Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 642) (1889 11 12)
The text was read from the page scans by machine (OCR), so it has mistakes and its columns may run together. See the pages · About this title · At the Internet Archive
Page 1
FOURTH EDITION. , > | pee aw | : a SEE Lj \’ ~~ TO. YR ws vA nS ae ‘ Ny AR-Co/aune A Ss Res ae seme Ri wm. ~All ANS Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at gecond Class Mail Rates. Copyright 1889, by BEADL® AND ADAMB, Rove mber 12, 1889, $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, No. 642. a Year, No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. Vol. XXV. ma Sa aT MMi N alii \ MK hil \| uN ATA ¢ VY 3 wihl{ ili; A . 4 —— SLE LaF, - JALd gee i i | i | | ; Ps a ili ia My A MYSTERY. BY E. L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF “ DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, gro. | CHAPTER I, A PECULIAR CASE TO TACKLE, AMONG the passengers on a train which made the trip from New York to Buffalo, on a certain occasion, there were two of special interest to our readers—Richard M. Brisco}, better knowp as Deadwood Dick, Jr., the W ild -West Detece tive, and Billy Bucket, once a street boy of Gotham, but, later, the assistant of the noted Westerner. They bad been summoned from New York te DEADWOOD | DICK GAZED IN DUMFOUNDED SILENCE AT THE STRANGE “INSCRIPTION. ** DOOMED!—DOOMED!”’ GLEASON GASPED, IN HORROR
Page 2
‘engage in detective work, the nature of which ‘~was unknown to them, Reaching Buffalo they were met by a man whose characteristics were decidedly of the German type. He was nota person of prepossess- ing eppearance, but his sharp, shrewd eyes in- dicated that he was much smarter than he !ook- ed. Though pliinly dressed, he had acommand- ing, soldier-like style of movement which in- dicated that, at some time in bis life, he had been in the army. “Mr. Bristles!” he exclaimed, tapping Dick familiarly on the shoulder, ‘‘I vas glad to meet you!’ ‘** Well, who are you?” demanded Dick, curtly. **T don’t know you.” ‘““My name is D. Ennis. I am in the local employ, and vassent here to meet you on der arrival of dot trains, Dot is it.” “ce Well—” Here Billy put in a word. “Did you ketch one?” he inquired with a broad rin. ‘Don’t yer think he’s made a mistake, an’ hat bis name is Dennis?” Dick gave Billy a warning glance, and then remarked; “T presume, Mr. Ennis, you can prove that you are what you claim to be?” ** Vell, der chief vill dell you I helps der force ‘in various ways, und I vas here to dake you to _ received cordially. him. | I knowed youat vonce when I sees ou. ** We will go there shortly. Just now, we are in need of food, ‘** Den come mit me,” Ennis directed; and he led the way toa restaurant, where their orders were at once filled, **Can you tell me for what purpose we are bs aig here?” the Wild West Detective then asked, ‘* Yes, You’re toinspect dot haunted house, und dot haunted man whose name vas James Gleason.” ‘“*A haunted house, and a baunted man, eh? Well, where does this man live?” “Out purty much by Black Rock, on Niagara streot.” ‘* Who is this man Gleason?” ‘* He vos once a. broker, and rich.” ** fs he married?’ ‘*Nein. He is vyonof demold bachelar men, like myself, see, who don’t take no stock in der vimmens.” ‘*Guess et’s de ‘vimmens’ as don’t take no stock in you, Dennis!” put in Billy Bucket, as if to tantalize the German. ‘** Dot vimmens, vot vas got: stucken on you, she vas off her feed!” ‘* Billy!” warned Dick, ‘* Don’t forget your good manners. Never mind the boy, Mr. Ennis,” seeing that the Germaf’s face was flushed with anger. Lunch finished the trio made their way to the office of the chief of police, by whom they were ‘IT am giad to meet you, Bristol,” he declared, **‘ How was the bealth of Mr, Byrnes, whon you ' left New York?” ** Excellent, sir.” ‘Glad to hear it, as we are old friends, I wrote to him toseeif he could send mea good detective, who was not known in this city. He recommended you, and so I directed him to send you on,” “ Well, sir, 1am here, with my boy partner, to receive orders. What is it you want?” ‘The case is a very peculiar one. Are you of a superstitious turn of mind?” ** Not at all,” ‘* Not afraid of ghosts, ch?” “Not a bit. In fact, I rather admire them.” The chief smiled, ¢ ‘This case may test your nerves, Out on Niagara street, near Black Rock, lives a wealthy man who is haunted by a ghost!” ‘* What sort of a ghost?” ‘* A beautiful young woman!” * Well, that is not so bad, if we must have a ghost; but, isn’t his trouble another kind of spirits?” ‘Ohl no; Mr. Gleasog is a man who never, I believe, drinks to exc&%s, This apparition ap- peared to bim one night some six months ago, standing by his bedside, At first, he supposed it to be a hallucination, but, as it has reappeared every night since, the man has been led toregard ' itas a genuine ghost. ‘Finally, nearly driven out of his mind, he ears for assistance, and I sent him one of the uest men on my force, with instructions to visit Mr. Gleason and spend the night with him. The man reported, the next day, that, as the elock struck twelve, a beautiful girl, with flow- ing golden hair, and clad in a robe of immacu- late white, appeared and uttered the favorite | Six months ago, te cp pect St . erie oe ra inet tel _ a LL _ Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. policy numbers of the colored fraternity: ‘ Four, eleven, forty-four I ‘*Gleason accompanied my man here, and vouched for the statement, also claiming that, whenever the ghost appeared, it was the same utterance, over and over again; after which tbe apparition would vanish as suddenly as it ap- peared!” Dick hed listened with due gravity, but both he and Billy Bucket found it hard to regard the matter seriously. ‘*T don’t take much stock in this!” Dick ad- mitted. ‘‘I neversaw a ghost yet that couldn't be ‘laid? with a bullet or a club.” * But, understand! Five of my best men have seen it.” ** Are you sure?” “Yes, They are men whose veracity cannot be doubted.” “* Are they to continue in the case?” a3 ‘No, sir; you couldn’t get one of those fivo men to spend another niglt in Gleascn’s house if you were to pay them fifty doilars apiece!” ‘I should certainly hate to take tbe risk,” Dick laughed. ‘‘ Detectives, as a rule, are not averse to collaring all the money that comos honestly in their way. Does this Mr. Gleason know that you sent for me?” “‘He does; and, if you succeed in ferreting out this mystery, he will pay you well. While I am not superstitious, Iam positive tbat there is something very mysterious afoot. Mr, Glea- son’s neighbors avoid him, and some of them even believe that be is possessed of the devil. Strange sounds nightly issue from bis house, which cannot be accounted for; and the neigh- bors complain of disturbed rest.” ‘¢ What business is Mr, Gleason in?” “‘Nono, just now. Having acquired a for- tune, he has no need to bother his head about businoss.” ‘¢ What was formerly his business?” ‘“‘ He was engaged as a stock-brokor,” Conversation continued for somo time longer, and the chief, though Loner not a believor in things supernatural, gave all possible intorma- tion. Obtaining Mr. Gleason’s address, Dic! ana Billy set forth to see the baunted man, though Dick was thoroughly under the impression that his trip to Buffalo would prove a grand fizzle. CHAPTER II. THE HAUNTED MAN, THE residence of Mr. Gleason was on the north side of the thoroughfaro, and commanded an agreeable view of the Niagara. It was a residence of modest proportions, rather plain as to exterior, but magnificent in the in- terior, as Dick quickly discerned. The ring at the’ door brought to light a negro servant. f ‘*T wish to see Mr. Gleason,” Dick explained, “Come in, sah! Givo me your name, and I will take it to de marster.” ‘ “Simply say I was «cnt by the chief of police, and came from New York.” “Very well, sab.” The darky then vanished through a rear door, and was gone severe minutes. When he returned he politely inquired: “ Be you de detective, sab?” “é 1 am,” * An’ who am de kid?” ‘My partner,” “Den come right in, sah! My marster will see you.” So they entered a spacious parlor which was magnificently furnished, and a model of good taste and neatness ; Aman aged about forty was reclining ona sofa, He was tall, thin, pale and haggard. He did not look like a man who was accus- tomed to strong drink, or, in fact, to any drink at all, He wore a long beard which was carefully trimmed, 7 Both hair and beard were snowy white, and seemed to indicate that he had undergone an upusual amount of trouble, He arose to meet them. ; ‘My name is Richard Bristol,” the detective at once explained. “And you have come from the police?” Gleason questioned, as he motioned them to be sea ‘* Yes, sir. I believe you require some ove to ferret out a mystery—something of a ghostly character?” “Exactly. That is just whatI want, I am a haunted man, and life is being sapped away by this being, or spirit--whichever it may be, I was a strong, healthy man; now, Iam merely a sbadow of my former self, After that apparition, ghost or devil came, knew no sleepor rest, ‘The first two times lsaw it, I thought lightly of the matter, for, being a hearty eater, and many times a late eater, it oceurred to me that Il had been attacked with the nigbfmare. “ But, when this apparition reappeared, night after night. at the same time, and uttered that ominous * Four, cleven, forty-four, 1 began to get scired, Can you wonder?’ ‘Well, it is most singular, The chicf says he has sent {lve men here, who could not again be tempted to enter ‘our house,” ‘*He is right. They were incredulous, at first, but when they saw the ghost, they were glad to get away in short order.” : Does this ghost appear every night?” OB," “ Are yor not subject to strange Qrcams? Are you positive that, wren you saw this chost, you wero not laborir + under a ballucination?” “Cortainly, | am positive. Why. when five men besides myself have seen the samething, how can | be mistakon?” This was an argumcnt not easily met. ‘‘ Describe this alleged spook to the best cf your ability,” directed } dick, curiously. Mr. Gleason reflected. ** Well,” be replied, ‘‘she comes at midnight, almost to the minute, asi have told you, As she stands over my bed, I itl a terror which prevents me from taking critical notice, but I am prepared to say that she is beautiful to look upon, She is always clad in whitc. while an abundance of golden hair flows down over her shoulders.” “It strikes me,” observed Dick, ‘‘ that this spook business is a diseaseof your mind. How- ever, as I have no fear of ghost, spook, bogie or witch, I will remain here, I and my young friend, who is also of my profession, will return later on. In the mean time, we will look around town and see where we can secure a reasonable- priced lodging-house.” Mr. Gleason interrupted quickly: “Why, arc yon not my guests, when you are in my employ?” he demanded, “ Did James Gloason call you all the v/ay tere from New York, to investigate a matter concerning himself, and allow you to put up with ordinary boarding- house accommodations? Not much, sir! You will stay here. D’vo great confidenco in you, and, during the day, we will get better acquainted, To night, | want you to see the ghost!” ‘J won’t be here about that time!” declared Billy. ‘Got any barrels, or coal-boxes, a feller can get inter, mister?” Deadwood Dick smiled as he reassuringly re- lied: Ps Don’t be afraid, Billy; the ghost won’t tackle you !” ‘ Woll, if she does, [1 run, that’s all, I kin lick any kid o’ mv size in ther Fourth Ward, in New York, but Pll darned ef I’m up ter tacklin’ customers from ther graveyard!” “© 7] bave had to endure it for weeks and months,” Gleason observed, gloomily. ‘‘ And you have really no clew to the a tery?” asked Dick, looking keenly at the mas of the house, ry None.” ‘Ther is nothing in your past that helps you to an opinion, eh?” “ Absolutely nothing.” ** if the ghost appears in your chamber, why ou seize it? Ai ave tried, time and again.” ** And in vain?” ; ‘ “Yes, The ghost fades away into air, andI have my labor all for nothing. I have done all that was possible, but I remain as before—a haunted man?!” don’t eu b Gleason appeared to be thoroughly unmanned — by the state of affairs, The day passed, Gleason entertained them well, and, apparently mindful of their comfort, suggested that they retire early and get some sleep before midnight. Just before that hour he would call them. This plan was carried out, and they were soon left alone in the chamber to which he conducted them foracent. It strikes me we had better get baek to New York!” : “ Why, Billy, a game young lad like you ought not to be afraid of spooks.” *“ Wouldn’t like ter meet one, though! No. darn me ef I would! after midnight, so much; ner a wake; but when et comes to sech a fine point as ghosts, why, Pd ruther you’d leave me cut!” ‘* Can’t doit!” laughed Dick, “‘ for I don’tknow ick,” said Billy, I don’t like this racket I don’t mind a graveyard MF eet. eet + k Sana ¢ re oe ae . ee 4 ei + _€ = ‘ » y . :
Page 3
— of a better remedy for scaring this particular ghost from the doorthan you, If the ghost were to see you, it would surely run!” ** Yes; but it would be right toward. me, boss, But say, though, what do ye think o’ this biz, anyhow?” “Tl give my opinion when I’ve seen the ghost,” returned Dick, **No chance ter doubt its bein’ a real ghost, hey?” ‘* No chance, apparently.” Billy’s manner was one of deep concern, real or feigned, so, Dick did not seem inclined to say much concerning the mystery. “The ghost may be hidin’ right in this room now,” Mr, Bucket persisted. ‘‘ Reckon I'll look around an’ see!” CHAPTER III. THE GHOST! THE room to which Dick and Billy had retired was a strange one, for the reason that all the walls were formed cf panels. ‘*T kinder don’t like this,” Billy asserted. **Some o’ these panels may sort o’ get a move on themselves, and out will pop that ghost. I remember this panel racket, right well!” ‘* How’s that, Billy?’ “Oh! it was down in New York. I hadn't only ten cents ter me name, so I tackled a ten- cent lodging-house on the Bowery. The room had panels, jest like these, only not so elegant, I took off my clotbes, laid’em on a chair that stood ag’in’ the wall, and went to bed. Along about midnight I heerd a noise, an’ settin’ up, what d’ye s’pose I saw?” ‘“‘ Well, what?” ‘* My clothes disappearin’ through one o’ them panels in de wall!” ** What did you do, then?” “T howled! Der boss came up, and, when I s’plained de situation, he give me a cast-off suit of clothes about ten times too large for me, and then told me to take a quiet sneak by myself. I snooked!” ** Well, Billy, I don’t think there is much dan- ger of your getting your clothes stolen here,” ‘* Maybe not,” was the reply; ‘but, [ ain’t runnin’ no risks, Ill keep ’em on!” And he did, which was most judicious, for, when Dick awoke after a sound sleep, his own were gone! ** Well, this beats the mischief!” he ejaculated, “*Hev! Billy; wake up!” “What d’yer want?’ demanded the gamin, drowsily. ** Where’s my clothes?” “Dunno; [ ain’t keepin’ stock o’ yer duds, Told you my experienco, but you didn’t seem to cotton to it; so ef you’ve lost yer wearin gear et serves you darned and well right!” * You young rascal, I believe you’ve hid ’em,” ‘* Well, search de room ef you think so. You Western fellers are most s’picious fellers I ever see’d, What d’ye s’pose I want wid yer clothes, when I’ve gota suit of my own, an’ got ’em on mie, in de bargain? Don’t s’pect me to wear two suits at once, do yer?” ““No; but you might be puttin’ up a job on me!” ‘* Nix-ee job,” Billy replied. Dick was hardly prepared to believe this, however, so, in his undergarments, he set to work, and searched every nook and corner of the big room, but all to no avail. Nowhere cculd his clothes be found! What was be todo? It was night, and all the clothing-stores were likely to be closed, He was most undeniably in a fix, Billy was now rolling on the bed, greatly amused at the novelty of Dick’s predicament. **That ghost won’t be wid yer, ter-night, boss. You’d skeer her out o’ six months’ owth |” “Pil break—your body, if ye don’t shut up!” cried Dick, savagely, Just then, there came a loud rap on the door. **Go to the door!” ordered Dick, making a dart for a closet. ‘*Nix-ee; not me!” replied Mr. Bucket. * That’s ther darned old ghost!” And he immediately covered himself up in the blankets, so as not to see the apparition. But it did not prove to be Miss Spook, Hello! open the door!” It was the voice of Mr. Gleason, and, consider- ably relieved, Bristol complied with his request. ** What is all the racket up bere?’ demanded Gleason, apprehensively. ‘‘ Have you seen it?” “No; but it bas seen me, in great shape. Does this ghost of yours wear male attire?” “No. She always comes in immaculate white. Why do you ask?” ** This estimable ghost of yours has stolen my Deadwood Dick, Jr, in Buffalo. ie) breeches, Not only them, but my vest and coat also, I presume if I had left off my under- garments, they would be gone, too! ith my clothes went my money and watch, Now, what the deuce am I to do?” ** Go get a palm-leaf, boss!” chimed in Billy. Mr. Gleason did not even smile, but looked exceedingly grave. ‘* Strange! strange!” he muttered, scratching his head, “ Has anything like this ever occured in your | house before?” asked Dick. ‘Yes, Each time an officer of the law has come here to investigate the case, and has gone to sleep, he has awakened to find his clothing gone,, Then we have searched the house, high and low, and found no clew to the mystery. It is some- thing awful, this strain upon my nervous sys- tem!” **T would like to ingaire why you did not notify me of this penchant of your ghost?” the detective curtly returned. “Because I bad put a new lock on the door, and thought I bad made all safe. But, Mr. Bristol, I sball bear every cent of your loss; you shall be paid in full. I deeply regret not warn- ing you, but I trusted to the new lock.” ‘If the door is secure, my property went through some hole in the wall, I'll look for i ** T’ve looked in vain, in the past, but we will try again.” They did so, but found no explanation of the mystery. ** Well, what am Itodo for garments?” Dick then asked, ‘¢Oh! I can fix you out, all right, I guess. I’ve a suit that a relative left here, last year, and I think it will just about fit you.” ‘Allright! Idon’t careif it was made for a giant; I'll put it on.” They adjourned to another room, where Dick was soon dressed in a presentable manner, ‘* Now, come to my room,” directed Gleason. ‘Tt is approaching the hour for it to ap- pear!” So to Gleason’s room they went. ‘* Now,” continued Gleason, ‘‘ I have cleared out my wardrobe, yonder, One of you can station himseif in that. Probably it would an- swer you best, Mr. Bristol. You can leave the door partly ajar, and, immediately the clock strikes twelve, you will see it/ Now, let me see! What shall we do with the boy?” And Mr, Gleason reflected. ‘‘Never mind me!” replied Billy. ‘‘Tll take up my position ter suit myself, where I kin see widout bein’ seen.” . ** And where is that?” ** Under de bunk!” And, with that, the young Arab put the plan into execution by crawling in under the bed, greatly to the detective’s amusement, After Dick and Billy had assumed their re- spective positions, Mr. Gleason went to his bed, covered bimself up, and all was silence—silence most dismal, ‘“* ['m half-asbamed of this business,” the de- tective thought, ‘* and, when itis settled, I think I will draw the line at ghosts in my detective work, But—give the ghost its due—this affair may end in my becoming a believer!” _ Under tke bed, Billy Bucket was also meditat- ing. ‘** Smotherin’ smoke! I wish I was back in New York! I don’t like this job; darned ef I do! I wished the old man hadn’t give Dick any clothes, an’ the chances are that the spoo wouldn’t come around,” It was an anxious vigil for all Twelve o'clock! Bristol instinctively turned bis eyes toward the clock as it told the hour, but, he almost im- mediately became conscious of something more, There was a change in the room, and something was visible which was lighter and whiter than the rays of the faintly burning gas. The ghost was there ! Yes; coming from some place umknown, and, having entered in some manner beyond surmise, the haunting shadow of James Gleason’s life was visible even to the doubting visicn of Dead wood Dick. It was clad in spotless white, and, certainly, low the waist, and reminding one of sunny rip- ples on placid water. ; The bands were slender, and the figure was | wholly symmetrical, Dick was watching; so was Billy, from the furthermost corner of the bed, while Mr, Glea- | son was sitting upright, white as death, The apparition gazed only in one direction; it approached Mr. Gleason’s bedside with a slow, gliding movement. **Good God!” groaned the stock-broker, in ter- ror, Dick and Billy gazed in silence not unmixed with awe, Then from the ghost’s white lips came coherent words, slowly and sepulchrally uttered: * Four, eleven, forty-four !” James Gleason dropped back prone upon the bed, while the ghost glided away. Quickly the detective flung open the wardrobe door and sprung out, but, the ghost had gone— where, none there could tell! It had seemed to fade away like a vanishing shadow! CHAPTER IV. THE MYSTERY INCREASES, ‘“WRLL, this is mystery with a vengeance!” Thus admitted Deadwood Dick when, after a thorough search, he and bis companions had failed to find the specter or any avenue through which she might bave escaped, “‘T reckon you’re satisfied?” replied Mr, Glea- son, with an air of despondency. ‘“ Yes, to a certain extent.” ‘* Well, what do you make of it?” ‘Let me question you before I answer. Were you ever married?” ‘No, never. If I bad been I would have been better off to-day, both in spirits andin money matters.” ‘* Were you ever engaged?” “ Yes.” “To whom? if I may ask.” ‘* Mabel Madden,” ‘* Do you know where she lives, now?” ‘““No, That she is in the city lam positive but where, I cannot tell exactly. Somewhere, i think, on Seneca street, not far from Exchange,” ** Does the ghost bear any resemblance to this Mabel Madden?” ** Not in the least,” Just then there wasaknock at the outside door, audible even tothem. Presently aservant appeared, ** Who is it?” Mr. Gleason demanded. ** Don’t know, sir; I didn’t see.” *“Confound youl why didn’t you open the door?” ‘Rraid it is de ghost!” “ll open it,” volunteered Dick, glancing at the clock, ‘‘ but it strikes me this is a strange hour for callers.” | ‘** Ditto!” added Billy ‘‘ and here I go under de bed!” And he went without delay. Dick hastened to the front door and opened it, | But no one was to be seen on the outside, | The night was one of utter blackness, so thinking it possible he might not be able to see the late applicant for admission, Bristol called | | out: ‘Who's there?” The answer was one that would have made the hair of a superstitious man incline to stand onend, Ina sepulchral voice, it came, * Four, eleven, forty-four !” Thoroughly aroused, Dick rushed outside but nothing wasthere! He made a thorough search, but was compelled to return without baving ac- complished anything, “Well, who was it!” demanded Mr, Gleason. ‘* A friend of yours,” Dick replied, aemly ‘A friend of mine, at this time of night? What name?” “ Four, eleven, forty-four!” Gleason groaned aloud, “Good God! Willthat thing never cease to haunt me? Why didn’t you fire at it?” ‘* Didn't see any thing to fire at,” “Ob! Lord!” cried Billy, from under the bed. “Can you pray, Dick” ‘Pray! Why should I pray?’ “Cause we're gone up de spout, Oh! don’t I wish I was back in New York!” “Oh! the ghost won’t bite you, Billy; they oh ot eR Ri ee A NM Bm Ny did not appear like a creature of earth, No | . sound was to be heard as it moved, and its grace | don’t as a rule, crawl under the bed. If you see of carriage was only equaled by a certain | this particular one there, let me know, and I vagueness which hung around it, as it were, like | will come to your rescue, I reckon our ghost an unsubstantial mantle, Its beautifully-formed | won’t be heard from again, to-night. Think so, face was of adeathlike pallor, which was in | Mr. Gleason?” striking contrast to its wonderful eyes, “The Lord forhid, Mr. Bristol! This matter To define the expression of those eyes would be | is 80 preying upon my mind that I fear T shall almost impossible, become insane. Do you wonder at it? Do you The hair was like a sheen of gold, reaching be- ' think a mancan stand this thing, night after =
Page 4
night, week after week, and month after month, without having his nerves shattered? I some- times feel, in the lonely hours of the night, that I shall go stark, raving mad. Help yourself to the brandy thereon the side-board, Bristol; but, for heaven’s sake, don’t desert me in this hour of dire distress, I’m worth a good deal of mouey, in one way and another, and should I af off, it’s all yours!” The detective took this statement with a grain of allowance. ‘* Where do J come in?” This, as may be supposed, came from under the bed, where Billy Bucket was still inclined to linger. “You came in at the front door, and go out at the back!” Dick retorted. **'No! no! the boy shall be provided for,” Gleason promised. ‘‘I’m not, nor ever was, a stingy man; and, if I can have this horror dis- ae er explained, I will make you both rich, Just then, Deadwood Dick uttered a sudden exclamation: **Look here! What does this mean?” This brought Mr, Gleason up in bed. ‘* What is it?” he gasped. There had, prior to this, been a small table, standing in the center of the room, Now it was across the floor, against the side of the wainscoting. ‘What's the matter?” demanded Gleason. **Did you see it again?” ‘*No; but there may be something wrong. There’s a screw loose somewhere. id you touch this table while I was out of the room?” “Certainly not!” And Mr, Gleason grew white. ** And you, Billy? Did you remove it?” ‘Not much, Ef you’d ’a’ gi’n me the house, you would not have got me out of this ’ere hidin’- lace! - The detective looked perplexed. ‘“* Well,” he exclaimed, ‘‘ by the great Scott, here isa mystery. When I went to the door, that stand was in the center of the room; Dll swear to it!” ** Are you perfectly sure?” asked Gleason, ** Positive!” ‘Well, it is the strangest thing I ever heard of!’ Billy now crawled from under the bed, far enough to let his head protrude, ** Am she here, Dick?” ‘* No, not at present; you can come out of cover.” So Billy emerged from his covert with a broad ** Don’t lose any sleep out o’ this mystery,” he directed. ‘‘I was the ghost that moved that aire table, while Gleason was lookin’ down ter hear from you.” Just then there came a tap upon the window that caused new excitement, Dick ran to that point, and threw up the lower sash, when again that mournful—“ Four, eleven, forty-four |” Dick’s revolver was out in an instant but the only response was a mocking, eldritch scream of laughter that echoed through the room! ‘** Satisfied, now, eb?” inquired Mr. Gleason, ‘“‘['m more than that! But Ill figure out this business before I abandon the job, or Pll forfeit ten thousand dollars of a sum of money Dve got laid away. Now tell me what is the meaning of this ‘Four, eleven, forty-four’ chert which the ghost utters so mournful- “T haven’t the slightest idea.” ; fe Don’t it connect witb anything in your past ife? “Tt does not!” Gleason positively declared. sae you—are you sure you never played icy ‘Of course I am sure,” responded Gleason. * You never gambled with those ‘coon’ num- bers?” **No; not that I remember, I have often heard of the superstition of the colered race in regard to them, but, as I never frequented the resorts patronized by this class of people, I can- not imagine how, or why, the number should follow me so persistently.” The detective had watched closely while Gleason spoke, but the latter’s manner and ex- pression were alike those of a man who had nothing to conceal, “ But,” replied Dick, “if the numbers have no particular meaning to you, why should your ghost utter them?” “IT only wish I could tell you, but I cannot,” “She’s hungry fur a game o’ policy,” sug- Jeg ys Billy, ‘‘ an’ he’s the ‘coon’ she has picked ou “Be silent!” Bristol ordered; but Billy lost * grin on his face, i a - A - Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. his levity as the ghost’s knuckles sent out an- other alarm, This time, the rap are. to be directly be- neath Dick’s chair, and he made a leap as if im- pregnated with a severe charge of electricity. “The devil certainly has management of this house!” he muttered. Then seeing nothing, he turned to Gleason with the inquiry: ** Did you hear it?” ‘Did [? Have I not heard it before? It comes from all parts of the house, from cellar to garret. Sometimes it isin my room; at others, battering the sides of the house, or the doors, or the windows, Again, it is heard in the barn, where I ksep my horses and conveyances, In the last six months I have been obliged to em- ploy no less than ten different stablemen, to fill vacaucies made by this infernal thing, be it woman or devil!” ‘* Scared away, I suppose?” ‘*Yes. Immediately the ghost appears before them, they come to me, hand in their resig- nation, draw their pay and quit!” Bate let’s us hand in ours!” suggested illy. ‘Oh! no, not yet,” replied Dick. ‘‘ We are ame enough, I hope, to keep our promise. here is something in this case that will have to be investigated, now that I have come all the way here from New York. If that. ghost ap- pears to my vision again, Pll ‘lay’ it or my name isn’t Bristol.” And, annoyed at bis defeat iv this prelimina- ry skirmish with the apparition, Dick retired to his room, to remain undisturbed for the rest of the night. fd CHAPTER V. ENNIS ON DUTY. Dick and Billy left Mr, Gleason about nine in the morning. The detective had now insisted on having his headquarters at a hotel, and be proceeded to make arrangements at once. Dick then sent Billy to the depot, to look after their baggage, while he spent some time in wan- dering about town, bis eyes drinking in what was to be seen, and his mind likewise busy, as regarded the haunted man and the haunted house. ‘*Tt?s a mystery,” he mused, ‘‘ that bids fair to outdo anything on my record, I wonder—” ‘* Hello! mine frient; how you vas?” Looking around, Dick beheld the full-moon face of Mr. D. Ennis. **Oh! I'm alive yet,” Dick replied, smilingly. ‘* Did you see dot ghostesess?” “Yes, I did, or something of a very ghostly order.” pet you tink it, hey? You no like him, hey “Well, I should judge it was a her, instead of a him, from general appearances, However the case may be, if 1 get my eye on the article again, there will be work for an undertaker!” ‘*Undertakers don’t vas bury ghosts, my frient.” “Well, then I will do the job, myself. [ don’t believe in spirits materialized, and Ill penetrate this mystery, or ‘‘sell out my profes- sion, ** Den you vil sell out.” ‘TY don’t think so, I’ve an idea it won’t be long before I sball be able to reveal the whole thing. Are you busy, to-day, Mr. Ennis?” ‘No, I baf noddings to do,” “Then I want your services,” Mr. D. Ennis brightened up, immediately, ‘* Wot for you vant me?” be demanded, ‘* Well, to find a woman, Whether she is young or old I have neglected to inquire, but oe impression is that she is not over thirty- ive, ‘* Wot vas hername, you don’d know?” ‘* Mabel Madden.” Mr. Ennis whistled softly. “Wot you vant mit her?” he inquired, with curiosity. ‘* That don’t matter,” Dick replied. to locate ber, found?” ‘**Vell,” said Herr Ennis, “‘der vas two of ’em, py dot name, V’ot one off dem'do you vant?” This was a question Dick was hardly prepared to answer, ‘*Describe the two women!” he requested. ‘* How old are they? what is their personal ap- pearance? and where do they live?” ‘*Vell, I don’d was much on dose descriptions mit my tongue, but I can see a lot. Von of dese womans is about forty years olt, while de odder von—vell, she am not so olt. Von of dem “T want Do you know where she can be haf plack hair, v’ile the odder von she haf yel-: low hair, like dot sunshine.” “That’s the one I want. Where does she live?” ** Up on Seneca street.” . ‘ Do you know what business she is engaged in Herr Ennis scratched his bushy head. “Vell,” he said, ‘I gif dot up. Der vas a sign on der door v’ot says: ‘Mabel Madden, odes!’ and noddings more, If you vill tell me v’ot ‘ modes’ means, I vill set up dem drinks, so- helb me gracious!” 4 I see,” responded Dick. modiste—a dressmaker, other one live?” Herr Ennis reflected a moment. ‘On North Division street, I tink, but I for- get me dot number, What is dot number, now? Let me tink!” “She is a Now, where does the But, although Ennis applied his thoughts. vigorously to the matter, he failed to remember the location. ‘*Dot number I forgot. But I t?ink I can find dot house, all de same,” ‘* Well, then come along. Show me it, and that of the other Mabel Madden, and I will pay you for your time.” hae they set forth on their tour of investiga- tion, First they went to North Division street, and presently Herr Ennis succeeded in locating the home of Mabel Madden No. 1. ** Dot’s where dot plack-haired von lives,” he: said, ‘tor at least she did lif bere.” “Very well. Now show the way to the resi- dence of the other.” They set forth for Seneca street. “Wot you t?ink?—dot those wimmens haf a somet’ings to do mit dot ghost business?” *¢ Well, I don’t know. If they bave, I'll soom find out. I’ve got an idea that the matter is: worth investigating!” CHAPTER VI. A VISIT TO MISS MADDEN. ARRIVED at Seneca. street in the neighborhood of Exchange, Herr Ennis soon pointed out the residence of Miss Madden, No. 2. It was rather a shaky-lookiog frame cottage, and attached to the door-jamb was a neat liitle tin sign which bore the inscription to whick Ennis had referred. ** Dot vas der blace,” observed the German, ‘Now, vot more vou vant mit me?” ‘“Nothing, until IT bave a chat with this woman, But, wait around the neigbborhood,, in case I should want you.” ‘T vil vait ofer at dot beer saloon, across de street.” “ Allright. I won’t be gone long.” So Ennis made a bee-line for the saloon, while: Dick went and rung Miss Madden’s bell. A comely-looking young lady, of not more than four-and twenty years opened the door, **Ts Miss Madden in?” Dick asked. ‘Yes, sir. Walk in!” ; y Dick entered, and was shown into a neat little parlor, where every thing was snug and wel mers: “* Wait here!” directed the young woman. ‘*T will summon Miss Mabel. Who shall I say wishes to see her?” ‘* Mr. Bristol,” ‘¢ Very well.” Then she left the room. ‘*Y wonder how much [ shall learn here?” Dick mused. ‘1 dare say it won’t be much.” Miss Madden soon appeared, She was a pale, ethereal-looking ereature, but, nevertheless, rather pretty. Moreover, she was, as well as Dick could re- member, an exact counterpart of the apparition, ghost, or whatever it was, that he had seen at the house of Mr. Gleason! She was clad in spotless white—a flowing wrapper with lace trimmings; and wore some very elegant jewelry, 2 ‘Did you wish to see me, sir?” she asked, — politely. vel P “Yes, miss. I have a little question to ask you. Did you ever know Mr. James Gleason?” She heard the question with perfect com- posure. , : ‘Yes, 1 did!” she steadily returned. “Were you engaged to be married to him?” “T was: but we had a quarrel and that settled matters. Since then we have been strangers.” “Do you mind telling me what your quarrel occurred about?” Dick asked, as delicately as. possible, , i “T do not, as a rule, impart my private affairs to utter strangers.” ‘¢ When did you see Mr. Gleason last?”
Page 5
nl tt “It is some days since. I beliove the last time I saw him was on Franklin street, near the post-office. We simply passed each other by, without speaking.” ‘Were you not in Mr. Gleason's house last might, Miss Madden?” inquired Dick, bluntly. She gave him an indignant look. “Certainly not! Why should I be in the house of that man? Your question is most un- gentlemanly!” ‘Can't help that, miss; J saw you there !” “You lie! Get out of my house!” she cried, angrily. i “Not yet, my dear lady,” responded Dick, de- eidedly. ‘I saw you there,” he repeated, ‘‘ and Vl swear to it. Now, come; own up. ou’re playing the ghost racket on Mr, Gleason!” “No, Lam not. DoT look like a ghost?” ‘¢ Well, yes; at least, you resemble the one who looked in upon us last night. In fact, you are the very counterpart of her!” This seemed to nettle Miss Madden even more, ‘You are mistaken, sir!” she asserted, warm- ly. ‘I was not out of my house after dark,” ‘‘ Miss Madden, are you aware what I am?” “Yes. You are evidently a detective, but you have come to the wrong place to pursue your vocation, sir. You will find out nothin here, as there is nothing to be found out, know nothing of Mr. Gleason’s house, nor do I waut to. {£ have never done him an injustice, although he did me one.” ‘In what respect?” “That I must decline to state, Suffice to say, it was an injustice.” ‘Very well; I will bid you good-day. Itis evident that we don’t understand one another.” Dick took leave, and at the German saloon met Herr Ennis. * Vel, vot you make out?’ inquired the eccen- tric Teuton. ‘*] think I have found the ghost!” ‘* Vos it dot Seneca street woman?” ‘*1 am pretty positive of itt” Dick replied. *¢ Vel, v’ot you goin’ to do about it?” “Tm not prepared to say just now. Tveno positive evidence against her, more than that [ ‘am sure she is the one who personates the ghost. i want to be sure I’m all right; then I'll go ahead, with a vengeance. I want you to keep a close watch on that house. If Mabel Madden leaves it, you are to shadow her, Do you think you can do that?” ‘+ Tn course I can. Dot is peezness!” “ Allright. I will go and see Mr, Gleason, and the other Miss Madden, I will call around here before night and get pane report. Mind you, now, keep a close watch!” ** You bet I vil! If dot womans leaves dot house, I am after her, an’ don’t you forget it!” So Dick set forth in a perplexed mood, and irected his route toward Gleason’s house. On the way up Main street he encountered Billy Bucket, who had just finished his errand, ‘Well, Billy, any news?” Bristol inquired. a Yes. The old chap wants ter see ye, mighty bad! CHAPTER VII. THE LETTER, Dick and Billy at once proceeded to Gleason’s residence and found him in a very perturbed state of mind. “ Well, Mr. Gleason, what is it? Have you seen the ghost again?” demanded the detective, ‘No; but I have found something in connec- tion with the mystery. Read this, He then handed Dick a letter. It was in a woman’s hand, and a very good style of chirography it was, too. It was written on perfumed paper, and ran as follows: “Mr. James Gurason:—Four, eleven, forty-four! Fifty-nine days you have yet to live. Yuu bad bet- ter begin to make your final preparations, buy your outfit, engage your undertaker, and provide yourself with a burial-lot, if you have not one, already!” There was no signature, but, at the end of the message, was a rudely-drawn skull and cross- bones. ** When did you get this” Dick inquired. ** Less than an hour ago.” ‘* By whom?—as I see there is no post-mark on the envelope.” “It was brought to me by a telegraph mes- senger, from the main office.” ‘Do you remember his number?” “T think Ido. Jt was sixteen, if my memory serves me right. He was a red-headed boy, about twelve years of age.” ; “Well, I'll go and bunt up this 16. Come, Billy!” and forthwith the two set out for the agen which they were not long in ding. ‘“*T want to see Number 16,” Dick explained to one of the operatives, ‘* Call him for me, please!” Sixteen presently appeared, and proved to be a bright-looking lad. The chief clerk directed him to Dick, ** Want me, sir?” “You took a letter, to-day, to Mr. James Gleason?” ** Yes, sir.” ‘From whom did you receive it?” * From the chief clerk, sir.” “Did you see who left it with the chief clerk?” “Yes, sir. It was a nigger boy!” ‘‘Have you ever seen him before? Do you know where he is employed ? ‘No, sir, Ido not. I’ve seen him before, but I don’t know where he works,” Here the trail practically ended again, so, he and Billy took their departure. ‘Well, Dick, what next?” Billy asked. ‘“‘I reckon this job will cost us more time than der money will be worth, eb?” ** Maybe it will, but, my boy, the prospects are fair that we’lllay that ghost beforea week passes, We will now proceed to Seneca street, and see what Ennis has to report.” ew OU hain’t got that Dutchman on the string, too? ** You'd better be more respectful to Mr, Ennis, Billy, or you may get ina hole, If he is tanta- lized by your remarks, again, he may break your back for you.” ‘*Bah! That Dutchy break my back? Sauer- kraut and beer never yet kotched me a-sleepin’!” and Billy looked his disgust, When they arrived at the beer-saloon on Sen- eca street, they found Herr Ennis gazing meth- odically out of the glass door, his attention di- rected toward the house of Miss Mabel Mad- den. ‘¢ Well, Ennis, what is it?? Dick inquired on entering. ‘* Have you discovered anything?” “Vel, I don’d know. I watch dot house, but no vomans come out yet. It’ink you makes a mistakes apoudt dot lady, hey?” ‘*Possibly. Have you seena negro boy, or man, about the premises, since you have been here?” “Yes. Vonof dém just entered der house, an hour ago. I t’ink vot he vork there.” The trail was hot again. It was now as plain as day that he had discovered the tormentor of the haunted man. But, how was he to prove it clearly enough to warraut the arrest of Miss Madden? “ Well,” be continued, after some minutes of Geliberation, ‘‘ you remain here, Ennis, until two o'clock in the morning, and if you see no woman leave the house, go home and go to bed. If you do see a woman leave the bouse, follow her!’ “T vil, py cratious! I vil follow her vrom here to t’e banks of de Rhine!” The German’s zeal was very agreeable to the detective, who, as he turned away, felt that he was leaving a faithful ally to continue work in that quarter. They went at once to the bouse of the Division street Mabel Madden, for Dick’s curiosity in the matter was now ata white heat, Like asleuth- hound on the field he was growing more eager as he neared bis game, To visit Miss Madden, Number Two, was now the proper thing todo. Dick directed Billy to remain outside, while be had the interview, Then he gave the door-bell a pull, and, it not being answered the first time, followed it up with a second ring of considerable vigor. The woman who answered the summons was not only ugly of aspect, but, evidently the same in the wav of temperament. ‘““What d’ye want?” she demanded, her un- combed locks standing in confusion, ‘‘ Why do you come and startle a lady out of anafternoon’s rest?’ Her manner waseven more venomous than her words, and her eyes darted so much hostility at him that Dick was not reluctant to “go for” her at once. **As a detective employed by the United States, it isin my power to enter your bouse and demand any informaticn I may need. Are you inclined to give it amicably, or must I exercise my authority?” e had not miscalculated the effect that these words would have, The belligerent woman be- came meek at once, as well as startled. Dick, however, thought it the alarm of a naturally timid person, rather than that of a criminal. She made answer in a very subdued manner: “Tf Ican give you any information, sir, you are welcome to walk in. But, first, [ must see your authority.” th) BOF a CN ANCE A AM ALICE ES AAI. ac Mi EI LL TE IT A ASL ES A T E a B cern, know the exact cause of the breakin your engagement with Miss Mabel Mad en.” Dick exposed his badge, which immediately had effect, ‘‘Come right in,” she added. ‘‘ I don’t know what you are after, but you will find very little here to reward you, I am afraid.” The detective was conducted to a pleasant parlor. ‘* Ts this Miss Mabel Madden?” he asked, ‘Yes, sir.” ‘ Any relative of the other lady of the same name?” ‘*No, I was not even aware there was another Miss Madden.” ‘There is another, and she is young and quite pretty But that is not to the point. Do you snow James Gleason?” ‘‘T have heard of him, but 1 have never seen him, to know him. I believe, however, he isa retired speculator, from what I’ve heard.” ‘* Are you quite sure you have no personal acquaintance with him?” ‘*T am positive,” responded the woman, “I have no male associates, nor do I want any. Men are horrid creatures!” This was said withso much vim that Dick concluded it was inadvisable to continue investi- gation any further on that trail. So, ming he left. Miss Spinster Madden, joined Billy at the corner, and, in half an hour, they were once more in the presence of Mr. Gleason. ‘Well, what luck now?’ the haunted man asked, ‘* Nothing definite, but to-night may pan out better.” CHAPTER VIII. A GAME OF CARDS. NIGHT came on apace, and, with it, a severe storm. The lightning flashed and the thunder crashed in a way not calculated to inspire a person with courage, especially in a haunted house. Mr, Gleason was very nervous, and, at every flash and boom he started with terror, Dick noticed this, and, to alleviate the gentle- man’s suffering suggested a game of cards, to which Gjvason at once assented, Tt will drive off the horrors!” he replied, gloomily. This is going to be a tough night on ’ e. ‘Oh! take courage. It would dampen the ardor of any ghost to come around such a night as this,” Dick asserted, reassuringly. ‘* Don’t you believe it! The weather has no effect on it—none, whatever!” ‘© Well, we will see.” So they began with the cards. After they had played a few games Mr, Gleason’s spirits began to rise, and be became quite jovial. ‘* Maybe it won’t appear,” be said, cheerfully, “ But it will,” declared Billy Bucket, ‘“Thet aire ghost is close here, now!” “ What makes you think that?” “‘ Feel it in my bones, boss.” ~ ‘« Oh! your bones are ‘ rattled!” The game went on, and Gleason ordered a bottle of wine, j ‘“We may as well build up our courage,” he said, The wine was old and very pure—-very good building material, indeed, and calculated to brace up one’s spirits, Midnight, with all its gruesome somberness, rapidly advanced, and, with its approach, the nerves of the trio became more unsteady. Billy moved near a sofa, so as to be able to crawl under it in case Madam Specter should appear. Dick drew his revolver, and laid it on the table with the observation: ‘“ If the visitor comes to-night, she will wish she bad stayed where sbe came from!” ‘‘T don't believe a spirit can be shot,” Gleason declared, dubiously, ‘It don’t stand to reason,” “We will see about that. I am of the im- pression if I can get a bead on this gentle gazelle, again, I can make her ‘ holler.’ ” “*Tf you do, you know my promise, I'll make you a wealthy man!” ‘‘Oh! as far as that goes, I have little con- T am curious, however, Mr, Gleason, to off o Mr. Gleason looked glum, ‘‘ Well, I cannot tell you. I would if I could, but I cannot,” * Dare not, maybe?” Dick suggested, bluntly. “ Well, no, not exactly that; I cannot.” ‘“‘ There’s some secret between you?” “There may be, but it cannot bear any ser C) tion to this ghost business. It is impossib JIN A.
Page 6
et eat: 3 fae Say Sa LB a Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. and drawing a revolver, he bastened to the rescue, ; Billy followed, armed with a heavy iron po- ker, which he had discovered in a corner of the pantry. They reached the parlor to find Gleason groaning and gasping like a dying man on the sofa. ‘What's the matter? Are you taken ill?” Dick demanded. “T’ve -been stabbed!” moaned the ex-broker, and he exposed his shirt-front, which was cover- ed with blood! Dick quickly drew a knife and cut away the bosom, and found that it was only too true, Mr. Gleason had been stabbed in the breast. But the location of the wound did not make it necessarily fatal, ‘Who did this?’ Dick asked, peremptorily. **T don’t know,” groaned the stricken man. sey felt the pain and quickly awoke, but saw no. one, os this juncture Billy uttered a veritable w ‘ oe irate Herr Ennis evidently meant fight, u — The ghost was in their midst. Dick did not press the inquiry, but kept upa constant thinking, There was surely some important secret be- tween Gleason and Mabel Madden. Was there murder connected with the matter, or was it some piece of crookedness in business, or was it some personal wrong or indignity? The games ended sbortly before twelve o’clock both players being tired of the amusement, an under the belief that more serious work was to follow. “Purty near time for de ghost to come,” mut- tered Billy. ‘*‘Guess Ill take a sneak under de sofiar!” And under that article of furniture he crept. “T wouldn’t mind doing that, too,” admitted Gleason, “if I was not so big. Anything to es- cape that visitant.” ** Which simply meaus—anything to escape Mabel Madden!” averred the detective. ‘*Mabel Madden? What under the sun has she to do with the ghost.” “Everything to do with it! Ill swear to that! Now, look here, Mr. Gleason! There’sa mystery between you two people, and you may as well explain it. What crime have you ever committed, to cause this woman to dog ycu, or what injustice have you done her?” ** None, whatever!” “T know better, Excuse me if I seem rude, pe am positive that you are not telling the CHAPTER IX. THE GHOST AGAIN, Ir came as suddenly and mysteriously as usual. One moment the watching men were sure that they were alone in the room; the next, James Gleason recoiled with a gasp. The ghost stood by his side. Its lips moved, and upon his ears fell that dreaded utterance: ** Four, eleven, forty-four !” Deadwood Dick sprung to his feet, but, Ennis bounced directly in his way. The next moment the ghost was gone—where, no one couid tell, It left Gleason quaking with terror, while the German was as white as the mysterious phan- tom, itself, Billy Bucket could not be seen, but he was to be heard from, nevertheless. ““Hey, Dutchy, v’ot you t’ink apoud dot?” came in from under the sofa, with surprising cheerfulness. ** Himmel!” was all Ennis could say, for the time being, Later, he added: ‘* Py gracious! I dinks I vil go home, I like not dot peezness!” **Why didn’t you fire at it, Bristol?’ asked Gleason, “Give itup. I admit that I was struck silly as it was. I will * ite you a tip on one thing!” ** What is that?” “That ghost is human!” ** How do you know that?” ‘Because 1 smelt her breath! She had been eating onions!” This elicited a snort from under the sofa. Here was a chance to get in a word, “Dick!” crid Billy. ‘* Well, what is it?” ‘* Wasn’t it Dutchy’s breath you smelled?” “Py gracious!” cried the German, rallying, “‘sbust we vait until I get me dot poy, und you shall see me make anodders ghost, don’t it?” “Wait till you get de boy,” replied Billy, ‘fand then you kin shout.” Herr Ennis soon departed; one glimpse at the ghost was quite sufficient for him. After he had gone, Dick gbserved: “Well, Mr. Gleason, [’'vea notion we have seen the last of the ghost for to-night.” “IT fear not. It will come again, Itdid not utter that infernal ‘four, eleven, forty-four,’ and will not leave until thatis said, It never fails on that!” An hour passed, but no ghost appeared. “T reckon we might as well go to the hotel,” Dick then decided, ‘* For mercy’s sake, no!” “But there’s no use of our remaining here longer.” “There is; I dare not remain alone.” ‘Why not?” ** On account of that letter.” ‘*The letter won’t hurt you.” ‘*No; but Iam afraid of being murdered, I wouldn’t stay alone in this house again, fora fortune.” “Ob! pshaw! You’veno nerve, but Ill stay.” Billy enlivened the occasion with several songs, He had a good voice, and, like most street gam- ins, ‘caught on” te every new song that came out at any of the theaters, ; This served somewhat to dispel Mr. Gleason’s go and also kept Dick awake, tired and eepy as he was. About three o’clock Gleason lay down upon the sofa and went to sleep. ‘*Now, Billy, let’s investigate the pantry, and see if we can’t scare up something to eat,” Dick oo op “Tam as hungry asa wolf.” * Me, too, you bet!” So they searched until they discovered the pantry, and there found an abundance of cold meats and wine, Upon these they made an agreeable lunch, r. Gleason evidently was a good liver, if he was a haunted man. ‘This am a snap,” commented Billy. ‘Feller kin afford to put up with ghosts fer sake of a feed like this.” ‘* Well, yes. But, if Gleason should catch us devouring his viands, it might not beso interest- ing. We have his permission, but he wasn’t on to our appetites.” “No fear, WNe’s sound asleep, and won’t wake up till mornin’.” ' _So they finished their repast, making a con- siderable deficit in the Gleason larder. They bad only just finished when they heard a loud yell, as if some one were inpain. It came from the parlor. - ** Something’s gone wrong!” muttered Dick, owl. ** Look! look!” he cried. ‘‘ Der writing on the wall!” ; Mr. Gleason’s room was papered in white satin paper of gloss finish, On the opposite side from the sofa, written in crimson on the wall, were these now-ominous words: “Four, ELEVEN, FoRtTY-FouR.” Deadwood Dick gazed in dumfounded silence at the strange inscription. It was a fresh proof of the audacity of the intruder, ghost or human being, which angered bim, ‘* Doomed |—doomed !” Gleason gasped, in bor- ror. ‘* Nonsense!” Bristol retorted. ‘‘ Will you let. Sa be influenced by this transparent hum- ug! Beaman! Here, Billy, go and get some water from the kitchen. We must bind up this wound, and stop the flow of blood.” ““Gimme your revolver! Don’t ketch me out _ in der kitchen ’thout I’m armed. Oh/ no!” asseverated Bi'ly. Dick loaned him one of his revolvers, and the gamin hastened to fill the order. He soon returned with the water. Dick proceeded to do his work with deft skill. He succeeded in stopping the flow of blood, and then bound up the wound. After that he ad- ministered a narcotic, which, by the old aie man’s direction, he found upon the mante), Gleason presently dozed cff, and that ended the results of the night, j - The ghost did not again appear, and every ef- fort of the detective and his ally failed to throw light upon the strange affair. Gleason awoke at seven, feeling much stron- ger and quite cheerful, and after, by Dick’s directions to the servant, he had been served - with a cup of beef-tea, he anzounced that his pain was less, and that he felt quite comfort- Mr. Gleason arose indignantly, but immedi- ately sat down again, for there came a rap upon the door. They did not hurry to answer it. “Der ghost!” whispered Billy. ‘I told yer so. I knew et was near. Here’s luck! Til look on while you fellers aire wrastilin’ wid de ani- mile. Don’t ketch me out o’ cover ag’in, ter- night!” ‘Mr, Gleason, do not be alarmed,” Dick di- rected, for his employer had turned deathly pale; “it’s not the ghost, I’ll vouch,” and he en- te the hall and flung open the outer door. Instead of the ghost, it was the Teuton De- tective, Herr Ennis. ‘* Goot-evening, Bristles,” the visitor saluted, in a quiet way. ‘‘How you vas, and all der rest of you?” **Allalive. How are you, Mr, Ennis?” **Oh! I vas peautifool. How is dot spooks? Seen ’em, yet? Vas she appeared?” ‘No; but we are expecting the specter every sone I presume you have something to re- rt “Yes, lbave. I haf soomet’ing to dells you, else I shouldn’t be here. V’at you tink? Shust after you left me, I met a friendt of mine on de sidevalk, shust oudside dot saloon, While I vas talking mit dot friendt, dis Miss Mabel Madden she comes up to me, and says: ‘ V’at you vatch around dis neighborhood for? ‘“‘T got mad an’ I told her to go to der tuyfel.” - Weil, what next?” “Vel, den she got on top of her ear, and marched off. I follered her, shust like dot dog v’at dey call de sleuth-hound; but ste somehow got oud of my vay, and I could find her no more, But, she comes oud this way, and I vil bet a five dollars vot she is de ghost! “Very likely, Come into the parlor, Mr. Ennis.” The foregoing conversation had occurred in the hall, ; When they entered the room Gleason arose and greeted the German cordially. “Ennis, I am most glad to see you.” ‘* Der same mit you, sir.” “Have you any good news?” “Vel, not very good. Bristles can, perhaps, dells you better as I. I have alreadty oxblained to him all v’at I knows apout dose t’ings con- cerning dot ghost!” ‘ Dick then made known tbe result of Herr En- nis’s investigation, ** You think, then, that this Madden woman came to this neighborhood?” asked Gleason, with great anxiety. “*T vos sure of it.” ** At what time did you see her last?” “Yust apoud dark. She wandered about Main street, and then she comes to Niagara street; and I follows her tillshe dodge me. Den, I hunt around vor her, but id is no use,” “Oh! you are no good!” cried Billy Bucket, from under the sofa, ‘Your name is Dennis! I could do better than that myself!” Ennis glared around him, in a rage. ** Ver’ is dot young scamps? I vill schoost preak his head for him!” - “Not much you won't, Dutchy! That head is cabbage proof. When a feller can survive a k house fallin’ on his head, I guess there is no sauer-krauter kin break it.” able. '“ Did you see anything more of it?” he asked. “No, Jt did not come back, if you refer to the ghost. I shall try to investigate it, to- day. But, Mr. Gleason, what’s the secret between you and Mabel Madden? If I de not have this, I leave for New York, at 10:30!” ‘*-You still cling to the belief that it is she?” ‘*No doubt about it. I have seen the woman, and I have seen her perfect counterpart in what you claim to be a Fie She and the ghost are oue. Now, you told me that Mabel Madden did not resemble tke ghcst, as you choose to term it. You deliberately deceived me, But, as I have said, before I go further with the case I shal? have to demand a strictly truthful statement of matters, or else my services can be replaced by some one else’s.” “ Wait; don’t go,” the man pleaded, ‘ Let me think over the thing. You shall lose nothing by your visit to Buffalo, even if my lips do re- main sealed, I must have time to consider.” ‘* Well, be lively about it. I’m getting some- what out of patience @ ‘So am I,” put in Dilly Bucket, *‘We want to hear der hull bizness!” CHAPTER X. MISS MADDEN’S VERSION. ‘* WELL,” explained Gleason, after mature re- _ flection, ‘‘it was two years ago that I first met. Mabel Madden,” a Here be paused in deep reflection, ‘*The young one who lives on Seneca street?” questioned Dick. ‘ “Yes, I think it was at a picnic somewhere in the province of Ontario—oh! I know, now! 1 had gone over to Niagara City on a business. errand, and was there introduced to her. She was a charming young woman, and, although L APs a Oe ‘ % re ‘a ey er OA Ree ek ees *- ‘ fs ire A J co eae yee
Page 7
am pretty well alo n enamored of her, We had several suppers to- gether, and became fast friends almost befo e we knew it. One day, when we were out driv- ing, she made a most singular proposal.” ** What was it?” ‘¢ Well, at the time, I carried the largest stock of furs in the city, principally seal goods. This was a side business of mine, She suggested, that we go into the smuggling business. She would buy the goods in Canada and have them sent across the border, and would share in this lessening of the expense and enlarging the profits!” ‘““You consented, I suppose, to the proposi- tion?” ‘Yes; I must confess [ did. I have regretted it ever since; and if you, as a gentleman and likewise a bloodhound of the law, won’t give away this confidence of a man who has suffered the torture of the damned, I shall feel very grateful,” ‘‘ Very well,” replied Dick, ‘‘Go ahead with the explanation. What occurred afterward? Did she betray you?” “She tried. After I would no longer cling to the business, she used every device to get me into trouble, Let her go ahead, if it be she who is g to play the ghost racketon me. I will make it the dearest job she ever tried!” **T don’t know about that. If you were to tackle her, and have been papaily guilty, you are just as likely to get wo , 23 otherwise,” “ Why should I? I have reformed, and, at the beginning, she was the tempter.” *Can you prove it?” “Perhaps not, but I could make matters warm for her.” “Well, will you acknowledge that the woman who appears to your vision is this Madden wo- man?” the detective asked, ‘‘ Well, yes, she resembles her somewhat; but, when I knew her, she was not so pale.” ‘*T think she is the apparition.” * But, how does sue gain entrance to my house? She has no key, and my servant locks the doors.” The ex-broker was sure that his servants were beyond being bribed, and how Miss Madden— if, indeed, the ghost was she—could gain en- trance to the house was almost as strange as her antics when once there. About noon, Dick and Billy took leave of the old gentleman and went for a stroll to see the city. Gleason’s wound was doing well, and there was no danger in his remaining in charge of his man servant. The injury was not such as to require medical aid. : o Dick and Billy wandered down to the great river and along its cvurse down to the railway bridge. mole When they arrived at the bridge which reaches to the Canada side, they met with a sur- prise in the shape of Miss Mabel Madden, She gave a startled glance, and then, instead of fleeing, approached the detective, ‘ “Well, sir, have you seen the ghost again?” **No, I have seen you, however?” Dick re- torted. ‘* Where?” ‘‘In Mr. Jaines Gleason’s house, exactly at the hour of twelve,” ‘No, you didn’t! I was in my own bed at that hour, and I can prove it by my servant.” “Your servant be blowed! I saw you, with my own eyes.” ‘I guess you must have borrowed a pair of false ones, for I surely was at home.” “Yes, if you consider Gleason’s ‘Figo home!” % Not much, I don’t! Vd die, if in bis pres- ence! “Yet you didn’t use to beso vicious, when were smuggling furs!” Dick retorted. ‘It’s @ wonder you didn’t turn around and stab Mr, Gleason before last night.” f This was a shot that went home with a ven- geance. Miss Madden turned white and eved Dick for a moment in silence as if fearful of the results of an investigation, **T don’t know what vou mean, sir!” “Oh! don’t Ee pe Well, that is exceedingly strange, Miss Madden, when, in some as yet un- known manner, you entered Mr, Gleason’s house last night, and stabbed him in the breast.” ‘I did nothing of the sort, and you are a liar if you say so! Now, come with me to my house and hear my version of the story, and I think you will agree that I am in the right. I was not inclined to give you any information at first, but since that old rascal, Gleason, has given part of the business away, I will, in self-defense, give you the rest of it.” ma" ‘ pple es nee aR Pe. arbevageet sped in years, I became rather | Deadwood Dick, Jr, in Buffalo. So they took the cars and went to Seneca street, to the resideuce of Miss Madden. On entrance to the cozy little parlor, Miss Madden excused herself while she removed her wraps. In the parlor were two young, ladies, who were engaged in arranging feathers for hat- work, One of them was exceedingly pretty, and Dick noticed that she cast sby glances at him occasionally. This gave him an idea, Here was an inmate of Miss Madden’s house who might, perhaps, know something of interest. Could she be made useful? Dick took out a note-book and wrote the fol- lowing lines: “ What pay are you getting for your work here? Would you exchange for another, and better paying position, if convinced that it was in every way hom orable and satisfactory? This means business, but I cannot talk here; do not even address me. If willing to see me outside at some future time, and hear my offer, please bow.” He handed this to her, unseen by the second irl, The recipient of the note looked surprised, th before and after reading, but, after study- ing Dick’s face, bowed slightly. Shs then wrote an adiress, and returned the note, The detective wrote one more question: ‘* What name?” ‘Stella Starr.” Dick took down the name and address, and by this time Miss Madden re-entered, attired in a becoming habit. ‘Step into the back-parlor, gentlemen,” she directed, and Dick and Billy followed her. They were given seats, and then Miss Madden resumed: ‘*Ts Mr. Gleason dangerously hurt?” ‘* Well, possibly not fatally, though he has got a bad wound,” was the guarded reply. “Does be claim that J stabbed him?” **No; but J do!” **Oh! I don’t care a fig for what you claim. You detectives are the most disreputable class of people on the face of the earth. However, that is neither here nor there.” Her manner was wholly insolent, but Bristol heard her without the least visible offense. “You may know detectives better before this case is ended,” he replied, calmly; ‘‘the State Prison may teach you manners.” “The question is concerning my experience witb James Gleason?” “Exactly so. Your information may throw some light on the subject. It is my intention to solve this mystery. Rows, go on with your ex- planation !” “Who is this boy with you?” ‘“ My partner, or, as we say in the West, my side-partner. Goon, He must hear!” ‘* When I first met Gleason,” began Miss Madden, more rag ‘*T was a clerk in a little dry goods store on Niagara street, earning a salary so small that I could barely support my- self. I went over to the Canadian side, and it was there that I first met James Gleason, As before said, I was very poor at that time, and as he was a gallant sort of a masher, I thought, perhaps, [ mighc do well to court his favor. It seems that, by so doing, I have not succeeded very well.” ‘“No; not at all, Well? ‘* He persists that I am haunting him?” “No, J persist!” ‘* What makes you doit? I have never been in the man’s house, Have I not already told you that? Isn’t my word good?” mn asia oe But it is not always well for a de- tective to believe all be hears,” ‘¢ Well, perhaps when you hear the balance of my story, you will believe me.” ~ “That depends, If it is reasonable, maybe I shall, Go ahead!” ** Well,” continued Miss Madden, in the course of time I became engaged to Gleason, and, most likely, should have married hin, but a row en- sued between us, and we became strangers again. So there you have it allina nutshell, I have not seen Gleason lately, nor do I want to!” This ended the interview, and Dick and Billy took leave, “What think, boss?” inquired the gamin. “Give it up, Billy. Either the woman is a skillful liar, or she tells the truth. Take your choice,” ** Bet she lies!” “‘T shouldn’t like to wager much on her ve racity.” ** She says Gleason was a smuggler, an’ he says she wasone, How d’yer patch that up? “It may be that the pot is calling the kettle black, with both of them, Anyhow, the wo- man is coarse, hot-tempered and cranky,” Then they returned to the hotel. CHAPTER XI. TILFORD TAKES A HAND. Axsout opposite Fisher's Point dwelt s | man named Tilford. He was a fisherman by profession. The next day Billy and Dick paid a visit to the beach, encountered this fisherman, and requested the pleasure of accompanying him on a trip. Big. He cheerfully gave his consent for the con: » sideration of half a dollar each, and they set forth in a long, rakish-looking rowboat. ’ The river was alive with smal! craft, and Tilford proved to be an adept at capturing the finny tribe. ‘*You’re a dandy at the business!” Dick exclaimed, after watching awhile. ‘‘ Well, sir, I orter be, considerin’, I’ve been at it fer ten years. But, I don’t always have this sort of luck. There's them as cap beat me all holler, an’ one of ’em is a woman —a young and darned purty gal, too.” ‘*Indeed! What is her name?” ; ‘Stella Starr. She is not only a fisher- woman, but also a milliner.” ; Here was news! Could it be the Stella Starr whom Dick had seen at Miss Madden’s? “Where does this versatile young lady live?” Dick inquired. ‘Dunno, just exactly; but 1 believe she works on Seneca street, somewhere. Mighty fine gal she is, too! She has an old crippled mother to support, as well as a blind father, and I tell ye she has to hustle to make ends meet. Iallow she don’t make much at the milliner business, so she gits up at daybreak, comes out on the river and hauls in the fish in great shape. Then she goes ashore, selle them to the fish-dealers, and skips off to her other work.” ‘* How does she doin winter? She can't stand the bitter weather, can she?” ‘“Sarv’in sure. Why, sbe kin stand as much cold as the toughest of us, I've known her to be out the coldest days, and if I do say it— Hello! . ‘* What’s the matter?” ‘‘ Why, here she comes now!” ‘‘Whom do you mean?” “The gal I was tellin’ you about- Stella Starr. Je! look at her!—don’t she pull a bully oar! Bet my mess of fish she can beat any man on the river! I’m somewhat of ap -oarsman, but I don’t count myvelf fer equal.” Miss Starr was coming up the river at good speed in a boat of only ordinary stvle, And she could row, no mistake, for sh soon overtook Tilford. é ‘‘Hello! pop! Want to buy my hau} I've got a day off and want te unload!” war her greeting. ; ‘* Well, come alongside,” Tilford directed, ‘and let me see how many you've got.” Miss Stella did as directed. She was at- tired in a lady’s sailor suit, and Se looked very interesting; but, what struc Dick as singular, was that her pretty bande could manipulate the cars so skillfully. + Tilford looked at the .mess of fish with the eye of a critic. i, The quantity and size exceeded his own, “Jee whizz! Where'd ye get ’em, Stel?” **Down the river.” ‘ ‘* By ginger! they are sag sg Vl give you—Jemme see!—two dollars for the lot.” ‘‘ Not a cent less than five, Mr. Tilford. J can get that at the market.” Mr. Tilford evidently knew this, for he forked over a ‘“‘ V” with alacrity. ' ‘All right!” he acquiesced; ‘‘ toss ‘em over here into the buat. You've got the bess of me on this bargain, but I will take good care you don’t on the next.” ‘“‘When any one has a chance to gei the best of you on a bargain, Mr. Tilford, it_wil} be when the world comes to an end. How- ever, here are the fish!” Then, with her beautiful hands; she began to toss the fish over into Tilford’s boat. a ‘ 4 is oF
Page 8
Fine ee a ee a oe eS ” . ‘ —% *, > be Ps a, ial | be Son co aia 4 = —— ag eet 7, a Cee) Pa a Fa ay a | hee Pras. ee at Miss Madden’s?” Dic rh ee * Can't I ry you?” asked Dick. ** Yon would soil your hands, sir,” ‘That is a matter of no moment, can easily be washed.” So Dick stepped over into her boat and as- sisted her, Billy acting as ‘‘short-stop,” They Sonaatheenin - Peat een ee ‘ me ET NS Te ee ee i en eee me ee PEt ete Sere. | ks Mead on Say tenet es gear Mek, Jr, fn himself pretty well to his own house.” “* Have you ever heard Miss Madden men- tion him?’ “Yes; [think I have. After your visit to her house she said that she wished that whenever a fish threatened to go over the | Gleason and you were in Hades.” other side of Tilford’s boat. As soon as the cargo was transferred, Miss | the American and Starr turned to Dick and observed: ‘‘If you want to see me in reference to the note, perhaps now will be the most avail- able opportunity. liam going to take a row down the river, and we can chat as we go.” “Very well. friend with me?” ‘*T have no objections. pick him up?” ‘In New York.” ‘“‘T thought so. I was once a newsgirl in New York, and came in contact with these gamins. Call your friend aboard, and we will be off. I fancy [know where I can catch a big haul of white fish, and maybe some bass. the river in schools, now.” So Billy was called aboard, and the trio set off down the river. cme Starr at the oars, but she laughed at im. They are beginning to come to. | dollars, now; if you need more, come to the | | letter awaiting you there. Dick requested the privilege of relieving | | They were gliding down the river,-between anadian shores—city on one side and beautiful vistas on the other. “‘I want to employ you,” Dick said to Stella, ‘‘ but I must be assured of your utter fidelity.” “Tf you think I can be of any aid to you, Shall I take my young _ I shall be happy to hear your proposal, sir. But, I would not want to do anything that Where did you | would anger my employer.” “e If you lose your employment with the | Madden woman, I will see your salary paid until you get another job.” ‘* What do you want me to do, sir?” ‘Watch Miss Mabel Madden! Never let her get out of your sight, especially at night. If she leaves her house, you are to follow her every movement. I wiil give you ten Tifft House, and you will find either me or a Will you enter my service?” | Miss Starr looked perplexed. ** Are you sure you could get me another ‘Why, you can’t pull!” she declared. | position?” ** What do you know about boating? ‘You | ou know esterner. may be able to ride a horse, but nothing of this work. You are a | ‘Tf not, I will, out of my own purse, put up all the money you need.” It was clear that Stella was a conscientious I can tell that much, and boats don’t run on_| young lady, so the detective, without betray- the prairies!” From the vicinity of Black Rock the trip toward the lake is a most charming one, more especially when the heavy mist is lift- ed from off Lake Erie. At least, so it oc- curred to Dick and Billy. “Now,” resumed Stella, ‘‘what do you want to know of Miss Madden?” ** Well, in the first place, do you live in the same house with her?” “Part of the time. The other part I spend at home with my parents.” ‘* Where do your parents reside?” ** Out on Fourteenth street.” ‘Do you ever spend the night with Miss Madden?” ‘* Yes, quite frequently.” ‘‘Puring these times, has she been ac- customed to go out evenings?” Miss Starr reflected. ** Well, on several occasions I have awak- ened and not found her in bed with me, but aupposed she was somewhere about the house. As a rule, I sleep in a separate room.” » ‘*Do you remember the hours when you missed her? Was it about midnight?” ** About eleven.” ‘‘Hum! That would be just about time,” Dick muttered. “By George! I am more than ever convinced of it,” » “Of what?” “That I am nearing the climax of what fas hitherto been a mystery.” ‘*May I ask what that is?” ‘* Miss Madden is playing ghost!” This caused Miss Starr to laugh. “Playing ghost?” she echoed. ‘‘ What makes you think that? She is a pretty healthy-looking ghost, is she not?” ' “ Nevertheless, she is playing that dodge, and I am sure of it. Have you any knowl- edge of Mr. James Gleason?” **No, [have not. Idon’tknow— Wait; fet me think. Yes. Is he the ex-stock- broker?” _ “That is the man." ‘* He lives on Niagara street, don’t he?” 6s Yes,” ‘‘Oh, I know him; he sometimes comes down along the river and watches us catch- ing fish.” ou never saw him inquired. ‘* Yes, sir; I never saw him in that part of * You are quite sure the city. From what I can judge, he keeps which proved to be a beautiful apartment, puted up as only a gentleman of means can | | | ‘ aud I will eat it,” Billy retorted. tone up. These was the coziest of carpets upon the floor, rich hangings upon the wall, and damask curtains at the windows. The furniture was elegant. . It was a place fit for a prince to pass away his idle hours. “What do you think of it?” asked Mr. Gleason. **Very fine!” replied Dick. ‘‘ It must have cost you a good sum to fit it up so splendidly.” ‘It did. I am not a stingy man, and what I do, or get, I have of the best. Now look at the fable!” It was a beautiful one, made by the famous Collenders, and apparently built to order. The cushions were what is known in billiard parlance as very ‘‘lively,” and the solid frame was of mahogany, with silver mount- ings. ** Now,” directed Mr. Gleason, ‘‘ I’! look on while you and your young friend play a game. It will give me more pleasure than to play myself.” ‘*Pshaw! Bucket can’t play!” Dick af- firmed. ‘* What does a boy know about bil- liards? just for the fun of it.” “Tf I don’t beat you, goand ketch a snake “*T wasn’t raised around the ’ristocratic parts o' New York ’thout being onto der games, you bet!” So the balls were produced and the game began, Dick proposing that it be for sixty | ing any important part of his business, said | points. enough to reassure and satisfy her, The compact was at length made, and he 8 another ally who promised to be valua- ble, CHAPTER XII. BILLY’S BIG BILLIARDS. Tue day being a beautiful one, Dick and his boy partner continued along with Miss Starr, not in the Jeast averse to her com- panionship, for she was a charming conver- sationalist, and taught them much about fishing that they had never kaown before. At noon they returned and had luncheon, and then Dick and Billy went back to Mr. Gleason’s. They found the old gentleman doing finely. He was up and able to be about, although he was quite pale. ‘Well, what's the best word?” Dick asked. ‘‘Have you seen any more ghosts?” ‘‘Thank heavens, no! What have you found out?” ‘* Very little, I do not propose to disclose what discoveries I have made until later on. I am of the opinion that I am on the right trail, however.” Mr. Gleason went to his safe and returned with fifty dollars, which he gave to Dick. **You can have more if you need it,” he observed. ‘‘No; this will answer all present pur- poses. By the way, has Ennis been around since I was here last?” No.” **T guess he won’t be. Well, we will wait here until night. I suppose you will not ob- ject to a little company, eh?’ ‘*Indeed I don’t object,” replied Gleason. “‘It_ will be a god-send. I havea private billiard-room, and, if you know anything about the game, we will amuse ourselves.” “Bet I can beat both of you!” asseverated Billy. ‘‘ Didn’t know I was der boss of der Bowery, did you? Well, I jest are! I got an iron medal fer bein’ an expert!” ** What did you do, Billy? What did you score?” ‘* Scored der hull business! Tell yer what, I’m some on bilyerds, You put up der sugar an’ I’]] agree ter knock out Slosson, or any der rest of de perfesh’nals!”’ Confident of victory, Dick played rather recklessly, at first. e reckoned without his host, however, for it soon became ap- parent that his boy partner knew as much about the game as himself. Bristol led off with’a run of nineteen. Mr. Bucket followed with four. Then Dick made a foul. Billy followed with a score of eleven points. ‘“‘That’s exceedingly singular!” exclaimed Gleason. ‘** What is singular?” Dick inquired. ‘* Why, those prophetic numbers—four and. eleven!” Dick laughed. . ‘*Pshaw! they have no significance.” ‘Go on with the game, and you will find that the boy’s first three scores will be four, eleven, forty-four !” And he was right in the prediction. Dick’s run was twenty, which he considered to be exceedingly good, and which he believed would ‘‘rattle” Master Bucket, but it did not have that effect. Billy’s next score was exactly forty-four, as Mr. Gleason had predicted, which left him only one point to go. ‘*There! what did I tell you?” cried Glea- son, rising excitedly and pacing the floor. ‘“‘Those infernal numbers again! Four, eleven, forty-four! What do you think now?” ‘‘The coincidence is both singular and striking,” the detective admitted, ‘* but, of course, it is nothing more. I hope you don’t believe that the ghost governed our runs?” *« Yet you can’t deny the evidence of your eyes and senses. You have seen the super- natural visitor; you have heard those ac- cursed words uttered; and now your boy companion has run out the mysterious num- bers at billiards!” Dick did not reply, but set to work and ran the game out, much to the disgust of ay who considered that he had a sure thing. Gleason and Dick then played a couple of games, after which they returned to the par- : lor, where they spent the balance of the after- noon. As their talk did not interest Billy, he went out fora stroll around the neighbor- © they adjourned to the billiard-room, | hood. However, I will try him a game,
Page 9
ea ee. Bs tie e was gone until near dusk. When he returned, his face was beaming with smiles. ‘Well, Billy, what is it?” Dick asked. ~ i look in particularly good-humor.” ‘d-am.* ‘*What is the cause?” ** Been playin’ policy—der numbers have just come out, and I’m a clear hundred dol- lars in pocket.” ** Get out!” “Fact, boss! I’ve got the sugar right in my pocket. I near bu’sted the bank, and de feller what wrote der polercy kicked like a Texan steer. But he doughed over the money, all der same, when I threatened ter have him pulled in if he didn’t.” ‘“You young rascal! What numbers did you choose?” ** Guess.” *‘Nonsensef How should I be able to guess?” ‘* Well,” declared Billy, with a broad grin, ‘it was der ‘coon’ numbers—four, eleven, forty-four!” ** Well, you are in luck.” ** What about the kerincidence o’ the num- bers?” ** Chance, and nothing more, You played; you chose your desired numbers; you won. That is all there is to it.” * Reckon you won’t be converted, no- how.” ‘‘T intend to stick to common sense!” Deadwood Dick retorted. When the evening was well advanced, Mr. ‘Gieason arose. ‘‘Nearly twelve o’clock!” he observed. gravely. ‘‘ It is about time for the specter.” “IT suspect that we shall not see it to- night.” answered Dick. **Why not?”. ‘Cunning as your phantom visitor has proved herself, she must know—if she is a creature of the flesh—that there is a limit to imposture. I am prepared for her. She will be rash to come again.” At that moment there was a knock at the outside door. ‘«The servant has retired,” remarked Glea- son. ‘‘ Will you answer it, Billy?” “Not me, boss!” was the prompt response. “Tl go!” volunteered Dick ‘‘I’ll per- forate the ghost with bullets, if itis 7. I think more likely that it is Ennis.” “Possibly. If it is any one else, don’t ad- mit them, Answer the summons, and we will see what develops.” This time it did not prove to be Ennis, but Stella Starr. ‘ Come in!” Deadwood Dick quickly di- rected. ‘*No,” she replied; ‘‘I cannot stop. I have only come to report.” ‘*Then you have news?” “Yes. I have been following Mabel Madden. She has been over on the Cuna- dian side twice, and each time I followed close after her. She has a little row-boat, and in it went across the line, I followed in the boat I usually use.” ** Where did she go?” “To old Fort Erie. You cannot guess her errand.” “‘T will leave you to tell me, Miss Starr,” “She took a train for Niagara City. I took the same train ina different coach. She went to a wholesale jobbing house that deal in laces, feathers aia fine fire When she emerged from this store she carried a bundle of considerable size.” “Yes, I see. But, how is it custom offi- cers did not investigate her package?” “Qh! she’s cute, for, instead of coming over in her own boat, she employed a man ‘to row it across to Black Rock, where there are no custom officials, while she, with het _ baggage, came over by way of the Inter- national Bridge. As I could not follow her, I went back to the store. When she came I | _ Was busy at work, so she had no suspicion | ° of her. **Have you any idea where she took her smuggled goods?’ ‘‘ Yes; to a store in which Gleason is in- terested. She left them there.” ‘* Gleason claims to be out of business.” ‘* Yes; but while not an active partner in the proper sense of the word, he has inter- ests to further,” ‘*But, surely, if they are enemies, she would not sell her smuggled goods to him.” ‘‘T have reasoned that out. Although Gleason has money in the store business, he is never seen there as a partner, and rarely in any way. Probably he does not know their customers, and probably, too, Miss Madden does not know he has an interest there.” ‘* Well reasoned!” ‘*One word more and I will go. The last Isaw of Miss Madden she was near this house. When I lost sight of her I came to make my report.” Deadwood Dick felt that he had cause to be grateful to his fair assistant, and he thanked her warmly. She then took her departure and Bristol returned to Gleason’s room, ‘Who was there?” the latter asked. “One of my helpers; a lady whom I need not name. Her report satisfies me that I have located your artful schemer and ghost correctly.” ‘*T still doubt it, but goon, Why do you think she is such an artful schemer?” ‘* Well, my agent followed Mabel over to the Canadian side. There, she purchased furs, and brought them back here to Buf- falo.” ‘* Well, what then?” “These goods weresmuggled. You must surely know something about it,” ‘*T do not.” ‘‘The smuggled property was disposed of my having been maneuvering against ” . at a store in which you are said to have a, pecuniary interest.” ‘*1?” cried Gleason, with considerable show of surprise. ‘‘lt is false; you have been wrongly informed. 1 have no such business interest.” ** Then let us say no more about it,” Dead- wood Dick responded, impatiently. ‘‘ Your ghost may come next; for the Madden wo- man has been seen near here, Are you ready for the phantom?” ‘** Don’t ask me, but let us do something to kill time.” So the trio sat down at a table and in- dulged in a sociable of cards, awaiting the arrival of Miss Madden, the ‘* spook,” But, the night passed, and Miss Madden did not materialize. James Gleason uttered a long sigh of relief when dawn began to stream in through the windows ‘““Thank God!” he said. ‘One night passed, without seeing the apparition. I hope many another will!” **T do, too, for your sake,” Dick replied. ‘‘But, [ fear it is a vain hope. If the Mad- den woman has set her mind on badgering the life out of you, she will not desist until she has succeeded in her game.” ‘*Curse her! I'll have her arrested this very day!” Gleason declared. ‘* Dave you? Won't she turn the tables on you, and won’t you get the worst of it?” The question nettled Gleason. ‘*Bah!” he cried. ‘‘She cannot prove anything to my injury.” ; But Gleason did not again refer to his plan of having Mabel arrested. . CHAPTER XIII. DICK RECEIVES STRANGE NEWS. Just after daylight breakfast was served, when Dick and Billy returned to the hotel, and indulged in a solid forenoon’s sleep. After dinner they hired a hack and were Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo, driven out to the race course, saw a few run- ning races, and then were conducted to vari- ous points of interest, including the parade ground, the Park and the Historical Museum. By the time they arrived back at the hotel, it was supper-time. . Dick was at once given a surprise in the shape of an announcement from the chief clerk. ‘ ‘Lady wishes to see you, sir!” ‘A lady? Did she give her name?” “Yes. It was Mrs. Gleason, the divorced wife of James Gleason!” ‘* James Gleason, of Niagara street?” “ee. ate, ‘*T thought he was a bachelor.” ‘“‘Not much!” replied the clerk, ‘‘ I’ve heard say that he had several wives living!” ‘‘Is it possible?” demanded Bristol, in amazement, ‘«So goes the report.” Leaving Billy, Dick ascended to the parlor to interview Mrs. Gleason. She was a: matron of perhaps forty-five years, round-faced and rather inclined to vortliness. She was still what many would call handsome. She was accompanied by a small boy who, in feature, very closely resembled the lady. ‘You are the Mr. Bristol who is a detec- tive, I believe?” she questioned, when he had given his name. ‘*-Yes, madam.” ‘“You are in the employ of my husband, James Gleason?” ‘‘T am in the employ of James Gleason— es. But, I supposed that he was a bache- or.” ‘Well, he is not. He is my husband, and this is his child. The chief of police in- formed me that you were detailed to hunt up a ghost that haunts Mr. Gleason.” ‘*Yes. I was summoned all the way here from New York, for that very purpose,” The lady seemed to know the whole story, and Dick did not see fit to lose any time in denials, ‘‘Have you seen the ghost?” she contin- ued. : ‘“Well, no; not exactly, I’ve seen some- thing which many would believe to be a ghost, and which strangely appears and dis- appears; but, as I do not believe in super- natural materializations, I am inclined to the opinion that this particular ghost is wholly human,” replied Dick. y Mrs, Gleason shrugged her matronly shoulders and smiled. “‘T have heard about the case,” she ob- served, ‘but never, like yourself, take any stock in apparitions. Do you have any idea who is playing the ghost?” “T can answer that question better by asking one: Have you any knowledge of one Mabel Madden, who lives on Seneca street?” ‘¢ Yes, I have.” ‘* What do you know of her?” “Nothing in her favor, It was on her account that I left Gleason.” ** Why so?” ‘*Because he spent more time in her soci- ety than in mine. I finally objected, but without effect. They were allies in some ‘crooked’ work, though I do not know just what. No doubt they are still allies.” *‘Are you divorced?” ‘‘No; but his first wife was, She did not live with him two months. She is now de- ceased.” ‘‘How long since you lived with Glea- MOUY sa: “Over two years.” Dick reflected. “You think, Mrs, Gleason, that my em- ployer is a rascal?” tai Yes.”’ *« And that he is still engaged in farious business?” . “T haven't a doubt of it, sir—not a single doubt,” “You are inclined to the theory that he some ne-
Page 10
. hee Tro er ees gee ake Pp oats = he Vgqee™ 7 a Ps - > iF; iS eee te : + - pow it wa et IONS PRENOESS Deadwood SA ASE Dick, Jr., in and Mabel Madden are working in collusion, I see?” “Lam.” ‘Then why this ghost racket?” ‘*T don’t know as I can answer that ques- tion. That he is worried, there can be no doubt. But he deserves to be worried, the scoundrel!” and her eyes flashed vengefully. “You are vindictive,” ‘*T have reason to be. I hate him—sate him! Hanging is too good for the wretch!” and she left the room without giving any definite reason for her call. The detective could but wonder if this fresh incident had particular meaning. Returning to the grand reception-room be- low, Dick encountered his German aid, Herr Ennis. : ‘‘What have you got to communicate?” Dick asked. ‘*Vel, 1 vatch der ’ouse of dot Mabel Mad- den, and I find me oud nottings. She stay in der’ouse. So I takes a look around Gleason’s,” ‘* What did you see or learn?” ‘He had a caller.” ‘‘Man or woman?” ‘‘ A vomans!” “Old or young?’ ‘*Middle aged. her.” ‘*Ah! How was she dressed?” ‘In black. She wore a vail.” The description vividly recalled Mrs, Glea- son, but it seemed absurd to believe that it had been she. ‘Did she enter the house?’ Ennis replied in the affirmative. ‘**Did you notice who admitted her.” ‘‘She admitted herself with a latch-key, or some odder kind of key.” ‘‘ How long did she remain?” ‘I don’t know, for I come avay.” ? She haf a leedle poy vid “This is strange,” Bristol mused, “TI | don't seem to understand it. While to all intents the enemy of James Gleason, this woman goes to visit him at his own house!” After a pause, still reluctant to believe the theory that was in his mind, he questioned Ennis as to the minute personal peculiarities of the woman and child he had seen. The result only confirmed his opinion. Mrs. Gleason had really gone to the house! Astounding fact! Had she made the visit as an enemy, in- tending to force war upon him? or had she been deceiving Dick earlier in the day? ‘* Let that be as it may,” he thought, reso- lutely, “I'll have an explanation out of seeg to-night, or sever connection with im!” He was full of this purpose when, after bidding Ennis adieu, he set out with Billy for the Niagara street residence. CHAPTER XIV. A THREATENING LETTER. On his arrival at the Gleason residence, Dick rung the door-bell, and the summons was answered by Gleason in person. ‘“‘Ah! is it you, Mr. Bristol?” he said. “I was afraid you were not coming. Walk in!” ‘‘Oh! I’m generally on hand when there’s anything in the wind. Seen any more of your ghosts?” ‘No; I don’t want to, either.” ‘**T don’t wonder, if it was oe like ied oue I interviewed at the Tifft House to- ay!’ ‘“* What do you mean?” “What I say. I interviewed your ex- wife to-day. She called on me at the hotel.” Gleason’s face flushed, and his gaze fell in confusion. ** At least she claimed to be your wife? Was she right?” ‘“‘ Very likely she was,” was the reluctant : reply. wife?” ‘1 did not consider it necessary.” ‘‘T understand you have been married more than once.” ** Well, what if Ihave? It has no bear- ing on this case.” **T don’t know about that. | your first wife?” “Dead. Exactly as to her present resi- dence Iam not informed.” , ‘Your second wife does not seem to re- gard you exactly as a full-fledged angel.” ‘** She never did.” ‘Why not?” “Oh! we never got on well together, for her temper was too violent. It was that ofa hyena!” “Tf you are enemies, why did she come here to-day?” ‘*Come here?” echoed Gleason, showing great surprise. ‘‘ She did not come here!” ‘‘She was seen to du so by one of my agents. The fact is, Mr. Gleason, you are not treating me square. You are simply fooling with me.” ‘*No; no, indeed, I am not! But. Mr Bristol, it is impossible that she should have been here without my knowledge, and I swear that I do not know of it.” ‘*But she was seen to enter,” Dick per- sisted. ‘‘ How did she get in?” ‘* With a latch-key.” ‘* Very strange!—very strange! Mr. Bris- tol, you still look doubtful. 1 do not under- stand it at all—indeed, I don’t!” ‘*You do! You are keeping something back.” ‘‘On my word of honor, I am not. I know no more about the movements of that woman than a babe.” ‘** You are sure?” ‘*T will take my oath to it!” Here was another mystery. ‘‘Has any woman been here to-day?” Dick asked, ‘*None, whatever!” ig. This unqualified statement only increased Dick’s doubts. **That woman entered your house to-day, and you know it.” ‘‘T know nothing of the sort. If she en- tered here, it was without my knowledge. Who do you say saw ber enter?” ‘*A man named Ennis,” “The detective?” se Yes. » **T can’t believe it.” ‘Tt is true, nevertheless.” “‘ How did you say she gained entrance?” ‘* With a latch-key?” ‘* Was she seen to leave the house again?” ‘No; at least not while Ennis was on the watch.” “Then, possibly, she may be here in hiding now. Let's make a search.” And they did. They investigated every room from cellar to garret, but all to no pur- pose. No Mrs. Gleason was found. ‘“*T don’t believe she was here at all. Your man Ennis lied!” Gleason decided at last. ‘‘ What would have been his object?” ‘*T don’t know. He couldn’t have ex- | pected to make any money by so doing, | could he?” ‘‘No. Well, we'll wait and see what the night brings forth.” Midnight came once more, but it brought no ghost, nor apparition of any kind. ‘“T reckon the specter has been frightened away,” Dick decided. ‘‘It evidently don’t fancy the presence of a New York detective on its favorite stamping-ground. I guess we might as well go back to the hotel, Billy?” ‘*No! nol not—I dare not stay alone. your own price, but you must remain!” G son cried. Where is You must remain here. [can- I will pay ao ea- ) anseaealaaie hs ae Buffalo. iis * oi ASF Die ga Sina eats Beira mee a ‘How is it you did not tell me you had | So they did remain, but the hours fled hy ss been married and separated from your | without any new developments, and morning dawned dark and cheerless. ‘* Well, there has been no ghost yet, Mr. Gleason, so I think you are safe for another day, eh?” ‘* Heaven knows; I hope so!” ‘* Well, we will return to the hotel and get some rest.” ** You will be back to-night?” **If you wish it.” “‘T do, certainly. Wait a moment,” and Mr. Gleason left the room. He soon returned and handed Deadwood Dick a roll of bills. ‘* There is money to defray your expenses. Don’t fail to come back to-night.” ‘**T will be here at dusk,” Dick assured, and he and Billy were gone. They sought the hotel, and indulged ina good half day’s sleep. They then arose, and going down to the office, Dick received a letter superscribed to his name, with the hotel as the address. On opening this, he was Somewhat sur- prised to find the following: ‘“Mr, BristoL:—The best thing ric can do isto leave Buffalo, You are not wanted here, and if you don’t want to bring trouble on yourself, yeu will heed this warning. A word to the wise is sufficient. “U—No!” ‘* Well, that’s cool!” Dick mused. ‘TI dow’t know, but I will know!” ‘* Any news, boss?” ‘‘No; not in particular.” The writing was in a woman’s hand, but not very well executed. It indicated ex- treme nervousness. — Leaving Billy at the hotel, he went around to pay Miss Mabel Mudden another call. He was beginning to get more and more puzzled over this complication of mysteries. Was James Gleason a guilty or a persecuted man? Was Mrs. Gleason a persecuted woman, or a schemer? Was Miss Madccna victim, ora swindler and a would-be murderess? On his arrival at Miss Madden’s he was in- formed that Mabel was not in. ‘‘She went over to Canada, to-day, and has not had time yet to return.” ‘¢ What did she go to Canada for?” ‘Really, I don’t know.” ‘‘At what time do you expect her back?” ** Not before night.” ‘¢ Does she frequently go over there?” atte i Ti : “Yes” and ‘‘no” was all he could get out of the woman atthe door. Evidently, she was well posted as tohow to answer in- quiries, That night was spent at Gleason’s, but without result. The next night, however, ‘‘ panned out” more richly, if not satisfactorily. Dick and _ the ex-broker played cards until nearly twelve, while Billy reposed compla- cently on the sofa. Suddenly there came a sepulchral groan. Dick and Gleason leaped to their feet and — glared about them. No intruder had yet appeared. ‘‘It is the ghost!” gasped Gleasoa, now deathly white. The two men waited: Wceuld the sound come again? It did come! Shortly after one o’clock there was a blood- curdling shriek, followed by a peal of eldritch laughter. Just where it eame from was not apparent, Careful search failed to give any explana- tion. The shriek and laughter aroused Billy Bucket. “What was that?” he demanded. ‘‘Give it up, Billy. I’ve about come to the conclusion that it is the Evil One, after ou.” ‘ ‘“‘Then, under the sofa I go!” replied Billy, suiting the action to the word. © No more strange noises were heard, and, to = oak a
Page 11
Maer Lars eet mr ae > Aarne eh De Ba + “* 3 whaler Fe Sa me a Oe re 2 * pti the relief of Gleason, day once more dawned, and Dick and Billy took their leave again. ‘““This aire gittin’ ter be monoternuss, strikes me,” complained Billy. ‘‘1 don’t see’s we're any more likely ter ketch ther host than when we first come here. Reckon ll not stay much longer, boss, If that spook comes again, you'll see me scoot for New York. I kin have more fun, and make more money there, at my old perfesh, and not run the risk 0’ havin’ my hair jumpin’ out o’ my head by der roots!” CHAPTER XY. SMUGGLED GOODS. A WEEK passed before there were any new developments in the case. Dick and Billy spent each night at the house of the haunted man, but nothing more of the ghost was seen. Dan Ennis, who had been keeping track of the movements of Mabe! Madden, an- nounced that he had made no discoveries. “‘Dot vimmens is keepin’ herself purdty quviet, mine friend,” he reported. ‘‘ She go der house oud but leedle bit, and den but short time. I vatch her close, till I vas all played oud, and I don’t was see her go no more in der direction of Plack Rock. I tink she not dot ghost, py any means!” ‘Have you seen anything of the other woman?” **Vot womans?” “Mrs, Gleason.” **No; but I dells you vot I haf seen. I haf seen dot man Gleason cross over der river several times, in a row-boat.’ **Did you follow him?” “*No; I had me no boat. one t’ing.” “ Well, what is that?” **Ven he goes over, it is alvays schoost two o'clock in der afternoon.” ‘* When does he return?’ ‘Aboud four. Ven he goes avay he haf noddings in his boat but himself. Ven he comes bick he haf a bundle.” ‘* What kind of a bundle?” “Von of dose vot is like dem see Pee dlers carry around on their backs, done up in bed-ticking.”’ “‘ How big is this bundle?” “Oh! Id vas shust apoud as big as a man can handily carry.” ‘* Does Gleason carry it when he lands?” ‘‘No. He vas met by a big red-headed Irishmans, who carries der bundle to a hack vot is vaiting close by. Den Gleason gets inder de hack, and vas driven avay right quvick.” ‘Where to?” “J don’d vas know, oxcept it vas to his own ’ouse. At any rate he goes in dat direc- tions.” ‘‘ Allright, Here are a few dollars. Keep an eye on the place where he lands, have a boat in readiness, and the next time he goes over you follow, and don’t lose track of him ae you find what he does with the bun- e,” ‘©All right, Mr. Bristles; I vil do it. I am aboud so anxious to ferret oud der piz- ness as you vas, for I t'ink der’ vas some gum shennanigan game about id, eh?” ‘“*Yes, sodolI. You attend to the river a and I'll look in another direction. If we on’t find out anything soon I'll throw up the job. and resign my commission in the United States Special Corps.” The last words were spoken with a slight smile which meant a good deal. Bristol had not been idle, and he had _ well-defined theories, at last. That afternoon, after two o’clock, Dick and Billy repaired to the residence of James Gleason and Dick rung the bell. The sum- But, I dells you paws « - —_ . ~ = Ae ME EE rs. wk . «ee Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. “* Mr. Gleason in?” Dick asked. *"No, sir; he is not.” ** Where is he?” ‘*T don’t know, sir; I presume he has gone for his usual afternoon walk.” “‘Ohb! very likely. Well, show us to the parlor, and we will await his return.” ‘‘T have no authority to do so, sir. It is understood that I am to admit no one dur- ing Mr. Gleason’s absence.” “But, being in Gleason’s employ, I de- mand admittance!” Dick declared, and, push- ing the servant aside, he forced himself into the hall, followed by Billy. ‘* Master will be very angry!” expostulated the servant. ‘I shall lose my place.” ‘*If you do, I’ll get you another. So set your heart at rest on that score,” and Dick and Billy entered the parlor and comforta- bly seated themselves. The servant stared at them in dismay. ‘*T shall get the bounce, sure!” he groaned following the two detectives. ‘*No, you will not; I’ll fix it for yon,” Dick replied. ‘‘Have you seen the ghost, recently?” ‘‘No,” the servant answered. ** What do you make of it, when you have seen it?” ‘“*T don’t know.” ‘‘Did you ever tackle it?” **Yes, I did!” ‘‘How?—in what manner?” ‘‘The first time I saw it I flung a hatchet at it.” . ‘Did it have any effect?” ‘‘Not in the least. It hurt the air more than it did the ghost,” “The second time—how about that?” **T flung a club at it!” **Did you hit it?” ‘Yes, It yelied like bloody thunder, and then disappeared.” ‘‘Darned queer!” muttered Billy; ‘‘ the ghost made a home-run on this feller’s Jase- hit! That’s ag’inst the rules,” ' ‘* What then?” Dick continued. : ‘*T was too much scared to follow; I saw no more.” = ‘Then you think it a genuine ghost?” ‘‘Can’t say, sir. Besides, I’m not allowed to give any opinion in regard to it.” * Who objects?” ‘*Mr. Gleason,” ‘He does, does he?” and Dick subsided in thought. That Gleason was playing a deep game was hour by hour becoming more evident. The man retired, and Dick and Billy pro. ceeded to make themselves as comfortable as circumstances would permit. There was a box of rare Havanas on the mantel-piece, to which they helped them- selves, and also a bottle marked ‘‘ Laudanum —Poison,” which Dick quietly dropped into his pocket, The servant reappeared with a tray of dainty luncheon, as if to placate his guests, ‘though he was still watchful and suspicious. While so vigilant he would be in the way of their plans for the night, so, acting on this belief he took advantage of the tempo- rary absence, and, dropping a desired quan- tity of the drug into a glass, filled it up with wine. When the man returned Dick cordially said: “Have a drink, Sammy?” . ‘‘Thankee, sir; but the boss does not al- low me to drink.” ‘‘Oh! he’ll permit this, if I offer it to you.” Sammy took the proffered glass and pour- ed down its contents with a gusto that show- ed he was not unused to such beverages. “Sit down, Sammy, until your master comes, and we will have a chat. Where do you hail from? Are you a native of this mons was answered by the servant who had | State?” succeeded the colored man in that position. ~The darky had had too much of the ghost. / ‘*No, sir; I come from England.” ‘You don’t talk like an Englishman.” ee ed 4 SN NY OE: TNE LER, AMS oo ‘ a } | ‘** Perhaps not, because I come of a refined | family. I am, in truth, the son of a lord; but, certain troubles forced me to leave En- | gland. Here, in America, 1 am forced to accept a menial’s position, in order to earn a living ” Sammy yawned, and Dick and Billy re- sumed their Juncheon. Presently Sammy’s eyes closed altogether, and he breathed heavily. *‘He’s done for!” Dick announced. ‘** Now, no time is to be lost. l’m going to search this house from top to bottom. Pm going to investigate it thoroughly.” So, leaving Sammy sound asleep in the chair, they descended to the ce:lar and be- gan operations there, Every joint and crevice was examined by lamp-light. Every box and barrel was over- hauled, but nothing was found of any con- sequence. ‘‘Ghosts don’t live here,” Billy assever- ated. ‘Them rotten ’taters would kill ’em!” Finding nothing of interest, they next went up-stairs. There were six rooms upon the first floor, all of which they carefully ae Room after room was visited. No ghost was found, nor any signs of one. Everything about the house seemed in per- fect order, ‘It’s no go, Dick!” Billy decided, mourn- fully. ‘Tt does look so. but let’s keepon. We may find out something, yet.” , The attic was next visited. Here a discovery was made. In one of the rooms was a trunk, with the lid uplifted. In this trunk was a quantity of silk and laces—gvods, Dick at orce inferred, smug- gled from the Canada side. **Here’s a go!” Billy proclaimed, more cheerfully. ‘‘Old Gleason % a smuggler, ain’t he, boss?” ‘¢This looks very much like it.” ‘‘ What are you going to do?” Just then, they received a start; the door- bell was heard to ring. “It's Gleason returned!” Dick cried. It was a most untimely interruption. To be discovered in ransacking the house was not just then to Dick’s liking. ‘* We must get out of here, Billy!” **You bet! Here we go!” And down the stairs they went, two steps at a time. When they crouched behind the sofa, which now stood across one corner of the room, and were none too soon, for presently Gleason came reached the parlor they servant had not answered bis summons. **Curse that Sammy! I'll break his head!” he cried. ‘‘I’'ll learn him what he is em- ployed for. Lucky I hadakey. Hello!” He had discovered Sammy in the chair. ‘‘Bless’ my eyes! if he isn’t fast asleep, Say, wake up, bere!’ He shook the man soundly, but Sammy did not waken; the narcotic had done its work, and done it well. ‘Well, by thunder!” ejaculated Gleason, ‘this beats the Dutch! Why, the infernal rascal is dead drunk! He’s been drinking up my wine!” : He shook Sammy again, but to no avail; the sleeper could not be aroused, and Glea- son sat down as if in despair, ‘1 don’t half like this,” he muttered. ‘It don’t look right. Sammy never drank be- fore, and there are two glasses here, on the table. He would not bave been likely to use them both. Everything indicates that he has been entertaining some one, at my expense, during my absence. But who?” This was a question not easy to answer, and it put Gleason in a quandary. ‘‘There may be some one else in the house!” he cried suddenly; and rising, left the room to investigate ms ‘as Ts ts. — be ahs a : é into the room, furious with rage because his. res
Page 12
Wieck es fap oY ey p 6 ee RE wns mM Tada Rs eRe *‘Now’s our time!” whispered Dick. ** Let’s take a skip!” And they skipped, leaving Gleason to work sout the mystery as best he could, CHAPTER XVI. D. ENNIS MAKES A REPORT. Dick was now pretty well satisfied on one point, James Gleason was still a smuggler of goods from the Canada side, else why all those goods in the attic?—fine silks and laces ‘whose store value, on the American side, ‘would amount to thousands of dollars. Mrs. Gleason's outline of her ex-husband’s «character appeared to be correct. But, how did Gleason dispose of his illegally-gotten merchandise? Was he really -& partner in the stoie? That was to be de- termined. Dick and Billy met Stella Starr on Main street, near Court Square, a little later. ‘Well, what luck?” asked Bristol. ** None, whatever. Miss Madden has been “out of the house but once in a week, and then it was only to buy stock.” **Did you follow her?” ‘*| did,” replied Miss Starr. ‘* Where does she buy her stock?” “Of a Jew named Harris, on Franklin street.” *‘Does she buy a large stock at a time?” ‘‘No. She does not need to, considering hhow often she brings packages from the Canadian side.” ‘* Since it is clear that she is a smuggler, it would seem she gets stock enough, that ee and only buys of this man as a blind. Al + hg “That is my own theory.” *“ You are quite sure, then, that Miss Mad- den has not left her house after dark?” ‘* Yes; 1 think IcansayIam. Her room ‘ is just across the hall from mine, now, and I have remained up nights until after twelve, but without hearing her leave the house.” ‘*Yet she might have done so, noise- lessly ?” ‘* Possibly. Of course I couldn’t swear she had not, for I would be swearing to what I do not know. My belief is, how- ever, that she has not left the house after nightfall. We work until late, and, if she left, we should be apt to know it.” ‘One question more: You know Mrs. ‘Gleason, the ex-wife of James Gleason?” ** Yes, I know of her.” ‘*T see. She and Miss Madden are ene- mies, I believe?” ** Yes; and bitter ones, too.” Dick bade Stella good-day, and he and Billy continued on their way. ‘‘The next move is to find Ennis,” Dick remarked. ‘‘He may have found out some- ‘thing that will come in mane y: : But, though they searched high and low, Ennis failed to materialize until toward night, when he suddenly turned up at the ‘Tifft House, where Dick and Billy were rest- | ing. Any news?” Dick asked, eagerly. «Vel, yes, a leedle.” ‘Then out with it!” ‘Vell, I dells you. I vent down to der river, and, Pree ay, along come old man Gleason. I kept oud of sight purdty much, -and I see him get into his ooat and pe rowed over der river to Fort Erie.” . ** Well?” ‘Vel, I stay me in dot neighborhood until he comes pack. He vasn’t gone very long, and, when he comes pack, he had dot big bundle v’ot I dels you apoud, This he took to his house, vere he goes himseluf soon. _ Vel, I follow him, and I vatch dot house. Pime-by I see you and dot poy come out purty quick, and I know you had been dere v’ile das boss vas gone. “Il keep me oud of your sight, vor I no vant you to see me. I make up mine head ‘to vatch dot house on t’e quiet, und fine out something.” nae 4!) ROO MRS a Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Bu “‘ Well, did you find out anything?” ‘*Pe sure I diat In der first blace, Glea- son he pe havin’ a goot many visitors.” ** What kind of visitors?” “Dey vas most of ’em pack-peddlers— Sheeneys!”’ ‘*You are sure they were peddlers?” ‘*T vas; [ knew some of dem.” ** Well, what else?” “Vel, v’en dey vent into Gleason’s house dey haff no packs. V’en dey comes oud dey haff packs on deir backs.” *‘How many were there of them?” “e Six.”’ ‘Did any one enter Gleason’s house _ be- sides the peddlers?” **Yes, dot voman who used to be Mr. Gleason’s wife.” **The deuce you say. How long did she stay?” f ‘*T don’t vas know. She hadn’t come oud yet, v’en I comes avay, so I t’inks dot [ petter was come and dell you about id.” *‘ Which was right. 1 shall know better how to act now,” Dick replied. ‘‘ Gleason is engaged in the smuggling business.” “Yaw! dot vas it. He gets goots cheap on der odder side, and make a big brofit on’ dem ofer here. Dot vas shust v’ot’s der matter mit Hanner!” ‘*The woman who claims to be his di- vorced wife—I wonder what she was doing there?” *‘Don’d know. Perhaps dey haf maked oop vonce more.” ** More likely they’re working in collusion and never have been actually separated!” Dick declared. “That’s my think,” Billy agreed. **Vel, maype dot is der case. But, how appoud dot ghost? T don’d vas can make dot oud, nohow.” ‘*That ghost,” Deadwood Dick confident- ly replied, ‘‘is, or has been, Mabel Madden. It has not been active of late, and the reason is plain—the ghost is scared! Why she has haunted James Gleason we may know better later, but, it is clear that she hates him bit- terly, and wishes to worry the life out of him for revenge.” ‘* Strange vomans,” He is uncertain whether to think the ap- parition human or unsubstantial shadow. I have a theory now why he employs us detec- tives. **V’ot vas dot?” ‘* First, to have company when 7t comes; next, in the hope that his companion will shoot the ghost dead, if the ‘ghost’ is a creature of the flesh, Of course this is only a theory, but it may prove correct. He is superstitious; he wavers between two ex- tremes in his belief.” ‘* An’ wants you ter shoot the animal, ef it’s a real woman. Eh, boss? Why don’t he try his own hand?” ‘He has, but the hand was probably very shaky then.” ‘‘Is the Madden woman inter the smug- glin’ racket?” Billy inquired. ‘*How can we doubt it? Stella Starr, who is to be believed implicitly, tells us how hard Mabel worked to get her packages across the line unseen. Of course she was doing some smuggling. My theory is that she and Gleason were partners in the illegal traffic before their quarrel. After that each feared the other, and each tried to make a show of being out of the business, By a curious chance, the Madden woman has been disposing of her ill-gotten gains in the very store where Gieason is a partner in secret!” ‘*Reckon you figger it ’bout right,” Billy agreed. ** Dot vas apout it,” Ennis added. ‘‘ Now,” Dick resumed, ‘‘I feel so sure of my position that we will carry the war into the enemy’s camp. I'll get a warrant for the arrest, for smuggling, of both Gleason and Madden. I'll try to frighten her into a con- dot he should pe afraid off der fession of her ghostly anties;. Gleason Tl humble even more. Whether I arrest them really depends on the future.” Further conversation was here interrupted by a rap on the door. ‘Come in!” Dick called out. A servant entered. **A note for Mr. Bristol!” he announced. Dick took the missive and tore it open. It was from Stella Star, and ran as fol- lows: ‘‘Miss Madden is dying! She wants to see you!” CHAPTER XVII. THE APPARITION NO MORE. DeEADWoop Dicxk’s surprise at receiving this communication was great, but he lost no time in reaching Miss Madden’s residence. His ring was answered by Stella Starr. ‘“‘T received your note,” he began, ab- ruptly, ‘‘and came at once. What 1s the | trouble?” ‘*Miss Madden, never strong, has been ailing for some days, and has been attacked at last with hemorrhages. Her very hours are numbered.” ‘* And she wishes to see me?” ** Yes, at once.” Then Stella led the way to the dying wo- man’s room. She was as white as the pillow on which her head rested, and looked more than ever like the apparition of Gleason’s house. She seemed pieased at sight of Dick. ‘Come near and be seated,” she directed, in a husky voice. ‘‘Ilam glad you came— so glad. I hardly expected you would, though.” ‘‘Oh! I Jost no time in answering the summons,” Dick replied, drawing a chair near the bed. ‘‘I am sorry to see you so ill, Miss Madden. Is there not something I can do to alleviate your suffering?” ‘*No. Iam past all humanaid. Besides, IT do not knew as I would have 1t otherwise, if I could. I am alone in the world, without anything or any one to live for. Of late I have seen my approaching fate, and have made what earthly preparations ,I can. I believe that all will be well with me. I only regret that a certain man must remain in a state of prosperity,” and her eyes glit- tered. ‘‘Your animosity toward Gleason does not seem to vanish, even in your dying hour, Miss Madden?” Dick remarked. ‘No, it does not. When you_hear my story, you will scarcely wonder, You want to hear it, as a matter of course?” “‘T am here to listen to what you have to say, and to be of any service to you that lies in my power to give,” Dick replied, ; “You area gentleman worthy of. confi- dence, so I will tell you the story of my life, to show you that I am not all evil, but, be. fore I try to excuse my weaknesses, let me confess my sins. Have you solved the ghost mystery?’ “T still think the ghost was yourself.” ‘‘You are right; it was I. There are se- cret passages and sliding panels in the house, and Pinve used them and other devices to terrify him. Why I did it I will state later. First, let me tell what weighs heaviest against me. ‘* When at Gleason’s you had your clothes, money and watch taken. I was the thief, but they are not lost to you. They are in that package yonder, and you are to take them away with you. \ ‘“The warning letter received by Gleason, the letter sent to you signed ‘ U-No,’ and the writing on the wall were all my work, I ad- mit. : “‘The wound inflicted upon Gleason with the knife was made by me. I yielded toa sudden impulse, or I would never have gone so far. “ Stella has confessed that you have proof that I have been asmuggler. Such was the fact, but I was first led into it by Gleason.
Page 13
Ee a ry 4. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. 13 It is impossible for me to clear my character. Over a week ago I told you how I first be- came acquainted with Gleason. ‘*Tt was an acquaintance begun in impru- dence and selfishness on my part, but it brought ruin to oneI loved, as you shall hear. It was I who introduced the villain to him. I was reckless, Gleason saw this, and we became partners in smuggling. Finally we quarreled, but it seems that nei- ther reformed. ** Now you shall hear the history of my life. I think it will, in a measure, offset my failing, but it cannot be more strong in my favor than is my regret that I ever sinned, **T was born in Virginia, of good family. and had one brother. My people were well to do. WhenTI was stili young, both my parents died, leaving Claude and myself ‘alone in the world. **Claude was of age at the time, and pa- pa’s will left everything to him, with the understanding that he was to divide up with me, in case we concluded to sell the estate. This was done to avoid any legal technical- ities that might prevent a sale, owing to my being a minor,” * I 860.” ‘* Well, our money was exhausted in bury- ing our parents, and after due deliberation, we concluded to part with the old home and its belongings. **Claude was sharp at driving a bargain, and, after a time succeeded in closing out, at a good figure. “The property brought eight thousand dollars. Then arose the question of how we could get a living off of that amount with- out touching the principal, for we were both ambitioas to save for a rainy day, Kight thousand dollars don’t last long, unless care- fully nursed, and we were anxious to be as saving as possible of our money. ‘*Olaude and I were very dear to one an- other, and when Claude proposed that we come to Buffalo and try our fortune here, I readily consented, Claude keeping my share of the money for me, as I considered him more capable of handling it. So we came. ‘Claude looked diligently for work, but, being a stranger, found none. Finally, he attended a sheriff’s sale. The house now occupied by James Gleason was to be sold uader the hammer, Claude must have been drinking, for he made a bid upon it, and it was knocked down to him.” ‘* For how mucn?” ‘Four thousand dollars, and eleven dol- Jars and forty-four cents—the added costs,” “T see! Four, eleven, forty-four?” . ‘* Yes,” “ Humpb! rather singular!” ‘Strangely so! Claude was elated, for he believed that the numbers would surely bring him good luck.” “But, they didn’t, eh?” “No, indeed. Poor Claude fell into bad company, and bad habits. He was naturally _ rather a gay-dispositioned fellow, and, when urged on by others, ashe was, he became wild, and reckless, “He drank, he gambled, and dissipated enerally, in spite of my protests and plead- _ Ings, and by the end of two years, he was little better than a common bummer, al- though he managed to maintain a respecta- ble appearance, ‘His evil genius was, as you may guess, Jim Gleason; a man of alleged wealth. He followed Claude everywhere, and _ intro- duced him to all the vices extant.- They played cards together, billiards together, drank together, and drove together, and Claude, being of a liberal disposition, gen- erally footed all the bills. “We still retained the house and lot, which was in Claude’s name, and which had increased some thousand dollars in value. _ “T foresaw that this was what Gleason _ Was laying his snare for; but all to no use F ‘ * } a ae 7 es CN oie os a —~ did I warn Claude. He kept on his wild ways, and, finally, our money wasgone. He did not desist, even then. Gleason plied him with all the liquor he could drink, and took good cure that my poor brother should not draw a sober breath. “‘T went to him, Gleason, one day, and begged of him to stop trying to further ruin my dear brother, und for answer he simply laughed. ‘**Oh! Claude isall right,’ he said. ‘Can’t you let a fellow have a little fun, if he wants ete? ; <‘* This made me wild with anger, and I | cried out: ‘If any harm comesto my brother, | Jim Gleason, through his associations with you, I'll haunt you to the Jast day you live!’ ‘* Not long after this, poor brother dropped dead. An autopsy was held, and it was agreed that his death was due to alcoholism. James Gleason had been the direct cause of poor Claude's death!” **T see. You naturally hated him, then?” ‘*Hate! Why, that’s no name for it! I at once set to work to figure out how to haunt him. I had discovered a secret pas- sageway in the house, and a secret way of entering it. Then, by the aid of sliding pan- els, I could enter the parlor and the parlor- extension, which he has used as his bedroom. ‘*T had only discovered these things, when Gleason came forward and foreclosed a mort- gage on the house, for the exact amount Claude had paid for it.” | Indeed!” “Yes, The mortgage had been executed by Claude, had been recorded, and, conse- | quently was valid. I was then more than ever at the merey of the world, without friends or money. Can you wonder at my intense hatred of Jim Gleason?” ‘‘No, not in the least. I know him, my- self, to be an unprincipled scoundrel, and | can tell you one thing which may please ou Dick remarked. | / ‘* What is that?” **Gleason and the woman who, he now admits, 1s his wife, are still engaged in smuggling goods over from Canada. To- morrow they will find themselves in the sta- tion-house, to stand trial for defrauding the Government.” ‘Good! Now, I can die without a mur- mur, for I shall be avenged. You will not let them escape you?” ‘‘Not through any fault of mine, rest assured!” ““That’s right. See that they pay the full penalty of the law, and I will bless you! Now, all is settled, and I do not care to think I thank you for | 1 | further of worldly matters. I shall trouble you your kindness to me. no more!” The words were spoken huskily, and, the next minute, a torrent of blood from the sick girl's mouth poured into the bowl which Stella quickly brought. When the hemorrhage had ceased, Mabel fell back upon the bed, with a low moan. There were a few long-drawn breaths, and then a cessation of them altogether. Mabel Madden’s spirit had passed to that bourne from which none returneth., Gently Stella closed her eyelids, and with a motion to Dick, they quietly withdrew from the room, ‘‘Well, the poor thing is out of her trou- ble,” Stella sighed, when they reached the parlor. ‘* Yes, and perhaps she could not have re- | covered, anyhow. Possibly it is well that | her suffering should be brought to a speedy termination. Has she money?” ‘« Yes, sufficient to bury her respectably. She gave it into my keeping, several hours ago, and I will take charge of the details, at her request.” ‘‘Very well TI suppose there is no way T can make myself useful? If not, I think I will be going.” | ‘“You may, if you please, notify her phy- sician and, also, an undertaker.” “T will do so, gladly. After that, my business is with Gleason.” ‘* Shall you arrest him, at once?” ‘‘Tt is too Jate to procure a warrant, to- night. IJ shall do this the first thing in the: morning.” ‘‘T wish to say,” Stella added, “that I have learned that Gleason and his wife have become reconciled, They have had many quarrels, but always come together again.” ‘* Exactly; I have the same news. When the wife called on me at the hotel she was hot for his life-blood, as it were, but, 1mme- diately after, she received a note from him of a conciliatory nature. Within half an hour she was at his house, and they made up, though he stoutly denied it to me.” CHAPTER XVIII. THE CLOSING CAMPAIGN. AFTER obtaining the physician’s address, Deadwood Dick left Stella. He attended to the business with which she had intrusted him, and then returned to where Billy awaited him. He regretted that a warrant cold not be had for Gleason’s arrest at once, but there seemed to be no danger that he wou!d take alarm. ‘The detective was tempted to pass the night with the smuggler, or try to, but Gleason had requested that their visits be discontinued if the ghost came no more, and both Dick and Billy Bucket were in need of rest. They then sought their rooms at the hotel, and indulged in the best sleep they had had. since their arrival in Buffalo. ‘They were astir early, however, and, after a breakfast in company with Herr Ennis, they went to a magistrate and swore out a warrant for the arrest of James Glea- son, for smuggling. “It was given to Dick, and accompanied by a stalwart policeman, the detectives set out. for Black Rock. They arrived at Niagara street in_good time—too early, if anything; so at Dick’s. suggestion, they did not immediately ap- proach the house, but kept a elose watch vee it to see if they could detect any signs of life. ; . But, up tc nine o’clock there had teen. no stir whatever, What did it mean? ‘‘It looks as if there wasn’t any ene at home,” Dick observed. “Yes, it does,” chimed in Billy. “IN bet a green apple ter a gooseberry we're toe late!’ Herr Ennis shrugged his burly shoulders in a deprecatory manner, and lit his long meerschaum. ‘‘It may be,” he admitted. ‘Ve vil find us oud noddings by remaining here.” That is true enough. Come, let’s’ inves- tigate!” and they move up the street ata brisk pace. . The nearest house to Gleason’s was twent feet away, und a high, tight board fence on either side shut off. the view of the neighbors, A murder might have been committed in. Gleason’s residence, with the side windows. wide open, without any one’s Knowledge, except they obtained a view from the street. front. Dick ran up the steps and rung the bell, Ennis and Billy following close at her heels. No answer; all was silent withia. Dick rung again and again. ; The third ring brought the man-servant. “JT want to see your master!” Diek de- clared, , ‘*You can't, sir. He is not here.” “‘Nothere? Where is he?” ‘Moved to Canada, I believe!” was the reply. “Then, what are you doing here?” i
Page 14
bought the place can move in.” ‘* Who is that?” “ Don’t know kis name. He paid down the cash, though, for I saw him do it.” ‘*To what part of Canada did Gleason zo?” ‘He didn't say.” ‘*Did his wife go wich him?” ot ak Bc ‘**Can we have a look through the house?” ‘* Yes, for all I care.” They made a thorough search of the prem- ises, in every nook and corner, but without a discovery of anything valuable, except the furniture, which had been purchased with the house. ** Well, we’re dished!’ admitted Dick, in di gust. ‘‘ It’s the first time I’ve got left in the whole course of my detective experience, If Gleason has gone to Canada, he is out of the jurisdiction of the United States, so the jig is up, most decidedly.” “Vel, mine friend, v’ot can’t pe cured, must pe endured, Von can’t oxpect to vin der game effery time, or dot odder fellers could not smile. Don‘d you see?” ‘Plain as a brick wall!” put in Billy. ‘* At all eveats,” adaed Dick, ‘‘ there’s no use of our remaining here any longer. The bird has flown, and I’m not going to spend any more time looking for it.” The next day unfortunate Mabel Madden ‘was buried. By that time Deadwood Dick had satisfied himself that Gleason was really gone. He was known to have crossed to Canada with his wife. The detective spent no time in mourning. The escaped man had been his employer, not his game, and he had done what he had been summoned to Buffalo to do; the ghost mystery was solved. Besides this, Gleason had been generous, and, though the promised reward was lacking, the several advances counted up well. Dick did not forget to reward Stella Starr, and that young lady was fortunate enough to have a good situation all ready for her. The next day Dick and Billy reported to the chief of police. Then, after bidding good-by to Ennis, the detectives started back to New York, THE END. Beadle’s Dime Library. BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID. 8 The Headless Horseman; A Strange Story of Texas. 12 The Death-Shot; or, Tracked to Death, : 55 The Scalp Hunters, A Romance of the Plains. 66 The Specter barque. A Tale of the Pacific. 74 sd panera of the Rifles; or, The Queen of the ces, 200 The Rifle Rangers; or, Adventures in Mexico, 208 The White Chief. A Romance of Northern Mex- ico. 213 The War Trail: or, The Hunt of the Wild Horse. 214 The Wild Huntress; or, The Squatter’s Ven- geance 223 The Maroon. A Tale of Voodoo and Ob: ah. 234 The Hunter’s Feast. 267 The White Squaw, BY FRANCIS JOHNSON, 25 The Gold Guide; or, Steel Arm, Regulator, 26 The Death Track; or, The Mountain Outlaws, 123 Alapaha the Squaw; or, The Border Renegades 124 Assowaum the Avenger; or, The Doom of the Destroyer. 135 The Bush Ranger: or, The Half-Breed Rajah, 136 The Outlaw Hunter; or, The Bush Ranger. 188 The Border Bandit; or, The Horse Thief’s Trail BY COL. THOMAS H. MONSTERY. 82 Iron Wrist, the Swordmaster. 126 The Demon Duelist; or, The League of Steel. 143 The Czar’s Spy; or, The Nihilist League 150 El Rubio Bravo. King of the Swordsmen. 157 Mourad, the Mameluke; or, The Three Sword- masters. 169 Corporal Cannon, the Man of Forty Duels 236 Champion Sam; or, The Monarchsof the Show 262 Fighting Tom. the Terror of the Toughs. 38 Spring-Heel Jack; or, The Masked Mystery. itl gach ohana 2 Lode ts. o ‘‘ Sweeping out, sir, so the man who | BY MAJOR DANGERFIELD BURR. 92 Buffalo Bill, the Buckskin King. | 117 Dashing Dandy; or, The Hotspur of the Hills, | 142 Captain Crimson, the Man of the Iron Face. | 156 Velvet Face, the Border Bravo, | 175 Wild Bill’s trump Card; or, The Indian Heiress. i 185 The Phantom Mazeppa; or, The Hyena. | 448 Hark Kenton, the Traitor. BY KDWARD WILLETT. 129 Mississippi Mose; or, a Strong Man’s Sacrifice, | 209 Buck Farley, the Bonanza Prince. 222 Bill the Blizzard; or, Red Jack’s Crime. 248 Montana Nat, the Lion of Last Chance Camp, | 274 Flush Fred, the Mississippi Sport. ) 289 Flush Fred’s Full Hand, ; 208 L gezer Lem; or, Life in the Pine Woods. | 808 Hemlock Hank, Tough and True, | 315 Flush Fred’s Double; or, The Squatters’ League. 827 Terrapin Dick, the Wildwood Detective, 337 Old Gabe, the Monntain Tramp. ; 848 Dan Dillon, King of Crosscut. | 868 The Canyon King; or, a Price on his Head. | 488 Flush Fred, the River Sharp. | BY DR. J. H. ROBINSON, 18 Pathaway; or, Nick Whiffles. the old Nor’west Trapper. 17 Nightshade; or, The Robber Prince. 22 Whitelaw; or, Nattie of the Lake Shore. 3? Hirl, ae Hunchback; or, The Santee Sword- maker, 58 Silver Knife; or, The Rocky Mountain Ranger. 70 Hydrabad, the Strangler. 73 The Knights of the Red Cross; or, The Granada Magician. 163 Ben Brion; or, Redpath, the Avenger. BY NED BUNTLINE. 14 Thayendanegea,the Scourge; or, The War-Eagle, 16 The White Wizard; or, The Seminole Prophet. 18 The Sea Bandit; or, The Queen of the Isle. 23 The Red Warrior; or, The Comanche Lover, 61 Captain Seawaif, the Privat-er. 111 The Smuggier Captain; or, The Skipper’s Crime. 122 Saul Sabberday, the Idiot RPS. 270 Andros, the Rover; or, The Pirate’s Daughter. 861 Tombstone Dick, the Train Pilot. 517 Buffalo Bill's First Trail. BY OLL COODXIES. 7 Death Notch, the Destroyer. 43 Dakota Dan, the Reckless Ranger. 44 Old Dan Rackhack, the Great Extarminat or 46 Bowie-Knife Ben, the Nor’west Hunter. 48 idaho Tom, the Young Outlaw of Silverland 51 Red Rob, the Boy Road-Agent. 99 The Giant Rifleman: or, Wild Camp Life. 137 Long Beard, the Giant Spy. 148 One-Armed Alf, the Giant Hunter, BY CAPTAIN MARK WILTON. 176 Lady Jaguar, the Robber Queen, 194 Don Sombrero. the California Road Gent, 202 Cactus Jack, the Giant Guide. 219 The Scorpion Brothers; or, Mad Tom’s Mission. 223 Canyon Dave, the Man of the Mountain, 227 Buckshot Ben, the Man-Hunter of Idaho. 237 Long-Haired Max; or, The black League. 245 Barranca Bill, the Revolver Champion 258 Bullet Head, the Colora’}o Bravo. 263 lron-Armed Abc, the Hunchback Destroyer. 266 Leopard Luke the King of Horse-Thieves. 271 Stonefist, of Big Nugget Beno. 276 Texa’ Chiek the Southwest Detective. 285 Lightning Bolt, the Canyon Terror, 291 Horseshoe Han', the Man of Big Luck. 805 Silver-Plated Sol, th» Monrana Rover. 311 Heavy Hand; or, The Marked Men. 823 Hotspur Hugh; or, The Banded Brothers, BY SiM 8S. HALEL=* Buckskin Sam, 3 Kit Carson, Jr., the Crae® Shot 90 Wild Will, the Mad Rancherv. 178 Dark Dashwood, the Desperat». , 186 The Black Bravo; or, The Tonkaway’s Triumph, 191 Tae Terrible Tonkaway; or, Old Rocky and his Pards. 195 sag Star Gambler; or, The Magnolia’s 199 Diamend Dick, the Dandy from Denver. 204 Big Foot Wallace, the King of the Lariat, 212 The Brazos Tigers; or, ‘he Minute Men, 217 The Serpent of El Paso; or, Frontier Frank. 221 Desperate Duke, the Guadaloupe “ Galoot.” 2°5 Rocky Mountain Al; or, The Waif of the Range, 239 The Terrible Trio; or, The Angel of the Army, 244 Merciless M«rt, the Man Tiger of Missouri. 250 The Rough Riders; or, Sharp Eye, the Scourge, 256 Double Dan, the Dastard; or, The Pirates, | 264 The Crooked Three. | 269 The Bayou Bravo: or, The Terrible Trail. | 273 Mountain Mose, the Gorge Outlaw. ; 282 The Merciless Marauders; or, Carl’s Revenge. 287 Dandy Dave and his Horse. White Stocking. 293 enpete Steve: or, The Doom of the Double ‘ace. : | 301 Bowlder Bill; or, The Man from Taos. 809 Raybold, the Rattling Ranrer. 322 The Crimson Covotes; or. Nita, the Nemesis, 828 King Kent; or, The Bandits of the Bason, 342 Rlanco Bill, the Mustang Monarch. 858 The Prince of Pan Out. f 871 Gold Buttons; or, The Up Range Pards, 511 Paint Pete, the Prairie Patrol. ‘BY WILLIAM R, EYSTER, 145 Pistol Pards; or, The Silent.Sport from Cinnabar, 160 Soft Hand, Sharp; or, Th Man with the Sand, 182 Hands Up; or, The Knights of the Canyon. 192 The Lightning Sport, 214 The Two Cool Sports; or, Gertie of the Guleh, 229 Captain Cu‘sleeve; or. The Little Sport. 268 Magic Mike, the Man of Frills. 800 A Sport ip Spectacles; or, The Bad Time at Bunco, .- 885 Derringer Dick. the Man with the Drop. 844 Double Shot Dave of the Left Hand. 856 Thr e Handsome Sports; or, The Double Com bination. 375 Royal George, the Three in One, 396 The Piper Detective. 402 Snapshot Sam; or, The Angels’ Plat Racket. 429 Hair Trigger Tom of Red Bend. 459 Major Sunshine, the Man of Three Lives, 478 Pinnacle Pete; or, The Fool from Way Back, 503 The Dude from Denver, 525 Fresh Frank, the Derringer Daisy. 583 Oregon, the Sport With a Scar, 549 Belsbazzar Brick, the Bailiff of Blue Blazes. 558 Hurrah Harry, the High Horse from Halcyon. BY CAPT. FRED. WHITTAKER. 839 The Russian Spy; or, The Sterry Cross Brothers, 65 The Red Rajah; or, The Scourge of the Indies, 69 The Irish Captain, A Tale of Fontenoy. 96 Double Death; or, The Spy of Wyoming. 98 The Rock Rider; or, The Spirit of the Sierra, 108 The Duke of Diameonas, 115 The Severed Head; or, The Secret of Castle Coucy. 132 Nemo, King of the Tramps. 159 Red Rudiger, the Archer. 174 The Phantom Knights, 187 The Death’s Head Cuirassiers, 193 The Man in Red. 206 One Eye. the Cannoneer. 211 Colonel Plunger; or, The Urknown Sport. 215 Parson Jim, King of the Cowboys. 226 ‘he Mad Hussars; or, The O’s and the Mae’s, 230 The Fiving Dutchman of 1880, 242 The Fog Devil; or, The Skipper of the Flash. 247 Alligator Ike: or, The Sccre of tle Faber ee 253 A Yankee Cossack; or,The Queen of the Nihilists, 265 Old Double-Sword; or, Pilots and Pirates, 272 Seth Slocum, Railroad Surveyor. 277 The Sauey Jane, Privateer. 234 The Three Frigates; or. Old Ironsides’ Revenge, 290 The Lost Corvette: cr, Blekel y’s Last Cruise, 295 Old Cross-Eve, the Maverick-Hunter. 303 Top-Notch Tom, the Cow! oy Outlaw. 310 The Marshal of Satanstown; or, The Cattle- Lifters’ League, 326 The Whitest Man in the Mines, 878 John Armsrroug. Mechanic. 406 Old Pop Hicks, Showman. 412 Larry Locke. ihe Man of Ion, 445 Journeyman John, the Champion, MISCELL \NEOUS. 6 Wildeat Bob, By Edward L. Wheeler. 9 Handy Andy By Samuel Lover. i 10 Vidocg, the French Police Spy. By himself. 11 Midshipman Easy. By Captain Marryatt. 82 B’hoys of Yale: or, The Scrapes of Collegians, By John D. Vose, 60 Wi e Awake, the Robber King. By ¥. Dumont. 68 The Fighting Trapper. By Capt.J. F.C, Adams, 76 The Queen’s Musketeers. Py George Albany. 78 The Mysterious — Bv Arthur M. Grainger, 102 The Masked Band. By George L. Aiken. 110 The Silent Rifleman. By H. W. Hertert, 125 The Blacksmith Outlaw. By H. Ainsworth. 133 Rody the Rover. By William Carleton. 140 The Three Spaniards. By Geo. Walker, 144 The Hunchback of Notre Dame. By Victor Hugo. 146 The Doctor Detective. By George Lemuel, 152 Captain Ironnerve, the Cow terfeiter Chief. 158 The Doomed Dozen. By Dr. Frank Powell 166 Owlet, the Robber Prince. By S. R. Urban. 179 Conrad, the Convict. By Piof. Gildersleeve, 190 The Three Guardsmen. By Alexander Dumas, 261 Black Sam, ti.e Prairie Thunderbolt. By Col, Jo Yards. 275 The Smuggler Cutter. By J.D. Copeey. 'y Mor- $12 Kinkfoot Karl, the Mountain Scourge. ris Redwing. 830 Cop Colt,the Quaker City Detective. roe Morris. B50 Flach Telco. the Society Detective. By Weldon J. Cobb, 353 Bart Brennan; or, The King of Straight Flush, By John Cuthbert. 4 366 The Telegreph Detective. By George Henry Morse 410 Sarah Brown, Detective. By K. F, Ait). 500 The True Heart Pards. By Dr. Noei Dunbar. By J. W. Osbon. 534 one, Mountain Joe; or, The Counterfeiterg Cave. Ry Marmaduke Dey. 542 The Ocenn Drift: or, The Fight for Two Lives, By A. Tiarey’ the Cowboy Sport: or, D 545 Hustler Harry. the Cowboy Sport; or, Dan Shark’s General Delivery. By William @& atten. A new issue every Wednesday, Beadle’s Dime Library is for sale by ail Newsdealers, ten cents per copy, or sent by mail om receipt of twelve cents each. BEALE & ADAMS Publishers, 98 William Street, New York. 518 Roval Richard, the Thoroughbred, a Bs
Page 15
Published Every Tuesday. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela. 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. 28 Doadwoet tied - ty iners ol Buffal, Ben BS Deadwoot ek in His Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; o:, The santom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omana Ol. bi Dendwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 7B Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity 4 me, the Heroine, 77 peade baer mens Last reat or, Corduroy Charlie, 2100 Deadwooc ¢kin Leadville, aor penewors ane ag ei I'he Double Cross Sign. ao Jendwood ¢k as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick's Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. 188 Deadwood Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Dill. 149 Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 1566 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party, 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dreamy or, The Rivils of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick's Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel, +t Dendwood mick peo ir een Adventure, ZT Peadwood ck’s Den eal. 221 Deadwood Dick’s Death-Plant. 282 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughs, RGR Deadwood peeks pivides anne Spirit of Swamp Lake. 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. 809 Deadwood Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. 821 Deadwood Dick’sa Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats B47 Dendwood Dick’a Ducats; or, Days in the Diggings. B51 Deadwood Seay 5 Pm or, [he Terrible Vendetta, B62 Deadwood ¢k’s Claim, 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Dinmonda, 421 Deadwood Dick In New York; or, A “Cute Case.” Prt seep oer bs aca or, The Chained Hand. $ eadwoo ck, dr. 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Deflunce, 458 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Full Hand, Ab9 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Bic Round-Up. AGS Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Racket at Claim 10, 471 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. Bat Doctvecd, Hick? ary in Besanced. end woot ck, Jdr., In Des ° A9L Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Compact. nae Deadwood Wick Jr.'s, en ie 00 Deadwooa ck, Jdr.’s ggings. 508 Deadwood Dick, Sra, Deliverance, 515 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Protegee. H22 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Three. 529 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Danger Ducka, 684 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Death Hunt, 589 Deadwood Dick, Jr., tn Texas. 544 Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidocg 549 Deadwood Dick, Jr., on itis Mettle. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Gotham, 561 Deadwood Dick, Jdr., tn Boston, &67 Dendwood Dick, Jr., in Philadetphia, 572 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Chicago. 578 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Afloat. &S84 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Denver. 590 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Decree. 595 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin, 600 Deadwood Bick, Jr., at Coney Island. 606 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Lendville Lay. 612 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Detroit. 618 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinnati. G24 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Nevada, 680 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in No Man’s Land, 686 Dendwood Dick, Jr., After the Queer. 642 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. 648 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Chase Across the Gensinens ‘ , +h : » the & relers. ORG land col badd Notereece Cae 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines, 2 Deudwood Dick, Jr., tn Durango; or, Gathered In.” ri ¥4 peakweot preke a pescovery) or, Found a Fortune. eandw 00 cK, - S, PPazzle, 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s. Doliars. 695 Dendwood Dick, dr., at Danger Divide. TOO Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Drop. 704 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. 710 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in San Francisco, 716 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hunt, 722 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dominoes, 728 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Disguise. 784 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’4, Double Deal. 740 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathwatch, TAZ Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Doublet. BY CHARLES MORRIS. 118 Will Somers, the Boy Detective. 122 Phil Mardy, the Boss Boy. 126 Pienyune Pete 3 or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective, 180 Detective Dick; or, The Hero in Rags. 142 Handsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, 147 Will Whildtire, the Thoroughbred. 152 Black Beas, Will Wildfire’s Racer. 4157 Mike Merry the Harbor Police Boy, 162 Will Wildfire in the Woods, 165 Billy Bageage. the Railroad Boy. 170 A Trump Card; or, Will Wildfire Wins and Loses. 174. Bob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York. 179 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner, 488 The Midden Ttand ; or, Will Wildfire’s Revenge. 187 Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy; cr, The Smugglers, 189 Rob Roekett; or, Driven to the Wall. 196 Shadowed ; or, Bob Kockett’s Fight for afe, 206 Dark Paul, the Tiger King. 212 Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective, 220 Tom Tanner? or, The Black Sheep of the Flock, 235 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky, 235 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy, 242 The Two * Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang. 252 Dick Dashawny: or, A Dakota Boy in Chicago, 262 The Young Sharps: or, Rollicking Mike’s Hot Trail 274 Jolly Jim, the Detective Apprentice. 289 Jolly Jim’s Jobs or, The Young Detective, 298 The Water-Hound; or, The Young Thoronghored, 805 Dashuway, of Dakota; or, A Western Lad in Quaker City. 824 Kalph Ready, the Hote) Boy Detective. 841 Tony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective, 858 The Keporter-Detectives or, Fred Flyer’s Blizzara, 867 Wide-Awake Joe; or, A Boy of the Times, B29 Larry. the Leveler; or. The Bloods of the Boulevard. 408 Vireily Jack, the River-Rat Detective. 428 The Lost Finger; or, The Entrapped Cashier, 428 Fred Flyer. the Reporter Detective. 482 Invincible Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret. 456 Billy Britek, the Jolly Vaganond. 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive, 479 Detective Dodge: or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty, 488 Wild Dick Racket. 501 Roota, the Boy Fireman: or, Too Sharp for the Sharper, 668 The Secret “ervice Boy Detective. 598 Jimmy the Kids or, A Lamb Among Wolves. 7 Tom Bruce of Arkansas: or, The Wolf in the Fold, Paul, the Boy Speculator. 09 The Curbstone Detective: or, Harry Hale’s Big Beat, (SSS SSS SSS Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. 82 Bob Woolf’; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 8Y Death-Fuace, Detective; or, Life in New York, 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand. 53 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team, 69 Gold Rifle, tie Sharpshooter; or, The ey Detective. 80 Roachud Rob; or, Sr Ned, the Knight. 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand, 88 Phetograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance, 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp, 96 Watech-Eye 3 or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City, 8 Jack Hoyle the Young Speculator, Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. % Bonanza Dll, Minor. 8 Boss Bob the King of Bootblacks, Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. > Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scamps. Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo. YY Fritz, tho Bound-Boy Detective. 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventril 226 Snoozer, the Boy Shai); or, The Arab 286 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator 244 Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret.o 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret; or, The Bloody Footprinta, 258 Sierra Sawm/’s Pard; or, Uhe Angel of Big Vista. 258 Sierra Sam’s Sevens or, The Stwlen Bride. 278 Jumbo Joe, the "ey Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs. 277 Denver Poll, tv Detective Queen. 281 Denver Doll's. \ ictory. RSS VDenver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza. 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 296 Denver Doll’s Drift; or. The Road Queen. s 299 A No, 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 *Liza Jane, the Birl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 825 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia. 880 Little Quick-Shot; or, The Dead Face of Daggersville. 884 Kangnroe Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner, 889 Kangaroo Kit’» Racket. . 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Jlood, 858 Firat-Class Fred, ‘he Gent trom Gopher. 868 Yreka wim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Life Lottery. 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize. 878 Nabob Ned; or, The Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit. the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, BS5 Yreka Jim's Jokers or, The Rivals of Red Nose, 889 Bicycle Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lode, 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Marry, the Base Ball Detective. 426 Sam Slabsalides, the Beggar-Boy Detective. 484 Jim Benk and Pal, Private Detectives. 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 486 Sealskin Sam, the Sparkler. RY T. ©. WARBAUGTH, 28 Nick o’ the Night; or, The Boy Spy of ’76. 8&7 The Hidden Lodge; or The Little Hunter, 47 Nightingale end or, Tne Forest Captains. 64 Dandy Jack; or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trals. 82 Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack ; or, The Boy Trapper, 106 Old Frosty, the Guide; or, The White Queen. 128 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch Jr.t or, The Boy Vigilante. 155 Gold Trigger, the Sport; er, The Girl Avenger, 169 Tornado ‘Vom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core, 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy. 198 Arkansaw 7; or, The Quen of Fate’s Revenge. 207 Navajo Nick. the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain Bullet; er, Little Tonoknot’s Crasade, 231 Plucky Phils or, Rosa, the Re! Jezebel. 241 Bill Bravos or, Tie Roughs of the Rockies. 255 Captain Apoli , tne Kivg-Pin of Bowie, 267 The HKuckakin Detective. 279 Old Winch; or, The tuckskin Desneradoes, 294 Dynamite Dan; or, The Bowle Blade of Gochetopa. 802 The Mountain Detective: or, The Trigger Bar Bully, B16 Old Eclipse, Trump Curd of Arizona, 826 The Ten Pards: or, The Terror of Take-Notice. 886 Rie Benson: or, The Queen of the Larso. 845 Pitiless Matt; or, Ked Thunderholl’s Secret. B54 Moots amare Par 's or The Terrible Six. BEB Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. B86 Captain Cutlass; or, ' be B cenneer’s Girl Foe, 896 Rough Rob: or, The | win Champions of Blue Blazes, 411 The Silken: Lasso: or, The Rose of Ranch Robin, 418 Felix Fox, the Boy Spotter, 425 Texas Trump. the Border Rattler. 486 Phil lash, the New York Fox. 445 The City Vamnires; or, Ked Rolfe’s Pigeon, 461 One Against Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow: or, Felix Fox's Hunt. 477 The Exceisior Sport: or, The Washington Spotter, 499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ren, the Night ferret. 512 Dodmrer Mek, the Wharf-Spy Detective, 521 Dodger Rick's Rest Dodge. 528 Fox and Faicon, the Bowery Shadows, 588 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret, 548 Dodger Dick’s Double: or, The Rival Boy Detectives, 558 Dodeer Dick's Desperate Case. 568 Dodger Dick, the Boy Vidocq. 5678 The Two Shadows, 582 Dodger Dick’s Drop. 594 Little Lon, the Street-Singer Detective. 610 Old Skinner, the Gold Shark; or, Tony Sharp on Guard. 626 The Champion Pards. 687 Dick Doan, the Dock Boy Detective. 645 Kit, the Pavement Sharp. 658 Rilly Bantam, the Boy Beagle. ‘ 671 Jersey Jedd, the Boy Hustler; or, Shadowing the Shadower. 685 Wappy Hugh, the Boy Musician Detective. 701 Photograph Fred, the Camera Sharp. 715 Wide Awake Len, the Quaker City Pinal %82 Daisy Dell, the Pavement Detective; or, Trapping Big Game. BY WM. G. PATTEN. 489 The Diamond Sport: or, The Double Face of Bed Rock. B19 Cantain mystery ¢ or, Five in One. 681 Daisy are the Sport from Denver. BST Old KHombshell, the Ranger Detective, 604 Tron Ferny, the Man of Fire. 619 The Boy Tramp Betective: or, The Doubie Grip Witness 629 Violet Vane, the Velvet Spon, 641 Piamal Pave’s Dandy Pard, 651 Round Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective 684% Violet Vane’a Victory, « GR2 Wild Vulcan, the Lore Range Rider, G9F Violet and Pasay, the Posy Parda. 705 Violet Vane’s Vow: or, The Cratty Detective’s Craft. 714 Old Misery, the Man from Missourl. 724 Violet Vane’s Venreance. 780 Violet Vane’s Verdict. Z41 Violet Vane, the Ventriloquist Vidoog, Ot et et pte fh fe fe pet SENS PREKOHS media tm toyrmrl uist Hunter, jetective, ' apt Depey os iene te BEADLE'S*H ALF- DIME* LIBRARY. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers. BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 7% The Flying Vankee} or, The Ooenn Outcast, 17 Ralph Roy, the boy Bucean er; or. The Fugitive Yacht. 24 Diamond Dirks or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone. 62 The Shadow Ships or, The Rival Lieutenanta, 7S The Boy Duelist; or, The Cruise of the Sea- Wolf, 102 Dick ewe A the Boy Smuggier. 114 The Sea-Devils or, Ve Midshipman’s Legacy. 116 The Hussar Captuia 3 or, ‘he Hermit of Hell Gate. 197 Little Grits; or, Bessie, the Stock-Tender's Daughter. 204 Gold Plume ; or, Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider, 216 Bison BALL, the Prince of the Reins; or, Buifalo Bill’e Pluck. 222 Grit, the Bravo Sporty; or, The Woman Trailer. 229 Orimson Kate; or, The Cowboy's Triumph. 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 245 Merle, the Middy as he Freelance Heir. 250 The Midshipman Mutineer 3; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer, 264 The Floating Feather: or, Merle Monte’s Treasure. 26 The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned. 276 Meric Monte’s Cralse; or, * The Gold Ship ” Chase. 250 Merle Monte’s Fate ; or. Pearl, the Pirate's Bride, 284 The Sea Marauder; or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. 287 Billy Biue-Eyes, the Boy Rover of the Rio Grande. 804 The Dead &. ot Dandy 3 or, Bento. the Boy Bugler, BOS Keno Kit; or, Dead Shot Dandy’s Double, 814 The Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler's Trail. 877 Bonodel, the Buy Kover; or, The F'}.gless Schooner, 888 The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island. 887 Warpath WILL, the Boy Phantom. 898 Seawalf; the Boy Lieutenant. 402 Isvdor, the Young Conspirator ; or, The Fatal League, 407 The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta, 412 The Wild Vachtamansy or, The War-Cloua’s Cruise. 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 A Cabin Boy’s Luck; or, The Corsair. 487 The Sen Ralder. 441 The Ocean Firefly; or, A Middy’s Vengeance. 446 Haphazard Harry ; or, Tne Scapegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizard Wills or, The Boy Ferre: of New York. 454 Wizard Will's Street Scouts 462 The Born Guldeys or, The Salior Boy Wanderer, 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Conster, 474 Floray or, Wizard Will's Vagabond Pard, 488 Ferrets Affont: or, Wizard Will’s Last Case. 487 Nevada Ned, the Revolver Kanger 495 Arizona doe the Boy Pard of Texas Jack. 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 508 The Royal Middy ¢ or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. 507 The Hunted eg Oe on as 5611 The Outlawed Middy. 520 Buekskin Bill, the Comanche Shadow. 525 Brothers in Buckskin, 530 The Buckski ) Bowers. 585 The Bue skin Rovers, 540 Captain ku-Klux, the Marauder ot the Rio, 545 Licutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte, 550 Lafitte’s Legacy: or. The Avenging Son, 555 The Creole Corsalr. 560 Pawnee BUM, the Prairie Shadower. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. 570 Camille, the Card Queen. 575 The Surgeon-Scout Detective, 5680 The Outcost Cndct; or, ‘The False Detective. 586 The Buckskin Avenger, 591 Delmorte, the Young Sea Rover. 597 ‘The Young Toxun Detective. 602 Tho Varabord ofthe Mines, 607 The Rover _ Detective; or, Keno Kit’s Champions. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shet Scout; or, The Rio Raiders. 644 The Hercules Highwayman, | 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Kider Detective; or, Buffalo Bill’s Boy Para, 656 Butterfly Rilly’s Man Hunt, 662 Butterfly Blily’s Benanza. 668 The Buceancer Midshipman. 674 The Wizard Sailor; or, Red Ralph, the Rover. 679 The Sen Shadowery or, The Freebeot.r’s ACYs 686 Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag; or, Tue Tarnished Name. 692 The Rival Sharps; or, Redfern, the Seeret Service Scout. 697 The Scarlet Sombrero; or, The Sharp from Texas. 702 Blue Jacket Bill; or, The Red Hat Rangers’ Red Hot Racket 707 The Red Sombrero Rangers; or, Redfern’s Last Trail, 718 Carl, the Mad Cowboy; or, The Lariat Queen, 719 Pawnee Bill’s Pledge; or, The Cowboy Kidnapper, %25 Daring Dick, Pawnee Bill's Pard; or, The Red Cavalry Raid. 781 Ruth Redmond, the Girl Shadower, %87 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. BY BUFFALO BILL (ion. Wm. F. Cody). 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand, 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Peadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout, 68 Border Robin Woody; or, The Prairie Rover. 168 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust, LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 742 Billy Winka, the Bell Boy Detective; or, Breaking the Meshes of the Golden Coil, By T. C. Harbaugh. 748 Buck Taylor’« Boys; or, The Red Ritera of the Rio Grande, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. V44 Dick of the Docks, the Night-Watch; or, The Water Wait’s Dead Past, By Jo Pierce. 745 Kansas Jim, the Cross-Cut Detective; or, The Raiders of the Range. By Lieut. A. K. Sima. Jack, the Secret Service Spy; or, Too Much for Red ro erm By Dan Dunning, (of the Secret Serviee Corps). prs Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Doublet; or, The T T #68 of Teddy's Tailings. By Edward lL. Wheeler. rn Stlverblade, the Friendly; or, The Border Beagle’a Bo das Pard. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. es ahi. Lisa 749 Dashing Charlie, the Young Scalp-Taker; or, The Kentucky Tenderioot’s First Trail. By Col Prentiss Ingraham, — 750 Violet Vane, the Vanquished; or, The Life Straggle at Shanty City. By Win. G. Patten. = 751 Gold-Dust Pan, the Trail Patrol. By John W. Osbon. Ready Deceniber 15. 752 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathblow; or, Tho Little Cirens nt ast Chance, By Edward L, Wheeler. Ready Devember 22, A New Insue Every Tuesday. The Half- Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cente each, BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York,
Page 16
1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, The Double Daggers. 28 Deadwood Dick in Disguise; or, Buffalo Ben, the Prince of the Pistol, 85 Deadwooi Dick in his Castle; or, Wild Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval, 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; or, The Phantom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omaha Oll, the Masked Terror, 57 Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 73 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity Jane, the Heroine of Whoop-up. 77 Deadwood Dick’s Last Act; or, Corduroy Caarlie, the Boy Rover. 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A Strange Stroke for Liberty. 104 Deadwood. Dick’s Device; or, The Sign of the Double Cross, 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective, 129 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gorgon’s Guleb. 138 Deadwood Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Bill. 149 Deadsnod Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwoed Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hills Jezebel. 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Last Adventure, 217 Deadwood Dick’s Dead Deal; or, Captain Crack-Shot, the Girl Brigand. 221 Deadwoed Dick’s Death Plant; or, Sugar- Coated Sam, 232 Gold-Dust Dick; or, The Three Wild Men of Eagle Bar, 263 Deadwood Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail: or, From Ocean to Ocean. 809 Deadwood Dick’s. Big Deal: or, The Gold Brick of Gregon. 821 Deadwood Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Fiats, 347 Deadwood Dick’s Ducats; or, Rainy Days in the Diggings. Deadwood Dick Novels in Beadle's Half-Dime Library. 351 Deadwood Dick Sentenced; or, The Terrible Vendetta. 862 Deadwood Dick’s Claim; or, The Fairy Face of Faro Flats. 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonds; or, The Mystery of Joan Porter. 421 ee Dick in New York; or, A Cute Jase, 430 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand, 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr.; or, The Sign of the Crimson Crescent, 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Defiance; or, Nickle- Plate Ned. 453 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Full Hand; or, Sun- flower Sam of Shasta. 459 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Big Round-up; or Flush Fan, the Ferret, 465 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Racket at Claim 10; or; Philo Fly, of Phenix. 471 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill of Big Brace, 476 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dog Detective; or, Humboldt Harry, the Hurricaue, 481 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Deadwood; or, Moll Mystery. 491 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Compact; or, Prince Prstol, the King of the West. 496 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Inheritance; or, Monte Cristo, Jr. 500 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Diggings; or, Doctor Death Grip’s Swoop. 508 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deliverance; or, Fatal Footsteps, 515 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Protege; or, Baby Bess, the Girl Gold Miner. 522 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Three; or The ‘ Bel- lerin’ Bull” of Bismark, 529 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Danger Ducks; or, The Owls of Oregon, 5384 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Death Hunt; or, The Way of the Transgressor. 539 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Texas; or, The Ghouls of Galveston. 544 Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidocq; or, Leonora, the Locator, 549 Deadwood Dick, Jr., on His Mettle; or, Cap- tain Crimson-Cowl, the Road Raider. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham; or, Un- raveling a Twisted Skein, 561 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boston; or,. The Cool Case, 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadelphia; or, The Wild West Detective among the Crooks, 572 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Chicago; or, The Anarchist’s Daughter. 578 Deadwood Dick, Jr,, Afloat; or, The Prisoner of the Weird Isles, 584 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Denver. or, Cool Kate, the Queen of Crooks, 590 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Decree; or, The Prince of Purgatory Pass, 595 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin; or, The Old Man of Mount Mab, 600 Deadwood Dick, dr., at Coney Island; or, The ‘' Piping” of Polly Pilgrim. 606 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Leadville Lay; or, Bristol and Bucket’s Boom. 612 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Detroit; or, Turning the Tables on Satan. 618 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinnati; or, The Clincher Campaign, 624 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Nevada; or, The Preacher of Pokerville, 630 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in No Man’s Land; or, Golconda, the Gladiator, 636 Deadwood Dick, Jr., After the Queer; or, Sawdust Sam’s Last Green Game. 642 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo; or, 4-11-44. 648 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Chase across the Con-~ tinent; or, A Race for a Ruthless Rogue. 654 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Among the Smugglers, or, Cleaning Out the Gulf Gang. 660 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Insurance Case; or, Corraling a Cunning Trio, 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines; or, The Mountain Amazon’s Double Game. 672 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Durango; or, *¢ Gathered In,” 678 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Discovery; or, Found a Fortune, 684 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dazzle; or, The Nemesis of Nutmeg Bonanza. 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dollars; or, The Hummingbird of Honeysuckle, 695 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Danger Divide; or, Developing the Dead Secret. 700 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Drop; er, The So- journ at Satan’s Spring. 704 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-pot; or, Mak- ing Crooked Things Straight. 710 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in San Francisco; or, Kodak Kate, the Snap-Shot, 716 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hums; or, The Second Round in San Franciseo, 722 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s. Dominoes, or, The Rival Camps of the Northern Border. 728 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Disguise; er, Ivan, the Man of Iron. 734 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Deal; or, The All-Around Surprise, 740 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathwatch; or, The Moving Mystery at Mexican Mustang. 747 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Doubletz or, The Tandem Team of Teddy’s Tailings, For sale by all newsdealers at five cents per copy, or sent by mail, post-paid, on receipt of six cents each, BEADLE AND ADAMS, PusiasHERrs, 98 William Street, New York.. : -