Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 334) (1883 12 18)
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2€ = \) h (=m em |p pm pa | a pa WZ | he pire mm | Nel \ \Y ~ Ay es | TU IDI, HOOT tC MWiPP. WEG A+ SIN : a Da i a ar ee nt i Ut! tt att a at 10 — ine ANS $2.50 &@ year, Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyright, 1883, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, December 18, 1883. Single PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, Vol. XITT. Number. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. No. 334, Mert —— Sinton ere aware: ovens mt ven ears KANGAROO KIT: o BY EDWARD L.’ WHEELER AUTHOR OF “ DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, ‘ROSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, ‘‘DENVER DOLL” NOVELS, ETC., ETC. ; ‘ yy) ‘ Pe a &)) ay) as Ca. eZ . UNABLE LONGER TO CONTROL HIMSELF THE YOUNG KANGAROO LAY UPON THE GROUND, CONVULSED WITH LAt GHTER.
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¥ 2 Kangaroo Kit; THE MYSTERIOUS MINER. A Tale of Ghoul Gulch. BY E. L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘“‘ DEADWOOD DICK’ NOVELS, ‘* ROSEBUD ROB” NOVELS, ETC., ETO, oi CHAPTER L A PUSHING BOY. “Say, mister, be you the boss of these hyer ‘diggin’s?” ‘the one who uttered this query was a mere boy in years, probably not over sixteen, and looked even younger, owing to his shortness in stature, He had, however, every appearance of robust health, and Lis round face would bave been repossessing- had some of the dirt been washed Kom it. .His eyes were sharp in their dusky glance; his well-formed mouth, with its wag- gish sorth of twist in one corner, indicated a redominant trait in the bov’s suany nature; is hair was curly, and of a brick-red color, His attire c d only of a ragged calico shirt, a pair ef trowsers several sizes too large, with holes at the knee, and a cap without a frontispiece. His mud-splashed feet were guilt- less of boots or shoes, and bis general appear- ance indicated that he bad tramped long and far. The person whom he addreszed was a tall, handsome fellow, attired in miner’s habili- ments, His eyes were brown, and yet pene- trating; bis hair and his graceful mustache were a shade or so Jighter than the hair of the youth, The scene was the heart of a rugged gulch, where two scores of miners were busily en- gaged in mining with pan and shovel, while the young man spoken to was leaning idly against a rock, watching the men at work, and ap- peared to be a boss, ZS i: ; An expression of annoyance passed over his face as he turned to gaze at the boy. ‘*What’s that your business?” he demanded, uffly. “Lats, ou bet!” the young ragamuffin re- plied, with a wink, ‘‘ Ye needn’t be so cranky because a feller axed yer a ’portant question.” : ** Who are you?—what do you want?” “*T want ter know ef you be the high-cocko- lorum what owns these hyer diggin’s?” ‘*No, Lamnot. What of it? “Dash it, yer as short as pie-crust, I jest wanted ter find out, I’m Redtop Christopher, or Christopher ere or Kangaroo Kit—jest as ye please—all the way from Bosting, and I want work, aroo Kit aire what tuey gen- erally dubs me who knows how I kin sling my legs an’ tongue. Oh, I’m a bouncer,’ you'd bet- ter believe, if my hair is like yourn—a rich au- burn,” and the vagabond grinned at bis F gon “ £uburn! I should say so, you red ‘mon- key’s brother, What are you out in this wild country for, anyway? by, you're nothin’ ee stub of a cigar—a runt of a boby—a mere “Ob, you dry up on that, mister. Don’t hid me, case I’m sorter sawed off, alongside o’ you. I’m sixteen, and. hev come ter stay, till I kerr back a gold brick big asa hoss-car. What want is work, wharI can git a livin’, and la by some shekels, in view o’ buyin’ out a rail- road or two one o’ these days.” “Well, I reckon you’ve struck the wrong town, my lad. Slim chances of your getting 4 job hereabouts, I fear, Kangaroos are at a dis- count just now,” “‘Git out! Guy me a job yonder. I can handle a shovel like a Patrick, you bet!” ' ‘ “T bave oF todo with bie, the men, simply see ey keep to wor oh I see—you’re gang boss. Whar’s the money boss? He’s ther in I wanter inter- view, you bet.” ‘“‘Mr. Lyons has not returned from Chicago. He will likely be back ina day or two, Then, you might strike him.” “A day or two! Jumpin’ Jerusalem, how d’ye ’spect a feller to waita day or two, when he rt rae. ad _ four weeks om a ye ’spect him aw or su sist on ther pihe-acenited breeze? wrecker you never was hungry!” “T generally git hungry about meal-time!” was the dry reply, with a glance at his watch— . Kangaroo Kit. for it lacked but a fow minutes of quitting time, which was at sunset. ‘ ‘Say, mister, what’s yer name?” the young Bricktop demanded, rather aggressively. **You’re too inquisitive, my kid,” was the quiet retort. ‘*Not a bit of it! How’sa feller ever to get along, ef he don’t learn who’s who?” The overseer eyed the lad a moment, keenly, then put his hand in his pocket, and drew forth several pieces of silver money. ‘‘ Here, you young tramp, take this, and clear out. My name is Sandy. Git, now!” he ordered ge * You bet, Sandy, old stockin’s, You’re jest a prime sort ov nabob, you be, and il be yer humble sarvent pervidin’ yer ain’t too sassy! I'll jest go an’ surprise my digestive ap tus wi’ as big a set-out as ther state of my finances will admit. a feller kin git the worth of my money?” “ A Jew keeps a grub-shop up in camp, Go there!” ; ** All right. Much obleege to ye. I’ll_go an’ eat him out, an’ then go interview Boss Lyons’s gal, an’ see if | can’t indooce her to work me in fer a job!” and he marched off, whistling as merrily as though he were a born duke, “Queer chap!’ Sandy muttered, gazing thoughtfully atter him. ‘‘ He’s got brass enough to carry himself through the world, I'll vow, if he don’t acquire any of the more precious metals. At first, I almost fancied I had seen his face, before; but of course, I am mistaken, He is probably some young runaway, from Omaba or Denver.” He paid no further attention to the Kangaroo, as he called himself, but turn-d bis attention to the miners, several of whom had indulged in ‘*shirking ” while he was busied in conversation with the little tramp. Ghoul Gulch diggings, owned and controlled by James Lyons, of whom mention has been made, and the town, or mining-camp, known as Ghoul Gulch, were located about a quarter of a wile apart, The diggings were extensive, both as placer and quartz vein, but Mr. ,uyons owned the whole of the yielding territory where prospect- ing bad thus far discovered any gold, and would not allow any habitations or other build- ings on his property, except his quartz-mill and bis own private residence, which was built of stone, anc far more pretentious than any other residence in that section of country, The mining-camp had been situated further up the gulch, aid consisted, besides its dwell- ings, of a couple of general stores—a tavern boasting of the name of the Grand Union—a rainy b res’ aurant, several saloons, public gam- bling-houses and dance-halls, Tue population was rather mixed as_ to nationality, and -was daily increasing, as Ly- ons’s lucky strike a few months before our story bad led people to believe that there must surely be one productive territory besides his in that vicinity. : The restaurant of which Sandy had made mention to Kangaroo Kit was located near the heart of the camp, and was owned and me by a ponderous cross between a Jew and a German, who rejoiced in the name of Hans Glockenspiel, _ Such of the miners as couldn’t aiford to pay the charges of the Grand Union, or had no bomes of their own, generally patronized Hans’s lace; consequently he did a living business. aving money, he also dabbled a little in pawn- broking, on a small scale, having fr opportunities to take in various things for a very insignificant Joan, which nine times out med. : Kit at last spied the den, and before ontera given him. ; a try, never suck—eggs, eh? goest > He strutted into the little one-story edifice. where Hans held forth, with the air of a full- fledged bonanza king. ¢ The fat-faced, big-bodied prietor wus within the eating bar, perched on a stool, and engaged in seeking solace in powerful whiffs from a huge meersehaum pipe. “Hello! Wie gahts/ How ag was, Dutchy?” Kit salited, familiarly. ‘Is this ther place ee feller gits ther worth of bis ducats in u “Dot ish der ferry blace!” Hans declared, Know of ary ’stablishbment. where | uent ‘You goes mit der Grand Union, und you So noddings but silver-vara und _ shiney. ou gomes here mit my blace, und I gives you vot you can eat, sheep as baff vot you pay der er blace,’ ‘Squerect! that’s ther prime ticket! All I wants is the worth o’ my money. Have you got any quail on toast, egg-flitters and snap- per soup?” *“Vot you dakes me for? I keebs no Broad- way blace,- You gets beef und potatoes, mit breadt un coffee—dot’s all!” * Well,. my eee ain’t werry fastidgus, to-day, so fetch it along!” ‘ The steaming hot edibles were soon placed in front of the young vagabond, and he “ pitched into” them with a will, When one a meal had vanished, he look- ed up, wistfully. “*Hain’t got no stewed American eagle, or burro chowder, hey you?” he asked. ‘*T dells you I keep no such stuff!” “Nor fricaseed taran’tler, ala mode icy parle on francaise!” ‘*No! no!” Hans blustered, all vat you get,” ‘*Onl well, considerin’ the lattertude I’m in, mebbe I bev got the worth of my money. Here’s yer ten cents!” “Ten cents!” roared Hans, growing apoplec tic. “Vy, young vellers, I sharge you sev.nty- fife cents for vot you haff.” ‘ ‘*Git out, you overgrown cheese, Didn’t you tell me you'd give me the worth of my money? Now, what you kickin’ about? Il’m satisfied with what 1 got for ten cents!” “ But, my poy, you don’d vas understood vot I mean. I gives. you a pig meal, und sbarges you seventy-five cents.” “Oal I see. Well, just charge it—neme’e Kangaroo Kit, an’ when I strike a pay streak, Til come around and settle. Thanks for your bern Will drap in ag’in, bout breaktast time. y-by, old bologna!” And sliding fron! bis stool, the young scalawag from Boston, started for the door. Toe suspicious sound of click! click! caused him to suddenly pause and look back, to beboid a formidable revolver in the Dutcbman’s grasp, and a determined expression upon bis rubicund visage. eS x tFfello! goin’ ter shoot, hey?” Kit i: quired, anxiously. “You bet! Youst you hand ofer dot odder sixty-fife cends, or I plow off der bull of you seraniura!”’ Ye needn’t put yerself toso much trouble, ’ j j = Dutchy. I’ye got use fer this lodging-house o philosofy, fer years to come, yet. eers yer ducats, ye stingy old sauer-krout barrel—every I’ve got, ’cept my bair, Wait till 1 patron- ize yer pig-pen ag’in! O-ob! would /’t like to bite off yer nose, tho’! By the way—can’t ye give a feller a job?” ‘ “Gift you noodings! You git!” “You bet. Requi-cat in peace, old Jager!” And the boy glided from tbe place with considerable less grace than when he haa enter- ** Yow got youst ed it. Ns “Thet old porkypine don’t take ter littlo cherubims, like me, [ guess,” Kit observed, as be sauntered away, feeling n.uch the better for bis meal. ‘*Them wittles war like ker’sene ile on troubled waters; tho’, Another pound o’ tbat Slate ‘? gp ley ne 3 mn a fi woah eek. ar g ther bullgine whistle at the breaker, fer ther hands ter quit, ’Spect ef 1 wanter interview Miss Laurel Lyons, 1 better be doin’ it.” r ; ; He directed his footsteps, then residence of the gorepaide, ¢ as was’called by all who knew him, Y The handsome stone dwelling bad been built in a grove of maples, which was surrounded by a hedge, An abundance of shrubs chcked up the grounds, wherein were arbors, serp: nlive walks, and rustic seats, ; Kangaroo Kit found the heavy gate open, and therefore bad no difficulty in gaining access to grounds. : aused to about him, when a voico drew his attention to a grotto-like arbor, near at hand. : “ What do you want here, young man? Tbe voice was sharp and high pitched, that of a woman, evidently far beyond her thirties, with a_sharp face, but with a simpering ™m D- fair was nearly as fiery ‘auburn towerd the ames Lyons ner. 2 4 . as Kit’s own. She was dressed in a flowing wrapper of startling colors. “Old maid, ont an’ out!” the young Kangaroo inwardly commented, ‘Some ancient spinster whe never caught a mash, you bet! Bin readin’ Wonder ef I can’t poetry, too, as ’ma duck! ‘
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«= -——-—— scrape acquaintance, and have some fun? Let me see—old maids’ names aire generally Ange- line—wonder how it would strike this old gal?” He stepped toward the arbor, and doffed his hat like a torn Chesterfield. ‘* Beg parding, lady—did you address me?” he asked, in his most gracious way. “Tl asked what you want here?” the occupant of the arbor answered, a little Jess harshly. ‘““Ah, yes! Why, you see, I called tosee Miss Laurel, on an errand of mercy. I wish to ob- tain work, you see. You, I presume, are the fair, Miss Angelina?’ ‘‘Indeed! How strange! How did youcome to hear of my name?” ‘** Easy enough. I fell in wi’ a fust-class young feller, down hyer, a bit ago—another sorrel-top like you and I—and he spoke of you so descrip- tively an’ endearin’ly, thet I knew ye at sight. Reckon be must be stuck on you, not?” ‘“Tt—it cannot be possible that it was—it a i and Angeline grew as rosy as a blood- et. ‘Yas, it war the identercal ehap—Sandy he calls hisself. He's foot all broke-up on you. He sez you’re jest reg’lar old free-stone peaches an’ goat’s milk, wi’ honey fer sweetenin’.” “Ob! fle! You are poking fun at me.” ‘Hope to eat my suspenders ef Iam! Why, he raves ’bout you to his intermut ’quaintances like me. He privetly remarked to me: thet be did hev a notion fer Miss Laurel, but on mature consideration he found the diff’rence. You was sedate, stately and womanly—fit fer ther thumps an’ knocks o’ marriage life; no! no! them weren’t ‘zactly the words, but he meant you were solid, mentally an’ intellectually, whilo Laurel war young, giddy an’ girlish—un- fit fer mattermonial consummation or suthin’ like that.” **Ob! IT can hardly believe it true, It seems 80 sudden—so unexpected !” and Miss Angeline’s nervousness was laughable to behold. ‘“Yus, be sed he bad neglected to make known his change of mind, because he war so timid, an’ so he commissioned me ter fetch you this as an ice‘breaker, to let ye know of his un- dying love.” Kit had picked a full-blown red rose near the gate, and he advanced and presented it to her. Angeline was really too overcome with emo- tion for utterance, and the Kangaroo calculated it was high time for him to hop out. “Ye see, Sandy didn’t happen to hev any change in his pocket when be sent me—would I be too bold?” he asked, half apologetically. “Ob! no! no! bless you, no!” Angeline ex- claimed, eagerly, and out came her velvot urse ina jiffy. ‘‘Here is a dollar, my good y. Now, please, leavo me to my own’ sweet, sweet red rose!” “Sold ag’in’ an got the tin!” quoth the saucy vagabond as he hurried away. ‘ What a soft old goslin’ she aire anyhow. Bet a bumper she Fen onter his jiblets, Sandy, wi’ a hull cart- oad o’ lollygaggin’. Phew! won't ther’ be a circus then, an’ won’t my stock—tbat in the bulge of my pantaloons—go up a-kitin’! Ob! bum! Well, thar’s no use livin’ cept one can have fun. Hello!” He was some distance away by this time, when he was brought to a halt by a hand upon his shoulder, Wheeling around he was confronted by the prettiest girl with the prettiest mischievous face and starry eyes that he had ever seen. In fact, this brown-haired, brown-eyed, rosy- cheeked vision of loveliness, in a charming,‘\airy costume, nearly took his breath away, so great was the surprise. ‘You audacious young rascal!” this vision of loveliness exclaimed, trying not to laugh. ‘“* Whatever shall I do to you, now that I have captured you?” ‘Dunno! Who are you, an’ what's bitin’ ye!” demanded the boy, doggedly. ““Who am JI, and what’s bitin’? me? Well! well! worse and worse! Why, Mr. Impucence Pil have you know that there’s nothing bitin’ me, as you term it; and furthermore, that I am Laurel Lyons.” ‘*Bully! You're my mutton, then, Put ’er thar, Laurel, old gal! and the young irrepres- sible put forth a powerful palm that looked de- or y at it an not touched ieee in weeks, ‘You dirty little vagabond, do you suppose I’d touch that terrible hand?” Miss Lyon cried, stepping back. *‘Doas yer like about that. It’s an honest old -fist to grapple onter, tho’, So you’re the boss’s darter, en?’ ’ “tam,” “Right ye are, too. I’m Christopher Brick- top all the way from Bostivg. On account o’ Kangaroo Kit. the pecooliarity ov my propensities fer jumpin’ into other folks’ good graces I’m best known as Kavgaroo Kit. Got onter my racket wi’ Anger- liner, did ye?” “Yes. How did you know?” ‘Judged so. What d’ye think of it?” “1t was awful bad, in you. But I enjoyed it, though. Really, you ought to be ashamed of yourself, Mr. Kangaroo! You are well named. A more outrageous boy I never met,” “Oh, git out! Whar’d you be ’bout that time—fer enjoyin’ the circus?” “Oh! hush! You have too much tongue.” ey th I’m thinkin’ 0’ splicin’ om a piece. Thet feller Sandy’s yer feller, not?” ‘*No, sir! Mr. Impudence.” ‘Phew! Bet a dollar ye—” “What do you want here, sir?” she sharply interrupted, her eyes expressing anger. ‘Want to see the guv’ner!” ‘* He is not at home,” «Where is he?” ‘‘Homeward bound from Chicago.” “Who runs the roost now?” wr UG.” ‘You're my Salvator Rosa, then. I want a job, an’ want it bad.”. ‘*T have nothing to do with my father’s busi- ness arrangements, sir.” “But you’ve got influence, Be a good girl, now, an’ work mein. I’m an orfun, wi’out ary a show ’cept what I can go fer, myself. I can work like an ox, an’I ain’t dainty ’bout what ther job is, neither, as long as it pans out an honest living.” Miss Lyons relented, for she gazed at the saucy stranger with a kindly smile. She was barely over eighteen, herself, and yet she was gif with more than ordinary intelligence, and could see that this boy wes a diamond in the rough, and would rapidly improve by a lit- tle polish, “Would zor like to work in the mines?’ she asked, kindly. ‘“* You bet. man’s price.” “Well, | will see what I can do for you, Ah! here comes Mr. Hawk now, He is papa’s super- intendent.” A gentleman in faultless attire was coming leisurely toward them from the direction of the gate—a man of swarthy complexion, with eyes, hair and mustache all dark. He eyed Kit with a frown as he approached, and the youth returned the stare coolly. ws evening, Harry,” Miss Lyons accosted. “ Here is a young lad who wants work in the mines. Can you give him a chance?” ‘No; we have more help than we need now, and plenty of applications frem able-bodied men I kin do a man’s labor, if I get a ‘But I thought it was papa’s intention to in- crease the force?” ** Haven’t beard of it, I assure you.” ” “1 wish you could put this young lad on. He is willing to do a man’s work, and needs money to help him along in the world. I guess you can do it, can’t you Harry—if I ask you?” “Excuse me before answering; but what’s your interest in the chap? He looks like a pa- tent tramp.” * Ef you didn’t hev a red, ner no friends, you’d tramp too!” Kit declared spiritedly, * Dry up!” returned Hawk. “T simply take a merciful interest in him, sir!” Laurel responded quietly. ‘lt is our duty to help the poor.” ants biee ga oe first-class moralizer, Miss Lavrel. ell, for your sake, I'll do what i can. If the kid has got the necessary tools he can come to work in the morning, and try it till the governor gets back, That is as far as my ‘power 0es. ait: Thank you, boss. I haven’t nary a tool, but ef I don’t skeer up a set ’twixt now and sun- rise you can set me down fer a flat.” ‘Look out ye don’t become too sbarp,” Hawk warned significantly. ‘If you steal you will made to squeal, and that too at the end of a noose.” ‘“When I steal, old Gabriel’s trumpet _wili have been used an’ got rusty again!” was Kit’s retort; and thrusting his hands into his pocket, and striking into a whistle, he strode away. He had taken but a few steps when he paused and looked back. “Hey, Miss Laurel!” he cried. * oh Kit?” p ah cet os rgot ter say I’m much obleeged to ye, a hundred thes. ood night.” “ Good-nigbt. Be a good boy.” “You bet! Good-night, Mr. Hawk.” The superintendent made no answer, as he and Laurel walked on toward the house. ‘“‘Humph! the supercilious son of a-gun!” the young Kangaroo grunted. ‘‘’Svect he thinks he’s bigger’n sum hull family. . Bet be is a bard task-master.” CHAPTER II. SUPERINTENDENT AGAINST BOSS, ALTHOUGH by no means a city, Ghoul Gulch was as lively a camp, after working-bours, as any other place ‘within a hundred miles of it— in fact, it was in many respects an infant Dead wood City. The only street was thronged with people of many conditions, faces and characters, among whom the scum and out-scourings of different cities, States and nations were noticeable; the dance-houses, saloons and gambling dens were in full blast, with open doors; every vacaut lot bad some one of the catch-penny effairs on ex- . hibition that draw forth the lucre of the‘unwary, It was literally a carnival of strange people, and a a og diseordant buzz of sound, Among the puvcieel resorts that were most attractive to the average digger of the dust, was a gambling-den known as the Mabille—a lorae one-story affair, rough in its exterior, but well fitted up and furnished within, from the gorgeous bar to the magnificent gambling pura- pbernalia, pictures and cafpets. Facilities were here off ve for playing ai- most every known game; not that the proprie- tor was profiting Jargely from anit $ ex tensive an establishment; she, rather, had an eye to the future, when the population greatly increased, as it seemed to be gradually dbding. For the owner was a women—a very mys- terious woman, too, of whorb no one knew any- thing more than was to be learned by every-day observation, — ’ She bad suddenly appeared, built the place, and stocked and furnished it, She dressed in deepest black, and ever wore sufficient thick- ness of vail over her face to prevent any feature being discernible, except her eyes, dak and liquid, for the use of which suituble holes baa been cut in the yail, She wore the tightest fit- ting of black gloves, and no jewelry except a gold watch and cbain, Her actions were always modest, and woe be to the one who made an improper remark in her presence, as sbe bad been known to shoot several fn their tracks for such an offense. She never spent over two out of twenty four hours in the place, and then fit was at the gam- ing-tables, During other bours the place was run for her ty a shrewd Spaniard, named Car. los de Castra, and a corps of attaches, . Even Carlos pro*essed to know no.more of the strange woman than the public. She always appeared at midnight, was band- ed over the money, less the expenses, and de- parted within two hours afterward—whither, no ove could find cut, F She came and went Jike a shadow. She seldom spoke, "most always nodding when questioned by a customer of ber place, Her hour for coming, had given ber the title in Ghoul Gulch, of Madam Midnight, and no one knew ber as anything else. At the tables she bad varying luck, but gen- erally won, Other women gambled at the Mabille, ag well as the Madam, but they were miuers’ wives whose husbands sanctioned the sport, and noth- fog rngp was thought of it, it being regarded as honorable and pleasant pastime, : ~It was in the neighborhood of midnight, of the evening succeeding the events last, related, and the Matille was comfortably filled with people—for a wonder all men—.he mejority of whom were engaged in the various games, At one‘table, and apart from any one else, sat. Harry Hawk, the, superintendent of. the mines, He seemed to take no interest in any of the games going on around him; on the con- trary rather appeared to be watching for some one, as his gaze was turned toward the entrance of the resort. sp Ba - A perceptible scow] mantled bis brow, and ové acquainted with him, would have surmised that he was out of temper. J He glanced at his handsome watch, occasion- ally, impatiently. tbe “ Curse the luck, why don’t the fellow come?” he muttered. ‘He is, mighty long, Mt SSID me, ; As if in answer to his growl, the stalwart fizure of Sandy, the gang boss, was seen at the other end of the room. He came leisurely into the place, With graceful step, and looking hand- some in the glare of the many lights, He was a man of some twenty-five years, or about two years the junior of Harry Hawk,
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4. ——$—$ $$ —— “Hi! there—this way, Sandy!” the superin- tenrlent called. ‘*I want to see you,” : Without change of his usually good-natured expression, Sandy obeyed, and paused near the table. F ‘‘Sitdown,” Hawk commanded, ‘I’vesome- thing important to tell you. Have some rum?” “Thanks! I don’t touch it,” Sandy replied, seating himself. ‘‘I’ll have a cigar, if any- thing.’ H wk gave the order, and then faced the overseer, “Sandy, what is your name?” he * bega ** You're a queer sort. of conundrum, and mus have some otber sort of a title.” ‘“‘Sandy suits my needs, sir, and I have no use for any other!” was the evasive answer. ‘*But you have another?” wor If so I propose to keep it to my- self. ‘Some shudow in your past career, that makes it necesnaey, I presime?” ‘“T presume no ; sir!” Sandy retorted tartly. “Ob! pray don’t take offense, I meant noth- ing, It seemed so strange, to me, you know, Let me see; you’ve been with us three weeks.” “T have.” ; ‘‘And have given Mr. Lyons the greatest of sete I understand, with but one excep- on, “ Ab! I was not aware of my not having done ere Rel entirely right.” sought the faro-table, whither Hawk soon tol- lowed, and seated himself by her side. ‘But for my respect for you, there would bave been a corpse over there!” he said in a sibilant whisper. ‘¢ Bah! meet him like a man!” was her cutting answer. A game of faro was just starting, and the pot was heavy. Sandy strolled up, noted the piles, and drop- ped a hundred-dollar note on the queen of dia- monds, ‘A hundred to one I win!” he said. ‘Five hundred eyen you don’t!” Hawk grit- ted, pulling forth a bundle of money, ‘Take you!” from Sandy. The bet was made; Carlos de Castra held the stakes. The cards were then drawn, Sandy won. A murmur from around the table, while Hawk looked annoyed and vengeful. Although Madam Midnight was counted a square dealer, it was seldom she let a five-hand hundred pot game slip past her. “Tm broke!” Hawk confessed. ‘‘ 1s my check good till Lyons gets back?” ** Perfectly.” The game was much lighter this time; never- theless, Sandy made another scoop. 6 was upwards of twelve hundred dollars in, That will do for me!” he announced, * Crawfish!” Hawk sneered. “Liar!” was the hot retort. The superintendent leaped to his feet with a terrible oath, ‘“ Well, to tell the truth, you have so far as the overseership is concerned. But you see it’s this way. My step-uncle, Mr. Lyons, is a very rich man, and a very sensitive one, It has come to bis ears that you have formed the acquaint- ance of bis daughter, during his absence, and as ‘‘1}] make you choke that back, curse you,” he had based great hopes on her future, he is | he yelled, ‘‘ Come out into the street, if you ievou ly pained that there should have uofor- | are not afraid.” Taontele been several meetings between you ‘*Lead abead,” was Sandy’s order, ‘We might as well settle the matter now as at any other time.” Hawk obeyed, uttering a string of bitter im- precations as be went. Sandy followed close behind him, uo trace of and Miss Laurel.” your stations in life are so at variance, You | fear upon bis handsome face. are a man who depends Bron the sweat of {on Outside a moon nearly full poured down a brow for sustenance, while she is a young lady | mellow flood of light upon the town, illuminat- of wealth and culture,” ‘«T fail to see, sir, how you know that I am beneath ber social positién. You, nor any other or in Ghoul Gulch, have any data as to who am, what [am worth or what are my con- nections with matters worldly.” “Maybe not. That is not formetosay. I know you to bea nice-appearing fellow, I speak only in the interests of my relative, Bs Lyons.” ‘Did he commission you to do this?” ¥ ** He did.” ‘‘He must have received information from you,then” ,. . “He did, I felt it_my duty to write him. Laurel is but a child yet.” ‘““You have made qoutes decidedly fresh, ing all objects with startling distinctness, n addition to the crowd already upon the wide, rough thoroughfare, the Mabille was soon emptied of its habitues, and the greatest ex- citement soon prevailed. The opponents took to the center of the street, which was left clear for them, for no Westerner of much experience is fond of stopping the bullets of astreet duel, where the spectator is full as liable to get ‘‘salivated” as the duelists. ‘“What weapons do Pai propose to use?” Sandy demanded, when they were facing each other. “* Revolvers, curse articular, because I’! you, or knives. I’m not east, an how.” make a case for a coyote sir, Lassure you, Will’ you show me your in- “Revolvers, then, let it be. Choose your structions?” : . second and I will mine, and they shall put the ‘‘T haven’t them with me—left the letter on | tools in order.” 7 : my bureau,” ‘* Who will act for me? Hawk cried, looking around, ‘I want a second.” ‘“‘1’'m yer man,” cried a low- browed fellow, with bandy legs and aneye that some one had re- cently frescoed in raven color. ‘It’s a cold day when I don’t load yer poppers kerect fer ye, rry.” ‘“‘ And I will act fer the other gent!” a long- geared, meek-looking, smooth-faced man said, towering forward, fully six feet and a quarter in hight. ‘I’m Steamboat Steve, from the Mississip, an’ a stranger hyerabouts—but that don’t matter, fer I’m as square as a cube. 1 right pardner?” F * You'll do,” Sandy replied. ‘ Who will act as referee, now?” No one replied, It was not a job that the ordinary pilgrim coveted, for an unsatisfactory degisioe to either party was liable to entail a ‘** Perhaps, then, you can give me some idea as to whom Mr, Lyons designs to marry his daughter?” ‘ ght as much. ‘Very likely Mr. Ly- ons can satisfactorily explain the matter on his return!” “What! dare you insinuate that he did not write such a letter, you—” ‘“Have a care bow you address me, Harry Hawk, I'll have you know I’m aot a man to bs insulted with impunity.” ‘You have insulted me, sir! I'll have satis- faction for this!” Hawk cried aloud, his passion aroused, and leaping to his feet he drew a re- volver. Py clnod fightin such a multitude as surged im- Before he could hope to use it, it was knocked | patiently at either side of the street . from his hand... : “Come, gents; a referee is an imperative “* Enough of this, Mr, flawk. You nor any,| necessity here. Who will oblige?” other man can mit in my place!” : ” Ker-w born! Hurray! arm I wanted? It was Madam Midnight who spoke, Make room—breathin’ space fer the great chaw- She stood in their nec, ber handsome | ’em-up of Chico—ther untamed flowin’ fly from form looking queenly. Vultureville. [I’m yer man—Monkey Mouth, the biggest storm o’ blood an’ butcher-knives this side o’ anywhere, Bow-wow! ba-a-al who sed obleege?” Down the street, tearing along with panther- like leaps, had come a gigantic specimen of the bummer race, with roars and yells, until he was forced to pause and gasp for breath; then he d around at the assemblage as if he would like to swallow them one by one. awk instantly ‘cowered, and leaving his weapon lying on the floor, reseated himself. y arose. “3 It's matter of slight importance, Madam,” | he said, doffing bis hat, “‘and you are right— this is no place to settle a personal matter. If Mr Hawk wants satisfaction he can send no- tice by his second at any time. I have neither inclination to fight ner to refuse to fight!” i He then sauntered away, and the Madam Hatless and bootless, and clad only in a suit of tattered, greasy overalls, he possessed, im addition to bis huge limbs and trunk, a mon- strous head, minus many visible patches of hair, and a terribly cut face of positively wolfish ex pression, the mouth of which stretched opep nearly from ear to ear, and disclosed an ex- panse of large gleaming teeth, with here and there a vacancy where he bad lost one. As a whole, he was a hideous object to gaze upon, and a murmur of surprise was audible, “Oh! ye kin uk at me! 1 know I ain’t purty. I warther chromo o’ ther Nor’wes', a week ago, but I went on ther rampage, au’ got licked like thunder, Who wants a second? Squeal!” “We do,” spoke up Sandy, “ Bow-wow! ba-a-a!l I’m yer howlin’ old bull-calf, then. My handle is Monkey Moutb the chaw-’em up, an’ I’m every bit as good as look. Get ter yer persitions! I’m yer bloomin’ dandeiion fer the squar’ deal every time, an” don’t ye two ferget it! CHAPTER III. AN EXTRA SHOT, “Hurray! thet’s the ticket—let’er go!” cried Kangaroo Kit, who bad by this time arrived op the scene. ‘‘ I’ve got a lone dollar w’ot sez thet Sandy gits erway wi Hawky in four rounds, Ob! but ain’t this a pic-nic tho’!” “* Jest ye keep yer gab outen, or I'll chaw ye up an’ spit ye out!” Monkey Mouth growled, so ferociously that Kit involuntarily edged away. Tbet feller looks like he might be able to swaller a porkypine, quills and all,” he observ- ed to a miner, ‘‘Quess his old woman was jealous of his beauty an’ got up an’ lambasted him, Sech is life. Whod’ye bet on, pard?’ ‘Looks like Sandy will give Hawk more tham he bargained for—that is, if he’s as good wi’ the shooter as he aire wi’ other things.’ ‘You pile yer rhino on him every time.” ‘*T’l] "zamine them pops, ef ye please, beloved seconds!” Monkey Mouth declared, “T want to see that thar ain’t no ’possum bizness in this hyer funeral!” “That's right!” Sandy agreed, ‘‘ Let it be seen that each weapon contains all the car- tridges it will hold!” The weapons were made ready by the seconds and then banded over to Monkey Mouth, who, after a minute inspection delivered them up to the two principals. ‘Put yer backs to each other!” sung out the referee; “then each take ten paces for’a’d. Then, when I squeal out ‘Keno!’ wheel about and blaze away, one shot each, . When I squeal ‘Keno!’ each time, let’ her flicker, When ye git enuff, let us know!” . They took their positions, these two men who were to figbt each other, and marched forward ten paces and paused, their weapons beld in yroreneee to wheel about and fire at the given word. ‘* Ready, gents?” sung out the giant. “Ready!” responded Sandy. “Ditto,” echoed Hawk. “Then ther devil take ther poorest. shooter, an’ some one pass around ther bat, an’ take up a kerlection fer funeral expenses. Keno!” As if worked on_ pivots, the opponents wheeled simultaneously, and two jets of flame leaped from tke polished tubes, “Time!” roared Monkey Mouth. Sandy stood erect and immovable, apparently unharmed, Hawk’s weapon Jay upon the ground, and he was holding his right hand with bis left. — The bullet of Sandy’s weapon had nearly torn away his thumb. “Cavortin’ cattymounts, Thet war a fine shot. Hev yer got enuff, boss?” the giant how]- ed, executing a jump into mid-air and knocking his heels together. j “ No!” Hawk howled, with an oath. ‘No, PH kill bim left-handed!” He seized his revolver and cocked it. “11 not take an advantage of you!” Sandy said. ‘I, too, will use Ww 4 left band.” And suiting action to the word, he changed his wea- pon to bis left band. ‘‘ Squar’ as the rock 0’ ages thet galoot be, an’ don’t ye fergit it!” declared the giant. “ Ready, now, gents! Keno!” Again the report of the weapons rung forth upon the clear night air, ‘A how! of pain from Hawk. is left wrist was shattered, and there was a bullet wound in his cheek. ** Foul play !” he shrieked. “ Thave been shut twice!”
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_ In an instant all was excitement of the most intense character, as the crowd surged around,’ Hawk had fallen tothe ground, and the sec- onds were examining bis wounds, “The cursed feller did it!” the superinten- dent roared. ‘*Somebody salivate him for me.” ‘* You are wrong,” Sandy protested, he hav- ing drawn near. “I fired but two shots as the cartridges in,my revolver will prove,” and he handed the still smoking weapon over to Mon- key Mouth. j . ‘The chap tells the straight,” the giant de- elared. ‘“ Thar’s been but two bullets fired from this pop!” “Yet Mr. Hawk has undoubtedly been hit three times,’ Steamboat Steve spoke up, from his kneeling position, ‘‘ Here is a bullet im- bedded in Hawk’s left wrist, and a bullet has also grazed his right cheek with foree enough | to draw blood. Some one certainly fired a third shot or else the single bullet. struck his cheek first and glanced down and sbat' ered his wrist.” The idea aroused the risitilities of the rough audience, and they broke intoa roar of laugh- It did not please Harry Hawk, bowever, for he uttered a string of curses. “Take me in the hotel!” he roared, ‘‘and get a doctor, Tll yet live to be revenged tor this night’s work!” His request. was .granted; several pairs. of willing bands volunteered. After he bad disappeared within the hotel, and the maori iy of the crowd still lingered in the street, Sandy entered the Mabille, and spied Bnsiam Midnight looking out of an open win- ow, She evidently did not see him, until he touched her lightly on the shoulder, when she turned with a little gasp of alarm. “Ob! it’s only 1!” Sandy laughed. “‘I won- der how many know who fired that extra shot?” “*T don’t know!” she replied, in a strange tone of voice. ‘* Do you?” “T should say I do!” She gazed at him a moment, in a way that made him feel uneasy. ‘‘Who did fire it?’ she demanded, in the same constrained voice, ‘* You did!” be replied, candidly, A faint sarcastic laugh escaped her lips, and she turned and swept away from bim. Sandy gazed after her, half regretfully. “Strange! strange!’ he mused. ‘She is a mystery, ani she knows it, and means to re- main so, And I—I have resolved to penetrate her disguise, let come what may, hy is it that she is ever connected with my thoughts! I sometimes fancy—” What he fancied, was not to be known, for he abruptly turned and left the Mabille, The young Kangaroo, was in aquandary, He had already fallen in love with the camp of Ghoul Gulch, for he was in the seventh heaven of delight where there was any fun or excite- ment to be bad, And he wanted to remain; but, how was he to do it? He had been promised work, yet he required a pick, shoyel, pan, and pouch, and bad oot the wherewithal to purchase them. How, then, was he to become possessed of the impor- tant tools? , It was'not probable that he could buy them on credit; it was not likely that be couid .bor- row what he wanted, and as for sealing, that was out of the question. : ' The prospects looked dubious, “Tt’s a durned shame that a feller o° my Bos- ting wit can’t see a way out o’ this dilemmer,” he mused, as he sauntered th with the crowd after the duel was over. ‘“‘Thar’s whar many a feller kin never ’mount to shucks, ‘case he sin’t got any graft fo start on, ’Tain’t goin’ ter stunt my financial growth though—not fer ry. Dye got ther requisite. gall, an’ all [ want aire ther perquisite—ther bard doubloons, Thar’s old Duteby—I noticed be had a number of outfits fer gale. Ef 1 could only strike a dicker wi’ him, Reckon thar’s no use 0’ bein’ afeard « tryin’ anyhow.” His strol) soon Lrought bim to the reap ehel of Hans Glockenspiel, ‘The only person presen besides the Teuton was a red-faced man with bushy beard anda cherry-red nose, Who was | leaning against the bar. ‘Vell, vot vou vants now?” Hans growled, as he spied his tormentor of a few hours tefore. ‘Ob! nothin’ much. Jest dropped in ter let ye kno’ I’ve struck a job an’ kin now «fford to masticate two square meals a day at your cara- vansary,” Kit replied, loftily. Kangaroo Kit. Dat ish good, Vot vill you haff?” “Ten dollars out of the till. [never drink. But, lookee here, Dutchy, if you want ther honor o’ caterin’ ter my custom, ye must do me a favor.” ““Nix. I favors nopody. Von mans ‘vas yoost so goot as anodder, veu be heff der tin.” ‘““Ob! but look yer. How much wiil you sell one of them outfits for?’ “Fife tollar, Dey vas cost me ten.” ““What a whopper! Now, lookee yer. ’Fore I kin go to work, I wants one of them aire out- fits. ll go wi’out breakfast an’ give ye a dol- lar on one of them—every red I’ve got. Then, when I git paid, I'll give you the remainder.” ‘*Shimminy gracious! vot you dakes me for? You dinks I vas a fool?” “Nary atime. You are the smartest-lookin’ chap I’ve met in a dog’s age. Why, I’ve heard Presydent Arthur speak of how liberal an’ ac- commodatin’ Hans Glockenspiel was.” “Taffy! Nix! I sells for cash.” ““Ye won’t trust me then?” ** Not off der court vas ’quainted mit hisself.” “Allright, That’s one lowe you. Just wait an’ see how I'll git even wi’ you.” *Vot you mean?” “You won’t know till all at once, Ill make oo wish you was a canary-bird, durned ef I on’t!” ‘*See hyer, boy, what axe want of an out- fit?” the red-faced man asked. ‘To go to work in the diggin’s with. Got ther job already.” ‘*S pose you want ther tools ter-night, hey?” “You hit it.” ‘*Well, you look like a smart ‘un, an’ I kin gi’n yealift. I know wbar’s a purty set o’ tools w’ot no one don’t use. Feller as owned ’em passed in his checks t’other night.” “ Then, spit ber out, an’ I’ll gobble onter ’em, quicker than Christmas!” ; ‘Will ye, tho’? Neow, yeu’re kinder clever, too, S’posin’ ye wouldn’t give yer dollar fer oJ “Yas, Pll do that, perwidin’ thar’s no skin game!” ““Q’ course not. Do I look like a feller as would fabricate? My name’s Sol Shyster, as Hans kin tell ye, bere.” ** Dot vas all square!” Hans assented. ‘Then, spiel out, and the stuff is yourn.” me The dollar, first. I aire allus mistrustful o’ ids, Kit considered a » oment. Might he not as weil run his chances, as to lay cut, of work? ‘*Here’s the dollar. Now let’s beer from ou.” ‘* Waal, Barer you foller up the gulch fill ye cum to a dark varrow ravine, rigbt-band side, *pout three miles from here. Pick yer way up the ravine, till ye cum to a big cedar tree. Climb this, an’ in the crotch, you’)! find the tools, an’no mistake. Ef ye don’t I'll give ye back yer dollar.” 2x t’s fair. "Well, here goes!” The young vagabond from Boston left the restaurant, and trudged away, hopefully, rather enjoying the moonlight night. ’ Ithough already footsore, he did not mind the rough tramp, so absorbed was be with the prospect of getting the work-tools. Being a rapid walker, he covered the distance of three miles in a short time, and found himself at the mouth of the ravine, which was nothing more or less than a deep black seam that rent two mountain walls asunder. The moonlight ‘penetrated but a few yards into it—beyond, the grimest darkness prevailed. “Gosb all fish-hooks! Looks like there might be spooks in there!” Kit commented, pausing to take in the lonely surroundings. *‘Spooks or no spooks, here goes!” * : He boldly entered the fissure, which, in places was barely wide enough to admit the passage of a piek-horse. Al! the way along a shallow stream of water ran over the rough bottom. After a full mile was passed over, the rift struck a transverse seam, while the main pas- sage gradually began to widen, and in a short time Kit came to a big cedar tree. “JT reckon this is my hardware store,” he muttered, looking carefully around, half-sus- Picious that he had been led unwittingly into some trap; but everytbing seemed quiet and harmless, ' The hoot of an ow! was heard further up the ravine, which sounded dismal enough to the sipga res boy. he tree was an unusually large one vith low | | growing branches, and. Was crurcbed about ten feet from the ground. R P Tne K.ingaroo knew he could climb it easily enough, but had no meaus of knowing whether 5 it would be worth his while, for he could not see up in the crotch. ‘‘ Ef that sardine has fooled me, I’! eat m shirt if I don’t git square with him!’ be mu tered. ‘‘I fancy he’s a cut-an’-dried rascal, and Ill yenture that the Dutchy ain’t fur bebind him, Buf, Il! sbin up, and find the tools—if A are there,” ithout much trouble he succeeded in draw- ing himself up among the thickest of the branches, and readily reached the crotch. Sure enough, the tools were there in a large canvas sack—a shovel, pick-ax, pan, pouch, and besides these, a bowie-knife, loaded revolver, and a snuff-box. “Struck luck, by Jinks!” Kit muttered, Tl jest rest here and ex» mine my treasure.” ‘* All but money,” he solildquized, as be finish- ed the inspection. ‘These aire purty new tools, too. The pop an’ the pricker will jest fix me out like a reg’lar miner. Woe be to his jiblets who treads on my corns, now!” He sat a few minutes to rest. The ow! still hooted in the distance. The breeze wafted along that peculiar odor which indicates the approach of a summer thun- der-storm, ar “Guess I might as ‘wéll be joggin’ along back,” Kit muttered, “’Twon’t be many bours till daybreak, now. "Wonder ef thet Harry Hawk won't accuse me 0” stealin’ this lot o’ fix- in’s?’ It would be just like. ’Spect like enough Sandy will get bounced fer given Hawky the salivatin’, Quare lot o’ people they aire in Ghoul Gulch.” He was about to descend from the tree with his prize, when he fancied he heard voices; so be resumed his seat, his heart beating fast with ex, pectation, ‘* Wonder ef I ain’t got myself into a hornets? nest?” the boy from Boston mused, as he lis tened. Ha! There it was again! It could not be the murmur of the wind, It was twe persons in conversation. A couple of moments of suspense—then the voices again. | * They're‘tomin’ this way from further up the gulch, Bet a chew ov spruce gum they’re out- laws, or somethin o’ the sort, and I’m a corpus witbin the jerk of a snake’s tongue,” Footsteps were now audible, and two men soon came to a halt beneath the branches of the cedar tree! Each carried a lighted lantern, and Kit was enabled tomake out that they wefe enveloped in dark cloaks, slouched hats and black pucks They bad scarcely balted, when a man came from the direction of Ghoul] Gulcb, and joined them. He, too, was equipped lke the others; and the Kamgaroo anxiously awaited develop- merfits. ’ a CHAPTE SANDY GETS THE man who came from the direction of Ghoul Gulch, was of about medium stature, while the other two were strapping big fellows. | “Well, captain, how’s things, now?” one of these latter asked, easy ‘against the tree, idly. “ Anything stirring’ * Rest assured on that score; or I wouldu’t be Beret the other responded, chuckling as he spoke; . ' “'THen, out with it, for we're as dull and la as gluttoned buzzards, wi’ hevin’ nothin’ to do. “Didn't ye tackle that case I warned ye of, then?” eh SAR ‘* Waal, we should articulate not! There was nothin’ in it, ‘cept a pair o’ nooses for a pair of galoots of abcut our size!” “You were sensible, then, T suppose you are prepared to go in toes, fingers, nai s an’ tooth- picks. for a job that will pan out big results?” ‘“We? Now don’t talk! Ef ye put us strad- dle of a lead, ef we don’t malt Ws! it hum, our name's not Jack an’ Jill!” “ Well, Jack, Ican put you on a lead, that will pan out better than anything we've tackled yet. You know I told you that Jim Lyons had gone to Chicago?” lee G. “ Well, be’s comin’ back, an’ will reach Gboul Gulch, by stage, about ten o’clock, to morrow night.” ‘Ye don’t say !” “But I do, you know.” ** Does he bring back a fat pocket-book?? “Tf he don’t it’s queer. He took ten thousand in bullion with him, and is going to fetch it back in paper.” “Then he’s cur mutton!” “Of course, Trat ain't all the prize, He “gobbled onto a wife in Chicugo!”
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C “Durn the wimmen! What of her?” ‘“Wait till ye hear. This particular piece o’ petticos aire a rich ’un, an’ I’ve larned she wears suthin’ like ten thousan’ dollars’ worth 0’ diamonds.” , ‘* Wuss an’ wuss!” ‘** Better an’ better, I should calcalate!” Jill gurgled. ‘‘That’s our pot, as sure as thar’s feathers on a shangbai’s foot. We orter make a baul as would fix us up in bizness for a long time to come.” ' fs fetter than that.” , * But say, ain’t it rather risky to’tack the hearse ligbt-handed?” : “TI reckon we’re enuff for it. The night-stage never comes in with more’n two or three assengers. However, Ill find out beforeband. be stage gity to Pineville about five P.M. So I’li telegraph there, about that time, and find out how many passengers the shebang bas got abosrd,” ** Look out it don’t rouse ’spicion!” “Leave that tome. If ye war asold as lam in the bizness, ye’d not trouble yerseif a way. I never was nabbed yet, in all my years of rognery |” : * That ain’t sayin’ you mayn’t be yet. But, capt’in, where aire we-ter ’tack ther hearse?” ‘*Five miles out, where the stage abruptly rounds the Indian Nose rocks, It’s a capital place. .t reaches there at eight o’clock always, unless for some accident. You be there on time !” ‘‘Wull ye be thar?” “ Unless something turns up, more than I know for, at present.” ‘It would ve risky ’tackin it alone.” . **Nonsense, You’ve done it before now. Be there, without fail, well heeled, and don’t let it get »way from yeu,” ‘ ‘‘Reerect, boss! We're to have a ekal divvy, ey?” “Of course. Get back now!” Then, turning, the captain strode swiftly in the direction of Ghoul Gulch, while the other two took up their Janterns and made off in the opposite direction. it had been listening with’ all ears. He comprehended, acutely enough, that those below bim were professional road-agents, and their daring plot fer robbing Mr. and Mrs. James Lyons bad ivspired him with more than ordinary interest. . Perhaps it was bec: use he was about to enter the. employ of Mr. Lyons—perhaps it was because he recognized—or thought he didthe voive of one of the two—tlie voice of Ja‘ k—the one who had conversed the most with the captain. ‘If Pm off my base, I hope I'll be put out of the club,” be mpttéred, after they were gone, using a base-ball pbrase to express his senti- ments. ‘‘f am getting decidedly interested in the keracters that Gboul Gulch pans out. But, there’s work, row, and_ to-morrow night, and Vibe jiggered if T don’t need sleep. So I'll sbuffle or camp,-an’ sleep on the soft side of a sod, tilldawn.” , Descending from the tree he hurried back to the mining-camp, sought out a corner where be was not liable to be disturbed, and was not long in dropping off into a sound sleep. When the six-o’clock whistle blowed, bow- ever, he was at the office of the Lyons Mining Concern, and found Harry. Hawk busy dis- paiching the men to work, Kit came last in the line, and the superintend- ent glared at him in a way tbat would have abashed any ordinayy. lad; bat Kangaroo was cheek-proof to scare, and nodded as familiarly as though he had known his boss for years., “Good-morning, Mr. Rawk! Dash me, but I’m glad to see you looking so well, after last night. "I'were a downright shame fer ye to git itso rough. I’d’a’ bet on you, fer my pile, you poked so sure. Hope you won’t be laid up ng 7 ; The boy’s apparently candid sympathy took Hawk by surprise. : ae ess not, boy,” he said, pleasantly. “That man Sandy—do you like him B ‘“‘He’s a son-of-a-gun. |’ve got a grudge maturing ag’in’ him. I’m watching him like a ean catch him—or implicate bim, do you under- stand—in any croeked action, your fortune is made!” _ “Kerect! I savy! But, where am I to sling my muscle to-day?” ‘Vii put you under Sandy. Watch him like a ferret. ill you doi?” “If I don’t, I'll chaw my own ear.” “Good! Be off now. As long asI see you Kangaroo Kit. are working for my interests against—you know—Il’'ll give you sevenaday. That’s three above the others.” “I’m your mutton then,” Kit declared, danc- ing away. hen out of earshot, be chuckled softly, to himself: “TI ain’t so green as I look, mebbe. Ef thet Harry Hawk ain’t jest a prime old piece of willainy, [ don’t want no grub fera month. Wants ter make me his stool-pigeon too, to work out some mean revenge on Sandy. Seven dollars! Wow-ol! that’s a figger, but et can’t tech me. I'll jest pertend ter be in wi’ Hawky an’ scoop the collateral, while in realit lll not let harm come to Sandy. I can’t fergit thet it was his loose cash what got my stomik on speaking terms wi’ beef an’ pertaters, on my arrival heer. He’s a prime gud feller, but Pll bet thar’s trouble in store for him.” At the diggings he found Sandy setting his men to work at the placer claim, Still anocher gang of men had already gone to work in the drift that bad been tunneled into one side of the mountain, ‘Hello! what’s this?’ Sandy exclaimed, as be saw Kit, ‘ You look as if you meant business.” ‘* Bet I do, old stockings! Had orders to ren- der my elbow-grease under your direction, and heer Lam.” ‘* Who sent you?” “The feller what you salivated — Harry Hawk.” “ That’s strange. He’s hardly the man toshow any one a favor, especially a ‘ae “Ob, the gal did it—yer gal—Miss Laurel. She coaxed him a bit, and he wilted like a frost- bitten cabbage.” “Oh, that’s the way of it, eh? Well, get to work, and let’s see what you can do.” Kangaroo did get to work with a will, and literally ‘“‘boed his own row” with the big- gest of the miners, until the noon whistie blowed, He then sat down upon a bowlder, and rather wit ully watched the iwiners trudge off to their meals. “Come, Kit, are you not going to your din- ner?’ Saudy asked, as be was about tu depart for his own repast. “Nix!” the boy replied, ‘‘Hev ter wait till pay-day for my Vay ll * Nonsense, You trot along up to the Grand Union, fill yer bread-basket t> your satisfaction and jer the clerk who sent you. It will bea right. _ “Much obleeged to you, sir. I'll not ferget er kindness,” and greatly elated at his good ortune, the Kangaroo skurried away. ‘* Where are you now, seven-per-day?” and he langhed as he talked. “Ef ye was a ten, ye couldn’t tempt me ter go back on Sandy.” He took particular pains to pass Hans Glock- enspiel’s place, and found the Dutchman stand- ing in the doorway, ‘Hello, poy! how you vas?” he saluted. “‘ Dinner vas all ready by der inside.” ‘* Ye don’t say so, Dutchy! Well, you ae go right in and git outside of it yourself. 1’m stopping at the Grand Union. No more second- class grub for yoare truly!” Ana he strutted on with the pomposity of a lord-ma vor. The Grand Union was a large frame building with plenty of room, and was as nearly a first- class hotel as oould be found in the mining ee The dining-room was large, and liber- ally furnished, and the meals were bounti and the dishes varied. Kit entered, with several other miners, and was served with courtesy he little expected, considering his dilapidated appearance, and the way he put down the victuals was astonishing to the waiters, “Ef I'm ter sojourn at this caravansary, I'll hev to inwest in some better togs,” he men- ae soliloquized, “This ain’t no half-shell place. After dinner, he went to the office, and men- tioned who had sent bim. That's all right,” the clerk said, suavely. “Call again,” **Reckon mehbe I will; as soon petiny Demnoes aggregate sufficiently, I spect. to stop here reg’- lar,” he announced, On the way back to the diggings, he met Harry Hawk, both of whose arms were in a sling, while a patch of court-plaster ornamented his cheek. “ Well, boy, how d’ye like it?’ he demanded, surveying Kit, keenl “Bully! Feel as n't could knock out a loco- motive, already. pesigthte yy Sony? het aire Bandy are a grouty r, i _— “You'll soon get him down. Py the way, I’ forgotten you hed no money. Step into the office, bere, and Simmons will pay you for to- day’s work,” - Kit obeyed, and then betook himself to the diggings, as be observed: : ‘Hawky is nice as goose-egg om’let. Thinks he’s caught ontoa reg’lar softy. Too bad to collar his shekels an’ deceive him, both—but, be orter know better’n ter pick up a Hoosier boy fer a flat.” On arrival at the claim, be found no one there but Sandy, It was not yet one o'clock, and the miners were lingering about the saloons. : The overseer was seated upon .a rock, evi- dently engaged in deep thought. ‘‘How much per ounce fer yer thoughts? Kit asked, cheerily. ‘Not much, I was day-dreaming.” “Bout ther boss’s gal, bey? n’t blame you. She’s sweeter nor a cucoanut pie, she 1s. Thinks a heap 0’ you, too, 1 reckon.” ** Nonsense. e have known each other but afew days, and are scarcely on terms of inti- macy.” Obit out! Can’t close my lookers. By the way, the old gent is comin’ back to-night!” Sandy gave astart, while a peculiar expres- sion eame over his handsome face, “How do you know this?” he asked, eying Kit sharply. aa What war ears made fur but to hear?” ‘Who did you hear say so?” “That’s my biz. I never gives away ’portant secrets, Give ye one p'inter, tho’, The guv’nor aire fetchin’ back a bride.” : ‘] suspected something of the kind, Hawk has been confiding to you.” “Like Patsy Bolliver went to Congress. That cluse-mouthed rogue hey got too much sense.” ** Perhaps.” ‘““While we’re alone, I want to give ye an- uther pointer,” Kit added, mysteriously. ‘* Hev ye got your life insured?” ‘“Ha, ha! I faney not,” ‘‘Well, ye better gitit. Ye’r’ liable to see trouble afore many moons.” “ Maybe! What makes you think so?” “Case that Harry Hawk is watchin’ fer a sly chance to git :quar’ wi’ ye. He has picked me up as a reg’lar sponge-beaded softy, an” sent me heer ter watch yer fer some action thet. will impeach yer kerrecter.” “Indeed! This is news; tho’ he is villain enough to do anything!” ** Bet he is! g’lar thoronghbred rogue. I et extra wages fer pipin’ you—seveng per iem, How’s that fer clam-bake?” ‘* T suppose you are biti | it?” “ Wouldn't I orter be kicked ef I didn’t? Just. bet I’m scoopin’ in sech snaps.” . “Well, bow have you made ont for bim?— caught me in any criminal action?” ' “Nary sct! D’ye take me fer a mean, dirt nincompoop of a slouch? Ef ye do, ye're off er narrow gage. Ef I go back on you, I hope Taay be ground up an’ stuffed into red-hot bo- logna to be masticated by Dutchmen! When a feller does mea g turn, my name ain't Cbristopber Bricktop ef I don’t stick tighter ter him than perfume tew a pole-cat.” Sandy smiled at the boy’s apparent earnest- ness. > ‘Well, I’m glad I’ve got one friend,” he said. His tone would have seemed to imply that be had but few. ‘ A true friend is more valuable than gold.” “T orter know that,” Kit replied. ‘ But, I say, old stockin’s, ain't thar some obstacle ter ye makin’ headway up thar?’ and be nodded teward the Lyons residence. “Perhaps. Why do you ask?” “'Ca’se I kinder dropped onter the idea. She’s rich, ye know—leastwise ber daddy is— an’ you’re nothin’ but Jaborin’ chap, like me fer instance. I know suthin’ ’bout it myself. Got. mashed on a purty Chinese gal up in Denver, whose daddy war rich; but ’ca’se I wouldn’t let some one flatten my bazzoo, an’ wear my shirt outside of my breeches, the parent said no.” “Your tongue will run away with you some day, boy.” “Not if the court knows herself, and she wruther opine she do. But, lookee here, Sandy, Ima kid, et I fancy 1 know a few pints. Ef e war well fixed in every respect ye’d sail in er Miss Laurel fer all ye was worth.” “Tf 1 had wealth—although J am not exactly a r man—and good social ition, it is true it might be different. I keenly feel the differ- ence iu our spheres in life—the more so since Hawk kindly reminded me of tho fact last night,”
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pe *\ on’t you take no stock in him, He’s after the same chicken you are. Jest ye listen an’ fli tell_ye how to git yer work in on the old man. Jest smooth Ats pin-feathers an’ the gal’s yourn,” Sandy could not help taking an interest in what Kit said, The young vagsbond’s words were so often filled with good sense that the handsome miner was growing to like him. “Go ahead, Kit. e’ve but a few minutes more, so be brief with your discourse,” ‘Well, as 1 war sayin’, ef ye git yer work in onthe old man your stock’s way up. I'll tell ye how ter do it, D’ye know whar ther Injun Nose is?” 4 ‘‘ About four or flve miles to the south, along the s' age trail.” ‘‘Kerect. Well, ther stage, at night, gits to thet place about eight o’clock?” 4 es. ” ‘ Ter-night at eight it will be stopped at that int by road agents and the guy ner an’ bis ovey-dovey will be robbed o’ their ducats and other waluables.” , “The deuce you say! How do you know this, y? ; ‘*T overheard the plot, last night, *twixt three masked men—I reckon ye call ’em road-agents out here,” asste Kit then related the circumstances of his trip to the lone ravine in full. ‘“By Heavens! this is an outrage and we must. ball their little game.” ; “Bet yer ace-flush on that! See the p’int? You an’ me gits ahead o’ road-agents an’ gives warnin’ to ther stage, an’ we'll give the robbers fits. Tbe guv’ner will be so elated that he'll count us as reg’lar out an’ out heroes, an’ that’s how you’il git inter the good graces of bis jib- lets.” Sandy smiled faintly. ** 1m of the opinion we wouldn’t be so greatly liouized as all that, Kit. James Lyons is not the man to idolize a person for doing him a favor. He would be more likely to band us an X apiece and thank us in a polite way, which woe give us to understand that he did uot consider himself under any further obligations to us. However, it is our duty to act, no matter about the consequences, eep this matter to yourself and I will see you after six.” Tie whistle at the quartz mill blew just then, and the men came trudging back to their work. Kit did his full share of labor with the other-, and seemed to rather enjoy his new oc- cu atid. ‘he afternoon, however, seemed to drag slowly to bim. His mind was tuil of their im- nding nocturnal journey, Penne about mk pho Zn ane when Kit spied something that set him agog with excitement, and brought a broad grin to bis face, — Sandy was idly leaning against bis accus- tomed bowlder, watching the men, bis back turned toward the Lyons mansion. f 3 Tripping along, from the sume direction, came Miss een Lyons, elegantly attired, and looking like a school girl at a distance. ** Now, for it!” the Kangaroo,muttered, ing like rolling on the ground and yelling. an explanation follows, and I’m exposed, Sandy give it to me, tho’!” He managed to change his position so that his back was turned to the overseer, for fear Sandy would observe the expression of merri- ment upon his face, Nearer aud nearer approached Miss Angelina, ber movements stealthy and catlike, It Sooked as if she was desirous of taking the overseer by surprise, Sandy, mentally absorbed in one of his day- dreams, was oblivious of everything except his thoughts, and bis watch of the laborers; conse- quently the surprise to him was complete, Miss Angelina reached the back of the bowl- der, and throwing ber arms about his neck, twisted bim Grom and kissed him repeatedly upen the cheek. Fine ery of astonishment that Sandy nttered gtivesteds the attention of the miners, and all bands looked around in time to take in the last kiss of the exceedingly dramatic scene. A roar of laughter was the result! ; Sandy grew asred as a beet, while Miss An- eline’s hug about his neck was evidently there able longer to control himslf, the young Kangaroo lay upon the ground, convulsed with laughter, } ae oose n! Blame if, what do you saath Bondy af length cried in hot anger, and breaking from ber embrace he held ber away ’ : Sores ga ” she cried, reproachfully, feel- “ If won’t Kangaroo Kit. “how cruel you are! My heart is nearly | at present, but I would like ter know who his broken.” ‘*My dear woman, consider yourself lucky that your neck isn’t broken!” the ast unded overseer cried, white’ with anger and mortifi- cation, ‘ For Heaven’s sake, Miss Lyons, what is the meaning of this ridiculous scene?” “Why—why, Sandy, I didn’t know I was doing you any harm. See, love, I have your little red rose, as fresh as when plucked, over my heart—” ‘* What red rose? Confoundit. I—I—” Sandy was too excited fof utterance, con- scious, the while, that the miners were taking in the scene, with immense delight. “ Didn’t you send it, Sandy ’—didn"t you send it as a souvenir of your love for your dear Angeline?” *“Ob! Lord preserve us!” groaned Sandy. **Ob! Heaven, what does she mean? Red rose —souvenir of love—confound it, woman, you're crazy! I never sent you so much as an atom of anything.” “You did! you did, base deceiver! The young gentleman said so, He brought me your declaration of love—he came to break the ice between us!” ‘“‘ Break the ice between us?’ and Sandy was used up. The sweat rolled down his cheeks, and he would have been overjoyed bad the earth opened up and swallowed him, 7 ** What feliow®’ he continued. ‘Who was he? How did he look? Til murder him!” ‘“T—] forget!” Angeline faltered, faintly. ‘So great was the ecstasy of my joy, that I have entirely forgotten him.” ‘Oh! cracky! what a. relief!” thought the young Kangaroo, ‘‘Hope to gracious her memory continues bad. Sandy would, an- nihilate me ef he found out ’twas me as en- gineered the circus,” ‘“You are evidently Jaboring under a fit of meutal derangement, madam,” Sandy declared, trying to control bimself, ‘Tis false. I know what I’m about, and you can’t put me eff with such -pretenses. You’ve won my affection, and then publicly trampled on it. Ob! sir-rh, you shall pay d:ar- ly for this! Every one shall know of your base perfidy, and lll have legal redress in the bar- gain!” and, shaking her fist fairly under bis bose, with unmistakable wrath, sbe turned and burried away. “Go to work, yo the miners, ‘‘ before J shoot some of you. e crazy creature bas clear knocked the breath out of me, What possessed her to assail me in that style, beats my time. I’ve a notion—” ‘So have.I!” snorted Kangaroo Kit, endeav- oring tocon:rol his merriment, ‘Vl bet the broken bones of an old orang-outang, that Hawky has been puttin’ a job up, on you, ter pay fer his last night's lunch.” “Te I thought he had—” Sandy did not finish the sentence, but the ex- pression of bis face spoke better than words, that if such were the case, Mr. Hawk had bet- ter look out for himself. The men went to work, and the remainder of the afternoon passed without incident. Sandy kept his usual position, but his face was clouded, and he was plainly in no pleasant humor. ; “ Look out fer another moonlight fracas, ter- night!” Kit: mused, as be worked away. ‘I kinder wish I badn’t done that thing. Here- after, shoot me ef I don’t fight shy of old maids.” However, when quitting time came, Sandy did not go near the office, but straightway sought bis own rough shanty. This was arelief to Kit, and he went to sup- r, with an easier mind, After supper, he sallied forth, to purchase some cartridges, a cheap flanne] shirt, pair of pants, and a serviceable pair of boots, which nearly exhausted bis day’s wages. “To-morrow I'll try and scoop in a better article of bead-gear,” be muttered, as he betook himself toward Sandy’s shanty. ‘Dunno whether I'll find Sandy in humor for our trip, to-night or not. He had the genuine sky blues the wust kind, this afternoon.” Naturally light-footed he approached the overseer’s humble abode without mucb noise, The shanty was somewhat isolated from the Other habitations, by the handsome fellow’s choice, for he was naturally of a retiring dispo- sition, seldom courting the society of any one. As the boy drew near the shanty, he fancied he beard x oices, zig ; ‘“* Mebbe he has got wisitors, an’ my presence would be obnoxious. I’! not interdooce myself Show bim to me! fools!” Sandy roared_to he | sought your acquaintance, bhnd to the fact of 7 visitor is,” he muttered; and after a brief pause | he stole nearer. As he did so, the voices be- came plainer. | It was a cloudy night; the moon only show- ing itself at intervals: so be readily obtained a | position where he could see and hear without | danger of being noticed. Sandy stood near the door, leaning against a tree. In front of bim was the figure of a wo- man—a graceful-looking person, too. Kit bad as keen a pair of eyes as any one well’ could have, and he leveled them at the female searchingly. ‘‘ Bet a pint o’ cider its the guv’nor’s gal, Miss Laurel,” be muttered. The sound of her voice a moment later cor- roborated his opinion. It_was indeed Laurel! “‘ Now fer sugar an’ lasses!” chuckled the ir- repressible Kangaroo. CHAATER V. A BUSY NIGHT FOR SANDY. “SANDY, what have I done—what have [ said, that you treat me so differently?’ Laurel’s voice demanded. , ‘* Nothing, Miss Lyons, offending me in the least.” ‘““Then—then why are you so reserved—so changed? Have you—have you ceased to care for me, Sandy ?” . Her voice was tremulous with emotion that she evidently tried to bold in check, He drew ber toward him and placed his arm around her waist. ‘“No, Laure), I have not ceased to care for you, nor sball I ever as long as I live, You ave won my affectiou as no other woman You are innocent of could, and once won, it is a victory that will endure to the end of my life.” ‘““Then, why are you so cold--so different from your usual self? Sometbing must have oc- curred 10 bring this change?” : ‘*Something bas occurred, dear, that makes it imperative I skould not visit your home. Consequently, it would not be right in me to seek your company elsewhere.” “And why can you not visit me at my bome? You really must tell me, Sandy!” The stalwart overseer was silent a {@w mo- 4 ments; then, when he spoke, it was buskily: ‘It might as well be explained now as at any other time,” he said. ‘' 1 was faseinated by your dear face and charming manners, and the lial oe hea in our respec ive positions in life. Indeed, i did not pause tozconsider until spurred to do so by the information that your respected futber urgently sy quested that our intimacy should immediate] ‘Ob, Sandy, this isnot true! not say that,” “Twas informed that he did, and when I came to consider that 1 am but a puor working- man, and you a beautiful, cultured young lady of wealth and position, I cannot doubt but that it was your father’s edict. bave loftier a ‘* Hush! bush, Sandy! of this nonsense, What with pepainess! You are ever I, and ove you dearly and truly: so that settles that. Papa is a good, sensible man, and I know be would not object to anything that would add to my happiness, when he sees that I have made a good choice, H ly of you.” ‘That was in the business sense, At the time, I dare say, be had not the least idea of my aspiring to your society, much less to your hand in marriage.” “Never mind. Don’t let this trouble you in the least, love. I will fix everytbing all right, after papa comes home. Now, dear, promise me this: If papa sends you an invitation to call at the house, you will come—won’t you, now?” ‘‘As a matter duty to comply. “Of course you wold and that will be Who told an absurd re- end,” know papa did Naturally, he irations for your future,” Do not believe a word are riches compared bit as good as must e often spoke high- of courtesy, I should feel it my the end of your foretodings. you that my papa made suc quest?” ‘Harry Hawk.” “‘T thought so. You can rest assured that there is not a word of truth init. He is a bad man, ‘Yet aspires to your hand, and his suit is sanctioned by your father!” th « f no means. Father, never once men- tioned such athing to me, and Harry Hawk is well aware that I heartily despise bim, and repulse whatever advances he makes,
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8 Now, you will cheer up, won’t you, and be like yourself again? must go, now, and get ready for the coming of papa, and my new step-ma! A kiss, Sandy, and I’m gone,” He embraced her fondly, and then she burried away, ““Werry well execooted!” the Kangaroo muttered, still crouching in bis concealment. *Ther gal, tho’, has ter do ther most ©’ the manufacturin’, cyt Me as green as a skule- boy at love biz. ess better sneak off, an’ cum up whistlin’, as tho’ no one had been ki wi’in a hundred miles of here.” He suited action to the word, and directly approached the shanty, whistling. “You're late,” Sandy said. ‘ make big time, now.” “Tf Vd been ’arlier, I might ’a’ pervented a smack!” was on the end of Kit’s tongue, but he only answered: “oy guess we kin make it} you lead, an’ I'll foller. . Without further parley they darted away through the gulch, toward the Indian’s Nose, at ell have to a jog-trot. Once Sandy paused to look at his watch. It was haif-past seven. ‘““We may have trouble in getting past the Nose!” he remarked. “‘ At best, we can’t get far beyond it before we encounter the stage.” They increased their speed. Both were good runners, and long-winded, and consequently did not mind the exercise. At the Indian Nose (an abrupt bend in the course of the gulch), the trail curved close around the mass of jagged rocks, from which the place derived its name. The gulch there being quite wide, the two kept to the further side, arid thus got by the proposed road-agents’ a without encountering a soul. ot pausing, they sped on, and re-entered the s‘age trail, about a mile and a halt above the Nose. ' They were by this time beginning to get con- siderably ‘‘blowed,” and came down to a walk. y “The stage is due, already,” Sandy said, looking at his watc>. ‘‘‘Tt's eight-fifteen!” “ [t?s lucky we got so fur,” Kit replied. “We better make as fur as we can, bowever, fer the stage kin be heerd a good ways off, an’ ef the road-agents war to hear it stop, they might smell a mice, and slide off.” “You reason well, Kit!” Sandy assented. “We must try to lay out these scoundrels, How many did you say there would be, of them?” . “Two, sure—mebbe three—judgin’ by what I could hear,” rs ‘* Well, Pll register for two of ’em.” They continued on, for some distance further —then, from afar came the rumbling of heavy wheels. “The stage!” Sandy announced. “ Wemight as well stop here.” “Vas, but thar’s one thing ye’ve fergot!”” “What?” * ‘* Ef we try to stop the hearse we may be tuk fer road-agents, an’ git a hull shot-tower plugged thr'u’ us!” ‘True; but we must manage it somehow,” “‘Thev ther ijee. Build a fire in the middle of the trail, and stand near it. They'll take it asa signal o’ danger, when we wave our head- gear, : “Good! We must be quick about it.” Combustible material was plenty in the vicin- ity at they soon hada large heap of it in the trail. Waiting until the stage was thundering along, close at hand, they applied a match. In an instant, a blaze shot upward, illuminating the surroundings. On came the stage until if'was lessthan a one rs rods away. Then it made a sudden alt, “Hillo, ahead, thar. What’s the matter?” roared tiie stentorian voice of the driver. ‘* Come ahead to the fire!” shouted Sandy. Tae vebicle, drawu by its four-in-band, slowly drew near, and as it once more halted, a man’s head was thrust from the window. ‘“« What the dogs is up?’ demanded Bill Blake, the Jebu, eying Sandy suspiciously. “Who are vou?” — ; “ Road-agents are waiting for you at the Nose, and we are here to warn you,” Sandy replied. “Is Mr. James Lyons aboard “Yes; here I am,” cried the man with his head out of the window. ‘‘ Hello! by my soul! és it you; Sandy?” “Tt is, sir.” “You say there are road-agents ahead?” ’ a Aaa SA SS wa Kangaroo Kit. “Yes, sir. They have designs upon your money and your lady’s jewels.” “The deuce! How did you find this out?” “‘ My companion, bere, Little Kit, overheard the plot between three masked men. He told me, and we came to help you through.” ‘* Your kindness sball not be forgotten, over- seer. Who is this boy?’ “A waif who is working under me—a new arrival.” *“ Ah! Now, about this unexpected trouble. How is it to b ‘averted? “Leave thattome, Take Kit inside of the coach with you. “Ill ride on the box with the driver. We will make the bend at a speed that will defy & hundred road-agents, providing the driver knows how to handle the ribbons!” “You bet I do!” Blake said, grimly; “ an’ there’s nary a team in the mountains that kin tech mine,” “Good! Now, then, Mr. Lyons, when I rap on the top of the stage, you and all parties in- side crouch as low as possible, till you hear from me again, Get inside, Kit.” The boy obeyed; then tho “ hearse ” resumed its journey. Sandy sat on the driver’s seat, on the side from which he expected the attack was to be made. He held a pair of six-shooters in his grasp, and bis penetrating gaze never once left the route ahead of them. ‘“‘ How many have you got aboard?” he in- terrogated. ‘Only the two, besides you fellers.” ‘ Light, ain’t you?” ‘‘@onerally thet way, the trip this way.” “When I give the word, let go around the bend at breakneck speed, but take care you don’t keel us over.” “You bet on that! Thet war the fust thing I Varnt at drivin’—goin’ safely ’round a sharp bend, helly-te-toot!’ They were now close to the Indian Nose. Ahead lay nothing but darkness and uncer- tainty, but Sandy in a sbrill whisper com- manded; “Now, then—let her go!” and at the same time rapped on the top of the coach. Blake had no need to use the whip. All he had to do was slacken on the lines, and the four spirited horses leaped forward with a rush, Around the bend they swept at full speed, the coach careening and running for some cistance on the two side-wheels, , ‘* Halt!” came in a hoarse yell, and a°man leaped in front of the borses, endeavoring to check them in their headlong flight, while a second brigand attempted to clamber up the side of the stage. Bang! . A bullet from Sandy’s revolver went crashing through bis shoulder, and he fell backward to the ground with a bowl. A terrified shriek from the lips of the other ruffian told that he had been trampled down be- neath the horses’ feet. It there were any more of the party, they were Careful to keep well out of sight. The stage rushed on at the same furious rate, until well beyond the bend, when Sandy ad- vised Blake to slow up, as all danger was over, Witbout further incident, the stage arrived at Ghou! Gulch, and after halting at the Grand Union to let Sandy and Kit off, drove on with Mr, and Mrs. Lyons to their residence, ‘Not a word of what has bappened!” Sendy said to Kit in a low tone. ‘By keeping quiet we may possibly be able to drop on the ring- leader of the gang. “That’s so. Guess ther capting didn’t partici- pate in the’tack.” . “I sbould judge not. There were only two that I could see.” “Well, we'll see how the guv’nor deals out his gratitude, ter-morrer, Didn’t even say 83 much as Jack Robinson to me, by Jinks! T’moff fer as nooze. now. Take keer of yerself, Sandy.” **T will, Kit; good-night.” They separated then, Kit entering the Grand Union, and Sandy strolling on toward the Ma- bille, Entering that establishment, he found the usual crowd there as regarded numbers, and nearly all were engaged in games of chance. Carlos de Castra, +s usual suave and polite, moved about bere and there, witha pleasant greeting for new-comers and a supervising eye to business, He was literally as keen asa steel-trap, this oily Spaniard, and it is doubtful if Madam Mid- nigtt could have chosen a better representative of her interests. : ‘ Harry Hawk was wot present, and Sandy con- cluded that he was af the Lyons mansion to welcome back the bonarza king and bride. Sandy was just as well pleased. He felt in an ill-bumor over, what had occurred at the dig- gings that afternoon, and would not have cared to meet the superintendent, lest another quarrel arise that must surely be attended with unpleas- ant results. That he was regarded with glances of curiosi- ty and merriment he was quite conscious, as he sauntered about through the great room, and he knew by this fact that the report of the scene on the flats had received general circulation about the camp. That many believed he really bad been “mashing” Miss Angeline he knew was prob- able, and his chagrin can better be imagined than described. , In sauntering about he encountered the long. gaunt individual Steamboat Steve, who had acted as his second in the street duel. ‘* Hillo, Sandy!” the Mississippian saluted, familiarly. “Just been lookin fer some genial fellow as kin play cards. What d’ye say toa game o’ poker? If you’re as good at cards as you are handy with a shootin’-iron, then I'll lay down my boodle an’sing anthems ov unbounded praise to ye.” Sandy haa not taken a particular liking for the fellow from the first, and he now gave him a sharp scrutiny. ‘* Are you very desirous of losing your cash?” Sandy asked dryly. ‘‘If so, you’ve not met the wrong man to tackle, I fancy ’ve met you before, sir.” “Like enough. Ef ye ever plied up an’ down the old ragin’ Mistissipy, et air more than likely, Ab! bere’s a vacant table. Here, waiter, fetch us a fresh deck, and a bottle of wine.” Sandy was satisfied that the man was a pro- fess.onal card-sharp, but he was not the one to back down before a challenge, no matter what odds he had to contend with. The cards were brought and the wine opened, ‘but Sandy positively refused to touch a drop, apparently much to Steamboat Steve's sur- prise. “No wine? Why bless me, hev I struck a Jokn B, Gough, ’way out here.” “I do not drink!” Sandy replied. ‘ It’s a bad habit, with no good re¢sults, at the best. What is it to be—draw poker?” -*Yes—if you like.” ‘For what figures, as a starter?’ “ A hundred dollars.” “Very good. Here's my stake. Cover it, and cut for deal!” The money was planked, and the ded! fell to | Steamboat Steve. **] see five hundred extra on this hand!” he said, a few minutes later. “] go you two better!” Sandy said, quiet- ly, watching his opponent through his eye- lashes. ‘‘'Mhree more here!” placidly smiled the Mis- ery oes ‘‘ Five additional!” Sandy added. ‘‘And another five from here!” the other echoed. ‘You are a good bluffer,” Sandy observed. “Betore we go any further, I propose we lay down that which talks!” j Witbout a word Stcamboat Steve laid down his stake, in greenbacks, and Sandy did the same. “‘ Now, if you have no objections,” he said, “7 rake in the ay and he spread out his cards upon the table, Steamboat Steve uttered an oath. It was a winning hand! CHAPTER VI. SANDY'S COURSE OF TRUE LOVE. “ARE you satisfied?’ Sandy asked, as he gathered up the isa “Perfectly!” the Mississippian replied, with an attempt at nonchalance, which was clearly assumed, for bis little black eyes gleamed wick- edly. “If I had as much more, I should not be so easily bluffed, however, If your luck con- tinues good, you will eventually get rich!” There was something iv his tones, as he turned away—an underlying meaning, it struck Sandy, which caused the latter to start, and turn pale. He glared after the tall man, witha strange hunted expression; then seized the bottle, an drained it of what contents Steamboat Steve had left. “Curse the fellow!” he muttered, hoarsely, “T fancy he intended that shot for exactly the spot it hit. If I thought—if I was sure—but, bah! Im getting insane on the subject!” . He soon got interested in watching a four- handed game of eucher until twelve o'clock came; ani with it the woman wmwystery of Ghoul Gulch, Madam Midnight.
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Whither she came from, or how she gained entrance to the Mabille, Sandy failed to note, but there she was, at her post at the card-table, looking precisely the same as she did every night, at this particular hour. Sandy did not go near the table, but kept aloof, and watched her narrowly. He had made up his mind t® one thing. If she left the Mabille that night, be was going to find out whither she went, if such a thing were possible. That she knew something concerning his past, he was almost certain; yet, who or what she was, aside from her present calling, he could not imagine, She evidently felt, by intuition, that he was watching her, for she gave him a quick, fur- tive glance occasionally, and as quickly re- turned her gaze to the board. About two o’clock a dispute arose between tween two miners at the bar, which momenta- rily attracted Sandy’s attention. When he again turned his attention to the faro-table, adam Midnight had vanished, A muttered exclamation of vexation escaped him, and he hastily made his exit by the rear way. She's as sly as an eel!” he muttered. “She can’t be but a moment ahead of me!” Without,"the darkness now was dense, and a drizzling rain was falling; but ahead he fan- cied he saw a movin object, after which he hastened with the stealth of a fox, to soon dis- cover that it was indeed Madam Midnight. He bade fair soon to overtake her, when she turned around the corner of a shanty, afd was lost from view. Sandy continuef on, and also rounded the corner, only to tind himself confronting the muzzle of a revolver, held by the gloved hand of the madam. “ Stop!” she warned quietly. “IfI wero you I would not tire myself by trying to play spy.” Sandy could not find the use of his tongue. “*T wouldn’t like to hurt you. What on earth ever caused you to dog my footsteps?” she de- manded, “To find out who you are that knows so much of my past!” : “Whatever caused you to suppose that I know anything of your past?” * T cannot tell you—l hardly know; but I am sure you are in some way connected with my past life.” ** Nonsense!” was all she answered. “And you are evasive as you are mysteri- 3.” ‘** Not at all. Because I have on several occa- sions chosen to show you favor at the faro- table it is not saying that [ am posted in your personal history.’ ‘Pell me who you are and I swear never to divulge the secret, except with your permis- sion,” he said, Lettre? | toward her with eager- ness that was almost fiorcely earnest. c+ laughed at him provokingly. ou go back to camp and forget that your curiosity ever got the better of you,” she re- sponded, ogvisingy. “Tf Lever catch you fol- lowing me again I'll have to shoot you.” “You will!” “As sure as J am Madam Midnight!” “Well, 1 don’t know but what I’d stand a bul- let or two for the sake of knowing who you are. At all events Pll find out sooner or Jater, or my mame ain’t Sandy !” ‘**Maybe it would not be to your advantage to know!” she said, significantly. She glided away and Sandy stared after ber in perplexity, until the darkness hid her from view ; then he turned and sought his own shanty. During the next forenoon, when the men were at work in the diggings, and Sandy was at his usual post, a servant came over from the Lyons mansion and delivered him a note, He tore it open and the following lay befora m: ode ‘Dear Str:—I request your immediate presence { at my residence. Leave the boy in charge. “Yours, ete., “Jas. Lyons.” “All right. Tell the gentleman I will call directly,” he said to the servant. Summoning the Kangaroo he gave bim in- structions, “ Goin’ ter see ther guv’nor, eh?” the boy asked, ‘Look out Angeliner don’t git in yer hair!” ‘Dry up!” Sandy growled. He hurried over to bis shanty and donned some more presentable attire, after which he started for the mansion, feeling more ill at ease than though he were about to face a regiment of enemies, Kangaroo Kit. His ring was answered by the servant that had brought him the note, who ushered bim in- to a pleasantly-furnished parlor, where three persons were seated—Mr, Lyons, Laurel and the new Mrs. Lyons. Ses Sandy, my wife!” the bonanza king said, rising. ‘* Louise, this is the gentleman who so opportunely came to our aid last night!” Both parties acknowledged the introduction with a courtesy; both parties gave a visible start, as their eyes met for an instant, and grew a trifle pale. Mr. Lyvns noticed it, Laurel noticed it, Neither, however, allowed their surprise to find the least expression. Sandy, taking a seat, turned inquiringly to Mr. Lyons, who, aware of the young man’s embarrassment, came quickly to his rescue, ‘* Well, Sandy, how have things been panning out during my absence?” be asked, “Very nicely, sir, I believe. Mr, Hawk, I presume, can ‘give you a better general idea.” ‘*Undoubtedly, sir, but the lazy dog has not turned up, as yet, to welcome me back. By the way, I hear from sis, here, that you two gents had a slight unpleasantness, and Harry came out second best!” and the mine-owner laughed. ‘‘T am sorry to et en was the case,” Sandy replied, bowing. ‘* We had a little dispute, and he grew hot-headed, as did I, and the result was a duel,” ® ‘“ Well, from what I can hear, you served the rascal right. He always was a disagreeable dog, and is more so since he came back to mea few months ago. I am sorry, however, that you crippled him, for I am now out of a clerk and secretary, to say nothing about a superintendent,” **T believe Mr. Hawk continues about the office, sir.” “That may be, but be is not capable of attending to my business in the way I want it attended to, have been considering tbe matter, sir, and the obligations l am dude to you, and i have come to the conclusion that you are the man [ want in Hawk's place, You are, I perceive, well educated, and have a fair capacity for business, and I am confident you would suit me,” “T do not deserve this kind treatment, Mr. Lyons, and I should not like to be the means of losing Mr. Hawk his position.” “That’s my business. Til give him your proses job. It will suit. him much better, in is present condition. Yvu will take charge of the office to-morrow. And now, Sandy, there is another matter we had better come to an understanding about.” A slight flush came to the young man’s cheek. Ho knew well enough what the subject was to be, ** You see,” Mr. Lyons proceeded, “ that Iam aman who makes it a point to speak frankly. Laurel has been telling me that she has had the Lonor of making your acquaintance, and finding you an intelligent man and gentleman, bas formed an attachment for you, and believes that you have for her., She also tells me that Hawk warned you to keep away from here, or risk the Pig of my great displeasure .” ‘‘He did, sir, The quarrel arose from that fact.” ‘Well, now, the matter stands this way: Laurel is my only surviving child, and I have the keenest of anxiety for her future welfare. IT want to see ber married to a worthy map, whose aim in life shall be to make her happy. It is not exactly necessary that this man sball be wealthy, as in event_of my demise, Laurel becomes my sole heir. But I want her to have a mah who shall be not only worthy of her, but shall also be of good name and reputation as a citizen.’ ‘Your desire certainly is commendable,” Sandy replied, earnestly. ‘¢T think itis, Now, as far as I know you, I am well pleased with you, and believe, with Laurel, that you are a worthy young man, Still, as you are aware, we none of us have known you for longer than afew weeks. You might be the greatest rascal in the country, for all we can tell; or, on the other band, might be a nobleman in disguise. We are thus placed in @ p-euliar position, You have never given your real name, and that, in itself, would seem to in- dicate that there was a cloud banging .over your past, which made it necessary that you shoul? remain incognito, Therefore, until you can give us your real name, and some assurance that your character in the past has been and is et above reproach, I cannot feel safe in sfy- ng that [approve of you as a suitor for Lau- rel’s hand. 9 mn ‘“*And you are oie right!” Sandy as- sented heartily. “No judicious parent could favor the union of his daughter with a man without aname. I had a name, once—and was the only son of a most highly respectable family—but an unfortunate circumstance made me an outcast and a wanderer upon the world, I renounced the name belonging to me, and chose that which I now bear, in order that I might lose myself, among strangers, never to be recognized and connected with the past, I have told you all I can tell you—more than I have ever told any one else, As fate has decreed that I shall not mingle with society suited to my taste, I, will do what is gentle- manly, at least—pay your estimable daughter no further attentions than what a passing ac- quaintancesbip warrants.” A trifle paler, but even more noble-looking and handsome than ever, he arose, bat in hand, to depart. . Laurel’s face was turned away, and she was weenie softly to herself. t) r, Lyons was evidently somewhat affected. He arose and put forth bis hand. ‘**Lam more than pleased with your answer, Sandy, because you express the sentiments of a noble-minded man. hat your past bas been, I will not ask. I have every confidence you can some day render a satisfactory explanation. Until then you are always welcome to our family cirele, and I shall, believe me, take the keenest interest in promoting your welfare.” ‘*T am very grateful, sir; more I can hardly say, I think, f will bid you a good-morning.” And bowing, he took his departure. He went back to the diggings, literally a new man. f There saw now no expression of good-nature upon his face—nothing but gloom was there depicted, cit was it, and with more judgment than he geperal} y exercised, refrained from saying any- thing. 3 Khe guv'nor’s Mo him a tigbt fit, 1 reck- on,” be mused. ‘Too bad, Sandy aire a right cute feller, but I suspicion, privately, that be ain’t all he seems—or rather, be’s more. But, there’s something goin’ to drap soon,” and as he resumed his work, bis face was serious enough in its thoughtful expression to show that his mind was ill at ease. 7 During the day the matter of the attempted tage robbery became yublie through the facts being made known by Mr. Lyons, and Sandy and Kit were the hervescf the camp. A posse of men were deputized to visit the Indian’s Nose and bring in the two outlaws, if anything was to be found of them, but the mis- sion was unsuccessful; no trace of the brigands, dead or alive, was to be found. During the afternoon Sandy saw Mr. Lyons standing ‘just outside the cflice engaged in con- versation with Harry Hawk, the superinten- devt. Judging from occasional gesticulations, on the part of the latter, Sandy formed the opinion that Mr. Lyons was making known bis proposed change, : “There will be trouble out of it!” San mused, gs he watched the miners at their work. “ Hawk is as thorough a rascal as one cau pick up, and I know he will strike back witb a wil it E succeed to his position, If be does, he’) not catch me napping. I’ve an idea that he was connected with that stage robbery, but un- fortunately bave no evidence to use against him, And—that woman! By Heaven, 4 time for revenge does not look so far off! W sbe assume the offensive or the defensive? I shall not have to wait long, I fancy, to find out! . - And Kit, too, as he worked away, preserved that thoughtful and withal anxious expression of countenance, He looked keenly at Sandy, now and then; which act the latter noticcd, and wondered what he meant. CHAPTER VII. A NEAT LITTLE GAMB. AFTER work was over for that day, Kit went to the hotei, got his supper and made some slight alterations in bis meager toilet. hen he came out of doors, be found Sandy sitting on the steps of the veranda, engaged in smoking, while he watched the swarm of miners and others who filled the street. “ Ab! is that you, Kit? I was just waiting for you!” Saniy said. “I wanted to have a chat with you.” **Thet so? Well, I’m allers open fer an argy- ment, you bet!” declared the boy. ‘‘Ther’s nothin’ on earth I like ter do better’n wag my
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aa Kangaroo Icit. convivical molars and vocal pendulem, ’cept it’s eat. When it comes to wittles, lm en:phati- cally thar!” ‘Undoubtedly. Come! we will take a little walk up the gulch where we will not be apt to be overbeard, or interrupted.” A few minutes served to take them out cf the camp proper, where there were no dwellings, and they found seats, facing each other, upon a couple of bowlders. Tossing Kit a cigar, and giving him time to light it, Sandy watcbed him, a moment, in- tently. rf Pit he said, finally, ‘‘do you know what my thoughts are, just now—what they have been, all day?” ‘‘ Ken’t say as 1 do, Sandy. “‘ Ye see, I didn’t happen to be born a walkin’ microscope ner a mind-reader,” “May he not. But just allow me to tell you that I believe you are a first-class fraud.” ‘Hu ph! owre complermentary, Ill be darned ef ye ain’t. What’s bitin’ ye? What the blazes have IJ done to make ye thunk it?” “Well, I'm not positive that you have done anything in particular, thus far, but I suspect you're not all you seem. Own up the truth, now. Hadn’t youa mission, that brought you to Ghoul Gulch?” ‘Hol ho! a mission? Yas, you bet I had! Pecuniary circumstances forced me to make an omission of a number uv square meals, and I ett my mission ter come heer in s’arch of grub. ‘‘Evasively answered. Nevertheless, I am not one to be easily deceived. You did not Rr here from Boston, at all. You came from hiougo!” ‘‘Waal, if ye know more ’bout it, then I do, ther’ ain’ no use 0’ me sayin’ a word!” and Kit grinned pk gare ° ‘Am I wot right?” ‘‘Duono! Reckon you ain’t, tho’.” ““Youreckon! You are non-committal. You might as well out with it, for I suspect you, You were sent here to hound me |” “Gis out! You're crazy! Ther idea o’ a young rat like me, a-houndin’ a big feller like ou! The way ye talk, you’d ’most make a eller thunk be do amount to somethin’.” ‘‘Bah! nonsense! You are awful innocent, but |’ll guarantee a sharper young whelp don’t live. Let me tell you, however, that I'll never be taken back to Chicago, alive!” There was astern ring to Sandy’s voice, and a Genety. gleam in his eye, all of which went to prove that he was in earnest. The Kangaroo eyed him, askance, his face still distorted by its irrepressible grin. ‘Ef ye wait till I tote yer back to Chicago, ou’il wait a long while,” was bis answer, ‘an’ now, if you've got thru let’s go back ter ) Tuy well, Please understand this much, however: I know you in your true light, now, and shall govern myself accordingly, You are not here alone. You have 3 confederate. You give bim my respects, and tell him I am not afraid of him!” “ When I se sich a feller, ll tell him!” said Kit, soberly enough. They arose, and went back to amp saying nothing until they came to the Mab lle; then Sandy turned to the Kangaroo, and gave bim a sbarp, searching glance, as if trying to read his innermost thoughts, Kt, I did you a friendly ace.” “Bt ye did, ole stockin’s, an’ I’m jest ther sort of hairpin w’ot ’preciates sech a thing.” “Tf T thought you didn’t, ’'d be tempted to give you pretty bard usage.” * An’ I'd jest let ye apply ther toe of yer boot to ther s ato’ my pants with a vengeance, I would. Squeal out, now. I know yer wanter ax sumthin’, an’ ef I kin retarn ther favor, I'll do it sure es I’m a kangaroo.” ‘[ want you to ay peal answer one qufs- tion. Do you know the person who is known bere as Madam Midnight?” “Ido, There, now, don’t ax me no further, fer sure’s my name is Bricktop I won’t answer ye. Jest ye keep joggin’ right along, mindin’ yer hiz, an’ ye’ve a show ter die rich an’ respect- ed. It’s a good day fer fishin’, but you keep right on boein’ corn an’ the fish won’t bite you,” and without another word the young red-head turne| and strode away. Savcdy gazed after bim with a frown, “[ thonght they were connected,” he mut- tered. ‘ h are undoubtedly detectives, and this Madam Midnight is the head one. Let me see: she was here several weeks ahead of me. Coul : sne have known of my intention of com- ing bere? [rather fancy not. If not, they are Perhaps thev are after Mrs. teamboat Steve.” not after me. Lyons and the fellow, That same night, in the wee sma’ hours, there was a dim light in the front parlor of the Lyons residence, and Harry Hawk paced impatiently to and fro across the richly-carpeted floor. His face wore a scowl, and the expression of at dark, sinister eyes was not good, to say the east. Directly his face brightened, as he heard a light footstep, and the new Mrs. Lyons swept into the room, She wore a waterproof with hood attached, that enveloped her com, Her face, which was one of some beauty, was cold in its expression as she faced Hawk. ‘‘Not a word here!” she murmured, “I gave him a drug, but be may not sleeplong. We must seek a safer place.” ‘““We had better get out in the open air. Steve is waiting outside anyhow,” the dark man answered. ‘There is no one prowling around at this hour, and we can.converse with- out fear of interruption.” He stealthily Jed the way from the house, and she followed, closing the door behind her, They quickly left the grounds, outside of which they were joined by Steamboat Steve. When they halted, they were in close proximity to the spot where the interview had previously taken place between Sandy and Kit. ‘* Well, now, let’s understand ourselves,” Hawk spoke at last, lighting a cigar. ‘I see you bave made your point, Cassie,” ‘* As far as it amounts to anything, I have,” the new Mrs, Lyons answered, ‘‘Humpb! what would you ask for—the earth?” ‘¢Oh, no! What’s on it would suit me better. If you fancy that I’ve fallen intoa bonanza dip, you are wuch mistaken.” “ Explain yourself.” ‘Well, in the first place, you are doubtless aware that we are being most emphatically, perseveringly and determinedly bunted for.” ‘*{ believe lL am. I should hardly have left Chicago, to come bere, if things had not looked suspiciously warm for me there.” ‘I, too, was satisfied for my part,” Cassie de- clared, ‘‘ and Steve bere, bad no reason to be to the contrary, That un fortunate Morton mur- der was too bad. Thank Heaven my name was never brought in connection with the affair, even by my professional name. Well, as I was about to say, when I got to this dull camp, I naturally calculated everything safe, Fancy my consternation, when J had been here only a few hours, at meeting face to face, one of our fattest victims!” “se Who?” “ Dick Douglass. You remember the tenth of last March? Hawk uttered an oath, “ Well, curse my stupidity!” he exclaimed. “‘T could not locate the fellow, until now that you recall that night, although I have bad a notion all along, that we had met before. So, this Sandy is the fellow we cleaned out of the fifty thousand?” - ‘The same.” ** Did he recognize you?” “‘Of course. He is not th= person to easil foruet afoe. So you see the fix we are in, ° could hardly be in greater peril if we were back in Chicago.” “You reckon he'll make it warm for us, then?” “| fear so,” ‘“Maybe two can play at that game, you know. I've got a grudge against the chap anyhow, and I wouldn't hesitate to cyt his roat. “That might not availus now. If he will act, be has already sent for help. I fancy, though, on second bersns that unless he is crowded, he won't precipitate the attack. You see, there’s officers wanting him, too, and he evidently came here to lose himself from the reach of the law.” “Curse him! that’s not going to help bim. The old man bas changed our positions, and put him in my place, If 1 don’: get square with him my name ain’t Harry Hawk.” ‘‘Be careful what you do, Harry. I fear this man more t anI do any of our enemies, A word from him would get me kicked out of my beloved Jimmy’s house, and knock every- thing in the bead.” ‘Well, what’s to be done?” ‘There is but one course plainto me, We must gobble on to all the lucre we can raise and skip. Providing I could get sufficient wealth to out-balance my affection for my dear Jimmy, ‘““Yer sensible,” Steamboat Steve added. ‘* There’s no doubt but we could find hundreds of safer places. I know one thing: I was tracked some distance after I left Chicago, and am not. tive I threw the hounds of the law off my trail, even then. There may bea detective here watching for me this very minute.’ The trio exchanaet glances of alarm. ““P’'m cursed if Llike the looks of matters, my- self,” Hawk growled. ‘‘Once the law gets a grip on us, we’re gone, for there’s certainly old ec enough standing against us to set us to breaking stone for ten years, If you two had only kept away, confound you, l’d have been all right.” ‘*Wouldn’t you, though?’ Cassie sneered. ‘* You'd like us to lift every ing ot of your shoulders. Your kind wishes are likely to strike in and kill you one of these days. No! lam glad we are all together.” “ Why?” ‘‘ Because in union there is strength. We have been eee in many ea little game for gain, and I know we’ll need each other’s co-operation in the future.” “| know one thing,” Hawk growled. ‘“ You always managed to get more than the lion’s share of all the busin ss we did. You can sport around diamonds to the tune of ten thousand dollars, while I'm lucky to bave ten dollars about my pocket.” ‘It’s your own fault. Gambling rarely makes a person ricki, for they who gamble, as a rule, never salt anything away. With me it was different, so you have nothivg to grow] about. Is it decided that we had better pull up stakes?” ‘‘Them’s my sentiments,” declared Steve. ‘*T’'m cursed if I care to be yanked into cus- tody!” Hawk snarled. “Beth of you are sensible. If we can makea big haul before we go, we are all right, Lyons keeps most of his Wealth about bim, outside of the mines, I understand.” “He does. In his ¢ flice there’s a big burglar- proof safe, wherein lays most all of bis ready cash, and it ain’t no small sum, you can bet, Then be has a smaller safe in which be kéeps a few thousand at a time to carry on business witb.” : ‘* Had you access to these safes?” ' ‘Only to the small one, you bet, Only a professional sharp could opep the otber by long ractice and proper tools, for besides the com- ination locks, the old gent always carries a hasp kev, “T dare to presume I could open it,” Cassie cried, her eyes ficaming. “Tt will be the first one I ever failed on if I cannot. It is the same one Lyons has my diamonds locked up in for safe keeping,” “You can bet they’re safe then,” Hawk chuckled. ‘‘The racket will have to be worked with care. If we could implicate Sandy in it, it would be a good idea, and I fancy I cap work it.” “We are listening.” «Well, it will require a couple of days and nights to do it in. To-morrow, or rather, this morning, Sandy takes charge of the office, bas the handling of the cash, and the closing up of the office, and is virtually responsible for the safety of everything. About this time get four bours bence we will meet again, I will enter tbe office and take a couple of tbou- sand dollars from the small safe. Miss Ange- rat meen ong! for ms mansiee aa sl Me aving n put up on her by, I suspect, the young rascal, Kit I can eark bor like a babe, and cause her to denounce Sandy as being the robber out of revenge upon him, I can imitate his handwriting to perfection, or any one’s, for that. matter,” ‘Your idea is good, so far. But go on.” “On the next night, if the land Jays good, you shall have an opportunity to try the bi safe, and if you succeed in opening it, we’ seize upon the lucre immediately and skip. I know of a safe place where we can hide until the affair blows over a little—then, we can go where we deem it the safest!” “Good iden!” Steamboat Steve agreed, “T think so,” chimed in Cassie, ‘1 must get back, for fear the governor might awaken, and that would explode everything.” On the ensuing morning Mr, and Mrs. Lyons ate breakfast alone, Laurel not baying yet come down-stairs, and Hawk baving already gone to the diggings. “My dear,” the bonanza king said, ‘I have something to ask you—something that struck me as being ratber queer when I noticed it, ‘
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When this man-enigma, Sandy, paid me a call yesterday I noticed that when you two saw each other, immediate recognition was observ- able. Will you kindly explain to me how this happens?” ** James, I will, for it is but right you should know,” Mrs. Lyons said, composedly. ‘You see, this Sandy is not Sandy at all, but Dick Douglass, by name. I made his acquaint- ance over a year ago at a reception and learned that he was the son and partuer of a well-to-do Philadelphia gentleman and speculator. He represented the firm in Chicago and bought up grain in their interests for the Eastern mar- kets pbs cid gent supplying the money.” “a ell ? . “After forming my acquaintance, he paid me considerable attention for a while, and I a to look upon bim asa suitor. One night © told me he had just received fifty thousand dollars from his father, with which to catch on toa cornerin grain. The next day he came to bid me good-by, saying he was forced to fly to par's unknown. He had lost every cent of the money at cards, and had written to bis father to that ef- fect; but knowing his father to be astern, un- forgiving man, nothing remained for him but flight. A week later I learned that the elder Douglass was in Chicago, bunting for Dick with a posse of detectives. That’s all 1 know about the matter,” Mf. Lyons looked very much disappointed when he left bis residence and walked toward the office. CHAPTER VIII. A POST-OFFICE TEAR. Sanpy was already at the cffice, and the miners had gone to work, when Mr. Lyons reached there. “Good morning,” Sandy saluted. ‘' Pleasant morning, sir.” “Quite so, I thought I would run down and see how you are getting started.” ‘*T have not done anything more than dis- patch the men to work. In regard to matters within the office, I preferred to receive instruc- tions from you, sir, before touching anything, in order that you might see how things were be- fore I took charge.” “Very sensible of you. and see how Harry has left things. the under clerk?” “He has resigned, saying he did not care to stay, unless Hawk had charge.” “Indeed! That’s rather singular. I have occasionally noticed that be and Harry were pretty thick together. If there is any worthy person you have to suggest as a helper, it is your privilege.” “ Considering the service he has already done you, | should say young Kit was as deserving of promotion as any one,” “'Trne, L bad nearly forgotten the lad. If you think he will answer your ;urpose, you Shal] bave bim.” They then made an examination of the differ- ent books and eccounts, and Mr. Lyoas looked pr d. se ' ‘sh ‘IT see that Harry has larg ly overdrawn his salary, which he het no wutbonity to do, Let it pass, however. I trust my new superintend- eut wil not do likewise.” “You need have no fear, sir. You will find that my conduct of the business will bear the closest seratiny.” ‘*{ hope so. Here are five thousand and one hundred dollars which I leave in the small safe for general business purposes, although it is necessary to use but a small portion of it to meet the running expenses, Here is the key to te combination of the safe.” A tew more explanations were made; then Mr Lvons took his departure, Afier he was gone, Sandy sent for Kit, who direct|y made his appearance, evidently a good deal surprised. We will get to work Where is “ And flunre?” “Bun. Guess I could figger out how many eubes 0 quarter inch blocks would go in a box o’ the dimensions of a squareinch!” * You'll answer, I guess, Your business will be to remain ot the office and do whatever I have to set you at.” ‘‘Kerect. But. how about ther collat, aie “On, that will be fixed all right! What Lyons don’t give you, Pll make up out of my own pocket.’ So Kit assumed his new positiow, and during keeper. At six o’clock, after paying off the men, Sandy locked the safe, put everything to rights, and left the office, taking good care to lock the door behind him, He then sought his own shanty, where he prepared and ate his evening meal. “Hawk took the change very coelly,” he mused, as he seated himself in the doorway af- ter he had finished his supper. ‘‘ What does he mean? No good, [ll vouch. The new Mrs. Lyons recognized me, and since then, it occurs to me that Harry Hawk and the fellow Steam- boat Steve are the same two men who were prowling near her residence the night I was robbed. They are all bere together, and have designs upon James Lyons’s property. Shall I expose them? Or shall I watch and baffle them?” He sat for over an hour in deep thought. “Tf Kit is not bere to spy upon me, be is here for another purpose. Perhaps it is to seize upon this precious bundle of blacklegs, who cleaned me out, and made me an outcast.” When it was dark, he arose and sauntered over to the general grocery store, which also contained the post and telegraph offices. All three departments were run by a dwarfed, little bump-backed individual, with keen eyes and dark complexion, who had the reputation of being as shrewd a business man as Ghoul Gulch boasted of. The store was a favorite resort about mail time, which was when the stage arrived, and among those present as he entered, Sandy be- held the giant who bad acted as referee at the duel, and who had announced himself as Mon- key Mouth, the chaw~em-up, and very appro- priately so, too, The giant’s appearance bad not changed a particle, only that, if anything, he was dirtier and more bloodthirsty-looking than ever. His notice fell upon Sandy the moment he entered, and a glare of hatred entered his blood- shot eyes, ‘ ‘*Thar he air, an’ he’s my roast o’ rib fer a dollar!” he muttered to himself, while he wipvk- ed knowingly at several of Ghoul Gulch’s hard- est cases, who were ruffians of the most pro- nounced character. It was evident that the giant meant mis- chief. ‘**Good-evening, Bondul,” Sandy addressing the store-keeper. answer from that telegram?” ‘“*T did that,” the hunchback replied, handing Sandy a piece of paper. ‘‘ Here it is.” Sandy received it and glanced it over, an ex- pression of satisfaction coming upon his face. / ~ ae message was from Leadville, and read as ollows: ‘Mr. Sanpy. Srm:—I will start at once, with the power to make the arrests, “R, Jayne, Dep. Sheriff.” While Sandy was engaged in the perusal, Monkey Mouth had stolen nearer, with tbe evident intention of looking over the superin- ten‘dent’s shoulder. Sandy anticipated this, however, and quickly put the paver in his pocket. ‘See byar, me bloomin’ voung goslin’, s’posin’ ye let me bev a squint at that air paper!” the giant snorted, putting bis arms akimbo and striking an attitude, ‘*Jest do yer royal uncle ther honor ter let him into yer secret, me duck.” “TI rather guess not, darling,” Sandy re- plied. “I am amply able to digest my own messages,” ‘* Kerwhoop—wow-o! d’ye heer him, now? Sez he won’t let old rampageous Monkey Mouth see thet air dockyment—ther original Monkey Mouth, ther great chaw~em-up of Chico. Oh, thunder! oh, rantankerous alligators! What way shall I annibilate him fer his imperdence?” “Maybe you'd better not adopt any positive plan!” Sandy suggested, ‘1 don’t half believe ou really want to get burt, and therefore, T should advise you not to attempt anything rash.’ ‘*Ye wouldn’t, hey? Ye think I orten git up an’ chaw on ye, like I would a plug of old navy, hey? Then, jest ye waltz out thet aire telegraf dispatch before I walk all over ye!” the giant cried, his aspect growing momentarily more ferocious. ‘* You'll have seme tall walking to do, sweet- ness. before you get that message,” Sandy an- swered, bis composure not in the least ruffled, “T want you to understand, Mr. Chaw-’em-up, accosted, “*Did you get any 8} — — ee that you can’t chaw even one side of me, and as for walking over me, you'll have to wait till the woodbine twineth over my three by six!” ‘* Ye won’t surrender thet message, then, ter me, ther champion scrouger o’ Sorrocco— ther roarin’ cadaverous pestilence from Pineville?” ** Not by a long shot, you big Leal yaa : “Then, by ther great etarnel, |’ll mop this yer floor wi’ ye, till ther ain’t enuff left o’ you ter make a taller dip of!” And with the words, the giant made a leap forward that threatened to carry the young superintendent off bis feet. t did not turn out that way, however. The handsome man evidently bad no idea of becom- ing the bullwbacker’s yictim. His steel-like fist shot forward with a suddenness that was surpris- ing, considering that his arms had nv been folded pin, | Monkey Mouth received a terri-. fic blow between the eyes, that nearly carried him off his feet, ponderous as he was. A bowl of rage burst from his lips, and once more be made a furious rush for Sandy, intent on clinching with bim, but again that catapult. of muscle and bone struck out, and caught the chaw-em-up full in the mouth, knocking several of his tusk-like teeth from the sockets and caus- ing him to reel backward, and choke until he was — ‘See hyer, this ain’t fair!” a quartette of the roughs cried, stepping forward. ‘ We ain’t in’ ter see Monk git abused by no lout of a sport, like you, one time.” ‘*Ob! then your baby elephant isn’t equal to- emergency, eh?’ and Sandy smiled scorn-- v. ‘Ef be can’t lick yer, we kin!” the spokesman cried, whose bandle was Cranky Jim, ‘* We kin show ye thet ye can’t maul whoever ye please, hyer in Ghoul Gulch.” **Indeed! So you think the combined crowd of you brutes possess sufficient stamina to tear’ out a single man, eh? Well, now, you might possibly be mistaken!” And a pair of six shooters suddenly appeared in Sandy’s grasp, leveled at the ruffians, Just how they appeared so suddenly in the superintendent's grasp, or where they came: from, no one present could have given a clear idea; yet there they were, looking at Cranky Jim and his pals pres tening “Take keer thar!” Cranky cried, “ Putu them aire shutin’-irons, wull ye? Ye might le em go off!” * You never told a tigger truth! I did not come here to fight, but if you are bankering. after a scrimmage, I’m jrst the gent to accom- modate you. If you pick me up for a flat, ou're liable todrop me ag’in for a hot flat- ron, “‘T dunno whether we aire or not!” Crank growled, ‘‘ Hi, Monkey! shall we stamp on him?” The giant had by this time sufficiently recov- ered from his discomfiture to take in the situa~ tion. “Kerwhoop! ‘Yes, sail in an’ tear the cussed skunk limb from limb. vo hear? Cut off his bead an’ use et fer a football,” be as “Hurry! I, ther great chaw~em-vup, will head the movement!” ‘*Halt!” Sandy shouted, as they were about: to rush in a bedy upon him. “I give you all fair warning, and you'd better heed it. Death will greet you if you come for me,” me If ye shoot, ye'll be hanged!” cried Cranky m. “* And if I don’t shoot, I'll be banged!” Sandy retorted, ‘* You pay your money and take your choice—so suit yourselves!” The ruffians hesitated, Although they could bave torn the superin- tendent limb from limb with a good will, they were by no means anxious to venture into the: jaws of what promised to be certain death. “At’im!” the giant bowled, ‘ Aire five of us afeard o’ ove ckap o’ thet galoot’s figger? One! two! three! at him /” Freshly inspired, the ruffians, with vengeful: yells, leaped toward Sandy, who stood fearlessly: awaiting them. Bang! bang! bang! ‘ Three times a jet of flame leaped forth, andi almost with the same breath Cranky Jim and two of bis companions drepped to the floor. The fourth wheeled about and ran for dear: life out of the post-office, while Monkey Mouth: paused, with @& baffied oath. ** Shute!” he roared. “Take advantage o’ yer drap, while you’ve got it, yelJow-lived cuss! “No, I'll not shoot!” Sandy replied. “It spare you, for I’ve no desire to kill so worthy & case as you. You're too pretty and sweet to the full ee yet. Face about, and get out of this uilding the liveliest you know how, and all
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| — ee EO will be right. If you disobey me, I'll tell the public who played up—” ‘‘Let up! I call quits!” the giant cried, bis jaw dropping, and a sudden fear seizing him, ““You’re a square cuss, an’ when I say quits, I mean it!” and he left the post-office, his face a study in its changing expressions of fear, baf- fled rage and chagrin, Sandy restored his revolvers to his hip hol- sters, and laughed quietly. ‘*] reckon somebody will have a job at un- dertaking,” be said, addressing the postmaster. ‘You get some one to give these fellows a decent planting, and I’Jl stand the expense.” He then left the post-office and walked away, as if nothing bad happened, The job for the undertaker was not complete, bowever. Examination proved that neither.of tbe three roughs were mortally injured. A bullet had grazed the side of the skull in each insturce, precisely in the same manner and locasion, with only sufficient force to stun the victims, thus proving that Sandy must be a marvelous marksman, So that in a few min- utes Cranky and his two contederates were re- stored to consciousness, The news of the shooting spread all over the camp, and as stories generally go, received mag- nified additions, until Sandy was classed as a dead-shot, and a ‘holy terror’ of the first water. Tbe superintendent, however, was invisible, after the post office affair, much to the regret of the curious crowd. Not long after the shooting, Monkey Mouth, Cravky Jim, and the otber three toughs met, ee outside the camp proper, and not tar from ndy'e shanty. ‘*Now, ter bizness, boys!” the giant said, “We all allow we want revenge on this cussed galoot w’ot calls hisself Sundy? ‘* You set!” the otbers chimed in, * An’ we aio’t no mateh fer him, fair an’ squar’!” *Nary!” Cranky Jim grunted. ‘‘ He could ‘a’ killed us, easy as not, ef he héd wanted to. He's a cuss-on-wheels |” ‘Course he is, an’ our only way ter git even wi’ bim is ter do et om ther sly.” **Right you be,” ‘*T hain’t never wrong, lain’t. Ther galoot ‘feared to hang around town, so bes gone hum ter bed. That’s his shebang yonder, Now, I purpose we fix things, an’ give bim a boost he won’t fergit!’ »“ How d’ye mean?” “* Rasy enuff. Spikey, hyer, has, a duplicate key ter the powder-house. We gits a couple o’ kegs ov giant-powder, aa’ rells ’em in under the shanty, which stands up, on stilts, an’ set em off wi’ a long train, so we won’t git burt. Whoop-ee! won’t the cuss think a cyclone hev struck bim?”’ ‘i Bully! Ye’r’ a genius, Monk!” Cranky Jim cried, .*‘ We does ther trick you bet, and Hawky goes back in ther office to-morrow.” The villains then and there shook hands over their diabolical plan, and set cut to perfect ar- rangements for putting it into execution, ' CHAPTER, IX, _ [HE BIGGEST RACKET OF ALL. ; Two miles down the gulch, from the mining- town, a trail wound up among the craggy mountains, such as might Lave been worn by grizzlies or other animals. _ An old trailer, however, could have easily dis- covered that the trail was traversed by human feet, quite often. , : A figure in male attire came down the gulch, and clambered up the rugged path, which was steep and winding. In ten minutes a rocky shelf was gained, no view of which could be obtai:ed from the gulch, cause of a thicket of firs that grew in front of t, thus concealing it, Opening back into the solid rock of the moun- tain, from the bench, was a cavern somewhat q larger than the ordinary parlor of a dwelling, A fire was burning within, its blaze furnish- dng sufficient illumination to disclose the fact that the interior was rudely but comfortably furnished, ; Vefore the fire sat a young woman, plainly ‘but'neatly attired, engaged in roasting a piece of venison upon the end of a pointed stick. Sae was epparestiy not over twenty years of 4g, and tbe firelight shining, upon her face revealed a glorjous picture of girlish beauty: Tne person upon the ledge stood watchin her a few minutes, admiringly—then, he ne vanced into the cavern, : She sprung up, and uttered a glad litile cry, @s she saw him. ee —————————————— ee ae ee a a 5 ee Ca a ~ co Kangaroo Kit. “Ah! is it you, Kit? Something seemed to tell me that you would be here, to-night. Take sea ” a . ‘‘Bet I will!” Kit assented. ‘‘It takes the atmosphere out 0’ me to climb the trail.” “It is rather a tedious climb, How are mat- ters progressing in Ghoul Gulch, Kit?” “Swimmingly. Jest tell ye, sis, things aire narrowin’ down toa close, an’ we'll soon have to file up our spurs, in true fi’tin’ trim.” ‘“‘ The sooner the better. I am, getting tired of the monotony, ‘o tell the truth,” ‘*Guess things aire narrowin’ down ter a focus. Ye know what I told ye last night.” “ Yes,” .. ‘‘Well, that can’t be helped, I reckon, but the plan can be carried out. As for t’other plan, I paid a private wisit to ther post office arter I were heer,” ‘* How did you make out?” ‘Nothin’ fer us, but I found suthin’ of.im- portance tho’,” ‘*What wasit? Don’t keep me in suspense.” ‘‘Waal, I found a letter lyin’ on the table ‘dressed ter the postmaster. It were evidentl an answer ter sum letter ther postmaster ha written ter some ene, in answer ter a former letter ov inquiry. Heer’s a duplereut copy of He banded her a piece of paper, on which was written; ** CHICAGO, » 188—, “Dear Srr:—The man you describe, in answer to my inguiry, is undoubtedly the one seek. Keep an eye on his movements, and I will pay you well for t, I will arrive in Ghoul Gulch on the 18th inst. “Erastus Dova.ass.” “That is a litteral cappin’ o’ ther climax, ain’t it?” Kit grinned, ‘Ther old man’s as hot arter Sandy as an indignant hornet,” An expression of defiance flashed into the girl’s eyes, ; ‘“ He is all for gold!” she said, bitterly. ‘‘ He will find, however, that he cannot always have things hisown way. Let me see—to-morrow is the 18th?” " oc Yes,” “Well, we shall have to put our wits to- gether and be prepared for the work ahead of us, Kit.” The work of preparing for the destruction of Sandy’s domicile did not consume much time, aod the task was at last ccmpleted to the satis- He aie of the schemers who had planned the ob, Two kegs of giant powder had been stolen from the powder house, and after being tapped were rolled in under Sandy’s sbanty, the floor of which was.a couple of feet or more from the ground, A heavy train of powder was then Jaid from the kegs to a spot some three hundred yards away. Here the five conspirators grouped together, when everything wes ready for the explosion, which was to.send Dick Douglass to ** Kingdom Come,” “Knock teeth down my throat, will he?” Monkey Mouth gritted; with a diabolical chuckle. ‘‘ Shute my pards, will he? , Waal, I should ker-snicker ef we don’t joggle bis senses now!” 4 . ‘ “You bet. . We’ll jest send him up ter shake bands wi’ Satan, an’ pave the way fer others, what is. to follow!” chimed in Cranky Jim. “Wonder ef thar’ll be any meat left on bis bones?” ‘‘Not ernuff to grease a gridiron with, V’ll swear!” grunted another, ‘But, who's goin’ ter tech the thing off?’ asked a fourth. ‘‘We orter draw lots ter de- cide wbo’s ter have ther credit.” ‘*T allows et belongs ver me, since I’m ther prime factor ov this congregation, Ary galoot pists, says I ain’t right, gits chawed up, you This. was a powerful inducement for the others to acquiesce in the giant’s supremacy, and therefore they ass nted to his claim. A strong breeze swept down the gulch, and Monkey Mouth had to strike several matches, before be could keep one lit long enough, to ap- ply it to the powder-train. He suc ed, finally, however, and a streak of fire shot toward the doomed shanty. ‘ An instant later, there was a terrific ex- dew ae and a glare of light, as the shanty flew venward, in a thousand pieces! It was a magnificent spectacle, and the quin- tette of ruffians looked on, rather awed, as they realized what they had done, And though they looked for the body of the sport superintendent, among the flying timbers, they looked in vain. The ruins instantly took fire, and lit, up the scene, as bright as day. ‘Guess he’s blowed all ter grease-spots!” Monkey Mouth granted, ‘‘Come! There’s a crowd comin’ this way, Ther job’s finisned an’ we better git up an’ git!” ‘Haven't you made a little mistake? Ive an idea the job isn’t quite finished!” pene words came in ringing tones from behind them. . They wheeled around, aghast, and as of ony accord, uttered a cry of surprise! ‘ Before them stood Sandy, the light of the firé gleaming upon the polisbed barrels of the re volvers he held leveled in his grasp. ‘‘The job isn’t. finished yet!” he repeated, sternly, ‘* but it will be, when I’m done,” ana his revolver spoke forth the death-warrant ©, the Chico giant. ' Again and again, the leaden messenger calle . its man to account, until, with the fifth repor ,, five men lay stretched out upon the sod, neve , to rise again. , Then, not caring to encounter the crowd thi, flocked toward the scene of the explosion, Sandy turned, and walked rapidly away. The morning following the fire, dawneu bright and clear. Tbe Kangaroo was og hie way to the cflice, rvther eerlier than usua., when he encountered Harry Hawk. The ex-superintendent carried a neatly wrapped package in bis band, and seemed in a more pleasant mood than usual. ‘** Good-morning, Kit!” he, saluted. ‘‘ Where bound?’ { ‘*To the office, I reckon.” tot ‘‘ But you're too early. I say you’ye go time to run an errand for me. There’s a V }y it for you, , Wil: you go?” rot “Dunno. Depends ’cordin’ to circumstances, What is it?” vet “ Why, I want you to take this letter and package to the house, and deliver it to Miss Angelina, or, if she’s not up, tell the servant t6 give it to her. Mind you, it’s a surprise for her, and if you’re ever asked, you're not to tell who gave it to you... Do you understand?” ‘* You bet!” “Well, will you do it?” ‘ For a ten-er!” } “You young scamp! But, never mind} Here’s the cash. Now, off with you, and don¥ let the grass grow vnder your feet!” . - They’re so numerous in size, that no grag e’u’d ever git a chance!” Kit grinned, trotting off, On his.way to the Lyons residence, be eyed the package and tbe letter, with a strange smile. Bet a red herring I kin tell what’s in the bup- dle,” he averred. “I didn’t hear a _nocturna interview all fer nothin’. Sandy, old stockins’s yer prospects luk away below par. But, don’t git down in the mouth. .Wben me an’ sis do make our move, in this game o’ checkers, some- thin’s goin’ ter drap.” __ Arrived at the mansion, he was infcrmed that the fair Angeline had not yet arisen frcm her couch, so he left the letter and package in - charge of a servant, and hurried back to the office, where he found Sandy already opening up, for the day’s business, CHAPTER X. | SANDY IN DEEP DISGRACE. - ‘3 His face did not wear its usual good-natured ex- reeaiens on the contrary, he looked decidedly oyt of spirits. ‘* Hillo, Sandy—I hear they've bin tryin’ ter make a Czar out ov aD Kit Peet Ay “ Didn't know wy war livin’ in Russian Ameriky, whar thar's a load Nihilist under every stick an‘ stone.” ‘**No, I did not. I guess, however, the ones who blew my shanty up will have to Ls their experiments in a different climate, henceforth.” * Cooked their goose, ae ‘*Rather,” Sandy replied, dryly. ‘If T had been in the shanty, I'd have € up, which was just what they intended I'should do.. So I paid ’em off. I expect they’ll not try Nihilism again.’ ‘* Bet they won’t!”’ : “The people. may give me treuble, however” Sandy said, uneasy. < nae a crime, no mé., ter how great a an or wretch may be the v) “Guess the folks don’t trouble ‘emselves mu pre and oar scrapes, in sech localerties lit these. “Maybe it will be different here, tho’ I am nuv sure whether it is known who shot the devils. So you needn’t say anything.” ' During the forenoon a large number of curious rsons passed the office, and took particular pains es look in, evidently to see the superintendent. No attempt, however, was made toarrest him, although
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ee . — _ - ese " —— by sending Kit out upon the street, Sandy learned {iat the killing of the five ruffians, aud the explo- sion, were foremost topics of conversation. M-. Lyons made his appearance at the office about en o'clock, looking rather more grave and sedate hun usual. “What's this I hear about your shooting five men, Sandy?” he asked, seating himself in an easy- chair, *“T am sure I couldn't tell you, sir, not having been out upon the street,” Sandy responded, rather | stiffly. “Well, they say you attempted to shoot three fel- lows in the post-office last night, and failing to co it, you killed them and two others, awhile Pater,” “T presume they who say all this will find some difficulty in proving that,” Sandy responded. *‘ [ ‘are say, too, that it is not of half so much talked consequence, who attempted to blow me to Kingdom Jome,when they supposed me to be in bed,” ; Mr. Lyons made no reply, but took up a paper and began to read, while Kit and Sandy continued at eir office work, which, though not extensive, kept 1em employed during the better share of the fay. All three stepped to the open window, as the fore- pon stage was heard to roll into the camp, for, ‘Sming from the east it usually brought a number »f passengers. -fAmong the passengers, to-day, who disembarked tn front of the Grand Union Hotel, was a short, fat individual, of past middie age, with a smooth face, pug nose and florid complexion. He was well dressed, carried a valise, and had evi- ently come from a distance. “Behind him, and evidently his companion, was other man—a wiry, angular individual, sm ooth- faced, well dressed, and gifted with a habitual watchfulness on either side of him, that would indi- oe him to be either a hunted criminal, or a detec- tive. Kit saw these two men; Sandy saw them; Mr. Tames Lyons saw them. Kit made a sly glancé at the handsome superin- adent, and saw that his face had turned very pale, [t was no matter of surprise to the youth. The man who had first got out of the stage, was rastus Douglas, “Kit, run down to the post-office, and get my ail!” Mr, Lyons ordered, “I am anxious to see Jiow stocks stand!” “Yes, sir,” and seizing his hat, the hoy was off like a shot. Office work was too tame for his nature: he loved to be out of doors, He was hardly gone, when Sandy turned back into the office, and put on his coat and hat. Mr. aes looked at him in surprise. “Hello! what’s the matter, Sandy?” he asked. “ Something has Sy peg Mr. Lyons, which de- mands that [ immediately quit your employ!” was the answer. ‘‘I trust you will pardon me for leav- ing on so short notice, but it is imperative I should 0, at once, Whatever balance of salary is due me, ou can give to Kit, if so you choose.” “ But onda there something remarkable bout this suddefaction?®” © “Only so far, sir, as concerns myself and my past. Give my regards to your daughter, and tell her m affection for her wlll never cease, tho’ miles upon miles may separate us,” He turned, then, quitted the office, and hurried down the gulch, the irregular line of shanties soon liding him from view. Mr. Lyons was sorely perplexed, and paced to and fro, within his office. “What can have caused his sudden departure?” he mused. “ Was he afraid trouble would come of the shooting affair? Idon’t believe it. He is nota man to run from an attack, even though the people were against him, en masse. Perhaps the arrival of = — had something to do with his abrupt depart- re Kit returned, in a few minutes, with a bundle of 1 tters and ere * Hillo! ar’s Sandy?” he demanded, on not seeing the superintendent, his face assuming an OT Yon wit them d I'll tell “You tell me, an you,”? Mr. Lyons re« plied. ‘He left immediately after you did, and ‘nade no mention of coming back, ao case I ever knew.” ie ~! ‘Kangaroo gave vent to a prolonged whistle of surprise. e “Skipped, eh? Well, well!’ ‘He is gone, and I doubt if he returns, as he di- iected me to pay you his back salary.” bau his picter! He’s a square one—ain’t he, Ss , ““A more eccentric fellow I never saw, You go over to the diggings, Kit, and tell Harry I want him, at once, You remain there, and see can ition.”’ Kit hardly liked the idea of this, but seeing no reasonable excuse for Sabina he obeyed. He realized pretty clearly how it was all going. The web was weaving around Sandy as sure as fate, and since he had suddenly taken French leave, the Tibeg of extricating from it looked rather us, ‘The boy went to the diggings, as ordered, and jgade known his errand. ”-There wasa perceptible expression of triumph on "®awk’s face as he hurried toward the office. ‘wane found Mr. Lyons in a decidedly unpleasant umor. “Here I am, sir—what’s wanted?” he asked, on entering the office. “*T want you to resume your former the bonanza king answered gruffly. ‘‘That fellow, it is the most ow well you fellow. lace here!”’ | Kangaroo Icit. ¥ Sandy, has suddenly left my employ, and I judge we've seen the last of him.” ‘Why, ‘pon my word, that’s strange! Did heas- sign any reasonable cause for his sudden depar- ture?” ‘*None whatever,” “ Stranger still. He must have had a prime mo- tive for losing so lucrative a position, Have you looked around to see if everything is all right?” “No. I’m satisfied he is perfectly honest, how- ever,”’ **[ wouldn't take a whole block of stock in the It won’t be no harm to investigate, | sup- pose?’ ‘“‘Of course not. Lookin the small safe; I'll guar- antee he couldn’t open the other ” Bet _ did as directed, his eyes gleaming mali- ciously. He brought forth a small money-drawer, and be- gan counting. : ‘*Phew! Something wrong, as I suspected. Here’s but a handful of money, compared with the usual amount. Dll be shot if he hasn’t gotten away with three thousand dollars!” ‘“*By Heaven! Are you sure?’ Mr. Lyons cried, excitedly. “Count it yourself, sir. There’s two thousand here, less the amount of last night's pay-roll.”’ **This*seems incredible!’’ Mr. Lyons said, count- ing over the notes and coin which Hawk had placed before him, ‘I had great confidence in the fellow, although [had heard a bad report of him since his romotion. He is certainly a Wouble-dyed villain to ake advantage of me so soon,”’ “I should say so. What do you propose to do about the matter?” “ Confound it. I'll make it a bad job for him, if such a thing is pe nee Hang out a placard offer- ing five hundred dollars reward for his capture!” ‘Brother, what is that for—what is the matter?” Miss Angeline stood in the doorway, andit was she who had spoken. ‘Matter enough!” growled the mine - owner. “That scoundrel, Sandy, has skipped out and taken three thousand dollars of my we with him.” “Oh! mercy, what a bad man! I just came te see him. He sent mea package this morning, accom- panied by this strange letter. I didn’t know what to make of it, and I ma thought I'd bring them here and demand an explanation.’ ‘* Let’s see the letter!” Mr. Lyons cried, excitedly. “It may throw some light on the matter of the rob- bery.” Misa Angeline handed him the missive and he opened and perused it, his face growing dark with anger as he did so. i Appended is a copy: ‘‘ Dear Miss Lyons:—I hereby send you a valu- able pare which I wish you to hei for me a few days until [need it. Underno consideration let any one know anything about it, and confer a favor op your true friend, “Sanpy.” “ Let's see the package,” Mr, Lyons said. “ Ihave an idea that the money is in it The package was opened, and, sure enough, there were the three thousand dollars, intact, “IT told you so!” Harry Hawk eried, in triumph. ‘I suppose you're satisfied now that the great and only*Sandy is a thoroughbred rogue,”’ “T am, indeed, although no light evidence would have convinced me. Fix up and post that placard, and make it a thousand dollars reward for his cap- ture, instead of five hundred. If that amount does not secure his capture I will make it ten thousand, but what I will have satisfaction for the way I have been ill-treated.” - “You have the right spirit,” Hawk cried, ig ly. “{ would never rest, if it were me, until I suc- ceeded in bringing the fellow to justice,” Mr. Lyons did not reply, but turned and strode from the office, with a troubled eeprension of coun- tenance—Miss Angeling following him. After they were gone, Hawk fairly glowed with exultanve. “Tt couldn’t have happened better!’ he cried glee- fully. ‘In one stroke everything has been done to a neat turn, and we are safe. Sandy is now an out- law, and dare not return to expose Cassie for fear of being captured himself. To-night we will make an effort to rob the other safe, and the crime will of course be laid to Sandy—long enough, anyhow, for us to get safely out of the country, Victory is ours, and we ought to rejoice!” The report was not long in circulating over the town that Sandy, the handsome superintendent, had absconded with a large amount of money belonging to Mr. Lyons, and a thousand dollars reward was offered for his capture, Of course it threw the people into a great state of excitement, and after the report once got into thor- ough circulation, the street was crowded, and every os discussing the recent strange actions of ndy. Several small parties had set out to scour the sur- rounding eountry. in anticipation of winning the re- ward by brinzing in the fugitive, When the news of the damning charge against Sandy reached Kit’'s ears, he shook his head, a wise eupreneien chasing away the habitual grin upon his ace, “ Ther on | ain’t settled, vit!’ he muttered. **Sandy’s got in hot water, and it’s plain that evi- dence hez been worked purty strong against him. But if me an’ sis can’t git him out o’ ther scr it air purty funny-like. Heigh-hoi I wish ter-day'’s work was done, so I could begin ter move my chess- men toward the endin’ of pot pe The old gentleman, who arrived by the stage, ’ | was Erastus Douglass, of Philadelphia, and Sandy had recognized him, as had Kit. ; Knowing that his father was after him with a warrant for his arrest, Sandy had believed discretion in such a case to be the better part of valor, and had embraced an opportunity to get out of Ghoul Guich while time yet remained. During the afternoon Mr. Erastus Douglass had an interview with the postmaster, after which he paid Mr. Lyons a visit, finding that gentleman alone in his parlor. After introducing himself, the Philadelphian said: “Mr. Lyons, I learn that you have had a young man in your employ who is called Sandy,”’ ‘*Untila very few hours ago | did, and if Tam not greatly mistaken you are his father, as I can discern a great resemblance between you.” “Tam his father, if 1, too, am not mistaken!’’ the old gent answered, ‘1l am Erastus Douglass of Philadelphia, and proud of the fact I am, for there is not another man in that city who comes of. a more aristocratic family, But, most unfortunately, my son Richard is whole different. He isa seape- grace, a defaulter, and a rascel, and I have sworn that he shall have no further liberty to disgrace my name, [have come to arrest him for embezzling fifty thousand dollars I had intrusted him with,” “Tam afraid you wil have to find him before you can arrest him,” Mr, Lyons said. ‘He has greatly deceived me, LI suppose you are aware that he has robbed me as well as yourself?” ‘*So I have learned, That is what brought me to see you. I want to know if there is not some w we can work together in this matter in order to ef- fect his capture.” ‘* None that I know of, other than you might offer an extra reward, if you have any idea that it will avail ap ne The Philadelphian looked disappointed, “Twas in hopes you might be able to throw some light on the matter as to his possible whereabouts. The money you have offered ought to be incentive enough to cause the people to keep a sharp lookout for him, without aking it larger. “Tt is for you to be your own judge in that mat- ter, sir. If opportunity afferds, I shall have your son arrested and the law administered to him in ac- cordance with the enormity of his crimes, That is all I have to do in the matter, I believe.” “I shall take good care he don’t escape, if once he is captured!’’ Douglass declared. ‘I was always a kind and indulgent parent to him, giving him every opportunity to rise and make a mark for himself in the world, and the way he used me was villainous to say the least, and was the means of breaking up my happy home. On the whole I think I shall offer an additional reward, for I shal) never rest until m guilty son is punished,’ and the old gent took his eparture in a se Og “Guilty though Sandy be, Erastus Douglass is certainly an unnatural father!’’ Mr. Lyons reflected after he was gone, CHAPTER XI, ALL FOR PLUCK. Tre news of the robbery was conveyed to Laurel Lyons by Miss Angeline, who, together with the new rs. Lyons, expressed their heartiest satisfaction. ‘I don’t believe a word of it!’ Laurel declared, stoutly. ‘Sandy is a gentleman of honor, and no one could even tempt me to believe that he would mgoP to commit a theft,” “hat is because you are love-blind,” Mrs. Lyo said, sneeringly. ‘‘ Your worldly experience really so, slight as to make your views of but trifl- ing account. You should yield to the superior judg- ment of those who are older than you.” ** What! I acquiesce in your judgment? Well, I rather guess not!’’ was the spirited rejoinder. ‘‘That is because you are vain and ignorant!” . *T am not ignorant and am a lady with a name!” “Do you mean to insinuate that I have not a name?” Mrs. Lyons cried, flushing with great an- er. ac: I believe that no one knows particularly whether you ever had much of a name or not!" Laurel flashed back, her temper rising; for she had con- ceived a deep dislike for her step-mother, ‘ At any rate, to cater a husband you had to resort to adver- tising for one in a poy paper, and my silly fa- ther was goose enough to bite at the bait!’ This was the truth of the matter, and Mrs. Lyons ype furious to think that Laurel should have found t out. «Tis false!’ she cried. ‘I'll tell your father of you, you impudent thing. I'll seratch your eyes out!” ‘*Not at this hour of the day!’ Laurel said, cool- ly as she produced a pistol from her dress pocket, {just want to advise you that I am prepared for you care to make an assault upon me, you, any time you impostor! She turned, then, with o sarcastic laugh, and swept from the room. : Putting on her hat, she left the house, and made her way down to the diggings, where Kit was acting as overseer over the men that were at work, He grinned and nodded as she came up, at the — ime doffing his hat jn true Chesterfieldian style, «Afternoon to yer, Miss Laurel!’ he said. “Shute me fer a eoren ine if I ain't ter receive a wicit from ye eerd "bout Sandy, I suppose?"’ “Yes. It was to see you con the matter, that I came down here. Oh! Kit, it cannet be that it is true about him stealing the money, and running awav?”’ f He’s skipped the tra-la-l I ‘‘Nary time! reckon, but he didn’t steal no collat, and ye kin bet yer life on that!”
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14 ———— = Te pulepeprlagaon * Yet, how do you account for the strange part vabout the money and the letter in his handwriting being sent Miss Angeline!” $i y enuff. IT had ther jegitermut honor o’ bearin’ them same to ther Lyons ranch, an’ ef my memory ain’t all knocked into a cocked hat, I know who give ’em ter me ter tote.” ‘*Oh! Kit, then Sandy did not send them?—there is a plot to ruin him?” “You bet! But, jest you keep as mum as a perarie mouse, Ther hull thing is drawin’ to a close, what will clear Sandy and convict as tart a pet o’ rogues as there is in the whole country. ind, you keep mum, but note who leaves yer father's shanty ter-night arter the camp is asleep!”’ a do as you say, Kit. May Heaven reward you if you succeed in clearing the one I love best in all the world!” **You bet we're goin’ ter try!" “ Who?” “‘We—me an’ ther female mystery of Ghoul Gulch!” “What! Madam Midnight?” “You bet! But, jest ye keep yer tongue frozen be- ‘tween yer purty teeth "til developments — to un- wind. Then thar’ll be a breeze wuss than forty oyclones.” “T am so glad there is a good Laurel's heart was lighter as she too The setting of the sun brought back to the Gulch all who had participated in the search for Sandy. A fagged out of men they were, and what made matters worse, the search had been fruitless, not one trace of the superintendent having been found. : Kit’s mind had not been idle during the day, and he had formed a few opinions of his own. He was not prepared to believe that Sandy had left the vicinity of Ghoul Gulch for good. He reasoned that his aim would be to communicate secretly with — and endeavor to persuade her to elope with m, After supper that night, just as Kit was thinkin of starting for the moun cave, he was accos by a middle-aged man in the bar-room of the Grand bigs who at the same time motioned him to one e. “Are you the young fellow they call Kangaroo Kit?” he asked. *That’s me,” replied the boy. 2 “T thought maybe I could learn of you concerning @ man, Sandy. He direeted me—I'm a deputy sheriff from Leadville—to procure a warrant and requisition from Chi amd come here and arrest three no‘ ed thieves and confidence ple. On my out under the Pie ” and her leave. I'm here after these e8, They’ve sprung a sorter trap on Sandy, but I kin onsp it as easy as song? sp it, an’ don’t ye fergit it! Ter-night is ther time, an Iwant yer help. t tergether a dozen fellers as “Sure as ye’r’ born—all 'cept one feller, who's got ter turn State’s evidence, in order to clear Sandy’s skirts of a couple of charges.” * Have you power to act in this case?” “Bet I have—right from head-quarters in Chi- peg! ore Wull ye be on hand?” “T shall be only too glad to assist you, young man, if you are sure of your game.” “Be I ain't heer’s what'll eat a peck uv b’iled snakes. I’m off, now; so don’t disapp’int me!” and turning, he left the saloon. “Bo so good—a darned sight better, in the he mutte as he made his way out of the camp. ‘‘If Lil and I kin make a double capture now, I opine we’ve got ther cat right by the neck, an’ g Lord won't thar be a catterwauling!” In due time he reached the cave in the mountains, and found there awaiting bim—Madam Midnight. Without delay he made known the events of the day in Ghoul Gulch. “Ther plum is ripe, sis, an’ ef we don’t pluck it ter- night you kin bet it’s goin’.ter fall off ther tree an’ et aig ih calk — yey _ ce =o us, an’ darn me ter do it. rst of all, we've got ter gobble onter ere ad “How is that to be done when we don’t know where he is?" “*T jest tickle my ribs thet I know whar he is lo- ca It’s a tart hiding-place thet I discovered when I were comin’ ter town.”’ o Even if we find him, I doubt if he will give in to “TI think jest t’other way. Leave it ter me ter talk him inter folleriv’ us like a trained pe — git ready, and arm yerself good, an’ let’s be off. The woman accordingly retired behind a curtained ion of the cave, and in due time reappeared Madam ‘Midnight, the owner of the uitted the cave, and descended to bop ee Ape aan of returnin oe 6 town, t e@ way in e opposite ‘ection. In the course of halt an hour he paused, and ted to a little bench on the moun’ ide, some fur, 1 gulch-bottom, truding the ed f the cliff eaaried at over the edge of the cliff, a of revolvers in the grasp of his hands. 2 i EEEEEESNIIIEIns nn | Kangaroo Kit. “ Halt!’’ he ropes: sternly. ‘Come astep fur- ther, and I'll blow your brains out. What do you want here?” . “A feller w'ot looks like you!”’ Kit replied, with a grin. ‘ Didn’t ’spect visitors did ye, now?” “On the contrary, yes, and have prepared a re- ception for ’em,” ‘Not fer us, ye ain’t. We're friends, ye see, in- stead of foes.’ ‘Oh! That won’t work. My eye don’t gloss over fora cent. Go back and tell my father he will never take me alive.” “Neither he will. We've got the hull thing cooked an’ dried, an’ aire goin’ ter feast ter-night. We're jest goin’ ter show ther old man a trick wi’ a tri- angle to it.” **T don’t understand you!” “Know ye don’t. Ye don’t even know yer best friends. e’re two bloods from Chicago, an’ we're goin’ ter prove thet ye were robbed o’ thet fifty thousand! ** How are you to do it?” You'll find out, soon’s we git ready ter make dewelopments. Ye don’t even know thet ye aire ac- cused 0’ robbin’ Lyons’s safe?”’ “T should say not! Who dares to charge me with such a crime?’ ‘‘Money found missin’, after you left. Miss An- eline fetches it to mp wi’ a letter from you tellin’ er to keep it fer ye till called fer.” “ This is infamous!’’ “I should ker-snicker; but, don’t sweat. Yer humble servant, Christopher Bricktop, hes got the bulge. Ther parties w’ot. robbed the little safe, aire goin’ ter tackle the big one, ter-night, calculatin’ ou’ll git the blame fer it. We're goin’ ter scoop em, you bet, an’ let Steamboat Steve hev a’ chance fer his white alley, ef he gives Cassie an' Hawk away.” 1 “How come you to know these people, or of my affairs?’ Sandy demanded, still suspicious and on guard. **You shall learn that when it comes to make a general explanation. Our sole business here is te arrest these thieves, and clear your character of a blemish,” now spoke up the woman. ‘* But, who are ? Lean formrno idea why you should interest yourself in my affairs.’ “Perhaps not. All will be plain to you, in due time, however, Gome! we have very little time to wait, as we wish to lay for Steamboat Steve yet, to- nD " “T don’t know whether I will accompany you or not. I fancy your story is only a detective’s subter- fuge to secure my capture.”’ ‘Nonsense. We could bave taken you long ago, if that had been our desire, I will guarantee that everything is square, and before morning you can prove to yen father’s satisfaction that you are in- noeent of intentionally getting away with the money intrusted to you.” ** Yas, she’s tellin’ Phy genuine Scripter frum ther book 0’ ’Zek’el, Sandy. Ye come wi’ us an’ well fix e out all in shape, so no one will object to your ugein Laurel Lyons!’" Kit chimed in. ‘ — reckon I shall have to go ‘long with you, but if I detect the least sign of py ptm A Tl shoot Age quicker’n scat!” he said, descending toward them. . “To prove to you we mean everything as we have said, when we get back to near camp, you can leave us, and secrete yourself near the Lyons mansion, When you are wanted to ap mre in the vic- tory, the hoot of an owl will give you warning to come to the front of the mansion, where you will “Very well. Lead on.” The ‘ner amy 2 back to camp was made as rapidly as possible, for the evening was well advanced. When the digzings were reached, Sandy branched off toward the Lyons residence, while Kit and Madam Midnight slowly approached the camp. “Now, ther next thing fer us_to do, is to capter Steamboat Steve!” Kit said. ‘‘If any one o’ the gang will squeal on a pal, he’s ther hairpin, every e , “Tam of the same opinion, but how to get him into our power, I cannot see.” “* Well, there’s one plan that may work, You wee! here, and I’ll reconnoiter. I’ve an idea. Hawk wi stay indoors at the mansion, to-night, to prove to Mr. Lyons that he was indoors all night. Such a thought, anyhow, has just occurred to me. I'll go to the Matille, an’ ef I find his jags, Steamboat, thar, an’ Hawksy not there, I'll pump him up with ther idea Hawksy wants ter see him, down the gulch, an’ I'll. show him the way—right before yer shooters. Providin’ this don’t work, I’ll come back, an’ we'll put our heads together ter hatch up some other plan.” f “Very well, you can try. Be expeditious, how- ever.”’ Kit accordingly hurried away. When he arrived at the Madille he found as usual, a large percentage of the denizens of the mines, there, engaged in various games, and quaffing liquor with a zest that only a western miner can betray. A glance told the boy that Harry Hawk was not resent. : 2 Steamboat Steve was, however, and Kit at once approached where he was seated. Hillo! pardner!” he said, slapping the rogue familiarly on the shoulder. ‘Be you the tarrier w’ot Hawksy sent me for?” Steve uttered an oath. ‘*See hyer, what d’ye mean by bein’ so imperdent? Who’re you, an’ w’at d’ye want?” “M baptismal appendix p’ints ter ther name,o’ Chsisophar Bricktop, an’ I were prevailed upen b. one Harry Hawk, in an’ fer ther consideration of . V., ter wait ace a galoot called Steamboat Steve an’ cornduct him ter ther spot where the party o the first part stands wi’ the mantle o' night wrapped around his corporosity !”’ : Steamboat Steve gave a quick, scowliug glance around, evidently afraid that Kit’s volubility would attract attention. “Shet yer devilish trap,’’ he hissed, *‘or I'll throt- tle ye. the way and I’ll foller.” To himself he mused: ‘Ll wonder what’s the racket now? Ten to one Hawk or the woman hes made some cussed bungle stealin’ than I would uv a fly’s preachin’ over a Methodist circuit—would you, now?” “Shet yer head, you brat! How fur’s Hawk waitin’?”’ “A little furder on.” : “Then ye kin skin back; I kin find him, I reck- ‘*Halt! Hands up an’ mouth sbut, or you are a dead man!” a ringing voice cried and two revolvers looked the ruffian in the face, with a loud click. “* Yes, Steamship, old socks, ef ye as much as utter a peep, ye’r’ a corpus!” Kit cried, jubilantly. “You're our prisoner, an’ if ye make a move ter escape, down goes yer apple a-b’ilin’!"’ “Ten thousand devils! What do ye mean? What hev I done?” the ruffian growled, white with rage. Done enuff, Steamer, ter retire!’’ Kit responded roducing some stout straps, ‘‘an' so we concluded r not let ye hev a finger in ther pie to-night at the office. Hawksy an’ Cassie kin attend to that, an’ ef ou know where your neck is j’inted ye kin turn tate’s evidence ag’in’ em! or take the consequences all arranged for yer reception by the sheriff's posse.” CHAPTER XII. A JOLLY ROUND UP. Wen Steamboat Steve learned, by Kit’s words, that the yok to rob the big safe was known, he vent- ed terrible oaths, and worked himself into about as furious a passion, as any ordinary man well could oO. “Careful, now!’’ Madam Midnight cautioned, watching him like a hawk the while, and keepin the muzzles of her revolvers right where he coul look down the shining tubes. “Don’t attempt to escape, unless you are anxious to die. Iwarn you! If you submit peaceably, you have chances of escap- ing the fate that your companions in crime are cer- tain to get. Kit, secure his bands and feet, so that will be im ible for him to budge.” “ You'll git yer hearts cut out fer this,” the ruffian threatened. “Not a bit afeard of it, my steamin’ beauty,” Kit retorted, as he twisted the captive’s arms behind his back, and bound them together din several places, ‘““When ye git up enough steam ter beat a pair o! Chicawgo detectives.ov our perfeshional standing, there'll be hair enough growin’ on yer teeth to keep a barber shop running. We are tke boss, an’ when we git done yer little party o' rascality will be at anend, We've got you, and we kin easily get the rest. How d'ye fancy a trip back ter Chicago, along wi’ Harry and Cassie?” Steve grated his teeth With rage, “Tl die first!’ he hissed. ; “But we ain’t goin’ ter give ye thet aire inspirin’ privelege. We're goin’ ter nurse onter ye, jest like a playful kitten. ere’s but one chance fer yer white alley, and ef ye don’t improve that, I wouldn’t give six cents fer yer chances of missin’ a life sen- tence!” “How d’ye mean?” “Why, this way: Ef ye squeal on ther clear- through y and Cassie, wi’ facts bout how ye plucked Sandy an’ other sech things, that'll be State’s evidence, an’ you go scot free. Otherwise, you'll have to take yer chances wi’ yer two pals.’ “Then I'll squeal! I hev ’bout concluded ter quit this kind o’ life anyhow, tho’ I would hey liked to get a divy of old Lyons’s wad, you bet!” “Undoubtedly. But ye’ll never corral a cent ov that till-tap. ow, ye see, arter we gobble onto Harry an’ ie, we're goin’ ter hev sort of a re- union an’ explanation, an’ you’re expected to make a clean breast of the matter.” “ Bf I do, shall I have protection?” “That's just what you'll git. Face about, now, an’ march down the ch, where we'll tie ye toa tree, out o’ hearin’, ‘til you’re wanted. Remember, if you try to run, you'll get @ shot in the back what'll take your breath!” / Steamboat Steve made no reply, but shuffled slowhy in advance of them, evidently resigned to his ate, a —_ The town was early asleep that night, for one of its wild, wakeful population, for very few lights were to be seen glimmering after one o’clock—even the saloons being closed. About this time, two closely muffled figures in male attire were to be seen standing in front of the Lyons office, in an attitude of liste : The darkness of the night was complete; a person a@ short distance away could scarcely have distin- guished the two figures. They were Harry Hawk and Cassie, and were waiting for Steamboat Steve to come, “The cuss is mighty tardy,” growled Hawk. “I
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pects want you to get into the safe, and be done with the job as soon as possible, If we were to be caught at this, the goose wouldn't hang so high.’ “Bah! There's no danger. There’s no one abroad. The town’s as still as a graveyard at mid- night. This isn’t the first time we've been out on such an expedition.” **No; Iam hanged if it ain’t the last, though,” “It may be for you—I wouldn’t be so positive about myself. Openthe door. There’s no particu- lar use of waiting for Steve, as there's nothing for him todo. He will probably be along while we are at work.” Having the office key, Hawk obeyed, and they = entered the room, closing the door behind them, Lighting a candle, for the shutters were tightly closed, Hawk Jed the way to the huge safe, which reached nearly to the ceiling. *Tcan open that in short order, I believe,” said the disguised woman, beginning to.examipne the combination plate. “Tt is preciscly similar to one I broke into in Detroit.” She went to work in dead earnest. She had bronght some professional's tools with her, and showed plainly by the way she handl-d them that she was an expert at the business. ‘ ‘*How much do you estimate to be in the safe?" she asked. ‘ ‘“‘T have no means of knowing, but_I judge there is a very considerable sum, fOr Lyons is rich, Another thing, I have heard him say the most of his money was in greenbacks.” * That’s go A small amount of coin even is cumbersome!”’ - = mainte the door of the safe stood open, and the plunderin an. Package after eaieee was hauled out of the in- ior, ver There's no time to count it now,” decided the woman. ‘Stuff it into the bag, and we can count it when we get to the house.” Hawk obeyed, and soon had a good-sized bag The safe was then closed and they left the office and hurried toward the Lyons residence, of course not encountering Steamboat Steve, which occurred to them as being strange. “Tl wager he'll be apeatticn 3 around the un a for his wad, an hour later!’’ Hawk growled. ‘* We’l dlivide the stuff, in the parlor, as every one is asleep up-stairs, then I am going to steal a horse, ar d Ghoul Gulch will be far behind me before morning.” ‘So willl. Ihave made all I care to out of dear Jimmy, the poor fellow, and will let some one else try him,’’ Cassie said, with a vicious ee ‘They cautiously entered the mansion, and the front parlor, locking the door after them, No delay was made, then, in lighting a ae and beginning the counting of the money out on the floor. They became so absorbed that no thought of dan- ger entered their minds, . “A hundred egg here,” Cassie announced, stacking up her piles, > The samme here,” Hawk echoed. “ Eureka! what a fat pile! I propose we divy even, and skip by the back way, and let Steamboat Steve smell for his share!" “ Wouldn't that be a racket though ?” It was the unmistakable deep sonorous voice of the Mississippian that uttered the sarcastic query, an Hawk and Cassie gp around in the directio whence had come the voice. Two faces ic Pama pale with alarm, then, and well they might. . The tidine-doces between the front and back rlor stood open, and that end of the room was well lec with people, a number of whom held weapons leveled at the astounded safe-robbers, ’ Foremost among the up were Kangaroo Kit, Madam Midnight, Sandy, Me. Lyons, Laurel, Mr, Douglass, Steamboat Steve and the Leadville deputy, who was ed by a file of men. “ *“ Well, my gay starks, I see we've got ye, hey? Kit said, with a chuckle, ‘ Lay ther hull blame on me an’ Madam Midnight, here. We're ther hull head o’ ther bizness, er gent on ther right, there, he be ther deputy-sheriff 0’ Leadville, an has a war- rant fer ter take he back ter Chicago. So jest let him put the bracelets on ye!” “A million curses on ye alll”” HaWk cried, furi- usly. 7 «‘Thet’s nothin’,” averred Kit. ‘* Edison. is gittin’ up a cursophone w’at'll turn out a billion of ‘em a second. No, sir-ee, Hawksy, an’ ye, old gal, you tackled ther wrong job this load o’ hay. Yer stock's *way down; wouldn’t actually ioe a red cent per c-w-t fer it. Ye’ve played yer last skin game, an’ aire goin’ ter git skinned. Deputy, secure them chickens, then f, Christopher Pricktop, hev a few statements to make, which I think concerns several resent,’? Piflawk yielded to being handcuffed with bad grace, while Mr, Lyons gathered up his wore probably about the most dumfounded man in existence, ‘*Now,then,” Kit. said, ‘*that couple are known in Chicago as two of the cleverest thieves and cracksmen in the city, Steamboat Steve being their confederate. He bas turned State’s evidence against them for the consideratio \ of his freedom. Steam- boat, what are that pair wanted for in Chicago? ee Safe-burglary, forgery, abduction, and various acts of villainy. ** Correct. t one parti case is of interest tous. You see this old gentleman here?” 0. i he is darich speculator, and js hunting 9 son pad oBo away with fifty thousand dollars. Yo see this man, pacer He is the old: man’s mutton. You have seen Sandy before?” Kangaroo Kit, *T have." * Where?" * In Chicago.” “Under what circumstances?" ° * We were workin’ men of means, Cassie made his acquaintance, and he came to see her several times, We were there one night when he called, and learn- ing he was heeled, we drugged his wine, went through him for fitty thousand dollars, and after throwing him in the street a mile away, moved to another part of town.”’ ‘*Is this correct, Sandy?” “Tt is. 1 never could gain frack of them, and knowing father would be unforgiving and revenge- ful, I ,Wrote him I had lost the money, and fled West.” ' “Are you satisfied now?” Kit asked of the elder Douglass. cH suppose T shall have to be, with the best grace possible. “As far as your money is concerned, you shall have every penny of it to-morrow|"’ Madam Midnight said, throwing off her mask. ‘I have made it, and cleared my brother where you would have crushed him; you even drove me from home because I plead- edfor him, I did leave home, went to Chicago, and with the aid of good, brave Kit, ferreted out the whole case down to the present day. Call on me to- morrow, at the Mabille, and I will repay you for Sandy’s loss—since it is money you most want!” A cheer greeted her as she turned and swept from the room, “She’s a clipper!’ Kit declared. ‘Now, Mr. Lyons, I suppose you will admit that-Sandy has been wronged, an’ aire entitled to yer respect an’ confidence?” “Certainly, my brave boy; but how about a robbery, and the love affair with my sis- er?’ Kit burst into a roar. “Bout the luv scrape, J got thet all up, myself, fer devilment, as your daughter, there, knows, The two robberies I overheard planned t’other ni ht, an’ the first one were did by Hawksy, who hired me ter fetch ther forged lotter an’ money an’ give it to the ‘servant for Angeliner., It suited my purpose to } lay off on Hawks, Now, then, Sandy, ye'r’ as clears a whistle, and I wanter see yer kiss yer intended once, fer yours truly, Kit ‘ Bricktop!”’ And Sandy did. The next day, Kit and the deputy sheriff started for Chicago with their prisoners. Cassie and Hawk were subsequently trisd and received severe sen- tences, while Steamboat Steve escaped prison, as was promised, but with a reputation that no decent man would care to own, Erastus Douglass returned East, but before he did so, he willingly received fifty thousand dollars from his daughter. Lily’s object being accomplished, she willingly abandoned the to her distasteful business, 10 kee ‘house for Sandy,who, in time, became an influenti: and wealthy citizen, and married Laurel, of course; while, upon the same happy occasion, L married Mr. Lyons—Cassie having, in the interim, died in ‘It, if not of a*contrite Aw of a broken spi: eart, Kit, after the conviction of his charges, returned West, where his liar energies were soon enlisted in a ‘‘racket,’’with which our readers shall be made acquainted, THE END. DIME DIALOGUES AND SPEAKERS FOR SCHOOL EXHIBITIONS AND HOME ENTERTAINMENTS. Dfhlogues, Nos. 1 to 30 inclusive,” 15 to % popu- lar dialogues and dramas in each beok. 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wood Dick, the Prince of the Road. yovetens Jack. By Joseph E, Badge Ree Fin. By Buffulo Bill, (Hon. W. F. Cody.) ‘he W tld-1 orse Hunters, By Captain Mayue Reld and Captain Frederick Whittaker, Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. By Oll Coomes. Double number, fo cents. Bill Biddon, 4 ‘rapper. By Edward S. Ellis. The Flying Yankee, By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. ae eth Jones 3 or, The Captives of the Frontier, By E.S. Ellis. N By E. S. Ellis, By E. L. Wheeler, ger, Jr. De Ye dyentures of Baron Mune hausen, at Todd 3 or, The Fute of the Sioux Captives. The Two Detectives. By Albert W. Aiken, Gulliver’s Travels. «A Voysye to Liliput, and a Voyage to Brobdinguag, By Dean Swift, The Dumb Spy. By .O}l Coomes, Aladdin j or, " Ww chtartal Lamp. Itob Sea-Cat. By oe ptain Frederick Whittaker, Ra Ss obinson Orusoe,. G Illustrations) By Defoe. h Roy, the Boy Buccaneer, By Col. Prewties Ingraham, = bad the Sailor. From the praia Nights. The Phantom Spy. By Batlak RY he Double-Daggers, By kd a ‘L. Wheeler, ere ee Angel. By Edw ard S. Ellie, 3 N » ye ates nie om ptozm ‘A eee , By J. Lewis. t3 or é Boy Spy of 76. By I’. C, Harbaugh, famond Dirk. By & Colonel Premii: 8 Ingraham, ~ Royer Starbuck. By Edward L. Wheeler, By Ol} Coomes. the ah of the Pistol, By E. L. Wheeler, ae ely Frederick Whittaker. 80 Roaring Ralph i Roe wood. By ap! St. George. BL Keen-h nite, Prince of the Prairies. Oll Coomes. ob Woolf, the Border Raffian. By Edward L. Wheeler. ye Googe, Bloodhound, By S. W. Pierce. ba ale I, iy Captain J. F. ©. Adams, be Wild Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval. By E. L, Wheeler, 86 The Koy Clowm "By Frank S. Finn. 87 The a gon Ledge. By T.C. Harbaugh, 38 Ned W gta i@, the Boy Scout. By Texas Juck. 89 Death-Face, the Detwetive. By Edward L. Wheeler, 40 Roving Ben. By John J. Marshall. ack, the Young Mustanger. By Ol] Coomes. Miner. By Edward L, Wheeler, » the Pony Expresa Rider. By Cupt. Whittaker. 4 Ra ‘alah By Harry St. George Old peg he, the Great Annihilator, Glasa Eye, the Great Shot of the Weat. By J. iF, C. Adame, +4 Nighting ale Nat; or, The Forse | Captalne. luck -erpenty; or, The Boy Robiuson Crusoe, Sicko the Ni , > The Hoy Captain.’ crs ake a eDenon. ntelope the Boy Guide, Buffalo ens ; 39 The Dumb | k the Tra f 51 The if Cae ca, at Deadwood DI By On Coomes, Lie 69 Ol Hickory} or, Pandy Ellis's Scal By Harry St. George. 60 The ory and By-Captain J. F.C. Adana. 1 Satkhorn’s Bll; or, The Red Rifle Team, By E. L. Wheeler. 62 The Shadow ip. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. a The Red Brotherhood. By W. J. Hamilton. Se anes Jack. By T. C, Harbangh. rricane Birt. ot Joseph E. Badger, Jr. oe Single Hand ife forn Life. By W. J. Hamilten Patent-Lent) eae By Philip S. Wire. e Border Robin Hood. By Mpuffalo Bill +4 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter. By Edward Ly Wheeler. © Old Z1o'n Cubin by Gay tain J¥, G. Adaine. it paszere teks the oun Ranger Spy. By OU Coomes, | Tom pA exin Renter y W.J. Hamilton. 3 ad on Dick mn Deck. By Edward L. Wheeler. Huwk-eye Harry. By Ol) Coomes. The Boy Dueli« By Colenel Prentiss Ingmham, Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. *% Albert W. Alken, 5s age 2 Churlie, the Boy Bravo. By E. L, Wheeler, Blue Pick. By Captain Malthe Reid. 79 Sol Gin “h the Giant Trapper. By Albert W. Aiken, PIMpeloeyeyey pal hen 80 Rosebud Rob. By Edward L. Wheeler. $1 Lightning Jo, By Captnin J. F.C, Adams. 82 Kit Harevoot, the Wood-Hawk, By T.C, Harbangh. 88 pate: the Boy Ranger. By Ol! Coomes a4 jgy}p the Girl Miner, By Edward L. Wh heeler. Buckram. By Captain & F.C. Adams. ng Dan Rock, the Man from Texas. By G. Waldo Brown. and Pirates, By Captaiu be Say Reid, +4 rea Phil, the Boy Sleuth. By E. L. Wheeler, So By the ansher of" Jack Harkaway,.” 90 e Dread Rider. By George Waldo Browns. 91 T ¢ Captain of the Club. By Bracebridge Haws ng, 92 Canada Chet, the Counterfeiter Chief. By E heeler, +4 ane ie Miners.” By Edward 8. Elis, it Jnck, the Rogd-Agent. By T.C. Harbaugh, Miva Rovers. By Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. Lye, the Shadow. By Edward L. Wheeler, e Out aw Brothers, By Jobn J, Marshall, bin Hood, the Outinwed Earl. By Prof. Gildersleeve. The Tiger of Twos, By Georce Waldo, Browne. Deadwood Dick in Leadville, By E. L. Wheeler. 101 Jack pian way in New York, Bracebridge Hemyng. 102 Dick Dead-Eye, By Colene! Prentiss Ingraham, 108 The Lion of the Sea. By Colonel Delle Sarn. 104 Deadwood Dick's Device. By Edward L. Wheeler, 7 Old Rube, the Hunter. wy Captain H. Holmes, YY» the Gui y T. C, Harbaugh. rt 4 2 Gia Eros Sim. By lames L, Bowen. 103 During Davy) the Young Buar-Killer. By H. St. George. 09 Ren vood Dick as Detective. By E. L. Wheeler, he Black Steed of the Prairies, By J. L, Bowen. i q ¢ Sea-Devil., By Colonel PreMtise Ingraham, 112 Mad Hunter. By Burton Saxe. 118 Jaek Hoyle, the Young Speculator. By E. L, Wheeler. 114 The Black Schooner. By Roger Starbnek. 115 The Mad Miner. By George Waldo Browne. 116 The Hussar Captain, By Col. Prentiss lugrabam. 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, By Edward L. Wheeler. 118 Will Somers, the Boy Detective, By Charles Morris, 119 Mustang Sam j or, The King of the Plains, By J, E. Badger, 320 The Branded Hand, By Frank Dumont. 121 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. By E. L. Wheeler. 122 Phil Hardy, the Boss Boy. By Charles Morris. 128 Kiowa Charley, the White Mustanger. By T. C. Harbaugh. 124 Tippy, the Texan. By George Gleason. 125 Benanza BiH, Miner. By Edward L. Wheeler. 126 Picayune Pete. By Charles Morris, 127 Wild-Fire, the Boss of the Road. By Frank Dumont, 128 The Young Privateer. By H. Cavendish. 129 Deadwood Dick's Double. By Edward L, Wheeler. 180 Detective Dick. By Charles Morris. + 181 The Golden Hand. By George Waldo Browne. ™ 182 The Hunted Hunter. By Edward 8. Ellis, 188 Boas Hob, the King of the Boetblacka, By E.L, Wheeler. 184 Bure Shot Reth. By Ol) Coomes. 185 Captain Paul, By C. Dunning Clark. ~ 186 Night-Hawk Kit. By Joseph E. Badger Jr, 187 The Helpless Hand. By Captain Mayne Reid. 188 Blonde Bill. By Edward L. W heeler, 189 Judge Lynch, Jr. By T. C. Harbaugh, 140 Blue Blazes, By Frank Dumont. 141 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent, By Ed. L. Wheeler. 142 Handsome Harry. By Charles Morris. 148 Sear-Face Saul, By Oll Coomes, 144 Dainty Lance, the Boy Sport. By Joseph E. Badver, Jr, 145 Captain Ferret, the Now York Detective. By W heeler. 146 Silver Star, the Boy Knight. By O!l Coomes. 147 WIIL W ildlire, tho Thoroughbred. By Charlee Morris, 148 Sharp Sam. By J. Alexander Patten. 149 A Game of Gold. By Edward L, Wheeler. . 150 Lance and‘Lasso. By Captain Frederick Whittaker, 151 Panther Paul, the Prairie Pirate. By Jos. BE. Badger, Jr. 152 Black Besa, Will Wildfire’s Racer. By Charles Morris, 158 Engle Kit, the Boy Demon. By Ol] Coomes. 154 The Sword Hunters, By Capt. Frederick Whittaker. 155 Gold Trigger, the Sport. By T. C, Harbaugh, 156 Deadwood Dick o Deadwood, By E. 1. Wheeler. 157 Mike Merry, the Harbor Police Boy. By Charles Morrig, 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado, By Buffalo Bill. 159 The Lost Captain, By Captain Frederick Whittaker. 160 The Black Giant. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr, 161 Now York Nell. By Edward L. Wheeler, 162 Will Wildfire in the Woods. By Charles Morris, 168 Little Texas, the Young Mustanger, By O!! Coomes, 164 Dandy Rock's Pledge. By George Waldo Browne. 165 Billy Baggage, the Railroad Boy. By Charles Morris, 166 Hickory Marry. By Harry St. George. 167 Asa Scott, the Steamboat Boy. By Edward Willett 168 Deadly Dash, By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 169 Tornado Tom. By T. C. Hurbaugh, 470 A Trump Card, By Charles Morris, 171 Ebony Dan. By Frank Dumont, 172 Thunderbolt Tom, By Harry St. George. 178 Dandy Rock's Rival. By George Waldo Browne, 174 Bob Rockett, the Boy Dodger. By Charles Morris, 175 Captain Arizona, By Philip S. Warne. 176 The Boy Runaway. By Lieutenant H. D, Perry, U.S.N. 177 Nobby Nick of Nevada. By Edward L, Wheeler, 178 Old Solitary. the Hermit Trapper. By Oll Coomes 179 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runnér, By Charles Morris, 180 The Sea Trailer. By Lieutenant H, D, Perry, U.S.N. 181 WHd Frank of Montana. By Edward L. Wheeler. 182 Little Hurricane, th» Boy Captain. By Ol] Coomes, 188 The Hidden Hand, By Charles Morris, 184 The Boy Trailers, By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 185 Evil Eye, King of the Cattle Thieves, By Frank Dumont 186 Cool Desmond. By Colonel Delle Sara. 187 Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy. By Charles Morris, 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy. By T. C. Harbaugh. 189 Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. By Charles Morris, 190 Dandy Darke. By Willlam R. Eyster. 191 Buffalo Billy, the Boy Bullwhacker. By Capt. A. B, Taylor. 192 Capt Kit, the Wi'l-0’-the-Wisp. By Lieut. Perry. 198 The Lady Road-Agent, By Philip 8S. Ware. , 194 Buffalo Bill's Bet. By Captain Taylor. 195 Dendwood Dick's Dream. By Edward L. Whieler. 196 Shadowed. By Charles Morris. 197 Little Grit, the Wild Rider. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 198 Arkansaw, th» Man with the Knife. By T, C."Marbaugh. 199 Featherweight. By Edward Willett. 200 The Boy Bedouins, By Capt. Frederick Whittaker. 201 The Black Hills Jezebel. By Edward L. Wheeler, 202 Prospect Pete, of the Boy Brigade, By Ol) Coomes. 208 The Boy Parda, By Joseph EF. Badger, Jr. 204 Gold Plume, the Boy Bandit. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom. By Edward L. Wheeler, 206 Dark Paul, the Tiger King. By Charles Morris. 207 Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Huntér. By T. C. Harbaugh. 208 The Boy Hercules, By Oll Coomes.. _ 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective. By Edward L. Wheeler. 210 Faro Frank*of High Pine, By William R. Eyster. 211 Crooked Cale. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 212 Dashing Dave, the Dandy Metective. By Charles Morris. 218 Fritz to the Front, By Edward L. Whee'er. 214 Wolfgang, the Robber ef the Rhine. By Capt. Whittaker 215 Captain Bullet, the Ruider King. By T, C. Harbaugh. 216 Bison Bill, the Prince of the Reins. By Col. P. Ingraham, 217 Captain Crack-Shot. By Edward L. Whevler. 218 Tiger Tom, the Texan Terror. By Oll Coomes. ‘s 219 Despard, the Dueliat. By Philip S. Warne. : 220 Tom Tanner, Scalawag and Seapegrace. By Chas. Morris. 221 Sugar-Coated Sam, By Edward L. Wheeler, 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport. By Col Prentiss Ingraham, 228 Ozark Alf, King of the Mountain. » By Edward Willett. 224 Dashing Dick. By O11 Co mes — 225 Sam Charcoal, the Premium Darky. By Charles Morris. 226 Snoozer, the Boy Sharp. By Edward L, Wheeler. 227 Dusky Darrell, Trapper. By EB, Emersons - 228 Little Wildfire. By Ol! Coomes. 229 Crimson Kate. By Colotel Prentiss Ingraham. 280 The Yankee Rajah., By C. Dunning Clark. 281 Plucky Phil, of the Monntain Trall. By T. C. Harbaugh. 282 Gold-Dust Dick. By Edward L. Wheeler. 288 Joe Buck of Angela, By Albert W. Aiken. * | 284 Old Rocky's ““Boyees.” By Buckskin Sam. 235 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy. By Charles Morris. 286 Apollo BIH. By Edward-L. Wheelers 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. By Col. Ingraham, 288 The Parson Detective. By 01 Coomes, 289 The Gold-seeker Guide, By Onptain Mayne Reid, 240 Cyclone Kit, By Edward L. Wheeler, 241 BiH Bravo and His Bear Pards, 242 The Two “ Bloods.” By Charles Morris. By ‘1. C, Harbaugh. 248 The Disguised Guide, By Ol! Coomes. 244 Sierra Sam. By Edward L. Wheeler. 245 Merle, the Middy. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 246 Glant George. By Buckskin Sam, 247 Old Grizzly and His Pets, By Capt.“ Bruin” Adams, 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret. By Edward L. Wheeler. 249 Milo Romer, the Animal’King. By Capt. Fred. Whittakes. 250 The Midshipman Mutineer. By (0). P. Ingraham, 251 Light-house Lige. By Captain J. F.C. Adams. 252 Dick Dashaway. By Charles Morris. 258 Sierra Sam’s Pard. by Edward L. Wheeler. 254 The Half-Blood, By Edward S, Ellis, 255 Captain Apollo, By T. C, Harbaugh. 256 Young Kentuck, * By Captain Murk Wilton, 257 The Lost Hunters. By Capt. J. F.C, Adams, 258 Sierra Sam’s Seven, By Edward L, Wheeler, 259 The Golden Harpoon, By Roger Starbuck, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, By Oll Coomes. 261 Fergus Fearnaught. By George L. Aiken, 262 The Young Sleuths, By Charles Morris, 268 Deadwooltl Dick's Divide, By Edward L. Wheeler. 264 The Floating Feather. By Gol. P. Ingrahani, 265 The Tiger Tamer. By Captain Fred, Whittaker, 266 Killb’ar, the Guide, By Ensign Warren. 267 The Buckskin Detective. By T. C, Harbaugh,. 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. By E, L. Wheeler. 269 The Gold Ship. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 270 Blizzard Ben. By Captaln Mark Wilton. 271 The Huge Munter. By Edward S. Ellis R72 Minkskin Mike. By Ol! Coomes. 278 Jumbo Joe. By Edward L. Wheeler. 274 Jolly Jim.. By Charles Morris. 275 Arizona Jack. By Buckskin Sam. 276 Merle Monte’s Cruise. By Colonel Prentiss Ingrahatos. 277 Donver Doll, By Edward L. Wheeler, 278 The Three Trappers. By Major Lewis W. Carson. 279 Old Winch, the Rifle King. By T. C, Harbau 280 Merle Monte’s Fate. By Col, Prentiss Ingruham.. 281 Denver Doll’s Victory. By Edward L. Wheeler, 282 The Typo Detective. By Edward Willett, 288 Indian Joe. By Major Lewis W. Carson. 284 The Sea Marauder. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, 285 Denver Doll's Decoy. By Edward L. Wheeler, 286 Josh, the Boy Tenderfoot. By Capt. Mark Wiitem 287 Billy Blue-Eyes, By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 288 The Scalp King. By Captain J. F.C. Adams. 289 Jolly Jim’s Job. By Charles Morris, 290 Little Foxfire. By Ol] Coomes. 291 Turk, the Ferret. By Edward L, Wheeler. 292 Sancho Pedro. By Major FE. L. St. Vrain. 298 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper. By Captain Comstock. 294 Dynamite Dan. By T. C. Harbaugh, 295 Fearless Phil. By Edward Willett. 296 Denver Doll’s Drift, By Edward L. Wheeler. 297 The Tarantula of Taos; By Bockskin Sam. 298 The Water-Hound, By Charles Morris, 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. By Edward L, Wheeten 800 The Sky Demon. By 01! Coomes, 801 Leadville Nic’ By Major E, L. St. Vrain. 802 The Mountain Detective. By T. C, Harbangh. 808 "Liza Jane, the Girl Miner. By E. L, Wheeler. 804 The Dead Shot Dandy. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham 805 Dashaway, of Dakota. By Charles Morris. 806 Neck-Tie Ned. By Major H. B. Stoddard. 807 The Strange Pard. By Buckskin Sam, 808 Keno Kit, the Boy Bugler’s Pard. By Col, P. Ingraham, 809 Deadwood Dick’s Big Deal. By E. L. Wheeler. 810 The Barranca Wolf, By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 811 The Roving Sport. By Edward Willett, 812 Redtop Rube, the Vigilante Prines. By Maj. E. L. St. Vrait. 818 Cimarron Jack, By Frederick Dewey. 814 The Mysterious Marauder. By Col. P. Ingraham, 815 Ned, the Cabin Boy. By Juck Farragut, 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizoia, By T. C, Harbaugh, 1817 Peaceck Pete. By Lieutenant Alfred Thorne. 818 Ker-whoop, Ker-whoo! By Bockskin Sam, 819 The Black Rider, | By Joseph E. Badger, Jr, 820 The Sea Sorceress, By Jack Farragut, : 821 Deadwood Dick’s Dozen, By Edward L. Wheeler. 822 Nemo, the Detective. By Edward Willett, 828 Arkansaw Jack. By Harry Hazard. 824 Ralph Ready, the Hotel Boy Detective. By pe Morris, 825 Feltey, Hick pokey < | & Company; the Sleuths of Phtlade}phia, 826 The Te Ten wees or, The Terror of Take-Notice, By I. C, 827 émbpee Oat, the Caddo. By Buckskin Sam, 828 The Sky Detectives, By Major Mickey Free, 829 Red-Skin Tom. By Harry Hazard, 880 Little Quick-Shot. ' By Edward L. Wheeler, "881 Black Nick, the Demon Rider. By Capt Fred. Whittakens 882 Frio Fred. By Buekskin Sam, 888 Brims Lette By Mork Lot. Visi ehtning Horse Quar- 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. By E. L, Wheeler, 885 Old Double-Fist. By Joseph E. Badges, Jr. 886 Big Benson, By T. C. Harbaugh, J A New Inene Every Week. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, &¥: eonts per copy, or sent by mal! on recetpt of six cents each. ! BEADLE AND ADAMA, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Yor&