Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 783) (1892 07 26)
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LLL. i r=, Oy 0 a oo alalalyZ x , “) \\ \ A\\ LE y : <\Y _ ; | (MMI HI,“ NMGT ARE UIE | A ~ Copyrighted 1892, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, No 7833 $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, . . a Year. No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. \\ \ The Detective Trio’s Uncanny Quest. The Romance of the “ Russian Case.” BY J. C. COWDRICK, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ BROADWAY BILLY ” NOVELS, ETC, CHAPTER I. THE SON OF A SPHINX, ‘* CRACKERS an’ cheese! Who are you, and what are ye doin’ hangin’ around this door? You had better take a quiet sneak out of this,” The speaker was Bappy Harry, Broadwa Billy’s office boy and detective apprentice. It THERE ON THE FLOOR BEFORE BROADWAY BILLY'S GAZE LAY THE BODY OF A MAN,
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2 Broadway Billy’s Beagles. was early morning, and Harry had just reached the office to open it and make it ready for the day’s business. He was the proud possessor of a key to the office, and it was his duty to get around about half an hour earlier than bis chief, to brush out the room and put everything in order, At his arrival this morning he found a boy of about his own age leaning against the office door. Harry looked at him for a moment, expecting him to move out of the way, but the stranger only returned his look quietly and did not stir. This nettled Harry, and he broke out in the words quoted, The other took it calmly, still keeping his hands in his pockets, his shoulder braced against the door, and very quietly asked: ‘* Who are you?” «Tl pretty soon show ye who I am, if ye don’t get out of ~ way,” was Harry’srejoinder. ‘I want to get into that office,” The young stranger stepped aside at once. ‘« Why didn’t ye say so at first?” he asked, still in his quiet, even tone, ‘I didn’t know you be- longed here, There has been a waste of words all for nothing. Are you Mr, Weston’s office ” boy? farry had opened the door while the other lad was speaking, and the office windows threw more light upon the scene, enabling each lad to get a better view of the other, The yourg stranger Harry discerned was about his own age, size, and build; not at all bad-looking; with those keen, steady eyes, that always indicate indom- itable resolution and steadfastness of purpose— tbe General Grant eyes. ** Crackers an’ cheese!” Harry again ejaculat- ed. ‘* You seem to be mighty particular about your words, Ill bet you don't hesitate to sing out for dinner when you arehungry. But, then, that wouldn’t be words wasted, unless the locker happened to be empty. Yes; I’m Mr, Weston’s office boy. Were you waiting to see him?” ec Yer, ? ‘¢ Well, if you’d said so I wouldn’t have open- ed on you so heavy. You can come in and wait for him. He'll be here at nine, sharp, unless he has business on hand or has got into a diffikilty of some sort. Come to see him on busi- ness?” * Yes,” Harry had set a chair for the young stranger, ‘*Have you gota case for Mr, Weston?” the assistant asked, as he went about his work of cleaning up. iii No.” ‘““Why don’t you talk?’ Harry finally de- manded, impatiently. ‘‘ Ain’t afraid of yer tongue, be ye? Come, tune up.” “T only talk when I have something to gay,” was the quiet response. Harry looked at the boy, sharply. That he had spoken to some purpose this time, was certain. is words meant even more than they said, ‘*Crackers an’ cheese!” exclaimed the office boy. ‘*Yon'’re a curious kind of rooster. What’s your name?” ‘* Seth Marten.” ‘'That’s a good enough name, Mine is Harry Hillyard, but they call me Happy Harry for sbort, ‘*T am usually called Silent Seth.” “They hit you right when they called you that! "You're the son of a Sphinx, I guess.” At which Silent Seth made no response. But determined to draw the silent boy out further if possible and learn what had brought him there, Harry asked: “Do you know Mr. We: ton?” ‘*T bave seen him once.” ‘*That’s a slight acquaintance, hadn’t a case for him.” No response. ‘* But you said you wanted to see him on busi- ness, and I suppose your boss has sent you, Where do you work? What do you do for a living?” ‘*1%m out of work,” was the brief reply. ‘Then you have come here on your own hook, maybe? Have you?” ** No, ” You said you ‘* Crackers an’ cheese! It’s misery to talk to such a fellow as you are,” ** Then don’t talk.” “That's all well enough for you to say, but we ain’t alike, Why can’t Pe go ahead and tell me all about yourself and what has brought you here?” ‘* | came to see Mr, Weston.” Harry gave it up, so taking Billy’s mornin per, and seated in Billy’s chair he put his upon the desk, paying no further attention to Silent Seth for a considerable time, The silent boy neither moved nor spoke, and half an hour passed, Broadway Billy bad not yet appeared, and was now quite behind his regular hour, Presently Harry looked at the clock, and an exclamation escaped bim, ‘** Crackers an’ cheese!” he cried, ** the boss is late this morning! There’s a diffikilty, and lm bettin’ on it. He told me he wanted to be on time this morning.” He looked for Silent Seth tosay something, but the silent boy had nothing to offer. “No tellin’ when he'll be here now,” Harry went on, ‘*‘ May be here any minute, or may not be here till noon, If you can’t wait, I'll tell him anything you want me to say to him, What do ye want me to say to him for you?” ** Nothing; I’ll wait,” Harry was decidedly chagrined. Hiscuriosity was keenly aroused; what could this boy’s busi- ness with Broadway Billy be? ** You're a mighty mysterious fellow,” Harry declared, finally, betraying his dissatisfaction, Silent Seth made no comment, and Harry re- sumed his reading. But tbe situation was becoming unbearable. ‘* Say,” he demanded, ‘‘ can’t you tell me what your business is?” ac No, ” ‘“ Whycan’t you?” . ** Because I don’t know myself.” ‘“Whew!” Harry whistled, ‘That's likely, that is!” Silent Seth made no rejoinder. ‘‘Tben what has brought ye here, anyhow?” Ha ay demanded, ‘*Mr. Weston told me to come,” “Hol that’s it, hey? Why didn’t you say so long ago?” ** You didn’t ask me.” ‘You beat the Dutch. But, what does he want of you?” ‘*Y don’t know,” Happy Harry was about to make further effort toward getting information out of ‘this pao boy ad od ina raion, Billy’s well known step, and he drop © paper and vacated the official chair. ie The door opened, and the proprietor of the office entered. His face had a thoughtful ex- pression, and Harry knew that something serious was on his mind, Billy noted at a glance who was present. ‘* Ha! my lad, here, are you?” he said to Silent ‘Yes, sir,” ** Well, ’'m’glad to find'youso prompt. Harry, this is Seth Marten, or Silent Seth. Seth, this is Happy Harry Hillyard.” ‘* We've been gettin’ acquainted,” remarked Harry dryly. ‘* Yes, I suppose so, for lam late. Well, Seth, how would you like to work for me? That is what I wanted tosee you about, After what I saw of you yesterday I know you will suit me.” “Tam out of work, sir, and if you think Vil do I’m willing to try.” “Very well; that settles it. I know well the value of boys in my business, and I think you and Harry will make a good team, As a rule Pll try to have one of you at the office when the other is out, but there will be times when you will work together, When can you enter upon duty, Seth?” ‘* Now, sir!” Billy smiled. He liked the unaffected manner of this boy. He had already seen something of him, as he had said; enough to judge of his worth, “Very well; your pay will be the same as Harry’s, and both be on equal footing so there will be no excuse for jealousy between you. When you bave differences, come to me. Now give me your attention, for I have the mystery of strange tragedy to solve, and shall require all the help you can give me,” CHAPTER II, A TRAGIC AFFAIR, AT twenty minutes to nine one bright morn- ing a young man was walking up one of the cross-streets in the neighborhood of Twenty-third street, in the direction of Broadway, when his attention was attracted by the piercing shrieks of a woman, Stopping short, he quickly located the house from which the sounds came, and speeding across the street, sprung up the steps, two at a time just ag the door was opened anda young woman, terrified, wild-eyed, and still screaming, sprung out, calling for the police, The young man, a strong, broad-shouldered fellow of twenty-one, with black hair and smooth face, and black, piercing eyes, put out his arm and stopped the young womaa, while he demanded: ‘*What’s the matter here? What are you kicking up such a row about?” ‘Ob! sir!” the horrified answer, “‘ my master has been murdered! Let me go for the police at once!” ’ ‘‘Never mind going; they will be here soon enough. See the crowd your screams are bring- ing. Lead me to the scene of the murder at once, Jam an officer,” The young woman hesitated, looking at the young man questioningly, and he, throwing open his vest, displayed a detective’s badge pinned upon his suspender, Quite a crowd was collected at the foot of the steps, growing larger each moment, Turning to the crowd, the young man said, hurriedly: ‘“Tuis young woman says murder hag been done here. Some of you hunt up a policeman and send him here at once,” Then the young man turned and entered the house, drawing the young woman within, and the door closed, This young man was William Weston, better known as ‘‘ Broadway Billy.” ‘* Now,” be ordered, as soon as he bad closed the docr, ‘lead me to the room where the crime was done.” ; The young woman was wringing her hands and crying and laughing together in a hysterical fasbion, and Billy had to shake her arm to bring her to her wits. ‘*Take me to the room at once,” he command- ed, sternly. ; “Yes, sir; yes, sir; right this way, sir. Ob! aM poor master, my poor master! Poor Mr, orthmore!” She led the way up the stairs, and into a front room, the door of which was standing wide open, and there on the floor before Broadway Billy’s gaze lay the body of a man, The victim was a man of fifty, perbaps, a epare, sligbt person, who was clad in dressing- robe and slippers, He was lyivg on his back, and his gown and the carpet where he lay were wet with his life’s blood. He had been stabbed in the breast, One hand, the right, was open, the arm lying at full length straight out from the body, The other hand was lying partly across the body and was tightly clinched, ‘ ; That the man had been dead for some time was evident, for the body was cold, and the blood on the carpet was thick and black. The crime must have been done the previousevening, for the bed had not been slept in, There were some signs of a struggle, for a chair had been overturned and broken, Lifting the clinched hand Billy pressed open the stiffening fingers, when something dropped out and fell to the floor. This object Billy picked up, and stepped to a window to examine, It proved to be a gold coin, with three links of a gold cbain attached, the piece being pierced near the edge and one of the links passed througb, . . The coin was a Russian imperial, as one side indicated, The other side had been cut away and polished, and upon it was a monogram formed with the letters L and I in artistic form. Billy looked at the dead man’s clothes on the chair to see if the chain had been his own, It had not, evidently, for the man’s watch was in his pocket and was secured with simply a doubled black. silken tape. : ‘* What’s your name?” Billy asked of the girl. “Tilly Tucker, sir,” was the answer, “ Did you ever see your master have anything like this?”/—meaning the cbain with its coin charm, which held it up to view as he put the question, ‘ ‘¢T never did, sir.” 4 F ‘‘ He always wore a black braid fora chain, eh?” “es Yes, sir,” “ All right,” and Billy put his find carefully away in a pocket. ‘“‘Now, what was your master’s name, Tilly?’ ‘‘ Jabez Worthmore, sir,” . *“* What was bis business?” ‘* He hadn’t any, sir,” ‘* Are you the only one employed in the house?” “Yes, sir. There was nobody here but Mr, Worthmore and me,” ‘¢ Has no family, then?” ** No, sir.” : ‘¢ Have you any idea who killed him?” ** No, sir; no idea whatever.” ‘* When did you make the discovery that he had been murdered?” ‘* Just when I screamed so, I had come up to
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Broadway Biily’s Beagles. 3 call him, and the door being open I saw him just as he is now.” “ Did you always come up to call him?” “ Whenever be overslept himself, His usual time # get up was eight o'clock, and I called him whenever he was not down by half-past eight. That was his orders, tbe poor man!” ‘* Had he any enemy, far as you know?” *' Not a one, sir.” Just at that moment came a ring at the bell, together with the tattoo of a policeman’sclub on the door, “ There’s your policeman,” said Billy. ** Shall I let ’em in, sir?’ “ Certainly; let them in at once, and so save a broken door,” The girl hurried away and down the stairs, and Billy took a last look around the room he- fore the police entered. The room was well furnished, showing that Worthmore bad been a man of good taste and one who bad looked after his comfort with con- siderable cure. His clothes lay upon a chair where he had evidently placed them at the time of disrobing and puttirg on his dressing-robe, A reclining chair stood near the bed, with an adjustable reading-stand attached, upon which was an open book. The head of the chair was toward the gas, which was now out. The cur- tains had been drawn, but now one was up, the one Billy had raised at the time of bis stepping to the window to look at the coin be had found. Heavy steps were soon heard on the stairs, and two policemen appeared upon the scene. ‘*Who are you?” one of them immediately asked, Billy showed his badge, and had the respect of the officers at once, ‘*T am Billy Weston,” he answered. ** Broac way Billy?” “ Yes,” ** How did you get here so quick?” ‘‘Happened to he passing when the alarm was given. Here’s a bad case, officers, [ sus- ct. ‘* Bedad, ye are roight,” agreed the one who had not yet spoken, ‘* Have you found a clew?” asked the other. ** Have been here but a few minutes, and have not examined things, yet. Now, one of you had better go for the sergeant while the other takes care of the crowd down below.” “ Allright, Mike, you goand send the alarm, and I'll see that the crowd don’t run off with the place.” ** And [ll scrutinize things here,” said Billy. The two policemen went out, and as soon as they had gone Billy closed the door. He then turned the body of the dead man partly over, to see if by any chance any further clew was to be found under him, Nothing was found, and he next examined the ockets of the clothes on the chair. Here he ound a variety of things—letters, papers, etc., and among them a rent-receipt book. In this a good many stubs were dated ovly the day before, in pencil, with sums of money in- dicated on each which, in the aggregate, would amount to several hundred dollars. A name was on each stub, the name of a tenant, evident- ly, and that was all. It appeared that Worth- more was the owner of houses, Tn one of the vest pockets was a small memo- randum-book, in which were many entries in something that was Greek to Billy. He could read nothing of it but the names, which were every one stt down in connection with the name Worthmore; as, ‘‘ Worthmore vs, Guilding ”; ‘¢ Worthmore vs, Brown”; ** Chipley vs. Worth- more,” etc. And among the last entries was— *¢ Worthmore vs, The Russian,” This arrested Billy’s attention at once, since the findiag of the Russian coin had Jed to the suspicion that possibly the murderer was a Russian, This was the second link in the chain of evidence, what, indeed, seemed to be a pointer for the kean crime-searcher, One thing the clothes did not contain was money, except some change in one pocket. The inner pocket of the vest, though, showed plainly where a large folding bill-book had. been habitually carried. Had robbery been the motive of the murder? Was the gold coin a charm that had been torn from the watch-chain of the assassin in the strugglef Was the murderer a Russian? These Ment the questions which his own sagacity was solve. CHAPTER III. THE POLICE TAKE HOLD. REPLACING everything as he had found it, ex- cept the gold coin, the receipt-book and the small ' memorandum-book, he opened the door and called to the servant, The young woman came in answer to his call, and she was now weeping. She was rather good-looking, about twenty-four years of age, neat and tidy in dress and evidently intelligent. Billy noted that a shiver passed over her ae she entered the room, and that she averted her gaze from the body on the floor. ‘“*T want toask a few more questions before the others come,” Billy remarked, ‘“*Tf I can answer them I will, sir,” was the willing response. ‘‘I will do anytbing I can toward clearing this horrible mystery and in finding the murderer,” ‘**How long have you been in Mr, Worth- more’s employ, Miss Tucker?” ‘*Nine years, sir. I was only fifteen when 1 took hold, but I bad been living here before that, with my aunt, who was housekeeper then. She died here, and Mr. Worthmore gave me the place, He had promised my aunt to take care of me. He was good and kind to me, sir,” and as she spoke she broke out crying afresh, That her grief was genuine, Billy had not the <a ead of adoubt. No suspicion could attach to her. ‘Then, having been here so long, you must know all about what Mr. Worthmore’s habits were,” ‘* He had no bad ones so far as I know, sir.” ‘* And, too, you must know who his friends were, Had he any very intimate associates?” ‘¢ Yes, sir; some,” ** Auy by the name of Guilding, or Brown, or Chipley, or Barrow?” Billy mentioned some of the names he had found in the Memorandum-book, such as came to mind. “T know Mr. Guilding, sir, He was my master’s closest friend, perhaps. He came here quite often of an evening to play chess.” ** Chess, hey?” “ Yes.” Here was the key to the m randa;. they were, no doubt, Mr. record of his games, ‘* Was your master a member of a chess club?” ““T think he was, but I cannot be sure. Mr. Guilding can tell you about that, sir.” ‘What is Mr. Guilding’s first name, and where does he Jive?” The girl answered that his name was Felix, and gave the street and number of his resi- dence, ‘* Have you ever heard Mr, Worthmore speak of a Russian?” was Billy’s next inquiry. ‘ Has such a person ever visited him here, to your knowledge?” ‘“‘T never have seen such a person, sir. Ho never has called here, I am sure,” ‘* Your master owned some houses, did he not?” ** Yes, sir.” ‘* And yesterday he went out to collect his rents?” ‘*T suppose so, sir; it was his regular day for doing so,” ‘*Do you know what bank he does business with?” The bank was named. **Do you know whether he deposited yesterday or not, after collecting?” “I don’t know, sir; I never knew anything about such matters, for my master never told me, d “No; I suppose not. But, you know what kind of a pocketbook he carried, of course. Was it a big bill-book, which he carried in his inner vest pocket?” * Yes, sir; and it was of dark red leather. But, you have seen it?” ** No; it is missing,” ** Then how do you know what kind it was?” Billy explained the simple mystery, and he would have found more questions to ask, no doubt, but just then a police sergeant entered the room, followed by two policemen. ‘* Any clew?” was the sergeant’s first question, Billy had never seen the officer before, nor he Billy, but the policeman who had gone for him bad told him who was on the ground. ‘Nothing definite,” was Billy’s quiet response, ‘¢T picked up a coin, and J have taken possession of a rent-receipt book and a small memorandum- book. That is all,” ** Well, band them over and I will take charge of them for the captain, or the coroner,” and the officer extended his hand. Billy looked at him coolly. ** You take charge of the house and body, and you willhave enough to do,” was the young de- tective’sanswer. ‘‘ [ guess! can take care of the things I have mentioned,” terious memo- Worthmore’s “If you attempt to go out of this room with s single article [ll arrest you,” the sergeant threatened. This sergeant was a big fellow, and his self-im- portance was a good deal bigger than his body, He had # captaincy in view. ‘* Well, that’s cool, I must say,” Billy quietly remarked, ‘If you will take my advice you won't try iton, Mr. What’s-your-name, I guess I bave about as much authority here as you have,” ‘‘ What authority have you got? You are only a private detective,” ‘**AmI? Well, cast your eyes at this and sea if it suys so.” Billy showed his badge. ‘“* Thunder!” the fellow ejaculated, know that,” ‘Well, you know it now, Do you suppose I would have told you what I had found, if L couldn’t hold them?” ‘** No bard feelings, I hope, Are you going to Headquarters?’ ** Atter I go to my office.” ‘* Aud you are going to try your hand at this case?” ‘* You might be sure of that.” ** Well, any help you want around here, tet me know, I'll doall I can to help you.” Billy thanked him, and after a few words with the ycung woman, in the ball, took his leave and proceeded direct to his office, where Happy Harry and Silent Seth were awaiting bim, He had not been gone long from the house when the captain of the precinct appeared upon the scene, and sbortly after his arrival a cab rolled up and a detective from Headquarters joined bim, It does not take long, in mighty Gotham, for the police machinery to get in motion, when Murder raises its borrid head, The detective from Headquarters was one of **T didn’t the best men on the force, whom, for conveni- ence, we shall designate ag Channing. As soon as he entered the room he appeared to com- prehend everything. Touching the dead man, he said: ‘Been dead several hours, Was killed be- fore he retired. Probably reading when at- tacked. Madea fight, but was easily overcome, The motive not apparent. Have you made any discoveries, captain?” ** No,” the captain answered; ‘‘ but the ser- geant here tells me Broadway Billy has been here, {t seems he was the first man upon the scene after the alarm was given, and of course he bas picked up whatever was to be found,” The detective rubbed his chin in a reflective Ys : ; “That is the situation, eh? Do you know what he picked up, sergeant?” “Ho told me he had found a coin, and had taken off with him a receipt-book and a small memorandum-book, 1 did not see’em, Said he was going to Headquarters,” ‘That settles it, If Broadway Billy has been here, he has skimmed the cream off the pan, you However, Ill look around may rely upon that. Found any and see if he bas missed anything. blood-marks around, captain?” ** Not a sign of blood anywhere except there,” indicating the pool on the carpet. Questions followed until the detective had gleaved all the information possible about Mr, Worthmore and his private affairs. The Nfaety woman housekeeper evidently was glad when he was done, for she lost no time in getting out of the room and putting herself be- yond the sound of-his tongue, ‘* Well, here’s a mystery,” the detective summed up, ‘Who killed Jabez Worthmore? and what was he killed for? I believe Broadway Billy is right in his opinion, according to what we can guess of it from what the girl has been led to disclose, He evidently sets down robbery as the motive, Let’s see how it looks. ‘““Vesrerday, wo suppose, Mr. Worthmore went out to colleet bis rents, Some scoundrel saw him with a fat pocketbook, and resolved to have it. Followed him home, and by some means got into the house. Got into this room, but was seen by the victim before he could ac- complish his design, Probably Worthmore be- gan the attack, and in self-defense the rascal killed him, That's the usual way. ‘‘ Here in the vest is the mark of the poe book, just as the Retriever sawit and by it decided tbat a pocketbook bad been taken, Tho man who killed Worthmore took bis money. Then, the girl has told us she found the door of this room wide open when she same up W call her master, and the street door unfastened when she ran down to give the alarm, Yes; Broad- way Billy is probably right in his ideas regard~-
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4 ing it, and he may, also, have a clew to the assassin.” ‘‘In the receipt-book, eh?’ suggested the captain, ** Possibly; or in the memorandum, or in the coin be picked up— There, I did not question the girl about that, either; but, no matter, for I did not lay much store by the coin. Well, I’m going back to the «ffive. Notify the coroner, captain, and set the law machivery going,” With that Channing tvok bis leave, and in due time was at Puwlice Headquarters, where he was soon closeted with: Iuspector Byrnes, The inspector heard hia story, and when he had done, remarked: ** Your view is good, but I attach more im- portance to that coin than you seem todo, If only an ordinary coin, 1t would amount to noth- ing as a clew, and I ain sure there must be some peculiarity about it or Broadway Billy would have lett it fur you to flud, But, we shall see,” CHAPTER IV. THE RETRIEVER BEATING FOR SCENT. “CRACKERS av’ Cheese!” exclaimed Harry, when B.oadway Billy bad told bim and Silent Setb ailabout the murder, ‘ That is a case that is going to make ussied barr, and {’m betting on it. What do you say, Seth?” Silent Seth said nothing. * Yes, it bas the appearance of a difficult case,” assented mK ‘*and it may worry us to solve the riddle, ou boys will have to do your best, for the reputation of this office rests upon you as well as upon me; always keep that iu mind,” ** We'll do it—I mean Ill do it, you bet!” cried Harry. ‘“ I’m not talkin’ for Seth, If he is so mighty ’fraid of his own breato, ’m not going to waste wine blowin’ his horn fur him. But, what do you want us to—I mean, what do you want me to do, boss? Say the word, and I'll rush a Russiap out o’ Russia in a rushin’ Lurry, if I can find one in the woods,” ‘*In one respect, Harry,” remarked Billy, ‘‘[ ey a would do well to take pattern after eth, ‘* And what's that?” Harry inquired, ‘*In putting a bridle on your tongue, You talk too much.” ‘‘Crackers an’ cheese! You talk about my talkin’, boss; where was your own tongue when you was my age and size? From what I've read about you, yours was hung in the middle and worked at both ends; and I don’t s’pose more’n a quarter you said went into print, eitber.” ‘“*T can see now where 1 made my mistake, though, Harry,” ‘* Well, mebby I'll see it too, when I get to be aman. Don’t believe I ever will, before. But, I'll put on the brakes all [ can, thoughI won’t promise to be a clam entirely,'like Seth. He says he don’t talk unless he has got sometbing to say, aud the trouble with me is, I have i got something to say, moreor less, But, I'll take in a reef,” ‘* Well, now to business, I will show you this coin again, and I want you to pay particular attention to the form of the chain links,” Billy gave them the coin, and each in turn looked at it carefully. “The pointer I give is for you both to pay particular attention to watch chains,” Billy enjoined, ‘‘and if you see one resembling these links, with a missing charm, follow the wearer, no matter who he is or where he goes. Under- stand?” ** We'll have him; I mean [ will, or—” ‘*T don’t know about that,” said Billy. ‘* You might watch a buodred years and not find the one with the broken chain, even if he walked tke streets ey ry day during all that time, If we learn anything that way it will be by pure chance, Still, [ mention it, for chance is a big factor in a case sometimes.” Silent Seth made no remark, and Harry emulated his example, ‘“*T am going to Headquarters now,” Billy continued, ‘‘and we'll close the office for the forencon. You boys go up to the scene of the crime and keep your eyes and ears open, We'll meet here again between one o’clock and three, when, if you have made any discoveries, you can report, or if [ have made any IJ can give you definite work to do. I don’t Jike to close the office, but it will give you boys a chance t. get better acquainted,” When they had gone Billy paced the floor for a few. minutes, turning the case overin mind; then putting up his “‘ OUT ” sign, be set forth for eadquarters. Entering the inspector's private room he was cordiall groated, as usual, “WwW illy,” remarked the chief, “it seems Broadway Billy’s Beagles. that you are the favored man in the Worthmore case. What do you know?” ‘* Nothing much as yet,” was Billy’s response, ‘*T think I have a clew, but it may not amount toanything. Gere it is; see what you think of it. I found that tightly clincbed in the dead man’s hand,” “Just what I told Channing,” the chief ob- served, more to himself than to Billy, and he took the coin and examined it carefully, ‘“*What do you think of iv?” the Retriever asked, ; “Found it tigbtly clinched in the dead man’s hand, you say? hat’s your theory ?” ‘* Torn from the murderer’s watch,chain in the struggle.” ‘*\it looks that way. Well, assuming that to have been the case, what then?” “The murderer was a Russian,” **Good inference! What more?” ‘*Mr. Worthmore was something of a chess- player. Here is a record of bis games with vari- ous persons, and among others I find mention of a Russian, He does not give the name; simply says ‘ The Russian ’,” “Ha! you are coming at itnow, There may be a good deal in that Russian theory. <Any- thing more?” ** Not on that trail.” * Another?} ‘Vee. ‘What is it?” ** The motive.” ‘* Well, let’s hear your idea of that.” ‘*Mr, Worthmore is the owner of some houses, He collects his own rents. He collected them yesterday, and bad several hundred dollars in bis possession last night, or I suppose he had. He carried bis money in a large, red bill-book in his inner vest pocket. That money and bill-book are missing. I could not find them anywhere in the room. I have notbeen tothe bank yet, to see if he deposited, but I’m going. I infer that some fellow knew he had that money, and enter- ed the house for the purpose of robbery. Find- ing Worthmore up, a struggle followed, and in order to escape, the robber murdered him,” *“*Good reasoning. That is about the view Chauning takes of it. Now, what are you going to do wih that coin?” **T thought I would put it on my own chain and wear it ah ee ‘* Not bad, Billy; not bad at aJl, You want to take care it does not get you into trouble, though,” “ll look out for that. I’m going into this thing, unless you don’t want me to interfere with your men, If you object, why [ll drop out—’ ‘No, sir; I don’t object. I want you to go ahead and see what you can do, It’s your case, anyhow; you were first on the ground. Vl give my men the advantags of your clews, how- ever, if you do not object,” ‘*Of course, Well, 1’ll be off, and if I get hold of anything important, Dll let you know,” **Do so; and if you want help, don’t hesitate to ask for it.” Billy took his leave, and the chief gave a satis- fied nod as the door closed after him. ‘* Billy Weston is a born detective!” he said to himself, ‘‘ His bead is as l»vel as Channing’s, and it isn’t a particle swelled, either,” He tapped a bell and brought one of his facto- tums, ‘* Tell Mr, Channing to come in,” he ordered. The detective was quickly on the spot. **T told you so,” the chief: remarked, ‘ That coin was anything but an ordinary one,” ‘That so? What was it?” “In the first place 16 was found in the dead man’s grasp,” : “Ha! That so?” “Yes. It is a Russian gold coin, an imperial, with one side polished and a monogram cut in it, tbe letters being L, ana I. Attached to the coin are three links of a gold chain.” “No wonder the young Lecocq clung to it. It is a true pointer, or I miss my guess, Did you hold on to it, inspector?” ““Not a bit. I have allowed him to keep it. You have something to work upon now, Chan- ning, 80 go ahead and let’s see how uick this Satis | can be sifted and the murderer lodged in ai ‘* Pll go at it and see what will come of it. I’m going to look into family affairs, and see if there was any one to benefit particularly by the man’s death,” The chief made mention of the memorandum of chess games, with the mention of a Russian in that, Channing took hisleave, and immediately the chief dropped that matter and took up an- other of as great importance to him. a As the shrewd inspector designed, it was to be: & contest between Broadway Billy and the acute Channing, both starting upon the same clews, Billy had hastened to the bank where, as the young woman had told bim, Mr. Worthmore had his money and «did business, On arriving there he inquired: “Did Mr, Jabez Worthmore deposit some money bere yesterday?” ‘*Who are you, and why do you ask that?” were the counter-questions, “fT am a detective, and I ask because Mr. Wor: hmore was murdered last night and weare trying to find his murderer,” ‘*Murdered! Is it possi! le? Just a moment, sir, and I'll see. No,’ after a briet search, ‘‘ he did not make apy deposit yesterday, sir. Who do you suppose killed bim?” Billy talked for a few minutes with the teller, giving him brief psrticulars of the crime; but, failing to learn anything, was soon off upon an- other tack, He was going to interview Felix Guilding. CHAPTER V. BAFFLED ALL AROUND. BILxy found Mr, Guilding at home, and knew by his face that he had not yet heard of the death of his friend. The young detective came at once to business. ** You were acquainted with Mr. Jabez Worth- more, I believe, sir,” he began the interview. ‘“* Were acquainted with him?’ the man in- terrogated sharply, ‘*What do you mean by putting your question that way, young man?” Mr. Guilding was a man of fifty or so, a thin, nervous individual, and as he put the question he clutched the arm of Lis chair, leaning for- ward with keen anxiety expressed upon bis face, “ Because Mr. Worthmore is now dead,” Billy informed bim, ‘Dead? Jabez Worthmore dead!” Mr, Guilding bad sprung partly up, but still. clung to the arm of his chair as if his next move would carry the chair with him. ‘*He was murdered last night,” Billy. further announced, ‘Dead? Murdered? My God! this is horrible? Who killed bim? What was the motive?” At that second shock the man sprung further up, taking the chair witb bim, and then fell back in it, almost choking. His face was livid, and be fumbled at his throat as if he could not breathe, ‘“*T can’t answer either qnestion, sir,” respond- ed the young detective, ‘‘ because I donot know. I have come to bd in the bope of getting infor- mation that will throw some light upon the ter- rible tragedy. You and Mr, Worthmore were fast friends, I understand. You must know all about bis private life.” ‘* Who are you, young man?” “Tam a detective, sir. I happened to be the Gest man on the spot after the crime was discoy- r . ** Poor Jabez, poor Jabez! Everything must be done to bunt down his slayerand drag him to justice for the crime. What do you want to know? Poor Jabez, r Jabez! Yes—yes, everything shall be done to hunt down his slayer!” “Did Mr, Worthmore belong to a chess club?” ‘Ves; he and I belonged to the same club, Why do you ask that?” ‘* [ want to learn all I can about hiza, as well as to learn who his associates were,” ‘* Yes; we both belonged to the Rook Club, where we used to meet often, and 1 sometimes went to his house, and he came here to play.” ‘* Where is this Rook Club?” The information was given. “Ts there a Russian belonging to that club?” Billy asked next, ** No; what bas a Russian to do with the mur- der?” ‘*T don’t know; that is what I am trying to find out. Can you say whether Mr. Wortbmore was acquainted with any Russian or not?” ** Well, yes, he was; some fellow whom he had met recently, and with whom he had played some games in which the Russian got the best of him. The last time I saw poor Jabez he said he was going to beat him if it took all summer,” ‘* What was his name?” **T don’t know.” ‘* Where did they play?” ‘There, I don’t know that, either.” This was baffling. ‘““That’s too bad,” he observed. ‘I was in hopes you could tell me all about this Russian, for it is just possible that he had something to do with the murder, I must find him,” nae Do you think the Russian killed j : | 4
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Broadway Billy’s Beagles. 5 “T say ‘it is possible he had something to do ‘with the crime, and I must find him. [ found this tightly clinched in Mr. Worthmore’s band,” and he showed Mr. Guilding the coin. ‘¢ A Russian coin, with a monogram in Russian letters, you see,” he called attention, “Yes, I see. I am sorry now that I did not ask Jab:z more about bis Russian at the time, but we happened to be in a hurry, Yes, you must find him,” ‘Well, perhaps you can give me some other information, Mr, Guilding. Where are the houses Mr. Worthmore owned? Can you give me a list of them? I must go around among bis tenants,” “Yes, I can do that, and will,” and he men- tioned streets and numbers, of which Billy made careful note, Then he took his leave, making his next objec- tive point the chess club building, Arriving there, be found several members present and some games in progress, but as soon as he had made known the terri: le news all play ‘stopped and the players gathered around him to learn the particulars, ‘*And now,” said Billy, when he had given them the facts of the matter, ‘‘ I want to ask if you know anything about a Russian with whom Mr, Worthmore recently played chess, I want to learn something about that man, if possible, and thought this was the right place to apply.” “He has never played with a Russian here, sir,” answered one who seemed to be an officer of the club, and who was, in fact, its secretary. **He has not been bere more than two or three times during the past ten days, though, He must have met him elsewhere.” “Did Mr. Worthmore frequent other clubs?” Thé names of two or three were given, where he attended occasionally. Leaving his address with the secretary, so ‘that the information could be sent to him in ease anything was learned, Billy departed, to proceed to the other club rooms; but, nothing was learned of any Russian player, No one had heard of him, and no one who knew Mr, Worth- more had heard him mention the Russian. ‘*This is no secret, so far,” the Retriever said to himself, when he gave up that line of search, ** ll now see about the tenants in Worthmore’s houses, Possibly some one has heard of such a person, If not, [ll have to widen the circuit.” The houses were visited, one after another, in the ordér in which they came nearest to hand, but nothing was ascertained that aided bis search, Billy had two objects in view: One, to learn something about the Russian, and the other, to see if any one else could be struck who might be suspected of having attempted to rob Mr, Worth- more, knowing of his having so much/ rent- money on his person. He failed in both, No Russian was to be found or heard of, nor could any suspicion be attached to any one in any of the bouses he visited, One thing seemed queer, and that was, how this Russian, with whom Mr, Worthmore had apparently been on intimetée terms, for several days at least, could be known to no one else—or, at least, to none of the dead man’s friends, Still, he must be known to some one, and fur- ther search would no doubt bring bim to light. Billy had learned that the inquest was to be held at one o’clock, and was on hand at that time, The inquest, however, revealed nothing new. The first witness was the young woman, Tilly Tucker. After her came Billy, and after him the officers. Nothing new was brought out—in fact, not so much’ as has been revealed to the reader, for Broadway Billy made no mention of his suspi- cions against the mysterious Ruvsian, So the inquest resulted in the inconsequential verdict that Mr, Jabez Worthmore had come to his death at the hands of an assassin to the jury unknown, And so ended the “ official” inquisition, and a permit followed for the burial. Mean while the two Beagles, Happy Harry and Silent Seth, had been hovering near the scene of the crime for some time, but were gone when Billy appeared to attend the inquest, and he felt some-curiosity to know whether they had discov- ered avything or not. The more so, since he had not seen Harry at dinner—from which the boy would absent bimself only by reason of im- portant engagements elsewhere. 3 Harry, it will be remembered, was living with Billy, at his home. Before going to the office, as agreed upon, Billy first went home to see if Harry bad been in yet, to find that he had, and Seth with him, hey had arrived only a few minutes after he en had left the house at noon, and after dinner had set out for the office, At the office Billy found them, ** Well, what word?” he asked, as he entered. ‘*No word at all,” answered Harry. ‘* We didn’t find your Russian runnin’ around loose anywhere, and we couldn’t get into the house for the blue-coat at the door, So we bung around with the crowd, and heard a good deal of noth- in’. Silent Seth said nothing. Billy spent some time in conversation with his two attaches, nad leaving them there together, proceeded again to Headquarters, where he met Detective Channing, who bad just come in, They went in, and together had their inter- view with the sagacious inspector. Theirreport that nothing more bad been learned regarding the tragedy, only added to its mystery. CHAPTER VI. SILENT SETH’S SURPRISE. A WEEK went by and nothing new bad been evolved; the mystery of the Worthmore was as impenetrable as ever, The Russian had been searched for high and low, by the police and by Broadway Biliy and his Beagles, but was not to be found; nor was it known where Mr, Worthmore could have met him to play chess, The items in the memoran- dum of games were not dated, but the time of the games played with the unknown bad been definitely fixed, for the games played imme- diately before and after bad been ascertained, as it was easy enough to do, but the interim, so far as concerned the movements of the mur- dered man, was a blank. Billy was wearing the tell-tale coin on his watch-chain, Openly, but so far it had not been noticed by anybody. Happy Harry was less happy than of yore, and Silent Seth was more silent than ever, if possible, Billy bad searched well into the life of Mr. Worthmore, only to be the more impressed with the man’s record, It had nota bad spot on it anywhere; it was all plain and open except the two evenings upon which he had played chess with the undisecoverable man. The Retriever had learned more about Russia and the Russians during that week than he bad ever known before, and particularly about Russians in New York, He had been to the Russian Consul, on State street, hoping to gain some information about a man whose name would fit the initials on the coin, but without learning anything. He bad made a pretty thorough canvass of the hotels and boarding- houses where Russians mostly congregated, but all in vain, One afternoon Billy was seated in bis office with Harry. They were talking about the case, Seth was out at the time, * Are ye going to give it up, boss?” Harry had jast asked, “Not by any means!” Billy assured, ‘* Many a detective bas had to follow a trail for a year befcre securing what be wanted.” “That would kill me, sure, Crackers an’ cheese! if this thing is going to drag on another week Ill be non eatabus and non sleepabus, Don’t seem to me I was cut out for a detective, for I haven’t got enough patience.” “You will bave to learn to bave patience, Harry.” “IT spose so, If I had as much patience as I have got tongue, I’d do. Now there is Seth: he hasn’t much to say, but he’s got bushels of wait in bim,” “Seth is a peculiar boy, Harry. He is always cool, never loses his temper, never talks unless to a purpose, and is as keen asarazor. See how be bandled that Fitnam case.” ‘*T know it, boss; he’s all you say, and I reckon Til have to water my laurel bush if I want to keep pace with him. But, here he comes now,” Steps were heard without; then the door open- ed and Silent Seth put in an appearance—as un- concerned as though he had only stepped out the moment before, whereas hea bad been absent sey- eral hours, Closing the door, he approached the desk and said very quietly: ‘* T have found the Russian !” ‘Found the Russian!” exclaimed Billy, bring- ing his faet down from the desk and sitting bolt upright. “* Found the Russian !” cried Happy Harry, excitedly. ‘Crackers an’ cheese! Who is he? Where did ye find him? If you ever talked in your life, talk now!” Seth betrayed no signs of exultation; he was as impassionate as a stoic, Eee EE A 4 7 Soe ee ee ee eee SS oe ee See 2 ee Billy looked at him with wonder and admira- tion. If he really had made the discovery, he was a remarkable boy. Had it been Happy Harry, be would have come in with a whoopand a jump, unable to contain himself, and would probably have stood on bis head to give vent to his feelings before at- tempting to speak, J Seth paid no attention to Harry, but waited for Billy to speak. ** Where did you find him?” Billy asked, ‘*Tn a shoemaker’s shop on Bleecker street, sir.” ** What number?” Seth told him. ‘* And you are sure he is the man we are look- ing for?” Yes.” ** How did you find him?” ‘*T was passing the place, and happening to look down, saw two men playin’ chess, I was interested at once, and looked closer, One man seemed to have a foreign look, and I made up my mind to drop the other case and investi- gate.” “You did right.” ‘“‘T did as you had told me, Well, I went down and asked the cobbler if be would put some nails in the heels of my shoes for me, and sat down while he didit. I had a good chance then to watch the game and find out what I could about the players, The shoemaker is a Russian, and his name is Polarovsky.” Billy had made a pencil note of the street and number, and now he noted the name as well, ‘*Go on, Seth,” he ordered, ** Well, one of the players was Anierican, as I knew when he spoke, and that the other was a Russian I was sure, because he tulked broken English just like the sboemaker, Besides, he and the shoemaker spoke together in a language I couldn’t understand, and we know the shoe- maker is a Russian, I took it to be plain enough that they were talking in that language,” ‘¢ That’s good reasoniig. Goon.” “J Jooked for his watch-chain, but he hadn’t any. His buttonhole was torn through, though, aud the corner of his vest-pocket was ripped down, While they were playing, the Russian made a mcve on the board that cornered the other man, somehow, and tben he and the shoe- maker laughed, and the shoemaker said; ‘ You bave got bim there, Ludvik.’ There’s one letter that fits the monogram. But, I got both of ’em, The Russian’s hat was off, and in the top of itL saw the letters L and I.” ‘*Seth, you are a jewel!” Billy cried, laying his hand on the boy’s shoulder, fondly. ‘* A jewel!” cried Happy Harry. * He’s & whole casket o’ gems! Crackers an’ cheese! now I begin to live again, Whoop!” With tbat he executed a manner of Indian dance in the middle of the floor, to work off some of his surplus pent-up delight. Seth stood perfectly calm and unconcerned, Billy’s breath was coming quicker as his blood was getting warmed up with his “ detec- tive ever,” and, bad he admitted it, he felt just like following Happy Harry’s example in bis old-time boyish manner. Here was light at last, thanks to one of his Beagles! “(Ts that all, Seth?” he asked, ‘*That’s all,” was the answer, maker had my shoes done then, and I hadn't any excuse to stay any longer, so { hurried right heres I did think of staying, and following the man when he went away, but I didn’t know how long he migbt stay, and [ knew you could take up the trail there, anybow. Did I do right, sir? “You have done perfectly right, Seth. You are the best detective in New York this min- ute. The boy sat down and held his peace, having said all he had to say, and Billy’s words of praise, apparently, had no effect upon him what- ever, Broadway Billy could but look at the boy in wonder. How could he be so perfectly calm and unconcerned at such a time? It was Seth’s “ way,” . ‘Yes, sir; you are the besf detective in New York this minute. A hundred of them would give anything to know what you have just told me, Mind, now, not a word of this, boys! It is our secret and we will work it alone,” “You think he is the man?” asked Seth, ‘‘There is every reason to believe that he is the one we are after, just as you decided your- self,” answered Billy. ‘‘lo the first place you found him playing at chess; next, he is a Russian; next, it appears that bis watch has been tamper- ed with in some manner or other, bis buttonbole and pocket being torn; and, last and best, the in- ‘The shoe-
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Broadway Billy’s Beagles. itials in his bat fit the monogram. He fills the bill pretty closely, certainly.” ** And what are you going to do?” asked Harry. © Why, bring the proof home to him,of course,” answered the young chief. ‘‘ Seth!” ‘© Yes, sir!” “Go back to the place. If the Russian has not gone already, follow him when he does go and find out where he lives, If he has gone, re- turn here and wait until Ireturn. You, Harry, remain at the office, for that woman may come regarding the Spencer case. Ifshe calls, tell her to leave word with you. ITll be back before many hours, I guess, and then perbaps we’ll be oo to get down to business and make things um. CHAPTER VII. DOES BILLY MAKE A BLUNDER? Bruty WEsTON left his office with a light step, for there was light abead! Now he bad some- thing to work upon, thanks to his faithful young apprentice, hat this Russian was the one who had played chess with Mr, Worthmore had yet tobe proven, of course; but all that would come in due order, Billy had not gone far when he met Detective Channing. ‘* Well, where to, now?” he demanded, ‘¢ Only up to the house to ask that gir] another question or éwo,” was Billy’s response, “Then you haven’t given up yet, eh?’ Chan-" ning asked with a smile. ‘'Nary a give up!” returned Bul? with a light laugb. ‘I’m going to git thar if 1 can, as they say it out West. How is it with you?” ‘“*The same. I’d give the newest fifty-dollar bill you ever saw if I could get a clew to the owner of that coin.” *“T don’t doubt it, but am afraid you won’t find him,” and each went bis way. Billy gave a satisfied smile as he continued his ‘course, and was soon at the scene of the murder again. Tilly Tucker was still in the house, there being no one else to take charge, for, by the way, Mr. Worthmore did not seem to have a relation living. The girl answered the door, and at sight of Billy she smiled. ‘** More questions?” she asked. ‘* ixactly; may I come in?” ** Certainly, for [ suppose there will be no end to them,” and she led the way to a sitting-room where Billy took a seat and prepared to interro- ate, ‘* Miss Tucker,” he asked, ‘did your master wear boots, or shoes?” ** What a question!” ** A strange one, but all the same, important, If I remember rightly, I saw boots in bis room on the morning when he was found dead.” * Yes, sir, he wore boots; but for the life of me I can’t see what that has got to do with find- ing out who killed him,” ‘It may have a good deal to do with it. Now, did be have those boots made to order? Can you tell me that?” * Yes, he did; he wouldn’t wear any other kind.” ‘Good! Now, did be get a new pair some time recently before bis death?” ** Yes, sir; be got a new pair that same week, He had just thrown away his old ones and taken his Sunday ones for every day.” Billy was coming at it now, There could be no doubt about the Russian, or the place where Mr. Worthmore had met him to play chess, he decided. **Good again!” he said with satisfaction. **Now, an important question: can you tell me where he had those boots made?” “* No, I can not tell you that, sir, I do not know,” Billy had hardly hoped to gain that point, and ‘was well enough satisfied with what he had been able to get. “* Well, I must find that out some other way, then,” he averred. ‘ ’m much obliged for what you have told me.” “You're welcome, Mr, Weston. Ican tell you something else, now, too; something you asked me about once before.” ‘* What is that?” ‘Mr, Worthinore’s will.” ‘* Ha! has that come to light?” “Yes, The lawyer was here this morning, He mon big share of the property has been left to me ““Whew! You're in iuck, Tilly! If I wasn’t ‘engaged already 1 don’t know but I’d set my cap for you. Asit is, suppose I Jook upa sub- stitute for you?” The girl laughed, but was rather confused by his boldness, ‘** No, you need not trouble yourself,” she pro- tested. “‘Isn’t it strange, though, that Mr, Worthmore should bave thought of me in that way?” ‘* No, I don’t know that it is, since he seems to have had no one else to leave it to,” ‘* But, to leave so much to me. He couldn’é have done better by me if I had been his own child, ‘To tell you truly, he’s left it nearly all to me. I don’t tel) you tbis to boast, but because I don’t have many friends to talk to, Please do not tell any one.” ‘No, Pos mum about it. I’m glad to hear of your good fortune. Have you any brothers or sisters to share it with?’ ** Not one; I’m all alone.” This was said in a saddened tone, *¢ Then you will have to get married,” declared the detective, ‘‘ and make some deserving fellow happy.” He laughed lightly as he said it, and soon de- parted, but as he walked away he began to reflect that it was rather strange this girl should have been provided for so handsomely. -Half an hour later he was at the shop of Polarovsky the shoemaker. The shop was in a basement, with a large window in front in which were displayed some samples of the art of this disciple of Crispin. Looking in at the upper part of the window, a view of the interior was to be had, and it was unly natural that passers-by should glance in, So it had come that Silent Soth had made his discovery. Billy had looked around for bis new ally as he approached, but not seeing him had concluded rightly that the Russian had gone, Descending the few steps, he opened tke door of the shop and entered. The proprietor was reading a paper printed in some foreign language, while a cobbler on a bench was pegging away for dear life, The proprietor seeing a stranger enter, dropped the paper and rose to do the honors of bis humble establishment. ‘Mr, Polarovsky?” Billy questioned. ‘* Yes, sir,” was the response, with an accent we will not attempt. ‘*T have called concerning that last pair of boots you made for Mr. Worthmore a couple of weeks ago.” ‘* Yes, I made him aid boots, Poor man! Too bad he was killed like he was, so cowardly way. That murderer ought to be burned alive, But, what about the boots?” Billy had gained his point, so the question of the boots was of vo further importance, **] only wanted to make sure this was the place,” he responded, ‘There was a Russian here with whom Mr, Wortbmore played chess, What has become of him?” Billy saw, or fancied he saw, a look of half alarm come over the face of the shoemaker. “*T don’t know what you mean,” the shoe- maker declared. ‘* Well, I mean the Russian called Ludvik, with whom Mr, Worthmore played chess when he came bere, Don't deny it, now.” The man was looking at Billy keenly, and sud- denly he caught sight of the coin he was wear- ing ou his chain and the expression of his face told that he recognized it! He looked up at once, as if to see whether Billy bad noted it or not, and Billy led him to think be hadn’t, ‘** Well, he played chess with me,” he confessed, after a moment, ** Your naime isn’t Ludvik, is it?” ‘§ No; but I am the man that played chess with him. But, bow youknow that? What you want find out, anyhow?” **No matter how I know it, I must see that mav. You know wherehe is, and I hope you will give me his address. You won’t lose any- thing by it.” ** But, who are you?” ‘*T come from Mr, Worthmore’s house,” ** And what is it you want with that man you eall Ludvik?”’ “‘That is for him to hear when I see him. He might not want it known openly.” ‘* Well, be is not here, has not been here, but if you want to leave any word I will give it to him if he should call. Tell me what.” ‘*T have no word to leave. 1 must see him himself.” “Well, I don’t know where you will find him, then. He may not come here any more.” “You began by saying he had never been here, and that you did not know anything about it. Now you admit thathe washere. Ofcourse he was here; I know that as well as you do.” Billy regretted now that he had played his hand so openly. He could not know whether. his Silent Shadower, as he had come to call Seth, had fol- lowed the man, or had missed bim and returned to the office. It was plain that this man Polarovsky had taken alarm, and probably as soon as Billy was gone he would send word to the suspected man and thus put bim on his guard and give him a chance to escape, ‘* But, he is not coming any more, sir.” Proof, in that, that Billy’s reasoning was near the truth, ‘*He was here not an hour ago,” Billy went on, as if not noticing tbe other’s remark. ‘ He was playiny chess, and there is the board he played witb, You may as well tell me where to find him, for 1am bound to seé bim some way or other, See here, do you recognize this?” Billy had taken in about everything the shop contained, and had discovered the board on one of the shelves, And now, having seen that the man had noticed the gold coin and recognized it, it was that which he held up to sight as he spoke. ‘* No, I don’t know it,” the man averred, *¢ You never saw it before?” ‘* No, sir; never!” ** All rigbt, then; it can’t belong to your friend Ludvik, and there’s no use my trying to restore his watch charm to him. I will bid you good- day, Mr. Polarovsky.” And with that he went out, leaving the puz- zled and astonished Russian staring at the door after be had closed it. He did not stand idle long, bowever, for be opened the door the next moment and tbrust his head out to look after his strange late visitor. Billy was walking off at a rapid pace, end in a moment the shoemaker had the satisfaction of seeing bim turn a corner. CHAPTER VIII. HAPPY HARRY TAKES A HAND, WHEN the Silent Shadower returned to the shoemaker’s shop, after reporting to Billy, as sbown, he walked past the window leisurely to see if the man was still there, He was there, but was no longer playing chess, The other player was uot to be seen, and the Russian was standing up, his hat on, and seemed to be talking to the proprietor. Silent Seth passed on, but stopped after he had gove a little distance and secreted himself in a doorway to await the appearance of the man he was to shadow. ln a few minutes he appeared, and turned up the street in the opposite direction, The Silent Sbadower allowed bim to geta little distance away, and followed. The man was tall, rather spare, and was clad in every-day American dress, He carried a@ cane, and walked slowly as if time was no ob- ject to him. Presently he turned down another street, con- tinuing on in the same manner, until finally be entered a bouse and the trail seemed at an end. Silent Seth however waited, Presently a girl appeared at the door of the house with a pail and mop in hand, and began cleaning the stoop. Seth walked up and addressed her. ‘*What was that man’s name that went in here a minute ego?” he asked, ‘““What man?’ the girl asked, looking around at the questioner as if to demand what it was to him, anyhow, “That tall man with the cane,” Seth ex- plained. ‘ His first name is Ludvik, but I can’t remember bis other name, What is it?” ** Tyanovitch,” ** Please say it slower,” ‘* His name is Ludvik Ivanovitch.” “Thats what I wanted to get holdof. He lives here, of course?” ‘* Yes, he lives here, that is to say, he boards: here, which is all the same in Dutch. What do you want with bim?” ** Nothing.” The girl straightened up and looked at the boy in surprise, ‘* What do you mean by comin’ here and both- ering me for, then?” she hotly demanded, ‘‘ For a cent I’d chuck this pai) o’ water over ye.” But Seth was moving off. There was no reason for tarrying longer. He had gained his point. ' Repeating the name several times to make I
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Se ee ae el a — a a fms Re ie OS ee ee _ —S sure of it, he left the neighborhood and made his ys to the office, , here, to his surprise, he found the door locked and Happy Harry absent. It bad been arranged that should Harry have occasion to go out, in the absence of the others, he was to leave his key in a certain place, in order to give Silent Seth the means of getting in; so Seth secured the key, and opening the door, entered the office to find on the desk this note: ** Boss:— “T am on another Jay, same case. just as soon as I have holed the game, Will be back pede SB sg ‘Another lay, eh?’ Seth’s thoughts ran. ** Wonder what that can be? Hope he bas struck something good, for I like Harry, Hope he’ll do even better than I have done.” He sat down to do duty as office boy until the return of the otbers, or one of tuem,. He was eager to see Billy to report. In the meantime what had taken Happy Harry out? He had gone on business, as his note left for Billy indicated. Harry was alone in the office, poring over a book, some time after Seth and Broadway Billy had gone out, when the door opened and a stranger, a man, came in, ‘* Mr. Weston in?” he asked. ** No, sir,” was the prompt response, ** How long before be will be in?” “Give it up. It may be quite a little time.” ‘Im. I wanted to see him. Wanted to en- gage his service.” ‘’ Well, sir, you can leave your card and Mr, Weston will wait for you if you will set an hour for another call,” “T guess I'll do that. I haven’t a card, but you can tell him my name is Jarvis Bunting and that Pll call again about four o’clock. I want to sce him sure, if he can wait,” ‘* All right, sir.” ** And if be can’t wait, tell him to set an hour when | can see him,” ** Yes, sir; I'll see to it.” “You might mention that I want to see him about that mysterious Worthmore case, I may be able to put him on the right track, for I by I know something no one else bas thought ce) ° **Crackers an’ cheese!” **'You don’t say so!” ‘* Why, you seem to be interested in it too, my boy. What do you know about it?” ‘ 5 pone know half as much as I’d like to, you et! ‘Has your employer discovered anything new, that you know of?” ‘*Giveit up. I’m only his scrub, you know; I’m not s’posed to know what’s going on, but 1 know he’ll be glad to get anything you can tell ‘* Well, tell him what I have said, and Ill be around again at four. I think I can open his eyes a little.” *¢ Why haven’t ye told the police?” ‘* Because the papers said Mr. Weston had the inside track of them all, and if he knew any- thing he was keeping it to himself.” ‘* Jest so, Well, 11 tell him.” The stranger took bis leave, and as soon as the door closed Happy Harry cut a pigeon wing in the middle of the floor, “Crackers an’ chese!” he muttered. ‘‘ Here's anew departure, sure as cats kil] rats. Who and what is this feller? Reckon I’d better get onto his haze, ’fore he gets gone,” Springing to the desk he wrote the note which Silent Seth found, later on. That done, he hastened out, closed the door, aud, putting the key in the nook where he had been told to leave it, was off, As he went down the stairs he adjusted a mus- tache to his lip, one that was fitted with a spring 80 that it could be taken off or put on instantly at pleasure, for he had no desire to be seen and recognized by the man he was after, He had made haste, as of course he had to, and as soon as he reached the street he looked for his man. There he was, not far away, moving leisurely down the street. Harry was after him at once, without any fear of being known if seen, for the mustache made a great alteration in bis looks, Tbe man was young, being not more than twenty-five, to judge by appearance, and was uite well-dressed, He had a keen look, and arry sized bim up, in mind, as being a sharp fellow. He went on at a moderate pace until he came to a hotel, where he sauntered in. The Beagle followed, and was led through the exclaimed Harry. 1 Broadway Billy’s Beagles. 7 arcade to @ staircase near the rear which opened upon the billiard saloon below, Down this staircase went the man, and down went Harry, now almost up with bim, and the man turned and looked at him, to which Harry paid not the least attention, not noticing the look. Reaching the bottom the man stopped to look around, and after a moment’s pause passed around one side and satdown by another man, one who was some years his senior, Harry, meantime, stood watching the games in prvo- gress, There were players at a good many of the tables, While Harry was apparently watching the tha tables, though, he had his eyes upon the two men. He noticed that as soon as the young man sat down they fell into conversation, something ap- parently cf interest. ; Moving around tbat way, gradually, Harry purposely courted a mishap. He got in the way of one of the players, and was advised, with considerable vehemence, to get back out of the way. This he hastened to do, and backing out of the way of the cues, dropped into a chair right be- side the man with whom the self-styled Jarvis Bunting was talking. He had gained bis object, and now he pricked up his ears. Leaning over upon his hand, on the side of his chair furthest from the pair, he seemed intently absorbed watching the progress of the play. ‘*You have no doubt about it, eb?” the younger man was saying, ‘* Not the least sir,” answered the older man, in a deep voice. ‘It can be done like a charm.” “Well, we'll chance it, anyhow, on your opinion, It would be bad to make a mess of it, though. Assoon as yousee a doubt arise we'll draw out,” “Of course. We don’t want to proceed unless upon acertain thing, Vl be on the watch for that. Yonudo your part well and there will be no danger of anything else.” “Tm to ga back at four.” “Very gocl. Give him your story straight, and make ag od impression upon him to begin witb,’ ‘*T guess I can do that. They say he’s only a youngster, anyhow, and I'll bet he can’t beat meata game at wits. Ifhe does T’jl eat my hat, that’s all.” “© Don’t boast and don’t underratehim, From what I have beard he isa young terror, He’sa detective born and bred. If there wasn’t some- thing in him you may be sure Byrnes wouldn't patronize him.” ** No, I suppose not; but, we'll see,” ** And then, after suspicion has been thrown in the rigbt channel, you must offer to com- promise withche girl and so win her regard, Of course the fellow will get free, but that will probably end everything of his prospects, and you will come in to play your cards. [ don’t see a thing in the way of success. Ithink you are bound to win.” “ Well, I hope so, anyhow, for I have a good deal at stake,” CHAPTER IX, GETTING A FOOTHOLD. For a little time, after, Harry caught nothing of interest to him, and consequently it could not be of great interest to our story. Presently, however, something was said that caused him to open his ears with renewed at- tention. He wanted to hear what response would be made to the observation he had caught, ‘It is mighty strange who did kill the man, though, isn’t it?” the younger man had just re- marked, “Yes, strange indeed,” was the response, “Tt isa beffling mystery. But, it is better so, for just there lies our strongest hope for suc- cess, Happy Harry felt a little disappointed, for he bad been telling himself that these men must know something about the murder, if they were not, in fact, actually concerned in it, With that suspicion in mind, he had dreamed of coming in abead of either Billy or Silent Seth, clearing the suspicion from the Russian and putting the crime right where it belonged, But now that hope had faded, and he had to admit that Billy must be on the right scent, after all, In that case Silent Seth would wear the victor’s crown when the game ended. It was plain, from their own words, that these men knew nothing about the crime. “ And if any clew should fall our way, it will be to our best interest to conceal it.” So observed the younger man, continuing the talk. ‘“*OF course. But do not be alarmed as to that, for you are not likely to get hold of the clew. Where all the detectives in New York have failed, you are not going to find anything. But, come; let's try a turn at pool to pass away the time till four.” They arose and crossed over to a vacant table, and Happy Harry’s career of usefulness was cut short for the time being. “Crackers an’ cheese!” he exclaimed to him- self, ‘‘ what sort of a consarued diffikilty bave I tumbled onto, anyhow? What are these two blooming roosters up to? I giveitup, Tllhave to let the boss rassle with it, It’s too hefty for me,” Realizing that he could do nothing further there, he made his way leisurely out and return- ed to the office. Feeling for the key where he had left it, and finding it gove, he knew some one was in and re- moved his false mustache and entered. Silent Seth was there, but Billy had not yet returned, ‘* Hello, Sphinx!” Harry greeted. ‘t What have you discovered? Anything new ors’prisin’ly strange?” ** Nothing much. Russian’s name is,” ** And you call that nothin’ much! Crackers an’ cheese! what would you calla big discovery, anyhow?” To which the Sphinx made no response, ‘‘ Well, what’s his name, then?’ Harry in- quired. ** Ludvik Ivanovitch,” * Tudivanvika— Jerusalem! say it again, Seth!” The other repeated the name, slowly and dis- tinctly. “ Crackers an’ cheese!” ejaculated Harry. “ How you ever got home with it all is more’n I can see, If it had been me I’d ’a’ lost a pocket- ful of it along the way.” The Silent Sbadower had nothing to add, greatly to Harry’s annoyance, He wanted bim to talk—to tell how and where be had learned lve found out what the the name, “T wish you had something to say all the time, Seth,” he declared, almost angrily, Seth looked at him in a questioning way, but did not waste words to inquire what he meant by that, Harry answered, just the same, ‘* Because then you would talk,” he explained. “TI might as well come in here and talk to the chairs as to talk to you. Why don’t you talk more and be more agreeable?” ‘¢T mean well, Harry, but it’s no use trying to talk when I have nothing to say; it’s no use at all.” ‘“ S pose it’s all right, Seth, but I can’t get it through my head how it is, Lain’t built that way, that’s sure, Now I'll tell ye what J bave been doin’,” Thereupon Harry related the experience he had had, together with his ideas concerning the new development, end so they continued in a rather one-sided conversation until Billy came D. In the mean time Broadway Billy bimself had been making progress. No sooner had he turned the corner and got beyond sight of the Russian sbcemaker, as stated at the close a preceding chapter, than he stopped short, Casting a quick look about bim, he selected an open hallway for his purpose, and, dodging into it, made.a hasty change ip his acre He came forth in white bair and beard, Walking with bis bands clasped behind his back, and his shoulders bowed, he appeared to bean old man. His gait was a +huffling one, and he played the cbaracter to perfection. Retracing his steps, be showed bimself around the corner sgain, and was just in time to see the shoemaker emerge from his shop, Billy felt secure in his disguise, but seeing the man coming ¢*traight toward him he knew it woald be put to the test, They met, but Polarovsky was in haste and did not give the seeming old man more thana passing glance, They passed, and in a few moments Billy turn- ed round to follow, Apparently he did not look up, but be was watching the shoemaker to see if he turned around, That he did not do, but pressed on to the cor- ner, where hestopped and looked down the street in the direction in which he had seen Billy tarn.\ Of course the young man was not to be seen,
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8 Broadway Billy’s Beagles. and satisfled that be was not around, Polarovsky hastened off in the direction that bad been taken by the otber Russian, some time before, The shoemaker did not look back, but forged straight abead until he came to the place of his destiuatiou, the house where the suspected mur- derer was lodged. - pete he sprung up the stairs and rung the € Billy stepped out of sight, not wanting to be seen, but was where he could see what was going on. The door was opened, and after a word or two Polarovsky disappeared within, when Billy stepped out into sight once more and advanced to the house, He noted the number as he passed, slowly, and the mauner of house it was; certain signs which he was quick to interpret leading him to the con- clusion that it was a place of furnished lodgings, Passing on up the street for a little way, he stopped, and taking his stand ina suitable place, waited and watched, In about five minutes Polarovsky appeared again, and went back the way be had come, He was now in less haste, and it was plain that bis business was done, When he was gone, Billy made his way back toward the house, stopping at a point somewhat nearer to it, He had guessed what the shoemaker’s errand had been, and, if he was not mistaken in that uess, he would soon see the Russian leaving the ouse, He believed the shoemaker knew the man’s secret; perhaps he bad been his accomplice in the crime, and had come to warn bim to get bimself out of reach as speedily as possible, Billy was not mistaken. Presently the door opened, and out stepped a tall man, a fellow answering to the description Silent Seth had given of the Russian.” Billy knew him on sight, and was glad for the opportunity to get alook at him, That Silent Seth had been right in bis conclusion he had no doubt, This was beyond doubt the owner of the coin, The man carried his cane, as before, but this time he was further burdened with a big valise, some coats, and an umbrella, ** Sweet pertaters!” Billy said to bimselfin his old way, ‘ he is playing the Arab, sure enough; he is taking ny, ed bed and walking. But, was itan Arab? No matter, though.” It was plain enough. Tbe man had taken alarm, and was moving out, A little more and Billy would have lost all Silent Setb had gained, of which he knew nothing yet, however, The Russian walked for a little distance, then took a car, and ere long was in another quarter of the city entirely. Billy had follawed, and bad located him in his new lodgings, as he be- lieved it to be, On that point he must be sure, Stepping up to the door, after the man bad been within for some time and did not re-appear, he asked: ** Do you take lodgers here?” ‘* Yes, sir,” was the answer; but in a tonzue so broken that he could bardly understand, * Can I get a room?” the detective next asked, The response to that be could not comprehend, siuce it was in some foreign tongue. @ shook his head, and something was said then in Eoglish to the effect that the rcoms were all taken. There was nothing for Billy to do but go away, which he did, returning to the office. He had noted carefully the street and number, and did not believe the man wouli make an- other move unless further alarmed, It bad been a question with Billy whether to arrest him or not. He had the power todo so, of course, but it was a question of prudence. Perhaps a little delay would bring further proof against him, He had, too, promised the inspector he would inform him of any discovery he might make, and felt bound to keep bis word. . When he reached the office he found his ary fe there awaiting him, “Crackers an’ cheese!” cried Happy Harry, at sight of him. “If you had stayed away much longer I'd ’a’ bu’sted sure, Tve got a story a yard ng to tell ye. But, Pll let Seth talk first, ‘cause be is brief and to the point.” Billy turned to the Silent Shadower, **T suppose you missed your game, eh, Seth?” he observed, ‘‘No, sir,” was the answer; ‘I found the man, followed bim to his boarding-place, and found out what his name is,” ‘What! You got his name?” ** Yes, sir. He boards at Number — —— street, and his name is Ludvik [vanovitch,. You see, sir, that fits the monogram.” ** Silent Seth, you are a good one,” Billy com- plimented, while he looked upon the boy with admiration. ‘‘ Harry, you will bave to water that laurel bush of ycurs, sure enough,” | CHAPTER X, JARVIS BUNTING UNFURLS, Happy Harry smiled in a aatistied way. | ‘Our silent partner is a bummer, and no mis- take,” he agreed with Billy. ‘1 am proud of | him, you bet. I bope he’ll get as big and as | great as Alexander was, and make this con:bi- nation just whirl.” ‘“‘] think he is in a fair way,” said Billy. ‘But, Harry, what is the tale you have got to unfold?” ‘‘Iv’s a reg’lar lion’s tail,” Harry declared. “Tvs a yard long, with not a twist in it from root to tip, I have got onto the unwritten work of this secret order o’ ornery crooks, or some of it, anyhow, Give me your ears, now, and [ll upwind my story.” Their ears, or Billy’s at any rate, were given accordingly, and Happy Harry told what had taken place, giving everything he had been able to learn, B oadway Billy listened with interest. ‘This certainly opens a new chapter in the romance,” he declared, ‘‘Here is a side issue, sure enough, I might consider it the main trail, but for two reasons.” ** And what’s them?” asked Harry. ‘* Well, in the first place they admit that the murder is a puzzle to them, so it is plain they bad no band in it, Then, too, the suspicion against this Russian is growing stronger all the time. Heis dedging the police hke a hunted rabbit in a bog. But, what is their game?” ‘* You'll find out when be comes here at four,” ‘ll certainly try to, And it is near four now. Seth, I want you to go back and shadow your Russian further,” ** Yes, sir.” ‘* You won’t find bim at the place where you left him.” The Silent Shadower showed no surprise at that, but waited in silence for further instruc- tions, He was a puzzle to Billy, this silent, imper- turbable boy. Billy then told what he had been doing himself, giving Seth the present address of the wily Rus- sian, and the Silent Snadower set out. ‘**What am J going to do?” asked Happy Harry. ‘* Pl find work for you presently,” answered Billy. ‘*Seems to me Seth is gettin’ all the plums,” Harry complained. “What! Not getting jealous, Harry?” Billy exclaimed, ‘* That won’t do,” Harry smiled to prove tbat be didn’t mean it, but Billy saw that under the smile there was a thorn. * You wouldn’t expect me to send you after the Russian, would you, when he is Seth’s own game? You have got your own foxes to bunt, Harry.” “Did I do right, boss?” ‘* You did perfectly right,” Billy approved. *T tell A en whatit is, Harry, in you and Seth [ believe I have got a pair of Beagles to be proud of. You bave both got the right detective knack about you,” This little praise made Harry all right again, and put him on his mettle for further efforts, They talked together until four o’clock, when there came a step without and a hand tried the door, The latch had been put on, with a purpose, and while Billy now rose to open the door Happy Harry dodged into the wardrobe, This had been previously arranged, so that the man might believe he had the detective all alone. Billy opened the door and Mr, Jarvis Bunting stepped in. roadway Billy gave the man a keen, swift survey. He found him to tally pretty closely with the description Happy Harry had given of him. **Take a seat, Mr. Bunting,” he said. * Are you Mr. Weston?” the man asked, taking a chair. *T am, sir.” ‘¢ And you know me?” ‘¢ By the description my boy gave me of you.” “Hal Isee. That fellow must have a pair of eyes in bis head. I suppose he told you the nature of my business with you, eh?” ** He did,” in followin’ that feller, “ Well, itis as 1 told bim, I believe I can help you regarding this great Worthmore mat- ter.” ‘If you can do that, sir, I shall be glad to hear from you.” “To begin with, I will state that I am a rela- tion of the dead man’s, the only living relation, so farasI know, 1 believe I am his heir.” ** You have been a go00d while coming to the front, have you nut? Why have you not ap- peared before?” ‘* It was only yesterday that I learned of the crime,” ‘‘That is strange, The papers have been full of it. Where bavg you been?” “ That is just it, sir. I donot read the papers, and would probably not know of it yet if my at- tention had not been called to it.” ‘¢ Well, that point is clear enough, then, Now, Mr. Bunting, what can I do for you?” ‘That 1 will now explais.” The young man squared himself in his chair for the effort. He was cool and calm, and bad bis wits fully about him. He meant to close Broadway Billy's es, Me As I said,” he began, ‘‘I am a relation of the murdered man’s, His sister, older than he, was my grandmother. All the rest of the blood, so far as I know, isrunout. My lawyer tells me I am the only heir.” “T follow you.” ; “Tt was my lawyer whocalled my attention to bis death—Mr, Worthmore’s, Imean, Law- yers are cute fellows, you know, He wants me to come into my rigbts, and then he expects to feather bis nest out of my plumage. I am onto his game, though, and all he will get will be a just fee.” ‘* Perfectly right, sir.” ‘“‘Of course. Now, I am not sentimental enough to say I don’t want this property that is going begging for a lost heir to come and gather it up, for 1 do wantit, What is more, I am going to have it, if possible, I am told, however, that it bas been willed to the old gen- tleman’s servant girl, and of course I shall bave to fight for it. You see how it is.” ‘*T see, sir.” : “Still, if my claim is admitted, I will not be too hard on the girl, I will compromise with her, and so settle the matter for good.” . +] fail to see how this bas anything to do with the murder mystery.” ‘“T am coming at that now. I said I would compromise the matter, but in saying that, I mean I will doso if everything proves to be all rigbt and fair, If not, then I will fight, and fight bard.” ** What do you suspect?” ‘That this girl is not altogether innocent of that crime.” This was said in a hoarse, impressive whis- per, to give it all the force and weight possi- le. ‘Ha! then you think she has hastened the old man’s death in order to come into the prop- erty tiie sooner, do you? There may be some- thing in that.” ‘* No doubt of it, in my mind.” Billy did not believe what he had hinted at, but was trying to lead the fellow on, He want- ed him to tbink he was falling into bis plans easily and without a suspicion of the game he was playing. ‘*But, surely the girl herself did not do the deed,” he now remarked, ‘“‘T don’t say she did,” said Bunting. ‘She bas a lover, though, a poor, miserable scamp, and it is likely enough that he bas done it, That is the clew I wanted to put into your bands, Mr, Weston.” : ‘‘Ha!l now you are coming at it, sir. There may be something in all tnis, I begin to see daylight abead, now, Let’s look at it; This girl knows she will come into the property at the old man’s death, For some reason she cannot marry until the old fellow dies. Perhaps he wouldn’t allow ber to do so,” “'Tnat was it,” “Exactly. Well, her lover bas urged her, and she, as anxious as he, bas at last listened to his plans for putting the old fellow out of their way. He has been let into the house, bas done bis work well, and next morning the girl gives the alarm and makes a dickens of an ado about it. Mr. Bunting, perbaps you have put into our bands the very key to the problem.” j Mr. Bunting was smilicg in a very satisfied way. He was tickled to note how well he had are his cards and how nicely this detective had fallen into his trap. It was just possible, however, that he would ‘
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come to know Broadway Billy a little better be- fore he was many days older, At present he had @ high contempt for his ability. **] believe I have put you on the right track, sir,” the sharper declared, to the police with this, but from what the papers say—lI have read up on the case since my atten- tion was called to it—frcm what the papers say, you are the one best entitled to it.” “ Well, I’m greatly obliged, I am sure,” As he sat talking, Billy was toying with his watch-chain, dangling the gold coin charm so that it could not help drawing the notice of the fellow, Bunting looked at it more than once, but witk no sign of recognition, But, Billy did not ex- him to recognize it. That coin and the ussian were linked together, and it was the best proof of his guilt, ** And now you want to know what I want of you, of course,” the man went on, after a pause for effect. ‘* Well, yes, for 1 am sure you are not alto- gether disinterested.” ** Detectives always look at a matter in that light, and they are ’most always right, My in- terest, first, is to gain what is mine by right, Next, to put the crime where it belongs.’ Last, to carry out a personal end.” “And that is the real object of your visit here.” The fellow wormed a little uneasily. ‘Well, maybe it was,” he admitted, ‘‘T’ll tell you. I am more than half in love with that girl, and if she will come to terms with meI will compromise with ber. If she will marry me [Jl give her half, If not, then I fight. What I wanted to see you particularly about was, to help me in this.” ** And how can | help you?” “ Hasily, We know,” and he winkod his eye, “that the girl had nothing to do with the murder berself. Maybe it was that lover of hers, That will be for you to decide, If anything does point her way, let it slip through your fingers, See? When I come into my rights, whether I marry the girl or not, I’ll fix you nicely for the service. It’s all fair and square, anybow. See? See?” And Broadway Billy saw. CHAPTER XI. INVESTIGATING MR, BUNTING, Happy HARRY, in the wardrobe, was grinning from ear to ear, as he heard all that was said and saw how neatly his boss was *‘ playing ” Mr, Bunting. ‘*Crackers an’ cheese!” he exclaimed under bis breath, ‘‘that feller thinks be has caugbt a sucker, but I’ll bet he will find he’s got a stinga- ree when he goes to pull in his line,’ Billy was silent for a moment, **This scheme of yours won't be exactly regu- lar, Mr. Bucting,” he reminded, ‘‘ It won’t be a safe one for me to play.” “Money in it, though, my young friend; money in it.” ‘* Maybe there is.” ' “It’s a sure thing. My lawyer says he has a sure case, and whether | get the girl or not I am bound to get the property, She won’t get a dol- Jar of it, unless sbe comes to my terms.” “ You are sure you can break that will?” ‘* So the lawyer says,” ** Aut who is this jawyer of yours?” * His name is Ridley Ruffle,’ ‘* WV nere does he dangle his shingle?” Billy was purposely dropping into undignified language. The fellow gave an address, which both Billy and Happy Harry made mental note of, “And now this lover,” Billy further asked, ** where are weto look for him? What is his name?” ‘* His name is Watson Barlow.” ** Where is his place?” ** An ad |ress was given, ‘At first sight,” Mr. Bunting went on, “ you mi.ui (ake hiay to be true blue and fast color, but he hain’t, He might even impose his good- ness upon you for a time, but look out for him,” “We'll attend to Mr. Barlow. Well, Ill look into this clew, Mr, Bunting, and then [’!] let you know what [ think of it. Suppose you drop around and see me at the same hour to- morrow, [ll try and be bere if I can.” Dil be on band, Do you know, Weston, I like you first rate, and I think we’ll have no trouble getting on together.” Another wink, “Pm bound to win, and then I'll make it all right with you. Mum is the word, you know, and you'll get all the glory,” “Po mam, pard, See that you don’t men- tion it,” | Broadway Billy’s Beagles. 9 **T won't, you bet. Ta-ta,” With that the fellow took his leave, and a look of keenest contempt came over Billy’s face, Out from the wardrobe sprung Happy Harry, “I could bave gone | and proceeded to execute his war-dance in the middle of the floor, Before be had done Billy laid hold upon him and saii: ‘No time for dancing now, aery Out and after him, and learn all you can. am going now to Headquartei 3. o home as soon as the trail ends,” Harry was all business at once. Springing to the wardrobe he made a change of coat and bat, and putting another mustache op, a different colored one this time, was out and away. Billy smiled as the door closed after the lad, and nodded approvingly. He knew it would be next to impossible for the sharper to shake the young Beagle off bis trail, And as to the fellow’s shrewdness,/that was all in his mind. Mr. Bunting’s story had been about as trausparent a one as Billy had ever listened to. “T think I can see right through him,” Billy said to himself. ‘‘ But, Dll take a look into what he bas called my attention to and see if there is any ground for such a suspicion, I’m sure there isn’t, though. The Russian is my mutton,” Closing the office in baste he hurried off to Headquarters, He might be too late to see tha inspector, but he would drop around anyhow before going further, The inspector was in, and gave him his usual greeting. ‘* What luck?’ he asked, ‘* Not very much, perhaps,” answered Billy. ‘* But, you have discovered something; I can read it in your eye,” ‘Yes, [ have discovered something, and have got several things on my mind to unload,” ** Well?” ‘* With the aid of my boys I have tound out the Russian and run him to his hiding-place.” ‘Hal thatso? What is his name? “His name is Ludvik lvanovitch. He is a chess-player, and you see the name fits the monogram,” ‘* And you didn’t arrest him?” **No; I thought we would be able to get more evidence if we watched him for a little while first,” ** That is so, but there is the possibility that he may give your boystheslip. All boys are not what you were yourself, Billy.” . ‘*T know it, sir; in fact, I begin to think these young Beagles of mine are a good deal smarter than [ ever was, Ob! I mean it; you wait till you see something of their doings.” The inspector smiled, ‘* Where is this Russian now?” he asked, Billy told him, ‘* Weil, I think we had better goand take him in, There is evidence enough to warrant his arrest, and we want to make a showing in the matter, you know.” “Just as you say, sir. I bave got another trail to follow at the same time, now, and Dll tell you about that before you decide fully.” And Billy told him about Mr, Bunting. The inspector was thoughtful. “ Billy,” be said presently, ‘‘ there is a double game being played here. I am not so certain now that it was the Russian who killed Worth- more,” ‘** You tuink Bunting bad a hand in it?” ** It looks bad for him.” ‘But it is a mystery to him the same as to every one else,” And Billy further told him how he knew that, The chief studied long, ‘‘ Broadway Billy,” he said, “‘ you were not wrong in allowing the Russian a little more time, There are others concerned in this mat- ter, somewhere, We must have’em all,” ** That’s what I think,” “‘ And I think I'll send Channing down to help ou shadow the Russian.” ‘All right; the more the merrier. I’m going on the other lay just now, to see what there is in that,” ‘** All the more reason why Channing should keep the Russian in sight, then, I willsend him down without delay, Let me know how you make out, will you?” * Yes, Pll ah in again, This is properly a police case, and [am init only by chance any- ow. I hope we'll be able to clear it up pretty soon, It is getting a little provoking.” ** A lucky chance you are in it, too, Billy. Well, do your best,” So they parted, and Billy laid his course in the direction of the scene of the crime, His ring at the bell brought the other occasions, ‘* More questions?” sne asked at once, , ** Yes, more questions, Tilly ;” Billy responded, smiling. ‘You needn’t've quite so familiar, sir,” she rejoined, ‘ Call iis betes Tucker, if you please,” “Allright, Miss Tucker, Are you going to ask me in? 1t wov’t take me long to ask the few questions I have this time.” “Then it won’t burt you to stand here,” with a smile, “Allright, Well, to bégin with, do you know a fellow named Jarvis Bunting? I see you do,” Her face told him that. A dark look had come upon it, and she looked asif she could will- ingly choke Mr, Bunting. St Yes: I know him, the foo)!” she snapped. ‘© What do you know about him?” ‘*T know he 7s a fool.” ‘* He wants to marry you, I believe,” ‘His want will be his master, then, if he does,” ‘* You prefer Watson Barlow, of course.” The tell-tale blush answered that, ‘* How did you come to know so much, Mr, Smarty?” ‘““We make it a business to pick up odds and ends of information,” **T should think you did, What bas this sort of information got to do with your finding out whe killed Mr, Worthmore?” ‘*T have come around to ask you if Watson Barlow didn’t do it.” The girl was fairly dazed and overcome, She gave a gasp, as if for breath, and her face turned all colors rapidly. Billy’s words had knocked her out comp otal ‘* Wh—what do you mean? she gasped, ** Didn’t 1 make it plain enough? ‘** But, you surely are not in earnest, are you?” “Why not? Suppose I tell you that sus- picion has fallen upon you and your lover.” The girl tried to smile, but it was a useless ef- fort. She was frightened. Still, Billy could detect nothing of guilt in her manner, “It is impossible,” she declared. “If you knew Watson Barlow you would then under- stand that it could not be, And as for me, I loved Mr. Worthmore almost as though be were my father.” ‘* Well, that suspicion has been hinted at,” said Billy, ‘‘ and 1 wanted to see what you would say toit, It was thought that’ perhaps you and he bad put your heads together to get the old gentleman out of the way, so that you could marry as soon as you came into the property.” “Oh! Mr, Weston! How could you! ‘““T don’t say it was my own suspicion, Miss Tucker,” ‘*Then whose was it? Who has dared to breathe such a thought? It is shameful,” ‘What do you know about Jarvis Bunting? Was he—” ‘**Hal! He’s the one that started it, the wretch! I could scald him with a good will,” ‘*He is some relation to your dead master, is he not?’ ‘*Him? No more than you are, He’s a cow- ard, a rascal, and worse! 1 despise him!” And her face went to prove that she did. es CHAPTER XII. THE MANY-SIDED MYSTERY, As has been said, Billy could detect nothing of guilt in the young woman’s manner. He was a good judge of character, was Billy, and it was not often that he made a wrong esti- mate, Still, he would test the girl further, ‘““And now this lover of yours,” he said, “where will I find bim? It is my duty tu go and see him, to judge of him for myself, You see, everything bas to be investigated,” ‘Pll give you his address, willingly,” answer- ed the girl; and soshe did. ‘‘] am not afraid to bave you find him, Go, by all means, and satisfy yourself about him, I know you will dismiss the suspicion at once after you have talked with bim, I know him.” * Yes, it is to be supposed you would,” ‘*T know him too well to doubt him. 1 had rather think Jarvis Bunting himself the guilty one,” “Well, I won’t trouble you any further now,” said Billy. ‘If the police come to see you about the same matter, talk to them the same as you bave talked to me and they won't botber you long.” ‘All right, let them comeif they want to; I’m not afraid of them,” Billy went away completely satisfied in mind girl, as on
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| 10 Broadway Billy’s Beagles. that this girl was altogether innocent of any | no night td strengthen any suspicion you may share in the crime, In fact, be bad had no thought otherwise, as will be remembered. He had been impressed entertain against him,” ‘* Your very words would serve to strengthen a suspicion, did [have any. Iam not prepared with her innocence at the very outset, when he | to say that I have a suspicion against him, how- had had best opportunity to detect her, Taking his leave, he set out to find Mr, Barlow, it was necessary that he should see him and form an estimate of his quality, since his atten- tion had been called to him, There was, of course, the possible chance that he had done the deed without the knowledge of Tilly Tucker, though Billy had no idea that such was the case, Still he would see Mr. Barlow, Ke found him at the address given, attending to his office duties, being employed as shipping clerk in a large store, When the man had been pointed out, Billy went to him and asked him to step aside fora moment, He then displayed his badge, and demanded: *“ Watson Barlow, what do you know about the murder of Jabez Worthmore?’ The young man gavea great start, and his face blanched. He looked at the young detective in a@ dazed manner, ““Why, I don’t know anything about it, sir,” he declared, ‘‘That is, nothing further than everybody else knows, Why do you ask me? Am J suspected of the horrible crime?” Billy studied bim closely at that, Here was something he had not looked for, What had led the man to ask that question so suddenly? ‘¢ Do you know of any reason why you should be suspected?” he counter-questioned. “ Only the fact that I was in the house that same evening, sir, as I suppose you have learned,” Here was another surprise for Billy. He had not learned this, and his thoughts flew rapidly. Why had Tilly Tucker kept this bit of in- formation from hin? But, it was instantly plain. To have disclosed if would have been to draw the attention of the detectives to her lover. * And the fact that you were there,” said Billy, not letting on that it was news to him now, ‘‘ has been kept very quiet. What was the object in that? Is there any good ground for supposing that you might know something about the matter?” ‘Perhaps, if you look at it in that light, I can explain it, though. Iam innocent of all knowledge of the affair, I assure you. Mr. Worthmore came in about half-past nine, and half an hour later I left the house. Mr. Worth- more was alive and well then,” ** How do you know he was?” * He called down to Miss Tucker to be sure and secure the door.” Billy snatched off his hat and scratched his head, If the door bad been so looked after, how had the murderer gained entrance? Was it possible, could it be possible, after all, that Tilly Tucker and her lover did know some- thing about the crime? But, no, the thought was Opposed to his every instinct, ** Do you know whether Miss Tucker did lock the door or not?” he asked, “Yes, Ido. I heard the lock click asI de- scended the steps after bidding her good-night.” “Then how in the name of mystery did the murderer get into the house. The young. wo- man said the door was unlocked when she dis- covered the crime.” ** You ask me too much, Ihave been puzzling my head over it, but have had to give it up.” hile talking, Billy was toying with his watch charm to make the man notice it, That he presently did, but without a sign of recognition, Billy bad not expected any. **Do you know Jarvis Bunting?” Billy imme- diately asked, after the man’s last quoted re- sponse. ‘Yes, the rascal, I know him,” was the prompt reply. “¢ Some relation to Mr. Worthmore?” “ Not a bit, that lever heard of. I don’t be- lieve he is. He's certainly unworthy to be, for Mr. Worthmore was a gentleman.” * Which Bunting is not?” ** Decidedly not.’ ‘**Would you think him capable of such a crime as murder?” “Well, no, I cannot say that I would. That is going too far, for a fellow who is a coward at heart.’ : ** How about robbery ?” “Ww But, no, 1 will not say it, I have | ever. Not so much of a motive can be brought against him as against you.” Billy was fishing now. “ Maybe | can enlighten you a little regarding the situation,” offered Mr. Barlow. ‘ Bunting and I bave been rivals for Miss Tucker’s hand, He knew she was heir to Worthmore’s property, while I did not. If you suspect me, suspect him, also. But, I cannot believe he did the crime.” “Well, for the present I will drop it,” said Billy. ‘*As you are innocent, of course you will let events take their course, I may see you again a little later on, In the mean time say nothing.” A few words more and Billy took his leave, Watson Barlow was left with something to ponder over. Was there anything in the world detectives did not turn over when following a scent? Billy believed it was too late in the day to pay a visit to the office of the lawyer—said to be Ridley Roffle. As it was on his way, or at any rate not far out of his way, he decided to go there and take the chances of finding the man in. He did so, and as he drew near he espied Happy Harry shadowing the number in whicb the law- yer was said to have his office, and knew what that meant. Jarvis Buuting had come there, and Happy Harry had been close upon his track and was still hovering near, Billy had donned a false beard, and walked leisurely along toward the house, e gave Harry asign as he passed him, and at a second glance Harry recognized kim and responded, The signal bad been that Harry was still to keep on the trail, and Harry understood it per- fectly well. Billy passed right on. A little distance beyond the house, however, he stopped and sat down on a step as if to rest, where he remained until Bunting left the other houss and went his way. Waiting long enough to note how well Happy arry was doing his duty, Billy got up and went straight to thelawyer’s number, Tbe office was in what seemed tu be a private house, and suchit proved to be, 1t was the lawyer’s own house, and his business sign was lettered on one of the front windows, Billy went up the steps and boldly entered. Whether this was the usual way or »0t, at that office, he did not know, nor did be much care, Mr. Ruffle was in, Billy recognizing him at once from Harry’s description, ‘* | have called upon alittle matter of business, Mr, Ruffle,” Billy immediately broached. The Jawyer looked over the top of bis glasses, as if tosee the better, taking a good survey of his visitor, ‘You have the advantage of me, sir,” said he. **T don’t know you.” “Pll introduce myself, then,” and Billy tore off bis false beard, “I am Billy Weston, the detective.” Mr. Ruffls looked somewhat disconcerted for a moment, ‘Glad to know you, sir,” he presently said, offering bis band, ‘‘What is your pleasure? What can I do for you? Pray take a seat, sir, ‘*T want to know, before I go into this scheme,” Billy came bluntly to the point, ‘‘ just what proof you have that Jarvis Bunting has any claim upon Mr. Worthmore as kius- man.” “ Hal um. Well, Mr. Weston, we are deal- ing with facts in the matter. The situation is Fay as I presume the young man has told you, r. Worthmore was bis great-uncle, Weare sure of our ground, so you have nothing to risk in lending him what assistance you can.” “To be sure,” said Billy. ‘* But if anything should come under my ovservation to lead me to doubt his proofs, how much of an object will it be for meto be blind for the time being?” Here was a‘‘feeler,” to give the lawyer the impression that he was with him ‘or personal gain. ** All 1 will say now is that you will not lose anything, sir. Bat, don’t be afraid to give the case your support, for there is no risk to be run. All our proofs are straight.” **Very well, I take your word for it,” Billy decided, “Be sure you do your best to carry your point, for you cannot risk a lost case an more than I'can, Do vour verv best, and I wi But with that Billy made a men- do the same,” tal reservation concerning the direction in which he intended to do his best, CHAPTER XIII. ALL IN THE DARK ONCE AGAIN. WHEN Billy left the office of the lawyer, whom he bad set down for a scheming shyster, he felt very selt-satisfied, He believed he had pierced clear through the thin mask, and bad discovered what was behind it, It was a scheme, he felt sure, to impose a frandulent heir upon the Wortbmore estate, Further, be believed he had now set both the lawyer and the “heir” at ease respecting what they might expect from him, and that now they would go ahead with their game,and endeavor to carry it forward to the consummation, That was what he wanted tbem to do. Now, what muve next? With his Beagles botb on duty, he was free fo AN er himself in whatever direction he thougus st. He thought of visiting the lawyer who had Mr, Worthmore’s will in charge, to inquire of him concerning Ridley Ruffle, and to post him respecting the scheme, if his suspicions proved right. it was now too late in the day for that, how- ever, for the lawyer would not be found in. That being the case, he decided to go to the house where he had last seen the Russian, to learn what success Channing bad met with. He doubted not but the Russian was now under arrest, but he wanted to be sure on that point, since, if not, it was because he bad again moved his abiding place, and it was important to know whether Seth had been in time to shadow him. He was approaching the house, where every- thing appeared to be quiet and orderly, with not a sign of a policeman in sight, when a paper was suddenly thrust into his hand, Rilly looked immediately at the person who had taken the liberty with him, and found it to be only a common bill-distributor, He passed on, and as he walked he idly un- folded the paper to see what its import was. Not that be cared; he did it idly, and without thought. His curiosity was aroused, though, when he found a smaller paper folded and pinned within the larger, Withdrawing the pin, he unfolded the inner paper and looked at it, when, to his great amazement, he found it was addressed to him, and he turned instantly to find the distributor, The fellow had vanished, To say th. t Broadway Billy was astonished, woul! be to express it mildly. And he was still more surprised when he furtber unfolded the paper and read the follow- ing, vy ritten in pencil: ** Mr. WESTON: — ‘ff you have any regard for your health, drop out of this man-hunt. We are in no mood tu be trifled with. Consider this a fair warning, and profit by it. A word to the wise ought to be enough. “Desperately, len LY “Tt is from the Russian,” Billy said to him- self. ‘‘How has te found out that I am after bin? It seems that I bave not been having it all my own way. And his agent recognized me in spite of my disguise. Billy Weston, you will have to be careful or there will be mourning at your wigwam,” He felt like kicking himself for one thing, ant that was for looking around upon makimg tle discovery that the note was addressed to him. But, that had been the natural impulse, and be was not to blame. ** Now, however, ke was able to reflect that perhaps the man had not been certain of his identity, and had been iu hiding to watch what effect the note would have upon him when he discovered it. If that had been the case, Le bad given himself away nicely. ‘* Well, there was no heip for it,” he tcld him- self, ‘‘It was so sudden and uvexpected that 16 knocked me out. Now what am 1! going t» dw? This game isn’t one-sided, not by any manver or means, and it isn’t nleasant to know you ars being shadowed, as I undoubtedly am. So, tiv police baven’t got Mr, Ivanovitch, after ail. If they had, he wouldn’t be free to send notes to me, He went on toward the house, considering what he should do, ‘*May as well be banged for a shark as a herring,” be decijed, ‘and here is for *t. Vil ues? and ask for Mr. Russian.” ah he did. pon making inquiry, thougb, be was told that Mr, va seritce had it away; that he — Se ee ra at —s
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‘ ER a we = IE a ER SS oe we SLO REA LE oe tS OE SL ot a sent for in haste and had gone for good. “ And it was lucky he had, too,” his informant added, ‘for he hadn’t been gone a dozen minutes when the police came for him,” This was not the same person Billy had tried to talk with a little earlier in the day, of course, That settles it,” Billy said to himself, as he wentaway. ‘‘ Now, if Seth has failed to con- nect wc are dumped, This thing is a good deal bigger than it was when we first sized it up, and it’s growing. Wish I could see Channing to see how he feels about it.” His wish was speedily had, He had not gone far when he met that gentle- man face to face, Both were in some measure disguised, but they recognized each other as they were about to pass, ** Well, did you get your man?” asked Billy, **'You know well enough we didn’t,” was the snapped response, ** How was that?” “He wasn’t there to get. I[ tell you, Weston, that fellow has got a whole detective force at his back.” ‘* What makes you think that?” ** Look at this and see for yourself.” As he ke he took from his pocket a paper very similar to that which Billy bimself had re- ceived from the fellow on the street a few min- utes before, It read about the same, too, as follows: “Mr. CHANNING:— “You had better drop out and not meddle with what does not concern you. Many a good man has come to grief by being over-curious, Take a gentle hint and drawoff. Determinedly, L, I.” Broadway Billy laughed as he read. ““What are you grinning about?” Channing demanded, ‘**'To think how helpless we seem to be in this affair,” answered Billy, ‘‘See here.” He handed Channing the missive he had re- ceived, ** Well, I'll be hanged!” the detective cried. ** How and when did you get this thing?” Billy explained, ““Same way I got mine. And the fellow was gone the next minute, Billy, 1 want to know what sort of a mess we have got into, anyhow?” ‘“* It begins to look asif we have stirred upa hornets’ nest,” was the young Retriever’s re- sponse. * You are right. this before.” “You are going to drop it, of course.” “* Drop it!” cried Channing, “Iam going to have that Russian, Billy, if I have to scour New York to find him.” “Can you swear that he is in New York?” asked Billy. The man’s face darkened, **Confound it, no!” he cried. all trace of him, now, And no way of finding him, either, that I can see.” “‘ And 1 have got slightly the advantage of you, too, for I have seen him,” Billy reminded. **'Yes, that’s so, And, if you run across him again you'll be wise enough to scoop him in, won’t you!” “Pll try it, anyhow. He would have been scooped before, if I had had any idea of this, That is, if bis followers didn’t down me when tried it on, as perhaps they would bave done.” ** Az likely as not, for he is well backed. Pleas- ant, isn’t it, to know you are being shadowed by men unknown to you, and not to be able to put a finger on one of them,” ‘Yes, very. But, Channing, they made a mistake.” Tn letting us know it, eh?” ‘Exactly, Now, take your case: the inspec- tor can set two or three good men to follow you about for the purpose of detecting the men who shadow you, and the first our Russian friend knows he will be in limbo.” “ That’s a good idea, Billy. I hadn’t thought of it. But, what will you do? Yow haven't any one to do the same for you.” *“*Haven’t I? I have gota pairof Beagles that are worth their weight in gold.” + a mean the boys?” “ es,” Channing smiled, . ** You seem to have great confidence in boys,” he observed. “I know what boys can do,” Billy responded. “T have some recollection of a chap called Broadway Billy. He could do work that I can- not do now, In order to have the advantage of his help I have found a fellow to take his place, My Happy Harry is as near whut he used to be I never found anything like * Wo have lost — Broadway Billy’s Beagles. as possible, And as for Silent Seth, as we call him, he is not second to Harry in anything. Get a good boy and try him, and you'll think as much of their help as I do.” ** All of which speaks well for what Broadway Billy used to be.” ‘Broadway Billy had his faults, Channing, but be generally got there in some fashion or other,” ** Yes, that’s so. do now?” “‘Tam going to give it up and go home, No use trying to work when you have nothing to work on, and know your every step is. being dogged.” ‘I agree with you there,” They talked on for a few minutes fonger, when they parted, each going his way. Billy went home. There he fourd supper and Happy Harry awaiting him, “Hello, Harry,” Billy exclaimed, ‘* your trail was not a long one, it seems, ‘* Where have you been?” ** No, it wasn’t long,” agreed Harry, * but it was full o’ meat. As I have somethin’ to say | s’pose you'll ‘low me to talk, won’t ye?” “Talk away, for I know you would die if you couldn’t talk, You are not Silent Seth, by any means, What have you learned? Let me have the facts allin alump, Go ahead,” Thereupon Harry told what he had been doing, and more at length than we have space to quote, He had followed Jarvis Bunting to his lodging- place, where, ascertaining that it was his lodging- place, he learned also that he was there known as Robert Shephard, There was sométhing crooked about Mr, Bunting, sure, Well, what are you going to CHAPTER XIV. TAKES A SERIOUS TURN, ‘* AND there you gave up the trail, eh?” ob- served Billy, when Happy Harry had told his story. ‘* Yes, sir; didn’t see any use waiting around any longer. We can pick up Mr. Bunting at any time, and I thought maybe you would have somethin, more ’portant for me to do,” ‘Well, you did right. Iam anxious now to hear from Seth, for the Russian bas given us the slip, and unless Seth was in time I am afraid he is lost and it may bea hopeless chance for our finding him again,” So, while they ate supper, Billy told all about the case and what had taken place, ‘Til tell you what it is,” spoke up Roger Watts, ‘‘ you will have to call on me yet, Billy, before you can bring this thing to a head.” ‘* Wouldn't wonder if I didn’t have tu get out my whole force,” answered Billy. ‘“‘IfI get you and Fatty-Skinny on the trail there will be something done, sure enough.” Mr. Watts, it will be remembered, was pow the head of the family, having become Billy’s father-in-law, About the time the meal was over there came a ring at the bell. ‘* Wouldn’t wonder if that’s Seth, now,” said Billy. He pulled the wire that unlocked the door be- ow, and soon after there camea timid tap at the door of the apartments, Opening it for the applicant, Broadway Billy found there a ragged little urchin. ‘* Are you Mr, Weston?” the lad asked, “That’s my name,” answered Billy. ‘ What do you want?” ‘* Here’s a note for ye, then,” With that the boy produced a piece of com- mon brown paper and gave it to Billy and turned to go, ** Hold on just a second,” Billy ordered. He did not mean to let the messenger get away from him till he had found out hon the note was from, at least, Opening it he read: “Mr. W.:— “)’ve got him yet. You had better come, a igs And that was all. Not a word to tell him where he should come to, Onturning the paper over, however, Billy found a street and ntintine noted, you been paid for bringing this?” ‘* Have Billy then asked of the boy. ‘You bet,” was the response. ‘* Wouldn't brought it at all if it hadn’t been paid fer, I thought be was kiddin’ me,” * All right, then, you may go now,” Billy turned back into the room, and the boy went off, **Good for Seth!” Billy exclaimed, in time, and our game is still in sight.” ** He was - 11 ‘* And what are ye going to do?” asked Harry. ‘* Why, I’m going there, of course.” ** But, you said you 8°posed somebody was shadowing you here; how will you shake him off?” ‘“T hadn’t forgot that. I’m going to disguise and go out the rear way and get out upon the next street. [Jl trick bim once, anyhow,” ** And what am I going to do?” “You go there now, and be ready to help in whatever is needed. 1’ll put on my old man uis- guise and you'll know me.” “All right, I’m off, you bet.” ‘* Here, take this basket with you,” said Billy, ‘and goin the corner store with it. If they are watotiog you, too, you can baffle them by slip- ping out from tbe store by the side way.” “That’s the stuff, but it isn’t likely they care anything about a kid like me. It’s only big game they want,” ** Don’t be too sure of that,” cautioned Billy. **-You may find yourself in their hands before you know it.” Harry went out with the basket, and Billy prepared his disguise. In the mean time, Silent Seth had been putting in a good stroke of work in the interesta of the cage, When he returned to the house where Billy had left the Russan, as Billy bad directed, he had not Leen a great while there when the man left the house with bis baggage in hand, Seth followed him, until finally he located him in another house in an entirely different quarter of the city. The man had not gone there alone, but ac- companied by another man, and shortly after their arrival this man, and yet another left the house and went away in haste. The Silent Shadower bad made sure that neither was the Russian, and it was easy enough to be sure on that bead, for neither was so tall as Ivanovitch, And being sure, he waited and watched. The Russian did not appear, but after awhile otber men began to go into the house, until at least a dozen bad entered, Seth made up his mind that it was high time for him to notify his master, and did so in the manner we have shown, After that the silent partner had nothing to do but to wait and watch, Time passed, and hisstomach was beginning to suggest supper, but the boy bad no idea of leay- ing his post for that, Several more men had by this time entered the house, and Seth believed that a meeting of some sort or otber must be in progress witbin, What it could be be had no idea. He was still faithfully at bis post when Happy Harry arrived, Harry came along, and without appearing to. notice Seth, sat down on the curb quite near to where the Silent Shadower was standing, ‘*The deuce is to pay, Seth,” he remarked, Seth was silent, **Do you hear me?” Harry demanded, “ec Yes.” ‘*It’s a wonder you wouldn’t say so, then, I say the deuce is to pay.” ‘What's the matter?” ** The Russian has got his buzzards after Billy —I mean the boss, and are going to make it hot for him.” No comment, ‘* Why the dickens don’t you say someth.n? so’s a fellow kin know ye are alive?” Harry growled. “Pm listening, “Glad to know ye are, Well, they have warned him to draw out of the yame or they will do bim up, and I s’pose that means you and e, too. ‘They’ ll find we don’t scare,” “Hello! you did speak once, didn’t you, You bet they'll find we don’t scare worth a cent. But, Seth, you and [ must see to it that our boss don’t git hurt in this p'izen business,” ** We'll try to, anybow.,’ ‘*He is comin’ along pretty soon to see you, si V'll keep watch while you go and talk with im,” ‘‘T was waiting for you to tell me whether he got my note or not,” Waitin’ for me to tell ye! Why didn’t ye ask me?” ‘““T knew you would tell all you knew, if I gave you enough time.” ‘‘Blast your impudence, anybow, Seth! Say, ou are the queerest boy I ever knowed in my Hor DS tell ye what you was cut out for, Seth waited to be told. ‘You was cut out to bea high philosopher, a Slate Gi a ea aa og ATR hy Nip Relea ASB 4) ay
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i 12 SS a San abnininiiiiiennmenmeannme ‘that’s what. You had better give up this busi- mess and take up that branch o’ study yet.” Seth smiled, ‘‘Let’s stick to business,” he made response. *‘How would you know the man if you saw | him?” ** By the description I have had of him from you and Billy.” ‘* Well, here’s a thought that’s struck me: S’pose you go aud meet the boss and tell him how things are, and tell him to stop there at the corner, If he wants me to leave my post, Dll go there and see him while you watch, That is, if he’s willing.” * All right, ['ll do that, Don’t talk too much while ’m gone, Setb; keep your jaws in work- ing order to answer the questions the boss will want to ask,” Harry was off at once, Seth remaining deter- minedly on guard, In about ten minutes Harry was back again.” It was that season of the year when the days ‘are short, and it was growing dark. “Tt won’t work, Seth,” Harry said. ‘‘ Boss don’t want you to lose sight of the wanif he leaves the house, and he’s afraid I might not get onto bim sure enough to make a certain job of it.’ ** What then?” Seth could ask that, since it was highly im- portant tbat be should kuow at once what Billy desired him to do, ** Why, you are to tell me everything, and i'm to carry the word to bim. Then he won't be seen here, but will be free to act in whatevor way is necessary.” ‘That beats our plan all hollow, Harry. Tell him I have followed the man to this house, and that about a score of others bave gone in, It looks as if they were having a meeting.” **Is that all? I expected you had a story a yard long.” ** That’s all of it, in few words, more than the bare facts.” ‘*Mebby you are right, my royal pnilosopher. T'll carry the news to Mary in about two kicks of a sparrow.” And away Harry went, No use tellin’ Broadway Billy’s Beagles. was taken, Seth looked about him keenly. An- other carriage was approaching, quite near the aie and two men were walking along abreast of it. Seth made up his mind quickly what that meant, He was in for it, sure, Pretending not to be looking, he nevertheless kept close watch upon the two men, and as they drew near he saw them step a pace apart hold- ing a blanket between them, The imperturbable boy did not move, but wait- ed for the full development of their scheme, and it soon came. With a bound the two men sprung at him, the carriage at the same time wheeling to the curb and stopping, and had he not been on his guard his fate would have been certaip, : As it was, Le simply stepped around the lamp-post, at the last moment, without the least appearance of haste in his movements, and the two men imply flung their blanket around the post, neatly baffl-d. A muttered oath escaped each of them. ‘*What’s the matter?” Seth coolly asked. ‘* You fellows trying to steal Jamp-posts?” With another oath one of the men dropped his side of the banket and made aspring at bim, but Seth dodged, and diving under the horses’ bellies put himself on the opposite side of the team, Had this been Happy Harry, what a talking there would have been for a few minutes! The men made one more effort, one springing to the rear of the carriage while the other went around in front of the team, but when they met their game had disappeared. It bad all taken place in a few minutes, yet already quite a number of persons were On the spot; and baffled, and not daring to remain longer upon the scene of their defeat, the men sprung into the carriage and were driven rapid- ly away, while Silent Seth was hanging under- neath the vehicle. In his case the game had worked in an entire- ly different way, The carriage bowled along at good speed, as if to baffls pursuit, and was soon out of the neigh- When he neared the corner again he was just | borhood, leaving the witnesses to think what in time to witness something of an exciting na- | they might of the unusual proceeding. ture. He saw Broadway Billy in the grasp of two powerful men, and before he coyld do or say anything, saw him bustled into a carriage, in spite of his struggles, and the carriage was driven rapidly off. What todo Harry did not know, for the mo- ment, To keep pace with the carriage was impossi- ble; he was bound to lose it before he could fol- low it a block. Then, too, it was too far away for him to raise an alarm. The uext moment he sawa policeman running to the corner where the ab- duction had taken place, ani decided to tell him all about it, who the abducted man was, and where the chief of the conspirators was to be found, He set out on arun, but he bad not taken a dozen steps when he, too, was seized, a blanket was folded around him, and before he could giake an outcry he wasina carriage himself, and was whirling away somewhere, The case had taken a desperate phase, and the Russian and his followers had decidedly the best of it. W hat did it al) mean, anyhow? CHAPTER XV. AMAZEMENT ALL AROUND, SILENT Seta was the only ove of the detec- tive crio at liberty. When Happy Harry left him, after hearing what report he bad to make to Billy, the Silent Shadow watched him as he hastened away. He was too distant to see what happened to Biliy, since, as said, it was getting dark, but when the men seized Harry he wa; still in sight, and Seth witnessed that. Seth was leaning idly against a lamp-post at the time, and although there was good occasion for his showing excitement, he exhibited none whatever. It was all done so quickly that it would have been useless for him to attempt to interfere, 809 he simply watched, It was the same with him as it had been with Harry upon seeing Broadway Billy set upon and taken off. He could do nothing, since it was useless for him to try to follow, ‘‘ Here is a go,” he said to bimself, in mind. *“*Tf they have taken Harry they will certainly be after the boss, and me, too. I'll watch outa dittie, I guess,” Having noted the direction in which Harry ee Let us return to Broadway Billy. Taken completely by surprise, there had been no chance given bim to resist, and in less time than it takes to tell it he was in the carriage in the grasp of two powerful men. As the carriage dashed along, he was bound and yagged, and so rendered utterly he)pless, Less then twenty minutes later the carriage stopped, and he was taken out. He found that be bad been driven into an inclosed court, where bis captors could act leisurely. Billy had only a vague idea where he was. He was hurried into a house by the rear way, and immediately taken to a cellar where he was bound to a post, evidently for temporary safe- keeping, A single gas-jet was burning, and by its light he saw another man in bis same fix, That man was Detective Channing, When he had been secured the men Jeft bim, and he and Channing were left to gaza upon each other’s misery in silence, since both were gagged, Nota word had been spoken, and they we e left to think what they might of their possible fate. Their reflections were not by any means encouraging, needless to say, Only a short time elapsed when steps were heard again, and another prisoner was brought in, This time’it was Happy Harry, who shared the fate of his master and the other detective, There they were, helpless and at the mercy of their unknown foes, We say unknown, because the case had as- sumed greater proportions than they had ever dreamed of, and they bad stirred up a nest of Mah where they had looked for nothing of the in It was about an hour later when one man was heard coming down into the den, and when he appeared it was found to be no other than the Russian, Ludvik Ivanovitch, He advanced straight to Broadway Billy and removed the gag from his mouth, “You have found,” he said, ‘‘ what it means to fight against me. You would not heed my warning, so you must suffer.” ‘“You seem to have the best hand, that is true,” answered Billy, in bis cool way. ‘What do you intend doing with us? We are, naturally, somewhat interested in that di- rection,” ‘* We intend todo you vo bodily barm,” was the answer, ‘* We bave outwitted you, and are satisfied with that. In forty-eight hours I leave the country, and within two hours after that you will be set free.” ‘¢ That is some satisfaction, anyhow.” ‘¢ Wo bave no intention of taking your lives, but we will hold you prisoners until you can do us no harm. You bave worked well, but you havo been fizhting against some of the best de- tective talent of Russia. You have lost, while we have won. It is cnough.” Billy was about to speak again, to demand some explanation, when he suddenly felt himself freed. A keen knife had severed his bonds, At the same moment—or the very next, more pro- perly—a youthful form confronte:! the Russian, arevolver was presented at his bead, and a voice declared, in low, but intense tone: ‘* ]f you move a finger you are a dead man!” It was Silent Seth! There was that about his threat which carried conviction with it, and the Russian hesitated, And ic this case, to hesitate was to be lost. The next moment Broadway Billy had sprung upon him, and handcuffs were upon his wrists, Tuis, however, while it made the man helpless, could not prevent bis giving an alarm, which he did. No sooner bad he handcuffed the man than Billy sprung to free Channing, while Seth did the same for Happy Harry, and in the next mo- ment, when steps were beard hastening to the scene, the four were prepared to show fight. None of them had been disarmed as it hap- ned. **Let’s act together,” cried Billy, ‘‘and we have got them all. They will not dare to fire for fear of killing their friend.” ‘‘Dare they not?’ cried the Russian, “Tl show you. I'll bid them sboot, for it_will be sweet to diein the cause of Nibilism! You are not masters of the situation yet.” ** Nibilists!” Sc exclaimed Broadway Billy, in surprise, “Yes, Nibilists; as you well know. We bave watched you ever since you were employed by the Russian consul to hunt us down,” ‘‘ Hold!’ cried Billy. ‘*One word before we fight!” The whole band were now in the cellar, and were covered by the weapous of Billy, Chan- ning, and the two Beagles. “‘T give you leave to speak that word,” said the master of the band. ‘ Then it will be a game of blood, Not a man of us but is ready to lay down his life, and we are more than four to one against you. Speak.” The coolness of the man was remarkable, but no more so than that exhibited by Broadway Billy and his backers, ‘What I want to say is this,” spoke Billy. ‘“‘There is a mistake somewhere, You accuse usof being after you because you are Nibilists, and you think I am in the employ of the Rus- sian consul, That is not so, We are simply after a murderer, and we have a clew that has led usto you.” ‘“‘That is hard to believe, sir. before this game of death begins. If bare one cf us escapes alive it will be enough, Count the chances well before you precipitate the struggle.” Coolly spoken, as ever. lt was a desperate mon:ent, ‘‘ Listen to what I say, then,” said Billy: ‘You have no doubt beard of the murder of Jabez Worthmore, who played chess with you in the shop of Polarovsky the shoemaker.” ‘‘Yes, unfortunate man, I have heard of that.” *¢ Did you kill him?” “71 Zkillhim? Sir, you amaze me! Iam as innocent of sucha crime as you undoubtedly are.” **Do you recognize this watch charm?” call ing attention to the coin upon his chain, ‘Is it not yours?” ‘Where did you get that? Yes, I do recognize it; it is mine,” Broadway Billy and Detective Channing were amaz-d. Proof enough, this, that the Russian was not the murderer, after all. ‘Well, sir,” said Billy, *‘ this charm was in tbe murdered man’s hand when he was found dead in hisroom. You can readily see the sus- picion which naturally followed.” ‘“‘T see, sir, and I understand. ButI do not seq how you have traced it to me, for I have been very cautious in my movements. I can give you ample proof that I am innocent of all knowledge of the murder.” CHAPTER XVI. ARRESTING THE CRACKSMAN, ‘*-You suy you are able to give me proof that ou are not the murderer,” observed Broadway Binly, keeping to the point, But, explain,
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Broadway Billy’s Beagles. 13 “ Yes.” “What is your proof, sir? If you are in- nocent, there is no reason why we should shoot holes into one another. You have admitted this watch-charm is yours, Can you explain how it came to be where it was found?” ‘That charm was stolen from me, together with my watch and cbain, on the very night the murder was committed,” **Can you prove that?” “Yes,” ‘*Tf you can prove it, of course that will clear ou.” 7 ‘*The proof I would offer must be the testi- mony of one of my men here present. Will you accept that?” ‘We will at any rate hear it, and will give weight to it according to its worth.” *That is alll ask, Bonoffsky, tell what you know. Gentlemen, this is one of the best detec- tives in our service. Hear him.” One of the men, a modest-appearing fellow, had stepped out from among the others with a Ww. **[ have the honor of having been the im- mediate cause of your being here,” he said, ‘I _ may also have the honor of practicing marks- manship with you if it comes to a fight which I hope it will not.” **Perbaps it will not, since it is plain there of been a misunderstanding all around,” said illy. **What you have beard said is true,” the man went on. ‘Mr. Ivanovitch was robbed of his watch and chain, and I have only just recovered them for him, except that charm you pow wear, sir. I believed the robber was holding that back, but he insisted that be bad been robbed of it bimself in turn.” *¢ And who was that man?” asked Billy. ‘He is known ,as Claude, the Cracksman, ‘Claude, the Cracksman!” cried Channing. “Weston, it is altogether probable that he is our man.” ‘*f believe he is,” said the Russian detective, “for he was willing enough to come to terms when I had traced the matter of the stolen watch to him, and there are some peculiar stains upon his coat.” *T must have him at once,” cried Billy, ‘*What understanding can we come at, Mr. Ivanovitch? I cannot allow you to go yet, for the proof you have offered must be verified. Have you anything to suggest? How will it do for me to go and find this fellow—” ““Give you the chance to bring a force of lice here, and so cut off our chances? Hardly. have as good reason to doubt you as you have to doubt me, No; but I will agree to have you and Bonoffsky go out together, find and arrest the man, and bring him here, when you can prove what I have stated—” ‘* And so give you so much more the mastery of the situation here, eh?” said Billy. ‘Well, then, what will you do about it?” “‘T will suggest something else.” ** Do so.” “Tt is to your interest to bring this proof. Send a man out to find the Cracksman and bring him here, when, if we can accept your proof, we will come to an understanding.” ©) will do that on one condition, sir.” ** And what is that?” *“T will tell you: Iam innocent of the crime, end am not afraid to be taken under arrest; but I am involved in Nibilist undertakings/ and for that reason must keep myself at liberiy. I must sail from New York on the Vishna to- morrow without fail, or our loss will be great. Promise me that you will take no steps against us that will involve us with the police for these abductions, and we will join you heartily in bunting down the murderer, What do you ay?” cf What shall we say, Channing?” asked Billy. “ Accept the terms,” was the response, ‘ We cannot afford to hold out, for it is certain we have been on a false trail.” “Very well, I will agree to that,” Billy made answer to the proposal, “* You swear to keep your word?” “ 1 do,” “That is enough, then. I believe you. I will allow you to take me to your office, where I will remain under guard while you find the man who robbed me, In the mean time my men will re- move my effects to the ship, and with the help of Bonoffsky you cannot fail to get the mur- derer. When you have got him, and have put the crime on him, it is to be understood that I am to go free at once,” 2 »” said Billy. “That is better than a fight here, in which a good many of us would es 9 Se eS ee Ee ee ~ s S a epee SS eee 8 a ee ae ee eS eee go down. Let’s go about the business that way.” And in that manner it was arranged. The Russian was taken to Billy’s office, where he was left under the guard of Channing and Silent Seth, while Billy, Happy Harry, and the man Bonoffsky, set out upon their mission of finding Claude, tbe Cracksman, The Russian having hac dealings with the rascal so recently, knew pretty nearly where to find him. They went to a certain unsavory quarter of the city, where they entered a disreputable den, and there was their man, me Claude the Cracksman, as the fellow was known, was just what his appellation implied, and was well known to the police of the me- tropolis, At sight of the Russian detective, his face paled, and he appeared wonderfully uneasy. He looked toward the rear, as if calculating an escape that way. Bonoffsky made a sign to bim, and he and Billy advanced to where the fellow was seated in company with some others, making merry with what was evidently the proceeds of his crime, ‘“* What d’ye want?” he asked at once. ‘‘ Nothing, myself,” answered the Russian, “but this gentleman would like to havea few words with you,” a Well, what der you want, young feller?” to illy. ‘Perhaps you would rather have me explain my business in private,” Billy responded, ** Naw,” the fellow said disdainfully, ‘‘ These here blokes is friends o’ mine, and I ain’t got no business with any feller what they can’t hear if they want to, G» right abeund.” Billy and the Russian saw the rascal’s game at once, He had no idea of getting beyond reach of assistance, for he no doubt thought his friends would stand by him if any trouble was coming. “Very well, have it that way if you want to,” Billy accepted, ‘It is all the same to me, ill you please tell me whether you ever saw this before or not? 1 would like to know,” As he put the question he lifted bis watch chain and displayed the charm, At sight of the Russian coin the fellow’s face grew ashy, and he gave a great start and got upon his feet, ‘*T see that it is perfectly familiar to you,” observed Billy, coolly. ‘*Now, I would like to ask you further where you lost it. Be careful how you answer.” Every man and woman in the place was now interested, and were pressing near to learn what it all meant, Billy and the Russian bad their backs to the wall, so they could not be attacked from the rear. ‘“*] never seen it afore in my life,” the fellow bogen to deny, but the Russian quickly caught m up. ‘* Hold on there,” he interrupted, ‘‘ Thisis the charm that was on the chain of the watch you stole, and you said you bad lost it.” “*T thought you said vou hadn't nothin’ ter see me fer,” the fellow parleyed to gain time so that he might get his thoughts together and invent a story. ‘ This ain’t nu square deal, this ain’t.” **' You haven’t answered my question,” Billy urged, ‘* Naw, and mebby I won't, ’uther. Who are you, anyhow, and what right have ye got ter come here and question me?” ‘* My name is Weston, but [ am better known as Broadway Billy, if it will do you any good to kpow that,” The fellow grew more pale than ever, and a murmur ran round the group. ‘* Well, I—I lost it,” the rascal averred, “I told this bere gent that I’d lost it, and so I bad, Ain’t that all there is of it? How can I tell just where I was when [ lost it?” : ‘* Tell me, then, what are thess spots on your coat bere?’ Billy demanded, and be pointed accusingly at some dark stains on the man’s sleeve. Perspiration was now breaking out upon the fellow’s face, and he was becoming desperate, The other men around, or some of them at any rate, were looking on with dark brows, appar- ently ready to resist an arrest if it was coming to that. ‘“‘Them?”? the accused man said, looking at the stains. ‘‘Them? Why, them’s dirt, that’s al), What d’ye take 'em fer? See here, young feller, what do you mean, res pie It was the last bold effort, the last stand that could be made before the terrible accusa- tion he knew was coming. ‘Ti tell you what I mean,” answered Billy, i ee See han ———— Eee eee and he laid bis powerful band upon the man’s shoulder. ‘‘I arrest you for the murder of Jabez Worthmore.” ‘*T didn’t do i:!” the fellow cried in the most abject terror, ‘‘I never done it atedl! You ain’t got noright ter say { done it—you ain’t. got no proof that I done it—you ain’t—” ‘« Hold on there,” Billy ordered. ‘If you did not do it, how came this coin in his hand when he was found dead? And how came his blood upon your coat? You did it, of coarse you did; and bere isa pair of bracelets that will just fit ou. Now, what have youtosay— Ha!” At that instant some of the men sprung for- ward with oaths, to grapple with the detectives: aod overcome them, Broadway Billy was quick to see it, however, and having bandcuffed bis prisoner he was quicker still to draw a brace of revolvers and present them to the fore. The Russian was only a couple of seconds be- hind him in that performance, and they held the crowd covered neatly, the cowardly wretches falling back in haste to get out of range if possi- le. “Interfere at your peril,” warned Billy,, sternly, ‘‘ This man is my prisoner, and I am going to takehim out of here, Out of the way every man and woman of you, or it will be the worse for you. Harry, you open that door and shut it as soon as we pass through.” Happy Harry sprung to obey, but at that moment something happened, The light went suddenly out, and a rush was made upon the detectives and their prisoner, CHAPTER XVII. THE FIGHT IN THE DARK. SoME person, some one other than those whom the detective held covered with their weapons, had turned out all tbe gas at once, apd the. darkness came upon them suddenly, And with the going out of the lights a woman’s yolpe was heard calling out in a high, shrill ne: “Now ye have ‘em, my dearies; now ye can do them up! If there are not enough of yous to: get away with two men and a boy, you are no good atall, Go for them, and into the dump with ’em,” ** You had better be slow about it,” warned: Broadway Billy, immediately. ‘‘ We are arm- ed, and it will be death to the first one who lays: a band upon us. No you don’t, my birdie,” to the prisoner, who was making an effort to get. away. “I’ve got you, and l’m going to take you out of here dead or alive.” Tbe Cracksman was making a determined effort to break away from him, but the young detective quickly bad his strong hand upon bis neck and brought him to time for the moment, Meanwhile Happy Harry was fumbling for the door, and finding it now, he opened it and shouted: ‘*Come on, boss! Here’s the door, wide open! Rightthis way with the lunk, and we'll more oe make the fur fly if any one tries to stop us!’ Just as he finished there was the sound of a heavy slap, and Happy Harry was sent reeling back out of the way in a most inglorious manner, while the woman’s voice called out again: “Go for them, I tel) you! Don’t let them take Claude away, for he is one of my friends, Shop gag dearies, and pitch them into the ump!’ * Out of the way,” warned Broadway Billy, ‘for there will be a sort of dumping bere that you are not prepared for.” Barely a balf minute had elapsed since the going out of the lights, bardly time for recov- ery and action, yet neither Billy nor the Russian: was idle, The latter had been groping for the prisoner, having ben further from him than Billy at the first, and now seizing him by an arm, he assisted ay in dragging bim in the direction of the oor, “* Ts that you, Bonoffsky?’ Billy asked. ‘* Yes, it’s I,” the answer, ‘* Let’s hasten to get out.” But the woman had how roused the band of rascals to action, and the detectives were set upon on all sides at once, They struck out, using their clubbed weapons, and one or two of the rogues wentdown. The main object was to get out with the prisoner, and that as soon as possible. This was just what the woman and her min- ions endeavored to prevent, and under her urg-. ings the rascals sprung upon the detectives again aud this time with renewed determination, and
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’ | { Broadway Billy’s Beagles. Billy and Bonoffsky were forced to let go of their man and defend themselves, By this time Happy Harry had picked himself up, aud although a little dazed for a second he knew he bad a part to play in that game, He heard the struggle going ov, with the blows falling thick and fast, and a curse ora groan following each blow, and one or two heavy tbumps told of some man’s going down, Harry could seé nothing, of course, and hardly knew in what part of theroom he was, He felt in his pocket for a match, and finding some, made haste to light one, to throw a little light upon the situation. And as he did so an exciting scene was revealed. In the midst of a group of angry men and furious women were Broadway Billy aad his Russian ally, fighting desperately, each with a revolver in use as a club, and on the floor were two or three who had gone down under their blows and who were groping around in a dazed manner trying to get out of the melee, And the prisoner at the same time was groping along the wall trying to find his way out. All this Happy Harry was quick to take in, and the next moment he had to extinguish the light and look out for bimself. The woman proprietor of the den bad looked to gee where the light had come from, and seeing him, sprung at him with an angry snarl, ‘** It’s you, is it!” she cried. ‘* I’ll soon fix you, youlittleimp! You won’t light no more matches, you aa bet you won’t!” ‘¢Come on, you old witch!” Harry retorted. ‘‘ Here I am, and this is a game o’ blind man’s buff, Right this way, now, but I'll bet you don’t find me when you get here, dearie!” He heard the woman close to him, when he suddenly became silent and dodged, while she crashed against the wall with conziderable force, setting up a howl at once and sending forth a volley of imprecations upon the author of her mishap. Harry was silent, then, with an object in view. He was determined the prisoner should a escape, and hastened to where he bad seen im, The fight was going on hot and furious the while, and the poise had grown to such a degree by this time that it must soon draw attention from without, And of a sudden a whistle was sounded, It was by Broadway Billy. Taking advantage of a second’s relief, he had applied his police whistle to his lips and sounded the sbrill call for help. Once again its ear-splitting note rung out, when he was set upon anew and had to dash into the struggle afresb, In feeling for the handcuffed prisoner, Happy Harry came first in contact with a door, and his hand fell upon a key that was in the lock, He had noticed this key before the lights went out, and knew it was a rear exit, and now with quick decision be turned the key and locked it, putting the key in his pocket. The very next moment the groping prisoner reached the door; his manacled hands grasped the knob, when, finding the lock sprung, an oath of disappointment escaped him, At the same moment Happy Harry set upon him and drag- ged him to the floor. The boy meant business now, Not more than three minutes had passed, if indeed so much time, and through all the strug- gle the Russian and Billy had maintained an al- most perfect silence, only speaking often enough each to apprise the other of bis position. ‘ nae however, the Russian sounded a call for elp, “This way, friend!” he cried, This way, or ’m—” His cry ended with a choking gurgle, and Broadway Billy feared a knife had done its work, With a desperate effort he thrust his foes from him and sprung to the rescue, stumbling when he came to the wriggling forms on the floor, but quickly recovering and feeling for his partner. It was but the work of a moment to locate him, with the three or four men who held him down, These the young Hercules laid hold upon, jerking them from their victim and sending them crashing to the wall, Billy had hardly known how strong he really was, When three of the fellows had been disposed of thus, tbe Russian made an effort and got up, casting the others from him, and the fight was begun over again, Broadway Billy was all the time reaching for his prisoner, and every man he came 3 against he felt to learn whether he was hanicuffed, By this time it began to dawn upon Billy that “Tm downed! possibly the fellow had escaped. He had not seen him during the brief seconds the match lighted up the scene, but that light and Happy Harry’s voice, had assured him that Harry was alive, and he now called out to him: * Harry?” “ Right here, boss!” was the response, Harry had overcome the handcuffed man, and now had him by the heels, and was preparing to drag bim across to the other door. ** Don’t let that man get out of here,” Billy or- dered. ‘‘Get hold of him and hang on to him like a bulldog. Knock him on the head if you find it necessary; anything to keep him—” Another onset cut Billy’s words short. **T’ve got bim,” assured Harry. ‘‘ I’)l eat him whole before [ll give him up, you bet on that!” *“*You will, hey?” cried the voice of the she devil proprietor of the den, ‘ Itis there ye are, hey? Ill fix ye this time!” She was running forward in the dark while she spoke, and came suddenly to grief. A man whom the Russian had just sent spinning toward the wall collided with her, and both went to the floor in a confused heap, where they mingled their imprecations freely, appy Harry wanted light, Lut if was no time then for him to think of making it, He bad his prisoner on the floor, and had hold of his feet, and was prepared co give him a free sleigh-ride across the floor. He started at once for the opposite door, and brought up against the wall, but near the de- vba point, and, feeling quickly, found the nob, Just then Billy’s whistle sounded again, in the midst of the uproar, and a response to it was heard from without, This made things lively, as can be imagined. The rascals fought more desperately than ever, some of them with the one desire to escape. “Have you got the prisoner, Harry?” Billy called out, “Bet your necktie I have, boss!” was the cheery response, ‘* Allright. Hold fast to him like a miser to money, and we'll soon come out on top,” ‘* Hold out it is, chief! The jeebeeb has got there with both feet, you bet. Selah!” There had been no firing during the fight. Neither side could afford to take the risk of tbat. Now came a crash at the front doors, followed by the heavy tread of feet, at which the rascals made a dash for safety. ‘‘This way,” called out one, ‘* This way! We'll get out the rear door and be off.” ‘* Yes,” piped up the woman proprietor, ‘‘ take care of yourselves, dearies,”’ One reached the rear door, but only to find it locked; whereupon went up a how! of rage, in- ‘* No opsn—no scoot yet!” cried Harry, in de- light, ‘I have got the bulge on you there. Come here, boss, and hold this door: we've got ’em all, I have locked the other one,” ‘*Good for you!” cried Billy. ‘‘ We'll scoop therm all, for here is the force, Now, you devils, the first who attempts to use a weapon, when light comes, [li drop in his tracks! You know Broadway Billy, so don’t try it on.” CHAPTER XVIII. CONCLUSION. Tux policemen were in truth at hand, and as they entered the darkened room Broadway Billy struck a match and threw some light upon the scene, “ Officers,” he said, ‘I’m Billy Weston, or Broadway Billy. I want you to take every man and woman in this place, except my prisoner there, and lock them up under the charge of re- sisting an officer.” ‘* We'll do it, and glad of the chance!” one of the policemen cried. ‘‘I have been waiting to get a crack at this den.” Billy bad turned the gas on again and the place was alight once more. The up of scamps, both men and women, huddled in one corner, save the prisoner whom Harry stijl had by the heels and one other man who was senseless on the floor, and the police had no trouble in taking them. The den was cleared out and closed up, and the prisoners taken to the nearest station, while Billy and his two allies bore their prisoner away with them. He was taken at once to Billy’s office, where a confession was forced from him as soon as the roof was brought to bearagainst him, He was man; there was no doubting that fact, He confessed that he had robbed the Russian of his watch and chain, and that he had them on at the time when ke killed the man. In the struggle Mr. Worthinore tore off the charm, and after that he, the murderer, pawned the watch assoon as possible, The Russian detective bad found the watch in pawn, and by it had tracked itto him as the robber. He stated that he knew Mr, Worthmore’s habit of collecting his rent upon a certain day, and resolved torelieve him of it. He entered the house with a latch-key which he had pre- viously taken from his victim, and made his way to his sleeping room. He thougbt the man was asleep, but found him awake, and before he could withdraw Mr. Worthmore grappled with him and be killed him. The confession was enough, and, true to his word, Billy allowed the Russian to go, Indeed, tbere was no help for it, and certainly no occa- sion to do otherwise, The Russian was a Nihilist agent who had come to America for the purpose of getting aid for the Nihilist cause. He had succeeded, and had a great amount of money to take away with him, Knowing that his Government had spies upon him, he had protected himself with a strong body-guard, and some of them seeing Billy at the office of the consul had formed the idea that he was in Russian employ to hunt them down. That suspicion had been strength- ened when they found he was really and de- terminedly after Ivanovitch. From the moment when the Russian left his oftice, Broadway Billy never saw or beard from him again, So far as proof agaiust the Cracks- man went it was not necessary, for Channing had been witness to all, Of course Billy kept the coin asa souvenir of the novel and exciting case, When the truth came out the newspapers gave Billy due praise, and the inspector com- plimented him eG Broadway Billy, though, took little credit to himself, declaring that his two boy assistants had done the greater part of the work, And even Chanuing admitted that Silent Seth bad proved a big factor in the game at the right moment, When the Cracksman was tried, the coin con- victed him, There was plenty of proof that it had been in his possession on the day of the crime, but even without the confession the rascal would have been convicted, The red bill-book was found in bis possession, with some of the money still in it, Jarvis Bunting and Ridley Ruffle were both arrested, and a case was made out against them, Bunting was an impostor, in no way related to Worthmore, and Ruffle was at the head of a conspiracy to get hold of the fortune. Their scheme was baffled and each received a taste of the law as it applied to his offense, As for the Cracksman, be would have come to the death- chair bad not death come to bim before the ap- pointed time, Tilly Tucker and ber Jover, Watson Barlow, were married, and soon settled down to enjoy the fortune that had so unexpectedly come to them. Tilly never knew the true reason why her master had been so kind to her, but her lawyer gave a hint, secretly, to a chosen few that Worthmore was, in truth, her, own fataer. Little more remains to be recorded, Broadway Billy not only complimented his ap- prentices highly, but alsof rewarded them sub- stantially. He now fully understood their worth, With them for coadjutors he felt that his own career was doubly assured of success, He had nothing but respect and reverence for] the “* phi- lesopher,” and froze to, him “like a country Jake to an ice-cream saloon,” as he expressed it. Seth said little, but there was no mistaking the regard he had for his chief and for Harry, The boy, so reserved in manner, was capable of great depth of feeling and both Billy and Harry soon learned to read him aright and to love him. The combination could not have been perfect | without him, THE END,
Page 15
ng Ne BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novels, 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince ot the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. aE Pewee ok ‘P Mhngeises ot, Buffaly Ben 5 Deadwood Dick in s Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; 0., The .«antom Miner. 49 Dendwood Dick In Danger; or, Omaha Oll. Be Deadwood Dick’sa Eagles; or, The Pardvot Flood Bar. 7B Dendwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity ¢ ne, the Heroine, He Renawesd pet? err re or, Corduroy Charlie. 0 eadwood eck in Leadville. nee paeewees Ld Nes De lee; ee) I'he Double Cross Sign. 4 Jeadwood Dick as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, The Gorgon’s Giilch Ghost. Deadwood Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Bill. 149 Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party, 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivuls of the Road. 201 Deadwood Dick’s Wards or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. tty ene wane picks oo rer caeeaiby tones Adventure, endw ood ck’s Dead Deal. 221 Deadwood Dick’s Death-Plant. 282 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Tougha, ace pesew ces pieke pieade, or, Fee Spirit of Swamp Lake. eadwoot ek’s Den rail. B09 Deadwood Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon, B21 Deadwood Dick’sa Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flata 847 Deadwood Dick’s Ducata; or, Days in the Diggings. ye meoaweed pies quences or, The Terrible Vendetta, endwoo ck’s Claim, 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonds, 421 Deadwood Dick in New Yorks; or, A “Cute Case,” ane peaewsed a 1 cAsycanh or, The Chained Hand, end woo: ek, Jr. Die} peadwees Dick, ores pomsnce. endwood r.’&, Full Hand. 459 Deadwood Dick, Ir.’s, Big Round-Up. 465 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Racket at Claim 10, 471 Deadwood Diek, Jr.’s, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. bi Desawecd Dick’. 3r;, in Deadwood ea ck, Jr., in Deadw . 491 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Compact. 4 ee no Rick Jr.'s, Pan eethanae, endwood Dick, Jr.'s, 5308 Deadwood Dick; Jr.’s, Deliverance, 515 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Protegee. 622 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Three. 529 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Danger Ducka ptt pone wees Dick, Jr.’a, Death Hunt, eadwoo ret a api Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidoog 5 endwo 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham, 561 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boston. Soe bestceed Boe 9 be ceececo endwoo ek r., in Chicago, BZS8 Deadwood Dick. Jr.. Afloat. &S4 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Denver. 590 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Decree. mae pean reee on 5 ne 1 pecinayeys Basin, endwoo ck, Jr., at Coney Island. 606 Deadwood Dick, gros, Leadville Lay. 612 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Detroit. G18 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Cincinuati. 624 Dendwood Dick, Jr., in Nevada, aoe Deadwood Dick, Jr., in No Man’s Land. G42 oe Zz x Deadwood Dick, Jr., After the Queer. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. ore mend wood een ra hay chase menoes the Constpeet oe end woo ek, Jr.» Among the Smu ers. 660 Deud yood Dick, Jr.'s, Seiaremed Senet 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines. 672 Deadwood Dick, Jr., tn Durango; or,‘ Gathered In.” 4 menawoes Bek png piscoverys or, Found a Fortune. eadwoo ck, dr.’s. Dazzle. 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s. Dollars. 695 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Danger Divide. 700 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Drop. 704 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. 710 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In San Francisco. 716 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hunt, 722 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dominoes, 728 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Disguise, 784 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Deal. 740 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathwatch. T47 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Doublet. Tb2z Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Deathblow. THR VDendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Desperate Strait, 764 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Lone Hand. 770 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Defeat. T76 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Resurrection, 782 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dark Days. BY J. ©. COWDRICK, Broadway Billy Novels, 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 514 Broadway Billy’s Boodle. B36 Broadway Billy’s * Difikilty.” 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 Dend Act. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad, 675 Broadway Billy’s Best; or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. 687 Broadway Billy in Clover. 696 Broadway Billy in Texas. 208 Broadway Billy’s Brand. Z1l Broadway Billy at Santa Fe. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand. Billy’s Business, y Billy’s Curious Case, 758 Broadway Billy in Denver. y Billy’s Bargain. 769 Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective, 77> Broadway Billy’s Shadow Chase. 288 Broadway Billy’s Beagles. Other Novels by J. ©. Cowdrick. 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery. 869 Shasta, the Gold King}; or, For Seven Years Dead, 420 The Detective’a Apprentices or, A Boy Withouta Name. 424 Cibuta Jonny; 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. Mart, the Night Express Detective. 571 Air-Line Luke the Young Engineer. 592 The Boy Pinkerton. 615 Fighting Harry the Chief of Chained Cyclone. 640 Bareback Beth, the Contaur of the Circle. $33 Typewriter Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward. 59 Moonlight Morgan, the “ Pizenest ’’ Man of Ante Bar. Published Every Tuesday. Hach Issue Complete a Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cloven Noof, 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. 53 Jblm Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team, 69 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The Boy Detective. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight, 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand. 88 Pheto $i Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance, 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull's Camp. 96 Wuatch-Eyey; or, Arabs und Angels of a Great City. 18 Jaek Hove the Young Speculator. 17 Gilt-Edgod Dick, the Sport Detective 21 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. 25 Bonanza Lill, Miner. 88 Boma Bob the King of Bootblacks. 41 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. 45 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective, 61 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. 77 Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, Tho Sierras Scamps, 181 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo, 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective. 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter, 226 Snoozer, the Boy Sharp; or, ‘The Arab Hesecline 286 Apollo Bll, the Trail Tornado. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator. 244 Storrs Ram, the Frontier Ferret. 248 Sierra Sam’s Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 258 Sierra Sawm’s Pard; or, The Angel ot Big Vista, 258 Sierra Sam’s Seven; 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 Dolls Drift: or. The Road Queen. 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the irl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 825 Kelley, Mickey & Co.,, the Detectives of Philadelphia. 880 Little Quick-Shot; or, The Dead Face of Daggeraville. 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miuer, 889 Kangaroo Kit’s Racket. 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood, Pet he ged yy Fred, i ire Gopher. 8 Vreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Life Lottery. 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize. F " B78 Nabob Ned; or, The Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance. B85 Yreka Jim’s Jokers or, The Rivals of Red Nose, 889 Bieyele Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lode, 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam, 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Harry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Slabaidea, the Beggar-Boy Detective, 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives, 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 486 Seulakin Sam, the Sparkier. rk ph ch sr her BY T. ©. NARBAUGH., 28 Nick o’ the Night; or, The Boy Spy of ’76, 87 The Hidden Lodge; or The Littl Hunter, 47 Vightingele Nats or, The Forest Captains, 64 Dand ack 3 or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Tralt. 82 Kit Harefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight Jack; or, The Boy Trapper. 106 Old Froaty, the Guide; or, The White Queen. 128 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch Jr. or, The Boy Vigiante. 155 Gold Trig er, the jg er, The Girl Avenger. 169 Tornado Tom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core. 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy. 198 Arkansayw ;: or, The Quen of Fate’s Revenge, 207 Navajo Nick, the Boy Gold Hunter. 215 Captain. Bullet; or, Little Topknot’s Crusade. 281 Plucky Phil; or. Rosa, the Re! Jezebel, 241 Bill Bravo; or, The Roughs of the Rockies. 255 Captain Apoliv, tne King-Pin of Bowle, 267 The Buckskin Detective, 279 Old Winch; or, The Buckskin Desperadoes, 204 Dynes te Dany or, The Bowie Blade of Gochetopa. 802 The untain Detective: or, The Trigger Bar Bully, 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizona, 826 The Ten Puardas or. The Terror of Take-Notice. 886 Big Benson: or, The Queen of the Larso. 845 Pitiless Matt; or, Ked Thunderholi’s Secret, BSE Cool * am and Pars o¢ The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captalo Cutlass: or, he B cenneer's Girl Foe. 896 Rough Rob: or, The | win Champions of Blue Blazes, 411 The Silken Lasso; or, The Rose of Ranch Robin. 418 Felix Fox. the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump. the Border Rattler, 486 Phil Fladh, 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 ix Fox’s Hunt. ATT? The Exceisior Sport; or, The Washington Spotter, A499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night rerret, 612 Dodger Blek, the Wharf-Spy Detective, $21 Dodger Dick’s Be: | Dedge. 528 Fox and Faicon, the bowery Shadows, 588 Dodger Dich, the Dock Ferret. 548 Dodger Dick’« Double; or, The Rival Boy Detectives, B58 Dodeer Dick’s Desperate Case, 568 Dodger Dick. the Boy Vidocq. 5678 The Two Shadows. BS2 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 Boy Hustler; or, Shadowing the Shadower. 685 Happy Hugh, the Boy Musician Detective. 701 Photograph Fred, the Camera Sharp. 715 Wide Awake Len, the Quaker City Ferret. 782 Dalay Dell, the Pavement Detective; or, Trapping B g Game. 742 Billy Winks, the Bell Boy Detective. 754 Billy Winks, the Boss Boy Shadow. 768 Eagle Ned, the Boy on Guard. 780 Tonkaway Tom, the Red Wizard. BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm. F. Cody), 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairle, 55 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout. 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust. BEADLE'’S«H ALF- DIME«[_ IBRARY. nad Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers. BY OCOOLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 7 The Flying Yankee; or, The Ocean Outcast, 17 Ralph Roy, the boy Buccancer; or, The Fugitive Yacht, 24 Diamond Dirk; or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone. 62 The Shadow Ship’ or, The Rival Lieutenanta, 75 Vhe Boy Duellst; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wollf. 02 Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Simuggier. 11 ‘Khe Sea-Devil; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy, 16 The Hussar Captain: or, The Hermit of Hell Gate. PT Little Grit, the Wild Rider; or, The Stock-Tender’s Daughter, 204 Buflaio Bill, the Pony Express Rider. 216 Bison Bill, the Prince of the Reins; or, Buffalo Bill’s Pluck, 222 Grit, the Bravo Sport; or, The Woman Trailer. 229 Crimxon Kate, the Girl Trier. 287 Lo Star, the Cowboy Captain; or, The Mysterious Ranchero 245 Merle, the Middy ; or, The Heir of an Ocean Freelance. 250 The Midahipinan Mutineer 3 or, Brandt, the Buccaneer, 264 The Floating Feather; or, Merle Monte’s Treasure. 269 The Gold Mhipt uw, Merle, the Condemned, 276 Merle Monte’s Crulacy or, * The Gold Ship” Chase, 280 Merle Monte’s Fate; or, The Pirate's Pride. 284 Merle Monte’s Pledge; or, The Sea Marauder. RS7 Billy Blue-Eyes, the Boy Rover. 804 The Dead 8S. ot Dandy 3; or, Benito, the Boy Bugler. BOS Dend Shot Dandy’s Double. 814 The Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Trail. 877 Benodel, the Buy Rover; or, The Flagiess Schooner, BS8 The Indlan Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island. B87 Warpath Will, the Traitor Guide; or, The Boy Phantom, 898 Seawalfy the Boy Lieutenant; or, The Red Clasped Handa. 402 Iavdor, the Young Consptirator ; or, The Fatal League. 407 The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta, 412 The Wild Yachtamany or, The War-Clouo’s Cruiso, 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 Captain Carl, toe Corsair; or, A Cabio Boy’s Luck, 487 The Sea Raider; or, The Hawks of the Hook, 441 The Ocenn Firefly : or, A Middy’s Vengeance, 446 Waphazard Harry; or, The Scapegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizard Will, the Wonder Worker, 454 Wizard Will's Street Scouts, 462 The Born Guldey; or, The Sailor Boy Wanderer, 468 Topsune. Ned, the Boy Conster. 474 Wizard Will’s Vagabond Pard. 458 Wizard Will's Last Case; or, Ferrets Afloat. 487 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 Mid«hipmany or, The Young Sea Ranger. Bil The Outlaw Middy; or, The Young Patriot Sea Ranger. 520 Buckskin BIL, the Comanche Shadow. 625 Brothers tn Buckskin; or, The Tangled Trails in Texas. 580 The Buckskin Bowers. B85 The Buc skin Rovers; or, The Prairie Fugitive. 540 Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder ot the Rio 545 Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. 550 Lafitte’s Legacy: or. The Avenging Son. 65S The Creole Corsair; or, The Golden Wings of the Gulf. 560 Pawnee BIT, the Prairie Shadower. 565 Kent Kingdon, the Card King. B70 Camille, the Card Queen; or, The Skeleton Trail. 575 The Surgeon-Scout Detecti-c. 680 The Outcast Cadet; or, The False Detective. B86 The Buckskin Avenger; or, Pawnee Bill’a Pledge. 591 Delmonte, tie Young Sea Rover; or, The Avenging Sailor. BY? The Young Texan Detective; or, The Black Brayos. 602 The Vagabond of the Mines. 607 The Rover Detective; or, Keno Kit’s Champions. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scout; or, The Rio Raiders. 644 Butterfly Billy's Debut. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Rider Detective; or, Buffalo Bill’s Boy Parad. * 656 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt, 662 Buttertly Billy’s Bonanza. 668 The Buccancer Midshipman; or, The Sea Kover’s Ruse, 674 The Wizard Sailor; or, Red Ralph, the Rover. 679 The Sea Shadowery; or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. 686 Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag; or, The Tarnished Name. 692 The Rival Sharps; or, Redfern, the Secret Service Scout. 697 The Scarlet Sombrero; or, The Sharp from Texas, 702 Blue Jacket BM); or, The Red Hat Rangers’ Red Hot Racket 707 The Red Sombrero Rangers; or, Redfern’s Last Trail. 718 Carl, the Mad Cowboy; or, The Lariat Queen. i 719 Pawnee Bill's Pledges or, The Cowboy Kidnapper’s Doom, 725 Daring Dick, Pawnee Bul’s Pard; or, The Red Cavalry Raid. 781 Ruth Redmond, the Gil Shadower, %87 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. 748 Buck Taylor's Boys; or, The Red Riders of the Rio Grande. VA9 Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trail. 756 Dashing Charlic’s Destiny; or, The Renegade's Cuptive, 760 Dashing Charlic’s Pawnee Pard. 266 Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer. 72 Dick Doom’s Death-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny. TZ Dick Doom’s« Destiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. TBA Dick Doom, the Death-Grip Detective; or, The Sharps andy Sharks of New York, By Col, Prentiss Ingraham, 785 Lone Hand Joe, the Committee of One; or, The Spook Steed of the Stone Corral. By Lieut, A. K, Sima, 286 Broadway Billy's Team; or, The Detective Combine’ Big Pull. By J. C. Cowdru k. Z8T Deadwood Dick, Jr.» Defleds or, The Prince of Pistol Pocket. By Eawsrd i. W heeler. 788 Dick Doom In Boston; or, A Man of Many Masks. By Col. Prevtisa Ingraham. Ready August 30. 789 Sam Sheridan, the Secret Service Speelal; or, The Janiborea at arly Bird Bar. By Wm, G, Patten. Rendy September 6. A New Issue Every Tuesday. The Half- Dime Library Is for axle by all newadealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mal] on recelpt of six conte cach. BEADLE AND ADAMB, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.
Page 16
roadway Billy Novels in feadle’s Fatt Jim ibrar By J. C. Cowdrick. 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo; or, Brought to Bay by a Bold Boy. 514 Broadway Billy’s Boodle; or, Clearing up a Strange Ca-e. 586 Broadway Billy’s ‘ Diffikilty ;” or, Old Rod- man’s Millions, 557 Broadway Billy’s Death Racket; or, The Street Arab’s Wake, 579 Broadway Billy’s' Surprise Party; or, The Caimney Spy. The oe Cite Caan Ao 605 Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big lnvings. 628 Broadway Billy’s Dead Act; or, The League of the Sworn Seven. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad; or, The Bootblack Bravo in San Francisco. 675 Broodway Billp’s Best; or, Beating San Francisco’s Finest, 687 Broadway Billy in Clover; or, The Ruction at Lake Tulare. 696 Broadway Billy in Texas; or, Rounding Up the Red River Rustlers. 703 Broadway Billy’s Brand: or, Tbe New York Delegates in Hard-up Camp, 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Pard Detectives’ Clever Deal. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand; or, The Gamin Detective’s Double Snap at Santa Fe, %%35 Broadway Billy’s Business; or, Waking Up Wind Canyon Camp. — —_ " - " | The Gamin Detective’s Double Snap at Santa Fe. 87 2. © CompRicK, or " PROAD WAT POLAT” a4 AL Mysterious Disappearance at Manitou Springs. 753 Broadway Billy in Denver; or, The On-the- Catch Combination. 762 Broadway Billy’s Bargain; or, The Three Detectives in Denver. 769 Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective; or, How the City Buzzards Were Brought In. 775 Broadway Billy’s Shadow Chase; or, Materi- alizing the Spocks. 783 Broadway Billy’s Beagles; or, The Detective Trio’s Uncanny Quest, Latest and New Issues. | 7%8 Highland Harrv, the Wizard Rifleman; or, Tough Times at Teton Pass, By O!l Coomes. 779 Iron Hand, the Charmed Detective; or, Saving the Senator's Daughter, By Geo, C, Jenks, 780 Tonkaway Tom, the Red Shadower: or Roundabout Ruth’s Pugrimage. Harbangb. By T. C, 781 Cast-Off Cale, the Scapegoat Detective; or, Sailing Under False Colors, By Jo Pierce. 782 Deadwood Dick, ‘r.’s, Dark .Days; or, The Tandem Team's Full Score, By Edward L, Wheeler, 783 Broadway Billy’s Beagles; or, The Detective Trio’s Uncanny Quest. By J, C, Cowdrick. * Hard-up Camp. ~~ eye 0. COWDRIC . ” eUTEOS Ge “whose s? Bay” OrmA BO The New York Delegatoo to | ' %84 Dick Doom, the Death-Grip Detective; or, The Sharps and Sharks of New York. By. Col, Prentiss Ingraham. | 785 Lone Hand Joe, the Committee of One; or, The Spook Steed of the Stone CorraJ. By Lieut. A. K. Sims. Ready August 9th, A New Issue Every Tuesday. BEADLE’s Hatr-Diuk Liprary is for sale by all newsdealers at five cents per copy, or sent by mail, post-paid, on receipt of six cents each, BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William street, New York,