Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 765) (1892 03 22)
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
WW mM DW a Fre an Entered as Second Class Matter at the New York, N. Y., Post Office. < Bd RE A Se (th! at Tat a Dl i i! tl Copyrighted 1892, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, March 22, 1892. $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE Price, 5 Cents. AND ADAMS. Vol. XXX. No. 765. i whan. | Im IAT il WWII HA Hi Y) } f If WW) ** ROGER,” AND HE POINTED TO THE INSCRIPTION, \ AN NN OBSERVED FLIPPER FLYNN, ‘“‘IT GIVES YOU JUST TEN DAYS MORE TO LIVE!” IH} } Hh i im \ \ \ hg OR, Knocking Out the Kidnappers. BY JO PIERUE, AUYHOR OF ‘‘ TOM THISTLE,” ‘“‘ SPICY JIM,” ‘¢ DENNIS DUFF,” ‘‘ BOB 0’ THE BOWERY,” ETC., ETC. CHAPTER I, HIS DOOM FORETOLD. w’ot’s the racket there? A man Old chap, you ** HELLO! bein’ dove up, sure as you live, want a finger in that pie!” It migbt be an attempt at murder, or only a street brawl], but, in any case, the speaker was interested. He had just turned the corner of a block, end saw a carrisge in a side street with several men engaged in a fight near it, He was
Page 2
ne Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. ee ‘ young enough to be drawn toward such a scene, and away he went. Before he reached the spot the fight was all over. There was a general dive for the carriage, and away it whirled with all the men inside ex- cept one. He had been flung down on the side- walk, or knocked down; and there he lay, floun- dering about wildly. The new-comer, who, plainly, had been the cause of the abrupt ending of the affair, was tempted to sound the alarm, but he was not sure the affair was serious enough to warrant it. Just as be came up the man gained a sitting position, ‘¢ Hullo! mister,” cheerfully saluted the res- cuer, ** how goes it?” He was rewarded only with a glaace, “« Fell among thieves, ain’t you?” This time the man made reply: ““T bave, indeed,” ‘* Honest?” ** Don’t you see what the situation is?’ impa- tiently asked the unknown, witb an increase of attention. ‘*T kin see enough ter be sure it ain’t pleasant fer you, mister,” was the candid reply, ‘‘ but that ain’t a bill o’ perticulars. I’m after a diagraw which shall give all that anybody else knows, an’ more, too, Isee you git knocked around in a way which must ’a’ bruised yer ride an’ yer anatomy, but further than that, Soroneatt sayeth not,” During this address the stranger had reached out his hand, inviting bis companion’s aid, and with it had gained an erect position. He stood somewhat dizzily, but did not seem to be seri- ously injured, It was to be seen that he was well clad, and had the outward aspect of a gentleman, Furthermore, there was that about him which indicated English birth and blood, “T still live,” he decided, after trying his limbs, * Sure!” ** Only for your timely arrival I might not be able to say that,” “* Were they out fer yer life?” ** You saw how they hit me.” ‘Certain; but wot I’m tryin’ ter git at is, was their object ter rob or ter kill ye?” *T am robbed, doubtless, Further than that—” Y The speaker paused and did not add what the additional facts were, To a certain degree he took his misfortunes calmly, for be was not ex- cited to a violent degree, but it was clear he was hit hard by the calamity. He hesitated and meditated, and then aroused. He looked keenly at his companion, and saw a boy of some sixteen years. He was not of aris- tucratic or dignified appearunce, but he had a face,which was at once bright and good-humored., This was a recommendation in itself, and the man came to business, ‘You must have seen a part of my trouble,” he added, “T think I observed that I did. You was skirmishing like Sitting Bull Injuus when I come onter the scene, but it struck me you was not gettin’ your share of the fun.” **Boy, would you know any of those persons again?” ** Don’t think Ishould. They got out o’ sight like a free lunch with a tramp wooin’ of it.” ** You were unable to impress their faces on your memory?” ** Jes’ so,” The stranger indulged in meditation again, and his total disregard for his bruises was the best evidence of the importance of the affair in which he had played such a passive, yet active part, After awhile he directed his gaze toward the waiting boy once more.» ‘“* What is your name?” he asked, “ Blipper Flynn.” “ Eh?” ‘* Mister, I see you are a pilgrim in this glori- ous land o’ freedom, so I may as well go into pertick’lers, I s’pose I hev some other handle than that I whispered, but it ain’t in active use, Flipper Flynn is the name I sail under, an’ it ain’t uncommon ia these parts. Half o’the men an’ kids in New York are fixed out on the plan; it’s Uncle Sam’s style, an’ better than imitatin’ other folks. See?” ‘* T will bumor your fancy, for it is not a mat- ter that interests me especially. You have dis- covered that Iam not an American, Well and good; it isa fact that ’'m an Englishman, I am in your country on a most sacred errand, Itis to find a brother of mine who, I fear, bas met with foul play. He came bere some time ago but all word from bim bas ceased. Just why i think he has met with trouble I need not now explain, but I came here to look him up, and ee — eee —————— et him out of whatever difficulty he was in. eyond doubt I have chanced upon his enemies, but you have seen the result—instead of helping him, I have myself been nearly made a victim.” ““Oh! when our genooine Uncle Sam crook gets down to biz, he’s a hustler,” agreed Flipper, with dignity. ‘* You don’t sympathize with him?” ‘*Me? Bless you, no!” ‘* Very well. Now, I am so nearly a stranger here that I see the need of having a guide and helper. For such a person I am willing to pay a good round sum, Doyou want the job?” Flipper Flynn was by this time interested in the affair, and he did not let the chance slip to get further into the secret. He replied with some dignity that he was not accustomed to work for aliving, but was always ready to doa gentleman a good turn. Hence, he was not averse to helping his new acquaintance, “if it could be done without too much injury to his personal business,” The stravger had used good judgment in siz- ing the boy up, and, believing he had found just the helper he needed, he brightened perceptibly and grew confidential, ** My name is Roger Hethington,” he went on, “and 1 am from an excellent family on the other side. As before intimated, I am on here to find my brother. He came on some time ago, and I received word from unknown parties that he was held for ransom. Of course I hastened to his aid, and now I’m trying to accomplish my work in the face of many difficulties, For some reason the crooks fail to let me meet them, and I am working at a disadvantage, This morning I received word from a woman, or some one claiming to be such, that, if I would meet her, I could learn of Lionel—that’s my brother, I did meet her according to contract, but it was not a square deal; as vou have seen, I met more than l anticipated, She had a gang of ruffians with ber, and I was used in a way not to my liking.” **T don’t blame ye fer objecting ter sech a deal. It was tough on yer anotomy,” the boy agreed, readily, ‘‘Soit was them you run up ag’in’, ‘was it?” “T think so, but I’m not sure, They did not say so, but after a little roundabout talk on her part, the men put in an appearance and evident- ly tried to maim or kill me,” ‘* What’s yer next move?” * Just what I want to know, vice.” ‘*Git a detective,” **T am reluctant to take suc’a a purely selfish person into my confidence,” objected Heathing- ton. ‘If this thing can be done quietly, it would satisfy me a good deal better.” I want your ad- Flipper Flynn did not gain confidence in his. companion’s judgment, but it was Roger’s affair, not his# and he was not disposed toargue against a scheme which would put money jinto bis pocket, instead of a/detective’s, He kept this in mind and replied: ‘* Mebbe we kin develop man-buntin’ ability that would puta reg’lar ter the blush, I am quite a looker-around, myself. I should hev mentioned that my full name is Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. You see, I make it a prac- tice ter pop up when there’s fun or fightin’; not that I do any scrappin’—fer it ain’t in my line.” ** Come to my room, and Jet us talk this over.” ** Heave ahead, an’ I’ll be in at the finish.” The Street Patrol was growing interested in this matter, He had heard of young English- men being made victims of by New World sharpers before, and as there generally was a history back of the attack, there was reason to suspect it would not be time lost to keep Heth- ington company in his investigation, True, be was not warmly impressed in his favor, but be was worth cultivating. It was not a long journey to his room, and they were soon inside, Roger’s good clothes had led Flipper Flynn to expect a house and room in keeping therewith, but in this he was disappointed, The quarters did not rise above the medium grade, and indicated lack of money or a modest taste. Hethington looked around and exclaimed: ** Hello! what’s this?” He was lovking at a package which stood ina corner, ‘* Guess you’ve got a Christmas present,” the Patrol suggested, **T don’t know why I should have any such thing come. I will look into it at ouce.” The package was wrapped iv an ordinary brown paper, thick and heavy, and did not ap- pear to be of much so'idity, but when Roger lifted it, be fonnd that the contrary state of affairs ex- isted, There was substance there, and he won- dered more thanever, The Patrol hada faculty for getting interested in things, and he gave his ~ aid to unwrap the contents. It proved to be still a mystery, and he swung it up on end and leaned it against the wall near the window. ‘*Merciful heavens!” gasped Hethington, ** What is this?” He recoiled as if he had received a blow, and then remained staring at the object in startled amazement, ‘“* Well, that’s a corker!” added the Patrol, half-unconsciously. The comment seemed well made, The thing was a gravestone, and on the side was this ivscription: “ROGER HETHINGTON, Drep In New YorE, August 10, A. D. 1889.” Surely, it wasa ghastly gift to receive, and Roger found no words ready in which to express his opinion, He had met the assault on tbe street like a man of nerve, but he had too much at stake to look with composure on such a gift as this, ** Roger,” observed Flipper Flynn, ‘it gives you just ten days more to live!” and he pointed to the inscription, ‘*T see,” mechanically replied the recipient, “Tt ain’t a joke?” ‘© Unfortunately, no,” “‘Then you want ter look a little out, by hickey !” ** Unless we can beat them out, I am a doomed man!” Roger cried. CBRAPTER II, THE PRISONER OF THE DEN, ‘*'You bustle around and get that work done, or I'll take a club to ye, lazy-bones!” It was not the most encouraging way to be asked for service, but Betty Gray was used toit. Betty did not fill a very aristocratic nicbe in life, and many would have said she was not of much account, but she bad to work hard, and who, thus occupied, is a trivial factor? It is the workers in the hive that get the honey. Betty proceeded to “hustle,” according to orders, This meant she must sweep and dust with all the vigor of her young arms, and :)e never shirked matters, Sbe went up to the top floor and entered a square room, It had ona tenant, a man of about twenty-five years, He sat in a big chair, with a dressing-gown thrown around him, Betty’s entrance brought a more cheerful look to a face which, while prepossess- ing in many ways, had been dull the moment before—aJmost indicative of a weak mind, ‘**So you’ve come, Sunshine?” he spoke, quick- ly. “I’m here, sir,” Betty admitted, practically. ‘** And you bring sunshine, Betty, I have been rage to see you. I want to know who I au / ‘* Dear me, sir, I can’t tell you,” “*T am aware of that, You never saw me un- til of late, and it isn’t to be expected you would know about me; but I want to see if we can’t find out between us, Now, here I am, a wreck on the sea of life; a mariner without a compass, as I may say. Whoam I? Where doI belong? How did I lose my mental balance, and become such a wreck as you see me? You can’t tell me this, eh?” «No, sir.” ‘*Never heard any of the angels who run this ranch tell my story?” ** No, sir.” ** What do they call me?” ‘* Tsaac Moss, sir,” = _ “Humpb! Pretty name to call a man by, isn’tit? It’s just as likely to be mine as Jacob Gress is, It won't go down, Now the fact that they have a name all ready to fit to me, like a Bowery clothing-dealer with a supply of coats, looks bad tome, If they professed total ignorance I should not suspect them; but this Isaac Moss business don’t impress me favorably, Eb, Betty?” “Yes, sir,” agreed Betty, with her usual docility. . : The young man meditated. As his words indicated, he was one who had the power of being cheerful under disadvantageous circur - stances. Except for that he would never have talked so lightly to Betty, for he fully realized that he was in a bad fix; but he kept his cour- age and hoped for better things. : Betty paused in her sweeping to look pityingly at him and ask: : ; ‘*Can I do anything for you, sir?” “Tf I had been able to answer that question — to the point as many times as you have asked
Page 3
Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. 3 it, we should be out of the woods, now. Un- fortunately, I have always been obliged to re- ply in the negative, What can we do, when we don’t know whether I am Isaac Moss or John Smith?” “*T don’t think that’s your name,” ‘* Candidly, I don’t, either, Let me look back: I came out of a severe illness, and found my- self here. Oddly enough, [ could remember nothing as to my past. I did not recognize any ove around me; all were strangers as far as I could tell, though the fact that I could remember nothing whatever of the past would have made it possible that I might have faced my own brother and not known him.” ‘* Did you ever have a brother?” Just what [ wish I knew. Did I? That’s the question, Did I ever have anybody but myself?” ** You must have, sir,” Isaac Moss laughed. Betty and her serious, ractical way of taking matters, always amused im. ** Agreed! Well, as I was saying, I failed to get any light from my companions, here, They told me I had come here, given the name of Isaac Moss, remained two weeks, paying my board like a good fellow; and then fallen desperately sick of sometbiug—l never have been able to find out what. When I got on my feet IT was absolutely no good. I was sick in body, and my head was even worse off, My past was gone; utterly gone, That, as far as 1 knuw the gentleman, is the history of Isaac Moss,” The speaker smiled, but Betty did not. She had an idea that this lightness of spirit on his part, which she had seen before, indicated a state of mental aberration, and saw no joke in it, She shouldered her broom. ** I’m done, sir.” “Oh; are you? Happy Betty!—you live in the domain of your broom, and, doubtless, have no ambition or thought beyond that department of life’s battle-field.” ‘*T ain’t half so much of a clod as ycu take me to be!” Betty retorted, resentfully. ‘*A clod? Bless me, I never thought of con- sidering you one, I beg your pardon, my girl; you are afriend whom I prize highly, and who has been very kind to me, You are a trump card, Betty. I hope 1 haven’t offended you?” ‘Oh! no, sir; I know you are my friend,” ‘¢That’s it exactly. And now, Betty, won’t you oblige me by looking into my affairs a little, and seeing if you can get any pointers out of the dragons who run this shop? The idea is strong in my mind that they know more about me than they let on. Can’t you pump them on the dead quiet, and see if they are really fooling me?” “* ll do my best, sir.” *“*Good, my yzirl! You and I will hang to- gether, whatever comes, If Lproveto bea prince in disguise I’]l remember you handsomely. Get all the information you can, and you and I will divvy\ at the wind-up. How is that?” Betty was good-hearted, and she really liked Isaac Moss, so she was not backward in agree- ing to the proposal, She did not expect to learn that Isaxc was a prince in disguise, but she was quite willing to help any one who was in need, She promised in due form, and the young man did not suspect how much of a load she wi's tak- ing upon ber, young shoulders, She went out, and proceeded down-stairs. On the lower floor sbe met Mrs, Jacobs, who was the reputed bead of the house, and a person of some peculiarities, Now, Betty was not considered a brilliant star in the intellectual firmament, but, like many another person, she was underrated, She was capable of more than she was credited with, and she was about to make an assault on Mrs, Jacobs’s secrets when all ber plans were changed by a ring at the door, She was curtly told to answer the bell, and proceeded to do so. A flashy-looking man was standing there, and he inquired for the landlady. Mrs. Jacobs was near, and she took the mat- ter out of Betty’s hands with singular haste, She hastened to take charge of the caller, too, and conducted him to the parlor without de- lay. Betty looked wise, “T wonder why it is he comes here so often since Isaac has been with us?” With this mental question, she first looked sharply at the parlor, and then moved to the door, Mrs, Jacobs would have been amazed had she seen her scrub-girl deliberately act the listener, It was new work for Betty, but she soon de- cided she was to be rewarded, There was con- versation within’ she became a listener. “How is be getting on?’ asked a masculine voice, ‘ No change,” Mrs, Jacobs replied, ** As fcolish as ever, eb?” ‘** He does not get the past back, nor have any gleams of reason, At all times he is perfectly docile, This makes it very easy for us,” “Yes; but does not speak well for the future, if we sbould want him to grasp that lost past. If he bas degenerated into a complete wreck, we have done our work too well,” “Oh! I think he will come around all right. The drug was warranted to us, and ought not to fail.’ **Ought not, does not go. If we have made the man an idiot, he will never be of any use to us; that’s all. He ought to begin to pull himself together, if he’s going to at all,” “ That’s a fact,” ‘* How often do you see him?” **T go up every day.” ‘* Who else?” ‘* Abe, my husband; and the girl,” “ve noticed her, So you allow her to be around him?” ‘* Why, of course, Don’t look so surprised; Betty ain’t capable of doiug any harm if she was paid forit. The girl is a dunce, or next door to a know-nothing.” Listeners hear no good of themselves, it is said. It was so in this case, as Betty fully realized. She was not a revengeful person, but her eyes flashed at these uncomplimentary remarks, ‘* We'll see about that!” she muttered, **1’'m beginning to get uneasy about this mat- ter,” confessed tae visitor. ‘* You will remem- ber I was never satisfied with your ranch, bere, as a refuge. Now, bow about your other place?” ** That’s all right.” ‘**T am of the opinion it is safer than this, I wish you would speak to Abe, and see what he thinks about moving Moss to said house,” ** Abe is away, just pow; but what of it? Iam boss here, and don’t you forget it. Jf you want any change, I am the one to talk to.” “All right,” returned the man, laughing, ‘*T had as soon dea} with you as any one else. Shall we change the prisoner to-night? Once we get him to the other den, be may as well bid good-by to the world until we see fit to let up on him. ‘** Perhaps it is safer, and if you say the word, off he goes, If we move late at night we shall be safe enough,” ‘* Enough, then, We will carry out the plan, I'll have a carriage here in due time, and all can be done on the dead quiet.” Betty listened further, but heard nothing which gave ber light as to the mystery of Isaac Moss’s life. He was the prisoner of the people of the house; that was all Betty knew, or could make out, When a stir in the room indicated that the caller was going, the girl retreated to a safe distance, “*So I don’t know nothing?” she muttered, resentfully. ‘*‘My lady, I have known folks to make a big mistake; perbaps you bave made one, now, The ‘know-nothing’ may prove danger- ous, after all.” Betty was wronging herself by giving these words a thought, She bad more of intelligenco and quick wit than even her best friend, Isaac Moss, suspected; but these qualities never had been given a chance to assert themselves, Early left an orphan, she had been a veritable slave all her life. She bad scrubbed for Mrs, Jacobs, and never had the shadow of a reward; and long-continued abuse and neglect bad naturally made their mark, Now, light was dawning upon her. “ll go to Isaac,” she declared; ‘“‘and if be can yet strength ter stand, we'll see who comes out abead!” CHAPTER Iil. EVIDENCE IN RED. FLIPPER Fiynn shook his finger at Roger Hethington. ‘* Now, don’t you get cast down,” the Street Patrol advised, ‘‘ What ef you bavo got a no- tice ter quit this earthly sp’ere ten days hence? You ain’t obliged to do it, be ye? Ef you heva tenement in New York, you’ve got to live up ter laws 0’ the State you hang out in; but you can’t be'dispossessed from the world jest cause you hev made yerself obnoxious ter some critters. Brace up, Roger! I wouldn’t die, ef ’s you. Nary time!” This advice had due effect, ‘“‘T am not a coward,” the Englishman replied; ‘but that thing don’t jook pleasant.” He pointed to the gravestone, ‘Right you are, my friend. Secha gift isa corker, I will admit, but you are still in it,” ‘*T am,” Hethington declared, “The thing came so suddenly, 1 wasupset, Now, 1 amcalm, again. Let us look into the matter.” They went forward to the gravestone, The inscription, which gave Roger just ten days to live, was well and neatly done. It spoke of the event as One already past, yet the date was one of the future; but be had the novel experience of standing there and reading the record of his alloted fate, If the plans of his enemies went not awry, he was not long of the earth. A grim-appearing thing was the stone to him, but the Patrol pro- ceeded to look at it critically. ‘Kind of a cheap concern fer a serious subject. This ain’t no royal marble, but jest a fake on the article. Itis made out of white oiled-cloth, or something o’ that sort. See?” The statement was correct. The cloth was stretched over a frame of wood, and was a ‘“‘cheap concern,” but this did not change the main facts of the case, It was there, and the warning was just as plain as if put on more pretentious a surface, and engraven instead of painted, ** Can you advise anything?” asked Roger, ‘*T kin; and the first thing is ter find out how this vallerable gift come ter you.” ‘“Trne! Dll attend to it at once, Remain here, and [ will go down and see the landlady.” He went, and the Patrol killed time as well as possible while he was gone. When he returned he shcok his head seriously. “No use. The thing was brought by an ex- pressman, but they tell me there is no clew to his identity.” ‘* Then we are out, there, in mind?” ‘‘T rely upon you for that.” ‘“* Mister, I am a genooine Uncle Sam youth, and that means i ama yard or more wide, an cut bias; but I ain’t infallible. I don’t claim ter be. You ain’t told me enough about yer case ter put me fully on.” ‘“-You shall know all. My brother, Lionel, came to America to see the country. All word from him ceased, but when I wrote for informa- tion, an answer came from unknown parties, They boldly announced that be was a prisoner with them, and held for ransom, I came over, but failed to get tidings from the crooks, as they bad promised. Then came word from a woman that, if I would meet her, I should have the news I desired. I came; you have seen the result,” ‘* Didn’t she let on anything?” “ No.” The Englishman answered promptly, but Flip- per Flynn’s growing doubts were not lessened. He did not feel sure he was getting all the facts in the case, If anything was being kept back, it was not a desirable job to be assistant to Roger. “From a word the woman let drop, I bave an idea we migbt with profit go to a bouse known as the Cozy Cove,” added the Englishman, after a pause, ‘* Will you accompany me?” ‘**T reckon I will; though it’s a resort not as safe asa church,” For one so unsophisticated, Roger did not sbow much zeal to learn what the Patrol could tell of the Cczy Cove. He asked nv questions, but prepared to go. They went out, and were soon at the door of the establishment so alluring- ly named, It was simply, as far as could be seen, a kotel of the run-down, seedy order. Flipper Flynn knew it of old. He could not say it had a doubt- ful reputation, but it was the resort of sporting- men, and he had seen those pass its doors who were not unlike sbarpers and crooks in appear- ance, Hethington entered without hesitation. Once in the main room, however, he began to show some doubt, Helooked around carefully, noting all who were present. The Patrol awaited the result without anxiety. If he was to be a in the dark, bis new ac- guaintance could play his cards to suit bim- self. One of those present seemed to inter- est Roger, and he finally walked over to bim and spoke in_a low voice. Now, Flipper was sure he was not wanted in this conversation, but he labored under the im- pression that, if he was to be assistant to any one, it was his privilege to know what was go- ing on. He did not hesitate to getinear enough to over- hear the talk, “ Friend,” began Hethington, “‘ were not you present when I was in here before?” ““T remember seeing you,” the stranger ad- mitted. What else have you .
Page 4
**Do you remember who was with me?” “Mr, Dunning, wasn’t it?” ** Was that bis name?” asked Roger, eagerly. ** He is a gentleman with a strikingly red mus- tache, and hair scarcely less bigh-colored.” “The very same, Now, can you tell me where I would be likely to find him?” ‘** Beyond doubt, over at the billiard-room; or up in bis room.” ** So be rooms here?” “ac Yes,” Thanking this timely informant, the English- man turned away. He was evidently bound to see Dunning at once, and Flipper, who bad come to the conclusion to have no more to do with the affair, changed his mind and decided to take in one more act in the drama. The billiard-room wasat thorear of the hotel, and to that place Roger went at once. ‘You're a wily rat, mister,” soliloquized the Patrol, ‘ but don’t you get the notion inter yer head that you kin hev me fer a helper, and keep me in the dark. It might Coin some cases, but you are rubbin’ eibows with crooks, aow. They ain’t the = 404 o’ men it is safe to monkey with, If you an’ I run in pairs, I come inter the whole lay-out.” Unconscious of the rebellion in his own camp, Hethington proceeded to business, The man be wanted was not in the billiard- room, but on inquiring for Mr. Dunning, he was carelessly informed by the man in charge of the tables that Dunning’s room was to be reached by going up the back stairs, ‘Number 23,” he added, Roger turned to Flipper. ** Wait for me here,” he directed, ** Mister, you want ter look a little out.” **T know; it’s all right.” Answering impatiently, he hastened up the stairs, “Don’t know whether it’s all right or not,’ mused the Patrol. ‘‘ You are runnin’ this cir- cus, but the show may be w’ot you don’t look fer.” Believing that he, at least, could affcrd to be philosophical in the matter, the speaker sat down and proceeded to wait for Roger. Time passed and he did not come, Finally, each min- ute brought the growing impression that the matter was becoming suspicious, The Patrol might bave been forgotten or thrown over, but the Englishman had seemed very much pleased to get him as a recruit. editating on the point, Flipver euded by making a bee-line for Number 23, No one ob- jected, or, indeed, seemed to notice his move- ments, The door was one of several which opened off from the ball. The Patrol knocked, There was no answer, “Come ont o’ that!” Flipper muttered, ** You've got ter show vt He thumped briskly this time, but no answer was returied. His meas: | was equal to the requirements of the case, He opened the door, He saw a comfortable apartment, and that was all; no one was visible, ‘Well, now, that’s odd! Kin Roger hev give me the dump? Don’t think it, by gum.” For several moments he stood and looked in silence, The empty room would not have im- pressed him so forcibly had not he been in just ths mood to doubt; he had started in on sus- picions before the disappearance was known. Hesitating for a while, he entered the room, * Bad biz fertyou, old chap, ef you'git ketched. Nobody would believe you was a square gent, ef you got dropped on in this,” The thougbt was enough to make him draw ‘back, but as he did so something not before seen caught bis attention. It caused him to start back abruptly. ** Great guns!” he exclaimed, For on the white spread of the bed he bad seen a strange red stain. He touched his finger to it, ‘* Blood |” He whispered the word in a busky manner, Blood!—and fresh and wet! The discovery up- set his usual coolness, When he took his gaze from the spot it was to look around with appre- hension, Perhaps danger menaced him, too, Did this stain point to missing Roger? CHAPTER IV. MYSTERY IN ANOTHER ROOM, FiLrper FLYNN recovered his nerve some- sy t. He looked around the room for some sign of a struggle. None was to be seen, All was as much to rights as if the chambermaid had just finished putting the place in order. ‘ Ef tragedy’s the -ommented, been done, it was a neat stroke,” For a moment he was inclined to doubt his own opinions, but one does not like to abandona theory. He became more settled in his belief. ‘* Roger bas got it in the neck, sure. Yes; an’ I’m hkely ter bring up the same way, ef I don’t geta move on, I'll move!” Deciding thus he left the room, but was not in time to avoid the encounter he feared. At the door he met an old gentleman. Now, Flipper was too shrewd to act the skulker, and be held his bead well up as be tried to pass on in silence. This he was notable todo, The old gentleman ape squarely in front of him, *“*Ts Mr, Duuning in?” he asked, obs The place is keepin’ itself, jest now. All out,” ‘*T wanted to see him,” So did Flipper, but he was willing to defer re- vealing the fact, He intended tosay farewell to the vicinity without delay, but just then tho door of the next room opened, A lady’s dress was briefly seen, but she retreated abruptly on catching sight of others, The man exhibited surprise, and directed: ‘* Wait a bit, my young friend; I may want to see you further,” He opened the door, himself, and the Patrol decided to delay. He bad seen an invisible something, as it were, in all this which was worth looking into, The old gentleman did not close the door after him, and Flipper improved the$chance to use his eyes and ears, Standing near the window was a young wo- man. She was neatly dressed, and, in every way, had an appearance of respectability which was hardly to be looked for there. So might a Murray Hill heiress have appeared, thought the Patrol. But this did not long hold his attention. Something else was. there to call wondering no- tice. Sbe was agitated; painfully agitated; and her eyes were full of undried tears, Evi- dently, she had just had a fit of violent weep- ing. e why, Viola, what is the trouble?” the old gentleman demanded, in shocked surprise, She struggled to regain composure, ** Nothing,” she returned, “Nothing, and you in such a mood! That is impossible. Have you heard bad news?” ‘*T have hear! none,” “Then what does this mean?’ Thus far she had kept up the conversation with a degree of fictitious composure, but she had reached the limit of endureunce, She burst into tears which were accompanied witb bysteri- cal emotion, } “* Bless me!” her companion murmured, still more amazed, Flipper felt rather guilty of standing there to witness what was, perhaps,a grief in which he could bave no possible interest; but the fascina- tion was not to be resisted. These persons, or one of them, at least, knew Dunning. If he wanted to work for Roger Hethington, no chance must be neglected to get on in that mat- ter; so Flipper kept his position and looked inno- cent and calm. ‘*My dear,” the old gentleman persisted, ‘‘you break my heart with your distress, If you will be calm and tell me—” Up sprung the girl, and passionately she ex- claimed: ‘* Will you let me alone? Am I a clod that you beat upon me thus? I want to be let alone!” Her companion gazed at her in a dezed, dum- founded way. Evidently, be was not used to hearing such words from ber lips, and the out- burst left him speechless. It was she who first recovered her calmness, Her anger went as suddenly as it bad come, and she remorsefully implored: “ Father, forgive me! I must have been mad. I don’t know why I spoke thus; I did not know what I was saying.” ‘* My dear, far be it from me to blame you at this time. I can plainly see you are in deep sor-: row, and I have no word of censure, But tell me what the trouble is.” Viola stood in silence. The explanation he craved did not come, There was a long lull, and Flipper was of the opinion it would grow longer before Viola divulged her grief, hatever it was, she plainly was not inclined to make it public property. “You say you have no bad news?” pursued the father. **T did say so.” ‘Then what can so distress you?” She hesitated, repressed another inclination to break into weeping, and then went forward and t ber arms around his neck. ‘* Father, don’t let us say anything more about this, now,” she urged, ‘‘ You are too wise to Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. heed the outbreak of a foolish girl. Let it go at that, for 1 assure you it is—nothing!” The statement was well vletiand. but poorly executed, It wonld bave deceived no one; her grief was so very apparent, a child would detect the insincerity of ber final statement, Her father shook his head. He seemed to real- ize that it would be useless to say more, and, af- ter a little meditation, he turned to Flipper Flynn and gave him a secret sign to follow him out of the room, This the latter was not reluctant to do. Once in the hall, the old gentleman asked in a whisper: **Do you arderstand this?” The Patrol knew of no reason why he should, but he replied with due gravity that be was un- able to grasp the meaning of it. “It is very unlike Vicla; I don’t see into it at all, She is usually of a very bappy disposition, It is beyond my comprebension.” **Do you live here, mister?” * No; wecame only a few daysago, Viola is to be married.” ** Oh! is she? ‘Yes, and to your friend, Mr, Dunning’s brother, Harold Dunning.” Flipper Flynn put two and two together, and began to suspect that there was, perhaps, good reason for Viola’s sudden emotion. Had she heard something in the next room which was re- sponsible for ber mood? ‘“* We live in St. Lawrence county,” went on the old gentleman. ‘‘Iam a retired farmer, and my name is Erastus Stowell, Viola is my daughter. A year ago, a young man came up from the city to board tor the summer. This was Harold Dunning. He met Viola, and they at once became interested in each other, The result of it was, they are engaged in matrimony. Farold is a very busy man, and he suggested that my daughter come down here to be married. He said he would send a friend to escort her down, but, cld as I was, I could not think of let- ting my only cbild be married without my being present. Iinformed him I would attend to that, and here we are. When we got tothe depot, however, Harold failed to meet us as he had planned, and we would have been in a fix but for one circumstance,” : Flipper thought he saw bow matters were moving, and he bazarded the guess: ‘Harold sent a friend, I s’pose?” ‘No. Once, when up country, he gave Viola acard which be thought was his, but it proved to have the name and address; ‘Gilbert Dun- ning, Hotel Cc. zy Cove, New York,’ Of course he explained that this was his brother, and the fact tbat Vioia kept the card gave us the only clew to what todo, We came here—” “* And Mister Harold ain’t showed up?” ““Not yet, but be is coming. Your friend, Gilbert, received us cordially, and sent word to his brother, He has been very kind. Now, we are expecting Harold every minute,” ** Av’ Viola in tears!” “bat is just what worries me, It will not be a pleasant way for bim to be received, if he finds ber in tears; and how to prevent it, I don’t know, What can be the matter with ber?” ‘** Mebbe Herold bas been here, already.” ‘**Tben where is he, now?” ‘“‘That’s where tbe conundrum comes in,” wisely informed the Patroi. Flipper did not care to speak all that was in bis mind. He imagined he could see a good ways into this matter, If Viola’s lover was the brother of Gilbert Dunning he might be a ras- cal of the first water, and that was just what Flipper bad marked him down. e bad heard of gay young meu from the city going to the country and making love to un- sophisticated girls, before, Sometimes they were gf triflers; sometimes they were cig A crooks. If Harold was of the latter order, it bad undoubtedly disarranged bis plans not a little to have old Mr, Stowell decide to accom- pany his daughter to New York, All this was to be studied out, but what meant Viola’s agita- tion. This could only be explained, the Patrol thought, by the presumption that sbe had in some way got an inkling of the truth. Mr, Stowell was old, and he did these facts and suspicions at all. Footsteps sounded in the ball; Flipper looked up and saw a stylish young man approaching witb a quick, light tread. Stowell saw him, too, and an expression of relief overspread his face, ** Here’s Harold, now!” he cried. The young man’s face beamed in return, ““My dear Mr. Stowell, is it you? he very You see, not grasp see you. And Viola—where is she?” : cordially exclaimed. ‘Iam most delighted to Pat
Page 5
to be married to-night,” CHAPTER V. « A STARTLING STATEMENT, Suspicious Flipper Flynn thought there was a good deal of the city ‘‘ confidence man” in this address, and in the warm way in which Harold Dunning grasped Stowell’s band; but the latter was as free from doubt as ever. He met the new-comer in equal cordiality. For a moment he forgot the trouble in the next room, and was only recalled to consciousness by the inquiry for the girl. Then his face suddenly grew grave. He hesi- tated what to say, but Harold took the responsi- bility from him, His gaze wandered to the number on the door, and he exclaimed; ‘‘ Here’s the room now. Ill surprise ber!” He opened the door without ceremony and went in. ‘‘ Howlin’ hyenas!” muttered Flipper; ‘‘ he’s in fer it, now!” Eager to see the result, the speaker pressed forward to the threshold. He was in time to see the whole drama, Harold and Viola were face to face. His ex- pression was eager, while the surprise of his sud- den entrance bad not yet, given her chance to assume a definite look for the occasion. But the visitor moved forward quickiy. * Viola,” he cried, ‘*I bavye come, at last! This is most awkward and unpleasant, but I ean explain itall. I am mucb chagrined, I do assure you,” His hands were outstretched to grasp hers, and she did not refuse the reception, but ber own hands lay like lifeless things in his clasp. She was silent and passive, ‘I got to you at the earliest possible moment,” he went on. ‘I bad to be busy just when I least wanted to be. One who is a hired man can’t be bis own boss, you knuw; and—” Harold stopped short. He had, at last, seen that he was not getting a warm welcome, “ Why, what is wrong?” he added, anxiously ; and if the anxiety was fictitious, it was well feigned, Viola had withdrawn her hand, though not roughly, and she now seemed to make an effort to recover her calmness, The attempt was a failure, and her endurance suddenly gave way. She dropped into a chair, covered her face with ber bands and burst into tears in the same vio- lent way before observed by two of those pres- ent, Harold looked amazed. ** What does this mean?” It was to Mr. Stowell he addressed the ques- tion, and that gentleman found bimself com- pelled to come to rhe front. ** Well, you see it’s like this—or, at least, you don’t see, { mean, J don’t see!” The good man floundered around over an ex- planation he was not capable of making, and came to a full stop. Harold gazed at him in what seemed to be genvine perplexity. ““[ referred to Viola’s grief,” he explained. “* What has gone wrong with her? I trust there is no bad news?” Stowell stroked his gray beard and looked at Viola as if imploring ber to come to his aid, but she did not do so; she kept up ber almost con- vulsive sobbing. Seeing that he must fight his own way, the father frankly confessed; ‘I shall bave to refer you to Viola, Much as I would like to make all clear, I can’t do it, for lam as much in the dark as you. Viola seems all broken up, but why, 1 have not been able to find out.” Harold looked perplexed, but settled down to the task of solving the mystery. He assumed a lover’s ways; he put his arm around her waist, and tried to get the explanation from her, This was not easy, but she finally recovered enough to curb her violent emotion. She raised ber head and spoke to the point. ‘Nothing is wrong with me,” she asserted, ~ half oplor meiy half-defiantly. ‘‘ You make a mistake in thinking tbere is,” ‘*But your tears?” ‘Tears do not always indicate trouble,” “ What else do they indicate?” s “Tt might be one of several things, As for myself, there is nothing the matter. You will ‘please not refer to the matter again,” _ Again ber manner was a mixture of appeal and defiance, but there was that in it which told pg who knew ber well that it would be use- to press the inquiry. Harold looked at Mr, _” Stowell helplessly, but the elder man came into | the discussion in the most inappropriate way able, “Never mind, young people,” he advised; *‘ this will all be Of beg Spemember that you are Viola started up quickly. Wy, I Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. ‘ - Never!” she cried. ‘‘1 refuse to listen to it! The two men stood in speechless amazement. Net so Flipper Flynn. He was not in the least surprised; the announcement was just what he bad been looking for. ‘*She’s dropped on Mister Harold in some way,” was bis mental decision; ‘‘ an’ that festive gent is in the drink, tue worst way. Will she tell why?” * You won't listen?” gasped Stowell, when he could command his voice enough to speak, ‘*T refuse to be married,” Viola distinctly ex- plained. ‘* What does this mean?” cried Harold, ‘*T have no statement to make, Call it a wo- man’s whim, if you will; it nakes no difference. Now, one thing more: | wish to be left alone, I want every one to go away from me!” She suddenly turned her gaze upon the Patrol, seeming to see for the first time that a stranger was present, ‘* Who is this boy?” she added, complainingly. Flipper Fiynn would not have been himself if he bad proved unequal to the occasion, He plucked off his old cap, and confidentially re- lied: i “Tvs all right, mum; I’m one o’ the white hen’s chickens, I’m a sort of necessary evil in the community, but not the worst or crookedest. 1 am on the square, an’ no assassin or man-killer, Yes; an’ I kin keep a secret, too!” He wiuked at her sagely, but the hint was thrown away. ‘‘ Why did you admita stranger here, father?” Mr. Stowell pulled at his beard and was un- certain, For the firsc time he realized that family secrets had been spread in a promiscuous way, and he wondered vaguely how it happened Flipper bad been taken into the conference, anyhow, Harold’s whole thought was of Viola’s apparent rebellion; be struck to that point tenaciously, ‘**J could not meet you at the depot,” he urged, ‘Sand I could not| get here sooner. I was sent out of town by my employer, and an accident to the train made me an oxile, there. I did my best, but I could not overturn the decrees of Nature. Iam sorry you are hurt about it—” ‘*Have I said I was?” ‘*No; but what else can it be? cause of your opposition to me—” “It is not!” ** Not the cause? What, then, in the name of all that’s wonderful, is the cause?” ‘*T have no explanation to make,” Viola, to speak lightly, ‘‘ held the fort.” The men looked dumbly at her. Stowell was amazed, and if Harold did not share the feeling, he gave a good imitation. Whenit was seen that she was going to say no more, the gen- tleman betbought himself of Flipper Flyun, again. He took the Patrol by the sleeve and led him out, and a wink to Dunning caused the latter to tk after. Viola was left in possession of the jeli, terious look, ‘* What does it all mean?’ he demanded, in a loud whisper, **I don’t know,” Harold returned; ‘‘ but, sure- ly you must have some clew to the matter,” “IT haven’t any. The girl came down here to marry you, and now sbe utterly repudiates the contract. It is astounding to me, Have you no theory to offer?” ‘*I can only infer that she is vexed because I have been so late,” “That is not it, Sbe has from the first insist- ed that you had some good reason for your ab- sence; and ske is not one to evade the point by falsehood or subterfuge.” weit Wy: he “Then ‘what are we to think?” The two men grappled with the conundrum in earnest, while Flipper Flynn smiled knowingly, ‘* Gents,” he thought, ‘* the trouble is that you give Viola a room too near the ranch of Mr, Gil- bert Dunning!” _ He was not disposed to intrude ais views upon any one. He had nct been asked for them; and he was not sure be would get out of the case well if he related what he did know. What reason- able excuse could he give for his invasion of Gil- bert’s room? If, as he suspected, Harold was in league with his brother in ways that were dark, it would be possible for him to order the arrest of the Patrol and have him sent to juil as a bur- glar. This would utterly destroy the value of his testimony, if it did not give bim aterm in the State’s service. The Patrol was duly dis- creet, ‘ Conversation lulled between the men, and Harold turned to Flipper. It must be the Once in the hall, Svowell put on a mys- ‘« About this boy,” he suggested; ‘I have not yet heard who he is,” : ‘*He’s a friend of your brother.” “ce Ob q” Harold did not look very much pleased with this information. ‘* Where is Gilbert?” he added, The question was addressed to Flipper, and he did not prove uvequal to the occasion, Calmly and seriously he replied: ‘‘T havo an idee he may hev gone out fer a shave, but I ain’t noways certain.” ‘** Has he been here lately?” “Tye a jest struck the burgh, myself, an’ can’tsay. He wa’n’t here when I ‘showed up. You ought ter know where be is, mister.” lt was a quiet suggestion to Harold, but it produced no visible uneasiness, Dunning an- swered: *T donot. Do you know my brother well?” ** About tolerable, I may say.” “Oh! he’s a friend of his,” put in Stowell, jumping at the conclusion recklessly. Harold evidently had some idea im his head, but what it was he did not explain. He and the old gentleman were all bound up in other mat- ters. Still further they discussed the mystery which threatened to break up a wedding. In the mean while, Flipper was doing some think- ing. FS ** Mebbe yer brother has got back, now, an’ is in his room, mister,” was bis suggestion, after he bad meditated somewhat, - Stowell caught at the idea. ‘* We'll look at once,” be decided, He opened the door and all walked in, but Gilbert was not there, The time had come, however, for the Patrol to spring his bomb, “ Wot’s that on the bed?” he asked, innocently. ‘* Why,” Stowell returned, ‘it’s almost like blood!” * Blood it is, gents,” the boy averred; ‘‘ an’ fresh, Say, who shed it?” CHAPTER VI, FLIPPER TAKES THE TRAIL. BEFORE making the last announcement Flipper Flyno bad gone through the form of pomaatan td the red stain on the bed, and he made his report without undue show of feeling. He watched sharply, however, to see what effect it would have upon Harold, Unfortunately, Stowell was not prepared for the tragic as the Patrol had been when he came in, and the old gentleman did nothing to belp along the plot. ; He did not know what meaning the red stain might, or might not bave, naturally. As for Harold, he ignored the thing entirely, Assum- ing a thoughtful expression, real or feigned, he stood like one wholly absent in mind, S wre persisted Flipper, ‘* w’ot d’ye think of it ‘*T know not,” impatiently answered Harold; “and I don’t krow as I care, I am going to leave you, Mr. Stowell I will see you at the earliest possible moment; but I have business, now. I hope you and Viola will come toan understan:ing, and have all fixed when I return,” Viola’s father hoped so, too; and he said as much. He was ina mood fora Jong talk about the mystery, but be was not humored, Harold had something else on hand, and he got out of the house as soon as possible, though with due ceremony and deference to his aged companion. A word to Flipper had caused that young man to follow; ard Harold turned upon him quickly. ‘* Boy, will you do an errand for me?” ‘* Reckon I kin, boss,” ‘*T want to make arrangements for my friends to go to a better place than this; and I want to get word to my brother, so he can help me out. All of this I cannot do at once, of course, Now, I would like to hire you to take word to Gilbert. Wil) you act for me?” ** T s’pose I might.” ‘Do it, and I will give youa dollar for your trouble, All I want is for you to notify him that I want to see him as soon as possible.” ‘‘ That’s simple,” ** Here is your money, and here is a card with my address. Give it to him, and tell bim to come to me at once,” ‘*T’m yer man.” Harold banded over the articles named, and then bastened away without waiting to see what the Patrol was going to do about it. lf he had remained, he would have seen Flipper stand perfectly still. “Old chap,” he soliloquized, ‘you want ter take a long breath at this point. Yon want ter see where you are. You’ve been driftin’ with the tide, an’ it would puzzle a Feladelpby law~
Page 6
_ Was 80 er ter know where you stand. You are work- ing fer some several men, an’ you’ve claimed ac- quaintance with more. Where will you come up, ef you go the gait much longer?” He considered the matter seriously. If he had ossessed less nerve he would have ended it all y getting out of the whole affair while he could, but this was not bis way. He had become inter- ested, and was eager to see the sequel. After some thought, he re-entered the hotel and made further search for Roger Hethington ; but the latter was not visible, nor could he find any one who had seen him, The Englishman had gone out of sight as completely as if the earth had opened and swallowed him up, and when Flipper remembered the red stain in Gil- — Dunning’s room, he shook his head doubt- ully. ‘*T don’t see how the work could hev been done successfully right in broad daylight, but there’s the red stain, and there’s the panic Viola isin, All these things must mean somethiog. I don’t like ter malign nobody, but it looks bad!” It was not easy to decide on a plan of action, but .the Patrol was not yet prepared to make charges against any one, He was wel) aware that the word of one as young as he was not al- ways accepted by older persons readily; it was prudent for him to go slow, ‘* [ll see Gilbert afore I get a moveon. He is a feller who ain’t ter be sneezed at, ef I size him up correct. Here goes fer bis nibsey! {f hope the word ain’t got ter him that I know him, fer it would kinder s’prise him; an’ it might result in his settin’ down on me, hard!” He looked at the given address again, and then set out, The distance was not a long one, and he was nearing the point when be had an encounter, A small girl blocked his way. ** Say,” she exclaimed, ‘‘do you know where the police station is?” The Patrol paused and looked at her critically. ‘* Want ter be arrested?” he inquired. ‘*Me? Dear me! no; it would just scare me ter death!” she declared, ‘* You know how it feels, do ye? SodolI! A grim and ghastly thiog is the police shop, He who enters there leaves hope behind.” Flipper did not intend to do any harm, or to discourage the inquirer, but he was in a very doubtful mood, himself, and inclined to look upon the future as something not especially bright for him. Tbe small girl, not being in this secret, was more than ever alarmed by his serio-comic air, which seemed to be wholly secious, She stood in silence until ke went on: ** Police is a necessary evil. We approve on ’em until they kinder set; down on us, an’ then we don’t, See? When the innocent, like me, is dragged off ter spend the balance o’ their nat’ral days in hock, it becomes sorter serious, by gum!” ‘*T don’t know what I am ter do,” ‘* Wot do yer want ter do?” “Dll tell you,” was the confidential reply. *“*My name is Betty Gray, an’!] live at Mrs. Jacobs’s, Now, there is a young man there they are keeping a prisoner, He’s in danger, fer they hev got some awful plot in view, an’ 1’ve got ter help him out; but 1 don’s kuow now ter do it. It’s a big job.” ‘¢ Got him pris’ner, hev they?” ** We think so,” “Ef it’s only a case o’ think, why don’t he put on his patent-leathers an’ walk out, his- self?” ** He’s sick, an’ can’t walk.” “‘That’s a cat of a different color. He ought ter hevime fer an aid,” This was another grim joke on Flipper’s part, for he believed be was alreacy loaded down with difficulties; but Betty caught at the idea, ** Won’t you do it?” she cried, eagerly. _ ** Miss, I advise you ter go ter the police.” “But I’m afraid o’ them; I don’t know w’ot they would do ter me. I always was afraid o’ them, an’ you tell me there is good reason fer it. I wouldn’t go ter them fer the world! 1 want you to help me, You are just the one ter do it.” The Patrol saw he had gotinto trouble with bis joke, and he set out to undo the mischief; but found he had undertaken a large contract, Betty had only gained courage enough to go to the police by desperate efforts, and Flipper bad swept all that courage away. He failed to re- store it with all bis eloquence. Somehow, the girl was attracted to him strongly; it became a xed idea with her that be must take part in the venture. As she described the situation more fully he gained an interest, himself, and the fact that it pposed the job was a sbort one, had due effect. ‘if Isaac Moss kin hey some one as stropg as Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. you ter give him an arm, he kin walk out,” per- sisted Betty; ‘* be said so, hisself.” ‘*My friend, I reckon you can count me in, though ef this wa’n’t sech a short job 1 couldn’t do it, nohow. I s’pose I hey more biz on hand than the Mayor of Weehawken, already. Still, | ef we kin run off the present ribbon in quick | order, why, here goes, Lead on, my charmer!” Betty was ready enough; she started, and | Flipper was obliged to make bis legs play nimbly | to keep with her. Several blocks were traversed, and then they arrived at the house of adven- ture, P Mrs. Kate Jacobs was noted for ber vigilance, especially in things where money was at stake, but Betty had arranged to beat her out, Once at the scene, the girl whisked Flipper in through the house of a neighbor; then to the back-yards, and then into the Jacobs residence by the back door, This bit of strategy was helped on by good luck, and she conducted the Patrol to Isaac Moss’s room, without meeting any one on the way, They were soon in Isaac’s presence, whereupon Becty burst forth explosively: ‘+ Here’s the one to rescue ye, sir!” ‘Ah! So you’ve made a raise!” © Yes, sir.” ‘* A keen-looking lad. My boy, are you pre- pared tu lift a lame dog over the fence?” ‘* Not ter-day; it ain’t in my line. What I be here fer is ter get you out o' hock, ef you need it; an’ the sooner we git a wiggle on, the better it will be fer us,” ‘* You never spoke truer, and we will lose no time, Explanations can come later. Here, my good friend, give me your arm, and we will get out of here as soon as possible,’ The direct way in which Isaac came to the point was the best evidence that he realized the gravity of the occasion, - The levity he had been in the habit of using with Betty no longer marked his manner. He looked anxiously to- ward the door as he gave the last direction, Flipper did not — bim waiting. He gave his arm, as requested, and Isaac put forth his strength, [He did not come out of the chair, and a sudden change came over his face. “*Can’t ye make it?” asked the Patrol. ‘“‘T'm afraid I can’t!” Isaac confessed, almost in a whisper. ** Aia’t yer legs no good?” “They are like rags. They have all along refused to support me, but I was foolish enough to believe the help of a strong arm would suffice to make them of tbe necessary muscle, It is useless; I could not stand with a dozen men to assist me.” ‘© Wot’s ter be done, then?” ** What, indeed?” “*T can’t carry you, fer [ ain’t got the muskle of Samson, Mister, you’ve got ter call in more beef, AsI understand this matter, you expect Mother Jacobs an’ her gang ter swaller you, socks an’ all, ef you don’t slip away, immejit. Wal, you've got ter call in the police!” ‘* No, no!” Isaac exclaimed, ‘* Why not?” “That I don’t know, but, in my norrible con- dition, with my past utterly lost to memory, I bave an unexplainable, yet strong, feeling that, of an taings, I want to keep out of sight of the ice, The Patrol regarded Isaac with doubt which was not unmixed with suspicion, He had allowed Betty to prevail over bis good nature, and had come on an errand not to his liking; but why an honest man, ir his right mind or out of it, should object to being saved by the police he could not understand, ‘You can get somebody else, can’t you?” asked Betty, anxiously, putting her hand coax- ing] i the Patrol’s arm. f “Don’t think I kin,” be returned, ‘* When I doa job I like ter hev some light on the mat- ter. ‘*Great heavens!” Isaac exclaimed; ‘‘If you object to being in the dark, what do you think of me?” ae CHAPTER VII. LOST TO SIGHT. THE appeal was not lost on Flipper Flynn. “That's a fact,” be agreed, ‘* With your past all locked up you do need light, an’ you are in a bad way, I will admit, Cheer up!--Ill stand by ye, my friend. Yes; I'll gofera helper, We'll get a whole regiment, ef necessary,” ‘*One man will be enough,” hastily returned Tsaac. ‘“ Allright; ic shall be jest as you say. Now, don’t let us lose any more time, Tl be off like a wild hoss of the plains, Observe me gallop! Jest you hold the fort a few minutes longer, ai you shalt see me with a posse of one. So- ong! lipper tried to be as cheerful as possible, and be shook Isaac’s band cordially and began the effort to get back to the street without being seem by the people of the heuse, {In this he was successful, and he felt relieved when he again trod the pavements. Yet, he knew the danger was not over for Isaac, He looked anxiously at a neighbo ing clock, ‘No time ter lose, old chap! Ef they are in a hurry ter get the feller moved they may beat you out, ef you don’t get a wiggle on. Who shall I get fer a helper? Why, Michael Moran, ter be sure. Off I go!” The Patrol was ignoring Isaac’s wishes in one respect when he thus decided, Moran was a de- tective, but it was in the private line, and he well knew he was to be trusted. No very long journey lay before him, and he was soon in Moran’s presence, It need scarcely be said that the en, of the story was @ short matter with the nimble-tongued Patrol. As for the detective, he listened with a smile. ‘* What will you be into, next?” he pope ay asked, ‘* You are always baving some such ad- venture under way.” ‘€ One such, did you say?” “* How?” ‘You speak in the singular number, pard. One? Great howlin’ hyenas! That ain’t an name fer it, 1 hev got enough under way at th blessed minute ter sink a ship! 1 am out on sev’- ral errands, now, all at once. I hev left one ter do another, an’I presoom I shall leave this in the same style. Biz? Why, it is fairly hum- min’! But that ain’t the point: Will you go along with me an’ rescue the Isaac chap?” **T shall not lose the chance to get onto a a case,” ‘* You don’t want ter let Isaac know you’re a detective, or he will give you the giant fire,” ‘Trust me for that,” They went out, and Flipper more fully unfold- ed his plan, Some scheme had to be devised for taking Moss away, and the simplest of all seem- ed to be to add a cabman tothe party, This was done, Then they made haste to get to the Jacobs house, The Patrol and Moran agreed that the proper course was to get Moss out unseen, if possible; eo they returned to the interior by the same way in which Flipper had retreated—the back yard. ‘Strikes me it’s very silent here,” Moran re- marked, “*T wuz jest thinkin’ o’ that.” ‘* All the better, if it’s the right kind of silence; but it may be the enemy has dropped on your scheme, and isin wait for us. Keep a weather eye open, Flip!” “ve got two on ’em propped open,” A feeling of uneasiness entered the speaker’s mind when he saw that Betty was not at hand to receive them, but it would not do to wait for her, They crept tbrough the hall and up the stairs. No one appearec to challenge them, Isaac’s room was at hand. They went to the door, yet the feeling would not down that all this good luck might prove to be anything but that, Flipper opened the door, The room lay revealed to their gaze—and it was all they saw, Isaac was not there! Moran turned a questioning gaze upon Flipper, and saw him with a blank and dismayed face, ‘* Patrol, what does this mean?” ** Pard, we're too late!” “Do you think—” “Tsaac hes been took away! There ain’t no other way ter account fer it. No wonder Betty wa’n’t here ter receive us. Mister, this gives me a shock; the enemy bes got the bulge ou us, as sure as guns!” ‘Your friends may be in hiding,” * But Isaac can’t walk a step, No, sirree; we can’t rely on no sech good luck as that, We | are jest one lap too late,” ‘*Did you learn where this other place was that they intended to take their prey to?” ““No. Nobody knew but them, Isaac didn’t; Betty didn’t, It is dead sure we don’t.” ‘* Let us not remain here idle. Improbable as it appears, they may yet be in the house, We'll throw secrecy to the dogs; if we can get a grip on the gang, they shall give up Moss or get a deal they won't relish. Come on!” He led the way, and the Patrol did not seek to check him, Unceremoniously they opened the door nearest them. It revealed oply a vacant room. The attempt was begun, and they prose- cuted it zealously. That floor was soon searched: then they went below and, while Flipper stood guard, Moran went on with the work repidivs I now seeking only for Mrs, Jacobs and her
Page 7
i ¢ covered them, history of the end; not a person could he unearth any where, ** Done up!” the Patrol commented, as Moran reappeared, ‘* We are baffled, surely.” ** Dye s’pose they got onter my visit?” '“*Tt matters not, since they are gone,” **Yes; an’ Isaac is gone with them. Likxe- wise, Betty; a trim little maiden I got a good bit interested in. Say, sport, it goes awfully ag’inst the grain fer ter be done up in this way. It ain’t my style ter lose all my eggs out o’ the basket; an’ this time they are plum’ an’ the basket witb ’em. Tough luck, by gum!” To ease his feelings, the speaker kicked over one chair, and then sat down in another in a melancboly frame of mind, ‘What are you going to do now?” gsked Moran. ‘* What kin I do?” ** Will you give it up?” “Will 1? Say, general, I guess you don’t know the huckleberry you are addressing of, do ye? Give up? Not for Jeremiah! 1 bev took an interest in this case thet I don’t ginerally take in anything: I hev. Result, I’m goin’ ter see it through or bu’st in the seein’, Themjis my sentiments, Michael,” ‘*T am rejoiced to find you ye gle This is, I do believe, a case in which all honest persons should feel an interest; and as upholders of the law, we clearly have a sacred duty to perform,” ‘* Dunno about that; but we’re goin’ ter kuock the stuffin’ out o’ them measly critters!” Flipper declared. ‘Put it as you will,” “Ef I kin, Pll put it with a thump that'll make ‘em see stars,’ “Well, this house is unoccupied. Whatever we do must be done with outsiders, Can you suggest anything?” + No ” “Then we'll try interviewing the neighbors,” They s-ent out, but the plan did not work to acharm. No one had seen the Jacobs party leave, or if they had, they did not see fit to say so. When interrogated as to the character of Mrs. Kate and her associates, they professed aque ignorance, bere was a chance that this was not the most reliable of information, but they had to let it go at that. When inquiry of cabmen in the vicinity bad been made without avail, both ’ Flipper and Moran were ready to give up for the time being. ‘*T’m going to keep at it, though,” added the detective, ‘ Will you meet me to-morrow?” “Dil try ter,” **Doso. You will, I am sure, find this a case of rare interest. We read about men who lose their identity like Isaac Moss, but such cases are rare. I never saw one, before. Naturally, this novelty is very interesting—” “Yes; ter all but Isaac!” “The point is well made; Poor fellow! he has my sincere sympathy. Well, good-night! Come to my office to-morrow; [ will be there, or will leave word so you can find me,” He hastened away with the air of a man who is bound for bed and glad of the fact. Flipper Flynu thrust his hands deep into bis pockets and muttered: “*So-long, my friend, an’ may yer dreams be happy ones, Ez fer me, I don’t expect ter dream right away, though I inay bev the worst kind of a nightmare, I ain’t forgot I am due at Gilbert Dunning’s boudware, an’ ef I cast my shadder on the wall I want ter be about it, by gum! It ain’t so early as it was.” He looked again at the address; then hastened ars J 4 “Dm goin’ ter get the cobwebs out o’ my eyes right away,” he pursued. ‘I’ve got too much biz fer one small youtb, an ef it wa’n’t fer keep- ing my word, I should never deliver this letter o’ mouth. As ’tis, ll git it off the hooks on the rush.” He was reckless to go near Gilbert, and he knew it, but, arriving at the place, he boldly rung the bell. He was informed that the person Was in, and was soon in his presence. CHAPTER VIII. THE HEAD VILLAIN. _Fuiprer Fiynn knew Gilbert at first sight. He had heard him described, and bis face was not one to be in doubt about, The red hair and florid face furnished their own identification, as e d mise ' out Wig ‘ pA ; A vy bie as 4 a ‘ “J : ery Bn, Cera ” J be rats be d cs * r. An T . + Ray ay ch ee le aniline . +. ae Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. —— pete — friends; and prepared to initiate war if he dis- it were, Gilbert was not in the least like | no other stceck in trade. He was tempted to fall . | Harold Duaning, 1n appearance, but he was | back on denials, but thought better of it and, But the history of the beginning was the | very much like himself, as the Patrol aptly ex- | suddenly looking up, made answer: pressed it, ** You wished to see me?” Gilbert inquired, ‘That wuz the objict of my supernat’ral ap- | pearance,” Fhpper gravely returned, ‘ You see—” Before he could explain more the door sudden- | | | ly opened and a man entered unannounced. / The Patrol drew a quick breath. assuming an aspect far from pleasant to bim. The new-comer was Harold Dunning! ** Hello!” saluted Gilbert, carelessly. ** So your friend is still with you?” returned the brother, stopping short. “My friend?’ **This young man,” and he pointed to Flipper Flynn. ** On! be’s onl | a chance visitor, who dropped in just now, ” never saw him uutil a second Harold looked surprised, and the Patrol ee it was time for him to come into the ‘This gent is right,” headmitted, ‘‘ You see, there wasa mistake at the other ranch. The gent from the clover-fields of the Adirondacks was doin’ all the talkin’, an’ be did it so well I had ter let him wiggle; no chance fer a modest youth ter get a word in edgeways. He jumped ter the conclusion I was a friend of Mr. Dunving, an’ I let the guess run, It dian’t matter much, Gilbert gazed at the glib speaker sharply. ** What’s all this about?” he asked, suspiciously, ‘“‘ Nothing,” the otber brotber returned, impa- tiently. ‘It is a mere trifle. delivered my message, boy?” “* Not yet, fer I was delayed on the way by an accident I couldn’t git away with, I'll do it now, though, mister: yer brother would like fer Have you duly ter see you at yer earliest convenience!” “A great fellow you are ter run an errand!” retorted Harold. ‘*Get out of here, now; we have no use for an unfaithful servant, You can ** Wait!” ordered Gilbert. ‘‘ I may want some- thing to say in this case, Sit down, boy; you and I will have a talk, later on.” ‘** All right, general.” In every way the florid-faced man betrayed the fact that be was full of suspicion, but Flip- per was not to be frightened. He had confidence in himself and his ability to get out of trouble, and it was an excellent chance to study Gilbert, while he was in the same business himself, Hence, he was perfectly calm, and when he was directed to go into the next room, he went non- chalantly, Unfortunately, one of his plans came to grief at the start; when he set out to act the listener, he found he could hear nothing. Evidently, the master of the place was as sbrewd as he was sus- icious; he compelled Harold to talk in tones so ow that nothing was audible in the other room, Now, the Patrol was not wholly certain he had done wisely to put himself so fully in Gilbert's power, but he did not even look to see if there was a way of escape. “I'm in fer it,” be soliloquized, ‘‘an’? I’m bound ter see the whole figger danced. Ive got Mister Gilbert sized up, already; he’s a fly gent of the first water, Can’t say he’s a crook, but his mug wou sion to the Tombs on suspicion, be would say ef I come out boldlv an’ asked bim pousrey whether d get him admis- Wonder w’ot where Roger Hethington is? Mebbe, old chap, you’d better not do it, though.” Before the delay bad grown unpleasant, the door opened and Gilbert appeared to view. He pau~ed on the threshold and looked attentively at the Patrol. The pause grew burdensome before it was broken. “Say,” observed the Flipper, at length, “it won’t cost you a red ter say something!” ** Boy,” Gilbert returned, ‘* who are “Pm my fatber’s son!” “Granted! What else?” ** Nothin’.” ** Have you no explanation to make?” ** Dunno ez I hev.” You know me!” **Do I?” “Surely; and if you are my friend, you will speak out.” Flipper Flynn was nonplused. He had the nerve to take advantage of this natural mistake on Gilbert’s part, but be did not know how to do it properly, Headlong assurance might simply make him ridiculous, and he could have anyhow.” “ No.” Harold seemed to believe what he said, but | you?” Matters were | That’s all I hev ter say.’ “* Well, boss, Lam square when I sayI ain’t onter yer biz, much, 1 know you get a livin’ the hest way you kin,”—be watched sharply to see the result of bis venture—“ an’ ‘that is about ail Ido know, Can’t claim yer acquaintance, nor that of any of yer bosom friends; but,I do know some gents who are as fly as they make ’em. Plainly, Gilbert was favorably impressed by this statement. ; ** All right; but I really thought you had come here on some secret errand. I didn’t want m7 brother to get onto it,” ** Ain’t he safe?” ‘** He don’t know of all my work.” “The Englisbman, fer instance?” Gilbert looked puzzled. ** What do you mean?” ‘Ob! ef you don’t know, I guess I won’t tell you, Never mind, Gil; you an’ I understand each other.” The master of the place did not agree to this statement, nor did he deny it, He answered evasively, and a general conversation followed, It was one in which the Patrol had a deep in- terest. He wished toso win bis companion’s con- fidence that he would throw caution away and Jet the boy into his secrets, ina measure. Tothisend Flipper worked,but when the interview was over, he could not see that he had made any visible advance, The host had been sociable, he had been willing to talk on almost any subject; but had skillfully avoided saying what could be used against him in the future, directly or in- directly. He finally yawned and observed: “It is bed-time, and I shall bave to turn you out. However, I'll call on you, some ,time, if you'll give me your address,” “Will you?” thought the Patrol. ‘I'd bea clam ter put youin that way until I found out jest how you stand. You kin bev an address, but while it will be one where! sball bear ef you call, you can’t find me there ter drop on!” dicot Ws answered in an innocent way, and then prepared to go, Gilbert had religtted a half-smoked cigar, using a piece of paper and the gas-light near him. He then made a cast to throw the remnant of the paper into the fire, but only succeeded in throwing it on the floor, Flipper could afford to be obligin z, so he stoop- ed to get the burning fragment and save his companion labor. He had the paper over the fire when he chanced to catch sigut of a name on its surface, “* Isaac Moss!” It might mean nothing, but the thing did not reach the fire. The Patrol’s back furnished a sbield to his operations, and he quickly and neat- ly thrust the paper into his pocket. Gilbert bad seen nothing, and he puffed the cigar in a contented way as his visitor went out. **T'll see you again,” he promised, once more, ** All right, mister; you shall!” The promise had a deeper meaning than Gil- bert suspected, but be wus not enlightened fur- ther then, Flipper lost no more time on the way, and was soon on the street. He chuckled as his feet pressed the sidewalk, and winked as if he had happened on a good joke, ‘You're pretty fly, Gil!” he acmitted, ‘yet you wa’n’t in it, that time. I’ve fooled you a good bit—unless you’ve fooled me wuss than I know on. We'll see.” He paused near a street-lamp to look at the paper thus peculiarly acquired. Words were written, there, and e proceeded to decipher them. The fire bad consumed the i yl pert of the page. and but little was left. e read the remnant: “Tsaac Moss is not likely ever to be any bett'm but yon will make no mistake by being careful, Mr. Dunning. Caution is the silent partner of success. Come and see him when we get him moved. You need have no fear of being recognized; he wou'd nct know his own mother. G. D. would not awaken a thought in his darkened mind. Come, by al! means, » and see your man. § e how his past has been swept away; see how little fear you have of ever mecting him asarival He is—” This was the end, Flipper whistled softly, se Well, by gum!” he exclaimed, “ that’s nice, So Gil is in that game, too? Well, he’s a cork- er! There could be no doubt that it was Gilbert to whom the letter was addressed; the initials ‘‘ G, D.” served to prove an alibi for Harold. Flipper was surprised to see his two cases run together, but while he was considering the point, be was startled by the laying of a hand on his shoulder, 7 ? al - ~ - . 3 r \ be. ‘ os ae ‘ - ‘ ’ Sey 4 ~ Pe . +b ge ren . pig oni i, , oe ; q ; rare dat , fi Lat ee NRPS Ba * ies ee ee ee - ae r a wu a: — "7 — , ws
Page 8
Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. CHAPTER IX. WHAT OLD SPICER WANTED, THE Patrol wheeled quickly. Before him stood a man whose persona! appearance certain- ly did not furnish a recommendation fur him. e looked as if he were a remnant of some more attractive article, and had just crawled out of bed, at that. ** Hullo, young feller!” he remarked rather than exclaimed. ** Hullo, old feller!” was the Patrol’s easy re- sponse, as he surveyed bis companion doubtfully, ** Out fer the air?” * Naw; I’m out fer myself,” ““Of course you be, but I guess you know wot Imean, Say, ain’t you Flipper Flynn?” ‘** That’s my handle, general.” “T thought so. Well, I was lookin’ fer yon. Iwas sent out fer that very puppuss. Some- body wants fer ter seo ye, Master Flynn.” ** Who?” ** A feller named Isaac Moss has sent fer you; sent me ter find ye. I wuz on the way when I happened on you. Ye see, I’ve seen ye before, Why, sure; you an’ me bas cantered around Houston street soil fer many a day, ain’t we? Well, I guess!” The seedy man poked Flipper playfully in the ribs, and laugbed in a way not pleasing to the person whose , acquaintance was thus freely Claimed, Flipper regarded his new acquaint- ance suspiciously, ‘*General, I don’t know you,” be admitted. ‘* Pm Old Spicer.” Wot dye spice?—Tom an’ Jerry, an’ sech beverages?” ‘Ha! ha! you’re a funoy feller! But say, Isaac wants ter see you, bad; he does,” Flipper regarded Mr, Spicer doubtfully. He was not one toawaken a feeling of confidence or admiration. He was like the last run of Poverty and deinoralization; and the message he bore did not recommend him to thefPatrol, Instead, that wary adventurer was at once sus- picious of a trap, Tbe encounter smacked of more than chance, ‘** Yes,” replied the boy, with dignity; ‘1 am a funny feller. I wuz built that way by chance, an’ they saw I was spilt fer any other pur- pose, so they let me stand, But that ain’t ter the point; w’ot do you mean to say is the reason you are here?” ‘*Tsaac sent me,” “Who's he?” ‘**Tsaac Moss, you know.” *"Um!, An’ where is he?” “*Over on South Fifth avenue. I don’t know me juumber 0’ the house, but I kin find it, you set. This was not getting light very fast, but Flipper persevered; be subjected Old Spicer to a catechis:1, and arrived at this explanation: The seedy gentleman was a rounder about South Fifth avenue and vicinity, He bad, be claimed, been called into a house by a smal girl, and giver an interview with a man who announced bis name as Isaac Moss, This man bad em- ployed him to take a message to Flipper Flynn, stating that he was in trouble and wanted im- mediate help, * **He said,” added Old Spicer, “that ef you would come, you an’ me could take him out ez wal ez a dozen men; so ef you want ter, we will amble along.” “ Allright, my friend; amble as soon ez you please,” The ready answer pleased Mr. Spicer, as the Patrol plainly saw, but he did not, bimself, hesi- tate in the least. , Nevertheless, Flipper had no intention of go- ing far in Spicer’s lead. He regarded the fellow as a very poor kind of a decoy. Rascal was branded on bim indelibly by Nature, and whisky had added to the marking. Seeing the gleam of his evil little eyes, one would be very foolish, indeed, to go into danger with him as a guide. Flipper simply intended to see the outside of the house he claimed shel- tered Isaac, and then get away at full speed. , Events proved that the enemy had foreseen just this caution, and bad a more timely plot on the programme, As they were passing the corner of a street, two other persons tarned around from the oppo- | site way, coming so suddenly that the Patrol found himself facing them before he could fairly make out what he had to meet, He did see one thing, however, which was not in need of ex- planation. ¢ é A hand was reached out to grasp bim, and only his habit of vigilance and his agility saved him. Quickly lowering his head. be dodged un- der the man’s arm before be really had time to think what he was doing. The prompt action, } though, took him past the man, and as he turned he had a most interesting view. Both of the strangers were looking at him as if they had him already, and Old Spicer was join- ing them inthe regard, In an instant it flashed upon the Patrol tbat his danger had been in the street, not in any house; and it was clear he had made tne escape by a hair’s- breadth. ‘* The young hound has escaped!” cried one of the gang. ‘* After bim!” But Flipper saw Old Spicer’s lips move, and, though he was too wily tu look at bis allies as he spoke, the resuJt was soon perceptible. The other men seized upon him, and Spicer made a great feint at struggling. ‘*Help! Flip; help!’ heimplored, ‘* Come ter my aid!” A mocking laugh eseaped the boy’s lips. ‘*Say,” he returned, ‘‘ what fer a greener do you take me ter be? See any hayseed in my bair?” Wall Spicer, “Ef you want help, apply ter your chums who are holdin’ of yeup! Tom-an’-Jerry, I hate ter say it, but we must part; the trick is too thin. I’mon! So-long!” He waved bis hand and turnedaway. It tien became clear to the gang that the game was, in- | deéd, up, and they took steps accordingly.“ As you desert a comrade?” persisted one man they rushed in pursuit of the Patrol. He uttered another derisive laugh, “*Tll see you later, gents. Ef any’ you want ter apply fer a chance ez sprinters, now’s the time. Whoop!—get a wiggle on, an’ show yer blood!” It was not a generous thing for him to say and do. From tbe first be bad a walk-over, The enemy floundered along in the rear in the painfully laborious style of heavy weights, They slipped and panted; and they would have yelled their vain rage had they rot had occasion to fear the results. Policemen havea habit of inves- tigating such things, and for the police this ag- gregation of men had a deep, if not a boly hor- ror, Flipper Flynn soon left them behind. Then he took matters more easily, ! ‘Old chap, you had a close call, then!” be re- marked, confidentially. ‘‘Wily scheme, they had there; I never thought of hevin’ any rum- puss by the way, The way I sized it up was that they wanted ter decoy me in som’er’s, an’ then set down on my anatomy. Well, old chap, you’re out of it, an’ I see that you’re all hunk. Now, how do we stand?” He paused by a street-lamp to again look at the half-burned note secured from Gilbert’s room, He read it through meditatively, - ‘*Tsaac Moss has lost his name an’ other things, Wal, b’jinks! I allow I hev found ’em fer him, Whoshould he be but Lionel Hethington, brother ter my other new friend, Roger Hethington? Ef this ain’t the right deal, it is a most amezin’ coincidence,” ‘ The evidence did, indeed, seem strong, and his ae did not waver as he made his way home- ward, **Tll see Detective Michael Moran the first thing in the mornin’,” he muttered, as he turned over on his bed. ‘* Him an’ I will—” His voice ceased, and he was asleep, The next morning he found that his hard work had left him somewhat weary and sore, but his zeal never had been greater, He swallowed bis breakfast hurriedly, and then made a line for Moran’s, There disappointment awaited bim; Moran was out, and his whereabouts and prob- able time of return could not be told by any one at the place, He mext went over to Erastus Stowell’s hotel, but fownd the place was bis stopping-point no longer. Harold Dunning had taken tho old gen- tleman and his daughter away at an early hour, the inquirer was told, The Patrol did not in- quire for Gilbert, but a chance remark made known the additional fact that the brother had not been around since the previous night, This disposed of one more chance, and Flipper went out feeling at a loss how to take up the trail again. ; He walked on for some time in a meditative mood, but was suddenly aroused, ** Cricketty-jim!” he exclaimed; Betty Gray!” He crossed the street quickly, and accosted the girl, She had been walking ina way which seemed aimless, “Hullo, Sunshine!” was bis eager greeting. ** How goes it?” She looked up, and her face grew bright. **On! Pm sogiad ter see you!” she declared, “ there's ra 1 eral i Tae dy Na ere ey PERT Ve oP that’s encouragin’, — Kinder coincidental, too, fer I feel jest that way myself, Say, how’d you drop here?” ‘* They’ve cast me off!” ** Who hev?” ‘* Mother Jacobs, an’ the rest.” Wal, now “Be you? ‘*You don’t say so! An’ where in the dickens be they? Yes; an’ where is our friend, Isaac?” “T don’t know. They moved last night. I tried ter keep track on ’em, an’ seem iunocent: an’ not ter let on that I was out o’ likin’ with ‘em, but it didn’t go. You see, they went all of a sudden, when they did go. The carriage come ter the door; they bundled us in on the run, an’ off we went. Isaac never said a word, but he gave me a secret look an’ shook his bead, as ef ter caution me not ter berash. Of course I was jest ez mum as be.” ‘‘ But where did the carriage take ye?” “That’s wot worries me; I don’t know, We drove a long ways, an’ then pulled up at a house in a street I never bad seen before, I stogd there lookin’ around, but Mother Jacobs grabbed me an’ told me ter get a move on, Then I was hustled back inter the carriage, an’ told I was ter go an’ get some things, I wanted ter find out w’ot I was ter get, but before I could ask, away went the carriage. We traveled a long ways, an’ then the driver, he stops, gets out, an’ says ter me: ‘ We stop | here!” ‘* Where was you?” ‘* Over on Greenwich avenue.” ‘Dye know anybody there?” “Not a soul. You wait an’ hear me, I hadu’t no sooner got on the sidewalk than he whipped up bis hosses, an’ away be went, I° didn’t see him no more,” *" **Dead shook!” Flipper agreed. ‘‘ Wo’t did ye do then?” “TY couldn't do but one thing; f went back ter the old quarters. When I got there I couldu’t git in, but one o’ the neighbors took me inter her house.” ‘*Dead shook!” repeated the Patrol, gloomily. “This mornin’ I started out ter find Mother Jacobs’s new place, but I can’t do it.” ‘‘ Never mind; you don’t want ter find it. It might be dangerous!” : CHAPTER X. THE ACCUSATION, FLIPPER FLYNN made the statement seriously, but Betty quickly exclaimed: ‘Pll stand by Isaac, anyhow!” ‘‘T know; that’s your way. A good one, you be, Sunshine, but ye don’t want ter run no risk of taking one o’ Isaac’s best friends away from him fer all time. Now, ez I look at this matter, you hev been shook off by the inemy, Well, I think they’ve done a foolish thing. By shakin’ you they hev made you ap out-an’-out enemy, which is su’thin’ they can’t afford ter do,” ‘* Mebbe they was on ter me,” “That's a fact.” **T don’t know w’ot ter do, now. I want ter. find them, fer I think they would take me in, ef only ’ecause they’re afraid o’ me; but where be they?” Betty you be calm, Don’t try ter rush this matter, Let me do the fine work, an’ I hev an idee we shall come up with a grin, yet. Mike Moran an’ yer bumble servant will go fer ’em like a colored gent fer water-millious. See?” Betty was not satisfied with the mere promise. but sbe hed to let it go at that. She looke worn and sleepy after her troubled night, and agreed to go to a safe place and recuperate, Flipper knew just the chance, and he soon bad her domiciled with friends of his. He then went out again, “T’ve got rid o the non-combatants,” he mused, ‘San’ now I'll go fer the enemy in @ way that’]! make ’em howl—ef I kin find the measly critters, We'll see.” ** His course was again toward Moran’s, but he did not reach there. He bad traveled but a comparatively short distance when be saw aman — whose presence cbanged the whole course of events, ; ‘Mister Harold Dunning! Now, then, w’ot’s he up ter? These are stirrin’ times, an’ I can’t afford ter Jet no chance slip, Dun, ol’ feller, I’m | dead onter you!” ’ \ Tois mysterious fannouncement cid not mean anything more ominous than thatthe Patrolhad planned to act the spy on the gentleman refer- red to. He fell in like a soldier, and began the pursuit, ‘ \ Five minutes later Harold reached Washing- ton Square, He paused and looked around closely, AL “ Expectin’ somebody, is he?” muttered the , ret q ae : A EL Pea Man lee y Oe ee”. BAY |, a 4 ets y fies Ts mee) , aN sug } hh *
Page 9
_ cusation upon the former occupants, _ must go to the dogs, I won’t go alone!’ Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. Patrol. ‘“ Wal, Dun, Pll hev a squint at him, too. Oh! soit?’sa woman! The plot darkens!” Flipper thought he had the matter down fine, but the result actually dazed him. Harold, after the sharp survey, bad gone forward rapidly toward a lady who, clearly, bad been waiting. She rose to meet bim, and Flipper sidled up, strong in the faith that be was going to discover another lady-love of the gay city gentleman, Hence, be looked bewildered when he saw her plainly. It was Viola Stowell! ‘Well, b’jinks! here’s a queer go!” So declared the Patrol, and bis belief did not waver as he watched. He was so situated that he could get near enough to overhear the conver- sation, and this be did not hesitate todo. There was a deal of pantomime to go with the rest. Harold had a very eager air, but when he would have clasped Viola’s hand, she drew back and avoided the warm reception. Then she stood looking at ber lover in silence, her face stern and accusing, her manner that of a tragedy queen, as it were, “Viola!” Harold exclaimed, ‘‘what in the name of the wonderful does this mean?” ** Don’t you know?” she asked, icily. ‘Indeed, I do not.” ‘*] think I can make it plain to you!” she re- marked, pointedly, ‘‘I bave called you here for that purpose; though it seems to me you, should have read the troth at tbe hotel,” ** How could [?” ‘*T refused to marry you, and that, too, after coming all the way from my home for that especial purpose. Did you ever know me to ‘be weak or vacillating? Did you ever know me to beerratic? Did you ever know me to act with- out just cause?” : ** No; and that is just why [am so much at fault. Viola, I have been about mad since last night! I have passed an utterly sleepless night, end by every device have tried to solve the mystery.” **T cannot believe you so ignorant as you pre- tend, though you may, indeed, be somewhat in the dark.” Flipper Flynn was baving nota little interest- ing occupation in watching these persons, Harold looked what he pretended to be—wholly bewildered and upset; while Viola maintained her air of stern composure—her accusing severity. **You will have to explain,” returned Dun- ming, helplessly; ‘‘ I cannot grasp a thing.” ‘Tt was a mistake to give me a room so near that of your brother. Does that convey any- thing to you?” “Nothing! Surely, Gilbert bas not given you cause for annoyance?” ‘‘He has not. You alone are responsible, Since you insist upon the explanation, you shall have it without delay. In brief, you lost all when I took the room which I had, It was, as you are aware, next to your brother’s, More than that, the walls were so thin that it was not a to overhear conversation from the other side, She paused as if the secret ought to be his, then, but he maintained his perplexed air, After @ pause she went on firmly: ‘“‘ Last evening I heard some one in the other room for some time, but gave the matter no at- tention until a second man entere},” | ‘*Ahal!” murmured Flipper Flinn, with a start, ** Well?” inquired Harold. “*T was not in the business of spying, and, as T said, I gave the matter no especial attention unutil the voices grew loud and angry—at least, one of them did, It was that of the visitor, He was angry, and he proceeded to heap some ac- I could not avoid hearing what followed. : “The visitor charged his companion with playing bim false in some matter of business; and this was what I made out: ‘They had been in a secret work together, and the visitor had paid the other one money. He had been ceceived; he had come for satis- faction. This be had failed to get. He had been roughly received; the satisfaction had been refused. He grew angry at this, and sud- denly cried out so distinctly that I could not avoid hearing bis words: “*T will force you to treat me fairly! You shall release your grip on my throat, or I'll ap- ply to the police!’ *** You dare not!’ was the cool reply. “*T dare, and will! You have asked too much of me; I will endure it no longer, Your de- mands mean ruin to me, if carried out, If,I ** €- You'll have to catch me, first.’ «That is no longer difficult, at last. Dare you deny that you are Harold Dunning?” For tho first time Harold showed confusion. ** What?” he exclaimed. “‘T thought that would touch you. Yes, sir; I heard all. I need not linger upon the words that followed, From words they came to blows, and I knew the visitor was in some way injured —I dare not think, I dare not surmise how!” For the first time, like ber companion, the girl’s mood shanged. Her head drooped; her voice trembled. She had borne up well, but there was a limit even to such endurance as hers. **Do you mean,” cried Herold, ‘' that the visi- tor accused the other man of being me?” “He did so accuse him.” “Surely, it was promptly denied?” ‘*No; the charge was admitted.” ** Admitted?” “ Yes,” “There igs some horrible mistake here, I give you my word of honor I was not in the room.” ‘But I heard your voice!” ** Asa party to the talk?” ‘*The man who was 1n the room when the visitor came; who held the conversation with him; who admitted he was Harold Dunning: who finally assaulted the visitor and, for all I know, seriously wounded him, was you, Harold Dunning! Do you suppose I could be mistaken in your voice?” The reply was certainly clear enough to be understood. Harold did understand, but he remained looking at Viola in a dazed way, Innocent or guilty, it was clear the blow fell heavily upon him, At last be found his voice again, ** Viola,” he cried, ‘‘I declare to you there is some horrible mistake, I \solemnly assert that I was not in the room at all. Nay, I swear to it! You saw meas soon as I came to the hotel; I saw you first of all, This is the sacred truth!” Sbe shook her head, ‘*T cannot doubt the evidence of my senses,” she replied, sadly. Harold was not ready to give up; he did not givenp. He began an earnest argument, using every plea he could bring to his aid. In the mean while Flipper Flynn did some thinking. He was better situated to understand the matter than any one else, and he could grasp what would have been obscure to the unintiiated, “Dun, ol’ chap, yer sins hev found ye out. Yer sweetheart is dead onter ye, an’ she ain’t yer sweetheart any more times, The little biz has gone back on ye; you must answer fer Roger, livin’ or dead!” CHAPIER Xt. A CLEW GAINED, FLIPPER FLYNN was not disposed to be un- charitable, bus he regarded the case as fully proven. Viola ought not to be mistaken in her lover’s voice, and her assertions were only in keeping with what bad been presented to the Patrol’s own observation, No doubt, he thought, the Dunning brothers had been equally concerned in the mysterious disappearance of Roger Hethington, ‘*Dan,” the listener soliloquized, ‘‘ you may as well let Viola go back ter the country, right away. You ain’t in it!” arold was not inclined to accept this view of the matter so readily, aud he continued to press his case until Viola broke into tears, This was not a point gained for him, however; she did not waver in the stand she had taken, That she had not conquered her love for him was evidenced by the fact that her grief was so deep, yet her resolution was unchangeable. At times Harold had hesitated, as if he had something on his mind, and he finally requested: ** Let me bring my brother before you as eyi- ence—’ ‘* No!” she answered, firmly; ‘‘ I have thought of that, and I can plainly see he would do all in his power to clear you. Better let it rest as it is. My own ears have given me evidence that eg are a man who lives by his wits; a shameful ife; the life of a confidence man, kidnapper, crook—I’'know not what it is called in slang of this great city, but the results are very clear tome. I see l have narrowly escaped marrying a criminal!” } “T swear to you it is not true! You are in error. I have no cause to blush for any act of mine—” “ Perhaps you have forgotten how to blush,” I know you, no more. J sent for you to meet me here be- cause I was willing to help hide your secret; because, for the sake of the days that are gone, I would not be the one to drag you to a felon’s dock. Even from my father I will keep the secret,” ‘*Yes,” agreed the Patrol, ‘‘she’ll keep it, Keep it? Why, great ginger! you couldn’t hire ber to goback on him. She’s got the nerve ter throw him over, but she likes him jest 2% wal ez ever!” She had made a movement to go, but Harold was not so easily to be shaken off. He contin- ued his pleading, his protestations of innocence, and Viola was not able to terminate the inter- view, Finally, he saw he was throwing his time away, and be suddenly threw his head back and exclaimed: **T will trouble you no more, now; but this you may depend upon: Even if you and I hever exchange a word, again, I am going to prove my innocence! I will settle this matter if it takes ten years to do it. 1 bave beenun- justly accused; [ am going to compel all who doubt my bonor to themselves admit it. I have no. more to say!” Flipper E)ynn scratched his head, *Indignant innocence! Is it real, or put on?” It was a question he could not answer, Harold did not seek to prolong the interview. He recovered his calmness as quickly as he had lost it, and offered to escort Viola home, but she declined the offer, They .separated and went their ways, where- upon Flipper also moved on, He felt that the case was shrouded in darkness, and did not see how he was to get light without a good deal of luck. Yet, he was nearer the solution than he suspected, His course took him past where he had left Betty Gray, and at that point he was surprised to see that small maiden come sailing out in such haste that ber hair flew wildly in the wind, “Oh! we want ter see you!” she exclaimed, “I'm yer huckleberry,” responded the Patrol, with dignity. ‘‘ In wot way kin I be of value?” ‘* Abe is here!” Abe? Who's be?” “Why, he’s Motber Jacobs’s husband,” ‘** Hil so it’s that fortunate gent, is it? Now, that’s encouragin’. How did ye get him—witha lasso?” ‘* He was passin’, an’ I called himin. He has been cast off, too.” ‘Mother Jacobs must be hevin’ a gineral house-cleanin’, But w’ot does it signerfy ter us? Anything promisin’?” ** Abe is clean down on’em an’ he will tell all he can.” **G ood fer Abrabam! hevin’ a chat with the good soul, Sunshine!” They entered the house, and Flipper was soon sitting in Mr, Jacobs’s presence, e was not an interesting man, in appearance. He was small of stature, thin of face, and shabby of dress; and his expression was a singular mixture ot false humility and natural viciousness. = Now, Abe,” directed Betty, ‘‘ yuu tell all you can. “T kin tell enough,” asserted Jacobs, peevish- ly, ‘‘l’ve been kicked around like a dog all my life, an’ now they’ve cast me off. I won’t bear any more,” “That’s the proper spirit,” asserted the Patrol, gravely. T shall take pleasure in Heave ahead, “A man is justified in bein’stern when he’s | drove ter the wall, ain’t he?” inquired Abra- ham, seeking for information. “Sure!” ‘* T’ve been misused, an’I don’t care who hears me sayit! They always thought l was no good; they never gave me any show at the plunder—I mean, they didn’t use me well,” amended Abe, with the haste of one who has been too frank. ““f was only a dog fer them, anyhow. They said I wa’n’t bright, but a phrenologist told me I had a fine head, My wife has always abused me; I’ve been only anerrand boy. Now, they’ve cast me off!” Her voice was shrill as he made his complaint, and he doubled up a little hand and shook a little fist in wrath, Unknown to him, he had given far more of his history than he had put in words. Flipper Flynn easily understood why he nad stood so poorly with his wife and the gang. Clearly, he was as vicious as any of the party, but Nature had not given bim an average share of brains and it would have been a rash person who would trast him with important secrets. It had been natural, but far from prudent, io sadly returned Viola, ‘Let us speak of this ; cast him off, |
Page 10
Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. his anger. **You’ve been misused shamefully, Mr, Ja- cobs!” he asserted; and then proceeded to sup- plement the statement with otber remarks which would please the listener, The artifice was snecessful, and Jacobs was soon of the opinion he had found those who could appreciate his ability. With this idea started if was not bard to get him talking on the matter nearest to the Patrol’s thoughts, In- troducing the subject guardedly, Abe was soon under way like a race-horse. ‘““My wife isa had woman, an’I don’t care who knows it!” he declared. ‘‘She has been the ally of crooks ever since I knew her—though, of course,” was the hasty addition, ‘I never approved of it. Yes, she isa bad woman!” e paused to shake his head dolefully over this fact; then went on less sorrowfully: * But you want to know ahout Isaac Moss, Well, I'll tell you all I can. You see, my wife has been the dive-keeper for the crooks she has been in with; an’ her two best bowers hev been Old Spicer, the tramp—be needn’t wear old clothes, ef he didn’t see fit ter—an’ a feller named Gilbert Dunning,” ** Wot of Harold Dunning?” asked Flipper. * Never heerd o’ him, but there are’men in the gang that I never bev seen. Wal, it was Gilbert who brought Isaac Moss there, He an’ Moss was rivals fer the band o’ some girl, an’ Gilbert found a way ter get rid o’ the rival, He give Isaac some drug tbat took his wits away, an’ brought him to our ranch. He’s been there ever sence,” ‘* Rivals, eh? Be you sure it wa’n’ta money affair?” “i Yes,” ‘* 'W’ot’s Isaac’s real name?” * Dunno!” * Lionel Hethington?” ‘* No; that’s another case.” “Tt is?” “Yes, Lionel Hethington is an Englishman, They hev got him, too; though 1 don’t know much about it. But Isaac ain’t no Englishman,” Now the fact was presented to his notice, the Patrol was obliged to admit, mentally, that this was probably the case. Certainly, isaac had none of the distinguishing traits of the foreigner; though Flipper had not paused to think of that before. He now blamed himself for the fact, Lyf had he not used his judgment in the case? * There was movey in the matter of Hething- ton,” went on the cast-off, ‘‘ an’ they hev got him shut up, somewhere, Thatis all I know about him. But it is Isaac we are speaking about. I know be was downed because he and Gilbert were rivals; that is all I do know.” ‘* Well, where is the den your wife an’ her pards have taken Isaac to?” asked Flipper, after @ pause, “I don’t know. They are bound I sha’n’t know, either. They’ve shook me; an’ they think oer, have got a clear coast,” e paused to shake bis fist tragically, giving the impression that he did not agree with this opinion; and Flipper went on skillfully, He found it hard to believe that Abe was wholly ig- norant of the new refuge of the gang, but Abe declared such to be the fact, and there was no reason for doubting bis good faith. It was plain that the Patrol must still rely upon himself; the way to success was still shrouded in darkness, “*One thing is clear,” he remarked to Betty, “we hev got ter rescue Isaac by hook or crook, an’ we’ll do it ef it takes a rib out o’ our anat- omy. You hear me?” CHAPTER XII. A MAN BACKS DOWN, ABE JACOBS was ina vindictive mood, and ready to catch eagerly at any plan which promised revenge upon his wife and her com- panions, Asa result, he also agreed to remain at the house for the time being, and give Flipper Flynn a chance to ‘‘see a friend,” who was, though Abe was not informed of the fact, De- tective Moran; after which, he averred, he was ready to proceed against the gang as zealously as the Patrol could desire. Knowing he was not so trustworthy as his eo, indicated, the boy asked Betty to keep im under her espionage, and try to prevent his departure from the house. The Flipper made another effort tosee Moran. It was as fruitless as the previous attempts. “Wal, this is getting stale!” was Flipper’s disgusted comment. ‘I ain’t goin’ ter monkey no more on these lines, Mister Moran kin run his engine; I'll run mine.” He was near the house to which Roger a 4 Pa The Patrol was prompt to take advantage of: Hethington had first conducted him, and'as he was passing, he instinctively glanced up at the windows, The result gave him surprise, Roger was there looking out calmly. ‘* Howlin’ hyenas!” The Patrol was astonished. He had given the Eaglisbinan up as a lost man: vet there he was, and nothing showed him to be ina bad state, physically or otherwise, Only for a moment did Flipper hesitate. Then he crossed the street and gave the bell a sharp ring. Nobody objected to his going up to his sometime employer’s room, and be soon found himself confronting Roger. ‘The latter did not appear surprised to see bim, ‘** So it’s you?” he saluted, ‘*Ez fer ez [ know, it ain’t nobody else, gen- eral. Kin you say the same fer R, Hethington, Esquire? B’jinks! I thought you was gone up the flume, sure!” ‘* My movements must have seemed strange to ” you. ** So they did, an’ I ain’t got over it, yet. I'm all primed fer a narrative of the facts, how- ever.” ‘When I went up to the room in the hotel I did notexpect to be gone overa few minutes, but I was delayed,” “* What by?” ‘* Business with a gentleman.” Flipper looked hard at the speaker, and saw unmistakable signs that he was not going to be taken into the secrets of the case, His hopes took a drop, and he dryly inquired: ** Did he shed your blood?” Roger became more interested, if appearances went for anything. ‘‘ Was there a disturbance over my disappear- ance?” ‘* Why do you think that?” ‘* When I arrived, the gevtleman was suffer- ing with an obstinate bleeding at the nose, Some of the effects were to be seen on the bed-spread. I hope it did not lead to any foolish misconstruc- tions?” “ Well, 1 thought you must ’a’ had a quarrel with the unknown gent.” ‘There was none; our interview was of the most friendly kind.” ** You skipped out kind o’ sudden.” ‘The gentleman thought he possibly could get some information for me, and we went out together. That was all there was of it, Really, I hope no old cranks made a row about it?” Roger looked hard at the Patrol. He evi- dently was somewhat concerned, and wished to know just what had occurred. On the other hand, Flipper was the most disgusted person in New York, at that moment. ** Ain’t you made any discoveries?” he asked. **No; and Iam tempted to give up the whole matter and go back to England,” **T wouldn’t, ef I’s you!” *“* Why not?” ‘* Because you'll only get some one hold o’ the case that won’t be lukewarm, like you! Roger, I’m dead onter you! You think ve kin set on yer chair an’ lie ter me like a 2:10 hossina free-fer-all, but you make a big error. Let up on it, Britisher! You didn’t meet no friends, up in the botel bedroom; you met an enemy, an’ you had a right-smart row with bim. Ob! I’m te you an’ Gilbert Dunning, Esquire. You t! Flipper flung out these words as if each one was a bullet, nor could he feel that bis ammuni- tion was wasted. Roger first looked startled; then bis face took on a peculiar pallor, ‘You talk at random,” he muttered, **T talk to the point, an’ don’t you forget it!” ‘* What do you claim to know?” **Enough so you’d better tell me more,” and ber: Patrol shut one eye and nodded emphati- cally. Hethington looked disturbed, but after medi- tating for a few moments, his courage returned, ida he saw how unlikely it was that Flipper could know enough of his case to place him in any position ditferent from that he now occu- pied, Pretending to smile with amusement, he answered: * “Don’t let your curiosity run away with you, ee lad, There is no secret about this matter, and— core your lost brother think so?” Flipper re- ‘“* Happily, my brother is found, all right.” ‘*Gammon!” “c What?” ‘* Ef you see fit ter throw me over, all well an’ good; but don’t ye think you kin set there an’ stuff me fer a clam, It can’t be did, general. You know, an’ I know, that Lionel Hethington is still in quod. Et would be sorter interestin’ : eli te sia a ace. < ee ale ty SRR EY hoa S e} weld hee ter know who his worst enemy is, but we ain’t - discussin’ of that point, now. W’ot we do say, mister, an’ we say it strovg, is: Don't get the idea in that British head ©’ yourn that you kin sell an Uncle Sam kid fer a blind man. See?” Flipper Fiynn was angry, and he made bis points with a realism that was very unpleasant to the gentleman from the British Isles, Roger fiushed deeply. “Your language is remarkable, and it is inso- lent. Such being the fact, I do not think it necessary for me to carry on the discussion. I have already paid you all I agreed to when you entered my service, but if you are disappointed at losing a situation, I will add toit, Here; take this bank-note, and let us part friends—” ‘Pocket yer cash, colonel! I ain’t built that way, b’jinks! I’m a fellow who can’t be bought, sold, give away nor taken in, Them is my sen- timents!” Flipper arose in offended majesty and glow- ered upon Roger like a Bowery tragediav. He was much disappointed that his hold on Hething- ton was lost, he also felt offended that any one should think he was to be deceived so easily. He went to the door and there paused and gave Mr. Hethington a further illustration of Bowery Stage cffects, The Englishman was troubled by this rebellion. He tried to smovth the matter over, but did it in a way which did not improve the situation. He did not offer to tell what bad taken place since he saw the Patrol, and it was plain he would not do so, Flipper let him talk for a while; then abrupt- ly announced: “ce Tm off hd With this statement he marched out of the house, and Roger did not see fit to try and stop him, The Englishman was troubled, but he underrated the boy, and did not suspect his capacity for barm, lipper went out with fong and heavy steps, ** Dumped!” he uttered, tragically. ‘‘ I hev got the g. 6., which is grand bounce. Yes; an’ l’ve got one thing more: I know, now, that my first impressions of Roger were correct, Jest w’ot is cbewin’ of him 1 don’t know, but he ain’t no angelic cherub, Has he formed a _ union with them who was hisenemies? Looks like it, but in any case, l’m glad I ain’t in his brother’s shoes, The other Hethington bids fair ter get did up - Hello! who’s that?’ Old Spicer, Say, I’m goin’ ter foller Ill hive him!” the worst way, the tramp, b’jinks! that feller ter his den. CHAPTER XIII. FLIPPER FLYNN'’S PERIL, THERE was a good deal of spite, as well a® detective zeal, in the Patrol’s decision, for he had not recovered from the shock Hethington had given him; but it was all detective caution as he fellin behind the ragged member of Mother Jacobs’s gang. : Old Spicer seemed to be in an unusually cbipper moxd, He whistled and hummed svatches of songs as he went; and in every way acted like a man whose conscience and digestion were alike in the best of order, For these things Flipper Fiynn cared nothing, but he was bound to bring mutters to a crisis if such a thing was possible, — / Old Spicer did not change bis general direction once, and in due time he entered a bouse whicb was evidently his home, whether the gaug bung out there or not, tee, ‘Dusty, musty, rusty an’ sdspicious!” com- mented Flipper. “Old cbap,.kin you get in there?” He made a feint to pass by in an innocent manner, keeping his eyes open for all chances, and be was not disappointed, The basement door was ajar; more than that, he could see no one near it, Acting on a sudden impulse, be walked boldly down the steps. ‘*‘T’s touch an’ go, old chap; you don’t ,want ter get ketched in here. Keep an eye out! The timely warning did not prevent him from entering the door, Be gazed around sharply, No one was visible, but from the next room, the kitchen, it seemed, came the sound of voices, ‘* B’jinks! I must see ’em!” With him to resolve was to act, and he crept noiselessly down the ball. View of the kitchen did not exhilarate him to any great dezree; be could see no one there except two women who looked like servants. They were doing the housework, and gossiping as they worked, “ Pretty times these are!” observed one, ‘ We are liable ter bring up in Sing Sing yet.” ‘“*T don’t like it. i “Nor I; but we get paid for the risks we take, I’m willin’ ter venture it, ain’t you?” ‘Sure, sure! We're in for it, and there’s bo
Page 11
backin’ down on my part. In fact, we can’t | back down; we have got so deep in the mire we | must keep on, anyhow,” 7 ‘*Tt’s all right, too. I'm satisfied. Keep yer eye always open, Meg; the young feller is a prisoner up-stairs, Should he get away, it’s good-by ter us!” “Sure! But he won’t get away; there’s no traitors in this house, an’ we all are on the watch,” At this point Flipper Flynn heard a sound be- hind bim, which drew his attention at once. It | was that of footsteps; a sound he bad occasion | to look upon with fear, He turned quickly, and was just in time to see a man emerge from the covered way at the foot of the stairs, and go to the outer door. Reaching that point, he calmly | turned the key, and the Patrol suppressed an in- clination to whistle in dismay. His retreat had been cut off! The man then entered the front room, Flip- per meditated. He was now confident he had again run the gang to earth, and that Isaac | Moss was in the house! This was an important point gained, but one other person was there, | also—tbe Patrol, himself. ‘*Shall I go up the stairs an’ take a sneak, or shall I waltz up ter Isaac’s room an’ hustle him out? He may be stronger, now, than he was then, an’ the thing might be possible, Still, I don’t guess you want ter he too funny, old chap. My advice is, skip while you kin!” He proceeded to attempt this plan, though the chances would have impressed an ordinary oul son as very unpromising. Luck attended him at the start, however; he passed the front part of the hall without attracting the attention of him who had entered the frontroom, Then he stole lightly up to the “ parlor floor,” The hall was unoccupied, Success seemed certain, but he had a shock as he laid his band on the knob. The front door was locked! ** Howlin’ hyenas! I’m in fer it!” His lugubricus comment was not an exagger- ation, With the way of escape cut off it seemed his troubles were only just beginning, While he hesitated there was a stir in the par- lor, and he believed some one was coming out, His wits raoved quickly. He turned and ran up the next flight, two steps ata time. On reacb- ing the top he paused to look back, What he saw showed how wisely he had acted in moving so promptly. Mrs, Jacobs and Gilbert Dunning were there! ‘* lve got em!” Flipper muttered, exultantly. “Yes; an’ b’jinks! they've got me! It’sa tie all ’round, but I guess I’m worse tied than any- body else. Old chap, keep yer brain-dish clear, or you'll be a done-up kid!” At this moment the bell rung, and Gilbert opened the door with the air of a man who feels sure he knows who has applied. The result did not disappoint him; he cordially greeted a man who had the natural marks of a rascal all over him, They began to talk, but not in voices audible to the Patrol. The latter improved the chance to look around and find out his exact situation, _ It was what was to be expected, for the house ‘was like all of itsclass. Heshook his head. * Don’t see no way ter get out only ter fly, an’ I ain’t got my wings with me. Old chap, you've got ter saw wood an’ say nothin’!” The trio below suddenly turned towarfl the stairs, and the Patrol hurried into the reom nearest him, It overlooked the street, and he was of tbe opinion that the enemy could not ee safely do injury to him while he was so well situated for giving the alarm, ““Mebbe the fun’s only jest beginnin’, old chap,” he muttered; and then, seeing the door to the next room had a transom over it, he mounted to a chair to get a look that way. The first glance made him start, Isaac Moss owas there! The prisoner looked none the worse for his recent experiences, but his expression was gloomy. Flipper had notime to investigate further. Steps close at band warned him to save himself. He looked around hastily, Only one way was presented to his notice: the generous-sized table had a cover which hung almost to tie floor, It was a timely refuge, and he gave one dive and was out of sight, Three persons entered. They were Gilbert, Old Spicer and the new-comer, All sat down near the concealed Patrol, who gazed at them with a good deal of uneasiness, Dunning was not of repulsive appearance, and Spicer was only the typical tramp; but he who had come last was of different mold, Flipper thought he never had seen a mure vicious and murderous ‘ face. It served to show him plainly what com- pany he was in, “Now, Blogg,” began Gilbert, ‘‘I think we need not waste time in getting down to busi- ness?” ‘**Not a bit,” returned Blogg, in a hoarse voice, ‘*T have sent for you—” ‘*T know; ter do the feller up!” ‘** Plainly, that is it.” ‘*T knew that before. bush! You want the feller done up! out yer plan.” ‘*This is delicate work!” observed Gilbert, nervously, ** Not a bit; every-day affair.” ** It may be for you, but is not forme. Don’t think me a softy,” the speaker burriedly, and apologetically added: ‘‘I have done my share of delicate work, but notin thisline, See?’ ** Yes; I see you are nervous: but you will get used ter it when you hev donea few jobs of the kind. Gilbert shivered, It was plain that he had not advanced far enough in villainy to match Mr. Blogg’s calm unconcern, and be shrunk from the deed be had himself planned. Blogg rolled a chew of tobacco placidly in his big mouth and added: * Ain’t we losin’ time?” ‘“We are,” Gilbert agreed, with a start. ** Well, sir, the man we are to speak of is in the next room. He wii] not bea bard person to manage, for he is so enfeebled with disease that he cannot even stand.” Ht ica keer ef he’s as strong as Golias! Talk on It was clear that the speaker did not approve of slow work, and Dunning took the hint and became terse enough for the occasion, “‘T have an enemy in there, I was a fool ever to take him; now I have him, he is a millstone on my bands. I dare not let him go. Hearing from Old Spicer that you were accustomed to help folks out, I want you to do so by me.” ‘Tt shall be done ter-night!” “ce How ” “How? Why, jest walk inan’ stampon him!” “Do you think you can arrange it so we shall not be found out?” ‘*No danger, at all. Ez fer gittin’ him away, Ill hev my wagon at the door in good time, You see, when I doa job1l always employ the same driver, It’s business way, an’ it’s safest, too. I hev got this thing reduced to a science, The re- sult is, no slip-ups; no squealin’, no perleece no- sin’ around. Yes; it’s a mere business, an’ ’m prond 0’ the way | hev it figgered down!” The atrocious scoundrel’s manner bore witness to his words, and even hardened Old Spicer moved uneasily in his chair. Pride in such a trade was a horror, And Flipper Flynn thought the whole matter, men and ali, was off the same piece. What would be his fate if he was discovered? CHAPTER XIV. DARING THE DOOM, THE three men continued to go over the de- tails until the whule affair was arranged to their satisfaction, At one o’clock in the night the wagon was to be at the door, end the burden was to be ready for it! Gilbert did not get more nerve as the discussion progressed, but Blogg promised to take charge of the final act, and dis- pose of Isaac Moss in a neat and business way. Flipper Flynn found it hard to credit that any one could be quite so villainous, but he had Bloge’s own assurance to prove it. The fellow intended to dispose of Isaac as lightly as if that unfortuvate was only a dog. ‘Lucky I come here,” thought the Patrol. see it’s lucky—ef 1 don’t get done up, my- se Gilbert continued nervous, showing that he had outstripped his nerve in this last step in crime, “*Can’t you rush the growler?” asked Blogg, presently, Dunning thought he could, and Old Spicer was sent out for that purpose. Mr. Blogg grew more interested, He drew up to the table, thus placing himself within a few inches of the Patrol. He had a keen taste for beer, and proved it when the article arrived. He drank copiously, and his mood grew jovial. **T ain’t goin’ ter leave here until the fun is over!” he declared, “I like here, an’ I like your company. Bring paper an’ ink, an’ I'll write ter my man so he’l] hev the wagon ’round in time. This’ll give us a chance ter paint the town red while we wait.” Gilbert did not look particularly pleased over the plan, but be could not object. He had ‘ ‘ Don’t beat around the Well, lay Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol.3 Dene ee ————————eeee eee | 11 placed himself in Blogg’s power, and must make the best of bis company. The latter went for the writing materials as if to a personal encoun- ter with an enemy, but managed to write the letter after a fashion. When it was done, he geve all his time to enjoying the beer. His companions bad to keep bim company still—something which was very much to Old Spicer’s taste, but severe upon Gilbert. The latter was alreudy experiencing the results of having sold bimself to a bigger villain than he ever had dared to be, himeelf. Flipper Flynn began to find his position un-~ pleasant. He could not move about at all, and this, a trifle at the start, finally grew painful. He found aches and paius creeping into bis bones, and there was no prospect of relief. Outside, darkness bad fallen, Lamps were lighted, and the evening began to wearon, It. was, however, still a long way to the bour set. for Blogg’s work. That person grew somewhat hilarious. He rose and executed a clumsy dance, after which he remarked that he saw no reason why he should take life too laboriously. “*I’'m goin’ ter lay down an’ be happy,” he as-— serted, and at once put his plan into execution. Disdaining the offer of the lounge, he tipped bis chai: up at an angle and used it for a re- clining place. This did tot interest eitber Gil- bert or Bid Spicer, but it had a striking interest. for Flipper Flynn. The change of position not. only brought Bloge nearer to the Patrol, but they were now on the same level. The fellow’s back was toward Flipper, but he had only to turn bis bead slightly and he would see the now- demoralized spy. This he was liable to do at any time. He reached over his head and played with the cloth of the table. As it swung back and forth it each time struck the spy. He gained an opinion of Blogg which momentarily in- creased in severity. He longed to come out of ambush and give the ruffian a specimen of justice, but decided to defer hostilities until a more favorable time. Old Spicer fell asleep in bis chair, Gilbert moved uneasily, and wished for the snd. Oni7 Blogg was calmand content, There was no limit to bis erratic notions. ‘““Why shouldn’t we get that job out 0’ cas way?” he finally asked. ‘*‘Hev we got ter wait. fer the wagon ter come? Wal, I sbould say not. Le’s run it off!” : ‘* tad we better?” returned Dunning, nervous- Vi Why not?” ** Well, 1 don’t know.” “Nor me! Le’s git a move on!” ‘*Old Spicer is asleep.”. ** Let him sleep; we don’t want him!” Blogg scrambled to his feet. Now the notion bad struck him be was eager to proceed, and just enough under the influence of liquor to be deaf to the wishes of others. He faced Gilbert. like ademon brought up from some nameless region; while the master of the place brushed his band nervously across bis forehead, There was: perspiration there which was not occasioned by atmospheric heat. **] don't know!” he muttered. **Do ye want the job done, or not?’ Blogg spoke sharply, and it was enough to recall Gilbert’s former frame of mind, He remembered that Isaac Muss stood in the way of his pet plans; he bardened his heart. ‘* Your way is best, no doubt. It shall be as you say. Give me your instructions; they shal be followed to the letter.” Blogg chuckled, as if he had won a great vic- tf et a piller,” he directed, ‘‘ There's nothin’ like it fer quick an’ silent work, I'l? wait fer you in the bal],” He moved tbat way, and this time Gilbert did not hesitate. Both passed out, leaving Old Spicer asleep in bis chair, The door had hardly closed upon them before Flipper Flynn was out of his ambush, * Howlin’ hyenas! but ain’t I got ter git a move on!” was bis excited exclamation. It was clear that only quick work would save Isaac Moss, He could not be reached by way of the ball, for Biogg was lingering there. What other means existed? The Patrol’s geze wandered to the transom. It was unusually large, and he felt sure he could pass through it, if left alone. Would Old Spicer condescend to sleep on? Flipper sprung forward and reached the connecting doors, Previous investigation had shown theny to be locked, so he lost no time there. He wheeled a chair up to the point and leaped into it. This brougbt him to the level of the tran~
Page 12
(i PaO cake: St i2 som, and he calculated the chances with steady nerve, ‘*T kin make it!” he decided, He grasped the transom and drew himself up. ‘There was a period of doubt and uncertainty. Ri ‘was no easy matter to pass through, and even if he accomplished it, Old Spicer might awaken at the most inopportune moment. Flipper had only one chance, bowever, and he took it. He suc- ceeded in gaining the desired height, and then he squeezed through and dropped lightly on the other side, } Isuac Moss had been sleeping, but he awaken- ed, now. He looked startled, but when he recog- nized the Patrol, bis old, peculiar lightness came ‘to the front. ** Hallo, you!” was bis matter-of-fact greeting, ** Tsaac, they’re comin’!” Flipper de¢lared. “ WwW ho?” “The assassins, an’ they’re goin’ ter do you up! Isaac’s mood changed, He never would have een in a mood of levity while in that house it his mind had been in its normal condition; but ‘the last startling announcement was enough to do away with even unnatural lightness. He started half way from his chair. * What?” he exclaimed, ** No use 0’ mincin’ matters, mister, You are ter be done up, right off, unless you git a move Ov. “ 7 ” ate you a plan? “Then why are you here? Would you go\to ruin with me?” ‘*B’jinks! I ain’t goin’ tersee a feller git done fer, an’ I set down like a clam an’ do nothin’, { know as well as anybody that we are ina Yizen fix, but we'll sink or swim tergether, Isaac!” **'Your stand is brave and noble, but I am really sorry you have sacrificed yourself, for me. What can we do?” With the question thus plainly put, the Patrol triel to get the proper answer, True, what could they do? He looked anxiously at the com- panion of his misfortunes, “Can’t you walk, at a pinch?’ he demanded, **Give me your arm,” **Tt was done, and Jsaac made a brave effort, but he bad to give it up. Hesunk back with a groan. “Useless! Iam as helpless as a child,” “T can’t carry you out.” ** Boy, do not think of me. There is no reagon . why you should go to ruin with me; it will do me no good, and you will only throw your life away. Don’t linger here, Goi—getaway while ‘you can. Go! go!” It was a manly appeal, but he was speaking ito one as stout-hearted as himself. Flipper did not waver, ‘We arein fer itin company. Nary a desert will I be guilty of. I don’t see the way clear, but we'll fight it out on thisline. Ha! is that them a-comin’?” There were footsteps in the hall, and some one began to fumble at the door. Isaac groaned aloud, ‘* Why didn’t you go while there was a chance? Now it is too late, May Providence have mercy on you, brave boy; I am worse than helpless, Ah! they come!” ‘ CHAPTER XV, THE MAN-SLAYERS, Tse door opened and a man entered. He was a stranger to Isaac, but not-to Flipper Flynn, It was Blogg. At this crisis Gilbert Duuning had no wish to appear; he had kept back, aod the human brute was alone. He looked the character he had assumed, His evil face was full of « light which would have made the stoutest-hearted tremble, and in bis hand be bore the pillow with which he was to end the life of the unfortunate prisoner, Isaac looked for Flipper, and felt a thrill of relief as he noticed that the boy had seized the ‘chance to get out of sight. It was Isaac’s most earnest prayer that he would keep thus concealed. Then he thought of bimself. Blogg was advancing, and the pil- dow was held well forward. “Who are you?” the prisoner demanded, ina whisper, Blogg smiled easily. ** A friend o’ yourn.” “*T don’t know you.” ** You'll know me better after a bit!” The brute chuckled, as if there was some good joke in the matter, and all the while he was sidling toward Isaac. : ‘‘ Keep off!” the latter exclaimed, with as much voice as he could command, ‘“ Keep away from me!” “Take it easy, cherub! You an’ me needn't hev a bit 0’ trouble; there ain’t any reason why we should,” All the while he continued his sideways ad- vance, his eyes now gleaming with a most start- ling light. So might a cat creep upon its prey, but no comparison could make plain the glitter of those awful eyes, At the beginning, Isaac had half-started up, but he now sat motionless, He did not even think of trying to escape; his every sense was numbed save that of terror. ‘*Man,” he spoke, still in that husky whisper, ** would you do murder?” ‘**T'll show ye, my little one!” Grinning, to show his amusement, Blogg leaped forward, Now, the pillow was held up, where he could readily cast it around Isaac’s bead and shut off both outery and life, and the deed would quickly have been done, but at the very moment of success there was a check to proceedings, Blogg reeled back from a heavy blew and nearly fell to the floor. Flipper Flynn bad disappeared for the time, but be bad not deserted bis friend, He had watched all, and bis breath bad come and gone in a way as if it was about to fail him entirely. Then be sprung from the cover of the bed; he leaped upon the man-slayer like a panther, Blogg reeled back from that stroke; then, recov- ering his balance, stood gazing in dumfounded wonder at the person who had dared to step be- tween him and his prey. And that person a boy! As he realized that fact his stupefaction passed away, but his wonder only grew. A boy! And he had dared to come in his way! Blogg brushed his hand across his face to assure his own amazed self that hesaw aright. Yes; and there was the boy confronting bim in a cool and resolute way. ‘‘Say,” the roffian finally found breath to utter, ‘‘ What do you think ye’ve cone?” ‘‘T’ve got one on you, mister!” the Patrol re- torted. ‘* You can’t go on with no sech work.” ‘* Kid, who be you?” ‘¢ Never mind who I be.” “Pll call the boss—” ** Nobody here is my boss, I sorter run on my own hook, yesee, An’ jest now, my way runs contrary ter yours, See?” ’ ‘*'You’ve come between me an’ my work. You’ve dared ter ifterfere with me, an’ [Pil make you sweat fer it, ef you don’t take a tumble right away. Get out o’ here!” ‘“Nary get, mister! I’m here ter stay, an’ don’t you ferget it. You needn’t ruffls up yer back ter me, neitber, fer I won’t scare fera cent. DPve got you foul!” Just what he meant Flipper did not know. He had taken the risks and secured a reprieve for Isaac, but no one was more plainly aware that he was perfectly helpless. He could not fight Blogg; be could not even resort to flight, for Isaac was not in condition to accompany him. He was keeping up the talk, but in a frame of mind which had no ray of light, The worst was to be expected, \ Blogg was beginnirg to recover from his amazement, He did not know bis opponent, nor did he have cause to suspect him of being an in- truder, Of course he thought a regular inmate of the house was before him, but it enraged him that any one should dare to act such a part, ** Kid,” he spoke, in a grating voice, ** get out 0’ here, or ll walk all over you. Get!” He advanced upon the Patrol, but the boy did not retreat, This would have been useless; be might as well stand his ground, now, “Stop!” he commanded, deeply, ‘ You are coutemplatin’ a work you ougbt ter be ashamed on, .This man is so weak be can't standup. He is that feeble a child might boast over bim. I tell ye, mister, you would be a coward ter touch him—you, a man in all yer strength, Don’t ye dare ter touch him!” “Say!” exclaimed Blogg, amazed again, “ you ain’t one o” Dunning’s men, you ain’t!” ‘‘Ym thankful ter say I ain’t, No, sir; I’m off a different piece.” “Then you’re a blamed spy! I doubted ye from the first; now I hev ye foul, You're a spy, an’ by the fiends! I’ll do ye up!” Blogg was not half so far-seeing as he pretend- ed, but he wanted an excuse to vent his passions upon the boy, and he had found it. Once more he advanced, and Isaac broke his silence, ‘“*Go; go! Save yourself, while you can, Don’t delay a moment! Go!” **Not much! We sink or swim tergether|” Sturdy as ever the Patrol made the assertion, but he had time only for Blogg, now. Once more the ruffian was advancing upon him, The Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. SO ERE ET ETAL CELL SNEL ES SESE S SSS FUE EME 2! SP. ESAS, OR EA OT pillow was again the offensive weapon, and with it he meant to smother out the boy’s life, Flipper had picked up a fire-shovel; the onl visible weapon, but a very poor one, after all. He watched Blogg’s wildiy-glittering eyes and waited for the attack. Suddenly the slayer leaped forward. Flipper struck fiercely with his novel weapon, but in vain, Blogg was an old hand at the busi- ness; he dodged the blow neatly, and wrested the shovel away without difficulty. Then he seized the Patro} and bent him over his knee, ‘*Oh! you like this biz, do you?” he growled. ‘* Well, you shall have yer fill!” He tried to bring the pillow around and press it over Flipper’s face, but the latter suddenly and neatly writhed out of his grasp. He was almost clear of the assassin when Blogg managed to seize him by the foot. Flipper was drawn back, and the man’s hand sought his mouth, Driven to bay, the Patrol grappled; he made a great effort and tripped his enemy neatly. They fell together, but Blogg managed to keep his bold, Tben he wound bis arms around the sligbter form and contracted his hold. ** 1] fix you dut!” be hissed, Isaac Moss ufitered a loud cry, ‘* Help! belp!” he shouted, ‘Do with meas you will, but don’t make another suffer for me! Save this child!” He had no very clear ide1 of what he aimed to do, but tbe appeal rose with the force of one thoroughly in earnest, Flipper was struggling energetically, hut in vain, Blogg forced him down to the position be aspired to bave bim in, and then panted: ‘Tve got ye, now!” He did not have him; the Patrol was fighting with surprising skill, and once more he partially broke the hostile hold, He could not, however, get away entirely, and the end was near. Blogg swung bim over his knee, and witb an exultant laugh, lay bold of his neck. ‘* This settles it!” was his fresh cry of triumph. Flipper was belpless, at last. . Too proud to beg for mercy he awaited the end. Blogg compressed bis throat, Just then there was a busky cry at the door;a cry so strange that even the slayer ceased bis work and looked up, ‘There stood Gilbert. Dun- ning, pale and trembling, bis hand outstretched toward Blogg. ‘* Stop!” be gasped, Eh” questioned the slayer. * Lot the boy alone!” * What's that?” *T tell you to let him alone!” Silentlv the parties to the scene gazed at each other. .Gilbert was the one most moved, His face was still pale, and be held to the side of the door as if his strength was not sufficient to sup- p rt bim, A more surprising interruption could not have come, “T don’t know ez I heerd right,” remarked Blogg, in bewilderment, ‘* You are to let that boy alone!” * But he wouldn't let me at the other feller,” “T haveseen all, heard all, I know how it was as wellas you. Weneed notargue the mat- ter further. The boy must not be harmed!” ‘“‘ Begad! ef you want the man silenced, the kid goes, too! 1 won’tdo a job an’ hev a witness who will most likely swear my life away, the first chance he gets, You hear me?’ “Rest easv: itis not asked of you. The man, too, is to be left in safety, Your work is done.” Gilbert was recovering from bis trembling fit, and his voice began to ring out clearly. He had the air of one who had lost av important ave but, mingled with it, there was an air of relief, “An’—an’ you ain't goin’ ter—goin’ ter bev the feller done up at all?” ; Blogg asked the question as if something was the matter with his power of speech, He was amazed and angry. f ; “You can go at any time, sir. You will be fully paid for your work and trouble; further than that you need not be concerned. The man will not be injured!” “Well, youre a clam! Clam? You're a blamed fool! You're a howlin’ idiot! Drat yer life! don’t yer know this may send us all ter the jug fer nobody knows how many years? You howlin’ idiot, you!” , Mr. Blogg could not find words in ny to express his feelings properly, so he relieved his mind by swinging his arms about wildly and grimacing in a way which was grotesque, Gilbert did not change bis decision, [t was not easy to get the slayer quieted down, but he did this at Jast and conducted him ont of the room, In the ball he doubtless bad orders to wait, for Gilbert returned to the prisoners,
Page 13
Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. His expression promised notbing favorable, ‘* Men,” he spoke, abruptly, ‘* you have looked your last on the light of day!” ** How’s that?” Flipper asked, a little at fault. “You have won one point, here, but it is less a gain than you may think, You are life pris- oners; you have looked your last on the world!” ‘* W’ot new scheme hey you got?” *“*T cannot recede from the position I have taken. I have risked all and must take the con- sequences, It is not in me to be an assassin, but further than that I am as much your foe as ever. Your lives are saved—at least for the 7 but you will both remain my prisoners, ou, boy, have seen fit to go against me in my plans. The result of it will beseen. I am going to make you a prisoner, too, and you will be well taken care of.” ‘Mister, you hev done one good deed ter- night; why not keep it up an’ set us free?” **T refuse to talk with you. Be still!” He stepped to the door and called for Old Spicer, who came promptly, and they conferred in low tones, Neither of the prisoners inter- rupted, They felt it would be useless to try and move them, and they had to be as near satisfied as was possible, Flipper Flynn, however, was not in a down- hearted mood, He felt he had won one glorious victory already; he could afford to be content where he could not better matters. He lvoked at Issac and nodded in a confident way, and the original prisoner was as grateful as a man naturally would be when bis life had thus been saved, The captcrs soon settled upon a plan. Old Spicer went out. When he returned he bore a rope, and this he proceeded to attach to the chandelier in an ingenious way. When it was done, Flipper was led to the spot and firmly ep a novel device making the restraint, per- ect, ‘* Here you stay to die of old age,” Gilbert an- nounced, pitilessly, Naas CHAPTER XVI. SOMEBODY IN DISGUISE, TWO persons came along the street. One was & woman of rather shabby appearance and ec- centrically-made garments; the other was a girl of diminutive stature. In the latter person we recognize Betty Gray. ** Ain’t you afeerd?’ she asked. ‘*'No,” her companion answered; ‘I am afraid of nothing.” “You don’t look so brave.” ‘*T was not, a week ago!” ** You feel this bad, Miss Viola—” “Hush!” was the quick warning. ‘ Don’t speak that name again, Remember, I am only Zvipba, the wanderer.” “TI won't ferget again.” “This is the house. Now for a bold push. Be calm, Betty; I don’t believe you are in any danger, and if you are, they certainly would not do anything serious to one as young as you, ‘Guess you don’t ‘zactly know ’em, but I ain’t goin’ ter git skeered, You see if Ido!” There was a spice of defiance in Betty’s voice, showing that she resented the aspersion, as she understood it, upon her bravery, and she rung the bell with a steady hand, The door was soon opened, and Mother Jacobs stood before them. ‘* Betty Gray!” she cried; ‘you here? Why, child, where have you been? We thought you was lcst.” Betty had her opinion of the sincerity of this greeting, but she did not see fit to quarrel with other Jacobs when her chief ambition was to ‘be well received by the woman. “Well, I sorter got strayed away,” she mut- tered, ** but I ain’t lost, as you kin see,” ‘* Was it the fault o’ that cabman? I have all alone stuck to it that twas; an’ I’ve done all I ac ter find you ag’in. Did that rascal git you ost?’ There was sincerity in the woman’s voice, and Betty began to waver in her belief that sbe had been deliberately ‘cast off by the gang. From the first there bad been wonder that Mother Jacobs should wish to lose one who had been such a bard-working, uncomplaining slave, and Betty was impressed with the belief that the sep- aration might, indeed, have been due wholly toa -cabman who had been paid for bis work, and had no check on his impulses. Ow, however, Mother Jacobs suddenly gave _ attention to Betty’s companion, s Who is this?’ she asked, doubtfully, It’s & lady who has been kind to me, an’ kept me, an’ she has been teaching me ter be 4 clair- voyant doctor,” sudden change came over theold woman's rc face. She dropped a deep courtesy, and re- marked: ‘Your servant, ma’am!” ‘*Daughter, be of good cheer!” spoke Viola, in a deep voice, ‘ All is well with thee, for thy star is burning brightly.” “Praise Providence!” uttered Jacobs, de- voutly. ** The unseen powers know their faithful ones, They have them in tbeir keeping—yea, always!” “ An’ I am one of ’um?” ** Thou art one!” ‘Glory! glory!” Mother Jacobs seemed delighted beyond meas- ure; sbe took on a rapt expression, and was forgetful of all the practical things of life. It was no chance hit that bad brought them into her good graces, While with her, Betty had learned many things more than she had been given credit for being capable of takingin. No one had ever said in plain words that the old woman was particularly susceptible to sbams, things mysterious and things obscure, yet Betty, as observant as she was silent, had learned the points of Mother Jacobs’s character well. It was this which had brought them there so fully prepared to work on ber weaknesses. : i will be going, now,” added Viola, care- essly. “No, no!” Mother Jacobs implored. ‘Ef you see any good in me, don’t desert me so soon, Them like you are always welcome at my home,” " ‘*T suppose I might tarry for awhile.” **Come in; come in, ef you will. You honor Come; you are very welcome, I don’t know your name,” “T am Madam Zylpha, clairvoyant, seventh daughter of a seventh son, far-seer and natural pb come r t was an imposing load for one person to carry, but Viola bore ber assumed bonors with due grace and dignity, and Jacobs was more than ever impressed. She eagerly asked the great. woman in, and proceeded to make her comfortable. Self-styled Zylpha and Betty were ina state of expectancy. ‘Thus far their plot had succeed- as well as any one couid dare to hope, even with their knowledge of their companion’s weak- nesses, Tbey were in the house, and received with warmth where they would bave been shut out entirely bad the truth been known, They were conducted to the dining-room and a chair was set for the honored guest. Betty was forgotten, entirely. Now, tney had not come there merely to see Mother Jacobs, either to play upon her credulity or otherwise to make a trivial gain. Instead, they had business of vast importance, in their opinion, It was for this they had planned with care, that Viola bad assumed a disguise, that she had claimed greatness in a line of which she had possessed no knowledge until Betty bad ores to let drop the secret of the old woman’s obby. Unknown to any one else, they had come into danger, to the company of desperate characters, And their motive—it was no idle one, Jacobs had much to say, and she was humored to her fill. In return, the great Zy]pha told her of great good that was coming to her—when, it was not exactly clear, The first step was taken; they were under the roof; and after that it was not hard to so work upon the hostess that, of her own free will, she invited Zylpha to become her guest for a time. The chance was not refused, Tbus they entered upon a work which might bring ruin to them. Mother Jacobs was not a person of unlimited leisure, and after a time sbe had other duties to perform, but Zylpha showed no inclination to make free with the bouse. She kept in the kitchen; her behavior was beyond censure, When supper had been eaten Jacobs had more time, and there was another period given up to humoring ber fancies, Night fell, too, and the hour drew near when something must be done if the plans of the adventurous two amounted to anytbing. They could not bope to remain a very long while in such company and not meet with or gehem good as Viola’s disguise was believed to Betty had sunk into ber old round of labor and was fully occupied, She used her senses of investigation as well as possible, and discovered that there was a locked room on the floor above; a fact she succeeded in making known to Viola, but she could penetrate no further, To enter this room became Viola’s ambition. As the night grew older the elder visitor claimed to be weary and was given a chance to liedown, This enabled her to be left alone and she began to scheme anew, There were men ip the house, This she had been told by Betty, and there was other evidence to that effect. If she encountered them, her chances bade fair to melt away like dew. She was ina little rocm off from the hall. When the proper time seemed to bave arrived, she rose and left the place. With lightsteps she ascended to the floor above, Pausing she listened with fast-beating heart, No one was astir, as far as she could discover. Sbe went on. It was not hard to locate the room Betty had mentioned, but, as was to be expected, she found the door locked. Turning, she passed into the adjoining room, Only the double doors were in her way, then, and they were secured by a bolt. She laid her hand on the obstacle and paused. What lay beyond? She had her opinion, but it might all be wrong. In any case, it was danger. The bolt was pushed with trembling fingers. She opened the door, No light was burning beyond, and, at first, she could see absolutely nothing, Then her eyes be-- came accustomed to the gloom, and sbe made out a form in the corner—some one occupying a big chair. She advanced with wavering cour- age. The person was looking at her, and she thought his manner enougl-like that of a pris— oner for her to hazard speech. ‘** Who are you?” she asked, tremulously, ‘* Madam,” was the very polite reply, ‘‘if you will answer your own question, I will give you my interest in the first gold-mine I find!” “Sir? I don’t understand.” P “Nor {. Madam, I salute you! Great minds run in the same channel.” ** Are you a prisoner here?” “*T bave no doubt of it, Yes; as farasmy knowledge goes, lam a prisoner. Consider the fact proven!” This erratic speech swept away her last doubts; and she eagerly inquired: ** Are you Isaac Moss?” “Regard that matter as proven, though I don’t know a ein. J about it. I am called Issac Moss, beyond doubt; who I am, I don’t know.” ‘*T bave come to rescue you!” “ Ah! that’s to the point!” ‘* Have you yet recovered so you can walk?” ‘“* Unfortunately, I have uot. I am still @ wreck, But who are you who bas undertaken the dangerous task of getting me away? I tell you fairly that it is death to those who gointoit. if you are thinking of pitting your solitary strength agaiust that of my foes, stop while you can! I say, itisdeath! Keepaway! The only hope is to go to the police. This I beg you to do, not so much for my sake as for that of another who bas become involved in my desperate fortunes, Go! Go to the police, or go, never to return. Don’t ruin yourself for me!” Isaac made the appeal with far more than his usual earnestness, and rose as far as pcssible from his chair. He know the danger, and was not willing to have any one else suffer with him, ‘*No!” Viola replied, firmly; ‘tI have the best of reasons for not wishing the police to be in this matter, at all. I am going to get you out alone!” ‘¢ Woman, you are ruined if you attempt it!” Isaac spoke warningly, but she was not to be moved, She put her hand around bis waist and firmly directed: “Come! This is a matter of will. Let noth- ing weaken your resolution, and you will win!” t was a doctrine which past experiences had rendered non-persuasive to the prisoner, but he felt the need of doing his best. This be was en- deavoring to do when tbe door was suddenly opened, the key having turned noiselessly in the lock, Viola sprung up and faced about, She could not misunderstand what it meant to ber; it meant the very worst, A match was scratched and the gas lighted. Tbe blaze sprung up and made the whole room bright in a twinkling. She was face to face witb a man whom Isaac readily recognized, It was Old Spicer! Viola was no person bardened to danger by long contact therewith, and she gazed in silent. dismay at bim who bad so untimely come on the scene, It was left to Old Spicer to show un- bounded amazement. He had no thought of finding a woman there, nor bad he knowledge of the fact that one besides Mother Jacobs was un- der the roof, Seeing her, he could only look in open-eyed wonder. ** Wal, I'll be durned!” he finally found breath + Tiola said nothing. iola ‘“*Say,” be added, “ who the dickens be you? W’ot ye doin’ bere? Don't you know it is sure
Page 14
= = o _ a 7 ba - death ter comein here? Want ter run out the jinks o’ yer life fer nothin’, do ye? Wal, you’re an a fair way!” This address did not tend to increase Viola’s confidence, She dimly remembered having plan- ned what she would doin such a crisis, but she could not recall the plan, now. She turned to Isaac in the vague hope—grounded on what she eculd not tell—that he would be able to get her out of the dilemma, The result was surprising in the extreme, For the first time she saw Isaac distinetly. When she did so, Old Spicer was for- gotten entirely. She reeled back likea queen of tragedy and gazed at him in startled wonder, Then she drop- ped into a chair just in time to evoid falling to the floor, Her head swam dizzily, and she was strangely pale. She had nothing to say. ** Wal, begosh!” remarked Old Spicer, ‘* I don’t anderstand this! What the howlin’ monkeys is the racket, anyhow?” Isaac did not answer, and the fellow’s face brightened. ‘*One thing’s clear,” he added; ‘‘ I’ve got the whole gang o’ you foul!” CHAPTER XVII. POINTS WON AND LOST. OLD Spicer looked like a very happy man, out he could not understand the new arrival. Failing to get any answer from Isaac, he looked at her sharply. *T ain’t on,” he admitted, ‘* Don’t know her; mever saw her—did 1? Somebody eloocidate! | Say, she’s jest a-faintin’, be gosh! What fer a game is this, anyhow?” He rubbed his forebead in a very perplexed way, but was then relieved of the necessity of taking the lead in the affair. Gilbert Dunning entered, If he was less surprised than Spicer, the fact did not appear. He stopped short and looked in wonder, ‘** Who’s this?’ he demanded. Viola looked up. Their eyes met. She was off her guard, and though the old clothes were still upon her, much of her true locks was re- vealed, Gilbert started back, , ** Viola!” be uttered, There was more than surprise in the exclama- tion; there was urbounded dismay; and be had cause for the feeling. S.e saw she was known and rallied surprisingly. Rising, she confronted him accusingly, “Yes, Gilbert Dunning, itis I!” she exclaimed. **T bave come to see your captive!” and she pointed to Isaac, - What is he to you?” Gilbert demanded, an- grily. . ‘He is my cousin!” ‘¢ What?” { ‘*T say he is my cousin, Alfred Marshall!” Once more Isaac made an effort to rise, and ihe came nearer succeeding than on any previ- ous occasion, ‘That name!” he exclaimed, ‘Surely, I fave heard it before. Yes; it is familiar; it is no new thing to me, The name!—surely, it is —yes; it is mine! Great heavens! I am no longer a pvameless creature! But what else am I? Ay, who am J?—what am I?” His excited speech gave Gilbert a shock, The plotter trembled and could find nothing to say. Hesaw his cherished plans in danger; he saw more than that, State Prison stared him in the face. Isaac was pressing his hand to his forehead, trying to grasp the lost past, but Viola looked only at Gilbert, and her gaze was stern and ac- cusing. Her fear bad gone when she marked Dunning’s own dismay, ‘* Behold your work!” she exclaimed, ‘““He may yet recover,” the guilty wretch faltered. ‘* Will it be your work if he does?” **T have been mad, mad!” groaned Gilbert. ‘‘If you repent, prove it by ‘letting us all go free,” “To drag me to jail?” “One word!” Viola exclaimed, Dunning as guilty as you?’ Gilbert did not answer, The question involved 0 much that he found no words for the occasion. *T can’t get at this,” complainingly observed {saac, ‘‘ Tell me more of myself; tell me what Iam! Did yousay I was your—cousin?’ and he still pressed bis band to his head, “You surely are; the son of my father’s sis- . “Ts Harold ‘Even that gives me no light.” “Your mother was Mary Stowell. She mar- ried Maurice Marshall, You and I have seen each other but rarely, for we lived far apart; Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. » ‘ but I should know you anywhere, The last I | heard of you, you wrote you were to marry a | New York girl, named Olive Osborne,” Isaac uttered a loud ery, ** Olive!” be exclaimed, ‘‘Ha! I remember, now! Olivel—my affianced wife! And this trouble of mine, this loss of mind and sense—” Greatly excited, he turned his gaze upon Gil- bert Dunning, again. ** It comes to me!” he added; ‘ the past grows plain! You, you—I know you, at last! By my life! it was you who sougbt Olive’s hand in vain, and swore to be avenged when you were reject- ; ed, And it was in this way you sought to carry out the oath!” There was more in bis excited speech than words could well describe; there was a power and pathos which made Gilbert reel and drop into a chair. ‘*T am undone!” he gasped. **So you repent, at last,” put in Viola, ‘Then, perhaps, you will allow us to go free?” ‘*No, no!” the schemer cried; ‘tI have risked all on this matter, and I rise or fall on the re- sult. Let you go?’ Never! I say, never! I will keep you, though the hosts of the world stand in my way!” ‘* Then we will fight you to the bitter end!” “Fight? And whatcan youdo? You areas pigmies in my hands,” ** Mister, bere’s a feller what’s a genooine old- time giant, an’ dead ag’in’ you, Let these folks 0, you measly snake, or out goes yer candle. ou hear me?” And at the door stood Flipper Flynn, as cool and resolute as usual. By his side was Betty Gray, and it was not bard to arrive at the con- | clusion, which was egg od correct, that she | had released bim. The Patrol now had a con- | fident air, as if he bad all fixed to suit bim. ‘** Malediction! are you again at large?” Gil- bert cried. ‘*T ain’t no larger than common, but I be on deck, Yes, old boss, you are a dune-up crook, Ketch on?” ** Tt is all due to you.” ‘*Wrong! I reckon that Viola an’ one Miss | Betty Gray, ter wit, come in fer their share of glory. I should be in hock now ef it wa’n’t fer my frien’ Betty. Damsel, I say ter you, you’re a baked brick!” He shook hands with Betty, gravely. She | looked bewildered, and did not see what reason | they had to exult when they were still in the hands of the enemy. Flipper, however, had a theory of his own in the case. He did not think Poni would dare to try and carry on war against so many, Just then Old Spicer made bis reappearance, He was too much excited to notice that anything wrong was transpiring. ‘“Say, boss, read this!” he requested, ner- vously, } He held out a paper, but Gilbert waved it away impatiently. “‘T have no time for such nonsense,” he an- swered, ‘* But it's from Blogg, an’ he says be has given us away; an’ef he bas, where be we? Why, we're here, when we ought ter be som’ers else, by gum! Read it, read it!” The paper was wildly waved, and Gilbert took it mechanically, It was not the work of a scbolarly person, but it made its points as fully as if the work of erudition, It read as follows: ‘‘ DUNNING, AND OTHERS:— “I hatea sneak, and that’s w'ot yore kaliber is. You tho’t you was asmart feller when you took watter an’ did me owt ovajobb Wal, you madea Big Blunder. Them who a’u’t with Me is ag’inst Me. See? Now, (have Told the pellice on you, an’ you may expect them at your howse at any minnt. You kinder made a Blunder w'en you took «atter, didn't you? Wal, you wa'te an'’see. That’s awl, frum your duttyfull Cirvant, who doan’t take watter at awl, Mr. B. Bioae.” Gilbert was uncertain whether to take this as it proclaimed itself; it seemed almost impossible that any one should betray an affair in which he had taken a guilty part; but it wasa fact that Blogg was vindictive toa surprising degree, While the reader hesitated footsteps sounded be- hind bim, and he mechanically turned around, This time he saw Mother Jacobs, and with her was Roger Hethington, The latter looked a little alarmed to see so many present, but Jacobs came to the point at once: ‘* Here’s a man with somethin’ ter say,” she announced, in an ill-humored tone. ‘ He is a- kickin’, but I told him you would settle his case right away.” / Her manner indicated confidence that Mr, Hethington would be ag her of unceremonious- ly: she had not learned the trouble which was in progress. Now, however, she caught sight of ‘party to it. ‘* Zvlpba,” and her eyes grew large and wonder- ing. Evidently, Roger was not ambitious to speak in such a crowd, for he remained silent, gazing from one to another of the party as if he wished him- self wellaway. If be did not want to speak, he was in luck in one respect. A band was unex- pectedly laid on his shoulder, and a gentle voice inquired; ** Will you let us act as your attorneys, sir?” * Howlin’ hyenas!” shouted Flpper Flynn, ‘ef it ain’t Mike Moran, I’m a measly liar!’ It was the detective, nor was he alone, Back of him stood Harold Dunning. There were reasons why the coming of the lat- ter meant more to some present than any detec- tive could mean, and sight of him caused a lull as striking as it wasominous, Harold, however, did not long remain inactive, Striving forward, he faced his brother with contracted brow and | well-lighted eyes. “Gilbert,” he spoke, in a deep voice, ‘‘if you have one grain of honor left, it is time for you to prove it. I have suffered for you, and ycu have made no effort to clearme. Now, convinced that I must save myself if Iam saved at all, I am here to demand justice of you. It remains to be seen whether you will force me to use the severest measures. It rests with yourself.” Gilbert shrunk from the address and his face was pallid, *‘ What do you want?” he mumbled, ‘The truth! You have allowed me to rest un- der a cloud, when one word from you would have cleared me, There are those who believe me a crook, and the ally of men of the very worst re- putations. You have known I was thus wrong- ed, yet you let it go on.” “*T could not clear you without ruining my- self,” tremulously explained Gilbert. “And so, rather than let a guilty person suffer for his misdeeds, you would make one who was innocent take his place as a sacri- fice?” Gilbert folded his hands, half-despairingly, half-angrily, as if he thought be was being misused, ‘* What do you want?” he demanded. “ Justice, and no more. It is believed I have been your associate in certain crooked; work you havedone, Is this true?” “From the time you followed me to New York our paths have been different. This was because I willed it so. As a result, you have known nothing of me or my business, I have gone my wey; you have gone yours. If you bave done enything illegal, I have not been If I bave done wrong, you have had no hand in the matter.” “ At the Cozy Cove Hotel you had trouble with a certain man who is now present—Roger Hethington. He was heard to use the name of Harold Dunning. Can you explain that?” *¢ Tcan!” cried Roger; “I knew bim asa man who had done me wrong, and, with others, lately assaulted me. I knew his name was Dunning, and I thought it was Harold, I called him so, but I was wrong. I had only one companion, then, and he was Gilbert Dunning!” Viola’s face grew radiant and happy, but Old Spicer was the only person who could find words, **Oh! won’t you sweat fer that, me beauty!” he muttered, Gilbert’s eyes were flaming, now. Coward!” he vebemently exclaimed; ‘‘ you would betray us, would you? Know, all, that Roger Hethington is a criminal at heart. He bas an older brother, Lionel, who came to this country some time ago, Roger hired city crooks to kidnap bim,so he (Roger) could enjoy the family property until he could steal euough of it to make himself solid at the expense of the older brother, The plot worked too well; the crooks played Roger false, and sent him word that un- less he came on and paid bush-money they would turn to Lionel, ransom him out, and_ betray bis false brother’s share in the work, It was this brought Roger to America.” “Yes!” cried Roger, ‘‘and you are the leader of the crooks!” ; “The pot calls the kettle black,” interrupted FlipperFlynn. ‘‘ Gents, you need not fight; we are dead onter the both on ye, b’jinks!” ‘‘ Correct!” agreed Detective Moran, who was content to remain silent for the time, Viola went to Harold Dunning’s side, ‘‘T am ashamed to ask your forgiveness,” she began, brokenly, but he interrupted: “Why should you be? We have been the victims of circumstances. I certainly bear you no ill will.” E ‘‘ One thing I can say in extenuation of my sin in thinking ill of you—even when I regarded it
Page 15
a Un ft ) 3 - | - q i a ql ia a Wl : 7 “y a. ug an re r ¢ eg a ib | i= { j P y x 7 BS mb i ly “a ; Pt Die ¥ Av aX i, ' a % yt ¥ : + ath ee fe: Wy y \‘ . . " 4 ‘ . a , ek ie) . . . » i, <t ke « te Me ¥ . a a 7a i v we { ig “ ro as proven, I could not believe my own evidence; and to-day I came here to risk my life in getting proof that you were, after all, innocent.” ** Noble girl!” There was no fear that they would fail to come to terms, but there was more to do elsewhere, ‘The crooks were well entrapped, but they were in an ugly mood, and now Gilbert had confessed, Harold’s brotherly feelings were likely to over- come all else and lead to a compromise, Whether this would be allowed by those who bad no such feelings to move them was another matter, Gilbert Dunniog had gone astray when he came to New York from a small town, and had become the ally of crooks, His crimes of in- terest tu this story had been two: First, he bad found a rival in Alfred Marshall, alias Isaac Moss, and given bim adrug which had for the time taken his reason away. Second, he had worked the case against the Hethingtons, Of thered stain in Gilbert’s room, once mistaken for Roger’s life-blood, it need only be said that it had been caused by a nose-bleed, and that, in spite of Flipper’s fears, Roger had left the hotel with Gilbert willingly and safely, The gravestone warning had come to Roger from Gilbert. The compromise fell through because the various disturbing elements were not content to let each otber go free, The result was that Gilbert, Roger, Old Spicer, Mrs. Jacobs and Blogg alike went to Sing Sing to serve appro- priate terms, Blogg, after his treachery, had sought to escape, but the drag-net took him in with the rest, Lionel Hethington was found in a house in Hoboken, a prisoner, and duly released, Harold Dunning was fully cleared of all sus- picion, and his marriage with Viola was duly celebrated. It was a double wedding, too, for Alfred Marshall, alias Isaac Moss, having re- covered his health and reason fully, was at the same time united to the lady of his choice, from whom Gilbert had tried so hard to separate him, | Happiness had at last come to both couples. Betty Gray was taken under “Teanc’s” charge, sent to school, and in all possible ways befriended, Last of all, Flipper Flynn received a money reward for his services which almost dazed him, and all of those he had heiped so well vied with each other in giving bim a substantial start in life. He well deserves the prosperity which is his daily companion. THE END, Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. BY JO PIERCE, 897 Bob o’ the Bowery ¢ or, The Prince of Mulberry Street. 415 The Vagabond Deteetives or, Bowery Bob's Boom, 452 moteur Bob, the Street-Boy Detective. 40 The Lawyer’s Shadow; or, Luke’s Legacy. 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horse-King. 494 Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective. 504 Five Points Phil. 509 Jack Jaggers, the Butcher Boy Detective. 516 Tartar Tims or, Five Points Phil’s Menagerie. £26 North River Nat, the Pier Detective. 5388 W restling Rex, the Pride ofthe Sixth Ward. 541 Jeff Flicker, the Stable Boy Detective. 651 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow. 559 Harlem Jack, the Office Boy Detective. 6869 Brooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook Detective. 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, 588 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. OR Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer. 614 Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s Aid. 628 Buck Bumblebee, the Harlem Hummer, byt peat a on ie by Pepever Theis Ferret. 6 Famin Bob, the Bowery Badger: or, Seoopm 1 Set. 658 Sky-Rocket Rob, the Lite-Saver, Atidaneiawed 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator, 694 Spicy Jim, the Only One of His Kind. 206 Tom Thistle, the Rond-House Detective, 217 Mosquito Jack, the Hustler Gamin, 226 Dennis Duff the Brown Sport's Kid. BY MAJOR E. L. 8T. VRAIN, 292 Sancho Pedro, the Boy Bandit. ROL Leadville Nick, the Boy Sport. B12 Redtop Rube, the Vigilante Prince. 838 Brimatone Bob, and His Lightning Horse Qu 852 Tombstone Tom, the Arizona Boy of “Sand.” B59 Yuranro Dave, the Young Champion Wrestler, 871 Kingbolt Chris, the Young Hard-Shell Detective, 880 Avalanche Alf, the Foothills Guide. 890 Jaguar Joe, of the Mountuin Mail-Line. BY GEORGE ©. JENKS, “485 Git Thar Owney the Unknown. 492 Git Thar Owney’s Pledge. The Demon Doctor. Pet Double-Curve Dan, the Pitcher Detective. 59 Flute, the Singer Detective. ; 608 The Pitcher Detective’« Fotl; or, Dan’s Double Play, | 616 The Ocean Detectives or. The Last Cruise ofthe Black Bear, | bog The Pitcher Detective’s Toughest Tussle. 736 Larry the Thoroughbred; or, Beaten on Every Side. BY WILLIAM R. EYSTER. 120 Pandy Da 210 Faro Pron @3 or, The Tigers of High Pine. 3 or, Dandy Darke’s Go-Down Pards, BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, 11 The Two Betectives; or, The Fortunes ofa Bowery Girl’ 76 Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. 7Y Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 268 Joe Buck of Angels and His Buoy Pard. 447 New York Nat. A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham. 58 New England Nick; or, The Fortunes of a Foundling, 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince. 498 Taoxw Ted, toe Arizona Sport. 510 Cool Colorado, the Half-Breed Detective, 518 Cool Colorado in New York. BY OLL COOMES. Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. The Dumb Spy. Antelope Abe, the Boy Guide. Keen-Kuitfe, the Prince of the Prairies. Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. 8 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy, 74 HWawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ranger. Rollo, the Boy Ranger. Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman, Sear-F ace Saul, the Silent Hunter Silver Star, the Boy Knight. Eagle Kit, the Boy Demon. Little ‘texas, the Young Mustanger Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain. 202 Prospect Pete; or, The Young Outlaw Hunters, 208 The Boy Hercules: or, ‘he Prairie Tramps. 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dick; or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 22S Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 238 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Di«guised Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger. 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 272 Minkakin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. 290 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spy. 800 The Sky Demon; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger. 884 Whip-King Joe, the Boy Ranchero. 409 Hercules; vr, Dick, the Boy Ranger, AIT Webtoot Mose, the Tramp Detective. 422 Baby Sam, the Boy Giant of the Yellowstone. 444 Little Buckskin, tne Young Prairie Centaur. 457 Wingedfoot Fredy; or, Old Polar Saul. 468 Tamarac ‘Tom, the Big Trapper Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic. 482 Stonewall Beb, the Boy Trojan. 562 Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper. 652 Don Barr, the Plains Freelance. . 661 Old Kit Bandy’s Deliverance. 670 Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. 680 Dauntless Dan the Freelance, or Old Kit Bandy in Arcadia, BY EDWARD 8. ELLIS. 6 BUl Biddon, Trapper. § Seth Jones; or, The Captives of tne Frontier. 30 Nat Todd; or, The Fate of the Sioux Captive. 2: tne Frontier Angel. 98 The Boy Miners; or, The Enchanted Island. 152 The Munted Hunter; or, The Strange Horseman, 254 The Half-Blood; or, The Panther of the Plains, 271 The Huge Iunter; or, The Steam Prairie Man, BY EDWARD WILLETT. 167 Asa Scott, the Steamboat Boy. 199 Featherweight the Boy Champion of the Muskingum. 228 Ozark Alf’; or, Featherweight Among the Outlaws. 282 The Typo Detective; or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp, 295 Fearless Phil; or, The King of Quartzville. 811 The Roving Sport; or, The Pride of Chuckaluck Camp, 822 Nemo, the Detective; or, Kit Kenyon's Vendetta. 840 Clip the Contortionist: or, The Montana Vigilantes, * Crewe pesNen Leave Cee tip pee OS RR ek pak pp ASS z BY J. W. OSBON,. 469 The Rival Giants of Nowhar’. 98 Cactus Burr, the Man from Hard Luck. 587 Old Buckeye, the Sierra Shadow. 564 Powder Phil, the Boy Miner. 609 Bolly Dorrit, the \eteran Detective. 620 Little Lightning’s League; or, The Mystery oftne Is.and 688 Plucky Paul, the Boy Prospector. BY BUOKSKIN SAM (Major 8am. 8, Hall.) 284 Old Rocky's ** Boyees; or, Benito, tue Horse-Breaker, 246 Giant George; or, The Ang’! of the Range. 275 Arizona Jack ¢; or, Giant George’s Pard. 297 The Tarantula of Taox; or, Giant George's Revenge, 807 The Strange Pard: or, Little Ben’s Death Hunt. 818 Ker-whoop, Ker-whoo} or, The Tarantula of Taos. 827 Creeping Cat, the Caddo; or, The Red and White Pards, 882 Frio Fredy; or, The Tonkaway’s Trust. 844 The Fighting Trios or, Rattlesnake, the Tonkaway. 849 Wild Wolf; or, Big-Foot Wallace to the Front. 857 The Ranch Ratders: or, The Siege of Fort Pargatory, 864 Snap-Shot, the Boy Kanger. 875 Chiota, the Creek; or, The Three Thunderbolts. 881 Randera Billy or. Frio Frank to the Front. 892 Romeo and the Reds} or, The Beleaguered Ranch. 404 Little Lariat; or, Pecan Pete’s Big Rampage. 427 The These ton tenet of; Old Rock Re e Three Trailers; or, Old Rocky on the Rampage, 442 Bluff Bill; or, The Lynx of the poe 455 Little Lone Star: or, The Belle of the Cibolo. 684 Cache Carl, the Chico Giart BY MAJOR HENRY B. STODDARD, Ex-Scout. 806 Neck-Tie Ned; or, The Dog-Out Pards. 846 Rapler Raphael; or, The Swordsmen of Zacatécas. 891 Kid-Glove Kit, the Dandy of the Rockies. 898 Kid-Glove Kit and Pard; or, The Gold King. 406 The Mad Man-Hunter? or. The Golden Gulch Mystery 505 Powell's Pardy or, The One-Armed Giant. BY PHILIP 8. WARNE, 67 Patent-Leather Joe; or, Old Rattleanake, the Charmer. 175 Captain Arizona; or, Patent-Leather Joe's Big Game, 198 Captain Mask; or, Patent-Leather Joe’s Defeat. 219 Despard, the Duelist; cr, The Mountain Vempires, 888 A Tough Boy; or, The Dwarf’s Revenge. 868 Little Tornado; or, The Outcasts of the Glen. 878 Little Jingo; or, the Queer Pard. 888 Little Oh-my ¢ or, Caught in His Own Trap, 401 Little Shoo-Fly: or, A Race fora Ranch. 408 Little Leather-Breeches ; or, Old Jumbo’s Curse, 481 Little Ah Sin; or, The Curse of Blood, 451 Colorado Kate, A Tale of the olines, 480 Three Jolly Parda. 517 Jim Gladden’s Deputy. 527 The Jolly Pards to the Rescue. SAT Randy Andy; or, A Good Man Down, 556 Lariat Lily or. The Cast for a Life. 574 Old Wenxel-top, the Man with the Dogs, 598 Keen Clem, the Ranch Imp. 599 Fim Dandy the No-Name Snort. GIs Rily Binazes: or, The Skeleton’s Legacy. yt Cen Vl, the RBloe-Cont Scout. 545 lappy Harry's Big Find. 664 Cheeky Charley the Special. : - 4 Flipper, Flynn the Street Patrol. ——ae a i BY J, ©. COWDRICK. Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery. Shasta, tne Gold King}; or, For Seven Years Dead. The Detective’s Apprentice; or, A Boy Without » Name. Cibuta Johny or, Ked-Hot Times at Ante Bar, Sandy Sam, the Street Scout, Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude Brondway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. Redlight Ralph the Prince of the Road, 4 Broadway Lilly’s Boodle. The Engineer Detective. + Broadway Billy’s ‘ Difiikilty.” 8 Mart, the Night Express Detective. 7 Broadway RBilly’s Peath Racket. { Air-Line Luke _ the Young Engineer, 9 The Chimney Spy; or, Broadway Billy’s Surprise-Party. 2 860 rut SAINT The Boy Pinkerton. Wiliam 0 Broadway; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning. 5 Fighting Harry the Chief of Chained Cyclone. ’ Brondy ay Teilly’s Dead Act. Barebsek Beth, the Centaur of the Circle. Typewriter Tilly, the Mercbant’s Ward. Moonlight Morgun, the “‘ Pizenest ’’ Man of Ante Bac. Broadway Billy Abroad. Broadway Billy’s Best; or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. Billy in Clover. Billy tn_ Texas. 675 687 Broadway 696 Broadway 708 Brondway Billy’s Brand. 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand. 785 Broadway Billy’s Business, 78S Broadway Billy’s Curious Case. BY LIEUT. A. K, SIMS. 546 Captain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock. 568 The Dandy of Dodge. 576 The Silver Sport. 588 Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow 589 Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Read Set at Silver City. 601 Happy Hansa, the Dutch Vidoeg. 611 Bildad Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. 622 Texas Tom-Cat’s Triad 681 Tom Cat’s Terrible Task. 688 Tom-Cat’s Trlumph; or. Bleck Dan’s Great Combine, 646 Cowboy Gid, the Cattle-Range Letective. 657 Warbling William, the Mountain Mountebank, 665 Jolly Jeremiahys the Plains Detective. 676 Signal Sam, the Lookout Scout. 689 Billy. the Gypsy Spy. 699 Sbaple Sim, the Broncho Buster. 712 The Mesmeriat Sport; or, The Mystified Detective, 788 Toltec Tom, the Mad Prospector, BY COL, A. F, HOLT. 899 Black Buckskin; or, The Masked Men of Desth Canyon. . 419 Kenneth, the Knife-King. 485 Littie Lightfoot, the Pilot of the Woods. B28 The Dandy Sport; or, The King Pin Conspirator. 678 Ralph Renwood, the Lightning Express Detective. 691 Headlight Harry’s Haul, 727 Headlight Harry’s Siren. BY FREDERICK DEWEY 818 Cimarron Jack, the King-Pin of Ritle-Shots. 478 Tangemund, the Desert Detective. 542 The Canyon Parda. BY CAPTAIN FRED. WHITTAKER. 15 The Sea-Caty; or, The Witch of Darien. 29 The Dumb Page; or, The Doge’s Denghter. 48 Dick Darling, the Pony Express Rider. 150 Lance and Lasso; or, The Children of the Chaco. 154 The Sword Hunters; or, The Land of the Elephant Riders, 159 The Lost Captains or, Skipper Jabez Coffin’s Cruise. 200 The Boy Bedoutns; or, The Brothers ot the Plumed Lance, 214 Wolfgang, the Robber of the Rhine. 249 Milo Romer the Animal King; or, Round the World, 265 The Tiger Tamer; or, The League of the Jungle. 881 Black Nick, the Demon Rider. 895 California Joe’s War Trail. MISCELLANEOUS AUTHORS, 4 The Wild-Horse Hunters. By Capt, Mayne Reie and Frederick Whittaker. 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen, 12 Gulliver’s Travels. By Dean Swift. , 14 Aladdin; or, The Wonderful Lamp. 16 Robinson Crusoe. (27 I!!ustrations.) 18 Aindbad the Sailor. His Seven Voyages. 22 The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinson Crusoe. By Juan Le wis. : 88 The Ocean Bloodhound; or, The Red Pirates of the Carridees. By S. W. Pierce. 86 The Roy Clown: or, The Arena Queen. By Ff S§, Finn. BR Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 61 The Boy Rifles; or, The Underground Camp. By A. C. Irons. 95 The Rival Roveray; or, The Freebooters of the Mississipp». By Lieut.-Col. Hazeltine. 98 Robin Hood, the Vutiawed Ear); or, The Merry Men of Green- wood. By Prof. Gildersleeve. 105 Old Rube, the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive. By Captain Hamilton Holmes. 112 The Mad lunter; or, 'heCave of Death. By Burton Saxe. 124 Tippy, the Texan? or, The Young Champion. By George sierson. 128 The Young Privateer; or, The Pirate’s Stronghold. By arry Cavendish. 148 Sharp Sam; or, The Adventures o1 a Friendless Boy. By J, Alexander Patten. 227 Dusky Parrell, Trapper: or, The Green Ranger of the Yel- lowstone. By Edward Emerson. 261 Fergus Fearnaught the New York Boy. By G, L. Aiken. 266 Killb’ar, the Guide; »r, Davy Crockett’s Crooked Trail. By Ensign ©. D. Warren. 298 Red Claw. the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid et the Cliff, By Captain Comstock. 817 Peacock Pete. the Lively Lad from Leadville. By Lieu- tenant Alfred Thorne. - 828 The Sky Detective; or, A Boy’s Fight for Lifeand Honor | By Maior Mickey Free. 850 Red Ralph, the River Rover; er, The Brother’s Re- venge. By Ned Buotline. B65 Raltimore Ren the Bootblack Detective, By A, P. Morris. B74 Gold-DPuat Tom: or, Ben’s Douhle Match. By @ H. Moree. B76 Calffornia Joe’s First Trail. By Colone! Thomag Hoyer Monstery. 418 Biily Bombshell, the Cliff Climber. By .#S. Winthrop. 475 The Black Ship. By John S Warner. 484 Comanche Dick and Hix Three invinelblea. By Henrv J. Thomas. 582 The Cowboy Duke. By Edwin Brooke Forrest. B52 Artel the Athlete. By David Druid. 585 Will Waters, the Boy Ferret. By H. Enton. 682 The Dead Petective’« Pouble. By Gerald Carlton. 721 Maverick Moxe, the Arizona Detective; or, The Wizard of Urkos Pass. By Will Lisenbee. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Di Lib is for sale by ail newsdealers, fi cents oe copy, or a by wanton receipt of six cents each. hae BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishera, ; 98 William Street, New York.
Page 16
BEADLE'’S«H ALF- DIME*] IBRARY. _ Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, Deadwood Dick Novela. 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. 25 Deadwood Dick in Disguise; or, Buffal) Ben 85 Deadwood Dick in His Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; 0 , The «antom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omana Oll, 5&7 Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar, 78 Dendwood Dick on Decks or, Calamity é ne, the Heroine, ZZ Deadwood Dick’s Last Act: or, Corduroy Charlie. 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville, 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick aa Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick’« Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. 188 Deadwood Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Bill. 149 Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 166 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road. 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. 205 Deadwood Dick’« Doom 217 Deadwood Dick’s Dead Deal. Deadwood Dick’s Death-Plant. 282 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughs, 268 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 847 Deadwood Deadwood 862 Deadwood 405 Deadwood 410 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 458 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood A471 Deadwood A776 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats Dick’s Ducata; or, Days in the Diggings. Diek Sentenced; or, the Terrible Dick’s Claim, Dick In Dead City. Dick’s Dinmonda, Dick in New Yorky3 or, A “ Cute Case,” Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand, Dick, Jr. z Goerets or, rear icaes Bill. > dr.’s, Dog Detective. 481 Deadwood Dick. Jr., in Deadwood. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Compact. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Inheritance, 600 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Diggings. 508 Reetsece 5 aby ge a ening eadwood r.’s, Protegee. 622 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Three. Deadwood Dick, Jdr.’s, Danger Ducka, 5684 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Death Hunt. Dick, Jr., in Texas, ick, pig) the ‘ane a eta Jick, Jr., on His Mettle. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham, 5 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boston. 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadetphia, 572 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in. Chicago. % Deadwood Dick, Jr., Afloat. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Denver. 590 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Decree, 595 Deadwood Diek, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin, 600 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Coney Island. 606 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Leadville Lay. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Detroit. 618 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinnati, 624 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Nevada, 680 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in No Man’s Land. Deadwood Dick, Jr., After the Queer. 642 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Buffalo. * Lhe aebeaeer (ome * rm, fham Gereaethe Jr.’s, Dazzle. 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s. Dollars. 695 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Danger Divide. 700 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Drop. 704 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. Deadwood Dick, dr., in San Franciseo, 716 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hunt, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dominoes, 728 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Disguise. 734 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Deal. 740 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Deathwatch. TAZ Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Doublet. 752 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathblow. 758 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Desperate Strait. 539 Deadwood 544 Deadwood 549 Deadwood BY J. ©. COWDRIOK, Broadway Billy Novels. 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 614 Broadway Billy’s Boodle. ‘586 Broadway Billy’s ‘ Difiikilty.” 557 Broadway Billy’s Peath Racket. 579 Broadway Billy’s Surprise Party. 605 Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning, 628 Broadway Billy’s Dead Act. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad. 675 Broadway Billy’s Bests or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. 687 Broadway Billy in Clover. 696 Broadway Billy in_ Texas. 708 Broadway Billy’s Brand. Til Brondway Billy at Santa Fe. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand, 785 Brondway Billy’s Business, TBS Broadway Billy’s Curious Case. 758 Broadway Billy tn Denver. 762 Broadway Billy’s Bargain. Other Novels by J. ©. Cowdrick. 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery. B69 Shasta, the Gold King} or, For Seven Years Dead, 420 The Iciective’s Apprentice; or, A Boy Without a Name. 424 Cibuta John; or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout, 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude. 506 Redlight Ralph the Prince of the Road, 524 The Engineer Detective. 548 Mart, the Night Express Detective. 671 Air-Line Luke the Young Engineer. 592 The Boy Pinkerton. 615 Fighting Marry the Chief of Chained Cyclone. 640 Barebrek Beth, the Centaur of the Circle, 647 Typevtiter Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward. 659 Moonlight Morgan, the * Pizenest ’’ Man of Ante Bas,” BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm, F. Cody) 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy. t or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Deadhy-Eye, the Unknown Scent. 68 Border Robin Mood: or, The Prairie Rover. 258 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust. or, Calamity Jane’s Adventure, Dick’s Divides or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. /endetta. No Double Numbers. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cloven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. 82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot, 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team, 69 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The Boy Detective. 80 Rosebud Rob 3 or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand, 88 Phetograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance. 92 Canada Chet; or, Old Anacenda in Sitting Bull’s Camp, 96 Watch-Eye 3 or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City, 8% Jack Moyle the Young Speculator. Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective, Cinaamon Chip, the Girl Sport. > Bonanza Bill, Miner. Boss ihob the King of Bootblacks, Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. > Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. Nobby Nick of Nevada} or, The Sierras Scamps. Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo. 19 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective. 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventrilognist Hunter. 226 Snoozer, the Boy Sharp; or, The Arab Detective, 286 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator. 244 Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret. 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 258 Sierra Sawm’sa Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vista, 258 Sierra Sam’s Sevens or, The Stolen Bride. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Boy Patrol; or. The Rival Heirs, 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen. 281 Denver Doll's Victory. 285 Denver Doll's Decoy ¢; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 296 Denver Doll's Drift; or, The Road Queen. 299 A Na. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the lron-Nerved Sport. 825 Kelley, Wickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia. B80 Little Quick-Shot; or, The Dead Face of Daggersville, 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner, 889 pengaree Kit’s Racket. 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood. see ge me Fred, bey Gent Sar Gopher. 8 Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gathererj or, The Life Lottery. 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize. : 878 Nabob Ned; or, The Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance. 885 Yreka Jim's Joker; or, The Rivals of Red Nose, 889 Bicycle Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lede, 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Harry, the Base Ball Detective. 426 Sam Slabsides, the Beggar-Boy Detective. 484 Jim Benak and Pal, Private Detectives. 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 486 Sealskin Sam, the Sparkler. BY T. C, NMARBAUGH, 28 Nick o’ the Night; or, The Boy Spy of ’76. 87 The Hidden Lodge; or The Little Hunter. 47 Nightingale Nat; or, Toe Forest Captains, 64 Dandy Jack; or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trali, 82 Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack 3 or, The Boy Trapper. 06 Old Frosty, the Guide; or, The White Queen, 28 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. 89 Judge Lynch Jr: or, The Boy Vigilante. ae Gold Trigger, the gy al er, The Girl Avenger. 8 Seen= wen > smo diet RS mr et ek ars ~ 9 Tornado Tom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core, 8S Ned Temple, the Border Boy. 198 Arkansaw ; or, The Quen of Fate’s Revenge. 207 Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain Rullets or, Little Topknot’s Crusade. 281 Plucky Phil; or, Rosa, the Rei Jezebel. 241 Bill Bravo; or, The Roughs of the Rockies. , 255 Captain Apoli::, tne King-Pin of Bowie. - 267 The Ibuckskin Detective, 279 Old Winch; or, The Buckskin Desperadoes, 294 Dynamite Dan; or, The Bowie Blade of Gochetopa, 802 The Mountain Detective; or, The Trigger Bar Bully, 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizona. 826 The Ten Parda; or, The Terror of Take-Notice, 886 Bie Benson; or, The Queen of the Lasso. 845 Pitiless Matt; or, Red Thunderbolt’s Secret, B56 Cool am and Pard¢ or The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlass; or, ) he Byccaneer’s Girl Foe, 896 Rough Robs? or, The 1! wim Champions of Blue Blazes, 411 The Silken Lasso: or, The Rose of Ranch Robin, 418 Felix Fox, the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump. the Border Rattler. 486 Phil Flash, the New York Fox. 445 The City Vampires; or, Ked Rolfe’s Pigeon. 461 One Against Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. 477 The Exceisior Sport; or, The Washington Spotter, 499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night ferret. 512 Dodger Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective. 621 Dodger Dick’s Beat Dodge. 528 Fox and Faicon, the Bowery Shadows, 588 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret. 548 Dodger Dick’s Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives, 558 Dodger Dick’s Deaperate Case. 568 Dodger Dick. the Boy Vidocq. 5678 The Two Shadows. 582 Dodger Dick’s Drop. 594 Little Lon, the Street-Singer Detective. 610 Old Skinner, the Gold Shark; or, Tony Sharp on Guard, 626 The Champion Parda, 687 Dick Doan, the Dock Boy Detective. 645 Kit, the Pavement Sharp. 658 Billy Bantam, the Boy Beagle. 671 Jersey Jed, the Roy Hustler: or, Shadowing the Shadower. 685 Wappy Hugh, the Boy Musician Detective, 701 Photograph Fred, the Camera Sharp. 715 Wide Awake Len, the Quaker City Ferret. 782 Daisy Dell. the Pavement Detective; or, Trapping Big Game. 742 Billy Winka, the Bell Boy Detective. 754 Billy Winks, the Boss Boy Shadow. BY WM. G. PATTEN. 489 The Diamond Sport: or, The Double Face of Bed Rock, 519 Captain Mystery ; or, Five {n One. 581 Da "2 Mare the Sport from Denver. 587 Old Bombshell, the Ranger Detective. 604 Tron Fern, the Man of Fire. 619 The Boy Tramp Detective; or, The Double Grip Witness 629 Violet Vane, the Velvet Sport. 641 Diamal Dave’« Pandy Pard. 651 Round Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective bi bide Violet Vane’s Victory. 682 Wild Vulean, the Lone-Range Rider, 69% Violet and Datay, the Posy Pards. 7O5 Violet Vane’s Vow; or, The Crafty Detective’s Craft. 714 Old Misery, the Man from Missouri, 724 Violet Vane’a Vengeance. TBO Violet Vane’« Verdict. 41 Violet Vane, the Vontriloquist Vidooq, 50 Violet Vane, the Vanquished. ; ok peek fe rh eh BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, ® The Flying Yankee} or, The Ocean Outcast, 17 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccaneer; or, The Fugitive Yacht. 24 Diamond Dirk; or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone, 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants. %5 The Boy Pneliat; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wolf, 102 Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Smuggier, 111 The Sea-Devll; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 116 The Hussar Captuin; or, The Hermit of Hell Gate, 197 Little Grit, the Wild Rider; or, The Stock-Tender’s Daughter. 204 Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider. 216 Bison Bll, the Prince of the Reins; or, Buffalo Bill’s Pluck. 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport or, The Woman Trailer, 229 Crimson Kate, the Girl Truiler. 7 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain; or, The Mysterious Ranchere 245 Merle, the Middy ; or, The Heir of an Ocean Freelance, 250 The Midehipman M utineer or, Brandt, the Buccaneer, 264 The Floating Feather; or, Merle Motite’s Treasure, The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned. Merle Monte’s Crulse; or, “The Gold Ship” Chase, 280 Merle Monte’s Fate 3 or, The Pirate’s Pride. 284 Merle Monte’s Pledge; or, The Sea Muraader. 287 Lilly Blue-Eyes, the Boy Rover. 804 The Dead Stot Dandy ; or, Benito, the Boy Bugler. 808 Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. 814 The Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Trail. 877 Bonodel, the Boy Rover; or, The Flagless Schooner. B88 The Indian Pilot; er, The Search for Pirate Island. 887 Warpath WII, the Traitor Guide; or, The Boy Phantom. 898 Seawalf, the Boy Lieutenant; or, The Red Clasped Hands, 402 Isodor, the Young Conspirator;: or, The Fatal League. 407 The Bey Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetia. 2 The Wild Vachtemany; or, The War-Clouu’s Cruise, 429 Duncen Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 Captain Carl, tie Corsair; or, A Cabin Boy’s Luck, 487 The Seca Ralder} or, The Hawks of the Hook. The Ocean Firefly ¢ or, A Middy’s Vengeance. 446 Maphazard Harry 3 or, The Scapegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizurd WII, the Wonder Worker, 454 Wizard Will's Street Scouts. 462 The Born Guide; or, The Sailor Boy Wanderer. 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Coaster. 474 Wizard Wills Vagabond Pard. 488 Wizard WIII’s Last Case; 07, Ferrets Afloat. A487 Nevada Ned, the Revolver Kanger 495 Arizona Joe, the Boy Pard of Texas Jack, 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. { 508 The Royal Middy ¢ or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. 507’ The Hunted Midshipman; or, The Young Sea Ranger, 511 The Outlaw Middy; or, The Young Patriot Sea Ranger, 520 Buckskin Bill, the Comanche Shadow. 525 Brothers fn Buckskin; or, The Tangled Trails in Texas, 580 The Buckskin Bowers. 585 The Bue: skin Rovers; or, The Prairie Fngitive, 540 Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder o1 the Rio, 545 Licutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. 550 Lafitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. 555 The Creole Corsair; or, The Golden Wings of the Gulf, 560 Pawnce BIII, the Prairie Shadower. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. 570 Camille, the Card Queen; or, The Skeletom Trait. 575 The Surgeon-Scout Detective. 680 The Outcast Cadet; or, The False Detective. 586 Pawnee Bill's Pledge; or, The Buckskin Avenger. 591 Delmonte, the Young Sea-Rover; or, The Avemging Sailor. 597 The Young Texan Detectives or, The Black Bravos. 602 The Vagabond ofthe Minca. \ 607 The Rover Detective; or, Kene Kit’s Champions. 617 Ralph, the Dend-Shot Scout; or, The Rio Raiders, 644 The Hercules Highwayman. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Rider Detective; or, Buffalo Bill’s Boy Para. ‘656 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt. 662 Butterfly Billy’s Bonanza. 668 The Buccancer Midshipman; or, The Sea Rever’s Ruse. 674 The Wizard Sailor; or, Red Ralph, the Rover. 679 The Sen Shadower; or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. 686 Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag; or, Tue Tarmished Name, 692 The Rival Sharps; or, Redfern, the Seeret Service Seout. 697 The Scarlet Sombrero; or, The Sharp from Texas, 702 Blue Jacket Bill; or, Tne Red Hat Rangers’ Red Hot Racket. 707 The Red Sombrero Rangers; or, Redfern’s Last Trail. 718 Carl, the Mad Cowboy; or, The Lariat Queena. ’ 719 Pawnee Bill's Pledge; or, The Cowboy Kidnapper’s Doom. 225 Daring Dick, Pawnee Bill’s Pard; or, The Red Cavalry Raid. 781 Ruth Redmond, the Gir] Shadower. 787 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. ; 748 Buck Taylor’s Boys; or, The Red Riders of the Rio Grande, 749 Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Teuderfoot’s First Trail, %56 Dashing Charlie's Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 760 Dashing Charlie’s Pawnee Pards or, Red Hair, the Renegade. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 261 Marmaduke, the Mustanger Detective; or, The Great Mix~ Up at Crescent Butte. By Lieut, A. K. Sims, 762 Broadway Billy’s Bargain; or, The Three Detectiyer in Denver. By J, C. Cowdrick. 768 Violet Vane’s Vision; or, The Fiery Hand of Fate. By Wm. G. Patten. 764 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Lone Hand; or, Kodak Kav ® Secret Seven. By Edward L. W heeler. 765 Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol; or, Knocking Out the Kid- nappers. By Jo Pierce. } 266 Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer; ‘or, The White Sioux Queen. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 267 Mac and Jack, the Invincibles; or, Tee Dinbetical Three, By Dan Dunning. Ready Ap'il 5th. was ‘ le Ned, the Boy on Guard; or, Camp Spiders of bir bpm Robin. By T. C. Harbaugh, i \ Ready April 12th. t A New Issue Every Tuesday. - Dim » is fe le all ft waar ter, or Satie melo. receipt by py bee en ve. BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, . 98 William Street, New York