Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 829) (1893 06 13)
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ty Metical} Zs Zz en Ze YS > each tei oS z Copyrighted 1898, by BEADLE AND ADAMS. June a 1898, 4 Entered as Second Class Matter at the New yYock. N.Y, | Post Office. $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, Jo. 829. a ele eb i & Kemer. No. 98 WILLIAM STRE STREET, NEW ee ee ee 5 DOOR Livers Scents, Vol. XY IL. Ti UROOK mM WR. “tl i ii a r = | [ i Hie | im | iy Vat ios all Finite eee | Ri) Oe Hi iis i | AMT il mal i) BT rh Eo hs i) aT ey fy — id hy i a a a Ja : ral | nit] | LS a] | I) . a me Herat Wi ‘a j VS i i We ye t id ih | | oe ee a [@ P i H ! ; rhe it , nee ki i , ee Ta tat {Hi} i ‘ % ted —>-.. BS SS WY a | f a A . ~ oe SS fig ane {i \ iw \ > Ha : BEL Gf i ~ ; rh Hata it! =. \\ Wil ¢ — i | ‘4p oT H ~ - . Bt iit al Ee > SUT SR } SS a Hey ' LA?“ : ‘ iit H i ny : ns . i / fl * < \ " j i | Hi : % a , s = Hil . bil } vi a Ah elites fA te ~ or td iy a 4 ] WZ "i ¥ Fy Sila vs i HR . aad ¢ fits Hh \ i OSS * “ l } o “UES, ZF * Lae any PUTT } - ( AG wy iv 4 + Yi, appt] Z . 1) \ Hite i | ’ Nf) a 4 q Wit SOMA eT i, i", " | A Y J UP Ps . We Nu wiht it shale -) ) Ae t ai font { ‘ Yi y Wij my ' | Se , Lt Ke” ( \ ‘ ej fj “ij Vy Wipili i) a | } ' 7 7: . uw <cgy Yi y ZY Z ; “it Au F o som // }y/ , : | hh i yy WAL: d 4 Je a ‘ MUL! 6 a f } UD if Waitt , é, tis att yy Why fff} Y YY \ lj Wath ES nal) ‘ 1 4 } t % iti if AN { t f A i { j { i | | \\ 7 ua rent ml il Ce ' ‘l \ ae Tar ——~ FOR ree DICK DOOM, THE FAMOUS DETECTIVE, HAD BEEN CAUGHT OFF HIS GUARD, AND HE WAS Nes serrate IN oe saber HANDS, ea 1 erty ee tte ny are “ect ys c- = . 3 © Ks ee 8 é . <_ = = 3 is ax - ~ 2 ~~ — Sie maa) — oa yen ———
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2 The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. DICK DOODVDS SHADOW HUNT. BY COL. PRENTISS INGRAHAM. CHAPTER I. MURDER OR SUICIDE. Auonea Michigan avenue, in the great City of Chicago, a man was strolling leisure- ly, though the hour was past midnight. He seemed to be enjoying the view of the long line of street lamps stretching away upon either hand, and the glimmer of lights» in the windows of the hotels and residences facing upon the popular thoroughfare. Turning off of the avenue he crossed the green sward and walked out upon. a pier jutting some distance into thé lake. _ Standing there, gazing. out upon the waters, and listening to the wash of the waves against the pier, he started as he suddenly heard a voice far out upon the lake, and it was raised in a cry for help, He could not pierce the blackness ahead, and so what caused that cry was shut out of sight from him; but though faintly heard, again and again came the piteous. appeal: f hg Help! I am being murdered /” And the cry was tn a woman’s voice | The one who, standing there alone in the darkness, an hour after midnight, -heard that pleading cry, stood like one dazed. Behind him was all the brightness of the. city; before him was all the blackness of | night upon the lake. And that blackness was hiding some deed | fyom all eyes but those who were out there upon the waters. The cries ceased and nothing more was heard, save the snarl of the waves. Stillness that was ominous rested out upon the waters, while behind, the rumble of be- lated vehicles and the busy hum of a city not yet in slimber was heard. At last the man spoke, and his words were; | ‘‘Some crime has been committed out yonder this night, and it was a woman who -was murdered, — “Oh! that I could pierce the darkness and see who had done the deed! — ured “*T will wait here and search the waters for an incoming boat, for surely whoever rowed out on the lake todo the deed, will. return to the city, ak | ‘‘T will watch and wait, for I can ie on the train to-morrow, and before I go I big report what I heard to the chief of po-— ee.™ And there through the night stood the man, — atching and waiting, his eyes straining abe the waters in search of an incoming at. “Bip i uy But, no mot came into view, and the hours dragged slowly by until the dawn came. * . Out over the waters now intently gazed the stranger, ; i The morning was calm, the lake was as placid as a mill-pond, but its bosom revealed nothing of the deed done under cover of the darkness. ie . Going toa hotel near by the stranger wrote a few lines, addressing them to the Chief of | Police of Chicago. ; Then he went to his room in the hotel, paid his bill and started for the station and was soon after being whirled away out-. ward at a rapid rate in an Express train. © ‘The next morning he bie mn ased a paper on the train and @uaclog over it his eyes fell upon the following in the telegraph dis- __ patches from Chicago: — EEN chk ws } ‘(4 BEAUTIFUL SUICIDE. | AK startling dincovery was made at the | -. home of Mr. Dunstan Marlborough this morn- _ dng, and one that is sad in the extreme.” ard | self: Enders, the beautiful young suicide. | policeman. | | manners were really refined. © fh eNO ellers,” esi, as the band gath- | River Ferrets, to read you something I saw | jin bent ers yesterday morning, fend Jo.tell’ | you that ike case of murder or suicide, and just | where her grave is.” arr i wee esr “ et a ee et eee tae *‘Upon looking out of the window this | *‘Does yer mean the gal as was found morning Mrs. Marlborough discovered a | dead in the boat, Nick?” asked one. small boat upon the shore, for the grounds of the millionaire’s home reach down to the and giving the alarm to her husband, Mr. Marlborough bastened to the shore and made a very startling discovery, ‘*In the boat lay the form of a young and beautiful girl, her hands peacefully folded upon her breast, and one of them grasping a note. ‘*Taking the note from the lifeless hand, Mr. Marlborough read: “*T take my own life, and I alone am to blame. sed “*EsTeLLe ENDERS,’ **A bottle of chloroform lay in the boat, and a handkerchief that had been saturated with the drug; and that was all to betray the mode of death. “The body was richly dressed, and the watch, earrings and finger-rings, all of con- siderable value, were undisturbed, while in a purse in her pocket was a considerable sum of money, showing that it had been a pure and simple case of suicide, not one of murder and robbery. ‘* But, who is Estelle Enders is the ques- tion, for it seems that no one knows, while’ the cause of her taking her own life, young, beautiful, and certainly not in need, no one can understand, though naturally it is sup- posed to be a case of misplaced affection or unrequited love. ‘ & hint that it might have been a murder is ridiculed by the police, who assert that the girl took her own life.” | . Such was the article that the stranger read, and when he had finished it he said to him- “e I differ with the police, for I believe that Estelle Enders, whoever she may be, was murdered, and that it was her cry for help I heard out on the waters of the lake last night! , CHAPTER IL. _ THE RIVER FERRETS, Uron the banks of fhe Chicago River, in one of the worst portions of the World’s Fair city, and hiding away among a pile of boxes, sat a number of boys, on the morn- ing after the discovery of the body of Estelle The boys were of a class known as ‘‘ young toughs,” and though their attire was of various. kinds and colors, each one of them wore a gray slouch hat, around which was a red ord To all appearances the youths ‘were news- boys, bootblacks or idlers, and all but one were indulging in a cigarette, or cigar. — One of the band lay at length upon the top of a large box, ‘and was evidently there as a lookout, for he kept his eyes roving up and down the wharves, as though in search of a Tied to the wharf where they were was & small. row-boat, and it was convenient should they be forced to make a speedy retreat from some cause or other. — There were in the band just thirteen, and that they were allied for some purpose, good or bad, there was not ne slightest sta d The one who’ was not smoking looked to ve of a better class than his companions, was better dressed and appeared to be intelligent 2 re was a handsome one, and his eredabout him, ‘‘I called this meeting of our | want you to help me find out if it who the lady is, for there undoubtedly are. people who love her and would like to know } rahe AL Sins ‘tery ‘so mect me here then, all o the officers, te ‘Yes, Miss Estelle Enders.” ** What about her, Nick?” ** Well, just this. **You remember I got knocked downa year ago and hurt by a truck, when I was trying to save a little girl from being run over?” ‘Yes, you saved the gal, but got a broken arm for your pains.” “That was all right; but a lady who saw me go down called a hack and drove me to the hospital, and left money with the doctor ‘for me.” : ‘<7 remember.” me ‘‘Now, all I could find out about her was that the doctor told me she gave her name as Estelle Enders, and I do know that she came to see how I was several times, and she was a very beautiful girl. “When I saw that a lady by that name had taken her own life, I went to the under- taker’s and I'll tell you, fellers, it was my good friend, and I felt mighty bad over it, ‘But, my idea is that those who love her ought to know where she is buried, and I want to see if we cannot find out just who she was, for she was put in the grave this morning, through ‘the kindness of the gent on whose grounds the boat drifted, and not a soul knew her, and yet she must have kin- folks somewhere.” “Well, Nick, as you got us to band to- ether, to tryand make a litile money in Secret Service work, though the police is | ag’in’ us, and suspects us of being thieves, I ) says your word goes and we’ll see if we ‘can’t find out who ther pretty lady was for you,” said one. ‘I says the same,” “An me!’ ** Me too.” And so the words went the rounds until all had decided to go on the trail of the mys- “*T thank “ged fellers, and let me tell you that I don’t elieve that, young lady took her | own. life,” “You thinks she was murdered, Nick ?” “TJon’t see Why a girl who was 80 beau- tiful and was not in want, would kill herself, and if she did, why she would go out alone in a boat on the lake at night to do it.” ““That’s 80, Nick.” \y — Anyhow we must try What we can find out about her, 80 must watch the papers, see what the police say, and just go in to Win, “Tl be here poate at this time, you.» ' “The meeting is adjourned and just in time, for there goes Trumps’s note of warn- ing,” and a low whistle was heard from the sentinel on the box. _ . Instantly there was a scattering, three of the band dropping into the boat and rowing © away, two of them walking boldly out up the wharfs, several going in the opposite di- on and the balance hiding among the xes. é Wf) Among those who walked boldly out of the hiding-place, was the leader of the band, and who was known as Nick Norcross. CHAPTER IIL. | NICK’S RESOLVE. Two policemen were coming toward the scene of the meeting, but Nick did not make any effort to avoid them. . . ‘Say, young feller, what has been up to dow are pal deman grasping the youth by the shoul- der. — ; Brie Lohse: a dS aeneraee ag ne We were having a little talk and doing no harm, cop.” Ame Scam ae eC as believes yer lies, and I has a great mind run yer in, see?” B ies boys e e6 that you are always ready to arrest ocent boy, while you let guilty men scape,” was the bold response of the boy. — | i | done of |
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“In you goes, yer sassy brat,” cried the officer, and he started away with the lad while his companion walked on toward the scene of the meeting of t. *oung ferrets. q hea ‘* See here, officer; I haven't done anything if to be locked up for, and I don’t want to go Pit to jail, so take a fiver and let me off and ‘ai ; be your friend,” i ‘*Has you got ther five?” i “‘T have.” 4 ‘Well, it’s about what the judge would make you put up, so give it to me and git. “But, remember I has my eyes on you, . 4 young feller.” ‘ **T wont forget, cop,” and handing over | the five-dollar bill the youth hastened on after his companions. But they had skipped when they saw him in the grasp of the officer, and springing upon a car Nick rode out to the hospital an asked to see the doctor in charge, who had i kindly cared for him when he had a broken eg. ** Well, Nick, you are not here asa patient again, [ hope?” said the doctor, “No, indeed, sir; I’m all right; but I came lea’ to ask youif you.could give me any infor- F mation about that young lady who was so to me?” i ‘*No, Nick, I’ve even forgotten her name.” **Tt was Miss Estelle Enders, sir.” ‘* Yes, that was it, and—ha! now I recall where it was that I heard the name before when I saw the account in the papers of a young lady committing suicide two days ago, who signed her name Estelle Enders.” “Yes, sir, and I wish you could tell me something about her,” “IT know nothing, Nick, only that she brought you here and gave me money to see that you wanted for nothing, while that her name was Estelle Enders,” —__ ‘** You do not know whether she lived in ae Chicago, or not, sir?” ra : ‘‘No, but I have an idea that she was an - actress, from a simple remark that she made ee to me.” “What was* that, sir?” ug, “She told me that she could not come again to the hospital to see you, as she had to start away upon .a professional engage- ment, but when she came again to the city she would call and see if [had been to any additional expense for you and would pay » ! But good by doctor, for I must be off,” ng of the dead girl’s past life. . At last the idea struck him to go to the home of Mr. Marlborough and boldly ask to see the boat she had been found dead in. _ So to the millionaire’s home he went, and, as both Mr. and Mrs. Marlborough were away from home, a two-dollar bill won the _ friendship of the coachman, and he showed him, the boat, which no one had been to claim, and told him all he could of the story of the finding of the fair suicide. of _ Nick was a good questioner, and got all the information he could from the coach- man, who had been the oné to take the body from the boat. a _ He asked him about the jewelr she wore, and many other Fone and then wanted op tite know if he thought Mr. Marlborough would sell the boat. ‘i } “No, he dare not, young fellow, for he’s got to keep it in case any one comes to Claim it,” was the answer. ea Ing the coachman, left the grounds, ie BS _ But after getting a short distance away ‘he stopped, and regarding the lake-shore and position of the boat attentively, mut- - tered to himself: 2 Mit ae (on ‘I must have that boat, and I will! ON “i r v wre } ROMA adem g URE tis (7 Wee K ay e said | |} wouldn’t unlock the door,’ | mug, for ‘Nick took the situation all in, and thank- el, Le 3 = ‘ae ae vA . - ti » iy! “ yh a vy oa ie Tee wget ideas ps it, for it may be a clue to what I am deter- mined to find out.” t With this he started upon his return to the city to look up his side-pard, Pete Pepper. CHAPTER IV. THE YOUNG PLOTTERS. Nick Norcross went to what he was pleased to call his home. It was a room in a rickety building in an alley near the river, and two cots and a couple of chairs, witha tin basin and pitcher, constituted the furniture visible. If there was anything else, in the way of furnishing or wardrobe, i. was not visible. But in spite of its poverty, the room was neatly kept, and having shut the door and locked it, Nick drew aside one of the cots, and taking hold of a ring in the floor, raised a long, narrow trap-door. A stair-case was visible there, leading to a room on the floor below,¢gnd in this room were evidences of more comfort for the occu- pants, for there were several éasy-chairs, a table, writing-desk, and a couple of trunks, also shelves against the wall, There was a door leading out into a small flower garden, and a couple of windows, but the blinds were kept closed and the room, but for a lighted lamp, was in darkness. Seating himself in one of the chairs Nick began to meditate as he rocked to and fro, art was thus engaged when he heard a knock at the door of the room at the head of the stairs. He hastily went up to the room, closed the trap, replaced the cot and opening the door, when the knock was repeated, found there his room-mate and particular pard, Pete Pepper. ‘*T know’d yer was in, Nick, as my key ~ ‘Yes, I was waiting for you to come, Ee though I didn’t expect you before n g bide ““T got clear of the cops and so came home, thinking you’d be here.” © | | “ And I want you, Peter.” “Tm with yer, Nick,” was the prompt response, ‘‘T know that, old fellow, for you are true as steel.” | “Why should I be, Nick, when I owe my life to you? “I tell you, I think as much of you al- /most as I did my poor mother who died | three years ago. . ‘‘When she left me then it seemed I l went tothe bad. ‘* You was epen tm up different from me, for 1 knows, as well as the rest of the boys, that you was born rich and raised oa a silver i aa talk and actions {hain’t like ther rest of us. “Yes, Nick, lis your pal, and don’t you forgit it, so shout out what yer wishes me | terdoand I'll do it, if it’s ter strangle a cop,” and the boy dashed his hand across his" eyes as though he had recalled recollections that caused him to feel i ye ‘a _ Nick Norcross stretched forth his hand and grasped that of the other youth, while he said eee Be is ‘Yes, Pete, 1 was well born, and yet to- day Iam ona level with those who had not my advantages. ‘It may be all my fault, and maybe not, of that, now, for we but we won't spea have work todo.” - ‘« What is it?” ‘Well, it isnot to strangle a put it, Pete. but to steal a boat.’ } , We do want another boat, Niek, for our. _ “No, not that, for this one is to go in hid- ing as I need to find out who its maker was, ; | and then we can get at the one who pur- must hi b ' | chased it, for as that dear young lady was ~ “Yes, I'll get Pete to come with me to- | night, and as I can’t buy it, I'll just sneak found dead in it, somehow I ae ie vi yh LA i FL ayy} Lia, couldn’t control ther devil in my natur’ and cop, as you. ht dh |. ‘We are about a hundred and fifty yards — from the shore,” Nee Pe ee fa The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. | think her | ‘murderer can be traced by it.” aly Wadi 4 te a LRT 7 why oT hy br tal aks ‘a he 1 +O) AMBER OW Shee gt tt Spee ST AS bg without any clothes,” — a ie “We must not be caught, Pete.” ) Aiye oT ab ak tO | “T brought these sawed off oar-handles as ““You will think she was murdered, Nick?” of my head; ‘* Yes, I can’t get the idea out but, listen to my plan.” “* Yes, Nick.’ “There is an old shanty up near the lake- shore which is deserted.” “T knows it.” ‘We can have the boys to meet us at night, and you and I can get the boat and take it there.” ‘* 1 see,” ‘* Then all of us can lift it out and hide it in the loft of that old shanty.” «We can.” ' ‘** Once it is there we can find the maker of it, and then the one who bought it from him, for it is a new boat.” ‘*We'll track him, Nick.” ‘* Well, go and post all the boys you can find of our band, and tell them to be on hand, but to go to the shanty one at a time.” ‘* Tl do it.” . “Then meet me at the river to-night where our boat Number One is kept,” ‘* At what time, Nick?” ** Say about nine o’clock.” **T’ll be there, sure.” Then the two boys parted, after making a few other arrangements for their night’s work, which both knew would be attended with great danger. CHAPTER V. THE YOUNG MARAUDERS. ce At the appointed hour Pete Pepper met Nick Norcross at the rendezvous, and report- ed to him that the boys had been posted as to what they were to do, and all was ready for the midnight marauding expedition, Going to the dock, where a number of boats were kept for hire, the two youths got the oars from the boatman and entering one of the small craft pulled rapidly out into the lake. They were fine oarsmen, and pulled a strong, rapid stroke which sent the boat along at a pace of over four mile an hour, The lights of the city were on their star- board side, and some distance away, for they wished to keep well out of sight, : Without a rest upon the oars they held on for an hour and a half, and were far er from the busy part of the city, so they turne the bow shoreward, | _As they drew near the shore they rested i on ig oars and glancing behind them Nick said: | ‘ oe you see those lights there, Pete?” ce oes,” * ° i ‘Well, they are in the Marlborough mans sion,” . ‘** And the boat is there?” ‘‘Yes, drawn up on the Jawn about ten aes from the water.” ‘f And how far from the house?” ‘‘About two hundred feet, and half that distance from the stables.” ; i i ‘We must row in mighty quiet, Nick.” | x iy ‘* We will not row in,” “* How’ll we git thar?” ** Swim!” ! ‘* Lordy!” patch A ALI ia ae “Why, Pete, ‘Gi are surely not afraid, © when you are such a splendid swimmer?” “T hain’t afeerd of the swim, Dick, but if we is run in we'll look kinder cool dressed a Ware ‘That's so. _ “Now, what’s to be done?” ny i ‘ * Just about,” “Well, we'll anchor our boat, then undress _ NM and swim ashore. rollers; so ee can take one and I the other, and as the boat has no painter, for one. The boat's oars are in the bar ai ‘ ea vf my thy ad e r aA WS bot. t a ETE GEN SBOE MSPLE bir tl ey SNe ary Mae Maton ek at here isrope in Le, riy ihe 4
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4 when we strike water we must paddle her out here and take her in tow.” *“ You is captain, Nick, and I the crew, so give your orders.” “Well, undress now and slip into the water without a splash.” The anchor was then let down and the two youths began to undress in silence, the boat rocking lightly upon the waves which a light wind from the lake sent shoreward. Slipping into the water noiselessly, they raced the rollers under their breasts as a sind of a buoy and started shoreward with easy strokes, Nick carrying a coil of rope about his neck. They had quite a long swim of it, but little they cared as they were splendid swim- mers, and dreaded the land much more than they did the lake, As they neared the shore they saw the lights go out in the mansion, and darkness reigned upon all. \ There was a bulkhead upon the grounds, protecting the shore, and around this they swam, and the water being deep just there |. up to the very lawn, they continued swim- ming until they reached the beach almost. Then they paused to rest and reconnoiter, As they did so Nick Norcross placed his hand upon the shoulder of Pete Pepper. The other was at once on the alert and whispered: ‘*What is it?” Nick silently pointed to the shore, and there through the darkness, was seen the out- line of the boat lying keel up on the lawn, and beside it stood the form of aman! ~ The boys hardly breathed in their suspense, and watched the shore with the deepest at- tention, for they saw the man move slowly about the boat. As they watched they saw him bend over one end of the boat, and as he half rose it was discovered that he was moving the bow slowly around by an effort of his strength, which was great, to do what he did. . Then he went to the stern and lifted it even with the bow. ‘# Pete?” ‘* Yes, Nick.” ‘That fellow is stealing the boat,” whis- pered Nick, his lips close to Pete’s ear. ‘Sure: .; 4 By the process of moving the bow, then the stern, the man was getting the boat nearer and nearer to the water, and he was doing his work well and silently. Nick saw that the boat had been moved further up on the lawn since he had seen it, and that this solitary thief would have to bring it at least fifty feet before he got it in- to the water. ‘*He is saving us trouble, Pete.” ‘Yes, if we can get it from him,” “We must, or at least will see where he takes it and know who he is and why he is stealing the boat.” **[’'m with you, Nick.” ‘*Then, when he reaches the water with it, we will call a halt and capture him.” “Good! only I don’t feel very brave tack- lin’ a fellow in my undress uniform, Nick.” Wan can do nothing else, Pete, so be rea aA? : “I'm with yer,” was the response of Pete Pepper, and he meant what he said. ' CHAPTER YI. A DEATH-STRUGGLE. THE two boy pals in the water up tc their necks, remained pies «3 the silent worker ashore with the deepest interest allied with suspense as to what the outcome would be, ’ Standing in water was not conducive to eg the nerves cool when the body was cold; but though shivering as with a chill, the twe youths remained at their post await- _ ing the result of their adventure. he man who was so silently and success- _ fully stealing the boat, showed that he pos- " 5 - 4 ae, nae} US Sopa Ny 3 Ca a si 4 fle te i \ i wf4 E i Pe 7 ‘ bts i * : fe a hentai ae AE SPR OE ee aot Ce kD i treat you as I did that coachman!” was the { ee ee ee - sessed a strength far above the average, and he was seen to have almost a giant frame. For two youths, strong though they might be, to measure their strength with his would be dangerous in the extreme, and yet though they knew the risk they did not shrink from the ordeal, though Pete Pepper several times whispered: ‘‘Oh! if I only had my clothes on.” > At last the man got the bow of the boat to the edge of the water, and going to the stern he made another lift. This enabled him to next lift the bow well into the water, when he went to the stern, co it and thus shoved the boat into the ake. He held one foot in it, to keep it from drifting away, while he tied a rope in it and made it fast to a tree, Then he glided silently away toward the stables. . ‘‘Now is our chance, Nick,” cried Pete eagerly. ** What for?” , ‘To cut and run off with the boat.” +N." ** Why not?” ** Tt will not tell us who that man is,” ‘What you want to know fer, if yer gits ther boat?’ ‘*T wish to know why he wants the boat and who he is.” ““T see.” ‘‘He is not stealing this boat without a greater motive than simply to get possession of it for its value.” . **T guess he hain’t,” “He has gone to the stable now to get the oars,” ‘Maybe he’s the coachman?” ** No; he is too large a man for the coach- man, whom you remember I saw.” “* Yes; but he seems ter know the grounds — and place.” . “That may be because he has studied them as I did.” “Then you say tackle him on his way back?” “se Yes.” at | ir wish I was dressed,” whined Pete, and Nick laughed. But his laughter was checked by a sound that came from the stable. It was a stifled cry, a groan and a blow, ‘“‘ There’s something going on wrong there, Pete.” i “Sure.” ‘* There comes our man,” As Nick spoke a man came out of the stable at a run. “He's got the oars,” said Pete, in a whis- per Wo ad The man came directly toward the spot where the two youths stood by the boat. He was running, while he carried the oars upon his shoulder, Suddenly Nick faced him, and just as he did so, the man had discovered him and shrunk back. : ‘““Curse you! don’t bar my way or I'll - = savagely uttered threat in suppressed tones, and throwing the oars upon the lawn, he drew a knife and sprung toward Nick Nor- cross, Pete Pepper uttered a cry of terror, and ran toward his friend, but Nick Norcross held in his hands the end of the oarhe had sawed off, and brought along as a roller, and with this he defended himself, for witha swing in the air he brought it down upon the head of his assailant. : He was not . moment too soon, for the man, with a iong-bladed, ugly knife up- raised, would have been upon him in a second more. and wielded by a hand so powerful, Nick Norcross would then’ and there have lost his life. . f: But. under the boy’s: blow the night ee fell his length upon the lawn, and y as motionless as though dead, ; > ‘ Tae: i) eae oe UR ta The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. ec ae a a ae ca i en ee NO a E 3 **Oh, Nick!” gasped Pete. ‘‘Come! we must get out of this!” **Tnto the boat, with the oars, Pete, while I untie the painter!” Nick’s courage arose with the situation, and he spoke with the utmost calmness, while he hastily sprung to the tree, untied the rope the man had made fast there a few minutes before, and sprung into the boat by the side of his comrade. whe had the oars in the rowlocks, : ‘‘No; we must paddle out, Pete, for the house has not been alarmed, and the sound of oars would be heard,” and Nick Norcross stood in the stern and used his oar for a scull, sending the boat slowly out from the shore. CHAPTER VII. THE DEATH SECRET. . THE two youths soon had the Tittle boat in tow of their own craft, and were pulling with strong stroke back along the shore, keeping well out. he roar of the city came to their ears, for Chicago never wholly goes to sleep even after midnight, and the long lines of lights guided them on their way. Both were silent, for they were busy with their own thoughts and were too hard at work to enter into conversation. At last they got down opposite the busiest part of the city and passed vessels going in and out, one or two of them steamers, others sailing-craft. They were fearful of being hailed and caught by the pclice, having a boat in tow as eg Bee for it was natural that they might be suspected of having stolen it. ut they gave the crafts they met as wide a berth as possible and held on up along the shore for the rendezvous with their com- rades near the old rookery where they were: to put the stolen boat in hiding. t last Nick turned and glanced shore- ward, and he spoke for the first time since leaving the house of the millionaire. “* Pete!” He started as he heard how husky his voice had grown, and there was a choking sensation in his throat. _ After an effort Pete replied, for he, too, felt the same way, his throat and lips being dry, his voice hoarse. “* Yes, Nick.” “We'll run in now, and we must tell the v8.” “Why tell em, Nick?” “We must act ie with them, Pete, as we are Ree to do,” ¢* Well?” “*If we did not they would know of the affair to-morrow, Pete, and be certain we did it, while they would feel that we had not trusted them.” , “Nick.” ** Yea,” > pte “Do you think he 7s dead?” whispered. Pete. “Yes.” ** What makes ven think so?” ‘‘Torly intended to stun him, and yet, seeing my ay danger, I brought the oar SS upon his head with terrible foree, ete. ‘And you think the blow proved fatal?” ** Yes, though I hope not.” ‘*Why don't you think it stunned him?” * ge sh > RE Peel gs yall in ay ~ « 5 i ae
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-was held as before, *“You got the boat, pards?” said a voice eagerly as they reached the beach. ‘Yes, and all together get a grip and we'll carry it to a hiding-place,” answered Nick. The strong arms of the lads raised the boat from the water, and it was carried into the old building and stowed away in the garret, where it was hidden under a pile of straw, a dark lantern furnishing the light to guide them, i ‘*Now, pards, I want you to come to the beach, for I wish to speak to you before we part. ‘Some of uscan go back by our boat, and the others overland, but I have a secret to tell you.” They all felt from Nick’s manner that he had something of serious import to make known, and they followed him to the beach, just where their own boat was. **Fellows, you know when I originated our band, which some call the River Rats, and others the Red Ferrets, that we all swore to chip in our earnings to a common purse, help one another, obey all rules and stand by each member of the band no matter what happened,” A murmur in the affirmative ran through the group as Nick Norcoss paused for an in- stant, and then came the words: ‘* Now I went with Pete Pepper after the boat, we just took up to the loft, and I wish to tell you first what happened, ‘“We found there a man almost a giant in size, stealing the boat, and we watched him until he got it into the water, and he’s about the only man lever saw who could have done it without help. “Then he tied the boat toa tree on the lawn and went toward the stable. ‘“‘He wasn’t gone long, but we heard a cry for help, a blow, and the man came back with the oars, and Pete and I faced him.” ** Yes, and I tell you I was scared, for we didn’t hev our clothes on,” said Pete. ‘The man then sprung upon me with a knife, and I brought the half oar I had down upon his head.” A silence followed that was impressive and oppressive as well. ® “Then we keeps the secret, does we not, pals?” a voice asked. “We do,” came inearnest, yet suppressed tones. ‘* Fellows, I thank you! ‘« Now let us get away, but remember our next meeting,” and the meeting of the Red Ferrets was over for jhe night. ip CHAPTER VIIL A DOUBLE MYSTERY. Tue meeting of the young ‘‘ River Rats” under circumstances when they had to be on the alert to guard against arrest by the police, Though not actually fede ge in any crime the police dreaded the band, and suspected them of manyjof the evil deeds done aiong the rivat-banks and about the city. They had several of the band “ spotted,” and only needed the slighest excuse to run them in as offenders, ' Under such circumstances Nick urged upon his followers te be most careful and to do nothing that would bring. them 'in con- ‘act with the officers of the law. At this meeting the affair of the night be- fore was not referred to in any way, only she matter discussed of any clue being found as to who and what the unknown girl was who had been discovered dead in the boat that had drifted upon the grounds of Million- aire Marlborough. Nick looked pale and worried, but was calm and full of nerve, and when the meet- ing broke up’sought his rooms, where he threw himself upon his cot to rest, for he had slept none during the night... : His immediate chum, Pete Pepper, had gone out fora purpose. =. That purpose was to hang about the offices of the afternoon papers, which he knew would contain an account of the affair of the night before in which he had been an actor. It was shortly after noon when the news- boys begun to circulate through the city, calling out: ‘**Extra!l Extra! mitted up-town!” Pete was not long in securing a copy of each one of the afternoon papers, for he wished to read every account, and hastening to his quarters he/roused Nick from a deep sleep by entering the room. ** You've got the papers?” asked Nick, wide awake on the instant. ‘*Yes; here they is, and you read ’em, for yer knows its work for me ter do it,” Nick took the papers and the two went to the lower room to read them, After glancing at each one Nick selected the one he deemed the best account and in a low voice read as follows: ‘““A DOUBLE MURDER! ‘CAN “MILLIONAIRE MARLBOROUGH MAKES Double murder com- ILL-OMENED MAnsron! ANOTHER GHASTLY DISCOVERY! “A Mystery OF THE Nigut! ** After dawn this morning the butler in Marlborough mansion, not seeing the doors of the stable open, went out to awaken the coachman, supposing that he had overslept himself, “He found the door unlocked, and lying upon the stable floor covered with blood, was Herman Hendrickson the coachman, a knife- wound in his heart. ‘In horror the butler ran to the mansion to alarm Mr. Marlborough who was still sleeping, and the startling tidings of the murder flew like wildfire among the ser- vants engaged upon Mr. Marlborough’s prem- ises. “The millionaire was soon dressed and upon the scene of the tragedy, and a search revealed the fact that the coachman had re- tired, but aroused by a sound in the stable, he had gone thither to see what it meant, and met his death at the hands of an as- sassin. “A further search reveaied a false key in the stable door, and then the discovery was made by a servant that the boat upon the lawn, the same one in which the fair suicide, Estelle Enders, had been found, was one. “A further search revealed the fact that a dead body lay upon the*shore just at the water's edge. ‘It was the body of a man of large size, roughly dressed and with a face that was evil in the extreme. “The police recognized the man as a noted ex-convict and crook known as ‘ Giant Jack,’ and greatly feared by the officers of the law as a most desperate character. **He had been sentenced to prison for murder, but, his companions having a politi- cal pull, got him pardoned out, and it was supposed that he again entered upon a life of crime, though nothing on which he could be arrested could be traced to him. *“There was found upon his body a long- bladed knife, stained with blood, and his hands and clothing also bore stains, showing that he had killed the coachman. **But, the strangest part of it is howa man, with his skull crushed in as was that of Giant Jack, could have gone from the stable to where his body was found, as such a blow would naturally be considered in- een fatal. J ‘The boat being gone, and the oars taken from the stable, the theory of the police is that Giant Jack had confederates in crime, and they carried him to the beach, but be- The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. A TT SE a ON SRT AT OT YO er fi ahaa 5. coming alarmed from some cause, left the body and fled. ‘“A widespread search has begun for the stolen boat, and it is hoped that it may be - successful, but the fact that this particular boat was stolen, and murder committed to getit, revives the belief of many that it formed in some way a clue that might go to prove that Estelle Enders was not a suicide, but lost her life by violence.” CHAPTER, IX. A CALL FOR HELP. Tue Chief of the Secret Service Bureau in Chicago was seated in his private office look- ing over his morning mail, which was a large one. An open scrap- book, with newspaper clip- pings, lay upon a table by his side, and over this he would glance from time to time as he read his letters. A pile of ‘clippings ” from the morning papers also lay upon the table, awaiting to be pasted in the scrap-book. a The Secret Service chief was a handsome man, though his face wore a troubled look now, and his musing ha'f aloud showed that he was in a quandary, for he said: “Well, I confess I am at fault, and my very best men can give me no clue te work upon, and so I was forced to send for the young Ferret of the Golden Fetters, as he is called, and who calls himself Dick Doom. ‘“‘T confess myself beaten, and so have made a call for help. “Tf Dick Doom cannot aid me thenT know no one who can, ‘“Why, the fellow is an unsolved mystery himself, from what I have seen and known of him, and if there is any one who can tell me of him I do not know who it is. ‘** Well, his telegram said he would be in my Office this morning, so I will refuse my- self to all visitors and have a long talk with him.” Touching a bell an attendant in an adjoin- ing room answered it and said: “Tam expecting a visitor, Chains; his name is Richard Richardson, so admit him and no one else.”. ‘*¥es, chief, but there is some one here to see you now.” et} ““Who is he?” ; “An old guy, sir.” ** Just what do you mean by that, Chains?” “A man from Wayback, sir, an old Hay- seed.” ‘*T do not care to see him,” ‘He says he can tell you something you don’t know, and he seems very earnest about it, sir.’ ‘* Well, I am willing to learn, so will see old Hayseed, as Mr.” Richardson has not put in an appearance yet. ‘* Show the caller in, Chains.” . The attendant departed and soon after ushered into the chief’s private office a man. who did indeed have the look and smell! of the country about him.} He wore an old slouch hat, a long light overcoat of ancient cut, striped pants and carried in his hand an old-time carpet-sack, and an umbrella of enormous size, His face was ruddy and clean-shaven, save for a fringe of grayish whiskers running from ear to ear, while his yellow locks were Jong and soapy. ‘*Be you the gov’ner?” he asked as he ap- proached the chief who eyed him with an air of assumed interest, vi), ' “‘T am the Chief of the Chicago Secret Service, sir, but not the governor.” ‘All the same, stranger; but I’m right deown glad ter see yer, sot be,” and he shook hands heartily with the chief, depos- ited his carpetsack and umbrella upon the desk, right on top of the papers, and, draw- — ing up a chair, took a seat, while he extend- eda plug of tobacco with the query: _ ie ‘‘Have a chaw, gov’ner, forits realol@ nigger heel terbaccy.” ha yo Oe
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6 a ‘ to eee The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. ‘*No, thank you, sir; but, may I ask what | as Giant Jack, his skull crushed in, evident- your errand with me is?” ‘** Certain you kin, and J’ll answer on ther dead level.” “Well, what is it?” ‘To help yer out of a fix.” ** How do you mean?” ly by a blow from a heavy cane. ‘ it was in getting the oars from the stable that Giant George had aroused the coach- man, driven his knife to his heart and, af- ter receiving a fatal blow, it is remarkable ‘“‘T mean, stranger, that yer is ag’in’ ther | to relate, he ran to the water’s edge and wall and I knows a thing or two,” and the man winked knowingly. ‘*Well, I do not exactly catch your mean- ing, my friend?” ** Yer’ll know when J axes yerif yer has found the man as murdered thet pretty En- ders gal, yit?” In spite of his nerve the chief started, but said calmly: ‘“That was a suicide, not a murder.” ‘Nothing of ther kind; it were a clean case 0’ murder,” “What do you know about it?” ‘Nothin’! but I has come ter find out.” ‘‘ For what reason?” ‘*Yer gave a call on me fer help and here Tis, chief, at yer sarvice from Wayback!” ‘* Dick Doom as I wee!” cried the chief, grasping the hand of his strange visitor, ° CHAPTER X. THE CASE IN HAND. ‘* Wr, Dick Doom, Iam more than de- lighted to see you, and I frankly admit you took me in completely, for Iimagined I could smell the scent of new mown hay about you,” said the chief, after warmly shaking hands with the pretended old farmer, “Then my disguise is a good one, you think?” ‘The very best; but then,you are an ex- ‘pert in masquerading, as I have had reason to know. ‘Thad just told my man, Chains, that I would see no one as I was expecting a visitor by the name of Richard Richardson, but as he said there was an old guy from Wayback outside I concluded to see you.” *‘Tam glad you did, sir; but I wired you I would be here this morning.” ‘€Ves, L received your dispatch, and I was ane you could come, for this case baffles us a hii _“* Tt is a case of a triple murder, I believe, gir.’ ; / ‘‘{ do not know just how to catalogue it, but you shall know the facts. / ‘A millionaire resident of our city, who has handsome grounds about his house, which is on the lake-shore in a fashionable suburb of Chicago, found on his shore one -. morning a pleasure row-boat with the dead body of a girl in it,” ‘Beautiful of course.” “She really was, and was refined, rich) dressed, wore costly’ jewelry—I have all locked up here—and a purse containing con- siderable money.” “Then robbery was not the cause of her murder?” “Tt was a case of suicide, Dick, for she had a slip of paper in her hand, saying as much, and a bottle of chloroform was in the boat, and her handkerchief had been - soaked with the drug.” Dick Doom rapidly made notes of what the chief said and then asked: _* When was this?” / ) The date was given, and after answering other questions about the young girl, the | chief went on to say: “Now I had a set-back to the suicide | -** Cont | **Is I ter gi theory when word came that the boat, in which the body had been found, and which | upon the lawn at Mr. Marl- } _ borough’s home, had been stolen one night _ and two murders committed. nas was drawn fell.” ‘*He had a confederate, of course.” ‘Certainly, for the boat and‘ oars were gone,” ** Where are they ?” “It has been utterly impossible to find any clue to the boat.” “Your men have worked well, chief?” “* Most thoroughly.” } “‘ And you think that the boat was stolen for some other reason than its value?” “«That is how it looks to me.” **Can you get no clue?” *‘ Well, the servants at the Marlborough Mansion report that the day before the murder of the coachman a youth, one of the young toughs of the town, came up and had a talk with him, ‘He was there for quite a while, and the coachmam showed him the boat and about the premises.” “Have your men looked for this young tough?” © a ‘* Yes, but in vain.” “« He must be found, chief!” “Of course, for he was doubtless the confederate of the ex-convict and crook, Giant George.” ‘Did the people of the place see enough of him to recognize him if they saw him again?” ‘*Yes, one of the’ servant girls said she would know him Anywhere, and the millionaire’s valet had a talk with him and would recognize him he issure.” “T suppose I can see the premises by going there?” “Oh, yes; I will give you an order to do so, for Mr. and its, Marlborough have closed up the mansion, leaving it in care of the servants, and have gone East for a stay of some montlis,” » ‘Well, chief, I will have a look at the place, and then set my traps.” “So you will take my case, for your telegram did not say so?” ‘f “‘T will take the case, chief.” “1 believe you never take a case except you see that you can win it, Dick Doom?” “T take a case to win, chief,” was the calm and confident response. “Well, Dick, I place a‘l in your hands, and for any aid you need, call upon me, for I am confident now of the result. “‘ Where can you be found?” gistered Richard Richardson, under my present disguise. ; _ May I ask to look over the papers in this matter?” * ~“Thave this scrap-book and all ready for eae: so will send them round to your hotel.” } «Tl take them,” was the quiet response |- and into the carpet-bag they went, and Dick Doom took his departure, looking just what he répresented himself to be, an Indiana farmer, eiAY pede al ial ee eet - A : : <, Hoee eee * CHAPTER XI. _ A PIGEON TO PLUCK, *«Cunny, I has game afoot.” t a shot, Buck?” Peak ak _ “Tn course you is, for hain’t we pards?” . The speakers were two very hard-featured _ “The coachman of the place owas found | ‘‘ Leg-Pullers,” or in other words, toughs, _ dead in his stable, in his night clothes, just. 3 he got out ot ‘bed in ovicien , ef t wlarm, and there was a knife wound in his heart. : They were seated upon the lake-shore smoking their pipes, and kept a watchful look about them as though they did not wish “Tam atthe Leland Hotel, sir, and re- | searching for. “53 { |. It was the detective, Dick Doom, still_in. }his disguise of Richard Richardson, of In- men, roughly dressed and. pie belonging _ | to that class ef society in Chicago known as One was bearded and with unkempt hair, while the other wore a mustache only and “The boat was gone from the lawn, and | made more pretensions to dress, but both had the faces of men hardened by crime. *“ What's yer game, pal?” asked one of the: other, speaking in a low tone, after a hasty glance about him. : ‘“Thar’s a hayseed in town what must hev hit a prize in ther lottery, or got a inheri- tance.” ae Why ig ** Well, Cully, he jest rolls around among: ther Dime Museums, takes in the theaters, goes to the races and spends his money free, and he’s got lots 0’ boodle.” ‘« Yer has seen it?” <T Bas,.” ‘¢ Whar is he?” ‘* At ther Leland, and we’ve got ter touch him for his pile.” . “T’m thar.” ‘But, I tell yer he looks likeatrim one as could fight, so we must git him cornered, and if he squeals we'll knife him, or break his head bone in.” ‘All right, but when?” ‘*To-night, for he comes down along the wharfs every night to look at ther sights, and we can steer him up some lonesome street and do him.” ‘*¥You bet we kin.” ‘*We'll be satisfied with his boodle and jewelry, for the old bloke is well fixed with a. ticker and chain; butif he sets upa howl then his life pans out.” A ‘‘ Sure, we must not let him roar on us.” “*You bet we mustn't.” ‘Tg yer sart'in he has plenty o’ ther rags?” *‘T counted ata glance some hundreds 0” money in rou, Cully.” “«'Then its worth ther killin’ and risk.” at! he ‘When shall we give him a deal?” ““To-nicht, for ll rig up as a lake capt’in, go to the Lelands, git in with the old bloke and take him a walk to-night.” oe Good!’ e : - ‘ i “Tl steer him down this way, and’ yow shadder us, soas to be on hand, when I gits my arm under his chin, to rob him, “T'll go now and spruce up a bit, and. when I are eatin’ a good dinner at Leland’s, as Cap'n Job Johnson, of the schooner Buf- fale Pill, you bet I'll think o’ you tacklin’ ork and beans in a hash-house down here.” “* Now don’t rub it in, pal, ’cause you kin £0 on yer shape whar I dasn’t,” growled the other. Soon after they parted, and the one who was to play the lake captain of the Buffalo Bill, went to his quarters, glancing search- ingly about before he entered the rookery, like one who was a pS man, 4") /" Half an hour after he came out, wearing a blue pea-jacket and sailor pants, and a sea- Fie went at a rapid pace to the more re- spectable part of the city, where the Leland Hotel was situated, and entering the office, registered as: ; “CAPTAIN JOB JOHNSON, ‘Lake Scnoonrr BurraLo Brun.” Having paid for his supper he walked. a about the rotunda, until at last his eyes fell upon one whom diana, a Going up to the detective the pretended captain of the schooner Buffalo Bill, at once) became sociable, and the supposed farmer humoring his evident desire to get acquaint- | ed, the two goon entered into conversation that appeared to please both ofthem. —_ After an “hour's talk together they ad- journed to the bar, where they had a drink he had evidently been — together, and thn’ statted for ‘the dining. =| _ “Out upon the grounds by the water lay | to have any one come near enough to catch | _ $room. is a the dead body of a notorious crook known | what they were saying. “J va) ‘ j thy: Wels 1 I 5 wat Bi
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The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. hy ———__ ee The pretended farmer explained that he ‘was not up to eating a six-o’clock dinner, so waited for seven o'clock suppery he always referring to dine at noon, and this chimed in with the ‘‘captain’s” views, exactly, he said, After supper the ‘‘ captain” proposed to look in at the theaters and see the sights, and his companion, whom he called *‘ judge,” at once acquiesced, and they started on a round of pleasure, Two such characters together would have been noticeable in any other place than Chi- cago, but in that city of many freaks no one appeared to notice them. And yet there was one who was noticing them, and who had shadowed them from the moment they left the hotel together. That one was the pal of the ‘‘ captain,” stant, After leaving the theater the skipper of the Buffalo Bill proposed a walk through the town, and he led the way into one of the most dangerous streets of the city for a stranger to enter, But the intended victim showed no relue- | tance to go, and did not appear. to see the | shadower upon their tracks. / CHAPTER XII. THE RESCUER. Ir the detective suspected his new-found companion he did not show the slightest sign of doing so. He went along like one who was in town to see all there was going on, and didn’t care for the expense, The hour was growing late and there were few persons abroad, for the night was not | a pleasant one, a chilly breeze coming off of the lake and bringing with it an unpleasant mist, The two were loitering along, talking | earnestly together, when a quick step was | heard behind them, and a rough-looking man passed, It was the pal of the pretended lake cap- tain. , The latter saw that the shadower had , given him a hint to aet, for no one was in sight, and he at once decided to go on. alling back a pace behind the detective he suddenly dealt him a severe blow upon the temple and at the same time time threw his right arm around his neck, clamping it with irresistible force. At the same instant his pal came running | back to his aid, — For once, Dick Doom, the famous detec- | tive, had been caught off his guard, and he was certainly in dangerous hands. The blow on his temple had dazed him, for a moment ipo biiee him of strength or the power to act, and he was wholly at the | mercy of his foes, when suddenly, out of | the shadow of a door leading into the shop of a machinist, sprung a slender form, there ! was a heavy blow that rons out ominously, and the man that held Dick Doom in the eae fell to the pavement like one sudden- y struck lifeless, pockets of the detective, also got a blow across the! hand that caused him todropa long-bladed knife he carried, and in an in- stant the. lithe form that had so suddenly | appeared, leaped into the air, and a vigorous | kick sent the fellow to the ground, while the } rescuer was on him quick as a flash. This had been but a moment's work, but in that time Dick Doom had regained his | dazed senses, and the man who had just : | and he never lost sight of them for an in- | | Oners, | Some years, cully.” ; aid!” cried Dick Doom, utterl amazed at The other, who had begun to rifle the | ‘*Hold your hands together!” was the ‘*Back! I will stand no nonsense!” came stern response. ‘in the stern tones of the detective. The order was obeyed, and he, too, was ‘Yer don’t skeer us wu'th a cent, shadow quickly handcuffed, and then the two were man, for we isin our own grazing ground, tied together. -and all folks here will lend a helping hand ‘**Better get out of this neighborhood, and don’t you forget it, see?” Country, for there’ll be plenty to rescue ‘You will simply meet your death if you them.” dare make any attempt at rescuing these The speaker was the rescuer, and the de- | cut-throats,” was the response of Dick ! tective turned toward him and said: oom. **Good advice, which I will follow. ‘© Who'll kill us?” ‘* Will you come with me?” “Ewell!” ‘*1 don’t mind, for awhile. ‘‘T guess you are not just what you seem?” | The men held a short conversation to- ‘*Not altogether, my brave lad, but I was gether and then decided upon their course. fairly caught in a trap by these fellows, |. This was to make a rush all together upon though I was looking for it, and I owe you the daring detective at bay, and thus rescue my life.” | their companions, whom they had recogniz- ‘Not so bad as that, sir,’ | ed, at the same time killing their keeper and ‘*Yes; they meant to kill me, for I would , then all scattering to escape the police who have resisted, and there lies that fellow’s . would doubtless come to the scene in force. weapon. | Having decided what they would do, they ‘*Come; we will move on with your pris- wee to make the attack a surprise, so one z asked: % See here, Hayseed, does yer give up our pals?’ ce ” Hardly had the words left the lips of Dick ‘*Tt hain’t in yer.” “Try me.” ‘The two toughs were made to rise, and, fastened together by having a third pair of small steel handcuffs slipped on them as they stood side by side, they were told to march, | Doom when the gang, now increased to seven ‘‘If we meet any one and you give an in number, made a sudden rush to rescue the alarm, it will be the worse for you,” warned — the prisoners. the detective sternly, who, with his rescuer, | There wasa flash and sharp report from walked behind the prisoners, a revolverin Dick Doom’s hand, and the ‘* Who is you, any way?” leader and spokesman went down in his ‘‘Never mind who I am.” tracks. “I does believe I has been tuk in by a But, the others having been checked only officer,” an instant by the fall of their leader, pushed ‘Perhaps you have,” on and it looked very black for Dick Doom, ‘*Say, pal, this be awful, hain't it?” | as his prisoners now were joining in the ‘Tis afeerd it means board in Joliet for struggle. But, just as all looked desperate for the “'That’s what it docs; but, see thar!” detective there arose n cheer from a dozen Several men were seen to come out of a throats, and upon the scene coming out of the low drinking-place together, and before a darkness like phantoms, rushed a band led warning could be given the prisoners, by the by the one who had a short while hefore res- | detective, they both gave a peculiar cry, _ cued Dick Doom! i very like a signal. The assuilants of the detective at once broke In ‘an instant it was answered and the away in flight, though all of them were not men came at a run toward the detective and so fortunate as to “eee for several were his prisoners, ; captured by those who had so timely come ‘ to the rescue of Dick Doom the detective. y But, hardly had the assailants fled when CHAPTER XIII. flak, was gir a a the ape het igfance away. Instantly leaving their pris- A CHOSE GAS. | oners, all ‘tae ofthe Galaukod made a dash Tue moment Dick Doom heard the signal to escape from the scene! _ and saw the response, he felt that there was! That one who remained was the one who trouble ahead, and at once shoved his two had just rescued Dick Doom, and he held his prisoners into the entrance way of a closed revolver covering the three men he and his shop, while he sprung in front of them with party had captured, although they looked as the remark; | though they intended to make a break for “Come, my gallant rescuer, we'll stand liberty before the officers comipg at a double- them off.” quick, should arrive. i But, to his surprise his rescuer suddenly | A word from Dick Doom checked them, dashed away, as though to flee from this for he said sternly: new danger, and disappeared in the dark- ‘‘Take warning from the dead man at my ness, feet and do not throw yourlivesaway.” MASTER OF THE SITUATION. “Coward! Call the police at least to my | ; Ke | Tue warning given by Dick Doom had But, thrown upon his own resources he the effect of causing the prisoners to show acted promptly and said: ‘ no other effort to escape, and they seemed to “See here; men, those fellows intend {o feel that the run who uttered the threat was attempt your rescue, but if you aid them in more than he outwardly appeared to be, any way I shall kill you, so move at the, At the feet of the detective lay the body peril of your life.” ' of the man he had shot, and behind him were The gang had now come up ona run, and his two prisoners with their hands in irons, they were drunk the detective saw at a+ In front were the other three prisoners glance. | taken and the rescuer was guarding them, _ There were five of them,.and they halted all forminga striking picture in the darkness, | . | : want ‘ f the act of one whom he had a few moments CHAPTER XIV. before regarded as a hero and owed his life to. ten feet off, while one of them called out: . illumined only by a gas lamp some distance fallen was quickly handcuffed, and the sec- “Who sounded the help call of the te nat I tty taal ‘: ond one brought to terms in & second by | crooks?” hepa |. The detective having gotten the master ne finding a revolver-muzzle thrust in his face} ‘‘ We did, pals, and we need aid, for this hand of the prisoners turned to his'rescue ae q ¥ ‘ i as he was struggling with the rescuer of the ' is a detective in the rig of a hayseed, and he’s and said: PED Tae h Bea ine Lae | 1R>* detective. got the nippers onter us ” ) “T must beg your pardon, my young r Bet ; i so let friend, for thinking you had deserted me, — _ | when you went for aid which you quickly — : a armel aoa _“T caves, cully, so don’t shoot,” growled | ‘Come, . cully, ” gy ne, that won’t do, shadow man, ae ‘the man, letting his arms drop to sp side, ‘’em go.” seat tA te . ra Pes. aa i ht RMR ea aN. ee eel ath att Wi te Mae
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got, and I again owe my life to you as these men had me at their mercy, ** We will talk together later, for here are the police.” Just then up came a sergeant and four police officers. They had their clubs in their hands and were ready for business. ‘*Ho, sergeant! here are some prisoners for you,” Dick Doom called out. “It’s a lie, sergeant, for he and his gang set on us to rob us, and they kilt one of our <7 keg + The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. CHAPTER XV. PARDS, Having learned the name of his brave young rescuer, after hearing what the police sergeant had said of him and his gang, Dick Doom said: . ‘**T would like to have a talk with you, my young friend, so will you come with me to | my hotel?” ick wasina quandary. He had discover- —<—<—<—<—<—<<—<—<—<—_— LT \' done under circumstances beyond your con- trol.” ‘ ‘Thank you, sir, for that opinion,” ‘*T dv wish to serve you, and if you are goirg wrong, to keep you out of mischief pards, and now he is makinga grand bluff} ed that the old ‘‘ Hayseed” was not just ; not take a dollar of your money in payment ter run us in,” said one of the men who were under the muzzle of the revolver in the young rescuer’s hand, ‘Vl run ther hull of yer in, I will,” said the sergeant, with a strong Irish brogue, and he added, as he grabbed roughly hold of the rescuer’s arm, instead of the prisoners: ‘*Put up that wepin, yer young divil of gin, or I'll brain yez.” *‘ Silence, sir, and let that young man alone! ‘** Here! look and see who is in authority now!” and Dick Doom stepped up to the sergeant and threw open his coat, so that the per Tight fell upon his breast where his udges of office were, and met the eyes of the policemen alone. “<I begs yer pardon, sur, but I c’u’dn’t tell ‘who was ter blame, could I? Now, sur, yer orders and they’ll be obeyed.” “Then take those two men in irons, with these other three, to the prison, and send the atrol wagon for the body of this man whom t was forced to kill. ‘Say to the chief that I will see him in the morning. He will know who I am when he secs the handcuffs on this prisoner,” and Dick Doom spoke in a whisper to the ser- geant, who said: ‘**T guess I knows, sur, who you is afther being this minit, and I’ll do as yer tells me, sur. ” * “See that you do.” ‘* Now my friend, come with me,” and he turned to his rescuer. ‘One minit capt’in, av yez pl’aze,” said the sergeant. “Well?” “Can I have a wurrud with yez, sur?” ‘* Certainly, sergeant.” ** It’s this, sur,” whispered the sergeant: *““T knows thet young spalpeen, sur, so kape yer eyes onter him, sur.” v ** Who is he?” 2 : ‘*Well, sur, we have niver been afther catchin’ him exactly, but he is ther leader of ia a gang of young toughs that are the divil’s own hatchin’, so they are,” «“ Well, he did me good service and I wish « know more of him; but I thank you for our warning, sergeant, and say to the chief 4 at Detective Richard Richardson will call hie at ten in the morning, and sends the five prisoners and the dead body in.” \ “TIL tell him that same, sur, and good . luck to yez.” pat Dick Doom hastened on after his rescuer be who had seemed anxious to get away as he ‘was moving off in the darkness. ~ ' But he halted when he saw the detective | | , hastening after him and they met just under ies, a lamp-post, where each could see the other are leone nS bs bY ** Well, my young friend, I wish to again thank you for your services in my behalf, and to ask pardon for the thought that you” had deserted me,” and Dick Dota looked fixedly into the face of his rescuer., —~ He saw a youth of perhaps eighteen, with - @ fearless, handsome face, fine form fairly well clothed, anda look of one who ; given him by the police sergeant. “Tonly did what I thought was right, sir,” modestly said the rescuer. ““May I ask your name, for I am deter- mined that we shall be friends,” 7 “* My name is Nick Norcross, sir,” was the answer. . «Sa 4 URS eaey ht ion! eer Y Gia ese”. gp, & been well reared in spite of the bad character | what his outward appearance indicated. He was one with authority, as had been evidenced by his control over the police squad that had arrived, and he must be one in high place to be allowed to depart, after his own confession that’ he had killed the man whom the officers found dead there. He had also stood sponsor for him, and now wished him to accompany him to ‘his hotel. ‘*Heis some big Secret Service man in disguise,” flashed through Nick’s mind. There were reasons for his not wishing the stranger, whoever he might be, to know more of him, and he wished to get out of going to the hotel if he could do so. So he said. ‘*T guess I'll have to look up my fellows, sir, who fled when the police came.” ‘Then you have a band of lads with ou?” ‘* Well, sir, yes,”’ j ‘‘And why should they run from the police?” ‘It’s just this, sir, that the police are after us all the time, and we do not wish to be run in unless they can prove that we have been guilty of some crime.” ‘‘T wish you to go to my hotel with me,” said Dick Doom, decidedly, after Nick’s last remark, and the youth answered: ** All right, sir; I'll go.” They walked off together, Nick urging that they should hasten out of that locality, as it was the worst in Chicago. Entering the hotel Dick Doom led the wa up to his room, and entering it, the yout saw that the pretended countryman had a parlor and bedroom, handsomely furnished. He took the easy-chair to which Dick Doom motioned him, and the latter sat where he could gaze straight into his face, illumined by the gaslight which fell upon him. **T brought you here to have a talk with you, and the first thing I shall tell you is: that I am a detective.” There was an emphasis upon the last words uttered, and Dick Doom seemed to have a purpose in the way he said them, while his eyes were riveted upon the face of the youth. But there was no start, no change of ex- pression, and the answer came, calmly: ‘Yes, sir, 1 knew you were a Secret Ser- vice officer the moment the police sergeant obeyed you as he did.” ‘* What did you think I was before then?” *‘An unfortunate countryman who had fallen into bad hands.” “‘The sergeant gave you a bad char- acter,” ‘* Yes, sir, the police do not like us,” _ “ Who do you include with you?” ““ My fellows.” | ‘* You have a band, then?” «"Yea,rstr,” ‘* May I ask for what purpose?” Nick was silent, and the detective said: ‘See here, my young friend, I owe you my life, and twice you came to my rescue. I was caught in a trap, and I would have been killed but for you. “This debt of gratitude alone, which I can never repay wholly, would keep me | from doing you a harm, betraying your con- fidence placed in me. ‘‘T read human nature pretty well, and T'll tell you frankly I do not believe you to be wicked at heart, whatever you may have and trouble. De ‘*T wish to set you up in some business that will pay you, in return for what you have done for me, and I desire that you speak frankly to me.” ‘**T will, sir, and I’ll say now that I would for what I did.” y ** But you are poor.” ’ ; “IT am not rich, sir, but do not want for | anything, for Ihave a little money saved up. | “Then we pool our earnings, and it be- ; longs to all of us.” _ ‘You mean you and your fellows?” i yey Ses, sir.” ; ‘* How do they earn money ?” mi «Selling papers, sir, as messengers, boot- Ys 14 blacks, and in other ways.” 7 / ‘‘Well, Nick, I will not press you as to your past, and what you are engaged in; but 1“ I wish to say that I need the aid of just such & one as you are in some work I| have on hand, and I'll pay you well for your services, and it will lead to something better for me,” “Thank you, sir.” “You will engage with me in this?” +t Yes sir. ‘‘ Well, come here to-morrow afternoon at three, and dress yourself as a country boy, and I'll be ready for you.” ‘* Yes, sir.” «* And we will be friends.” iq ‘“*Yes, sir, I like you, and we will be pards.” was Nick’s response, as he grasped the detective’s hand in leaving. He had not been gone an instant, When, seizing a heavy cloak and high hat, and put- } | | ting -aa false beard, Dick Doom was on his track, thoroughly changed in appearance! _CHAPTER XVI. THE RIVER RAT’S RECORD. Dick Doom shadowed Nick Noreross from the hotel door, crossing the street and keep- ing him in view, + He saw that he took a direction that would not lead him to the scene where he had so nearly lost his life, and he was deter- mined to discover just where he went. The youth did not appear to know that he was being shadowed, and went leisurely along like one perfectly acquainted with the city, and as though with a direct purpose in Ps view. He went directly to his own quarters, in the obscure locality, which was a very se- cluded and quiet. one, and Dick Doom saw him disappear in the hall-door, which he noticed that he opened with a awh The detective waited for a few minutes and then went to the door and made a record of the number. ; He took in the situation of the house and ° the locality in general and at the corner saw Ae the name of the street, or rather alley, and | then walked rapidly back to the hotel. 4 The next morning at the appointed time he was at the office of the chief of the Secret Service. Ae es The latter had arrived at his office at, nine. He had been told of the capture of five crooks and the killing of one, and so was anxiously awaiting the coming of Dick Doom, - The detective, for his own reasons, still UI kept to his disguise of an Indiana farmer, i and when he sent in his name as Richard Richardson he was quickly admitted. y “Well, Dick, you have been at work, I see, for you have both killed your game and bagged it.” “Tam sorry I was forced to kill a man, chief, but I believe you know me we enough to feel that I take life only when
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— 9 > ™* The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. @g9 driven to do so, and I never make a grave if it can be avoided,” and Dick Doom spoke very seriously. “*T well know that, Dick, and I am not blaming you; but what were you about last night?” **T’ll tell you in a few words chief.” ‘© Do; 80. ‘‘A pretended lake captain stopped for dinner at the Leland, and sought my ac quaintance, ‘* He proposed to show me the city by gas- light, and confident that he had a motive other than kindness, 1 went with him. ‘‘He led me into one of the worst streets in your windy city, and though on my guard, I was entrapped and would have been killed but for the courage of a youth who rescued me.” ‘“ Yes, reported as the leader of the River Rats,” remarked the chief, turning to the paper on his desk. **A youth who is not as bad, I believe, as tke police paint him, chief.” ‘Tt isin his favor that he helped you,” ‘“He saved my life, and when I was at- tacked by a gang who sought to rescue my prisoners he took to his heels, but only for a purpose,” “To get out of harm’s way, eh?” “Oh, no, for he returned as though by magic and brought with him a band of youths who put my assailants to flight, after I had killed one, and captured three of them for me ” ‘«They are improving, are the River Rats.” ““They skipped when they saw the police, all but their leader, and he went with me to my hotel, and refused my offer of pay for what he had done, while he is willing to help me if I need him.’’ ‘He is a young devil, Dick, and as a crook knows it all, if you can use him; but 1 doubt it.” “ What do you know of him, chief?” The chief turned toa book near and read: “** Nick Noreross, a youth, about 5 feet eight inches in height, weight about 160, black hair and eyes, stands like a so'dier, handsome face and lives near river, just where, no one can find out, *** Ts leader of the band known to~police as River Hats, and composed of youths from twelve to seven- S Guilty of misdemeanors, and suspected of many crimes of a petty nature, perhaps of a serious kind. ‘“‘That is the record of the River Rats, Dick.” ‘Tt is not an enviable one, chief; but, why dc not the police get some clue against them?” ‘* How can they?” **T will do so, and if you will only order your men not to watch those River Rats too closely 1 will find out just who they are and what they do.” ‘*T wish that you would do so, and what you tell of their captain encourages me to believe there is good stuff in him.” “‘T am sure of it, sir, and I will promise to show you just what he is before long.” | “Then you intend to shadow him?” “T shall know all about Nick Norcross soon, chief.” ; “Good! But now, to this killing.” “It must be set down to an officer killing in discharge of his duty, chief, and you must sustain me in this,” “Of course I will, and go will take your full report and shield you as to your real identity. mitt ** Now what have you done in this Marl- borough case?” a ‘Next to nothing, sir, though I am work- ing on it,” was Dick Doom’s answer, and then he accompanied the chief before the pro- per authorities to report the affair of the night before, and make his charges against the prisoners, . This occupied several hours after which Dick Doom returned to his hotel to keep his engagement with Nick Norcrgss at three Oc. ock, / a i CHAPTER XVII. THE DETECTIVE’S SUSPICION. Dick Doom found his young rescuer prompt, for he was on hand sharp at three, and was ushered into the detective rooms. **T wish you to go with me, Norcross, this afternoon, and thus get an idea of what I desire your aid in.” *“Yes, Mr. Richardson; but I hope you had no trouble at Police Headquarters, this morning?” ‘** No; I made my report of the affair last night and it was accepted, and I spoke favor- ably of you, of course.” ‘* They do not know me I think by name, sir.” i ‘“Yes they do, Norcross, and they give you a very unsavory record.” “‘T have no doubt of that, sir; but I re- member hearing an old saying that the Devil was not so’ black as he is painted, and it might apply in my case.” ‘*] hope it will, and in fact so believe; but I congratulate you wae your appearance, for you sre an out and oul greenhorn.” “Thank you, sir,” and Nick laughed as he caught sight of himself in the full length mirror and saw how thoroughly he was im- personating the green country boy. He had bought a suit of clothes, a new hat, and wore a wig, and did indeed look like a greenhorn, for his expression greatly aided his appearance as such, The two then left the hotel together and when at last the home of the Marlboroughs came in sight and Nick saw that it was the destination of the detective he came toa sud- den halt and asked: ‘Do you intend going there, sir?” *“ Where?” ‘To millionaire Marlborough’s home?” ** Yes, ‘*Do you know the place?” “* Yes, sir,” ** Well, come along.” “Do you wish me to go there with you?” ‘Yes, of course.” Nick sighed, glanced about him and then walked on in silence. His manner and words had been quickly noticed by the detective, but nothing was said then, and the two soon entered the grounds, The servants only were there and they quickly gathered about the two visitors. When Dick Doom had before visited the ‘millionaire’s home it had been in a different disguise from the one he then wore, so he was not recognized by the servants as one they had seen before, Jalling the butler one side he played the countryman upon him and said, as he slipped a bank-note into his hand: ‘‘Me and my boy has been readin’ up about ther going on here, and wanted ter look around enough ter pay fer it, so we can say we has seen ther place when we goes back to Injiany,” Urged by a two-dollar bill the butler was willing to tell all he knew, and to show the supposed countrymen around the premises, into the stable and everywhere that Dick Doom expressed a desire to go, for another two dollars were forthcoming to ‘‘ buy something for the gals,” as the detective ex- pressed it, and this got the cook and servant girls to talking also, as well as one of the men-servants who was with them and poked fun at the visitors to show how smart he was ‘When the detective and his companions had left the place Dick Doom said: “We will return at once to the hotel.” Back to the hotel he went with Nick, and when they were in the detective’s rooms the latter said: ‘You have read about the tragedies at the Marlborough Mansion of course, Nick?” “ec Yes, sir, ” 4 ‘‘ Well, as you know that I am a detec- tive, I wish to tell you that I need youy Ve / services, and shall engage you at a good salary in my work.” . ‘Thank you, sir.” ** What I wish you to do is to keep your eyes upon the Marlborough Mansion, re- perting to me all who go there and what the se vants do.” Yes. sein. ~ ‘You must give me an address where I can find you, if I need you at any time, and report to me every evening.” ‘IT will, sir, and my address I will write down for you,” and Nick wrote the address on a card and handed it to the detective, who jor no comment whatever while the youth said: ‘‘Thope you are going to find out the truth, sir, about the death of that poor young lady who was murdered in the boat?’* “I thought that she committed suicide, Nick?” ‘Yes, sir, it was so stated.” ‘Have you any reason for believing that she did not take her own life?” The keen eyes of the detective were upon the face of the youth with a gaze that seemed to read him through and through, and Nick colored and seemed confused; but after a moment he said: ‘No, sir; the papers ought to know, and I only thought that one so beautjful and good would not wish to take her own life.” “Well, Nick, the real cause of suicide with many, no one can guess, or ever know, and a beautiful and rich woman may lose her charm in life as well as an ugly one, and one who is poor. » ‘Tam anxious to learn all I can about the case, for somehow, with you, I do not be- lieve that Miss Enders took her own life; but, now I'll say good-night, and to-morrow, at six, come here again, and dress as you al- ways do, for I do not care to have you dis- guised then,” and as Nick departed, the de- tective muttered to himself; ‘“‘He knew that girl, and knows some- thing about her death, 1 am sure!” CHAPTER XVIII. DETECTIVE DOHERTY, THe next morning found Dick Doom, still disguised ‘as a countryman, early at the quarters of the Secret Service chief. ‘* Well, Dick, what news have you this morning?” asked the chief as he entered. ** Next to nothing, sir,” ‘“‘T suppose you have seen the fuss the papers are rep m) over the late murders at the Marlborou,..a Mansion, and that we will not make known the facts that a detective ohioas had to killa man two nights ago?” ‘Oh, yes, sir, I read the papers every day most religiously; but I want one of’ your best men to aid me.” *« You shall have one.” \ ‘IT wish a man who is quick to act, has nerve and is brainy.” ‘*T have your man.” “Young or old?” ‘ ‘He is a young man, and he is one who has rendered most valuable services to ” me, ‘* Where is he, chief?” ‘*T will send for him.” Tn a few minutes a young man of medium size entered, with an intelligent, handsome face and a quick, nervous manner about him. ‘ ‘Mr. Richardson, this is the detective offi- cer 1 spoke of, Mr, John H. Doherty, and a man you can rely upon.” At the chief's flattering introduction of him John Doherty blushed like a ‘school- girl while Dick Doom shook his hand and said: . ‘Mr. Doherty, here is an address I wish you to go to, Secretly remember, and find out if the party is there, ‘If away, go to the neighborhood of the | Marlborough Mansion and see if you can
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_ to see him. Seri Pel De iad At ASS He also expected Nick Norcross, and was anxious to have him come while the otherg | were there, . Y a) 10 Leencthahtthdanieumientnicetenmnamee aaa eee + dao mes <tr 2 =— The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. —_— find any one answering to this description lounging about the place.” ‘* Yes, sir,” and Doherty took the card of description handed to him. ‘While at the Marlborough Mansion say to the butler, the servant girl Lucy and the man-servant Paul, that they are to come to the Leland Hotel at six o’clock sharp this evening and ask to see Mr, Richard Richard- son,” tO Viess alte “You see that they come, for you are also to be there.” ‘*T’ll not fail you, sir,” and the detective, seeing that there were no more orders for him to receive, took his departure. ** Chief?” “Yes, Dick.” “The address . gave him was where vyyoung Nick Norcross, the leader of the River Rats lives, and whose house your men could not find.” “No? How did you get it?’ “‘T shadowed him there, sir, and I gave him some work to do to-day, and I wish to know if he does it, so placed Detective Doherty to shade him.” *«T see, and I’ll wager high that you will find the young scamp a most unmitigated rascal,” “If Idol shall be disappointed both in the boy and my judgment of human nature.” ‘‘He is a young terror, Dick.” ‘Then the sooner he is exposed in his villainy, sir, the better.” ‘Certainly, and Tl guarantee that you. will find him false,” ‘* Doherty will soon know, sir.” ‘‘ Yes, for Doherty does his work to per- fection; but I hope you did not trust that boy with any information that he might pro- fit by.” “Prust me for not going wrong in that particular, chief.” ‘‘“You are most cautious, I know; but from what you have thus far discovered, Dick, do you still believe that the girl was murdered, or did she commit suicide?” ‘‘She was murdered, chief.” “You have further proof then than I know, upon which to base your belief?” ‘‘T can simply say, sir, that the boat in which the body was found, having been stolen, and the thief having lost his life, and taken life in securing it, shows me that it was taken for a motive other than theft,” ** And the motive?” **To cover up some tracks that the boat might reveal that were {sft by the mur- derer.” ‘‘Well, Dick, the affair isin your hands and I believe you will work it out in the end to show convincing proof as to whether it was a murder or suicide.” ‘‘IT have come to Chicago, sir, for that purpose and will not rest until the case is solved to your satisfaction, chief, for I am | becoming more and more\interested in it, Tassure you, if only for the fact that no one seems to know who this Beautiful Unknown ‘was. ” ‘ ' to discover anything whatever about-her.” “Well, chief, wait until I make my re- eed answered Dick Doom with a smile and eleft the detective Headquarters to teturn - to his hotel. Pass: | “CHAPTER AIK. | THE COOK'S STORY. 2 Tue great detective sat in his rooms alone, as the our of six approached, and he was waiting for the coming of Doherty and those _ ‘whom he had told him to bring to the hotel ““T confess I can give no light upon the matter, and my best ferrets have been unable | 4 Presently a knock came at the door and Detective John Doherty entered. ‘* They are here, sir,” he said as he enter- ed, ‘Allright; they can wait a few minutes while I talk with you. **What have you done?” ‘‘T went to the address, sir, and it is the house of an HMalian and his wife, who can speak very little English. ‘* Fortunately I speak a little Italian and discovered that they rented a room to two boys who always paid promptly, but were out much of the time, **The woman said that the boys had left early, and so ] went up to the neighborhood of the Marlborough Mansion and I saw two youths fishing upon the spiling at a point where they could see the house and grounds, ‘* As you see, sir, I dressed myself as a clergyman, and going up to the boys had a long talk with them, one being the one whose address you gave me with his description.” ‘* And the other?” “Was a different looking lad, sir, not refined looking as was the other.” ‘Did you find out anything from them?” ‘*Noth'ng, sir, for they were as close as clams, ‘‘T spoke to them asa clergyman would, and one guyed me, but was reproved by his companion.” —, ‘** Which one guyed you?” ‘‘The rough-looking chap, sir; he called mea sky pilot, and told me to goand chin the Salvation Army, for they wasn’t in it. **But his companion told him to keep quiet and he ubeyed him at once, I was surprised to see,” “ And then?” “They were there evidently to keep a watch on the Marlborough Mansion, for that I am certain of, ‘after watching them as I did,” said Detective Doherty. “And then?” . ‘*T took up a position unseen to them, and watched them until late, but they still kept their position on the spiling. “Changing my costume while in my hid- ing-place, | went, later in the afternoon, to the mansion, dressed roughty and with a false beard on, ‘‘As IT came out, the rough looking chap Pen me, and when I started down-town e followed me, leaving his companion still fishing in the lake, “IT watched my chance and eluded my shadower, went home and came here to meet the people from the mansion whom I had told to come here,” “You have done well, Detective Doherty, and I wish you to leave word at the office if a young manlam expecting calls to have ne wait in the office until I send down for m. ; ‘“Then come up here with those people.” John Doherty bowed and left the room, and the detective arose and paced the floor, while he mused aloud: / ' -** Well; Norcross did as I told him, watch- ed the mansion, but he got some companion to help him, doubtless his room-mate. “Am J wrong after all in my opinion of that youth? ‘* We shall see, for I shall bring him face to face with facts which will condemn him if he is guilty.” _A few moments after the departure of John Doherty he returned and was accom- pained by three persons. AR One was a stout woman, English and over- lay ina manner that seemed to delight : 1er, ; ach i : ; ' pep The second was a trim-looking German girl, and the third was a sleek-looking man | ressed with the greatest care. They were the crook, serving-man and chambermaid of the Marlborough Mansion. Dick Doom, in his disguise as a country- ‘i x : man, received them in his brusque way, speaking: with a twang in his voice, and said: ‘* Neow sit right deown thar and I’ll talk with yer, for I has somethin’ to V’arn from yer, | knows. ‘What might be your name, marm?” The overdressed cook responded with promptness: ‘‘My name his Mrs. McNab. I’m Hinglish, you know, though Hi married a Irishman, but Him a widder two years, come the next St. Patrick’s day, when Hi'll be thirty- seven.” The detective smiled at the manner in which Mrs. MeNab had given her biography in a few words, and said: ‘Well, Mrs. McNab, I wish to ask you to tell me what you know about the coming ashore of the boat with the body of the young lady who committed suicide.” ‘* Hi’ll tell you, sir, in a word,” was the answer. And she did, but gave the information that the day before the killing of the coach- man, and the finding of the body of Giant Jack on the grounds, there had come to the mansion a youth about seventeen who had remained talking with the coachman for a long time. ‘*A youth, you say, Mrs. McNab?” $6: Ge) ara * ** Describe him please.” ‘A ’ansome faced young man, you know, fairly well-dressed and with ha pleasing way about him,” ‘* The description of Nick Norcross,” mut- tered Dick Doom, CHAPTER XV. THE RECOGNITION. ArTER questioning Mrs. McNab closely for some time, and learning all that she knew about the strange youth who had vis- ited the coachman, Dick Doom turned to the chambermaid and said: ‘Did you also see the young man talking to the coachman?” ‘“ Yes, sir, I vos see him.” “Pid you talk with him?” +). | ‘‘He vos ask me if he could see Hicks t’e coachman, and Isends him to t’e stables.” ‘* And then?” “Hicks comes out with t’e young mans and show him all around apout t’e place, and t'ey looks at t’e poat v’at lay on t’e lawns.” / hy **'You would know the young man if you. saw him again?” ~ “Oh, yes, I vos know him pretty quick,” was the confident answer. _ Dick Doom, after a few more questions to the pretty German girl, turned to the man- servant and said: | ‘* What is your position in the Marlborough ‘Mansion?’ : “Tam utility man, sir, doing housework, fires, and waiting.” i, | “Did you see this young man of whom the cook and housegirl have spoken?” “J did, sir, for | was in the stable when he came to see the coachman,” ‘« Describe him, please,” The man did so, and his description was a. more complete one than those given by the women, “Do you know how long the young man remained ?” { Ah *« Over half an.héur, sir.” ‘* And the coachman showed him about?” ‘« Yes, sir, and though I have not said so — before, I know the young man gave the coachman some money when they went out by the boat.” ad ‘‘ Ah! was hea friend of the coachman?” “No, sir, they never met before.” “Where was the boat?” | th “Tt was lying there about ten feet from the water, on the lawn, but the coachman, after the t and me to help move it fifty feet nearer to the house,” each young fellow left, got the butler
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ee ** Why did he do this?” ** Well, sir, he only said that he thought it would be safer there than close to the water.” ** T see.” Then Dick Doom turned to John Doherty and said, ! *“Mr. Doherty, go down to the office, please, and see if that visitor I expected is there, and bring him up tomy bedroom.” Detective Doherty obeyed, and Dick } Doom closed the door between the rooms, At last he heard some one enter the next room, and Detective Doherty came in and reported that Nick Norcross was next door awaiting him. . ‘‘May I ask you to step out into the hall a minute, and I will call you as I wish you,” any and Dick Doom led his three visitors to the door. A moment after he opened the bedroom door and called Nick Norcross. The young leader of the River Rats stepped { in with light tread and cheery face and sa- luted Dick Doom politely. [ ‘Sit there, Norcross, and Mr. Doherty, & will you bring Mrs. McNab in, please.”’. { John Doherty stepped to the door and called in the cook. ; . ‘“‘Mrs. McNab, did you ever’see this young man before?” , With one glance at Nick she cried: ‘Ho, but Oi did, sir! hit’s the young fel- ler Oi seen talking to the coachman, sir, the day before the murder.” Nick started and turned deadly pale, and Dick Doom’s eyes seemed to read his soul. «Mr. Doherty, will you call in the servant girl now?” ” Detective Doherty did so, and the moment ) her © he fell upon Nick, before Dick Doom could ask a question, she cried; ‘ ‘That ish t’e young mans, sir.” “What young man?” - . «“T’e one what came to see t’e coach- ; man.” ' “Now, Mr. Doherty,” and Dick Doom’s eyes were fixed upon the youth who was white-faced but perfectly calm, Detective Doherty again went to the door, room, ° ‘Have you ever seen that young man - before?” he was asked by Dick Doom. He had not noticed Nick until his attention was attracted toward him, but now started as he saw him, and without a moment of hesitation answered: “Yes, sir, [ know him.” “*Who is he?” “1 do not know his name, sir, but he’s the one who came to see we coachman the day before he was killed.’ “All right.” “Now you three may go, but do not me, or of seeing this young man here. ble if you talk.” the three servants, telling Detective Doherty to escort them out and then return, and he was left alone with Nick Norcross, whose face was the hue of death, _—- CHAPTER XXI. ,. AcCUBED, t Wuen Detective Doherty left the room with the three who had recognized Nick - Norcross, as the one who had called upon fe the coachman the day before his death, a silence Sm bao ae oa Doom and the youth | that was most painful, Dick Doom arose and paced the floor, and y it was evident that he was deeply moved by the recognition though he had half expected , ‘it, after what he had seen and heard. i Suddenly Nick Norcross spoke, and as _ though reading the throughts of the great § detective he said: | : Pegs and the servant man was called into the | _ speak to any one of having come here to sce | ‘*Remember, you will only get into trou- With this warning Dick Doom dismissed | | tion, and _| that the ca |’ Slipping one of the steel handcuffs upon ; { Dick Doo The Gentleman Crook in Chicag’o., ‘ane SEES AS! DOTY ETON AE LENE. ROTA SEES EAT SS TS SR LETS **- You suspect me, Mr. Richardson, of be- ing the accomplice of the man who was | Dick Doom arrived, and said: killed at the Marlborough Mansion while stealing the boat?” *‘ What else can I believe, Nick?” said the detective in a kindly tone. “‘T admit it all points to my guilt, and I will doubtless be accused of the murder of the coachman, or the accomplice of the murderer.” - ‘Yes, that will be the accusation against you, if not more.” ‘*What more could it be, sir?” **Much more.” : ‘* Please explain, Mr. Richardson.” “Tt will be said that the man who came for that boat had a motive in getting it to hide a greater crime than theft; in fact, that they killed the girl Ethel Enders, and intended to cover up their tracks beyond discovery.” **Oh! Mr. Richardson.” “That will be the accusation, Nick Nor- cross, and as the man Giant Jack was killed, the charge of murdering the girl will with- out doubt be put upon you.” Nick groaned in agony of spirit, but made no reply, and Dick Doom continued: ‘Now, what have you to say for yourself, Nick?” “*T did not kill the coachman, sir.” ** And the girl?” ' ‘‘No! no! not that, not that. JT could harm her,” cried Nick excitedly, ** Nick?” ry ** Yes, sir.” “T am sorry, but prison.” ‘“‘T can expect no more, Mr. Richardson, and you must do your duty.” ‘‘T cannot talk with you now, as I wish, but 1’ll tell you to cheer up and I'll do all in my power to prove you innocent.” ““Thank you, sir.” ‘* Outside of the belief I have that you are innocent, I owe it to you as a duty that I save you, and I will ” ‘*Oh, thank you, sir!” | ‘* Now, I wish to tell you not to speak a word to any one.” ‘*T will not, sir.” ‘ ‘““PDo not talk, for it may give you more trouble, but leave all to me.” “«T will, sir, I will.” A knock came at the door, and Detective not I must send you to Doherty entered. ‘* Mr. Doherty ?” “Yes, sir.” ‘ ] will ring and order a carriage, and you take this prisoner to the chief, with word to put him ina separate cell, and allow no one to disturb him.” F ‘Yes, sir.” ‘Shall I asked Dective Doherty, Nick looked appealingly toward Dick Doom, but there was no mercy in his face, and his voice was unmoved as he replied: ‘“Yes, why not, when he is your pris- oner?” “ _ “And the charge against him, sir?” ‘tHe is accused of being the accomplice of Giant Jack in the murder of the coachman of Mr. barely o - Detective Doherty wrote down the accusa- just then a bell-boy came to say age was at the Qoor. the wrist of Nick Norcross, Detective ah gerd clasped the other about his own, and the two walked away, the oner casting a strange look at Dick Doom as he left the room. a The two attracted no attention as: they went down to the carriage, and soon after Nick Norcross found himself within stone walls. He was placed in a cell to himself, and the charge of murder was put against his name, after which Detective Doherty reported to the chief what he had been told to do by Bot. Bae he ty i : om, A ye hf Te | ris) Par ity Vs, put the bracelets upon him, sir?”’, young pris- He was just leaving the chief’s office when “The prisoner is caged, sir.” ‘‘ All right, Doherty; I wish you to go with me to-night, so be at the hotel at. eleven.” ‘Yes, sir,” and Detective Doherty went. “ on his way, while Dick Doom entered the private office of the chief. CHAPTER XXII, DICK DOOM’S LETTER. “We Lt, Dick, it seems you have bagged the leader of the River Rats, from what De- tective Doherty reported to me,” said the chief as Dick Doom entered. “Yes, sir, he is locked up.” “And accused of murdering that coach- man?” “Yes, sir, that is the supposed crime he has been guilty of.” ‘‘I told you he was a bad lot, as also the gang he is leader of.” ‘Well, chief, I am how bad they are.” ‘“You have begun well, for already have you traced the coachman’s murderer.” ‘No, chief, [have only caught one against. whom there is suspicion; but I'll know be- fore very long just who the murderer is.” “Thope so; but I believe you will find that young imp the guilty one.” _ “1 do not,” “You do not believe him guilty?” ‘“*No, sir.” ‘Doherty does, as I do also from what. he told me.” : ; ‘“‘ Circumstantial evidence, chief, points to the youth’s guilt, but I do not believe him to be, and I have reasons for not doing so.’” “Ah! you know more than Doherty told me?” ‘ ‘“No, sir, I only take my reading of his face and I would swear to his being inno- cent.” “Sentiment, Dick, to cater to one of your fads that you are a mind-reader.” ‘‘Call it what you may, my dear chief.” “But you will work to prove him guilty, as in duty bound of course?” “No, I shall work to prove him inno- cent, sir, and in doing so lay hands upon the guilty one.” eae te ‘* Well, you have mysterious ways in doing your work, but as you always win your case, Dick, I will say nothing against. your methods and give you all the help I can,” ; “‘T well know that, chief, and let me | thank you in sending me so good an assist- ant as you have in Doherty,” Ai “Yes, Jack Doherty is one of my very _ best men, and he knows what heis about, © being nervy, cool, and brainy, while he ig | devoted to his profession.” — » is ee “He is all that, sir, and he goes with me to-night on a mission, and I would like | to ask if rer will have half a dozen men — bree call of this address, sir, at twelve . o’clock.”” ae chief took the address and reading it. WN said: ty hy ‘Yes, the men will be within call of your | signal, Dick; but this is a dangerous locality at night.” + eh wale ‘‘T can well believe that, sir.” ‘‘Now, Dick, just what have you um _ carthed in this mystery?” said the chief with going to find out just. ‘ \ 4 deep interest. Cage ‘Simply, sir, that the youth wha rescue® me from the toughs the other night, an@ who is leader of the River Rats gang,isim some way connected with the murder of the _ coachman at the Marlborough Mansion.” 2 SES CBM Loe ies . “It so he knows about the killing of Giant. Yes, very true.” — Te eR OS _ ‘‘ And knowing this he must know the maa for the killing of the girl Estelle BAG ee ee nd Rone te "4 ‘ > ‘Ss , Ry Ne detail: fohiahs N ee ve ri ‘ An ' tas +! ee ey Pg Tey ey cpreiidey Cline ah Eh" dy ciel pis vay A i Bib ett i* aT ‘ir tat
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“12 — ‘him, Dick | Ing the slightest noise. ’ . pease Ne ike TET: ~~» ‘*T see; but you will believe that she was anurdered,” ‘*T know it, chief,” ‘You are positive, indeed, Dick.” ‘Have you forgotten that on the very night she is supposed to have taken her life, ‘you received a letter from me.” Paes Wabste.? ‘Did you not, early'in the morning, re- ceive from the Leland Hotel a letter from me?” **T did not.” “Why, chief, I wrote you just after dawn ‘to the effect that I had been standing out upon the pier and heard a cry ina woman’s voice out upon the lake * “Tt was a faint cry, some distance off, aand it called for help. : ““Then all was silent and I waited until ‘dawn hoping the boat would come ashore. ‘* But none came, and I went to the hotel, wrote you of what I had heard, and sent the letter by a messenger, for I had to catch an early train for New York.” ‘Dick, I never received that letter.” ““It was sent by a messenger, sir, or rather a youth whom I caught on the fly, anc to make sure of his taking it I told him to collect the money from you.” “‘T will investigate,” and the chief rung ‘the bell for the watchman. By referring to his reports he found the name of the man on duty at that date and hour, and so sent for him, while Dick Doom continued : ‘‘ When I reached Buffalo the next morn- ‘Ing I got a paper on the train which gave an account of the suicide of Estelle Enders, and I at once connected her death with the ery for help the night before, but I forgot it all until I received your telegram to come here, and then the dates brought it all ‘back, ‘* Now that girl was murdered that night ‘in a boat out upon the lake, and it was her cry for help that I heard.” ‘*Dick, Lnow begin to feel that you are ‘xight, that she did not commit suicide,” and just then the watchman appeared. But he could tell nothing of any letter hay- ing been received that had not been put upon the chief's desk, and he added: ‘“‘T would have remembered it, sir, from the fact that I would have had to pay the messenger, and I did not do so. ** No, sir, no letter came for you that morn- ‘ing except by mail, while Twas on watch,” CHAPTER XXIII. THE RAID OF THE DETECTIVES. , ’ Tr was just twelve o’clock when Dick oom and\John Doherty arrived in front of the building) in which Nick Norcross an Peter Pepper had their home. They went quickly up the high steps to the front door, and Dick Doom took a bunch of keys from his pocket and readily unlock- it Ib, Entering the hallway they found al¥ still there, and Detective Doherty had explained ‘that the Italian and his wife had their room in the rear, as he had noted when visiting the house, The same key then unlocked the door ap on the right, and they found themselves in Nick’s upper room. | I. was not lighted save from the open trap- doo1, there being a light in the room below. _Noiselessly crossing the room Dick Doom glanced down through the trap-coor, which hac. been left open. i ‘He saw that the basement room was more «comfortable in every respect than the one ‘they were in, and there upon his bed, fast asleep, lay a youth, while a lamp burned in ‘the fireplace. Beckoning to Detective Doherty to follow oom went below without mak- ‘Another bed there held no occupant. ‘ ITs yt The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. It was the bed of Nick, who was then be- hind iron bars. The two detectives stood by the side of the sleeping youth and Doherty whispered: ‘It is the one who was_ fishing with the young one I jugged.” *“* And the one who came with him to my rescue when I was sct upon,” answered Dick Doom half aloud. The voice caused the sleeper to move and ask in drowsy tones: “Is that you, Nick?” ** No, but I want you.” Pete Pepper was awake in an _ instant now and with a cry sat up and gazed at the two detectives. . ** Who is yer?” he gasped. * Whoare you?” ““None o’ yer bizziness—Lordy, you is ther old guy from Wayback we kept from ir eat up by ther toughs, hain’t yer?” “Yes.” ‘* Did yer come in with Nick?” se No.” . ‘How did yer git in then?” “Unlocked your doors and came in.” ‘*Ts yer on ther steal?” ce No. »”» “Yer is in luck for yer won’t git nothin’ here,”=» “1 differ with you.” ** What'll you git?” ** Quite a haul.” ‘You can't git blood out o’ a turnip, old Country.” ‘*T'll tell you what I came for?’ “What?” ‘To run you in,” ** What has I done?” ‘“The charge against you is murder.” | ‘Lordy, old man, you are away off, for you kilt that tough one before we come up.” **T do not refer to that man.” ‘Who then?” ** Another?” Pete laughed and said: a ‘If that’s yer charge jist yank me off to ther lock-up, for yer hev got ter find ther body, and as I hain’t never kilt nobody yer cant doit.” -» eee v The eyes of Dick Doom were reading the face of the youth with a look that was in- tense, but he said abruptly: ‘‘Tlow about Mr. Marlborough’s coach- man?” : . ‘““You is away off there, for I never seen him in my life.” ‘Do you know Giant Jack?” “Lordy! that big duffer as—” Pete paused and Dick Doom said quietly: ‘* Well, finish your sentence.” ** [ hain’t got no more to say.” ‘You knew that Giant Jack was dead?” ‘* Didn’t I see” Again he paused and Dick Doom turned to his companion and said: ‘*Mr,. Doherty, put the bracelets on this young gentleman, please.” Pete gave a sigh and turned pale, but made no resistance, but held out his hands and Doherty slipped on the irons in a way that showed he had had much practice in that direction. | Then Pete was told to get out of bed, and the detective aided him to dress, while Dick | Doom began a systematic search of the room. t He searched eve that showed the expert, looking in unsus- pected places, and placing all that he found worth taking charge of im a pile on the floor. Going tothe, room above, he searched that | breakers?” also, and making up a bundle of bis find- ings, he took up the lamp, and telling De- | tective Doherty to follow with his prisoner, he went to the room above. There he put out the lamp, and they passed | silently out into the hall and left the house without having disturbed the other inmates. “Tl give the signal for my men in wait- ing, Doherty, and when they come, go with rywhere, and with a skill them and the prisoner to the jail, and com- mit this young gentleman. “Do not let the other one know of his capture, nor tell this one of Nick’s being a prisoner,” and he whispered the last words to Detective Doherty. The signal wos then given, and at a double- quick a sergeant and four men came in sight just as Dick Doom shouldered his bundle and walked away toward his hotel. Half an hour after, Pete Pepper found himself a prisoner behind iron bars, but little dreamed that Nick Norerpss was not far away. / CHAPTER XXIV. TRAPPING THE RIVER RA'IS. Dick Doom had set to work in earnest to solve the mystery hanging over the death of Estelle Enders,.and connecting with it Nick Noreross and his band. As he could not bring himself to believe, in spite of the circumstantial evidence ofjhis guilt, that the youth was in any way guilty of the crime of even being an accomplice in the murder, he was determined to prove that he was innocent. . To do this also was, he felt, his duty, for he owed his life to Nick Norcross. He had caused the arrest of Pete Pepper for a reason that will be revealed later, and having laid his plans in his own mind, he set about carrying them out with dispatch in his usual way. His plan was to get each one of the River Rats in custody, and to do this he asked for 4 detail of some thirty men. At the head of these John Doherty was placed, and he had orders to put these de- tectives on the trail of the River Rats, hunt ing down each one of the band. The police knew one and all of these youths, and was always on the alert to find out just what they were doing, and the de- tectives were informed of the whereabouts of those who comprised the band. “‘Once I get them all into my custody, I can find out much that I wish to know, and. as each one will be imprisoned separately, that will give me a chance to hear their stories apart,” mused Dick Doom after Detective Doherty had started upon his mission. f While the detectives were on the search of the River Rats still at large, Dick Doom decided to see what he could find out from Nick Norcross and Pete Pepper already in his power, He went to the cell of the latter last, and being admitted by the keeper found Pete lying upon his cot and looking very discon- solate. But the youth braced up as the ‘detective: entered and said: aye “Well, old gent from Wayback, this is where you put me for helping you out the other night?” . “Yes, and I put you here for a purpose, epper.” “To send us to Joliet, I suppose.” ‘** Not if you can keep out.” “I’m already in, so how kin Ihelp my- self?” ‘<1’ tell you.” ‘«That’s a 20.” “‘T happen to know that you belong to a band of youths, thirteen in number and known to the police as River Rats.” ‘ ‘““Waal, what o’ that so long as we is honest and breaks no laws?” | “But are you honest and not law- 4 “Tf you think we haib’t, just prove us guilty and you wins.” % $f 5 Oa captain is named Nick Norcross?” “You found, that out by getting the papers in our room.” “«T found out more.” ‘“ What else?” ‘‘T know that Norcross is well born, and
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- what he could discover that would be usefu . number of cases of crime that had defied the tive Dohert _ the band of \ The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. i ‘ 13: Bate ; , P > that he was stolen from his parents in his | Going to the chief's private office he said: younger years,” ‘* How does yer know it, old gent?” _ ‘From papers I found among his belong- ings. ” e Waal, he never told me anything about that; but I does know he be a born gent, and he’s squar’ and nervy clear through,” “‘ What was your band formed for?” «That s a secret.” “You mean that you will not tell?” ie was not to be bribed, or frightened by threats, and so was sent back to his cell, Number Thirteen was Nick Norcross, and he bowed to the detective and then to the ef. ' ‘Well, Norcross, this is a bad business ou have gotten yourself into,” said Dick m. “« Yes, air, it is,”
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a a ian > —— =} " — « —— ¢ 14 The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. ‘Well, I shall try another plan, to-| morrow.” and without proof. ‘« What is that?” ‘‘T fear it will do Nick no good, and I ‘‘T shall set a trap for them by simply | want you to understand that I am working ‘““Why do you not come out. squarely and make a clean breast of it all?” ‘*Of what sir?” ‘The killing of Mr. Marlborough’s coach- ‘*This is your story of your friend, Pete, Man?’ making known to each one separately that | to save him, for lowe him my life, as you ‘‘Tam not at liberty to do so, sir.” Nick ores is accused of murdering | know.” : ‘ ‘« Why not?” Estelle Enders, and then killed the coach- After a moment of silence Pete said im- ‘*It is not my secret,” ‘man when he was at the mansion stealing | pressively: “f It is a crime which you will be accused Oo Naf ‘*T am innocentjof the charge, sir.” ‘*Can you prove that?” *« No, sir, 1 fear that I cannot.” ** Why can you not?” ‘* Well, sir, it would harm others as well as myself.” ** And you will not betray them?” **No, no, never,” ‘You will be the one to suffer if you do not,” ‘‘T must suffer then.” Ey you not let others talk then to clear ‘ou ye ‘No one else can.” ‘*- Your band.” ‘* Ah! the River Rats, sir?” “6 Yes.” ’ They can do nothing, sir, even if you knew where to find them.” ; “*T do know.” ae Norcross smiled incredulously and Said: ; ; ‘* Where, sir?” “‘In this jail.” a ee understand you, sir,” faltered the outh, hey we Let me explain by telling you that every one of your gang are prisoners in this jail Ww, ‘‘T do not wish to doubt you, sir, but I can hardly believe that.” “TH read given by each one, their ages and general appearance,” and taking up the book on the desk Dick Doom read slowly each name and description given, ‘Tam awful sorry, sir.” ** Well, now, you do not wish all of these | big ee: of yours sent to prison do you?” “e 0, sir,” - ‘‘ Then confess what the motive of your band is, and all about them, and you shall see them ‘set free, though of course you must be held until the charges against you are disproved.” ' **T haye nothing to confess, sir,” 8 **You are determined to abide by this decision?” . “Tam, sir.” ‘« All right, Norcross, I fear you are simply putting the noose of the hangman about your neck,” said the chief with a show of anger, depoo for the first time. \ ou their names, the occupation |’ the boat, to hide his crime, and that he was in league with Giant Jack the convict.” ‘‘You think that they will fall into that trap?” j : fT doses “Why?” ; ‘*From their love of their leader.” “Tt is a great idea, and it may make them talk, so itsis worth the trial, Dick,” answered the chief; Having formed his plan Dick Doom carried it out in his own way. He went to the cell of Pete Pepper first on the second day after the interview with the man Rats in the private office of the chief. He went in with a very serious face and taking a seat upon the cot said: ‘*See here, my boy, I have come to have a talk with you, and I wish you to appreciate just how grave is the situation,” * “Yes, sir,” and Pete was certainly im- pressed by the words and manner of Dick Doom. hal He had begun to feel all the horrors of rison life, and miss the sunshine and reedom without. : ' ‘It is not you that are in trouble, Pete, pa the chances are that in time you will go ree.” ; ** Who then, sir?” ' * Your good friend Norcross.” ** What has he done?” “Till tell you just what he is charged with, and you can realize his full danger,” ‘* Yes, sir, please do.” ‘*You know that a young girl was found ina boat dead, on the shore of the Marl- borough grounds some time ago?” ‘* Yes, sir, I know.” : ‘‘Well, it was published that she took her own life, and it has so far not been pers to the contrary, except that I doubt er being a suicide.” *«That’s what Nick said, sir.” «Well, the charge is that he knows.” “ Nick knows?” . ** Yes, for it is said that he killed her, or was an accomplice, and that he went with Giant Jack to steal the boat her body was found in, that he might cover up the murder, which something about the craft might re- veal, and being discovered he killed the coachman,” ; A ‘It’s a lie, sir, it’s a mean lie!” cried Pete ‘* See here, I’m going to give it all to you straight as a string.” CHAPTER XXVIII, PETE PEPPER’S CONFESSION, Pete had lost his cheeky, impudent man- ner now, for he had really begun to see that his friend was in great danger. He was excited now and wore an anxious look, while the detective was perfectly calm. “Well, Pete, I am glad you have de- cided to tell the truth, for it will save your chum.” ’ p. “Then I'll do it if I hang for it, “You see, old gent, Nick saved my life once and I’m tied to him tight in friend- ship, though he is of a different kind from me ‘‘ We has been pals fer nearly two years, and though I were once a very bad boy he made me see my wicked ways, and he hain’t no preacher neither. ; ‘““We pooled our money and got along prime, and I had to cut my old pals. ‘*But they all liked Nick, and begun to come round to see us, and he got them to live honest, too, and so our gang was form- ‘* Not for crime then?” “«- You bet it wasn’t with Nick the cap’n. «*No, he made us take different kinds of work, and we all chipped in our earnings and he was made treasurer. time for picking pockets, and he was no more guilty than you, for he was out on the lake fishing when the man was robbed. ‘But the fellow swore he was the one, and as he’d had paid him our week’s money, to send to Nick, and sixty dollars was found on him, that settled it, and up he went. ‘‘Our testimony was no good, for the police said we was a gang of thieves. “This made Nick mad, and he said it was hard, when one was not guilty, to be sent,to ail, and when we were all trying to live onest to be called thieves and toughs, ‘*So he said as how we would make up a band of ferrets.” “‘Of ferrets?” “Yes, old gent, Secret Service boys, and | sco if we could not run down game the police could not, ut Nick made no reply, showed no emo- | Pepper excitedly. ““We begun to shadow the crooks, and I tion, exe at Pe . | * What is a lie, Pete?” tell you we helped get back stolen property a edlegs ab aE. “That he would harm that beautiful lady | many a time, only we did not dare letthe CHAPTER XXVIL ° ts who had been so good tohim. _ police know we had helped, and Nick,in - THE TRAP. h | “Why, I saw Nick when he read the no- | disguise, would do the work, and we got { Dick Doom was disappointed greatly, at | tice of her death, and he cried about it,” : some good rewards, I can tell you, and our a" the outcome of his interview with each one \ _. of the River Rats and lastly their chief, Nick Norcross. , They had refused bribes, disregarded threats and stood together firmly. ‘No entreaties could move them, and each one had passed through the ordeal, con _ -™ vincing both the chief and Dick Doom that “ How had she been good to him, Pete?” ‘““Why, Mr. Richardson,” said Pete earnestly, calling the\great detective by the name he went by in his disguise: / ‘* Nick pulled a child out of the way, 3 treasury has got a clean thousand in it . now.’ -“@o on, Pete, for your story interests tg ‘‘ Well, sir, we found out new and then a saved it from being run oyer, but fell him- | policeman or detective who ~‘s crooked, self and the truck broke his leg. would take bribes, and do other mean © “That lady saw the act, took him inea | actions, and Nick kept a record of them, _ “* Well, one day one of our gang was ar- ; and he is now in Joliet, serving his they had a secret all their own, but yet | carriage and drove to the hospital and left) “‘ uy. the cops used to nab us just to get x _ ‘would not reveal it unless perhaps to save | him'there, giving the doctors money to care | money from us, for we’d pay to get away, “4 their young leader from the hangman, for | for him. pCi Phau you kin bet.” * . yt the hint that such might be his fate had} ‘And she sent him fruit and flowers,| ‘‘I see.” he Ma ie ig gta Se TS ne i 7 bee i’ 7 a : r we ya r * t ? er) Seay era Ae Wives meg Be Gr eee AT haa eee page > pee Gd Py APS OES ‘ in 5 lari, y AY die iho ball ah : ba! Fa! bat Toye Shy ft ypunye Cali LP} n
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The Gentleman Crook in Chicago. . 15 but when it comes to Nick being hanged, you bet oaths hain’t in it a little bit. ‘‘Now let me tell you that Nick had an idea that if he got that boat, he could find out the maker of it, and who it had been sold to. ‘*So up he goes to the Marlborough Man- sion and gives some money to the coachman, and he shows him round and he takes in the situation. ‘That night the boys went to a certain ) place to meet us, and Nick and me went up after the boat. | “The only way we could get it was to steal it, and Nick said that was all right if b we could get good out of it, { ‘We rowed up then in our own boat, anchored it, and stripping off our duds swam ashore, , f ‘‘We found the boat had been moved : further up on the lawn, and we were in the ; lake when we seen a man at the boat. } “‘ He was a big fellow and we seen he was stealing it, and doing our work for us. "4 ‘He got the boat into the lake and then " went for the oars, and we heard a man’s cry over in the stable, ‘Then the big man come running out and Nick said he would bag him and we showed ourselves. ‘* Lord, but he was mad, and whippina out a knife he ran upon Nick saying he would ? kill him. ‘But Nick brought the oar down on his head and that settled iim. / “Then we got into the boat and rowed away and hid it, ‘That's the story, old Sa and you can’t make Nick guilty of murder out of that.” CHAPTER XXIX, ON THE RIGHT TRACK, Havrnea made his confession, told his : Story, as it were, Pete Pepper relapsed into m Silence, his face wearing a look of defiance. , When ho had concluded Dick Doom after & moment of silence said: “ Pete, you have acted very wisely in tell- ing me the truth. ““T have felt sure that Nick Norcross was a guilty, and I was determined to prove mM so ‘Now I know who killed the coachman, ; and can account for Giant Jack’s death, and Nick acted in self-defense, “Giant Jack went there for a : Ose than to merely steal that ‘x d some deeper object in view. ae ‘‘T am the more convinced now that Miss P _ Enders was murdered, and do not believe ; that it could have been by Giant Jack, for he was very different from what she is repre- Sented to have been, and if he did kill her he was paid to do so. “Tf he did “ot, then he was stealing the boat at the instigation of some one. jee “Now my plan is to find out who Giant : Jack was acting for, and who manufactured ‘ the boat. ; Fal “When this is done, we whom the boat was sold. ** Now where is it?” «Ther boat?” ** Yes,” ; “‘T kin take you to it, forI sees Nick’s friend.’ ; aia ‘Tl come for you then at three o'clock,” ; ~ and Dick Doom left the cell. _ His next visit was to Bricktop, and in the me way, by speakin that @ same story from him, _ Detective John Doherty outside of ev pur- oat, for he can find out to you is ‘= e could save him, . | Doherty will go with me. of the danger to | gr ‘& young man was dressing for dinner at h 8 but Dick Doom was certain that they all knew about it, but would not tell on their leader. Then, after seeing allof the gang, Dick Doom went to the cell of Nick Norcross, ‘Let me tell you-something, Nick?” ‘* ‘Yes, sir.” ‘Tam not guessing now, for I know, so tell me just how you killed Giant Jack.” The youth started, but made a clean breast of it, as Pete had done, and without any com- ment Dick Doom asked: ; ‘‘Do you kuow anything about Giant Jack?” ‘*Yes, sir, I know all about him, for I wished to find out for whom he was acting, when he went to steal that boat, and I was going to tell you what I had discovered when you had me arrested, after those servants re- cognized me.” * Well, what do you know, for I am work- ing now for you, as well as to find the mur- derer of Miss Enders, ‘‘T found out, sir, that the boat was made by Seaman & Co,, builders, and it was sold toa gentleman who owns a small yacht, and lives mighty fast. *‘T also found out that Giant Jack. was seen talking to a young man who was well dressed, the day before I struck him,” ‘* Where is this boat now?” ‘‘In the maker’s shop, for I took it there the day I was arrested and told him I wanted to leave it there to be fixed up, and the Owner would call and see him about it,” ‘* Give me the address,” This Nick did, and Dick Doom asked: **Are you the only one who knows who the young man is who bought the boat?” CON ee “« Give me his address also,” Nick wrote down the name and where the young man was to be found. Then he said: ‘‘Cheer up, Nick, for Ill have you out of this before very long, mark my words.” Leaving Nick’s cell, Dick Doom returned to that of Pete Pepper and said; ‘Pete, the boat was removed from the hiding-place, so 1 will not trouble you to go with me; but I'll promise you that instead all of you will be re.eased from prison very soon.” “ Nick too?” “¢Oh, yes.” . Then Dick Doom went to the chief’s quar- ters and had a long talk with him. : He told him the story as he had heard it from the Boy Ferrets, and then asked: ‘Now tell me what you know of Merton Sanford?” ** Well, he is a young highfyer here in town that makes a big show upon what is said to be a small capital, but I hear gambles and wins heavily. “He has been very dissipated, but is now quite respectable in his behavior as he is said to be engaged to Miss Myrtle Marlborough, who isan heiress toa very large fortune. "She is now in New York with her rents. and I hate to see her marry that. ellow. for it is said he was once secretly married to some actress, though I guess that is a mistake.” : “Well, chief, Tam going tc call upon Mr. Sanford at his rooms this evening, and just as a card was brought in to him by his valet. : He was a man of thirty, with a handsome face marred somewhat by a look of dissi- pation and an expression that was cynical and not at all winning. But his manners were courtly, those of a gentleman, though cold and reserved, and ‘he would have been admired in any gather- ing, while he was just the one to win a woman's love. ** Who the deuce is it, Crump?” he asked his valet. ‘He's a hold guy, sir, who says he knew ou when you was ha boy, sir,” said the English valet, ‘*T will see him, for I may be entertain- ing an angel unawares, in fact some old rich duffer who may be looking for an heir,” ‘Yes, sir, hit may be.” ‘*Now go the stable and order me a car- riage, for I am about dressed.” Crump went out and a moment after the young man entered his parlor to find there the one whom the valet had called an old ht: 5 Pod “Mr. Merton Sanford, I take it.” «Yes, sir, and who He you be?” “The father of Estelle Enders,” A cry broke from the lips of Merton San- ford, his face became deadly pale, he reeled and sunk down upon a lounge, while great beads of cold sweat rolled down his face. “Oh, why did you kill that poor child, man?” cried the old man, advancing toward the lounge. ‘‘Good God! who told you that J killed her? ‘‘T heard her cry upon the lake for help that night, and know that you murdered her, and then landed upon ‘the Marlborough grounds, with which you are well acquaint- ed, and made your escape. ‘‘T know all, Merton Sanford, all, and—” With a cry of frenzy, Merton Sanford sprung from the lounge crying: «“Then you know too much, and you, too, shall die!’ But a revolver-muzzle looked into his face, and the words came sternly: ‘‘Hfold! out with your hands for my golden fetters, sir, for lam Dick Doom, the detec- tive,” Again the man staggered back, and sink- ing upon the lounge buried his face in his hands, and a pair of golden fetters was. quickly clasped upon his wrists. “Yes, Merton Sanford, I know that you married secretly the pretty actress Estelle Enders, and then deserted her. “She came here to seek YON, and know- ing that she stood between you and your marriage to Miss Myrtle Marlborough, you sought to force her to set you free. ‘Ags she refused you determined to free yourself, and taking her out on the lake on that fatal night, you held a handkerchief saturated with cologne to her nose untii she died. ‘That is the story, I know, as though I had seen it, and you plotted her death, for > and and took it with you. “You covered up as she was known by her stage name, Helen Hazleton, no one knew her by the name she took when she came here to find you, ‘‘Now, Merton Sanford, come with me to prison—ho, Doherty!” Fe ia) Quickly the door leading into the hall, and which was ajar, opened wide and Detective “ As this is your night in your office until late I may see you again,” and as it was owing dark Dick Doom left the chief’s So the latter muttering as he de- parted: at “Dick Doom has struck a fresh trail, that is certain.” ie pape sf , ‘) _ CHAPTER XXX, THE GUILTY ONE, ~ In pleasant rooms on Twenty-second stre his face as he said: ** Well, sir, you did run slickest I ever saw.” |. “Take him to prison, D | his capture to the chief, whom here with gentleman him to earth the ne ects.” club, for he was putting on his dress-suit | have run this murdering crock in.” _ } y ; t ‘ ‘c 4 Ri bad ~ A uae My vod PIA We baa We Hy oh ee ae wa te o use Te ean RIE ¥ ‘ OE, hele om ATTRA moet Cote. Lita NP ee OS oa ah aee Me ART. \Wiceatet tele teat) = el ae > Neh. Weta. WE TRE Te Phe igs Nae tL Lo) J ‘ MLS SEAL Hee LUE CPM ay AIT Chee Oper ike MORE: TO RE TCL ed ee hm +? " you wrote the slip of paper she held in her de tracks well, and — | John Doherty entered, a satisfied smile upon 1 tty, and report i. n ask toreturn you that he may look through this — Ss effi » : / ror R FM) Pt) “TT bring him back soon, sir, soon as 1 2 twa nm "hk,
Page 16
16 “And, Doherty, ask the chief to bring with you Nick Norcross and Pete Pepper, for we owe it to them mostly that we bagged our game.” “Yes, sir, and they should come,” said John Doherty, as he led his submissive prisoner from the room. Detective Doherty had just driven away with his prisoner when Crump the valet re- turned and was at once seized by Dick Doom, greatly to the alarm of the English. man. Within an hour the carriage returned and in it was the chief, Detective Doherty, Nick Norcross and Pete Pepper, all of whom had now heard the story of how Merton Sanford ya been entrapped into betraying his guilt. ‘Norcross, you are free,and I congratu- late you and your comrade Pete upon all that you have done in this Enders murder case, and the chief should certainly attach the River Rats to his Secret Service Bureau,” said Dick Doom, “Bgad but I will, for they are well worthy of it and will make splendid ferrets. ‘* To-morrow, Norcross, we will get you free of this charge against you,” said the chief. ‘““Do so, chief, and then I shall feel con- tent, though | have a duty to perform some day in the behalf of my young rescuer and friend,” said Dick Doom. ‘“* And what duty is that, sir?” asked Nick Norcross eagerly. **Do you know who your parents were?” ‘No, sir, I know Hothing of my past.” ‘Then some day I will try and find out for you,” was Dick Doom’s response. , CHAPTER XXXI. CONCLUSION. Just how it happened, no one at Head- quarters seemed to know, but when the cell in which Merton Sanford had. been placed was opened the next morning, it was found empty. The iron bars had been filed in two, and passing out into the yard, the clever pris- oner had made his escape. Of course no one was to blame, except that he had not been searched thoroughly before being put into the cell, though with his dress suit on it was not thought neces- sary, and Detective Doherty had promised to bring other clothing for him when he came \ back from his rooms. In the search of Sanford’s room nothing was found to criminate him as the murderer of Estelle Enders, the actress, but the papers told the story as it was, and his escape seemed proof positive of his guilt. In the affair, that the Boy Ferrets might be made useful as such, nothing was said of their good services rendered, and Dick Doom, wishing to remain unknown in the affair, for reasons of his own, Detective John Doherty was given the credit of the splendid Secret Service work, and he de- served much praise for the part he had played in the Chicago chase after the crooks. Mr. Marlborough at once sailed for Europe with hjs wife and daughter, the latter, it was said, glad to escape the mar- riage with Sanford, as it was a match her mother had made. Of course the mysterious affair created a nine-days’ stir, but was then forgotten. But Dick Doom still continues to shadow the crooks, and promises yet to reveal the secret of the parentage of Nick Norcross, the Boy Ferret, and what the great detective pledges himself to he accomplishes, so let my readers look out for the keeping of the promise made, _ ; : ' “THE END, | etecti i av 2k Ve ace WA ys { \ Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. —— ee BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela, 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road. + See pee} picks Detanect or, peace Daggern. cad woo ek In yeuise; or, Buifal, Ben 85 Deadwood Dick in this Castle. 42 Deadwood Dick's Bonnnza; o., The Phantom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick In_ Danger; or, Omena ll. 5&2 Deadwoud Dick's Engles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar, 73 Deadwood Bick on beck; or, Qnlamity ¢ ne, the Heroine ma rar pehtice pe tant nate or, Cordursy Cunrlie. eadwoo ck in Lends thle, 104 Deadwood Wiek'’s De ive: or, The Double C Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick fae ihsamahens : itis Xc 129 Deadwood Dick's Doutile: or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. a3 Peedwoud oy Home mane ota ieee a. a tad woo ck's v Strike} or, Sume ot Gold, 166 Dendwouod Diek of ticadwood: or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick's Prenin; or, The Rivids of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hili’s Jezebel, rit bent teat pe mone kes palaciey June’s Adventure, endwood ek’s Den eal. 221 Deadwood Dick’s Death-Plant, 2832 Gold-Dust Dick. A Romance of Rongh+ and Tonghs, oer ep abt Picks Pir ide £0 Fhe Spirit of Swamp Lake. cadwoo ck’s Death Trath. 809 Deadwood Dick’s Deals or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. 821 Deadwood Pich’sa Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats 847 Deadweod Dick's Dueuta; or, Days in the Diggings. nee peagwees lek wonvenees or, Che Terrible Vendetta. endwoo ck’a Claim, 05 Deadwood Dick tu Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s IMemaudect. 421 Dendwood Dick In New York; gh A “Cute Care,” 480 Deadweod Dick’s Busts or, The Chained Hand. ye pond weed eee or ; Eee Crimson Crescent Sign. 5 Jead woo ek, Jr.'s, Definnee. 458 Deadwood Pick, Jr.’s Full Mand. 45? Deadwood Dick; dra, Bir Round-Up, 465 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s. Racket at Claim 10, 431 peedweed ck? sre perres 2 rene Bill. adwoor ¢ ° « Detec % aot popiness Gite gen wecnaset on q i Xe ot. 496 Deadwood . Tria. Inheritance. aoe medincee Dick? aren, Ps ings. endwoo ck, Jr. eliverance, BLE Beedwesd Bick. Src frosser™ woo “ 'e ree. 529 Deadwoed Bick, te Dauger Ducks. 584 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Death Hunt. Bid Dendwood Dick? Are, tne Wild Weet Vidoor wi ek, dr., the en 549 Deadwood Dick, Jr. on Mix Mettle. Bet pectvend pict dr fs getear 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadelphia. er Meaased BEE 3 Map ad woo ek, dr. o BS4- eadweod Dek, J r.» In Beaver. 5 wood Dick, Jr.’*, Decree, 595 Deadwood Dick Jr., In Beelzebub’s Basin. 600 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Coney Island. Sis Desdeccd Dick, See ie hetvolee eadw ck, Jr., in Detro 618 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinaatt. SRo Deeded Dick; Je: ie Ne Mews Land endwoo ek, Jr., in No Man’s Land. 686 Deadwood Dick, Jr. After the Queer. 642 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Buffalo, ot nerens bony 4 Sey — Reuceetee cansinent wood Dick J x ugglers. Weg Deadwood Bets 3 6T2 Deadwood Dick, 678 Deadwood Dick, dr.ta, Loaurence Case, gre Mines. ry tn Durango: or, “ Gathered In.” J ut. HOR, Jr.’a, Dixeulse, WAT Pr.’ Ry Beet rast Disk, aren, Ronotcostl endwoo ek, Jrve, Resurrection, Th2 Deudwood Dick, J vee Pare Days. $3 Deadwood Dick, dr., Deficd. 92 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double Device, 797 Dendwood Dick, Jr’.4, Deaperate Venture, 802 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’*, Dinmond Dice. 807 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’8; Royal Flush. 812 Deadwood Pio e Sr. Nead-off, 816 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Rival. j BY WM. G. PATTEN. 629 Violet Vane, the Velvet Sport: or, The Jubilee of Jacktown, 68 Violet Vane’« Victory; or, The Jasper City Clean Out, 3 RB and Daltay, the Posy Pardes. % Violet Vane’s Vow; or, The Crafty Detecttve’s Crait, Violet Vane’«s Vengennee; or, The Wipe Ont, Violet Vane'’s Verdlets or, The Game at Coffin City. Violet Vane, the Ventriloquist Vidocq: or, Sport vs. Sport. Violet Vane. the Vanquished; or, The Lite Strugg'e. Violet Vane’s Vision; or, The Fiery Hand of Fate, | ‘The Diamond Sport? or, The Double Face of Bed Rock, Geptars AM yatery ; or, Five in One, Pala) ware the Sport from Denver. Old Bombshell, thé Ranger Detective. Tron Fern, the Man of Fire; or, Among the Vultures. The er Tramp Detective: or. The Doubie Grip Witness Dave's and ; Pards or, The Clue to Capt. Claw Rows Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective fld Vulcan, the Lone-Range Rider, 3 Misery the Man from Missouri. lear-Grit Cal, the Never Say-Die Detective. Sam Sheridan, the Secret Service Special, Cowboy Steve, the Ranch Mascot. * BY COL. A. F. HOLT, 811 Weadlight Narry’« Flyer; or, Duke Derby. ‘ 678 Headiighs HMarry’s Hazard; or, The Lightning Express ve. Hon tY wesenen 3 or, The Masked Men of Deeth Canyon, 19 teune nife-King; or, The Doomed Six. % Little Lightfoot, the Pilot of the Woods, The Dandy Spert; or, The King Pin Conspirator, r t is _@ 2 ct s The Gentleman Crook in Chicago, . | So BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 72 Dick Doom’s Death-Grip; cr, The Detective by Des @7 Vick Doom's Destiny; or, The River Blacklee’s Terre 84 Dick Doom; or, ) he Sharps and Sharks of New York, 88 Bick Doom in Boxtons or, A Man of Many Maal.:. 798 Dick Doom in Chicugo. 798 Dick Doom in the Wild Veat. 808 Dick Doom's Clean Sweep; or, Five Links in a Clue Dick Doom’s Death Clue. ' Dick Doom’s Dinmond Deal, F49 Dashing Charlie: or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Ty 756 Dashing Charlic’s Destinys or, The Renegade’s Capt 760 Dashing Chariic’« Pawnee Pard, 768 Dashing Charife, the Keocuer, 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. | 78T Buck Taylor, the ( omanche’s Ca otive, ] $48 Back Taylor’s Boys; or, The Red Riders ofthe Rio Gran 560 Pawnee BI, the Prairie Shadower. Tis Pawnee aa or, Curl, the Mad Cowhoy. 719 Pawnee Bill's Pledire; or, The Cowloy'e Doom, 725 Pawnee Bill; or, During Dick. 692 Bedfern’« Curlous Cave; o, The Rival Sharps, 697 Redtern at Bevil’s Raneh; or, The Sharp from $02 Redtern’s High Mond ors Blue Jacket. 707 Redfern’s Last Trail; or, The Red Sombrero Rangers, 66R Red Ralph's Ruse; or, The Buccaneer Midshipman. 674 Red Ralph's Bold Game; or, ‘The Wizard Sailor. G79 Red Ralph, the Sliadower, or, The Freebvoter's Legacy 644 Butterfly Billy's Disgniae, 50 Vutterily Billy, the Pony f xpress G56 Butterfly Billy’« Man Wunt. 662 Butterliy Billy’s Bonanza. 565 Kent Kingdon; or, The Ow!s of the Overland, 570 Kent Kingdon’s Shadower 3 or. the Card Queen, 575 Kent Kingdon’« Duel; cr, The Surgeon Scout, 586 Kent Kingdon’s Doom; or, The Buckskin Avenger. 545 Lafitte Run Down; or, The Buccaneers of Barrataria.. 550 Lafitte’s Legacy: or. The Avenging Son. 555 Lafitte’s Confessions or, The Crevle Corsair, 520 Buckekin Bill, the Comanche Shadow, 525 The Buekskin Brothers tn Texas, ‘ 530 The Buckskin Bowers; or The Cowboy Pirates, ‘ apo? 585 The Buckskin Rovers; or, The Prairie Fugitive. ~ tea 540 The Euckskin Pards’ Quest; or, Captuin Ku-Klux. a 508 The Royal Middy ¢ or, The Shark and the Sea Cat. ; 507 The Royal Middy’« Luck; or, The Hunted Midshipmay — $11 he Royal Middy’s Foc. | 450 Wizard WII1; or, The Boy Ferret ot New York. 454 Wizard Will’ Street Scouts 74 Wizard Wills Pard; cr, Fiera, the Flower Girl. & Wizard WILI'« Last Case; or, The Ferrets Afloat. 429 Duncan Pare, the Boy Refuges. 488 Dancan Pare’s Plot; or, A Cabin Boy’s Luck, 487 Donean Paere’s Prize; or, The Sea Raider. 441 Duncan Dare’s Secret; or, The Ocean Firefly. ty 402 Iacdor, the Young Conaptrators or, The Fatal Leagn 497 Isnodor’a Double Enases are Thee » Tosurgent. om 412 Isodor’s Wur-Cloud Cruise; or, The Wild Yachteman VIG Mtaon Wi"), the Prince of the Reins, 2 222 Bison BItl's Clues or, Grit, the Bravo Sport, B04 Tend Shot Dandy’s Dilemma, _ 5 808 Dead Khot Pandy’s Double; or, Keno Kit. 814 Dead Shot Dandy’s Defiancet or, The Loy Bugler. ete 607 Dead Shot Bandy’s Chic fy or, The River Detective, 245 Merle Monte’s Leap for Life. 250 Merle Monte’s Mutiny ¢ or, Brandt, the Buccaneer. 264 Merle Monte’s Treasure Island, 26° Merle Monte the Condemned. 278 Merle Monte'a Oratacs or, * The Gold Ship” Chase, : p 280 Merle Monte’s Fate: or, The Pirate's Pride. { = ee 284 Merle Sonte’s Pledges or, The Sea Marauder. GREP, 23.38 197 The Kid Glove Sports or. Little Grit, the Wild Rider, ne 204 The Kid Gleve Aport’s Doom; or, Buffalo Bill, thy Pouy Express Rider, st TRL Ruth Redmend, the Gir) Shadower, ERG Orlando, the Orean Free Flag. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scout. 602 The Vagabond ofthe Mines, 597 The Texan Detectives or, The Black Bravos, 5BY1 Belmonte, the Young Sea Rover; or, The Avenging Sailor. BRO The Outenst Cadets or, The Fnlee Detective. ; AGS Arizona Joe; or, The Boy Pard of Texas Jack, ABT Nevada Ned, the Revolver Ranger 468% Neptune Ned, the Roy Conster; or, Pirate In Spite. A462 The Sailor Boy Wanderer; or. The Born Guide. 446 Waphazard Marry s or, The Sea ren pemtaes BOR The Red Clasped Hands; or, The Boy Lieutenant, BST Warpath Will, the Traitor Guide. B88 The Indian Pilot; or, The Search for Pirate Island Ronodel, the Bey Rovers or, The Flagless Schooner. Billy Blue-Fyes, of the Rio Grande. © Bar tain, 287 Lone Star. the Cowboy C : Crimaon Kate, the Girl Trailer: or, The Corey Triump Texas ve Ybor nna Rider. “4 ba ii 2 116 The Muassar Captain: or, The Hermit of Hell Gate. 111 The Sen-PPevils or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 102 Wieck Nead-Eye, the Smuggier; or, The Cruise of the Vixe 75 The Boy Daellsts or, The Cruine of the Sea-Woll, 62 The Shadow Ships or, The Rival Lieutenants. 24 IMamend Dirk; or, The Mystery ofthe Yellowstone, 17 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccanver; or, The Fugitive Yacht, @ The Flying Yankees or, The Ocean Outcast, BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon. Wm, F. Cody). 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairie, AL bb ibendly-Fye, the Unknown Scout; or, The Banded Brotherhood 68 Border Robin Hood ¢ or, The Prairie Rover. iaaiade Sar 158 Faney rank of Colorade; or, The Trapper’s Trust. LATEST AND NEWISSUES. Ww Ay ae Cowdrick, 827 The Bentam Sport; or, The Miner-Boss Ferret, By C, Harb: b aves Jr.'s. Seoop. By Ed. L. Wheeler R2R Deadwood Dick | S29 The Gentleman Crook in Chicago or, Dick Doom sso Thee Hunt, By Col. “ ioe Grim Lodge All or, ws of Number Seven, y Ben. Dd. Malin 2 . A New Issue Every Tuesday. { ‘alf- Dime Library {8 for asle by all newsdealers, fi Gt hag or sent by mail Ph nl co of fore each. ; i BEADLE, Willam Berect, New Yorks.