Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 809) (1893 01 24)
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AST len! en Le Ld Le bs \ l A) \ WW alt Monin se Perret a nai January a, 18 93. Cc ‘opy righte d 1898, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, __ Entered as som aaa Cc lass Matter at | the New ‘York. N. Xx, , Post OMice, Ne $2. 50 PUBLISHE D WEEK LY BY BE ADL E ho ae is ae O. 809. 2 ohtenpaetc URE AP Sent PSN Oe an 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK, _ ae cents. WL ‘ll IT ti GENT A DENVER, a KIN G KEENE, of the U. S. Secret Sle faa ’, Vf, YY Y , 4/ Y UTE bane i | : | iM J i i THERE STOOD THE REAL DON DANTON, PRINCE OF DETECTIVES, TO CONFRONT THE DARING IMPOSTOR!
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Don Danton, THE GENT FROM DENVER; OR, The Kick-up at Kickapoo, BY KING KEENE, Of the U. S. Secret Service Corps, CHAPTER I, CONGENIAL COMPANIONS, Tur regular stage between Wainwright and Kickapoo was lumberiug leisurely along in the direction of the place last named, It was the afternoon of a pleasant day, and the passengers on top were enjoying the ride to the full—the little enjoyment that can be found in that mode of traveling. On the box with the driver was a rather daudified individual, perhaps thirty years of age. He was clad in tthe finest, from a silk “stovepipe” above to a pair of patent-leather boots below, with everything else about him in keeping with these, He was good-looking, with a dashing, daré- devil air, and smoked cigars which expressed their excellent quality in every whiff. He had favored the Jehu with one of his ‘‘ weeds,” and that competent judge of a good thing had de- clared it was ‘‘ right up in high G.” On the top proper were four others, who bad been whiling away the time playing at eucher. One of these was a young man of twenty-five, clad in a business suit of ordinary cut and texture, Another was a miner, judging by his dress and general appearance—a man of thirty Vi maybe, whoanswered to the name of Tom rump. The other two, like Mr, Trump, were ordinary *“ citizens ””—miners, teamsters, or something in that line. OP sma! Thar!” presently exclaimed Tom Trump, as he lost another trick and the game ended, ‘* I’m done. I have had enough fer this yer’ time.” “Not going to back out, are you?” asked the young man, as he took in the trifle of money staked, he having won this game. “It is just getting interesting.” ‘* Yas, I’m done,” Mr. Trump iterated, ‘“ M pocket might stand et all right, but my ‘back won't, and I reckon [ll stretch out hyer and take a smoke ; that is ter say, ef our friend thar in front won’t ’bject ter my minglin’. common smoke wi’ his pure blue artekel.” ' ng dandy on the box glanced around with a smile, **] can fix matters so you will not have to impair the smoke,” hesaid, ‘*Try ono of mine and see how you like it, Pass the case along to the others, Take. one, boys, and we'll all smoke together, now that you are tired of play- ing. I think you'll say they are good enough fora prince. Here, driver, take another.” He had passed his ease to Mr, Trump as he spoke; it went around and each man took a eigar from it; and when it was returned to the owner he offered it to the driver with his closing words,; ~ The driver having had ohe before, was not slow to take another; and in a few minutes all. were petting away with great gusto and the stage was leaving a line of smoke behind that seemed loth to depart from the trail. ‘* Well, how are they?” the dandy inquired. ** Excellent, sir,” answered the young man, ‘That hits ’em,” cried Mr. Trump. ‘‘They’re dainty, like yerself, pardner,” The other twoand the driver had words of praise to offer, and the giver seemed much gratified. After a few minutes of silence the young man obzerved: ** Seems to me we are rather distant for fellow travelers all bound for the same place. Suppose we scrape acquaintance all around, All smok- ing the same cigars, we ought to be congenial, hale fellows well met, you know,” ‘‘Reckon I’ve given ye my bandle already,” spoke up Tom Trump, ‘Ye see me fer Jost what I am; no better, no worse, ‘Somethin’ of a miner in my way, and jest now bound fer ther camp of Kickapoo in hopes of strikin’a job in some of themines thar. That’s my tally straight out. ‘*My name,” the young man then ke up “is Howard Royland, and I hail Rein Hewes Tam a mining expert and assayist, and I am going to Kickapoo to pass judgment on a mine ealled the Wonder, which has been offered for Zale at Denver, and which a party of capitalists Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. tink of buying, provided it is found to be as shall soon determine that for | Kickapoo; and that is sayin’ a good deal, too, represented, them, when I see the property and what it turns out, The other two on top gave their names and stated their business, and that narrowed it down to the dandy on the box, ** Don’t feel forced to chip in unless you want to, sir,” responded the mining expert, ‘Ob, ’m seldom forced to do anything,” was the rejoinder. ‘‘ AsI am not traveling incog., I will tell you just who and what Iam. Our friend Trump here has come very near to men- tioning my name already; or, if not my name, my handy appellation.” ‘* Me?” questioned the miner, in some surprise, ‘“* How hev Il come nigh ter mentionin’ yer ban- dle, pard?” ‘““Why, did you not tell me my cigar was a dainty, like myself?’ ‘Yas; I bilieve I did say somethin’ ver that effect; but, how does that come close to yer name?” ‘*T will explain. My name, gentlemen, is Don Danton, but I am better known as Delicate Don, You see, Mr, Trump, when you called me dainty you were not far off the track, dainty and delicate being akin.” ‘* Delicate Don?” echoed Royland. ‘‘ Not Don Danton, the detective?” Tom Trump and the other two, with the driver, were all attention, and evidently full of interest at this disclosure, as the name was re- cognized instantly, for Don Danton, familiarly called ‘* Delicate Don,” owing to his dainty ele- gance in matters of dress and manners, was widely known by reputation as a fearless and successful detective, ‘The same,” the man on the box assured, ‘*I am going down to Kickapoo to take possession of a mine, to which I hold a proprietary right, by power of attorney given me by the owner before he died. I shall taka possession peace- ably if I can, but I will fight for it if I have to do so, When Delicate Don takes hold of a thing he doesn’t do it by halves, you may be sure of that. k 1 CHAPTER ITI. DANTON EXPLAINS FURTHER. : THE driver, Tom Trump, and the others looked upon the man with something akin to wonder and admiration, an attenticn which he seemed rather to enjoy. ‘**Yedon’t really mean ter say that you are Don Danton, do ye?” Tom Trump demanded, as though he could not believe it. ‘Are ye, now, sure ’nough, and no jvkip’ about et?” The dandy laughed pleasantly. “T have given it to you straight,” he de- clared. ‘‘I’m the real Donald, sure enough. I take it that you have heard of me, all of you, As I said before, I am not traveling incog.— that is, in disguise—and there is no reason why I shoyldn’t make myself known. Somebody would be sure to recognize me, I opine.” ‘“Durn me ef this hyar ain’t a red-letter day to me!” cried the driver. ‘‘ Who would’a’ thort et? So you are ther chap what scooped ther durndest outlaw ia ther hull West, are ye? This isav honor I never dreamed of havin’, this is; and tickle me with a club ef Iain’t ez proud as ary peacock with his tail spread, Goin’ to Kickapoo to take a mine, hey?” “That is the business that is calling me there,” ‘*Mought a feller inquire what mine et ar’?” ‘¢ Tt is called the Little Sweetheart, I believe.” “Ther Leetle Sweetheart? Why, that’s Job Letson’s mine! Ye don’t mean ter say Job is dead, dovye?” ‘*That was the name of the man who trans. ferred the property to me, anc he is dead, sure enough. You knew him, then, did you?” “Know Job Letson? I should remark that I did, pardner! Pore Lamia; she will be jest nigh about killed by this hyar news. Et’s too bad, darn me ef et ain’t.” “Tamia? That's Job’s daughter, is it not?’)3 ‘* Yas; and a finer gal never drawed breath, as you'll havo ter say when ye see her.” “*T suppose she will take it rather hard, poor child. I must break the news toher as gently as Ican. How old is she?” **She must be crowdin’ twenty purty close, I should think. She’s jest a daisy, and ther best- lookin’ gal thar is in all Kickapoo, an’ in all this kentry, fer that matter. But, when did Job die?” 4 : ‘Tt ig several days ago, now.” “Pore feller! I was afeerd bis fall would set- tle him,” ‘* What do you know about this mine, the Lit- ‘tle Sweetheart? Is it a good one?” “Tt is as good as ther best of ’em thar at fer some of ’em are prime, up to ther very tail- | in’s,” ‘* And what do you know about the Wonder?” | here put in the young man, Royland, “Til leave you ter judge of that fer yerself, seein’ as you are a expert on mines,” was the driver's evasive response, ‘Is the Sweethcart running?” asked Delicate on, ‘Yes, et is workin’,” the driver answered to that. ‘** And who is managing it?” ‘A man named Woolfe Nathan.” ‘What manner of manis he? No harm to ask, since I am likely to have dealings with him.” *“Wull, be is ruther a tony feller, about your own age, I should say, Ruther struck with a notion fer Job’s gal, 1 take et.” ‘“*That-is the situation, eh? I understood from Job that he did not think and too well of this man Nathan; one reason why he urged me to take the mine in charge, you see,” “Et may beall right, but ’'m of the mind that you will have trouble in gettin’ Woolfe Nathan out, Et will be a good deal as ther gal says, of course, though, and I’m ruther of ther *pinion that she don’t keer fer him,” ‘¢ Tt will be as J determine,” the detective de- clared, ‘*I have the right, and I’m going to possess that mineif I have to fight for it, as I said before. The girl’s interest and mine are at stake in the matter, you see. I’m to work it on shares, giving the girl half, or sell it if I think best, for our mutual interests,” ** Wull, {hope thar ain’t no trouble, but I’m ufeerd thar will be,” “Et hits me,” here spoke up Tom Trump, ‘that this is about as good a time as any ter ly fer a job,” Danton turned and looked at him for a mo- ment, s *¢ Do you mean that you want to engage with me ?” he asked, , ‘*1%m bound fer Kickapoo lookin’ fer work, as I’ve said afore, and may as well work fer you as anybody, if the pay is al) hunky.” ‘¢ Did I understand you to say you understand mining pretty well? Do you think you could fill the post of assistant-superintendent?” ‘¢ 7d like ther chance ter try et, boss. I have had experience in that line, and I think I kin fill ther bill. Ef I don’t, after a try, why it’s eas ter dispose of me, I'l git up and gitat a wink,” ‘* Well, consider yourself engaged, then. As soon as I get possession of the mine I'll settle with you regarding your pay.” f ‘“¢That suits me first rate. I’m with ye, and I guess we kin yank ther mine, ef you hold ther solid papers as ye say.” “And Ido... Having engaged you, I shall ex- ¢ your assistance in securing my rights if it es to a rustle.” “ll back ye, you kin bet! Ther driver hyer cays this is his red-letter day, I reckon et’s mine, too.’ CHAPTER IIL, THE ARRIVAL AT KICKAPOO, THE camp of Kickapoo was a thriving place, It was in the bloom of youth and vigor, so to say, and was enjoying a boom, Rich silver lodes bad been discovered there, and no less than half a dozen shafts, drifts and levels were in active operation, Capitalists had their eyes upon the place, and three of the mines had been brought up and were being worked as company concerns, One other was now for sale. The other two were still held by the original owners, and one of these was the ‘‘ Little Sweet- heart,” of which something has been made known in the foregoing chapters. This mine ranked second to none in one output and high assay. Job Letson, the owner of the ‘ Sweetheart,” had been among the first discoverers, and being a man of large experience in mining matters, had staked his claim where be knew a payibg lode was a certainty. And he bad made no mis- take, as the richness of the mine proved, Several offers had been made for this locate, all of which had been refused, for Job knew he could command a better price later on, if he wanted to ‘sell out, of which be was as yet un- certain, He managed the mine himself, with the help of an assistant, the Woolfe Nathan of whom mention has been made, and it was now ying big returns, and the “ showing ” growing better all the time, Some time prior to our story, Job Letson had met with a serious accident at the mine, Se
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i ‘ Through some mishap he bad fallen down t'e | shaft and had narrowly escaped being killed | outright. Asit was, he was badly broken and | bruised, and for weeks his life hung in the balance. During that time Nathan managed the property for him, Finally Job Legan to mend, but it was found thac ho would have to go to Denver for treatment and perhaps to have ®& surgical operation performed, He went, placing Nathan in full charge, and leaving his daughter, Lamia, at Kickapoo as a sort of general supervisor until his return, Let- ters had been received from him, each one tell- ing of improvement in his condition, and the daughter was beginning tc look forward to the time of his return, For several days just preceding the time of our story, however, nothing had been beard from him, and Lamia was full of anxiety con- cerning him. And now, as we have seen, a stranger was bearing to her the sad news of her father’s death, But further concerning the camp and mine econter, It was almost a young city in point of popu- lation, though as yet only an infant in days. It had two or three hotels, many saloons, of course, and a large number of shanties of a tem- porary sort that had hastily been put up. i. Besides these there were a few buildings of the substantial sort, particularly the offices be- longing to the company mines, Some cottages had been built and others were in process of con- struction, Land value was increasing every day, and there was every prospect that the camp would goon pass through its embryo stage and become a neat and pretty village in the near future, Hence those who had claims and were holding fast to them were considered wise, Tho leading hotel was the ‘*‘ Merry Monarch,” owned and conducted by one Henry Bridgelow, familiarly spoken of as ‘‘ Hen Low.” ‘This was the largest of the three, and the best, and was jocated in the center of thecamp., Opposite to it was the chief saloon, the ‘* Best Hand.” Near this was the Post-office and other important ad- juncts to a well regulated town, This was the business center, dnd here, about stage-time on this day of which we write, a crowd was congregated, Presently the Wainwright ‘‘ hearse,” as the stage was called, came in sight up the valley, bringing with it a cloud of dust as the driver ‘was putting his team to a little spurt of speed to come into town in style, ; The word was quickly passed that the stage was coming, the crowd was speedily enlarged by an outpouring from the hotels, saloons, stores, etc., and by the time the ramshackle old vehicle came clattering up to the’ Merry Mon- ‘arch, where it stopped, it looked as though the avhole camp,was out, “ Hillo, boyees, byer we are again!” sung out the driver, as he flung the lines from his left and right at once, ‘“‘ Hyer we are, and every wheel with me, And, boyees, I brought a pas- sepger this time that ye orter be proud of, Hyar’s ther great outlaw-ketcher, Mister Don Danton, Thisis ther gent, hyar on ther box, and ther man what don't use him white has got ter lick me! You hear that chatter?” There was great excitement in a moment, Don Danton at Kickapoo? Delicate Don’s deeds had been heard of there, and everybody pressed forward to get a look at see Rat detective. n the piazza of the hotel were two young men who exchanged a glance at mention of the name, and coolly surveyed the smiling, confident dandy, as he got down from the stage-box, These two were Woolfe Nathan and one Ajfis- tin Brett, The former has been introduced; the latter was manager of the mine that was for sale, the ‘* Wonder.” Both were well dressed, and had ‘something of the air of sports about them. jThey .were smoking, and appeared to have been in conversation, The driver had got down immediately after making his announcement, and Delicate Don did likewise, to be followed in turn by Tom Trump, Howard Royland, and the other two top |pas- sengers. There were passengers inside, too, who were clambering out at the same moment. The crowd was pressing closer, eager to see the noted detective, and it was with some effort that he and the others reached the steps to the piazza. Don Danton’s name was being called, louder and louder each moment, and when he reached the piazza he turned and lifted his hat to the crowd, a flush of something suspiciously like pride appearing upon bis face as he did so, Here he was, a stranger, yet one whose name was well known, and the crowd was ready to worship bim as the hero of whom they bad heard so many deeds of valor. But a bow would not suffice, as he found; be must speak, ‘* Well, gentlemen of Kickapoo,” horemarked, removing his hat, ‘‘ it appears the driver bas got me into something of a fix by telling who I am, I greet you one and all. Iam not here on de- tective business, as I may as well state at once, but upon a mission of altogether a different sort.” Replacing his hat he stepped back, and as he entered the bar-room of the hotel a rousing cheer went up from the crowd without. The driver had handed out the mail, and now a good portion of the crowd went off in the di- rection of the post-office, but more crowded into the bar-room of the Merry Monarch, Little or no attention was shown to any of tho other passengers, Danton’s name having eclipsed them, as it were; they, therefore, entered the hotel almost unnoticed, while the driver got out his Express and other stuff, and doing up the lines, led his caravan away, Woolfe Nathan and Austin Brett had stepped into the bar-room after Danton, and stood in the background watching him while he registered. He seemed to have some interest for them, whatever it might be, but that did not appear yet. They exchanged remarks in low tones as they watched him, Tom Trump registered next after Detective Danton, and then followed the young man and the others in order—such of the passengers as sought entertainment at that establishment, About the time the last one registered, it hav- ing taken some little time for the slow-going landlord to serve each his turn, the whole room was startled by a wild scream out on the street in front, and instantly a rash was made for the door, CHAPTER IV. DANTON’S BUSINESS MADE KNOWN, On the ground, in front of the hotel, lay a young woman, She was lying ov her side, and in one hand she held an opened letter, So they found her. “Why, et’s Job Letson’s gal!” cried the first man outof the bar-room after thescream, ‘f E's Lamia Letson!” Woolfe Nathan, Austin Brett, Delicate Don and others were following the crowd out, and at mention of this name they pushed forward with more interest, Already a group of men had gathered around the girl, but as yet no one had offered to touch her. They seemed to stand in awe, as if fearful that some terrible crime had been done, ** Stand aside!” ordered Woolfe Nathan, push- ing through the crowd, Way was made for him, and he and Brett hastened to the girl and lifted her up, and bore her to the piazza. As they did this the letter fell from her nerve- less fingers, It was picked up by Tom Trump, who glanced at its contents, ‘‘ What have you there?” asked Delicate Don, ‘Ther letter what ther gal had in her hand,” Tom answered. ** Let me see it.” Tom surrendered it promptly. Delicate Den read it there and then, after which he pushed forward to where the young woman had been laid. Nathan was rubbing her hands, trying to bring her to, while Brett was wiping ber fore- head, with the same purpose in view, “T wonder what can have caused it?” Brett was querying, ‘* Hal” exclaimed Nathan, ‘* that reminds me, Where is the letter she had in her hand?” “It is right here, sir,” spoke up Delicato Don, extending it. ‘‘I think this explains the cause of the young lady’s fainting.” **'You have read it then, sir?” “T have,” . By what right did you presume to do that?” “*T did not stop to weigh my right,” was the curt retort. ‘‘ Had I done so, no doubt I should have found that it overtops yours,” ‘* What do you mean by that?” ** You will learn before long, sir.” Nathan glared at the man for a moment, but did not press the question further just then, - Having taken the letter, he proceeded to read it, while Brett continued his exertions with the young woman to bring her to, “‘ Heavens!” Nathan ejaculated, as he read, + Job Letson dead |” ** Dead?” echoed Brett, And the crowd voiced the same exclamation, It was a shocking piece of news, ‘** No wonder the poor girl fainted,” remarked i a Don Danton, the Gent from Den ver. Nathan, ‘ This is awful news, Jt is too bad | tuatit could not have reacbed ber ia some more ] gentle manner,” He read on, and another exclamation escaped him. ‘“‘Thunder!” he this time broke out; and turning, he glared at Delicate Don, ‘* You see how it is,” observed Don, quietly, ‘“*T thought I was the only bearer of the sad news, but it seems the mail got ahead of me,” “Then it is true—” “Tt is true that I hold power of attorney from Job Letson, and that all his interests here must be surrendered to me!” The crowd listened in amazement, ‘*Read ther letter, Mister Nathan,” one man called out, ‘ Let’s all bear what ethas ter Say. This demand was urged with such force that Nathan had tocomply, and opening the sheet, having folded it, be read it aloud as follows: ““ Denver, Con., —, 18—. **To Miss LAMIA Lorson, at OQ.mp Kiekupoo, Cols—, “Dear Miss:—It is with much pain and great sympathy that we are obliged to unnounce to you the death of your father, which occurred on the 10th. Knowing that it would be impossible, owing to distance, for you to get her», he has been buriec with every attention qud without regard to expense, Before death he made Mr. Donald Danton his legal proprietary attorney. This gentleman will be at your place very sbortly, with full power to act, ** Yours in deep sympathy, 2 ‘Drs. Weep & Ruypau.” Just as Nathan finished reading, the young woman began to show signs of coming to, and thrusting the letter into his pocket be again lent assistance to Brett to complete her soma tion, Presently she opened her eyes, and fora few moments gazed wonderingly at the many faces about her. Suddenly it came back to her, the terrible news, and with another cry she became again unconscious, It was more than she could bear, By this time half the camp was gathered be- fore the hotel, many women being in the crowd, and it was now that one of these made the sug- gestion that the young lady be carried home, No one seemed to have thought of this, “Tt is the best thing to be done, before she comes to again,” said Nathan. With a motion to Brett, the two lifted her. and commanding the crowd to fall back, carried her off and away, ‘* Hit’s ruther rough on ther pooty gal, and no mistake,” remarked the miner, Tom Trump, speaking to Delicate Don, now his employer. “You are right it is,” Don agreed. ‘*I had half a mind to goalong with them, but it would look too much like forcing my claim at a wrong time. lam a stranger to the young lady, you see et, Mister Danton, and afore we go any furder with this hyar business, thar’s one p’int that I want to be set right on, seein’ that now I am in your service, lLet’s step away where we kin per rat a few words in private,” ‘‘*Why, certainly, Tom,” was the response, ‘* We'll go up to my room, for we have no call to remain here.” The crowd was already beginning to disperse, and these remarks had been made in low tones that could not be overhead by those nearest. Taking a last look after those who bed carried the fainting girl away, with the portion of the crowd that followed them, the detective turned and entered the bar-room again, Here be made known his desire to go to his room, and the landlord called a boy and ordered him to show the way, Delicate Don and his man were soon in the room, with the door closed, ‘“ Now,” said Don, ‘‘ what is it you want to say tome, Tom?” They had taken seats, and after hitching him- self in his chair for a moment, as though up- easily, Tom Trump came to the point: ‘T opie you'll admit that thet ar’ gal is a darn fine woman of her age, ’bout as fine as they make ’em, in fact, won’t ye?” he began, *“You mean Miss Letson? Yes, she is a mighty fine-looking girl, Tom,” ** And mebbe jest as good as she is purty, too.” ** 7 haven’t a doubt of it.” “That’s what I thought. Now, Mister Dan- ton, ther p’int of ther business is jest right hyer. Tom Trump is a man what was never known ter do a mean act when thar was a wo- man in ther case, and afore I go further wi’ you in this hyer matter [ want ter know fer sure that you are jest what ye claim ter be; that is, that you have ther paper ye say ye have,” The detective laughed at this, “ Yas, that’s so, While we are talkin’ about
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4 Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. **T see how it is, Tom,” he declared, ‘* That girl’s pretty face, so pale and sorrowful in her swoon, has made its impression on you, and touched the soft place in your beart, But that is all right, and I bonor you for it, You need have no doubts regarding my right in what I claim, Here is the paper; take it and look it over carefully. You will find it straight. Iam willing to show you the proof, for I want you to help me in this matter,” He took a legal-looking paper from an inner pocket as be spoke, and put it in the miner’s hands, Tom Trump took it and began to open it in rather a clumsy fashion. **) don’t know as I kin make much out of et,” he said, ‘but I kin read enough ter find your name in et, anyhow.” Having got it opened, he proceeded to read it in a seemingly slow way, and was some minutes in its perusal, when he banded it back again, ** T reckon et’s all right,” he acknowledged, ** Be assured that it is all right,” seconded the detective. ‘* Here, I'll read it aloud for you, so that you can get the full sense of it the better.” He proceeded to read. There could scarcely be any question about the genuineness of the document, It was framed in true legal style, and set forth that Donald Danton was duly and legally authorized to all the detective claimed, "Full and absolute power was given him—full possession of all mining and other interests, con- ditionally; and the condition was, that Lamia Letson was to bave half of everything, whether from the profits or sale, Tom Trump was satisfied. Now, he declared, he! could go into the thing with a clear con- science, and it would be funny if they couldn’t get possession of the mine and make it hum in the interest of the young woman, Anybow, he could be counted on, he declared, CHAPTER V. PECULIAR PARTNERS, A Day or two previous to the time of our story a brace of peculiar characters had made their A yale ed at Kickapoo, ne of these was a Chinaman of the typical sort, clad after the manner of his kind, who re- joiced in the Celestial name of Chin Chop, The other, the Chinaman’s companion, was a young Irish Jad who answered |to the name of erry, but whose name in full, as had been learned, was Terrence McCune. These had taken up their quarters at the least pretentious of the three hotels of the camp, and the Celestial had let out that he was on the lookout for a good place to open an opium den, They were peculiar characters, as said. The Chinaman tried to exercise a sort of paternal authority over the lad, but Terry stood ever ready to resent his fatherly attentions, On the other hand, the Chinaman evinced a fondness for the bottle, which the Irish lad made it his business to nip in the bud as often as be caught “ Jobn” in the act of taking a nip on the sly, He was in the employ of the Chinaman, it ap- peared, for this very purpose, and seemed determined to do his whole duty. Chin Chop knew his own weakness in this direction, knew that whisky and attention to business could not go hard in hand, and had hired Terry to be his keeper. Their business arrangement as employer and employed was a unique one, Terry’s remunera- tion was altogetber conditional, and there were fluctuations in his stock with every hour in the day. It was now up, now down; but on the whole it worked to Terry’s advantage in the long run, for he was, as said, attentive to busi- ness, Terry’s keep was assumed by the Chinaman, Additional to that, the lad received a dime every time he cheated the Chinaman out of a drink when he would give way to the temptation and treat bimself on the sly, On the other hand, if ‘‘ John” stole a march on Terry now and then, and imbibed a clandestine dram, Terry had to refund a dime to the Chinaman by way of fine. It was an arrangement that worked pretty well to the satisfaction of both parties concerned, It was impossible for Chin Chop to get drunk, the main point for which he was concerned, while at the same time it did not cut off his ag altogether. And then, it’ gave Terry de sco for tricks, laying temptations in the Celestial’s way and then putting in his ap- pearance at the critical moment and reaping his reward, SS SS SD But, enough, at this juncture, of these ** worthies,.” On this day of which we write the two were seated on the piazza of their hotel when the stage arrived. When it had passed, and had gone on to ‘the Merry Monarcb and stopped, the Chinaman turned to his youthful guardian and said: ‘* Telly, you go gettee mail.” ** All roight, Chopsey, as soon as it’s sorted,” was the response, “You go right ’way,” Chin Chop ordered. **Be solted by time you gettee there, allee samee,” ‘* Nixey, be jabers! Sure, it won’t take me no more nor wan minnit to run dhere and back, which same won’t give you time to take more nor wan dbrink.” ‘* Me no takee dlink this time, Telly. You go see if lettel at post-office for Chin Chop allee samee; me settee light here till you come back. Me no wantee dlink now anyhow, Telly.” ‘*Do ye m’ane dhat, Chopsey?” ** Yes, allee samee; Chin Chop him honest In- jun evely time.” ‘*Oi know how honestiye are, begob. Give me twinty cints as security and Ol be off ” The Chinaman looked at the lad for a moment in a comical way, but presently pulled the amount from his pocket and handed it over, ** All roight, Chopsey,’old boy, now Oi’m off,” cried Terry, slipping the money into his pocket and springing to bis feet, ‘‘See dhat ye don’t touch dhe bottle dhe while O:’m gone.” The Celestial promised again, faithfully, that he would not, and the Irish lad darted away in the direction of the post-office, When he had gone about half the distance be- tween the two points he glanced back, and Chin Chop was nowhere to’be seen, Terry stopped and started back about as fast as he had been coming the other way, with de- termination in his eye. Reaching the hotel he bounded into the bar- room, where he caught Chin Chop in the_act of imbibing. ** Hold up, dhere, Chopsey!” the lad exclaimed, peremptorily. Tbe Chinaman stopped in the act, and put down the glass with a look of disgust on his ace, The barkeeper and the few who were present laughed heartily, for this thing had given them a good deal of amusement of late, ‘* How many doses has he been afther tak- ing?” Terry asked of the man behind the bar. ** Has he bad more nor two already? Oi’m af- ther being interested, begob,” ‘‘He only jest came in,” was the response. ‘This is his first one, and ye didn’t give him time to get his nose in et.” “And no more Oi will, aythur,” Terry de- clared. ** Chia Chop only wantee this one,” the China- man declared, eying the glass fondly. ** Begob, ye said ye didn’t want any at all, so yedid. Drop it, Chopsey, and come along wid me. Oican’t be afther trustin’ ye, Oi see. ** You lettee me takee jest this ene, T’;'y, and me takee no more all day, allee samee.” ‘* And be tin cints out av pocket? Nixey, be- gob. You fork over dhe dime, me huckleberry, and dhen we'll goand see ay dhere is any let- re, The Celestial begged, but Terry was firm, so Chin Chop had to pay the forfeit and also for the drink which he had not been permitted to taste, It was rather rough on, him, as those present declared, The pair went off together to the post-office. When they reached there it was about the time the mail had been sorted and the window opened, Terry seeped up and inquired for letters for himself and Chin Chop, and received one in his own name but none for the Celestial, ‘* Whoop!” he exclaimed, ‘‘ Begob, but Oi have dhe best av ye dhis deal, Chopsey, old boy. Here’s a letther from me best girl, sure. Don’t sp’ake to me now till afther Oi read it.” ‘* You gettee lettel, now you tleat Chin Chop,” the Chinaman pro . ‘Meno gettee lettel, me feel vely bad, wantee something to bracee up. Let’s go back to hotel and you settee him up for Chin Chop.” » “No yedon't,” cried Terry. ‘‘Oi’ll give ye half of me letter whin Oi open it, and dhat will make it all roight. Oi’ll give ye dhe invillup.” ‘* Me no wantee him; do me no goodee,” ‘* Begob, ye don’t know a good thing whin ye see it, Chopsey. Dhe invillup is dhe best part, Sure, it’s dhe part ste licked wid ber own swate py and av ye ate it it’s a kiss ye will be get- ng. The crowd here enjoyeda Jaugh, asat the hotel, and the Chinaman and bis youthful com- panion passed out, When they reached the street they were just in time to hear the scream uttered by Lamia Letson, and to see the girl fall in her faint, as has been recorded. Terry was about to run forward to her assist- ance, but the Chinaman laid a detaining hand. on his shoulder, ‘*Holdee on,” he said, “no be too freshee,. Plenty folks to tend to lady.” Terry stopped short. ‘Guess youre right,” he agreed. ‘I'll jest take a look at dhe insides of dhis letter while: dhe crowd is runnin’ dhat way,” So, the pair stopped then and there and Terry opened bis letter and read it, to himself first, and then aloud to his companion, ‘** Allee samee all light,” the Celestial observ- ed, when he had heard all, ** You bet,” agreed Terry. Folding the letter and cramming it deep down into a pocket, Terry now ran to join the crowd around the girl, with Chin Chop close at bis heels, There they heard and saw what bas been set forth in the preceding chapter. More than once they exchanged glances hard to interpret, but said nothing to reveal their thoughts. When the young woman had been carried away by the two men, as set forth,:and the crowd broke up, they entered the hotel bar- room. A few moments later Delicate Don and Tom Trump came in, but remained only a moment, when they passed on through and up to their room for their private talk. Tbe Chinaman and his companion remained only a brief time, then, but passed out and bent their steps toward their own hotel, “What you thinkee of it, anyhow, Telly?” the Chinee asked in cautious tone, as they went. rs th M the living’ Joshua, it stumps me Chopsey !’” was the response, ‘ But, we must follow orders and ’tend to our own business, There’s going to be a kick-up here; you can bet on that, But, begob, dhis won't do, Chopsey, old boy! Oi. ymust not ferget'dhatit is Oirish Oi am, begorra!’” CHAPTER VI. SOME SCHEMING GOING ON. OnE of the prettiest of the new cottages at Kickapoo was the home of Lamia Letson, It was out of the rough camp center, \and about half-way between that point and Job Leston’s mine, the ‘* Little Sweetheart,” Job, as soon as fortune began to smile upon him, had tbvugbt first of his daughter, and had built this neat house expressly for her, deeding it to her as soon as completed, Lamia’s mother was dead, had been dead for years; but Job bad done bis duty Beane girl, bad iven ber a fair education and all the advantages e could afford, and at this time she was a young woman of more than average accomplish- ments for a poor girl, Thoy had a housekeeper, an elderly woman named Hannah Hunt, who thought a good deal of Lamia, and whom the girl loved in return. When Woolfe Nathan and Austin Brett car- ried Lamia home, after her fainting on the street before the hote!, it was the housekeeper who opened to the knocking. At the sight of the insensible girl, and the crowd of men who had followed, she gave a wild scream and caught the girl to her breast, demanding wildly to know whether she was dead, and what had happened. ‘*No, she’s not dead, Mrs, Hunt,” informed Nathan. ‘She has just received bad news, and the shock caused her to faint.” ‘“Bad news! What was it? Job Letson is not—” ‘*You have said it, Nathan hastened; ‘Job Letson is not, Heisdead.” - ‘““My God! Oh! the poor child, the poor child! But, carry her in and I will try to bring her to,” She made room for them now, and the still in- sensible girl was taken in, A few women had followed the crowd, and now these pressed in after the bearers, closing ths door bebind them, The girl was taken toa sitting-room and laid upon a lounge, and there the service of the two oung men ended, and they retired immediately, eaving her to the care of the women. After considerable effort Lamia was brought to consciousness once more, and this time seeing ' the kindly face of Mrs, Hunt bending over her,
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{ hate os ‘ alin MA EE NWA Sidi, ln ss . bo eee ag — @he threw her arms around the neck of her friend and burst into tears. Relief had come, ‘Ts it true, Aunt Hannah?’ she sobbed. “‘ Is it true that papa is dead? Oh! tell me it is not 30!” With soothing words the woman tried to com- fort her, and finally she began to grow more calm, though her face told plainly of her great sorrow, : : The young men, who had remained in another room during this time, now returned, Going forward to where Lamia lay, Nathan addressed her: avs ** Miss Letson, I know how useless it is to ex- press sympathy at such a time as this, for no words can in tke least lighten your sorrow. Still, Iam ion sympathy with youin your great loss, and only wish it were in my power to lighten your burden, Is there anything I can ao?’ “Thank you, Mr, Nathan,” was_the reply. ** No, there is nothing you can do, I ask only to be left alone now,” “Very well; [ understand how you feel, and will retire. If you want me, or there is any- thing I can do for you, do not hesitate to com- mand me,” Again she thanked him, and be and Brett withdrew, They were about leaving the house when a ‘thought struck Nathan, and bidding his,com- panion wait for bim, he went back to the room, Motioning to Mrs, Hunt, he drew her out into the hall, where, taking from his pocket the letter Lamia had received at the post-office, he gave it to her, saying’ as be did so: ‘Mrs, Hunt, here is the letter that brought the territle news to Miss Letson, I think you had better destroy it, or at any rate keep it from the young lady for a day or two, uuless she demandsit of you. Anyhow, read it your- self, Under the circumstances this is justifia- ble.” ‘** Perhaps.” ‘Positively itis. In it you will find mention of one Mr, Danton, whom, it says, Mr, Letson amuade his attorney before he died, This person bas arrived bere, and, to be honest about it, I do not like the man. He may be all he claiis, and may bave the power he asserts, but I think it best to warn Lamia not to place too much confidence in him at first, and above all things not to give bim any more power than he now holds,” i ‘‘T am obliged to you, Mr, Nathan, for this caution, Iam sure,” said Mrs, Hunt, in response to that. “I will tell Lamia what you have said,” “Understand me,” Nathan urged, ‘I do not say anything further than that I do not like ‘this man’s looks, Ido not know him, never saw him before in my life, and it is mainly for that reason I would urge caution in dealing with bim.” ‘*T see how it is, of course.” That was all, and the two men passed out, the housekeeper closing the door after them, Acting upon Nathan’s suggestion, Mrs, Hunt stopped in the hall and read the letter before re- ‘turning to the room, ‘* There is no doubting it,” she said to herself, “’ Whether right or wrong, Mr, Letson certainly gave this man power before he died, according ‘to this.” Putting the letter into her pocket, she went jack into the room where Lamia lay, to find the girl again in tears, and it was a considerable time before she could calm ber, Meantime Nathan and Brett, on leaving the house, had made their way toward the hotel, talking, ‘‘ lm glad we've got a chance for a few words together, Brett,” Nathan observed, ‘* The deuce is going to be to pay here, I am afraid.” “Tr looks like it, that’s so. Do you suppose this man Danton is armed with the power the jetter ascribes to him? Can it be that Letson knew him before, and so seut for him?” “'There’s no doubt about the fact of the mat- ter, I guess,” rejoined Nathan, “ How it came about I am not prepared to say. But I shall have an interview with the man, and that will bring everything out and show me just what is what,” : “If he demands the mine you'll havé to sur- render,” “ Possession is a big point; you don’t want to forget that.” ‘ ‘True; but, fron: all accounts, Don Danton is a terror, and will stand no trifling.” ‘¢There’li .be no trifling, Brett,on my part, you bet!” 4¢ What do you mean?” Don Danton, the Gent from SPEED iy On is what I mean, If I can win the girl over to my side, by any means, I may be able to do it,” ** And if not—” “Then I must try some other plan, By the way, bave you beard anything further from that Denver party?” ‘There may be a letter at the office now. The last I heard they were about to send a man to look at the mine.” ‘*¢ And it isn’t any more than half-prepared for them, is it?” s No; too confounded bad that I put it off.” ‘* Tt can be done to-night, or some other night before their man comes, provided I hold my grip on the Sweetheart.” ‘*T am of the opinion that it must be done to- night or not at all.” * And why?’ *¢ Because Don Danton is here,” ‘* Rest easy about that. He will have no sus- picion,” ‘* Why, you just now said it depended upon your holding possession yourself!” “T know I did; but on second thought I do not think it will make any difference. He will not spend his nights watching the mines,” ‘“‘ That 1s true enough; but it must be done this night, for the man may come at any moment, For tbe matter of that, ho may be here now; may have come by the stage.” ‘““That’s so, Well, do it to suit yourself,” ‘* Dll see to it to-night. You see that every- thing is left clear for me at your mine,” “Yes, I'll take care of that part of it. Here we are at the post-office; let us see if we have any mail.” They entered, and both received letters, Stopping to open and read them there, an ex- clamation presently escaped Brett, ‘* What is it?” asked Nathan, ‘* Here’s one from the Denver men, and their man started on the day this was written. Would- n’t wonder if he’s here now.” *¢ Does it give his name?” ‘¢ Howard Royland.” ‘*Ten to one he was the rooster who was on top with Danton.” Vhen Nathan had finished his letters they went out, crossed to the Merry Monarch and en- tered there, As they did so the proprietor ad- dressed Brett. ‘*Hal there you are, Mr, Brett,” he said. ‘Here is a gentleman that wants to see you. This is Mr. Brett, the manager of the Wonder, heey He is the man you are looking or. ‘‘Mr, Brett, delighted to know you,” cried Royland, coming forward in bis brisk way, with extended hand, ‘ Presume you are expecting me, Iam the man sent up from Denver to look at the Wonder Mine in the interest of the in- tending buyers. How d’e do,” CHAPTER VII, AN AGREEABLE SURPRISE, THE two shook bands warmly, and usual re- marks were exchanged in the way of mutual in- troduction, “Well, we'll go to my room,” said Brett, presently. ‘‘ Bridgelow, send up some cigars and a couple of bottles of wine, will you” ‘¢ Yes, Ill send you the best ve got,” was the landlurd’s response, ‘ Here, you Ben!” to his boy; ‘‘ get a move on ye, now, and carry these up to Mr. Brett’s room,” Brett led the way and conducted his guest up-stairs to his room, and the boy was not far behind them with the bottled sociability. In a few minutes they were comfortably seated and smoking. ‘** Well, you want to know about the mine, of course,” Brett opened the subject for discus- 810n, ‘ ‘** Yes, I must have all the particulars about it, Isuppose. Iam to make a general report when i return, upon its history as well as its value,” “T see, I tell you, Mr. Royland, this mine is a bargain, for somebody, and it is that very fact that: makes it look suspicious, I bave done my best to induce the owners to hold fast to it.” ‘Then you are not an owner yourself, eh!” “Well, I have an interest, but not a control- ling one, and you see it is all the barder for me ‘ give itup. 4 know the Wonder for just what it is,” ‘* The others are determined to sell, then?” ‘“* Yes, pig-headed and blindly determined to close out,’ ‘** What is their reason?” “That is the natural question, and it is easily answered, You see, the two men who hold the 4¢T must hold that mine at all hazards—that ; lion’s share of the stock have had a falliog out, Denver. 5 over a love affair, and are at dagger’s points with each other.” ‘* Ha! a woman in the case, eh?” *“ Ags you might besure., I tell you, Mr, Roy- land, this world would be a fine place if there was no women to keep us in hot water.” ‘*You may be right, Mr, Brett; but, where the deuce would we fellows be if there were no women?” ‘* Hal ha! ha! That’s so! ing about the mine.” ‘* Yes; pardon my interruption.” ‘* The digression was mine, As I was saying, they are bad friends now, and as they will not agree upon anything like a compromise the mine has to be sold, They will be sorry for it in six months’ time, I know, but they ure determined, It is rough on me, for 1 would like to hold on,” * Couldn’t such an arrangement be made?” ‘*T bardly think so. The buyers will want it free and clear, or not at all, as is usually the case,” : ‘* Yes, I suppose so,” ** So, you see, I am forced to a thing I don’t like. Well, then, here is a mine that is second to none in this section, offered for sale for almost a song. One hundred thousand dollars is all that is asked for a property that, in less than a year, properly worked, will be worth a cool million. tell you, Royland, it is a shame to see it sold when we five who hold it now might reap our fortune in a brief time,” ‘LT agree with you. Itis the very fact that itis for sale that makes buyers suspicious, for this place of Kickapoo has got a name in the market,” “You bet it has, No wonder, either, Look at the Sweetheart, a mine that is not beginning to yield yet, turning out a princely percentage; and I give you leave to compare the ore of the Wonder with it,” ‘‘Hrom what you say, I have no doubt but I shall be able to {report higbly in favor of your mine, Mr, Brett. 1 bope so, anyhow.” ‘‘] know you will, if you are fair with us, I want you to give it a thorough investigation, and render your report in exact accordance, We ask no favors at all, for we know the mine,” ‘It is too late to do anything to-day, of course,” ‘* Decidedly, Supper will soon be ready, and then night will be at hand shortly after. No; we'll take in the sights of the camp this even- ing, if you are inclined, and to-morrow you may begin your work,” ‘“*That suits me, No use going to the mine to crawl around in the dirt unless I go to work, and it won’t pay to dress for such a visit to-night, To-morrow will be all in season,” So they talked on, Brett giving further par- ticulars of no interest to us, and finally drifting to other subjocts, Meanwhile the elegantly-dressed sport, Deli- cate Don, had returned to the bar-room with Tom Trump, entering shortly after Brett and Royland went up-stairs, The detective cast glances around the room, and seeing Woolfe Nathan, went forward to where be was seated and addressed him. ‘* Your nome is Woolfe Nathan, I believe?” he said, P “That is my name,” was the response; ‘ but, how did you know it?’ ‘*T guessed who you were, when we exchanged some remarks a little while ago,” ‘You seem to be good at guessing, then, Sit down, for | suppose you want to talk busi- ness with me,” ‘That is the case, exactly,” the detective ad- mitted, as he sat down, “I have already in- formed you concerning the business that has brought me here,” * Yes: with the letter that came to Miss Let- son mentioning you. Well, Mr, Danton, what (lo you purpose doing in the matter?” [should rather look for an answer to that question from you,” * ‘* Well, this is no time to mince matters, as you will admit,” ‘*T am glad you see it in that light,” ‘You have not shown me your authority. I suppose you are prepared to do so before we go further,” Without answer in words, the detective took his paper {rom his pocket and gave itinto Na- than’s band, then leaned back in his chair to await its reading, Nathan opened it and read it carefully. ‘* There seems to be nothing wrong about this,” he admitted, when he had dove, folding it and handing it back. ‘\It is just what it appears,” Danton assured, ‘fand genuine, If you know anything about the But, we were talk-
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nf 4 cs . 6 Don Danton, the Gent from Denver, reputation of Don Danton, you could not think otherwise.” ‘Certainly not; but, there are other points to be considered. I was left in charge by Job Let- son when he went away, and I must be formally discharged before I can give up the mine to an- other.” * That is all right. You see, [ am in position to discharge you, for I am, as it were, Letson himself, in law,” ** You lack one thing.” ‘“ What is that?” ‘* Possession,” ‘Then you mean to fight it, do you?” **T do not intend to give up without a strug- gie. You cannot dismiss me till you are in ac- tual possession of the property.” **] am in possession already, in law.” **Yet I am in possession in fact, and hold about nine points the advantage over you.” “Well, I think there is nothing more to be said, if that is your determination in the matter, I certainly mean to carry out what I have under- taken,” ** Have you seen Miss Letson?” “No; and it is not necessary that I should, so far as my authority goes, Sho holds the same relation to the property now as she did when her father was living. I am given full power,” “ Still, you might consult her out of courtesy.” ‘* You need not remind me of what my duties of civility are, sir,” “Tl am about to remind you of something else, You will find that Miss Letson has a will of her own, ‘** A poor woman she'd be if she hadn’t.” ‘“And I thiak she'll use it, too, She knows me, and [ have no doubt that she will desire me to continue in the office I now hold.” “Tf so, possibly her desire can be gratified, Mr. Nathan. The mine will still require a manager, and there is no reason why you may not continue on in the office, for a time, any- how.” This proposition took the man somewhat aback, ‘*'You can’t mean that, can you?” he ques- tioned, doubtingly. “Of course | mean it,” was the assurance, **T shall make no changes immediately.” “Well, that puts a new face on the matter, Mr, Danton. May I speak to youa little in con- fidence?” ** Suit yourself about that.” “The fact of the business is, I hope to marry Lamia Letson one of these days, and want tocon- jo Se at the mineand hold myself in her good will, ‘*There’s nothing out of the way in an ambi- tion of that sort, Don’t imagine for a moment that I am going to interfere in your love affairs, I oe ron succeed in your 3uib,” “Well, by thunder! this is better of you than I dreamed of,” “You are willing to acknowleige my authority, then, and yield up the mine without ree me to the necessity of fighting for it, are you ‘* Yes, and I’ve no more to say now. I ex- pected to be pitched out neck and heels, and ’'m agreenbly surprised, You have done the fair “hing Danton, and I'll not forget it, Come, let's take something,” CHAPTER VIII. AT MISS LETSON’S COTTAGE, EMPLOYED as foreman atthe Little Sweet- heart Mine was a young man named John Hinyon, He was sober and industrious, about twenty- six years of age, of good figure and rather at- tractive in looks and general appearance. This man and Woolfe Nathan were not on friendly terms, and, could Nathan have had his way about it, Hinyon would have been dismiss- ed and sent adrift with short notice long ago, Job Letson, however, favored the young man, and seemed to like hint, so his position was secure in spite of all Nathan could say or do against him. Hinyon had a friend at court, to Jet the secret out;and that friend was Lamia Letson. The truth of the matter was, both Hinyon and Nathan were attentive to the young lady, and of the two, Hinyon was the more favored, {t was this that had made the bad feeling that existed between them, and it was not likely to become any better as time passed, There was every reason for ths breach to widen, On this day, when work at the mine stopped and the men were on their way to their various places of habitation, John Hinyon learned for the first that Job Letson was dead, Changing his ditection immediately upon hearing this said news, he want to the Letson cottage, knocking for admittance at a side door, He had heard also, of course, of Lamia’s faint- ing in the street upon receipt of the news, As soon as the door was opened by the house- keeper, he inquired: ** How is Lamia?” ** Oh, she is much better, now, John,” was the response, ‘* Come in.” He entered, and found himself in the presence of the sorrowing girl, who now had control cver her emotions, * Lamia,” he spoke; advancing with frankly extended hand, ‘‘I bave just heard aboutit, I am more sorry for you than I can express in words, God knows,” She took his hand, ‘*Isn’t it terrible, John,” she remarked, not questioningly. ‘‘I thought it would kill me, at first. Sit down, for I want to talk to you a little. You are like a brother to me.” The young man sat down, and Lamia con- tinued. ** There will be changes at the mine, now, of course. Papa has appointed a man to actin bis place, and he is aiready here, Of course he will take charge of the mine, and I want to ask you if you desire to stay at the mine any longer.” ‘ Of course I[ desire to stay,” was the answer, ‘*Tam glad of it. I am going to do what I can to have you promoted, now, to the place held by Mr, Nathan.” . ‘Is he going away?” in some surprise, ‘* Yes, if I can bring itabout. It isa change father contemplated making very soon anyhow,” ‘¢ You surprise me,” ‘* Tt need not surprise you, for you know father did not like him any too well, while he has been pleased with ie more and more ever since you came here, am speaking to you plainly, you e,? ‘“Well, it will be an agreeable change, of course, and 1 promise you I will do my very best to—” **Of course you will, It cannot be as I say, however, for according to what I learn, that Mr. Danton whom papa appointed has full power, just the same as if he were papa himself.’ ‘*Danton, you say!” ** Yes; I believe it is Detective Don Danton.” “Tf that is the case, you may rest assured that he will do justice all around,” So I think. He has not been to see me yet but I suppose he will come, and when he does I will speak to him about you, and—” A knocking at the front door interrupted, ‘* Who can that be, Aunt Hannah?” the young lady asked, quickly, ‘*Pii soon see, my child,” was the response. ‘¢ Perhaps 1t is the gentleman now,” She went to the door, and a man’s voice was heard, When the housekeeper returned to the room, the dainty detective followed her in, ‘¢This is Miss Letson, sir,” said Mrs, Hunt, by of introduction, he detective bowed. ** Miss Letson,” he spoke, ‘‘I came here this afternoon, the bearer of sad news for you; but there was a messenger even more speedy than I, You have mv sincerest sympathy in your hour of trouble. My name is Donald Danton, and I have been appointed proprietary attorney, to call it that, of your father’s interests,” *T am glad to know you, Mr. Danton,” the young lady responded. ‘Be seated, if you lease, But, first let me introduce Mr, John Tinyon, a foreman in father’s mine,” The introduction was acknowledged, and Deli- cate Don sat down. ‘* Everything that was your father’s is now in my bands,” he said, ‘‘I have full power, the same as he had himeéelf, It is, however, con- ditional, The condition is, that yoy are to have one-half of the profits of the mine, or one-half of the price it brings, if I see fit to sell it.” ** But, you will not sell?” ‘No, notif it will pay better to werk it; and certainly not if you prefer to keep it. I will be guided maiuly by your wishes, rerardless of my authority, when they do not conflict with your best interests,” “Thank you, Mr, Danton, I am satisfied to have itso, Father read much about you in the papers, and often spoke of you asa prince among men—pardon me; and I am svre he acted for the best in placing his interests in vour hands, Yon will assume charges at once, of course.” ‘To-morrow, Miss Letson,” ‘** And you will, of course, make changes,” “Not immediately, 1 prefer to let things run as now until I am able to get a thorough acquaintance with every detail,” ‘Do you intend to retain Mr. Nathan?” *] have had a talk with bim, and for the present he is toremain,” ** Very well, I suppose you knovrbest. I have a request to make, however, when you are ready to make a change there,” Danton looked a little surprised. “* What is it?” he asked. “That when you remove Mr. Nathan you will put Mr, Hinyon in his place.” The detective eyed the young man keenly for a moment, and then demanded: “Do you think you are qualified to fill that position, sir?” Lamia spoke up quickly before he could reply. ‘* Father considered him so, Mr. Danton,” she said, ‘‘and was going to make the change very shortly.” ‘Tf that is the case, then,” Danton rejoined, ‘it. shall be as you wish. For the present, however, Mr, Hinyon, continue where you are,” ‘* Very well, sir,” was the civil response, Hiuyon rose, then, making the excuse that he had not had supper, and took bis leave, When he had gone the detective spoke again. ‘* Your father, then, contemplated the re- moval of Mr, Nathan, did he?” he observed. ‘* Yes;” the answer, ‘‘ Father had grown to dislike him; in fact he never liked him very well, and the change would have been made in a short time had father not been disabled by his. fall.” ‘““Tam sorry I did not know of this sooner, for I have promised the man to retain him for the present. However, by the first of the com- ing month I can make such changes as I see tit to make, without going back on anything I have pledged.” wou must use your own discretion, of course, sir,” ** Yes, 1 must do that, but your wishes shal} be regarded as far as possible, But, I did not intend to trouble you with business at this time, Miss Letson—” ‘* Tt was my own doings, sir,” ‘‘Thank you, I came here merely to pay my respects to you, and to offer you my help in any way that it might be needed, In my position I must speak plainly, Miss Letson, Is there any~ thing Peon do for you?” ‘No, sir; not that I can think of at present.” ‘Are you— I speak as your father’s repre- sentative, you know; are you in need of money for present use?” ‘* Not at all, sir, thank you,” was the answer. ‘* Let business matters take the regular course, and carry out father’s wishes regarding me, that will do,” ‘* That shall be done, most assuredly.” ‘* You intend remaining here, I suppose?” ‘* Wor the present,” ‘Then, of course, you will call again, and if there is anything about which I can inform yor I shall be glad to do so,” Danton took this as his signal to go, and after a few minutes further talk, of no moment to oa phi took his departure, returning to the otel, ‘*Complications are arising already,” he mut- tered as he went along. ‘‘It seems this John Hinyon holds first place in Miss Letson’s regard, and that she means to push his interests, ell, we'll see how it works.” CHAPTER IX. DELICATE DON WORSTED, PERHAPS it has been mentioned that the ‘Best Hand” was the leading saloon at this. camp of Kickapoo, It was a Jive resort of its kind, and the chief attraction of the place when work was done an@ night opened for pleasure and dissipat‘on, here was an attractive bar, a dancing floor and a string band of one fiddler, and in the rear a gaming den that was usually well patronized, where many a miner dropped the hard earnings of a week in less than an oor It was about nine o’clock on the evening fcl- lowing events in order when Delicate Don and his man Trump entered the saloon. There wasa big crowd, as there was every night, and dancing was going. ov, Plenty of women were present, ready to trip the light fan- tastic with anv one who wanted a partner. — Delicate Don and Tom Trump passed just within the door and looked around upon the scene for rome moments before venturing fur- ther, While they stood thus, Woolfe Nathan came un and accosted Don, ‘Well, vou have dropped in to see the ele- phant, ek?’ he remarked, “Yes,” responded the detective: ‘‘ and it seems: to ba a pretty good sized one, too,” **Tt is, and as lively as it is big. By the way,. ; |
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eS ae Eee _ if the ore of the Wonder is not up 7 Mr. Danton, I take this man to bea friend of yours, sesing him with you a good deal,” He indicated Tom Trump as be spoke, ‘“‘He is in my employ,” Danton answered, “His name is Trump. Tom, let me introduce ou to Mr, Nathan, manager of the Sweetheart ine, Tom Trump touched his hat respectfully, with an awkward attempt at a bow, and Nathan ex- tended his hand to him, ‘‘In your employ did you say, Mr. Danton?” Nathan asked the next moment, turning to the natty detective. ‘‘- Yes; Lintend to make a place for him at the Sweetheart as soon as I can do 80 satisfuac- torily.” * Hal is that so? I think I can give youa pointer.” ‘* Very likely you are able to do so.” ‘* Let’s sit down back here,” They went to a table and took seats, and there Nathan explained what he had in mind, ‘* You see,” he said, ‘t there is a young fellow at the :nine, bolding the post of what you might call assistant superintendent, and one who is not worth his salt, Only for Letson I would have bounced him long ago.” ** What is his name?” ** John Hinyon.” ** And you think that would be the place for my man Trump, do you?” ‘¢ That is just what I was going to propose, I will get rid of the fellow in the morning, and your man can take the place.” Delicate Don smiled, ‘¢ We must go a little slower than that, Mr, Nathan,” he said. “If Mr. Letson liked the man he must have had some good reason for keeping kim, and as [ am in his boots now, so to say, I must follow his plans as closely as I can,” “Then you don’t want him discharged?” ‘Not at once, We'll give him a chance first, and I'll study bim a little.” “That's a bad thing to do, You ought to begin by making a clean sweep right at the start.” “Would you be of the same mind were I to begin with the manager? You ought to have the same regard for the men as for yourself,” ‘6 My office is different,” was the response, though the man flushed a little, ‘I gave satis- faction to Mr. Letson, and have managed the mine well during bis absence, I have a rigbt to more consideration.” ‘Well, we will not discuss it further now. Do not take action regarding the young man until I give you leave, anyhow.” “Then [ may as well resign my office as manager, Mr. Danton, if I am not to be manager in fact,” ** You may do soif you want to. Do not for- get that I stand in the position of owner of the mine, and that I intend to have it managed ac- cording to my own will.” There was a moment of silence, “Oh, well, [am not so foolish as to let so small a matter make trouble between us, Mr. Danton,” Nathan presently said, ‘* We'll let it drop, and of course I must respect your direc- tions or step down and out, Hello, here comes Mr, Brett, of the Wonder Mine, with the expert who bas come to examine it,” These two bad just came out from the gaming- room, and Natban signaled to them to come over to where be sat. They came, and introductions followed, It was not necessary, of course, to introduce Denton Don and Howard Royland, since they had been traveling companions. All found seats around the table, wine and cigare were called for, and when they were brought, nearly all partook liberally of them. ‘* Mr, Royland is going to test the ore of the Wonder to-morrow,” Brett presensly remarked, ‘*T hope he will find it satisfactory,” observed Nathan, ‘** No fear on that score,” was the rejoinder, * And I have a favor to ask of you, Mr. Nathan,” Brett said further. “ A favor?” “ Yes,” “Well, you know you have only to name it.” “When Mr. Royland has satisfied himself with the Wonder, I would like to have him test the ore of the Sweetheart and compare the two mines, Your mine is considered second to none here,” ** Why, certainly he is welcome to do so, so far as Tam concerned, You have no objections, Mr. Danton?” **None whatever?” “Then we'll do it,” decided Brett. ‘ And, to that of the Sweetheart I stand ready to treat all around,” “From all that is said, so much in favor of the Wonder, I anticipate being able to make a splendid report in its favor,” observed Royland,’ ‘** We look for nothing else,” declared Brett. “Why, here is Mr, Nathan, he is well aware what kind of a mine it is; ask him what he thinks about it,” ‘*T ain satisfied already,” Royland assured, ‘Pll let the work of to-morrow prove. Of course assaying will be only a matter of form, the mine being so well known for just what it it. F There was more talking, much more, but none of vital interest to us, so it may be passed over, Tom Trump had felt that he wasrather out of place here, he being only a common miner and clad in rough attire, while these four men were well dressed, He had little or nothing to say, nothing was said to him, and finally be got up and said he thought he would go out and look around a little by himself, as he felt more at home ia rougher company. He was excused, of course, the spruce detec- tive reminding him to be on hand at the mine in the morning. After he had gone, the others finally repaired to the gaming room, whero they remained a long time. The hour was late when they came out, and they paused at the bar for a social good-night. While they were there a great, bearded fellow strode up to Delicate Don and gave him a slap on the neck with no gentle force, The dainty detective turned in an instant, “What do you mean by that, you ruffian?” he cried, “Tt means that right hyar is what kin chaw you all up!” was the fellow’s cry. As he said so, he placed himself in fighting at- titude, brushing his fist under Delicate Don's nose, ‘You had better have a care,” warned the detective, as coolly as possible. ‘‘I guess you do not know who I am, do you?” ‘* Reckon I jest do, then,” was the retort. * You ar’ Dou Danton, ther great detective, who has ther reppytashun of bein’ able ter lick anything what wears boots,” * You do know me, then, do you? And you think you can whip me, do yon? Well, now, I care nothing about claiming championship, and I'm willing to acknowledge tnat you are the better man,” ‘Ho, ho! That’s one way ter crawl out of et, that ’ar is. But, et won’t work fer a cent. I’ve come hyer ter lick ye, and I’ve got ter do et. Dve made a bet that I kin lick Delicate Don, and I’m goin’ ter win et. No use yer bangin’ back now, 80 step right up and take yer medicine,” ** Ajl right, if you are bound to have it,” “And lam, ye kin jest bet yer boots on’t.” The sport detective stepped forward and put up his arms, and the two men came to blows im- mediately. How it happened no one could rightly tell, but somehow Delicate Don got the worst of it in a few ssconds. Did he slip? or was this burly fellow really the better man? Be that as it may, the dainty detective was suddenly lifted from the floor, and, after a brief struggle, was sent flying half-way across the room, where he fellin a half-dazed condition, His friends sprung to his aid, and when next they looked his assailant had disappeared. CHAPTER X, _ CHIN CHOP AND TERRY ‘‘ EXHIBIT,” Cain Cuyop, the Chinaman, and Terry, his keeper, at their hotel, were still carrying on their unique farce, to the amusement of the patrons of that establishment. The Celestial was doing his best to beat his watchfui guardian and get a pull at the coveted bottle, while Terry was fully determined not to give him the chance to impose upon bim the fine of a dime, After supper on this evening of which we write the peculiar pair left the hotel and went for a walk about the camp, and did not return until well along in the evening. When they did return they came in with a rusb, the Chinaman some seconds ahead. He sprung to the bar and pantingly de- manied: ‘¢ Give me dlink—quick !” Out came the bottle and glass, and the Ce- lest pl poured himself a dram with nervous haste. Before he had time to lift it to his lips, how- ever, into the room rushed the breathless Terry, who, giving the glass a knock, sent it to the floor. ‘* Nixey, begob!” ‘* Please, Telly, just one dlink,” Chin Chop begged. “And ante up me tin cints? Well, I guess nor. You fork out the tinner Oi have just earned, uv ye pl’aze.” ‘*Me allee samee givee you fifty cents, you lettee me dlink one giass,” begged the thirsty Chinee. ‘ Be good boy, allee samee, Telly.” “Ym always a good boy, Chopsey, old hoss. You hired me for to kape you from drinkiog, and, begob! Oi’m goin’ to doit, you Let! Oi’m good fur dat, every toime!” ‘‘ Bat, me say me givee you fifty cents,” ‘‘ Yis: and ye got wan taste dhe divil couldn't be stoppin’ av ye till ye had got back che fifty cints and spoilt me fur a dime bevides,” ‘* No; allee samee bonest—” ‘Oh, Oi know ye, Chopsey; Oi know ye.” ‘‘ But, me must have one dlink, else me die, vely sure,” ‘* Begob, thin, ye will have to be afther dyin’, dhat’s all, fur never a smell] do ye get if Oi can help it.” ** Only one—” ‘Not a half a wan. Fork over dhe dime,” Terry stood with hand out, and reluctautly the Chinaman gave him the dime and paid for the drink he had not enjoyed, The crowd laughed, and one fellow, for the sake of s eing the fun carried further, proposed to treat the Chinaman, and invited him up, Chin Chop was at the bar with a single leap, smacking his lips in happy anticipation of what was coming. Now he was sure of a drink, * Was he? ‘“Now, Chopsey,” called out Terry, ‘it’s tin cints fur you or me, wan or dhe otber av vs, and begob Oi’m looking fur Terrence McCune, every toime,” “No, Telly, no; this time no countee,” Chin Chop protested.” “The dickens it don’t!” cried Terry. ‘* Ain’t you afther thrying fur a nip av dhe craythurf And av Oi ch’ate ye out av it won’t dbat be tin cints to me credit? Oi guess it will.” At this the crowd began to take sides wifh one or the other, some urging the Celestial to po on and take the drink, and others advising Terry to see that he didn’t get it and so win his dime, “You lettee mo go this one time, Telly,” pleaded Chin Chop, ‘‘ Me no do it allee +amee by own self’; me gottee tleat. Metakee no more, you bettee,” ‘* Nixey. Fork over yer tin cints, and come away from dhere,” * Down with et,” some onecriei out. ‘‘ He can’t stop ye vow, Yaller.” Terry vroduced an old single-barreled pistol from somewhere under bis coat, and leveled it at the Celestial. ‘““Chopsey, ye know better nor dhat,” he warned, ‘* Put down dbe glass, or by dhe pow- ers av punk av Oi don’t probe a hole in ye dhat won't heal upin - wakes,” ‘*No shootee, Telly, no shootee!” cried the Chinaman, as be put down the glass and made @ hasty retreat, ‘‘Oi thought Oi’d bring ye to terms,” Terry declared, ‘Ante up dhe dime, now, and dhen sit down and behave yersel’,” The Chinaman made haste to comply, civing the lad the ten cents he bad earned, and taking a seat, but not without a wistful look at \be bar, ‘That's what I’d call a darn shame,” growled the man who had offered the fieedrink. ‘‘ Now Ihave got ter get away with both of these byer glasses meself—” ‘Not er tall necessary,” cried out a dozen voices at once, ‘ \Vull, mebby not, but Vil do et jest ter save any hard feelin’s, ye know. But etar’ a darn shame. Hyer this poor Chinee can’t git a chance ter wet his whistle er tall, nohow,” ‘*Me gettee chance by’m by,” Chin Chop vowed, “ies ter be: hoped ye will, b’mighty. Yer will ’arn et, that’s sure.” The peculiar compact between the two had been fully explained, and the crowd was able to appreciate the situation fully, There was a good deal of talk among the crowd, and a good many jokes were cracked at Chin Chop’s expense, Terry coming in for yis share with the rest. After a time Chin Chop got upand passed out of the saloon by a rear door, sete Terry looked after him for a moment, but did not follow atonce. He lovked as if he was puzzled,
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> PE : PF ie w <] be SS oi a Me Bo i i ns Ag ‘¢Phwere has he gone to, Oi wonder?” he pres- ently muttered. ‘* Fai me lad, he has given ye the slip this time,” cried the bartender, ‘*He’s made a dodge for some other saloon,” said one man, ‘‘and he'll come back as full as a tick.” ** Not av Oi know it he won't!” cried Terry. Up he got and ran out the way the Covlestial had gone, to the laughter of the crowd. No sooner had he disappeared than Clin Chop sprung in at the front doorand made a single tride to the bar, ‘* Givee me bottle, quick!” be cried. ‘Here you are, and you’) better be lively.” The bartender put the bottle and glass out in haste. Chin Chop caught up the bottle, and like a flash it disappeared under his peculiar coat, ** Nothel bottle, quick,” he cried. ‘* Me pay, allee samee me foole blame boy this timee. Say how muchee, quick,” The crowd laughed louder than ever, seeing the Celestial’s game, Another bottle was put out, and Chip Chop hurriedly paid the amount demanded. Barely bad he done this, and poured outa glass of the stuff, when Terry came dashing back into the room. The louder laugbing had, it was guessed, given _him warning of the Chinaman’s return, and he 8 made haste to block his game. But Terry was too late this time, for before he could reach the bar the wily Chinee put the glass to his lips and drained it at a gulp. The crowd was wild, now, and enjoyed the fun immensely. ‘Oi call dbat a m’ane thrick av ye, Chopsey,” Terry complained, ‘*' You owe me ten cents,” was the response. **You better pay him, quick,” ** Yes, Oi’ll pay, fur it’s as fair wan way as dhe other,” Terry promptly offered; and he aid. Pe Now me wantee no more,” declared Chin Chop. ‘‘ Come, let us goto bed, Telly, Me allee samee vely sleepy now.” At this the crowd went off again, Terry now began to suspect something, evi- dently, and looked around, As said before, the crowd had divided, some being for him and some for the Celestial. ‘‘ Feel in their yaller’s coat,” some fellow call- ed out, ‘* He’s got a bull bottle of et stowed away thar,” exclaimed another, ‘*No, Telly; po, no!” cried Chin Chop, wav- ing the lad off, ‘‘’Melican man he foolee you.” *Mebby be does,” cried Terry, ‘but begob Oi know a Chinaman dhat won’t fool me fur long. Have you got a bottle hid about ye?” ‘* Allee samee me honest Injun, evely time. Me no gottee bottle, you bettee. You stay here, Telly, till me gosesa man, Me be light back, Mic quick,” e was backing toward the front door while speaking, and suddenly be turned and dashed out, * Oi’m right wid ye,” cried Terry, as he start- edin pursuit, ‘ I’ve got tar see dhe same fel- ler, sure,” And out he went in hot chase, The loud laughter of the crowd followed them, and those who stepped out to Jook laughed the louder when tiéy saw them going in opposite directions as fast as they cont run. No amount of shouting would stop them; Terry was deaf to all directions his friends shouted at him, aud in a moment more they had disap- peared from sight in the darkness, They had played a clever game, and were now free to de- vote themselves to other matters, When the hotel closed they had not returned to their room, and they were seen no more that night. Where were they? After the camp was asleep, three dusky fizures stood together under the deep shades of a clump of tree; ourside the camp, two of whom were Chin Chop and Terry. The third personage was ‘* Delicate” Don Dan- n, CHAPTER XI. DANTON TAKES CHARGE, A BusY place is astir early, and so it was with Kickapoo, The mines were all humming with activity be- fore the drones and late risers were out of ‘We say all the mines, but there was one ex- ception, understood, and that was the Wonder, which was not working at all. Always the first man at the Sweetheart was Jobn Hinyon, and on this occasion he was there a. A a little earlier than usual, if anything, to see that everything was in perfect order, He did not find it so. . There was much that displeased his eye, and he went about the place with a frown upon his brow, Suddenly taking leave of the Sweetheart, he went over to the Wonder and began an explora- tion that lasted quite a little time. When be returned there was a dark cloud up- on his face, which the men who bad come to work by this time were quick to notice. He said nothing, and when it wes time to begin work directed the men, It was nearly an hour later when Wolfe Nathan made his appearance at the office. Hinyon bad been watching for him, and soon presented himself bofore the manager, his face still clouded, There were no wasted words, and no civil morning greetings were exchanged between them, Hinyon came to business immediately. ‘There has been more secret work going on here, Mr. Nathan,” he announced bluntly. ‘* What do you mean?” was demanded, “You know whatI mean, I have reported only one case,” ** Well, explain yourself.” Some ore has been taken from this mine during the night, an I find it has been put in the Wonder, to salt that worthless concern,” “You bad better be careful how you make such a chargl as that, John Hinyon. Can you prove what youras ert? Who would dare to come here and steal our ore? You had better be careful, I tell you.” ** Are you going to Ist it pass again and say nothing about it?” ‘John Hinyon, see here: this mine yet. You have done your whole duty when you report these thing to me, I will not permit you to demand what Jam going todo about it. That is my business, If you take my advice you will be very careful how you make charges of this kind, You may get into trouble. Dont mention it to another soul, but leave it for me to investigate,” Without a word the young man turned and left the office, going back to his post of duty. The cloud upon his face was darker still, and there was an expression in his keen eyes that meant something. About this time Dainty Don made his first appearance from the hotel. Evidently the late hour at which he had re- tired, or the shaking up he had received at the saloon, had caused him to sleep late, When he came out, after breakfast, he found his man, Tom Trump, awaiting bim on the hotel piazza, and joined him immediately in something of an excited manner, It seemed something was wrong. ‘Tom, the deuce is to pay,” he greeted, ‘* What's the matter, boss?’ Tom asked, won- a Jam manager of ly. hy, I’ve lost the paper giving me posses- sion of the mine,” ‘‘ Whew!” the miner whistled. ‘‘That’s bad, Tallow. Whar did ye lose et?” ** That’s what I’d like to know. I missed it when I dressed, and can’t find it anywhere,” Mr. Trump scratched his head, ‘* Have ye told anybody about et?” he asked, ‘* No, not yet,” ** Then don’t mention et. Ye bave shown ther dockyment enough ter prove yer claim, and that’s all that’s needed.” **T don’t know but you're right, but stil] I want to find it, Ican’t imagine where I lost it, unless it was at the saloon last night when I had the set-to with that ruffian.” ““T heerd about that this mornin’, Mebbe it dropped out of yer pocket then and somebody picked et up.” “It must be so, Confound the fellow, it I hadn’t slipped 1 would have thrown him through a window, Perhaps it will be returned to me,” ** Anyhow, et ain’t of much ’count to anybod but the owner, so you needn’t worry about et, should say. Mebby et will show up at the right time ter prove yer claim, ef it’s questioned,” ‘Yes, perhaps, Well, let’s go to the mine.” Together they made their way to the office of the Sweetheart, Manager Nathan was there to greet Danton, and he gave,him charge of everything without reserve, You will find things pretty much as Mr. Letson left them,” he explained. “I have not meddled with any of bis things, expecting he would return.” “ll merely take a casual look around, for the present,” said Danton, ‘‘and we'll go out and look at the mine,, I can tell more in that i way, for the first work, than by looking through books and papers.” ‘‘ The cffice isn’t in a very presentable shape,” Nathan offered apology, ‘* for I don’t have the time, -I put in most of my efforts at the shaft, and there { think you will find everything in pretty good order. We’ll go out as soon as you are ready, and I’ll show you around.” Danton was soon done, He looked over Letson’s papers and books a little, and then announced himself ready. Nathan and he went out together, Tom Trump following—at Danton’s bidding; and proceeded to the mine proper, where all was bustle and activity. Here John Hinyon greeted Danton, to Nathan’s astonishment, and answered such questions as were put to bim. Nathan was not aware the two bad met before, and was surprised when he learned where they bad been introduced. Some time was spent here, but no word was passed between Nathan aad Hinyon, as the dainty detective noticed, When ready to return to the office, Danton said: ‘‘ Mr, Hinyon, come to the office with us, I have a matter cf business that requires your presence.” When they entered the cflice, and Danton and Nathan had taken seats, be said further: ‘**T am about to make a little change here, Mr, Hinyon. lam satisfied with the appearance of things under your charge, and lam going to pro- mote you—” Nathan gave a start. ‘+__'l'o the office of superintendent. My man Trump will take the place you now hold, as soon as he is sufficiently posted. You will tako pains to give bim all the insight you can, and so give him a good start.” } “Thank you, sir,” said Hinyorn, ‘I will do the best I can, and, acting in the capacity you have seen fit to name, will see that the work is carried on as now, in the best manner I am capable of directing it, I may have some les- sons to learn from Mr. Trump.” ‘‘T don’t believe I kin give ye any p’ints, | jedgin’ by what I seen at ther shaft,” Tom mod- estly declared. ‘That is all for the present,” Nathan added, “Go back to your work, and ‘see to it that every man does bis part well and to the best in- terest of the success of the mine,” Hinyon went wut, followed by Tom Trump, Danton and’ Nathan smoked and talked, the former looking further into the affairs of the office as they did so, Presently the door opened and two men came in, being Austin Brett and the young expert, Howard Royland, who were on their way to the W onder, ‘* We're goin’ to the mine,” Brett explained, “‘and thought maybe you gentlemen would like to go along with us, What do you say to it? Mr. Royland thinks he can get through in an ‘What to you say, Mr. ‘For myself, I'd rather like to go along, and think I will. Do not feel under press to go unless you want to go, You may care nothing about it,” “Tl go, certainly,” the sport detective agreed. “This will give me some mining knowledge, which is what I am after just now, They made ready in a few minutes, and all set off in the direction of the Wonder, Arriving at the shaft, lights were secured, and all entered. Here the expert was supposed to have fy] charge. CHAPTER XII, INVESTIGATING THE WONDER, AUSTIN BRETT having armed himself with a pick and some giant powder, the little company went forward into the dismal hole, “Now, Mr. Royland,” said he, stopping pres- ently, with the pick ready for business, ‘* just in- dicate your spot, and I will strike and give you azample, Anywhere-you say, now; it makes no difference to me.” ‘Let drive at the nearest point, then,” Roy- land directed, carelessly. ‘“‘ All right, bere goes,” Brett drew back the pick and attacked the wall vigorously, and in a few moments crumbled off some good sized pieces, The unsuspecting Royland had allowed him to select his own spot, There are more wily tricks in the world than the innocent ever dream of, and this was one, learn at his business yet, Brett had not spoken until he came to the very place from where he desired the first — ae Danton?” asked -_ 8 Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. ha Mr. Royland had much to # t oa
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eons Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. 9 samples to be taken. His seeming carelessness about the matter led the expert into bidding him strike anywhere, thus giving him liberty to at- tack the desired spot without any appearance of selecting. ‘‘TLere you are, sir,” Brett said, ‘Gather your samples and we'll move on,” Royland stooped and picked up some of the fragments, putting them in a bag he carried, and they went forward further, ‘Say when you want mo to strike again,” Brett presently invited. ‘‘I want to give as full and fair a showing as you can desire, We have mothing to conceal here.” ‘* Well, strike any where here, then,” the young man directed as before, Without taking another step forward Brett turned to the wall and knocked off some more chunks, this time larger ones than before. Royland here made further selections, and they continued on their way to the end of the drift, where quite a heap of ore was found, evi- dently lying just where it had been broken from the virgin rock. ‘* Now,” said Brett, here, ‘I will put ina charge of powder, and we'll retire till it goes off, and then you will be able to have a thorough idea of just what the lode is worth. Wait here just a moment and I’ll fix it.” He stepped forward, while the others natural- ly drew back to put themselves out of danger. When the charge had been placed and the fuse lighted, Brett came hurrying back to join the others, and all retired toa safe distance to await the explosion. It soon followed, and all went forward to see what had been done, A great quantity of pieces of new rock was lying around, ani Brett began gathering them up, or some of them, and throwing them in a eap. ‘* Here you are,” he remarked, ‘‘ almost balf a ton of it. Take your choice of samples, and I hops you will find them so rich that you'll sell the whole piece for us, Got enough, you say?” ‘* Yes, more than enough;” was the answer. ** T couldn’t ask a fairer showing than you have made, Mr. Brett, and it’s hardly worth the while to assay the ore; butit has to be done, of course, Shall we return?” ‘** Just as you say, sir.” ‘* Well, ’m ready. Let’s go and get out of this smoke,” There had been much more conversation all around, of course, but of no interest to us. Making their way back to the shaft, the four climbed to the top, and there the expert took a look at his specimens by sunlight, He was highly pleased with them, and so ex- pressed himself. It would not be necessary, he thought, to look further, and he was sure the sale of the mine would follow his report, Going then to the Sweetheart, a sample or two ‘was taken from there, and the expert retired to his room at the hotel to test them, He was still at work when, shortly after noon, there came a rap at the door of his room, ** Come in!” he called out, The door opened and John Hinyon ent2red, Royland remembered him immediately as a man he had seen at the Sweetheart, ‘Tam John Hinyon,” ths visitor announced, **superintendent at the Letson lode, I have come here secretly for a private word with ou. ‘That so?” spoke the expert, in somewhat of eareelee. “Sit down, What is it you have to say ‘*Have you assayed the ore from the Won- der?” ‘*Yes, and I find if excellent, fully as good as that from the Sweetheart, with which I am about done now.” **T believe it is fully as goo], sir; no better and no worse. The fact of the business is, every what you have here came from the Sweetheart ode. che Seer paled, and looked really silly for a second, ** -You—you can’t mean it?’ he gasped, “Yes, do meanit. That mine was salted, and you have been imposed upon in the worst manner,” ‘* Why, my dear sir, I can hardly believe that, 1 selected these specimens mysel!, in a baphaz- ard manner, right from the solid rock, There was no chance for a deception.” ‘*T know the ore was taken from the Sweet- heart last night, and I explored the Wonder early this morning and found it there.” “Tt seems impossible, Tell me how I have been duped. I fail to see it, and unless you can show me I cannot pin much faith to what you have said.” ‘* Well, as I was not along with you, of course it wil! be impossible to tell you just how it was done, but I may offer a guess or two, Perhaps you gave Mr. Brett leave to take the specimens from any point he pleased, At the end of the drift was a heap of old ore, with the new from the Sweetheart hid away under it, A charge of powder would soon bring the new out on top in fine style—” ‘Stop! that is enough!” cried the expert, ‘I see it now, and I will look into this thing fur- ther.” ‘‘ Tt is nothing to me,” added Hinyon, ‘ but I could not see you fooled without warning you, Please do not let out whotold you, Ibave come here by the back way, in order not to be seen.” ‘Pll say nothing about you, sir, I promise,” ‘Very well.” Hinyon went out and away at once, while the young expert sat down and tried to think it all out. Was it possiblo that he had been duped on so grand a scaleas this? It was hard to believe, and it took all the pride and self-esteem out of him. ‘‘P’'m nothing but a braying ass, after all,” he cried, bringing his fist down upon the table, ‘““They have made a fool of me in the easiest way imaginable, But, I'll show them yet!” Clearing up the dirt he had made, removing bis overalls and jacket and washing up, he was ready for dinner when the alarm was sounded, At the table he met Brett, who was eager to know how he had made out with his work, and what the result had been, Don Danton, Woolfe Nathan, and many others were present, ‘¢- Yes, I’m all done,” Royland made answer to Brett’s inquiry, ‘‘but I’m not quite satisfied et.” ‘* Not satisfied?” and a look of surprise, if not, indeed, alarm, appeared on the manager’s face, “ Why, what’s wrong?” ‘*Well, there waz too much of a sameness about the samples,” the expert answered, ‘‘T expected to findsome diffsrence in the ore from different parts of the tuanel,” “Ts that sof Well, it will be easy to fix that, sir, We will go down again, and you may select a bundred specimens, from as many dif- ferent places, I’m bound to satisfy you if T can,” Yes, we'll go down again to-morrow morn- ing,” Royland proposed. He was watching Brett narrowly, without ap- pearing to do so, and saw that he drew a breath of relief at this, “To-morrow?” Brett quickly repeated. ‘‘ Why not this afternoon? But, of course you are tired and have had enough of it for oneday, To- morrow let it be,” ‘* Judging by my work so far,” the expert then went on, ‘‘ [ think it issafeto say the ore of the Wonder is fully as good as that of the Sweet- heart. In fact, I could find no difference be- tween them,” As he said this he looked Brett full in the face, That gentl>man met his gaze without waver ing, cheerfully responding: “JT was sure of it, sir, I knew the Wonder was as good as any of them, Hope your next assay will pan even better, We'll make it a thorough one, anyhow.” And so, for the time being, the matter was dropped, After dinner was over, Brett and Nathan wont off in the direction of the Sweetheart, talking earnestly together, - The afternoon passed without excitement of any kind so far as concerned those in whom we have interest, and evening came on, the night opening for another round of the usual pleasure and dissipation incident to mining life, CHAPTER XILL DETECTIVE DON IS LET INTO THE SECRET. Tom Trump. having found that be was out of | placs at the Merry Monarch, had taken up his “Well, you are best judge of that, but I | know what [ am talking about, and I have come bere to give you a friendly tip in order that you might not be imposed upon and so ruined for life in your business prospects.” ** How do you know this?” Royland asked ex- citedly, quarters at one of the other hotels. After supper he went over to the Monarch for the purpose of seeing his employer, and found him in the bar-room enjoying a cigar, for the moment alone. He seemed glad to see his man Trump. ‘Hello, Tom, here you are, eh?” he greeted, ‘You did not tarry very long at this hotel.” “No,” Tom responded, as he sat down; ‘ too ~ darn high-toned fer a feller of my plain cloth and homely ways. | couldn’t bold up my end, so I dropped out, But, 1 have come over to have a talk with ye, boss,” ‘Want to see me, eh? Well, we are alone here, or nearly so, for the present; go ahead and say what you have to say.” ** All right; and ef we git interrupted you kin ask me up to,yer room, fer I think what I have got ter tell is somethin’ important.” ** Very well, Pll do that.” They were seated at a table, and Tom laid his arms upon it and leaned forward so as to speak in low tones, ““ Have ye found that ’ar paper?” be asked, ‘You haven’t learned something about that, have you?” was the counter question. “No; and I take et from that ye haven’t heerd anything about et yerself. Et is mighty queer what became of et.’ ‘* No, I haven’t seen or heard from it yet. It is deuced queer, as you say. I cannot under- stand it. That is not the only queer thing about it, however.” ‘Ts that so? What else is in ther wind?” ‘* Why, that fellow that dumped me last night has not been seen since, and no one here knows him, He wasa stranger, it seems, one who had never been seen before, far as I can learn,’ ‘¢ That is mighty strange, sureenough. What do ye make out of et?” “It puzzles me, Do you suppose he was after that paper?” ‘‘ Which is ter say—dol suppose he got et? That’s bard ter tell, Anyhow, that needn’t trouble you, boss, as long as you have got the mine.” ‘‘Hfa! ha! I don’t know but what you are right, Tom. This, however, is not what you bad in mind to say to me, is it?” “No, et ain’t, You have said you didn’t come here with the intenticn of doin’ any detec- tive work.” Delicate Dan started, ‘¢ What do you mean now, Tom?” he demand- ed, ‘““Why, just what I say, That’s what you said, ain’t et?” ‘Well, yes, that’s what I have said, and it’s about so, But, why?” ** Nothin’, only 1 bave got a little case fer ye, if ye want to work et up and unmask a bit of rascality that’s goin’ ov,” ** Ts that so?” with interest, ‘* What is it?” ‘‘T’s regardin’ that Wonder Mine,” “Yes? What about it?” “Fraud.” “A fraud! It don’t appear so, from what the expert says,” ‘‘ The expert be darn! They have put dust in his eyes, and he can’t see half-way around the corner.” \ “Explain yourself, Tom; you are talking in riddles,” ‘‘Well, what [ mean sums up to jest this: That Wonder Mine ain’t no good, but it has been salted fer all it?ll bear, with ore from our mine, and Brett and Nathan are the rascals at ther bottom of et all.” ‘You amaze me!” in genuine surprise, ** Didn’t you s’pect et?” rah oA “That’s queer, I thought sure you would smell ther mice and git onto et.” “Are you sure of what you say? Perhaps you are mistaken, It is quite a serious charge to make, you know.” Oh, Ym sure enough! I’m onto et, and so is John Hinyon. If you want ther proof, we'll jest watch ’em ter-night, fer I think they'll dose et some more.” “You surprise me. Where did you leary all this?” “Why, by keepin’ my eyes and ears wide open, They can’t fool Tom Trump much about winin’ tricks,” ‘¢ Well, well, this is something worth looking into. I bad no idea of doing any detective work hers; but, since it comes right under my nose I can’t help it.” ** And I'd like no better fun than comin’ in fer a share of et,” Trump declared, in excited manner, *‘ But, this is something new/io my line, Tom, and I hardiy know how to go at it.” ‘* Well, ther proof is what ye want first, and ther way ter get that, I should say, is ter watch and see et done,” “True enough, You seem to have some ideas about detective work yourself. I won’t men- tion it to any one till we get the case in our hands,” ‘* That’s ther idee, I should say.”
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4 i elit lite F M% - . Sl le fe Pak eI, LE OR ees RET AST silane Sioeemeeddins 10 ne And then we'll spring the trap on them, eh? “You are the boss; I don’t p’tend ter know anything in sech matters.” “*T know; but this is your case and I’m will- ing to let you bave the say about it, you see,” ** Well, then, suppose we hold on and see what the expert will do about it. Iam of ther opin- ion that he smells a mice somewhere and wants ter find out jest where et is,” ‘* Why do you think that?” “Cause he wasn’t satisfied with ter-day’s work.” ‘* How came you to know that, Tom?” ** Same as [ know t’other—by keepin’ my eyes and ears open. I tell ye they don’t fool Tom Trump much about minin’ ’fairs, ef I do say et myself.” **T begin to believe you are right.” **'Ye see be had every chance ter prove ther mine ter-day, and his samples’ assayed high, they tell me. Ef he hadn’t some s’picions he’d be satisfied, wouldn’t he? Ish’d reckon so,” “Tt does look that way, true enough. I am ee you opened my eyes to this thing, Tom. ow Dll tell you what you do,” ** And what’s that?” “You keep your eyes open and learn all you can,und lll remain in the background and pre- tend to know nothing about it. See?” “That will do fer ter-night; but ef you ex- pose their leetle game et won’t do fer me to push forward. Youare Delicate Don, aud you must be the one at the head of ther class, not Tom Trump.” **T see you haverightideas, Tom. Well, we'll learn what we can to-night, and act accord- ingly.” There was further talk, and while they were still in conversation a boy came in and asked the man at the bar for Mr. Danton, Delicate Don heard the inquiry and stepped forward at once. ‘* What is wanted of Mr, Danton?” he asked, “T’'m the man,” ‘* Here’s a message for you, sir,” said the boy, giving him a sealed letter, Don tore it open in haste, and found it was from Lamia Letson, who desired him to come to the cottage as soon as convenient, ‘Do you want an answer?” he asked the boy. ‘*T was told ter bring a answer if you couldn’t come,” the boy responded, ‘* Then it’s all right, and you needn’t go back, for I'll go at once. If any one asks for me, landlord, tell him I'll be back in an hour or so,” * All right, sir.” Stepping to where Tom Trump sat, then, he told him where he was going, and bade him say nothing to anybody concerning what they had been talking about. Tom nodded his head knowingly, and Danton went out, and when he had disappeared Tom nodded his head more knowingly still. W hea the sport detective reached the cottage he found there Jolin Hinyon, in the sitting-room with Lamia, **'You were prompt to come, Mr. Danton,” the young lady said, graciously. ‘‘ Be seated, please; I have sometbing important to tell you.” The detective sat down, and after some trivial remarks Lamia came to the point. * Talking with Mr, Hinyon,” she said, ‘‘ he let out something which, the next moment, he seemed to regret he had told me, it is con- cerning some irregularity that is going op at the mine,” ** Indeed?” “Yes. I wanted him to tell you, but he said no; for since he had reported it to the manager he could not do more than that. I have taken it upon myself to send for you and tell you, for I havea suspicion that Mr. Nathan is concerned in the matter.” Forthwith, then, she told him concerning the taking of ore from the Sweetheart to “‘ salt” the worthless Wonder. CHAPTER XIV. REVEALS DANTON’S PLANS, THE new proprietor of the Sweatheart listened attentively to the end, when he turned to Hin- yon, * You say you have told Mr, Nathan about this, Mr, Hinyon?” he demanded. ** Yes, sir; I have told him,” was the reply. ** What did he say? He has not told me.” ‘* Now, sir, I amin a bad situation. It was a slip of the tongue when I let out knowledge of this matter to Miss Letson, and I should not bear tales to you concerning my superior. I hope you will not question me,” “{ must insist upon an answsr to my ques- tion, sir,” urged the detective, sternly. ‘ ee eee ** Well, then, he told me, in effect, to mind my own business, He said he would attend to the matter.” ‘* Then J will see him aboutit. I will not let on how the information came to me, You need not trouble yourself further about it, Mr, Hin- yon,” ‘* T had no intention of doing so.” ** And, I will not meddle with the affairs of the Wonder, They will not trouble the Sweet- heart again, you may rely on that.” There was further talk on the matter, and Danton took his leave, ‘Things are getting interesting here,” the de- tective mused, as he went back to the hotel. ‘I wonder if just here isn’t a chance for me to make a staka out of this mining business, Let me see how it stands, . ‘* Here are men anxious to invest in a mine; the Wonder is the mine they are after; and it isn’t worth a pinch of snuff. If that state of af- fairs is exposed, what will hinder me from sell- ing out the Sweetheart at a good round figure to the same parties? ‘* By the lord Harry! 1 believe it is just my chance, I must work it, too, and make hay while the sun shines. Iam going to getrid of the mine sooner than I thought, if I manage things right. What do I want with a mine, anyhow? My little game is going to work like a charm, if I handle itright. But, what of Nathan?” He was thoughtful, ‘** He is not in it,” he soon decided. “If he is implicated in the fraud, this will be my time to dispose of him for geod, He'll have to suffer, thatisall, Ha! ba! Don Danton did not come here with the idea of doing detective work, but it seems he bas got to turn his hand to it any- how. There will bea surprise for somebody when the exposure is made—” . He broke off suddenly and was thoughtful again, ‘*T won’t bave to do anything, however,”. he reflected. ‘If the expert finds out the cheat, and he is in a fair way for it, that will settle the business, and no doubt the fellows, afraid of arrest, will get out as soonasthey can. Then will be the time for me to bring the Sweetheart to the notice of the capitalists, and there is no doubt but they will buy it. Don Danton, you are in luck, sure enough,” Reaching the hotel, he found his man Trump where he bad Jeft him. “* What do you suppose was wanted, Trump?” he said, taking his seat at the table again. “Tf I knowed where ye have been, I might give a guess,” was the man’s reply to the ques- tion. ‘* Well, it was Miss Letson who sent for me, and she wanted to give me the same information you had just disclosed to me.” “That was et, eh? Then I s’pose Hinyon told her. Hinyon is ruther sweet in that direction,” “Tsee he is, You seem to know a little of everything about Kickapoo, Tom, short as has been your time here,” “Tis by keepin’? my eyes and ears open, as I told ye, boss.” re ? believe you. Keep right on keeping them open, for it won't do any harm for us to know what is going on.” **Not a bit. Well, what are ye goin’ ter do about et, boss?” “ Why, I’ve been thinking it over, Tom, and I don’t believe itll be necessary for us to do any thing.” “ You think ther expert will expose ther thing and that'll be ther end of et, do you?” “JT see youare a shrewd fellow, Tom. Yes, that is the idea.” ** Well, mebby he will; but I doubt et.” ‘* What do you mean now?” *“*T mean jert this; That young feller has got ter stand a test.” *“f don’t understand you. What are you getting at now? Won't he have a plain case?” ‘*Ther plainest kind of a.case, and that’s jest whera et will come in. When they find he’s got ’em on ther hip they’ll try ter buy him off, and I opine theyll offer big money.” ‘* Hal now I get yourmeaning. You are up in mining matters, and no getting around that. You have an idea, then, that he won’t be able to resist the temptation, P'take it, Aw 1 right?” “That’s et. If ther offer is big enough, that young feller is goin’ ter take et and give a false report, or I miss my guess, I kin sort 0’ seo et in his eye. Bad thing fer him ter do, but ’'m afeerd he'll give way and doet.” ** And in that case—” ‘That's et, In th t ease, you will have ter chip in and show ’em up.” Don Danton, the Gent from Denver, | man and let him know we are aware how matters stand?” ‘That might work, and force him to be honest; but, et would be better ter let him stand on hisown bottom, I think, He'll be more ther man ef he don’t fall.” “You are right. Well, we’ll let matters take their own course, then, and act according to cir- cumstances after awhile, You are a good fellow, Tom, and a big help to me, T’'ll see that you are taken care of.” ‘* Bit ain’t fer me ter ask questions of you, boss,” Tom now remarked, “but I’m sort o’ curious on some pints.” : ‘You are welcome to ask as many questions as you like,” the detective gave permission. “ Wull, then, are you goin’ ter give up detec- tive work and settle down ter minin’ in this place? Seems ter me et wouldn’t be easy ter do.’ ‘“No, Tom, I heve no idea of doing that at all, I bave been thinking it all over, and I be-~ lieve 1’ll sell out as soon as I cam and wind the business up. There will be a handsome fortune for Miss Letson,” “‘ And for you too,’eb?” ‘* Yes; for I am to have half of everything.” ‘““Mebby you have somethin’ in mind now, But, I don’t ask ye.” ‘Yes, 1 bave, Tom. I don’t mind telling you, either. If these men don’t buy the Wonder. and of course I'll see to it that they don’t, I think I'll cffer them the Sweetheart. They may send as many experts as they wish to ex- amine that.” ““T was of ther opine you would see that,” Trump declared, ‘‘I was goin’ ter put et inter yer bead, if ye didn’t.” ‘* Much obliged, Tom; but it is not much that gets away from the notice of Don Danton,” ‘‘T kin believe ye in that, from what I have heerd of ye.” So they continued, till presently they were joined by others, Nathan, Brett, Royland, ete. ; when'Tom Trump took his leave end sought. his own botel and more congenial company. The hour was late and the camp for the most part in darkness, when the sport detective stole out of the hotel and joined his man Trump at a place of rendezvous that had been agreed upon. From this point they made off in the direc- tion of the Worder Mine, the lead being taken by Tom Trump, who advanced with all the skill of a veteran scout: and after him went Danton, admiring bis manner of working and appreciating bis worth, Finally a point was reached where they were safe from discovery by any who were likely to come that way, and here they stopped. Not a great while later two other men came out from thecamp, stopping at the shaft. Tt was too dark to recognize them, of course, but their identity was readily guessed, and they were set down as Woolfe Natban and Austin Brett, The guess was a correct one, A few moments’ pause at the top, and they descended the shaft and al) was still. Not long bad they been gone when another personage came out of the camp and drew near the shaft with stealthy steps. This man, as was rightly guessed, was How- ard Royland, Reaching the shaft, he leaned over and peered down for a Jorg time, using his eyes and ears to all the alvantage he could. Satisfied at last, he drew silently away and re~- turned to the camp, and when he was out of sight and sound Danton and his man Trump: came forward to the shaft and took his place, What they saw and heard gave them all the proof they needed, Two men were below, and au occasional sight of them revealed that they were the ones suspected, Nathan and Brett. And ears and eyes speedily took in what they were doing. CHAPTER XV, THE EXPERT SELLS OUT, Next morning Howard Royland made his appearance from the hotel prepared for another excursion into the Wonder, a Austin Brett met him cordial and smiling, and insisted upon bis having something to drirk, or at any rate a smoke, before they set out. Royland accepted a cigar, and together they made their way into the mine, this time unac- companied by any others. Royland had an air of determination that made Brett uneasy, Brett furnished a light as before, and handing “* Wouldn’t it be a good idea to-see the young | the torch to Royland, took up the pick, '
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{ Ww “Now,” said he, “‘let’s begin right here at the "opening and take samples all the way along. Pll give you as many as you want.” As he spoke, Brett stood facing a corner of the tunnel on the right, ready to strike, ‘¢Try it here,” directed Royland, indicating a spot on the other side. ‘‘ We had specimens from. that side yesterday.” “On that side,” explained Brett, the change nettling him, ‘‘ the lode has been worked down to pretty near bare rock, It is on this side and at the end that it is in its beauty.” “Oh, well, it can’t make much difference,” Royland gave way. ‘‘ Suppose you try it right here.” As he spoke he iaid his hand on a a couple of feet from where Brett ba stri'sing. ¢ ‘‘ Look here,” Brett cried. ‘‘What is the matter with you?” ‘“Why, nothing,” Royland declared. ‘© Why don’t you knock off a specimen?” “Do you think this claim is loaded for you? Do you suspect we have been salting it down?” ‘T]] begin to think something of the sort, if you den’t go abead,” was the cool return, Brett muttered a curse and. made an attack upon the point indicated. / A piece was soon knocked off, Brett stooping at the same moment to pick it up. Royland was watching him, and discovered that he did not pick up the piece he had knocked off, but another that lay near it. ‘¢ This is the one,” Royland said, stooping and getting it himself. “You're mistaken,” Brett disputed. ‘ This is the one. Don’t you suppose [ saw it fall?” So did I, too. Go on and we'll get some more. Vil take enough specimens to make a thorough job of it this time,” Rrett soon made another effort to strike a point that had been fixed for the purpose, but Royland would not have it so, and demanded the pick himself. ‘Well, take it, if you think you can do any better,” Brett growled; and he surrendered it, Royland went abead, then, knocking off chips rojection intended - here and there, till the end of the tunnel was reached, where he added as many more to the stock in bis bag. “There, that will do, I guess,” he said. ‘© We'll go back to the hotel, and Pll give it a good ‘test and decide upon the whole by the samples I have taken this time.” ‘Curse you!” grated Brett, “who put you onto this thing?” “ What thing?” * You needn’t play the innocent, for you know well enougb.” “Tf you will explain what you are talking about, I may be able to answer you. What has come over you, anyhow, Mr. Brett?” “Oh, well, come on and we'll go back, Pll meet you in your room after a little while.” He turned and went hack to theshaft, Royland following, and they climbed out into daylight once more. They had visited the Wonder for the last time. P ‘ They parted there, Royland going straight to the hotel while Brett went off in another direc- tion. From the window of his room Royland could see in the direction of the Wonder and the Sweetheart, and in the course of twenty min- utes he saw Brett come out.of the office of the Sweetheart. A short time later there was a kaock at the door, and opening it he admitted Brett into the m. Well, how does it assay this time?” was the question. T haven’t tried it,” Royland answered, “* Haven't tried it?” “Exactly. What's more, I’m not going to it. Icansee plainly enough there is nothing in it.” Brett smiled in a sickly way, but the smile soon disappeared and a look of firmness took its lace, *T see the little game is up; Royland,” he said. ‘‘Tell me who'it was put you onto the thing. I want to know, just for satisfaction.” ‘Tf any one had told me,” was the return, ‘I would not tell you. What TI know I saw with “my own eyes last night between one o’clock and three.” You don’t mean it!” Brett cried, “IT do mean it, too,” was the retort, ‘ You thought you had closed my eyes nicely, yester- day, var know my business. I shall have to report the mine for what ib is worth,” ‘You won’t do anything of the kind,” cried Brett. ‘We want to have you report accord- ; t ing to the assay you made yesterday, and you *. it 7 : Be: Seat i Tae, Weeden <a By) WR ES ive ’ ; x MERA SW) EES RBIS ARSENIO Sed er OE TE ae Oe ETL can do it justas wellasnot. Iam going tomake it an object to you, if you’ll do it.” * But, I can’t do it, My reputation is at stake,” ‘* A fig for your reputation, Money is what we are after in this world, isn’t it?” ** Well, money comes in handy as we go along, but I want my money tocome to me honestly or I don’t want it at all.” *¢ That’s all very well in a story book, but you are not the fellow to fling ten thousand dollars over your shoulder, are you? I reckon not.” ‘Ten thousand dollars!” ‘*Not a cent less, You report in our favor, so that we can sell the mine, and that sum is yours, It will fix you for life, don’t you see?” **T see there is danger that it may fix me in another way. I don’t taink 1 will bite. No; I’ve got to report the mine as it is, and there’s no getting around it,” ‘* Nonsense! You can report the facts of the case, just as they happened, and you will be freed from all blame, You found the ore in the Wonder, and that was the ore you assayed, You did not see it put there. Til make it fifteen thousand to you.” Royland was pale, and his face twitched. ** It would come out,” he protested, ‘‘ and then where would I be?” ** What if it did come out; they couldn’t prove that you knew anything about it,” * Yes; but I do know all about it, and that’s where the pain lies, I can’t do it, and that settles it.” ‘*No, it don’t settle it, either. I am bound to have you report this thing just as you found it yesterday. You have got the bulge on us some- how, but we are willing to buy off.” ‘**T can’t do it,” ie We'll give you twenty thousand dollars cash, Royland was as pale as death, and trembled oe head to feet. It was the temptation of bis ife. ‘Twenty thousand dollars, and in good hard cash,” Brett urged, ‘‘ You can afford to give up your business and strike out unew in some other place. You will never get another chance like it in the world.” Loe expert hesitated, and—‘* He who hesitates is lost. ‘*Do you mean it?” he asked, ‘* Willyou give me the money cash down?” ‘* Yes, cash down, just as soon as we can get it. Perhaps it will be to-night. What do you say to it?” * Pll do it,” ** All right, But, we can’t do this without some security. You'll have to leave us your word in writing that you will carry out your part faithfully.” ‘Pll do that, too. Now that I’m in for it, I'm in for it up to the neck, Bring on the money and I’llgive you my bond. I want the cash in hand, however, or it’s no deal; don’t for- get that.” ‘*[ won't, It’s a bargain, and all understood, When I go out l’ll report the thing as settled, and that the assay has proved the mine to be all we claim for it, It is not generally known that it is a fake, and you'll be all safe in the matter. I don’t want you to go back on us.” “TI won't, Twenty thousand dollars is no small sum, and not tobe picked up in a day. Besides, these men are nothing to me,” CHAPTER XVI. DANTON CONSULTS TOM TRUMP, BRETT, however, said nothing till dinner time when he asked Royland openly how he had “made out with the second assay. The answer was to the effect that it was per- fectly satisfactory, and that he had no doubt but the sale of the mine would speedily follow his report, Detective Denton eyed the young man as he said this, but Royland was perfectly col about it, evidently determined to brave the thing out and so win the money promised bim. ** When do you return to Denver, Mr, Roy- land?” Danton presently asked. ‘* By the stage to-morrow, [ suppose,” was the rae hia ** Anything I can do for you there, sir? ‘* No, I guess not,” the rejoinder. ‘* I merely asked for something to say, as it were. If you have opportunity, don’t fail to mention the Sweetheart, in money circles,” ‘ Tl] do that, with pleasure, sir, after the sale of the Wonder. It would be unfair to the own- ers of that mine to mention it before.” a“ Of course,” During the afternoon the sport detectivecalled upon Miss Letson, Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. SS Se ee eee ‘‘T havecome,” he said, “ to have a little talk with you regarding business matters,” ‘* You are heartily welcome, I am sure,” was the sweet reply of the sad-faced girl, whose eyes still showed her weeping. ‘*T shall be able to make changes in the mine earlier than [ thought. This is to be Mr. Natban’s last day there, and to-morrow Mr, Hinyon will be promoted to his place,” *‘Oh! Lam glad of that, That will be as poor papa would have arranged it, had he not met with the fatal accident be did, It will be good for Mr, Hinyon, for I know he is deserving and. also capable.” ** I know he is capable, for I can see that the success of the mine has been his work since your fatber let go. From all accounts he has been there early and late, and has done his very best, Nathan getting most of the credit for it, I can see how it bas been,” ‘“‘Tam glad you can, sir, and that justice is going to be done,” “You do not ask why Nathan is going to ber removed,” ‘True; though Tam eager toknow. Itslipped me for the moment,” ‘¢T will vell you: It is because he isimplicated in the frauc that is in progress concerning the Wonder.” ‘“*Oh, I was sure of that.” * Well, we have got the proof of it, and to- night I am going to arrest him; as I have the power to do, you know,” “Then have they blinded the expert, after all,. so that he will report favorably upon the mine?” ‘¢ Why, the rascal has sold out to them, soul and body.” ‘“Myi How could he do things like that?” ‘“The world is full of such fellows. But, I was going to propose something to you, Miss: Letson?” ‘¢ What is it?” “Well, it is this: Here are capitalists with a barrel of money, so to say, looking for invest- ment, and when the Wonder fails them they will turn elsewhere. Would it not bea good idea to sell the Sweetheart to them?” “Do you think it would?” , “1 certainly do. [ have been thinking the matter over carefully, and I have come to that conclusion,” “What reason do you advance for that con- clusion? You must have reached it by a process of reasoning that has shown in its favor, sir.” ‘‘You say it exactly, Miss Letson, This camp, as you will agree, is now enjoying its boom, and is probably at its highest point, in spite of all that is said about its future.” “You may be right.” ‘*T know Iam right. We have seen such ex~ amples hundreds of times, at any rate 7 have, There is a larger population bere now than the: mines will supvort, and perhaps some of the other mines will soon follow the fate of the Wonder, If not, company rule will reduce pay, and as a consequence the camp must decline,” ‘“‘There is reason in that, certainly.” “Of course there is. It is sound peepee too. My belief is that the Sweetheart will bring a larger price just now than it will ever bring again, and if you hold fast to it, it ma suddenly peter out. Even if it does not, it will have to compete with other mines run as_ stock concerns, with millions to back them, and must. be the loser. 1 have nearly made up my mind to sell,” “And vou want,me to favor the action before you do so?” ‘* Well, yes, perbaps so, I thought I) would mention it to you, anyhow, and let. you think it over,” “Thank you. I will think it over carefully, and will let Fhe know my wishes, although I have expressed them once already.” ‘‘T know you have, and that is holding me back a good deal, Still, your father trusted everything to my judgment, and I must do what I think is for the best.” ‘Yes, [ suppose so.” ‘*You see your father was wise in what he did. He made my interest and your own iden- tical, He knew I would manage the mine for my own good, naturally, and in that way your benefit was assured.” Yes, it doss look that way, true, He had always told me half the prc perty was mine, no: matter what happened to him,” ‘*Had he a will prepared?” eagerly. ** No; though he meant to bave one, In that case | would have come in fer all of it, as I be-- lieve,” “Too bad he could not have made one, thens But, he thought be would get well, poor many, Oi snaelet ae ae Saba aes ee po abies
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12 Gad knew that he could trust me until he did re- cover, However, I have no intention of taking a full half, Miss Letson.” ‘*Oh, yes; you must take just whatever papa desired you to have.” “No; a quarter, or less, will repay me, if we sell out early. If I work it, and give my time, that will be different.” ** Of course,” When, finally, Dantor took his leave, he went a} t» the mine, where he remained till the close of 7. tho dav, when he returned to the hotel, | After supper he sought his man Tramp at the 4 hotel where he was staying, and entered into conversation with him regarding the events that were crowding forward to a climax. ‘¢ Well,” he remarked, ‘‘our man did take the bribe, just as you thought be was likely to do, Tom.” ** He did, eh? ther look in his off eye. bring them to a stop, then.” é ‘* You seem to forget that it’s your case, Tom,” A ‘* Oh, that be darn, boss; Don Danton don’t @ant no meddlin’ from a feller o’ my caliber.” ** But, I. want to doit in your way, so that it can be called your case out and out, as it really is, What would you do?” “Darn et, Danton, don’t expect me ter go ahead. Idon’t know B from bull’s foot about detective work, All you have ter do is ter get "em together at ther hotel, and we'll scoop ’em.” , “There, that’s what I wanted to get out of ; you. You have better ideas about detective work than you think you have,” ** You'll make me think I’m a whole batch of Government detectives, ef ye keep on.” Tom Trump seemed to swell with not a little 1 pride, under ali this liberal praise. , ‘* You might become something in that line, - if you were to put yourself down to it.” ** Haw! haw! haw! You make me larf, Mr, Danton, But, ef et wouldn’t be presumin’ too : much I might give yea hint or two that’s come ( inter my sleepy noodle,” j ‘* What are they? You did well enough be- fore in the pointers you gave me,” ‘* And et’s on ther same line ergain, too.” ‘¢ Then let me hear it, by all means,” ** Well, when you have blocked this hyar Jeetle game, why not send: fer these moneyed men ter come hyar, with ther main idee in sight * ter identify ther prisoners, or anyhow Royland; but really ter bring ther Sweetheart to their | motice,” ‘* Tom, you're a trump in fact,” ‘*T have to own ter that, sence that’s my name. But, don’t ye think it would be a good , Plan? And et would work, too,” ‘A ** Yes; but would they come?” ii **Come! Bet your life on’é they’d come, ) ‘Your name is known in Denver, and et would fetch em fast enough,” iy ** You think so?” 4! ‘Dm sure of et. ef et don’t,” 4 CHAPTER XVII. MAKING THE ARREST, THE sport detective seemed to approve of Tom i ‘Trump’s plans in everything he suzgested, “Pll tell you what it is, Tom,” he observed, presently. ‘It I take to the trail again after I W I was ’most sure he would, by Now is your time to You jest try et on, and see get done here, I'll take you-with me. What do you say to that?” ‘Et would jest suit me,” was the response, *“T never thort I was cut out fer a detective, but darn me ef thar ain’t somethin’ sort o’ hh drawin’ about et. Vl be with ye, ef ve want y me,’ by ‘*¢ Then it’s understood so.” **So be et. But, we'd better finish our plans about scoopin’ these hyar mean cusses, hadn’t we? . Certainly. What do you think is the best way? y { “Thar’s some leetle pints that I haven’t laid yw out to ye, yet, boss,” 4 ‘*Tbat so? What are they?” ** You'll begin ter think I’m a reg’lar Peter Pry, or whatever his name was; but I can’t help keepin’ my eyes ’n’ ears open any more’n I[ kin belp eatin’,” 4 That bespeaks the detective ability, I should say. } “Mebby et do; but I allus thort et was darn medalin’ in what didn’t consarn me.” ‘* But, what was the point?” ** Well, I hev seen arrests made afore, and you’ve made a many a one in yourtime, Tkey #!lus demands ther proof, don’t they?” ‘€ Almcst invariably, Tom.” “ Jest so; and they'll do et this time,” §* No doubt about ir.” 4 4 Ve ba “4 Z a " ‘ ree hd S ieee lots, Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. ‘*¢ And you'll want et to poke right under their | square accounts with Mr. Danton here, who © noses,” “ Certainly.” ** Have ye got et?” ‘* Why, yes; didn’t we see and hear what was going On at the mine last night?” “Ter be sure; and thar’s Hinyon, he kin be fetched in ter swear to et, too; but, ye may as well hold as good a hand as ye kin git,” “Of course. What more do you know?” “Well, jest this hyar: This afternoon that man Brett went to Royland’s room and paid him twenty thousand dollars in cash money, all in big bills, and the youngster has got et stow- ed away in two packages inside his shirt.” “You amaze me, ‘om, How did you get onto this?” ‘*Oh, ther same old way, same as I’ve told ye afore.” “It seems impossibls,” ‘* But et’s ther fact jest ther same. ain't all, either, boss!” ‘* What more?” ‘* Why, he made Royland sign a paper, statin’ that for ther sum of twenty thousand he was to mae a false report of ther condition of ther mine, And, that ain’t quite all yet.” ‘Tom, you are bewildering me. How much do you know?” ‘* Et don’t matter how much I b’wilder ye, so long as I am on your side in ther case and we're goin’ ter scoop ’em, As ter what I know, et ain’t much, But, hyar’s thir next pint: That ’ar paper is drawed up in Nathan’s handwritin’, and that will nail him deader’n a ghost!” “Tom Trump, you are just the man I want to tie to, as the boys say.” ‘* All right, boss, tie to me jestas hard as ye please; but, them is facts, and facts are what yanks ther plum.” ‘*You are right. As I have told you, Tom, I dida’t come here with the idea of doing any detective work, and so haven’t given any at- tention toit. If I had been looking for such things, of course I would have had these points myself,” “*Sartain; I understand that well enough, Ye woull’a’ had more, too, fer I don’t know nothin’ about ther biz. Et’s only blind luck that puts °em in my way. Thar is nothin’ of science about my way of gettin’ at things. But, yer see how etis now: ye have got ther game right in your own hands,” “T see I have. The proof can’t be doubted, and we'll have them, ‘You must be on hand to back me up, howevcr, when I arrest them.” ‘Never fear but Til be thar. Ef we are to be pards, you'll find your Trump on band every time you want ter use him.” When their talk ended, Danton went back to the Merry Monarch, where he found Nathan, Brett, and Royland, all in a jolly mood and en- joying soms wine and cigars at a table, He was immediately invited to join them, which he did. Brett and Nathan were jubilant over the re- port the expert had made of the Wonder Mine. They had treated the whole house once, or at any rate Brett had done so, for Nathan did not appear too openly concerned in the matter. After a little time they adjourned to the gam- ing room, where they began playing at one of the tables, for small sums at first, but gradually growing belder as their excitement increased. If Royland had been an older man than he was, or ratber if he had been a wiser and better posted young man, he would have.seen through this scheme, Brett and Nathan were trying, if possible, to win back the greater part of the money they had paid over to him that afternoon! While they were playing, Tom Trump came into the room and looked idly on for a little while, interested, He stood facing Danton, and behind Brett and Nathan. Royland seemed to be the loser, He oceasion- ally won a trifle, but not enough to balance his losses. Brett and Nathan, too, were dropping behind, slowly, while Danton was winning steadily right | along, a fact which seemed to troubie them | greatly. Finally Royland went broke, Ani, that ‘* Dll have to stop, gentlemen,” he announced, " ‘* My pile is gone,” ** Nonsense!” cried Brett. ‘‘ You can rake up some more somewhere. We haven’t half be- gun to play fyet.” ‘“*That’s so,” ‘supported Nathan. ‘* Come, draw on your reserve fund, young man, and see if you can’t recover your loss. It won’t do for one to stop loser.” ** Besides,” added Brett, ‘*we must try to sens 4 seems to be getting everything.” Daptou had caught Tom Trump’s eye, or Tom had caught his, and a quiet signal was ex- changed. Drawing a brace of revolvers suddenly, and y covering the trio, the sport detective exclaimed: \ ‘“ Gentlemen, this thing "kas gone about far enough. Up with your hands, for you are my f prisoners.” f Royland turned as pale as death, and seemed [ on the point of fainting, but not so the other two, They paled, to be sure, but they made a spring to their feet, at the same time reaching for weapons, In the same second each felt a cold tube press- ed behind h’s ear, and a voice cried out: “*Gentle, now, me buckies, or you'll hear some- thin’ drop.” It was Tom Tramp, and he kad the best band, Danton was now upon his feet, his weapons to the fore, and again ho ordered: ‘*Up with your hands, or the worse for you!” ‘* Bet your lives on et,” echoed ‘lrump, ‘‘My naise is Trump, and I’m backed by a right bower and a joker,” Every man in the room was now upon his feet; all was excitement, and a crowd was rap- idly forming around, eager to ascertain what it all meant, ‘* What in thunder is the meaning of this out- rage?” cried Brett. “That's what J demand,” echoed Nathan, “Somebody will suffer for this insult,” Royland was quiet, trembling and cowed. He baa not risen out of his chair, and his face be- trayed the fact that he knew what was coming. **}"l] tell you what it means,” spoke up thede- | tective. ‘It means that you are under arrest for ; attempt at defrauding some Denver capitalists out of a coo! hundred thousand dollars.” ** 1t’s a lie!” cried Brett, ‘It’s the truth, and I can prove it,” declared Danton. ‘‘Keep up your bands, or the worse for you!” . At first there had appeared to be a slight | . { tremor in bis tone, but it was now growing steady enough, and it was evident that he meant business. The weapons of Tom Trump, too, were still to , be felt behind the rascals’ ears, and it was the part cf wisdom for them to remain quiet as ordered, since there was no help for it. ‘‘ How are you going to prove it?” cried Brett. ‘* We have laid the whole mine cpen to the ex- pert here, and he bas tested it for what itis worth. You are making a great mistake, Mr, Detective Danton.” ‘“‘Dan Danton does not make mistakes,” was the retort. ‘I have got the proof on you fast enough, and you are my game, Men of Kick- apoo, I call upon youin the name of the Goy- ernment to secure these men, after which I will produce the proof for what I bave asserted,” | | CHAPTER XVIII. PROVING THE CASE AND CAGING THE BIRDS, AT first noone offered to obey the call, for | Brett and Nathan were men who had held great | f . | | | } f i sway at Kickapoo.! ‘Gentlemen, I have the right to demand help in this matter,” the detective urged, ‘* You bad better do as I request, and so save further trouble.” ‘“‘But, ther proof, whar is it?” asked Henry Bridgelow, or Hen Low, as he was called, th proprietor of the hotel. ‘‘It ain’t askin’ to much ter ask ther proof ’fore we goes inter this thing, is it?” “ T'tell you the proof will be forthcoming im- mediately,” was.the assurance, ‘Never mind any help,” spoke up Tom ‘Trump. ‘ You bold ’em covered, Don Danton, and I'll soon fix ’em,” Putting away one of his own weapons, Tom deftiy disarmed the three, and they were then helpless to do barm and were practically as secure as though bound, ‘“Thar ye have ’em,” Tom cried, ‘‘ Now show ’em up fer what they are, Delicate Don, I tell ye thar’s no_ use tryin’ ter kick over ther traces when Don Danton gits his grip onto ye, me lads.” ‘‘ Took here, Don Danton,” cried Nathan, now, ‘‘I demand to know what part Jam in for in this matter, You ought to know that lam not in it,” ‘* Beg your pardon, sir, but you are init, and in it bad, too,” the detective disputed. our + ‘* Show up ther proof,” called outonemanin |) the crowd, ap ‘¢That’s et!” others supported at once, BY, ‘Very well, gentlemen, if you are prepared — 4 /
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5 de-ocatemene meeenreee-nermaemeemensercmnmeeneee tree ee el = Don Danton, the Gent from Denver, for it I will show them up in their true light. You will find that I am able to prove all that I bring against them.” “That is what we demand,” cried Brett. **-You have undertaken a serious thing, Don Danton, and if you don’t make out a case against us we will make you sweat for it, you can de- md on that,” “That is all right, sir. If you know anything about my reputation you must know that I am not in the habit of making mistakes. If you will hold your peace now I will soon set forth << articulars of the matter to the satisfaction of all. Royland was still in his chair, pale and trem- ling. “¢ Th the first place,” the detective began, ‘‘ I and my man know the Wonder Mine was salted, and we saw you when you fixed it. If you deny that, we are able to offer other witnesses to rove the fact. This man here,” indicating oylana, ‘* knew the same thing, the reason he demanded another test. ‘* On the second test you were not able to fool him, as on the first occasion, and the result was, he cornered you. It was then you offered him a bribe, and when you made it big enough he took the bait and swallowed it. This is the truth, gentlemen of Kickapoo, and they can’t deny it.” ** But, we do deny it,” cried Brett. ‘6 We defy you to proveanything of the kind,” challenged Natban, ‘* Tt is easily proved,” was the cool response, “Mr. Royland here has the money on his per- son, now, while you, Mr. Brett, hold a paper which you made him sign at the time you paid him the twenty thousand dollars, Deny it if you can,” ‘*T do deny it,” Brett shouted, Royland’s head had dropped, and guilt was plainly seen in his manner, * Can this be true?” cried Nathan, suddenly. ‘Have you been tricking me in this way, Austin Brett?” The detective laughed. “‘ That little by-play won’t serve you,” he de- clared. ‘* You areas deep in the mud as your Riad is deep in the mire. I can*prove this, * Prove it then. I defy you to prove it!” *Do you? The document Mr. Brett holds is in your handwriting. It was you who penned it, and you are as guilty as he.’ This took Nathan somewhat aback, How had this detective managed to learn so much, when he and bis accomplice had done everything with so much secrecy? ** You’re a liar!” the man cried out, The detective only smiled at that, while he made response: “Ts that the reputation of Don Danton?" he asked, ‘‘I hardly think so, You have heard what I charge, men of Kickapoo; Jet them dis- prove it if they can.” “On what terms will you let me off, Mr. Danton, if I confess to the whole business?” ask- 13 | ‘*T am going to hold you and send for the men | long as he lives, Him be allee samee son to who sent you here in their interests,” was the response, ‘That means that it is all up with me, then, Curse the miserable money that tempted me!” ‘You should have cursed it before you ac- cepted it, sir, That would bave been more to the point. It is too late now.” ‘* Shall I take the money from him, Mr, Dan- ton, and show up all ther proof at oncet?” asked Trump. ‘* Yes; take it from him and we will take charge of it,” was the order, Royland did not resist, but aided the man in getting at the money and bringing it to light, ‘Is any further proof wanted?” the detective inquired, “Should say not,” spoke up Hen Low. ‘t You seem ter have et allin. one lump, Don Danton.” ‘*Tbhen what is to be done with such rascals?” was demanded, ‘* Have youa jail bere in Kicka- poo that will hold them bor a day or two?” ‘*'Yes, thar is a jail hyar, and a good one,” spoke up one fellow, “That is all that is needed, then, By the power given me, I order them committed to the jail, there to await the arrival of the men they plotted against.” ** And that ’ar means,bind ’em,” decided Tom Trump. ‘‘Ef ye know when ye are well off, men 0’ Kickapoo, ye won’t make et necessary fer Donny ter ask ye more nor a dozer times ter help in this matter.” * You are right in saying that,” added Don. At that some men lent their aid, and the three were speedily bound and ready for the lock-up. Danton’s proof had been all that could be asked, and there was no room for further doubt regarding the guilt of the three conspirators. hatever help they might have had from friends, the very name of Don Danton checked, for it was a name that had become a terror to evil-doers of every class in a brief time. ‘It seems all against us now,” Brett spite- fully declared, ‘‘ but you will live to regret this, Don Danton.” ‘*T am not likely to,” was the retort, “That is so,” grated Nathan, ‘for you may be taken off suddenly before you have time to regret it.” ‘Can't you let me be a witness on your side, Mr. Danton?” urged Royland, eagerly. ** Don’tneed you,” was the reply hegot. ‘Our case is complete.” A good deal more was said all around, more than could be quoted were it even necessary; but it is not, All being ready, the prisoners were conducted to the jail, where a guard was placed to see that no chance for escape was allowed the rascals, That having been done, Danton and his man withdrew to the hotel of the latter for a further conference, and the hour was late when they se) ge or the night. tis needless to say there was t excite- ment at Kickapoo, and the name of Don Danton was upon every lip. Chin Chop. Hey, Telly?” ‘* Bet yer life,” cried ‘erry, ‘‘ Tl bea son-of- a-zgun to ye, Chopsey, av I ketch ye so much as lookin’ crooked at any dark green bottle dhis: trip. ** You lettee me takee one dlink ’fore we start,, Telly?” ‘*Nixey, Nary a drop,” ‘* Me givee you fifty cents, Telly.” “Not fur a dollar, Chopsey, old boy. You can’t have any av Oi know mesel’, and Oi tink Oi do,” So they kept it up till the stage was ready to: start, when they were cheered out of the camp by the crowd assembled to see the stage off, At the Sweetheart Mine some changes were made promptly, Jobn Hinyon was promoted to the office of manager, while Tom Trump was given charge as- superintendent, The prisoners at the jail were safe, and likely to remain so, for the guard was made up of picked men selected by Hinyon and Tom Trump» together, By the way, Tom Trump and Jobn Hinyon seemed to have struck up a friendship early, for they were much together and seemed to like each other more than usually well for short ac- quaintances, On this morning, too, Danton had sent a letter to the men who had employed Royland to: examine the Wonder, bidding them come as: soon as possible to identify the young man and appear against him, He signed his name in: full to thet letter, and told them to ask for him at the Merry Monarch when they arrived, Other letters of importance went out by the same stage, but we will not stop to explain about them now. : “Well, everything seems to be working nice- ly,” remarked Danton to Tom Trump, whem they met that night after the mine had closed for the day. ‘*Bet yer life on that!” was the response. ‘““No reason why it shouldn’t, either. We'll make a big showin’ of ore by the time them fellers come, and I'll bet they’ll snap at ther bait,’ ‘Yes, I think they will, too. You see, they’lE be under obligation to me, and they'll know there is no fake about our mine, I think I'll be able to sell out at a good rouad figuré, Tom.. That will wind up our business here.” Some days passed. The situation remained unchanged for the three who were in jail. One attempt bad been made to rescue Brett and Nathan, but the guard had been more than equal to the emergency. he two men bad enemies in the camp as well as friends, and the guardsmen had been taken from among them, in order that there might be: no treachery. And after the attempt at rescue the guard was doubled, On the afternoon when the Denver capitalists ed Royland. Hie were expected, the sport detective was at the “Curse you for an idiot!” cried Brett, CHAPTER XIX hotel to meet them, viciously. Z When the stage came it was noticed, as it **T won’t let you off at all,” was the incisive response. ‘IT have all the proof needed.” * And that’s jest as good as his confession,” ke up Tom Trump, ‘‘ We have got 'em dead to rights, Master Don,—leastways you have; and we'll hold fast to ’em too, you bet!” ‘* Why don’t\ye show up ther proof?” demand- ed Hen Low. ‘You can have it at once. Tom, take the paper from Mr. Brett’s pocket, and let it be read aloud, I'll shoot him on the spot if he re- sists,” With a quick move Tom Trump thrust his hand in and drew out the paper in question, » It was handed toa man in the crowd, who read it aloud, “You can’t prove that against me,” cried Nathan, ‘‘I deny it all. I never saw it before in my life.” ‘¢ That won’t do, sir,” warned Danton. ‘' Your handwriting at the office is the same as this, and it won’t take long to compare the two, But, it is not necessary to do that,” “JT admit it all, now,” cried Royland, “I was a fool to give way to the temptation. It is all true—” “Shut up, you fool!” snarled Brett, ‘“ Bt don’t make any difference whether he shuts up or don’t shut up,now,” declared Tom Trump, ‘‘ Donny Danton has got the bulge von ye, and ye have got ter go below, J should sa T'What are you going to do with me?” asked Royland, SPRINGING THE SURPRISE, LitTLE has been said, for a considerable time, poemaeeing Chin Chop and bis youthful guard- an. Not because they were not worthy of mention has this been the case, but rather because other matter has demanded attention. They were still at their hotel at Kickapoo, still carrying on their ridiculous farce, yet at the same time secretly doing the work of their master, Don Danton. On the morning following the arrest of Brett, Nathan, and Royland, they made their appear- ance at the Monarch about the time the stage was ready to start, and booked themselves for passage, This was a surprise, for Chin Chop had hired a shanty and bad given out that he was about 02 Rvhats not goln’ ‘What, no n’ ter git out, be ye, Chin Chop?” soulehody demandel. ; oe “Not for velly long,” was the Celestial’s re- sponse. ‘‘Go gittee stuff to open smokee shop. 7 ges then open ranch and have big me, ** And you’re with him, Terry?” ‘‘Bet yer galluses on it!” the Irish lad re- sponded, ‘If I let him go alone he'd git so stavio’ blind drunk, beacks dhat he wouldn't never foind his way back here again, and well he knows it, too,” **Alles samee Telly vely good boy,” Chin Chop declared. ‘ Me likee him vely much; use him like he my own son, Me be fathel to Telly, came into the camp, that Chin Chop the China- man and Terry his young guardian were pas- sengers on top. be crowd greeted them with a cheer as the stage drew up and stopped. ‘* Ajlee samee come back, like bad dollal,” greeted Chin Chop, with a broad grin, “And Oi’m roight wid him, you bet,” sung: out Terry. There were other passengers on top, and there seemed to be a goodly number inside, Chin Chop, Terry, and the others got down, and at the same time the passengers inside were getting out, The first to alight were two well-dressed men of middle age, whom the sport detective took at once to be the capitalists from Denver. Following these was a younger man, who, when he had alighted, turned and assisted out a very old and very feebleman, The old man had long white hair and beard, and wore a shaw). Somehow nobody appeared to be in a hurry. There was even less than the usual haste to get into the hotel on the part of the new arrivals. a, looked around leisurely, and presently made their way up the steps and into the botel. A portion of the crowd followed, naturally, and more than the usual number, since it was known the men were expected who were to push the case against Royland and the other two con- spirators, The young man, assisting the aged gentleman, was the first to enter, the others coming behind. The sport detective followed in, awaiting for Re ee ee Sa ob ee
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= Oo a ‘ \ 14 Don Danton, the Gent we hated alt eceenaeeen a ae ened om from Denver. @ome inquiry to be made for him before he made any advances, For some reason, too, Chin Chop and Terry entered, while Tom Trump and John Hinyon were in the rear. The two well-dressed gentlemen looked leisure- ly around the room for a moment, but presently approached the bar and one of them asked: ‘¢ 1g there a gentleman stopping here by name of Dona'd Danton, sir?” “Thar is, sir,” answered the proprietor. “* That is him, right over thar, sir,” indicating ‘the man. At this the detective stepped immediately for- ward, smiling blandly, and greeted the two strangers, ‘* Have I the pleasure of addressing Messrs, Westerly and Hampkin?” he asked. ‘* We answer to those names, sir,” was the foold response, ‘‘ but we fail to recognizes you.” Danton paled slightly, and seemed to grow confused, * Why, I—I am Donald Danton,” he declared. **T am the man who wrote to you and requested you to come here. Lam a stranger to you, of ‘course, and it—” ‘© Yes, you are a stranger, that is so,” the spokesman for the two interrupted, ‘* You cer- tainly are not the Donald Danton whom we en- gaged to come here in our interest regarding ‘the Wonder Mine—” The detective was now as palje as death, and ‘he interrupted brokenly: * There—there is—there must be some mistake, gentlemen. Inever engaged with you to come here in your interest regarding any mine, There is a misunders'anding somewhere, I came here on another business entirely. You have been imposed upon in some manner—” ‘*We might have been imposed upon, sir, had ‘we not been too wary,” was the cutting inter- ruption. ‘‘ We engaged Detective Don Danton to come here and watch over the testing of the Wonder Mine, not caring to trust entirely to Mr, Royland, the expert; and you, positively, are not the man. You are an impostor, sir ]” The accused man glanced around the room, particularly at the way of exit. There were three doors leading from the apart- ment, and in each of these stood a person with a brace of revolvers in each, Atone door stood Jobn Hinyon; at another stood the bland and innocent Celestial, Chip Chop; while at the third was young Terrence McCune, grinning broadly. The sport was as pale as death now, greatly unlike Don Danton, and he reached out and laid a hand upon the bar for support. He tried to speak, but was unable to do so, and stood star- ing helplessly. P At this moment Tom Trump stepped to the ront, “ Might I be allowed ter chip in a word jest hyar?”’ he asked, ‘* Yes, if you can give us any light upon this matter,” answered one of the new arrivals, “‘Truther think I kin do that, sir, You say this man is not Lon Danton, do ye?” ** Positively.” ** Exactly! Would you know the real Don Danton if you saw him?” “Certainly, sir, Itis less than ten days ago since he was at our office in Denver,” ‘* Then please say if this is the man.” With a quick movement Tom Trump re- moved his hat and snatched off hair and beard, and there stood forth the real Don Danton, Prince of Detectives, to confront the daring im- postor! CHAPTER XX, DON TELLS HIS STORY, TuE excitement that prevailed was intense. The pretender staggered back, and would have fallen but for the hold he had upon tho bar, Here was something which none had suspected, and which none had known save the few Don bad taken into his confidence. It was a surprise even to the two gentlemen from Denver, for they had not been admitted fully into Don’s scheme, though of course he had posted them regarding the imposture. ‘* Am J the man?’ Don asked. “Yes, you are the real Danton,” was the smiling response. It was then that the only original Don turn- ed upon the cowering rascal who had deposed bim, bis keen eyes flashing. *You despicable rascal!” he cried, pointing his finger at the man and speaking with scorn, ** You thought to play the role of Don Danton, but have been overreached, I will now unmask you and show you up in your true colors,” Again the fellow looked at the doors, asif calculating his chances, } | ** Begob,” sung out Terry, ‘‘ an’ ye come dhis | way it’s a subject fur a funeral ye will be, in | short order!” ‘* Allee samee here too,” chipped in Chin Chop. ‘‘ Me gottee dlop on you, and me let dlive big double dose if you tly to gettee outee, you bettee,” ‘*T need not warn you not to come this way,” | added John Hinyon, The fellow was trapped. ‘There is no escape for you, Ethan Fairday, you see. Don Danton does not do his work by halves, as you must be aware by this time. Ob, you may start at mention of your true name. 1 know you. Iam guessing at nothing. Deny your identity if you can—if you dare.” ‘¢T do deny it,” the fellow gasped. ‘‘ Ideny—” ‘** Helen Fairday, come’ forward and face this knave of knaves!” Don called. A vailed woman bad entered the room, uuob- served saye by few, and she now came to the front, *Wthan Fairday,” she cried, throwing back her vail and revealing a pale, sad face, ‘it is useless for you to deny who you are, Iam your wife, and at last, thanks to the true Don Danton, I have found you.” The rascal hung his head. ‘*'Yes, you are downed at last,” said Don, ‘*and now you shall sign the papers which will give this woman that which is hers by right. After that the law will deal with you, and you will find its grasp will not be gentle by any means.” Staggering to a chair, tho man dropped into it, letting fall his head upon his armson the table. ** Citizens of Kickapoo, some explanation is due you concerning the kick-up we have been making here, If you will give me your attention I will tell you the story in full, so that you may understand it all. First, however, I will do this,” With a single stride he was where the accused man sat, and a pair of handcuffs were snapped on his wrists. ‘*Some time ago,” Don then resumed, ‘‘I was sent for by these gentlemen, Mr. Joseph Wester- ly and Mr. James Hampkin, and requested to come to their office at Denver, I went, and they engaged metocome to this place and investi- gate, quietly, the mine known as the Wonder, Not only that, but I was to see that their expert, Mr, Royland, gave them a true and honest re- port, ‘* Sending two able allies on in advance, these whom you have known here as Chin Chop and Terry McCune, I came down from Denver on the same day and by the same train with How- ard Royland, knowing who he was, and also knowing his business full well. On the same train was this man, Ethan Fairday, and after we had taken the stage, at Wainwright, he gradually let out the fact thas he was Don Dan- ton, the detective, ‘* Naturally, [ was surprised, and not a little interested; and when he had made known his business, [ resolved to take a hand in it with him, for I knew well enough it could not be any- thing honest, I worked myself into his confi- dence anu engaged with him, and allowed him to carry on the game he had begun, On the arrival of thé stage my allies were naturally surprised, but they waited patiently until I had opportunity to talk with them and post them in the matter, and together we began to work out the case, ‘*Gathering all the facts, I immediately sent word to Denver and had the matter looked into there, and thus learned the whole truth. When I was in Denver to see these gentlemen, my name got mention in the papers. Mr. Job Let- son saw it, and sent for me, I bad gone, but this rogue, learning from a rascally employee what the nature ef Mr, Letson’s business was, went and represented himself as Don Danton, and so came into possestion of the paper he had when he came here,, Mr, Letson knew the ras- cally nature «ff bis manager, Nathan, and wauted to put his property in safe hands, ** Armed with that paper, this fellow began at once one of the most daring and heartless pieces of villainy it has ever been my duty to unmask, Taking some men as vile as himself into the matter with him, they went to the private hos- pital where Letson was, representing themselves as his friends, and got permission to remove bim, as he was then out of all danger. This they did, and made him their prisoner in a pri- vate house which they hired for the purpose. That done, a letter was written to Miss Letson over the forged names of the doctors of the in- stitution, and Fairday came on here tocarry out the scheme to the full, With the help of the Lase employee at the infirmary, who could inter- cept all letters, they considered themselves safe enough in their villainy. ‘‘T am not prepared to say they meant to kill Mr, Letson, 1 do not think that was their in- tention, or they would not have gons to the trouble of making bim their prisoner and caring for him atall, But they meant to hold him un- til such time as this rascal here had disposed of the mine and they bad pocketed the money and taken themselves off.” “That was their intention, as I am well aware, But, their game has been blocked, With the aid of detectives at Denver I discover- ed Mr, Letson, and he has been brought here to face this crook, I see you are looking about for him, gentlemen. I will introduce him to you in one moment. Learning who the impostor really was, I sent for this woman, his wife, to come and identify him, having some time ago promised to communicate with ber if I ever ran across him. You have heard what she had to say tohim. It is a clear case,” Here Don paused, and the feeble old man with the white hair and beard stepped forward and removed his disguise. Tt was Job Letson, still very weak, but out of all danger and on the road to a permanent re- covery! A rousing cheer greeted his appearance, It was, to all, like one returning from the dead, “Yes,” he said, pointing at the prisoner, ‘that is the man who represented himself to me as Don Danton, and whom I trusted as I would trust myself. My curse be upon him; detestable villain that he is!” The crowd had increased all the time, rumor having gone out concerning what was going on, so the room was now packed full, Great was the cheering that followed, and a hundred voices welcomed Job Letson home, ‘“*There is little more to tell,” announced the real Don, when he could make himself heard again. ‘* You can now understand clearly all that has been going on during the past few days, If T have allowed this rogue to play his assumed role so long, it was to gain time for this final un- masking, © was eager enough to expose the rascally worleat the Wonder Mine, for be hoped by so doing to be able to sell the Sweetheart to these gentlemen, and so get hold of the money atan early date. It is needless for me to say Miss Letson would never have seen a penny of it, had he been able to carry out his infamous scheme, ‘*T allowed him to go on, and even aided him with now and then a word of modest advice, for he had not the ability himself to carry out the play be had undertaken, He had never a sus- picion of my true character, of course. ‘When he wrote to these gentlemen, bidding them come here, he thought he was doing a re- “ marbably clever thing, little dreaming that he was playing into my hands, Ibad dispatched letters myself, explaining enough of the situation to bring the gentlemen here in response to his summons, and finally sent other communications by my allies, I had taken John Hinyon into my confidence, finally, and lastly Miss Loetson her- self, in order that she might not oppose the schemer’s designs too strongly. Oh, it bas been a great play, but the end has been reached, ** Little did my prisoner know of the character of the man whose name he so daringly assumed. He did not hesitate to drink, which Don Danton never does; nor was he sparing in his pompous self-praise, He made an ass of himself general- ly, or at any rate J had the pleasure of thinking 80, ‘*And the paper he held? That is not in his possession now, nor has it been for some time, Perhaps you will remember the rough man who attacked him one night and deposited him on the flogr. I will state, not to boast, but to make everything plain, that J was that man, and on that occasion I took the paper from him and put itin my pocket, As it was made out in my name, I considered that J was its rightful owner. Anyhow, I took possession of it as such, and he never knew what became of it, until now. “Ts there anything further to be explained? I think not, You who know all about the affair since my coming here, can readily make out the few points I have not touchedupon. I have un- masked the impostor, and have made myself known to you as the genuine Don Danton. It is enough. CHAPTER XXI. IN CON€LUSION. Tum news had gone around the camp like wildfire, and in less than half an hour after the exposure the street in front of the hotel was black with people.
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yaa fyi -is certain to Never in all its his ‘an excitement like thi and perhaps if the crow there would have been Lynch, Call after call was mad nothing would satisfy the his appearance on the piaz people, The man who bad come w Denver was another detective, duced, and who told the partic of the work which had been pe Denver force. There was a lawyer at Kickapoo, and he was called upon to arrange the paper which Helen Fairday required her rascally husband to sign, When it was prepared, the man gave his signa- ture, and it was witnessed by several persons present, including Don Danton. Fairday was a noted gambler and sharp, He had taken his wife’s property from her and then deserted her, hoping to dispose of it and make uso of the money, As he discovered, however, he could not dispose of it, nor could she make use of itso long as he withheld his signature Paes certain legal documents. Now it was xed. When the work was accomplished, the woman turned upon the prisoner and said: “Now, Ethan Fairday, adieu forever. I loved you once, and would have been a life- long slave to you had you used me right, but all my love has turned to hatred now. I never want to look upon your face again,” Thanking Detective Danton, then, for the ser- vice he had rendered, she went out, and was seen no more, The twenty thousand dollars, or most of it, which had been paid to Royland by Brett and Nathan, had been taken from the Sweetheart funds, as Don had discovered; and it was re- placed. Ethan Fairday was put in the local jail along with the other rascals, and the guard was re- doubled so that there could be no chance for their escape. That having been done, the erowd next carried Job Nathan home to his overjoyed daughter. The news of his return had reached her ears, so the sbock was not what it might have been other wise. There was great rejoicing, as cada well be im- agined. Jobn Hinyon was recognized by Mr. Letson as manager of the mine, and Don, of course, resigned his office as superintendent, Don and his allies were royally entertained, and the people of the camp could not do half enough to show their appreciation of what they had done toward righting the terrible wrong. On the following morning a start was made for Denver with the prisoners, Don and the other detective had them in charge, while Chin Chop and Terry acted as a gort of reserve guard, The capitalists, too, returned, not caring to invest anything in the Wonder Mine, now that it had been exposed for what it really was. Nor did they ever return to look further, Arriving at Denver, the prisoners were pro- perly charged and imprisoned to await trial. Other arrests had heen made, and there was a goodly number of the rascals in limbo on account of the daring conspiracy. When the cases came to trial, Ethan Fairday and those concerned with him in the attempt to get possession of the Sweetheart Mine were sent to prison for long terms, as they richly de- served, Austin Brett, Woolfe Nathan, and those con- cerned with them in the attempted swindle of the Wonder Mine, were likewise soverely dealt with, and sent to repent of their folly and crimes. Howard Royland was let off with a lighter sentence, but his life prospects were ruined, How true it is that crime never pays. Dis- honesty may flourish for a day, but in tbe end it rove a bad investment, Nothing pays, in the long run, like honesty and upright- ness, A man may be poor, but if he be honest he has a priceless fortune which no one can take away from him, A good name is better than gold, and will carry its owner further than money in pocket, Not long after the events recorded, ther had Kickapoo seen verybody was wild, d had its own way © work for Judge Don Danton, and nd addressed the fr, Letson from om Don intro- $8 of that part rmed by the was a quiet wedding at pets oe the happy couple being Lamia Letson and John Hinyon, Delicate Don was present, as were his two able allies, and it was a joyous affair. The amp did full honor to the occasion, and every- body was happy. THE END, d until he made | se Se ee ee ee ee ee ee SSS... Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. Beadle's Half-Dime Library. BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, 11 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes of a Bowery Girl, 76 Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. TY Sel Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 248 Joe Buck of Angela and His Boy Pard. 447 New York Nat. A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham, | 458 New England Nicky; or, The Fortunes of a Foundling. 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince, 495 Laon Ted, toe Arizonn Sport. S10 Cool Colorado, the Hall-Breed Detective 518 Cool Colorado In New York; or, The Cowboy's Fight. BY GEORGE CO. JENKS, 455 Git Thar Owney the Unknown, 492 Git Thar Owney’s Pledge. 5618 The Demon Doctor; or, Dendhold, the Kid Detective. 581 Deuble-Curve Dan, tho Pitcher Detective. Flute, the Singer Detective; or, Owney In a New Role, The Pitcher Detective’s Foll; or, Dan’e Double Play, The Ocean Detectives or. The LastCrulse ofthe Black Bear, The Pitcher Detective’s Toughest Tuasle. Larry the Thoroughbred; or, Beaten on Every Side, Iron Hand, the Charmed Detective BY CHARLES MORRIS, Will Somers, the'/Boy Detective. Phil Mardy, the Boas Boy. Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. Detective Dick; or, The Hero in Rags Mandsome Harry, the Boothlack Det Will Wildfire, the Thoroughbred. Black Beas, Will Wildfire’s Racer, Mike Merry the Harbor Police Boy. Will Wildfire in the Wooda, Billy Baggage, the Railroad ey ‘ A ‘Trump Card 3 or, Will Wildffre Wins and Loses Bob Rockett, or, Mysteries of New York, Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner, The Hidden Mand; or, Will Wildfire’s Revenge, Fred Halyard, the Life Boat Boy; or, The Smuggiers, Bob Rockett; or, Driven to the Wall. Shadowed; or, Bob Kockett’s Fight for Life, Dark Paul, the Tiger King. Dashing Dave, the Dandy Detective, ‘Tom ‘Tanner; or, The Black Sheep of the Flock, Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky, 235 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy. The Two “ Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang. Dick Dashaway ¢ or, A Dakota Boy in Chicago, The Young Sharps: or, Rollicking Mike’s Hot Trail, Jolly Jim, thé Detective Apprentice. Jolly Jim’s Jobs or, The Young Detective. The Water-Hound; or, The Young Thoroughored, 5 Dashaway, of Daketas or, A Western Lad in Quaker City, Kalph Ready, the Hotel Boy Detective. ‘Tony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective, The Reporter-Detective 3 or, Fred Flyers Blizzard, 7 Wide-Awnke Joe; or, A Boy of the Times. Jarry, the Leveler; or, The Bloods of the Boulevard, Firetly Jack, the River-Rat Detective, The Lost Finger; or, The Entrapped Cashier, Fred Flyer, the Reporter Detective. lInvinelble Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret, Billy Brick, the Jolly Vaganond. Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive. Detective Dodge; or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty, Wild Dick Raeket; or, How He Fought for Honor, Boots, the Boy Fireman: or, Too Sharp for the Sharper, The Secret Service Boy Detective. Jimmy the Kid; or, A Lamb Among Wolves. 7 Tom Bruce of Arkansas; or, The Wolfin the Fold, 5 Plucky Paul, the Boy Speculator. Rob and Sam, the Daisy Detectives. The Curbsatene Detective; or, Harry Hale’s Big Beat. Detective Frank’s Swoep-stakes, tY J. W. OSBON, The Rival Giants of Nowhar’. Cactus Burr, the Man from Hard Luck. Old Buckeye, the Sierra Shadow. Powder Phil, the Boy Miner; or, The Man Without a Past. Bolly Dorrit, the Veteran Detective, Little Lightning’s League; or, The Mystery of tne Island Plnueky Paul, the Boy Prospector, Gold-Dust Dan, the Trail Patrol. Gold Dust Dan’s Oath; or, Reckless Roy, the Regulator. Aa OO BY JO EIEROR “ ob o 1e Bowery ¢ or, The Prince of Mulbe Stree The Vagabond Detective; or, Bowery Bob's Boom, - HMotapur Bob, the Street-Boy Detective, The Lawyers Shadow; or Luke’s Legacy. Jnunty Joe, the Young Horse-King, Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective, Five, Pointa Phil, the Pavement Prince, Sack Jngwera, the butcher Boy Detective, Tartar Tim; or, Five Points Phil’s Menagerle, Nerth River Nat, the Pier Detective, Wrestling Rex, the Pride ofthe Sixth Ward. Jeif Flicker, the Stable Boy Detective. Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow; or, The Old Well Mystery. Warlem Jack, the Office Boy Detective. Brooklyn Ben, the On-Hivy-Own-Hook Detective, Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer, Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s Aid, Ruck Bumblebee, the Harlein Hummer. rat ay tna, ee Express-Train Ferret. ant 8 min Bob, the Bowery Badger; or, Scooping a et. Sky-Roeket Rob, the Life-Saver. ie Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator Soley Jim, the Only One of His Kind. A Tom Thistle, the Road-Housu Detective 7 Moaquito Jack, the Hustler Gamin, 6 Dennis Duff the Brown Sport’s Kid. 4 Dick of the Docks, the Night-W atch, » 1 1 - - ®2 $s VONICRNOS LEEZNNASSN AS een ASSN SCeS es DSS et ek ek ek pret ret pr rh pr tek ret rk rh ed pt ed = 220 469 498 537 564 609 G20 688 TH TSS BYT ALS Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. Foxy Fred's Odd Pardy or, The Reener’s Huge Hustle. Cast-O” Cale, the Scapegoat Detective. RY PHILIP 8. WARNE, Patent-Leather Joe; or, Old Rattlesnake, the Charmer. Onptatn Arizona; or, Patent-Leather Joe's Big Game. Captain Mask; or, Patent-Leather Joe’s Defeat. Dexpard, the Duellat; cr, The Mountain Vempires. A Tough Boy; or, The Dwarf’s Revenge. Little Tornado ; or, The Outcaste of the Glen, Little Jingo; or, the Queer Pard. Little Oh-my 3. or, Caught In His Own Trap, Little Shoo-F ly; or, A Race fora Ranch. Little Leather- Breeches ¢ or, Old Jumbo’s Curse. Little Ah Sing or, The Curse of Blood. Oolorado Kate. A Tale of the afines. 480 Three Jolly Parda; or, The Pets of Paddy’s Flat. 517 Jim Gladden’s Deputy; or, The Jolly Pard’s Campaign. 5627 The Jolly Pards to the Rescue; or, The Jack o Hearts, 547 Sandy Andy; or, A Good Man Down, 556 Lariat Lil; or. The Cast for a Life. 574 Old Weasel-top, the Man with the Dogs. 598 Keen Clem, the Ranch Imp. 599 Jim Dandy the No-Name Sport. 618 Billy Blazes; or, The Skeleton’s Legacy. 685 Oklahoma Hit the Blue-Coat Scout. 648 Wappy Harry’« Big Finds or, The Beautiful Jezebel. 664 Cheeky Charley the Special. BY JOS! 2 Vellowstone Ju¢ 48 Black John, the Ky ts 65 Wurriceane Bill; Va 119 Muatang Sam; or, aa 186 Night-linwk Kit; 144 Dainty Lance the ly ort. 151 Panther Paul; or, Minty Lance to the Reacue, 160 The lack Glantys or, Dainty Lance fn Jeopardy, 168 Deadly Dash or, Fighting Fire with Fire, 184 The Boy Trailers; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path, 208 The Boy Pardsy or, Dainty Lance Unmaska, 211 Croeked Cale, the Caliban of Celestin! City. 810 The Barranca Wolf; or, The Beautiful Decoy. 819 The Black Rider; or, The Horse-Thieves’ League, BBS Old Double Fist; or, Vhe Strange Guide B55 ‘Che King of the Weods!: or Damel Boone’s Last Trafl. 449 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective 625 Chincapin Dan, the Boy Trafler. 677 Chineapin Dan's Second Trail. OChincapin Dan's Home Stretch. Old Crazy, the Man Without na Head, Ligh rt Lute’s Legacy. Light-lWeart Lute’s Last Trail. Silverblade, the Shosbone. Silverblade, the Half-Blood; or, The Border Beagle at Bay. Silverblade, the Hostile; or, The Border Beag!o’s Tratl, Sliverblade the Friendly; or, The Border Beagle’s Boy Pard BY EPWARH WILLETT Aan Scott, the Steamboat Boy; or, The Miesissipp! Pirates, Featherweight the Boy Champion of the suskingum, 228 Ovark AL’; or, Featherweight Among the Outlaws, QS82 The Typo Detective; or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp, 295 Fearloss Phils or, The King of Quartzville. 811 The Roving Sport; or, The Pride of Chuckaluck Camps 822 Nemo, the Detective; or, Kit Kenyon's Vendetta, 840 Clip the Contertiontiat: or, The Montana Vigilantes, BY JACK FARRAGUT. 815 Ned, the Cabin Hoy; or, The Witch of the Fort, 820 The Sea Sorceress, or, The Boy Shipper. BY LIEUT. H. DD. PEURY, U. 8 N. 176 Tho Boy Runaway; or, The Buccaneer of the Baye 180 Tho Sea Traller; or, A Vow Well Kept. 192 Captain Kit; or, The Mystery of Montauk Point, BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID, 78 Blue Dicks or, The Yellow Chiel’s Vengeance. ST The Land Thay ewe | or, The League of Devil's laland, 87 The Helpless Hand; or, Backwoods Retribution. 289 The Gold-secker Guide! or, The Los, Mountain, RY OAPT. ALFRED BR. TAYLOR U. 8, A, 191 Buffalo Billy, the Boy Bullwhacker, 194 Bulfalo BIl'’s Bets or. The Gambler Guide, BY CAPT, MARK WILTON, 256 Young Kentuck; or, The Red Laoso, 270 Blizzard Ben; or, The Riot at Keno Camp. 256 Josh, the Boy Tendertvot. BY MAJOR FE. L. ST. VRAIN, 292 Sancho Pedro, the Boy Bandit. 801 Leadville Nick, the Boy Sport. 812 KRedtop Rube, the Vigilante Prince. 88B Brimstone Bob, and His Lightning Horse Quartotte, 852 ‘Lombatone ‘Tom, the Arizona Boy of “Sand,” 859 Durango Pave, the Young Chanrnien Wrestlers 871 Kingbolt Chris, the Young Hard-Shell Detective. B80 Avalanche Alf, the Foothills Guide. 890 Jaguar Joe, of the Mountain Mail-Line. RY EDWARD &. ELLIS, 6 BU Biddon, Trapper i 8 Seth Jones; or, The Captives of the Frontler. 16 Nat Todd; or, The Fate of the Sioux Captive, 1 rne Frontier Angel. 98 Tho Boy Miners; or, The Enchanted Island, 182 The Hunted Hunter; or, The Strange Horseman. 254 The Half-Blood; or, The Panther of the Plains, 271 The Muge Hunter; or, The Steam Prairie Man, BY WILLIAM R. EYSTER, Dandy Darke} or, The Tigers of High Pine. Faro Frank; ty Dandy Darke’s Go-Down Pards MISCELLANEOUS AUTHORS, 4 The Wild-Horse Munters, By Capt. Mayne Reta and Frederick Whittaker. ® Adventures of Baron Munchausen, 2 Gulliver’s Travels, By Dean Swift. A Aladdin; or, The Wonderiul Lamp. 6 s 2 rior of the Ranch, GSS 698 TOS Tis TVW 29 Tso T45 167 199 Robinson Orusoe. (97 Illustrations.) Sindbad the Bailor. His Seven Voyages, The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinson Crusoe, By Juan Lewis. 88 The Ocean Bloodhound; or, The Red Pirates of the Carribees. By S, W, Pierce. The Roy Clowns or, The Arena Queen. By F 8, Finn, Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout, By Texas Jack. The Boy Rifles: or, The Underground Camp, By A.C, Trona, & The Rival Rovers; or, The Freebooters of the Mississippi. By Lieut.-Col. Hazeltine, 98 Kobin Hood, the Outlawed Earl; or, The Merry Mon of Greon- wood. By Prof, Gildersleove, 105 Old Rube, the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive, By Captain Hamilton Holmes. : 112 The Mad Wunter; or, 'he Cave of Death. By Burton Saxe, 124 Tippy, the Texan; or, The Young Champion, By George Gleenon. 128 The Young Privateer; or, The Pirate's Stronghold, By Harry Cavendish. 148 Sharp Sumy or, The Adventures ot a Friendlew Boy, By J, Alexander Patten. 227 Dusky Darrell, Trapper: or, The Groen Ranger of the Yel- lowatone, By Edward Emerson. 261 Fergus Fearnaught the New Yirk Boy. By G@, L, Aiken, 266 Killb’ar, the Guides or, Davy Crockett'’s Crooked Trat, By Enalgn C. D, Warren. Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid of the Clif. By Captain Comatock, Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadville, By Lieu- tenant Alfred Thorne. The &ky Vetectives or, A Boy’s Fight for Lifeand Honor. By Maior Mickey Free. Red Ralph, the River Rovers or, The Brother’s Ree venge, By Ned Bontline. Ralttmore Ren the Boothlack Dotective, By A, P, Morris. Gold-Puat Toms or, Ben's Dovhle Match. By @ H, Morse, } Oallfornin Joe’sa Firat Trail. By Colonel) Thomas Hoyer Vonatery, Billy Rombshell, the Cliff Climber. By F. 8. Winthrop, The Black Ship, By John 8 Warner. Comanche Dick and Hix Three Invincibles. By Henry J. Thomas. B82 The Cowboy Duke. By Edwin Brooke Forrest, B52 Aricl the Athlete. By David Droid, 585 Will Waters, the Bov Ferret. By 11. Enton. 682 The Dead Wetective’« Double, By Gerald Carlton, 721 Maverick Mose, the Arizona Detective; or, The Wizard of Urko» Pasa. By W' Lisenbe 208 817 828 809 Don Danton, the Man from Denver. By King Keone, of the U.S. Seeret Service Corps. A New Issue Every Tuesdays The Half-Dime Library is for salo by all newsdealers, five conta per copy, or sent by mail on receipt o slx cents enck BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York
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‘ = 4 ¥ . Me ah: P pines 4 en 14 zome inquiry to be made foy, Hach Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. I any advances, For gJ4x7 a ea heath tigen 7 ? ___ADLE’S* HALF-DIME* | IBRAR™. 4 # Double Numbers. ~—2=4 Terry entered, wou BY EDW'2.the res jyEELER. Deadwood Dick ywvela. Dick, the Prince of the Road. Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. Dick in Disguise; or, Buffal, Ben Dick in His Castle, Dick’s Bonanza; or, The .«antom Miner. Dick in Danger; or, Omaha Oll. Diek’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar, 1 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 7B Dendwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity ¢ me, the Heroine » : : ; 77 Deadwood Dick’s Last Act: or, Corduroy Charlie. Dick in Leadville. Dick’s Device: or, The Double Cross Sign. Dick aa Detective. Dick’« Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. Dick’« Home Hase; or, Blonde Bill. Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party. Dick’sa Dreams or, The Rivuls of the Road, Diek’s Wards; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel, Dick’s Doom; er, Calamity Jane’s Adventure. Dick’s Dead Deal. Dick’s Death-Plant, Dick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughs, Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. Dick’s Death Trail. Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick ef Oregon, Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flata Dick’s Ducata; or, Days in the Diggings. Dick Sentenced; or, The Terrible Vendetta. Dick’s Claim, Dick in Dead City. Dick’s Diamonda, , Dick in New Yorks or, A “ Cute Care.” Dick’s« Duats or, The Chained Hand. Dick, Jr or, The Crimson Crescent Sign. Dick, Jr.’«, I Dick, Jr.’a Dick, Jr.’s, Big Round-Up. Dick, Jr.’s, Racket at Claim 10, Dick, Jr.’s, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. Dick, Jr.’s, Dog Detective. Dick, Jr., In Deadwood, Dick, Jr.’«, Compact. Dick, Jr.’s, Inheritanec, ’a, Diggings. Deliverance, Protegee. Three. Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwoed Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood & Dendwood Deadwood Dendweod ? Deadwood Dendwood Gold-Duat Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dendwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dendwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwooa Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Danger Ducka. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Death Hunt. Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Texans. Deadwood Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidoog Deadwood Dick, Jr., on Itia Mettle, Deadwood Dick, Jr., tn Gotham, Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boston, Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Philadeitphia, Deadweod Dick, Jr., in Chicago. Deadwood Dick. Jr., Aflont. Deadwood Diek, Jr., in Denver. Deadwood Dick. Jr.'s, Decree. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin, Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Coney Island. Denadwoed Dick, Jr.’s, Leadville Lay. Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Detroit. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinnati, Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Nevada, Deadwood in No Man’s Land, Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dendwoeod Dendwood 6 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dendwood Jr.’« Dollara. Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Danger Divide. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Drop. Denadwoed Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in San Franeisco, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Still Hunt. Deadweod Dick, Jr.’s, Dominoes, Deadwoed Dick, Jr.’s, Disguise, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Deal. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathwatch, Deadweed Dick, Jr.’s, Doublet. Deadweed Dick, J Deathblow, paasweos peaperste Strait. omlwee sone Hand, Deadwood Defeat. Deadwood Jr.’s, Resurrection, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dark Days. Deadwood Dick, Jr., Detled. 7923 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Double Device. Dendwood Diek, Jr’.s, Deaperate Venture. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’*, Dinmond Dice. BY WM. G. PATTEN. Violet Vane, the Velvet Sport: or, The Jubilee of Jacktown. Vialet Vane’a Victory; or, The Jasper City Clean Out, Violet and Datay, the Posy Parda. Violet Vane’s Vow; or, The Crafty Detective’s Craft. Violet Vane’s Vengeance; or, The Wipe Out. Vielet Vane’s Verdict; or, The Game at Coffin City. Violet Vane, the Ventriloquist Vidocq; or, Sport vs. Sport. 750 Violet Vane, the Vanquished; or, The Life Strugg'e. 768 Violet Vane’s Vision; or, The Fiery Hand of Fate. A8Y The Diamond Sport; or, The Double Face of Bed Rock, 519 Captain Mystery ; or, Five in One. 681 Daiwy ware the Sport from Denver. 687 Old Bembshell, the Ranger Detective. #04 Iron Fern, the Man of Fire; or, Among the Vultures, 619 The Boy creme Detective; or. The Double Grip Witnean 641 Dismal Dave’s Dandy Pard; or, The Clue to Capt. Claw 651 Bound Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective 6823 Wild Vulcan, the Lone-Range Rider, 714 Old Misery the Man from Missouri. 774 Clear-Grit Cal, the Never Say-Die Detective. 789 Sam Sheridan, the Secret Service Special. BY COL. A. ¥F. NWOLT. 678 Headlight Narry’s Wazard; or, The Lightning Express etective. 691 Headlight Harry’s Haul; or, The Railroad Pards, 727 Headlight Harry’s Siren; or*Mad Madge. 759 Headlight Harry’s Heritage. 794 Headlight Harry’a Hunt; or, The Cache of Gold. 800 Biack Buckskin; or, The Masked Men of Death Canyon. 419 Kenneth, the Knife-King; or, The Doomed Six. 485 Little Lightfoot, the Pilot of the Woods. 828 The Dandy Sport; or, The King Pin Conspirator. BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm. F. Cody) 8 Kanans King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy! or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Deadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout; or, The Banded Brotherhood 68 Border Robin Hood}; or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust, ae Ped ligs sae} os ape goo (2 poet be’ BS LA oes ie P ; Kot - et Ba oR a le ele tale ho, BY EDWARD L. WHEELFR. Rosebud Rob, the Sport. 80 Rosebud Rob; cr, Nugget Ned, the Knight. $4 Rosebud Kob on Mand; or, Idyl, the Girl Miner. 88 Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance} or, Photograph Phil, 121 Rosebud Rob’s Challenge; or, Cinnamon Chip. Denver Doll. ; 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee’s Surround 281 Denver Doll's Victory; or, Skull and Crossbones, / 255 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, | 896 Denver Doll's Drift; or, The Road Queen. Yreka Jim, 868 Yrekn Jim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Life Lottery, B72 Yreka Jim’s Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up, BSS Yreka Jim’s Joker} or, The Rivals of Red Nose, | B89 Vreka Jim’s New Role}; or, Bicycle Ben. 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam. Detective Fritz. : 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game. | 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter. : Sierra Sam, 244 Sierra Sam, the Frontier Ferret; or, A Sister’s Devotion. 248 Sierra Sams Seeret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 258 Sterra Sam’s Pard; or, The Angel of Big Vista, 258 Sierra San’s Seven; or, The Stolen Bride. i “Fx<angaroo Kit. 884 Kangar 46; or, The Mysterious Miner. 889 Kange| 2Kit’s Racket; or, The Pride of Played-Out, sf Detective Stories. 89 Dem 2F ace, Detective; or, Life in New York. 69 Ee Boy Detective; or, Gold Rifle, the Sharprhooter, 96 Watch-Eye, the Detective; or, Arabs and Angels. 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 145 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Gir! Detective. 226 The Arab Detective 5 or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp. 291 Turk, the Boy Ferret. B25 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia, 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Nat Harry, the Base Ball Detective, 426 Sam Slabsides, the Beggar-Boy Detective. 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Doteetives. Other Novela by E. L. Wheeler. 26 Cleven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures, B82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot. 45 Old Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 568 Jim Bhudseoe, Jr., the Boy Phevix. 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 18 Jack Hoyle the Young Speculator. 5 Bonanza Bill, Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 8 Boas Bob the King of Bootblacks. 1 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows. NPAaw RY J, OC. COWPRICK, Brondway Billy Novels. 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 614 Broadway Billy’« Boodle; or, Clearing a Strange Case. 586 Breadwas illy’a ‘DiMikilty.” 657 Broadway WS ae Peath Kacket. 5679 Broadway Billy’s Surprise Party. 605 Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning. 628 Brondway Billy’s Dend Acts or, The League of Seven. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad; or, The Bootblack in Frisco. 675 Broadway Billy’s Beats or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. | 687 Broadway Billy tn Clover. 696 Broadway Billy in_Texns; or, The River Rustlers, 708 Broadway Billy’s Brand. 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Clever Deal. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand; or, The Gamin Detective. 785 Broadway Billy’s Business. 88 Broadway Billy’« Curious Case. 68 Broadway Billy in Denver. 2 Broadway Billy’s Bargain; or, The Three Detectives, & Broadway Billy’ Shadow Chase. 8 Broadway Billy’s Beagles; or, The Trio’s Quest, 786 Broadway Billy’s Team; or, The Combine’s Big Pall. 790 Broadway Billy’s Brigade; or, The Dead Alive, 796 Broadway Biiy's Queer Bequest. 800 Broadway Billy Balled. 805 Broadway Billy’s Signal Scoop. Other Novels by J. C. Cowdrick. 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Keys. 869 Shasta, the Gold King 3 or, For Seven Years Deaa, 420 The Detective’s Apprentices or, A Boy Without a Name, 424 Cibuta John} or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout. 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude. 506 frodiighs Ralph. the Prince of the Road. 524 The Engineer Detective; or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve. 548 Mart, the Night Express Detective, &71 Alr-Line Luke the Yeung Engineer; or, The Double Case. 592 The Boy Pinkerton; or, Running the Rascals Out. 615 Fighting "Tet the Chief of Chained Cyclone. meleIedoded 6 +4 Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective. 8 640 Bareback Reth, the Centaur of the Circle, 647 ay pewriter Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward. 659 Moonlight Morgan, the * Pizenest ’’ Man of Ante Bas. BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS. 589 Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Dead Set at Sflver City. 622 Tom-Cat’s Triad; or, The Affair at Tombstone. 681 Tom Cat’s Terrible Task; or, The Cowhoy Detective, 688 Tom-Cat’s Triumph; or, Black Dan's Great Combine. 546 Captain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike. 568 The Dandy of Dodge; or, Rustling for Millions, 576 The Silver Sport; or, Josh Peppermint’s Jubilee, 588 Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow 601 Happy Wana, the Datch Videcq; or, Hot Times at Round-Up 611 Bildad Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. 646 i al Gid, the Cattle-Range Detective. 657 Warbling William, the Mountain Mountebank. 665 Jolly Jeremiah, the Plains Detective. 676 2 ea Sam, the Lookout Scout. filly, the Gypsy Spy: or, ‘Fhe Mystery of Two Lives, 699 Rimple Sim, the Broncho Buster; or. For big Stakes. 712 The Meamertat Sport; or, The Mystified Detective, 788% Toltec Tem, the Mad Prospector, 745 Kansaa Jim, the Cross-Cut Detective. 761 Marmaduke, the Mostanger Detective. 778 The Ruatler ef Rolling Stone. 785 Lone Hand Joe, the Committee of One. $01 Kent Kirby, the High-Kicker from Killbuck. hey — BY COLONEL Pyilla TISS INGRAHAM, Detectepapick Doom. 2 Dick Doom’s Des» d rip; or, The Detective by Destiny. Dick Doom’s Der 0; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror. Dick Doom; or, T/@Y arps and Sharks of New York, 8 Dick Doom In Bzjpen; or, A Man of Many Maske, 798 Dick Doom in ¢ +10. Dick Doom in ® | Wild West. Dick Doom’s Gastn Sweep; or, Five Links in a Clue. 8 Dick Doom’s d gath Clue. geashing Charlie. Dashing Che ?“ie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trail, Dashing ChW/lic’s Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive, Dashing Clourlie’« Pawnee Pard. Dashing Charlle, the Rescuer. Buck Taylor, (Ruffalo Bill’s Cowboy Chief.) Back Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 7 Buek Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. Buck Taylor's Boys; or, The Red Riders of the Rio Granda, Pawnee Bill. Pawnee BUll, the Prairie Shadower. Pawnee Biil; or, Carl, the Mad Cowboy. Pawnee Bill's Pledwe; or, The Cowboy's Doom, Pawnee Bill; or, Daring Dick. Detective Redfern, Redfern’a Curious Case; o, The Rival Sharpe, Redfern at Devil’s Ranch; or, The Sharp from Toxaa, Redfern’s High Wand; or, Blue Jacket. Redfern’s Last Trail; or, The Red Sombrero Rangers, — Red Ralph. 668 Red Ralph’s Ruse; or, The Buccaneer Midshipman, 674 Red Ralph’sa Bold Game; or, The Wizard Sailor. 679 Red Kalph, the Shadower, or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. Butterhy Billy, (Buffalo Bill’s Pard.) 644 Butterfly Billy’s Disguise. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Express Rider. 656 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt. 662 Butterfly Billy’s Bonanza. Kent, the Card King. 5665 Kent Kingdon; or, The Owls of the Overland, 570 Kent Kingdon’s Shadower } or, the Card Queen, 675 Kent Kingdon’s Duel}; or, The Surgeon Scout, 586 Kent Kingdon’s Room; or, The Buckskin Avenger, Lafitte, the Pirate. 545 Lafitte Run Down; or, The Buccaneers of Barrataria, 560 Lafitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. 555 Lalitte’s Confession; or, The Creole Corsair. The Buckskin Brothers, 5620 Buckskin BI, the Comanche Shadow. 525 The Buckskin Brothers in Texas. 580 The Buckskin Bowers}; or. The Cowboy Pirates, 585 The Buckskin Rovers; or, The Prairie Fugitive, 540 The Buckskin Pardw Quest; or, Captain Ku-Kluz, The Royal Mian y< 508 The Royal Middy; or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. 507 The Royal Middy’s Luck; or, The Huntea Midshipmam 611 The Royal Middy’s Foe. Wizard Will. 450 Wizard Will: or, The Boy Ferret o: New[York, 454 Wizard Will's Street Scouts. 474 Wizard Will's Pard; or, Flora, the Flower Girl, 488 Wizard Will's Last Case; or, The Ferrets Afloat, Duncan Dare. 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 Duncan Dare’s Plot; or, A Cabin Boy’s Luck, 487 Dnnean Dare’s Prizes or, The Sea Raider. 441 Duncan Dare’s Secret; or, The Ocean Firefly. The Young Consapirator. 402 Isedor, the Young Conapirater; or, The Fatal League, 407 Isodor’s Double Chase; or, The Boy Insurgent, A12 Isodor’s War-Cloud Cruise; or, The Wild Yachtsman, Buffalo Biil. 216 Bison Bill, the Prince of the Reins. 222 Bison Bill’s Clue; or, Grit, the Bravo Sport, Dead Shot Dandy. B04 Dead Shot Dandy’s Dilemma, 808 Dead Shot Dandy’s Double; «7, Keno Kit. 814 Dead Shot Dandy’s Defiance; or, The Boy Bugler,” 607 Dead Shot Dandy’s Chiefs or, The River Detectives Merle Monte. 245 Merle Monte’s L: ap for Life. 250 Merle Monte’s Mutiny ; or. Brandt, the Buccaneer, 264 Merle Monte’s Treasure Ieland. 269 Merle Monte the Condemned, 276 Merle Mento’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, The Kid Glove Sport. 197 The Kid Glove Sport; or. Little Grit, the Wild Rider, 204 The Kid Glove Sport’s Doom; or, Buffalo Bill, the Pony Express Rider, ° Other Novels by Colonel Ingraham. 281 Ruth Redmond, the Girl Shadower. 686 Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scout. 602 The Vagabond ofthe Mines. BY? The Texan Detective; or, The Black Bravos, 5Y1 Delmente, the Young Sea Rover; or, Tne Avenging Sailor. 580 The Outcast Cadet; or, The False Detective. 495 Arizona Joe; or, The Boy Pard of Texas Jack. 487 Nevada Ned, the Revolver Ranger 468 Neptune Ned, the Boy Coaster; or, Pirate in Spite. 462 The Sailor Boy Wanderer; or, The Born Guide. 446 Haphazard Harry; or, The Sea Seapegrace. 898 The Red Clasped Hands; or, The Boy Lieutenant, BS7 Warpath WIL, the Traitor Guide. 888 The Tndian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island. 877 Bonodel, the Boy Rover; or, The Flaglesa Schooner, 287 Billy Blue-Eyes,, of the Kio Grande. 287 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 229 Crimaon Kate, the Girl Trailer; or, The Cowboy’s Triumph. 116 The Hussar Captain: or, The Hermit of Hell Gate, 111 The Sea-Devils or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 102 Dick Dead-Eye, the Smuggier ; or, The Cruise of the Vixen, 75 The Boy Duelist; or, The Cruise of the Sea- Wolf. 5 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rivel Lieutenants, 24 Diamond Dirk} or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone. 17 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccaneer; or, The Fugitive Yacht. @ The Flying Yankee}; or, The Ocean Outcast. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 806 Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. By Wm. G, Patten, 807 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Royal Flush. By E. L. Wheeler, $08 Dick Doom’s Death Clue. By Col. P. Ingraham, 809 Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. By King Keene, of the U. S. Secret Service Corps, 810 Broadway Billy’s Wipe Out. By J, C. Cowdrick, Ready January 31, The Half- Dime Library 0 for ante by all newsdealers, five cents per copy, or sent by mail on receipt of six conte eaeh, BEADLE AND ADAMEB, Publishers, 98 William Street, New Yorks