Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 806) (1893 01 03)

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ee ey ye — ' ORO TT: SOT IRR Tord © TRENT f 1 AY S a WAS WZ ‘— SS — aay er DL? eet « AN \ es a ht! It i a att Dl a los. a NS Copyrighted 1898, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, a Year, No. 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 Cents. THE BOND OF BLOOD. BY WILLIAM G, PATTEN, AUTHOR OF “ VIOLET VANE” SERIES, ‘‘ CLEAR- GRIT CAL.” ‘* SAM SHERIDAN, THE SECRET SERVICE SPECIAL,” ETC., ETC. CHAPTER I. RAINBOW RANCH LOSES ITS MASCOT. ‘Gone to leave? Did I understand you-cor- rectly, Steve Norman?” “*T think you did, sir.” “ But—but—I—I don’t understand it! What do you want to leave for?” - ——- *T have very good reasons.” LEANING WELL OVER IN THE SADDLH, COWBOY STEVE GRASPED THE STOUT BELT ‘‘ Name them.” ABOUS IVA'S WAIST, ‘+ T am sure you will pardon me if I decline,

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_ ance, and my fortune changed almost imme- ‘enough at that point Milton’s fortune changed, -pealingly. the ranch-owner asserted. Mr. Milton. I will say, however, it is not on account of any ill-treatment I have received at Rainbow Ranch, I have nothing but the kindest feelings for you and for all who bave befriended me here.” Warren Milton, the owner of Rainbow Ranch, surveyed the young cowboy from head to feet, “ Again | must say I do not understand it,” declared the rancher, ‘‘I can see no good reason why you should leave. On the contrary, there are the best of reasons why you should remain, You scarcely look like the pitiful wreck who came here two years ago. You were then, apparently, in the last stages of consumption, and we took you in—” “ Don’t think I fail to appreciate that!” has- tily cut in the young cattleman, ‘ I can never forget all that you bave done for me; I shall ores remember your kindness and that of— va. ‘* Yes, my daughter nursed you like you were her own brother,” ‘“*Sbe saved my life, God bless her!” fer- vently. “‘T haven’t a doubt of it, Norman. She gave you the name of ‘the Ranch Mascot,’ for she declared you brought us good luck, I confess I was in a hard hole at the time of your appear- diately, Ever since you have been with us, fortune has smiled on Rainbow Ranch. I am not superstitious, but Iva’s repeated declarations that you are a mascot have made an impression on me, Isit more than natural that I do not wish to lose you?” For a moment the young cowboy was silent, as if pondering on the words he should speak, He was a handsome fellow, five feet ten, SESE and straight as an Indian. @ was not more than twenty-two or three years of age, but he was the picture of perfect manhood, In his cheeks was the flush of health, and it did not seem possible he had ever been ill a day in his life. And Cowboy Steve as he was called—Silver Spur Steve—was a person tocommand admira- tion. His plain cowboy garmenis fitted him un- usually well. The heels of his boots were adorned by silver spurs—for which reason the young man had won his sobriquet of Silver Spur steve, in all that wide expanse of ranch and range. Over young Norman there hovered an air of mystery, for he persistently avoided speaking of his past life, No one on Rainbow Ranch knew anything of him previous to his appearance there as a hopeless invalid, Warren Milton, the ranch-owner, looked more like a successful Eastern business man than a ranchman, and, in fact, the greater part of his money had been acquired in the East. He was about fifty years of age, slightly cynical and rather cold-blooded. Milton’s business traits so clung to him that he had caused a private office to be constructed in a small room of the ranch building, and there he could be found at his desk two hours every day. Far and wide he was known as ‘‘ the Tender- foot Rancher,” and as his early ventures in the cattle business had proved very disastrous through his lack of knowledge, the term seemed highly appropriate, t was just when ruin stared him in the face that Stephen Norman appeared, and singularly and it bad flowed in his favor ever since. Iva, the rancher’s handsome dark-eyed daugh- ter, firmly declared Steve was a mascot, and within her innocent little heart she devoutly be- lieved he had brought them good luck, ‘“ You must see I regret leaving you, Mr. Milton,” the young cowboy finally said, his eyes meeting the cold orbs of the ranchman, ‘It is not from choice, but—” “Tf you stay~—” **T cannot !” ‘*How much per month must I add to your salary?” Steve fell back a step, new color mounting to his face. Then he putout a shapely hand ap- **Canit be you really thought that of me?” demanded the Ranch Mascot. ‘ As if, after all you and Iva have done for me, I would attempt to work you in sucha manner! It is not possi- ble you imagined such a thing!” **] couldn’t seem to think of anything else,” “Tf that were true, I would be a most un- grateful wretch.” “IT have found very little gratitude in the world, Those whom one befriends the oftenest a the most liable to forget the favors done em, ~ SS . hope the time will come when I can convince you I speak the truth,” ‘* You might give me your reason for leaving.” **T assure you, I am not of that stamp. I Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. ‘*Nonsense! That’s all stuff! You said you dared not tell this person of your love,” “ True,” ‘*That’s where you're asilly fellow. A cha “Strange as it may seem to you, that is im- | who doesn’t bave pluck enough to tell a girl ix possible,” loves her isn’t a brave heart. I advise you to ““On, very well,” came frigidly from the | brace up and—” rancher’s lips, ‘*‘It is not customary for me to “It is not a case of courage—don’t think that, allow any of my men to know I wish to retain | There are other reasons,” them. I should have treated you like the others, You pave no reason to expect more considera- tion. Steve drew himself up proudly. ‘*T donot expect more, and I bave never given you reason to think so.” The lines on Milton’s face deepened a trifle. “‘I think you have been paid in full for all services?” “ Yes,” “* Your resignation is accepted, Good-day!” For a moment, the young cowboy hesitated, making a slight move as if to hold out his hand, Then he turned away, shaking his head, ** Good-day, sir!” The office door closed, and Silver Spur Steve was gone, ‘*T will get away as soon as possible,” mut- tered the young cowboy, as he burried toward hisroom, ‘I must not see Julia Ruthven again —nor Iva.” But, Iva was descending the stairs, and they came face to face, She was very pretty and not over eighteen. ‘*T have just been up to see Dick Clark,” she said. ‘‘ Poor Dick has been very sick, but he is better now. Why, how strange you look, Steve!” He had not intended to tell her, he had thought of leaving a note to her, but now the words forced themselves from his lips, ‘* Will you say good-by to Dick for me?” She fell back, ‘*Good-by?” she exclaimed. ‘*‘ Why—why, what—” “Tam going away.” “Going away. For how long?” ** Forever!” All the color left her face, “You cannot mean that!” she whispered, a choking sound in her voice, ‘' Why should you goaway? This is your home? Only last week you told me you had no other.” - ** Many things may happen ina week. Your father—” ‘* Ob, bas he done this? I will gotohim! He shall not turn you away! If he does, Pi—Tl leave, too!” Those words touched him deeply. _ “ Your friendship is dearer than all else in the world to me, lva,” he asserted, his voice trem- bling with earnestness and feeling, ‘*‘ Your father has not discharged me; I gave up my position.” ‘What could make you do such a crazy thing?’ she cried. ‘You shall not leave! I won’t let you go! Why, you are the best friend I have in the world, except father—” * And Julia?” ** You come before Julia, Steve.” Then she clasped his arm with both her hands, adding: ‘6 You shall stay!” He forced a smile, 4 ** You do not understand,” hesaid. ‘I would stay if 1 could, but, itis impossible. I must go at once.” ‘*But—but—but Julia,” she faltered, groping for some excuse to detain him, ‘* You have not said good-by to Julia,” ‘* Where is she?” ** She has gone out for a ride.” Had he spoken the feeling within his heart the expression would have been one of relief and thankfulness, **T cannot wait for her to return. express my regrets, Miss Milton.” : “ Miss Milton! Yesterday you called me va. ** Which was presuming.” “Which was nothing of the kind! call you Steve? Rainbow to lose its Mascot, You must Don’t I Ranch cannot afford You brought vs good luck, ‘Ts that the reason you wish me to remain?” “No, no, no! You know it is not! Once, not 80 very long ago, you spoke to me of—of—loving somebody.’ Her voice had sunk very low and her eyes were drooping, but she still clung to his arm. ‘Within his breast the young cowboy’s heart gave a great leap. | ** Yes,” he answered; ‘‘but that person is so os? very far above me! I was foolish— ma : ‘Tf the girl loves you, she'll have you for all of the other reasons,” **Oh, Iva, Iva! You must know the truth! There is only one girl in the wide; wide world, so far as I am concerned,” At this moment a new thought struck her—a thought that drove the blood from her cheeks, Why was he so anxious to get away from Rainbow Ranch since her friend, Julia Ruth- ven, had arrived? It had been a surprise to Iva when Steve and Julia met and recognized each other. They bad known each other in the past, but all the ques- tions of the rancher’s daughter had failed to draw the story from Julia’s lips. ** He loves her!” That was the thought which robbed Iva of her strenzth and silenced her tongue. Suddenly the young cowboy lifted one of her hands to his lips, As he did so, a quick step sounded close at hand, and they were confronted by Warren Milton, The ranchman was pale with passion. ‘ ‘*So this is the way the Jand lays!” he said, holding himself in check. ‘I now understand there is a very good reason why you should leave Rainbow Ranch, young man, The sooner you go, the better. Iva, come to me.” Rather rudely, he drew his daughter from the Ranch Mascot’s side, : Steve bowed, retaining his self-possession. ‘*T only ask to secure some little trinkets from Sk he said; *‘ then I will go.” wenty minutes later he was riding to the southwest, Rainbow Ranch at his back. CHAPTER II, THE ASHES OF A DEAD LOVE. ‘So ends another sweet dream!” muttered the young cowboy. ‘ Dearlittlelva! Dlinever see her again!” Once or twice he looked back at the familiar outlines of the ranch, It seemed like home to him, and he felt that he was leaving it forever. Suddenly he espied a saddled horse galloping wildly over the plain, its bridle-rein swinging ‘*What is the meaning of that?” he asked himself, as he wheeled his own animal to cut the other off. ‘*The creature has broken away from some one, and—it’s Iva’s horse!” As he approached the animal, he discovered the saddle upon its back was Iva’s, At first, he could not understand it, for he wassure he had left the girl at the ranch. Then a sudden thought revealed the truth to bim, ‘“Tya must have let Julia have her horse, | Something has happened to Julia Ruthven.” The animal seemed blind with fright, and Steve was obliged to use his rope in securing it, “She has been thrown from the saddle,” he decided, ‘*I wonder if she is severely injured.” He had hoped to escape meeting her again, but he could not go on his way without learning what fate had befallen her. Perhaps she was in danger and need of aid, Having quieted the frightened horse, he at- tempted to follow back along the trail the ani- mal had Jeft. This was not difficult, but it proved unnecessary. The distant report of a pistol reached his ears, coming, it seemed, from a little knot of timber directly in his path. ‘tT believe there is trouble there,” he muttered, lightly touching his horse with the spur, Sto was taking Iva’s animal along, the creat- ure having recovered from its terror, ' Straight toward the little patch of timber he dashed, making sure bis revolvers were ready for instant use, :

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ae » . —— ~ ue 4 Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot, 3 used the weapon effectually had it been a most deadly ‘* bulldog.” Pawing up the ground at the foot of the tree was a fiery-cyed black bull. Now and then the bull would rattle its outspread horns against the bark of the tree, or butt it so fiercely it seemed as if the girl would be shaken from her perch, The imperiled maiden saw Steve, and uttered acry of warning. ‘Took out! The creature is mad! Kill the nasty beast, or it will shake me down on those horns!” It took buta glance to convince the cowboy that the bull was indeed mad, for he had dealt with many such animals, on therange. He knew there was but one way to cure them, and one of his long-barreled revolvers left its holster for a place in his hand. The bull saw the new-comer and turned on him, its eyes glowing like two huge coals, every hair onits body seeming tostand out like a bristle, Shaking its hard head, the creature gave a wild snort that caused both horses to rear and shy. Then the led animal, once more overcome by fear, wheeled and broke away. A few cool words calmed the young cowboy’s own horse, ‘* Oh, do hurry and shoot the beast!” cried the girl in the tree, ‘“‘I’m afraid I’m going to faint!” ** Little danger of that!” muttered Steve, be- tween his teeth, ‘‘I know you of old, my dear woman,” He reined his horse to the 1ight, watching a chance to send his first bullet where it would be effective. To his disgust, the bull turned with him, keeping head on. “Just stand still a moment or two, old fellow!” urged the Ranch Mascot. ‘‘ How do you expect me to shoot you when you won't give me a show at a fatal spot?” The mad bull did not wait, and suddenly charged the cowboy, Steve had been watching for such a move, but was barely able to avoid the bull, As the animal went plunging past, the cow- boy’s revolver spoke, He knew the shot would not prove effective the instant he pulled the trig- ger, and an exclamation of disappointment left his lips. Reining about, he was in time to see the bull turn and charge back, He did not wait for the animal to pass, but fired straight at one of those gleaming eyes. Again avoiding the charge, hesaw his second bullet bad not been wasted. A third shot cut out the other eye, and the mad bull was blinded! Then Cowboy Steve deliberately dismounted and approached the animal, A bullet back of the left shoulder completed the work, The bull — on its knees; then rolled slowly over on its side. ‘* Bravo, bravo!” cried a musical voice from the tree. ‘‘That’s the way to do it! Why, I banged away at the beast six times, and I don’t think I touched it at all.” Not until be was sure that his final shot had finished the work did Steve Norman turn toward the girl he had saved. Then he gracefully lifted his hat and bowed, but there was not a trace of a smile on his calm face. ‘‘ How am I to get down?” questioned the girl. **T had very little trouble about getting up, That beautiful beast assisted me.” ‘*] think I will be able to assist you down without trouble,” answered the young cavtle- man. ‘I will lead my borse under the tree, and you can swing down to its back.” Which he did, and, in a few Moments, the girl was safely on the ground, ‘ “Ok, L thank you awfully much!” she cried, gushingly. ‘I know I should have been killed if you hadn’t come to my rescue. That horrid creature frightened my horse, and I was uncere- moniously, dumped from the saddle. For a wonder, the fall did not hurt me_one bit, * at how I came up in this tree Til never ‘**'You have evidently had a narrow escape from death, Miss Kenton,” he calmly said. ** And I am so glad it was you who saved me! It seems as if fate brought us together again, Steve.” * An adverse fate,” ‘* Don’t speak like that!” she entreated. She put out an appealing band to him, touch- ing him on the arm, but be recoiled quickly. ‘I beg of you, Miss Kenton—your pardon— Miss Ruthven.” ‘ ** Steve, you are changed,” _ ** And you—even your name is changed.” ! ** You speak harshly.” rr A ‘* Why shouldn’t I? And still—why should I? What more could I expect than the treatment I received,” ‘* You have not forgotten?” ‘Did you think I could forget so easily? I was nothing but a boy, and you—well, if not much older in years, you were far older in ex- perience. Bah! Why am I speaking of that! It brings a bitter taste to my mouth!” ‘¢ Oh, come, Steve!” she entreated, holding out her gloved hands. ‘‘ That is allin the past. It is dead—” ‘*So is my regard for you.” ‘* Yon loved me once,’ “T thought so,” “ You did—I know you did!” “Tf go, that love is dead, - Why stir its ashes?” ** As you say, you were only a boy, and I—” ‘You were years older, although you looked then, as you appear now, like a girl of eighteen. How you retain your youth is a mystery to me,” ‘*T am not so very old,” she half-laughed, “Why, Steve, I’m only twenty-seven!” ‘* No one would dream you had seen twenty.” ‘So much the better. You area man now— fully old enough to vote. There are not so many years between us—not enough to keep us apart,” ‘‘Tt is not the years that separates us, I know you for what you are. How under heaven did you ever come to know and be friendly with Iva ilton?” . ‘*T met her at boarding-school.” hs Inposeible! Why should you be at such a place? ‘* Business,” **- You were looking for victims?” ‘¢ Oh, that does not sound atall pleasant! I entered the school for the purpose of getting acquainted with girls whom I could use to ad- vantage.” ‘*There was a black look on the face of the young cowboy. ‘* And Iva was one of them?” Sbe Jaughed, ‘Don’t get worked up, old fellow. Milton is rich. Why shouldn’t I—” ‘« And I am going away—goiog to leave her to oar, mercy! You would ruin her in some way! nd look of surprise filled the girl’s blue eyes, ‘¢ Going away? When?” a“ Now,” “Why?” * Because I cannot remain where you are.” ‘* Which is the same as a confession you still care for me.” “ Whicb is nothing of the kind. I swea all my regard for you is dead and cold! But I feared 1 would betray myself if I remained—I knew I would call you by the name you bore in the East.” __ ** And wasit for me you cared so very much? Did you not think of yourself at all?” Steve’s face flushed a bit, ‘**T confess I did not care to have you make public my past.” ‘“‘T thought as much, We are both in the same box.” “No! All my old lifeis put behind me. I confess I gambled and drank, It was those vices which brought me close to death. You deserted me—left me to die. I did not die, I tried to follow you and Bartley Frick, My strength failed me, They said I was dying of consumption. I was .taken in at Rainbow Ranch, and Iva—dear little Ival—nursed me back to life and health.” Tbe color had fled from the face of the listen- ing gir] and her hands were elivched, ‘Iya!’ she whispered, ‘* I see—I understand —you love her!” “Tf so, the more fool I! 1 remember my record, what I have been and what I am, and I do not dream of ever possessing her,” ‘*T would kill her, ‘if I thought there was danger you would win her!” boarsely declared the girl. He |voked at her in surprise “Can you be in earnest?” exclaimed the cow- ‘*One would think you really cared for ” Warren **Care for you! Oh! Steve! you have grown so strong and handsome, 1 did think I had ceased to love you, but now I know I love you more madly than ever before! Won't you believe me, Steve? Take me back! We will go away from here—somewhere—anywhere! I will be only too glad to give up my present life, for I am heartily sick of it, Together, where we are not known, we will begin all over again. Think, Steve, think what it means! I love you truly, with all my heart! You must believe!” is reply was a laugh of scorn. r : alive a ae —$— > — eee OeeOrmmO>O><<«_«—Q@00_0 CHAPER III. LOVE OR HATRED? THAT laugh cut to her very heart, She fell back, lifting one hand to her eyes, extending the other appealingly. ** Don’t!” she gasped—** please don’t!” “I know you pretty well,” asserted Silver Spur Steve; ‘‘ but I cannot always tell when you are acting and when you are in earnest.” **Oh, Heaven! you are cruel!” “Cruel! What of yourself? Ihave not for- gotten bow you took my last dollar and left me alone to die!” **Oh, can’t you forgive? [was mad! I con- fess | wronged you—lI confess everything—only forgive!” ; ‘“*[ cannot. You ask too much. I have tried to forget, but I found that impossible. What were you when I first met you? An adyen- turess—a blackmailer! With your sweet, inno- cent face and your seductive ways, you led your victims into the traps you set, They were usual- ly middle-aged men, called respectable. You always chose those who had wives and families, When your web was well spun, you demanded hush-money.” ‘* And usually received it,” she said, with a touch of swagger. ‘I played them well. I ob- tained their money, and in return they obtained —nothing at all. I was much too sharp to ever let one of them entrap me.” ‘“* You forget, Julia, There wasone, He bad you foul, and he meant to bring the matter to covrt. You would have been sent up, Who saved you?” ** You did, Steve,” ‘ ‘“*T bad money then, for the night before I had broken a faro-bank. I saw you arrested, Fool that'I was, I was struck by your face, and I put up my last dollar to save you.” ** And succeeded,” ‘* Which I have since then bitterly regretted. It would have been better for me bad I failed. You rewarded me with your smiles for a time. When I was down on my-back, you took m money and fled with Frick, a worthless actor.’ ‘*T have confessed I wronged you. I did soin a moment of weakness, Now 1am ready to do anything to win you back,” “For what purpose? You might remain true for a time, were I fool enough to believe you, but you would finally tire of me, What then? It would be the same old story.” ‘* No, no; { swear—” “*T wouldn’t trust you, even though I believed you in earnest at this moment, There is ap- parently nothing but frankness and honesty in your eyes, but they are as treacherous as your heart.” She suddenly faced him, throwing back her head defiantly. “Be careful!” she cried. ‘*Do you wish to make me your bitterest foe?” . “*T choose your enmity to your friendship.” “*T may make a stronger foe than you dream,” He flung out one band. ** That is nothing,” **] will strike you in a way that will cut the deepest,” ‘* Your threats are music.” “T will tel! those who have trusted you all about your past—I will tel) her /” ‘* Even that will not harm me, for I am going far away, into some remote part of the country. I shall change my name. You will waste your breath in telling the stories,” ‘* But Iva—I promise you she shall not es- cape,” In a moment he comprehended her meaning. With one long stride be was close to her, his hand falling with an iron grip on her wrist. *Tva!” he grated, ‘* Would you barm that in- nocent child? You would! I read the intention in your face.” : ““T would,” she retorted, defiantly, ‘‘for now I know you love her,” } ‘But you shall not! I will not leave you the opportunity! She shall not become your vic- tim, for she shall know the truth concerning you. Ha! You did not dream two could play at the game of exposure!” She was trembling now, but not with fear, Anger had taken full possession of her. ‘* Ob, how I hate you!” she cried. That made him laugh in her face once more, ‘*A little while ago you were telling of your love; now itis hatred. I knew it would turn quickly. Ob, I was not fool enough to trust you again!” She sought to twist herself from his grasp, and, failing to do so, sbe struck him in the face with her clinched left band. And still he smiled! Nothing could have hurt her more, ~ +8 a

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“You have become a perfect devil!”/panted the maddened girl. ‘*T have simply learned my lesson well. I am no longer a soft and foolish boy. I know you thoroughly, Julia Kenton, or Ruthven, as you now call yourself. I will baffle you in your purpose, for [va shall know the full truth. I cannot go back there, but if you remain under the roof of Rainbow Ranch until to-morrow, you will be cast out by its owner, I shall send him your full bistory, carefully written out.” **Doso! I willtake my chances, A few mo- ments ago I was ready to turn from the old life to a better one; but you killed my ambition to do a0 Whatever I become, you will be respon- sible, “You know that is not true, Julia. The seeds of sin were sown within your heart long before I met you. You are a naturel adven- turess, and any otber life lacks attraction for you. No matter what comes, I shall not hold myself responsible in the least,” A hard look had blotted out much of the soft beauty of her face, and her hand was now con- cealed in ber bosom, ** Steve.” ** What?” ‘‘T am going to make one more appeal.” **Tt is useless,” ‘It is the last. I swear I love you better than ‘ anything else on this earth!” ‘* Another change!” ‘Never wasI more in earnest, Won't you forget this black-eyed girl who has fascinated in and go away with me? We will be so appy together! Please do this, darling!” here was a world of tenderness in the appeal, but he had steeled himself to meet her advances as he believed they deserved, “No, Julia.” ‘For the last time—” *¢ For the last time No /” ‘* Then die” Out came her hand from her bosom and the little revolver was thrust almost against his forehead. The hammer fell witha dull click, but there was no report. For one moment, she seemed dazed, then she dro the weapon to the ground, “It is empty!” she gasped. ‘I had for- gotten!” ‘* ‘You really meant to kill me?” 4“ Yes,” * And then—” ‘* And then myself. They would have found us here dead together.” **You are more desperate than I dreamed. You failed in your purpose, and now I will leave you.” * Yes, go!” "Remember what I have told you. Leave Rainbow Ranch to-day, if you would save your- self a ne and humiliation of ejectment.” He bowed, swung lightly into the saddle and rode away, She watched bis retreating figure. ‘*Oh, Heaven!” she panted, her hands pressed together over her throbbing heart, ‘‘ How I love him! howllovehim! He has become so grand, so fearless, so handsome! I would give my very soul to possess him as I did once! And now he scorns me! ** Won't he look back? Oh, if he would only look back!” . But he rode on without turning his head, She staggered to the edge of the grove and stood clinging to a branch, watching him till he was a mere speck in the distance, Then she fell face downward on the ground and lay there like one dead. CHAPTER IV, FOUL WORK—ON THE TRAIL, ** Ox, father! you were cruel!” “* Hush, child!” commanded Warren M/lton, rather sternly. ‘‘I saw enough to give me good reason for doing as I did.” “* Stephen Norman is honest and manly.” * He is not a fit associate for you, Iva. He is a@ person who vails his past in mystery. We know nothing of him before he came bere.” “Bat Julia knows, She will tell me.” No matter. He is gone, and I am glad of “The rancher left his child alone, and she fled to | ber ot where she burst into tears, ““He is gone!” she sobbed, flinging herself face downward on her bed. “I will never see him again! And I—I—thoaght | aac he loved —me—some! He didn’t care for mea bit! It WPaar io tee eo of grief ¥ ut w er img were past, she added; ot Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. **T hadn’t ought to hate Julia. She is not to blame. She is fortunate. I don’thateher. I wonder if she cares for him?” She lay thinking it all over for a long time. Suddenly there wasa commotion in the ranch, She heard loud voices calling and the rush of heavy feet, Then somebody cried: “It’s murder!” She sprung up and listened. What had happened? _ She opened ber door and stepped out, being just in time to come face to face with Big Ben, he foreman, ** What is it, Ben?” she asked. ‘‘ What is all this excitement about?” **Dick Clark has croaked.” “Dick?” “Yes; he’s gone,” ** Why, he was much better not so very long ago. It is not possible!” Just then Warren Milton appeared. ** Iva, child,” he said, “stay in your room for a little time.” ‘* But, father, tell me—” ‘* You shall know all in good time. Please go into your room now.” She was dazed somewhat, and he had little trouble in inducing her to obey him. When the door closed upon her, he turned to Big Ben, drawing the foreman away. ‘*TIg it true?” the rancher cutitlonsly asked. * Dick—” ‘** Has been knifed,” nodded the cowboy. ‘* Who did it?” ‘* Come to his room.” Miltou followed Big Ben. There were several cowboys in the room where poor Dick Clark had been kindly cared for during his sickness, and the cowboy’s rigid body was stretched across the bed, A glance showed he was stone dead. On the floor lay the bloody knife that had ended the unfortunate cowboy’s career, _ “T wouldo’t let any one touch it till you saw it, senor,” said Yellow Jack, a rather intelli- gent and ape een, er fellow who claim- ed there was Spanish blood in bis veins. The rancher picked up the knife and examin- ed it. His face paled, and he cried: “My God!” e Bd know the knife, senor?’ hinted Yellow ack, “Know it—yes. But it is impossible the owner of this blade killed Dick Clark! They were the best of friends,” ‘* What is this on the sheet?” exclaimed one of the throng. ‘‘See hére! Poor Dick tried to write something with his own blood!” : All crowded eagerly forward. It was plainly evident the dead man had made an attempt to trace something on the sheet, The forefinger of bis rigut hamd kad been dipped in blood, and his failing h had, it seemed, enabled him to trace five irregular let- ters, They were— , * Steve,” ‘* Whose knife is that thar?” remiae cried ore Ben, pointing at the bloody blade Warren Milton held in his trembling hand. ‘It is Stephen Norman’s!” was the low reply. ‘“ Whar is Steve Norman?” cried several voices, ‘* He is gone,” ‘*Gone whar?” ** Left the ranch.” ** How long ago?” ‘Nearly two hours,” ‘* Poor Dick’s been dead about two hours.” “But Senor Norman never did this!” asserted Yellow Jack. “I am sure—” ““No, no!” chimed in several voices, ‘‘ This is not Steve’s work!” Big Ben shook his head. ““T won't berlieve it of the lad tell I hev ter,” asserte1 the big fellow; ‘‘ but these yar things do look powerful bad ag’in’ him.” ‘“*Thet’s what they do!” _ “Do youremember Dick hed a row with Steve jest afore he wuz tooken down?” questioned one of the cowboys, ; ‘* They made that all up,” declared another. ‘They ’peared to, but Silver Spur may hey held a grudge.” ae ‘* He wasn’t thet kind,” ‘He didn’t pear ter be, but—” ‘“* Whar’s he gone, boss? We've gotter foller him an’ bring him back hyar.” “IT don’t know where he has gone,” replied the rancher, ‘All I know is that he suddenly en and i without delay. acy pet aner s own horse, taking everyt aes ogee hs th a saw him to to the southwest, said Yellow Jack,” — = ‘ ’ ‘* We must trail him.” ** Yes, trail him! trail him!” ‘*'Yes,” said Warren Milton, with suddem firmness, ‘‘If he did this red work, he should be brought to justice as speedily as possible.. Big Ben, I select you to choose three companions and pursue Stephen Norman, capture bim and bring him back to Rainbow Rancb, He shalb. be given a square and fair stow. If he can prove his innocence, well and good; if not—” He ceased abruptly, but one of the cowboys: made a significant sound in his throat—like that. of a person strangling. It caused the rancher’s blood to run cold in bis veins. There was little delay. Having been chosen as a leader of the trailers, Big Ben quickly selected his companions. ‘*The sooner we are off the better,” said the foreman. ‘‘ He has a good start of us, and, if he really killed Dick Clark, he will make the best of it,” The excitement on the ranch was intense when the full truth became known, but the cow- boys were reluctant about believing their pard, Silver Spur, guilty of so foul an act. In fact, many of tham firmly declared nothing would con- vince them their late comrade had murdered the man he so often called friend. ‘Tt remaips fer him ter prove his innercence,”” grimly averred Big Ben. ‘‘ Ther lad hain’t hed a better friend nor w’at I’ve bin, but it looks black ag’in’ him. Ef he wiped out poor Dicx, [il like nuthin’ better’n pullin on the rope that swings him.” ‘* Ben’s three companion trailers were Yellow Jack and two cowboys named Grant and Rogers.. It did not take them long to prepare for the start. Jack had seen Steve riding to the south- west, so little time was lost in striking the trail. The excitement at Rainbow Ranch had been so intense that the absence of Julia, now un- naturally protracted, bad scarcely produced comment, In the little grove where Steve had met Julia Ruthven the trailers found the dead bull, Iva’s borse was quietly feeding near the grove and was secured by Big Ben. ‘‘Somethin’s happened ter t’other gal,” de- clared the foreman. ‘ This shows it purty plain, Jest w’at all ther sign means I hain’t got time ter diskiver, fer time is might precious jest now. But at the southern extremity of the grove they came upon Julia. She heard their approach and sat up, staring at them rather wildly, a strange look in her big blue eyes. The cattlemen immediately lifted their hats in a most respectful manner, Big Ben’ acting as. spokesman, The foreman questioned her con- cerning what had He ua but she seemed rather hazy, as if partially stunned. ‘** Suddenly she started up, crying: ‘* Steve Norman—where is he?” ** Thet’s jest w’at we'd like ter know,” declared the big elaos ‘* 'W hat has he done?” ‘* Enough to hang him,” asserted Jim Grant, The girl insisted on knowing what had hap- pened, and they finally told her. Something send a look of joy passed over her face, and she cried: ‘*8o0 be is a fugitive from justice! That is good news! He is a villain, and ought to be punished! He shaJl not escape! No, he shall not, for I will turn trailer myself! Gentlemen, I am going with you!” In vain they remonstrated and protested. She insisted on becoming one of Silver Spur’s pursuers, and they were finally forced to con- sent, Within her heart she exclaimed: *¢ He shall owe his life to me! I willsave him iy Sm avengers of blood! Will he scorn me en -__—_—_ CHAPTER V. ODD OLD DOCTOR DIRK, ‘““ Wer may not overtake ther galoot afore night, miss,” said Big Ben, : **T do not care for that,” asserted Julia. ** But ther people back at ther ranch ’)) think ye’re done fer.” ‘*T had not thought of that.” ‘* You see it hain’t possible fer us ter take ye | ar 6 mise,” “T do not see anything of the kind. This Stephen Norman is my bitterest enemy, and I propose to aid in his capture,” 2 ‘¢ Will you bear that!” softly exclaimed Jim Grant, leaning toward Bud Rogers and speak- ing so, guardedly bis words did not reach the I’s ears. ‘ Any one’d think she wuz a man, tead of a little snip of a gal that’s soft as /

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maiilk. ‘‘ W’at kin she do ’bout capterin’ Steve Norman?” ‘* Sha c’u’d capter him with a smile,” nodded Rogers. ‘ Leastwise, she’d oughter beable ter, She’s purty as any wax babby.” The girl still refused to return to Rainbow Ranch, and big Ben was forced to send Jim Grant back to let Warren Milton know what had become of her. Grant was instructed to make haste, having notified Milton, and overtake the party. Once more they moved forward on the trail, which Silver Spur Steve had taken no pains to conceal, ** Don’t look like the feller was ’spectin’ to be follered very soon,” observed Big Ben, Yellow Jack was strangely silent. Several times be was seen to steal covetous glances at Julia Ruthven, but the girl appeared atterly un- conscious of scrutiny. Steadily tbe trail led to the southwest. ‘* He’s headin’ fer the Blue Hills,” said Bud Rogers, ‘‘ Ef he gits thar—” The girl turned on him, like a flash. * What if he gets there?” she asked, eagerly. ** Thar are lots of places ter hide in ther Blue Hills.” * But he must not escape!” exclaimed Julia, Three hours passed before Jim Grant joined ‘the party again. He had changed horses at the ranch, having overdriven the first animal, ‘¢ They’re mighty worked up at w’at ye’r’ doin’, ‘imiss,” Grant said. ‘‘ They say ye must be plum daft. The strange girl smiled, but made no reply. The Blue Hills were rising before them, seem- ing not more than ten miles away, although they were really twenty. Half the distance to the hills had been covered when Big Ben dis- covered a horse and rider away in advance, “It’s Steve Norman!” shouted Jim Grant, when the figures were pointed out to bim, ‘“ Hf he don’t see us, we kin catch him afore he gits inter ther hills,” put in Rogers, ‘Come on!” cried the beautiful Amazon, at ouce taking the lead, But, when they were closer upon the lone ‘horseman, they discovered it wasnot the Ranch Mascot at all. In a short time they overtook the rider, finding he was a stranger, a man ap- parently sixty years old. His bair and beard ‘were very gray and he wore gold-rimmed spectacles, as if his eyesight troubled him to someextent, At bis left side was a small sachel, supported by a strap which passed over his right shoulder, eS The stranger drew rein as soon as he discov- ered them, and waited for the little party to ap- proach. He lifted his hat to Julia and bowed to the others. “Good-day, good-day,” he cried, cheerily, ‘A fine day fora dash over the prarie. Whither bound, my friends?” “To ther hills,” was Big Ben’s reply, as he suspiciously inspected the stranger. ‘I don’t seem ter know you. Who might ye be, pard?” **T wish you wouldn’t put the question in that form,” laughed the little man. ‘It tempts me to spring a chestnut to the effect that I might be the President, but am not, Will you be good enough to ask me point blank who I am?” “Anything to accommerdate,” growled the big cattleman. “* Who ther howlin’ blue blazes “Tat is better—much better, even though your language is rather forcible. I’m one of those direct kind of men—always come to the point at once, you see,” * Can’t say I do.” “You mean you won't say you do, You could say so, if you chose, although you might not tell the truth, There is nothing like being precise in these little matters of speech, Pre- cision is a jewel, and—” “Chain up right thar!” exclaimed Ben, **You’re jumpin’ from ther point.” ** Like the boy who sits down on an inverted tack, eh?” grinned the stranger. ‘ That is an- other chestnut. 1t’s remarkable how many stale jokes there are afloat in the world, Did you ever stop to think—” ‘Holy smoke! You give me pains, old man! I’m fishin’ arter your name.” “J used to go fishing myself, when I wasa boy. It’s really great sport, isn’t it. Especially when you catch a licking. Te 1 didn’t gateh any fish, [ could always depend on catching a lick- ing when [ got homo, so I was not euchered, Now—” , * Now, will you give us that name?” “Really, I fear. that is impossible. It was given me when I was very young, and I have kept it ever since, You must have one of your own, and so you can’t actually need another.” The big cattleman saw the stranger’s eyes twinkling behind the spectacies, and Ben knew he was being made sport of. This aroused his anger, and he suddenly whipped out a revolver, thrusting it under the nose of the queer little man, ‘It’s allus danger’us ter be too funny,” de- clared Ben, grimly. ‘‘ Mister, you’re too funny fer this life. I reckon I'll jest hev ter shoot ye on ther spot,” ‘* Will you kindly be a bit more definite as to toe locality in which you mean to shoot me? The spot may mean any spot. Now if I am going to be shot, I wouldn’t mind—I mean J wowd mind—having a say as to the locality of the spot.” Tbat was too much for the foreman, and Ben burst into a laugh, in which the little man joined heartily. ‘*Look hyar,” said the cowboy, putting up the revolver; ‘‘you’re bout ther oddest derned duck Lever run up ag’inst,” ‘*Tt really distresses me to have to correct you again,” put in the odd stranger; ‘but 1 assure you I am not @# duck, and J am certain you did not run up against me, It is just as easy to be correct in these little details.” ‘“T reckon you’re an escaped lunatic.” ‘You mean you think I am an escaped lunatic, Well, 1 am not, sir. I am an escaped doctor of medicine, I barely escaped death at the hands of my last patient’s brother. You see, the patient died. Possibly you may not seo it, but it is true that hedied. His brother was wroth, and ke pursued me out of town with a shot-gun, JI am not sure the gun was loaded, but I didn’t take any chances on that poist. So you must understand I am an escaped doctor.” ‘* You were lucky to escape.” “That may or may not be true, I am not ready to admit itis, and [ will not say it isn’t, Anyway, lam here. Did you inquire about my naine a moment ago?” ‘SDed. Ly” ‘Ob, beg your pardon. It’s a common name, Do you mind common names?” “ Waal—” ‘One so common as Dirk, for instance?” ‘* So your name is Doctor Dirk?” “Did I say so? I have reasons to believe that ismy pame. I am not ready to assert it fora fact, but—” ‘Never mind, pard; Dirk will do.” ** Oh, very well, What is your name, sir?’ ** Jordan.” ““Taken from the river Jordan, I presume, | Do you know all our names sprung from some such source, I have made a study—” ‘* Waal, we're losin’ time.” **Soam I—so amJ, ‘You seem to be going in my direction, Suppose we jog along to- gether,” So the odd little doctor became one of the party. He was inclined to talk a great deal, repeatedly asserting he was a‘‘man of pre- cision,” yet always avoiding a point when he could do s0, Gradually, he learned the business of the trailers, ‘This desperado you are after may prove a fighter, eb?” he questioned. **He may show fight.” ‘“Tlaen my services will come in handy, I have pay surgical instruments in this sachel— thatis, [ think I have them there, If I remem- ber correctly, they were there this morning. I consider myself quite skillful in amputating an arm or 4 leg or anything of that sort. I trust I may get a little business out of thisaffair, Now, sir, is would be a real pleasere to cut off one of your legs—” On, it would!” You are such a magnificent man—such vi- tality! You would surely endure the operation, That is, I thimk you would, If you should hap- pen to die, you would make a great subject for the dissecting table.” ‘¢' That is pleasant!” Ree a They talked in this manner until the hills were reached, Yellow Jack keeping track of the trail in the mean time. Julia, the strange girl, had very little to say. — Once fairly witbin the hills, the trail was lost. Silver Spur’s horse bad struck a rocky piece of ground, where no One but an Indian could follow the track be left. ‘I’m afraid be will give us the slip, senors,” Said the Mexican, t “‘He mustn’t!” cried Big Ben, ‘' Ef ho wiped out Dick Clark, he must be captered!” | They pushed on into the hills till they came to an old deserted hut. There they halted, ‘* We'll make this our headquarters while we scour this yer’ seetion,” deelared the foreman, Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. 5 CHAPTER VI. Rea THE AMAZON SHOWS HER HAND, LEAVING the others at the old cabin, Big Ben and Yellow Jack sought for the trail or some trace of the Ranch Mascot. Night came on and found them tar from the cabin, - ‘**Wecan’t do anything more tell mornin’,” reluctantly admitted the foreman. ‘I’m sorry, fer I’m feared lest be gits clean away.” Yellow Jack expressed his disappointment, and they turned their faces toward the old but, Of a sudden, they came upon the brink of a ravine. Yellow Jack’s hand instantly fell on Big Ben’s arm, and both men found themselves gazing down into a small pocket-like place, where burned a camp-fire, Around the fire were eight men, sitting or re- clining in various positions. Some were play- ing cards, some smoking, some reclining at ease on the ground, With one exception, they were all masked. And that exception— Silver Spur Steve! ** Holy Moses!” gasped Big Ben, ‘*Them fel, lers down thar are Red Dan’s Rustlers}” *¢ Si, senor,” whispered Yellow Jack, ‘*But thar’s Steve with ’em!” ** Si, senor,” ‘* W bat’s it mean? , Ther lad hain’t trussed up¢ he don’t look like a pris’ner.” «e He is not,” hissed the Mexican, ‘ He is free! * Waal, how comes he thar?” “He must be in league with the rustlers, senor,” ‘*What, Cowboy Steve? I won’t berlieve that! He may hey hed a grudge ag’in’ Dick Clark an’ wiped him out, but he hain’t cahoots with ther p’izen cattle-thieves,” ‘Why should be be theraa free man? Ah, you must confess it does look bad, senor, If he were a prisoner—” ‘¢ He may be.” ‘There is no sign of it, See—he arises!” The young cowboy was seen to get upon his feet and walk up and down before the fire, The other men seemed to pay very little attention to his movements, Steve’s manner was gloomy and downcast, ‘That settles it!” came harshly, but guard- edly from the lips of the giant foreman of Rain- bow Raneb, ‘* He is a traitor, and in cahoots with them dirty skunks, Otherwise he’d make a break. I’ve bin clean tookenin by ther boy, This shakes my confidence in human nater most mightily.” Yellow Jack said not a word, but Bsn saw him make a significant motion, The big cow- boy was just in time to nrevent the Mexican from using bis revolver, ‘* What the howlin’ devils you tryin’ ter do?” hissed Bev. ‘Kill the two-faced dog!” half-snarled: Yel- low Jack, ‘‘ He deserves death!” Ben wrenched the revolver frem Jack’s hand, ‘*Ttseems ter me you take a powerful intrust in this yar ’fair fer a now man at ther ranch,” he growled, ‘* You hain’t bin with us but ten days, yet hyar you be a-wantin’ ter plug Steve Norman ’cause he’s turned traitor!” ‘* Because he wiped out Dick Clark, senor.” ‘* What was Clark ter you?” ‘* Nothing more than my comrade,” ‘© Waal, te hed extensive dealin’s with yal- ler-skins, but I'l] say you’re ther oddest critter I’ve struck. I dunno jest how ter size ye up,” The Mexican was no more than a baby in the huge cattleman’s hands, and Ben made him promise not to use the revolver before he would surrender it, ‘“Now we'll git away from byar,” declared the foreman. ‘ Ef we don’t, you'll be givin’ us clean away ter them critters down thar.” “Wait!” whispered Jack, ‘ Look! walking away! Now is your time!” _ Ben glanced down into the pocket, and was just in time to see the figure of Cowboy Steve walk from the circle of firelight and disappear in the shadows, ‘* We can shut him off and take him befqre he can get back, senor!” panted Yellow Jack. ~ ou may be right,” confesssd the foreman, He is work, I know you yaller-skins; you're too mighty ready with ther knife, El we take this chap, be must be taken alive.” _ “« Si, senor.” ~ * Ali right. Follow.” The big cowboy moved swiftly, and Yellow Jack kept at his heels, Along the brink of the ravine they went until they found a place to descend, which they did without making a great deal of noise, Fortune favored them for they came full ut you must promise to let me do all the — , ir ve ies 4 i

’ co ee meer ae se ~Se —— — Tee

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6 Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. upon the very man they were looking for. ina moment, Big Ben had flung his long arms around Steve’s body. ‘Slow an’ easy, pard!” cautiously command- ed the giant cattleman. ‘It won’t do ye nary derned bit of good to squirm, I hev ye.” An exclamation of astonishment broke from Steve’s lips, ‘* Ben Jordan—impossible!” “Tt’s me, jest ther same,” assured the fore- man, retaining hisclutch, ‘‘ You're my prisoner, Steve, boy.” ‘* But how—” ‘*No time fer askin’ questions. plenty chance later on,” ** What do you mean? Your prisoner? What kind of a joke is this?” **No joke at all, lad. Hyar, Jack, tie up his wrists. Big Ben forced the young cowboy’s hands be- hind him and the Mexican made them secure, All the while, Steve was protesting. “This is an outrage, Ben Jordan!” he de- elared. ‘‘ What have [ done to merit this at your hands? Has Warren Milton trumped up a charge against me and sent you to bring me back?” ‘Put the stopper on jest now, pard; you'll find out what it’s all about later on. Come with ? ** Don’t ask it, pard—don’t!” ‘IT swearl am innocent of this crime, and I am sbi ar prove my innocence, if given a fair show, ill no one believe me?” ** Ves, I believe you !” From adark corner in which she had been lurking Julia Ruthven darted to the captive’s side, ‘* You—here?” exclaimed young Norman. ‘“'Yes—here to save you!’ A knife flashed in her band and the keen blade severed the cord that secured his hands, ‘¢ There is an open window at your back!” she screamed, ‘ You can escape that way!” Then she leaped toward one of the astounded cowboys and snatched a revolver from his belt, ‘¢ 7’)] kill the first man who makes a move to stop him!” she declared, cocking the heavy re- volver. You'll hev CHAPTER VII. DOCTOR DIRK'S LITTLE TRICK. THE beautiful Amazon was in deadly earnest, Her blue eyes flashed aud the hand that held the beavy revolver was steady as a rock. “Poly jee!” gasped Jim Grant. ‘‘ Hain't she a daisy !” The young woman meant to save Silver Spur Steve at any cost, but no one was more aston- ished by her sudden move than the young cow- boy himself. ** Quick!” she panted. ‘Out of the window! Your road to liberty is open!” But Cowboy Steve did not stir, **No,” be said, coldly. ‘I refuse to accept my liberty at your hands!” ‘* But I can’t go. If I leave hore, I will break my word of honor,” “Then I reckon you'll hev ter break it. I’ve ot ye, an’ I’m goin’ ter take ye back ter Rain- es Ranch.” ‘*Goslow, Ben. A shout from my lips will bring half a score of men to my rescue,” ‘*Do you want to live a while longer, boy?” “You are mad! They will lyncb you!” ‘“* Cert.” “JT will take my chances, rather than to be ‘*Phen you'll take good care not to give thet / thus indebted to you,” shout. I tell ye now, I’ve got ye, an’ afore Red She turned pale asa corpse and the revolver Dan’s Rustlers sh’u’d take ye from me, I’d blow | fell from her hand. His words had struck home, the hull roof of yer head off. Thisis on the dead | and she swayed as if on the point of falling, put- level, pard,” ting out one hand blindly, while the other she “B pressed to her bosom, Bud Rogers took a,step forward to catch her, but she recovered herself and turned from him, Silver Spur stepped toward Big Ben, holding stern orders kept him silent for a time, although , out his hands, he would break out now and then, only to be ‘Truss me ap again, pard,” he said. ‘* I may promptly silenced by the huge cowboy. as well accept what fate has in store for me,” In that manner, they made their way to the The big cowboy hesitated. deserted hut, where the others were awaiting | ‘‘‘‘ Ef so be ye’ll guy yer word tbat ye won't their appearance, try ter make a break—” he began. Great was the excitement when it was found The Ranch Mascot interrupted him, they had brought back Steve Norman a cap- *fcould not trust myself that far,” he de- tive. / .| clared, ‘‘ Knowing the true condition of af- A ‘slut candle” had been discovered within | fairs, { might think it right to do the best thing, the cabin, and by its light they eagerly survey- | regardless of promises, No, Ben; tie me up, ed the young cowboy, asif looking for signs of | I'll be safer.” guilt upon his person, Without a word, Julia Ruthven moved away. ‘Any one would think me some strange Old Dr, Dirk came forward, nodding and rub- animal from the manner in which I am treated!” | bing bis hands,, came hotly from Steve’s lips. ‘I demand to ‘It really begins to appear as if I would not ‘know what this is all about,’ ‘*f reckon you know well ernough,” sneered Jim Grant. ‘*Tam utterly in the dark, and your words are insulting! I give you a pledge someone shall suffer for this!” ; get a job bere,” he said, ‘‘Now that is too bad —at least, I consider it too bad. Other people may look on it in a different light. I have kept in the background, out of the way of danger, as I supposed, until [ should be needed: and now it seems [ am not needed at all. You should have more consideration for my feelings—you really sbould.” He looked Cowboy Steve over critically. ‘“*A fair-appearing young fellow,” he com- = S 5 g a » & ® = 5 ® 3 E a B ® eS =} = * Dick Clark is dead.” ** Dick—Dick Clark dead?’ and Cowboy Steve’s astonishment did not seem in the least | mented. ‘‘ That is, I consider hima fine-appear- counterfeited, ing young fellow. Don’t look like a cut-throat. ** Ags ef you didn’t know!” sneered Bud Rog- | He nover killed anybody—at least, that is my ers, opinion. In a moment the color left Steve Norman’s ‘¢ Your opinion is not called for,” growled Jim face, Grant, ‘' Jest you take a back seat,” ‘* What is the meaning of those words?” he cried, ‘‘There is something I cannot under- stand hidden behind this! How did he die?” “* He wuz knifed.” ‘*T hate to do it, Steve, boy,” said Big Ben, as he prepared to tie the young man’s hands again: ‘* but, if ye won’t promise—” ** Go ahead,” nodded the Ranch Mascot. No more words were wasted. ‘We had better start for Rainbow Ranch at once, senors,” said Yellow Jack, ‘Tbe Rustlers are near, and they migbt find us here,” ‘‘ Which is very true,” nodded Big Ben, ‘We will not delay about getting back.” But when they were ready to start, it was discovered that the Amazon was missing, a dis- covery that created no little consternation and alarm, ‘* Whar could she hev gone?” cried the cattle- “Tt "peared ter be, but— Waal, Dick hes bin wiped out, an’ it looks like you done it,” “Look here, pards, if you will give me three hours" freedom, 1 pledge you my word of honor I will return to this spot and accompany you a back to Rainbow Ranch, My horse, my wea-| man, “I sw’ar, I didn’t see her leave ther pons, everything I own is here in the hills, and, | shanty.” if you do not release me, I shall have to break | , Nor had any one else, yet she was gone, ‘‘ Look-fer her boss,” advised Jim Grant. They did so, and found the’ animal with the others, ** She’s shorely clost at hand.” was the opinion ' of the foreman, ‘ I'll call ber.” Won’t you— | But bis calls elicited no response, = word with others who have trusted me, on’t you believe me? Iswear [ will return{” | ‘* Murderers cannot be trusted,” smiled Yel- low Jack, Steve turned to Big Ben. “ Ben, you know me, TE ‘¢ Whar kin she hev gone, Steve?” asked Ben, anxiously. The captive shook his head, ‘¢ You can answer that question as well as I,” he declared, For half an hour they searched in the vicinity of the cabin, and then they decided she must have wandered away. ‘¢We can’t go back ter Rainbow Ranch with- out her,” said Ben. ‘Grant, Pll leave you ter watch Steve, Rogers an’ ther yaller skin’ll go with me, We're goin’ ter make a bunt of it.” ‘¢ Permit me to inquire what department I am going to fill,” put in the little doctor. ‘*Oh, you don’t count,” was the reply. ‘ You kin do w’at yer please.” ‘¢- You are more than kind—that is, I. consider you more than kind. I will proceed to make myself comfortable right bere.” When the others were gone, the doctor pro- ceeded to make himself as comfortable as possible. Steve had thrown bimself down in a corner, hisattitude one of deep dejection and de- spair. Dirk sat down on the floor, for want ofa better seat, placed his back against the wall, opened bis little sachel and took out a pack of cards. With these he began a game of solitaire, - Jim Grant filled the pipe and lighted it, idly watching the queer doctor. : After awhile, the cowboy burst out with: “‘Thet thar must be int’rustin’!” ‘¢ Allow me to correct you in a minor detail,” said the doctor looking up. ‘It is not atalla case of must, L assure you. It may be interest- ing, perchance it is ; but there is no reason why it must be.” Then he resumed the game, Grant held in as long as he could, but be final- ly asked: ‘* Kin yer play seven-up?” “T can—at least, 1 think Ican. If Tl remem- ber correctly, that is my favorite game.” ** Bet I kin wax ye,” ‘‘Now Lam no sport, but I’ll venture a small amount that you’re not Luilt on the correct plan for performing that little trick,” That was enough; five minutes later the two men were deep in the game of seven-up, a small wager having been made, Grant won the first game, ‘‘Haw! haw!” he laughed. ‘I knowed it! Why, Doc, you’re a plum! ‘You don’t know the rudiments of ther game.” ‘¢Perchance not, but I am willing to double the amount that I win this time.” “Tis a go.” Again they played, and again Grant won. His mirth was unlimited, ‘*T never struck such a soft snap!” he chuckled, The doctor dived into his sachel and _pro- duced a flat bottle. Removnig the cork, he seemed to take a long swig, “ Hyar, puss it around!” cried Grant, as Dirk seemed on the point of putting it back in the sachel, ‘* Don’t try ter play ther bog.” “Do go light on it, I entreat!” anxiously urged the doctor, “It’s a little stimulant [ have to use in my business, Iam only able to carry a limited amount.” “‘Queer tastin’ stuff—but purty good,” com-, mented the cowboy, as he set the bottle down, nF Don't put the bottle up, Doc; we may need it ag’in, “They did; the bottle was called into frequent use, and Jim Grant lowered it rapidly. From the time the cowboy took the first drink he lost steadily. ‘“‘Derned strange!” he muttered, in a dazed manner. ‘I don’t seem ter be in this yar game, Thought I hed struck a fresb, but I reckon you do know your biz, Doc.” - ‘*T have been told so before,” blandly smiled the odd littleman, ‘I really think I am rather sly.” Xi Zash stuff of yours ish purty good,” de- clared Jim, his tongue feeling strangely thick and heavy in his mouth, *‘1t works in hands,” ** Zash so.” ‘¢- You seem to have a weary air, my friend.” ‘* Rasher sleepy,” Jim nodded. ‘ Can’t sleep, though; gotter watch Steve, Your deal,” But the game had already become a farce, and it was not long before Jim stretched bim- self on the floor, “Shay, Doc,” be mumbled, “ish zis a square deal? I think you’ve played me fer a shucker. Doe, PN—T'N git—” Then he began to snore, When Big Ben and his companions returned to the cabin, they found Jim Grant stretched on the floor, sleeping peacefully.

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Doctor Dirk had vanished, and, Silver Spur was also gone! ‘¢ Merry blue blazes is ter pay!” roared Big Ben. ‘*Thar’s bin crooked work! Wake that howlin’ fool an’ find out w’at’s happened. Fu’st the gal gone, and now Steve’s got clean away! I D’lieve it’s all ther work of that infernal little runt of a doctor!” It was not an easy thing to arouse Grant, but they finally succeeded. ‘“ Here, you merry fool!” cried the foreman. “‘ Where’s your prisoner?” Jim stared around blankly. ‘¢ Wheremi?” he gurgled. Ben shook him fiercely. “You were left to guard Steve Norman, Where is he?” ‘¢ Ish Steve gonet” ‘6 He hain’t byar.” ‘* Lemme ’lone—lemmoe die!” urged Jim. all reddy ter die now!” ‘“* What hev you bin doin’? ‘* Poolin’ wish a buzz shaw. Thought Doc was shoft—he’sh shark. Money gone—Dov gone— Steve gone! Cush a fool!” : Then he fell back on the floor and spored again, Tm CHAPTER VIII. THE BOND OF BLOOD, THE right was far spent. Two men stood facing each other in the heart of the Blue Hills, One wore a mask, but the face of the other was not covered. A short distance away a small fire ‘burned. Near the fire Jay several human forms, while one man paced up and down, on guard. The man whose face was not hidden by a mask was Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. Tho other man was speaking: “Can you ask for more evidence? You ought to be satisfied, now. You must acknow!l- edge I am your father.” “ You have certainly brought evidence enough to prove it,” confessed Steve Norman; ‘ but, it is a hard thing to believe.” “Still, you cannot disbelieve. You know now that I am your father, Your mother de- serted me for another man, It was her deed that made me what I am—a criminal, an out- law! I loved her, and never once bad I sus- pected her of guilt, I considered John Jayne my truest friend, but he secretly won the affec- tions of my wife and induced her to desert me, When I followed the guilty pair, Jayne at- tempted to murder me, He failed, but [ did not recover from the wound he gave me for many weeks, When I did recover, he had. disap- potest and Jessie, my wife, had vanished with im. ‘* What became of them?” “Jayne, I think, is still living; but your motier, my boy, is dead. The brute misused her, and, when she was dying, she sent me a letter, asking forgiveness, another wife when he married her. He had tired of her very soon, and then his cruelty soon ended her life. That letter made a madman of me,” The masked man moved restlessly up and down a few steps, then halted before tbe young cowboy once more, adding: ‘*] renewed my oath to find and kill him. I sought him everywhere, and one night, in a Frisco dive, I thought I had found him, I only saw the side of his face, but I was sure of my man, I drove a knife between his shoulders, As he fell, [saw his face, “It was not John Jayne! “J bad made a horrible mistake, and stained my hands with the blood of an innocent person, IT knew what that meant, and I fled for my life, From that day to this, t have been an outlaw— a hunted creature, Never bave I met Jayne, but I believe the time will come.” Steve Norman shuddered and drew back a step. Was this man—this murderer—his father? Impossible ! The mask seemed to read his thoughts, for he made a quick gesture, laughingly bitterly. “You are horrified, eh? Well, I scarcely wonder; and still you cannot think me so very much to blame. Fate has been against,me. I have utterly lost all trace of Jayne, but I have reasons to believe he will come to Rainbow Ranch sooner or later, That is why I linger in this vicinity.” ** What will bring him here?” ‘Warren Milton is his brother, for Jayne’s true name was Milton.” “Then that is why you seem to have a grudge against Milton—that is why your raids had nearly ruined him, two years ago?” She told me Jayne bad: Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. “Ts it more than natural I should dislike the man?” ‘He is not accountable for his brother’s deeds,” ‘* T know that, yet still I dislike him, I was driven from these parts nearly two years ago, and I have just returned. You area favorite at Rainbow Ranch, and you must act as my spy. You can tell me if Milton’s brother ap- pears—you can tell me many things I wish to know.” “Do you think I will play such a part?” ‘© Why not?” ‘Tt would be a breach of bonor.” *‘ Honor be—hanged! Blood before honor! My boy, there is a bond of blood between us, and you must stick by me. I promise you shall not do anything so very dishonorable. You are simply to watch for my old enemy— the man who has wronged me and wronged you bitterly. He might appear in the nightand go away in the night, without my knowing any- thing about it. 1don’tintend to murder the man, but simply to make him meet me in a fair duel. That is the only way I can accomplish my purpose.” *¢ft¢ isnot possible for me to return to Kain- bow Rancb.” “Why?” ‘¢T resigned my position there and have left.” ‘¢Paugh! That 1s nothing!” ‘* But | am now charged with murder.” ‘6 What?” Steve then told of the grave charge against him, the outlaw listening with interest. “You did not kill this man?’ asked the mask, ‘*T am not a murderer!” was the cowboy’s hot retort, “Then they will not be able to prove it against you. You must go back and face it out,” ’ os Steve ie tye toa to tell of his capture by Big Ben and Yellow Jack, “They intended to take me back,” he said; ‘* but the queer old doctor drugged the man left to guard me and then set me free. Otherwise, the pledge I had given your lieutenant would have been broken, though through no fault of mine, *¢ Where is this doctor?” *6T do not know whither he went, soon after setting me at liberty.” ** And you—” : ‘*Came here to meet you, as I agreed,” “Good! Now 1 have a plana for restoring you to the confidence of the men of Rainbow Ranch,” ‘SA plan?” ‘Yes, You are to rescue Warren Milton’s daughter from Red Dan.” Sieve started back, in his astonishment, ‘** Rescue her from you?” he exclaimed, ‘¢ That’s what I said.” But she—she—” ‘* She is my captive.” ‘* Tmpossible!” The mask laughed, shortly. ‘‘ Not at all, my boy, Red Dan, or Raymond Blair, just as you may choose to call me, was at work during the hours you waited for him. At peb.” “ Well?” . ‘¢Tva Milton was kind enough to stray into my bands, and [ promptly kidnapped ker,” The Ranch Mascot uttered an exclamation of borror and dismay, “ No, no; not that!” *¢ Just that,” nodded the mask, ‘* Where is she now?” a7 Safe,” i Suddenly Cowboy Steve advanced on the out- aw, ‘Man, have you harmed her? If so—” “Cool and easy, boy! She is not harmed in the least.” ‘Tf you dare harm her—” What?” “T would forget the bond of blood! You should answer for so foul a deed!” “Brave! That is the kind of talk [like to hear! [am rather proud of my son, She has not been harmed and will not be, for you shall take her back to Rainbow Ranch.” **Do you mean that?’ ST. da” **'You will] set her free?” ‘No; you shall save her.” **T do not understand,” “Then I willexplain, You are to figure ina mock rescue,” “* Make it plainer,” “Allright, The girl is not far from here, I He left me sunset I was within sight of Rainbow will have her brought to tbat fire over there, Suddenly you, mounted on your horse, shall dash out of the darkness, firing right and left, My men will appear seized with confusion, You will dash through the camp and catch 4 the girl, escaping in the darkness. She will believe you a hero, and her father will welcome you with open arms when you bring her in safety to the ranch,” Cowboy Steve was silent, thinking of the proposal. awaited his decision, “This is anything but a square deal,” the young cowbcy finally said; ‘‘ but for Iva’s sake—-” ‘*You consent, That’s right. You have a few foolish scruples you must get rid of, my boy. The man with scruples bas a hard time of itin this world. I willsee that your weapons are returned to you, and I will take care they are loaded with blank cartridges. I wouldn't care to have you open up on us with regulars.” ‘* But some of your men may take a fancy to pop me over.” “T wil look ont for that, never fear, You will be all right. Is it a go?” “ It is,” ‘‘That settles it, I will find a way of telling you how to communicate with me after you re- turn to Rainbow Ranch.” “Tf I am not lynched,” ‘¢- You need ‘not fear that,” A short time later, [va Milton was brought to the fire. Concealed by the shadows, Cowboy Steve saw her, and his heart was pained by the look of fear and distress on ber beautiful face, She had been weeping bitterly. ‘Tho infernal hounds!” thought the brave- souled cowboy, as he fingered his revolvers, lately restored to him, ‘‘I wish the cartridges in these weapons were charged witk bullets! I cannot lift my hand against Red Dan, but I have no spark of love for bim, even though he may be my father—which I do doubt. “f will save her, but I will not become the outlaw’s spy. Ihave not given a pledge to do so. It was Red Dan himself who brought the young man’s horse, ! ~ In a few moments, everything was ready, and Steve swung into the saddle. “* All right, my boy,” softly chuckled the cbief of the Rustlers, ‘* Wade in and cover yourself with glory!” Steve touched his spirited horse with the spur and the animal: leaped forward, At the same moment, a wild yell pealed from the Ranch Mascot’s lips, and he began firing his revolvers, Into the circle of firelight shot the black horse, The outlaws sprung up with loud cries of ap- parent dismay. Leaning well over in the sad- dle, Cowboy Steve grasped the stout belt about Iva’s waist. With a powerful surge, he straight- ened up in the saddle, swinging her in front of Plainly, he was Red Dan calmly im. Then the black horse shot into the darkness once more, and the mock rescue was completed! CHAPTER IX, LOYAL LITTLE IVA, Tar trick was performed so naturally it reaily seemed like a genuine rescue, Iva bad caught a glimpse of Steve’s face, and clung to bim when he swung her upin front, Behind them were the yelling outlaws, their cries growing fainter and fainter with each mo- ment, a Iva!” “ec Steve!” *¢ You are safe!” Thanks to you, Steve,” Her faith in bim was perfect, Tbe darkness concealed the hitter smile that played for one moment about bis lips, Soon the cries of the Rustlers could be no longer heard. Then he gradually pulled the horse into a slower pace, finally stopping him. ¥ “‘ Are your nerves steady, Miss Milton?” She tried to force a laugh, but it wasa failure. ‘*T think so,” . ‘Tf I place you bebind me, will you cling fast?” be Yes,” The shift was made, “ Now we are all mght,” he said, ‘‘ Where are we going?” “ Straight to Rainbow Ranch.” “T am so giai!” she joyfully exclaimed, “You are so brave and noble! I shall never forget what you have done this nigbt—never ? **T trust you may.” “‘ Whai—forget?’ “ Yes,” “ Who could forget such a heroic deed? They

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against you, and— awe Oa Sate y 4 =’ gn 4) , ’ Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. shall all know what you have done, and then— Oh, Steve!” ** 'W hat is it?” “ Dick Clark--” “*T know all about it.” : ' You know?” she cried, in wonder, ‘From Big Ben’s lips.” ‘*Then you bave seen him?” ‘““T was his captive not so very long ago,” ** His captive?” ‘Yes; but I succeeded in giving Jim Grant the slip. Grant was left toguard me. I was assisted to escape by a queer old fellow who calls himself a doctor. This odd old man set me free and told me he did not believe me guilty. Then we parted.” ** What became of the doctor?” **T do not know,” ** His name—I must know his name! But for bin you would not bave been able to save me frem those horrid Rustlers,” ‘** He gave his name as Dirk,” ‘tT hope I may see him some time, and tell bim how well he judged you. How cao any ore think you anything but all that i honest and noble!” ‘* You grow enthusiastic, Miss Milton.” “ Call me Iva—ploase,” “Tf you wish me to, but I fear you will think me presuming.” “Presuming—nothing! You are just the dearest feilowf I don’t wonder Julia loves ou! “ Julia—loves—” “Of course you know—you must know! She loves you so much—” ** Did she ever tell you this?” ‘*No; but I suspected it. And you—you love hea as—” T protest)” “What's the use! I’m not blind. I'm glad it’s Julia, Steve, though I—I- ” “You what, Iva?” “Well, I did like you pretty well myself, There! I know you'll think me bold; but I can’t help it! I’m always giving myself dead away, You're a brick, Steve, and Julia’s one of tue best girls in all the world. We were the great- est chums at school! She’s so frank and honest, I liked ber from the minute I set my eyes on her,” The listening cowboy coughed, but said not a word, They weremoving forward slowly, for be knew there was no danger of pursuit. It almost seemed that Iva had forgotten the perils through which she had passed. **But, she’s an awful little coward,” continued the girl. ‘‘Sheis afraid of the dark, of a mouse, of everything.” Steve smiled cynically, but she did not see ‘* It’s an awful wonder bow she happened to go with Big Ben and the otbers to-day. She must have been crazy because there was such a charge My gracious| If Big Ben captured you, you must have seen Julia!” ** T did,” came calmly from Steve's lips, ** What makes you speak so strangely ?” He besitated about replyizg, and then tried to parry the question: “ Did I speak strangely?” PT eg yoice sounded so harsh. What made it’ “T dou’t know. How long will it take us to make the ranch?” But she was not to be turned aside in sucha “There is something I do not understand be- tween you and Julia.” ; ‘How preposterous! We happened to know each other some time ago; that is all.” “Ab, but 7s it all? Itseems to me you must have had a lover's quarrel, or something of the sert. I remember how strangely you both ap- — when you came face to face at the ranch, ar sure you both hesitated about speaking.” The Ranch Mascot said ng “ Lovers’ quarrels are silly,” Iva continued, with an air of great wisdom. ‘ Lots of times they separate loving hearts and cause lots of misery all about nothing. Now, if you and Julia have quarreled, I advise you to make right up.” ‘Bless your little heart!” half-laughed the idsome young cowboy. ‘“ You are wasting all this good advice. Julia and I are nothing to each other and can never be anything.” “ But don’t you really love ber?” “ Not at all—not in the slightest degree.” “* Honest and true?” “On my honor. Would I be otherwise with you” j s How?” ‘* Well, I’m sorry for Julia, but—but—I might feel worse.” ‘ This confession was made in the most artless manner imaginable, ‘You and I have always been pretty good friends, Steve,” coyly observed the girl, after several minutes of silence, ‘* You baye been my good angel, Iva,” he de- clared, with deep feeling, ‘‘ As long as I live, I'll not forget you!” , ‘*T’m soglad! But, if you goaway where you can’t see me, you may forget.” ‘** There is no danger of that.” Anvther period of silence. ‘* Steve.” “ Well, Iva?” ‘7 have thought about going away, myself.” ** You—going away? Where?” ‘*Oh, 1 don’t know—somewhere. You don’t intend to become a cattlieman, do you?” ‘*7 do not think I shall.” “T don’t blame you, I’m not dead stuck on this living on a ranch, though I tell father it’s great. Do you prefer living in a city?” ‘*T believe so.” “*T believe I do, too. Runniag a ranch is just a freak of father’s, and be’ll lose all bis luck when vou leave him. I told him so.” ‘*T trust that will not come true.” ‘*‘ Father does not know you as well as I do,” ‘Tt is possible you do not know me as well as you think you do, Miss Milton. If you knew the truth, your admiration for me would be in- stantly killed.” ** Never !” she cried, decisively. ‘*1¢ will be brought to the test, for I am going to tell you all. Miss Milton, your rescue from those outlaws to-night was all a farce, I con- fess it was the only way L could free you from their clutcbes, but it was agreed upon between Red Dan and myseif.” Me was shocked into silence. **Not one of the shots which I fired took ef- feet, for my revolvers were losded with blank cartridges, We were not pursued at all, and at no time was I in the least danger.” ** But—but—why—” ‘* Why was thisdone? That I might take you back to Rainbow Ranch and pose as a hero, It was not my scheme, believe me; it was that of Red Dan, the Rustler. He wants me to act as his spy.” “ ‘His spy? You—will—not do that?” ‘*No! decidedly! I deceived him into think- ing I had accepted bis proposition, but I bad not the least intention of doing such a thing.” ‘*Then—then you are a hero, just the sama Steve! You fooled the Rustler chief and save me from him,” **T did all that. But you haye not heard the worst,” ‘ss No?” - “This man—this cattle-thief, murderer— claims tbat I am his son,” A ery of borror broke from the girl’s lips, * Tt is not true!” she gasped. ‘ It cannot be!” “Tam not sure of that, Miss Milton, My early life is shadowed by a great mystery, and he brought what seemed to be proof that Iam what he claims,” For a few moments, the girl was silent; then she cried; **T will not believe it true—nothing in all the world can ever make me believe it!” Loyal little Iva! CHAPTER X. i THE RETURN TO THE RANCH, Tue lights of Ruinbow Ranch were to be seen in the distance, when a borse and rider suddenly wheeled out of a little patch of timber and drew to a stand-still in their path, ‘*Who’s there?” challenged Silver Spur, his hand on a ready revolver, ‘* A harmless old pilgrim—at least, I think I am harmless, Whoare you? [ seem to recog- nize that voice—that is, I think I seem to recog- nize it.” ‘* Doctor Dirk!” se] am pretty sure that is my name, And ou— ‘*The man you belped to his liberty some hours ago,” ** Well, I declare—there’s not a doubz about it —I do declare! I didn’t think of meeting you again to-night. Now that statement is not ac- eurate, I should have said I did not think I would meet you again to-night. I thought of meeting you more thanonce, But you seem to have a companion,” “A young lady whom, by good fortune and deception, I saved from the rascals who had kidnapped her. You know told you of War- ren Milton and Rainbow Ranch?” “*T think I know it,” ** Well, this is Milton’s daughter,” **Young lady,” said the queer old doctor, re- moving bis hat and bowing in the darkness, “I salute you. I am Simon Dirk, M. D., an old crank, I suppose I am an old crank, for almost everybody calls me that. I trust you are not harmed by the perils through which you have passed?” ** Not at all, sir, thank you.” - “You must be pretty—at least, that is my judgment, for you have a sweet voice. You won’t mind if | appear a trifle queer at times? This is put in the form of a questicn.” ** Ob, no, sir; Pl not mind,” “Thank you. I am thinking of going on to Rainbow Ranch, That is bow I came bere— searching for 1t, I bad just detected the light glimmering yonder when 1] heard you approach- ing, and saw you through the darkness, I thought you must be going tbither, so | ventured to joiu you,” : ‘*You are a most unsophisticated man, doc- tor—apparently—or you would not risk so much on an uncertainty. Whatif we had proved to be ruffians and robbers?” ‘*My dear sir, I am quite at home among ruffians and robbers, I sometimes find them realiy entertaining and jolly. Up to date, they have never injured me in any way. ‘* But, young man, you are thrusting your head into tbe lion’s jaws by returning to Kain- bow Ranch, On this point [ will venture to make a positive assertion.” ‘* Why do you say that?” ** Because i lay in concealment after I effected your release and overheard the conversation of the cattlemen when they returned, 1 think you will find yourself in a tight box if you go back there now. The evidence is against you, and Sar may not be able to prove your innocence, his man who was murdered was very popular— at least, L infer as much,” ‘* Which is right.” ‘Then take my advice and stay away from the ranch,” ‘ ; ‘© Impossible! They would surely think me a coward and guilty,’ ‘* Let them think so for a time, young man, if you are able to prove your innocence in the end. I ave a theory. I believe you have a foe at Rainbow Ranch, and that he has sought to destroy you. The trap is well arranged—at least, soit seems. Once caught fast, you will not be given time to prove your innocence, Is it not better to keep away until you can bring a perfect. alibi?” ** But staying away from the ranch will not aid me in bringing it,” ‘*1¢ will—that is, I believe it will.” ‘6 How?” ‘**T intend stopping at the ranch a while,” “* Well?” ‘*T will look out for your interests.” ‘Tn what way?’ ‘I will play the detective, I presume you trust this young woman or—abem!—girl?” ‘* With my life.” ‘¢Tt is possible she will aid me in the work of establishing your innocence?” ‘*T will do everything in my power,” assured va. ‘* Now that seems to fix it—really, you must confess it seems to fix it, We will work together for your final vindication. It is possible we sball be able to expose and bring to justice your enemy—the one who killed Clark and made the deed seem your work.” Steve was silent for some moments, then he suddenly exclaimed: “Pil be hanged if I can understand your motive in this, old man!” “Never mind if you can’t understand it now. I have a motive—at least, I think I have one, That may be revealed later on—and it may not be. You had better trust me,” “No! Tbey would alisay Iamacoward! I must go and face it,” ‘ “It is better to be called a coward, and live to be vindicated, than it is to be considered nervy‘and find yourself Jyneched for something you never did, Anyhow, that is the way I look at the matter.” y *‘ Doctor Dirk is right,” asserted Iva. , Then she joined in urging Steve to remain away from Rainbow Ranch until some evidence could be obtained in his favor, ‘“‘T gee this is the best course now,” she de- clared, ‘‘They were very fierce against you, and you may not be given a fairshow. For my sake, please don’t go back there now.” ‘‘ What shall I do?” was the Ranch Mascot’s helpless question. ** Remain near af band.” *

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Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. “‘ Hiding, like a dog! Ill never—” , ‘¢ Now don’t be hasty,” urged the oily voice of the odd little doctor, ‘Just consider it a little.” It was a long time before they could persuade Steve to adopt the course suggested, but they finally succeeded. Then Iva was transferred to the doctor’s horse, and they were ready to art. f Iva held out her hand to Steve, ; ‘¢Remember, we will do our best,” she said, ze Something tells me we shall succeed in clearing you,’ *) trust so; but I shall only remain away ten days, If you do not notify me to appear before the end of that time, I shall give myself up and meet my trial,” “Ten days are Dirk, ‘ At least, cient.” ‘‘T shall always know yon are innocent,” whispered Iva, still clinging to Steve’s hand. **7 thank you for your faith.” A few words more, and then Steve watched them riding toward the twiakling light, ‘*T feel like a sneak,” ko muttered; ‘out I have agreed to lay Jow, and I suppose I must, It is the first time in all my life lever did such a thing.” When Dr, Dirk and Iva arrived at Rain- bow Ranch they found everything in confusion. No one slept about the place, ching-parties were out for Iva, and Big Ben’s trailers had not come in, Warren Milton was out soméwhere with the searchers, In front of the ranch a flagstaff bad been erected some months before, and, as soon as Iva appeared, a red light was run up to the bead of this staff. This was to notify the searchers of the fact that the lost was found, However, dawn was at baud, and it was near midday whea all the searchers came in. Warren Milton was among the last, and his joy was deep and speechless when he beld his daughter in hisarms, His pale face and blood- shotten eyes told of the bitter agony be had en- dured, Of course, Iva was compelled to tell all about her capture and how she was rescued from the Rustlers, ‘Steve Norman’s actions were com- mented on variously, but ali wondered at his failure to return to the ranch with ber, ‘Looks mighty bad,” muttered one cowboy to another. ‘Ther cuss may hev saved Miss Iva, but he darsen’t face ther charge ag’in’ him. reckon he wiped out Dick shore enough,” **T reckon so, too,” agreed the other. These things were not said io Iva’s presence, but she caught a word mow and then, and it was with difficulty she could keep from defending the yo cowboy. But— She not forgotten the ‘‘ bond of blood,” She could not tell them the whole truth, for she knew that would make the outlook sti!l blacker for Steve. : It was nearly night when Big Ben and his three companions returned to the ranch, They looked crestfallen and humiliated, Jim Grant being overcome with shame, Grant was astounded beyond measure when Warren Milton handed him a sum of money, saying: “ You know my rules about gambling while on duty, Grant. Here is the sum you lost toa atranger last night, and you may consider your- self lucky to obtain it again.” “ Why—why—how—” stammered the cow- uite sufficient,” assured Dr, grains them quite suffi- y: “The money was given me for you by tho man who won it from you.” “Whar is he?” howled Jim, in sudden fury. ‘Ther derned onery little rip! PU jest para- lyze—” 5 ““How do you do, my frierd—at least, you should be my friend, sir,” said an oily voice, and Dr. Dirk appeared on the Scene, bowing blandly. “Holy smoke!” shouted the cowboy. ‘ Hyar he is! t me hammer—” ; Warren Milton’s hand arrested him. “Stop!” commanded the ramcher, ‘“ This man is my guest, He has done me a service, and he is not to be harmed while he remains be- . meath my roof,” “* But ther critter doped me an set Steve free!” ‘“* By so doing be rendered me a srvice at the time, for Steve rescued Iva. Let it drop.” And Jim was forced to resist his desire to hammer the odd little doctor, CHAPTER XI, THE BULLWHACKER’S BLOW. THE cowhoys were not inclined to place much confidence in Silver Spur Steve's assertion that hhe would return to the ranch within ten days. =~ nT ‘* He'd ’a’ come right erlong, ef he wuz comin’,” was the universal opinion, They did not take at allkindly to old Dr, Dirk, but, as the doctor was a guest, he escaped rough treatment, “Ther old varmint better keep out of my way!” Jim Grant growled more than once, “Ef I see bim round too much, I may fergit w’at ther boss said,” For all of this, the doctor was around a great ceal, In fact, he seemed to be everywhere, and his eyes and ears were always open, In vain searching parties were sent out to look for Julia Ruthven, She seemed to have disap- peared completely, and it-was thought she had wandered away into the Blue Hills and perished there. Tbinking of her lost friend, Little lva wept herself ill, The missing girl had reported her- self as living with her aunt, but she had given no one at Rainbow Ranch the address of this aunt, ‘* We shall not be able to notify her friends of her disappearance,” said Warren Milton. Dick Clark, the murdered cowboy, was given a rather elaborate funeral, cattlemen from all the surrounding ranches being present and a minister from Blue Nose being engaged to ‘ orate,” The minister spoke highly of the dead cowboy, but the principal mourners agreed he didn’t ‘* pile it on a bit too thick,” When the funeral was all over, the men of Rainbow Ranch turned their attention to find- ing the missing girl and capturing Steve Nor- man, Five days passed, and neither of these things was accomplisbed, Then it was decided Steve had fled the section and Julia was dead, without a doubt, With the disappearance of the Ranch Mascot bad luck seemed to immediately return to Rain- bow, for the Rustlers broke into the corral and ran off all the finest horses kept there. Fortun- ately, the very best animals were kept in the stable, and these were not stolen, Some of them, bowever, died in a very suspicious man- ner, and investigation showed they were poison- ed. Cattle among the grazing herds also began to fall dead in an amazing manner, and one night the ranch was found afire. Sharp work extinguished the flame, but bad it not been dis- covered soon after starting, the ranch would have been destroyed. “I told you!” cried Iva, when her father com- plained of the sudden manner in which all these things had come upon him, ‘'Tke moment Steve, left our fortune vanished. He was the Mascot of Rainbow,” “Pshaw!” exclaimed Milton, ‘*That is all nonsense!” “You may think so, but I am sure it is not nonsense,” One day the report came that Silver Spur Steve bad been seen in Blue Nose. This created no little excitement, and Big Ben immediately asked permission to take over a party of men and see if be could not be captured. Milton did not object to this. Five of the cowboys rode ever to Blue Nose, Yellow Jack being with them. Although he had said nothing, the Spaniard bad séareely closed his eyes since the disappearance of Julia Ruth- ven. He bad managed to be included in all the parties who went out in search for the girl, and he was always the most reluctant about return- ing to the ranch, An attempt to chaff him about this bad aroused his fiercest anger and nearly caused a fight, Jack seemed quite downcast and blue, The party arrived in Blue Nose at about nine in the evening, and they proceeded to the prin- cipal saloon, the ‘* Sunset,” without delay. To their astonishment, the first person they saw on entering was little Dr. Dirk. j ‘The onery little spider!” growled Big Ben. * Why, we left him at ther ranch w’en we start- ed! ow ther rollin’ thunder did he git hyar?” That was a quostion easier asked than answer- ed, The little doctor was there, and that was about all they knew about it. ' “We won’t see nuthin’ of Steve Norman,” as- serted Jim Grant, ‘Thet fake doctor hes gi’n hima pointer. Thet’s jest w’at he’s hyar fer, you bet!” “ Caramba !” exclaimed Yellow Jack. ‘Give him the knife!” ‘* Say,” broke in Budd Rogers, ‘‘ now is our time to do Doctor Dirk. Heis not at Rainbow Ranch, and so he hain’t under the protection of Milton, Let’s fix him!” ‘*Hold on,” commanded Big Ben, ‘ Thar hain’t goin’ ter be no shootin’ or cuttin’, I reckon one man hed best tackle him,” ‘Then I’m ther galoot!” urged Jim Grant, It was decided Grant had the greatest griev- ance against the doctor, and he was permitted to do the “* punishing.” ‘Youre my meat!” declared Jim, as he swag- ays up to the little man, ‘ You’re the lulu ’m lookin’ fer!” “Really,” smiled Dirk, ‘I dislike to correct A sat but it is best to be proper in your speech, ou are not looking for me at all, as you have alreary found me.” ‘Oh, you won’t bother ter be so derned cor- rect arter I hev done with yer! I’m goin’ ter punch ther face off ye!” ‘You mean you think you are going to do this violent thing. As to your doing so, there are various opinions about that,” ‘You won’t be no more’n a pinch fer me.” ‘‘That is another thing of which you cannot be absolutely certain.” ‘© Waal, ’'m comin’,” ‘*Sa-ay,” drawled Dr, Dirk, suddenly pro- ducing a revolver and appearing to examine it in a most interested manner, ‘‘suppose we talk this affair over a bit.” The sight of the revolver took Grant by sur-: prise, “You measly little imp!” he gasped. ‘Do you think of usin’ that ?” ‘*T have seriously contemplated it,” confessed the doctor, Jim took a long step and reached for the wea- pon, intending to snatch it from Dirk’s hand, © was not successful, Like a cat the odd little doctor stepped aside, and the muzzle of the weapon was thrust fairly against the cowboy’s right ear. ‘“*You tempt me—I am sure you tempt me seriously,” said the oily voice of the little man, ‘*{ don’t really care to kill you, but I have found it good policy to look out for number one, Having expressed himself thus, he suddenl retreated a few steps, being beyond Grant’s reach when that astonished worthy whirled in his tracks, “¢ Holy smoke!” gasped Jim, ‘Be you lookin’ fer trouble of that sort?” ‘*T am not Jooking for trouble of any sort.” -* Then putt up yer gun,” “ap And allow you to pound me—no, thank ou. “Then Pi—” ‘¢T don’t think you will.” The cowboy found himself ‘‘ covered,” and the weapon in the small man’s hand did not quivera bit, ‘*Hyar! hyar!” cried the proprietor of the saloon, ‘ No shootin’ round this ranch!” “Then keep this man away from me, sir,” said the odddoctor, ‘‘ If he insists on botherin me, I think I shall blow the whole upper side o his head off,” ‘¢ Wat yer want ter crowd a little galoot fer?” demanded Hunk Jones, the saloon-keeper, who was a most desperate character, always having plenty of bangers-on who would leap into a tight at his call, ‘* You git, an’ leave the small critter be!” “c But—” **1 tell you ter git!” Jim went back to his companions, ‘* Look here,” he said, ‘do we want to tackle Hunk Jones and his gang?” ** Not much!” ‘Then we'll hev ter wait tell Doc Dirk leaves the saloon. Jones stands in with him,” Among those who bad watched this scene was a ana capri | fellow whose face was covered by a bristling black beard. His dress was that of eattleman or bullwhacker, but there were no weapons in the leather belt that surronnded his waist. He stood with his feet planted wide apart and his bands on his bips, Seeing the doctor was in no danger of being harmed just then, this man turned his attention to a strange masked boy, who was venturin money on a game of chance called Red an Black, In some respects Red and Black is like faro, only four packs of cards are shuffled together and thrust into the box, As the dealer pulls the cards from the box, he places three of them in separate piles without exposing them; tho fourth is exposed and is afterward placed in another pile, face upward, player can bet that red or black will turn, or can lay a wager on bigh or low, the suit or the card that will turn. Even money is paid on red or black and high and low, the splits being the bank’s percentage. On suit the player gets three to one, having one ecbancein four, If he calls the card, he gets thirty-six to one, but he bes only one chance in fifty-two. Unless run by a crooked

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\ i t *: : ae An 8) dealer, the game is purely one of chance, and the chance is in favor of the bank, The strange masked boy had attracted con- siderable attention to his playing, as he was something of a ‘* plunger,” and he seemed to be lucky. Time after time he placed his chips in three positions—on red, low and diamonds—and won all three ventures. His playing was utter- ly without method, and yet fortune clung to him, Twice in succession he called the card, winning thirty-six to one, ‘“Ef be keeps this up, he'll break the bank,” was the word passed around. “You're dead in it, young feller,” nodded the dealer. The boy bowed, but made no reply. ** Who is he?” The question passed from mouth to mouth, but no one seemed able to answer it. ‘* Most likely some kid as don’t want his pap to know,” was the almost universal opinion. There was a strange look in the eyes of the black-whiskered bullwhacker, as he continued to watch the boy. He crowded close to the table. ‘*Hello, there!” called the dealer, want to get into this game?” The bullwhacker shook his head, ‘*Nary time, pard,” he replied. bu’sted wide open—scooped.” “Then don’t crowd ahead of others,” ** Carajo!” cried Yellow Jack, who wastrying to get up to the table, ‘‘ Get out of the way and let me have a chance, great calf!” ** Whoop!” shouted the bullwhacker, his beard seeming to bristle fiercely. ‘‘ W’at was that I heerd? Did you refer to me, you yaller-skinned | | peng ah The Spaniard fairly gasped with rage. “Do you Tm clean **' Yes, you! you! you!” he cried, ‘Get out of the way, dog!” With a surge of his powerful arms, the bull- whacker sent the crowd swaying to the right and left. The next instant, he took one long step forward and delivered a swing blow that caught Yellow Jack fairly between the eyes, Psy Spaniard measured his length on the oor, CHAPTER XII, SOME STARTLING EXPOSURES, ‘“ WoosH!” cried the black-whiskered man, flourishing his clinched fistsin the air. ‘*’ma sbudderiu’ horror w’en I’m started. One blow means sickness, two blows means death?” Yellow Jack did not offer to arise. He was fairly knocked senseless! **Humpin’ Jebosiphat!” gasped ‘a spectator, ** Pd ruther be hit by chain-lightnin’ than one of that feller’s mauls!” It happened that the cowboys from Rainbow Ranch were iu another part of the room, and they knew nothing of the trouble until Jack was dragged out and stretched on a billiard table. Then they excitedly demanded to know what had happened, They were told the exact truth, and Yellow Jack received very little sympathy from them, although they were inclined to think it a disgrace that one of their party should be knocked out at a single blow, In fact, the Paapiars was not popular among his own mates, ben Jack recovered consciousness, he swore he would have the bullwhacker’s life, However, the offender was not to be found, and the ae again sought a place at the gambling e, : The masked boy’s luck had turned and he was losing steadily. Still be remained cool and easy, - if not in the least concerned how fortune used im. } Just as Yellow Jack reached the table, another sport entered the game, He was a rather fine- looking fellow, the most of his face being cov- ered by a perfectly-trimmed brown beard. His dress was rather picturesque and flashy, and he wore a great amount of jowelry. There was not a diamond to be seen upon his person, rubies being the only stones he wore. ‘* It’s Ruby Rob,” said more than one. Yellow Jack looked at the sport with in- terest. He had often heard of Ruby Rob, a strange and mysterious gambler who appeared and disappeared in a most unaccountable man- ner, The sport purchased two stacks of chips and made a wager. “It’s hke throwing money away, ’ he laughed; “but a fellow must have something for excite- ment. Blue Nose is getting distressinglv dull.” Jack found a seat between Ruby Rob and the strange boy, and he entered the game, The boy started when he saw Jack take a ! seat at his side, and then he waited for the Spaniard to place his bets. When Jack had -done so, the boy bet exactly opposite, Again the strange lad’s luck changed, for he began winning once more, while Yellow Jack lost almost continuously, Ruby Rob risked large sums, and seemed ut- terly indifferent whether he won or lost. The Spaniard was annoyed by the persistency with which the boy bet opposite him. If he placed his money on red, the boy would put up an equal sum on black; if he bet on high, the boy would make a venture on low. Ani the masked lad won, “* Por Dios !” grated Juck, ‘Iam hoodooed !” Then he looked up and saw the bullwhacker who had struck him watching the game, For an instant the Spaniard was tempted to pull a revolver and take a snap-shot at the bull- whacker, but, knowing he would be lynched without ceremouy if he made a blunder, he curbed bis anger and pretended he did not see the black-whiskered man, Something about the masked boy attracted Jack’s attention, and he began watching the strange lad covertly from the corners of his eyes. It was not long before he faucied he had made a discovery, ‘“* Why does the young senor always bet op- posite me?” Jack finally inquired, his voice being pitched at a low key, but his mauner seeming offensive, The boy turned a single look on him and then calmly counted his chips, placing them in little stacks, and making no reply to the question, Yellow Jack flushed hotly. ‘* Why doesn’t senor answer my question?’ he demanded. Ruby Rob leaned forward and tapped the Spaniard lightly on the sleeve, “The kid hasa right to place his bets as he sees fit,” said the mysterious sport, ‘* Senor,” came haughtily from Jack’s lips, ‘* I was not addressing you!” *“That’s all right,” laughed Ruby Rob, ‘I took a fancy to shoot a little mouth at you. Do you mean to remain in the game?” ‘* Perhaps,” “Oh, allright. If you thought of zetting out, I was going to suggest you did so at once, al- lowing a waiting frievd of mine to have that chair.” ‘Will you tell me why you persist in betting opposite me?” the Spaniard asked, once more turning on the boy, The masked lad shook his head, but did not speak, ‘*T consider it an insult, senor!” Still the mask was silent, ‘* Will you show me your face?” Another sbake of the head. “*T demand it!” A still more emphatic shake, © 7 will see it ]” With that he snatched the mask from the face it bad concealed, A ery of surprise arose, Tho face of a beautiful girl was revealed! And that girl was— Julia Ruthven! The black-whiskered bullwhacker seemed more astonished than any one, * T thought as much!” triumpbantly exclaim- ed Yellow Jack, “You cowardly dog!” grated Ruby Rob, his fingers closing on the Spaniard’s throat, ‘I will choke the life out of your miserable body!” But Jack was not so easily conquered. He turned on the sport with the fury of a tiger, A savage struggle ensued, the two men going to the floor, ** Make room! make room!” The crowd fell back a bit, giving the two plenty of space to struggle in. ‘* Let them settle it! Don’t touch them!” Suddenly, the Spaniard arose upon the other’s breast, uplifting bis right hand, in which glit- tered the keen blade of a slender knife, He in- tended to drive the wicked weapon into the gambler’s throat, but his wrist was caught in an iron grip, and Ruby Rob’s life was spared. It was the black-whiskered bushwhacker who had saved the card-sharp. In another moment, Ruby Rob had struggled up and the battle was renewed. In the midst of it, the Spaniard’s fingers closed in the gambler’s beard, which, to the surprise of all, came off. The beard was false, and the face exposed was recognized by several, “Red Dan, the Rustler!” The sport was indeed the chief of the outlaws. Finding his identity exposed, the Rustler tore himself from Yellow Jack’s grasp and sought to escape from the room, Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. “Stop him!” roared Big Ben, forcing his way forward. ‘ He’s my game!” ‘ ‘*-Yours to catch,” half-laughed the outlaw, as he leaped to the top of the gambling table. And then he sprung out and seemed to skim over the heads of the crowd. ‘““He’s' making for a window!” howled some- one, as Red Dan landed on the floor and con- tinued his rush for liberty, The only thing that could stop him now was a bullet, Crack! The outlaw was at the window when the wea- pon spoke, In another moment he would have leaped through and escaped, but he was stopped by a bullet. Flinging up his arms, he 3unk limply to the floor. There was a moment’s hush following the fall of the Rustler chief, and then one wild yell of triumpl) went up. Red Dan had long troubled that section, but now he was down, The crowd rushed toward the fallen man, Big Ben leading. But the black-whiskered bushwhacker was there first. Planting a foot on either side of the unlucky outlaw, bo flashed a pair of heavy revolvers from some hidden pocket, thrusting the muzzles of the weapons almost against Big Ben’s fore- head, as he shouted: ; ‘* Back! The man who puts a band on him dies in his tracks!” That stopped the rush, and the mob halted, staring in astonishment at the lone man who dared them all. ‘“ Who are you?’ the astounded foreman of Rainbow Ranch finally asked, “Don’t you know me?” 6s No,” Without dropping either revolver, he lifted a hand and removed the false beard he wore, almost instantly turning the revolver on the crowd again. ‘Now you know me, Ben Jordan!” The men from Rainbow Ranch uttered cries of amazement, ‘It’s Silver Spur Steve!” they shouted. CHAPTER XIII, RED DAN MAKES HIS BOW, AND Steve it really was! ‘¢ Howlin’ blizzards!” gasped Bud Rogers, “ Wat'll ther néxt critter turn out ter be?” sS Srevem cried Big Ben. ‘“‘Is it really ther ? ‘sae Ranch Mascot smiled at the astonishment his unmasking had created, ‘© You're surprised, pards,’ ‘© Wa-al, jest a leetle!” ‘* Caramba !” snarled Yellow Jack, edging to the front. ‘‘ Now he shows bis hand! I bavea blow against him, and he shall pay for it!” ‘Tf yon know when your health is well off, you will keep at a proper distance,” declared the outcast from Rainbow Ranch, turning one of tho revolvers on the Spaniard. ‘I have no par- ticular love for you.” ‘6 Love is not wasted between us, senor!” “ T trust not.” ‘* But w’at’s ther meanin’ of this?” asked the huge foreman. ‘* W’at you defendin’ that cuss fer? “*T have the best of reasons.” \ ‘This makes things look powerful bad ag’in’ ye, boy. Idid hey a little hope you’d pull out of tother scrape, but this settles it,” ‘*T suppose that now, without further argu- ment, you will adjudge me guilty of the charge against me” - ‘¢ You shall have a show,” ‘* Very well. In four days more I will return to stand my trial.” “You will return now,” “ You mean—” ‘‘That you are going back to Rainbow Ranch with us—just that.” * Are you sure?” *¢ Dead sure.” ‘‘Dead sure things sometimes fail to work. However, I will give myself up, if you will allow the friends of this unfortunate man to take him away.” ‘* We'll make no such bargain. If he is dead—” ‘* He is not,” Steve had seen Red Dan open bis eyes and — look up at bim in a wondering manner, and he knew the outlaw chief was far from being dead, If this man was his father, he was in duty Loh to do all be could to save him from the mob. -“ Waal,” said Big Ben, “all I got ter say is

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als oh dai a Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. 11. it’s ther wu’st fer him not bein’ dead, He’d be in great luck ef he was planted six feet under ther daisies,” ‘*T hold the drop, and I will defend him to the end, so far as tuis mob is concerned,” ‘*The more fool you!” ** Perhaps so, but that does not cut any figure. I am not going to see him lynched,” ** What is he ter you?” ** That question I refuse to answer.” ** What’s all this chin about?’ broke in a citi- zen of Blue Nose. ‘‘The man we wantis Red Dan, and he’s the man we're going to have. No boy witha brace of gunscan stopus. You're only making a fool of yourself by trying it, young fellow.” ** Now you’re talking through your hat,” calm- ly returned Steve, ‘‘ You don’t know whether I am making a fool of myself or not. I may be a match for this whole gang, forall you can ee Bosh ” Very well, wade inand take Red Dan, I promise youl will create a certain amount of interest in the job,” ‘* For the last time, will you give him up?” “Wor the last time, not to this mob, Bring the proper official and let him guarantee me Red Dan shall be protected from Judge Lynch, and I will step aside. [am not flinging myself‘in the track of the law; [am simply defying law- lessness,” * That's all Tommy-rot!” “It may be, but it goes.” “Steve,” said Big Ben, soberly, ‘‘ we’re goin’ to take that critter, You had best fling up ther sponge an’ let things hev theirrun, Ef ye don’t, you'll git most mightily hurt.” “ Nary fling, Ben.” We're comin’!” ** Then look out for bullets!” But, at this point, adozen masked faces ap- peared at the windows and as many rifle-barrels were thrust into the saloon. ‘*Hold hard, there!” cried a ringing voice. **We have the dropon that mob, and we cau wipe it out in less than a minute!” Red Dan suddenly sat up, wiping some blood from the side of his face and smiling serenly, ‘* Those are my boys,” he announced, ‘ They areon hand, likea glove, Now, gents, if you want me real bad, just sail right inand take me. I'm like a ripe plum—reaiy to be plucked,” But the tables were turned, and the mob knew it. Red Dan held the winning cards, The outlaw arose to his feet, appearing a bit unsteady, as if somewhat dazed by bis wound, but all the while cool and deliberate, * This is proving to be a large-sized night,” he observed. ‘I was looking for a little excite- ment—and I found it. Some cuss came near winding up my worsted, just as bard,” signifi- cantly touching the bloody side of his head, ** It’s a derned pity he didn’t!” growled a voice from the center of the mob, Red Dan laughed. “ You may think so, but I can’t agree with ou. Ashe failed, I think I will be getting out. would be pleased if I had more time to spend with you, but business calls, I have an engage- ment to cut out a big herd of cattle before morn- ing, and so I must leave you, ** Come, boy, we will go.” “T beg your _pardoa,” said Steve, coldly. “You may gc. Iremuin here,” The Rustler was surprised, **Not much you don’t!” he cried, * These whelps would swing you, after what you have done for me!” ‘Let ’em swing. I only prevented the mob from doing you up. Had there been an cflicer handy, I would have turned you over to him, You should understand why I kept them from lynching you.” *Ob,- they would not have gone very far with their lynching, for my boys would have come down on them before they could finish the job. All the same, you kept them off me, and I appreciate it. I’m not going to leave you to be chewed up by this lot of snarling wolves.” — - Many thanks; but I really prefer being “That does not make any difference, You are going along with me,” “ Are you sure?” * Certain.” “Tr I refuse—” ** You will be taken.” **Then you will bave to take me.” Red Dan made a signal, and acoil of rope shot through one of the open windows. A noose set- tled over Steve’s shoulders, and then the young cattleman was snatched toward the window. In another moment he was dragged outside. I “That closes the performance,” bowed Red Dan, after which he, too, leaped out through the window and disappeared. Immediately the rifles vanished from the windows, and the Rust- lers were gone, The mob within the saloon looked dazed, star- ing from one to the other. Finally Big Ben ex- claimed, in the greatest disgust: ‘““ We're a pretty pack of birds! Hyar we hed Red Dan and Steve Norman in our fingers an’ they hev slipped us! Oh, I feel like hiring a mule to kick me!” Yellow Jack frothed with fury, Suddenly, the entire mob dashed out into the street. They were in time to hear the clatter of hoofs far down the street, and then to their ears came the sound of a wild roliicking song from the throats of the retreating Rustlers, That was enough tomake Blue Nose rise up on its hind legs and howl, figuratively speaking. The entire town was seething. In the midst of all this excitement, Big Ben thought of Julia Ruthven, who had been play- ing the role of a mysterious masked boy. The giant foreman rushed back into the Sunset Saloon and searched for her, She had vanished, and no one knew anything about her, It sexmel that she disappeared im- mediately after being exposed in her true char- acter. , The events of that night were enough to fur- nish material for gossip in Blue Nose for some time to come, True, no one had been killed, but Red Dan had visited the town with his men at his back for the first time in two years. Now that his disguise as Ruby Rob was exposed, they knew he bad visited them at other times, but never with his entire band within call. The most chagrined men in Blue Nose were the cowboys from Rainbow Ranch, ‘¢ Tt’s a howlin’ shame!” growled Bud Rogers, ‘‘ Thar we hed Steve Normanan’ Red Dan right in our fingers!” ‘¢ Don’t speak of it!” sighed Jim Grant, “It gives me great pain!” ‘But ther gal!” putin theforeman. “I can’t understand w’at she was up ter.” ‘* Whar has she gone?” ‘* Thet’s ter find out,” ‘** Waal, she hain’t dead so much as we reckon- ed she wus.” ‘‘ Not any dead.” They talked the matter over, finally deciding they could do nothing more than return to the ranch, “ We'll git guyed,” said one. ‘¢Ther galoot who tries it ’Iljbe taken witha fit of sickness,” declared Big Ben, ‘I hain’t in no humor ter take any guyin’ ’bout this biz.” They gathered up their borses end rode out of town, leaving the aroused citizens bolding an in- dignation meeting in the principal hotel, “‘ They’ll offer a little reward fer ther capture of Red Dan, an’ thet’s all it'll ’mount to,” said Big Ben. CHAPTER XIV. JULIA STRIKES, IN retreating from Blue Nose, the Rustlers carried Cowboy Steve with them. He did not go along willingly, and, finding that he was liable to give them the slip, Red Dan ordered him to be bound to his horse, ‘*1t’s only right and proper that a boy should obey bis dad,” chuckled the outlaw, ‘TI haven't had a very good chance to train you in the past, and I mean to improve the present oppor- tunity.” ** And make me regret I saved you from the mob,” retorted Steve, bitterly, ‘Not at all, Iam only doing what I con- sider for your own good, my son.” “Tam old enough to know what is for my own good.” “€Oh, well, we won't quarrel about it,” Away into the night rede the Rustlers, Cow- boy Steve in their midst. Red Dan had not been at all seriously wounded in the saloon, only being stunned for a moment, and he was in good spirits, A long ride through the night followed, At length, they halted and a brief consultation followed, Then Steve was carefully blind- folded, ** A precaution at which I trust you will take no offense,” softly purred Red Dan. The helpless Mascot did not reply. _ They went forward again, and he soon real- ized they were passing deep intoan underground passage, At length they halted, and the bandage was removed from the captive’s eyes, after which ha was pulled from the horse, being held upon his feet by strong hands. ——_ _ ’_..O .) 0 ee oe OS ees sss ooo * Here we are, pard,” declared a rough voice, “Right sight up, with care, Just keep your level, now,” ‘Many thanks for your advice,” retorted Steve, cheerfully, ‘‘ We may be here, but I would like to ask where here is?” ‘“You’ll bev ter ask somebody as has ther right to answer,” assured his companion, Lights were moving on either band, and voices were calling toeach other. Horses were being led across the cavern floor. Steve looked around, his hands being secured behind him, wondering what they would do with him next. “Tf my hands were only free and I had my barkers!” he muttered. ‘Great Moses! but I would make it lively about here! I donot fancy this kind of treatment, and I propose to show my resentment at the first opportunity.” He was not left alone long, A slouching figure approached, and a rasping voice invited him to ‘‘foller.” As there was nothing else to do, he followed the man with the rasping voice, Steve was conducted to a lighted chamber, in which there was some rude furniture, and then he was left alone, being advised to ‘‘ take things easy. : Left to his own reflections, he thought over all that bad occurred, soon coming to the conclu- sion that be had made a fool of himself, ‘* My stand for Red Dan will count against me,” he muttered, ‘* They will believe I have joined the Rastlers. That will settle it in their minds that J wiped out poor Dick Clark, It wes on the impulse of the moment that I kept the mob from jumping Red Dan. Just then I only remembered be was my father-—or that he bad brought good evidence to that effect. I did not propose to buck against the law; I simply stood up against lawlessness, At the same time IT was defending an outlaw, “And what was my reward? Here Iam, @ helpless prisoner in Red Dan’s bands, He drag- ged me here against my will, and— Great guns! I’m still trussed up!” For a few moments he had almost forgotten his hands were still confined bebind him, ana now, when he tried to move them, he suddenly became madly enraged. Hurrying to the heavy door that kad closed behind the man with the rasping voice, he tried to open it, but was not successful, ‘** Infernal hounds!” he grated, pacing furious- ly up and down the chamber, “I will yet get square for this!” His back was turned on the door when it open- ed softly and a beautiful girlish face appeared. A pair of large blue eyes gazed wistfully at the manly figure of the young cowboy, and then tho girl entered. Her step was 80 light he did uot hear it until—- “* Steve!” Wheeling, be saw her standing before him, ** You here?” A look of surprise was quickly replaced by @ hardening of the face that plainly bespoke his feelings. ‘* Yes,” she answered, ‘I am here.” * Where you belong!” “ W hy ?” ‘* You are among rascals and thieves.” She put out her shapely hands in appeal. ‘Oh, Steve! you are so cruel!” ‘* Because I know you so well. Where is: Bartley Frick?” The question seemed to take her breath for a moment, but she hastily recovered, ‘* How should I know?” **-You should know, if any one. You desert- ed me for that whelp.” ‘“‘ Which 1 shall never cease to regret,” “*T trust you speak the truth—for once,” **T do—I do!” “ But I doubt it.” “Why should you doubt me?” she panted, growing excited beneath his withering scorn, ‘* What right have you to speak like this to me? You did not doubt mein the old days; why should you now?” ‘* Why shouldn’t I? I bave every reason for doubting. What is the use of discussing this matter! I have tried to forget it all, but you continue to trouble me with your presence. If you would keep away—” “© T won't |” He drew a deep breath and sat down on one of the chairs, ‘Ob, very well,” he said, ‘ By the way, how is Frick doing at his new business?” “ Brick?” ‘© Your lover,” She winced. ‘I do not understand you.” “T am sure it is plain enough.”

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“Tt may be. You ask what he is doing in his mew business, To what business do you refer?” ‘* Stealing cattle.” : ‘© You are not nearly as sharp as you think, You believe—” ‘“*T merely supposed him one of the gang. ‘That explained your presence,” ‘You are wrong.” ec So?” ‘Yes, Bartley Frick is not one of Red Dan’s men.” ‘** Red Dan is to be congratulated.” She came close, standing before him. ** Steve,” she said, slowly, “ Frick threw me over.” He lifted his eyebrows, “ Really?” “Ttis true,” “* Well, the fellow did have some sense.” That sent ber back a step, her hands clinched convulsively, a sadden light of fury leaping into those blue eyes. Her red lips were parted and pulled back hard against tae white teeth, making her appear fora moment like an enraged cat. He smiled calmly at the picture she presented, as if he rather enjoyed it, Turning, she paced upand down the chamber, ‘trembling with suppressed emotion. At length, she came and stood before bim again. **' You do not seem at all like the Steve Nor- man I knew in the old days,” she declared. ‘ We grow sensible as we grow older.” * You have grown hard and heartless,” **In the old days, I was soft.” ** You had some feeling,” **T have still for any one or anything that de- servesit. If you are hurt by my manner, for heaven’s sake keep away from mae! That is all Task. Jam sure! do not crave your society. Why do you force it upon me?” ** Bacause [ love you!” * You cannot expect to win a man’s love in such a way. And you are mad to dream that I could ever care for you again. All the old re- gard is dead—forever dead. I told yon this once before, and I tell you agaim, I sincerely hope this will be enough.” She was silent for some time, but she spoke again, at length her voice faltering somewhat: “This destroys my last hops! When I heard the band had brought you in with them, my heart leaped. Now it lies like a stone in my bosom!” ‘Then you reached this place ahead of the band? You must bave made good time. The last I saw of you, you were in the Sunset Saloon at Blue Nose.” “*T Jost no time in getting here, after my ex- posure in the saloon.” ** Why were you there, playing such a part?” “TY went there, disguised, to look for you. You know my passion for gambling. I did not ‘find you, ana, to while away tbe time, I drifted ‘into the game, That is all.” ** Quite enough! And you have thought I could care for a creature of so many vices! Julia, you were foolish!” ** You cared for me once,” “T do not deny it—why should I? That goes for nothing. What do your friesds, the Rustlers, propose to do with me?” “Red Dan means to save you from being lynched,” she said, breathing heavily. ‘‘ You have scorned me for the last time, If you will not bave my love, then you shall take my knife! This time I will not fail!” Like a flash she grasped his throat with her left hand, the right being upraised and bolding a glittering blade, : Then she struck straight at bis beart! CHAPTER XV. ANOTHER BOND. Wits his bands tied bebind him, scarcely expecting such a mad attempt on his life, the young cowboy seemed doomed. No effort of bis own could have saved him, But Julia had left the chamber decor open and a third person entered. This person was close at hand when she struck at Silver Spur Steve's heart, ** Hold hard, my beauty!” The girls hand was caught just in time. Tron fingers closed on her wrist, and the blow ‘was arrested just as the point of the slender dag- ger touched the breast of the helpless Mascot, ‘*This is a dangerous toy for you to have,” ‘declared Red Dan, as he wrenched the knife from Julia’s fingers, ‘‘ Lucky I was on band,” | She gave a shrillseream of baffled fury and tried to get possession of the dagger once more. 12 Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. ‘*Let me have it! let me have it!” she panoted. ‘* What for, dear?’ coolly asked the outlaw. ** You might cut yourself,” ‘* When he lay dead at my feet, I meant to take my own life,” ‘*The more fool you!” said Red Dan, with sudden sternness, ‘I did fancy you bad some sense, but it seems I was mistaken. Do you suppose I would have let you come in here with him if I had known your little game? You lied to me; you said you loved him,” “*Tt was true!” ‘¢ Well, I let you coma for a purpose, Didn't I tell you your love was folly?” +» ‘*T could have told you more, but I wished to know if he loved you in return, In that case, I had a little revelation to make, I happened to be at band in time to discover be cares nothing for you. This being the case, it is not necessary to make the revelation,” Cowboy Steve arose from the chair. ‘*T suppose I have to thank you for saving my life,” he began. Only to be guickly interrupted by the Rustler chief: ‘* It evens us up, my boy; you saved me from tlae mob,” A sudden suspicion assailed the young cow- boy. ** And did you put up this little piece of busi- ness that you might seem to square the debt?” he quickly asked. Red Dan flushed, He was not an unhandsome map, and he actually looked hurt by Steve’s in- sinuation, “Do you actually think that of me?’ he asked. In a moment the younger man saw he was wen and he promptly acknowledged it. ** No, Ido sot think so,” be said, ‘I can seo I was mistaken. But, if was strange you should leave me here with my hands tied behind me, ** Tdid not leave you so—don’t accuse me of that. It was one of my men. I gave orders tbat you should be cut free. Here, let me get at your hands,” With the keen knife he had snatched from a grasp of the enraged girl, he set Steve re e, “Thanks; itis a great relief,” declared the cowboy, as be rubbed his wrists. The girl sunk down on a couch, where she sat, her face buried in her hands, now and then sbud- dering convulsively. Red Dan lvoked at her, and there was something like a pitying light in his eyes, although be spoke a trifle harshly: _ ais come, Jule! don’t make a blooming fool of yourself! There are plenty more. Even if there were not, you might console yourself, for I’ll tell you now it is impossible for you two to ever be more to each other than you are at this moment,” _ She lifted ber eyes and looked at him wonder- ingly, ‘What do you mean?” ‘* Just what I said; so let it drop at that,” But she sprung up, crying: ** You must explain!” A strange smile crossed his face, ‘* You seem to forget J am monarch bere,’ came quietly from his lips, ‘‘I am the cnly ee who can use the word must, Keep cool, ule! With a fierce gesture, she began pacing up and down the chamber. Red Dan watched her a moment, then turned to Steve. ‘Queer things, a woman’s nerves,” ho com- mented, . Tho cowhoy smiled, but asked: ‘*Why did you bring me bere? You knew I did not wish to come.” ' “TP IT remember ccrrectly, I told you once —to keep you from falling into the bands of the mob from Rainbow Ranch, They were in Blue Nose to look after you. That’s how I happened to be there, too, I knew they were it. Steve started, ‘* Then you have a spy at Rainbow?” “ Yes.” ‘* But you asked me to act as your spy, a few | days ago.” ‘* Because I wished to make a change, I fancied my man was suspected, and I meant to withdraw him before anything was proved against him. See?” — **T do. Who is he?” Red Dan laughed and skook bis head. _ “Oh, no; Pm not tellingeven you. You have odd ideas in your head, my boy, and you might coming, for my spy at the ranch warned me of | think it your duty to inform on bim, In fact, I believe you would.” “You are rigbt; I should certainly tell War- ren Milton, As it is, if I have the opportunity, I shall tell him there is a spy among bis men.” “That will do no barm, for my spy leaves to- night, I have considered it best to withdraw him. To-morrow, a man will be missing from Rainbow Ranch; that man is the spy.” ‘What do you mean to do with me?” ‘Oh, lL don’t know. Not much of anything.” ‘© Am I to be set free?” **'Yes, to-morrow,” ‘* That information is pleasant.” ‘¢ You are to be set free on condition,” ‘ “Ab! And what is the condition?” ‘‘ That you do not return to Rainbow Ranch.” * What, not at all?” ** Exactly.” ‘*Then Iam afraid I shall not obtain my lib- erty to-morrow.” **You will not give such a promise?” “* No, I will not!” ‘* Will you promise not to return there until the end of the ten days?” ‘“* What ten days?” ‘*Didn’t you agree to remain away that length of time?” “J did, but [ scarcely understand why it should make any difference to you whether I keep my promise or not.” ‘“*Have you forgotten I proved you are my son?” “No, I bave not forgotten.” ‘* It is only natural { should wish to preserve the life of my only son.” The girl, who had been walking up and down the chamber, turned like a flash at these words, ‘* What's that?” she cried, Red Dan looked disgusted. ‘* Hang my blundering tongue!” he muttered. Julia rushed upon bim, catching his arm. ‘* What do you mean?” she wildly demanded. “ Did I hear correctly? Did you call him your son?” s ‘* Now don’t get excited,” advised the chief. ‘You have bad tantrums enough for a while,” ‘* Tell me the trutb!” she almust screamed, ‘*Tf you expect to get anything out of me, you will have to be calm,” By a migbty effort, she regained control of her sorely-shaken nerves, ‘7 am calm,” she said. Red’ Dan hesitated. ‘“Tt ean do no good to tell you,” he said. ** But [ will know.” ‘¢ Well, then, this young man whom you have fancied you loved so madly is my son.” ** Impossible!” ‘Why so?” “Tf it is true, he—he is—” “Your half-brother, exactly!” Now it was Steve’s turn to be interested. ‘What is this you are saying?” he demand- ed, his face turning pale: ‘'Great Heaven! it cannot be true!” ‘Tt is true,” assured Red Dan, calmly. ‘* Julia is my daughter by my first wife, who died at her birth, Sbeis four years older than you. Your mother never knew I had been mar- ried before, for she never saw Julia,” Tbe girl stood like one stunned, her face pale as marble, a wild light in her blue eyes, Her lips moved, but no words were uttered, _ As for Steve, his strength seemed to leave him, and be suddenly sat down, ‘* What’s the use to take it like this?” half- laughed the chief of the Rustlers, ‘* You should ba delighted by the discovery.” _‘*T will not believe it!” the cowboy hoarsely declared, ‘‘ You must prove it is true!” ‘What proof do you ask? Have I not satis- fied you that you are my son?” You have not satisfied me she is ycur daugh- r. . Ts that the point? She bas known me as her father for many Jong years. I have supported her and treated ber as a father treats a favorite child, I bave kept ber at school, and—” ‘*Supported her!” exclaimed Steve, rising. ‘* Why, when I first met ber, she was working blackmailing schemes in New York!” “And I wasat work for the State in Sing Sing. That explains why T did not happen to be supporting her at that particular time. Thrown on ber own resources, she was forced to do something in order to live. Oh, I can bring youall the evidencs you desire. I will convince you beyond the shadow of a doubt she is my daughter, Why should you two look so down- east over it? Braee up and kiss each other as - brother and sister should, Ha! ha! ha!” He laughed alone; there were two who failed - to see where the joke came in. t | |

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~ N e CHAPTER XVI, TME MASCOT RETURNS, Tur tenth day had arrived, and Steve Nor- man had not yet returned to Rainbow Ranch, Not a few of the cowboys were outspoken in their belief that he would not come at all. Iva still remained his champion, and the men took good care not to express their opinion of him in her presence. For some reason, queer old Dr. Dirk still lingered at the ranch, The old fellow bad an unpleasant way of putting in an appearance when he was least expected, and it was known he had overbeard many of the unpleasant things said concerning himself, Some of the men even went so far as to say he was a sneak and a spy, as he had been detected wandering about the place at all bours of the day and night, Still, as long as the man remained Warren Milton's guest, none of the cowboys dared raise a band against him, Bud Rogers had been missing for three days, baving disappeared in a most unaccountable manner. All search for him had proved vain, and it was finally decided be had “* skipped ” for sore reason, In truth, Rogers was the spy of whom Red Dan bad told Steve Norman. The two-faced rascal belonged to the Rustlers, but be was mis- taken when he fancied his duplicity had been suspected. Not one of his companions dreamed he was other than he appeared, a bluff, honest herder, Yellow Jack was restless anduneasy. He had not seemed to enjoy a minute of peace since the night of the excitement in Blue Nose. He was he most open in expressions against Silver Spur teve. ‘¢ He will never return to be hanged,” sneered the Spaniard. ‘ He is nota fool.” Still, for some reason, a few of the cowboys looked for Steve to appear. Several of them happened to be off duty that dey t was near noon when an old, white-bearded man came slowly along the trail from Blue Nose. His clothes were rather ragged, and his general appearance was that of a veteran bummer, The cowboys who were off duty gathered in a knot and watched him curiously as he approached the ranch, speculating as to his destination. ** Hello, old pard,” hailed Jim Grant, ‘‘ Hey?’ exclaimed the veteran, halting sud- denly and surveying them, bis hand bebind his ear. ‘‘Git out o’ whose yard? I don’t see no fence.” The man laughed at this. “It’s evident he’s a bit hard of hearin’,” ob- served Big Ben, beckoning the old man to ap- roac : . The old fellow came forward suspiciously, fumbling beneath his ragged coat. Observing his faltering step, one of the men exclaimed: “‘ By Jim! it’s much as ever he stands up!” “Who said hands up?’ demanded the stranger, suddenly producing a huge revolver from beneath his coat. “T hain't loaded with wealth, but I don’t perpose to be robbed 0’ whut leetle I’ve got.” This caused the cowboys to laugh again. ‘‘ He is prepared for business,” chuckled one. ““You’re all right, old man,” “Out all night? Yep; hed ter sleepin ther grass, Ketched a cold in my head. Thet makes my hearin’a bit bad. I’ve been troubled some that way fer nigh ten year, Knockin’ round over the country don’t improve it none, but I’ll never give it up so long as I kin wag.” ‘* What’s your business, pard?” “cc He ? ‘“‘ What’s your business?” The old fellow straightened himself up with evident pride, ‘‘I’m ther oldest perfessional tramp in the United States,” he declared. ‘‘ Bim on the road fer sixty-one years,” ** How old are ye?” “ Kighty-three, 1’m aioranly lively on the foot yit. Hoofed it clean from Blue Nose sense yistiddy.” ‘** You must have got a jog on you.” * No they didn’t set the dogon me, Ef they hed, they’d been a dead dog, I allus go loaded fer dog out in these I don’t mind dogs so much, arter all. It’s all in gittin’ used to ’em, Tbey’ve chawed hunks outer var’us parts of my antimony, an’ I never hed a tetch 0’ hydrifoby up ter date. Ido s’pose thar's dogs hed a taste o’ mein nigh ev’ry State an’ Turrivory in ther Union.” ‘The cattlemen were growing interested in the ‘“* What's yer handle?” asked Big Ben, Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. is 4“ Bey ?? ‘* What's yer name?” ‘‘Game? Ob, I never play now. Uster take a hand at poker, faro, freeze-out, ’most any- thing.” ‘Yer pame—name, name!” ‘“‘Oa-bo! Thought you asked me whut was my game? I’m an old sport, ye see,” grinning and ducking his head, ‘‘My name’s Harris— Humpin’ Harris, sometimes called Old Hump, fer short.” ‘* Waal, Pard Harris, you’re a dandy!” ‘“ Handy? Handy at wot? Don’ttry ter ring in any splittin’ wood ur that kind o’ snap on me, I may be handy, but you can’t flatter me inter workin’, I swore off on workin’ sixty-one year ago, an’ I've bin a stranger ter it uvver sence.” *“*T s’pose the thought of* work rouses your "Old A ] la ump nearly co psed. * Bath!” Re gasped. ‘‘ Don’t ax me to take a bath! Last time it rained I got cauglt out an’ was sprinkled on afore I c’u’d git under kiver. I bain't bin reel well sence then, A reg’ler bath’d do fer me.” The cowboys were convulsed with laughter. ‘Waal, this yere old cock isfunny!” roared Jim Grant, ‘ Pard, you make us laff,” “Dunno w’ot ye’re doublin’ up an’ snortin’ at in that way!” rather angrily snap the old fellow. ‘ Worter’s all right in its place, an’ it’s place is in ther ocean.” ‘* Hyar comes ‘nother stranger!” suddenly ex- claimed one of the cowboys, All looked in the direction he indicated, and they saw a rather wretched-appearing mule ap- proaching the ranch, bearing a man on its back. As man and beast drew nearer, they perceived the former was nearly as wretched in appear- ance as the old tramp whom they had been chaffing, He was dressed in a th bare black suit, and his face was the picture of woe, “Looks like a parson iu distress,” observed one of the cattlemen. The second stranger saluted them gravely as he came up. “The Lord is blessing us with fine weather, brothers,” he said, speaking in a deep, sepulckral voice. ‘*We would have cause to be happy if there were not such an abundance of sin in the world.” = ‘* Is is a parson, sure as fate!” muttered Big nm, The old tramp was eying the black-clothed stranger closely, almost suspiciously, it seemed, ‘* Seems like I’ve seen him somewhere afore,” he was heard to murmur, beneath bis breath, ** Sin is raging, brothers, and Satan is happy,” added the second stranger, as he slowly dis- mounted from the weary-a ring mule, ‘* lam battling against Satan, and I must confess he is giving me about alll want todo. The fleld is broad and the laborers are few. The barvest of tares is sure to be far in abundance over that of wheat. Is it not a sorrowful thing to contem- plate,” ‘*He’s cracked,” whispered one to another, and the word was paseed around. ‘* Whut’s he talkin’ about?” asked Old Hump, curiously. ‘‘I don’t see ter ketch all he says,” ‘*This poor old brother’s hearing must be affected,” observed the parson. ‘It’s plain he cannot hear well,” ‘*Whut’s that "bout bein’ near hell?’ asked the professional tramp, pushing forward and confronting the sorrowful-looking man, “I don’t even ‘low a minister to tell me that, b’gar! You'd best take it back,” Old Hump looked as if he really intended to fight, and the other seemed alarmed, 5h! I mean no offense,” he protested, ‘“‘Throw me over the fence?” almost shouted Hump. ‘ You never saw the day you c’u’d do it! Iknow I’m purty old, but I’ve got a leetle ginger left, Ef you think you kin throw me, jest sail right in!” : “Oh, I assure you, brother, I said nothing of the sort. I do not wish trouble, I am peaceable man—a servant of the Lord!” “Wal, don’t git so skeered. I thought you was sassin’ me, [ hain’t goin’ ter jump on ye ef you don’t scrap. At ther same time, if ever you feel like havin’ around, jest stomp on me coat-tail, I uster be known as ther tramp Pret. I’m a slugger from early days, an’ ve got a record long as your arm.” All this seemed very laughable to the cowboys, and they enjoyed it Geartily: some being inclined plier gel a Pict men on ge ag — worked ) D in i mn, however oh ected to this, & point, 4 ’ ’ ellow Jack had kept in the background, my- nothing. He now came forward, growling: Well, senors, are you satisfied Steve Nor- man will not return? Two have come, but still he is not here,” ‘**Oh, waal, thar’s some time afore sunset,” said one of the cattlemen. , ; ‘‘ Still he will not come,” sneered Jack, ‘He isa cowardly dog and dares not come here,” Barely had the words passed his lips when the old tramp wheeled on him Jikeacat, Out shot. the old fellow’s fist, striking the Spaniard fairly on tne point of the jaw, and Yellow Jack meas~ ured bis length on the grass, “You're a liar!” cried a ringin.- voice. ‘*‘ Steve Norman is here!” The tramp snatched away the false wig and beard he wore, and Silver Spur Steve stood be- fore them! CHAPER XVII. ANOTHER REVELATION, Tue Ranch Mascot had returned! For a woment, every spectator of the sudders unmasking stood silent and speechless, and then _ great yell broke from the throats of the cow- 8. ‘It’s Steve! Yi! yi! yil” In one moment, it seemed, the feelings of the men had undergone a change. They had not ex- cted he would appear, but, now he was ‘here, hey realized they had wronged bim hy imagining, he would remain away. Stunned and da to momentary blindness by that terrific blow, Yellow Jack slowly lifted himself to his elbow, brushing a hand across his pe fe as if to clear the mist that obstructed bis. vision. Then the Spaniard saw Steve and realized what had happened. A snarl of fury broke fromy his lips and be wrenched out a revolver, murder gleaming in his eyes. ‘** Look out!” But there was no need to warn the young cow- boy; be was on the alert. u p came Yellow Jack’s hand, Leaping forward, Cowboy Steve gave a kick that sent the revolver spinning from the fingers of the unlucky rascal. “Go slow, man!” he commanded sternly, standing above the baffled Spaniard, bis hand on the butt of a revolver. ‘‘ I don’t want to pull a gun on you, but, if I have to do so, I shall use: t! Yellow Jack ground bis teeth, but made no move to produce a woman. ey shall pay dearly for that blow!” he gra . “T am ready to settle,” answered Steve, Jack slowly arose to his feet. “Thig is the man who killed Dick Clark!” he cried, “ Again I am compelled to inform you you are a liar,” flashed the Mascot, ‘‘I know some- body bas made the charge against me, and I am here to meet it.” ‘‘ Bravo!” cried the cowboys, delightedly. “Yes, you are here,” sneered Yellow Jack, bs vee didn’t you come before?” ‘ ‘* That is none of your business!” ‘* As long as ye’re here now, it’s all right, pard,” assured Big Ben, stepping forward. ‘I 8’pose you've come ter give yerself up?” “Yes, Ben, just that,” “Thet’s ther stuff! We'll give ye a squar? show.” *¢-You bet! you bet!” echoed the cowboys. ‘That is all I ask,” gravely declared Steve, as he produced his revolvers and held them toward the foreman, ‘‘ Take them, old man; I sur-. render.” Ben hesitated, and then he took the revolvers,, saying: i Ail right, Steve, boy; Tlltake’em. I hain’t; goin’ ter inconvene Bhat too mighty much, so, if you'll give yer word not ter try ter git erway,,. that’s all’s needed,” **O, K,, Ben! You'll find me where you can: put your band on me when you want me,” ae that will be dead and stiff!” snarled a voice, Then Yellow Jack darted toward the now un- armed cowboy, a knife in his fingers, The mur- derous-minded Spaniard struck straight at the- Mascot’s back. It happened that the queer old wandering par-- son was the one to save Steve this time. ‘* Thou shalt not kill!” quoted the old fellow, as he caught Jack about the waist, tripped him. and cast him headlong to the ground, A scream of pain broke from the Spaniard’s: lips and he quickly rolled over upon back, n it wasseen that in falling he had struck ‘“Whar's that medicine the ery upon his own knife, i mortage. Bho ble wound,. ip?” was that went up.

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Dr. Dirk seemed listening for the call, as he promptly appeared, ** Right on band!” he nodded. ‘I have a way of being around when wanted—at least, I fancy I have sucha way, What is it? Hello! Cut! Well, well! Let me examine,” He at once proceeded to examine Jack’s in- jury ina manner that indicated he was fully what he claimed to be, a physician and surgeon, ‘* Pretty bad!” he commented. ‘I can stop the flow of blood from the exterior, but—abem —that may be all that’s requiton. Young man,” and he gazed keenly into Jack’s face while his fingers prepared a bandage, ‘‘if you have any- thing weighing ou your mind, I advise you to get rid of it, Delays are dangerous, and—well, we don’t know what may happen,” To the surprise of all, Yellow Jack replied to this with a volley of language so violent and vile that it even shocked some of the hardened cattle- men. ‘* You can’t work me in sucha way, old fool!” he snarled. ‘I have nothing to tell!” Dick nodded coolly, finished binding up the wound, and then gave instructions that Jack be taken into the ranch. As they carried the wounded man in, the doctor whispered: ** Straight to the room where Dick Clark died —take him there.” They did as directed, despite the protests of the wounded wretch, who objected violently when he discovered whither they were carry- ing. him, he queer old parson, who said his name was Podder, followed the men into the house and made himself quite at home after he got there. In the excitement, no great amount of attention was bestowed upon him. Dr, Dirk warmly shook Steve Norman’s hand, **T knew you would come!” he cried; ‘‘ that is, 1 thought I knew it—no, by Jove! I did know! There was no uncertainty at all about it, in this cas».” Iva Milton hastened to Silver Spur, as soon as she learned he had appeared. Clinging to his hand, she said: ‘*T am so glad to see you once more, Steve! I told them all the time you would come back and prove your innocence, They did not be- lieve me, but [ knew you too well to doubt.” ‘* God bless you, little one!” he murmured, somewhat huskily. ‘*‘What have I ever done to deserve your confidence?” **T read your manhood in your eyes,” “ And you have never thought it possible I[ was guilty and would not return?” ‘Never for one moment. Listen: a friend has been at work for you during these ten days, and he has not wasted his time, They will never prove you killed Dick Clark,” Warren Milton greeted the young man pleas- one **Tt really seems good to get back to the old place!” laughed Steve, “T don’t think you bad better goaway again,” said Milton, ‘ Rainbow Ranch cannot get along without its Mascot,” Within two hours after Steve’s appearance a cowboy from a neighboring ranch came dashing up to Rainbow and called for Milton, The rancher saw the cattleman in his private office, and a secret consultation followed. Then the cowboy departed, riding like the wind to the east, | “Wonder. w’at’s in ther wind,” muttered Big Ben. ‘ Tbar’s somethin’ up.” The foreman was right. Within twenty min- utes he was called into Milton’s private office. ** Ben,” said the rancher, seriously, ‘‘ there’s trouble coming. Red Dan is about to make us a visit,” Big Ben started. When?” ° “To-night. I have received word from Banton that such is the case. Now we are to be prepared for him, but the most of the boys rhust not know heis coming. Why? Because I fear there is a spy in our midst,” “A spy?’ ‘*Yes. Keep your eyes on this Parson Podder, but be shrewd enough not to Jet him sus- pect be is being watched. Do you understand?” ** You bet.” From that time on, the edd parson was under a SR although he was not aware of the ac Within the room where Dick Clark was. murdered Yellow Jack tossed and turned on the - He could not remain quiet, although they told him he might bring about his own death by his twistings. His face ex the greatest agony, and it seemed there was a look of horror deep in bis eyes. Dr, Dirk brought a basin of water to the’ Se Ea x ' 7 - - m - : ws v8 baila at aad no os aie 14 Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. room, Tothe water he had added a few drops of some strange liquid, and he insisted on bath- ing Jack’s face, The wounded man was weak from his efforts and from his injury, and he could only protest feebly. The old doctor bathed his face and the yellow color came away, leaving a white un- wrinkled skin beneath. The doctor also care- fully removed the false mustache which the supposed Spaniard wore, and the change was something startling. “Quite a neat little make-up,” nodded the sbrewd old doctor; ‘* but I tumbled to it some time ago. There was not quite enough Span- iard to you. I fancied your complexion would not wash well,” ‘* Curse you!” grasped the wounded wretch. ‘*T have felt all along that you were working my ruin!” ‘Took here, my man,” came coldly from Dirk’s: lips, ‘‘I do not believe you have much longer to live. You had better make a clean breast of it.” Again was the villain seized by a fit of fury. He sat upin bed, fairly screaming forth his anger, as he shook his fist at the doctor, This only lasted a few moments, then he fell back limpy, his eyes closed and he looked like a corpse. **T guess that will fix him,” muttered the doctor, as he proceeded to apply restoratives. The wounded man opened his eyes in a few moments and gazed wildly around. There was an insane glare in his dilated orbs. *¢ Tt’s Clark’s room!” he gurgled, trying to get out of bed, but failing from sheer lack of strength. ‘' This is his bed! Ah! God! I can’t stay here! Take me away! take me away!” ‘*Send Steve Norman and two or three others here,” commanded the doctor, speaking to a cowboy who thrust his head in at the door just then, ‘* Tell them to be lively about it!” .The cowboy disappeared. ‘* Steve Norman!” panted the man on the bed, * Don’t have bim come here! I—I can’t see him! I have hated him, and now—now he’s coming to see me die!” ‘*Make a clean breast of it,” again advised the doctor, Cowboy Steve soon appeared. The wounded man was lying panting and gasping or the bed, but he started when the Mascot entered. Steve also started, giving acry of astonishment, ** Bartley Frick !” ‘* Yes, 1 am Bartley Frick,” confessed the dying wretch, ‘‘I am the one who induced Julia to leave you todie, Why didn’t you die? You had no right to live! Now ’m dying— dying in this bed! Take me out of it—take me out! ‘*You have only a few moments more,” sol- emnly warned Dr, Dirk, Once more the wild glare entered the eyes of the sinking man, He started up, gazing at the bedclothes, “Why didn’t they wash off the blood?” he screamed, his disordered fancy picturing red stains all over the clothes, ‘‘It’s his biood— Clark’s! He died here! Ha! Thereheis! See how he glares at me! [ killed him! J killed him! I dipped his finger in the blood and made him write the word ‘Steve!’ Don’t touch me, Dick—don’t touch me with your red hands! Take him away! He is laughing atme! Ah! His hands are on my throat! He’s choking me —choking-— chok—” He fell back once more, The end had come; but brave Steve Norman was freed from the least shadow of guilt. CHAPTER XVIII. THE LAST REVELATION, : 4 aim was a great hush iu the chamber of eath, At this moment a sudden commotion, cries, and the sound of a pistol-shot came up from the open air. Theo Bg Ben’s voice was heard to cry: ‘*f plunked the critter dead-center that time!” From the chamber the cowboys burried down the stairs, Steve with them, When they reached tke open air, they found the big foreman bend- ing over a prostrate form, that of the wandering parson, while others were gathered around, ‘*What’s this?’ demanded Warren Milton, issuing from the house, ‘* The critter tried to git away arter I yanked off bis false whiskers,” explained Ben, ‘an’ I socked it to him fer keeps, Reckon I’ve cooked his goose, though I didn’t really mean ter do that bad, I wuz jest goin’ ter bring bim up with & round turn,” “You brought me up witha round bullet,” said a faint voice, and the parson lifted his head. “Red Dan!” chorused the crowd. ‘« Here,” retorted the Rustler. ‘I reckon it’s the last roll-call for me.” ‘My father!” cried Steve, stepping forward. Something like a grim smile crossed the face of the prostrate man, ‘‘ My boy.” he said, ‘* I used to have the repu- tation of being the slickest liar in seventeen States, I haven’t recovered from lying yet. I wished to work youa trifle,and sol took a fancy to play that gagon you. Jam no more your father than the man in the moon,” ‘Ror which I am duly thankful.” ‘‘ Without a doubt, Look here; I’ve got a bullet through me right where it’s going to wind up my worstei. What’s the use of playing c ooked longer? Your father’s name is Fenton Blair.” “T thought that was your name?” : ‘*T claimed it. Instead of that, Fenton Blair was the man whose wife I made believe he was false to her—your own mother. She fled from him. He followed me and tried to wipe me out, but I was too soon for him, aud he died in the hospital from the effects of the woundI gave him.” ‘* You are mistaken, John Jayne,” said a calm voice, and Dr, Dirk stepped forward. ‘‘ Fenton Blair did not die, and he has been tracing you all these long years, you heartless villain, He has found you at last!” Ra taes It was the doctor’s turn to remove a disguise, thé spectacles and a beard. ~ ‘*May I be hanged!” cried the Rustler chief. “You may, if you live long enough,” grimly replied Fenton Blair. ‘‘ Allow me to see if that wound can’t be plugged so you can enjoy the privilege of swinging. It would give me great satisfaction to see you hang.” ‘¢T haven’t a doubt of it,” confessed Red Dan serenely, as he permirted the man_ he had wronged to examine tue wound, ‘I suppose I might feel that way myself, were I in your lace. ‘‘ Well, there is very little chance for you,” “asserted Blair, when he had thoroughly ex- amined the injury of the other, “I’ll domy best for you, though.” He dressed the wound temporarily, and then the chief of the famous outlaws was lifted and carried into the house. He seemed to take things with remarkable coolness, even though he knew there was no chance for him to recover, ‘‘T’va got to go,” he said, ‘and I don’t think I'll m k») any fuss over it.” When they had made him as comfortable as possible, he said: ‘¢T discovered you had dropped to my plan of making a raid to-night, and tbat was why I at- tempted to get away. I wanted to warn the boys that the raid was no go, I knew I was watched, but I fancied I would be able to make a go of it. Instead, I slipped up.” He then made a full and free confession, clear- ing oh A all doubts in Steve’s mind, and con- vincing him the man he had known as “Dr, Dirk” was his true father. ‘¢ This seems to straighten things out wonder- fully,” said Warren Milton, satisfaction ex- pressed on his face, ‘* Everything is terminat- ing most agreeably.” Little Iva was the most rejoiced. ‘*Ob, Steve! Steve!” she laughed; ‘isn’t it fortunate for you? There’s not a man about the place now who does not look on you as a hero! Ob, I just knew how it would be! And to think that dear, funny old doctor should prove to be your father! He worked bard to save you from the charge against you, and be was Satisfied Yellow Jack did the terrible work.” Steve’s voice trembled a little as he thanked her again for her unswerving faith in him, ‘Now you will stay here and bring good-luck to Rainbow Ranch, won’t you?” she cried, He shook bis head. ‘¢ Tt is impossible,” he answered, } sae Her face was instantly shadowed, ‘Why, Steve!” she pleaded; ‘‘I supposed you would surely stay! Do you mean to go away and leave—and leave—us?” ‘*T must,” was his husky assertion. i ‘Well, I won’t have it! If you go, I'll just die of lonesomeness!” “But I cannot stay. I would were it possi- ble, but I should surely forget my position and door say something rash, am still nothing but a pkgs Pe ‘That’s all fudge! What’s the matter with you? Nobody but ada thinks such foolish thin ! Say, Steve!” coyly. va, ' a a gr ni nn gg pt gy na an sp mitt ety ow arene

Page 15

* Don’t you like me well enough to stay where Zam?” “That’s the trouble,” he answered, with sud- den determination; ‘I like you too well,” “Tnats funny! I don’t understand it, If you like me so much, you ought to stay all the more,” “Iva, I love you! That is whyI am going away. Your father stands between us.” She clasped his hand with both her own. ‘*Steve!” she whispered, her lips uplifted to his. “What, Iva?” ‘© Do you love ms real hard?” ‘*- You are dearer to me than all the world!” ‘* Then kiss me once for luck!” He could not resist the impulse, and he sudden- ly caught her in his arms, covering her lips with kisses. In a moment she released herself, look- ing around, “T's all right, Steve!” she said, ‘‘ He's gone.” oc Who” ‘‘Father. He was watching us.” ** When? “Just now. He saw you kiss me, and be never made any fuss about it. Instead of that, he dusted, I reckon you’ll stay now.” He stayed, Rants i Red Dan, whose true name was John Jayne, died as he bad lived, cool to the last, The Rustlers did not make a raid on Rainbow Ranch that night, and they were soon broken up and disorganized, the death of their leader be- ing too much for them to withstand, Julie Ruthven, or Jayne, disappeared and Was never again seen in those parts. Fenton Blair resumed his old profession in a rosperous Western city, while Cowboy Steve, Raymond Blair, married Iva and remained on Rainbow Ranch. He is still known as ‘‘ TheMascot,” and there are three little ‘‘ mascots” running about the ranch now. THE END. Beaile's Half-Dime Library. BY WM. G. PATTEN,. 489 The Diamond Sport; or, The Double Face of Bed Rock, 419 Captain s1ystery ; or, Five in One. 681 Daisy ware the Sport from Denver. 5ST Old Bombshell, the Ranger Detective. 604 Iron Fern, the Mun of Fire. 619 The Boy Tramp Detective; or, The Doubie Grip Witness 629 Violet Vane, the Velvet Spon. ; 641 Dismai Dave's Dandy Pard. 651 Bound Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective 66% Violet Vanes Victory. 682 Wild Vulcan, the Lone-Range Rider. 6958 Violet and Daisy, the Posy Pards. 705 Violet Vane’s Vow: or, The Crafty Detective’s Craft. 4 Old Misery, the Man from Missourl, 4 Violet Vane’s Vengeance. 0 Violet Vane’s Verdlet, 1 Violet Vane, the Ventriloquist Vidoeq. 50 Violet Vane, the Vanquished. 68 Vioict Vane’s Vision. 74 Clear-Grit Cal, the Never Say-Die Detective, oleledeReeded BY J. W. OSBON. 469 The Rival Glants of Nowhar’. 498 Cactus Burr, the Man trom Hard Luck. 687 Old Buckeye, the Sierra Shadow. 564 Powder Phil, thé Boy Miner. 609 Bolly Dorrit, the \eteran Detective. 620 Little Lightning's League; or, The Mystery of tne Island 688 Plueky Paul, the Boy Prospector. 751 Gold-Dust Dan, the Trail Patrol. 755 Gold Dust Dan’s Oath; or, Reckless Roy, the Regulator. BY VIHILIP 8S. WARNE, 6T Patent-Lenther Joe; or, Old Rattlesnake, the Charmer. 175 Uaprtam Arizona; or, Petent-Leather Joe's Big Game, 198 Captain Mask; or, Patent-Leather Joe’s Defeat. 219 Desxpard, the Duelist ;'cr, The Mountain Vompires. 888 A Tough Boy; or, The Dwart’s Revenge, B68 Little Tornado; or, The Outcasts of the Glen, BST Little Jingo; or, the Queer Pard. . BSS Little Oh-my 3 or, Caught in His Own Trap, 401 Little Shoo Fly : or, A Race for a Ranch, 408 Little Leasher- Breeches 3 or, Old Jumbo’s Cura 481 Little Ah Sing or, The Curse of Blood, 451 Colorado Kate. A Tale of the olines. 480 Three Jolly Parda, 517 Jim Gladden’. Deputy. 527 The Jolly Pards to the Rescue. 547 Sandy Andy; or, A Good Man Down, 556 Lariat Lil; or, The Gast for a Life. 574 Old Weasel-top, the Man with the Dogs. &93 Keen Clem, the Ranch Imp. 599 Jim Dandy the No-Name Sport. 618 Billy, Blazes; or, The Skeleton’s Legacy. yrs + Asie m1 so. Blne-Coat Scout. € appy HMarry’s Big Find. 664 Cheeky Charley the Special. BY COL. A. F. HOLT. 899 Black Buckskin; or, The Masked Men of Death Canyon. 419 Kenneth, the Knife-King, F 7 485 Little Lightfoot, the Pilot of the Woods. B28 The Dandy Sport; or, The King Pin Conspirator. 678 Headlight H. Detective. arry’s Hazard; or, The Lightning Express Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. RE a TE NE a RT EE A IE 2 RE RR A a BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS. 646 Captain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock. 568 The Dandy of Dodge. 576 The Silver Sport. Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow 589 Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Dead Set at Silver City. Happy Hans the Dutch Vidoeg. Bildad Barnacle, the Detective Heverlee Texas Tom-Cat’s Triad Tom Cat’s Terrible Task. 688 Tom-Cat’s Triuniph; or, Black Dan’s Great Combine, 646 Cowboy Gid, the Cattle-Range etective. 65? Warbling William, the Mountain Mountebank, 665 Jolly Jcremiahs the Plains Detective. 676 Signal Sams the Lookout Scout. Rilly, the Gypsy Spy. 699 Siraple Sim, the Broncho Buster. 712 The Mesmeriat Sport; or, The Mystified Detective, 7838 Toltec Tom, the Mad Prospector, 5 Kansas Jim, the Cross-Cut Detective. 61 Marmaduke, the Mustanger Detective. 78 The Ruatler of Rolling Stone. 85 Lone Hand Jee, the Committee of One. BY CHARLES MORKIS. 118 WHIlLl Somers, the Boy Detective, 122 Phil Mardy, the Boss Boy. 126 Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. 180 Detective Dick ; or, The Hero tn Rags. 142 Handsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, 147 Will Wildfire, the Thoroughbred. 152 Black HKeas, Will Wildfire’s Racer. 157 Mike Merry the Harbor Police Boy. 162 WHl Wildiire in the Wooda. 165 Billy Baggage, the Railroad Boy. 170 A Trump Card; or, Will Wildfire Wins and Leses 174 Bob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York, 179 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner, 188 The Hidden Hand; or, Wil! Wildfire’s Revenge. 187 Fred Walyard, the Life Boat Boy; or, The Smugglers, 189 Bob Rockett; or, Driven to the Wali. 196 Shadowed ; or, Bob Kockett’s Fight for Life. 206 Dark Paul, the Tiger King. » 212 Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective, 220 Tom Tanner}; or, The Black Sheep of the Flock. 25 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky. 235 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy. 242 The Two * Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang. 252 Dick Dashaway : or, A Dakota Boy in Chicago, 262 The Young Sharps: or, Rollicking Mike’s Hot Trail. 274 Jolly dim, the Detective Apprentice. 289 Jolly Jim’s Job; or, The Young Detective. 298 The Water-ILound; or, The Young Thoroughbred. 805 Pashaway, of Dakota; or, A Western Lad in Quaker City, 824 Ralph Ready, the Hotel Boy Detective. $41 Tony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective. 858 The Reporter-Detectives or, Fred Flyer’s Blizzard, 867 Wide-Awake Joe; or, A Boy of the Times. 879 Larry, the Leveler; or, The Bloods of the Boulevard. 408 Fireily Jack, the River-Rat Detective. 428 The Lost Finger; or, The Entrapped Cashier, 428 Fred Flyer, the Reporter Detective. 482 Invincible Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret, 456 Billy Brick, the Jolly Vagapond. 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive. 79 Detective Dodge: or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty. 488 Wild Dick Racket. 501 Boots, the Boy Fireman: or, Too Sharp for the Sharper, b86 The Secret Service Boy Detective. 596 Jimmy the Kid; or, A Lamb Among Wolves. 627 Tom Bruce of Arkansas; or, The Wolfin the Fold. 655 Plucky Paul, the Boy Speculator. 667 Bob and Sam, the Daisy Detectives. 709 The Curbstone Detective; or, Harry Hale’s Big Beat. 757 Detective Frank’s Sweep-stakes, RY JOSEPH E. BADGER, JR. 2 Yellowstone Juck 3 or, The Trapper, 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaw’s Retreat, 65 Hurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard. 119 Mustang Sam 3 or, The King of the Plains. 186 Night-llawk Kit; or, The Daughter of the Ranch, 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. 151 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Reseus. 160 The Black Giant; or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy, 168 Deadly Dash; or, Fighting Fire with Fire, 181 The Roy Trallers; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path. 203 The Boy Pards; or, Dainty Lance Unmasks. 211 Crooked Cale, the Caliban of Celestial City, 810 The Barranca Wolf; or, The Beautiful Decoy. 819 The Black Rider; or, The Horse-Thieves’ League. 885 Old Double Fiat; or, The Strange Guide B55 The King of the Woods: or Daniel Boone’s Laat Trail. 419 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective 625 Chincapin Dan, the Roy Trafler. 677 Chineapin Pan's Sccond Traltl, 688 Chineapin Dan's Home Stretch, 698 Old Crazy, the Man Without a Head. TOR Light-Heart Lute’« Legacy. 718 Licht-Meart Lute’s Last Trall. 28 Silverblade, the Shoshone. 729 Silverblade, the Half-Blood; or, The Border Beagle at Bay. 789 Silverblade, the Hostile. 748 Silverblade the Friendly; or, The Border Beagle’s Boy Pard BY J0 PIERCE, 897 Rob o’ the Bowery ; or, The Prince of Mulberry Street, 415 The Vagabond Detective; or, Bowery Boh’s Boom, 452 Motapur Bob, the Street-Boy Detective, 460 The Lawyer’s Shadow; or Luke’s Legacy, 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horae-King. 494 Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective, 504 Five Points Phil 509 Jack Jagwera, the Butcher Boy Detective, 516 Tartar Tim; or, Five Points Phil’s Menagerie, 526 North River Nat, the Pier Detective. 5838 Wreatling Rex, the Pride ofthe Sixth Ward, 541 Jeff Flicker. the Stable Boy Detective, 551 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow. Pia pence Jacks eh tag Detective, hid rooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook De ‘ 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, — 588 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. ROR Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer. 614 Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s Aid, 628 Buck Bumblebee; the Harlem Hummer. ryt Paneine Bawls the aie Rabon Ferret. 549 Gamin Bob, the Bowery Badger: or, Scoopim: 658 Sky-Rocket Rob, the Lite-Saver, pve: mi Bliggary Bah 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator 694 Bpliey Jim, the Only One of His Kind, 706 Tom Thistle, the Road-House Detective, Z17 Mosquito Jack, the Hustler Gamin, 726 Dennisx Duff the Brown Sport’s Kid, 744 Dick of the Docka, the Night-W atch, cee puppes oh ig ae Patrol. oa BY CAPT. MARK WILTON, 7 ? pte BY ALBERT W,. AIKEN, 11 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes of a Bowery Girl, 76 Abe Colt, the Grow-Killer. 7% Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 268 Joe Buck of Angels and Mis Boy Parad, 447 New York Nat. A Tule of Tricks and Traps in Gotham, 458 New England Nicky or, The Fortunes of a Foundling. 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince. 498 Taos Ted, toe Arizona Sport. 510 Cool Colorado, the Hall-Breed Detective. 518 Cool Colorado in New York. BY EPWARD WILLETT. 167 Asa Scott, the Steambont Boy, 199 Featherweight the Boy Champion of the Muskingum. 228 Ozark Alf’; or, Featherweight Among the Outlaws, 2S2 The Typo Detective ; or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp, 295 Fearless Phil; or, The King of Quartzville. 811 The Roving Sport; or, The Pride of Chuckaluck Camp. $22 Nero, the Detective; or, Kit Keuyon's Vendetta. 840 Clip the Contortioniat; or, The Montana Vigilantes, BY CAPTAIN FRED, WHITTAKER, 15 The Sea-Uat; or, The Witch of Danen. 29 The Dumb Page} or, The Doge’s Deughter. 48 Dick Darling, the Pony Express Rider, 10 Lance and Lasso: or, The Children of the Chaco. 154 The Sword Munters; or, The Land of the Elephant Riders, 159 The Lost Captainy or, Skipper Jabez Coffin’s Cruise, 800 The Boy Bedouins; or, The Brothers of the Plumed Lance 214 Wolfgang, the Robber of the Rhine. 249 Milo Romer the Animal King; or, Round the World, 265 The Tiger Tamer; or, The League of the Jungle. 881 Black Nick, the Demon Rider. 895 California Joe’s War Trall. BY EPWARD 8. ELLIS. 6 Bill Biddon, Trapper. 8 Seth Jones; or, The Captives of the Frontier, 3410 Nat Todd; or, The Fate of the Sioux Captive. 2:1 xne Frontier Angel. 98 The Boy Miners; or, The Enchanted Island, 152 The Munted Hunter; or, The Strange Horseman, 254 The Half-Blood; or, The Panther of the Plains. 271 The Nuge Munter; or, The Steam Prairie Man, BY MAJOR E, L. 8T. VRAIN, 292 Sancho Pedro, the Boy Banilit 801 Leadville Nick, the Boy Sport. 812 Redtop Rube, the Vigilante Prince. 838 Brimstone Bob, and His Lightning Horse Quartew 852 Tombstone Tom, the Arizona Boy of Sand,” BY Durance Shave, the Young ‘onnison Wreatler. 871 Kingbolt Chris, the Young Hard-Shell Detective. 880 Avalanche AM. the Foothills Guide. 890 Jaguar Joe, of the Mountsin Mail-Line, BY OLL COOMES. 5 Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. 18 ‘The Dumb Spy. 27 Antelope Abe, the Boy Guide. 81 Keen-Kulfe, the Prince of the Prairies, 41 Lasso Juck, the Young Mustanger. 58 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe, 71 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranver Spy. 74 Hawk-eye Marry the Young Trapper Ranger. 88 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. 184 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman, 148 Sear-Face Saul, the Silent Hunter 146 Silver Star, the Hoy Knight. 158 Eagle Kit, the Koy Demon. 163 Little Texas, the Young Mustanger 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. 182 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain, ; 202 Prospect Pete : or, The Young Outlaw Hunters. 208 The Boy Hercules: or, The Prairie Tramps. 218 ‘Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dick: or, Trapper Tom’s Caatle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Disgruised Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger, 2T2 Minkakin Mikey the Boy Sharpshooter. 290 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spy. 800 The Sky Demon; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger, 884 Whip-King Joe, the Boy Ranchero. AOD Hercules; vr, Dick, the Boy Ranger, AIT Webfoot Mose, the Tramp Detective. 422 Baby Sam, the Boy Giant of the Yellowstone, A44 Little Buckskin, the Young Prairie Centaur, 457 Wingedfoot Fred or, Old Polar Saul, 468 Tamarne Vom, the Big Trapper Boy. ATS Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic. 482 Stonewull Bob, the Boy Tron. 562 Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper, 652 Don Barr, the Plains Freelance, 661 Old Kit Bandy’s Deliverance, 670 Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. 680 Dauntless Dan the Freelance, or Old Kit Bandy tn Arcadfa, @7S8 Highland Harry, the Wizard Rifleman. RY BUCKSKIN 8AM (Major Sam. 8, Mall) 284 Old Rocky a ‘* Boveer?: or, Benito, the Horse-Breaker. 246 Glant George: or, The Ang’! of the Range. 275 Arizona Jack ¢ or. Giant George’s Pard, 297 The Tarantula of Taos; or, Glant George's Revenge, 807 The Strange Parad: or, Little Ben’s Death Hunt. 818 Ker-whoop, Ker-whoo: or, The Tarantula of Taos. B27 Creeping Cat, the Caddo; or, The Red and White Pards, 882 Frio Fred: or, The Tonkaway’s Troat. 844 The Fighting Trio: or, Rattlesnake, the Tonkaway. 849 Wild Wolf; or, Big-Foot Wallace to the Front, 857 The Ranch Ralders; or, The Siege of Fort Pargatory. 864 Rnap-Shot, the Boy Kanger, 875 Chiota, the Creek; or, The Three Thunderbolts. 881 Bandera Bills or. ¥rio Frank to the Front. B92 Romeo and the Reda; or, The Beleaguered Ranch, 404 Little Larint: or, Pecan Pete’s Big Rampage. 414 The Datay from Penver, 427 The Three Tratiers; or, Old Rocky on the Rampage. 442 Bluff Bill; or, The Lynx of the Leona. 455 Little Lone Star: or, The Belle of the Cibolo. 684 Cache Carl, the Chico Giant BY MAJOR HENRY B. STODDARD, Ex-Scout, 806 Neck-Tie Ned; or, The Dug-Out Pards. 846 Rapler Raphael: or, The Swordsmen of Zacatecas, BOR R1acGlove Bie ead te, The Gold Kt -Glove Kit a ard; or eGo ng. 406 The Mad ‘Man.Wunter: or, The Golden Gulch Mystery 505 Powell’s Pard; or, The One-Armed Giant. A New Issue Every Tuesday: The Half-Dime Library is tor snie oy all Newadealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mall on receipt of six centa eacd. 691 Headlight Harry’s Haul, 256 Young Kentuck: or, The Red Lasso, ml 727 Headlight Harry’s Siren. 270 Blizzard Beng or, The Riot at Keno Camp. ig BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, WS iy 759 Headlight Harry's Herliage. © 256 Josh, the Boy Tenderfoot. 98 William Street, New York. a BS Sas ; . ' : Be. ie s : ' ae “ > : ' ng R . i a " @ SL a ie : ¥ Vee * ‘ a Jxe/ ae 4 :

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- BEADLE’S*HALF-DIME*LIBRARY. Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. No Double Numbers. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, Deadwood Dick Novels, 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. + pesdwacd ri" co piswaiaes, Buffal. Ben. 5 Deadwoor ck in = Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; o-, The «antom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omana Oll. 57 Dendwood Dick’s Engles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. %8 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity ¢ ne, the Heroine as Seg bpinbe Dick's — rei or, Corduroy Charlie. eadwoo ck in Leadville, ace pesawees —* ape a as ‘The Double Cross Sign. endwooc ck as Detective. 129 Deudwoed Dick’s Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. 188 Deadwood Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Bill. 149 Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party. 195 Dendwoed Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road. 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel, aor per tae a erry a prety Jane’s Adventure. 7 Deadwo ck’s Dea eal. : 221 Dendwood Dick’s Death-Plant. 282 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughs, FA pontweed yh pivise ni Sed Spirit of Swamp Lake. eadwood Dick’s Dea ra 809 Deadwood Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. 821 Dendwood Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats 847 Dendwood Dick’« Ducats; or, Days in the Diggings. 851 Deadwood Dick Sentenced; or, The Terrible Vendetta, 862 Deudwood Dick’s Claim, 421 Deadwood Dick in New York; or, A “Cute Case.” 480 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand, 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr. 448 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Defiance. 458 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s Full Hand, 459 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Bic Round-Up. 465 Deadwood Dick, J 471 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. A776 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Dog Detective, ASL Deadwood Dick. Jr., In Deadwood, 600 Deadwood Dick, dr.’s, DI eings. 508 Deadwood D verance. 515 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Protegee. 622 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Three. 529 Deadwood Dick, dr.’s, Danger Ducka, 584 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Denth Hunt, 710 Deadw Dick, Jr., in San Francisco, 716 Deadw Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hunt, 722 Deadw Dick, Jr.’s, DomIinees. 8 Deadweod Dick, J 4 Deadwood Dick, J 8 r 4 Deadweed Dick, Jr.'s, Boathblow. 6 te Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Defeat. BY J. ©. OCOWDRICK, Breadway Billy Novels, 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo, 514 Broadway Lilly’« Boodle. 686 Brondway Billy’s_‘ Diitkilty.” 5ST Breadway RBilly’s Peath Racket. 579 Brondway Bilily’s Surprise Party, 605 Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning. 628 Broadway Billy's Dead Act. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad. $39 Broadway Billy’s Best; or,Beating San Franciaco’s Finest. 6 Prenewey Billy tn Clover. 696 Broadway Billy in_ Texas. 08 Broadway Billy’s Brand. 11 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe. 20 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand. 85 Broadway Billy’s Business. 88 Broadway Billy’s Curlous Case, 58 Broadway Billy tn Denver. 62 Broadway Billy’s Bargain. 69 Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective, ty Broadway Billy’s Shadow Chase. 8 Broadway Billy’s Beagles, 86 Broadway Billy’s Team. +4 Broadway flies Brigade. 4 roadway y’s Queer Bequest. pert: Mn Billy Baflled, Other Novels by J. ©. Cowdrick. 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery. 869 Shasta, the Gold King}; or, For Seven Years Dead, 420 The Delective’s Apprentice; or, A Boy Without a Name, 424 Cibuta Jonny or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout. 467 Diaco Dan, the ig Dude. 506 Redlight Ralph the Prince of the Road, 524 The Engineer Detective. Bi AtrcLine Luke the Young Engin } r-Line Luke the Young Engineer. Boe The Hoy Pink 1g ePeletedricdededededeIeie? ee J ° erto 615 Fighting Harr the Chief of Chained E Oreloess 3 Bareback Reth, the Centaur of the Typewriter Tilly, the Merchant's Ward. $59 Menaticht Morgan, the” Pisenest” Man of Ante Baz. / / of ih x: “" ’ ! ate 7 chin rae eA BO UE et as e| nf oh ls pete eee! ih Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cleven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon. 82 Bob Woolf’; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 89 Death-Fuace, Detective; or, Life in New York. 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, ' 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix, 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team. 69 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter; or, The Boy Detective. SO Rosebud Tob; or, Nugget Ned, the Kuight. 84 Idyl, the Girl Miner$ or, Rosebud Rob on Hand. 88 Phetorraph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance. 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 6 Watch-Eye; or, Arabs and Angels of a Great City, 8 Jack Moyle _the Young Speculator. 7 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective. 1 Cinnamon Chip, the Girl Sport. > Bonanza Bill, Miner. = 8 Bova Bob the King of Bootblacks, 1 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. & Captuin Ferret, the New York Detective, at ak ee tak ek td Se eS —e a 1 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. ? Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scampe, 1 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo, 19 Fritz the Bound-Boy Detective. 8 Fritz te the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter, 226 Bnoozer, the Boy Sharp; or, The Arab Detective, 236 Apello Bill, the Trail Tornado. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator. 244 Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret. 248 Sierra Sam’s Seeret}; or, The Bloody Footprints, 255 Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vista, 258 Sierra Sam’s Seven}; or, The Stolen Bride. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Koy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs, 2TT Denver Doll , the Detective Queen, 2S1 Denver Doll’s Victory. 285 Penver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 296 Denver Doll’s Drift; or, The Road Queen, 299 A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker, 808 ’Liza’ Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. B25 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia. 880 Little Quick-Shet 3 or, The Dead Face of Daggersville, 834 Kangaroe Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner, $89 Kangaroo Kit’s Racket. 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Blood. 44 ee red, Sop ae ae C6 + § reka Jim, the Gold-Gatherers or, Tho Life Lottery. B72 Yreka Jim's Prize. oS F 7S Nabob Neds or, The Seoret of Slab City. 82 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 885 Yreka Jim’s Jokers or, The Rivals of Red Nose, 889 Bicycle Ben; or. The Lion of Lightning Lode, 894 Yreka Jim ef Yuba Dam, 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Marry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Slabsides, the Daexar Boy Detective. 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives, 458 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher. 436 Sealskim Sam, the Sparkier. =soer BY T, 0. HARBAUGH. 28 Nick o’ the Nights or, Th» Bey Spy of ’76. 8B? The Hidden Lodge; or The Little Hunter, 47 Nightingale Wats or, Tne Forest Captains, 64 Dand ack} or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trali, 82 Kit MWarefoot the Wood-Hawk. 94 Midnight dash s. or, The Boy Trapper. 106 Old Frosty, the Guide; or, The White Queen, 128 Kiowa Charley thc White Mustanger. 189 Judge Lynch Jr.t or, The Bey Vivijante. 155 Gold Trigger, the Sport; or, The Girl Avenger. 169 Teruade Tom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core, 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy, 198 Arkansnw ; er, The Que+n of Fate’s Revenge. 207 Navaje Nick. the Boy Gold Hunter, 215 Captain Bullet; or, Little Tonknot’s Crusade, 281 Plucky Phil; or, Rossa, the Re! Jezebel. 241 Bill Brave; or, The Roughs of the wee e 255 Captain Apell: , tne King-Pin of Bowle. 267 Tho Kuckaskin Detective. 279 Old bets rea 8 or, The Buckskin Desperadoes, 294 Dynamite Pan; or, The Bowle Blade of Gochetopa. | 802 The Mountain Detective; or, The Trigger Bar Sully. 816 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizone, 8236 The Tem Pards: or, The Terror of Take-Notice, 886 Bie Bensen; or, The Queen of the Lasso. 845 Pitiless Matt; or, Ked Thunderholt’s Secret, G56 Cool Sam and Var’: or The Terrible Six. 866 Velvet Feot, the Indian Detective, 886 Captain Cutlass; or, | he B-ccancer’s Girl Foo. 896 Rougk heme or, The !win Champions of Blue Blazes, 411 The Silken Lasso: or, The Rese of Ranch Robin, 418 Felix Fex, the Boy Spotter. 425 Texas Trump. the Border Rattler. 486 Phil Mlaah, the New Tork Fox. 445 The City Vamplres; or, Ked Rolfe’a Pigeon. 461 One Against Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. AT? The Exceisior Sport; or, The Washington Spotter. 499 Single Sight, the Geeare Sport. 502 Branded Ben, the Night ferret. 512 Dodecer Dick, the Wharf-Spy Detective, 521 Dodger Dick’s Best Dedge. 5628 Fox and Falcon, the Bowery Shadows. 588 Dodger Dick, the Dock Ferret. 548 Dodger Dick’« Double; or, The Rival Boy Dotectives. 558 Dodger Dick’s Desperate Case. 568 Dodger Dick. the Boy Vidocq, 578 The Two Shadows. 582 Dodger Dick’s Drop. 594 Little Lon, the Street-Singer Detective. 610 Old Skinner, the Gold Shark; or, Tony Sharp on Guard. 626 The Champion Parda, 687 Dick Doan, the Dock Boy Detective, 645 Kit, the Pavement Sharp. 658 Billy Bantam, the Boy Beagle. 671 Jersey Jed, the 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 Daisy Dell, the Pavement Detective; or, Trapping Big Game. 742 Billy Winks, the Bell Boy Detective, 754 Billy Winks, the Poss Boy Shadow, 768 Eagle Ned, the Boy on Guard. %80 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 Prairie. 55 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout. 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust, ‘ 7 er ee ae ee ee a eee j 7 BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM. ? The Flying Yankee; or, The Ocean Outcast, 17 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccanver; or, The Fugitive Yacht, 24 Diamond Birk; or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone, 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants. 7s The Boy Bnellist; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Wolf, 102 Dick Dead-Eye, the Boy Smuggier. 111 The Sea-Devil 3 or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 116 The Hussar Captain: or, ‘Tlie Hermit of Hell Gate, 197 Little Grit, the Wild Rider; or, The Stock-Tender’s Daughter. 204 Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider. 216 Bison Bill, the Prince of the Reins; or, Buffalo Bill’s Pluck, 222 Grit, the Brave Sport; or, The Woman Trailer, 229 Crimson Kate, the Girl Trailer. 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain; or, The Mysterious Ranchero 245 Merle, the Middy 3 or, The Heir of an Ocean Freelance, 250 The Midshipman Mutincer ; or, Brandt, the Buccaneer, 264 The Floating Feather; cr, Merle Monte’s Treasure, 264 The Gold Ship; or, Merle, the Condemned, 276 Merle Monte’s Cruise; or, * The Gold Ship” Chase, 280 Merle Monte’s Fate; or, The Pirate's Pride. 284 Merle Monte’s Pledge; or, The Sea Marauder. 287 Lilly Blue-Eyesr, the Boy Rover. $04 The Bead Krict Dandy ; or, Benito, the Boy Bugler, 808 Dead Shot Dandy’s Double. 814 The Mysterious Marauder; or, The Boy Bugler’s Trail, 877 Bonodel, the Boy Kover; or, The F legless Schooner, 888 The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island. 887 Warpath Will, the Traitor Guide; or, The Boy Phantom, 898 Seawalf, the Boy Lieutenant; or, The Red Clasped Hands. 402 Isodor, the Young Conspirator; or, The Fatal League, 407 The Boy Insurgent; or, The Cuban Vendetta, 412 The Wild Vachtamany or, The War-Clouu’s Cruise, 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 Captain Cart, the Corsnir; or, A Cabin Boy’s Luck, 487 The Seca Raider; or, The Hawks of the Hook. 441 The Ocean Firefly ¢ or, A Middy’s Vengennce. 446 Uaphazard Marry ¢ or, The Scnpegrace of the Sea, 450 Wizard Will, the Wonder Worker. 454 Wizard Will's Ktreet Scouta. 462 The Born Guide; or, The Sailor Boy Wanderer. 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Conater. 474 Wizard Wills Vagabond Pard, 488 Wizard Will's Last Case; or, Fcrrets Afloat, 487 Nevada Ned, the Revolver Ranger 495 Arizona Joe, the Boy Pard of Texas Jack, 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 508 The Royal Middy 3 or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. 507 The Hunted Midshipman; cr, The Young Sea Ranger, 611 The Outiaw Middy; or, The Youny Patriot Sea Ranger. 520 Buckskin Bill, the Comanche Shadow. 525 Brothers in Buckskin; er, The Tangled Trails in Texan, 580 The Buckskin Bowers. x 5685 The Bue skin Revers; or, The Prairie Fugitive, 540 Captain Ku-Klux, the Marauder or the Rio, 5645 Lieutenant Leo, the Son of Lafitte. 550 Lalitte’sa Legacyt or. The Avenging Son. 565 The Creole Corsair; or, The Golden Wings of the Gulf 560 Pawnee Bill, the Prairie Shadower. 565 Kent Kingdon the Card King. 570 Camille, the Card Queen; or, The Skeleton Trail, 575 The Surgceon-Scout Detective. 580 The Outeast Cadet; or, The False Detective. 686 The Buckskin Avenger; or, Pawnee Bill’s Pledge. 591 Delmonte, the Young Sea Rover; or, The Avenging Sailor. 597 The Young Texan Detective; or, The Black Bravos, 602 The Vagabond ofthe Mines. 607 The Rever Petective; or, Keno Kit’s Champions. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scout; or, The Rio Raiders, 644 Butterfly Billy’s Debut. j 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Rider Detective; or, Buffalo Bill’e Boy Para. 656 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt. 662 Buttertly Billy’s Bonanza. ~ 668 The Buccaneer Midshipman; or, The Sea Rover’s Ruse. 674 The Wizard fSaflor; or, Red Ralph, the Rover. 679 The Sea Shadewer; or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. 686 Orlande, the Ocean Free Flag; or, The Tarnished Name. 692 The Rival Sharps; or, Redfern, the Secret Service Scout. 697 The Scarlet Soembrere; or, The Sharp from Texas, 7@2 Blue Jacket BAL; or, The Red Hat Rangers’ Red Hot Racket. 707 The Rea Sombrero Rangers; or, Redfern’s Last Trail. 718 Carl, the Mad Cowbey; or, Ti.e Lariat Queen. 219 Pawnee Bills Pledeces or, The Cowboy Kidnapper’s Doom, 225 Daring Pick, Pawnee Bill’s Pard, or, The Red Cavalry Raid, 781 Ruth Redmond, the Girl Shadower. 787 Buck Taylor, the ( omanche’s Captive. 248 Buck Taylors Boyaj or, The Red Rivers of the Rio Grande, 749 Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trail. 756 Dashing Charlie’s Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive. 760 Dashing Charlie’« Pawnee Pard. 766 Dashing Chartic, the Rescuer. 272 Dick Doom’s Peath-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny. Zt Dick Doom’a Deatiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror, 784 Dick Doom, the Death-Grip Detective. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 288 Bick Doom in Bostens or, A Man of Many Masks. By Col. Prentiss Ingrabam. 789 Sam Sheridan, the Secret Service Special; or, The Jamboree at urly Bird Bar. By Wm. G. Patten. 790 Brondweay Billy’s Brigade. By J. C. Cowdrick. 791 Kit Ban Rattled; or, The Infant Giant. By Ol] Coomes, Deadwe Dick, Jr.’s, Double Device. By Edward 4. Wheeler, 79X Dick Doom in Chicngo; or, The Ferret of the Golden Fetters. By Col. Prentias Ingraham, € 794 Weudlight Harry’s Hunt; or, The Railroad Parda’ Tough. in in Satan’s gue By Col. A, F. Holt, ; 795 Kit Bandy in Red Ruin; or, The Young Whirlwind of 796 Rroadway Billy’ B t; or, Sifting th Broadwa ya Queer Bequest; or, ng the Santyeord Becier, By mo Cowdrick. 3 297 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Desperate Venture. By Edward L, Wheeler. 283 pick poem, in Me Bt West, By Col, P. Ingrabam.. <it Bandy’s uatle, By Toomen. 800 Broadway Billy Baffled. By J. C. Cowdrick, 801 mens Kirby, the High-Kicker from Killbuck. By Lieut. A. K, Sims, “ 802 Dendwoed Dick, Jr.s, Diamond Dice. By Edward L. Whevles. 808 Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep. By Col. P. Ingraham. 804 Kit Bandy’s Brigade. By Ol! Coomes, 805 Broadway Billy’s Signal Scoop. By J. C. Cowdrick, 806 Silver Spur Steve, the Ranch’ Mascot. By W.G, Patten. Ready January 3d. : ; 4 bi E By E. L, Wheelez 807 Menéwond Dick: Jn’s, Flush Hand. By A New Fesue Every Tuceday. The Half- Dime Library 'e for nsle by all newsdealers, five cents per copy, er cand by mail en recelpt of six eents each. BEADI#A AND ADAMA, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Yorks il oe ah lilt 4 4 4 a t . dl