Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 383) (1884 11 25)
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1 y/ ‘ yy "UJ Ad lit tt le! a ln lS 1”. Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyright, 1884, by BEADLE A - 2 an wes * Ss: in 2S Bs ND ADAMS. November 25, 1884. . pa Hs Ny MW CHAPTER I. THE PIRATE LOVER, —~ A SMALL boat was creeping along the shores of the harbor of San Augustine, the single oc- cupant rowing lazily, as though in no hurry, and his face as placid as a May morn, although he was a hunted man, and even then a danger lay before bim that might cost him his life, The man was dressed in the garb of a srilor, his face was weather-beaten and bis locks, hanging upon his broad collar, were white as snow. His boat was a light one, and yet it seemed 'o move along as though age bad not deprived the man of bis muscular power. Ahead, a heavily-wooded point ju'ted out into the water, and toward this the oarsman was pulling at his easy stroke. . ge : Arriving there he sent bis boat belf its length AVNER Sts. (4 ~ out of the water, by one vigorous stroke of the : : ’ oars, and then springing out, stepped into the shadow cf the forest and stood as though in thought. After a moment he passed on to the edge of the timber and glanced out upon the scene spread THE INDIAN PIL@T, before him.
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Pilot. 6 indian It was a pleasing one, for in a curve of the shore stood a pretty house, half-hidden in foli- age and surrounded by a flower-garden, t wasa cosey little vot, evidently the home of some one in the humbler walks of life. Only a couple of hundred yards from the lace, the man was able to discera a female orm seated in the little arbor that stood upon the shore near the beach, “Clotilde is waiting for me, and I must try and reach her side without attracting the at- tention of her mother,” said the man who was watching the scene from his covert. * Move and you are a dead man!” The words broke crisply upon the ears of the one addressed, and with a start, he turned quickly to bebold a form near him, half-con- cealed by the trunk of a large tree, and with a rifle leveled at bis heart. . There was no mistaking the words of the man, and his appearance.carried them out, His face was a strong one, his form compact, and he wore the dress of a Government officer. But, after bis first start of surprise the old man seemed unmoved, even under the muzzle of the pistol leveled at him, but said calmly: ‘Constable Clair, why do you seek my life?” ** Because, Benedict, 1 know you, even under your painted face, to make you appear old, and your gray locks. ‘You are a pirate.” ; ‘Granted, and your son-in-law,” was the cool _ response. * Were you my own son I would do my duty and arrest you,” and the officer spoke with deep ee “You would see me hanged, ay, put the noose about my neck with your own hands, whe vou know that I love your daughter, and that cue 3 my wife.” “You stole her love under the guise of an honest man, and then you kidnapped ber from my home, nearly breaking the heart of her poor mother. “T sought your hiding-place and found her, and she returned with me, when [ told her that her mother’s life would rest upon her head. ‘*You have followed her here, for I received _ your note to ber, by accident, and read it, and - r _ look covered then read her answer. “She now awaits you yonder, little dream- ing that'l have awaited you here, and that I shall carry you to prison, and never rest until T hang you.” ‘*Old man, I intended to lead an honest life, after Clotilde became my wife, and I left our little home to secure honorable work; but I re- turned to find that you had stolen my bride from me,,and—” “She was my child.” : ** And my. wife; let her be the judge between us, and I will submit to her decision.” ‘* Never! you are an outlaw, a price is set upon your head, and—” ** And you wish to earn the blood-money—but never!” With the spring of a panther upon its prey, the man leaped forward ana grasped the officer. The finger of the latter. touched the trigger, but the powder flashed in the pan, and the weapon was struck up, while, with a strength that was marvelous, the assailant eee is enemy and drove deep into his heart the blade of a long knife. There was a stifled cry, a gasping for breath, an effort to speak, and the officer fell to the ground, ‘*- You brought it upon yourself, constable, for it was your life at my hands, or mine at the end of a noose at yours,” he said, gazing calmly down upon the dying man, A writhing as though in anguish, a few long- drawn breaths, and the constable was dead. Wiping his knife upon the clothing of the dead man, the one who had slain him walked away from the spot, following the curving shore toward the little arbor before spoken of. In its shelter sat a young girl, clad in pure white, and wearing a bunch of roses in her hair. She was pretty, very pretty, innocent-look- ne age yet her fine chin and flashing eyes de noted character beyond her years, Now her face was pale and flushed by turns, as though she was excited from some cause. Looking toward the distant town she seemed to be watching for some one to come from that direction, and started, when she heard a foot- fall bebind her, Biarting back, as her eyes fell upon the form of the sailor, and his white hairs, a disappointed her face, while she cried: ‘Oh, sir, do you bring me a message from—” She paused, evidently embarrassed, and the man said: ar hey “Clotilde, I bring myself.” ‘Oh, Boyd!” and the young girl threw her- self into hisarms. ‘‘ Who would know you in re white rig and painted face, for it is paint- e ‘Tt is, Clotilde; but you know I cannot go without a disguise, as there isa reward out for your pirate lover.” ‘* Aud husband, Boyd; but oh! that you were not guilty.” ‘Old Nick is not as black as he is painted, my pretty wife; but I have come for my little bird that was stolen from her cage.” ‘* My father told me my mother would die, and her death be upon my head if I did not return, so I came, Boyd; but mother treats me most unkindly, now | am here, and so does father, and several times they»have said they wished they could catch you, so as to hang you and get the reward offered for you dead or alive, and I do wish you would take me far from here where they wouid never find me.” **T will, Clotilde, and this very ay oh ‘* You must be very careful, for father is not in town, as I thought he would be, when 1 wrote you what hour to come, for Isaw him go to- ward Magnolia Point an hour ago, and carry his rifle.” ‘‘He has doubtless gone squirrel-hunting, Clotilde, and will not return very soon, so I can bavea long talk with you about my plans for the future, and in which J need your help.” ** You shall gray have all the aid which I can give you, Boyd, so let me know just what you have determined upon, and I will do what you wish; but I sincerely hope you are not going back to the wild life you once led, and which branded you as a pirate.” ‘Clotilde, [ need gold, for a man in poverty might as well be dead, 4H sapees to go, as you know, as first luff under the noted pirate chief who bore the unenviable name of the Sea Monster; but my plans, as you are also well aware, fell through, and the captain was shot or drowned, when making his escape some time ago, and his fate led meto try and lead a less dangerous life and turn smuggler; but your father came and stole you from me, and now I have anotber lan which I wish to make known to you, and if it is successful we will be as rich as a king,” and the man’s eyes sparkled with anticipation, while his pretty wife waited impatiently for him to tell his story of how wealth would come to them. / CHAPTER II. THE STORY OF THE LOVERS. THE man who had sosummarily slain the constable, when the latter had, as he believed, eyery advantage over him, was, as the reader has surmised, by no means the aged individual his «ghd locks and weather-bronzed face indi- cated. yg He had painted, or dyed his face to look bronzed and weather-beaten, and his white hair was a neat wig, while his gait and stoop were feigned, Divested of disguise and standing erect, he was a fine-looking, sun-browned young sailor of twenty-eight, with a, reckless face and dashing air that were very attractive. In fact the two, the girl and her pirate bus- band, were certainly a bandsome couple, but, as she sat by his side in the little arbor, grasp- ing bis hand, she little dreamed that that very hand had, only a few moments before; driven a knife-blade into her father's heart. That the young sailor wassorry that it was so, there was no doubt but it had been his life, or the constable’s, and in slaying the latter he had removed a very dangerous enemy. The husband and wife had met a year before, when the young sailor had resented an insult offered the young girl by a party of carousing seamen, while she was looking for her father in the lower walks of the town, His good right arm had placed a number of them prone upon the ground, and offering him- self as an escort to the lady he had so well served, he had accompanied her to her little home just out of the town limits. From that day the tws had been lovers, but the sailor, like his kind, ever fickle, had tired of his sweetheart, and plotting to cut out a Gov- ernment cruiser, and join thé pirate known as the Sea Monster, in sailing the seas under th black flag, he had decided to desert the fair Clo- tilde Clair. But bers was not a nature to submit tamely to slights, and she had, upon learning of his in- tention, put the young commander of the cruiser upon bis guard, and the result was a disastrous failure upon the part of the pirates, vf ~ the capture of the Sea Monster, and a narrow escape from death of her lover, Suspecting the cause of their failure, the young sailor felt that he had a dangerous fce in bis discarded sweetbeart, and needing her aid in rescuing the Sea Monster and otber prison- ers, he went to her with a story that caused her to believe that she had Wronged him, and gladly she had atoned for her act by aiding in the rescue of the pirates, which, as the consta- ble’s daughter, she was able to do, The escaped Sea Monster, however, having been either shot or drowned, the young pirate lieutenant had run off with Clotilde, married her, and then had her kidnapped from him by her father, Realizing the great service sbe could be to him, and becoming again infatuated with her, he had sought ber out in her home at the risk of bis life, to enlist her in a new enterprise that he had on hand, and which will now be devel- oped by his story to his wife. Boyd Benedict, knowing well that be must not allow Clotilde to become aware of his dark deed, committed among the magnolias half an hour before, was anxious to get her away from her home before the discovery of the consta- ble’s death should be made, Once she was aware that ber father had died by the hand of ber husband, she would become as revengeful as an Indian, the young pirate well knew, and kill bim or cause his arrest without one atom of pity, for hers was a strange nature, as he had bad reason to find out, ‘‘Well, Boyd, what is the plan you have on hand?’ asked Clotilde, as the man sat a moment in deep thought. ‘Well, Clotilde, I will tell you, and at once, for what I have to do, I cannot delay in. ‘““Do you remember an old sailor with gray beard and bair, who was known as Old Mys- tery?” “Yes, and he always spoke in a whisper and looked about nervously, as though he expected to be surprised.” “That is the man, Clotilde; well, he got his name by pe peat hinting at a secret which he knew, and would never make known. ‘Some days ago Old Mystery got into trou: ble over a game of cards, and he would have been killed, bad I not gone to bis rescue. **The old man seemed to be cbildishly grate- ful for what I did, and in return for my ser- vice to bim, came to me with his secret.” ‘* His secret?” ‘Yes, the one be has hinted at for the past ten years among his messmates.” “And he told it to you?” “ Yes.” “* And am I to know, Boyd?” 4 You are, Clo’, as I wish you to help mein it.’ ‘“T willdo all that I can, Boyd; but what was Old Mystery’s secret?” asked Clotilde, with all the curiosity of her sex excited to the utmost. CHAPTER III, OLD MYSTERY’S’ SECRET. “THe secret, Clotilde, which Old Mystery has carried so long Jocked in bis heart, is just this: he knows where a pirate treasure is buried,” said Boyd Benedict, with the air of a man who knew that his words would create a sensation. ‘ ‘‘ Ah, Boyd!” fairly gasped the young wife, turning pale at the thought of such knowledge bein Sia be any one, while visions of dia- roonds, rubies and luxuries untold arose before her eyes, . t ‘* Yes, Clotilde, Old Mystery’s story is just this, and bis secret is a most valuable one in- deed; but it is yet to be discovered just what it amounts to. - ‘“* You have hesrd of Morgan the outlaw?” ‘Oh, yes! and what a terrible pirate he was, ‘‘ Terrible, indeed, and one who gained the riches of kings throat his piracies, ‘“Now Morgan bad a young lieutenant, Old Mystery says, that ran off with all of his chief’s treasure, and, afraid to land with it, at any point,'he cruised about the seas, unti! 9 ee. one night wrecked upon an island in the u “ An island, and on tho Florida coast, Boyd?’ “That I do not know, Clotilde; but it was either one of the Chandeleurs, or one of tae Florida Keys, or an island of the Bahamas.” “A rather large number to select from, Boyd,” said Clotilde with a look of disappoint- ment, “True, Clotilde: but then I have a correct Stay MT a ee ee
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‘crew, to 0 ~ vividness before picture of the island, from two of its sides, the north and south, a chart of its surroundings a league around it, and the channel leading into os and a drawing of the spot where the tre:.sure es. ‘It was called Pirates’ Island, from the fact of its having been the resort of buccaneers; but no one knows of it, or at least as the burial- place of a vast treasure.” “ But Old Mystery knows?” *«He knows just this, Clotilde, and no more, ‘* He says that he learned of the hidden trea- sure through an old sailor comrade of his, who ‘was wounded in a combat ahd died in his arms, “This old man told Old Mystery, who was then comparatively young, that he had been wrecked on the island with Morgan’s pirate lieutenant, and was the only one to escape, as he had clung to a spar, and, after drifting at - for two days had been picked up by a ves- sel. ““He had gone, a year &fter to the island, ac- companied only by three comrades, and they had gathered up the treasure and buried it, in- jeudins to return with a larger craft and carry t away. “They had taken with them ample gems, to sell for gold, for their immediate needs, and, after drawing sketches of the island, studying the channel to run in, ard taking soundings, they bad departed in their little sloop. ‘But sickness had overtaken them at sea, and Old Mystery had buried bis three com- rades, and ulone, after terrible suffering and fete 7 reached port, ‘With the gems, which he and his comrades had brought with them, and all of which he had, he had entered upon a life of dissipation, instead of buying another vessel and shipping a o back to the island, and the result was that be thus let years slip by, and did not return. «4 ** At last he took a coast smuggler into his confidence, and the man fitted out his craft, got a’small, but good crew from the Reef Pirates, and set sail for the Gold Island. “Among the crew was an Indian, who had een chief of a band of the Pasquagoulas; but ~who was a perfect seaman, and knew the coast thoroughly. . ‘“‘He had been unfriendly with the Reef Pirates, as they bad, on one occasion attacked his village, burned it, and murdered his peuple; but he had, the smugglers thought, buried the hatchet, and was taken along for the cruise. “Old Mystery told me the Indian called him- self after the name of his tribe, Pasquagoula, and was a superb specimen of manhood, while -he was a rfect sailor, and would stand at the wheel twelve hours at a stretch, and not ask to ‘be relieved, “This the lazy crew liked, and the Indian ns taking a trick at the wheel nearly all the ime. ‘The craft was a coasting scbooner, clumsy looking, but stanch and fast, and besides the captain, Old Mystery, and the Indian, there were five in the crew, which would be enough, they thought, to divide the treasure among, large as it was represented as being.” ‘‘And it was said to be vast, Boyd?” asked Clotilde, listening to the story with the deepest mero ‘* Yes, indeed, Clotilde, for Old Mystery says that it was a sbip-load, so his old shipmate had told him, and consisted of gold, silver, jewels trinkets, and booty in vast quantity and o Y great value, ‘*1 tell you, we will be richer than England’s king if we get it.” ‘But did not the Reef Pirates get it when beg Pir with Old Mystery?” te) “That was strange; but how did it happen that they did not?” ‘*T will tell you, Clotilde, and must hasten on with my story, for what we do, must be done at nee, “‘T have told you the secret of Old Mystery, and now I will tell you about his second cruise in search of the Pirates’ Island; but you do not fear that your mother may come here in search of you?” “No, for she bas gone over to a neighbor’s; but I fear father may return, and he would ‘come this way from the forest.” “No, he will doubtless remain until night- fall,” was the cool answer; but the slayer of the man. of whom he spoke slightly shuddered, and cast.a quick glance toward the magnolias, as though the scene therein, with the form of his wife’s father lying dead beneath their shel- tering ae orpcang eer 4 ed with painful is mind. | The Indian Pilot. CHAPTER IV.. THE INDIAN SAILOR’S REVENGE, ConTINUING his story as it was told him by Old Mystery, tbe sailor, Boyd Benedict went on: ‘“‘The craft sailed with the treasure-seelkers, Clotilde, and all were in high glee at the pros- pect before them. ‘*But from their reaching blue water, the weather turned against them, and they were compelled to reef down and make all snug be- low and aloft for a rough time. ‘* Storm followed storm, and they were blown hither and thither, off of their course, and then compelled to scud for two days before a gale. ‘*Some were in favor of giving up the ex- pedition, saying that the Fates were against them, ‘‘But Old Mystery urged them on, and the captain came to his aid, while the Indian told them it was a legend of his people, that. bad luck and death came to those who sailed upon the sea for a certain purpose, and then gave it up witbout accomplishing it, ‘‘The result was that the vessel held on its way, and at last reached the collection of islands, amid which was situated the one where- on was hidden the pirates’ treasure. .“The weather bad become clear, and it was hoped that now they would have no more trouble; but, when in a position of danger among the islands, a storm arose, and Old Mys- tery, who had sighted the island, and pointed it out to his comrades, told them that it would be madness to attempt to reach it in that blow. ‘*The Indian, as was almost always the case, was at the helm, and upon going to relieve him, Old Mystery said be refused to allow him to do so, telling him that he would steer the vessel. ‘* Old Mystery says that he had felt sorry for the way in which the captain and crew bad im- posed upon the Indian, who appeared to be a noble fellow, and he bad frequently urged him to let bim help bim at the helm. ‘*This the red-skin had appreciated, and the two bad become good friends, ‘*Learning from his messmates that they did not intend to allow the Indian an equal share in the treastre, Old Mystery had urged against their act, but to no avail, and he determined to stand by Pasquagoula in asserting his rights, ‘* Now, as be apprvached the Indian, to relieve bim at the helm, the latter refused sogive it up. ‘But Old Mystery took his stand by him, and, in a low tone told him what was the inten- tion of the crew regarding him, and added that be intended that they should not cheat him, and, before he showed them the hiding-place of the treasure, he would make them swear to give Pasquagoula his share, ‘‘The red-skin seemed greatly pleased at this, and said: ‘** Pale-face man my friend; let him stay by rudder-stick with me, and wait for tare, to come. ‘*¢ Indian no fool; have heap sense,’ ‘‘ Well, Old Mystery did as he was told, and aided the Indian at the helm. “Then the storm increased, and night came on, while the captain and crew became greatly alarmed, ‘‘ But the two helmsmen held their own, and guided the little vessel as best they could among the dangers about them, ‘*Soon the Indian left Old Mystery alone at the tiller and went amidships, where he had bis oe papi made fast, for he had brought it on r . ‘Tt was lying bottom up between the masts, and was lashed to the deck, ‘In the canoe were fastened the sails, pad- dles and rudder, with other things which were securely bound up. : ‘The Indian bent over his canoe for a time, Old Mystery watching him the while, though the crew paid no attention to him. “Then he came aft once more, and resumed his place at the tiller. “The craft was now driving along through the darkness under reefed sails, and the wind was increasing in fury. ** About them were reefs and rock islands, so that the open water was scarce, and any mo- ment the vessel might strike. “** Pasquagoula friend go and stay by canoe, Wait for Indian,’ said the red-skin to Old Mys- tery, who obeyed in. silence, though what Prpmpted him to do so he says he never knew, .““He found that the canoe had been freed from its deck-lashings, and was about to return and tell the Indian so, when suddenly a wild roar was heard abead, the bows of the vessel went high in the air, and then came down with a quick and sickening sensation. 3 **Next followed a terrific shock, that threw every one to the deck, while the crashing of timbers showed that the vessel had been literal- ly broken in twain, ‘* Down came the masts, rigging and all, and the wreck was complete. ‘In that terrible moment, Old Mystery says he felt his arm grasped, and heard ‘the Indian say: *** Help quick! get canoe over side!’ “Instanti.y he did as directed, and hardly knowing what be did or how it all happened, he found himself seated in the canoe, which was riding the waves like a feather, the Indian in the stern, paddle in hand, guiding its course. ‘*Screams for help came from the wreck, a continued crashing was beard for a while, and then the cries ceased, ending in shrieks of de- spair, as the bull went to were left helpless in the mad waters. ‘* But above all arose a wild war-cry, the tri- umphant yell of Pasquagoula, who explained to the amazed seaman that the Reef Pirates whom he had destroyed had been his bitter foes, hav- ing, with otbers, gone to is village and slain his people, robbing them and burning their odges. “All night Jong, Old Mystery said, the ‘were dashed about in the hght canoe; but wit the dawn the Pirate’s Island was sighted and they landed there, and he showed the red-skin the hiding-place of the outlaws’ booty. ‘*Pasquagoula had fitted up his canoe with what provisions he could hide in it, and, unable to carry but a little gold wich them, they deter- mined to return to some port, buy a vessel, and again come for the treasure. ‘‘When near the land, one night, Old Mys- stery says, he accidentally fell into the sea, while the Indian sat at the tiller, asleep, for he was worn out, ‘“‘He had sunk deep, and upon arising, saw the canoe gliding rapidly away, Pasquagoula still asleep, from fatigue. “But, though be hailed loudly, he was not heard, and the canoe glided on out of sight and disappeared, “Old Mystery was a brave swimmer, and he saw that bis only chance was to reach the land. ‘Tt was a desperate struggle; but he made it, and crawling out upon the utterly exhausted. ; ‘Then it was that he saw the Indian cruising about in search of him, baving awakened from the deep sleep he had fallen into, to find him gone, “But Old Mystery was too utterly pros- trated to call aloud, and the canoe passed on down the coast,” . , ‘‘ And the old sailor?” asked the young wife, who had listened with the deepest attention to ait shay had been told her by ber pirate hus- and, pant al “Well, it seems that Old Mystery suffered fearfully, before he at last wandered, more dead than alive, into a habitation on the coast. ‘Believing that the Fates were against him he dared not make another attempt to seek the Pirates’ Island, and thus allowed years to pass away. ‘* Now he is anxious to go there, bas told me his'secret, and wishes to give me the gold in re- turn for the service I rendered bim.” “Oh! will it not 9 h! “Father, and mother too, will forgive me then, and I will make them so bare n their old age, with a beautiful home,” cried Clotilde, completely carried away with enthusiasm at the prospect of untold wealth, as it willindeed be grand, Clotilde, and I in- tend to start at once upon the work of securing the treasure, and you must help me,” ‘“*T will do all in my power, Boyd, but what can poor little me do?” ‘You can do a great deal, if you will.” “T will, I assure you, so map out my work, captain,” she said pleasantly, and the young pirate began to unfold his jeces and the crew ach he fell down grand if we can only be plan of action to . gain possession of the treasure on the fatefulisl- _ and, CHAPTER V. HE PLOT FOR A WOMAN'S AID. magnolias, “Old Mystery bas wn almost childish after his numerous ships and dis- appointments, and he really has forg where the Treasure Island is,” “Forgotten?” . “Yes, he has lost it.” “But surely he knows anxiously asked Clotilde, a about where it was?” ’ qu Ah 0 T if (y} A “You see, Clotilde,” began Boyd Benedict, with another hasty glance over toward the — ’ we oo
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rs, ; i , company them, that you wi Ke re ‘* No, he does not know whether it was one of the Chandeleurs, or on the Florida coast, or among the Bahamas,” ‘‘ This is remarkable, Boyd.” ‘* Yes, but it can be found, for he thinks it was among the Bahamas, and knows about the time it took him to go there,” ‘* He has a chart of the waters an it, amap the treas- sure and all, and what is better still, a correct pictare of the isle from the north and south of the island, with the hiding-place o views. ‘‘With these in our favor, and the fact that Old Mystery goes along, and may recall scenes as we cruise about, I believe the island can be found,” ‘*T hope so, Boyd.” ‘* Well, there is no harm in the search, espe- cially as it will not cost us much.” *“*You will have to purchase a vessel, Boyd.” ‘Ob no, for I can get onein a cheaper way.” “* Ab! but how!” ‘You know that a craft came into port some time ago, which was known as the Flagless Schooner?” ‘* Yes! it was an armed craft and belonged toa youth who had captured her from a pirate, I believe.” ‘*That is the craft, Clotilde, and the owner’s name was Mark Bonodel.” . I met bim, and a handsome young man he ’ “ You met him?” quickly asked Benedict with oometning like jealousy in his tone. ‘* Yes, for he came here to get father to put an officer and some men on board, to keep the schooner, as he discharged his crew and ha sented his vessel to the Government, and wished it held until it was taken possession of.” ‘IT knew that one of your father’s officers was on board, with half a dozen men; but I did not know that you had seen Bonodel.” “ Yes, and he told us something of his life, and how a man had destroyed his happiness, by killing his father, driving his mother to die a penver. and stealing his little sister and sending er off among strangers, ‘‘The young captain had gone to sea, to make money and try to find his sister, and after some years bad got a position ashore with the very man whom he so hated, and, in the end had slain him. “Chance put it in his power to get possession of the pirate schooner, and in it he went on a eruise in search of bis sister and found her on one of the Wreckers’ Islands among the Baha- mas. ‘* So he gave his vessel to the Government and departed with his sister, my father urging him to do so, as he might be tried for his confessed killing of his old enemy, who was a rich money- lender in New Orleans, ‘* His schooner father has charge of, and that is all I know of the rir, captain.” “Tt is enough, Clotilde, for my purpose, for that is the schooner I intend to seize.” **Oh Boyd!” ‘‘ Fact! for as the craft was successful in the search for the girl, it is a good omen that it will be in the search for the lost Treasure Isl- d,’ ‘But how will you get possession of it, Boyd?” “T wish you to go to the cottage, get your things on, and what you care to \ake with you, and then go to the town, arriving there about nightfall.’ * Well?” “you know the officer in charge of the schoon- ors Yes.” » ‘“* He knows you?” : “Oh yés, and has since I was a little girl.” ‘Good! now you tell him your father wishes him to come at once to his cottage to see him, and to bring two of his men. ‘“You can also add, that as they are to bring some provisions back, and Nias father wiil ac- l remain on board until their return,” * But, Boyd—” * Listen, Clotilde, to all of my plot. Soon after they have gone [ will come out with a boat’s load of men, which you will tell those on board is the party returning, and then you are to go into the cabin. ‘*T will board and carry the schooner, getup s anchor and sail and run out, a second en of men joining me a league down the coast. ’ “Now what do you think of my plot, Clo- e ‘Tt is a bold one, and just like you, Boyd.” * And will succeed.” re- The Indian Pilot. “So I think, and without bloodshed, which I abhor; but what you do must be done at once.” * Yes, and I will be off.” * But the crew?” ** Are all ready, waiting my return.” ‘*Then I will not be the one to fail you, Boyd and I will start at once,” and the husband an wife parted, the latter going to ber cottage home, the former making bis way back to the magnolias, past the prostrate form of the con- stable, and thence to his boat, into which he sprung and pulled rapidly away. CHAPTER VI. OLOTILDE’S MISSION. In the harbor of San Augustine lay a very pretty craft at anchor. She was armed, gaunt, trim alow and aloft, and looked like a vessel that could show a clean pair of heels to an enemy, overhaul a clipper, ride out a gale with ease, and sail under a mere breath of wind. Upon her deck were seven men visible, one of them pacing the quarter-deck with the air of one who felt his importance, A glance at this individual was sufficient to show that he was po sailor, though he aped the free-and-easy air of one. He was fat, red-faced, and pom us, and wore a sailor hat set upon his bullet-like head, and which had evidently been borrowed for the occasion, for he had been put on board with a small crew, as a guard of the schooner. The sight of salt water fairly made him sea- sick, but there, while the vessel was at anchor he was all right; but should she get under way, he would have hastened ashore with ludicrous alac- rity. But it must not be supposed that Under. Con- stable Jonathan Jenks was any coward, for he was not, when ashore; for there he had proven himseJf as brave as a lion, and he was more feared than was his superior officer, the head constable. Yet afloat, Officer Jenks was not at home, and he knew it, His men were distributed here and there about the schooner, some smoking, some idling, and one busy in mending his clothes. Ever and anon as he paced the deck, Consta- ble Jenks would raise a glass to his eyes and turn it upon the town, with the air of one who was raised to just such work, and then resume his walk once more. In one of these glances his eyes fell upon a boat putting off from the shore. It was growing dark, but the constable could see that the boat held two occupants, and one of these was a woman. Straight for the schooner the boat was head- ed, and, as it drew nearer, the constable called out in tones that he meant to be thoroughly sea- manilike: ‘* Ho, boat! ahoy! aboy there!” “Ay, ay, Constable Jenks, Iam coming on board to see you,” came back in a voice that was silvery and ringing. ‘* Clotilde, as I live!” muttered the constable, as he recognized the voice, and even in the gathering poor it could be detected that his face flushed crimson, Now it must be confessed that the constable was a bachelor, and had been very sweet on Clotilde, the pretty daugbter of his chief, since she was a wee girl, and it bad hurt him badly when she ran off with Boyd Benedict, Returning to her home once more, he hoped that she would forget her husband and in time love bim, for he said: “T shall make a widow of her, as soon as I can get the noose about that boy’s neck, for he deserves hanging.” Now, at her coming out to the schooner, he was immensely tickled; but his good sense told him that she was the bearer of a message from her father, for the constable frequently sent Clotilde upon important errands, he knew. ‘*Come on board, Miss Clotilde, and welcome, such as an humble sailor can give you,” said Jonathan Jenks, feeling that Clotilde would be impressed by bis position as commander of the schooner. ‘“My dear Captain Jenks, I thank you,” said Clotilde, as she took his hand and sprung to the deck, ‘Will you enter my cabin, lady?’ and Jona- than Jenks felt his importance more and more, as he led the way to the pretty cabin of the schooner, There, Clotilde saw that the land-lubber com- mander pro tem of the schooner bad been put- ting on a warlike air, for he had cutlasses and olen scattered about, as though ready at and for any emergency. “Be seated, lady,” said Jonathan affectedly,. placing an easy-chair for Clotilde, while he- added: ‘* And allow me to offer you a glass of wine?” “No, thank you, Captain Jenks,” and Clo- tilde emphasized the title, ‘I have eome upon: an yeesbe'y at ‘Indeed, and from your good father, Mis: Clotilde?” re oe “IT bave come to tell you,” continued Clo-. tilde, evasively, “‘ that you are to take three of your men, and go at once out to father’s home. “‘T came out in a‘shore boat, which you caw return in, and the oarsmen will land you where. ye" Cortainiy, Miss Clotilde; but i ertainiy, Miss Clotilde; but is there an trouble with the chief?” - “There are some men to come on board the: schooner, and to be kept here, Captain Jenks,” ‘I see, I see! some whom your father: does not wish to commit at once to the jail.” “And, I will await your return here, and then will bave to ask you to escort me home,” said Clotilde with one of her sweetest smiles. At this Jonathan Jenks was delighted, and calling his men he ordered them to get their- —_ and be ready to accompany him ashore, adding: ‘Now, Miss Clotilde, I leave you commander- of the schooner, and should the crew not obey you I will have them bung at the yard-arm upon my return,” and Jonathan Jenks looked: fierce, and as though be meant what he said. A moment more and he and his three men: were in the boat rowing sboreward., After oot had gotten ont of sight, Clotilde: suddenly called to two of the men and said: “T have forgotten to tell Captain Jenks to go out by the old chapel, where he was to be joined by some one else, so please jump into the boat’ alongside and row after bim.” . “Yes, lady, but if he has Janded, where will! we find him?” answered one of the men politely. It was Clotilde’s desire to get the men out of” the way, for fear they might foolishly resist. the boat when it boarded and thus cause blood- shed and she was only sorry she could not send the three men off on the errand; but this she: dared not do, so she said: “You will go by the Anchor Inn, and if he: has left there hasten on out to my house, until’ you see it will be impossible to overtake him, and then return; but if you overteke him tel! him to go at once to the old chapel, and thence: to join my father,” : ** Yes, miss,” and taking the shore boat along- side, and which Constable Jenks made use c/, instead of one belonging to tbe schooner, tbe: two men started upon their aimless errand, never once doubting the good faith of their cbief’s pretty daughter. CHAPTER VII. IN A PIRATE'S POWER. CLOTILDE waited until she saw the boat- recede from sight in the gloom, for it was now dark, and then she glanced toward the last: man left upon the schooner, He stood not far away, leaning over the bul- warks, and apparently gazing at the lights of the town; but his eyes were fixed upon the. maiden. He was a tall, broad-shouldered man, and one- whom Clotilde now recognized with a start, for she bad once had a scene with him, when, to her amazement, he had one day confessed his love for her and asked hers in return. The man had been polite, and took his rebuff in silence; but a wicked smile had crossed his- lips as he turned away, and that smile she had remembered. She had told her father of the circumstance, and he had said that the man was a reformed pirate, and one who was bis trusted spy, and for that reason he cared not to quarre) with him, so would pass over the affair, but for Clo- tilde to avoid him all in her power, Now, as she stood alone upon the deck witb him, she felt a feeling of awe, for she remem- bered that wicked smile, and had involuntarily placed herself in his power, With an apparent indifference she turned and walked toward the cabin, and entering it, threw herself into ameas -chair, Presently she glanced upward, and again started, for she beheld the eyes of the man look- ing down upon ber. She had heard no step above her head, and yet he had reached the place from whence he could see her. : back as she looked up, as He had dod though he did not wish to be seen, and when. : / q :
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—— ‘Clotilde looked again his face was not over the open skylight. She now regretted that she bad sent the other two men away; but she had done so, wishing to avoid bloodshed, It was certainly time for her husband to come with his crew; but they could not yet be in sight, or the man on deck would hail the boat, se thought. Clotilde was a brave girl, and she had passed ‘throug® many dangers; but now she grew ner- vous, and she fairly trembled as she beheld the man descending the companionway. “Well, sir, do you wish to see me?” she asked haughtily, assuming a calmness she did not feel. Tas man was tall, with great broad shoulders, a full-bearded face, and eyes that were black and restless, He looked like one who should wear epaulettes on his shoulders, rather than be holding the rank of a common hireling under her father, for about him there was an air of dignity and conscious power. ‘Yes, fair Clotilde, I have come to speak with you upon a subject very near my heart,” the said, in a voice that was low and by no means unpleasant. “Silence, sir! for you know that you address another man’s wife,” said Clotilde in icy tones. ‘True, you are now the wife of Benedict the Buccaneer,” was the answer in a sneering tone, ‘*T am the wife of one I love, sir, and I will not bave you speak of my husband in a tone of disrespect.” ‘When I first told you of my love, Clotilde, you vere not married; but, though you spurn- ed me—” ws I did not spurn an honest love, but would ‘give my full sympathy to one thus loving with no hope of return; but you I could not care for, ‘nor could [ trust, and I told my father that you had, without being even my friend, sought to forca me to become your wife.” _‘* Yes, and he has since treated me with un- ‘kindness; but this meeting now makes the past even, for, though you are married I love you, and, as soon asI can make you a widow, you ‘shall become my wife.” He spoke calmly, and in a way that told Clo- tilde that he meant just what he said: but she kept up a stout heurt, and said haughtily: ‘*Mv father shall know of this insult to his “ec auger pir;” ah! you talk like a child, for, let me tell you, in placing me on board this schooner as a guard, your fatber did the very thing I wished, for he has enabled me to gain possession of her, and even now I have balf a hundred gallant ‘tars pulling for this craft, and within two hours she will spread her white sails, and with me as her commander, will speed away upon ‘an errand that will bring me riches untold, ** Listen to me, girl, for I love you, and [ will amake you as rich as a queen,” He moved toward her as he spoke, but she ‘started back and seized a cutlass, while she cried: ‘* Stand back, sir, or I will cut you down!” The man started, but it was not on account ~ = blade that confronted him, held ina girl’s an A sound reached his ears from without, and be started on deck with the cry; ‘*Hal! I hear the splash of oars and my men are already here!” oo CHAPTER VIII. TWO PRIZES TAKEN, WHEN the man reached the deck, be glanced “over the stern of the schooner, and the tide run- ning out had the bow pointed toward the town, It was evident that he exp-cied the boats from that direction; but none were visible, and be ran swiftly forward, and g!anced abead, There he beheld two boats approaching with ‘a long, easy stroke, “Tbose cannot be my men, for they come from the town and not from down the coast. “Ha! 1 remember that Jenks hinted that the Government would soon take possession of the schooner, and those are evidently men-o’-war’s- ‘men, - “Curses! Within two hours more the schoon- er would bave been mine, and now I am thwart- ed on the very threshold of success, ‘But | dare not allow the girl to return, or I ‘am lost. No, she shall go with me, if we both sink together!” Having come to this bold resolve, he sped aft bod the speed of the wind, and darted into the cabin, JUJU0UU U1 U1 } }}:=°,0°5 °° === ....=.°=°0''00t nS. eer nen — The Indian Pilot. Clotilde stood at bay as he entered, and raised her cutlass; but he advanced upon her with his own blade drawn. , ** Back, sir!” she cried sternly. ‘*Bah! do you oppose me, girl?’ and witha skillful movement of bis weapon he twisted hers from her grasp and springing upon her placed his band over her mouth, He was a man of very great strength, and taking a silk scarf from about his neck, be bouud it around the mouth of the young girl, so as to prevent any outcry, and in an instant — slipped about her wrists a pair of hand- cuffs. ‘*) dislike to take harsh measures, my lady; but I shall make up for any seeming rudeness by my utter devotion, and the fortune I shall give you, “Come, for if I remain here five minutes longer, I shall lose my life, and you will tri- umph.” He seized her in his arms as he spoke, and sprung on deck, The splash of the oars of the approaching boats now resounded near at hand, and. the daring man knew that he had not a moment to ose, Clotilde felt herself powerless in bis grasp, for her bands were manacled and her mouth securely bound beyond the possibility of out- cry. Bo she quietly submitted, awed, and wonder- ing what ber reckless captor would do with her, He left her not an instant in doubt, for, seiz- ing a rope, he passed one end of it about the taffrail, and threw the other over into the water. Then, holding her securely with his Jeft arm, he grasped the rope with bis right hand and lowered himself into the water, just under the stern of the schooner. The tide, as said, was running out, and the moment he released the rope, it bore him swift- ly away from the schooner, just as the two boats ran alongside. ‘*A minute more and I would have been too late; but so far 1 am safe, and I shall swim to head off my boats,” he muttered. That he was asuperb swimmer there was no doubt, for he moved along with his burden without the slightest effort. Further and further he went from the schooner, upon the deck of which he heard the tramping of the men who had boarded her. Then he saw the sails glimmer, and soon af- ter the schooner swung around and headed to- ward the sea, ‘She will pass near me, but I think we will not be seen; but what can be up, that she goes at once to sea? “Wonder if some one has betrayed my crew, and reported their intended coming to cut out the scbooner?” Kor a few minutes he swam on in silence, and then said, as Clotilde seeing the coming sckooner made an effort to free herself from his grasp: ‘* Be quiet, girl, for I stand no nonsense, and like a fish, and you are no weight to me. ‘* Be still, I say, for if you attract the atten- tion of some quick-eyed lookout on that schooner, I shall hold you beneath the water and thus quiet you.” This threat had the desired effect, for Clotilde remained quiet, while her captor swam on with bold, untiring stroke. At last, as the schooner drew near, he ceased swimming, and sinking low in the water sus- tained bis own, and the girl's head, only above the water, so as to present as small an object as possible to the sight of any one who might be watching on board the craft. “ Lively, lads! get up that extra sail, for we may have that cruiser after us, that ran into the harbor to-night,” said a voice on the schooner. ** Benedict’s voice among a thousand! ‘‘By Heaven! be then is the one that has captured my prize in the schooner, and not Government men, as I thought. ‘* Well, he has the schooner, and I have bis wife, so we both have captured a priz» .to- night,” and the man fairly hissed the words, while Clotilde made a violent effort to cry out and release herself from the grasp that held her, for she too had recognized her husband’s voice and knew that he bad successfully cut out the schooner, while she, alas! was in the power of a man she had every reason to dread, Half a mile from the shore, ber hands mana- cled, ber mouth bound so securely she could utter no ery, and depending wholly upon the pluck and strength of her captor for her life, it you need bave no fear of drowning, as 1 swim. 5 was no wonder that she almost gave up in de- ‘spair, and she felt as though she was going to swoon away. CHAPTER IX. BENEDICT, THE BUCCANEER,. AFTER parting with bis young and beautiful wife, whose deep love for bim made her untrue to herself, for sbe desired to see him win riches at whatever cost, Boyd Benedict returned to his boat, as the reader will remember, by the magnolia grove, in which had been enacted the tragedy in which be had played so desperate a part. Getting into his boat he rowed rapidly up to the town, and landed at a large and rambling old inn near the water’s edge. It was balf-ruined and very old, but the street side of it was occupied as a wine-shop, with a few rooms over it for lodgers, and an eating- hall, which gained for it the name of inn. The rear, or sea side, overhung the water with large gable ends, and looked the very picture of desolation and ruin, And yet, in one of these suppcosed-to-he- deserted wings, a number of men were congre- gated, smoking, drinking and sleeping. Upon entering the inn, Benedict bad walked to an alcove at the further end, on his way thither calling out in a feeble voice, in keeping with his apparent age: ‘* A glass 0’ rum and water, landlord.” The landlord, a villainous-looking individual, looked up from waiting on several thirsty cus- tomers, and said testily: : ‘* All right, old man, as soon as I bave time.” ~ But he quickly served those in front of him, and went to the alcove, ‘‘How goes it, cap’n?” he asked, in a whis- er. can All works well with me; but how about the men?” p ‘‘ Are waiting for you, and if you had delay- ed long, would be as drunk as lords; but I will unlock the door, and you can go right up to the room.” So saying, he left the alcove; and soon after the rear partition slowly opened, and Benedict stepped out into a ballway, where stood the landlord with a lantern. “ Here is a light, and you know the way,” he said, “Yes, and the boats?” ‘© Are in the cellar basin all ready.” “Good! so we will be off within half an hour, and if | an»successful, you shall be a rich man,’ ‘‘T hope so, and believe I will, Cap’n Bene- dict, for I have always found you to bea man of your word, But I must get back to my tap-room, so good-luck to you! ** And to you.” The two men grasped hands, and Benedict, taking the lantern, moved along the rickety hallway for a considerable distance, when he came to a pair of stairs. These he ascended, and following another passage soon halted at the end before a large iron door, Upon this he rapped five times distinctly, A low sound, as of voices, came from within and then a silence followed, Slowly and without any sound the door swung open a little way and a voice said: ‘* Who comes?” ** Benedict.” B ioe: Ay, ey, captain, and we are glad to see you, A chain was now unfastened, and the door opened, while Benedict’s lantern revealed a room, in which the lamps had been quickly put out at his knock, There were some thirty men present, all of them armed to the teeth, and evidently sailors by their garb and general appearance. An honest craft would not care to ship such a crew, for they had that in their faces that indi- cated a desire to scuttle a ship or cut a throat to furtber their advancement, ‘Well, lads, it is time to start, and I am gise tosee you all ready,” said Benedict, in that free- and-easy way that a good commander often ad- dresses his men, without any fear that they would look upon him as their equal only, “ Ay, ay, sir, all ready,” said a chorus of voices, and after a drink all round at their cap- tain’s suggestion, they followed him tbrough a trap-door down a ladder, The lantern showed water beneath the room and several boats there, with oars, arms an bundles in two of them. Into these boats the men entered, and then — seizing a rope, Benedict raised a slide in oneside
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6 The Indian Pilot. of the walled basin and peered out upon the waters, ‘“* All right, lads, for thereis nothing in sight,” he said, and then a large shutter was thrown open and the boats were drawn out of the basin. Then the shutter was closed behind them, the men seized their oars, and pulled out into the harbor. It was now an hour after dark, and Benedict felt that Clotilde bad had time to carry out her plan, so he pulled straight for the schooner. He saw a light on board, but was not hailed as he approached. This was a surprise; but he kept on and soon ran alongside, though half-fearing that Clotilde bad failed in her attempt, and expecting a trap. Springing on board, cutlassin hand, be saw no one to oppose him, and, followed by his men, he ran into the cabin. Still no one met him. What could it mean? Stooping, he picked up Clotilde’s bonnet. Tbis proved that she certainly had been there, But where was she? ‘Not a soul on board, sir, from keel to truck,” reported one of the men whom he had selected as an officer. ‘This is remarkable, **Clotilde must have led the whole crew to leave, by some excuse, and found it necessary to go with them. ‘But I cannot wait for her; I dare not, so up with the anchor, Marsden, get sail set, and we'll gO to sea as fast as wind and tide can carry us, So said Boyd Benedict, and ten minutes after the schooner was in full flight seaward, in as much more time she had passed the bold swim- mer and his captive, and within half an hour the other boat’s crew, which had been ar- ranged to join the vessel after leaving port, was on board. Then the reckless commander ordered his men aft, and in his terse, pleasant way, said: ‘*Lads, I sail in this schooner ona special mmission, and, if successful, you shall all reap a golden reward. ‘*What that mission is you need not know; but I promise you, until it is accomplished, the lockers shall not go empty of gold, for we will make prizes of such vessels as fall in our way, which our necessity demands, ‘‘Now help me with a will, and I will make your fortunes with my own, risking the yard- arm with you, taking bard knocks with you, and, if necessary, going down in our gallant craft,” Three cheers greeted this address, and Bene- dict the Buccaneer was afloat upon the, seas, bound in search of the Gold Island, though the secret of his cruise he carefully kept from kis crew. , CHAPTER X. THE MEETING IN THE MAGNOLIAS, WHEN the schooner had passed him, the swimmer felt that he must make for the shore, It was some distances off, and, strong swim- mer that he was, having never met his equal, Le felt that it was necessary for bim to get rest, He bad brought a life-preserver with him, which, though but a frail affair, greatly aided him in the support of Clotilde, though, without his assistance it would not have kept her from sinking. Clotilde also was a good swimmer, and though her arms were of little use, manacled as they were, she had no desire to sink, and so aided in keeping up all ia ber power. The boldness of the man, wicked as she be- lieved bim to be, won her respect, while his su- perb swimming commanded her admiration. At length the shore was reached, and the man aided the woman out upon the beach, It was just where Benedict had landed in the afternoon, when, in bis disguise as an old man, he had sought Clotilde in the arbor, Her home was not far away, and she beheld the light harning in the little sitting-room, where she knew that ber mother must be anx- iously waiting for her, while perhaps her father d gone over to the different neigbbors to fiud er. She felt deep regret at the pain she must give them, by her absence, and thought, when they went, to her little room, how they would find the letter of farewell she bad written them, telling them that she was going away, but only for a time, when sbe would return to make them happy and comfortable through life. This letter she bad pinned to a cusbion in her Be * ais Ne hdc pethidine pi tes ose tnact en ena hsitchten room, hoping her mother would not find it until the next day. Now, as she stood in the shadow of the mag- nolias, looking at the light, a prisoner, in irons and gagged, she was almost broken-hearted, for her plans bad gone wrong, her busband had gone to sea without her, and she felt that she was indeed deserted. ‘** Clotilde, I have brought you here, to rest for awhile, as before long my boats will pass on their way up the harbor, to take the schooner, ‘But, as she has escaped me, through that accursed husband ef yours running off with her, I shall go on up to the town and capture the little cruiser now lying at anchor there, and which [ have reason to know has a very small erew on board,” With her mouth bound, as it was still, Clo- tilde could make no reply, and the man went n: “T told one of my men to await the coming of the boats here, and then come on ahead in his canoe, and give me a signal, that I might boa ready, and when he got my answer to return and let them come on and board the craft. ‘* But the fellow is not here, and las played me false.” ‘*No, captain, Iam here,” said a deep voice, and a man stepped out from behind a large magnolia, The pirate started and thrust his hand into his breast, for a knife; but said quickly: ‘Ab! it is you, Osmond? “T am sorry 1 doubted you; but you fairly startled me.” ‘*T sought refuge behind the tree, sir, when I saw two persons land, for I did not at first re- cognize you, and did not expect you here.” ‘‘No, my coming was unexpected to myself; but the plot did not go as I planned, as Benedict the Buccaneer has stolen the schooner, and we will have to take second choice.” ‘“‘ This is too bad, sir; but I saw the schooner go by, and feared that you had gotten a crew up in the town and deserted me.” ‘* No, Osmond, I never desert friend or foe, as you will find out when you know me better; but Iam glad to see that you are all right, and I shall make you my first officer.” ‘‘Thank you, Captain Delbanco, and I will appreciate it. sir; but you spoke of capturing another vessel?” “Yes, an armed yacht, acting as a Gulf Guard, and commanded by a gallant young middy.” ‘Tbe Sea Owl?” ‘Yes, that is her name; but the boats are not in sight?” : ‘Yes, sir, and must be near at hand, for I bad them under my glass before you landed.” ‘*‘Ab yes, there they are, and I will go on with them, asking you to remain here and await my return, either by boat, or in the cruiser,” ; ‘ ‘“* And the prisoner, sir, for so she seems?” “Yes that is why I wish you to remain, for I shall leave her with you, asI do not wish her wank as there may be fighting; but guard her we ‘*T will do so, sir.” ‘* She must be dangerous, both manacled and gagged.’ “She is a tartar! and a pretty one to boot; but hold no conversation with her, and I make you responsible for her, Osmond,” , ‘*1 shall be, sir, with my life.” ‘‘ Now there come tbe boats and I will leave you; but, keepa bright watch, and when you see the cruiser coming, come out to us in your canoe,” ‘¢ Yes, Captain”Delbanco,” “If Fate goes against me, in a boat,” With this the man turned away, without a word to Crotilde, aud walked down to the shore, where two boats, filled with men, had just landed, After a moment’s delay, he sprung into the stern-sheets of one, and the two pulled swiftly away over the dark waters, heading up toward the distant town, while Clotilde and her guard were left alone among the magnolias, . : CHAPTER XI. THE CHARGE AND COUNTER-CHARGE. In silence the two, the man Osmond and the young and beautiful prisoner, Clotilde, stood gazing after the receding boats, _ The maiden was certainly suffering, end showed it, but she could utter no complaint, bound as was her mouth with the silk scarf, The wetting chilled her, the iron handcuffs chafed her delicate wrists, and the scarf about sir, as you have her ? I will come for you t phi. L . ‘e py nm her face really hurt her, while she was tired, and her heart was full to bursting. She gazed fixedly at the fuce of her compan- ion, or rather guard, and sbuddered, as though she knew him and felt dread of bim, At last, as the boats disappeared from sight, the man turned, and said, quietly: ‘* You know me?” Toe girl nodded. ‘Do you believe an oath binding, Clo- tilde?” Again a nod, ‘* Will you swear to me, if I take this ban- dage from off your lips, you will utter no out- cry? Another nod was ber reply. He saw that she was trembling, and he plac- ed his coat about her shoulders, and then took from about her face the scarf, saying as he did so: ‘You swear that you will utter no cry for ‘help?’ At first her parched lips could give no utter- ance, but after an effort she answered: ‘| Neg ‘‘Remember, you are within three hundred yards of your home, and that tuneful voice of yours might be heard there, should you call out.” ‘‘T shall remain quiet,” was the low answer. ‘““ You know me, | see?” ‘¢ Yes, I know you, Oscar Ormond, as one I ~ hate,” was the almost angry answer, The man laugbed lightly, and then said: ‘* It is strange that you should hate me when I love you so dearly.’ ‘¢ Your love is a sacrilege on the name.” “Well, whatever it is, 1 love you, ay, as deeply as I have hated your father, who hunted me down for my little misdeeds and made me commit greater ones, “T tell you, Clotilde, I intended to lead a square life; but your father would not let me.” ‘‘ My father knew of your wickedness, and it. was his duty to punish crime, ‘Once he liked you greatly, and even thought of you asa suitor for my hand. — “ But, when be knew that you had gambled away your mother’s home, taken her money, ‘and thus, by your actions, broken her heart, he felt that you were no man to be the lover of his daughter, and he sentenced you to punishment for your crimes,” : * Ay, and put me in a loathsome prison,” ‘‘- Yes, from which you escaped by killing the keeper, and a reward is now upon your head,” ‘*T care nothing for tbat, or I would not, two years after my escape, have ventured back ere. ‘But I have come, and a field opens itseif be- fore me to win gold from this night, for life has gone hard with me.” , ‘You have been a pirate, people say,” “Granted, it is no worse than what people say of you.” “ Ah! what is said of me?” : “That you ran off and married a pirate, when you could have had the pick of the best young men in the town, yes, and of thearisto~ crats in the navy too, ‘‘But, when your outlaw husband deserted you, you came back here to live with the old people again.” ‘¢Tt ig false! my husband did not desert me,” said Clotilde savagely. ' ‘* Well, they say so; but tell me, how it i¢ that I find you the prisoner of Captain Del- banco?”? ‘‘ He kidnapped me,” was the evasive reply. “Por what purpose?” Ne ‘*God only kuows,” was the dejected re- sp : if you will promise to one day be my wife, shall see that no barm befalls you, and more, will aid you to escape when the opportunity — offers.” ‘T bave as much to fear from you, as I have from the man you ¢call Delbanco.” ‘*You think so?” “1 know it,” ** Perbaps so, but I love you and hence would do ycu no barm; but listen, while I tell you that the man you love, the one youcall your husband, is the worst enemy you bave.” ‘‘Never! for he is all love and kindness to: me,” she said warmly, ; j ‘You think so?” “*T know it.” ‘* When did you see him last?” ‘“‘Tbis—1 mean I shall not tell you.” ‘‘Then let me tell you.” “You do not know?” “Don't I? ons, ae ‘Well, I shall guard you safely for him; but, . — Bis —— -
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*« =a =e _ face, which was discernible, “ No.” ‘* Did you not have a visit from an old gentle- man this afternoon?” The girl was silent, but she started at the question. ‘* Answer me,” “ What has that to do with my husband?” “Do you think I cannot penetrate his dis- guise?” **Do you know my husband?” ‘* Yes,” ‘“‘T do not believe you.” “I do, for I sailed with him, started a mutiny, and he had me, as he believed, shot, and thrown overboard, ‘““We were lying in the Mississippi river at the time, and he was captain of a trading schooner, which I intended to capture and turn into a pirate craft. “But I was only sightly wounded, swam ashore, and swore to be avenged against Boyd Benedict, should he again cross my path, “T had not met him since until to-day, when I saw him land yonder on the shore and go to the arbor and join you.” '* And you say you penetrated his disguise?” “I knew the old man, as he pretended to be, was none other than my old enemy.” ‘* Where were you?” **Tn the magnolias here.” “Tt was strange you did not then attempt to avenge yourself upoo him,” sneered the girl. “J thought of it; but [had had ill-fortune enough, and wanted to make no mistake, especially as I was here under Captain Delban- co’s orders, and had hopes of making a big start to-night on the road to fortune.” “ Aud you teli me that my husband is my foe?” “6 T do.” ‘*'You cannot prove it.” **Would you call the man who killed your father your friend?” **Oh, no! how could I?” ‘* Well, Boyd Benedict killed your father this very afternoon.” “It is a lie! yes, in your false teeth I throw the lie, Oscar Osmond!” The girl drew herself up to her full hight, and raised her manacled hands before the man, upon whom she glared with indignant rage, for having been with her husband that very after- noon, and knowing that he was then at sea, she felt that the charge made against Boyd Bene- dict was false. The one who made it, however, was unmoved by ber words, F He seemed to expect just such an outburst eect her part, and stood gazing upon her, as she faced him in her fury, After a moment of silence he said: “You throw the lie'into my teeth, my prett Clotilde, but you will have to eat your words when I give you proof,” ‘*-You have no proof,” “T have.” “T defy you.” yg A e took ber arm as he spoke and led her further into the magnolia pet A few paces, and in an open space they came upon a meng a ie F Throwing herself by tbe side of the form, Clotilde bent over and took one glance into the i from the starlight penetrating through an opening in the trees, ** Yes! oh yes! it is my father, and, accursed villain! you are his murderer !” and Clotilde sprung to ber feet and confronted the man who ge made the same charge against Boyd Bene- ct, CHAPTER XII. THE CRUISER, AMONG the American vesseis-of-war, that cruised in oe Gulf, ees pdinount waters, there was no craft more trim, fleeter, or me ee ees hea OGL saucy look That little vessel, of sixty tons, had had a most remarkable career; first’ belon ing to a band of smugglers, she had been i from id by a young yachtsman, a planter on the coast. : Recaptured by smugglers, the Sea Owl had been again retaken by ber former captor, to be ut out from her anchorage by pirates, and once more fallen into the hands of the gallant Boy Planter, whose services had gotten hima - middy’s commission from the Government. Fitting bis yacht out fully, with other mid- dies as officers, and a small but effective crew he had served as a Gulf Guard Gunboat, and The Indian Pilot, had done good service against sea outlaws of all kinds, even against the wreckers that infested the Bahamas. But love came in and won the young planter middy from his sea life, and he gave his vessel to his next officer in command, Midshipman Henry Herbert, a youth scarcely less daring and skillful as a commander than biniself. With a courage that was reckless, Midship- man Herbert had matched his schooner agaiost a pirate of double his size, with twice as many guns and treble bis crew, and though beating off the rover, be had been so severely handled that be had to put into port for repairs, and to get more men, While undergoing repairs he had given bis crew leave, all excepting a guard, and, unable to secure more mev at Pensacola, he had run short-handed to San Augustine, arriving there just prior to the scenes that open this story. It was this trim cruiser, the Sea Owl, that Captain Delbanco determined to seize, when re was disappointed in getting the TFiagless Schooner, cut out by Boyd Benedict. The Sea Owl lay at anchor up the harbor, and bad but ten men on board, with three officers, Upon the night in question, Captain Herbert, as the middy commander was called by cour- tesy, and oue of his officers, had gone on shore for a frolic, while four of the crew had been sent to the inns in the hope of picking up some seamen, for there was work to be done at sea for the little vessel. This left the Sea Ow] with but one officer and six men on board; but then, little danger was feared there in pert, The anchorage of the schooner that was cut out was far below that of the Sea Owl, so that her leaving the harbor had not been discovered; and the middy in charge was pacing the deck, smoking a cigarrito, and little dreaming of dan- ger, while his men were forward engaged in spinning yarns, Suddenly the sound of oars fell upon the ears of the middy, and he glanced in the direction from whence it came. Then be discovered two boats, one in ad- vance of the other, heading directly for the schooner, Still-he could not suspect danger, for all about him were vessels at anchor, the fort was not far away, and it was a common thing for boats to be going about the harbor. But as they came steadily on, and drew within kailing distance, he sung out: ‘* Boat ahoy!” ** Ahoy the Sea Owl!” was the response, in a deep voice. . ‘* What boats are those?” ** Men o’-war’s boats, sir, from the American sloop-o’-~ ar Dolphin, lyiog at anchor below. ‘*T bear dispatches, sir, to Midshipman Her- bert.” “Ay, ay! come alongside’” called out the middy; and two minutes after a man sprung to the deck, and without any warning of danger the middy was felled to the deck, while almost as quickly his amazed seamen were seized. “Bind and gag them, throw them into our boats alongside, and set them adrift!” came the stern order, and it was obeyed with an alacrity which only men accustomed to such work could do, ‘‘Now up with that anchor, and spread can- vas upon her. “The fort may open, if they suspect anythin wrong, but we must take our chances,” .sai Captain Delbanco, for he it was. o quietly had all been accomplished, with- out a loud word or a shot, that the crews of the merchant vessels lying near, suspected no wrong. : They knew that the Sea Owl was expecting to get a crew, and, seeing the boats run along- side, supposed that they contained the men just ae : hen the Sea Owl got up sail and glided away from her anchorage, they suspected that orders had come fora sudden move, and the drifting boats left in her wake they concluded bad been anchored out to await her return, When, after some time one of the boats drifted alongside of a brig, and the watch dis- covered the bound and gagged men in it, the secret came Out, and an alarm was given; but the Sea Ow] was three leagues away, Having so cleverly cut the little schooner out, Captein Delbanco ran down opposite the Magnolia Point and laid to, going ashore him- self in a boat, Springing out upon the beach be sought to find Osmond and his fair prisoner. But they were nowhere to be seen. 47 Searching the grove he suddenly came upon a prostrate form, ‘‘ Ha! there has been deadly work here. s Heaven! it is the constable, and dead! ‘* What does it mean, and where can Delbanco and the girl be? ; ‘Well, much as I would like the man for my atts and the girl for my wife, I dare not linger ere, ‘But another time I will solve this mystery, and gain my ends, ( ‘*Ho, lads! pull bard for the schooner,” he cried, as be sprung into kis boat, and reaching the vessel, as she once more sped away seaward, he muttered: ‘““Now to find that Pirates’ Island and the treasure it holds, and | am the richest man on earth, CHAPTER XIII, THE REPENTANT PADRE. HENRY HERBERT was a dashing, handsome ‘youth of eighteen, His father had been a naval officer, and the ~ boy bad been reared on board a vessel-of-war, and when but twelve, the sailors were wont to call him their Boy Captain, and say that he knew more about a ship from keel to truck than any officer that walked the quarter-deck. A favorite with the officers, he was the idol of the crew, and was treated with a respect equal to that shown to bis father. | ‘ In bis service with bim, Midshipman Brandt. the Planter Commander of the Sea Owl, ba found him a most useful aide and stanch friend, and had turned the little schooner over to him, with perfect confidence in his ability, It was therefore with the utmost chagrin that Henry Herbert reached the shore to find the whole barbor a scene of excitement over the cutting out of his vessel. He had just learned from his few seamen ashore, that they had been successful in finding a number of sailors to serve with him. In almost dismay the youth stood on the shore, his brother middy and few men about him, listening to the story told by an old tar who had just landed. ‘“* And where is Mr, Rule and the six men?’ he asked, . ‘(On board that pretty brig, Sea Cloud, that is setting all old sailors wild with her taut look,” answered the man, and then he added: “There come the boats now.” Just then two boats were seen spproaching the shore, and as they landed, out sprung Mid- shipman Rule and his six fellow-unfortunates. ‘* Ah, Captain Herbert, I was just going to seek you, but I see you have heard the story,” “Yes—in part. But tell me how it bhap- pened,” 4 In a few words the young middy told his commander of the clever capture, adding; ‘*The pirate chief gave me a blow that stun- ned me, and when I came to myself I was cn board the brig Sea Cloud, which is the prettiest raft I ever saw, not excepting the Sea Owl, and I have been trying to negotiate with her cap'nin for her.” ‘A good idea Rule, but what is she?’ ‘“A brig of ninety tons only, sharp as a razor, gaunt asa hound amidships, with sticks as tall as steepies, and spars tlet can spread an acre of canvas.” * A good description, surely; but what trade is she in?” ‘A fancy trader, owned by her captain, who has four guns on board and a crew of fift: em men, ‘He is a fancy fellow, has rigged his craft up as trim as a ball-room belle, and will sell ber for cash, but wants a price enough to buy a line of-battle ship.” ‘ ‘Will be not drop in his price?” “Not he, sir, for be loves gold, and is, as I said, a fancy trader, for I do not beleve he would allow anything in bis cargo that would soil the deck or hold. ‘He says his craft is fleeter than a tornado, and can ride out & hurricane, while be built ber for his own use, and will part with her at his own price only.” ‘* And what does be ask for her?” * A clear thirty thousand.” ‘‘ Phew! but if our old commander, Midship- man Brandt, was here, we could get her, for he is rich and would have her at any price; but where could we arm her, if we got her?” “The fort at the monastery above, bas a number of fine ship guns, pivots- and how- itzers,” said Midshipman Rule, “True, for I saw them the other day; but then I am poor, and cannot raise the money, se we can ouly sail for New Orleans and report i ) +t pa Tee ahi ic tt). Ni ie aa rai eM Asa = yf -
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~ ® ‘ 8 The Indian Pilot. trust your coming will bring good luck to the Sea Cloud.” ‘‘T hope so, my son, and pray so; but we have disturbed you by a visit at this late hour, on account of an unfortunate occurrence in our harbor this evening, of which Ri know.” ‘* Yes, sir, the cutting out of the Government cruiser Sea Owl.” ‘To that I refer, and I would be glad to have your vessel start in chase.” ‘* My brig, father, is but a mercbant craft. “She is my personal property, and I cruise in her from port to port, picking up odds and ends here and there, and trading in them, ‘The Sea Cloud has teeth to bite only when attacked; but she depends upon her speed, and is no sea bulldog.” ‘* Yet she is for sale?” **Not exactly; but, as I said to an officer to- night, I will sell ber if 1 get my price.” ** And that is how much?” “Thirty thousand dollars down,” ‘“*T will take the brig at that sum, captain,” quietly said the padre. The seaman looked surprised, but asked: ‘When do you wish her, father?” our-loss and ourselves to the admiral,” respond- ed Midshipman Herbert dejectedly. ** My son, let me speak with you a moment.” The voice was low, deep, and by no means unpleasant, and the speaker wasa padre, in the full cloth of bis holy calling. He had joined the little crowd, apparently unseen, and had heard all thac hgd passed. He now addressed Midshipman Herbert, who crossed himself devoutly, and followed the padre a few paces apart, “My son, you were the commander of the little schooner, which tae pirates cut out from her anchorage an hour ago?” “Yes, father.” “Tt was a clever capture upon their part.” “Tt certainly was, father.’ “You desire to give chase and recapture _your vessel?” “Oh! if I could only do so, sir.” **'You can.” _ “That is impossible, sir, for there is but one vessel that I can get, and she is set at the price of thirty thousand dollars, and I am poor, and the Government commandant here can give me no authority for her purchase,” “T can though.” in gold right ‘You?’ and Henry Herbert fairly started ** At once.” with surprise at the words of the padre. ‘** And the money?” Surely a priest could not be idly making such ‘Shall be ; i paid as soon as I goto the monas- an assertion, that he could get the brig for Sy him, he thought, and not mean it, “The brig is for sale, my son, and though the price is large, I will get her for you, while I will also allow you to bave the guns in Fort Ramon, which belongs to the monastery of that name,” continued the priest. ‘But can you do this, father?” asked Henry Herbert incredulously. **T promise oely what I can fulfill, my son.” “It is remarkable, father, that you do this for tery, Ramon ‘The brig is yours, padre.” “No, she is bought as a Government vessel for this young officer, and he will sail in her at once, and I wish the papers of sale made out to him.” ** As you please, sir.” “Now, my son,” and the padre turned to Henry Herbert, ‘‘go ashore and get your men, and I will see if I cannot get the captain here to persuade his crew to accompany: you, and then you will have force enough, and he will also send me to the monastery and bring me back, will yeu not, sir?” ** With pleasure, father,” was the smiling re- sponse, Henry Herbert could find no words to thank the padre, and hastily departed to collect a crew, leaving the holy man on board the Sea Cloud. When he had left the cabin, the captain of the brig said quickly: “Ts not this a sudden change of plan, senor?” “ee Yes,” “T do not exactly understand it, to be de- prived of my command, after I have spent months in having this vessel built for you.’ ‘*T will tell you, that circumstances have oc curred to wholly change my life, and which forced me to become what you now see me. “My elegant home I have turned into a monastery, and I have put on the gown of a padre, intending to so remain. ‘*Tsent you to Baltimore to have this vessel built, expecting to use her and make you her captain; but I shall give you the money to buy or build another, to carry out my plans, if oc- casion arises for so doing. “ Are you satisfied?” ‘* Wholly so, senor.” “Then give the brig into the hands of the midshipman upon his return, and order your crew to go with him. ‘To-morrow come to me and get your money and go your way until I need you. “Should I never call upon you, it will be be- cause [ have determined to remain as I am, and you will have been well paid,” ‘*T am content, Senor Padre,” : “And I,” and the padre left the brig, having given orders that she should be hauled along- side of the monastery fort, and take what guns her young commander needed, Soon after Henry Herbert returned with two- score good men, and with those belonging to the brig, felt that he was weil equipped. The padre he did not see, but the captain of the brig had hauled the craft alongside the fort, and his men were getting the guns on board. But he relinquished his command to the mid- dy, and went ashore, and so rapidly did the new crew work, that before dawn the Sea Cloud was flying seaward like an arrow in chase of the captured Sea Ow), ‘I do it for myself, my son, as well as for justice. “Time was when I was a very wicked man. **T accumulated riches, and made Ramon villa my home; but I changed my career, and am now a padre, the superior of the Monastery Ramon, and this very night you shall own the brig, and place the guns upon her, that you may go in chase of your schooner, ‘“*T am repentant now, my son, for the sins of my past, and I wish to do good in the world. “Come, I will get in your boat with you and go out to the brig.” CHAPTER XIV. THE SEA CLOUD SETS SAIL, Tue brig Sea Cloud had not been over-rated by Midshipman Rule. She bad glided into the harbor some days be- fore under easy sail, and won the admiration of even landsmen by ber beauty of outline. Tbey had not seen her under sail in a spank- ing breeze; but if she was not a flyer then her looks belied her. Her capstan sockets were brass-mounted, the binnacle was of solid metal, and all the mount- ings likewise, while all were burnished brightly and shone like gold. Her decks were as white as snow, her spars slender and exceedingly long, her masts tower- ed high in air, and ber bowsprit shot far out over her razor-like bows, Four broadside guns were her only armament, two to a side, with space for a third and fourth Sevctly amidships and upon the forecastle and rn. Her crew were neatly attired in white duck nts, blue shirts and red caps, and were a score n number, But one quarter-deck officer was on board, and he was commander and mate as well. He was a perfect dandy in attire, young, and with the air of one who was a brave fellow and good seaman in spite of his fancy appearance, This person sat alone in his cabin at the time the boat came alongside bearing the padre and Midshipman Herbert. It was against the brig that the boats bad drifted with their bound prisoners, and the young middy and men had been taken on board and kindly c:red for. The boat was promptly hailed, and then per- mitted to come alongside, the padre and the middy boarding, and after a short delay being admitted to the cabin, The captain arose politely as his guests enter- ed, and bade them be seated, while he called to @ negro servant toset forth wine and refresh- ments, saying pleasantly: - “This is an honor, father, which my brig has mot before had—a visit from a priest, and I _ CHAPTER XV. THE VOW IN THE MAGNOLIAS. I WILL row return to the time when Clotilde bebeld the form of ber father, lying among tbe magnolias. In her frenzied grief she had turned upon Os- | car Osmond, accusing kim of being the mur- derer, and, although he was innocent of the charge, he cowered beneath the accusation, for he saw that the girl was wild with fury. Hers was a gentle nature, until aroused, and then a tigress was not more fierce, an Indian more revengeful. As the two stood there, the man shrinking back, the girl leaning forward, her manacled hands pointed toward him, and her father lyin at her, feet, the scene was a thrilling one, an tragic in the extreme. Though night, the stars shone brightly, and just there was an opening in the trees, through which their light penetrated. ” But suddenly came a sound which caused the two thus standing to start. It was a low moan, and then the sound of a name, spoken in a husky voice: ** Clotilde !” “Father! thank God you are not dead,” and the girl threw herself upon her knees by the side of her parent. An instant of silence, and then came in almost a whisper: ** Not dead, my child, but dying.” ‘No! no! father.” ‘Yes, Clo’, I will last for only a few moments more. ‘Tt is strange that I bave lived thus long; but Ihave heen powerless to move, and have felt the life slipping from me, and feared that you would not know the secret of my death.” “‘T know it now, father, and that man shall hang for this act. ‘““Do you hear, Oscar Osmond? I say hog shall bang for this murder!” she cried excitedly. ‘Speak, old man, and say that 1 am not guilty of this deed,” cried Oscar Osmond, com- ing forward, : ut the dying man’s hands rested upon the manacles upon bis daugbter’s wrists, and he felt that ber clothing was all wet. ‘* What is this, Clo’? You in irons? ‘*Great God! what does it mean?” Could she tell him, dying as he was, that she had determined to deceive him, and fly from him with her pirate husband? No, she would not, could not do that, so she said in a low tone: ‘‘Never mind me, father.” ‘*-Yes, tell me what these irons mean?” he said almost sternly. ‘‘Well, sir, I was bin oe by Delbanco, whom you had in your employ, and he left this man to guard me, while be is trying to cut out the little cruiser up the harbor and turn her into a pirate.” : ‘‘Oh God! this must not be! quick, cuild, fly to the town and inform the officials—go, do not mind me,” and the dying man tried to rise, but fell back exhausted. ‘Father, I will not leave you.” ‘*No, you cannot go, for you are my pris- oner,” calmly said Oscar Osmond, ‘* Your prisoner! Never! for I will die here by my fatber’s side first. ‘‘No! no! I will not die, but live to avenge you, my poor murdered father, and I swear to you, by all that is holy, that I shall bave your murderer, Oscar Osmond there, hans in atone- ment for your death.” , The dying man st rted, and said in vones that were hardly audible: ‘Child! “Clotilde! you aré wrong, for Os- mond is not my murderer.” ‘He is not? Then in God’s name who is, for he shall die, be he whom he may?” and Clotilde spoke with a vehemence that was appalling. _ ‘*Who is the murderer?” she cried again, bending over her father. ‘* Boyd Benedict,” was the low answer. ‘‘Hal ha! ba! now you bave your words back in your teeth, Clotilde, when you know that spoke the truth,”-said Oscar Osmond exult- aptly, ‘Father, I do you mean it? ‘“‘TIs Boyd Benedict your murderer?” hoarsely asked the girl, “ec Yes,” ‘*My husband?” “Yea”? } ; “The man whom I trusted, loved to idola- r 9” f Yes, he drove his knife into my bosom.” * When?” “This afternoon, when I met him here, and he was going to see you, for I had his letter to And, his hand stained with your blood, your life upon his conscience, he came to me. “ Ob! but he shall die for this, husband though he be of mine,” and she raised her ma hands and continued: ‘‘ Hear my words, oh Heaven!” & - . a ty ee ai ne . eee Se ih, a l,l OE, gi - “ : _ P A é ce ae i j ‘ee < , . . \ ’ \ i. y f + . : ; as t ee ae Se OF a ER ee ET TRAE RELY TE C28 SARA Se ee ene : SR
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xf The Indian Pilot. A moment after she turned to her father once more. But the constable was dead, and Boyd Bene- dict had his life upon bis hands. CHAPTER XVI. PASQUAGOULA. “Your father is dead, Clotilde.” F Oscar Osmond saw that the spark of life had at last flitted away, and so addressed the young girl. “Silence, sir! leave me alone with my dead, without the sound of your voice to make my grief greater! “You forget that I have a charge to hold, and cannot leave you.” “ But do you mean that you will seek revenge against Boyd Benedict?” ~ cdo,” “But you love him.” ‘*T did; but my atom of love has turned to hatred now.” “But be is afloat now, in a fleet craft, and with a gallant crew at his command,” “T will hunt him down,” ** You are only a girl,” “But have a woman’s hate, and a man’s courage.” * Clotilde?” ** Well.” “Suppose I tell you that I will aid youto find Boyd Benedict?” “Well, sir?” “Tf I show you the way, if I run him to earth for you, will you be my wife?” She turned upon him like a fury, and seemed about to give vent to a burst of passionate words; but checking herself she said calmly: “Are you a man to insult me over the dead bis Soe my murdered father?” ‘You are severe, and I seek to be just. “I love you, and will devote my life to you. “Listen, while I tell you that! have joined Captain Delbanco for a purpose, “That purpose was that I might seize his ves- sel, as soon as I had won the men to my cause, and in it go in search of a certain island. “That island, it is said, a vast treasure is buried on, that were the fruits of the pirate bet fi i piracies long ago. “Somehow the rumor has gone abroad about this Treasure Island, and there will be many searchers for it, for Ido not believe any one knows, exactly where it is, “eT know, however, that it lies in the Baha- mas, and is diamond-shaped, and 1 feel confi- dent I can find i», “With you I will share the treasure when I find it, and we will hunt down Boyd Benedict, for I owe him a grudge too, and would gladly see bim hang at the yard-arm. “* What say you now, Clotilde?” “That you go on a chimerical voyage, after gold you Will never find, and are simply trying to buy me with promises.” “But I will tell you more, to prove my th. “ There is an Indian Pilot whom I have heard of, that knows just where lies this island, and know his haunts, so that we will seek bim, and have him go with us,” “Where is your vessel?” ‘“‘T intended to seize Delbanco’s.” ie . risk is too great.” “Then we will ” te Where? secure another vessel. _ From the Reef Pirates,” _ And your crew?” “The Reef Pirates will serve as such,” “ Ah! I thank you for telling me where I can et the aid I needed, and for this purpose I led you on, said Clotilde with a sneer, . Then you refuse to go with me?” “JT do, and furthermore, I shall inform Cap- tain occ egeg of the traitor he bas for his lieu- tenant. “Never! for you shall go with me,” and the man stepped toward her. But quick as a flash she drove her manacled bands directly into his face, and the blow felled him to the ground, while, with a cry of joy and with the speed of a deer, she bounded away through the forest. At first ber steps were turned toward her own home; but suddenly she stopped short and stood trembling, as she gazed at the twinkling light in the little cottage, ‘No, no! I cannot go there—not there. My lips can never tell my mother that my husband —the one she warned me against, and he whom my father said would some day die with a rope about his neck—took the life of the dear old Man who lies in yonder woods. “No, I will go elsewhere; yes, I’ll go to the - people whom that man told me of—the Reef rates,” Slowly she turned away and penetrated deep- er into the forest; while Oscar Osmond, half- Chow by the blow he had received, arose to his eet. Gazing about him he could nowhere see his cSnurey and he muttered through his shut teeth: : ‘She has escaped me!” Then he made a short search, but it was fruit- less, and he again said: ‘*Delbanco will kill me if*I tell him she es- caped, and if I remain here she will alarm the neighbors, and they will hang me sure, ““T will leave at once; and there is but one course left for me, and that is to go to the haunts of the Reef Pirates and ally myself with them,” So saying, he made bis way rapidly to the shore, sprung into the canoe that he had come there in, and which he had hidden in the bushes, and paddled swiftly away down the coast, little dreaming that the girl bad formed the same intention to seek the Reef Pirates, and was then walking through the forest by paths which she believed would take her to the deso- late place she sought. And thus through the long hours of the night she held on her way, tired out, suffering physic- ally and mentally, until at dawn she came out into an opening in which stood a small farm- house. Then she knew that she had lost her way, and instead of going further into the depths of the forest she bad come out in the borders of civili- zation. But she could go no further, and then across her mind came the thought: “I left my poor father lying there in the magnolia grove, with no one te know his fate, I will at once seek the dweller in yonder cottage, and send bim to town with the tidings.” She hurried .on to the cottage, and as a man approached ber, hastened to te/l her story. hen she sunk in a swoon at his feet. CHAPTER XVII. JUST IN TIME, WHEN Clotilde arrived at the farm-house she was in that condition of nervousness and pros- tration that found relief in unconsciousness, When she recovered, she found herself in kind hands for the housewife knew just what to do, and had done it in a motherly way, They were poor people, but with kindly hearts, and while the farmer had gone off to town, his wife had devoted herself to the stran- ger. It was late at night when the good man re- turned, and as Clotilde was asleep he would not disturb her; but, with the morning he sought her ee ane ty ‘“ Well, missy, I went to towm yesterday.” “And did you tell them that the constable lay dead among the magnolias on the Point be- low the town? eagerly asked the young girl. No, missy, I didn’t tell ’em what they knew.” rh Ah! they knew it then?” Yes, missy, somebody had found the body, and with it one whom they arrested.” “Tt was Oscar Oneontt and 1 suppose they believe him to be the murderer. ‘Oh! what a chance is this to avenge myself upon him.” The last words were not said aloud. Yes, missy, there were some young hun- ters that found the body, just at dawn, and near it stood the one they arrested. ‘He started to walk away, but they halted him with their guns, and then he showed fight, and they shot him,” ** Ha! did they kill him?” “No, missy, but they wounded him, and run on him; but he killed one o’ them before he was captured, “Then they tied him and took him off to town and threw him into prison, and it was well for him they did, as the townspeople wanted to string him up.” ‘* Did he not say that he was innocent of the murder?” “Yes, missy, but he was caught near the body and that settled it.” *“ And my mother?” “ She was taking on fearful about the death o’ your father, missy, and because folks said as how you had been kidnapped. * But, as I saw that they had found the body, and your mother was so distressed I concluded to use my own judgment and say nothing about what you told me, but to come back and let you know how matters stood.” ‘**T am glad that you did so, for now I can re- main in hiding for awhile; but do you think that they will hang Oscar Osmond?” ‘“ Who is he, missy?” “The man they arrested near my r fa-~ ther’s body, and suspect of being his mur- derer?” ‘“They’ll hang the Injun, missy; but that you called him was not his name.” ‘“The Indian?” asked Clotilde, in surprise. “Yes, missy. It was an Injun they found there.” ‘* Indeed! mond,” ‘*No, missy; it was an Indian chief they call Pasquagoula. “His tribe was once a great one, but there are but few left, and his village was massacred — some years ago by the Reef and he has been on the war-path after them ever since. ? ‘Folks say he has kilt many a one since, and I guess he has, for he bas a canoe with sails, I thought it was that man Os- irates, I believe, that he cruises about in along the shores, and they tell how no man knows the waters better than what be does,” ‘*T have heard of the Indian, and I am sorry that they suspect him of being my father’s mur- derer.” “ And he'll bang for it, too, missy; but then he’s only an Injun.” ‘He shall not die for a crime of which he is not guilty. ‘‘How far is it from here to town?” asked Clotilde, quickly. ry ‘« By road, ten miles, missy; then you can go to the bayou and take a s iff, and in half an hour be in the Gulf, aud it is then but two leagues along the shore.” “Have you a skiff you can let me have?” ‘““T will take you there, missy.” “Thank you, sir, and we will start at once, for I must not remain away when another’s life is in danger for a crime he did not com- mit,” The farmer seemed to feel that this was the best course for Clotilde to pursue, as did also his wife. They both considered that there was some deep mystery in the death of the constable, the flight of the maiden, and there being another man mixed up in the affair, ' Kind-hearted though they were, they did not wish to be drawn into the mysterious affair, and were greatly relieved when Clotilde spoke of going, for it would not make it necessary for them to make known what she bad told them. The skiff was soon ready, a kindly farewell was spoken, and the farmer headed down the bayou, rowing a strong stroke, while the maiden sat at the tiller, A row of little over a mile and the open water was reached, and sail was set. Away sped the little skiff under a brisk breeze, and late in the afternoon they landed near the cottage of the dead constable. Gathered there Clotilde saw a large number of people, and they were moving toward Mag- nolia Point, evidently under some great excite- ment. ‘‘Good-by, missy,” cried the farmer, as Clo- tilde sprung on sbore and darted up the hill, But she did not hear him, or hearing, did not heed, and suddenly confronted the excited crowd, . They were all men whom she knew, and who knew her and they started back as she suddenly appeared in their midst. er hands were still manacled, for the farm- er bad been unable to remove the irons, and her face was white as though life bad left her. Her clothes _ been dried by the good farm- er’s wife, but were wrinkled, torn and soiled, woe her long hair hung unconfined down her ack, With her manacled bands stretched forth to- ward the crowd, she cried sternly: ‘“What means this excitement before the house of the dead, and what are you going to do witb that poor man?” The one she referred to was a tall, superbly- formed Indian of perhaps forty-five, His face was bold, resolute, clear-cut and fear- less, and bis eyes flashed back defiance at those about him. His left arm hung bleeding by bis side, and there was a gash upon his forehead, evidently made by a blow from a pistol-barrel, : He was clad in buckskin leggins, his body was bare, and he worea coronet of feathers upon bis head, while upon his broad breast was painted an anchor in red, About him were a rough set of the towns- people, the very ones who had had most cause to
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> 10 The Indian Pilot. fear the dead constable whose death they now sought to avenge. About the Indian’s neck was a rope, and the crowd had hold of it, leading him toward the magnolias, At the sight of Clotilde the crowd fell back, and in answer to her stern words, one said: ‘* Miss Clotilde, this man murdered your fath- er; but in the name o’ Neptune, what has hap- pened to you?” “That man did not murder my father, so re- lease bim at once,” was the response. ‘* He was found by the constable’s body, miss, over in the magnolias, and he resisted arrest and killed Hank Green.” ‘* He was innocent and did right to resist.” “Innocent?” cried the crowd in chorus. ‘Yes, the man who killed my poor father cut out the Flagless Schooner last night from ber anchorage and is now far atsea, but not beyond my revenge, for I shall bunt him down. ‘“*T wes with my father when he died, and would have been also at sea, a prisoner to a pirate, had I not made my escape and wandered all night in the forest. ‘¢Tbhat Indian bas done no wrong, and I shall set him free.” As she spoke she advanced and took the rope from about his neck, and the Indian was free, But she saw that he suffered greatly, and said in a kindly tone: ‘*Come, Pasquagoula, come into my cottage and I will see that you have a bed to lie on and that vour wounds are cared for.” “No, let Pasquagoula go to the woods. He thank pale-face maiden heap much, but will ‘No, you are in no condition to go, so come,” and she led the way to the cottage, the crowd falling away before her, and tbe Indian slowly followed. ; ‘Your mother lies very ill, Clo’; but it will be a joy to her to know that you have come,” said a woman, meeting her, ‘“*T shall devote my life to her; but first let a blacksmith be sent for to rid me of these irons; and, Mrs. Dunning, please look after this poor Indian, who has been falsely accused, and have * Doctor Newell dress his wounds,” “*T will, child; but you go to your room and I will follow you. . ‘Leave the Indian to me,” and the good wo- man took Pasquagoula to his quarters, conduct- ed the doctor from the bedside of the sick wo- man to see him, and then sent for a smith to cut off the manacles from the wrists of poor Clo- tilde, who was pacing her little room the very picture of grief. CHAPTER XVIII. THE INDIAN FRIEND. SEVERAL weeks passed away, after the scene related in the last chapter. The schooner, under Boyd the Buccaneer had been several times beard of, from in-coming ves- sels which it.bad run down and robbed upon the high seas, and the captured cruiser, Sea Owl, ner Neg been reported engaged in the same work, The brig Sea Cloud, which had gone in chase, under her boy commander, Midshipman Henry Herbert, had returned to port once, unsuccess- ful in ber search, but after getting on board the necessary stores, she had again gone to sea to hunt down the stolen cruiser. There had been great excitement in the town, over the death of the constable, and ‘‘ Captain” Jonathan Jenks, who bad taken hischief’s place, was in a great quandary to solve the mysteries that were bovering over the murder in the mag- nolias. He kad been certainly sent on a wild-goose chase by Clotilde, the evening he left the schooner; but as the constable was dead, he could not find out whether the maiden was in the plot, or not, to seize the craft; bus be hada suspicion that way, and attempted to question her upon the subject. His attempt was a decided failure, however, and he mada up his mind not to try it again. All felt that Clo ilde knew more regarding her father’s death than. she would admit, and looked to Jonathan Jeiuks to find it out, and be looked wise and pretended to be fully posted, avd promised, in the proper time to give the secret to the public. ; He did not care to anger Clotilde, for he hoped some day to bang her husband, and by — making a widow of her, to make ber his wife. The constable had left a snug little L ativerit with a pile of money laid away, and Clotilde would of course inherit it, | Her mother had lingered between life and death for weeks, and then death had been the victor, Sbe had been much in the little churchyard, by the side of her busband, and Clotilde had re- turned to her desolate home. Pale, wan and desolate she looked; but she refused to be comforted, and insisted upon re- maining alone in ber little home. The Indian chief, Pa:quagoula, had received devoted attention at her bands, afid, skillfully eared for by the doctor, he had rapidly recov- ered from his wounds and one night, before the death of Clotilde’s mother, bad silently stolen away, leaving no word of thanks, and no clew as to bis whereabouts. Oscar Osmond Clotilde had not heard from since that fearful night in the magnolias, and what had become of him she could only guess, and she concluded that he bad joined Captain Delbanco upon his return and gone to sea with him. She did not doubt but that, in such a case, he would keep to his resolve to s-ize the schooner from his commander, and go upon the search for the Gold Island. Also, if he once got command of the craft, she felt assured that he would run insome night with the intention of capturing her, and this she determined to prevent. Her husband, she knew, had turned pirate, although he migbt be searching for the Gold Island also, and she feared that. he too might pay ber a visit. hough she was most anxious to meet him, and accuse him of murdering her father, at the same time ang revenge upon him, she did not wish to meet him when he would hold the advantage, Of course sbe knew not the circumstances of the meeting between her father and her hus- band; but the fact stood that the latter had killed the former, and sbe had it from dying lips, so could not doubt it, There was no palliation of the crime given by her father, and thus she accepted the deed inall its enormity. Delbanco she also felt that she had cause to fear, if he was not dethroned by Oscar Osmond, and with these dreaded dangers before her, Clotilde made up her mind that the little home would be no safe place for her. ‘No, no, I must depart from here, cnd go in the tracks of these men who would be on mine, if they knew I was in their power.” She left the little bome as she spoke, and wended her way to the little churchyard, where rested her parents, both murdered, she felt. by the act of Boyd the Buccaneer, for her mother had died of a broken heart she well knew. lt was a quiet spot, with only tne church-bell to awaken its echoes, when calling the people to prayer, or an occasional funeral filing in by day to disturb its solitude, No one was in the little village of the dead, when she arrived, and she crossed the green sward to the newly-made graves of her father and mother. She had brought fresh flowers with her, and bess she placed upon the mounds with tender and. “ Alas! alas! Iam all alone now, and with no friend in the world,” she said, in quivering accents, as she knelt by the side of the graves. ‘‘No, Pasquagoula friend of pale - face The words fell upon ber ear so unexpectedly that she started to her fect in momentary alarm, as though aboutto fly from the spot. But she checked the impulse as she turned and beheld the Indian chief standing before her, and who repeated in his deep tones: ‘‘ Pasquagoula friend of pale-face girl now.” -CHAPTER XIX. PASQUAGOULA’S STORY. Ir Clotilde had wondered at the strange eon- duct of the Indian chief, in leaving ber home without a word of thanks, or even seeing her, after all ber kindness to bim, his coming to her there, in ber moment of Geep distress, and when she most needed a friend, was proof positive that hehad not forgotten her, or been unappreci- ative of what she bad done for bim. ‘You say you are my friend, Pasquagoula, and I thank you, for I am sadly in need of friendship now, when I am all alone in the world,” she said, rising from the graves and extending her hand to the red-skin. He passed quickly around to the opposite sice, and then grasped her hand across the graves, while he said in his deep tones: ‘Red skin offer hand of friend over grave, to pale-face maiden, it mean he be true friend forever.” “I believe you, Pasquagoula; but tell me, where have you been since you left the cot- tage?” “Been after big canoe; want maiden go with me.” “ Where?” The Indian was silent a moment, and then he said: ‘“ What name of pale-face maiden?’ ** Clotilde.” ‘“No good name for Indian; Pasquagoula cal! her Tear Eye.” “Tear Eye? Alas! it is strangely dob gk ate now, for my eyes are full of tears that well up from my beart continually. “But they must leave now, for I have work to do.” “ What work for Tear Eye?” ‘‘Do you see that grave?” and she pointed to her father’s. ‘* Yes, see bim.” ‘‘ Well, my father who lies there was killed by a man whom I intend to track to bis death?” ** Who he?” “He was my husband, and in killing my father be turned my love to hatred, and his acts placed my poor mother in her grave, too.” ‘‘Heap bad; but, where bad pale-face now?” ** At sea.” ‘““ Sailor chief” ae Yes.” ‘‘ Pasquagoula sail wing-boat too.” “1 have heard that you were a splendid sailor and knew all the waters and islands of the Gulf ” ‘*Krow heap.” ‘‘ Where do you live?” ‘‘On land, big water, anywhere, everywhere,” was the sorrowful response, ‘You are bomeless then, as I am?’ ‘Yes; but Pasquagoula have bome one time, and was young chief; but bad pale-face come and kill his people, burn his village, and leave him alone like Tear Eye. ‘But Pasquagoula take trail of bad pale-face and make it red, on Jand and big water too. He go here, there, ell where and kill his foe, ‘One time he nearly got kil), but good young brave come to help him and save bis life, “Then he go with young pale-face chief of wing-boat to pay bim for what he did for Pas- quagoula; but wing boat land at island where bad pale-face live and bave bright light to kill wing-boat on rocks, and Pasquagoula got made pale-face risoner. ; arr Bad pale-face escape and take Pesdeencrin, and tell him he know secret where Gold Island is, and must show them, or they kill bim, ‘“ Pasquagoula no ’fraid to die; but bad pale- face had kill bis people, and he want revenge, so tell them he take wing-boat to Gold Island. ‘‘Pasquagoula no fool, so don’t take wing- boat to Gold Island, but run on rock, and es- cape himself, for be swim like fish, : ‘He swim from island to island until he come to small wing-canoe he leave there lon time before. He take this and come back here.” ‘And what became of the crew you wrecked?” ‘* All die,” was the laconic response. Clotilde shuddered, but asked: “And the young pale-face chief of the wing- boat?” ‘“* He came here, Pasquagoula heer, find his sis- ier, and go ’way where Pasquagoula no find. im, ‘Ab! you refer to the young Senor Bonodel,. I guess?” ‘* Yes, that name.” ‘He found his sister, who had been stolen in. early childhood, the captive of wreckers, and | rescued ber.” ‘Tear Eye peak straight.” “Then be came here, gave his vessel, which wes known as the Fiagless Schooner, to the Government, end departed to live elsewhere with his sister.” ‘* Tear Eye know,” : ‘Yes, and it was that very vessel which my busband, the man who killed my father, stole and ran off to sea in.” ‘Yes; but don’t Tear Eye know where young chief?” , ‘No, nor any one else, for he wished to live where no one kuew him, he told my father.” ‘“Pesquagoula sorry, but will tell Tear Eye secret.” ‘What is it?” ‘* Will tell Tear Eye where can gold; make her rich, so rich.” “ Ah! if you would only help me to find Boyd Benedict, the slayer of my parents, for I care not for ricbes now,” sadly said the girl. ; ‘* Help ber do that.” ~ find plenty eat & fe \ » le . | m \4 » | & j > ’ : 7 if | > \4 Ik | ‘ % ia * i omy 1} \a le 1 # it ‘ ae He | ™ ee | j | = pes | |. vite —— Acs “is
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Fh & is at: } n \* ~ ole re e' ES one 7 (? me I4 Re eh * » | ~ to s 1 ‘ mol | ate t oe . } a ae —— eg ae pe a bundred people, half of ‘* But can you?” eagerly asked the girl. “Know big water heap good; know land and island too.” ‘“‘ But bow can we go?” “Get big boat,” “Tt will need seamen,” * Get plenty.” * Where?” ** Reef Pirates go,” “Ah! I bad forgotten them; but I will need @ vessel,” “*Get wing-boat, too—buy ’um.” “Ah, yes, I will sell my little home, and de- vote the money to my purpose.” ‘“No! Tear Eve don’t sell home, but keep for when bair grow like snow.” “But | must sell it to get the money to buy a vessel and ship a crew.” “Did not Pasquagoula say he Tear Eye friend?’ ‘* Yes, and I believe you.” “* Pasquagoula bave beads,” ‘‘Beaas will not bring gold, alas!” **Yes, heap good beads,” and the Indian took from some secret pocket a small buckskin bag. ** Hold hand.” The girl did as he directed, and he poured tho contents of the bag into her band, She uttered a cry of amazement, for they were not beads, but diamonds, rubies and em- eralds, CHAPTER XX. THE REEF PIRATES; A STRANGE scene broke upon the eyes of two rsons, as they glided up the dark waters of a agoon, penetrating into the Everglades of Florida. Moss hung upon all sides, trailing from tree- tops to earth and water, alligators disported lazily in the lagoon, birds with gorgeous plum- age flew hither and thither, and a darkness like unto twilight, although it was noonday, was upon the face of nature, so dense was the foli- age in that dread retreat. Suddenly a camp burst into view, It was situated upon a slight rise of ground upon the rigbt bank of the bayou, and avout it wasa network wall of poles, to keep back the monsters of the Everglades, A score of rude huts faced the stream, bow- ers made of foliage were along the bank, atford- ing retreats for a siesta, and behind an earth- work were half a dozen heavy guns, command- ing the lagoon, or bayou, for balf a mile below the ers." Just above the camp, a rude village, the bayou widened into a bay several acres in size, and here were anchored a dozen or more vessels, One of these was a large ship, her masts cut off, so as to allow her passage up the bayou, for in many places the tall trees arched over it, and were connected by masses of gray moss. The sbip, or hull, was anchored fore and aft across the stream and just at the entrance to the little bay, and from her broadside appeared half a dozen small guns, twelves and sixes in size. Beyond this floating battery were at anchor a brig, several schooners, half a dozen sloops, and two or more fishing-smacks, with small sail-boats. Two of the schooners and one of the sloops were armed with pivot-guns, mounted fore and aft, as though simply for the purpose of over- bau ng 4 prize or firing upon an enemy in pur- suit. The rest of the vessels were evidently prizes, On board the floating battery — the large ship’s bull—were visible a score ‘of men, gam- bling, smoking or asleep, as their mood suited them, and from one to three persons were visi- ble upon each of the other craft, For the camp, or village, could be seen fully whom were women were unarmed, and and cbildren, It was a strange, wild scene, there in the Everglades, and it was the haunt of the Reef ae pau thie wots nad 'y o far their retreat bad baffled thei i of all cruisers t> find, aud yei they ite pared to beat off a foe following them into their den, and with doubtless every chance of success, for no large vessel could get up the bayou, even with her topmasts off, no landing could be effected on either side, and the lit- tle fort and flouting battery effectually guarded the approach. So safe did they feel that the Reef Pirates only kept a lookout boat at the entrance to the bayou, a league below, and from it, upon the The Indian Pilot. approach of danger, a canoe could be sent up to warn the village. This guard-boat was wont to cruise about in easy reach of the bayou, or lie hidden in some snug retreat along the shore. But the canoe, which contained the two per- sons before referred to, had eluded the guard- boat, and boldly penetrated to the very village of the Reef Pirates. It was a long canoe, with considerable beam, evidently intended for a sea-boat, and carrying two single-stick masts and a bowsprit which could be shipped readily in a moment’s time. Her sails were of light material, and her masts were not very tall, but her booms and gaffs were long, giving considerable spread of canvas between her sticks,.which were set far apart. One person coall readily manage the canoe, set and take in her rig, and also urge it forward, when stripped, with a paddle. It was decked over, excepting aft, where was a narrow cockpit, with a seat upon either side, to serve asa bunk, and this could also be cov- ered by a stout canvas, which would prevent the little craft from filling when shipping heavy waves, ° The canoe was now stripped of her sticks and canvas, and was urged forward swiftly by a double paddle, held in the bands of a man seated amidships. The other person sat aft and held the tiller. "ai former was an Indian, the latter a young girl. In the two the reader cannot fail to recognize Pasquagoula, the Indian Pilot, and Clotilde, the beautiful young wife of Boyd the Buccaneer. It was a week after their meeting in the little graveyard, and their destination was the haunt of the Reef Pirates which lay before them. CHAPTER XXI, THE COMPACT, THE Reef Pirates did not discover the ap- roach of the canoe, until it was almost at the anding. Then a wild cry of alarm went up. But a glance showed that there were not a string of of men-of-war’s boats behind it, and it held but two occupants, and one of these a woman, The Indian, ney of the pirates knew, and also feared, for he had been their foe, and had been one they sought. Now he had eome voluntarily into their power! Holding in her hand a white flag, showing that she wished peace, Clotilde waved it, as the canoe reached the beach, and then sprung on shore. Hastening down to the landing were men, women and children, wild-looking and fierce- featured. Then, from the floating battery and other vessels of the fleet, anchored in the little bay were coming boats crowded with men and all armed, Ip was a dread momént for Clotilde; and especially-for the Indian; but she was pale, yet calm, and the red-skin seemed wholly un- moved by the commotion they had caused. Looking over the faces as she sprung ashore, Clotilde turned pleasantly and said: ‘*T have come to see your chief, and for your good, as well as my own, ‘«This Indian is my friend, and has been my pilot here.” “Yes, we knows him; he has been here he- fore, as there is graves over yonder on the hill to prove,” said a man grufily. ‘Well, he comes now, as I do, to be your friend. Where is your chief?” Just then a man came through the crowd and confronted the maiden, the pirates falling back to allow bim to pass. ‘‘T heard you ask for the chief. He stands before you, lady,” : He spoke in a well-modulated voice, was of commanding appearance, though he bad the face of one who would stop at no crime for his own advancement, \ He had evidently been reared among refined people, but his evil nature had brought bim down to herd with the lowest of the low. He was dressed in a fancy sea garb, wore a gold-hilted sword and pistols. ** Are you he whom men call the Pirate Com- modore, sir?” asked Clotilde quietly. ““T am Conrad the Pirate, Clotilde, and am glad that you have come to seek your uncle’s rotection, now that your father, my sister’s amented husband is dead,” eo: & y gh my uncle?” cried Clotilde, starting ack, ‘Oh, yes, did you not know the fact?” “No, and I cannot believe it.” ‘You shall have proof, then; but, why are you here, may I ask, if not to seek your uncle’s protection, now that you are an orphan, for I heard of your sad bereavement?” ‘**l am here to seek your aid, sir; but do you mean that you are indeed my uncle?” asked the mystifled girl. ** Your mother was Sophy Conrad, was she es ae > ‘You have doubtless heard her speak of her wild brother, Will?” . ‘*Yes, he ran off and went to sea, and I heard had been hanged as a pirate.” ‘‘Tt was rot so, for he stands before you; but I would have been had not your father recog- nized who I was and allowed me to escape, and I have never forgotten him for it. ‘But come, here you are welcome, Clotilde. But, why have you with you one of the worst. foes of my band?’ ‘‘He is my friend, and comes as such, and he it was who suggested that I should come to you,” ‘ ‘“* And why have you come, Clotilde?” / ‘*To seek your aid,” **'You shall have it.” f ‘‘] will pay handsomely for the service of yourself and the men I need.” : ‘‘ My services have already been paid for, in all that I do for you, «81 told you that I owe. my life to your father.” t “Still you are not averse to accepting gold where you can readily earn it?” , ‘Not at all, for I live to get gold, and we live: in daily danger of death that we may make our fortunes; but, what is it that you would have me do?” oi, *“ Have you a good vessel?” x ; ‘Come to my quarters, and we will talk in private,” “The Indian must go with me.” . ‘As you please; but be must be careful, or some of my men may kill him.” ** Can you not control them?” “CMe”? ‘Then do go, or you will live and die a Reef Pirate, when I have it in my power, through that Indian, to make you as rich as a king.” ‘¢ Whew! I have heard that the red-skin is. the only man alive who knows of a secret that will bring untold wealth.” ; ‘* And he is my friend, so protect him.” “T will,” and tarning to the crowd Conrad. the Pirate Commodore called out in a loud voice; ‘Hear all! this Joune lady shall be as a daughter to me, and she bas come to seek our aid, so is our guest. ‘‘The Indian is her friend, and also our guest, and with my own hand will I kill the man, wo-- man or child who does him harm!” Then ‘he called to Clotilde and the Indian to: follow, and led the way to his quarters, remark-- ing quietly: ‘‘ Now, my coild, there is a compact between, us, and I will not be the one to break it.” , f yids CHAPTER XXIT. ALLIED WITH OUTLAWS, THe ‘ quarters” of the Pirate Commodore, . as he called bis abiding-place when ashore, con- sisted of a large cabin witb two rooms. It was raised some feet above the ground, bad’ sbip’s furniture, and a hammock for a bed, It was by no means uncomfortable, and about . it was an air of rude luxury. ‘*There, Clo’, that shall be your room, for I. only use it for my valuable booty, and the red-. skin shall have a hammock swung in here with me, ' ‘IT was about to eat dinner when you came, which my cook has ready for me, so we will just dispose of that and then talk business,” He led the way out beneath a thatched roof, where was spread a table for dinner, and the. service upon it was very little like camp life, for it consisted of the finest china and silver. A negro had cooked a tempting meal of fish, venison, bread, potetoes and coffee, and a. flagen of wine, with silver goblets stood near. “ Be seated, Clo’, and you also, Pasquagoula, “Come, you black sea-borse, burry up and set extra plates bere,” and Conrad turned to the. negro, who grinned all over his face and obeyed, while he muttered: “Massa, pretty eettle lady an’ red Injun nig-- ger all eat tergedder—he! he! he ng" The meal was discussed with a ‘relish by Clo-. tilde, and eaten by the Indian with a gusto ag« ‘
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12 though he thought he was revenging himself upon bis enemies by devouring their food. After dinner the three sat down for a talk, while the Sea Horse, as his master called the negro, finished up the repast, wine and all, and tike a satiated alligator, lay down to sleep through the warm hours of the afternoon, “Have you a good vessel?” again asked Clo- mee: when they sat down in the cool shade for a talk. ‘I bave several good craft for my work, which is cluse in-shore, as you may know.” “7 wish a craft for deep-sea*work,” **T am sorry I cannot oblige you with one,” ‘* We must get one, then.” ‘* Yes, if the work is worth it.” “Tt 1a,” “‘T have a man here, I think can secure us a craft; but he is a new fellow, only came to usa vated weeks ago, and I am not sure I can trust im, ‘‘ He has lately come from San Augustine, be tells me, and had arranged to cut out a craft a Captain Delbanco, but was deserted by im. : “What is this man’s name?’ asked Clotilde quickly. * Oscar Osmond.” *‘T half-believed it; and he is in your camp?” “He is at the mouth of the bayou on the guard-boat, on duty; but that reminds me, how did ae get in unchallenged?” “I came in very easily, for Pasquagoula knew bow.” ‘Ab, yes, I forgot that the Indian was with ‘you, for he can go anywhere a snake can, I verilv believe; but do you know this Osmond?” **You shall know,” and Clotilde told all she ‘knew of the man. Conrad listened attentively, a cruel smile playing about his lips the while, and when she ‘had finished her story he said: “So he wished revenge upon you, because you would not return his love, and intended to force you to become his wife, after he had kind- ly made a widow of you? ‘* Well, he deserves death for this; but be also intended to prove traitor to the man, Captain Delbanco, who trusted him, and who was mak- ing him bis first officer, and for this treachery che deserves another death, ‘Unfortunately, he can die but once in pun- ishment; but that ove death he shall suffer be- fore the rising of another sun.” ‘What do you mean?” asked Clotilde, nerv- ously. “Oh! simply, that I will prevent his proving a traitor to me and getting us all banged,” and calling to one of his officers, he ordered him to “go with a boat’s crew to the mouth of the bayou sand bring back the new man, Oscar Osmond a prisoner, adding: ‘Tf he resists, bring him back dead.” After the boat had departed, Conrad said: ‘* Now, Clotilde, we must decide upon some splan to get a craft; but can you tell me the na- ture of the service you wish doue?” , “Yes, it is to hunt down the murderer of my gpoor father.” “A work IJ will gladly aid you in,” “You know who he is?” “ec No ” se “*My husband,” ** Ab! I heard that you had run off and mar- ‘ried a wild, worthless fellow.” “T married a man who is known as Benedict, *the Buccaneer.” “No; I have heard something of him. ** So he it was that killed the constable?” “ce Yes,” _*You wish to make yourself a widow then by killing your busband?” ices if so you wish to have it, and I shall do it. “TI will do all lean to aid you; but why do _you wish a large vessel for the work?” ‘*He cut out the craft known as the Schooner, and is now cruising in it,” ‘* Well, I see that you have something more HE oa es, and he put to sea for one purpose,” “ What was ite” tpg “He intended to go in search of an island ~whereon is buried a pirate treasure,” “By Heaven! another one on the search; -but it will prove fruitless.” ‘* He bas with him an aged seaman known as “Old Mystery, who has been on the island, and swith this very Indian, on one occasion.” - af ay Neptune! then the treasure is his.” “No, for the seaman is childlike, and does mot know whether the island is one of the ~Chandeleurs, the Bahamas, or on the Florida coast; but he bas: drawings of the island from Flagiess The Indian Filot. two points, charts of the surroundings, and he may recall its locality in time.” ‘I hope not; but Benedict is now searching for it?” ‘Yes, and keeping his crew quiet by piracy during the search,” ** And you wish to run him down, capture his craft, and—” ‘“‘ Hang him for his crime,” she said savagely. ** And then?’ “Capture Captain Delbanco too, and avenge myself on him, for his cruelty to me.” ‘** You are revengeful, Clo’.” “T have had cause.” “*T do not blame you; but then?” ‘“‘My friend here, Pasquagoula, has promised to pilot me to the island and give me the trea- sure, so I will go shares with you.” ‘*Tt’s a bargain, by the Gods of War! Clo’, give me your hand, and consider me yours unto death, and the red-skin’s too, ‘Why, we'll be richer than England’s king, for thai treasure is said to be worth millions upon millions! ‘But, now to plan for a suitable vessel, for a good craft we must have, and I will stop this inshore work, and can put on board a crew of eighty good men, ** You shall be my first luff, the Indian here the pilot, and we’ll select our best fellows for officers,” - “But the vessel is to be gotten first,” said Clotilde. ‘* Yes, the vessel we must get.” ‘* Pasquagoula have thought,” said the Indian, speaking for the first time. ‘* Well?” and both turned toward him. ‘‘The schooner Sea Owl now among Keys, a Reef Pirates’ small wing-boats go and take im. “Right you are, Indian! I will run out my two schooners and four sloops, and pounce upon him like hounds upon a panther and worry bim to death, ““V'll get the fleet ready for the work, and you'll have your revenge upon Delbanco first, Clo’,” and Conrad departed to go on board his different vessels and prepared them for the at- tack upon the Sea Owl, which was then cruis- ing among the Keys some leagues from the pirates’ haunt in the Everglades, CHAPTER XXIII. THE TRAITOR’S FATE, It was nearly sunset when the boat, sent after Oscar Osmond, returned to the retreat of the Reef Pirates. The Pirate Commodore bad started his men at work, on the different vessels, getting them in readiness for the cruise, and was again at bis quarters talking to Clotilde and Pasquagoula, when the boat arrived. ‘*Go out of sigbt, Clo’, you and the Indian, while I have a talk with this fellow,” said Con- rad, as he saw the boat approaching. Soon the man came before bim. ; He looked pale and slightly anxious, for his arrest on board the guard-boat, gave him to un- derstand that the chief was angry with him about something. “ ‘ ‘*Senor Osmond, I sent for you for several reasons,” said Conrad, as he eyed the man sternly. ‘* Well, commodore, Iam here,” was the an- swer, in what was intended for an indifferent tone and manner, ’ “*T wish just to ask you, if you bad any idea of the nature of the cruise on which Delbanco was going?” ‘Yes, be intended to turn pirate, and at the same time search for the island on which it was vf one of Morgan’s treasure-ships had been ost. ‘* Did he know the island?” Ue by ‘‘No, he did not; but he intended to begin his search among the Florida Keys, as I under- stood it.” ‘Ts the Sea Ow! a very formidable vessel?” ‘She is a very fleet craft, remarkably so, and was a yacht at one time. ‘‘Her guns are the best, and her general armament perfect.” ‘*You were to be her first officer, I believe?” “Yes, Captain Delbanco promised to make me his first fuse.” ** And you deserted him?” ‘“*On the contrary, sir, he deserted me.” ‘* Where?” ‘* He left me on special duty ashore and went off without me, and hence I came to seek ser- vice with you.” ‘* What was the special duty?” “To await the coming of his boats, and go with them to the schooner, which it was first \ ‘. his intention to seize, but which Benedict, the % Buccaneer, anticipated him in cutting out.’ ‘Was there nothing else?” “‘ How do you mean, sir?” ‘* Did he give you no other duty?” ‘None, sir.” ‘* Were you alone?” Sw Cas eiaee ‘*Osmond, I have been deceived by you, for you have licd to me, and were only prevented from being a traitor to Captain Delbanco by an accident which caused you to remain on shore, ‘* Now, sir, Iam confident you would also be- tray me, and even now may be in my camp for that purpose, while I know that you meant harm to one who was defenseless and in your power. “So now I will run no risks with you, but simply place you where you can do no harm,” F Oscar Osmond turned pallid, and gasped orth: ‘What do you mean, Commodore Conrad?” ‘“‘T mean, sir, that you are to die!” “ Die ?” “Yes, for Ihave already given orders for a file of seamen to come here and execute you; and when yonder sun disappears beyond the tree-tops, you shall die,” ‘*Great God! Do you mean this?’ and the man glared upon the Pirate Commodore, ‘*T certainly do, for I know you as you are.” Oscar Osmond looked like a bunted stag at bay, and stood for a moment gazing at the man who had pronounced the cruel sentence against bim, : Conrad sat leaning back in bis chair, directly before bim, and gazing into his face, a cruel smile upon his lips. Then. with the leap of a tiger upon his prey, Oscar Osmond sprung toward the chief, rais- ing his hand, which clasped a hastily-drawn knife, ‘* Never will I die by your hand, for I came here to be chief!” he yelled in a voice that rung over the camp. Leaning back as he was, and unarmed, it was impossible for Conrad either to rise quickly or defend himself, and he saw death almost upon bim, But suddenly there came a whirring sound, acry, and Oscar Osmond dropped at the very feet of the man he had intended to kill, with an arrow buried in bis temple. Then Conrad sprung to his feet, and turned to the one who had fired the death-shot, while he cried: ia “Ha, Indian! you saved me that time and we are friends for life.” ‘Me kill just in time,” was the calm response of the Indian, as he withdrew his arrow from Osmond’s temple and returned it to its quiver all stained as it was. “You did, indeed, and I was right in sentenc- ing him to death, for I believe he has already been sowing the seeds of mutiny here, from the words he used. ‘* Well, Clo’, you are avenged on that yo too, and Delbanco will come next, for we will soon sail for. the Keys, where Pasquagoula reports him as being,” and he turned to Clotilde at just then approached, shuddering as she azed upon the form of the man who had been hor foe, and where fate had been so quickly met, CHAPTER XXIV. THE BATTLE OF THE BUCCANEERS. It was a rare disappointment to Delbanco, to run out of port without Clotilde, and Oscar Osmond. He had intended, if successful in cutting out the Flagless Schooner, bis first intention, the reader will remember, to run down opposite to the constable’s cottage and kidnap Clotilde. But the plan of Boyd Benedict had placed ber in his power, and when found to fly from the schooner, he had taken her with him. He had taken a fancy to Oscar Osmond, and had left her without fear under his guardian- ship; but when he returned to the m agnolias and found the maiden gone, her guar also, and the dead body of the constable, be did not look upon Osmond as a traitor, but believed that ke had been discovered and attacked by the maiden’s father. What bad become of the two, be could not imagine; but he bad no time then to tarry and make a search, so put to sea in all haste, He had no well-defined idea regarding where lay the Treasure Island; but such a clew as he had he was determined to follow up. ——_e— aly v ’ can ee 2 thy ’ ‘ 7 4 A 4 2 ” Ree te ia aS
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- Rs BF His search should be thorough among the Chandeleurs, then the Florida Keys, and next the Bahamas, and in the mean time, like Boyd _ Benedict, he intended to keep bis crew quietly committing piracies, for they were not to be let into the secret of the real object of his cruise. First he sailed for the Chandeleurs, and every foot of those islands he examined most thoroughly, until he became convinced that the Pirate Treasure was not buried there. _ ‘ He found traces of some one’s having lived on several of them, and numerous indications that vessels had been wrecked there, but. no treasure could be discovered there, or indica- tions that any had been left there. From the Chandeleurs he begav on the Flor- ida Keys, and it was while prosecuting his search among them that Pasquagoula and Clo- tilde had sighted his vessel on their way to the retreat of the Reef Pirates. : Following what clews he had, Captain Del- banco searched untiringly, now and then run- ning off to capture a merchant vessel for stores and booty, and again returning to where he had left off, to once more begin. . It was just as he departed one morning before dawn, to goupon one of these expeditions, that a canoe Meeatoing a single occupant lay not far from him, watching his movements. The occupant had seen the vessel at anchor, heard the men called aboard, for they were camping on an island, and had then seen the craft stand away. Going to the camp he found that it had been seemingly left for only a short while, for stores, shovels and other utensils had been left. Having satisfied himself on this score he went back to his canoe, and as[the vessel was now leagues away, raised his sail and sped away among the islauds, A run of a few leagues brought him to a group of islands in which were five small ves- sels, three schooners and two sloops, It was the little fleet of the Pirate Commo- dore of the Reefs, Boarding the larger of these vessels the occu- pant of the canoe stalked boldly into the cabin, ‘* Well, Pasqua,” cried Conrad, calling the In- oe by balf of his name, as he had a habit of oing: ‘“‘ What news?” ‘*Wing-boat have camp on island, and dig much, but wing-boat sail to big water.” ‘*Gone! Too bad! too bad!’ ‘‘Not go stay long, for leave plenty on isl- ” att. “Gone steal something eat from ship; then come back.” ‘‘ Level-headed you are, chief; but, what do you think we should do?” ‘* Hide here and wait for enemy come back; then go in small boat at night.” ‘*'You are right again; but how will we know when he returns?” “¢‘ Pasquagoula keep eye on him.” ss fellow you are, and I will load your canoe with the very best provisions and let you have a man or two with you if you wish,” ‘No, go lone.” “As you please, Pasqua,” was the answer, and Conrad gave orders for Sea Horse, his negro cook, to supply the Indian with all he needed to eat. This was done, and Pasquagoula returned to the island where Delbanco had bis camp and awaited the return of the pirates, A week passed, and one night, as Clotilde was leaning over the schooner’s taffrail, she sudden- ly beheld a dark object come in sight, It was the Indian’s canoe, and a few moments after he sprung on deck. “T am glad to see you back, Pasquagoula, But come; the chief is in the cabin.” “Glad to come, and have news,” answered the Indian, following the maiden, “Pirate come back, and men in camp,” he announced bluntly, as Conrad turned to meet him. “‘ Splendid news, haps rt but do the crew of the schooner camp on shore?” ‘Have to dig much and camp on shore; few on wing-boat,” 5 “¢ Well, shall we go in our boats, or run in on them with the fleet?” ‘Too rough to go in little boat; have to take ME ot es will. get and ell, we will get under way at once, and you shall be the pilot.” " : Half an hour after the little fleet was stand- ing away from its anchorage and heading to- ward the island where lay the Sea Owl, “Uncle, I have a favor to ask of you.” It was the first time that Clotilde had called The Indian Pilot. him uncle, and the chief seemed pleased there- by, sc turned quickly, and said pleasantly: ‘* Anything you please, Clo’.” **The Sea Owl is a most beautiful vessel, and to fire upon her with heavy guns might damage her, so would it not be better to carry her by boarding?” “You have some other motive for this, Clo’, but I will do as you wish,” ‘* Yes, I have another reason, and that is this: ‘*T have been thinking that the Sea Ow] was rather small, after all, for the work we have cut out for her, as the schooner of Boyd Bene- dict is nearly double her tonnage; but, with the ea Owl a prize, I feel that I could make a most advantageous bargain for another vessel. ‘* But the other vessel, Clo’?” “Trust that to me, sir, and only get the Sea Owl, and see if Ido not make a good exchange, for I know well how much that little craft is thought of, and ber draught and size render her better suited forthe work of a coast-guard craft than the vessel I have in view.” “Well, it shall be as you wish, Clo’; but now to consult the Indian as to the best way to attack the cruiser.” Pasquagoula, when asked, said that the cruis- er was anchored in a crescent-sha bay of the island, and the little fleet could divide and thus make the approach, Two of the schooners were to go one way, and the flag schooner and two sloops the other, and meeting opposite to the entrance of the basin, could thus run in together, as their ap- proach would doubtless not be sighted by those on the Sea Owl. \ This plan was adopted, and shortly after mid- night the flog schooner of the pirate fleet, with the Indian Pilot at the helm, stood into the little harbor, the other craft coming close in her wake, All were under easy sail, the wind was light, and they felt certain of victory, for the watch of the Sea Owl seemed not to have discovered their approach, But when witbin a couple of cable-lengths a loud voice was heard calling the crew to quar- ters; battle lanterns flashed on board; lights were seen on shore, responding voices came from off the island, and the alarm was general. Bearing down upon the cruiser, as she lay at anchor, Conrad called bis boarders to bis side just as a broadside came from the Sea Owl. It was well aimed, and it did considerable havoc on Conrad’s schooner and the one imme- diately in its wake; but the Sea Owl, lying at anchor as she was, could not bring another broadside to bear, and the next instant the Reef Pirates’ craft ran alongside. and her crew leaped on board, just as the grapnels were thrown. Almost at the same moment two boats from the shore came off, filled with men, and the fight became fierce and deadly upon the Sea Owl’s deck; but three more of the Reef Pirates’ fleet came to the rescue, while the fifth craft, a sloop, put in to shore and sent off a boat to cap- ture the camp. . Surprised, overpowered and with but one thing to do to save life, the pirates did it, and that was to cry for quarter, But the Reef Pirates were a savage lot, and it was with considerable difficulty that their red work was checked, ard then only when Clotilde ran into their midst, with Pasquagoula by her side to protect her, and cried in a stern voice: ‘* Hold, men! are you such cowards gs to kill men who beg for mercy?’ This checked their course; the battle of the buccaneers was ended and Captain Delbanco was a prisoner to the girl who, a short while since had been his captive. In dismay he started back, and cried: “Tn Heaven’s name what do you here, girl?” “T am the chief of your victors, Captain Del- banco, and you are my prisoner,” and turning to the Reef Pirates, she continued: | ‘Men, your chief lies dead on his own deck, killed by the broadside of this schooner; but with bis last breath he told.me to take his place, and [ shall do so. ‘* Follow me, and I Jead you to, fastune and take from about your necks the er of the hangman. ‘* What do you say?” A wild shout of approval greeted her words, and then ringing cheers were giving for “ Our Girl Chief, Captain Clotilde.” CHAPTER XXV. A MYSTERIOUS WOMAN. Henry HERBERT sat alone in his cabin. ¢ He was buried in deep thought, and evidently” it was of no very pleasant nature for his hand- some face was clouded. After the brig Sea Cloud had been given to: him, by the mysterious padre, whom he had not seen since, the young middy had gone ona cruise in search of bis stolen cruiser, He was the more anxious to obtain possession. of the yacht, as she had been a present to him from ber former commander, and had, in a secret receptacle on board, some important oe Ps and charts, with quite a sum of gold be- onging to the Government. : he little cruiser was slso better suited for coast service, than was the brig, and was as fleet as any keel afloat. For these reasons, not to speak of his desire to recapture his stolen craft, Midshipman Her- bert was most anxious to recapture the Sea Owl, But he had made two cruises in the Sea Cloud without success. The Sea Cloud was well-armed, manned and equipped, and be knew tbat he could come off victor, if he could get near enough to have a combat with the pirates; but this he had not. been able to do. On the morrow he would again start on a. cruise after her, and he had merely run into port for fresh supplies. ‘A lady to see you, sir,” said Midshipman. Rule entering the cabin. ‘*A lady to see me?” asked the young com- mander very much as he might have .done had. he been told a pirate, bad called upon him, ‘s'Yes, sir.” ‘* Well, ask her in; but what can she want?” A moment after a slender, Prat form, clad in deep black, entered the chbin. heavy, somber vail completely hid her fea- tures from view; but a soft voice said: ‘*Do I address Captain Herbert, sir?” ‘Midshipman Herbert, lady, but acting com- mander, Be seated, please.” She obeyed and a silence followed for an in- stant, and then the midshipman broke it with: “How can I serve you, lady?” “You were commander of the Sea Owl, which was cut out from her anchorage by Del- banco the pirate.” ‘“‘T was, lady; do you know augbt of her?” ‘You prize the vessel very highly?” ** Most highly, I assure you.” ‘* Which vessel would ao prefer, may I ask, this one, or the Sea Owl?” ‘This vessel is the superior of the Owl, lady. but the little schooner was the one I was placed in command of, and is the better adapted for the services I am called on to perform.” Bia, Would you exchange this brig for the Sea wil?” ‘* Willingly, if it lay in my power to do so.” "Does this vessel belong to the Govern- ment?” “I 0, lady, for it was presented personally to me. ‘By whom?’ be ‘* A padre,” ‘Ah yes, one who has established a monas- tery, and does many good deeds to atone for his. past sins,” ‘Tt is the same; but, why your questions re- garding the exchange of this brig for my Sea. Owl, now in the possession of pirates?” ‘Tt is in my power to make the exchange.” “Tn ye ower?’ “Ts is, hat I say to you, Captain Herbert, must be in strict confidence.” ‘Tt shall be, lady.” “You must make me certain promises, and agree to certain terms,” ‘* Name them.” ‘Well, sir, I will pledge you to exchange the Sea Owl for this brig on the following terms: ‘*T will sail with you in the brig as a hostage, and with one other person, my companion, who- will serve as your pilot. ‘‘ He will take you to a rendezvous where the Sea Owl now is, and surrender her to you, with Delbanco and some thirty of his oe crew, be- sides five small vessels, the Reef Pirates’ fleet—” ‘* Ha! do you mean this?” ‘*T do, and will carry out my part of the compact to the letter.” > That is, you will surrender the Sea Owl?” es. “With Delbanco and thirty of his crew?” “And ft Is bel to the fi ‘And five vessels belongi e fleet of Reef Pirates?” sisied “So [ said.” *« And their crews?” “No, the Reef Pirate fleet you get crewless,™ “And what becomes of them?” ‘That is my secret,”
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14 ‘* Ah! now what do [ have to do in return, please tell me?” ‘‘Give me possession of this brig, her guns and equipments,” “ Well?” ** And allow me to man her with a crew that I shall take from the Reef Pirate fleet?” ‘**T see now.” “And hang, before my eyes, ere you sail from the rendezvous, with the Sea Owl and fleet, the man Delbanco, to the yard-arm of this brig. ** And his crew?” **'You can do as you please as to them; but Delbanco you must hang.” “You hate him?” **T have had cause.” *‘ And what else am I to do?” ** Nothing for me.” ot what service will this brig be devoted to '“ That you need not know.” ‘* Well, this is certainly a most remarkable wg 7 ga ** You are the gainer, for you get your Sea ‘Owl, five other vessels, Delbanco and thirty of his pirates.” “True,” **Do you accept my terms?” “c 1 dad ” ‘And pledge your word and honor as an officer to do as I desire?” ‘Yes, I so pledge myself,” ‘*Knough, get up anchor and set sail.” ‘* And the companion you spoke of?” ‘Came on board with me,” ‘* Well, lam ready to start, and this cabin is at your disposal, Jady, as long as you remain in ‘the brig; but am I not to know your name?” “It is not necessary, sir; but come on deck and I will tell my companion to take the helm and serve as your pilot.” They went on deck and nalf an hour after the brig was flying over the waters, with Pas- uagoula, the Indian Pilot, at the wheel, for, as the reader has doubtless surmised, the vailed woman was none other than Clotilde, the pirate’s wife. CHAPTER XXVI. A PIRATE’S WIFE. MipsHipMaN HENRY HERBERT was certainly greatly surprised, atthe very strange lady pas- senger he had met in so mysterious a manner. She had not once removed her somber vail, and, as the young officer gave her the full use of his cabin be had not been able to get a glimpse at her face. : Sbe passed more time on deck than below, and she was often in conversation with the In- dion, whose manner was ever most respectful to er. a ay As for Pasquagoula, Midshipman Herbert noticed that excepting to go to his meals, he cared not to leave the helm. He seemed never to tire, and, during the first night’s run did not leave the wheel. Was he aed led into a trap, the young officer won- ere was one thing certain, and that was he had been offered most excellent terms by the vailed girl, or woman, if she carried them out, Thus the time passed until the Indian stated that the little fleet was not many leagues away. It was night, and the cautious middy was de- termined not to run into a trap in the dark, so ve orders to stand off and on, after approach- ng nearer to the island rendezvous, until day- light came. he Indian Pilot held the belm at the time, and he said mai as though understanding the alarm of Henry Herbert: “No have fear; all right—there,” “Still I prefer to await the dawn, pilot.” **] see that you mistrust me, senor,” said Clo- tilde, who had come noiselessly up the com- panionway and overheard what had been said. Henry Herbert answered frankly: ** Lady, I haye no right to put my vessel and crew in dauger, without thoroughly knowing what is before them, “I wish to trust you fully, and bave shown my desire to do 80 by coming; but 1 will not run in among a fleet of vessels without knowing whatthey are.” ee “They will do you no harm, senor,” | “For myself, lady, I care not, for I take all chances as they arise, but for my vessel and crew I hesitate, so will await the dawn,” “Delays may be dangerous, senor,” she said somewhat nervously. ““Ab! you then are not sure yourself what we are to expect?” “The Indian Pilot “T am sure that affairs are as I informed you, senor; but still, [ left a wild lot of men without a leader, and they may have taken the reins in their own hands since my departure.” ‘¢ But where is their leader, lady?’ ‘*The leader of the Reef Pirates was known as Conrad the Pirate Commodore—” “Ah! yes, a man I have long wished to rest ‘He has escaped you, senor.” “What do you mean?” ‘He will never be hanged.” ** Indeed! has be reformed?” ‘*No, he is dead.” **No! That daring, desperate man dead?” ex- citedly said the middy. ‘“‘You know this lady? ‘*T saw him fall, and it is his fleet I intend to surrender to you.” “But Delbanco?” ‘* He is there, also.” : ‘And a leader in the place of Conrad doubt- ess?’ ‘No, he is a prisoner.” “To whom?” ‘The Reef Pirates,” ** Aha! a case of dog eat dog, is it, lady?” “Tt was, Senor Herbert.” “ And this Delbanco you are to surrender to me, as I understand it?” “ I am.” ‘* With his men?” ‘Some thirty of his crew.” ** And his fleet?” “The yacht Sea Owl, and the fleet of Conrad, the Pirate Commodore.” j ‘* You have great power, lady.” ** Tn this instance, yes, senor.” ‘* And you refuse to tell me who you are?” “No, I will tell you,” she said in a low tone. “*T will thank you,” and he politely raised his hat. Then came her reply, and in a voice that was hoarse with feeling: ‘*Senor Herbert, Jam a pirate’s wife.” Henry Herbert fairly started at her words, | but asked: “* And you betray your husband?” “Oh no, I avenge myself upon Delbanco, and use the Reef Pirates to further my end.” ‘* And that end, lady?’ asked Henry Herbert ats. a respect for the woman in spite of him- self. ; ‘““ To see my pirate husband hang,” she bissed, and turning quickly descended into the cabin, while Midshipmau Herbert, more than ever in- terested in the mysterious woman, turned to the Indian Pilot, in an endeavor to glean from him something about her; but Pasquagoula was dumb at all reference made to either Cap- tain Clotilde or himself. CHAPTER XXVIL. DELBANCO’S DOOM. In spite of a certain trust in his strange pas- senger, Midshipman Herbert felt a certain anx- iety also, and it kept him from seeking his rest, after being told by the Indian Pilot that the buccaveer fleet was not far distant from where the brig then was, Pesquagoula kept bis place at the wheel, and when Henry Herbert supposed his fair passen- ger asleep, she suddenly appeared upon deck. Walking up to the Indian Pilot she said a few words to him in a low tone, and this added to the young officer’s suspicions. : Walking eft to speak to her, she turned coldly and passed down into the cabin, her manner showing him that she bad no desire to converse with him. . This added to the suspicion of the young mid- dy, and he secretly aroused and had the men all ready to come on deck at the appearance of danger. As they were not very far from a group of islands, be rather expected, if danger came, it would appear in the shape of an attack in small boats, rather than by @ vessel or vessels. But the night passed away without avy alarm, and, with the break of day Henry Herbert called the crew quesy to quarters, and ordered the Indian Filot to stand toward the rendezvous where Clotilde had told him be would fiad the little yacht and Reef Pirates’. fleet. As the darkness faded away the outline of the island was sighted, and there’ the topmasts of the fleet were visible above it, looking like a grove of trees that had been riven of their branches by a stroke of lightning. Nearer and nearer, under the Indian Pilot's guidance, the brig drew to the Reef Pirates’ Isl- and, Pasquagoula heading her round so as to run into the basin, and presently a man was! seen in the fore-top of what knew to be his stolen yacht. The men were now all at their guns, the small- — arms were ready at band, and the crew stripped for action, watched the grove of topmasts, alter- nately glancing at their young commander and wondering if he intended to attack the very for- midable looking fleet in sight. That the brig was seen by the pirates there was certainly no manner of doubt, and yet there appeared to be no excitement amon them, for the vessels remained stationary me there was no setting of sails or getting up of anchors. As the brig rounded the point, and came in full view of the fleet at anchor, the pirates were all seen congregated upon the deck of the Sea- Owl, and evidently watching the apprvach of the vessel-of-war with considerable solicitude, Just then Clotilde came on deck, and said hastily: *‘ Will you run this flag up to the brig’s fore, Captain Herbert?” e took the flag and glanced at it. “ This is the flig of the Reef Pirates,” he said, | Beanie their well-known colors, 1 ‘‘Yes, and the men yonder will feel that all is right at seeing it,” “I do not wish to hoist a pirate flag above my decks, lady.” “Tt is ovly as a signal, that the crew may know you mean them no harm; but as you lease, sir; only, if they get alarmed and open re upon you, do not blame me,” Mr. Rule, run this flag up to the fore,” order- ed Henry Herbert, and as it fluttered out upon the breeze there came a wild cheer from the Reef Pirates. The brig now ran in, and, taking in sail at the suggestion of the Indian Pilot, glided along- side of the yacht, the pirates standing in a line to receive her, and giving another cheer as the | maiden was recognized, for, springing upon the bulwarks and grasping the shrouds, she sudden- ly revealed ber face to the outlaws, though no one on the brig caught sight of it, ‘*Men, I have returned, and my terms have been accepted, for you are to be my crew, ard sail with me on this brig, while your prisoners and the fleet are to be turned over to Captain Herbert, the commander of this American cruiser. ‘: Are you content?” Every word was distinctly spoken, and one of the men, as the pirate’s wife concluded, shouted out: ; ‘Three cheers for Captain Clotilde!” These were given with a will, and then, turn- ing to Henry Herbert, Clotilde said: ‘Senor, your fleet lies here, and your prison- ers are in the yacht’s hold,” “ Thirty, you said, I believe, lady?” “Yes, Captain Herbert.” ¥ . I will take them to New Orleans for trial, and—" ‘Their captain, you know, Senor Herbert, is not to be tried.” ‘* Ab! your terms were that he should be exe- cuted?” ; ‘Yes, senor, and immediately,” she said al- most savagely. “Mr. Rule, be good enough to bring Del- banco, the pirate captain upon deck, and then muster all hands to witness execution.” Midshipman Rule departed upon his errand, and Delbanco was brought on deck, his crew following him, A number of the brig’s crew guarded the pi- rates, while the crew of Captain Clotilde stood in silence looking on. As Delbanco came on deck he cast his eyes over the different faces, and started as he saw that of Henry Herbert. Then he beheld Clotilde and became utterly pale, while be said hoarsely: ‘‘This is your work, girl!” ‘“‘Tt is, Delbanco, my work,” was the calm reply. R eis are Delbanco, the pirate, are you not?” asked Midshipman Herbert, sternly, “ No.” “¢ Who are you?” ‘¢ An honest man, and one whom a woman’s revenge wishes to make suffer.” ‘‘T know vou to be a pirate.” “Tam not; but if I were, you have no right to hang me without a fair trial.” “J will dispense with a trial this time, and assume the right to hang you.” ““You dare not,” ‘You have but ten minutes to aig was the stern rejoinder, and Herbert turned aside to look after the preparations for running the pi- rate up to the yard-urm of the brig. ¥Vrs the midshipman ee
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“Girl, will you allow this?” cried Delbanco, furiously. 4 “Tt is at my request that you are punished now as you deserve,” answered Clotilde. *¢-You have a heart of iron!” hissed the doom- ed man. ; ; Clotilde smiled grimly, for she was becoming terribly callous in ber nature after all that she had passed through, ‘Are you ready, Mr. Rule?” asked the mid- shipman commander, wishing to quickly end the painful scene, ‘ST any, si.” “Then put the noose about that man’s neck,” “This was done, Delbanco trembling visibly and muttering curses, * But he was heavily ironed, and could offer no resistance, His crew stood in line behind him, white as ghoste, and believing that they, too, were to ie. The brig’s crew looked on in stern silence, while the Reef Pirates were certainly uneasy, for if they were to escape death at the yard- arm then, they were well aware that they de- served hanging. _ Pasquagoula, the Indian Pilot, stood by in utter indifference, seemingly, while Clotilde paced to and fro, her face still vailed, and her whole manner that of one who was moved by deep emotion. “Your time is up, Delbanco, and may Heaven have mercy upon your guilty soul,” cried Henry Herbert, impressively. Delbanco would have spoken, but the middy said sternly: ‘*Haul hard there, men!” Up into the air went the struggling pirate, ai with chains, while Clotilde said in a low one: “Now I am avenged upon you, Delbanco,” CHAPTER XXVIII. CONCLUSION. AFTER Delbanco was lowered from the yard- arm, Henry Herbert turned to Clotilde, who still kept her stand upon the deck of the brig, and asked ay: : ‘* Lady, have I fulfilled my terms?” ** You have, senor.” ‘¢- You are satisfied then?” ‘‘Fully, Captain Herbert, so far as you can serve me.” “ And now?” * And now, senor, you can take your yacht, the pirate crew of Delbanco, and the fleet of the _ Reef Pirates, and sail for any port you desire,” ‘6 And you?” “Shall retain the brig according to our terms.” _ ‘And the Reef Pirates?” - “Shall be my crew.” ‘May I ask in what service?” “That of revenge!” Henry Herbert was struck with the savage manner in which she spoke, but said; * You certainly are revengeful,” *‘T have had cause to be, ‘‘May I ask who the victim is to be this time?’ : “ My husband.’ Again did Henry Herbert start. The woman was then not willingly a pirate’s wife! ‘ She had wrongs to avenge, and meant to do t. He felt more deeply interested in her, and ‘would have sought to find out more regardiug her; but she seemed to wish toend the conver- sation, and said abruptly: “Now, senor, I will thank you and bid you farewell; but, should you-hear that Captain Clotilde, as my men call me, has turned pirate, set it down as false, for I seek only to avenge myself and no more, and use this vessel and crew for that purpose only, Farewell!” She bowed in a way that told him plainly she wished him to depart, and therefore he raised his hat and left the brig. ' Her crew then came bounding on board the vessel, at a motion from her, and ringing cheers went up for: “ Our Lady Chief, Captain Clotilde!” Sail was at once set upon the brig, which Stood out of the basin, the Indian Pilot at the wheel, and aoe astern Clotilde saw the yacht soon after follow, with the pirate fleet, on board of which were prize crews, in her wake, wil While the feet of the young middy stood away for New Orleans, the brig under Captain i . Clotilde was put on a course to find Benedict the Buccaneer, for upon him now turned all the hatred of the injured woman. It was no easy task, she well understood, to »_ 87 The Land The Indian Pilot. — find Benedict, but Pasquagoula knew the | waters of the Bahamas well, and thither she went, for there she expected to find him, search- ing for the lost Gold Island, : ‘hus days passed away, and then weeks rolied by; but untiringly Captain Clotilde held to her search. Her wild and reckless crew often wished to capture some merchant craft for her booty; but this the woman would not bear to, and to appease their greed for gold, gave to them now and then from the riches she had on board, At last, when cruising one day there came the thrilling cry from aloft: ** Sail bo!” It was the schooner of Benedict the Buc- caneer, as all now saw, and orders were at once given to head toward tha pirate. Coming on deck, Captain Clotilde it was seen had prepared herself for the combat, for she had cast aside her vail and was armed with a cutlass and pistols, while, in the sash about her slender waist was also a iong-bladed knife. Her face was white as that of a corpse, but her eyes were as bright as diamonds, and she issued her orders in a Voice that had a threaten- ing ring to it. J Tbe schooner had also sighted the brig, and stood toward her, evidently mistaking ber at once for a merchant vessel. But this thougkt was soon dissipated by a shot from the Sea Cloud, and the schooner would have put away in flight, for Boyd Bene- dios desire was not to fight, bad not an island prevented his escape without a combat. Thus forced to it, he beat to quarters, and a hot and fierce action was begun, the brig gradu- ally edging nearer and nearer, until the Indian Pilot skillfully laid her alongside of the schoon- er, and the Reef Pirates boarded and drove all before their impetuous onslaught. ; A short while only, then, the combat lasted, and the victory was won for the brig, and Boyd Benedict lay dying upon the deck, with Clotilde bending over him. In broken tones he told her of his love for her, how her fatber had forced him to kill him in self-defense, and how disappointed he was at not finding her on board the schooner. * And now, Clo’,” he continued in a low voice, “‘T die by your hand, for I saw you fire the shot that gave me this death-wound, I love you, and the treasure I would have found, but find the grave of a pirate in the deep sea, Et Farewell, Clo’, and believe that I forgive you. ‘“No! no! you shall not go alone, for I will die with you. See! we die together!” With this she placed a pistol to her heart, pulled the trigger, and with the report sunk down upon the breast of her pirate husband. In dismay her crew stood looking on, while the twilight shadows gathered about them, Then there rung out the cry of: “Sail bo!” Then, right upon them came the Sea Owl, her men at their guns, and boarders ready, ‘* Me no good here; me go too,” cried Pasqua- goula, and with a bound he sprung into the sea and disappeared beneath the waters, just as the Sea Owl ran alongside the brig and threw out grapnels. Over upon the Sea Cloud’s deck came Henry Herbert and his gallant tars, and, taken by surprise, the Reef Pirates fell back before them and soon cried for quarter, and the daring young middy made a double capture of the beiz and the schooner, and set sail in triumph with bis prizes back to port. But he buried first, upon an island, poor Clo- tilde and her pirate husband, and bemoaned the fate of the unbappy and revengeful woman, while he also regretted the mysterious disap- pearance of Pasquagoula, for with the death of the Indian Pilot it was said the secret was for- ever lost of the whereabouts of the Pirates’ Island and its buried treasure. THE END. Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID. p ek ‘he Yellow Chief's Vengeance. Be The’ aay 3 Mare bn ahs The League of Devil's laland. 187 The Help! NH or, Backwoods Retribution, 289 The Golll-seeker Guidet or, The Lost Mountain, BY GEORGE ©. JENKS. S36 aut Ther Owney ‘ the Cabaven t Ow ‘* edge. 518 The Demon Moctor. BY WM. 6, PATTEN. 489 Th d Sport: or, The Double Face of Bed Rock 519 Ca Nog ott Ms on Five in One. 581 Daisy Dare the Sport from Denver. , , , - “+ 15 BY EDWARD WILLETT. 167 Asa Scott, the Steamboat Boy. ’ 199 Featherweight the Boy Champion of the Muskingum. ¥ 228 Ozark Alf; or, Featherweight Among the Outlaws. 282 The Typo Detective; or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp, 295 Fearless Phil; or, The King of Quarteville. S11 The Roving Sport; or, The Pride of Chuckaluck Camp, 822 Nemo, the Sretectives or, Kit Kenyon's Vendetta, $40 Olip the Contortioniast; or, The Montana Vigilantes, BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes of a Bowery Gil. Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. . ol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. e Buck of Angels and His Boy Pard. New York Nat. A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham, 458 New England Nicks or, The Fortunes of a Foundling, 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince. 498 Taos Ted, toe Arizona Sport. 510 Cool Colorado, the Hal!-Breed Detective, ~~ 515 Cool Colorado in New York, BY CAP1. J. F. ©. ADAMB. 84 Oregon Sol; or, Nick Whiffles’s Boy Spy. 46 Glasa-Eye, the Groat Shot of the West, 54 Ned Hazel, the Boy Trapper. 56 Nick Whiffles’s Pet; or, fy The Valley of Death. 60 The White Indian; or, The Scovt of the Yellowstone, TO Old Zip’s Cabin; or, The Greenhorn in the Woods, S31 Lightning Jo, the Terror of the Prairie. 85 Buck Buckrams; or, Bess, the Female Trapper, 247 Old Grizzly and Hila Peta; or, The Wild Huntress, 251 Light-house Lige; or, Osceola, the Firebrand, 257 The Lost Hunters; or, The Underground Camp, 288 The Scalp King; or, The Human Thunderbolt, BY JOSEPH E, BADGER, JR, 2 Vellowstone Jack; or, The Tra os 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, y ie Outlaw’s Rotre: 65 Hurricane BILL; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard, 119 Muatang Sam 3; or, The King of the Plains, 186 Night-lhawk Kits or, The Daughter of the Ranch, 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. 151 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Rescue. 160 The Black Shanty or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy. 168 Deadly ad, el | or, Fighting Fire with Fire. 184 The Boy Trailers; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path, 208 The Boy Parday; or, Dainty Lance Unmaska, 211 Crooked Cale, the Caliban of Celestial City. 810 The Barranca W olf’; or, The Beautiful Decoy. 819 The Black Rider; or, The Horse-Thieves’ Leages, B85 Old Double Fiat, or, The Strange Guide. 855 The King of the Woods: or Daniet Boone's Laat Trail, 449 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective. ‘ BY BUCKSKIN SAM (Major Sam. 8. Hall.) 284 Old Rocky’s * Boyees;” or, Benito, the Young Horse Breaker. 246 Glant George; or, The Ang’l of the Range. 275 Arizona Jack 3 or, Giant George’s Pard. 207 The Tarantula of Taons or, Giant George’s Revenge, 807 The Strange Pard; or, Little Ben's Death Hunt. 818 Ker-whoop, Ker-whoo} or, The ‘l'arantula of Taos. 827 Creeping Vat, the Caddo} or, The Red and White Pards, 882 Frio Wrredi or, The Tonkaway’s Trust, 844 The Fighting Trio: or, Rattlesnake, the Tonkaway, 849 Wild Wolf; or, Big-Foot Wallace to the Front. B57 The Ranch Raiders; or, The Siege of Fort Purgatory, 864 Snap-Shot, the Boy Ranger. B75 Chiota, the Creek; or, The Three Thunderbolts. 881 Bandera Bill; or. Frio Frank to the Front. 892 Romeo and the Reda; or, The Beleaguered Ranch, 404 Little Lartat; or, Pecan Pete's Big Rampage. 414 The Dalay from Denver. 427 The Three Tratlers; or, Old Rocky on the Rampage, 442 Bluff Bill; or, The Lynx of the Leona, 455 Little Lone Star? or, The Belle of the Cibolo, Re Qe V4 = MISCELLANEOUS AUTHORS, 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters. By Capt. Mayne Reld and Frederick Whittaker, 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen, 12 Gulliver’s Travels. By Dean witt. 14 Aladding or, The Wonderful Lamp. 16 Robinson Crusoe, (27 Illustrations.) 18 Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven \ M dey 2 The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinson Crusoe, By Juan Lewis, 88 The Ocean Bloodhound; or, The Red Pirates of the Carribews, By 8, W. Pierce, 86 Te Boy Olowns; or, The Queen of tho Arena, By Frank $. Fin . Finn. BS Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 61 The Boy Rifles; or, The Underground Camp. By Archie trons, 95 The Rival Rovers; or, The Freebooters of the Missisaippt. By Lieut.-Col. Hazeltine. 98 Robin Hood, the Outlawed Ear); or, The Merry Men of Green- wood, By Prof. Gildersleeve, 105 Old Rube, the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive, By Captain Hamilton Holmes. 112 The Mad unter; or, The Cave of Death, By Burton Saxe. 124 Zippy. the Texan; or, The Young Champion, By George Slerson. 128 The Young Privateer; or, The Pirate's Stronghold, By Harry Cavendish. 148 Sharp Sam; or, The Adventures of a Friendleas Boy, By J; Alexander Patten. 227 Pusky Darrell, Trapper: or, The Green Ranger of the Yel- lowstone. By Edward Emerson. & 261 Forge Fearnaught the New York Boy. By George L. en. 266 Killb’ar, the Guide; 7, Davy Crockett's Crooked Trail. By Ensign C. D. Warren, 298 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Mald of the Clif, By Captain Compatock, : 817 Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadville. By Lieu- tenant Alired Thorne. 828 The Sky Ibetective; or, A Boy’s Fight for Lite and Honos. By Maior Mickey Free. 850 Red Ralph, the River Rover; or, The Brother’s Re venge, Ned Bun tline. 865 Baltimore Ben the Boothlack Detective. By A. P. Morris, 874 Gold-Dust Tom; or, Ben’s Double Match, By George H. Morse. 876 California Joe’s Firat Trail, By Colone) Thomas Hoyer Monastery, 418 Billy Bombshell, the Cliff Climber. By F. 8. Winthrop. 475 The Black Ship. By John 8S, Warner, 454 Comanche Dick and Mia Three Invinetbles, By Henry J. Thomas. P 528 Wizard-Arm, the Denes “re Arthur F. Holt, 'y Edwin Brooke Forrest, 582 The Cowboy Duke. B52 Ariel the Athlete. By David Druid, _ A New Issue Every Tuesday. r The Half- Dime Library {s for sxle by all newsdealers, five conts per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cente euch, BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Vem,
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Published Every Tuesday. ~ _BEADLE’S*H ALF-DIME*] IBRARY., Each Issue Complete and Sold at tne Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novels. 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 Wild Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval, 42 Phantom Miner}; or, Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza, 49 Omaha OL; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger. 5? Deadwood Dicks Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity Jane, the Heroine, %@ Corduroy Charlie; or, Deadwood Dick’s Last Act, 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville. 104 Deadwood Dick’« Device; or, ‘The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gorgon’s Gulch. 188 Blonde Bill; or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base. 149 A Game of Gold; or, Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood} or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream}; or, The Rivils of the Road. 201 The Black Hilla Jezebel; or, Deadwood Dick’s Ward, 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jone’s Last Ad- venture, 217 Captain Crack-Shot, the Girl Brigand. 221 Sugar-Coated Sam; or, The Black Gown. 282 Gold-Duat Dick. A Romance of Rough: and Toughs, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. 809 Deadwood Dick’s Big Deal; or, The Gold Brick of regon, 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 Sentenced; or, The Terrible Vendetta. B62 poedwond Dick’s Claim; or, The Fairy Face of Faro “te. 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 : endwood Dick’s Diamonds; or, The Mystery of Joan Porter. b 421 Dendwood Dick in New York; or, A “ Cute Case,” 480 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand, 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr. 448 Nickel-Plate Ned; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Defiance. 458 Sunflower Sam, of Shasta; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Full Hand. 459 Eeusk Fan, the Ferret; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Big Ronnd- 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 Harry, 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’a Compact. 49@ Monte Cristo, Jr.: or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Inheritance. 500 Deadwood Dick’s Digpings 3 or, Dr. Death-Grip’s Swoop. 508 Deadwood Dick’s Deliverance, 5615 Deadwood Dick’s Protegee. 522 Deadwood Dick’s Three. 529 Deadwood Dick’s Danger Ducks, 584 Deadwood Dick’s Death Hunt. 5389 Deadwood Dick Jr., in Texan, 544 Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wild Weat Vidocq. 549 Deadwood Dick on His Mettle. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham, 561 Deadwood Dick In Boston. 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadelphia, 572 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Chicago. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler, 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. 82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot, 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 53 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team. 69 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter, or, The Boy Detective, 80 Rosebud Rob ha ugget Ned, the Knight. 4 Idyl, the Girl Miner}; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand. 88 Phetograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance. 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp, 96 Watch-Eye; or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City. 18 Jack Moyle the Young Speculater. 17 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 21 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. 25 Bonanza Bill, Miner. 88 Koss Bob the King of Bootblacks, 41 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent, 45 Captaie erret, the New York Detective; or, Boss Bob’s 088 JOD. New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. Nick of N pam fk ech rh lh rh ed jd Jed 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Vensamieguia) Hunter, 2 etective, 281 Denver Doll's Victory. 285 Denver Doll’s Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 291 Turk, the Boy Ferret. 296 Denver Doll's Drift; or, The Road Queen. 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the Sirl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport, 825 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia. 880 Little Quick-Shot; or, The Dead Face of Daggeraville. 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. 889 eugene Kita Racket. 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood. 858 Firet-Class Fred, ‘he Gent trom Gopher. 868 Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer or, The Lottery of Life 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize. 878 Nabob Ned; 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 Bicycle Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lode, 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Harry, the Base Ball Detective, 6 Sam Slabaides, the Begusr- Boy Detective. 484 Jim Beak amd Pal, Private Detectives. 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 486 Sealskin Sam, the Sparkler. BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm. F. Cody). 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairie, Deadly-Eye, the Bobnewh Scout. Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 358 Faney Frank of Colorado}; or, The Trapper’s Trast, BY CHARLES MORRIS, 118 Will Somers, the Boy Detective. 122 Phil Hardy, the Boss Boy. 126 Picayune Petes or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. 180 Detective Dick; or, The Hero in Rags. 142 Handsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, Will Wildtire, the Thoroughbred. Black Beas, Will Wildfire’s Racer. 157 Mike Merry, the Harbor Police Boy. Will Wildfire in the Woods. Billy Baggage, the Railroad eh A ‘Trump Card or, Will Wildfire Wins and Loses, Bob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York, ob Rockett, the Bank Runner, The Hidden itand; or, Will Wildfire’s Revenge. Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy; or, The Smugglers, Bob Rockett; or, Driven to the Wall. Shadowed; or, Bob Rockett’s Fight for Life, Dark Paul, the Tiger King. Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective. 220 ‘Tom Tanner}; or, The Biack Sheep of the Flock. 225 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky. 285 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy. 2A2 The Two ** Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang. 252 Dick Dashaway ¢ or, A Dakota Boy in Chicago. 262 Vhe 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-Hound; or, The Young Thoroughbred. 805 Dashaway, of Dakota; or, A Western Lad in the Quaker City. ’ $24 Ralph Ready, the ‘Jotel 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 Levelers or, Thé Bloods of the Boulevard. 408 Firelly Jack, the River-Rat Detective. 423 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, 566 The Secret service Boy Detective. BY OLL COOMES. 5 Vagahond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew, 18 The Dumb Spy. 27 Antelope Abe, the Boy Guide. 81 Keen-Knife, the Prince of the Prairies. 41 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. 58 The Border King: or, The Secret Foe. 71 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. 74 Wawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ranger, 88 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. 184 Sure Rhot Seth, the Boy Rifleman, 148 Secar-Face Saul, tle 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 Trapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain, 202 Prospect Pete 3 or, The Young Outlaw Hunters, 208 The Boy Hercules: or, The Prairie Tramps, 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 irs Dick; or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Diaguined Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 272 Minkakin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. 200 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spy. 800 The Sky Demon ; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger, 884 Whip-King Joe, the Boy Ranchero. 409 Hereules; or, Dick, the Boy Ranger. 417 Webfoot Mose, the Tramp Detective. 422 Baby Sam, the Boy Giant of the Yellowstone. 444 Little Buckskin, tne Young Prairie Centaur, 457 Wingedtoot Fred; or, Old Polar Saul. 468 Tamarac ‘l'om, the Big Trapper Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemte, 482 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Trojan. 562 Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper. BY T. C. HARBAUGH. 28 Nick o’ the Night}; or, Th» Boy Spy of 776. 87 The Hidden Lodge}; or The Little Hunter, 47 Nightingale Nat; or, Tne Forest Captains, 64 Dand nek or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trail, 82 Kit Warefoot the Weod-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack 3 or, The Bey Trapper. 106 Old Froaty, the Guide; or, The White Queen. 128 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch, Jr.: or, The Boy Vigilante, 155 Gold Tr grer, the Sport; or, The Girl Avenger. 169 Tornado ‘Tom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core, 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy. 198 Arkansaw ; or, The Queen of Fate’s Revenge, 207 Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain Bullet; or, Little Topknot’s Crusade. 281 Plucky Phil; or, Rosa, the Ret Jezebel. 241 Bill Bravo; or, Tie Roughs of the Rockies, 255 Captain Apoli , te King-Pin of Bowle. 267 The Buckskin Detective. 279 Old Winch; or, The Buckskin Desperadoes, 294 Dynamite Dan; or, The Bowie Blade of Cochetopa, 802 The Mountain Detective ; or, The Trigger Bar Bully. 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizona, 826 The Ten Pards; or. The Terror of Take-Notice. 8836 Big Benson; or, The Queen of the Lasso. 845 Pitiless Matt; or, Red Thunderbolt’s Secret, $56 Cool sam und Pard; ov The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlass; or, |! he B-ccaneer’s Girl Foe. 896 Rough Rob; or, The !win Champions of Blue Blazes. 411 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 3 or, ‘Uhe Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. 47? The Exceisior Sport: or, The Washington Spotter, 499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night Ferret. 512 Dodger Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective, 521 Dodger Dick’s« Beast Dodge. 528 Fox and Falcon, the Bowery Shadows, 588 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret. 548 Dodger Dick’s Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives. 558 Dodger Dick’sa Desperate Case. 568 Dodger Dick, the Boy Vidocq. 578 The Two Shadows, BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, ? The Flying Yankee} or, The Ocean Outcast. 17 Ralph io yy the Boy Buccancer; or. The Fugitive Yacht, 24 Diamond Dirk pon The Mystery of the Yellowstone. 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants. 75 The Boy Duelist; er, The Cruise of the Sea- Wolf. 02 Dick Done ene the Boy Smuggier. 11 The Sea-Devil; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 16 The Hussar Captain 3 or, ‘The Hermit of Hell Gate. 97 Little Grit; or, Bessie, the Stock-Tender’s Daughter. 04 Gold Plume} or, The Kid-Glove Sport, 216 Bison BILL, the Prince of the Reins. R22 Grit, the Bravo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer. 229 Crimson Kate; or, The Cowboy’s Triumph. 237 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 245 Merle, the Middy 3 or, The Freelance Heir. 250 The Midshipman Mutineer}; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer. 264 he Floating Feather; or, Merle Monte’s Treasure siund. 269 The Gold Ship ; or, Merle, the Condemned. 276 Merle Monte « Orulse; or, The Chiuse of “The Golé Ship.’ 280 Merle Monte’s Fate; or, Pearl, the Pirate’s Bride, 284 The Sea Marauder; or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. 287 Billy Blue«Eyes, the Boy Rover of the Rio Grande. 804 The Dead Shot Dandy ; or, Benito, the Boy Bugler, 808 Keno Kit; or, Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. 814 ane Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Long: rail. 877 Bonodel, the Boy Rover; or, The Flagless Schooner, ” 888 The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island, 887 Warpath WIN, the Boy Phantom. 898 Seawalf, the Boy Lieutenant. 402 Isodor, the Young Conapirator; or, The Fatal Ler one. 407 The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta, 412 The Wild Yachtaman; or, The War-Cleua’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 ; or, A Middy’s Vengeance, 446 NMaphazard Harry; or, The Scapegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizard Will: or, The Boy Ferre: of New York. 454 Wizard Wills Street Scouts. 462 The Born Guide; or, The Sailor Boy Wanderer, 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Conster. A74 Flora; or, Wizard Will’s Vagabend Pard. 488 Ferrets Afloat; or, Wizard Wi))’s Last Case, 487 Nevada Ned, the Revoiver Kanger. 495 Arizona Joe the Boy Pard of Texas Jack. ’ 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 508 The Royal Middy 3 or, The Shark and the Sea Cat, 5607 The Hunted Midshipman. 511 The Outlawed Middy. 520 Buckskin BII, the Comanche Shadow. 525 Brothers in Buckskin. 580 The Buckskin Bowers. 5685 The Buc skin Rovers, 540 Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder of the Rio, 545 Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. 5b0 Lafitte’s Legacy: or. The Avenging Son, 555 The Creole Corsair. 560 Pawnee Bill, the Prairie Shadower. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King, 570 Camille, the Card Queen. . 657%5 The Surgeon-Scout Detective. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. B?? Pavement Pete, the Secret Sifter, By Jo Pierce. 578 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Afloat. By Edward L. Wheeler 579 The Chimney 8 or, Broadway Billy’s Surprise-Part By J. Seek a Tae ain 1 1 i 1 2 580 The Outenst Cadet; or, The False Detective. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. 581 Double-Ourve Dan, the Pitcher Detective. By George C, enks. 582 Dodger Dick’s Drop. By T. C. Harbaugh. 588 Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow. By Lieut. A. K, Sims, 584 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Denver. By Ed. L, Wheeler, 585 Will Waters, the Boy Ferret. By H, Enton. 586 The Buckskin Avenger. By Col. Prentiss Ingrabam, B87 Old Bombshell, the Ranger Detective. By Wm, G. Patten, BS8 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. By Jo Pierce, 589 Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Dead Set at Silver City. By Lieut. A. K, Sims. 590 Deadwood Dick, Jr’s., Decree. By E. L. Wheeler, 591 Delmonte, the Young Sea-Rover. By Col. P Ingraham, 592 The Boy Pinkerton. By J. C. Cowdrick. 598 Keen Clem, the Ranch Imp. By P. 8. Warne. 594 Little Lon, the Street-Singer Detective. By T. C. Harbaugh. 595 Deadwood Dick Jr. in Beelzebub’s Basin. By E-. L. Wheeler. 596 Jimmy the Kid; or, A Lamb Among Wolves. By Chas, orris. 5697 The Young Texan Detective. By Col. P. Ingyaham, BS Flute, the Singer Detective. By Geo. C. Jenks. 599 Jim Dandy, the No-Name Sport. By P. 8. Warne. 600 Deadwood Dick Jr. at Coney Island. By Edward L. veler, 601 Happy Hans, the Dutch Vidocg; or, Red-Hot Times at Rocritips By Lieut. A. K. Sins. 602 The Vagabond of the Mines. By Col, P. Ingraham, 608 Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer. By Jo. Pieree. 604 Iron Fern, the Man of Fire. By Wm, G, Patten, Ready February 19. 605 William 0’ Broadway3 or, The Boy Detective’s Big In- S ning. By J. C, Cowdrick. Ready February 26 606 Deadwood Dick Jr’s Leadville Lays; or, Bristol and ey Bneket's oom. By E. L. Wheeler. Ready March 5. 607 The Rover Detectives or, Keno Kit’s Champions. By Col, P. Ingraham. Ready Mareh 12. ther Detective’a Foil; or, Double Curve Dan's a Bes Piss By Geo, C. Jenks. Ready March 19. lly Dorrit, the Veteran Detective; or, Little Lightning’. 609 Bolly ee By’ John W. Osbon, Ready March 26. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, ive cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of alx cents each. BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Yerk. (oes, eu « = “~ & hy ; ys