Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 855) (1893 12 12)

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1 a sn SS ETS : a Hi} it} { f >» a Ss | , / he TODDLES, THE TRAMP, IN. CLOVER, A Story of Good-for-Nothing Jerry, the Ex-Bootblack, BY JO PIERCE, CHAPTER I. DRIVEN OUT. JERRY knew there was trouble ahead the moment he entered the room, and saw the flushed face of Uncle Ben, the rigid lips of Aunt Sue, and Tom's surly scowl, All this did not alarm Jerry, He had become accus- tomed to trouble. _The streets of New York, in which he had to fight a daily battie for bread, were kind in comparison with the trio he had to meet when he THE GAMIN STOOD BRACED FOR THE ‘TTACK, DETERMINED NOT TO YIELD returned to the miserable room on West Broadway. ‘ Jerry calmly awaited the storm, It was not long WITHOUT A 8.RUGGLE,

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in coming. Uncle Ben, Aunt Sueand Tom alike glared at him, and their deep-drawn respiration sent the odor of whisky out into the room very perceptibly—for, if the truth be told, all three et been drinking and were ine q 1arrelsome mood, When Uncle Ben was ready to act as spokes- man, he did so with severity. y Jerry,” he remarked, ‘* you've got ter go!” “ Go where?” Jerry stolidly replied. ‘You can go ter Halifax, ef yer see fit, but you're ter Jeave this shebang !” ‘*T kin sleep on the stairs,” ; ‘* You won’t sleep on the stairs! You're ter leave this house, at once an’ forever, an’ never come back!” Jerry’s eyes opened widely in surprise, **Thut so?’ “That’s so! _Want me ter tell ye ag’in? Fact is, we won’t hey you. around no longer; you don’t earn yer selt, an’ ain’t worth yer keep,” t ‘* Hverybody calls him Good-for-Nothing Jer- ry!’ declared Aunt Sue, in vixenish lament, ‘* Fle’s lazy as sin!” affirmed Tom. ‘* An’ ungrateful!” “t An? deceitful!” *t An’ weak-minded! ** An’, mebbe, a thief!” ** 4n’ utterly good fur nothin’!” One after another the amiable trio made their statemen’s in regard to Jerry, but he heard the whole with phlegmatic unconcern. Every day for weeks, months and years he had heard the samo complaints, and had become ac- customed tothem, There had been a time when he was whipped nearly every night, but he had rebelled on the latest occasion, and with such marked success that the experiment had not been repeated, He made no answer to the last series of com- plaints, so Uncle Ben sharply added: ‘*Do you hear, vagabond?” ‘*T reckon,” Jerry indifferently replied. ‘* We're goin’ ter cast you off.” “ All right,” returned Jerry, without percep- tible evidence of interest. - ‘* You must leave here ter-night.” ‘© All right.” : ‘* An’ never come back,” Ail right.” '' Goat once!” ‘* All right,” Unele Ben had become enraged by this con- ‘tinued indifference, and had stamped his foot ungrily on the floor, butif Jerry had been a mere machine he would not have answered with less evidence of concern, Nevertheless, it was an occasion and a crisis which would have moved any one of different temperament. Ever since he could remember be had been in charge of Uncle Ben and Aunt Sue, and at last he was set adrift without being allowed any time for preparation. ; Really, this was a minor matter, as far as packing was concerned, for Jerry’s worldly goods could be carried with him; but he had no other place in view where,he could find shelter, cr money with which to pay for accommoda- tions, All this failed to move him, and he arose and went to a hole in the wall of the miserableroom. Then he turned around with more expression on his face. ‘*Whar’s my blackin’-brush an’ box!” he asked, ' ‘* Bind ’em ef you kin!” retorted Aunt Sue, with a mixture of triumph and venom, Tom burst into a loud laugh. ‘* Shine ’em up?” he inquired, derisively. ‘*Whar’ve you put my things?” Jerry con- tinued. ‘* Tn the fire!” “Aber. ‘* Tn the fire!” There was a pause. Having made this an- nouncement, Aunt Sue put her arms akimbo and looked at the 5 Mati a sneering smile. Jerry was touched, at , and there was some- bo nin8 very much like consternation in his ex- ression, pr You don’t mean it!” he finally rt pe age J gs all declared vey eee: * ik ye, erry , you’ve run the length o’ yer rope. Fur Sane day back you've had fair warnin’ what would happen ef you kept on in yer ways, but the money you brung us has been growin 4 less an’ less; you’ve got so lazy that I reckon | e ace fies where he had lived with a family in great pov- bate ‘They had died when he was very young, (| an you don’t brush off from yer nose when - nothin’, ey, ng Ena yee good fur _ You've got s0 ye won't work—" ain't T worked 48 much as Uncle Ben an’ . 2 ed err wu 2 ‘ _ “Me work?” snarled Uncle Ben. “ Me work? | threatened, Jerry Rint Good-for-Not ss. SS eee eres —— hing Jerry. Tl hev ye understand that I don’t work. Ima gentleman!” Never was a term more inappropriately ap- plied. Uncle Ben was ragged, dirty, unshaven and unsborn, vicious and ignorant; and he was a habitual drunkard. ‘* Nor I don’t work,” added Tom. ** T do, an’ | want my brush an’ box,” *€ You can’t hey ’em,” returned Sue, ‘‘ Why? Cause they’rein ashes. You thankless reptyle, go out an’ starve ef you want ter; we won’t hev no lazy-bones’round us. This is a bee-hive, an’ no drones can’t stay, Folks always said you was good for nothin’, but, as long as you brung us in a little money, we give you food an? shel- ter an’ a good home. Now we're done with you, an’ you kin git out. As for:the brush an’ box, they’re burnt, an’ you couldn’t hev them nohow, They was ours.” ** My mouwey bought ’em.” ‘Our money, you mean,” ‘* Who earned it?” ** Who give you food an’ shelter?” Jerry did not answer. For three years he had been the sole support of the miserable fam- ily, but he well knew that it would be idle to argue with them, He went tothe stove, There he saw a mass not yet wholly consumed, and he could trace the shape of his box and brush. Aunt Sue had told the truth; they were in the fire, and hopelessly ruined. He turned toward the trio, They had always hated him, even while receiving their support at his hands, and he was not surprised to see them grinning and exulting over his situation, now; but he was stirred out of the sluggish sto- lidity which their long persecutions hed made bis second nature. To be set adrift did not then impress him as being anything more important than it would be to be sent for a loaf of bread, but to be de- rived of his blacking-brush and box was a rdship of no small moment, ‘*-You’ve done a mean thing!” Jerry declared, in a voice unsteady with anger. ‘** Help yerself ef ye can!” retort&l Aunt Sue. **T don’t object ter leave, but why sheuld you burn them?” ** Now you've got too lazy ter work, you don’t go away an’ use our personal property ter get your livin’.” = 1t was useless for Jerry to remind them again that he had earned the money with which the brush and box were purchased ; he did not waste breath in so doing. “Pll pay you back, ef I ever get a chance!” he asserted, warmly. “ce Eb Yu ‘* Tt was merlicious mischief, an’ you know it, You did it ter satisfy the unbounded meanness that is in ye, av’ ter hit me when I’m down, Bat I don’t care; I won't stay down, an’ I'l] pay you off, some time!” Tom Jones arose, doubled up his fists and squared away like a pugilist, P ‘*No threats, here!” he blustered. ‘‘ You hush up, or V’ll punch the nose off from ye!” »** Touch me, ef you dare!” Jerry was several years younger than Tom, and, in height, several inches shorter, but he held the big vagabond in noawe, He flashed the retort at his enemy With spirit, but Tom’ still seemed inclined to fight with hig mouth. _, ‘* No imperdence, or I'll do it!” he threatened, ** Come on!” Tom turned to his father. “Say, shall 1 send fur a policeman?” he ‘* No, but ye might bring in some whisky,” re- sponded Uncle Ben, whose eyes were fast closing in the sleep of a drunkard, Tom had weakened, and, being no longer did not aspire to remain, Without another word he turned and walked out of the miserable, ill-kept room. He went with no worldly possession save the ragged gar- ments on his back, and without money, as home- less as the wandering dogs of the street. j CHAPTER II, THE GOOD GENIUS OF ATTIO TEN. JERRY HiGGs was the child of misfortune. If he had other parents, he wasnot aware of the fact; he had never known a relative, near or distant. He had grown up in New York like the weeds of the field, as uncared-for, and sim- ply because Nature willed it so. earliest recollections pointed to a house he had no meansof knowing how hechanced to be with them, As their name had been Rogers, and his was Higgs, he had no reason to” think that they had been relatives. They had never beer unkind, as far as h@ cou d Femem ber, but they had been totally indifferent to him—so much so that, as a mere infant, almost, he had occasionally crawled into a box in a neighboring alley, and slept there all night un- sought-for by them. When they died, he fell into the hands of Uncle Ben Jones and his wife, After that, the boy’s life was one of hardship and abuse, Kor several years he had supported the family with his brush. The greater part of his earn- ings went to buy whisky and beer; some was used to procure bread ; but only the merest trifle went to the laborer himself, His reputation was not good, Fortunately, no cone had ever charged him with crime or vicious ways—though these things were not regarded with severity by the major- ity of the neighbors, Jerry’s spirit was crushed. Abuse, want, neglect and kindred evils had made him old be- | fore his time, in mental respects, and, while other children played. he passed his leisure hours in silence and stolid inactivity. The sobriquet of “ Good-for-Nuthing Jerry’ had been applied as him, and, once started, it clung to him likea urr, Those who thus branded him with words did not stop to ask what had made him as he was, or experiment to see if there was that within his nature where the seeds of other ways might find root. The football of fortune remained uncared for and without encouragement—except from one quarter. His only friends were as poor and humble as bimself. Having left Uncle Ben’s premises, Jerry walked out to the street. He stood on the side-; walk, his hands in his pockets, looking straight ahead. His expression was stolid, but, never- theless, he was doing some thinking. W here should he go? He was homeless in New York! A million personsywere his neighbors, but he had no home in which to sleep, nor any table at which to eat. Henoticed that not a lingeringray of sunlight was to be seen; night was near at hand. \ **Mebbe I kin find a box tersleep in!” bhemut- tered, ‘‘an’ 1 needn’t eat anything afore noon.” He found sume comfort in this view of the future. He was studying the situation as calm- ly as thous he bad no personal interest. No feeling of homesickness, grief or doubt assailed him; he was as phlegmatic as when, having earned some money by shining boots, he surren- dered it to Uncle Ben without a protest. ‘*T’ll go an’ see Bess,” the boy finally added. He walked a few steps down the street and en- tered another house. It was tall, wide and deep, but in a condition of extreme old age and debility, as it were. Jerry went to the top floor. This was divided into a long hall, with rooms on each side. Some person, in the past had gone the length of the halland numbered each door witk big, black, awkward figures. : rom Jerry knocked at No, 10, : It wasanswered promptly, and a girl of about his own age appeared—a small, active, bright- eyed, intelligent-looking child, She was not b= ut hers was a very interesting face, “Ob! it’s you, Jerry!” she exclaimed, her face growing even brighter. ‘* Yes, it’s me,” he agreed, apathetically. “Come rightin! Father's away,and real glad to see you!” She hustled about with housewifely solicitude, and with the agility of a child combined with Latch thd of maturer years, and soon had him sea e . 1 Evidently she wasa precocious child, and, also, circumstances had been a severe teacher for her. The room bore evidences of extreme pov- erty, but was neat to an extreme. The latter fact was due wholly to her, for she and her fa- ther were its only occupants, ‘* Business good to-day?” Bess asked, briskly. _ “ Toler’ble.” j ' ““The high-toned folks do have to get a shine,” f ** Yes.” ‘* You and I don’t need any.” Jerry looked down at his bare feet. ‘“* They’re bout black enough ter be improved by a shine,” he observed, dubiously. ‘1 forgot ter wash ’em afore I came, Bess.” 4 ‘*Never mind, Jerry; you’ll be in another business, some day, and wear patent-leathers.” _ **Mebbe. I’ve quit Uncle Ben’s!” “You've what?” His statement was phlegmatic; her question was one of surprise, ‘Dye left thar.” FRE ca “Left there—for good?”

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ON, TAR >. Good-for-Nothing Jerry. ee Yes,” *‘ What are you going to do now?” ** Dunno.” **T don’t understind.” ‘*T’'ve got all done at Uncle Ben’s, an’ ain’t go- in’ thure no more,” * Why not?” ** Got tired of °em.” ** And you’re going to leave?” i C8." ** But you're going to keep on ** Dunno!” ‘‘ Jerry, you are not dealing squarely with me; you don’t look at mo, but at the floor, shining skoes?” That isn’t right; I want you to speak right | out!” Her manner was one of mingled reproof and authority. It was not the first time she had ad- dressed him thus. Her nature differed yreatly from his. He was apathetic; she was bright, hopeful and resolute, She was ambitious, and fullof plans and resources, Jerry’s acquaint- ance with her had been the one bright oasis in pepeaiyy eA life, and she had great influence up: onhim, When with her, hes*emed to bo lifted above his wretched Int, Although a little the younger, she had taken the lead by force of cir- cumstances, and to his satisfaction, and was his guide and teacher, Her reproof was as effective as usual, ‘‘ Fact is,” he confessed, ‘‘ I’ve been ordered away from Jones's.” ae Why?” ‘They say I’m good for nothin’.” Bess’s eyes opened widely. ‘* But you’ve been supporting them, wholly.” *¢ Yes.” ‘‘Then why should they cast you off?” ** Dunno!” : Bess was silent fora moment, She knew that Jerry was still keeping something back, and she was cudgeling her wise little head to solve the mystery, Suddenly her eyes sparkled. ** Jerry,” she cried, ‘‘ wasit because you didn’t give them enough money ?” The boy tried bravely to give a negative re- ply, but he was not aoe to the task of telling a falsehood to her. is confused silence an- swered her, ** And you’ve been giving your money to us!” she exclaimed, in dismay. The secret was out. Bess and her father were desperately poor, and Jerry had been bestowing a share of his earnings upon them for some time —as a loan, it was understood, though no one except Bess ever axpected to see the debt aid, 5 All this was in the way of legitimate business. The Jones parasites had complained long and loudly when the money handed over by their boy supporter began to fall off, without suspect- ing the cause of the decrease, But, as every cent was Jerry’s, in the full sense of the word, he bad a perfect right to give it to whom he pleased. Bess had felt misgivings in the past, but he had reassured her, Now the blow had come, ‘“‘°Tain’t nothin’!” stolidly affirmed Jerry. ‘* But you’ve lost your home for us!” 4 do more’n that for vou, Bess!” the Foot- ball of Fortune cried, flashing’ out of his apatby, ‘** But what will you do now?” **Dunno!” ‘*Tt’s very odd they sent you away when you were supporting them wholly. How will they live now? They don’t work, and they won’t work, Why should they send away their sole means of support?” Jerry wished to say ‘‘Dunno!” again, but there were times when Bess reproved him for using the word. Her nature was too brisk to take kindly to the idea expressed by ‘‘ Don’t know!” Fearing a reproof, Jerry remained silent, ** There’s a mystery here!” declared the girl. ** Where?” “ Why, those wretches had a reason for send- ing Bi away. You're not a lost prince, are ou? : Jerry bad nothihg romantic in his nature, a ae lost down-town one day,” he gravely replied, , ‘*You can depend upon it they made more by sending you away than they were making by keepi ng you!” The boy gazed at the speaker in open-eyed wonder, thoroughly aroused. So was Bess, Her eyes gleamed; her cheeks flushed, and she was eager in the pursuit of the idea she had formed. Sho believed there was a deep mystery in tho case, CHAPTER III. ‘‘yoU ARE MY PRISONER!” Goop-FOR-NOTHING JERRY gradually grew grave und shook his head, ‘**Pain’t possible!” he decided. ‘*\ hy not?” Bess inquired, ‘*Tfow could they make anything by lettin’ me go?” ‘* Somebody that’s rich pays them; you’re the son of mich parents, and were cheated out of your rights. Now, your enemies want to get rid cf you so that the lawyer can’t find you, and take your money away from your unjust rela- tives!” I¢ Jerry was stolid, he also had an abundance of common seuse when occasion demanded, and it was of the practical kind. ‘* You're the best person I ever knowed, Bess,” he certified, ‘‘but you’re on the wrong track, now, Me,tbheson ot rich folks? It don’t wash! I ain’t built that way!” ‘* Jeremiah, ycu’re talking slang!” ‘‘T forgot,’ enswercd Jeremiah, meekly. ‘‘ Parthermore, you opposed me when I said you were the sonof rich fulks—you denied it!” The reproef was too much for Jerry Higgs. ‘* Mebbe I be sech a chap,” he admitted, and would have acknowledged being the Prince of Wales, had Bess insisted upon it, But Bess, with all her imaginative zral, was not able to surmise just what great fortune be had been wronged ont of, or how he was to get it, thongh the case was thoroughly discussed. Bess’s surname was Gray, aud she wes the daugbter of Anthony Gray. The Jatter gentie- man now somewhat advaneed in years, was ex- tremely eccentric, and, by common consent, the neighbors called him ‘*‘ Mr, Jumbletop.” This implied a doubt as to his sanity, but it did not trouble him in the least—though the same could not be said of Bess. Among Anthony Gray’s many eccentricities was oné which was to be seen in the attic at all times, In one corner of the room was the old gentle- man’s bed, and, close beside it, back against the wall, was a cootrivance which, 1u plain terms, was a cylindrical piece of wood—a portion of a log—four feet long and a foot, or more, in dia- meter, This had four small sticks set into it at regular intervals, for supports, or legs, so that the whole concern was a sort of bench about as high as a chair, ; Upon the bench was strapped a saddle—just the same kind of a saddle, and strapped in the same way with a girth, as though it rested up- on a real horse instead of a wooden dummy. This wus all that was visible when Anthony Gray wasabsent. When present, he usually sat astride of the saddle, exactly as though riding a horse, ' He was supposed to sit there all the time, but this was a delusion of the neighbors, Age was telling upon him, and be was glad to seek an easier position, frequently, but it was a fact that, when any one was present, he was to be found sitting on the saddle, holding his stout cane, If calle wpon to describe Mr. Gray, these same neizhbcurs would have said: ‘Crazy asa March hare, but perfectly barm- less, and a real gentleman. Too old and feeble- minded to do any work, he sits ou that saddle day after day and year after year. Why he does it nobody knows, except himself, and he won't tell. Poor Mr, Jumbletop! his mind is a wreck, but you can’t find a better man any- where than the tenant of Attic Ten!” Ten, it will be remembered, was the number of Mr, Gray’s room, and al! the rooms on the top floor were familiarly known as ‘‘ attics.” rhe boys of the big tenement-house cailed the old gentleman ‘‘The Saddle-Rider,” but even they liked him. Eccentric as Gray was, he had many friends and no enemies. Bess knew no better than anybody else why her fatber had the saddle, or why he sat upon it, but she did know one fact that was not so plain to others, Mr, Jumbietop regarded the saddle as some- thing valuable beyond price. He was not only very careful of it, but was always in great fear lest it be stolen. He watched it jealously, and when he retired for the night one end of a cord was tied to the saddle and the other to his wrist, It annoyed him to have any one except Bess g near the saddle, and the curiousgazeof a neigh- bor, if directed to it, filled him with nervous apprehension. There had beena time when Bess sus that the old saddle might contain hoarded money, but, when they grew poorer and found it hard to get the necessaries of life, his earnest 3 | assertion that not.a dollar was hidden there caused her to abandon the theory. After that she thought, at times, that the whole macter was due to his eccentricity, only to have some later incident convince her that there uas some great value that attached to the saddle. ‘ne whole affair was a mystery. Jerry and Bessremained in conversation for sometime, She was grieved and worried, for, whatever was the real reason of Uncie Ben's severity toward Jerry, tie ostensible cause of the latter’s banishment was the decrease in the sum given Jones, and this falling off had been dua to the *‘loans” made by Jerry to the Grays, Mr. Jumbletop bad been a maker of fancy baskets. Of late his cunning had abou’ failed him, and nearly all the work was done by Bess; but there had not been demand enough to keep her nimble fingers busy for some time past. This had made them short of money, and Jerry had insisted upon loanivg them enough to ‘keep the wolf from the door,” A knock interrupted the young couple, and Bess hastened to answer it. A young lady and gentleman stood in the hall. ‘* Excuse me,” said the latter, politely, ‘* but does Mr. Jumbletop live bere?” ‘* Mr, Atithony Gray lives here,” Bess replied, with dignity arising from resentment, ‘*Tsn’t this Number LO?” ‘* Yes, sir.” ~! was told that Mr. Jumbletop lived at that lace. ‘*He does, but my father’s name is Gray. Ouly the ignorant and ill-mannered call him ‘ Jumbletop.’” ‘*T beg your pardon, young lady; I meant no offense, but used the name as it was given me, The reply was courteous and pleasant, and- Bess’s face assumed its usual sunny expression, ‘You are quite excusable, sir; pray don’t mentionit,” shereturned, with her womanly air, ** And is Mr. Gray in?” . ‘No, sir; but I expect him every minute, Will you walk in?” The young man glanced at the young lady, who promptly answered: ‘* Thank you, my dear, we will. We wish to seo your father particularly.” They entered. There was a scarcity of chairs, but CGood-for-Nothing Jerry retreated to the saddle and sat down there, which left accommo- dation for all, Bess looked to the wants of the visitors with care and diginity worthy of a head far older, and, unknown to her, at once won the heart of the young lady, Her ways were quaint and interesting in the extreme, The visitors made an impression equally good. As bas been said, both were young, The lady looked to be about twenty ; the gentleman wasa few years her senior. Both were well and fashionably dressed, and appeared to be blessed with abundant common sense,” ‘¢- Your father isthe basket-maker?” the young lady questioned. ‘“Yes, ma’am,” Bess replied, ‘‘Do you help him?” ‘*Oht yes,” ‘¢ 13 this your brother?” ‘¢ Wo, ma'am; he’s Jerry Biggs.” ** Does he make baskets?” ‘*No; he is a—” Bess hesitated, but Jerry, who felt stirred out of his apathy, plainly replied: ‘*T shine shoes!” ‘*Indeed! I'll give you a job, if your outfitis here,” the gentleman said. ‘¢?Tain’t here,” Jerry felt a twinge of pain as he remembered that his means of earning a living were in Aunt Sue’s fire, If he had them he might earn enough to get sleeping accommodation in a Bowery ten-cent lodging-house, As it was, he had no aes whatever in which to sleep. The Grays ad but one room. ‘“My name,” resumed the young Tovella Henderson, Have you hea mention me, recently?” ‘* No, ma’am.” **T met him.” ‘* He didn’t mention it.” ‘Jt was a very annoying affair to me,” Tovella pursued, and her manner corrobora her statement, ‘ There is a certain man from whom | differ greatly on peculiar business mat- ters, and, as a result, he feels very bitter toward — me, On tbe occasion to which I refer, he made an unjust accusation against me, much to my embarrassment, and I only met him with the aid of Mr. Jumbletop—excuse me! but that was the name he then gave. II offered him are~ ward, buthe would not take it.” lady, ** is Mr, Gray

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S. —_——— Good-for-Nothing Jerry. Bess looked grave. She was not surprised, but she did not see how her father could afford to rs) use any honest reward, ‘“* My enemy,” added Miss Henderson, ‘‘ is now trying to make more trouble for me. think it is because your father is not at hand to prove my innocence, but, fortunately, I had his address,” She glanced at the cardin her hand. It bore bc : own name, with an irreguiarly-written line below: ‘A, Jumbletop, No. ——, West Broadway, Attic 10.”" No wonder that they had not inquired for a Mr, Gray, with such a guiae in Anthony’s own writing. ‘* My father has not mentioned it, but I hope he can help you. He will, too, gladly, if—he can,” (sbe checked herself as she was about to add: *¢}? he ramembers the occurrence,” The Saddle-Rider’s memory was often treach- erous, ‘“T hope he can, for a good deal is at stake, and—I actually fear arrest!” ‘¢ Arrest!” ‘Yes, though it would be cruel and unde- served,” Iovella nervously explained. Jerry felt that the chance had come for him to obcy Beee’s frequently-repeated_ injunctions, and i out of his apathy. He stood up prompily. sar li¢ they touches you, Ill thrash them!” he declared, stoutly. Ha astonished the visitors, Bess and himself, oneandall. It was a rare thing for his down- trodden nature to assert itself, but he felt new life in his veins, and a feverish desire to risk that life for Iovella. Tho gentleman clapped his hands, “ Bravo!” he cried. ‘‘Here is an_ honest champion whom we must not overlook,” Before more could be said there was another knock et the door, Besgopenedit, and saw a respectably-dressed, but be 89) geen” PS ik ing man there, He pushed past her without a word, and swept a glance around the room, regard became fixed upon Iovella, ‘* Tm a detective,’ he announced, with a dis- agreeable smile, ‘‘ and have a warrant for your arrest. You are my prisoner!” CHAPTER IV. JERPY HEARS OF THE FAMILY FEUD. THERE wasa brief silence in Attic 10, but it ‘was by no means one of comnopplnce nature. The detective stcod in unfeeling triumph; Io- vella and her escort were dumb with dismay; while Jerry and Bess looked on in wonder. Tovella’s companion was the first to recover the power of speech, “\Vho ave you?” he demanded, indignantly. ‘* As before stated, Iam a detective, I have the advantage of you as to_ names; I know ours, Mr, Brinsley Choate. My legal name is ses a humble one—Jobn Joy, at your service.” *¢ And your business here—” *¢ Is to arrest ber!” Joy pointed to Tovella, ‘¢ Prove that you area detective!”commanded Brinsley Choate, J oy exposed his badge. ‘¢ And now, your warrant!” The detective produced the paper, which Choate examined close y. ‘€ Can you deny its correctness?” **1 cannot!” Choate admitted, ** Then I will at once take Miss Iovella Hen- derson away as my prisoner!” Good-for-Nothing Jerry confronted the detec- tive with flashing eyes. Don't yer try it!” he cried. ce Bh?” ** Don’t yer touch her!” *¢ Why not?” ** Because, ef you do, I’ll knock you down!” The de*sctive gazed at the boy in silence, He was too much surprised to speak, There was nothing like idle braggadocio in the boy's man- ner; no ridiculous desire to *‘ show off,” such as afflicts some boys, at times; but Jerry was as much in earnest as though ke were a six-footer. Really, he was so small that Joy had to look far down to see him, ‘¢ Here's a bantam rooster!” ejaculated Joy. ‘* Touch the lady, an’ see!” "Go away, mosquito!” With this contemptuous retort the detective turned again to Iovella, ** Come with me!” he tersely added, Choate had been stuying the intruder closely, and had arrived at the conclusion that Mr. John Joy was an unprincipled rascal, He deter- mined to try an experiment based upon this be- lief. ‘Mr, Joy, I don’t suppose you make much out of this job, ‘En?’ The detective turned an attentive eye upon Choate, ‘No, I don’t,” he responded. “You ought to get something out of it.” * All folks are not generous!” ‘“‘Some, are/ Mr. Joy, here is a ten-dollar bank-note. If you will burn that warrant, give up your errand bere, and let us alone in the fu- ture, this ‘ X’ is yours!” The limb of the law rubbed his retreating chin gently. ‘* Justice should not be thwarted,” quoth he. “Do as I wish, and justice will not be thwarted.” ‘‘The law should not be thwarted—not for less than two ten-dollar bills,” ‘¢ Will that amount hire you to do as I wish?” ‘* Thavea daughter,” deposed John Joy, hold- ing one handover his heart. ‘'I am not deaf to the demands of mercy and pity. Convey the bank-notes to me, esteemed sir,and I'll burn the warrant, go away, throw my employer off the track, and never annoy you further!” The morey was handed over,and then Choate bad the pleasure of holding a match to the war- rant and seeing it fade away to ashes, ‘* Permit me, now,’ acded the detective, ‘*to wish you good day. Should you, Mr. Choate, require my services at auy time in the future, pray call upon me. You will find me zealous and faithful to your cause; a veritable blood- hound of the law, whom nothing can corrupt or make afraid. Worthy sir;and you, young lady; and you, voung miss; and you, pugilistic product of New York’s streets, good-day !” Speaking slowly, gravely, with every appear- ance of sincerity, and with divers low bows, Mr, John Joy went backward out of the room. When his steps ceased to be heard, Choate shrugged his shoulders, ‘¢] wish we had some disinfectant, to purify the air,” he remarked. ‘‘ A more unconscion- able knave never breathed the air; treachery is oe yoke-mate of greed in the conduct of his e. ‘¢ Have we seen the last of him?” Iovella asked, doubtfully, ‘¢ It’s the toss of a coin; I really don’t know.” ** He frightened me!” and Miss Henderson shivered, ‘¢ Plainly, something must be done, or Luther Henderson will bring serious trouble upon ou. ms What can we do?” ** Wait a little.” ‘Re you want any help, call on me!” volun- teered Jerry Higgs. “I'll work for yer, fight for yer, or do anything else!” us What would becomeof your bootblack busi- 7’ ¢ ‘‘ Nothin’, I’m out on it.” **T thought you said you shined shoes,” ‘“That’s my perfession,” Jerry explained, “but I ain’t follerin’ it jest now, owin’ ter sar- cumstances. I’m willin’ ter try my hand at = nie JN el he slowly added, ‘‘ pullin’ teeth. Iain’tno good at that, I reckon.” This statement was made with such gravity and candor, and so wide from the limits of an attempt at jocularity, that it proved very amusing to Choate and Iovella, At this point they were interrupted by the arrival of Mr. Gray. He was seventy years old in appearance, and less than sixty in reality, but ill-health had made him gray and weak beyond the average of men. He was commonly regarded as an old man, and really believed such to be the case himself, He hai an intelligent, kind face, but it was not one of power, Irresolution was perceptible in every distinguishing feature, and, also, was visible in his manner. He was dressed in a suit of black which had once been of good quality and style, but which had grown old-fashioned, faded and seedy. When he entered and saw that strangers were present he Jooked quickly toward the saddle, No one being near it, he became reassured at once, Bess hastened to introduce him. ‘Do you remember me, Mr. Gray?” Iovella then asked. **No, madam,” he replied, ‘* Have you forgotten the scene at the Chris- topher street ferry-house? I was the lady you helned.” ‘¢-Yes, yes; T remember now,” ye have called with the hope that you can aid me. te 73"? “Yes, sir.” *¢ We are too poor to help even ourselves,” ‘* But you remember the circumstances?” ** Oh, yes.” ‘* Please describe the scene as you saw it.” . Mr. Gray immediately grew confused, ‘‘T don’t know asI can do it,” he acknowl- edged. “You can testify that my companion of that oceasion carelessly left his valise while he went. to purchase a book,” “Yes, yes.” “‘ And that I was sitting by your side and did not go near the valise while he was away ?” “Yes, yes.” ‘That willbe all that is sufficient, and you will stand between me and harm while you are able to affirm this.” ** T shall be pleased to help you, madam,” Mr. Gray replied, with courtly politeness, He then went to the saddle, toward which he had been casting wishful glances, and sat down astride of his peculiar seat, Bess would have been pieneee to see him take a tion more graceful at that particular, time, but she made no comments. Brinsley Choate had never heard of the Saddie-Rider’s eccentric habit, and. bis face expressed wonder. Tovella, however, went on rapidly: ‘In justice both to you and to myself, Mr. Gray, 1 wish to make the exact situation plain to you. Between my family, the Hendersons, and another family whose name is Reyburton, a bitter feud has long existed. I need not go in- to particulars to explain what started it, for my objectis merely to explain my own connec- tion with the affair, ‘* For some yearsthere have been no Hender- sons around here with the exception of myself anda certain Luther Henderson, who was my father’s cousin. ‘*My father, otherwise a very worthy man, was as bitter against the Reyburtons as any one, and I was reared with the idea constantly before me that the Reyburtons were all that was mean and evil, and that I must hate them accordingly. ‘¢As the original quarrel dated back fifty years, and was a minor affair, according to my opinion, I could not see why I should waste any breath in such a hatred, Accordingly, I was alwaysa very lukewarm partisan. ‘*T wo years ago, when I was nineteen, my father died. Luther Henderson was made m ardian, and I continued in his charge until wo months ago, when 1 became twenty-one, and fully my own mistress, “Since my association with Henderson he has given me no peace; he demanded of me the most bitter, illogical and unceasing hatred of the Rey burtons that human power could give. ‘‘T never hesitated to give my own views, and as a result he frequently upbraided me, He was very suspicious, and often accused me of disloyalty to the family. He was terribly in earnest, and my oft-repeated expreasions of in- difference—I regret, now, that I ever uttered them—finally caused him to hate me, too, and to hate in earnest. ‘Since I became my own mistress his enmity has known no bounds, Constantly afraid that 1 would dosomething to humblethe Hendersons in their fight—now one of words—with the Reyburtons, he has suspected me of that and many other things. “Tf there was anything he did not suspect me of I don’t know what it was. ‘¢ The final crash came a few days ago. ‘¢ Henderson held the deed of certain vera in Newark. He learned by chance that the agent who had purchased for bim had forgotten to have the paret recorded. Then he became in a panic to have the neglect repaired, ‘*Westill kept upa kind of cold, formal ac- quaintance, and as I was going to Newark also, we became companions on the trip, starting for our destination by way of Hoboken. ‘¢ At the Christopher street ferry-house Lu- ther Henderson left his valise momentarily, with the deed init. Whben he remembered his carelessness he returned in haste and looked in the valise. *¢ The document was gone! “You know, Mr. Gray, what followed. He accused me of stealing it, and. had you not been able to assert that I had not been near the valise, trouble would have followed. The er- rand of Joy proves that he isstill trying to get me into cient ‘¢ All this, I firmly believe, is the result of a deep plot which Henderson has formed against me,

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Good-for-Nothing Jerry. 5 CHAPTER V. THE VAGABOND IN THE BOX, IovELLA finished her story, and there was a idtgs silence, It was broken by Good-for-Noth- ing Jerry. “By. eminy | I'd jest like ter deal with that mean critter!” he declared, forcibly. Bess looked at her young friend in wonder. Once again, on this eventful day, he had assert- ed himself with strength which was very for- si 71 to his apathetic nature. t was a good sign, and so Bess regarded it, Tovella smiled faintly. ‘Pray, what would you do with Luther Hen- derson?” she asked, ‘Hf he touched you, I’d thrash him!” declared Jerry, his eyes flashing, ‘* You are very kind,’ “You're good !” asserted young Higgs, ‘‘ an’ I'd thrash anybody who'd touch yer!” Brinsley Choate had been regarding the Foot- ball of Fortune earnestly ever since the first explosive remark that followed Tovelia’s story. ** My lad,” he now said, ‘‘ did I understand you to say that you were out of work?” ** That’s the fack.” “What are you going to do now?” **Dunno!” ** Would you like a situation?” ** What’s that?” ‘He mean’s a job, Jerry,” Bess explained. *““Oh! Wal, lve got ter hev a job.” ~. a you live here?” “é oO. ? ‘* Have you parents?” iT No.” ‘*T presume your guardians and recent em- ployers would give you a good character?” Bess’s face had grown bright and hopeful, but it grew grave as she heard tho last words, If he had to rely on the Jones tribe for a good character, he would never getany. Jerry had built no air-castles when Choate began, and the course of the inquiry gave him no concern, He answered in a very matter.of-fact way: “Ef anybody takes me, they must take mo ez they find me; I’ve got ter stan’*on my own legs.’ % Pu be his recommend, and so will papa!” eagerly asserted Bess, “ Well, we will see,” Choate promised. ‘‘It is growing dark, and*we must be going, but I want to see you again, Jerry. Perhaps I shall be able to help you. Will you call on me, to- morrow é Yes.” ‘‘Then come to the address on this card.” He extended the bit of pasteboard, which Bess quickly seized and carried to Jerry, Iovella arose, und, atter getting Mr. Gray’s assurance that he weuld give testimony in her behalf whenever it might become necessary, she and Choate left Attic 10 and went their way. ** Ain’t they splendid?” Bess cried, with en- thusiasm. ‘* Boss!” Jerry agreed. ‘*T don’t hke them,” declared Anthony Gray, ‘Why not, father?” “They kept looking curiously "—a pause— “at me and—and”—a longer pause—‘‘my seat here.” ; The old gentleman's face expressed the fear which he would not have admitted in words. He was mild and gentle of nature, but it pieee stirred him up to have any ono even iook at the old saddle, Once, when a would-be jolly neigh- bor had insisted upon sitting down on the saddle, himself Jumbletop had horrified his daughter by seizing a broom as a weapon and threatening the person with assault, Now he was suspicious and troubled, but ina subdued way. ‘‘ Probably they never saw such a seat in a room before; they meant no harm,” Bess an- swered, soothingly. _ ‘«They were very ill-mannered to show such uncalled-for curiosity,” irritably asserted the Saddle-Rider. «Pm goin’! Jerry suddenly announced, “ Back to the Joneses?” ** Not much!” ‘* Where?” s Ob, I'll spend the night with a friend o’ mine. The Football of Fortune spoke mie as if it were the most commonplace affair in the world, but it remained a fact that he had no friend to whom he could apply. A box or a barrel was the only shelter he could expect that night, unless he could carn a few cents before ‘the timeof retiring, He would have eng at once, for it was grow- ing dark rapidly, but Bess urged him to remain net he could not refuse, The womanly young girl saw that Jerry was making progress. Several times during the Jate interview he had asserted himself and cast off his apathy most decidedly. Bess was delight- ed. She knéw that his stolidity was not natu- ral, but the result of long-continued abuse and neglect, and she had labored hard in the past to effect a cure, The result had been that his mood would flicker like a candle; be would rise momentarily to lightness of spirit, only to sink into the old rut immediately after. Bess now hoped for better things. Jerry remained at Attic 10 until nearly nine o'clock, Then he went away with a careless air, as though the occasion was unworthy of serious thought, but, once outside, he changed his ways, ‘Got ter skirmish fur a bunk,” he admitted. “Don’t keer ter roost on a door-step, fur the perleece would whack me over the feet with a, club, an’ I won’t go ter a station-house. Now, thar was some boxes down nigh the wharf yis- terday—ef them »in’t been took away, that’s my chance. l’llsee about it.” He was not long in reaching the place, and, once there, was pleased to find everything as it had been—a confused heap of both broken and intact boxes. If it had not been protected by its peculiar position, the fragments would long before bave been carried away for kindling- wood by those living near. To reach this haven of rest Jerry had both to avoid tho watchman on the wharf and to crawl through a small opening between other things, but he arrived thero at last. Selecting the largest box, he crawled in and settled down with a feeling of satisfaction, ‘* Ym fixed fur the night,an’ this ain’t so very bad!” ho muttered, aloud, ‘Right you are, my hearty!” Tbe words were. spoken near him, inside the box. He could see nothing, but 1t was clear that ho had a neigiibor in bis lodging-house, ‘*T think i.’s bully!” added the Unknown, ** Who be you?” Jerry inquired, curiously. ‘' Dm 'traveling agent for Street & Walker,” * Don’t know them.” “You will when you’ve walked the streets and road as long as I have—that’s who Street & Walker are, my hearty!” The invisible man chuckled as he spoke, ‘‘ Do you always live here?” asked Jerry, won- dering if he was an intruder, “ee No.” ‘‘ Do yer objeck ter me bein’ bere?” ‘‘Bless you, no! Ill be delighted to have company. Me object? Guess you can’t see me.” se can’t.” “Thought not. Me object? Say, ay hearty, I’m not clad in purple and fine linen, I’m forty years old, unshaven and unshorn, and my clothes are nothing but rags. My only virtue lies in the fact that I’m clean of person, if not of raiment.” ‘Then you're poor?” ‘‘ Poor?” chuckled the stranger, ‘‘ My hearty, I’m a wart on the face of nature; I’m Toddles, the Tramp—that’s my name,” ‘¢ Are you a real tramp?” “You bet! Want to join me?” “No, I don’t!” Jerry answered, jets ogee B **Good! Don’t you do it, my hearty. It’s a toothless chestnut to say that I come of a good family, but such is the fact, If I hadn’t been a vagabond, I’d have been tolerably rich, but I was a good-tor-nothing!” The words fell upon Jerry’s ears unpleasant- y. People said thathe was a good-for-nothing. ould he wind up by becoming a tramp? ‘* Never!” he thought. He was silent so long that Toddles continued: ‘** Hope you ain’t too proud to bunk with me?” “Not a bit!” declared Jerry. “I’m ran’ ragged, myself, an’ couldn’t afford ter be fas- tijj’us ef I wanted ter,” ‘* What's your name?” ‘* Jerry Higgs.” ‘‘Good name! Not so long as William Shake- speare, nor so musical as Toddles, but good for a aie purposes. What do you do for a living ‘* ve been a bootblack, but they burnt up my brush an’ box, an’ I ain’t doin’ nothin’, now.” ‘* Always lived in New York?” arents?” ‘No; I’m all alone,” ‘A city gamin!"muttered Toddles, sapeiney, “Say, my hearty, [ want to see you by day- light, when it comes. Maybe, I cam give you a lift. I’ve been a tramp for many a year—some- times a well-dressed, lucky, careless traveler but, of late, a run-down, ragged vagabond—but I'm going to get a moveon meand brace, I know a family secret which ought to fill my poms: and it shall when [ get at old Reybur- nm “Whom ** Keyburton,” ‘ve heard c’ him, He an’ the Hendersons quarriled,” ‘*The blazes they did!” exclaimed Toddles, sharply andsuspiciously, ‘‘Seehere, you young hound, are you a spy on me?” CHAPTER VI. AN ALARMING INTERRUPTION, THE tramp’s easy, jovial, friendly manner had given place to ove of severity and menace but Jerry did not feel frightened. He explained to Toddles that he had never seen one of the Reyburtons, and had merely met one of the female Hendersons casually, Toddles insisted upon having more infor- . mation, Jerry was not the person to tell.everything he knew, and he did not hesitate to abridge the account very decidedly, He explained that a certain Iovella Henderson had called upon a gentlaman whom he knew, and that he had heard mention made of the family quarrel with the Reyburtons, The tramp then asked many questions con- cerning lovella, How did she look? How did sheact? What did her disposition seem to be? Jerry answered as well as be could, and that ended the conversation, Toddles relapsed into silence, to meditate, and then foll asleep. His young companion was not long in follow- ing his example, but before he succumbed to slumber, he puzzled over four questions: Why bad the Jones family cast him off when he was their only means of support? Why was Anthony Gray 80 careful of the old saddle, and so alarmed when any one else ap- proached it? What was the trouble between the Hender- sons and the Reyburtons? What was the secret which Toddles claimed to possess in regard to the rival families? The boy fell asleep without getting any light, and rested peacefully in the big box, Truly, he was a football of fortune, Accustomed from his infancy to hardship, neglect and abuse, he was, at Jast, slumbering peacefully in that rude bed, side by side with a tramp. The surroundings did not affect his rest; he a soundly until morning, hen he awoke, Toddles was already sitting up in the big box. ‘““ Well, my hearty, how is it?’ the man asked, ‘* All correck.” ** Bed suit rot * Tt did wal enough,” ‘Good! I quite like your nerve, Now, the next thing is to consider breakfast, What's your capital?” **T ain’t got a cent!” “No? Bless me! you are hard up. Well, I’m not the man to let a bedfellow go hungry. I bave hed: a fifty-cent piece, and we'll have a square feed, Let’s crawl out and look for a hash-dispensary.” They left the box, managed to avoid the no- tice of those on the wharf, and reached the street. Then they visited a restaurant where low prices prevailed, and had a substantial breakfast. ‘*Now, my hearty,” Toddles observed, ‘I hope [ haven't seen the last of you. Shall we wire and sleep in the box again, to-night?” es ** All right; Pllleave you now.” Aad pay you fur this loan ter-night, ef I ** Nonsense! I don’t want a cent back.” ‘* But ’'m goin’ ter pay ye,” * Well, well, we will see, Now I’m off.” The tramp extended his hand, and Jerry took it without hesitation. He liked the tramp. Ragged Toddles was, and his hair and beard were in a shocking state, but his big blue eyes were bright and merry, and his expression thoroughiy good-bumored, He bad been a jolly, generous companion, free from the vicious ways of the average tramp, So Jerry bade him adieu with regret. Left alone, the boy was uncertain what to do, He wanted to earn some money, but how was he to do it? He wandered eastward until he came to Broadway, and then paused. oe men and busy boys were hurrying along, et ing som g, but Jerry was ont in the cold, The co Sipe“ Building reared its top high in the air, on the opposite side of the street,

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6 and, to Jerry, it appeared to stare at him in an unfeeling way, as though to say in pantomime: ‘¢- You have no place here; you are a good- for-nothing. Goaway!” He did not long give way to such gloomy thoughts, fur he bad too much real courage to be overwhelmed by his misfortunes, Remembering Brinsley Choate, he looked at the address on the young man’s card. It was Fourteenth street, near Seventh avenue. Choate had asked Jerry to call upon him, and the latter decided to do so at once. He had been offered assistance. If Choate would keep ; his promise to the extent of buying a bootblack’s a outfit, Jerry felt that he would be in clover, ; metaphorically speaking. Brisk walking brought him to tho desired lo- wee cality a little before eleven o’clock, ay Oncsa there he began to have some doubts. The block was oue which had once been the home of families rich and aristocratic. Nearly all of these had gone, and boarding-houses pre- ' dominated, but they were of a rather high- toned nature; the tall, brown-stone buildings were still imposing; an air of pompous respect- ability, if not of fashion, still clung to the fine locality, and Jerry had his doubts, Would a ragged boy be received there? ‘He tried the experiment and succeeded better " than be had dared to hope, After some skir- mishing his name was taken to Choate, who promptly ordered the servant to bring him in, The room was on the top fluor, but was big and comfortable, when reached. Choate was not alone; an elder! y gentleman, who some- ae resembled him, was seated in an easy- # chair. 4 Brinsley arose, shook bands with Jerry, asked See RR Oe UMN TA Ss AMM ITED ¥ if he was in a hurry, and, being assured that sch was not the case, asked him to sit down for a while, The elderly gentleman had been looking at the boy with manifest curiosity. “You're a strange fellow, Maurice!” he ob- served. ‘¢ Why so, sir?” Choate asked, f. "as ‘* Your tastes are abominable. You desert a ‘‘Remember that my family relatives are said to be eccentric, one and all!” laughed Brins- ey. ‘* Eccentric we may be, but not low in our tastes. My grandfather and my father were both peculiar, but proud and exclusive. People say that I am the same, and, certainly, the fam- ily honor is dear to me. You are not like the Rey ourtons!” ‘+ T trust, sir, that I have never dishonored my family.” “T hope not, though”—here the speaker’s manner grew stern—‘' I confess that I have had my doubts, Objectionable as this attic hobby is, and as your friends may be, I could forgive allthessif I were sure that you were thorough- ly loyal to the Reyburton family.” ‘Do you really doubt it?” , ““T knowthat you do not hate the Hendersons as you ought, and I have, at times, suspected you of a desire to heal the quarrel. Let me tell you, Maurice Reyburton, that I would not tol- eratethat! I would sooner see you dead, if you are my son. This is serious, and you know what the word of Thomas Rey burton is!” Sternly and severely spoke the man. gazed in astonishment. After all, it seemed that Choate’s real name was Reyburton, What _ did it mean? _** Nonsense!” exclaimed Brinsley, lightly. “Old Luther Henderson is as active as ever, and his young cousin, Iovella Henderson, is a fit ally. The girlis a wretched creature, She has somewhere met a low actor named Brinsley Choate, and finds him just equal to her taste, It is infamous, for her family, outrageously mean as ere e, have aristocratic blood.” _ rf Mr. Reyburton, junior, looked embarrassed. _ Tt was plain that bis father did not suspect that | he was Brinsley Choate, and the old gentleman - -wastr-ading on delicate ground, “Of cil the Hendersons,” Reyburton wenton, _. *T hold this Iovella the worst, She’s not bad- _ looking—[ve seen her—but she is all that is mean. Maurice, my son, hold fast to your hatred of the Hendersons! While that lovella tremendousenergy. nded at the door ousness of in | n! z to know of eT RE oO SAT ahaa as 4 vee : —_—_——$—$ $n luxurious home to live in the garret of a board- ing-house, and now I ascertain that you are a chum of—well, to be plain, of » ragamuffin!” «Well, why don’t you proceed?” sneered Rey- : | at_pale, troubled Iovella. cried, lightly, ‘‘have your wits gone wool- gathering? ere is the book you promised to send me?” a She stopped short, perceiving, for the first time, that Choate was not alone, but the mis- chief had been done. The name spoken by her, and her friendly, familiar manner, were alike a revelation. Thomas Reyburton arose and glared first at Tovella and then at his son, his face convulsed and pale with fury. ‘*T see how it is!” he cried, sibilantly, * you are the Brinsley Choate whom this wretched woman fancies! And you—may my curse rest upon you!—you have proved false to the family feud and made love to the daughter of our enemy! By heaven! there shall be a tragic settlement of this offense!” CHAPTER VII. THE DECREE OF A MAN OF IRON, It was a thrilling scene. Thomas Reyburton was almost maddened by his rage. His face was pallid; hiseyes gleamed unnaturally; and his whole frame shook with the violence of his emotions, jovella was the picture of dismay, while Maurice, who had also risen, was pale but de- termined. Jerry Higgs looked on in wonder and close attention, his sympathies all with his acquaint- nces, ‘¢ Mather,” answered Maurice, in a low but earnest voice, ‘‘do not let us have any ill-feel- ing here, I implore you.” **- You say this to me—you dare to say this!” hissed Thomas Reyburtcn. ** Believe me, sir, [ can explain—” “Can you explain how you have dared to make love toa Henderson? Can you explain your relations to this wretched woman? I have heard that she was associating with a low actor named Brinsley Choate, but had never seen him, I understand now wv hy you left your home for this garret, I can see thaf your pre- delections for the stage have led you to adopt the life secretly. Ican see that you have de- ceived me, made friends with a viper, and dis- graced the name of Reyburton, But can you oe what this woman is to you?” ‘he speaker had grown more violent as he proceeded until his voice arose shrilly. Iovella was at the point of weeping, but Maurice faced the dang-r with manly fortitude, ‘‘ Father,” he replied, temperately, ‘* do not condemn us unbeard. That I am acquainted with Miss Hendersonis already plain, Chance threw us together, butshe knew me first only as Brinsley Choate, and if any one is to blame itisI, I knew, of course, who she was, but I concealed my identity from her until she knew me well, Asfor—” ‘¢ Why is she in the same house with you?” l, ‘“‘Thig house is that of a friend of hers, I came here to lodge before I ever saw Miss Hen- derson, Sheis, and always bas been, a visitor f the house, That is why she is to the lady o here now.” Still, his voice remained steady and firm, but his head was thrown back proudly as he spoke the next words, ‘¢ As for Miss Henderson, herself, I am deep- ly grieved that you should meet with disap- pore ae knowing, as I do, how you regard I must say: If you knew Miss Henderson as intimately and as. er family; but, father, this truly as I do, you would change your opinion. She is a noble girl—” your op “ Mnough !” interrupted Thomas Reyburton, ‘‘] have listened patiently, but your explanation must be over when you begin to |. analyze her character, and seek to convince me that thesonis wiser than the father; that you harshly. know it all, while I am a driveling idiot.” “‘ Pardon me, father, but you have no rightor cause to assume that,” Maurice returned, in re- spectful protest. ‘‘ How dare you dispute me?” “T simply say that you ere mistaken, sir. You have applied a severe term ie rent, at respect bse have never failed to yieldt you that a son should give to his father.’ “Rubbish! But tkis is not to the point; empty words neither prove nor disprove a charge. In this case there is tangible proof, It is thera!” He pointed to Iovella, bitter hatred ¢: of his stern, “ ‘at > glanced b f ‘He loved her, and the affection wasreciproca } : \ ee Good-for-Nothing Jerry. every word, and in every varying expression Such being the case, he was prepared to defend her first, last and always, but he wishsd to make ace with his father, and felt that the task was 0 open . - am sorry to disappoint you, sir. **'No doubt.” " . ‘But, if you will only consent to become well acquainted with Miss Henderson—” ‘$7? retorted the elder man, and his stubborn gray hair appeared to bristle withrage. ‘‘ Never! I will die first!” “You are proceeding from a wrong point of view,” asserted Maurice, pride and firmness. asserting themselves within him the moment that Iovella was attacked. ‘‘ You have seen Miss Henderson in the past, but not enough to become acquainted : you neverexchangedtwenty words with her in your life, I know her well; I knew her well before she even suspected that I was a Reyburton, and I had a chance to learn that she was a noble girl. I ask your indul- gence, sir, until you hear me through,” “eé to on 1? Short and harsh was the reply; no one cou:d see any hope in Reyburton’s manner, Maurice felt that he had a good deal to say, but, somehow, his flow of speech was not equal to kis eager desires, ‘**T am awaro, father, that I went contrary to your teachings in this matter, but, when I first met Miss Henderson, she was wholly ignorant of my identity, masked by t’e name of Brinsley Choate. as it was; and I went into the acquaint- ance with curiosity to see what one of the con- demned Hendersons was like in private life.” ** Proceed!” ‘‘T have learned to honor her as a true wo- ‘man. And, sir, she has never borne ill-will to- ward our family. She has not believed in the. family quarrel; she has not considered the Rey- burtons any more than other men and women; avd has wished that the old feud might be buried.” Thus far Iovella had remained silent. At first sho-had been utterly overwhelmed with dismay, for Maurire’s sake, but desire to make peace between father and son had conquered every weakness, She now moved forward, “Mr, Reyburton,” she began, respectfully and persuasively, ‘‘ your son has spoken truly, I am _not in sympathy with the Henderson hatred of your family. The quarrel began long ago, and I, for one, have no wish to keep it. p— ' ‘* Why not?” ‘¢T see no good reason why I should hate your family, sir.” ‘¢ What did your father teach you?” $? He was governed by the old-time bitter- ness— ‘* Did he teach you to hate the Reyburtons?” “Yes, sir, but—” ‘“‘Then you are worthy of the respect of neither the Reyburtons nor the Hendersons!” and pronouncing this harsh verdict, the speaker’ turned to Maurice. ‘¢ Once more I ask you,” he added, ‘‘ what are. your relations with this woman?” The unceremonious rebuff of Tovella fired weThis lady, "he replied; proudly but t This lady,” he replied, proudly but temper- ately, ‘‘ is my rmrenainedd wile!” i ov Thomas Reyburton stood in silence, The vio- lence of his rage had exhausted itself, but his heart had not softened, and the signs of his bit- ter disappointment and enmity were not less marked to the gaze, His face had a strange eyes a glitter which was ominous and ming. ‘¢T suspected as much,” he answered, ‘‘ Now never toseeheragain!” . gett ‘*Father, I have always yielded you respect and obedience, but, in this matter, I cannot conform to your wishes, If you knew Miss “petal we keep up the feud our ancestors gan 9 ‘* It was my father who first felt the flendish ill-will of the Heudersons, J honor him, how- ever you may regard filial duty.” “ But time changes all things.” ‘*Tt does not change a true Reyburton’s re- gard for the family honor!” ‘* But Miss Henderson is not responsible for what her grandfather may have done.” ‘* T have heard rel, She may, or may not, have cere—” en I. spise you allthe more. It enough to bea teaderson but torenounce their . unpardonable!” sy cause is a sin gray pallor, and his. hear me: I command you to cast her off, and. Henderson well, you would not ask it. Why: her renounce the family quar- been sin- ‘* Twas sincere!” Iovella interrupted, eagerly. : % 1% ‘ See “- “ Eee,» Pat s are Pt So ee, in ows * t > ne ee See eT » == eal a 4. pad L-* os i ° - ad

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Before any one could find words to meet this - illogical argument, the speaker went on in an inexorable voice: ‘Por the last time, will you give up this wretched woman?” ‘* Pardon me, sir, but 1 cannot do it.” ** Bnough!” Thomas Reyburton turned, picked up his hat and walked to the door. Then he faced his son again. *“*T will give you three days of grace,” he continued. ‘*‘We are not always prepared to cast off evil at a moment’s warning, when . reasonable meditation may causé us to do so. If, atthe expiration of three days, you come to me and offer to abandon this madness forever, I will take you back as my son.” - He paused, and then his face grew hard as he unwaveringly resumed: ‘* Unless you do this, you and J are done for- ever. Never while I live will I -be a friend to the Hendersons; never will I tolerate acquaint- ance between their tribe and my honorable family!” ‘** But, father—” ‘‘Two paths lie before you, Maurice Rey- burton, If you go the one, you remain to me as you have been in the past; if you choose the other, youand I are strangers from this day. I will make a will which shall disinherit you forever, and my only marriage gift to you shall be my curse!” He moved backward another step. ‘* Yés,” he added, in a deep voice, “if you choose to keep this woman’s company, may my curse rest upon you both, forever!” And then he turned and left the room. CHAPTER VIII. JERRY MEETS WITH MORE HARD LUCK, Nor until the street door was heard to close behind ‘Thomas Reyburton, was the silence broken. Maurice and Iovella had been looking at each other in silent dismay. Then she burst into tears and sunk into a chair, ‘** Ruined !—ruined !” she gasped. ‘*No, no!” Maurice cried; ‘‘\I will stand be- tween you and all harm.” ‘‘Tt is not of myself that I think; it is of ou!” ‘Of me? I am strong enough to face the storm,” “But I have alienated you and your fa- ther.” : ‘* Was it your fault?” “Tama fienderson!” ** And the noblest of women!” ‘¢ But your father cannot be convinced,” ** His views may change—” : Maurice did not finish the sentence, Know- ing Thomas Reyburton as he did, he felt that he might as well look to see the waters of the Hudson River flow northward in their channel as to see thatiron will break. ~_ He stood near Iovella, who sat with her head bowed upon her hands, when Jerry Higgs moved forward. ‘“*Scuse me!” he observed, “ but I guess as how l’m in the way.” Maurice started. He had wholly forgotten the boy.. He had the naturel instinct of a gen- tleman, and the waif’s low, considerate voice did not fail to make an impression, ‘** My good youth,” he answered, ‘“‘we are in distress, now, as you have seen, Thank you for your delicacy. If you will excuse me for the present, you may yo; but I want to see you again. Come to-morrow, without fail? ill you? : ( we Yes, sir.” ‘Very well; don’t forgét.” ‘¢ Thank’ee, sir.” . Jerry went out. When it was too late a new . thought entered Maurice’s perturbed mind: Perhaps the boy is in need! Why didn’t I . ‘ think to give him a dollar?” _ It was not strange that he had forgotten, when he was in so much trouble, but his course, pardonable as it was, had left the ex-bootblack bpose as when he came to the house. _ Jerry had not a penny in his pocket, and noon was close at hand, Tain’t so broke up an’ y should hev sech luck. a twenty-cent dinner was soon steaming Good-for-Nothing Jerry. It was a sincere remark, Good-for-Nothing Jerry he might be, and minus money and work he certainly was, but the same self-sacrificing and noble spirit which had led him to give money to the Saddle-Rider and his daughter without a hope of return, now prompted him to think far more of Maurice and Iovella than of his own wretched lot, “They was ood.ter mg, an’ they spoke kind,” he added. ‘I wish L could help’em!” Meditating thus, ho walked on mechanically, heedless of his course. Turning down Sixth avenue he had gone south, following the car- track, and thus was brought to Canal street, finally. Sight of this busy, but by no means inviting street, awoke him to practical interest in him- self, It-was past noon, and be had neither dinner nor the moeans of purchasing it, ‘* Guess I’ve got ter skirmish, now!” he solilo- quized. ‘‘Grub don’t grow on shade-trees, an’ restaurants ain’t free, See them dusty shoes a- goin’ past with men inter them! Ef I only had my brush an’ box, I’d earn my dinner right quick !” Unfortunately, bis implements of trade were in ashes, and the problem still remained—how was he to get a dinner?” He had a pair of willing hands, and he called at several storesand shops, and inquired if there was any job he could do to earn a few cents, Invariably receiving a negative reply, he found himself in the same dilemma at one o’clock that he was an hour before—and with an appetite even stronger, Two hours more passed without any turn of the tide, though he had continued his applica- tions for work. By the middle of the afternoon he was decid- edly hungry. is troubled him far less than it would a boy reared in luxury, and his courage never wavered, but he did not enjoy the situa- tion, He was without dinner and without home among hundreds of thousands of fellow-beings, and with many a floor bending under its weight ot food. His wandering feet had taken him to the cor- ner of Park Row and Frank{ort streets, and he was standing there in a mood of grim fortitude when he saw a,derby hat whisk out into. the street. The corner was one noted tor high winds when there was a wind any wherearound, and the breeze had neatly uncovered some- body’s head, : Jerry made a dive under the nose of a horse attached to a passing team, snatched the hat out from under the forward platform of a street-car which threatened it with instant bi ade and then bore it back to the side- walk, He was met by a gentleman whose face bore the unnatural smile peculiar to a man hatless on the street. ‘*Thank you, boy!” he exclaimed, heartily. “You run the gantlet in goodshape. Here’s something for your trouble,” The next moment he was moving away, but he had left a bright coin in Jerry’s hands, lt was a ten-cent piece. How the situation changed! Dinner loomed up in the near distance as big as a house, metaphorically if rot literally, and Jerry hast- ened toward a cheap eating-house of which he knew. He never saw the donor of the coin again, but it was long before he forgot him, Entering the restaurant, he sat down at one of the bare tables. There was nothing visible in the way of style at that place. ** Helio, my hearty!” It wasa hearty voice just in front of Jerry, and he looked up and saw Todd® 4, the Tramp. He had, by chance, sat down ajthe same table with his bedfellow of the previous night. ** How’s thi. gsi” the ragged man added, ‘ Pooty faints 2.74" : . “You eat late,” ‘ **T eat when I hey money,” Jerry explained, with his usual practical view of matters, ‘* Made a raise?” “Ten cents.” ‘*Tll add another dime, and do you fill up your crap until you can’t peep above a whis- er. P The boy protested, but Toddles was firm, and in front of the football of fortune, Toddles had finished just previously, Jerry was glad to see j vs v4 : he had him, and for other reasons than because added tothe dinner. The tramp was as good humored as ever, and his bright blue eyes were | ttolook at. — ** How is biz?” Toddles asked. “Poor!” Jerry answered, with a full mouth, ‘* Booked for a nap in the dry-goods case, to- night, with me?” . '*I shall be glad ter, Mr. Toddles,” * Wish we could engage that box for the sea- son,” observed Mr, ‘loddles, meditatively. **There’s just room for us two, and the genie is charming. The North River would wink. and twinkle at us all night, and the water would cool theair, Can’t say as much for the smells, Do you know of any disinfectant that will elim- inate and subdue twenty distinct and malodor- ous effluvia?” Jerry stopped eating and gazed with open mouth at the man who recklessly used such long words. ‘* Hey?” ho replied, The tramp laughed merrily, ‘In plain words, we ought to have the smells done away with, before hiring the box for the season.” ‘¢ Be we kin hire the box, I'll goin with ye, as soon as I git some money.” “ Allright; we'llconsiderit. Asagreed upon this morning, we'll sleep there to-night. After that we will see, I want to see a certain man to-morrow; I may make a raise,” ‘Is it Thomas Reyburton?” Toddles scowled. ‘¢ What's that?” he demanded, Jerry boldly repeated the question. “What do you know about Thomas Reybur- ton? Or what do I know?’ demanded the tramp. ‘*You mentioned some last night,” ‘¢ Did I say ‘ Thomas?” “ec No.” 7 Reyburton, “Just so; I simply said, ‘old Reyburton.’ You’rsa too greedy to snap up flies; look out that you don’t swallow a barbed hook!” It was astern reproof, and Higgs relapsed in- to silence; but, after a brief pause, Toddles sud- denly broke out again. “Say, are we partners?” ke demanded, ‘*T should hike it.” “With a tramp?” “You don’t seem like a tramp.” ““T am,every inch; but this 1 will say for your benefit, young man: I am not like most tramps. Ninety-nine out of every hundred of them are reckless, dishonest, eyil and thoroughly unscru- - pulous, and many are actual criminals. These men would cut your throatforten dollars; never mix with them. J am lazy and ragged, but I swear to you that I never did harm to any man or woman, disreputable as I am to look at!” Todeles spoke with evidence of deep feeling, and his merry blue eyes were very grave for the tima being, but his lighter nature at once came to tna surface again. ‘* Yes, we’re partners, and I don’t know why Lsbould be so close-mouthed, Thomas Reybur- ton is the man I mean, aud the one I rely upon to fiil my pu: se.” : **- You said you bad a secret o’ bis’n.” ‘*So I have, and I mean to make it good for solid money. for I claim to be above that. Now, what do you know about Thomas Reyburton?” ‘¢He’s mad as a hornet’cause his son ter marry lovella Henderson.” Toddles opened his eyes wide in surprise. ‘* A Reyburton marry a Henderson!” he ex- claimed. ‘¢ That’s w’ot the young folks mean ter do,” **Old Thomas will tear his suspender-buttons off!” ‘* He can’t help hisself.” “Tell ae all about it, my hearty!” Jerry H pee was not a boy who went around telling all that he knew, but sometbing now im- pelled him to confide in Toddles, He told enough to make the situation clear to his com- _ nion, PrToddles listened attentively, had a long pe- riod of meditation, and then broke intoa merry _ chuct le. : ‘‘ Whoop her up, Eliza Jane!” he ejaculated, ‘¢] foresee fun ahead, and, as sure as my name is Toddlgs, the Tramp, I shall come in as one of the funny whoopers!”’ “ CHAPTER IX, DRAWN REVOLVERS, Jury and his new friend soon left the res- jt taurant, “Tm off, now! Toddles announced, Rae KS, ‘*On business rs tore fen of its non out a twenty-five cent coin, i on’t class me asa blackmailer, — “‘Seein’thecity?” | at an 7 ut ts ee | ie J. 4s ~~ eee. n Bn ae OO Se ~~ a

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8 ‘Take this to defray your expenses until night,” he added. ** You can’t afford it!” Jerry protested. “Why not?” ‘You said you had only half a dollar, this mornin’, an’ you’ve paid out—” ‘* Rest eacy. Dve made a slight raise since, and mace it at billiards. Two fellows—gam- blers, I presame—were playing in alow room, One got laid out,and was mad, [ told him I could beat the victor. Ho said thatif I would do it, he would givome twodollars. We played, and I won. When I was a well-dressed wan- derer, instead of a ragged tramp, I learned the art well, and [ just tore this fellow all to pieces, as the saying goes. But this is not to the point, Keep the quarter. Do we meet cnd sleep in the box, to-night?” ‘* T shall be glad ter.” * Allright;it’sa go, So-long!” Toddles gave Jerry’s hand a hearty pressure, and went his way. He left the boy ingood spirits, With twenty- five centsin his pocket the world looked more cheerful than it had done before, Ho began to dream of having a bootblack’s outfit again; but other dreams crowded these hopes. Maurico Reyburton had promised to help him, and, if he could get a more promising chance, he thougbt it would be well to abandon his old call- ing. Since being cast off by the Jones family, his inward self had undergone even more- change than the outer one, Rising out of the stolid mood resulting from negiect and abuse, he began to have plansand ambitions which almost startled him, ‘¢ [ wish I could be somebody!” He put the ambition into words earnestly, and then looked at a group of elderly, well- dressed, gray-haired, substantial-looking gentle- men near him. “They call me Good-for-Nothing Jerry,’ he added, *' but I wish I was like them /” The idea was born, not of envy or indolence but of ambition. He felt willing to work hard for years, but, as a reward, wished to rise above the low, ignorant and commonplace of mankind. Not having anything else to do, and knowing that Bess Gray would be anxious about him, the boy made his way up-town as far as her humblehome. Attic 10 had not undergone any change, and he was soon inside the room. To his disappointment, Bess was not present, An- thony Gray cia the only occupant of the wigs As usual, he was sitting upon the old dle The old gentleman was always kind to Jerry, as he was to every one. True, ho had never seemed to appreciate at its real value the boy’s generosity in ‘‘ loaning” him money ; but, after a fashion, he was grateful. “ Well, Jerry, how isthe bootblack business?” he asi.ed, with some show of eagerness, “T ain't a bootblack no more, Mr. Gray. Don’t yer remember I tol’ yo I’d got done?” ‘¢Dear me! I believe I do remember it!” The Saddle-Rider’s face had clouded very erceptibly, His weakened mind'did not allow m to beso very sorry for Jerry, but he real- ized one unpleasant fact. ‘“‘T shall git suthin’ else right soon, Mr. Gray.” ‘¢T hope so, for—we haven’t—much money.” Deep would have been Bess’s mortification had she heard the words, and even Gray flushed er If he had been his old-time self he would have been most reluctant to take Jerry’s hard-earned money, but, now, he was anxious to get it, though still capable of shame. “You might sell the ol’ saddle,” Jerry sug- gested piainly, ‘* Mr, ‘* Jumbletop” looked startled, ‘« Sell the saddle? Never!” he exclaimed. ‘+ What's the good on’t ter you?’ **T sit on it.” “So [ see, but w’ot’s the matter wi’ the ares 4 T shall part with this saddle!” oy, is never wi s saddle declared Gray, firmly, Jerry did not feel inclined to let the matter drop. Contrary to the usual rule, the old gentleman did not seem suspicious, frightened and worried in any “reat degree. The ex-boot- ETA stn eal nattatinnsh Soh a Good-for-Nothing Jerry. in this world, my lad, and there’s one about this article.” “* Money in it?” ** Not a cent.” *€ Can’t imagine w’ot ’tis, then.” Mr. Jumbletop chuckled. ‘*Nobody knows the secret but me!” he as- serted, **Can’t ye sell the secret?” ** Sell it!” cried the old gentleman, indignant- ly. ‘*I would starve, first! There are those who would pay a good price for it, though.” ‘*Think how poor ye be,” Jerry suggested, “Poor L may be, but my honor is left. No; | the secret shall never be told—unless the grave | gives up its dead!” The last words were spoken in a low, thought- ful, absent way. ‘*T wish you'd tell me the secret.” ** What secret?” ‘* That about the ol’ saddle.” ‘* Never!” exclaimed Gray, with a start; and his old, suspicious manner suddenly returned. | ‘Why do you quiz me about this matter? I | have always used you well, received you kind- pe fed and clothed you— No; that is not right, mean that I thank you for your lvans, and will repay you, some day. Yes, yes! Don’t worry about your pay, Jerry; itll be all right!” Jerry saw that the Saddle-Rider’s mind was in a condition far more confused than usual. Gray pressed his hand wearily to his head, and moved to fresh pity, the boy not only reassured bim on the Jast point, to which he had wander- ed so erratically, but let the other matter drop. At the same time, the ex-bootblack could not help wondering what was the secret of the sad- dle—for that it was one, and not a vagary of Gray’s mind, he felt confident. A few minutes later,as Anthony was crossing ( tho room after getting a drink of water, a krock sounded at the door, He opened it, and saw two rough-looking | men, ‘* Excuse me,” said one, ‘' but is this Anthony | Gray?” ‘< That is my name, sir,” ** The basket-maker?” ‘Yes, yes! Won’t you walk in?” The Saddle-Rider believed that he scented an order for work, and his manner was eager. They entered, and took the chairs placed for them. If he was pleased, young Higgs was not. In his opinion the men were both disreputable and evil of appearance, and, from the first, they gazed at him in a strange, critical and pertina- cious WAT *€ Can I seli you some baskets?” asked Gray. ‘“ We will see, later. We are here for infor- mation. If you can give it, 1 think we may then promise you a handsome order for baskets, Can you tell us the whereabouts of a boy named Jerry Higgs?” While asking the question, the evil-looking speaker gazed, not at Anthony, but at the boy. “Why, there’s Jerry!” declared the basket- maker, pointing as he spoke, ‘+ T suspected it!” | Tersely making this assertion, the man nod- ded to bis felow-visitor, who arose and locked the door, Jerry tee to his feet, foreseeing trouble, but, like a flash, the stranger drew two revol- | vers and turned one upon each of the previous | occupants of the room, ‘* Ba still!” he commanded. ‘If you dare to utter a cry for help, I will shoot you down!” Antbony Gray uttered a shrill cry of terror. ‘Have you come for the saddle?” he almost wailed, ‘* Saddle be hanged! We've come for that boy, at we are going to take him, dead or ive CHAPTER X, : ONLY A PIECE OF WIRE, Tus declaration filled Jerry. Higgs with un- bounded surprise. He had never considered himself to be of any particular importance in the world, anyhow/and why any one should fore a)l this trouble with him he could not con-: ceive, ' There was a momentary lull. Jntruder Number Two was at his leader's el- ow, The Football of Fortune was the first to re- gain speech. ‘“* Wot’s all this rubbish?” he demanded, | Sharply. ‘“*You won’t find any rubbish about it,” the revolver-wielder replied, ‘‘ You’re our pris- oner !” ‘* Don’t b’lieve I fully ketch on.” ‘* You are to go away with us.” ‘* Whar?” ‘* That’s our business,” ‘¢ But I can’t see w’ot yer want o me /” Jerry asserted, wonderingly, ‘¢ Tt ain’t necessary that you should, and we will spend no time over it. All you have to do is to go with us. If you go quietly, all well and good, but go you shall, if we have to drag you out, it isin your power to yell, and try to call help, but I warn you that I sball shoot you, if you do, Wecan take you just as well dead, and you'll be a heap quieter!” This atrocious declaration was made in a business kind of way, es though it was the most matter-of-fact thing in the world. Anthony Gray was appalled. Weak as he was mentally, he realized that the intruders were merciless ruftians, and the revolver filled him with shivers and tremors which chased each other up and down his person. It was a great relief to him to learn that it was not the old saddle, but Jerry that they wanted, but he felt great pity for the ex-boot- | black. As for Jerry, his face suddenly flushed and his eyes sparkled. ‘‘See here!” he cried; “‘d’ye think you kin | make this work?” ‘* We know we can.” ‘‘?Merican citizens ain’t ter be sarved so.” ‘Do you mean that you won’t go peace- ably?” ‘“That’s jest wot I do mean!” ‘Then we'll take you!” The speaker advanced a step, but Jerry caught up a stick and swung it aloft for a club. ** Keep back, or I'll rap ye!" ke exclaimed, “ Jack!” called the mux =.va the revolvers, ‘* Ay! was the response. ‘* Go forward and tie up that yeung braggart. If he tries to resist, I'll shoot him!” ‘* All right.” Jack immediately produced a long, stout cord from his pocket, and advanced upon the intended victim. Once more Jerry gave a warning, and he stood braced for the attack, determined not to poe without a struggle. The club caused Jack to hesitate, ‘¢ Blame you, drop that!” he growled. ‘¢ 111 drop it on your head, ef ye te’ches me!” Jerry retorted, unwaveringly. ‘Go in, Jack!” urged villain Number One, *¢ Tl] shoot him if he resists,” Jack made a sudden rush, trying to avoid a blow, but luck was against him, own came the club, sped with all the strength of the ex- bootblack’s arms, and the ruftian tumbled over upon the floor, Number One uttered a furious exclamation, He had never intended to use the revolver, fearing the result of a report; it had been his game to frighten the boy, and the game had failed signally. Hastily pocketing the revolver, he sprung to- ward Jerry. Up went the club again, and an- other blow was aimed, but the fallen assailant without rising, made a forward lunge and seized the boy by the ankle, This spoiled Jerry’s aim, and the club fell without effect, Another moment and he wasin the grasp of his enemies. After that the result was not indoubt. An- thony Gray stood like one dazed, and Jerry was no match for two strong men, He was soon overpowered and bound witb the cord, his legs being left free, ‘¢ You've had your pains for nothing!” sneer- ed the leader of the rufflans. ‘*T have got pains, too!” groaned Jack. “The young cub hit like a flend, Letme at him, Baker!” He would have struck the prisoner, but Baker interfered. es oe a pe Sa nt See See ————— black would not have annoyed him arg eap f Jerry stood erect, more of surprise than alarm ‘“Wewant to get out of here on the jump,” Wate le but he did want to know the secret of the o. d being pictured on his face, he added, ‘‘ Boy, you are to go with us. No- ay ¢ saddle. Anthony Gray was completely demoralized, | body intends to you if you behave well ne: y ‘* Why d’ye think it so vallerble?” he asked, | fear and bewilderment struggling in his . | butas it’s a State’s Prison job with us if we get f of ‘This is not an ordinary work.” The leader of the two evil-looking intruders conght, we are going to play you right down to ea ** Looks ter be,” was the central figure, and the revolvers in his hard-pan. We are in for sheep or ambs, and ieee i ‘“‘Itis made like all saddles, but—well, there | hands did not waver. One covered Gray; the | if you squeal when we're you out, I A AY is more to it. If were to tell you all about | otber presented a yawning muzzle to the ex- | swear that we'll knife you!” Ps he it, you would be surprised, There aremysteries ' bootblack, He turned to Gray, and added: mae: 4 +

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ne ye A ae Oe es eS ee ee ee ** Old gent, we shall leave you here, locking , the door on the outside and leaving the key in * the door, If you raise your bazoo, we'll come back and do you up for three months in the hospital!” The threat was made in a manner so ferocious that the Saddle-Rider was seized with a pitiable trembling, and could not even reply. Jerry was hustled toward the door, He did not resist, but plans were ready in his mind. He did not see how he was to be taken away in broad daylight, and he determined to defy the abductors as soon as they were out of the house. Leaving Attic 10, they locked the door behind them and went down the several flights of stairs, No one was seen on the way. When they reached the outside door a man came in, Jerry was about to appeal to him, but he suddenly said, ‘‘ All right!” and then a coat was flung over the prisoner’s bead, he was lifted bodily and carried out. He struggled manfully, but all to no purpose, He was bundled into a cab; Baker and Jack followed, and then the third man sprung to the box and the vehicle rolled away. The last bold move had been made at just the right moment, and no honest person had seen the affair. Three persons naturally crowded the cab, and Jerry was jammed back into one corner, with a revolver pressed against his temple. ‘* Be still, or I fire!” harshly declared Baker, The Football of Fortune wasin for it, and he decided to take matters as coolly as possible. He could not imagine why any one should want to kidnap him, but it had been done, and he was likely to know the motive some time. Away went the cab, turning several corners ata speed which caused the patrolmen to look at it with the half-formed intention of interfer- ing, but not quite recklessly enough to bring about that result, Their course was toward the east, and they soon reached Elm street, There they drove into a narrow, dark alley, and flnally brought up in a building of unprepossessing ap- pearance. Jerry was dragged out, and he saw that they were in an ill-kept stable of considerable size, When the door had been closed he seemed to be shut in from the whole world. He was taken through a door at one side, and then found himself in 2 house of decent appear ance. He was atonce taken up-stairs to a large room, the windows of which were not only covered with wire netting, but crossed with several iron bars, ‘‘Here you are!” Baker announced, with an air of relief. ‘ *¢ Wot ye goin’ ter do with me?” Jerry asked. ‘¢ Leave you here,” ‘What for?” : ‘Never mind, Hereyouare tostay—be satis- fied with that.” ‘*But [ ain’t; I want ter know why I’m took ~ an shut up? What’ve I done ter any- 06 ‘* Boy, don’t try to know too much. Adam and Eve tried that racket, and you may have heard how they came out. Be satisfled while you're alive, and don’t run the risk of getting snarled up with thelegs of anearthquake, You are to remain here. If you stay quietly, and mind your own business, you won’t have an troubls, but, if you kick up any dust, we shall come in here and silence you. Look out for yourself |” The men had been preparing to go, and they now took their departure, Jerry was locked in and left alone. “ Jiminy!” he commented; ‘‘ this beats the record, Stole as though I wos the son o’ rich parients; abductionized right in the daytime in New York; an’ now shut up like a pris’ner in Sing Sing! What in the world did they do it fur? Folks call me Good-for-Nothin’ Jerry, un’ I hey reckoned thoy’re about right; so why should these men want me so bad?’ The ex-bootblack meditated on this point for some time with profound gravity, but ended by shaking his curly head. “Can't see inter it!” he admitted. ‘It’s mighty odd!” ut being able to get any light, his thoughts ly took a new turn. **Say,” he muttered, *‘ I’ve got ter git out o’ here. "T'was mean fur them scawps ter snake me away as ny gid, an’ I don’t like these quar- ters, nohow, ould stan’ it, though, ef it wa'n’t fur disa’p’intin’ Toddles. He'll expeck me down on the wharf ter sleep with him inthe box, an’ [ hate ter break an engagement, Then thar’s Bess—she’ll be skeered cl’ar out o’ her shoes when she hears o’ my dissolvin’ away from view in sech a way.” Good-for-Nothing Jerry. This, to his mind, was the most serious thing oe all, and he smote himself heavily on the ee. “ By Jiminy! I’ve got ter get out o’ this!” he declared. ‘‘I wouldn’t be the cause 0’ Bess’s worryin’ fur all o’ New York. I'll git out or bu’st !”” There was but little sign left of the stolid Jerry Higgs of old in the SP boy who made this assertion so emphatically; he was thoroughly aroused, at last. He surveyed his prison. The single door was not only locked, but firm, while the bars on the window were not to be removed with anything at his service. However, the wire netting—put on, no doubt, so that the neighbors could not see in—gave him an idea, Once, during his career as a bootblack, he had seen several boys have a detached lock, the bolt of which they were trying to move with pieces of wire. difficult, but not impossible. Could he unlock his prison-door in that way? With the idea formed he was not long in mak- ing the experiment. First, he had to get the wire, ‘This was not easy, but he wrenched a leg out of one of the rickety chairs, and with this pried off enough of the wire to suit his pur- pose. Tt proved to be strong and new—just what he wanted, With this he attacked the Jock, The clicking which he made annoyed him not a little, for he was afraid it would betray him, but he was not disposed to wait until night. The substitute for a key did not work in a rromising manner, It rattled around in the key-hole, now catching on some point and then slipping off, but there was no indication that the bolt intended to move, “1 Il do it, ef it takes all night!” he muttered sar ha ‘‘T want ter git out, an’, by jinks, I will! CHAPTER XI, JERRY HEARS STRANGE NEWS. CLICK! Luck is likea dog which follows a man all through his life, but is not always at his heels. Luck is fickle. Now it serves one well; anon it serves him ill. Now it answers his call when he requires help; then it leaves him in the lurch when most sorely needed. Luck was with Jerry Higgs on this eventful occasion, and, just when he expected it least, the bolt slipped back with a click! which was music to his ears. He tried the door; it opened without resist- ance, " Hope arose strongly in his breast, and he lost no time in improving the chance thus offered, He stepped into the hall and walked softly toward thestairs. Down thease he went without being molested, but the sound of voices showed that that the house was not deserted. The conversation came from a room at one side. Jerry must pass the half-open door in or- der to escape. He went on, but, reaching that point, glanced in, / He saw two men seated at a roll-top desk, which was then open. Neither man was a stran- ger. One was Baker; the other—Jerry recog- nized him with surprise—was John Joy, the de- tective who had been hired to burn the warrant for Iovella’s arrest. This precious pair sat with their backs toward the door, and quite near each other, There was iembd space enough between them so the ex-boot- lack could see that Baker was holding a small aes of papersin his hand. He spoke, and nis words fell with marked effect upon the boy’s ears: ‘‘These documents relate to the Reyburton secret, and prove that old Thomas has no right to the greater part of the property which he holds!” Jerry’s eyes dilated, He had become thor- oughly interested in the Reyburton case, and the news was startling. | John Joy heard the assertion more composed- y. ** Ts the proof positive?” he asked, slowly. ‘* The assertion is here,” Baker amended, “If it be reliable, I will pay you handsomely for the papers,” Baker leaned back in his chair, “Let us go slowly,” he answered, ‘‘I am Thomas Reyburton’s agent, and have served him well. As I told you before,I have kid napped Jerry Higgs by Thomas’s orders and shut him up in a secure place—where, I need not state. ** All this is very well, but I am not satisfied with the small sums 1 get from old Reyburton, He had observed that the task was, 9 Like you, I want to get rich at a bound. Such being the case, and knowing the old man will pay well to preserve the secret, I will not sell you the papers, but will go into partnership with you. ‘*Of course it can’t be equal shares, for I fur- nish the papers and the secret, and you only put in your knowledge of law and your cunning, but you sball have a fair show if you do the diplo- matic work, ‘* How is it?—shall we ‘ bleed’ old Reyburton together?” his long speech was made persuasively, showing a desire on Baker’s part to effect the alliance, John Joy was not so anxious, and it took some argument to win him over, He only yielded when he saw that Baker was deter- mined to be in the game; then a compact was duly made. Before they bad finjghed talking somethin had happened which would have interest them had they known of it. Eager to hear all that was to be learned con- cerning the Reyburtons, Jerry Higgs had crept into the room and ensconced himself behind a fire-screen which stood just where he wanted it He was in.a position to overhear all that was said, though what become of him after- ward was an unsolved question not so satis- factory. ‘* A crisis is approaching in the family affairs of the Reyburtons,” continued Baker, as he un- tied the package of papers, ‘‘ and it will be a crash when it occurs, Old Thomas has no more right to the property than I have, and he knowsit, The very name of Jerry Higgs will make his hair bristle with fear and hostility!” Jerry’s eyes opened widely. Why in the name of all that was mysterious should Thomas Reyburton be afraid of him? “The old man would be left about the same as a beggar, if be lost bis ill-gotten property,” pursued Baker, ‘Maurice has less cause for apprehension, for he has a cool fifty thousand which he inherited from hi#mother, Of course, though Maurice does not know of the family secret. “‘ Can't we ‘ bleed’ Maurice, too?’ asked Joy. ‘Wecan try.” Baker selected one of the papers, and having asked his companion to give close attention, read aloud as follows: “To vas Pupriic:—I, Catherine Bartley, being seized of a mortal complaint, wnich I cannot long resist, have to-day made oath before & magistrate to certain facts concerning the Reyburton family, which will be found fully recorded in a paper which accompanies this, lwrite this with my own hand, the magistrate being gone, to say that | hope no Reyburton will blame me for what Ihave done. I had justice and duty in my mind, merely, when I made that true statement, declaring that Thomas Reyburton was not, by right the possessor of the family wealth. Having been many years in the service of the Reyburtons, their honoris as dear to meé as to any one else, and I wish all to believe that my motives were of the best when I made known the facts concerning the true heir, My sworn statement accompanies this. “CATHERINE BARTLEY.” Baker refolded the paper, ‘¢Mrs. Bartley,” he resumed, ‘twas house- keeper for the Reyburtons, This is in her writ- ing, and you can see that she was an intelligent woman,” ‘Well, now for the sworn confession.” ‘* Tt is not here,” ee Not, here q” “ce 0. ‘© Where is it?” ‘¢ That’s what 1 don’t know,” ** Explain!” , “This package of papers is all that I have, and the confession—I should say statement, ra- ther, though I do not know its nature—is not one of them. Where it has gone I have no means of knowing, The other papers here ars of minor importance. Some corroborative evi- dence may, or may not, be gleaned from them, but it is of no value,” ‘Then how are we to prove our claim?” Joy asked, gloomily. ‘“‘Tf we were seeking to put the real heir in ession we could not prove it, perhaps, but hat is not to the point; we know who the real heir is, but wish to keep him ont. What we want is to let Thomas Reyburton see that we are aware of his illegal holding of the property, and force him to pay for our silence,” “True!” ‘* We have proof enough for that,” ‘* Are you sure that the boy—Higgs, if that’s the name he is known by--has no papers?” ‘¢T think he hasn't.”

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nt i Y ad ut 10 *«Then we have the game in our own hands?” ** Absolutely.” ‘*Tt would break Reyburton’s heart to lose the money, after all he has done, first and last, to spite the Hendersons, Anotber, younger, Reyburton might not possess the same vindic- tive spirit.” “* Very likely not.” Baker replaced the papers in the desk, locked it and put the key in his pocket. ‘' Well, ivs a go, then?” he inquired. ee Yes,” ‘“Tnen old Reyburton shall fill our pockets with the cash we so much adore!” Bota men left the room andthe house. When the frunt door closed behind them Jerry Higgs arose from bis place of concealment. ‘Jiminy! that’s mighty queer!’ he comment- ed. ‘‘I don’t more than haif understand it, but one thing is sure—they’re up terrascality. Wish I could beat ’em out!” He glanced toward the desk. According to his understanding of the affair, their most im- ortant proofs were the papers he had just seen ocked up. ‘*T don’t like Thomas Reyburton,” the ex- bootblack continued, ‘‘ but he’s Maurice’s father, an’ Maurice is good! Besides, he’s promised ter help me. How kin I better desarve help than by givin’ him a lift?” He walked to the desk and examined it, Both lock and desk, itself, seemed unusually firm. ** Baker must’a’been off when he said Thomas Reyburton was afeerd o’me. Why should he be? Baker said it was Reyburton who bired him ter shut me up here, I don’t b’lieve it! What cause fur shuttin?’me up could the ol’ gentleman hev?—or anybody else?” The argument had led Jerry into deep waters, Plainly, some one had a motive, for be certainly had been shut up. “Then Joy asked ef I had any o’ the papers! What papers should J hev?” Moro than ever bewildered, he abandoned the unavailing inquiryfand once more turned his gaze upon the desk, Honest to a degree, he was confronted witb an important question: Would he be justified in securing the valuable papers while he could? He thought of Maurice, and his decision was soon made. In his opinion Maurice would not see injustice done to any one; it would be safe to give him the papers, even though they might work against him. He determined to forve open the desk. It was not hard to find something with which to accomplish this result, and it was soon done. His hand closed upon the papers, and he thrust them away in his pocket, It did not occur to him that he was laying himself liable to arrest. Noone had ever ex- pounded law to him; no teacher or parent had ever given him lessonsin the subtler affairs’ of human conduct. Believing that he was serving a good end, his conscience was easy. he next thing was to escape from the house, CHAPTER XII. A SUSPICIOUS SCENE ON A YACHT. EVEN as Jerry considered this very important matter footsteps sounded in the ball, and he again retreated behind the fire-screen. A female servant appeared. His position was not one of the safest, and he expected discovery, Fortunately, she passed on to the further end of the room, and then he arose and glided away, his bare feet making no audible sound. Hewas soon at the front door; opening it he passed out. Once more he was on the street, and enjoying freedom. He did not intend to be captured again, but took care to get.away without delay. elieving that his first step should be to de- liver the papers to Maurice Reyburton, he started up-town. On the way he stopped and informed Bess—waoo was in a panic—that he was safe, but delayed: telling his story in detail until the next day. After leaving Attic 10, it did not take him long to reach Fourteenth street, but when he arrived Maurice was out. There seemed no way except to ea heat this matter, also, for it was eight o’clock, so he went to a restaurant, had supper, and then re- turned to the lower t of the city. He was tired and sleepy, and consequently felt a good deal of inte in his lodging-house, the box on MRS hen he reached the vicinity, he was pleased to see not only the box but his friend, Toddles. The latter was waiting on a street corner, and greeted him as heartily as ever, bis blue eyes gleaming with good-humor. They made their way secretly to the box, and were soon in their quarters. A Ss Le ene Good-for-Nothin= Jerry. mendes Siem ) aeeunaahe ae , = ** Jolly place!” quoth Toddles, cheerfully. ‘*See the moon over there. She’s winking and blinking at us in a right friendly way. Ah! me, but I’ve seen old Luna blink in many a land!” ‘* Luna? Who's she?” ‘*Tnat same imperia] moon, friend of all wanderers, be they tramps or millionaires. How has the day gone with you, my hearty?” ** Pooty fair.” ‘*T wish I could say the same, but I can’t,” and the tramp’s voice grew low and grave. ‘* Say, what would you take me for?” “ce Eb?” ** A lone old bachelor, or otherwise? Well, well, why ask you to guess? You see only a vagabond, anyhow—or you would see one, if the moonlight fell more into the Stygian dark- ness—fine expression!—of this box, Partner, [ve been looking for my wife and little boy, to-day !” ** Have you got some?” ‘Providence knows, not I. If Death, the Reaper, has held off his heavy hand, I have a wife and boy, somewhere in the world. Nine years old, the child should be, and it’s many a year-since I've seen him.” Toddles was not in his usual high spirits; his voice was low and grave. ‘¢ 1m sorry you couldn’t find ’em.” ** Ay, ay; I believe you, Jerry. You’re one of the white hen’s chickens. Yes; I feel a bit weary and discouraged, after my long tramp of to-day. I was in hopes [ could tind my folks, but—I didn’t. Let it pass, though. How long do you expect to sleep in this box?” ‘*T don’t know.” ‘* Wouldn't object to be in better quartiers, 2 eh? No.” ‘‘If I make a raise, I may be able to get you an attic room, small but comfortable. How would you like that, my hearty, with enough to eat, a fire in winter, books and papers, and me to drop in and chat, now and then?” Toddles’s voice was once more very cheerful, and Jerry’s eyes sparkled. ‘That'd be prime!” he declared. Just so, Well, if I make a raise, I may be able to bring all these things about. You are willing to work, I dare say?” ‘* You bet!” ** All right, my hearty. Now let us take a nap. I can almost fancy I’m at sea—as I have been many a time—when I near the water lap- ping the pier so restlessly. The moon sails on ikea big silver dish on a vast table-cloth of blue, star-dotted. Pard,I should fairly adore this location, as a bedroom, were it not that too many odors smite the nostrils here. Per- haps we could breathe through our ears, but that’s not Nature’s chosen way.” Talking thus in his good-humored way, Toddles Jay down in one corner of the box, and Jerry took the other. He was beginning to lke the box for a bedroom. It was preferable to Uncle Ben Jones’s ill-kept quarters, and it was pleasant to look out and see the moon. As Toddles had once said; that moon was just as good a triend to them as to tae ricb and aris- tocratic. The night passed in peaceful rest, and, in the morning, they crawled out of the box and went to breakfast. Toddles insisted upon paying for what Jerry ate, and, afterward, gave him twenty five cents. As much as the boy needed the money he hesitated to take it from his rag- ged friend, but Toddles insisted. ‘We part once more,” the tramp then re- marked. 7 “e Yes.” “ Ts it the box again, to-night?” ‘*That’s the only place I’ve got.” **}ll meet you there, but that isn’t saying we shall abide there again for asleep. I hope to make a raise, to-day, big enough to put decent clothes on my bark and have something left over. if it transpires that way, we will have a room in some hotel where the prices are reason- able. Now. my bearty, good-by! Remember and come to the box at the usual hour. §So- loug!” Once more Toddles shook his young friend’s hand and went bis pnd Jerry looked after him thoughtfully. Theinclination had been strong in the latter’s mind to ask some questions, According to Toddles’s own statement, he was in New York to get money from Thomas Reyburton, and he intended to do it on the strength of some secret which he held, Was it the same secret of which Baker had spoken? Jerry laid his hand on his| pocket. The . precious papers were still there. and he intendea to give them to Maurice, Perhaps, though, Toddles knew even more than the papers told; he had spoken of the secret confidently, as though perfectly sure of his position. The question was: How far was Toddles to be trusted? He had avowed that he was not a mere blackmailer, and was a jolly, generous companion, but natural caution bad kept Jerry from confiding in him fully; and he had been afraid that if be began to ask questions, he would get more back than he could meet. It was still too early to call upon Maurice, so he wandered along the piers, hoping to get a chance to earn ea little money. He was pursuing bis way when a cab passed him at a speed so great that the wheels lifted a quantity of the mud which lay in the street and flung it upon the boy’s back in a long, irregular line. He did not mind this; mud and he were not strangers; but it called his attention to the cab more particularly. There was nothizg peculiar about the vehicle, but the horses were large, spirited grays, and from the bridle of each fluttered a bunch of fancifully-knotted ribbons, the colors of which were red, white and blue, The cab kept on, but paused ata pier some distance below. Jerry saw a man come out to meet it. He opened the cab-door, and a lady alighted. She walked to the pier with the man, and then went on board of a vessel. Jerry was looking in perplexity. He thought that she resembled lovella Hen- derson, but did not feel sure of the fact. Still walking on, he continued to watch. The lady gave every indication of going below, but paused at the very moment when the watcher expected her to disappear. She seemed to hesi- tate, and a visible reluctance was to be observed inhermanner, Then her companion swung bis arm around her waist and, with a quick, rough motion, half-pushed and half-carried her below. It looked so much like violence that Jerry hurried along toward the pier. Then he saw that the craft was a small, neat yacht, with the name ‘* Speedwell” visible on her hull. Just then two men came on deck, end Jerry started as he saw that one was Luther Hender- gon, Jerry wasalarmed. Luther was lovella’s enemy. If she was there, it was plain that she was in trouble. CHAPTER XIII. THE JONES FAMILY IN A NEW ROLE. JERRY placed himself in a position where he would not be conspicuous, and continued to watch the yacht and its surroundings. He hoped to get another look at the lady who had gone below. Luther Hendevson and his companion, who was an ordinary-looking sailor, were engaged in earnest conversation. Jerry ®ould not get near enough to overhear what they said, nor did their manner give any clew. The cab had disappeared, and the trim little yacht, rocking at the edge of the pier, was an mneoerea e object, but the ex-bootblack was not satisfied. Had it really been Iovella that he had seen? If so, what was she doing onacraft where Luther Henderson was alsoa welcome passen- ger? He had proved himself her bitter enemy by trying to have her arrested for an alleged theft, and it was positive that neither he nor she would ever consent to resume amicable re- lations. The boy was troubled. He watched for half an hour, but there was no change in the situa- tion. Henderson and the sailor kept their places, and the lady did not reappear. The doubt and fear became painful, and, see- ing a patrolman a block above, Jerry hurried over to him, ‘*Say, mister, kin I speak ter you?” he asked. ‘¢-You can try,” was the ungracious reply. ‘*T’'m afeerd *s trouble over yender,”’ ‘¢ Where?” ‘€On the yacht.” ‘* What's up?” ‘© 1 seen a lady go dowr. inter the vessel, an thar’s a man on deck that hates her.” ‘© Well, what of that?” ‘*T’'m afeerd he won't let her out.” ** All seems to be quiet there.” ‘* So "tis, but she don’t come up.” ** How did she get there?” ‘*She come in acab.” ‘* Tell me all about it.” Jerry told as much as he thought was prudent In regard to the past he merely stated that he knew Henderson hated Iov and he was”

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Fonscious that he had not madeouta very strong case. ‘© You say they are relatives?” asked the patrolman, * Yes, but—” ‘¢ And that she came ina cab.and went aboard of her own free will?” ** Yes, but—” “ And that all is quiet there now?” ** Don’t yer see—’ ‘No; I don’t see. Looks to me like a very ordinary affair. There is no evidence of trou- ple, and you confess that you are not sure the lady was this Miss Henderson of whom you 4 5 spoke. Even if she is, she and the man ma ie have made up. But the chances are that this | lady was a different person, I shall not be able to interfere—you are inclined to be too imagin- ative. You had better go and play marbles,” Smiling in the fasuion of a superior being, the patrolman walked on down the street, swinging his club ina nonchalant way. Jerry was disappointed, but not surprised. He had never received any great amount of courtesy from policemen, and, as this particu- lar one had said, he had not made out a very strong case, : Nevertheless, the boy was still troubled, ‘¢?Twon’t do no good fur me ter watch here,” “ he thought. ‘‘ While the yacht lays thar she 4 ain’t in no great danger, an’ the wisest thing I ba M kin do is ter go right ter Maurice. Ef she’s in 4 trouble he will soon find it out, an’ ef she’s all ad right, V’ll git a load off’n my mind.” | i Believing this to be a case of necessity, he de- z termined to use his money to the end of rapid -} ‘traveling, so he hurried to the nearest station Ve of the Elevated Road, and went north by this he oo tA Ae a spo we RES Ras SS M2 ab ese ee ROP SD Sat BOS . Btn teins 3° RES “ pra ie », wet i aaa Ae ak ll lawful owner of the family property in his pos- session. All this could not help suggesting a strange possibility, and nearly every boy would have caught atit. Jerrydid not, The ideaoccurred to him, but he rejected it promptly. Hedid not believe either that he was a Reyburton or the heir to wealth, ‘“Why do the Joneses want ter take me back now?’ he inquired, after a pause, ‘*They’ve found out who you are, and want to get into your good graces,” This was a strong argument, but it did not convince Jerry. ‘* They’ve changed their minds,” he admitted, “but they'll do it a good many more times afore I get ter be rich.” ‘* You won’t believe in me, Jerry!” remon-. strated Bess, ina grieved voice. ‘¢ Yes, I will, too!” was the quick response, ‘lt may be so—yes; [ may be a prince, *Twouldn’t be so very odd—that is, it might be: 80. He tried to assume the air of a believer, but really remained a skeptic. Once more there was a knock at the door, and this time it was Maurice who made his appearance, He looked troubled and excited. ‘Can you tell me— Ah! here is the very person I wanted to see.” Maurice had caught sight of Jerry as he spoke, and he entered the room quickly. ‘*My lad,” he resumed, ‘‘ let me say that I have not forgotten my promise to help you. I intend to keép it to the letter, and secure a suitable job for you, but more pressing matters. demand my attention now. Until I can attend to your case properly, let me compromise mat- ters by giving you something to defray actual daily expenses.” He passed out a crisp bank-note, and Jerry’s ihe enlar,ed as he saw that it was for ten dol- ars. ‘** T don’t need all of that /” he exclaimed. ‘¢ Never mind; take it,” ‘¢ But [ ain’t earned it!” ‘¢ We will not discuss that point. The money is of no importance to me, and it may do you good. Take it without hesitation,” ‘*Perhaps | kin earn it, Did yer get my let- ter?” ** Your letter? No!” ‘*T lef? one at yer room.” ‘* Concerning what?” ‘* Miss Iovella, I was afraid—” } ‘* What about her? Have you seen her? She is missing |” Maurice ra amt questioned and as- serted, showing considerable excitement. ‘‘I have reason to fear that she is in trouble.” ‘*Sheis! She went in a cab—” ; ‘* With gray horses?” ‘*'Yes; an’ with red, white an’ blue ribbons tied ter the bridles.” ‘* It is the same. Where did you see it?” — pe At a pier, Shewent onter a yacht that laid. ar. : ‘By my life! Luther Henderson has a. yacht, and I believe my worst fears are real- ized,” ‘This yacht was named the Speedwell.” ell me all that. ‘It is Luther Henderson’s. you know about it,” Jerry obeyed, and gave the account in plain, brief sentences. ‘‘ Jt was Iovella!” Maurice declared; ‘‘I feel sure of it. What she went aboard of "Hender- son’s yacht for I cannot conceive, however. Possibly she did not know that he had a craft, for I never heard her refer to nautical matters in any way—or she may not have seen the name, She was decoyed away by a message pretending tocome from me,” ‘‘'That’s why she went on ter it.” ‘* Very likely, But weare losing time here. My lad, you said that you wanted to earn this money. have the desired chance,” — Turning abruptly, Maurice left the room and Jerry followed bim. On the street stood a wale cab ; they entered and were driven away rapidly. ; *K We may see rough times,” the young man e and water for him. During ew days Je id made more friends than ever be- fore, and they had ; a >. oe i side petit ale eer een Pocketit, come with me, and you shall — Maurice threw off his anxious, gloomy a black # trien y . glance, and the latter felt willing to Rien the last f foie eee ee “ta ro ce Sigg eos - . ae . Pr e “ * . ee a poe. ee ae? ic _— aoe SS ee ee ee ae ~ . ~ le eee! A . : £3 :! tn ~ ay a aes | _ 2 a = > ‘ ae SE: > SS aig =~ : Ps Fee ¢

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“Ward's an aera eee RR ° =i Sa ee vo Pema alk It was not along ide to the pier. They arrived and hurriedly alighted. ‘* W here’s the yacht?” Maurico asked. Sure enough, where wasshe? Theopen water ‘wippled and shone where the Speedwell! had last been seen by Jerry, but the craft was not there, Kagerly they hastened out to the end of the pier, but, look as far as they might, and did, the missing yacht could not be discerned. A workman near at hand was interviewed. ‘* Flow long have you been here?” ‘*Tver sence dhe roising ave de sun,” ** Did you see the yacht go away?” *¢ Oi did, that.” ‘* Where did she go?” ‘* Straight down the river, yer Honor,” ‘* Did you see a lady aboard of her, or a lady ieave her before she sailed?” ‘*Oi s’ane a leddy come in a cab an hour or so before dhe vessel sailed, but she did not come up out ave dhe cabin afther she wint below, gor. ; “ Are you sure?” ‘** Oi be.” Further questioning gave them no additional ‘information, and they were left to the inevita- ble conclusion that Iovella had gone away in Luther Henderson’s yacht. That she went as a prisoner was beyond doubt, ‘She was lured here under the impression that she was going to my own vessel—an eas task, when it is remembered that she knew J had one, but had never seen it,” ** Can’t ye take yours an’ foller?” asked Jerry, quickly. “I shall try, but the chances are against suc- cess, perhaps. My yacht lies at Brooklyn, and, by the time we get her under way, the Speed- well will have obtained a long start. And where has she gone? We have noclew.” ** Can’t we git on the track by inquirin’?” *¢ We shall try, of course; but the result is in doubt, with the chances against us. Will you keep along?” ‘*T shall be mighty glad ter!” ** Come, then.” They returned to the cab, Maurice gave fresh directions, and they were driven to Brooklyn. ll of Maurice’s sailor-employees lived near where the yacht lay, and as he had good luck in finding them, and the craft was ready for sea, they were under way much sooner than was to be expected. Heading down the East River, they first made for the lower point of New York, There Mau- rice landed, Aware that men were always around Castle Garden and Battery Park, he hoped that some of them, or some employee of tha ferry company, had seen the Speedwell ass, y Diligent inquiry failed to develop anything, and he was obliged to return to his own yacht unsuccessful. Where to go was a great conundrum, The Speedwell might have gone to sea, or be lying at Staten Island, or on the New York side of the Hast River, or at some point which went to make up the long coast-line of Long Island from Gowanus Bay to the Sound. It was, to use an old expression, like hunting for a needle in a hay-mow,. Anxious to leave no chance untried, Maurice again landed, visited a detective of whom he knew, and engaged that gentleman to work on land while they kept to the water. Several laces were in his mind as prisons to which ovella might be taken, and the detective was to watch these. Despite this move, he was inclined to think that the girl was still on the Speedwell, and as soon as possible, ho returned to the yacht and resumed the search by water. In this way the day woreon. The search had been thorough, especially along the Long Island shore, but it was the middle of the afternoon before any clew was gained, Then two men in a row-boat were ken who wero positive that they had seen the Speed- well, before noon, passing up the East River. In their opinion she ha kept to the west of Randall’s Islands, If this was so, there was strong hope of find- ‘ng her, for her inevitable course must set ’ ‘the Harlem. she might have passed through H pursuers took the western passage. Beset with the fear that, after al ell Gate, the CHAPTER XV. THE PURSUERS MEET A TRAMP, Mavrice soon found fresh cause for annoy- ance. All day the wind had been blowing i i best of yachting ken a ee ae oo ee yt ll _- SRR cme er ee mart Good-for-Nothing Jerry. weather, but these conditions suddenly changed. The wind died out almost wholly, making it al- most impossible to get the necessary amount to move the yacht. They crawled up the river at a snail’s pace, Young Reyburton watched with anxiety and vexation, Jerry had given him the papers secured from Baker’s house, but he had not taken time to ex- amine them, and theex-bootblack had not urged the point. Maurice, however, remembered the package at this juncture, and was glad to have anything to occupy his time. He took the pa- pers from his pocket. ‘*T’]] look them over,” he remarked. say they are important?” ‘Yes, an’ you'll find bad news—ef it’s true.” ‘Never mind; it may as well come in allo- pathic doses, as in small ones.” By chance, he first opened Catherine Bartley’s letter. Jerry watched as his companion read. He expected to see alarm appear on Maurice’s face, but the latter was perfectly calm, ‘* Wha6é does all this mean?” he asked. ‘* Didn’t ye never bear o’ Mrs. Bartley?” ‘*Yes, She was the Reyburton housekeeper at one time, I remember her well, though i never was much acquainted with her. She was not like the ordinary housekeeper; she was in- telligent, and evidently fitted for a station in life far above that which she occupied. She was a very bonorahle woman, too,” ‘Do ye b’lieve w’ot she says thar?” ** Sho asserts that my father was not the true heir of the Reyburton property—that is to say, of the big slice. There are numerous Reybur- tons, and all are well-to-do, but the principal fortune is larger than all the others combined. Father holds it now.” Maurice spoke with perfect unconcern. ‘Dye s’pose thar’s another heir?” ‘*T don’t know; I always ey ed all was re- gular in father’s succession, there is another man to whom it rightfully belongs, I wish he would come and take the property. It might heal up some differences which now exist!” The speaker’s manner was gloomy, andit was plain that bis mind was upon the stormy scene which had taken place when his father learned of his acquaintance with Iovella. Jerry was glad that Maurice took it so coolly. All his respect and affection had gone out to the man who, from the first, had treated him so kindly, and he felt like a criminal when he handed was true, would showthat the Reyburton money did not belong to Maurice’s line. ‘“*T hated ter give ye thum papers,” Jerry ad- itted. “Why?” **T was ateerd yer would blame me, ‘* Why should 1#” Maurice asked, in surprise. ‘* Wal, whether you feel willin’ or not, it may make ye a good’cal poorer. Some day ye may be sorry.” ‘‘Not I! I verily believe the Reyburton a ph has been a curse—though it need not 6, in the hands of a right-minded man. Who- ever holds it must, according to precedent, keep or the family feud against the Hender- sons, want no part of it. I am glad you gave me the 2 eh but I have no idea who the alleged true heir is.” hile talking Maurice had not failed to keep up his careful watch on both land and water. He was growing anxious. Night was close at hand, and if the fugitives were found it must be soon, Just as he finished speaking he caught sight of a yacht which layata pier. It was strange- ly familiar, and his heart gave a bound. Otten, in the past, be had seen Luther Hender- son out on the water, and he believed he recog- nized that person’s craft in that which rocked 80 quietly by the pier. his order they headed for that point. The shadows of twilight were gathering around the other yacht, and it was not cred to make out her name. A single man was visible, sitting on deck and calmly smoking. He wasa bronzed sailor. A few fathoms more, and the name became distinct. It was the Speedwell! The craft was found, but whether Iovella was there was another question. It must be solved at once, and the parties headed for the pier. No words were lost at a distance, but their acht was brought around close to the Speed- well. The old sailor continued to smoke uncon- cernedly. “* Hallo, my friend!” Maurice began, ‘‘is Mr, Henderson aboard?” ** No,” was the ready reply. “You m meaabe, 9 a os, Serene over the papers which, if the statement |. ** Where is he?” **Non’t know.” ‘*Where is Miss Henderson?” ‘* Never heard of any Miss Henderson,” sto- lidly answered the old sailor. **T refer to the lady whony you took on board from the North River pier, after she came there in a cab,” **Don’t know of any sech person. No lady has been on this yacht sence a week ago, or more.” It was plain that the man was lying deliber- ately, and Maurice determined to bother no longer with him. The tide was moving the two crafts nearer together, and the occasion seemed to be one when it was worth while to risk some- thing. No policeman was visible, and Maurice was not disposed to delay to seek one, As the two yachts touched hesprung to the Speedwell’s deck, and Jerry and some of the crew followed promptly. The old sailor did not even rise; he continued to smoke, watching them in a surly way. In this Maurice found proof of his unreliability ; he would surely resent any such intrusion un- se he knew that it was not the advance of river thugs. ‘*Now,” the young man sternly continued, **vou will save yourself a good deal of trouble by showing us over the yacht, You know why we are here, and that we sball neither touch nor roolest any of Henderson’s property; but I must and will have proof that no prisoner is kept here!” ‘*You’re an unmannerly dog!” growled the old sailor, *‘but you hev the right o’ good clothes, I's’pose, Come along, ef you want to!” His readiness presaged failure, but Maurice did not hesitate. Bidding all his followers ex- e Jerry remain where they were, he went below with the sailor, Several minutes passed quietly, and then the trio returned. One look at Maurice’s face was enough to show that be had met with disap- pointment, but he was not done with Hender- son’s man. ‘* When did the lady go away?” he asked. ** Ain’é seen no lady!” ‘You speak falsely, and we know it. Look out that you don’t get into trouble. If you come to the point and help us out, you will es- cape trouble; if you refuse, I’ll have you ar- rested for abduction!” ‘*Go ahead!” was the unmoved reply. ‘* Fool! do you want to get into the grasp of the law?” ** No, an’ I sha’n’t.” : = I shall call a policeman, unless you con- ess. ‘*Do ye accuse me of abductin’ anybody?” **'You were on the craft.” ‘*T ain’t afraid o’ the consequences,” ‘Do you refuse to tell me where the ree is?” “T don’t know, an’f£ wouldn’t tell if J did!” ** Suppose you give me a chance, admiral?” The last words came from the semi-darkness of the pier, and were uttered in the heartiest, most good-humored voice imaginable, Maurice ms that way and saw a very rag- ed man who looked to be a veritable tramp. e stood with his bands in his pockets, and had an air of perfect content hanging around him like a mantle, ** Why, it’s Toddles!” cried Jerry. “Right you are, my hearty!” was tho cheer- ful response. ‘I’ve been Jooking at you, pard, for the last five minutes. Didn’t expect to see you in this harbor, but am glad to meet you, all the same.” ‘* How long have you been here?” Maurice de- manded. ‘*Long enough to see the young lady taken ms. ‘Po what place?” ‘*Come with me, and I’ll show you.” “We will do it,” ‘* Before you start, admiral, set a guard over our old salt. He might get there ahead of us, if age has crooked his legs a bit.” The old sailor‘did not object to this arrange- ment, and, leaving all of the crew except one man, the rescue-party set out at Toddles’s heels. Jerry had told Maurice that the guide was to be trusted, and this statement was taken without fear. ‘* Have we far to go?” Maurice asked, as they reached the land-end of the pier. ‘Only a short distance, admiral, A short horse is soon curried, a smal] bucket is soon fill- ed, a two-weeks baby’s hair is soon combed, and a short story’s soon told. I'll tell mine, The lady was taken away from the ht in a cab, and shut up in a house a couple of blocks away. I saw the racket begun, and watched it out be- h a eae oe: Se eee ———

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ae eee Se “4 ork 7 * Ar cause I thought I recognized two persons of the Henderson family.” “You were right,” Maurice agreed. *'You’re not a Henderson?” “Tam a Reyburton,” ‘© With what name in front?” “Maurice. Thomas Reyburton is my fath- er. Toddles broke into a chuckle, ** Thought so!” he commented, The light of the street-lamp near at hand fell full upon the tramp’s tace as he spoke, and it re- flected so many different emotions that Jerry was surprised, Toddles looked critically at Maurice, eying both his face and form curiously. ‘*Pvo heard of the Reyburtons,”he added. **Can’t say that I’m on speaking terms with any of them, but I may be, later, However, yon- der’s the house where the lady wasincarcerated, Make ready for a fight, my heartios!” CHAPTER XVI. THE HATCHET OF DESTRUCTION. Tue locality was one where the buildings did not form compact squares, but, in many places, were separated by vacant lois. The house where, according to Toddles, Iovella Henderson had been taken, was one cf a row of six, each end of which was a field where the city youth, in the daytime, played ball, chased wandering goats end dogs, and rent the air with shouts, As it war almost wholly dark at the time when the rescue-party approached, none of these boys were visible. Maurice Reyburton advanced and knocked at the door. There wasno answer, Twice he re- peated the summons, but without effect, ‘* There ain’t no light,” remarked the member of his crew whom he had taken along, “‘ an’ I don’t believe they’re here,” ‘* They came here!” Toddles asserted, positive- 1 . Tip epend upon it, they are hiding,” Maurice decided. ‘*We will go in if I porta call an officer.” Jerry Higgs bad an idea of his own, and he hastened around the end of the row of houses, Each had an entrance upon the vacant lot, no doubt, and a better chance to escape could not be had. He turned the corner and marked the door which belonged to the house under suspicion, but, before be could reach it, several persons came out quickly. He saw that one was a wo- man, and, though he could not distinguish her face, he felt sure that it was Iovella, Herushed back to where he could see his allies, ‘Here they be!” he cried. ‘‘ This way! They’re makin’ off! Come on!” And then he ran back to the rear, arriving just in time to see the fugitives hurrying across the field, It needed only one glance to detect that the woman was being forced along, and Jerry darted across the field likea racer. He covered the intervening space in a very short time, and as he came nearer, recognized both Iovella and Luther Henderson. The girl saw the ex-bootblack and uttered a cry. af Help! help!” Jerry sprung at Luther ina fury, Winding his arms arounc the abductor’s neck, he hung on pertinaciously. Hendersonstruggled in vain to dislodge him, but, as the boy’s feet did not touch the group, succeeded in making Jerry's legs fly about in wild circles and curves, Again Iovella called for help, and her small defender added his voice. Help was at hand, Maurice and his men reached the spot, and Tod- dies’s first act was to knock Luther down in a scientific way. “* Avast, there!” growled the world-wanderer ; “‘vou’re shaking my pard up badly, and I won't stand that. Hurt, my hearty?’ The last question was to Jerry, who had scrambled to his feet. ** Not an artom!” the boy declared, ** Bravo for you!” ; The fight was over almost as soon as it began. Henderson’s men would not stand by him, and the arch-plotter, himself, was dazed by Tod- dies’s vigorous blow. Iovella was in Maurice’s arms. A policeman put in an appearance. ‘* What's up? he Aoadateied. **Nobody’s down, but him,” returned Jerry, pointing to Henderson, : * Officer,” added Maurice, ‘‘ we desire you to arrest that fellow for abduction!” His manner impressed the patrolman favor- , and that gentleman laid a heavy hand on "3 collar. Good-for-Nothing Jerry. 13 ** Here ye be, cully!” he announced, ‘* Oi’ll run yez in, in de shake ave a deer’s hoof!” ‘‘Luther can bring no,charge against me,” Iovella whispered to her lover. ,‘‘ He has con- fessed that he has recovered the lost deed from the real thief, who took it fron the valise at the ferry-house,” The next few moments were devoted to busi- ness. Henderson begged for mercy, but Mau- rice would not grant it. A station-house was near at hand, and he went with the officer and made a formal charge. The plotter was then locked up. When again outside Mauricesought hisfriends and addressed Toddles and Jerry earnestly, ‘* You, my boy, have nobly earned the ten dollars I gave you. Only for your quick wit we'should have lost our game. Believe me, I know how to reward those who serve me, and if you will come to me to-morrow, I will prove the fact. He then turned to Toddles, **To you, sir, I owe an equal debt of grati- tude, Had you not been on hand at the pier, Mr, Gray shook his head and sighed. we should have been wholly at fault. Excuse; ‘‘Do I resemble any one you ever knew?” my plainness, but you seem to be in hard luck | Toddles asked, and out of money. 1 will reward you in the ** Indeed, you do!’ fullest degree. ** May I ask his name?” Toddles chuckled, “Tt was Richard—” “*l’ve heard it said the Reyburtons were gen- “Enough, Anthony Gray; enough! Look erous,” he quietly replied. here!” ‘*] will not see the reputation lost.”’ Toddles shoved up his tattered sleeve, expos- ‘* Thanks, admiral. Ili try to meet your gen- | ing the scar of what must once have been a erosity in a way that won’t lower my reputa- | wound. Gray uttered a loud cry. tion. No man in rags should be mean,” ‘Mr, Ricbard!—it is Mr, Richard!” he cried, His bright-blue eyes twinkled merrily as he | wildly, ‘‘ He has cdme back from the grave!” spoke, and Maurice felt that nothing was truer ‘* Back from world-wide whomgrplen. Toddles. than that a good heart is just as likely to be | amended, in an unsteady voice, ‘‘and I find you. found under rags as under broadcloth and irre- | faithful—” proachable linen. He had reached out to take the old gentle- 1 of our friends went rboard the yacht, | man’s hand, but Gray rushed away like a mad- which then made off down the river. It was | man. Inone corner lay a hatchet. He seized nearly eleven o’clock when they landed again on the North River side of Gotham. There Jerry and Toddles left the others, Maurice would have seen them housed in comfortable quarters, but Toddiles objected, and said that the next day was soon enough for them to OF na, on the gaudy raiment of over-vaulting pride,” as he A REYBURTON ABOVE REPROACH, called the promised good clothes. THOMAS REYBURTON sat in a private roonx “We want to have another night in our of his mansion, Magnificence was all around bonny box,” Toddles explained to Jerry, when | him, but he was not happy; his face was pale, they had been left behind by the rest of the | and it bore a gloomy, troubled expression as he pansy ‘Tf our fine gentleman keeps his word | confronted two men who were unwelcome we shall not huve the blessed privilege of look- | callers at that moment. ing out at the moon smiling on the pier, and the These men were John Joy and his fellow- laughing water, again, eshall have to wear | schemer, er. a collar that will compress our wind-pipes until | Silence had fallen upon the trio, but it wag we can’t drawa k ng breath without bending | broken by Joy: our heads over back!’ | ‘** Yes, Reyburton; it’s a clear case, You To the box they went, and the world-wanderer | ain’t the legal holder of the family wealth, and was soon enjoying the moon and the river. | a word from us can deprive you of it all, Now “* That’s it,” Jerry replied. “T’ve a fancy for seeing him, Will you take: me there?” Jerry caught at the chance, He wanted Bess to see his new friend, To Attic 10 they went, and Toddles was duly introduced, “*Glad to meet you all!” he declared, his blue eyes gleaming jovially, ‘‘ Jerry’s friends are my friends, anal hope we may be willing to know each other for each other’s suke,” ‘I’m sure it will be a pleasure on our part,’” returned Bess, with her. quaint, womanly air. ‘*Thank you, young lady; may your bright eyes ever beam as kindly upon me!’ ‘* Jerry’s judgment of people is good,” “She roved it by liking you.” Anthony Gray had been looking at the strange caller in a bewildered, steadfast manner. He now spoke in a peculiar voice; “Pardon me, sir, but what did Jerry say your name was{” ** Todales,” it, and rushing to his old saddle, began to slash away at his seat of many years with blows de- livered with nervous strength, CHAPTER XVII. ‘*'m happy, to night,” he observed, it depends upon you to say whether you will ‘* Dm glad o’ that, lose ail or keep the boodle. Pay us well, and your secret is safe,” **Can you prove that the boyis the legal heir?” Reyburton slowly asked, ‘We can prove his identity, and the other’ ‘*Thank you, my hearty. You see,I found my wife and boy, today. Great Scott! you ought to see that boy—and you shall, later. Chip of the old block, I do declare; a regular Toddles, oa a small scale, I’m all right now, | evidence, while not absolute proof, perhaps, api blow high or blow low, I have my family | owing to the absence of Catherine Bartley’s ack.” statement, is lucid enough to involve you in a ‘* Nobody but you an’ them is so glad asI be!” Jerry asserted, mien ‘* Pard, you’rea one; eighteen-carat fine, When I quit this box, I shall not lose track ot you. lLintend to shake off the hard lines of a tramp, and be a good citizen; andI shall always welcome you at my fireside, It will be humble of course, but hearts, not dollars, make the real spirit of home, You’ve beena good Nag re and we want to keep up our intimacy. Eb, my hearty ?” Jerry’s voice was unsteady when he answered. The straightforward, kind manner of his com- panion touched him deeply, What if Toddles losing law-suit, if we let the boy on to the se- did wear rags and call bimself a tramp? He cret,” Thomas Reyburton frowned moodily. ‘shall bave to be convinced as to the boy’s: identity first,” be responded. ‘* That part is easy.” Joy smiled upon the master of the house in @ manner of insolent caver ig He was en- gaged in blackmail, pure and 24 but knew that Reyburton dared not expose bim. At thiv critical point some one opened the door without the ceremony of knocking. Rey- burton looked around angrily, but his reproof rpeainen unspoken when he saw who were here, Maurice came first, but close bebind him were & man and a boy. Their most intimate friends might well have been slow to recognize them, It was Toddles and Jerry, clad in good gar- ments and otherwise improved. The greatest change was in Toddles, who had parted with his beard and two-thirds of his hair. Thechange in him was wonderful, and he might have been mistaken for a bank president, , too, was greatly improved, but he ap- to be bewildered, ‘* Father,” said Maurice, quickly,” I hope you will pardon this intrusion when I explain that we are here to rid you of those blood-seekers, You may safely @ servant and have them had a jolly, whole-hearted way, and, from the beginning of their Sequasatanse, his conduct had been free from that approached what was profane or Vicious, A rare fellow was Toddles, Jerry thought. Conversation went on for half an hour longer. Toddles had found his wife and boy in such uarters that he could not pass the night with them, but he hoped for better things. ‘*T baven’t seen Thomas Reyburton, yet,” he remarked, ‘‘ but I trust I shall be a few dollars richer s another night.” Soundly slept the two friends when once they ang attention tothat pleasure, Inthe morning ey breakfasted together. Then Toddles cats e y comenveds kicked out like the curse that they are!” believe your friend of Attic 10 is named | Joy sprung to his feet ina fury, Anthony Gray?” “6 to apply that term to us again!” he.

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— a a ene Fee eae ce nce ae ees ere pF PR ie Fs ~ ee . . vt } Te eg eae 2 P a tae oe Ss *- Lega Te : rca ta ats nce mate tan encents dinate nema save Tan SAE EN Stee nr a ee ape en eee a ee a Ge ee i otc al RR ge AS OA PF Pe PORT RD | TT Teg TMD eried, ‘‘and I will see you thrown into the street, bag and baggage; and for good and all!” ** How will you do it, boaster?” ‘¢ By proving that youand Thomas Reyburton hold this property unlawfully; by proving that tne real heir isa boy named Edward Reybur- ton!” *' You'ecannot prove it!” “1 ean!” , *{ defy you to do it!” ‘s By tue fiends! I wil/ do it, and make beg- gars of you and your father—unless you pay me bandsomely !” f T'oddles pushed to the front. ‘‘ A vast there!” growled the world-wanderer, in sharp menace. ‘ You’re crazy!” ‘‘ What business is this of yours ?” | Toddles smiled quietly. ‘© Well, I naturally feel interested when you speak of Edward Reyburton, for he is my son. Gentlemen, let me introduce myself—Richard Reyburton, at your service!” Thomas Reyburton fell back in the chair from which he had risen. His face was paler than ever, ‘* Back from the grave!” he gasped. - ‘¢ You see that he recognizes me,” resumed the world-wanderer, still addressing the would-be blackmailers; ‘t and I think you may now retire from thecase. Don’t trouble yourself to espouse the cause of nine-year-old Edward, for 1, his father, will care for him. Joy and Baker, a de- tectiveawaits to escort youto Police Headquar- ters; you are wanted there!” The baffled rascalsstormed and protested, but allin vain. They were taken away, The master of the house had been looking in silent dismay at Richard Reyburton—we will call him Toddies no longer—but he was now ad- dressed by the latter in a voice remarkable for its indifference, ‘¢Thomas Reyburton, I do not think we need to have any scene. You knew when you took the estate that it was not yours, and you have of late plotted to hold your ill-gotten inherit- ance; but your wrong-doing has not been so flagrant of late that 1 am disposed to tarnish the family name by Drosepatiae you publicly. I will let it all drop on one condition.” ‘¢ What is that?’ Thomas asked, in a low voice. i ‘* That you consent to the marriage of your son and Iovella Henderson—” ** Never! never!” almost shouted the old gen- tleman, re: madlyaround, * Vl lieinpris- on until J die ratuer than do that—” ‘*Enough! We will not urge you now, but they will marry just the same, Moreover, the family feud will be dropped. Iam the head of the Reyburton family ; Iovella holds one-half of the big Hendersou prope Let the weak branches fight; themaintrunksof therival trees will quarrel no more. Bab! I hate to speak of it. The quarrel has been ridiculous. Begun by a lawsuit over certain city property it has gone on for several decades, kept alive by mean acts on both sides. Thank heaven, it bids fair to die now.” The speaker turned to Maurice, ‘By assuming my right I not only deprive your father of his ann f, but you of the future succession ; but you and I will never pull in opposite directions, I am sure, ’ ‘When Belknap Reyburton died I was the direct heir, being his nephew, but only one man knew that I was alive, I hed quarreled with theold gentleman, and gone away to be a sailor, Chance led to the incorrect identification of the body of a drowned man as mine. Thomas Reyburton knew of the truth, but he never told any one else; he wrongfully took the property. When years passed and 1 did not appear, he, too, thought me dead. t ‘Really, had become a married man. I, however, remained a rover on sea and land, disdainful of my inheritance. Three years ago my ship was lost and Iwas cast upon Haster I 1 in tho South Pacific. My wife thougbt me dead and came to New York with our boy. Atlast I wasrescued. I hurried here where 1 koew my family had _ preceded me, aud arrived | inrags. For weeks I had beena mere — except that I had a purpose and a hope ir fe.. ‘* Among the Reyburton employees was Cath- erine ley,a very intelligent woman. She chanced to find certain papers which Thomas ak allowed to| exist: they showed that I still lived and was the real heir, She spoke to Thomas, and he fri t a cimid woman, she th ut | and in due time, helpe Good-for-Nothing J erry. hands of one Anthony Gray. He was an ex- lawyer’s clerk and had the Reyburton interests at heart, having long done a humble part of their business; but he was old, irresoluie, and feeble of, body and mind, Instead of making the paper public, be secreted it in a saddle I had once given him and waited for me to return. He has to-day delivered the paper to me, and as it proves—taken in connection with other papers secured by Jerry Higgs from a man named Baker—that the drowned man was not I,J shall have no trouble in proving that lam Rich- ard Reyburton, ‘‘ Jerry Higgsis, really, named Richard Bart- ley. His name waschanged after his mother’s death, when he wasa babe, He was the house- keeper’s son—his faeher died when the boy was an infant—and was named for me,’ When his mother died, Jerry became a waif and experi- enced a hard life. Really, Thomas Reyburton kept track of him, for he thought that Jerry had possession, somewhere, of his mother’s apers. “Recently, Thomas learned of my wife and gon, and, alarmed lest they should find Jerry, he went to the Jones family and hired them to send Jerryaway, hoping he might leave New York, or be lost tosight. This wasdone, though a visit by Joy to the Joneses has since shown them their fatal blunder in breaking with their bootblazk slave. | ‘* But, it was the best thing that ever happen- ed to Jerry when he was sent adrift, It was the means of his meeting both Maurice Reyburton and myself; he has done us great favors, and in my heart he has to-day a place second only to se! own child and my wife!” tepping forward, Richard laid his hand on Jerry’s shoulder, ‘* My hearty, vou and I part only when one of us dies, No more shall we sleep in the box on the pier, but we can see the moon and the twink- ling waters from a fairer point of view. I see in you, Richard Bartley—I think I shall still call you Jerry—the making of a fine man, and my purse will always be open to you. An edu- cation will be the next thing in order, and then you shajl conquer the world under my guid- ance, backed, if need be, by my money!” : ‘¢ Mr. Reyburton, you’re very good!” faltered erry, ‘+ Avast, my hearty! Give me only my due. We las pards in rags; let us be pards in pros- perity. ; The speaker turned to Maurice, ‘* Friend, [ have robbed you of an inheritance, but eur name and our blood are the same, Shall wo remain good friends?” ‘‘@Qlodly !’ Maurice declared, ‘‘ You are wel- come to the Reyburton property. What I in- herited from my mother leaves me still rich, Let us be friends in name and deed!” They clasped hands, and then Richard Rey- burton reached out and took that of Jerry. ‘* And let us both be friends to this brave, modest and intelligent boy!” he said, very ear- nestly, ; \ ‘* We will, to the end!” Maurice declared. And Jerry, his heart too full for utterance, looked up through his happy tears to see two kind faces smiling upon him. They did not think him a ah Doetrag and he was no longer a football of fortune. Tho end can be foreseen. Luther Henderson, Baker and Joy were sent to Fst : he Jones family lived in poverty and misery, dividing their spare time between bewailing the fact that they had sent Jerry away, andthe other stern fact that they had to take to work, themselves, or starve. They did the one and almost did the other, eee -Thomas Reyburton lived his remaining years unmolested, but Wasa sour, disappointed man, When Maurice and Iovella were married, be would not attend the ceremony, and, hating the Hendersons as much as ever, lived apart from all his kin. a Gray was made comfortable durin the rest of his days, and when he died, Richa Reyburton took charge of Bess and reared her as carefully as he did Jerry. After marriage, Maurice and Iovella lived in peace and happiness, Richard Wext Half-Dime Library, No. 856, The Boothlack Stowaway BROADWAY BILLY'S BLIND. Whe Secret of the Banker’s Buried Booty. BY J..C. COWDRICK. The queerest of queer yarns! It is Billy against the field— Billy and the Gamin, ** Tickets!» Rival yachts and embittered foes! An ocean race for a huge loot! Whe Revelation ofa 40 years’ mystery! A wond:riul double detective exploit! Rilliy’s transformation act! A case that astonished Chief Byrnes. All these elements enter into this singular sto and make it, of course, one of the “telling” kind, remarkable that, once read, will not soon be forgotte:; so let every admirer of the glorious Billy “be in it” in this deal! Beadle's Dime Library. BY NED BUNTLINE, 14 Thayendanegea,the Scourge; or, The War-Kagle. 16 The White Wizard; or, The Seminole Prophet, 18 The Sea Bandit; or, The Queen of the Isle. 23 The Red Warrior; or, The Comanche Lover. 61 Captain Seawaif, the Privat-er. 111 The Smuggler Captain; or, The Skipper’s Crime. 122 Saul Sabberday, the Idiot Spy. 270 Andros, the Rover; or, The Pirate’s Daughter, 361 Tombstone Dick, the Train Pilot. 517 Buffalo Bill’s First Trail. MISCELLANEOUS, 6 Wildcat Bob. By Edward L. Wheeler. 9 Handy Andy. By Samuel Lover. 10 Vidoeq, the French Police Spy. By himself. 11 Midshipman Easy. Py Captain Marryatt. 32 B'hoys of Yale: or, The Scrapes of Collegians. By John D. Vose. ; \ 60 Wide Awake, the Robber King. By F. Dumont, 68 The Fighting Trapper. By Capt. J. F.C. Adams. 76 The Queen’s Musketeers. By George Albany. 78 ‘The Mysterious Spy: By Arthur M. Grainger. 102 The Masked Bard. By George L. Aiken. 110 The Silent Rifleman. Py H. W, Herbert, 125 The Blacksmith Outlaw. By H. Ainsworth. 133 Rody the Rover. By William Carleton. 140 The Three Spaniards. By Geo, Walker, 144 The Hunchback of Notre Dame. By Victor Hugo. 146 The Doctor Detective. By George Lemuel, 152 Captain Ironnerve, the Counterfeiter Chief, 158 The Doomed Dozen, By Dr. Frank Powell, 166 Owlet, the Robber Prince. By S$. R. Urban. 179 Conrad, the Convict. By Prof, Gildersleeve. 190 The Three Guardsmen. Bre peo Dumas. 261 Black Sam, tLe Prairie Thunderbolt. By Col, Jo Yards, } 275 The Smuggler Cutter. By J. D, aa 312 Kinktoot Karl, the Mountain tcourge. By Mor- ris Redwing. y ; 830 Cop Colt,the Guaker City Detective. By C, Morris, 850 Flash pelea the Society Detective. By Weldon J.C » CODD, ) . 353 Bart Brennan; or, The King of Straight Flush, . By John Cuthbert. 366 The» Telegraph Detective. By George Henry Morse. 410 Sarah Brown, Detective. By K. F. Hill. 500 The True-Heart Pards, By Dr. Noel Dunbar. 518 Royal Richard, the Thoroughbred. By J. W. « ‘Osbon, ; _ Be 584 Green Mountain Joe; or, The Counterfeiterg = Cave. By Marmaduke Dey. . 542 The Ocean’ Drift or, The Fight for Two Lives, By A, F. Holt. \ 545 Hustler Harry, the Cowboy Sport; or, Daring Dan Shark’s General Delivery. By William G, Patten. \ an! A new issue every Wednesday, E Beadle’s Dime Library is for sale by Publishers, 98 William Street, New York, — Pa 2 Newsdealers, ten cents per copy, or sent by mail on ita receipt of twelve cents each. BEADLE & ADAMS — ao Sa

Page 15

MD, ie BY ©LL COOMER. | Old Kit Bandy, Detective. 246 Kit Bandy, Detective; or, Silver Star, the Boy Knight. 168 Kit Bandy tn ‘Texas; or, The Young Mustanger, R08 Kit Bandy’s Catch; or, The Boy Hercules. 422 Kit Bandy’s Right Bower; or, Buby Sam,the Boy Giant 444 Kit Bandy’s Swoop} or, Littio Buckskin, tue Centaur, | 478 Kit Bandy’s Slick Scheme; or, Old Tom Rattler. 661 Kit Bandy’s Deliverance; or, Banner Ban. 680 Kit Bandy’s Pard; or, Dauntless Dan, the Freelance. 79l Kit Bandy Rattledy or, The Iniant Giant. 795 Ki Bandy in Red iguin; or, The Young Whirlwind, 799 5 80 > Kit Bandy’s Big Ruatle; or, Saddle King Sam. 4 Kit Bandy’s Brigade; or, Dan, the Mountain Guide. oe Jack Drew, Detective. eS 258 Jack Drew, the Nemesis, or, Eagle Kit. the Boy Demon. yi? 282 Jack Drew’s Drep; or, Littie Hurricane, the Boy Captain, 1 202 Jack Drew In Deadwood; or, Prospect Pete. 5 : Keen-Kuife. 27 Keen Knife on Guard; or, Antelope Abe, the Boy Guide. 81 Keen-Knife, the Prince of the Prairies. Other Novela by OU Coomes, 5& Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. 18 Vhe Dumb Spy. coe 41 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. eta 68 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. ae foe 1 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. ot enk-ere Marry the Young Trapper Ranger. 88 Rollo, the Bo Hangers or, The Heiress, 184 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman. 248 Scar-F ace Saul, the Silent Hunter 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. me 218 Tyrer Tom, the Texas Terror. AY Fi 224 Dashing Dick; or, Trapper Tom’s Castle, Me 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad, pou 88 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Disguised Guide}; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger, 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 2T2 Minkakin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. 290 Little Foxtire, the Boy Spy; or, Old Culeb Arbuckle. 800 The Sky Demon; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger. 884 Whip-King Joe, the 8c7 Ranchero, 409 Ihercules; vr, Dick, the Poy Ranger. A1lZ Webroot Mose, the he gy Detective. 457 Wingedtoot Fred 3 or, Old Polar Saul, 468 Tamarac Tom, the Big Trapper Boy. 482 Stonewall Bob, the Boy Troian, 662 Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper, 652 Don Barr, the Plains Freelance, 670 Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer, 78 Highland Harry, the Wizard Rifleman, Rs BY T. O. WARBAUGH. 28 Nick o’ the Night; or, Thr Boy Spy of ’76. 87 The Hidden Lodge; or The Littl Hunter, 47 Nightingale Nat; or, Tne Forest Captains, 64 Dand ack} or, The Outlaws of the Oregon Trails. 82 Kit Warefoot, the Wood-Hawk; or, Old Powder-face. 94 Midnight Jack ; or, The Boy Trapper, 196 Old Frasty, the Guide; or, The White Queen. 928 Kiowa Charley the White Mustanger. ano J eh ge Lynch Jr.3 or, The Boy Vigilante, 155 Gok ‘Trigger, the Sport; or, The Girl Avenger. 169 Tornado Tom; or, Injun Jack From Red Core. 188 Ned Temple, the Border Boy; or, The Mad Hunter. 298 Arkanaaw ; or, The Quen of Fate’s Revenge. 207 Navajo Nick. the Boy Gold Hunter. “R15 Captain Rullet; or, Little Topknot’s Crusade, 281 Plucky Phil; or, Rosa, the Re’ Jezebel, 241 Billi Bravo; or, The Roughs of the Rockies, 255 Captain Apoli-, tne King-Pin of Bowle, 267 The Buckskin Detective; or, The King of Road-agents. 279 Old Winch; or, The Buckskin Desperados, 294 Dynamite Dan; or, TUWBowle Blade of Gochetopa. BOR e¢ Mountain Detective; or, The Trigger Bar Bully. B16 Old Eclipse, Trump Card of Arizona, $26 The Ten Pardsy: or, The Terror of Take-Notice. $86 Big Benson; or, The Queen of the Larso. 94 EiGleas Matt et Ked Mp tel Secret. ool am snd Pard gs or e Terrible Six, 866 Velvet Foot, the Indian Detective. 886 Captain Cutlass; or, | he B ccaneer’s Girl Foe, B96 Rough Rob ; or, The twin Champions of Blue Blazes. 411 The Silken Lasso; or, The Rose of Ranch Robin. 418 Felix Fox, the Boy Spotter; or, The Gold Gang of New York. 425 Texas Trump, the Border Rattler, 486 Phil Flash, the New Yori Fox; or, The Myster> of Room 21, 445 The City Vampires; or, Red Rolfe’s Pigeon,” 461 One Against Fifty; or, The Last Man of Keno Bar, 470 The Boy Shadow; or, Felix Fox’s Hunt. 477 The Exceisior Sport; or, The Washington Spotter. 499 Single Sight, the One-Eyed Sport, 602 Branded Ben, the Night Ferret. jodger Dick’s Best Dodge; or, The Got} Id . 628 Fox and Fuicon, the Bowery Shadows. eee Cates k's Sto , 682 Dodger Dick’s Drop; or, The Man from Ja n $10 Old Skinner, the Gold Shark; or, Tony Shor G B $26 The Champion Pards; or, The Lakie'c thal ilver Bar, 685 Happy sugh, the Boy Mustcian Detective, q fk 4 Bi Rily BY BUOKSKIN 8AM (Major Sam. 8, Hall.) ss) 284 or, The Tarantula of Taos, 03 or, The Red and White Pardes, redt > tin Radars or, The Siege of Fort Pargatory. e nree 3 or, The Three Thunderbolts. 1113 or. Frio Frank to the Front. fetle 1 and the Reda; or, The Beleaguered Ranch, a ¢ Lariat; or, Pecan Pete’s Big Rampage, The Thee een er: Old Rocky on the Rampage, c c as oO L ste hese de be Lon a wha ; 4 Cache Carl, the Ch Sigh agi orth Bal Oe) ‘ \ BEADLE’S« H ALF-])IME* Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, No Double Numbers. 4 LIBRARY. Wat pb t Pe. av ae ae -, age ™ eee Siw eth ee y a ae j gee ODS Me 7. y r a « TY t ¥ é! Pd ns , ak elk " Os a ot 5 ery BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, 11 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes ofa Bowery Girl, 76 Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. %Y9 Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 268 Joe Kuck of Angels and His Boy Para, 447 New York Nat. A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham, 458 New England Nick; or, The Fortunes of a Foundling. 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince, 498 T'nos Ted, toe Arizona Sport. 510 Oool Colorado, the Hall-Breed Detective, 518 Cool Colorado in New York; or, The Cowboy’s Fight. BY GEORGE 0, JENKs, 455 Git Thar Owney the Unknown, 492 Git Thar Owney’s Pledge. 618 The Demon Doctor; or, Deadhold, the Kid Detective, 5S1 DPouble-Curve Dan, the Pitcher Detective, 5S lute, the Singer Detective; or, Owney In a New Role, 608 The Pitcher Detective’s Polls or, Dan's Double Play, 616 The Ocean Detectives or, The Last Cruise ofthe Black Bear, 681 Vhe Pitcher Detective’s Toughest Tussle. 786 Larry the Thoroughbred; or, Beaten on Every Side, @79 Lron Mand, the Charmed Detective BY CHARLES MORRIS, 118 Will Somers, the Boy Detective, 122 Phil flardy, the Boss Boy. Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detective. Detective Dick 3 or, The Hero in Rage. Iandsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective, WH Wildfire, the Thoroughbred. Black Leas, Will Wildfire’s Racer, Mike Merry the Harbor Police Boy. Will Wildfire in the Woods. Billy Baggage, the Railroad Boy. A Vrump Card 3 or, Will Wildfire Wins and Loses lob Rockett; or, Mysteries of New York, Bob feexety, the Bank Runner, The Midden Hands or, Will Wildfire’s Revenge. Fred Malyard, the Life Boat Boy; or, The Smugglers, Bob Rockett; or, Driven‘to the Wall. 196 Shadowed ; or, Bob Kockett’s Fight for Life, 206 Dark Paul, the Tiger King. 212 Dashing Daye, the Dandy Detective. 220 ‘Yom Tanner}; or, The Black Sheep ot the Flock, 225 Sam Charcoal the Premium Darky. 235 Shadow Sam, the Messenger Boy, 242 The Two * Bloods”; or, Shenandoah Bill and His Gang, 252 Dick Dashaway ; or, A Dakota Boy in Greate 262 Tho Young Sharps: or, Rollicking Mike’s Hot Tratl 274 Jolly Jim, the Detective Apprentice. 289 Jolly Jim’s Job; op, The Young Detective. 298 The Water-Hound; or, The Young Thoroughbred, 805 Dashaway, of Daketay or, A Western Ladin Quaker City, $24 Ralph Ready, the Hotel Boy Detective. 841 1 ony Thorne, the Vagabond Detective. 855 The Reporter-Detective; or, Fred Flyers Blizzard, Wide-Awake Joe; or, A Boy of the Times, Larry, the Leveler; or, The Bloods of the Boulevard, Firetly Jack, the River-Rat Detective. y Che Lost linger; or, The Entrapped Cashier. 428 Fred Flyer, the Reporter Detective. 482 Invincible Logan, the Pinkerton Ferret, 456 Billy Brick, the Jolly Vagavond. 466 Wide-Awake Jerry, Detective; or, Entombed Alive. 479 Detective Dodge; or, The Mystery of Frank Hearty. 488 Wild Dick Racket; or, How He Fought for Honor, 501 Roots, the Boy Fireman ; or, Too Sharp for the Sharper, 566 The Secret Service Boy Detective. 596 Jimmy the Kid; or, 4. Lamb Among Wolves. 627 Tom Bruce ot Arkananay or, The Wolf in the Fold, 655 Plucky Paul, the Boy Speculator. 667 Bob and Sam, the Daisy Detectives. Z09 The Curbstone Detective; or, Harry Hale’s Big Beat. %57 Detective Frank’s Sweep-stakes, BY J. W. OSBON. 469 The Rival Glants of Nowhay,’ 498 Cactus Burr, the Man fie Hard Luek, 587 Old Buckeye, tho Sierra Shadow. 564 Powder Phil, the Boy Miner; or, The Man Without a Past. 609 Bolly Dorrit, the Veteran Detective. ’ 620 Little Lightning’s League; or, The Mystery of tne Island 688 Plucky Paul, the Boy Prospector, 761 Gold-Dust Dan, the Trail Patrol. 755 Gold Dust Dan’s Oath; or, Keckless Roy, the Regulator. BY JO PIEKOR, B97 Bob 0” the Bowery ; or, The Prince of Mulberry Street. 415 Tho Vagabond Detectives or, Bowery Bob's Boom, 45% potvepur Bob, the Street-Boy Detective, 460 The Lawyer’« Shadow; or Luke’s Legacy. 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horse-King. 494 Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective, 504 Five Points Phil, the Pavement Prince, 509 Jack Jagwers, the Butcher Boy Detective. 516 Tartar Tims or, Five Points Phil’s Menagerie, 626 North River Nat, the Pler Detective. 6838 Wrestling Rex, the Pride of the Sixth Ward. BSL Nick Nettle; the Boy Shaler eave Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow; or, The Old Well M 4 pre ae J agus by Ooe Boy Detective. gah rooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook Detecth 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, Agia 688 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector, GOR Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer, 614 Whistling Jacoh, the Detective’s Aid, 628 Buck Bumblebee, the Harlem Hummer, ryt Suririee, paul, ne robin At Ferret. f amin Bob, the Bowery Badger; or, Scoopin lppery Set, G58 Aley-Rocket Rob, the Lite Saver’ ohne * Slippery & 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator 694 &picy Jim, the Only One of His Kind, 706 Tom Thistle, the Rond-House Detective. Z17 Mosquito Jack, the Hustler Gamin. ‘ Mid SRO Bent be el ae el eh a eel nes ZHENNIAIAS — 226 Dennis Dulf_the Brown Sport's Kid, T44 Dick of the Docks, the Night-W 7 £0 Floss Sir giaieiea oxy Fred’s O¢ ard; or, The K 9 tle, 731 Cast-OfF Cale, the Senpegoat Detective ih as 888 Little Oh-my ¢ or, Caught in Hi Trap, ittle Shoo-Fly : or, yt Rate agit, le Leather- 0 Three Jolly Pards; or, The Pets of Pefayy Joe ‘ard’s Cam & Lariat Lil; or, The Cast for « Life. 4 bn Wearel-tops the Man with the Dogs. xP. Y Dandy the NaName Sport. 618 Billy Blazes; or, The Skeleton’ re hg Lil the Blue-Coat Seon basi appy Horry’ Ri piem or, The Beautifal Jesebs). Charley the Special. eonts por eopy, or sent by mail on receipt of six cents each, eo BY JOSEPH EY BADGER, JR, f b 2 Yellowstone duck 7 or, The Trapper. 48 Black John, the Road-Ayent; er, The Outlaw’s Retreat, 65 Wurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard, my 119 Mustang Sami 3 or, The King of the Plains. \ 186 Night-lLinwk Kit; or, ‘lhe Daughter of the Ranch, | 144 Datnty Lance the Boy Sport, 151 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Reseus, e 160 The Black Giant; or, Duinty Lance in Jeopardy, J 168 Dendly Dash; or, Fighting Fire with Fire, { 184 The Boy Trallers; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path, LY 208 The Boy Pardays or, Dainty Lance Unmaska, ‘ 211 Crooked Caley the Caliban of Celestial City, 4 810 The Barranca Woll's or, The Beautiful Decoy, ag 819 The Black Ride; or, The Horse-Thievew’ League, ‘ual B85 Old Double Fist; or, ‘The Strange Guide } 855 The King of the Woods: or Danel Boone’s Last Trall «( 4419 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective ty 625 Chincapio Dan, the Toy Traller, | Trail. : ‘ 9 Silverblade, the Half-Blood; or, The Border Beagle at Bay, x z 9 Silverblade, the Hostile; or, The Border Beag!e’a Trall, 8 Silverblade the Friendly; or, The Border Beagle’s Boy Paré F BY EDWARD WILLETT, A 167 Asa Scott, the Steamboat Boy; or, The “isslasippl Pirates, 199 Featherweight the Boy Champion 01 the Muskingum, 225 Ovark Alf’; or, Featherweight Among the Outlaws, i 282 The Type Detective; or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp, 295 Fearless Phil; or, The King of Quartzville, 811 The Roving Sport; or, The Pride of Chuckaluck Camp, io 822 Nemo, the Tneleotives ot, Kit Kenyon's Vendetta, 4 840 Olip the Contortiontat: or, The Montana Vigilantes, BY JACK FARRAGUT. ' 815 Ned, the Cabin Boys or, The Witch of the Fort ; 820 The Sea Sorceress; or, ‘I'he Boy Skipper. BY Last arts H. D. PERRY, U. 8. N. 176 The Boy Runaway; or, The Buccaneer of the Bay, 180 The Sea Tratler: or, A Vow Well Kept. a 192 Captain Kit; or, The Myster) of Montauk Point, k BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID, ay 78 Blue Dior s or, The Yellow Chief’s Vengeunce. $ 87 The Land Pirates; or, The League of Devils Island, 187 The Helpless Handy; or, Backwouds Retribution, 289 The Gold-secker Guldet or, The Lost Mountain, BY OAPT, ALFRED B. TAYLOR WU. 8. Ae ‘ 191 Buffalo Billy, the Boy Bullwhacker. 194 Buffalo Bill’s Bet; or, The Gambler Guide. am \ RY CAPT, MARK WILTON, 256 Young Kentucky; or, The Red Lasso. 270 Bitzzard Bens or, The Riot at Keno Camp, 256 Jouh, the Boy Tendertfoot. BY MAJOR E, L. ST. VRAIN, f ; 292 Sancho Pedro, the Boy Bandit, \ 801 Lendville Nick, the Boy Sport, | , 812 Kedtop Rube, the Vigilante Prince, : 888 Brimatone Bob, and His Lightning Horse Quartette, 852 Tombstone Tom, the Arizona Boy of Sand,” B59 Durango Dave, the Young Champion Wrestler 871 Kingbolt Chris, the Young Hard-Shell Detective, saat | 8S0 Avalanche Alf, the Foothills Guide. rs 890 Jaguar Joe, of the Mountain Mail-Line, . BY EDWARD 8. ELLIS, 6 Bul Biddon, Traepers 8 Seth Jones; or, The Captives of tue Frontler, °30 Nat Todd; or, The Fato of the Sloux Captive. y ry ‘Ss '‘vne Frontier Angel, 44 98 The Boy Miners; or, The Enchanted Island, 2 182 The ilunted Wunters or, The Strange Horseman, ila 7 254 The Half-Blood; or, The Panther of the Plains, : 271 The Huge Munter ; or, The Steam Prairle Man, : MISQOELLANEOUS AUTHORS, ayy oe 4 The Wild-Morse Munters, By Capt, Mayne Reid and i Frederick Whittaker, Po. 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen, f 12 Gulliver's Travels. By Dean Swift, y, 14 Aladdin; or, The Wonderiul Lamp, “Ae 1 Orusoe, (27 Ulustrations.) is sodbad the Sallor. His Seven Voyages, / 22 The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinsoa Crusoe, By Juan Be Lewis. 88 The Ocean Bloodhound; or, The Red Pirates of the Covelbagm Jens £ oe , Q By f 8. 1 pS) vy owns or, The Arena Queen. . Finn. rhs Ned Wilde the Boy Boout. By Texas aaa bl The Boy Trivers or, Tho Underground Camp. By A. C.lrona, my 95 The Rival eovars ; or, The Freebooters of the Misalsaippts { ' B eut.-QOol, . 98 Robin Hood, the Outlawed Key); or, The Merry Men of Greene fs wood, By Prof, Gildersleove. Ky 105 gic Re e, the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive, By Captate ‘ \ ton Titanate ‘hee ; 112 The Mad Hunter; or, ' be Cave o! by we By Burton Saxe, ; By George 124 Tippy, the Texan or, The Young Champ jepson, 128 The Young Privateer; or, The Pirate’s Stronghold, By Jp ae Harry Cavendish, . : 148 Sharp Sam; or, The Adventures or a Friendless Boy, By J, ure Alexander Patten, j ; ran 227 Puaky Darrell, Trapper; or, The Green Ranger of the Yol- » lowstone, re Lage neg Sra ¥ Si pe Gri. Aties 261 Fergus Fearnaught the New Y irk Boy. . le 266 itibar, the Guides or, Davy Crocheti’s Crooked Trail, : By Ensign ©. D, Warren, ‘ 298 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid ot the Cliff, fae By Captain Comstock. 817 Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadville, By Ben tenant Alfred Thorne. 828 The Bky Deteetives or, A Boy's Fight for Life and Honos, met By Maior Mickey Free. ; bi 850 Red Ralph, the River Rovers or, The Brother’s Re . | BGS Haltimere Thea the Hootblack Detgctive: By A.B. Merrias Na altimore Ren the Bootblack De “ . : i 74 Gold-Duat Tom: or, Ben’s Double Match, @ H, Morse, 76 galirernia Joes First Trail, By Colone) Thomas ee oyer Monastery, y 418 Billy Rombahcell, the Cliff Climber. By F.8. Winthrop, he Black Ships By John 8 Warner, - ait Comanche Dick and IMix ‘Three Invinetbles By enry J. Thomas. Y 532 The Cowboy Duke. By Edwin Brooke Forrest, oh ph rlol the Athlete, By David Drah, 585 Will Waters, the Bov Ferret. By li. Enton, } 682 The Dead Wetective’s Double, By Gerald ¢ x ‘aylton, 721 Maverick Mouse, the Arizona Detective; or, The Wizard Urko» Pass, By WH! Lisenbee. in 809 Don Danton, the Gent from Denver, By King Keone, of the aye U, 8. Seeret Service Corpa. ‘ Be A New Insue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdealers, Ave \ BEADLE ANP ADAMS, Pubitchers 3

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Published Every BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela, Dick, the Prince of the Road. Dick’« Deflance; or, Double Daggers. Dick in Disguise; or, Butfad. Ben 1 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 85 Deadwood Dick in His Caatle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; 0, The Phaatom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omana Oll. 57 Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity 4 ine, the Heroine 77 Deadweod Diek’s Last Aetis or, Corduroy Charlie. 100 Deadwood Dick in Leadville, 104 Deadwood Dick’s Device; or, The Double Cross Sign, 109 Deadwood Dick aa Detective. Dick’s Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. Dick’s Home Kase; or, Blonde Bill. Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. Dick of Deadweed: or, The Picked Party, 129 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 195 Deadwood Diok’« Dreamy or, The Rivals of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. 205 Deadwood Dick’s Doom: or, Calamity Jane’s Adventure, 217 Deadwood Dick’s Dead Deal. 221i Deadwood Dick’s Death-Plant. 282 Gold-Duat Bick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughs, 268 Deadwood Dick’s Divides or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. B68 Deadwood Dick’s Death Trail. 809 Deadwood Dick’« Deals or, The Gold Brick of Oregon, 821 Deadwood Dick's Dozent or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats 847 Deadwood Dick’s Ducata; or, Daya in the Diggings. 861 Deadwood Dick Sentenced; or, The Terrible Fendetts, 262 Deadwood Dick’s Claim, 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonds, 421 Deadwood Dick in New York} or, A “Cute Case.” 480 Deadwood Dick’s Dust; or, The Chained Hand, 448 Deadwoed pene ¢ ar or a Crimson Crescent Sign. eadwoo ok, dr.’a, Delunce. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’6 Full Hand, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Big Reund-Up. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Racket at Claim 10, pongwoed picks Fa Corres or, oa Bill. cadwoo ok ra o etective. Deadwood Dick, dr.» in Deadw tt ‘i Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Compact, peagweed pa Jr.’s, Inheritance, cadweed Gk, uge, Deadweed Dick, Rerneas. Deadwoed Dick, J Deadwood Dick, J Deadweod Dick, Deadweed Peadweed Deadwoed Deadwood Deadwoed 1 Deadwoed Deadweoed Deadweod Deadweed dr., Afloat. Deadweod Dick, Jr., in Denver. Deadweed Dick, Jr.'s, Decree. paadweed bo 5 Me “4 A colsebub’s Begin. eadwoo ek, Jr., at Coney Island, Deadweod Dick, dr.’s, Leadville Lay. Deadweed Dick, Jr., in Detrolt. Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinnatl, Deadweod Dick, Jr., In Nevada, Deadweod Dick, Jr., In No Man’s Land, Deadweod Dick, Jr., After the Queer. Deadweod Dick, Jr., in Buffalo. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Chase Acrous the Continent posdused Dicks $10 Muentenco Gane oadwoo ky Jase, Deadwood Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines. Deadwoed Dick, Jr., (2 Durango; or, “ Gathered In.” peadwee pet + Thy Rasererss or, Found a Fortune, eadwood Dick, Jr.’s. Dazzle. : Deadwood Dick, Jdr.’s. Dollara. pend wees mien? 5 a? at Danger Divide, eadweo ok, Jr.’«, Drop. Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. Dendwoed Dick dry in San Francisco, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Still Hunt, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Dominoes, Deadwoed Dick, Jr.’s, Diaguise Deadweod Pick, Jr.’s, Double Deal Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathwatch. Dendwoed Dick, Jr.’s, Doublet. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathblow. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Desperate Strait. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Lone Hand, Peadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Defeat. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Resurrection. Deadwood ‘’, Dark Days, = Re ee SoS Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood DeWrFeWeIolelodeledeyodeleIe} BUBNGSSRRERISH HO — ht 2 he ho BY WM, G@ PATTEN, Vane, the Velvet Spors; or, The Jubliee of Jacktown, Vane’a Victory; or, The Jasper City Cleaa Out. and Datay, the Peay Pards. Vane’s Vow; or, The Cratty Detective’s Craft. Vane'’s Vengeance; or, The Wipe-Ont, Violet Vane’s Verdiet; or, The Game at Coffin City. Violet Vane, the Ventriloquist Vidocg; or, Sport vs. Sport. » Violet Vane, the Vanquished; or, The Lite Strugg'e. B Violet Vane’s Vision; or, The Fiery Hand of Fate. The IMamond Sport} or, The Double Fuce of Bed Rock, Captain Mystery 3 or, Five in One. Dale Ware the Sport from Denver. ONT Old hombahell, the Ranger Detective. GOA Iron Fern, the Mun of Fire; or, Among the Vultures, €19 The Boy Tramp Detective: or. Tha Doubie Grip Witness 641 Dismal Dave’a Dandy Pard; or, The Clue to Capt. Claw 651 Bound Boy Frank, the Young Amateur Detective 682 Wihid Vulcan; the Lone-Range Rider, q14 Old Misery the Man from Missourl, 774 Clear-Grit Cal, the Never Say-Die Detective. 2789 Sam Sheridan, the Secret Service Special. 806 Cowboy Steve the Ranch Mascot, #820 Nobby Nat, the Tenderfoot Detective, 886 Sharper Stoke’s Double Deal. BY OOL. A. F. HOLT, #17 Wideawake, the Train-boy Detective. 811 Headlight Harry’s Flyer; or, Duke Derby, 678 Headlight Narry’s Hasard. 691 Headlight Harry’s Maul; or, The Railroad Pards, 727 Headlight Harry’s Sireu; or, Mad Madge. 7569 Headlight Warry’s Uoritage. aoe Headlight Harry’s Hunt; or, The Cache of Gold. 9 Black Buekskiny or, The Masked Men of Death Canyon, 419 Kenneth, the Knife-King: or, The Doomed Six. 485 Little Lightfeet, the Pilot of the Woods, Violet Vialet Violet T0b Violet q Violet The Dandy Sport; or, Tho King Pin Conspirator. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight, 84 Rosebud Kob on Hand; or, [dy], the Girl Miner. 88 Rosebud Kob’s DEappperanets or, Photograph Phil. 121 Rosebud Rob’s Challenge; or, Cinnamon Chip, 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee’s Surround 281 Denver Doll's Vietory; or, Skul! and Crossbones, 255 Denver Doll’s Decoy ; or. Littie Bill’s Bonanzn. sae Ponser Bane Drift; or, The Road Queen. preka Jim, the Gold-Gutherers or, Thy Life Lo Cs 873 Yreka Jim’s Prise; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. eae B85 Yreka Jim's srnert or, The Rivals of Red Nose, 889 Yreka Jim’s New Roles or, bicycle ben. 804 Yreka Jim of Yube Dam, 2UY I'ritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game, 218 Fritz to the Frent; or, The Vuntriloguist Hunter 244 Slerra Sam, the Frontier Ferret; or, A Sister’s Devotion, 245 Sierra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints. 258 Sierra Sawm’s Pardy or, The Angel of Big Vista, 258 Sierra Sam’s Seveny or, The Stwlen Bride. Kangaree Kit; er, The Mysterious Mi

158 Fancy Frank of Colo The Trapper’ ‘a Truat. BEADLE'’S«H ALF- DIME«T_IBRARY. Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. (re a BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, X44 Dick Doom’s Doath-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny. 77 Dick Doom’s Destiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror, 784 Dick Doom} or, The Shaxps and Sharks of New York, 78s Dick Doom in Boston; or, A Man of Many Masks, 798 Dick Doom tu Chiengo. 798 Dick Doom in the Wild Weat. 808 Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep} or, Five Links in a Clue. 808 Dick Doom’s Death Chie. S18 Dick Doom’s Diamond Deal. $19 Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot, S29 Dick Doom’s Shadow Hunt. 885 Dick Doom’s Big Haul. 749 Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trai. TSé Dashing Charlie’s Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive. 760 Dashing Charlie’s Pawnee Pard. 766 Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer. 497 Buck Taylor, King ot the Cowboys. 787 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. 748 Buck Taylor's Boys; or, The Red Riders of the Rio Grande. 560 Pawnee BIL, the Prairie Shadower. 718 Paw nee Hilly or, Carl, the Mad Cowboy. T19 Pawile Bill's Pledge; or, The Cowboy's Doom %25 Pawnee Bill; or, Daring Dick. 692 Redteru’s Curious Case; o1, The Rival Sharps. 697 Redfern at Devil's Ranch; or, The Sharp from Texas, TOR Redferu’s High Hand; or, Blue Jacket. ZO? Redfern’s Last Trail; or, The Red Sombrero Rangers, 668 Red Ralph's Huses or, The Buccaneer Midshipman, GT4 Red Ralph’s Bold Game; or, The Wizard Sailor. 679 Red Ralph, the Shadower; or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. 644 Butterfly Billy’s Disguise. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony Express Rider, 656 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt, 662 Butterfly Billy’s Benanza. 665 Kent Kingdon; or, The Owls of the Overland. 570 Kent Kingdon’s Shadower } or, the Card Queen, 575 Kent Kingden’s Duel; or, The Surgeon Scout, 686 Kent Kingden’s Deewm; or, The Buckskin Avenger. 545 Lafitte Rum Dewn; or, The Buancers of Burrataria, 550 Lalfitte’s Legacy; or. The Avenging Son. 555 Latitte’s Comfecsion 3 or, The Creole Corsair. 520 Buckskia Bill, the Comanche Shadow. 525 The Buckskin Brothers in Texas, 680 The Buckskin Bowers; or. The Cowboy Pirates. 585 The Buckskin Rovers; or, The Prairie Fugitive. 540 The Buckskin Pardes’ Queat; or, Captuin Ku-Kinx, 508 The Royal Middy 5 or, The Shark and tne Sea Car 507 The Royal Middy’s Luck; or, The Huntea Midshipman, $11 Vhe Royal Middy’s Foe, 450 Wizard Will or, The Boy Ferret 01 New York. 454 Wizard Will's Street Bcouta, 474 Wizard Will's Pard; or, Flora, the Flower Girl 488 Wizard WIL1l'’s Laat Casey or, The Ferrets Aflvnt. 429 Duncan Dare, the Boy Refugee. 488 Duncan Dare’s Plot; or, A Cabin Boy’s Luck. 4847 Duncan Dare’s Prizes or, The Sea Raider 441 Duneam Dare’s Secreti or, The Ocean Firefly. 402 Inodor, the Young Conmspirator: or, The Fata) League. 407 Isodor’s Double Chase; or, The Boy Insurgent. 412 Inodor’s War-Cloud Cruise; or, The Wild Yachtaman. #216 Hiaon BAL, the Prince of the Reins, 222 Bison Bill's Clue; or, Grit, the Bravo Sport, BOA Dead Shot Dandy’s Dilemma. 808 Dead Shot Dandy’s Deuble; or, Kero Kit. 814 Dead Shot Dandy’s Defiance; or. The Boy Bugler, 607 Dead Shot Dandy’s Obief; or, The River Detective, 245 Merle Monte’s Leap for Life. 250 Merle Monte’s Mutiny ¢ or, Brandt, the Boccanwer. 264 Merle Monte’s Treasure Teland. 26) Merle Monte the Condemned. 276 Merle Monte’s Crulse; or, * The Gold Ship” Chase. 280 Merle Monte’s Fate; or, The Pirate's Pride 284 Merle Monte’s Pledge: or. The Sea Marauder. 197 The Kid Glove Sport ; or, Little Grit, the Wild Rider, 204 Vhe Kid Glove Spert’s Doom; or, Buffalo Bill, the Pony Exy reas Rider, 825 Marlo, the Cowboy Coaster, 781 Ruth Redmond, the Girl Shadower. 686 Orlando, the Ocean Free Flag. 617 Ralph, the Dead-Shot Scout, 602 The Vagabond ofthe Mines, ' The Texan Detective; or, The Black Bravos. Delmonte, tie Young Sea- Rover; or, The Avenging Sailor, The Outcast Cadet; or, The False Detective. Arizoan doe} or, The Boy Pard of Texas Jack. Nevada Ned, the Revolver Ranger Neptune Ned, the Boy Conster; or, Pirate In Spite. The Sailor Boy Wanderer? or, The Born Guide, Maphazard Marry or, The Sea Bonpograte, B98 The Red OClasped Hands; or, The Boy Lieutenant, BR? Warpath Will, the Traitor Guide. BRS The Indian Pilots or, The Search for Pirate Island. B77 Ronodel, the Buy Rover; or, The Flagless Schooner, 2S7 Billy Blue-Eyes, of the Rio Grande. 2&7 Lone Star, the Cowboy Captain. 229 Crimson Kate, the Girl Trailer; or, The Cowboy’s Triumph. 116 The Huasar Captain: or, The Hermit of Hell Gute. 111 The Sea-Devil; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy. 102 Dick Dead-Eye, the Smuggier ; or, The Cruise of the Vixen, 7b The Boy Dnellat; or, The Cruise of the Sea-Woll, 62 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants. 24 Plamond Dirk; or, The Mystery of the Yellowstone, 1? Ralph Roy; the Boy Buccanser; or, The Fugitive Yachit. % The Flying Yankee}; or, The Ocean Outcast. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 841 Prince Charlie, the Cat’s-Paw Sport. By Marma- ADS 487 468 duke Dey, 842 The Actor Detective in Chicago; or, Dick Doom’s Flush Hand, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 848 Dan, the River Sport; or, Foiling the Frisco Sharp. By Harold Payne, 844 Broadway ss Big Bulge. By J. C. Cowdrick. 845 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, High Horse. By Edward L. Wheeler; “ Ruck, the New Vork Sharper, By Jo Pierce. Dick Doow's Ten Strike. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, CHp, the Battery Ferret; or, Jack Jeffers’ Foul Piay. By T. C. Harbaugh, Brondway_ RBilly’s 8100,000 Snap. The Grund Strect Arab, By Jo Merce. The Tle-To Sport; or, High Hustling at Sinners’ Fint. By Wm. R. Eyster. Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Devil’s Gulch, By Fdward L. Wheeler. Dick Doon’s Kidnapper Knock-Out, Prentiss Ingraham. Unele Sam’s Detective in Chicngot or, The Country Poatmaster Among Bunco-Men. By George C. Jenks. The West Broadway Gamin; or, Toddles, the Tramp, in Clover, By Jo Plerce. The Bootblack Stewaway} or, Broadway Billy’s Blind. By J. C. Cowdrick. Spotter Bob in New York; or, The Man from ’Way- Back. By Wm. G. Patten. A Now Issue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library 1s for sale by sll newsdealers, five conta por sopy, or sent b7 mail on receipt ot six cents each, BEADLE ANP ADAMB, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York By Cowdrics. By Colonel Jea: