!” exclaimed Red Claw, as he stepped toward her, hat in band, “ I’ve come up with yer at last, and I hope t’other parties will excuse my abrupt intrusion—thar’s them!” se fede a cried Pierre, with well dissem- bled hospitality; “‘ you are perfectly welcome, Red Claw, perfectly !” On hearing this name, the Spaniard surveyed, with no little curiosity, a man who had earned #0 wide a reputation for skill and courage. Envy and jealousy, however, were mingled with the respect he could not help feeling for the dauntless trapper. He longed to humble him, to prove his own: superiority to this man by combat with him or otherwise; a feeling in- herent in all breathing animals endowed like Pedro with plenty of brute courage, “Tm sartinly glad to hear yer say I’m wel- come, Pierre Leman,” answered Guy; how's yer purty niece?” ‘Well, thank you!” “She’s a good gal—thar’s her! And now Winnihah, I’m moughty glad to see yer, and hope you weren’t injured by them Crows, which I'd hev been willin’ should hev. walked over my buddy than hev harmed one of your purty ha’rs!” The girl looked at him steadily. ‘‘ Winnihah thanks the white man for saving her life, but he must not follow her any more.” “Yer hate me on account of my one eyel” cried Red Claw, putting a finger upon the lash of the orb; “ thar’s it!” ‘“Winnibah does not hate; but the white man had better go away from bere!” she added, heed- less of the glance and sign made to her by Pierre. He readily perceived that the girl’s gratitude to the trapper for having saved her life was be- ginn to tell. Fearful that she might over- throw his schemes, he turned toward her, asking her if she did not wish to go and see Omeeno, in the other room. She bowed acquiescence, when Pierre opening the door for her, bade her keep samy +> along the entry until she came to the first door upon be a right, the one opening upon Omeeno’s cham- r. When rid of the Indian maiden, Pierre turned toward the trapper, whose face was dark with jealousy and disappointment. ‘She was very fond of Omeeno!” continued Pierre, not caring to soothe the feeling, “ and she wants to nurse him!” ‘So that infarnal red-skin are in his house?” eried Guy. “Yes; tho gal brought him hyar, and I couldn’t refuse a request from her!” Meanwhile Winnihah had just entered the chamber, when there was a knock at the door, on opening which, the Indian girl beheld Ada, with & tumbler of drink for the wounded man. Full of womanly pity, this gentle one, no mat- ter what might be her own sufferings, could never de those of others. The Indian took the tumbler; then fixing her dark eyes keenly 4 the face of Ada, she said . a voice too low to be heard by the wounded ndian; “The white bird is very good. The Indian girl is fore too, but in a different way. A lit- tle while ago, she would have taken the life of the great one-eye Red Claw! Now she has lost heart to do it, for the white brave saved her life! There are others, that still long for bis blood: Omeeno and the white bird’s father !” “They can never capture him!” “What! does not the white bird know that he now is in the house?” ‘* Here—in this house?” **-Yes—he followed Winnihah!” added the softly; ‘‘he must not follow more!” “Tam glad you told me this,” said Ada, “TI have long known that my uncle did not like the _ trapper! Now I’m certain he will try to do him "ike : white bird must try to save him!” Omeeno, who had previously been asleep, was now stirring in his wherefore Win- nibah made a sign to Ada to quit the apart- ment, She did so, resolving in her own heart that she would do all in her power to prevent her uncle injaciis the trapper—the father of the — whom she od gr and for whom, since he ad given such proof 0} by his attack upon the Spaniard, she felt all that respect ex- cited in the female bosom by masculine courage. Guy Winton sat down, and the Spaniard at once began to converse with him. “They tell me you never miss fire with the rifle?” ‘*No, I never hev yet, but I mought on a pinch. Sometimes thar’s things happens to make a man’s narves shaky in spite of bim— thar’s it [”’ ** Doubtless, although I can say that I never had such a feeling!” “Thar’s whar you and I differ. I war once deluded into drinkin’ a quart o’ whisky, which ] must confess, made my narves shake some, hev never touched the pesky stuff arter that!” ‘Won't you hev a glass of wine?” inquired Pierre. ‘No, thank yer. I’ve objured fire-water altogether—thar’s me !” “Will you stay here all night?” asked the horse-thief, well-knowing that with Winnihah beneath the roof nothing could give Guy greater pleasure. “Ef yer please,” An hour later he was shown to his chamber— one adjoining that from which Ada had, ona previous occasion, made her escape. Divesting himself of his hunting-shirt, the trapper sat down on the side of the bed, pre- vious to retiring, and fell into a deep reverie, the foremost subject of which was beautiful Winnihab. The fascination of this dusky siren had taken deep hold of bis simple nature. In his whole experience, he had never seen ber equal—and while her dark eyes seemed to burn into his soul, her voice, silver-toned like a bell, made his heart strings vibrate even when she was absent. “ Ef it wasn’t fer this ’ere one eye!” he mut- tered remorsefully, shaking his head, and put- ting his finger upon the orb, ‘I mought awaken a sympathetical concord in that buzzum— thar’s me !” Suddenly he thought he heard a light tap at the door. He listened, but the knock was not —— Glancin downward, however, he beheld something white, which had been thrust through the crack of the door. , He picked it up, to discover that it was a note containing these words: “There is a scheme here to take your life. You will be attacked by my uncle or the Spaniard, to- night. You had better leave the house. Be careful lest you are heard. Apa Leman.” This note he thrust into bis pocket; then he filled his pipe and having lighted it, again in- dulged in pleasant thoughts of Winnihah. Nevertheless, although reckless of life, when occasion required, Guy was not a man to throw that life away needlessly. He resolved to leave the house, after which he could hover in its vicinity, still keeping an eye upon the girl of his fancy. With this resolution he rose to open the door, when he discovered that it was locked on the outside; a circumstance which it was evident Ada had not perceived when she came to bring the note. The effect upon the trapper of this discover was not very great. Hequietly shook his head, and having procured his rifle and looked to see that it was in good condition, he againsat down upon the bed with the weapon across his knees, Ps one eye turned indifferently toward the oor, A couple of hours had passed, when he heard a key turn in the lock, the door opened, and in — the horse thief Pierre, with a dirk in one and. On seeing the trapper smoking, he showed some surprise, but quickly after composed his features, } “Won't yer sit down?” queried Guy, with sar- castic politeness, as he rose; ‘‘ the honor of sich a visit, I don’t think I shall ever forgit—thar’s me!’ ‘I will be frank with you?” said Pierre; ‘I came to take your life!” “While I war asleep, possibly! Yer ma save yourself the trouble, as I jist as lief die awake and take you along with me—thar’s ou! “How kind you are!” exclaimed Pierre with m amazement, ‘‘and now listen to me. I ve every reason to believe that you, more than any other man, suspect “34 business; for that reason, to avoid ao A to trouble, I think I shall hev to take yer life; otherwise you may get my head in a noose!” “TI hey had my suspicions about you.” an- swered Guy, ‘‘and hev intended to look into your affairs, and ef I found you guilty, to give you notice either to c’lar out from. these parts or be ee “Which you will never bev a chance to do. I’ve heard of your threats from many other trappers, met from time to time, and now ef you’ve us prayers to say, you’d better get to work, ou mought holler and holler, but no rson in this bouse would keer for you in the east, even ef they heard you!” ‘‘Thunderation! kin yer think that I’d holler fur sich as you? Id sooner be scalped and cut into hoss-meat—thar’s me!” Pierre glared upon the man like a panther; then with a sudden spring, he pounced upon him, catching bim by the throat with one hand, while lifting his dirk with the other, The conduct of Red Claw at this crisis is well worthy of description. Holding to bis rifle, he whirled it round, butt foremost, and drawing it back, dealt the horse-thief between the cre a blow which nearly stunned bim, causing him to let. go bis hold. The man, screaming for assistance to his guest—the Spaniard Pedro—in another part of the house, roused the latter, who at once, armed with a revolver, came flying to his assistance. Meanwhile Red Claw, throwing himself upon Pierre, had, with his deer-hide, secured his arms, so that he now lay nearly helpless upon the floor. As the Spaniard entered, ver, the trapper. sprung to glaring eye upon him. ‘Hello! so you hev come to help? Blaze away, ef yer like, and we’!l both go to eternity —thar’s us?” So saying, he sprung for his rifle, which he had left lyin upon the bed when he threw Pierre down. Before he could get to the weapon, however, the Spaniard discharged his pistol— the ball of which ei oS the oaken bed-post, passed through it, and being thus turned from its course, just grazed the trapper’s neck. ‘* A miss are as good as a mile—thar’s it!” ex- claimed Red Claw, as he picked up bis rifls, just as the Spaniard was about firing another shot. Both pulled trigger at once; but Red Claw’s cap did not explode, while the Spaniard’s bullet went flying up into the ceiling. At the same moment the voices of Winnibah and Ada were heard, the latter, who bad just arrived upon the scene, having knocked up the Spear arm. ‘¢ No—no—you shall not take his life!” she ex- claimed. ‘Shame! shame!” She clung to the Spaniard, to prevent his fir- ing another shot, at the same time begging Red Claw to leave the house, “Of course, ef you require it, m prey one!’ answered Guy; ‘‘ but 1 should like to hev this ’ere Don, which hev seemed so anxious to help my enemy, go out with me, so that wemay fight out our scrimmage, and theraway prevent any futur’ ill-blood atween us—thar’s me!” “No, there shall be no fighting!” cried Ada, imperatively; ‘‘I will not hear to itt” “ Beauty must be obeyed,” said Pedro, bow- ing. ‘As to you, I am at your service any time,” he added, turning to Red Claw, “I’m always at yours. Ef we don’t meet now, we may hev a cbavce in the futur’, I don’t like to take human life when I kin help it, but ef I can’t it’s a different matter—thar’s it!” “T have nothing against you,” said Pedro, except your attack upon my host; but, of course, as you seem to want to fight with me I shall not refuse,” “Thar’s whar you are right; and now, this ere matter bein’ settled to the saterfaction of all parties, I'll jist take a smoke and bid you all good-night.” } As he spoke, be walked up to Winnibah and held out his hand. She took it, and the trapper was delighted to feel a sligbt pressure, “Tl see you again soon, purty Injun gal,” he exclaimed, as he turned and quitted the room, Soon after, he left the house. CHAPTER VIII. BOUND zo THE Pink ne PrmeRRE being untied, sprung is feet. “T am sorry you permitted that scoundrel to escape!” he exclaimed. ‘‘I expect he'll soon hev me arrested now, and git my head into a nore not,” answered th iard, as he “ Fear e Spaniard, glanced toward Winnibab; “here is one who will peenen Dis cars | this locality. Where he ere a . , A en us,” said Pierre; “I wish to speak with Ada.” inting his revol- is feet, fixing his
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m ‘trot, Ada did not an Winnihab had previously withdrawn, as to the niard, he left the room immediately. ‘*You will hold yourself in readiness to start to-morrow morning.” To start? Where?” “To go with Pedro; he has bought you!” “Bought me! What mean you! Remember, I am an American girl!” ‘‘T™here’s negro blood in your veins, Your mother was a mulatto!” | Having never previously heard this subject 1inted at, Ada stood like one thunderstruck. “This is false!” ‘* Before God, 1 believe it true!” The girl’s head drooped; then she looked up, her eyes flashing, her cheek glowing. ‘*No, no; there must be sume mistake!” _“Ttis notso. Therefore I have sold you to Pedro for four thousand dollars. I hope you will make him a good—a good—servant! “SERVANT?” The blue eyes fairly seemed to blaze, while the lip curled with scorn. “Yes, a good servant.” ‘‘T, an AMERICAN GIRL, THE SERVANT OF A SPANIARD! I call Heaven to witness that I would sooner be tortured, racked from limb to timb, all my life!” “This is nonsense. Pedro has bought you, and will take you with him to-morrow, He said no more, but left the room, taking care to lock the door after him. There was no way of escape from this apartment, the window being too high from the ground. ss ee muttered Ada; “ we shall see!” Sleepless she sat upon the side of the bed all night long. When morning came, her door was opened by Pierre. The man was cruel and heartless; still his con- science reproached him a little at the miserable aspect the girl presented. ** Bear up bravely,” said he. ‘ You will not find Pedro hard upon you. Had I sup he would be, I would not have permit him to take you. Ada looked steadily in the man’s face. “You care nuthing for me, or you would never have done this thing. Money is your God. we let it be so, and may our parting be for- ‘5 One thing you know, Ada: I ama poor man, and— ‘*Go, leave me, and seek not to excuse your wretched conduct. Thank God, you are no relative of mine!” ‘Come, have some breakfast before you go,” This she refused, saying she would not eat under the roof of a man who bad sold her. Pierre now seeming to lose patience, frowned and left the room, locking the door after him. Half an hour later it was again opened, this time by Pierre, accompanied by the Spaniard. The latter, previously so courteous to the girl, now eyed her with the air of a master to whom sbe belonged by right of purchase, ‘*Come,” said he, ‘‘it’s time we were on the “i We have many a mile to go.” E ‘‘T suppose you are aware to whom speak?” cried Ada, spiritedly. ed “T have bought you: you are mine,” was the y. ‘AMERICANS ARE NEVER BOUGHT; AMERI- CANS CAN NOT BE SLAVES!” exclaimed the girl, drawing herself up, proudly. ** You must go with me!’ ae a a =a ‘* Well, if you will not go I will ca ou,” eried the Spani.rd, advancing Mew at sey . She shuddered at the idea of his touching her. As he approached she gave Pierre a glance of contempt and loathing, and then walked straight forward out of the door. “JT will go sooner than be touched by your nands,” she said, turning to Pedro. “Wait uotil I get you on my plantation!” cried the latter, sneeringly; “then you will learn to like me.” 3 On reaching the outside door Ada perceived that there were two horses standing in front of it, one being the Spaniard’s and the other one of Pierre’s, borrowed for the occasion, The Spaniard motioned to the girl to mount the one belonging to ‘rierre, and as she obeyed he quickly took a cee of turns with his lasso around the body of the girl, thus securing her to the steed. Then mounting his own, he seized the rein of the animal, and bidding adieu to Pierre, who, in his turv, shouted farewell to Ada, he put spurs to his horse, which started off at a brisk ee nd to Be oe pes did not even act as if she noticed her ve fixed straight ahead of her. two riders soon were upon the open rie, which in this part of the coun a distance of about three miles, when it was bounded by a thick piece of woods, ond which towered the summits of a range of lofty hills. Several times the Spaniard ke to Ada, who, however, would not respond to him either by look or word, but still kept her eyes turned straight ahead of her, as if unconscious of his presence, About this time Winnihah, in the chamber of the wounded Indian, was seated by his side, chanting to him, by his request, one of the songs which he loved. The man was much better than he had been, and hoped in a few days to be able to leave his couch, All the time he had been lying there ill he bad thought of little save the celebrated Red Claw, to effect whose capture he had come all the vin from the coun- try of his tribe, accompanied by the beautiful innihah. Poor Winnihah! She loved not this man, and yet, while a young girl, too young to know her own beart, she bad promised her dying mother that she would obey bim in all things and marry him when he wished it. Even as she sung, this melancholy thought forced itself upon pee mind, and made her voice falter to the end of the chant, When she ceased Omeeno, half raising him- self, fixed his keen eyes upon her face, ‘“Winnibah has changed!” he said: “‘she is not asshe was. There is a cloud between her and Omeeno.” The girl turned aside her face, but ke not. Then Omeeno, clutching her by the wrist, cried, fiercely: ‘“Ts the Osage Bird deceiving her lover? Has she found another?” At these words the girl trembled all over, while a vivid blush mantled upon her dusky cheeks, Then she turned her soft, black eyes, suffused with tears, upon the face of the pros- trate Indian. ‘‘Has not Winnihah told Omeeno that she could never love him? Can she help her feel- ings? The winds cannot change their course, nor the stars come falling down upon the earth, unless the Manitou will it. Soit is with Win- nibah!” ‘“*Winnibah has told Omeeno this; but there are other things he is afraid that she has not told him.” “There is nothing,” answered the girl, faintly. The Indian warrior eyed her steadily a few moments, then sunk Shek upon his pillow. “Tt is well, Winnihah will learn to love Omeeno, when she marries him and sees what a brave husband she shall get. Until then, she must not seek another lover.” Winnihah meekly bowed her head, but her eyes were vailed by their long lashes, as if she feared the eyes of the wounded man. He continued, after a moment's silence: ‘(Let Winnihah go forth and again seek to draw Red Claw into the ambush of our war- riors. Go and lure him into the country of our tribe, that he may be taken prisoner and tor- tured. Omeeno will soon be well, to come af- ter and dance to the white man’s yells at the death-pole!” The girl bowed assent, but her cheeks blanched deathly pale. ‘*Go!? continued Omeeno; “ there is no time to lose!” Winnihah, demas ris - without a word, was soon upon the trail of the igs al whom she found lying asleep in a small valley, about two hundred yards to the left of the house, She stood surveying him with a peculiar light in her soft, black eyes, with the rosy morning sunshine streaming down through the branches of the trees upon her black hair. All around her the birds sung upon the boughs of the trees, bright flowers waved at her feet, ping from the green and a little rivu- eth singing over shining pebbles right in front of her. It’was a beautiful morning, and the heart of Winnibah, susceptible to nature as that of a bird, beat in her bosom with a pleasant feeling! No wonder, then, that the task she was to per- form—that of luring the trapper into the hands of his enemies—was very distastful to her. The man had saved her life—had somehow won upon her heart by this no less than by his touching devotion, and she could not bear the pel of being the means of injuring a hair of his Brought up to cruelty simply as a sccesatige an wcodiig to be a ot ra- ther than condemned, when leagued witb cun- ning, the maiden was surprised at her own sen- sations the one-eyed 5 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. ) Et TT ST TT SE extended | famed Red Claw, whose powerful arm had laid low many of the best of her tribe. So there she stood, surveying the stalwart sleeper with feelings which, the longer she thought, became of a conflicting nature, Finally she ery ape her lips, and while her eyes flashed and ber cheeks became ashy-pale, muttered to herself: “Yes, Winnihah must do it. She promised her dying mother that she would obey Omeeno, and she must !” Even as she spoke, however, the trapper waked, and as he sprung to his feet and a flood of joy like sunshine crossed his face at behold- ing ber, her spirit rebelled against doing him the meditated injury. ‘* Hello, purty one!” cried Guy, ’ springing for- ward and extending his han “T war jist dreamin’ of yer, an’ hyar I open my one eye to see ae standin’ right here Retire me— thar’s you The girl, blushing deeply, motioned him back, and then starting forward, glided over the prairie as lightly and swiftly as a spirit. On she went, the trapper following her, until she finally paused after proceeding about five miles, in the | post alluded to, sitting down to of her meal. : The trapper would have placed himself by her side if she had not motioned bim back, when, happy to obey her slightest wish, he paused, watched her, while seated upon the grassy slope, she proceeded to partake of the contents of the haversack hanging at ber side. While this scene was taking place, Ada and her companion were ten miles beyond, riding along a narrow path of hard ground upon a long, winding elevation of land, about three feet in hight, crossing an extensive marsh, This marsh, right in the heart of the forest, was devoid of shrub or stump, and had the a - ance of having once been a lake which had subsequently dried up. Far beyond it, the land was seen, com tively clear of woodland, rising in greén as it stretched away toward the hills. ‘When we get yonder,” said the Spaniard inting toward the ridges, ‘‘ we will stop and ave something to eat.” “T want nothing,” replied Ada, in a voice choked by mingled grief and indignation, which had increased the further she went from the house which hed once been her home. “You must eat!” cried the Spaniard, ‘or you will grow thin.” His fiery eyes blazed, as he glanced at Ada from head to foot, with an expression that dis- gusted her, Meanwhile they were now riding, owing to the narrowness of the path, one before the other, the Spaniard leading, and still holding on to the rein of Ada’s horse, erates Thus proceeding, they had nearly gained the ridgy land, commencing at the end of the path when the twang of a bow-string was heard, and the next moment an arrow struck the horse is the Spaniard, causing the animal to rear a pitch so violently that Pedro wus obliged to let of Ada’s rein, in order to prevent the beast rom plunging into the a Finding herself free for the moment, Ada, without stopping to ascertain whence the arrow had come, brought ber steed back upon his baunches, and compelled the anima! to perform a ei thus turning him in the narrow t The next moment her familiar voice greeted the ear of the good steed, which at once dashed away, directly on the backward course, Behind her in pursuit, yet owing to the wound | his courser had received, obliged to proceed — slower than the girl, came the Spaniard, and be- hind him came several savages of the Crow tribe, who had just sprung up from one of the elevations of land, set up a dismal whoop, and followed, running with a speed nearly equal to that of the horses : The sovages, three in number, were tall, stal- wart fellows, nimble as deer, andstrong as buf- faloes; but it was soon evident that they could not overtake the horses at their present. rate of speed, - Equally useless seemed Pedro’s pursuit of Ada, who, an excellent rider, and mounted upon superb steed, was stretching away with the of the wind. Seen from a distance proceeding along that narrow path, the fair rider, with her long hair streaming back upon the wind, and ber mantle wing, seemed rather to skim through the air than to touch the ground. Turning to the left, when she bad crossed the swam e girl soon was lost to the view of Pedro, who, in a voice of rage urged his lamed steed upon its course,
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= CHAPTER IX, D. GAPTURED. AvDA continued on for about two hours, when she pulled rein in a deep valiey, partially scxeen- ed by the thick shrubbei\ upon its sides, to af- ford her weary steed the rest it needed. She, too, almost worn out from maintaining she position, in which sho was lashed to the , needed rest; but as the cord biuding her to the horse was fastened underneath the crea- tare, she could not release herself. Wishing that some friendly trapper would come along and with bis knife sever her bonds, she sat watching the green shrubbery softly waving upon the bank of the valley, the purple flowers growing upon some of the bushes, nod- ding like miniature soldier caps. bile she sat thus. gazing pensively toward the brushwood, she suddenly thought she could see a pair of eyes peering at her from the shrub- however, they vanished. when she con- ed she might have been mistaken by the peculiar appearance of the leaves on the bushes or bye couple of drops of dew, the position o which had afterward been changed. Soon, how- ever, she again saw the face of the apparition, and jooking keenly she felt assured that she was not this time mistaken. : No, there they were—a of human eyes! Ada uttered a low cry of mingled terror and surprise, when from the bushes the hideous face of an Indian was thrust forth, painted for the war-patb, and was followed by the whole of his peek gz iding, snake-like, from the thick mass eaves. “Ugh!” he grunted, springing forward witha iden boot aod clutching the horse’s rein, “Ugh! Pale face girl ride very fast! Not es- cape Anee-o-ki, chief of the Crows!” As he spoke, he uttered a noise like the croak of a raven, when from the bushes emerged two other savages. Although used to the sight of red-men, yet Ada screamed at the hideous as- ab ss by one of these men, who wore,» | sory sti g straight up from the top his head. : “Ugh! stop! no noise! or the white bird’s neck quick me cut off!” exclaimed Anee-o-ki, loosen ng his tomahawk. At this threat, Ada, remained silent, while | the Indian who held her rein continued to lead | her horse forward. i Tho savages kept on, not exchanging a word either among themselves or with the prisoner, @miii they had traveled about five miles in a g@ratherly direction, when they came upon the of their tribe, situated close to - fork of the te river, which here went tumbling and roaring along for about half a mile, when a steep descent of rocks being encountered meas- wring at least thirty feet, the water here formed f , descending upon jagged rocks below With the noise of thunder. As she party entered the camp a number of girls nd men came forth to take a look at the wivo Most of the females were very bome- ly, ut there were a few good-looking ones agnong them, which rule did not apply to the men, all of whom were the most hideous, un- couth objects that Ada had ever seen. They oerc dressed in divers costumes, some wearing uftalo-robes, some bear-skins, some blankets, “while x few had no robes at all excepting pieces “< eloth sewed together, and attached to the shoulders, something in the form of an ancient the savage assemblage Ada was con- | ducted to a tent in the center of the encamp- @ment, and a guard placed over her, while the horse was taken possession of by the chief, Anee-o-ki. There was in the tent a small opening, through ~ which the prisoner could see vn 5 bite enter- e ing the encampment. For aw those who eame straggling in, one after the other, were 7 Indians of the Crow tribe, but at length a party appeared, having between them no less a per- sonage than Winnihah. Pe She had no sooner entered than some of the braves immediately recognized her as the same person they had been in pursuit of on the pre- vious day, and who had been saved by Red Ww. There was great exultation in the camp as this news was circulated; the squaws and girls crowded round the beautiful captive, seemin anxious to tear her eyes out in their rage a charms so much exceeding theirown. In fact, the men had great di ty in preventing the women from injuring the girl, and when rhe her prison—the same tent in placed over her prevent her es- was conducted to which Ada was confined—the guard, not s) much 6 strong Reach | held a crow cape, which might have been done by a less number, as to keep the squaws away from her. To explain how Winnihah came to be cap- tured, it is necessary to state that after she had finished her meal], the Indian girl, changing her mind, in aki of the vow she had made to her dying mother, determined not to obey Omeeno, by luring Red Claw to his destiuction. Rising, she at once informed the trapper that she was bound to the country of her tribe, and that if he followed her be would certainly be taken prisoner, “Never mind,” Guy had answered, “I care not if I am taken, so that you let me follow you, The knowledge that you kin never be mine | makes me keerless of life—thar’s me !” Winnibah, however, answered that she did not want the trapper to follow her, she would | rather he would not, and, almost heart-broken, the man turned upon his heel and slowly re- traced his way, now and then glancing back toward the beautiful vision. ‘It are no use.” muttered Red Claw, ‘‘ef I had two eyes, thar’d be hope of my producin’ an effect upon ‘that creatur’, but I hev only one—thar’s it!” Meanwhile Winnibah, with sad, downcast eyes and slow gait, kept on toward the west, her r-- verie making her less cautious than was her custom. It happened, therefore, that she had not procrees. many miles, when, from bebind a fallen tree, lying in her path, up rose half a dozen Crows and made her their yin marl lead- ing her to their camp as described. At sight of Winnihah, a i of recognition would have escaped Ada, but for a significant look from the other, plainly enjoining silence. In fact, the beautiful captive thought it best that the Crows should not know of the acquain- tance between the two, as their ignorance, by permitting the prisoners to remain together, might result in some plan concocted for their escape. The two, therefore, remained close to each other without exchangipg a word, resolved to wait until darkness should better permit their doing so without observation. When night came, however, the guard seemed to redouble their vigilance, so that the girls did not have the Prt boped for. Both slept a little toward morning, not wak- ing until the rude hand of one of the guard shook each upon the shoulder, They then be- of squaws all gesticulating and conversing together in an excited manner. ‘* Come,” said the man, who had waked them, “‘ come—chief want to see!” As Se were leaving the tent the chief ap- at: Been hold council!” he said, addressing Winnihah in broken English, “been hold coun- cil, and the maiden must die!” ““Winnihah is always ready,” answered the irl,“ she is one of the tribe who never fear to ie! “ Anee-o-ki would have spared the Osage, but the squaws and maidens of his tribe wish that she may die, and the prophet Woo-kee-mo thinks it best. The girl answered not a word, but directed a contemptuous glance toward the chattering women, and bowed. ‘* The white bird must die too,” continued the chief, glancing at the other prisoner. Ada turned pale, but, compressing her lips, endeavored to hear the decree with calmness. “Strike!” exclaimed Winnihah, “strike and kill quick!” pointing at ber own beautiful head. “It is not willed that she be killed with the | tomahawk,” answered the chief. “She sball know soon how she shall die!” So saying, be motioned tc the guard to con- duct the girls back to the tent, after whieh he walked to the bank of the rusbing stream, alongside of which an old canoe had just been drawn up. Near this stood a couple of Indians, provided with thongs of deer-bide, gezing with meaning glances toward the spot where the water hidsot the cataract by rushing down over the rocks. “Ts the canoe ready?!” “Yes,” was the reply. Winnibah, a octet understood the Crow tongue, could easily hear the question and re- sponse, Instantly there flashed upon her mind a sus- ae eee was soon ter a an whole Crow party, men, boys, squaws and all belonging to the camp, soon came forth and crowded the bank of the stream. The cries and gesticulations of the women soon were put a ston to by the chief, after which he ordered several of the Indians to lead forth the two prisoners. They were conducted to the aw, the One-Byed Trapper. bank, made to enter the canon there 5 then hurled down and i:acueu mu “” side in the light vessel by means of the deer-thongs wound round them and secured under the Neither Ada nor Winnihah could longer doubt the mode of death chosen. They were to be set adrift in the canoe, which, carried along by the torrent, would soon dash them down the rapids, to descend which in this manner must certainly result in their destruction! Pale, yet firm, the white girl, while tremb- ling with horror et the fate in store for her, en- deavored to nerve herself to meet her doom without any outward exhibition of her fears, while Winnihab, calm, impussible as a statue, showed not the slightest sign of agitation be- yond a peculiar sparkling of the large, dark eyes. Booti the canoe was loosened from the bank and the frail vessel whirled with lightnin rapidity toward the cataract distant about half a mile, From the dusky spectators of this scene, as the canoe age on, there broke forth a cry that of itself might have appalled the heart of a gentle girl like Ada Leman! : ‘God help us!” she murmured, ‘‘ we are lost, ost!” “Yes, lost!” gritted Winnihah, through her white teeth. ‘* Good-by, tribe! good-by all!” CHAPTER X, THE CANOE, Wen Chick; after bis encounter with the Spaniard, crawled out of the water, he sat down, and from the depths of bis heart vowed revenge upon the man who had dealt thus harsh- ly with him. ie. and walking along the bank, beneath the gathering shadows of night, he was about crossing the stream when, suddenly, he thought he bebeld a number of figures stealing along the opposite bank. Crouching in the shrubbery, he waited until they were opposite to him, when he discovered tbat, as he had suspected, they were a pa of Indians—the Crows, whose tracks had met his sight before he ascended the mountains, This party the youth surveyed as well as the dark- ness would permit, the number halting directly opposite to him and seeming to hold a whispered consultation. Red Claw was not among them, a circum- stance which reassured Chick, who knew that if his master bad been captured his great reputa- tion would insure his being carried along by the Indians to their camp to suffer torture and death at the stake, Not daring to move lest he should be discov- ered, the boy remained concealed, endeavoring to catch what was said: but the party spoke too low for him to bear them. Once, in moving, he made a rustling which excited the suspicions of several of the savages. Soon, however, seeming to conclude that the noise had been caused by the wind, they sat down and continued their conversation. Finally the youth noticed that they threw — themselves flat'down on their bellies, remaining, with the exception of a whisper now and then, as still as death. : All night long they remained in this position, crouched in the thickest of the shrubbery w save from the opposite bank, they could have been seen by any passer-by, not within five yards of them, Toward daylight, Chick was enabled to ceive that the house of Pierre was the object of their attention. | What did they mean to dof to attack | and ei the building, and massacre its inbab- itants? The boy’s mind was full of anxiety on Ada’s account; he must contrive to get to the build- ing, and, if possible, warn its inmates of their danger. Cautiously he drew himself along, not making the slightest noise, intending to move unob- served far up the stream, and then crossing, crouch in the long grass, draw bimself to a strip of woodland not far off, and thence make a run tothe house, which he could reach before the Crows, who must discover him the moment he Jeft the covert. As he had hoped to do, he managed to reach the woodland unseen by the Indians, whose eyes were turned toward the building. He was about to start on the run toward the house, when he beheld a sight which riveted bim to the spot with feelings of mingled ment and indignation, The spectacle was noth- ing less than that of Ada and the Gpentard, #53 along in the manner which been de seritied in a previous chapter. 12 eee
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i The boy was,.in fact, so angry at seeing the girl tied to the horse upon which she sat that he instinctively cocked his rifle aud pointed it to- ward the Spaniard. The thought flashed upon bim that the moment they beard the report the Crows would know of his vicinity and cap- ture him, thus rendering him powerless to assist the girl ; ae All thoughts of Pierre’s building now passed away before the all-ongrossing idea of Ada’s unfortunate situation. Crouching low in the long grass, he crept along with the stealth and swiftness of a snake, endeavoring to keep tbe Spaniard and his com- panion in sight, and determined, if he could get near enough to make sure of his aim and of the Indians not hearing the report of his piece to, shoot the man who was thus forcibly carrying away his beloved Ada, On he went; but the Spaniard soon quicken- ing his horse’s pace, the boy was gradually left further and further bebind. ‘Vainly he endeavored to keep the riders in sight; they were soon hid from his vision by distance and intervening trees, when, feeling perfectly miserable, the youth sat down, and pressing bis cheek against the barrel of bis piece, gave loose to the most harassing thoughts regarding the girl. 7 Of. Finally he rose, and with the determination to either discover and rescue Ada or perish in the aitempt, he kept on, following the tracks of the horses’ feet. These led bim deep into the forest, and he had nearly come in sight of the path leading across the marsh, when he heard the sound of horses’ hoofs advancing rapidly, and glancing through the trees ahead, beheld Ada flying along on her horse with the speed of a whirlwind, This was soon after the moment when, fa- vored by the arrow, the girl contrived to es- eape from her capter. mpetuous Cuick waited not to see whether the latter followed her or not, but ran after her shouting, when, careless of his steps, down he went, his head striking against the trunk of a fallen tree with a violence which for a while quite stunned him. 1 He regained his feet jast in time to see the Spaniard upon his wounded steed go shooting past at the distance of several hundred yards. Without hesitation he raised his rifle, took good aim, and fired. On went the Spaniard, boweyer, uninjured. Much disappointed, Chick was reloading, pre- aratory to following up the horse-trail, when be caught a glimpse through the shrubbery far away upon bis left, of the three Indians, who had been concealed behind the ridge, and had run in pursuit of the escaping riders. Hiding until they had passed and were out of sight, Chick, now more anxious than ever re- garding Ada, continued on. He had passed the valley in which the girl had been captured, and come in sight of the eamp of the Crows, when be felt a heavy hand upon his shoulder! ' He turned, instinctively cocking his piece, ul 6 ha he beheld aw “Hello!” rather whispered than spoke the one-eyed trapper. ‘‘l’m moughty glad to see you ag’in, and think this are sart’inly a lucky meetin’—thar’s it !” “Yes,” answered Chick; and then, in a few words, he described his adventures since their arting. Red Claw likewise gave an account ef is. ‘“* We're rayther close to the red varmints!” whispered Guy, “and it are best to be cautious. You and me are on an errand of the same na- tur’. Il are arter none other than pretty Win- nibah, which has been captured by the Crows— thar’s them {” He then went on to state that, shortly after Winnihah bad left bim, he had continued on, hoping that in time he might forget ber. The further he advanced, however, widening the distance between them, the weaker became his resolution. Finally be had turned and retraced bis way, resolved to still follow the beautiful Indian at all hazards. He bad not proceeded far into the woods on his new course when he came upon other tracks mingled with those of Winnihab, which excited bis roe of the girl’s having been captured and Jed away! ‘ Determined to save the Indian or perish, be int bad therefore followed up tbe trails to this which brought him in sight of the Crow camp, visible through openings in the shrubbery at a di-tance of several hundred yards, “Ther must fe somethin? done at once,” whispered the trapper. ‘Them gals will sar Red Claw, the tinly be mastercreed, and though thar’s a sar- Vinty of both going to heaven, still it’s no rea- son why we shouldn’t save ’em ef we kin—thar’s us! “What do?” inquired Chick. ‘* Can’t go right into Crow camp!’ knives. ‘ Now then, lad, look sharp and away” we go—thar’s us!” screamed Guy, as, seizing” Winnihah in one arm, hesprung from the canoe wean to the shore near which it had so closely rifted. ° Chick imitated bis example with Ada; when “T hey an idee,” whispered the trapper, | both the swimmers, striking out twice, gained pointing toward the stream seen gleaming through the trees to the left of the camp. ** Yer kin see a canoe thar, if yer look sharp?’ ‘* Yes, me see canoe,” “Well, we must git into that are, when night comes, and see ef we can’t contrive to git alongside the camp, find the gals and save thar lives by toting ’em off into the canoe.” Chick shook his head. He was afraid the plan would not succeed; still he was willing to try it. Accordingly the two men remained under cover until dusk, when they gradually com- menced drawing themselves along toward the canoe, Soon they were alongside of it, and both entering it, discovered that it contained a heap of old matting, evidently of no use, and which perbaps would soon be thrown away by the Indians. : Seizing paddles, the two were about dipping them in the water, when Red Claw suddenly clutcbed his companion’s arm. “ Hist! Injuns!—ther's them |” In fact, a party of Indians, not five rods wis were approaching the canoe! “Down, Chick, down with us both!” whispered Red Claw. Sinking down, and lying side by side, they drew the matting over them in such a way that they were completely screened. A few minutes after, the Indians, reaching the bank, stood as if holding a consultation, ‘¢What are the varmints saying?’ whispered the trapper, with his mouth close to the ear of the other. ‘*‘ You kin understand thar lingo.” **Can’t hear what say yet,” answered Chick. pecs f he raised his head, when he caught the words of one of the speakers. “= They are saying better throw matting over- board /” he whispered to the trapper. ** Hey yer rifle ready then!” whispered Guy. “All ready!” gritted Chick, through his teeth, weer CHAPTER XI. THE GIRLS’ PERIM. WHIRLED on by the roaring current, the canoe coatainivg the two girls drew nearer and nearer every moment to the fatal brink, One of the eddies of the current had, mean- while, drawn it within about two yards of the left bank, so that the occupants of the frail -vessel, both of whom could swim, might easily have saved themselves by making a dash forthe shore, had they not been bound to the thwarts, or cross-pieces, of the little vessel. On the bank, astern of them, stood the savage spectators, all gesticulating and uttering cries of savage exultation at the fate in store for the two captives. ‘‘ Dogs!” said Winnihah through her teeth; ‘the Crows are all mean... They triumph over women ; they run away from men /” Ada made no response, She was lashed to the cross-piece in such a manner that she had a full view of the dreadful cataract, now less than a quarter of a mile abead. She could see the foaming waters as they went tumbling and roaring over the rocks, and the sheeted spray as it was thrown bigh like flakes of snow from the stream below where the waters struck. One last, farewell glance she would give at the beautiful green trees, the blue sky over- head, and the bright birds hopping about among the twigs; one last glance, and then close her eyes in preparation for ber fate! On went the canoe, and soon the savage shouts behind grew louder, as the frail vessel approached within forty yards of the perilous brink. Ada had closed her eyes; a brief prayer, silent but heartfelf, rose from ber bosum; she felt the canoe whirled forward still faster. She opened her eyes, and then uttered a cry of horror as she saw the ghastly white waters staring her in the face scarcely twenty fathoms distant. ‘ “ Ah, God help us!” she murmured faintly, “Er we Don’t I WILL-—THAR'S ME!” cried a voice of thunder, seeming tv proceed fiom right under her, At the same moment, up from the matting, which had hitherto co cealed them, rose the two figures of Chick and Red Claw! “ Steady, gals, steady! and we’ll hev yer safs in a jiffy!” cried Guy, as he and the boy severed in an instant the bonds of the women with their So the bank, and clutching the soft earth, drew themselves thereon with their lovely burdens, Behind them, as they did so, came the crack of rifles, followed by a savage yell, and several bullets whizzed over the heads of the party. “Now, then, ef we look sharp,” exclaimed Guy, ‘“‘wekin soon make ourselves skeerce. It are indeed sweet to me to bev this ’ere lovely burden in my arms, even though my one eye hev deprived me of all my beyooty—thar’s it!” The four moved rapidly forward in the un- derbrush, keeping close to the bank of the stream, where the undergrowth was the densest. Both Winnihah and Ada now disengaged. themselves from the arms of those who held them. “Keep up good heart,” exclaimed- Chick. “Save in time.” “ sand The girl gave bim a grateful glance, and a. smile that made him thrill all over. ‘‘The question ar’, now, what that infarnal Spaniard war a-goin’ to do with you, carryin’ you off tied to a hoss, as Chick hyar hey de- scribed.” In a few words, Ada explained all as they hurried on, exciting the indignation of ber listeners. Then they in their turn, e how they came in the canoe. “At one time,” said Red Claw, ‘‘ we thort. the Indians war a-goin to throw the old stuff in the canoe overboard, which would hev sartinly” resulted in our bein’ seen. Lackily, however they arterwards changed their minds, and led the canoe to the camp as it war!” Speeding on, the party soon reached an ele- vation on the bank of the stream, which afford- ed them a good view of the camp. There it was, plainly revealed, many of its occupants congregated at the side of the stream, watching the fugitives. There were also a number of natives in a canoe, making for the opposite bank to pursue: the runaways. “Thar sartainly ar’ no time to lose,” re- marked Red Claw. ‘ We ar’ in a state of un- comfortable maximity to them pesky red-skins. —thar’s we!” “*T hope we will not be overtaken. I would pray that I might be killed at once if I were!” said Ada, as the idea of again falling into the oo of the Spaniard Pedro recurred to her mind, ; **I don’t blame yer. The ideaof makin’ a slave of an American are like tryin’ to make: good sarsages of dorg’s meat.” ‘Indian never be slave neither!” cried Win-. nihah, ber eyes flashing. ‘Fur from it! I should like to see the rascal that would meke a slave of you, purty one! It are upposserble, although the hearts of t’others night b made slaves of yer attractions—thar’s: em The party continued their way, and had soon. e pe a far eu geen uddenly ti came a path, diverging trrGo0d ben a be Indian gra extending: “Good by!” said t her hand to Red Claw. **What! ‘Yer ain’t a-goin’?” The manly voice trembled, and there was sad- ness in the one eye, ’ “Yes, better go. Winnihah can never be anything to the white man,” Her soft, dark eyes beamed upon bim, as she spoke, with a kind but firm expression. ‘*No—no! Why, thunderation! yer must not think of goin’ yet?” “ Winnihah better go.” : Now she cast down her eyes, and her voice. trembled. “Yer better go along with us, jist a little ways further; that are the best plan; come,” “No; Winvihah—” She paused, for at that moment the sound of’ horses’ feet was heard coming down the path, The whole party crouched down with the ex- ception of Red Claw, who at once ran along the: path in a crouching position to ascertain the character of the new-comers. Having reached a thick clump of sbrubbery near a turn in the patb, he there conccaled himself, and glanc down the narrow way, beheld, ata distance of several hundreds of yards, a couple of horse~ men, whom he at once as Pierre Le man and the Spaniard Pedro. Bebind them, on foot, came a dozen or mere savages of the tribe,. which the two had evidently brought with theny
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12 to answer the purposes of a body-guard and to help them find Ada, who, it was-evident, was the object which had drawn them in this direc- tion. Such, in fact, was the case; the Spaniard, on losing Ada, having finally ridden back to ee and informed him of what had taken ace. : By a singular contradiction of character, abe Se while cruel enough to sell the girl for oney, felt, besides the wish to obtain her and re tore ber to the Spaniard, much real anxiety with regard to her falling into the bands of the savages, It happened that when Pedro came back to the house he found there a party of warlike Ki , with whom Pierre was negotiating ing some stolen horses. It was probably this party that saved his house from being at- tacked and burned by the Crows, who had re- mained watching the building long after Win- nibah and Ada had left it. When Pedro told what bad happened, the horse-thief made an agreement with the Kicka- poos to accompany him, and with this addition at once s in search of Ada. Following up the trail as far as the valley, the party had there lost it, the Crows having taken care to conceal it after the prisoners had been brought into the camp. Finally they (the hunters) had crossed the stream and kept along at right angles with it, in a northeast direction. Finding no trace in this direction, they on the following morning retraced their way toward the stream along the path from which Red Claw, as shown, discovered them. The Mas. at once divining their errand, hurried back, vainly attempting to hide his joy as he now informed Winnibah that she would have to either follow the course he intended to take or fallinto the hands of the Kickapoos, who, without doubt, being enemies to her tribe, ‘would not be prevailed upon, even by Pierre, to release her, A close observer would not have seen much sorrow in the eyes of beautiful Winnihah at the tra ’s proposition. Tee party hurried on along the bank, and in a short time came to a spot where the stream was sballow enough to cross. **Now, then, ef we could only cross!” said Red Claw, ‘‘ we mought put them what follers us ontirely on the wrong scent—thar’s tt /” “Why not cross? | am not afraid!” re- marked Ada, glancing toward Chick, who re- turned the look with one of tender admiration, “ Yer not afraid Iknow, but ef we try it we moucht be seen by the Injuns up-stream. 18a perhaps Injuns quick see,” remarked He and his master held a moment’s consulta- tion, after which it was decided that Chick should go into the stream and take a look un- ‘seen, if that were — This the boy did. Screening himself behind a clump of bushes growing from the bank of the stream, he glanced up along the surface, to ‘see, as he feared would be the case, a ah of ew prone nengay watch from a rock in the just above the falls, He returned with this information, when Red Claw concluded to move further down before to pass over. ae hy do you want to cross at all?” inquired a. : The sound of horses’ feet proceeding along the ‘bank might have partly served as an answer to this m. It was the trapper’s purpose, which he now frankly stated, to cross in order to puzzle and probably turn aside those who ywere [following them. Seeing a sudden halt in- ‘dicated by the tracks of their feet, and then those same tracks leading straight into the water, they would naturally conclude that Ada had parted from her companions, crossed over on the other side, and kept on, it being the intention of Guy to have Ada proceed a short distance after crossing and then walk back in her tracks to the stream, where the rest of the party would wait for her. All would then wade down-stream some distance, after which they would return to land on the same side as that which they had quitted. This design was carried into effect the moment ‘the fugitives reached a point secure from the «bservation of the Indians on the rock. After returning to the shore, Red Claw re- «marked that he — his plan would succeed admirably. Mean he thought they had better keep moving until night, and then halt for rest, preparatory to continuing their jour- ney toward the nearest settlement, twenty aniles distant. ~ thar,” said the trapper, ‘‘ we kin hev a water _ Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trap good time, and you two women refresh yer- selves at the first-class hotel kept by Simon Wigston, thar’s him !” This ‘* first-class hotel” of which Red Claw ke, was little more than a log-house larger than any of the buildings around it, in which Simon Wigston, an old settler, sold “ fire-water,” tobacco, skins, and such provisions as roasted ‘‘ buffer ” meat, fish, herrings, deer’s meat, and fresh bread. The apartments usually furnished to those de- siring a night’s lodging were partitioned off in a convenient manner with calico curtains, lum- ber piled up almost to the ceiling. and other contrivances, from what was termed the tavern. ‘*T shall be glad to get to some place where the laws will protect an American girl from being sold asa slave!” “Tt are outrageous,” said Guy; ‘“enny per- son kin see that.” ‘* Glad get to settlement, too,” said Winnihah, “then be close to my tribe, which me soon reach!” ‘*So you are determined to leave us?” ‘Yes, better go,” answered Winnihah. Her face and voice were calm, but there was a peculiar softening of the black eyes. Guy heaved a deep sigh, and the party con- tinued rapidly on their way, until almost even- ing, when the trapper, who knew the country well, turned into a side path, which finally led the fugitives to a hollow on the left side of the stream. Here Guy paused. ; “Now, then,” said he, ‘‘I hev a pro make, Jist you all come hyar, an the edge of this ho'low!” Wondering as to hisintention, his companions obeved, ‘Now, then, kin yer see anything pekooliar about this place?” All except Chick, who seemed to know his master’s purpose, answered in the negative. The hollow seemed like ail places of its descrip- tion, being about six feet in length, as many broad, and containing a low growth of shrub- ry. ‘“*Thar’s as it should be; and now I hev to tell yer that thar are something pekooliar about the place—thar’s it!” So saying, the trapper, advancing into the hollow, pushed aside by main strength a large stone, disclosing an opening in an underground rock, leading downward. tion to stand on CHAPTER XI. THE CAVE, “Come and take a look!’ continued Guy, to those watching him. Ada and Winnihah, with woman’s natural curi- osity, advanced first, and peered into the opening. This led, as mentioned, in a slanting direction, and was just large enough to admit any person crawling on hands and knees. ‘* What is there underneath?” inquired Ada. “A kind of a rough chamber or hollow, big enough to hold ten people. The fact are jist this, I war once tra ag in this locality, when I came upon the hole, which I examined, to my staterfaction dis- coverin'’ the chamber, which I thort would be a good place for me to hide my skins in, especially as thar are rocky shelfs in it, ef I wanted to go further on, Tharfore, I jist s’arched until I found this stone, which I put over the place, so that no person but myself could find it!" ‘Good place to hide!” exclaimed Winnihah. “Yes, it are. But, before enterin’, we must hide our tracks by coverin’ em with leaves, then git into the water and wade that way to the opening, which, you kin see, are within half a foot of the bank's e “Et should think the water would be apt to get into the hollow,”’ remarked Ada, “Sometimes it do,” answered Guy, “‘ but not often; only when thar’s an unusual risin’ of the stream, which ain’t apt to happen except in a storm—‘¢har’s Feta it storms, then, we must go right out!” said “Sartin; it won’t storm before mornin’, at enny rate!” he added, glancing up toward the sky. “So come, let's git in, as thar are no time to lose.” Accordingly, the whole party, after having con- cealed their by means of leaves arranged with artful carelessness, prepared to enter the hol- low, Guy and Chick preventing Ada and Winnihah from wetting their feet by carrying the two girls in their arms. Guy went first, and the rest soon after followed. In the royal chamber in which they now found themselves, was a floor of fully eight feet square. The walls were of hard rock, down whose sides trick here and there, water which sunk into the soft sand-holes, which seemed to abound along the sides of this underground chamber. as soon ‘as all were in the piece, Guy, advancing to the entrance with Chick, blocked it up with the boy’s assistance, using for this purpose the stone : ‘mentioned. “Hyar we are, safe and sound,” said Guy, when per. From his haversack he now drew forth some bear's meat and bread, which he distributed to his com ons. Ada could not help feeling somewhat amused at the trapper’s awkward attempts to give out the food in the darkness, When the meal was finished, Guy, taking off the bear-skin ro read it upon the ground. “Now, gals, I hev prepared a couch, which I hope under the sarcumstances may prove saterfactory. You'd better lay down and go to sleep.” The trapper’s natural blunt but watetn cant frank- ness made amends for all he said, so that, after de- murring a little at depriving him of his bear-skin, Ada was content to lie down and go to sleep, es- pecially as the darkness would hide her from those present, Winnahah, who knew nothing of such fine mod- esty, threw herself down with the readiness of an Indian girl, and soon sunk into a refreshing slumber. Worn out with their late exertions, the two slept until morning, when, opening their eyes, they were surprised to see a stream of light falling into the rocky chamber. Leaning against the wall opposite to them stood Guy, his one eye fixed upon Winnibah with an ex- oression of -absorbing tenderness. The girl lushed as she sprung to her feet simultaneously with Ada “Glad yer slept so well,’’ remarked the tra co “It'll do yer a powerful sight of good—thar’s it “Where is Chicky” inquirer Ada, untbinkingly speaking with great anxiety. i “ He are all right, miss,” was the reply; “jist gone to re onnooter.” ‘** You do not think the Indians are near us?" “T don’t know; but hyar comes Chick now, to give an account of himself.” In fact, Chick now was seen crawling thro the entrance of the cave, His Indian face sho no excitement; still, Winnihah, skilled in reading the faces of red-men, could perceive that he had made sume discovery. What this was, however, she could not determine until he had whispered to the trapper, who then said; “Gals, don’t be skeered, but thar’s Injuns wi- in’ round. In fact, they seem to suspect that we are somewhar in this pecan hev cut us off on both sides of the stream. ar’s only one way do: to stay whar we are, and let them wait. They'll leave arter a while.”’ “Which Indians are they?’ queried Ada, anx- iously; “the Crows or the others?” ps Both,” answered Chick. “Don't know—think Pierre Leman make some peace agreement with the two. Seem good friends enough now.” ‘Peace are a good thing in its place,” said Guy, “but under present sarcumstances, it are bad for Motioning to Chick, the roceeded to the op otio to two - ing, which they at once up, after which Guy a distributed the contents of his haversack. en the meal was finished, he signified his inten- tion to go soon and again ‘‘ reconnooter.” ‘Hark! what is that?” ree aee: as a rushing sound was heard outside of the cave. “A storm,’’ answered Chick; “it was gathering when me went out.” “Then the cave will be flooded.” ‘* We kin leave before that. You kin make up yer mind on that p’int,”’ said Red Claw. An hour passed, when the trapper, removing the stone cautiously, peered out. vering no sign of afoe lurking near, he pushed aside the stone, and emerging from the hollow, hurried stealthily along on hands and knees, He had not proceeded more than fifty yards, when he three Indians standing a tew yards off, under a tree. This sight was enough; it would not yet do to leave pT oammeam Jeut sc ot, way wit e c Meanwhile the wind was blowing with great fury, bending the trees almost double, and sending waves of dark clouds careering through the sky in ra fragments. The trapper, when he reached the en- trance of the cavern, glanced anxiously toward the stream, whose waters now were bubbling and boil- ing as they dashed rearing from their eourse. did not like the looks of the water, which was in many places beating tumultuously up against the banks. ust as he drew his head into the entrance, and was about closing the opening, down came the rain rush- ing with the roar of thunder, and beating tHe earth with the din of a hundred huge base drums. “The stream will swell to a torrent,” said Ada, “had we not better now leave our retreat?” ‘Not yet,” answered Red Claw. “It *ud be risky bizness seein’ as we mought be caught and jose our ha’r by the Injuns—thar’s them! “What's the difference whether we are scalped oy drowned?” inquired Ada, half smiling. “A pesky sight, miss. Drownin’ are an and romantic bizness, sometimes adopted by them as hev been luy-stricken; wharas you never heerd of any feller scalpin’ himself ont of hnyv—eh, Winnihah?” “No, never! Drown, hang, go crazy—no scalp!" answered the girl, gravely. Meanwhile the roaring of the storm and beating of the waters grew louder. Guy and Chick exchanged uneasy glances. ‘* Hark! what is that?’ queried Ada, when another hour The noise referred to was a roaring like the smothered voice of a lion. Guy and Chick exchanged glances; then the for- mer, advancing to the entrance, pushed aside the stone and peered forth. At first he could see nothing,
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but, by removing the stone a little more, he beheld the a hk of the stream, now fairly cree 24 a torrent, rushing with overpowering velocity. Soon oye must overtiow the banks, with which they were “ona level; it was therefore necessary to leave the cave atonce. Stating this, Guy returned, and the whole ty were moving toward the en- th the din of thunder, the expected catastrophe took place, Pouring over the bank, part of which it had washed away, the water came rushing into the hollow with te din, and with a force and impetuosity which prevented those in the cave from making their way ou t. “We are sartinly in a precarious situation,” re- marked Guy; “thar's only one thing for us to do now, which are to scale the side of the cave, and get up as far towards the top as we kin!” yh But the water will soon get up to us /” exclaimed A, “IT don't think so; I war once caught hyar in just ® scrape, when I saved myself by climbin’ up close to the roof. Ef I could do so then, I don’t see poopy dy to prevent our doin' the same now—thar’s we “Water may come higher this time,’’ remarked wen ought; th in i ht not. Thar ki “Tt m ; then again it mo no n be no harm in tryin’, at any rate! Accordingly, retracing their way to the roc chamber, Guy and Chick proceeded to assist Winni- _— the wt of the ha Ng the rojecting shelf w the trapper ormer i been accustomed to lay his skins. Here the two girls could ver themselves, the shelf being almost.a foot in width. There was no time to lose, as the water, now advancing with great rapid- ity, was up to the knees of the two men. Soon they were ae oe the girls, Chick next to Ada and Guy next to Winnihah, and the rifles safely stowed in the crevices above, to preserve them for instant use. The former was much agitated by her perilous situation, but the other preserved all the natural stoicism of the Indian. Meanwhile, roaring, np Ary hissing, the water continued pouring into 6 cave, rising every moment. “Keep up brave heart!" whispered Chick to Ada; “ the water, meres pe bay: not reach us,” “T don't wl how fast, how steadily, it continues to rise ’'—pointing toward the foam upon yo ere sill wy high Diem bleeen Fhnaligy ts p—still up er an er. y; was almost on a level with the shelf! ‘It will soon begin to go down now,” exclaimed Guy. He was mistaken; the water steadily continued ene’ and soon the party felt it wetting their lower m A minute later they were obliged to stand up ina stooping position, bent under the roof, the water by this time having overtlowed their ankles, The trapper now began to be anxious. Still he would not make known his feelings to the women. The party were now shrunk close together, when, even in this perilous moment, Chick experienced a sensation similar to what he had felt all along while in Winnibah’s company, on finding himself so close to the girl. The feeling was one for which he could not account; such as he had not previously felt toward any other woman—entirely different from that caused by Ada’s presence. Had Winnihah been similarly influenced The youth could not tell, positively, but he had frequently noticed a peculiar expression in her eye whenever their glances met, which inclined him to believe that she too had for him the same peculiar feeling. The water in the cave still kept rising; soon it was above i hips. “We will perish!” cried Ada, “We must perish! have mercy on us!” “Pale-face girl can not bear death,” exclaimed Winnihah, in a voice expressing half contempt, half pity. The fair one answered not, but clung close to pany gna anne to muster the same calm forti- tude shown by the Indian “nes It was no use. The white girl, perhaps evincing more fortitude on some occasions than a daughter of the red-man, could not feel her stoicism under circumstances like the present. On came the water, and soon its cold touch was upon the girl's shoulder. She uttered a half-stifled scream, while Chick vainly endeavored to soothe her ears. ; Meanwhile the trapper addressed himself to Win- nihah: Mais me “ m ieneieces teoapinn’ ‘Aes that infarnal canoe. we'll all hev to go—thar's it |” It seemed as if his prophecy must come true; for the water continued rising! CHAPTER XII. THE CAVE STRUGGLE. * Iv are probably all up with us!” cried Red Claw, “which bein’ tier case, we'd better die fame than t’other ways—thar’s we/ Another minit, and we'll It are too bad fur you to die I'm afeard . hev to swim fur it!” he cried. ke, Chick clutched him by the shoulder and wh red in his ear: “The water to go down...” Soon the truth of this became evident. _The storm had abated, the torrent was diminished in strength and power, and was bi Sapp he settle down. Great was Ada’s joy at : she clapped her hands and from her heart thanked Heaven for this narrow escape. Even as he _trapper’s heart. Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. “We kin soon ventur' forth now!" exclaimed Guy, ‘seein’ as the water is a-goin' down so fast!” - The party could do so, an hour later, the water by that time having receded back to the stream, leav- ing only a foot's depth in the cave. Guy and Chick helped the girls down, after which the former, making his way to the mouth of the opening, peered forth. The storm had ceased, the sun was pouring flashes of light upon the fresh, wet anges and the birds were singing on bough and twig. Just as Guy pushed his head through the opening, he beheld about fifty yards beyond, the head of a horseman, whose side face was turned toward him. Instantly he drew back; but even as he did so the man half turned his face toward him. Now then, the trapper was not certain whether he had been seen or not by the horseman, who was none other than Pierre Leman! Keenly watching the fellow, he endeavored to as- certain if the man had discovered him, The be- | havior of the horseman, who still sat coolly upon his steed, ooo away from the cave, would seem to imply that he not; nevertheless there was a flushing up of the face, which excited the su: pi- cions of the one-eyed trapper, skilled in reading the faces of the kinds of men with whom he was brought Into contact! Of course the shadow in which he lay must screen the observer from the horseman, who soon after made a sign to some per- son or persons not far off. At this the suspicions of the trapper were con- firmed! he had been seen, and there was an attack to be made on the cave! Still Guy waited for was soon given him by the conduct of the horseman. who, joined by the Spaniard, now slowly approached neastoning bask, fo in a whispe ten ‘*k, the tra) naw formed ck of his Gieooter, when the two men at once examined their rifles to make sure that they were in order. The pieces were found all right. “Now,” whispered the trapper, “don't yer go to bein’ in too much of a gee h ‘hick, but jist you lay down here, by me, and ¢ until t give the signal | to fire!" Chick promising compliance, the trapper, followed | vther confirmation, which r, in- by the boy, crept forward toward the entrance. Meanwhile the watchers saw the two horsemen now approaching, and behind them, st up above the shrubbery, the heads and faces of at t half a dozen Indians. “Ef I hain’t mistaken, them Indians hev had an a fur I see three which look like Winnihah's ia) bad Chick was also of this opinion, the signs belng two gray eagle-feathers, sticking up from the head of each of the three alluded to, crossing as they waved. “Yes, I would know them wharever I mought see them!" continued Guy, “fur I've had many a fight with the red-skins of t tribe, which more'n enny other hev tried to entrap me—thar's them!" Meanwhile the horsemen continued to approach. “There,” said Pierre, in a low voice, “ there is th cave, I’m quite sure! saw a shadowy figure draw- ing back into it, just as I looked!” “It might be one of our own party!'’ suggested the Spaniard, : “Tf it is, he will answer us,’ said Leman. “Al though it may hev been no human nek at all but only a cougar or some other wild animal!” *“T’ll soon find out!” cried Pedro, drawing his sword. So ye fen he advanced close to the entrance of the cave, outing, “Who's there?” There being no response, Pedro remarked that what his companion had seen must either have been a@ human being or a wild animal. He was about crawling through the opening to as- certain which, when Pierre laid a hand on his arm as an Indian figure Pear ag from the shrub- bery, shouting, ‘* Me go! me go!’ or the Indian Omeeno, who, having sufficient- ly recovered ha his Pry to walk about, had oined the searching party. son Hold!"’ Ghispered Pierr® to the Spaniard, “and let this fellow go. His life is not worth as much as yours, Besides, these fellows, you know, take great delight in capturing a prisoner single-handed |" It was some time, however, ere the horse-thief could prevail upon the Spaniard to relinquish is de- sign of being the first to enter the cavern. ‘As Pedro stepped aside, the Indian, loosening his tomahawk, crept forward through the entrance of the cave as cautiously asa snake. b “Let me strike!" whispered Chick to Guy. “No; that chap belongs to me,” muttered Guy. “You jist stand by to cover me and don’t interfere. I’ve agrudge ag'in’ this TInjun and must settle the matter myself—thar's me!’ So saying he drew himself along the side of the cavern: then suddenly sprung upon the red-skin, grasping him so firmly by the throat that the intrud- er could not utter a sound. Meanwhile, as mentioned, those without, owing to the darkness in the Gave, could not see what was go- ing on, while those in the chamber—the two girls, now again perched upon the shelf—could only make out the outlines of the three in the narrow passage, their forms screening the entrance 80 as to obscure the light. The next moment Guy had the fellow down, a knee upon his breast and his hunting-knife drawn. The Indian also had contrived to draw his knife; in fact it was in his hand before Guy's had left his belt, and with it he aimed a furious blow at the | ad not the latter caught his wrist, his must have been numbered, oer the blow was a a sk and shee one, and must have sent the knife home to 1€ 13 pewene eer eemennnenee ney spre = ese Determined to now put an end to the combat, as: soon as possible, Guy drove his knife to the hilt in the heartof Omeeno! The Indian fell upon his back and expired without a groan, his dull eyes turned up toward the roof of the cave, eanwhile those without, listening intently, had not failed to hear the noise of the combat. “Follow me!’’ gritted the Spaniard through bis set teeth; ‘there is something going on in that cave!” Crawling through the opening, he was immediate- ly confronted by Chick, who, clutch him by the oat, exclaimed, ‘ Die, black dog! die!” “‘ Not so fast!” answered Pedro, He avoided the dagger-thrust by dodging the leaming steel, whose flash was plainly discernible: nthe dim light; then with a single effort, hurled. the boy down, and aimed a pistol at his head. “No noise; but tell me at once who is in here be- sides yourself !"’ ‘ The crash of a rifle rung through the Lomi and down went the Spaniard with a bullet from Guy's rifle through his brain! The echoes had scarcely died away, when into the eave came Pierre, leading four Indians, who soon effected the capture of the trapper and Chick. io . and Winnthah were also soon discovered and en. ‘Lhe moment the prisoners were led without, Win- nihah was a free git The four Indians of her tribe, who belonged to the searching party, saw and re- cognized her at once, Hev yer woy about Aer |” eried Pierre, when the red-men surrounded him and insisted upon her free- dom; “ but l'd advise yer not to let the Crows on, pian J side of — eeain, So sight of her, or you ma ve to t to keep her!” 2 tew pee later, the dead bodies of Omeeno and the niand were drawn forth. At sight of the former, the eyes of Winnthah's peore zed like coals of fire, and threats of terri- ~ wenqupeae were uttered against the trapper and As to Winnihah, she gave one ance full of poy ot the dead Indian and shrugged her shouklers; but, beyond this, she showed little emotion. nu fact, there was no reason that she should do 680; the man having always behaved toward ber like a tyrant on account of promige she had made ber a mat a promise which bo her to him while he ved, Pierre now brought several Indians to convey the Spaniard’s bedy into the woods and bury it, “As to you,” continued the horse-thief, glancing toward Ada, ‘ you shall come home with me /” “RATHER SURRENDER ME TO THE CRow Iwpians)"™ erjed the tm piri, a haga f oa th ‘ou shall go with me)” repea erre. say she shall xof—thar’s me /”’ exclaimed “A pretty time for you to have marked the thief, sneeringly. “ How her goin’, old hossy” “T kin do it through another!” “No you can’t!” “Yes lI kin. Wrowman!" The girl stepped forward. ‘You know how this man has treated the white: girl—don’t you let him hev her—thar’s you /” The Indian beauty directed a half-scornful glance. at the white maiden, who had excited her con eens so terrified when the cave was full of w r. he if she not such coward me not ket Pierre take!"” she cried. ietly Ada _ returned the half-scornful glance;, then, hing the dusky belle full in the O neti said, in calm, unfaltering voice: “Task not from you the favor of savin my life;. but I do ask of you one favor, which is, that your warriors may give me up to their enemies, the Crows, . rather than that Pierre should take me!’ ghtine he yong Me A en now ng herfeatures. ‘Tha r00d raver i than me thought, No! Pierre shall not take! ote will eave lifel”’ ur say,” Tre you prevent: Remember!" cried Pierre, clamig, after Winni-- hah had made known her wisbes of her tribe, ‘‘ remember you promised to follow me!” ** Promise until find runaways!” said an oki man, evidently a chief; ‘no longer! “Thar's whar “the promise ain't bindin’ beyond the present!" Even as he spaiee, the Indians, advancing, took possession of Ada. Vainly Pierre endeavored to persuade them 1. relinquish her; two words from the beautiful Wir: :- hah were to them worth more than a hundred from the horse-thief. Finding that he was unable to persuade the red- men, he turned his horse’s head and dashed off! “Thar goes as big a scoundrel as thar are on the: face of the ‘arth!’ muttered Guy, as the horseman vanished among the trees. __ Meanwhile, the moment Chick pencnren that Ada was to be well treated, he than wire of Seureys ereiiads for her Tyee aeiine “Stop !" exclaimed one of his captors, him a blow with a stick. The fellow woukd have struck again if Winnihah had -_ ap gp = aie ietly she expostulated, the man answering pointing toward the cold form of Omeeno, whieh some of the Indians had picked up between a ne red to the country of their tribe, distant about miles. “Must not strike, for all that,” said Winnihah. The heard her and looked being able to imagine why she should Omeeno, | of one of those who had you are right!” exclaimed Guy;. . ed Winnihah in a. not. the part.
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14 Winnihah could not have explained this herself. There was about the boy Chick, something which, as already stated, impressed her in a peculiar manner, e impression can only be compared to that which one feels on seeing a face that one has seen before, yet can not imagine when nor where, Again and again did the two exchange stealthy glances, each reading in the eyes of the other the effect produced, The glances thus exchanged excited the jealousy Wof the trapper, who, instead of thinking of the fate # do store for him, was occupied with thoughts of the geeming interest that Winnihah and Chick took in each other! “Tt's the looks of the lad—that’s what it is!" he half mu 1 to himself. “I wara fool to let that boy go with me, seein’ as thar’s a great con- trast between him thar and me Ayur/” putting a hand upon the one eye. CHAPTER XIV. By tha patty arrived ‘at the Indi noon pa arrived at the Indian camp. The body of Omeeno was buried with ths usual «eremonies soon after, when a council was held in the chief's lodge, as to the fate of the prisoners, The council was of long duration, the Indians not seeming able to hit upon means torture severe enough to avenge the death of Onmreeno. Finally, however, they came to a decision. The two prisoners should be stri to the waist, and after being beaten and oa ed with sharp sticks, should be tied upto the trunk of a tree by the bair of their heads and a rope loosely secured under the armpits. Thus suspended, a fire should be kindled beneath them, and both be s#owly roasted alive! As preparatory torture, this information was at once conveyed to the prisoners, who, however, heard the barbarous tidings with the utmost composure. Soon after they were led forth to the place of exe- «ution—a tree with a branch projecting about fifteen feet above the > pround, where the fagots, ready to be lighted, were y piled. As the two were led to this locality nearly all the inhabitants of the camp, Zoune and old, came forth to witness what was to e Mepeed There were squaws, maidens, young apa old men, and toothless not one of whom showed any evidence of pity. but rather an expres- sion of savage delight and exultation. There was the mother of Omeeno, an oki squaw of sixty, who, glaring upon Guy with an expression of demoniacal fury, kept thrusting a sharp stick into his face, thus inflicting innumerable wounds. She was about treating Chick in the same manner, when the voice of Guy was heard. “ Hold thar! don’t ye hurt that lad! It was I, not he, that shot Omeeno—thur’s i /" 4 Howling and porpemin, . the coe and wat § rew closer roun y, thrusting r sharpen sticks into his flesh. He showed no emotion except that his one eye blazed with peculiar flerceness, frame trembled with suppressed passion. Meanwhile he looked around in vain for Winnihah. What had become of the Indian girl? Was he to die withont obtaining another glance at her beauti- fu) features? One more glance and he was ready to die—to bear his tortures like a martyr. He was afraid that he would not see her, that the Indians had noticed her sympathy with the prisoner, and fearful that she might interfere on this occa- sion, had not permitted her to come, Finally the chief, War-nee-we, an old man of sixty and the father of Winnihah, made a signal for the squaws and maidens to withdraw, after which the rope to the prisoners up above the fagots was ad to the branch. yet the two had not been stripped; now, how- ever, pve Te py ents were en off, revealing py ests, not inferior in size to those of largest of the men who surrounded them. An Indian was about mg age Fy m= rope to Chick's |. shoulder, when, suddenly, the o ef's eye lighted up with a peculiar 2 ge He ran up to the agi examined his closely, then, with one w, severed the rope! What was the meaning of this? All eyes were turned upon the old man with an expression of won- der; the squaws especially, with true feminine curi- . osity, pressing forward, uttering questio: cries! For several moments the old Indian word. FA Then his thundering voice rolled upon the air with ‘ startling distinctness: “Stop! Ir 1s WIHOLA, THH SON OF WaAD-KEE-WE! BrHOLD THE MARK!” So saying, he turned Chick half-way round, dis- elosing upon his shoulder the red impression of a BENT BOW! At this time there were excited exciamations among the older {ndians, who crowded round Chick, into his face and glancing alternately from to the chief. “Will the old chief tell Chick what mean?" said the boy. ‘The son of War-nee-we shall know!” was the answer. There and then he made the explanation which was as follows: Sixteen years before, the camp was surprised +4 a e party of Crows, who, pouncing upon it, killed captured a great many warriors, the rest flee- ing, that at some future day they might avenge wales who had —— peatns the an fk li Sa we eapenrené ™m squaw, Mineola, who fast with her little boy Wihola in her arms. Several days after, War-nee-we found his squaw lying dead and tomahawked upon the prairie, but i Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. was unable to discover any trace of his little boy wha, he therefore concluded, had been carried o by those who had slain his mother, and perhaps by this time, also, put to death. For years War-nee-we looked for a trace of his boy—whom he would know by his birth-mark, the bent bow—but could discover pone. ‘Thar, yer see,’ exclaimed Red Claw, “I know more upon that matter, red-skin, than you yerself, since it war me who found yer little weg a-lyin among reeds, where he mought never hey been dis- covered ef I hadn’t heard him ery. Findin’ him thar, I picked him up, and hev brought him up to the stripling which you war jist a-goin’ to torture— thar'’s you! “The white man tells the truth,” exclaimed Chick to his newly-discovered father. ‘* He has been very good to Wihola; he has given him plenty good meat and good clothes to wear; yes, he been good to m4 and his life must not be taken!" he old chief stood glanciag from the boy to the still bound trapper, an undecided look now showing upon his stern features. Finally he retired a few and held consultation with warriors. For along time they talked together, but no con- clusion could be arrived at, wherefore it was decided to let the tribe's prophet determine whether Guy should be liberated or executed. After a few minutes’ consideration, the Bopet made known the suggestion which he stated had been breathed into him by the red-man's friend, the great Manitou. It was this: that the famed Red Claw should die, but not by severe torture; he should be killed at once by & on the head from @ tomahawk in the hand of Omeeno's mother. Vainly Chick—or Wihola, as he must now be called—endeavored to dissuade the red-men from their intention. Guy was bound to the tree, and the mother of the slain Indian was about to strike, when Winnihah, who had been_absent at the grave of Omeeno, nting flowers thereon, according to the custom of her tribe, arriving in the camp and seei what was about to take place, shou to the ol woman to forbear, at the same time rushing toward her, The hag, holding her arm suspended on hearing the voice, half turned, when Winnihah, who, by this time, had reached the spot, rushed up and caught her wrist. Her father advanced to pull her away: but she could not be prevailed upon to let go her hold. Meanwhile she pleaded earnestly, almost wildly, for the trapper’s life, informing her parent how nobly he had saved her from the Crows, etc. At this the old chief once more turned to the prophet, and said something to him, when the man again retired to hold communion with the Manitou. half an hour he again came forth, “What says Wycochee?” inquired the chief. “Wycochee has again heard the voice of the Great Spirit in the air, talking to him, and what he says must be good.” The Indians all crowded round the speaker, listen- ing with eager curiosity to what he might gay. Winnihah alone remainéd close to the tree, her ex- pectant face, however, turned eagerly toward the prophet, Guy also showed intense interest in what might follow; his very life depending upon what the man might take a fancy to say. ‘? Shall the white man live or die?—which says the rophet?" inquired War-nee-we, while the mother of meeno grasped her tomahawk, her eyes blazing like a ny ** The itou has said that the white man still must die!’ was the solemn answer. “Run—run for life!” hissed Winnihah in Guy's bo ah severing, with a knife she had pulled from her girdle, the bonds that held him to the tree. The Indians having, as stated, gathered round the prepeet. the py i 0 had an excellent chance to ke the girl's advice, " Wren ane: bound, be eres Se of i ee then ran a 16 top oO speed, mak strnleke for the woods in front of him, The next moment the Indians discovered the fugi- “yr ay Tak fugitive and puns the tra way they wen ritive an ers, pP- per running with a fleetness which was more than a match for that exerted by the red-men. On—on—on! Swift as the wind, Red Claw continued his way. Several rifles were discharged at him, but the antoerentne: of the trees prevented their taking ef- For miles the chase was continued, when the trap- per having disappeared far ahead, the Indians gave up the pursuit, and returned, one by one, to the camp. Meanwhile, Winnihah, who had been > of having severed the prisoner’s bonds, was ing se- verely reprimanded by her father, the old chief, when Wihola interposed. “ Must not speak so to Winnihah—Chick’s sister!” Winnihah looked surprised, when the chief, re- membering that he had not yet explained to her the relation between the two, did so at once. Her feelings may be imagined. Both the young people now could understand the feeling which the presence of each had excited in the other. Arm in arm, they strolled toward the quarters of Ada, who had already heard the good news, Soon after, the chief again commenced to repri- mand Winnihah, who, however, soon checked him py informing him that she Jove / the trapper. At this un ted announcement the old chief became even rsh, and threatened to beat his daughter. For this the high-spirited girl left the camp at | old chief having night and wandered off in the direction Red Claw had taken. Subsequently the two met, and were united by an old minister, sojourning in those parts. A week later, Ada and Wihola were also married by the same man. Several months after, Wihola (Chi:k), who had re- turned to the camp of bis father, left it forever, the n slain during a skirmish, in which the horse-thief Pierre was also killed. Having no ties of affection to bind him to the red-men, he gia, acceded to the wishes of his wife, and, with Winnihah and Guy, emigrated toa seitlement far away to the northwest, where they still live a mile or so from each other, happy and contented. “'Thar’s no tellin’ how things wil turn out,” Guy often remarks. ‘“ Hyar’s me, with one eye, got as purty a wife as kip be found, with three litte ones, which, thank Heaven! bev all two eyes, and will grow up to be a blessin’ to we—har's wa /" Soon after emigrating, as above described, Red Claw received from an old trapper friend—whom he had known when a boy, but who had aiterward giv- en up his wild life and entered into business in New Cricans—a letter bequeathing him a nice little prop- erty, consisting of a house and garden, in the sub- urbs of the city. This was good news indeed, and the trapper at once announced to his wife his intention of starting to take possession. The beautiful Indian wife begged hard to accom- pany him, but Red Claw resolved to undertake the ngthy journey alone, intending to sell out the property, and return home with the money left to m. Having up such articles as he deemed it necessary , and bade adieu to his friends, he ey “Ny beau morning to take the steamer at u. Pa On arriving at St. Paul, he found the boat nearly ready to start, and was soon aboard. In 4 short time the little vessel was steaming down the river at a fast rate. acueon a eye i ane end of apparently wate e shore. He wasa tall fellow, of dark com ee although his face was nearly concealed by the broad rim of his ¢/w- rth. The trapper paid but little attention to him at first; but when finally he saw the man leave the side of the boat on which he was standing and walk over to the rail, something in his gait impressed Guy with the idea that he had seen the peison be- fore. While puzzling his brain to remember where and under what careumstances, recollection suddenly came to his aid. He bad seen the man one evening hen out bunting, walking arm in arm with Pierre nan. Yes, he remembered it well now, from the fact that when the two met him, they stopped convers- ing, as if not caring to have an honest man know what they were saying. Watching the fellow askance, Guy beheld him turn suddenly round, as if he elt that one eye. On first meeting it the stranger frowned, but the next mo- ment a bland smile lighted his face, and crossing to where Red Claw stood, be held out his hand. ** Well met! well met!” pf would not take the extended hand. *“T have seen you with Pierre Leman, who was a dishonest man!” he said, frankly—*“‘ thar's it!” “Well, what of that? Do you know what I was tryin to dor” 0. * Well, then, I will tell you. I had heard that he was a bad, Sees reg man—a h —a rob- ber; wherefore, I, betng a minister of the gospel, was endeavoring to reform him!” Guy eyed the speaker keenly. He bad the air of a minister sure en white neckcloth and the peculiar of his countenance, uM “Tam glad if I was mistaken,” said the trapper, “and I hope what you say is true,” “True as “Then here’s my band!” cried Red Claw, and the two shook hands heartily. ** And now, which way are you going? As far as tt gone alle te es, L am gO to possession s01D0 property and aie » get *““Ah! I am glad that we are both bound in the same direction. I, too, am going to New Orleans. We can be company tor each other.” “Yes, we kin, willingly!” In due time the boat arrived at St. whence our two travelers took another boat for New Or- leans. While aboard this boat something occurred to puzzle Red Claw. Peering into the lower cabin one morning, he be- held seated at a table, garnished with bottles of whisky and several glasses, a party of six men play- ing cards, evidently gamblin.’, as there was a big pie , with his expression of money on the table before them. Among these gamblers, with back turned to- ward the intruder, sat his fellow-traveler, seeming to enjoy the game with a gusto equal to that of the ** He is no minister—a mere tm 1”? thought Red Claw, and turned = wh p ie rah after, the preten minister joined Guy on dec “See hyar!”’ exclaimed the trapper, turning sharp upon the other, “I do not wish to hev any more to do with you,” € “Why, my friend? What can be the matter? “You are no minister; you are & humbug. I saw ye gambling down sta'rs!” 4
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A smile brok® over the face of the minister, * Did youwsee my face?” “ No. ’ “Well, then, if you had stepped in and looked at | the face, you would have seen that the person you took for me was not I, a wearing my hat and @oat. I have just got out of bed. As I stepped out, I missed my coat and hat, and a man came in with the garments a moment later and handed them to me, begging my pardon for the mistake he had made of taking my clothes in the dark for his own.” The trapper eyed the speaker keenly. ‘But I heard your voice!” Py “There, friend, you must be mistaken. You recog- a hhat and coat, and your imagination did the res' “No; but I heard the voice before I looked into the room! “Ha! hal Now, me dear sir, I'll be bound it was amy voice you heard; for my apartment is separated ‘from the inner room down-stairs only by a thin partition!" Guy colored at this, believing that he had really been mistaken. Finally the boat arrived at New Orleans. “Were you ever here before?" inquired Mr. Wat- #on; for such was the name the stranger went by aboard the boat. “No; I never was.” “Then you can hardly be & to know th location of reer property. What street is it in?” Why did Guy hesitate? Hecould not have told to gave his life. ‘Some nameless feeling seemed urging him not to give his companion the information he asked. Finally, however, he blamed himself for being so suspicious, and with frank fearlessness an- swered: “No. —, —— street.” “T will there with you. It will save you the troable of looking for a street, which I doubt you would find without much difficulty,’ “Thank you,” answered Red w, now feeling ul, and entirely losing all mistrust. They went to the street together, and together en- tered Guy's ner APT n which lived the agent ni of his On hearing the trapper’s wish to sell, the agent said that he would assist him all he could to dispose of the perty to the best advantage. This being agreed upo r. Watson rose to take leave. ‘* When,” he inquired, “do you intend leaving the city ior home?” * As soon as I sell.” “Meanwhile,” returned Watson, “ you can find me at No. —, —— street.” Pik maoe ang te bowed, and shaking hands with Guy, e house. In the course of tn ray had soki ‘his prop- erty for four thousand dollars in gold, and with a glad heart prepared to return home, The money he sewed in a belt, which he buckled tightly around his waist, resolving at night to put it under his pillow, He had seen his fellow- ger twice since they came to New Orleans, and the last time Mr, Watson had stated that he would start for the northina couple of days. As Guy, therefore, step aboard the steamboat four days after the time Watson had spoken of, he was surprised to meet the latter, the first man, on his reaching the deck. “Well met!” exclaimed the minister, smiling— ~ glad to meet you.” ‘I thought you were to start two days ago,” said Guy as they shook hands, ‘ Bo lintended; but unexpected business detained “'Thar’s it,” said the trapper, moralizing, ‘‘ we kin never know what may tum up,” Stes trust you had good success with your property, “I did,” answered Red Claw, As he spoke, he noticed that the eyes of his ey» m were turned toward the belt round his * Are armed?" the minister. oF Nel Ber revolver,”” answered ult we I left Fire-teeth at home, for somehow he and I hey al- ways been so much together that I kind o’ miss his com é YY an Fire-teeth is a I suppose?” * Yer kin believe that; a better one were never han . In due time the boat arrived within twenty miles of St. Paul, where it was detained — winter was now these decided to set out to Dertoren thie "ree de tne ou foot, rather than walt for & passage Cant rally they start ay ve Bee mk Wes- ton— more to the <cotheast ys ce said Watson aif hope we wou’ al wo. Ror we won't,” answered Guy—“ I am purtysure of They walked briskly and were soon passing over a hillock about five nile from the piece chore. One thing Red Claw now noticed, whieh was aie, that his companion would always fall behind an permit him to take the lead. This, however, seemed natura! enough since it was likely that Watson had heard of Guy’s great metas as a guide through- out the wildernesses of United States, both north Ne rye I EEE t, when, standing was Sw. w upon an elevated point ot land, Claw was look- ; Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. ing round him for a good place in which to pass the | ‘down! | the trapper’s breast, and his left hand upon his | night, As he gazed away from his companion, the latter, suddenly catching him by the back of the | neck and placing his knee against him, threw him | The next moment he had both knees upon | throat, while in his right holding a long knife pulled | from a breast-pocket |! ** Now then!” he shrieked, ** owe time has come! / Pierre’s dying words to me—I was near him when he fell in the skirmish—were to hunt and take the | life of him who would lodge information against our | band and cause its breaking up and the loss of all | our profits!” “My first thoughts war right then,’ gasped the trap “you are one of Pierre’s horse-thieves!" ‘ Yes curse you; and now my time has come. Your life and your money arein my hands! I have carefully tri you thus far, and you shall not escape me." As he spoke he lifted his knife ‘h, to drive it to the hilt inthe other's heart. The e descended but not upon Guy; for the latter, kicking his adver- in the stomach, sent him spinning over his head the knife lodging in the arm of the would-be as- sassin. ows of ee soon lost sight of the robber in the darkness, turned, and resumed his way toward home, Before moonrise he came upon a white man's hut, in which he obtained lodgings for the night. Next morning he continued his way, and before another night, was clasped to the bosom of his beautiful Indian wife, who listened with bated breath to a re- cltal of his adventure with the robber Watson. With his money, Red Claw built a fine house and improved his grounds, which will make him com- fortable during the remainder of his life. About two rs after, he was present at the hang- — hurr, the noted burglar, horse-thief, as- Bas e : As prisoner was led past him toward the gal- lows, Guy uttered a oT astonishment on recog- nizing in the culprit the same man who had ac- companied him on the Mississippi boat, under the oT of Watson and subsequently attempted his 8 “Thar's it!” muttered the trapper, ‘“ No won- der that Pierre Leman was so long able to carry 25 n rascality with such a rascal as that to help m . He waited until he saw the man give his last kick; then returned home to his wife children, banish- ing the dark picture from his mind forevermore! THE END. The Great American Story Paper! Bailes Weekly The Best Weekly of Popular, Entortain- ing and Useful Literature Pub- lished in America! nrivaled Corps of Contributors, almost all of in pnat dtive exclusively for its publishers—embraces the following authors of world wide repute— Fred. Whittaker, Capt. ‘Mayne Reid, Donk < er, U yne oO8e) . ger, Jr., Edward L. 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“ ROOD ROAD RS OS RNS ea at ts tt Oo BEADLE'S LIBRARY. 1 Deadwood mck, THE PRINCE OF THE Roap By Edward L. Wheeler. 2 Vellowstone Juck. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 3 Kansas King. By Buffalo Bill. 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters. Mayne Reid and Captam lrederick Whittaker. 5 Vagabond Joe, THE Youre WANDERING JEW. By Oll Coomes. Double Number, 10cts. 6 Bill Biddon, Trapper. by E. S. Ellis. 7 The Flying Yan kee. By Col. P. Ingraham. - Seth Jones. By Edward &. Ellis. at Todd, By E£. 5. Elis. The Two Detectives. By A.W. Aiken. Guiliver’s Travel«. By Dean Swift. The Dumb Spy. By Oil Coomes. Aladdin; or, THe WonverFut Lamp, The Sea-Cat. By Captain Fred. Whittaker. Robinson Crusoe. (27 Illustrations.) Ralph Hoy. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven Voyages. The Phantom Spy. By Buffalo Bill. The Double Daggers. By E. L. Wheeler. The Frontier Angel. By Edward §. Ellis. The Sea Serpent. By Juan Lewis. Nick o° the Night. By T. C. Harbaugh. Diamond Dirk. By Colonel P, Ingraham. The ih tain. By Starbuck. Cloven Hoof. By Edward L. Wheeler. 7 Antelope Abe, tir Boy Gore. Oll Coomes, 28 By Edward L. Wheeler. 20 The Dumb Page. Be Cont. PF, Whittaker. 0 Roaring Ralph Rockwood, rm Recx- Less RancrR. By H St. George, 31 Keen-Knife. By Oll Coomes. Bob Woolf. By Edward L. Wheeler. Bloodhound. §&. W. Pierce. WH OVDIASUwHOwRO otetotocotstoce | 7 iner. By E. L. Wheeler. Cort. Fred. Whittaker, arry St. Geo Edward L. Wheeler. B ; er. C. E. Lasalle. By Archie C. Irons. Cc. E. Lasalle. ward L. Wheeler. Buet Bunker, rae The Boy Rities. The White Buffalo. Powrocadoonnosrosmaoncws RT Te ot td §5 Deadly-Eye. 56 Nick Whifiics' 67 Deadwood Dick’s Eagles. By Wheeler. 58 The Border King. By Oll Coomes, 59,01d Hickory. By any St. a Ob AThe White Indian. Capt. J. F.C. Adams. 61L. Baeckhorn bet By Edward L. Wheeler. 62 The Shadow Ship. By Col. P. Ingraham. 63 Whe Red Brotherhood. W. J. Hamilton. Jack, By T. C. Harbaugh. @ane Bill, By Jos. E. Badger, Jr 66 Single Hand. By W. J. Hamilton. $$: Piviucieather Joo. By Philip 8. Warne. 68 Border Robin Hood. By Buffalo Bill. 69 Gold Rifle. By Edward L. eeler. 70 Old Zip’s Cabin. By Capt. J. F.C. Adams. 71 Delaware Dick. By Oll Coomes. 72 Mad Tom Western. By W. J. Hamilton. 73 Deadwood Dick on Deck. By Wheeler. 74 Hawk-eye Harry. By Ol mes. 75 The Boy Duelist. By Col P. Ingraham. 76 Abe Colt, tan Crow-Kiurr. A. W. Aiken, 77 Corduroy Charlie. By FE. L. Wheeler. 78 Blue Dick. By tain Mayne Reid. Sol bees, GIANT PPER, By A.W. Aiken. Rose By Edward L. Wheeler. BY Captain J. F. C. Adams. y T. C. Harbaugh. Oll Coomes, L. Wheeler. ‘et. Capt. J. F. C. Adams. Rollo, the Bo Idyl Buek Dand Buckram,. B Rock, By G. Waldo Browne, The Land Pirates, By Capt. Mayne Reid. aph Phil. By E. L. Wheeler. 89 Island Jim. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 90 The Dread Rider. By G. Waldo Browne. 91 The Captain of the Club; or, Tae Youna Rival ATHLETES. Braceb: Hemyng. 92 Oanada Chet, By Edward L. Wheeler. 93 The Boy Miners. By Edward §. Ellis. 94 Midnight Jack. By T. C. Harbaugh. 95 The RivalRovers. Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. 96 Watch-Eye, THe SxApow. By FE. 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 STrrance STROKE ror Liserty. By Wheeler. be ake ake ole ole ale ale aly oie st | SDN OW MOS @ " = i] 5 Adveutures of Baron Munchausen, | N By Captain | | | t | | | 211 Crooked Cale, 205 Deadwood Dick's Doom, Jack Hoyle. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Black Sehooner, Roger Starbuck. The Mad Miner. By G. Waido Browne. The Hussar Oaptain. Col. P. Ingraham. Gilt-Kdged Dick. By E. L. Wheeler. Will Somers, tye Boy Derective. Morns, Mustang Sam. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. The Branded Hand. By Frank Dumont. Cinnamon Chip. By dward L. Wheeler. Phil Hardy, tu Boss Boy. By. C, Morris, Kiowa Charley. By T. C. Harbaugh. Tippy, THs Texan. By George Gleason. Bonanza Bill, Mier. By Ed. L. Wheeler. Picayune Pete, By Charles Morris. Wild-F ire, Boss orrne Roap. By Dumont. The Young Privateer. By H. Cavendish. Deadwood Dick’s Double. By eeler, Detective Dick. By Charles Morris. The Golden Hand. By Geo. W. Browne. The Hunted Hunter, By Ed. 5. Ellis. Boss Bob, By Ed. L. Wheeler. Sure Shot Seth. By Oll Coomes. Captain Paul. By C. Dunning Clark. Night-Hawk Kit.: By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 37 The Helpless Hand. Capt. Mayne Reid. ae “4 by mined L. enaclat, udge Lynch, Jr. . O. Harbaugh. Blue Blazes, Frank Dumont. Solid Sam. By Edward L Wheeler. Handsome Harry. Charles Morris, Sear-Face Saul. By o Coomes. 4 Dainty Lanee, THe Boy Sport. By Badger. Captain Ferret. By Edward L, Wheeler. Silver Star, THE Boy nT. By Coomes, Will Wildfire. By Charles Morris, Sharp Sam. By J. Alexander Patten. A Game of Gold. By Ed. L. Wheeler. Lance and Lasso, By Capt. F. Whittaker. Panther Paul. By Jos. EF. Badger, Jr, ILDFTRE’s b DO GO GD BS GO BO SO NS OS NS RS RS RO OS SS OS bet att pet at pt pt Stik = SO DADO eH OS DI DokhoO ) me Wt OSD The Swerd Hunters, 4 Gold Trigger, THe Sport. T. C. Harbaugh. Deadwood Bick of Deadwood; or, Tue Pickxep Parry. a v L. Wheeler. Mike Merry. By Charlies Morris, Faney Frank ot Colorado, Buffalo Bill 9 The Lost Captain. By Whittaker. 0 The Black Giant. J. E. Badger, Jr. 1 New York Nell, By E. L. Wheeler. 2 Will Wildfire in the Woods, Morris. 3 Little Texas, By Oll Coomes, 4 Dandy Rock's Pledge. By G.W. Browne. 56 Billy Baggage. By Charlies Morris. 6 Hickory nr rry St. George. 7 Asa Scott, Tam Steammoat Boy, By Willett. 8 Deadly Dash. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. Tornado Tom. By T. C. Harbaugh. y SF QaikOS He Ooomase A Trump Card, Charles Morris, Ebony Dan, By Frank Dumont. Thunderbolt Tom. By Harry St. George. Dandy Rock’s Rival. By G.W. Browne. Bob Rockett, Tu Boy Doncer. By Morris. Captain Arizona, By Philip 8.Warne. The Boy Runaway. By Lieut. Perry. Nobb ick of Nevada, E. L. Wheeler. Old Solitary. By Oli Coomes. Bob Rockett, THe Bank Runner. Morris. The Sea Trailer. By Lieut. H. D. Perry. Wild Frank. By Edward L. Wheeler. Little Hurricane. By Oll Coomes. The Hidden Hand, By Chas. Morris. The Boy Trailers. By Badgor, Jr. Evil Eye. By Frank Dumont. Cool Desmond, By Col. Delle Sara. Fred Halyard. By Charles Morris. Ned Temple, tHe Borver Boy. Harbaugh. Bob Rockett, rum Cracksman. By Morris. Dandy Darke. By Ww. R. Eyster. Buffalo Billy. By Cant. Taylor, U. S.A. Captain Kit.” By Lieut. H. D, Perry,U.S.N, Captain Mask, By Philip 8. Warne. 4 Buffalo Bill’s Bet. By Captain Taylor. Deadwood Dick’s Dream. By Wheeler. Shadowed, By Charles Morris. ¥ Little Grit, rz Wiwp Riper. By Ingraham, 198 Arkansaw. By T. C. Harbaugh. 199 Featherweight. By Edward Willett. 200 The Boy Bedouins, By Whittaker. 201 The Black Hills Jezebel. By Wheeler, 202 Prospect Pete, By Oll Coomes. 203 The Boy Pards. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 204 Gold Plume, TH Boy Banprr. Ingraham. By Wheeler 206 Dark Paul, tHe Tiare Kina. By C. Morris 207 Navajo Nick. ByT. C. Harbaugh. 208 The Boy Hereules, By Oll Coomes. 209 Fritz, Tar Bounp-Boy Detective. Wheeler. 210 Faro Frank of High Pine. By Eyster. By Jos. I. Badger, Jr. BH OS DAWN HOS DAO HOS mw fm hat int bt ff fll je fl fll fl ft et hh oe ff Def el fu Qo SOS D SS SOSH MM WE HH MHP akad Fahad FeFsBs¥AARADARDAARD AAS Sr Se SV See a Sy whe she she shee shee he she he OO 223 } | 233 | 237 240 Cyclone Kit, Ozark Alf, Edward Willett. Dashing Dick. By Olli Coomes., Sam Charcoal, By Charles Morris, Snoozer, Tux Boy SHarp. By E. L.Wheeler, Dusky Darrell, Traprrr. By E. Emerson. Little Wildfire. By Oll Coomes. Crimson Kate. By Col, P. Ingraham. The Yankee Rajah. By C. D. Clark. Plucky Phil. By T. C. Harbaugh. Gold-Dust Dick. By E. L. Wheeler. Joe Buck, of Angels. By. A W. Aiken. Old Rocky’s * Boyeos.’? Buckskin Sam. Shadow Sam, _ By Charles Morris. Apollo Bill. By Edward L. Wheeler. Lone Star, the Cowboy Captarn 3 or, Tue Mystrreriovs Ranonero, By P. Ingraham. 238 The Parson Detective. By Oll Coomes. 239 The Gold-secker Guide; or, Tae Losr MovuntTarIn. By Captain Mayne Reid. By Edward L. Wheeler. 241 Bill Bravo and His Bear Pards, By T. C. Harbaugh. KinG oF THE Mountarm. By 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 234 235 236 The Two ‘ Bloods®, By Charles Morris. The Disguised Guide. By Oll Coomes. Sierra Sam. By Edward L. Wheeler. 245 Merle, the Middy. By Col. P. Ingraham, 246 Glant George. By Buckskin Sam. 247 Old Grizzly and His Pets. By Captain “ Bruin’ Adams. 248 Sierra Sam's Seeret. By E. L. Wheeler. 249 Milo Romer, By Capt. Fred. Whittaker, 250 Midshipman Miutineer. By Ingraham. 251 Light-~house Lige. By J. F. 0. Adams 252 Dick Dashaway. By Chas. Morris. 253 Sierra Sam’s Pard. By FE. L. Wheeler. 254 The HMalf Blood, By Edward §. Ellis. 255 Captain Apollo. By T. C. Harbaugh. 256 Young Kentuck. By Capt. Mark Wilton. 257 The Lost Hunters, By Capt. Adams. 258 Sierra Sam’s Seven, By EK. L. Wheeler. 259 The Golden Harpoon, ByR. 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 Whe Tiger Tamer. By Capt. Whittaker. 266 Killb*’ar, the Guide. By Ensign Warren. 242 243 2At 267 The Buckskin Detective. By T. C. Harbaugh. 268 Deadwood Dick's Death Trail, By Edward L. Wheeler. The Gold Ship. By Col. P. Ingraham. Blizzard Ben. By Captain Mark Wilton. The Huge Hunter. By Edward 5. Ellis. Minkskin Mike. By Oll Coomes. Jumbo Joe. By Kdward L. Wheeler. Jolly Jim, By Charles Morris. _ Arizona Jack. By Buckskin Sam. Merle Moute’s Cruise, By Ingraham. Denver Doll. By Edward L. Wheeler, The Three Trappers. By Major Carson. Old Winch, Tex Rivrte Kine. By T. C. Harbaugh. Merle Monte’s Fate. By Col Ingraham. Denver Doll's Victory. By Wheeler. The Typo Detective. By Edward Wilett. Iudian Joe. By Major L. W. Carson. 284 The Sea Marauder. By. Col Ingraham. 285 Denver Doll’s Decoy. By E. L. Wheeler. 286 Josh, the Boy Tenderfoot; or, TH WiLp oF Buzzarp Bar. By Mark Wilton. 287 Billy Blue-Eyes, By Col. P. Ingraham. 288 The Scalp King. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams, 289 Jolly Jim's Job. By Charles Morris, 290 Little Foxfire. By Ol] Coomes. 291 Turk, the Ferret. By E. L. Wheeler. 292 Sanche Pedro, tHe Boy Banprr. By Major EK. L. St. Vrain. 293 Red Claw, Tar One-Eyrep Trapper. By Captain Comstock. 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 | 212 Dashing Dave. By Charies Morris. 213 Fritz to the Front. By E. L. Wheeler. | 214 Wolfgang, THE Rosper or THE Ruiner. | By Captain Frederick Whittaker. 294 Dynamite Dan. By T. C. Harbaugh. 295 Fearless Phils or, Tax Kina or Qrartz- VILLE. By Edward Willett, 296 Denver Dolls Drift. 101 Jack Harkaway in New York. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 102 Dick Dead-Eye. By Col. Ingraham. 103 The Lion of the Sea. By Col. Delle Sara. 104 Deadwood Dicks Device, By Wheeler. By E. L, Wheeler. } 405 Old. Rube, raz Hunter. Capt. H. Holmes. | 215 Captain Ballet. By T. C. Harbaugh. 297 The Tarantula of Taos, By Buckskin 106 Old\Frosty Guipe. By T. C. Harbaugh. 216 Bison Bill. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Sam. 107 pepo 7g Fs ° By Pomme Cove | 217 Captain Crack-Shot. By E.L. Wheeler. 298 The Beach Pirates, By Charles Morris, 139 ae Rr gk eg _ Lertied, By 218 Tiger Tom, THE TEXAN TERROR, Coomes. | A new Ieee every week. 219 Despard, the Duelist. By P. S. Warne, 220 Tom Tanner. By Charlies Morris. ) 221 Sugar Coated Sam. By E. L. Wheeler. | 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport. By Ingraham, Hdwarl L, Wheeler. : : 110 The Black Steed of the Prairies, A Thrilling Story of Texan Adventure. By Bowen. Ill Whe Sea-Devil CoL P. 112 The Mad Hunter, By BurtonSaxeq, The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all Newsdealers, five vents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents each. BEADLE & ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.