Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 721) (1891 05 19)
The text was read from the page scans by machine (OCR), so it has mistakes and its columns may run together. See the pages · About this title · At the Internet Archive
Page 1
a ‘(camer Re } : .) "> N a ; <a WS as Second C ings | Matt-r at the Ne (21. £2.50 a “Year. ost omiee. No. 8 w WILLIAM STREET, N NEW YORK, ONG No i Ia" m Ti YOUNG RANCHER ‘STOOD AS IF SPELLBOUND, FASCINATED BY THE STRANGE BEAUTY, War IT POSSIBLE THIS WAS THE ROBBER QUEEN/ PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Jerre Zé v/a Ss May 19, 1891. Price, & Cents. A ROMANCE OF ARIZON BY WILL LISENBEE, —_— CHAPTER L./ av ‘* THE DESERT. FOUNTATY,” | “You are well acquainted =n th try?” 7h if Si, senor. f “ And you can: guide Urkos Pass?” “To any place in Ariz ‘We shall want t th them?” ‘* A dozen if you “Very well, thre I Ni \ l) i H il Hil Hol XXVIIL IY IV Mh oi i | [|
Page 2
Tag tr eating rifle of the most improved : the ol - rod Lv tC ve, ‘*That willdo, How much am I to pay you for your services?” ‘* And tbe burros?” “ Yes.” ‘It is dangerous traveling in the mountains,” “*T admit that.” **Los Apaches !” ‘** 1f you are afraid I will get another guide.” ** No—no, senor—J’m not afraid—but itis worth more when there is danger—great danger.” ‘* Very true!” **T ought to have a hundred dollars—” “‘Very well, I shall expect you here by sun- rise. You may go.” With a low bow the Mexican guide turned and walked from the veranda, and Frank Hammond was alone, He was a young man, not over twenty-three, of medium build, with light bair and deep blue eyes. His face was beardless, his complexion as delicate as that of a woman, yet beneath that mild exterior lurked a dauntiless spirit, unflinch- ing courage and great physical strength and ac- tivity. e wore a suit of light gray material fitted closely about his well-proportioned orm. Frank Hammond had just arrived in Desert City, a little mining-town that lies near the foot- hills of the Sierra Madre Mountains, in South- east Arizona. He had come directly from Kansas City to join his father, who was the owner of a large cattle ranch which lay fifty miles from Desert City. He had traveled by stage from Tombstone that morning, and had been looking for some one to guide him across tbe mountains to bis father’s ranch, In the af- ternoon a Mexican, claiming to be a guide, bad come to the young traveler at the hotel, and of- fered his services, This led to the conversation with which our story opens. Frank Hammond was seated on the piazza of the ‘‘ Montezuma Hotel,” a low, adobe struc- ture with wide, sweeping verandas on three sides, and boasted of being the only hotel in Desert City. The day was intensely hot—for it was mid- summer, and few people wereastir in that sleepy littletown, Now and then a Mexican ox-cart would golumbering slowly along the dingy street, and here and there could be seen a few villain- ous-looking “ Greasers” and half naked Indians, moving leisurely through the town. ‘* It seams strange that father did not meet me here, as he promised,” mused Frank, throwing the stub of a cigar from his lips. ‘‘ He shoul have been here yesterday. . “I think something has happened to him.” He drew a letter from’ his pocket as he spoke, and for the third or fourth time read as follows: _“ Desert Crry, NA, be “June 1, 18—. ““My Dear Son:—I have just got settled on my new ranch fifty miles southeast of this maa have already sold the one on the Pecos, in New Mex- - ico, and shall make this my futurehome, Sol have So east ast decided to have you come as soon as possible, Come to City, via Tombstone, and I will meet hate Kring hree weeks from an appen to me oom that. time, you can easily secure a de who can across mountains, our nearest route will be to take the old Zuni trail from here, and follow it to the Urkos Pass, then leave it and trav t out for twenty-five miles. Hoping to see you at the appointed time, I am “ Your affectionate father, * bir Ricuarp Hammon.” ‘Yes, [ must start for the ranch to-morrow,” Frank mused, as he replaced the letter in his pocket, ‘‘ Those devils of Apaches are on the rampage again, andI fear father has encoun- tered some of them on bis way here.” He rose from his seat and paced restlessly up and down the little piazza. | “ Presently he heard footsteps approaching, an turning, beheld a Faye ison old man stand- ing before him. Tae stranger was fully six feet in hight, and evidently was possessed of great muscular strength. A pair of keen gray eyes red out from beneath bis broad-rimmed hat. is face was nearly hidden by a short growth of dark whiskers which were sprinkled with * gray. "He was dressed in the garb of the typi- ‘eal prospector, and looked as if he had seen the Tuch side of life. A brace of heavy pistols or- @'-yented his belt, while in his hand he carried ttern, ft name’s Hammond, I reckon?” saluted man, - You guessed it the first time,” replied Frank, | 2 look of surprise on thé stranger. “ But ist? learn my name?” said I guessed it,” grinned the old ‘Yes; but how?” laughed Frank. ‘*Mebby I heard you talkin’ to the proprietor of the hotel this mornin’—” ** That is very likely.” ‘An’ mebby I heard you ask if a man by yn name of Hammond bad come here yester- ay— ** Well” ‘Used to live on the Pecos, in New Mexico?” “Then you kaow my father!” exclaimed Frank, “IT know’d a man by the name of Richard Hammond,” “He is my father! Have you seen him? Is he in town?” “You can’t be a son of the Hammond I know,” the stranger observed, ignoring Frank’s questions, ‘* Why do you think that?" “Cause you hain’t got none of his judg- ment,” ‘Perhaps not; but that has not yet been proven.” ** Yes it has,” ** How do you mean?” ** You just now hired a guide ?” Ae Se a ‘An’ a Greaser !” “ Yes—” A low Jaugh escaped the old man’s lips, ““Tll be dinged if you hain’t got lots to Parn about this yere country, young feller,” said the old man, *‘ an’ fore you’re hyar very long you’ll Varn to have nothin’ to do with them onery cusses —that is, if you don’t git a knife in your back before you have a chance to l’arn.” “Look here, ming A returned Frank, a little impatiently. ‘‘ Your advice may be well meant and all that, but, don’t you lose any sleep on my account, I am amply able to take care of myself, I believe you know something about my father which you could tell me if you will. If you will not, it is useless for us to bandy words over the matter.” “Tl be dinged if you ain’t a son of your dad’s!” admitted the old fellow, advancing and extending bis band. “I know your father, I was working on a ranch on the Pecos when I first saw him.” ** You bave not seen bim lately?” ‘* No; not since he left the Pecos Ranch,” ‘* He promised to meet me here yesterday, but it seems he never came. I shall start for the ranch to-morrow morning.” ‘** Across the mountains?” “ Yes.” ‘¢Tt’ll be a dangerous journey. You may run onto some Apaches,” “You are right, and a Greaser is a poor per- son to nn pee upon in time of danger.” ‘* That’s correct,” wee I could get you to aecompany me a ; “T was jist goin to offer my services,” “*T will pay you liberally.” “Then I won’t go.” ‘What do you meanf” questioned Frank, in astonishment. ** Nothin’; only I don’t want no pay. Your father did me a good turn once-—up the Pecos, an’ I don’t mind takin’ a run over to his ranch with you, if you’re willin’.” ‘‘ Just as you please about the pay,” replied mk, 8 thast tevtstaly be glad to We yon with me,” ‘Then Pll Ey" “Very well, We start at sunrise to-mor- row, “That will suit me to a tee. But, I hain't told # my name—” oO, ‘Well, jist call me Nat. They used to call me Nathan Barker, but when I come to Arizony I jist b’iled it down to Nat. A man don’t have much use for a name out here, anyhow, I hain’t had no use for mine yit, but I reckon a feller feels better to have some kind of a handlg to go by. Wal, I must be movin’, [gota cabin up the holler. I reckon [ll go an’ be packin’ up for the ik Will you walk up with me?” “No, I thank aa Nat; | don’t feel like mov- ing about much in this bake-oven atmosphere.” + Then I'll see you to-night when the sun goes down,” and with this Nat Barker strode up the street. Although few people were astir in Dasert wr during the day, the same could not be said of it at nig for scarcely had the flery down, when a m: sun gone 1 change took place. The streets became thronged with people, eee, saloons and gambling-places were crowded. __ Lighting a cigar, Frank Hammond strolled leis- urely down the busy street, He passed through the busiest part of the town, and so absorbed was he in thought, that before he was aware of the fact he was in the outskirts of the “ city,” He turned to retrace his steps, when, sudden- nb a dark form sprung toward him; he caught the eps of a knife in the starlight; but leaping quickly aside, Frank dealt his assailant a blow that sent him staggering against the wall of an adobe shanty, Frank then quickly drew bis pistol, but before he could bring it into action, the would-be assas- sin turned, and dodging behind the building, disappeared in the darkness. But in the brief glance he bad obtained of the desperado, Frank recognized the Mexican guide he had engaged that evening! “ Well, Th be hanged!” muttered Frank, as he walked back to the hotel. ‘‘I believe Nat was right about those Greasers, I’m glad I found out this one in time, I must see Nat and tell him of my adventare, and have bim secure some burros for us. I don’t think I care to employ that guide. He walked swiftly up the street_and was soon passes in front of the ** Desert Fountain” Sa- oon. ‘Perhaps I shall find Nat in bere,” he thought, turning and entering the open door. The room was filled with a mixed crowd of old miners, gamblers, cowboys and Mexicans, Ra the front part of the long, dingy room was a bar which) was receiving liberal patronage. Further back were several gambling-tables, surrounded by an eager crowd, and money was being staked freely. As Frank entered the place a shaggy-bearded man of about thirty-five, with a pair of heavy pistols sticking in bis belt, approached the bar and ordered a drink of the ‘‘ worst p’izen in the place,” ; “There was an evil look about his face, and it was evident by the way the customers at the bar gave him room that he was a bully of some sort. ‘* Hello, Mockton!” saluted the’ bartender, familiarly, shaking hands with the new-comer. ‘* Where have you been keeping yourself?” ‘‘Been out rounding up tenderfeet for the fool-killer!” blurted Mockton, as he poured his liquor into the ASS, ** Well, I reckon ov got enough for a ship- ment,” laughed the bartender, i, “Yes, I done a “ef fair business —” then, as his eyes fell on Frank Hammond, he added: “Tm id 1 overlooked a Maverick, though,” and he nodded significantly at Frank, = The crowd in the room broke into a roar of laughter at this, and all eyes were turned on Frank. But if aware that the words were theant for him, Frank’s countenance failed to ow it,” | _ Young man,” continued Mockton, “ you look as if you might have been raised on buttermilk, Come up to the bar and let me put my brand ou, ere you speaking to me?” questioned Frank, sivdibentiy turning on Mockton, “ Well, now, that’s pretty cool,” grunted the bully—for ton was a bully, and few men in Desert City cared tocross him—*‘ I reckon you'll learn to listen when J talk, before you leave this town.” ‘You must be something of an orator,” sug- gested Frank, sarcastically, “ Well, yes /” blurted Mockton, his voice risin ina as he spoke, ‘‘and when a pale-bair skunk like you gets sassy, I just stand him on bis head *, a spittoon till t The crowd again broke into a roar of laughter. rg ha ager believed that Mockton was going to furnish t of the stranger. this speech from the standers whispered to Th ‘ed him to wilt at “1 in and one of the by- ockton not to be too hard on the tenderfoot at first, as he might be frightened away. They exchan glances of mond re- surprise, however, when Frank lied : “T believe your speeches to be like your threats—all wii.” ae ah You impudent little skun an eT ae infuriated Mockton; ‘*do you thin take such sass without ing the floor with you?” 0) oo your ‘trying it,” corrected You dont thin Lean. dot do your if »you want) Ce ‘ ” queried Hammon’, merrily. ote You seem to be. a better talker than you are fighter.” _ | A murmur of surprise went Suongh ‘the | crowd at this stead of weakening, as they all e: ted. roung fellow was poking actually n at the bully. With teres oath, and clinching his fist, the rank, get through with my em some rare sport at the expense,
Page 3
oS ee + —_4_, Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective, 3 ruffian rushed at Frank, but before he could cover the space soparating them, Frank leaped like a flash and struck the bully a blow in the left tomple, knocking him over a chair and land- ing him sprawling upon the floor. So quickly had it all happened that the sur- spectators had hardly time to realize what ad taken place before the discomfited Cham- pion of Desert City lay at their feet. But scarcely had Mockton touched the floor, when he was up sgain, and with a furious cry drew a pistol from his belt, But, as he turned on the etre, his eyes met the gleam of one Steel! rank Hammond had him “ cov- ered. “Don’t try any of that on me!” warned Frank, in a calm voice. ‘‘ You have forced this quarrel upon me, and I have simply acted in self-defense. Don’t tempt me to go further.” A cry of baffled rage escaped Mockton, The crowd surged about the two men, Suddenly Frank felt some one p bis arm and turn bis istol downward, Then, quick as a flash, and fore he could disengage his arm from the grasp of the stranger, Mockton raised his pistol and beveled it at the young man’s breast. The next instant there was a loud report, then the sound of a heavy body falling to the floor. CHAPTER II. A SURPRISE. INSTANTLY there came the crack of another revolver—six times in rapid succession, followed by the crashing of glass, and the room was in total darkness, Some one had shot out the a. xclamations of surprise came froin the surg- ing crowd; knives and pistols were drawn, and a scene of the greatest excitement ensued, “Gentlemen,” called out the saloon-keeper, in a loud voice, * ab keep perfectly quiet till I strike a light, There’s no cause to get ex- cited,” In a few moments a light was made, and the crowd of excited citizens gathered around the form of the man lying on the floor, ‘*IT reckon be won’t tackle me ‘again, soon,” “observed Mockton, grimly, But a cry of astonishment came from the men bey od over the prostrate figure on the floor. ** Bill Mockton,” said one of them, turning about, ‘“‘ what does this mean? You have shot Renee, Wigains instead of the stranger!” ” at! what is that you ry 4 ejaculated the bully, a pallor overspreading his face. “You have shot Beans Wane led Bushy Smith, the city m . “How did this n h ? th = Timeusd beaaa, spcdenieg C) ,” answ approac and bending over the wounded man, A groan came from the man on the floor; he opened his eyes and raised himself to a sitting posture, the blood trickling from a wound across his forehead, Water was brought, and when the blood was washed from his face, it was found that the bul- let bad only glanced across his forehead, cutting au ogy furrow as it went, “*Tain’t hurt you much,” said one of the men assisting the wounded man to his feet, “ but it war a perty close call,” “Curse your awkward hide!” cried Wiggins, turning to Mockton; “is this the way you treat ® falis> that’s helpin’ you out of a scrape?” “Tt wasn’t my fault, Sandy,” declared Mock- ton, apologetically. ‘‘ Some one struck my arm just in the nick of time. Curse him, I'll get even with him for bis smartness.” He ba ho was it?” asked the, a a “ He’s astranger to me, nded Mockton “a tall man with short gray whidkine? wy ‘*ft’s the fellow I’ve seen saunterin’ around town for the past few days,” cried the marshal. “ Where is the rascal?’ asked another, In the excitement of the moment all had for- gotten Frank | had shot out the lights, Hurriedly the crowd | miate about the room, The two strangers had disa 1 ** Curse them both!” ockton, “ Til pey them for this night’s work, if it takes a life- me “Gentlemen,” observed the saloon-keeper, ‘I reckon it’s my treat, Come up, everybody, an’ _takeasipo’ nectar, Then we'll talk matter _ over.” Then th of the crowd gathering ences, cer up to the bar, followed by the clinking of many z, yo’ Te % - A balf hour later two men a little _ Cabinthat nestled among the bills, a mile from * Hammond and the stranger who Desert City. They were Frank Hammond and Nat Barker. ** Jist meck yourself at. home,” observed Nat, lighting a lamp and placing it on a pine box that served as a table. ‘‘I reckon we’ll jist spend the night here, and start for the ranch in the mornin’,” **T ought to have stayed in town,” declared Frank. ‘‘ That cowardly bully will think he has driven me away.” ‘*Let him think,” remarked Nat, ‘I guess we can afford it, jist now. Ding my cats, if them rascals wouldn’t ’a’ fixed you if I hadn’t’a’ happened in jist when I did. ockton would ’a’ plugged you sure, while that other cuss held your arms,” ‘*- You are right, Nat; I was in a deuced close place.” ** Yes, and that Mockton has a gang of cut- throats about him, and not one of ’em would hesitate to commit murder. Weare both stran- gers here, and it’s best to keep out of trouble if we can.” ** Yes, that is best, I suppose,” admitted Frank, ‘and I thank you for the service you have ren- dered me,” “You needn’t mention it, It ain’t my nature to see a feller imposed upon, and when I saw they weren’t goin’ to eu you a fair show, I jist slid in. But you did knock Mockton out in a way that did me good to see. Where’d you Paro to hit sich sledge-hammer blows?” ‘* We used to practice that sort of business at school,” laughed Frank. ‘‘ It seems that a man’s education stands him in good stead even in Ari- zona, ** I'd say it did,” chuckled Nat, : ‘* What was this Mockton’s object in picking a quarrel with me?” “T can’t tell exactly, but it’s his way, though he might ’a’ had some special object in this case ‘* Well, whatever his object was, he didn’t seem to accomplish it.” “No; notin the way he expected, I reckon,” laughed Nat, ‘* Nat,” said Frank, ‘‘ I didn’t tell you that a Mexican desperado attacked me with a knife to- night, He intended to rob me, I es gt “*Great Christopher Columbo! but you're havin’ a lively time.” ‘“* Yes, but he failed to catch me napping.” **T see he did, or you wouldn’t be here. ** And I recognized him before he escaped.” “ Ty ae th Mexi de I had engaged t was the Mexican guide to take me across the mountains!” **The blazes!” j “Yes; and now I am under the necessity of tting some one else to take us to the ranch,” ‘* Tt is no more than I e . These Greasers are treacherous as ole Satin,” ‘Can you get us some animals?” “Yes, I think I can. There isa ranch a few ‘miles from here where they have a lot of burros and horses,” ** Then we must go there early in the morning and see what can be done,” J It was Jate when the two men retired. The sun was shining brightly when they awoke, They ate a burried breakfast and began to make preparations for their journey. ‘*How long have you been in this place?” asked Frank. ye ‘Only about a week or two,” was the reply. ‘“*T was jist knockin’ about the country, and dis- covered this ole cabin here and no one in it, so [ jist settled down for a spell. I reckon I could a’ found a better place as far as society is con- cerned, but I may want to transact a little busi- ness before I leave here for good.” “T believe’ you could have found a_place where the society is better,” laughed Frank that is—judging by the experience I have had since my arrival, : F _ Ina short time they were ready to begin their journey. ‘* Do you think weshall encounter any Apaches on our way across the mountains?” questioned Frank as the two set out over the low sandy bills in the direction of the ranch Nat had spoken of the night before, ‘‘I hear they are on the war-path again.” * ell, we may run across some of the smokies, admitted. Nat, “but the Government troops have been ordered out from Fort Grant, to go and put down, the outbreak, and this may = red imps to keep a little shy for a few wee “‘P’m not anxious to encounter’ old Geronimo,” admitted k, “Pye read of him in the papers. which is as close an acquaintance as I care about making with him.” r It was full six miles from Nat’s cabin to the if glued to the s ranch to which they were traveling, and as the sun rose higher and higher above the dreary waste of sandy hills, Frank became almost pros- trated with the intense heat, ‘* Whew! this is simply roasting weather!” he exclaimed, looking about for some sort of shade in which to escape the fiery rays of the sun. ‘** Let us stop and cool off a little, Nat—that is, if we can find a bush large enough to furnish us a shade,” ‘All right,” assented Nat, ‘‘I guess you're not used to sich weather as this, and we’ll have to take it a leetle slow at first. Come this way.” And the old fellow led the way to the top of a little hill where a solitary jack-oak stood like a sentinel amid the sun-scorched sands, On reaching the spot they threw themselves in the shade, grateful to escape the burning sun for even a brief period, Nearly five miles away, in the plain below, lay Desert City, its clusters of irregular adobe buildings plainly visible through the clear air. Far to the east lay a spur of the Sierra Madre Mountains, stretching far to the south across the border into old Mexico, As the two travelers lay gazing down the gentle slope toward the little town, Nat uttered a cry of surprise, ‘* ‘What is it?” asked Frank. “Look!” and Nat pointed to a number of horsemen which were moving up the old trail from Desert City. **Who can it be?’ questioned Frank, “ and where do you suppose they are going?” For some time Nat was silent, then, turning to bis companion, he said: ‘* Now that’s jist what [don’t know. It puz- zles me to understand it.” ‘They are coming this way and riding at a allop.” ** T’'ll be hanged if they ain’t.” ‘* Well, we shall soon know what is up,” replied Frank, ‘‘ for they will be here in a short time.” A silence fell between the two men which was only broken by the sound of a faint breeze in the branches overhead. As the advancing party drew near, it was dis- covered that every man carried a rifle slung across his saddle. ‘“*There must be Apaches around,” observed — casting a questioning glance at his com- panion, But, Nat shook his head, a grave look settling over bis face, Presently the tramp of horses’ feet could be heard, then a dozen armed horsemen galloped up the slope, and spurred their panting horses up to where the two men ie The was headed by the city marshal and Bill Mockton. ‘There the rascals are!” cried Mockton, point- ing to Frank and Nat, and instantly a dozen guns were leveled at the two men, Frank and Nat had risen to their feet, and stood confronting the party, a look of astonish- ment on their faces, ‘¢ What does this mean?” demanded Frank, in a calm tone. ‘Tt means this,” blurted Mockton, “that you are both our prisoners. We arrest you for the robbing of the Tombstone Stage last night and for the murder of two passengers !” CHAPTER IIL | THE PLOT THICKENS. Nat BarKER and Frank Hammond stood as t, a look of utter astonishment sweeping over their faces. Nat was the first to speak. “Say fellers, ain’t you a little off your ker- base?” he questioned, eying the men critically. “That is for the judge to decide,” replied the marshal, Then, turning to Mockton, he said: (- Se eg one of the men and disarm the prisoners while we keep ’em covered.” ‘ Mockton threw himself from his saddle, and approaching Frank, laid his hand upon his shoulder. } “Hand over ce pistols,” he demanded, sharply, giving the young man a rude shake, ‘“* Tf you make any bad breaks we'll bore a dozen holes in your onery carcass,” As he spoke he attempted to take the Is from Frapk’s belt, but the next moment te re- ceived a stinging blow from the young man’s fist which sent bim staggering backward, while, quick as a flash Frank drew his pistol, but the next moment he roceived a beavy blow from behind, and fell senseless upon the ground, When he recovered consciousness he found that he had been disarmed and his hands bound. Near him stood Old Nat, his hands bound be- hindhim, _
Page 4
a “What do you mean by this outrage?” de- | tain, and began scanning the faces of the crowd manded Frank, as soon as he was able to speak. ** Mean a rope, I reckon,” chuckled Mockton, **Tt’s about time we’d put a stop to this killing and robbing business, and a rope is about the best thing to do it with.” » **T shall make you repent this,” replied Frank. **- You pretend to think that we have committed robbery, when you know better. You are a set of rascals and I shall see that your are punished for this outrage.” , Mockton answered by giving vent to a coarse augh, “* Tt’s well enough for you to play innocent, but that don’t prove anything,” observed the marshal, Then turning to Mockton, he added: “* Bind the prisoners on two of the horses and some of us can ride double. Let’s be off.” ** Yes, the boys are kinder anxious for a hang- ing exercise,” replied Mockton, with a chuckle, ““and I reckon we ain’t the men to keep ’om waiting.” Frack and Nat were speedily compelled to mount the animals which were selected for their use, after which they were securely bound to the saddles, Then the little cavalcade rode ng the slope toward Desert City, at a brisk rot, The two crepe were thoughtful and silent. Well they knew the character of the men into whose hands they had fallen. With only a Vague understanding of the true situation, it was difficult to determine what the outcome would be. That they were suspected of having been implicated in the robbing of the stage was evident; but both Frank and Nat felt sure that Mockton was the prime mover in attempt- ing to fasten the guilt upon them, Although it would be easy to establish their innocence of the crime with which they were charged if they were given a fair chance, yet with an enemy to advise like Mockton, it was doubtful that shey would be given even a chance to do so, It had been customary, in that region, to string up parties suspected, without going to the trouble of atrial. Both being strangers, the prisoners realized that their situation was a grave one, An excited crowd of citizans were gathered in the street awaiting\the arrival of the marshal and the prisoner. ’ They were conducted into a large adobe build- ing, and ushered into the presence of a sbaggy- headed justice, who was waiting to give the prisoners a hearing. “Gentlemen,” said the marshal, glancing at the crow4, ‘‘ we have captured two men who are undoubtedly guilty of this outrage that has been committed. It is our dooty to see that they are punished, but we mu+t first give them a trial, though I bave no dcubt of their guilt.” ** Not in the least,” broke 1n Mockton, “We orter string ’em up right now,” cried one of the crowd, ** You bet!” sanctioned another, “String ’em apt string ’em up!” came froma dozen excited voices, and a great crowd began ' to surge in at the open door, It was not surprising that the citizens became excited, and impatient, for there had been three robberies within as many weeks, and in the last, two men had been murdered by the robbers, Indeed, so great was the indignation of the populace, it was evident the prisoners would be summarily dealt with unless immediate steps were taken to prevent it, The justice, although an illiterate and un- couth-looking character, was a firm believer in giving everybody fair play, and after calling or silence, he said: : ** Pellers, hit ain’t no use ter git excited over this thing. The ta haath, may be guilty an’ they may not. That’s jist the way it stan’s, If they air guilty then they orter be punished, —_ T ain’t got a word ter say, but if they ain’t guilty, then I say they orter be released, I on’t think thar’s a man in Desert City mean enough ter punish an innocent purson,.” **No, boys; the judge is right,” agreed one of the men, ‘I’m in fer givin’ ’em a fair show.” “* Me too,” added another, — “ An’ as I was jist goin’ ter remark, ” continu- ed the justice, ‘thar ain’s goin’ ter be any ee hyer tell these fellers are iin a chanca, an’ I’ve decided to hold the pris’ners tell ter- morrow before givin’ ’em a hearin’.” This had the effect of apieting the angry citizens, somewhat, and turning to the marshal the justice ordered that the prisoners be taken to the and locked up and a guard placed in front of the dail door, That evening a litt’e before sunset, a horseman e into rt City. He had come by the ‘Tombstone road, and hitching his panting horse to the nearest rack, he entered the Desert Foun- ee —— SE present. A sudden light of recognition shone in his eyes as they encountered Mockton, It was evident that Mockton recognized the new-comer, but neither spoke. walked to the bar, ordered a drink, drank it, and then strolled leisurely toward the rear end of the hall, where a few men were gathered about He stood for some time watching a faro table. the game, and Mockton, approached and stood by his side, For some time the twostood therein silence, then, unobserved by any of the bystanders, the into Mockton’s hand, A few moments later the stranger left the saloon, and mounting his horse, galloped out new-comer slipped something of town upon the Tombstone road. ; Mockton thrust the bit of folded paper which had been placed in bis hand into his pocket, and He was in the act of leaving the room when the bartender turned from the gambling table. called to him. ‘* Well, what are they going to do with the meh that was captured?” queried the dispenser, leaning on the bar. ‘String ’em up, I reckon?” ‘“That’s just what we ought to do,” declared Mockton, ‘* but some of the boys are in favor of giving them a trial.” “*Tain’t no way to do business,” asserted the bartender; ‘* I’m in for stringin’ ’em up without any foolishness,” ‘* That was my idea.” **Do you think one of them is Red Rufus?” **T am sure of it.” ** And the other?” ‘*T don’t know; one of the gang, I suppose,” ‘‘They must have their rendezvous near here, and if they have, I believe we can capture the whole gang, if the matter is managed properly.” ‘“* But what is the use uf catching the robbers if we are going to play the fool and give them a chance to es:ape? Who knows but what a dozen of their pals may be in the town now, waiting for a chance to rescue them from our hands, “You are right, Mockton. We can’t be too careful, and a sbarp watch should be kept over the prisoners to prevent any chance of escape or rescue. But we will never break up’the gang till we lay hands on Merto, the Robber Queen. She is a devil, if there ever was one, and has managed to escape every time she has been lo- cated, in spite of every officer and detective in Arizona.” ‘*That’s a fact. Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective, thotght he had her once, up at Tomb- stone, but she gave him the slip.” x a | pa something of that; but, how did it appen ‘This Maverick Mose captured one of her ng, so I beard, and promised not to prosecute im if he'd give information that would lead to the capture of the Robber Queen and Red Rufus, ‘“Well, did he do it?” , ‘* Yes—that is, he pretended to, Told them of a place in the mountains where the robbers had their rendezvous,” «But the robbere wasn’t there?” Ni ‘*No; a posse of armed men visited the place, and found nothing, save the place where some one bad been camped.” ‘And the robber they had captured—what became of bim?” ; v ““T was just going to say, that when the man returned to Tombstone the outlaw had broken jail and escaped.” ‘* How did he manage it?” “Well, he was aided by some of bis pals, who had doubtless been in the town all the time, waiting for a favorable opportunity to help him escape,” ‘““We must see to it that the same thing don’t ay >? here,” “That's right,and if Red Rufus is ever at large again te will be because we and a‘set of f oois, “Who is this Maverick Mose? I’ve heard of him, and it was reported that he had visited this place, but if he did, noone here recognized him.” ‘“*T can’t tell you who he is, though I did hear he was a cowboy from across the country some- where east of here.” ‘*He had better back to ‘cow-punching,” laughed the bartender, ‘if be can’t do better than he has done.” At this juncture several customers approached the bar, and Mockton turned and walked hastily from the room, [ Sp " CHAPTER IV. A DIABOLICAL SCHEME, NIGHT was coming down on Desert City. - The figure of a man entered a small adobe The stranger Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. ) shanty in the outskirts of the town, closing and bolting the door after him. A moment later a kerosene lamp was lit, revealing the scowling visage of Bill Mockton, He seated himself by a rickety pine table, and drawing a piece of paper from his pocket, he unfolded it and read as follows: “Be on your guard. Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective, is in Desert Ccty.” The paper contained no date or signature, and was written in a hurried, scrawling hand. Mockton uttered a snarl as he read these few words, and rising, he erushed the paper in his band, and began pacing restlessly up and down the narrow room, ‘Curse bim,” he hissed, savagely, ‘‘ let me but once get my eyes upon him, and I'll bore his car- | cass so full of holes that it won’t hold baled hay. For months he has dogged my footsteps, and three times I have been forced to fly to escape him, And so be has tracked me here! A thou- sand curses! Will he never cease following me? I must be on the lookout. If he is here, 1 may expect trouble at any moment. I must see the marshal and put bim on the alert. I wonder if that detective is really in Desert City at this moment, If he is I must have seen him, and et—” ‘ Mockton stopped suddenly, and stood as if turned to stone, a fierce light burning in bis eyes, Suddenly he lifted his clinched hand with a spasmodic jerk, and bringing it down with a vigorous thump upon the table in front of him, he hissed: ; ‘Fools! idiots! Nat Barker is the man, and T'll swear to it, yet not one has suspected it. My God!” he continued, with a gasp, ‘can’t we see anything? But, be is in our power now, curse him, and he must not live to see another day— A knock at the door interrupted him, ‘* Who is it?’ demanded Mockton, laying his hand upon his pistol. Five slow, deliberate taps upon the door was the only answer. Without another word Mockton approached, and drawing back the bolt, threw the door open. The city marshal entered. ‘‘ Well, are the prisoners securely caged?’ queried Mockton, carefully rebolting the door. ‘* Yes: and now what’s to be done?” Both men had now seated themselves by the table. Mockton made no answer, but handed the piece of paper which he held in his hand to the marshal. : An exclamation of astonishment broke from the marshal’s lips as Le read it, ; ‘sWhen did you receive this?” he asked, bis voice betraying his emetion. * An hour ago.” ‘Who brought it?” ‘“‘ One of the men.” A , ; ‘‘ Did he say how they discovered this fact?” ‘* No; he tate me the letter and rushed away without saying a word,” ‘¢ This is all the word that was sent?” “« Yes—all.” The marshal gave vent to a low whistle. ‘¢Do you think the detective is really here?’ he asked, a“ I do, ” ‘*T have suspected no one of being Maverick Mose, I know nearly everybody in town, aud. am puzzled to locate him.” ‘* Of course,” scornfully. ‘You seem very positive,” “am.” ‘Perhaps you have seen him, then?” oe Yes ” ** When?” “ This evening.” : The marshal jumped to his feet, an exclama- tion of astonishment eg ey his lips. ‘“ Where is be, now?” the officer asked ly: “‘we must find him—we must not } esca ” Mockton threw out his band with a gesture of impatience, Sit down!” he cried, authoritatively, ‘I It he escapes us now it eager- et bim want to talk business, will be your fault.” " ‘““ What do you mean?’ A sarcastic laugh escaped Mockton. “The deuce! are you blind?” be hissed, in a tone of disgust. ‘‘Can’t you see a rope till it is around neck? You jest locked up a man who gives his name as Nat Barker—” VW ** Yes—but you don’t mean to say?—” # “ He is the man !” “The devil and Tom Walker!” gasped the marshal, ‘* how did you find this out?” _
Page 5
pausing, glanced cautiously about him, Maverick Mose; the Arizona Detective. ‘“‘T have suspected him for several days, but this note confirms my suspicions, There is no doubt but that he is the man.” _ “Then who is this Ilammond?”’ “That I can’t tell, but be is in bad company. I owe him a grudge, and mean to pay it,” fierce- ly, ‘‘and whatever we do must be done immedi- ately.” “You are right, We must act at once, for there is no telling what to-morrow may bring forth. But, how are we to,accomplish our pur- se? ‘*T will see to that.” ** Good! I have charge of the prisoners, and it will be easy to carry out any plan for putting them out of the way, but it must be done so as to not attach any suspicion to eitker of us, What is your scheme?” “ Look,” and Mockton drew a small box from beneath the table, and raising the cover, dis- played several sticks of giant powder, “The work must be done with this,” The marshal started, “Do you mean to—” “To plow up the jail—yes,” ‘** But, it willalarm the whole town—we would be found out—” Mockton smiled. **T see you don’t understand my plan.” “No, Pll be hanged if Ido. “How is it to be managed?” ‘* That is easily explained,” asserted Mockton, ** Pll just place a piece of fuse inthe box. One end will be connected with the powder, and the other with a candle—about an inch from the top.” ** (to on,” ‘“‘ Then you are to place the box in the jail.” oe Yes ” “In the empty room against the wooden par- tition.” ‘* T see,” “* Then you will simply light the candle, Then ses the door and come to the Desert Fountain saioon, ‘Well, our presence at the Desert Fountain will keep off any chance of our pee suspected of having anything to do with it. ®@ can give out the theory that an attenipt must have been made by the pals of the prisoners to blow up the jail and rescue the two men, but they used too much powder—didn’t know the strengthiof giant powder, see?” “1 do see, and your plan is simply immense, Tt can’t help but work!” cried the marshal], in evident admiration of his companion. “That's what I think, Now, have youa guard placed over the prisoners?” ** Yes; Simpkins 1s there now.” “Then you must release him at twelve o'clock,” “ I have already promised to do that.” ‘So much the better. That will leave the coast clear for action,” For nearly an hour the two conspirators re- mained iu close consultation. Then the mar- shal took his leave, and hurried into the town. It was twelve o’clock when Mockton emer; from the cabin, carrying a small box under his arm, He advanced a few from the house, and = Then, as if satisfied that noone was lurking in the vicin- ity, he walked hastily toward the jail, a half mile away. He found the marshal standing a few yards from the lock-up, awaiting his arrival, ** You have brought the box, eh?” saluted the marshal, ina guarded whisper, ‘*You bet!’ cautious tone, Ts it all ready to light?” _ “Correct; all wound up and ready to strike,” with a chuckle, The two men withdrew to a clump of mes- -quites a short distance away, where they would not be observed by any one who might chance to pass that way, ‘Have you been down to town since I left you?” asked the marshal, _ * No; why do you ask?” “Then you have not heard the news?” **No; what is it?” , “Curse the luck!” hissed the marshal, “ the keeper of the Montezuma Hotel says he thinks |» this Hammond is no robber, Says the young ™Mman’s father owns a big ranch across the range, and that he stopped at his hotel not a month Ago,’ “The deuce you say!” replied Mockton, in the same “Yes, and he’s going to inquire into the case to-morrow.” ‘*That’s a bad go.” ‘* And the chances are that the prisoner will be released to-morrow, if—” ‘Tf nothing happens,” ** Exactly!” ‘Then we must make doubly sure that it does happen.” ‘** That’s the idea.” **But what does the hotel-keeper say about this man Barker?” ‘* He don’t know anything about him; but you see how it will all end if we let wwatters go on as they are?” ** Yes, I see, Well, the cards are in our hands, and all we have to do is to play them and rake in the pot. Has Simpkins been relieved?” ‘Yes; he left as soon as I came,” ‘* Then let us get to business, All you have to do is to place the box in the empty room close to the partition, then light the candle—there can’t be no barm in lighting a candle,”—and Mockton laughed a coarse, evil laugh—*‘ then just leave things to work out their own course.” The marshal now took the box, and placing it under his arm, remarked: ‘* Wait for me at the Desert Fountain, and Pll be there in a few minutes,” Mockton then turned and walked toward the saloon, a feeling of certain triumph in his evil breast. Although it was nearly one o’clock when he reached the Desert Fountain, be found it still open, and the gambling tables full. Twenty minutes later the marsbal entered the saloon, . ‘* All fixed?” queried Mockton, in a low tone, ‘© Yes; and it will work like a charm,” CHAPTER V. A WAY TO LIBERTY. ’ To return to Nat Barker and Frank Ham- mond whom we left in the little adobe jail. The jail was a low, two-room structure, and evidently had been an old Spanish mission house, which “civilization” had put to other uses, Onthe north side of the building lay a mass of ruins, over which stood the crumbling walls of what had once been the main building, The north wall of what now served as a jail had been constructed by the citizens of Desert City, and was composed of sun-dried bricks or adobe, Through the center of the building had also been placed a heavy oaken partition through which a door opened into the south room, the outside door opening into the north apartment. The floor consisted of flat rocks, similar to ordi- nary rough flag-stones, The south room, the one in, which the two prisoners were confined, was about twelve by fourteen feet in area and was lit by a single small window high up in the western wall, and looking toward the town, In one end of the room lay several sbeep- skins and a small sack of wool which were to serve as bed and pillow for the prisoners, On a pine box lay a tallow candle and some matches; but, as the darkness deepened neither of the prisoners attempted to strike a light, At about seven o’clock they bad been pro- vided with a lunch of cold mutton and a few slices of hard bread, but it was left untouched. ‘* Nat,” said Frank, breaking the silence, ‘this is the work of Mockton, that we are here, I feel sure of it; but, how do you account for his wishing to fasten the crime upon us?” ‘“‘ That’s jist what puzzles me,” returned Nat, “but I’m goin’ to git at the bottom of his scheme —jist see if I don’t.” ‘ This don’t look much like it,” laughed Frank, “being shut up ina Mexican bake-oven. But, what do they aimtodo with us? They willsurely be compelled to release us, though I don’t be- lieve Mockton would hesitate to bave us hung if he could do so on his own false testimony.” | “‘That’s jist where®the trouble lies, and it’s liable to go hard with us unless we can con- vince the citizens that we not are the men they want.” .“ But, how are we to do that?” asked Frank. ** There is only one way to circumvent them for the present. ’ ‘* What is that?” “We must not be here when to-morrow comes,” “That would be an excellent plan; but, un- fortunately, we are not at liberty to leave just yet; and as these walls are three feet thick it would take us a week to dig through them with nothing to work with but a pocket-knife.” “Then we must not attempt it.” P» Have you any other plan?” We might examine the floor.” / “* Which is of hard stone,” “Yes; but itis in slabs which might be re- moved. If we could manage to remove some of these, who knows but what we might be able to dig our way out? The jail is on the edge ofa deep ravine, and the sandy soil is not bard to dig through.” “We can soon examine the floor and find out what can be done,” responded Frank, ‘‘ but there is a guard stationed in front of the jail,” ‘*T know it, but one of us can watch while the other works, We needn’t make any noise ta disturb the guard.” **'You are right; but there is only one candle in the place, It won’t last Jong, and it may be necessary to work in the dark, part of the time. ** Let’s take a look at the situation and we can tell more about it,” responded Nat, striking @ match and lighting the candle. Frank Hammond took his station by the win- dow for tbe purpose of keeping a watch on the guard, while Nat began examining the floor, screening the light by his hat, from the window, that it might not be seen from the outside, Five minutes passed in silence. ‘How do you find it?” asked Frank. ** Big slabs of rock.” **Can you move them?” ‘*T can’t tell yit. Give me your knife, and I'll see if I can’t dig down between ’am sol can git a finger-hold.” Frank threw his knife to Nat, who took it ue began probing between the rocks in si- ence, A half hour passed, and then Nat turned to companion. **Can you see the guard?” he queried, iti Yes,” ’ ‘*Is he very close?” ‘* No; be is several yards away, sitting on a rock,” ‘* Well, jist come here a moment and see if we can’t lift this slab.” Frank knelt on the floor beside Nat, and thrusting fingers in the crevice scoo out by Nat, the two men sought to lift the buge stone from its place, but their efforts were futile, ‘* You'll have to make the crevice deeper, so that we can get a better hold,” advised Frank, and he rose and took his position at the window again, while Nat resumed work, n fifteen minutes Nat again called to Frank, and this time, to their delight, the rock yielded be their united strength and was lifted from its ace, 4 Eagerly the two men peered into the open space left by the rock, exclamations of disap- pointment escaping them as they beheld another rock still below, **The house is built upon a rock,” declared Frank, in a disappointed tone. ‘* Hold on,” responded Nat, ‘‘ there’s another slab like the first down there, and I think it can be moved, bv doin’ a little work. Don’t git dis- couraged. It’sa long time till daylight, and I expect to work all night if necessary. Jist you keep an eye oa the guard, and I'll goon with the work,” ie Frank approached the window and looked out, The guard had risen and was walking up and down the path about twenty yards away. . Nat resumed work, and in a short time an- nounced that he bad loosened the other stone, With Frank’s help, he soon raised it from its , lace, Then taking the candle he examined the_ ttom of the hole, : The bottom was of solid rock, without seam or crevice! “It’s no use,” he declared, in a low tone, “Ts solid rock in the bottom, and can’t be moved without takin’ up the whole floor, and maybe not then.” ‘What shall we do?” asked Frank, in a per- plexed voice. ** The first ei I suppose, is to put back the rocks, If we fail to git out and they should discover that we had been tryin’ to break out, I reckon they’d think we were robbers, sure enough.” “You are right, Nat but I hope we may not have to remain here to find out what they think. Nat now slipped one of the rocks back into the hole, and as he did so a cry from his lips brought Frank quickly to bis side. ** What is it?” asked Frank. “Tbere’s an openin’ below or I’m a liar,” averred Nat, : “ What makes you think so?” asked Frank, ‘* Listen,” exclaimed Nat, in a low tone, as he lifted the rock and let it drop back = to | its place. ‘Do you hear how holler that eS » a ‘ “
Page 6
faverick Mose, the Arizona Detective, sounds? There’s a cellar below or I’m greatly mistaken!” “Tl be hanged if there isn’t an opening of some kind down there,” agreed Frank, “but how can we reach it, since we cannot displace the rocks that separate us from it?” ** The rocks ain’t very thick, and I believe we could break through if we had—” “ There! that is the very thing to do it with,” exclaimed Frank, pointing to the rock which Nat still held in his hands. “The idea, exactly!” affirmed Nat, ‘‘ Now for business! But, we must be careful, or the noise may be heard by the guard,” * Yes, but I think we can manage that part. We can deaden the sound of the rock by placing one of the sheepskins in the hole, and work only when the guard is not near, Just wait till Itake a peep at him, and then we'll begin work.” Ashe spoke he approached the window and red out, ** Nat,” he called in a low whisper, ‘‘ we can’t doitnow. He’s right here by the house,” Quickly the light was extinguished and the two men stood if gee window, waiting for the guard to move, e was leaning against a little tree not five paces away. Slowly the hours went by, and still the guard without kept within close range of the jail, It bad assy midnight when Frank turned from the window and spoke to Nat. ‘* There’s some one talking to the guard,” he whispered, ‘‘ Perhaps they may take it into their heads to come in and see if everything is all right, so be ready to throw the sbeepskins over the hole in the floor if I give you the signal,” or some time the two men on the outside continued in close conversation, Then, suddenly, they withdrew to a little grove fifty or sixty yards away. ‘* Now is our time, Nat!” cried Frank; ‘‘ they have gone to the little grove up yonder, and can’t hear the noise we’ll make.” The two prisoners now hurriedly bent over the hole into which Nat had thrown a piece of sheepskin to deaden the sound of the battering- ram, and then lifting the huge stone, they dash- ed it down, end foremost into the cavity. A dull, hollow sound came from the floor, but the rock did not yield. Again and again they re- ated the blow, and then—the rock broke hrough, the splintered fragments falling with a dull echo into an opening beneath, “ There! (ll be hanged if we hain’t done it!” cried Nat, in a joyful whisper. ‘Now jist keep an eye on the men while I go below and reconnoiter,” Quickly Nat relit the candle and placed it by the opening, A musty odor came from below as he commenced to descend through the ragged hole, which was barely large enough to admit his body. The next moment he dropped about six feet onto a rocky floor, and found himself in blackest darkness, ‘*Give me the candle,” he called back to Fey, ‘it’s blacker ’an a stack of niggersdown ere, Frank hurriedly passed him down the light, and then resumed his watch at the window. By the aid of the candle Nat began to examine bis surroundings. Hé wasina n w. cellar about eight feet long by four in width, inclosed by walls of rock built without mortar. These he found could be easily removed, and turning * to the side pext to the ravine, he commenced to remove the stones and place them in the apening behind him, Presently he caught the gieam of a star between the rocks, He could hardly suppress the cry of joy that rose to bis lips. Only a few moments’ work now and the passage tuo the outside would be opened. He was just in the act of communicating this welcome intelligence to his companion, when the candle, which had burned to the end sput- tered and went out, leaving him in total dark- ness, At that same instant he heard the voice of Frank, at the hole above calling to him in an excited whisper. “ Whut is it?” asked Nat, groping his way over the loose rocks, “The guard is coming thisway,” replied Frank, in a cautious whisper, The sound of footsteps could be plainly heard, approaching the jail. Suddenly they ceased. en came the sound of a key turning in the musty lock, _ CHAPTER VI. A NEW SENSATION. isoners stood scarcely breathing the outer door swing open, _ THE two ms they h Then, with a noiseless step, Frank approached the partition door, and crouching there in the darkness, made ready to spring upon the guard should he enter the room. Nat Barker had anticipated his friend’s action, and was drawing himself up through the hole in the floor as noiselessly as possible. But, at this juncture, they heard steps in the room beyond, Then all was silent. For a half minute the two men held their breath and listened. Presently the steps withdrew from the room; the door closed; the key turned in the lock, and they heard retreating footsteps. Frank stole to the window and looked out, He saw the dark figure of a man moving swiftly in the direction of the town. Frank watcbed the figure until it had disappeared, then turned from the window, ‘ He is gone,” he cried, drawing a breath of relief, **Good!” ejaculated Nat, in an excited whis- r ‘tand so shall we be, in a few moments. ‘ve got an openin’ almost completed, but the light is out, and we'll have to work in the dark,” ** What?” exclaimed Frank, in astonishment; ‘do you mean to say you have found a way out?” ‘*'You’ve said it, pardner! Jist foller me, and I'll soon show you.” In a few moments both men had dropped into the cellar below, and groping their way over tho loose rocks, they reached the wall and com- menced removing the loose stoves witha will, The moon was just rising, and its faint beams stealing through tbe crevices in the wall, en- abled them to progress rapidly with their work. In a very few momeuts a hole of sufficient size to admit their bodies bad been made. Then Nat crawled to the outside, and found himself in the small ravine under the eastern wall of the jai}. Frank quickly joined bim, and the two prisoners were free} ‘*What next?” questioned Frank, ‘¢ Poller me,” answered Nat, and he led the way toward the low hills that lay east of the town. They were ascending a little hill not three hundred yards from the jail, when they paused and glanced backward. A solemn stillness lay over the town, Their flight bad not been dis- covered, Suddenly the two men started back, a cry of horror upon their lips! A great tongue of livid flame had shot fully fifty feet above the jail, instantly followed by an appalling crash that shook the earth as if a hundred guns bad been discharged at their very side, Then came dark- ness and the sound of falling rocks, ‘““My God!” gasped Frank, “ the jail has been blown up!” * (treat Ceasar)” ejaculated Nat, ‘‘ what does that mean?” For several moments the two men stood as if stupefied with horror and amazement, ‘* Nat,” Frank, in a hosrse voice ‘that is the work of tbat devil, Mockton!” “I believe you, my boy, and we ougbt to thank Heaven that we were not in the jai] when that explosion took place,” ** Amen!” responded Frank, in an awed voice, ‘* But listen! The whole town is alarmed!” Plainly now could be heard the sound of excited voices and hurrying feet. ‘Come! we must get out of this,” urged Nat, ** those devils will be after us as soon as our ab- sence is discovered !” ‘* But, where can we go? It will soon be day- light, and we shall be captured again!” be Come, we haven’t a moment to lose!” and the two men ran with all speed in the direction of Nat’s cabin, ‘It is no use; we shall never be able to make our escape,” declared Frank, as they reached the cabin and eptered, almost out of breath. ““It looks perty bilious,” admitted Nat, ‘‘ but, I’ve got a plan—” “Then let us act upon it at once,” exclaimed Frank. ‘ We have no time to lose.” “Correct, my boy. Now listen! And in a few words Nat unfolded his plan of action, a uttered an exclamation of astonish- ment. ‘* Do you agree to it?” asked Nat. “T do,” responded Frank, “It is our only chance,” The greatest excitement prevailed in Desert City the next morning. A crowd of angry and excited citizens bad gathered about the ruined jail, discussing the startling events, That the suspected parties had escaped and then blown up the jail, was the verdict, and if there had been a doubt as to the guilt of the prisoners, it was now utterly dissipated. There were two men in Desert City, however, who fully believed that when the debris of the ruin- ed jail should be removed, the dead bodies of the two | hardly necessary to state that Mockton and the city marshal kept this opinion to themselves. * It’s a plain case,” obseryed Mockton, “ that: the prisoners were guilty. them up as soon as they were caught,” “That is just what should bave been done,” assented the city marshal, who bad just returned from the bills on a pretended se rch for the fugitives. ‘But, where could they have gone to?” ques- tioned Mockton, ‘‘ Every part of the surround- ing country has been searched, but not a trace of them has been found,” “And that isn’t the worst of it,” added Jack Neal, the proprietor of the. Montezuma Hotel; ‘“‘ they have already committed another robbery while we have been searching for them,” ‘The deuce you say!” ejaculated the marshal in astonishment. “T's a fact,” averred the landlord. “A couple of prospectors reached bere about day- ligbt, and it seems that they were met and robbed on the Tombstone road, not three miles from the town, There was two of the robbers, and it must have been the two escaped pris- oners,” ‘* That’s a, different tone to what you used last bight!” blurted Mockton. ‘You were one of the idiots that believed the prisuvers were Sun- day-school superintendents!” “*T only told what I knew about one of the prisoners,” faltered the landlord, ‘‘ He claimed to bea son to the Hammond that owns the big ranch across the mountains, and it did seem as if he was what he pretended.” ‘* Seem, the devil! You didn’t know anything about either of these Hammonds, You'd better keep your mouth shut after this!” replied Mock- ton, savagely. ‘* Where are these two strangers who were robbed?” asked the marshal, ; ‘*Down at the hotel,” responded the landlord. ‘* Well, I will godown and see them, They may furnish some clew as to. the whereabouts of the fugitives.” With this the marshal led the way to the hotel, followed by an eager mob, They found the two strangers at the hctel, surrounded by a little knot of citizeus, who were busy discussing the robbery. The strangers were dressed in the garb usually worn by prospectors, and appeared greatly ex- cited over their recent loss, The older of the two could not have been less than sixty years of age, judging by his white bair and yellow face, | while his companion might have been a score of years younger, and possessed a busby red beard that almost covered his face, “Gentlemen,” said the marshal, approaching, and addressing the strangers, ‘“‘I have just been told that you were robbed on the Tombstone road this morning. Iam the city marshal, and am anxious to bring the villains to justice. Per-. baps you can give me some clew thet will lead to their capture.” The older of the two prospectors shook his head. “I wish I could tell ye whar ye could put yer han’s on ’em, but I reckon they aire meckin’ tracks many miles from hyar ’fore this,” ‘““How many were they?” ~< “We only see’d two, though thar might ‘a’ b’en a dozen hidin’ in the bushes an’ rocks,” **Can you describe them?” “Wal, they wore masks, and I didn’t git much uv a peep at’em, It was dark, an’ it alk happened so sudden like.” “Where were you at the time?” - ‘* We war camped 'bout three miles from hyar on the Tombstone road.” ‘“* Do you live at Tombstone?” “‘Ken’t say that I do, though I’ve b’en knock- in’ ’round thar consider’bly. We'd b’en out rospectin’—me an’ Jim Fits that, an’ had got a. fittle dust, an’ war comin’ in ter Desert City ter injoy ourselves when them on’ry cusses held us. up fer our pile—tbat 1s most uv it, but thar’s a little left that they didn’t fiud, enough ter bu some guns to gd in s’arch uv the blasted rascals with. If we run across ’em thar won’t be no trial—we'll jist bore ’em through an’ let the kiotes hold the inquest.” 4 good plan,” decided the marshal. ‘“ Now what’s your names?” “Fits an’ Hunter,” replied the old man, “Jim Fits an’ Zeke Hunter, prospectors; per- m’nent address, Tombstone,” and the old mam uttered a low, chuckling laugh, risoners would be found beneath; but it is | My idea was tostring | rice a a ee we OD et ct ct ©
Page 7
ss Tw Bowery — | =) Se | can ponies, Maver ick Mose, the Arizona Detectiv ‘ “All right,” returned the marshal; ‘if we | the barren summits of the Sierra Madre Moun- | twenty rods wide, and it was only during a capture the rascals we'll see that you get your dust back, if we find it in their possession.” “Thank ye—thank ye,” nded the old ye do. The marshal then withdrew. At the Desert Fountain he met Mockton, and drawing him aside, said: ‘Some boy has robbed the two men at the hotel, and the question is who did it?” ‘““That’s just what’s been puzzling me,” ad- mitted Mockton, Boe XS, ‘“‘Of course, the people think it was the two prisoners, but, we know better. I reckon ghosts don’t do any robbing,” and the marshal give vent to a low laugh. “. “Tt must have been some of the men,” ven- | tured Mockton. ** But, they had no orders?” ‘“No; that is what puzzles me, I must in- quire into the matter as soon as possible,” The following day men were set to work re- moving the rubbish, preparatory to oe the shattered jail. Mockton and the marsha were on the ground, and when the debris had all been removed, and no trace of the supposed mangled prisoners had been found, the two men looked at each other, ess with astonish- ment, A moment later they discuvered the hole in the floor of the jail through which the prisoners had escaped, ith looks of baffled rage upon their faces, Mockton and the marshal turned and walked in the direction of the town. “‘Curse us for idiots!” hissed Mockton, “‘ we have failed, and that devil is free again!” _ “Yes, and we have lost all chance of overtak- ing them,” answered the marshal. ‘If we had only known this at first—” ‘** But, wo didn’t,” broke in Mockton. ‘‘ We must warn Merto and the men at once, We have made a fools’ job of the whole thing.” “Mockton,” said the marshal, suddenly, “I have just been thinking about the two men at the hotel who were robbed.” ** Well?” ‘*T believe their whole story was made up.” ‘* For what purpose?” : “To keep us from suspecting who they were.” «What! you don’t think?— ** Yes—it was the two prisoners in disguise as Bure as you are living!” “You are right!” he cried, his voice hoarse with baffled rage. ‘ They have duped us; but, come! they may be in town yet—they think we will peepee nothing.” Swiftly the two hurried to the hotel. But they discovered that the two strangers had left pte Song landlord informed them, They had purch some arms, a couple of horses late the evening before, and had left with the ex- pr determination to hunt the robbers own; but, whether they had gone to put this determination into effect or bad simply returned to Tombstone, none could say. CHAPTER VIL. A MARVEL! As the reader has already surmised, the two strangers who arrived in Desert City, claiming to have been robbed were none other than Nat Barker and Frank Hammond. Finding it would be impossible for them to escape, Nat had bit upon the plan of returning to rt City under disguise, thus throwing their enemies off their guard. Thesuits worn by the two men were the discarded garments of some prospector who had inhabited the little cabin before Nat’s arrival. These they had hastily slipped on over their own clothes, Then from an inside pocket of his coat, Nat produce’ the false beard and wigs worn by them on their _Teturn to Desert City. ow well their ruse worked, the reader has ‘de r seen. - Having procured arms and a couple of Mexi- Tanch, light the following morning, they lea Glceel & spur of the Sierra Madre Mountains, where they halted for the day, now fesling cure from pursuit. . E and young Hammond lay under the ‘Shadow of a small tree, while a short distance Way their two ponies were industriously crop-_ K "Ping the short grass at the end of the riatas, _ Near at hand a small spring bubbled up from | 8mong the loose rocks, and stealing down its ) narrow, wd row, rocky channel, sent up a murmur on the su ain a4 el, P a To the north towered a long chain of cliffs, iF ey pi dye ty pe © ne set out once more for Hammond’s. da with stunted cedars, while beyond rose tains, Southward stretched/a succession of jag- ged peaks, whose sun-scorched and blackened rocks seemed fresh from some volcanic fire. ! yon, dark and deep, where scarcely a ray of | sunlight ever fell. This is known as Urkos | Pass, | Frank Hammond had removed the false beard worn at Desert City, but Barker still wore the disguise he had employed in the cbaracter of Zeke Hunter at the hotoi the day before. ‘*Nat,” said Frank, breaking the silence, “ there is one thing that’s been puzzling me.” ** What is that?” asked Nat. * Regarding the blowing up of the jail.” ‘* Maybe Mockton bad a hand in it.” “ That is likely, He could easily have mur- dered us, I am quite sure; but, it was not he who did it.” ‘*T know it wasn’t,” was the calm reply. “That is the most puzzling part of the whole ee. “Then you su t some one else of having done the deed?” nr E Nat nodded. ** You believe it was the guard, then?” queried Frank. “ Yes,” “That is my opinion; but Mockton must have planned it.” ** He’s the onery cuss that set the trap; there ain’t no doubt about that; but, here is the point; the guard done the work when he came in the jail jist before we escaped,” “Exactly; that is the conclusion I have ar- rived at.” — ‘* Now, the question is, how did he get the officers to go into the plot? They ain’t got no reason to want us out of the way, while there are reasons to believe that Mockton bas,” “There is a mystery behind it all.” averred Frank, ‘‘ and there is a greater set of villains in Desert City than has been dreamed of by most of its inhabitants,” ‘*-You’re right, my boy, and some day there’s goin’ to be a big roundin’-up there—jist see if there ain’t!” i Suddenly a look of alarm swept over Nat’s face as he sat gazing idly across the narrow canyon, though not a sound came from bis lips. Only for an instant did his countenance betray the slightest emotion, then it was calm again. Presently be spoke in a low tone, without look- ing at his companion: “Don’t you move till I give the word. We are in deadly peril. We are surrounded b Apaches ; if you make a false move we are lost. Now, when I give the word, grab your gun and run to the north side of the canyon, and drop behind the big bowlders, Then don’t waste a shot!” Frank Hammond was thunderstruck with sur- prise, though well he knew the danger of betray- ing himself by any suspicious movement, and - eee even glancing at his companion, he re- **T am ready.” ** Now!” The word had scarcely left Nat’s lips when both men, grasping their rifles that lay in easy reach, sprang to their feet like a flash and darted across the canyon, But, scarcely had they taken a dozen ste | when a chorus of savage yells broke the still- ness, and from rock and bush, a score of Apaches rose as if by magic, and darted in pursuit. The fugitives heard the report of firearms be- hind, and a dozen bullets whistled about them. But, in a few moments, they had reached the mass of huge bowlders near the north side of the canyon, and leaping across these, they quickly threw themselves behind the sheltering wall. ho next instant the muzzles of their Winches- ters appeared over the rocks, followed by simul- taneous reports, and two of the advancing savages went down with the death cry on their lips. With howls of baffled rage, the whole gang of reds swerved to one side and took refuge bebind the rocks, knowing that it would be death to face the two de te men, intrenched as they | were behind an impenetrable fortification. “There's two of the cusses that won’t bother us again,”observed Nat, grimly; “‘ but, l reckon we're in a mighty tight-box.” Nid we are!” returned Frank. “Let us keep a sharp lookout, and make ever shot °Bilen 1 ' ilence now reigned over the gloomy 4 The sun had gone bebind the towering cliffs that a pervendicularly for over 100 feet above , them, K tA Ns \ fh 4 ihe. : 7 hy ey ae) eit (hy 2 SEE ws ke ers ek: 44579 0a ee es SANT ay a PS) Bee The canyon at this point was not over | ' short portion of the day that the sunlight-pen- | etrated its gloomy depths, Cautiously Nat peered from behind the rocks, gha Sa will be ever so much obleeged ter ye if | From east to west lay a narrow, winding can- | through the foliage of a bunch of mesquite | bushes, that lined the front; but failed to catch ) a glimpse of the foe, though well he knew they were hidden in the rocks not sixty yards away. Slowly the hours passed, but not a sound broke the stillness to indicate the presence of any human being in the canyon, savo the two men who lay there, clutching their weapons, waiting | for the attack, ; | _ Nat,” whispered Frank, “* what does it mean? | There has been no sound for ‘hours to indicate | that the savages are in the canyon. Can it be that they have crept away, and are goue?” ‘** Nary gone!” responded Nat, ‘‘ Them Apache é devils don’t do that kind of business.” ‘‘ Then you think they are still here?” **T know it.” ‘“Do you think they will attempt to starve us out?’ ‘No; that ain’t their game; it’s worse ’an that. They’re waitin’ for dark to come.” / 8 see now, Unless we can manage to escape them before they attack us, we are lost.” “Tt looks perty black for us, boy,” admitted Nat, ‘‘ but, there is jist one chance left,” ‘* What is that?” ‘¢ They are goin’ to wait tell night before they attack us again. It will be nearly two hours ae vex” $ Well, we must try to git out of here before that!” ‘** But they are watching us, and any attempt on our part to leave this place will be sure to bring the » hole pack down upon us.” “Tf they see us—yes; but they may not expect us to attempt an escape before dark, and if we could crawl up the canyon, we might beable to give ’em the slip around a turn in the cliff.” re Bat may they not be one guarding that int? ““That’s what I’m goin’ to find out, Don’t move till I tell you,” and Nat began crawling cautiously up the canyon, keeping close to the base of the cliff, Ten minutes passed, and Frank saw his com- panion returning. “Tain’t no use!” muttered Nat. “The red devils are all around us. We can’t do nothin’ but stan’ our ground and fight it out. When it gits dark we've got to make a dash, and fight our way through their lines,” ‘““Whenever you say the word, I am reaiy,” responded Frank, A silence fell between the two men that was only broken by the low murmur of the wind along the summit of the cliffs, Presently the sun went down, and the dark shadows of night rapidly began gatbering over the canyon. ‘The two men had examined their rifles, and filled the magazines with fresh cartridges. “When I give the word dash up the canyon, and I will be by your side,” whispered Nat. They waited in breathless silence. Deeper and deeper grew the darkness about them; then— ~—| Then came a succession of guttural ejacula- tions from the darkness across the narrow pass, In a morent the two men were on their feet, expecting the red ‘horde to swarm about them; when, suddenly a gleam of red light flashed through the daskiions, followed by strange, startled cries of terror from the savages, and the next moment, as if moved with a common — impulse, the whole Apache band rushed head- — long down the canyon! 5 Nat Barker and Frank Hammond stood as if. ‘thunderstruck with astonishment, ; What had happened to cause the panic among uy) the savages? Neither of the two men could an- a swer the question. : The sound of the terror-stricken Apaches could be hesrd far down the canyon, as they rushed pell-mell through the tush and over the jagged ; rocks, , ‘*Great Christopher Columbo!” ejaculated | Nat, ‘“ what in the name of al] that’s mysterious __ did them devils gi *Pears like they ft scared at? ’Pt o. must ’a’ got a glimpse of the Ole Feller bim- ” ve self, j “Look!” cried Frank, suddenly, ‘“‘ What in the name of Heaven does that mean’? | \ A strange red light had suddenly flamed up : along the summit of the towering cliff, casting -aruddy glow down into the gloomy depths of the pass, Then itdisappeared,andall wasdark- ness, ra With ejaculations of astonishment the two — men stole cautiously across the canyon. el a “Come, Frank,” whispered Nat, “let us git . | 4! rig » eae
Page 8
~ > 8 Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. out of here. place,’ ‘* Which way shall we go?” asked Frank. ‘“‘There’s a place a little ways down the cliff where we can climb out of here,” returned Nat, and the two men stole cautiously forward through the darkness. A few steps brought them to the place where their horses had been picketed. They were one, en The cussed varments have left us afoot,” hissed Nat, ‘but I reckon even that is better an bein’ scalped and burnt at the stake.” Again the red light fell over the pass, and turning about, they beheld a strange spectacle. Upon the summit of the cliff a dull red light was streaming over the jagged rocks, and within the circle of the glow stood the dark figure of a monster in human shape—sometbing resem- bling a man in form, but so completely coy- ered with long, black hair, and of such weird and hideous aspect, as to fill the stoutest heart with fear. Near this strange monster stood a white human skeleton, its long bony hands stretched out toward the valley below as if im- parting a bideous warning to all who might ven- ture within the rocky walls of tbat gloomy ass, 3 The next moment the light vanished, and the blackness of night lay over the great canyon. There’s some deviltry afoot in this CHAPTER VIII. THE ROBBER QUEEN. “ WHat in the name of ole Tom Walker was that?’ gasped Nat, bardly crediting his senses, “Tt looks as if the Ole Boy himself had taken possession of this place!” “That beats anything I ever witnessed,” de- clared Frank, in astonishment. ‘* What can it mean?” queried Nat in an awed voice, ‘“T]l be hanged if you haven’t got me,” de- clared Frank. ‘‘I can’t imagine what it can be, unless it is some one who is seeking to frighten us away.” ‘* But who'd want to be doin’ that?” “T can’t tell. At any rate, whatever it is, it has served us a good turn by frightening the reds out of their senses, and 1’m not going to grumble,” ~ “Correct, And now let’s be gittin’ out of this, We've got a long tramp before us, and the sooner we're on the road the better.” For nearly a quarter of a mile the two men traveled along the base of tbe cliff before they reached a point where they could ascend to the table-land above, Having accomplished this with great difficul- ty, they set out on their journey, taking an eastern course as near as they could guess, The night being intensely dark, it was with the greatest difficulty they made their way over the rough path. Hour after hour they eae wearily on. It must bave been two o’clock when, suddenly, they arrived at the edge of a great precipice, Not an instant too soon did they discover their danger. ‘Another step and they would have been precipitated into the black depths below, The two men recoiled, a cold shiver amgeon | through them as they realized the‘deadly peri they had been ip. ‘Do you know where we ard?” asked Frank, as they drew back from the precipice. ‘‘ We must have lost our way.” “‘That’s about the size of it,” admitted Nat. ‘T’ve been through these hills before, but don’t remember jist where this place is, lf we have traveled straight East, I can’t see why we hain’t got out of the hills long before this. e’ve lost our way, boy, shore as shootin’,” ‘“* What is to be done then? We can’t go on.” ‘*] reckon we'd better not try. It ain’t long till daylight, and we'll jist wait till we can see our way.’ ‘ *“‘T won’t mind taking a little rest, myself,” declared Frank. ‘‘I’m about used up tramp- ing over these rocks,” The two men threw themselves on the short grass and were soon asleep. It was broad daylight when they awoke, and prepared to resume their journey. Nat approached the precipice and looked into the deep canyon below, Then he gazed at the hills about them—the tall summits of the moun- tains lying to the north, a look of astonishment sweeping over his countenance, De “Frank,” he said, suddenly, turning to his companion, night to git away!” » Frank looked surprised. “It’s a fact,” went on Nat. ‘“ We must’a’ got ‘ ‘711 be hanged if we ain’t back at. - Urkos Pass—and after travelin’ most of the turned around somehow in the dark, and travel- ed back to where we started.” “You are right,” admitted Frank; ‘ we’ve had the night’s tramp for nothing, but it can’t be helped now.” Suddenly Nat caught his companion’s arm, and pointing across the bill, exclaimed: “ ook {” Frank glanced in the direction indicated and saw a large, low building with gray walls half covered with clinging vines, only a short dis- tance away, half bidder in a grove of cedars. Quickly the two men approached the build- ing, and as they did so, they discovered that it was an old ruin—of Aztec or Toltic creation, such as are sometimes found in the wild regions of Arizona ane Mexico. It was a long, narrow structure, a row of broken stone columns stand- ing near the wall which had evidently once sup- ported a veranda, The door was open, and as they drew near they saw that the shutter, which was evidently of recent construction, was made of long mesquite poles, standing vertically and held into place by cross-bars of same material. The walls, which were composed of a grayish cement and blocks of stone, were crumbling with age. As the two men entered this building they saw unmistakable evidences of recent occupancy. A few cooking utensils were scattered here and there about the roum, and in one corner a pile of ashes showed where a fire had been. The walls and ceilings were of a hard, smooth ce- ment finish, while the floor’was composed of great square blocks of stone, fitted closely to- gether. The house contained three rooms, but there was only one door leading from the outside, Nat and Frank passed from one room to the other through the open doorways, and altbough they discovered unmistakable evidence of habi- tation, it was clear that the place had been abandoned by its late occupants, Far a half-hour the two men remained in the strange old building. Then, as they emerged from its gloomy walls, they caught the sound of horses’ hoofs coming across the hill, Ina moment Nat and Frank had concealed themselves in a thicket by the wall. Nearer and nearer came the sound of approach- ing hoofs; then two horsemen appeared in sight, They were ey armed and had their faces concealed by black masks, A few moments and. the horsemen had disap- peared across the hill behind a clump of trees. ‘**Outlaws, or I’m a liar!” gasped Nat, in a low tone, ‘‘and I'll be chawed by a grizzly if they hain’t got their rendezvous somewhere in these parts.” “You are right, and that may account for the strange sight we witnessed ed night. They evidently wish to frighten every spy away and have taken that means of doing so.” ‘*Tt may be as you say. Anyway, I’m sure Merto, the Robber Queen, and her band of cut- throats and road-agents afe in these hills!” / ‘“Merto, the Robber Queer? I have heard of her,” responded Frank, ‘‘They say she is a desperate character, and that she and Red Rufus the outlaw are in league.” j Nat nodded his head, ‘*She is a devil in human shape!” he hissed, a ferocious light gleaming in his eyes, ‘ But, some fellers call her perty. Maybe she is, I’ve been wantin’ to see her fer a long time,” and he Jaughed a low, mirthless laugh. - “You have seen her, then?” queried Frank, in surprise, ‘© Yes, I have seen her,” and Nat nodded his head in an empbatic manner. ‘*T have heard that she has baffled the skill of all the detectives and officers, and as she is stil at large, there must be some truth in this re- port.” ” answered Nat, ‘‘ she’s managed things perty slick, She escaped several times when they thought they had her cornered,” . -“T heard in Desert City that Maverick Mose, the great Arizona Detective, was still on her track, though he failed to capture her at Tomb- stone, after having caught a member of her gang.” ‘ “Yes, she left there with Red Rufus, I heard ‘em say.” ** And he is still with her, I suppose?” “Yes, but he’s got a different name, now,” ‘“ What is it?” “ Bill Mockton.” Frank started up, an exclamation of surprise falling from his lips. ; *¢ Are you sure of this?” x “Sure as I’m livin’,” responded Nat, ‘When did you find tiis out?” ‘* When he took us to jail. I saw he had false - whiskers; then I knew he was Red Rufus. I had suspected him before, but 1 am now con- vinced,” “Then let us return to Desert City and de- mand him, and have him locked up before he — escapes!” cried Frank, excitedly. Nat shook his head. ‘*' Young feller,” be responded, ‘‘I see that you Jack judgment. Can’t you see what a mess we'd meck of the hull thing if we’d do as you suggest? Who’s goin’ to testify against him? Would they take our word for it if we told them he was Red Rufus? I reckon not! Hain’t we already looked on as robbers? Didn't we break jail there? No; I ain’t ready to go to Desert City jist yit.” ‘*T see that you are right,” admitted Frank. ‘*T understand the situation; but, what is to be done? Surely you don’t intend to let that vil- lain run at large, knowing what you do?” __“Time enough yit, Then I have got another idea—if we captured Red Rufus, we’d miss get- tin’ bs Robber Queen, and that is just the main p’int. ““T can see now why it was that Mockton was so anxious to have us convicted of the crime of which we were accused, He is indeed a villain of the most desperate and dangerous type.” ‘He is that. His gang of cut-throats have ot a rendezvous somewhere in this region, and mean to find it before I leave this place.” ‘* What! you mean to say that yon are going to undertake this dangerous task without assist- ance?” Nat nodded his bead, ‘* But, let us go to the ranch and get a dozen cowboys and return. What can we two accom- plisb against a dozen ora score of such men as we'll have to deal with?” . ‘J see that you don’t understand my plan. What I’m goin’ to do now is to locate the game, and capture it when the. sign is right. I’m not goin’ to put my head in any hornets’ nest. But with a dozen men with me, what could Fdo! Simply alarm the robbers and put ’em on their guard, and lose the game entirely.” Frank beld out bis band, ‘* Whatever danger there is to encounter in this undertaking,” be said, ‘‘ remember I am with you, And if you are willing, we will un- dertake the task of locating the robbers at once,” The two men shook hands warmly, ‘‘>Nough said!” responded Nat, ‘ There ain’t aman in Arizony I’d rather have for my pard- ner than yourself—” The sound of horses’ feet came from across the bill, : The two men grasped their guns more tightly, and peered eagerly in the direction from whence the noise had proceeded. Suddenly a horse dashed across the hill a bun- dred yards away, bearing on bis back the form of a female, a mass a raven hair falling about her shapely shoulders. A red cap, ornamented with a white plume, surmounted her head, while a broad sash of scarlet silk was tied about her waist. ea For one brief moment the two men _ stood speechless with surprise; then the horse and rider ean Serer across the bill, into the ravine eyond. x By the shader of ole Christopher Columbo!” ga Nat, ‘I’m of liar and can’t see if that — ain’t Merto, the Robber Queen ! “alin. CHAPTER IX, AT THE MUZZLE OF A WINCHESTER. ‘“THE Robber Queen!” ejaculated Frank, ‘‘Then let us follow her at once, and discover the outlaws’ rendezvous!” and Frank made a step as if to start in pursuit of the rider, at laid a detaining band upon him. “Don’t be in too big a hurry!” he advised, “We have a set of cunnin’ rascals to deal with, ee this may be a trap to draw us into an am- ush,” ° ‘s But, do you suppose our presence in the hills has been discovered, by the outlaws?” questioned. Frank, “T am afraid so, That sight we witnessed last night makes me think they knew of our presence; still, it might ’a’ been for the benefit of them savages.” ‘It looks, then, as if the outlaws would at- tack us if they knew we wero here,” responded Frank. “They might and then they mightn’t, They may bave seen us and think we are only pros- tors, and don’t want to tackle us if we don’t ther ‘em.” ee ** We must keep on the lookout, at any rate,” returned Frank, :
Page 9
Ww See 6° Seas 6S “*Pardner,” said Nat, “I’m going on a little reconnoissance, and see what I can discover, Jist keep quiet till I come back, and—” “But I shall go with you, you may get into trouble and need my assistance.” ‘* No; itll only meck matters worse for you to be with me, Dil keep my eyes open and won't let any one git the drop on me, You must stay here till 1 come back.” “Well, just as you think best. How long will you be gone?” “Only a little while—an hour or two,” With this Nat started across the hill, and was soon lost to sight behind the big rocks, Nat followed the trail of the Robber Queen for nearly a mile, then he found that the trail made by the two robbers and the one he was fol- lowing merged into one, A little further .on he discovered that it led into the deep canyon below, through a narrow winding ravive. Having reached the bottom of the pass, he fol- lowed the trail around the base of a towering cliff for a quarter of a mile, keeping the closest watch that be did not betray his presence by the slightest sound or exposure, Threading bis way through a narrow passage, he emerged into a little valley, surrounded by perpendicular cliffs, and covered with a scant growth of brush, with here and there a few scattering trees. At this momeut he caugbt the sound of voices around an angle in the high cliff, and had scarcely time to conceal himself behind a bunch of chaparral bushes, when two men came in sight, walking directly toward the spot where e lay. They were villainous-looking specimens of the roughest element, and were armed with rifles and heavy pistols. Nat lay flat on the ground as they approached, peering at them through an opening in the thicket, That it would be impossible for him to avoid discovery, Nat now felt certain, and nerving himself for action, he was about to rise from his place of concealment, when the two changed their course, going in the direction of the cliff, They passed within a rod of Nat, and paused _ at the base of the cliff, not thirty yards away. ; A few trees, and a dense thicket of chaparral j rew against the rocky wall, almost hiding it rom view. One of the men gave vent toa low whistle, and instantly the foliage in front of them parted, and the form’of a man, armed with a Win- chester, appeared in the opening. That these men were members of the Robber Queen’s gang, Nat was now fully convinced, ‘What news?’ inquired the man at the en- trance, — ‘* We must be ready to make ancther demand on the traveling public a week from to-night,” replied one of the two, with a coarse laugh. What part of the judicial circuit?” ‘On the Tombstone road.” a Where’s the captain?” “Tn town,” with a motion toward Desert ity, Firhen will he visit us?” o To-night, if nothing happens,” How many men has he ordered to make the next haul?’ ‘* Six or seven,” ** Seven will only castle, if two are sent --~at our last meeting.” “You forget Merto,” ‘Well, three—then, That will be a big risk torun. Su a party of officers should dis- cover our den? We'd then run a chance of losing a bck for eringgan yy, ot we ou are right, but tbe captain ha i to keep us Sosted, and he'll oe it.” | haa When did you leave Desert City” “Four days ago—the day we made the last haul. We had to travel a long ways around to cover our trail here. It was the captain’s Pa leave two to guard the to Tucson as was decided orders,” \ ‘“Then you have not heard the news?” * No; what is it?” ‘* We received word yesterday from the cap- tain that Maverick Mose was in Desert City,” “The deuce!” ~ _“ And he was captured by the captain and the marshal and held, accused of robbing the Stag 2,7 . “Good! He will not bother us again!” ‘**But he has escaped!” _ A furious imprecation escaped the outlaw. ** And have they discovered nothing of him?” “* Nothing.” ‘ “That is a fine mess, Did the captain give Guy o cheeee i ‘No; he said the detective had been in his | Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. hands, but bad escaped. There is a young man with him who calls himself Hammond. We are to keep the sharpest lookout for them.” **Correct) If we find them, there won’t be any esca 0.” : *That’s whatever. Are you coming in?” ** Not just yet. We'll wait here till the other boys come up from the ravine where we left our horses,” Tbe man at the opening now disappeared, leaving the other two on the outside, seated on a — bowlder. in the shadow of the overhanging cliff. : It was evident that the two robbers intended to remain in the present position for some time, and a sense of uneasiness began to steal over Nat as he recognized this fact, It was possible that ne might be compelled to remain for hours in his unpleasant position, with scarcely a twig above him to furnish protection from the scoreh- ing sun, To attempt to leave his place of concealment, unobserved by the two robbers, would be use- less, That they were robbers he bad now re- ceived ampie proof in what he bad overheard, Even sbouli he remain where he was, there was a chance of is being discovered. What was to be done? He must remain silent and wait till an oppor- tunity to escape presented itself. A half-hour passed; then there came the sound of voices, proceeding from down the canyor, = the next moment three more men came into sight, At this, Nat Barker, who was still lying in his place of concealment, recognized bis peril. He would certainly be discovered. Flight would be useless, since he could not escape from the cavyon before be would be over- taken, To be ecnught in bis present position would instantly stamp him as a spy, and it re- quired no stretch of imagination to guess what his fate would beif discovered. That these men were the most desperate characters in Arizona, he well knew. But, there was notime tobe lost. In two min- utes more he would be discovered, Suddenly a thought came to him, It was a desperated one, but he had a0 choice. Quickly he rose to his feet, and walked slowly toward the two outlaws, his gun thrown carelessly across his shoulcer. ‘*Hello thar, pardners!” saluted Nat, in a hearty tone, as he approached, In a moment the two men had sprung to their feet, and stood confronting the new-comer with leveled weapons. “Tick kear!”® cautioned Nat, ‘‘ What the doose do ye mean by p’intin’ them things at me? Think I’m a varment or a robber? I ain’t goin’ ter hurt ye.” ‘“*Who are-you? and what do you want?” de- manded one of the ruffians, savagely, **What doI want? I want a chaw terbacker, but blamed if ye air goin’ ter take it so bard I'll wait till I git back ter Tucson!” t ‘* Who are your repeated tbe outlaw, sternly. ** Pardner,” said Nat, halting and surveying the men before him, ‘‘ don’t you think yere jist a leetle fresh?” ‘*No foolishness old man!” blurted the out- law, ‘* who are you? and what is your business here?” \ “* Wal, I don’t mind tellin’? my name bein’ yer so confounded perticular about i. They call me Dave Armstrong up at Tucson, but Ole Dave’s good enough fer me,” ‘* What are you doing here?” “Wal, I’m talkin’ ter a dinged fool right now, I reckon,” 1eturned Nat with a comical grin. ‘* Look bere, you old idiot!” cried the outlaw, ‘if you don’t keep a more civil tongue I’ll crack your bead with this gun-barrel.” An injared look came into Nat’s face. | “Say, pardner, do you own these mountains?” he queried, in a squeaky voice. ‘* You'll think we do before we get through with you, if you don’t change your tone.” * Ain’t I jist as civil as ye aire? Ye're the one that’s doin’ the sassy talkin’.” At this moment the three men whom Nat had observed came up, : ‘*What’s up?” asked one of the new arrivals, castin a suspicious glance at Nat, . around here, Do you know who he is “Don’t know him from Moses,” was the re- ply. e Gentlemen,” broke in Nat, addressing the men who had just come up, “ bave ye got any terbacker? I jist axed these fellers fer a chaw, an’ hanged if they didn’t want me ter tell °em whar I was born an’ give a history of Arizcny. A purty way ter treat a neighbor prospector,” e’ve just discovered this old coon ” Shab 5 and Nat seated himself on a bowlder, and » mopped tho perspiration from his brow with a large colored handkerchief. ; be robbers exchanged glances, It was evident that they were mystified by the stranger’s actions, ; Their first impression had been that he was a spy, but the apparent indifference of his manner puzzled them, Presently one of the outlaws said; “* Boys, we can’t be too careful. We're hard- working miners, and have got a little dust, so it stands us in hand to take care of it. There’s robbers in these parts, I’ve heard, and how do we know this old chap ain’t one of ’em, sent to spy out our camp?” ““T reckon we’d better hold him tell the boss comes,” suggested another. ‘* That’s my idea.” ** And mine,” echoed another, _— one of the robbers turned to Nat and said: ‘*Give me yourarms, You are my prisoner. You must remain with us till we are satisfied as to who you are.” , With this remark he approached Nat, and - took his gun and pistols, Nat offering no resist- ance, One of the outlaws then motioned one of the others to follow him, and the two withdrew a . sbort.distance from the rest. . ** Does he know of the cave?” asked one. ** No; 1 think not,” was the reply. ‘Then he must not be enlightened.” ** Where shall we keep him?” ra ‘*There is an old deserted log hut up the can- yon two miles from here.” ‘¢- Yes; [know where it is,” ** Well, we must send him up there in charge of two men, with orders to hold him till the cap- tain comes,” ** That will do,” ee The two returned to the spot where they had’ left their companions, and taking the weapons that belonged to Nat, one of them addressed a — swartby-skinned Spaniard. } “« Jose,” he said, passing the arms to the Span- jard, “‘ youand Jake take the prisoner up to the old cabin in the cpnyen and bold him till further orders. We think he is a spy. The captain will be here to-night.” The two men addressed as Jakeand Jose ad- vanced and motioned for Nat to move up the canyon, He obeyed in silence, knowing that resistance would only serve to put bis captors upon their guard, His only hope of escape now lay in | the chance of catching the two men who were guarding him off their guard. He would make no attempt till he was alone with them, Well Nat knew that, when they spoke of the ‘ cap- tain,” they referred to Mockton, Nat fully re- eognized the fact that if be should be held a prisoner until the robber chief’s arrival he was doomed. Mockton would recognize him;—of this he had not the slightest doubt. He must watch bis chance and make a desperate attempt to escape, : ' Once Nat glanced backward, but met the muz- zles of two rifles, followed by a warning not to attempt escape if he valued his life. Nat marched on in silence, his thoughts working rapidly. Where was Frank Hammond? There was a chance that he might come to the rescue. But more likely be would remain at the old house waiting for his comrade’s return. They had now traveled over a mile, and had entered a narrow pass, with tc weriug cliffs on either side, Suddenly there came a cry from one of the men behind. ; 1 oa Nat turned, and, as he did so, he saw one of the outlaws reel and fall backward, the blood — gushing from a bullet-hole in his breast. Yet | there megs been no report of any kind of fire- arms Jose the Spaniard stood as if stupefied for one brief moment, a look of borror on his swarthy face; then with a furious anathema he leveled — his rifle at Nat Barker’s breast. CHAPTER X. FRANK’S STRANGE ADVENTURE. — For’a 1ong time after Nat’s departure, a in Hamniond lay in the shadows of the. mernuite bushes, idly gazing across the rocky cliff that skirted the canyon, i What if some accident should befall hiscom- — panion, in his absence? spite of his promise | to remain in concealment until Nat’s return, | Frank felt strongly inclined to follow him, That | the outlaws bad their rendezvous near the place, | | he was fully satisfied, "9 y ‘ ae
Page 10
to a wide, irregular cleft in the of this, Fr - now almost smooth wall, - y ‘ve te It was nearly noon when he arose from bis re- cumbent position and glanced impatiently about him. Surely something bad happened to detain Nat. Asthe time went by and he did not re- turn, Frank became more and more convinced ‘that his comrade had got into trouble; and, filled with apprehension at this thought, he re- so]ved to go in search of him. Rifle in hand, he stole cautiously in the direc- tion taken by Nat. Four hours be wandered through the ravines and over hills without find- ing any traceof bis pard. Suddenly it occurred to him that Nat might have returned in his ab- sence. Acting upon this thought, he turned to retrace his steps. He bad not proceeded far when he was startled by the sound of approach-. ing hoofs, He bad barely time to conceal him- self behind a clump of bushes when he saw the feathered heads of a score of mounted Apaches appear above the hill and come directly toward his place of concealment. ‘Ina moment Frank recognized the fact that to remain in his present position would but result in his discovery. His only hope of escape lay in immediate retreat; but which way should he go? He was standing on the very edge of the precipice that overhung the great canyon below, and retreat in that direction was com- letely cut off. He glanced emg 5 about him. He might win by stealing along the edge of the cliff untila place of concealment _ could be found. Stooping low behind the bushes, be began a hurried retreat. Close behind him he could hear the tramp of horses’ feet. For a quarter of a mile he traveled—managing to keep ahead of the advancing savages; but now, as he glanc- ed ahead, he made the startling discovery that if he continued his course, he must soon cross a bare waste of shrubless hill, To attempt this would be to invite discovery. Theye was only one course left, and that was to d nd the cliff. If ae could do this he might escape the eyes of the red raiders. Ina moment he had crept to the verge of the precipice and peered over, A feeling of despair took possession of him, For nearly a hundred feet the precipice de- scended almost perpendicularly to a deep Narrow canyon. But on scanning the facao the cliff more closely he discovered a wide pro- ection twelve or fifteen feet below, ot esitating, he at once threw the strap of his gun about his shoulder, and commen to descend, clinging desperately to the small projections as he went, e had not completed half the descent when finding no further hand-holds on the smooth wail, he relaxed his grip and dropped safely to the shelf below, i Pausing now to listen, be could plainly hear the sound of horses’ feet passing along the sum- mit of the cliff above his bead. He shuddered. as he realized bis narrow escape, Presently the sounds above died away, and a deathly stillness lay over the wild, desolate scenes, fA telt-bour passed, The sun was low in the horizon. Deep shadows lay over the canyon. Convin now that the Apaches were no longer in the vicinity, Frank attempted to clix.b back to the top of the cliff. To bis surprise and chagrin he was unable to do so. Again and again he made the attempt but failed. Then it occurred to bim that. he might descend to the _ bottom of the precipice and return to the bill by a circuitous route. — rar ollowiug the shelf for several yards, he came + rocky wall, - which descended in such a manner as to form a sort of ruje stairway. Quickly availing himself apk. began to make his way down- ward. Jt was all of eighty feet to the bottom of the canyon, He had completed three-fourths of this distance, when, losing his hoid upon the e reeled backward and fell with a crash through the branches of a - small tree to the ground beneath, where he lay bruised and unconscious, | How long be remained ia that state he could not tell. When he regained consciousness he _ beheld a pair of dark, lustrous eyes looking, into _ his own, while the form of a lovely woman was neeling by his side, bathing his face and hands ith evol water. For several moments Frank did not venture to » ¥ ; meek bis whole being thrilled at the very touch bse this strange woman. Her face was of the urest type; her complexion a clear olive; her jovements as graceful as a panther’s, and as sha ep Cleopatra. rose with a sigh of relief as she saw the consciousness return to his countenance, 1 leani shi - iy) pg against the rocky wall, a Sing in ber dark aven the sof- i * tened glory of gathering twilight falling about her matchless form. Frank lay like one entranced, not venturing to speak, Jest the sound of his voice should dissolve tbe blissful vision, Never until bis dying day could he forget the picture she made as she stood there, her per- fect form outlined against the jagged cliff. Her raven hair fell in profuse masses about her shapely shoulders, and as she had reached up- ward and laid her hand upon the rocky wall, the loose sleeve had fallen back, revealing ber arm of ivory whiteness, and as perfect in its molding as if cast in ivory by some wizard sculptor of the hills, ‘You feel better, I hope?” she said, in a low, musical voice, fixing her eyes upon the unlucky Frank, ‘* Yes—yes, thanks to your kindness,” he re- plied, raising himself to a sitting posture. ‘It was awkward of me to fall down here,” ‘* Were you alone?” she asked. “Yes; I was attempting to descend the cliff to escape the Apaches when I feli, But, are you not in danger here, alone?” “T am not alone,” sbe answered, and as Frank glanced toward her, he saw her cast a glance toward the thicket near by as if expecting some ope to appear. Then, for the first time, the startling thought came to bim that this strange beauty was Merto, the Robber Queen ! A shudder passed over his frame; he covered ey face with his hands, a moan escaping bis ips, | fn a moment she bad hastened to his side and was bending over him. i ‘* You are badly burt,” she said, her head al- most against his own, while she held a cup of water to his lips. He drank eagerly. **T am better now, but how shall I ever repay your kindness?” He staggered to his feet as he spoke, and stood before her, a strange, throbbing sensation at his heart, bis whole soul drinking in her loveliness. She drew back and stood against the wall, looking more supremely beautiful than ever, the dark splendor of her eyes shining through the gathering dusk, ‘You must go, then,” with a sudden lifting of her band. He stood looking at her in a half-dazed man- ner, but made no effort to move, “Are you not going?” she asked, with a ges- ture of impatience. ‘‘ You forget that you may be in great a nae I have done wrong in shielding you. But bumanity demanded it; I could not do less.” She spoke hurriedly, her whole manner betraying excitement, *T will go—since you command me—but it is not for fear of any danger that might threaten me if I remained—” ‘* And you will not betray me, now that I have trusted’ you?” appealingly, her voice betraying her emotion, ‘* Betray you! J betray you?’ He stood look- ing at her as if spellbound, ‘‘ Never!” He spoke almost fiercely, a touch of reproach in his voice, ‘* Something tells me that I can trust you,” she said, in scarcely an audible voice, ‘‘ Heaven help me if I have done wrong, Good-by.” e reached forth his hand to detain her, but she had vanished among the thick bushes that grew along the base of the cliff, For severa) moments he stood there in the gathering darkness, as one turned tostone, then, without stopping to pick up his broken rifle that lay at his feet, he turned away like one in a dream, and walked down the canyon, Night was fast coming, and overhead the pale stars gleamed in a cloudless sky. Unmindful that unseen foes might be lurking in ever thicket—tbat be was surrounded by the most deadly dangers, he strode on, with only one thought in his brain, and that was—of the Robber Queen! ‘Tt is no wonder that she bas followers,” he thought. ‘I could almost sacrifice everything to be in her presence; and yet, she is an ad- venturess—an accomplice of robbers and cut- throats—” He threw out his band with a gesture of in- finite disgust at himself for bis weakness, Yet, in the next breath, a change came over his face, and a tender feeling crept into his eyes, i ‘It’s strange—very strange,” he muttered, ‘‘Why should that woman lead such a life? There is some mystery bere—a deep and black mystery. But will it ever be fathomed? Yes, I shall see her again,” he went on, vehemently ; ‘] will compel her to tell me the secret of her strange hfe—-” He stopped abruptly, as if about to carry his Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. — thoughts into execution. Then he strode ‘on, How far he had walked he did not know.- But, suddenly the sound of voices warned him that some One was near, Steps were approaching, and he had hardly time to seek the covert of the bushes when two men came into view. They approached till within twenty yards of him, when they halted, close to the base of the steep cliff. One of them then gave a low whistle, and the next moment a man appeared in an opening in tke thicket that grew against the rocky wall. ‘**Ts it you, captain?” he asked. ‘*' Yes; what’s the news?” Frank started at the sound of the last voice, and in an instant he recognized it as belonging to Bill Mockton! “There was a suspicious character here to- day,” answered the first speaker. ‘The deuce!. You did not let him go away?” cried Mockton. “ No,” Ts he here now?” ‘“*He is up at the old cabin in the canyon, under guard.” — ‘¢ Then he did not discover our retreat?” “*T think not.” ‘¢ What does he look like? Old or young?” fe Old, and is either half-fool or was playing a re. ; “It's Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective,” cried Mockton, rubbing his hands, with delight. “That's the biggest haul you ever made!” ’ Cries of astonishment came from the other two, ‘*And he is Maverick Mose!” one of them gasped. ; : **T could almost swear to it,” replied Mock- ton. ‘Is he well guarded? If he escapes we are ruined.” “Two of our best men, Jake and Jose, are guai ding him,” As Frank Hammond listened to these words the startling truth flasbed across his mind. Nat Barker, tbe strange old man who had yolunteer~ ed to guide him across the mountains, was none other than the great Arizona De‘ective, ‘‘ Mav- erick Mose!” And Maverick Muse was now a captive in the hands of the outlaws, awaiting Mockton’s arrival. Would he recognize the risoner? Frank felt sure that he would, and, f so, Nat’s doom would be sealed. The thres men had just started toward the opening when the sound of approaching foot- steps broke the stillness. he next moment the dark figure cf a man came around an angle in the cliff, There came a sharp click-click of rifles, ard then the voice of Mockton demanded: ‘* Who comes there?” A Mt CHAPTER XI. A STRANGE RESOLUTION. WuHeEN Nat Barker saw the outlaw stagger and fall, slain by some invisible hand, and saw the muzzle of the rifle in the hands of the re- maining outlaw leveled at his breast, he sprung quickly aside, aiming to avoid the shot and then to grapple with the desperado, but, before he pes put this thought into execution, there was a hissing sound in the air; the Spaniard dropped the gun from bis hand, and, with a low moan, sunk to the ground. : For one brief moment Nat stood as if pera-«~ lyzed with astonishment; then, snatching up the rifle that had fallen from the Spaniard’s hand, and nnd his two pistols in the outlaw’s belt, he darted into the nearest thicket, Pausing there a moment, he peered cautiously in every are but no sign of human presence was visible. The high cliffs stood as silent as death, under the blazing sun, and not a breath of wind moved the hot, dust-laden leaves, Although it was plain that the two robbers bad been shot down at his very side, no report had broken the stillness. “*Well, that rather heads me Soff,” mused Nat. “ Who in creation could ’a’ shot them and me not hear the gun? _ There’s some myster here I can’% explain. But, whoever ‘twas, it’s — done mea —that’s certain!” Then he thought of the strange ture and the skeleton be and Frank bad seen the right before. ‘wid AM “Maybe it’s the work of the Old Fellow bim- self,” mused Nat; ‘* but as it’s helped me out of a mighty tight place, I'll thank even the devil himself. Now, I'll just get out while I can—” With this he stole cautiously through the brush and down the valley, He had traveled but a short distance when he disccvered a place © E: By i \ id Ly od turn, and I’m etarnally obliged =|.
Page 11
Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. where he could ascend from the canyon, and | he uttered a sigh of relief as he burried across the hill toward where he had left Frank Ham- - mond. _ laws themselves! On reaching the place, he found that Frank had disappeared. “It’s strange, he muttered. ‘Something must ’a happened to the boy. Reckon he’s got into trouble with some of the varmants,” For ap bonr he searched the surrounding thickets for his missing companion, but failed to find any trace of him or clew to the cause of his absence. For hours he ei ight about the place, with the hope that Frank had only gone away ona reconnoitering expedition, and would soon re- turn. But he waited in vain, Already the shadows of approaching night lay deep across ravine and canyon. No scurd troke the stillness save the plaiative cry of the Mexican whip-poor-will which came from a neighboring thicket. ‘* Well, it beats all,” muttered Nat, ‘'I reckon Tll have to be trampin’. It won't do to stay here when the boy may be in trouble, ““Biast my cats!” he continued, “if there ain’t some deep mystery about this whole busi- ness, What did that monster and that skele- ton we saw last night mean? Who shot the two outlaws? It can’t be the work of the out- f Reckon they wouldn’t be killin’ each other jist to keep their bands in. Then, how was the shootin’ done without makin’ any sound? Gee whiz! it ain’t no use to try to See into it. I guess the outlaws] be surprised when they find that their prisoner’s gone and the two guards shot. So Mr. Red Rufus Il be here to-night, will he? I reckon he’d’a been = to see me, but I couldn’t afford to stay with is friends till he came—not much I couldn’t,” Presently he descended into the canyon and cautiously made his way toward the robbers’ re- treat. Hefelt sure that Frank had encountered some of the outlaws and had been taken prisoner, He was resolved to find out, and if bis compan- ion had got into their hands, he must attempt his rescue at all hazards. After a half-hour’s tramp the sound of voices came to him from beyond a thicket and he re- cognized one of them as belonging to Mockton! Well, it seems that the captain’s here at last,” the old mountain-man muttered. ‘‘I wonder if they know of my escape? I'll bet a hoss they don’t, Tl justcreep up closer aud learn what they’re talkin’ about ” And dropping on bands and knees, he began crawling stealthily in the desired direction, but had not passed over a dozen yards when he ' heard the sound of footsteps behind him. Fall- __ “Yes, we took his gu body! ing flat upon the ground he glanced backward, and could discern the figure of a man coming slowly toward him. 4 ‘Who can it be?” be asked bimself. not Frank—” The figure drew near. Nat grasped his rifle and waited, Nearer and nearer drew the person and then— du by, passing within a yard of where Nat ** Surely a . ““Tt’s not Frank,” he muttered; ‘‘ it’s one of ~ vet outlaws,” hen, as he peered through an opening in the thicket, he heard the sheen, operative chal- lenge from Mockton—t Who comes there?” and saw the figure reel and fall to the earth. Two dark figures hastily approached ‘the _ fallen man, with exclamations of surprise. “ [t's Jose,” gasped Mockton, as he raised bim up, ‘ He’s been shot!—quick! some water!” His companion burried away, and soon re- turned with a canteen, which they held to the wounded man’s lips. “How did this happen?” asked Mockton. “Are you hurt much?” “ El diablo! be shot_us both—he is a demon— a is the devil!” cried the Spaniard, in a weak Voice, : _. * Where is the prisoner? Has he escaped?” Yes, curse him! and left a bullet in my _ “And where is Jake?” “Dead! a bullet through his heart, I was as dead o hours,” e ; A _ The outlaws stood as if paralyzed. bi Diudn’e y, u disarm the prisoner?’ demanded -Mockton, ““‘ What does this mean?” nm and pistols, He had ng to shoot with—it is some of bis friends,” “Tt was the devil!” declared Jose, ‘He shot , aaa? ae a va ¥ «H US both, ‘and there was no sound of his gun.” 4, It was the Black Wizard!” cried another of the ontlaws xe had just come from the thicket. “We saw him the other night; he will kill us all; he isa demon—” — ) Ps ** Dogs! burros!” hissed the infuriated Mock- ton. * You are cowards—you are afraid of a shadow. It is a trick—a trick of the cursed officers! Come, let us get this man inside—and then we will search every bush and rock in this canyon, We will soon find your Black Wizard, and puta bullet through him /” They assisted the wounded Jose to his feet, and led him away. A few moments later they all disappeared through the thicket that grew about the entrance of the cave. “Well, things am gittin’ kinder interestin’ around these premesis,” chuckled Nat, as he rose from his place of concealment, but, just then, a dark figure rose from the bushes not ten yards away. Quick as a thought Nat’s rifle was at his shoul- er. ‘“*Who are you? If you move I'll bore you through!” he cried, 1n a low tone. “ Nat Barker !” exclaimed a well-known voice, ‘* Frank Hammond or I’m a liar!” ejaculated Nat, joyfully. ‘‘ Whatin the name of common sense aire you doin’ here?” “Searching for you,” replied Frank, ‘*' but how is it you are here, safe and sound?” “ Well, it’s jist the biggest piece of luck I ever had,” replied Nat, in a cautious voice, “But, come, boy, we must pull out of this, There's a nest of them varments in there, and I guess we ain’t ready to open up business with them just yit.” Realizing their danger the two men turned and stole noiselessly up the canyon. A half-hour’s rapid walk took them out of the great gully, and up into the hills lying to the north, As they neared the old building which they had visited in the meres Nat said: “We'll just rest here a little, and then pull for the ranch, 8 ‘That will do,” replied Frank. ‘1 don’t su pose the outlaws will be likely to strike our trail to-night, I think they are pretty well demoral- ized over to-day’s work.” ‘* You're talkin’,” affirmed Nat, as they threw themselves on the grass, Then Nat related, in a few words his strange adventure with the bandits—his capture, the mysterious shooting of the guards and his sub- sequent escape, ‘It is strange—very_ strange,” observed Frank, thoughtfully, ‘‘Who do you suppose shot the outlaws, Nat?’ * That’s jist what’s puzzlin’ me, There's some od peg here that I can’t see through, and from what I overheard of their conversation they’re as much in the dark about the matter as we are.” ‘* Perhaps it was the work of the Apaches?” suggested Frank, ‘‘I encountered a squad of them this evening while searching for you, and came near getting taken in, but escaped by climbing over the cliff.” “Shades of ole Christopher Columbo! but things are getcin’ interestin’! Injins, robbers and Ole Nick bimself are mixed up in one neigh- borhood!” “*T also had an adventure,” added Frank, “but before [ relate it, I move that we get a poe grub from our. haversacks and refresh our- selves, ** A good idea,” assented the other. ‘I’ve got a little water left in my canteen to wash itdown with.” Then as they devoured their provender of dried beef and bard bread, Frank related his adventure on the cliff and his strange meeting with the Robber Queen. * Holy Cesar!” ejaculated Nat. ‘* Ain’t you jokin’?” ‘No; it’s a solemn fact,” declared Frank. ‘Great guns! won’t wonders never cease?” *‘ And, Nat,” continued Frank, in a thougbt- ful voice, ‘‘there’s some great mystery con- nected with that woman’s ife,” and he could not conceal his enthusiasm as he described her wonderful beauty. ‘‘I know it just as well as if I bad heard it from her own lips, and if I live I mean to fathom it!” T low laugh escaped Nat, _ “ Better let the job out, young man,” he warned; ‘it ain't a very profitable occupation to go round fathomin’ that woman’s business,” ‘Yet I mean to take the chances,” “Great Scott! are you crazy?” ejaculated Nat, “That woman is the worst character in Ari- zona. She wouldn’t think any more of killin’ you than she would a snake if you crossed her—” ‘*T can’t believe it of her, Nat; there is some mistake; I know that woman can’t be as bad as you say. There is a deep plot somewhere—I am Boing, aa epee it—and before I leave these bills : j CHAPTER XII, NAT’S STORY—A MYSTERY INDEED, Nat BARKER was thunderstruck with aston- isbment at Krank’s expressed determination to visit the Robber Queen. ‘Thunder and tornadoes! do you want torun your head against a bullet?’ blurted the old guide, hardly crediting his senses, ‘*No; I can’t say that I do,” laughed Frank, amused at his friend’s vehemence, ‘‘ but you are making amountain out of a mole-hill. I don’t mean to rush blindly into danger, nor engage in any hand-to-hand fight with a gang of cut~ throats.” “Then, what do you intend to do?” é ‘* As I said before, | want to find out why it is that that woman leads such a strange life,and I mean todo so; but I shall use common sense, Have I not already seen her once—talked to her and escaped unburt? Why is it that I may not do so again?” Nat made a gesture of impatience. **Do you want to fall into Mockton’s hands again?’ be demanded. ‘* No; 1 can’t say that I do.” ‘Then keepaway from that woman, She is & devil—a murderess |” ** You don’t mean to say—” Nat stopped him with a gesture of impatience. ‘* Listen!” be cried, in a firm tone. ‘ You want to hear the history of that woman’s life, and why she leads the life she does. I can teli you—you need not go to her-—” ‘What! You ?’ ‘** Yes; I first met her up on the Pecos in New Mexico—” ** On the Pecos?” “Yes; but, don’t inter’upt me, I was then workin’ on aranch fora man by the name of Mark Conway—” : ‘““Why, be used to be my father’s partner,” broke in Frank, “Exactly. Well, as lsaid before, I was working on aranch for Mark Conway. When your father bought another ranch in Arizony he sold his in- terest in the one on the Pecos to Mr. Conway. That left a great deal of business on Conway’s hands, and he was just looking ubout for some one who could assist bim in this work, when Sim Burlock came, bringing recommencations from a well-known rancbman in_ Colorado, Mr. Conway bired him at once, and for some time he proved himself to he a valuable man, looking after the large business as faithfully as if it had been bis own. ‘A short time after Burlock bad taken'up — his residence on the ranch, bis sister, Azamerto Burlock, a pretty brunette, came from Los An- imas, and she and her brother lived in a house which had been built for their accommodation,, near the Conway ranch-house. ‘“Mark Conway's wife had died years before and he had but one child, Annie by name, and one of the pertiest girls in the Territory. She was jist nineteev, and had come from the East a wo" before, where she had been going to school. ** Well, things went on smooth enough for a month or two, then trouble began brewing. This Sim Burlock, it seems, got to paying at- tentions to Annie Conway. She disliked and avoided him on all occasions; but be wouldn’t take any dismissal, and kept ov forcing bis _ presence on her until finally she had to com- plain to her father. That night Mr. Conway ‘4 visited the house ocoupied by Sim Burlock and his sister, for the purpose of reproving Burlock for his ungentlemanly conduct, But be did not come back. ; “The next day the little house was found i oe There was blood on the floor, and Bur- lock and his sister had disappeared, 7 discovered that Miss been murdered by Burlock and his sister; that. was the conclusion of every one, But, the body of Conway could not be found. It was also dis- _ herder by the name of covered that a tram Wick Bolinger bad taken his departure, benitwas Conway was also gone. _ There was great excitement, Mr, Conway had | al 4 \ “ A posse of armed men immediately doy 4 out in pursuit of the fugitives. The next they came upon Bolinger in a deep can twenty miles from the Conway Ranch, Wh on, mee dered to surrender be refused and wasshotdown | " by the men in pursuit. He only lived an hour, but made a confession before he died, He sai that Conway and Burlock bad bad angry words on the fatal night, and Burlock had struck Con- way. Conway bad resented the attack, when he — 4 was stabbed to death by Azamerto, who had come to her brother’s assistance, Bolanger — was present at the time of the tragedy, and car- _ ried the body of the dead ranchman and threw it into the Pecos River, a short distance away, — fe
Page 12
1 ee? Ty t ¥ h ’ = ] : HG ’ 4 i. 12 Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. “ The three then entered the Conway residence, overpowered the housekeeper, and speedily bound and gagged Miss Conway, after which they plun- dered the house of all its valuables, including about five thousand in money, which Mr. Con- way had just received the day before, and had not yet placed in the bank. Then, under cover of darkness, they all fled to the hills, carrying Annie Conway along as a prisoner. The coun- try, far and wide, was searched, but nothing of the fugitives could be found. The letter of recommendation brought by Burlock proved to be a forgery: ** Since that fatal night detectives and officers, far and near, have been looking for Burlock and his sister, but all have failed to get bold of them. Knowing that they might never be caught if the work was left to the ones who bad undertaken the job, I left the ranch and swore never to return till the guilty were brought ‘to justice. I have tracked them irto the Sierra Madres in New Mexico, then to Tucson and to ‘Tombstone. Twice I have almost bad them but they escaped. In my search for Burlock and the murderess, his sister, [ have been the means of bringing a half-dozen robbers and murderers to justice, I make no friends or confidants. 1 am known as Maverick Mose, the Arizona De- tective. The officers whom I have had dealings with gave me the name. Now, after my long search, I have located the game atlast. You wanted a history of Merto, the Robber Queen. You have had it, She and Azamerto Burlock are one and the same !” As Nat finished his story, he leaned back against the trunk of a small tree, and gazed fix- “ through the darkness at his companion. ery of pain escaped Frank’s lips, and he covered his face with his hands, ** My dear boy,” continued Nat, ** you see how ‘foolish you are in thinking of putting yourself in the power of such characters as Merto, the Robber Queen, and her brother. You have al- Teady bad/a taste of Sim Burlock’s treachery and villainy.” ‘* What!” cried Frank, ‘‘ and he is—” “None other than our friend, Bill Mockton, an was 80 kind as toattempt our lives in Desert ity. ‘** That is enough!” returned Frank, extending his band to Nat. ‘ Let us leave here at once. I see now that 1 have been very foolish.” ‘The two friends clasped bands in silence, and arose from their positions on the ground, “* Now, I have a plan,” spoke Nat. ‘ We must push on to the ranch and obtain reinforcements, and capture the robbers before they become alarmed and leave this place—” “*You are right,” affirmed Frank, ‘ Let us be off.” And the two men started across the hill, tak- ing an easterly course. They traveled steadily until daylight, when they were in sight of the Hammond Ranch buildings, which were now only a few miles away. ' They made a short halt, and then resumed their journey, arriving at the cluster of build- ings about nine o’clock. Here a great surprise awaited ther. As they approached the house they were met by one of the cowboys, who informed them that Frank’s father had left for Desert City to meet . him, a week before. «Where is Rube Bentley?” asked Frank, ** At the house,” answered the cowboy, and the two men hastened down the walk to a large two-story dwelling, with wide, sweeping veran- das on three sides. ‘Rube Bentley was Richard Hammond’s fore- man and trusted clerk, who directed the entire business of the ranch in Mr. Hammond’s ab- sence. During the shipping season he usually spent some weeks in Kansas City, looking after his employer’s interests, and then it was that he and Frank bad met, and became warm friends, As the two men approached the house they were met by Bentley, who gave them a warm Sreoting. ¥ Anc father went to Desert City to meet me?” said Frank, a troubled look upon bis face. “Yes; bis long absence excited my alarm, and yesterday, on hearing that the Apaches were be again in this vicinity, I dispatched a dozen armed men to Desert may in search of bim. And so you have not seen him? That is strange! I fear something has happened to him.” _ “ Yes,” responded Frank, “he bas fallen into the hands of the Apaches or robbers, I’m afraid, and we must collect what men wé can and re- turn at once,” and Frank related briefly his and Nat’s strange adventures since his arrival at Desert City. we ‘A troubled look crossed Rube Bentley’s face. ‘You are right,” he said, leading the way into a wide, comfortably-furnisbed room; ‘ Vil order horses and arms for us immediately, and as soon as you have had a lunch, and taken a little rest, we'll start for the mountains,” As he spoke he hurried from the room to give tue necessary orders, In a few minutes Rube returned. **T can only muster seven men besides our- selves,” he said, ‘tI sent the best men on the rench to Desert City yesterday, and there are only some Mexican herders left. I don't know how they’d stand fire, should we encounter a gang of Apaches, But, Abe Gruder will accom- pany us—and he’s used to that sort of business— would be perfectly at home in a brush with the red-skins; but 1’m sure we’ll meet the other boys somewhere on the route,” ‘* We certainly will,” responded Frank. ‘ It seems strange that we did not meet them some- \ here in the hills,” "wo bours later, Nat Barker and Frank Ham- mond, accompanied by Rube Bentley, Abe Gruder and six Mexicans, rode in the direction of the bills that stood darkly outlined against the western sky. The sun was low in the horizon when they arrived in the vicinity of Urkos Pass, and slow- ly and cautiously made their way across the cliffs that lay to the north, Presently they arrived at the old Aztec build- ing which Frank and Nat had visited tbe day before, Herea balt was made. The men dis- mounted to give their jaded horses a breatbing spell, and bold a consultation. Nat then explained the situation to Bentley, giving the location cf the robbers’ cave, “ Now, the first thing to be done,” said Rube, ‘isto push on till we meet the other boys, Then, if they have beard nothing of Mr. Ham- mond, we'll make an attack upon the outlaws, Those devils are becoming very troublesome of late, and only a month ago a ranchnan was ptured by them and beld for $10,000 ran- som, These outrsges are becoming of such frequent occurrence that it’s time the people had taken the matter in hand, I fear that Mr, _Hammond has been captured by them, and they are perhaps holding him, only waiting for a favorable opportunity to dernand a ransom.” ‘Tt does look that way,” affirmed Nat, ‘* He never reached Desert City, that’s sure, and if he bain’t fallen into the hands of these varmints I’m mistaken,” “ Frank,” said Rube, turning to address the young ranchman, but he stopped and looked in- quiringly around, Frank had disappeared. va ere is Frank?” asked Rube. “T think he went into the old house there,” answered Abe Gruder. Rube and Nat entered the building, and a few moments later came out, a puzzled expression on their faces. ‘‘ He’s not in there,” observed Rube. ‘‘ Where can he be?” Hurriedly they glanced about them, Then they searched the surrounding thickets. They called to him, but no answer came, They looked at each other with blank faces. What did it mean? Frank Hammond had disappeared as mys- rene ag as if the earth had opened and ingulfed im! CHAPTER XIII. AN EVENTFUL NIGHT. A LOOK of consternation overspread the faces of the little party. ‘Surely be must be here somewhere,” de- clared Rube. The search was renewed, but notthe slightest trace of young Hammond could be found. What could have happened to bim? Surely he would not have gone away without saying a word to any one. “TI tell you what, boys,” observed Nat, ‘**there’s'some devilish Bo ipoomg connected with this place,” and be related the story of his cap- ture by the outlaws and his final escape, giving an account of the strange shooting of the two guards by some invisible marksman, and of the ye sat sight seen on the cliff, the night be- ore. ‘Looks as if the devil himself bed taken pos- session of these parts,” declared Abe Gruder. The Mexicans looked frightened, and crossed themselves repeatedly. “ There’s some human agency behind it all,” asserted Nat, “‘ but it’s a puzzler.” “Well, what is to be done?” asked Rube Bentley. ‘I’m not willing to leave this place till we find Frank.” ‘ ‘ **Nor am I,” added old Nat; ‘‘ but we'll never “ do anything by standin’ round bere talkin’. If he’s on this hill, we want to find bim, and if not, we want to know it, Let’s searck every bush and rock within a quarter of a mile of the place, and go at it rigbt now,” ; “ That’s the talk,” responded Abe Gruder. The little crowd gathered in a knot, while Nat arranged the plans of procedure, *“Now, Rube,” said Nat, ‘“‘ you stand guard over our horses and traps while we do the searchin’, and if ye see any one prowlin’ around, jist notify us by firin’ your gun, and we'll be here in a jiffy.” Then Nat, Abe Gruder, and the six Mexicans scattered out over the hill and began their search, For nearly an hour they scanned every nook and thicket and rock far and near, but no trace of the missing one could be found, Then at a signal from Nat they all returned to the old house to decide on what was to be done next. ‘“* Rube, did you see or hear anything to excite suspicion while we were gone?” asked Abe, as they came up to the place where Rube bad been left. No answer, ** Rube?” Silence, Hurriedly they glanced about the place. Rube Bentley had disappeared ! ‘*Mother of God! the place is bewitched!” cried one of the Mexicans, crossing himself, “ Fl diablo! We will all be killed!” gasped another, trembling with fear, Nat and Abe looked at each other, and were silent, They were dumfounded, ‘‘T don’t understand it,” muttered Nat, break- ing the silence, ‘‘Great Cesar! what can this mean?” Exclamations of terror came from the Mexi- ans, ** Mother of God save us!” chorused the Mexi- cans straining their eyes across the bill, Nat and Abe glanced up the canyon to the west and a startling sight met their gaze, — There, upon a lofty rock, overlooking the deep canyon, stood that strange monster—the Black Wizard, enveloped in a blood-red light, a white grinning skeleton in the background! The next moment there came a series of un- earthly yells from a score of savage throats, far down the canyon, and the faint sound of many hurrying feet. / With cries of mortal terror upon their lips, the Mexicans turned and fled across the hill, as if pursued by avenging demons, Nat and Abe burried in pursuit, endeavoring to quell their superstitious fear, but they might as well have attempted to stop a herd of fright- ened antelopes, — i With a muttered exclamation of chagrin and disgust, Nat stopped, and turning to bis com- panion, said: “Tt ain’t no use to try to stop ’em, Abe, The onery cusses "Il run till they’re give out, May- be they'll return if they find we ain’t follerin’ em. ‘* Let’s go back and see to the horses,” said Abe, “It looks as if the old devil was working against us, sure enough,” As the two men turned to retrace their steps they found tbat the strange apparition had vanished as mysteriously as it had appeared. ‘* Nat,” remarked Abe, ‘“‘did you hear that yelling down in the canyon? It was Apaches as sure as you are living.” ; ‘* We've got to be on the lookout,” replied Nat, “‘ or we'll run into some of them prowlin’ ~ varmints, They’re thicker ’an fleas on a dog, *round these parts.” “Yes, and we’ve got to keep an eye on the horses. It won’t do to be left afoot out here; and then, there’s Frank and Rube, My God! what can this mystery mean? Where can the boys be? They wouldn’t ’a’ gone away without telling us, and blamed if they have gone away. They must be around here somewhere, and I’m in foy staying right here tilldaylight, if we don’t find them before.” ‘ “That’s me, exactly; but, we must keep kinder shady. Now let’s tie the horses to the trees there against the wall of the ole house, so that they won’t be so easily seen by any one that might be sneakin’ around. Then we'll jist lie down here in the thicket and wait for day- light. 1 guess them Mexicans ’ll come back as soon as they get over their scare, The boys who were sent to rt City ought to be along bere to-night some time, and we want to keep our eyes and ears open.” aA In a short time the two men had bropght the horses and tied them securely in the shadow of the old house, then secreting themselves in the thicket near by, they waited ard listened. Two hours went by. {
Page 13
Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective, 13 “Hark!” cried Nat, suddenly, breaking the silence, ‘* Did you hear that?” * What was it?” **Some one’s comin’, Listen!” The two men bent their ears to the ground, and as they did so they could hear the tramp of advancing feet, ‘i - It's the Greasers comin’ back,” whispered Qe. 4 The steps drew nearer and nearer. Suddenly the dark forms of a dozen men could be seen ad- vancing cautiously across the bill, “Quick! let us, get finto' the ole house,” whis- pered Nat, excitedly. ‘It’s the outlaws!” Silently the two men rose and burried toward the house, but before they had gained sbelter be- hind its walls, exclamations from the advancing outlaws told them that they had been discover- a Keep behind the wall,” cautioned{Nat as they ~ entered the old building, ‘‘ and be ready for busi- ness if they try to come upon us,” The two men threw themselves upon the floor and peered out through the open door, clutching their rifles, ready for whoever might come. When scarcely fifty yards away the outlaws halted, and appeared to be holding a consulta- tion, The next moment half of their number stole around and stopped on the opposite side of the building. “‘ They’ve got us surrounded,” whispered Nat, “and we’re in a devilish close place.” Ten minutes passed; then they saw the form of a man approaching. Twenty yards from the building the figure halted, and a voice called out | ‘* Hello! Who's in there?” : Instantly Nat recognized the voice as that of Bill Mockton! ae well behind the wall, Nat replied: ‘““What business is it of yours, who’s in here?” “* Well, come out. We want to speak to you,” returned Mockton, : Y Nobody’s holdin’ you.” Speak away. “Don’t get too impudent. It will only be the worse for you. We've got you cornered. Are you coming out?” ‘ Not this trip.” ‘“Then we wilt make you come.” “All right,” “We are six to your one.” ; “How do you know you are?” ‘There are only two of you. We saw you go in. — why don’t you come ahead and take us ** Because we don’t want to kill you, if you'll surrender without trouble,” “What do you want with us?’ demanded Nat. “ Who are you? and what do you mean?” “* We are officers, and want you to return to Desert City with us.” ‘* What for?” “Have you forgotten that you broke jail there? You forget that I know who you are,” I have not forgotten that you tried to blow me up in the jail, you bloody villain!” A muttered oath escaped Mockton’s lips, _ order my men to fire on you in five min- utes if you don’t come out and surrender.” ‘If you do, some one will get burt.” “‘ We'll take the chances,” and with this the outlaw, who had kept his body well behind a huge bowlder during the conversation, crept “ “ack to the place where his men were awaiting him, “They won’t surrender?” asked one of the men, ** No,” replied Mocktor, sullenly, ‘ ‘W, t attack ies Ee «6 as ** Do you think they will resist if we do” “Yes, curse them! till they are killed.” . a is 1 eh Mose?” nes es, and we must capture him at any cost, He must never leave this place alive |” a Ore CHAPTER XIV, THE OUTLAW’S SCHEME, THovuenH Nat Barker and Abe Gruder were fortified in a place where it would be a danger- ous undertaking for the enemy to attempt their capture, yet they recognized the fact that they _ Were in a most grave situation. Only a small portion of water remained in their canteens, and it would only be a question of time when thirst would drive them to surrender, pire the outlaws prolong the siege. They might attempt escape by cutting their wa _ through the enemy’s lines, but this would be al- rtain death since the house was complete- ly surrounded. “Ifthem cowardly Greasers badn’t left us,” Nat, “ we could clean up the whole gang.” ‘*T wouldn’t feel very sorry if the Apaches -would get every one of their onery scalps,” averred Abe, wrathfully. Mockton well knew that the two men would resist any attack they might make, and that it would be a dangerous undertaking to attempt to rout them from their stronghold. ‘*Zeb,” said Mockton, addressing one of his men, ‘‘can’t we hit upon some plan to capture these devils without a fight# We must hit upon some scheme to outwit them without running our heads against their rifles.” ‘““That’s jist my idee, exactly.” ‘* What scheme would you suggest?” The outlaw addressed as Zeb remainod silent for some time, and then he said: “There was an attempt made to blow up these same cusses in Desert City—” ‘** Yes—curse them, but they escaped!” “‘ And they may not do so the next time.” **'You mean to blow up this old building!” “ Bixactly.” “‘Good! But, how is it to be done? They are on the watch,” ‘** Look,” and Zeb pointed to some high rocks, surrounded by a growth of bushes, and not ten a from the wall, ‘* We can approach from ehind these, without running any chance of be- ing seen. Then the powder can be thrown in before they know what has happened.” ‘‘ But, there is no door on this side—how will we manage to get the shot inside the building?” ‘* There is no door, that is true, but there is a big hole in the roof near this side which will answer still better.” ““T see! The scheme is a good one, and now let’s get ready for business. Have we got plenty of powder?” “Yes; there’s a whole keg in the cave—that which we captured from the prospectors,” ‘“‘Then let us return to the cave at once and bring what is needed, But first, I must tell the boys what we intend to do, and instruct them to keep the closest watch over the old building till we return,” In a few moments the men were made ac- | uainted with the proposed scheme. Then ockton and Zeb set out for the cave, eager to put their plan into execution. A half-hour later the two outlaws entered the cave. They passed the guard at the entrance, and threading their way through a narrow, windin ssage, they soon came to a large room, lit by a half-dozen miner’s lamps, The floor was covered with a tkick layer of soft white sand, over which were scattered here and there, some rude articles of furniture, Zeb passed on to the far end of this cavern, while Mockton turned into a small passage leading to the left, and soon arrived at a room of some twelve to fourteen feet in length, by ten feet in width, lit by a single tin lamp. In one corner of this room, upon a couch of furs, reclined the form of a woman, dark and beautiful, with a mass of raven hair falling about her shapely shoulders, She started up as Mockton entered, her dark cree shining strangely in the lamp’s flickering ight. af What news? have you found them?” she asked, in a low, eager voice, ’ “Yes; itisas I supposed, Maverick Mose is here, and we have got him cornered, and he sha’n’t escape us this time,” ‘* Where is he?” she questioned, **Tn the old ruined building on the hill.” ** You will not fail this time?” ; ‘“No; curse him!” hissed Moekton, an evil light shining in hiseyes, *‘ we'll get him this time if it costs us our lives!” “ Are you sure thatit is Maverick Mose?” ‘There is not the least douht.” ‘How many are with him?” “Only one,” “Ts he an officer or a detective?” : “T hardly think he iseither, but then he'll be treated as if he were.” ‘* Tf he does not escape?” **1°l] see that ke don’t.” . “But, if they should both escape?” “Then we are ruined,” i If we remain here, you mean?” “ But if we should leave the country—” “Tt is not easy for so many of us to escape when the place may be watched.” A sarcastic laugh escaped her lips. ne t uot all the money in my possession?” she as ‘“'Yes—but you don’t mean—?” “We must take it and leave. There is no honor among thieves,” with a low laugh. The outlaw’s eyes glistened, “Do you mean in ‘* Listen,” she cried, in a low voice, glancing toward the ‘*why should we stay here and run our necks into arope? Let what come will, this place is’ spotted, and we are idiots if we remain. The officers are already getting wind of us, and we must not stay here and fall into their net.” ‘*Merto, you are a genius! We.shall do as you say—and to-morrow night!” ‘*That will do. I will be ready,” The sound of approaching steps came from down the passage. ** Ready, captain?” came the voice of Zeb, who just then appeared in the doorway, carrying a keg of powder and a coil of fuse. * All right,” answered Mockton, hurrying down the passage to join bis companion, A few moments later they left the cavern and walked. swiftly toward the old Aztec building on the bill. They found the men waiting eagerly for their arrival, “Seen anything of them?” questioned Mock- ton ‘“No; everything is as still as a graveyard; but there are inore than two in there—” ‘Why do you think so?” ‘*There’s a lot of horses tied among the trees by the wall—seven or eight—maybe more. We couldn’t count ’em without riskin’ gittin’ a bullet in our head,” ‘The blazes! Well, we'll scon see,” “ That’s whatever!” affirmed Zeb, ‘‘ And now for business,” and he began fixing a fuse in the keg of powder. ** You must be careful and not let them get: sightof you,” cautioned Mockton, ‘They are cunning devils and will be on the lookout,” “They're not going to get a squint at me,” as- serted Zeb, confidently. ‘‘And when I drop this little keg over into their castle, I don’t think they'll have much time to see where it comes from.” ‘‘ Have you made the fuse short?” ** Yes; it will explode in ten seconds after it: . leaves my bands,” Mockton then made a circuit of the building, informing all the men of what was going to be done, ; ‘Now we are ready for business,” he an- nounced, as he returned to where Zeb was wait- ing his orders, “Hark!” ejaculated Mockton; ‘‘ was that a voice in the old house?” They listened intently for several moments. **T don’t bear anything,” responded Zeb, ‘* Better wait a little,” suggested Mockton. ‘We're in no hurry. We've got ’em cornered, and can afford to wait till we have the best chance.” A half-hour passed, and silence lay over the old building. ; “Now, go ahead with the circus,” whispered Mockton, ‘and we'll keep you covered with our uns, . A moment later Zeb bad taken the keg of pow- der and was crawling cautiously toward the large bowlder that formed an impenetrable breastwork within ten yards of the northern wall of the building. Reaching there, he paused and listened intently. No sound came from the inside. Then he rose to a sitting position, and striking a match, held it to the fuse, one end of oh ain was securely fastened in the keg of pow- er, A little wreath of black smoke arose as the tar on the fuse began to burn, then—a small stream of brilliant sparks shot upward, followed by_a low, hissing sound. The fuse bad caught! _ Ina moment Zeb arose to his feet, and call- ing all his wpe ec into play, he threw the keg over the wallof the old house. The next mo- ment it descended through the broken roof and fell with a dull sound on the inside, Quick asa flash the outlaw turned about and threw bim- self behind the sheltering rocks, Scarcely bad he done so when a terrific report shook the very earth, A great tongue of flame leaped high in the air hurling huge masses of stone before it. “T reckon that settles ’em,” chuckled Mock- ton, as Zeb hurried to bis side, ‘ ‘“That’s whatever!” responded Zeb, grimly. ‘IT guess wecan goin and get their sausage when the smoke clears away.” ee But, at that moment, a cry of alarm came from the outlaws, Nearly a dozen horses, snorting with fear, came leaping wildly out of the thicket near the old building, and scattered across the hills, ‘“‘ There’s a whole nest of them devils in there,” declared Mockton, and if they ain’t killed they may give us ble,” The first streaks of coming dawn were now ' Ss % age leading to the outer cave, — ‘* We've got to be cautious, | e * + “ bs vi
Page 14
EA visible in the eastern horizon. The cloud of smoke that hung over the building had drifted ‘ away. The light in the east grew brighter and brighter. ‘ Then Mockton ordered every man to advance upon the building. With rifles ready for instant use they obeyed. They reached the door, and with a sudden rush they entered and glanced hurriedly about them. Nothing but a mass of shattered rocks met their gaze, The two men had disappeared ! CHAPTER XV. LEFT IN THE DARKNESS. We will now return to Frank Hammond, whose strange disappearance had so greatly mystified his companions, heu Frank entered the old building he little dreamed of the strange adventures that would befall him before he emerged from its molder- ing walls. He stood for some time gazing at the queer bor gaa em Fe displayed in the smooth polished walls of pale blue cement and stone, As bis eyes wandered aimlessly over the room, the gleam of something in the crevice of the rocky floor attracted his attention. Advancing across a huge pile of rubbish that lay on the floor, he picked up the gleaming ob- ject, and discovered it to be a small golden locket, of delicate workmanship, A look of surprise overspread his face as he gazed at the beautiful trinket, so out of place did it seem in that de- serted ruin. ‘‘Strange how this came’ here,” he muttered. As he spoke he touched the spring. The locket flew open, disclosing the miniature of - a beautiful young gir], with large, shadowy eyes that seemed imbued with life as they looked calmly out of that finely molded face in its gold setting. An exclamation of astonishment broke from Frank’s lips: ‘* The Robber Queen !” he cried, a strange ex- pression crossing his face, Then his, eyes fell on another picture in the other side of the locket. It was of a man, apparently of riddle age, with something about it that impressed Frank that he had seen that face somewhere, **Who can it be?” he mused. ‘Surely I have seen that face before, and yet—” He stopped abruptly, a sudden gleam of recog- nition crossing his face, “© Nat Barker! Great Heavens!” The words fell from his lips in a startled whisper. ‘‘ What new mystery is this? Surely—” As he spoke he stepped back ward into the cor- ner so as to avail himself of the light that was streaming through a huge hole that had been broken in the roof. The next moment he felt the great slab of rock give way beneath his feet. He sti red wildly—threw out his hands, clutched desperately at the smooth wall, and then—fell down—into the darkness below! Stunned, bewildered, and only half conscious, he lay for a long time at the bottom of the ie hole or pit into which he had fallen, hardly real- - izing what had happened. All was as black as . ink about bim. With an effort he staggered to bis feet and tried to etrate the surrounding darkness, He turned his eyes upward, but not a gleam of light met his gaze. The great stone that had moved to let him in had returned to its place, apparently. : 7 Tings _ As soon as he could collect his scattered facul- ties, he realized that he had fallen into some secret cavern or cellar beneath the old struc- ture, The floor on which he stood was soft, and ‘yielded to bis feet as if covered with sand. He reached out his hands and they came in contact with a smooth rocky wall, To attempt to climb it would be useless, He shouted at the top of his voice to hie com- panions, but no answer came in response to bis call. Again and again he shouted loudly, but to mo purpose. __ It was impossible for him to tell the depth of _ ‘the pit into which he had fallen. It was twenty feet at least, and he knew that it would be im- ssible for his companions to hear his call un- Jess they were in the room. overhead. He listened, but all was silent. Where were _ his companions? Well he knew that they would search for him as soon as his absence was dis- _ @overed, but it would only be by the rarest ee if they found his place of imprisonment. “They would fe amin simply glance into the - rooms of the old house, and then go elsewhere to search for him, — “ae oe remembered his match case, and g it from his pocket he hurriedly struck Ma reel >. f 7 BY the aid of the feeble flame he discovered Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. that he was in a narrow passageway, with smooth rocky walls rising many feet above his head, and extending back into tbe darkness, how far he could not tell. Lighting another match, he held it above his bead, and found that it was full twenty feet to the floor from whence he had fallen, The walls were sosmooth that he saw it would be impossi- ble to scale them, Glancing about the floor he beheld the locket he had found in the bld house, lying at his feet. As he stooped to pick it up he started with as- tonishment, Placing the locket in his pocket, began eagerly examining the soft sandy oor, It was covered with tracks which had been made by the delicate shoe of some woman! *¢ Ah, the Robber Queen!” he muttered, ‘‘ She has been here, and maybe-—” A sudden thought struck him. Perhaps -the underground passage led to the robbers’ cave! This seemed more than likely. There was a faint breath of fresh air coming into the cavern from some quarter, This convinced him that there was an opening from the passage somewhere. Perhaps it wasnot faraway. He turned about, and as he did so he caught the gleam of a light far down the rocky hall. Somes one was com- ing toward him carrying a torch! na moment Frank sunk behind an angle in the wall and waited in breathless silence. As the figure with the torch drew nearer, Frank discovered that it was a woman, and, as the light fell on her face, he instantly recognized her as the Robber Queen! He rose from his place of concealment and stood in the narrow circle of light. She uttered a gasp of terror as her eyes fell upon the intruder, and was turning to fly from his presence, when his voice stopped her. ‘* Hold, lady!” he cried, ‘‘ you need have no fear of me, Gate you forgotten that we have met before?” “And this is the way you keep your prom- ises?” scornfully, He lifted his hand and pointed upward. ‘*T fell through from the old house, It is no ' fault of mine that I am here.” An incredulous look came into her eyes. “Tt was this that caused it all,” he went on, drawing the locket from his pocket.. ‘I step- ped into the corner of the room to examine it and before I knew it I fell through some kind of a stone trap-door, The locket is yours, I dare say. Allow me to return it to you,” extending the trinket to her. ' “ Thank Bak she said, taking it from his hand, ‘I lost it several days ago. I did not expect to see it again.” “May I ask, how ig: came by the picture of the gentleman in that locket?’ queried ank, She flashed him a haughty glance, “IT shall answer no questions from one whose presence is an intrusion,” she replied, with a ges- ture of impatience, ‘Leave this place at once I command you!” How wondrously beautiful she looked, stand- ing there in the flickering torch-light, her roud, ful form drawn to its full height, er dark lustrous eyes gleaming with a soft splendor, The young rancher stood as if spell-bound, | fascinated by the strange beauty. as it pos- sible this was the Robber Queen? a length he lifted his hand and pointed to the wall, ‘You command me to leave, and yet I can- not obey. How am I to scale that wall?” “Ah! I forgot that you do not know the way,” she replied, and motioning him to follow, she led the way through a narrow passage. Presently they came to what appeared to bea rude spiral stairway cut into the rocky wall and leading upward, | The beautiful guide mounted this and led the way around a huge column of glittering spar that gleamed like marble in the light of the flar- ing torch, ; Following this stairway for some time, she ea ead pointing to a large flat stone over- head, said; “ There is the place where you leave through, Pull on the iron ring and the way will be open. “hy Frank advanced to her side, and reaching up- ward, pulled on an iron ring that was fastened to a great flat stone. Instantly the rock turned pha a pivot, disclosing an opening to the room above, ~ i As he did so an exclamation came from over- head, and, the next moment, the face of Rube Bentley was bending over the opening. ‘* Hello, Rube!” greeted Frank. ‘‘I—” He stopped suddenly, for a ery came from be- hind, and then the sound of a falling body down into the cavern below! ‘“My God! she is killed!” gasped Frank, in an agonized voice, Then calling to Rube, he cried: **(@uick, Rube! for God’s sake come down and help me! There’s a woman here, and she’s killed!” Speechless with astonishment, Rube let him- self down through the opening, and was pulled onto the stairway’s narrow footing by Frank, “For Heaven’s sake let us hurry!” entreated Frank, as he half pulled his companion after him down the rocky stairs, The torch had fallen into the cavern, and was extinguished, and the two men were compelled to make their way by tbe light of matches, which Frank struck as they descended the winding stairs, Stopping to explain nothing to bis mystified companion, Frank led the way down the pas- sage, and soon came to a dark object lying upon the sandy floor, the extinguished torch lying near by. : Quickly picking up the torch, Frank lit it, Then handing it to Rube, he bent over the senseless form at his feet. There was a deep cut on the side of the wom- an’s head, and her colorless face was flecked with blood, which was slowly oozing from the wound, “My God! she is killed!” cried Frank, lifting the unconscious form in his arms, “ Quick, Rube! give me some water from your canteen!” Rube handed his canteen to Frank, who took it and began bathing the insensible woman’s ce. ‘* Shell come around in a moment,” said Rube, eonfidently, feaing her pulse, ‘* She’s just been stunned by the fall.” And, quickly removing his coat, he placed it on the floor and Frank deposited bis fair burden upon it. Then, removing his own coat, he placed it beneath her head. ‘* Just give ber a little of this stuff,” advised Rube, taking a flask of brandy from his pocket, ‘*T guess she'll come round all right.” rank knelt down and forced some of the brandy between the set, white lips, and was soon rewarded by coin 4 the color return to ber cheeks and lips. Then her eyes slowly unclosed, and she gazed about her in a bewildered man- ner, : ‘“ What has happened?” she asked, in a feeble voice, a terrified look coming over her face, “You fell from the roc up there,” replied Frank, ‘‘ but, thank Heaven! you are not burt as badly as I feared you were, For several moments she did not speak. Then suddenly raising herself, she staggered to ber feet. ‘‘T_-J—am better now,” she faltered, leaning against the wall, ‘I thank you for your kind- ness—but you must go now—” and she pointed toward the eoaab hf , Then her eyes fell on Rube Bentley. “ Betrayed! Oh, my God! I am lost!” she cried, in an agonized voice, and before Frank could divine her intention, she struck the torch to the floor, extinguishing it, and then turned and fled down the passage, CHAPTER XVI, _\IN THE GREAT CAVERN. FraNK HamMOND and Rube Bentley stood speechless witb surprise for one brief moment, and then recovering his presence of mind Frank hurriedly relit the torch, But before this could be accomplished the strange beauty had disap- peared, j “Come!” cried Frank, matting foes the | ssage, ‘let us go after her. She may be dly burt, and wil! need our assistance,” “Great Beott!” ejaculated Rube, as’ be fol- lowed his companion. *‘ Who is this woman? and what does her strange conduct mean?” Briefly Frank rela his meetin Robber Queen, at the base of the cliff, and then of his falling through the oor in the old house, and his meeting with her again in the cavern, Rube gave vent to a low whistle, , ‘And you would risk running intotherob- | bers’ den, and getting a bullet through you! No, I thank {ns I don’t want any of that k \ of sport,” and Rube stopped. ‘‘ Frank,” he con- tinued, “let us return to our companions at once, They are searching fur you now, and they will be greatly alarmed.at my absence. It is madness to follow that woman, We must go back without a moment’s delay.” “You are turning about, * We must returp et once,” — with the | ind rigbt, Rube,” admitted Frank, |
Page 15
- de Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. The two men had traveled more than a hun- to the building, they beheld a dozen cowboys | this cave, but we must find her and rescue her or dred feet through the winding passage, and now they turned to retrace their steps, They walked hurriedly up the narrow passage or corridor, Presently they came into an immenseroom, with its ceiling fully thirty feet above their heads! “ Frank,” said Rube, gazing about in aston- ishment, ‘‘ we have taken the wrong direction. We most go back and find our way.” But this was easier said than done. For an hour they wandered from passage tc passage without finding the stairway leading to the old building above. The floor over which they were now passing was of smooth hard rock, and it was impossible to follow their own trail back to the entrance. With sinking hearts the two men realized their desperate situation. They were lost in the laby- rinth of a great cavern and might never find their way to the outside. The torch they carried would soon burn out, and then they would be left to grope their way in total darkness. : They traveled from room to room, and the night was well near spent. A feeling of despair tame overt etwomen. Another bour and the torch would go out, and then— A cry of joy escaped Frank’s lips, Suddenly emerging from a side passage, they had come upon the rocky stairway leading up to the old Aztec ruin! Quickly the two men ascended the stairs, and, reaching the :op, Frank pulled down on the iron ring, disclosing the opening above, As they did so, they heard exclamations in the room overbead, and the next moment Nat Bar- ker and Abe Gruder were peering down at the two men through the opening. “Great Cassar! where’d youcome from?” cried Nat in astonishment. “* From down there,” replied Rube, laconical- ly, pointing to the cavern. And ina few words be explained the cause of his and Frank’s strange absence, “Boys,” said Nat, ‘this place is surrounded by Mockton and his men. The cursed Greas- ers have deserted us, and we're in a close place,” “Come!” criea Frank, hurriedly. ‘ There’s plenty of room down bere for a thousand men, and we'll give the outlaws the slip.” ‘That’s the idea, exactly,” agreed Nat, and uickly the two men let themselves down through the opening to the stairs. Then, allowing the huge stone to return to its place, all four made their way down the wind- ing stairs to the cavern. ‘The next thing to be done,” observed Nat, “tis to find a way out of this subterranean world,” a ‘That is easier said than done,” replied Frank. We spent half the night wandering through fhese passages, and found no way out, and came very near not getting back to the place we started from, Besides, this torch wcn’t burn much longer—” Frank stopped abruptly, for, at that moment, a terrific Ny pe ove shook the very earth, and then came the crash of falling rocks in the old building above. Then a great hole was broken in the rocky floor, and a huge mass of stones fell into the cave with a Joud crash, Great Ca-ar!” ejaculated Nat, ‘them devils have blown up the building!” “Yes, and weo esca b ur teeth,” responded Abe Sones eer ere _ Quickly the four men drew back into a small recess in the cavern, and extinguished the torch, ; ‘‘Now, boys, keep your ears open and look out,” warned: Nat, “them onery devils may take it into their heads to come down here after us, For some time the four men crouched there i the darkness, listening intently forany aeiccann of the foe. oo Sudcenly they heard footsteps in the old house overhead, Then followed a succession of bitter oaths, which could be plainly heard through the broken floor. This was succeeded by the sound of the rapid discharge of fire-arms, _ “Hark! there’s a fight gulng ion up there!” exclaimed Rube. ‘It’s the boys returned from Desert City! Come, let us go to their assist- ance! They have attacked the outlaws!” “You're talkin’,” cried Nat, ‘and let us all take a band,” “ever pa oes aa scrambled u = rock talrs, ing their weapons y for instant use.” A Rae noenents later they stood _ in the ruined building. Quickly they glanced now, “Sout them, The house was empty, and they hurried to the outside, It was broad daylight A ringing cheer greeted them, and, close 1 and the six Mexicans who had deserted them the night before. ** Come on boys, we’ve got the rascals!” cried one of the cowboys motioning to Rube and his three companions, Then, as the four joined the newly arrived party, they found that five of the outlaws bad been captured, including Mockton the outlaw chief. The rest had scattered and fled among the rocks into the hills. Three of the outlaws captured had been wounded in the fight. ‘* Now, boys, for the robbers’ cave,” cried Nat, and placing a strovg guard over the prisoners, they hastened in the direction of the thieves’ re- treat, led by Nat Barker. Arriving at the cavern, Nat gave the signal he had heard the robbers use, and he and his fol- lowers were admitted. Before the guards had time to discover the deception they were over- powered and bound hand and foot, Then they pressed on into the cave, and came suddenly upon Merto, the Robber Queen, busily engaged in packing a lot of valuables in a valise, ‘You are my prisoner,” cried Nat, advancing and laying his hand on the startled woman’s shoulder, An agonized cry escaped her, as she staggered back, clutching at the cavern wall for support, an ashy pallor overspreading her face. ‘* Maverick Mose!” her voice hoarse with emotion. ‘* Why have you followed and dogged me so long? Are you the devil? or why do you seek to destroy me?” ‘** So you would like to know that, would you?” Nat replied. ‘‘Tnen I shall be pleased to ac- commodate you!” As he spoke he quickly tore perish in the attempt,” Then the search commenced, Four hours they threaded their way through winding passages, marking their trail as they went, They had traveled, it seemed, many miles, when suddenl they caught the gleam of a light ahead, and ad- vanced cautiously, clutching their rifles in their hands. ; Then as they turned an angle in the rocky pass- age, they beheld astartling sight. Seated upon a pile of skins was an old man, while near him stood the hideous monster seen on the cliff by Nat and Frank a few nights before. There was a sharp “‘click-click” of guns and then came the clear voice of Nat Barker, ** Surrender or you die!” CHAPTER XVII. A JOYFUL SURPRISE—CONCLUSION, For one brief moment there was silence in the cavern. The old man started to his feet, with a look of - alarm. Then a voice came from the strange monster; ; “ Mark Conway ! Great Heavens!” Then the huge hairy coat that completely enveloped the figure was tbrown aside—the hideous cowl . dropped from the head, and— * Richard Hammond!” ejaculated Nat in joyful surprise. With the glad cry of ‘ father!” on his lips Frank Hammond burried forward and fath and son were clasped in each other’s arms. The cowboys who bad accompanied Nat and Frank stood speechless with astonishment, at the strange tableau. At that moment a female form glided swiftly into the light. Nat saw her ek sprung for- the false wig and whiskers from his head and / ward crying, “* Annie—my child! my child! face, revealing—not an old man ashe had ap- peared to be, but a man of not over forty-five —bandsome, vigorous and in the prime of life. “Mark Conway!” she gasped, staggering back and clutching at the rocks for support! “Yes, Mark Conway !” replied Nat, bitterly, dropping his awkward speech, used while in dis- guise—‘' not dead butalive! Yvur knife failed to accomplish its work, and I have come from the waters of the Pecos to bring you and your villainous brother to justice|” “That you sball never do!” she cried, and drawing a pistol from her bosom she placed it against her breast and pulled the trigger. There was a sharp report, and this Queen of Bandits sunk down upon the cavern floor, — The men quickly gathered around her and Nat Barker, as we sball continue to call him, lifted the prostrate woman and laid her on her bed of skins, But a glance told him that the shot had been fatal, and that the dethroned Queen had only a short time to live, **You see I have foiled you at last,” said the dying woman feebly. ‘‘ You have hunted me down, but I shall soon be beyond your reach—” 3 Where is my rant, ia poe What have you done with her?” deman Nat, in an pried as: voice, glan about the cavern. A gleam of triumph lit the Queen’s face, ‘*Gone!” she whispered esa “We sold her to the Apaches to buy their friendship, and she is doubtless the wife of some great chief, by this time!” and with a smile of fiendish satisfac- tion bee her face, the last spark of life went out, Merto, the Robber Queen, was dead! ‘*Oh, God! my child! my child!” moaned Nat, in deepest agony. At that moment Frank Hammond, who had a a — sth ee oe tragic scene, advanc- and grasped Nat by the arm, ““Come!—for Heaven’s sake come with me!” he entreated, bis voice husky with emotion. ‘‘ This isnot the womanI metin the cavern, There is some t mystery here, Let us hurry to the cave under the old house, Sbe is still there and we shall find her!” and he half dragged Nat down the passage. . ¢ Leaving a few mento take care of the dead and guard the prisoners, Nat and Frank, follow- sn by a half-dozen men, set out for the old Aztec And as they hurried up the rocky hill, Frank told Nat of the picture found in the strange wo- man’s locket, “Thank God! It is indeed my child—my child! and she is gtill alive!” cried Nat. Reaching the ruined building, they quickly procured torches from the resinous pines near by ang qucrodad into the cave, Thank God!” The strange girl uttered a glad cry and fell half fainting in ber father’s arms. We shall not attempt to describe the joy of the meeting of the parents and children, for the happiness irradiating their faces could only ex- press the deep joy of their hearts. When Frank had somewhat recovered from the joyful surprise of meeting his father, he turned about to behold the beautiful woman whom he had met in the cavern clasped in Nat Barker's arms. At that moment Nat turned to Frank, his whole face beaming with happiness, and said; “This is my daughter Annie. Annie, this is Mr. Hammond, the son of my former partner, Richard Hammond,” Mi-s Conway held out her hand, a deep blush mantling her rich olive ch ‘** We bave met before, I believe,” she said, her voice low and musi , “T shall never forget that fact,” responded Frank warmly, taking her hand in his own, ‘but I didn’t know—” ‘‘He told meof the meeting,” broke in her father, ‘and he thought you were the Robber ueen,’ “Tt was his fault,” declared Frank, pointin toNat. ‘‘He ins ous Merto, while I tried to convince bim of his mistake.” “Yes,” spoke up Richard Hammond, “ and she told me she bad met a member of the rob- ber band who had been hart by falling over the cliff, and begged me to not molest bim, as he did not seem to be wholly bad and might reform if he had a chance,” At this Miss Conway became greatly con- fused, while the two fathers broke into a hearty laugh, There, my son!” cried Frank’s father, ‘‘ there — is still some hope for your reformation,” . ‘* Well, I believe she is a robber, after all,” de- clared Nat, ‘‘ for she robbed Frank of his senses — completely, He was clean ‘ locoed’ as the Mexi- cans say, and I'll be hanged if he didn’t want to come back and see her, even after I had con- vinced him that she was the dreadful Robber Queen.” | ‘“‘ Which proves that my so defective as yours, after all,” retorted Frank, . while a deep blush stole over Miss Conway’s cheeks, : Ba “But, how in the name of Heaven is it that we find you here ther in this place?” ques- tioned Nat. ‘It all seems like a strange ro- mance,” r “Well, itis a strange story,” responded Mr. Hammond, “ but I'll not relate itnow, Itseems— equally strange that ere, for the report isted that you were the notori- — pene was not | ou are 4 hillea reached me months ~ ow, boys,” said Frank, ‘‘we don’t know | that you had been f what dan we may encounter, and we must be | ago. As soon as I heard the report I burried to ready for unt action, I believe that Miss | your ranch on the Pecos to find that every et . Conway is held a captive by some one who is in believed you to be lying at the bottom of the ff Ne , : yh A, aa: f Tia Cees Nt { > ie F ; ‘ics ae | a ue, v-\ Fe ahh adh ie hive y e's Vissi Sha tg RRSP IL Ata Sor ca UN ea es SPiN Lec) REPAIR on j is Sri at WENA A Mrubb Ad. Boe Ud: jist : Mi : ee a My
Page 16
16 river, while your daughter had been carried away by the murderers. et trace of the guilty parties, and brought a amous detective from the East, but he could gain no clew to their whereabouts,” “Tt is indeed almost a miracle that Iam now alive,” responded Nat. ‘‘It happened that an Indian was crossing the river when I was thrown into the water, and he rescued me from a watery grave, and took me to bis solitary hut in the hills where I lay for a month, bovering between life and death. When at last I recov- ered, I found that every one believed me dead, and at once made up my mind to make my ex- istence known to noone until I had found my daughter and brought my would-be assassins to justice. My mission is now accomplished, for they have both been captured, aud though one of them is beyond human retribution, the other shall be punished to the full extent of the law,” **Tt is all wonderful—wonderful,” responded Mr. Hammond, “ But, the hand of Providence has moved in our favor.” Then turning to the old man standing near him, he continued: “This is Mr, Payton, prospector and assayer, and it is to him that we owe much of our good fortune, as you'll all agree when I have told my story.” The old man advanced and was cordially greeted by Nat and Frank. The cowboys from the ranch were overjoyed to find Mr. Hammond safe and unharmed, and the strange events of the past few days were dis- cussed during the entire day. It was decided that the little party should re- main in the cavern until night, and then journey to Desert City, where the robbers could be turn- ed over to the proper authorities, Nearly the entire day was spent in mutual explanations, and discussing the startling events of the past. Miss Conway’s story was listened to with breathless interest. After being kidnapped by the villainous Burlock and his sister, she was taken to a lonely cabin in the Sierra Madre Mountains where she was kept as a prisover, for the pu + of compelling her to become the wife of Burlock. At last she was suddenly re- moved from there to a ranch house in Arizona, the owner of which was a villainous Mexican, who aided Buriock and his sister in holding her a captive. Then fearing discovery, as she sup- posed, her abductor removed her to the moun- tain cave at Urkos Pass. Here Burlock threatened to kill her if she did not consent to become his wife, and upon her re- fusal he grew desperate, and would have carried his threat into execution, doubtless, had not a gang of Apaches suddenly arrived in the neigh- rhood at that time and threatened to com- mence war upon the intruders. Then, in a fit of rage, partly from revenge upon the captive, and partly to satisfy the de- mands of the Apaches, Barlock agreed to turn over the prisoper to the savages, providing he and his men should not be molested in the future, This was agreed to, and Miss Conway was at once delivered into the hands of the merci- less Apaches. That night the savages made their camp near the old Aztec building on the hill, his happened on the very day that Richard Hammond was making bis journey through the hills on his way to Desert City. He had stopped at the old house; and finding it inhabited by the prospector, he concluded to pass the night in the place. About sundown they were startled by seeing a gang of Apaches approaching, and hastily retreated to the cavern below; but not untii they had made the discovery that a female captive was among the Indians, That night the two men succeeded in rescuing the prisoner, and tookeher to the cavern. Imagine ber.surprise to find that one of her rescuers’was an old friend andeformer partner of her father! The old assayer contemplating trouble with the red-skins, ha kept his store of provisions in the cavern, where a good supply of water ogi be found, ‘The assayer had a lot of chem- icals in his possession, which were used to make the strange lights seen, These were made for the purpose of prightenlog the superstitious sav- ages away. Mr. Hammond had constructed a suit out of black bearskin, to which he had fixed tbe head of a mountain lion, and with this hice- ous make-up, and by the aid of the skeleton they had found. in the cave, he succeeded in infusing terror into the bands of strolling Apaches, Through Annie the two men learned that a band of outlaws had their rendezvous in the neighborhood, and a sharp lookout was kept to prevent their invading the cavern. They possessed a couple of long-range rifles, and, with these, were able to shoot with I made every effort to | deadly effect at a great distance, and find- ing that the cavern so completely deadened the sound of their rifles as to render it almost imperceptible on the outside, they hit upon the plan of shooting from the interior of the eavern through the crevices overlooking the hidden valley. Thus it was that they were able to carry on asilent and deadly warfare with the outlaws and Indians. It was their inten- tion to leave the so with safety, but the hills were literally swarming with hostile Apaches, and they felt it safer to remain in their stronghold until the coast should be clear, When Annie had dis- covered Frank Hammond lying insensible at the foot of the cliff near the ontrance to the cave, she concluded at once that he was a member of the robbers’ gang, but, through pity, she had rendered him assistance, and permitted him to escape, well knowing that any one of the robbers would be in great danger should he be discovered by her protectors. That night the entire party set out for Desert City, but not until the body of the Robber Queen had been consigned to its last resting- place ina grave at tbe mouth of the bandits’ cave, The appearance of the party with the captive outlaws created a profound sensation in Desert City. The traitorous city marsbal was at once arrested, and subsequently convicted with his associates, who were all sentenced to long terms in the State’s Prison. And thus it was that one of the most Ccanger- | ? ous and powerful bands of bandits that ever in- | 5 fested the Territory, was completely broken up, | 5 | Little remains to be told. ° ' Mark Conway, alias Nat Barker, removed to Arizona and purchased a ranch adjoining that | ?- of Hatnmond, Frank Hammond and Annie Conway are mar- ried, and the great Hammond Ranch is now | 57 owned by Richard Hammond & Son. Mark Conway lives a peaceful life, surrounded by his grazing herds, but he will never forget the startling events of his career when he was known as MAVERICK MOSsE, THE ARIZONA DE- TECTIVE, THE END. Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela. Dick, the Prince of the Road. Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. Dick in Disguise; or, Buffal, Ben Dick in His Caatle. Dick’s Bonanza; o , The wantom Miner. Dick in Danger; or, Omana Ol, Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards ot Flood Bar, Dick on Deck ¢ or, Calamity ¢ ne, the Heroine, Dick’s Last Acts or, Corduroy Coarlie. Dick in Leadville. Diek’« Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. Dick as Detective. Dick’s Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Bill. Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold, Diek of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party, Dick’s Dreamy; or, The Rivals of the Road, Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Adventure, Dick’s Dead Deal. Dick’s Death-Plant. Dick. A Rowance of Roughs and Toughs, Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. Dick’s Death Trail Dick’s Deals or, The Gold Brick of Oregon, Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats, Dick’s Ducats; or, Days in the Digginga, sak pena eed Diak Bantenceds or, The Terrible Vendetta 62 Deadwoo ck’s Claim. 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonds. 421 Deadwood Bick in New ¥ orks or, A “ Cute Care,” 480 Boageced ene pant ¢ or, The Chained Hand. 445 Deadwo ek, Jr. 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Defiance. 458 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Full Hand, 459 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Bie Round-Up. 465 Deadwood dr.’s, Racket at Claim 10, 471 Deadwood Jr.’«, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. 476 Deadwood Jr.'s, Dog Detective. 451 Deadwood Jr., in Deady ood, 491 Deadwood Jr.«, Compact. 496 Deadwood eel enee. 600 Deadwooa ngs. 5608 Deadwood x De Werance, 515 Deadwood , dros, Protegee. 522 Deadwood dra, Three. 529 Deadwood Dick, dr. ’ms Danger Ducka, See Mendwoed Dick; Irs. in Texan adwoo ck, dre, in Texas, 5 rt + pa Bick, ores the sat se or be endwoo Jick, Jr., on « Mettle. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jdr., in Gotham, 561 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boston, 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadeiphia, 572 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Chicago, 578 Deadwood Dick. Jr., Afloat. 584 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Denver, 590 Deadwood Dick. Jr.’s, Decree. 595 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin, 600 Deadwood Dick, dr., at Coney Island, eed Besazeng Bice $e", rgcartte ba e wo CK, ” etro V4 ene fay eae peers | Bes ” Qineln nati, 4 Deadwo ck, dr., in Nevada. 680 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in No Man’s Land, 1 Deadwood 20 Deadwood 28 Deadwood 85 Deadwood 42 Deadwood 49 Deadwood 57 Deadwood 78 Deadwood 77 Deadwood 100 Deadwood 104 Deadwood 109 Deadwood 129 Dendwood 188 Deadwood 149 Deadwood 166 Deadwood 195 Deadwood 201 Deadwood 205 Dendwood 217 Deadwood 221 Deadwood 232 Goid-Dust 268 Deadwood 265 Deadwood 809 Deadwood B21 Deadwood 847 Deadwood lace as soon as they could do | Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective. eee BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, The Flying Yankee; or, The Ocean Outcast. Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccancer; or, The Fugitive Yacht, The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants. The Boy DPnellat; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wolf, Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Stiuggier. The Sea-Devil; or, The M The Hussar Captain ; « or, Bessie, th idahipman’s Legacy. Nhe Hermit of Hell Gate. stock-Tender’s Daughter, 04 Gold Plume} or, Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider. 1 Bison BILL, the Prince of the Reins; or, Butfalo Bill’s Pluck Grit, the Bravo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer, Crimson Kate; or, The Cowboy's Triumph. 7? Lene Star, the Cowboy Captain. & Merle, the Middy ; or, The Freelance Heir. The Midshipman Mutineer; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer, The Floating F eather; or, Merle Monte’s Treasure, The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned. Merle Monte’s Crulfse; or, * The Gold Ship” Chase, Merle Monte’s Fate; or, Pearl, the Pirate's Bride, The Sé¢a Marauder; or, Merle Monte’s Pledge. @ Billy Bine-Eyes, the Boy Rover of the Rio Grande. $04 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 Traf), Bonodel, the Buy Rover; or, The Flagless Schooner, The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island, = Warpath WII, the Boy Phantom. Seawalf, the Boy Lieutenant. Isodor, the Young Consptrator?: or, The Fata! Leagues ? The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta. The Wild YVachtaman; or, The War-Cloua’s Cruise, Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. A Cabin Boy's Luck; or, Tie Corsair. The;S8ea Raider, The Ocean Firefly; or, A Middy’s Vengeance. Haphazard Harry ; or, Tne Scapegrace of the Sea. Wizard Will: or, Tie Boy Ferret of New York, Wizard Will's Street Scouta. The Born Guide; or, The Saiior Boy Wanderer. Neptune Ned, the Boy Coaster. Flora; or, Wizard Will's Vagabond Pard. Ferrets Afloat; or, Wizard Will's Last Case. Nevada Ned, the Revolver Kanger. 5 Arizona Joe the Boy Pard of Texas Jack. Buck Taylor, King ot the Cowboys. The Royal Middy 3 or, The Shark and the Sea Cat The Hunted Midablpunan. The Outlawed Middy. Buckskin Bill, the Comanche Shadow, Brothers tn Buckskin. The Buckskin Bowers. The Buc skin Rovers. Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder of the Rio, & Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. Lalitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. 55 The Creole Corsair. Pawnee BIUll, the Prairie Shadower. 5 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. Camille, the Card Queen. The Surgeon-Scout Detective. : The @uteast Cadet; or, The False Detective. The Buckskin Avenger. Delmonte, the Young Sea Rover. 7 The Young Texan Detective. The Vagabond of the Mines. The Rover Detective; or, Keno Kits Cham; Ralph, the Dead-Shot Seout; or, The Rio Ra The Hereules Highwaymuan., Butterfly Billy, the Pony Kider Detective; « Bill’s Boy Para. Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt, Buttertly Billy’s Bonanza. The Buccaneer Midshipman. The Wizard Sailor; or, Red Ralph, thé Rover. The Sea Shadower or, The Freebeoter’s Lega Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag; or, The Tarnished > The Rival Sharps; or, Redfern, the Secret Ser The Scarlet Sombrero: or, The Sharp from * Blue Jacket Bill; or, The Red Hat Rangers Red } The Red Sombrero Rangers; or, Redfern’ } BY J, C. COWDRICK, Rilver-Mask, the Man*of Mystery. Shasta, the Gold ling} or, For Seven Years D 420 The Petective’« Apprentice; or, A Boy Witho 424 Cibuta Jonny or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout. 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude. 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo, 606 Redlicht Ralph the Prince of the Road, 514 Broadway Billy’s Boodle, 524 The Engineer Detective. & Broadway Billy’s ‘ Piffikilty.” Mart, the Nicht Express Detective, Broadway Billy’s Peath Racket. Air-Line Luke the Young Engineer, The Chimney Spy; or, Broadway Billy’s Sur The Boy Pinkerton, William © Broadway; or, The Boy Detective’s Fighting Marry the Chief of Chained Cycle Broadway Billy’s Dead Act. Barebsrek Beth, the Centaur of the Circle, Typevwtiter Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward. 9 Moonlight Morgan, the * Pizenest’”? Man of A Broadway Billy Abroad. Broadway Billy’s Best; or, Beating San Franc) Broadway Billy In Clover. Broadway Billy in Texas. Broadway Billy’« Brand. Z1il Broadway Billy at Santa Fe. LATEST AND NEW ISSU)° Carl, the Mad Cowboy; or, fhe Lariat Que: Prentiss Ingraham, Old Misery, the Man from Missourl; or, The My Mountain League. By Wm. G. Patten Wide Awake Len, the Quaker City Perret; or Cormorants. By T. C, Harbangh Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hunt; or, The Second Round in San Francisco. By Edward L. Wheeler, Moaquite Jack, the Hustler Gamin; or, Move-on Mike's Grand Catch, By Jo Pierce. Light-Heart Lute’«s Last Trail; or, The Gold Crater’s Secret. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. Pawnee Bill’s Pledge; or, The Cowboy Kidnapper. © By Col, Prentisa Ingraham. Broadway Billy’s Full Hand; or, The Gamin Detee- tive’s Double Snap at Santa Fe, By '. C. Cowdrick, %21 Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective; or, The Wizard of Urkos Puss. By Wil Lisenbee. 722 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dominoes: or, The Rival Camps of the Northern Border. By Edward L. Wheeler, 728 Silverblade, the Shoshone; or, The Border Beagle’s Secret Mission. By Jos, E. Badger, Jr, 724 Violet Vane’s Vengeance; or, The Wipe-Out at White ater, By William G. Patten. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half- Dime Library !s for ste 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 York, 718 714 715 716 717 718 719 720