Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 815) (1893 03 07)
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S Se ? es, Seek Fe piallallall a alaitaialia| © ». ; S \ . \ WO WD a MMO, NINOGER UE =f) “a SERS . "sl Tf it Tl ati a alg: 4a HS Copyrighted 1898, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, March 7, 1898, Tt Entered as Second Class Matter at the New York, N. Y , Post Office, $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, Price, r.. VVV No, 815. a Year. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 cents. Vol. UXT. fe | . ch l | re Sie A a i } th \ | Mt \ {Kh fiat ( | j d a z | Mi | iW Hl | I H eA I HI / | The City Iain’ Big Haul. i me A | il BY J. C. COWDRICK, =| AUTHOR OF ‘‘ BROADWAY BILLY” NOVELS, ETO, | ihe A yl PATA i SS eee CHAPTER I. TWO CASES AT ONE TIME, ‘* WELL, that’s what I call a strange case,” observed Happy Harry, when the man had taken his leave. “© Yes, so it is,” Broadway Billy agreed, ‘It is about as strange a case as has ever come into a our hands, Don’t you think so, Seth?’ And the Silent Shadower nodded, ‘*pON’T SEND ME TO PRISON, MR. WESTON! OH, PLEASE DON’T SEND ME TO PRISON!” * Let us look at the matter, now,” the youn WAILED THE MISERABLE JACK, chief proposed, ‘‘and see what we can make
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it. Here is Hickman Shyrock, a well-known merchant of this city, who bas been in the habit of absenting himself from his family and his business frequently-for two or three days at a time, now mysteriously missing; bas been gone about two weeks, He was thought to be in Phil- a ipa where be bas a branch of his business, but has not been there at all, although it was understood that he was going there when he left home. His wife is anxious about him, and hgh us to look him up. Somuch for that part of it, ‘* Now, the man who was just here to put the matter into our hands, Spencer Witherton by name, is manager of Shyrock’s store in this city. He told us more about the man than is evident- ly known to Mrs. Shyrock; that is, that in nine cases out of ten when he absented himself from home and was supposed to be in Philadelphia, he has not been there at all, and no one knows where he was, His face, it seems, has been seen at his Philadelphia store scarcely once in two or three months, although he has been absent from home and his business here about as much as he has been present. But, he bas never been away for so longatime as now, and hence the family want him hunted up. ‘ That is the case in a nutshell; and I repeat, it is about as strange a matter as has ever come into our hands, There has been something mys- terious about the man all along, and in order to find him we shal) have to ascertain what that something was. Can we do it?” “Do it?” repeated Harry. ‘* We’ll do it, boss, or bu’st the harness trying, that’s all.” ‘‘That isthe way to talk, Harry; we have taken the case and must sift it if we can.” ‘* Well, what are you going to do first, boss?” “7 think I'll go and see Mrs, Shyrock.” ‘¢ And what shall we do to help?” “You might go tothe store and pick up any information that is lying around loose,” ‘*Good enough, We are in for it, whether it means a tame case or a hummer; it is all the same tous. Come along, Seth.” Silent Seth was ready, and the ‘‘ team” left the office. Business had been dull for a few days, and the boys were anxious to be upand doing, though the present matter did not appear to promise the excitement they liked, ; When they bad gone out Billy mused a little, “Tt is plain that Shyrock was not living an open life,” he reasoned. ‘‘ And it may Pg me to get on the right track, Where did he spend his time when not at home or at the store, and yet not at Philadelphia where he was sup- d to be? What was the reason for that game? There issomething crooked here, and Pll have to try to sift it out straight before I can hope to make much headway, Well, I'll go and see the woman first, anyhow.” He rose and prepared to set out, but before he left the office he had another caller, The visitor was a man, one about twenty-five ears of age, well dressed and rather good-look- ng. & Mr, Weston?” he asked, * Yes, sir,” Billy acknowledged, “* My name, sir, is Vance Willey; I_am head clerk in the banking house of Gaffner Stiverson, I would like to have you come with me to the bank immediately.” : “Why, what’s up?” ‘* Robbery bas been done,” ‘*‘ Have you notified the police?” “Not yet, sir; thought we would have you come first.” : \ * All right; I'll go with you; but you bad bet- ter let the police take hold of it, too,” ‘Perhaps we will; but, we'll see what you have to say about it first, and thenact accord- ingly It is a mysterious matter, sir,” ‘*Most such cases are, sir. In what way is this one mysterious?” “Owing to the fact that no damege has been done to locks or safe; the safe was opened by some one having the combination,” ** And bow many at the bank had that?” Only two; myself and Mr, Stiverson,” ‘* Have you seen him since the discovery?” “Mr, Stiverson is at home sick in bed, _ It is understood that he is quite low, too, I could not bother him with it.” ** Then it is out of the question that he took the money himself—I suppose it was money that _ was taken,” ; “Yes, it was money; about twelve thousand dollars in all; al) the bills that happened to be in when the safe was opened, like a a job. J ‘it, suspicion might fall u | upon you, being the only other who knew the combination. t about / etal ht ey i% ; Masa See. ‘one to a. Be a Leber se Bik a ih paver Oke Un eee ety Ba ae “Na eye wal Did he not have the combina- tion ‘“‘T am cashier myself, as well as teller and chief clerk, sir. Ours is not a regular bank, you understand; rather an exchange, or private ac- commodation concern.” ‘“Two remarks you have not responded to, Mr. Willey.” “ Eh?” “*T say you have not responded to two of my remarks, I suppose it is out of the question that Mr. Stiverson took the money himself; we will take that for granted. Then, the next one to jook to would naturally be you yourself.” ‘* Yes, that is true; I do not like the situation at all, Mr, Weston. {amas innocentof the theft as you are, yet I am the only one who knew the combination, in the absence of Mr, Stiverscn. I found the safe unlocked and open when I went to open it for business,” ** Only a little while ago?” ‘* Less than half an hour, I think; I came right here,” “Well, let’s go and take a look around and I'll see if we can pick up a clue anywhere,” They left the office and took a car, When they left the cara little walk brought them to the bank. The chief clerk led the way in, Billy following him and taking quick note of the clerks present. There were two of these; one a man of middle age and the other a ycuth of seventeen or so, and nt appeared frightened at what had taken place. ‘* There, sir, is the safe, just as I found it,” the cashier said, pointing to the safe as he spoke, ** You are quite sure you locked it last night, are you?” Billy asked, **Oh, yes; I never fail to make sure of that; I say to ryself— You are fast,’ when I turn the knob,” ‘* Just show me how you do it, please,” Mr. Willey stepped to the safe and locked it, word then trying it, repeated the words he had spoken. ‘* Not much chance for a doubt there, if you make that a practice,” remarked Billy, as he noticed how it was done, ** And I always do it that way, sir; Jones and Jack here can tell you that.” The middle-aged man and the youth both nodded their assent, ‘‘ Now, show me how you unlock the safe,” said Billy. - Willey stooped, turned the combination a few times, and swung open the door, No key was used, ; Billy was standing quite near, and had tried to catch the combination but found it im ble to do so. It was not likely that either of the other clerks'had ever learnedit. === ‘* That will do, so far as the safe is concerned,” he spoke. ‘‘ Now, how did the robber gain en- trance to the office?” ‘“* Another part of the mystery. Jack was the get here first, and he assures me that he found the door properly locked.” ‘* How many carry keys to the door?” * All of us,” — ** And Mr, Stiverson bas one, too?” “ Yes.” ; “None of you three allowed your key to go | out of your possession last night, did you?” ““We seem to be certain on that point,” an- swered Willey; and to that the others gave their agreement, ‘Tt isa puzzler si anything i pose ‘* Nothing.” “ And the amount missing, you said is twelve thousand dollars,” My > ““About that sum, K. oo give you the ean res in a moment by glancing at oks, Shall Ido so?” Y } td ‘No, no matter; it is large enough, Now, another point: was the money marked so that you would know it if you were to ‘see it again?” _ * No, sir; it was not,” ** How was it done up!” ' “In hundred, five hundred, and thousand dollar packages,” ** Were these packages labeled?” ; “Yes; the amount was on each, with my initials, V. W,, in blue pencil, on the band arourd the package,” “That is something to know, at any rate, though it is not likely we wiil ever see the we can come upon the thief true enough, You have not n the way of a clue, I sup- a. labels, ess b. Henne con ae Rivet ee | quickly, Is there anything further you can tell .“ And, since Mr, Stiversop cannot have taken piven nl fy pin : me? Ca, oe essa not, sir.” **Ts there any one whom you suspect?” Fikes et FE bet \ yy Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. *“ Not a soul. I am at loss completely. My fear is that suspicion will fali on me.” ‘* As it is likely to do. Can youclear your- self if it does?” ‘*T can only prove where I was during the evening, and that Ientered my boarding-house about ten o’clock,” ‘That will be something in your favor; and, I am well enough satisfied in my own mind that you are innocent. Who, then is the guilty one? **T only wish I could point him out to you.” _“ Well, let me take a look around here a little more closely, and then you may notify the police or not, justas you please.” With that Billy began to search around care- fully, with the faint hope that he might find something which would point to the person guilty of the crime. CHAPTER II. BILLY IS PUZZLED HERE, BROADWAY BiLLy had a double reason for his remark concerning his belief in the innocence of the young chief clerk, In the first place, he did believe him innocent; and then, in case he made a mistake in his esti- mate of the man, and he was guilty, he would feel himself to be the more secure, Billy reasoned that, had Willey taken the money, he would have taken care no suspicion could fall upon him—would have forced the safe, or atany rate left some evidence of regular bur- glary. Then, too, he would have had an alibi all ready at his tongue’s end, The search around the office revealed nothing, and Billy went out and looked at the front door, ‘through which entrance was supposed to have been gained, ‘* There was no mark there of any sort, but he hardly looked for anything of the kind. ‘* How about the windows?” he asked of Wil- ey. ** All fast,” was the answer. ‘* They are sel- dom opened,” The banking office was in what had once been a private house, and a stoop led up to its en- trance, By the side of the stoop was a grating, with a heavy rail around it, to give light to the base- ment floor of the building. There had been steps and a door, at some time, but they bad been taken out and the space solidly walled up. The basement was now used for coal only. Billy leaned over the rail of the stoop and peered through the grating in question, and as he did so an exclamation escaped him. ‘¢ Ha! here may be something,” he exclaimed. “ What is it?” asked Willey. ‘* Has the appearance of a skeleton key, How can we get down there?” ** Jack can go down, open one of the windows and get out and get it. Jack, you hear?” He heard, and was already going. Quite a group had now collected by the stoop, and each person was eager to know what priv the matter, but no information was given The youth was not long in getting down into the space under the grating, and immediately discovered the object that‘had caught Billy’s eye, speedily returning with it. It was a skeleton key, true rae Billy took it from him and tried but could not make it work, * Let us go inside,” he said, then, They entered the office, and the crowd without bh. t in the door, was left to form their own conclusions by what — they had seén, “This key has not lain there long, you see,” Billy called attention, ‘ for it is new and clean. It was probably dropped there last night. But, it will not unlock the door,” - “ Are you sure you know how to use it?” asked the middle age¢ clerk, Jones, ‘‘ Well, there may besomething in that,” Billy — admitted, And turning to the chief clerk, he added: r Bs) pi; ‘You had better inform the Willey, I think, and giv them where you found it, I will take hold, too, be eb quiet. That will be the better way, I think. fF ‘‘ All right, Mr. Weston; I believe you know what is best.” Billy took his leave, turning the matter over police, Mr. in his mind as he walked away. Atbought came to him and he went back. ad them this key, telling HM a sah ah as a f Hea tte g Aa “4 r Wd The chief clerk looked up with some surprise at seeing him again so soon, and came forward at once to learn the reason for his return. — _ What brings you back?” he asked, ae yw at tC iaLe a ay. Heats ¥ sg fs a RN cae a We 2 | 9M Sa a) vo el
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**T wanted to ask you if you have yet sent word to Mr, Stiverson about this loss?” “T was just in the act of writing a note to Mrs. Stiverson when you came in, ot know- ing how Mr, Stiverson is this morning, I thought it best to tell her and leave it to her to tell him,’ ‘*A good idea. Will you allow me to take the note to the house?” ‘“ Why, I was going to send Jack.» “On second thought, you need not write a note at all; just let me go there and inform the lady about it, from you. And if there is any- thing you want to ask her, { will return with woatever answer she may give.” * You have some object in this,” “ Certainly.” ‘* Well, you may do the errand, then, I will tell you about what I intended to write, That is, that the bank has been robbed to the tune of about twelve thousand dollars; no clue to the robbers; have put a detective*on the case, and have also informed the police. Tell her to let Mr. Stiverson know it when he can stand it. Also say that I shall have to draw upon our re- serve in order to meet to-day’s demands,” “ All right,” assented ag “ll carry the message straight enough. Nhat is the ad- dress? It was given, and as it was going to take him close to the Shyrock residence, Billy cculd kill two birds with one stone, as the saying goes, In due time he pulled the bell at the Stiverson mansion, and a servant opened the door, ** How is Mr, Stiverson this morning?” Billy made inquiry, ‘* He is about the same, sir,’ was the answer, ‘« Then he is pretty sick, I believe.” % Yes, sir.” “Ts Mrs, Stiverson at home?” 4 Yes,” **T want to see her,” ** What name, please?” ‘Weston. Tell her I am here from the office, with important news,” Yes, sir. Step right into the room, sir,” Billy entered the parlor, and presently the door opened and a woman came into the room, She was young, not more than thirty at most, and good-looking, with black eyes and hair, If this was Mrs, Stiverson, she was a much younger person than Billy had expected to see, for be knew the banker was a man well on in years. “Mrs, Stiverson?” he interrogated, ‘¢ Yes, sir,” was the response. ‘‘ You want to see me?” ‘Yes, madam. I am_here with a message from Mr, Stiverson’s chief clerk.” ‘*And what is the message? Something he desires to ask Mr. Stiverson? [am afraid we cannot bother him with business questions,” “Tt is for you to decide whether you will in- form him ornot, The fact of the matter is, the bank was robbed Jast night to the tune of about twelve thousand dollars, and there is no clue to the robber.” ‘Mercy sakes! You do not mean it?” ‘That is the fact of the matter, madam, hat do you think about informing Mr. Stiver- son ‘It will never do, The excitement it would bring would be too much for him, It must be ig) away from him, no matter at what cost, sir. ** Well, no doubt you are right about it, Mr. Willey wanted me to say he has employed a de- tective and has notified the police. Also that he will have to draw on the reserve fund in order to meet obligations to-day.” ‘** T suppose he knows what is best to dc; 1 am sure I do not, ou are not employed by Mr. Stiverson, are you, sir? I have never seen you ire ee , o; 1 am merely playing the part of mes- senger for Mr. Willey. Do you know of any Ve egg who may, be suspected in the matter, rs, Stiverson?” ‘*Then you are the detective?” “¢ What makes you think so?” * Your question, sir.” * Well, then, I am the datective! Can you point suspicion to any person?” ‘‘ Why, no, certainly not. I suppose it must have been some professional burglar, and what can I know about such?” “On the contrary, madam, it was nothing of the kind. The money was stolen by some one who had the combination to the safe and who could open the office door without trouble,” ' “ You astonish ine!” **'The door was found locked and all right, but the safe was open and the money gone. You see how it is, and that is why I asked if you can ley—” But she stopped. ‘*I think you are about to say Mr, Willey is the only one who knows the combiration. Am [ right?” ‘Yes, youare. I mentioned his name before I thought, I would vot cast a suspicion upon him for the world, sir; in fact, 1am sure he is innocent.” The woman’s frankness impressed Billy favor- ably. ‘** But, Mr. Stiverson himself is the only other who could open the safe,” he observed, ‘* Yos, that is true‘ [have heard Mr, Stiver- son say 80,” ‘*Can you show me his key to the office?” ‘‘T will do so if [can find it; I presume it is in one of his pockets. I will see,” She rose and left the room, and was gone some minutes, When she returned she had a large key in her hand, which she gave to Billy with the remark: ‘*T do not understand, of course, why you should want to see this key, but here it is, though I cannot permit you to take it away with you,” ‘* And why can you not allow that?” Billy asked, ‘* Because, pardon me, I do not know you, sir, Ihave only your bare word for what you have said,” , ‘That is true. Itis not my intention, how- ever, to make and such request; I merely want- ed to see the key, to have an idea of itin my mind,” ** Oh!” Billy had already looked at the key all he cared to, and gave it back. ‘““T presume it is needless for me to ask whether it was possible for this key to have been out of the house last night?” ho observed. ‘‘Out of the question, sir,” was the prompt answer. ‘It was in Mr, Stiverson’s pocket, and his clothes are hanging in a closet where they have been for ten days at least. It was there last night, of course,” ‘Well, here is my card,” and Billy rose to take hisleave. ‘‘If you should learn anything of importance, please send me word to my office. You must use your own judgment about telling Mr, Stiverson. I'll do what I can toward soiy- ing the mystery.” CHAPTER III, WHAT THE SON SAID, Wuen Billy left the house he bent his steps in the direction of the Shyrock residence, where it had been his intention to go first. And as he went along he was running the latest case over in his mind, See to get some- thing to work upon, but finding nothing, thus far. It had the appearance of a hard nut to crack, His object in asking to see the office key had not been so much because he wanted to see it as to ascertain whether it had been in the house that night, He was well enough satisfied that the wire key he had found was not the ons with which the door had been unlocked and locked again, “Tt’s a knotty one, sure enough,” he said to himself. ‘I can’t think Willey is guilty, and neither does Mrs, Stiverson, I did think that maybe she had had a hand in it, but now that I have seen her I have to give up that idea. Who, then, was it? Ishall have to dig deeper in order to find out, Well, Pll lay that case by on the shelf for the present,” He had now reached the Shyrock residence, This house was not more than three minutes’ walk from the Stiverson mansion. His ring at the bell brought a servant to the door, hardly necessary to say, and he asked for Mrs. Shyrock. He was shown into a room and the servant carried bis name to her mistress, who very soon made her appearance, proving to be a woman past middle life, ‘“‘T presume you are the detective Mr, Wither- ton spoke to me about last night,” she im- mediately greeted. ‘‘Ilam Mrs, Shyrock, sir.” “There is no doubt about my being the person, I guess,” Billy made res»onse, ‘for I am a detective, and it was a Mr, Witherton who came to my office and engaged me to look for Mr, Shyrock,” . 4 “Wall, what do you think of the matter, sir ‘** It smacks strongly of the mysterious,” Billy declared, : — ——— — - ; - Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket, 3 ** And so it certainly is, pose Mr, Shyrock can be?” ‘* Impossible for me to guess, madam. I must try to get some enlightenment by questioning ou,' ‘* Very well,” ‘* What were your busband’s habits?” ‘* They were excellent, sir. No one could find fault with him,” ‘* He was in the habit of going away frequent- ly, Mr. Witherton toldme, I suppose you know where he was at such a time?” ‘* Certainly; he has a branch of his business tn Philadelphia, and some of his time had to Le spent there, In fact, fully a ball of bis time bas been spent in that city for the past twelve ears,” ‘* There is no doubt about that, I suppose?” “None, I have gone with him a good many times, and at other times he has sent for me, when he had to stay longer than usual,” ‘** But, it seems, he has not been there this time, though he left home with the intention of going there, Can you tell me anything that will throw light upon kis possible where- abouts?” ‘““T am afraid not, sir, have been killed.” ‘*Have you any reason for thinking he has been killed?” ‘No, I do not know that I have.” ‘*How long is it since you were here last with your husband in Philadelphia, Mrs, Shy- Where do you sup- I fear that he may ‘Oh, it must be a couple of years, I should think, I disliked putting up ata hotel, and so stopped going.” “Did you go very often before that?” ‘Oh, no; maybe two or three times a year; certainly not more than that,” ‘* Tt was about twelve years ago, I understand ou to say, when Mr. Shyrock opened his branch in Philadelphia.” ¢'Yos, sir.” * And before that time what was his habit?” ‘*In what respect do you mean?” ‘¢ Was he as closely attentive to business in his one store then, as he was after that in both of them?” ‘Yes, ho was strictly attentive to business, Mr, Weston, When not at the store he was home, and when not at home, at the store, He seldom got out of the grooves of shop life and home life,” Billy was thinking within himself as he put the questions and he heard the answers to them. Mr. Shyrock’s irregularity, it would seem, had begun about the time of the opening of his branch store, and whatever there was mysterious about it now had had its beginning then, In order to get on the right track, he believed, he must go back to that time and learn all he could about the Mr, Shyrock of that day. By so doing, be might be able to pick up the thread that would lead to the solving of the whole mys- tery, He saw no other if ‘Have you a likeness of your husband?” he asked. ‘Yes, certainly; I must show it to you.” ‘*Tf you please,” She brought an album and pointed out the photograph of a rather fine-looking man past middle age, ** And how long since this was taken?” Billy inquired, “Not more than four years ago,” was the re- ly. “It looks about as he looked the last time Lente him.” Billy fixed the features well upon his mind,’ He would know the man, he believed, no matter where be saw him, When he had asked several questions, and just as he was about leaving, a young man entered the room abruptly, He stopped short on seeing a stranger there, ** Your pardon, mother,” he said, quickly. ‘* I thought you were alone,” ‘Stop, do not withdraw,” the woman spoke; ** this is the detective Witherton has sent to me— Mr. Weston,” “* Broadway Billy?” cried the young man, hold- ing out hishand. ‘‘ He could not have made a better choice, mother. I have heard a good deal about you, Mr, Weston, I hope you can be of some use to us,” **T certainly hope I may,” Billy responded, ac- cepting bis hand. “I will try, anyhow.” **My son, Mr. Horace Shyrock,” the mother finished the introduction. Billy had sized him up quickly, He was about twenty-four years of age, ata guess, and had the air of being a pretty fast young. man. ‘*Do you think you can find father?” he asked,
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4 ' ‘** Hard to tell,” Billy answered. ‘‘I must get on track of him before I can hops to do so,” ‘* Yes, trueenough, I only wish we could help you more than we can, but that seems to be out of the question, for we are at loss utterly.” ‘** Are you in business with your father?” **No; 1’m in for myself. ave a store of my own.” ** Mr. Shyrock thought it would be better for him to take a businesswpon his own shoulders,” Mrs. Shyrock explained, ‘‘so he started him, “ oe aavehiaa is aiming to work up as bis father 4 . ** Well, I must leave you, now, If you learn nything, please let me know at.my office,” ‘* We'll do so, certainly,” agreed Horace. “‘ But, hold on, and Pll go with you, forI am go- ing out. I just came in, mother, to tell you a iece of news. Mr. Stiverson’s bank was rob- i last night, and Willey has been arrested for the theft.” Here was astonishment for Broadway Billy. It was only a little time since he had been at the bank, and the arrest must have followed very quickly, ‘“*Is it possible!” cried Mrs, Shyrock, ‘ This must be kept from Grace, Horace, It will kill her, Surely, there must be some mistake; I can never believe it of Vance Willey.” “‘I guess it is true enough. Witherton just came from there, and he said the police had just come and made the arrest. Willey is all broke up over it, he says, and no wonder, forI haven't much doubt of his guilt; they found some of the stolen money on him,” Billy had taken it all in, quietly. ** Acquaintance of yours?” he asked. ** Yes; head clerk in the bank where father has bis account,” “ What leads you to think him guilty, before he has a fair chance to defend himself? * Doesn’t it look bad enough against him, when they actually find the money on him, or, at any rate, someof it? I don’tsee how he is go- ing to get out of it.” ‘And oe is the Grace you mentioned, Mrs, Shyrock ** My daughter, sir.” ** Oh! ell, I will bid you good-morning. Now, Mr, Shyrock, if ycu are going my way.” So Billy took his Jeave, Horace accompanying him, and finding the young man was on his way to his place of business, and that it was not out of his path, Billy proposed going there with him, While interested in the Shyrocks, it was well enough to learn all he could about them. “*T want to tell you something, Weston,” the young man observed, “and that is something I could not say in mother’s hearing, I happen to know that father has not been giving her a square deal all around,” ‘* No?” queried Billy, by negation. ** Not by any means, t I don’t know just what he wasupto, I thought I would post you, 80 that you needn’t give him away to her unless ouhave to. He has not been or road eT ial ce half as muchas she thinks he ‘‘Where then has he been spending his time away from home?” “That is what I don’t know. I have been talking with his man Witherton, and he has told mea deal, though he don’t know any more than I do when it comes to the point.” ‘** Well, can you tell me of any very intimate friend your father had? Some one to whom he woul likely to unburden himself, if to any- y ‘No, I can’t; father wasn’t that kind of a an “ What kind of man?” ‘One to tell his secret business to anybody. He was as close asaelam, and never told any- body anything.” “You don’t ve ap he was engaged in any se business of which he was ashamed, do ou ** Oh, no, I don’t think that; I wouldn't tell you, a detective, if I did,” “* Hardly to be expected that you would.” CHAPTER IV. HARRY AND SETH ON DECK. “In the meantime Happy Harry and Silent Seth had been playing their parts in the beginning of the game, though they were such as did not promise much excitement, Leaving the office they set out for the business lace of Mr. Shyrock, the address of which they ad, of course, “This here looks to me like a case, even if it isa deep one, as the boss thinks,” observed Harry, as they went along. Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. The Silent Shadower, with nothing to say, said aie ‘“*Didn’t ye hear what I said?’ demanded Harry. “cc Yes.” j “Then why didn’t you open your head and say so? 'It’s like talkin’ to a post, to talk to you,” ** You know I’m not deaf,” ‘* That’s all right; but when I talk toa fellow I want him to talk back at me, See? Now, what do you think about this case, anyhow? ‘* What's the use of thinking about it at all, till we get hold of something to set our think- ers at work? There, now, I’ve satisfied you by talking; please satisfy me by keeping still.” “Whew! what a speech fer you, Seth! But, you must think I’m mighty easy satisfied, if that will satisfy me, And as fer my keeping still—you might as well ask the wind to stop blowing. Covuldn’t do it, nohow. Have to keep my jaw wagging, since I have to talk for both of us,” So Harry rattled away at his usual rate, and kept it up till they reached their destination, without having said much of anything, in Seth’s estimation, Mr, Shyrock’s store wasa concern of some magnitude, as the boys found, and a clerk step- ped 4 to them when they entered. ‘* We want to see Mr. Shyrock,” said Harry. ** He is not here, sir,” was the polite informa- tion, *€ Do you know when he will be?” ‘* Impossible to say; he is out of town.” “That seems to settle it then,” said Harry, turning to Seth. ‘* What shall we do about it?” ‘* We shall have to come in again, I suppose,” was Seth’s decision, ‘* May I ask what your business is with Mr. Sbhyrock?” inquired the clerk. ‘* We cannot tell you, as it is wholly private,” answered Harry. “But, you may tell it to our chief clerk, or rather manager,” the clerk suggested, ‘‘ He has gone to the bank, and will be back again pres- ently. Mr. Sbyrock trusts all matters to him,” “We might wait, then,” said Seth, ‘* Very well; take seats and be comfortable,” The clerk wasa good sort of fellow, as the boys pareed, and they accepted his invitation readily. They hardly saw what wasto be gained by their waiting, but it did give them a good chance to look around the place and take note of the different employees whom they saw, While they were thus idly employed doing nothing, a man came into the store—one who was evidently no stranger there, He was about forty years of age, ratber stylish in dress and mauner, and one who bore the stampof good war yt 2 upon him in open sight, ‘* Morning!” he greeted the clerk. ni a pie aa ok Mr. Robiston,” the clerk re- n spo a ‘*Is Mr, Witherton in?” ‘*'No; he has gone to the bank, sir, He ought to be back pe soon,” “Tl wait. I dropped in to see him about that draft of mine he was to cash for me this morning. I suppose he’s gone to the bank to get the money.” ‘* Very likely he has, sir; I think I heard him mention your name to one of the boys as he went out, Hey, Harbard, what did Mr, Witherton say to you as he was going out?” @ man addressed was just coming forward from the rear of the store, “* Why, he told me to ask Mr, Robiston to wait, if he came in before he got back again.” **That is all I want to know, then,” the man Robiston remarked. ‘‘I will wait for him, since I have nothing on band at present.” So he took a chair at a little distance from the two boys, favoring them with a passing glance as he did so. Taking a paper from his pocket he began to glance at the items of news, He had not been thus engaged for many minutes when another personage entered the store. This time it was a younger man, one ha about twenty-four years of age, and who had air of being quite at home there, He glan around, and seeing Robiston, ad- vanced to him at once, ‘*Good morning!” extending his hand, “Hello, Horace; good-morning!” he was greet- ed.. The pair shook bands, and the new-comer also took a seat, ‘* Well, what is the good word?” the elder of me “a nr ly,” he response, < eve ove: was t “ How is it with youf” yi ‘““The same, I havedropped in to see Withe ton, but he has gone to the bank, so lam wait- ing for him.” . ‘ ** And I have come to see if anything has been heard of father yet.” ‘“* He is still missing, eh?” Yea.” ‘* Strange case,” ‘“‘ You are right it isa strange case, Mother 1 decided to puta detective on the matter at ast. “That so? Whom will she employ?’ **T don’t know yet. She had Witherton at the house last night, talking the matter over with him, and he was to see to it for her this morn- ing. “Why didn’t she let you do that?” ** Because I did not bappen to be there when she came to her deci-ion, I suppose, I am not as regular as a clock, like Witherton, and she knows. that, you see, I do not grieve,” Harry and Seth were taking this all in. They were getting some meat, after all, where they had expected little or notbing. Presently the man Robiston turned and favor- ed them with a stare fora moment, but found them attending strictly to their own business, not even looking in the direction of himself and his companion. ** How did it work?” they heard bim ask, ther, in a lower tone, “Fine,” was the reply, in the same guarded manner, * Tf that is so, it is all right,” ‘You bet.” “For, the rest of itis as perfect ascan be. Couldn’t be better. If it all goes well, your suc- cess is assured,” **7t will be up-hill work, I expect.” “Faint heart never won fair lady, you know.” “That’s what they tell me. Well, we'll see how it goes,” After that their conversation became louder, and they talked in a general way about various things of little interest. They bad quite a while to wait before Wither- ton put in his appearance, and when he came, it could be told by any one at a glance that he was excited in mind. Toe two — knew him, of course, having seep him at the office, and he recognized them at sight. He would have spoken to them first, but Harry gave him a quick signal, which he seemed to take in and understand readily, and at the same time the younger of the two men cried: ra what’s the matter with you, Witber- ton “Tm a little excited, that’s all,” was the re- ply. *‘Good-morning, Mr. Robiston, Iam just from the bank.” “They told me you had gone there, so IE waited,” said Robiston. “ But, I didn’t get the money,” “No?” surprised. ‘*No; for the reason that the bank has beem robbed.” ‘What! Stiverson’s bank robbed?” So both the v-en exclaimed at once, “Yes; and Willey has been arrested as the robber,’ ‘* Worse and worse!” exclaimed Robiston, ¥ can’t be guilty, surely; there is some mis- take, ‘*T don’t know; the case against him looks dark, though he stoutly maintains he is inno- cent,” Tell us all about it.” f Happy Harry and Silent Seth pricked up their ears afresh, since a robbery case came rigbt in their line, little thinking that their chief had hold of it P aoael ‘* Well, there is not a great deal to tell,” said Witherton, ‘“‘ but of course it is full of interest, It appears the bank was entered last night, and the safe opened by scme one baving the com- bination and about twelve thousand dollars taken. It was discovered by the youngest clerk, who was the first at the office. He found the door of the office locked. A wire key, however, was found down in the pit under the windows, No one but Willey and Stiverson himself had the combination, and as Stiverson is at home sick in bed it certainly was not he. Somehow suspicion turned upon Willey, when the police came, and they found some of the money on bim, He denies his guilt, but it looks bad, you see,” ** And so you couldn’t get my cash, eh?” said Robiston. **No, for the reason that there was none on hand, It will be all right, however, after a little delay.” “Of course. I’m sorry for Willey, but,
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if y Tam not so greatly surprised as I might ha ly, L » be, knowing certain things as I do. He has heen cutting a pretty high figure for some time.” ** That so?” ‘IT have noticed that, too,” said Horace, '* but I wouldn’t want it to get out, for I would not want to appear against him,” “Oh! nor I, either!” cried Robiston, “It was just a remark. I wouldn't tell it where it could get to the ears of the detectives, for it is no funeral of mine, as the pat saying is.” ‘‘Will it shut up the bank, do you think?” asked Horace, **Oh, no; the man Jones is capable of running it; in the absence of Willey, and no doubt he will take hold,” “Well, I’m disappointed, but can wait,” ob- served Robiston, “I'll drop in again to-mor- row, Witherton, Are you going my way, Horace?’ Horace was, and they left the store together, hing Witierton gave attention to Harry and r) CHAPTER V, HARRY AND SETH SLIP UP. “ Well, what brings you here?” he asked, ‘*We put our feet into it and bad to wait till zou came, to carry out our game, sir,” answered arr ae What do you mean?” ‘© Well, you see, the boss sent us here to size up the shop, so to say, and we made it our ex- use to ask for him when we came in, and as he wasn’t to be seen, and as you had gone out, we said we'd wait.” *Tsee, But, what did Mr. Weston think to gain by sending you here?” ** Anything we could pick up. He likes to begin a case by knowing all about it in the first lace. He wanted to know all he could about r. Shyrock and his business, and the men he bas in his employ. Wehave got about all the points we want, so we'll go.” ** And what have you got?” ** Not much of anything, forafact, But, say, Mr. Witherton—” “ Well?” } ‘* Who were those men who were just here?’ **Why do you ask that? What have those men got todo with the case I have given your chief?” ‘*T ask because we want to know, that’s all, Don’t reckon they haye got anything to do with the case, but we never let anything slip when we are on the lay for points.” ** Well, one was Mr. Beaumont Robiston, and the other was Horace Shyrock, son of the miss- ing man,” ‘We got onto his identity all right, but not @other fellow’s just as hard as we wanted to. W hat does he do for a living?” ** Which one?” ‘‘Mother fellow.” ** Nothing; he is a wealthy man.” “That's it, eh? Well, that’s all, I guess, un- Jess Seth here has something to inquire about,” Seth shook his head in the negative, ‘You sev,” said Harry, “Seth #s bashful, and I have to talk for both of us when we are out, Well, that’s all, I guess, for this time, We'll pedestrianate, if you don’t kick,” “Go or stay, just as you please. If Broad- way Billy thinks there is anything to be gained by watching here, you are at liberty to camp right here for a week, if you want to. You won't find» out anything further than I have told him, though, for there is nothing further to be found out.” ‘* We agree with ye, boss, At the same time, though, no need to let on who we are or what our business was, We gave out that we want- ed to see Mr. Shyrock on some special matter.” ‘** All rigbt, no_one need know who you aro. You heard what I said about the bank robbery just now, of course,” “Cert,” “* Well, your boss has taken hold of that al- ready.” ‘‘Whoop-ee! Is that go? Seth, here’s a double case on band, sure as you live. We may get some ’citement out of it yet,” Though Harry spoke enthusiastically he spoke in low tone, “ We'll never get anywhere or do anything,” observed Seth, ‘if we stay here all day to the tune of your chin,” ‘‘The dumb speaks!” cried Harry. ‘ Never aad unless he bas something to say, either, ‘(Guess he has said it this time. Well, come on, then, silent one, and I'll bustle so tall that you will have hard work to keep up with nv,” Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. 5 Witherton smiled at Harry's playfulness, an= no one else could guess what had passed, Picea and Seth took their leave from the store. ‘* Where ty now?” asked Seth. ‘* Back to the home base, I s’pose; don’t see as we have any other lay.” ‘* Why not drop around to that bank and see what we can pick up there in the interest of our chief, seeing that he has the case?” * Bally! Just what we will do, and he’ll find that we are wide awake, even if we doliketo hug fast to the bed in the morning. We'll be up to him and he won't know it,” So, they bent their steps in the direction of Stiverson’s banking office, and just as they ar- rived they saw a young womanentering hastily. ‘* Wonder who that is?” quoth Harry. ** Wait, and I’ll run right up and ask her,” re- sponded Seth, dryly. ‘* Yes, do!” They weut on leisurely, however, and mount- ing the steps, entered the office, where they found @ policeman on guard for some purpose or other. ‘The young woman was at the window talking extitedly to the mau on the other side, ‘* And they bave taken him to jail?’ she de- manded. ‘*They took bim to the station, at any rate, Miss Stiverson,” the clerk made response, ** How could they do that! I know that he is innocent, Mr, Jones! 1 know he could not do such a deed. I will go his bail, no matter what the amount is, They shall not hold him!” ‘*] think as you do, Miss Stiverson, that he is innocent,” the clerk declared, ‘* but the appear- ances against him are terrible. Some of the money was actually found in his overcoat pocket. And then, who else could know the combination? Iam sorry for him, very sorry.” “The fact that money was in his pocket proves him innocent,” the girl cried. ‘‘ Heis no fool, and he would not carry the cash with him, if he had taken it,” Happy Harry gave Seth a nudge at that, and whispered: *¢ Horse sense, Seth, every time,” Seth nodded, ‘*T have toagrea with you,” the clerk had to admit, ‘* Bui, will the police look at it in the same light?” “They shall be forced to recognize the truth, Mr. Jones! I will employ the very best detec- tive talent in the city and have the matter sifted to the bottom,” “*T am glad to hear you say that, Miss Stiver- son, Iam bappy to inform you thet Mr. Willey himself employed Mr, Weston, called Broad- way Billy, the very first thing after the dis- covery.” ‘Further proof that he is guiltless!” the girl cried, ‘‘He would never have dared to invite the inspection of that young map, if guilty. I have read about him in the papers, and I con- sider him as good as the best. Oh! Vance is innccent, of course he is, and it isa shame that he has to suffer.” “Will Mrs, Stiverson ba down to the office, miss?” the clerk asked. ‘“T can’t tell you,” was the reply, nothing about her movements, down.” ‘¢ The reason I asked, I am taking full charge here, and would like to have her &pproval of my action, since [ suppose it is impossible to trouble Mr. Stiverson with the matter.” ‘* You are doing right, sir; do what you think is best.” With that the young woman hastened out and away, leaving the clerk and the officer gazing after her. “Who is thet?” the policeman asked. ‘Old Stive’s daughter, I take it, from what I’ve heard said,” “His daughter, yes; and as fine a young lady as ever lived, too,” ““Must have a liking for the young man, I should imagine,” “She has. What can I do for you, young gentlemen?” This to Harry and Seth. ‘Boss wants to know what’s the amount of the loss here, sir,” Harry declared, unblush- ing. He had to say something and say it quickly, and that was what popped into his head first of all, so out it came, ‘And who is your boss, as you call him?” the clerk asked. ‘“‘Mr. Robiston,” answered Silent Seth, as promptly as Harry had done before, He remembered what Robiston had said at the store about the money he expected that morning. ‘ “T know She may be ‘What Mr, Robiston?” demanded the clerk. ‘‘Mr, Beaumont Robiston,” Harry quickly supplied, catching on. “Oh! Well, tell him it is about twelve thousand, First time 1 knew he had any one in his employ, though.” *¢ Just au errand, that’s all,” explained Harry. ** Why didn’t you say so, then?’ *€ You didn’t ask.” Harry and Seth were moving to the door, glad to get out of an awkward situation, when to their consternation, the door opened and Beaumont Robiston himself coafronted them. He gave them a quick look immediately, re- membering them as the lads he had seen so re- cently at the store. Harry put his nerve right to the effort and said boldly: ‘* He says the loss is about twelve thousand, sir.” ~ ** What? What do you mean?” “The man there says the loss is about twelve thousand, We were just returning to tell you.” ‘‘Confound it, are you crazy?” the man de- manded, * ** See here, I want to know what it is you are trying to get through you, anyhow.” It had®been Harry’s plan to give this excuse for the benefit of the clerk and the police officer, and quickly get past the man and out, but now the way was blocked for them,” ‘‘Didn’t you send them here, Mr, Robiston?” asked the clerk. “No, of course not, Who says I did?” “ They do.” ‘‘Confound your impudence, then! What do you mean by it? What business have you to use my name? Here, officer, I bave an idea that these lads will bear a little closer inspection, “1 begin to think so myself,” the policeman agreed, stepping forward with bis club ready for business, ‘* Who and what are you, anyhow?” “T can answer that now, straight,” answered Harry. ‘We are a pair of the worst ninnies you ever saw, Take us and box us up some- where, before the fool-killer finds us.” ‘* We want a straight explanation out of you that is what we want, and no foolishness a ut it,” cried Robiston, ‘‘Mr. Jones, it may be that these lads know something about this rob- bery, and that they are here with no good inten- tion now. I think the officer had better take them in,” CHAPTER VL. AND HOW IT CAME OUT, HARRY and Seth were in a dilemma, Under his breath Harry was muttering all manner of imprecations against bimself, but Sath was taking it as coolly as he took every- thing. ts That is what I think myself,” admitted the officer, in rerponse to what Mr. Robiston had said. ‘t Young fellows, you are my prisoners, and you don’t want to make aby resistance,” ** Where’s your warrant?” asked Seth, “Right here in this stick,” was the reply to that, ‘“Maybe you had better go slow,” warned Harry. ‘ You might make a mistake,” ‘* What we want is a straight explanation out of you,” reiterated Mr, Robiston. ‘* What busi- ness bad you to come bere and make use of my name?” ‘“*T guess we had better give them the straight tip, don’t you think so?” and Seth turned to Harry. “Td like to, straight from the shoulder, if I were only big enough to do it, and no other way,” Harry growled, anything but ‘‘ happy” just then, : B ‘Take care!” warned the policeman, raising his club slightly. ‘‘ You are a young rascal, that’s what you are, and I'll have to deal with you as one, if you don’t look out sharp.” ‘Pm no rascal, but a fit subject for the insane asylum. If you take me in, that is going to be my plea; crazy as a bedbug! Or, worse than that, a natural born howling idiot. Don’t you think that’s a straight tip, Seth?” “7m half inclined to believe you are a fool,” growled Robistor. ‘ But, come, explain quick, or this officer shall drag you in.” “ Well, we'll tell you straight,” said Seth. “Thats whet we want.” ‘You are aware, I suppose, that Detective William Weston, known as Broadway Billy, is interested in this case,” “Thunder!” ejaculated Robiston, ‘‘ You don’t mean to say you boys are his two helpers, do you?” “That is the long and the short of it, sir.” ‘*See here, can you prove it?’ demanded the policeman. '
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‘*Guess we can, boss,” assured Harry, now, with his happy grin again on his face, It amused him to note the change that had come over their foes at the mere mention of Broadway Billy’s name, ** Prove it, then.” The two lads opened their vests, and there on the suspender of each was a badge that had been furnished them by Billy, badges telling what they were and referring to Billy as their patron, ‘That seems to settle it, sir,” said the police- man to Rohiston, as be drew back. ‘“ I have no desire to meddle with Broadway Billy’s team,” ‘*Then you think their story is straight?” ‘* No doubt about it, I guess.” ‘If you doubt it, just come along with us to the office,” suggested Harry, 8 9 nat boss will soon convince you,” added eth. : ‘* Well, if that’s the case, that you are his boys, of course that settles it; but, that don’t explain why you used my name,” ‘Would you tumble if the house fell on you?” asked Harry. **¥ou may take a tumble under something less than that, if you don’t have a care how you ad- dress a gentleman,” growled Robiston, *‘ even if ou are Broadway Billy’s cub, I don’t believe 6 approves of your impudence.” “ That’s a fact, he don’t,” Harry acknowledged. “But, to answer your question: You see, we thought we'd getaway from here without letting on who we were, and when the cashier there lighted upon us as he did we bad to have some excuse off-hand, and I gave your name,”. ** And how did you know anything about. me or ay business?” » " Why, we heard you talking at the store, and knew you had expected to get a boodle here this PTI anced i gee aaa iil hah aid their + “*'Yoes, that’s 80; aiid, 566 here: Have you been following me around this morning for any pur- pose? Because if I thought you had I’d break every bone in your bodies, sure,” ** What would we follow you for?” * That’s what it would puzzle anybody to guess. I merely asked you if you have been doing it.” ‘* Why, no, certainly not; looks more like you are following us, don’t it? We were at the store when you came in there, and we came here and here you walk in on us again,” ‘“*That’s so; but, 1 have better business than following lads like youaround town, It is plain that our mesting has been accidental, and it is all rigat, but you do not want to make use of my name again or you may get into trouble.” ** All right, we'll take the hint.” * Well, now that we know who you are, what have you learned about the case?” ‘* Nothing.” *¢ Which is equivalent to saying that you would not tell if you had.” * You can take it that way if you want to, but it is the fact all the same, this time,” “By they way, young men,” spoke up the clerk behind the partition, ‘‘ does your employer anow that Mr, Willey has been arrestad?’ ‘*Don’t know,” answered Harry; ‘ haven't seen him for au hour or more,” a ere rt I PL hee te era Od Ns rvygar Pree” HS el — 7 Sor a Sa ne An. Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. leaving the others to think and say what they pleased, ‘Seth, I want to be kicked,” said Harry, as soon as they were a little way from the building. ‘*And you deserve to be,” responded Seth, Why? ** Why do you want to be?” ‘For shooting my mouth off too quick, that’s what,” “ And that’s just what you deserve it for, too- It would have been all right, though, if Robis- ton hadn’t dropped 1n as he did.” ‘But he did drop, and so it was all wrong. But, Seth, do you know that Iam of the mind that the fellow isn’t as clean inside as he looks on the outside?” “That so?” ‘* Fact.” Seth waited for the explanation, and it came at once. ‘*That’s jest what I do think,” Harry de- clared, stoutly. ‘*There was no reason for his thinking we were after him, and if he hadn’t had a sore on his conscience he wouldn’t ’a’ felt it touch him. See?” ‘* Tt looks that way, Harry.” ** Christopher Columbia! Should say it does! May be nothing in it, but Pll bet he needs watching. ‘Seth stopped short. ‘““What’s up?’ asked Harry, in the same breath. ‘*Tf you think he needs watching, now is the time to take up the trail and do it.” ‘You are right, as you always are, Which shall do it?” ‘“‘ Toss up a cent to see,” “Up it goes,” sc Head \? And head it came down, and Seth was elected, So to say. “ Just your luck,” cried Harry. ‘* Well, go for bim and see how much of him is gold and how much brass, I'll go to the office and wait for the boss,” Seth was already adjusting a mustache to his lip, and that done, he put on a pair of eye- glasses and his disguise was complete enough to answer the purpose, It did not seem possible that so great a change could be made by so little alteration. “ Am I right?’ he asked. ‘© Yes; wouldn’t know you if I met youin a dark alley on a dark night,” Harry made an- swer. Seth said no more, probably thinking he had been giving too much play to his tongue as it was, but set off at once in the direction from which they had just come, \ ‘Well, he corked up mighty sudden, any- how,” muttered Harry, as he gazed after him. “That fellow is a queer one, no mistake, Wish 1 had his weight of brain, though. He’s got the real stuff in his head.” Harry ccntinued on his way, after that, and in due time was at the office. Broadway Billy was not there yet, but some- 9 4 else was, that is to say, was waiting at the our. The personage was a youug woman, one who was rather good looking, and who appeared to be slightly nervous in her manner, She eyed Harry clcsely as he approached the door. ** Do you neon here?” she asked, when Harry unlocked the door, ‘* Yes, ma’m,” was the response, to see Mr, Weston, ma’m?” ‘¢'Yes, Can you tell me when he will be in?” “Expect himatany moment. Will you come in and wait for him?” ‘*- Yes; for itis quite important that I should see him ag soon as possible,” She entered and took a chair, and there the waited in silence for the coming of the chief, Happy Harvy eager to learn what the new case might be, ST “ Waiting CHAPTER VII. BILLY REAPS RICHLY, IN the mean time Broadway Billy, conversing with Horace Shyrock, had gone with him to his place of business, He bad endeavored to get something out of the young man that would serve him as a clue, but had been unable to do so. It was evident that Horace knew no more about his father’s secret business than any one else, ES ge Fat ing, and he was willing to give him the benehbe’ of a doubt. : Oe Billy was shown into the young man’s private office, and Horace excused himself. He was not gone long, and when he returned,, said: ‘‘ Now, Mr. Weston, I am at leisure, and am ready to answer as many questious as you want: to put to me,” ; “ Well, sir, I have asked a good many already,” responded Billy, ‘* but have not been repaid for the pains, It is clear that you are as much in the dark as I am myself, so far.” ‘““T guess you are right in saying that.” ‘You have said you are not aware that your father had an enemy; that you do not know. anything of his secret movements; and in fact, nothing about him that is not known to every- body else who knew him at all well.” “That is about the size of it.” ‘“‘T suppose you remember well enough when your father opened his branch store in Phila- delphia?” : ** Ob, yes.” ‘“‘ It was about twelve years ago?” ; ‘*VYes, about that long, if I remember right.’” ‘““Can you recall persons who were your father’s most intimate friends at that time?’ — ‘Going away back there to strike the trail, eh?” ‘IT see you readily guess my purpose. Yes,, that is my idea, for it has only been since about that time he has been absenting himself from. home,” i * And you think you can find the beginning: of the motive? Well, you may be right, but am afraid you have come tothe wrong person to get your start. You know I was only a boy then ‘Yes, Iknow, but some boys at twelve are not by any means idiots,” : “Well, [can recalla few friends whom my father had at that time, but some of them are reek ce i ‘Name them, “There was Judge Grow, now dead; and Mr. Henry Wade, whereabouts unknown; and John Davids, dead; and—and—-Gaftner Stiverson, the banker now. That’s about allI can bring to mind.” “‘ Gaffner Stiverson, eh?” : ‘Yes, I know they used to be very friendly, and I suppose they are so still, or were before father disappeared.” a7 ‘Do the two families visit?” f “No; it was nothing more than a business friendship, I guess; favors done for each other at different times.” ‘Then it is possible, were Stiverson well, that he would be able to throw a little light upon the tter,” «Very likely he could tell you something that might help you.” j Then I must make it my business to see him when he can be seen‘at ali, if [ cannot learn in any other way. Well, I won’t trouble you further, Mr. Shyrock, or you will tire of me.” ‘No danger of that; call again, Mr. Weston; and, if anything turns up, I'll let you know at once, A few more words, and Billy took He had gained his object, namely, to get the his leave. name of some one with whom Mr. Shyrock had = been intimate in the old time, It was unfortunate for the caso that Mr, Sti- verson was sick, but yet fortunate that Billy bad another case on hand in which he had inter- est. It would probably give him opportunity to see the man as soon as wellenough, © . ec When he reached the office he found Harry and the youpg woman there. He glanced around for Seth, but made no in- quiry for him before this stranger, and Harry quickly said: ‘This, madam, is Mr, Weston.” Billy made her a bow, with the remark: ** Did you want to see mef” _ “Yes, sir, if you are the gentleman called Broadway Billy.” ‘ git handy name,” Billy admitted, — “That is my with a smile, * And it was Shyrock’s?” c Yes,” you who were recently at Mrs. “ Well, I am Miss Shyrock, I did not Bee you, but mamma told me you had been there,” “Then you have come. with some news of your missing father?” **No, not so, but on another matter entirely. — Yon heve heard of the ‘robbery of Mr, Stiver- — When they arrived at Horace’s store, Billy | son’s bank?” was invited in, and accepted, for he wanted to size up the young man leisurely, His first opinion of him had not been flatter- i by SF as JP ** And that his chief clerk bas been arrested?” 5 “ Yes, aie 5
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rf ‘ —— ‘in band, for me, and prove the innocence of Vance Willey.” Billy felt surprise, but did not show it. Happy Harry thought to himself that the chief clerk must have a strong grip upon the fair sex, this being the second young lady in- terested in his cause, ‘Can you tell me anything that will be pc a to help me in that task?” the young chief asked, “Not a thing; but, I do know that he has foes who would not hesitate to do him harm if they could,” * And youcall that nothing?” “Well, that is only a suspicion that may amount to nothing,” : ‘* Nevertheless it is something. Who are these persons whom you have in mind?” **One is Beaumont Robiston and the other is my own brother, Horace Shyrock. I hate to mention him, but I have good reason for doing so,” * What is that réason?” “Well, he is Mr. Willey’s rival for the hand of Miss Stiverson, whom they both love,” ‘* But, surely you cannot think that your brother would go to such length, can you? Be- sides, think of the crime with which Mr. Willey is charged.” t ‘¢1t is just that that makes me take the action do,” ‘* What is you interest in Mr, Willey ?” ‘Must [ tell you that?” *‘It were better to do so, The more fully I understand a case the better are my cbances for success,” ‘Then I will tell you. him.” ‘Whew! Now this is growing interesting, sure enough, You love him, but he loves Miss Stiverson,” ** Yes, that is true,” ‘*Then you and she are rivals,” “ I suppose so,” eo where does Beaumont Robiston come It is because I love ‘*You see, he knows I love Willey, and he himself has been trying to win my hand but has been refused.” **T see, I see; it is as good as a romance.” “Tt is a serious matter for me, Mr. Weston. I would never have made such disclosures to you, were it not that I think a full understanding of the situation may be helpful to you,” “You have thought aright, too. Are you aware of one thing, however?” “ What is that?” ‘“‘That, by what you have said, you have opened the way for suspicion in this robbery case to fall upon your brother and Mr. Rotiston, provided we find Mr, Willey to be innocent?” ‘‘T cannot help where it may fall. Let the guilty.one suffer. Of course, I do not believe either of them had a hand in that, mind you; I cannot think that of them; but, they are no friends to Mr, Willey, and if they cau use his misfortune against him they will do it.” ‘Then, your only reason for thinking Mr, Willey innocent is because you love hira and want to save him.” ** No, no; I know him well, and I know he is a man of honor,” tik ‘¢ And, by helping him in his time of need you hope to turn his affection to yourself.” *T cannot deny it.” ** Well, let me inform you, Miss Sbyrock, that I hav2 taken hold of the case already—” _. ‘What! You have already taken it? Then it was you who arrested him{| Then you believe him guilty! And yet you allowed me to go on and tell you—” ‘Hold on, pray,” Billy interrupted gevtly. “You are wronging me. It was not I who made the arrest, but the police;Iam of the opinion the young man is innocent, and was go- _ ing to try to prove him go,” "Oh, then I beg your pardon, sir. I was too bay ee “That is all right. Now, that you have told me so much, can you tell me anything more?” _ ‘“‘T hardly think so,” “Your brother and this man Robiston are _ friends, I take it,” “Yes;and it were better for Horace had he _ never met this rascal, Icall him so, because I know he is such,” . “ What do you know about him?” “For one thing, that he is on too friendly terms with the young _ and, more than that, _ has a wife somewhere,” wife of Mr. Stiverson; have a suspicion that he _ “ What do you know about Mr, Witherton?” ————— EE — and honest man, sir.” ** You know nothing against him, eh?” F Dosen af ** And tell me, can you give me any help to- ward the finding of your father?” “No, no; would that I could. But you have changed the subject, Will you doall you can for Mr, Willey?’ ‘“* Yes, I will do allI can for him, On your part, keep very quiet, and do not let it be known that you have been telling me so much. Let no one suspect that I know what I du.” **T understand, sir. Trust me,” CHAPTER VIII. SCORING MORE POINTS, A LiTTLE further valk, and the woman took her leave. No sooner gone, than Happy ear} ea ya ed to stand upon his head in the middle of the office. ‘ ‘* Hello! what’s the matter with you?” asked illy. ‘*That’s the way I feel,” Harry answered, leaping ligbtly from his hands to hia feet, ‘* Christopher Columbia! I don't know whether I’m on my head or my feet, anyhow,” ‘* You act that way, that’s true,” ‘*Crackers an’ cheese! that don’t half express it, boss. If I could stand on the tip of one ear and fan myself with the otber, then I would be doing something. We are on the trail of big ame this time, and don’t you forgetit, And that fellow Willey is a dead masher,” yt do you mean? Where is Seth?” “Told on, boss, don’t tangle me up; one ques- tion at a time, always, Tl respond to the second one first, Seth is on the track of the Beaumont Robiston this gal mentioned, and he’s loaded for bear, too, you bet. Ob! there is a son 0’ Ham in the woodpile some’rs, and we are going to have him if we have to sit up all night to get him, Selah!” ; es — is shadowing Beaumont Robiston, you a ** Sure, Mike,” ‘How did he strike his trail?” he following bim for?” “There you go again, two questions more, and I haven’t answered but one of the other pair yet. You are bound to get ine rattled, if vou don’t louk out, and then I won’t know where Tmat, Let’s see, where am I at, anyhow? By the way, that’s a great gag—where am | at, isn’t it, boss? I know a fellow that says it’s as common as dish-water across in Pennsylvania *mong the Dutch there. Newspapers must have thought they bad struck a new thing—” ‘““ Stop right toere, Harry, If I let you rattle on at this rate ]’il never get anything out of you. {f I talked at your rate when I was a boy, it’s a wonder I ever lived to grow up. Now, let’s get right down to it. What did you mean by saying Willey is a dead masher?” ‘*Choked me off, didn’t ye. Well, that’s all right. We'll get down to it, as you cal) it, I mean he’s a dead masher because there is another gal as dead gone on him as this one seems to be,” “That so? Who is the other one?’ * Miss Stiverson,” “ Ha!” **-You bet,” ‘* Well, what do you mean by saying we are on the trail of big game?” “Don’t mean anything I didn’t say, boss; that’s about the size of it, I have a notion. We think Robiston is a bad one, though we haver’t And what is got anything scored up against hia yet,” “Well, now, answer my last questions, How did you get on his track? and what is Seth following him for?” * That's it, that’s the way to keep me on the track, Well, you see, we fell in with him at Sbyrock’s store, and there we heard about the robbery and that you bad taken a hand in the game, We didn’t pick up much about the other case, SO we thought we’d drop around to thé bank and see if we couldn’t do something there, See? Well, we went to the bank, and there Robiston walked in on us again, and it came around so that be accused us of following bim,” But, Harry rattled on until he had given Billy all the details of bis and Seth’s doings, ‘I’m glad Seth is looking after him, then,” Billy remarked, when be had done. “ After what this girl has said, there may be something more in your suspicions than you had any idea ‘*T think somyself, I’m sorry that cent didn’t fall tother side up, though, for Seth is having all the ’citement,” , Sf: Never mind, Harry, I'll put you on another ay. ee: . ee A au > i ; ay, , Tye : Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. | ‘s * Well, I want to engage you to take that case ““Mr, Witherton? Oh, I think he is a good ‘© What's that?” “You can go and play the shadow on Horace Shyrock. If Robiston is in it, so is he, and one is probably as bad as the other.” ‘That’s the stuff! I’m not happy unless I’m on the bustle, boss, and the taller the hustle the better I like it, I'll sift-his ashes for bim, you bet, The jeebeeb hath spoken. Selah!” ‘It looks like a case that is going to amount to something, Harry, so don’t slip up in it.” ‘*Won'tif I can help it. Now I'll disguise and be off,” ‘* Yes, disguise well, for he has seen you,” Billy lent his assistance in fixing Harry’s make-up, and when the lad left the office he was not to be recognized, ‘Yes, if is a curious case,” Billy mused to himself, when alone, ‘‘ And it has the appear- ance of tryins to tangle itself up in a double hard knot, too. It began with the missing Mr, Shyrock, and now where is it? Igive it up— No, I don’t, either; that would never do; I must untangle it, with the help of my team,” Leaving the office, he went again to Stivers son’s bank, The policeman wes still there, ‘“What are you doing here?” Billy quietly asked, stepping up to him, ; ‘What is it to you, young fellow?” the officer demanded, surveying him in a critical way. The two were strangers, ‘ ‘“‘Itis nothing to me,or I would not ask, I’m Billy Weston, Broadway Billy, and I tave a finger in this pie.” ‘*Oh! that alters the case, Why, l’m here by request of the clerk there, who does not feel like takipg the reponsibility all on his own shoulders to-day, or at any rate not till he gets his grip on matters.” **T see,” ‘Say, were those your boys who were here?” ‘Yes, guess they were.” “‘ Nervy lads, they.” * Some,” Billy exchanged some further remarks with the officer, and then stepped to the window to talk with the clerk in charge. “Has anything new turned up?” he asked of him, ‘‘ Nothing, sir, unless you have not heard of the arrest of Willey.” ‘“‘T have heard of that, What do you think about bis case? Do you think he is guilty?” ‘*Tell you, Mr. Weston, I hate to think so, and that’s the truth.” ‘But it looks bad against him, eh?” ‘* Exactly.” ' . ‘* Tell me aboutit. How came about his ar- resi? ‘Why, the police detective who came here with the officers took hold with a snap, and ar- rested him right off, on suspicion, illey pro- tested, but that was no use, and finding he had to go along, asked Jack for his overcoat, and as Jack was getting it a package of bills fell out of one of the pockets, / “ Ha 1” ** And that’s not the worst of it. The police detective searched the coatand found two other packages there, and a ticket by the Central for — Cunada,” ‘* Whew y “What do you think of that?” asked the policeman, ‘* Tt looks bad, on the face of it,” Billy declared, ‘*They seem to have a case.” ‘¢ Don’t seem as if there is much use of looking — further, does it?” ‘‘Nu, that’s so. Say, Jack,” turning to the — youth, ‘that package of money was not in the pocket very securely I guess, was it? That young gentleman turned just a shade pale ashe responded: , ‘‘N—no, sir, sbould think not, sir. hook,” ; ‘“Well, you needn’t get frig just because a detective not yourself is talking to you.” ‘Oh! 1 ain’t scared, sir.” “Of course not. Do you know how much money was in that package, ing back to him, ‘“* Five hundred dollars, sir.” ‘* And in the other packages?” — “ The same,” ; “Fifteen hundred dollars, then, and a ticke’ tor Canada, eh?” f ** Yes, sir, “Well, now, don’t you think that is a little bit ridiculous? The amount missing is said to be about twelve thousand dollars” = = “They think he had the rest of it somewhere,” *% ned about it, uch older than wes It fell out just when I took the coat down off the — Mr, Jones?” turn- at Ue ein i) ad “ . Fs a oot ee jog? ih Fie “
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¥ ‘answer the purpose he had gone on leisurely to the store. . \ ‘“ Why did he not have this and the ticket with the bulk of it, then?” ‘*That’s so, it does look queer; I hadn’t thought of it that way atall. Itis funny.” ‘*Then you think he is innocent?” asked the officer. *© Yes, I do,” Billy asserted, ‘¢ Might he not have had this small sum by him just for ready money, and maybe sent the rest on ahead of him.” ‘Possible, but not probable, It looks to me like a put-up job on him,’ **-You don’t say!” ‘Yes, I do.” ** Who could ’a’ done that?” **Oh, I don’t pretend to say that; it’s only a ag gl iliy was looking sharply at the man Jones, but had to believe him innocent. His face had only a look of innocent surprise, And the boy Jack, he was still slightly pale, so that need not signify anything important. ** 1] never know Willey had a foe in the world,” said Jones, ‘‘and even if he had, how could he open the bank, avd least of all, the safe? That is the sticker,” “That is one of the points to be found out. But, if Willey had intended robbing the safe and skipping for Canada, would he not have taken the money and got away as quickly and as quietly as possible?” ‘’That does look mere reasonable, come to think of it,” the policeman admitted, as did Jones, “The fact of the matter is, the plotter has overreached himself,” Billy added. Well, I hope you are right, and that you can prove him innocent,” Jones declared, earnesily. ‘It remains to be seen,” rejoined Billy. ‘' By the way, officer, who was the detective who was here and took charge of the case?” The policeman gave his name, and with his new items of information Billy took his leave, He had a suspicion in mind that Master Jack was in the plot, CHAPTER IX. SETH STRIKES A SNAG. Sruunt Sera lost no time in getting back to the ueigliborhood of the bank. In truth, he bad not left the neighborhood, so that word hardly fits; but no matter,. He and Harry had come away only a short distance, not more than a few blocks, and he was back again in a few minutes, A little later, however, would have been too late, for bis man was jus’ leaving tbe bank when he got there, and Seth saw him look care- fully up and down the street as he came down the steps, Seth kept right on toward him at a moderate gait, The man favored him with a passing glance as he paused at the last step, but immediately turned and went away. The Silent Shadower kept on after him, as though he had no aim in view iu his walk, yet appearing to pay no attention to anything as he paased along. _ Robiston’s destination was the Stiverson man- sion. Seth managed his game so well that he fol- lowed hirn all the way without arousing a sus- picion, as he believed. There he was done, though, for think as he ' would he could devise no plan by which to gain entrance to learn anything of the man’s busi- ness there, Robiston was in the house about half an hour. When he res ppeared Seth bad changed his dis- guise enough to escape\detection as the same person the man had seen when leaving the bank, and was successful in keeping his manin sight to the store of Horace Shyrock. . On the way there be bad made up his mind to ove thing, and that was, that he had not per- formed much work of any value thus far. What would it benefit his chief to know mere- ly that Robiston had paid a visit to the Stiver- son mansion? He was determined, if possible, to learn more at the next place of destination. When he saw his man enter the store, be thought: “* Well, there he has gone, and how am I going ‘to carry out my resolve? If Igo in there Dll have to have an excuse for doing so, and what _ will it be?” That puzzled him. While trying to hatch up something that would He turned in, without having as yet made up his mind to anything definite, and as he did soa card in one of the windows caught his eye, “SHIPPING CLERK WANTED,” He had it! Entering boldly he looked around him in his ever cool and calm manner, taking note of every- thing to be seen, He saw Robiston and Horace Sbyrock taiking together a little at one side, and knew their con- versation bad but fairly begun, since Robiston bad entered only a minute or so abead of him. He was not left long alone to reflect, for a clerk came forward to him, ‘¢ Something I can do for you?” he asked, ‘“Do you want ashipping clerk?” asked Seth in return. - ‘¢- Yes,” was the rejoinder. job?” ‘Thought I’d see about it.” ‘‘ Very well, that gentleman there is the es prietor; he will attend to you as soon as he Is at leisure.” * All rizht.” Tho clerk left Seth with that, and Seth moved slowly over in the direction of where Robiston nd young Shyrcck were standing. He was looking at the goods displayed.as he did so, and it would have been hard for any ons there to have guessed his real object, Seth was careful when on @ case, It was not long ere he was near enough to hear what was being said, ‘‘ The same boys?” he heard Horace question, ‘¢ Yes, the same,” *¢ Tt does look queer, that’s the fact.” ‘And it is just so queer that lam uneasy about it, I tell you that.” ** Don’t see why you need be,” ‘¢ Maybe I wouldn't, if it was anybody else but Broadway Billy.” ‘Then you own you are afraid of him?” sec doss. ‘You are getting frightened before you are hurt, What barm can he do you, I should like to know?” ‘*So would I, too. You know what that fel- low is, the very.devil at springing surprises, and that is what makes me uneasy aboutit, How is it be is mixed up in things so soon?” ‘‘ My belief is that you are neadlessly alarm- ed. Maybe the story the lads told was straigbt.” ‘““Maybe it was; it is the uncertainly that troubles me.” ‘¢ Well, I don’t mean to go into mourning till somebody dies, that is sure; you may do as you please about it.” *t We must see the young fellow as soon as we ot Why ” ‘He looks weak and will need bracing up.” ‘Don’t think he will blow out, do you?” ’ ‘*No, maybe not that; but it wouldn’t take much pulling to draw him out or muchcfa scare to scare bim out, either.” ‘That must not be allowed, We'll meet him promptly at the time and place we named, and give him something to put in his pocket to lend him courage. Too bad we had to use him,” “You are right; but his own safety will make it necessary for him to keep a still tongue.” Just then Horace observed Seth. ‘* What do you want, young fellow?’ he de- manded, Seth turned himself around in his slow way and looked at the questioner, ‘* Speak to me?” he asked. sc Yes,” “Weil, I see by the sign in the window that you want a shipping clerk,” “* And you want the job?” “‘ That's according to—” “To what?” . *“ What there isin it.” | ‘‘Oh! Well, sit down there, and I'll talk with you presently,” He indicated a chair that was a little further away than where Seth had been standing, so the Silent Shadower learned no more from their conversation then. * Do you want the What he did note, however, was that Robiston- cast a glance in bis direction now and again, and he half feared that he had been recognized. That suspicion, however, was presently brushed away. . Tie two men finally shook hands, and Robiston took hisleave. " ~—_ Shvrock then turned to Seth, saying: ‘* Now, sir, come with me into the office and Pll talk with you about the position.” Seth rose and followed him, When they entered the little office young Shy- Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. a SS ee 6 eee Ss Se ee ———— EES + ——_——$<—————um—— rock closed the door but did not latch it, leaving " it about an inch ajar. The Silent Shadower noted it, but thought notbing of it, It was probably his way of leaving the door, he thought, and thought nothing further about it. ‘*Now, then, what is your name?” the young merchant asked, *€ Mart Sethin, sir.” ** How old?” “ Twenty.” **- You look young, even with a mustache.” “Twenty isn’t nere old.” “That’s true. ell, what experience have you had?” ** None,” Seth wanted to be refused the place as quickly as possible, He wanted to be off after Robiston, to take up the trail again, He would have followed him from tie store at once, but to have done so, he thought, would have been to arouse the suspicions of young Sbyrock, and that he did not want to do. “What!” the young merchant exclaimed. ‘You come to get a place ina line of business you know nothing about!” ** Hverybody has todearn, sir, and I thought I could pick it up pretty quick, as your store is nota big one. If you don’t want me, though, Tl go—” The door opened and Robiston stepped in, Silent Seth felt at once that he was in for it, that he had been recognized after all. Robinston closed the door after him, and secured it, ‘* Well, what have you got to say this time?” he demanded, looking keenly at Silent Seth. ‘*T don’t know what you mean, sir,” Seth re- sponded, blankly, as cool as icein bis manner, “That won't go down, sonny, for I know yov,” cried the other. ‘You can’t fool me again,” Seth looked at Shyrock in a wondering wey. “ What does he mean?” he asked, ‘““T guess he'll tell you fast enough,” was the stern, grim answer, “Yes, I will tell you,” cried Robiston, ‘I mean that you are ove of Broadway Billy’s cubs, and that 1 mean to know why you are shadow- ing me,” Both was now upon his feet, but there was no chance for escape. ‘‘Are yon crazy, sir? or am I dreaming?’ he asked, in the most puzzled manner he could assume, ~ ' ‘‘] begin to believe it is a mistake, Beau- - mount,” young Shyrock spoke up. / Seth’s playing had convinced bim, *“ Well, you can bet I’m going to be sure before Ilose him,” cried the otber, showing he hada doubt himself, He stepped forward, and before Seth could guess bis intention had laid hold upon his false mustache and pulled it sharply, and it came off in bis hand, d ‘* Ha! what did I tell you?” he cried, ‘““That was a pretty quick shave, anyhow,” observed Seth, quietly. The two men confronted him menacingly, but me cool Jad did not show the least degree of arm, CHAPTER X. HARRY AND SETH DISHED. WHEN Happy Harry left the office with his latest commission, he set off in the direction of Horace Shyrock’s store, This was a case that was not proving exciting enough to suit his taste, but he was determined to get all the interest out of it that was to be had, at the same time doing his best work in . Biily’s behalf, ‘*Christopher Columbia!” he exclaimed to himself by the way, ‘‘ I wish something would turn up to make ’er whoop. It would be a relief to get into a consarned diffikilty, if notbin’ more. S’pose it would be a relief to get out again, too; it ’most always is.” He was in disguise, as we know, but all the same when he drew near to his destination he began to use caution, : Glancing at the numbers, he picked out the store before he came to it. As he drew nearer a sudden surprise was sprung upon him, or sprung itself upon him—to be exact, Beaumont Robiston came out of the store and turned down the street toward the avenue from which Harry had just come, and a meeting seemed certain, : Harry felt secure from recognition, and kept steadily on. : At the same time he was looking around for
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= Py .4, for, finding Robiston here, he knew the r silent Shadower could not be far away, unless _~ he had missed his game, _ Seth was nct to be seen then, however, as we know, 80 he looked in vain, and not seeing him, gave his attention quietly to the suspect, who Was now upon him but who did not notice him. They had almost met when Robiston stopped short, as though he had forgotten something, and retraced his steps, thus bringing Harry in, following close upon his heels, The man turned into the store again, and there was nothing for Harry to do but to keep straight on, which he did. When be had gone a little distance he looked back, The man was out of sight, ‘Well, guess he didn’t tumble to me, any- how,” the lad told himself, ‘‘ And I don’t see how be could, either, for I hardly know who I am. Crackers an’ cheese! wonder where that deaf and dumb pard of mine is? Should think he’d orter be’round here some’rs, But mebbe he has failed to connect, so I reckon I'd better take hold and see what’s to bo found out, s Reckon ll ’ply for that position; I see they - —-want a clerk of some sort,” With that in mind he turned and went back “Ss to the store and entered, This was about the time when Seth stood forth unmasked before the two men in the pri- vata office, cs ‘*Who would have dreamed it?” exclaimed 48 young Shyrock. p ; y ** What did I tell you?” demanded Robiston. “Tt looks like it now, sure enough,” ** And what's to be done?” ** Give it up.” Silent Seth stood calmly by awaiting their decision in his case, “Curse you!” and Robiston turned upon him fiercely; ‘“‘ what do you mean by it, anyhow?” ** Mean by what?” Seth quietly asked, **You know well enough what, What do you mean by playing the spy upon me?” ** Can you prove that I have been doing that? “Prove it, hang you! what more proof is wanted?” **T don’t know; how much have you got?” _ “But you area cool one, Wasn’t you at the bank when I was there? and now are you not here? I wasn’t at the bank ten minutes, and came from there here—yes, I came from there Peait here.” , TI didn’t, and that's the difference,” ‘ “ Where did you go first, then?” ** Don’t know that I need to tell that; I made a change of disguise and took up,a new thread,” ‘Then you mean to say you met here by chance?” \ * Looks so, don't it?” ‘* No, Dll be hanged if it does, I believe you have been following me, and I am going to pun- ish you as you deserve,’ __ “Better go slow till you are sure you are “Tight,” Seth quietly warned, ‘ You might put your footin it if you don’t watch out where you step. When you punish me you strike Broadway Billy.” ‘Well, then, if you didn’t follow me here, what brought you here?” : i **Don’t see that I’m bound to answer your _ questions,” ___ “You'll see something you won’t want to see, if you don’t answer them, mind you that.” “Tf you have so much suspicion that I’m af- ter you, tbe can come along with me to the _ office, and the boss will tell you what l’m here for, You must have some reason to fear a de- ' tective, haven’t you?” ' Robiston lifted bis fist as if he would strike a lad to the floor, but he thought better of -“T ought to knock you down for such an in- sult to a gentleman, And, jet me warn you here and now, if I meet you again under sus- picious circumstances, I will do it, too,” - * Then I hope we won’t meet, sir.” At that juncture some one tried the door. __Shyrock opened it, and into the oftice stepped Happy Harry in his disguise, Of course Silent Seth recognized him immedi- gal. having seen the same disguise often be- ore, _ 4* Well?’ young Shyrock sharply interrogated, “* Guess I’m too late for the job, by Tho iboka f things,” Harry observed, as he looked around, “What do you mean?” _ “Why, you have a card up that a clerk’s - ‘wanted here, but I s’pose this chap has got the job. He looks sort 0’ guilty.” _ Witha sudden movement Robiston stepped rward and made a ee at Harry’s head, atching off the wig he had on, hat and all, un- a me Ye ; is ree ER aad oat ed : 4 ar a LR ,! te ; a oo Ne ee ere en i enna or ‘ a a MR a POST, TROP he pe ne him as completely as he had done for Seth. “ Cbristopber Columbia!” cried Harry. ‘‘ Don’t you know any better’n that? I guess you don’t know what good manners are, do ye? Where was you brought up, anybow? How would you like for me to do that ter you? Don’t you do the same with my other hair, or somethin’ will drop, The jeabeeb hath spoken. Selah!” * You see,” cried Robiston, turning to Shy- rock, ‘* here are both of them, and I know there is something in the wind. Id like to know what itis, If they are following me for any purpose they are playing on the wrong harp, that is a dead open-and-shut, And I want to tell you as I have just told your partner, young fellow,” to Harry, ‘if [run up against youagain something is going to happen,” **Crackers an’ cheese!” cried Harry, ‘‘ Ain't somethin’ allus happecin’? That is what makes the world jog along the way it does, <You once let things stop happenin’, and seo where we'll come to, Itis the unexpected that’s allus hap- penin’, too, Who'’d’a’ thought when I came in here to ply for a job that I was going to lose my scalp? ft dian’, youbet, There are more strange things in the world than you ever dreamed of, and this was one. But, say, what has got it into your head co hard that we are follering you?” “You have no need to ask that; it shows for itself, Don’t let this happen again, that’s all.” ‘¢ Christopher Columbia! as if 1 could help what bappens.” ‘* See bere,” spoke up Horace, “Well?” “You both say you didn’t follow Mr, Robis- ton? “That's what I say, anyhow,” Harry de- cleared. ‘' S’pose Seth has spoke for himself,” ‘Well, if you did not follow him, and have not been following him, what has brought you here in this manner? It looks as though you are shadowing me.” ‘Pretty good guess,” said Harry, cheerfully. ‘¢ What! you mean to say you are?” ‘‘We came here to look around your store, anyhow; next thing to it.” “And what was that for? Seems tome you are making yourselves pretty fresh, don’t you?” ‘© We are only carrying out orders, that’s all. But, maybe you wouldn’t want me to speak right out before this gentleman here,” *‘- Yes, you can speak right cut beforehim, I[ am bound to know what has brought you here, now that he is done with you. Give me your story, and give me it straight as a stick, too.” ‘© Well, you’ve got it,” ‘No, I haven’t; I want to know why you are here, Harry had exchanged a signal with Seth, and knew the way was all clear for him to forge ahead, ; “Well, if you want it told out, all right. We aro trying to get some clew to your missing dad, that’s all,” ‘“‘Thunder} Do you think you will learn any- thing bere?” “We don't think anything about that, we are here to pick up snything that may turn up, that’s all. What weare after is clows, bard and fast; see?” ; Harry’s grammar was faulty but his meaning Was plain enough. ** And your chief sent you here?” ** Sure, Mike,” ** Well, you can go back to him and tell bim for me that he is taking a mighty poor course for finding out anything about my missing father, I don’t see what he is thinking about; do you, Beau?” ‘No, hang me if I do, but it looks straighter than it did,” ** And you think they have told the truth?” Yes, [ think so, now.” ‘Well, youngsters, have you found out any- thing?” turning to Harry and Seth, ‘“* Crackers an’ cheese!” cried Harry. ** Haven't you yanked me up so quick that J couldn’t learn anything? Now if you had given me that job and allowed me to nose around for six months or a year, then I'd been better able to report,” ‘ Six months or a year?” “Yes; nota day less, If I had brain, you see, it would be different, but I baven’t. Here is Seth, now, he could have done it ina minute, I suppose he has got onto the facts, if you gave him half a show,” : sr smiled in a weakly way, and shook his ea . “Well, you may go back to your chief,” said Shyrock, ‘‘and tell him for me that he has done a foolish thing. I know nothing about my father, and he will never be able to solve the mystery if he fools away time in this fashion, meeypte ta nA rt rr pr re pert If he can’t do any better he might as well give the case up first as last.” : ‘“*And teil him for me,” added Robiston, “that if bis two cubs cross my path again he iia to lay them up for repairs. Don’t for- get t. CHAPTER XI. SEALED GUESSES, Happy Harry and Silent Seth took their de- parture in comething of a crestfallen manner. Tneir detective pride had suffered a fall, and they felt correspondingly dejected, though there was nothing in the manner of phlegmatic Seth to betray it. *¢ Christopher Columbia!” cried Happy Harry in anything but a happy tone, as soon as they . bad shaken the dust of the office from their fest, so to express it; ‘“‘ but that was a drop. What happened us, anyhow?” “There is nothing the matter,” Seth declared. ‘*Crackers an’ cheese! Nothin’ the matter? Why, we have been picked up fora pair of the most gusbing gillies you ever beard of, and the case proved against us. I tell you whatit is, Seth, Pm going to ’ply for a posish on the street-cleaning brigade. I think the caliber of my brain will just fit such a job as that.” Seth, with nothing to say, said nothing, Harry always had to draw him out by main i force, when no vital point was under considera- tion. ‘*Why don’t ye say somethin’? he now de- manded. “If you don’t talk, bless me if I 4 don’t take up a pavin’ stone and see what’s in | that sealed-up head of yonrs, You say there is nothing the matter, yet here we are going ' back to the office like a pair of kicked kioodles, } knocked out in the first round, T’m ’shamed to face the boss, and that’s the truth in a solid chunk, He'll take away our badges, sure,” “You needn't worry, you are safe,” . Hello! can talk, can’t you? What do you ‘mean, though?” 3 “Why, you would have been all right, if I hadn’t been in for it when you got there,” ‘Don’t know "bout that; seems to me I am always getting into it, whether I want to or not. But bow did you come to fall over your- self so bad?” ‘*Basy enough, Robiston suspected me, and made up his mind to find out whether his suspi- cion was well grounded or not, If he had been mistaken and pulled a sure-enough mustache like he yanked my false one, somebody would have yelled, you bet!” * And having got onto your graft, they were ready for me when I came along, I see, Then it was your fault, eh? I’ve a notion to take you out there in the middle of the street and scour your buttons for you, Seth,” “Tt's a question whether you could do it or not, Harry.” : ‘* We'll settle that question some time.” So they talked cn,*bringing out the points of the case as it now appeared to them, and in due time were at the office, They were about to enter, when Harry caught sight of a person whom he recognized, and to whom he called Seth’s attention. It was Jack, the junior clerk at the bank. He was passing up the street on the opposite side, and seemed to be in a burry. ‘* Where’s he going tof” gsc Harry. **One way to find out,” Seth suggested. * By following bim, eh?” *Hxactly.” - “ Well, which does it fall to?” “Ta like to report to the boss what I heard between Robiston and Shyrock.” “A wink is just as good as a nod toa blind rg gna Isavvy. Til try to hunt bis baze for im, Harry was off at once, and Seth entered the building and mounted the steps to the office, where he found their chief, who had come in just a little abead of bim, “ Back again, eh?” greeted Billy. “Pye got a point or two,” said Seth, wasting no words idly. “ That’s good; what are they?” ‘ Seth reported, ‘“* Ha! now we are coming at something,” cried Billy. “ Youand Harry are right in your sus- picions, Where is Harry?” “Just saw that fellow Jack, and followed him,” ‘Good again, I think that chap is in th thing deeper than will be wholesome for him,” ‘ Well, what is going to be done ‘“*Can’t do anything yet. Must get the proofs, you know.” — “And how are.we going to do that? Robise ! tn has his eyes wide open now,”
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10 **T see he has, Seth; but we must try to close them for him, I’ve another lay for you,” ‘* What is it?” ** Want you to go to Stiverson’s,” ‘The house?” “ Yes,” ** All right, just give me the plan,” ** This man Robiston and Mrs, Stiverson, who is a young woman, are said to be rather too friendly for good report. They may have a hand in this ae together, in some manner.” ‘*That’s so, It wouldn’t surprise me, after what I heard.” * Your report bas strengthened the suspicion - in my mind. I’m going to play a blind card.” “What's that?” **T want you to goto that house and ask for Mrs, Stiverson, and when you see her simply say that Robiston sent you. ou need not know anything but just that, you see,” ** 1 catch on, sir.” © Well, Ro, and while you are gone, I'll drop around to Headquarters and see what is really thought about the robbery there.” Silent Seth was all business, and without an- other word set out upon his new mission, and in a few minutes after that Broadway Billy lett the office and went to pay a visit to his patron. At Headquarters he was greeted cordially as ever. ‘* Well, what's the case this time?” was asked. ‘*T guess you know, sir,” was Billy’s response. ‘*You are on the Stiverson matter, I am aware,” ** That is it. sir?” y ** Tt is a peculiar one, Billy.” ** You are right itis, My belief is that Wil- ley is as innocent as you are of the theft.” ‘My own impression exactly. It is puzzling us to find the guilty person, nevertheless. Have you got anybody in sight?” ‘Yes, I have, and my object in coming here was to ask you to call off your men and let me have the field to myself. I have an object in making this request,” ‘That jgoes without saying. object?” “I have a double case on hand, and the two cases seem inclined to run together in one,” ** And this bank case is the one?” ’ “ce Yes,” ** Well, if I let go, Billy, are you sure enough of your ground to hold the case?” ‘* Were I not I would not ask what I do. I can lay my hands on the men who are at the bottom of it all, and a Jittle more work will give me the proofs.” “All right, Pll do it, alone,” ' “* Thank you, sir. Will you please get word to your man as soon as you can?” ‘Why the hurry?” ‘*T have reason to believe he may have a suspicion against a certain chap who will lead him right into my camp, and maybe spoil my other case,” “ All right, Pll see to it, Billy, but I wouldn’t doit for any private detective in New York, But, you are not exactly a private, since I con- sider you on my staff,” ‘*T am at your command all the time, sir.” ‘And I’m glad you are, But, what is the other case you speak about?” “ Have you heard about the missing Mr, Shy- rock?” ‘Yes, by the papers,” What do you think of that case, What is your You may go it ees he eae _— = on ‘*Pardon me, I did not stop to weigh my words; tongue got abead of reason that time,” The famous thief-catcher had penciled a note while Billy had been speaking, and while making his response he sealed it in an envelope, putting a distinguishing mark upon it. That envelope he now laid away in a drawer of his desk, Broadway Billy was using his wits at high pressure at the same time, trying to guess what the chief’s note could be. He carefully recalled the reniark by him that had led to the making of the memorandum, and weighed it well though quickly, and like a flash an idea came to him, He believed he had struck ‘* Yes, go ahead,” the noted detective chief was saying, in response to Billy’s remark. ‘* You are on the right track, and I’m sure you will make a success of the case. When it is done we will talk it over and see how close 1 have come to certain things in it,” ‘* By your leaye, sir,” said Billy, ‘‘T’ll make a note the same as you have done, leaving it here with you, and we'll open them together after the matter has been cleared upand settled. Like your I will make no mention of what mine is, but ’m willing to let it stand on its merits, hit or miss. If I miss the mark, so be it,” The chief smiled, and after some further talk Billy took leave. CHAPTER XII. HARRY IN HONEY. In the mean time Happy Harry had hustled _along on the track of Jack, the youth from the bank, and had shadowed him successfully to his destination. And that destination was a third-rate hotel, oe which did not enjoy a very savory reputa- ion. Harry stepped out of sight for a moment and effected a change of disguise. That done, he en- tered boldly. It has been explained more than once that both Harry and Seth carried with them a num- ber of articles calculated to change their ap- pearance at shortest notice, and practice had made them adepts in the art. The one Harry had on now was a very grace- ful little mustache to match bis bair, and a pair of student spectacles, As tb ashe entered he caught sight of his sus . ‘ he youth was looking idly around the room, as if in search of some one, and Harry made as if not to notice him at all, Evidently not finding the person for whom he was in search, the fellow sat down to wait, and Harry took a seat a little distance from him and opened a newspaper. Harry had not long to wait for developments, The door presently opened and Beaumont Robiston and Horace Shyrock entered, Looking around the room with keenest scru- tiny for a few moments, they advanced to where the young bank clerk sat. Happy Harry did not move and so did not draw attention to himself, and he was able to observe them from behind his student spectacles ‘without fear of detection. lt would have been amazing to the two rascals could they have known who the party with the newspaper really was, for they had no reason to suppose eitoer Harry or Seth could be there, They would probably know more of Broad- “JT am looking for him, I begin to see light | way Billy and his beagles before they got done ahead,” ‘*Something of a peculiar case, as near as I could judge from the meager reports of it,” “A decidedly peculiar case, sir. My clue leads me to Mr, Gaffner Stiverson, fron: whom I hope to get information that will enable me to ’ clear it up.” ** Explain,” _ “Tbe two men were close friends, at any rate in their business relations, and evidently bad no secrets from each other, I have found that for some years past Mr, Stiverson has been absent- ing himself from home about the same as Mr, Shyrock bas been doing.” And you suspect—” “That they are working together in some se- cret business, something perhaps not altogether straight.” with them. : tig boy, you are here?” Robiston greeted ack. ‘* Yas, sir,” the response, ‘And I suppose your time is short,” put in Shyrock. ‘Yes; I’m only out for forty minutes, and fifteen of that’s gone a’ready.” ‘*We won’s keep you long,” said Robiston, ‘IT suppose you know you are on mighty dan- gerous ground, don’t you?” The youth paled, Happy Harry could hear all. ** Yes, I s’pose I am,” was the response, _ You are right you are, If you get detected you will go up for twenty years—not a day less,’ It will pay you to watch out sharp,” | ‘*'Y-yes, sir, That’s what I’m trying to do, “Ob! Well, go ahead, Billy, and sift the mat- | sir.” ter to the bottom, and let me know how it comes ** And you want to be careful how you talk,” out, Then lll show you this little memorandum | warned Shyrock, and as he spoke he glanced at which I will seal bere and now in your pres- Ghanlege Harry and lowered his voice, ence,” ‘* What is it, sir?” ‘*One little word might get you in over your head, you knew.” x be Were I ready to tell you, what need to seal} “I know it, and.I’m sorry I'm in it.” ; * Too late, now; but why are you sorry” ‘ he ae : “Se ae Eee Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. | River tostay. Do you see? ‘* Because I’m afraid of Broadway Billy. ‘* Afraid of Broadway Billy? Why are y afraid of him? He can’t prove anything against” ou. All you have to do is to keep a stiff upper ip and you will come out allright. If youonce | get frightened you are a goner, sure,” 13 “Pll tell you why I am afraid of him. When he looked at me I thought I could feel his eyes burning holes right through me. I half believe he could read what I was thinking about, and that’s no lie, I wish I wasn’t in it, and I wouldn’t go in it again for double the ray money, either.” he ** Ha, ha, ha! Why it was allin your imagi- p nation, Jack. It is because you know you are wh guilty that you felt that. You must take care | not to show it, or he will yank you up in a jiffy. | Just make up your mind that you are going to | beat him bad, and he’ll never be able to get any- [ io thing out of you. If you don’t, your money won’t do you any good, that’s sure.” ‘“* Pll try it, of course, for I don’t want to get caught. But, where is the money? I haven’t seen it yet.” Happy Harry was so excited that he found it fF hard to contain himself. es He wanted to spring right out to the middle oy of the floor and there give a whoop and execute | a war-(dance, ‘*Oh! the money? We didn’tforget that, Jack, 2 and here it is, Mind, you must take care not to 2 | spend it till this thing has all blown over, orthat 7 may bring suspicion down upon youina hurry.” — £ ‘“* Pll take care of that.” -A roll of money was given to the youth, , @ which was quickly stowed away out of sight in i ‘ the inside pocket of his vest. . ‘q ‘* Now, tell us what you know,” ordered Shy-° — Pe rock, - a ‘“Well, Broadway Billy has tumbled to it i that it’s a fake, for one thing.” f ‘© What is a fake?” ‘* The Canada racket.” ‘* Ha! you have heard something, then?” ‘* Hoe has been at the bank again and had a ; & talk with Jones.” 7 on ‘* And what did he say?” 4 ‘¢ He thinks Willey is innocent,” “The deuce!” Shyrock and Robiston exchanged glances fraught with meaning, ‘Tell us what Broadway Billy said,” directea — Robiston, : ‘* Well, I couldn’t tell everything, for I don’t remember it all, He asked a good many ques- tions, and Jones told him about the money that fell cut of Willey’s pocket, and the Canuda ticket.” ‘* What did he say to that?” ( ** He whistled.” ( Moe Va, Bey ** Ha! it hit him heavy, did it?” Me Boat ‘That was what I thought, too, at first, but Ichavged my mind.” ‘i “cc Wh 7 ‘“Why, he turned right tomeand said—‘ I guess that package of money wasn’t in his pocket very securely, Jack.’ And I tell your felt creepy all over, I believe he has got a notion I put 1t there,” Again did the two partners in villainy ex- change meaning looks, “ ‘* And what did you say?” asked Shyrock, ‘*T said I guessed not.” : ‘*Then what did he say ?” (ee “Why, be told me I needn’t get frightened - just because be looked at me.” — ‘Proof that be noticed you were scared. Jack, you will have to brace up better than that, or you will get into a hole,” “Pil try my best.” , ‘4 “ And just let me put a bug in your ear,” said Robiston, menacingly. ‘‘If you do get into trouble, and you tell on anybody else, your life won’t Le worth a nickel. Do you savvy?” ‘6 Yves, sir.” ; hae “* Well, keep it fresh in your mind, that’s all.” — ‘* You see how it is,” added Sbyrock, ‘Your © word wouldn’t go far against that of other folks, while their word would send you up Salt — So, be mighty care- ful how you carry yourself,” ; ‘-Y—y—yes, sir, I see,” ; ‘“That’sali, then, But, what more did Broad way Billy say?” vin, ‘* Well, he said he thoughtit was a fake, a few hundred dollars and a ticket in Willey’s pocket, when twelve thousand dollars had beeu stolen, Said it looked like a put-up job,” a Exchange of glances again, i ‘*T thought I’d tell you that, you see,” youth added, ‘‘ Thought you’d ought to know how the wind was blowing there, And now I must git, for I'll only have just time enough to get back on time,” . is
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WX ~— * All right, get out with you. Becareful, and P - keep your eyes and ears open, too,” F ped ' “eT will,” ai ** And, if you learn anything you think we ought to know, don’t fail to get it to us as soon as you can,” “Tl take care to do that, you bet.” A word or two more and the lad went off. The studious student behind the newspaper had not moved or stirred, but seemed to be ob- livious to everything. ** Well, what do you think now?” As he put the question Robiston glanced at Harry, and drew nearer to Shyrgck, dropping his voice yet lower than before, “T think there is cause for alarm, now, for I am afraid of that young fellow,” was the dismal eresponse, just Joud enough for Harry to over- hear and no more, ‘There is not enough mar- ut row in his bones,” ee ‘* Well, what can we do for safety?” } ** Not a thing,” ‘* We'll have to trust to circumstances, eh?” *“* Don’t see what else we can do, A few hours Hey, will tell the tale, you see, If Jack can hold his i) mond, and Willey is’ convicted, then we are safe. t= = ~ ss — Oaks i there?” Pi ‘ee ‘¢T¢ means both, if either,” 1 They were thoughtful for some moments, ie hen do we divide?” Horace presently ask- e —>~= ca Auy time you please, unless we find suspi- cion has dropped our way, when we shall have to be very careful about our actions,” _ “ That is so; but I want my share of the prof- its the same as [ have had my sbare of the work and the danger, [ wasn’t in itso much for gain, but may as well have my share,” ‘* Have you seen Florence since?” ** No, but I’m going to see her just as soon as en Willey gets in so he will stay. May go before; BP hc can’t say sure,” | a “You ought to strike while the iron is hot, — and make it as bad saat Willey as you can, . and you may win. hatever you say against ea ‘him Pll back up for you, you know.” Cae: ‘** That’s the bargain, I believe, Well, we had : better sparate, I think. ‘You had better come to Ki the store to-morrow and anteup. I can make YB Rae good use of about that sum just now. By the iv) ae way, where is it? Where you said? Well, she will take good care of it, I’ve no doubt.” ae =~ eles 1 acme pO Dee CHAPTER XIII. SILENT SETH STIRRED UP, | Hapry Harry was filled with delight. If he hadenvied Seth the good stroke of work he had done at the store, now he felt that he had done a better. And, best of all, he hadn't been detected! 1t was self-evident that no thought of suspicion had entered the minds of these men against bim, and he hoped to get off without it, He was so full of exultation that he could hardly contain himself, too. Uniess he got a chance to give vent to his feel- ings soon, he felt that he would explode then and there. The suspense did not last much longer, for the two men now shook hands and parted, oing out one after the other and each going i an opposite direction on leaving the place, It was not Harry’s intention to follow either of them. To do so, he felt, would be to gain nothing, and he had something more important on hand. ‘The information he had gleaned was such that his chief ought to be in possession of it as early as possible, anl Harry meant to get tothe office with as little delay as he could, ; When toe two men had been gone about a couple + of minutes, Harry sprung up, tearing his news- _ paper in two with a sharp jerk, and after exe- cuting a turn in the middle of the floor, to the amazement of all observers, darted from the house and away up the street, _ * Christopher Columbia!” he cried, as soon as out on the street, “ but that was a rare streak of clear luck, that was! I feel as though I’d _ like to yell like a wild Injunabout it. I must do somethin’, too, or Pil never be able to stand it till I get to the office, Must work off some of vite had fost Fe somehow, sure, Ha!” , oh) just reached the first corner, and there ‘was an Italian busily grinding away at a peanut ae ter. vs Harry was smiling broadly, almost laughing, ‘ eres Ree. | Agr cried, let-a me go! asure-a ting. What-a for you mean? go his hold and leaping lightly away. “ bad never felt quite so happy in his life be- | > yirk of ' 4 1 ie - Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. fore, he beiieved, And he must have excitement of some sort at once or die of high pressure. ‘“ Here, Dago, catch on!” he cried, and laying hold upon the Italian, who was no larger than himself, be pulled him away from his roaster and forced him into a waltz around on the cor- ner of the pavement, to the amusement of the crowd that collected in a moment. t What-a for you do-a dis?” the Dago “'You-a let-a me go! Hil I tell-a you Dam! you are a crazy Sai rest uet-a “ Hil me go!” ** All right, there you go!” Harry cried, letting ** Can’t you take a little fun? Christopher Columbia was a Dago, you know, and I feel so glad he dis- covered ’Merica that I feel like hugging the whole lot of you. I tell you what, we are the people!” With that, and a hearty laugh, Harry ran away and headed for the office, making a record against time, When he arrived, though,.neither Billy nor Seth was there, so he had to content himself as best he could while he waited, Meanwhile Silent Seth had been prompt in arrying out his latest commission, Going straight to the Stiverson mansion, from the office, he rung the bell, asked to see Mrs, Stiverson, and was shown into the par- lor. In a little while the lady appeared. ‘You want to see me?” she said, ‘“Yes, if you are-Mrs, Stiverson,” Seth an- swered, ‘¢ Well, I am she,” “Mr, Robiston sent me, ma’m,” ‘* What did he send you for?” “1 do not know, ma’m,” “That is very strange, I mustsay. How am I to know what he wants?” ‘“*T don’t know, 1 asked what I should say to you, and he said—nothing at all; you would know.” ‘¢ But, J don’t know.” “Then I'll have to go back and say 80,” Aa ge he expect you to bring anything to im ‘‘T rather think he does, but I’m. all in the dark.” ** Well, itis a strange matter, that is certain. seit Bn he not tell you something deiinite?” ** You will have to ask him?” “Where did you see him?” ‘* He was at Mr, Horace Shyrock’s store.” ‘* Ah! then I think I understand it better. He evilently did not care to trust you with se- crets.” ‘*That’s about the size of it, I guess, to speak plainly.” ‘* And you think he expects you to bring him something?” ‘*It must be that, since he didn’t send me to get any information.” ‘Yes, I guess so, too, particularly as he sent you from Horace Shyrock’s store direct, But, I do not understand it, even so,” ‘¢ And of course I don’t, ma’m,” Silent Seth was playing the part: f innocence in the matter. He was merely pressing the but- ton, as the pat saying has it, leaving it for the woman to do the rest. He was eager within, but outwardly as undisturbed as ever, What would be the outcome? “That is quite plain,” the woman rejoined, “Well, wait a few moments and I will prepare a package for you.” ** All right, ma’m.” Seth, had he been of Happy Harry’s disposi- tion, would have found it hard to contain him- self, but he was differently constituted, Tue woman left the room, and Seth waited quietly and patiently. ; She presently returned, ; “ ‘* Here,” she said, extending a package to him, is probably what Mr. Robiston wants, Take care not to lose it, for it contains some papers of value to him, though they would be of no use to any one else,” ‘ Pll not lose it, ma’m; don’t be uneasy.” _, There was grim truth in that statement, even if Seth had been using some pretty strong fic- tion before, He certainly had ‘no intention of losing the package, for once he got clear of the house with it, it would find its way direct to the office of the young detective chief, , _ “ And tell Mr, Robiston if that is not right, to send me word what he does desire, or to come himself,” ““ Yes, ma’m,” j Seth had risen and was moving to the door. He was more than eager to get away, for he ‘ Le Sal <a & AP TA: feared something might turn up at any moment: to balk him. ‘“‘T am taking a risk in trusting you,” the woman remarked, half to herself, ‘ but 1 can- not see but thatit must be all right—” % “Oh! it’s all mght, if this is what he wants,”” Seth assured. ‘And I'll make all the haste I can, for he appeared to be in a hurry to get it— He was moving out as he spoke, was now at the hall door, and nothing short of force would detain him now, ‘* Well, take care,” warned the woman, “and say to Mr, Robiston that I shall be anxious to hear from him as soon as he can make it con- venient—” ** Yes, ma’m, yes, ma’m,” Seth hurriedly as~ sented; and having opened the door, he was out. and away before she could say more. He walked with moderate haste till he had turned the first corner, when he broke intoa run and made for the office with all the speed he» thought safe to assume in the street, as When he reached the office he broke in like a moderate whirlwind, “« Christopher Columbia!” cried Harry, spring- ing to his feet, ‘‘the world is coming to an end, sure as Goshen!” “Why?” asked Seth, ‘Cause you have waked up out of that ice sleep of yours,” “Lucky it is not you, Harry, for the office couldn’t hold you if it were, I wish you would stand on your head for me once, just to relieve my feelings.” ‘Crackers an’ cheese! What has happened, anyhow, Seth? The office had a hard enough job to hold me as it was, and now it will bulge out and kerflummux for sure. Tell me, quick.” “T have to, Harry, for I never felt so much like talking in my life.” “Thought nothin’ could move you.” “So did I, but I’m moved this time, Where is the boss?” ‘© 1 don’t know, but I’m jest dyin’ to see him. Hope he'll soon come,” “SodolI, Idon’t know whether I can wait till he comes cr not, for I’m ina fever to know what’s in this package,” ‘¢ Where did ye get it?” bs Mrs, Stiverson gave it to me to take to Rob~ iston.’ “* Whoop-ee!” yelled Harry, and in an instant he was standing heels up and executing a dance: upon bis hans, “ What’s the matter?’ demanded Seth, ‘Oh! Christopher Columbia! Crackers an’ cheese! I’m going right out of my head with excess of joy, [ know I am,” ‘*] half believe youare, Whathas struck you now, so hard?” With a light leap Harry was right side up again. i Vl tell you,” he cried, ‘‘ I bet I know what’s in that package.” “What is it?” ‘The boodle that was stole from the bank!” “Do you know, Harry, that same idea has been buzzing in my head, Wonderif it isthat?” “ Sure itis! Il bet you ten cents to a spank- ing itis! Ihave got onto their haze in grand style, now, and now I’m only dyin’ to see the. boss to report.” , “Wonder if ke’d care if we opened it?” “ Better to open it than to die of curiosity, don’t you think so?” ’ “Yes, I do, for I think Broadway Billy would forgive us sooner for curiosity than for suicide,” ‘Open it, then, for goodness’ sake, just as soon as you can, and let’s have the agony over with, We thought there wouldn’t be any ’citement in this case, but if I had any more I'd go off, sure,” Seth said nothing, but sawed wood—figura- — tively speaking. He broke the string, unfolded the papers with eager haste, and soon the con- tents of the packet were laid bare. several packages of bank-notes! They had made the best haul of their livest CHAFTER XIV. SCOOPING MASTER JACK. _ ON® glance at the rich contents of the packet, and Happy Harry went tearing around the room like a crazy fellow. rues th “Hold me, Seth! hold me! hold me!” he called out, ‘If you don’t I'll be a howling idiot before the boss comes, sure as x08 live! I’m likely to. grab that boodle and strike a bee-line for Candy —I mean Canada,” And at the same time Silent Seth, showing more of excitement than he had ever manifeste:! before over any event, was standing with his thumbs and fingers pressed together in front of — There were
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Ss ahs aes on Sno ee ae ee Se 1 ———————eEe ao rs x > as ee eA: ae Pie c . BTSs AEG ee f ; Se re ~ fim ina very Quakerish manner, and was whistling softly the most solemn dirge he knew. In the midst of it all, into the office came Broadway Billy. With one of his keen glances around he took in the situation immediately, and saw the prize: his beagles had brought him. “* Sweet pertaters!” he ejaculated, with all his old-time vim, ‘‘but you have done yourself proud this time, Silent,Seth! This is more than I dared hope for when I sent you on that er- rand,” ** Me too!” exclaimed Happy Harry, stopping his antics and striking an attitude before his chief, ‘* Me, too, boss!” “You want a share of the praise, do you?” ** You bet I do.” ‘* Well, what am I to praise you for? Here is Seth’s work, in plain sight. I take it that you have some valuable information for me, Have T hit it?” * You can just bet both boots and one sock that you have.” ** Well, what is it?” ** It’s all right that Seth has got the boodle, and I’m mighty proud of-him for it, and mighty glad; but, that ain’t the whole of it yet. I have got the robbers dead to rights,” ‘You have?” ** You bet!” ** Who are they?” ** Make a guess on’t,” ‘‘ Well, it won’t be hard to guess, with the lew Inow hold, You see, I know wheres Seth got the plunder,” “ That’s so. Well, it’s them; Jack, Robiston, and Horace Shyrock. They are the pretty rogues that did the business for old Stive,’ ** How did you get onto them?” ** Jack went to meet them, and I heard all they said.” ** And they didn’t suspect you?” “ Nary.” “Should have thought they would, after i egg tangled up with them so oftén to- da, ‘** No, I got the bulge on ’em in fine style this time, and took in all they had to say. They paid Jacksey for his share in the business,” **T felt sure that lad was in it.” ** And he is, clear up to his chin, And they are all shaky in their boots because you are after’em.” ‘*They’ll shake more, before we get done ‘with them, I am thinking. But, have you some proof against Master Jack, so that I can nab bim at once?” * ‘You bet!” ** What is it?” “* Why, he’s got the money they gave bim right here in bis vest pocket, inside, and there you will find it, if you take him before be leaves the bank. He only had enough timeto get there when he left the rascals,” “Then he is my tender tid-bit, you bet! Dll have him inside of half an hour, and Pll scare a confession out of him before he will know what he is about.” ** Bully!” cried Harry. ‘‘Can’t you take us along with you to see the fun?” ‘No; I bave other work for you and Seth,” * What's that?” _ “Why, the way it stands now, as soon as Robiston and Mrs, Stiverson meet, the cat will _be out of the bag, and they may attempt to light out. They must be watched, you see,” ** And you want Seth and me to do that?” 4 Yes.” ** We are ready for it,” spoke up Seth. ‘We have done one good stroke apiece, and maybe we can cap it-with another.” ** Yes, you bave each done good work,” Billy complimented, ‘t and you may be able to get in’ another lick at the rascals before you are done with them, Ill give you the chance, anyhow.” * We'll haze ’em, you bet!” ejaculated Harry. *“* We have got our wur-paint on, now, with our hair done up in battle array, and if we don’t take the dust out of their gay feathers, you can take us out and take the dust out of us, that’s all, Seth is on his wuscle now, for sure.” ‘* No more than Harry,” Seth averred. “* You are both on your muscle, I guess,” said Billy, witha laugh. ‘‘ And you have good rea- son to feel as proud as peacocks,” ~ ‘** Well, sir, give us our work to do,” requested Seth, modestly. “Al right, Shadower; you go back to the Stiverson mansion and keep guard over the house, and if Robiston comes there, don’t lose track of him again after thator we may not find sim when we want him,” * All right, sir.” “And you, Harry, do the same for Horace G Shyrock, And, both of you must use your best | ‘‘ Never knew him to have one before,” was disguises now, for if you get into their hans, ' the answer from that source, after they iearn what is up, they may do away with you,” ‘* We'll take the chances of that.” ** All right; that all comes in in a detective’s career, Now, Ill leave you to prepare your- selves, and [jl attend to Master Jack.” ** How Id like to see the fua!” cried Harry. J Never mind; Ill tell you about it after it is er, So, Billy hastened away, leaving Harry and Seth to prepare for their further duties, While talking, Billy had wrapped up the bank- notes again, and carried them with him when he set out for the bank. His first thought had been to go to the bank direct, but he changed his mind and went to Headquarters instead, to show his prize to his patron there, The moment he entered he was cheerfully greeted. ‘‘ Well, I see success written upon your face, Billy,” the superintendent observed. ‘' And you’llsee it here in this package, too, sir,” Bijly declured, as he Jaid the package on ths table. ‘* You have recovered the boodle, eh?” “Yes, sir.” Biily opened the package and displayed its contents, ‘*Good stroke of work!” he was compliment- ed. ‘*How and where did you get it?” ‘My boy Seth did it, sir,” Billy proudly ad- mitted. ‘* But, he acted under your directions, of course?” ‘Well, yes; I have to admit that.” Billy thereupon told about the bluff move- ment be bad made, and the success it had brought im. ‘* Excellent!” was the word of praise, ‘* Ex- cellent! I must tell Williams what your Silent Shadower has done, Those boys are bound to win bis confidence the same as you won mine, Billy.” ‘* T hope they may, sir.” There was a lively and friendly chat for some minutes, and when Billy took leave he was ac- companied by aman from Headquarters to act as bis witness to whatever confession the boy at the bank might make, When they’ reached the bank and entered, Billy addressed Jones, while his companion re- mained in the background, ‘“ Well, sir, we have got at the bottom of the theft,” Billy remarked. He had one eye on the boy Jack, and saw him give a great start, his face turning pale, and be bent low over his books, ‘What! so soon?’ the acting kead clerk ex- claimed. ** Yos, sir.” * And it isn’t Willey?” ‘Oh, no! itisn’t Willey at all,” At that moment who should come in but Wil- ley himself! He looked pale and worn, caused by his anxiety, but was otherwise calm, ‘‘Hal I am glad to sec you!” greeted Billy. ‘*Thank you, sir,” was the response, taking the offered hand. ‘‘Can you still believe me in- nocent?” ‘ ** Not only so, sir, but Ican prove you inno- cent,” was Billy’s response, You can prove it?” “Thank God. Who was the thief?” ‘* There is one of them, right there, sir!” and Billy pointed at Jack, That young rascal, who bad been watching out of the’corner of his eye, now leaped off his stool with a cry and a face like death, **It ain’t soy’ he cried, ‘It ain't so! I defy you to prove anything of the sort. You are trying to scare me and get it fastened upon me, but you can’t do that. Lamupto you. Itain’t so at all!” ** Just let me see what that is you have got in your inside vest pocket, if you please,” Billy requested. At that the lad bad the appearance of being about to faint. He staggered, and had to grasp the edge of the desk for support, while a perspiration ap- peared upon his forehead. “ {—I—L ain’t got nothin’ there,” he denied. “* Very well, then, what are you so frightened about?” ; “I-I-I ain’t frightened; I’m sick, that’s all, sir. ** Taken suddenly, eh?” *s Yes, sir,” . 1r. ‘Is he subject to such spells, Mr, Willey?” ° 16 Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. Pt tintin a ts ih wl an ll el ll a hE sien ete Ahn ep a a patito wage ly a i Sg he wr te ee tee ‘ i 7 ' ¢ Y , : : : ‘ eS . 3 ie or > : * ‘Then I'll have to think he’s lying,” Billy de- clared. ‘*Come out here, young fellow, till I search you.” Down upon his knees dropped Master Jack, up went his hands, and he begged like a good fellow, declaring his innocence by everything he could think of, but that had no effect upon the detective. Billy went in behind the inclosure, snapped a pair of handcuffs upon the lad’s wrists, and then searched bis pocket, bringing forth the bills from the pocket where Happy Harry had re- ported them to be. The proof against him was hands of the law. CHAPTER XV. COMING TO A CLOSING, ‘‘ Ler me go! Oh! please let me go!” wailed the dishonest youth, dropping upon his knees and uplifting his manacled hands pleadingly. ‘*T will tel you all about it if you will only let me go. I didn’t do it alone; I was put up to it, and [ll tell you all about it if you will only let me go,” . ‘We don’t want you to tell us anything,” said Billy, severely. ‘* We know all aboutit already. We know where you were lessthan an bour ago, and who paid this money to you for your rascally services, We have got a sure case against you all, and you are going up for it.” ‘‘No, no, no! Don’t send me to prison, Mr, Weston! Ob, please don’t ‘send me to prison!” wailed the miserable Jack. ‘It was Mr. Robis- ton and Mr. Shyrock that did the stealing; I only iet them into the bank, That was alll did!” ‘““Yos, very nice that was,” sneered Billy. ‘¢ Perhaps you will say you did not open the safe for them,” ‘‘No, no I didn’t! I swear I didn’t do that! Robiston did it himself!” “Just what I thought. NowI see through the whole game, You men are paying attention to all that is said?” turning to the witnesses resent, The detective and Willey and the clerk Jones all answered in the affirmative to the question. The two last wero very surprised men, *“*How could Robiston learn the combina- tion?” Willey questioned, ‘t Easily enough, if a certain woman could get it from her husband,” Billy gave the hint. ‘*Hal that is so. Why did I not think of that?” ‘‘ Maybe you were blind to it all.” ‘‘No, [have not been blind to it, but it has gone further than I ever had a thought it would 0.” ‘‘ That is very likely. But, you have not said how itis you are outof the jug, Mr. Willey. What good influence has been at work?” ‘* Bail was furnished by Miss Siyrock, sir.” ‘* Ha! then Miss Stiverson was too late?” ‘Yes, for while she was with me, declaring her belief in my innocence, the other was at act it was all done.” ; ‘‘Then you owe much to Miss Shyrock.” “Yes, as I am sorry to say, for I bad rather it had been Miss Stiverson. But, this is a private matter, You say you have got at the bottom of this thing, 1 hope you will be able to recover the money. ‘* Here it is, right here,” and Billy tossed the package to him, , ‘Thanks to Heaven!” the chief clerk said de- voutly. ba aahuee if itis all there, with this [have taken from Jack’s pocket and thesum he put into your overcoat, together, perbaps, with the price of the Canada ticket.” : ** i¢ was Jack who put that in my pocket?” ** No other.” **Curse you!” and Willey turned upon the youth bitterly. ‘‘ After all the kindness I have ever shown you.” |. At that the young criminal broke down and cried bitterly. : The chief clerk counted the money teal by packages, and reported that it was all there, as nearly as be could tell. And, needless to say, he was a happy man, to think that bis honor had been cleared and the loss restored in so short a time, It was almost too eo to be true, and tears were in his eyes. said, giving bis hand to Billy. ‘“ You have saved my honor.” . oa **Don’t mention it,” Billy waived, ‘ Let us hear what this promising young rascal has to J all that could be desired, and he was fast in the work in my behalf, and when Florence went to — shall never forget you, Billy Weston!” be_
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. say for himself. Tell us all about it, Master Jack, and let’s see just what your part in it was, “Tf I only hadn't done it, if I only hadn’tdone it,” the youth wailed. ‘Ves, if you only hadn't,” said Billy; ‘* but tHe trouble is, you see, you did, and you will have to take the consequences,” * But I was _ up to it; they held out tbe bait to me, and [ took it,” ** You didn’t have to take it, and you wouldn’t if you had been honest, No bovest boy or man ets into trouble of this kind, or if he does he is und to get ont again the same as Mr, Willey here has done, But tell your story.” ‘* Well, it was Robiston that was at the head of itall, He came to me and said he would give me five hundred dollars if I would come here and open the bank door and let him and Shyrock in, and then he would give me a _ hundred more if { would put the money in Mr, Willey’s pocket, and I said i wouki? ** And that’s all you did in the matter?” “« Yes, that’s all; I swear that’s all.” ‘* And that’s quite enough, You will go with this gentleman to the lock-up, and we'll see to you later on.” The other detective stepped forward at that, and took charge of the prisoner, and in spite of all his pleading and begging he was taken out an away to the nearest station. It now remained only to secure Robiston and Shyrock. , efore doing that, however, Billy had some- thing else in mind to carry out, and that of con- siderable importance, The chief clerk having returned the money to the safe and reassumed his position in the bank, Billy turned to him for a little talk, He wanted some information from him, ** How long bas Mr, Stiverson been sick?’ he ked, “It is about two weeks now, sir,” the answer. “Can you give me the time to a day?” Willey could, and did so. Note was made of it. **T understand,” said cage b then, ‘‘ that Mr. Stiverson had been in the habit of absenting himself from home for two and three days at a time quite often.” * ‘Yes, that’s true.” “Where did he g _” “To Philadelphia.” ? ‘ ** Has he a place of ‘business there?” ’ “He has a ypart interest in a concern in that city: I believe, “ ame business as this?” “* Yes, sir.” “Can you give mo some exact dates, recent, when he has been absent from here?” ** Yes, I think I can, sir.” A small book was consulted, and some dates were given, “You can mst be them,” Willey said, ** But, what has all this got to do with the case, now that it is ended?” “Nothing, with this case, but it may have something to do with another, By the way, was Mr. Shyrock, Hickman Shyrock, I mean, the habit of coming here often?” “No, not often; he came occasionally. He has an account here, but his head roan usually came to deposit,” “Did Mr. Sh k have any talk with Mr, Stiverson when he came here?” ‘“‘No. The fact is, come to think of it, Mr, Stiverson was never in when he called.” **That’s enough, You may hear of something that will surprise you before this game ends, Well, for the present I'll take myself off, Ycur case has been straightened out, anyhow.” “Yes, and sooner than 1 dared hope for, thanks to you.” ‘“* And my team,” added Billy, earnestly. He seldom forgot to give credit to Harry and Seth, and never when credit was particularly due them,’ Twenty minutes later found Billy at the door of the Stiverson mansion. “I want to see Mrs, Stiverson,” he announced, “She cannot be seen, sir,” he was told, He had looked around to see something of Silent Seth, on approaching the bouse but the Silent Shadower was not there, This had led him to suspect that Robiston bad been there, and that the news was out, now, that their scheme was known, and the servant’s auswer did not surprise him, | “J cannot take that for an answer,” he said bluntly. ‘I must see the lady, and you w please take me to her at once,” At that the girl paled, and knew not what bach can’t do it, sir,” she faltered. ‘I’, > me Sn etre te Spe oe 8g Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. lose my place if I let you In, when my order is to admit no one.” “Can't help anything about that, young woman, I’m in in spite of you, you see, Now, conduct me to the room where your mistress is, or I'll see if these things will fit on your wrists,” He had pushed his way in while ear and he now dangled a pair of handcuffs before the eyes of the frightened maid. ‘*Mercy!” the girl cried, ‘*What does it mean?” ** You will find out, if you do not obey orders pretty sharp,” Billy assured. ** Well, come this way, sir, and come quick, or I shall faint with fright. Tam almost scared to death.” A thought came to Billy. The girl did not look as badly terrified as she declared she was, and he suspected a trick, ‘* Just wait a moment first,” hesaid, and turn- ing, he locked the door and put the key in his pocket, ‘* There,” he added, ‘‘ now J’m ready.” The girl paled, now, and led the way without apvother word. ‘* This way,” she said, turning intoa room at the end of the ball,“ Right in this way, sir.” She seemed anxious about it, and in baste, and Billy went slow. He glanced down tha stairs that led to the basement, and as he did so he saw a woman walking toward the front of the house, Without a word he sprung back to the door, and looked out, He was just in time. Mrs. Stiverson cane hurriedly up from the basement entrance and made for the street gate. ‘** Hold on, if you please,” said Billy, in a stern voice. ‘*I want a word with you, madam,” With a cry the woman stopped short, but onl for an instant, when she turned and ran with all tie speed she could command, down the street. Billy was after ber like a flash, and soon laid a detaining hand upon her shoulder and brought her toa stop. She faced him with the fury of a tigress at bay, but a pair of adjustable handcuffs quickly encircled her delicate wrists, “Tf you want to avoid a scene, madam,” Billy then observed quietly, ‘‘ come back to the house with me peacefully and at once,” ; She went, muttering imprecations as she did 80, CHAPTER XVI. SURPRISING DISCLOSURE, WHEN they entered Billy looked around for the servant who had admitted him at first, but she was not to be found, He never saw her again, It was quite pro- bable that her own record was not altogether clear, and that she bad thought it just as well to take time by the forelock, ‘Now, madam,” said Billy, when they were within, ‘‘I would like for you to let me have the full history of this case from beginning to end, so far as you are concerned in it, ou will lose nothing by making a full confession.” ‘*] confess nothing,” was the defiant retort, “Ifyou know anything against me, prove it, If you cannot do that, then you shall be put through for this outrageous conduct on your part, You will find that it does not pay to arrest a respectable woman as you hava arrest- ed me,” ‘¢ Don t toss your head so high,” Billy caution- ed. ‘I would never have taken the step I have without being sure of my ground, I know you were concerned with Beaumont Robiston in the robbery of your husband’s bank. My messenger was here only a little time ago and received the stolen money from your hands, There, now, it will do you no good to deny it,” “T was not going to ota, it, Mr. Weston,” “Then you do not deny it?” “I do not, sir,” ‘“Then you can see that you are into the a further than is good for you, can you no “* Let me ask you how you are going to prove anything against me? You will offer the state- ment, but it will be quite another thing for nl prove it, and if you fail in that, look ou ° ae 1 we change the subject for the mo- ment, How is your husband this morning, madam?” “ Heis coe the same, I guess, What matters t to you will you kindly tell me what his ailment Billy eyed the woman keenly as he put the question, and she turned pale coder his steady gaze, ** What do you mean?” she demanded. ** Just what lask, What is the matter with is a cep en ene I EE i hl IR in Ae dye 18 your husband? Nothing in that to cause you alarm, is there?” ‘* Assuredly not, sir. For a diagnosis of his case I would refer you to his physician, who will no doubt gratify your curiosity fully. You need. expect nothing from me.” ‘“*He might tell me if he knows,” Billy in- sinuated, The woman paled even more, and her fingers clas together nervously. ‘*T know not what you mean,” she said, with dignity. ‘* Speak out plainly or do not speak at, all, eine us go up and see your husband,” said. Vou are at liberty to do so, sir; I am not going with you,” ‘* Very well, then you may accompany me to the station first, and I will come back again,” ‘*What! you would not heap that indignity upon me, would you?” ** What indignity?” “Taking me to the station,” ; “Tiat is what | generally do with ‘a pris- oner,” ‘“Mr, Weston, see here.” “Well?” ‘*My name toa check is good for five thou- sand dollurs,” ‘*T bave no reason to doubt your statement, Mrs, Stiverson.” ‘‘Let me go free, at once, and I'll leave a check in your bands for that sum,’ ‘Thank you, ma’m, but I’m not a bird of that. feather, ou cannot buy ;yourself out of my hands.” The woman’s whole attitude changed at once.. She had evidently thought this argument one: that could not fail, but she did not know the man with whom she had to deal. Lifting her fettered hands, she began to im- ~ plore Billy to let her go, even going so far as to double the offer she had already made, but that was of no use whatever, Billy would not take a bribe under any cir- cumstances, but this time, to carry another point, be did not refuse outright, int, be did f ight, “While I think about that,” be said, “let us g° up and see your husband. I desire to make is acquaintance,” ‘Promise that you will not tell shat you know, that I was about to elope with Robiston, and I will do as you say.” ‘Very well, I promise that.” ** Then come on,” Billy had not suspected quite so far as that, but nothing in his manner betrayed his igno- rance on the point, He followed the woman, and was led up into _ ball above, where she stopped to say, in whisper: ‘“Won’t you remove these before we go in?” holding out ber hande, ‘* Not necessary, madam,” Billy answered, ‘*T will open the door, and you can hold your hands clasped naturally.” A frown darkened the woman's brow, “Well, there is the room,” she snapped, indi- er by a nod of ber head, Billy prein g forward and opened the door, drawing back then and allowing the woman to enter the apartmeut ahead of him, ~ On the bed lay a man—a man past middle age, and one whom Billy recognized at a glance, although he had never seen him before in his life, He was very pale and thin, and evidently very weak, ‘*Gaffner, a young man to seo you,” Mrs, Sti- verson said, The sick man’s eyes were already upon Bill in a questioning way, and Billy stepped forward, saying: X Mr. Shyrock, [ am fro to find you, but sorry to find you so ill, I bope it may not come to the worst with you. Your family—” “My God!" the sick man gasped an interru tion, baving raised bimself upon bis elbow, ** Do you know the truth? Then spare me, spare me, spare me! Let me bide my crime and my shame in death, she sone was errs at her husband in speechless amazemen “That would be a good idea, were death the end,” remarked Billy; *‘ but it is not the end, Just as surely as we live now we shall live ain, sir, “eine sick man only groaned, “What does this mean?” asked the woman, looking from one to the other, “*] will leave it for your husband to tell you if be desires to do so, roe made reply, hoping on, thus to draw out a con punished—pun- “Tt means that I am bei ished for my crime,” the sick tan sedly 20D
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14 fessed, ‘It means that I must right the wrong before it is forever too late. My dear wife, bow 1 have cheated and wronged her!” ‘*Don’t waste your sympathy in her direc- ‘tion, sir,” said Billy. ‘ She has been cheating and wronging you none the less—” ‘‘Sir, your promise,” the woman sharply in- terrupted. ‘‘Tremember what it was,” Billy made re- sponse. ‘I don’t intend to break it, madam,” ‘*What does this mean?’ the sick man ques- tioned, ‘‘I meant my true wife,” ‘*T will leave it for this woman to tell you, if she desires to do so,” Billy said, making reply the same as he had made to the woman a mo- ment before, With that he stepped back, and the man and woman faced each other. ** W bat does it mean?” the man asked, ‘*What does it mean in your case?” the coun- ter-question. At that moment hasty steps were heard in the hall, and the door was flung open and a young ‘woman rushed in, It was Florence Stiverson, and her face was Hushed with excitement and the haste she had evidently been making, and her breathing was quick, **Oh! papa,” she cried, ‘if you only knew!” She gave a scornful glance at Mrs, Stiver- 80n as she suid it. “Only knew what, my child?” the sick man asked, “ The Meda you have suffered. This wo- aman has been false to you!” She pointed with scorn at the guilty wife, vio cowered before her, and her form trem- ‘*Tt is not for me to fling the first stone at her,” said the sick man, sorrowfully. ‘ My ‘Own evil deeds are coming home to me now.” The girl looked at him in amazement, “* What can you mean?” she asked. “*T mean that of all miserable beings, Iam the most miserable; that, of all guilty scoundrels, Lam the worst.” **Oh, papa, do not say so; no one ever had so good a father as you have been to me,” The sick man gave a sob, chokingly. ** Call me not father!” he said. ‘‘ Curse me, rather, Hateme. Say something bitter against ie Say the worst you can think, I deserve it all, for an explanation, The girl looked ie eS hen eee ae mu going out o} ** Surely, my poor fat his mind,” she said, “Not so,” Billy assured, ‘but he is in the frame of mind to do what he can to undo the wrong he hasdone. Mr, Shyrock, whom shall I send for?” *Shyrock!” the girl cried, “Your father and Hickman Shyrock are one and the same,” Billy explained. With a cry the girl reeled back, and would have fallen had she not found support against the wall, “What does it mean?” demanded the wife in name, once again. “It means that I have been leading a double life,” the sick mafi confessed. ‘It means that I have two wives, under different names, and you are one, It means that I have lived a lie with you these dozen years,” ° He then turned to Broadway Billy. “You may send for my lawyer, Mr. Hedge- ley,” he said, ‘‘ and for witnesses, I am ready to confess, for I feel that death is near, and that it were better to lift the load from my own soul in this world, if I can, than to carry it with me into the world to come,” ‘* Miss Stiverson, will you call a servant?” Billy requested. The girl, pale and trembling, nodded, and stepped into the hall for that purpose. A servant was soon there, and Billy writing several brief notes and directing them, requested Miss Stiverson to send the servant with them in all haste, This was done, and when tbe servant had gone Billy proposed that nothing further be said re- garding the complicated matter pending the arrival of the lawyer and the witnesses who had been sent for. CHAPTER XVII. A DYING MAN’S STORY. BILLy's proposal was not carried out fully, nor did he insist that it should be, for he was eager enough himself to learn all he could from w among the three persons present, hey all talked, while they waited; and al- though their wait was quite a long one it was re- warded at last, Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket. In the mean time Harry and Seth had been having a jubilee. Shadowing the Stiverson mansion, Seth had seen Robiston come and enter the house. His stay wasashort one, and when he took his leave his face was decidedly troubled and he went away in more haste than he had come, The Silent Shadower was upon his trail, cleverly disguised, and he clung to him with determination, never arousing a suspicion, and followed him straight to Horace Shyrock’s store, There he fell in with Happy Harry, who was shadowing young Shyrock,and they madea hasty comparison of notes, In a brief time the two rascals came forth from the store, Both were pale and worried, and Shyrock carried a grip and had an overcoat over his arm, They looked keenly around them, but saw nothing to arousé their suspicions. A colored youth was a little distance away down the street, and a ragged bootblack was sitting on his box across the way. These, of course, were hardly noticed, much less suspected. The two men hastened away from the store, er the two young ferrets kept them well in sight, No stop was made till they came to a house on —— street, where Robiston entered in haste while Shyrozk waited, butsoon reappeared simi- larly armed with a grip and overcoat, ‘They mean to light out, sure,” said Harry to Seth, as they observed their actions from a handy place of concealment. **'You are right,” Seth agreed, ‘‘ but we mean to see to it that they don’t. We must handle our case with mighty good care, now, or it may get away with us,” When the men resumed their way they set out after them as before, far enough behind to avoid detection, and so continued till they fell in with a policeman, when Seth stopped. his had been arranged with Harry, and he kept straight on after the game. ‘Know me?” Seth asked the officer. No, you rascal, I don’t,” was the answer he got, ‘* Well, I don’t wonder, for I hardly know myself, I’m one of Broadway Billy’s team.” * You!” Yes. But come along this way whilo I tell you something, for there is some game ahead that mustn’t get away.” ‘*Can you prove what you say, that you are one of Billy Weston’s team?” ‘* Here’s my badge; take a look at that.” ‘* Well, 1’m hanged! But come along, and I'll hear what you have to say. It may be something important, for all I know.” ‘Tt is important. Heard of the Stiverson bank robbery, haven’t you?” ‘Yes. Don’t mean to say you are on that case?” ‘** Nothing less, and the two men ahead there whom Harry is following are the robbers, We've got them dead to rights, and the signs of the times are that they mean to skip out and leave us in the lurch if they can. We want you to take them in and prance them down to Head- quarters, and if we are not right Broadway Billy will stand all the blame.” ‘** You amaze me, young fellow. Come on, and we'll scoop them,” So the policeman hastened forward with Seth, soon overtaking Harry, and they followed their suspects to the Central, There they allowed them to buy tickets, but when that had been done Seth’s policeman and another stepped up to them and arrested them, giving them the usual warning not to resist. The two men were bighly indignant, at first, and denied everything, but when Harry and Seth stepped up and made themse!ves known their denials turned to curses, They were burried off to Headquarters, where tievy arrived juss about the time the inspector received a note from Broadway Billy. ‘* This is Juck,” the inspector cried, ‘‘ Here your chief wants me to send out and find you and bring you to him, with your suspects, and you walk in upon me at the moment you are wanted,” The situation was explained all around, and a rty set out for the residence of Gaffner tiversou, When they arrived there they were taken at once to the room where the sick man lay, and where they were being awaited. They were the last of the expected ones to arrive, Mrs, Shyrock and her daughter had arrived just a few niinutes ahead of them, and the meet- ‘her, ing between the husband and the lawful wife had been a tearful one, though no explanation had as yet been made. The company was now complete, There were Broadway Billy and his team, the inspector, Mr. Sbyrock, of course, and, his wife, son, and daughter; Mrs, Stiverson, Miss Stiverson, Beaumont Robiston, and the lawyer; Vance Willey, Spencer Witherton, and Mr, Stiverson’s doctor. The latter had been sent for, asthe sick man had shown symptoms of being decidedly worse, ‘“Are we all here, young gentlemen?” the lawyer asked, addressing Billy. Mr, Stiverson, or Skyrock—it matters little what we call him now, had made the lawyer ac- quainted with what was required of him. ‘* Yes, sir, we are all here and ready,” Billy answered, i ‘* And haste had better be made with the busi- ness,” the doctor spoke, gently. ‘Well, Mr. Stiverson,” the lawyer said, ‘‘ we are ready to hear your confession. With somany witnesses present we will reduce it to writing.” ‘* Impossible to do so,” said the doctor, warn- ing them again, ‘‘ You had better make what haste you can, gentlemen,” ‘* Yes, I will hasten,” spoke the dying banker, “for I can feel that the end is very near, This is my story, in brief, and it is the solemn truth, every word. Pay close attention, ‘** People who knew Gafftner Stiverson and mea dozen years ago can tell you how closely we resembled each other in looks. We were often mistaken one for the other. He and I were friends, and often helped each other in business, and I knew pretty much all of his, ‘t But, at last, we quarreled, over a trifling mat- ter. It was in my office, one night, and in my anger I hurled a paper weizhtat him anditstruc him on the head, killing him instantly, I wasal- most crazed at what I had done, and what to do I did not know. I saw the gallows looming up before me, and believed that my only hope lay in concealing my crime, ** At first I thought of changing clothes with him, and making it to appear, if possible, thatit was I that had been killed; but immediately I saw how useless that would be, for then tke crime would fall apon Stiverson, and I would probably suffer for it all the same, But, that thought gave rise to another, which I seized upon with all the hope born of despair. Could [ not carry on both personalities? 1 would try it, let come what might. ‘*T carried the body down into the dank cel- lar under the building, and there I buried it deeply and carefully, spending al] night over the task, I had, of course, removed all the clothing, and the body was buried stark naked, That done, I put on the dead man’s clothing, pac’ed my own ina grip, and set out at once for Philadelphia, and from chere telegraphed in both names that I had been called suddenly away, stating when I might be expected home, Tmadea difference of three days in the time, sothat I might carry on one character chat Jengta of time. ‘*T came back as Gaffner Stiverson, fell into his place, and in a little time I had my grip upon his affairs so that I was able to carry on the deception successfully, Then I had to be called away for a few days, in order that Hick- man Shyrock might nope I hired a room permanently in a cheap hotel at Newark, and taking the train for Philadelphia, would get off there nine cases out of ten, returning to this city within the hour as another man. I opened branches of both businesses in Philadelphia, in order to hide my secret work, and so for years I have carried on my double life to the present time,” He had been speaking in a low, excited tone, and now he stopped for want of breath. The doctor, with finger on his pulse, shook his head in ar omivous manner, as if to signify that the end was drawing near, ‘““My marriage with this woman,” the dying man presently went on, ‘‘ was the outcome of an attempt on her part to blackmail me, a scheme which I was in no position to fight, for it would place me in danger of exposure, and my crime might become known, [I fell into her snare an easy prey, and my pity for her in this hour is not very keen. hatever position she finds herself in, she has herself to blame for it, But to my murdered friend’s child I have tried to be a father, indeed, trying to make upin some measure for my crime in my goodness to I have not been blind to the fact that my son loved ker, and I have done all in my power to oppose their union, for he is inno way worthy of her, There was little danger of his success, however, for she despises him, and it is with a ~ ~ > ot
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Broadway Billy’s Bank Racke t. 15 pleasure that I learn she loves Vance Willey, a prince among men. **To you, my, wife, and you, my daughter, what canI say? If you can forgive me, do so, You are aware, Grace, that Spencer Withertorn loves you. You cannot make a better choice of a worthy man. Marry him. For you, my wife, my love bas never dimmed, and my decep- tion with you has ever been a burden upon my soul, I bave hated myself for it, and more than once have I seriously contemplated endiog it in suicide, Forgive me if you can find it in your heart todoso, You can never know howI have suffered. I bave no more to say, nor strepgth tosayitifI bad. I am dying. My fortune I have willed to you and Grace cutting Horace off with a dollar, for I have seen the evil of bis way. The Stiverson fortune will go to Florence of course. This woman can claim none of it, for she was never the wife of Gaffner Stiverson, I would recommend her to the continued com- anionship of Beaumont Robiston, I have not m altogether blind to their clandestine schemes,” Mr. Shyrock paused again, as if to rest, but ‘with a sudden sigh he expired. The end of his double life had come. For several minutes the room was silent, save for the sobbing of Mrs, Shyroch and ber daugh- ter, and Florence Stiverson, The latter was the first to speak, Stepping forward to Mrs, Shyrock and her daughter, and placing an arm around each neck, she said with deep feeling: ‘*My mother, my sister, let us forgive him. His burden was a heavy one, and many a time I have seen him in agony and tears when he thought no one saw him, Let us forgive him,” And so they did. Clasped in one another's arms, their tears commingled, and in that mo- ment the past was buried and the future opened for them anew, The rivalry between the two girls was ended at the same time, and their em- race done, each turned and gave her hand to the man who loved her most. _ To mention all tbat was said and done is now impossible, for space will not allow. The guilty ones were led away by the detectives, and were finally sent to the fate they justly deserved. Vance Willey and Florence Stiverson, an Spencer Witberton and Grace Shyrock, were eventually married, and all areas bappy as the average of those who launch upon the matri- monial sea, Broadway Billy and his Beagles were given much praise for the manner in which they had worked out the case is so briefatime. When Billy and the superintendent opened the notes they had sealed in each other's presence, it_ was found that both papers were worded exactly the same—‘‘ Hickman Shyrock and Gaffner Stiverson one man,” It had so turned out, Billy and the boys are still in the harness, read for anything that may turn up, and it will be our pleasure, at no distant day, to tell of their further doings. THE END. Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Rival: OLD GIDEON’S WIPE-OUT. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘* DEADWOOD DICK” NOVELS, ETO, OPENING SCENE, DEADWOOD DICK DOWNED. ‘HANDS up, Deadwood Dick!” Ringing the order, startling the command, prompt the compliance}! A. horseman, medium in size but broad of shoulder and strong of limb, suddenly confront- ed by half a dozen armed men, The rider wasa young man, seemingly not over thirty years of age, with dark hair and mustache and keen, piercing, magnetic black eyes; and having brought his horse to a stop he coolly asked: * Well, what’s wanted?” *“You ar’ wanted, Deadwood Dick, that’s what’s wanted,” he was promptly told, ‘‘ You have come to ther end of yer rope now—or any- how ye will be at the end of et in Jess p an hour —the noose end.” ‘ The lone horseman smiled, spite of his danger- ous situation. ‘* You have made a mistake this time, gentle- men,” hedeclared. ‘‘ My name is not Deadwood Dick.” ‘Bah! go tell that ar’ to the buzzards, won’t yer? Don’t ye s’pose we know ye well enough?” ‘* But,” and the horseman spoke seriously, *‘ I tell you Tam not he. For once in your life, my man, you have made a mistake, “That don’t go down, You can’t git off wi’ that kind o’ yarn,” “Tt is the truth.” **An’I tell ye I know better. T haven’t gone cross-eyed sence I seen ye last time, an’ I guess Vd orter know ye. Dusky Dick is waitin’ fur ye, and thar will bea choker party when we take yein, Ha! ba! ha!” ‘** Dusky Dick, the Dark Dread? You would not give me into Ais hands? By all that you hold dear I entreat you to let me go, and I will reward you greatly. 1 will take you with me and give you double what you can hope to gain by serving this devil in human guise,” “Hal ka! ha! Snow ther white feather, do ye? I thort ye would, ef ever we got our claws on ye. Nary alet go fer you, Deadwood Dick, till we let ye go at ther endof arope, Ther captain has been expectin’ you, sooner or later, and has been ready and waitin’ to receive ye, Keep yerself quiet, now, or you'll have ter be taken to him dead.” The leader of the half-dozen bad given a sig- nal, and his companions had flung themselves upon the horseman and were binding him hands and feet. ** But I tell you this isa mistake!” the prisoner protested, struggling to free himself, “I am not Deadwood Dick! Free me, and give me a chance to prove who and what I am!” ‘*Nary a free, me noble Richard, We'll hang ye first, and then try yer case after that, and ef we find ye innercent we’ll draw up reserlushuns of regret, or somethin’ of that sort. Bring him on, pards, and we’ll hand him over to ther cap- tain fer him ter deal with.” Their work accomplished, they moved for- ward, one of their number running on ahead as though to carry the good news in advance, oc thi Dick, if it was he, was in a desperate strait, “Hyer they come! Hyer they come!” So cried the crowd, and the guardsmen, witb their prisoner, were seen approaching, They shouted and bhurrahed wildly then until the party came pear, when those who claimed to have seen Deadwood Dick before cried out: ‘‘That’s him, captuin! Don’t need but one look at that face, ter know et! He is ther cuss} Rooster Rube has made no mistake! You are in ther fix of yer life this time, boy!” The prisoner, pale, but determived, faced the angry crowd without flinching in tho least, * Deadwood Dick, I am glad for this oppor- tunity of making your acquaintance,” greeted Dusky Dick, with mock politeness, “‘T can’t say that I’m proud to make yours,” was the stern retort, ‘‘ But I desire to set you right on one point—I am not Deadwood Dick! 1 have no desire to rob that gentleman of any honors that are rightfully bia.” The crowd laughed loudly at that, **No, I suppose not,” rejoined the chief, “But, as it happens, you are positively recognized by at least half a dozen men here, so your story don’t go down. Andif there could possibly be a mistake it wouldn’t help you any for we'd give you the benefit of the doubt and hang you anyhow,” “He can bet his life we would!—beggin’ your pardon, cap’n, fer stickin’ in my lip,” cried Gideon Gripes, ‘Thar’s war to ther knife ‘tween us and you, Deaier-than-wood Richard, me hint war will be ended right hyer, you et. ‘You needn’t beg pardon of me for talking that way, pard,” the brigand chief waived. ‘* But, I tell you you do mistake,” urged the prisoner, ‘* Search me, if you will, and see if you find anything on me to prove what you charge,” ** What’s ther use?” cried Rooster Rube, ** We wouldn't expect ter find yecomin’ hbyer with yer name branded on ye,” ‘That's what's ther matter!” cried another of the crowd, “ Et ain’t no-use.” “What is your name, then, since you deny al gai as Deadwood Dick?’ asked the ‘“ My name is Philip PbilJips.” “ Philip Phillips Ties like fin,” cried Rooster Rube, ‘*Confound it, what is ther use o’ your hoidin' out when so many of us knows ye?” ** What ar’ He going to do with him, though, Captain Dick?” inquired old Gideon, ‘* A new idee has jest popped inter my mind, the reason Iask. Do ye really nan ter yank him?” “Certainly I mean@it! What else Wo you think I would do with him? But, what is your idea?” The old man was about to respond, when a woman’s scream was heard, All looked in the direction whence the sound had come, and beheld a woman running toward them, arms outstretched, ** Save him!’ she cried, Rim? 12” “Thunder!” cried Dusky Dick, and his face grew darker than ever, ‘* How has she managed to escape?” Even as he questioned, a hideous old hag was seen running after the woman, and as she ran she called out loudly to the crowd: ‘*Ketch that she wildcat! Ketch her! Pll bet Pl) scar her purty face fer her, fer the trick she played on me! Don’t let her ‘scape, and don’t let her git no weepon!” On the woman came, apparently seeing noth- ing but the prisoner, and she pareed her way to- ward him till roughly stopped by Dusky Dick. ‘* Here, what means this?” he demanded, * Richard! Richard!” the woman — rather girl—cried, “ why did you venture here? They will murder you!” ** My God!” the Serpe? gasped, as if intended to be unheard, ‘* Kate—” But be cut himself short at that, while the crowd broke out with a wild whoop, ‘‘ Ain't that ther proof?” they yelled. ‘She has called him Richard; what more d’ye want "1 that? Let’s string him right up, let’s have ther fun right now while we all feel like et,” ‘No! no! nol” the young woman cried, wildly ‘Spare him, spare him! Tako my life, if you will, but spare him!” ‘*Ob, yes, we are full of that, you bet!” laugh- ed Dusky Dick, detaining her by force. ‘*We prefer beauty to the beast, every time, my little tiger cat, Don’t hurt yourself straggling so,” he young woman, who could not be more than twenty-two years of age, fought like a tiger to free herself, ‘*Let me go, monster!” she cried. ‘ Let me o! If you will kill him, show me the mercy to et me die with him,” The man had tried to force himself to be calm, but impossible, He now tugged at bis bonds till the veins stood out upon his face like ridges raised by the blows of a whip. ‘‘Hree me,” he hissed, ‘and I'll fight the whole of you! Free me, and more than one of you shall bite the dust before you deal death to me, Free me, just long enough to—” ‘* Well, hardly,” drawled the brigand ebief, ‘¢ We'll take care of you, and then we’ll see that the lady is well cared for after that, so there will be nothing for you to worry about, Sorry not to oblige you, but it can’t—” “Curse you! Ill have—” The desperate struggling of the prisoner bad loosened his feet, which had been tied together underneath his horse, and he-»slipped over and would have toppled off had it not been for old Gideon, who sprung forward and caught him in his arms, and together they fell to the ground, “No, ye don’t!” he cried aloud, the next mo- ment, ‘' No, ye don’t, me noble Dicky Dead- wood! Not while Gideon Gripes is around ter take a hand in things, Whar’s that ar’ rope ye ar’ goin’ ter use, cap’n?” With a wild scream, at that, the woman faint- ed, and Du:ky Dick gave her into the arms of the old hag, saying: ‘Here, Jezebel, take her back; and mind, you do not harm one hair of her head, if you value your withered old life. Bring a rope, boys, and short work shall be made of Deadwood Dick. Bring him to his feet, Gideon, and we'll show i how we do such business here at Bank Gar- en,” For the balance of this latest and most in- tensely interesting Deadwood Dick novel >ee BEADLE’s HALF-Diwe Liprary No 816, now ready, and for sale by all newsdealers at five cents per copy. **Save him! oh! save The Drapwoop Dick Novexs—of which 4 list is here given—ave concededly the most noted and popular stories of Detective, Cityand Wild West life in American literature All ate in print and will be supplied by your Newsdealer, Each story or issue, of course, is complete in itself—forming one episode or case In the Prince of Detectives’ remarkable career as enemy of evil-doers and agent of the U, 8, Secret Service in unraveling the mysteries of cases which vaffie the skill of local detectives and officers of the law,
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Ffroadway Billy Novels in eadle's fat fime | ibrarys By J. C. Cowdrick. 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo; or, Brought to Bay by a Bold Boy, 514 Broadway Billy’s Boodle; or, Clearing up a Strange Case, 586 Broadway Billy’s “‘ Diffikilty;” or, Old Rod- man’s Millions, 557 Broadway Billy’s Death Racket; or, The Street Arab’s Wake, 579 Broadway Billy’s Surprise Party; or, The Chimney Spy. 605 Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big lnnings. 628 Broadway Billy’s Dead Act; or, The League of the Sworn Seven. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad; or, The Bootblack Bravo in San Francisco, 675 Broodway Billy’s Best; or, Beating San Francisco’s Finest. 687 Broadway Billy in Clover; or, The Ruction at Lake Tulare, 696 Broadway Billy in Texas; or, Rounding Up the Red River Rustlers, Bing San Praxis Poi Foret ay Fear, aprons S Af Fl on ie mera 28 he whee af Be 708 Broadway Billy’s Brand: or, The New York Delegates in Hard-up Camp, 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Pard Detectives’ Clever Deal. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand; or, The Gamin Detective’s Double Snap at Santa Fe, 735 Broadway Billy’s Business; or, Waking Up Wind Canyov Camp. 788 Broadway Billy’s Curious Caso; or, The Mysterious Disappearance at Manitou Springs. 758 Broadway Billy in Denver; or, The On-the- Catch Combination. 762 Broadway Billy’s Bargain; or, The Three Detectives in Denver. 769 Broadway Billy, the Retriever | «\ective; or, How the City Buzzards Were Brought In, Me RnreVHygy | eT 3. ¢ CORDRIDE, paoapWat UALS SAAR oe “RSs Whecswenm oon 775 Broadway Billy’s Shadow Chase; or, Materi- alizing the Spo-ks, 788 Broadway Billy’s Beagles; or, The Detective Trio’s Uncanny Quest, 786 Broadway Billy’s Team; or, The Detective Combine’s Big Pull. 790 Broadway Billy’s Brigade; or, The Case of the Dead Alive, 796 Broadway Billy’s Queer Bequest; or, Sifting the Santvoord Secret. + 800 Broadway Billy Buffled; or, The Team’s Toughest Tug. 805 Broadway Billy’s Signal Scoop; or, The Strangest Case on Record, 810 Broadway Billy’s Wipe-Out; or, Tbe Gen- tleman Tramp. 815 Broadway Billy’s Bank Racket; or, The City Detective’s Big Haul, ! 818 Clean Grit, the Boy Hustler. Latest and New Issues, 808 Dick Doom’s Death Clue, : Ingraham, | 809 Don Danton, the Gent from Denver. By King Keene of the U.S. Secret Service Corps, | 810 Broadway Billy’s Wipe-Out, | Cowdrick. | 811 Duke Derby, the Trum light Harry’s Flyer. By Col, Prentiss By J. C. Card; or, Head- y Col, A, F, Holt, 812 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Head Off. By E. L. Wheeler, 818 Dick Doom’s Diamond Deal, tiss Ingraham. 814 Ace High, the Frisco Detective. Tripp. 815 sep Billy’s Bank Racket. By J.C, Cowdrick. 816 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s [Rival. L, Wheeler, By Col. Pren- By C. E, By Edward eT nee arn 817 Wideawake, the Train-boy Detective, Col, A. F, Holt. a et wee per By By William G. Patten, Ready March 28th, 819 Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. Ready April 4th. A New Issue Every Tuesday, BEADLE’s Haty-Drwe Lisrary is for sale by al) newsdealers at five cents Pe copy, or sent by mail, post-paid, on receipt of six cents each, BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William street, New York. |