Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 691) (1890 10 21)
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wa ala 7 oolmaceles| & AX ree aie) . ‘Z eS (it Nas i i 8 a rt ceeeeel. ee ea NS | Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., at Second Class Mail Rates. & ee ee es $2.60 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. a Year. No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. A ey Aes il al li HI | The Raioad Panis Big Day. BY COL. A. F. HOLT, AUTHOR OF “BLACK BUCKSKIN,” “ LITTLE LIGHT: FOOT,” ETC., ETC, CHAPTER I, “aLL ABOARD,” ** Now, then, Rufe, don’t be so sparin’ of elbow- "Shanes A little more polish won’t burt that rass-work, by any means, Remember, this is a special occasion, an’ we mustn’t allow the . Boicciaghet g Po do her part lookin’ like a dirty, BZ Sigs ZZ Z EE rusty old shiftin’ engine, EAA SSS z Standing beside the ponderous driving-wheels HARRY KNELT AT THE VERY EDGE OF THE PLATFORM, WHILE WITH BOTH HANDS of his locomotive, oil-can and cotton-waste in HE POISED THE PONDEROUS COUPLING BAR, hand, Headlight Harry paused in his occupation
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s The new road, leavin to address the fireman who, perched upon the running-board, was scrubbing away as though his very life depended on his efforts, ‘“*Humph! Ireckon them words o’ yourn are a leetle mice unnecessary, pard, considerin’ the fact that I’ve be’n a-doin’ the great scrubbin’ act for the past hour,” returned Rufe Ruffle, quick- ly. ‘‘ Ill take mighty sharpeyesight to discover a trace o’ dust or grease on the old machine when I get done with her, I’ll allow.” Indeed, the fireman’s assertion was fully sub- stantiated by the appearance of the majestic ** iron-horse” which was the subject cf such care- ful attention. A locomotive superior to the “*Fleetwing” never turned a wheel upon the irons, and her sterling worth had been demon- strated by long and constant service, though the uninformed observer might be misled into be- lieving her fresh from the hands of the builder, so bright and beautiful was her appearance, A thorough repainting had been the first step toward restoring the ‘Fleetwing’s” original beauty, and the rest remained for Headlight Harry and his faithful assistant to accomplish. Their work was now all but finished, and from cow-catcher to tender the huge machine gave evidence of their clever handicraft, Long and sedulous polishing had transformed every inch of brass and steel-work into burnisked gold and silver that gleamed refulgently in the morning sunlight, Then, too, countless yards of bunting hung in graceful festoons from every practicable osition, while numerous flags and streamers uttered idly in the breeze, going far to render the general aspect of the “ Fleetwing” as at- tractive as it was unusual, But why these unwcnted preparations? It must indeed be, as Headlight Harry remarked, **a special occasion,” to call for such remarkable demonstrations. In truth, this bright Spring morning was to witness no less an event than the completion and formal opening of the Bel- mont Branch of the R. & 8, R. R. The R. & 8S, was then among the foremost of our thriving Western corporations, and the addition of the Belmont Branch to their already extensive Jines was the latest and most convine- ing evidence of their indefatigable enterprise. the main line at’ Rich- ville, extended fifty miles or more to Belmont, a prosperous and populous community nestled cozily among the foot-hills. The country en route was unusually wild and inhospitable, presenting such serious obstacles to railroad building that, up to date, tae good people of Belmont and the several intervening places were forced to be content with the old-fashioned, slow-going stage-coach. { Bot now, what a wondrous change was wrought! Discoveries of precious metals in the valley had created a boom of no inconsiderable dimensions; and as a result Belmont and its hitheftto unimportant neighbors were fast in- creasing in siza and importance, and keenly felt the need of adequate transportation. To supply this much-felt want, the far-sighted manage- ment was led to project the new line in the face of well-nigh insurmountable obstacles, So, after many vicissitudes and at an enotf- mous outlay, the Belmont Branch at last became a reality; and its completion was deemed an oc- casion for uviversal rejoicing by those who had so long been deprived of the advantages of rapid transit, To give full vent to popular enthusiasm, it was determined, ere opening the new road to regular travel, to devote a day to celebrating the com- pletion of the stupendous work in a manner _ that should render it a veritable red-letter day - in the history of that enterprising community, Belmont was quite appropriately fixed upon as the scene of festivity; butin order that all along the line might take a part in the memor- able occasion, if was arranged to run an excur- sion train from Richville, conveying the various railway officials as well as the bundreds of pleasure-seekers who were sure to embrace this rare opportunity for an outing. So the appoint- ed day was eagerly awaited, and bade fais to ’ witness a celebration long to be remembered. To pilot the excursionists on this the initial trip over the new line, no less a personage than Headlight Harry was selected; for, though hardly more than a boy in years, no more skilled and reliable engineer than he could be found on the entire road. He was ordered to hold himself in readiness for this special duty; and so we find him at the appointed hour, together with his efficient associate, actively engaged in preparing the ‘‘ Fleetwing ” for her part in the prospective jubilee, It was but natural that the young fellows should feel proud of the honor conferred by the management in thus selecting _ them, of all others, to serve on so auspicious an ~ Headlight Harry’s Haul occasion; end consequently their preparations were made in a spirit of great enthusiasm, ‘“‘ There, Rufus, old man! I propose we call the job complete,” cried Headlight Harry, at last. ‘‘We have taxed our decorative in- geouity to its utmost, and, considering, the limited time and material at our disposal, I flatter myself that the ‘Fleetwing’s’ appear- ance can scarcely be improved upon.” Rufe Ruffle walked round and round the dor- mant iron-horse, closely scrutinizing every point with admiring eyes, ‘“‘There’s no flies on the old gal, betcher life,” he declared, with more fervor than elegance. ‘*No one with half an eye for the beautiful kin fail to fall dead in love with our pet machine, eh, Harry?” *“*T fancy we need not feel ashamed to head the procession, even in such distinguished com- pany as we shall be favored with tc-day,' I sup- pose you are aware that our first coach is to be occupied by the president, superintendent, directors, and so-forth, accompanied by their respective families,” “My eyel What an aggregation of wealth and aristocracy! I suppose the beautiful belle of Richville will be among the number,” “If you refer to Mabel Melrose, our presi- dent’s daughter, I dare say the oceasion will be enlivened by her presence. Indeed, the party would be incomplete without her,” ‘So say i, old pard; forshe’s just the boss gal of these parts—a reg’lar daisy from Daisyville, you hear me!” ‘* Yes; Miss Melrose is, indeed, an estimable young lady—as good and pure as she is beauti- ful,” complimented the young engineer; where at his comrade nodded approvingly. ‘*No wonder all the young fellers in town are clean gone on the president’s daugh- ter, for she is a prize well worth the winning,” said Rufe Ruffle, garrulonsly, ‘I say, Harry, rou are a proverbially lucky dog, an’ quite a oie? with his royal nibs. I shouldn’t be sur- rised if— Headlight Harry impatiently interrupted the speaker, “That'll do, Rufe!” he sharply exclaimed, “I see what you are driving at, and beg to inform you that you’re on the wrong tack, You are prepay unaware.that my matrimonial choice is already made, and that the day is not far dis- tant when I hope to become a Benedict, My bride-elect, however, moves in the humbler -walks of life, far removed from Mabel Melrose, in point of wealth and station, but none the less an embodiment of womanly purity and loveli- ness, : **Oh, ho! That's how the wind blows, is it? Well, I was a blockhead not to have surmised the truth afore, for all the boys have wondered what powerful! attraction twas that brought ye so frequently to old Seth Sharon’s cottage. Ha, ha! Got it right this time, haven’t I, Harry?” ‘¢- Your shot comes straight to the mark, Rufe,” admitted the engineer, while his handsome face flushed hotly. ‘‘But come! - The excursion starts at 8 sharp, and it’s now 7:50. Time for us to pull out, I should judge.” He sprung lightly into the cab, with the fire- man scarcely behind him, “* An’ so you’ve really détermined to commit matrimony, old pard?” went on the irrepressible Rufus, as they moved slowly out of the round- house, ‘* Well, here’s luck to both you an’ pret- ty Ruth, the flagman’s daughter; an’ don’t for- get to invite us boys when the interestin® event takes place. Asfor Mabel Melrose,” he added, “T reckon she aspires to something better than a workin’-man, though they do say that Roy No- ble, the Express-messenger, has bright prospects in that direction,’ Well, Roy’sa first-rate feller, an’ here’s hopin’ he'll reach the goal of his ambi- tion.’ ‘ While the loquacious fireman thus gave his tongue free play, Headlight Harry ran his hand- some engine over the switch and thence back upon the main line to where waited the first sec- tion of the excursion train, consisting of several gayly-decorated cars, every one of which was already filled to overflowing with an eager crowd of pleasure-seekers, undreds, too, of no less enthusiastic stay-at- | homes had congregated to witness the departure, and the appearance of the “‘ Fleetwing,” resplen- dent in her gala attire, was greeted by long and hearty applause, “All aboardJ” cried the conductor, standing watch in hand as the locomotive was s ily coupled to the forward car, while Rufe Ruffle nervously jerked the bell-rope and the engineer home from his window to catch the starting- sivnal, : Promptly at the appointed moment it was given. Headlight Harry grasped the throttle, the ponderous wheels of tke iron-horse slowly revolved, and, amid the cheers of the populace and the strains of inspiring music, swelled by the clang of brazen bells and the deafening scream of steam-whistles, the first trip over the Belmont Branch was auspiciously begun. CHAPTER Il. . AN AUSPICIOUS OPENING. Away rolled the long train, slowly at first, but with a gradually increasing speed that soon carried it beyond the environs of Richville and into a section of country hitherto untraversed by the iron steed, the wondrous scenic beauties of which immediately challenged general atten- tion. x Now the course lay through a verdant valley, skirting the precipitous bank of a rapid stream which rushed leaping and swirling on its erratic course as if incensed at this intrusion upon its pristine solitude; then, crossing the creek upon a lofty trestle, the road ran for miles through the heart of the virgin forest, where mighty trees arose on either hand and interlocked their - giant branches overhead. Anon, a flourishin village would greet the eye—one of the severa communities along the line whose suddenly in- creasing size and importance had influenced to no small degree the construction of the Belmont Branch; then off again rumbled the train into another stratch of wilderness where Nature reigned in primeval grandeur. So, the special wound rapidly upon its ser: pepvtine course, skirting a verdant hillside here, crossing an airy trestle there; now clattering noisily through a narrow defile or hanging upon the very verge of a giddy precipice, while ever aud anon the ‘‘ Fleetwing’s” lusty whistle awoke the echoes of the surrounding hills, Every turn*in the road brought some fresh scenic feature into prominence, and added to a pano- rama of such rare, kaleidoscopic beaut to hold the eye enthralled by its bale 3 power, Owing to the extreme length of the excursion train, together with the fact that every inch of the way was strange to the alert engineer, rapid running was scarcely to be expected; but the time was passed pleasantly by all on board, and, after an exhilarating ride of two hours’ duration they found themselves at their journey’s end. , When the living stream of humanity poured from the cars, it was to find their coming antici- pated by a vast crowd that had assembled to extend a hearty welcome. Carriages were in waiting for the president’s party, who, under’ escort of the various local companies, were im- mediately driven away to the scene of the forth- coming ceremonies, while the main body of visitors, less favored but equally contented, bre added their numbers to the concourse at already filled the streets of Belmont. It was evident that the town was now enjoy ing a state of excitement never before rienced in its eventful history, Expectant sight-seers thronged every thoroughfare, Pub- lic buildings, shops and private residences vied with each other in the magnificence of their decorations. From every advantageous point fluttered the glorious Stars and Stripes, while brazen bells clanged out a sonorous greeting upon the clear morning air, : pon an improvised platform, in the center of the village green, were conducted the opening exercises of the day, for no hall was adequate to hold one-tenth of the vast concourse of eager, cheering people. In a terse speech, President Melrose formally genase the new road to the public; after which remarks were in order from vafious town and railway officisls, together with distinguished guests, all of whom were attentively listened to and vociferously ap- plauded. _ These formal exercises being concluded, the people dispersed in every direction, to oe, the various features which an indefatigable committee on celebration had_considerately ar- ranged for the edification of Belmont’s citizens and guests, Of these it is quite unnecessary to speak in detail; enough to say that a grand military and civic procession was followed by a succession of sports and games, interspersed by frequent band. concerts, while a brilliant dis- play of fireworks in the early evening served to cap the climax of a Jong and varied peta. n the mean time, having carefully housed and cared for their pet iron horse, Headlight Harry and Rufe Ruffle were free to call t time ‘their own; so, having discarded overalls and ju they emerged in all the fry of holid 7 attire, and mingled with the gay and jovons throng. "7 it was but seldom that these hard-working hd ie!
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oa) railroad boys found an opportunity for an out- ing, and they sallied forth with the determina- tion of making this occasion one of unalloyed enjoyment. eedless to say, they were suc- cessful, flitting here, there and everywhere, like a pair of overgrown youngsters just freed from the thralldom of school, ‘ Not until the approach of nightfall did Head- light Harry call a halt in the continuous round of pleasure, “ See here, Rufus!” he exclaimed. ‘‘ Are you aware that we are guilty of a most serious of- fense?” “Eh? What kind of a fence?” “Why, in our frantic efforts to see all the sights, we have entirely ignored the inner man. tT have no recollection of eating anything since early morning; and, moreover, I entertain a faint suspicion that | am hungry.” ‘Ay; come to think of it, I feel a little that ‘way, myself,” admitted the fireman, ‘‘ though with racin’ round pell-mell from place to place, a feller can’t find time to skirmish for rations,” * Well, we now kave just time enough for a good square meal before the next act on the programme, So, let us sample the cuisine of the Good Cheer Inn,’ whose gilded sign I see dis- played across the way.” Into the eating- house they directed their steps, and seated themselves within a vacant stall. Having issued a very substantial order to the waiter, they settled themselves to await its arré- val; and it was while thus engaged that sub- dued voices’ from the adjoining apartment reached their ears, Two men were in earnest conversation; and, though spoken in low tones, much of their, speech was audible through the thin partition. ** So, then, all arrangements are completed?” came in harsh accents from one of the unknowns, “ Ay; thoroughly,” was the prompt reply. *‘The snare is set, and nothing remains but to wait until the game runs into it,” ** It is a stupendous scheme! Do you believe we shall succeed ** Succeed! Why, pard, success is certain, So carefully have our plans been laid that failure is an utter impossibility.” ‘*Let us hope your confidence is not mis- placed,” returned the first speaker. “ It is, in- deed, a tempting prospect! Why, if our plans prosper, we shall—” But, at this interesting juncture the sudden reappearance of the waiter was accompanied by the rattle of dishes, and the voice from the next stall abruptly ceased, much to the disgust of the railroaders, whose curiosity was considerably inflamed by what they had just overheard. “Td give a dollar to know a thing or two about them fellers next door,” muttered Head- light Harry. “I’ve heard enough to convince me there’s some kind of a job on foot, though what it is I am quite unable to guess,” Nor were the unknowns inclined to enlighten him, for they lapsed into silence the instant they become aware that the adjacent apartment was occupied. Naught came to the ears of the lis- teners save the occasional chink of glass or the rattle of knives and forks. Ten minates passed in this manner; then once again came voices, very low and indistinct, However, by applying his ear to a crack in the partition, the engineer was enabled to catch the drift of the stranger’s speech, “Well, pard, it’s growing late, and I shall have scarcely time to reach the rendezvous if we dally longer here. I must be off at once; and as for you—” “T know my duty, Cap. Bill is doubtless in waiting at the appointed place; and, you kin depend upon it, we’ll be on hand to do our little act in the programme,” “Very good! Now,one more drink before we part. Here’s to the success of our enterprise! May we reaparich reward for our risk and pains.” The merry jingle of the glasses followed these sanguine sentiments, and almost immediately the mysterious schemers arose and left the place. They glanced sparply. as they passed, at the stall which sheltered the two eavesdrop- pers; but Harry bad discreetly drawn the curtain, and was completely screened from view as he, in turn, keenly regarded the departing —~. 2 . 4 > 2 _ eed Sa ener as Se — FE Fieve AVRGSE ELS Gos E2E GER) Gyedh S014 Sohc Geb Se 2 sees 22 LPEEEE FeESTOLE At the door, however, a stalwart fellow coolly barred the way. : * “Don’t hurry so, my friends,” he advised, calmly. ‘‘Gents that eat here gen’rally settle their little bill afore they depart tor ‘ fresh fields an’ pastures uew,’” Yes, yes—sure enough!” stammered Headlight Harry, who in his excitement had quite over- looked the necessary ceremony of paying at the desk. ‘* Here, take this and get out of the way!” He thrust a billinto a ready band, and instant- ly the path was clear; but, even this slight delay was fatal to their purpose, for they reached the street nly to fini that the strangers had vanish- ed, Greatly discomfited, the would-be trailers elbowed their way through the crowd, searching eagerly but in vain for their wily game, ** Bad luck to the slippery scoundrels!” grum- bled the engineer with exceedingly ill grace. ‘*T had set my mind on tracking them to fathom their designs,” **Small loss, I reckon,” returned Rufe Ruffle, rather unconcernedly. ‘‘I don’t imagine there's anything in the wind worth our botherin’ our precious heads about.” ‘* Perhaps not, pard; yet I’m inclined to think differently. At any rate, I’d give considerable to— Ha! There’s one of the fellows, now—the tall chap whose .voice sounded so strangely familiar! The worthies have parted company.” The man in question had suddenly emerged from a neighboring stable leading a powerful horse, byjidled and saddled, Even as the young men caught sight of him, he leaped to the saddle and would have ridden away but for a quite un- expected occurrence, A monster torpedo from the hand of a mis- chievous urchin exploded directly in front of the steed, which, in sudden fright, swerved to one side with a violence that dislodged its rider, and hurled him to the earth, The railroad boys were foremost among the crowd that to t and, as the fallen horseman struggled to his feet, they saw what a change had taken Plane in bis appear- ance, The force of the fall had served to dis- l6dge his sandy beard and wig, and revealed a swarthy, sinister countenance, at sight of which Headlight Harry recoiled in undisguised aston- ishment. ** Nick Norman, by the eternal!” he cried. ‘Ay, ’tis he, sure’s the sun shines above us,” echoed the fireman, no less surprised at the dis- covery. As for the so-called Nick Norman, he ap- peared to be greatly disconcerted at the recogni- tion, Scowling fiercely, and with a smothered oath, he clutched his disarranged head-gear and limped toward his horse, which a sympathetic bystander had caught and held at his disposal. As he pained the saddle, Headlight Harry. re- covered from his surprise and darted forward, shouting: . “Seize him! Stop him! with a price upon his head!” CHAPTER IIi. DANGER. - As this startling announcement burst from the lips of the engineer, all who heard stood speechless in amazement, for many recognized the name, Nick Norman, as that of a notorious criminal who had long evaded the clutches of the law. However, the people were on pleasure bent, and had no particular desire to figure promi- nently in an outlaw hunt, especially when fraught with immediate danger to themselves; for the fugitive had agence spurred forward, reins in teeth, and in each hand a heavy revol- ver that frowned threateningly upon the crowd, Asaresult of this warlike demonstration, a path was opened as if by magic, and, with a taunting laugh, Nick Norman flashed down the street and disappeared ina cloud of dust, leav- ing Headlight Harry not a little exasperated at the turn affairs had taken. Itmay be stated here, by way of explanation, that the fugitive horseman was a character who had figured prominently in local history during the past, though in a by no means creditable role, Originally holding a position of trust in the service of the R. & S. R. R. Co., he had made the most of his opportunity to defraud his employers, until at last found out and rewarded with a long term in prison for his various mis- demeanors, The prison-walls, however, were not strong enough fo hold Nick Norman, and he was soon at liberty, breathing dire threats against his prosecutors, Prompted by a fiendish desire for revenge, he deliberately planned and attempted to wreck the Night Express, bu happily, his devilish designs were frustrat mainly through the watchfulness of Headlight He is an outlaw, ae ERAS ee En GMT NS re EE tg Harry. After this desperate attempt to destroy lives and property, the scoundrel mysteriously disappeared, and though numerous search par- ties, stimulated by large rewards, scoured the country in all directions, their efforts to recap- ture him were unsuccessful. Nick Norman had one motherless child—a handsome girl at that time just entering womanhood, who had found a home with a rela- tive when her father was imprisoned; but when , he regained his liberty, and fled from the coun- . try, Madge, the girl, also disappeared, and it was generally believed she had accompanied her fugitive parent, to whom she was greatly at- tached despite bis evil ways, Two years elapsed, and, nothing being heard of the hunted outlaw, it was believed he had successfully made his way East; and society re- joiced at being well rid of a dangerous criminal. Now, however, a chance incident revealed the fact that Nick Norman, shrewdly disguised, was still living near the scene of his past exploits, and Headlight Harry’s surprise at beholding the outlaw was equaled only by his disgust at the easy manner in which the latter effected his es~ cape. Separating themselves with difficulty from the inquisitive crowd, the railroad pards sought a more secluded spot where they earnestly dis- cussed the events of the day. The engineer, especially, evinced much uneasiness, ‘‘This surprising discovery has served to greatly strengthen my suspicions that a deep scheme is on foot,” he declared. ‘‘ Nick Nor- man is an unprincipled scoundrel, shrewd to plan and_bold to execute, as his past record has shown. Depend’ upon it, he is laying for im- portant game!” ‘Plague take the dirty rascal! Who ex- ected to see his ’tarnal:mug ag’in? An’ tothink ow slick he got away! Shoot my cat if I wouldn’t give my last copper jest to know what the durned skunk is driving at.” . ’ _ Regarding which we are entirely in the dark. We overheard just enough of their con- versation to excite our curiosity without satisfy- ing it. Nick, himself, is beyond reach, so it only remains for us to keep a sharp lookout for his late ree gee who, you remember, was to meet a third party somewhere hereabouts, It is our sole chance to arrive at a solution of the mystery.” © *“Humph! Might as well look for the tradi- tional needle in the haystack,” returned Rufe Ruffle, dubiously; and so the sequel: proved for the most diligent search failed to reveal the well-remembered face of the man who had figured as Nick Norman’s fellow-schemer. As may be easily imagined, the remainder of the evening’s entertainment had no charm for the engineer and fireman of the ‘ Fleetwing.’ Haunted by vague presentiments of coming evil which they were quite unable to overcome, they passed the time in a state of doubt an meget that increased instead of diminishing as the hour for departure drew near. While the great multitude thronged the pub- lic square, listening to lively music and gazing in open-mouthed admiration at a truly magni- ficent display of fire-works, the railroad boys stole away to the seclusion of the round-house, where they endeavored to shake off their un- easiness as they busied themselves in preparin the dormant iron-horse for its long homewa un, ‘f Much sooner than was necessary the ‘‘ Fleet- wing” took its place at the head of the long train, while, with fast-increasing impatience, its young masters awaited the moment to start. Time passed on tardy wings, and the hour was late when the tired but enthusiastic Richvillians at length found their way on board the cars, Leaning impatiently from the cab, Headlight Harry {caught the welcome signal, and imme- diately his ready hand caused the slumbering monster to spring. into sudden life and activity, Puffing, snorting,ggroaning, the mighty ‘ Fleet- wing ” moved laboriously from the station with its enormous freight, and entered upon a trip that was to prove the most eventful in its history. As the train rolled away, two dusky forms bounded upon the front platform of the first car, thence climbed noiselessly to the top of the tender and vanished as suddenly as they came. Who were they? Two tramps, no doubt, anx- ious for a ride, who had selected this unusual position as one least liable to visitation by an argus-eyed conductor. Howbeit, their movements entirely escaped attention from the occupants of the cab. Headlight Harry sat, hand on throttle, peering intently age age narrow window upon the track ahead; while Rufe Ruffle, having stuffed
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a Eee a if M4 < a the fire-box to its full capcity, had settled him- self comfcrtably back in his lofty seat to enjoy a few minutes of inactivity. Moving at moderate speed, the train had reached a point perbaps twenty miles from Belmcnt, when a sbarp turn in the road brought into view a sight that caused both men to leap suddenly to their feet, A flaming red light, swung round and round by some unknown hand, mutely warned the ap- proaching trainmen of danger abead, “Quick, pard! The bridge—Wild Creek tres- tle is right abead! Trouble there, I reckon!” elled the excited fireman, and he gained the and-brake with a single bound. But, Headlight Harry only smiled grimly as he swiftly pulled the throttle open still wider than before. : “Down with you, Rufe! Down—down, [ say!” he shouted, as the engine forged ahead at increased speed; and at the same moment he threw himself upon the floor of the cab, Wondering, Rufe Ruffle obeyed, just as they flashed by the unknown possessor of the treach- erous signal lantern, Then, above the roar and rattle of the train, arose loud shouts mingled with the sharp report of fire-arms, while bul- lets whistled viciously into the cab, shattering glass, but inflicting no harm upon the occu- ants, ‘*Safe!l” gasped the engineer, struggling to his feet. ‘The secret is out, now, ick , Pood man has opened his game only to be euchered at the start. Hurrah |” Luckless Headlight Harry! His exultance was ill-timed, for Nick Norman’s plans were well laid, and peril lurked in an unexpected source. Two shadowy forms crept stealthily over the swaying tender, poised for an instant above their unsuspecting victims, then with weaponed hands uplifted, leaped into the cab with the fury of jungle tigers, Simultanocously, the brave engineer and his associate sunk motionless to the floor, while the masterless engine, rocking and lurching, sped on with frightful velocity. CHAPTER IV. THE MIDNIGHT RAIDERS, THE first section of the returning excursion train was of but moderate length, comprising six spacious coaches, each of which, however, was filled to its utmost capacity. First in the line was the private car of Presi- dent Melrose, containing the directors and high officials, together with their families and a num- ber of distinguished guests, The next two cars were occupied by stockholders and minor of- ficials, with their families and friends, while the remainder of the train was devoted to the ac- commodation of various military and civic or- ganizations that had participated in the grand afternoon parade. It was a merry throng, although a weary one for a long day of ceaseless pleasure-seeking had juced a dominant desire fot home and slum- 1; yet enthusiasm was not in the least abated, and one and all united in voting the trip an un- qualified success, Within the president’s luxurious privats coach —a very palace on wheels—were a3sembled some fifty ladies and gentlemen, representing the flower of wealth and fashion, President Melrose, tall, portly and handsome, occupied a conspicuous position, surrounded by. a group of particular friends, He was a man well advanced in years, many of which had been spent in active railroad life, and when, but a comparatively short time prior to the opening of this narrative, he stepped into bis present high position, it was to bring with him a practical knowledge that at once made him much more than the mere figure-head that a rept! president vot infrequently represents Already were his progressive ideas bearing fruit, for it was due mainly to his energy and in- fluence that the famous Belmont Branch was ag es and pushed to a speedy completion. ow that the new line was a thing of reality, and the various features of the great celebration had moved without a hitch; it was quite fit that President Maurice Melrose should be, as he seemed, the personification of contentment, as he lolled carelessly in the luxurious reclining-chair, and chatted with bis no less joyful associates. At the same time, in another section of the car, his beauteous daughter might be seen, the center of an admiring group; for of all the ten- der sex whose presence that distinguished company, none could vie with beautiful Mabel Melrose, whose attractiveness of person and charm of manner made her at once the reigning belle of local pone Bright and intellectual to a marked degree, ire) ety {kat ie abies sh os tee Headlight Harry’s Haul. and with a wealthy father eager to gratify her every taste and whim, the fair gtrl had very sensibly made the most of her golden oppor- tunity, and now, at the age of nineteen, found herself possessed of a thorough education, the mistress of many accomplishments, as well as a | paragon of beauty, and a particularly brilliant | star in the galaxy of social luminaries. Little wonder, then, that when Maurice Mel- | rose removed to that bustling Western country, to assume the presidency of the R. & §. R.R., the appearance of his lovely and accomplished daughter created a decided seusation among the | marriageable young Richvillians, few of whom, however, dared to aspire to the affections of the queenly heiress, Gayest of the gay was Mabel Melrose, as she reclined upon the velvet cushions, surrounded by friends and admirers, The manifold discom- forts of the day were apparently quite without effect upon her, for she joined vivaciously in the conversation, her merry laughter ringing like the music of a silvery bell. With a tall, graceful form, beautifully chiseled features, arta brown eyes, and a profusion of wavy tresses, the young lady presented a picture of health and beauty well calculated to challenge admiration. But, neither the merry maiden nor her friends dreamed for an instant of the perilous times in store for them; else, indeed, their merriment would have been short-lived. Deadly danger hovered over that ponderous excursion train as it rolled laboriously on its homeward way, and the feeling of security that pervaded the occu- pants of President Melrose’s gilded palace car was destined to be rudely dispelled. As a point was reached perbaps twenty miles beyond Belmont—a wild, desolate spot midwa between two unimportant stations—there sud- denly came asbriek of warning from the locomo- tive, while speed was slackened with an abrupt- ness that served to quite upset the equilibrium of the startled passengers. Almost before they could comprehend what was taking place, the train came to a dead stop, then fentiocincely began to move backward, very slowly at first, but with rapidly increasing 8 Por course this sudden action on the part of the engineer, quite inexplicable as it was to them, created consternation among the occu- pants of the cars, Amid a tumult of excited exclamations and _ inquiries, windows were thrown up and heads thrust recklessly out in ut- ter disregard of consequences. Stygian dark- uess shrouded the scene, and even the sharpest eyes could discern nothing unusual, nor could augbt be heard save the regular working of the “True enough. Then, there is undoubtedly some obstruction on the track.” ‘Tn that case it would merely be necessary to come to a stop, without backing in this fashion, That confounded engineer must be either drunk or crazy!” “ Pardon me, sir!” quietly interposed Superin- tendent Renwood, who was the coolest man in the car. ‘Headlight Harry is at the throttle, and I am quite certain he is neither drunk nor crazy. Heis one of the most reliable men in our service, and depend upon it, he has good reason for his action, however mysterious it may seem to us,” Ralph Ren wood’s confidence in his old-time as- sociate, thus freely expressed, was by no means misplaced; yet, alas! he little dreamed that one otber than Headlight Harry was responsible for the erratic movements of the train. At that moment the young engineer lay senseless on the floor of the cab, while above him, coolly manip- ulating the throbbing locomotive, stood a stal- wart ruffian whose name did not adorn the pay- roll of the company. It was not long, however, before the excited passengers were fully enlightened as to the true state of affairs, for while questions and — tures were flying thick and fast, the train, after backing rap | for a short distance, now sud- denly slacken . An instant later the air was rent by a series of vociferous yells, while a host of dusky forms, springing up by the road- side, scrambled like wildcats upon the steps of the cars as they neared a standstill. Imagine the consternation of the entrapped excursionists as a band of masked men appeared in their midst, armed to the teeth and evidently bent upon mischief, Ladies cowered in their | seats, clinging tremblingly to escorts, while those of the sterner sex were too greatly astonished to do more than stare blankly at the intruders, Their apathy may have been influenced to some extent by the fact that the new-comers had al- ready brought their weapons to a level, in readi- ness to thwart the slightest attempt at resis- tance, ‘*Hands up, gents! We've got the drop, so there’s no use in kicking. Hands up, I say!” This terse command issued from the lips of a burly mask who had been the first to enter the yresident’s coach, and who was apparently the leader of the band. Needless to say, the unwel- come order was obeyed, each and every man elevating his hands with a promptitude that won a nod of approval from the audacious stranger. **Glad to find you allso tractable, gentlemen,” he exclaimed, with a sneering laugh, as he swag- gered to the center of the car, keenly surveying its terrified occupants with eyes that fairly blazed through the holes in his mask, ‘‘ Doubtless you all believe that ‘discretion is the better part of valor.’ Very good! Such a feeling on your part is very commendable, and will do much to- ward facilitating matters, “I trust you do not resent our intrusion, though it must be admitted that the hour is rather unseemly, and our method of introducing ourselves is to say the least unceremonious. However, having carefully prearranged this meeting, it was not in my heart to let you pass by, though in fact that cursed engineer did come near giving us the slip. So here we are, big as life and twice as natural, and I dare say there’s none of you so thick-witted as to need enlighten- ment in regard to our errand. We are out for the boodle, first, last and all the time, and have selected this crowd *s presenting a most promis- ing field for operations.” The masked leader’s speech was glib, his manner free and easy, yet none who heard his careless words doubted for a moment the deter- mination of the speaker. In obedience to a sig- nal, tworuffians now moved forward from either end of the car, while their companions continued to draw a bead upon the passengers. ‘My faithful assistants will now proceed to take up a contribution, and it is to be hoped you will shell out liberally,” mockingly continued the robber captain, ‘‘ It is quite fair and right, to my mind, that you bloated railway nabobs and swell aristocrats should contribute to the support of poor, deserving fellows like ourselves; and if you will prevail upon yourselves to view the matter in the same light, 1t will perhaps de- prive the dose of mucb of its bitterness, t the same time allow me to impress upon your minds the utter folly of resistance, for my men have you nicely covered, as you may see, and stand ready to blow you to smithereens at a second’s notice,” This caution was quite unnecessary, however, for the members of the president’s party were nothing if not discreet, and the sight of a dozen rifles brought to bear upon their devoted persons instantly put to flight all ideas of opposing the invaders. Quite at the mercy ‘of the daring knights of the road, they sat with uplifted hands resenting od incag Fe of disgust and rage that was fittle short of the ludicrous, At least so it appeared to the robber chief, whose mocking laughtér rung upon the ears of tbe hapless excursionists like that of a veritable fiend, His nefarious followers were already at busily at work deftly going through the pockets of the unresisting passengers, relieving them of money, watches, and otber valuables with a skill and celerity that implied long practice, When this operation was completed, the masked leader strode from the car, followed by several of his men, leaving the remainder to guard the doors, Meantime the occupants of the other cars had had been treated toa similar experience. The road-agents numbered fully two-score, and were thus enabled to seize the ehtire train at the same “time, each car being boarded by a separate squad in pursuance of carefully prearranged plans, Thus it was that when the tall captain strode from car to car, it was to find the several hun- dred passengers under complete subjection, while the work of appropriating their valuables was already well advanced. After satisfying himself that the conquest was complete, and issuing a few orders to his subal- terns, the chief returned to the private car of President Melrose, who, together with his com- panions, was wishing himself well out of his un- pleasant predicament.
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Headlight Harry’s Haul. Cae ns Cy a rie Ss Having yielded up everything of value to the midnight marauders, it was now expected that the latter would immediately withdraw, leaving the train free to continue its way; but, alas! the next movement of the masked leader quickly put these hopes to flight, The train-robbers had by no means completed their dark night’s work—a fact that was speed- ily demonstrated to the luckless excursionists, CHAPTER V. NICK NORMAN CELEBRATES, IT was with the arrogant air of a mighty con- queror that the robber captain re-entered Presi- dent Melrose’s private car, meeting with rare effrontery tbe battery of eyes fixed inquiringly upon him, The travelers still maintained a non- belligerent attitude, sitting with arms pointing heavenward, a picture of abject humility. The spectacle evidently struck the unknown as somewhat ludicrous, for he laughed long and boisterously. “Ha, ha! What a docile crowd, to be sure! And such a distinguished gathering! To think of all the great lurninaries of the R, & 8. R, R. being corraled like sheep ina pen, subject to the wishes of yours truly, once an humble and de- spised employee of this road, but whonow comes into the game with a band full of trumps, prepared to Brice? the board and capture the Be Itreally tickles my vavity to— But, stop! had forgotten, gentlemen, that you are apt to be a trifle sensitive over the matter, and must crave pardon if by chance [ have unwit- tingly wounded your feelings in the exuberance of d glee, “‘{ had returned to announce that my able eorps of collectors have already completed their task, and the result I believe is quite equal to expectations, Roughly estimating the value of your contributions, I should say we are enrich- ed thereby to the extent of several thousand dollars in cool cash, not to mention enough watches, rings and other valuables to start a first-class jewelry establishment, For your generosity in responding to my request for con- tributions, I beg you to accept my expressions of heartfelt gratitude.” And with this the mockin so low that the broad rimo most grazed the floor. ‘*Pray spare your breath and our feelings at the same time, Sir Robber,” ejaculated Maurice Melrose, white from suppressed passion. ‘‘ And pow, having plundered us to your heart’s con- tenf, suppose you go your way and kindly per- mit us to goours! The sooner we are well rid ref tae evil presence, the better we shall like i scoundrel bowed his sombrero al **Indeed!” uttered the masked captain, in no wise abashed by these cutting, words, ‘‘I am exceedingly sorry, my dear Melrose, that I can- not immediately vom with your request. It ‘being but seldom that I find myself in such dis- tinguished company, I am exceedingly loth to tear myself away.’ ‘“ What, then, do you propose to do—keep us sitting here all night?’ demanded Superin- teudent Renwood. ‘Far from it, my friend. You shall be free to depart before the arrival of the second sec- tion, which I am aware was ordered to leave Belmont exactly one hour behind this train,. According to my calculations, it will be some- thing over half an hour befor train number two reaches this point, and in the mean time I pro- pose to treat myself and men to an impromptu - entertainment, for which I have already found abundant material aboard, ** Yon see, gentlemen, I was deterred by pres- sure of business from joining in the great jubilee at Belmont to-day, and knowing this, [ trust you willexcuse me if I insist upon a little celebra- tion of my own. If you are not already sur- feited with amusement, I shall bepleased to have you unbend your official dignity and join in the merrymaking. Now, please step from the car, as the entertainment is about to commence.” There was a geuveral look of bewilderment upon the faces of the passengers, none of whom had the slightest idea of what this audacions _uoknown was driving at, “* What infernal nonsense is this? We shall by no means leave our seats—” began President Melrose, in a towering rage; but, the ominous click—click!” of pistol locks speedily brought him to a pause, and banished all idea of resist- ance from his mind. ‘ Cee will please leave the car, instant- ly!” reiterated the masked leader, sharply; and this time there was no remonstrance. Realizing the wisdom of prompt obedience, the passengers arose with the meekness of lambs _ going tothe slanghter, und the car was cleared in an incredibly short time. Meanwhile the oc- cupants of the other coaches were compelled to join in the general exodus, and so it was that the entire party found themselves huddled beside the track, shivering in the cold night air, and surrounded by a formidable gang of ruffians whose weapons glistened dangorously in the moonlight, At this point the railroad was skirted on one side by a narrow strip of meadow, through which flowed a broad and sluggish stream; and upon this level expanse the robber chief pro- proposed to hold what he was pleased to call bis ** little celebration.” Under his direction the excursionists were quickly arranged in a circle, around the outside of which extended a cordon of outlaws, who stood prepared to enjoy the fun and at the same time frustrate any hostile movement on the part of their reluctant guests, ‘* Now, then, [ reckon everything is in readi- ness for the entertainment, declared the leader, gayly, as he glanced approvingly around. ‘Sorry there are no seats for the ladies; but you must bear in mind that this is quite an im- promptu affair,so much so in fact that it is necessary to draw upon the audience for ma- terial, there being no opportunity to engage other talent for the occasion. Now, let’s see— ah! What have we here? 4A full-fledged, brass- band, sure enough! Well, I don’t object to a little music for a starter. Step out here, you fellows, and show what you can do with the in- struments,” The members of the Richville brass-band were by no means pleased at this peremptory command; on the contrary, they felt exceeding- ly loth to exhibit their skill for the benefit of the scoundrels who had unscrupulously robbed them but a few minutes before. However there was no alternative, so, like the sensible fellows they were, the musicians stepped out and pre- pared to play. The leader of the band was a facetious in- dividual, who looked upon the affair in its ludi- crous light, and resolved to get as much fun as possible out of this disagreeable and unre- munerative task. With rare tact he selected a piece, and immediately the inspiring strains of “* Hail to the Chief” floated upon the clear night air. Loud cries of ‘* Bravo!” greeted the perfor- mance, coming from the lips of the delighted outlaws, while the tall captain doffed his som- brero and gracefully bowed his acknowledg- ments, ‘*Many thanks, gentlemen, both for the music and the compliment conveyed thereby,” he ex- claimed, ‘‘ And now, I must trouble you once more! Give us a lively one, if you please— something that will stir up my sleepy men and a them wide-awake!” he band responded promptly, and again the welkin rung with soul-stirring melody, It was truly an extraordinary scene, and one the like of which was probably never witnessed before or since. Tbe capture of the excursion train and robbery of its passengers was of it- self bold enough; but the subsequent proceed- ings of the marauders implied a degree of au- dacity absolutely without a parallel. The sight of such a distinguished party, embracing rail- way directors and officials, with many impor- tant citizens, not to mention military, civic and musical organizations, all subservient to the extravagant notions of a facetious ruffian, was indeed as ludicrous as it was remarkable, The midnight moon, soaring bigh iv the cloud- less heavens, shed its ghostly radiance upon the earth, revealing on one side the stream-skirted meadrw with a fringe of forest beyond, and on the other a high embankment supporting the track upon which stood the throbbing locomo- tive and a line of brilliantly lighted cars, while in the space between stood several hundred people, men, women, and children, forming a gathering that seemed strangely out of place at such an bour and amid such weird surround- ings. It is safe to assert that a more exasperated collection of human beings never existed than was this particular party of excursionists, Some few were there who looked upon the matter as a huge joke, and welcomed so sensationa] and ee agp a wind-up to the day’s pooaeedings: but these were generally the ones whose pockets had suffered little or nothing from the light- we touch of the train-robbers, _ As for the members of the president’s party, rie were fairly beside themselves with disgust and anger, not so much because of their uniary loss as on account of the humiliating position in which they were placed, However, there was no alternative but to smother their wrath and await the pleasure of the robber chief, which they did with fast increasing impa- tience. * The band ceased playing, and again the de- lighted ruffians united in a burst of hearty applause, which continued until their leader waved his hand for silence. “Well done, my good fellows!” he com- plimented.” I will admit you play very ac- ceptably—much better, in fact, than I anticipat- ed. I should certainly demand an encore, were it not that time is exceedingly limited, and my desire is to give everybody an equal chance. So, you will please clear the stage to make way for the next feature,”—a command which the tired musicians were quite willing to obey. Among the excursionists who had so unex- | pectedly come to grief might be seen a full- fledged company of militia, comprising a set of fine, stalwart young fellows—the pride of Rich- ville—who had cut a brilliant figure in the grand parade, with brand-new uniforms and glittering accouterments, winning no little applause for their neat appearance and perfect military bearing. Very bold and warlike they seemed, then, keeping step to a lively tune, with polished muskets gleaming in the sun, maneuvering with the skill and precison of battle-scarred veterans. But,alas! how deceitful ofttimes are appearances! Behold them, now, encompassed by a horde of armed ruftians, passively accepting the situa- tion without a show of resistance; for, indeed, what could their efforts avail? Their muskets were empty, while the cartridges in their belts were harmless blanks. Bayonets were their only available weapons, and the situation did not warrart the recklessness of opposing these to the death-dealing six-shooters of their captors. { It was this organization that soon attracted the attention of the robber chief, ‘‘ Hello! What have we here?” was his excla- mation. ‘Is it possible that I have the honor of capturing a company of bona fide soldiers? Really, they are a fine-looking set of fellows, and, of course, as brave as they are handsome, Ha, ba! Who commands these blooming dan- dies, if I may ask?” “T am the captain of the company, sir,” faintly responded a dapper youth, who at that moment looked as though he would have gladly forfeited his proud position for the privilege of being a thousand miles away. ‘* You are the captain, eh? Well, be so kind as to step out here,” and the cfticer meekly obeyed. ‘““T am a great admirer of military tactics,” went on the outlaw, suavely. ‘‘ Nothing inter- ests me so much as the evolutions of trained troops, such as I know your men to be. Now, would it trouble you too much to put your com- pany through a few exercises, just to show my benighted savages bow the thing is done?” The polite utterance of the speaker implied a command that was not to be disregarded, and, realizing tbat fact, the officer lost no time in getting his disgusted followers into line. Flour-~ ishing his sword, he made a desperate attempt | to appear at ease as he proceeded to go through the manual of arms, The militia were evidently unaccustomed to drilling under such unfavorable conditions, and the presence of the outlaws seemed to havea demoralizing effect upon their soldiership, They displayed no little nervousness throughout, and gave an exhibition far below their usual stand~ ard, These shortcomings by no means escaped the critical eye of the conductor of ceremonies, ‘*So you call these fellows soldiers, eb?” he said, scornfully. ‘I’m sorry to say that I dis- agree with you. As a street spectacle I dare say they’ll pass muster; but what earthly use would they be on a battle-field? Fellows that lose their heads in the presence of peaceable, law-abiding citizens like ourselves, with no sign of danger, can hardly be an, gaa upon to face a storm of flying cannon-ba “Captain, it is plain that your men were not © cut out for soldiers. They have mistaken their vocation, and it behooves me, as a benefactor of the human race, to set them right. Asan initiatory step, please march them to the bank | of yonder creck, and dump therein all these cumbersome traps—guns, knapsacks, canteens and so on, not forgetting that shining sword o ours!” This startling order fell like a thunderbolt upon the ears of the dapper young officer. . ““Wha—what’s that?” he gasped, hardly be- lieving be had heard aright. “‘There’s no necessity for repeating the com- mand, I reckon, since the dullest. mind to comprehend. I will merely I spoke plainly enough for .
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state that two-score revolvers are now pointing in your direction, and—delays are dangerous, you know!” This opinion was evideutly concurred in by the ill-starred militia, for they needed no more convincing argument. In five minutes every man was minus his costly weapons and accouter- ments, all of which had disappeared within the muddy waters of the stream that flowed a dozen yards away. A more wretched, crestfallen com- pany neyer existed than was the “‘ pride of Rich- ville” at that particular moment. The destruction of the soldiers’ property gave their tormentors no little food for merriment; and none laughed more heartily than the re- doubtable chieftain, who seemed bound to in- | dulge his mischievous propensities to the utmost, Just what his next effort would have been in the way of amusement cannot be determined, for at that moment the proceedings were suddenly in- terrupted. A low, long-drawn whistle reached their ears —welcome sound to the robbers’ weary victims —announcing that the second section of the ex- cursion train was approaching in the distance, “Hal Those fellows are right on time, I see,” ejaculated tde outlaw leader. ‘‘ They will reach this spot within a very few minutes, so it behooves us to clear the track without delay. So, much though I regret to do so, I am forced to pronounce this entertainment at an end. You are now at liberty to resume your seats in the cars, and I would advise you to hustle lively un- less you want to be left behind, for I shall start the train in exactly three minutes.” Needing no second bidding, the excursionists made a headlong rush for the train, and reached their seats in even less than the specified time, their lively movements affording a striking con- @rast to the reluctance with which they had left the cars a few minutes before. In their break-neck haste, no one observed *that a change had taken place in the make-up of ,the train, During the “ entertainment” two of the robbers, acting under instructions from their chief, had run the train to a siding that chanced tobe close by, and shifted it in such a manner that the locomotive was now behind the cars, instead of in its proper position. That the thasked leader had ample reasons for these tac- tics was evident from bis subsequent operations. **T have taken the liberty to borrow your en- gine,” he calmly announced, appearing once more at the door of the parlorcar, ‘I cannot guarantee toreturn it in good condition, for I intend to employ it in a very peculiar manner, and do not care to answer for the consequences, However, if the machine comes to grief, such an affluent corporation as this can easily stand the loss. As for yourselves, you can well spare the engine, for the the generous push I shall give you ought to send you flying into Richville in grand style. “And now, ladies and gentlemen, thanking you once more for the pleasure of your distin- guished ‘society this evening, I will say adieu and leave you to continue your interrupted journey |” Another graceful sweep of his sombrero, and the audacious scoundrel disappeared, while at the same instant the train started with a rush. Then it was that Maurice Melrose suddenly started from his seat with an agonized cry, for at this late moment he had made a most alarm- ing discovery. ** Mabel—my daughter!” he shrieked, ‘* Where is my child? My God! Has she been left be- hind?” The frantic words of the railroad president created a sensation among the other occupants of the coach, for, as they looked bewilderedly from one to another, it was to realize that pretty Mabel Melrose was indeed missing. Amid the eneral confusion and excitement, her absence d until now remained unnoticed, Maurice Melrose fell back with a heavy groan, while over the entire party swept a thrill of dis- may and horror, as they comprehended that the president’s beautiful daughter, the life and joy of them all, had either through accident or treachery been left behind, and was at that mo- ment in the power of the dreaded train-robbers! CHAPTER VI. RIDING TO DOOM. WHEN Headlight Harry regained conscious- ness, after receiving that stunning blow upon the head, he found himself lying upon the floor of, his cab, bound band and foot. The engine was at a standstill, and a tall fellow wearing a mask was perched in the engineer’s seat, seem- o, quite at home in his self-appointed position. nt and dizzy from the blow and subsequent fall, it was some time before his throbbing brain rade beyond is very easy, and’ , aaa $ ye a ¢ 1 j eadlight Harry’s Haul. was sufficiently clear to comprehend what baa | ‘There she comes! Let her go, Tom, and Then he reached the ccnclusion that fjump for your occurred. the train was in the hands of robbers, and in this connection his mind instantly reverted to the meeting with Nick Norman at Belmont that afternoon. So, then, that rascal’s plot, which the engineer had sought in vain to fathom, was for no otber purpose than the capture of the excursion train and robbery of its passengers. That the das- tardly plan had sueceeded there was not tue slightest doubt, and Headlight Harry felt no lit- tle chagrin at the neat way in which he had been fooled while attempting to elude the scoun- drels, His thoughts now reverted to bis late com- | panion, Rufe Ruffle, who had been struck down at the same time by a dastardly blow from be- hind. By twisting bis neck from side to side, he manage to. include the entire cab within bis range of vision, but the effort revealed no sign of the young fireman. Had the brave fellow perished? Headlight Harry’s heart sunk within him at the terrible thought, for it seemed prob- able that such indeed had been his comrade’s fate. Notwithstanding his awkward positioon, the engineer, by keeping eyes and ears wide open, contrived to obtain some idea of what was going on, Thesubsequent operations of the man in the cab, which resulted in bringing the locomotive to the rear of the train, caused him considerable surprise and wonderment, the object of this movement Leing by no means clear to him. It was not long, however, before he received enlightenment on that point. He heard the pas- sengers as they scrambled on board the train again, and a few moments later another masked man leaped into the cab, The new-comer was the robber chief, and Headlight Harry found no difficulty in recognizing the commanding figure of Nick Norman. The latter issued a sharp order to his satellite, the pseudo-engineer, who immediately sprung to the throttle. The engine started with a sud- den jerk and rushed abead at full speed, pushing the long train before it, Favored by a descending grade, it required but a few moments to establish a tremendous speed, and soon, at asignal from the outlaw cap- tain, the locomotive was reversed, while the cars shot ahead with frigktful velocity, leaving * fast-increasing stretch of open track bebind them. As the engine rapidly approached a standstill, Nick Norman turned to the prostrate engineer who had viewed these proceedings in undisguised amazement. Through the holes in bis mask, the robber’s eyes gleamed wickedly as he glared upon his helpless prisoner. ‘Ha! You have come to your senses at last, eh? I’m glad you recovered from that knock on the head in time to enjoy the fun. Pray, what do you think of the situation anyway?” Thus tauntingly spoke the outlaw captain; et without waiting for a response, he contin- ed: > ‘“*T’ve just given your friends a glorious send- off—one they’!l not forget ina hurry. As you are aware, the lite from here to Richville fairly runs down hill, so there will be little loitering along the way. If they are lucky enonghb to keep on the rails, which I am rather inclined to doubt, they will at least receive a shaking up that will Jast them a lifetime. “* And now for you, my bold fellow! If I mis- fake not, you are one of the chaps who tried to effect my capture at Belmont to-day. Again, it was you who nearly succeeded in giving us the slip an hour ago. You are altogether too enter- prising, my dear fellow, and it is my purpose to see that you are less troublesome in the future, You are the only person who knows my iden- tity, and that alone is sufficient reason why I should end your career without delay, ‘*Now, Headlight Harry, I am about to can- cel the debt I owe you. How do you think I shall go about it? Listen! I have seized this engine for your especial benefit, On it you will ride to your destruction. You are of course well aware that another train is now on the way from Bel- mont—in fact, is now almost due at this point. I shall send this locomotive on to meet it! In five minutes you will come together with a crash that will make the very mountains sbake, Where will you be then, my bold fellow?” Coolly, deliberately this fiend in human guise pronounced the doom of his victim, and little wonder that Headlight Harry felt the blood run cold in his veins as he listened to that merciless speech, The engine was at a dead stop now, and sud- denly on the quiet air came the whistle of the approaching train, scarcely a mile away. 4 life,” cried Nick Norman, eagerly. ‘‘ Farewell, my dear fellow, and when you meet Old Nick don’t forget to give him my very best regards?” Again the ‘‘Fleetwing” was set in motion, and as she glided smoothly over the rails Nor- man and bis subordinate leaped hastily from the cab, leaving luckless Headlight Harry to his fate. Standing upon the track and watching the Jone engine until it flashed round a curve and disappeared from view, the robber captain laughed loud and long in ghoulish glee; but had he seen what transpired a moment later, his mirth would have instantly given place to utter astonishment. As Headlight Harry lay helplessly on the floor of the cab, fully comprehending his peril— realizing that his pet machine was swiftly bear- ing him to a horrible doom, yet unable to lift a finger for preservation, be was about to close his eyes and await the awful shock that seemed inevitable, when suddenly— Over the projecting edge of the roof was swung a long, lanky pair of human legs, and down to the floor dropped an individual, at sight of whom the amazed engineer uttered a cry cf gladness, ‘* Rute Ruffle, by thunder!” he ejaculated, “Glad you recognize me, pard, for I’ve be’n banged round so much that I’m afeered my own mother won't know my ugly pictur’,” grimly re- turned the fireman. He quickly checked the speed of the flying engine, then drew a jackknife and cut away the cords that bound his friend, and assisted him to arise. ‘*T had given you up for dead, Rufe,” gasped Headlight Harry. ‘* How in the world came ou—” P ‘“No time to explain now, pard, Give you the whole yarn Jater,” quickly interrupted Rufe Ruffle, ‘‘ There’s work cut out for us now, you bet!” ‘“'Yes, we must take the back track instantly. We are running straight into the Special, and— Heavens! Thereit comes now. It is too late!” Not three minutes had elapsed since Nick Norman dispatched .the ‘‘Fleetwing” on its wild career, so promptly and efficiently did the brave fireman perform his work of res¢tue; but, even then, it seemed too late to avoid the im- pending catastrophe, for as Headlight Harry spoke the approaching train rushed suddenly into sigbt, its great headlight flaring brightly in the darkness. Quickly the ‘* Fleetwing’s” whistle sounded @ succession of short, shrill warning notes; then the two gallant fellows nerved themselves to endure what promised to be one of the most ex- citing periods of their lives, No more could.be done on their part then, for already was their engine coming toa stop. Everything depended upon the engineer of the excursion train, The latter was on, the alert, and madea des- perate attempt to stop his train; but to accom- plish that feat in time to avoid a collision seemed utterly impossible, for the long line of heavily-loaded cars was plunging over the down- grade ata tremendous rate, seeming to defy all efforts tointerrupt its rapid flight. Though fully realizing the horror of the situa- tion, the men aboard the lone engine never for an ivstant quailed before the trying ordeal. While all individual peril might have easil been averted by jumping, no idea of such a sel- fish course was entertained by either, when, by sticking to their posts, it was barely possible to avoid a horrible disaster, involving the lives of hundreds of passengers, Not a word was spoken as, side by side, they stood with eyes fixed anxiously upon the advancing train, There was no need for speech, for. the thoughts of both were the same;—each read the situation at a glance, realizing that the train could not be stopped in time, and that the only hope lay in reversing their own engine and retreating before that on-coming avalanche of destruction, thus lessening the force of the col- lision if, indeed, not evading it entirely. Could this be done? A few seconds more would tell. The ‘* Fleetwing ” moved at a snail’s pace, now—her huge drive-wheels had almost ceased to revolve, but the insatiate monster in front still bounded forward at seemingly undi- minished speed, closing up the intervening space with appalling rapidity. It was an ordeal well calculated to try the nerves of all concerned, Headlight Harry and — Rufe Ruffle stood like marble images, firm in. their resolve to stick to their posts, Not so, however, with the fellows who manned the other engive! They had made a noble effort to
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stop the train, but, failing in this, and face to face with what seemed sure destruction, their courage suddenly deserted them and they sought safety by leaping desperately from the cab, Only a glimpse of their flying forms was seen ere they became swallowed up by the night; yet it was enough to reveal their rash movements to the dismayed crew of the ‘ Fleet- wing.” ** Fools—cowards!” exclaimed Rufe Ruffle. **They have leaped to their own destruction.” At the same instant both become aware that their own engine had come to a dead stop. ‘The moment so eagerly awaited had arrived at last, | but was it not too late? There, right abead, was that fire-breathing monster of destruction, its great Cyclopean eye glaring wickedly upon them. Was it within human power to avert the impending collision, Headlight Harry sprung to work with a will. Even at that trying moment his head was clear and his nerves steady. Over went the lever— open flew the throttle! The driving-wheels spun round and round with lightning-like velocity, but the ponderous iron-horse never moved an inch from its position. ‘Give ’er the sand!” yelled the engineer; and Rufe Ruffle, ever alert, obeyed even as the order was given. ‘* She moves—she moves!” he cried, joyously. “We'll fetch it, sure! Hooray !” and the brave fireman fairly danced in sudden excitement. However, his exultation was short-lived. The ‘* Fleetwing ” moved over the irons slowly at first—so slowly; then faster, faster—yet faster, but alas! too late to escapa her insatiate pursuer, For the heavy train was upon them, now; and, an instant later, there came a thunderous crash as the pursuing engine overtook the fugi- tives, dashing into the tender of the ‘ Fleet- wing ” with awful force! CHAPTER VII. OUTWITTING THE FOE, THE immediate result of the collision was a shock so violent that the crew of the lone en- gine were hurled headlong to the floor, where they lay sor some moments, stunned by the fall and quite oblivious to what was transpiring about them. When at length they recovered their scattered senses, it was to find that, instead of being at the foot of the embankment where they really expected to bring up, they were still flying over the rails at full speed. By little short of a miracle the “ Fleetwing ” had kept the irons, despite that terrific shock; and as the young fellows scrambled to their feet, it was with due appreciation of the rare es luck that had preserved them from a rightful fate, Evidently the excursion train had escaped equally free from injury, for it was seen to be still advancing, though now some distance away, for it was running solely by its own momentum while the ‘‘ Fleetwing” was under a full head of steam and, baving successfully withstood the collision, was now rapidly leaving the train behind. All immediate danger from that direction was now averted, and Headlight Harry at once proceeded to check the wild career of his speed- ing engine, being doubly anxions to accomplish this purpose when he realized that they were rapidly returning to the point where they had left Nick Norman and his rascally gang; for, when the latter dispatched the ‘‘ Fleetwiog ” on its way to meet the yp tenein train, 16 was mainly to cause a wreck and place the second party of excursionists, also, at their mercy. So, then, it was quite probable that the robbers were now hurrying forward, eager to ascertain the result of the dastardly scheme, and none too much time remained in which to prevent the train from falling into their hands, The locomotive was stopped as quickly as pos- sible and sent flying back to where the long train, its momentum finally exhanstea, had just come to a standstill. As the “ Fleetwing ” rolled up, she was instantly surrounded by an excited throng of trainmen and passengers, who assailed the brave crew with an avalanche of ih- quiries. _ Singling out the conductor in charge of the excursion, Headlight Harry uttered a few words of explanation that caused the eyes of that worthy to fairly start from bis head in mingled surprise and terror. “ Anice state of affairs, this is!” he ejacu- lated. ‘‘ What in thunder shall we do to out- _ wit the scoundrels?” * You must return to Belmont without a Headlight Harry’s Haul. moment's delay,” declared the young engineer, promptly. ‘I am sure the gang is near at hand, —they are liable to burst upon us at any minute!” ‘**But, why return?—why not keep on our way and run right through the rascals? They would find hard work to stop us, I reckon.” ‘* Perhaps; but at the same time such a move would only give them a chance to work no little mischief, for if they saw you escaping they would not hesitate to fire a volley into the cars. Remember there are women and children aboard, and if you care anything for their safety you will take the back track without further palaver.” This plain speech was sufficient to convince the conductor of the wisdom of Headlight Harry’s advice, and he at once declared his willingness to act accordingly, ‘Your engineer and fireman were foolish enough to jump. They may have escaped un- barmed, but I doubt it. At any rate we have no time to look for them. Is there any one here competent to pilot this train back to Belmont?’ ‘‘ Here, pard!” and, as the speaker pushed his way through the crowd, he was quickly re- cognized as a regular employee of the company who was enjoying fe pleasure of a ‘‘ day off.” ‘* Hello, Johnsoh! you’re just the man for the place,” exclaimed Headlight Harry, while his face brightened visibly. The new-comer leaped into the cab, with one of the train hands to act as fireman, and, as the bell clanged warningly, there was a rush on the part of the passengers to get aboard. ‘“You will follow us to Belmont, I suppose?” inquired Blake, the conductor, as he swung he the platform of the first car, lantern in band, “Not we! Our duty lies in the opposite di- rection,” firmly responded the gallant young engineer. ‘‘ The first train isat this moment running wild over the down grade toward Rich- ville. Hundreds of lives arein jeopardy. We must overtake and save them—” ‘Howlin’ tomeats!”’ interrupted the shrill voice of Rufe Ruffle. ‘‘ Hyar come the ’tarnal skunks, now! Blame their ugly hides!” His keen eyes had detected the shadowy forms of the outlaws as they hurried round a curve into view, and thus by his vigilance was prevented a complete surprise. The spectacle that met the gaze of the ruffians was scarcely what they bad looked for, hut they quickly comprehended how matters stood and dashed forward yelling vociferously. : The new engineer of the special acted prompt- ly, but he speedly realized. the engrmity of his task when he undertook to start that long line of heavily freighted cars up the ascendant grade, To his horror and disgust the train scarcely moved from its position, For a moment there was a frantic din as the puffing, snorting iron-horse labored furiously at its colossal task, its great drive-wheels slipping, its whole frame quivering from the violence of its efforts, while the exultant outlaws advanced with rapid strides. Then Headlight Harry, abandoning for the present bis original idea of rushing past the enemy, came backing down to the rescue, realizing that one locomotive was in- adequate to the trying occasion. And now two mighty giants were pushing at the refractory line of cars. How’speedily was the situation changed! Slowly the long train moved backward—exasperatingly slow at first, but with an impetus that steadily increased with every passing moment. Even then, it seemed for a time that the fleet- footed pursuers would actually win the race, Spurred on by Nick Norman, who bimself led the chase, they strained every nerve to overtake and capture the retreating engines, But, the crisis was now past, and, as the train gradually got under way, the superiority of steam over buman muscles was quickly demonstrated. Finding themselves outwitted, the outlaws abandoned the chase, sending their compliments in the shape of a rattling volley which fortunate- ly did no damage, : ‘Sold, ag’in!” exclaimed Rufe Ruffle, in high glee over the providential escape of the train, “ Now, what's the next move, pard? Shall we go back through this howlin’ mob an’ try to overtake t’other train?” Headlight Harry merely nodded in reply, as he shut off steam and reversed the lever. It re- quired but a glance at his stern, resolute face to show that he fully realized the peril of the presi- oath party, and would use every effort to aid them. / Meantime, the outlaw band was still hovering near the track, and, when the ** Fleetwing” 4 ; slackened speed, these sharp-eyed rascals dig not fail to observe the fact. Divining the purpose of the daring railroad boys, and determined to thwart them if possible, they dashed down the line at a gait that would have done credit to a one hundred yard sprinter. Consequently, when the locomotive came to a dead stop, and just as Headlight Harry was . about to again send it rushing forward, he was amazed to behold the foremost of the gang as they dashed within the radius of light thrown by the great reflector. That they were dangerously close was seen at a glance; and there was no doubt that they would make a desperate attempt to board the engine as it sped past. ** Trouble abead, Rufe!” cried the engineer, as his steady hand once more sent the ‘‘ Fleetwing” bounding forward. ‘‘ Arm yourself with what- ever comes handy; then lay low and look 6ut for unwelcome Visitors,” While speaking, the engineer felt for the revolver that he always kept in a small locker under bisseat. With this small but serviceable weapon clutched in his good right hand, he felt equal to any emergency. Rufe Ruffle, for want of a better weapon, snatched up his long, heavy fire-poker, and, brandishing this, declared his willingness to cope with any number of outlaws. ** Ready to repel boarders!” he shouted reck- lessly. . ‘‘ Howlin’ tomeats! but this is a great night for scrimmages, an’ no mistake. Bring on yer ’tarnal gang an’ see me make ’em tired! Whoop -ee!” P Crouching low to escape pistol-shots, the gal- lant fellows waited with remarkable coolness until the ‘‘Fleetwing” flashed into the very midst of the robbers, The latter kad sprung to either side of the track, and now, as the engine sped by at moder- ate speed, there was a desperate effort on the part of several to jump aboard. The attempt could not be called a signal success, as the majority of the fellows received only a severe shaking up and a plunge down the embankment as a reward for their zeal, A few, however, either more agile or more fortunate than their comrades, managed to gain a foothold on the steps of the cab, and fora time made matters interesting for the plucky young defenders, The latter were somewhat disconcerted at. sight of four burly ruffians climbing into the cab, but they had prepared themselves to enter- tain visitors, and lost no time in giving them a warm reception. The outlaws who appeared on the engineer’s side of the locomotive were greeted by a storm of lead from Headlight Harry’s trusty six- shooter, which, though delivered hurriedly, could not be otherwise than effective at such close quarters, One fellow, badly wounded, fell back and Uisappeared from sight, yelling in pain and terror; bis companion, after receiving a bullet in bis right arm and another through bis cheek, concluded that the vicinity was too hot for safety, and, turning, leaped precipitately from the cab. While the fearless engineer was thus uncere- moniously disposing of bis assailants, Rufe Ruffle found his own attention fully occupied, Grasping the lovg poker 4s if it were a lance, he made a vicious lunge at the first outlaw whose bead appeared above the footboards, Probably that fellow never realized what struck bim, for, as the end of the novel weapon , caught bim fairly under the chin, he shot back out of sight like a stone from a catapult. The remaining ruffian, meantime, found tinne to draw a weapon and level it at the head of the brave fireman, whodiscovered his peril just in time to duck bis head and thus avoid the speed- ing bullet, which even then flew close enough to perforate his cap. Before a second shot could be fired, Rufe. re- covered himself and brought his formidable weapon to bear upon the foe. Struck squarely in the breast, the latter was lifted from his feet and hurled backward with terrific force, while the pistol fell harmlessly from his hand. He was partially stunned by the fall, and before he could arise the agile fireman pounced upon bim like a cat upon a depredatory rodent. ‘ Kick away, ye durned skunk! I reckon you calied at the wrong house, this time, cuss ye!” panted Rufe, finding little difficulty in subduin the feeble efforts of the half-dazed ruffian. “ say, pard, I’ve got a prisoner Lend a hand with a rope, or somethin’, till I make the blamed critter fast.” Headlight Harry hastened to bis comrade’s aid, and, utilizing the same cords with which he had himself been recently bound, he soon had
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the fallen outlaw secured beyond all possibility of further resistance, ‘*Humph! I was confident of beating off the gang, but really I didn’t count on taking a prisoner,” exciaimed the engineer, regarding the pinioned ruffian with interest. ‘‘ Drag the scoundrel into the light, and let’s see what he looks like whe. divested of that infernal mask,” The movement was immediately executed, and as the disguise fell from the captive’s face, the railroad partis both gave a start of recogni- tion, ‘*Sneaky Sam, by thunder!” fell from the fireman’s lips. “Tt is, indeed, the illustrious Samuel,” averred Headlight Harry, ‘id swear to his handsome mug, any where.” They recognized in the so-called Sneaky Sam a@ roving young vagabond who frequently ap- “peared in Richville and vicinity, He enjoyed an unsavo: y reputation in the community, hav- ing served time for various minor offenses, and was generally regarded as capable of any man- ner of villainy. His wasa brutal, hangdog face—an unmis- takable index to the character within; and, as he glared uuflinchingly at his captors, his small, twinkling eyes glowed with all the subtle venom of a lurking reptile. **So, Sneaky Samuel has turned train-robber, eh?” ejaculated the fireman, after a) brief silence, ‘““Shoot my cat if I ain’t surprised! Never thought he had the spunk—robbin’ ben-roosts is more in bis line!” ‘Tf all of Nick Norman’s satellites are of like caliber, that individual is to be congratulated upon bringing together a choice collection of rascality. It’s just such scamps as Sneaky Sam “that require the closest watching. However, I an this escapade wiil settle bis career for ‘ood, ‘What d’ye propose to do with the pesky galoot, now that we have hirn corraled? pred throw him off the bank, body, bones and breeches. He’ll never be missed, I reckon.” ‘*We would scarcely be justified in such pro- ceeding,” objected the young engineer, laughing at his pard’s grim suggestion. ‘‘I think we ean find a batter use for the fellow presently, - He possesses a mine of knowledgo regarding Nick Norman’s band that, if properly worked, will yield valuable information. Just, now, however, we have no time tp bother with him; so we'll tuck bim gently away in the tender until we are ready for business,” “Plaguey little information ye'll get outer that feller, if Il read him right,” declared Rufe, with a glance at the scowling face of the pris- oner, ‘* Well, that we shall see in duetime, There are ways of loosening the most stubborn tongues, and I fancy this chap will prove susceptible to the influence brought to bear upon him,” re- turned*Headlight Harry, confidently. Without further talk the captive was dragged into the tender and deposited on the wood-pile, in which uncomfortable position he was left to his own reflections, while the others turned their a to the more important work before them. Meanwhile, the ‘““Fleetwing” was speeding along ata lively rate. Nick Norman’s rascally gang was long since left behind, and from them there was nothing more to fear, Thanks to the desperate efforts of the railroad pards, the out- laws’ designs against the second train bad been happily frustrated; it now remained to succor ¢ those who, less fortungte, had already fallen victims to their fiendish malice. Realizing that a long and exciting chase was before them, the brave fellows now lapsed into silence, intently watching the track ahead as the great iron-horse rushed madly on its mis- sion of rescue. CHAPTER VIII. 4 FROM THE FRYINGPAN INTO THE FIRE. CONSTERNATION seized upon the occupants of President Melrose’s private coach, as the dread truth dawned upon them that beautiful Mabel, the light and joy of the party, bad, in some un- ve pa manner, been spirited from their midst. Maurice Melrose had fallen back in his cush- ioned seat, utterly overwhelmed by sudden sor- row, while his friends, ary less affected, gathered solicitously about him, extending tender words of sympathy. ‘Ob, Mabel, my chili! May Heaven pre- serve ber from the clutches of those ruffianly scoundrels!” groaned ‘he grief-stricken mag- te nate. i “ Cheer up, sir! Things may not be so serious Headlight Harry’s Haul as they seem,” encouraged Superintendent Ren- wood, to whose sanguine miud a sudden idea had oecurred, ‘‘ There is room for hope that your daughter is still safe.” ** Safe?” “ Yes; it is quite possible that she, becoming separated from us in that mad scramble for the train, has found her way into another coach. I will go at once and ascertain if such is, indeed, the case.” Like a ray of sunlight through a lowering cloud came these cheering words to the tortured mind of President Melrose. Eagerly he strug- gied to his feet. ‘* Your solution isa plausible one, Ranwood, God grant it is correct!” he cried fervently. ** Come, I will join you in the search. Lat ma hasten!” The magnate’s portly frame fairly shook with excitement as he burried from the car, accom- panied by Ralph Renwood and several other gentlemen. Alas! for their new-born hopes. Though they traversed the entire length of the train, it was only to find that Mable Melrose was not aboard, nor could any one be fouad who could throwa gleam of light upon the mystery of her sudden disappearance, Bitterly disappointed, the searchers retraced their steps; hope had yieldéd again to dark de- “sfair. No doubt remained, now, that the poor girl had fallen into the power of that arch-vil- lain, Nick Norman. Maurice Melrose buried his face in his hands and wept like a child. ‘*Poor girl! I fear I shall never see her sweet face again,” be sobbed. ‘* Alas! that I should have lived to see this evil hour,” “Do not give way to despair, Mr. Melrosa,” urged Rilpb Renwood, earnestly, ‘‘ Rest as- sured, sir, your daughter shall soon be restored to you. My first act after teaching Richville will be to organize a strong party to pursue and punish those secundrels, They shall pay dearly for their dark nig it’s work.” Thus, with words of encouragement, his friends sought to cheer the afflicted president, but with little success, He fairly idolized his beautiful daugbter, and this was a blow too severe to be easily overcome. He abandoned himself to despondency and refused to be com- forted. ; Meantime, during the excitement attending the discovery of Mabel’s absence, the occupants of the coach had given heed to nothing else; but, now the rocking, swaying motion of the train reminded them that they were being borne onward at a reckless speed, without the control- ling hand of an engineer to guide them. his knowledgeat first caused little anxiety, for no one realized then the magnitude of the new danger that menaced the ill-starred train, Even Ralph Renwood, experienced railroad man that be was, felt quite at ease in this novel position. He was confident that, by using the powerful hand-breaks, the train might be easily kept undér control and brought safely intoRich- ville. As the speed already attained seemed rather faster than was consistent with perfect safety, the superintendent resolved to test the efficiency of the brakes without delay; but in so doing he mre a discovery as unwelcome as it was start- ng. Stepping out upon the front platform, he at~ tempted to“ set up” the brake, only to find such a feat impossible, for the brake-chain had some- how become disconrected, thus rendering the en- tire appliance useless, Investigation showed that every brake on the train was stmilarly crippled. Here, then, was fresh evidence of Nick Norman’s fiendish cun- ning. Having determined upon giving his vic- tims a long-to-be-remembered ride, he had taken, every possible precaution to prevent them from terminating che trip quicker than he intended, During the recent stop some of his villainous gang had found time to cripple all the brakes, thus placing the train without the slightest con- trolling power, This unlooked-for discovery lent a decidedly different aspect to the situation, and caused Superintendent Renwood’s confidence to give place to deep concern, as he realized that the train with its hundreds of passengers was abso- lutely beyond buman control—a mere plaything in the hands of Fate. Truly, the situation was calculated to appall the stoutest heart. ichville was over twenty miles away, and the intervening track ran for the most ‘part over a descending grade, as it wound gradually among the hills and thence down into the valley of Mad River, where the main line was reached, The train was already running very swiftly, thanks to the energetic — send-off given by the ‘* Fieetwing” while under the outlaws’ control. What, then, would be its probable velocity after plunging uninterrupted- ly over twenty miles of down grade? The pros- pect was appalling! Even now the speed was perceptibly increasing. The long line of cars lurched and jolted at an alarming rate. Would not the spinning wheels leap from the rails, and the ill-fated train go whirling down the steep embankment, hurling its passengers into a chaos of death and destruction? The majority of the excursionists were for some time ignorant of their true predicament, being too jubilant at their escape from the rob- bers to comprehend that they had but jumped from the fryingpan into the fire, Some, even, were unaware that the locomotive was not still in its proper place at the head of the train; and, when the cars commenced to rock violently from side to side, some of the blissfully ignorant who had settled themselves down for a nap crossly expressed their private opinion of an en- gineer who would ignore the peace and comfort of his passengers in his own anxiety to get home. But before many minutes had elapsed the would-be sleepers were awakened to a true sense of their position, and the knowledge was suf- ficient to speedily banish all thoughts of slumber from their minds, Indeed, as the moments flew by, and the velocity of the train steadily increased, the passengers became wrought to the highest pitch.of excitement. Superintendent Renwood was the coolest man on board in this time of peril, and he at once ex- oan! erted himself to avert the panic that now seemed Weise | haut imminent among the affrighted excursionists. Tait Hurrying from coach to coach, he urged the (gad) occupants to remain quietly in their seats, as- cr suring them that no particular danger was to be ys t feared, ‘oad ps ‘““Only a few miles remain before reaching the: | i the heavy, adverse grades that are beyond,” he me | stay declared, ‘‘ Let us once reach that point, and Ae the momentum of the train will soon be ex- 2d bausted,” oe ie The cheering words and confident manner of Se & the young superintendent served to quiet the i, 2 passengers, and in a measure allayed their fears. However, Renwood’s air of confidence was but assumed, to conceal from them his real eek % anxiety. Inwardly he felt that it was indeed ais He doubtful if the point so hopefully looked for- | jf ward to would ever be reached. Running at eae |g hg e2 ay TR eae such a tremendous speed, the cars were liableto = jump the track at any moment. rey it was with grave apprehensions that he re- eo traced his steps to the forward coach, and j | mingled with a group of friends who stood by vac) Jn the door, anxiously observing the dizzy flight of the train, and making no attempt to disguise. their increasing alarm. President Melrose was the only man in the , opie who appeared wholly indifferent in the ~ ace of this awful danger. He sat with bowed = |_— head, too intent upon thoughts of his lost daugh- ee ter to heed his own imminent peril. i What a thrilling spectacle it was—that guide- less train, freighted with hundreds of helpless people, plunging madly on its dangerous way, an rocking, swaying, lurcbing, scarcely seemingto == touch the rails as it flew along, gaining ime creased velocity with every passing moment! ee! Re High in the starlit heavens soared the moon, ae illuminating the earth with its tender radiance, a oe dancing fantastically on the glistening rails, | and bringing into sharp relief the many objects qe that sprung up eee cee way, seeming to mock the misery of the benigbted travelers as they i: flitted past. ae Within tho brilliantly lighted cars, sorecently = = | the scene of mirth and revelry, how marked _ ‘ae now was the change! ‘be confidence inspired =) by Superintendent Renwood was of but brief = || duration; foras the speed of the train increased, var.) am so did the terror of the passengers. Children screamed in fright, ladies clun hy age to their escorts, while some swooned away, adding to the general excitement. Strong men sat = || with pale faces and bated breath, awed into = =} silence by a sengeof deadly danger,momentarily = = )_— expecting to be plunged down the steepembank- | ment to a horrible death. Pe a They were banging upon the very verge ofde- = = | _— struction; yet moment succeeded moment, and . still the whirling wheels clung to the rails by By little short of a miracle. Truly, it was an expe- rience never to be forgotten by the pereciae ; should they be so fortunate as to survive th ie wild night's ride, Bes But each passing minute, fraught with untold =} i misery to the terror-stricken excursionists, was Barer drawing them nearer to possible salvation. , perintendent Renwood was attentively wate i j . af ‘Sh, 4: 1 a
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» grade that exists several miles beyond.” Headlight Harry’s Haul. the train’s swift progress, and presently his face brightened with rekindled hope. ‘* The worst is now over,” he declared. ‘‘ We have reached the end of the down grade, and the remaining distance to Richville is on a dead level; so, as we have managed to keep on the track thus far, there is little fear that we shall not continue to do so,” Those who were acquainted with the charac- teristics of the line knew that Renwood was cor- rect in bis calcalations, and all breathed more freely in the belief that danger was in a large degree averted. On rushed the train, showing as yet no abate- ment in velocity; and soon the lights of Rich- | ville were seen twinkling brightly in the dis- | tance, ‘*Humph! there’s little prospect of stopping at the station, Limagine, judging by the way we | are still flying along,” grumbled one of the di- rectors, in disgust. ‘* You will be greatly disappointed if you ex- | pect to do so,” returned Ralph Renwood, smi!- ing. ‘*Weshall bowl through the town at a | lively rate,and probably will not come to a | dead stop until-after encountering the rising | ** And then, barring further accidents, I sup- pose we muy expect to reach our homes in time for an early breakfast. Oh, this is an enjoyable pleasure-trip and no mistake!” growled tha other, surlily; for now that safety seemed as- sured, he lost no time in relieving his over- charged feelings, Tbe Belmont Branch connected with the main line at a point several hundred yards from the Richville station; and as the train rapidly drew nearer, those on board were seized with a sudden | apprehension lest the switch should not be set so as to allow their passagejonto the main line. True, there was a night switchman who should be on the lookout for the returning excursion- train; but it was possible that be bad forgotten it amid the pressure of numerous other duties. | curious to learn how you contrived to escape Happily the fears of the party inthis case prov- | ed ill-founded, for the gleaming red light of the | switchman was svon observed,marking the course | of that worthy as he hastened toward the switch, tle was a wide awake fellow, and was momentarily es | the arrival of the over- due excursion-train; but when it at length ap- peared, engineless and running like the wind, there was no limit to hisamazement. To com- prebend the meaning of it all was utterly beyond bis ken, but he understood that the train was uncontrollable, and immediately did the wisest thing possible under the trying circumstances— threw the switch and allowed the long line of cars to thunder past, Once more the passengers breathed freely as they found themselves safely on the main line; but, alas! their exultance was of short duration. As they flashed through the sleeping town and out into the country again, Superintendent Ren- wood suddenly gripped the arm of bis nearest companion, while his handsome face grew pale, “My God! We are running straight into new peril!” he cried, excitedly, **Why, what do you mean?” “The Night Express, going west, is due at Richville at 1:40. It is now just half-past one,” with a hasty glance at hiswatcb. ‘‘ {n ten min- utes that train will be bere, and we—are direct- ly in its path!” ‘* Heavens! Is there no way to avert the im- pending collision? Have we escaped manifold | dangers only to meet death from an unexpected source?” ‘* Alas! I see no way to avoid the meeting, un- less, by some good fortune, the Express has been delayed, Only let it be a few minutes benind | time, and we can save our train, I fervently | hope such will prove to be the case.” But at that very instant,as if to mock the | hopes of the speaker, a sound was heard that | feil like a death-knell on the ears of the passen- | gers, It was the wierd, far-away whistle of the Night Express! ey Me CHAPTER TX. THE RAILROAD PARDS, WHILE the masteriess excursion-train was rushing on to seeming destruction, anotier wild | race was taking place over the same course and under seurcaly lows tbrilling circumstances, | A ponderous locomotive was flashing over the irons, like some huge fire-breathing monster, its great headlight flaring, its drive-wheels revolv- ing like lightning, its entire frame quivering with the pent-up energy tbat was within— frightening night-birds into flight with its screeching whistle, and sending a shower of sparks in its wake as it fairly flew along. Side by sidein the swaying cab, with eyes | precautions them fellers were takin’ that you 9 fixed eagerly upon the track ahead, two men stood like figures of stone. The light that shone through the open fire-box door illumined their smoke-begrimed and dust-stained faces, and at the same time revealed the look of firm resolve that was plainly written thereon. Theirs was a self-appointed mission, and its object was the preservation of hundreds cf pre- | cious lives believed to be at that moment in im- minent peril, Would they succeed? The excur- sion-train had fully tweuty minutes’ start, and this was a time when every moment was of | priceless value. However, tke railroad pards entertained hopes that the excursionists had contrived to stop their train, or at least reduced its speed beyond | possibility of danger. Of course they were quite | unaware that the brakes of the cars bad been | tampered with and rendered useless, else they | would not have for an instant cherished such an | idea. In absence of such knowledge, they half | expected every turn in the road would bring the looked-for train into sight, and this ina measure hampered their progress, for Headlight | Harry dared not run fast around the frequent | curves lest a collision should be the result. So | the “‘Fleetwing” was kept at a much lower speed than would have been the case had the engineer been sure of the train’s exact where- abouts. Nevertheless, by putting on extra bursts of | speed whenever a straight stretch of track was encountered, this disadvantage was in some degree atoned for, and mile after mile was rapidly left behind, “*IT say, Rufe,” exclaimed the engineer to his companion, as they rushed along, ‘‘ you have never explained the mystery of your presence on the roof of this cab a short time since, I am from the hands of the Philistines, and come so opportunaly to my rescue. This is a favorable time for you to vouchsafe a few words of en- lightenment,” ‘* Weil, pard, I reckon it’s a yarn that won't take long to tell,” returned the young fireman. * Ye see, I was a-standin’ in the cab here, when the first thing I knew I didn’t know nothin’, It was a stunnin’ clip on the back o’ the head that laid me out, I expect, for when I opened my eyes ag’in, my noddle-box felt as if it had just run against the bizness end of a mule. The old engine and everything on it seemed to be whirlin’ round like a top, and it was some time before I could make out just how matters stood, Finally, I discovered you stretched out on the! floor, with two blamed galoots in masks bending over you, in the act of tying you hand and foot with stout cords, You were even worse bit than I was, I reckon, for you had not yet recovered consciousness; but I knew by the were alive and expected to come to most any minnit. Well, [ had no doubt that the outlaws were intending to perform a like service for me, so I instantly determined to save ’em the bother, not hankerin’ particularly for sich an unpleas- ant situation. ‘* T rolled over, jumped to my feet, an’ before the astonished robbers could lift a finger to pre- vent, I vanished from their sight like a beauti- ful vision, The ‘ Fleetwing’ was runnin’ very slowly, then, else 1 probably wouldn’t be here to tell. the story, for I jumped without the least idea of where I was goin’ to land, or whether I would strike on my head or my feet. As it was, I rolled down the bank like a berrel rollin’ down hill, tearin’ up the gravel at a great rate, an’ finally bringin’ up all in a heap at the bot- tom. After spendin’ several minutes pullin’ myself together an’ breathin’ in a fresh supply of wind, which same had been well nigh knocked outer me, I crawled to the top of tke embankment an’ looked ’round for the train. “Tt had come to a stop a few bundred yards | wendy f and, bein’ by no means inclined to desert | my friends, | immediately burried in that direc- tion, Skulkin’ along in the dense bushes that fringed the way, I was soon ‘longside the train, to find it entirely in the bands of the outlaws, who were just then goin’ through the passen- gers after the most approved fashion. Thinkin’ that in the general confusion I might get a chance to set you at liberty, I sneaked up beside the engine, but was disappointed to find the two outlaws still there oun op the alert, As I crouched there in the darkness and closely watched the scoundrels, I was strongly tempted to spring into the cab an’ tackle ’em, single- handed, despite the fact that they were armed to the teeth; but a moment of reflection con- vinced me that such a move would de disas- trous. So I waited an’ waited, vainly hopin’ the fellers would leave the engine, unti! finally | the tender, fortunately without detection, they commenced to shift the train about. Then convinced that the infernal skunks were up to some dirty trick, and determined to stick as close to you as possible until a favorable mo- ment for action arrived, I crept over the side of Seiz- ing the first opportunity, I made my way from there to the roof of the cab, which, under the circumstances, I considered the safest place of concealment, There I remained until the train- robbers sent the ‘ Fleetwing’ off at full speed to meet the second section of the excursion, carry- ing you with it to what they planned to bea horrible fate, ** When Nick Norman an’ bis pards lit out, I allowed twas high time for me to come down from my lofty perch. So, down I come! I reckon Old Nick ’ll never cease to wonder how it was that his plans failed to materialize. Ha, | ba!” Rufe Ruffle chuckled gleefully as be pictured the probable discomfiture of the outlaws when they found their diabolical scheme had mis- carried. He was joined by Headlight Harry, who bad remained an attentive listener to his friend’s llvely narrative, though never for an instant allowing his gaze to wander from the track ahead. ‘* Rufe, you are a jewel!” exclaimed the young engineer, warmly. ‘‘ But for your courege and promptitude, Nick Norman’s vile machinations , would have surely succeeded, and a horrible | catastrophe involving the lives of hundreds of | people would have been the inevitable result. As for my humble self, bearing the very brunt of the shock, I imagine there would bave been scarcely enough left to warrant the holding of funeral services,” ‘*Ob, come’ off, now! Don’t be making out that I’ve done anything remarkable, ‘cause I havn't. What I done was easy enuff, an’ might be expected from any durn fool under similar circumstances. But I say, Harry,” went on Rufe ‘Ri ffle, earnestly, ‘‘there’s nothin’ in the | world that I wouldn’t do, no danger under the | sun that I wouldn’t brave in your behalf. We are called the railroad pards, an’ by Jerusalem! we'll stick to each other through thick and thin, Ain’t that the way to talk perd?” ‘‘Spoken like the brave, fearless fellow you are, Rufe!” cried Headlight Harry, his eyes glistening with a suspicious moisture, ‘* You are indeed a friend to be relied pon to the very last, Give me your band, pard!’ The hands of the gallant railroad boys met in a hearty clasp. Long and constant companion- ship, with a mutual sbaring of the joys and sorrows, the toi] and danger, of ‘their eventful lives, had drawn them together in bonds of friendship that deatb alone could sever, Well, pard,” said the fireman, after a brief pause,” the ‘Fleetwing’ is makin’ pretty good time, but we don’t seem to get much closer to the train, I expected to catch sight of it some time ago, but somehcw or other my expectations don’t seem to pan out worth a cent,” ‘* For which there can be Lut one explanation, { fear,” returned Headlight Harry, dubiously. “There are plenty of brave and experienced railroad men aboard the train, and I was.con- fident they would soon bring it to a stop, pro- vided as they are with excellent band brake2; but the fact that we have not already overtaken them is proof enough, to my mind, that the brakes have failed to work, and consequently the train is now running beyond control.” ‘In that case, then, they cannot stop until after striking the heavy grade beyond Rich- ville.” I bave serious doubts if they ever reach Rich- ville, for the chances are that the cars will jamp the irons and bring up ina heap at the foot of the embankment.” “Great Scott! [hope it won’t be so bad as that. ButI say, pard, even if the train sticks to the rails, there is danger of running into an open switch at Richville station, in which case things would be scattered round rather promis- cuously.” “‘ You are right, Rufe; and, what’s worse yet even should the excursionists escape the peril you mention and reach the main line in safety, it will be only to face difficulties of an equally serious nature,” exclaimed the yourg engineer, impressively. “ What d’ye mean, pard?” “Why. man, the Night Express running west is due at Richville at 1:40, and it now Jacks but twenty-five minutes of that time, UnlessI am entirely wrong in mv calculations, the excursion- train will pass Richville station just in time to collide with the Express,” Rufe Ruffle stood aghast as this new phase of the situation was revealed to him, pata er 5S wear CNSR are SS rome 6 se pel ~~ St a a Sete >
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10 Headlight Harry’s Haul. ‘Skin my cat, if this ain’t a pretty fix!” he ejaculated. ‘‘ Them excursion folks seem to be in a box, no matter how ye kin fix it, They kin think ’emselves durn lucky if they get off with whole hides.” ‘They are, indeed, in imminent peril, and I fear lives will be sacrificed ere this wild pvight’s work is ended. However, there is a slight chance left to save them, if we can get speed enough out of the ‘ Fleetwing * to overtake the train before it passes Richville.” ** An’ to do that ’Il require more energy than the ole gal has ever shown yet, I reckon. How- sumdever, there’s no tellin’? what she may do when pushed to it.” “The ‘Fleetwing’ is one of the very best ma- chines on the road to-day,” asserted Headlight Harry, enthusiastically. ‘She has never been required to show her full powers yet. This is a good time to demonstrate her running qual- ities.” He had increased the speed of bis engine im- mediately ‘upon reaching. the conclusion that there was no longer any probability of finding the train at a standstill. True, there was still a chance that such might prove to be the case, but so slight was it that the engineer felt justi- | fied in taking the ri:k. The “* Fleetwing” was now tearing over the irons at a wonderful rate, and every revolution of the huge driving-wheels served to increase her velocity. But the railroad pards wore grave faces as they considered the enormity of the task which they had set themselves to perform. ‘* Here’s Clark’s Siding!” cried Rufe Ruffle, as the locomotive clattered over aswitch. ‘Just nineteen miles to Richville depot! How much time have we left, pard?” ‘* A trifle over twenty minutes,” ‘*That means, then, to beat the Express we must maintain an average speed of almost a mile a minute.” * Exactly, Rufe; and I’m confident the feat can be accomplished, Keep her well fired-up, pard, and [’ll wager the old machine ’ll prove equal to the emergency.” ‘** But how about the train? There’s no tellin’ how many miles ahead it may be,” persisted the fireman. ‘* We may succeed in gettin’ to Rich- ville in less than twenty minutes, but still be unable to overtake the train.” ‘*Then the latter must be running at a speed far exceeding my calculations. Of course we don’t know bow much of a lead the train pos- sesses, nor can we determine its present rate of progress; still we can make a pretty accurate estimate of both.” “ Ho w ” ‘ ‘* Well, when we started in pursuit of the train we were not more than twenty minutes behind. Of course their speed was but moderate at first, while ours has been quite fast, soit is safe to presume that at the present moment we have reduced the lead to ten minutes.” “That's quite likely, I reckon,” assented Rufe. ‘* Now for their present rate of progress,” the young engineer wenton. ‘ Over this descending rad4 the train may be running forty miles an ovr, though I think we might safely call it several miles less, However, we will say that the train’s ten minute lead is equivalent to not more than six miles. Now, figuring our own speed at sixty miles an hour, we are running three miles to less than two for the train, and at that rate will certainly win the race.” Rufe Ruffle remained silent for several mo- ments, scratching his head thoughtfully. ‘* Seems to me, pard,” he at length exclaimed, **yvour figurin’ don’t allow much margin in case of a possible miscalculation, Seein’ your esti- mate is based entirely on supposition, let’s do a little more s’posin’. Sposin’ the train is a mile or two furtherin advance than you reckoned on, or s’posin’ it’s runnin’ a little faster than expected, —wouldn’t that knock your calculations into smithereens, hey?” Headlight Harry smiled faintly, not at all dis- concerted by his comrade’s argument. ‘“*T think I have over-estimated rather than under-estimated the progress of the train,” he returned, confidently. ‘‘ However, I mean to guard against the possibility you have just sug- gested.” “In what way?” ‘“ Why, by getting as much speed as possible out of the ‘ Fleetwing’ above the sixty miles an hour that I counted upon, If I can coax the machine up to sixty-five or seventy, the result of this race will soon be a dead certainty. “Seventy miles an hour!” cried the fireman, in amazement. ‘* Why, pard, you must be crazy to think of it!” Oh, no, Rufe! Notcrazy, butsimply resolv- ¢d to save that train at all hazards, I'll run the ‘Fleetwing’ to her utmost capacity, if necessary, but the excursionists must be-—shall be—over- taken!” “Unless we jump the track, ourselvos, an’ bring up in Kingdom Come,” retorted Rufe Ruffle, grimly, as he turned to replenish the seething fires of the madly rushing iron-horse, CHAPTER X, TO THE RESCUE, On, on, like a blazing meteor sped that lone engine through the moonlit night—trembling, throbbing, swayinz, lurching—eve y inch of its massive frame | around a turn in the track. endowed with life and energy asit flew along in | obedience to the will of its resolute master, entering with seemingly human zeal and intelligence upon a | race that was destined to eclipse all previous per- formances in local railway history. Away, away with a velocity that increased with every fleeting moment, plunging into a darksome forest here, flash- ing across a moonlit meadow there, darting through | rock-bound ravines, thundering over lofty bridges— | on, on, with rattle and clatter and rumble and roar, awakening weird echoes among the neighboring hills as it rushed, unrestrained, on its mad career. To the brave railroad pards who were voluntary participants in that exciting ride, it was an experi- | ence that time could neve efface from memory. It | would, indeed, be a difficult task to depict their va- ried sensations at finding themselves borne along at a speed that almost took their breath away, and half-expecting each moment to be buried down the steep embankment to certain destruction; yet, in that hour of peril, the hope of saving the excursion- train rose paramount to all thoughts of personal | safety. Great as must have been their anxiety, not un- mixed with fear, as tothe outcome of that desperate undertaking, there was naught in their stern, reso- lute faces to betray it beaver to replenish the seething, roaring fires that glowed within the heart of the speeding iron-horse, performing bis arduous task with as much coolness as if ‘firing up” for an ordinary run; while Head- light Harry stood like acarven image, one hand resting on the throttle lever, as through the narrow window in front he looked wistfully for the light of the runaway train. Suddenly, however, he turned and beckoned the industrious fireman to come nearer: ‘*Rufus, old fellow, we are making good time,’’ he exclaimed, complacently. ‘““Humph! It don’t need no oracle to tell that, I reckon,” retorted Rufe, as just then the engine swung round a sharp curve with a lurch that caused the occupants of the cab to c-me together with no little force. **The ‘Fleetwing ’ is doing herssIf proud, and no mistake. I had no idea the old girl could kick up her heels so lively. How fast d’ye think we are trav- eling, Rufe?’ ’ “Dunno. I'd give a dollar to know, though.”’ “Then the dollar is mine; for I can soon tell, with a little assistance from you. Just clap your weather eye upon that line of telegraph-poles and begin to count them when I say the word. Understand?”’ ““T catch the ijee,’’ returned Rufe Ruffle, and he immediately took fe a favorable position while the engineer consulted his watch. of ‘Ready, now! Begin!” cried Headlight Harry; and then the fireman entered upon the task of enu- merating the poles as they flew by. Thanks to the radiant moonlight, objects near the track could be distinctly seen, yet, so terrific was the speed of the engine that Rufe found his mental powers severely taxed to keep up with the endless procession of gaunt, bare poles that danced past in bewildering succession. “Time's up!’’ Headlight Harry announced, final ly, much to bis companion’s relief. ‘‘How many poles did you make?”’ ‘““A hundred an’ ninety-eight, though I reckon I must ’a’ skipped afew they went by so pesky fast.” “One hundred and ninety-eight potas in three minutes. That’s the firs: point in our calculations. Now, those posts are supposed to be one hundred feet apart, or, fifty-two and eight-tenths to a mile; so, then, the hundred and ninety-eight poles just passed represent a distance of three and three- quarters miles. Figuring on that basis we are now slipping over the irons at the rate of—ler’s see— Great Cesar! Seventy-five miles an hour! How does that strike you, pard?”’ Rufe Ruffle stood open-mouthed, quite dum- founded at the result of his comrade’s calculations. “Seventy-five miles an hour!’’ he ejaculated, at | length recovering the use of his tongue. ‘*Im- possible! Why, pard, ye must be a leetle off in your reckonin’.”’ * Well, then, figure it yourself.”’ “No; I'll take your word for it. pard. I don’t kear to rassie with figgers. But who'd ’a’ thought the ‘Fleetwing’ could cut up such a caper, when the best we ever run her before was under forty- five. Seventy-five miles an hour? Gee-whillikins! The very thought of it makes me dizzy!’ “Tam scarcely Jess astonished myself, pard,” averred the young engineer. ‘‘We are makin much better progress than I anticipated; yet, it seems, not enough to overtake the train. The lat- ter, too, must be running considerably faster than we at first calculated upon, else we would have overhauled them long ago at this terrific pace.”’ “We're now only five miles from Richville, an’ still— Hello! There she is at last, or I’m a Hin- doo!” yelled Rufe Ruffle, suddenly, as he pointed with eager finger down -he line. There, sure enough, cculd be seen the twinkling lights of the runaway train, only a bri’f glimpse of Rufe Ruffle worked like a | which was to be had, however, ere it disappeared But that glimpse was sufficient to inspire the wouid-be rescuers with re- newed hope and courage, which was strengthened a minute later when, on coming once more in sight of the train, they saw that the intervening distance was steadily decreasing. ‘Hooray! We're on a dead Jevel now, an’ gsinin” fast. We'll catch ’em, sure, unless we bu’st our b’iler,” cried the fireman, jubilantly. On rolied the masterless train, and on, still faster, thundered the lone engine in pursuit. The latter was gaining perceptibly, now, and when the long line of cars rattled over the switch upon the main line, the railroad pards were only a few hundred yards behind. Headlight Harry glanced anxiously at his watch as they flashed by Richville station. ‘Almost time for the Express,’’ he exclaimed. ‘*T hope she is late to-night.” “Then you'll hope in vain. for there she is, right on time as usual,” cried Rufe Ruffle, whose quick ear caught a distant whistle even above the roar and rattle of the speeding engine. **Tt will be a close shave, but 1 think we can get there,” and the engineer’s blue eyes flashed with a determined fire. ‘‘Sound your whistle, Rufe, and let them know that help is near!” Rushing madly on to what seemed sure destruc- tion, the terrified excursionists were suddenly elec- trified by hearing a series of short, quick, ear split- ting whistles in the rear. Their astonishment was equaled only by their delight at beholding the ‘*Fleetwing ”’ so close behind. Quickly the glad in- telligence spread from car to car until it reached the president’s coach. Superintendent Renwood burried to the rear, followed by a throng of excited companions, Meantime, the brave fellows on the locomotive were preparing for further action. “There’s but one thing to be done,” declared Headlight Harry, as they rapidly drew nearer. *Rufe, you take care of the machine, while I—” ‘ Better let me ge, pard!” interposed the fireman, instantly divining bhis:comrade’s intentions. But too late! The engineer had already crept through the narrow window and entered upon his perilous journey. Along the running-board he glided, clinging tena- ciously to the hand-rail as he went. Thence, by a series of agile movements he made his way tu the ilot. P'the appearance of the daring engineer was the signal for a hearty burst of applause from the eager, excited men who crowded upon the rear ylatform of the train, row scarcely a hundred yards in advance. Breathlessly they watched and waited, realizing that the safe y of all on board depended upon thé efforts of that et youth who perched precariously on the pilot of the flying locomotive. On rushed the ‘' Fleetwing,” gaining rapidly; foot by foot the intervening gap was lessened. Head- light Harry knelt at the very edge of the platform, while with both hands he poised the ponderous coupling-bar. Superintendent Renwood. stood with coupling-pin in hand, ready to complete the connec- tion. Nearer—nearer, until the great bar slipped into its place, to be quickly secured, and the runaway train was a captive at last! Rufe Ruffle, ever on the alert, instantly shut off steam and reversed the engine; but the task of bringing that swiftly-running train to a standstill was no easy one, and it was a question if it could be accomplished after all in time to avoid a collision, Fortunately, the engineer of the approaching Ex- ress was quick to see the danger, and lost no time in exerting himself to savé his own train from de- struction, As a result, though the two trains actually came together, it was with greatly dimin- ished speed, and the passengers escaped with noth- ing worse than a severe shaking up. The joy of the excursionists knew no bounds when it was realized that danger no Jonger menaced them. Headlight Harry and Rufe Ruffle suddenly found themselves assailed by hundreds of admiring pas- sengers, all eeger to express their gratitude and grasp the hands of the brave fellows whose wi n- drous courage and daring had wrought their salva- tion. The first man to reach the cab of the “ Fleetwing ”° was Superintendent Ralph Renwood. Headvanced with extended hand to greet his old-time comrade, Headlight Harry. “Harry, my boy, youand Rufe Ruffle have added a big feather to your caps, to-night,” he exclaimed. “This is, indeed, a glorious performance, and one that a grateful esmpany will not be likely to forget.’* For a few minutes the arms of the railroad pards flew like pump-handles, but they passed through the hand pak iaer ordeal unflinchingly, and, when at length order was restored, the trains quickly pro- ceeded back to Richville. : There the excursionists left the cars and dispersed to their various homes; but, though worn and weary. it is safe to assert that sleep visited the eyes of but few the remainder of that eventful night, haunted as they were by memories of the tryin scenes through which they had so recently passe CHAPTER XI. PREPARING FOR PURSUIT. Tur day that witnessed the opening of the Bel- mont Branch, ard the disastrous sequel to that brilliant celebration, as related in the previous chap- ter, was followed by another equally as eventful. Although it was the holy Sabbath, a day closely observed by devout and law-abiding Richvillians, this particular occasion proved a noteworthy excep-
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Headlight Harry’s Haul. tion tothe rule. The streets of the town presented a striking contrast to their usual quiet appearance, being thronged at an early hour by hundreds of ex- cited citizens, among whom the sole topic of con- me ag was the stirring events of the previous night. The high-handed outrages perpetrated by the marauders led by Nick Norman immediately pro- voked a storm of indignation on every hand; for, while Richville had seen no little of crime and out- lawry during its eventful history, this latest exploit eclipsed everything on record in point of audacity. On al) sidescould be heard vows of vengeance against the dastardly road-robbers, and there was an outspoken d-termination to proceed at once against them, interest perhaps being considerable stimulated by the huge poster that soon appeared up on the door of the Town Hall, bearing the follow- ing announcement in freshly-painted letters at least a foot high: «$10,000 REWARD!!! “The above-named sum will be paid by the R. & | 8. R. R. Co. for the capture of the parties implicated in last night's robbery on the Belmont Branch. (Signed) Maurice MetrosE; ; * President.” This interesting notice was supplemented by an- other, signed by Mauric>? Melrose, personally, offer- ing an additional reward of $5,000 for the recovery of his missing daughter. These promised rewards, aggregating the hand- some sum of $15,000, were well calculated to stimu- late public zeal, and the work of organizing a strong roa to search for the outlaws was immediately egun, Bul, while the usual Sabbath calm was being broken by the tramp of heavy feet, and the con- fused cries of excited men, hastening from every | direction to join the pursuing party, other events of equal importance were traaspiring in another portion of the town. It was a noticeable fact that, amid the general con- fusion both Headlight Harry and his right bower, Rufus Ruffle, were conspicuous for their absence. However, the ralroad pards, far from being idle, were busily engaged in the promulgation of a little scheme of their own. The reader will remember that, when Nick Nor- man’s gang unsuccessfully attempted to recapture the ‘‘ Fleetwing,” one of their number, Sneaky Sam, fell into the hands of their plucky opponents. ‘This candidate for the sheriff’s halter, after being secure- ly bound, was bundled iato the tender, where he lay quite forgotten by the railroad pards during the stirring scenes that immediately succeeded his cap- ture. However, when the long, exciting chase was | ended, and the rescued passengers were dispersing to their several homes, Headlig t Harry's thoughts reverted to his prisoner. With characteristic shrewdness he omitted to mention the capture of Sneaky Sam, having already resolved upon a method of obtaining the weal h of information that he believed to be locked within the breast of that individual. So the crowd gradually dispersed, quite oblivious of the fact that a full-fledged train-rcbber, mask, weapons and all, wasin their very midst; and, after seeing the “ Fleetwing ” safely housed, the railroad ards held a brief consultation to determine how to ispose of their captive. ' It was resolved to convey him to the home of Rufe Ruffle. which was only a short distance away; and, accordingly, Sneaky Sam was lifted unceremo- niously between them and carried frora the round- hous- into the dark, unfrequented street leading to the fireman’s humble habitation. The pourriey was made without attracting attention, and the captive outiaw was conveyed up stairs to Rufe’s own room, without awakening the latter’s parents, who wee not only old and deaf, but remarkably sound sleep- e rs. After assuring themselves that the ruffian was se- cured beyond the slightest possibility of escape, the railroad pards threw themselves down to s.atch a few hours’ of much needed rest. They were astir at an early hour, however, foregoing for once the extra morning nap that was usually one of the most enjoyable features of their weekly holiday. Sneaky Sam was apparently fast asleep, judging ws the sonorous snores that emanated f/om his vicinity; but when Rufe Ruffie grasped the water- pitcher and poured a few drops. down tha sleeper’s neck, it had the effect of arousing him instantly. His dark eyes glittered wickedly as he regarded his captors, whiie a muttered oath escaped his lips. Headlight Harry, looking into the brutal, villain- ous face of the prisoner, felt that he had indeed an unpromising subject to work upon; but he hoped to bring the fellow to terms, and lost no time in com- ing to the point. * Well, my fine fellow, what do you think of your resent situation? Is it not a deligh ful one?” he nterrogated, by way of opening conversation. Then, having received no reply other than a sullen Scowl, he immediately went on: **It is needless to remind you of the fact that you one of a band of train-robbers, and are caught, red- handed, in your acts of outlawry. Now, your latest exploit is known only to myself and pard; butif I should reveal the truth to the clamoring populace outside, what do you think would be the result, | Sneaky Sam? Not a slight fine or a few mouths’ sentence, this time, ’'ll be bound. There would be a first-class necktie party held within ten minutes, in which you wouli be the center of attraction. How does that prospect strike you, friend Samuel?” The prostrate ruffian’s face had visibly turned ale, and it was evident that the picture drawn by 1is captor was by no means pleasiag to him, ** [ s’pose ye’ll turn me over to the p’lice,”’ he ex- claimed, sullenly. ‘ Ye’ve got me dead to rights, an’ I reckon my goose is cooked this time, sure ”’ ‘* Well, my gay and festive robber, it depends al- together upon yourself whether you ever again breathe the sweet air of liberty,” returned the engi- neer, cooliy. “As I said before, no one knows of your capture; so, if I choose to let you go free, what is there to hinder?” “ An’ will ye do that, boss?” asked Sneaky Sam, | hopefully. **On one condition, yes. You must make a clean | breast of your connection with Nick Norman’s band, | our efforts against thei. and give us full directions how to reach the head- quarters of the gang; also, any other information you may possess which will be of service to us in Do this, and you shall go free immediately after I prove the truth of your statements. What say you?”’ “If [refuse to betray the gang—what then?” “Then I shall hand you over tothe authorities without delay,” answered Headlight Harry, sternly. “Come! Time is too precious to waste, Sneaky Sam! I’'llgive you just five minutes to decide which course you will take,” Fora few moments Sneaky Sam was silent, dur- | ing which time his captors regarded him compla- are now a helpless prisoner; aud I suppose you'a e ' Sharp enough to surmise that we have not taken the trouble to bring you here without having a defi- nite object in view. Now, I propose to come to the point without useless sep sig and it will be well for you to listen attentively to what I have to say. Let me say, to begin, that I know you, Sneaky - Sam—and there are few who do not—as a cowardly scoundrel, capable of all sorts of petty crimes and misdemeanors, from robbing a hen-roost to pickin a blind man’s pocket. Such has been your pa: record; and now, to cap the climax, you appear as | cently, having having little doubt what his final de- termination would be. They had already sized the ruffian up as a fellow who would have little com- “eagenyo about betraying his partners in crime, if oy so doing his personal safety was assured; and the sequel proved their estimate to be correct. “ Wal, pards, seein’ ye have me cornered, I s’pose | I might’s well give up the game,” declared the pris- oner, even before the allotted five minutes had ex- phat ‘“‘T reckon there's no law to prevent a feller »lowin’ on his gang to save his own hide; an’ so T’il | give ye the hull story, trustin’ ye’ll use me square in | returs.” ‘A very sensible resolution, Samuel. Now, pro- | ceed as briefly as possible, and tell us what you know of Nick Norman's band, Speak truthfully, and rest assured I will do as I agreed.” “* What I know about the gang can easily be told, Ireckon. Itseems that Nick Norman has been liv- in’ in seclusion for a long time, somewhere up in the mountains—I don't know just where. Wal. he heard ofthe big excursion to be run at the openin’ of the Belmont Branch, so he laid his plans to capture the train, thinkin’ to make a big haul of boodle. He set to work to organize a band for that purpose; an’ when one of his men came to me an’ said as how a rich pile could be mad+ by a few hours’ work, I was durn fool enough to jointhe gang. [ didn’t know jest what the job was to be until the time came for work; then I got seared an’ would ’'a’ backed out if the prospect for plunder hadn’t be’n so mighty big. Along I went with the crowd, an’ as a result here I am—in the soup!” * You are, perhaps, better off than your late com- rade will be a few houtg hence,” declared Headlight Harry, significantly ‘** Now, where can the band be found? Where is their rendezvous? Ins me inac- cessible spot among the mountains, I presume.”’ “Wal, | don’t know of any reg’lar retreat, an’ dou’t believe there is any,’’ answered Sneaky Sam, promptly. “Ye see, the band was organized ex- ressly for this partickler occasion, bein’ made up Jargely of miners from the various camps ‘twixt here an’ Belmont; an’ they will peceeyy. disband immediately af er: dividing the plunder. We met yestreday at a point three miles from Silver Creek, an’ the understandin’ was that we should return there when the job was done; sol expect the gang in there about this time, fightin’ over a division 0’ the spoils. If you want to see ’em very bad, you had better make haste afore the gang is scattered in every direction.” “A good sugzestion which shall be promptly acted gx, Sneaky Sam. We will seek the ruffians without delay, and you shall be the man to guide us to the spot where they are supposed to hold forth. .‘Come, Rufe! Let's leave this penitent sinner to his own refiections for a short time, while we look after a few friends who are anxious to try their luck at outlaw-hunting.” The railroad pards were in the street a few mo- ments later, leaving their crestfallen prisoner, still “pound hand and foot, to await their return. “Do ye taxe any s‘ock in Sneaky Sam's confes- | sion?” inquirei Rufe Ruffle, as they hurried along, “ Mebbe the durn skunk is givin’ us a wr6ng steer,” “No; the fellow is too thoroughly seared, If think, to attempt any treachery. He realizes he is wholly at our mercy, and, relying aoe my promise to set him free, has doubtless told the whole truth.” ‘Well, what’s the next move, pard?” _ “To raise a party of men fit to cope with the out- laws... Y .usee, there will.be a grand rush to win the rewari that the company has offered. Hundreds of men will go tramping into the hills in quest of Nick Norman’s gang, with far more enthusiasm than caution, and the probable result will be that the outlaws will scent their coming and quietly flit i to the , leaving their pursuers to roam the hills over to their hearts’ content, Now, if we can get the start of this expedition, knowing as we do the pro- bable location of, the robbers (that is, allowing Sneaky Sam’s story is true), we stand an excellent show of surprising the gang and effecting its cap- ture.’ ‘An’ also of pocketin’ a snug little reward,” sup- plemented the fireman, with an anticipative grin. ‘*Oh, bother the reward! You can have my share if we succeed,”’ returned Headlight Harry, impa- tiently. “If I can bring about the capture of Nick Norman’s band and restore the president’s daughter to her home, the know edge of a good deed well done will be ample reward forme. Now, I would like to set my eyes on Roy Noble, the Express-messenger, about this time. e is a brave fellow, and just the one to join us in this enterprise, for he’s dead in love with Mabel Melrose and doubtless is worrying himself to death about her.” “Speak of the devil an’ he’s sure to look over your shoulder,” cried Rufe Ruffle, as at that very moment a young man rushed impetuously around the corner froma side street and collided violently with them. He was d tall, handsome young fellow, and his face bore unmistakable marks of grief and anxiety. * Hello, boys!” he saluted. ‘I’m hurrying to join the expedition which is soon to start insearch of the train-robbers. I tell you the whole town is up inarms, and we'll have every one of the infernal scoundrels dangling from a limb before nightfall. Of course you'll join us?” : , ‘* Hardly, Roy, since we are about to organize a arty of our own for a similar purpose. You must join us /”’ returned Headlight Harry, promptly; and then he briefly explained matters to the surprised messenger, ' The latter immediately saw the wisdom of hi¢ friends’ scheme, and declared his readiness to join them. The next thing, now. was to enlist others in the enterprise, and to accomplish this in the quick- est possible time the trio separated and went in different directions, each looking for brave, deter- mined men who could be depended upon in an emergency. - Owing to the fact that Sunday trains were wholly dispensed with iu that section there were plenty of idle railroad men to be found in Richville that day; and it was among them that the three young men directed their efforts, In a very few minutes over ascore of stalwart fellows had signified their eager- ness to follow the railroad pards on the venturesome expedition, a'l of them personally known to be the very embodiment of courage. Every man was well- armed and eager for the fray. : , Having raised a formidable force without difficul- ty, it now remained to provide a means of trans- portation, to Silver Creek, fully twenty miles away. ‘or this purpose it was decided to utilize hand cars, a number of which were to be found in an adjacent car-house. ; ‘*T understand that a special train will be pro- vided to convey the other party to the point where the excursionists were stopped and robbed,” ex- plained R y Nobie. ‘It is their intention to strike the outlaws’ trail and follow it up from that point.’” ‘‘And as Nick Norman is actually located several miles from there, I calculate our friends will have a weary tramp before they come upon the object of their search,” returned the engineer. ‘* Meantime, with the advantage of knowing just where to look for the robbers, I hope to effect the capture of the entire gang, and thus have a grand laugh on our riva s who are quite oblivious of our intentions.” Thus sanguine of success, the outlaw-hunters. made all possible haste to complete their prepara- tions, and were soon ready for the staft. So in- tensely was popular interest centered in the doings of the larger cxpecition that their own movements failed to attract attention; and the fact that the hand-cars to be used were kept some distance from the depot added materially to their chances of get- ting away without detection. , Scarcely more than an hour had elapsed since the confession of Sneaky Sam, when Headlight Harry’s party departed silently from Richville, not forgetting to take along the captive rcbber, whose knowledge was relied upon to guide them to the presence of Nick Norman. To invade the latter’s mountain haunts was an enterprise fraught with no little peril, as every man well knew; but this knowledge only strengthened their resolution to follow the trail to the bitter end, nor rest until the last of that ras- cally band was brought to justice. CHAPTER X'I. A FAIR, CAPTIVE. Ir is now necessary to leave the outlaw-hunters for a time, and follow the adventures of the fair girl whose mysterious disappearance had caused such grief and anxiety among her many relatives and friends. r During the time that the train-robbers were en- tertaining themselves at the expense of their vic+ tims, Mabel Melrose had stood surrounded by friends, sharing the general feeling of disgust and terror at being compelled to participate in so dis- agreeable a sceue. Then, when the excursionists. were finally at liberty to depart, she was one of the first to rush for her seat in the car. At that moment, unfortunately, her foot caught against some obtrusive object, and she fell heavily tothe earth. Before she could rise, the poor girl was trampled upon by the surging crowd bebind, who were too excited and anxious for their own safety to observe her prcustr ote form or heed her feeble cry; while her own party, as already known, failed to discover her absence until the train was under wey: : Stunned and bruised, though not seriously in- jured, Mabel lay for several moments upon the cold
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— -_ Aral 12 a2 - Headlight Harry’s Haul. and when she finally regained her feet it was to find, much to her dismay, that the train was in motion, A cry of dismay escaped the young girl’s lips, as she saw the twinkling lights of the ears vanish swiftly in the distance, and realized that she was separated from her friends. Her ery was overheard by the outlaws, who were but a few paces away, and instantly the frightened girl found herself surrounded by a group of stal- wart ruffians, who regarded her with curious cyes. Their redoubtable leader, Nick Norman, quickly pushed his way through the crowd. ‘* What's the rumpus here?”’ he gruffly demanded, “ What are ye all starin’ at, anyhow?” “A woman, captain, and a beauty,” volunte*red ene of the robbers, with a leer. ‘* One o’ the excur- sion crowd, I reckon, an’ she’s got left behind,” “Left behind, hey? Well, can see that easy enuff without tellin’,I reckon. Stand back, ye ill- mannered galoots, an’ give me a chance to interview the lady.”’ So saying, the outlaw chief confronted the girl, who stood in mingled fear and trembling. He scanned her lovely face in surprise and admiration **So you got left, eh?” he bluntlyyexclaimed, at length ‘* Well, tha:’s mighty unfortuna’e, blame my eyesif it ain’t. How'd it happen, anyhow?” Summoning her courage with a supreme effort, Mabel with difficulty found words to explain, though her pale face and faltering voice fully betraved her inward trepidation. Nick Norman still kept his eyes tixed attentively upon her. ‘ *Pears to me your face seems mighty familiar, yet I can’t just place ye,” he said. ‘*What is your name, miss, if I may ask?” ‘Mabel Melrose !*’ was the timid reply. “So! Any relation to old Melrose, the high-cock olorum 0’ this here railroad?” “T am the daughter of Maurice Melrose, sir.’’ “The deuce you say!” cried the outlaw leader, with a sudden start, while an exultant gleam shot into his snaky eyes. “Here is a bit of rare good fortune that I little counted upon,”’ the robber muttered with a gleeful chuckle. Then, aftera moment, he again addressed the trembling maiden. **So you’re old Melrose’s gal, eh? Well, I reckon the old man was mighty careless to leave ye in the lurch in this fashion, en he awakes to the fact that he has left his daughter in Nick Norman’s dis- tinguished vompany, as he doubtless will do about this time, the old rebrobate will be tempted to kick himself for his stupidity. Well, ‘what can’t be cured must be endured,’ sats the old saw; so you had better accept the situation with as good grace as possible.” “But, sir, how am I to reach my home?” faltered poor Mabel, ap ager * That’s a riddle, and I give it up,” laughed Nick PYorman. ‘“ The rrain has departed, as you can se, and there is no other means of transportation that I am aware of,” “ Burt there is another train—the second section of the excursion—which is now approachinz,” per- sisted the girl. ‘ Will you not signal the train and have me Se on board?” The outlaw leader laughed loud and long, “TIrisa pity not to accommodate so fair a being but really | must refuse to comply with your: equest for two excellent reasons. Firstly, the train you mention, unless my plans miscarry, will never reach this point. Secondly, the fact that you are Maurice Melrose’s daughter makes it imperative that I should insist upon the pleasure of your company, fora time at least.’ “What do you mean, Sir?’ “T will explain when | have more time. At pres- ent consider yourself the honored guest of Nick Norman, andr st assured that you aresafe from all harm. | Here, lieutenant!’ A tall, brawny fellow, the captain’s right bower, was quickly at his leader’s side. “T willleave this young lady in your charge, for I must follow the boys to look after that train. Keep a sharp eye on her, and don’t allow her to escape, for she is the railroad ty enpoinc thy daughter. and is literally worth her weight in gold tous, Re- member, sir, unless you produce this girl, un- Vaeigtea on my return, your life shall pay the for- eit. ‘ * Your will is law, captain,” returned the subal- tern pr mptly. ‘The lady will be perfectly safe in my bands, never fear.”’ ‘oor Mabel! Picture her consternation at hearing the significant words of the outlaws, into whose power she had unwittingly fallen. Nick Norman’s assurance that she was e from injury, far from effecting its purpose served rather to ingrease her alarm, As she looked around upon that desperate band ot masked men, standing grim and ghostly in the moonlight, and realized how utterly helpless she was in their hands, far from home and loving friends, she was overcome by the horror of the situ.tion and sunk to the ground in a deep swoon! When pretty Mabel Melrose at last recoverei con- ‘sciousness, it was to marvel greatly at the change that hai taken place in her surroundings. -No longer the dismal spot beside the railroad, which had been the scene of her misfortune. Th> vast, gloomy forest, the babbling stream with its moo waters, the masked outlaws flitting about like demons of the night—all had vanished: and in their place appeared a scene in such marked con- trast that the astonished rirl was fain to wonder by what A inca the marvelous transformation was g ‘ground; Fasto fi wrou It was broad daylight, now, and a tiny ray of sun- shine kissed the fair face of the maiden as she opened her eyes and looked bewilderedly around her, She found herself lying upon a couch in a | ' corner of a room, through the single window of | which gleamed the welcome sunlight. The apart- ment was of medium size, and plainly though comfortably furnished. The floor was thickly car- peted with handsome furs which formed a warm and luxurious covering, while ti e walls were simi- larly decorated, 1 huge curtain being suspended on one side evidently to separate the apartment from another. All this Mabel Melrose observed at a _ single glance, and much remained to attract attention as she continued to take a mental inventory of the contents of the room. She noted that a little cracked looking-glass hung above the antiquated bureau that graced one corner, while numerous pictures, mostly cheap ehromos and jithographs, adorned the walls. There were, too, a number of those nondescript articles, combining the useful with the ornamental, in the p.oduction of which ingenious woman takes a peculiar delight: and as Mabel, in surprise, observed these various details, it was with a growing belief that one of her own sex was the rightful occupant of the apartment into which she had been so mysteriously spirited. This opinion was strengthened, too, when ste discovered a row of pegs in the opposite corner, upon which were hung sundry garments, about the sex of whose owuer there could not be the slightest doubt. Who was the fair unknown, and what was the location of this her humble home? Mabel Melrose found herself vainly seeking an answer to these questions, as she continued to gaze interestedly about the room. Desirous of learning as much as possible regarding her whereabouts, she arose from the couch, not without considerable difficulty, for she was faint and dizzy, and eagerly made her way to the’‘narrow window. The vista from this point was neither extensive nor inviting, merely revealing the fact that the building, which was a rough log cabin of considerable size, stood in a small clearing in the heart of the virgin, forest. On three sides stretched an almost impenetrable wall of huge trees and tangled under. growth, while on the remaining side uprose a pre- cipitous, vine-clad cliff, close to which the humble cabin nestled. A glimpse of blue sky overhead, en- livened by Old Sol’s radiant face, formed the single pleasing feature of an otherwise dismal prospect Mabel Melrose turned from the window, by no means charmed by the view therefrom, and her gaze next rested upon the heavy curtain stretched aeross the room What was on the other side? Not a sound could be heard, though she listened at- tentively. It was barely possible, she thought, that the cabin was temporarily deserted, in which case there was notbing to prevent her from fleeing from the gloomy place Inspired by vague hopes of escape, the young lady stepped resolutely across the recom, resolved to penetrate the mysteries beyond. She pushed the curtain aside, and peered eagerly out, onty to recoil with a cry of amazement at the sight which met her gaze. CHAPTER XIIT. THE OUTLAW’S DAUGHTER. Tr Mable Melrose Be par a to find the outer apart- ment deserted, and therefore make her way from the woodland cabin withot molestation, a single glance sufficed to demonstrate the fallacy of her cal- culations, The room contained a single occupant, as Mabel instantly perceived; but, it was not the mere discovery of this fact alone that chained the fairintruder’s gaze and wrung a startled exclama- tion from her lips, but rather the striking peisonal appearance ot the stranger, which was, indeed, well calculated to excite surprise and admiration, Imagine a girl of scarcely more than eighteen summers, just budding into the grace and beauty of perfect womanhood, of medium height, lithe aud supple as the willow, with a quee ly head crowned by a wreath of glossy black hair that fell in )ux- uriant ringlets about her milk-white neck and shoulders; a clear, oval face, every feature of which was as regular as thuugh fashioned by a sculptor’s hand; eyes black as sloes, sparking with all the diamond’s luster, and cheeks that glowed with the rosy bloom of health. Such is, in brief, a picture of the bevut ful being with whom Mabel Melrose sud- denly found herself face to face. Attired in garments of coarse texture that fitted close to her splendid figu’e, revealing allits grace and symmetry, this fair nymph-of the woods re- clined at ease in a wooden rocker, idly ero a pr ‘tty kitten that lay purring contentedly in the lap «fits mistress. However, atsight of Mabel sheim- mediately arose, and advanced with a smile that revealed two even rows of teeth of pearly white- ne*s. “So you have awoke at last!’ she exclaimed, in tones singularly clear and bell-like. “TI was about to rouse you, fearing you were emulating Rip Van Winkle, when fortunately I was relieved at hearing you astir; so I decided to wait, well knowing that a woman's curiosity would soon tempt you to ap- ar. As Mabel Melrose stood in mute amazement. and stared fixedly at the speaker like one enchanted, noting her dazzling beauty, her cheerful words. her ringing laugh, she found it indeed difficult to be- lieve the evidence of her own senses. That such a lovely being was to be found presiding over an hum ble log-cabin in the heart of the wilderness seemed almost incredible; yet, there she s‘ood, a creature of veritable flesh and blood—a very queen’ of the woods! And as she looked upon the beautiful face, in which to ber own eyes was reflected noth- ing of deceit or guile, Mabel felt the fear that had hitherto possessed her in a measure disappear. Surely, reasoned the girl, there could be no great danger to apprehend, if the angel in human re who now stood before her was any critericn by | which to judge her captors. Obedient to a sudden nnpulse, the railroad mag- nate’s daughter rushed forward and seized the hand of the beautiful stranger. “Oh, tell me,” sbe cried, impetuously, ‘ where am I, and why have I been taken tothis place? The last | remember I was standing in a lonely spot be- side the railroad, surrounded by the terrible masked mev who had robbed the train. My friends had proceeded, homeward, leaving me behind unknow- ingly. Now Iwake to find myself in this strange place. ‘ihe interval has been an utter blank to me. Oh, please let me know the whole truth ct cnee, and, if possible, relieve my anxiety!’ ‘“Any explanation in my power will cheerfully be given, [ assure you,’’ was the pleasent response, ‘To comm ence, this is my father’s humble bome, and it was he who brought you here this morning at sunrise, that is to say several hours ago, for the day is now well advanced.”’ . * And your father—who is he “Men know him as Nick Norman. No doubt you have heard his name mentioned before,” and a grim smile played about the mouth of the speaker. ‘ hi ae quite a celebrated character in this section, relieve,” ‘What? Nick Norman, the outlaw—the fugitive from justice! And ycu—you are his daughter?” ‘*Yes; 1 am his daughter, Madge. Pray, is there anything remarkable in the fact?’ returned the beauteous wood-nymph, laughing in evident amuse- ment at the look of surprise and incredulity that appeared upon the face of Mabel Melrose at the announcement. ** There is, indeed, to my eyes at least,” the latter promptly answered, ‘‘It seems scarcely credible that one so beautifcl as yourself is the offspring of 9" | | | | | | such a notorious wretch as this so-called Nick ; Norman enjoys the reputation of being.” ‘** Nevertheless the faci remains: and I may add, | since you have voiced the world’s opinion of my father, that were he even ten times blacker than he is painted, my affection for him woud not be lessen- ed. He has always been a kind and loving father, whatever his faults may be, and though a merciless | public has branded him criminal and outlaw, yet L glory none the less in the relationship.”’ The words poured in an impetucus torrent from Madge Norman’s lips, while her black eyes flashed and her bosom heaved. Her listener could not fail to be impressed by this demonstration of the love borne by the lovely girl for her erring parent. “Forgive me if 1 have offended you. I had no intention of hurting your feelings,’’ Mabel hastened to say. 7 Tart my feelings, indeed! Have no fear of that, for I am used to hearing my father spoken of as an incarnation of all that isbad, Well knowing the general sentiment, I can by no means blame you for sharing it.” * T suppose, then, your father was concerned in the train-robbery last night,’’ pursued Mabel, after a short pause. 7 , ** Most decidedly so; since it was be who planned the enterprise and pushed it to a successiul com- pletion. None but be would have bad the nerve to undertake such a dangerous game.” **But why has be brought me to this dismal place? His thieving minions have already taken what valuables I pcssessed; and I fail to see what advantage can accrue \o him by subjecting me to this treatment.” “Then you are by no means sharp cr you would instantly perceive the motive,” rejoined Madge Norman, witha knowing smile. “T plead guilty to the charge of obtuseness, in this case at least. I am utterly in the dark, and must look to you for enlightenment.” : “Which I am both able and wiiling to give, since my father has already revealed to me his intentions concerning you.” “ Well?” : “Well, you are the daughter of Maurice Melrose, are you not?” “Tam.” 4 “ And that gentleman is extremely wealthy?” **And he loves you dearly—fairly worships the ground you tread, I dare say?” * He does, indeed!” “Well, then, is not the rest clear to you? Your disappearance will doubtless cause your affectionate father no end of grief and anxiety; so, when he learns that you are still safe and sound and can be produced upon payment of a certain sum, he will not hesitate to loosen his purse-strings and thereby secure the safe return of beloved daughter.” **Oh, indeed!’ ““At least, such are my father’s calculations, and he is 2 master-hand at scheming. When he learned that you were tbe child of that rich old nabob, Maurice Melrose, be was not slow to embrace the golden opportunity fer pecuniary gain; and thus it s that you find Seareet within the mountain home of Nick Norman, the outlaw.” ‘*F comprehend his purpose, now, thanks to your explanation,” Mabel Melrose exclaimed, somewhat relieved by the words of the outlaw’s daughter, “Tam tobe held for ransom in true bandit fashion until such time as my father sees fit to pay the rice demanded for my release. Yery romantic, to | e sure! Yrt I may oned, I thinr, if I pre- fer my own home to this dreary spot in the woods; | so I hope my father will lose no time in coming to the rescue with the required sum. } ‘You need have no fears on that score, for I am | greatly mistaken if Maurice Melrose wavers an in- stant with the welfare of his daughter at stake, vee" r hea) OPT AE ee : NOPE ¢ a a ee
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Headlight Harry’s Haul. though the amount of ransom demanded will doubt- less be considerable. However, you may expect to be at liberty in a few pays, at the most.” “In a few days?’’ echoed the fair prisoner, in blank dismay. ‘‘Am I to pass whole days and mights in this lonely place? Why, I would die of homesickness! The bare thought of it makes me shudder, I declare.”’ : ‘*How remarkably sensitive you are, to besure,” laughed Madge Norman. derisively. ‘This humble dwelling in the forest is of course far different from your own grand home; yet. I dare say, you éan manage to survive a brief sojourn here without seri- ous resuits,”’ “T am by no means anxious to try the experi. ment,” declared Mabel, with suddenly rising cour age. “Ishould like to know what is to prevent me from leaving this house at once, I will not tamely submit to such indignities.” She stepped resolutely toward the open door as she spoke, but with a sudden movement Madge bar- red her progress. “What is to prevent you, indeed?” she cried with a mocking laugh. ‘Do you forget that I am here? Look at this!”’ She suddenly flourished a gleaming revolver be- fore the eyes of the startled girl, who recoiled with a ery of horror, losing all her new-born courage at sight of that deadly weapon. ‘Don’t be afraid!” admonished the outlaw’s daughter, and the revolver disappeared as quickly as it had come, “I was merely vemonstrating my ability to keep you a prisoner here, which I saw you were rather inclined to doubt.” “Would you join in detaining me against my will —you, a woman like myself?’ earnestly pleaded Mabel, by no means pleased at the idea of spending an unknown period therein the heart of the wilder- ness, “Tam simply obeying orders, you know. My father bade me keep a close watch upon you and see that you do not leave this cabin, because his own interests demand your temporary detention, Therefore, itis ny duty to see that his plans are ie a out, and I shall doso to the best of my ability. ‘*Now, let me give you some sisterly advice,” Madge continued, in softer tones. ‘‘ You are pro- bably convinced by this time that escapeis inpossi- ble; so why not cheer up and make the best of the situation? The surroundings may be a trifle un- pleasant to one of your pampered tastes, but you'll admit they might be a great deal worse. Let me assure you, first of all, that you are as safe here with me as though in yourown house, The] :ca- tion of this cabin is a secret to all but father and I, and we are quite secure from intrusion. During your stay, which will be but brief, I shall consider Ae my honored guest, and shall do all within my umble power to make the time pass pleasantly. I hope you will appreciate my Sod intention and en- deavor to reconcile yourself to the situation, You must admit that such isthe wisest course to pursue under existing circumstances, Mabel Melrose, listening in silence to the words of the woodland beauty, could not fail to be favorably impressed thereby.. Though naturally vexed at the disagreeable situation in which she found herself, she was sensible enough to realize the folly of fur- ther opposition, She saw thatit would be utterly impossible to escape from the cabin, guarded as she was by the vigilant young woman who was true as steel her allegiance to Nick Norman; but at the same time Madge’s frank, straightforward manner did much to reassure her that no personal danger was to be dreaded while she remained in her charge, “Well, since you are soanxious to entertain me as a guest. Isuppose I must accept your hospital- ity,” exclaimed Mabel, at last, “‘ though I amfree to say that itis from necessity, not from choice, that iremain beneath this roof, and I trust the arrange- ments for my release will be completed as soon as possible.” ‘Ah! [see you are becoming reconciled to the situation, which is very sensible to be sure. Per- haps, indeed, you may become so attached to your new quarters that you will exceedingly regret when the time draws near to depart,” § Madge Nor- man laughed mertily. “There is little probability of such a result, I as- sure you,’’ the fair prisoner hastened to-assert. ** Well, be that as it may, I shall devote myself none the less assiduously to your comfort. My first duty shall be to offer you refreshments, suc as my scanty resources afford, for I know that many hours have elapsed since you last tasted food, and consequently you must be well-nigh*famished. Indeed, you are looking pale and weary, and noth- ing can invigorate you so quickly asa cup of good, Strong coffee, made by such experienced hands as mine. Come!” Mabel needed no second bidding, being blessed with a vigorous appetite which even the excitement attending her recent adventures had failed to im- pair; So she permitted herself to be conducted to the rude deal table near by, while her self-appointed hostess hurried to place before her an array of dishes which, if not elaborate, were at least plenti- ful and appetizing. IT will not apologize for the lack of silver-ware, table-linen, and soforth, since you can scarcely ex- peer a fugitive outlaw, whose home is a rude hut in he heart of the wilderness, to be the proud pos- sessor of such luxuries,” said Madge, lightly. “However, here are eatables in abundance, an unless your stomach is so fastidious as to rebel a’ the a ty, I see nothing to prevent you from pitch- And the hungry girl did “ pitch in” with a relish, the coffee fies, th the food well cook- | 7 eee SS ed and appetizing. As she ate she also found op- portunity to note all the details of her new sur- roundings, She saw that the room in which she now sat was considerably larger than the first, and evidently served the double purpose of living-room and kitch- en. “Its furniture was scanty, consisting of little besides a stove, a table and a few chairs. The walls were hung with furs, which also carp ted the earth- en floor, lend ng an air of warmth and comfort to the rude apartment: One corner contained a couch, which was doubtless occupied by Nick Norman whenever that worthy chanced to be at home, What interested Mabel Melrose most of all, how- ever, was the fair mistress of this isolated abode, who now flitted lightly about the room engaged in various household duties. Long ago had she heard of the notorious outlaw and his turbulent career— heard, too, of the mutherless daughter whose liome was with distant relatives, honest, well-to-do people who were affording her every opportunity for cul- ture and learning, when suddenly her mysterious disappearance, simultaneous with the flight of her misereant father, set the neighborhood agog with excitement. Little did she imagine when thinking of Margaret Norman, whose whereabouts were from that hour clothed in impenetrable mystery, that she was one day destined to meet the outlaw’s daugh ter, and that too under such liar circumstances. The fact that this beautiful and accomplished girl had voluntarily left a pleasant home and loving friends to become the companion of a rovkl-ss criminal, on whose head a price was set, to share bis solitary life beset by perils and hardships in- numerable, to pass her days there on the dreary mountain-side, far from civilization, solicitous only for his comfort and safety—was this not touching evidence of a daughter’s love and devotionry Each succeeding moment found Mabel Melrose more deeply interested in the beautiful being whose acquaintance she had made in so remarkable a manner, Indeed, there was a charm and novelty in the situation that was not without its effect upon the romantically-inclined girl, whose own fears and misgivings were henasorest ti lost sight of in her in- creasinz concern for the outlaw's daughter, CHAPTER XIV. 4 BLOODLESS VICTORY. MEANWHILE, the intrepid band of outlaw-hunters, under the leadership of Headlight Harry, were pressing resolutely on their hazardous way. So en- ergetically were the hand-cars propelled, that mile after mile of track was covered with astonishing rapidity, and it was not long before a point was reached within a short distance of Silver Creek, in which neighborhood Nick Norman was supposed to have his haunts. Here it was that Sneaky Sam, acting in his capa- ~~ as guide of the e ition, gave directions to halt. The cars were quickly derailed and concealed in a dense thicket; then the bold man-hunters, leaving the vicinity of the railroad, plunged eagerly into the vast forest in quest of their prey. Sneaky Sam proceeded with the unhesitating air of one who thoroughly knows his way. He was to all appearances sincere in his promise to lead the party to the secret rendezvous of the train-robbers; yet there were not a few who looked upon his move- ments with suspicion. Watchful eyes ever rested upon him, and more than one hand clutched a trusty weapon, ready to shoot at the first sign of treach- ery. Te the ruffian divined the suspicion of those who were aoe ateg open for him guidance, he certainly gave no sign of the fact, but plodded steadily on. Headlight Harry kept close by his side, while the others followed along behird. The guide soon struck a narrow trail, if such it might be called, leading into the heart of the forest; it was but faintly defined, and, indeed, might easily qecege the notice of one unskilled in woodcraft. owever, Sneaky Sam followed its sinuous windin, unerringly, indicating his familiarity with the | " ity. The trailled gradually up the mountain-side, passing through a dense undergrowth where thorns and briers predominated, and which in many places was well-nigh impassable. Through this entangled mass the outlaw-hunters struggled bravely, ignoring tattered clothes and lacerated skin in their eager- ness to reach the end of the trail. f In this uncomfortable fashion they had proceeded for fully half an hour, when suddenly Sneaky Sam gave a cautionary signal that brought every man to an immediate standstill, “We ain’t a great ways now from the spot where the gang was ordered to report,” he said, *‘so I reckon it'll be necessary to mouse about mighty keerful in order to ketch ’em nappin’, for they’re wide-awake fellers an’ kin scent danger like a mouse scents new cheese. Hark! Durned if I don’t hear *em now!” ‘ ; All listened attentively, and, sure enough, the dull murmur of distant voices came floating to their ears. The tell-taie sound, revealing as it did the whereabouts of the road-wrecker band, at the same time admonished the venturesome man-hunters that they were treading upon dangerous ground where the utmost caution was necessary to prqmote the success of their enterprise | Once more the party moved slowly forward, each step being taken with extreme deliberation, for the mere snapping of a stick beneath a careless tread py — the ruin of their plans. The proxiuity of the oe, with the immediate p t of a deadly confli failed to abate their enthusiasm in the least. ery eye burned with a determined fire; every hand clutched a trusty weapon, in readiness for the fray. As they drew nearer the sounds that had first 13 attracted attention rapidly became more distinct. Boisteraus laughter, coarse oaths and jests, with an occasional snatch of ribald song, were now plainly distinguished. The authors of this babel of sound were enjoying themselves to their hearts’ content, and that they had no thought of immediate danger was equally apparent from the freedom and bold- ness of their demonstrations, Advancing stealthily through the thicket, like so many panthers gliding upon their prey, the bold trailers soon found themselves in full view of the scene. It*was a cozy, secluded nook, under the shadow of a stupendous cliff, where the train-rob- bers had pitched their temporary camp. Gathered around a blazing fire, they were now making merry over a rude repast, in which the consumption of ardent spirits formed an important feature, as was evidenced by the large number of bottles in con- stant circulation. There were fully two-score of them, great burly fellows all, whose villainous faces were plainly revealed now that the disguising masks had been carelessly flung aside, Many of them sported gold chains, rings and other articles of jewelry, which had fallen to their lot in the division of the plunder, and which afforded a Iudicrous contrast to their rough attire and bristling wea- pons. It was plain that the entire party was more or less under the influence of liquor, and this fact might well explain their surprising lack of vigilance, They continued to make the welkin resound with their maudlin cries mye nee singing, cursing, quarreling—no thoughts of peril once entering their muddled minds, Little imagined they, in the midst of the revelry, that more than a score of sturdy, resolute foes were lurking in yon leafy covert, watching every movement with exultant eyes, and needing only a signal to hurl themselves into their midst like a rampant cyclone. To say that the man-hunters were elated at the unexpected state of affairs would be to but faintly express their feelings. Every man had entered upon the expedition with the belief that the meetin with the outlaws, if indeed they found them at all, would be the signal for a desperate and bloody con- flict, But, lo! the festive raiders, taking advantage of their leader’s absence, had celebrated their recent victory by getting gloriously drunk, and were now apparently quite at their pursuers’ mercy! Headlight Harry, comprehending at a glance how matters were, lost no time in determining upon a course of action. A single volley discharged into that crowd at such close range would have laid more than half their number low; however, he was resolved to capture every man alive if possible. Whispered instructions were quickly passed along the line of eager fellows who aomaed 15 ambush, fingering ready weapons and impatiently waiting for the commencement of hostilities. Then suddenly, when the carousal was at its height, the revelers were astounded by the sum- mons that rung upon their ears in tones clear and unmis ble. “Hands up! men!” And their amazement was intensified when they found themselves surrounded by a cordon of men, whose deadly weapons were leveled on a line with their heads! ln utter bewilderment the garsé at the new-comers, quite unable to accéunt for their sudden appearance on the scene, With a vigilant foe in front, and an inaccessible cliff behind, there was little chance for escape b flight; and as for resistance, though the outlaws out- numbered their pursuers nearly two to one, many of them had carelessly thrown aside their weapons while the others were for the most part too stupefi by drink to think of showing fight. Consequently Headlight Harry’s command re- quired no repetition, for the robbers comprehended how completely a were tra , and elevated their hands withcut delay. thin ten minutes. every man of the rascally Fane was disarmed and secured beyond all possibility of working further mischief. Thus it was that the intrepid outlaw-hunters, who: had sworn to hunt down and capture Nick Nor- man’s band, were enabled to accomplish their pur- Lope without firing asingle shot; and it is needless o say their exultation was urbounded, Thevictory could scarcely be considered complete, for the noto- rious leader, Nick Norman, whose capture was par- . ticularly desired, chancing to be temporarily ab- sent, had renpige rr 2 escaped the fatevof his luck- less followers. It was probable, however, that the redoubtable chief was still somewhere in the imme- diate vicinity, and the hunters were therefore san- guine that a thorough and persistent search would result in his speedy capture. But, while the man-hunters were rejoicing over their bloodless victory, it was suddenly disc: ver ad that one of their number was missing. Roy Neb! :, the ress-messenger, who had figured pr: mi- nently in the expedition, was now conspicuous by his absence. No one had observed his departure, ard therefore the circumstances attending his dis- appearance were involved in deep mystery. In the face of this new difficulty, the search for Nick Nor- man was sag Aa ig abandoned, while the party repared to devote their energies to ascertaining he whereabouts of their missing friend and com- rade, whose mysterions disappearance caused no little surprise and anxiety. While the events just described were pe. place, Nick Norman Re enjoying a few homrs o rest and comfort at his mountain home. quite ob- livious of the fate that had overtaken his band. Of course he expected that great excitement and indig- Surrender, or you are all dead
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ERPS ae ene ii ai ia ORS en ee eee ks = _ iat i a 2 ae ths rea: es P y aa » ’ ny : 5 14 nation would succeed the daring train-robbery, and that a party would doubtless be sent in quest of the offenders; but he little imagined that the citizens would exercise such surprising celerity in ee up the trail. Moreover, so carefully had he coverec his tracks, that he entertained no fear of any party penetrating his retreat, at least not without long and persistent search. The possibility of one of his band turning traitor did not oceur to his mind. So, without thought of immediate peril, the out- law leader left bis men to their own resources for awhile, and turned his steps in the direction of the woodland cabin which was not far away. Highly elated at the success of his caring enterprise, he walked along with buoyant stride, whistling a lively air in the exuberance of Lis joy, his capacious pock- ets bulging with money and valuables taken frm the luckless excursionists, of which he had shrewdly contrived to secure the lion’s share. The fair inmates of the cabin were enzaged in pleasant conversatlon when suddenly Nick Norman’s cheery whistle warned them of his approach. “Tt’s father!”’ cried-Madge, springing quickly to her feet in evident delight. Mabel Melrose started and turned pale at the an- nouncement, much of’ her old fear returning at the thought of again encountering the notorious outlaw. Dismayed, she fled into the inner apartment as Madge hastened outside to welcome her parent. “What, back again so soon, father?” greeted the beautiful girl, as Norman quickly approached, “Yes, pet; but, my stay will be very brief this time,” the outlaw returned, as he fondly caressed his daughter. ‘‘ You know the men are in camp half a mile below, so I thought I would run up to see how you are progressing with your new companion, and at the same time snatch a bite to eat and a few winks of sleep, for I’m sadly in need of both. But what about the girl? She hasn’t eluded your vigi- lance and effected her escape already, I hope?’’ “T thought you had a higher opinion of my ability, father, than to ask such a needless question,” re- plied Madge, in mild reproach. ‘“‘ When you set me So easy a task as this, have no fear that I will fail to perform it faithfully.” “Good girl, Madge! I know you can be trusted ‘every time. But how does the young lady like her new quarters? I trust she is not homesick already.” ‘She accepts the situation far more willingly than I expected. You see, I have explained your ob- object in holding her a prisoner here, at the same time assuring her that she need expect nothing but the best of treatment whiie she remains with me. This has served to dispel her fears; and, indeed, I’m half-inclined to think she is more pleased than otherwise at the opportunity for so romantic an ad- venture.” “Ha ha! I’m glad you are getting ote so smoothly with your fair prisoner,” laughed Nick Norman. * But don’t allow your interest in her to run away with your caution, for her apparent resig- nation may be assumed for the purpose of putting you off your Sak Do not relax your vigilance for an instant, Madge, for this girl is worth a mint of money to us now.” “How much, father?’ ‘* Well, I wouldu’t think of taking less than ten thousand dollars for her ransom, and [ entertain hopes of securing twice thatsum. Uuless I’m great- ly mistaken, old Melrose thinks too much of his fair a to hesitate long over the payment of a few thousands.” . ‘**When will you endeavor to secure this money?” inquired Madge, interestedly. ‘* Not for a few days, at any rate, for last night’s exploit will stir up a regular hornets’ nest about our ears if we're not mighty careful about exposing our- selves to public gaze.” ‘“What! We are in no danger here, I trust, father?” *“Not in the least, child,” declared the outlaw, confidently. ‘‘They will never think of searching for us here. We have merely to lay low for afew oars until the excitement has somewhat abated; then i strike forthe boodle—and get it, too, there’s little doubt about that. Meantime, we must rest content with the proceeds of last night’s work, which by the way, is well worth keepin’, though it’s not a cireum- stance to what will follow if all goes well. See, Madge!”’ Diving into his capacious pockets, Nick Norman produced a double handful of greenbacks which he waved triumphantly. “Feast your eyes on these, pet! I tell you our enterprise panned out magnificently, and no mis- take, Thousands of dollars in cash and jewelry fell to our lot, ‘and the best of it is that I contrived to secure the larger part of the money myself, leaving the boys to divide up the watches and rings and other bulky stuff, for which I have no par- ticularuse. Trust me to arrange matters to my own satisfaction, every time, Ha, ha!” Madge Norman, however, shared little of her father’s elation at the acquisition of so much wealth. “Teare nothing for the money,” she declared, **but Iam glad you were successful in your under- taking for the reason that you will now be able to fulfill the promise you made me,” “What was the promise, Madge?” <5 Why, have you forgotten so soon?’’ reproach- fully, “‘You promised that this should be your last deed of outlawry—that when you had raised a little money you would abandon this wild and law- less life and take me to some distant part of the country, there to begin anew and better career. You know how lonely I am in this cheerless place, and how happy I would be to return to civilization. pes ‘4 father, you will not disappoint me, now!” “No, pet; you shall not be disappointed,”’ and the ‘ Headlight Harry’s Haul outlaw’s reply was quick and decisive.. ‘“‘ Were I all alone in the world, | would like nothing better than to remain here in the mountains, devoting the re- mainder of my life to harassing my enemies. But for your sake, Madge, I have decided to seek ‘ fresh fields and pastures n-w,’ and endeavor to lead a more respectable life in the future.” , “Thank God for that decision! When shall we leave this place, father?’ and the fair girl’s voice trembled with suppressed eagerness, ‘** Just as soon as I complete negotiations with Maurice Melrose in regard to his daughter. The mouey secured from him will be sufficient to give us a royal start in our new career; in fact, it ought to keep us in comfcrt the balance of our existence. But come! I am spending too much time in empty talk, I fear. I don’t like to leave the boys for any length of tfme, but I do caleulate to en- joy a little food and rest before I return, although the opportunity is extremely limited.” Father and daughter entered the cabin together, and Madge immediately set out an appetizing lunch that was quickly devoured by the hungry outlaw. The latter then threw himself upon his own inviting couch, giving directions to be called in an hour’s time, and was almost immediately fast asleep. His was the deep, unbroken slumber of a thor- oughly tired man, and it was with no little regret that Madge aroused him at the expiration of the al- lotted period. Norman was quickly upon his feet, bright and vigorous after his brief but refreshing nap. “T must hurry back to the camp,” he said. ‘ The men may become unmanageable if left alone too long, and I cannot be too cautious. So, good-by, pet, until I return; and don’t forget to take good care of our precious guest in yonder. Guard her as you would a mine of gold, for she is scarcely less valuable. Au revoir !” Tenderly kissing the cheek of his fair daughter, Nick Norman strode hastily from the cabin. Madge followed to the open door, and watched the stal- wart outlaw as he hurried across the clearing and plunged into the gloomy forest. Her beautiful face was illumined by a glorious smile that clearly re- flected the unusval happiness reigning within her bosom. “Can he be really in earnest?” she murmured, “1s it possible that the time I have so long prayed for is now at hand? It seems too good to be true, that, this lonely, perilous life is nearing 1ts end. God grant nothing will occur to swerve dear father from the fulfillment of his promise.” Alas! for pretty Madge Norman and her roseate dreams of future happiness. The solitary existence that she had so long endured for her erring father’s sake was, indeed, destined soon to end, but in a far ditferent manner than she anticipated. Alas! too, for tie outlaw leader’s cherished plans. All too soon were they to be shattered by the ruthless hands of the enemies at that moment diligently engaged in running him to earth. Retributive jus- tice was close upon Nick Norman’s trail, and he was not long in discovering the unexpected danger. Approach'ng the camp of his followers, some sub- tle sense of impending evil caused him to exercise more than ordinary caution, andso he was enabled to learn the true state of affairs without revealing his presence to the foe. It would be difficult, in- deed, to depict the feelings of the outlaw when he beheld his entire band bound and helpless, sur- rounded by men whom he had fondly believed to be many miles away. There was the look of a very demon on his face, as he glared wildly at the scene from his hiding-place in the bushes, and he ner- vously clutched his revolvers as though about to attack his hated enemies, single-handed. But sober second-thought prevented so suicidal a step. and caused Nick Norman to seek safety in immediate flight. Retreating with extreme cau- tion until well out of earshot, hethen broke into a rapid run, shaping his course in the direction of the mountain cabin. Wild-eyed ard haggard. with whirling brain and quickened breath, conscious only of the awful danger that menaced him, he tore along the rugged path like a madman—on, on, with gigantic bounds until he reached the little clearing. Madge Norman still stood in the open doorway. wrapped in contemplative dreams of a blissful future, when the hunted outlaw made his sudden re- appearance. She saw at once from his hasty move- ments and terrified mien that something serious had happened, and quickly came running out to meet him. j “Why, what is the matter, father?’ she inquired, in deep concern, as Nick Norman reached her side, panting and breathless from his headlong run. ‘**Matter?” echoed the Jatter, hoarsely. ‘‘ Every- thing’s the matter, a thousand curses on my infer- nal luck! The cursed bloodhounds are on our track —they have already captured my entire gang, and will probably discover this place within an hour.” “Oh, father! What shall we do?” “Fly further up the mountain-side and trust to luck to escape. It’s our last and only chance. Where is that cursed girl? They sha’n’t have her at any rate!” The outlaw stepped toward the cabin as he spoke, a maniacal glare in his snaky eyes, and in his face the semblance of a very fiend; but Madge, quick to observe his ominous aspect, threw berself deter- minedly before him, ae father! What are you about to do?” she “Out of the way, girl!” yelled Nick Norman, fiercely, S0coripANT Ing the speech by a vigorous push that sent the fair girl reeling from him. She stumbled and fell, with a low ery, and la quite motionless upon the earth; while the infuri- ated outlaw, transformed into a veritable madman, \ 4 bg ‘ 4 7 AU ‘ t¢ . Uhaeh Met et At een te Wea Bee ak Ee, ON Ao oe rr eat 1 eee Fe Ree / ol 4 ba J ate Fike a _ Ee aused not to note the work of his ruthless hand but darted into the apartment where Mabel Melrose now crouched in speechless terror. CHAPTER XV. ROY TO THE RESCUE, Ir will now be necessary to foilow the adventures of Roy Noble, the Express-messenger, whose sud- den disappearance had created no little surprise and alarm among his comrades. When Headlight Harry's trailers left the railroad and plunged into the forest, Roy was still with the party, and no man was more zealous than he in the oor of the train-robbers; but the trail of the atter had not been followed long before he made the unpleasant discovery that the revolver usually car- ried in tis belt was missing. } Considering the fact that this was his only weap- on, the loss was, indeed, a serious one; and, real- izing of what little use he would be to the party without it, he immediately took measures to recover the lost shooting-iron. Only a few moments pre- viously he had met with an ignoble tumble in the at- tempt to surmount a fallen tree, and, as he recalled this incident, it was to feel confident that the re- volver was jostled from his belt at that particular time and place. So, he immediately retraced his steps without saying a word to the others ee his intentions, as he deemed it but the work of a few moments to find the weapon, and then overtake his companions, When Roy reached the fallen tree, near which he expected to find his missing revolver, it was to meet with disappointment, for a minute search failed to reveal any trace of it. However, knowing that it was safe in his belt when he left the car, and conse- quently must be somewhere near, he continued along the rugged trail, closely scanning the ground as he went. Perseverance was at last rewarded, for he found the object of his search lying directly in the path, bright and unsullied, though at a consid- erable distance from the spot where he had first sought it. Again he retraced his steps with all possible haste, though progress was vt ype = slow from the fact that the way was intricate and the trail in places very indistinct, making it imperative for one unfa- miliar with the locality to exercise considerable care to avoid losing the way entirely. Proceeding in this manner, Roy had reached a spot slightly be- yond where he parted from his comrades, when y mere accident, he made a discovery that changed his a completely. , Glancing carelessly from side to side as he hasten- ed along, his keen eye was attracted by a small white object that fluttered from the top of a lofty bush adozen yards from the trail. Prompted by curiosity, the young man fought his way through a mass of tangled briers, and grasped the article that had challenged his attention. A lady’s handkerchief of costly texture, with the monogram ‘ M. M.”’ elabcrately wrought in one cor- ner—such was the objec: at which Roy Noble found himself staring in unspeakable amazement. That the handkerchief was the property of Mabel Melrose he had not the slightest dete: and equally certain it was to his mind that the fair girl had re- cently pass«d near to that identical spot. He was shrewd enough to carefully observe the manner in which the ‘handkerchief was attached to the bush, and reached the eccnclusion that it bad not been blown from the trail, but from a direction precisely opposite. 1¢ outcome, of this conclusion was an immedi- ate search for the further evidence which he be- lieved to exist in that quarter; and so indefati- gably did he pursue his investigations that ere long success rewarded bis efforts. A short distance from the spot where the handkerchief was discover- ed, he came upon another footpath, the course of which was gradually divergent from the first, Close scrutiny of the faintly defined trail satisfied Roy that it had been'traversed quite recently; and no doubt existed in bis mind that this narrow, ie oy Fp J path in the wilderness would, if followed, lead, to the presence of Mabel Melrose. But, suc- ceeding the double discovery, came the question - whether he should continue his investigations alone and unaided, or first endeavor to overtake his late companions, and secure their assistance, Headlight Harry’s party was now far away, in- tent upou” the capture of the train-robbers; though even were they_ within hailing distance, Roy would searcely have dared call to them, lest his cries be heard by the outlaws who weresapposed to be no great distance away, So, after afew moments of doubt and hesitation. the young trailer concluded to keep on alone rather than lose valuable time in hunting up his friends. Accordingly. the youth moved ahead without fur- ther loss of time, eagerly follwane. the sinuous windings of the rugged mountain path until- at last he stood at the edge of a small clearing and saw be- fore him the cabin home of Nick Norman. It was not the mere discovery of the habitation alone, how- ever, that surprised the young trailer, but the fact that standing before him was a young pint of mar- velous grace and beauty—indeed, the fairest being it had ever been his good fortune to s+t eyes upon, Roy had frequently met Madge Norman when she resided in the village, and now. asshe leaned against the door of the cabin only a few paces away, every feature plainly revealed to the tager eyes of the young trailer; he needed but a glance to know that the outlaw’s, daughter and this woodland nymph were identical. ; : It followed, then, that this secluded hut in the forest was Nick Norman's home; and Roy doubted not that the girl he sought was at that moment con- cealed within. As he crouched in the shelter of a * ; p i Aa
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a 6 5 : ingly, as she chafed the girl’s cold hands and ' "4 Acta - Headlicht Harry’s Haul. 15 ised. friendly thicket, feasting his eyes on that rare vision of loveliness, and vaguely wondering what course to pursue, the youth was suddenly startled by the tramp of heavy feet through the underbrush, while an instant later a man bounded into the clearing at a point not a dozen feet from his hiding-place., he new-comer was Nick Norman, panting and breathless from his long, hard run; and Roy knew hy the desperate haste and wild, haunted looks of the outlaw, that something unusual had occurred to destroy his equanimity. He could plainly hear Norman’s words as the latter made known to his startled daughter the fact that his meu were prison- ers, and urged the necessity of instant flight. Then he saw the ruffian rush toward the cabin, ruthlessly hurling aside the frail girl who sought to stay his progress. Up to this moment Roy Noble had remained pass- ive, but when he heard the outlaw’s ominous words and saw him dash like a madman into the hut, he felt that the time for prompt and determined action had arrived, Breaking from cover, he sped across the clearing with quick and powerful bounds. A woman’s scream reached his ears as he ran, and entering the hut he saw Mabel Melrose struggling in the grasp of the infuriated ruffian, Not one instant did the young man pause, but with one tigerish leap hurled himself forward,launch- ing his clinched fist fullin Nick Norman’s face. It was a terrific blow, delivered with all the strength of which the youth was the master, and the outlaw with all his boasted agility was unable to avoid ir, taken as he was completely by surprise. He re- leased his hold on the girl and staggered back, half- stunned, while Roy followed up bis advantage with another blow that sent his enemy to earth. As Nor- man fell, his head encountered the hard floor with such force that he lay quite unconscious, while his conqueror stood over his prostrate form, scarcel realizing that the redoubtable outlaw had, indeed, been so easily placed hors du combat. As for Mabel Melrose, her astonishment at be- holding her friend was only equaled by the joy she felt in the knowledge that she was at last free from Nick Norman’s power; and it is needless to say that she extended a warm and affectionate greeting to her gailant rescuer. There was no time to lose, however, for Roy was anxious to rejoin his late companions and acquaint them with his good fortune; and, as the trailers bad already accomplished the capture of the robber fang, it was possible that they would prepare to leive the vicinity at once, in which case he would be left with a veritable white elephant on his hands. Accordingly, after securely binding the fallen ruf- fian as a preventive of escape should he recover con- sciousness before their return, the young man escorted his fair companion from the place that had for a brief time been her prison. In the excitement of the moment, Madge Norman had been forgotten; but now, as they emerged from the cabin, it was to find the unfortunate girl still lying where she had fallen. With a low ery of sur- prise and horror, Mabel rushed quickly to ber side. “Oh! Tellme, is she dead?’ she asked, ig dso issed her marble brow, ‘No; only stunned, I think,’ returned Roy, after a hasty examination. ‘She will probably soon re- gain her senses, though no thanks to her scoundrel- ly father that che wasn’t killed outright.” He tenderly lifted the unconscious maiden and, carrying her within the hut, laid her gently upon her own downy couch. This done he rejoined his companion, and together they burried from the clearing in the direction from whence Nick Norman had bui recently come. * My friends should not be far away, according to my calculations. Indeed, they may be at this mo- ment within hailing distance. I willtry!” An instant later his voice arose in a lusty shout that fairly made the welkin ring; and, listening at- tentively, an answering cry soon came faintly to their er ears. “Good! The bdys are near and have heard my shout. We will soon be with them, now,” ex- claimed Roy, in elation. He repeated his hail at intervals as they hastened forward, and each time the answer grew in distinct- ness, until at last they reached the outlaw cam and found themse ves in the midst of Headlight Harry’s trailers! As may well be imagined, their appearance created no little surprise, and Roy Noble found himself as- sailed by countless questions, all of which he was =_ zeae and eager to answer. It was with par- onable self-satisfaction that he recounted his ad- ventures, and noted the pleased surprise of his hearers when they learned that Nick Norman was a prisoner. : Without loss of time the entire party started for the mountain cabin, They soon reached the clearing and passed with eager steps through the open door of the cabin, then paused abruptly, exultance suddenly changed to consternation as_they found that the place was abe empty. Both Nick Norman and his beautiful ughter had vanished from the scene! CHAPTER XVI, THE END. It was in vain that the new-comers hunted the cabin for some trace of its recent occupants. Frain left alone put a very short time, they had found it amply sufficient in which to effect their es- cape, and natght remained but the dwelling and its contents to reward the trailers for their journey. ** Well, pard, I fail to discover any signs of your prisoners,” said Headlight ‘agp turning a quizzi- cal glance upon Roy Noble, who looked at that moment the embodiment of disgust and bewilder- ment, ‘In what particular corner did you tuck them away?” “Why, [left them right here, safe enough—both unconscious, too. I don’t see how they managed to get away so quickly,” faltered poor Roy, whose discomfort was something painful to witness. “T alius b’lieved Nick Norman was related to his namesake, Ole Nick, so I reckon he jest dis- solved hisseif into thin air an’ floated away up the chimbly,” was the quaint theory that Rufe Ruffle advanced, “Well, there’s no denying the fact that they’ve vamoosed. Did you leave ’em well tied up, Roy?” “*Ye-es! That is, I didn’t pinion the girl, for she was lying like one dead, and gave no sign of recov- ering her senses for an hour or two at least.” “That explains the mystery,” declared Headlight Harry, grimly. ‘‘The shrewd young lady, instead of being so far gone as you imagined, was probably playing ‘possum, and no sooner had you peg re ed than she cut her beloved sire loose and helped him toescape. Nothing could be easier.” “True! Confound my stupidity! What a fool TI was, to be surc!”? and Roy’s misery was so appar- ent that the others forgot their disappointment and joined in a roar of laughter. The remainder of the party arrived at this mo- ment, and, when it was known how matters stood, luckless Roy Noble became the target for a volley of sarcastic remarks, all of which he received in the yood-natured spirit in which they were given, feel- ing that he richly merited their ridicule by his re- cent lack of caution. ‘““Never mind, Roy,” said Headlight Harry, at length, ‘‘It’s a disappointment, to be sure, but the result will be merely to give Nick Norman an extra bit of rope, and he'll reach the end of it quickly enough. The rascal can’t be far away, and we are bound to run him to earth. He cannot escape us!”’ The trailers were now gathered in a group just outside the hunted man’s cabin, and hardly had Headlight Harry ceased speaking when the sharp, spiteful crack of a pistol broke suddenly upon the air, accompanied by a yell of mortal agony that came from their very midst. It needed but an instant to discover the victim of that mysterious shot. Sneaky Sam. the informer, lay writhing on the ground, the life-blood gushing from an ugly wound in his breast, And, as he fell, a vengeful voice was heard, sounding from a point high above the heads of the startled throng, “Die, Sneaky Sam, like the treacherous dog you are! Your treachery has wrought my ruin, and there is your reward—the just deserts of a traitor! Ha, ba!’ Gazing bewilderedly heavenward, the trailers be- held the well-known figure of Nick Norman perched on the very crest of the lofty cliff. He leaned far over the dizzy verge, holding in one hand a still smoking pistol, while the other was clinched and shaken vigorously at his enemies below. Only an instant did he remain thus, a picture of scorn and defiance. While twenty pairs of ‘eyes lared at the audacious outlaw, and twenty gleam- ing weapons were coming to a line with his stalwart form, a tragedy was enacted so swift, so terrible, so unexpected as to thrill every soul with horror, The edge of the cliff on which Nick Norman erched so precariously was suddenly seen to yield eneath his weight. The man saw his peril and made an herculean effort to save himself, but in vain. He tottered for an instant on the giddy verge, then, with a despairing cry, went down, down through empty space, striking with a sicken- ing thud at the very feet of the trailers. Horror-stricken, they gathered round the luckless outlaw only to find that life was quite extinct. An almost shapeless mass of flesh was all that remained on earth of Nick Norman; and they who gazed upon his remains could but realize how swift and certain was the retribution that had overtaken the assassin. While the trailers stood aghast at the awful tra- gedy that kad been enacted before their eyes, an agonized scream suddenly broke upon the air, and, looking up, they beheld Madge Norman standing at the top of the height. Lean far over the peril- ous cliff, her graceful form outlined gts the sky; the beautiful girl glared wildly down into the clear- ing at the group of hostile men who had invaded her quiet home; then, as her gaze rested upon the form of her father lying so still and lifeless in their midst. she uttered one wild, maniacal cry ard sud- denly turned and fled. A dozen men Fhe pe started in pursuit, only to find that the cliff was quite inaccessible from their position, and much time was wasted before they eventually discovered a roundabout way to the top. Meantime the road-raider’s daughter had ample op- portunity to make her escape, and she covered her tracks so cunningly that, after a long and fruitless pata the pursuers were compelled to return out- witted. Preparations were now made for the return to Richville, for the day was fast waning and Head light Harry was anxious to place his many pris- oners safely in durance vile before nightfall. Asa further precaution against escape, in addition to having their arms pinioned, the gathered-in rogues were now bound closely to each other in couples, a > hg of stout cord found in the cabin being used or this purpose. The bodies of Nick Norman and his victim, Sneaky Sam, were carefully wrapped in blankets, also obtained from the hut. Then, all pronerstions completed, the victorious man-hunters eft the clearing and turned their faces homeward. A long and tiresome tramp was before them, but they pressed on bravely and soon left the mountain cabin far behind. As they pushed steadily ahead through the darkening forest, Headlight Harry’s arty suddenly found themselves face to face with a arge body of armed men, It proved to be the ex- vedition organized by the Richviilians to hunt for orman’s band. They had spent the day in fruit- less search, finally drifting in that direction just in time to encounter their more successful rivals. Their astonishment at this unexpected meeting was complete, and only excelled by their disgust and chagrin at seeing the — snatched from their grasp. However, this disappointment was partial- ly f-rgotten in the general satisfaction at the capture of the train robbers; and therefore, it was without hesita‘ion that the new-comers fraternized with their rival’, ready to congratulate them upon their remarkable victory, When the successful man-hunters entered Rich- ville, just at nightfall, it was to find that the news of their exploits had preceded them. Hundreds of excited citizens surrounded the party, breathing vengeance against the cowering prisoners, and for atime it appeared that Judge Lynch would bave full sway; but, Headlight Harry pusbed forward determinedly, and finally succeeded in lodging his captives within the walls of the jail, safe from the howling populace. The storm of excitement that attended the train- robbery quickly gave way to universal joy and thanksgiving, when it became alg red known that the entire gang of miscreants had been captured in less than twenty-four hours after the perpetration of their crime. Headlight Harry and Rufe Ruffle suddenly found themselves elevated to the plane of heroes in public estimation. Not only had they saved two trains and hundreds of passengers from destruction, but it was through their prompt and resolute action re the robber band was brought so speedily to ustice, As for the munificent reward offered by the rail- road company for the apprehension of the robbers, it was conceded that Headlight Harry’s party had richly earned the , prize; and, accordingly, the amount was promptly paid over and equally divid- ed among the successful trailers. No one questioned Roy Noble’s right to the re- ward offered by Maurice Melrose for the recovery of his daughter, and his many friends were prompt to congratulate him on hig good fortune. However, Roy had another certain object in view, as was evidenced when, on? pleasant morning, he made his way to the private office of the great railroad magnate. The latter greeted him courteously, and said, as he glanced at the card that his visitor had sent in: ‘*T have heard of you before, Mr, Noble, and indeed had expected tosee youere this. I suppose you have come to obtain that reward!” “Such isfar from being my intention, sir,” the Express-messenger promptly declared. ‘I wish to have it understood that my efforts in be- half of your daughter were made with no idea of a money recompense, I Jay no claim to the reward that you have so generously offered, The object of this visit, Mr, Noble, is to speak to you ona far different subject.” ** Well?” “To come to the point at once, sir, I am in love with your daughter, Mabel, and I have every reason to believe that my affection is fully reciprocated. Therefore, I have come to ask your consent to our union, that alone being needed to complete our happiness. May I not hope for a favorable answer to my age To say that Maurice Melrose was surprised at this bold declaration on the part of his youthful visitor, would be to but faintly express hisemotion Being quite unprepared for such a request, Roy’s audacity fairly took the old gentleman's breath away; but he was not long in realizing that his would-be son-in- law was thoroughly in earnest. It is needless to reproduce the long and interest- ing conversation that ensued, enough to say that, when at last Roy Noble emerged from the presence of the railroad magnate, hissmiling face and elas- tic step indicated that the visit had not proved alto- gether fruitless, and therefore it is safe to predict a wedding at no distant day in Which he and fair Mabel will be the parties most particularly con- cerned. Meantime, the community was rapidly recov- ering from the state of excitement into which it had been thrown by the stirring events succeeding the memorable opening of the Belmont Branch, With the notorious Nick Norman lying in the village churchyard, and his scarcely less rascally followers in the law’s relentless grasp, the citizens were to be congratulated upon the prospect of future immunity from the scenes of outlawry and bloodshed that had characterized the past. A party was sent to the mountain haunts of the outlaw chief to search for his missing daughter, but a long and persistent quest revealed not the slightest trace of her whereabouts; and so the fate of beauti- ful, unfortunate Madge Norman promised to remain an impenetrable mystery. As for the captive rogues, they were soon brought to trial and sentenced to long terms of imprison- ment, a punishment which their many misdemean-’ ors richly merited. ; The Railroad Pards, content in the knowledge of brave deeds nobly done, returned to their life of toil and danger, and may be seen daily as they speed along the line, outing the Fast Express. As their eareer is fraught with constant excitement and peril, itis not improbable that they may again be called upon to participate in stirring adventures, in which case they will be true to their record as gal- lant, bold-he knights of the rail. THE END.
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Segre ge Tt if BEADLE’S« H ALF-[JIME*[ JBRARY. Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela. 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 0 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. Deadwood Dick in Disguise: or, Buffalo Ben Wild Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval. Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; or, The Phantom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omaha Ol. 57 Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Parda of Flood Bar. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity Jane, the Heroine. 2? Deadwood Dick’s Last Act; or, Corduroy Charlie. 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville. 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick’« Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. onde Bill. A Game of Gold. or or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base; Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike; 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road. 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel 205 Dendwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Adventure. 217 Captain Crack-Shot, the Girl Brigand. 221 Sugar-Coated Sam; or, The Black Gown, 282 Gold-Duat Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughe, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. 268 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. 609 Deadwood Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. 821 Deadwood Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats. 847 Deadwood Dick’s Ducats; or, Rainy Days in the Dig- | rings. Jendwood Dick Sentenceds or, The Terrible Vendetta Deadwood Dick’s Claim, Deadwood Dick in Dead City. Deadwood Dick’s Diamonds. Deadwood Dick in New Yorks or, A “ Cute Case,” Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand. Deadwood Dick, Jr. Deadwood Dick, Jr’s. Defiance; or, Nickel-Plate Ned. Deadwood Dick, Jr’s. Full Hand. Deadwood Dick, Jr’s. Big Round-Up. Deadwood Dick, Jr's, Racket at Claim 10. Deadwood Dick, Jr's. Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. Deadwood Dick, Jr's. Dog Detective. Deadwood Dick, Jr, in Deadwood; or, Moll Mystery. Deadwood Dick, Jr's. Compact Deadwood Dick, Jr’s. Inheritance, Deadwood Dick's Diggings 3 or, Dr. Death-Grip’s Swoop. Deadwood Dick’s Deliverance, 5 Deadwood Dick's Protegee. Deadwood Dick’s Three. Deadwood Dick’s Danger Ducka, Deadwood Dick's Death Hunt, Deadwood Dick Jr. in Texas, Deadwood Dick, Jr. the Wild West Vidoeq. Deadwood Dick on His Mettle. Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Gotham, Deadwood Dick tn Boston, Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Philadelphia, Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Chicago. 578 Deadwood Dick, Jr. Afloat. BS4 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Denver, Deadwood Dick, Jr's, Decree. Deadwood Dick Jr. in Beelzebub’s Basin, Deadwood Dick Jr. at peg oot Island, Deadwood Dick Jr’s Leadville Lay. 612 Deadwood Dick Jr. in Detrolt. 618 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Cincinnati. Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Nevada. Deadwood Dick, Jr. in No Man’s Land, Deadwood Dick, Jr. After the Queer. 642 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Buffalo. 648 Deadwood Dick, Jr's. Chase Across the Continent. 654 Deadwood Dick, Jr. Among the Smugglers, 660 Dead-vood Dick, Jr’s. Insurance Case. 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr. Back in the Mines, 672 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Durango; or, “ Gathered In.” 678 Deadwood Dick, Jr’. Discovery; or, Found a Fortune. 684 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s. Dazzle. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. 82 Bob Woolf or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 89 Death-Fuce, Detective; or, Life in New York, 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 568 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team. 69 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The Boy Detective, 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand. 88 Phetograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance. 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp, 96 Watch-Eye; or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City. 118 Jack Hoyle the Young Speculator. 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 121 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. 125 Benanza Bill, Mfner. 188 Boss Bob the King of Bootblacks, 141 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. 145 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Gjrl Detective. 177 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, The Sierras Scamps, 181 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo. 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective, 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter, 226 Snoozer, the Boy Sharp; or, The Arab Detective, 286 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gadiator. R24 Blerra Sam, the Frontier Ferret. 248 Slerra Sam’s Secret; or, The Bloody, Footprints, 258 Sierra Sam’s Pards or, The Angel of Big Vista, 258 Sierra Sam's Seven; or, The Stolen Bride. 278 Jumbo Joey the Boy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs, 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen, 281 Denver Doll's Victory. 285 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. Denver Doll’s Drift; or, The Road Queen. A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. *Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. Kelley, Hickey & ©o., the Detectives of Philadelphia, Little Quick-Shot; or, The Dead Face of Daggersville, Kangaroo Kits or, The Mysterious Miner. 9 Kangaroo Kit’ Racket. Hanbettas Mike, the Bowery Blood. First-Class Fred, the Gent from Gopher. 868 Vreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Life Lottery. 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize. 878 Nabob Ned; or, The Secret of Slab City. B82 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 885 Yreka Jim’s Joker} or, The Rivals of Red Nose. 889 Bicycle Ben; or. The Livn of Lightning Lode, 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Harry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Slabaides, the r-Boy Detective, - Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives, 8 Santa Fe Sal, tho Slasher. 6 Sealskin Sam, the Sparkler. BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, r 7 The Flying Yankee}; or, The Ocean Ontcast. Z Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccancer; or, The Fugitive Yacht, il Mamond Dirk: or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone, 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants, 75 The Boy Duelist; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wolf, 102 Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Sinuggier. 111 The Sea-Devil; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy, 216 The Mussar Captain ; or, ‘Ihe Hermit of Hell Gate, 197 Little Grit; or, Bes the Stock-Tender’s Daughter. 204 Gold Plume; or, The Kid-Glove Sport. 216 Bison BIL, the Prince of the Reins, 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer, 229 Crimson Kate; or, The Cowboy’s Triumph, 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 245 Merle, the Middy ¢ or, The Freelance Heir. 250 The Midshipman Mutineer; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer. 264 The Floating F eather: Merle Monte’s Treasure, 26% The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned. 276 Merle Monte’s Cruise; or, “ The Gold Ship” Chase, 280. Merle Monte’s Fate; or, Pearl, the Pirate’s Bride, 284 The Sea Murauder; or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. 287 Billy Blue-Eyes, the Boy Rover of the Rio Grande. 804 The Dead Shot Dandy ; or, Benito, the Boy Bugler. 808 Keno Kit; or, Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. The Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Trail, Bonodel, the Buy Rover; or, The Flagless Schooner, The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island. Warpath WII, the Boy Phantom. Seawnalf, the Boy Lieutenant. Inodor, the Young Con«pirator ; or, The Fatal League, The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta, The Wild Yachtamans; or, The War-Cloud’s Cruise, Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. A Cabin Boy’s Luck; or, The Corsair. The Sea Ralder. The Ocean Firefly ; or, A Middy’s Vengeance. Haphazard Warry; or, The Scapegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizard WII: or, Tie Boy Ferret of New York. 454 Wizard WIIl’s Street Scouts, 462 The Born Guide; or, The Salior Boy Wanderer. 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Coaster. 474 Floras or, Wizard Will's Vagabond Pard. Ferrets Afloat; or, Wizard Will’s Last Case, Nevada Ned, the Revolver Ranger. 5 Arizona Joe the Boy Pard of Texas Jack. Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. The Royal Middy ; ‘or, The Shark and the Sea Cat, The Hunted Midshipman, 511 The Outlawed Middy. 5620 Buckskin BIL, the Comanche Shadow. 625 Brothers in Buckskin. 580 The Buckskin Bowers. 585 The Bue’ skin Rovers. Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder of the Rio, Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte, Lafitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. The Creole Corsair. Pawnee Bill, the Prairie Shadower. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. Camille, the Card Queen. The Surgeon-Scout Detective. The Outcast Cadet; or, The False Detective. The Buckskin Avenger. Delmonte, the Young Sea-Rover. 507 The Young Texan Detective. The Vagabond of the Mines. The Rover Detective; or, Keno Kit’s Champions. Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scout; or, The Rio Raiders. 644 The Hercules Highwayman. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Rider Detective; or, Buffalo Bill’a Boy Para. 656 6 Butterfly Biliy’«s Man Hunt. 662 Butterfly Billy’« Bonanza. 668 The Buccaneer Midshipman, 674 The Wizard Sailor; or, Red Ralph, the Rover. 679 The Sea Shadower; or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. 686 Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag; or, The Tarnished Name. BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm. F. Cody). 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairie, 65 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout. 68 Border Robin Hoody or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Faney Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust. BY CHARLES MORRIS, 18 Will Somers, the Boy Detective. 22 Phil Hardy, the Boss Boy. 26 Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. 80 Detective Dick; or, The Hero in Rags. 2 Handsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, 7 Will Wildfire, the Thoroughbred. Black Resa, Wil) Wildfire’s Racer. Mike Merry, the Harbor Police Boy. 2 Will Wildfire in the Woods, 5 Billy Baggage, the Railroad Boy. 0 A Trump Card; or, Will Wildfire Wins and Loses, 4 Bob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York. 9 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner, 8 The Hidden Wand; 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 Biack Sheep of the Flock, 225 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky. 2535 Shadow Sam, the 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 Job; or, The Young Detective. 298 The Water-Hound; or, The Young Thoroughored. 805 Dashaway, of Dakota; or, A Western Lad in Quaker City. 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 Bill rick, the Jolly Vagavond. 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive, 479 Detective Dodge; or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty. 488 Wild Dick' Racket. 501 Boots, the Boy Fireman or, Too Sharp for the Sharper, 566 The Secret Service Boy Detective. 596 Jimmy the Kid; or, A Lamb Among Wolves, 627 Tom Bruce of Arkansas: or, The Wolf in the Fold, 655 Plucky Paul, the Boy Speculator. 667 Bob and Sam, the Daisy Detectives. eeeteetieettaenticediaeetientaattenientiaadicetia BY OLL COOMES. 5 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 Jackgthe Young Mustanger. 58 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. ; Hawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ranger, Rollo, the Boy Ranger. : Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman. i Sear-Face Saul, the Silent Hunter Silver Star, the Boy Knight. Eagle Kit, the Boy Demon. 168 Little Texas, the Young Mustanger, 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain. 202 Prospect Pete ; or, The Young Outlaw Hunters, 208 The Res Hercules: or, The Prairie Tramps. 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dick; or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson De tective; or, The Little Ranger, 248 The Diaguised Guides or, Wild Raven, the Ranges, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger, 272 Minkakin 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; or, Old Polar Saul. 468 Tamarac Tom, the Big ig 2 Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic, 482 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Trojan. 562 Blundering Baafl, the Hermit Boy Trapper, 652 Don Barr, the Plains Freelance. 661 Old Kit Bandy’s Deliverance. 670 Norway Nela, the Big Boy Mountaineer. 680 Dauntless Dan, the Freelance, or, Old Kit Bandy in Arcadia, RY T. ©. HARBAUGH. 28 Nick o’ the Night}; or, The Boy Spy of ’76. 87 The Hidden Lodge; or The Littl Hunter. AT Nightingale Nat; or, Tne Forest Captains, 64 Dandy Jack; or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trali, 82 Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack 3 or, The Boy Trapper, 106 Old Froaty, the Guide; or, The W hite Queen, 128 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch, Jr.: or, The Boy Vigilante. 155 Gold Trigger, the Sport; er, The Girl Avenger. 169 Tornado Tom; or, inna Jack From Red Core, 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy. 198 Arkanaaw : or, The Queen of Fate’s Revenge. 20T Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain Bullet 3 or, Little Tonknot’s Crusade, 281 Plucky Phil; or. Rosa, the Red Jezebel. 241 Bill Bravo; or, The Roughs of the Rockies. 255 Captain Apolin, tne King-Pin of Bowie. 267 The Buckskin Detective. 279 Old Winch; or, The Buckskin Desperadoes. 294 Dynamite hens or, The Bowle Blade of Gochetopa. 802 The Mountain Detective: or, The Trigger Bar Bully. 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizona, 826 The Ten Pardes; or, The Terror of Take-Notice, 886 Big Benson; or, The Queen of the Lasso. 845 Pitiless Matt; or, Red Thunderbolt’s Secret. 856 Cool Sam and Pard; or The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlass; or, The Buccaneer’s Girl Foe, 896 Rough Rob; or, The win Champions of Blue Blazes. 411 The Bilken Lasso; or, The Rose of Ranch Robin. 418 Felix Fox, the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump. the Border Rattler. 486 Phil Fla«h, the New York Fox. 445 The City Vampires; or, Red Rolfe’s Pigeon. 461 One Againat Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. A?T The Exceialor port; or, The Washington Spotter. 499 Bingle Right, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night Ferret. 512 Dodger Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective. 521 Dodger Dick’« Best Dodge. 528 Fox and Falcon, the Bowery Shadows. 588 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret. 548 Dodger Dick’« Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives, 558 Dodger Dick’s Deaperate Case. 568 Dodger Dick, the Boy Vidocq. 578 The Two Shadows. 582 Dodger Dick’s Drop. B9A Little Lon, the Street-Singer Detective. 610 Old &kinner, the Gold Shark; or, Tony Sharp on Guard, 626 The Champion Pards. 687 Dick Doan, the Dock Boy Detective. 645 Kit, the Pavement Sharp. 658 Billy Bantam, the Boy Beagle. 671 Jersey Ted, the Boy Hustler; or, Shadowing the Shadower. 685 Happy Hugh, the Boy-Musician Detective. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 688 Chincapin 'Dan’s Home Stretch; ox, The Conspiratore of No Man’s Land. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 689 Billy, the Gypsy Spy; or. Working Out the Mystery of Two Lives. By Lieutenant A. K. Sims. 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dollars; or, The Humming Bird of Honeysuckle. By Edward L. Wheeler. 691 Headlight Harry’s Haul; or, The Railroad Pards’ Big Day. By A. F. Holt. 692 Redfern, the Revolver Sharp} oF, The Gold Miners? Boy Pard. By Col. P. Ingraham, Ready October.28. 698 The Posy Parda—Violet Vane and Daisy Dare > or, The Recket at Red Hot. By Wm, G, Patten. Ready November 4. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half. Dime Library 1s for sale by all newsdealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents each, BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street New Yorks