Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 325) (1883 10 16)
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Edward L. Wheeler’s GREAT DETECTIVE STORY of the Quaker City. 4 pF 1 .. \s rs oe. a, Ee :, o-e NA a RR se @ \-——$— OX x bY t] Ah Ve ed ie \ s) . — Ie ar rs “ NS SURE AB Ce TT SS (em my _ a\ Val \ | (a Tit Teel lL nT nn Pa IS $2.50 a year Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y¥., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyright, 1883, by BEADLE AND ADAMS. October 14, 1888, Single PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, 5) Vol. XIII. Number. No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. N Oo. o925. ag —_ a " she 4
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2 Kelley, Hickey & Company, |The Sleuths of Philadelnhia; a? : OR, 5 SATAN’S SOCIAL. A Phrilling Réal Life Romance of the {i _ Centennial City. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF “DEADWOOD DICK,” ‘DENVER ee DOLL,” ‘'BOSS BOB,” ETC., ETC, W. - . AR CHAPTER I. \9 HICKEY PICKS UP A TRAIL, x noonday in August, 1882, two men stood n. front of the Ridgway House, opposite the nden ferry-house, at the foot of Market street, Philadelphia. PY aire were young, probibly twenty-three and ty-six years of age, respectively. Their position, as they stood in conversation, seemed to indicate that they had met by b * chance, ——" ~ The elder was rather tall and portly, witha rk, bandsome face, which, withal, wore a a@nister expression; a thick black mustache adorned bis lip, and eyes of veriest j»t looked from beneath the rim of bis polished silk hat, His dress was rich and of fashionable cut, set with a lavish display of jewelry, and a dge of human cbaracter would have pro- ounced him of that class which furnishes sur gamblers, sportiog-fraternity, and aspirant iticians. y Tne younger man was quite unlike the one addressing bim. He was well-built, in an ath- levic sense; was of blonde complexion, with light-brown hair and eyes, and a slight but raceful mustache, ard was handsomer than he other, for bis face wore a frank, open expression, and his eyes sparkled with good- nature. - He was attired in a neat business-suit, and ore no jewelry except a watch an chain. If there ws any relationship between the two it was not percepiible ia their bearing, or ip resemblance, ' Hillo, Floyd—where away now?” the elder arty had said at their meeting, ‘You're a hull sort of fellow. We never see you around Sansom street any more.” “No, I don’t roam about much!” answered Floyd. “The f.ct is, I haven’t time; then, _ too, I have even Jess inclination than time,” “Pspaw! You'll be a bachelor at twenvy-five if you don’t stir about, I bear old Banker b.s had ou promoted to chief clerksbip?” “To my surprise, yes. I bad never ‘thought such a thing.” “Queer old crank is uncle, or my name ain’t J+ck Fallon, The idea of intrusting so large a }u-iness to an inexperienced person proves that tus old fellow must be losing bis business wit-.” “1 fail to understand you, sir. Am I rot as well fitted for the position as any one e'se?” “Ob! perhaps”—with a sneer, “Of course it is none of, my business; as the old men shipped ma for belping mvselt out of a little i arbi debt, I should have nothing to say. i sa m tbis morning, however, and he seem ore lenient. I heard a bit of news, too.” _ “Tudeed!” . “*Yes. The old fellow bas made bis will.” “IT don’t see anvthing extraordinary about that. He is getting old, and bis health is very voor; so that it is advisable, I should say, to make preparations for the disposal of his large property.’ ‘*Mavbe, I suppose bite from the melon * By no means, 1 expect and desire 1 othing, ot are expecting a fo this life, which I do not honestly earn.” + “Bab! Independence is a good point in the game of bluff. but in the game of gold it is truck, You expect a bite; Belle Banker will come in for a share; and I naturally have ‘& Wea‘her eye on a competency, at least,” _ Ernest Fioyd glanced at bis watch. “Well, I bave no aspirations, except to at- many years.” - Yon don’t believe that he will?” Hardly.” “What reasons have you to think that he wit. not?” ‘ _Kolley, Hickey ge ee — —_ — — -— re r tend to my duties, and I hope uncle may live | ———E—————— Ee & Co., the Sleuths of 2 9 ‘ ** None in’ particular, except that he has sent | for Miss Belle to come home,” *Pnew! When?” } “To-morrow night. Gloucester, in thé Sylph—uncle’s yacht.” * Have * hie ever met her, so that you would know hér?’ “T fancy so. She spent the summer, two baci ago, at father’s farm, near Haverford olege. ; And a thoughtful expression stole over young Floyd’s face, as he spoke—which Juck Fa'lon noticed with a scowl, and averted bis tace, that his evil expression might not be detected by his cousin. ‘Well, I am glad she is coming,” he siid, a moment later. ‘* We used to be the best of friends, and she can easily belp me to a partner- ship with the old gent, By the way, what hour is she to arrive!” * She will reach Gloucester about dusk, and I will be there to mee” ber,” ‘*Well. give ber Jack’s kindest regards, By the way, won’t you take a run over to Riigway Park? I bave to meet an acquaintance there, this PM.” ‘* No, thanks; I must get back to the store. I should have been there some minutes ago.” “Well, by-by! Give my love to Belle, and tell ber [ wi.l embrace the first opportunity to see her,” The twain then separated, young Floyv? bur- rying ameay up Market street, and Jack Fallon saunter'ng leisurely along Front street, toward Whart 82 Standing unobserved in the doorway of the Riagway House, a third purty had been a listener to tne foregoing conversation. He was of athletic build an | fine frame, his every move betri ying quickne-s and nerve; io face he was rater preposs ssing. but not to say handsome, with clean-cut, firmly-molded features shrewd brown eves, and a pleasans moath, shaded by a light mustache, is hair was curly, and the ‘ead it covered was one that looked capable of holding a deal of common-sense, <A plain suit of blue, and a straw hat gave him the appear- ance of an ordinary business mn, but that be was more than all this, the future of our ro- mane will show. Whils slowly puffing at a cigar, he had watched the two cousins and listened to their conversation wih considerable interest. Es- pecially did his keen gaze rest upon the sinister face of Jack Fullon, noting its every expres- sion. When the twain separated, the listener’s gaze still followed Fallon, uniil he was lost to view, in the crowd, “3 Jick Fallon is back again, eh?” he mut- tered. ‘He is as bold as a lion, too, notwith- standing there are several little charges that would land him in Moya. He is gcing over to Ridgway to meet an acquaintance, eh? I won- der what’s in the wind?” Involuntarily he lef: the doorwav of the hotel, and sauntered in the direction Fallon had gone. His brows were knitted in perplexity, and be was evidently trying to recall some- thinz be had beard, but which haa slipped his memory. Kelley told me’ something not long ago, whicb connec ed J ck Fallon with the Bankers —ab! [haveit! Fallon was head c'erk in the establishment, with a prospect of tecoming junior partner. Just in the nick of time it was “iscovered that he bad embezzled a considerable sum of money from his employer, tu square up a Sansom street gambling-debt. When dis- covered, he made good the amount, and the matter dropped. Hnmph! he’s a shark out of water, and if he isn’t in for some mischief, to- dav, I shall be surprised.” Continuing bis stroll, he reached the Ridgway pier just as the boat had steamed off for the notorious resort, Ridgway Park, I may as well add, for the benefit of my readers who are not acquainted in and about the Quaker City, is an islend in the middle of the Delaware opposite the foot of Chestnut street. It comprises several acres of level, tree shaded sorfave. and boasts of a res- taurynt, musie-stand, bath-houses, and many citehpenny #ffrirs that go to make up the sum- mer resort of the period. In the earher bours of each day, it is the haven of many German fami ies of respectability; but after mid-after- noon it fills up with a mass of humanity of every kind. and the signs of ‘ beware cf pick- pockets’ but faintly suggest what types of | character make the pleasant spot their rendez- ! -vons until late at right, | Being located between two States—Pennsyl- ; vauia and New Jersey, law and order would be I am to meet ber at hiladelphia. I lon? if b wholly a dead letter did not the management pr: vide a squad of special police to prevent ac- tual violence or riot. Detectives look here for their game, very often; and find it, too, And it is not the criminal class only who come bere, but the heads of some of the first families can often be seen qu: ffing beer or wine with persons they would biush to be seen with the on main-land, Dan Hickey, private detective, who had fol- loved in the wake of Jack Fallon, w: i] knew that Falion se)dom frequented this resort, 80 @ suspicion naturally arose in bis niid, that some a 5) ant reason existed for tis presen! visit. ver on the alert, Dan resolved to investigate While waitir g upon the pier for the brat to return, a hand tapped bim upon the arm, and turning about, be found bimself confrinted by a little, shriveled-up specimen of bumanity, at- tired in rags and armed with a boot-t lack’s out- fit. If ever a great ci y boasted a genuine etreet gamin, the boy before the detective was one. He was probably between twelve and thirteen years of age, although be lookea y ounger on ac- count of bis sbort stature. His face was one of intelligence beyond hi- years, bise, es sharp and sagacious, and bis mouth, of goooly size wore a waggish expression, even when it was not dis- torted with a mischievous grin, If the rag-houses of the Quaker City could have produced a suit composed of a greater amount of tatters, patches and dirt, it might have been put to good use in a museum. This was Sewer Sam—‘ witb a bisto: y longer than the tail o’ seventy cats,” as be ott'n ren ark- ed—and he was the juni r member of the great private detective trio of Kelley , Hickey & Co., with whom we bave to deal in this most vera- cious tale. S- wer Sam was, ostensibly, a beotbleck, with by-play of searching sewers for valusbies, run- ning errands, and beating his way through the world 8s best he could. In reality he was the ferret of the firm, and by tbe senior members considered invalu» ble, He was witty, seucy even to impudence, fear- less, cunning, and united with all a good judg- ment beyund bis years. A smile lit up tLe face of Dan Hickey at sight of the bey, ‘© W.1l, Sam. my boy, where have you been these last couple of days?’ be asked, ** You're lookin’ as clean as a fairy.” **Down in the main sewer!” the gamin grin- ned, ‘Sum feller tried to kick me hecnuse I called him the dude, an’ I blacked lis right ob- servatory fer bim, an’ slid down a culvert, Got a Jeetle too far to ketcb myself, an’ so thort I might jest as well go down inter the main.” * You'll get your neck broken one of these times, my boy,” Nary, while whalebenes grow from eatin’ pen an eges. What's yer disturbance, down ere!’ ‘“‘Oh! I’m scenting that ‘rounder,’ Jack Fal- ? “Sho! the feller w’at spiled the mug of Stub Maginness, last ‘lection? et urn?” “The seme. Have you a: y ctangef” “No, Spent the last red fer a consumptive clam. Th yer the sewer’s better ter hone up yer sppetite than a bottle o’ Scher ck’s Bitters. git ten cer ts per dozen, every time ] recker- mend Schenck.” “Bab! You are getting to be en inveterate liar, Sam. You bang about here until Fallon comes over, and then shadow bim.” « Fer bow long?” * All nigbt and to-morrow.” ‘But where’s the cl.ug to come inf” “The whet?” “ The freg’s cyebrows—mvtten’s mind—we tables, entr.es a lit mud, an’ sicb like—or, usin’ Webster, toe hash!” “On! Pd forgotten that you ever eat any- thing. Here’s a dollar. Now, mind your trap and keep your eves open.” | Sam seized the dollar, with avidity, and skur- ried across the street, where, im less than five minut+s, he was pummeling a larger urvhin than himself, who had ordered bi off the ent, ° Paying no further attention to him, Dan Hickey walked down the pier tothe boat, whick had just arrived, and in a few minu es after- ward, with a bundred others, was landed at Ridgway Pork. A The spa ious grounds were well filed, and seats at tables were at a premium, The leger flowed freely, and the gabble of the multitude made rude discord with ‘he operatic music, fur- nished by the excellent bund.
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Hickey did not walk around much, but, lean- | ing carelessly against a tree, allowed bis keen to rove over the scene. It did not take him long to discover Jack Fallon. He was seated on the baicony of the restaurant, and no one was immediately near m. He must therefore be waiting. Being unknown to tbe man, Hickey ascended to the balcony, and took a seat directly in Fallon’s rear, ordered a beer, and to all intents, gradually dozed off into a svuod sleep, but, thouga hie eyes were closed, he never was more wide awake, A fall hour passed and Fallon grew very rest- | less, judging by his uneasy movements. | Hickey became none the less impatient; but | just then he heard Fallon speak; “An! is that you, Kitty? You are late, my | dear. Be seated!” “*I could not get here sooner, sir, I bad sev- eral errands to do.” ‘“What were they?” “Well, sir, you see the master is taken worse. and I bad to g» let Mr. Floyd know, so he could telegraph for Miss Belle to meet him at Glo’s- ter, to-night, sir.” ‘* So the fellow is going, eh?” “ Yes, sir.” “Curse it! Thischangeis unfortunate! Isthe old man really very much worse?” “So the doctors say.” Fallon was silent a moment. When he spoke, it was huskily, ‘‘Well, did you find out if a telegram was gent to Banker or not?” “Tt was sent.” ‘“ Was it answered?” ‘No. Butler says he throwed it in the fire, at the master’s request,” “Curses on him! Well, the only way to deal with the old dolt, is by strategy, and there is little time to work, ou don’t know in whose charge the will was placed?” “No, sir.” “Who attends him?” “ Batler—constantly.” **Can he be bribed?” “No. He is as faithful as a sleuth-hound, on a trail.” ‘Thank fortune I’ve none of those after me. Is anv one admitted to the room?” ** No one but the doctor and Master Ernest.” ‘*Curses on that fellow! I bave something pickling for him. Come, I will see you as far as the shore; then, 1 have work to do!” CHAPTER II. KELLEY’S CRUISE. Tumy left the balcony together, and went down to the landing, where they were in time to have taken the boat for Philadelpbia; but Dan Hickey, ever vigilant, perceived that they did not ride across, but stood on the landing until the boat was gone, when the girl, a pretty oung woman of seventeen, shook ber clinched t at Fallon, and made several other angry sticulations, showing that she was out of mper. flickey quickly left the balcony, and by the time seers the ground below, they were sing him. “I tell you it will not be possible for me to marry you to-night,” Fallon was saying, in a low, earnest tone, as they became seated. ‘I know I promised you, but then, I’ve got to see to important business to-night, out of which, if I am successful, I can make tens of thousands of dollars,” ‘It matters not if it were tens of millions!” the young woman replied, with flashing eyes, and not at all careful to guard her tones, ‘* You ave made me your tool long enough. Now you have the choice of marrying me, or I will turn and let the cat out of the bag!” _‘* You dare not!” he hissed, a look of despera- tion coming over his face, “Try me and see!” she replied, sweetly sar- castic. ‘I fahey you do not know wha are talking about, sir,” ** Don't 1? Well, maybe not.” He drummed on the table a moment, medita- you tively. $4 Phere is but one way I know of, whereby I ean humor your whim,” he said. ‘I havea panes to meet about dark, and my business can transacted in a couple of hours, so that I can meet you at Nineteenth and Spruce, at ten o'clock, ill that answer your purpose? There is a minister handy, and it won’t take feng to tie the knot.” Kelley, Hickey éz Cc., the “euths of Philadelphia, “Do you solemuly preu.ise to be there, Jack Fallon?” **I solemnly do promise to be there at the appointed time.” “Very well. You know the consequences if you are not!” } ‘““] have promised you. That’s all that is necessary. Come; let’s go.” The nex* boat took them back to Philade]phbia, as it also did Detective Hickey, wbo, after +ee- ing the pair separate, aud Sewer Sam skulk away on the trail of Fallon, made. bis way up- town, his mind busy in digesting the sum and substance of what be bad beard, Tbat there was some heinous plot which in- volved Joshua Banker, or his daughter, Belle, now seemed assured, and Dan Hickey was not the man to close his eyes against any piece of villainy that his earnest efforts could bi: ffl. To evil doers be was justly known as a ‘ terror.” lt was bis success as a sleutb, and partly owing to the fact that be could not b+ bribed, that made bim and bis partners unpopular with the regular force of the city, as well as otber private ‘investigating ” concerns. Slowly and surely, however, the “trade” came to the new firm, and their patronage grew to be both extensive and profitable. Jotun P. Kelley, the senior member, held a ward constableship, and was also ergaged in mercantile pursuits, and only took an active part whenever Hickey or Sewer Sam were iu need of help, of a legal or executive nature— which Kelley could furnish at a moment’s notice, as be was solid with the mayor and chief of police. He preqoently assumed personal charge of a case, and invariably carried it through in a satisfactory manner, Whenever idle, the trio had a rendezvous in the front room of an otherwise tenantless house, on Sansom street; and it was to this retreat that Dan Hickey took bis way, after leaving Ridgway pier. A rip upon the rickety door elicited a bearty **Come in!” from the interior, and the detective entered, and closed the door behind bim, The room was plainly but neatly furnished— everything in the arrangements, however, indi- cating the absence of a woman’s hand, Beated in an easy-chair, witb his heels ele- vated upon a table, was a powertully-built man, spare of fl sh, but large-boned and brawny, His face was rather long, with heavy jowls, a firm chin, and high cheek-bon’s, and the seums upon it told that life bad not all been a rose- walk to bim—that bitter experience bad in a measure steeled him to a degree approaching recklessness, It was an honest face, with penetrating brown eyes, a firm mouth, shaded by a sandy mus- tache; it was a face that an honest man in trouble could look into, and not find there an evidence of selfishness and avarice, He was rather plainly attired, and seemed to be taking full en foyment of his sole companion —a hue meerschaum pipe. ‘Hello, old boy!” be cried, stretching forth bis massive hand as the detective entered. ** How’s the wind?” : ‘Fair to good!” Hickey replied. “At your pipe I see!” *What else is left for a fellow, with notb- ing to do, and nothing to pass away time? Fetch out the gloves, and !’ll box your ears for you—anything to stir me up.” Hickey laughed quietly. ‘No scrappin’ to day, John. There’s business on band.” “Of course there is. Johnny Clark and Arthur Chambers have both been here after ou. ‘Chambers and Clark be hanged! It’s too hot weatber to put on the gloves—wait till October and I'll knock ’em both out, I’ve some- thing to tell you.” ‘Not a bit of it. Iknow just what you are going to say.” “* What?” ‘*-You mean to tell that it bas heen discovered that there is a powerfully-orgenized gang of sneak-thieves working the stores, and that you’ve a notion we can capture the boodle,” “Nothing of the kind. lve struck the snake- trail to a case that will yield bigger resul's. ou know Josbua Banker, the big wool-mer- chant. of Kensington?” “Yes, very well,” and Kelley—for this was he —looked rather grim as he made the answer. led do you speak so doubtfuilyf” Dan asked, “Because I know afew things that no one else knows, But never mind what they are, What of Banker?” “He is dying.” 4 8 ed “Well, is there anything remarkable about that? We have all got to go th ough the same mill—the sooner the better for some cf us ” “*There is something remarkabie. Banker is a ren of considerable wealth, is he nowy” *T should judge be migbt be a safe man ona half-a miilion bond.” : * So Lbave beard, Well, be bas a daughter, has he not?” * Yes. she has been off down in Jersey some where, fiuishing her studies under sume forcign professor.” “Studying the anatomy of watermelons, eb? Well. vow, it appears there are two nephews— one Floyd, now chief-clerk in Banker's estab- lishment, and that scaly inoividual, Jack Fallon.” 7 ‘“‘Humph! I bunted him out of the State last winter.” “But be is back again. Saw biu yuizzing Floyd to-day. Followed bim, and bhr.id hig conversation with a woman whim be called Kitty. Heard enough to cause me to know that Kitty is his rpy in the Banker maueion, and | b lieve there is some deep plot afoot by which Fallon calculates to step i110 a share of the Banker’s million, if not the hole of 1%.” Hickey went on to relate in full what be had beard, seen, and done, bis pertner Ji tening* witb his usual severe expression witl.out open- ing bis lips, except to emita pr ff cfsmeke. - ‘There! what’s your idea of the cere?” Dan asked, when be bad firi-ted, “ Den’t it lock as if it were to be a case of foul play?” “If Jack Fallon is in any wey ecnnected with it, rest assured there is some cevil’s work afoot. Think it over for awhile, and await Sam’s return, That young ratis as slrewd as they make ’em, and we might knock about for a week and find out less in that time than he would in a day.” ** And what are you poing to do?” ** lve a little constable tusiness to do, down at No. — Pine stre:t: then Ili come beck,” * Let’s see—that’e toe place where Scannon was knifed, eb?” ‘The tame. The place bears a gord name, as far as respectability is concerved, tut there is undoubtedly something crooked at out it, and were poor Ned Shannon’s lips ursesled by death, to day, be cculd likely a tale cf nystrry unfold, If fcur months’ rent are mt forth- coming, to-day, I’l] endeavor to penetrate some of the mysteries of the place,” ‘* Wall, tate care of yourself, and Y)l rumivate over the prc babilines and possitiliiies of the Banker case.” * You can wager that John P. don’t often et left!” the senior partner smiled, and kft the room. An bour later, be rung the door-tell] of sn im- posing residence on Pire street, near the heart of the city, and quietly awaiied an answer to the sun: mcns, A colored boy directly opened the eoor. ‘**Missus emn’t in!” be said, stiffly, without waiting for ihe detective to speak, “Get out, you ecorched monkey!” And Kelley pushed the lad aside, entered the ve sti- boule, and from there stepped into the elegently~- furnisbed hall. ‘*Where’s the boss of the place?’ turnin thresteningly on the negro, ‘Speak up, or)’ make a door matof you!” A side door opened, and a woman’s voice said, falteringly: “This way, sir; did you wish to see me?” Kelley pusbed the dcor open, end passed into a park r, which, in i's megvificence of turnish- ing, was very noticeable, A woman, robed in a wrapper of creamy tilk, stood in the center of the apartment, ri parcing Kelley vith flashing crtsr—a wenercusly Lend: some and well-preserved wiman ot n eybap forty years, though she Ieohed even younger, neath the gasligh' of a dezziing chard@elier, Jewels gleemed upon } er hair, upon ber frir bands, end at her throat, end ber curky eyes seemed to scintillate with brilliancy akiv to the mag ificent aiamonds she wore Kelley paused respectfully, jost within the door, bat in hend, while bis g:ze siudied ber fece searchingly, for an instant, tbat was sufficient. lt was a face in which were writt«n deceit, cunning, treachery, and passion. ‘Excuse my intrusion, madvin,” Kelley said, “but my business of constable requires me to be a Jitrle forcible in making my celis, some- times. Do you recognize me?” “*T do not, sir—I—I—” And the woman flushed, angrily, .nd petted her prey slippered foot — the flor... ‘You do recognize me. Iam John F Kelley, : \
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uff you dont gol ; ai your service. You are» Lucille La Verd, ae Lucy Larkins, formerly of Piper’s Court. y my soul, people and circumstances do change! You recollect I once got you out of the central station on bail, and you sloped! Only cost me five hundred, you know; but then, such little things are mere trifles, so to speak. I often use a fiver fora cigar-lighter. But, I gay, you seem to be driving gayly, here. How would you like to help your landlord along to the tune of about four bundred dollars?” “Sir! Your intrusion is unpardonable, Leave my house!” ‘Sbow me a paid-up mortgage and a clear deed, ma’am, and nothing will please me better than to oblige you.” ; “Will you not go, sir?” “Will you pay tne back rent?” “T will not.” “Then, your three months’ notice and three days’ grace, having expired, I wiil make a levy on the contents of this bouse, and. advertise them for sale; and more—I will watch to see that nothing is removed. Let me see—I might as well begin with this room.” *©§ op! stop! This shall go no further. me a receipt for what is due.” Kelley at once extracted a receipt from his pocket, and she handed him a roll of bills which counted up the exact amount. » “Now, sir, can I be rid of your presence, that your errand is done?” she demanded haughtily. ‘Most assuredly you can!” he replied, ‘ al- though I could almost wish you had not paid the rent. I’ve an innate curiosity to explore the place where poor Ned Shannon lost bis life, However, I will postpove the matter until an- other time. I will bid you adieu!” The sound of carriage wheels halting bef-re the door, caused ber to start and grow pale. “Quick!” she gasped, hurrying Kelley forci- bly out into the hall, ‘You must make your exit by the back way!” She pushed him through the hall into a rear dining room, where a burly negro was loung- Give “Tom!” she said, excitedly. ‘ You see that this gentleman makes bis exit by way of the rear alley. Mind now!” - She then flitted away, closing the door after her. Tom arose, importantly. “Right ‘long froo de rear, boss, Git out, gab!” be ordered. But Kelley offered not to stir. Instead, he quickly drew a revolver in one hand, and a ten- dollar note in the other, and exhibited it in plain view. “‘ See here, nigger; I’m not going an inch out of this house at present. D’ye want that money to make you sit down there and be as dumb and inactive as a mule, or will you have the contents of this revolver?” A*Git out! Go ’way dar! None ob youh fooliw’ roun’ dis house! Jes’ you pick K your feet an’ trabble, or Tl frow you out. I’se not ‘“fraid ob no weapings, ’ca’se ] know you dasn’t sboot, heer. 1 doesn’t take no money, but I does perlitely inwite you into de back yard, an’ swear to sorgham I’se gwine make a beap lot trouble fo’ you, Guess you don’t know dat I’se a brudder ob Black Sam, de slugger?” **T don’t care who youare, See that—I’m a detective! Now, will you act sensible or net?” “My orders am to show you out, sah!” “ But I won’t go.” ** Den I fro’ you out!” The negro, who was a very giant in size, made a sudden and remarkable spring forward, _and it seemed as if he was bound to clinch with Kelley; but with lightning quickness. the con- ~mable’s iron fist shot out with terrible forces, » and caught Thomas on the neck under the right sar, and down the darky went, to the carpeted Aor, heavily. _ No noise resulted, and seeing the back yard from the window of the room he dragged the senseless form out and dumped it there insensi- bie—the territic blow having knocked the darky clean out. Then Kelley glided back toward the parlor in the confident expectation of “ hearing something to his advantage.” CHAPTER Il. YOUNG FLOYD'S SECRET, Lzt us follow the footsteps of Dan Hickey, for, res sless as 2 panther, he did not long re- main’ ¢ their rendezvous after Kelley had de- A suspicion that some evil might befall young —— a oe pene Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Sleuths of Philadeiphia. Dee eee ee — Floyd sent him at once to the great woolen goods warehouse of Joshua Banker, in Kensing- ton, a northern portion of the city. It was after six o’clock when be reached the warehouse, and the bands had all departed for their homes, except Fioyd and the janitor, who were standing on the steps engaged in conver- sation. Hickey waited ata respectful distance until Floyd came down to the street, when be ap- proached closer and tipped his hat. ‘‘Excuse me, sir, but bave I the honor of meeting Mr. Ernest Fioyd?” ‘‘ Floyd is my name, sir,” the head clerk, or more properly, the business manager replied, promptly. ‘‘ Do you wish to see me?” ‘*T would like to bave a brief interview with you—yes, sir—if you can spare me the time.” “ Very well; walk inside. I have but a few moments’ leisure, but will place them at your command.” He led the way into the office, closed the door, and they became seated. ‘‘ Now, sir, if you will be brief, it will oblige me, I have an uncle very ill and also an errand to perform in his behalf.” ‘So Iam aware. I accidentally overheard your conversation with Jack Fallon this afier- noon. Allow .me to introduce myself—my name is Dan J, Hickey.” St Hickey! Oh, you are the clever teacher of sparring?’ ‘‘The same; also this,” and turning up the ie of his vest he revealed a gold detective’s badge, Ernest Floyd started, grew pale and uttered a little gasp. ‘*A detective—you! I never knew this be- fore. What do you want with me?” “Nothing more than a confidential interview, in which [ expect you to give all the informa- tion you are able to do.” ‘‘T fail to understand what you are driving at, sir.” ‘You will become gradually enlightened as I proceed. It has come to my. observation in the ast few hours that your uncle, your cousin elle and yourself are likely to become en- tangled in the meshes of an intricate scheme, which may, or may not, involve you ina great deal of trouble.” ‘‘Indeed! Who is at the bottom of this scheme you hint at?’ Es Ono who isnot over fond of you, I calcu- te. ‘¢- You mean Jack Fallon?” “ Possibly, He has, undoubtedly, a band in the matter, but you know we can’t always judge on first indications, There may be others in the background who are using him as their instrument.” “True. But go on.” : ‘““ Well, I believe there’s deviltry brewing ani my profession of detective demands that I should investigate the case and right what wrongs I can. Now, I want toask you some brief questions, and you will consult the inter- estof yourself and those you esteem as relatives by giving direct answers. Jvushua Banker is reported to be dying?” * He is,” “Of what malady?” “Supposedly an inward cancer, although none of the medical fraternity thus far sum- moned feel satisfied as to whether it is a cancer or not.” ** How long has he been ill?” “« He has complained of an inward trouble for three months, but it is only within the past three days that he has been bed-ridden and con- sidered dangerous.” ‘Who are the members of his household ex- clusive of yourself?” ‘‘A young negro girl, Kitty, the maid of all work, and Butler, my uncle’s attendant.” ‘* What sort of a man is Butler?” “Quiet, close-mouthed, and dewoted to his master, a man of forty, and ‘tis said a beon companion of uncle, since boyhood.” ** What of Kitty?” ; ‘* | know litte about her, but my impression would be that she is crafty, subtle, and possi- bly revengeful.” “Your opinion coincides with mine, Does Jack Fallon visit the Banker residence?” . ‘Not at all, He lied, when he said, this afternoon, that he had been there. He is em- phatically denied admission to the house,” “You enjoy your uncle’s confidence?” “To a certain extent, yes. He is not a man to reveal all his affairs to any one.” ‘You understand he has made bis will?” “I do, At least, a lawyer was summoned, and I judge it was to do the job.” “Then, do you know who this lawyer is?” i] **T do not, nor can I find out.” “Tf a will was drawn, who witnessed the signature?” **Two men accompanied him, I believe.” Hickey took a book from his pocket, and wrote in it, for several minutes, * Now, then,” be said directly, “how do the books of the establishment stand, to date?’ ‘* Something wonderful to say, they could he in no better state. I have labored hard, and to-night there is not exceeding ten thousand dollars standing out, all of which is amply se cured, the stock is paid up, and inventoried, and the bank account tallies cent for cent with the books, from the bour 1 took charge.” s Hickey looked at the young man, in admira- on. ‘“Now, about this daughter of Banker's. You know her?” ‘*T have met her!” ‘“What are your relations toward one an- other?” Floyd did not answer, immediately. His gaze was bent upon the floor, bis face was pale, avd he seemed agitated by unusual emotion. Hickey watched bim keenly. He saw that he had stumbled upon another secret. What might it not amount to? “You will excuse me!” Floyd stammered, looking up confusedly, a moment later, ‘‘I occasionally have these spells.” ‘* Well, the best way for you to cure them, I should judge, would be to select the proper weapon, and pop—the question, Come! out with, it! I must Neat all or nothing, in this case, “Sir, can I trust you, with what I have hitherto held as a dead secret?” ** You can.” “Then, I will explain, Two years ago, the past Spring, I returned bome to my father’s country seat, near Haverford Coll ge, after an absence of two years in the West. On my ar- rival, I met one of the most charming of young ladies, whom my good parents introduced to me as my cousin, from Philadelphia—Miss Belle Banker. Of course I was delighted to meet ber, and to bave a lively companion with whom to pass away tbe dull summer days. Our acquaintance soon ripened into friendsbip, and irom that into love. I fairly worsbiped her, and she seemed to reciprocate my affection. ‘* Autume arrived, I resolved to come to the city to try my luck, and oneday proposed mar- riage to her, and told ber of my resolve. She approved my resolution, but preferred to wait awhile before marrying. I would not hear to this, and she finally consented to marry me on these conditions: After we were wed, eae to goto the city. and apply fora position in un- cle’s employ, and after I had won his favor, she would come forward, and we would declare,our union, I was uever to mention her name, fer fear uncle would be —— against me. After we were declared man and wife before him, I previously baving won bis confidence, she was positive and sure that everything would be all right. “Well, we were merried secretly, and after a short honeymoon | came here, and was wel- comed into uncle’s employ at a good salary. I worked hard to please and succeeded, ‘One evening, a month after I came here, he brought a beautiful girl into the parlor and in- troduced her to me as my cousin, Belle. Great God! you can never know my feelings, sir, when a glance discovered to me thatshe was not the woman Ihad married! They were as like as two peas—I doubt if the whole world could pro- duce two girls more alike—yet, from the instant she entered my presence, that night, I knew she was not my Belle! ‘‘ What happened next I do not know, more than that weeks later 1 arose from a bed of sickness, a mere wreck of my former self. De- lirium fever I bad had, I was told.. “fT have a faint recollection that during my sickness this queenly girl was my nurse, but when I arose to be about again she was gone. I did not ask where—I did not dare to; and, best of all, uncle never questioned me. If I betrayed anything in my delirium, I was never made the wiser for it, to this day. “‘Have you never heard from the false Belle Banker?” ‘‘ Never, further than that I understand she left the farm about the time my uncle’s daugh- ter came home. In the past year uncle has shown me several of Belle’s letters, written from boarding-school. She always inquires about my bealth, but that’s all.” “ And this is the girl you are going to meet to-night?” ‘IT suppose so. I’d rather be shot than meet
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ee ———— ber, but it is uncls Joshuu’s wish, and that ts | my purse et a private law 10 uc.” Bheney fauzhed. “If you ure as shy well understand your feeliugs. my chum, Kelley, attend to ’em. of th> sex as lam, Tecan 1 generally les ” ‘Well, L guess you will have to excuse me now. lk stall have barely time to attend to what 1 want to.” “Very well. This is altogether a deeper case than L anticipated, and the depth is nos reached yet. Butif Kelley, Hickey & Co. can’t do the job up fine, no one else can. A few more ques- tions and you can go, Do you have access to your uncle’s room?” “At alltimes. I generally go in and stay with him while Butler gets bis meals,” ‘Very well. Do you feel positive you can trust me?” “Tf I hadn’t I would not have to:d you what I have.” “‘Can you go homs before supper?” “That is my intention.” ‘* What is your influence with Butler?” ** He thinks a great deal of me.” ~~ “‘Goed! Now will you do me a favor?” = 6a,” “Then wait here five minutes.” He burried duwn the street and disappeared around the first corner. In five minutes be was back, and gave Floyd a small vial, ‘Give that to Butler!” he said, “and order him to admivister a teaspoonful to the patient, and to see toit that nothing else except water passes his lips to-night!” ‘* What is it for “To make bim vomit!” Floyd looked pale, and fairly staggered. “My God! you do not suspect poisoning?” he gasped, “Doas I have told you, and we will see how the patient feels to-morrow!” Dan answered, eurtly. ‘Be off now, or you will be late, Vl aaa again.” e then boarded a car, and rode away, leav- ing Ernest, for the moment too astonished to act. While Hickey chuckled to bimself. Sam Severn, alias S:wer 81m, did not have far to shadow Jack Fallon, after he left Ridg- way pier, for the schemer went at once to the residence of Lucille La Verd, on Pine street, where be was admitted without delay. ’ Sam watched bis entrance, from across the street, with a speculative squint of one eye, as he propped bimself up on a marble carriage block. ; “*S5 that's where Jacky slings forth, eh?” be muttered. ‘* That’s the crooke shebang w’at K liey’s bin scentin’ fer some time. Axerdently heerd one o’ Miiler & Sharkey’s men speak o’ it t’othber day. "Pears like every one ’spects ther place, since Shanvon got killed there. Wonder what Jacky’s lay is thar? S'pose I'll have to hang out here till he comes ou.” few minutes afterward a person cams rap- idly up the street, and Sam, with an eye to business, arose to his feet, box in hand; but the moment he saw what was coming, be sunk back again, with a sniff of disgust. ‘The new-comer was of that animated species of humanity which it has p.eased the people to eall * the dude.” He was attired in the tightest of tight cloth- ing, and laced with corsets; bis sallow counte- nance was adorned with a gosling mustache; his bair was banged over his forehead, and an eye- lass over one eye completed his **dude” make- up, unless we «x ‘ept the silk tile he wore, the lavender kids, and @ poodls-dog he led by a String. He cast a supercilious glanco at Sewer Sam @8 he approached, and was about passing, when the suddenly chanced to remember something, ani paused, ““S-e heah, youngster! How much will you wharge tc dlack me up?” be asked, with an af- fected yawn, “Charge a quorter to high-toned gents as kin afford tt,’ Sim replied. *“*Orter ax more fer a.umber “levens, ’ca’se they sin’t goin’ ter re- dooce ther revenue on blackio’; but you look purty two-turee, 80 I'll ease'up on ye, and say a quarter.” “But, my deah sonny, you don’t weally take ume ty be so green] 1 newah pay more than five cuts at avy own summer wesidence in West Pailad=bpbia.” your quoit; Pll give a “All right! Put out dea, 1 was just going to ex- mirror finish.” * But, sonny, wks that J was so u fortunate as to blow in pee | | / ‘ Sam replied, putting away bis brushes. ter tackle somebody as hain’t bad a job for a | ] profit by it. week.” “You saucy boy! I'vea mind to set my dog on you!” “Ye don’t call that a dorg, do ye?’ Sam queried, with a snort of laughter. “ Why, that’s nothin’ but a young skunk!” ‘‘Tfow dare you, sir? V’ll have you know who you are saucing! I am George Agrippus Imlay, of West Philadelphia, and one of the bloods, too. Now, sir, you must apologize!” “How are ye, blood? Me apolergizs, an’ toa sick lookin’ dude like you? Waal, | guess not! Ef ye want them dirt-disturbers polisned up so ye can see yer conscience in’em, why, give us a nickel, or else waltz off, an’ let the wind blow ye away.” The dude was about to make some angry re- tort, when a window of the house across the street was thrown up, and a voice called out through the inside blinds, in French: * Away! away! What are you about? To the tryst!” Imlay made no sign that he understood what was ssid, but gave a black scowl at Sewer Sam and hurried on up the street, Sam started after him, with a prolonged whistle of surprise. CHAPTER IV. THE ABDUCTION. Let us return and follow the movements of Kelley, whom we left in Lucille La Verd's resi- dence, Leaving the kitchen after dumping the sense- less negro int. the yard, be crept toward the parlor door as noiselessly as a cat, and there, dropping to the floor, listened, eager to know who Lucille’s visitor was, and what was his errand, At first there was no audible sound within the parlor, but finally Lucille spoke, “T bardly expected you to-day, sir. posed vou weré away at the sea-sbore,” ‘* Little danger of going there!” the unmis- takab'e voice of Jack Fallon growled, ‘* There’s to be as ssion of Satan’s Social at midnight to- night, and that, with other business, demands my presence in town. Mest important of all, is our liitle matter. Od Banker is on his last legs, and bas made bis will. Belle comes home to-night.” ‘“Tnen, after all, we are foiled.” “By no means, There is a better opening now than ever. Have you given Madge the talking to you promised?’ “Yes, and she now sees the good sease of my argument, She will marry you without fail.” *Good! Now, then, in the first place she must understand that there is work to be done, To-night at dusk Belle Banker is tu be met at Gloucester ferry by Ernest Floyd and brought over in the yacht; but she must not come over.” ** How is it to be prevented?” “ Busily, “She will reach the ferry an hour before Flovd arrives with the yacht, [ will be on hand and inform ber that it was impossible for Floyd to come for her with the boat, and that I will take her by carriage to Camden, cross the ferry, and thence home. Sie will of course be only too glad to accept, knowing that her father is at the point of death. Til chloroform her after we get a litt!e way into the country, and take her to a safe place I have in view, where she will be secure,” ‘* Well? What then?” “Simply this. Madge will be in Gloucester when I leave, to take the place of the original Belle Banker. Theirresemblance is too perfect for detection, and Madge can just as well be- come old Banker’s heir as not, and after he dies all our interests will be identical.” ; “Indeed!” These words were uttered by a young woman who bad, unobserved, entered from an adjoin- ing room. A magnificent beauty she was, with a pretty face, brilliant hazel eves, and a mouth of rare sweetness; hair of a light-brown color, and a form of sylpb-like contour, clad in ele- gant attire. There was a peculiar expression of no easy interpretation upon her face as she uttered the single word, “indeed!” ‘““Ab! my fair Madge—so vou have been playing eavesdropper, have * » and Fallon arose and advanced towerd bh’ with extended hands, which she received witu o sight flush. J I sup- gO OO OO OO hia. 5 Pe ec a ame nee ar Ne ‘ey roguery, as long ag rom Ww * Of course it will. All that ix required is for you to play well your part. As soon as you wre instulied we will be married, I want this distinculy understood before we go axy fur- ther.’ ; i “I will marry you as soon es I am rec nized by Josbua Banker as being bis daughter Madge replied. ‘That settlesit. Beat Gloucesster within two~ hours in traveling costume, and I will give you all necessary instructions,” : ‘*T will be there.” ‘There is but one obstacle that is likely to be in the way of success,” Fallem said, porbity, to Lucille. ‘‘You told me once that your bus- vand, Jim, was your bitter enemy, and ever — watching for an opportunity to be revenged. on you.’ ‘True, he is. He bates us both, and perbaps not withoutcause. He came back frem Cal ‘for- nia with a fortune. I wanted a sbare of it, but he would only give me a few dollars at a time, L introdueed him to a jolly set of fellows, and got bim to Fore and gambling, and seventy-— ; five per cent. of all he spent came to me. } this way Madge and I protected our own rights . and to-day Jim Banker is the next thing to an idiot.” Harshly and heartlessly were these words u tered, and even Jack Fallon, wretch thet be was, could scarcely repress a shuader at the wo- man’s callousness. Had either of the trio seen the hideous face of a man, that for an instant arose above the back of a sofa positioned across one corner of the room, they would would probably have done more than merely shudder, The tace itself was hideous in features, it was the expression of malignant hatred upon it which made it startling. It was tbe face of a man whom whisky had made # wreck, The eyes were bloodshot, the heavy beard tangled SP) and matted, and the bair in a Jike condition, » Shaking bis powerful fist at Lucille, the man disappeared behind the sofa to wait and watch, i ‘“ You bardly think there will be any danger Mra of his interference, then?’ Fallon asked, ama iously. ‘‘ Positive of it,” madam replied. “If he should interfere, all you bave to do is to rap him over the head with a bleck-jack, Hark!” There was a sudden end fierce struggle in the hall witheut, followed by curses, and more noise as ofa a ae conflict. “ Merciful beavems! whatis the matter?’ Lu- cille demanded, rushing to the door and throw- : ing itopen. ‘ Quiek, dack, iv’s a spy, end Tom f is trying tocapture bim, To bis aid, orthefele low will escaps.” Locked in a deathJike bug were John P, Keiley and the big negro ‘‘ Tbrow-’em out” of » Lucille’s mansion, whom Kelley bad prev dumped out in the yard, pst it The black bad remained insensible but a few g moments, and with the stealth of a cat bad re- tm entered the bouse, and pounced upon tbe detec- ' tive, who was eroucbing in a listening attitude, at the parlor door, ; OMT Surprised as he was, Kelley hed presence of mind enough to grepple with bis enemy,and they roiled to the floor in a | eur-rike hug, so that, being pretty evenly matcbed in point of strength. it was doubtful which would heve _ come cff the victor, bad they been left to fight it out by themselves, te née Bus the sudden advent of Jack Fallon on the i scene gave ita far different aspect. plied eae) “Jt is Kelley, the detective, and be has eat Mi nt spyingon us!” the villain cried, hoarsely, “Hol bo! this is fortunate! I bave been wearer ad get even with the bound this meny a month!” : ‘¢+He mu-t not escape from here, or your p. : will he ruined!” Lucille exclaimed, eagerly. _ « z ‘:Neither he sball esexpe!” Fallon bissed. L “Hang to bim, Tow! Quick, Lucille, get some, straps or repes!” ‘* on Pe Both commands were obeyed, and in short or, der, the detective was bound, and gagged, and — pr could only lay and glare bis rage at bis captors, ey Fallon then glanced at his wateb. ' 4 “We shall ae no time to tarry here,” be Nan declared. ‘ You strike for Gloucester at once, = Madge, and await at McSorty’s—yvou know . S where that is. When al! is ready you sill be given the cue, when vou are to repair to the | ferry-bouse, and be re.dy fo mr. t youny Floyd, Act well your pars, xis! *” ; ree i ere ak
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is Sess 4 asst tage =e ERS SS: meereteps gree nen. Ya A a ES 2+ — s+ ee rn “over cear,’ replied Madge, * Yon, Lucille, can attend to the disposal of the prisoner, until i get ready to deal with him. Be sure that you do notdet him escape.” **{ will have bim guarded constantly, Jack,” she answered, following him to the door. **See that you do!” and he ran lightly down the steps. ‘And don’t fail to have Madge at Gloucester by at least seven o'clock.” ‘She will be there. Be careful.” Tnen the door glosed, and Jack Fallon burried down Pine street, toward the Delaware, his face wearing an expressioa of mingled auxiety and triumpb, Opposite the “‘ crooked” mansion there was an alley of dark, narrow aspect, which ran back to the next street, and crouching in the shadows of this, Sewer Sam had waited until Fallon came out, and as a consequence, beard his words. ‘Gin’ ter Glos’ter, hey?’ the gamin mut- tered, scratching away at his frowsy head, ‘‘Bet_ a red-beaded bivalve that thar’s a rum game on foot, tho’ Damvel didn't give me any yinters ter work on. ’Spects l’se off fer Glo’s- , tvo, an’ ¢f thar's any shenanigun, an’ I spot onter it, Pll make the firm come down wi’ a@ suit of clothing sech as becomes my figger. Thet aire Fallon luks like a thoroughbred; but he hai'’t got ther pedigree alongside yours for- ever, Sewer Sam.” And allowing Filion to get some distance away, the boy left the alloy, and cautiously dogged the arch schemer’s footsteps. de was an expert at sbadowing, never having been known to lose a scent, or give up a chase, and this was one thing that made bim invalu- able to his associates, and which bas made him, to-day, the youngest and shrewdest ferret in the Quaker City. In the ferry-house at Gloucester, a half bour before dusk that night, a young lady was seated, with a traveling-bag beside her, and upon her face was an expression of anxiety and ain, while there was the red of weeping about reyes. — Occasionally she would rise, go to the water’s edge, and eagerly scan the river, with its myriads of sail boats, ferries and larger vessels; but she evidently saw not tue one expected, for she would speedily return to her seat wilh a sigh, ie was enveloped in a gray ulster, and wore @ pretty bat upon her bead, n face and fizure she was the living image of Madge La Verd; the classic mold of features, the very expression of mouth and eyes, were the sime, and it must indeed have been with the eyes of love, if any other person could have distinguished them apart. Many aimiring glances were leveled at the beaatiful girl by th se in the ferry bouse; but sve paid no at‘ention te any one, her mind evi- dently being occupied by sad t.oughts, for every nowa d then herlip would quiver, and tears would spring to her eyes, Hee impatience would seem to inorease when a ferry-boat would arrive, and depart for Philadelphia, and several times she bulf-arose agif resolved to cross upon j*; then she would abandon the purpose, and again anxiously scan the river. “Why does cousin Ernest delay so long, if r papa is so il.?’ she would ask herself, over and over again. ‘‘ It seems as if they were try- iz to torture me with suspense.” ‘ne duex was increasing fast, whem a clase cab was furiously driven up to the ferry-house, avd a mm leaped out, and approached, He was attired ie the hight of fashion, and she felt helf-sorry and half-glad, when she saw that it was Jack Fallon. “ My dear cousin!” lie cried, approaching her, “how glad I am to find you here, We were afraid you mizbt get impatient, and cross on the ferry. You see, we started after yom on ae Sylpbh—Ernest and 1—but she eapsized, in tack- fig, just off Camden, and Ernest sent me aihore to hire a hack, and bring you to Camden, where he will have the boat rizbted, all ready to take us to Kensington. I teil you, there was no grass allowed to grow under the horses’ feet, for I knew of your great anxiety te get home!’ “Poor papa—tell me of him!” Belle cried, scarcely b eding bis chatter. “He was decidedly better when we left, and the council of doctors were cf the opinion that a favorable turn in bis case had ‘taken place,” God be praised for that!” “(Amen tothat! Fallon said fervently. “ You have the deepes’, sympath you, cousin, ‘ut, come; let’s waste no time. Kelley, Hickey & Co., the of all who know | It’s a long driveto Market’ street, Camden, as we have to go out quite a piece into the country to strike good rouds on which we can make time. : ‘* Why not cross here, by ferry? We could make good time. ** But, you see, Ernest is waiting for us off Camden; and then, too, this hack must be re- turned there. Nevirfear. Isecured the fast- est team iu the city and we won’t be long.” Never once suspecting that she was entering a trap BeJie Banker accompanied him to the cab and was helped toa seat on tbe inside, Fallon following ber. *‘ Now, let ’em go, driver!” he ordered, and away the carriage tore at terrific speed. Belle was cognizant of t.e trouble between Failon and ber fatuer, but knew nothing fur- ther concerning him, save that he had once paid her loverly attentions, whica she had so discour- aged that he had finally ceased *o offer thein. Least of all on such an occasion, did she sus- pect him of any wrong motive, in eoming to meet her, The heavens were deeply overcast, and it soon became intensely dark. This was what Fallon wanted. He waited until they were two miles or more out of Gloucester, when he carefully drew from his pocket a package wrappel in oilskin; thea be suddenly sprung upon the innocent girl, and clapped a larga sponge, saturated with chlor - form, over her face, The package was this pre- pared sponge. Despite ber struggles, he hel? her in a vis3- liks embrace, and sue was unable to move or be!p herself. The powerful drug soon took eff-ct andin a few minutes she lay limp and apparently lifeless in bis armas, ‘*Holhot Who siys victory is not now mins?” he cried exultantly, ‘I held the fall winning hand. Madge goes to the Binker mansion, an l becomes the heiress to the ol. man’s shek~ls, step in, marry her, get con’rol, and live like a king. Itshe refuses to marry me and give me the reins—but, bab! To balk me would be to bro>k expo-ure and get bounced inso prison along with her amiable mother. Hil hal Jick F.llon, you’re a trump, and it’s a chilly mora with frost on the sun when you get left!” Se CHAPTER V. SEWER SAM ‘* TUMBLES.” SCARCELY had the sound of the wheels of Jack Fallon’s carriage died away in the neigh- borbood of Gloucester ferry, when a cab and team, similar in all respects, returned to tho ferry, and appirentiy the sama lady who got into the first cab, got out of number two, and entered the ferry house waiting-room, There were none of those bout at the instant who had witnessed Miss Banker’s departure, and Madge La Verd's arrival, and thus the ra- ther peculiar circumstances was overlooked, We say there was none, but we err. Upon a barrel, outside the ferry-house en- trance, looking dirtier and ragzeder than ever, was perched no less a personage than Sewer Samuel, “ eskwire,” We left him in the act of shadowing Jack Fallon, on Pine street, He followed him to Gloucester; he saw him hire the hack ourside the ferrv-house, first bav- ing a Cetailed conversation with the driver: he saw him nay the driver and then saunter away, Directly Fallon came back, got into the cab and was driven awry and did not return until he came for Miss Banker. Sam easily overheard the villain’s conversa- tion with the girl, but was not deceived. ““There’s a hookey old game afoot sure as preachin’,” he mused, ‘He nin’t goin’ to take that gal to Banker’s at all. He’s goin’ ter take her some’rs an’ shet ber up or I’m a catfish. Never mind; he'll come back again an’ I’ve got the kerriige down. So fur so good. Ef | ain’t dumb as a duck thar’s goin’ ter be further. de- welopments, That ’ere.am the true Miss Banker comin’ home t» s°e her sick pa. Then thar’s Madge, from Pine street. She’s comin’ heer too, Mebbe she’s goin’ to see a sick pa in t'other’un’s place. By 4 meracks, I b’lieve I’ve hit the nail on the ap-x!” Eagerly and vet cautiously he watched Fal- lon and Miss Banker enter the carriage and leave the ferry-house. He also took the driver’s phiz on bis memory. Fie was a hard-looking customer and the boy re- membered of having seen him at a South street concert dive crazy drunk, When he saw the second carriage let Madge La Verd out at the ferry-house and noted her Y Sleuths of Philadelphia. — or marvelous resemblance to the lady Jack Fall. n had taken away, and tbat the drivers were 1ot the same, it was all be could do to repress an exclamation of surprise. .* Jes’ so, by jinks!” he muttered. “JT tumble to the bull racket. There’s old Baunker—I know him, ‘cause he us er indulge in ten-cent shines— —he’s rich, likely to kerflumix, made bis last will, an’ left all ter bis darter, This Fallon aire up ter snuff, an’ aire goin’ ter run the real heiress off inter some prison, while in steps No. 2, weeps tearlets over the old man and col- lars his shekels.. Byme-by she and Fallon hitches up, be takes the reins, scooy’s in the stakes; then folows a ‘fat’ for the evening newspapers regardin’ a susevcide in big -life a forty-kerridge funeral, and so forth arc so forth—to be continued in our next. Phew! what a fly young nubthin’ you aire, Samuel! You'd make ua long-headed President wi’ better Logs an’ more grasshopper chowder.” And the boy dug his bead vigorously, as if to imved his conelusions where they would grow into a harvest of know ledge, ‘“Tuisis the racket Danyel were arter then. He’s a sly slugger, an’ while I kin beat the pumps off bim on ther uvrave'liu’ uv ther ball o” yarn, et tukes bim an’ Kelley to put in ther fucustary executin’ licks.” - He paid his passage into the ferry-hou-e and took occasion to puss Madge, and dropped into a seat a couple of yards away. ; He did not look at. ber, but whistled ‘‘ Over the Garden Wall” in the most approved fashion; nevertheless, he was conscious that she gave him a keen scrutiny, asif sbe were sus- picious hat he was not what be seemed. In order to ajlay this. suspicion he set about procuring a job of blacking boots, While he was thus er geged, but a few paces from where she was seuted, Ernest Floyd en- tered the ferry house and approscbed her. She instantly arose and put out ber band, with a pretty smfie. ‘Cousin Ernest, is it reully you? I have been waiting ever so long,” she said, “On, what a whopper. She'd he boss on & fish story,” inwardly commented Sam. * You must gory d excuse me.” Fioyd replied, shaking bands with her, I cid not get away from the wuarvhouse until late.” ‘“No excuses, please. I most went to hear of pana,” and tears sprung into her eyes, while she stifled a sob behind ber handkerchief. ** Crockerdial tears!” Sim mused, feeling like slinging bis blacking bc x at her.” ** Do not shiny 4 Miss Banker. If it is for the best, and we have no reeson to believe that death is for anv cther cause, we should try and be resigned, ‘Your fatber bas been very ow during the day, but I have every cor fiderce that morning will see bim a greut deal better.” “Oh! bow cheering are your words! You cennot understand bow sad I have been, Let us go, at once,” . ‘¢ We will bave to cross py the ferry, io order to exp dite matters, The course of the strong wind is such as would bardly admit of ustouch- ing at Kensington, in two bcurs or more, so I sent the Ss Iph back by tbe sailing-waster, and we will cross by the ferry.” ’ “ Anything to make time, eir. Ishould grieve myself to death, it I were too late to see poor papa alive!” nd here she burst into a violent fit of weep- ing. bebind her handkerchief, ‘*Be calm, I pray vou, Miss Banker,” Floyd pleaded, ‘I can well understand your feelings, but it will not do to give way entirely, for while there’s life, there is hepe.. If the great Maker sees fit to take away uncle, Iam sure he will leave bebind the life record of a noble men, Of course you would miss him, but others bavg passed through similar afflictions bravely and with resignation, and you sbould try to do the same, The deepest sympathy is expressed for you, on every hand, and with unlinited wealth and true friends, you cannot be as bedly situs ated as many a poor girl. IJ, too bave enduied agreat sorrow. but I have tried by strict ap- plication to business. to heal the wound.” ““{ think I can understand your sorrow,” she — replied, quietly. ‘Then, in mv delirium, I did betray to those around me things of the past which in my rational senses [ would not have done.” “To me only. I nursed you through all and learned enough to comprehend all that you had throuzh, and how you bad been deceived —by whom I know no more than you. I locked your secret wi hin my own breast, end, during your illness, baving formed a liki.g for you that it would have been unwise to allow to grow into a stronger passion, as soon a8 I saw
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2 that your recovery was assured, packed myself eff to school again, although my education bad already been completed, so far as schools were eoncerned, Excuse me for this revelation, but I make it now, as | may never have as suitable an oportunity, and it is better we should under- stand our relative positions in life from the first, is it not?’ and she smiled sweecly, Ernest Floyd nodded, hardly knowing that pe) did so, for in truth he was thoroughly non- sed. Did she mean by her words to insinuate that her station in life now was superior to his own, and that ic was ber wish that he should con- sider it so and keep himself accordingly aloof? So it appeared to bim, and a little cuill of dis- appointment seized upon him; with his bitter ex- perience with the false Belle Banker constantly rising before bis mihd is was but natural that he sheuld expect something a little better and different from this reality. Tnis was the genuine Belle Banker. Nothing could have convinced him to the eoutrary, for did she not know of bi* il/ness and of what ke had revealed while in his delirious state? i He saw that she was not inclined to talk fur- ther ou the topic, and so he changed the sub- Jeet, and the ferry- boat soon arrive |. They went on board, but Sewer Sim did not, He bad ne further desire to overhear their con- versation, or as he remarked to himself afver the ferry had gone: *“Tbar; Pve got it all down pat, an’ my small nogzin’ rire full enuff to bu’st, l’m blamed ef it ain't. Ef I don’t find Danyel or Jona P. afors long it’s like as noo I'l be tuk dovn wi’ tas brain fever, Can’t onload tho’ till his nibs, Jack Fallon, gits back. ‘Spect P.l enjoy break- fust by that time, In this surmise, however, he was not correct, for the cab returned to the ferry, and let Fallon out, after which it drove away to the stables. The whole time it was gone, was two hours, and Sam calculated that not over fifteen miles out in the country, was Miss Buuker to be found, either dead or alive. The first boat over was boarded by the prince of schemers, while his shadow took aivantuge ‘of the same means of reaching Pailadelphia, From the landing, Jack Falo1 went direct to the corner of Nineteenth and Spruce, where he had agreed to meet Kitty. As every Puiladelphian probably knows, this nei_hborhood, though somewhat aristocratic, is not the lightest and most pleasant of a dark night, ani at an early bour, comparatively fow people are here seen abroad. To night the darkness was almost intense, the went lamps seeming to emit but mere specks of ight. f Fa'lon meant evil he could scarcely have found a better spot, anywhere in the heart of the city, to accomplish his purpose. And the desprate light ia his eyes would have seemed to indicate thit be did not mean any good toward tue girl be had promised to marry. Sve was there, waiting for him, apparently with graat impatience, “Did you thiuk I wasn’t coming?” he asked, pleasantly. “J bardly looked for you, and was just making up my mind to go and ex you.” y maa thing I came, then, How is the old man?!” ‘* He touched none of the food I sent him, and bas had tbree spells of vomiting, which the doctors seem surprised at, and all agree that it has helped bim.” “Ten thousand devils! Something is wrong, eo you, y.u have let the cat out of tue * No! no! I bave not. Do you suppose I would dare do that?” ** Like the tigress you are, yes.” “You lie! No one wasever truer to you than I—no other woman would have mortgaged her soul to bell, as I have done for you Do not deny it. I have risked all for you, and if any- thing is suspected or wrong, up at tke house, you can thank Ernest Floyd for it. I’ve played for you, and now you must pay the fiddler, You must marry me!” “Ont 1 must, eh?’ “You must. “Well, I rather fancy not, I calculate I’ve used you about to the extent of your usefulness, and as my intended wife will henceforth sojourn at the Banker mansion, I’li—” He did not finish, but with a sndden move- ment, drew his rigs hana from bebind bim, a and struck hera fearful blow u the head witha black jick, 48 She fell to the pavement like a log, wholly insensible and helpless. He had evidently timed his act well, for in neither direction could he see a sign of buman presence, Quickly raising her in his arms, be bore her to tbe culvert, at the corner, and lifting the man trap, crammed her through the aperture, and she weut down, down, down! ‘There! thus is quieted one dunger, forever, and no trace of the crime left bebind. Toe blow must bave crushed io ber skuil, and were such a thing possible that she were ever again to reach this upper world, it would be as an idiot or a maniac.” He closed the man-trap, then, and hurried away, an occasional grim chuckle breaking from his lips, The next morning, after a breakfast that caused his stomach to swell out like thatofa second-term magistrate, Sewer Sam yresented bimself at the “office,” and althouzh he had not forgotten his victuals, it must be confessed that he had wholly forgotten vbe condition of bis face, head and hands, He found Din Hickey at the office, his face clouded with anxiety. ‘*Hillo, Danyel!” the youth saluted, as he took a seut and elevated Lis hee’s upon the table; ‘* what yer Jookin’ so grum about? Haiu’t hed yer b’iler filled yet, eb? Yes, long ago.” “So did L copped into Grecn’s gallus cafe, on Chestnut s reet, an’ eat an’ eat till tuer waiter be said I’d hev ter adjourn till ther next refrigerator train cu frum Shercawgo, I then finished up on shrimp sirloin, a la mud, wi? cranberry sass, cut bias, au’ ther fricaseed expression of a car-hoss’s laugh! Oh! but_it were scrumptious! The conn he axed if Id her high wine, an’ arter I axed how bigh they was, I concluded it war useless ter hev any conversation wi’ him, an’ s0 we parted, arter I collared a silk handkerchief outen his anterior pocket,” : “Will that tongue of yours never cease to wag. boy?” ‘* Not as long ns it aire atteched to a wagon, boss. But, ter biz, Woere’s Kel?” ‘“'That’s what | am worrying about. He left me yesterday, to visit No. — Piue street, and has not showed up, since!” “That settles it! Thev’va seooped him in. Thet am the place whar his hangie s, Jack Fal- lon, hangs out—leasthow, Irun bim in an’ out of ‘thar, yesterday.” ‘The deuca you did! Like enough John has gotintoa tr p, then; if so it will be tue first time since he bas been in the biz.” ‘Ther best men gits knocked out, now an’ then,” Nam observed. “Ef Kelley’s in thar, they ain’t goin’ ter burt h.m, bet on it. He's too prominent a character, Tuey’il hold him, till they’re through their game,” “Notif Iamany judge. Pil get him out of there in a j ffy.” “Tf you do, Ill resign!” “Why; what tbe dickens ails you?” **You let Kel alone, fer a few hours. If an attempt is made ter get him out, they'll be on to us, pat, and be as pert and coy as bald-headed oysters; Vother way, they won’t tumble that we aire nosin’’em, an’ when ther trap is ready to spring, we’ll gobble up ther hull stock, Jay Gould style.” + A sensible idea, boy, and it shall be as you ** You bet I’m level-headed, especially arter a level meal,”” ‘‘ Well, give us your report, What have you learned?” “Ther bull thing; got it down pat as a por’us plaster. Jest favor Sim’) wi’ one o’ yer Flor de Fumigators, an’ he will unfold to you a tale thet would make a mid-summer’s night Thomaso Cat bow! in righteous indignation,” and after licbting the cigar, the gamin proceed to give Hickey a minute ex: lanation of ai) that he had learned, up to the time of his return by Glouces- ter ferry to Philade|p iia. CHAPTER VI. POISONING. Ir was a rather late hour before Ernest Floyd and his fair charge reached the Banker mansion, which was located upon one of the aristocratic avenues of that northesstern por- tion of the city known as Kensington, Floyd rung the bell, and they were admitted by an old negro-servant, who bowed low to the false daughter, she merely making acknowl- edgment by a cold nod, all of which sppeaed to surprise Sambo; for the beautiful child wo- 7 — man, who had known him since babyhood, had always treated him kindly, and as a member of the family. ‘* Sambo, please show Miss Banker up to the sick-room,” Ernest ordered, “T will awais your return in the parlor.” . “Will you not sccompany me, cousin?” Madge asked, turning to bim. ‘No, pray excuse me, Miss Banker, I will come upafter 1 speak with Sambo, on bis re- turn. Be brave now, and do not break down, as it will only make uncle feel worse, as he is very * sensitive.” **T will try to be calm, sir, Come, Sambo.” ** Yes, Missy Belle.” , And the two ascended the velvety stairs, while young Floyd entered the luxurious wait- ing parlor, and threw himself upon a sofa, *Heigho! what a world!” he sighed. “A world of air-casties, tuilt only to be shattered. How different this girl from the one who hov- ered over me in my delirium, and yet how alike is she to the fascinating fiend who worked. me into her net! There is something strange im all this—something which J cannot understand. I wish I could again see that man Hickey. TI trust much in bis sagacity. I believe there isa foul plot on foot, and tbat there is a traitor in this household, who is worked by others—Jack Fallon, for instance. This girl— Baht There can be no doubt tut what she is Belle Banker; yet I would fuin not believe it. I bad pictured a different girl, but two years often work a miracu ous change in a woman. It will be for uncle's keen eyes to a out any flaws,” Sambo soon came back, and entered the par- lor, with a respectful bow, * Well, Marse Floyd?” ‘Ah! come and sit down, Sambo. I want to speak to you,” *’Scuse me, Marse Floyd—not ‘lowed to sit in de parlor, sah,” : ‘Come and sitdcwn. I'll be responsible for all tne barm done.” The old servitor besitatingly obeyed, evident ly distrus*ful of the conse qvences, ‘‘Now, Sembo, bow are natters? What change has there teen since I ic:'?? ‘None for de wuss, sab, I’se ‘deed an’ glad to say, sab. De doctors bab all gone away, 8A ee dar’s no trouble Lo be feared fo’ morniy , , sah.’ 7 “Thatis good, The vomiting seemed to r> lieve bim?” . ‘Yes. sah,” “Then Hickey was right. Who is with uw cle, besides cousin, Sumbof” ** Butler, sab.” ‘What's your opinion of Butler, Sembof” ‘Dunno, sah—dunno nuffin’ bout bim.” ‘*Have you ever seen any conversation take place betwen him ano Kitty?” * Yes, sah, They freskently hab a chat ab Ge table, an’ he chucks her under de chin, an’ cey’-e orful ca’ful not to let de ole nigger heah wot dey say.” = ‘* Here’s a revelation,” Ernest mused. “ This pious-faced attendantmay not be quite what he seems, after all.” Aloud, he continued; * Where is Kitty, Sambo?” “She went out fo’ de etenin’, sah,” . “bat’s nice, with sickness in the house Now, what co you thixk of Belle, Sembof” * Deed, Marse Floyd. dis nigger don’ know how to answer dat. Bress yeu, she hain’t changed a bit, ’cept_she acts mighty stuck- rn’ big-feelin’, like. When de missy Beever ca lum, she allus trowed ler arms reun’ dis o nig’s neck, whit oh me a bug w’ot made me think fv all de world cat Chloe had come back on earf ag’in. But, eed an’ God knows. dar’s & heap lot ob change takin’ place in de folks, now- adays. as “True enough. Ycu lock up the house, Sam-. bo, and come up to uncle's room,” And rising, be went up stairs, Entering the sick-room rather suddenly, the bed engaged in a Jow conversation, whit thev dropped as he enterdd. saw Madge and Butler standing at the foot ba : Mr. Banker lay in ted, partly bolstered up un pillows, He was a large-framed man of five and fi . ears, and his heavily bearded fece bad a noble nok. even though pale and emaciated from suf- ering. haf He had heen watching Madge and Butler, with a rather hngeotined ed ther ben which did not whollv vanish, though I up when Ernest entered. the young magn said, seating 6. is face brigh zr ‘* Well, uncle, I hear you are feeling het ’ Wimselt by. he q Be | M 1 \
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8 ‘* Yes, my boy gave me, I feei great relief.” cn Have you taken any more?” “TI thought I Base orders to give another dose, in‘an hour,” Ernest said, turning angrily to er. “Why did you not do as directed?” * Because, sir, t didn’t deem it necessary.” “Indeed! You evidently prefer to suit your own convenience about administering remedies, Is that it?” **T believe I bave charge of this sick-room, sir, a3 nurse, and in such capicity I am going out of the line of my business to give the patient anything but what the qualiflea physi- cians order!” Batler responded, stiffly. Ersiest flushed hotly. “Wery well,” he said. ‘‘Since you are scru- pulous about administering an emetic that has already done your employer good, I will re- lieve you of the might watch, and you can seek a mush needed rest.” ‘You will excuse me, young man, but you are entirely too oflicious, for the position you oecupy. Lreccive my orders from, Mr, Benker and his daughter, and shall retain my vigil as long as ii may please them.” ean felt like springing at the man’s throat, but be desisted, and turned to Mr. Banker, “Uncle, would prefer to see you through to-night feeling positive you will be all the bet- ter for {t on the morrow. Is my wish to be respectodt” _“ Certainly. Butler, you are exeused until morning.” _ Bowing stiffly, the man took bis hat and left the room, without a word. “Tf you remain, cousin, I will also, to keep you company,” Madge said, seating herself near the bed. , ‘* Aa you like,” Ernest replied, coldly, He then gave the pati nt another emetic, which produced vomiting, almost instantly, tae ye pd being of a greenish color, A grim glitter entered Ernest’s eyes, ‘* Tliss Ganker, I perceive thut the towels are ail gore,” be said. ‘ Will you be kind enough to go down and tell Sambo to get you half-a- dozen from the laundry” Cannot I ring for b .a, as well?’ “T believe the cau-bell is out of order, ma’am.” Maidgs,evidently doubted this, but as there was no other excuse for her, except refusal, she felt in duty bound to leave the room, against her will. Tbe moment she was gone, Ernest Floyd bent _ forward, and looked bis uncle in the face, “Unele, do youkaow wnat has taken you so near to death’s door?’ be asked. _“My boy, [donot, Lonly know that I am very near my end,” . ‘Possibly. It may ba too late to save you but I am sanguine that itis not. Iwill tell you what ails you—you have been dying by incues by poison!” Joshua Banker gave a startled gasp. * My God! what do you mean?” he asked. “ Exactly what Isaid, I was warned by a detective, who knows more thanI do, He cave e the emetic and ordered me to tests its eff ct, have done so, and you have been relieved.” * Merciful Ieuveu! Ernest, boy, who is the thor of this?” ‘*Tnat isnot for me to say. This detective, Hi Key is working up tha case, of which you ure the victim. An accident pus bim in pos- oa of facts, that iuterested uim ia your be- "ment best dirscta,” “Thank yur for the power that enables me to de my besi by you. To-morrow, I will dis- miss the council of doctors, and get Docror Fitch of West Philadelphia, ani a nurse who “Ido not; neither do [your servant Kitty. But, let’s talk no more, until a better opportu- mity. I shall see to it, personally, that you are cared for. Ah! your daughter is com- Otly dog up stairs.” Bauer do you think of her?” 3 a most magnificent-looking young fady. Further, I do not know of her,” ‘True. Somehow she has lost many of her aay ; t a be trusted.” . | en Then you do not trust Butler?” , ya oul not help ron too! i : p won at, ge entere Maher then: Wite Uns towels a. at as > ate Reg Re eS pple te Se | Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Sleuths of Philadelphia. . Thanks to that emetic you : * The house looks so natural,” she said. ‘“T think I will take a look around it, to see if Kitty has everything put to rigbts.” And, after kis ing the sick man upon the forehead, she left the room, “Send Sambo up,” Ernest said, as sbe depart- ed; and the agea servitor directly entered. Madge did not go over the bouse, She went to the kitchen, where Butler was seated, with a grim face. ‘* Well?” he interrogared, *] fear the jig’s up. Floyd suspects the truth, and I fancy that while I was down-stairs after the towels, he posted the gov’nor.” ‘Curse him! He’s too sharp. I wish the captain would come.” A rap came ap the rear door. Madge opened it, and Jack Fallon entered. ‘*Hello! what’s up?” he demanded at sight of Butler. * A new nurse, up-stairs,” ** Who?” ** Floyd.” ‘‘The deuce! What has bappened?” “Oh! he gave the gov’nor an emetic, and he throwed up, and feels better.” ‘Furies! Does be smell the rat?” ““Tnere can be no doubt of it.” ** Then, there’s but one remedy. take a trip to Davy Jones’s locker.” ‘* Never!” Madge hissed, ‘* Even [ know bet- ter than that. It is not impossible that be bas told the patient, in which case his disappearance would be the end ofour chances Where is that charming counterpart of mine?” ‘‘Sufe in adeserted caviu, iva Jersey wilder- ness.” ** Are you positive?” ** Of course.” ‘Well, that is good, so far. But something has got to be done, here. The oid gent will likely get on his feet again, under Floyd’s care. He is a hawk, andI fancy he has alhes and that we are in greater peril than we think.” “ Bab! you are too ready to borrow trouble,” Fallon growled. ‘‘ Lot the fellow have his own way, in everything. Our victim will not es- caps us. I know of a cunning old French chem- ist wbo furnishes an odorless, invisible powder, which when dusted on tha pillow does the job for: n advanced patient, in two days, It will fix the governor like acbarm, I will send it in the morning. You are not to remain in the room longerthan an bour at a time, and it will not harm you,” ‘Very good. There’s another thing, before I forgetit,” Madge said. ‘I fancy the gov’nor will propose a marriage be:ween Floyd and me. What then?” * Marry him of coursel get rid of bim, afterward.” ‘‘As you will, I am your pupil,” Madge laughed. “I must be going, now, lest my ab- sence» attract attention!” “J, too, must be going. Tl send the powder in tne morning, and sea you wheoit is safe,” He must It won’t take long to Dan Hickey, detective, listened intently to Sewer Sam’s narration, * [| b-lieve you bave indeed starte1 the unrav- eling of the ball,” be said, when the gamin had finisbed. ‘‘ The first was the real Belle Banker, and,she has been conveyed off and put out of the way. Theseeood is the false, and aims to get Josbua Bauker’s money,” ‘* Ye kin bet them statistics aire bang up,” asseverated Sam. ‘I knowd ye’d agree wi’ me. Now, what’s ter be dil? Where's our Alabama claim comin’ in, in bis case?” ‘Dll sec young Floy:! to-day, and form my plans. If the old man. dies or not, I fancy the fellow, Floyd, won’t let us go unpaid, for he’s uare,” ‘* Metbe!” “Tam positive of it. I want to fizure the case so as to spring the trap all at once, and make an overwhelming victory over the ones who sre working the racket. I also want to tte on that Pine-street place, and flad what tis. “Well, have ye got any orders for me?” “No, You can run out to Lemon Gill, in Fairmount Park,.and see if you can spo” any of tbe car burglars, whose case we have on the books, I will jog around town; and arrange my, compass plans, Drop in again towsra night.” . eral right. During the day Ill kill two birds with one skillet. Ther’s a pertic'ler purty piece o’ caliker down Souta street, what dotes oa my beauty, an’I'll go court her up wi’a quart o’ Italyun peanuts, wah at the same time keep an eye out for the jawhawk who driv’ thet kerridge.” _ ee et ne er ‘A good idea, Here’s a saw-buck, boy. If you see him, you may want to work bim. ‘You bet!” Sam smiled, freezing onto the crisp note. ‘‘ ’m jest ther boy ter do thet. If I meet him, I'l] swell his head till he can’t see his own nose. Whoop-ee! won’t I bave one squar’ meal tho’? No more stewed sbrimps or owl’s eyebrows a la mud fer me! I want yer ter distinctly understa: d that I henceforemost eat nothing but roast wevison and poy /” And putting his thumbs to bis arm-pits, he strutted from the cffice. Like many boys of tender age, nowadays, Sam was not lacking of “ bis girl.” Miss Katie Myrtle was the davghter and on] child of a poor, respectable family, that dwelt in ove of the houses of one of the dingy courts off of South street, and it was only by the united eff rts of father, hother and daughter that they got along. Sam had become acquainted with Katie on the streets, and got ‘stuck ” on her pretty face; and his own shrewd ways and prospects were rather to the liking of her parents, wbo gradual- ly grew to regard Sam as an indispensable ad- junct to the household, as there were never any **biues” when be was sround; so from the office he made bis way to the Myrtle *‘ man- sion,” where he found all the family at home. ‘Shore it’s sorry’s the luck we’re havin’, me boy,” Mrs. Myrtle said. *‘ Pat's in bed, ther with a crushed foot; Katie gat discharged till coold weather, an’ ’twixt ’tendin’ Pat end an occasional wash I have to do, it’s a moighty hard toime we have to get along.” “That aire bad,” Sam declared. ‘ Don’t worry, tho’”. I’ve a wee bit laid away in the bank, ef I am a kid, you bet, an’ you sha’n’t want fer wittles aslong as I'm around,” ** Ah! me lad. you're too liberal,” Pat Myrtle exclaimed. ‘' Yez have the heart of a saint, but we can take no more cff yez, for yez have already done too much for us, I expect to get about in a week again.” “ Yes, papa; and then there’s the Pine-street lady, who said she would give me ten dollars a week if | would come and do her housework and keep me mouth sbut,” ‘Divila bit yez go there, Katie! It can be no dacent place as w’u’d be so particular an’ pay the loikes av them wages!” Mrs. Myrtle cried, wexing bot. ‘Vis, Vi break ivery bone in her—corset, if she dares think av it!” chimed in Pat. ‘-What’s the number of this place?” Sam asked, pricking up his ears, ‘I may be able ter give yer a poiuter or two sbout it,” “Shure the name was Mrs, La Verd, an’ the place No, — Pine street, me boy.” ‘*Kerwhoop! The very place, or I’m a cross- eyed clam.” ‘ What place, boy?” “A ‘crook,’ yer know—a place where some kind o' willainv goes on w’ot nobody kno“s on; fer instince, like barborin’ stolen articles, or counterfeitin’, or sutbin’ 0’ the hing, We've bin spottin’ the place, but lacked evider ce er uff ter warrant a raid, tho’ we’re pretty positive our man Kelley is locked up there now. Jest vou let Katie go there to work, an’ if she don’t s'ay no more’n a couple o days, we, the firm o Kelley, Hickey & Co., will see that she gets a six months’ wages out of it!” “Then I'll go,” Kutie declared, Butshedidn’t — . CHAPTER VIL HICKEY DOES SOME SLUGGING, Dan Hickey, soon after the departure of Sewer Sam. closed up bis cffice and betook him- self to Mil> Cleary’s boxing-resort on Vine street, but as there was vothing going on there, he next visited Arthur Cbhawbers’s place on Ridge avenue, and found the little Englishman ‘hat ’ome,” es he expressed it. The spacious barioom, as ever, was filled wit men of pugilistic proclivities, and, being a boxer himself, Hickey was known to tbe majority, and many glances were leveled at bis handsome figure. Ir was well known tbat there were few of the habitues of Chambers’s Champion's Rest who c uld knock the dashing det«ctive ou'; hence, those who bad previously been punished for their temerity in attacking bim, were ever on the qui vive to find some one wbo could make a clean sweep of bim. | net tah One of his most earnest enemies was an ugly- mugged bruiser named Pete Grog n, who was never without a half-pint of whisky in him, and inclined to be insu!ting, On several occasions Hickey had been tempted to give bim a thrashing that he would not soon, ~
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forget; but his respect for the perfect order Chambers’s place maintained had caused him to desist from such a purpose. Grogan bad no money to speak of, but had liberal backing, end was somewhat noted for getting up fights between amateur would-be pugilists, He bad been drinking freely that morning, and spied Hickey almost immediately; so he strutted up to the de‘ective in his usual bluster- ing way and slepped bim on th) shoulde», * Hello, Mr. Slagger! Come down to get an eye put in mournin’, bave yea?” he saluted with a sort of leer. ‘‘Nct that I am aware of,” Hickey replied, lly. ‘‘Oh! then you think thar ain’t no one ’cept a Sullivan that kin doit, hey?” ‘**Plenty, no doubt, although I don’t remem- ber that any one ever accomplished the feat.” “Brag! Why, you’re a reg’lar bunch of bombast. I’m the lad, from County Clare, bedad, that kin knock yez out!” ‘“Ob! you can?” and Hickey smiled. ‘t What have you got that says so, Mr. Grogan?” “Fifty dollars, begorra, wi’ bard gloves.” “No ’ard glove contests bin my ’ouse, you know,” Arthur Caambers interposed. ‘Hif you gents want to scrap it must be with soft gloves,” “Certainly,” Hickey agreed. ‘This fellow has been dinging at me a long time, and so I might as well knock him into a corner and settle it.” ‘* Arrab, me boy, an’ if yez do, I’ve a friend w'ot kin sind ye into the middle av next week, bedad. This way, Jamie McGilligan,” Two men pushed forward, One of them, the man McGilligan, was a burly, low-browed customer, with a prize- fighter’s head and face, and a muscular paw; the other was Jack Fallon, dressed in the hight of fashion. Hickey was presi, but did not betray it, and made no indication that he bad ever met the genteel rogue before. “Mr, Mecilligan, this is the party, Hickey, that I was after sp’akin’ of. I'll thry a bout; thin, if there’s anything left of bim, yez can give him a tussle.” ““Would yez be kind enough to let me spoil the mug av ye, Mr. Hickey?’ M Gilligan asked. “To be sure I would like to do is.” ; “You shall have the privilege, sir,” Dan replied. he money was then posted in Chambers’s haud, and the party adjourned to the spacious boxing-room, Lew Clarke, better known as ** Shorty,” being chosen as referea, At the word the two antagoaists took their laces and began to spar lightly, in order to eel exch other’s weakest pointtber thing, a change of diszuise will be used to-night. Each member will receive at his | residence to-day a new uniform, with pass-.| words, and so forth The meeting will he at the den to-night. Entrance by way of the back alley. Dieses on when you give the raps on eS “Correct! But, where’ll I get me disguise at? ot stoppin’ at no particular piace,” Grogan d ‘“-Tll send it to the Bingham House, All you'll have to do is call and get it.” * At what time?” ‘** About six.” ‘Allright. Anything else? I’ve got to go to Haddington toa funeral.” : “Nothing else, { guess. When the Social meets full explanatious of future business will be given,” ‘Well, let’s shmile, an’ thin I’m off.” Twey took a couple of drinks and then left the | garden, The old codger was fast asleep, apparently, when they left their stall, aud th ugh they awaited a time outside, be did not appear, and they went off, satisfied that he was a bona Jide tramp. Ernest Floyd and Sambo remained with Mr. Banker all night, Madge retiring to her room shortly after midnight, The patient slept well, and awoke at sunrise, looking decidedly refresbed, to find only Maige in the room. ‘* Where is Ernest, Bellef’ he asked. “Ah! papa, awake? How much better you look! Did you ask about Ernest? He is down at breakfast. Did you want him?’ “Tell bim he need:’t zo to the warehouse for a couple of days. Austin is competent 10 take charge. A couple of days-I think, will enffice to end my earthly career, and I want you both wlth me.” " ‘ **Oh, papa, do not give up, but fake courage and try to live, for my sake, What would't ever do without you?” ‘You will be provified for, Belle, for I am not a poor man.” : ‘*] know, papa; but meney could never fill the gap your loss would malke in our bome,” ‘Maybe not, But I intend to see you pro- vided witb a wealtby husbrad before I die—one whom, though you wed bim in baste, you will learn to love the more you know of him,” ‘But, papa—” * Hush, child! I know best. Ernest Floyd is o: eof Nature’s noblemen, and it is my desire to see you man aid wile,” ; a“ ut oS Ernest entered at this moment and greeted the sick man warmly, **T am glad t) see you look so mueb improved, uncle, You surely n.ust be feeling censiderab better.” ‘*In some respects, my boy—in others I am | sinking, Two or three days at tbe furthest, will use me up, Tem sure. And, boy, nowt we are together, I wart you te promise me something. Will you do it?’ “That is ica #08 I would not like*to do, | uncle, until I know what it is you wish me to | promise.” : “It is this, my boy: T want you to promise to marry my deughter Belle, and thus keep the money in the family.” 44 Ei Bonk turned deathly pale, and fairly stag- gered, uf th am sorry, uncle, but I canvot promise ou. ** Why not, pray?” ‘For reasons sacred to myself, Then, too, J do not love your daughter, and could never bring myself to be unmanly enough to wed a woman I[ did not love—she, too, nearly a stranger tome, Furthermore, | huve not, now, nor ever had, avy aspirations to become your heir, What I have in this world 1 desire:te | earn by the toil: f my own bands,” ; ‘You ere foolish. My daughter wishes to please me, and to do so, stands ready to marry you, All that remains for you todo, is to con sent, and the union can be soleninized before I pass away.” ; ' ‘*l am sorry, sir—very sorry, but I could not think of sucb a thing!” ; And the young man paced up and down the room, his face tbe scene of many contending emotions, ‘* But listen!” the sick man persisted, ‘ Ina will, which I made, a few days ago, | made you my sole beir, with exception of a sum of twenty thousand dollars to go to Belle, on the day of her marrisge to you. Now, [ do not want to have to go to work and make another will, as. this plan has been «arranged in my mina, for a year pas’. You, too, T am sure, have bright prospects before you, and I see no why you could vot be happy together.” | Ai a * Nor I!’ Madge chimed in. oie. Ernest gave ber a withering glance, thet | caused a flush to spring to her cheek,
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2 ee Se ae ! ' 10 “Then, you would be content to marry me, Kelley, Hic her, an’ we went to livin’ together again. Ther knowing whut little you: do about mef’ be) werea grown up daughter, too, an’ the two on asked, meaningly. ‘¢ Believing you to be an honorable gentle- man, [ would, as much for father’s sake as for my own,” * Think it over, boy. Do not be rash in your decision, lest you repent of it afterward,” Joshua Banker said, “T will ge to the office,” Ernest announced. “Tvea large order to fill, this morning. Dur- ing the day, I will give the matter what con- sideration it deserves.” And tewing, he took his hat and departed. He repaire! to the office, but after putting matters into Austin’s charge, he went down- towr, He had wo correct idea of where he was go- ing; te wanted to get out-of doors; the air inside stifed bim; his brain was literally ia a whirl, and be wanted time to reflect. He wandered aimlessly ubout town, all the forsneor. If he could only see Hickey! But, Hickey was not to be seen. He procurea his dinner, and rambled on. In the eourse of his stroll, he entered a South street saloon, where two men were cursing each otber—tough looking customers they were, and Floyd bad been there but a few minutes, when they fell to fighting, furiously, and rolled to the fluor in a bear-like hug! CHAPTER VIIL OLD JIM BANKER. Fuoypd bad never been in a fightin his life, un 1 was far from being an advocate of settling disputes in that manner. An. as soon as he saw that the elder o? the two contestants was getting decidedly the worst of it, he stepped forward. “Stop!” be said, sternly. ‘‘ No more of this, or off to the station-house you go, both of you.” * Looker heer, what you lippin’ inter tbe fuss for?’ cried the man who had been ontop, “I’ve a mind to mash you!” **Oa! I guess not!” Ernest retorted, betray- ing a detective’s badge, by raising the collar of his vest. ‘If you don’t want Judge Lud- — to get bold of you, be off, and behave your- ze The fellow uttered an ugly growl, and obeyed. He evidently sad vo desire to get into the. hands of the] «, The badge was one young Floyd had found in the street, a few days before, and wus thus, at service as a peacemaker, Seemg no probability of a further row, be Jeft the saloon—the man whom he had saved from + pommeling, following him, “ Looker beer, young man,” he said, tapping Ernest on the shoulder, ‘‘I reckon I have seen you, somewheres,” Very ers I’m seen on the street by as many “8 a halt dozen peuple, every day,” Ernest pee dryly. ‘ Here’s adime, old man; good- ut the ‘Sold man” shoved it back. * Holi yer hosses, young man. I ain’t no begzar, ef Lama bum. Yer face is familiar, an’ don’t fergit it. Jest tell me yer name. My m mory isa little suaky, but Lallow lama relative.” ; “* Indeed. Why, my name might be John- “Ye lie, durn ye. Ther warn’t a Johnson among the connection. Ah! I have it, now, Ye’r’ a Floyd—old Peter Floyd’s boy. Yer mo- ther, Birah, was my sister !” To say that Erovst «as surprised, would be stating a very evident fact. “8 e hore, what you giving me? You're no uncle of wine.” “ Aio’t 1? Well, ef Tain’t Ml be soused. Jim Banker’s my name, every day ina week. C me inter this ’ere pe an’ let’s bave a chat.” They entered a beer garden, near by, and be- came seated, only to be followed by Sewer Sam, who took a seat near at hand. ““"Spect mebbe ye never heard of me,” the bummer went on. “I were a souker, from early boyhood, en’ the folks they ceased recog- nizn’ me. Finally I run away to Calif. rny.” A faint memory of a wild, dissipated uncle, as pictured by bis father, came struggling back to Ernest, through a vail of years, “T think L have heard of b hao but it is years since I did, if at all,” he conf¢ssed, “Ye, years ago I went to Californy, an’ made a fortune in two years, came back to Chicago, got married, an’ spent the boodle. As soon as it were gone, my old woman bounced _ me, an’ went back to Californy, an’ diin’t come back till a few years ago, when I fouid ‘em swindled me out o’ my swag, made me what | am, aud sent me to an inebriate asylum. I were too cunnin’ fer ’em, however, an’ got out, an’ my day fer revenge ain't far off.” ‘Well, yours has been a strange experience, indeed, if it is true.” é “True as preachin’ every word of it, my boy. A sudden startling thought crossed young Floyd’s mind. “What kind of a looking girl is your daugh- ter. sir?’ The bummer chuckled, broadly. “Ye orter know, young man, when she an’ her scheming mother pulled ye inter their trap, soas to have a gripon old Banker’s property at his death!” “Then, you mean to tell me that it was your daughter, | secretly married?” “Tnfer what ye please. Where d’ye work? I’ve got a few little ; Jans to navigate, my boy, an’ I may be of great help. Ye look like an honest fellow,” Ernest gave him a card, “Allright, my boy. Vllsee youagain. Ex- euse an old tough like me for speakiu’ to you. My walk in life is considerabic lower than yours,” He arose and staggered away to another part of the garden, and sat Gown. Floyd was about to arise and leave the garden, when Sewer Sam glided over and oc- cupied the seat the bummer had just vacated. “Hold yer goats, bss,” the gamin half or- dered. ‘I wanter interview yer, too.” ** You do” *¢ Bet a clam chowder on it.” ‘‘Humph! I seem to create quite a sensation down here. Who are you, pray?” “A kingly kid answering to the aristocratic handle of Sewer Sam, I have the bonor of forming the Co, part of that particular detec- tive alliance, known as Kelley, Hickey & Co,” “Indeed! Well, Mr. Sam, wnat can | do for you, pray?” **Not much, ’ea’se I just had a dozsn, now; but ye see, I kin do a heap fer you. That’s whar the worm turned the fables on the crab.” ** What can you do for me?” “Lots! But, Jet’s begin at the first rivet in the wheel. Hickey’s been huntin’ ye. Hev yer seen him?’ ‘No, I too, have been Jooking for him ” “Then, wait here the length of aneyewinker, while I send a messenger after bis nibs, If my nathe ain't mud, thar’s a heap lot of work to be did, ter-night,.” And away darted the lad, like a streak. In five minutes be was bavk. “His giblets will pedestrianizs this way at street-car speed,” Sam apprised. “Talkin? wi? the old rooster, yer kno’, an’ I couldn’t help listnin’ no more than I cculd refuse a baked apple-dumpliog. Chock-full o’ curiosity, I am. So you’ve went an’ done it, eh?” ** Done what, sir?” “ Went off an’ webbed yerself ter a female spider that were flyer than you were—sp’iled erself ter sll future time, by gitting spliced fore thar was hairs enuff on yer lip ter make a toothbrush. Better you than me, I gota iece o’ kaliker, up street, but she’s got it writ own in ber ’slam book that thar’s to be no min- isterial dewelopmants, ’til I’m at least the presi- dent of a bank, or strike a capertal priz3 in ther Lousvanner Lottery.” “You crazy young reprobate. What are you driving at?” * You, fer marryin’.” “What's it your business?” ‘None; only [ allers jike ter give good "hole- some adwice. Now, afore Hickey comes, to save time, you might as well throw open your throttle an’ let us hear any news vou hev got.” “I prefer to give my news to Mr. Hickey.” ‘Now, that’s what I call downright cheek, arter I nosed out all thet?s known, an’ got my grip on ther t’other thumbscrew over youder ia the corner. Never mind, young feller. You sit right tbar an’ make his nibs yer confidant. I don’t keer a fig, ferI know'd ye was tew young ter fizht ther battles o’ this life.” And in high dudgeon, S:muel proceeded to occupy anotber seat, and order beer, cheese and crackers, Hickey soon made bis appearances. He shook hands cordially with young Fioyd, and then became seated. “Well, what’a the news? Ab! bello! what's the matter with the boy?’ for he now caught ss Sam, who looked ag sullen as a thunder- ciou : sg tn tli et key & Co., the Sleuths of P hilade!n ia. ee? ————— ‘‘Oh! be wanted me to unburden to Rim, and I didn’t deem it necessary, so he got muffy.” * You did wrong. Tue boy is our partner im every respect. Hey, Sam?’ s What d’ye want?” “Come over bere.” “ Cav’t; Pm beer-y busy.” ‘Come on, you young rascal. No time to lose. Dig the wax out o’ yer ears, an’ prepare to digest what you bear.” “ Ye don’t expect that clam ter open out, do ye?” indicating Floyd. “Cert! Sit down, This is all confidential between us. Now, Mr. Floyd, bow aid the emetic work?” “As vou calculated. There’s poison in the case! Two parties are implicated—Kitty is missing; Butler still remains.” ** How is the patient?’ “Looking better, but of the belief that he will not go over two days 1 sent for Doctor Fitch, of West Philadelpbia.” ‘None better in such cases, than be, Miss Banker arrived, safely?” ** She did.” “What do you think of ber?” “ My opinion of ber, as at first, is not very exalted !” “* Any other news?” “The old servant Sambo says he don’t know Viegas ae her.” Ae * And the patien **T fancy A is not quite satisfied with her, although he does not adwit it.” * Does be know of the poisoning?” **] told bim.” ** Surprised?” ‘‘In the greatest degree,” * Anything else, new i” “Yes, My uncle made known to me his wist —to the « ffect that 1 should wea bis daughter.” ‘“*Humph! Wants to keep the tin in the fam- ily, eu?” * Exactly.” “ Wbat did you say?” “‘T refused, at first, but on being pressed, promised to consider,” ‘*A wise move. Keepin with the patient.” ‘What, and wed the girl?” “No. / will stop the marriage,” “ How ?” “Never mind. i’ve heen lor king up the ante- cedents of this man, Miles Bu Jer.” “In what cay are bis antecedents connected with s opp g sucb a marriage?” ‘Leave thet to me. Tbe woman in your un cle’s mansion, is nut Belle Banker at all.” “What?” “You beard me, did you not?” ‘**My God! Then she is my wife, as I have half believed!” “Don’t take any stock in that, even if you are po-itive of it. 1 fancy I can prove sbe bas a busbend iviog: who fell into ber trap ere you did, Nevertheless, you go on and arrange for the marriage, for day after to-mcrrow, Go, now; then come back, ard join me at our office at No. — Sansom street.” “But, les we understand some part of this. If that woman is not Belle Banker, where under ube heavens is the true Belle?” “ Jack Fallon decoyed her into the wilds of Jersey, and shut her up. This rat, Sewer Sam, found out the whole tbing,” Floyd put out his band, “‘Sbake, my brave boy, and forgive me fos the leck of confidence | had in you, on the plea that you were an utter stranger to me.” ‘*Let it pass,”Sam drawled, ‘An oyster stew will bridge the bloody chasm.” ‘*A hundred of them you shall bave. And, now, friend Hickey, how do you propose to find the real heiress?” “Tre got hold of that job,” Sam remarked, ““See the old codger over thar, Danyel? Well, that’s the dad to the gal what his nibs, here, married—jest was ’splainin’ it, a bit ago— aw’ be’s the shrimp w’at driv’ the kerridge, the g.1 went in, He knows whar she is, an’ ef I mis‘ake not, be goes thar, to-night. See; he’s sleepin’, ter be ready. His cue isrevenge on the gal at Banker’s, an’ ber on *her, wich I opine may be found on Pine street, All we want’s to find where our girl is.” “* Exactly.” “ Well, bis bulks nin’t goin’ to stay away from her, lony, and I ain’t goin’ ter stay far awa from him. When he wisits the gal, I wisits arter bm.” “ Here, too!” Ernest angwered, “I will burry to the mansion, announce my decision, and. then rej»in you, if you tell me where. ** Well, ef ye go “long wi’ me, ye must Teck~ erlect I’m capting!” Sam observ: Ig en ——
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“Certainly! I am now well satisfied that you are — of leading.” ‘* Well, then come back, an’ fine me at the Glo’ster ferry’s pier, but keep out o’ sight, I don’t cackylate the old gent will get ready to move much afore dark.” After a few more words Floyd hastened away, and Sam and Hickey exchanged views one Boe “My girl, Katie, goes to work for the Pine- street party, and what you don’t learn to-night, I may be able to jearn later,” the boy suid, “Look sharp they don’t trap you, or there will be two of the firm in the boat.” “T will be careful. If you are lucky enough to find the gir], fetch ber to the offiee, and leave her there, until we can betrer arrange for her. Ido not want her to go home, until I take her, and spring on those who would rob her of her rights,” ** Keragt!” Then #1e boot-black shuffled off, and Hickey tenes his footsteps toward the heart of the Cc y- Smarting under the disastrous effects of his tre.tment at the hands of Dan Hiekey, Jack Fallon, after parting with Grogan and Mc@illi- gan, made his way to the Banker warehouse oping to find Floyd there, and vent some of his malicious spite on him. Austin, a pleasant-appearing young man, was the only occupant of the office. He command- ed an under position, and at one time bad as- ired to become business manager, but young loyd had been installed into the position ahead of him. ‘* Hello!” scowled Fallon, helping himself to aseat uninvited. ‘‘I see you are still at work, Austin. Where’s the young manager?” “Mr. Floyd.bas taken a day off, sir. He ap- ared as if he was ail broken up this morning —probably on account of Mr. Banker's sick- ness,’ **Not a bit, Austin! The fellow’s been setting his whole heart on falling gracefully into the old man’s shoes at his death; and now it is pretty evident that he will not be accommodat- ed, he is to'ally off his base.” ky : supposed Miss Banker would bp the heir? ‘Not much! O!d Joshua is too shrewd to let his wealth be fingered by a woman. Of course, the girl gets a proper allowance, and—I get the rest of it,” “ “Empbatically, I—at least, it is pretty posi- tive it will be me, for the old man is down oa Floyd.” ‘What for?” “ Bac» nse he has positively refused to wed the girl, Belle.” *Poew! You don’t say sol” “Bat, ldo. Isn’t hea ninny, though? Bet he is! AJl the same, it’s a lucky go for my otherwise poor prospeets. As soon as | come into possession I shall make some large changes bere. I shall get a new superintendent, and—” * But, why will I not answer, sir? I know the whole details of the business,” Austin ex- claimed, “Well, you’re rather too conscientious to gait me, I think, Still, if you want to earn the - position, in you go as business manager, at a salary of fifteen bundred per aunum,” Austin’s eyes sparkled. “It doesn’t always pay to be too conscien- tious, I find,” he admitted. ‘ What will I have to do to earn this position?” “J will explain. It hangs just on a balance whether Floyd succeeds to the old man’s wealth or J, Should ary damaging circumstances arise against him, that would dasb his pros- pects, while [ would b-come heir, See? Sup- posing an embezzlement of ten or fitteen thou- sand dollars were discovered by you and re- ported to the gov’nort You could easily ar- —- it, ‘Perhaps; but there might be trouble,” “No fear of it whatever. You say the word, and J’il set my fellows after Floyd, and I'll uarantee he'll not turn up fer a year or two. n’t you tre that, his being mis#og, and the money roe too, will be indisputable evidencs against him?” -“Trus. I think I can fix it, There was acash gale a short time ago of three thousand dollars, and anotber of ten, none of which is vet down on the books, I'll appropriate the money, and put the sales on vesferday’s page.” “ Good idea! You nre the only one now hav- ing ace-ss to the bro's? ° * At present—yes.” “Then get to work, and after closing hours Kelley, Hickey & Co., to-night report to the old man, Ill at once set a couple of trusty ‘smeliers’ after my dear cousin. Ha, hal I have the game in ss still more surely than before, you And after he had gone, Austin sat in a long, deep study, occasionally ciphering upon a paper in front of him. CHAPTER IX. TRAPPED, THE old codger who bad occupied the stall in the Ridge avenue summer-gurden, was, as the reader has no doubt surmised, none other than Detective Hickey in disguise, and he let not a word that was uttered escape his hearing. The Satan’s Social was an organized party of blacklegs, and their fame was not unknown to him, or in fact toany of the city detectives. But, so fox-like were their movements, that it had been heretofore, impossible to locate their rendezvous, or capture any of the gang at their villainous work. Datil fo-tey Hickey had never suspected Jack Fallon o being connected with the juil- birds who were supposed to comprise the Social, and now, instead of being merely a member, he was evidently ar.ngleader! After digesting what he bad heard, Dan made up bis mind to attend the meeting of this club of rogues, It mae be arisky undertaking, but it would not be his first risk in pursuing bis profession, He thought he saw his way clear. Grogan’s disguise was to be left at the Bingham, wend probably he would not call for it until after six; so the detective proposed to go before six and get the package, At six the clerks changed for the night. When Grogan came, the new clerk would find no package, but an important letter for Mr. Grogan. Aft-r leaving Sewer 81m, Hickey studied carefully over the plan until he had arranged his course of procedure; accordingly, at twenty minutes of six o’clock, he repaired to the Bing- ham House, on Mar«et street, and asked at the office if a package bad been left there for Pete Grogan? After examination of several parcels the right one was found, ‘‘ Are you a guest, sir?’ the clerk asked, ‘If not, I shall have to cbarg* you a dollar,” Hickey cheerfully paid the dollar, explaining | ie he would probably stop there in a few avs, Taking the package he proceeded to Broad and Chestnut streets, where he sent the follow- ing telegram to Pete Grogan at the Bingbam ouse: ‘‘No meeting to-night. Don't come to No,—; but, | immediately to vicinity of Banker warehouse. Wait there. Important. J, Be “That will «ffectually throw bim off track, so that he will get to no meeting of Satan’s Svucial to-night!” Hickey congratulated himself. He then procveded to his Sansom street flice, and locking himself in, pepe to examine the disguise. It consisted of a Jong, dark gown, such as is worn by Catholic priests, a brown straw hat, dark gloves, and a full, cloth mask, of jat-blaok, provided with eye-boles and ap ap- eriure to breathe through, A very clever disguise, indeed, under which these apparent priests could walk through the streets without a suspicion as to their real char- acter—could evter the dark alley, don their masks and pass into the den, without danger cf exciting comment. An examination of the directions inclosed with the disguise confirmed the detective’s pur- pose and plan of action proposed. The mode of gaining entrances was three raps on the rear gate, and the password, “* matre.” Waiting until dark—and it was one of the blackest nights of the season—Hickey took his bundle and set ont for the neighborhood of the crooked den on Pine street, The house ran back rather dee dark end narrow, which in turn from cross-street to cross-street, When he arrived in the neighborhood of the alley, no one was ip sight in either direction, and he took advantage of an excellent oppor- tunity to diszuise himself. He then entered the alley and groped bis way along tothe gate in the rear of Lucille Lx Verd’s residence. Here he paused and gave toree raps, What + ould be the result of his daring venture? he asked bim- | s-If. He knew he was ventnring into a hauntof | bardened criminals and ruffians of the worst | order, who would not hesitate to cut his throat did they di-cover his identity. Yet, be had gone so far it would not do to re- | treat, for some one was coming up the alley, to an alley, ad is course the Sleuths of Philadelph He wes in for it sure, and the only way was te pusd on, The gate was opened OF some invisible person,. whose hoarse voice growled out: “* Password!” ‘‘ Matre!” Hickey answered. ‘Puss in, Mr. Grogan!” The detective obeyed, A thought struck him. There was a change of password for each member, then, roceeding into the kitchen of the house, he found no one, s0 be continued on into the din ing-room, where three men, disguised like him- self, were punishing a bottle of wine, | “Ts that you, Grogan?’ Fallon’s voice arked. “Shure, en’ ’tis!” Hickey replied, perfectly imitating Grogan’s brogue. “Then, come and join us,” “ Divil a bit, I will, It’s full up to the neck I am, now, of funeral whisky.” ‘*'You’re in luck, Where’s McCarty?” “Dunno. Haven’t seen him.” ‘‘ Well, as soon as he comes, we'll get dcwn te business.” Hickey took a seat, feeling sure that bis dis- guise would conceal bis bein In a little while, arother of the order entered and then, all hands srose, and Hickey followed them down a flight of stairs into what in mo eases would buve heen called acellar, But in this cese it was different, Instead of a rcugh- walled excavation, it was an pe visgp tt fitted up: store, with counters on either side, end shelvirg. The place was brilliantly lighted, and a con of women, cone of whom was Lucille La Ved, were bebind the respective counters, The shelving on one side of the room, was filled with goods of almost every conceivable Gescription, from tbe rarest Jaces and drese goods down to the toys that a penpy would buy, in a notion store. ' There vere also show cases, with jewelry littering in them; there were the peculier tin oxes and striped tundles, such as yack-ped- dlers usually toce through the country, and bere and there a tox elready packed. One end of the counter was packed high with odds aud ends of ready-mace clothing, for either seX. wus loaded with neatly wrapped parcels, with tags attuched to them, and st one end of this ccunter, was a casbier’s desk, which Mrs, La Verd evidently attended, it being vpon her side. Hickey’s keen goeze tcok in the wi o'r scene, ond bis comprehension was equally us qu.ck ap his geze. Tie house that was suspected of being — “ crooked,” was “crooked ”"—cr, more properly the ons that merde it their rer d+zvous an ‘fence were rccomplished thieves, ur it was a heven fer stolen ¢ ods, , Every city tas its regiment of prcfessiona) thiev's. Those n akirg Jdrge boule, sre rot de prived of their origina! title “tli: f:” tle pett practitioners, who pick upard ff with wha ever they can lay their bands or, are dubbed shop-lifters or sneake, ana it is safe to say that of either class of these pests, the Quaker City bas more thao her share, Not a day passes but what the pepers publish: a chapter of sot.beries, and in nine ists pees out cf ten, the perpetrators are never found, The public ask where do all these goods £0 to? Ask your detectives, Tock at your pawr broker esta blishmente, and: your “original misfit stores,” ond be ay prised contemplate the astonisbirg bargains cHere vou, where, for » third real value, you can your wants tupplied. But even these establishments ere forced ta be cautious, to which fact may be traced the origin of the ‘“yrivate supply recon s,” euch ag that which Den Hickey bad now unearthed, How is it worked under the very eyes of the police? For answer, note the lerge nnmbers of . men and pect-peddlers, who havnt the allevs, and in » peculiar short length of time, rick up or dispose of a huge bundle of-whet en ordinary observer would take to be their steck in trede, Of course, the majority of rag pickers must not be included; but the eunni’ g& knights of the long finger have their own ‘‘ prekers and lifters,” and their own itinerant pedclers who purchase their goods at the reculer “station,” and work them off abont the country. Although Dan Hickev was awnre that several — such dens, under various di guises, existed in the city, he bad never before entered one, and he was, therefore, not a little surprised at what— he saw, Fallon proceeded at once to Madam L Verd’s - ll On the opposite ride of the room, the counter } ” ~ +e
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a Kelley, Hi counter after reaching the underground apart- ment, the others following. “Well, have you got matters all fixed up?’ be demanded. Ue Geristny, Beibyitiog u * Certainly. ve D arranged, or wi be, in sirme.” Ke i i ** Then let’s beve the money, as some of the boys want tv get away.” She stepped over to the desk, and came back vith five well sealed and well.tilled envelopes of a large size, Tnege she havded to Fallon, who, after examining them, and distributing one to each, kent one himself. The one given Hickey was addressed to Pete ‘Grogan, underneath whose name was written: “Five thousand dollars.” ’ When the division was completed, Fallon said: ‘* Wow, boys, I suppose you all understand What this will be our last meeting for some time ‘to come, as this house is not a safe place to Operate in any longer. What goods are now on hand have been sold, and will be removed to- morrow, When the madam and I agree upon another and safer rendezvous, you wiil be duly ‘notified, and matterscan go on as heretofore. Watil then, the Social is dismissed.” “What is to be done with the prisoner?” Lucille denianded. ‘‘It will not do to leave bim here, and it will be almost impossible to get him away.” “Bah! Leave him where he is! It is not likely any one wouid find him right away, and if they do, it cannot matter.” “You mistake, He knows much about the Banker affsvir!” “True, I had nearly forgotten that. If he were to get free be might play Satan with me. I see but one thing to do with him, curse the luck! and that is—give him a rap over the head, from which he wi:] not recover in twenty years, Rip Van Winkle like?’ “ That’s the best and surest,” Lucille declared; “but who wi.) do the job?’ ** Whoever I order!” Fallon growled, “if it comes to that. But I'll settle it. Turow out a ‘box of matches, and we'll all pull in rotation. The one palling the last match has go! to go down in the pit, do the job, and will rec-ive a ; ousand dollars for it, This is fair; isn’t it, oys? x You bet it is!” Jamie McGilligan’s voice re- sponded, ‘1 hope I’m atter drawing the last mateh,” Aud the otbers eept the pseudo unted their assent—all ex- rogan, who did not know _ wether to grunt or not; be certainly did not like the way things were shaping. Whatif heshould draw the last match? He would bave to do the murderous deed! But where was ‘‘the pit”? He bad ro idea, anless it was under them, and even if it were, bow was he to know where to find the entrance to it without inquiring, which would give Lim away?! _ Again, even should he find it, it was not at all Jikely but what one or more of the buman wretches would follow him, to see that he did the job in an effective manner. _Auy way he looked at the matter he found himself in a fix, and the ana a started out upon his forehead in drops, as he saw the matches spilled out upon the counter, There was no use of backing out, so he eispoed up with the others. m be aid so he could look behind the coun- ter, and there saw a trap-door in the floor. This eased his mind a little. Perhaps be could mauage the difficulty yet, without any trouble, “Pall Pagal match in turn, gents,” Fallon commanded, ‘“Toere is a thousand dollars in it for some one, as soon as the cussed detective is silenced. Hickey pulled fourth, in rotation. _Qne by one the matches grew less, until but the last one remained, and it was Hickey’s turn to pull! * Pull!” Fallon cried, thrusting the muzzle of his pistol against Hickey’s head. ‘You draw last match, and have got to kill your own pard, Dan Hickey!” CHAPTER X. ON THE TRAIL. Ernest Froyp made his way direct to the Banker mansion, efter leaving Sewer Sam and Hiickey, as fast as a hack could carry him. His spirits were now ina far different state tian when he had left in the morning, even though he still felt a burning repugnance at the nought of again meeting the beautiful hypo- exite who-had already once played him false, en nee ee On his arrival at the mansion, he was ad- mitted by the old servant, Sambo. “Well, Sambo, what’s the news?’ Ernest asked, hurriedly. ‘‘ How is the sick?” ‘Deed, Marse Floyd, I’se can’t tole you. De young missy done gone tell me to ke.p down- stairs, Den dar’sa gentleman come, an’ been shut up in de sick-room for seberal hours.” ‘* Was the doctor here?” **- Yes, sah. He in de sick-room, too.” Without waiting to hear more, Ernest went up-stairs, and entered his uncle’s apartment, The patient lay upon the bed, looking by far worse than in the morning; indeed, he ap- peared rearer to death than before. The room was very close, D. ctor Fitch was seated at a small table, with a small Jaboratory of vials and glasses be- fore him. His brows were deeply knitted, and be never once looked up at Ernest’s entrance, Near the head of the bed sat another man. He was busy filling out some legal-looking docu- ment. A glance at bis shrewd face apprised Ernest that the man was Al Shields, the noted criminal lawyer. Near the end of the room, by a window, sat Madge. Her face was pale, her eyes wore a peculiar, hunted glitter, her dainty slippered foot tapped the carpet rather impatiently. Mr. Banker brightened up a little at sight of his n» phew. ‘You are back, my boy, at last? Iam glad, for I feel that 1 am gradually losing ground. Ernest, this is my attorney, Mr, Shields,” The two shook hands, and then Mr. Banker went on: { ‘Ernest, my boy, I have torn up the will I made a few days ago, in the presence ot Messrs, Shields and Fitch, Wills have caus.d more liti- gation, of late years, than almost any other kind of legal documents, and for my part, I want no trouble over mv property after I am gone. Therefore, in consideration of the re- ceipt of one dollar, 1 shall, by signing the docu- ments on this table, deed to you allof my real estate and personal property, excepting my bank account, which goes to my daughter, Belle—this, of course, providing you wed my daughter Belle, if sbe consents to marry you. I am ready to sign the deeds now, and Mr, Shields bas a paper for you to sign, binding you to wed my daughter, under the conditions named, “It is simply a matter of business, One document qualifies the other. If no marriage takes place within three months neither of you gets a cent of tha property, Mr. Saields being authorized to destr.v the documents, and to hand over to the trustees of Girard Collegea paper which gives that estate everything now belonging to me.” ' ‘* Well, I seo you have everything fixed your own way, uncle,” Ernest said, with a smie. “Do you not think you are wronging your daughter? She may not desire to be made a party tosuch acontract, in which case you would be leaving her penniiess,” “True; but she is willing now-—-ay, she par ly gave her consent m nths ago.” This was news to Ernest, and he could scarcely control his amazeme:.t. Did ti: beau- tiful girl, who had nursed him through his sick- ness, love him?” “Come, young man, be quick!” Shields inter- posed. ‘‘ Moments are money to me.” ‘*Tet’s see the document I am tosign,” the young man demarded, rather grimly. It was given him, and he read it over care- fully—then read it again. ‘“T gee by this that I am to wed your daugh- nk Miss elle Banker, providing she is agree- able? ‘* Exactly.” . a is understood that she is agreeable?” 118 “Then the ceremony will take place here to- morrow evening at eight, when Mr. Shields can be present to close this rather strange matri monial bargain by delivering up the deeds. I will sign now. nele, you please do likewise.” Both papers were then signed, and witnessed by Dr. Fitch, who hastily returned to his medi- cal experiments. He uttered an exclamation es be did so. ‘Open the windows wide, instantly!” he cried, ‘“‘and prepare another room for the patient, I will take sole charge of him hence- Ervest quickly obeyed, and rung for Sambo, | to whom he gave the order. In ten minutes the sick man was removed to another room and closeted with the eminent phvsician—no one else being allowed to enter, During the* excitement Madge bad slipped ckey & Co., the Sleuths of Philadelphia. from the room, but Ernest had caught a glimpse of ber face, and it was deathly white, Knowing that his uncle would now bave the best of care, be made up his mind to bunt up Sewer Sam, so as not to be late to accompany hi im, In the hall below, as he was about to leave the house, he encountered Madge, ‘‘ Where are you going?” she asked. “To attend to some business connected with our marriage,” he answered. “If you are not a dantie for the occasion a bad better let Sambo telephone for one of Wannmaker’s men, who will take your order and fit you out on short notice.” ‘Thank you for your thoughtfulness, bu since I am denied sdmissiou to papa’s room, I, | will go shopping myself. 1 do not weed much,” “The bypocritical viper!” Ernest mused, as he hurried away. ‘‘If everything works right there will be a dramatic scene at the house to- morrow evening.” Instead of going to the ferry-wharf direct, he took a roundabout course, and visited the summer-garden on South street. The hard-looking customer, Jim Banker, was still there, fast asleep, but Sewer Sam was no- where to be seen. : Having nothing else to do, Floyd sauntered along the street, and soon spied the young ferret just emerging from an ammunition-store, “Bin gittin’? ‘heeled’!” he grinned, tapping his hip-pocket significantly. ‘* No tellin’ but we may strike a nest o’ hornets. Are ye loaded, ready ter go off?” ‘*[T have a revolver.” **Good, The old chap asleep?” * Hoe was a bit ago.” “Then let’s go git them Lundred plates of oysters ye remarked about. ‘Tell ye, a feller wants ter enter Jersey on a full stc mech, or them frogs will jest yell ‘surlcin! surlom! in yer ear, till ye can’t remember ye had a meal in a month.” Accordingly they adjourned to an oyster sa- loon opposite the garden, and Floyd ordered the waiter to give the young deteciive what oysters he could eat, ‘Don’t cackerlate the old bulk will get under sail much ’fore dark,” the gamin remwerked, ‘and [ don’t know but a feller might as well make it pleasant fer the bivalves as ter set around doin’ notbin’.” And as plateful after plateful disappeared with astonishing repidity, Ernest covld but wonder what sort or species of a gou: mand he had agreed to back. It was*indeed growing dark when Sem Jeaned | back with a sigh end wiped his mouth, whale he looked wistiully at the clock, “lm afraid I sha’n’t bave time to makea good square meal this time, but we'll make up for the deficicncy when we have more leirure, he said, as the waiter banded Krnest a check fortwo dollars and a half. ‘ Hal there goes his nibs, now!” Banker bed left the gsrden, and was burry- ing rapidly awey toward the Delaware, na couple of minutes Ssm end E:nest were following bim at an unsuspicious distence. | In balf an hour the trio were atoord the ferry- boat for Gloucest\r, but our two «tedewers were careful to keep cut of sight of the bum- mer, who was now evidently as soler as a judge. ; At Gloucester they left the bcat bebind bim, and dogged him at a res; ectful distance, The intense darkness ttat had by this time fully settled over the earth rendered it easy to keep closer to him, hov ever, than would bave otber- wise been prudent, Streight out of town into the country went the mon, eta gait which at Jeast proved that he had h:d cxperence as a pedestrian, - When the town wes a mile bebind, he pau-ed suddenly and locked back. The two pursuers bad taken to cover in the nick of time. The hummer ¢id not move for nearly ten minutes, but contirued to look Intently buck. ‘*‘ Smells a mice!” Sam muttered. * We shalk have to keep among the darker shadows, I allow.”: The man finally went on, The pursuers waited until they could berely. discern him in the distance and then took up tbe trail. He finally disappeared altovether. ** Wecanrenew steam now,” the bey said. In a short time rapid walking broug»t them once more in sigbt of bim. Thus continued the journey for two hours, when he again disappesred. Five minutes later the pursuers came fo @
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— cross-road leading intc a wild bushy tract of country. Sam got down and examined the sandy sur- fuce, and made the discovery that Banker had taken the sovth branch. Another hour of tiresome walking brought them to the end of the road, and here was a rough sbanty, which evidently had been built for the use of bunters during the bird season, There was no sign of life about it, but this did not deceive the young ferret. ‘* We will make a roundabout circuit and ap- proach from the opposite side of the place,” he decided, This was cautiously done, and when beside the shanty they paused and Jistened. They could hear thé low murmuring of voices, jut could not catch a word that was said. ‘Shall we wait till he goes away?’ Ernest asked, anxiously. “Yes, We will then have it all our own way. He won’t stay long.” . His surmise was correct. In Jess than half an hour Jim Banker was heard to Jeave the shanty and sbuffle off down the road, Sewer Sam shadowed bim for a considerable distance to make sure that he was really on his vee back to Gloucester, hen satisfied on this point, he returned to the shanty, and, in company with Floyd, en- tered it, for the door was not locked. ‘““Who is there?” an anxious voice cried, as they flung open the door. ‘*Wisitors!” Sewer Sam answered, senten- tiously, as be Jit a bull’s eye lantern he had brought along. ‘** Wisitor~ from the city, mum—so spread out yer banquet. I am Sewer Samuel, eskwire, private. detective, boot black, an’ champion oyster paralyze: of Philadelfy. This fellow with me is familiarly dubbed Ernest Floyd.” “Ernest Floyd!” “« Yes, cousin, it is I!” the young man said, striding forward; ‘‘an’I am here to release you, and prevent a fearful wrong from being ne Sam had the light turned on by this time, and a view of the situation could be obtained. There was no furniture whatever in the place, and Miss Banker was securely lashed to an up- right beam, which supported the timbers of the upper floor. 4 he meetiing of the cousins was a most cor- dial one, and it is unnecessary to state that no time was lost in setting the fair prisoner at liberty. Explanations were then made, which it is not worth while to detail. Until informed by Jim Banker, Miss Banker had had no idea of ths terrible plotagainst her, Fallon having, it seems, left ber beforsa she re- covered her consciousness, Banker had prom- ised to come for her as soon as he could get a carriage. Ernest apprised her of the whole plot, so far as he knew, and what he didn’t know Sewer Sum helped him out with—so that in a short pe Miss Banker understood the whole situa- on, . “It all seems like a romance—such as we read about in the papers,” she said. ‘“ And now that you have found the real beiress, what do You propose to do?” ‘* Marr ou, of course, ’cordin’ ter con- tract!” put in Samuel. “Oh! but won't thar be a sensrtion when we waltz you in, an’ forbid the bans?” * You keep out of this affair, Sam!” Floyd spoke up sharply. “J will arrange the remain- der of the matter.” ‘*Bet yea hundred raw, ye won't!” the boy declared, hotly. “ Hick give me power old attorney to push ther case through, and I want m+ say! “ Well, £ ahead, and have your say, then,” Floyd said, ‘*Kerect, That hits me right where I allus stores away my oysters—right in my buzzam. There’s nothing I like ter so well, as talk, less it ix ter eat eyesters or consumptive clams. But, ter purseed—I have charge of ther case, this division, Now, I consulted wi’ ther boss, an’ vev heerd the substantial part o’ what’s goin’ ou’ up et ther mansion,” ‘* B<actly.” “Well, now, Mr, Dead-in-Earnest Floyd, you gc right ahead, and get ready tew marry yer wife over ag’in. Git yer pound-cake and all.” “Yousg man, be less talky. This young lady has something to learn yet!” Ernest said, growing pale. “In regard to the unfortunate marriage of mv consin and yourself*—oh, no!” Miss Banker cried, ‘ Domy reckless uncle justice to know Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Sleuths of Philadelphia. that be explained all about that affair to me. Then, too, I bad an inkling of something of the kind before this,” ‘‘T understand. You see what a quandary your father’s resolve leaves matters in.” “You say my father may recover?” “There can be but little doubt of it.” * Jest let me pipe in,” exclaimed Sam, ‘You go right ahead an lead she false gal before the minister. Then there’ll be a transformation scene, Black Crook style. The firm o’ Kelley, Hickey & Co. will then walizin, fetcbin’ Miss Banker, here, an’ a heap of-other evidence; an’ instead o’ nuptial band., there’ll be st: el bands. Savy? We've got it all cut an’ dried. Arter we collar the coves, you an’ Miss Belle heer can fix up yer affairs to suit yerselve-—we o’ the perfesh hev nothin’ ter do wi’ sich hke.” ‘*The boy is sensible,” Belle Banker smilingly remarked. ‘'I want tosee this woman public- ly shamed, if there is any sbame in her.” ° “But, by what right can the marriage be forbidden?’ ‘Leave that to Danyel,” grinned Sewer Sam, ‘Tt bsppens that Miss Madge La Verd, alias Banker, had several husbands before she tackled you, and one of ’em was yer uncle’s valet—Butler!” ‘* Boy, you are mistaken!” **Nary. Danyel has proof!” “Thank God! Then, I am free,” ‘As a clam, An’ now, as it are useless ter purseed back to Phila, afore folks is up, J’m go- in’ ter tumble off fera nap. An active brain of ther dimensions of mine must hev sleep and oysters,” And in ten minutes the gamin detective was snoring like a trooper, No sleep visited the eyes of Ernest and Belle, for they finished the right out, in conversation. What was the theme, or of bow tender a nature it was, is not for us to say, but by the time Sam awoke, at daybreak, I believe it was settled between them, that the minister who came to marry Ernest to Madge Bunker, should not be cheated out of his fee. Half an bour after sunrise, the trio set out, on foot, for G outester. CHAPTER XI. HICKEY MAKES TERMS, Durine his caroer asa detective, Hickey had been encompassed by great danger, ina number of instances, but be could not remember that he had ever been caught in a much worse fix than he now was, The words uttered by Jack Fallon, which ended a recent chapter, apprised the detective that he was recognized, cunning as he had been. ‘Oh! you’re a real jewel!” Fallen gritted, snatching away the mask. “ You thougbt your telegraph biz would fool Grogan, didn’t you? but, as it happens, Grogan had his eye-teeth cut, years ago. Your telegram made a good taper for him to light bis pipe with,” ‘Did it?” f “To be sure it did, TI suspected you, up on Ridge avenue, and told the boys to look out for sharks!” “Well, you caught what you were fishing for, I suppose?” “Why, certainly, and a rarer prize a band of long-fingered sports couldn’t ask to catch. You’re a real prize, Daniel, and we intend to treat you as such.” “Tam glad to hear that. It isn’t often I fall in witb such a pleasant gathering, S'pose you haven’t anything to drink about the shebang?” “If we have, we fondle and caress it our- selves!” with a coarselaugh. ‘You don’t sup- pose we treat our enemies to drinks?” * Enemies, probably not—friends, certainly, you should, **Oh! then, you’re a friend?” “T’m a friend, when it pays to be a friend,” ‘Bah! none of that blarney! You've got into the wrong crowd to do any eye-closing business. There’s no dead men in the gang. We're all up to the times,” “Tf I hadn’t believed that, to-night wouldn’t have caught me here.” “Ot! I suppose not. What did you come bere for? A man of your repute would natural- ly be credited with better sense.” “Tcame here for two purposes: one was to make money—tbe other to vheata rival out of | his prey.” Fallon pricked up bis ears, - “ he responded. ‘* Of course you don’t!” with a sarcastic smile, “‘T even doubt if J can make you believe that, but for me, you will be i i before day- ic Raedoorebeng lk Seabed | minutes a grim silence reigned, | ground epart T guess I don’t quite pick up your meaning,” | 18 — “ Ha! ba! that would be funny, if you could stuff that down us.” ‘Think so, if you like; but before you draw any positive conclusions, will you let me give you a few pointers?” ; “Sail ahead! Vil reef you, when I think you have sufficiently exercised your lungs.” “Weil, to begin with: 1 suppose you are aware that there are several branches of the detective business in town—that is, several dis- tinet firms or companies.” __ . Y; s, | am perfectly informed on that oint.” , ‘You know that the police and city force, operated by the city government, is the strong est. ‘* Certainly.” ‘You are aware that through the et re of tiis body, it bas been necessary for reepor ble citizens to encourage private detective agencies, from the fact that more satisfactor results are invariably obtained from this source,” ‘Go on,” . ‘“Well, rmong this latter cless, Miller & Sharkey buve for a time stcod first 6n the dist,” You bet.” * Pinkerton basa few mn prowling arcu’ a but men of your stamp pronounce them N. G{” A chuckle told the shot bad hit, “The Chicago Secret Service came next; then the Merebant and Tradesmen’s force,” “* Correct.” “Then, all of a sudden, a private little snap, knownods Kelley; Hickey & Co., was ment é The name did not wither and die, but grew like a thistle, even as the firm thrived. The other forces noticed a loss of busivess— Miller & Sharkey, in particular, They did notdo a tenth of their usual work, Perbaps it was owing to the decrease of crime—perbaps owing to the existence of K. H & Co. Anyhow, a spirited rivalry sprung up berween tne two forces, and has grown to be something like a feud.” iy Yes?” ‘As I tell you. All’s fair in love or war, ’tis said, and I dare presume that either side woule prefer to let a criminal escape, rather than that the rival side should have the glory of securing f the prize.” Fallou was deeply interested. Hardened, des- perate man of the world though he was, the persuasive tongue of the devective was beginuing to tell upon bim. “Now, understand me,” Hickey went on, his tone stern, bis face aglow, and his eyes flashing, - “1am not giving you blarney. I’d hang the lot of y'u to-morrow, if profifable. But, I don’t believe it is. Vl acknowledge that you are skilled rogues; otherwise I should not speak as freely asI do. I came here to-night, as I did, to secure the liberty of my partner, Kelley. Had I desired to pull the den, cvuld I not bave easily done it? rtainly I could. But I di not choose soto do, Are you aware, Jack lon, that a large reward is offered, privately, to the detectives of Philadelpbia, for the capt of the ringleaders of this gang?” i! **T don’t know that there is!” ** Probably you deubt it?” “Proceed with whut you have to we, At : “Oh! you are non-committal, eh? ell, per. baps you are not aware, then, that this place bas been under detective surveillance for the past ten days, both under the auspices of Miller & Sharkey, and Kelley & Hickey.” “Tam listening—you are talking!” Fallon growled, a bunted look about bis eyes, “ Tt's little I have to say, in conclusion, We were to pull the den, ip a day ortwo, Miller & Sharkey are to pu ! it to-night!” ‘Curse you, you lie!” | ; ‘‘Be your own judge, before you are rash. What time have you?” ‘¢ Half-past eight.” ** Correct. are not three persons opposite, in citizen’s garb, conversing together—also a couple of policemen © in the immediate neighborhood. : ‘*McGilligan, go see!” ordered Pallon, at once, The ruffian hastened away, amd for several ent, Then, MceGiliigan came back, . * Toat’s the ticket, Cap!” he answered, “ The fellow is kerect.” ‘* Now, McGilligan, go to either terminus of tbe back alley, and report what you see,” suggested. “Go!” Fallon repeated The fellow was back, shortly, te “ The same as front!” was his report. Now, send a man to look out of | the front of the house, and ascertain if there n that under-
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28 i ’ 1% ~ gcende 14 Fallon turned on Hickey, with asavage oath. “So yea bave got us cornered, eh?’ he hissed, his face aflame with rage, ‘No, not yet. My turn comes next,” the de- tective returned, dauntlessly. ‘You are deal- ing with Miller & Sharkey, now. J am here to free yeu, on conditions, AfterI set you at liberty, you have five hours to lose yourself, Then I shall renew my bunt.” “What is your object in freeing us?” “T. cheat the rival force out of my prey.” ‘Well, you are a cool one. Pray explain how you propose to free us, with the premises surrounded,” “Easily, At one end of the alley, my men are stutioned instead of Snarkey’s. Sharkey’s men are somewhere, blind drunk.” “*You’d make a valuable addition to our pro- fession. But, name your conditions!” “First, release Kelley, Secondly, follow me.” There you have it, all in a nutsbell.” ** Follow you into some other trap?” “‘T limited your time.” Fallon took a turn up and down the apart- ment. His face was aflame with passion, born, mainly, out of chagrin at being thus defeated, whep the game seemed his very own. At length be called Lucille aside, and they bad an animated conversation, which lasted were! sap 7 ickey waited, expec‘antly. Would the thing work? 5 He was making a bold venture, on an uncer- tainty. Tbe men stationed outside, were un- doubtedly Miller & Sbarkey’s, He had caught an inkling, that afternoon, that a raid was to take place upon an establishment, in the same block that night, Thus, be had jamped t the conclusion that a force would be in the eighborbood. be question now was, would he be able to al the purty through, without being halted. Fallon soon approached. ‘* Tt seems evident that we must knuckle under to you, this time,” he confessed, ‘‘but we ex- peg! you to bang to your promise.” **My word is good,” i “Tt had better be, McGilligan, release the isonvr.” Going behind the counter, McGilligan de- into a sub-cellur, and soon returned, accompanied by Kelley, who looked but little the worse for his confinement. His ges: and Hickey’s met for an instant, and they understood each other. ‘‘Now, then,” Din said, ‘‘ we shall h-ve to be expeditious, Tbe woman, and you, Fallon, ean safely leave by the front way, and take your vourse, uptown, The remainder of the rtv we will take out by ‘he rear.” “ Mind, if - are fooling us, your life will answer for it!” “Do asl bid and never fear!” was the firm answer, _ Thev, all hands went up-stairs, and Fallon and Lucille took their departure by the front , way. Hickey then led the retreat through the rear alley, and soon had bis trio of rogues out upon the street. neir debouch upon the street did not attract _ the attention of the other force, and five min- utes put them out of the neighborhood, _* Now, you fellows can go!” Hickey said. “Hunt up Fallon, and tell bim to look ost for himself, for after I get back from New York, I want to see him.” The trio shuffled away, but they had not gone dozen yards, before they were gobbled up by a posse of Pinkerton’s men, who wanted them for burglary. Of this Hickey and Kelley knew nothing. “What did you make such a move for?” Kel- ley asked, when they were safe within their office. “Tt was life or death, We'd bave never got out of that den, any other way.” “The game’s lost though!” Jonn Kelley was a man who would rather suffer torture than weaken to an enemy. ** Those three fellows can be nabbed almost any day; and as for Fallon, the fellow will / pever leave the city, while there is a chance to get.a hold upon t' at fat fortune of Bunker’s,” They concluded to await the return of Sewer Sam and Ernest Floyd, before taking any farther action. After leaving the den, on Pine street, Jack Fallon and Lucille wens to the former’s bachelor Maxters. on Race eS spaatant Caen’ Xe arcely & W was exchanged, u e -were seated’ opposite each other, with & table ‘Kelley, Hick and lamp between them, not to mention a bot- ‘the, and glasses. ; ‘Well, what do you think of it?’ asked Fal- lon, helping himself to @ liberal glass of brandy, ** Just what L have thought, all along!” was the fierce reply. **Tue jig’s up, as far’s this city is concerned,” “Looks like i, Itis a queer thing, this de- tective business.” ** Malic, is a great instrument, very often.” “Then, you think it was on account of ri- valry?’ ** Yes, undoubtedly.” “Yet he will be apt to hunt us,” “True, but that will taketime. All we want, is to see that thing take piace, to-morrow.” It might well be added here, that, after Er- nest Flovd had Jeft the Banker mansion, to join Sewer Sam, Madge had paid a flying visit to her mother, and informed ber of what was to take place the next evening, inviting her and Fallon to be present. “Yes, if the thing works— Dash it I am growing doubtful how it is going to turn out!” Whi took a drink of the liquor, and re- ecre 4 “There is only one way a cent can ever be got out of the property. Two lives must be taken. Murder is a hard thing, Jack Fallon, Wieked, worldly woman though Iam, I would shu ‘der at such a necessity.” ‘‘Bah! you're chicken hearted. A million dollars is worth more than a hundred lives. I een easily fix it up for Ernest Floyd, curse m. Yes, but there’s another—Butler |” **The dumb mule! He’son our side, too.” ‘Be not too sure. Still waters run deep. That very Butler, is Madge’s true busband!” “What do you say?” and Fallon leaped to his feet, in a passion, ‘* Tt is true.” “‘Then, were I to wed her, I would not be ber legal busband?” “ Butler must go, first!” Fallon paced the floor, bis face a study, in the ill humor reflected upon it. ‘* Well, Pll do a great deal!” he gritted. “If you two try shenannigan on me I'll thrust the real girl forward. I’m going, now—won’t be back till morning. I sent Agrippus, the dude, to watch Floyd, and strangle him if a chance offers.” “Fool! Do you want to stop the marriage, and spoil all?” “T’s little I care. I half suspect you two are trying to play me false, anybow, and—” He did not finish, but cpened the door and left the house. Lucille made no move to follow him. To use ay go parlance—‘‘ she had got him down ne When greatly excited or worried, he often had spells, that he bardly knew his own actions or sayings, So Lucile sat at the table, and drank occa- sionally, and reflected. Finally she drew a luge wailet from her bosom, and began to count out bank-bills, both old and new, but nearly all of large denominations. ** All mine!” she said, in a triumphant tone— “all mine! and for it my soul!” Her eyes suddenly shot up, in her head, and she gave a gurgling sort of gysp. Then a pur- ple tinge dawned upon ler lips—her face ex- pressed suffocation. Ten minutes later she lay back in her chair, limp and lifeless, A dusky form glided to the table. Tre money was gnickly appropriated. ‘‘Now, then, Pl turn on the gas, and the coroner’s verdict will be death by suffocation from gas Ha! ha!” A few moments later, and the figure was far away from the houce, where death reigned as the nocturnal attendant. CHAPTER XII. CONCLUSION. Tne trip of our trio of frierés back to Phila- delpbia was not destined to be without note- worthy incident. Jack Fallon had not lied when he said that he ao put the Dude upon the track of young loyd, Buide from the pals who had comprisea Satan’s Social, the schemer had confederates all over the city, so that when he wanted a job “fixed up” he did not have to proceed far to find one of his tools. Imlay the Dude was one of this class, having MR sit i which classed him rather above lon’s other vals. He bad so Ee Fallon something like a month ey & Co., the Sleuths of Philadelphia. before our story, armed with a letter from a noted New York cracksman, introducing him as a party who could be trusted at any responsible job. Jack had employed him on several occasions, and so faithfully had he performed the tasks assigned him, that the Satans’ chief bad put him ov the trail of Ernest Floyd, with the order to tap him over the head in such «a way that he would totally forget himself, And the sight of a hundred-dollar bill caused the Dude, as he was best known, to post away in delight, He went first to the warehouse, then to the Banker mansion, and struck the tiail by seeing Ernest Floyd leaye the rouse, After that he hung to the trail like a leech. It is scarcely worth while for us to detail his movements, but suffice to say that he shadowed Ernest and Sewer Sam all the way to the lone shanty, and saw them leave it with the rescued ‘Miss Banker. Laying bis course, with the aid of a compass, he made a cut across the country, and came out es miles ahead of the trio, on the main road. After beating about for a time, be at last found a sheltered nook, which he calculated would answer bis purpose,as it efforced him secretion, close to the trail, or road, and gave him an uninterrupted view in either direction. As he did not expect them for some time to come, he seated himself on the ground, and drew a long, greasy, hempen rope from bis pocket. It was slender in size, but very strong and to one end was fastened a bullet shaped leaden weight, that would have tipped the scales at a couple of pounds, or more, It was plainly a strangler’s apparatus, and the Dude r- garded it with a curious expression of countenance. ‘The devil’s own arrangement it is!” he mut- tered. ‘I never used it but once, and then I failed—indeed, I never tried to killa man but once, and then [ pushed him upon bis bead iu the street. Luckily, a tough head saved him,” A flood of memories seemed to absorb his mird for a time, Suidenly he started from his reverie, and gazed down the road. In the distance he saw three figures approaching. The time was nearly at band when he must do the deed be bad bargained to co—murder Ernest Floyd! A shudder passed over him as he contem- plated the enormity of the crime. ‘‘T was never cut out for a criminal,” he said, grimly, ‘‘and assuch would ne: er make a suc- cess, If I fail thi. time, I'l] rencurnce the bust- ness, and forever after lead an honest life, cheating no cne out of anything, nor trying to Be any one,” ® grasped the rope firmly, at a measured distance from the weight, and waited, bis gaze uever once leaving the epproachi'g figures, The nearer they drew, be perceived that they were chatting gayly. Sewer Sam+¢upplying aa abundance of his quaint sayings to keep the others in good tumor, ‘How happy they seem!” the Dude mut- tered, ‘They bave not the least suspicion vc danger. It seems too bad to shut off tnas fellow’s wind, just to satisfy the spite of another.” For a moment he glared at them flercely, es if to gain courage; then a softer expression erept over bis face, ‘Tl not do it!” be decided, emphatically. “*Tt’s murder, and it’s against my grvin.” He waited till they were nearly opposite, and then stepped out, and corfronted them. Had it teen his intentien to teke them sud- denly by surprise, he would bave got prand) lett, for Sewer Sam’s revolver covered him, al- most instantly. ‘* Whoa up thar, January!” the lad sung ont, authoritatively. ‘* Who ye goin’ ter lasso, on this bloomin’ perarer?” “Nobody!” the Dudeanswered. ‘TI was sent here. fer a purpose.” ‘‘ What purpose?” Ernest demanded, his face flushing with anger. ‘To be plain with you, [ was sent to traf you to a suitable place, and there strangle you with this!” And he exhibited the rope and weight to their view. ‘* Well, I suppose yon are bere, for that pur- pose, tien?” t “IT came here to exeeute my mission, } nt when I saw vou coming, a minute ago appar- entlv so happy, and innocent of all wrong, I registered an oath before the oo Judge, to forswear all badness, and lead a straightior- ward and honest life. ore, insteaa of ‘
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——~—tie a a killing you, I make you a present of the instru- ment with which | wus to take your life.” * Throw it down, sir, Iam not fond of mur- derovs mementoes. Who sent you on such an errand?” ** Jackson Fallon.” “Thet settles it, As we may need a leetle evidence, in the case ag’inst Jacky, ye. kin walta right along in our deligbtful company, ter Pniledelfy,” Sewer Sam said. ‘But, you will not get me into any trouble?” ‘** lt sae that you are not barmed, providing I don’t caten you at any tricky moves!” Ernest suid, The Dude promised, faithfully, and then the uartette made its way toward the Quaker sity. The day at the Banker mansion was a busy one, to nearly all concerned Ernest arrived home, during the forenoon, bringing in the back with him, a new suit, and a stock of such furnishing goods as he was in need of, Miss Banker had a number of dres:makers at hand, who were busied in supplying her w: nis, and Sambo wasecrdered to put the bouse in the neatest shape possible, Butler, the valet, wandered mechanically about the house, with stately mien, apparently determined to retain bis position, whether he was wanted or not, His mood was like the gathering of a tempest which threatened each moment to burst forth. It did burst, too, about the middle of the afternoon, when he caught Madge alone in the parlor. She was fixing her hair before a great pier- glass amd did not notice him until be was di- rectly behind her, when she gave a nervous little ery and faced about, ‘What do you mean by this intrusion, sir?” she demanded angrily, stamping her slippered lout upon tbe carpet. ‘What do I mean?” he sneered. ‘Why, you're putting ona heap of airs, ain’t youf As if 1. hadu’t a perfect right to enter your pres- ence!” “Certainly you have not. I am astonished that you haven’t more discretion.” Something of his ministerial look disappeared in the flame of rage that ewept over bis face. “So this is the way I am treated, eh?” he hissed. ‘* You don’t condescend to notice me, nce yom think you have got your foot planted ere, “What are you driving at? What do you mean by this sudden outbreak?” “You'll likely find out. I want to know what's going on—that’s what I want to know.” You ask a very foolish question,” she replied coolly. ‘I believe you are quite well aware what’s going on, Mr. Butler.” “I know only what I have gleanei—that vou are going to marry—or think you are—tbis fellow, Ernest Floyd.” “Of course, Isupposed you knew that. It is oi a ye must know.” ain” bith ow much do you ex to n e adventure?” z “ : : ‘‘To-night, after our marriage, I am to re- ceive checks for my ‘father’s’ entire bank- accounts, amounting to dred and fifi thousand dollars,” oy Set J ‘* What then?” “I am not thoroughly posted, but I believe Floyd is to be put away, so that I inherit the whole business ” “Tp order to fix this you will have then to bestow your band upon that rascal, Fallon?” “Yes, He will demand that, If I were to refuse he ~ould mighty quick oust me out of roy present position by producing Belle.” “Then Vm to remain in the background and allow all this interesting business to take piece, and with Job-like patience never make a dewur? That’s the racket, is it?” “‘Your good judement should have saved you from asking the question!” Well, C must say it is a very pleasant thing for me to contemplate, A man, of course, can look on with angelic resignation and see the partner of his om wed whosoever she chooses; indeed, bis heart must thrill with pure bliss at. the very idea, Still,a dose of green- ba zks is often a quieting tonic, [ have heard say. Wh..t division of to-night’s sp.ils am TI supposed to be entitled to? Winter draweth nigh, and I’ve an idea that the balmy air of Cuba might benefit my health, as the doctors down there are DOt sO much addicted to the use of electrica) bracelets as here,” “Twas not aware that it was necessary to | with you, sir. ‘ Kelley, Hickey & “Indeed! You must havea very unexalted opinion of me, then, I see you are in a hurry. L, t us understand each other. It is plain as the nose of your pretty face that we were never meant for each other, and that our love for each other could be condensed intoa very small space, For my part, anyhow, 1 am not pertial to wives of a dozen busbands, and hence cannot regard you as my partner in the future. The proper thing for both of us would be to get rid of one another.” : “*-You are sensible.” “Or course I am. And now, in order to do the thing up brown, all that is necessary for you to do on receipt of the checks is to call me one side and give me fifty thousand dollars’ worth of them properly indorsed. That will effectually rid this country of yours truly, and you will bave perfect and undisputed liberty to bestow your wifely affections on whoever you choose.” She reflected a moment. [t was possible, she thouzht, to put him off until after the cere- mony. bs t will do it,” she assented, ‘* with the under- standing that you leave the country at once and forever.” “That I will!” he replied. ‘It will not be healthy for me in this city much lon ‘er, I sus- pect. But there are so many slips, you know— so many things might bappen, that [ already bave helped myself to ten thousand of the fifty thousand, as I found that amount in your room—taken from your mother’s plunder just before you came here, I suppose.” “You have got that money?” she cried, in hot anger; ‘‘ you been in Cy room?” “‘Certainly—in my wife’s own room!” and he smiled liké a Mephistopheles. She evidently was on the point of a terrible outburst of passion, when he glided from the parlor, saying, as he paused at the door: ‘I will see you to-morrow. Forty thousand more, my lady, or your beloved husband No, 1 puts in a claim that'll make busband No, 2 how]!” and then was go7e, Tne look on ber face was terrible in its com- bined anger and chagrin, and she burried to ber room to both,hide her excitement and to see if indeed the man had plundered her of the money she had herself stolen from the funds of the Social. She bad not been there long when there came a knock at the door, and she found Sambo awaiting without. “Marse Juck Fallon at de door, mum, an’ insists on seeing you!” the darky said, “Show him up, you ignorant blockhead! He is to be present at the marriage ceremony.” “Bet de master don’t know nuffin’ ob de kind,” Sambo muttered to himself as he shuffled away. J nat Fallon soon entered Madge’s room. He was scrupulously attired, and yet with all his good raiment did not look at ease, “Well, how does the land lay?” be demanded, as soon as he was seated. “All lovely, thus far,” Madge replied. nil tg my. will bo ready in time, ** How is the gov’nor?” “No reports. The doctor has been shut up wi'h him ever since last night, Where is mam- ma ‘In Baltimore,” ** What?” “In Baltimore. We had to vamose the dep last night, and all got off lucky but the madam, and she was tracked so hot that her only alter- native was to skip.” : “* Are you lying to me, Jack Fallon?” “By no means. A visit to Pine street will ore that Kelley & Hickey have gutted that ace ee Then there is danger?” “Loads of it! Iam being searched.for bigh and low, and McGilligan and the other boys have been caged already.” ‘‘Then why do you come here to endanger me?” ‘““You are no better than I; and, besides, there is no danger of their trailing me here—at least not until the sermon is over, “The marriage?” ‘Yes; then, with the bundred and fifty thou. sand dollars’ worth of checks, we will bave hard dodging to remain long enough in the city to get them cashed, and get away safely.” “Do you mean that we shall have to go and leave this magnificent property behind!” “Certainly I dol” * And why?” *“ Because, some way or other, these detec- tives have got on to the whole plot, and did they suspect the marriage to take place to- 16 of her ee caping. aste not a second thought on ber, but proceed with your part of the drama. When all is fixed, fifty and a hundred thousand dollars won't be so awful bad to skip away with. Where is Butler?” “Gone. He demanded money, and after I gave it to him he skipped. Afraid that he was suspected of complicity in the poisening.” Fallon was silent for some minutes, ‘‘It will be a miracle if we work through without trouble,” he said. After the arrival of Sewer Sam and his party in Piiladelphia he took Miss Banker au ct to the Hotel Lafayette, on Broad street, od saw that she was provided with comtortetls quam ters, then be sought ont the «flice of ley, Hickey & Co,, on Sanson. street, Both of the first-n>e1.Lioned members were present and listened ea; erly to the boy’s narra- tion of the rescue. Kelley then proposed that a raid be made on the Pine-street den, and, calling into requixition a squad of police, a deccent wes made straight way. Everything was found as it had been left the night before and handed over to the custody of the chief of police. Among the captured effects were nomerous tools and appliances which proved that Batan’s Social bad comprised as thorough and +hilitul a set of blacklegs and burglars as were ever banded together, having everything that mind could devise to further the neous of their ne- farious calling. Stolen goods to the valve of a number of thousand dollars were recovered, sud spies were placed in the neighborhood to capture any would be purchasers who might come, but these confe‘erates had evidently reomived timely warning, for none put in an appearance, Evening dawned over the Quaker Ottr, bring- ing with it a wild, wirdy rain-momm that caused the streets to look gloomy and dreerted, At the Banker mansion all preparations had been Completed for the quiet marriege, , The bour for its consummation was eight, About seven Ernest met Madge in the and could but noe the facc that she look more regally beautiful than ever in a toilet of white satin, rare Jaces and gleami: g diamonds, “How mary are to be present at the cere- mony?’ sbe asked, ‘‘and where will it take place? It seems very odd to not bavea real brilliant wedding.” “That is out of the question,” Ernest de- clared, ‘ Uncle’s illness would make such a proceeding unseemly, to say the least. The ceremony will take place in the parlor, and Dr, Fitch, Counselor Shields and Sambo will be present. If you have any young lady aequaint- ances you would like to have pres&nt, please send for them,” : “T have not, Mr. Floyd; my cousin and yours, I uppeni will be here,” “Indeed! That will te nice,” ‘* Will papa be able to be brought down?” “Thut [ do not know, as I lave not sulted with the physician, I trust he may be able to be present. Right o'clock. The grand parlor was brillisntly lighted. At one end of the apartment Ernest and Madge were seated, both looking rather pale and ner- vous. Atasmall marble teble near the center of the room sat Lawyer Shields, wi ile nesr bim Joshua Bunker was bolstered up in en easy chair and looking greatly improved in heat. Dr, Fitch attentively hovered near him. At one sid: of the room Jack Fallon was seated; Dr, Sherman the officiating clergyman occupied a position Just opposite, and Sambo sto d near the decor. As the little cuckoo clock announced the hour of erigtt, the minist-r arom, “If every one is present, I will marry these young people, now,” he said, in bis cbaractisti- cally brisk way, ‘+ Please arise.” The request was obeyed, and Ernest and M °ge j ‘ined bands. _The minister then proceeded to read the mar- Tiage service, and got only so far #8 to eons. mand all who knew aught why the mrriiage should not he conasimmated to ewe forward and speak or forever afeer beld tueir peage, when a deep sonorous voioe (ried: “Hold! J forbid the dbems/" and Jobn P.
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16 Kelley strode into the roor, accompanied by Dan Hickey. An audible curse fell from Jack Fallon’s lips, and be made a leap for the nearest window; but for once, cunning rogue that he was, he was not quick enough, for the two sleuths were npon him, in an instant, and bore bim to the floor, where they handcuffed him, easily, in spite of his struggles, “What is the meaning of this proceeding?” Counselor Shields demanded, excitedly. ‘+16 means that we arrest this man, Jack Fal- lon, for a series of crimes, not the least of which is that of conspiring to take the life of Mr. Joshua Banker, by foisoning; also of being chief of a gang of burglars and receivers of stolen goods, and also of attempt to murder one of his confederates!” Kelley cried, “ Tois is a damnable lie!” Fallon roared, furi- ously. “Ob! no it ain’t, Jacky! We have worlds of prcof, and State prison stares you in the face just as surely as that the world endures!” “That has nothing to do with this matter of the marriage!” Shields spoke up, “*T beg your pardon, sir. That young wo- man has been Fallon’s confederate in bis villain- ous scheme to get hold of the Banker property !” Dan said, ‘‘ Furthermore, she has no legal right to marry Mr. Floyd, as she is the wife of Joshua Banker’s valet—Butler, by name!” “Tis false!” Madge screamed. ‘“77i3 true! I searched the matter out, and procured from Butler your marriage-certificate. Kelley, secure the woman, and then to Mr, Banker I wi'l make a few explanations.” Keiley. proceeded to arrest Madge, but before he @ould Jay bands on her, she drew a stiletto from some port of ber dress to drive it into her bosom; but Ernest caught at the uplifted arm, and the blow inflicted, though deep, was not then fatal, She was led staggering from the room, only to consummate her suicide that night, by turn- ing ber face to the pillow and ceasing to breathe—a terrible end for a beautiful but most wicked woman. Mr. Banker was terribly excited, but was prevailed upon to listen, Hickey tben proceeded to relate the inci- dents of the whole case, so that repetition of it here is not worth while, The real Belle Banker was ushered in, and the greeting between father and daughter was warm, tosay the least, After a full conference of all parties, there was a wedding—the nuptials of Ernest and the real Belle were celebrated in earnest, much to the joy of all most concerned. A little mors will suffice to end our narrative of a remarkable case. Perhaps we bave erred in not giving the real names of those we have written of; but to have done so wculd have been to make the affairs of a fine old Philadelphia family too public. Kelley, Hickey & Co., as is well known, have no need to fear having their names in rint, ¢ Joshua Banker, under Dr. Fitch’s care, re- covered, and hasindeed a ‘‘ sweet, sweet home,” Aly his two children, as he calls Ernest and lle, Madge, and her mother, whose remains were discovered, received a quiet burial in Fernwood at Joshua Banker's expense. Old Banker had suddenly disappeared, and it was suspected that he it was who had, by some mysterious means, been the cause of the death of bis sinful wife, When Jack Fallon’s case came to trial, such an overwhelming avalanche of evidence was produced against him that he received prompt Sem LIne. and a ten-year sentence at hard labor. Among those who testified against him, and they were not a few, was Austin, whom he had attempted to bribe; and Kitty, whom he had thrown into the sewer. Sbe bead been but mo- mentarily stunned, and Sewer Sam, who had followed Fallon, easily rescued her after the villain’s hasty departure, McGilligan and Grogan, and the others of the Batan’s Social gang, are now breaking stone at Cherry Hill, with poor prospects of other occu- pation for some time to come, The Dude has, in truth, mended his ways, and bids fair to become a respectable citizen. As to our detectives, it is needless to add that they were well paid by Ernest and Mr. Banker, and although still in the business, it is not so much for the pecuniary benefit as to ‘see that eens be had tho’ ther he’vings should fall,” as **Co.” party often remarks, {By the way, let me say—in parenthesis—l bear that Sewer Sam is working up a ‘‘snap,” and you may naturally look for its ventilation in the near future.] THE END. — BEADLE'S HALF-D:ME LIBRARY. 118 Wit. Somers, rar Boy Detective. By Morris.. 5¢ 119 Mustane Sam. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr......... 5e 120 Tue Branpep Hanp, 121 Crynamon CHIP. 123 Kiowa CHARLEY. Bek C. Harbaugh . 5¢ 124 Trepy, THe Texan. By George Gleason...... 5e 125 Bonanza Brut, Miner. By EB. L. Wheeler..... be 126 Prcayunye Petz. By Charles Morris............ 5¢ 127 Waoip-Fire. By Frank Dumont......... ..... 5e 128 THe Youna Privateer, By Harry Cavendish. 5c 129 Deapwoop Dick’sDoveis. By E. L. Wheeler. 130 Detective Dick. By Carles Morris . .... . Be 131 THe GoLtpen Hanp. By George W. Browne.. bc 182 Tue Huntep Hunter. By Edward 8. Ellis... 5¢ 133 Boss Bos. By Edward L, Wheeler ......... 5c 134 Sure-Suot Sern. By Oll Coomes,............ 5a 185 Caprarn Paun. By C.D. Clark .. ..0....0.00. 5o 136 Niegut-Hawxk Krr., By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. ... 5c 137 Tur Hetpurss Hanp. By Capt. wares Reid. 5c 1388 Bronpe Bru. By Edyard L. Wheeler....... 5c 139 Jupee Lynon, Jr, By T. C. Harbaugh....... 5c 140 BLvue Buazes. By Frank Dumont .. ........ 5c 141 Souip Sam. By Edward L. Wheeler ......... 5¢ 142 Hanpsome Harry. By Charles Morris....... 5e 143 Scar-Facke Savt, By Oll Coomes............ 5e 144 Darnty Lance, Tor Boy Sport. By Badger. 5c 145 CAPTAIN Ferret. By Edward L. Wheeler.... 5c 146 Sttver Srar. By Oll Coomes.......... eevee 5c 147 Wit Witprirn, By Charles Morris........... 5c 148 SHarpe Sam. By J. Alexander Patten. .. .. . 5c 149 A Game or Gotp. By Edward L. Wheeler... 5c 150 Lance anp Lasso. By Capt. F. Whittaker.... 5c 151 Panraer Pav. By Joseph EB. Badger, Jr.... 5¢ 152 Buack Bess. By Charles Morris..... ........ Be 158 EKacur Kit, toe Boy Demon. By Oll Coomes. 5c 14 Toe Sworp-Hounrers. By Capt. F, Whittaker 155 Gotp Triaarr. By T. C. Harbaugh.... .. Se 156 Deapwoop Dick or Deapwoop, By Wheeler. 5c 167 Mike Merry. By Charles Morris be 158 Fancy Mrang or CoLtorapo. By Buffalo Bill.. 159 Tae Lost Carraiyn. By Fred. Whittaker..... 160 Tae Briack Grant. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr... 5¢ 161 New York Nev. By Edward L. Wheeler ... 5c 162 WiLL WILDFIRE 1x THE Woops. By C, Morris. 5c 163 LirtLe Texas. By Oll Coomes.. ens 164 DANDY Rocx’s PLepGr. By Geo. W. Browne., 165 Bruty Bacacaer, tae Ramnroap Boy. Morris.. 166 Hickory Harry. By Harry St. George....... 167 Asa Scorr. By Edward Willett 168 DmapLy Dasa. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. ... 169 TorNADOo Tom. oy T.'O. Haphavigtis:. 0 itt 24 170 A Trump Carp. By Charles Morris,.......... 171 Esoxy Dan. By Frank Dumont.. 172 TuunpERBouT Tom, By Harry St. George.... 173 Danpy Rocx’s Rivau. By Geo. W. Browne.. 74 Bos Rockrerr, By Charles Morris ....... ... 175 CapraIn Arizona, By Philip S. Warne....... 176 Tue Boy Runaway. By Lieut. H. D. Perry.. 177 Nosy Nicx or Nevapa. By E. L. Wheeler.. 178 Oup Somarary. By Oll Coomes. ....... .. 179 Bos Recxert, THs Bank RunneER. By Morris, 180 Tue Spa Trarurr, Lieut. H. D. Perry, U.S. N. 181 Wiip Frank or Montana. By FP. L: Wheeler. 182 Lrrrtw Hurricars. By Oll Coomes.......... 183 Taz Hippen Hanp, By Chas. Morris........ 184 Tue Boy Trarters, By Jos. E. Badger, Jr... 18 Evi. Bys. By Frank Dumont ............. 186 Coot Desmonp. By Col, Dele Sara... ..-..... 187 F'rep Hatyanp. By Chas. Morris .. ... 188 Nep Tempie, By T. C. Harbaugh 189 Bos Rockerr, THE CRACKSMAN. By C. Morris 190 Danpy Darke. By Wm. R. Eyster .... 33 191 BurraLo Bruty. By Capt. A. B. Taylor,U.S.A. 192 Caprain Krr, By Lieut. H. D. Perry, U.S.N. 193 Tue LaDy Roap-AGent. By Philip 8, Warne. 194 Burravo Brru’s Bet, Capt. A. B. Taylor,U.S.A 195 Deapwoop Dick's Drram. td KE. L. Wheeler. 196 SHADOWED. By Charles Morris Cot Seaeeae 197 Lrrrix Grir. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.... 198 ArKANSAW. By T. C. Harbau 199 FEATHERWEIGHT. By Edward Willett ....... 200 Tue Boy Bepourns. By Capt. F. Whittaker .. 201 Tae Buack Hrs Jezepen. E. L, Wheeler.. 202 Prospect Petr. By Oll Coomes..... ot aaeenn 203 Toe Boy Parps. Jos. E. Badger, Jr..... .... 204 GoLD.PLUME. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham ... 5c 205 Deapwoop Dicr’s Doom. By E. L. Wheeler. 5c 206 DARK PavL, THE Trapr Kina. B NOOSE ODODE: COL LOELLLELELe STTT 207 Navaso Nick. By T, C. Harbaugh.. ........ 208 Tue Boy Hercuires. By Oll Coomes....._ - 209 Fritz, THE Bounn-Boy Detective. Wheeler, 5c 210 Faro Frank OF Hiau Pry By W.R. Eyster... 5c 211 Crooxep Cate. By Jos. EF. Badger, Jr......- Be 212 DasuinG Dave, By Charles Morris .. , 218 Fritz To THE Front. By E. L. Wheeler..... 5c 214 Wotra@ana. By Cage Frederick Whittaker.. 5c 215 Capramn Buturt. By T,C. Harbaugh ..... 5¢ 216 Bison Britt. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham...... 5e 217 Caprain Crack-SHot. By E. L. Wheeler.. . 5c 218 Tiarr Tom. By OllCoomes .._..__..... 5c 223 OzarK ALF. By Edward Willett .......... .. bc 224 Dasutna Dick. By Ol! Coomes...:.... ._.. be 225 Sam CHARCOAL, THE Premium Darky. By Charles Morris....... 066. 4. id «date Peiteis ¥- 5e | 238 Tum Parson Derscrive. By Oll Coomes 226 SNoozER, THE Boy Suarp. By E. L. Wheeler. 3e 227 Dusky DarreL, Trapper. By E. Emerson... 5¢ 228 LirrLe WILDFIRE. By Oil Coomeas«.ii35'.+. ss 5c 229 Crimson Kate. By Col. Prentiss I m.. 50 230 Tue YANKEE Rasan. By C. D. Clark....,.... 5¢ 231 Puucky Puiu. By T. C. Harbaugh............ Be 232 Goup-Dust Dick. By E. L, Wheeler.. ...... 5¢ 233 Jor Buck or ANGELS. By Albert W. Aiken.,. 5c 234 Benito, THe Youn@ Horse-BREAKER. By Bucieslein Savill, iss el se hein Tie ead . Be 235 Saapow SAM, THE MerssenGer Boy. By Charles Morris. .. : ae : 286 Apotto Pitt. By Edward L. Wheeler... .. .¢ 237 Longe SrTar, THE Cowpoy Caprain. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 0.5.0 0R | tee aceee 239 Tux Goup-sEEKER Guipr. By Mayne Reid... 240 Cyctone Kir. By Edward L. Wheeler.. a 241 Bint Bravo an® His Bear Parps. By T. ©. Harbaugh .. rye oe I cg ere Pe 2 Tue Two ‘Bioops.’ By Charles Morris." ... 243 Tue Disavisep Gum. By Oll an By 3 pl che be Wage Co FORT a Ai ey cull Pp? 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret. By EB. L. Wheeler 249 Mito Romer. By Captain Fred, Whittaker... 250 MinsurpmMAN Murinrer. By Col. P. Ingraham, 261 Liant-HovusE Lier. By J. F.C. Adams....... 252 Dick DasHAway. By Charles Morris 253 Srerra Sam's Parp. By E. L. Wheeler...... 254 Tum Hair Bioop. By Mdward 8. Ellis. .... 55 Caprain Apotito. By T. C. Harbaugh.. Wilton.. 257 Ture Lost Hunters. 258 Srerra Sam’s SEVEN. 261 Feravus FEARNAUGHT. 262 THe Younc SLrurus. Se LEFSSTSSSLSRTSTLSSS SLSSSSR ee Dudley Warren, (of the Engineer's Corps.). 267 Toe BucKsKIN D Edward 8. Ellis.... 272 Minxskin Mike. By Oj] Coomes... .... ... 273 Jumzo Jozr. By Edward L. Wheeler... ..... ©"t Jotty Jm. By Charles Morris .. .. ...... Arizona Jack, By Buckskin Sam ......... %.6 Mertz Montr’s Crvisz. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham .. ... ae ml 877 Denver Dotu. 278 Tan THREE TRAPPERS. 279 OLp Wincu, 1HE Rive hina, baugh gr oP tae a 280 Mente Monte’s FAre. By Prentiss Ingraha PERS es 3y Ecvard L, Wheeler By Maj. L. W. Carson By T. C. Har- SISTTSS FIT es 288 Tax Scatp Kina. 289 Joutiy Jm’s Jos. 290 LirrLe Foxrire. Ree By Edward Willett......... E. L. Wheeler. 295 FEARLESS PHIL. 296 Denver Doww’s Drirt, B 297 Tur TARANTULA oF Taos, By Buckskin Sam. 298 Tam Watern-Hoonp. By Charles Morris.. 209 A No. 1, raz Dasurve Tort-Taxer, By E. L. Wheeler i acd, ok Sebeetael > we eed 800 Tue Sky Demon. By Oll Coomes.... Re 801 Leapvm_E Nick. By Major E. L. St. Vrain.. 802 ang ere Detective. By T. C. Har- ct, A ES Socket sees ade 2 pithand 303 "LazaA Jane, THE Girt Mixer. By Wheeler. 304 Tue Deap Suor Danpy. By Col. P. Ingraham. 305 DasHaway, or Dakota. ‘By Charles Morris, 306 Neck-Trz Nep. By Maj. H. B. Stoddard.... 307 Tue Strancr Parp. By Buckskin Sam. .. . 808 Keno Kir. By Ccl. Prentiss Ingraham... .. 309 Deapwoop Dick's Bia DEat. Wheeler... 310 Tue Barranca Woxs. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 811 Toe Rovine Sport. By Edward Willett..... 812 Reptop Ruse. By Major E. L. St. Vrain..... 818 Cimarron Jack. By Frederick Dewey. ta $14 Taz Mysterious MaracpER. By Ingraham 315 Nep, THe Capin Boy. By Jack Farragut.... 816 Oty Eourrse. By T. C. Harbaugh... ........ 817 Peacock Perr, By Lieut. Alfred Thorne.... 818 Ker-wHoop, Ker-wHool By Buckskin Sam.. 319 Tuk Buack RIpER. eK E. Padger, Jr... 820 Tae Sea Sorceress. By Jack Farragut .... Deapwoonp Dickx’s Dozen, By E. L. Wheeler. $22 Nemo, rHE Detective. By Edward Willett... 823 ARKANSAW JACK. Harry Harard.... ..--- $24 Rapa Reapy. By Charles Morris 825 Keviey, Hioxey&Co By E L. Wheeler... $26 Bru BLAKE, THE Stayer, By T. C. Harbaugh. 827 CREEPING CAT, THE Cappo. By Buckskin Sam. A new tesue every week. The Half-Dime Library is for — by all Newsdealers, five cents per copy, or sent as mail on receipt of six cents each. DLE & ADAMS Publishers, 98 William street, New York, SISTTITS TTT TICS TTS STS TIE TSTF ree TITS ST