Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 437) (1885 12 08)
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FOURTH EDITION, a bilfalaallallallalsli) \ \ : An N : i / , | Ye SS CON ANN YQ wt RENN \) MR NM SS WO, WOM, ANY NS SO AY \ m™ \ ~. OB Go His, t Mt SS , recs yes rT ; : — (tL tn iss Sas fal hy — — EE TEEPEED S y | Ke fat i NS ian = b 1 pei PTR TT VEY ' LUntered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. Copyright, 1885, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, December 8, 1885. =" $2.50 PUBLISUED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS Price ; Vol. X VIL a Year. > ta 7 7 a a 5 Cc ts No. 437. ° No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. ents. ‘it ll 7 a eu N Ni i. on, ==... The Hawks of the Hook. BY COL. PRENTISS INGRAHAM, "AUTHOR OF “DUNCAN DARE,” “a QaABIN BOY’S LUCK,” ETC., ETC. CHAPTER I. THE MIDNIGHT RAIDERS. IT was a dark, blustering night at sea, and yet a small armed schooner was standing danger- ously near to the Long Island coast, for a skill- ful commander is always anxious to avoid a lee shore. Not a light was visible on the schooner, her topmasts were lowered, her mainsail and fore- A = 3 : ; 1 } "Be SI lH = staysail reefed, and one seeing her would have SSS a, = Poe? | thought that she sought to avoid observation. “NOW, DUNCAN DARE, DEAD TO THE DECK YOU GO, AND I HAVE MY REVENGE,” _ Now and then, from her decks, the glimmer of SHOUTED CARL, THE CORSAIR, TO THE MIDDY.”
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es ces . r : Pe o % ™ a | : f - ' 4 light in some farm-house.was visible, and soon . a number of fights came in view, a mile or nore \ ‘back,from the shore, denoting a small settle- ment. ~ era oe Upon the schooner’s deck stood her crew, for- yard and in the waist, and half a hundred men all told. s On the quarter-deck were two officers, and a /{ rough-looking man at the wheel. “You are sure about the inlet, pilot?’ said _. one of the officers*speaking in the-terse, decided ’ “voice of one who was accustomed to command. ‘*f know the coast, cap’n, or T wouldn’t have offered to run you in,” was the blunt response . of the may at the wheel. ‘“ All right, only it seemed to me when that accursed boy was our pilot, that he said the inlet was below the village, answered the officer, ‘* So it is; sir; it is yonder where you see that dark clump 0’ trees, and we ean go in splendid | before this breeze, but it will be a leetle hard to »* tack out.” ee ‘* Well, we'll run in now, and look after run- ning out when the time comes. ‘“*f know I take big chances in to-night’s . work, but the necessities.are. great, and I'am de- \ termined upon success,” and the officer who had before spoken turned ‘and addressed his com- panion in uniform, who replied: _“Tf you. find the treasure, Captain Carl, it ' will be worth all the risks,” “Well, I think I tan find it without a doubt, ‘and Pll give-you all the facts, so that you, can | See for yourself; come into the cebis with me.” _. He led the way to the cabin, and as the light - fell upon him it revealed a man\whose appear+ ance was striking. \ i ‘ ! Not only was he |well-formed,\ commanding “appearancé and possessed of a ¢ertain court- | ly bearing that was |very winning, but his face | was handsome, if not studied tod closely, for _ then were revealed | faults*ofcharacter,\ and | there seeméd upon his féatures the stamp of ' crime. LE i His companion was younger, good-looking, reckless-faced, and had the air of one whose ' life was given to-dissipation. —~ eae Both were im sea uniforms and»were armed with a fighting cutlass and pistol, == = “Here, Lennox, is my map, or’rather, part of it; the other half belonged to*that old ‘pirate Finlay, who, when wrecked upon ‘this coast, turned schoolmaster and deagon; but I am con- fident did so to keep constantly on the hunt for the treasure which he knew the old buccaneer ' chief to have buried here somewhere, “ He had the map, and [ have the directions, | and he was trying to find it by the tracing on | the map, while I am trying to find it by the di- ' rections without the lines. we x: got my directions from a dying pirate, and he told me where old Finlay Va ocated, and, ' but that death overtook him, he would have gone ' to him and claimed a share for the paper he | possessed, ‘+ Now, ae remember when I landed before, the night that boy swam out to us/and acted as our pilot?” t “Yes, Captain Carl, I shall never forget that might of storm, and how that boy ‘saved the | vessel from wreck, and our lives.’ |. “Wes, and stole my lady-love from me after- ward, and nearly lost me my vessel, “YT wish Thad killed him when I him in ' my power; but his time will come, Lennox, for | I never forgive a foe. . *ht I speak of ET landed and went ** But the un ' to the schoolhouse, where the old man taught and lived. _ **T gained his rooms ever the school-house un- geen, and beholding in him one who had wrong- ‘ed me in the past when I was a youth, I shot him dead without thought, and thus lost his map, for an alarm was given andI hastened out- doors, to find the storm eoming up so savagely ' that I had to return to the schooner, “Thus I lost his map, if I did get my re- venge; but had I captured him I would have | forced him to give it up. ‘From what I learned from another source, I was convinced that Finlay had a confidant, in an old miser, one Barney Bolls, dwelling some distance away, so I sent down a party to cap- ture him. ; ; “They surprised him at his desk, and, as he raised a pistol, the officer in charge shot him . eg and thus I could learn nothing from him; ut { feel assured that it was in his old house somewhere that. the treasure was hidden, and it is there lam going to-night.” : : __ * How long ago was the treasure hidden, Cap- | tain Carl?” = “Some fifteen years ago.” \ ‘“ By-whom?* La ATAM I av A 0% f£0clMw AMT OT re a gs were ‘| atoth MLABHOD ae SEE DR Seratee AS aria Oem The fpitate Chief ‘known as Rafael the Rover.” ‘*T have heard of him,” ‘* Ah, yes, and he was’a dashing fellow from all accounts. ‘*Tt seems he was wrecked. here, in a vessel, on which he was going to New York after hav- ing sixes up his piratical life. ‘‘Tfe had his treasure on board, and several of his men were with him, and it was saved, though no oné knew that the chests held aught that was valuable. ‘*The men who aided Rafael to bury the treas- ure, were afterward killed by him, it is said, all but one, and he is the one whe drew the map of the locality and wrote the directions. ‘Finlay got the map from him in some way, but he gave me the directions when he died on board the vessel I commanded when I was in the navy.” ‘*Ts the treasure very valuable?” “Tt is said to be worth half a million, Len- nox. , The lieutenant gave a pleased whistle, and the captain continued: ‘Now, Lennox, the residence of Duncan Dare, that boy who outwitted me so, is not far from here, and I believe he is at home again, so I in- tend to raid his place, carry him off and woe be unto him.” ‘He saved us. once, Captain Carl, and I think yen lets forgive him for what he afterward i and I have “No, Lennox, I never forgive boy, so mark sworn to be avenged upon that my words that I keep my oath. ‘But come, for we are now running before the wind, I notice, and the pilot is heading for the inlet,” and the two officers ascended to the deck, j \CHAPTER II. FOILED RY A BOY. Into ‘the inlet the schooner ran, under the skillful guidance of the pilotyand dropped an- chor close inshore. Two jboat-loads of men, armed fully, then went ashore, leaving the vessel with but few on . y rd, The pilot, who knew the land as well as the sea-coast, then guided the armed band into the interior, avoiding the highways ,andfarm-house and goingiacross fields'‘and through forests. After a march of a couple of miles the party came in sight of a rambling structure sit. ated back from the road, and amorg a clump of elms, * LD Dark and desclate looked the old homestead. as dark as the deeds which rumor had it had been committed there in the three-score years it had stood. f : It had been the home of an old miser, Barney Bolls, whom/all said was very’richand hoarded his money for love of its possession rather than en joyment 1m its use, his house the old miser had met with his death, sometime before; and yet some of <his gold hed been found by those who searched the old rookery in the hope of finding buried treas- ure. To this old = i now the band of midnight raiders wended their way, for their leader be- lieved that he had at last discovered where a ureasure buried long years before had been hid- brought.along for use, if needed, and they halt- ed among the elms and silently regarded the house, which the villagers not far away said was haunted, ‘ ‘The front. door was open, and swung to and fro with a mournful, creaking sound, and that alone, with the rustling of the trees in the wind, broke the stillness, ‘Men, we will enter the old building, for it certainly is deserted by all, excepting ghosts,” said the man who had been called by his com- rade Captain Carl. , The men shuddered, and moved uneasily, at the mention of ghosts being the Occupants-of the old mansion, and the leader, seeing it, regretted the remark, and hastily said: _ ‘The only spirits we will find’ here, lads, are Shas pact rare wines, with other piratical ooty. we must give the place a thorough search.” with cautious tr turb the echoes of the deserted halls: out from the windows, but these uickly hidden beneath h:ayy folds of e seamen hung ever them. ~ BF e Sea Raider. ~~ ‘United States navy. en. | Dark lanterns, picks, axes’ and saws had been), “of it, I can tell you. ° Bat come, for we have no time to lose, as_ In single file t “ey entered the old mansion, , as though not even 40 dis-' prisoners,” A moment of silence followed, and thon lights” Then all seemed dark and drear, and no one poe would have dreamed that the mansion eld a large force of men. Suddenly the silence was broken by @ loud voice in stern command, and then the sound was lost in the rattle of firearms, clashing of, steel and shouts of combatants. ! Out of the doors and windows poured the raid- ers, and close after them came-a large force of men who had been ambushed in the house to re- ceive them. ; Torn from their hangings, the impromptu cur- tains over the windows to shut out every ray of light, caused the old rookery to become brilliant ly illuminated, andiwithin were seen struggling men, men fighting to the death, as well as with- ut. It was a thrilling, a desperate scene, and driv- en from the house, those within joined the struggling mass without. “We are beaten! back to your vessel, lads!” shouted the stern voice of the leader, and the re- treat through the forest was ‘begun. ; But ere many steps had been made a lull in the combat brought to their ears the sound of fierce fighting over in the inlet. | ‘‘The schooner has been attacked!” shouted one of the raiders, and instantly, believing all lost, beaten at every point, shot down upon all sides, the Raiders began to ery for quarter. Loud rung their cries for mercy, and the com- bat was at an end. The wind howled mournfully through the trees, the wounded groaned“in agony, the pris- oners stood in grim silence, and back over their retreat were strewn the bodies of those slain. Impressed by the scene in spite of himself, the leader of the victors issued his orders in low tones, and the lanterns glimmered here and there like fireflies, making a weird picture. _ Suddenly,forms were seenrapidly advancin through the forest, the lanterns that they carrie causing their shadows todance about like huge giants dogging their footsteps. “ Ha! it’s Master Duncan Dare! ; ‘A glorious welcome, Master Duncan!” cried the leader, and he'sprung to greet the new- comers. “They were a party of seamen, and the leader was in the uniform of a midshipman in the He was a mere boy, but tall for his age eee Se ecered, handsome, earnest-faced and manly. ' He wore a cutlass dangling from his belt, and pistols, and the blade of the former was stained red and I came over to aid you, if you needed it,” said the youth, grasping the hand of the leader of the attacking party, who had so cleverly am- bushed the Raiders in the old house. ‘“Your plan was well carried out, Master Duncan, and we caught them like foxes in a trap, and those who are not dead are prisoners; but you have the schooner?” _ “Yes, I came down outside in a coaster, as I wrote you I would do, with a crew from a brig- of-war, and taking the helm myself, I ran into the inlet and laid the schooner aboard, captur- ing her after a short, sharp fight; but have you her captain a prisoner?” ‘‘ He's either a prisoner or dead, and I guess he fell at the old house, for he made himself retty fierce there in the fight, and if his men had obeyed him, we would have had a hard time “But, Lordy! they took us for ghosts when we first opened on them, and it seemed to take the fight right-out of them at first.” } “Well, constable, I hope you have Captain Carl a prisoner, for hanging should be his fate, not the death of a brave man at the, point of a sword or bybullet. . nx wroll alt “¢ But Jet ns look after the wounded as quigkly as possible,” and the youth at’once sought ‘to re- lieve human suffering,-of foes as well as friends, and. thus the hours pases away, the. constable detailing a ‘party to ts the'dead. © ~~ When” dawh’ ¢ame ‘the wounded *had béen taken on board the schooner, the’dead had been buried in one large common grave, and the pris- oners stood sullenly on the-shore of the inles under a strong guard, while:scores of villagers | and country people had gathered around; and were gazing With as much admiration upon the Wane h ro midshipman as upon the pirates. "Well, constable, the chie said Duncan Dare, walking... faces. the line and glancing into the pirates, FS ARGS Tet ta | ay GE BG BALIICL SY ‘shen he must. be atnong the wounded on the wered Constable Kane, api art sb shooner,” answ: onst SR, for I just,came from on board,” “Ah, Constable Kane, we have the schooner, - Along fs not among the < °
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lex . en Pe He’s sure to be among the dead then, Master Duncan.” ; “T hope so, sincerely; but do any cf you re, member having seen your captain fail?” noxcd the midshipman, turning to the pirates. “Yes, sir, he was killed, and as. we wero marching along I saw two men robbing his body, and then they pitched him into thé big grave with. the others,” said a man who was & pirate coxswain, “ All right, V’ll not look further for him, ‘* Now, constable, if you will get your prison- ers on board the schooner, I will run over home to Dare farm and see my mother.” ‘“Go, Master Duncan, and stay as long as you please, and it will be a glad day for her to have you come back a hero, and wearing a middy’s mniform, when you went away from home a short while since charged with murder. “Pll see that all goes well until you get back, and don’t you hurry, either,” and the good- hearted constable grasped the lad’s hand warm- ly as he turned away, after which he called out to the assembled crowd of, country people gath- ered around: “‘Come, folks, you all wronged the boy a while since, though I admit things looked black against him; but now give him three rousing cheers, for he deserves ’em!”" | With a will the cheers were given, and as tho young midshipman turned and acknowl ed it by raising his hat, the crowd burst forth again and again, while a carriage dashed up, and in it was a fine-looking old gentleman and a beauti- ful little girl of twelve. Into this canriage the young hero sprung; and away it dashed through the forest road skirting the inlet, the driver sending the spirited horses along at a rapid pace, CHAPTER IT. DUNCAN DARE, THE MIDDY, THE youth, whose act had thwarted the Raiders in their search for hidden treasure, and whose expedition had turned out so disastrously for them, was only a boy in ‘yetirs, but he ‘had the courage and nerve of a man, and was con- sidered the most skillful pilot on the Long Island coast, where the scene of this story is laid. From his earliest childhood he had been wont to swim in the surf, and rum his ight’ skiff in and out of the inlet, going through the breakers with a pluck that won the admiration of the old Whalers and other seamen along the coast. He had often made voyages .to.sea with his father, the commander of a vessel that was wont to make long cruises in’ foreign seas, and, being an only child, he was, the idol of his parents... In_ those, early days education: was by no means as general as it is now, and a yillage school, a mile and a half from the youth’s home, ‘was attended by pupils a league and ‘more dis- tant.. , Rah eet Rs Tn this humble school-house ‘the youth had learned rapidly, and stood at the’ head’ of his class, while the other pupils were’wout to say that be was the favorite of Silas Finn, the dom- inie, as the master’ was called. . The schoolmaster was a queer person, silent, austere in manner, cruel toward delinquents, and had buf one intimate friexd, Miser Bolls, or Barney Bolls, an old man who dwelt half a mile away in a rickety and ancient farm-house, large | enough for a ibn of twenty. These two worthies ‘were often together by day, but after nightfall it was said Silas Finn never left the school-house, for he dwelt over it, doing his own cooking and housework, and ,cer- tainly dwelling in comfort as far as his rooms went. The village was a mile away, and in it the gossips were wont to discuss over and over again the strange maa; but, he was known to be a man of knowledge, was a good teacher and ruled the pupils with a rod of iron, so that there were no complaints coming in of bad behavior at school, co ae) The school-housé had once been used as an old church, and about it, ypon every side’ was a graveyard, where slept the dead of’ a centu ast, and the superstitious country folk, and legion. wondered how, it was that Silas Fin dared’ to, liye in the ‘anciént , ch they regarded; as haunted by _A. rich farming. try, } “éraly Sotktoe* a ifiaber qdaint ead dating its The Sea Raider. rise back two hundred years, an inlet from the sea, dangerous to enter for vessels of over. half a dozen feet draft, anda low, wild, yet pictur- esque coast, made up the surroundings of the | home of Duncan Dare: : Upon a hill, back from the'’sea some distance, and surrounded by a thousand acres of ' land, | was a grand old mansion, the home of Squire Hampton, a man whose ancestry and wealth made him a power in the land, There he dwelt, in luxury, with his only child, Jessie, surrounded by a large number of ser- vants, with hounds for the chase, @ yacht on the north, or Sound shore, and’ enjoying life as a fine old country gentleman, as he was. It was the carriage of Squire Hampton, who had drawn up in the roadway, and into which Duncan Dare had ‘sprung, when leaving Con- stable Kane to look after the pirate prisoners, while he went to his home to see his mother, “Come, Duncan, sa in, and we'll give you a lift on your way, for Tieoes you are turning your steps homeward to see your mother,” call- ed out the squire as he called his coachman to a halt, and then said: “To Dare farm, David.” “Yes, Squire Hampton, I am going to see mother, but ny for a short time, as I must get up to New York with the prisoners; but I am so glad to sea you and you too, Jessie,” and Dunean turned to the pretty little child-woman, who answered in her sweet way: “And I to see you again, Master Duncan.” ‘* Master Duncan! why how formal, you are,” the boy said, in an injured tone. “But you are a midshipman now,” she said, softly. “Tf I was an admiral, Jessie, 1 would wish to be plain Duncan Dare to you,” “Well said, my boy; but when you left home some, months ago, you were Jessie’s school- mate, and returning as you do, a young naval officer, and more still as the leader of a sticcess- dition against’ the pirates, we are both ful e3 awed by your fame, and I felt too like saying Midshipman Dare.” , “No, squire, I have only changed my school- hoy suit for a uniform, not my nature, sir; but Constable Kane told you then of my letter. to him, and my plot to have him aid me in captur- ing the pirates?” « ‘Oh, yes, and he got picked:men, to surprise the outlaws, and all turned out well with, his Party while you captured the schooner with a coaster, asl saw, for we drove along near where the two vessels are anchored, “Tt will prove a great day for you, Duncan, and IJ predict that, you will wear a. captain’s straps before you are half a dozen years older, for, already you are fit to command ,a vessel; but here we are at, the gates of Dare farm, so we will leave you; but come back to the island as soon, as 7 can, my boy, and remember that ou shall always have a warm welcome. at ampton Hall,” ‘**T thank you, squire; but will certainly come ther and I?” ’ ** No, my son, after all that your good mother and you have suffered, since you parted, t Youd not break in upon your meeting for a fortune. “Go in at once, for I know she anxiously awaits you, and we may come aboard to wish “ou success before you sail, which I suppose will Dy noon.” ‘Yes, sir, for the tide will be in then and give me plenty of water in the inlet for the schooner to runout,” and Duncan Dare bade the squire and Jessie a hasty farewell, and ran toward the | house. It was a handsome house, with an air of com- fort about, it, and the acres Surrounding it were certainly cultivated most highly, As he ascended the piazza a lady came .out, | almost tottering toward him,’ as though her } limbs were sinking beneath her weight, She was a woman of surpassing beauty, per- | haps thirty-five years of age. yet scarcely look- ing as old by half a dozen years, er form was, slight, very graceful and. well- rounded, and her face, mengh pale and haggard just then, was One to win,admiration and com- mand. respect. “Duncan, my noble boy, God bless you!” she cried, as she threw her arms about her son and ¢lasped him conyulsively to.her. | ' Mother, your runaway boy. bas come home again, so don’t look so sad and, pale, forysee, I Wear a midshipman’s. uniform, and, am. oneof Unelé Sam's officers now, and you mast con- gratulate me,” "aa ke coe “ Such’ was ‘thé meeting of t set v0; mother 4 An sot and the Strang sre of some time berore shall be told id the hext chapter. ou and Jessie and breakfast with mo- CHAPTER TV. THE MIDDY’S STORY. For a long time the mother and her son were together in the parlor, seemingly too happy to speak, and keeping silent from very joy. re last the woman controlied her emotion and said: ** Come, Duncan, ’Liza and Dan are awaiting to Bye you a welcome, as are the farm-people, anc set? too, breakfast awaits, and you look tired.’ “Yes, and hungry, too, mother, for one of *Liza’s good breakfasts, and when it is over we can have a long talk together, for I will not sail until afternoon.” ‘* And you must leave me so soon, Duncan?” “Yes, mother, for T have my duties to per- form, as you know Iam midshipman command- ing, as they say on board ship,” and the mother and son walked out into. the cosey breakfast- room where Dan and ‘Liza, negro servants, gave him a warm welcomé, and then several farm hands crowded to.the door to shake his hand. “Oh, what a breakfast for a hungry boy!” cried Duncan, with delight, as his eyes feasted upon the broiled chicken, coffee and cream, hot biscuit, griddle-cakes and scrambled eggs. Mrs. Dare was delighted to see the youth eat as he did, while "Liza kept supplying him with hot biscuit, eggs and griddle-cakes from the kitchen, until he begged off with the remark: “This breakfast will last me until I get back, Liza.” ‘**But you will be here to dinner, my son,” anxiously said the mother. “Tm a boy, mother, and consequently ever ready to eat, so [ll remain; but can yon not send Dan over to ask Squire Hampton and Jessie to come, and then all go on bosrd the schooner with me, and run out ‘of the inlet, re- turniag in my surf skiff, for 1 wish you to see the pirate craft?” “Yes, I'll send Dan at once, Duncan,” said Mrs, Dare, and the negro soon after rode away ‘upon his errand to Judge Hampton, while the mother led her son to the'seclusion of her own room. ‘“Oh, mother, what have I not, passed through since I left my dear old home,” said the boy, as he threw himself down upon a sofa by his mo- ther’s side, “T know that you must have passed Farough a great deal, my son, and’ you must tell me all, and at once.” ‘ “T hardly know where to begin’ mother; but you remember the terrible flogging that Silas Finn gave me, avd how, when I Ceme honae from school, you dressed the cuts his cruel stick made?” Can I forget it ever, Duncan?” “ Mother, if I need a reminder, the scars will remain to recall that flogging, and all because I told him he should not marry you, ‘** But that is over now, theugh, ‘when ‘you told. me you would marry him, I left home, as you know. **T_ slipped out of my room in the night, with my little hoarded-up purse of gold, anda change of clothing and I went to the sea-shire, where T had seen a schooner anchored in the afternoon, “She was among the shoals, and, as a storm was coming up, you remember I sent Nan to the village to tell the people; but he was/afraid to go, and I found him-erouching out in the woods near the house, when,I went out. y “T would not take a boat, for I did not wish you to know bow 1 went, but, swam out to the schooner, and I found her-to be a pirate craft.” **Oh, Duncan!” y “Yes, mother, and her captain had come ‘to our coast to land a foree to hunt up a buried treasure, the booty of a pirate known as Rafael the Royer, and, which ke had hidden here years ago; but why do you start and tremble, mo- ther?” “Your story is a strange one, my son; but — nt‘nue, please.” er I a Bw to,pilot_ the schooner into the inlet, when I knew what she was, and the captain, a very. handsome, but a very bad man, told his lieutenant to run his sword into my heart, if I did not ohey within. a given time, *T believe he would have killed me, when out of the cabin ¢ame a beautiful young lady, as beautiful as you are, mother, ae! she told them bey, were destroying their lives and the vessel, by killing me, for the storm was upon us. “ They seemed to realize this, so me, and I took the hélm and ran the schooner out to , sea by the Back Bone Channel, although. it was the worst storni T eyer saw. “The pirate chief was so’ ‘pleased ‘that he .made me cabin boy, and, yet, strange to say ‘allowéd me nlso to act hs pilot and officer.” :
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‘* Who was the lady, my son?” ‘* Mother, there comes the strange part of my story, for she was the daughter of a wealthy Maryland P peat living on Chesapeake Bay, and she had saved the vessel which Captain Carl the pirate, had commanded, when he was an officer in the navy. ‘* She is one of the best sailors I ever saw, and had risked her life to pilot his vessel into the harbor near her home, for ghe told me that she and her twin brother had been reared to sail boats, ride. drive and shoot, as though they had both been boys, ‘* Well, she fell in love with the officer, and he with her: but she soon after found him out to be a gambler and a wicked man. ‘*He was dismissed from the navy, and then turned pirate, while she believed him to be liv- ing an. honest life. ‘Loving him as she did, when he came and begged her to fly with him, she consented, for her father wished her tomarry a man more than double her age. “The man had been a college chum of her father, and was a fine fellow, yet the lady did not love him, and so Miss Kate Kenyon, for such was her name, fled one night with her _ lover, Captain Carl, just before she was to have married the South Carolina planter, Merton Regnier. *“As soon as she went on board, Miss Kenyon discovered the name of the craft, the Spittire, , and knew she had been deceived, and that her lover was none other than Captain Carl of the , West Indian corsair vessel Spitfire. “‘Tt was a fearful discovery to make, as you | can imagine, and her love for the man, Carl Casandra, turned to hate, and in vain he beg- ged her to become his wife, for she was firm, and he kept her a prisoner on the vessel, striv- ing to force her to marry him. / ‘**Sbhe was thus a captive when I boarded the schooner, and though I could have readily made | my escape, I would not do so until I could aid \ her to get away, for she told me her sad story. , ‘At last the opportunity offered, and we es- caped together, made our way to Castle Ken- yon, the name of her pleuiation home, told her father all, and I went to Baltimore and told the captain of a brig-of-war how the schooner could be taken. : “She ran out of her hiding-place ahead of us, and thus escaped, but I was made a mid- shipman, and knowing the places of the pirate : was allowed to attempt his capture, being given a number of brave tars to aid me. » “So I wrote to Constable Kane, told him my yan, and the result you know, mother; } but Iam sorry that Captain Carl was not } gh alive, that he might be hanged, if only for his cruel treatment of Miss Kenyon.” ‘* My noble boy, no man could have rendered ’ better service than you have done, and though it pains me to give you up, I will not be sel- fish and keep you out of a service you are so ably fitted to adorn, so return to your duties | when you deem that you must. ‘* But, Duncan, 1 too have a story to tell, and it is one that will give you deep pain, ‘* Still it must be told, bitter as the telling must be,” and the mother seemed deeply moved by memories that crowded upon her, as though she recalled some terrible nightmare through which she had passed. CHAPTER V. A STRANGE NARRATIVE. _ Myson,” began Mrs. Dare, in a low, earnest | tone: ' “There have strange things happened of late in this neighborhood, and it but shows how care- ful one should be before he accuses another of ‘ guilt, unless the proof is beyond all doubt. “T wish to now tell you, my son, what I hitherto have held from you, that you may un- derstand just how I was placed in regard to. Silas Finn, the schoo r. ; “To begin aright I must go back to my first meeting with your father. “You know that I, as well as other young i of my day along this coast, were said to snow all about sailing, swimming and manag- ing a life skiff in the surf, so that I was as com- nt as a man to go to the aid of those in dis- tress, ‘*T one night went out to the rescue of a ves- sel that had struck upon the shoals in a fearful storm, and one whom I then saved was your father. ** He was a superb-looking man, and said that he was a passenger on the vessel, going to New ork, ** At the time of his réscue he had one boat nee th ne 4° * z y i wi ’ aider. The filled with what appeared to be boxes containing something that was very heavy. “This boat was sunk in the inlet at a certain spot, and, as your father said its cargo was of no value, and asked me not to speak of it to any one, I never did so. ‘Well, your father was brought here to my house, and he was sadly in need of tender care, so that I devoted myself to him, “That I fell in love with him you know, and he asked me to be his wife. ‘Excepting his own word, we knew nothing of him; but he seemed to be rich, and was cer- tainly a gentleman, so no objection was raised to my marrying him by those most deeply inter- ested in me. ‘*There were some things about your father that I could not understand, and he was a mys- tery to me; but he loved me devotedly, was ever most kind, and believing that he had suffered in the past in some way, I never referred to his life elsewhere. **'You know that he purchased a vessel and made voyages to other lands, and on one of these was lost; but youdo not know that one other, Silas Finn, who was wrecked upon this coast, as was your father, came to me with a strange and terrible story regarding him, ‘He said that your father was dead, yes, had gone down in his ship in a storm; but he told me that he had sailed with Captain Dare years before, when he was a pirate |’ ‘A pirate ?” gasped the boy, turning deadly e ‘**Yes, Duncan, so said Silas Finn, and strange to say he seemed to have proof of his asser- tions.” ‘*T can never believe it, mother.” “Nor did {, at first, and a lingering doubt et rests in my mind; but Silas Finn told me rankly that he had been taken prisoner by your father, when he commanded a pirate craft, and was known as Rafael the Rover.” ‘* Rafael the Rover?” said the boy in a hoarse whisper. ac es,” “Go on, mother, with the story of Silas Finn, for I am listening most attentively.” ‘* He told me that your father was engaged to a lady in the South, but had been discarded by her, for some of his wild acts, and had taken to Pitney. , “Having amassed a fortune by piracy, he had given up his vessel, and, with his booty of gold, silver plate and costly articles, had taken caves e in a vessel bound to New York, from he West Indies, and intended to there live like a prince on his ill-gotten gains. ‘It was on this voyage that his vessel was blown off her course by the storm and wrecked, and the boat which I towed ashore, and which was laden, as I told you, with heavy boxes, con- tained his treasure. “*This boat, as you know, was sunk in the in- let, and, strange to say, Duncan, though I went to the spot afterward, and the water at low He was but a few feet deep, I could not find “T then remembered that your father was wont to leave the farm-house often at night, and be gone for hours, “Silas Finn said that he was at such times en- gaged in raising the treasure from the boat and urying it, and certain it is that it was taken from the place where it sunk in the inlet. ‘‘ A miniature likeness of Rafael the Rover, Silas Finn had, and it was the image of your fa-| the squire and his pretty daughter, who just ther, while other proofs he showed me, until I felt convinced that the man spoke the truth especially when he told me he had remain here to search for the treasure which your fa- ther had concealed. ‘Having made known to_me this horrible story, Silas Finn asked me to become his wife. ‘“*T scorned him, but he told me plainly that he loved me, would make me a good husband and all would be well, if I married him; but if I refused he would make known that I had been the wife of Rafael the Rover, and that you were the son of a pirate.” _ “ The villain!” hissed the boy, ** Alarmed at such a threat I consented, and then you were told by him that he was to be your stepfather, and you resented it, and unfor- tunately threatened him. “His flogging you followed, then your flight, and the same night he was found dead in his room, a bullet in his brain. 4 “Your disappearance led all to believe you ty, and Constable Nat Kane, following the of his duty, went in search of you. “The night you left there was a fearful storm, but, pelieving o0 in your bed, I went through the forest to the old school-house, to ae beg Silas Finn to spare me, and if he refused, to tell him to do his worst. pa! ‘““To my horror J found him dead, and beheld — Song sitting in his chair, a wound in his fore-— ead, i ‘In dismay, I fled back home, and reached it in safety, though I had been seen. ‘The connection that existed between Silas Finn and Barney Bolls, the miser, I can only understand in that the former had to have aid in his search for the treasure, and so let the “a old miser into the secret in part. yi} “When, therefore, you were away, accused rk of the murder of Silas Finn, and it was known i that Barney Bolls was our foe, it was but nat- ural, when the latter was also found dead, that i! the eyes of all turned upon me. pM) ‘*Thad gone to the office, hoping for a letter from you, and one had come, but the postmas- ee ter had given it to Barney Bolls, who said he if would bring it to me; but he meant to discover : your place of hiding, as he believed, and thus : have you brought back. “He refused to give me the letter, and I horse- whipped him until he howled with pain and H threw the letter down, calling to some one to kK seize it. ‘¢ But I almost crushed the hand of the man ; that attempted to do so, by driving my heel upon it, and seizing the letter, I threw it into ‘ the fire unread.” ; “ My brave, my noble mother!” said Duncan. “That night Barney Bolls was found dead, ; shot through the brain, in his old rookery, and 4 as I had gone to Squire Hampton’s to consult } him, as Barney Bolls had had me arrested, and I f,* had returned at night on horseback by the miser’s 1 house, I was accused of being his murderess.” }" ca y poor mother, how bitterly you have suf- fered!” “My son, Heaven only knows what I have suffered, for it was then said, as I had been seen aie out on the night of Silas Finn’s murder, that I, not you, had slain him, and I was quickly incar- cerated in jail. ‘Then came your letter to Constable Kane, explaining your departure to him, and the squire at once had me released on bail; and now you come home in honor as a hero, and explain away as the acts of the pirates the murder of both Silas Finn and Barney Bolls, and all is well once more.” ‘“No, no, mother, all is not well when they pe oPiggmaiag you suffer so under false accusa- ons! ‘ ‘But you must not mind the wicked accusers, Le rahe turn your back upon all who have persecut- A. you. “They will do so no more now, mother, and one of these days we will move far from here and live most happily. ‘‘ What you tell me of my father pains me more than I can express; but still I doubt, and I will do all in my power to solve the mys- 1 ie | ‘* But whether he was a pirate or honest man Rcd he was a good husband to you and a loving father to me, and for what he was I respect his Fig memory; but the mystery must yet be solvedin some way. : I *“Ah! here comes Dan back again, and th ve carriage of the squire is following him,so we can have a happy dinner together, and then you _ ¥ can all go on Shand the schoonerandaccompany me well out to sea.” 6" And Duncan Dare arose and went out to meet r i ~ ’ y then drove up to the door, ty CHAPTER VI. we THE FUGITIVE PIRATE. AmonG the sand dunes, cast up by the waves and winds, upon the Long Island shore, and resembling in the distance a range of moun- tains, a man was crouching, as though to hide : . r from human eyes. ’ a He was in a bowl] near the summit of a sand peering landward, through the grassy fringe that grew upon the edge of the tte pit. i li The tracks he had left, in seeking his covert, had been obliterated by the wind that was blowing at a twenty-mile-an-hour andhe seemed certainly most secure from PCy He A mile or more distant, upon the ee eee inlet that put in from the ocean, a lar, i was gathered, and a cable’s length were anchored dune, and he was mo about, and at the peaks were floating the United States flag. as phates On the waters of the inlet were a dozen boats, — e Eagan af) of yr a+
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“elown to the beach The Sea Raider. es some of them filled with people, and they were row.ng around the two vessels, as though ex- aamining them with curious eyes. Near the further shore of the inlet, in a small cove, om the banks of. which stood a copse of trees, were several small pleasure-boats, for sail and oar, ai anchor, and beyond, across a lawn- like meatiow, was a farm-house, where comfort and contentment seemed to dwell. From this scene the eyes of the man in the sand dune turned upon a village in the distance, and a range of hills beyond, while farm-houses and cultivated lands were visible in every direc- tion. The one whose gaze thus rested upon the pret- ‘ty landscape, now turned his eye upon the boundless sea, where the crested waves were rolling sboreward, and breaking in sullen roar upon the white sands. Not a sail dotted the vast expanse of blue, and with a sigh the eyes of the watcher once more turned upon the scene inland. The man was one whom the reader had met ‘the night before upon the deck of the schooner, for he was none other than the young captain of the pirate vessel, he whom the captors of his crew then believed te be dead and lying in the grave with those who had fallen. His uniform was soiled, and the sleeve of his left ari was blood-stained, showing that he had ‘not escaped the combat unscathed. His face was pale, a look of suffering rested cupon it, and yet there was an expression of ferocity lurking in his eyes, His sword had been broken, but the hilt anda art of the blade lay at his feet, while in his elt were a couple of pistols, with the flints in ‘place and the powder in the pan ready for use. He had fonght well, and to the last, in his un- holy fight, and then, seeing that all was lost, he ‘chad given up his fight, watched his chance and "made his escape in the darkness, the only one of his crew who had not been killed, wounded or mi ioe lying for ‘his ‘life, he had made his way to “the shores of the inlet, te discover that his ves- sel was in the possession of Duncan Dare, for he had cronclied intr im some bushes, and seen the victorious youth land, after the schooner was in -his pessession. **Satan’s maledictions upon the boy! * But I:am not yet dead,” he hissed, and he “rapidly made his way toward the sea-shore, and, ‘as dawn was approaching, sought safety by climbing ‘te ‘the top .of a sand.dune and hiding in the’ bowl like pine made by the wind. ‘They :must helieve ame dead,” he muttered; *** for I seeno Pos searching for me, ‘So be it; 1 yet live, and Duncan Dare you ~will find it out to your sorrow,” and the face of -the man grew fiendish in its look of hatred. Long he lay ‘therein ‘his retreat, the hot sun pouring down upon him, his wound paining him, vterribly, and-witame water-near, nor any food. He had a sea glass, which was slung to astrap ‘at his belt, and this he had placed in positicn, so a8 to give him a view of the inlet, and what was ‘occurring there, and he often bent his gaze upon *the scene, He saw fhe crowd increase in size, as the day “wore on, the pirate crew taken out in boats to the schooner, and ‘then all seemed to be await- ing the coming of:some one. ecidentally he glanced over toward the 'farm-house, before referred ta, the lands of ' which ran down to the shore of the inlet, and he -‘beheld a’party of four persons coming along the troadway leading to the Jittle cove, where the rpleasure boats were at anchor, Turning his glasé quickly upon the party, the pirate captain cried aloud: “Tt is that boy, Duncan Dare! “ But who are those with.him? “ Ah! vit is ‘his ‘mother, evidenfly, ‘but ‘the «others I cannot make out.” Down to.the cove fhey came, :and ‘having been *seen from the schooner’s deck, a boat-with six ! oarsmen, and with Constable Kane.as coxswain was sent ashore for them. The pirate fugitive saw them ‘board his -schooner, and he gritted his teefh viciously, and ‘soon after sail was :gotten-on both ‘vessels, and, amid loud cheering of ‘fhe crowd on shore and those on the boats, they.stood ‘toward ‘the en- trance to the inlet, At the helm steod Duncan Dare, and by his side were his mother, Jessieand the squire, with ithe constable near. A large surf-boat was ‘in tow of the schooner, ‘and in this the party were to return, While the ‘vessels went on their way, | The schooner led, ‘the Sloop following Close in | ther wake, and the crowd on the ‘shore hastened to watch their departure, while a score of small boats, containing parties from the village, followed them to the mouth of the inlet. From his point of lookout Captain Carl watched his schooner going out to sea with a sinking heart. **Curses on you, boy! you have thwarted me, in getting that treasure of Rafael the Rover, for | believe I could have found it, and now you are carrying my beautiful schooner up to the city a prize. ‘* My crew are either dead, or prisoners, and Tam here alone, penniless, and with a price on my head. ‘**Oh! but there shall come a day of reckoning with you, Duncan Dare!” and the pirate was livid with rage. Having gained an offing the schooner hove to, and the watching outlaw, closely watching with his glass, saw the long surf-boat put back to- ward the shore, and in it were a dozen people, ‘*His mother and those who were with her, are returning, and along with them that des- perate leader of the band who attacked me. _“* Yes, my schooner goes on her way to the city, and that boy is at her helm.” hrowing himself back upon the sand, in an almost despairing way, the pirate remained thus for a long time ere he again looked out over the waters. The schooner, two leagues away, was dashing along under pressure of a strong wind, her sails roped down to prevent her running away from the sloop in her wake, that was under a full spread of canvas. The boats in the inlet had gone up to the fur- ther end, and disappeared around a bend in the woods, where the pirate knew the villagers kept their little pleasure craft. The crowa nad disappeared, and the long surf- boat had just landed its Sena ay upon the pier in the little cove near the Dare farm. Then the party moved off slowly toward the farm-house, a quarter of a mile away. ‘the sun was drawing near its setting, and still Captain Carl kept his glass riveted upon the farm-house, the path to the shore of the cove, and upon the pleasure craft at anchor there, “Yes, Ican do that, I know; now to examine the inlet,” he muttered. Turning his glass upon the entrance to the inlet, he seemed to be studying the waters, with the reef beyond, and then as the darkness began to creep over land and sea, he said, in a determined, reckless way: * By Heaven! 1 will do at!” CHAPTER VII. THE FIRST REVENGEFUL BLOW! HaRpLy had twilight fallen upon the earth, when Captain Car! left his hiding -place. He was evidently suffering, and at first walk- ed slowly and with difficulty, but soon stepped with a quicker movement, and was not very long in coming to the inlet shores, He saw that the tide was just turning, and he hastily plunged into tho water, for to go around the head of the inlet was a matter of leagues, and would carry him dangerously near the vil- lage and more thickly settled part of the coun- try, while, if he waited, the full sweep of the current out to sea might carry him with it. He was a bold swimmer, so made good head- way with his clothes on, and incumbered as ho was with his broken sword and pistols. The tide swept him outward some distance, in the hundred yards he had to swim, but he made a landing, and then walked hastily along | | master, so take that!” was the stern response, the sandy shores until he came to the fringe of trees bordering the Dare farm harborage, A boat was moored against the little pier, and into this he sprung and sculled it rapidly out to a small cat-rig craft, some twenty-five feet in length, and with a comfortable cabin, The cabin was not locked, and opening it he went within. Feeling around in the darkness he discovered that it had a bunk on either side, a table that let oe when not in use, and above it hung a amp. _Asmall locker was beneath the lamp, and to his delight he found the means of lighting it. _ Closing the doors of the cabin, so that the light might not be seen by curious eyes, he soon lit the lamp and gazed about him. The little cuddy was by no means uninviting, there was bedding there, a storm suit and tar- paulin hung upon a peg, and a locker, beneath a seat, was supplied with a side of bacon, a bag of crackers, a can of ground coffee, another of Sugar, and a second locker contained some bun- dles of light wood, a tiny stove to cook on and a few cooking utensils. | A cask was also in the cabin, and the pirate was delighted to find that it was filled with fresh water, ““T certainly am in luck,” he muttered, and turning the lamp down low he went on deck, The craft rode by a single anchor, and seemed, from her build to be seaworthy and speedy. The sail was neatly furled, but this was soon shaken loose, and all arrangements made to de- art. : The anchor was then hauled up and the boat was pulled up to the little pier, where it was made fast by the painter and the sail raised, A saw found in the locker was then put to use in cutting a hole in the other boats, excepting a small life skiff which was fastened astern of the cat-rig. te ov T am ready to be off in an instant, as soon as I raise the sail,” he said, and with some difficulty he accomplished this, for his wounded arm seemed to give him trouble. As he got the sail spread, he saw the boats he had mutilated going down, and he uttered a low chuckle as he said: ‘They will not be used in pursuit.” Stepping out bs the pier, he then walked bewagt the farm-house, in which was visible a light, though it was now getting to be a late hour for country folk to be up. Cautiously he approached the outhouses, ana stood in the shadow of the barn for some time, watching to see 1f any one was moving about. No one was in sight, and, as he looked, the light in the house disappeared. Then he approached the house cautiously, and stopping at a stack gathered an armful of ay. This he carried to the side of the house and placed it beneath the piazza, and in such a way that it could not fail to quickly ignite the dry woodwork of the building. Back and forth from the haystack he went several times,carrying heavy loads each trip,and then he sought the shed and gathered armfuls of light wood, which were tossed under the piaz- za on the hay. Steadily and systematically he worked, and having arranged one pile to his satisfaction, he went to another part of the house and made a second, and then a third pile of inflammable ma- terial, This devilish work completed, he lighted a torch and rushing to the first pile quickly ignited it. Hardly had it blazed up when he had reached the second and the third piles of hay and light wood and then all three began to blaze furi- ously, \ Standing back in the shadow of an outhotise® he gazed upon the scene with the fiendish delight of an Indian, when suddenly the loud baying of a dog was heard, dashing from around the front of the mansloti where he had evidently been sleeping in blissful ignorance of the inhuman work going on against those whom he was to guard from danger. As the dog bounded toward him, the door of the rear wing of the mansion opened and a ne- gro came forth wild with fright. With his broken sword the pirate met the do and dealt him a blow that laid him bleeding an | dying at his feet; but the negro row saw him, by the light of the flames, and rushed upon bim most savagely, crying: ‘**Oho! you is one o’ dem pirits, is you, that Massa Dunkin captered, and you wants ter re- venge yerself, does yer?” “Yes, Iam Captain Carl, of the Spitfire, anc IT came here for revenge against your young, and knocking aside the blow of the negro’s e!ub, which he had hastily seized, Captain Carl gave him a slash with his broken blade that brought him down upon his knees, Quickly he gave him another stroke, and ths brave fellow sunk in bis tracks with a groan, just as wild cries were heard from the mansion, and old ’Liza, a negress, rushed out, screaming: “Fire! fire! fire!” The farm-hands, dwelling in an outhouse not far away, were now arouscéd, and with a bitter laugh of triumph, the pirate turned and fled to- ward the inlet. As he ran the flames from the three separate parts of the mansion hegan to light up the scene, and the crackling of burning timbers reached his ears. ‘‘ The house is doomed, for they cannot save it now. ‘Ha! the village church bell is ringing the alarm, so I must away, as they may have some craft further up the inlet in which they can fol- low me.” A So saying he sped along like a deer, reaching 4 w): ” Mae ay hake a ‘. 5 aoe ee ; ie suf ee 5 Se my tps a 5 ‘ = — " = » f ov Bere: a. ae eta * ) ‘ se # ~ . ov at a as . 7 ol -_ — b] ee cme 5, en Nee a 9a _ * fo d= Ne fe m Au ww, J —~ eS) Zs ‘~ ot * . . aN a Ces, he } =? :~ ~ = 5 : ee Se eee ee é iene —2 — a — . me
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the little pier, cast off the sail-boat’s painter and sprung on board, f A stiff breeze was blowiag, and catching the sail it sent the boat rapidly out into the inlet, while the light of the burning farm-house made allaround brightly visible. Out of the inlet he headed, and following the channel, as he remembered the schooner had done on entering, he soon ran into the breakers, passing them in safety and gaining the open sea. , Once he had reached deep water he put his helm down and headed for Montauk Point, at the further end of the island. As he sailed briskly along he saw the flames springing up high in air, from the burning house, and the voices of excited people and the ringing of alarm bells came distinctly to his ears, while the ruddy glare in his face showed it in all its fiendish triumph. **Mrs. Duncan Dare, I have struck my first revengeful blow in setting fire to your house, so beware of my next, for I know no mercy to one who has wronged me!” fairly hissed the pirate chief, as he stood up in the little boat and shook his clinched hand at the’burning farm-house a mile away. bis CHAPTER VIII. THE PIRATE’S LADY-LOVE, THE scene of my story changes from the Atlantic coast of Long Island, to the beautiful shores of Chesapeake Bay, ata point not very many leagues from the city of Baltimore. To one on the deck of a vessel sailing down the bay, a beautiful landscape would have met the eye, at the time of which I write, for a lordly house stands upon the summit of a wooded ridge, and sloping gently downward is a lawn that touches the white sands of a small cove, or harbor, which is sheltered from the rude seas and. winds by an arm of land that is heavily timbered. The mansion presents the appearance of a small castle, with its numerous wings, turrets and single massive tower, and on several sides are wide piazzas that overlook the bay and the landscape around. A flower garden is upon one side of the mansion, a park upon the other and the lawn in front, while in the rear are substantial looking hot-houses. A. winding carriage of the ridge, to a massive arched drive runs along the top ie in the distance, that opens upon the highway lead- Pakage The Sea Raider. by the maiden, who pic peo his extended hand in both her own, and said earnestly: : ‘©Ah! I am so glad to see you, Midshipman Dare, and it was most kind of you to come.” ‘*It'wasmy duty, as well.as my pleasure to do so, Miss Kate, for business called me to Washington, and T obtained leave of a few days to ses you, as I have! much to tell you.” “Tam glad you did not forget me; but tell your men to come on up to the mansion, as soon as they have made your craft shipshape, and they shall be well cared for.” ** No, thank you, they will remain on, board, for they have all they need, and I must start back early to-morrow,” and Duncan Dare, for he it was, offered his arm to the maiden and led the way ‘up the hill pathway toward the mxn- sion. A’ servant met them at the door, and Kate Kenyon gave orders to have the youth shown at once to his room, after which she sent to the two negroes who formed the crew of the little craft in,which Duncan Dare had come down to the plantation, all kinds of good edibles, In a short while Duncan made his appearance and joined the maiden out upon the piazza, ‘Tam sorry my father is away from home, Duncan, and he will not return until to-morrow, as he has gone down to his plantation on the James river; but I wish you could remain to see him, for he will be greatly disappointed at miss- ing you.” “As Iam at not seeing him, Miss Kate; but I deemed it my duty to run down to. see you, as well as it was my pleasure, for much ,has taken place since I saw you, that you should know.” “* Ah! ‘you have seen Carl Casandra,” she said quickly, and her face paled. ‘‘T have met him, yes; yet hardly can say that I have seen him. “You remember the plans of Captain Carl which we discovered, or rather you did, when you were a captive on his schooner, Miss Kate?” ‘In regard to his intended hunt for the treas- ure on Long Island?” ee Yes,” ‘He had a clew to the burype-place of cer- tain booty belonging to Rafael the Rover?” “Yes, and was to’ go there and make a search for it, aided by certain maps and directions that he had come in possession of. “T Jaid my plans to thwart him, and they were successful, for Captain Carl ran hhis schoon- er into the inlet near my home, landed his party of searchers, they being two-thirds of his crew, “T had written to Constable Kane, who you ing to Baltimore, and be Si the sea side of the | and left the vessel at anchor. house, is a gravel walk leading to a cliff that overhangs the waters of the bay above the little harborage. se Upon this cliff stands a young girl, and just behind her is a rustic arbor,in which upon a table is a guitar. In one hand she holds a book, in the other a sea-glass, and her eyes are turned upon a small sloop that is coming swiftly down the bay, and near inshore, _As she stands there the maiden presents a beautiful picture, for her form is perfection it- self, willowy in every motion, and her face is one of strange beauty, for the lovely features, full of refinement, bear on them the stamp of one who would do and dare, and could be as firm as iron, “Tt is not a fishing craft, that is certain, and our harbor seems to be her destination; but, if her skipper has never sailed in before, it will be very rs ey for him to attempt it. ‘*T will go out to him if he signals, though who he can be I cannot understand.” So said the maiden, and throwing aside her oe she turned her spy-glass upon the coming sail. The vessel was a small one, with look of a Baltimore pleasure craft, and but three persons were visible on board. ; Two of these were blacks, and the third, a white, was seated at the tiller. Still watching from the cliff the maiden saw the man at the tiller put his helm suddenly down and run for the little cove. ** Ah! who can he be that attempts to run in without a pilot¢ ** But he certainly runs right in the channel, and holds on without shortening sail, as though conscious of his own ability to reach the harbor- age in safety. ““Tf he rounds Turtle Back Shoal, without striking, he will get in without difficulty. ‘**Ah! I see his face now, and it is my brave boy preserver,” and the maiden suddenly darted away down the path leading to the shore of the cove. As the little craft reached the pier, and the ene who held the tiller sprung out, he was met: of storm, rather remember came to the schooner in search of me when we lay hidden near New York, and told him to have a band ready to attack the pirates when they reached the deserted house which they were going to search for the treasure, while I would run into the inlet with a vessel and cap- ture the Spitfire. ‘‘ This I did, and the constable also accom- plished his work thoroughly.” ‘* And Carl Casandra?” asked Kate Kenyon, earnestly, sing her hands nervously. ‘“*He was ki in the attack on him by the constable and his party.” “ Dead—dead! and he was the man that won my love! *¢ Ah me! what did he not make me suffer to feel that I had loved unworthily? ‘‘But it is better so—better that he be dead than living such a life.” ; The tears were dimming her beautiful eyes, and her lips were quivering as she spoke, rather to herself’ than addressing the youth. ‘Did you see him, slain, Duncan?” she asked calmly, after awhile. ‘No, Miss Kate. He was killed by the land force.” ‘* Did he die like a brave man?” ‘Ah, Miss Kate, Captain Carl was a brave man, vile as he was by nature; and Constable Kane said that if the pirates had obeyed their leader when surprised and attacked, they might have beaten his men off. ‘*Had they done this, and regained the schooner, the fight would have been a desperate one, for I had but twenty men with me.” : ‘¢ Where was he buried?” ‘‘Tn the grave with his men, in a small copse of pines near where he fell.” “‘ So be it; he is at rest, and can sin no more; but, Duncan, it is strange that I could love one so unworthy. , “T had torn every atom of love for him from my heart, but now that he is dead, I forget his sins, and remember him as he appeared to me when first I knew him. , : " “Better far that he had drowned that night than that I should have gone. a | ’ Ee = bee rons A & aH - Teo . “You, will like him, Midship out in the life-boat and saved him, his vessel and ~ crew, and had him become what he did.” ‘Miss Kate, had Captain Carl lived, he would ~ not have given you up, for he had sworn to — make you his wife, and he would have come here and taken you away, mark my words on. that,” ‘*T believe you, Duncan, and it is far better as, it is, and it was kind of you to come and tell me all. ‘* But now tell me of yourself, and your future plana and let me know all about your visit ‘ home, and if you saw the sweet little Jessie Hampton, of whom you so often spoke to me?” The name of Jessie caused Duncan Dare’s eyes to sparkle, and he, told. the lovely maiden all about his run to the inlet, the capture of the Spitfire, his visit home, and his setting sail for ew York, where, after haying delivered up his prisoners, he had been sent to' Washington, by the kind-hearted commander of the brig-of-war, to make his own report of the affair. * And what will you do now, Duncan?” asked Kate Kenyon. «The Spitfire is to be fitted ont as a Govern- mént. cruiser, her cruising-ground to be around Long Island Sound, down the coast, up the Chesapeake Bay and back to ‘the lower bay of New Fork, and I am to act as third officer on board. of her, holding rank as passed midship- man,” ‘“* This is splendid, Duncan, and we will often see you then, for never must you pass up or down, the Chesapeake without giving us a call, and your brother officers will be ever welcome. | ‘But why must you hurry away?” ‘* Because Iam ordered to take charge of the Spitfire until her commander, his other officers and crew arrive on board.” * Well, Duncan, you have before you a bril- liant career, and my prayers will ever attend you, for I owe to you more than I can ever re- ay, as it is a fearful Pane 1 be a pirate’s lady- oye, and be in his power too. ‘*T should have died by my own hand had you. not rescued me from him, and you knuw I can never forget you,” and Kate Kenyon spoke with ‘| an earnestness that was most impressive. ‘‘Have you seen Mr. Merton Regnier, the gentleman your father wished you to marry?” asked Duncan, anxious to change the snbject. ‘* No, nor heard of him; but had I not, believ- ing Carl Casandra true, have run off with him, I would have married Merton Regnier, and yet I did not love him. ‘Now I would not renew my engagement with him if he returned, for all love in m heart is at an.end, and I shall live and die as am, plain Kate Kenyon; but come, there is the: tea-bell, and we will have a pleasant little sup- per together,” and Kate led the way, throwing off with an effort the sad memories that were crowding upon her at the recollection that she had been the lady-love of a pirate. CHAPTER IX. DUNCAN DARE RECEIVES A LETTER. _ AFTER spending the night at Castle Kenyon,. Duncan Dare started upon his rcturn to Balti- more. The little craft which he had chartered for the: run down the Chesapeake, was very fleet, and he made good time upon his way back. Kate had gone out with him, her surf-skiff towing astern, and after seeing him a league on his course, started upon her return. The midshipman arrived in Baltimore just in. time to catch the night stage to Philadelphia, and was soon sleeping comfortably as the ton” bering vehicle went on its way. Keeping steadily on he reached New York in good time and at once went on the brig-of-war and reported for duty. The commander, Captain Carter Gray, hed taken a great fancy to the boy, and had wished to have him a middy en his brig, the Tornado; but he congratulated Duncan upon his promo- tion, and told him that the Spitfire was bein put in perfect trim, and he could go on boar the next day and take charge until her com- mander arrived, adding: capa?” a ‘Yes, sir, I heard him spoken of as Lieuten- — ant Burton Beverly, a South Carolinian.” wf ‘‘T know him, and a more dashing, fellow does not live. ‘““He was a middy in the Delaware flagship, é when I was a lieutenant, and had not anenemy oe on board ship. ; ‘He is. as handsome as a picture, fearless, — generous, and has superb contro] over men,, while as a seaman he has few equals. vd idshipman Dare, & ‘* By the way, do you know who is to be her * an daring =f
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mi” - know, and I congratulate you upop your com- mander; but here is a letter that came for you to-day.” {tis from my mother,” said Duncan, glanc- ing at the address, and breaking the seal, with a bow of apology to the captain, he began to read it. Captain Gray saw him start and turn pale, and said, quiskly: ‘No bad news, I hope, Dare.” “‘T will read you, sir, what my mother says, if you will allow me.” * With pleasure.” “Then Duncan Dare read as follows: “ HAMpTon HALL, “My Own Dear Son:—You will be surprised to see my letter dated from Hampton Hall, but I am here now for a few days, as I have no home now, the farm-house having been destroyed by fire last night. ‘* The squire and Jessie forced me to accompany them home, for they drove over in their carriage to the fire, and I will remain until this afternoon, when 1 go to the tavern in the village, to live until I re- build our home, for I shall do so at once. ‘*Poor dear old home, if is but a heap of ashes now, but Phasnix-like, out of its ashes a new man- sion shall spring, and one worthy to be inherited by my distinguished sailor boy. ‘But let me tell you of the’burning, and all else connected with it, and you will see that you have to be on your guard against peril of a treacherous na- ture. * After having s*en you out to sea in the schooner as you remember, we returned home, and I kept the squire and Jessie to tea with me, “They lett early for home, and I, being tired, went to my room, “Liza put away the tea things, and then went to bed, and Dan had gone to the village on an errand for himself. _ “T was sleeping soundly, and it'seemed to me that I had the nightmare, for [ could not awaken, and I distinctly heard the crackling of burning wood, and beheid the flames. **At last Dan darted into my room and aroused me. “There was a brilliant red glare in my room, and I realized, without his telling me, that the house was on fire. ‘He darted out to arouse the farm-hands, and I arose and hastily dressed, while ‘Liza acted. splen- didly, and we got together the silver, my papers and other things of value, “Tran out of the house and saw that it was im- ossible to save it, and also realized that it had een the work of an incendiary, for under the southern piazza, the east porch and the west wing had been piled light wood and hay, and then set on fire, the house had been quickly enveloped in the rumble of wheels approaching, and the cries of fire upon all sides, as people hufried to the spot. “Then the farm-hands rushe1 up to me and told me that the incendiary had killed your beautiful dog, Savage. ee “Next came news that poor Dan had been found, beds, wounded, and grasping in his hand a broken sword. “Tran to his side and found that he was indeed badly wounded. **] stanched the blood as best I could; and just then Doctor Doane, who had been on a visit to a patient, and was passing, drove up. ‘‘ We carried Dan into the farm-lodge, and Doctor Doane dressed his wounds. * Fearful that Dan might die, Doctor Doane call- ed Constable Kane and they had him tell the story of what he knew about the affair. ‘He said he had returned from the village and gone to his room; but he could not: sleep. ‘ At last he heard a sound outside, and ran to see what it was, when Savage barked furiously and dashed sround the house, “Then he saw a bright glare without, and rush- ing into my room he aroused me, and then ’Liza, af- ter which he ran out doors, ‘He was terribly frightened, he said, at seeing the house on fire in three different places,’ but just then saw a man standing not far away, and he determin- ed to attempt to capture him, “ Seizing a stick be rushed upon him, but was met with a broken sword, and was twice severely wound- ed, while the Xpress Cap oaths “He told him be w arl the Corsair, and that he had come to strike his first blow of re- Venge against you. -“Qaptain Carl! then he is not dead!” cried _ Captain Gray, springing tohis feet. “So it seems, sir, unless he was killed that night, but my mother will doubtless tell,” and Duncan Dare resumed his letter, though his face was very pale, and his voice quivered a little in spite of his effort to control it. . ay * Having poor Dan who he was, Captain Carl arte Y, Jeavin i oken swor hands, for he’beld toit aeaity, and the pirate had to leave, as he SAW the farm-hands approaching. . flames. f ‘The village bells were Sachin and I could hear “He ran down toward the inlet, Dan said; but as he had had @ 00d start before it was known. when | Gonstable Kane mounted his horse in pursuit, he found that your Cat-rig cabin boat, the Jessie, Was: ‘one, Z “She had for arun to New it been London, for in Dan’s | ti had loaned weer! Captain Hiram — . ~ The Sea agen. Rogers for a few days, and he was to come after her the next morning, ‘Riding rapidly to the shore, Constable Kane saw the Jessie going out through the breakers, and head- ing as though to run the. coast to New York, so he dashed back to the farm, and told me he would ride hard to Babylon, get a craft there and head the pirate off, and I hope that he will do so; but a storm came up before dawn, and if Captain Carl was alone he may have been lost.” “ No danger of that, for Satan takes care of his own,” said Captain Gray. Resuming his letter, Duncan Dare read: ‘‘ Poor Dan is in desperate danger, and yet there is hope for him, and I have told Doctor Doane to re- main by him night and day. ‘*As for te house, it isin ashes, asI said; but T saved my valuables, your father’s portrait, and a few little souvenirs that were in your room ** All the rest isa total loss, but.I have ample funds in bank to rebuild the house, and it shall be begun at once, **But Duncan, my son, beware of that man Cap- tain Carl, for he managed to escape when you all deeme? him siain, and though flying for his life. he struck you a bitter blow, and he will still seek to harm. yes to ki'l you. ‘He may be without a vessel or a crew, and yet he is not one to be despised, and I beg of you not to let him end your young life by some act of treach- ery. *‘ Jessie sends a letter of condolence within, and the squire will write vou, and says leave no stone unturned to capture. Captain Carl, should the con- stable fail in doing so, for he is sure he will make for New York,” ‘* The advice of your mother and the squire, Dunean, must be followed. “You can take a crew at once, and go in search of that daring fellow, for somehow L be- lieve he will escape the constable, ‘* While you take the little ten-ton cutter and a dozen men, and go down New York Bay, I will cruise through the Sound in search of him, for he may not have run up the Atlantic. coast, but rounded Montauk and come up the Sound, as he doubtless would, being alone, for then he would have plenty of havens into which he could run and rest: himself.” “* But he may not be alone, sir, and, doubtless, nae escaped that, night, others of his crew did. ‘You are right, he is doubtless not alone, so go prepared to meet a stronger resistance,” said Captain Gray, and an hour after a, pretty little sloop, having on board a six-pound brass piece, a dozen tars, and Duncan Dare as commander, sailed down New York harbor in search of Cap- tain Carl, the fugitive pirate. CHAPTER X, TRICKED, ‘* WELL, I’ve got to battle with a storm, that is certain, and I do not like the idea, wounded as I am,” said Captain Carl, as he headed his Poe boat northeast, after he had run out of the inlet. Had the constable waited an instant, he would have seen the pirate spanes his course, and, b riding to Sag Harbor, could have gotten a craft to head him off, instead of going as he did to Babylon on the Atlantic shore, believing that the — was going along the coast to New York. When Captain Carl made the remark that opens this chapter, he had nearly rvached the end of Long Island, and was standing on, in the hope of rounding Montauk before the storm struck him. It was his desire to do this, and find a haven on the Sound shore, that forced him to hold on to his full sail until the last, and the result was that he had not time to take in his canvas when the storm did strike, and his mast was snapped short off, and away went the wreck overboard. To cut away the wreckage was but a mo- ment’s work, and then Captain Carl found him- self driving up the Sound in a boat that had no mast, and was a wreck upon the waters, “She'll be driven ashore somewhere, and Pll be on the very island I sought to escape from,” he muttered. But the wreck kept well out in the Sound, the storm blew over, it drifted back with the tide, and out to sea. us several days passed away, and once more the wreck was borne by the tide into the Sound. Without an oar even, with which to make a jury-mast, the pirate had to see himself drifting helplessly about, and knew that some vessel must soon pick him up. If it was a vessel-of-wa his, fate. was sealed, he well kn fishing-boat, he felt ew. . If it was a Long Island that his danger of tecognition would be almost as great. = pee Se en Se ee eee EE SS OS ee ee Ee ee. ae ee eS ee ae Had the wreck been near the land, he would have sprung overboard and swam there, pre- ferring to take his chances on shore to the sea. At length, one morning as the sun arose he spied a vessel in sight. She was coming slowly along, and must pass near him. To his experienced eye the rig told him she et a vessel-of-war, and after a closer look he said: ‘*My God! it is the Tornado, and Carter Gray é is her commander, and he knows me well. ‘*T have but one chance now in a thousand.” As he spoke he sunk back into the cockpit, and thus, with closed eyes, limp form and un- conscious he was found half an hour after by the eke of the Tornado’s boat that had boarded 2m. ©Tt is as T supposed; he took the Sound course up to the city, and was dismasted in the storm of three nights ago. “Tt is Carl Casandra,” said’ Captain Gray. | *¢ And he is insensible, sir,” said the surgeon. “Yes, he is as you see, wounded, and his face ' shows that he has suffered much, while he has doubtless been overcome by the hardships he has’ endured, ‘*It is better for him, if he never recovers; but you must do what Bes can, surgeon, as he must not cheat the yard-arm, if in your power to save him for it. / “Now, back to New York we go,” The brig was put about and headed up the | Sound on her return to her anchorage in New York harbor. Captain Carl, to receive better attention, had | been taken into the captain’s cabin, and placed” in a state-room. But all day long he lay in an unconscious state. The surgeon did all that his skill could sug- ' gest to restore him to consciousness, butin vain. The pirate breathed hard, his limbs were limp, and he seemed to have no feeling. "a The wound in his arm was found to have heen made by a bullet, and probing for the ball the surgeon found it, and extracted it, while he re- marked to Captain Gray: ‘“*He seems dead to all doubtless die without regaining consciousness. * Ah! here is another wound in his side; but ° it is slight, and made by the point of asword. | “See, it was struck up, as you see by the cut, before it could penetrate.” ) Both wounds were then carefully dressed, and some medicine was forced into the mouth through the clinched teeth; but still the pirate lay in his deep sleep, and the skill of the surgeon © was unable to arouse him. ; It was just after sunset that the Tornado dropped anchor in the old harborage, and soon after the little sloop, in which Duncan Dare had sailed, ran up near and let fall her hook. Captain Gray was pacing the deck, for the cabin was warm and uncomfortable, and hail- ing Dare, asked him to come at once on board. ‘Did you find your man, Dare?” he asked, or A midshipman joined him on the quarter- eck, ‘* No, sir,” and 1 am confident that he either ’ did not come up the coast, from all inquiries I made of in-coming vessels, or was in the | storm.” ‘“'We have been more fortunate, Dare.” “Ah!” ; “Yes, we found Captain Carl adrift in your boat Jessie, which had been dismasted in the storm.” : ‘Thank Heaven you have him safe!” ejacu- lated the youth “‘ As I thought, he took the Sound course, and when dismasted, drifted about at the mercy of wind and tide. : Tete s ‘“T took the little wreck in tow, and it will be as good as ever for you, when you have another mast put in.” : ‘ “Tt was good of you, sir, for I prize the Jes- sie most highly; but the prisoner?’ “We found him in an unconscious condition, and I had him placed in my cabin, whers the surgeon has been at work on him all day. “He had two wounds, a pistol-shot in bis arm, and a slight sword-cut on the breast; but he still remains in that unconscious condition, which he had when we discovered him, and he nas doubtless passed through enough to kill m. ** After all his crimes, sir, I ho die and thus cheat the gallows. . ~ * Are you sure that he is really unconscious?” -** How do you mean?” ‘* He is not feigning unconsciousness?” *Egad, that’s a new idea; but, sir, he was that way when we found him, and he did not flinch at the probe and extracting the bullet.” in, sir, and will he may not ; | \ }
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—— 7 \ - 7 we ae ee hag The Sea Raider. eS ts ais é ““T cannot see, sir, what could get him into this state, for he isa man of iron constitution, he had food on the Jessie, and his wounds were not serious, so—” **By Jove, Dare, you give me a new idea, and I will have the surgeon try another way to rouse him. ‘* Mr. Leonard, send the surgeon to me in the cabin at once. ‘*Come, Dare!” and Captain Gray descended to the cabin. The lamp burned brightly, and walking to the port state-room, which had been given to the pirate, Captain Gray uttered an exclama- tion that was mingled with profanity, for Cap- tain Carl was gone ! One of the stern ports was open, and a rope hung from it to the water, the end being fast- ened to a cleat inside the cabin. ‘* Dare, you are right! that man was playing possum to trick us, and he did so most cleverly. “Tf I catch him again I shall hang him at once,” and the surgeon coming in was horrified when told how cleverly he had been tricked by the cunning Corsair, CHAPTER XI. THE JEW AND THE CORSAIR. WHEN Captain Carl made the remark, at the time of his dessovertig the brig-of-war, that his chances were one in a thousand, he quickly played his cards to win that one chance. e knew that his surroundings, his wounds | and all were in favor of his being found ina de- | plorable condition, far from what he really was. So he had sunk back in the cockpit, and then nerving himself to play his bold part, he pre- tended to be in an unconscious state when the boat of the brig came alongside. He was certainly believed to be unconscious and the surgeon went to work on him. His peril quickened his pulse, and he was considered in a comatose state by all. The probing of his wound had given him great po sent but such was his nerve and self-control, that he had not flinched. Thus the day passed away, night came, the cabin lamp was lighted, and Captain Carl knew that he was alone. The anchor was dropped, the brig became sta- tionary, and then the daring outlaw arose. Glancing out into the cabin he saw that no one was there, A coil of rope hung in his state-room, and seizing this he glided across the cabin to the open port, made the rope fast about a cleat, and quickly ae down it into the water. He did not know how far he was from the shore, and he did not care; all he wanted was to leave a vessel where a rope was about his neck, Diving deep, he at last arose some distance from the brig, and again he dove, and again, until he was a cable’s length away. Then he looked about him. . The Brooklyn shore was not far away, but it was the New York shore where he wished to land, so he struck out for it with a bold stroke. Just then a sloop passed him, making for the brig apparently. F e light from the companionway fell full upon a uniformed person standing by the helms- man. ‘‘ It is that accursed boy!” he gritted througia his teeth, and he sunk below the surface. When the sloop passed on he again swam shoreward, and soon landed near a pier above Fulton street. _ Cautiously he left the water, and walking in- to a Jew’s shop, where were all kinds of old clothing, he said pe “T want a suit of clothes, Jew.” : “You vas all wetted,” said the Jew, gazing at the dripping uniform. es,” ** You vas tumble overpoard, maype.” * "Yes? ‘“You vas lucky that you don’t trown, mine fri’nt.” ae you intend to show me what I wish, or not? ‘‘ Ah, mine fri’nt, I vill so very quick. ‘* Vat vas you vants in t’e vay of clothes?” ‘Give me a Civilian’s suit, and new if you have them, with a slouch hat—yes, give me a dress that will pass for a Southern planter, and if you have any disguise, let me see it.” “ T vas have a fine suit of a Southern blanter, mine fri’nt; it vas pelong toa yoong mans that vas come here rich, put he vas gamble too mooch, lose all his monish, and then he plow his prains out quick at his hotel, so I puys his cloving.” ; ‘* Let me see what you have of his.” “Tt vas all in that troonk, mine fri’nt,” and | the Jew pointed to a small trunk, and throw- ing it open, Captain Carl saw within shirts, neckties, boots, several suits of clothes, some slouch hats, a cloak, a cane, and some under- wear. “Tt is just what I need, for if the hats fit, the clotves I know will, and the boots doubtless also will. ‘** What do you want for the lot?” ‘One hundred dollars, mine fri’nt.” ‘*Here is your money, in gold; but, tell me, have you a disguise of any kind?’ ‘A mask?’ oe but something that will hide my face as well. ‘*T have a good peard, mine fri’nt.” ‘**Let me see it.” The beard was brought, and being blonde, | aided in thoroughly disguising the face, which a | wig of like hue wholly completed. **Send me a barber, Jew, to have my hair cut short,” said Captain Carl. ‘*T vas do t’e pizziness mineself,” and the Jew got his shears. In a short while the brown locks of the pi- rate were cut off, and dressed in the planter’s suit of gray, the light slouch hat, and with his blonde wig and beard, not even the keen eyes of Duncan Dare would have known him. ‘*Mind you, Jew, no word of this change,” he said, sternly. ““Oh, mine fri’nt, I vas dumb; put if you vants to sell sie things again, I vas give you | liberal monish for dem.” * Allright; but have you fire-arms?” ‘**T have fine pistols, mine fri’nt.” ‘* Let me see them.” A pair of handsome pistols were brought, in a mahogany case, velvet lined, and the weapons were mounted with silver. ‘*T will take these; but have you a knife?” The Jew saw that his customer was not one to ask the a of anything, so he brought him out a jewel- ilted dagger. ‘ This is a fine weapon, and will do. ‘* How much do I owe you?” “One hundred and fifty toilars.” ‘* Here is your money—no, I have not somuch, , for my money has given out; but I have some jewels here you may be able to give me gold | for. ““The Jew’s eyes sparkled as the pirate took out a small buckskin bag and poured out upon the table a dozen fine gems. ; ‘‘ Give me the gold for these two diamonds,” | he said, picking up two of the largest. ; | ‘They is worth five hundred tollars apiece, | mine fri’nt.” : __ ‘They are worth just asmuch more, Jew, and I know it. ‘* f want two thousand dollars for them,” ‘*T will give you fifteen hunder tollars, mine fri’nt.” ** Not a cent under two thousand will I take, ; and then you will make a couple of hundred on each, as you know,” “Well; mine fri’nt, I will gif you te monish you vants, and I hopes you vill come pack to me again.” “TY will, if you act square with me: but tell me, do you buy goods of all kinds?” ‘* Everything, mine fri’nt.” ‘* Suppose some articles should have astain on them, what then?” ‘** Vat color?” ce Red. ” ‘** Plood, maype?” es. ” co OY | ‘* Plood vashes off, mine fri’nt.” ‘Then I will know to whom I can come, and you are convenient to the water here, so expect to see me again, ‘* Your name, Jew?” ‘* Saul Seixas, mine fri’nt.” ze Mister Saul Seixas, I shall not forget you. ‘Send the trunk to the City Hotel, and | @ paper on it with my name.’ ‘ What vas your name, mine fri’nt?” “Ah, I had forgotten: let me see, call me Doctor Carlton,” and, having received his money for the two gems, Captain Carl departec from the Jew’s shop swinging a cane In his hand, which he had also purchased as an addi- tion to his make-up. Going straight to the City Hotel, then a fash- ionable inn, he registered his name as “ . M. 10% begets Louisiana,” and saying that his baggage would soon ’arrive, asked to be shown ica good quarters as the house could give him. —_$ $$$ re —— . " : * Fay aii ee Fe eae OR Soon after his baggage arrived, and worn out with what he had undergone the past few days, he sought the rest he so much needed, and was soon sleeping as sweetly as though grim phan- toms of his crimes were not ever near to haunt his life, and accuse his conscience with his wicked deeds. CHAPTER XII. A STRANGE MEETING, ‘CLERK, who is that gentleman?” asked Cap- tain Carl, the afterncon following his arrival at the City Hotel, as he beheld a tall man, distingue in appearance, dressed most fashion- ably, and with a strongly stamped face pass out into the street. ‘““That gentleman, Doctor Carlton, is a South Carolina planter, who is as rich asa prince. ‘* His rooms are near yours, and the very best we have in the house, and they say he is the luckiest man that ever staked money on a card, for he plays now and then I have heard.” “Ah! and he is from South Carolina you say” ‘Yes, doctor.” ‘‘ What did you say his name was?” “Ah! I forgot to tell you; it is Colonel Mer- ton Regnier.” ; ; ‘Indeed! I have heard of him,” and the pirate strolled off to his room. . He had tested his disguise by daylight and found it perfect, and he had passed the morning in purchasing certain articles he needed. n the afternoon, having dined, he sat down on the piazza, for the New York taverns of that day had such luxuries, kind reader, and was enjoying a cigar, when the South Carolina planter had passed near him. __ He had started, sprung to his feet and ad- vanced toward the stranger; but checking his. seeming intention of speaking to him walked up to the desk and asked the clerk regarding the person. ; i The result seemed to satisfy him, for he went to his room with a strange smile upon his face. After dark the pirate dropped into the theater, and from there wended his way to Fulton street, where, at that time, was located the most fash- ionable gambling saloon in the city. The clerk at the hotel had given him a card of introduction, for the place was exclusive in the 1 extreme and admitted no one not mtroduced, and he readily passed the porter and was usher- ed into the brilliantly-lighted chambers, some half dozen in number. They were furnished with rare élegance and taste, fine pene es adorned the walls, soft sofas and chairs lured to repose, and a side- board, glittering with silver and cut glass in- vited one to partake of wines and liquors, while arefreshment table, filled with delicacies stood near. There were a score of card tables, and all oc- cupied, a game of monte, another of roulette a third of rouge et noir, and several chance games that were sure to win for the bank and for the player. i Captain ‘arl sauntered about the room his eyes fell upon the tall form of the South Carolina planter. F . He was not playing, but stood idly watchinga game, and taking bis stand near him, the pirate said, with a bow and smile: ‘‘ Pardon me, sir, but would you be willing to | play a geene of cards with one who is a stranger to you ¥ ¢ Certainly, sir, though I do not often play, and I warn you that my luck is great. ““My name is Merton Regnier, sir; I am a planter and a South Carolinian.” “Tam glad to meet you, Colonel Regnier, for so I heard you addressed. ‘My name is Doctor Carlton, and I tooam a Southerner, hailing from Louisiana. ‘We will find a table in the little blue room yonder,” and the two walked in that direction, It was a cosey little roomjand.a servant brought cards, brandy and glasses, and they sat down to play, the pirate dealing. The first game was for @ stake of a hundred > dollars, and the result was that Captain Carl was _ ‘ “py the winner, ‘ “T see my luck has not begun with the game. “ Suppose we increase the stakes to double,” said Mr, Regnier, with a pleasant smile. “ T am willing, Sf The next game ended as had the first, with thas | a ae i he winner. peri ‘you double the stakes again, sir?” asked Mr. ier. ' Cortainly ” The third game but increased the pirate’s win- nings. ae = aie
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ye af om we double the stakes each game, Doctor Carlton?” said the South Carolinian, with mo show of uneasiness at his losses. ‘** As you please, Mr. Regnier.” ‘Then it is sixteen hundred we play for this mame?” oe Yes, sir.” is 2 thirty-two hundred.” . es,” ‘* You still win, Doctor Carlton; but Imay yet -have a turn in the tide. ‘‘ Tt is sixty-four hundred now.” “*Tt is.” : ** And you win once more, “T really like this doubling the stakes, for it sadds zest to the game, so now we play for twelve thousand eight hundred dollars.” ‘You are right, sir,” ** And I win,” was the cool reply of the South ‘Carolinian. The pirate flinched, for he saw luck was turning. ‘* Now, sir, it is twenty-five thousand six hun- dred we play for, I believe?” said the South Carolinian, in the easiest manner possible. ‘* Yes,” sternly answered the pirate, though he knew he had nothing like that sum with him. ‘* Again I win, doctor, and again we double, if you say so?” ‘Let me see; I have not a very large sum of money with me, but I have some gems here worth fully fifty thousand, so I will place them against your fifty thousand dollars.” And the pirate took out his little bag of gems. ‘They are fine stones, evidently selected, and are worth just a little over the sum,” said Mr. Regnier, with the air of one who knew what he ~was talking about. “Well, sir, I will take out this one, and then the balance go against what I may owe you at tthe end of this game?” ON e8sir.” “*Ts that satisfactory, Colonel Regnier?” “* Wholly so, Doctor Carlton,” was the smiling reply, and the game was begun. ach man played slowly and cautiously, for they realized that a fortune was at stake. At last, on the turn of a card, the South Car- -olinian won. The pirate turned very pale for an instant, then his face flushed and a reckless look flashed -through his eyes, while he said coolly : ** You are indeed most lucky, sir.” “‘T warned you that I was, Doctor Carlton.” “True, sir, but Iam not one to ever heed ~warnings. tia it is nearly two o’clock, so I must be <oOl, ‘**Do you go my way, Colonel Regnier?” “Which way do you go?” ‘* To the City Hotel.” ‘* Ah! then we are guests at the same house, “The money is yours, doctor, and next game ' for I am stopping there.” “Shall we go together?” “Yes, sir, with pleasure.” And arm in arm, like the best of friends, the Pi hos ah ecg and wended their way In the office they bade each other good-night ‘and, with a hope that they would meet again. the South Carolinian went to his room. ya _ He had just put on his dressing-govn, smok- ing-cap and slippers, for a quiet smoke, late as bags hour, when there came a knock at bis t . In surpris? he arose and went to i is ways kept it securely locked, pyeet peal “Ah! Doctor Carlton, walk in, sir, and have -a cigar and some brandy and water with me.” “Thank you, sir, T will, for 1 came up to have a little talk with you. “T am delighted,” and the South Carolinian ‘motioned his guest to an easy-chair on one side -of the table, while he dropped into another, There was a decanter of brandy on the table, a box of cigars, a silver tankard of water, anda ‘curiously carved pipe. 5 he rooms were large and handsomely fur- ‘nished, and about them were a number of articles that proved the occupant to be the possessor of -a refined taste. : { A sip of brandy and a cigar, and the pirate k you a few ques- said: Beat ee may Ase I explain after- tion, without giving offense, if ward my motive?” ie tedegur sir,” was the reply, -seemed a trifle annoyed, f ‘What part of South Carolina, sir, May Task, as your home located?’ .” ‘Not very far from Charleston, on the coast. but the man The Sea Raider. ‘** May I ask if you know a Maryland planter by the name of Cyle Kenyon?” The South Carolinian slightly started, but an- swered: ‘* Yes, sir, I know such a gentleman.” ‘* He lives on the shores of the Chesapeake, does he not?” ‘*-Yes, sir.” ‘*T am anxious to know if it 1s truethat his daughter was engaged to marry a man whom she knew to be a pirate?” ‘““My dear Doctor Carlton, I do not know what motive you have for these questions, and presume that you will, as you said, explain them in the end. * But I will tell you that Miss Kate Kenyon was engaged to me, sir, but she ran off and mar- ried a pirate who had once been an officer of the navy, and who was killed on Long Island a week ago.” “What became of his bride?” ‘* That I do not know, nor do I care, after her desertion of me.” ‘* Doubtless you feel bitterly toward her, Col- onel Regnier.” ‘**T cannot help it, sir, and she deserves it for her giving me up for a pirate,” and it was very certain that the South Carolinian felt deeply angered and annoyed at the part his in- tended bride had played. ‘** Now, colonel, may I ask if you are nota very rich man?” “Yes, sir, I will tell you that I am, though why you desire the knowledge I cannot under- stand.” ‘“*Did you make it all by piracy, Colonel Reg- nier?” The eyes of the South Carolinian flashed fire, and he said sternly: ‘Do I understand that you intend to insult me, sir?” **Colonel Regnier, don’t get excited, for it will do you no good, for [ know you well, air. ‘*'You know me?” ‘*'Yes, sir.” ‘* Who am I!” and the man was getting a dan- gerous look in his eyes. ‘““Your name is Regnier; yes, Merton M. Regnier, and you own a plantation on the coast near Charleston, and you are a very rich man, ‘But I am aware that your former home was Baltimore, and there you went under your middle name of Marks, dropping the Merton Regnier. ‘*Now, Mr. Marks, I am aware that you de- ceived Mr, Kenyon, and his daughter, as to who you are; but you cannot deceive me,” ‘* By Heaven, sir, but you are making strange charges against me, and you shall eat your in- sulting words,” hissed the South Carolinian. ‘“*“No, Marks, I will do nothing of the kind; but you will do something, for you will furnish the money I need for a certain purpose, for you are amply able to do it.” ‘Do you dare tell me I will give you money for some work you need it for?” **T do say so, and you will. ‘The truth is, I wish to buy a fine schooner for a flag that I intend cruising under, and I have not the money. ‘**T sought to win gold to-night, but lost, for I am unfortunate in my gambling, though suc- cessful in my cruising under the black flag—” ‘* Ha! a self-acknowledged pirate! ‘*T will at once have you arrested,” and the man arose excitedly. ‘* Marks, sit down,” ‘* No, sir!” “Sit down I say; or if you wish to call an officer do so, and you will go with me to jail, for I have proof that you area prate while you have only my word for it, which I will deny having said. “Now will you sit down, Marks?” The man dropped into a chair and Captain Car] continued: ““Now, Marks, I wish to fit out my vessel, and I can buy the craft for fifteen thousand dol- ars, “Her extra rig, armament, and fitting out will cost ten thousand more, and then.I need to ship a crew, and in all I will need, say fifty thousand dollars. ‘* As you won from me that sum to-night you will not miss it; but I must have the money, “a 0, sir.” ‘I say yes,” ** Not oe me.” ves, from you.” ; ‘What do I get, if I give you the money? «¢, 22OW do you mean?” ee What interest in your prizes? ‘* Not one dollar, other t what I choose to give you.” . | _ asa sso tbat “‘T will never give you a dollar, for what do I know about your capacity as a commander?” ‘* You must take that, on faith.’ ‘** Not a dollar do you get from me.” “Tf this is your decision, Mr. Marks, I shall send for an officer, have you arrested, send to Baltimore for the man you left in charge of your affairs there, and, by your own papers, which are in my hands, I will send you to the gallows. ‘Now, Marks, will you give me the sum I ask you for, or refuse it?’ The man was deeply moved and he felt that his visitor held the advantage of him. At last he said: “IT will buy a schooner for you, the one you wish, and fit her out fully, cial cie you her cap- tain, on condition we have equal shares in the booty, after the expenses are paid and the men get their ee money.” ‘* No, Marks, we can make no such terms, for I hold the key of the situation, and you have either to decide now in favor of my demand, or go to prison as a pirate, ‘*Come, Marks, what do you say?” a | can but yield to a robber who has me in his wer.’ ‘You yield gracefully, Marks, and I am glad you have not forced me to go to extremes, ‘* Now count me out the money and I will be off; but we will meet again, for if I get broke, or have ill fortune, I may drop into your down- town office to get you to stake me again.” ‘“My down-town office?” fairly gasped the man. ‘‘'Yes, for I know where it is, as well as I do that you are playing a double game in this city, for no one woulc recognize in Marks the money- lender, the elegant Colonel Regnier of South Carolina, ‘* Now let me have my money, and I will leave you to your thoughts.” The South Carolinian uttered an oath, count- ed out his money, pushed the sum demanded to the pirate, and then pointed to the door. ith a light laugh Captain Carl arose and took his departure, giving the man Marks a mock bow as he left the room. With a loud snap the bolts were shot after him, and the pirate uttered a light laugh that evidently reached the ears of the man whom he had forced to give to him a small fortune. CHAPTER XIII. TRE PIRATE’S PLAN, THE pirate schooner Spitfire was undergoing a thorough overhauling. She kad been taken into the dock and her hull had been put in perfect condition, after which she was painted, new spars were added, several guns put on board fapiace some that were not in the best condition, and in about two weeks’ time she was in readiness for sea, and only awaiting the coming of her commander and her Se who were to be sent on from Washing- on. Learning that there would be some delay in their coming, Captain Gray had granted Dun- can Dare leave to go down to see his mother, whom the youth was anxious about, since the burning of her home, and, as he could find no trace of the fugitive pirate he had been glad of the opportunity to go. 7 ; After the departure of the pirate from his room that night, Merton Regnier paced to and fro in deep thought. J He was a man that bad never before met his match, and he felt that he had been coolly rob- bed by one whom he did not dare refuse. Having been worsted, he was determined upon revenge, and with one knowing who he really was, he was anxious to get rid of that one, He never allowed his most intimate compan- ion to know him as he was, for he kept his own secrets, and he made up his mind to discover in the morning all about the handsome blonde sai- lor calling himself Doctor Carlton, and who knew so much about him, ‘TI shall put spies upon his every movement,” he said, to himself, and, with thi3 intention Le sought his couch to sleep, At his usual hour he awoke and went down to breakfast. At the office he asked if Doctor Carlton was yet uP, and, to his dismay the answer was: ‘The doctor departed hours ago, sir.” _ ‘* Not gone?” ad Se ic ane sir,” ut when and where?” , ‘He took the early stage for Philadelphia, sir.” Colonel Regnier hastened out without his breakfast, and returned in an hour with a satis- fied look, for he had dispatched a couple of de-
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eo tectives in a private conveyance to follow the stage and dog the steps of Doctor Carlton. But'the next day they returned with the in- formation that Doctor Carlton had not gone in the stage as they had discovered upon overtak- ing it, and the driver said he had entered it at the hotel, and left it at the ferry. More they could not ascertain, and Colonel Regnier was forced to put his own secret service men to find out what had become of the mys- | terious man. In the mean time the fugitive pirate had sus- pected he would be dogged by the man Marks, and so he took a seat in the Philadelphia stage, left it at the Jersey ferry, and sent his luggage to the shop of the Jew, Saul Seixas. Thither he soon after followed it. “Ah, mine fri’nt, does you vant to sell dose clothes again?” “No: but I wish to buy more, and to look up another disguise.” “That vas easy, mine fri’nt.” “ Well, get me a disguise equally as good as this; and then I ‘wish to talk to you about purchasing for me a schooner that is being fitted out at thé Government yards.” ‘Vell, I vas puy t’e vessels if you vas: tells me; but, if you vant a vessels pad, you’ gets him without t?e monish.” “How so, Jew?” “ Take him.” “Ah! you give good advice; but’ by the way, where am I to get a crew?” ‘“Dere vas von birate vessels that vas have some crew mans on poard.” “Ha! the Spitfire?” ‘'-Yesh, mine fri’nt.” ‘You are right, there are fully thirty-five fellows there, who are waiting trial for piracy. “They have been kept in the arsenal during the fitting. out of the schooner, and to-day were to be returned on board of her, as she is ready for sea; but the brig-of-war lies at anchor with the Spitfire under her guns, and she cannot be cut out,” -and Captain Carl hastily reviewed the situation as it was. ‘Mine frint, t’e prig-of-var could pe made to go avay.” ‘‘ By Jove you are right, Jew, she would run off if certain inducements I know of were offer- ed.” “That vas so, mine fri’nt.” ‘But, Jew, I need more men.” ‘That vas easy.” ‘You know how I can get them?” ‘¢-Yesh, I deals in mens.” ‘“-You buy men, and sell them, as you do old clothes?” ; “Yesh, mine fri’nt, I p’ys and sells every- ting.” “And you can get me some fine fellows?” 6¢-Yesh.” “ Sailors only.” so'Yesh,” ‘* Men not afraid to die.” “That ish vat you vants.” “‘ Say thirty.” *¢ Ash many as you bleases.” “When?” ‘¢ When you vant dem?” “ To-night.” ‘“‘T get dem ready.” ‘¢"You will want money?” “‘-Yesh,” “‘ Well, here is gold for you, and if you need more tel] me. “The less you rob me of, Jew, the more you will make out of me inthe end; but cheat me, and if I catch you, it ends our business to- ether.” ‘ “That vas so, mine fri’nt; put I don’t vas cheat you.” ‘Sea that you don’t, and now hunt me up that disguise, for I would like to go over to the Government yards.” “How vas army officer uniform do?” “It would do, I guess.” “It give you t’e entrance, if you say you vas a colonel and vants to look round t’e yards.” ‘You are right, so rig me up as a colonel.” The officer’s uniform was soon donned, and re- membering an army. major not unlike himself in appearance, and who he knew was stationed up on the Lakes with his regiment, Captain Carl assumed his name, and calling a ferry started for the Government ship yards. His uniform got him admission, and givin his name and supposed rank, he asked to loo around the yards, and especially had he curiosi- ty to see the captured eee craft, for he said he had know Car] Casandra well in their boyhood an naval lieutenant escorted him about the yards, and then on board the Spitfire, The .Sea Raider, ‘She seems in perfect trim,” said the pirate. ‘She is; sir, and ready ‘to sail at any minute.” ** Indeed !” ‘Yes, sir, she only waits the coming of her officers and crew.” ** When are they expected?” ‘* By to-morrow night, I think.” ‘* Who is to command her?” ome Lieutenant Burton Beverly, a dashing young olucer, ** He brings his crew with him?” ‘“Ves, sir, they are detached from a line-cf- battle ship in the Potomac.” ‘Some fifty inen, I suppose?” ** About thirty, 1 believe, sir, she will have for the present.” ** And will she cruise south?” ‘She’ goes first to Baltimore, colonel, to de- liver’ up to a vessel-of-war there, the pirate prisoners now on board.” ‘¢ Are there many of these?” ‘Thirty-two, sir.” “T thank you, sir,” and inviting the communi- cative young officer to dine with him at his hotel the next day, the pretended army officer took his leaive. ““T have’ formed’ my plan of action, and ‘it must succeed; but first to get that brig-of-war Tornado out of the way.” So saying he went back to the Jew and said: “ Jew, I want/a bold fellow that I can trust to do some work for me.” ‘* Vesh.” ‘* Do you know such a man?” *“*Yesh, I knows him.” ‘Then send him here at once.” ‘¢You go in here, mine fri’nt, for it vas my brivate office, and I cooms pack pretty quick. ‘Here, Manuel, you vas look after t’e store for me.” So saying the Jew ushered Captain Carl into a private room, that was by no means in keep- ing with the surroundings of the shop, for it was comfortably, almost luxuriously furnished. Motioning him to a chair, and placing a de- canter and glass by him, the Jew departed, but soon returned, accompanied by a man in sailor garb, and witha bold, shrewd face. ‘* Dis’ mans, mine fri’nt, vas te Mans you vants,” said the Jew. ** Sit down, my man, and tell me if you are afraid to go on a dangerous errand.” “T am not afraid to do anything, sir, if it pays well,” was the response. “Well, it shall pay you handsomely, but you will take big risks,” am I have taken chances with death all through ife. ‘* Well, I want you to go and get you a small cote boat. ‘Then toward dark sail up the East river to the brig-of-war Tornado, at anchor off the Gov- ernment yards.” “*T know where she lies.” “Board her, and tell her captain that you know where the pirate Carl is hiding. “Tell him that he is with a band of smugglers known as the Hawks of the Hook, and you can lead him to their secret retreat.” ‘** But I cannot.” “That matters not, only tell him so, and when you land, with a party from the brig, make your escape in some way, and leave them to find their way back as best they can.” S66) sir.” ‘* You understand just what I say?” gl CG Fe “‘ And what I wish you to do?” “Yes, sir.” “You will undertake it?” **T will, sir.” ‘Name your price?” ‘Two hundred dollars.” : “Here is a hundred down, and the Jew wil give you. the balance when you have accom- plished your work, ‘Keep him posted of your movements, and if you wish to see service in the future I will give you a berth.” **T do, sir, wish to see service, for it is dull work hanging around the towns.” “ All right, my man, so get your boat and be at the brig on time,” “Tl not fail you,” said the man, and he left the room, the Jew reappearing soon after. ‘‘ Have you got the men, Jew?” ‘*-Yesh, captain—thirty-three men, all goot,” ‘¢ Well, I will need them soon after dark to- night, and they must all be well armed with cut- lasses and pistols,” ‘‘T sells them t’e weepons, mine fri’nt,” “ All right, and see that you have them ready, and I want no drunkards in the party, a (Be A re ‘*Now I will need a couple of boats, some navy uniforms, and one for myself.” ‘* You shall have all t’e t’ings, mine fri’nt.” “See that I do, Jew, for I shall return by: nightfall,” and the pirate left the store of Saul Seixas, who was congratulating himself on bav- ing met a man so liberal with his gold as was the stranger, whom he had accidentally come ~~ through his coming into his dingy little shop. CHAPTER XIV. CUT OUT. WATCHING how matters were going, Captain ' Carl congratulated himself upon the way his piene were working, when he saw a small sail- oat from the lower’ bay run up near the Tor- nado, and, after being hailed, go alongside. Its occupant was the sailor whom he had em- ployed for the duty of sending the brig-of-war off on a wild goose-chase;'and'it was but a short while before the pirate saw that the bait was taken, for the vessel soon’ showed'a scene of busy movement, her sails were set, her anchor run up, and away she’ started twpon her trip down to the place where the strange seaman had told Captain Gray he could capture for him Carl the. Corsair; along with'a band of smug- lers who were known as the Hawks of the ook, This daring band of outlaws moved in such a mysterious way, in all their actions, that large rewards ‘wére offered for the capture of each one of them, dead or alive, and yet all the vigi~ lance of the Harbor Guard’ boats, and the cruis-~ ers, had never ‘brought in a single member of the Hawks of the Hook as a ‘prisoner. Some said they were actually pirates, others, that they were only smugglers, while some as-- serted that they were both. To find a man willing to betray them was’ a! wonderful thing, and Captain Gray lost no time in getting his vessel under way. aving, by his clever ruse, gotten the Tor— nado out of the way, Captain Carl waited at the: rendezvous for the coming of his crew, and as he stood’ on a deserted’ pier, the Jew suddenly approached. ‘Oh, Jew, it is you, is it? ‘You move as'softly as a cat, but you should. never approach a’ hunted man as you did, for your life might be the forfeit,” and Captain Carl took his hand off of his pistol. where he had placedit, when the Jew touched him on the arm. ‘* Mine gracious jimminy! you vas scared me’ wid your words, mine fri’nt, and I don’t vas. forget any more; but t’e poats ish ready.” “ And the men?” ‘¢ Vas ready, too.” ‘*Good! where are they?” “Te poats?” “c Yes.” ‘In t’e vater mit t’e dock yonder.” *¢ And the men?” **Tn t’e poats.” * Are they in uniform?” ‘“ They vas.” “ And armed?” ‘*Mine gracious! put tey vas armed, mine fri’nt.” ‘¢ Now let me put on my rig and be off.” 6 That vas so,” and the Jew led the way to his: shop. , In a short while Captain Carl came out in the dress of a lieutenant of the navy, and walked down to the deserted pier with the Jew. There were two boats there, and they contain— ed some thirty men, attired in sailor garb. “Sailor mens, t’is gentlemans vas your cap~ tains, vat I tell you apout,” said the Jew, by way of introduction, “A good-evening to you, lads; and I have no doubt but that we will sail together leasantly- in company,” said Captain Carl, in his frank, easy way, in which he always addressed a sea- man. To a man they saluted politely, while one of their number answered: — ‘Tt will be our fault, sir, if we do not, when we have such a pleasant captain. * Ah! my fine fellow, you seem to have been kissing the Blerney stone, so treat your ship- mates when you get the chance,” And Captain Carl tossed the man a purse heavy with gold. : A murmur of approbation arose from the men at this generous act of their new com- mander, and it Was very easy to see that they were more than pleased with him. ‘* Now, lads, give way! “Jew, we will meet again, and soon, I hope: so be on the lookout for news from me. “Give way!
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The Sea Raider. th - And Captain Carl, who had taken his seat in the stern of the largest of the two boats, issued the order in a tone that told the men he had seen salt water before. Away from the pier, leaving the Jew stanling there gazing after them, the boats went, and when well out upon the river, the pirate called the smaller ‘one alongside. ‘** Men, I shipped you for hot work and good y “ There is a craft over here that I have taken a fancy to; and I am going to get it, and you are to aid me. ‘*She is fitted out for a long cruise, is armed and well equipped, and she is fleet as the wind, as’ I know, and as stanch as a line-of-battle ship. Pin her hold, held as prisoner, are a score and a half of gallant fellows, and I desire to set them free, after which I shall start on a cruise. ‘** Now you know my plans, and if there is any one of you who does not wish to go with me, let him speak now, and 1 will set him ashore, for I neither want an unwilling hand, or a coward! “Who speaks?” Not a word was uttered against the expedi- tion, and after waiting a moment, Captain Carl said: i *“* Men, I feel that I can depend upon ‘you. “Give! way!” Again the boats moved on their way, and they were headed for the Government yards upon the Brooklyn shore. As the boats neared’ the schooner, which was now anchored out in a cove, half'a cable’s length from the shore, lights were visible on board, and a voice was heard, singing some pretty sea mel- y. “Schooner ahoy!” suddenly hailed ‘Captain Carl, when he saw their approach had not been noticed, The song ceased suddenly, and then came the answer, in somewhat boyish’tones: ** Ahoy, those boats!” ‘*Can I ask where the brig-of-war Tornado is lying?’ asked’ Captain Carl.’ ‘She has gone down the harbor'in search’ of bloody’ pirates. «| ‘“Who are you?” ~The party’ ‘of Lieutenant’ Beverly, from Washington, and intended for the schooner-of- war Spitfire.” |! ‘*Oho!’ you are headed just right, for this is the craft. __ “* Come alongside!” “* Ay, ay, sir,” answered the pirate, and in another moment the two boats were alongside of the schooner, and springing on board, Captain Carl was followed by his men and greeted by a young middy, who was officer in charge. ’ “Ts this Lieutenant Beverly?” he asked, salut- ing. ** No, sir, I am Lieutenant Carlton, in com- mand at present, as Lieutenant Beverly remains to-night in the’'city, but sent me over with the men,’ *T am glad to welcome you, Lieutenant Carl- ton, and congratulate you upon the craft you are to sail in, for she’s a dandy. ““I suppose now you will relieve me from duty?” ‘Yes, sir, and your men. ‘How many have you on board?” . Only a dozen, sir.” “re Yes. i bead to the prisoners, I suppose?” “Very well, sir, I will take command now.” “Then I will let the men go ashore in your boats, and—’ “Yes, let them return them to the Fulton street dock where we got them, and will you see to it? “Yes, sir, and be glad to get over to i dven if it is late for tho theater, csr ‘© [P}] let some of the men land at the yard, with the kits of all, while I puta crew in the boats to take them back,” and anxious to get off duty, the middy uickly called his men togeth- er, turned the schooner over ca su naval officer, = Ay! on pulling away to- ward ork 5 ‘ ‘ on cil his amazement, to suddenly dis¢over the schooner flying out of the cove un- der full sail, and heading up the East river to- ward Long island Sound. — CHAPTER XV. ON THE PIRATES’ TRACK. “Tre man whom Captain Carl had engaged to, deceive the commander of the Tornado; an work well, for he piloted: the brig to am anchor- | age under the shadows of the Highlands of avesink, and there the boats were lowered and manned. The pirate’s hireling went in the leading boat with Captain Gray, and he led toward a landing on the Horseshoe, ‘*Do you’ mean’ to’ say that the: smugglers have their hiding-plice here on this part ct the Hook?” asked Captaia Gray, as thé boats ground- ed‘on the beach. ‘* Yes, sir, andi cnly' the most experienced guide could find the way through this:dense un- dergrowth,” was the answer. As the men all landed, the pretended guide said: ‘* Now, captain, if you'll let your men halt here, and look to their arms, I will see just where the path is that we are to follow, for it is notfar away.” The captain made no objection, and the man | glided away in the darkness. Hardly had he disappeared, when Captain Gray said: ‘* By Jove! I should ‘have sent) a couple of men with the fellow, for somehow.I do not trust him. ‘* Ho, my man!” he called out. But no answer came, and Captain Gray did not care to risk calling out louder, Then they waited, at first patiently, then with impatience, and at last, after two hours had passed and the man did not return, it dawned upon them all that’ they had been. deceived, for some reason, yet why no one could guess. So back to the brig they went, an angry party indeed, and the anchor was quickly gotten up and sail set. Up the harbor went the Tornado ata ten-knot pace, through the Narrows, just as the sun was rising around Governor's Island, and up to her anchorage off the Government yards. As she luffed sharp, to drop anchor, a boat put out from the shore. It contained six oarsmen and the midship- man, who had been in charge of the Spitfire. Signaling the brig in’ haste, Captain Gray did not give the order to let the’ anchor fall, but waited for the middy to board. He seemed very much excited, and told his story just as it had occirred, ‘** And are you sure it was not Beverly’s party, sir, who started at once in the schooner on some secret service?” ‘“No, captain, for Lieutenant Beverly, and his crew just arrived at the yards, and went to report to the commandant, while I seeing the brig at once boarded you.” ‘By the Lord Harry! but that is why I was led off by that rascal last night.” ‘He got tae brig cleverly out of the way, so that the schooner could get away. “Tt was a most daring scheme, and the Spit- fire is again in the hands of her former com- mander, ‘“ Now to see Beverly, and find out just what we can do to retake the schooner,” pat Captain Gray hastily rowed ashore with the middy, who was delighted to discover that he was not cen- sured in the matter. As they landed they met Lieutenant Beverly and the yard commandant, who had just heard of the return of the Tornado. Burton Beverly was indeed a splendid speci- men of manhood, and his manners were almost womanly in their gentleness, though his voice had the ring of a man born to command, and his face indicated courage and resolution in a marked degree. ““Well, captain, it seems I am stranded, as my schooner has been'run off with most clever- ly,” he said. «Yes, most daring and clever indeed, was that act of Carl the Corsair.” ‘* Tt was he then, you think?” ‘Certainly, for it is just like the man.” “Yes,” said the commandant, ‘‘and I am confident that it was he who visited the schooner, and, pretending to be anarmy officer, was shown all over the craft. ‘*He got his points, and then acted boldly and successfully.” p ‘And T shall give chase at once; but I wish we could get a vessel for Beverly.” ‘We can, for the new schooner is about ready, though the guns are not‘mounted; butI can give him additional men, store her at once and he can momat his guns and put things to rights as € sails, “The very idea, commandant, and I will go down the harbor and’ dut’to sea, following the Long Island coast around until I meet Lieuten- ant Beverly off’ Montauk. » ee “He can take the-sound down, putting into cértain retreats where the pirate might hide, Se a 46). 3 and join me at Montauk, when we can compare: notes, if neither of us have seen him, and thcm decideas to our future cruise in search of the rascal,” This plan was adopted, and Lieutenant Bever- ly is men went at once on bourd of the new vessel, It was a schooner of a hundred and sixty tons,. built for speed and at the same time a heavy armament, Her sails had been bent on but the day before, and her paint was yet fresh, and it was not sup- posed that she would be ready for sea for a week or more. But the young lieutenant got his crew to work with a will, the guns were mounted, the ammu- nition placed in ‘the magazine, the stores throv. n on the deck, and the fine craft hauled out inte the river before sunset. Her sails were aban but did not fit, and yet the! vessel went along ata lively pace, while: each piece of canvas was taken in hand by the: sail-makers, and fitted in its turn, The stores were being putin: place ‘by others of the crew, the guns were ‘made fast in their® places, the officers drilled some of the men in their duties, and the whole deck was a scene of busy animation. ‘“She is a beauty, certainly, and sails like a: witch. ‘¢Give us two days and I will not fear to meet her superior in guns and men,” said Lieutenant Beverly as’ he gazed in ‘admiration upon bis beautiful vessel. It was dark when the schooner glided into the waters of the sound, and though by far not in trim, had Captain Carl come upon her, he would, have Yound her a dangerous foe. Coming ¢losé inshore, now and then running; into a cove, or inlet, the» schooner held. on; down the shore, and at dawn was many miles. on her way. ) During the afternoon she stood in toward Sag- Harbor, and saw a'small coaster coming out, Hailing the craft, the lieutenant asked if aught had been seen of an armed schooner in: those waters, while he made known the fact that Captain Car] had cut out his vessel and es-- caped. ** No schooner has been ‘seen, sir, such as you describe; but is that not the new schooner’ Vidette?’ called out a: clear voice. ‘Ay, ay, it is.” “May I ask who is in command?” ‘‘T am, Burton Beverly, lieutenant ccmmand~ ing.” ‘*Tam Midshipman Duncan Dare, sir, and I was just going up to the city on this packet tor report to you, sir.” ‘ Ay, ay, Mr. Dare, I am most: glad to wel come you, for I have heard of you.. “Lower away a boat there, and bring Mid- shipman Dare on board,” ordered Burton Bever-- ly, and ten minutes after the young middyy grasped the hand of his commander. ‘*Mr. Dare, meeting you in this way is a god- send to me, for I have been congratulating my- self upon having you for a junior officer, ever since I heard you were ordered to join me, and! I regretted it when Captain Gray said he hadi given you leave to run down home and see your mother, whom that wretch Carl the Corsair: had burned out of house and home.” : ‘““ He did, sir; but mother is plucky, and she is already rebuilding her home; but you say that Captain Carl has escaped?” “He most certain M has” and Lieutenant: Beverly told the lad all that had happened. ‘*T can help you on this island coast, sir. for ] know just where a vessel can and cannot find a hiding-place; but my idea is that Captain Car} has not stopped here, but has gone at once to the Chesapeake, to carry out some more of his devil- try,” and Duncan Dare told the story of Kate Kenyon’s unfortunate love for the pirate, ‘Well, we join the Tornado off Montauk, and, if Captain Gray has not caught the rascal, and we do not, I will take your view of the matter, Mr. Dare, and sail at. once for the Chesapeake, for that lovely young lady you speak of must not again fall into his clutches.” So down to Montauk the schooner went. and soon after the Tornado was sighted, and the two dropped anchor in Big Pond, and Captain Gray boarded the Vidette for a consultation, for he wished to see into what trim Lieutenant Beverly had gotten his craft. He was both amazed and delighted to see Dun- can Dare on board, and said: ** Now, Beverly, you'll capture the pirate, for that lad will bring you luck, ‘“ But it is useless to ask’ if you have seen the Corsair?” ‘No, sir, nor heard of him) other than from a, et Penge
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i 12 fishing-smack that saw him pass down the “Sound under a tremendous pressure of canvas.” ‘“-Yes, and he gained the sea and robbed a brig in sight of Montauk, and this was yester- day evening. “I just parted with the brig when I saw your sail, and her skipper and his crew wereso fright- , ened that they donot know which way he went after robbing them, but they think he sailed southward.” “That chimes in with your idea, Dare, so south we go on his track,” and Lieutenant Bev- erly made known what Duncan Dare had told him about the pirate. ** You are right, Duncan, my lad, for if there is a woman in the case, then look for the man, be he pirate or priest, and you'll find him in the Chesapeake. ‘*T only wish I could go with you, but my duties will keep me in the neighborhood of New York. ‘‘Now, I will not detain you, for you must lose no time in following in the wake of Captain Carl the Corsair, as his craft leaves a ripple tinged with red.” arewells were said, and a few minutes after the brig and the schooner were bowling merrily -along, the former on her return to New York, the latter heading for Chesapeake Bay, and it was with delight that the officers and crew of the Vidette saw that they readily outsailed the fleet Tornado. CHAPTER XVI. A PIRATE’S BRIDE. THE scene again changes to the shores of the “Chesapeake, some ten days after the flight of the pirate schooner down Long Island Sound. It is evening, just at sunset, and standing upon the cliff near Castle Kenyon mansion is Kate Kenyon. Her face still wears its look of sadness, and her eyes are turned upon a distant sail coming up the bay at a brisk rate, for the wind is freshening with the going down of the sun. The rays of sunlight falling upon the sails, give to them a rosy tint that is very beautiful, and the maiden seems to enjoy the beauty of the scene. The vessel is too far off, and coming head on, for her to make out just what she is, but she can see that she sails well, and stands up well under the brisk breeze. As twilight comes the vessel fades from view, and the maiden turns her steps toward the man- sion. Lights flash from the windows before she reaches the broad steps of the piazza, and she -slowly enters, while a negro servant meeting Jher, says: ‘‘ Supper is ready, Missy Kate,” With asigh Kate Kenyon enters the dining- ‘room, but somehow the tempting repast set out before her does not tempt her appetite, and after a cup of tea and nibbling at a biscuit she leaves the table. ‘“‘T do wish father could be more at home now, and that brother King would return from Eng- jand, for it is so lonesome here,” she murmured, “as she again went out upon the piazza. It was starlight now, and dark, yet her eyes could soon take in the grounds about ber and the waters of the bay. : ‘‘ The vessel must be nearly opposite by this time, and I will go and see, for she looked to me like a vessel-of-war, and may be the schoon- er that that brave middy was to sail in. “A visit from him now would cheer me up, for he is a man in experience, if a boy im years.” Going into the hall she took up a shawl and throwing it about her shoulders, walked rapidly away toward the cliff. She glanced down the bay, but her eyes fell upon no sail in sight. Then she looked up the bay, and still no ves- sel caught her eye. ‘‘ How strange, for fast as she was sailing, she could not have gotten out of sight in this time,” she said. Then she took another position upon the cliff, and narrowly searched the waters. Still no sail was in sight. Looking down into the little harbor, she saw ‘there only the pleasure craft belonging to the “mansion. “‘ Well, this is strange, for the craft has dis- appeared as mysteriously as though she were a eheeriicat. r ‘‘T will call up the boatman and ask him if -he saw her pass. : “Tf not, she certainly put about and went «lown the bay again.” As she gave another look out over the waters The Sea Raider. she turned, tosuddenly behold that she was not alone. With a moan she sunk down upon the ground, her limbs refusing to hold her weight; but, with a great effort she kept herself from swooning, and cried: ‘**Ts it you, Carl Casandra, cp ae ghost?” It was Captain Carl who stood before her, and the moon, just rising above the waters of the bay, fell full upon him. 6 wore a new uniform, his arms were folded upon his broad breast, and he looked strangely handsome ashe stood there in the light of the rising moon, ‘‘Tam in the flesh, Kate, not the spirit,” he answered. ‘*Great God! I believed you dead,” she gasp- ed. ‘* And doubtless hoped so; but no, I am alive, well, the commander of my old vessel, which the United States Government most generous] fitted out for me, and I am more in love wit you than ever.” ‘Silence! do not dare tell me of your love, sir! ‘* Ah Kate, I cannot but love you, and I can- not but tell you of it.” ‘** So you escaped death, after all?” ‘*Yos, those whom Satan loves are hard to kill, I have found. ‘*T escaped, dealt my first blow of revenge upon that youth—” ‘* Ha! have you killed him?” ‘*T am sorry to say I have not; but I burned his house, and seeking flight, after sundry close calls for death, managed to reach New York city, where Igot a crewand cut out my own vessel, ‘*Now, Kate, I have come to offer you terms.” ‘** Terms?” : ‘Yes, for I am determined, if you do not be my loving bride, no other man shall claim you.” ** What can you mean, Carl Casandra?” ‘Simply that I am willing to leave you with- in the hour, if you agree to what I demand.” ‘* And that is?” ‘*That I pledge myself to at once sail from here, leaving you behind, if you will become my wife.” **No! no! no!” ‘*T have a priest on my vessel, which lies be- hind the point yonder, and he will unite us. ‘*T stopped at a small hamlet and got him to come with me for this purpose. ‘“*Tf you marry me, P wit sail at once, return- ing to my vessel with the priest; but if you re- fuse you shall go with me as a captive. ‘“* Now you have your choice.” ‘*But why should I buy my freedom from captivity at such a price from your hands, Car] Casandra?” “That, as my wife, I have my revenge, for you can then not marry another.” ‘“ Ah! you little think how I shun the thought of matrimony.” ‘¢ Will you do as I ask?” “cc No.” ‘* Be warned.” **T will not commit so great a sin.” ‘¢ Well, you shall go as my captive.” *¢ Never!” As she spoke, she suddenly turned and bound- ed toward the cliff, But he had anticipated just such an act, and he caught her in his strong arms before she could take the fatal leap. ‘* Ah, Kate, I have saved your life,” he said, as he clung to her. ‘Better that I had died, than be saved by you.” ‘* No, no, there is no escape for you, aS a call will bring my men, and, if you give an alarm by a scream, I shall simply put your home in ashes, and shoot down your slaves ruthlessly.” ** Monster !” ‘*Call me names, my_pretty Kate, only re- member that I mean all I say.” ‘* Kill me, I beg of you!” she cried, with pite- ous supplication. ‘““No. I will make you my wife, instead. ‘Do you marry me, and remain here, the secret known to you, the priest and myself, or do you wish to go as my captive, until you are forced to come to my terms?” She was silent a moment, and then said in a firm voice: ** Call your priest, and I will marry you.” He gave a shrill whistle, and soon after a form was seen approaching the cliff. It was a priest, in his robes, He came slowly along, and the moonlight fell upon his grav locks and benign face. ‘“* Father, this is the lady of whom I spoke, nn ES SSS aS th and she is willing to have you now perform the ceremony that makes her my wife. ‘Miss Kenyon, this is Father Roland, a priest of the Catholic church.” Kate bowed in silence. She seemed to be about to appeal to the priest, but then the burn- ing of her home and the murdering of her faith- ful slaves arose before her, and she knew the re- venge of the pirate would be bitter indeed. So she said nothing, and the priest remarked: ‘*T am sorry, my daughter, that there seems a necessity for this clandestite marriage; but then, this gentleman assures me that he loves you, and that the barriers to your union are such that he cannot do otherwise than make you his wife secretly, ‘*May I ask if it is your wish to be united in the bonds of matrimony with this naval officer, Captain Carlton?” Kate saw how her pirate lover had deluded the good priest by implying that he was an offi- cer of the navy, and yet she could utter no word against the sacrifice she was making. So she said, in a low tone: ** Tt is.” “Then I can do nothing else than unite you as man and wife.” And the priest took out his book, turned so that the moonlight fell full upon it, and joining the hands of the two, repeated the marriage ceremony. The pirate answered clear and full, but the responses of Kate were hardly audible. Then, when the last words were uttered, she snatched her hand away from the grasp of Carl Casandra, and fairly tottered away. Instantly he sprung after her. **Go! I have kept my word. ““Go! or I betray you to the priest!” she said, huskily. ¢ He spoke a few words in a low tone, which she did not hear, and returning to the priest, said: ‘“ Well, father, we will return to the vessel now, and you shall be landed before dawn at your home, as I promised; and you will not go empty-handed, either.” ‘“The lady seems to bear some deep distress, son.” ‘ Yes, father; but I cannot tell you all now, though some day you may hear what this mid- night marriage means. “*Only keep it secret until you have my per- mission to tell.” “ Certainly, my son, though I must re cord it.” ‘*Of course.” And they walked on in silence down the path, circled the shore of the cove, and crossing the point of land, came to a boat awaiting them. Into this they got, and were rowed out to the Spitfire, which at once got up anchor and sped back down the bay; while poor Kate, returning to the cliff, watched her departure with a heart that was full of anguish, as she murmured over and over again: ““ My God! Iam a pirate’s wife !” CHAPTER XVII. A CUTLASS COMBAT. AFTER running out of the Sound, Captain Carl began at once his piracies upon the high seas, and ordering his lieutenant, Lennox—who had been rescued with the pirate prisoners on board the schooner—to head for the Chesapeake, he at the same time gave orders to bring-to every vessel in their course, This delayed the Spitfire on her way, so that by night she was passed by the Vidette unseen, and the vessel-of-war entered the Chesapeake ahead of her enemy, Strict inquiry from al the fishermen and coasters convinced Lieutenant Beverly that the Spitfire had not yet passed up the Chesapeake; but he relied on Duncan Dare’s idea, that he would do so, and did not despair, a8 he knew ieee might arise many reasons for the pirate’s delay. At last it was decided to run up to Baltimore and make a search, and on the return Duncan wished to land and tell Kate Kenyon that her outlaw lover was not dead, as believed, but again afloat in his dangerous vessel, and warn her to be on the watch for a visit from him. That night, as the Vidette was cruising slowly up the bay, under shortened canvas, the look- out’s voice sung out from aloft; “Sail ho!” # ‘Tt is the schooner!” cried Duncan Dare, the moment he Jeveled his glass upon a vessel that just then shot out from behind a bold cliff-like point jutting into the bay. ; “Are you sure, Dare?” asked Lieutenant Beverly.
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“T am, sir; it is the pirate schooner Spit re. ‘* Ah! he sees us, and is starting to fly, for his sailor’s eyes tell him we are armed. Instantly all was excitement upon the Vidette the drum beat to quarters, the craft was covered with sail, and she sped away in chase of the pi- rate, who was neraie a mile ahead. The Spitfire also became overshadowed with canvas, and, as she started up the bay in flight, suddenly from her stern guns belched red flame and iron shot came flying over the Vidette. “* At those bow guns there!” shouted Lieuten- ant Beverly. ** Ay, ay, sir!” : ‘‘ Aim well, and let yonder pirate feel the weight of your metal!” ‘“* Ay, ay, sir,” came the cheery response, and at once the combat raged sharp and fierce be- tween the two vessels. Steadily however, though slowly, the Vidette gained, and it became a question of time only, when she would overhaul the Spitfire, unless the fire of the pirate damaged her in some way. The firing from both vessels was well aimed, and each gave and received wounds, while now and then a brave tar would fal] dead, and an- other sink down wounded upon the deck. League after league was thus passed over in flight and pursu‘t, and toward dawn the cliff near Castle Kenyon loomed in sight. Straight toward it, as though for shelter, the Spitfire ran, and luffed up sharp, when near, so that the tide drifted her against the steep wall of earth, Instantly the pirate broke other ports in his cabelas and ran his port guns to starboard, | turning Vidette. With Duncan Dare at the helm, for he alone knew the channel to run in to the cliff, the Vidette pushed boldly forward under the scath- ing fire of the pirate. “Pll run in, sir, luff sharp and lay her along- cide, so we can board,” said Duncan Dare. “Ay, ay, my brave lad, and we'll carry her with the cutlass,” answered Lieutenant Beverly. It was evident that the pirates realized their desperate danger, and that only the most reck- less courage could save them. Many of their number lay dead upon the decks, their sails were shot almost to ribbons, and their only chance was to triumph or die. The Vidette also had suffered heavy losses, but her sails and spars were in better condition than were the pirate’s, while her bulwarks were badly torn with shot, shell and canister. As she lay against the cliff, the long yard of the Spitfire was jammed into theearthen wall, a foot only from the summit, and, as the pirates had thrown out an anchor the schooner lay per- fectly quiet, careened a little to starboard by the weight of all her guns. These were kept firing rapidly at the approach- ing Vidette, for to cripple her was the only chance of Captain Carl, and he knew it but too well. Measuring his chances with cool eyes, Dun- can Dare headed the schooner off toward the Spitfire’s stern, and then suddenly brought her bows round at lightning speed. : As she shot forward, to range alongside, she received a staggering blow from the guns of the pirate; but it did not check her and the two ves- sels came together with a shock that threw their crews down. ** Boarders follow me!” cried Burton Beverly, and, while some men threw grapnels, the bal- ance sprung after their leader. In wild terror the pirates at once gave way, shouting for ero while Captain Carl, seeing that all was lost, bounded upon the lee bulwark and went up the ratlines at a rapid rate. Having laid_the schooner alongside her ene- my, Duncan Dare sprung forward and seized his cutlass to follow his heutenant on board the Spitfire. : ‘As he did so he caught sight of Captain Carl going up the ratlines on the port side. A glance showed his intentions, and with his cutlass in his teeth the youth fairly flew up the starboard ratlines. The pirate had reached the yard, and was rapidly walking it toward the cliff, when Duncan Dare was upon him. In self-defense and with a bitter oath, the chief turned and the blades of the man and the ed boy clashed, tt was a thrilling sight, and every eye was turned upon them, walt There, his hand above his head clinging to the stay, stood the pirate chief, while grasping a seve’ rope, hanging down from aloft, was Duncan Dare, the middy, and their cutlasses had met with a savage ring. is whole battery upon the coming ew = ea ee ’ Tat ma mm Maron te ered The Sea Raider. ‘“Now, Duncan Dare, dead to the deck you Bo, and [ have my revenge,” shouted Carl the Jorsair to the middy. As he spoke, he aa the attack, and with only the loose rope to support him, the midship- man had no chance to protect himself, and his sword was struck from his grasp; but before the pirate could follow up his advantage, the boy swung himself off from the yard, clinging to the rope end, and Captain Carl turned quick- ly and started for the cliff. But suddenly a form confronted him, standing on the edge of the cliff and barring his way. It was Kate Kenyon, and she held a pistol in her hand, leveled at the heart of the pirate. ‘* Now, Carl the Corsair, you are my prison- er!” she cried. The man beheld her father back on the cliff and with him half a hundred slaves, Flight in that direction was madness, and so he looked down upon the decks below, and then at the narrow strip of water between his vessel and the cliff. Instantly he made up his mind and with a ees went down like a rocket. cry arose from all who saw the act, and Burton Beverly sprung upon the bulwarks and peered down into the dark depths. But the water was lashed to foam and noth- ing was seen of the daring outlaw, *So let him perish!” he said. ‘“‘ Lower away boats and search for him, for I do not believe he is dead,” cried Duncan Dare, as he hastily descended from aloft. Boats were at once lowered, but no sight of the pirate could be had, and all at last came to the conclusion that he was dead, for 1t was said that there were numerous whirlpools and eddies at the jase of the cliff to draw him down to death. CHAPTER XVIII. AFTER THE COMBAT. ‘‘Miss Kenyon, my friend and commander, Lieutenant Burton Beverly.” It was the introduction of Burton Beverly to Kate Kenyon, an hour after the desperate com- bat between the pirate and the schooner-of-war. Mr. Kenyon had gone down on board the ves- sels, grasped the hand of the boy most warmly and m presented to his commander and brother officers. ‘*T must insist upon you gentlemen being my guests, lieutenant, as long as 78 remain here and my negro carpenters and blacksmiths shall do all in their power to get your vessel in shape while I have any number of spars, sails and all that you may need.” Lieutenant Beverly thanked the planter most warmly for his kindness. It was his intention to make his way crippled as were both vessels, to Baltimore, and then re- fit yey But when he went upon the hill and met Kate Kenyon, after Duncan Dare had presented him to the maiden, he seemed suddenly to change his mind and the result was that he told the planter he would repair damages there in the Castle Kenyon harbor. _ Toadvance the young middy, as much as lay in his power—for he looked upon his capture of the pirate as in a great degree owing to Duncan Dare, whose advice he had followed, and who had so skillfully handled the schooner during the action—Lieutenant Beverly made out his re- port of the whole cruise, from the start to the capture, and sent Duncan Dare with it to Wash- ington, the planter placing his carriage at the disposal of the youth. Duncan Dare was gone about a week, and re- ported that the country was ringing with the story of the desperate battle, capture of the Spitfire and death of the famous Captain Carl, the Corsair, while the President personally complimented to the middy Lieutenant Beverly and his officers ! “One thing is certain,” thought the knowing middy upon his return, * and that is that Bur- ton Beverly, my respected commander is most desperately in love with Kate Kenyon, and I don’t blame him either, for, if I was older, and if Jessie was not around, I’d love her myself. ‘Miss Kate says she never intends to marry, but somehow I believe Lieutenant Beverly can make her change her mind. : “Well, we'll see,” and the middy went down to look after the two schooners, for he had just returned from Washington when he made the discovery regarding the lieutenant being in ove, He found the two vessels in perfect trim. The shot-marks had been filled in, the splin- tered spars replaced by new, the grape-torn decks had been smoothed over, the rigging mend- ed, and the sails so neatly patched that the- patches were hardly visible. The wounded men were camping under can-- vas. tents upon the shore, the prisoners were con-- fined in the hold of the Vidette, and the dead had been buried over on the wooded point. At last the hour of sailing came, farewells were spoken, and the two schooners stood out of the little haven and headed down the Chesa- egy their destination being New York har- or Duncan Dare was commanding the prize, and in a spirit of rivalry the two beautiful schooners: started on a trial of speed. All sail was spread upon both, and they forg- ed swiftly through the waters, neither seeming to be able to shake the other off. One night, as Duncan Dare sat alone in his cabin, his eyes suddenly rested upon one of the braces of the roof which seemed slightly sprung. Rising, he stepped toward it, and reaching his; hand so as to touch it, he discovered that it ap- peared to be loose, Getting ee a chair, he made a discovery that caused him to give a low whistle. The brace was just like the other in appear- ance, only a part of it was open, swinging dowm like a lid, and making a secret box, or drawer within, some five inches wide and twenty in length. In it were a number of papers, a morocco box containing some jewels, ‘a few thousand dollars in gold and a map that seemed to be of some locality, and had been much used. The papers were of a nature that seemed te need a key to understand them, and some of: them had ring evidently upon the map. There were two letters among them, and they” were addressed to “CAPTAIN CARL, “Tn care of MARKS. ‘* Shipping Merchant, ‘** Baltimore, * No, 3 Basin, Maryland,” These letters were written in a bold hand, and one read: ‘‘Tf Mr, Marks guarantees Captain Carl, I am will- ing to do all in A power. “Let him get the password from Mr. Marks, and he will find that I am wholly at his service. “ FIREFLY. “ Chief of H. of H.” The other letter, written in the same hand, was dated some time after the first, and was as follows: “Sanpy Hook RETREAT. “To CapraiIn CARL THE CoRSAIR!— “Sim:—Your letter received, and the guarantee of merchant Marks beeen et : “T can supply ou with the men you desire, and they will all be first-class seamen. *"Run into the Horseshoe by night. send a mes- senger to my camp, and upon hisgiving the signal it will be answered, and he will be led to me. “He must seek the third cedar mound from the lightning-struck tree near the shore, before he gives he signal, which will be the hooting of an ow! three times “The password your man must give my sentinel will be Black Flag. and let this stand between us whenever you wish to communicate with me. ‘“* Destroy this letter when read. “T will have for you thirty-five men, ‘* FIREFLY, “Chief of H. of H.”’ ‘Well, I have found out a secret, and one I can use, I think, for Captain Carl did not de- stroy this letter, as requested by the writer.’ “Nov; to signal the Vidette, and have a little talk with Lieutenant Beverly,” and the boy commander went on deck to signal the Vidette, that Lieutenant Beverly might come on board the Spitfire and see the discovery he had made- in the secret receptacle of the pirate vessel. CHAPTER XIX. DUNCAN DARE’S DISCOVERY. Tue signal from on board the Spitfire, for: Lieutenant Beverly to come on board, somewhat startled that officer, and he had the schooner luffed sharp, a boat lowered and filled with armed men, and was pulling rapidly for the rize ina very few moments after the signaling had ceased. Lieutenant Beverly had also ordered the offi- cer left in charge of the Vidette to run down nearer the schooner, for as the pirate prisoners were on the Firefly, and Duncan Dare had not @ very large crew, he feared they might be at- tempting to seize the craft. He was greatly relieved, when coming near enouch to hail and ask: ‘What is it, Dare?” F ‘No trouble, sir, as I see you have imagined ; but I have made a slight discovery, and wished 1s
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j { 7 KM { “to consult you, and,:as there is something to <show you here, I asked. you to board, the Spit- fire, instead of my going to you.” ‘All right, 1 am here,” and Burton, Beverly sprung on board the Spitfire. ** Your schooner sails well, Dare, and I do not understand how it was we overhauled her as we _.did in the chase after her,” said the lieutenant. ¢ “J shifted her guns, sir, and it seemed to in- ‘erease her speed greatly, while the new spars we | put on her caused her sails to be enlarged, so that:she carries considerably more canvas,” “True, and she stands up well under it; but what is your discovery?’ and the two officers went together into the cabin. “Do you see anything wrong with that deck brace, sir?” ‘ ” ‘‘ Well I did, for it had not been tightly v¢losed. Tap it, sir!” ‘s Hollow, by Neptune’s, beard!” cried the ‘lieutenant as he struck it with his sword-hilt. “Yes, sir, there is a secret box there, and it is opened by pressing this little ornament, as -you see,” and to Duncan’s;touch the side of the race flew open, ‘Ah! a very ingenious- hiding-place for, the pirate to keep his small valuables; , but, it is vempty, as he had not been out long enough to get rich.” ‘No, sir, it was not empty, for I got, these -out of there,” and Duncan Dare showed the, pa- pers, the gold and the jewels.” ‘Ah! you have made a.good find, Dare. ‘‘ But are the papers of; any use?” “IT hope to: find them ‘so, sir;, at least, these ‘two letters are,” and, he read the letters signed by Firefly. ‘‘Now my idea. is, sir, that Captain Carl got his crew through some merchant in Baltimore, “Marks, whoever he may. be, and he secured them through this Firefly.” ‘* And who is he?” ‘You see hé dates one of his letters Sandy ‘Hook, and he signs himself H. of H.” ‘< Well, what does that. mean?” ‘There is a bold band of smugglers upon Sandy Hook, who are: known as the Hawks of the Hook, and I have heard that their chief is called Captain Firefly.” ‘¢T see, I see! you are unraveling the tangled skein, Duncan, my boy,’ so let-me' know more.” ‘© Well, sir,’ I believe, if you will permit me to do so, I can run into the Horseshoe, and find the third cedar mound he speaks of. _ * Ag for an owl I'can just:make one :of ‘those birds envious when they’ hear my hoot, for I used to frighten the chic Sind almost to death on the farm, and have had Dan up hours at a time, with his gun; blazing away into a tree to kill an owl, when I would be lying in my bed up-stairs and hooting for fun.” “But, Dunean, you would not’ go »there alone?’ “Yes, sir, alone to the mound to meet the sen- tinel, but have two-score good fellows. following ame; and we could give the,smugglers a grand surprise, capture some of them certainly, and get all their booty.” “Tt is worth ‘the risk,’ certainly, only ‘you take the greater chances, for all might not come out as you hope.” “TT tell you sir, what we might do?” “Well.” ‘“There are among the prisoners, some of Cap- tain Carl’s old crew, and | might select one from among. them, promising him his release; if he would lead us to the smugylers’ retreat.” A good idea, Duncan, so go ahead with it.” Duncan then descended to where the prisoners were confined, looked them over carefully and his eyes fell upon one young man whom he had before observed, and. who seemed out of place among that batid of cut-throats. “My man, how long have you served with Captain Carl?’he asked. “Since he'turned pirate, sir.” ‘Come with me, my. man, for I wish to: haye {a talk with you. ‘‘ Guard take his irons off.” The guard ‘obeyed, and the young pirate fol- lowed the midshipman upon deck and then into the cabin. -wHe saluted’ politely, as he. saw Lieutenant “Beverly, and then: stood) in an attitude of, re- |, sel ‘spectful attention. . vey . “Wells Dare, say what you would, and I.am with you,” said Lieutenant, Beverly,,as, he light- red a cigar, { “My man, you do not, look: like, one, who should be a pirate, for you hawean honest/face,” Dunean Dare began, with. the. air).ef, one wh wore thirty years upon his shoulders, ‘‘ | was brought up by an honest mother, sir, The Sea Raider. and when she died I sought my father, whom I had notseen for many years. ““T thought he was skipper of a coaster, sir, and that | would have a chance to see service at sea ; gler craft, aid he kept me with him, until he was killed some time ago. ‘Then I volunteered to go with Captain Carl, and it was my intention to leave him, in a foreign port and try and lead an honest life once more; but he would not allow me ashore when we landed, and when we were attacked I would not be coward enough to’ desert my shipmates, pirates though they are.” ** Such is my story, sir.” The young man spoke ina frank way, and it was evidently the truth that, he told, and Lieu- tenant Beverly said: ‘Are you willing to live an honest life now if you get the chance?” ‘““Gladly, sir.” “‘ Suppose you are offered a coxswain’s berth on my schooner, would you pledge yourself to serve, and not desert?” ‘““T would do so, sir, with pleasure, for m heart is not bad, and I am not a pirate throug my own will,” ‘Do you know a band of smugglers known as the Hawks of the Hook?” asked Duncan Dare. ‘* Yes, sir; they were the ones that my father belonged to.” ‘Their leader is called Captain Firefly?” ‘*-Yes,, sir,” ‘Do you know their haunts?” ‘* Yes, sir.’ “You could lead a party to their secret re- treat?” “t'Yes, sir; I ‘could.” * And you will?” ‘No, sir; I would not betray my shipmates, be they ever so evil,” was the,bold response. ‘“Suppose you.are offered full pardon, and a berth on a vessel-of-war, if you would?” _‘*T would not betray them, sir.” ‘You prefer to hang?’ said Lieutenat Bever- ‘A “T do not wish to be hanged, sir, for I am young, and the world is before me; but IT will not betray those who haye been my shipmates.” ‘Well, sir, you have the chance to do so, or to hang with them, so decide,” ““My mind is made up, sir,for I will hang rather than betray them.” Burton Beverly called Duncan Dare one side, “That youth is game, and I believe he would die before he betrayed them.” ‘*T feel that he, would, sir.” **T wish to save him, so I'll see what terms I ean make with him, and, if I find he does! not deceive. us, I will put him to work on one of the schooners,” Ratan to the cabin, the lieutenant contin- ued: ** What is ovr name, my man?” ‘ Carroll Carr is,my real name, sir; but the men call me Ratline.” ‘©Well, Carroll Carr, can you tell: me how many men Captain Firefly has in his band?” * Over a. bundred, sir.” ‘Ah! and all at his retreat?” ‘Oh, no, sir, for many are’ out upon the cruisers.” ‘* And how many cruisers has he?” ‘ Hive,”? ‘¢ All small vessels?” $C LY Cy SIL pt “ And will you tell me where their cruising- ground is?” “se No, sir.” ‘¢ Nor their rendezvous?” ..‘* No, sir, I can tell nothing.” * But you, know.” “Yes, sir.” “Do you suppose there are men among your band who are my prisoners, who would betray the secret?” “There are men, sir, whom gold, anda fear of death will cause to do anything.” ‘You are right, Carr; but I feel that you are not,one of these men, and, although T regret your stand, I can but admire you for it, so I “will show,my confidenee in you by letting you “go to work at once as a hand. on, board this Yyes- i i The young man looked anything, but pleased, and, be said;in an earnest way: ‘*T thank you, sir, for your kindness, and, I am most glad to accept your generous offer; but if I do, my. shipmates will at once say I am a traitor, and Edo not care to have them. think lll. of me, while it will. certainly look so, should you, raid the dén of the Hook Hawks, as you imply you will.” “But I found he was mate on board a smug- ‘““By Jove, you’ve got an old head on your young shoulders, my lad, and I will send you ack to your irons, until the day 1 turn my prisoners over for trial; then I will spare you,” “Oh! sir, I thank ‘you, and T will do all in my ba to prove I appreciate your kindness.” ** Ho, guard!” “* Ay ay, sir.” ‘Put this man in irons, and take him back among his comrades.” “Ay ay, sir,” answered the guard, and the young sailor was led back to his fellow pirates, while Duncan Dare said: ‘*Lieutenant Beverly, I will, lead the men against. the Hook Hawks, if you will allow me so to do, sir, and I believe I can reach them by following the directions in this letter.” “vou can take forty men, Dare,-and I will land and follow you with thirty more asa reserve, and Iam confident no smuggler band can de- feat seventy of our brave tars, ‘© Once we have them in our power, to capture their little fleet will not ke so difficult, for we will find traitors among them, when death is on one side, and gold on the other. “Now I will return on board the Vidette, and we will time curselves so as to run in about mid- night tothe Sandy Hook harbor, and no lights must be set on either vessel, for we must wholly suprise them.” CHAPTER XX. THE HAWKS OF THE HOOK, In the midst of the low point of’ land, known as Sandy Hook, stand to-day the ruins of what appear to have once been a fort. t is circular in form, half an acréin size, and its outer wall and summit is densely “overgrown with cedars oak and other trees, the branches of which are interlaced with’ vines‘ until an al- most impassable barrier is formed to an entrance into the interior. ° AoA The sea and winds drifted the sand up around an old wreck, Which ‘a terrible storm, over a century ago, had borne on an unustally high tide far over the beach. The sea alee 9 ovet, the winds’ howling about the wreck, had formed this’ barrier or wall of land, and trees taking root therein bad firmly grown, thus forming ‘a safe retreat within. ily ; The old ‘wreck served as a house, for its cecks had been boarded over, and dcors and windows had been cut in the sides of the hull, A single mast, rising to'the tops of the trees, served ‘as ‘a perch upon which a lookout cculd sit and view the sea, tip and' down the coast; ‘thé entrance to the lower ray of New York, and ‘the approaches to the Hook frem within’! ounted tipon broad wheels without the little fort. was a hoat some forty feet in length, very ji narrow, and cettainly a ‘thoreiigh sea cratt. j Tt was schooner rigged, with masts “of sirgle sticks, not very tall, but. with bceonis, gaffs and a bowsprit of ‘great length, which enabled her to carry a large spread of canvas. i . This was evidently done to prevent her masts from being seen over’ the tree+tops, and at’ the same time make her the more stiff in a blow. She was mounted, as I'said, upen wheels, and beneath the broad tires were laid beards, so that she could run down to. the beach as far as the tide came up. | From there she could be dragged into the sea, and a small life-boat near, containing a fcur- bladed anchor and cable, could be ‘teken out ahead, the hook let go, and by the rope’ abet her windlass she could be warped off-shore, even with the wind from the sea, So complete were all arrangements that the boat could have been run into the sea in’Jess than half an hour, and with as small a force as twenty men. Into this fort T wish the reader to accompany me, on a dark and blustering night several days after the visit of Lieutenant. Beyerly to the Spitfire, on the run home’ from the Chesapeake, In.the center of the old wreck is ‘a large ball, as it were, with tables set about ‘and bunks about the walls, Several ship-lanips’ give light, and’ some ‘two dozen men, are ranged about, playing cards, drinking and talking together. i) They were a wild set of fellows, armed. thor- oughly, and, without doubt, desperate men. | “Tads, touch that bottle lightly, for the boats should bein now at any moment, and we must have our wits about. us to get 'their cargoes off before dawn,” said a stout man with bearded face, and who was smoking a pipe. © «| “We'll be all. right : papa, never fear; but you don’t expect the Whole fleet in’ to-night?” asked one.. mn nd _ aa dha id a / + ) )
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| -_ ee ———— { ** Yes, for I arranged that they should meet at Barnegat, coming from below, and at South Bay coming from above, and time themselves so as to all get to the Hook together. ‘Then they can dump their pil as and get | out by dawn, and we can run the booty in here during the day.” **Cap’n, a lad here, sir, who gave the signal you had for Captain Carl,” said a man, appear- ing in the door. ** Ha! it was rumored that Carl was dead, but he is like a cat with nine lives; so he is all right, I am glad to know. ‘*Ho, lad, are you the messenger?’ and the smuggler leader turned his gaze upon Duncan Dare, who stood in the doorway. ‘* Yes, I am the messenger,” was the calm re- ly. Pt Well, sir, come here and let me hear what you have to say of yourself.” “‘T have to say, Captain Firefly, that you are my prisoner!” came the ringing response. ** Move and you die! Surrender all!” shouted Duncan Dare, and he leveled a pistol in one hand, while he drew his cutlass in the other. — But the smugglers were upon their feet, wild cries of alarm aes from their lips, and then into the hull cabin dashed through every door half a dozen gallant tars. Instantly a fierce combat was begun, the lamps were put out, smoke filled the place, and the flashes of. pistols alone illumined the scene. Holding the doors the men-of-war’s-men kept the smugglers at bay, and in the cabin, as they deemed, all of them, But Captain Firefly and a few made their. es- cape, and when at last the fight ended, and lights were brought, it was seen that but half the force was there. A companionway up to the deck showed the means of escape, and collecting his men, Duncan Dare was about to start in pursuit, when a ‘wounded smuggler called out: “You needn’t look for’ the Hawks, as they have gone.” > ‘But they cannot leave the Hook without boats so soon.” ** They’ve got a boat you'll never catch, young cap’n,” was the reply. ut of the fort dashed Duncan Dare, and there, just standing off from. the shore was the schooner already described. The time had come when the smugglers were to put her to good, service, and she had saved them, or at least one-half of their number. She had been’ daily overlooked and kept in trim, she was stored ready for sea, and she had not failed them in dire need. But the capture of the secret retreat of the Hawks of the Hook was a great triumph, ‘for the booty in the old, wreck was very valuable, and besides a dozen dead and wounded as many prisoners had been taken, while, upon return- ing to the anchorage to report to Lieutenant Beverly his success, and ask him to pursue the schooner, Duncan Dare discovered that that officer had come upon the little outlaw fleet of five sloops, run one ashore, her crew escaping, sunk another, captured two, and the fifth had escaped. or tent This was glory enough for one night’s work, and the schooners ‘were brought to anchor in the Hook, with their prizes, and Duncan Dare was sent up to the commandant of the Government ard at New York to make the report of what ad been done, and the breaking up of the fleet and band of the Hawks of the Hook. CHAPTER XXI. CONCLUSION, So successful a pirate and smuggler hunter had Duncan Dare shown himself to be, that the Government allowed him to carry out a plan of his own, build a, small vessel, with what the prizes had brought bim, and go specially on the duty of breaking up the outlaw bands that in- fested the coast... His success in this line of duty won for him fame, honor, and riches, and yet, through all his wanderings he never forgot sweet Jessie Hampton his boyhood sweetheart, and hoped, when he grew. to man’s estate, that she would share with him his name and his triumphs. With the shadow upon her life of having been apirate’s bride, Kate Kenyon refused the love offered her of Burton Beverly, and thus brought sorrow, to his life, as, well as. her own, for she dearly loved the gallant young officer. With a lingering: fear in, her heart, caused. b words of her son, that her husband might sti be aliva, He widow Fie declined ‘the offer of Squire Hampton’s “eart and hand; and con- tinued to dwell a! ae in her elegant home, that arose on. the asues of “the old farni-house, sur- The Sea Raider. rounded only by her faithful servants, and with Dan as overseer, for he had recovered from the desperate wounds given him by Captain Carl. hus, kind reader, I ring down the curtain upon the scenes and character's of my romance. 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Sr ee es 61 Buckhorn Bil; or, The Red Rifle Team. By E GL Wheeler. | 62 The Shadow Ship. By Colonel Prentise Ingraham. G8 The Red Brotherhood. hy \W.J Hamilten. 64 Dandy Jack. By T C. Harban Ob Huerteane Bill. By Josepls } iger, Jr. 66 Single Hand ¢ or, A Life for a Li By W. J. Hamilton, 67 Patent-Leather Joe. By Philip S. Warne. 68 The Border Kobin Mood, By Buffalo Bill. 69 Gold Rifle the Sharpshooter. By Edward L. Wheeler 0 Old Zip’s Cabin, By Captain J. F « . Adwns 71 Delaware Dicky ibe Young Ranger Spy. By Ol] Coomes. 72 Mad Tom Western, the ‘Vexan Ranger. By W.J. Hamilton. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck. By Edward L. Wheeler. 74 HMawk-eye Marry, By Oil Coomes. 5 The Boy Duelist, By Colonel Prentiss Ing-nbam. & Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. By Albert W. Aiken, 7? Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. By E. L, Wheeler. S Blue Dick. By Captain Mayne Reid. 79 Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. By Albert W. Aiken. 80 Rosebud Rob. By Edward L. Wheeler. $1 Lightning Jo, By Cuptaind F.C Adams, S2 Kil HMarefoot the Wood-Hawk — By T. C. Harbaugh 88 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. By Ol! Coomes. 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner, By Edwsrd L. Wheeler. 85 Buck Buckram. By Captain J, F.C. Adams. Dandy Rock, the Man from Texis. By G. Waldo Brown. The Land Pirates, By Captain Mayne Reid. Photograph Phil, the Boy Sleuth. By EK. L. Wheeler, Island Jim, By the author of “ Juck Harkaway.” ‘The Drend Rider. By George \ aldo Browne. 1 The Captain of the Club. By B acebridge Hemyng. Canada Chet, the Counterfeiter Chief. By E. L. Wheeer. The Boy Miners, By EdwardS. Ellis. ~ M fdnighit “ack, the Road-Agent. By T.C. Harbaugh, The Rival Rovers, By Lieut. Col. Hazeltive. W atch-Eye, the Shadow. By Edward L. Wheeler The Outlaw Brothers, By John J. Marshall. Robin Hood, the Outlawed Earl. By Pref. Gildersleeve. 99 The Tiger of Tuos. By George Waldo frowne, 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville, By E. L. Wheeler. 101 Jack Harkaway in New York, ltrncebrilge Hemyng. 102 Dick Dend-Ey e By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, 108 The Lion of the Sea. By Colonel Delle Surn, fee. By Edward L. Wheeler, By Captain 1. Holines Old Frosty, the Guide. By T. C. Harbaugh. dne-Eyed Sim, By James L. Bowen, Daring Davy, the Young Bear-Killer. By H. St George. Deadwood Bick as Detective. By E. lL. Wheeler, The Black Steed of the Prairies, bv J. L, Bowen, The Sea-Devil. By Colonel Prev tiss Ligralam. The Mad Hunter. By Burton Saxe Jack Hoyle the Young Speculator, By F. 1.. Wheeler. The Black Schooner. By Roger Starbuck. The Mad Miner. By George Waldo Browne, The Hussar Captain, By Col. Prentiss I ..rabam, Gilt-Kdged Dick. By Edward L. Wheeler. WiH£IL! Somers the Bov D-tective. By Charles Morris, Muatang Sam ; or, The King of the Plains. By J. E. Badger. The Branded Wand. By Frank Dumont. Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. By E. lL. Wheeler. Phil Hardy, the Boss Boy. By Charles Morris. Kiowa Charley, the White Mustanger., By T.C. Harbaugh. Tivpy,. the Texan. By George Gleason. Bonanza Bill, Miner. By Edward L, Wheeler. Vicayune Pete. By Charles Morris Wild-Fire, the Boss of the Road. By Frank Dumont. The Voung Privateer. By H. Cavendish. Dendwood Dick’s Double. By Edward L. Wheeler. Detective Diek. By Charles Morris. The Golden Hand. By George Waldo Browne The Munted Hunter. By Edward §. Ellis. Wome Bob the King of the Bootblacks By E.L. Wheeler. Sure Shot Seth, By Ol! Coomes Carctain Paul By C. Dunning Clark Sight-lawk Kit. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. The Uelpless Hand, By Captain Mayne Reid. Bl nde Bill By Edward L. Wheeler. Sndge Lynch Jr. By T. C. Harbaugh. Rine Blazea, By Fronk Domont. S 1d Sam, the Boy Road-Agont. -By Ed. L. Wheeler. Wandsome Harry. By Charles Morris, Scar-Face Saul,” By Oll Cooines. Beainty Lance, the Boy Sport. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. Contain Ferret, the New York Detective. By Wheeler. fiver Star, the Pov Knight. By Ol] Coomes. VWI Wildfire, the Thoroughbred. By Charles Morris. “baron Sam iy J, Alexander Patten. \ Game of Gold. By Edward L, Wheeler. ‘snee und Lasso, By Captain Frederick Whittaker. Panther Paul, the Prairie Pirate. By Jos. E. Badger, J. Rack Ress, Will Wridtire’s Racer By Charles Morris. ® agwle Wit, the Boy Demon. By Ol) Coomes. i ‘The™“w rd Wunteras, By Capt. Frederick Whittaker. Col! Trigger, the Spert. By T. C. Harbaugh. 3 Deadwood Dick of Dendwood, By E. L. Wheeler. Mike Merry, the Harbor Police Boy “By Charles Morris. Vaney Frank of Colorado, By Buffalo Bill The Tost Captain, By Capiatn Frederick Whittaker. *% The Rlack Gtant. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. New Vork Nell. By Edward L. Whe: ler. Will Wildfire in the Wooda; By Charles Morris. Little Texans, the Young Mostanger. Bv Ol] Coomes, Dandy Rock’« Pledge. By George Waldo Browne, Billy Bagerage, the Railroad Boy. By Charles Morris. Hickory Harry. By Harry St. George. Aan Scott, the Steamboat Boy. By Edward Willett, Dendly Dash, By Joseph E- Badger, Jr. Tornado Tom. By T. C. Harbaugh A Trump Card, By Charles Morris. Ebony Dan, By Frank Domont. Thunderbolt Tom. By Harry St. George. Dandy Roek’sa Rival. By Geoige Waldo Browne. Bob Rockett, the Boy Dodger. By Charles Morris. Captain Arizona. By Philip S. Warne. Pre i The Boy Runaway. By Lieutenant H.D Perry, U.S.N, Nobby Nick of Nevada, By Edward L. Wheeler. Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. By Ol] Coomes. Bob Rockett. the Bank Runner, By Charles Morris. The Sea Trailer. By Lieutenant H, D, Perry, U.S.N. Wild Frank of Montana. By Edward L. Wheeler. Little Murricane, th: Boy Captuin, By Oll Coomes, The Hidden Hand, By Charles Morris. 84 The Boy Trailers. By Joseph E Badger, Jr Evil Eye, King of the Cattle Thieves. By Frank Dumont, Cool Desmond. By Colone! Delle Sara. ? Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy. By Charles Morris. 88S Ned Temple, the Border Boy. By T. C. Harhangh, 189 Bob Rockett, the Croicksman. By Charles Morris 190 Dandy Darke, By William R. Evster. 191 Buffalo Billy, the Roy Bullwhacker. B» Capt. A. B. Taylor 192 Captain Kit, the Wi )-o’-the-Wisp. By Lieut. Perry 198 The Lady Road-Agent. By Philip & Warne. 194 Buffalo BIll’« Bet. By Captain Taylor. 195 Deadwood Dick’« Bream, By Edward L. Wheeler. 196 Shadowed. By Charles Morris. 197 Little Grit, the Wild Rider, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 198 Arkansaw, the Man with the Knife. By T. C. Harbaugh. 199 Featherweight. By Edward Willett 200 The Boy Bedoulns. By Capt, Frederick Whittaker 201 The Black Wills Jezebel. By Edward L. Wheeler. 202 Prosvect Pete, of the Boy Brigade, By Ol) Coomes. 208 The Boy Parda, By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 204 Gold ume, the Boy Bandit. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham 205 Dendwood Dick’« Doom. By Edward L. Wheeler. 206 Dark Pant. the Tiger King. By Charles Morris, 207 Navaio Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. By T, C. Harbaugh, 208 The Boy Hercules, By Oll Coomes. 209 Fritz, the Bound-Roy Detective. Py Edward L. Wheeler 210 Faro Frank of High Pine. By William R, Eyster. % eejejey sh hh hk kp ses EVR Loewora— we H LVI > awe ~ —— IRR RABRS Ls Newly a ~ ret TAs o- Se 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 | 1 1 1? 129 J J 1 f } y ? J J Y J T 1 3 1 J } ’ 7 1 '. ) 7 1 a ? 7 J tvs » 2 t > an oe toe Ao he loka he hehe be hehe SRV SOCENARECO“SoeVAWe RED ek jp fh df fd fd ft dS ee f° kt rd td PP A . IME Crooked Cale, By Josenh E. Badger, Jr. Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective. By Charles Morris, Fritz to the Front, By Edward L. Wiee'er. Wolfgang, the Robber of the Rhine. By Capt. Whittaker. Captain Bullet, the Raider King. By T, C. Harbangh. Bison BIll, the Prince of the Reins. By Col. P. Ingrabam. Captain Crack-Shot, By Edward L. Wheeler, Tiger Tom, the Texan Terror. By Ol] Coomes. Despard, the Duell«t. By Philip S. Warne. Tom Tanner, Scaliwag and Scapegrace. By Chas. Morris. Sugar-Coated Sam, By Mdward L. Wheeler, Grit, the Bravo Sport. By Col Prentiss Ingraham. Ozark Alt, King of the Mountain. By Edward Willett. Dashing Dick. By Oll Co mes, > Sam Charcoal, the Premium Darky. By Charles Morris. © Snoozer, the By Sharp. By Edward L. Wheeler. > Dusky Darrell, Trapper. By E. Emerson. Little Wildfire. By O11 Coomes. Crimson Kate. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, The Yankee Rajah. By C. Dunning Clark, Plucky Phil, ot the Mountain Trail, By T. C. Harbaugh Gold-Dust Dick. By Edward L. Wheeler. Joe Buck of Angels. By Albert W. Aiken Old Rocky's ** Boyees.” By Buckskin Sain. 5 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy. By Charles Morris. Apollo BIH, By Edward L. Wheeler. Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain, By Col. Ingraham. ’ The Parson Detective. By Ol) Coomes. The Gold-seeker Guide. By Captain Mayne Reid. Cyclone Kit. By Edward lL. Wheeler, 3111 Bravo and His Bear Pards. By T. C. Harbaugh. The Two * Bloods.” By Charles Morris, The Disguised Guide, By O}l Coomes. Sicrra Sam, Hy Edward L. Wheeler. Merle, the Middy. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham Giant George. By Buckskin Sam. Old Grizzly and His Pets. By Capt. Bruin’? Adams. Slerra Sam’s Sceret. By Edward L. Wheeler, Milo Romer, the Anunal King. By Capt. Fred, Whittaker. The Midshipman Mutincer. By Col. P. Ingraham. Light-house Lige. By ( aptain J. F.C, Adains, Dick Dashaway. By Charles Morris, Sierra Sam’a Pard. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Half-Blood. By Edward S. Ellis. Captain Apoll.. By T. C. Harbsugh. Young Kentuck. By Captain M Wilton. The Lost Hunters, By Capt. J. F.C. Adams. Sierra Sain’s Seven. By Edward L. Wheeler. The Golden Harpoon, By Roger Starouck. Dare-Devil Dan. By Oll Coomes. Fergus Fearnaught. By George L. Aiken. The Young Sleutha, By Charles Morris, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Divide. By Edward L. Wheeler. 264 The Floating Feather. By Col. P. Ingraham. 265 The Tiger Tamer. By Captain Fred, Whittaker. 266 Killb’ar, the Guide. By Ensign Warren. 267 The Buckskin Detective. By T. C. Harbaugh, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. By E. L Wheeler. 269 The Gold Ship. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. 270 Blizzard Ben. By Captnin Mark Wilton, 271 The Huge Nunter. By Edward S, Ellis. 272 Minkskin Mike. By Ol! Coomes. 278 Jumbo Joe. By Edward L. Wheeler. 274 Jolly Jim. By Charles Morris 275 Arizona Jack. By Buckskin Sam. 276 Merle Monte’s Cruise. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 277 Denver Doll. By Edward L. Wheeler. 278 The Three Trappers. By Major Lewis W. Carson 279 Old Winch, the Rifle King. By T. C, Harbaugh. 280 Merle Monte’s Fate. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 281 Denver Doll's Victory, By Edward L. Wheeler. 282 The Typo Detective. By Edward Willett. 288 Indian Joe. By Major Lewis W. Carson. 284 The Sca Marauder. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, 255 Denver Doll's Decoy. By Edward L. Wheeler. 286 Josh, the Boy Tenderfvoot. By Capt. Mark Wilton. 27 Billy Blue-Eyes. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, 288 The Scalp King. By Captain J. F. C. Adams. 289 Jolly Jim’s Job. By Charles Morris. 290 Little Foxfire, By Ol) Coomes. 291 Turk, the Ferret. By Edward L. Wheeler. 292 Sancho Pedro. By Major F. L, St. Vrain. 298 Red Claw. the One-Eved Trapper. By Captain Comstock. 294 Dynamite Nan. By T, C. Harbaugh, 295 Keurless Pil. By Edward Willett. 296 Denver Doll’s Drift. By Edward L. Wheeler, 297 The Tarentula of Taos. By Boekskin Sam. 298 The Water-Hound. By Charles Morris, 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Takert? By Edward L. Wheeler. 800 The Sky Demon. By 01) Coomes, 861 L adville Nick. By Majer E. L. St. Vrain. 802 The Mountain Detective. By T. C. Harbangh. $08 ‘Tizn Jane, the Girl Miner. By FE. L. Wheeler. 804 The Dead S! A449 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective. By Jos. E Badger, Jr. 450 Wizard WAI, the Wonder-Worker. By Col. P. Ingraham. 4™1 Colorado Kate. By Philip S. Warne. 452 Hotepur Boh, the Street-Bay Detective, By Jo Pierce. 458 Sunflower Sam, of Shusta. By Fdward L. Wheeler. 454 Wizard Will's Street Scouta. By Col. P. Ingraham, 4°5 Little Lone Star. By Buckahin Sam. ‘ 456 Billy Brick, the Jolly Vagabond. By Chas. Morris, 457 Wingedfoot Fred. By 0!) Coomes. i 458 New England Nick. By Albert W. Aiken. 459 Flush Fan, the Ferret. By Edward L. Wheeler. 4°0 The Lawyer's Shadow. By Jo Pierce, 461 One Aganinta Fifty. Py T. (oP Harbaugh. 462 The Born Guide. Ry C-) Prentiss Ingraham. Tamarac Tom, the Big Trapper Boy. By O!l Coomes. Nimble Nick, the Cireus Prince, Hy Albert W. Aiken. Philo Fly, of Phenix. By Edward L. Wheeler. Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective Ky Charles Morris, Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude By J. C. Cowdrick. Neptune Ned, the Roy Conster, By Col. P. Ingraham. The Rival Giants of Nowhar’. By J. W, Oshen. The Boy Shadow; or, Feliz Fox’s Hut jor the Nabob, Ry T. C. Harbauch. A771 Rozeman Bill of Pig Brace} or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Corral By E, L. Wheeler, A772 Jannty Joe, the Young Horse-King. “By Jo Pierce. 478 O14 Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic. Fy Ol! Coomes,. 474 Flora, the Flower Girl. By Col. Prentiss Ingrahan. 475 The Black Ship. By John S, Warner. A76 Wumboldt Harry, the Hurricane. Py Edward L. Wheeler, A?T The Exeelaior Sport. By T. C. Harbaugh. 478 Tangemund, the Desert Detective. By Frederiek Dewey, A79 Detective Dodge, By Charles Morris. 480 Three Jolly Pards. By Philip S. Warne. 481 Moll Myetery: or, Deadwood Dick Jr. in Deadwood. Ry: Edward L, Wheeler. . 482 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Trojan of the Great Range. By Oll Coomes. 488 Ferreta Aflonts or, Wizard Will's Last Case, By Colonel. Prentiss Ingraham. ASA Comanche Pick and Hia Four Invyincibles By Henry J. Themas. A New Irauc Every Tuesaday The Half-Pime Library 1s ter sale by ait newsdeniers, five: cents per copy, or sunt by mail on receipt of six cents each BEADLE AND ADAMR, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York, ALL h pS an ENAAMS 34 x 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 —