Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 670) (1890 05 27)
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| nN ue Copyright 1890, by BEADLE AND ADAMS PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, 5 Cents. | HRY )) ly Uf) fj {If f iy | ; / if @ if | \ MY, ~The Rival Ranehmen BY OLL COOMES, AUTHOR OF ‘“‘VAGABOND JOE,” ‘* WHIP-KING JOE,” ‘‘ OLD TOM RATTLER,” ETC, : (/ | Reet / - ~‘ \ ‘ ») CHAPTER I. . Bg SF ga S a, DOCTOR DAVE’S CABIN, ae ff So SS __ A BLUE. smoky haze hung weirdly over the Laramie Plams, dimly vailing the rugged out- lines of the far-off Snowy Range and mellowing - : the fierce rays of an early September sun. = =i —> ———— : Along =e old Indian trail, running northward - ——— = apes +e yaar JD re hie - across the plains into the foothills of the moun- , DUSKY FACE OF THE PRINCESS _ tains, a young man in the garb of a ranchero RAVEN EYES, STANDING UNMOVED BEFORE THEM! ap oe ete er See | 5 ip eo \ \\i] | |
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ing gallop, while yet the western sky. » horseman, was a young nty, and possessed of a fine oar, bright blue eye, and an elligent countenance, wner of a small cattle-ranch ashing little tributary of the *. He was well known far angemen, hunters, and even spitality, bis intelligence and ‘tern pluck and energy, and ss tact, young Temple had cattle business some three his introduction. His herd he numbered his cattle by rhile others counted by the as young, hopeful and con- b for the wealth of the cattle nile ride over the plain, the entered the hill country, and many miles, finally drawing rein at n humble log cabin in a little moun- surrounded by towering pine-clad 9in waz the home of a man named Ptter known as ‘‘ Doctor Dave,” and the Medicine.” He had lived there for long before the Laramie Plains had be- 5 a cattle-range—when ,the country was Fuder the dominion of the Sioux. For years he had been the medicine-man of the red-skins, and upon more than one occasion had he led a war- party to victory against hostile red-skius. And thus, as war-chief and medicine-man, had the strange and 5d agedopege David Bond forever made the Sioux his friends, Dismounting, Dan Temple hitched his horse and approached the cabin, At the door he was met by the daughter of Doctor Dave, and, had’ it not been that he had met her ofttimes before, he must have been amazed by the entrancing beauty and grace of the little mountain fairy, Alfa Bond, Few would have thought that in the veins of this fair girl was a trace of Indian blood. But, such was the case. David Bond had married a ’ woman whose father was a French Canadian, a man of education and culture, and whose mother fs the daughter of an Indian chief by a white wife, Alfa Bond was not over seventeen, She had a slender, graceful form; dark, liquid blue eyes, beaming with an expression as mild and chaste as an infant’s; features clear-cut and intelligent and lips just full enough to show the red, curved lines of the mouth, A wealth of dark-brown hair hung in two long braids at her back. She was dressed in a very neat and pretty garb of an Indian maiden, but wore no jewelry or orna- ments of barbaric finery. ‘*Good-evening, Miss Alfa!” Dan Temple saluted, as she appeared in the doorway. The maiden acknowledged his salutation with a little confusion, for she had not been aware of his presence until she met him at the door, but, at the same time, her surprise appeared to be a very pleasant one, She invited the young ranchman into the cabin, and in her words and actions showed that he was an agreeable caller, ‘*['m sorry to say, Mr. Temple,” she said, as Dan seated himself, ‘‘that father is out, and may not be in for Some time.” ‘His absence is quite a fortunate thing for. me,” Dan replied, *‘for, to tell you plainly, Alfa, ’ve come to see you and git your answer to my proposal of a month ago,” . **Mr, Temple,” Alfa responded, her pretty face flushed and her bosom heaving with some inward emotion, ‘t I have made up my mind not to leave my father’s home so long as he lives, I am all he has in the world to love and care for, and to leave himy alone, I never could; and, as or him giving up this hermit’s life, he declares he never will. So it seems to me, Mr. Temple, my first duty is to my father,” “All very true, Alfa, I must honestly con- fess,” Dan responded, a look of sore disappoint- ment on his fine face; “ but, what pat me most anxious is your personal safety. Your father looks for immunity from danger from his old friends, the Sioux; but, year by year the are dropping further back into the hills until it is now thirty miles or more to the nearest vil- lage. Meantime, you have grown to woman- hood, a very charming womanhood, and as these hills are becoming infested with bad men, I re- gard you as no longer secure, here, Why, it was less than a year ago that the notorious Kettle Jack abducted the daughter of a promi- nent ranchman and forced her into marriage with him, the brute! It would be much safer if your father would take up his abode in the In- dian village, if he could not be prevailed upon to go elsewhere,” “ This little valley is very sacred to him, Mr. Temple,” Alfa replied, ‘because it is where my dear mother lies buried.” ‘* While that is very true, and speaks volumes for the devotion of your father to the memory of his dead wife, and the place that holds her sacred dust, I believe it is true, also, that he would not let this stand in the way of your safety were he fully apprised of the dangers that are gathering around you. At any rate, I mean to speak to him about it at the first op- portunity.” ‘*'You are very kind, Mr. Temple,” the girl said, a light of undisguised admiration beaming in her eyes; ‘ but, father is a strange man, you know.” ‘* He always struck me, Alfa, as one with a secret sorrow. He is a man of education and quite wonderful knowledge considering how isolated has been his life, and it is a mystery to me why he should spend his days among Indians and in these dreary hills. Mind you, I do not believe for a moment it is because of any wrong he may have done, for Iam sure David Bond is incapable of evil.” “Oh, thank you! thank you!” cried Alfa, joyfully; ‘‘to hear this from you is most grati- fying tome, Another gentleman that comes to see us occasionally has urged us to leave here and go to Laramie to live because the suspicion was gaining credence that father was, himself, an outlaw, or the friend of outlaws,” ‘*That man was no gentleman, but a knave Miss Alfa,” Dan declared with emphasis; ‘‘ mistrust who the fellow is, and the object he had in view. But, Alfa—” The sound of a footstep outside and a sharp rap on the half-open door, cut short the young ranchman’s words, and Alfa, rising, opened the door to admit the very person Daniel Temple had in mind, Clinton Roper, who was now ac- companied by a man—a stranger to both Dan and the maiden. CHAPTER IL BAD BLOOD, CLINTON ROPER was a person of thirty years, with a tall and splendidly formed physique, and a face that would have been handsome bad it not been for the visible traces of dissipation upon it, He was the owner of the Cross-Bar Ranch, and a rival of Dan Temple, not only in the cattle-business, but for the hand of Alfa Bond. Possessed of a jealous and sinister nature he had, for some time, striven hard to injure and disgrace young Temple, at the same time proteome ng friendship to his face, But Dan had en fully aware of “his double-dealing, and quietly bided the time when a reaction would bring an exposure of the man’s duplicity, as well as his associations with certain strangers whose coming and going between the mountains — Cross-Bar Ranch had a very suspicious ook, That he was surprised to find young Temple at Doctor Dave’s there was little doubt; but, with an air of affected indifference, he greeted Alfa and the ranchman warmly, and to both in- troduced his companion as Ira Bondurant, a gentleman from the East, The latter was a man of fifty years, He was a pleasant, business-like-looking gentleman whose garb and address were not of the West, These facts, Dan Temple noticed at a glance. Roper at once inquired for Doctor Dave, and Alfa informed him that her father had taken fe rifle and gone out forashort hunt in the ills. It was not a great while, however, until the hermit returned. He was a man of five-and- fifty years, with snow-white hair and beard, and a kindly and intelligent face. Clint Roper introduced the old man to Mr. Bonduract, adding: ‘“‘T met Mr. Bondurant in Laramie a week ago, and finding out he was looking for a man of your description, I prevailed upon him to ac- company me to Cross-Bar Ranch, and make you a visit, 1 having promised to escort him here from my ranch, If you are the person he seeks he certainly has some pleasant news for you,” Doctor Dave started and glanced at the stranger in a manner that evinced some uneasi- sae then as a smile wreathed his lips, he said: ‘‘Mr, Bondurant has certainly struck the wrong trail.” fore the stranger could reply Dan Temple arose, bid his friends good-by and took his leave, orway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. He thought that Mr. Bondurant’s visit might be of a private nature, hence his departure. Dan did not notice that Clint Roper had fol- lowed him out until he had reached bis horse and heard his name spoken from behind. Trrn- ing he found himself confronted by the Cross- Bar proprietor, upon whose face there was a look of malignant scorn and derision. ** Dan Temple, I desire a word with you before you go,” the ranckman said curtly, ‘* With pleasure, sir,” responded Dan. - want an apology, sir, from you!” Roper said, ‘* For what?” questioned Dan, ‘* Before I rapped upon that partly open cabin door, a few minutes ago, on my arrival here with Mr, Bondurant,” the ranchman explained, ‘*T paused long enough to hear you denounce me as a knave to Miss Bond.” ‘* You heard me use no name,” replied Dan, “Tt was well understood by Alfa whom you meant, sir,” Roper retorted, ‘and you made the remark as a reflection on my character, and ” ** Clint Roper!” exclaimed Dan with an air of rovoking defiance, ‘‘ I have noapology to make, f the shoe fits you, wear it !” ‘* Dan Temple!” retorted Roper, red with an- ger, ‘‘ you shall swallow that insult unless you’re a better man than I!” ‘¢ Which I certainly am,” coolly responded the young ranchman; “and as this is no place to settle the matter, you’ve only to come with me down the valley, or name the time and place, and you can have sweet satisfaction,” “Pll send a man to your ranch to-night to make all necessary arrangements and, in the mean time, Dan Temple, you can order your grave dug, or make up your mind to apologize in Alfa’s presence,” and turning, the wrathy ranchero returned to the cabin, while young Temple mounted and rode away. Roper re-entered the cabin, all smiles, just in time to hear Doctor Dave make this admission: “Vl confess, Mr. Bondurant, that my name once was Powell D. Mitchell, but for twenty-five years it has been ‘David Bond,’ ‘ Doctor Dave,’ and ‘ White Medicine.’ Why I left civilization, and have tried to blot it from my memory, is my own secret; but [ thank God that I can say it was for no crime of mine,” ‘“* And have you never heard from your friends in all these years, doctor?” asked Bondurant, ‘* Not one word,” answered the hermit, * Weli, the fact is, doctor,” said Bondurant, ** your father died but ten months since.” ** Indeed?” exclaimed Bond, an expression of sadness passing over his face, “* He died, aged eighty-one, and his last words were of bis son, Powell,” ** Poor old man!” sighed the hermit, bis eyes filling with tears; ‘‘ may Heaven forgive me if I permitted my troubles to add one grain of bitter- ness to his life,” ‘‘ He always spoke kindly of you and your sorrow, and up to the last hour hoped to see you before he died, But, doctor, he is gone to a bet- ter reward, and has left all his wealth to you—a cool quarter of a million in cash and bonds.” “Why to me?” exclaimed the hermit; ‘‘ what need of wealth have [? In this humble cabin, Sy rifle and my child here, I have a!) the riches I desire,” “But, you are growing old, doctor, and you cannot always be a hunter; you are liable to sickness and injury. Your daughter might be taken from you by death or—or some of these handsome young ranchmen who, I observe, see an attraction in the home of Doctor ave, already.” Alfa blushed crimson and a confused smile played about her lips, while the brow of her father contracted slightly as with a twinge of ain. “Should any contingency arise,” the hermit replied, ‘‘ whereby I should become helpless or dependent, I could find devoted friends among the Indians whom I have served for a quarter of a century.” “Then let your daughter take your inheri- tance,” urged Bondurant, ‘for it goes to you or your issue. In case +70 or any of your children were never found, then all was to go to charity.” ‘ ‘* My dear sir,” said Bond, ‘I have admitted that my name is Powell Mitchell, but are you sure that Iam that man? Are you satisfied I am not animpostor? You explained to me your business here in such a manner that I could easily have acknowledged I was the man you sought, “That's all very true, doctor,” replied Bondu- rant, ‘‘but there is a combination of circum- stances that lead me to know you are the man I
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seek, One of these is your resemblance to your father.” ‘‘ Well, well,” returned the hermit, glancing with a look of deep solicitude at his daughter, ‘*{ want time—a day or two to think this mat- ter over,” ‘“‘That J will grant,’ assured Bondurant, ‘*for T am bound to know before I leave here what Iam to do with your father’s wealth, all of which lies in an Ohio bank in cash, bonds and securities. Moreover, I think I shall enjoy a day or two of rest in this little Paradise-like Park,” “Then you will not return with me to my ranch?” Clint Roper observed, ‘*No; but I shall keep my promise and stop over a day or two with you before | depart the country.” ‘‘Then I had better be going, for it is not long until night, and I’ve a long ride before me, You may keep my horse here, Mr, Bondurant, until you come down to the Cross- Bar, You'll be likely to need him, Miss Alfa has a superb little pony, and is a superb rider, and 1 advise you to have her ride with you to Palisade Park before you leave, for it’s one of the most romantic sputsin Wyoming. So, J will bid you all good-evening.” The ranchman took his departure, Doctor Dave going out with him to where his horse was hitched to see him off, “Mr. Roper is a very pleasant and hospitable gentleman,” remarked [ra Bondurant to Alfa, as the ranchman departed. ‘Yes, sir,” Alfa replied, ‘he has been very — to us, and yet, lam selfish enough, Mr. ondurant, to wish Clinton Roper knew nothing of your roission here,” “Why, Miss Bond?” the man asked, in sur- prise. “While you were talking,” Alfa exclaimed, ‘‘ strange expressions passed over bis face; he glanced at you and father in a nervous way and all the while seemed uneasy and restless, i may be wrong, Mr. Roper, but, Mr. Bondurant, I have little confidence in him,” ‘* Woman’s instinct is more penetrating than man’s, I'll confess,” admitted Mr. Bondurant, ‘but if Iam any judge of human nature, Alfa, you are mistaken as to the big-hearted ranch- man,” **T hope so,” was Alfa’s response, but it was plain to see that she still adhered to her opinion of Clinton Roper. CHAPTER III, THE DUEL. Brush CREEK and Cross-Bar Ranches were only five miles distant from each other, The employers of each had always been on the friendliest terms, despite the dislike of Clinton Roper for Dan Temple. Roper was the first to locate in that part of the country, and regarded Temple’s coming there asan infringement of his rights of priority, hence his feelings against the young ranchero, Temple had been fully aware of Roper’s enmity, but, regarding his right to the public domain as good as that of any other man, he resolved to stand by it. No words, however, had ever passed between them until the day Roper at- tacked Temple in front of Doctor Dave’s cabin, and challenged him for an apology ora fight for words he had overheard spoken by Temple. If Roper had had an idea that Dan Temple would make a retraction rather than fight he was sadly mistaken, and that his hot-headed haste had got him into a serious predicament from which there was no backing down, And, true to bis promise, the ranchman sent one of his men, Jack Dean, up to Brush Creek Ranch to arrange terms with Temple’s second, for the fight, It was past noon the next day after the challenge, however, before Roper’s man came, and Temple was not a little surprised to learn that Roper had not returned from Doctor oexee until the middie of the forenoon, that ay. Jack Dean and ‘“Broncho” Dick, Temple’s man, held a short conference and considered the possibility of first trying to bring about a settle- ment of the trouble between their employers without bloodshed. Two or three trips were made by the men between the two ranches that afternoon. Each principal was willing to com- promise the diffieu — the other would make a written weer he effort to settle, conse- uently, proved a failure, and it was arranged or the fight to come off the next morning at ten o'clock, the usual sunrise hour for duels being disregarded by the seconds. Another new feature was to be introduced in this fight; as Winchester rifles of 45—90 caliber were to be the weapons, a thousand yards was to be the distance between the combatants at the beginning of the fight. After the first shot the duelists, if neither of them had been hit, were to advance toward each other, firing at will until one or the other was killed or placed hors du combat, The place selected for the duel was ‘* The Sand Trough,” a long, deep, sand-covered basin in the foot-hills sonre five miles from Brush Creek Ranch, It was nearly a mile in length by per- haps eighty rods in width. On one side an un- broken chain of high, wooded bluffs rose like a mighty wall, while on the other side the bluffs were broken and cut by defiles that trended away into the mountains. At the appointed hour for the duel the ranch- men and their respective friends appeared in The Sand Trough. A thousand yards were measured off, lots cast for position and then each man and his friends rode down to his end of the range. A man was stationed midway between, and to one side of the duelists to give the signal for the shooting match to begin. After the principals had reacbed their posi- tions, dismounted, and strapped a belt of fixed ammunition about their middles, filled the magazines of tbeir rifles and bid their friends good-by, they signaled their readiness for busi- ness to the man down the range. The seconds and their friends now rode off some twenty rods to one side, for, at that dis- tance, glancing bullets were liable to take a wide range, Each second was provided with a field-glass, and closely watched the movements of bis op- ponents, Suddenly a puff of smoke was seen to burst on the air, down the field, and was immediately followed by the report of a gun, It was the sig- nal for the fight. The first shots from the duelists’ rifles quickly followed, and almost together, Clint Roper’s bullet fell fully thirty rods short of the mark, dashing up a cloud of sand, while that of Temple went to the right and beyond his adversary. Roper’s second shot was still short, but he was gradually getting the range, Advancing toward each other with quick footsteps, they continued firing. Their friends moved along abreast of them, in deep and terrible suspense, Roper had emptied the magazine of his rifle— sixteen shots—in going a hundred paces, He stopped to reload. oung Temple, who had made but ten shots in the mean time, ceased firing, also—not because his enemy had, but be- cause of the sudden appearance from the bluffs on the right of the basin of a horseman, who galloped across the range, and drew rein mid- way bevween and directly in line with the duel- ists. An exclamation of surprise burst from the lips of Broncho Dick, who saw at a glance, through his glass, that the horseman was a woman! But this fact Dan Temple quickly perceived with the unaided eye, and, what was more, he recognized her’, despite the distance, as Alfa, the daughter of Doctor Dave! Standing on a line between the duelists, she excitedly waved a white handkerchief above nid head, as if in appeal for a cessation of hos- tilities, It quickly flashed tbrough Temple’s mind that her presence there was the work of his and Roper’s seconds, who had tried every other means to avert a conflict. But, be this as it may, the youne ranchman, thoroughly ashamed of the usiness in which the girl had found him, de- clined to fire another shot in her presence, even if he could have done so without endangering her life, Clint Roper was less conscientious, Having taken in the situation, he swore Alfa’s presence was a ruse of Temple's to help him out of his difficulty, and he again opened fire on Dan; the distance requiring an elevation, he knew that would carry his bullets high above the girl’s head. However, he had fired but three shots thus, when there came another interruption to the unique duel of a most startling character. It was the sight of half a score of mounted savages, who burst like a whirlwind from the bluffs, and with demoniac yells rode straight to- ward the maiden! CHAPTER IV. A WILD RIDE. For a moment or two the duelists and their friends stood as if stupefied, gazing at the yell- ing savages as they swept across the basin to- ward the girl. Alfa, herself, was terror-stricken at sound of the red-skins’ voices, She knew in an instant that they were not tho fr outlaw or *‘ wild” savages, too glad to strike a blow at cf both ber and her pa urning toward Dan Ter she essayed to escape to then anticipating such a movemen the right, and urged their he of speed to cut off her esca her, Then a hideous wretch big horse rode alongside of b from her pony to a position in other savage taking charge of Then the whole party turf down toward Temple and his friefits, the demon with the captive riding in advance. “Dan!” exclaimed Broncho Dick, as he and his friends rode up to where the young ranch- man stood, ‘‘ we’re in for a fight or a foot-race!” Dan Temple made no response, but droppin upon one knee he raised his rifle, took carefu aim, and fired. One of the foremost Indian’s pony went down, but in a moment the red-skin was up and astride of Alfa’s animal. A second and a third shot was fired by Dan, when, all of a sudden, the foe turned and gal- loped away toward the bluffs, one of their num- ber evidently mortally wounded, for he had to be supported on his horse by a friend riding at his side. By this time Clint Roper and his friends were in their saddles riding furiously across the basin as if to reach the bluffs ahead of the red-skins, This, however, they failed to do, but they turned into a defile some distance from the one taken hy the foe and disappeared from view of the Brush Creek men. Leaping into his saddle, Dan Temple ex- claimed: ** broncho, you come with me to the cabin of Doctor Dave, and, boys, the rest of you hasten to the ranch, for I fear a general raid is bein made all along the line, The duel is postpone for the present.” The young ranchman and his friend, Broncho Dick, now dashed away across the Sand Trough, heading for the home of Doctor Dave, fifteen or twenty miles away. Their ponies were animals of tested endurance, and they knew exactly what speed they could stand for a given distance, and that s they maintained to its utmost, ‘‘We must reach the cabin and warn the doc-~ tor of Alfa’s peril,” Dan declared; ‘‘ if the maid- en’s captors have not already been there and—” “Dan,” spoke Broncho Dick, ‘‘I am afraid they bave, and that Alfa, escaping, came south for help, the red devils pursuing her,” “Ah! I bad mistrusted that her presence in the basin was your and Jack Dean’s work,” ‘Not at all, Dan,” assured Broncho, ‘Then it’s the doings of Clint Roper!” decided Temple. ‘That may be,” replied Dick, ‘* for Jack Dean told me yesterday that he thought his boss had some other big scheme on hand than the duel, But what object he could have in draggin’ that gal down here I can’t conceive,” “Time will tell, Dick,” responded Temple. Swiftly the miles glided behind the rancheros, and they were nearing the cabin of Doctor Dave when Broncho suddenly observed: ‘* Dan, it seems to me there’s smoke in the air from burning pine.” ‘*Phere’s a fire somewhere about, sure,” de- elared Temple. The deep, pine-clad hills around them shut off all view, but when they at length dashed into the little park wherein stood the home of the hermit, the source of the smoke fell with appall- ing surprise upon their eyes. The cabin of Doctor Dave was in flames, and almost wholly consumed, ‘* Great God!” cried Temple, * the work of the old bermit’s enemies has been complete.” Without another word they rode on up to the burning but, where they were grected witha spectacle of horror that made them sick at heart. In frontof the burning cabin lay Doctor Dave, bis white bair and beard covered with blood, He was dead, and had been scalped which fact told that his death was the work o the wild red-skins, ‘* Heavens!” exclaimed Temple, ‘ this is hor- rible! Only two days ago I begged of Alfa to induce ber father to leave this lonely, dangerous Meies The doctor knew he had enemies amon he red-skins, as well as friends, It is the wor of the lawless devils that infest the Wind River country, and there will poor Alfa be taken! Broncho, she shall be rescued if it costs me my life. I shall mount and ride at once for the cabin of Norway Nels, the big Scandinavian hunter, and procure his assistance, You re~-
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or Dave to a place of burial can be secured, Indian village of Walk- what has befallen their fave him send warriors on ductors. It’s a long, fifty but you are good for it, 3d may God speed you on ne excited, and now thor- g ranchero, turned away n and set off on his jour- orway Nels, far up in the Py s, his brain in a feverish dirl of ex¢itemient, As he galloped away vhrough the silent hills, eye and ear on the alert for lurking danger, he made a careful review of the events of the past two days; and, while thus engaged, it suddenly occurred to him that he had never once thought of Doctor Dave’s visitor, Ira Bondurant, while he stood at the dead man’s side, And now the queries arose in his mind: what was the object of his visit at Doctor Dave's? —where was he now?—-had he gone away with the man who had taken bim there, or bad he fallen a victim to the savages’ vengeance, also? The more he pondered over the matter, the slronger became the conviction that the visit of Ira Bonduraut at the hermit’s had something to do with the present terrible state of affairs. Just why this thought was forced upon his mind, he could not tell. Itseemed to come intui- ively—unbidden, There was nothing suspicious about the man. He bad the appearance of an honest and honorable gentleman. From the cause that led to the death of Doctor Dave, if there was any other than the pure evengeful cussedness cf the old man’s murderers, Dan Temple turned his thoughts to the si- ility of rescuing Alfa. Tosecure the assistance bf Norway Nels, a noted young hunter, and riend of his, was his first thought, That in- ividual was familiar with every canyon, defile nd trail in that part of Laramie Mountains; ub just what they could >, after they had ound the maiden’s abductors, against great dds must be determined when that time came, The ride before the young ranchman was a png and tedious one, through rocky canyons, in ee - deep defiles, and over steep and broken ills. In ascending and descending the latter 9 dismounted and walked in order to husband pe strength of his noble horse. The sun crossed the noon line and swung wly down the western sky—too fast, however, r the eager, untiring young ranchero, On and on he pressed and, finally, he entered little park-like valley on the opposite side of vhich, nestled close in uncer the brow of a reen-clad bluff, he beheld the longed-for goal, be cabin of Norway Nels. Five minutes later he dismounted in the door- ard of the hunter's home, CHAPTER V. THE ‘‘ RED RIVER ROGUES,” “THERE it comes, Dan—an old roachback! lug him abaft the ear and I'll hold in reserve ou fail to down the shaggy brute!” The speaker was Norway Nels, the Mountainer, nd his words were addressed to Dan Temple, 6 ranchero, Although scarcely out of his teens, Norway els was a splendid type of physical manhood, anding six feet in his moccasins, broad-shoul- pred, deep-chested, with great muscular limbs nd a large, finely-shaped head covered with rht-colored shaggy locks, he was a young ercules, indeed, is big, boyish face, bright hd intelligent, beamed with good-nature, is rge, blue eyessparkled with the light of a dash- gi fearless, free-born spirit. He was dressed ina lsuit of buckskin, and armed with a heavy narp’s rifle, a pair of big navy revolvers, and huge hunting knife, Norway Nels, as the sobriquet implied, was a prwegian by birth, but he had grown to man- od in America Where he had obtained a com- bn school education, so that no one could have id that be had ever spoken any other than the glish tongue. Having drifted into the game regions when fifteen years of age, he became infatuated bh the life of a hunter, and adopted that call- . After serving an apprenticeship, as it re, of two years under an old-timer, he finally luck out by himself, and the name of Norway iis, the Big Boy Hunter, became noted in the orn, the Wind River and the Laramie Hill ntry, not only on account of his skillasa hter, but for his great physical strength and omitable courage, By the side of the Scandinavian giant, Dan Temple was a mere boy. The two were great friends, and hence it was, that in his dire ex- rita Dan turned to the big hunter first of all, On reaching the mountaineer’s cabin, after his long, hard ride, the young ranchero had the good fortune to find Nels at home. He lost no time in making known the object of his visit, and his story was no sooner told than the young giant was up and ready for action; and, within half an hour after reaching the hunter’s home, the two departed for Big Horn Canyon wherein Nels thought it possible they might intercept Alfa’s captors. It was nearly dusk when they reached the canyon after a hard tramp over a ten-mile series of rough and rugged hills, and as the pangs of hunger were being felt, especially by Dan, the first thing that was offered as a means of food was a big bear that came walking down the canyou. ‘The two were concealed in a fringe of bushes at the base of the bluff and, as the bear approached them, Nels uttered the words with which this chapter opens. Dan was to take the first shot, and Nels the second if it was necessary. When the bear was nearly opposite them Temple drew back the hammer of bis rifle. Its click caught the acute ear of the animal, and, with a ‘‘ woof,” it stopped and sniffed the air, * Plug him, Dau’l!” whispered the hunter. Dan was in the act of sighting his rifle when a gun, a few rods to their right, rung out with a sharp report and the bear dropped dead in its tracks! Lowering his weapon Temple turned to Nor- way, @ look of deep surprise on his face. So close had the report of the rifle sounded that at first he thought Nels, growing impatient, had shot the bear. But he saw at a glance that the hr a giant was as much surprised as him- self, “Who fired that shot, Nels?” he quickly asked, ‘*By whaley! I don’t know,” responded Nels, “but it was a thievin’ shot whoever fired it! I hope the red-skins— Ah! harkee, pard!” Footsteps were beard approaching; then the tall form of a white man in hunter’s dress emerged from the bushes and advanced toward the dead grizzly. He was a man of at least fifty years, with a short, stubby gray beard—a total stranger to Big Nels, but unquestionably a enuine borderer and hunter. But ne longer esitating, Norway stepped from his conceal- ment and met the hunter face to face with the dead bear between them, It was the stranger’s turn now to be surprised, and it was renee. made apparent that it was most complete by lis stopping short and uttering the exclamation: ‘“‘Sword o’ Gideon! shades o’ Hercules! do mine ole optics deceive me? or do I, Polar Sol, Cold Wave o’ the North, behold a part o’ the mountain dissolve into a man?” ** Are you Polar Sol?” asked Norway, a smile flitting over his broad, handsome face, “Tm that identical ole walrus!” announced the hunter with a feigned sigh of relief, ‘‘and I'll bet a homestead within a mile o’ the North a that you're that Jumboian Infant, Norway els. ‘‘ That’s who I am,” replied Nels, ‘‘ and this is my pard, Dan Temple, whom you robbed o’ that bear. He war jist in the act o’ touchin’ trigger when you chipped in,” ‘“‘T am sorry, Daniel,” said the old hunter, “but I didn’t know there was a soul within miles o’ here ’cept my pard, Old Dismal.” “Then you’ve a companion?” observed Dan Temple, — ‘¢ Here!” came a piping voice from the bushes, and a second stranger appeared on the scene— a low, rather heavy-set man with a round, full face, a small hooked nose and large staring eyes that gave him an owlish expression, “This is him!” said Polar Sol, as the man camo up, rifle in hand, a serio-comical expression on his solemn face; ‘‘this is my pard, Dismal Dave, and I can vouch for him bein’ an Old Master when it comes to paintin’ things scarlet in a fight. He’s full o’ wisdom as an owl—not handsome, but miserable good company. We two are twins, cept that Dis, was born a cen- tury afore I war. For fifteen odd years we’ve hunted, and fit Ingins, messed and lied together till we’ve become one and inseperable as the union o’ States. For years we’ve been up in the River country, but a scarcity o’ game forced us to yank stakes and pull this wayward. Yes, gentlemen, we're Polar So) and Dismal Dave, the Red River Rogues, and our camp is around here in a rip in the mountains, and J UALL UC re you’re welcome to its best. The parlor ’ll be thrown open to your sway and, while I roll up a supper o’ bear steak that’d make a mummy’s mouth water, Old Dismal ’ll give you a solo or two o’ operatic music on his chin. Dismal’s an old master with his chin. What do you say, boys? will you lodge with the Red River Rogues?” ‘We'll be only too glad to,” answered Dan Temple, as the possibility of securing their as- sistance in rescuing Alfa occurred to him, So Polar Sol and Norway set to work to secure a portion of the bear for supper, Old Dis- mal and Dan looking on and discussing matters incident to their surroundings, While thus engaged, a loud, wolfish bark sud- denly burst upon their ears, It came from down the canyon, and was immediately follow- ed by a chorus of fierce yelps and houndish barks that seemed to emanate from the jaws of a hundred Cerberuses. Starting quickly, Norway Nels with one cee. of his big knife, slashed a large-sized chunk of meat from the bear’s baunch, then sheathing his knife snatched up the meat and and his rifle saying: ‘Come, men, or we'll be devoured alive} That’s a pack o’ them cussed Montana-Wyoming wild-dogs! They’re wuss than belted thunder— the most dangerous brutes that run tkese hills|’ CHAPTER VI. INTRUDERS IN THE ROGUES’ CAMP, DAN TEMPLE and the ‘‘ Red River Rogues,” as Polar Sol had called himself and companion, had often heard of the ferocious wild-dogs of the mountains, but had never seen one. Nels, however, had, and knew the brutes to be far more dangerons than the fierce timber wolves. Hunting in great packs theré was nothing they would not attack, from a man toa family of ferocious silver-tip bears, and so the oung hunter had no desire to meet them, but iuatenel away followed by Dan and the two old hunters, Up the side of the bluff he led the way until he reached a ledge, above which some six feet, was another jutting out. * Pards, let’s mount this shelf,” suggested the oung stalwart, ‘“‘and watch and defy the rutes. Here, Dan’l, let me boost you up.” He lifted Temple as though he were a child, and without difficulty the young ranchero gained a position on the ledge, Polar Sol and Old Dis- mal were helped in a similar manner; the guns were passed up and then Norway himself, aided by his friends, climbed upon the rock. This position had been gained none too soon, nor could it have been more favorable for a view of the defile before them. Drawn in the direction of the dead’bear by the scent of warm blood, the dogs swept up to the spot like an angry torrent. They struck the carcass at a run, and the foremost of the pack, which was full fifty strong, stopped so sudden that the whole pack was piled in a writhing heap over and around the roachback, For five min~ utes or more a desperate struggle ensued among the dogs, and when all had regained a fvoting, not the half of them could get near the bear, But, rendered frantic by the smell of blood those on the outside leaped upon the backs of others, and thus endeavored to reach the carcass by clambering over the closely impacted bodies of the shaggy mass. And thus, like a great cal- dron, the pack kept boiling up from the outside and sinking down in the center. “What do you think o’ that, friends?” asked Nels, turning to his companions, ‘It's the devil’s own stew-pot!” declared Polar ls ‘“ And it’s a wonder, Sol,” added Dismal, ‘‘ that they didn’t get round and pick our bones, I’ve long heard o’ the Montana wild-dogs, but never dreamed o’ strikin’ the ugly brutes In this kentry.” ‘“There has been a pack or two seen in this Territory, but not so far south as this before,” Nels explained. “Why not open on them?” asked Dan Tem- ple. “Tt would be a waste of powder and lead,” answered Norway, ‘‘ unless we have to go to shooting to save our bacon; but I think they'll leave when they devour that carcass,” And so they did; but it was more than two hours before the feast had been finished and the last of the dogs had departed. In the mean time, night had fallen, the darkness being deep and dense in the canycn. When assured of the dogs being beyond sound or scent, the four descended from their perch and started for the camp of the Rogues.
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‘N orway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer, ** Polar,” remarked Old Dismal, as they groped their way from the canyon into the defile in which their camp was located, ‘*it ’d be a splendid state o’ affairs to get back and find our camp outfit and pack-hosses ’d gone off inside o’ them frisky canines, wouldn’t it?” **In that case Nels ’d have a pair 0’ homeless orphans on his hands for a few days,” answered Sol, **You’re just the kind o’ orphans I’d like to share my roof with,” declared Nels. In the course of half an hour the hunters came in sight of their camp when Sol and Dismal stopped sbort, an exclamation of startling sur- prise escaping the lips of each, When they left camp there was no fire, but, to their profound astonishment, they not only saw a bright fire burning there now, but saw a number of forms moving busily about within its radius of light! ** Sword o’ Gideon!” exclaimed Polar Sol in an undertone, ‘‘ our claim’s been jumped—our camp infested!” ** Rattlin’ thunder!” snapp3d Old Dismal, **they’re a cheeky set o’—” **Red-skins! Injins, by the great ornegollus!” broke in Nels. “Norway, you’re right!” affirmed Sol, after vege we look at the moving forms about the re, “Dan, they are prob’ly Alfa Bond’s captors —the very vandals we are after,” exclaimed Norway. **Then you’re on an Injin hunt, eh?” asked Old Dismal. Dan Temple explained their situation—related the story of Alfa Bond’s capture, the death of her father, and his ride to the home of Norway Nels for help. ‘* Then, by the sword o’ Gideon!” exclaimed Old Polar, ‘‘ we have struck this country just in time. e, the Red River Rogues, are a Roman Legion—Old Masters on an Injin round- up. But, it’s been years since we’ve had a full campaign—even a skrimmage—with the smoked varmints, and we may be a little rusty, but it won't take long to git ona fine fightin’ luster. Oh! it’d do your soul good to see Old Dismal warp himself about in an Injin fight like a blacksnake in a bed o’ hot ashes. [I tell ye, Dis, is a Doric Dandy.” ‘‘And it strikes me,” added Dismal, who bad been watching the maneuvers of the red-skins, ‘*that the sooner we’re takin’ on that luster the more property we’ll have left, for the varmints mean to rob our camp.” The red-skins, seven in number, seemed quite busy in taking an inventory of the hunter's ef- fects, and, finally, when their pack-horses were led up, it was evident that the plunderers meant to carry every thing away with them they could lay hands on, The four whites were not over fifty paces from the camp, and, having hastily fixed upon a plan of action, they marched boldly into camp, Nels in the lead, and confronted the would-be thieves, ‘** Ho, here! yourusty-skinned gibbons!” shout- ed the big hunter, affecting a look of furious rage: “‘git out of this camp: you thievin’ imps, or we'll pulverize you! Git!” The red-skins were evidentl least, by the presence of Nels, intruders they were well aware, and that they were expecting the return of the owners of the property at any moment, was evident from their actions. But, while they were not count- ing upon the appearance of more than two whites, they put on a bold front, and a tall, slender fellow in the toggery of a chief bristled up with a show of fight, exclaiming, in reply to Norway: “Waugh! Me Kicking Horse—me no cow- ard! Kicking Horse bad Ingin on fight—no *fraid of bluster of big pale-face!” ‘* What you doin’ here meddlin’ with our trap, you mud-dyed varmints?” demanded Old Polar. ‘This is the hunting-grounds of the Ingins,” replied the chief, ‘‘ and all he finds here is his.” ** Well, you find me here,” Sol retorted, ‘‘ and if you want me} step for’d and take me; and here’s my ole, anchient chum, Dismal David; mebby he’s a long Jost brother, and you'd like to embrace him? And, red-hide, do you see that big, tew-headed son o’ Mars? Well; he’s Kickin’ Thunder, and if he lets hisself loose the wolves won't be able to find your pieces!” ‘*The old pale-face is full of wind like a blad- der!” was Kicking Horse’s rejoinder, ‘‘and the stick of a knife will make him sink down like a wet moccasin,” . While Kicking Horse was thus delivering him- self, a little, ferret-faced warrior leaped upon the back of one of the well-jaded pack-ponies as jf he meant to impress the whites with his inten- s surprised, at hat they were. t tion of riding it away; but, it was quite evident Thus suddenly checked tbat his ostensible object was to provoke an at- tack by the whites, and in this he succeeded in a manner unlooked for, Nels, standing within a few feet of him, made a spring, and, seizing the whiffet by the shoul- der, jerked him off the pony so violently that his heels fairly cracked in tbe air; then, as if he had been but a worthless bundle of rags, he swung him around and hurled him with terrific force squarely against the stomach of Kicking Horse, knocking that worthy flat upon his back, almost breathless, The Red River Rogues saw that now was their time and at once ‘sailed in.” Nor was Dan Temple idle, but, side by side with the **Old Masters,” took a hand in the knock-down, Before entering camp the whites had agreed to shed no blood unless it was necessary, and so the attack on the foe was made with fist and foot, and so skillfully were these weapons ap- plied by the athletic mountaineers that tho savages were knocked out at the first round, and, as fast as their legs would carry them, or circumstances permit, they broke for the friend- ly cover of darkness, the last to go being Kick- ing Horse who was assisted in his departure by a vigorous kick from the sturdy Norwegian. ‘Git thar, you mud-veneered thieves!” yelled the Big Hunter, as the blustering Kicking Horse went sailing into the darkness; ‘*depart, you unclean devils from the camp o’ the undefiled, and let the wild dogs eat yov and die!” “By the sword o’ Gideon!” exclaimed Old Sol, ‘that was short and sweet! Dismal, how it brings the color to your old sallow face and the luster to your big eyes! It seems like old times to have even a bloodless whirl with the red-skins, don’t it, Dis.? Another one or two and the Red River Rogues will be tharselves ag’in. And, Norway Nels, you’re the makin’ o’ an Old Master artist. You fling on the colors like a settin’ sun, and by the time you git your growth you'll be—” “Sol,” interrupted Old Dismal, ‘rest yer lips before them red-skins rally and swat us from cover o’ darkness. We've got to look out the rest of this night.” “Yes, for [have no doubt there are a num- ber of Ingins in this vicinity,” added Nels; ‘*but, men, I don’t mean to be cheated out of my supper o’ broiled bear-meat, but while it’s bein’ cooked a man ought to keep watch so. that we’re not surprised. As soon es our meat is cooked, the fire can be put out.” ‘Pll stand guard, Norway,” said Old Dismal; ** bring on your bear-meat!” Nels procured bis chunk of meat, and, having sliced it into strips, proceeded to broil it on the hot coals, This occupied but a short time and when Dismal came in the four hastened to par- take thereof witb keen relish, They had scarcely finished their repast when, suddenly, from the darkness beyond the radius of the camp-fire’s light, came the startling ery. ‘** Help! help! Oh, God! help me!” It was a wild, imploring ery—the cry of a woman—a cry that the very echoes repeated, as if possessed of the instincts of a human soul! CHAPTER VII. KAMAS KIT, THE OUTLAW. Tu four men started at sound of that implor- ingery. Mechanically their hands dropped to the revolvers in their belts. They had barely time to turn their eyes in the direction whence the sound came when there suddenly burst into the circle of light a slender, girlish figure upon whose fair face was the impress of terror, while back in the darkness could be heard the tramp of swift pursuing feet. ‘*Save me! save me!” burst from the girl’s lips, and not until she had thus spoken did Dan Temple recognize in the terrified fugitive the daughter of Doctor Dave, Alfa Bond! **My God! it’s Alfa Bond!” burst from the young ranchman’s lips, as he advanced toward the girl, who staggered into bis arms barely conscious in her excitement and fear of bis pres- ence, At the same moment, Nels and the Red River Rogues quickly advanced and placed themselves between the young people and the girl’s pursu- ers, who suddéuly burst from the sbadows like so many wolves on the trail ofafawn. And human wolves they were! There were eight of them—five white men and three savages. "The party was headed by a tall, bearded, brigandish- irk man armed to the teeth, and who, rushing into the light, was brought to bay by the drawn revolver of Nor- way Nels. the gang stood like bafif glaring with red eyes after ** Stop there!” commande: a tone of no uncertain mea flashing eyes on the Jeade do not attempt to raise a you—or it’]l be your déath-y ‘* Amen!” shouted Polar S ver, “Second the motion!” addeé a Dismal, fol- lowing his friend’s example, his round, fat face flushed with excitement. ‘“‘Do you mean to defy us?’ demanded the bearded villain, bristling up with an attempt to appear cool and defiant, his hand resting on the butt of a revolver. ‘We certainly mean to protect that gal!” re- sponded Nels. ‘* He is the outlaw, Kamas Kit!” cried Alfa, as she clung in terror to the arm the young ranchero, A knowledge of that fact, however, Norwa Nels already possessed. He had seen that red- handed villain before and knew him to be a desperado, And the presence of the Indians with him was sufficient evidence tbat they were in collusion with the outlaw, While the bunters were loth to precipitatea conflict, they were, nevertheless, fully aware of the dangers of delay. Thé odds were already against them, and these were liable to be in- creased at any moment by tbe discomfited Kicking Horse and bis followers. ‘¢- Yes!” exclaimed the outlaw in a tone calcula- ted to overawe the hunters, ‘* Il am Kamas Kit, and you know what that means!” “Yes, villainy! robbery! girl-stealing!” an- swered Norway, ‘‘and we warn you not to crowd on us!” ‘““Them’s the warble!” put in Polar Sol. “TI reckon you scoundrels hasn’t sized up the Red River Rogues; but if ye want to do so, jist kadrille this way!” ‘Blow and bluster I’ve heard before,” sneered Kamas Kit; ‘it don’t work with me. I de- mand tbat girl. She was placed in my care, and I mean to hold her in custody.” ‘‘Not much you don’t!” replied Norway; and then, aside to Dan Temple he said: ‘*‘ Dan, escort the gal back into the shadows where she wou't git burt if we git to shootin’.” But, low as he spoke, the outlaw overheard him when, in turn, he spoke in a whisper to one of his white allies who immediately turned and retraced his steps into the darkness, What this movement meant the hunters did not, at the time, understand. The outlaw could not have been sent for re-enforcements for, as Dan Temple with Alfa turned and started off up the defile, Kamas Kit advanced a step, grasping his revolver and exclaiming: ‘“Stop with that girl, or by the gods you'll wish you had!” CHAPTER VIIL A BLUNDER IN DARKNESS, THE instant Kamas Kit made a step forward the arm of Norway Nels was extended and his big revolver pointed at the breast of the outlaw like the finger of doom; and as quickly was his example followed by the Red River Rogues, Not another step did Kamas Kit take, On the contrary} he stopped and recoiled from those deadly tubes, a look of dismay on his wicked face, The villain, despite his superior force, still seemed loth to precipitate a conflict, and the hunters now began to mistrust that there was some scheme on foot to entrap them, As one thought after another was flashing through their minds, the crack of a revolver and a terrific scream burst upon their ears. — The shot and the cry came from the direction whence Dan and Alfa had gone, and they quick~ ly told the hunters what the outlaws were up to; the man that had dropped back into the dark- ness had stolen around the camp under cover of the shadows and intercepted Dan and the maiden, Determined to save the girl at all hazards the hunters, as if actuated by a single impulse, turned quickly and dashed away into the dark- ness up the defile. ‘Halt, there!” yelled Kamas, sending a shot after the receding hunters, as he and his crowd started in pursuit, The only attention, however, paid to his com- mand was by Nels, who fired two shots back- ward over his shoulder as he lunged into the shadows, one of the bullets striking Kamas Kit’s foot causing the villain to fall, howling and cursing with pain and rage, JNA.
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he outlaw put a momentary Yof the hunters, for his fol- had been fatally injured, but is oaths, the writhing villain the chase was continued. hunters ran on. It was in- ‘he defile, and as no furtber ek on Dan and Alfa could be © means of locating friend or However, they groped about a4 ‘ould with eye and ear on the lert. Suddenly Nels stumbled against a prostrate body from whose lips escaped a feeble moan. Stooping he fumbled over the body which he found to be that of a man, and as a terrible fear filled his mind, he exclaimed: Good Lord! Dan, is it you?” A feeble affirmative answer was received, The outlaws and savages were pressing close upon them, Acting upon the first impulse, Nels lifted his wounded friend in his strong arms and bore him rapidly away. He had not gone far when his foot came in contact with another prostrate form, almost stumbling over it, Polar Sol hastily examined it and, though it was still warm, pronounced life extinct. “The youngster: bulleted the smart outlaw, but where canthe gal be?’ the old hunter observed. As no one of course, could answer, the three burried on up the defile, Norway with his bur- den—the Red River Rogues following behind to cover his retreat, A retreat of safety was finally secured some distance up the defile where they could for a time, at least, defy the enemy. To their happy surprise, however, the foe relinquished the pur- suit long before they halted, At any rate, their random shooting and savage yelling had ceased, The wounded man was placed upon the ground in as comfortable position as was possible under the circumstances. He was unable to speak, nor could the hunter determine the location or extent of his injuries so intense was the dark- ness. Te situation was indeed a desperate one. To strikea light would be to invite sure death, and - yet without it they could do nothing for their wounded and, perhaps, dying friend, Alfa’s fate was unknown, but with the hope of finding her hiding away somewhere in the darkness, Old Polar and Dismal left Norway with his helpless _ companion and went off in search for her, The young hunter endeavored to draw from the wounded man some word as to his condition, but only an occasional feeble moan escaped his Mt was nearly an hour before the ‘ Rogues” returned from the fruitless search for Alfa. They had carefully explored the defile down to their late camp, and made up their minds that, unless she had passed on up the defile ahead of them, she had been recaptured by Kamas Kit’s minions. Of one thing they were dead sure, and that wasof the outlaws and red-skins having carried off all their camp equipage, In low tones the trio discussed the situation, and, while thus engaged, their attention was drawn to the wounded man, from whose lips escaped a sound that startled them. * Ah!” exclaimed Old Polar, ‘‘ that was his death-rattle! The boy’s done for!” ‘Poor Dan Temple!” sighed big Norway; ‘it’s too bad! too bad! But, somebody suffers for it, mind what I tell you!” ; Kneeling by the side of the prostrate form, the young hunter found his wrist, and laid bis fingers upon the pulse. But the pulse had yea to beat, The man was dead beyond a doubt, Tenderly Norway pig to straighten out the lifeless limbs, fold the arms across the breast, so that when daylight came they could give it burial. While he was thus engaged, an ex- clamation of surprise burst aloud from his lips, “Softly lad!” cautioned Polar Sol, ‘tor we might git a broadside fired into our jib-boom, What’s the matter?” “1m goin’ tostrikea match and get a glimpse of this dead man’s face, if it costs me my skulp!” responded the young giant. A And, producing a match, he struck it on a stone, and a tiny blue blaze pierced the gloom. Screening it in bis “* Gg tae ” hands until it was in full blaze, he let the light flash upon the face of tne dead. : A cry, half-surprise and half-joy, burst from - his lips, and dashing the light out he arose to his feet, ‘Belted thunder!” he snapped out in evident disgust, ‘‘ that’s not the body of my friend, Dan Temple, but of an outlaw that I lugged up here, Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer, and been mournin’ over in this purgatorian darkness!” ‘*Then that other body you stumbled against must ’a’ been your friend’s,” opined Old Dismal, gloomily, ‘‘T’'m afraid so,” responded Nels, sadly. ‘* He war dead, for sure,” added Sol, who had examined the body. ‘Well, it?s a howlin’ blunder on my part,” Norway said, regretfully. ‘* But it can’t be helped now,” ‘* It’s not to be wondered at, Norway,” Dismal] observed, ‘tin the hurry and darkness; and then the feller himself answered he war Dan, when you axed him the question. But, I reckon he war so nigh gone that he didn’t know what he war sayin’. ‘Thar’s one thing certain, how- somever, and that is that Dan got in bis work on the outlaw.” “But what has become of that poor girl?” ex- claimed Nels, **As we're foot-loose now,” suggestel Polar Sol, ‘‘s’pose we go make a search for the var- mints’ camp, and if we find it, and that the gal has been recaptured, do some Old Master paintin’? I want you to see the Red River Rogues, Norway, lay on the sunset tints in a fight. Even if the gal isn’t there, our hosses and camp-fixin’s are, and that’s enough for us.” The three hunters at once moved back down the defile, carefully searching for that second’ body Nels had stumbled against in their re- treat. But they reached the smoldering em- bers of the Rogues’ late camp-fire without find- ing it. Retracing their footsteps, they repeated the search with no better result. The body was gone, and its whereabouts was as much a mys- ee to the hunters as was the fate of Alfa ond, oo CHAPTER IX. RECONNOITERING THE ENEMY’S CAMP, From the defile Nels led the way down to the main canyon, and then northward up that great pass in search of the enemy’scamp, And not over two miles had they traveled when the lights of two or three fires pierced the gloom before them, That they were in the Indian- outlaw rendezvous they had no doubt, and so the next move was to reconnoiter the place and ascertain, if possible, if Alfa Bond was there a captive. hey soon discovered, however, that great risks must be incurred in getting close enough to obtain the desired information, The walls of the canyon were high and precipitous both be- low and above the camp, so that the place could only be approached from the north or south. These approaches the hunters knew would be well guarded, and as the canyon was narrow, it was not at all likely that they would succeed in their reconnoissance without having first silenced that guard. But, whether that could be accomplished with- out raising an alarm was a question that the nerve and skill of the hunters must determine; and, with that object in view, they moved for- ward, keeping close along the base of the west bluff, that was skirted by a few pine bushes, and along which was strewn great rocks that the hand of time had dropped from the cliff above, When about thirty rods from camp—at a point where the canyon began to suddenly widen —they discovered two men on guard, They could not see them, but could hear them as they paced to and fro across the canyon, passing each other near the center, One of them was an In- dian, and the other a white man. This fact the old hunters could tell by their footsteps—that of the Indian being light and almost noiseless, while that of the other béing heavier clad gave a louder sound, Toeither dispatck these fellows or pass them was the next thing to be done. A whispered consultation was held and it was decided to attempt to passtheline, Every contingency like- ly to arise was tully discussed and Biche of action in each instance agreed upon, Then the forward movement again was resumed. Never did shadows move more noiseless, had timed themselves so as to cross the line as the booted guard was approaching, satisfied that if he wasa white man, his sense of sight and hearing would not be as acute as the savages’, Norway Nels took the lead, his companions following close at his heels—all three crawling ia all-fours and carefully feeling every inch of the way before them. Norway was almost on the line when the guard passed him to theendof his beat and They | act, turned to retrace his steps. In fact, he was so close that the big hunter could touch him, but holding his breath until the sentinel had _ re- passed, he moved forward inside the dead-line, and soon the three were safe—beyond those guards, at least. Halting to congratulate themselves upon their success, they again cousulted as to the next step to be taken. Norway, who was familiar with every feature of the canyon, explained the situ- ation to his companions, “Now,” he said, ‘‘we can rumble ’rovnd here freely, East of that varmint-camp is a wide thicket of bushes extendin’ back to the bluff where there’s a nice spring of water. But I see from here the red-skins have got their horses bitched in there and our presence on that side might frighten the animals and lead us into trouble, Ov this side of the camp is, also, a fringe of bushes in which we can git within thirty paces of thecamp. There’s also a bear-den, or a kind of a cave, in the bluff there that we might find handy in case we war hard pressed.” “hen let’s keep on this side,” said Polar Ol. They moved on and finally gained a point opposite the camp and in front of the Bear-Cave spoken of, From the base of the towering cliff the ground sloped gradually downward to the bottom of the canyon, This slope was covered with a growth of pine sbrubbery three to five feet in height, but from their elevated position they could see over the’ thicket into the camp which was situated in the open valley. Two or three fires lighted up the camp enabling the scouts to see all that was going on and yet not be seen. They were somewhat surprised upon discover- ing no less then four-score persons in the camp, Two-thirds of these were Indians whom Norway Nels thought must be the thieving, cut-throat followers of a renegade chief called Gray Falcon, while the others were outlaws—follow- ers of Kamas Kit. A dozen rude lodges were pitched in a line north of, and fronting the fires, Beyond the camp in the bushes could be seen a number of horses, the radius of hgbt reaching out to the edge of the thicket, On the ground in front of one of the lodges and covered with a blanket, lay what looked like a man’s form. Nothing however could be seen of Alfa Bond. That bold, bad “ Injin,” Kicking Horse, was the most conspicuous figure in camp, and Nels’s fingers fairly tingleda to draw a bead on him, ‘0 complete the group of notorious marauders, Kamas Kit finally appeared on the scene, He came hobblirg from a tent with one foot bound up in a blanket, using a rifle for a crutch. ‘*Now if Old Gray’ Falcon would only show up,” said Nels, ‘*tbe scene would be complete, /and— Ah! look there, pards! do you see that?” “A gal—an Ingin princess, by the sword o? Gideon!” exclaimed Old Sol, thrusting bisthumb _ into Dismal Dave’s ribs. True enough, a young woman dressed in the showy, glittermg garb of an Indian princess emerged from one of the tents and, walking down to where that form lay covered with a blanket, stooped over and carefully drew the blanket aside. '* That’s Raven-Eyes, Old Gray Falcon’s daughter by an Ingin squaw,” Norway an- nounced, ‘ She’s a screamin’ pretty little tigress as ever broke a heart or clawed an eye out. Her word and wish is law, and there isn’t a buck in that camp but ’d scalp hisself if Raven-Eyes ’d command bim to,” ‘From here—at long range—she looks like a fairy,” Polar Sol observed. ‘* Steady, Polar!” cautioned Old Dismal; “ you know your failin’ bout wimmin, Her grand- mother would be a fairy in youreyes. Every thing that wears dresses is a fairy with you, Solomon—ah! thatisa man lyin’ there! He must bea sick Ingin.” \ As the girl drew down the blanket the scouts saw an arm reached out in a feeble, groping way. a Yes, sir,” declared Norway, ‘‘ Raven-Eyes has got a patient on her hands, and I should say he was a pretty sick man the way he seemed to They saw the maiden kneel by the sick man and adjust something about his head, then she arose and hurried away into a tent, returning shortly with a cup in ber band. | Again kneeling, she raised the sick man’s head and held the cup to his lips, nd after he had drank of the contents she assisted him to a sit- ph HRagh hen » ese proceedings seemed to have interested : the group about the fire, for Kicking Horse and
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~ © OC @ ee Bee | | lle! es ee = =e Se SS ow es = Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. two or three outlaws walked over and watched the girl and her patient.a few minutes, then re- turned to their companions, The hunters could see that the sick man’s head was bandaged, and, after gazing at him steadily for some moments, Norway Nels said: ‘* Pards, l’m goin’ to creep down to the edge o’ this thicket, so’s to git a closer look at that man and gal.” So saying, he dropped on all-fours and crawled away among the bushes down the slope. He was gone but a few minutes; then he returned in no little excitement, ‘* Belted thunder!” was his whispered excla- mation, ‘‘ that wounded man in the camp yon- der is the ranchero, Dan’l Temple!” — CHAPTER X. DAN TEMPLE IN A PREDICAMENT. TRUE enough, Dan Temple was not only alive but a prisoner in the Indian camp, It was his prostrate body against which Nor- way Nels had stumbled during bis flight up the defile with the supposed form of bis wounded friend. While endeavoring to conduct Alfa to a place of safety, the outlaw, passing around the camp, had pounced upon him in the gloom; but despite the disadvantage at which he was thus taken, he succeeded in shooting the assailant, but before the latter fell he dealt Dan a blow witha heavy club that felled him senseless, and in this condi- tion he lay when Polar Sol felt of his pulse and pronounced him dead. Thus the outlaws also found him, and, whether they could distinguish his body as that of friend or foe, or not, they carried it into camp. After receiving the blow in the defile, Dan knew notbing more until he came to his senses in the red-skincamp. The first thing of which he became conscious was of a strange, murmuring noise that sounded like human voices far away. The first thing he saw was a face bending over him-— a strange, yet comely face, but it was many minutes before he could dispel the confusion from his throbbing brain and collect his thoughts sufficiently to enable him to recall the past. When he had succeeded in doing this, he soon discovered the situation he was in—that the voices he heard were those of Indians and out- laws; that the face of the girl bending over him was not that of Alfa Bond, but of a stranger— in short that he was a prisoner! But where was Alfa Bond? Where his gal- lant friends, Norway Nels aud the fearless old Red River Rogues? As these thoughts flasbed through his mind he attempted to rise, With the assistance of tho strange girl he succeeded in getting to a sitting posture, ‘¢Thank you,” he said in a feeble voice, look- ing up into the dusky face of the young princess; ‘you are very kind.” ‘“* Would you like a drink of water?” the girl asked, seeing he spoke with a husky voice, “e v3 you please; I am very thirsty,” he re- sponded. Phe girl brought him a cup of water and held it to his lips, and again he thanked her kindly, ‘“You know where you are now, stranger?’ the maiden remarked, “T am in an Indian camp, I see,” Dan re- sponded, ‘but am I here through the kindness of the red-skins? or a prisoner?” ‘* You’re a prisoner,” the princess answered. ‘‘Who are you?” Dan asked looking up into the girl’s face, ‘ Raven-Eyes, the daughter of Gray Falcon. ‘‘Ts Alfa Bond here, Raven-Eyes?” “The daughter of Doctor Dave, the White Medicine of the Sioux?” “* Yes.” “She is not here, but Carlos will bring her soon, ‘“* Who is Carlos?” “The man who struck you senseless in the darkness,” It was evident from this that the outlaws and Indians were ignorant of the death of their friend whose body Norway had carried away, and that they were expecting him in at any mo- ment with Alfa. Presently Kicking Horse and two or three outlaws seeing Dan had recovered consciousness, walked down to where he and Raven-Kyes were, , “*Raven-Eyes,” said the war-chief, addressing the girl, “‘ has cooed the pale-face pri senses, She lingers long at his side forgetting her father, Gray Falcon, is sick in his lodge. Has the face of the captive stole Raven-Eyes’ a i rut ‘ rw ia “un Pte a cae a ee rt ' Fe SN aS soner to bis |. eee heart? Does she stand by him pouring words of love into his ear like oil into a jug?” ‘* Kicking Horse forgets he is but a war-chief, and is speaking to the daughter of Gray Falcon!” the girl replied reproachfully, ber dark eyes flashing with a scornful light. **Raven-Eyes is not a giant like the big, pale- face hunter who kicked Kicking Horse out of his camp to-night, but she can strike to kill!” Having thus expressed herself the princess turned and walked away to ber lodge, leaving Kicking Horse smarting under her lashings. ** Sbe’s a screamer,” remarked one of the out- laws to a comrade, ‘‘and’d put a knife ’twixt a feller’s ribs in a wink’s time if he crossed her.” Returning to the fire Kicking Horse sent a warrior to bind the captive. This was evident- ly done through spite for Raven-Eyes’ rebuke. The warrior bound Dan’s ankles most secure- ly. His hands he also tied togethar, but in front of him so he could lie down. Kamas Kit now came and called on the cap- tive and after addressing a few insulting re- marks to him, turnel away and walking across the camp entered one of the lodges, He was greeted there by a white man cf forty- five, whose faco was covered with a long bushy beard, and who was dressed in buckskin trow- “ere a brown pea-jacket and a slouched som- rero, ‘* My dear Gascoyne,” the outlaw said, as he entered the tent, ‘Sour mutual friend, Daniel Temple, is soming ’round like a June mornin’.” ** But that gir), Alfa Bond, isn’t coming ’round so rosy,” replied the man, Gascoyne, ‘* Don’t worry ’bout that gir],” Kamas advised, ‘** Carlos will bring ber in ip due time.” ‘* Well, then [ll go and take our guest to call on Gray Falcon,” Gascoyne said; ‘everything is in shape for the interview.” So saying this manleft the lodge and proceeded to another into which he disappeared, casting a furtive glance at Dan Temple as he did so. It happened that Dan’s eyes were upon the man at the time, and there was something so suspicious about the fellow’s actions that the young rancbman continued to watch the tent for the man’s reappearance, Nor had he long to watch, Gascoyne came out accompanied by a man whom Jan, at a glance, recognized as the guest of DoctorDave, Ira Bondurant! CHAPTER XI. ANEW CLAIMANT. DAN TEMPte’s first thought, upon seeing Bondurant, was that he too was a captive in the Indian camp; but he was led to change this view when he saw the man at perfect ease and liberty—under no surveillance or restraint. When Dan’s eyes met those of Bondurant, the latter stopped short and gazed in mani- fest surprise at the ranchero. It was quite evident that the man had ’been ignorant of Temple’s presence up to that moment and he seemed about to speak to Dan when Gas- coyne drew him aside into Gray Falcon’s Tedce. * Thus to the wounded man disappointment followed surprise, and he was left in painful meditation. The presence of Bondurant in that camp unharmed and, to all appearance, a guest instead of a prisoner, the death of Doctor Dave and destruction of his home, and the abduction of Alfa, formed a com- bination of facts in which the young man thought he could divine the work of the blackest of treachery. But, be this as it may, let us see how Bondurant came to be in the Indian camp. The night he spent in Doctor Dave’s cabin passed very pleasantly. He and the old her- mit sat and talked until midnight. They talked of Doctor Dave’s father and of people that the hermit had known in the town of Zanesville before he fled to the wild West, and of incidents that had transpired there while he was a resident of the place. Then Bondurant gave a detailed account of his adventures of the past year in his search among the minin Brit cattle-ranches and Indiaa tribes for ioral litchell’s heir. Finally they went to bed and slept soundly, arose early next morning and, having break- fasted, Alfa saddled up her pony and started . As toa lodge and all the favors of an honore eo Tid of. as a Tr es See ara oe on a ride to Brush Cree team and help to mov their mountain home p East with Bondurant. In the mean time, Bond horse Clinton Roper had and mounting, set off for the canyon, Enraptured picturesque scenery that ¥ folded to his view, he rod were greeted by the sound of aysprodch- ing from behind, a, Turning his horse he found himself con- fronted by a horseman dressed in the suit of aranchman. He was a man of some thirty years. His face was flushed with excite- ment and ‘his horse showed signs of hard riding. ““Good-morning, sir; are you Ira Bon- durant?’ the man exclaimed as Bondurant faced him. ‘*T am,” answered the startled executor; ‘‘ who are you? and what do you want?” “T am Joe Fisher,” answered the man, ‘‘and have come to warn you that the Ingins have killed Doctor Dave and burnt his cabin and that you'll meet a like fate if you return there.” ‘‘Great heavens! Mr. Fisher, this surel cannot be!” Bondurant cried, trembling wit excitement, ‘It’s a fact, sir,” the man declared, “ and it’s no more than’s been expected for some time—ever since the Ingins over which he exercises such an influence moved north'ard and left him settin’ there alone. Doctor Dave had scores 0’ enemies among other In- gin tribes ’cause he’d incited his tribe to bloody war ’gainst them. He war an ole fool stayin’ there with his pretty gal all alone. e might ’a’ known her face alone would ’a’ brought him trouble, and now it’s come. But I’m told your presence in his cabin hastened the end.” ‘‘Why my presence?” exclaimed Bon- durant, ‘That's all I can tell you, sir, for it’s all I know. There are others that will explain all to you, I persume.” ‘‘ Fisher,” said Bondurant in deep per- plexity, ‘‘ I cannot see through this story of yours.” ‘‘I persume not, sir,” replied Fisher, ‘‘and I don’t know but that Id be like you under like circumstances, But, to convince you. we can ride back down the canyon in sight of Doctor Dave’s home and see for yourself,”’ Bee Nothing less would satisfy Bondurant, and so the two rode off down the canyon. They soon came in sight of Doctor Dave’s burning i around which could be seen several In- ans, ‘‘Is seeing believing?” Fisher asked. “T am satisfied as to what I can see,” re- sponded Bondurant, ‘but I am still igno- rant of whom you are,” ‘Don’t let that trouble you one moment, Bondurant. You certainly know I am a friend, andif you'll go with me and wait further developments, you'll learn in time that you came very near being the victim of a foul conspiracy.’ Bondurant was thrown into such a state of confusion and perplexity that he finally found himself yielding implicit obedience to the will of Joe Fisher by riding away with him through the hills. All day they rod¢ along at a brisk gait, finally drawing up in the Indian camp about sunset. / i At first he thought, as they dismounted in the camp, that he had been decoyed inte danger, and this i was strengthened when, a few minutes later, Kamas Kit and his band came storming into camp in grea rage, / Phe Indians, however, received him ang¢ his escort kindly, The executor was escorte¢ guest shown bim. i ad was brought him and blankets furnished for a couch. be
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Norway Nels, t for after his long ride he 'n he laid down and gave éctions, and while he was Fisher came in with Syl- to whom he introduced .dental remarks, Gascoyne heen conducted here, Mr. see the chief, Gray Falcon. s\ sk and cannot call on you, I will call me course of an hour and con- duct you to iis lodge.” With this the two men departed, leaving Bondurant again with his own thoughts, which were anything but pleasant. What Gray Falcon could possibly want tu see him for, was beyond his comprehension, HWow- of matters, that his friend Fisher had prom- ised would come in due course of time. Finally, the man Gascoyne came in and announced that the chief was ready to re- ceive him, and the two at once proceeded toward Gray Falcon Lodge. On the way Bondurant met with another surprise 1n dis- covering Dan Temple in the vamp, wounded and a captive. He would have spoken to the young ranchero, but, having arrived at the door of Gray Falcon’s lodge, Gascoyne drew him into the tent, introduced him to the chief, then turned and left the lodge, closing the flap-door behind him. A blazing pine-knot lighted up the chief's lodge, whose walls and central pole were hung with clothing and emblems of savage royalty. On a couch at one side lay the chief. Ie was a white man of perhaps sixty years, with a thin, emaciated face, but eyes that shone with the luster of youth, When Bondurant reached down to shake hands with the chief, the latter extended his left hand, saying: *) give you that hand; heart, Mr. Bondurant.” “IT am sorry I find you on your back, Gray Falcon,” Bondurant responded. ‘ve not been well for some time,” the chief explained, ‘‘and yesterday I was taken . with paralysis of the right arm and leg.” - * Well, that’s not a very pleasant shape to be in, I assure you.” . ** Not for an Indian chief,” affirmed Gray - Falcon, ‘‘ but, under the circumstances, it is _agreat relief for me to sce you, for there is no telling what hour I may be called hence.” ‘‘T am surprised to hear this, Gray Fal- con,’ Bondurant said, ‘‘ but then this has been a day of surprises tome.” ‘1 presume so, but I think I can expiain everything,” the chief responded; ‘‘ though, if it had not been for this sudden attack of sickness, things might have worked differ- ently. As you see, I am a white man and an Indian chief. I have lived among the red-skins for nearly thirty years, and yet 1 have not been wholly ignorant of what has been going on in the land of civilization, and even in the Stateand townin which I was born and grew to manhood, and fairly edu- - cated for a more useful calling than a savage chieftain. And now you may be surprised again when I tell you that I know who Ira Bondurant is, and why heis in Wyoming. But it is true, and let me tell you, sir, that - you came within cne of being gloriously vic- timized,” ; *“By whom?” exclaimed Bondurant, “By that smooth-tongued and polished old rascal, Doctor Dave, who succeeded in making you believe that he was Powell ‘Mitchell, the son of the late venerable Israel _ Mitchell of Zanesville, Ohio,” . ° it’s nearest the “Do you mean to tell me Doctor Dave is } not Powell Mitchell?” Bonduraut asked. _ “JT mean to tell you he is an impostor!” declared the chief, his eyes flashing an em- | phasis that he could throw into his feeble voice, | a | *'Can you produce evidence of that fact, Gray Falcon?” - \s a he Big Boy Mountaineer. *“‘T certainly can, Mr. Bondurant, in my- self, for I am Powell Mitchell, the son and heir of Israel Mitchell [” CHAPTER XII. GRAY FALCON’S REVELATION. IrA BonpurANnT was thunderstriick by Gray Falcon’s declaration, and it instantly dawned upon his mind that there was, in- deed, a conspiracy somewhere of which he was the innocent too!—that his labors as exe- cutor of the estate of Israel Mitchell which, but a few hours before, he had considered practically settled, were suddenly rendered questionable. ‘*Gray Falcon, you astound me!” he ex- ever, he patiently awaited the explanation'| claimed, ‘‘ for Doctor Dave—David Bond— as good proved himself the son and heir of Israel] Mitchell!” ‘* Of course he did!” calmly responded the chief; ‘‘ that was what the old rascal planned to do, aided by an able confederate.” “ But, sir,” persisted the astonished exe- cutor, ‘‘ David Bond's resemblance to Israel Mitchell is very marked. ‘‘That may be, but it’s simply a coinci- dence,” Gray Falcon said, ‘‘and you'll ad- mit it when I have told my story—presented my proofs. Iecan explain how Old David entrapped you, and tell you exactly who Old David Bond is. ‘* Of course it is generally known in Zanes- ville, or a’ least was, that Powell Mitchell was jilted in a love affair, and, like another fool, pulled up and left the country. I came West and made my home with the Indians, adopted their mode of life, fought and hunt- ed with them, married a squaw, and finally, became chief of one of the Big Horn tribes of Sioux. But, what I have been doing here these thirty years is nothing in particu- lar to you, Do you remember, or did you ever hear that, a few nights after Powell Mitchell disappeared from Zanesville, there was an attempted bank robbery in town in which the night watch was killed?” ‘Oh, yes!’ replied Bondurant, ‘‘I was quite a boy at the time, but I remember it well. Suspicion rested on one Jack Noble, who was a bright, yet tough, young man. He was in town the day before the bank murder, but disappeared and has never been heard of since. And, by the way, there were some who intimated that young Mitchell had a hand in the attempted robbery simply because the father of the girl who jilted him was president of the bank; but no one who knew Powel! ever believed he’d any hand in it.” ‘No, he had not,” Gray Falcon resumed; ‘but, the fact is, Jack Noble fled to the Western wilds to escape arrest, and took up his abode with the Indians, also; and, in the course of time, he became a power in his tribe—the Great Medicine—in short, Doctor Dave.” ‘*Good heavens!’ exclaimed the asionished Bondurant, ‘ can this be possible?” ‘It’s true—every word of it,” declared the old chief; ‘‘ I’ve known for twenty years Doctor Dave was Jack Noble. So you can see yourself that he should knowa great deal about Zanesville of thirty years ago, and about my father. He and I had been young men together. He knew my personal history up to the day I left the town, and presum- ing upon my bein’ dead, has undertaken to impose himself upon you for the sought for heir, knowing that neither you nor any one living in Zanesville would be likely to detect the deception. ‘** Within the past twenty years I have met Noble—Doctor Dave—a score of times, but he never recognized me for | was always in disguise.‘ I did not want him to knew me, for fear my whereabouts would become known at home. Since I’d made a fool of ‘myself, and was married to an Ingin woman, I resolved to continue a fool. “And now, as to Jack Noble’s conspiracy: six months ago a Denver newspaper drifted into my camp tbrough a fur-trader. In readin’ it over I came upon an advertisement sayin’, in substance, that if Powell Mitchell, who left Zanesville thirty years ago was livin’, and should see that advertisement, and communicate with Ira Bondurant, executor of the estate of Israel Mitchell, he’d hear of somethin’ to his interest. ‘*T knew at once what it meant, but I was down with a broken leg, so I concluded to dispatch a friend, or one whom I considered a friend, Seth Craver, to Ohio to learn just what, was wanted of me without makin’ hisself known to you or any one. In this he succeeded, for Seth is as sharp as he is ras- cally; and when he reported to me that a quarter of a million awaited the comin’ of Powell Mitchell, I lay flat on my back, speechless and helpless with this condemned paralysis. Of course, I could do nothin’ nor say nothin’, and it looked as though my days were numbered. Seth Craver, it seems, thought so, too, and when, two months later, I recovered my health sufficiently to be able to speak, I found Seth was gone. As he did not show up I began to mistrust foul play, and sol called in another friend—the man who brought you into. this lodge—Syl Gascoyne, as good a detective as ever run a villain down. ** Well, Syl wasn’t out a month till he struck Seth’s trail; and, sure enough, as I’d mistrusted, found he was playin’ me false, And the scamp had a good chance for it, too, for, come to find out, Jack Noble had once been a friend of his, and knew that Jack had lived in Zanesville and all the circumstances of his leavin’ there. As I'd given the raseal my family history, he’d sought out Doctor Dave and the two entered into a conspiracy to get my legacy, believin’ that 1 was on my death-bed, or at least, a speechless para- lytic. . ; 7 Doetot Dave entered into the scheme with a will. How Gascoyne shadowed Craver and got out all his schemes ’d take till mornin’ to tell. Gascoyne can tell you that at another time. But, it was through the cunnin’ work of Craver that you were finally led to the cabin of Doctor Dave yes- terday. I could have nipped the game in the bud a month ago, but, as we had the ras- cals under close watch, we concluded to let them go ahead and pounce upon them in the hour of their supposed victory, catch them all together and make them own up in your presence to their dirty work. ‘*lt was with this intention that I came with a few of my warriors down into these hills; but, day before yesterday, I bad an- other stroke of paralysis that laid me up and we went into camp here, But, faithful Gascoyne was on hand yesterday when you landed with the ranchmen at Doctor Dave’s cabin, and when he reported to me, that re. port was that Doctor Dave’s claim was all- sufficient.” : ‘But, my friend,” said Bondurant, ‘‘I have never, in all my search for Powell Mitchell, known such a man as this Seth Craver, you speak of giving me pointers.” ‘*Of course not,” the chief replied, ‘* he’s too shrewd to let his hand be seen Gurin’ the game. However, as I could not go on, I dispatched Kicking Horse and a party of warriors to bring Doctor Dave and _ his daughter and yourself to my camp, while Kamas Kit and his men were to bring in Seth Craver who, for the past week or two, has been working as a cowboy on the Cross- Bar Ranch, Kit brought in hig man who is now a prisoner near, but with the exception of yourself, Kicking Horse's trip was a fail- ure. On arriving at Doctor Dave’s cabin, his daughter had gone away, you were out ridin’, and Doctor Dave alone was at home.” | ‘‘And him your warriors killed,” Bondur- ant said. “The old fool, on being told he must go
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ee ee ee ee eis A Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer, with my warriors, flew into a passion and | killed two of my braves which resulted in his own death. His death I regret on account of his daughter, a very pretty girl, I am told. But, this is just how the matter stands, | Mr. Bondurant.” } ‘Well, Gray Falcon,” Bondurant said in | perplexity, “this beats any thing 1 ever heard of. Doctor Dave in admitting he was | Powell Mitchell told a very plain, straight- | forward story of his past life. He even de- | clared, at first, he would not touch the in- _ heritance, and it was not until we had talked _ late into the night that he finally concluded | that he would.” ‘*That was all done for effect, Mr. Bon- | durant,” Gray Falcon observed; ‘‘{ might | say the same and mean it, for, in fact, the | money will do me no good. My days are / about numbered. I feel that I cannot long survive this attack of sickness. But I have ' adaughter to whom the money might come ' well. True, there's Ingin blood in her veins, but she is young and pretty. I would like to have her placed in some good school and educated, and I would be willing that Doc- tor Dave’s daughter, now that she is father- less, be kindly cared for and educated, also.” ‘*You say you have Craver a prisoner?” Bondurant observed, after several moments’ silence. ‘*Yes, and he’s already confessed to me his whole base treachery,” answered the chief. “JT should like to talk with him,” Bon- durant said.. *‘Of course, I do not dispute your claim, but, as you must know, your revelation has put a different phase upon | the question, and breaks me all up. I want to be fair in the matter, and, if you are _ the heir, you’ll get the money, and a big _ pile of it. I should like, also, to have a _ talk with your detective, Syl Gascoyne.” “All right, Mr. Bondurant; I will ar- ' range it so that you can have a talk with | both of them in the morning. I shall claim _ your company now until you wish to retire, which may not be long,.for I presume you are tired after your ride of to-day.” ‘Another question I would like to ask you, Gray Falcon: why is that young ranch- man, Dan Temple, here a prisover?” **T was goin’ to tell you ’bout him awhile ago, but it slipped my mind,” the chief an- swered. ‘‘ Kamas Kit and his men were es- | cortin’ Doctor Dave's daughter to this camp, ‘When some two miles below here she leaped | from her saddle and endeavored to escape 1n the dark, She turned into a defile and fi- | nally sought refuge in the camp of four white men, one of whom was the young | rancher. Kamas’s men pursued the girl and when they reached that camp the four men ) refused to let her go, and so they got into a fuss. The ranchman was knocked senseless ) and the others ran off. Temple was brought here to have his wounds dressed. He is not exactly a prisoner, but will be kept here till mornin’, at any rate,” ; ‘* And Miss Bond, where is she?” ** She has not been found, but men are out searching for her. They will find her,” ‘It seems to me I have heard Kamas Kit spoken of as an outlaw, Gray Falcon. How is that?” ‘He is so called, I will confess,” the chief frankly admitted, ‘‘but you need have no fears on that score. You are my guest and ‘no harm will befall you. In fact, it is all important to me that your life be carefully _, guarded, for I hav’n’t a single doubt of my -\being able to fully satisfy you of my being _ |Powell Mitchell, despite the fact of Doctor “Dave havin’ led a big trump.” .. Bondurant remained an hour or so longer ith the chief who plied him with a hundred P.! sestions regarding people he had known . « Zanesville thirty years previous. In fact, | ‘tue chief went over about the same grounds that Doctor Dave had the night before. a i a ee is The result was that when the executor re- | direction in which it bounces off.” turned to his own lodge, his brain was in a mad, wild whirl. He was forced to admit to himself that Gray Falcon had presented fully as good, if not a better claim to the in- heritance than Doctor Dave, so far as dates, reminiscences of his early life and events were concerned. But, the resemblance of Doctor Dave to the late Israel Mitchell was a sticking point with him that he could not clearly and satisfactorily get around. In fact, it was a point upon which the executor concluded to rest the matter until morning, and taking off his coat he threw himself on his couch and endeavored to forget every- thing in slumber. But, sleep he found was impossible, The faces of the rival claimants he could not drive from his mental vision, and it was a relief to his aching brain when a burst of wild excitement outside among the Indians suddenly drew his mind off those faces. Rising he peered out through an opening in the tent, and was startled with an inward shudder of horror at the sight he beheld. CHAPTER XIII. NORWAY HAS SOME FUN. Tne discovety of Dan Temple being alive filled Norway’s breast with great joy, and to secure his release from the power of his enemies was the subject the three hunters next had under coasideration. Presently another surprise met their gaze. It was the presence of Ira Bondurant in the camp to all appearance a guest instead of a prisoner! Norway recognized him by the description Dan had given him of the man at the time he recounted the bloody work of the savages at the cabin of Doctor Dave. That story, Nels now repeated to the Red River Rogues, when Polar Sol remarked: ‘Surely that man, Bondurance, can’t be a traitor to the ole hermit,” ‘it begins to look suspicious,” Norway averred, with a shake of his shaggy head, ‘*and if I was sure Alfa Bond wasn't in that devil’s nest, I'd be for doin’ somethin’ des- perate, I must do somethin’ for Dan’l before I leave here!” ‘Jf them hyenas ’d go to bed,” growled Old Dismal ‘‘we could make one 0’ our fancy Roman sneaks on them and whisk the young rancher out 0’ that.” — ‘*But they don't seem a bit sleepy,” re- plied Sol; ‘‘they are like owls and bats, and act jist as if they war oneasy ‘bout somethin’, or ’spectin’ somethin’ to turn up.” ‘Expecting their friend with the gal, Alfa,” suggested Norway with grim humor. ‘‘That’s ‘bout the shape o’ it. If they hav’n’t found the carcass you so tenderly toted off up the defile, they prob’ly think he's out yit with the gal.” As time passed on the Indians and out- laws maintained their wakefulness—stand- ing, sitting and walking about the camp, keeping up their fires as though they intend- ed to put in the night that way. The girl, Raven-Eyes, was seen to make frequent trips to where Temple lay bound, and finally these visits called out the obser- vation from Old Dismal: ‘That gal’s struck on the handsome young rancher, sure as death.” ‘‘T hope so, for the boy’s sake,” added Norway; ‘‘he'll not be neglected while he’s there. But, pards, this is gittin’ terrible monotonous standin’ ’round here, and I’m goin’ to amuse them purgatorians a little jist for the fun o’ the thing.”’ . As he spoke he felt around on the ground forarock about one-third the size of his fist which he informed the ‘ Rogues ” he meant to hurl across the canyon among the enemies’ horses, ‘‘ Boy, that’s a cannon’s throw!” declared Polar Sol; ‘‘and if the dornick falls in the |, openin’, it’ll be sure to give us away by the 7 outlaw came reeling into the light with '“ Throwin’ stones is one 0’ ments,” Norway replied, ‘‘and land this stone far beyond thé I’}l try it anyhow.” Lopping off a few boughs among which they stood, to gi clear swing, the young Ajax sen flying through the ait over th camp. And whether it hit a horse or‘no commotion enough among them to or three Indians into the bushes to investigation. “Boy, you’re an old Jovian catapult,” complimented Polar Sol. ‘‘That war an Old Master throw.” Nels made no reply, but finding another stone of the proper size, he sent it after the other just as the three red-skins emerged from the thicket into the light of the camp- fire. The result was a general excitement among the horses. One of them, evidently hit by the stone, broke loose and went crash- ing away among the pines, almost creating a panic. Two-thirds of tke red skins and outlaws, grasping their weapons, rushed into the bushes under the impression that enemies were endeavoring to run off cheir animals. The Red River Rogues chucked each other in the ribs, and all but broke into an outburst of laughter, while Norway Nels stood watching the foe, his great frame shaking with suppressed mirth. ~ ‘* That’s fun-royal, Roman fun!” declared Sol in a whisper, ‘‘and, oh, land o’ the mid- night! how I'd like to see a fair-sized dor- nick slap Kickin’ Hoss in the stomache! Wouldn’t it make him curl magnificently? Wouldn’t his head and heels clap together immediately sudden?” *‘V’d hand him one,” said Norway, “if I wer’n’t afraid the sharks would git onto our location by the way the stone’d strike. If I could drop it straight down from the clouds on his head, they couldn’t tell the direction it came from ’cept from above. Another one in the bushes, though, won't do us no harm, and "Il keep the mud-skins stirrin’.” ) So saying, he threw another stone over | camp into the thicket, and it was instantly heard from in the way of a wild, unearthly shriek of pain that fairly pierced the heavens, ‘Salvation, oh! you belted a muddy that time, boy!” exclaimed Dismal. ‘*‘ Just hear the hornits buzz! and see Kamas Kit bob around on that lame foot,!” The red-skin’s yell had created the wildest. excitement in camp, and in dire suspense those around the fire awaited an explana- tion. ; Presently two outlaws emerged from the thicket carrying an Indian from whose lips were issuing low moans of agony. As the men .approached the light, ail saw that one side of the red-skin’s face was terribly lacerated, and that blood was not only streaming from the horrible wound, but from the fellow’s nose and cars as well. . ‘‘ What has done this?” exclaimed Kamas Kit, as the men laid the howling warrior on the erowng before the fire. wi ‘*} guess a hoss kicked him,” answered | one of the outlaws. . The injured warrior being in a dazed con- dition could give no account of his injuries, but kept up a moaning wail of agony that Nels and the Rogues could distinctly hear. — Kamas examined the wound and de- clared: ihe gM Ras, “That don’t look much like a horse's” track. The skin is tore downward and looks as if it’d been done with the poll of a hatchet or some bers Oia weapon—there! by Judas Iscariot! goes another yelp! What in the thunder’s the matter out in that thicket?” SN easel tae nother cry of pain, true enough, had emanated from the bushes, and presently an et phe at Whe WSN . a ml | poy ro ee
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wngling at his side, his face con- agony. 5 the matter with you?” thundered chief; ‘“‘ kicked by a hoss, too?” somethin’ and my arm broke! groaned the unlucky freebooter, olling in frenzy, and the perspira- ng in great drops from his face. what does it mean, anyhow, Cap?” ed an outlaw of bis chief. tain,” spoke in Syl Gascoyne, who had seen attracted from his tent by the red- skin’s moans, ‘‘there’s something wrong out there in that thicket. Surely these folks can’t be belting each other in the dark, this way.” The greatest excitement now prevailed in camp. Orders were given for a thorough search of the thicket, and soon a dozen flam- ing torches were moving through the bushes accompanied by, at least, half the entire camp. Norway and his companions enjoyed the sight in great glee, since it never seemed to occur to the Indians and their allies to search the west side of the canyon where the author of their trouble was secreted. Kamas Kit and Syl Gascoyne, in the mean time, were employed in binding up the wounds of the Indian and outlaw, ably as- sisted by Raven-Eyes. Norway Nels had let up on his bombard- ment of the thicket while this last search was in progress; but the absence of most of the foe from camp, and presence of Dan ‘Temple still in plain view, suggested the thought, which found expression in these words: * Pards, now would be a glorious time for us to dash in and rescue the rancher,” ‘*And knock over Kickin’ Hoss and swat Kamas Kit at the same time,” added Polar ol. “‘ If the boy’s able to walk,” remarked Dis- mal, ‘‘ we could easily run him out by mak- in’ a Roman rush. The only danger’d be in Old Sol. He’s sich a walrustian ole fool *bout weemin, that if that gal yander’d speak one word to him, he’d fall at her feet.” ‘«T'll confess, Dis, that I’ve a weakness for retty gals, mountain scenery and Ingin- Fohtin’ but if that gal wants me she can come and get me, and I'll throw you in to boot. You'd make a splendid pet for an In- gin gal, Dis.” e Before the hunters had decided upon any plan of action for Temple’s rescue, the golden opportunity for a successful strike had passed. The Indians and outlaws began to return from their fruitless search. The horses had aii been quieted down, and ina short time an unusual stillness reigned over the camp. ‘‘Now, pards,” said Nels, ‘‘we’ve let one. opportunity to rescue Dan’'l pass, but I’m goin’ to create another—i’m goin’ to shell that timber again, and if another as good chance offers, I’m goin’ to make a dash for the ranchman.” “The Red River Rogues ’ll be found right at your side, my boy, ready for anything,” assured Dismal Dave. The possibilities of Dan’s rescue, and their escape from the canyon with him, were dis- cussed pro and con. All knew it would be a hazardous undertaking, with but one chance in ten of success, and yet they finally decided to risk that one. Norway finally began “shelling” the ene- mies’ horse-corral—throwing one stone after another in rapid succession over the camp into the thicket. As the missiles rained down from the darkness among the horses, the animals became more frightened than ever, several breaking loose and dashing madly away. Again the Indians uttered a cry of alarm and with their white friends, or most of them, charged into the thicket, certain now of meeting the sku!king foe that had repeat- | edly tried to stampede their animals, With the exception of Kamas Kit, the | 2 \ ar es , itl ice ‘ e ah at yf st pt ‘ " es \ r '* Po ETE tS it | ere Pr us a ay apg ane “) y oe < ee Oey be eran ve ee tu ae Us vos 7 Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mount man with the broken arm, and the wounded red-skin, the camp was now deserted, The wildest confusion broke forth in the thicket. The snorting, lunging horses, the yells of the Indians, the shouts and curses of the outlaws endeavoring to quiet the horses, an occasional cry of pain induced by plung- ing hoofs, were commingled in one wild and frantic racket. Ira Bondurant, for the fourth time that night, started from his couch to learn the cause of the frightful noise. Old Gray Fal- con dragged himself to the door of his lodge and thrust his haggard face out into the light, while his daughter, Raven-Eyes, trembling in terror, shied off toward Dan Temple who had, also, become somewhat interested in what was going on in the thicket and rose to a sitting posture. Kamas Kit stood, revolver in hand, ready for the worst, his eyes flashing and _ his face wearing the expression of a hunted beast. ‘*Raven-Eyes, what does that noise mean?” Dan Temple asked, as the maiden came up to him. ‘*T do not know,” she answered, in evident alarm; ‘‘ but I fear the friends of—” She did not finish the sentence, for at that instant she found herself face to face with a Titan form that seemed to have been silent- ly conjured up out of the earth, It was Norway Nels, the big Scandinavian hunter that stood before her. CHAPTER XIV. A LIVELY RUSTLE. UNOBSERVED by any one had the Nor- wegian Hercules glided from the shadows on the west side of the canyon to the side of his young friend, Dan Temple. Raven-Eyes, upon discovering him, was so startled with superstious fear that, for a moment or two, her lips were sealed and her tongue paralyzed, Temple glanced up and seeing his big friend exclaimed: : ‘“My-God! Norway, what do you mean?” ‘“To release you!” was the hunter's re- sponse, and, stooping, he cut the young ranchman’s bond, This broke the spell that had silenced Raven-Eyes’ voice, and she quickly gave ut- terance to a scream that would have dis- mayed a young panther. Itreached the ears of Kamas Kit despite the noise in which he was deeply engrossed beyond him. He turn- ed and, seeing what was up, gave a frantic yell and began firing his revolver in the air to give the alarm—not daring to fire at Nor- way for Raven-Eyes stood screaming between him and the big hunter, To add to this new excitement Gray Fal- con poked his head out of his lodge and set up a yelling that was sufficient evidence of Raven-Eyes having inherited her lung-power from the paternal side of her family. The Indians and outlaws hearing the yell- ing and firing in camp, came pouring from the thickets like wolves, It required no words to acquaint them with the situation, and with demoniac yells they dashed on through the camp after the fugitives. Having severed the young ranchero’s bonds, Norway assisted him to his feet, say- ing: j ; ‘«Come, Dan’l, put in your best licks!” Dan staggered and would have fallen had his friend not supported him. His limbs. were numb from long-impeded circulation caused by the tightness of his bonds; but Norway perceiving this, placed his arm around his waist, and thus, half-carrying him, hurried him across the opening. They had almost reached the cover of the bushes where the Red River Rogues were watching and waiting, when they were suddenly met by a difficulty not expected: Raven-Eyes, secing they were likely to escape, flew after them like a young tigress, and, comin up behind Dan, threw her arms about his aineer, neck, and with a frantic hug caused the ran- chero to reel backward and fall, a cry of pain escaping his lips as he went down. Nels again assisted him to rise, but again he fell with a cry. “‘Norway, my ankle’s dislocated!” Dan averred; ‘‘ leave me and save yourself!” ‘“Never!” declared Nels, turning to meet asavage, who, being swift of foot, was some distance in advance of his friends, and close upon the fugitives, With uplifted tomahawk the redskin rushed madly on and aimed a blow at Nels’s head; but the young giant dodged the wea- pon, and then lunged forward and gave the warrior a drive on the neck with his fist that lifted him off his feet and dropped him ten feet away. In the mean time Polar Sol, seeing how things were going, slipped out of the bushes to his friend's assistance. Seizing the spirited little princess, Raven-Eyes, he dragged her away from Dan, and then for awhile it seemed, from the way she lit into the old Red River Rogues, that some one would have to rescue him. Having disposed of the red-skin, Nels | lifted Dan to his one foot and ran with him) into the bushes. By this time other savages were coming} close, and, in hopes of checking their ad- vance, Old Dismal opened upon them with his revolver from the shadows where he had” been posted, ; Polar Sol expected a volley from the foe in return, and his quick brain’instantly con- ceived an expedient that might prevent it. Seizing Raven-Hyes in his arms, he bore her away, after Norway and Temple, into the bushes; but, if the fear of kiliing their young princess forbade the: savages firing upon the foe, her capture incited them to renewed ex: ertions in the pursuit. The moment, however, that Sol reached the cover of the bushes, he placed the little tigress on her feet and released her. In- stantly her cries of anger ceased; but, in- stead of endeavoring to escape, she not only \ stood her ground, but astonished the fugi+ tives by saying: | “Go, pale-faces! Hurry! they will kill yowall!” ! All heard this urgent request, but, there was no time to inquire into the cause of the. girl’s sudden change of heart. The pursu-— ing horde were close upon them, and the three hunters turned, and with their revol- vers poured volley after volley into the very faces of the foe, the Red River Rogues in | the mean time giving utterance to vociferous yells of bloody defiance. The hunters had a decided advantage in} that they could see the foe between them and the light of the camp-fires, and were) thus enabled to make their shots count, while the savages still refrained from firing, no doubt, through fear of killing Rayen-) Eyes. The result was that the advance of the foremost of the red-skins was checked, | but by this time the whole camp was swarm- ing across the canyon and spreading out to cut off retreat up or down the canyon. i To contend longer with this overwhelming force would be certain death, and, as Temple could not walk unaided, Norway saw ii escape from the canyon then would be im: possible, and that refuge in the bear cavé would be their only salvation. ; «Come, pards!”. he exclaimed, as the fod staggered back before their deadly revolvers, ‘‘Jet’s make for the cave!” The four hurried away through the dens gloom of the thicket, Raven-Eyes being left to go her way. ar p the wooded slope they sped, Norwaz carrying Dan in his arms as though he we eee ee —————— if a child. gee c They soon reached the entrance to .’ bear-den and placing Dan on the ground, big hunter said: ‘ “« Slide in there, Dan’l!” \
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Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. The entrance to the cave was low and narrow, and upon all-fours the fugitives had to crawl in, Dan going first and Norway bringing up the rear. About six feet from the entrance the hole widened and deepened until it assumed the proportions of a small cavern, and behind an angie, where they would be out of reach of an exploring shot from the entrance, Nels placed his friends, then, with a breath of re- lief he seated himself, saying: “There, now; they may have us bottled up, but I can defy the hosts of Satan to enter this hole and take us out, dead or alive!” ‘‘We had a lively time o’ it gittin’ here,” remarked Dismal, ‘‘and ’ll have as lively gettin’ out.” ue dee ‘‘By the way, Dan’l,” Nels inquired, ‘‘is your ankle dislocated or sprained?” ‘‘Discolated, Nels,” Dan answered in evi- dent pain. ‘‘it’s turned over on the side and paining me terribly.” ‘Then it must be attended to,” said Old Dave, and he proceeded to examine the young ranchman’s injared limb, He could only do so by feeling, for it was dark as Egypt in the cave. : ‘As Dan had said, he found his foot turned on the side, and the first thing to be done was to remove the boot. Dan_ suggested that he cut it off, but Dismal deliberately seized it by the heel and toe and began pull- ing, with the result that tbe ankle bone slipped into its socket with a snap and the work was done. ; : “There you are!” exclaimed Dismal, as though pulling people’s joints together was a common, every-day affair with him. “Thank you!” breathing short, for the pain of the operation, brief as it was, had been most excruciating. Meanwhile, Nels was sae watching the mouth of the cave.’ The yelling of the foe had subsided, but well the hunters knew the search was going on. Several times feet had been heard hurrying past the cave, and it would only be a question of time until their retreat would be found. “Friends,” young Temple finally ob- served, ‘‘if you folks can get out of danger without me, don’t hesitate a moment in doing so. You have already risked—” “Stop that, boy!” interrupted Dismal; “we're here to stay right by you. The Red River Rogues loves just such entertainments as we've had to-night. Norway, here, we find, isa young walrus among ngins and outlaws, and’s furnished entertainment for friends and foes all this evenin’» Thea, be- sides, Polar Sol got to hug that Ingin gal and it’ll do him more good than an elixir. He'll think bout it, and dream "bout it for a year to come, Polar always war easily ef- fected that way. No, boy, don’t trouble yourselves bout us. We war never in sich a tight place but we managed to squeeze out, even if we had to starve ourselves as thin as Old Sol's jokes.” “Tf that consarned little heifer o’ a gal hadn’t interfered, we'd got along all right,” Norway declared. ‘“Yes,” Dan added, ‘‘it was when she seized me and jerked me back that my foot was wrenched and my ankle gave way.” “Tam sorry 1 caused you pain!? | It was a low, gentle, feminine voice that uttered this expression of regret. “Belted thunder!” burst from Norway’s lips, ‘‘there’s some one besides us four in this cave! Polar, watch that entrance, and, Dismal, you hold a pop ready! I’m goin’ to light up!” a Taking a match from his pocket, Nels _ struck it, and shading it in his hands until it was in full blaze, held it above his head. ! To the utmost astonishment of the four “ wer, the light, as it illumined the gloom of the cave, revealed the lithe form_and pretty, dusky face of the Princess Raven-Eyes, standing unmoved before them! CHAPTER XV. THE TIGRESS SHOWS HER TEETH. DAN TEMPLE was even more surprised than his friends on discovering Raven-Eyes in the cave. How she had gained admission there, and had maintained so profound a silence up to the moment she spoke, was a mystery profound to all of them. ‘“Raven-Eyes, is it possible that yow are here?” Dan exclaimed, as the gloom succeed- ed the flash of light. ‘**T thought the pale-face knew I was here,” the girlanswered. ‘’Icamein here before any of you.” “Then you knew this hole was here *‘T did, and heard the big pale-face say you would come here,” she answered. “Then the Indians know of the cave, also?” ‘Some of them do. They will find you here. You are in great danger.” ‘But, Raven-Kyes, why did you come in here?” “Did Raven-Eyes not promise to be a friend to the young pale face?” was her re- 9” ‘ ply. ‘‘Did I not promise to keep him from harm? Am I not the daughter of Gray Fal- con dd ‘*Yes, you promised me all that, Raven- Eyes, and but for your kindness [ should have died of thirst in your camp. Iam un- der éternal obligations to you for that kind- ness, and hope to retain your friendship forever. But now that I am no longera prisoner, my friends can help me, and as you will nut want to remain in here, I will relieve you, for I know you can return to camp and do more for us through your influence there than you can here. But before you go, Raven-Eyes, can you tell me why Gray Fal- con is here with his warriors when his village is three suns’ travel toward the north?” ‘“‘T know not,” she answered. ‘* Did Kamas Kit and his men come with ou?” ‘*No; they came to our camp to-night.” “Do you know what became of Alfa, the daughter of Doctor Dave?” ‘She escaped from them when in sight of our campfire,” the girl responded. ‘* Alfa is cunning as a she-fox and swift as a deer, They have not found her yet, but they will. Strange things have happened to-night. Enemies lurk in the darkness and frighten our horses and strike down our warriors, yet they cannot be found.” ‘**Raven-Eyes,” said Dan, *‘ before you go back to camp [ want you to promise me one thing.” : ‘* What is it?” eagerly asked the maiden. ‘That, if Alfa Bond is brought into your camp a prisoner, you will be as good and kind to her as you have been to me.” ‘‘Why do you ask this of me, pale-face?” rather pointedly. ‘* Because, Alfa is a good and noble girl like yourself.” ‘Does the pale-face love her?” and there was a tremor in the maiden’s voice. ‘Well, I—I like her, I'll admit, Raven- Eyes,” the young ranchero answered, some- what embarrassed; *‘I like here because she is a good girl, and if you’ll see that no harm comes to her [ will forever bless you.” ** Bless? what's that?” was the surprising interrogative. n *‘Oh, il’s to pronounce a wish of joy and happiness upon you,” answered Dan. ** Then,” the girl exclaimed, a little terse- ly, ‘“you’ll love Alfa, and d/ess me!” ‘Will that not be fair to both of you?” Dan evasively responded, somewhat at a loss to know what the shrewd little savage was aiming at, ‘Yes, it will be fair, if you think so!” cried Rayen-Eyes, her voice rising with each word into a fierce passion of jealous rage; ‘“but, if Alfa ever comes into our camp, I will kill her! and you, pale-facc—al} of you, shall die like dogs in this cave!” Had a thunderbolt burst over them in that “ eR ee eS ee ee ee ee eee f ‘ ' , 7 ’ a ta { f >," He ag Re ¢ a. . Abra ane Ts A. Poe é ’ (an ating T tat ' ASA eee een oO in cave, the poor men could not h startled than by this outburs before Dan could offer a wort girl slipped from the cave out inf ‘** Belted thunder!” exclaimed die is cast! The love-sick maid¢ ly in here—an enraged tigress r Dan’, that gal war mad in love and when she cornered you ’bout the demon 0’ jealousy was aroused, ‘‘ Friends,” said Dan, seriously} n may think, from her remarks, thé en- couraged her in her regards for me, but I assure you that I said more ‘sweet’ things to the girl here in this cave than while in camp, for I never met her before. If I'd ever dreamed of such a thing, I would not have said what I did. She hag been all kindness and attention to me since I found myself in that camp, but, that she was prompted by any other motive than wo- man’s sympathy and kindness for a suffering mortal, never entered my battered, aching head.” ‘Tt was a clear case o’ love at fu’st sight,” declared Nels. ‘‘And the outcome of it may be suffering and death for you folks as well as my my- self,’’ said Dan, regretfully. “Boy, don’t—don’t, I adjure ye, peste your head ’bout us,” demurred Dismal. ‘‘ If we're to die here, why, die it is, and we'd as well laugh and make merry as to weep and grow sad. We've no reason to feel dis tressed yet. Let that little heifer kick up all she wants to. But, dear me! how I wish she’d fallen in love with Polar Sol ’stead o you! Sol’d recip’ted in a holy bat o’ ye eye. But Sol never was in favor with thi ladies. Years ago there lived an old squav in Minnesota named ‘Sugar.’ She wa blind o’ an eye, and owned a pet coon. Th coon 1 wanted—wanted its pelt to make m acap. Loffered her Old Sol, anda chaw 4 tobakker to boot, for that coon. But sh said she didn’t want him—‘he heap hungr look—git on Sugar's side where blind eye n see, and steel all the dog-soup.’ I got th coon for a drink o’ whisky.”’ Norway Nels broke into a chuckle o oa laughter, in which he was joined b an. ‘But, why don’t you tell it al, Dismal?’ Old Polar asked, ‘‘ The fact is, boys, w mutually agreed, years ago, that one coul swap the other off to any woman that'd hav him, whenever the chance was offered ‘Now, I offered to give Dismal to that sam one-eyed ole squaw, Sugar, and throw in pair o’ ole suspenders, a fine comb and a ba o’ soap. It war a temptin’ boot I war givin’ but after lookin’ at Diss round, fat face moment with that one hungry eye, sh shook her head, sayin’: ‘Don’t want hin nudder; his face got heap too much body.’ It was only by an effort that Norway re strained himself feos an outburst of hear laughter. But, despite the efforts of theftw: jolly-hearted, whimsical old Rogues to driv: despondency from their retreat, Dan Templ could not forget that Alfa Bond was, if not captive, wandering alone through the hills And finally Nels, too, became restless, an after a moment’s reflection, he said: “Friends, it seems to me a golden oppo tunity is bein’ lost here in inactivity.” ~ — ‘*What now, Ajax, isthe matter?” ques tioned Sol. ‘Do you want to stir up thg varlet nest ag’in?—flip a few more pebble into their camp.” | . ‘No; but, as there’s no tellin’ when Dan ° be able to leave here, I b'lieve I'll slide o and drop down to the ranches for a band cowboys and come up here and wipe theg varmints out of existence.” ; ‘“‘ That's easier said than done, Nels,” sa Temple. ‘‘I do not wish you to run an risks for me.. The savages are no dou watching this place now to riddle with lets the first man that shows his hes You've already risked enough for me.” \
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- The’re after the boy, but Pll bet Old Dismal’s he could return the shot should another be _ fired. | did not seem to be exactly one of triumph, rot the cave, ‘genuine yell of agony. fh risk, Dan’l, from beginnin’ to 1 Nels philosophically, ‘‘and if ¥ to-night, all right. Sol and hold the fort here, and if I clear in alive you'll hear from me inside -four hours. Pards, the verdict’s F- I'm goin’ to make the break.” ~ ild listen to no protest—no argu- fe had set his head upon going and Aid. Bidding his friends good-by he Prom the cave and was gone, lire suspense Dan and the hunters held their breath as he departed, Ten seconds had elapsed, and they were assuring them- selves that the crisis had passed, when sud- -denly the crash of firearms mingled with a demoniac yell burst like a thunderbolt on their ears. ‘*My God!” exclaimed Dan, ‘‘ they’ve dis- covered the boy!’ Norway Nels will never escape!” _ ‘*Hfarkee!” whispered Polar Sol, and silence being thus imposed, they all listened for several moments when the o!d hunter continued: ‘‘ By the sword o’ Gideon! they have not got the boy yit, and it’s catchin’ be- fore hangin’! Do you observe that yellin’ is growin’ fainter—trailin’ off down the canyon? scalp they don’t—” There was a flash in the mouth of the cave, a bullet flattened against the rear wall as the stunning crash of a rifle drowned the speak- er’s voice. Raven-Eyes had carried out her threat, and revealed their hiding-place to her friends! CHAPTER XVI. A STARTLING DISCOVERY. Ir now became necessary for the three be- sieged men to keep well behind the angles of the walls out of line with the mouth of the bear-den, for there was no telling what mo ment a bullet would be sent in. The bushes outside not only made a covert for the foe, but formed an impenetrablé vackground of darkness over the entrance to ae cave so that it was impossible to see any- thing. The ear alone had to be relied upon, and Polar Sol, revolver in hand, took a position where he could not only hear, but where An hour or two of unusual quiet, how- ever, followed. The yelling down the can- yon had entirely ceased, or, at least, the be- sieged could hear nothing more of it, and they were feeling pretty happy in the belief that Norway had made good his escape, when suddenly their ears were greeted with a new outburst of savage demonstrations. What it meant, of course, they could not tell, unless Norway’s pursuers had, after all, returned with hima captive. The confusion but rather of disappointment and dismay; but no difference what it was, the besieged were compelled to pass the remainder of that night in painful suspense and uncertainty. The noise in camp had scarcely subsided when, all at once, there was another flash and report outside and a bullet was sent into the cave to remind the besieged that the place was being watched. And, to give those watching to understand that the besieged ‘were not napping, Polar Sol sent a shot at the spot where he had seen the flash in front To his utter astunishment an unearthly savage yell answered the shot—a “A lovely snap-shot, Polar!” whispered Old Dismal. ‘‘ You winged the varmint without a doubt, you noble Old Master.” But whether he hit a red-skin or not, no more bullets were fired into the cave, The enemy, however, were not idle. The sound of ax-blows and the rustle of bushes were the mext diversions. What they were up to the Rozues could not make out at the time, but presently Sol noticed it was growing lighter ————— a a ‘ « eee ee SS about the mouth of the cave as the work out- side went on, and, finally, they discovered that the red-skins were clearing away the bushes from in front of their retreat. When three or four rods of the slope around the entrance to the bear-hole had been denuded of its shrubbery, the red-skins built a fire at one side of the place so that its light shone over the clearing. ‘‘T hope now the varmints are happy,” Diswnmal remarked. ‘‘They’ve got the en- trance o’ this hole in full view, and the bush- es cut away outside so that if we should be fools enough to walk out they could warp it to us. They’ve gone to lots o’ trouble for nothin’.” By turns Sol and Dismal kept watch. The fire was kept burning outside, which was really of as much advantage to the hunters as to their foes, for while they had no thought of leaving the cave, the light enabled them to see that no one entered. Thus the'night was spent, and when day- light came the hunters found that the re- moval of the bushes from in front of their retreat enabled them to see right over into Gray Falcon’s camp. This was a very pleasant discovery, for it enabled them to observe what was going on, and Polar Sol took a position to watch pro- ceedings, and ascertain if possible whether Norway Nels had been made prisoner or not. ‘“‘The vagrants,” he reported to his friends, ‘fare all frisking around quite peart. Some o’ them are br’ilin’ meat for breakfast, some o’ them are comin’ and goin’ ’mong the hosses, and some monkeyin’ with guns. Zip! there goes that little firebrand, Ravin’- Eyes; frisky as a doe; if she’d look this way Vd throw her a kiss—ouch! there goes Kamas Kit, limpin’ trom a tent! Kamas is pretty lame, I can tell you. There stands that white man you called Bondurance, Dan’l, talkin’ to that bad, bold Kickin’ Hoss. He seems to be a free, priviledged character there. But I cansee nothin’ 0’ big Norway Nels, for I guess he’s not there. But, pards, if -I wasn’t afraid the varmints’d change their camp, I’d go to flingin’ lead outen here with old Milinda, in two seconds. I'd want no better sport than to set here and pick them hellyons off one by one.” And thus for an hour Polar Sol continued to take observations, and report to_ his friends. In the mean time the enemy had eaten breakfast. After their repast all began stir- ring about in a manner that indicated a liveiy demonstration of some kind. Sol watched them closely, in hopes of being able to determine what they meant to do; but whatever it may have been, their prepara- tions were suddenly interrupted by the pres- ence of something in the canyon below camp. Immediately every face was turned in one direction, and all stood as if rooted to the spot. Sol could not see, owing to his narrow range of vision, what startling object neld them in such silent amazement; but he was not long kept in ignorance, for, presently, an Indian appeared in camp, with the lithe firure of a young girl, with hatless head and flowing hair, walking at his side, ‘‘Sword o’ Gideon!” burst in painful ac- cents from Polar Sol’s lips, ‘‘ they have at last recaptured the gal, Alfa Bond !” CHAPTER XVI. A THUNDERBOLT FALLS. Tra BonpuRANT, the executor, passed a estless night in Gray Falcon’s camp, and as glad when morning came. Between outbursts of excitement that periodically disturbed the night, he endea- vored to review the situation and circum- stances surrounding the new claimant; for, while he was not ready to question the claim of Gray Falcon, the white chief, to the property of Israel Mitchell, he was satis- —_————$—$—$ $$$ —$— —— ee Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. fied that he was inan unholy alliance with the outlaws who seemed very active in his interest. The presence of young Temple, a prisoner his final release by friends, the fight anc death of several men, the besieging of th¢ rescuer in the bear-cave, the fury and wickec threats of Kamas Kit, all went to show tha the allies were at war with the hunters an¢ ranchmen—in fact, with all men of Jaw anc order. Itis true, he could find no fault with his own treatment; but, notwithstanding, i was a blessed relief when the night had passe¢ and the light of day dispelled the gloom from his mind as well as the canyon. As soon as breakfast was over he repairec to the lodge of Gray Faloon, and, after ¢ short conversation, informed the chief tha he would like now to have a talk with his detective, Syl Gascoyne; also, with the man. Seth Craver. The chief dispatched Raven-Eyes for Gas: coyne, who soon appeared in the lodge, stroking his long black beard and bowing politely to the chief and his guests. “Syl,” said Gray Falcon, addressing Gascoyne, ‘‘ you will be seated and tell Mr. Bondurant how you got onto Seth Craver and Doctor Dave’s plot to rob me of my rights.” Gascoyne seated himself and began his story, and as he talked on in a smooth, modulated tone, there was something so vaguely familiar in his voice that, half the time Ira Bondurant lost the run of his story, in his endeavors to recall when and where he had heard that voice before. The more he tried, however, the more confused he be- came, und, at last, he made up his mind, before the man had finished, that the fellow’s big, full beard was a disguise behind which, he had nv doubt, was concealed a face that he would recognize were it uncovered, Be that as. it might, Gascoyne’s story was suddenly interrupted by a buzz of excitement outside in the camp, and turning, he looked out. An exclamation of surprise broke from his lips, and rising, he hurried from — the lodge. without offering an excuse for so doing. Bondurant saw the fellow was unduly excited, and, excusing himself to Gray Fal-_ con, he followed the reputed detective out, The cause of the excitement mas the pres- ence of Alfa Bond in camp. The executor recognized her at a glance, though her beau- tiful face wore a look of scorn and defiance, and her dark eyes flashed with an unnatural light as she confronted the two-score of de-_ lighted red-skins and outlaws. The girl had been brought to camp by the red-skin who, since daylight, had stood alone on guard down the canyon. He reported her on her way to camp of her own accord—that she had even begged him to accompany her to camp. Advancing through the crowd into the | girl’s presence, Bondurant addressed her thus: ‘Good heavens! Alfa, what has brought you here into this camp?” ‘‘The desire, Mr. Bondurant,” the girl re- sponded, her voice tremulous with passion, — “to avenge my father's death! J am glad to- find you still alive, though it is a wonder | these murderous wretches have spared you,” ‘«T was deeply grieved to hear of your fa-. ther’s death, Alfa,” Bondurant returned, — ‘*but surely these men and warriors will not harm you.’ { Ore ‘‘Harm me?” she exclaimed, flashin, a! look of contemptuous disdain at the leering ‘“Mr. Bondurant, t ese creatures are human vultures; they will de ye stroy me soul and body, if they can!” “Now, gal, look here,” put in Kamas Kit, © “you don’t believe that else you'd never — faces before her; come here of yer own will. Come, now, be — fair with us. Your runnin’ away We hunted for you mete os Tear * and uneasiness,” AY: give us oceans of ' ave Rha Pu ¥s " ’ | t ~< a 8. Ay 5 iy ie fay ye! | wd } ee Ce a Re Ah ee wat 4 ia | an | .
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“Tf you meant no harm to me, why did } ou not Jet me remain with the hunters?” de- ianded Alfa. ‘*We didn’t want you with sich toughs,” ‘as Kamas Kit’s cowardly answer. ‘¢ And what did your murderous hands do ; rith the young ranchman, Daniel Temple?” ie girl demanded, the fire of her flashing yes seeming to search the soul of the shrink- ig, cowardly outlaw. “Ah!” Kamas Kit exclaimed; ‘‘so you’re ere lookin’ for that handsome voung cow- ancher, eh? Well, he. killed a man last ight, but for all that we kindly brought him . here and dressed his wounds, and then ume his friends and killed a few of Gray aleon’s warriors and dragged Daniel into iat bear-hole that you can see over yonder, irl, forgit Dan Temple, for, unlike his amesake of old, he’ll not escape from the on’s den. You'd better go into Raven- yes’s lodge and get a bite to eat, and take a ttle nap, for you're tired and sleepy, and ‘oss as a little bear.” “Sir, | am the daughter of the White fedicine, Doctor Dave!” she exclaimed, rawing herself up proudly, defiantly. My father’s voice is silent, but mine is ill strong in the council of the Sioux, and rong enough to be heard across the hills. he blood of the White Medicine courses . y veins. You have murdered my father! [ ou are the enemies of my father’s people! have come here in power! Though the . ght was dark, and the mountains full of ingers, my spirit was strong, my feet en- " aring and swift—” ‘Oh, botberation!” Kamas Kit broke in; girl, you're crazy! Go into that tent and ep still till you’re rested, or you'll be a Win’ maniac!” ‘« Never into the lodge of my enemy, un- ks dead or by force!” exclaimed the maiden, ‘Ir Indian blood aroused. ‘Well, what do you want, then?” the atlaw asked, “The release of the pale-faces yonder,” ad she pointed across toward the bear cave. ‘‘ Anything else?” ‘Yes; I demand tbe murderers of my fther, that they may suffer for the crime,” us the astonishing reply. “‘My dear little girl,” said Kamas, with mck regret, ‘‘your wishes can hardly be emplied with in a single instance, Just tink how many deaths your father has cused in his time in the ranks of these red- mn! I could not grant your wish, even if I Ws disposed todo so. But, sick and feeble, Gay Falcon lies in yonder tent; if you can mke any terms with him, you are at liberty tado so, and I will take pleasure in escort- im you into his lodge,” ‘Gray Falcon,” came the shrill, sharp voce of that worthy himself, who had been + 3 lisening to all that had passed between Kit an Alfa, ‘‘ will make no compromise with on of the blood of the impostor, Doctor Dye!” ‘ That settles it,’’ decided Kamas Kit. ‘That settles it,” repeated Alfa Bond, as sh began backing off from the crowd, at the ‘sane time clasping her hands above her heé', while her dark eyes flashed with a strage, fierce light. Telieving she meant to turn and flee, Kick- ing Horse advanced with quick footsteps to sete her. But, he never did. He had _ taken scarcely five steps when the giant fig- ureof a white man was seen to step from the _ bushes not forty paces away, throw his rifle - to ais shoulder and fire, the bullet piercing thechie?’s brain. | ‘The giant slayer was Norway Nels! _. Afrantic yell of rage and vengeance burst _ fron the lips of the red-skins and outlaws, and as one the whole crowd surged toward _ ‘the hunter. But at the same moment, al- most, there arose from cover of the bushes, Nels, another Indian war-cry that seemed to ‘ . 7 along the base of the bluff behind Norway ~é Norway Nels, the Big’ Boy Mountaineer. : issue from a hundred brazen throats, and then from the covert burst a legion of paint- ed forms, that advanced to meet in battle the followers of Gray Falcon_and Kamas Kit. They were Sioux, and had come to avenge the death of their White Medicine, Doctor Dave! CHAPTER XVIII. A BLOODY CONFLICT. Furi well the followers of Gray Falcon knew the war-cry of their red foe, and their own advance was checked by the sights and sounds that burst upon eye and ear. Ira Bondurant could not realize what was coming until the friends of Doctor Dave and Gray Falcon had met in the shock of a ter- rible battle, and he heard the whistle of bul- lets above his own head. To elude these he turned and hastened toward the west side of the canyon. His first thought was of seeking refuge in the cave where he knew Dan Tem- ple and friends were besieged, for already he saw the four savages who had been guardin the cave, coming on the run to take a han in the battle. As he passed the lodge of Gray Falcon, he was astounded to see the hitherto decrepit old man come bounding therefrom witha demoniac yell, and go speeding away to bat- tle with all the suppleness and vigor of youth! Meanwhile, Kamas Kit was making better use of the precious moments. He watched the horde of enemies pouring into sight, un- til it seemed the base of the bluff was dis- solving into Sioux warriors. His surprise and new born fear magnified their numbers threefold, and as the forward movement of his friend had now landed him in the rear, he turned and limped away to the nearest. horse, which he began to saddle and bridle for flight. He was just ready to mount when a bullet struck him, and he dropped to the earth, while over and along the canyon rolled the report of a ritle, from the direction of the bear-cave. Bondurant looked abead with a start, for the bullet whistled but a few feet above his head. He saw Polar Sol and Old Dismal coming onarun, the muzzle of the latter's rifle still smoking. Down past the now cone bewildered executor dashed the Old Red River Rogues toward the scene of battle, yelling like a pair of excited madmen. As Bondurant turned to watch them, he saw Alfa Bond glide from the midst of the combatants and come run- ning toward him. He advanced to meet her. ‘*Mr. Bondurant!” she exclaimed as she approached, wild with excitement, ‘‘ have no fears, for they are the friends of my poor, dead father! Oh! it is dreadful! bnt they baie aol it all on themselves by murdering , through his mind, Old Dismal approach my father!” ‘Miss Alfa,” responded Bondurant, be- traying no little uneasiness, ‘this whole affair is a horrible piece of work! I do not understand it! Did you bring those Indians here, Alfa?” The maiden did not answer, for at this moment she saw Dan Temple, with blood- shot eyes and feverish face, come limping toward them from the cave. She ran to meet him, greeting him with a passionate fervor that for several moments could find expression Only in sobs and tears. Bondu- rant joined them, being warmly greeted by the ne ranchman, who said: ‘‘Mr, Bondurant, you’re having a lively experience.” “But, so far, you seem to have had the worst of the two, Temple,” the executor re- sponded. ‘‘Oh, Dan!” Alfa suddenly exclaimed, ‘‘how thoughtful it was of you to send word of father’s murder to his red friends!” “Ah! so I did!” exclaimed Dan; ‘‘I’d almost forgotten the fact, But, where have you been, dear Alfa, since our pd night?” ‘‘ Believing you were slain, I sf determined to reach the Indian know these hills well; but on the my father’s friends coming. Your m had aroused them. I turned baej tlhem. We soon met the brave, big Norway Nels. He was on his way Sioux village for help. He told me that you and the other men were alivé approached this camp alone in order to suade the Indian on guard to come here w me. Norway Nels and the Sioux then fol- lowed up the canyon concealed behind the bushes.” Meanwhile the battle was on in its fury. The Red River Rogues struck Gray Falcon’s: forces on the right, and with all their old- time spirit hurled themselves into the fight with clubbed rifles, and like a cyclone: mowed their way into the ranks of the foe. Gray Falcon knew it was victory or death, for the presence of the Sioux there with Alfa Bond told him they had come to avenge the death of Doctor Dave. It was a danger he had never dreamed could come so soon, In fact, the attack was a complete surprise. The odds were two to one against him, but this fact only made him fight the harder. Side by side the outlaws fought with their ravage friends, Kamas Kit alone was the craven, coward; but the bullet from Old Dismal's rifle had checked his flight. Hand to hand the combat raged. Revol-~ vers, tomahawks, knives and clubbed rifles, barked, crushed, cut and smoke. ’ Bondurant turned from the sight and almost wished he were deaf to the horrible, murderous sounds, A triumphant yell suddenly burst above the fearful din. It was the yell of victory. Overwhelmed, the followers of Gray Falcon ' were routed. What few had not been slain broke forcover. The enraged Sioux pursued them, and few, if any, of that two-score escaped to tell the tale of the sanguinary- struggle. The Red River ani and Norway Nels. met on the bloody field. The latter's face. and breast were covered with blood from a. frightful wound on the forehead, but in his. ed RTE he was scarcely aware of his being: urt. ; Polar Sol led him from the field and pro= ceeded to dress his wounds. ; They were soon joined by Dan Temple, Bondurant and Alfa, who all gave their asristance to the old hunter, , Bondurant now paced uneasily to and fro. He could see nothing of Gray Falcon, of Raven-Eyes, of Syl Gascoyne. Had they fallen in the conflict? Were both claimants to the Mitchell estate dead? While these questions were ade A | and asked: a ‘*Are you Mr. Bondurance?” ‘‘T am Ira Bondurant,” answered the exe-- cutor. . ae “Then you’re wanted up here,” said the: hunter, - Bondurant went with him to where there- es a group of Indians around a prostrate. orm. The red-skins fell back as they approached. Upon the ground lay Gray Falcon, wounded. unto death. As his eyes met those of Bon- a a grim smile came to his lips, and he. said: ‘‘ Bondurant, they were too many for us. . The game’s up with me, and, rather than fall into the Sioux power, my daughter lies. in her lodge dead by her own hand.” “‘Gray Falcon,” said Bondurant, kneeling by the chief, ‘‘it’s all dreadful! horrible! I am soulsick.” = ; ‘‘ Bondurant,” and the old man raised his. voice to a higher key, ‘‘I’ve been deceivin’ ou. I am not Powell Mitchell, but Jack _ — oble, the attempted bank-robber!”» if +
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‘’ exclaimed Bondurant, betray- tle surprise, for since his talk with 1e had made up bis mind there ing wrong. 1e chief went on; ‘as I’ve got to well tell youthe truth. Iam Jack id David Bond was Powell Mitchell. piracy was all on mine and Gas- ide. ‘There was no such person as tver, though we had a man coached Ais ’ ndurant, had you been less communi- 4 } this would not have occurred. You wos the victim of misplaced confidence. Syl Gascoyne was the movin’ spirit in the conspiracy. To him you related the story of the waitin’ fortune in the Zanesville Bank. You told him of the disappearance of Powell Mitchell, thirty years ago. You told him of your long search—even the particulars—for the lost Powell, and how at last you’d found trace of him.” ‘*Gray Falcon, you are laboring under a mistake,” declared the perplexed executor. “You may think so, but I’m not. You rode from Laramie with Gascoyne; you lodged with him; you slept under his roof— he carried you to Doctor Dave's cabin.” “Then, by heavens! Clinton Roper, the ranchman, is Sy] Gascoyne!” averred Bon- durant, the mystery of that familiar voice under the heavy black beard explained. ‘That's it, exactly!” Gray Falcon went on. ‘‘For years, Roper and I have been friends. He once lived with me. He knew, or I told him, my name was Jack Noble, and that 1 had once lived in Zanesville. When he discovered that the date of Powell Mitchell’s and my disappearance? were almost identical, he conceived the idea of putting up a job on you and get that great wealth you told was waitin’ Powell Mitchell. The scheme was a bold one, but Clint was a bold, cunnin’ man. He knew that I and a party of war- riors was in the vicinity, and after leavin’ Doctor Dave's cabin the evening he escorted you there, he came direct to my camp and we laid our plot. I had known Powell Mit- chell as a young man—knowa him and his family intimately enough, I thought, to im- 50se myself on you for Powell, Of course, {dia not intend to be seen in Zanesville, or outside of these hills. The apparently help- less condition in which you found me was to be my excuse for not leavin’ here. ** At the time Roper came to my camp, Kamas Kit was stopping with me. In fact, we were down here on a horse and cattle- stealin’ trip. The Brush Creek Ranch was the point we meant to strike. Roper had given us pointers, for he hated Dan Temple, and why? because Dan had supplanted him in the affection of Doctor Dave’s daughter. Kamas Kit was taken into the conspiracy. Alfa Bond was to be his share of the spoils. We moved our camp that night up into this canyon for we were only ten miles from Doctor Dave's cabin, ‘‘Roper at the time had aduel with Dan Temple on his hands. It was to come off next day. He was terrible afraid he’d get winged, and so made arrangements with Kamas Kit to appear on the field at the proper moment and relieve him by killin’ or capturin’ Temple. It was all mean, dirty and cowardly. “At the same time warriors and some of Kit’s men were to proceed to Doctor Dave’s cabin and bring you and Alfa here. The old man was to meet the fate he did. You were found and so was Doctor Dave. Alfa had gone away, but was captured on the duel field. The duel was brought to an end, but Temple was left unharmed, be- cause of his good marksmanship. ‘* Unfortunately for all our plans, Kamas ‘Kit let the girl git away from them last night, and you have seen the result. | he brought the Sioux here to avenge her father’s death, and she has doneit, But } * for this accident I believe we would have succeeded in our scheme.” ‘You might if I had never discovered that Gascoyne was Clinton Roper,” replied Bondurant; ‘“but, Gray Falcon, what would have been the fate of Dan Temple had he not been rescued last night by his friends?” ‘‘He was at the mercy of his rival, Clin- ton Roper, and you may judge what that mercy would have been.” ‘‘ Well,” said Bondurant, with evident relief, ‘‘the scoundrel has made a terrible mess of it, and, I suppose, met his doom in the fight. And while Doctor Dave has been murdered—foully murdered—I hope, Gray Falcon, your God, whom you are soon to meet, may deal mercifully with you for the penitence you have shown in making this confession and clearing up all doubts in my mind,” To fully satisfy himself in regard to Roper, Bondurant and Old Dismal searched among the dead for Gascoyne’s body. They found it where the battle had raged the fiercest. Old Dismal caught hold of the long beard which yielded to a slight pull, and, true enough, the face of Clint Roper was reveal ed. The story of the dying chief had been fully verified. But, the arch-villain had paid the penalty of his conspiracy with his life. Bondurant went back and remained by Gray Falcon until his death, which occurred some two hours later; and, let it be here said to the credit of the whites that, before they left the camp, out of a spirit of Christian charity, they gave the dead chief and daugh- ter as decent burial as circumstances would permit, Alfa Bond preparing the body of Raven-Eyes for the grave. Ail the possessions-—horses, camp equipage and arms of the defeated foe were turned over to the victorious Sioux, except those be- longing to the Red River Rogues, and a horse each for Bondurant, Dan Temple, Alfa and Norway Nels. | The whites went down the canyon a little way—out of sight of the battle-field—lighted a fire, and prepared dinner of such food as Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. ee a SS eC | could be found in Gray Falcon’s camp. | After the repast the horses were brought up, ready for mounting. Bondurant, Temple and Alfa mounted, and riding back to where the Sioux were in pos- session of the enemy’s camp, bid them good- by, the Indians betraying much feeling at the departure of the daughter of their beloved old medicine-man. Going back to where the Norwegian and the Red River Rogues were waiting, Dan Temple exacted a promise of them to visit his ranch within a fortnight—while Bondurant and Alfa were his guests; then they bade the hunters an affectionate adieu and rode off down the canyon. ‘ Shortly after their departure the hunters set out for Norway’s cabin, where Sol and Dismal were to remain until Nels’s wounds had sufficiently recovered to enable him to make the promised visit to Brush Creek Ranch, The death of Clint Roper, in company with Gray Falcon and Kamas Kit, produced a decided sensation over the Laramie Plains. Even the cowboys on his ranch did not know he was in collusion with the outlaws, al- though a few of them had regarded some of his lonely excursions away from the ranch as a suspicious circumstance, Alfa revisited her old home, and with the help of kind hands had her father’s remains laid by the side of her mother in that beauti- ful little valley where for years she had been so happy as a child. Accepting the hospitality of Dan Temple, Bondurant and Alfa remained on Brush Creek Ranch for nearly a month. In the mean time, Norway Nels and the two old hunters came down to the ranch on their promised visit, and during their stay there was music in the air, in and around the place, for the brave and jolly old Rogues let themselves 5 loose and went in for an old | Roman holis day. ii When Ira Bondarant and Alfa finally lef for the East, Dan Temple drove them ove' to the nearest station on the Union Pacifit Railway. There Dan and the maiden parted with words of terder, hopeful love, and— But why add more? Suflice it to say that to-day, Daniel Temple is one of the cattl barons of the West—rich not only in the pos session of worldly goods, but a charming lit tle wife whose love and wealth she had place¢ in his keeping; and in him Alfa has all tha) the heart of a true wife could wish. After their visit at the ranch had ended| Norway Nels and the Red River Rogues re) turned to the mountains, each carrying tokens of love and remembrance from those in whos¢ behalf they had so bravely risked their lives on that memorable night and day in Big | Horn Canyon. | THE END. | $$ —™ Beatle’s Dime Library. | 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 Smuggler Captain; or, The Skipper’s Crime. 122 Saul Sabberday, the Idiot Pree 270 Andros, the Rover; or, The Pirate’s Daughter, 861 Tombstone Dick, the Train Pilot. 517 Buffalo Bill’s First Trail. 584 Fire Feather, the Buccaneer King. BY EDWARD 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 Logger Lem; or, Life in the Pine Woods, | 808 Hemlock Hank, Tough and True, 815 Flush Fred’s Double; or, The Squatters’ League, |- 827 Terrapin Dick, the Wildwood Detective. “. 337 Old Gabe, the Mountain Tramp. ’ 348 Dan Dillon, King of Crosscut. 868 The Canyon King; or, a Price on his Head. 483 Flush Fred, the River Sharp. BY PROF. J, H. INGRAHAM, 113 The Sea Slipper; or, The Freebooters. ; 118 The Burglar Captain; or. The Fallen Star, 814 Lafitte; or, The Pirate of the Gulf. 816 Lafitte’s Lieutenant; or, Child of the Sea, MISCELLANEOUS,. 6 Wildcat Bob. By Edward L. Wheeler, 9 Handy Andy. , By Samuel Lover. 10 Vidoeq, the French Police Spy. By himself. 11 Midshipman Easy. By Captain Marryatt. i 32 Bthoys of Yale: or, The Scrapes of Collegians. By John D, Vose. 60 Wide Awake, the Robber King. By F Dumont “it 68 The Fighting Trapper. By Capt.J. F. C7 Adams " 76 The Queen’s Musketeers. By nents Albany. 78 The Mysterious Spy. By Arthur M. Grainger. 102 The Masked Band. By George L. Aiken. 110 The Silent Rifleman. By H. W. Herbert. 125 The Blacksmith Outlaw. By H. Ainsworth. 133 Rody the Rover. By William Carieton. 140 The Three Spaniards. By Geo. Walker, 144 The Hunchback of No tre Dame. By Victor Hugo 146 The Doctor Detective. By George Lemuel. 152 Captain Ironnerve, the Counterfeiter Chief. 158 The Doomed Dozen, By Dr. Frank Powell. 166 Owlet, the Robber Prince. By 8, R. Urban, . 179 Conrad, the Convict. By Prof. Gildersleeve, 190 The Three Guardsmen. By Alexander Dumas. 261 Black Sam, the Prairie Thunderbolt. By Col Jo Yards, 275 The Smuggler Cutter. By J.D. Conro 312 Kinkfoot Karl, the Mountain Scourge. ris Redwing. i 830 Cop Colt,the 5 OE City Detective, By C, Morrii, 350 Fissh. Falcon, the Society Detective. By Weldo, . Cobb. 353 Bart Brennan; or, The King of Straight Flush By John Cuthbert. | ‘ 366 7s Telegraph Detective. By George Henry orse. 410 Sarah Brown, Detective. By K. F. Hill. ihe 500 The True-Heart Pards, By Dr. Noel Dunbar. 518 Royal Richard, the Thoroughbred. By J, W, . th sbon. 534 Green Mountain Joe; or, The Counterfeiter? Cave. By Marmaduke Dey. 542 The Goean Drift; or, The Fight for Two Lives By A, F. Holt. ae 566 The Dauntless Detective; or, The Daughter nt Avenger. By Tom W. King. rae rea bs A new issue every Wednesday, Pe a Wonctelnce spear sae re is for f : ew ers, ten cents per copy, or sent by mail : r receipt of twelve conte cach, “BEADLE @ ADAMS, 4) Publishers, 98 William Street, New York, tk Sy Mor
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BEADLE’S« H{ ALF- [IM ed Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Nu BY PHILIP 8S. WARNE, Patent-Leather Joe; or, Old Rattlesnake, the Charmer Uaptain Arizona; or, Patent-Leather Joe's Big Game. Captain Mask; or, Patent-Leather Joe’s Defeat. Despard, the Duellst; cr, The Mountain Vempires, 8 A Tough Boy; or, The Dwarf’s Revenge. Little Tornado; or, The Outcasts of the Glen, Little Jingo}; or, the Queer Pard. BR Little Oh-my 3 or, Caught in His Own Trap, t; 4M) Little Shoo-F ly ; or, A Race fora Ranch. a3 Little Leather-Breeches 3; or, Old Jymbo’s Curse, Little Ah Sing or, The Curse of Blood, 4) Colorado Kate, A Tale of the olines. Three Jolly Parda, Jim Gladden’s Deputy. The Jolly Pards to the Rescue. Sandy Andy; or, A Good Man Down. Lariat Lil; or, The Cast for a Life. ‘| M4 Old Weasel-top, the Man with the Dogs, Keen Clem, the Ranch Imp. 9 Jim Dandy the No-Name Sport. ( 8 Billy Blazes or, The Skeleton’s Legacy, . ; > Oklahoma Il, the Blue-Coat Scout. ; 8 Mappy Harry’s Big Find. } BY CAPTAIN FRED. WHITTAKER, Sea-Cat; or, The Witch of Darien. ; rhe Dat Pas e Mead The Doge’s Daughter. . Dick Darling, fs ‘ony Express Rider. : 1 0 Lance and Lasso}; or, The Children of the Chaco, ' The Sword Munters; or, The Land of the Elephant Riders, ) 9 The Lost Captain; or, Skipper Jabez Coffin’s Cruise to the _ Open Polar Sea. 6 Boy Bedoutna; or, The Brothers of the Plumed Lance, } i Wolfgang, the Robber of the Rhine. it letked Ma 9 Milo Romer, the Animal King; or, The Round the World Wanderer. T rz or, The League of the Jungle, BS Tne Tie tck, the Demon ‘Rider. ee 5 California Joo’s War Trail. ' BY BUOKSKIN SAM (Major Sam. 8, Mall.) 44 Old Rocky's **Boyees; or, Benito, the Young Horse- ker. 6 biant Georges or, The Ang’! of the Range, SY +4 or, The Slege of Fort Pargatory, 4 Anap-Shot, the Boy Ranger. i Ohiota, the Creek; or, The Three Thunderbolts, 81 Bandera Bills or. Frio Frank to the Front, i)2 Romeo and the Reda; or, The Beleaguered Ranch, 4 Little Lariat; or, Pecan Pete’s Big Rampage. 44 The Daisy from Denver. 2? The Three Trailers; or, Old Rocky on the Rampage, 442 Bluff Bills or, The Lynx of the Leona. sh Little Lene Star? or, The Belle of the Cibolo. g4 Cache Carl, the Chico Giant BY EDWARD WILLETT, Asa Scott, the Steamboat Boy. Featherweight the Boy Champlon of the Muskingum. Ozark Alf’; or, Featherweight Among the Outlaws. The Typo Detective 3 or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp. Fearless Phils or, The King of Quartzville. The Roving Sports or, The Pride of Chuckaluck Camp, Nemo, the Detective; or, Kit Kenyon's Vendetta. Clip the Contortionist; or, The Montana Vigilantes. BY J, ©. COWDRICK. Btlver-Mask, the Man of Mystery. Sem qeeon »0 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 06 Redlight Ralphy the Prince of the Road, 914 Hroadway Bi Re Boodle. 24 The Engineer I 36 Broa ver. Billy’s , Mart, the Ni 57 proedwar Billy’s Peath Racket. Alr-Line L Billy’s Dead Act. », the Boy Shadow. bbs Nick Nettles tl Office Boy Detective, > Gontens Detectiva ’ ete, the Secret Sifter, 35 Retest caters the Under-Sea Prospector, Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer. the Detective’s Aid, 14 Whistling 3 eco, the Harlein Hammer, 89 Sunrise Saul, the Express-Train Ferret. 49 Gamin Bob, the Bowery Badger; or, Scooping a Slippery Set. BY MAJOR HENRY B. STODDARD, Ex-Scout. Dug-Out Pards, 8 prove ig Nes! ry Fig tnerdsingt of Zacatecas. x VSlove it, the Dandy of the Rocklea, 98 “Glove Kit and Pard; or, The Gold King. Mad Man-Hunter; or, The Mystery of Golden ell f " , pike Man of Fire. or, The Double @rig Witness ane, the Velvet S ve’s Dandy Pard BY ALBERT W, AIKEN, 11 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunvsa ofa Bowery Girl, 76 Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. 79% Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 268 Joe Buck of Angels and Ilias Bey Pard. 447 New York Nat. A ‘Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham, 458 New England Nick; or, ‘lhe Fortunes of a Fowndling, 464 Nimble f ick, the Circus Prince. 498 Taos Ted, toe Arizonn Sport. 510 Cool Colorado, the Hall-Breed Detective, 515 Cool Colorado in New York. BY GEORGE WALDO BROWNE, a6 eng Rock the Man from Texas. 90 The Dread Rider; or, The Texan Duelist. 99 The ‘Tiger of Taos; or, Dandy Rock’s Angel. 115 The Mad Miner? or, Dandy Rock's Doom, 181 The Golden Mand; or, Dandy Rock te the Rescue, 164 Dandy Rock’s Pledge or, Hunted to Death, , 178 Dandy Rock’s Rival; or, The |iaunted Maid of Taoe BY CAP, J. F, ©. ADAMB, 84 Oregon Sol; or, Nick Whiffles’s Boy Spy. 46 Glasas-Eye, tho Great Shot of the West. 54 Ned Hazel, the Boy Trapper, 56 Nick Whifiles’s Pets or, In The Valley of Death. 60 The White Indian; or, The Scout of the Yellowstone, 70 Old wee BY BRACEBRIDGE NEMYNG, and Jim: or, The Pet of the Family. 91 The Captain of the Clubt. cr. The Rival Athletes, 101 Jack HNarkaway in New York, hi BY OAPTAIN MAYNE RED. ue Dick: or, The Yellow Chiefs V: z ie Land rates rg The Longue of Devil's Island, 18% The Helpless Hand; sr, Backweods RY The Gold-secker Gutdo; or, The Lo Mountala, E« LIBRARY. 542 The Canyon Pards. BY JOSEPH E. BADGER, JR. 2 Yellowstone Jacky or, The een 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaw’s Ret 65 Hurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard, 119 Mustang Saim 3 or, The King of the Plains. 186 Night-ituwk Kits; or, The Daughter of the Ranch, 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. 161 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Rescue, 160 The Black Glant; or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy, 168 Deadly Dash; or, Fighting Flre with Fire, 184 The Boy Trailers ; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path, 208 The Boy Pards; or, Dainty Lance Unmaska. 211 Crooked Cale, the Caliban ofCelestinl City. 810 The Barranca W oll’; or, The Beautiful Decoy, 810 The Black Rider 3; or, The Horse-Thieves’ League, 885 Old Double Fist; or, ‘The Strange Guide 855 The Kiug of the Woods: or Daniel Koone’s Last Trail, 419 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective. 625 Chincapin Dan, the Boy Trailer. BY W. J. HAMILTON, 68 The Red Brotherhood ; or, The Twelve Avengers, 66 Single Mand; or, A Life fora Life. 72 Mad Tom Weatern, the Texan Ranger. 887 Ben Bird, the Cave King; or, Big Pete’s Scoop. BY JACK FARRAGUT. 815 Ned, the Cabin Bey. 820 The Bea Sorceress; or, The Boy Skipper, BY LIEUT. H. D. PERRY, U. 8 N. 176 The Boy Runaway; or, Eee Buccaneer of the Bay, 80 The Sea Traller; or, A Vow Well Kept. 92 Captain Kit; or, The Mystery of Montauk Point. BY HARRY HAZARD, 828 Arkansaw Jack; or, The Scourge of the Mines, 829 Red-Skin Tomy; or, The Demon's Trail. 842 The Mountain bevil; or, Yellow Jack, the Outlaw, BY COL, A. F. HOLT, 899 Black Buckskin; or, Tho Masked Men of Death Canyon 419 Kenneth, the Knife-King. . 485 Little Lightfoot, the Pilot of the Woods, BY J. W. OSBON, 469 The Rival Glants of Nowhar’. 498 Cactus Burr, the Man from Hard Luck, 5RT Old Buckeye, the Sierra Shadow, ooo Rone ® Phil, 9 Boy Mines, ig o orrit, the \ eteran Detective, 620 Little Li btning’s Leagues or, The Mystery of the Tama’) 688 Plucky Paul, the Boy Prospestor. BY FREDERICK DEWEY. 818 Cimarron Jack, the King-Pin of Rifle-Shots, 478 Tangemund, the Desert Detective, BY ARTHUR ©, GRISSOM, 440 Little Foxfoot, the Gold Bowle Kid, 558 The Sure-Shot Pards, : 621 Truthful James, the “ Pecooliar” Man. BY LIEUT, A. K. SIMS, MISOELLANEOUS AUTHORS, 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters, By Capt. Mayne Reid an’ Frederick Whittaker, ‘? Adventures of Baron Munchausen, 12 Gulliver’s Travels, By Dean dwift, 14 Aladdiny or, The Wonderful Lamp. 16 Robinson Crusoe, (27 Llostrations.) - 18 Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven ee 22 The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinson Crusoe, By Juz Lewis, 88 The Occan Bloodhound; or, The Red Pirates of the Carribees, By S, W. Pierce. , 86 7a Boy Olowny; or, The Queen ofthe Arena, By Frank inn. 88 Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 61 The Boy Rives; or, The Underground Camp, By Archi« C, Irona, * 95 The Rival Rovers; or, The Freebooters of the Mississippi, By Lieut.-Col, Hazeltine. 98 Robin Mood, the Vutlawed Earl; or, The Merry Mep of Greon- wood. By Prof. Gildersleeve. 105 Old Rube, the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive. By Captalz 112 Teed Teste 3 or, The Cave of Death, By Burton Saxe, e umters or, ry 124 Tippy, the Texan; or, The Young Champion, By George it . / 128 The Young Privateer or, The Pirato’s Stronghold. By 148 Shap Sam 3 or, The Adventures of a Friendless Boy, By J. d tien. 227 Deaky ‘Purrell, Trapper; or, The Green Ranger of the Yel» lowatone. Fo meres arate 7 ou By Geta ., arnau ne New iv oy. le tken, sei ean Fates ‘the A de; or, Davy Crockett’s Crooked Trail, By Enal . D. Warren. 208 Red Olaw the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid of the Clif, By Captain Comstock. 817 Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadville. By Liew: tenant Alfred Thorne. \ 828 The Bky Detectives or, A Boy’s Fight for Life and Honos. r Mickey . 850 Hed Ralph, the River Rovers or, The Brother's Re Wo ltimnire Hien the Bootbleck Detective. yA. P bea Gold-Durt Tom} or, Ben’s Double Match, By George ! ores, 876 California Joe’s First Trail, By Colonel Thoman Hoyer Monatery, 418 Billy Hombakell, the Cle Ciimver, By F.8. Winthrop, e ac .» By John ‘arner, Comanche Dick and His Three Invinetbles, By Henry J. Thomas, S28 Wizard-Arm, the Dandy §) By Arthur F. Holt, 582 The Cowboy Duke. By Edwin Brooke Forrest. BSS Grane BME am, | ' ate LJ v Ferret. . * 682 The Dead Detective’s Double. By Gerald Carlton, A New Isaue Every Tuesday. The Dim is sale by all newsdealers, ducks tov teens an ated eel casoieoes ie cane ane - BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Yor?
Page 16
BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novels. dwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. able Daggers; or, Deadwood Dick’s Defian ffalo Ken; or, Deadwood Dick in Disguise, ild Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval. hantom Miner; or, Deadwood Dick’s bonanza, Omaha O11; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Paris of Flood Bar. Dendweod Dick on Deck; or, Calamity June, the Heroine. Corduroy Chartle; om Deadwood Dick’s Last Act Deadwood Dick in Leadville. . Deadwood Dick's Device; or, The Double Cross Sign, 9 Deadwood Dick as Detective. 9 wens oes Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gorgon’s zuuich. 88 Blonde BIL; or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base. 149 A Game of Gold; or, Deadwood Dick's Biy Strike. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwoed; or, The Picked Party, 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dreamy; er, The Rivils of the Roud. 201 The Black Ifills Jezebel; or, Deadwood Dick's Ward. 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Last Ad- venture, 217 Captain Crack-Shot, the Girl Brigand. 221 Sugar-Coated Sam; or, The Black Gown, 282 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Rough» and Toughe, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. 68 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trall. 809 mearoes Dick’s Big Deal; or, The Gold Brick of regon, B21 Deadwood Dick’« Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats, S47 Deadwood Dick’s Ducata; or, Rainy Days in the Dig- ngs. 851 Deadwood Dick Sentenced; or, Tlie Terrible Vendetta. 862 Deadwood Dick’s Claim, 05 Deadwood Dick In Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonda. 421 Deadwood Dick in New Yorks or, A“ Cute Care,” 480 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr. 448 Nickel-Plate Neds or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Defiance. 453 penower Sam, of Shasta; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Full and, 59 erusk Fan, the Ferret; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Big Ronnd- 65 Phitto Fly, of Phenix; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Racket at ‘aim 10. 71 Bozeman BIll¢ or, Deadwood Dick Jr's Corral. 76 Humboldt Marry the Hurricane; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Dog Detective, 81 Moll Mystery; or, Deadwood Dick Jr. in Dendwood, 91 Prince Platol, the King of the West; or, Deadwood Dick Jr’a Compact. 96 Monte Cristo, Jr.: or, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Inheritance. 00 Deadwood Dick’s Megings 3 or, Dr. Death-Grip’s Swoop. 0% Deadwood Dick’s Deliverance, 15 Deadwood Dick’s Protegec. 22 Dendwood Dick’s Three. 29 Deadwood Dick’s Danger Ducka, 64 Dendwood Dick’s Death Hunt, 89 Deadwood Dick Jr. in Texas. 14 Deadwood Dick, Jr. the Wild West Vidocq. 49 Deadwood Dick on Mis Mettle. 4 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Gotham, 61 Deadwood Dick tn Boston. 67 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Philadetphia, Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Chicago, 75 Deadwood Dick, Jr. Afloat. 84 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Denver. 90 Deadwood Dick, Jr's. Decree. 95 Deadwood Dick Jr. in Beelzebub’s Basin, 00 Deadwood Dick Jr. at Coney Island, 06 Deadwood Dick Jr’s Leadville Lay. 12 Deadwood Dick Jr. in Detroit. 18 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Cincinnati, 24 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Nevada, 80 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in No Man’s Land. 186 Deadweod Dick, Jr. After the Queer. $42 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Buffalo, 458 Deadwood Dick, Jr’s. Chase Across the Continent, ; Other Novels by E. L, Wheeler. 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. 82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot, 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York, 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team, 69 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The Boy Detective, 80 Rosebud ob bit ugget Ned, th» Knight, 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner}; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand, 88 Phetograph Phils or, Rosebud Rob's Reappearance, 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp, 96 Watch-Eye 3 or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City, 18 Jack Moyle the Young Speculator. 17 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 21 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport, 25 Bonanza Lill, Miner. 88 Boss Bob. the king of Bootblacka, Al Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agont. 45 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. 61 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detctive. 7? Nobby Nick of Nevada} or, The Sierras Scamps, 81 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo. 09 Fritz, the Bound-Boy' Detective. 18 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter. 26 Snoozer, the Buy Sharp; or, The Arab Detective, 86 Apolle Bill, the Trail Tornado. 40 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator. 44 Slerra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret. 148 Sierra Saim’s Sccret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 58 Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Angel o! Big Vista. 58 Sierra Sain’s Seven; or, The Stolen Bride, 78 Jumbo Joe, the Koy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs, 77 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. 81 Denver Doll's Victory. ko Denver Doll’s Decoy 3 or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 91 Turk, the Boy Ferret. 96 Denver Doll’s Drift; or, The Road Queen. 99 A No, 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 08 ’Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 25 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia, 80 Little Qulck-Shot} or, The Dend Face of Daggersville, 84 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. 89 Kangaroo Kit’s Racket. 45 M onhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood. 58 First-Class Fred, the Gent from Gopher, 68 Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer 3 or, The Lottery of Life. Yreka Jim’s Prize. 4 N abet Ned or, The Secret of Slab City. 2 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, & Yreka Jim’s Joker; or, The Rivals of Red Nose. 89 Iieyele Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lode, 94 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. 00 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 16 Wigh Wat Warry, the Base Ball Detective, 6 Sam Slabald the Beggar-Boy Detective, B4 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives, BS Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 86 Seulskin Sam, the Sparkler, BEADLE’S*H ALF-[J)IME*[ JIBRARY. ished Every ‘ Tuesday. Hach Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 7 The Flying Yankee; or, The Ocean Outcast. 44 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccancer; or, The Fugitive Yacht, 24 Diamond Dirk; or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone, 62 The Shadow Ship} or, The Rival Lieutenants, 75 The Boy Duellat; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wolf, 102 Dick Dead-EKye, the Boy Smuggier. 111 The Sen-Devil 3 or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 116 The Hussar Capt nin 3 or, The Hermit of Hell Gate, 197 Little Grit; or, Bessie, the Stock-Tender’s Daughter, 204 Gold Plume; or, The Kid-Glove Sport. 216 Bison Bill, the Prince of the Reins, 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer. 229 Crimson mares or, The Cowboy's Triumph, 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 245 Merle, the Middy ior The Freelance Heir. 250 The Midshipman utineer ; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer. 264 van Floating Feather; or, Merle Monte’s Treasure sland, 269 The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned. 276 Merte Monte’s Cruise; or, The Chase of “The Gold Ship.” 280 Merle Monte’s Fate; or, Pear), the Pirate's Bride, 284 The Sea Marauder} or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. 287 Billy Blue-Eyes, the Bey Rover of the Rio Grande. 804 The Dead Shot Dandy ; or, Bemto, the Buy Bugler. $08 Keno Kit; or, Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. $14 non Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Long rail. 877 Bonodel, the Boy Rovers or, The Flogless Schooner. 888 The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island, 887 Warpath WIILI, the Boy Phantom. 898 Seawalf, the Boy Lieutenant. 402 Inodor, the Young Conspirator; or, The Fatal League, 407 The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta, 412 The Wild Yachtamany or, The War-Cloua’s Cruise, 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 A Cabin Boy’s Luck; or, The Corsair. ABZ The Sea Ralder. 441 The Ocean Firefly 3 or, A Middy’s Vengeance. 446 Haphazard phoney 3 or, The Scapegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizard Will: or, The Boy Ferre: of New York. 454 Wizard Will's Street Scouts, 462 The Born Guide; or, The Saiior Boy Wanderer, 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Conster. 474 Flora; or, Wizard Will’s Vagabond Pard. 488 Ferrets Afloats 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 ct the Cowboys. 608 The Royal Middy ; or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. 5607 The Hunted Midshipman, 5611 The Outlawed Middy. 520 Buckskin Bill, the Comanche Shadow. 525 Brothers in Buckskin. 580 The Buckskin Bowers, 585 The Bue skin Rovers. 540 Captain Ku-Klux, the Marander ot the Rio. 545 Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. 550 Lafitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. 5655 The Creole Corsair. 560 Pawnee BIII, the Prairie Shadower, 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. 570 Camille, the Card Queen. 575 The Surgeon-Scout Detective. 580 The Outcast Cadet; or, The False Detective, 586 The Buckskin Avenger. 591 Delmonte, tie Young Sea. Rover, 597 The Young Texan Detective. 602 The Vagabond of the Mines, 607 The Rover Detectives or, Keno Kit’s Champions. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scouts or, The Raiders and the Red Riders of the Rio, 644 The Hercules Highwayman. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Kider Detective; or, Buffalo Bill’s Boy Pard. BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm, F. Cody), 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom my AY or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout, 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover, 158 Faney Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust. BY CHARLES MORRIS, Will Somers, the Boy Detective. Phil sarcy) the Bosa Boy. Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. 0 Detective Dick; or, The Hero in Rags. 2 Wandsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, 7 WIL Wildfire, the Thoroughbred. 2 Black Beas, Will Wildfire’s Racer, ? Mike Merry, the Harbor Police Boy. 2 Will Wildfire in the Woods, 5 Billy Baggage, the Railroad Boy. 0 A Trump Gard ¢ or, Will Wildfire Wins and Loses, 74 Bob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York. 179 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner, 188 The Hidden Hanes or, Will Wildfire’s Revenge. 187 Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy; or, The Smugglers, 189 Bob Rockett; or, Driven to the Wall. 196 Shadowed ; or, Bob Kockett’s Fight for Life, 206 Dark Paul, the Tiger King. 212 Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective. 220 Tom Tanner; or, The Black Sheep of the Flock, 225 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky. 235 Shadow Sam, thé Messenger Boy. 242 The Two * Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang, 252 Dick Dashaway : or, A Dakota Boy in Chicago, 262 The Young Sharps: or, Rollicking Mike’s Hot Trail. 274 Jolly Jim, the Detective Apprentice. 289 Jolly Jim’s Jobs; or, The Young Detective. 298 The Water-IMound; or, The Young Thoroughored. 805 Dashaway, of Dakota; or, A Western Lad in the Quaker 824 Ralph Ready, the Hotel Boy Detective. 841 Tony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective. 858 The Reporter-Detective; or, Fred Flyer’s Blizzard, 867 Wide-Awake Joe; or, A Boy of the Times, 879 Larry, the Leveler; or, The Bloods of the Boulevard. 408 Firetly Jack, the River-Rat Detective. 428 The Lost Finger}; or, The Entrapped Cashier. 428 Fred Flyer, the Reporter Detective. 482 Invincible Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret. 456 Billy Brick, the Jolly Vagaoond. 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive. A79 Detective Dodge; or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty. 488 Wild Dick Racket, 501 Boots, the Boy Fireman; or, Too Sharp for the Sharper, 666 The Secret Service Boy Detective. 596 Jimmy the Kid; or, A Lamb Among Wolves. 627 Tom Bruce of Arkansas; or, The Wo)fin the Fold, sew ROR es NAST S BY OLL COOMES, & Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. 18 The Dumb Spy. 27 Antelope Abe, the Boy Guide. 81 Keen-Knife, the Prince of the Prairies. 41 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. 568 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. 1 Delaware Dick, the Young Raner Spy. + 74 Hawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ronger, $8 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. 4 184 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman, } 148 Sear-Face Saul, the Silent Hunter. 146 Silver Star, the Boy Knight. 158 Eagle Kit, the Boy Demon. 168 Little Texna, the Young Mustanger, 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain, 202 Prospect Pete ; or, Tle Young Outlaw Hunters. 208 The Boy Hercules: or, The Prairie Tramps, 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dick; or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildtire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Disguised Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger, 272 Minkskin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. 290 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spy. 800 The Sky Demon ; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger. 884 Whip-King Joe, the Boy Ranchero. 409 Hercules; or, Dick, the Boy Ranger. 417 Webfoot Mose, the Tramp Detective. 422 Baby Sam, the Boy Giant of the Yellowstone. 444 Little Buckskin, tne Young Prairie Centaur, 457 Wingedfoot Fred 3 or, Old Polar Saul. 468 Tamarae Tom, the Big hi Ae Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic, 452 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Trojan. 562 Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper, BY T. ©. HARBAUGH, 28 Nick o’ the Night; or, The Boy Spy of '76. 87 The Hidden Lodge; or. The Littl Hunter. 47 Nightingale Nat; or, Toe Forest Captains, 64 Dand ack 3 or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trab, 82 Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack 3 or, The Bey Trapper. 106 Old Frosty, the Guide; or, The White Queen. 128 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch, Jr.: or, The Boy Vigilante. 155 Gold Tr’ eger, the i sie or, The Girl Avenger, 169 Tornado Toms or, Injun Jack From Red Core, 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy, 198 Arkansaw ; or, The Queen of Fate’s Revenge. 207 Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain Bullet; or, Little Tonknot’s Crusade, 281 Plucky Phil; or, Rosa, the Red Jezebel. 241 Bill Bravo; or, Tie Roughs of the Rockiea. 255 Captain Apolivr, tne King-Pin of Bowie. 267 The Buckskin Detective. 279 Old Winch; or, The Buckskin Desperadoes, 294 Dynamite bast or, The Bowle Blade of Gochetopa. 802 The Mountain Detective; or, The Trigger Bar Buily. 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizona, 826 The Ten Pards; or, The Terror of Take-Notice. 886 Big Benson; or, The Queen of the Lasso. 845 Pitiless Matt; ov, Red Thunderbolt’s Secret. 856 Cool sam und Par? 3; or The Terrible Six, 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlass? or, The Brceaneer’s Girl Foe, 896 Rough Rob; or, The Twin Champions of Blue Blazes, A411 The Silken Lasso; or, The Rose of Ranch Robin, 418 Felix Fex, the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump, the Border Rattler. 486 Phil Flash, the New York Fox. . 445 The City Vampires; or, Red Rolfe’s Pigeon. 461 One Against Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. A??% The Exceisior Sport; or, The Washington Spottrr, 499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night Ferret. u 512 Dodger Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective, 521 Dodger Dick's Best Dodge. 528 Fox and Faleon, os gets Shadows, B88 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret. 5A8 Dedner Dick’s Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives, 558 Dodeer Dick’s Desperate Case, 568 Dodger Dick, the Boy Vidocq. 578 The Two Shadows. 5BS2 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, LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 651 Bound Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective. Wm. G, Patten, 652 Don Barr, the Plains Freelance. By Oll Coomes. 658 Billy Bantam, the Boy Beagle. By T. C. Harbaugh. 654 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Among the Smugglers, By Edward L. Wheeler e 655 Plucky Paul, the Boy Speculator. By ¢ barles Morrise 656 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt. By Col. P. Ingraham. 657 Warbling William, the Mountain Mountebank. By Lieut, A. Kk’ sims. 658 Sky-Rocket Rob, the Life-Saver. By Jo Pierce. 659 Moonlight Morgan, the ‘ Pizenest ” Man of Ante Bar; or, Cibuta John’s Champion Chase. By J. C, Cowdrick. ‘ 660 Dev dwood Dick, Jr’s., Insurance Case. By Edward L Wheeler. 661 Old Kit Bandy’s Deliverance. By Ol] Coomes. 662 Butterfly Billy’s Bonanza. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 66% Violet Vane’s Victory. By Wm. G. Patten. 664 Cheeky Charley, the Special. By P. 8. Warne. 5 665 Jolly Jeremiah, the Plains Detective; or, Warbling Wil- liam’s Home Run. By Lieut. A. K. Sima. 666 Dendwood Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines} or, The Mountain Amazon’s Double Game. By Edward L, Wheeler. 667 Bob and Sam, the Daisy Detectives. By Charles Morris, 668 The Buceaneer Midshipman. By Col. P. Ingraham, 669 Tat ta. 4 Billy Abroad. By J.C. Cowdrick. By 670 Norwa ela, the Big Boy Mountaineer By Ol] Coomer , 671 Jerse "54, the Boy Hustler; or, Shadowing the Shadower. > By T. C. Harbaugh. 672 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Durango} or, “ Gathered In? By Edward L. Wheeler 678 Ralph penweod, the Lightning Express Detective, By A. F. Holt. 674 The Wizard Saflor; or, Red Ralph, the Rover. By Cok. Prentiss Ingraham. Ready June 24. : 6% Broadway BIly’s Best; or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. By J. C, Cowdrick. Ready July, 1. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half- Dime Library 18 for sule by all newsdealers, five eents per copy, or sent by mail on reseipt of six cents each. BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.