Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 344) (1884 02 26)
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1m see ee Ca aj, Nollaellststalafalallllalatalaah yer (| RT Bay 7 f WA MD we yy \ Pra Can tt i alan a AND ADAMS, at ne I strana. Naor sane aS ne ji2).! Se Single PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, Vol. XIV. wanker. lg 2s eagle eg acer PF ins No. 344, THE FIGHTING TRIO: or, RATTLESNAKE, THE TONKAWAY, Pat : BY “BUCKSKIN SAM”—Major Sam S, Hall, j AUTHOR OF ‘“‘OLD ROCKY’S BOYEES,” ‘‘ GIANT GEORGE,” ETC., EPO. ui Ep - “SHAKE, PARD! AN’ EF ANY OV US AIR SCROUGED INTER KINGDOM COME, UITLL BE IN A GOOD CAUSE.”
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The Fighting Trio; Rattlesnake, the Tonkaway. A Tale of Texas. BY MAJOR SAM. 8S. HALL, (BUCKSKIN SAM,) AUTHOR OF “FRIO FRED,” ‘‘CREEPING CAT,” ‘(THE STRANGE PARD,” ETC., ETC, CHAPTER I. THE LINE OF DEATH. Tuer Rio San Saba, Texas, runs for seventy five miles, from Fort McKavett, almost due east, and then, swerving northeasterly, empties its waters into the Colorado, about thirty miles from the turn. On either side of the San Siba, the whole length of this singularly siraight course, stretch afar, north and south, vast open prairies, covered with rich luxuriant grass avd flowers; as fine grazing grounds as are to be found in the world. The river is lined on each side with towering bottom timber, moss-draped and vine-covered ; while. beneath the undergrowth is dense and mingled with curious cacti and torturing thorny shrubs. Here and there, through it, are narrow paths, formed by buffalo and xnustangs; these animals entering, to quench their thirst, in line, one after another. Even at noontide, the sun never penetrates these dense shades, except at intervals; and consequently it is comparatively cool within the timber, even in the hottest days of the year. The waters teem with fish, and that greatly prized delicacy to a borderman, the soft-shell turtle, with its long snake-like neck and head. Myriads of bright-plumaged_ birds, fill the woods with their joyous songs by day; while the hoot of theowl, and the flute-like notes of the mocking-bird of Mexico are heard at night— the latter, in pleasant contrast to the shrieking of panthers and howling of wolves. An earthly paradise was and is the border of the Rio San Saba. The description given is that of two decades ast, and it remains the same, with the excep- ion that the mustang and buffalo are now few and far between, and the shriek of the panther far less frequently breaks upon the night. It was in the spring of 1859 that a small wagon train, consisting of six white-tilted “ prairie schooners,” each drawn by eight Span- ish mules, advanced slowly around the bend in the San Saba, from the direction of the Nolorado, and continued west, near to and par- allel with the timber. The sun was just sinking in the west, a great round ball of sanguine hue, its power, as well as its heat, curtailed by a thick haze, peculiar to the latitude at that hour. In the first wagon were four negro women, with thi ir children, the latter a dozen in num- ber, and nearly all quite small; the mules being driven by the husbands of these women, who, mounted upon one of the *‘ wheelers,” drove vith a single rein, as was common on the bor- PP. A glance into the remaining three wagons would have revealed the fact that they were taden with supplies of all kinds, as well as house- hold furniture and agricultural implements, A bundred yards in advance of these wagons, rode two men, perfect contrasts in appearance, dress, and manner. One of these men was tall, robust, and com- mandiug in mien, and straight as an arrow, although he could not be less than sixty years of age. His hair and long, thick, flowing beard were white as the driven snow, his face was ruddy, his eyes blue, and his countenance agreeable to look upon. He wasevidently a giant in strength, and had a decidely military bearing. He was clad ina serviceable suit of gray mixed home- spun, and was belted with Colt’s revolvers and bowie, while a Sharpe’s carbine bung at his gaddle-hora, He rode an iron-gray horse, of large size, and marked for endurance more than speed. Allin all, he was the picture of an old-time Southern gentleman, and such he was, being, as one who might have met the train would have su d, the owner of it and of the slaves, is companion, like the horse he rode, was most peculiar, to say the least, He was a man of medium stature, with but little fiesh upon his bones; his skin, deep tanned The Fighting Trio. by sun and a thousand camp-fires to the hue of that of a Mexican. Fe had a sharp nose, beetling brows, and thin beard; but the most Lotieaann feature was the absence of cne, His left eye was missing, and the deep cavity that remained was more comical than disagreeable to observe. This singular and angular-looking being was clothed in much soiled and tattered buckskin breeches, and a dirty blue woolen shirt, open at the neck; an old and battered black sombrero and rough boots completing his attire. A brace of old-style Colt’s army “sixes,” and a huge bowie, were sustained about his waist by a strap, that bad evidently been a piece of | mule’s harness. These, with a Sharpe’s carbine and a bullet-pouch, made up his outfit in the way of arms, The horse was in perfect keeping with the rider, and, strange to say, had like him but one eye; bufthe animal was large and long-limbed, and was evidently a beast that could make a long and fast run, did occasion require it. The first man, whom we have described, was Major Simon La Coste, an old soldier of the Texan and Mexican wars, in the service of the Lone Star Republic before annexation, and also a volunteer in the war between the United States and Mexico later on. Having previously settled in a section of Texas, where he had lost large numbers of cattle and horses by a protracted drought, be- sides meeting with many other reverses in business, the major had sold out, ‘* pulled-up stakes,” and resolved to establish a home on the San Saba, of which he had heard most flatter- pag ak is herds of stock he had caused to be driven slowly westward, and they were now some fifty miles in the rear of his wagon-train, It is needless, however, to explain further as to the major’s past life and future hopes. All that will be revealed, as the narrative pro gresses, The companion of the old soldier was none other than ‘‘ Single-Eye,” a celebrated ranger and scout of the Lone Star State, who had been engaged as guide for the ‘ outfit,” but who bad protested, every mile for the: last ten leagues, against proceeding further, asserting most em- phatically that the major was a “ headstrong fool,” to peril the lives of his slaves and family by advancing beyond the junction of the San Saba and Rio Colorado. All this, howevér, was without avail. For full a hundred yards had the rearmost wagon proceeded up the river, after rounding the bend, when a Covestoga wagon, drawn by four mules hove in view, on their trail. This was driven by a negro lad, some fourteen years of age. On the binder seat of this wagon was a rosy- cheeked matron, the major’s wife, and beside her a hatchet-faced woman, the maiden sister of the old soldier. Both ladies had a decidedly worried air. The name of the soured spinster was Lavinia La Coste, familiarly known as ‘‘ Aunt Lavine.” It was evident that the anxious look on the faces of the ladies was not due to fear. It was rather one of deep concern, in regard to some one of their party who was not yet visible. Around the bend, easterly, the river wound in many an abrupt turn, forming in some cases pe large spaces of clear grass-grown coves— if we may so call them—surrounded, except at the entrance, by towering trees. Into one of these natural flower-gardens, we must now ask the reader to follow us; something like half a mile on the back trail from the wagons. Lovely indeed is the scene—a mimic Eden— and there is one angel at least within its con- fines. In the middle of the open space stands a milk- white pony, idly cropping the flowers and grass, and at times pricking its ears forward, then backward, and tossing its head quickly up- ward, as if some sound warned it of danger. Upon the back of this pony sat a mosi beauti- ful girl of some sixteen summers, Of petite form, with long and wavy golden hair, which bung free and unconfined below her waist; with light-blue eyes and a complexion like the blush-rose—such was Lula La Coste, the fair daughter of the gallant major. There was an exquisite refinement, a loveli- ness that was almost unearthly, manifest at the first glance at the little beauty, whose pensive air now enhanced her ethereal appearance. Wholly wrapt was she in contemplating and admiring the beauties of ber surroundings, be- traying an artistic taste that was in consonance with her own loveliness; as was also the grace of her every motion as at times she listlessly tossed her head to throw back the stray tresses” of gold which fell over her brow by the impa- tient motions of her pony. The fair girl was clad in a dark-blue riding- habit, and a hat, trimmed with the same color and decorated with prairie flowers, was beld in her hand. She held also a silver-mounted rid- ing-whip, but the reins hung free upon her pony’s neck, Thus sat Lula La Coste for fully five minutes, gazing at different points of the timber. Then she glanced down’ at the flowers that peeped from the grass, in evident admiration at so much that was new and strange to her, The pony showed signs of a rapid if nota long gallop, but its panting bad somewhat sub- sided at the end of the time designated, the maiden having evidently halted as much to rest the pony as for any other object. Soon she became aware of the darkening of the bend and the approach of night. A buge, gaunt wolf darted from the under- growth for several yards toward her, and then sluok back again with an angry howl, With a half-stified outcry of fear and dread, her lovely face paling, Lula clutched the reins as the howl of the wolf broke upon her ears; but there was little need, for the pony gave a snort, and whirling half about, shot toward the narrow entrance of the horseshoe-shaped space, nearly unseating its fair rider. She gezed backward with bated breath, to- ward the point where the wolf had appeared and disappeared, in dread apprehension; but she was suddenly called upon to again clutch at the saddle and the mane of her little steed, for the beast made an abrupt balt, rearing upon its hind hoofs, its ears pointing forward, and snorting wildly, while the animal trembled in every limb. The face of Lula La Coste became ghastly as death, and her features contorted in fearful horror. She strove to shriek aloud, but the effort was vain. Across the open space was stretched a line af fierce, paint-daubed Indians, mounted upon prancing, half-wild mustangs, and now shooting glances of wonder, bordering upon superstitious awe, at the angelic girl who with difficulty re- tained her seat in the saddle, so frantic with ter- ror was her milk-white pony, its violent rearing and prancing causing the long, golden hair of Lula to fly wildly around-her slight and grace- ful form. Thus the snake-like eyes of the hideous sav ages remained fixed upon her, It was a strange scene. A being seemingly too pure, too beautiful, too angelic for earth thus confronted with such a sight of horror~ ber escape cut off by a line of most demoniac- looking warriors of a hostile race, and less of earth, in face and expression, than of the infer- nal regions, CHAPTER II. GONE FROM THEIR GAZE. Whitt as a statue of marble was Luia La Coste; her eyes starting from their sockets, in dumb terror at the sight of the horde of hideous braves that barred her exit from the bend, thus cutting ber off from her father and mother and from all hope. Paralyzed and incapable of thought and mo- tion was the fair girl, her brain for the time be- numbed; otherwise sbe would have fainted, and fallen upon.the flower-bedecked sward. | Not a word was spoken among the grim war. riors, neither did any make a motion; each bold- ing firm to the jaw-strap to keep in control, as far as was possible, their wild-eyed steeds. All seemed so deeply impressed that neither spoke to bis neighbor. The white pony seemed to have lost that pow- er of reasoning which bad caused it to fly from the vicinity of the wolf; its snorts and prancing and trembling proving its extreme terror at the strange sight and the strange scent that had so suddenly greeted ifs eyes and nostrils. It seemed an age to Lula that ber pony faced the hellish horde; she, meanwhile, being incapa- ble of making the slightest movement or exer. tion to guide the animal from the spot. But suddenly it seemed to comprehend that it was in its power to fly, and whirling half-about, it bounded toward the swell of the bend, At the same instant the spell upon Lula was broken and she gave utterance to a piercing cry that caused her pony to spring forward with in- creased velocity. As the animal whirled, “ughs” and ‘‘ waughs” issued in deep, guttural tones from many a throat; at the same time quirts kissed through the air and cut with torturing whacks
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Oy a ‘* about the hams of the roustangs that now bound- od into the air. On, like demons let loose, the hoofs of their animals flying through the tall grass and flow- ers, cutting the stems from the roots and fling- ing them afar on all sides, so terrific was their speed, came the horde of mounted braves. On, without a yell or a whoop breaking from their savage throats; naught except the rattle of the arrows in their dry buffalo-skin quivers, the tinkle of the silver trinkets in their hair and upon their leggins, the continuous “‘ swish” of ‘hoofs tbrough the tall grass and the snapping of thousands of stems, which resembled the rush and crackling of the flames of a burning prairie —sounds that curdled the blood in the veins of the poor girl and which seemed to her the . taunting whispers of Death, and the rattle of teeth in his fleshless skull—giving warning of their march. Vain, however, were the frantic efforts of the red braves; in vain wen the torturing quirts applied, for the white pony was terrified and bent every muscle in the race to escape the strange and dread objects in its rear. Weill knew poor Lula that the run was hope- less, but she was powerless to control the fright- ened beast. Ahead there were only the dense, dark shades, and beyond that leafy screen the dark rolling river; although how far beyond, she knew not. Lula realized that the pony would reach and plunge into the undergrowth before the Indians could prevent it; and she clutched at the ani- mal’s mane, turned her eyes beavenward, and cried out from her inmost soul: ‘Father in Heaven! Look down upon and reserve Thy child! Save me, oh, save poor ula!” The next instant with a snort of mingled re- lief and fright the pony plunged madly into the undergrowth toward the river. Lula, expecting every moment to have her ‘brains dashed out against a limb, closed her eyes and muttered whispered prayers in the extrem- aty of ber terror. Ou crashed the pony, yet the maiden dared ‘mot open her eyes, _ On, in the rear, dashed a score or more of snorting mustangs, amid the whisk of limbs and branches, and the cracking of twigs and bushes. On, until the poor girl could no longer keep her eyes closed, A fascination that she could not resist, a con- sciousness that some dread danger was in her immediate front, although she could not ac- count for this belief, forced her to open her -eyes; knowing, or believing without a doubt, that death in a horrible form, or a worse fate was coming fast behind her, and yet impressed most strongly and forcibly that the same threatened ber in fron, To the surprise and joy of the poor maiden, although she could not tell why, the view gave her relief. The upper disk of the red sun be- came suddenly revealed to her vision; the op- posite side of the river at this point, for a short distance—evidently the path of a cyclone— being clear of timber, In the excitement and terror that ruled her, Lula lost all thought of the river however; her brain being filled with dread and horror at the sounds of pursuit so close behind her, thus re- calling to her mind the hideous horde who had barred her way of escape from the bend, and who were now in bot pursuit of her. For the moment she forgot the chilling sen- sations, the strange emotions that had caused her to open her eyes believing death to be directly in front of her; the next, however, the same were recalled, flashing like lightning through her mind, for before and beneath her, not more than twenty fect distant, ran the Rio San Saba, the waters turned to seeming blood by the farewell rays of the setting sun, the op- posite bank being low. A fringe of bushes lined the edge before her, which prevented the pony from observing the river, but over which its rider could see. Instinctively the affrighted maiden threw her whole weight backward upon the reins, her eyes starting in terror, her face the pallor of death; the Indians being, for the instant, banished from her mind. But ail ber strength, call her efforts were futile; for, the next instant, the pony, at terrific speed, sprung into and through the bushes, shooting out over the bank, and then, with a far-sounding plunge, throwing the waters upward in a shower of blood-like ay. PThen poor Lula La Coste and her white pony disappeared beneath the surface of the waters ef the San Saba! A minute afterward, the psint-daubed, eager ¥ me \ an ena a4 “3 # The Fighting Trio. braves dashed up, and sat their panting mus- tangs upon the bank, gazing downward in won- der, and then at each other. And well they might, for naught caught their view except the head of the pony, and its back, as it swam desperately, quartering against the current, toward the opposite bank; there being but a short space in the same where the animal could gain a footing, and emerge from the river, Guttural cries of astonishment and supersti- tious awe barst from one brave, and then an- other; for well they knew that the ‘white squaw” ougbt to have come to the sarface at the same time as did the pony. Some pointed their fingers toward the water, shaking their heads in a negative manner, and then toward the sun; the chief saying, as he made a gesture toward the now setting lumi- nary: “Squaw got face like white rain that falls in land of Sioux. Got bair like sun. Child of Great Spirit. Gone back to sun. It is good, Coyote is a Comanche chief. When Comanche chief speak, his words good, Coyote has spoken.” : Raising his hand in warning, as some of his breves loosened lassoes, sprung from their mus- tangs, and were about to jump into, and swim the stream, to secure the pony, he added: “* Are my young braves fools, that they go for the little horse of the daughter of the sun? ** Let them beware, or the bad spirit will fol- low their trail. The lasso, they would throw at the horse, would fly back, and choke them. ‘“‘Our corn would not grow. The buffalo would run to the hunting-grounds of the Sioux. The grass would wither, and the squaws and pappooses die, did the little white horse breathe upon one brave of our trail. Coyote has spoken.” The young warriors stole back, their faces filled with superstitious fear and self-condemna- tion, as they stood, hiding from the view of their chief, behind their mnstangs. As has been mentioned, all bad been greatly and strangely impressed by Lula La Coste; her angelic beauty, golden hair, and milk-white pony, filling them with wonder, But her shriek and flight had banished this to some ex- tent, and all had started, at the orders of their chief, to capture her. No sooner, however, did they reach the river- bank, knowing that the little steed had bounded over it, and tnen seen it swim to the opposite shore, and disappear in the undergrowth be- yond the open space through which the sun had shot its farewell rays—no sooner did they see this, than all their superstition was re-awaken- ed, and increased tenfold. Certain it was, that the white squaw had been upon the white pony when the animal made the plunge, and just as certain was it that she had disappeared, leaving no trace. Had she fallen into the stream, she would have arisen to the surface, with the pony. Thus reasoned the red-men, A few guttural orders, issued in a low and guarded tone from the chief, and instantly all the braves sprung from their mustangs; four of the number leading twice as many horses on the back trail toward the bend, whence the chase had started, and soon returning for as many more animals. Then the chief stationed braves up and down the stream, ordering them to seat themselves upon the bank and watch the waters; thus proving and betraying the fact that he did not believe his own assertions in regard to the dis- ses of the “‘ white squaw.” he sun sunk, the red glow died away, and still the Comanche braves sat on the bank of the Rio San Saba, their eyes fixed upon the waters, but guided more hy sense of hearing than sigbt, tor all around was dark and the river was inky black. Suddenly, from below them, shot a piercing shriek, and every brave sprung to his feet, the chief as well, and ran as though the fiends were in chase of them. Upon reaching their horses, they equipped the animals quickly, sprung into their saddles and then hastened at headlong speed out from tbe bend and up the river. All at once Coyote made halt, giving a signal yell as he alighted from his mustang. Eager braves followed his example, uttering vor ations of joy and exultation as they saw, plainly defined, the trail of the wagon-train. The mystery of the white squaw’s being in that far-away and isolated bend of the San Saba was now explained. The wonder and dread of the Comanches was at an end. They had struck the trail of the white foe! 0 EEE ee ee CHAPTER III. RATTLESNAKE, THE TONKAWAY. Hap one been on the outer edge of the timber of the Rio San Saba, one mile from the bend, northeasterly toward the Colorado and on the western side of the stream, a most impressive and terrible sight might have been seen, some two hours previous to sunset, and a little less time from the arrival of the wagon-train at the point where the travelers have been introduced to the reader. And a witness there was to the scene, and one who will be a prominent actor in our little frontier drama, and whom we will now describe. At the time designated, namely, to hours be- fore the sun had set, there stood, one mile from the bend, in the very edge of the border of un- dergrowth, his arms folded, his black, piercing eyes scanning the plain to the west, over which the blood-red sun cast a fiery glow through the hazy heat, an Indian, He had three flaunting eagle-feathers in bis beaded fillet, which proclaimed him a chief, He stood nearly six feet in his moccasins, and was as straight as a forest pine, proud and noble in mien, his features differing much from those of the generality of bis people. His nose, instead of being wide and flat, was slender, and more of the Grecian type than aught else, and his nostrils distended at every breath, like those of a blooded race-horse when brought up to the start. His eyes flashed witb furious hatred and his fingers clutched tightly about his arms, as if he thus controlled himself from action, as be geazed over the plain: a thirst for blood and revenge in his eagle eye, his lips parted as though the war-cry of his tribe trembled on his tongue. His impatience and tke strength of will neces- sary to control him, were betrayed by the fre- quent changing of bis weight from one limb to the other; casting, as be did so, the eased foot forward with lightning-likejswiftness, showing a suppleness and motion which resembled that of a panther. aked from the waist up, he stood in his closely-fitting leggins of buckskin, and his moc- casins, These were beaded and fringed in an exquisite manner, and were evidently newly bound. His leggins were held in place by a richly- beaded belt, which also sustained a long scalp- ing knife and a Colt’s army six-shooter; while leaning against a bush near at hand was a Sharpe’s carbine, Upon the broad bronzed breast of this chief was a perfect representation of a rattlesnake, coiled for deadly spring. This was done in dif- ferent colored pigments, while bars of black paint and vermilion, with fine lines of blue, covered face and brow. His fillet confined his long, raven-black hair bebind his ears, the heavy locks hanging below his waist, and being ornamented witb tiny sil- ver trinkets, : Allin all, he was most impressive and com- manding, as well as noble in appearance—a very prince of the prairie, a bronze Apollo. In his rear, but a few paces, browsing the tender bushes, stood a magnificent black borse, with arched neck and wide-fiowing mane, tail, and forelock; flossy and silky in appearance, with large bright eyes, and nostrils that dis- tended widely at times, as it snuffed the air sus- iciously, gazing at its red master, tossing its ead impatiently, and pawing up the green sward. Well suited to each other seemed the horse and its owner; the animal showing points for great speed anc endurance, with a show of fire and vim besides, that was remarkable. Tn a small, natural, clear space stood the In- dian chief and his steed, but-a thin fringe of bushes growing between them and the open plain; the long festoons of Spanish moss de- pending from the limbs of the huge trees and mingling with the eagle-feathers of the chief, while the horse at times reached upward and tore huge masses of it from the branches, and stamped them viciously beneath its hoofs. Kind reader, we have thus endeavored to de- scribe one of the most celebrated Indian scouts and trailers in all Texas—none other than Rat- tlesnake, the Tonkaway; a chief ranked onl by Old Placador, who, as well as all bis warri- ors, was friendly to Sam Houston and the Lone Star State. And they continued so, even after they had been removed from their hunting-grounds in Texas to a reservation on the Ouachita river in the Indian Nation. But what is the view, upon the far-stretchin plain to the west, which holds the attention ant
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excites the fury and !thirst for revenge in the breast of the Tonkaway? We will tell you. It is a scene that would appall the stoutest heart to look upon, even from a position of per- fect safety. The western sky is filled with a lurid glow, the air with a fiery haze, and the sun seems a huge ball of blood-red hue, slowly sinking, and appearing as though swelled and inflamed with anger, as its reign for the day draws near an end, And,in the fiery light, which seems like the glow from the far-off gates of some Inferno, skimming over the prairie toward the timber of the San Saba, and in the direction of the Tonk- away chief; on like a horde of demons who ap- pear to have emerged from the seeming fiery world in the west, on at headlong speed come full three-score of Comanche braves—a war- pet eager for the blood and scalps of the ardy, venturous border settlers of the Rio Llano and Rio Colorado! At first a slowly-moving mass, whose charac- ter could only be decided by the glint and glit- ter of lance-points in the red sunlight; but soon seen in al] their hideous paraphernalia of savage war, and most terrible to contemplate, On they come, at terrific speed, their long hair flying in the wind of their speed afar out behind them; the scalps, upon lance, and shield, and leggins, fluttering as well. Bent forward in their saddles, the manes of their half-wild mustangs flying in their paint- daubed faces, from which flash their black, snake-like eyes; bars of vermilion drawnm along their breasts and arms, with lines of white BY m between, causing them to appear more 7 a horrible and unearthly—tbus on they ash! Their buffalo-skin quirts biss through the air, and about the panting beasts, which spring, with snort and far-reaching bound at the tor- turing lash; their hoofs fast flying through the prairie-grass, causing a swishing sound, which, with the continuous thud of bundreds of hoofs, resembled the rush and moan of an approach- on “ norther.” us on dashed the Comanche war-party; each tongue silent as death itself, each bent urging on his foam-bespattered steed, and tr no notice of bis fellows. traight as the flight of an arrow from a bow, the war-fiends zalloped—straight toward the point where stands, screened by the narrow line of undergrowth, Rattlesnake, the Tonka- way. The latter now clutches his rifle, slips his revolver around to the front on his belt, cocks the carbine, and holding the weapon ready, braced himself, bis left foot forward, desperate d daring—scorn and batred, the most intense, Bazio in ‘his eagle eye! ill the Tonkaway stand thus, and brave al- most certain death? : The flash of eye, the poise of form, and the grip of weapon, prove that be wi, that he scorns to fly. , Some must fall before his deadly aim, but he will be overwhelmed by numbers; by scoresof his foes, who detest him for affiliating with the whites, andhate him asa renegade to his peo- e. Surely the time seemsto have arrived when the death-cry of Rattlesnake is tosound in the ears of his overjoyed enemies, and.echo through the natural arches of the timber on the Rio San Saba, where oft his wild war-whoop has rung in victorious intonations! Thus it really seemed. % Death or torture appeared to bei his doom. Already could he see the glitter of the snake- like eyes of the Comanches, seeming fo bore into the undergrowth; practicing no caution in their beadlong approach, fearing Mo. ambus- cade, secure in their strength. Ut? Thus on, until the very panting of? the; mus- tangs was distinctly heard by the daring Tonk- away; then, up to bis shoulder he brought his carbine; but at the very instant that his fin- ger was about to press the trigger—whemplife and death, to others as well as himself, bung on a moment—the Comanche war-party » all jerked jaw straps, at a signal whoop from their ‘chief, and swooped like a flock of birds south- ward, rushing past the covert of the plumed chief, rustling the very twigs and leaves in his front by the wind created by their terrific apeed, soclose did they pass to the fringe of undergrowth, Down came the carbine of the Tonkaway, resting against his thigh; more of disappoint- that had n engendered by the ght of b foes so near to him, than aught else. ment mingled with the hate and vengeful fu bh a A The Fighting Trio. Then he bent forward, peering up the river, soon to see the war-party all jerk their mus- tangs toa halt simultaneously. In two minutes more, not a Comanche was within view, all having disappeared within the shades, some five hundred yards below the lurking place of Rattlesnake. The eyes of Tonkaway glittered with exulta- tion and satisfaction, and he quickly secreted his carbine in a hollow log near at band; then removing the jaw-strap from bis horse, and loosening the saddle-girth, be grasped the muz- zle of the animal, and blew into its nostrils, keeping bis eyes upon those of the noble beast. The latter,as soon as it was released, rubbed its nose against that of its red master, as he tightened his belt, and drew his scalping-knife, circling the blade around bis plumed head, As he did so, the Tonkaway gazed skyward, the war-whoop of his tribe very nearly bursting on the air; being suppressed only by a great effort of bis will. Then, witha willowy, supple, panther-like movement, Rattlesnake glided, half-bent, through the undergrowth, toward the point where the Comanche war-party had entered the timber. Had our red friend proceeded over the river, and through the timber to the easterly border of the same, he would by gazing down the San Saba, in the direction of the Colorado, have discovered a sight which would have greatly changed his plans; and would, without doubt, have taken steps, which would also have great- ly changed the course of events connected with others who are to figure in this narrative, But this was not to be. Fate decreed that the wagon-train should pass up the San Saba on the easterly side of the same, unperceived by the Tonkaway, as well as by the Comanches who were on the west side of the stream. Had Rattlesnake known that his white pard, Single-Eye the scout, was so near, and guiding a Texan, with his family and slaves, up the Rio San Saba, he would have warned them of the presence of the hostile Comanches. As it was, matters were tending toward much torture of mind, and tragic happenings, all of which might have been averted, had the Tonk- away chief struck through the timber east- ward, instedd of advancing up the river bottom to inspect the camp of his hated foes the Co- manches, CHAPTER IV. ON THE ALERT. It was some time before Rattlesnake gained a position, from which he could view the Co- manche camp; he climbing a moss-draped tree for that purpose. He decided immediately that his foes had traveled without halt, from the rising of the sun. The eondition of their animals indicated this: but a stronger proof was the fact that the Co- manches, when he reached his ‘ lookout,” were tearing, like famished wolves, half-cooked meat, which they devoured ravenously; one of the extra mustangs, which they bad in lead, bav- ing been slain to afford them a feast. So famished were the braves, that not only had they neglected to post sentinels, but they had not, so far as the Tonkaway could deter- mine, sent.out spies to inspect the plain to the east of the river. This indicated that they had had some spy, or spies, down country, within a day or two, and were confident that there was no body of men in the vicinity, strong enough in numbers to cope with them. Rattlesnake resolved in his mind, however, that this war-party should come to grief through his efforts. He decided to keep an eye on them, and not only to warn the settlers to the south, but also tohasten to the camp of a party of rangers, whom he knew to be on the Rio Llano, or to Fort Mason, and guide thence a detachment of troops on their trail. However, it was not in the Tonkaway’s ‘*make up,” as far as a thirst for revenge and hatred went, to allow his foes to proceed with- out losing a few scalps, which he vowed should hang at his belt, *» He would let them kuow, as he had often done fore, that he was on their trail; that he had t forgotten, fhe fact that they had tortured ti aw at the stake, by ordering r hags to stone her to death, and that they secured his only pap to the tail of a »horse, to be dragged over the plain, until naught but bones remained of it. Me “> eee ee eee Re ee many of their braves, before they reached the log lodges of the Texanos. All that Rattlesnake had suffered at the hands of the Comanches was now brought forcibly to his mind, and he was furious for revenge. Hoe knew that this party was headed by Coyote, the most vindictive and merciless foe to the Tonkaways and the whites in the Comanche nation. Not until this moment did Rattlesnake think of the possibility of whites being on the east lain; and he berated himself mentally for al- owing his thirst for revenge to cause him to neglect having inspected the prairie toward the Rio Llano. But, it was now too late for regrets, and he- uickly descended from his perch, stealing through the undergrowth, in a cautious and noiseless manner, until reaching the river; when, again mounting into a tree, he made bis way, through the entwined branches, to a huge pecan, on the opposite side of the stream, Then descending, he proceeded, as before, on the trail of the small party of Comanches, who had left the main camp. Rattlesnake a knew the lay of the land, and he soon left the trail, in order to strike the swell of the bend, and enter the open space which has been described, as the scene of the fright and flight of Lula La Coste. he Tonkaway believed, from the, course taken by the Comanches, that he could enter’ the natural “ open,” and, by a fast run, gain a view of the plain before his foes bad cleared the wood to the north, and on his right. However, he was fated to meet with a most astounding surprise; for, as he reached the margin of the bushes, he perceived Lula, as we have de- scribed, seated upon ber pony. Even the Tonkaway, who had seen many beautiful women, who bad mingled for years: with the Texans, was dumfounded at the sight of the lovely golden-baired maiden; and, al- though he was confident that she was in danger of discovery and capture by the Comanches, he neglected warning her, so impressed was he by her extraordinary beauty, and so astonished at seeing her thus alone in such a wild place, so tar from any of the border ranches. He knew that she must have friends near, possibly a wagon-train was in the vicinity; and, if so, it was doomed, for the Comanches would. discover either the trail or the camp. Before the chief had recovered himself, the maiden’s pony half whirled, and galloped in fright from the middle of the ‘‘ open” toward the neck of the bend; and then it was that Rat- tlesnake saw the warriors under Coyote station themselves across the exit to the plain, and bar the pony’s way Most furious was the Tonkaway at this mo- ment, but be had little time to consider the sit- uation, vr to form plans that would favor the poor girl’s rescue, for the pony turned about and galloped headlong directly toward him, the Comanches in hot chase. In an instant the Tonkaway sprung toward: the river in frantic bounds, reasoning that the fair girl would reach it ahead of her pursuers, As yet he had formed no plans, but his mind: was busy as he tore through the undergrowth. He saw that the Comanches had parted and were speeding on each side of the bend, This proved to bim that the white pony would be forced to keep a direct course to the river, and Rattlesnake, upon thus reasoning, decided on his course of action, although there seemed no possible way in which he could be of the least benefit to the maiden in preventing her capture, ¥ Running as fast as was possible under the circumstances, the Tonkaway soon reached the river-bank at the very point where a few mo- ments later the pony with its mistress sprung into the stream, He saw at once that in its beadlong flight, the little steed would be prevented from seeing the river by the line of bushes and would bound over the bank. Quickly the chief let himself down by a vine- to the water, and drawing his revolver, held the weapon at arm’s length over his head as he dropped into the river, the water at the bank. being up to his neck, He now perceived that there was a cave-like- opening at the base of the bank behind him, where the el had fallen into the stream. This was sufficiently large for three or four per- sons to secrete themselves, Entering this little cavern, Rattlesnake lis:
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f ened intently, his practiced ear enabling him to determine almost tie exact distance between the pursued and the pursuers. The Tonkaway now formed a scheme in his fertile brain for the rescue of the young girl, which would, he knew, jeopardize his own fife. To this, however, he gave buta flitting thought. Did be but work quickly, and with skill, there was a possibility of success, although at great risk. Before, however, he had time to well digest his plan and brace himself for action, the white pony shot through the bushes, over the bank, and into the river, with a terrible plunge, Barely had the little steed struck the surface, when, with a sudden plunge, the Tonkaway chief shot from the bank, beneath the surface, clutching Lula and jerking ber from the strug- gling pony. He then swam under water with quick and powerful movements, knowing that his own life and more than life to the maiden might depend upon a single stroke of his one arm. He reached the cave-like opening in the bank, just as the Comanches galloped up overhead and the white pony struck out, panting and snort- ing, for the other side of the river. Seating himself, Rattlesnake held Lula rev- erently in his arms; she being motionless as a corpse, and as devoid of sense. The Tonkaway waited patiently for her to revive, yet dreading ’ that moment too much to hasten her recovery; for he feared she would, upon beholding him, shriek out in her fright, and thus betray both herself and him. Not that he feared his enemies. posite, He scorned them and defied them; feeling sure in his mind that he could evade capture easily, as he bad many times before, But the chief well knew what would be the fate of the fair girl in his arms, if captured; and he had not the slightest thought of desert- ing her. e now understood the reason why the Co- manches had sat their mustangs, when they could have dashed in and surrounded the white maiden, when she was on the plain. It was be- cause they had been so greatly impressed by her strange unearthly sche 6 The words of Coyote, the Comanche chief now reached the ear of Rattlesnake proving that his reasonings had been correct. The war-party believed the maiden to have been a daughter of the sun, and that she bad flown through the air to that luminary. The Tonkaway now belived that he could, under the cover of night, escape from the vicinity of his foes; indeed he was confident of success. He heard the horses, as they were led away; and, from the guttural ejaculations of his foes he knew that they intended watching the waters. For some time Rattlesnake sat, pondering up- on the mysterious presence of the fair girl at such a dangerous point, and what he should do, should she, upon her recovery, make an outcry. While he hus reasoned, Lula slcwly opened her eyes, and as they became fastened upon the “pegines face of him who held her in his arms, er senses returned to her. She believed that she had been captured by the red fiends who had pursued her, and that she was now reclining iu the arms of a Co- manche, At first her tongue was paralyzed, and incapa- ble of utterance, as she fixed her eyes upon the face ot tne chief, Then she gave one heart- rending shriek and again relapsed into insen- siblity. Rattlesnalce clutched bowie and “ six-shooter,” after seating bis fair charge on a projection of earib; then sprung erect, braced for conflict, when, to his joy and relief, he heard the Co- manches running from the bank into the timber. Coyote and his braves evidently thought that the “ white squaw ” was in some way connected with either the Good Spirit or the Bad Spirit for the cry that they had heard undoubtedly pro- ceeded from her—and they believed that she still remained in the depths of the river. Hence their precipitous flight, All this the Tonkaway readily comprebended. He well knew the superstitions of his race. Their dread and horror of the locality, how- ever, the Tonkaway felt sure would soon be dissipated, and then they would return, ’ The totally unexpected cry, which came apperently from the depths of the San Saba, rendered; more strange and unearthly from being uttered within the cave-like opening in the bank, had startled the watchers, and filled them with a superstitious terror for the time, But they would soon return. Just the op- Sioiere 13 Ts fens asi ties paar , rf 7 atts Ta 1 .) Oe aie Ma ae Suge The Fighting Trio. Of this, Rattlesnake was confident. Not only this, but he felt sure that the shriek must have been heard in the main camp, which was but a short distance down the river; and, securing ‘his revolver by a buckskin cord to the top of his head, the Tonkaway chief quickly swam across the river with his fair charge, and mounting the bank opposite his recent lurking-place, he disappeared in the undergrowth. Rattlesneke’s first trail was on that of the white pony. Of his second, we shall hear more in a later chapter. CHAPIER V. SINGLE-EYE, THE SCOUT. “T HESN’T see’d, no ‘sign,’ major, this hyer side o’ ther San Saba; but thet doesn’t go ter prove thet thar ain’t hellyuns ’round. Fact air, ther red scum promernvades the perrarers hyer’bouts purty permiscu’s, ther bestest part o ther time; fer thar’s plenty o’ game and fish, an’ a mustong kin fill bits belly wi’ grass in a ormighty short time, if not sooner. ‘*Dang my pictur’, ef I doesn’t feel sorter bilious ’bout perceedin’ on this-a-ways, with weemin folkses, es I hes spit out more’n onc’t sence sun-up. ‘Pm inclernated ter think thet yer es con- trairy an’ cross-grained es a gov’ment mule, er yer’d ba’ done esI’vised yer, an’ squatted on ther Llano, nigh ter Fort Mason; though yer wouldn’t be safe even thar-a-ways, fer ther painted sculpers stompeded plum within a half shute o’ ther barracks las’ fall, an’ tuck in a heap o’ humans, right in sight o’ ther blue- coats, **T'm reckonin’ yer’ll wish yer’d tuck ther ole man’s ’vice, ef ther hellyuns sh’u’d skupe in yer weemin an’ niggers; speshly ef ther purty leetle gal, Lula, sh’u’d turn up missin’.” Thus spoke Single-Eye, as he rode by the side of Major La Coste, at the head of the wagon-train, as described in our first chapter. At that very moment, Lula La Coste was sitting upon her white pony, confronted by a score of Comanches, half a mile down the river, on the back trail. “T really believe you are bilious, friend Sin- gle-Eye,” said the major. ‘“‘ For my F pei I have thus far seen no indications of danger. One would not suppose there had even been an Indian in this section; and every mile we have progressed, since leaving the Colorado, the land bas improved. “This isa perfect earthly Paradise, and I do not believe I shall be molested if I locate in one of these horse-shoe bends. The general course of the river is from west to east; but there are short and abrupt bends, within which one can build strong log bouses, and laugh at the In- dians should they make a formal call. ‘* My negroes are all brave and trusworthy, and [ bave arms and ammunition in plenty.” ““Ya-as, but, yer can’t take yer stock inter ther houses; and ther cussed reds ’ll run ’em all off, dead sure an’ sartin!” ‘*T can corral the cattle, nights, until the In- dians bave been driven farther west. Why are you so apprehensive? There bas been no raid this year, that I have heard of.” ‘*Thet’s jist the reason yer kin ’spect ther cantankerous cusses ter lunge down this-a-way. **T tell yer, major, I won’t be ’sponsible fer ther outfit, an’ 1 hain’t bin, since we left ther Colorado, Dang my gizzard, ef I can’t smell Injuns, an’ so does my nag, Skip-lively !” Then, bending forward, the scout addressed his horse: ‘Yer doesn’t keer ter go no furder wi’ ther weermin—does yer, Skip?” _The beast shook his head, in a quick and de- cisive manner. *Doesn’t yer think thar’s reds galervantin’ *bout within a day’s ride, eager fer bleed an’ ha’r?” Skip-lively bobbed his head up and down. Major LaCoste roared with laughter. * Quit thet, major! Quit thet ef yer hes any *gards fer yer folkses back in ther waggins, “Dang hit! Yer’d bring ther reds down on ter we-'uns jist.a b’ilin’. Ef thar’s any within a mile, they’d hear yer. I hes gi’n yer fa’r warnin’ o’ what yer moughbt ’spect, but yer w’u’d come up ther San Saba, an’ ef anythin’ ey does turn up, bit’s not ole Single-Eye’s ault. ‘* Pll skute ’cross ther drink, soon es we gits things straight in camp, an’ smell ’roun’ fer ‘sign.’ Thar’s game, fish, wood, water, an’ grass hyer, ontil yer can’t rest—dang my giz- zard, ef ther ain’t! “ Hit’s a ormighty mean white man» thet can’t slap up a ranch hyer, without bein’ liable ter lose his ah nex’ day. But whar in thun- deration’s ther leetle gal? I doesn’t fix my peeper on ter ber. Er ther white pony nuther!” “‘ She’s probably lingering on the trail, gath- ering flowers,” suggested the major, looking back. It was evident, from the expression of the old gentleman’s face, that the oft-repeated warn- ings of the scout bad begun to have their effect upon him; or else the absence of his much- loved daughter gave him some anxiety, hereto- fore unfelt, Agreeably to Single-Fye’s orders, the wagon- train now turned into a bend almost the exact counterpart of the one in which Lula La Coste had met with such a startling adventure but a few moments previous. The wagons were placed in the middle of the clear space, forming a square, the barness was removed quickly from the mules, and soon the animals were rolling in the grass to cool their heated and perspiring skins. A minute after, the Conestoga wagon came rattling into the bend, and the major, who had dismounted and delivered his hose to one of bis slaves, walked up to greet bis wife and sis- ter and assist them from the wagon. The old scout superintended the placing of the ‘‘schooners,” and gave directions in regard to the camp-fires. and to getting the arms in order that they might be available in the event of an attack. ‘¢ Wher in the name of wonder is Lula?” Thus inquired her father impatiently and anxiously, as the wagon approached. “That is a question I should like much to be able to answer,” returned his wife, manifesting no little apprehension as she spoke. ‘* We have not seen her for sometime, The last we saw of her she was riding near the tim- ber around the big bend. I feel very anxious and I wish Single Eye would gallop back and advise her to join us immediately.” ‘*She’s a heap too venturesome,” put in Aunt Lavine.’ ‘‘ When I was a girl I bed to mind my elders. For my part, I’ve seen flowers and birds enough since we started on this tejus trip — me for a year; but Lula ain’t never sat- ished, ‘*Ef thar’d a big b’ar or a wolf bark at her, or she should hear an Injun holler, I reckon she'd stick a little clos’ter ter the train.” Miss Lavinia La Coste had spent the greater part of ker life in the backwoods of Arkansas, and in consequence was not very particular in regard to her manner of expressing hers+lf—a fact which caused Single-Eye to ‘‘ cotton” to her, her deficiencies in language and expression being considered by the old scout a merit. ‘*Do not worry,” advised the major. .‘‘ We'll find Lula, never fear! She is fond of galloping free over the prairie, and this is not the first time she has failed to put in an appearance at camping time.” ‘*] know that,” agreed Mrs. La Coste, “ but I can’t help feeling a presentiment of coming evll and disaster, although I cannot explain why. ‘* Eversince we left the Colorado I have felt that we were going too far from the outer Jine of settlers; and all those reports of horrible massacres by the Indians have been brought forcibly and plainly tomy mind. Do you feel safe here?” * Perfectly safe,” returned the busband, ‘‘If the red-men do attack us, we can easily defeat them. Of this I] am satisfied. Iam an old sol- dier, you must remember.” ‘““Ya-as,” said Single-Eye, dryly, advancing at this moment, followed by Aunt Lavine; ‘‘ver may be a old soldjer, an’ yit not know nothin’ *bout sarcumventin’ red heathen. ‘“‘I'm worrited ’bout ther leetle gal. Hit won't do fer her ter sling herself ’roun’ permis- cu’s-like, in this hyer locate.” * Don’t you think—” The major was bere interrupted by the neigb- ing of a horse, sounding through the timber, apparently from beyond the river. Single-Eye shot a glance in the major’s face. The latter grew a shade pale, and his lip be- gan to quiver, ‘* Major,” said the old scout, decisively; “‘ Vl chaw bugs fer grub ther nex’ six moons, ef thet warn’t the pony o’ yer leetle gal!” Thus speaking, Single Eye remounted, and spurred at once toward the river. ‘*In Heaven’s name, what does it mean?” ex- claimed Major La Coste. ‘*Mercy-on us! How come the child beyant the river?” burst out Aunt Levine. ‘Oh, Lula! Lula!” cried the agonized mother; “T shall die if anything has happened to her!” JNA
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The scout had not passed over half the dis- tance between the wagons and the border of the timber, when the white pony dashed, crashing through the brush into the ‘‘open;” galloping, with snorts of terror, directly to the wagons, the animal dripping with water. “My God!” cried Major La Coste: “‘ what has happened to my darling?” With one piercing shriek Mrs. La Coste sunk senseless on the sward; while a wail of grief and anguish came from the negro women and their children, as ony’ A huddled together, in dread apprehension, fearing they knew not what. Aunt Lavine stood, speechless and motion- less; gazing, with fixed and stony stare, at the dripping pony of tbe missing girl. he teamsters collected together, in muttered consultation, feeling that some dread calamity was about to fall upon them. All loved and revered Lula, and all felt but too sure that the fair girl had met with some terrible mishap. For full a minute, Single-Eye sat his horse; having halted instantly, when the pony made its appearance. The old scout, notwith- standing his frequent warnings, and the knowl- edge that Indians were liable to make their ap- arance at any moment, was dumfounded, his eart springing to his throat. Never had he met a human being, who had impressed him so favorably as had Lula La Coste; and he was confident, as soon as he saw the riderless pony, that she had, at least, met with some accident, Not a trace had been seen of Indians on the trip, thus far: and he hoped tbat the red-skins pos nothing to do with the absence of the tair girl. The old scout dashed up to the major, saying, ina quick, peremptory manner: “Git ther nigger weemin’ and children back inter ther waggin, arm ther teamsters, an’ keep a eye open fer biz! ‘Miss Lavine, keep shady wi’ ther madam, soon es yer gits her back ter Texas, [ll fetch leetle Lula back, er bu’st up things giner’ly!” With these words, Single Eye galloped back to the narrow opening that led from the plain into the camp; but, the next moment he came dashing back at full speed, spurring up to the major, who still stood, dazed and agonized, and unable to plan or act. The scout cried out: ‘“*Hit’s all up, major! Ther red hellyuns air on our trail, an’ they hes gut ther leetle I! i We-uns hes ter fight like ther Ole Boy ter save ther weemin an’ our own sculps, “ Boyees,”—this to the negroes—“git yer shooters, an’ stan’ firm!” CHAPTER VI. A WELCOME CRY. Wuen Single-Eye galloped over the soft sward of the bottom, for the purpose of going on the back trail in search of Lula La Coste, he had but little doubt in bis mind as to what had become of her. He knew that the pony had long been the girl’s pet, and that she was complete mistress of the animal; consequently it was unreasonable to suppose that she bad been thrown from the saddle, From the fact that the pony was terribly frightened, and bad been in the river, the old scout concluded that an Indian, secreted in the undergrowth, had jerked the maiden from her saddle, and that tie startled animal had plunged into the river and swam across. No wild beasts roamed the bottom at that time of the day that could not have been easily avoid- ed by Lula; and he did not believe she would have ventured into the bottom alone, as she had been warned against so doing. Had she done so, she must have been forced to it, from some enemies having prevented her es- eape in any other direction, Bingle-Eye therefore checked tha speed of his horse; walking the animal slowly to the verge of the outer eastern section of the bend. One glance aloug the back trail caused the scout to congratulate himself upon having acted thu. cautiously; for, coming slowly around the big bend, from the direction of the Colorado, he discovered Coyote and his braves, all b nt downward from their saddles, following the trail of the wagons. There were but some twenty warriors, but the old scout well knew that such a small num- 2 pe : . ’ 2 fais 747 pM ee ge if - ssethe. ; , ft C258. ; . er, fl ‘ ° be av The Fighting Trio. ber would not be on the war-path. Others could not be far away. Those within view he did not deem of any consideration, as they could not cope with the well-trained teamsters, the major, and himself. They could easily be repulsed; but the balance of the war- y, if they were near at hand, as was probable, might, at the sound of fire-arms, attack and massacre them. As these thoughts flashed through bis head, Single-Eye whirled his horse and returned in- stantly to the camp. Had he lingered a few moments he would bave been relieved in mind, for the Comanche chief, after ascertaining the direction taken by the wagons, and knowing that with his present force he could not attack the whites, turned about and ordered his braves to follow. All, therefore, returned at a gallop, first to the point where Lula had plunged into the river, where Coyote ordered a half-dozen braves to inspect the bank on both sides, up and down the stream. But this inspection gave no clew; and as it was then nearly dark, all proceeded to the main camp. Instantly every warrior was fired with joy and t:iumph, as the finding of the trail and the discovery of the white squaw were revealed by their comrades, At once they prepared themselves and their horses for the expected night-attack; but Coyote the cunning chief, ordered out another half- dozen braves on foot as scouts, to ascertain the location of the camp and the strength of the whites. Barely had this order been given, when loud on the night air rung the death-yell of a Co- manche warrior, causing the remainder of the war party to gaze at each other in wonder. Coyote strode into the middle of the camp in fury, and issued a guttural order. very brave collected around him, when it was found that two of their number were ab- sent. The six who had been selected as spies, stood apart ina group and instantly the chief pointed toward the south—the direction whence the death-yell bad sounded. The spies quickly darted into the shades, and disappeared on their double errand, to ascertain who had slain their comrade and also the loca- tion of the Texans’ camp. They all knew that this was on the further side of the river. It was impossible for the wa- gons to have crossed the river. But the deatb- yell had come from the same side on which they were themselves. This was a mystery, as was also the disappearance of the white squaw. There were, then, enemies on both sides, The question was, what was their number? Coyote could do nothing but await the return of the spies. The latter had not placed fifty yards between them and their camp when again a blood-curd- ling how] of death rung out on the nigbt, evi- dently but a sbort distance from the scene of the former tragedy. This sound caused the spies to halt, struck with wonder and terror, They bad not the slightest idea who or what 23 thus occasioned the death of their two com- rades, As for Coyote, he was furious. But the mystery of the death yel's was almost instantly solved; for close following the last rung the war-cry of the Tonkaways, in taunting exultation. Comanche nature could stand no more, All were now frantically furious and eager for the fray. A low signal from the chief, who galloped from the camp, caused every brave to follow; all crashing through the undergrowtb, fording the river, and taking up the trail of the wagons, in their fierce thirst for revenge. Well they knew the dreaded Rattlesnake! After giving his orders for preparing the camp for defense, the old scout, leaving bis horse secured to a wagon wheel, ran back to the opening to ascertain the progress of the red foe on the trail, To the joy of Single-Eye not a Comanche was in view, and he hastened beck to camp. He knew they might look for an attack before morning. That Lula was a captive he had no doubt, and he swore to rescue her, and also to save the train, if such were possible. Hastily improvising a fort by means of the wagons, he placed the females within it, the nvales being driven to a natural ‘‘ open” in the dense timber some distance up the stream. Mrs, La Coste ley surrounded by the negro women, in a most deplorable state ot mind, low moans constantly issuing from her iips, while Aunt Lavine strove in vain to rally her from the fearful shock she had sustained. Since the Indians had been reported in the vi- cinity by Single-Eye, Mrs. La Coste had given: up to hopeless despair, for she had not the slight- est doubt that ber daughter was in the power of those merciless savages. The hy women and children were simply paraly with terror. The slave teamsters maintained a brave de- meanor, desperate at the dangerous position of their wives and little ones; while the old scout, by well-chosen words, encouraged all, as he per- fected his arrangements, assisted by the speech- less major. The latter moved about in a mechanical man- ner, the very personification of despair, an- guish, and self-condemnation, Major La Coste was, indeed, on the borders. of insanity. He had stubbornly disregarded the advice of Single-Eye, and dragged his dear and helpless. ones into dangers.that be dare not dwell upon even in thought, and from which there seeme no escape; for the old scout had prepared him for the worst, telling bim that there was a large war-party in the vicinity. As to any attempt being now made to ascer- tain what had become of Lula, this was out of the question; but it was with great difficulty that Single-Eye prevented the major from set- ting out to search the bottom-timber. Allin all, the old scout had no easy task, to bring anything like order out of the chaotic de- moralization of the party: and be was rendered almost hopeless himself, and incapable of rea- soning correctly upon the situation of affairs in the camp, He was obliged to frighten the women and children, who by this time had begun to give vent to their fears, into silence; and, at length, he had everything arranged to his satisfaction. No sooner had he done this, and torn off a huge chew of “ nigger-head,” than the moon, slowly rising higher in the heavens, shot: its rays over the western tree-tops, and down into the camp; and, at the same time, loud on the night, sounded the death-bowl of a Comanche brave, from over the river. ‘¢Dang my cats!” exclaimed the old scout, ejecting a squirt of tobacco-juice. ‘*Thet’s ther last yelp of a Comanche, er I hopes ter be baked wi’ dogs, an’ fed ter Pinte pappooses. What in thunderation’s up, t’otber side ther drink? Things is sorter mixed,” Single-Eye spoke more ‘to himself tban to others. Then he listened intently. The death-bowl caused a sudden change in mane La Coste. is eyes flashed furiously, his form became instantly erect, and be slipped his revolvers and bowie to the front on bis belt. Then be clutcbed his rifle, and also listened intently. As yet he had neither seen nor heard any Indians, arid the fearful how! brought him to a full realization of the peril of bimself and his partv. He thougbt of the terrible conflict that was, doubtless, now near at band. For a few moments, all within the little wag- on-fort was silent as death itself, for all had heard that awful sound—the last how] of an ex- piring savage. Thus they remained, until again that terrible yell broke the stiilness; this time from a differ- ent point. ‘‘Cuss my cats!” exclaimed the old scout in the ntmost astonishment and perplexity. This ejaculation had no sooner left the lips of Single Eye, however, when the night air was cut by a far-sounding whoop of war, in taunting exultation, quite near at hand, “Double up an’ dang me! Hash me fer catfish bait! Somebody bold me er I sbill hev a conniption-fit, Hit’s sich a suddint surprise thet it makes me sick enough ter puke up my knee-pans—durned ef bitedon’t. “Dang my ’Merican gizzard ef thet music warn’t spit out by my red pard, Rattlesnake. ther Tonk! An he’s a rattler, yer jist kin bet? ‘¢ Major, run this byer outfit ontil I gtides back. Everythin’s comin’ out hunk—leastwavs I’m inclernated ter opine thet-a-way, I allers does when J hears ther Tonk whooperee.” With these words, delivered in a hasty and joyous manner, which caused Major La Coste and the negroes the utmost amazement, mingled with relief, Single-Eye leaned his rifle against a bale of goods, and sprung between the tilt and the side of the wagon to the ground out- side. Then on be bounded, like a frightened buck, oe the river, soon disappearing in the tim- r. ] ; A
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— * PySS.) ae a i frases: baad “ CHAPTER VII. BROUGHT BACK. WHEN Lula uttered the piercing shriek at the time she found herself in the arms of a war- painted Indian, it was heard by two braves on the opposite side of thestreaw, who had strolled from the main camp, up the San Saba, in quest of soft-shelled turtles. Both ran to ascertain the cause of the sound, one being some distance in the rear of theother, and neither being aware of the other’s presence, The first sight that met the eye of the fore- most was the Tonkaway, bearing Lula La Coste in bis arms. Here was an opportunity to gain a scalp and a captive and to win renown. Thus thought the Comanche, and he rushed in pursuit. The second brave saw neither his comrade nor the Tonukaway, but he detected the trails of both in the soft mud, and he also hastened in pursuit, At this time Rattlesnake knew not which way to go. He felt positive that there was a party of whites in the near vicinity, and from the fact that the Comanches had passed through the timber to the east plain and had discovered the maiden on the white pony, the Tonkaway rea- soned that the whites had made the turn, and proceeded up the river, west, before they had encamped, In consequence of this decision, our red friend struck through the timber, aiming to cross it some distance above the turn, where he felt that the camp of the maiden’s friends must be lo- cated. Hastening as fast as possible, bearing the senseless Lula in his strong arms, carefully as a mother would her child, the chief gained some distance before he halted to listen; ever cun- ning and suspicious. He was about to start again, when the rustle of a bush on bis back trail caught his keen ear. A look of mingled exultation and fury shot from the chief’s eyes, as he placed Lula within a thicket, und drew his scalping-knife., Half-bent, the Tonkaway awaited the advent of the spy, whom he knew to be on his track; his muscles drawn, his strength concentrated, and senses nerved, Nor had he long to wait. Soon the head of a Comanche brave was thrust through the bushes. He felt that he was close upon his foe. He believed the moment to be near, when be would have it in his power to gain a white captive and a scalp—the latter that of a hated Tonkaway, who had slain many of his comrade braves, The scalp of Rattlesnake, whom he had recog- nized, would place him high in rank in his tribe; but the Comanche well knew the prow- ess, the bravery and skill of the chief he pro- posed to slay. But there was no time for preparation, be- yond the precautions already practiced by the spy; for before the latter had time to think, or to spring erect, the Tonkaway, with a panther- like bound, was upon bim, his fingers clutching the long hair of the Comanche, and the glitter- ing scalping-knife poised for the fatal blow. The spy saw that he was doomed. Only one slight satisfaction, an opening for revenge after death, remained; and, as the steel shot downward, the Comanche, with all his strength, gave out the death-yell of his tribe, in horrid intonation, the biood welling from his mouth and nostrils before the sound ceased. Rattlesnake was about to start again, when, the gory trophy held in triumph above his head, and the suppressed war-cry of his people upon lfis lips, be perceived the white maiden, standing on the verge of the thicket, clutching at the undergrowth for support; her blue eves staring in horror, ber lips apart, and her breast heaving spasmodically, as she panted for breath, TLus standing, her golden hair half-vailing her angelic form in disheveled masses, her face the pallor of death, dazed and speechless, Lula La Coste presented a sight that was most im- ressive and unearthly, and which caused the onkaway chief to halt on the instant, and thrust the scalp of his foe under his belt behind him. pieaiget as the shaft of a Comanche lances stood the chief, his blood-stained knife still io his hand, and he within three paces of the beau- tiful girl, whom he had risked his life to save from a terrible fate. Yet he felt that she be- lieved him to be an enemy, bent upon her de- struction. Thus stood Lula, swaying like a willowina The Fighting Trio. summer breeze, her eyes fixed upon the princely form of the red Apollo before her. That she had witnessed the killing and svalp- ing of the Comanche, the Tonkaway was posi- tive, for the horror born of the scene was mir- rored in her eyes, Only a moment stood the chief thus. Pointing to the dead Comanche, he said: ‘*He heap bad red-man, Want take Sun- Hair over plain to sunset. Sun-Hair go, she never see friends more. Comanche chase Sun- Hair in river. She on white horse, Rattle- snake he dive in water. Get Sun-Hair in cave. Then Comanche no find. * Rattlesnake, he Tonkaway. Friend to Tex- ano. Friend toSun-Hair. Take her to friends, Where camp?” Not a word, in answer, came from the lips of poor Lula. She still gazed, with stony stare, at the Tonkaway, who now realized ber con- dition, and strode to her side, taking ber hand, as he continued: “The Tonkaway chief, he friend of little Sun- Hair. She shall gotofriends. Rattlesnake bas spoken, and lies build not their nests on his tongue. Come!” Passively, the maiden permitted the chief to lead her onward; she walking as in a trance, So engrossed was the Tonkaway with thoughts and speculations in regard to his fair charge, that bis usually acute senses were blunted, and he heard not the stealthy approach of the second Comanche brave. The latter, having discover- ed the corpse of his comrade, was doubly in- furiated. Determine. to avenge his dead fellow-brave, and filled with an insane desire to distinguish himself, he glided on, catching flitting glimpses of the Tonkaway and his fair charge, as he went. Kouife in hand, his snake-like eyes flashing, and blazing with a beast-like thirst for blood, the Comanche suddenly increased his pace to a run; then, bounding like an avenging demon, over the bushes, be landed immediately in the rear of Rattlesnake, who, with a lightning-like movement, whirled—at the same time pushing Lula from his side. Quick as had been the spy, he missed his clutch at the plumed head of the chief; and the two stood, glaring at each other, their knives in their hends. The Comanche was a very sinewy and power- ful warrior, his muscles standing out in great knots, and his eyes filled with vengeful deter- mination. But the eagle glance of the Tonk- away seemed to dissipate a portion of his con- fidence and daring, Poor Lula shrunk, in terror, to one side of the small open space, catching at the bushes for support. The words of Rattlesnake had evolved in her mind, and she had begun to comprehend that, strange though it was, he was in reality her friend. Back and forth, in the little “open,” and from side to side, the bronzed braves now fought; their eyes flashing in consonance with the glint and clash of steel. The Tonkaway soon realized that he had met one whom it would not be easy to vanquish. There was a quick play of steel fora time, and then each clutched the knife wrist of the other, and stood thus, panting with exertion, Neither could now injure the other. The terrified girl stood, gasping for breath. The Tonkaway made one desperate effort to wrench his knife hand from the control of his foe. A violent struggle ensued, during which the limbs of the contestants became locked, and both fell to the ground. There they writhed for a moment, and then, by a herculean effort, the Comanche wrenched his knife-band free. Then gaining a position astride of his foe, he raised his glittering scalp- ing-knife over bis head, to plunge it into the broad painted breast of Rattlesnake. The latter was at his mercy! Even now the death-yell was in his throat! The spirits of his fathers hovered in the air, and whispered in his ears. The chief felt that his hour had come, and that Sun-Hair was doomed. ‘ ming Comanche held his knife on high, gloat- ingly. But the fates ordained that the brave Tonk- away should not die at that time. Lula had witnessed the fearful struggle, and the fearful position in which both she and her preserver now were, nerved the fair girl to des- perate action. She would strive to save him. Thus decided, Lula sprung forward, behind the Comanche, clutched her hands about his wrist, throwing her whole weight upon it, This unexpected movement, on the part of the white squaw, caused the Indian to lose his bal- ance, and he fell backward. The next iustant, Rattlesnuke was standing erect, with knife uplifted! A moment, and the Comanche sprung to his: feet, and jerked free from Lula, gazing in the utmost amazement, and with fierce batred, at the fair girl, who had prevented him from gain- ing his revenge—balked bim at the very mo- ment of success, when he held his foe at his mercy, and completely in bis power. That moment’s delay was fatal. It was the moment of doom to the Comanche spy. The long scalping-knife of the Tonkaway shot forward, plunging into his breast, through flesh and bone, with a horribly sickening sound. The next instant, it was jerked out, followed by a stream of hot blood, that spurted in an arch and fell in a thick spray upon the grass and flowers. The Comenche threw up his arms. His knife dropped to the earth, and his filmy eyes were fixed upon the sky, as from his throat came the horrid death-yell, piercing and prolonged. The tall, strong form swayed, for some seconds, back and forth, and then fell, with a dull thud, to the earth; the soulless eyes fixed upon the starry sky. Quickly the Tonkaway tore off the scalp, waved the same around and above bis head, and then shot out the war-whoop of bis tribe, exultantly. Securing the gory trophy by the side of its fellow, Rattlesnake again grasped the hand of Lula, as he said: “‘Sun-Hair wears the ‘petticoats of a squaw, but her heart is that of a warrior. She has saved the life and scalp of Rattlesnake. ‘*A» Tonkaway chief never forgets. Come! The war-path is open. Comanches thick as snakes in the villages of prairie-dogs.” Without a word, Lula clasped both her hands about the wrist of the chief, gazing trusting] into his painted face, and both hastened onward. In five minutes, they reached the river, when the Tonkaway, bidding the maiden cling to his Snigge bear-claw collar, swam the stream with ner. Just as they reached and were clambering up the opposite or south bank, a voice greeted him. This caused Rattlesnake to utter a single ejaculation of pleasure and relief. ‘‘Waugb!” burst from the lips of the chief. Lula La Costa uttered a low outery of most intense joy and gratitude. ““Cuss my cats! Dang my perrarer perer- grinatin’ pictur’, ef that ain’t good far a sore eye! ‘‘Ther bestest sight I've see’d in+many a moon! Tonk, may ther Good Spirit bless yer “0 ope an’ fotchin’ our purty leetle gal ack! ‘““Thar’s water in my veeper, Lula. me up ef thar ain’t!” At this moment the wild, blood-curdling war- whoop of the six Comanche spies broke on the night, as they reached the river-bank, and there perceived the maiden and the hated Tonkaway on the further side, Back in their teeth shot, once more, the war- ery of the Tonkaway. Chaw —_—. CHAPTER VIII. THE YOUNG scon0r., SINGLE-EYE lingered but a moment on the river-bank; for, as an echo to the war-cry of the disappointed braves beyond the stream, rung the distant war-whoops of the main party, led by Coyote. These were now dashing at oor up the river, on the trail of the wagon- rain, .“ Fotch ther leetle cel ’iong lively, Tork, ené git ready fer a reg’ler ole be scrimmage, fer hits comin’, bet yer scu'p!” ‘ With these words, the old scout rushed baek to the wagon-fort, and revealed the zlad news of the rescue, and approsch of Lula, _ As soon as the poor girl realized that she had indeed escaped, she became weak and faint witha the sudden reaction of feelings and emotions, She had suffered so much that her brain seemed on fire: and the fearful whoops which she now heard, told her that they were all in danger of being massacred, The belt of undergrowth and timber that had been so quickly passed hy Single-Eye, occupied Lula and the chief a much longer time; and when they reached the border of the same, the Tonkaway gave utterance to a ** Waugh?” of disappointa:ent and rage. He saw plainly that it would begi ssible te gain the wagons. That the €¢ febe,. che war-
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ih Sn ar a ica pe ha a na ae moe sete xf at : ht 3 te “ -% Sek LF rty, more than fifty in number, wero gallop- ing in a headJong cbarge upon the wagon-fort! ‘Come!” said the chief, quickly. ‘‘No time talk, Squaw vo good on war-path. Get kill. Lose scalp. Sun Hair got good scalp. Co- manche chief want it for shield. * Ratulesnake, he go fight. Help Single-Eye. Sun-Hair, she save Rattlesnake. tt is good. A Tonkaway chief no forget. spoken,” Lula burst into tears. She had hoped to join her father and mother, and, if such must be, to die with them; but she saw at once that this was impossible. To delay the chief, would only be lessening the chanc?s of their safety. From what sbe had seen, she knew that the Tonkaway was fearless. He would bea great help in defending the wagons; sosbe made no objections tohis leaving her. But when Rat- Rattlesnake has j tiesnake placed her in the crotch of a buge | tree, where she was screened somewhat by the hanging moss, she sunk back, and prayed most ferven.iy for protection for herself, and her loved ones. Here and there, about her covert, shot down arrows and bars of silvery moonlight; but she could not see the wagons witain the open space of the bend. The sounds that proceeded thence however, were far more torturing and agoniz- ing, from the fact that shecould not observe the conflict. A vocel pandemonium ruled the bend. Whoops, yells, and death-howls mingled with the sharp crack of rifles, and the rattling re- orts of revolvers. In the midst of all this, ula was startled by the crashing of bushes below her covert, and hastily arising to a sit- ting posture, she gazed downward, T@ her great surprise, she saw a white man, riding up the stream, directly toward the tree in whica she sat, This last arrival was mounted upon a su- b bay horse, the saddle and bridle being of ne workmanship. He was young—not more than twenty years of tae mad caring hand- some; being clad in fringed buckskins, with a black sombrero, turned up in front, and held thus by a five-pointed silver star. He was armed with the inevitable bowie, carbine, and revolvers, and was of symmetri- cal form, and evidently agile and supple in bis movements. The caution, manifested by him as he rode up, proved that he was well used to the border warfare, and that his intention was to view the bend, before revealing himself, or joining in the fray; for he halted directly beneath the tree, and so near it that Lula could have touched his sombrero, Here, he examined his revolvers, and slipped the scabbards to the front on his belt. The arrival of this handsome stranger gave more hope to the terrified girl. Hvensituated asshe was, end tortured by the bable disaster and death that might happen, ula had been deeply and favorably impressed by the young man at first sigbt. Sbe wished, she strove indeed, to speak; but ont a gurgling. gasping sound escaped her. he feared that she would startle the stranger that he would, on the impulse of the moment, at hearing a human voice in so singular a place, —shoot at her. Nevertheless, she at length re- solved to address him, just as he was about to urge his horse toward the scene of the fray. ‘Ob, kind sir, please do speak to me!” As she had apprehended, the carbine of the young man was pointed at her the instant her | voice broke on bis ear, but before she had | ceased speaking the weapon was lowered, and the stranger gazed upward, wheeling his horse half about. As Lula bent forward in her eagerness, her old-crowned head was illuminated by a bar of rilliant moonlight. There could not possibly have been a more beautiful picture presented to view on earth— and in sucha place, surrounded with the din of savage war, it was most astounding. Tbe youthful stranger evidently could scarce believe bis own senses, There was a show of superstitious wonder mingled with his worshipful admiration. The youth reasoned instantly, however, that the friends of the angelic maiden must have placed her where she was for safety; and he thus sp ke: ‘Pardon me, miss, for my belligerent: atti- tui+; brit these are dangerous times, and this, as tle sounds prove, is a dangereus leeality. “{f was drawn ‘here from my eamp up the river by the report of firearms and the sound of ‘war-w hoops, elie The Fighting Trio. ‘Please inform me who your friends are that seem to be besieged, and if their position is so dangerous as to cause them to leave you here alone in this wild place?” ‘* My father is Major La Coste. His wagon- train has been attacked by Indians. We ar- rived here from the Colorado last evening; but I was cut off from the train and chased by the Comanches into the river. A friendly Indian— a Tonkaway, called Rattlesnake—rescued me from whe stream and saved me from being cap- tured, ‘He killed two Indians when conveying me here, and then he placed me in this tree for safety, as we could not reach the wagons. ‘*Single-Eye, the scout, is our guide, and we bave four negro teamsters, with their fami- | lies. ‘‘Oh, sir! you little know the anguish and horror I have suffered. My poor mother an“ father, for aught [ know, may now be dead. What—oh, what shall 1 do? I cannot bear this torturing suspense!” ‘Miss La Coste, your experiences have been very trying indeed, and truly terrifying; but do not think of leaving this place of concealment until allis over, I intend to go to the assist- ance of your parents. : “T know the Tonkaway and Single-Eye. They are each feared more by the Comanches than a score of other men. ‘‘T hope you will consider me your friend. I am kuown as Lone Star, the scout, at your ser- vice.” ‘* And I am Lula La Coste.” Lone Star doffed his sombrero in polite salu- tation, gazing with respectful admiration at the young girl. Lula placed ber hand in his as she replied : Heaven bless you for your kindness! We need friends now, if ever. Papa did wrong in not heeding the advice of Single-Eye, and lo- cating on the Llano or the Colorado, But I must not talk of that. ‘*Tf you must leave me, please return as soon as possible, for I am frantic with fear and ap- prehension in regard to my parents.” ‘‘ Compose yourself,” said the young scout; “T think you are safe here, I will return as soon as I can do so. A man who would not risk his life for you must be a coward indeed. “Thank ydu ever so much for your confi- dence. I will endeavor to merit it and your friendship as well. Only be careful—” A series of exultant yells and whoops of sav- age fury from a half-dozen warriors, here inter- rupted Lone Star, these sounds issuing from the undergrowth all around him, The next moment he was jerked from his horse, a num- ber of war-painted braves clutching him! Then followed a terrible struggle. The momentary bewilderment of Lone Star was followed by most herculean efforts for liberty; the young, agile, and sinewy scout hurling his would-be captors right and left, thus gaining a moment’s freedom. He then fare his revolvers and blazed away right and left. The flish and the report of the revolvers of Lone Star were so rapid as to be simply ter- rific. His aim was accurate, and the death- yells sounded as echoes to the sharp reports that rung through the arches of the bottom-timber, And the shots told. Four braves fell, pierced through the heart, in as many instants; then a fifth spruog upon the young scout from the rear,and Lone Star just saved himself by springing aside, as the nife of the savage was thrust downward to pierce bis back, Dropping bis empty revolvers and drawing his bowie, the young scout met the Comunche, Both, after a few rapid passes, clutcbed and rolled down the bank into the washout, battling for the mastery. Two minutes after Lone Star climbed up the bank to the tree, panting with exertion, and still grasping his bowie, from the blade of which the blood was dripping. Hastily recovering his revolvers, he gazed up into the tree. There was no longer either trace or sign of | the golden-baired maiden. He called alond: ‘** Miss Lula! Oh, Miss Lula!” Darkness and silence ruled the bottom, al- though there was still a hellish din in the bend, where the conflict was still going on. The young scout felt that he was needed. He knew that his place was at the side of Single-Eye and the Tonkaway, yet his heart was tortured by the disappearance of the an- gelic maiden, to whom he had pledged his friendship. Se > Where was she? Had she sprung to the earth and fled? Had she succeeded, during bis desperate en- counter with the Comanches, in making her escape and joining her people at the wagons? In answer to these mental questions of tho young scout came a piercing sbriek of dread ter- ror and hopeless despair from the timber, afar down the stream, The cry was from female lips—from the lips of Lula La Coste, and none other! This Lone Star well knew, He bad. slain five braves, The sixth had taken advantage of the confusion to steal the maiden. To seek her before daylight would be worse than useless. With a deep sigh of anguish, followed by a vengeful oath, the young scout reloaded his weapons, signaled his horse—the animal emerg- ing from the thicket with a low whinny—and springing into the saddle he drove spurs, dash- ing toward the *‘open,” intending to charge to and enter the wagon-fort, and assist in its de- fense. CHAPTER IX. KNOWING THE WORST. WHEN Single-Eye left the Tonkaway chief in the bottom-timber in charge of Lula, he ran quickly and clambered into the wagon-fort; and well i5 was that he had correctly judged the po- sition of the war-party by the whoops, as, had he delayed a few minutes longer, it would have been impossible for him to have reached the wagons. In that case, the entire party would have been at the mercy of the Indians. Without the quieeset and prompt action of the old scout, all would have been either slain or captured at the first charge of the Comanches, He had regretted greatly the necessity of leav- ing Lula and Rattlesnake, but this could not be avoided. He realized at once, upon breaking from the undergrowth, that they would be too late in reaching the wagons. As much, therefore, as the Tonkaway was he would be forced to remain with ula. Single-Eye at once saw that the Comanches were confident of capturing the train, The very intonation of their whoops proved this, As he gained the inside of the fort, he cried out: “Ther leetle gal air safe, folkses! My pard, ther Tonkaway, hev gut her in ther timber. Don’t ax no questions. Fight air ther word! ‘*Boyees, all hustle hyer lively! Don’t crook a finger ontil I gi’ns ther word. Hyer they come!” The old scout had ordered all the teamsters into the wagon that stood broadside at the neck of the bend, toward the Comanches. There, each held bis cocked rifle, with cartridges in his mowth, and his revolvers lying iv front of bim, on a bale of goods, As Single-Eye proclaimed the safety of Lula, the gets mother sprung to her feet, crying aloud in her gratitude; the major eehoing her words, Aunt Lavine, and the negro women, were on their knees, in terror. Down upon them, came the whooping horde} It was a most terrifying and unearthly sight, and the fiendish cries were enough to unnerve any one, Major La Coste was firm as a rock, From the fact that bis daughter was safe, he had become more like himself; and was now, stern, cool, and determined. “Gt’n ’em Hail Columby on ther half-shell, boys! Sock yer cartridges inter yer sbooters lively! When I gi’ns ther word, grip sixes, an’ everlastin’ly pepe em!” Thus yelled the old scout, The six Sharpe’s rifles belched fire as one, and many of the Indians were seen to reel, and throw up their arms. Yet on they came, death-howls and whoops of war filling the air. Again the deadly rifles rung, and again, and yet again; but, although a dozen Conianches were left on the back trail, dead, or too badly wounded to keep their saddles, yet unharmed rode Coyote, still urging the remainder of bis braves in the desperate charge, but some twenty yards from the wagon-fort. Again Single-Eye yelled; “Sixes, bovees! We're gittin’ ther best o’ ther bellyuns!” Instantly followed a rattling discharge of re- volvers, while arrows flew like rain, burying their points in the wagon bodies. One of the teamsters fell forward, an arrow = ae Oa Te
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Ieee 5 ae gg » | cx ws: Ady ¢ . ee T = = " Fee MT RSS y YS CGE NARS The Fighting Trio. ‘through his vitals, while another received one -of the steel-pointed shafts in his arm. As for the Comanches, they were so terrified; ‘that they made a curve in their course, and dashed into the timber to avoid the bullets of their foes. But the old scout well knew that this disastrous charge would doubly infuriate them, and that they would now be more reck- less, and insane for revenge. The “open” of the bend was strewn with dead and dying Indians and mustangs, some of the braves chanting their death-songs in mono- tonous tones. Full a score of the savages lay thus. ‘*Cuss my cats!” said Single-Eye; ‘‘ thet’s ther bestest leetle fight I’ve seen in many a moon. But we-’uns must keep shady, an’ feed our shoeters, fer they’ll be needed ‘fore mornin’, bet yer sweet life!” ‘For the love of Heaven,” pleaded Major La Coste, as he reloaded; ‘‘ tell me of my child!” Single-Hye related all that the Tonkaway had told him, ‘““Why did they not accompany you to the wagon?” inquired the major. “Cos why, ther leetle gal war too weak ter stompede this-a-way es speedy es this old raw- hide ripper. Rattlesnake see’d thet ther red cusses would gobble ’em, an’ laid low in ther bush. Look out, boyees! Now yer’ll see a cir- cus!” As the old scout spoke,a score of braves dashed out from the timber, Coyote in the lead. Beyond them in a scattered manner urging their mustangs at speed—they having left their arms in the timber—were another party of war- riors, each of which, as he came to a prostrate comrade caught up the body before him, the saddle, turned quickly, and plunged again into the timber. Four more of the braves now dropped, with death-yells, and were also quickly caught up and carried off, amid vengeful and fearful howls. A Comanche will risk life to prevent the corpse of a comrade brave from being scalped by their foes. Just then came an exaggerated imitation of the warning of the ‘‘ pest of the prairies,” from the far end of the wagon in which our friends were stationed. “Thar’s ther Tonk, sure es shootin’!” cried out Single Eye. ‘I'd rather hear his music than ther barp of a thousan’ strings. Glide in, oa But, whar in thunder, air ther leetle a . As the old scout spoke, Rattlesnake sprung into the wagon. Altogether he presented a for- lorn appearance, but bis mien was brave and daring. Major La Coste grew pale, and trembled, as the old scouy asked for Lula. ‘*Sun-Hair up in tree. Comanche no find,” answered the Tonkaway. ‘‘ War-path open. Rattlesnake no stay in bush. Want sound war- ry. Want scalps.” ‘ Bully fer yeou, Tonk! Glad ther leetle gal air hunk. Scalps war plenty a bit ago, but ther red hellyuns bev scooped in all thar pards, what we-uns drapped. Whar’s yer shooter?” ‘* Rattlesnake’s horse, long gun, down river.” **Wa’al thar’s plenty hyer. Thar’ll be more fun directly.” Then noticing the anxious expression on the face of Major La Coste, Single-Eye inquired; “‘ Chief, air ther leetle gal all hunk, er kinder wilted? Air she piert, er sorter down in the mouth?” “Sun Hair like prairie flower when hot sun shine, and rain no fall from sky.” ‘« She’s bin worrited ’bout ter death, I reckon,” sid the old scout; ‘‘ but she’ll soon come roun’ nat’ral like. But we-’uns must keep our eyes apes Ther red scum air hatchin’ some new angled devilment, [ll bet my nag ag’in’ a cot- ton-tailed rabbit!” Mrs. La Coste‘and Miss Lavinia now became more composed and hopeful, and strove to en- courage the poor terrified negroes, and calm their fears. When the Tonkaway put in an appearance, they were at first dreadfully frightened; but, when they learned that he bad saved Lula from death, that he was a friendly Indian, and was come to aid in their defense, they became more hopeful, and looked with respect and regard upon the chief. They all now stationed themselves as directed by the old scout, and gazed toward the timber from their different stations, looking for an at- tack from any quarter. The full round moon shone down placidly, causing the open section of the bend to be al- most as light as day. All had become silent as the Comanches dis- appeared with their dead and wounded, in the dark shades; a silence which the old scout and the Tonkaway knew was ominous of coming Desperate, indeed, would be the next charge, for the red demons were furious at their danger. heavy loss, | anticipated. volver fusilade, and fearful death-yells. Single-Eye., look and pointed toward Major La Coste. mvstery to them. other direction, capture of the unfortunate maiden. CHAPTER X. A CHANGE OF BASE. THE mystery of the revolver-shots was soon explained; for, within three minutes’ time, Lone Star, the young scout, dashed from the timber, a half-dozen braves in hot pursuit, and filling the night air with their yells. Up to the side of the wagons, Lone Star gal- his horse about, faced the yelling crew, a revolver in each hand, and loped, and then, whirlin firing rapidly. At the seme time the yell of Single-Eye rung out and the war-cry of the tre healed as the Sharpe’s rifles belched fire and ead. Three of the braves fell to the earth and the next. moment the young scout was witbin the wagon-fort, Single-Eye crying out; ‘*Cuss my cats, ef hyer ain’t Lone Star, right side up wi’ care! Hev yer see’d a leetle gal any- whars in the bottom, pard?”’ The young scout was panting with exertion after his desperate encounter with the burly brave in the wash-out, and his hasty retreat. ‘** This air Major La Coste,” continued Single- Eye. ‘Ther outfit an’ ther leetle gal I’m axin’ *bout b’longs ter him.” “Yes, my friends,” at length answered Lone Star; ‘‘I have, ina most singular manuver met Miss Lula La Coste, Ihad been aware of the presence of this war-party since they arrived on the river this afternoon; but I did not dream that you or any other party of whites were in the vicinity, or I should have given warning in regard to the red devils. I heard the sounds of conflict and came immediately down the river. While sitting in my saddle, meditating as to how I could best come to your aid, I was ac- costed by a young lady who sat in a tree, just above and near me, ““Sbe expluined the situation of affairs, and her rescue by the Tonkaway chief; and I was about to bring her to ber parents, when six Comanche braves sprung from the under- growth, and dragged me from my horse. I killed five of the six, and then discovered, to my horror and concern, that the young lady had disappeared. The remaining Comanche had undoubtedly borne her away, during the conflict between myself and his fellows. ‘*T knew that it was useless for me to attempt a rescue, so I hastened to join, and confer with you.” Major La Coste sunk, with a groan of agony, upon a bale of goods, and covered his face with bis hands, The women had not been able to distinguish the words of the young scout, they bad been so low and guarded. “Cuss mv cats!” was the clamation of Single-Eye. “Waugh!” broke from the Tonkaway, as he drew his knife, and circled the blade in the air. ‘“Wa-al,” again spoke the old scout; ‘‘ hit hain’t no time ter worrytate ’bout anythin’, Major, brace up! Ther leetle gal ain’t goin’ ter git burted yet awhile. We-uns ‘ll git ber outen ther clutches o’ ther red hesthun, er flop over an’ make a die of hit a-tryin’.” ‘*Have no fears, Major Ia Coste,” added Lone Star, confidently and encouragingly; “your daughter sball be saved! I pledge my solitary ex- Buta few moments after the change in the stationing of the defenders of the fort, when all stood with rifles ready, they experienced a most amazing surprise; and one they had by no means Expectiug a dash from the Comanches on any or all sides, and consequently on the alert, with senses strained, all were startled by a series of terrific whoops and exultant yells from the direction of the river, followed by a rattling re- The Toukaway chief whirled and gazed at The old scout gave his red pard a warning Both knew by the yells that Lula had been discovered, but the report of fire-arms was a The major glanced inquiringly at the old scout, but Single Eye bent his attention in an- Both scout and chief knew that there was no chance, no bope, in an attempt to prevent the Cat Le Ti i sammie mene en ee cere . » ; os ie he 9 life in her service. Had I not feared you would be.all massacred, { would have secreted my horse, and traced the red fiend who has carried Miss Lula away. ‘But, rest assured she will be rescued. If I can be spared here, I will at once go in search of her; even though a bundred savage eyes may be watching my movments from the start.” “Hit won’t do,” said Single-Eye, emphati- cally. “Hit ’u'd jist ‘be like boldin’ yer head down ter be skinued. Ther bellyuns ’l) make some sorter break at ther wagons afore soon, an’ scupe in ther whole outfit, ef we-"uns ‘lows ther leetle gal ter botber us. ‘She'll be O. K. fer some periuds, an’ we’l) git her yit, sure es shootin’. She’ll be worrited some, but thet can’t be prevented. **Dang my skin! What’s up now?” The interruption was caused by the sounds of a fierce struggle in the west wagon. The Tonkaway sprung quickly into it, leaving the major in the east side of the little fort, pros- trated with grief and terror. ‘* Rouse up, major!” said Single-Eye, sharply. “All right boyees! Hit’s a trick ter draw all bands ter ther west side. Skin yer peepers, an’ git ready ter pick triggers.” A terrible struggle was in progress, in the west wagon. When Rattlesnake sprung to investigate, be saw a Comanche brave, close clutched by the negro teamster, each with a tight grip on the knife-wrist of the other, and both wedged between the goods and the side of the wagon. Quickly the chief sprung to the assistance of the negro, and drove his knife to the bilt in the warrior’s side. Before the knife could be with- drawn, another brave sprung under the tilt, directly upon the Tonkaway. The latter, bv a gigantic effort, arose, and threw his assa laxt violently agaiust the hind-board, as anotter brave sprung under the wagon-tilt. Then follcwed a most terrible conflict, Lone Star bounding to the assistance of bis red pard, This drew the attention of all except Single- Eye, who yelled: ‘« Hyer ther condemned skunks come! Sock hit to ’em hot an’ beavy, boyees! Never mind ther scrimmage in ther west waggin.” Having detected the tufted heads of the Co- manches in the tall grass, the old scout sprung to the assistance of the major, ordering the ne- gro, who had been stationed with him in the south wagon, to follow them. The foremost Indians, darted, at once, to the side of the wag- on, and crouched there. ‘“*Save yer sixes fer clos’ter work!” yelled Single Eye, as be fired bis rifle. He then re- loaded rapidly, the negroes following his ex- ample. . The din had now become awful. Shrieks from the women and children, war- whoops, death-yells and rallying cries filled the air. The hand-to-hand conflict in the west wagon had been terrible; but the agile and skillful young scout, and the muscular chief were nerved to battle fiercely by the piteous outcries around them, In five minutes all was over; and, one after another, the corpses of the four warriors who had sprung into the wagon were thrown out, scalpless, Howls of horror were now followed by venge- / ful war-cries, and a dozen tufted heads were thrust beneath the tilt. Then it was, that the terrible ‘Tonkaway was in lis element. He bad proved himself invincible, in the hand-to-hand combats, and now he clutched a brave by the hair, dexterously circled bis knife ‘ about the Comanche’s head, and tore the scalp from the shrieking warrior. At the same mo- ment, the revolver of Lone Star began to ‘*speak,” and to the point; the young scout planting a bullet into the brain of a savage, at every pull of of the trigger. Again rung the taunting war cry of the Tonk- away. The major, Single-Eye, and the two teamsters held their own; and in five minutes after the first discovery of the stealthily ap- proaching Comanches, alternate yells of venge- ful fury and whoops of war mingled with howls for the slain. Utterly exhausted, Rattlesnake and Lone Star were forced to seat themselves upon the bales to rest; the belt of the former hanging heavy with Comanche scalps. ‘By St. Jago! That was alively time, pard Rattlesnake,” said the young scout; ‘‘and you were very lucky to escape death. You had a close ca]l several times.” “Rattlesnake is a Tonkaway,” asserted the
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10 The Fighting Trio. pti nD ; chief, proudly. ‘‘Comanches are squaws. No good on war-path.” y ** Dang my ole gizzard ef we-’uns hesn’t saler- wated ’em purty bad!” put in Single-Eye, tear- ing off a huge chew of “ nigger-head” as he spoke, He then reloaded his revolvers, as did they all. Then the old scout continued: “ 'm opinin’ that we-’uns hes made ’em purty sick, an’ thet they won’t be lierble ter stompede in on us ag’in. Ef ther leetle gal war only byer, i'd hev a strong appertite ter whistle ‘ Yankee Doodle,’ feelin’ piert an’ full o’ glad more’n I ever reckoned I would.” ‘*T can’t bear this suspense and anguish,” ex- claimed the major in a hoarse voice. “I must make an effort tosave my child from the red d mons, After losing so many of their warriors the survivors will be furious, and may torture her, ‘*T must make an attempt to find her or my brain will burst!” ** Yer c’u’dn’t never find her, major,” said the old scout with some impatience; ‘an’ ef yer aid, thet’s all ther good hit ’u’d do yer. ‘Ther reds ’u’d gobble yer up an’ tortur’ yer, dead sure an’ sartain. Lone Star, does yer s’pose ther hellyuns ’ll make another break et we-uns?” a is difficult to say. What do you think, ebief? ‘*Comanche heap mad. Burn wagons next. Send fire-arrows from timber.” **Cuss my cate ef I doesn’t b’lieve ye’re right, Tonk; an’ ef they does, we’re goners! What’s ter be did?’ ‘*T advise an evacuation,” said Lone Star. ‘¢ What in thunderation’s thet?” “Why, I think we’d better retreat to the tim- ber west of us, keeping in a line with the wa- gons, ‘Just now the Indians are probably confer- ring together and will not discover us. ‘* We can retreat up the river, bide the women and children in a dry wash-out or thicket and then search for Miss Lula.” ‘* For Heaven’s sake let us do so at once!” pleaded the major. ‘‘If those fiends fire the wagons we are lost. I have several kegs of powder along.” ‘*My white brother’s words good,” said Rat- tlesnake, “Come on, then, boyees! word!” All sprung into the interior of the wagon-fort and Single-Eye hurriedly explained their plan to the women. In two minutes more the three blacks with their wives and children, the youngest being borne in arms, were with Mrs. La Coste and Aunt Lavine, being hurried through the timber up-stream, guided by Lone Star. The old scout and tne chief brought up the eeers keeping guard and watching on the back trail. The wagon-fort was thus left with naught except bales and corpses within and around it. CHAPTER XI. THE TONKAWAYS VOW. WHEN the six Comanches uttered their fear- ful war-whoop and sprung from the bushes upon Lone Star, poor Lula La Coste was not only filled with dread terror and deep concern for the safety of the young scout, but she was by these feelings rendered incapable of speech or motion, The beautiful young girl, after passing through, in soshort a time, experiences awful to think of, was paralyzed with fear and appre- hension. Her eyes were fixed in horror and torturing anxiety upon the youthful stranger, who was battling for life against such great odds. The sharp reports of his revolver so near to her, and the death-yells, together with the fall of the braves one after another—shown in the ghastly moonlight, which rendered all black in the soade—all this dazed ber brain, and her starting eyes were filled with horror, while her features were drawn and unnatural, It was when in this state, while Lone Star and the fifth savage rolled down the wash-out in a deadly band-to-hand conflict, that the poor girl was jerked roughly from her perch in the tree down invo the arms of a most hideous Co- manche brave, whose painted face, revealed by an arrow of moonlight, caused her the utmost aversion and terror. She strove tocry eut, but her tongue clove to the roof of her mouth, and the brave burried away with her down the river and through the dense undergrowth. All bope deserted the angelic girl! Levant air ther She could hear the terrible sounds of savage war, and the rapid detonations of the rifles, exploding, as she weil knew, in the camp of her father. She feared that her parents and the faithful slaves were being massacred. Lone Star, she had no doubt, was slain. The thought of all this gave the poor girl the most torturing anguish. She was now ruled by a despair that was deathlike in its inten- sity. She closed ber eyes and strove to pray men- tally for deliverance. Soon she recovered from ber dazed condition, but she knew that to shriek out would do no good, but might cause her to be treated with more cruel brutality. Lula looked for nothing but death at the hands of her red captors. Not a word bad the brave spoken, who clutch- ed her in his arms so tightly as to cause her no little pain, On and on he rushed, a grunt of exultation and self-congratulation now and then bursting from his brutal lips. Some distance was gone over in this way, when the warrior changed the direction of his course, soon emerging into a natural opening in the timber illumined by the moon, As he sprung free from the undergrowth, he gave a whoop of triumph. Immediately this was echoed by many Co- manches—a terrible sound, which caused poor Lula to shudder with alarm and borror. A terrible fascination, which she could not control, forced her to open her eyes as her cap tor halted; and she found berself in the midst of a horde of war-painted braves. Many mustangs were standing on the verge of the *‘ open,” secured by jaw-straps to saplings; the animals prancing about, in seeming fright, with wild and frantic snorts. In the middle of the ‘‘open” lay a number of dead Comanches, the moonlight showing tbe gaping wounds and gory stains, and playing upon the glassy and sightless eyes. Several wounded braves lay near the dead, their heads suppotted by saddles and blankets; some chanting their dreary, monotonous death- songs. Painted braves stood, weapons in hand, ina massed circle, around her; their snaky eyes darting glances of exultation, mingled with awe and wonder. One of these, with three eagle-plumes in his fillet, gazed in gloating admiration and amaze- ment into her face, feeling her hair, and run- ning his fingers through the long golden tresses. “Ugh! Itis good. Deer-Foot sball have an eagle-feather. Coyote will place it in his fillet with bisown band. Bind the white squaw to a tree. Come, braves of the Llanos! The Texan dogs must sound death-yells, Their scalps must hang at our belts, ‘“Look! Many braves have gone on the long dark trail. Texanos and negroes must die!” Lula was placea upon ber feet by her proud, exultant captor, whe was greatly elated by the distinction and praise he had gained; so much so, that be dared not reveal the fate of bis com- rades, all five of whom had lost their lives in the attempt to capture the white squaw. Neither did Deer-Foot inform bis chief of the arrival of the young scout near the wagon camp, although ‘his tribe bad good cause for knowing and hating Lone Star. Poor Lula could with difficulty maintain a standing position. She trembled in every limb, with borror, at the fearful surroundings. At the order, given by Coyote, every brave, except a balf-dozen guards, bounded to their mustangs, and vaulted into their peculiar sad- dles, lashing the animals near their chief, who had beld his horse by a jaw-strap, as Lula had been borne to bis side. This the hopeless maiden saw, and she felt sure that all of the wagon-train were doomed. Then she was forced by her captor into the timber on the border of the ‘‘ open,” and there bound to a large tree; her arms being drawn back, around the trunk of the same. Having accomplished this, Deer-Foot threw himself, at full length, near the feet of Lula, and there lay looking up into her face, At length a copious flow of tears relieved the overtaxed brain of the poor girl; her head sunk forward, her wealth of golden bair vailing her face, and hanging nearly to her knees. “Ugh!” grunted Deer-Foot. ‘*‘ Heap good scalp. Good forshield of chief.” These were the first words that bad been spoken by her hideous captor, but Lula showed no indication of having heard him. But a few moments passed, when two braves, from the “ open,” stalked to the side of the cap- tive, and g at her, uttering significant grunte; but they were at once reminded of their duty by the ringing war-whoops of the main party, from the vicinity of the wagon-camp. A Gad ery of anguish burst from Lula at the horrible sounds, and her head sunk lower, her form being sustained by the cruel cords about her wrists, which extended around the tree- trunk. Her senses had, in mercy, left her! For half a mile, or more, were the terrified women and children conducted from the wagon- fort when a wash-out was reached, into the bed of which all descended. They then followed the same away from the river, it becoming narrower as thoy progressed, and also more shallow, until a point was reached where the bushes which grew on either bank formed a dense archway over- head. Dark as Erebus was it at this point, and Lone Star halted, saying, in a low voice: ‘‘Here, my friends, I believe you will be safe from discovery. There will be no danger from the Comanches, until morning, at least. What say you, pards?” “« Heap good. Comanche no find in dark.” Thus spoke the Tonkaway. ‘* Hit air all hunk ter lay low in,” said Single- Eye. ‘An’ I reckon yer’ll keep sorter calm ; 1’ quiet. Ther black folkses hev behaved orm'g*tv well so fur, an’ they must keep thar chin-music bottled up fer futur’ use. Ther major, J opine, air ekil ter guardin’ this outfit ontil dayli¢ii. ‘““Yer can’t do any good, major, by xoin’ with we-uns, fer yer ain’t used ter snakin’ hit through ther brush in ther dark. Lone Ster, the Tonk, an this byer ole raw-hide ’!] scout ’roun’ a bit, givin’ ther red hellyuns a_ spes’min 0’ shootin’, mebbe, an’ huntin’ fer yer leetie gal. ‘«She bev gut ter be reskied, er we'll all lose ha’r. Ef we~uns doesn’t turn up by sun-up, yer kin jump mules, an’ skute fer Fort Mason, ‘« Howsomever, I reckon thet it ain’t recorded thet all on us air goin’ ter flop over an’ make a die o’ hit. Keep a stiff upper lip, major, an’ kinder console ther weemin folkses, an’ we’ll, some on us, see yer later on.” ‘You are right,” said Major La Coste; “and may Heaven prosper you! I know that I am inexperienced in savage warfare, and that it is as much my duty to protect the helpless here, as to search for my daughter. I hope, from my inmost soul, that none of you will be injurea, and that you will find, and rescue my darling child, although it does seem an impossibility.” Poor Mrs, La Coste grasped the hands of each of the scouts in turn, but was unable to speak. “T know,” said Aunt Lavine, “that if you can, you will save the poor child from those wretched savages, and bring her back to her father and mother.” ‘‘Cuss my cats, ef we doesn’t do hit, Miss Lavine, er bu’st up ther bull univorse!” So said Single-Eye, and his meaning could not be mistaken, ‘‘ If it be among the possibilities,” added Lone Star, ‘‘Miss Lula shall be rescued. I would willingly lose my own life to save hers!” The Tonkaway stood silent for a few mo- ments. Then he said, with more than his ac- customed energy of voice and manner: ‘‘Sun-Hair sball ride white mustang. on prairie, to Fort Mason. Rattlesnake say: Co- manche no torture Sun-Hair. I have spoken.” With these assuring words, tbe chief and his two white pards, Lone Star and Single Eye, left the wash-out, and disappeared in the dark undergrowth, on the back trail, in the direction of *he little bend and the wagon-fort. CHAPTER XII. THE FIRE-FIEND. Brerore the trio of scouts had proceeded ten yards, the war-whoops of the Comanches rung through the timber. ““Dog-gone hit, ef ther hellyuns ain’t at hit again!” said Single Eye, in a low voice. ‘They'll be everlastin’ly bemboozled when they find thet thar game hev skedaddled; an’ they'll r’ar an’ rage purty p’ison, I reckon. ‘*Lone Star, ther weemin an’ children kin thank yeou, fer ’scapin’, an’ not gittin’ thar heads skinned. Dang’d ef ther red cusses ain’t kickin’ up a ole’ he-rumpus! What sort of a lunge shell, we’uns make at’em? Le’s hev a council-talk, Tonk.” ‘*Council-talk good,” tersely. All halted, Lone Star having evidently been engaged in deep thought, in connection with the fair maiden, and her proposed rescue. returned the chief
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‘Neg D Blagle- -Eye noticed the unusual preoccupation of the oung scout, and guessed the cause, but he made no comment. The manner and words of Lone Star con- vinced him that his young pard bad been greatly impressed by Lula; which the old man hought perfectly natural. In fact, be would have felt, highly indignant, had not the youth expressed himself as he did. ‘Whatever plan you may have formed, either of you, pards,” said the young scout, ina firm and determined voice, “and I presume, knowing you as I do, that the rescue of Miss La Coste is uppermost in your minds, you may rest ! assured that I, at least, will proceed at once to trace her out, and rescue her at all bazards, It is torture to know that she is now in tue power of those merciless red devils. ‘Every moment since I saw her, has been filled with apprehension and anguish on her ac- count. ‘Plainly speaking, the wagons can go to the Old Scratch! I shall set out at once on the search for the poor girl, who is suffering every terror at this moment.’ ‘‘Thet’s ther sort o’ gab I likes ter hear yer spit out, pard!” returned Single-Eye. bestest way ter perceed, air fer me an’ ther Tonk ter crawl in ther bush on ther west side, era leetle furder south, an’ kinder draw ther ‘tention o’ ther red coyotes from ther east’ard, whar I reckons yer’ll find ther leetle gal. Ain't thet ther p’ogramme, Tonk?” ‘Heap good!” agreed the chief, laconically. “"Nough said. Le’s levant! Shake, pard! An’ ef any on jus aire scrooged inter kingdom come, bit’ll be in a good cause.” All grasped hands at this, aad parted. Rattlesnake kept on straigbt ahead, and Sin- gle Eye diverged toward the plain for some dis- tance, and then stole to the border for the un- dergrowth, to the south of the wagon-fort. When they peered forth, not a Comanche was within view, and the whoops had ceased. All was silent: but it was a silence that was ominous of something fearful to come. Nos until this moment did the old scout realize the fact, that the major, and all with him in the wash-out, were in danger of discov- \ery. This was brough ht to his mind by the si- lence that ruled in the San Saba bottom. His mind was now filled with great apprenhension and concern. He could only hope that the fugi- tives would refrain from betraying their pre- sence, by keeping perfectly silent. The necessity of rescuing Lula was too press- ing to be neglected for a moment, The Comanches, infuriated at the wholesale death which bad overwhelmed them, might, in their madness, torture the fair girl at any moment, Single-Eye forced all forebodings of danger to the fugitives to the background, knowing that all his energies must be bent to the present moment; for he detected the rustle of branches on the opposite side of the open,” and knew that some plan was being put in practice for the cap- ture, or death, of those who were supposed to be still in the wagons. The old scout bent his one optic in a searching gaze upon the trees opposite, Then his rifle was raised to his shoulder, and he took deliberate aim and fired. The whip-like crack of the weapon was fol- lowed close after, by that of the Tonkaway’s carbine, which sounded from toward the river. Instantly horrible death-yells shot from the trees opposite them; and, down through the branches fell two Comanche br: ves, the corpses lying within the clear space in plain view. A borrible how] from the braves in the tim- ber followed the sou'd of the sickening thuds of the two warriors from the tree-top. The Comanches were furiously frantic. No sooner had the how! of the war-party died away, than out from among the brancbes, came a flight of fire-arrows, directly upon, and into the wagon-fort. The next moment the tilts burst into a furious blaze, the forked flames leaping upward; and, _ at the same time, two more sharp rifle reports rung out, and another pair of warriors went crashing to the earth, Then, out from the dense undergrowth dashed the Comanches, on their frantic mustangs, and surrounded the burning wagons, shooting volley _ after volley into the flames, Single-Eve knew, by their manner, that the ee believed their victims to be in the little ‘ort, The wagons were now one mass of fire. With whoops and yells, the painted demons ‘galloped around the burning ‘iiss tnt in mad ‘glee. But nda they halted. sf - Pay iran pb ; ‘ 0 See ee “Ther | fire, gazed n e a ne “The e Fiehti They bad expected the whites and blacks to rush out at once, when they could cut down or ba tery them, hey now believed that the fire had cheated them out of their revenge. They lashed their horses nearer to the flames. Then it was tbat a great cloud of smoke flew upward; tbe flames were banished for an instant, ‘and a terrific explosion occurred, send- ing burning fragments of wood and cloth in every direction! It set on fire the tails and manes of many of the horses, and the scalp decorations of the dumfounded braves. One wagon-wheel was shot from the axle-tree, and whirled with terrific velocity, killing a warrior instantly and cutting bis horse in two. It then flew, crashing into the undergrowth, within three feet of the crouching Single- -Eye, who was now shaking with half-suppressed mirth at the ‘‘ boss circus.” The scene in the ‘“‘ open” of the bend was truly a terrible one. After the explosion the debris burned more brightly, and the fragments burst into bright flames. Never were seen more frantic, maddened mustangs, as they dashed hither and thither in their agony, hurling their red riders over their heads; in one instance, directly among the burning remains of the wagons, Shrieks, howls, yells and rallying-cries filled the bend. Some braves, tortured, like their steeds, by burns, lashed their animals through the under- growth, over the bank, with a plunge and spatter, into the San Saba. Luckily the grass was green, or the fire would have sped fearfully; as it was, little blazes sprung up amid the dry leaves of the bottom- timber on every side. To say that the Indians were terrified is to put it mildly. Many, filled with superstitious awe, thought that the Good Spirit was enraged at the capture of the golden-haired squaw, and had, in consequence, doomed the war-party to destruction. The explosion was like the thunder of his bisie but it was such as they had never before eard Several times Single-Eye raised his rifle to his shoulder, and drew bead upon some paint- daubed brave; and then, lowering his weapon, with a grim, self-satisfied smile, would view the scene. In the midst of the confusion came the well- kuown hiss that signaled the approaco of Rattle- snake, the Tonkaway chief, “Cass my cats!” exclaimed the old scout, as he sprung to bis feet. The Tonkaway stood erect before bim, looking so different in bis niud-stained and saturated buckskins, and bis crushed eagle-feathers—nuow revealed by the fire-light—that Single-Eye could scarce contro) his laughter at the sight. The chief gazed into the face of bis white pard in evident surprise; suspicious, ap arent) y, that the explosion had unsettled the aid man’s mind. This thought was quickly dispelled, however, by the return of Single-Eye’s usual expression of countenance, *Look!” said the Tonkaway, ‘heap fire. Heap thunder-sound. Comanche heap scare. Good time for scalp. Rattlesnake’s knife jump in sheath.” ‘* Pard, dang’d ef I ain’t glad ter see yer show up! Didn't know but what yer war sot afire, er blowed inter kingdom come, Thet war ther bestest slam- “up XXX circus I ever see’d. This hyer air a p’ison hot night an’ ormighty on- healthy fer Curmanches. ** Cuss my cats, ef yer doesn’t look es though ty bin dragged through chap’ral an’ bog- oles by forty hosses! Take a look inter yer glass, Tonk!” The chief produced asm2ll round mirror from his psint-pouch, and turning his back to the into it for a moment. He then viewed his form from bead to foot, slowly and deliberately. The old scout had not up to this time dis- covered the plight of his red pard, owing to the darkness, and Rattlesnake had evidently not given a thought to bis personal appearance, althoughjusually particular in the extreme in this respect. “* Waugh!” eee was said in evident surprise and dis- gust = Never mind, Tonk! We'll fix up a bit arter ther scrimmage gir over. Ther major’s pps inc an’ hull outfit bev gone ter smash, I reckon ther sight ’ll make him sick enough ter puke up his knee-pans!” ges ete S- z = Ser thank cof Weasia LoS Wake Heke ed bak ae Spirit got scalp on ead a Dew: goned ef yer ain’t kerrect, es usual! Whar does yer s’ pose ther leetle gal. air? Hev yer see’d anythin’ o’ Lone Star?” ““No see. No hear. Sun-Hair over there where | dead Comanches ”—pointing across the “ open” | of the bend—“ thick, same as dry leaves.” ‘Hedn’t we’uns better glide up, an’ ’vester- gate things?” “Good! Come! Rattlesnake on war-path.. Want scalps. Want hear death-yells.” “But how ’bout ther weemin? Ther cuss may drop inter ther wash out an’ kerral ther hull capoodle.” ‘Rattlesnake no see three shoots. how many Comanches in wood, braves hunt for mules before Come! Sun-Hair heap sick. “Glide long! I’m with yer ontil ther last toot sounds. Cuss my cats ef I ain’t gittin” wae *n bilious every time I thinks o’ ther Mbatio ga The red and white scouts then stole through the undergrowth toward the narrow opening to ~ plain,- leaving fire and confusion behind. hem. No tell Mebbe so ow der-thunder. eap scare.” CHAPTER XIiIl. LONE STAR TO THE RESCUE. WHEN the young scout reacbed a point some distance east of the swell of the bend, within which was the wagon-fort, he turned south- ward, aiming to gain a position near the place from which the Comanches had charged upon the wagons, His advance thus far had been made with great caution, for he knew not at what moment he might come upon some lurking savage. Soon the sharp and startling reports of the rifles of Single-Eye and the Tonkaway burst upon his ears, echoing with great distinctness through the natural arches of the bottom-tim- ber. This was followed by deatb-yells and whoops of rage, so near to his position that Lone Star turned more to the eastward, crawling now upon his hands and knees. The reports of the rifles again sounded, Lone Star became conscious of a brightening. up of the timber, which increased each moment, and he decided that the promneny of the: Tonk- away had come to pass, and that the Indians. had fired the wagons. Knowing, through Major La Coste, that there was a large quantity of gunpowder in the vehi- cles, the young man crouched behind a huge tree-trunk, While there his gaze was drawn ae ard, and he discovered a portion of the body a wagon, which had evidently been blown bigh in «2 by the explosion, lodged in the tree~ tops, and now prec 5 brightly. |. As he thus looked, the flaming fragment of the wagon fell from limb to limb, tbrow-. ing out, on all sides, ten thousand fiery sparks, At this moment the rust of a mustang, with its tail in a blaze, toward the river, lashed on by a burly brave, attracted the attention of Lone Star. But this was only for an instant, for the light revealed something more, No sooner did the young scout again look than he threw himself quickly upon the carpet of leaves and wormed bis way into a thicket, his eyes fixed and staring at the spectacle shown him by the flames, The scene was harrowing in the extreme and yet he felt the most intense relief pe joy. Not twenty paces to the eastward be saw the form of poor Lula La Coste, her arms drawn backward, around the trunk of a tree, and se- cured in that painful position. Lone Star well knew thatsbe was unconscious, that she had succumbed to the horrors'of the night, and be could not suppress a groan of an- guish at the sight. A burly brave, of seeming gigantic size, stood near the fair captive, and scemed frozen to the spot with superstitious dread, although the ex- plosion, which bad so paralyzed bim, had failed to make any impression upon the senseless maiden. Thus he stood, apparently petri- oo his tracks, but with a hatchet io his an That this Comanche meditated brainin and scalping the beautiful captive, and then fleeing for his life, Lone Star at once decided; and he immediately crawled forward, thanking the fates that the Indian was facing the recently- fallen fragments of the burning wagon. The crackling of leaves and twigs favored the youth approach; the slight sounds, caused b is crawling th rough the thicket, blending with those of the fire. A ;
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12 Well he knew that the Comanche brave was far strouger than himself; yet he must slay him with his knife. He feared to use bis revolver, as the report would draw the braves, who were recovering from the fright caused by the explosion, to the spot; and then, both Lula and himself would be slain outrighé. The whole timber was now illuminated, more or less, by the flames, which cast a flood of light between the tops of the undergrowth, and the lower limbs of tue trees. The serpent-like Lone Star stole forward, un- til within some six paces of his intended victim: when, arising to his feet, he stepped clear of the undergrowth, jerking his bowie from its sheath. He realized that he would be fighting under great disadvantage; nevertheless he hesitated not. Giving one glance at Lula’s drooping form, he gathered al! his muscular strength, nerved himself for the conflict, and sprung, in far- reaching bounds, upon the Comanche guard. At the very insiant that the young scout made this pantver-like bound, the brave, his senses acute and on the alert, discovered his foe, but so startled was the savage that, for a mo- ment, bis arms hung limp, and the made no motion to raise his tomahawk, uickly, however, the warrior recovered him- self, and sprung backward, at the same time raising his batchet over his bead for a terrible blow; but, as the weapon descended, the young scout caught the wrist of his foe in a vise like grip, and buried his bowie in the breast of the omanche. But, it had struck too high up to cause a mortal wound, and the steel grated against the collar bone, In another moment, they were rolling over and over, in desperate endeavor for the mas- tery; their limbs interlocked, and the savage having drawn his long scalping-knife. Then it was that Lula’s head was slowly raised, and she managed, after a time, to view her surroundings. But ber features were convulsed with terror, at the sounds and sights, so s range and un- earthly, that met ber eye and ear. At first, she did not perceive the two des- perately struggling men; but, when she did, and recognized the handsome stranger, who had battled so bravely to prevent her capture, she strove to cry out, The attempt, however, was fruitless. All the agony she had endured seemed as nothing to that which she now experienced, at witnessing the fierce conflict before her. The writbing forms rolled over and over, this way and that; their limbs thrasbing the ground ‘violently, and once both came near rolling into the fire. Upon the success of the young scout, ber life Sppended; yet Lula La Coste thought not of this, in her dread anxiety. She only thought -of him, who was in such “eadly peril. Suddenly each, clutching the knife wrist of the other, sprung to his feet, thus standing glar- ing into each other’s eyes witb murderous fury, and both panting laboriously. Then it was that the captive maiden found “voice. Had Lone Star suddenly received a shock from an electric battery which doubled strength and agility, his movements would not have been more instantaneous and beyond human power to combat, With a herculean effort he forced the brave backward, and at the same time shot his foot forward behind the heel of the Comanche. The latter now fell, as if shot through the ‘brain, to the ground, upon his back, Lone Star falling heavily upon his foe. The same instant the young scout wrenched ‘his wrist free from the grip of the bravo, who was for the mument stunned by the shock, and the breath knocked out of him. Then up went the blade of Lone Star, glitter ing in the firelight.. Av instant thus, and then, with a horrible, sickening sound, it was plunged through flesh and bone to the buckborn in the Indian’s breast. At the same time the young scout thrust bis sombrero over the mouth of his victim, thus preventing the deatb-yell. Blood spurted from the breast of the Coman- che as Lone Star jerked out his knife from the gaping wound. A convulsive tremor shook the red-man’s strong frame, follcowed by a gasping and gurgling sound, Then all was over. Springing to bis feet, the youth hastily wiped ‘the blood from bis knife upon the leggins of bis victim, He then slashed Lula free from the ervel bonds, clasping her to his breast in his reat reliof and jey at having won the desperate Sour, aod saved her from a forrible fate, ae neta rs eter | 7 A ea ee SY aneKe Prony . The Fighting Trio. Still clasping her in his arms, Lone Star rushed eastward through the timber, his heart filled with emotions strange and most heavenly, and such as he had never before dreamed a hu- man being capable of enjoying. And tbus trustingly and lovingly, with arms around the nec of her brave preserver, her cheek to bis, ber golden hair flying over bis shoulder and mingling with his own wavy locks of brown—thus on through the wood they went leaving firelight and savage, merciless foes, an also loved friends, behind them. But they thought little of either at that time. On they plunged into the dark sbades, their hearts fil a however, with a glorious light, and a joy and relief that was inexpre.sible. CHAPTER XIV. ‘OUT OF THE HURLY-BURLY.” WuHeEn Single Eye and Rattlesnake reached the narrow portion of the entrance to the bend, and were perring out from the bushes down to- ward the burning wagons, to ascertain if they could drt across without being seen, their pro- osed advance to discover if Lone Star had earned the position of Lula, was abandoned; both being filled with the deepest concern and apprehension by hearing the report of a rifle, followed by several revolver-shots which sound- ed from a little distance up the river. “Cuss my cats!” exclafmed the old scout in the greatest amazement and with a discouraged intonation of voice as he sprung further back into the bushes; ‘‘ dang’d ef ther cussed coyotes hain’t tumbled inter tober wash out, an’ diskiv- ered ther major an’ ther weemin! “Come on, Tonk! They’ll hash ther female weemin an’ leetle ones inter cat fish bait ef we- uns doeso’t hustle ourselves. Things air gittin’ mixeder and mixeder.” *“Waugh!” was the emphatic ejaculation of the Tonkaway, as he made ready for the run. And away the pair went, dashing out on the plain and down the border of the timber as fast as they could run, thus avoiding the difficult way through the bottom undergrowth. But a very short time elapsed when the white and red scouts reached a point directly in a line with the wash-out, as they judged and cor- rectly. During the run they bad beard several ring- ing war-cries and signal-yells wmen proved that but a few Comanches were in the vicinity of the wash-out, The greater number of the war-party were now around the burning wagons. After losing balf of their number, notbing had been gained, and they were now insanely eager for revenge, Just as Single-Eye and Ractlesnake were about to plunge into the timber, to the assist- ance of Major La Coste, a piercing and peculiar yell sounded from the direction of the bend. his caused a chorus of frantic yells of rage to sound from the neighborhood of the burning wagons. ‘““Waugh!” said the Tonkaway. heap mad. Lone Star steal Sun-Hair. good.” ‘ Bully for Lone Star!” returned the old scout, “ Dang’d ef I c’u’dn't jump ther San Saba fer pure glad! Ther leetle gal air all hunk. **Come on fer ther major! Hit’s lucky ther niggers driv ther mules a len’thy stretch up ther drink, es I tole ’em, er ther anermiles ’u’d ’a’ bin gobbled up afore this.” All was still as death in the vicinity of the wash out, This caused the two scouts to ad- vance more cautiously. The silence implied that the repulsed Indians were still in the shades, awaiting their comrades whom they had signaled, The Tonkaway found the head of the gully, and both followed it until they felt sure that they were in the vicinity of the point at which they had left the major and bis party. Then they halted and listened intently. They did not think it prudent to advance fur- ther, If Major La Coste still lived and was on the alert, he might take them for enemies, and shoot at them If they advanced, they must do so in a very stealthy manner. A whispered consultation oh the two decided the course to be pur- sued, Both sunk to the earth and crawled down the wash-out; their rifles slung to their backs, It was quite dark in the gully; but at some points tke moonlight pierced within the foliage. Rattlesnake gave his usual signal, hoping that the major would recognize it. Nor was he disappointed, * Thank God! Hel p comes at last!” ** Comanche It is | voice, which reached the ears of the scouts. Both arose and advanced toward the speaker, ‘* Major La Coste!” Thus called Single-Eye in a cautious tone, ‘*T am here! hat news?” ‘* Lone Star hes reskied Miss Lula. We-uns gi him er her, but we knows by ther ells, ‘* May the Lord forever bless him!” said the major fervently, ‘** Amen!” came from the lips of Mrs. La Coste and Miss Lavinia simultaneously, “What in thunderation’s bin ther rumpus hyeraways?” asked Single Eye. ‘ We-uns heard yer shooters. Did ther hellyuns run in on yer q? He then perceived that two of the teamsters stood a short distance below their master, and that one lay in the wash-out, deed—the second of the negroes slain during the night. ‘* A small party—perhaps haif a dozen—came prowling this way and discovered us. Wo shot four, I think; but they killed poor Dick, ono or the best boys I ever owned. ‘I know by the explosion that my wagons and goods are destroyed; but I shall feel only too thankful if our lives are spared.” ‘* Which won’t bo fer long, major, ef yer lin- gers byes. Dang hit, man! Tter bull war- party’ll be rushin’ on a wild stompedo this-a- way. ** Levant’s ther word, an’ lively timc must be made, er ther bull lay-out ’l) -o ter smash, same es ther wagons; though without so hefty a noise, Ef thar warn’t but one red got away, hit ’u’d be enough ter rouse ther bull war-party. **] reckon by ther row down vundor bein’ stopped, thet ther condemned skunks air on ther rush ter gobble yer up a’ready, ** Boyees, gather up ther babies an’ git furder west! We-’uns must find ther mules, er wo’re goners. Gin Marm La Coste an’ Miss Lavine a helpiu’-band, major, an’ then skute! ‘Ther Tork ‘li guide yer, an’ I'll fotch up abint ready fer biz. Whar in thunderation’s ther Tonk? As the old scout propounded the question, the chief strode down the bank of the wash- out, with four reeking scalps in bis left hand, his blood-stained bowie in the other. ‘* Here is our red friend,” said the major. ‘‘Ya-as, I see,” returned Single-Eye. ‘‘ He’s boun’ not ter leave a Comanche layin’ ’roun’ loose, without skinnin’ ther head o’ ther carkiss.” All now prepared hastily for their dep» rture. The little negroes, who were in deep slumber, were awakened witb care, and frightened into maintaining silence. Their mothers needed no cautioning, for they were dumb with grief and terror. None thought of the destruction of the wagons, AlJl feared that the next moment might be their last on earth. Under the whispered direction of the old scout, they proceeded up tbe west bank of the wash-out; the women bearing in their arms the black babies, aud Rattlesnake in the lead~a position he liked not. ““ Squaws and pappooses no good on war- atb.’ This, the chief said in a low tone to Single- Eye, in evident disappointment. His one anxiety was to scout for scalps. Nevertheless he offered no further objections to acting as guide, Thus, on they went, Mejor La Coste and the old scout guarding the rear. Soon fierce war-whoops sounded from down the river. The Comanches had evidently recovered from the demoralization caused by the explosion, and were once more frantic for vengeance, “Ther ornary baked-dog-eaters air comin’ up ther drink, on ther rampage, major! “Ef we ’nns doesn’t strike ther mules, an’ git, this air a bu’sted outfit, clean through, sure es shootin’! Ef ther anermiles hes levanted, ther only show fer our ha’r air ter bunt a hole in ther groun’ an’ drag ther hole arier us, ‘*Dang'd ef I ain’t gittiu’ so bilious I kin taste hit, though I hes tored more ‘ nigger head’ ter-night, than I usually does in a week!” “Tf I was not sure that my daughter is safe, as you and Rattlesnake assert,” returned the major, ‘‘I should be tempted to blow my own brains out. All this is my own fault, and I am in a terrible state of mind, a Oh, that I bad but listened to your advice!” “ Hit’s too late now, major. Yer can’t pick up t milk, an’ thar’s no use talkin’. I tole ye war buckin’ ag’in death an’ destruction, glide this-a-ways. This was said ina low, but deep and hoarse
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Re on ta ee ern Ace, aa en eA SPR og aa ka a Vv ‘Rs ter blowin’ out brains, thar’s a power 0’ red hellyuns ahindt we-uns, what needs ter hev thar hull cabases blowed off; an’ yer’d be a dang’d sight wuss tortur’d ef they gut a hold on yer, me on ’em gut blowed inter ther Injun bad place, et ther ’splosion; which air a van ie sorter ’stan’ off fer losin’ ther wagons. a i ‘* Keep a stiff upper lip, an’ never say die, es long es thar’s a show ter draw in breathe. Ef we-uns hedn’t ther weemin an’ leetle ones “long, I'd jist lay down, an’ roll, an’ laugh, an’ t’ar grass; I’'d be so chock-full o’ glad et bevin’ a chance ter skute ’roun’ ther timber, an’ bore reijs, an’ skin thar heads, wi’ taer Tonk an’ a. Lone Star! “*Cuss my cats, ef ther chief hain’t sun dead ag’in’ ther anermiles! Dog-gone my gizzard, ef I doesn’t b’lieve we’re goin’ ter skin through!” The old scout was right, for the party broke into a natural “open,” in which the mules stood listlessly, and half a asleep, after grazing to their stomach’s content, The Tonkaway chief halted. Single-Eye now gave his orders, in a rapid and decisive manner. The more gentle of the animals were caught, the neck ropes being placed with a twist about the lower jaws. The women were then placed astride, with the babes in their arms, and the ropes were passed to them, after being coiled, and then secured thus, at the right length. The older children were also, in like manner, mounted; and then, the major, the old scout, the Tonkaway, and two slave teamsters selected their own. This accomplished, all rode out from the tim- ber, to the open plain. The whoops and yells of the savages now sounded through the timber—yells of baffled rage. Single-Eye and Rattlesnake asserted that the main body of the Comanches had reached the wash-out, discovered slain and scalped comrade braves, and the escape, for the second time, of their intended victims, Their trail could be followed slowly, as patches of moonlight illu- mined the same, here and there; and the wo- men and children bad left plain ‘‘sign,” by breaking bushes, and riding in a hurried man- ner, one after another. It would be some time yet, before the Coman- ches would reach the mules, and ascertain the manner and direction of their flight. They ~were now striking out toward Fort Mason, on the Rio Llano. Every eye was busy, for a long time, scan- ning the timber, hoping that Lone Star would be on the border of the same, with Lula, and join them; but they were doomed to disappoint- ment in this respect. Afar out on the plain they proceeded, until there was no longer any possibility of being seen by the Comanches; who would not, if they discovered those they sought, dare follow them, for fear of meeting a detachment of troops from Fort Mason. Upon reaching a pvint of safety, Single-Eye and the Tonkaway, after bidding all farewell, impressing upon the major the necessity of haste, pr giving explicit directions as to the course to be maintained, much to the regret of all, whirled their mules about, and galloped back to the San Saba; aiming to strike the river a mile north of the big bend—their intention being, to recover their secreted horses, and then search for Lone Star and Lula La Coste. CHAPTER XV. ON THE STAMPEDR WT was gdard mount at Fort Mason the morn- : oe ing following the, to our friends, most eventful ! night on the San Saba, when a ranchero, who lived half a mile from the post, galloped to the parade ground, within the square of barracks, and informed the commanding officer of the ap- proach of the strangely-mounted cavalcade of women and children, white and black—also Re giving information in regard to the war-party of Comanches on the San Saba, and their work of the oo night—information gained from Major La Coste, who headed the cavalcade. he fort was garrisoned by infantry, which fact. caused the general Government, or the Secretary of War, to be often cursed as well as ridiculed: but there chanced to be a detach- ment of the old gallant Second Cavalry en- eamped in the oak openings near the fort, who were on their way back to Fort Belknap. e officer in command at Fort Mason in- stantly dispatched an orderly to the cavalry camp. _ Both orderly and ranchero spurred their nn aS MNS eal agiage de bu The Fighting Trio. horses at full speed, and.in five minutes the im- portant information was communicated to the captain. ‘he bugle sounded at once, and soon the Jat- ter, at the head of forty gallant boys in blue, galloped through the post-oaks toward the open prairie that stretched afar toward the Rio San Saba. Most eager were they to meet the red foe, the information given by the ranchero baving caus- ed great rejoicing in the camp. Soon the strange and laughter-creating cav- alcade was met, and the captain halted to confer with Major La Coste. Not a smile, however, rested on the faces of the soldiers, for the anguished and haggard ap- pearance of the blacks and whites proved their great suffering, and hinted at dangers just past that banished all mirth from the beholders. The little negroes, their great eyes starting in wonder, their faces yet stamped with terror— all clutcbing for dear life at the stubby manes of the mules, presented a most laughable ap- pearance, But a few moments was the halt made, the outlines of events, thepresence of the scoutsand the Tonkaway on the San Saba, and the loca- tion of the little bend above the abrupt turn in the river, being explained by Major La Coste. Then, with a rousing cheer, the detachment drove spurs and sped on, the cavalcade, led by the siato. proceeding to Fort Mason. In a quarter of an hour more the entire party were receiving every attention from the officers of the post and their sympathetic wives, the ne- groes being assigned to an empty barrack, and furnished with everything necessary to their comfort. The anxiety and apprehensions of Major La Coste, his wife and sister, in regard to Lula, however, was not abated one iota; for, upon reflection, they feared that Lone Star and the idol of their hearts had fallea into the power of the Comanches, otherwise they would have been seen, or would have reached the fort—as the young scout, bad he regained his horse, was well mounted, In every, and in ull ways, did the officers seek to encourage hope in the hearts of the anguish-stricken family, but with little success, Upon agen safety, as is natural with us all, the loss of his wagons and effects caused the major much repining; and he paced con- tinually, back and forth, the floor of his apart- ment, bis hands clasped behind him, his proud form bent forward, and he gazing abstractedly before him—his face showing plainly the self- condemnation, regret, and misery, that he had, and still suffered. When Single-Eye and Rattlesnake parted from Major La Coste and his party, they, as has been mentioned, pointed northerly, aiming to strike the San Saba at a point above the big town. From thence they intended to head further north, if they considered it necessary. Should the Indiays discover them, while on the mules, they would be doomed; for the ani- mals were thin in flesh, and somewhat broken up by traversing the long trail from the San Antonio, the sun having been excessively hot, Fortune favored them, however; for a patch of dense clouds, sailed slowly up, from below the western horizon, and just as they, reached a Agee where danger of discovery was not only possible, but probable, obscured the silvery moon, Then it was that Single-Eye and the Tonk- away, congratulating themselves, lashed the mules with the slack of the neck-ropes, on to- ward the San Saba, luckily dashing into the shades before the clouds passed over the Queen of Night. The scouts were no sooner ‘‘in coyer,” than both sprung from the weary animals, and re- moving the ropes from their jaws, urged them out upon the plain, They were now very anxious in regard to their much prized steeds, each having owed bis life, many e time, to the speed of his animal; and they, at once, bastened up the river, to secure them at all hazards, As will be remembered, the Tonkaway had left his black steed at the place where he had discovered the Comanche war-party ; this being some distance below the location chosen by the Indians fora camp. There, much to his joy and relief, he found the horse, unmolested. Tightening the girth and adjusting a jaw- strap, the beast showing evidences of extreme delight, our red friend felt greatly relieved, and es to any emergency. The presence of tbe animal proved that the Comanches had not been down the river very far, in search of Lone ~m-- er" 13 ROBT SS ca SN a BS x Star and Lula; or, if so, they had not searched the timber thoroughly. This conclusion gave rise to another possi- bility. The young scout and the maiden might have been captured near the Comanche camp. ‘*Cuss my cats, ef things doesn’t ’pear sort 0” bilious!” said Single-Eye. ‘‘ Hit’s too still, up ther drink to suit me. Looks es though ther condemned coyotes hed kerraled ther leetle gal and Lone Star, er they’d be whoopin’ 'roun’ ‘mong ther bush arter ’em. What yer think, pard Tonk? ‘“‘Thedn’t time ter look Skip-lively bi when we-uns leyanted wi’ ther weemin, an’! s’pose I'll be ’bleeged ter skute cross ther ‘ open,’ west, an’ smell ’roun’ arter him, but hit’ll be p’ison risky biz” Daum did not appear to have heard im. “What yer gut inter yer sculp now, Tonk?” asked the old scout, somewhat surprised. ‘* Wait!” answered the chief, raising his hand in a gesture of caution. The next moment, a series of most unearthly howls filled the bottom-timber, up the river. ‘‘What in thunderation’s ther rumpus up- crick?” “Good,” was the reply of the Tonkaway. ‘*Comanche have death-dance. Heap bowl. My white brother, go for horse. Comanche nosee, All in timber.” ‘““Dang’d ef yer ain’t kerrect! Hits a good time ter go fer Skip, an’ ter stompede ther re- mainder o’ ther mules, an’ ther mustangs we kin scrouge in.” Single-Eye talk good. Come!” Without further delay both left the timber. By crossing the triangular open plain, time was saved, besides avoiding the danger of pass- ing in the near vicinity of the howling Co- manches, The Tonkaway well knew that all, except the guards of the animals would be in the death- dance; and, as no enemies were supposed to be to the west of the river, there probably would be no sentinels posted. This they soon proved. Upon passing the belt of timber, and crossing the river, they found themselves at the spot where the mule: had been discovered, but the animals were n’.{ to be seen. Single-Eye had crossed the open to the v-°sr side, and gavea peculiar signal. Instantly 16 was replied to by the joyful neighing of a horse. ‘‘Cuss my cats!” he exclaimed; “ ef thar ain’t Skip!” Through the undergrowth they now proceed- ed, when the old scout broke into another * open,” of small extent. ; Again his odd Jaugh burst on the air. ‘Double up, an’ dang me, ef Skip hain’t bin on the war-path too! Jist gaze et ther critter, Tonk.” A strange sight it was indeed. In the middie of the “ open” stood the one- eyed, raw-boned steed of Single-Eye, one foot: firmly planted on the mutilated corpse of a Go- manche brave! ““Thet cussed Curmanch’ thort he’d kerral Skip, but he gut kicked inter kingdom come, on ther cyclone whiz! I’m bettin’ ther cuss didn’t git a show ter yell.” “Heap good horse. Too bad spoil scalp,” said the chief, regretfully. “Yer allers looks out fer ha’r, doesn’t yer, Tonk? Waz-al, yer sees, Skip does ther best he knows how.” The two scouts rode slowly down the river, and approached the “ open,” where the wagons bad been burned, in a very stealthy manner. They then perceived that the part nearest the plain was filled with the mules, some horses also belonging to Major La Coste, and the mustangs of the Comanches. Nothing except a smoldering heap of ashes and iron remained of the wagons and goods. Two Indians were guarding the animals; but the scouts well knew that only the mus- tangs of the slain were in the herd. Their plans were soon formed. Rattlesnake dismounted, and made his way through the undergrowth until he eould obtain a view of the ‘ open,” in which the Comanches were performing their unearthly eeremonies over the dead. It was evident that neither Lone Star nor Lula were captives. This was welcome news to Single-ye. : Much relieved, the scouts proceeded to ac- tion. Gaining favorable positions, they spurred at eran: Fe pay each upon a sentinel, clutching the vi s by the hair, and slashing their knives
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14 —- 4 Te a a en ERs by ae ae Sear Ty a a “f. The Fighting Trio. Ive ae across the Comanches’ throats; thus preventing the death- yell. Tearing off the scalps, both urged their horses toward the herd, shaking their serapes of many colors in the air. With snorts of fright, the mules and mustangs dashed toward the plain, the scouts close in their rear, and turning the animals toward Fort Mason. The gray streaks of morning had shot up in the east, when Single-Eye discovered his horse, Skip-lively; and, as the herds dashed out on the plain, the sun was just peeping above the horizon. Terrific whoops and yells of baffled raze sounded in their rear; but on galloped the dar- ing pair, and on thundered the herd, in a wild stampede, CHAPTER XVI, THE TUG OF WAR, WueEn Lone Star made his escape with Lula La Coste, he was as happy, perbaps, as any man on earth ever was. Having been for some years a roamer of the plains, he had not mingled with any of the fair sex, except the uneducated matrons and maidens of the extreme frontier, who were far from being refined, in manners, habits and ap- pearance, Consequently, the extraordinary beauty of the young girl infatuated him at first sight. The die was cast, and each became aware thai the love and presence of the other would be necessary to future happiness; each, also, being confident that the other was governed by the same feelings. But Lone Star and Lula were not yet “ out of the woods,” either in reality, or agreeably to the old adage; and the young scout realized that the danger of capture had for him now, ten thousand times the horror it had ever before possessed. He knew that it would be next to impossible for him to escape without his horse. Once upon that well-tried beast, with Lula in his arms, he feared nothing. No animal in the Comanche war-party could even keep within view on the plain, after a fair start. ‘Yhen he had galloped to the wagons, and sprung from his horse, after shooting down a number of his pursuers, the animal had darted toward the plain, entering the timber toward the north. If the horse kept in the timber it would not now be far from the point for which Lone Star was now aiming; for he knew a winding gully about a quarter of a mile from them, which led from the plain, through the timber, to the river. Hastening on, he soon reached the wash-out, and ran up the same some distance without halt- ing. Then he placed the maiden upon her feet, she still trembling and unable to speak. ** Miss Lula, Iam almost confident that you ‘will see no more of the fiendish Comanches.” The young girl murmured something in her flute-like voice, which seemed in consonance with her beauty of face and form. **It seems to me,” said the young man, “ that Sony far more blessed than ever man was be- ore. “T love you, worship you, Lula La Coste, ‘This world would be a chaotic blank to me were I deprived of the happiness of seeing, meeting and loving you!” ‘Lone Star,” said the girl, at length, ‘I hope never again to experience the agony I endured when I saw you struggling for life with the hideous brave who guarded me. Had you lain dead before me then, I should have welcomed death for myself as a blessed relief.” ‘** Heaven bless you, Lula! The world will'in- deed be bright and beautiful now, since I know of your presence on it, and that your love is mine. “Here let us vow eternal constancy! We bave, in a most mysterious manner, been brought together amid danger and death. Let nothing now come between us, Let not your love die or wane, or this world will be a hell to me, “You saved my life, and it is yours,” was the low-spoken reply. - 7 life,” rejoined the youth, ** shall be spent in endeavoring to promote your happiness, I almost fear that my own is now too great to Jast—that something will occur to plunge me inte poe. ** But I must not think of this, ‘I must find my horse, for we are not yet a Every moment is full of danger and ea) ‘Tt is tearing my very heart-strings to leave you; but it must be, and at once. “Trust in me. I will secrete you where should those red demons come, they will no find you.” Poor Lula shuddered from head to foot as Lone Star led her up the wash-out and spoke thus; but she offered no words of objection, knowing that he would not leave her if it were not necessary to insure their safety. Soon the maiden was ensconced in a branch gully, quite small and deep as well as dark, and the young scout started off with quick and care- less strides, proving bis preoccupation of mind, He carried his revolver at full cock, and fortu- nate wasit that he was not forced to venture near to the Comanche war-party. Just as Lone Scar heard the yells that an- nounced the rescue of the captive, he was filled with relief and thankfulness, for before him stood his faithful horse. Mounting quickly, he urged the animal down the wash-out, and in a few minutes Lula, in the arms of her preserver, was flying like an arrow shot from a bow north- ward, along the borders of the timber of the Rio San Saba toward the Rio Colorado, This ‘course was maintained for some three miles; then, allowing the horse to slacken its speed, Lone Star guided the animal out on the open plain, and proceeded south-east, toward ort Mason, Soon the horse dropped into a walk, and poor Lula sunk into a deep slumber, her weary heart and brain at rest, for the time being. And slowly, out of consideration for the sleep- ing maiden, Lone Star proceeded, until long after the sun arose, and he could see, afar off, the post-oaks that surrounded Fort Mason. He hoped that Major La Coste and bis partx- had long before reached the post; as be had be- lieved it to be the intention of Single-Eye and the Tonkaway to transport them thither. Hs had not dared risk the life of Lula by keeping on up the river, in an endeavor to as- certain the state of affairs; but he had little doubt as to the safety of the party. The frequent reports of rifles and revolvers, just previous to and after the explosion, had proved that the old scout, his red pard, and the major were on the alert; and the absence of any signal yells, usual on capturing ap enemy, or slaying one, caused Lone Star to think that all was well, And on he went, slowly, as described, Lula sleeping in his arms, until at length his eagle eye detected a break on the plain to the south. Soon he perceived that, not only was there a large herd of mules and horses being driven to- ward Fort Mason by two men, but that the drivers were pursued by a score of Indians, At once the young scout decided that Single- Eye and the Tonkaway were the stampeders, and that the animals were the mules belonging . the train, and the mustangs of the slain In- ians. There appeared to be quite a distance between the pursued and the pursuers, and but little time bad passed, when the young scout suddenly be- came aware that, if the Indians should glve up the chase, they could cut him off from Fort Mason, and force him, either back to the San Saba, or north to the Colorado. His heart Sprang to his throat, and he drove spurs deep, his borse bounding at headlong speed. This awoke Lula, who gazed into the anxious face of the young man, before he was aware that she had been aroused. Guided by his gaze, she glanced over the prairie. Then she sprung upward, elasping her arms about Lone Star's neck, and crying out ‘Oh, can it be that we are lost after all; that we must die at the hands of those painted say- ages?” Lone Star replied, quickly and reassuringly: “Do not fear, Lula! I can outrun them; but I am trying to reach Fort Mason, where I am pretty confident your father and mother now are. Ican bead for the Colorado, if the Com- anches should succeed in cutting us off. “Don’t you see those two men in the rear of that fast-galloping herd of horses and mules?” ‘*“Yes—oh, yes!” ‘Well, those are your father’s mules. They have been stampeded from the Comanche camp by Single-Eye and Rattlesnake, the Tonk- away. “The Indians have given up chasing them, I see. They nave discovered us, and mean to cap- ture us if they can.” “But they cannot, can they?” cried out rile joyously, pointing ahead of them with ber oger. ‘Look! There are the ‘boys in blue.’ Ses the sabers how they glitter! ® are saved!” The young girl burst into thankful tears, thus relieving her overtaxed brain. “‘I declare!” returned the young man, in- tense relief and joy in his voice and glance of eye; “‘ you are a beiter scout than I am, Lula! ‘‘ The Comanches, however, were claiming my full attention, and the cavalry bave but just darted out of the oaks, ‘‘Hurrah for the gallant old Second Cav- alry! That’s my old friend, Captain Long—God bless him! ‘* But I am glad, Lula, that your tears prevent you trom seeing those red fiends, Never before have they appeared so hellish,” “I do not wish ever to see an Indian again, unless it be that faithful brave who saved my life,” said Lula, with a shudder. To describe the scene on the prairie, that bright sunny morning, would be impossible. We may merely attempt to outline it, Away to the southeast of the position of Lone Star and. Lula La Coste, stampeded the herd of animals; controlled as much as possible in the direction of Fort Mason, by the two scouts. To the south, having just jerked their foam- flecked mustangs to a halt, were a score of fierce, revenge-maddened, paint-daubed Coman- chos, in all their parapbernalia of savage war; hideous as fiends from Gehenna, and frantic with baffled rage. For they had just discovered the “long-knives” (cavalry), and they knew that, not only had they lost all chance of rogaining the herd, and capturing the golden- haired maiden and the young scout, but that, beyond doubt, they were doomed to death! On, thundering over the plain at full speed toward the Comanches from the east, dash he “‘boys in blue;” their sabers clattering, aud revolvers in hand—Captain Long at their head. Tho war-party whirled, and lashed their mus- tangs on the back trail; gazing behind them with bated breath. On bounded Lone Star, the left arm of Lula La Coste around his neck, his own encircling hor waist; her angelic face being turned toward the cavalry, and her golden hair flying in the wind of their speed. On, until the troops were met, and then a simultaneous rousing cheer 1ung from every throat, as Captain Long waved his sword, in recognition of the young scout; wonder being visible in the eyes of all, as the beautiful maiden met their view, Circling his sombrero Pesetene, Lone Star shot past the fast speeding cavalry; welcome words to both Lula and himself at shouted by the captain. “‘ Major La Coste, his wife, and sister, are at the post. Hasten on with their lost darling!” Lone Star gazed into Lula’s eyes. She was weeping convulsively, But they were tears of thankful joy. Over the meeting of the ‘‘ boys in blue” and the red torturers of tbe plains we draw a vail. There was too much of horror in the fight, although it was between equal numbers, CHAPTER XVII. SADDER AND WISER, Kinp reader, we have little more to detail in connection with those whom we bave followed through the startling occurrences of a brief space of time. Major La Coste paced the apartment assigned hit, while his wife and Aunt. Lavine, although nearly prostrated by the horrors of the night, and their tiresome ride accompanied by want of Sleep, sat weeping, with their arms about each other, upon a lounge in the adjoining room. The slaves, with the exception of the two wo- men who had been made widows in so tragica] a manner, all slept profoundly. The latter two were alternately weeping and praying. The major, his wife, and sister, notwithstand- ing the assertions of the Tonkaway and Single- Eye in regard to the rescue of Lula by Lone Star, had become hopelessly despairing as time passed and their darling did not arrive. The worst was to be apprehended, Thus the time passed most slowly and miser- ably with them; the cfficers of the post, and their wives considerately leaving them to their meditations and grief; as they coald with no reasonable ground offer consolation, But they were destined to have their grief suddenly dispelled; for an orderly entered the apartment, as the forenoon began to wane and with a salute, informed the major that the
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ant of the post wished to see him and ladies at once, Greatly pugzled and somewhat ind ignant at B: man took an arm of his wife and sister and fol- ie lowed the orderly. The latter left the parade- ground and passing through the gate stood some paces from it, giving a wave of his hand to direct the party onward. A group of officers and their wives, all with oyous faces, welcomed the major and the two iat laiien who, as far as it was possible, banished their grief in politeness and consideration for Whe the fonlings of their kind hosts. ‘“We wish to give youa glad surprise, my , ty friends,” said the major, commanding the +. Eighth Infantry. ‘“‘I have just received news or aa that parties are approaching who passed the + last eventful night with you. Bi “*T stationed a mounted man of my troop on aris the edge of the oaks, and he has brought the vay intelligence I speak of. Look toward the id west!” There was no_ need to bid them look, fer the loud rumbling of many hoofs, coming at terrific speed, drew every eye. Sh A large herd of mules and mustangs, covered with foam, and in a state of 1rantic fright, , came dashing through the oak openings, and in by the direction of the barracks, r A score of mounted rancheros were on hand, 5 . and headed the herd into a large corral, Major La Coste recognized his mules. Close after galloped Single-Eye and the Tonk- qi away chief. “She is lost!” exclaimed Major La Coste, . ‘My darling, my Lula, is lost forever! The red fiends have tortured her!” Mrs. La Coste uttered a shriek and would have fallen but for Miss Lavinia, ‘*Not so fast, major! Not so fast!” said the commandant, quickly. ‘I ought to have told you, I suppose, in the first place, ‘*[ did not know you were so hopeless in re- gard to your daughter, Look west again! ‘‘That is what I call a glorious sight. God bless the brave and daring young scout, Lone Star! A glorious sight it was! Down toward the group at headlong gallop, dashed Lone Star, with Lula in his arms, her golden hair flying wild and her face beaming with joy and thankfulness, The noble horsa, although covered with foam, as if conscious of his precious burden, seemed to throw off every sign of fatigue, and tossed its head up and down, its mane and tail flying free. Straight up to the father and mother of the maiden dashed the young scout, his horse com- ing suddenly to a halt before them. ith a glad cry, Lula sprung into the out- stretched arms of her father, while her mother and aunt staggered forward, and wound their arms about her also, Thus they remained, with emotions too deep for utterance, until Lula, ever considerate and now more than ever so, released herself, say- ing: father, mother, you would never have seen ; me again—I should ‘have been cruelly tortured hie ere this—bad not this brave young scout twice ____ risked his life to save me!” a All in the fort now pressed forward to offer their congratulations, and Major La Coste, catching the hand of Lone Star, wrung it in speechless emotion and gratitude. Single-Eye, who now came up with Rattle- snake, observing some affectionate demonstra- tion toward the young scout on the part of Mrs, La Coste and Aunt Lavine, halted, saying: “Cuss my cats, pard Tonk, ef I’m a-goin’ any nigher! Hit’s dangerous jist "bout now. _“Ther weemin hev run plum lunyfied— dang my ole gizzard ef they hain’t! They're gittin’ es hefty on the hug esa grizzly b’ar.” We must not imagine that the fair Lula so _ far forgot herself, during these somewhat bois- terous greetings, as not to perceive in the near distance the old scout and the chief, to whom she owed so much, : She rushed toward him, and had kissed the _ former before he had any suspicions as to her _ intentions. . It was too much for Single-Eye. _ “ Cuss my cats!” -- Hecould find no other language, in bis ter- _yible embarrassment, to express outraged feelings. . © Rattlesnake stood proudly, his black eyes fixed upon the face of the maiden as she thank- ed the old scout fer the noble service he had de ein saving her parents, her aut, and the _ slaves from: death. it the interruption of bis thoughts, the od gentle-. ¢ Qt a be. SS" Nigar Br 2 fo Soe a ney Bhi. 2 Aas rae ghting Trio. Who shall say what were the thoughts of the bronge prince of the prairies? Ry he think that Sun-Hair had forgotten im If so, he was quickly undeceived, for the beautiful girl sprung forward and embraced him also, The stoical features, upon which had been so long frozen a murderous expression, now soft- ened, A glitter of joy, never before seen in his eagle eye, surprised his white pard, as he placed the hand of Lula upon his breast over his heart, saying: “Rattlesnake is proud that Sun-Hair is his friend. His heart swells big in his breast. He forgets the war-cry of his tribe when he looks in her eyes. Itis good. “The smile of the Good Spirit follows her trail, and shines in her hair. ‘“* Look!”—jerking a mass of reeking scalps from his belt—‘ta Tonkaway chief has not a forked tongue. Rattlesnake swore that the Comanches should sound death-yell.” Circling the scalps over his crushed eagle- feathers, that drooped, and mingled with his long hair, the chief gave utterance to the war- cry of his tribe, in exultant intonation. A shudder convulsed the frame of Lula; but, recalling the fact that she owed her life to the Tonkaway, she or jevies her disgust and aver- sion at the sight of the scalps. Taking a hand of each of the scouts, she led them to her father and mother, Further description of this joyous reunion, we will not attempt to recount. 3 A banquet was gotten up, in bonor of the occasion, which was greatly enjoyed by all. Our friends remained at the fort for some days; and, in the mean time, an express was re- ceived, to the effect that the war-party of Coyote had been “ cleaned out” by the boys of tae Second Cavalry. Major La Coste, after his sad experiences, needed no further persuasions to settle on the Rio Llano, near the fort; in fact, he located a ranch adjoining that of Lone Star, whose real name was Richard Reynolds, Lone Star—for so we must still call him—was a wealthy young ranchero, who employed a superintendent, while he roamed the prairies, from a love of adventure, But this longing for a roving life was dis- sipated by the fair Lula; and the major, and his wife, such was their regard and respect for Lone Star when they came te know him well, that when he pleaded for the hand of their only daughter in marriage, it was not refused, but freely given him. Then it was, that Major La Coste confessed that his principal reason for removing to the frontier, was the fear that one of the many dis- sipated sons of his neighbors would win the love of his innocent child. He little dreamed, that she was destined to meet her fate, in a border scout, and that before he himself bad located a ranch, Six months from the eve of terrors, with which our story opens, Lula La Coste was the bride of Richard Reynolds. Rattlesnake was, with Single Eye, present on the occasion; and the officers of Fort Mason, with their wives, contributed to make it pass off as pleasantly as most such happy events do, under such circumstances. Lone Scar and bis beautiful wife were univer- sally known in West Texas; their hospitable home being open to all, and especially to their firm friends, Single-Eye and the Tonkaway. Tn the course of time, little Lulasand Richards gathered prairie flowers about the ranch or played beneath the moss-draped bottom-timber; and the happy parents still live, loved and re- spected, their boys being expert lassoists, reckless riders and, as Single-Eye expresses it, * right thar,” when it comes to glancing through the sights of a rifle, or “ jerking a six,” in an off-hand shot. Their exploits and adventures on the plains, may be worthy, perhaps, of being related at some future time; as they often accompanied, when quite young, the old scout, and Rattle- snake, the Tonkaway. THE END. The Best Weekly of Popular, Entertain< ing and Useful Literature Pub- lished in America! Its Unrivaled Corps of Contributors, almost all of whom write erclusinety for its publishers—embraces the following authors of world wide repute— Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, Albert W. Aiken, Capt. Fred. Whittaker, Capt. Mark Wilton, Joseph E. Badger, Jr.. Edward L. Wheeier, Charles Morris, Ol! 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Deadwood Dick Novela, 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Double Daggers} or, Deadwood Dick’s Defiance, 28 Buffalo Ben; or, Deadwood Dick in Disguise. 85 Wilda Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval. 42 Phantom Miner; or, Deadwood Dick's Bonanza, 49 Omaha OL; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger. 565i Deadwoud Dick's Eagles}; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck} or, Calamity Jane, the Heroine. @7 Corduroy Charlie 3 or, Deadwood Dick’s Last Act, 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville. 104 Deadwood Dick's Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick a« Detective. 129 oer Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gorgon’s Gulch, 188 Blonde Bill; or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base. 149 A Game of (sold or, Deadwood Dick's Big Strike. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’« Dream; or, The Rivels of the Road. 201 The Black Hilla Jezebel; or, Deadwood Dick’s Ward. 205 Deadwood Dick's Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Last Ad- | venture, 217 Captain Crack-Shot, the Girl Brigand. 221 Sugar-Coated Sam; or, The Black Gown. 282 Gold-Dust Dick, A Romance of Rough: and Toughs, 268 Deadwood PDick’s Divide; or, The Spir.t of Swamp Lake. 268 Deadwood Dick’s« Death Trall. B09 Deadwood Dick’s Big Deal; or, The Gold Brick of | Oregon, 821 Deadwood Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats. 847 Deadwood Dick’s Ducats; or, Rainy Days in the Dig- gings. 851 Deadwood Dick Sentenceds or, The Terrible Vendetta. B62 Peadweed Dick’s Claim; or, The Fairy Face of Faro ‘Jats. 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 teen ai pe Dick’s Diamonds; or, The Mystery of Joan orter. 421 Deadwood Dick in New Yorks or, A “ Cute Care,” 480 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr. 448 Nickel-Plate Neds or, Dendwood Dick Jr's Defiance. 458 Sunflower Sam, of Shasta; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Full Hand, 459 Flush Fan, the Ferret; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Big Ronnd- Up. 465 Philo Fly, of Phenix; or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Racket at Claim 10. 471 Bozeman Bill; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Corral. 476 Humboldt Marry, the Hurricane; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Dog Detective, .481 Moll Mystery; or, Deadwood Dick Jr. in Deadwood. 491 Prince Pistol, the King of the West; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Compact. 496 Monte Cristo, Jr.t or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Inheritance, 500 Deadwood Dick’s Diggings 3 or, Dr. Death-Grip’a Swoop. 508 Deadwood Dick’s Deliverance. 5615 Deadwood Dick's Protegee. 522 Deadwood Dick’s Three. 529 Deadweod Dick’s Danger Ducks, 5S4 Deadwood Dick’s Death Hunt. 589 Deadwood Dick Jr., In Texas. 544 Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidoeq. Other Novela by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon, 82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 89 Death-Fuce, Detective; or, Life in New York. 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 1 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team, 9 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The Boy Detective, 80 Rosebud I oP or, Nugget Ned, the Knight, 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner 3; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand, 88 Phetograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance, 92 Canada Chet 3 or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp, 96 Watech*E ye; or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City, 18 Jack Hoyle _the Young Speculator. 17 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 21 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. 25 Bonanza Bill, Miner. 88 Boss Bob the King of Bootblacks, 41 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. 4S Deptate erret, the New York Detective; or, Boss Bob’s oas Job. 1 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. 4 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, The Sierras Scamps, ¢ ee eeleeten tend Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo, 9 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective. 8 Fritz tothe Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter, 26 Snoozer, the Boy Sharp; or, The Arab Detective, 86 Apollo BAI, the Trail Tornado. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator. 244 Sicrra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret. 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 258 Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Ange! of Big Vista. 258 Sierra Sam's Seven} or, The Stolen Bride, 278 Jumbo Joe, the boy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs, 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. 281 Denver Doll's Victory. 255 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 291 Turk, the Boy Ferret. 296 Denver Doll’« Drift; or, The Road Queen, 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the Jirl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 825 Kelley, Wickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia, 880 Little Qu'ck-Shot 3 or, The Dead Face of Daggersville. 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. 889 Kangaroo Kit’s Racket. 648 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood. 858 First-Class Fred, the Gent from Gopher. 868 Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Lottery of Life. 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize. 878 Nabob Neds or, The Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 885 Yreka Jim's Joker}; or, The Rivals of Red Nose. 889 Bieycle Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lode, 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam, 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 Wigh Hat Harry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Slabsides, the Beggar-Boy Detective, 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Dotectives. 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 486 Sealskin Sam, the Sparkler. VVC | 245 Merle BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, ? The Flytng Vankee; or, The Ocean Outcast. Z Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccaneer; or, The Fugitive Yacht, 4 Diamond Dirk or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone, 2 The Shadow Ship's or, The Rival Lieutenants, 5 The Boy Pnellat; or, The Cruise of the Sea- Wolf. 2 Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Smuggier. 1 The Sea-Devil; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 16 The Hussar Captuin; or, The Hermit of Hell Gate, 197 Little Grit; or, Bessie, the Stock-Tender’s Daughter. 204 Gold Plume; or, The Kid-Glove Sport. 16 Bison BIL, the Prince of the Reins, 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer, 229 Crimson Kate or, The Cowboy’s Triumph, 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. the Middy 3 or, The Freelance Heir. 250 The Midshipman Mutineer ; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer. 264 ane Floating Feather; or, Merle Monte’s Treasure sland. 260 The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned. R76 hg Monte’s Cruise; or, The Chase of “The Gold Ship.”’ 280 Merle Monte’a Fate; or, Pearl, the Pirate’s Bride. 284 The Sea Marauder; or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. 287 Lilly Blue-Eyes, the Boy Rover of the Rio Grande. 804 The Dead Shot Dandy ; or, Benito, the Boy Bugler, $08 Keno Kit; or, Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. 814 ane Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Long Trail. 877 Bonodel, the Boy Rover}; or, The Flagless Schooner. 888 The Indlan Pilots or, The Search for Pirate Island, 887 Warpath WILL, the Boy Phantom. 898 Seawall, the Boy Lieutenant, 402 Laodor, the Young Conspirator 5 or, The Fatal League. 407 The Boy Insurgents; or, The Cuban Vendetta. 412 The Wild Yachtamany or, The War-Clouu’s Cruise. 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 A Cabin Boy’s Luck; or, The Corsair. 487 The Seca Raider. 441 The Ocean Firefly 3 or, A Middy’s Vengeance. 446 Haphazard Harry 3 or, The Scapegrace of the Sea. 4650 Wizard Will; or, The Boy Ferret of New York. 454 Wizard WIIl’« Street Scouta, 462 The Born Guide; or, The Sailor Boy Wanderer, 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Conster. 474 Flora; or, Wizard Will's Vagabond Pard. 488 Ferrets Afloat; or, Wizard Will's Last Case. 487 Nevada Ned, the Revolver Kanger. 495 Arizona Joe the Boy Pard of Texas Jack, 497 Buck Taylor, King ot the Cowboys. 508 The Royal Middy ; or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. 507 The Hunted Midshipman. 5611 The Outlawed Middy. 520 Buckskin BIll, the Comanche Shadow. 525 Brothers in Buckskin, 530 The Buckskin Bowers. 585 The Buc skin Rovers. 5640 Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder ot the Rio, 545 Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. BY CHARLES MORRIS, 118 Will Somers, the Boy Detective. 122 Phil Mardy, the Boss Boy, 126 Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. 180 Detective Dick; or, The Hero in Rags. 142 Handsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, 147 Will Wildiire, the Thoroughbred. 152 Black Keas, Will Wildfire's Racer, 157 Mike Merry, the Harbor Police Boy. 162 Will Wildfire in the Wooda, 165 Billy Baggage. the Railroad Boy, 170 A Trump Card; or, Will Wildtre Wins and Loses, 174 Bob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York. 179 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner, 188 The Midden Hand; or, Will Wildfire’s Revenge. 187 Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy; or, The Smugglers, 189 Rob Rockett; or, Driven to the Wall. 196 Shadowed 3; or, Bob Rockett’s Fight for Life, 206 Dark Paul, the Tiger King. 212 Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective, 220 Tom Tanner}; or, The Black Sheep of the Flock, : 25 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky, 235 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy. 242 The Two “ Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang. 252 Dick Dashaway ¢ or, A Dakota Boy in Chicago, 262 The Young Sharps; or, Rollicking Mike’s Hot Trail. 274 Jolly Jim, the Detective Apprentice. 289 Jolly Jim’s Job; or, The Young Detective. 298 The Water-HMound; or, The Young Thoroughbred. B05 Dashaway, of Dakotas or, A Western Lad in the Quaker sity. 824 Ralph Ready, the Hote! Boy Detective. 841 Tony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective. 858 The Reporter-Detective; or, Fred Flyer’s Blizzard, 867 Wide-Awake Joe}; or, A Boy of the Times, 879 Larry, the Leveler; or, The Bloods of the Boulevard, 408 Firelly Jack, the River-Rat Detective. 428 The Lost Finger; or, The Entrapped Cashier, 428 Fred Flyer, the Reporter Detective. 482 Invincible Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret. 456 Billy Brick, the Jolly Vagabond. | 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive, 479 Detective Dodge; or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty, 488 Wild Dick Racket. 501 Boots, the Boy Fireman ; or, Too Sharp for the Sharper. BY JOSEPH FE. BADGER, JR. 2 Vellowstone Jack; or, The Trapper. 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaw’s Retreat, 65 Wurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard. 119 Mustang Sam ; or, The King of the Plains. 186 Night-Hawk Kit; or, The Daughter of the Ranch, 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. ‘ 151 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Resene. 160 The Black Giant; or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy. 168 Deadly Dash; or, Fighting Fire with Fire. 184 The Boy Tratlera; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path. 208 The Boy Pards; or, Dainty Lance Unmasks, 211 Crooked Cale, the Caliban of Celestial City. 810 The Barranca Wolf; or, The Beautiful Decoy. 819 The Black Rider; or, The Horse-Thieves’ League, 885 Old Double Fist; or, The Strange Guide. 855 The King of the Woods: or. Daniel Boone’s Last Trail, 449 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective. BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon, Wm. F. Cody), 8 Kaneas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scont. 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust, BY OLL COOMES. & Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. 18 The Dumb Spy. 27 Antelope Abe, the Boy Guile. 81 Keen-Knuilfe, the Prince of the Prairies. 41 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. 5S The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. 71 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. 74 NWawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ringer, 8B Rollo, the Boy Ranger. 184 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman. 148 Sear-Face Saul, the Silent Hunter, 146 Silver Star, the Boy Knight. 158 Eagle Kit, the Boy Demon. 168 Little Texas, the Young Mustanger. 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit 1 rapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain. 202 Prospect Pete; or, The Young Outlaw Hunters, 208 The Boy Hercules: or, The Prairie Tramps, 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dicks or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Disguised Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger. 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 272 Minkskin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. 290 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spy. £00 The Sky Demon; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger, 884 Whip-King Joe, the Boy Ranchero. 409 Hercules; or, Dick, the Boy Ranger. 417 Webfoot Mose, the Tramp Detective. 422 Baby Sam, the Boy Giunt of the Yellowstone. 444 Little Buckskin, tne Young Prairie Centaur, 457 Wingedtfoot Fred; or, Old Polar Saul, 468 Tamarac ‘Tom, the Big Trapper Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic, 482 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Trojan. BY T. C. MARBAUGH. 28 Nick o° the Nights; or, The Boy Spy of '76: 87 The Hidden Lodge}; or The Littl Hunter. 47 Nightingale Nat; or, Toe Forest Captains. 64 Dandy Jacks or, The Ontlaws of the Oregon Train 82 Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack ; or, The Boy Trapper. 106 Old Froaty, the Guide; or, The White Queen, 128 Klowa Charley the White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch, Jr.: or, The Boy Vigiante. 155 Gok Trig, er, the Sport; or, The Girl Avenger. 169 Tornado Toms or, Injun Jack From Red Core. 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy. 198 Arkansaw ¢ or, The Quen of Fate’s Revenge. 207 Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain Bullet; or, Little Topknot’s Crusade, 231 Plucky Phils or, Rosa, the Re! Jezebel, 241 Bill Bravo; or, The Roughs of the Rockies, 255 Captain Apolle, the King-Pin of Bowie. 267 The Buckskin Detective. 27H Old Winchs or, The Buckskin Desperadoes, 294 Dynamite Dans or, The Bowie Blade of Cochetopa. 802 The Mountain Detective; or, The Trigger Bar Bullys 816 Old Eclipse, Tromp Card of Arizona, 826 The Ten Pardsys or. The Terror of Take-Notice, 886 Big Benson; or, The Queen of the Largo. 845 Pitilesas Matt; or, Red Thunderholt’s Secret, B56 Cool Sam and Pard ¢ or The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlasas or, | he B ccaneer’s Girl Foe, 896 Rough Rob: or, The ! win Champions of Blue Blazes, All The Silken Lasso; or, The Rose of Ranch Robin. 418 Felix Fox, the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump, the Border Rattler. 486 Phil Flash, the New York Fox. 445 The City Vampires; or, Red Rolfe’s Pigeon. 461 One Against Fifty; or, ‘The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox's Hant. AT? The Excelator Sports: or, The Washington Spotter, A99 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night Ferret. 612 Dodger Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective, 521 Dodger Dick’« Best Dodge. B28 Fox and Falcon, the Bowery Shadows. BBS Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret. 548 Dodger Dick’s Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives, LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 546 Captain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock. By Lieut. A, K. Sims, h47 Sandy Andy; or, A Good Man Down, By P. S. Warne. 5648 Mart, the Night Express Detective. By J.C. Cowdrick. 549 Deadwood Dick on His Mettle. By E. l. Wheeler. 550 Latitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. By Col. Prentise Ingraham. bb1 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow. | By Jo Pierce. BH? Ariel, the Athlete. By David Druid, bb8 Dodeer Dick’s Desperate Case. By T. C. Harbaugh. BHA Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Gotham, By E. L, Wheeler, bbS The Creole Corsair. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, BSS Lariat Lil; or. The Cast for a Life, By Philip S. Warne. bb? Broadway Billy’s Peath Racket. Ry J.C. Cowdriek, B58 The Sure-Shot Pards, By Arthur C, Grisson. 559 Harlem Jack, the Office Boy Detective. By Jo Plerce. 660 Pawnee BU, the Prairie Shadower. By Col. P. Ingraham, B61 Deadwood Dick In Boston. By Edward L. Wheeler. 562 Blundering Baatl, the Hermit Boy Trapper. By Ol! Coomes, 568 Dodgér Dick, the Boy Vidocq. By T. C. Har’ augh, Ready May 8. 564 Powder Phil, the Boy Miner. By John W. Osbon. Ready May 15. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, Ready May 22. 566 The Secret Service Boy Detective. By Charles Morris, Ready May 29. 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadeiphia. By Edward L, Wheeler, Ready June 5. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, five conte per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents each, BEADLE ANP ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Yorke.