Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 399) (1885 03 17)
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cated EDITION \) Oey E homes, La % ee S SSS Se =) | r, ag, ees ~ : . mais a “ii . \\ ; - . oN Ko aa yet a fF ~~) \N SS) @> \ Ww (— x & 9 X N Woosant \ aa 20 senna ) ot x ~ AN SSS A LOMA Wi MW. SARA G0 Hag |! nL rie yun SMA y mon } - Jl | rr Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. Entered at the Copyright, 1885, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, Single PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, Vol. XV * Number. No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. No. 399. WS SSS ~~ SSS The Masked Men of Death Canyon. BY COL, ARTHUR F. HOLT. CHAPTER I. LIGHTNING DICK’S WARNING, Ir was not yet sunset, but in the gloomy depths of Death Canyon, where the rays of the sun never Neastrated: weird, fantastic shadows already begun to wrap things in their em- brace. A dismal place was Death Canyon, and no mistake, and the ominous name it bore was apt- ly applied. On either hand a stupendous wall of rock rear- ed itself on high, the precipitous sides bleak and en beg grceioge Aad all ne gage save here and here a y pine or a clinging vine or Teta top tar, tar t the top—far, up—a glimpse of blue sk was obtainable. en fi At one side of the can on & mountain stream, snail but turbulent, rusbed leaping and swirling “WHAT ON AIRTH AIR YE FELLERS SQUINTIN’ aT?’ HE INQUIRED. “ONE ’D THINE on ite way. A CIROUS HED CUM TER TOWN.”
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| On the other side, close to a precipitous bank overlooking the stream, was a rough, hal:- broken trail, so narrow at some points that it seemed impossible for a vehicle of ordinary size | to pass in safety. Over this trail one afternoon, just as the dark- ; ness was beginning to settle over the gulch, a | clumsy-looking stage-coach rolled noisily on its way. Drawn by four spirited horses, the huge vehicle lumbered over the pt. 0 trail, jouncing azainst bowlders, rocking and swaying violent- ; ‘ly trom side to side, until it seemed almost a miracle that the coach did not topple over the brink and crash down upon the jagged rocks below. But an experienced driver held the reins—a stalwart six-footer known in that section as Four-in-hand Joe, whose ‘skill and nerve were second to none, as was shown by the masterly | manner in which he handled the ribbons. Inside the vehicle were the passengers—six in number, four of whom were rough, bearded miners; the other couple, however, are deserving of more than passing notice. One was a, gentleman of fifty or thereabouts, dressed in the latest fashion, about whom was an air of polish and refinement. He sported valuable rings and diamond studs, while a mas- sive gold chain dangled from his vest, Beside him sat a young lady of eighteen sum- mers, evidently his daughter, as pretty as a picture, and seeming as much out of place among*her rude surroundings as a rose among thorns. Her brown eyes ‘sparkled brightly, and her rose-bud lips parting, revealed two rows of pearly teeth, as she chatted,gayly with her. companion. On rolled the stage, bounding and jouncing ovor projecting rocks, to the great discomfiture of the passengers’ inside, while, perched on his elavated seat, Four-inzhandJoe cracked his whip and shouted to the leaders, as they tore along over the trail. _ Down the gulch the for they were behint mined to make.it up. s The coach swayed from side to side, and at times the wheels ran within three inches of the brink, while the passengers. inside clung desper- vtely to the seats, expecting every moment to be precipitated into theaushing’ torrent below. But Four-in-hand J6e knew what he was about, ‘and guided by his skillful hand, the horses kept safely on over the perilous course. * Halt! Hands up!” Sharp and stern these words suddenly rung oub upon the air,coming from a point directly in front of the méving coach. The driver heard but evinced no surprise. “Hello!” he ‘muttered. ‘Lightning Dick is out after toll.” And with the utmost coolness, he gave a long, steady pull that brought the horses to a halt im- mediately. Then with his hands elevated above his head, he sat patiently awaiting further develop- ments. Four-in-hand Joe had learned from experience that it was not safe to resist under such circum- stances, As the stage halted, a band of men emerged from the dense shadows and surrounded it. Several of them carried torches, and by the light of these it could be seen that they all wore ep hats and masks, and were armed with re- volvers, Two of the road-agents held the horses, while The remainder drew up beside the stage, covering its occupants with their weapons. Then a slender, athletic young fellow who seemed to be in command, advanced. to the side of the vehicle and opened wide the door. ‘* Hands up, gentlemen!” he exclaimed, sternly, in a voice that was evidently disguised. ‘‘ Sorry to trouble you, but if you wish to pass over this trail you must pay the toll. So step out, gents, an’ shell out your valuables. Hurry, now, or TU give you a taste of cold lead!” And to emphasize his words, the road-agent thrust a cocked revolver in close proximity to the head of the nearest passenger. The miners, perceiving the uselessness of resis- tance, reluctantly came out one by one, and were speedily relieved of what valuables they possessed, dashed at a reekless s ead, time, and Joe was deter- Thé gentleman, too, had left the vehicle, and | was about to assist his daughter to alight, when the road-agent turned to him. “There is no necessity for the young lady to toave the coach,” he said. ‘As for you, sir, I vvish to speak a word with you in private. Step this way, please!” ‘ei if y Black Bocksiin' The outlaw’s speech was courteous enough now, and the passenger followed him without hesitation. Indeed, he knew that it would be folly to re- | fuse; besides, he felt a curiosity to know what the man in the mask, had to say to him. The road-agent strode away until they were out of ear-shot of the others. Then he turned abruptly, and faced the’man | who had followed him. ** Well!” said the latter, testily. you to say to me? valuables, of course, but you could have, taken them at the stage as well as here.” The road-agent laughed shortly. ‘“' You are mistaken, sir!” he exclaimed. ‘I do not intend to take a cent of yours, Charles Castleton.” The man addressed started violently, and stared at the bandit in amazement. ‘You called me Charles Castleton,” he ex- claimed in surprise. ‘* Who in the fiend’s name are you, that you should know my name?” The outlaw chuckled grimly. “Who am I?” he reiterated, ‘‘ Well, I'm ‘* What have You want my money and | | known in these regions as Lightning Dick, road- | agent, boss of Death Canyon, as any one who | knows can tell you. But you admit, then, that I struck your handle correctly?” ‘““You gave my name all right, sir, if that is what you mean,” answered Castleton, a little stiffly. a Rxactly. You are Castleton, late of St. Louis. You're a banker; the girl in the coach is your daughter Cora; you are on your way to the town of Bullion City, where you intend to engage in business, Am I right?” Charles Castleton glared at the masked out- law as if he saw a ghost. ** Where in the name of Heaven did you gain your information?” he demanded. ‘* Yow seem to know my business better than I do myself. Are you man or devil?” Again did Lightning Dick laugh as if highly amused. **T’m a man, I hope,” he said in answer to the banker’s puzzled inquiry, ‘though most of the inhabitants believe that I’m in some way related to his Satanic Majesty. As to how I obtained my information, that must remain a secret. Suffice it to say that I know it.” ‘* Well, Sir Road-Agent,” said Castleton, net- tled by the cool demeanor of the man who con- fronted him, ‘‘ this is wasting time. I don’t know you from Adam, and it puzzles me to comprehend how you learned so much about my private affairs; but I don’t see how it concerns you in any way, so with your kind permission I will now return to the coach,” He turned to go, but the hand of the bandit fell upon his arm and detained him. “Easy, my friend!” exclaimed Lightning ee coolly. ‘I have something more to say.” “ y Tell.” “*T wish to inform you, to begin with, that what I have to say is for your good. You've often heard, no doubt, the old saying to the effect that the devil is not so black as he is painted. Neither is Lightning Dick such a fiend as he is said to be. I wish to convince you of my good intentions, and give you a little advice which I trust you will heed, for your daughter's sake if not for your own.” ‘**T am listening, so proceed with your good advice,” said the banker, sarcastically. ‘Well, to commence with, you are not aware of the true nature of the camp which is your destination. You imagine that ‘Bullion City is in some degree civilized, but you will be greatly disappointed when you arrive there. It isa mere mining-camp, just started, with more saloons than dwellings, and the inhabitants make up the toughest crowd to be found this side of Lead- ville. Gamblers, blacklegs, ruffians arid bum- mers are there in all their glory, and there are not a dozen decent men in the wholecamp. You fan see, yourself, that it would be a bad place ae your daughter, to say nothing of your- self. “Tlladmit that, sir, providing what you say is true,” said the banker, somewhat impressed by the words of the road-agent. ‘‘But what would you have me do—turn back?” ‘* That would be by far the safest course, I'll allow,” said Lightning Dick, ‘‘and I should fol- low it if I were you.” Charles Castleton hesitated a moment ere he spoke. “Pon my word, Lightning Dick, as you call yourself, I don’t know what to make of you,” he then said, candidly. to me, yet you are a bandit. your face—” Lightning Dick shook his head negatively. ‘* You seem t be a friend If I could only see ) ‘That is impossible,” he said decidedly. ‘TI never unmask.” “Well,” said the banker, after a moment's silence. ‘‘Here is my decision. I started for Bullion City and to Bullion City I shall go. I thank you for your warning, and shall keer a sharp lookout, trusting in my own ability to protect myself and daughter from all harm.” The road-agent chief bowed coldly. “Very well,” he said. ‘ Act your own plea- sure, ou'll soon see the time, mark my words, when you'll wish you bad taken my advice and fled from that aceursed town. However, should evil befall you, remember that you have a true friend and benefactor in Lightning Dick.” And as the road-agent ceased speaking, he turned on his heel and disappeared in the dark- ness, leaving the banker to retrace~his steps to the coach. Then a shrill whistle rung out, and the out- laws surrounding the vehicle vanished in the shadows as if by magic. Four-in-hand Joe whipped up his animals, and once more the stage rattled down the guich. Leaning back in his. seat, Charles Castleton pondered upon the events that had, just tran- spired. ‘***Pon my word,” he soliloquized, ‘‘ things are beginning to grow interesting already: I'd give a cool thousand to see the face of that chap who styles himself Lightning Dick. How he obtain- ed a knowledge of my affairs is a problem that bothers me. He seemed friendly enough, but he may be playing some deep game, However, time will tell!’ And the stage rolled on toward Bullion City. CHAPTER II. ENTER HURRICANE KIT. NESTLED among the mountains, a few miles beyond Death Canyon, was the place which bore the euphonious name of Bullion City. It was a mere mining-camp, that had sprung up less than six months before, and consisted of rude,miners’ shanties, several saloons and gam- bling-dens, a “hotel” and! a building which answered the double purpose of store and post- office: The inhabitants weré about two hundred in number, and comprised miners, Biers, ad- venturers, thieves and bummers, the former be- ing considerably in the minority. Bullicn City was scarcely the’ place for a re- spectable man, it must be confessed. In the saloons, oily-tongned sha’ s fleeced unwary “ pilerims” to their hearts’ content, while the reckless men who prowled abcut the town seeking for plinder rendered it unsafe to be out at night unless well-armed. In addition to this, a daring band of road- agents under Lightning Dick kept the town in a continual state of excitement by their aude- cious raids and robberies. Taking it all in all, Bullion City had won an unénviable reputation for being the worst place of its size in that region. As before ped saloons were vumerous, they being rough board structures, with a single exception, This one was the popular resort rejoicing in the appellation of Ethe Gambler’s Paradise,” owned by the leading man in the place. It was a large, well-built structure, contrast- ing most favorably with the others; and into it we would have the reader accompany us on the night following the scenes depicted in our first chapter. Upon passing through the door we find our- selves ina large apartment; a bar runs along one side of it, behind which a hard-looking char- acter handed out the vile mixture called for by the row of thirsty mortals who,ranged on the other side. The room was filled with loungers, who in turn filled the air with tobacco smoke and fumes of whisky, while songs, caths and ribald jests were continually heard. It wasa hard crowd that nightly assembled inthe bar-room of the Gambler’s Paradise, and no mistake, as could be readily seen by glanc- ing over their crime-stained features. In the rear of the bar-room, and separated from it by a stout partition through which a door was cuf, was another apartment, well- furnished with all the appliances for gambling. A faro-bank was in full blast at one end of the room, a three-card monte man held sway at the other, while various other games were in new at the tables. ere were to be met men of different types— gamblers and sports in their inevitable suit of proadcloth, spotless shirt-front and spar’ diamond pin; miners who, after toiling t a -_ on
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PN ES See —. im ‘tf, be s i SER Selah eee oe satin celtiines gore a — Fortune and try to increase their pile; idlers who, in the vernacular of the mines, were * clean bu’sted,” but who lounged about, watching the different games in progress and patiently wait- ing for something to turn up. On this particular evening, the Gasnbler’s Paradise was, as usual, well patronized, nearly all the tables being occupied. A crowd was Caner eaaees around the monte- dealer, who was using both tongue and fingers with astonishing rapidity. “Walk up hyar, gents!” he was shouting. “Cum up an’ make yer fortune. Hyar it is, jest as simple as breathin’. I jest take ther eerds—ye see em hyar, ther queen o’ diamonds, ing o’ hearts an’ ace o’ spades—an’ shuffle ’em, so,” executing the movement with lightnin -like swiftness. ‘Then I sling em down, back up an’ pick out ther ace, so! It’s easy énuff. All done by a simple twist o’ the wrist, an’ hyar’s ten dollars a-waitin’ for ther galoot who kin do it. Come, now, plerios, hyar’s a chance to make a stake. tep up an’ set ther ball a-rollin’.” ‘s Hey, squire, d’ye mean ter say thet ye’ll gi’ me a tén if I'll pick, eout ther ace o’ spades?” de- manded a voice in the rear. Ali turned and beheld a most curious specimen of humanity standing just within the door. He was six feet in hight, straight as an ar- row, with broad, powerful chest and long arms, while his face was covered with a short, stubby beard. His garments consisted of a black, swallow- tail coat, yellow vest from which hung a large brass chain, and striped, tight-fitting ntaloons tucked into heavy cowhide boots, wile tipon his head a battered stove-pipe hat was rakishly placed. It was evident that there was hayseed in his hair, and how he came to be in Bullion City was a mystery to the occupants of the room, who, upon sight of the strange apparition in the door- way, burst into loud ls of laughter. There was a shrewd twinkle in the sharp, blue eyes of the countryman, as he peered at the or congregation from under his shaggy TOWS. Unabashed by the battery of curious eyes, he advanced boldly into the room. ‘+s What on airth air ye fellers squintin’ at?” he inquired, ‘‘One’d think a circus hed cum ter town, Bless yer, gentlemen, I’m only Jonathan Jinks, late of Cornville, down in Maine, an’ I’ve cum ter this kentry ter seek my fortune, same as you-uns. Didn’t yer ever see & gentle- man afore?” The crowd ted this blunt speech with shouts of laughter and ooring remarks, but to this the man from Maine paid no further heed. Ignoring the shouts and questions that assailed him, he pushed his way up to the monte dealer, repeating the inquiry which he had made upon entering the room, The s pe Fee broad \ 7, as with a rapid glance he noted the green an innocent appear- ance of the countryman. Here was an excellent op rtunity to rope in a greenborn, and the gambler was determined to play him for all he was worth. “Yas, pig, he promptly responded, in reply to Jonathan’s inquiry. ¢ Ye struck ther nail on the head thet time. ‘ Thar’s a tenner in my pocket thet’s waitin’ for ther galoot who picks out ther ace. Put up yer money an’ try yer luck.” “You kin bet yer boots, sonny,” cried Jona- than Jinks, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. ‘* Yer uncle is on ter thet ey’ry time.” Out came a = pirtnge pocketbook, from which the man from Maine extracted a ten, which he flourished before the nose of the monte dealer. Proceed, ole hoss!” he cried, ‘* Start up ther cireus.” The gambler carelessly nicked up the cards and commenced to shuffle them. j He was an adept at his profession, as was shown by the way he manipulated the paste- boards. His fingers moved like enining, while the keen eyes of the countryman followed every motion. Finally the dealer spread the cards, face down, upon the table. ‘‘There ye are!” he remarked, laconically. “ Pick ont ther ace, pilgrim.” Jonathan scratched his head, looked sharply at the cards, then scratched his head again, ve his trowsers a hitch, squirted something Toes than a pint of tobacco-juice upon the floor, and laid his brawny hand upon a card. He held it up to view, a grin of satisfaction es are . Black Bucks the Jay, had come to tempt the fickle goddess | overspreading his features, and all saw that it es. “You've won,” said the dealer, coolly, as he handed over the stake. ‘‘ Shall we try again?” “Wal, I ‘reckon so,” responded Jonathan, romptly. ‘Ye kin count me in fer another. Make it a twenty, hey?” ‘¢ Done!” said the monte sharp, coolly. The money was put up and covered, the cards were again shuffled, and again did the man from Maine turn up the winning ace. Jinks threw up his hat and shouted in his en- thusiasm. ‘Hooray!’ he yelled. ‘Ther twenty is mine, Shuffle ’em up ag’in, ole hoss!” This the gambler did, though with a show of reluctance, and the result was the same as be- fore. There was a broad grin upon the face of the elated countryman, as he pocketed his winnings, while the dealer appeared somewhat nettled and excited. “See hyar!” he exclaimed. “Them small bets are bringin’ yer luck. Make it bigger, an’ I'll bet ye’ll lose.’ ‘‘Sartain, ole hoss!” promptly replied Jona- than, catching at the bait. ‘‘ Name yer vile.” ‘Call it a cool thousan’,” said the eS producing the money. Jonathan uttered a low whistle, but without hesitation he covered the deposit with an equal amount in crisp, new bills. There was a peculiar smile on the sharp coun- tenance of the gambler, as he rapidly manipu- lated the cards, while those in the room who knew the tricks of the monte-man exchanged expressive winks and grins. ‘Here ye hev ’em!” cried the dealer, as he threw down the cards. ‘Pick ther ace an’ take ther thousand.” Jinks had sharply watched the movements of the gambler, and now with the utmost confi- dence he placed his hand upon a card. But it was not the ace! The sharper chuckled, the lookers-on grinned broadly, while Jonathan glared at the cards with a ludicrous look of astonishment and dis- gust upon his face. He had been taken in and done for, and no mistake. There was a moment's silence, which was broken by the dealer. ‘‘-You’ve lost, old man, an’ I opine I'll take thet stake,” he remarked coolly, as he reached out for the pile of greenbacks, a grin of triumph upon his ugly countenance. ‘‘ Hold on, there! Touch that money, and off goes your head!” Every man in tle room started violently as these words, sharp and stern, rung out upon the air with startling distinctness. They came from a person who had entered the room unperceived, and who now stood just behind the countryman. _ He was a youth of twenty or thereabouts, tall and shapely as Apollo, with the physique of a Hercules and the face of an Adonis—the very perfection of grace and strength. His eyes were sharp and piercing, and a hand- some mustache adorned his lip. He was appareled in a neat, close-fitting suit of a dark material, which set off his graceful form to splendid advantage. Firm and cool he stood there, one hand rest- ing carelessly upon his hip, the other holding a polished revolver, the muzzle of which frowned threateningly upon the monte dealer. ‘* Throw up your hands, you infernal cheat!” he continued in the same stern accents, ‘‘or Dll fill your miserable carcass full of lead.” The crowd fell back precipitately, while the gambler glared fiercely at the intruder. However, it was evident that the young stranger was in deadly earnest, and, under the persuasive influence of the weapon staring him in the face, the card-sharp quailed. ‘“‘ Who'n blazes are you?” hesnarled, savagely, as with extreme reluctance he elevated his hands above his head. The new-comer laughed coolly. ‘“ Tt’g none of your business who I am,” he re- torted. ‘* However, I don’t mind telling you that I sometimes am called Hurricane Kit. You may have heard of me.” he gambler started, as did many others, for they had most of them heard of Hurricane Kit, who had the reputation of being a model of strength and bravery, and a terror to eyil- doers. The monte dealer cast a furtive glance about the apartment, and saw that many of his friends were near by; this seemed to inspire him with confidence. “Ye kin be Hurricane Kit er ther devil—I — don’t keer which,” he exclaimed, with an air of bravado. ‘What d’yer mean by stickin’ yer nose around whar ye ain’t wanted, an’ bu’stin’ up a fair an’ ext game in this way?” The youth who had called himself Hurricane Kit laughed amusedly. “Fair and square!” he reiterated. “Ha, hal That’s good. Why, Mister Man, you're the most infernal liar in existence! The game you are playing, far from being square, 15 @ decided + ” skin. face of the gambler fairly blazed with The wrath. ‘Tt’s a lie!” he yelled. ‘‘I defy you to prove ‘TJ will at once proceed to do so,” answered the young adventurer, promptly, “and I call upon you, gentlemen, to see that I am cor- rect.” “Go ahead, ele hogs!” exclaimed Jonathan Jinks, excitedly. ‘‘If ther durn galoot has cheated, I'll wring his blasted neck, so now!” “* Ay, let us hev fair play an’ no trickery,” as- sensed several of the miners, while the numerous friends of the sharper said nothing, but hovered near, glowering upon the bold young intruder antl his friends. Well, to begin with,” said Hurricane Kit, ad- dressing the, gambler, ‘‘we have here three cards, one of which is the ace of spades. Now, as our friend, here, failed topick outthe winning card, it must be one of the remaining two. Ata I right in my supposition?” The dealer nodded assent, “We will see if it ‘is so,” continued E°t, ec > ly. ‘Gentlemen, one of you turn up tho carcs on the table. If the game is on the square, ©7-¢ of them must be the ace of es A miner advanced and picked up the cards. Neither was the ace. Hurricane Kit turned triumphantly upon the crowd. “You see that I am right,” he exclaimed. “The scoundrel played this man for a sucker, allowing him to win small sums at first to make him confident. Then as soon as a large amour? was wagered, he juggled the ace and put, an- other card in its place. Of course it was impcs- sible to pick out the ace when there was no such card there.” Jonathan Jinks listened to the explanation in open-mouthed amazement. “ Je-rusalem!” he cried. ‘ What a gokdarn fool I was tew git sucked in that way. But where in Jericho did ther ace go tew?” “Tl show you,” said the youth, and seizing the gambler’s arm he gave it a hearty shale. Several cards dropped to the floor, among them being the missing ace of spades. “That settles it;” cried the countryman, look- ing daggers and pitchforks at the discomfited gambler. ‘“‘ Let me get holt on ye, ye miserable snipe, an’ I'll chaw ye inter mince-meat!” onathan started forward, vengeance gleam~- ing in his eye, but Hurricane Kit stretched out his powerful arm and restrained him. oRasy, ard!” he exclaimed. ‘‘ We want no trouble. bye exposed his little game, and that’s enough. Scoop in the stakes—they belong to 7 you. Thus directed, the man from Maine keted the money, much to the chagrin of the card- sharp, who dared not try to prevent him with the muzzle of Hurricane Kit’s revolver staring him in the face. The latter nodded approvingly, and was about to withdraw the siege of his weapon, when the sudden tramp of feet was heard in the next room, The next instant the door flew violently open, and a man rushed into the apartment as if on business bent. CHAPTER IIL. WHO FIRED THE SHOT? Tur individual who so cam sagt entered the gaming-room of the ‘‘Gambler’s Paradise ” was a man of striking appearance. He was of middle age, tall and straight, with broad chest and shoulders and muscular arms. is hair was jetty black, and a pair of piercing eyes glittered from beneath their shaggy brows; a fierce, brigandish-looking mustache adorn his lip. He wed dressed in the finest broadcloth and linen; patent-leather shoes incased his feet, while a stylish silk hat was placed rakishly wpon his head. A massive gold chain dangled from his ves*, numerous rings glittered upon his fingers, while a big solitaire flashed from his spotless bosom. It would require but a single glance for one acquainted with Western ways to determine the character of this individual. a
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hi ee a a Gambler and sport he was without a doubt, and his muscular frame and stern, harsh fea- tures gave evidence that he was a tough customer to handle. He was evidently well known to the assem- blage, for more than one brawny man shrunk back as he entered the room, while from lip to lip ssed the name: ic Black Gaspard!” No wonder the miners started and greeted his entrance with looks of awe, for Black Gaspard, as he was called, was known in the camp as the King of Gamblers and the recognized Oboes ” of Bullion City. He it was, so twas said, who had discovered the rich ore-beds in the gulch, something less than a year before. At first he, with a few companions, kept the discovery to themselves, but when others came flocking to the spot, he wisely staked out claims and sold them at round prices to the new- comers, In this manner he made fully as much money as by working the mines himself, and as the new camp increased in. population, so did the wealth and popularity of Black Gaspard. He was owner and proprietor of ‘The Gamabler’s Paradise,” axa his skill with the boands had won for him the title of ‘‘ Gam- ler King.” Black Gaspard possessed great influence among the rough and ready denizens of Bullion City, among whom his word was law, Such was the man who strode inte the gaming- room, and those who knew him scented rain I ead. Black Gaspard took in the situation at a single glance, and his eyes snapped venomously as » advanced toward the spot where Hurricane Kit was standing. “What's the trouble hyar?” he demanded, as he confronted the youth. ‘“‘Who’n blazes are a young feller, sailin’ round hyar with your kers, turnin’ my place into a shootin’-gallery? What's the rumpus, eh?” Hurricane Kit lowered his pistol, and turning carelessly around, faced the Gamblor King. ‘* Allow me to answer your question, Yankee fashion, by asking another,” he said, pleasantly. “Who in Old Harry are you ?” “‘[Tl let you know who I am in short order,” snarled Black Gaspard, nettled by the noncha- lanes of the youth whom hesought to intimidate. “*T'm boss hyar, an’ I don’t propose to have my establishment turned into’a shootin’-gallery by any young vagabond who may chance to come along. Dye understand that?” Hurricane Kit’s lips compressed, and his eyes “* Now look here, Mister Man,” he exclaimed, tones which showed that he meant business, “‘T don’t want to have any trouble with you or any one else, but it seems to me some ono is ing a little too personal. I think you said something about vagabonds. Will you please ig, ok pond remark, and say it slow?’ was a murmur of mingled rise and admiration, as these bold words fell from the lips of the y stranger. It was some g new to have a man face Black in such a manner, and those in th iate vicinity discreetly fell back a pore, having visions of flying bullets and a hot As = the bler King himself, he was for a moment utterly amazed, and he glared at the young man before him in speechless aston- ishment. “You young galoot!” he yelled, as soon as he found his tongue. ‘‘ Dare you talk to Black a da that way? Why, you young whelp, Tu you out into the streets in two seconds!” And the gambler advanced a step, as though about to execute his threat. He seemed to have forgotten that the youth still held his revolver in his hand, but this fact was ily recalled to his mind when the cold ba: of the weapon was suddenly placed against his temple. ““T wouldn’t advise you to try it on,” warned Hurricane Ki* in cool, provoking t.u.s, ‘One step furthers i you take the contents of this pill-box. Id . t want to quarrel, but whoever crowds on me, be he man or devil, will get as uood as he sends!” death, for he read a grim determination en the Pas te ae 2p ? "Blac Buokewi: : face of the youth who confronted him, and knew that the latter would not hesitate an in- stant in pulling trigger. Besides, he could see that several in the room, rough but honest miners, were inclined to side with Hurricane Kit, and the Gambler King was sensible enough not to risk a general row, | though he was greatly discomfited at being thus bearded in his own establishment by a mere youth, On this occasion he saw the policy of tempo- rary peace, though he was far trom being through with Hurricane Kit. The youth ha< incurred his lasting enmity, and he would seize the first opportunity to get even. ‘“*T don’t want to quarrel with you,” he said, with a smile that only half-concealed the fiend- ish look upon his dark face. ‘‘ But I tolerate no disturbance here. If you wish to remain and behave yourself, you can do so; otherwise, your room is better than your company.” A peculiar smile swept over Kit’s face as he noted the sudden change in the speech of the ambler, He comprehended the designs of the atter, and was not to be caught napping. ‘Thanks for your kind permission,” * said, with biting sarcasm, ‘‘but I generally pick my own company. I’ve seen enough of this place to convince me that honesty here is the exception and not the rule, andI think I'll seek a more con- genial place of amusement. “Tf your pride is wounded, Sir Gambler, and you hanker after satisfaction, I dare say you can find me somewhere about the camp, and I shall be most happy to oblige you or any of your friends. Until then, adios!” And lifting his hat in mock courtesy, Hurri- cane Kit backed through the open door, and vanished from the view of the discomfited gam- bler and his friends. Thecountryman had followed close at his heels and when once outside of the saloon, he grasped the hand of the youth and shook it heartily. ** You’ve gota powerful lot o’ sand, stranger,” he exclaimed, sdanivtantt “Allow me tew thank ye for your interference in my behalf, though I'm afeerd you’ve got yerself intew a muss, all on my account. Yeou’ve got that black chap in yender set dead ag’in’ ye, an’ eou’'ll get bit by him if yeou don’t look sharp. ey say he’s chain-lightnin’ let loose, an’ he’s got about ma? & man in ther camp at his back. tough crowd they are I reckon. Hurricane Kit laughed lightly. ‘“Thanks, my friend, for your warning,” he said. ‘‘This Black Gaspard may be a rough customer, but he'll find he has no mere boy to deal with. There'll be a surprise-party some- where in this vicinity, if he offers to molest me in the future.” "You've got the grit tew dew it, yes, sir-ee!” asserted the man from Maine, as he turned away. “I’ve got tew go, neow, but if ever yeou’re in a scrape an’ want an help, jest call on Jonathan J inka, an’ I reckon he'll be on hand. Good-night, ’squire!” And ueer-looking countryman, stridin;; away, vanished in the darkness. Hurricane Kit looked earnestly after his re- ceding figure. ‘* I wonder who the dickens that fellow is!” he soliloquized. ‘‘It’s my opinion that he’s no more of a countryman than I am, but is playing a part for some pee. This is a land, surely, chuck- of rogues and doubl wre However, Jonathan seems to be an honest fel- low, and it’s well to have a few such friends ina place like this.” The young man sauntered leisurely along the only street of the town, ruminating upon the events of the evening. ** Well,” he soliloquized, ‘‘I could not rest in a civilized place, but came back here in quest of further adventure, and the prospects are that I shall have my fill of it. Ive made a good begin- ning—made ene friend and Heaven knows how many enemies. The chances are that there’ll be some lively work soon, for tl. y say that Black Gaspard is the boss of the ‘imp, and that the majority of the citizens are his hirelings. How- ever, come what may, I shall not back out.” As he finished ing there came a bright flash, followed by the sha ro of a revolver, and 1 bullet whistled viciously by Kit’s head, grzing his temple. , It was a narrow escape, and even as it was the yor~~ man reeled and drop to” the earth, m _rentarily stunned by'the shock. Howover, he was quickly on ‘his feet again, and with a revolver drawn and ready for use, he dashed resolutely toward the spot from, whence the cowardly shot had been fired. He seon reached a large bowler, from behind which the would-be assassin had undeubtedly sat with his chair tipped . ing on a table, indolently puffing at a cigar. ‘ the brain of the gambler was activ ——— cornet ee sent his deadly missile, but no signs of a human being were to be seen. Kit realized the uselessness as well as danger of searching for bim in the darkness, for at that moment the assassin might be lurking near, waiting for an opportunity to complete his work, therefore, to cautiously retraced his steps. “The plot thickens!” he soliloquized. ‘ It’s plain to me that I’ve got a few fees in this camp, and they’re determined to wipe me out without delay. Ill have to play sharp to get ahead of ’em; soon as morning comes, I'll get on the track of the rascal who fired that shot if possible, Until then, I think I'll seek a safer place than this.” He walked on without further interruption; if any of the citizens had heard the pistol-shot, they paid no attention to it, such things being by no means uncommon in Bullion City. Reaching the “hotel,” a rude, unfinished structure, " engaged a room, and immediately retired, first taking care to secure the door. He was exceedingly weary, and quickly dropped into a sound slumber, remaining un- conscious of what was transpiring about him. Kit was awakened in the morning by the sun- beams, which straggled in through the numer- ous cracks and crevices, and played upon his face; and when he opened his eyes, they fell upon an object at sight of which the youth gave a violent start of surprise. Upon the op posite wall a sheet of paper was fluttering, held there by the keen point ofa bowie. Hurricane Kit was on his feet at a single bound, and he curiously examined the paper, which had been placed there while he slept. Written in a neat but hurried hand were these warning words: ‘Hurricane Kir:—Danger of which you little dream lies in your path, Enemies are on every hand, and unless you fly at once, you will never keave Tullion City alive. Ifyou are wise, you'll take the advice of a frieud and skip cre it is too late.” There was no signature to this terse warning, and Hurricane Kit scrutinized it in bewilder- ment. Who had placed it there? and how had the person, whoever he was, gained admittance to the room, when the door was securely fastened. from the inside? These were the questions the young man asked himself, and the last was speedily an- swered, as his gaze fell on the roof of the building. Over one corner of the apartment was a crevice of considerable dimensions, and a person could, after reaching tho roof, put in his arm and throw the knife and paper against the wall. This explained that problem, but Kit was still ed to think who his unknown friend could e, unless it was Jonathan Jinks, the country- man. Hurricane Kit stood for a moment deeply wrapped in thought. Suddenly he started up, tearing the missive into nts, ‘By Heaven!” he exclaimed. ‘‘ The one wh¢ wrote that warning may mean well, but I’m inclined Seon Ghat it’s all a trick, got up vy for the purpose 0’ me out of town. If that’s The igh find that I don’t scare worth a cent. e what may, I’m ready for it. There'll be no backing out on my i And there was a resolute look on the face ef the youth, that told her he meant every word that he said. CHAPTER IV. BLACK GASPARD’S VISIT. Back to the Gambler’s Paradise we would have the reader ae rd us, a short time after the departure of Hurricane Kit and Jena- than Jinks, the countryman. The excitement caused by the advent of the young adventurer had soon ceased, and now the usual routine of the place was going on, all forgetful of the events that had just trans- pired. ; A largecrowd filled the room, and the varj- ous games were in full blast. The three card monte tr" had recovered from his excitement, and was working his game as coolly as ever. In a distant corner of the apartment, seem- ingly unheedful of what was ening lace around him, Black Gaspard, the Gambler King ti back and his feet rest- t listlessness, at werk, t, and de- Yet, in te of his apparen He was thinking of Hurricane
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\ . f : _ Black Buckskin. ct te aig vising some way to dispose of the youth, whom he cordially hated. {t was the first time in the history of Bullion City that he had been opposed by any man, so it was natural that the proud and arrogant gambler should thirst for satisfaction. He was thinking of some way in which to get rid of Hurricane Kit without exposing himself to danger, for Black Gaspard was not fool enough to risk his own life against one who had the reputation of being a crack-shot and dare- devil fighter, when he could as well accomplish his purpose in a safer manner. Suddenly he thought of a plan which promised to be successful, and he slapped his thigh enthu- siastically. ‘“‘ Thave it!” he muttered. ‘‘ A beautiful plan, which can’t help working like a charm. a, ha! my bold young fellow, [ll soon have you in a fix of which you little think,” and a smile, fiendish and port in the extreme, swept over his swarthy face; as he settled back in his chair. Just then the shuffling of feet was heard, and the next moment a stranger dashed in through the door. He was a man of ordinary size, dressed in the rude garments characteristic of the miner, with a heavy beard of fiery red that concealed most of his face from view. He was a stranger to all present, but he strode into the gaming-room with as much independ- ence as if he were the proprietor thereof. ‘‘ Whoop!” he shouted, as he suddenly came to a halt in the middle of the room, “‘ Feller- raloots, let me interjuce myself! Tm Bill lower, from Gunnison, an’ down thar I’m reckoned the boss at keerds. I heard ye had a feller hyar called Gas Black-pard, er somethin’, who calls hisself ther Gambler King, an’ I’ve cum all ther way ter show thet he’s a liar, I kin beat him playin’, an’ hyar’s what sez so!” And as he finished speaking, the new-comer drew from his pocket a huge roll of greenbacks, which he flourished above his head. It was evident from his unsteady gait and reekless words that the fellow was half-drunk, and he was immediately surrounded by a crowd of idlers and sharpers, whose eyes were fixed longingly upon the displayed wealth. Several eagerly offered to play with him, but he waived them haughtily aside. ‘Clear out!” he cried. ‘‘ I’ve got no time ter ane on small fry I’m lookin’ fer big game. um, trot out yer boss card-juggler, an’ see me do him up. W eH At this.moment Black Gaspard, whose atten- tion had been attracted by the words of the miner, pushed his way through the crowd. * Hello! What's the rumpus here?” he de- manded, ‘I’m Black Gaspard, fellow. What do you want?” “Are you the feller who calls hisself the Gam- bler King?” inquired Bill Blower, eagerly. ‘Yes. that’s what men call me,” assented the sharper. “Then you’re my huckleberry. Ye claim ter be ther boss at keerds; so do I. I dare ye to lay a game to decide ther question,” Black Gaspard smiled, for he saw a splendid chance to increase his pile. ‘You're drunk, my friend, and you’re sure to lose,” he said, ‘‘ but if you wish to play, I can accommodate you.” ‘Hooray! ‘That’s ther way ter talk!” yelled Bill Blower, enthusiastically. ‘‘ Lead on, Mac- duff!” Black Gaspard led the way to a vacant table, while the crowd followed, to see the delegate from Gunnison plucked by their favorite. “T say,” exclaimed Bill Blower, glancing about him uneasily, ‘‘ I can’t play with all these galoots a-gapin’ at me. It makes my nerves unsteady. a’n’t ye got a place whar we kin be by ourselves?” 4 “Step right this way,” said Blatk Gaspard, promptly, and he led the way to a small apart- ment at one end of the building and ushered the miner in. “ This is my private room,” he remarked, as he closed the door. ‘‘Here we will be free from interruption. Name your game.” ‘*Poker’s my best holt, I opine.” “Good enough! Shall we play for a small stake to begin with?” ‘Small stakes be durned!” snorted the man from Gunnison. ‘ Thar’s no half-way biz about me I'll play one game, an’ Cpe up my bull pile ag'n’ an equal amount. ow does that) suit r ‘““ What's your pile?” “ A cool five thousan’, I reckon.” “Very well. That suits me oger ,” said the gambler, with a chuckle, as ed for his pocket-book. ver, and the dark barrel was now leveled pair. at the head of Black Gaspard. ly. ‘I can’t afford to let you take that stake, do you mean?” your head full of holes. stakes. there. transferred it from the gambler’s pocket to his own. but he valued his life too highly to resist, with a pistol staring him in the face. stranger went through his pockets, taking every- thing of value—rings, pin, and other articles all found their way into the pocket of the miner, dextrously with his ether hand. The money was put up and the game com- menced. Black Gaspard was confident of victory, yet, with such a large amount at stake, he played very carefully, and the game resulted in his favor. ‘““T told you that you’d lose,” remarked the Gambler King, complacently, as he reached out his hand to sweep the board. the—” “Hello! What Bill Blower had suddenly produced a revol- old on a bit, mister!” said the miner, cool- -” “Curse you!’ gasped the gambler. ‘“ What | away in his pocket, for he now possessed & ‘““T mean to get away with you, Black Gas- nard,” chuckled the other. “Hold up your 1ands, now, and don’t utter a sound, or bu bore Understand?” The Gambler King saw that he was fairly caught, and with a muttered oath he obeyed, knowing full well the danger of refusing. Bill Blower smiled approvingly. “Now fer biz,” he said, after pocketing the “'That’s a nice watch you have got Permit me to borrow it,” and he deftly Black Gaspard ground his teeth in his rage, With the utmost deliberation, the dare-devil who kept Gaspard covered, while he worked “There!” remarked the robber, coolly. ‘I think I’ve done a good night’s work, Black Gas- pard,” : “You have, curse you!” growled the gam- bler. ‘But I'll be even with you yet, you in- fernal thief!” The stranger chuckled. “Make no idle threats,” he said. ‘‘ Well, I must leave you now, By friend. If any one asks where your toggery has gone to, refer him to Lightning Dick, the road-agent.” ‘The deuce you say!” gas Black Gaspard, starting back in astonishment, as the man, with a mocking laugh, threw open the door and darted outside. As soon as he recovered from his surprise, the gambler rushed in pursuit. “Stop that man!” he yelled. “He's Light- ning Dick, the road- Bent. we him, I say!” Things looked rather blue for the outlaw chief, for a dozen men were between him and the door; but he proved equal to the emer- ency. * Swiftly raising his revolver, he fired at the single hanging-lamp that lighted the room. e bullet shattered the lamp, which was up- set, and the next moment the place was wrapped in darkness. Then came a rush, followed by pistol-shots, and for the next five minutes the Gambler’s Paradise was the scene of intense excitement. The tramping of feet, excited cries of the men and groans of the wounded, coupled with the crack of revolvers and the whizzing of bullets, made such a din that a_passer-by might have been led to believe that Pandemonium had sud- denly broken leose within the saloon, Finally, a light was procured, and the firing ceased, Then it was that the occupants of the saloon saw that they had been slaughtering their own friends, for several were stretched, dead or wounded, upon the floor. Lightning Dick, taking advantage of the con- fusion, had adroitly made his escape, and curses loud and deep fell from the lips of Black Gas- pard as he realized how he had been outwitted. Directly after reading the warning message, Hurricane Kit left the hotel, and sallied into the street, prepared for anything that might occur. He was resolved to boldly face his foes, no matter how many and powerful they might be, and to commence with, he intended to hunt for the person who had fired at him the night before, and trail him down if pote. With this intention, he rapidly made his way up the street, never pa had been fired. Once there, he commenced a careful search for some trace of the assassin, but he was doom- ed to disappeintment, for the ground in the ing untH he reached the bowlder from behind which the cowardly shot a ioe — aims. kn vicinity was hard and rocky, and not a foot- print could be distinguished. Kit uttered an exclamation of disgust. ‘‘ Baffled at the start, by Heaven!” he mutter- ed. “I can no more pick up the trail of the rascal here, than I could find the traditional needle in the haystack.” Somewhat discouraged: at being thwarted so soon, the young man glanced undecidedly about him. Suddenly a gleam of satisfaction flashed in his eyes, as, darting forward, he picked up an object that had hitherto escaped his observa- tion. It was a small silver button of peculiar shape and design, and it was with the utmost satis- faction that Hurricane Kit put it carefully clew. The owner of the button, he reasoned, was the man of whom he was in search; therefore, the first step was to find thagpersonage. This he determined to do without delay, and accordingly was about to retrace his steps to the camp, for he was now on the outskirts near the gloomy precincts of Death Canyon, when suddenly he was startled by a loud scream, that rung out on the clear morning air with startling distinctness. It was unmistakably a woman’s voice, and the young man was instantly on the qui vive. Ashe listened the sound was repeated, coming from beyond a sharp bend in the pass, and with- out an instant’s hesitation, he darted forward, drawing a revolver as he ran. Rounding the turn in the trail, Kit came upon a scene which caused his blood to boil. A short distance away, a young lady was struggling with a burly ruffian, and a cry of anger burst from the lips of the youth, as he dashed boldly forward to the rescue. The scoundrel saw him coming, and abandon- ing his evil designs, turned to flee, at the same time drawing a weapon and firing at the ad- vancing youth. The bullets sped harmlessly by the head of Hurricane Kit, who, with the rapidity of light- ning, raised his revolver and sent a shot in re- turn. He fired in. a hurry, almost ‘without taking aim, but, nevertheless, the bullet took effect, striking the fleeing man in the leg and causing him to fall like a log. Ere he could rise from the earth, Kit stood over him with leveled weapon. “Get up, you scoundrel!” he ordered stern- ly. ‘*Come, stand up, and let’s have a look at you!” * The ruffian, who was a brawny, murderous- looking specimen of humanity, sullen! did as directed, and stood cowering before young conqueror, ‘Tt would serve you just right to shoot you like a dog,” declared Kit, after looking sternly upon his captive fora moment. * However, I’m inelined to be merciful, and I'll give you a chance for your life. Skip, now, and if you're within range in ten seconds, I'll riddle your in- fernal carcass with bullets. Start!” The fellow was only too glad to get off so easi- ly, and he made himself scarce as quickly as his injured limb would allow. urricane Kit watched him until he disap- ared from sight, and then turned to the young ady, who had remained near by. = Oh, sir!” exclaimed the maiden, who was no other than Cora Castleton, the banker's daugh- ter. ‘“*How canI thank you for your inter- ference in my behalf?” : “By —, saying ncthing about it, miss,” responded Kit, with a light laugh. “ Permit me to escort you to your stopping-place, for this is scarcely a fit place for ladies, alone and un- protected, as you have already learned by expe- rience.’ The girl gladly acquiesced, and the couple turned their steps in the directicn of the town. On the way Cora explained that she and her father were stopping at the hotel, and that she had come out for a morning walk, as had been her custom in her Eastern heme, little dreaming of danger. The young lady proved to be a brilliant con- versationalist, and entertained her com on the way with a constant flow of bright and witty remarks; indeed, the young man was charmed by the beauty and grace of his fair ac- quaintance. The so-called hotel was seon reached—toe soon, in f for Kit, for in the society of the fair girl » ally wring fo: his and ; he would not have objected to walking all ay by her side. d Charles Castleton was standing upon the rat mani
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bey the hotel, anxiously awaiting the return of his daughter, :.d his brow grew as black asa thuader-cloud wien he beheld her accompanied by a perfect stranger. However, a few words from Cora speedily ex- plained matters, and the banker extended to Kit a hearty welcome. The youth was invited inside, and, by their united efforts, speedily made to feel at home. Some time was spent in pleasant conversa- tion, and then the young man, remembering that stern work was before him, took his de- parture, promising, however, to call again at the earliest opportunity. Hurricane Kit leisurely made his way down the street. His thoughts were on the pretty banker’s daughter, and he scarcely heeded what was taking pla-e near him. Suddenly he -ard the hum of excited voices, and, looking up, he was surprised to see that thc street ahead was filled with armed men. The mob was about two hundred yards away, and surging down thé street toward him, the men waving their arms and shouting wildly. Hurricane Kit stopped anc curiously eyed the approaching rabble. ‘ Hello!” he exclaimed. ‘‘Something’s in the | wind. Whatcan have happened to so greatly agitate the worthy cits of Bullion City?” Just then a man sprung from behind a neigh- horing cabin. It was Jonathan Jinks, the countryman, and ‘\e hurriedly approached the spot where Kit was tanding. ‘*Skoot, pard!” he warned, in a low voice. ‘* Them durned galoots are after yeou. Skip, I tell yeou!” And the next moment he had vanished, Kit was startled by the intelligence, and in- tantly he recalled the mysterious warning mes- vage of the morning. “ After me, are they?’ he muttéred, his teeth closing with a determined snap. ‘‘ Well, they'll find me at home, and will meet with a hot re- ception,” And backing against the wall of the shanty, with his hands resting conveniently near his revolvers, he resolutely waited for the angry un hODe CHAPTER V. -~ SNATCHED FROM DEATH. Down the street tore the excited citizens, fill- tng the air with yells, which were in- ereased at sight of Hurricane Kit. The latter was convinced, now, that he was | the cause of this une ted movement, al- said rd, grimly. pected of being connected with the road in fact, wo are more than half-convin you are Lightning Dick himself. Therefore the “You see, you are sus- | ts; | Canyon, risa | Hurricane Kit in their midst. that | tter h | burly road-agent, across whose saddle-bow he | | citizens of this town, feeling that your room is | preferable to your company, have kindly ar- ranged a little neck-tie pare for your benefit.” At these ominous words vent to a low exclamation. He saw it all now; it was a ating Be to get rid of him, and Black Gaspard was the prime mover in if. With such overwhelming odds against him, the youth, brave as he was, could but feel that | his position was an extremely critical one. But his brave heart quailed not, as he faced his foe with flashing eyes and nerves of steel. “T see your game, Black Gaspard,” he cried in ringing tones, ‘‘ but let me tell you, now and here, that it won’t work. I have you covered, my festive gambler, and upon the first threaten- ing movement on the part of your gang, I'll rid- die your black heart with bullets. So you see the advisability of calling off your bloodhounds,” The Gambler King made no reply, but bit his lip savagely. It was plain that Hurricane Kit, to use the bie ger uae of the West, had the deadwood on him. It required only a sudden rush to overpower the youth by mere superiority ef numbers, but Black Gaspard was not fool enough to order such a rush, with the threatening muzzle of a revolver staring him in the face, A moment passed in painful silence, and the | positions of the two parties remained un- | changed. Suddenly, however, there was a diversion. One of the rearmost men in the crowd had crept, unobserved, to the rear of the cabin, and now he made his appearance upon the roof, di- | rectly above Kit’s head. A triumphant gleam shotinto theeyes of Black Gaspard, as he noted the position of his shrewd satellite, while Hurricane Kit continued to hold his enemies at bay, all unconscious of what was transpiring behind him. He was first made aware of the presence of his new foe, when the latter, with the agility of a wildcat, came down upon his shoulders with a force that knocked him to the earth, his wea- pons flying from his hands. Although completely taken by surprise, Kit grappled fiercely .with his assailant, but the crowd rushed up with cries of exultation, and | the brave youth was quickly overpowered. Kit took his capture coolly, not deigning to re- though he could not conjecture the reason for | spond to the taunts of his pos ig cae foes. the. uprisal. Most men would have shrunk from such heavy odds, but daring Kit was determined to face the music. Cool and unconcerned, to all outward appear- ances, he stood there, but there was something in his flashing eyes and the manner in which he fingered his weapons, that foreboded danger to his foes. On rushed the crowd, knives and pistols bran- dished in the air. It took them but a brief twenty yards from the cabin, and then came a sharp click-click! as Hurricane Kit drew his re- volvers and turned them upon the mob, **Back, there!” commanded the young rover, im a ringing voice... ‘‘ Advance another step, an sure death will shake hands with some o Take warning!” e to reach a spot would put his threat into exeeution, and as the men comprising the exposed portion of the crowd had no particular relish for a diet of bul- lets, they discreetly hesitated and came to a halt. ‘* What kind of a picnie do you call this, gen- tlemen?” continued Kit, with the utmost cool- ness, ‘' You seem to bein a great hurry to see me, In what manner canI serve you?” A man pushed his way through the crowd, and Hurricane Kit gave a low whistle as he re- eognized Black Gaspard. *Ha!” he exclairned!, ‘‘The Gambler King has a hand in ti :, I see.” With a wa. of his hand, Black, Gaspard stilled thean murmuring of his followers. “flurrican. “5,” he cried, ‘‘I call upon you to surrender in th, name of the law. If you are wise, you will lay down your arms and sub mit, for we mean to take you, dead or alive.” The young adventurer greeted this speech with a sneeri ane. “My tri »” he exclaimed, coolly, ‘‘ your cheek i: immeste, ‘‘ What, pray, is the charge en wh -h you to arrest me?” “T eam soon enlighten you on that point,” you. There was no doubt that the youth at bay Without loss of time, he was hurried through the street to where a rope was already rigged over the limb of a tree. Black Gaspard meant to make the most of his victory, and dispose of his young foe without de- lay. There was no pretence to a trial; indeed, the young adventurer did not expect one. He had seen Judge Lynch operate before, and knew full well what the sequel of his capture would be. The noose was placed about his neck, and a dozen men stood ready to haul on the rope. It was a scene to be remembered—the push- ing, surging crowd of fierce armed men, looking with gloating eyes upon their helpless captive, eager to see him launched into eternity; the Gambler King, stern and grim as fate; the youth, himself, cool and collected, in spite of the terrible doom'that menaced him, meeting the fierce glances of his enemies with a smile of scorn. With a fiendish smile upon his villainous face, Black Gaspard gave the\word, and the.next mo- ment a dozen eager hands elevated Hurricane Kit into the air. At this instant there came a crash of pistol shots, and the ruffians grasping the rope sud- denly released their hold and fell to the earth. At the same time a body of masked horsemen, led by aslender youth in somber black, thun- dered down upon the scene, yelling like fiends; with the reins between their teeth, anda revolver in either hand, they charged right into the midst of the assembled citizens, firing recklessly to the right and left, as fast as they coukd pull trigger. lack Gaspard uttered a furious oath. ‘“‘ Confusion!” he cried. _‘‘ The road-agents are upon us! Fight, men, and beat off the infernal hounds!” But the citizens of Bullion City were Se and bewildered by this sudden turn of affairs, and were s* >t back before that impetuous dash like chaff Uc core the wind. There was a moment of tumult and confusion, and then the daring riders separated themselves from the melee, and, with taunting shouts, urricane Kit gave | ee dashed swiftly away in the direction of Peath The la been suddenly caught up by & was now held, somewhat bewildered by the com- fusion around him. He comprehended, however, the character of his rescuers, though he made. no attenapt to free | himself, for, he thought, the read-agents were | could friendly toward him, else they would not have exerted themselves in his behalt. Supported by the strong arm of the outlaw, Kit was borne along ata rapid rate of speed; rugged walls of rock frowned on either hand, showing that he was in the gloomy precincts of Death Canyon. The stronghold of the road-agents was un- doubtedly their destination, but the youth was little concerned regarding his safety ; no situation ssibly be worse than the one from which he had just been released. : The masked band rode at a rapid gallop, although there was no necessity for haste, t citizens of the camp being too confused to pur- sue them. Two miles were quickly traversed, and then the road-agents drew rein. ‘ Kit was somewhat surprised to see them halt here, for there was apparently no means of egress from the camyon at that point; however, | his eyes were’ opened a moment Jater, when one of the road-agents pushed aside a dense mass of vines anc bushes, revealing a narrow opening in the mountain wall. A rough, half-beaten trail wound its tortu- ous way up the side of the mountain, and along this thc outlaws, dismounting, slowly | made their way in single file, leading their animals. It was hard and wearisome labor climbing the steep, rocky slope, but the end of the jour- ney was soon reached. Hurricane Kit realized that he was within the outlaws’ stronghold, and he could but acknowl- edge that they had selected an excellent place. t was a narrow plateau upon the top of the mountain, to which the only approach was by the narrow trail alluded to: a natural breast- work of rocks bordered the level space, and be- hind this a dozen determined men could repel ten times that number of invaders. However, it was hardly likely that such an event would ever tale place, for the cpening at the canyon was sc wc! concealed that it was doubtful if it were ever discovered,-unless by merest accident. Two large substantially-built cabins gave one the impression that the read-egents had come to stay, and meant to make themselves as comfort- able as possible. To an inner apartment in tho smallest of these, Hurricane Kit was conducted by one of the bandits, who directed him to remain there entil the coming of the captain. The young adventurer threw himself into a seat, lighted a cigar, and serenely waited for Lightning Dick to show himself. Hlancing out of the narrow window, he saw that the road-agents, having cared for their horses, were proceeding to enjoy themselves after their exciting ride. They had removed their masks, but it was to be noted that their faces were those of honest men, rather than of robbers and cut-throats. Hurricane Kit observed this with some sur- rise. ‘‘Dash me!” he muttered. ‘‘ Thisis the most decent looking set of agents Iever struck. I’m anxious to see their boss, minus his mask. Ha! Think of a certain persenage, and he’s always around!” As he e, the door opened, and the lithe form of Lightning Dick stood before him. CHAPTER VI. LIGHTNING DICK AT HOME. _. IT was with feelings of curiosity that Kit look- ed upon the dare-devil road-agent, whose name was the terror of that region. His form was that of a youth of twenty, well- built and graceful, set off to the highest advan- tage, by the neat, close-fitting suit of buckskin, dyed a somber black Black gloves incased his hands, which were small ot delicate as those of a woman, while a wide-brimmec wit heb of the same hue Was aced jauntily on his head. : aa aiyk trast entirely concealed bis face, much to the disappomtment of Hurricane Kit, who v» + curious to see the countenance of the famou- outlaw. The aspect of the road-agent, attired as he was in black from head to foot, was gloomy and forbidding in the extreme, °
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Pape) 1 jis To ea “Well, my friend,” he exclaimed, in tones clear and musical, as he advanced into the room, ‘how are you feeling after your rough ws ” kit laughed lightly. “As well as could be expected,” he responded. coolly, ‘‘Much better, in fact, than would have felt, had it not been for your fortunate ar- rival.” “Ay, you ecarcely seemed to be yourself when we cut you down,” said soa, oe grimly. “Tt was a close call for me, I'll allow, and I owe my life to you. Although outlaws are hardly to my taste, yet the man who saves my life, be he whom he may, deserves and shall have my everlasting gratitude. Shake!” Thile speaking, Hurricane Kit had risen to his feet, and now he extended his hand, which was quickly accepted by the road-agent chief, But even as they shook hands, a sudden sus- picion crossed the mind of the young rover, who instantly step back a pace. Lightning Dick observed the sudden change, but ere he could speak, Kit bluntly hastened to explain. ‘Perhaps I’m a fool to shake hands with you, after all,” he said, candidly. ‘‘This may be a case of jumping from the frying-pan into the fire. Possibly you are my enemy, and if such is the case, my position is only changed from bad to worse.” ‘+ Possibly !” echoed the chief, and there was a tinge of scorn in his tones, ‘‘ Would have been to so much trouble to save you, had I not been friendly?” “Perhaps; if you had some object to attain by so doing,” answered Kit, bluntly. There was a moment of silence, which the young adventurer was the first to break. “Tt may be that I wrong you, Lightning Dick,” he said, plainly, ‘‘ but it’s natural for me to express my opinions, no matter what the re- sult may be. It seems deyced strange to me that a road-agent should risk his own life and those of his men to aid a perfect stranger. What's your little game, anyhow?” “You're shooting wide, my friend, for I'm up to no game. I rescued you simply because you are an enemy to Black Gear, and, conse- quently, are my friend.” There was a spiteful venom in the tones of the outlaw, as he mentioned the name of the Gam- bler King, and a low exclamation of satisfac- tion escaped the lips of Hurricane Kit. ‘* So, it seems, you have no particular liking for that light-fingered pasteboard-slinger,” he remarked, carelessty. ‘*T hate the venomous snake,” hissed the out- law, his eyes glowing through the holes in his mask like balls of fire. A brief silence emsued, then Lightning Dick added: “Come, Hurricane Kit, you are a brave man and one to my liking. Sit down, and I will tell ou why I hate Black Gaspard. Perhaps, when ped through, you will have more confidence in me than you now have.” The outlaw took a seat as he spoke, and Kit carelessly did likewise. “ Bire away!” he exclaimed. ina ative sense, I mean.” Without delay Lightning Dick began: ‘ About a year ago I, in company with my father, being compe ed by reverses to leave our home in the East, came to this country, hopin to rebuild our fortune. At this time the gold- fever was at its hight, and men were scouring the hills and gulches on every hand; and we hastened to join the host of eager, toiling pros- tors. “For a time luck was decidedly against us, but at last, down in yonder guich, where now stands Bullion City, we ‘ struck oil’ with a ven- enjoying aight- ——————————————————————— fe ‘*I'm all ears— geance. “The auriferous metal abounded there—a dozen fortunes to be had for the digging. We went to work at once, staking out a claim, and our pr ts were rosy, to say the least. ib ek laneten was in store for us, Scarcely a week had elapsed since the discovery of the gulch, when a band of ruffians, led by him whom you now know as Black Gaspard, rode up to our cabin, “ They laid claim to the premises, anil ordered us to leave. Of course my father refused, and upon their attempt to eject us, met them with a volley of cold lead. But the exertions of two were of no avail inst a dozen, and though we succeeded in downing several of the desperadoes, we were soon overpowered, I uninjured, but father bleeding from a dozen w Y ‘ Angered at the loss of his men, Black Gas- pard ordered him, wounded as he was, to be tied to a tree, some distance away, and there he was left to the mercy of the wolves and buzzards.” At this point, the speaker’s utterance became choked, and he seemed overcome by emotion, but he rallied with an effort, and continued his story. - 1 inastged to escape from the ruffians, but could find no trace of my father, and gave him up as dead. From that moment my sole purpose in life was to avenge his death, and recover the property so cruelly wrested from our posses- sion, ‘“T happened to meet witha party of pros- pecters—rough but honest men—and to them I told my story. They readily agreed to aid me, and I soon made up my mind what course to pursue. With those men forming the nucleus of my now powerful band, I returned to this place, bent on vengeance. ‘‘ When I arrived here I found a great change had taken place. A busy town had sprung up, and iter y ting: was bustle and confusion. Black Gaspard, I ascertained, had set himself up as general boss of the camp, and was each day add- ing fresh feathers to his nest. “Then I, as Lightning Dick, appeared upon the scene, in the role of road-agent, and from that day I have been a thorn in the side of Black Gaspard. But, though I have missed no oppor- tunity to annoy my foe, yet Ihave never touched a dollar belonging to parties not connected with them. Ido my best to seize every ounce of gold that leaves the town, for, surely, it is no crime to take that which, of right, belongs to me. ‘‘ However, lam growing tired of this retail business, and before long the day will come when I'll make a wholesale swoop on Bullion City, sweep Black Gaspard and his satellites from ex- istence, and take possession of the town. “Such, my friend, is my story, and you know now why I am aroad-agent. What think you, pard, is Lightning Dick as black as he is painted?” “T reckon not,” replied Hurricane Kit, who had listened with marked attention to the out- law’s tale. ‘‘ Your course is highly justifiable, under the circumstances. When it comes to rooting out such a rascally gang as that of Black Gaspard, I’m with you every time.” The eyes of the masked youth sparkled. “Your hand, pard!” he said, simply, and the hands of the couple met in a hearty clasp. Some time was spent in further conversation, and Kit became every moment more and more interested in the mysterious bandit. The latter possessed the form of a mere youth, while his voice was rich and musical, but that tantalizing mask effectually concealed every feature, much tothe disgust of Hurricane Kit, whose desire to see the outlaw’s face was mo- mentarily increasing. ‘‘ Tshould think that mask would be an uncom- fortable ornament to wear constantly,” he re- marked, carelessly. “Not at all,” returned Dick, with a light laugh. ‘I should feel strange without it. Besides, I make it a rule never to unmask in company.” And so Kit was compelled to restrain his im- patience, and remain with his curiosity unsatis- fied. The day wore on, and, despite the secureness of his position, Hurricane Kit began to grow ill at ease. The gloomy forebodings of impending evil hung over him like a pail; and though he tried to shake them off, he found himself utterly un- able to do so. He thought of Cora Castleton and her father, who were alone in Bullion City, in the midst of lawless men. It was possible that the evil brain of Black Gaspard might be directed upon this fair maiden; if so, with a gang of equally unscru- pulous ruffians at his back, it ante be an easy matter for him to accomplish his purpose. Hurricane Kit was determined to return to the town as soon as morning dawned, and he communicated his intentions to his road-agent friend, who promised to furnish him with a suit- able disguise, for it would be madness to venture into camp in his true character. Filled with anxiety for the safety of the one whom he had begun to love, Kit slept but little that night, and soon as daylight appeared, he prepared to return to Bullion City. In the disguise of a miner, furnished him by Lightning Dick, he felt secure to go among his enemies, though he was well aware that, if his true identity was discovered, the consequences would be exceedingly unpleasant. . Thevoad-agent chief himself conducted Kit down the mountain to the gulch below, and when the latter point was reached he shipped a nn eee EEEEEEnEEEEEESEEEEEEEEREE small silver whistle, of cag form, inte the yo adventurer’s hand. ‘““You may be unmasked, and compelled to fight for your life,” he explained. “In that case, if you require aid, you have only to sound this whistle. Adios !” So saying, the outlaw turned away, while Hur- ricane Kit strode rapidly down the canyon, jn the direction of the mining-camp. The little mining-town was thrown into a frenzy of excitement by the bold dash of Light- ning Dick's road-agents, and the rescue of their prisoner from under their very noses. For a brief space after that reckless charge, the worthy “cits” were thrown into deep con- fusion; when they had recovered their self-pos- session, it was only to behold the outlaws riding swiftly up the canyon toward their mountain - fastness, bearing Hurricane Kit in their midst. Then it was that the air suddenly grew blue with curses, showered without stint upon the bold knight of the road; and of them all Black Gaspard cursed loudest and longest. They did not attempt to pursue the fleeing road-agents. They had tried it, once upon atime, with highly disastrous results, and the men of Bullion City valued their lives too highly to again beard Lightning Dick in his lair. For a time all was confusion, but gradually the excitement abated, and before noon the camp had resumed its wonted appearance, With a frown upon his dark face, Black Gaspard stalked moodily through the street. The events of the morning were decidedly not to his liking, and his mood was by no means pleasant. He was passing by the shaky structure which rejoiced in the title of ‘ hotel,” and chancing to look up, he beheld the fair face «f Cora. Castle- ton at a window. An exclamation of mingled surprise and admiration escaped the lips of the gambler. “The deuce!” he muttered. ‘‘ A female hyar in Bullion City! Pretty as a picture, too! Guess lll go in and make a few inquiries of our friend William!” So remarking, Black Gaspard entered the building. The only occupant of the bar-room was the proprietor, a burly individual who beasted the rather dubious cognomen of Potato William. He was evidently a friend of Black Gaspard, for he grinned and nodded as the latter entered. The gambler lost no time in coming at his point. With his tongue loosened by the persua- sive influence of a gold eagle, tossed over the bar, Potato William played the Sa of a pump to perfection, and soon Black Gaspard was as wise as his informant concerning Charles Castle- ton and kis pretty daughter. “A banker, eh? and rich as Croesus!” he mut- tered, as he left the place. ‘‘ Of course his fair daughter is his sole heir, and— Ha! I think I see a way toincrease my pile. Let me think!” Thus musing, he made his way to his own es- tablishment, and, seeking his private apartment, was soon wrapt in thought and tobacco-smoke. His evil brain was actively at work, as he puffed vigorously on his cigar, and finally he flung it aside with a low cry of satisfaction, while his dark eyes glittered. k “T have it!” he exclaimed, in triumph. “TH gain the friendship of the worthy banker, and also the hand of his daughter in marriage. Then, when all is rosy, it will be an easy mat- ter to put the old man out of the way, and pocket the wealth that will then fall to her.” A. bold and villainous scheme, truly, and Black Gaspard was the man to put it into exe- cution. “Tl get to work at once,” he soliloquized. ‘“'The first step is to call on the banker, play the gentleman, and get an intr duction to my fair bride that is to be. Ha, ha!” Chuckling at the esr re before him, the Gambler King arose, lighted a weed, and saun- tered ever to the hotel. Charles Castleton, the banker, received him courteously, but with an ill-concealed look of suspicion, which did not escape the sharp eyes of the visitor. “Well, sir, what is your business with me?” inquired Castleton, somewhat coldly, after an exchange of courtesies. It was plain that he was not favorably im- pressed wf his caller. ‘*My dear sir,” said the gambler, suavely, ‘“let me inform you at once, Having heard that you were here for the purpose of opening business, and being a prominent, citizen of this place, I thought perhaps I might be of scme as sistance to you, and so have come to make you
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ae RS kskin. land, surrounded by such a i 4 élement as welcomed, The banker nodded in the affirmative. “*T'm obliged to you for your interest in. my welfare,” he said, ‘* but you area perfect stran- rer to me. You say you are prominent here. Vhat is your name, if I may ask?” The Gambler King bowed low. ‘* Pardon me for not vouchsafing that infor- mation before,” he exclaimed. ‘‘Il am Gaspard Gonzales, mine-owner, at your service.” ** Not Black Gaspard?’ “That is what many of these wild men of the mines call me, I believe,” laughed the sharper. Castleton frowned. He had heard of this personage from the lips of Kit Carroll, and knew the character of the man before him. ‘* Sir!” he cried, sternly, ‘‘if you are the ras- cal known as Black Gaspard, your presence here is no longer desired. Be your intentions good, bad or indifferent, I care not for the society of a .man who is netorious for being a card- sharp and general vogue. There is the door!” For a moment the gambler could only stare in surprise, so totally unexpected was the banker’s speech. Then a scowl overspread his dark features, while his eyes glittered like those of a serpentias he rose to his feet. “Sir!” he exclaimed angrily, ‘“‘be careful what yousay. I came to you asa friend, but may leave you asa foe. So, beware!” “Your enmity is preferable to your friend- ship,” answered Charles Uastieton, coldly. With a muttered curse, Black Gaspard with- drew ** Curse the luck!” he exclaimed, as he strode moodily down the street. ‘Some meddling fool has given me a recommendation to the banker, and so he declines the honor of my ac- uaintance. Ha, ha! Castleton will find that m not through with him. There’s more ways than one to skin a cat, and this game is too rare to let slip without a struggle. It’s a stake worth playing for, and Black Gaspard is bound to win ” 7 And there was a malignant gleam in the snaky orbs of the gambler, that boded no good to the banker and his fair daughter. CHAPTER VII, KIT ON THE TRACK, THE sun was scarcely an hour high, when an individual left Death Canyon and sauntered leisurely into Bullion City. He was a ntly a man of middle age, with tangled hair and a matted beard which con- ed the greater part of his features. Clad in a ragged, mud-bespattered suit, with battered hat mt cowhide boots reaching to the knees, he presented the appearance of a roving prospector, ‘* down on his luck.” Yet this person was no other than Hurricane Kit, skillfully disguised. It was risky to thus venture into the midst of the etremies, from whom he had so narrowly es- caped the day before. f, perchance, his disguise was penetrated, the chances were that he would never leave the camp alive, for the citizens, thanks to the cun- ning of Black Gaspard, believed him to be a member of Lightning Dick's band, and would y mete out Western justice. No one realized the hazard better than Kit, himself, yet he did not hesitate for a moment. He had a suspicion that trouble was brew- ing—in what form he had no definite idea, and he was determined to investigate matters a little. Leisurely, Kit strolled into the camp, glanc- ing about with apparent indifference, yet he was taking in every movement with observant eyes. It took him buta brief period to see that some- thing unusual had occurred. Men were gathered in little knots, excitedly discussing some topic, interspersing their re- marks with violent . ‘ Jurious ig ovat - tine cause of the Sega poss ry urricane Kit, feeli secure in hi sguise, boldly joined the nearest p. “Pard!” he exclaime : y, tapping a miner on the shoulder. ‘* Wo’t’s ther meanin’ ov all this hubbub hyar? Somethin’ unusual hez happened, I take it,” Ee thar hez,” answered the miner, who was evidently one of the few honest, law-abid- ing cttivens. ‘‘Durn it! Ther place is gettin’ wuss an’ wuss every day, an’ I’m b ef I don't up stakes an’ git, while I've a hull et i ——-—$——__—__— ‘*Matter enuff! Thur blamed road-agents aid us another call last night, kicked up general due blazes, an’ then wound up by runnin’ off with ther rich banker an’ his darter,” was the startling announcement of Ben Barker, the miner. Hurricane Kit uttered a cry of mingled sur- prise and dismay. ‘Ts this the truth you are speaking?” he de- manded, fiercely clutching the other’s arm. ‘**Sartain!” responded Barker, in. surprise. **Do ye know ther banker?” Kit saw that in his excitement he had nearly betrayed his identity, but he quickly recovered his customary coolness. **'Yas, I’ve heard of him,” he carelessly said, in answer to the miner’s inquiry, and then he sauntered away. His fears were realized, the girl he loved was in danger; and his brain was busy at work as he paced thoughtfully up thé street. Although greatly astonished ‘iby the startling intelligence, he did not allow his self-possession to forsake him, but reasoned with all the cool- ness that was one of his characteristics, “Seems to me there’s a screw loose some- where,” he muttered. ‘* This happened last night and Lightning Dick is charged with being at the bottom of it. Now, I know for a positive fact that the outlaw and his men remained in their stronghold all night, and, as they could not be in two places at once, it is evident that Light- ning Dick’s band were not the perpetrators of ie outrage. Then, who are the guilty parties? t’s plain to me that there is double-dealing somewhere, I must investigate.” He walked on until he came to a spot where a dense crowd of citizens were listening to a man mounted on a barrel. It was Black Gaspard, and Kit was soon near enough to hear his words. “Men of Bullion City,” he was saying, ‘‘ the time has come for action! For weeks and months we have submitted to the outrages of Lightning Dick and his accursed followers, but when it Comes to stealing innocent, defenseless people from under our very noses, then it is time to make a move. We must seek the out- laws in their stronghold, break hp 4 their gang, and bring back the banker and his daughter. Let all those who dare, prepare to follow me at once!” A series of ringing cheers followed the gam- bler’s speech. Where Black Gaspard led, the citizens of Bul- lion City would follow. The result was that the entire population of the town signified its readiness to join in the out- law hunt. But the Gambler King saw the advisability of leaving a strong force to guard the camp, in case the road-agents should take a notion to at- tack it in his absence; so, selecting about fifty men, he set out at once, amid the cheers of the stay-at-homes. here were two men in the crowd who did not share in the general enthusiasm. One was Hurricane Kit; the other a tall, bearded man in the garb of a miner, who stood leaning against the side of a cabin close by, in- tently watching the scene. A ‘contemptuous smile curled his lip, as he witnessed the starting of the expedition. “Black Gaspard is cunning. Bah! There’s little probability of their bringing back either the banker or his daughter, if he leads them.” The stranger thus expressed his opinion, seem- ingly unconscious that any one was within ear- shot; but Hurricane Kit heard the sarcastic words, and with a bound he was beside the man who uttered them. ‘What's that you say? What do you know about this?” demanded he, impetuously, as he seized the tall stranger by the arm. The latter Whaat with an oath, and threw up his arm in a vigorous effort to escape the grasp of the other, whose false beard was swept to the ground. Kit uttered a cry of dismay, which was echoed by the stranger as he sprung back. ‘* Hurricane Kit, by the eternal!” he =. Quick as a flash the oung adventurer re- laced his disguise, and seizing tLe miner, pulled im behind the shant , out » sight of the citizens, who, fortunately had not witnessed this little episode. ‘““Who in the deuce aré you? ‘demanded Hur- ricane Kit, fiercely. The stranger smiled, “* Jonathan Jinks, at your service,” he said, uietly. ‘‘ Ye see, pard, it warn’t very health ur me ter show myself after what ba ig 4 for, bein’ a friend ov yours, it was y ther ee i ee ee —_—$S$}. $$ Mighty glad ter see ye, rd. Shake!” a” out a brawny hand, which Kit shook pggti' ‘“‘T’m pleased to meet with you again,” he said. ‘It’s somewhat consoling to feel that you have even one friend in such a place as this. ut, pard, you just made some remark about this expedition. Do you know anything about the affair of last night?” Eagerly he asked the question, and Jonathan replied jpromptly. ‘Dew I know anything about it? Wal, that depends. Are yeou a friend ov theirs!” ‘I’m happy to say that I am.” “That settles it, then. I dew know jest a leetle about ther scrape.” Hurricane Kit uttered an exclamation of im- patience. ‘For Heaven’s sake, man, don’t keep me in suspense, but tell me all you know. Can’t you see that I am burning with impatience?” Jonathan Jinks, without further delay, pro- ceeded to tell his story, the substance of which we give below in our own words. About dark, the night before, while rambling in the outskirts of the camp, with no particular object in view, he suddenly came upon two men engaged in conversation. One of these men was Black Gaspard, and the other a burly ruf- fian whom he had seen in the town several times before. Suspecting that some mischief was being con- cocted, Jonathan became curious to learn the subject of the conversation. Accordingly, he advanced stealthily, and succeeded in reaching a point close to the plotting pair, without his presence being suspected by them. From behind a sheltering bowlder, he heard every word that was uttered. Black Gaspard ordered his companion to cellect ‘‘ the boys,” abduct the banker and his daughter, and carry them to the rendezvous, there to await his fur- ther orders. The whereabouts of the rendez- vous the eavesdropper could not ascertain. Then the Gambler King and his satellite took their departure, luckily without discovering Jinks, who was left alone to ponder over what he had heard. He was not long in making up his mind what course to pursue. There were a few honest men in Bullion City, and he deter- mined to solicit their aid in defen the con- templated victims of the midfiight raid. But “the best-laid plans of mice and men gang aft aglee,” and so it was with our friend, onathan Jinks. Scarcely had he risen from his place of con- cealment, when he received a terrible blow on the head from behind, that stretched him, stun- ned and bleeding upon the earth. He was recalled to his senses by the sunlight streaming down upon his face. Nothing was to be seen of his late assailant, whose object whdmaget been robbery, as Jonathan’s pockets were rifled of their contents. Without loss of time, Jinks hurried into camp, only to find that he was too late. The abduc- tion had been accomplished, and the citizens were loud in their denunciations of the road- agents, whom they believed to be the perp traters of the outrage; and this belief Black Gaspard, who was at the bottom of it all, cun- ningly strengthened. Such was the narration of the countryman, which Hurricane Kit eagerly listened to. When Jinks had ceased talking, the young man stood for fully a minute, without speaking, deeply wrapt in thought. inally he looked up. ‘ P ‘“‘ Jonathan,” he rig ag nape gambler is up to some deep game, He in his possession a young lady for whom I would risk everything I must rescue her and her father from the villainous clutches of Black ,,or die in the attempt. Pard, can I look to you for assist- ance?” Jinks’s reply was characteristic. “* Pard,” exclaimed, ‘‘kin a fish swim? Yeou kin count on me, through thick and thin!” ** Good |” And once more the two men shook hands, as if to bind the bargain. CHAPTER VIII. THE GAMBLER KING FRYDS HIS FOE. Wuen Black Gaspard left Bullion City with a picked body of citizens, ostensibly to t for
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Lighmimg Dick’s band, he in reality had no incention of inviting a conflict with those noto- vious knights of the road. He meant to lead them among the hills and gulches for a few hours, and then return to the town; whether they found the road-agents or not (and the gambler heartily hoped that they would not), he would have the credit of boldly leading the expedition on the hazardous errand. | What, Black Gaspard wanted was to raise himself higher in the estimation of his fellow- citizens, for he fully appreciated the advantage | ular in a western mining-town. of being po a he did not wish to betray, by any Besides, of the previous night. It was a keen game, and Black Gaspard was playing his cards shrewdly. For some time the gambler led his men aim- lessly about; then, when the declining sun gave | ‘evidence that the day was nearly spent, he ordered a halt. ‘‘Men,” he said, ‘‘we have hunted nearly all day, but are apparently no nearer to the outlaws than when we started. They have covered their trail with the cunning of Sioux, and my opinion is we might as well try to catch a shadow. We will return to camp.” His words were greeted with a cheer, for the outlaw-hunters had for some time been of their leader’s opinion. To tell the truth, that tramp had had the effect of dam 2 only needed their commander’s word to take the back track with an alacrity that with which they had enterprise. Back they went, therefore, at no for fantastic shadows had already begun to fi] the gloomy recesses of Death Canyon, whils vague fears took possession of the men from Bullion City. It was an admirable place for an ambush, and the citizens looked askance at every shad- ow, lest it should prove to be a foe. Even the bold gambler was a trifle uneasy, | and acknowledged to himself that he should feel safer were be in his own apartments at the Gambler’s Paradise. On marched the men of Bullion Cit y, the tramp of their feet being the only seund that broke the gloomy silence. ** Halt!” Sharp and clear the stern command rung out upon the air, and the startled outlaw-hunt- ers looked uneasily around. them. . No one was to seen; but the next instant the command was repeated: ** Halt there, men of Bullion City !” This time there was no mistaking the direc- tion whence came the voice, and looking up, the men in the canyon saw the very man for whom opd had been all day searching—Lightning Dick, entered upon the Standing upon a rocky projection far above them, with his arms carelessly folded across his breast, and his eyes glittering through the holes in his mask, the rae outlaw looked compla- cently down upon his foes below him. “So you seek Lightning Dick!” he laughed. ““You shall not be disappointed. Here he stands, What is your pleasure?” The answer he received was more forcible than polite. . s : Drawing his revolver with a lightning-like movement, Black Gaspard fired thrice in succes- sion at the lithe form of the road-agent outlined against the rocky wall. ‘ ; With a prdegion J laugh Lightning Dick sud- | denly disappeared, while the leaden missiles | pattered against the rocks where he had just | The next moment the outlaw-chief again re- a You fools! You have come to seek Light- ning Dick, and you shall meet with a warm re- ception!” Ominously the words fell ge the ears of the reea from ‘Bullion City, and they were imme- diately followed by the sound of a shrill whistle. Quickly came an answering signal from the at Reser bay was a clatter of mooe ch eter | 0; ce and then a compact body o masked riters swept down upon the dismayed | King was the only one among crowd from Bullion City who retained his 18 voice rung out above the yells of the ad- van road. Perko Gambler the self. “agents ire 8 that of a lion. indifference on his part, the fact that he was in | any manner connected with the bold abduction pening their ardor considerably, and they | which far surpassed | slow pace, | Black Buckskin, The miners obeyed, but the But Kit possessed an indomitable will, and and their shots flew wild. / was determined to accomplish his purpose by Then came a return volley, which laid several ; Some Means. of their number low. | Moving carelessly through the crowd, the That was enough for the demoralized citizens, | young adventurer closely scrutini every man who turned and fied, gy Faz in the direction | who came under his notice, though not appear- | of Bullion City, Black Gaspard being carried | ing to do se. along by the tide. nthis way he passed from one end of the After them thundered the road-agents, yelling | building to the ber and back again, but saw Itke Indians, firing their revolvers recklessly in | no one whose buttons matched that in his pos- the air, and enjoying the fun at the top of their session. bent. The men for whom he sought was conspicuous Down. the canyon raced the terror-stricken | for his absence. | miners, panting like dogs, and wildly throwing ! Hurricane Kit turned away disappointed. away their weapons as they ran, while the ** He’s not here, that’s certain,” he said to Jinks, dreaded outlaws thundered close at their heels. | in a cautious undertone. ‘We must loek for It was a never-to-be-forgotten dash, and if | him in the other places.” | ever human being was thankful, then were these | Our two friends were about to teave the same citizens, when, half-dead from fright | saloon, when an unexpected interruption teok and exhaustion, they came within sight of Bul- | place. lion City. ) There was a confused shuffling of feet, as the | The entire population, alarmed by the firing, | door flew open, and an individual staggered into turned out to meet them, and they saw at a | the room. | glance that the expedition had not been a suc- He was a stalwart sjx-footer of the ruffian | cess, type, roughly. clad, and armed to the teeth. Jonathan Jinks chuckled grimly, as he prod- | i cca evident that he was out ‘‘on a tear,” | ded Kit, good-naturedly. | and those who stood in his way discreetly fell **So Black Gaspard did find ther road-riders, | back to give him room. in spite of himself,” he remarked. The drunken ruffian pranced into the room, “Or, rather, they found him,” corrected the | wildly brandishing his arms above his head. disguised youth, laughing at the ludicrous as- “Whoop!” he yelled. “I’m Cinnamon Jake pect presented by the terrified “cits,” as they | from Pistolville, an’ I’m out on the war-path, raced into camp in a manner decidedly at con- | chock-full ter ther muzzle. Out er ther way, trast with the way they had left it a few hours pi ims, fur thar’s blood in my eye, an’ ma | previous. a man when my dander’s riz. Ker-whoop! There was a grand rally of citizens to protect | Ouch!” the camp from the invading road-agents, but As the bad man from Pistolville finished his this proved unnecessary. announcement, he attempted to execute a deuble- After pursuing the flying miners to the very | shuffle, but the exertion proved toe much for edge of the town, the daring knights of the road him, and, losing his balanee, he sought the floor wheeled their horses, and, with taunting shouts, | with a foree that shook the building. dashed away toward the mountain stronghold. As he fell, he threw out his arms in a wild endeavor to recover his equilibrium, and Hur- | ricane Kit, who stood close by, narrowly escap- ed disaster. ““Careful, you clumsy lout!” cried the youth, angrily, as he maintained his balance with an effort. ‘‘Don’t fling yourself round quite so promiscuous, if you please.” inte a growl of rage, Cinnamon Jake gained is feet. ‘ What's that ye say?” he demanded savage- y, as he danced up to our friend. ‘‘ Me thinks heerd yer gentle voice waftin’ a leetle bit of _ advice over in my direction. Wheop! Durn ye! 4 y were excited, | } It was night in Bullion City—the evening fol- lowing the events just recorded. Few persons were out; most of the population had sought the various saloons and gambling- | dens that ornamented the town, there to talk over the exciting events of the day as they sip- ped their liquid lightning, or to try their hick at the gaming-table, Black Gaspard’s place, the Gambler’s Para- dise, received the greatest patronage, and there we would take the reader. ‘ Both rooms were filled to overflowing with men of all classes—gamblers, adventurers, | ’m cock-o’-the-walk, an’ the galoot w’ot slings miners, and ruffianly loafers, the latter being | his lip at me hez got ter chaw dirt. You bet!” decidedly in the majority. | Standing with his arms carelessly folded, Among the rest were the heroes (?) of the man- hunting expedition, striving to drown the dis- grace of their defeat by imbibing liberal quan-| “ tities of aory mountain dew. ) The Gambler King was not to be seen. He | was too nervous to take his customary place at | the card-table, for a flying bullet had cut along his cheek during that mad retreat, making a wound which, though not dangerous, was pain- ful enough to considerably increase his irrita- bility. It is needless to say that Hurricane Kit and his friend were among the patrons of the Gam- bler’s. Paradise. Feeling quite secure in their dis moved leisurely in and out of the ing near to each other that they might better | guard against danger, and taking in every ob- | ject with observant eyes. For, in spite of his apparently indifferent at- titude, Hurricane Kit was there on business. He was looking for the man who had tried to shoot him on the night of his entrance into Bul- lion City—for the owner of the silver button, which he had picked up the following morning. | The assassin, he reasoned, was one of Black | Gaspard’s hirelings, and, therefore, was likely to know the whereabouts of Charles Castleton and his daughter, Indeed, he mi under the gam abduction. This fellow once found and in his power, Kit felt that, either by threats or bribery, he could be induced to reveal the location of the rendez- vous, where his friends were held prisoners, It was with the intention of finding this a it, , paid a visit to | Kit looked contemptuously upon the swaggering rough, t’s my opinion that you'd better bettle up your chin-music,” he remarked, coolly. “ Ycu're drunk, my friend, and I advise you to go cut- side and cool off. You might accidentally get hurt, and then your mother would mourn the untimely taking-off of her handsome son. Take my advice, Jacob, and go home to your ma.” A yell of applause followed this sarcastic speech, while as for the bruiser, himself, his bloated face turned fairly livid with wrath. ““Kerwhoop! Illshow ye!” he yelled. ‘Durn ye! Ill chaw ye inter shce-strings.” And he rushed forward, bent on executing his threat. ‘Then the iron fist of Hurricane Kit shot out like lightning, and a million stars sudden- | ly seemed to float before the eyes of the tough from Pistolville, who instantly assumed an at- pene of repose in a manner more forcible than elegant. For a moment he lay there, half-stunned by the blow; then, with a roar like that of a mad bull, he leaped to his feet and rushed upon the smiling youth who had caused his downfall. So impetuous was his rush that Kit could not | avoid it, and the next moment the two were locked in a fierce embrace. Then ensued a brief but desperate struggle for the mastery, which was ended by both com- batants Cong: together. Cinnamon Jake was undermost, and his head struck the floor with a force that deprived him of consciousness, while Hurricane Kit, triumph- | ant, leaped to his feet, none the worse for the encounter, As he did so, a threatening murmur arose from the assembled crowd. guise, they | crowd, keep- | ht be one of the party who, er’s orders, accomplished the son, whoever he might be, that Hurricane accompanied by Jonathan Jinks the Gambler’s Paradise. i During the struggle with the ruffian, Kit’s dis- His only clew was the silver button, and the guise had been torn off, and now he stood re- young man realized that it was not so a , vealed in his true character to the gaze ef the task as it seemed to be; even if he found the astonished oceupants of the saloon. would-be assassin, it was another to in- It took the young adventurer but an instant Mn him into their power without ing | to comprehend how matters stoed., He realized that his position was a desperate
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seen but not for a moment did his nerve forsake im. As the citizens, Lage: veri rise, erly forwar caped agilely v0 cae side, and with his back against the wall and a revolver in either hand, boldly faced the crowd, vs Back!” he cried, in ringing tones. ‘‘ Death awaits the first man who advances,” At the same same time, Jonathan Jinks took his place by the side of his partner; he said nothing, but his revolvers were leveled, and there was a determined gleam in his eyes that from their sur- to seize him, he . showed he was ready for business. In spite of the heavy odds in their favor, the citizens. hesitated; it needed only a determined rush to overpower the bold couple by mere superiority of numbers, but such a rush meant death to some of them, and they were in no wise anxious to face the storm of bullets that would greet the first hostile movement on their part, So they stood undecided, and there was a minute of silence so deep that one might hear a pin drop. During this brief interval, the brain of Hur- ricane Kit was busily at work. Their —— was a hazardous one, for a score of armed men were between them and the door, and Kit felt that, though they might keep back their foes for a time, the result would be cap- ture. But suddenly he thought of the whistle given him by Lightning Dick; now was the time to test its virtues, and Kit instantly pulled it from his pocket and blew with all his might. Loud and shrill rung out the signal, echoing and re-echoing from the walls of the room, and the result astonished the youth as much as it did the crowd of ruffians. Scarcely had the last echo died away, when every window-sill became the resting-place for half a dozen rifles, the black muzzles of which frowned ominously upon the startled sccupants of the saloon. Then from the outside, terse and stern, came the command: “Hands up!” It is needless to say that the citizens of Bullion City promptly obeyed this sharp order; they could not well do otherwise with death staring them in the face. With scowling faces, they stood with hands elevated, patiently awaiting developments. Our two friends were greatly pleased at this fortunate turn of affairs. ‘You see, gents,” remarked Hurricane Kit coolly, ‘‘that I am well protected. Sorry I cannot oblige co by remaining, but I must go, now. Trala- re With this speech, he backed slowly out of the room, closely followed by Jinks, while the baf- fled ruffians, though wild with rage, dared make no attempt to stop them, threatened as they were by nearly a score of deadly rifles, A moment later, the men on the outside with- drew the siege of their weapons, and the crowd of ‘‘ cits” made a grand rush for the door. But nothing was tobe seen of Hurricane Kit and his friend, nor of the unknowns who had aided them, and the furious citizens had no al- ternative but to return, which they did, sooth- ing their ruffled tempers with liberal quantities of flery tanglefoot. CHAPTER IX. ON THE TRAIL. TEN minutes later, two men were skulking in the darkness, at the edge of the mining- camp, were our two friends, Kit Carroll and pice Ba Jinks,’ “‘Confound that Cinnamon Jake!” the young adventurer exclaimed. ‘‘He turned up just in time to spoil our plans,” “The durned skunk!” growled the country- man, sg ge on “Ef I only hed him hyar, Td give him ther wu’st lambastin’ he ever tuck sence his mammy uster fetch him over her check- ed apron.” “* Well,” remarked Kit philosophically, ‘‘ what ean’t be cured must be endured. There's no material harm done; however, we can’t con- tinne our search until I procure a different dis- “ That’s a fact, sure as shootin’, pard,” assent- Jinks. “ Et wouldn’t work worth a cent ter go back ter campin thet same rig. Ha! W’ot on earth’s thet?” A low, long-drawn sound was suddenly waft- ed on the breeze to their ears, men lis- tened attentively. F “Tt sounds @ groan,” w! Hurri- cane Kit. ‘“ Let’s investigate.” 4 ie er ~ Black Buckskin. cs ne re | ee Cautiously they proceeded in the direetion of the sound, their pistols ready for instant use. There was no cause for alarm, however, for : the sound resolved itself into an unmistakable snere, and soon our friends came upon the au- thor of the musical disturbance. Behind a sheltering rock, a man lay stretched out at full length, sleeping off the effects of too much bad whisky. By the light of a match, Hurricane Kit close- ly scrutinized the unconscious man. He was evidently a Mexican, and his face was that of a ruffian and cut-throat, with the gal- lows stamped on every feature, But neither the face nor the form of the drunken sleeper interested Kit, who was gazing intently at the gaudy jacket, from which one button was missing; the buttons on the coat were the exact counterparts of the one in the youth’s possession. As he made this discovery, Kit leaped to his | feet_with a glad cry, ‘*Pard!” he exclaimed. ‘“ Our game is found.” | ‘“Ther deuce, yeou say!” was Jonathan Jinks’s | elegant ejaculation. ‘‘ Wal, ef this ain’t luck!” ‘**It is, decidedly so,” said the youth, in ela- tion. ‘‘ Everything has turned out for the best. Had it not been for Cinnamon Jake, we would now be hunting for our man among the saloons | of the town.” Jonathan grinned. ‘‘No thanks ter Jacob. Howsumdever, I'll furgive ther critter, an’ shake his hand next time we meet instead o’ kickin’ him. But, say! What’ll we dew with this p’izen imp, now thet we've got him safely corraled?” ‘““We must take him to some secluded spot, where we will be secure from discovery by our foes. Then, when he sobers up, if he knows | cad about this affair, he must be made to tell.’ Jonathan nodded approvingly. ‘**Good idea!” he remarked, laconically. ‘‘Come, let us get away from this vicinity without further delay,” urged Hurricane Kit. ‘* Every moment that we remain here we run the risk of being detected by some of those prowling ruffians. It’s fortunate that our man is intoxicated, or we might not have secured him without a struggle.” ‘*He’s drunker’n a b’iled owl,” declared the | countryman, who had been inspecting the pros- trate Greaser. ‘‘ We'll hev ter tote him, I opine.” ‘*Exactly. Catch hold, pard!” He lifted the Mexican by the shoulders, while | Jinks caught hold of his legs, and in this man- | ner the fellow was carried along as unceremoni- ously as if he was a bag of meal. Our friends kept on until nearly a mile was laced between them and the lights of Bullion ‘ity. Then they came to a halt in a place admir- ably suited for their purpose. It was a small pocket in the mountains, flanked on all sides by huge bowlders; there was | little danger of molestation in this snug re- treat. ; The Mexican was dum unceremoniously upon the hard ground, and lay there still snor- ing melodiously, utterly insensible to his rough usage, while our friends proceeded to collect ma- terial for a fire, Soon a cheerful blaze was started, and then s:$ turned their attention to the prisoner. e latter was still sleeping like a top, and, seeing that he would not recover from his drunken stupor before morning, the twain sought the rest they so greatl needed, first tak- ing the precaution to bind the captive, lest he might come to his senses during the night, and e himself scarce. The night passed, and when, at daybreak, our friends Eertke, the prisoner was still snorting like a fog-horn. “Durn me! Ther blamed Greaser ha’n’t cum ter life yet,” growled Jinks in disgust. Hurricane Kit looked suspiciously at the es * he said, deliberately, | t’s my opinion @ sai eliberately, | that the ‘induenal reaser is shamming, hop- ing that we'll carelessly untie him, and give him a chance to levant.” 6 countryman grinned. “Tf ther galoot’s awake IT] make him show it,” he said, grimly. Going to a petiie ct water near by, he filled his hat, and then ed the cold liquid full in the face of the Mexican, who, half-strangled by the deluge, opened his eyes, sphuttering and cursing in his native tongue. Jinks chuckled in delight at the success of his ruse, ‘“ Ob, ho, my yaller-skinned wildcat!” he ob- served. ‘‘I see yeou ain’t quite dead after all. Don’t take tew water, I reckon.” The prisoner scowled darkly at the speaker, but vouchsafed no reply to his taunting words. Hurricane Kit could but acknowledge that his captive was an mapenere subject to ob- tain information from, but he meant to succeed, and with this determination he seated himself by the side of the prostrate Mexican. “Well, my friend, how are you feeling this morning?” he asked, as an opening remark, A ferocious scowl was his only reply, but Kit, undaunted, went on: : **Come, there is no use in being sulky. We have you here, and you cannot escape, so you | might as well make the best of your situation.” e Greaser uttered a curse. “Curse you! Why have you brought me here?” he demanded, fiercely. ‘‘That you shall soon know,” responded Kit. ‘Tn the first place, do you know who I am?” ““Carajo! Yes! You are the young dare- devil they, call Hurricane Kit,” answered the prisoner, promptly. Kit laughed. ‘““Thanks for the compliment,” he ** Well, now, who are you?” ‘**T'm called Red Juan,” replied the Mexican, sullenly. 4, ‘““Well, Red Juan, I’m much obliged to you said. | for so kindly trying to kill me the other night,” | said Kit, keenly watching the face of his pris- oner as he spoke, The Mexican assumed an air of innocence and surprise. ‘What do you mean, senor?” he asked. Hurricane Kit laughed scornfully. “Bah!” he exclaimed. ‘‘ Don’t try the inno- cent game on me, for it won’t work. You are the man who fired on me from ambush, and there is no use for you todenyit. Now, why did you fire that shot? Did I ever harm you, that you should seek my life?” For a moment Red Juan was silent. “You shall know the reason,” he said, at last. ‘‘ My employer hated you, and I thought to gain his favor by ridding him of you. But, carajo! the shot flew wild, and I was foiled. Curses on my luck!” And the dark face of the assassin wore a look of intense disappointment, so ludicrous that Hur- ricane Kit laughed amusedly, “Ts a pity you were disappointed,” he said, sarcastically, ‘‘but the Fates willed it. You spoke of your employer. Whois he—Black Gas- pard?” The prisoner made no reply, but the start he gave told Kit that he had not guessed amiss, A brief silence ensued, which was broken by Red Juan. ‘* Well, senor,” he said, carelessly, ‘‘ now that I have answered your questions, am I at liberty to depart? Or do you intend to kill me!” Hurricane Kit smiled grimly. “My friend,” he exclaimed, MF nye life’ de- pends on yourself. If you truthfully answer the questions I put to you, then you may have your reedom; if not, then something else, more un- pleasant, will happen. Do you comprehend?” Red Juan nodded. “What do you want to know?” he inquired, sullenly, ‘‘ Let me tell you I ain’t a fountain of universal knowledge.” ear “Enough so for my purpose,” said Kit, grim- ly; and then he came to the \point without fur- ther parley, ‘ What I want to know’ jis this: What did Black Gaspard do with the man and girl whom he caused to be abducted last night?” The Mexican started. “Caramba! How did you know—?” he be- pan; and then, realizing that he had betrayed imself, he lapsed into a sullen silence. Kit smiled complacently, for he saw that Red Juan knew all about the abduction. — The next thing was to obtain the desired infor- mation. “My friend,” he said, “I’ve got you ganged, and you had better e a clean breast of it. The sooner you speak, the better it will be for ou.” - Red Juan scowled. , “Kill me, if you will!” he exclaimed, in dogged defiance, ‘‘I cannot betray the secrets of my chief.” He evidently feared the wrath of Black Gas- pos more than he did that of the men who held risone r. Ae f0F Hurricane Kit, he whip out a re- volver, and pressed the cold muzzle against the temple of the Mexican. hs here!” he cried, sternly. ‘I've dallied long enough. “I'll give you one minute in which to speak. If your o te tongue is not loos- eee
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ened at the end of that time, I'll send a bullet through your brain.” Jonathan Jinks, who had hitherto remained an ee but silent spectator, nodded his ap- roval. ‘*That’s ther talk! he exelaimed. ‘‘ Ef ther durned rascal won’t talk, blow him inter ther middle o’ next week.” Juan grew uneasy. Like most of his nation, he was a coward at heart, and as the seconds flew swiftly by, his air of bravado vanished, and his swarthy face grew e. ‘““Time’s up!” announced Hurricane Kit. ‘Last chance! Will you speak?” There was no mercy shown on his stern, reso- lute face, and the Greaser wisely yielded, for he no particular desire to leave the world just en. give in, curse you!” he ejaculated. “You've got the drop, so I may as well own Hurricane Kit smiled approvingly. ‘* A wise decision, truly,” heremarked. ‘‘ You might have come to that conclusion half an hour ago, and thus saved all this bether. Come, now, where are Charles Castleton and his daugh- ter? ‘* We took them to the rendezvous, senor,” an- swered Red Juan. ** And where is that?” ‘Tn a cave in the mountains.” ** How far from here?” ** About a mile.” “Can you guide us there?” ‘* Si, senor!” ‘* Good!” exclaimed Kit, in elation. luck is in our favor.” ‘**You bet!” assented Jonathan Jinks, laconi- csp ‘*T know’d ther p’izen Greaser’d throw "up" is keerds when yeou showed a full hand 0’ sixes. ‘* That shows the amount of persuasive power in a revolver,” laughed Kit. th two friends now held a brief consulta- on. Both were eager to start for the place where their friends were concealed, but they realized the hazard of moving in daylight, when they were liable at any moment to come in contact with some of their Bullion City enemies. Therefore, it was deemed advisable to wait until night, and move under the cover of dark- ** Pard, ness, The day dragged slowly away, each minute seeming an hour to the young adventurer, who was neneue to start to the rescue of the girl he loved. The countryman shared his companion’s anx- ut night came at Jast, and our friends made Lae te for embarking on their enterprise. Juan was set at liberty, and commanded to lead the ver: Hurricane Kit followed close behind, with re- volver drawn, ready to send a bullet crashing through the brain of the Mexican at the first sign of treachery on his part, while Jinks brought up the rear, his sharp eyes ever on the lookout for danger. The Greaser went on without hesitation. He was acting in good faith, for he knew that certain death awaited him if he did other- wise. The direction he took led them away from the ‘own, on the Ng pb side from that where vhe stronghold of Lightning Dick was located. He kept on until about a mile had been tra- versed, and then struck a narrow, half-beat- en trail that wound in and out among the bowlders, Here Red Juan paused. “*T dare gono further, for fear I shall be seen by my comrades on guard,” he whispered. “ The cave is straight ahead, about fifty yards away. on at finding it, if you follow * enough,” said Hurricane Kit, in the same guarded tone. ‘‘If that’s the case, we have no further need of your guidance.” “ Then [ can go?” the Mexican asked, with un- concealed eagerness, “No, indeed!” replied Kit, promptly. ‘I’ve no notion of letting you go to warn your com- rades of our approach. I intend to leave you here until eet Pare Then, if you ie Des oe In g aith, you shall be set at liberty; but ifjon the contrary, you bave deceived us, you. bell ey dearly for your treachery.” With assiscnce of Jinks the Mexiean Was securely bound and gagged, an operation to which the fellow submitted with very ill grace. This done, the helpless Greaser was pitched eee EE ee Wiack Buckekta: unceremoniously into the bushes a few feet dis- tant from the engg Then, with their revolvers ready for immedi- ate use, the two daring adventurers cautiously advanced along the trail. Hurricane Kit led the way, and the country- man followed close at his heels. Not a word was spoken, as they advanced with the noiselessness of serpents, crawling on their hands and knees, and seeming a part of the gray earth itself. eg anwies Kit halted, uttering a low, warning i ss. «The sound of approaching footsteps reached his ears. Crouching behind a bowlder, the two men, with ready weapons, watched and waited in breathless suspense. CHAPTER X. A FIEND AT WORK. Let us shift the scene to the secret rendezvous of Black Gaspard. It was a large cavern in the heart of the mountain, accessible only by means of a narrow, well-concealed path. The cavern consisted of two apartments, rude- ly furnished, separated from each other by a curtain of skins. In the larger of these, at one end, a cheerful fire was blazing, the smoke escaping through an opening overhead. Around the fire were gathered several ruffians, who were passing away the time by playing cards. At the other end of the cavern, a man was stretched out upon the rocky floor; it was no other than Charles Castleton, the banker, bound hand and foot. On the other side of the curtain, lying upon a couch of skins, was his daughter, Cora, whose swollen eyes gave evidence that she had been weeping violently. Neither her hands nor her feet were secured, but they might as well have been, for it was im- possible to leave the place without being detect- ed by the sharp-eyed guards at the other end of the cavern. The maiden felt that her situation was a peril- ous one; why she had been brought to that dis- mal place she could not conjecture, and terrible fears filled her breast as she listened to the oaths and ribald jests of the ruffians outside, She knew her father was near by, but she dared not speak to him, for her rough guards had threatened to gag her if she uttered a sound. The banker, thought, It was evident to him that he was in the hands of desperate men, and he was greatly con- cerned, not so much for his own safety as for that of his defenseless daughter. As he lay there, bound hand and foot, Charles Castleton recalled his interview with Li htning Dick, and he heartily wished that he hail taken the advice of the road-agent and turned his back on Bullion City. The outlaw chief had been right, when he said that danger awaited him in the rough mining- too, was deeply buried in camp. But the advice had gone unheeded, and now the banker could only wonder how he was to get out of his unpleasant predicament. Castleton had endeavored to learn from the men who guarded him, the purpose for which he and his daughter had been brought there, but they had promptly made him understand that the less he said the better it would be for him, so he was forced to remain in ignorance. Hour after hour dragged slowly away, every minute seeming an age to the disconsolate pris- oners, while the ruffians, deeply engross in their game, paid no attention to those whom they had been detailed to watch. inally, about the middle of the afternoon following Castleton’s abduction, a man strode boldly into the cavern, He was Black Gaspard. At a wave of his hand, the guards retired, and the Gambler King was left alone with his prisoner. At sight of the gambler, Castleton gave vent to a low cry of surprise. hes pad hi oe aca med. ck Gaspard laughed. ‘Yes, I!” he answered. ‘‘My dear sir, how do you find yourself to-day? Well, I hope.” “Tf I am, no thanks to you, for I suppose it is to you that I am indebted for my sudden change of location,” retorted the banker, curtly. Rhea guess like a Yankee, my friend,” ad- mit ‘ | neaeasienclligls a : ica etait hatte git i tei eines Canina “Well,” continued the prisoner, calmly “suppose you enlighten me as to the meaning of all this. am desirous of knowing why | and my daughter are routed at night and brought to this desolate place. Explain, sir, if you please!” The Gambler King chuckled. “ Allin good time, sir. Don’t be too impa- tient. Remember, Rome was not built ina day. First, let me inquire, how do you like your present quarters?” s‘So well that I am anxious to get out of them,” growled Castleton, in response. ‘“*T thought so,” laughed the gambler. ‘‘ This eave is not so pleasant as some places, and I dare say you will leave it without regret.” “ Providing I get a chance. When do you in- tend to let us go, Black Gaspard?” The gambler smiled grimly. ‘“‘My dear sir,” he responded, ‘‘ that depends altogether upon yourself,” yh What do you mean?” “Simply that, unless you agree to certain conditions, you will never leave this cave alive,” was Gaspard’s startling declaration. Ashe glanced into the stern face of the gam- bler, Charles Castleton felt that he was in the power of a bold, unscrupulous villain, who would hesitate at nothing, and a feeling of un- easiness crept over him. “T suppose you mean to extort ransom,” he suggested, calm to all outward appearances. The gambler nodded approvingly. ‘My friond, you’ve hit the nail squarely on the head,” he exclaimed. ‘* You seem to know my intentions as well as I do myself.” ‘“ Your audacity is sublime, sir,” cricd the banker. ‘‘ Brigandage is out of date.” ‘“Not in Bullion City,” corrected Black Gas- pard, laughingly. ‘“*Confound Bullion City! I wish I had never seen the infernal place,” exclaimed Castleton, and the wish came from the innermost depths of his heart, ‘‘ Well, you scoundrel, for how much will you set my daughter and I at lib- erty? e banker breathed more freely, now that he believed that a certain sum would secure their release, but the reply of the gambler fell upon his ears like a thun Sige ing forward, with his glittering eyes fas- tened on the face of his prisoner, Black Gas- pard gave his answer, bringing out each word ery and with startling distinctness. ‘*For fifty thousand dollars, and the hand of your daughter in marriage!” Charles Castleton was speechless. The audacity of the villain’s proposition almost took his breath away. Black d stoed keenly watching the effect of his words upon the banker. ‘“ Well,” he said, after a brief pause, ‘t what think you of my conditions, Charles Castleton?” The reply of the banker was prompt and to the point. “Your demands are ridiculous,” he exclaimed, ‘Cand will receive no attention. If you seck to impose on me in this manner, you miserable scoundrel, you will find you have got hold of the wrong man.” His tones were energetic and excited, but the Gambler King only laughed, provokingly. ‘Keep cool, my dear sir, and listen to reason,” he said. ‘‘ Please bear in ming that you are wholly in my power, and, therefore, it will be well fer you to do as I wish. I have here a blank check on a Denver bank, in which, if I am correctly informed, you have deposited con- siderably more than the sum Imentien. Now, all you have to do is to fill out this blank, mak- ing it‘payable to the order of ycurself, sign and indorse it. The rest I will attend to.” ‘‘T I] see you in a warmer place, first,” de- clared Castleton, emphatically. ‘‘ The sum you name is outrageous, to say nothing of the other part of your proposal.” “Ah! You refer to your daughter. I sup- pose. I tell you, friend Castleton, my heart is set on that girl, and mine she shall be. But, of course, I want the stern sire’s consent before the knot is tied.” : “You'll never get it, you fiend,” cried’ the banker, excitedly. ‘‘ I would suffer a thousand deaths before ? would consent to such an ar- rangement.” Black Gaspard’s face grew stern. “You'll find I'm not trifling,” he said, grim- ly. ‘I mean business. That, then, is your de- cision?” * Tt is,” replied the banker, firmly. ‘*Nothing cen alter it?” “ Nothing.” . A grim Koow ‘SWept ‘over the swarthy counte- nence of the gam 4 “« We will see,” said, quiethy.
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SS ke, Fs men bounded into the cave. The Gambler King issued his instructions in a low tone, and the rufflans sprung to work with alacrity. A stout post was planted in a crevice in the rocky floor at the furthermost end of the cavern and to it Charles Castleton was securely bound. | coolly. A quantity of combustible material was then | obtained, and scattered in a circle around the post, The banker comprehended what was coming, but he viewed the proceedings with a contempt- uous sneer. The rufflans worked with all the zeal of red ! {Indians preparing their victim for the torture ig s ) and speedily had things in readiness for busi- | mess. Then they stood in a state of eager expectancy, waiting their leader’s Comutiane to ignite the ile. Black Gaspsrd approached the banker. ‘““The boys are eager for the fun,” he said, **but if you choose to give in, the proceedings shall be indefinitely postponed. Come,this is your last chance. Will you sign the check?” Castleton cast a look of scorn upon his perse- cutor. ‘“* Never!” he cried. worst. I defy you!” Gaspard, nettled by the obstinacy of his pris- oner, uttered a curse. ‘Touch her off, boys!” he directed. But before this could be done, there was an unexpected interruption. With a shrill scream, Cora Castleton flung aside the curtain of skins, and swiftly crossing the intervening space, threw herself upon her knees at the feet of the gambler, wildly entreat- ing him to spare her father’s life. The sight of the fair girl kneeling there, with disheveled hair and tearful eyes, would have moved most men, but Black Gaspard possessed a heart of flint. **Confound the jade!” he growled, harshly, annoyed at the inte ruption. ‘‘ Here, some of you, take her away and stop her infernal noise.” | Two ruffians seized the pleading maiden and, in spite of her desperate struggles, hustled her away without ceremony, while the Gambler King, with his own hand, fired the heap of com- bustibles that surrounded the prisoner. It was not his intention to kill the banker, by any means. It would be a poor policy to kill the goose that laid the golden eggs. But Black Gaspard meant to give his prisoner a thorough heating, confident that he could con- quer his obstinate spirit, and make him conform | to his wishes. The fire blazed up brightly. It was soarranged that the flames would not reach the person of the -oxergil yet he would get the full benefit of the eat. The elated ruffians continually piled on fresh material, and the fire every moment grew hot- ter. Soon the heat began to be felt by the prisoner, but not a muscle of his face changed; he was de- termined not to gratify his tormentors by either word or look. With face stern and relentless as Fate itcelf, Black Gaspard stood with folded arms, keenly watching the banker. He thought that the latter would soon be glad to cry for mercy, but he was disappointed, for Castleton showed no signs of yielding. An exclamation of impatience escaped him, as he noted the stoical indifference with which the banker faced the torture. ‘‘ He’s a gritty one, but, by Heaven! I'll bring him down a peg,” he grimly said to himself. Hotter grew the fire, stirred by the gambler’s hirelings, who hugely enjoyed the novel sport. Soon the heat was almost intolerable, but Cas- tleton set his teeth firmly, and not a sound es- eaped him. Another minute passed; then there was a low moan, as the head of the tortured banker sunk forward upon his breast. Human nature could stand no more; he had fainted. With a muttered curse, the gambler leaped forward, ering the flaming brands, and reaching thé side of the prisoner, whom he cut loose with a few vigorous strokes of the knife. He had feared that the banker was dead, but now a swift inspection showed him that it was a a faint. what effect the roasting has had a liberal throat of the ‘* Go ahead, and do your | \ many Black Buckskin. ' He gave a shrill signal, and immediately his unconscious banker, who soon opened his eyes and glared wildly around. A deep groan fell from the lips of the wretched man as he recalled his terrible position, and Black Gaspard laughed gloatingly. ““The genial warmth of yonder bonfire does not seem to agree with you,” he: remarked “My dear sir, ten minutes more o such red-hot fun would have converted you into a most excellent roast. Indeed, you look tender already.” Charles Castleton glared fiercely at his tor- mentor, but made no reply to the taunting speech. f The Gambler King drew a paper from his pocket and extended it toward his prisoner. ‘Here is the check,” he remarked, quietly. ‘* Will you sign it? If not, back you go to the | fire. Take your choice!” The banker hesitated. At first he had doubted the intentions of bis captor, believing that the threats were made for the purpose of frightening him into submis- | sion, but now he was firmly convinced that Black Gaspard had the heart, as well as the power, to yield. Charles Castleton loved life dearly; and, be- sides, if he lived, he might be of aid to his | daughter, who would otherwise be hopelessly in the power of the ruffian; so, with a choking voice, he signified his willingness to yield. The Gambler King chuckled with grim satis- faction as he produced a pocket inkstand and pen and handed them to the banker, together with the blank check. ** Good!” he exclaimed. ‘‘I had a conviction that a slight foretaste of what awaits you in another world would serve to bring you to your senses.” With trembling hand, Castleton filled out the check, according to direction, and handed it to his persecutor, who stored it away in his pocket with an air of intense satisfaction. ‘Thank you, my friend!” he exclaimed. ‘I only regret that you did not yield before, as it would have spared you considerable pain, but for that you have yourself to thank. Now, then, I am off for Denver, to realize on this: bit of Pe per which you have so kindly furnished me. Vhen I return, Pll bring a preacher with me, and then we will celebrate a certain event by setting you at liberty: Ha! ha!” The prisoner groaned. ‘“Well, my friend,” continued the gambler, ‘“‘T'm sorry to leave you, but I must go. to find Zou in better spirits when I return. u revoir |” With a mocking laugh, Black Gaspard took his departure, while the unfortunate banker, sinking upon the rocky floor, groaned in agony of body and spirit. CHAPTER XI. IN THE CAVERN, CRoucHING low beside the trail, Hurricane Kit and Jonathan Jinks anxiously watched and waited. The fener rapidly drew nearer, and pres- ently a man hurried past the place where they were concealed, coming from the direction of the cave. Owing to the darkness, his face could not be seen, but the two watchers recognized the tall, athletic form as that of the Gambler King. “Tt’s Black Gaspard, and he has been to in- terview his prisoners,” was Kit’s inward ex- clamation. All unconscious of the eitciig J of his foes, the gambier strode swiftly along the trail, and soon the echoes of his footsteps died away in the distance. a The two trailers remained in their hiding- place, however, not_ knowing how many men might be following the gambler. ° But ten—twenty minutes passed in silence, and, feeling that further delay was unnecessary, Hurricane Kit gave the word to advance. Cautiously the two men crawled along the rocky path, with all the stealth of Indian trail- ers. They were surrounded by gloom so intense that objects ten feet away were invisible, and they realized that everything depended on their caution. The foe ht be close by, and, if such were the case, the slightest sound on the part of our friends would betray their whereabouts, and at- tract a volley of pistol bullets. Five minutes passed eo silence. Suddenly Hurricane Kit halted, clutching the arm of his com * Look abi on. {” he whispered. urn him to a crisp if he did not | _ Jinks did so, and immediately gave a violent start. What they saw was a small, round lighs, glowing in the darkness like a coal of fire. ‘““What is it—a jack-o’-lantern?” whispered | Johathan, with a tinge of superstition. For a moment Kit made no reply. He was puzzled to tell the nature of the light ahead of them. Suddenly, however, light broke upon him. ‘*T see!” he whispered. ‘‘ Yonder light is nothing more nor less than the lighted end of a | cigar, and it naturally follows that there is a | man behind it.” ; ‘* Eegsactly !” assented Jinks. “Tt is doubtless one of the gambler’s men, | who is guarding the entrance to the cave,” con- tinued Kit, in an undertone. ‘‘He must be disposed of.” n easy matter that, for a dead-shot like Kit, with the tell-tale light to guide his aim; but | the youth was not inclined to use his revolver. He knew that the pistol-shot would alarm the sentry’s comrades inside the cave, and this would be disastreus;to his plans. The work must be done silently. Directing his companion to remain where he a) Hurricane Kit crept stealthily toward the ight. He realized that the task before him was no orf one. he outlaw must be silenced without attract- ing the attention of those within the cavern. Asingle cry would be sufficient to defeat his enterprise. But the youth proved himself equal to the oc- casion. Creeping over the ground like a serpent, he | was soon near enough to dimly distinguish the form of the sentinel, carelessly leaning against a bowlder at the entrance to the cave. Nearer the daring young trailer approached, his heart fairly in his throat lest, by some un- lucky movement, he should betray his presence. But luck favored him, and the paard smoked on, totally. unconscious of the danger that threatened him. Nearer and nearer Kit drew, until at length, but a few feet separated him from the unsus- pecting ruffian. Then, with a spring like that of a panther, the youth was upen him, both hands ciutching his throat as he bore him to the ground. The fellow struck the earth with a dull thud, lying there without a move. The reason for this was obvious. In falling, his head had struck a sharp rock, the force of the blow depriving him of his senses, Kit was well pleased at the easy way in which the guard had been disposed of, and he cautious- ly signaled to his companion, who was quickly on the spot. The unconscious ruffian was speedily bound, "= carried among the rocks and bushes to one side. This done they waited to see if the slight dis- bs Ngan had reached the ears of the men in- side. No sound came from within, however, and deeming the coast clear, our friends cautiously entered the narrow passage which led to the cave, As they progressed, the faint murmur of voices reached their ears, while a gleam of light was visible at the end of the tunne]. Progressing noiselessly,sthe two men reached the end of the passage, and peered cautiously out into the underground be pig The ruffians had removed all traces of the ter- ture to which the banker had recently been sub- mitted, and were once more gathered about the fire, indulging their natural propensities for gambling. There were five of them, all stalwart, hard- featured fellows, and our friends foresaw that the task of subduing them would be no easy one. At the other end of the chamber the form of Charles Castleton could be distinguished, and, though she was rot to be seen, Hurricane Kit rightly conjectured that Cora was behind the curtain of skins. ’ Silently our friends looked in upon the pietur- ue scene, wie ‘shad ey were in the ows, and, consequenti felt deniats from observation, j A The ards, intent on their game, little dreamed of the presence of enemies. A moment passed, and Hurricane Kit was considering the best mode of action, when sud- denly one of the ruffians threw down his cards arose, and walked directly toward the mouth of the tunnel, where our two friends were crouch- heed —_
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¢ Thus they progressed, until they could no “a with difficulty suppressed a cry of dis- may, It was evidently the fellow’s intention to pass through the passage, and if he did so, it was hardly probable that they would escape dis- covery. Crouching close to the wall, with drawn | knives, the two trailers waited in breathless | anxiety. Woe to the luckless ruffian if he chanced to detect them, for ten inches of cold steel would be instantly buried in his body. But the man passed by without being made aware of their presence, although he came so close to Kit that their garments touched. Our friends breathed more freely when the danger was over, but the next moment another fact was brought to mind. The outlaw had gone outside, and of course he would at once note the absence of the guard, This would lead to an investigation, the result of which was liable to be disastrous to Hurricane Kit and his pard. Kit was determined to reach the captives and liberate them, and then make a desperate dash for the open air. There was no time to be lost, and the youth cautiously crept into the cave, motioning his companion to follow. Keeping in the shadows, they advanced with the noiselessness of cats, hugging close to the wall. longer do so in safety. ey must now cross the space illuminated by the firelight, and it seemed impossible to do so without being discovered by the ruffians, who sat scarcely a dozen feet away. Our friends paused ina state of indecision, and at this moment there came a loud shout from outside the cave. The disappearance of the sentinel had been discovered, and the next moment the man came running back to inform his comrades. The latter started to their feet, and darted away to look for their missing companion, for- getting the prisoners in their confusion. Now was the time for action, and, bounding across the chamber, the two rescuers speedily cut the bonds that secured their friends. Both Castleton and his daughter were profuse in their thanks to their bold deliverers, and Hur- ricane Kit felt like clasping the fair girl in his arms; but he felt that it was no time for tender- ness, There was desperate work todo. 4 ‘** Come, friends!” exclaimed the ‘yo man, hurriedly; ‘‘ there is no time to lose. “We must ht our way out of here. Mr. Castleton, follow close ind us with your daughter. Hurry!” He sprung forward ashe spoke, with Jonathan Jinks at his side, but at at moment there was a confused pattering of feet, and the five ruffians dashed into the cavern. They had sae the nature of the © on foot, and h in just in time to block the passage of the fugitives. At sight of the two daring intruders, they ut- tered a wild yell and forward. With a cry of defiance, Hurricane Kit con- fronted the ruffians, his revolvers cocked and leveled. “* Back, you scoundrels!” he thundered. ‘‘ Sure death awaits the first man who advances.” Jonathan Jinks stood with leveled weapons, ready to support his friend. “‘] reckon thar ’ll be a first-class circus hyar, ef you galoots don’t haul off,” he remarked, y. The two men presented such a determined front that the gambler’s hirelings paused, awed by the glittering “sixes” that looked them in the face It was a wild and picturesque ‘cne—the two resolute men bravely holdirg at bay the infuri- a ruffians; the banker and his daughter crouching, terrified, behind them; while over all the fire cast a weird, fantastic light. __ y for a moment did the fone hesitate. — bi gee shouts, ox. rushed Sowa. 0 reports, blended as one, promp followed the advance, and two of the men fell to the floor, with cries of agony. : The others did not waver, but kept determin- edly on, and the next moment the air rung with the cracking of revolvers and the shouts of the combatants, For a moment it seemed as if Pandemonium had broken loose within the narrow confines of the cavern, but then the conflict suddenly came | "the result <—— ends, was tifying to our fri Four of the rote oe stretched upon the 5 oe | Black Buckskin. the top of his speed for a place of safety. Jinks pursued him as far as the entranee, fir- ing shot after shot at his flying form, but the fellow escaped serious injury, and fled like a deer down the mountain-side in the direction of Bullion City. j rocky floor, while the sole survivor was flying at As he spoke, Lightning Dick vaulted lightly | through the window, and immediately after came the clatter of hoofs, as he rode swiftly out of the camp. Black Gaspard cursed fiercely as he hastened to unlock the door, for the audacious outlaw had | carried the check away with him. Our friends lost no time in leaving the cavern. | None of them had been injured in the late en- counter, and, though Castleton was weak and unnerved from his recent experience, he insisted on an immediate departure. It was with feel- ings of heartfelt joy that he turned his back | upon the place where he had undergone such a terrible ordeal. Hurricane Kit supported Cora, while the banker leaned upon the sturdy arm of the coun- tryman, and in this manner they slowly made their way down the mountain-side, As they passed the Ly where Red Juan had been left, Hurricane Kit, remembering his pro- — to the Mexican, stopped and set him at iberty. The rascal, glad to get off so easily, speedily made himself scarce, and our friends continued their way. They proceeded cautiously, not knowing how many of Black Gaspard’s hirelings might be in | the vicinity. But fortune favored them, and, an hour later, they were safe in the mountain fastness of Lightning Dick. CHAPTER XII. EXIT BLACK GASPARD, AT the same time that these exciting scenes were being enacted in the mountain cave, Black Gaspard sat in his apartment, with his chair til back and his feet upon the table, lazily puffing a cigar. From the adjoining room came the faint mur- mur of voices, but the gambler paid no heed to them; he was gloating over his success, and forming more elaborate schemes for the future. In his hand he held the check that he had that day forced the banker to sign, and he frequent- ly read it over, the operation seeming to afford him great satisfaction. “Fifty thousand dollars!” he muttered, com- placently. ‘‘That’s net so bad. Once let me get hold of the cash, and I'll say good-by to this infernal place, where road-agents are getting to be thicker than hairs on a d With the fair Cora for my bride, I will seek a more civilized community, and there live at my ease for the ce of my life. As for the ol go to the d—1, for all I care, unless I choose to bleed him for another fifty thousand. Ha, ha! A good idea, that. I think I will con- sider it—” A black-gloved hand suddenly reached over | As the gambler opened the door, a man stag- gered into the room. It was the fellow who had escaped from the mountain cave, covered with blood and dirt un- til he was scarcely recognizable. It took but a minute for him to tell his story, and if ever there was an angry man, it was the | Gambler King, then. He swore and raved, and frothed at the mouth like a madman, but after awhile his rage began to moderate, and he grew move calm and collected. “*Tom!” he cried. Hurry !” The ruffian hastened away, and Bleck Gas- pard impatiently paced the floor, chafing like a caged tiger. ‘**A thousand curses on my infernal luck!” he “Go and collect the boys. growled. ‘‘ The check is gone, and the prison- ers, too. Perdition! They must and shall be recovered.” It did not take long to collect the ruffians who acknowledged Black Gaspard as their chief and employer; they were generally where he could cat them at any moment, and within half an hour after the departure of Lightning Dick, the gambler was on the way to Sis mountain re- treat, with over a score of bold cut-throat. at his back. Day was just breaking when he reached the cave. There he found the bodies of his men, as well as the sentinel who had been bound and gagged by Hurricane Kit; but the prisoners had flown. However, it was an easy matter to find their trail, and this they followed with the persistency of bloodhounds, The fugitives had not tried to conceal their trail, and Black Gaspard and his gang followed with untiring persistence until, at length, the found themselves at the gloomy bottom of Deat Canyon. Had the gambler been less excited, he would have th t twice before venturing into the canyon, after his recent rience there; but, ' as it was, he thought only of recovering his lost ers prisoners. But Black Gaspard was destined to pay dearly man, he can | fer his heedlessness. should Upon rounding a sharp bend in the trail, he was astounded to see a party of masked horse- men stretched across the canyon, silently await- ing his re ightning Dick sat upon his horse, a few paces errant of his men, grim and moti asa his shoulder, and snatched the pasioes check. | in Black Gaspard gave a start t nearly upset | statue. his —— as he turned fiercély on the in- truder, A masked man stood quietly before him, and Black Gaspard felt, rat. knew, that it was Lightning Dick. “The d—1!" gasped the gambler, in astonish- ment. ‘No; only his representative,” corrected the road-agent, coolly. ‘‘ You seem surprised to see me, Black Gaspard.” “Curse you! How did you get here?” de- manded the gambler. y Lightning Dick nodded significantty teward the o window. “Very careless in you to leave it open,” he re- marked. The hand of the Gambler King furtively sought his belt, but, stealthy as the movement _— it did not escape the keen eyes of the out- oe In a twinkling his own revolver was out and threatening the gambler. “That game won’t work,” he declared, em- phatically. ‘Throw up your hands!” With a baffled curse, Black rd obeyed. ** You've got the drop, so there’s no use kick- ing,” he said, eeceren scaly. ‘* What's your little game, anyhow?” Lightning Dick laughed. “Nothing in particular,” he answered. happened to look in while making and beheld you examining this “cc I my rounds, r. I be- . ' re came curious to learn what it was, so I dropped | “ And you'll oblige me by dropping out | again,” growled the gambler, , At this moment there was a loud rap at the oor. The road- t started, uneasily. “T think Pl be going,” he exclaizied. * Good- night, Gaspard Gonzales. Weshall meetagain.” | ‘“‘ Hands up!” he ordered, sternly, as the gang from Bullion City used in consternation. ‘Surrender or die! We have you corraled.” Dismayed, the gambler and his men turned to flee, bet as they did so, a second party under ef Hurricane Kit filed silently out into the pass, cutting off their retreat. The Gambler King was completely surround- ed, and a curse, loud and furious, burst from his li At Perdition ” he “We are in a trap. Forward! boys, and cut your way out.” His men sprung forward with a yell, and at the same time the two parties of road-agents closed in upon them. The next moment the canyon was filled with the sounds of conflict—the spiteful crack of re- volvers, the whizzing of bullets, the neighing of horses, and the wild cries of the struge ing ruf- fians for Lightning Dick’s outlaws fought in per- fect silence. Black Gaspard and his followers battled fiercely, for life and liberty were at stake, but their exertions were in vain. The knights of the road erie down upon them in an overwhelming , and, after five minutes of desperate conflict, with nearly half their number killed, and the Gambler King, himself, captured, the remainder threw down their arms and cried for quarter. Lightning Dick’s loss was slight, and without loss of time he had his prisoners carried to the stronghold, elated at his triumph. The dead were buried, and all traces of the conflict speedily removed from the canyon. An hour later Black Gaspard was brought be- tors he en ~ = pe het ightning stood awaiting , stern and relentless as Fate; beside him were grouped Hurricane Kit, Jonathan Jinks, Charles Castle- ton and Cora, while behind them the eutlaws
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were ranged in a semicircle, grim and motion- less as so many specters, It was an impressive tableau, but the gam- bler did not enjoy it. Instead, his eyes glowed like those of a wild beast at bay, and curses loud and deep fell from his lips, as he glared at his foes. He saw that the tables had been neatly turn- ed; the game was up, and visions of a tree and a dangling rope floated before his eyes. There was a moment of painful silence, and then Lightning Dick spoke. ‘“Gaspard Gonzales,” he exclaimed, in stern accents, ‘‘ you are at the end of your rope. The time has come to check your villainous career. Do you know who I am? No; then let me en- lighten you, One year ago, this gold valley was in the possession of a miner, George Brascombe, and his child, when you swept down with your gang of cut-throats, and wrested it from them. e miner was left to die, but the child escaped, swearing to avenge him, and recover the prop- erty. ith this end in view, Gaspard Gonzales, I have worked, until now the time has come to claim my own, Yes, Black Gaspard, I am the miner’s child—his daughter, Bertha!” As the road-agent finished speaking, the black mask was removed, and the stern but beautiful features of a young woman of twenty were re- vealed. Hurricane Kit uttered a loud cry of astonish- ment, and it was echoed by Jinks, the country- man, who had been strangely affected by the outlaw’s narrative. He sprung forward with a glad cry, tearing off his and wig as he did so, disclosing the not unhandsome face of a man of fifty. “ Bertha 1” ** Father!” And the next moment they were wrapt in an affectionate embrace. George Brascombe soon explained. He had been rescued from his perilous position by a friendly Indian, who kindly. took him to his cave, where he immediately recovered from his injuries. mn he returned to Bullion City, where he re- mained, as Jonathan Jinks, vainly watching for some chance to recover his possessions and total- ly ignorant that Lightning Dick and his lost daughter were identical. e meeting between him and Bertha was tender in the extreme, and Black Gaspard, in this hour of joy, could but feel that he was euchered at every point. That afternoon our friends boldly entered Bul- lion City with their prisoners. Of course their coming caused intense excite- ment, and frequent were the ‘cries of astonish- ment as the “‘ cits” looked for the first time upon on eee face of the famous Lightning ick, Fierce were the glances bestowed on the dar- ing intruders, but George Brascombe earnestly addressed the excited populace. He told his story briefly, but with an air that convinced his hearers of its truth, and did not forget to reveal Black Gaspard’s dealings with Castleton, the banker. Popular feeling is easily changed in the West and the happy result was that the fickle crowd cheered our friends until they were hoarse, while fierce, vindietive looks were cast upon the discomfited Gambler King. A neck-tie party was held in his honor, and when the sun went down, that night, its last rays fell upon the ghastly forms of Black Gaspard ‘and his men, swinging grimly from the trees. There is but little to add, The Castletons immediately departed for the Fast; the banker had seen enough of western ways, and preferred to end the remainder of his days where human life was valued a little more Beh. As for Hurricane Kit, he decided to remain with his road-agent friends until they were fair- ly settled in their new quarters; but, when he parted from Cora Casleton, it was with the un- derstanding that he was to visit her eastern Seem at no distant day, and claim her for his ride. George Brascombe and Bertha, Lightning | Dick no longer, assumed control of affairs, and were soon on the high road to fortune. Bullion City, to-day, cleared of its rough characters, is one of the most orderly and pros- perous towns in Colorado, butits “‘ oldest i bi- tants” delight to entertain the stranger with stories of the red-hot days, when Black ruled the camp, and Lightning Dick took toll among the neighboring mountains. THE END, Half-Dime Singer's Library 1 Wuoa, Esuta! and 50 other Songs. 2 Caprain Curr and 57 other Songs, 3 THe Garnszoro’ Har and 62 other Songs. 4 Jounny Morean and 60 other Songs. 5 ut Srrixe You WITH A Fearser and 62 others, 6 GrorGs THE CHARMER and 56 other Songs. 7 Tae Bette or Rockaway and 52 other Songs, 8 Youne FELuan, You're Too Fress and 60 others 9 Suy Youne Grew and 65 other Songs, 10 I'm tHe GovERNoR’s OnLy Son and 58 other Songs, 11 My Faw and 65 other Songs. 12 Comm’ Touro’ tur Rye and 55 other Sengs. 13 Toe Rotiickine IrisHMan and 59 other Songs. 14 Otp Doa Tray and 62 other Songs, 15 Waoa, Cuariife and 59 other Songs, 16 In TH1s WaeEar By anv By and 62 otner Songs. 17 Nancy Leg and 58 other Songs. 18 I’m THE Boy Tmat’s Bounv To BLaze and 57 others, 19 Tae Two OrpHans and 59 othe. Songs, 20 WHat ARE THE WiLD Waves Sayina, Sister? and 59 other Songs. 21 InpianantT Potty Woe and 59 other Songs, 22 ‘lax OLp ARM-CHaiR and 58 other Songs. 23 On Contry IsLanp Beacn and 58 other Songs, 24 O_p Simon, THE Hot-Corn MAN and 60 others, 25 I’m in Love and 56 other Songs. 23 PARADE OF THE GvuarRDS and 56 other Songs. 27 Yo, Hxeave, Ho! and 60 other Songs. 28 ’T'witt Never po to Giz rr up So and 60 others, 29 Brut Bonnets Over THE RorpER and 54 others, 30 Tar Merry Lavenine Man and 56 other Songs, $1 Sweet Forexr-me-Nor and 55 other Songs. 82 LeeTLe Basy Mine and 53 other Songs. 83 Dz Banjo AM DE INSTRUMENT FoR ME and 53 others, 34 Tarry and 50 other Songs. 35 Jost To PLEASE THE Boys and 52 other Songs. 86 SKATING ON ONE IN THE GUTTER and 52 others, 37 KoLoreD Kranks and 59 other Songs. 38 Ni, DespexanpuM and 53 other Songs. 89 Tue Girt I Lerr Benny Me and 50 other Songs 40 "Tis But A LartLe Fapep Ftower and 50 others 41 Pretry WaILHELMINA and 60 other Songs. 42 DANCING IN THE BAkN and 63 other Songs. 43 H. M.S. Prnarore. compLete, and 17 other Songs. Sold everywhere by Newsdealers, at five cents per copy, or sent post-paid, to any address, on re- ceipt of Sia cents per number. BEADLE AND ADAMS, PvusBLisHErs, 98 Wittiam Street, New Yorx, Baadles Week The Best Weekly of Popular, Entertain-e ing and Useful Literature Pub- lished in America! Its Unrivaled Corps of Contributors, almost all of whom write erclusively for its publishers—embraces the gpllowing authors of world wide repute— Cdisnel Prentiss Ingraham. Albert W. Aiken, Capt, Fred, Whittaker, Capt. Mark Wilton, Joseph E. Badger, Jr.. Edward L. Wheeier, Charles Morris, Oll Coomes, C. Dunning Clark, Buffalo Bill, White Beaver, Buckskin Sam, Major Dangerfield Burr, T. C. Harbaugh, Philip S. Warne, Williain R. Eyster, Anthony P. Morris, Launce Poyntz. Each and all of whom give to BrapLe’s Wrerkty their very best productions in all the varied fields of Border and Wild West Romance— Adventure Exploration and Sport— City Life Character, Courts and Ways— Detective and ‘Shadow’ Revelations— Stories of the Great Deep, etc., ete. So that each and every number is overflowing with reading of the most interesting and exciting nature; while in: its Special Departments, covering all the needs, and adding to the general interest and usefulness of the popular journal, BEADLE’s WEEKLY is the paper of all others for your weekly reading and entertainment, Beadle’s Weekly is Published at the Following Rates: POY POUT MORN eh ale cea bide. cient aan 7.00 For One Year... .. No BN te Ban tects ort ca eolad 3,90 Two Copies for One Year. ........ ....... ..... 5.00 Single Copies...... Fe RPG AY ONO eT re 6 cents BEADLE AND ADAMS, Pusiisuerrs, 98 William street, New York., BEADLE AND ADAMS’ STANDARD GIME PUBLICATIONS. Speakers. Each voitume contains 100 large pages, printed from clear, open type, comprising the best collec- tion of Dialogues, Dramas aad Recitations, The Dime Speakers embrace twenty-four volumes, Viz. 1, American Speaker. 13. School Speaker. 2. National Speaker. 14. Tudicrous Speaker. 3. Patriotic Speaker. | 15. Komikal Speaker. 4, Comic Speaker. | 16. Youth’s Speaker. 5, Elocutionist. 17, Eloquent ker. 6. Humorous Speaker. 6. Hail Columbia Speak- 7, Standard Speaker. er. 8. Stump Speaker. 19. Serio-Comic Speaker. 9. Juvenile Speaker. 20. Select ker. 0. Spread-Eagle Speaker | 21. Funny ker, 1. Dime Debater. 22. Jolly Speaker. 12. Exhibition Speaker. 23. Dialect aker. 2%, Dime Book of Rec itations and Readings. These books are replete with choice pieces for the School-room, the Exhibition, for Homes, etc. 7% to 100 Declamations and Recitations in each book, Dialogues. i The Dime Dialogues, each volume 100 pages, em- brace thirty-two books, viz.: Dialogues No. One. |Dialogues No. Seventeen. 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a. Sear * s Bae Din E*LIB Published Ewery Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers. © + nC reatler. 871 Kingbolt Chris, the Young Hord-Shell Detective $39 Avalanche Alf, the Foothills Guide, 90 Jaguar Joe, of the Mount:in Mail-Line. BY EDWARD 8. ELLIS, ¢ pai. Ba Jon, Trapper. Se ones; or, The Captives or the Fro: . 10 Nat Todd; or, The Fate of the Sioux Gonine: 21 The Frontier Angel, 98 The Roy Miners: or, The Enchanted Istana, 138 The Hunted Hunter; or, The Strange Horsemas, 54 The Walf-Rlood ; or, The Pantherof the Plaine, 271 The Il-ge Hunter; or, The Steam Prairie Maa. BY MAJOR LEWIS W. OARSON, 278 The Three Tra Th . BES Tha Thyce Trappers: or. The Mountsta Moneta BY W. J. HAMILTON, 68 The Red Brotherhood; or, The Twelve Avengem 66 Single Hand; or, A Life for a Life. 72 Mad Tom Western, the Texan Ranger, 887 Ben Bird, the Cave King; or, Big Pete’s Scoop, BY JACK FARRAGUT. 815 Ned, the Cabin Boy. 323 Tae Bea Bcrecress; 07, The Boy Shippss BY FRANK DUMONT. 1220 The Branded Hand: or, The Men of Myntax, . 127 Wild-Fire, the Boss of the Road. 140 Blue Blazes; or, The Break 0’ Day Boys of Rodkp Bre 171 Ebony Dan; or, The Rival Leagues. 185 Evil Eye} or, The Vultures of the Rio Granda, BY LIEUT. H. D. PERRY, U. 8. MN. 176 The Boy Runaway; or, The Buccaneer of the Bag, 180 The Sea Traller; or, A Vow Well Kept, 192 Captain Kit; or, The Mystery of Montauk Point BY HARRY HAZARD, 828 Arkansaw Jack; or, The Scourge of the Mines, 829 Red-Skin Tom; or, The Demon’s Trail, 842 The Mountain Devil; or, Yellow Jack, the Outlaw. BY COL. A. F. HOLT. 899 Black Buckskin; or, The Masked Men of Death Canyese 419 Kenneth, the Knuife-King. 485 Little Lightfoot, the Pilot ot the Woods, BY J, W. @OSBON. 469 The Rival Giants of Nowhar’. 498 Cactus Burr, the Man from Hard Lack, 587 Old Buckeye, the Sierra Shadow BY FREDERICK DEWEY, 818 Cimarron Jack, the King-Pin of Rifle-Sbote 478 Tangemund, the Desert Detective. 642 The Canyon Pards, MISCELLANEOUS AUTHORS, 4 The Wild-Horee Itunters, By Capt. Mayne Reid and . 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen. 12 Gulliver’s Travels, By Dean Swift, 14 Aladdin; or, The Wonderful Lamp, 16 Robinson Crusoe, (27 Illustrations.) 18 Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven Voyages. 22 The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinson Crosoa, By June wis 88 The Ocean Bloodhound or, The Red Pirates of the Carribeea, By S, W. Pierce, 86 7 Boy Clown; or, The Queen of the Arcra, By Frank . Finn. 88 Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 61 The Bey Rifles; or, The Underground Camp. By Asohie €. Irons. 95 The Rival Rovers; or, The Freebooters ©" the Mlsisstppt. By Lient.-Col. Hazeltine. 98 Robin Hood, the Vutlawed Eark; or, The Merry ..en of @reem- wood. By Prof. Gildersleeve. 105 Old Rube. the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive, By Captain Hamilton Holmes. 112 The Mad Hunter; or, The Cave of Death, By Durton Sass. 124 Tippy, the Texans or, The Young Champion. By George erson. 128 The Young Privateer; or, The Piraic’s Stronghold By Harry Cavendish. 148 Sharp Sam; or, The Adventures of a Friendless boy, By J. Alexander Patten. 7 Dusky D i, T : or, The G Ra f ie aot Desks Push Traraca See Meee 261 Fergus Fearnaught, the New York Boy. By George L. Aiken. 266 Killb’ar, the Guide; or, Davy Crockett’s Crooked Trait. By Ensign C. D. Warren. 298 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid of the Clift By Captain Comstock. 817 Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadvilie. By Liew tenant Alfred Thorne. 828 The Sky tbe*ectives or, A Boy’s Fight for Life and Honos. By Maior Mickey Free. 850 Red Ralph, the River Rovers or, Tbe Brother’s Re venge. By Ned Buntline. 865 Baltimore Ben, the Bootblack Detective. By A. P. Morrie, 874 Geld-Dust Tom} or, Ben’s Double Match. By Georges H. orse. 876 California Joe’s First Trail. By Colonel Thomas Hoyer Monstery. 418 Billy Bombshell, the Cliff Climber. By F. 8. Winthrep, 440 Little Foxfoot, the Gold Bowie Kid. By Arthur C, Grissom. 475 The Black Ship. By John S, Warner, a 484 Comanche Dick and His Three Invinciblea Henry J. Thomas. 623 Wizard-Arm, the Dandy Sport. By Arthur PF. Holt, 582 The Cowboy Duke. By Edwin Brooke Forrest, ? A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all sewsdesion, Bre cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents ench. \ BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers 98 William Street, New Weert
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Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. [8 5 RY ET REY eM RO, ES 2 SIT \ ~ BEADLE’S+H ALF- DIME* | IBRARY. 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. 8H Wild Ivan, tie Boy Claude Duval. 42 Phantom Miner; or, Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza. 49 Omaha O11; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger, 5i Deadwood Dick's Eagles; or, The Paris of Ficod Bar. 78 Dendwood Dick on Decks or. Calamity Jane, the Heroine, 77 Corduroy Charlie; or, Deadwood Dick’s Last Act 100 Deadwood Dick In Leadville. 104 Deadwood Dick's Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick's Duuble; or, The Ghost of Gorgon’s, | Gulch. 188 Llende Bill; or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base. 5 149 A Game of Gold; or, Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike. vrs 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivuls of the Rofd.; 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Last Ad- venture. é Per 217 Captain Orack-Shot, the Girl Brigand. “4, ¢ 221 Sugar-Coated Sam; or, The Black Gown. My 282 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughs. ° ; 263 Deadwood Dick's Divide 3 or, The Spirit of Swanbp Lake. 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. ‘ 809 Deadwood Dick’s Big Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. : rs B21 Deadwood Dick's Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats, $47 Deadwood Dick’s Ducuats; or, Rainy Days ‘in the Dig- gings. ° . 851 Deadwood Dick Sentenced; or, The Terrible Vendetta. 862 Deadwood Dick’s Claim; or, The Fairy Fate of ‘Faro F late. , ‘ 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonds; or, The Mystery of Joan Porter. ie 421 Deadwood Dick in New York; or, A“ Cute Cave.” “4 430 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. 443 Deadwood Dick, Jr. 448 Nickel-Plate Ned; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Defiance. "7 . . . d m 1 , ui 458 Sunilower Sam, of Shasta; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Fol) “ 468 Nepttine Ned) the Boy Conster, , Pits Flora or, Wizard Will's MA nang Pard. -% | 488 F - Hand, ‘% 459 Flush Fan, the Ferret; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Big Ronnd- Up. 465 Piitlo Fly, of Phenix; or, Deadwood Dick Je’s Racket at Claim 10, 471 Bozeman Bill}; or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Corral. 476 Mumboldt Harry, tue Hurricane; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s | Dog Detective. 481 Moll Myatery; or, Deadwood Dick Jr, in Deadwood. 491 Prince Pistol, the King of the West; or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Compact. 496 Monte Cristo, Jr.t or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Inheritance. 500 Deadwood Dick’s Diggings 3 or, Dr. Death-Grip’s Swoop. 508 Deadwood Dick’s Deliverance, 515 Deadwood Dick's Protegee. 522 Deadwood Dick’s Three. 529 Deadwood Dick’s Danger Ducks 584 Deadwood Dick’s Death Hunt, 589 Deadwood Dick Jr., in Texas. : 5644 Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wiid West Vidoeg. Other Novels by E: L. Wheeler. 26 Cleven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. EY, B82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 2 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York, 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, - 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix, 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle'Team. |. 69 Geld Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The a Detective, 80 Rosebud Roby or, Nugget Ned, the K GEER 8 elo hg Yale 8 Phetograp ar, Rosebuc ’a Reap ce. 92 Canada Chet; ie; Wid Anacondk inf Sitting Bull*s Garp. 6 Watch-Eye y or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City, Jack Hoyle the Young’Speculator. re Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective! - bs Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport, Bonanza Bill, Miner. “ia IM ares : Hors ob the King of Bootblacka, * Solid Sam, the Boy Rohd-Agett.\* Captain Boas Job. 1 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. 7 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, The Sierras Scamps, rank, the Buckskin Bravo, Z, the Bourtd-Boy Detective. | 18 Fritz to the Front}; or, The Vqurhognist Hunter. 26 Snoozer, the Boy Sharp; orj The Ar&b Detective? 286 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado. ay 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator. 244 Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret. 24% Sierra Sam’s Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 255 Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vistas, 258 Sierra Sam’s Sevens or, The Stolen Bride. 278 Jumbo Joe, the oy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs. 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. 281 Denver Doll's Victory. 255 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza. 291 Turk, the Koy Ferret. 296 Denver Doll’s Drift; or, The Road Queen. 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 825 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectivedipf Philadelphia, 880 Little Qu?ck-Shot; or, The Dead Face of Daggersville, 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner, 889 Kangaroo Kit’s Racket. 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood. 858 First-Class Fred, the Gent from Gopher. 868 ro Jim, the Gold-Gatherery or, The Lottery of i] pte ne ea pe Rm me ce i eke CTT laeloed SEs = a 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 Wat Harry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Siabsides, the Beggar-Boy Detective, 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives, 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher, 486 Sealekin Sam, the Sparkler. ht / ; bron'Hapa,” -* * bie 269 The Gold Shi | 2 BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, @? The Flying Yankee; or, The Ocean Outcast. 17 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccaneer; or, The Fugitive Yacht. 4 Diamond Dirks or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone. 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants, 75 The Boy Duellat; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wollf. 02 Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Smugzgier. it 16 z 1 The Sea-Devil ; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. The Hussar Captain; or, The Hermit of Hell Gate, 97 Little Grit; or, Bessie, the Stock-Tender’s Daughter. 204 Gold Plume; or, The Kid-Glove Sport, 216 Bison BI, the Prince of the Reina, 222 Grit, the Brayo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer. | 229 Orimsxon Kate; or, The Cowboy’s Triumph, 23TZ Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 245° Merle, the Middy i or, The Freelance Hetr. 250 The Midshipman Mutineer 3 or, Brandt, the Buccaneer. | 26% The*Floating Feather; or, Merle Monte’s Treasure Island. % or, Merle, the Condemned. |, 294 | 2x7 804 dx | 511 The Outlawed Mid |. B98. Seawall, phe Boy Sayegh 201 The Black Hilla Jezebel; or, Deadwood Dick’s Ward.” ef} 276~-\lerle Monte’s Cruise; or, The Chase of “The Gold H Ss p > Ms m ‘ |; 2R0 Mute Monte’ Fate. or, Pear), the Pirate’s Bride, AN e Sea Marauder; or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. ! ily Blhite-Ey dsj *the Boy Rover of the Rio Gtande. : The Dead Shot Dandy ; oF, Benito, the Boy Bugler. 508 kKeno' Wit ¢ or, Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. B14 ame Mysterious*Mayauder ; or, The-Boy Bugler’s Long * ‘Trafles - ~¢ BTT Bonodel, the yer Rover} or, The Flagless Schooner. B58 The Indhih Pilobs or, The Search for Pirate Island. 887 Warpath WHHL, the Boy Phantom. ’ Lty »402 Inodor, the Young Consplrator y o 407 The Boy Lnstrgenty or, The Cuban Vendetta. 412 The Wild, Vachtsmans or, The War-Cloua’s Cruise. r, The Fhtal Leagite,, No Double Numbers. 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. 55 Deadly-Eye, the Bunce Seout. 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trast, BY OLL COOMES. Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. The Dumb Spy. Antelo e Abe, the Boy Guide. Keen-Knife, the Prince of the Prairies. Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. Hawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ringer. Rollo, the Boy Ranger. Sure Khot Seth, the Boy Rifleman. Scar-Face Saul, the Silent Hunter. Silver Star, the Boy Knight. Eagle Kit, the Boy Demon. Little Texas, the Young Mustanger, 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit ‘Trapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain, 202 Proapect Pete; or, The Young Outlaw Hunters. 208 The Boy Hercules: or, The Prairie Tramps. 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dicks or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Diaguised Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Runge, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 272 Minkakin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. ~~ on ee ee SHRP RS Reser pow CE So Se Se he SS hes me ny "\\290 Little Foxtire, the Boy Spy. 800 The Sky Demon ; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger. SEe A Cetin Hogs Lack jer Pha Cormir. .| 824 Ralph Ready, the Hotel Boy Detective. 841 Tony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective, 858 The Reporter-Detective; or, Fred Flyer’s Blizzard, B67 Wide-Awake Joe; or, A Boy of the Times, 879 larry. the Leveler; or, The Bloods of the Boulevard. 408 Firefly Jack, the River-Rat Detective, 428 The Lost Finger’ or, The Entrapped Cashier. 428 Fred Fiyer, the Reporter Detective. 482 Invincible Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret. 456 Billy Brick, the Jolly Vagabond. 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive. 479 Detective Dodge; or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty. 488 Wild Dick Racket, 501 Boots, the Boy Fireman ; or, Too Sharp for the Sharper. BY JOSEPH E. BADGER, JR. 2 Yellowstone Jack ; or, The Trapper. 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaw’s Retreat, 65 Hurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard. 119 Mustang Sam ; or, The King of the Plains. 186 Night-Hawk Kit; or, The Daughter of the Ranch. 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. 151 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Reseue. 160 The Black Giant; or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy. 168 Deadly Dash; or, Fighting Fire with Fire. 184 The Boy Trailers; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path. 208 The Boy Parda; or, Dainty Lance Unmaske, 211 Crooked Cale, the Caliban of Celestial City. 810 The Barranca Wolfs or, The Beautiful Decoy. 819 The Black Rider; or, The Horse-Thieves’ League, 885 Old Double Fist; or, The Strange Guide. 855 The King of the Wooda: or Daniel Boone’s Laat Trail, 449 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective. ),444 Little Buckskin, tne Young Prairie Centanr. 457 Wingedfoot Fred; or, Old Polar Saul. 468 Tamarac Tom, the Big aoe Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic, 482 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Trojan, BY T. C. HARBAUGH, Nick o? the Night or, The Boy Spy of ’76. The Hidden Lodge}; or The Little Hunter. Nightingale Nat; or, Toe Forest Captains, Dandy i The Outlaws of the np Trait. Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. Midnight Jack ; or, The 4 Trapper. Old Frosty, the Guide; or, The White Queen. Klowa Charley the White Mustanger. Judge Lynch, dr.i or, The Boy Vigiante. Gol Tri r, the Sport; or, The Girl Avenger. Tornado Tom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core. Ned Temple, the Border Boy, Arkansaw 3. or, The Quoen of Fate’s Revenge. Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 5 Captain Bullet; or, Little Topknot’s Crusade, 281 Plucky Phil; or, Rosa, the Ret Jezebel. 241 Bill Bravo; or, The Rougha of the Rockies, 255 Captain Apoll«, the King-Pin of Bowie. 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 Eelipae, Tromp Card of Arizona, 826 The Ten Parda; or, The Terror of Take-Notice. 886 Big Benson; or, The Queen of the Lasso. 845 Pitilesas Matt; or, Red Thunderbolt’s Secret. 856 Cool Sam und Par’; o- The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlass; or, | he Brecancer’s Girl Fee, 896 Rowgh Rob} or, The !'win Champions of Blue Blass, ack} or, SEEaAE SSorzaees —] Qexcnces 411 The Silken Lasso; or, The Rove of Ranch Robin. 418 Felix Fox, the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump, the Border Rattler. 6 Phil Flash, the New York Fox. ryt The City Vampires; or, Ked Rolfe’s Pigeon. 461 @ne Against Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bax, A70 The Boy Shadow ; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. 477 The Excelsior Sport; or, The Washington Spotter. 499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Brended Ben, the Night Ferret. 512 Dodger Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective. 521 Dodger Dick's Best S 528 Fox and Falcon, the Bowery Shadows. 588 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret, 548 Dodger Dick’s Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives, LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 546 Captain Cactua, the Chaparral Cock. By Lieut. A. K. Sims, 547 Sandy Andy; or, A Good Men Down, \By P. S. Warne. 548 Mart, the Night Express Detective. By J. C, Cowdrick. 549 Deadwood Dick on His Mettle. By E, L. Wheeler. 550 pavers Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. By Col. Prentiss ngranam. 551 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow. By Jo Pierce. 552 Ariel, the Athlete. By David Druid. 558 Dodeer Dick’s Deaperate Case. By T. C. Harbaugh. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham, By E. L. Wheeler, 555 The Creole Corsair. _ By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. i 556 Lariat Lil; or, The Cast fora Life, By ne 8. Warne. 557 Broadway Billy’s Death Racket. By J. C. Cowdrisk, 55S The Sure-Shot Pards. By Arthur C. Grisson. ‘ 559 Harlem Jack, the Office Boy Detective. By Jo Pierce. 560 Pawnee Bill, the Prairie Shadower, By Col, P. Ingrabam, 561 Deadwood Dick in Boston, By Edward L. Wheeler. 562 Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper. By Ol] Coomes, 568 Dodger Dick, the Boy Vidocq. By T. C. Har augh, Ready May 8. 564 Powder Phil, the Boy Miner, By John W. Osbon. Ready May 15. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, Ready May 22. 566 The Secret Service Boy Detective, By Charles Morris, Ready May 29. 567 Deadwood Diek, Jr., In Philadciphia. By Edward L, Wheeler. Ready June 5, A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newadealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of alx cents each, BEADLE AND ADAMA, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York,