Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 915) (1895 02 05)
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Tee. |! Gar = b . OQBBR=o VOY i ik es 5! oy tT (Wal ta { wt A corre (i! es : rrr ri | -- a! | vered as Second Class Matter at the New tie: N. v4 Post Office. Copyrighted 1895, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, 915, $2.50 PUBLISHED “WEEKL Y BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, a Year. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 cents. Aay'd | Kt ih \ li ih ‘tlk { t | a wal aii UP FLASHE FERRET, EAST BROADWAY; OR, THE FIRE-BUG’S BOOTY. BY JO PIERCE, OF “REDDY RUSHER,” ‘ACE HIGH,” ETO, ITN 7°77, NW } 1 U f, , \ | mM iH CHAPTER T. THE THUGS OF THE NIGHT. & , AWLESS deed was at hand. Was it rob- “7 aR eBE rom (ey bety, or something worse? The man who SAY, MISTER!” CRIED FLIP, ‘YOU ADVERTISED FER A LIVE BOY. WAL, Nkec through the alley and then approached HERE HE IS; I’M YOUR PEACH!”
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Flip Flasher Ferret. the rear of the house with such secretive- ness surely had no good intention, and in the city of New York there were men who would hesitate at nothing He scemed satisfied when he saw that the house was dark and silent, and then he turn- ed and motioned to the point whence he had come. Another man emerged from the alley and joined him. ‘* All quiet!” whispered the first prowler, I see nothin’ ter prevent our goin’ right in as we have planned.” ; * Then do it without delay. on!” They went still closer to the house with its sleeping inmates. Why? What evil act was intended? At about the same moment two boys met al the corner of East Broadway and Canal street. “‘ Hello,Shoestrings!” exclaimed one, ‘‘ how goes it? Biz rushin’ an’ ev’rybody civil, or has somebody trod on yer uppers so you want me ter go an’ lick them dizzy?” ‘* Nothin’ wrong, Flip,” was the answer. ‘* No scraps?” ** Not one.” **Urickey!” was the wondering reply; ‘‘how do you manage to exist? Why, sence I seen you I hev licked a grocer’s boy an’ an Eyetalian decayed banana-vender, 3ut, you don’t git no fun out o’ life, Shoe- etrings—not an artom!” ‘*T git some money,” was the answer, ** Peddlin’ shoestrings! Hum’!” He who had been called Flip looked with some disdain at the big bunch of shoe-laces which hung from his companion’sarm, The explanation of this was simple. The second boy was a worker in life, while Flip was a drone. More than that, he rather liked to bea drone, though the fling at his friend was humorous, not really ill-natured or scornful. There were times when his er- ratic fancy prompted him to boast a good deal of ‘‘ Shoestrings's” industry. The two were nearing the point when they were to be of the size of men, but this point was yet some years away, and they were considerably short of their majority in years. Shoestrings was the smaller of the pair— a slender, sharp-faced youth, while his friend was stouter built, ; The real names of the pair were William Flash and Edward Green, but, somebody’s fancy had caused these baptismal appella- tions to be, hidden under the nicknames of Flip Flasher and Shoestrings. As such nearly every body knew them, and they did not object in the least. In reply to Flip’s last fling Shoestrings jingled the coins in his pocket. ** Nickels count!” he tersely remarked. ‘So do school-boys,” ‘You an’ me ain't given that way.” ‘Right ye be, old man! Wal, w’ot is the word?—do we spin along the pave fer awhile, or go home?” ‘*T want ter go home.’ ** So you shall, old man; so you shall. I'll escort ye ter your palatial home an’ see you safe inside the door.” ° lip’s humorous fancy led him to try to wind his arm around his companion’s waist, but Shoestrings did not sce any joke in that; Zhe desired dignity, instead. He freed himself, and then the friends walked on in eer fashion, but talking freely as boys will. : At the entrance to an alley Shoestrings paused. . ‘*Go on!” directed Flip, match; | want ter light a cig.” ** Shoot yer cigs! snapped Shoestrings. **T shoot ty | every day—right inter m mouth,” grinned Flip, who, much to his companion’s disgust, persisted in smoking when he felt like it This had occhsioned many arguments between them. Shoestrings was not inclined toargue now, ee Get a. move , “T want a ‘*T reckon I'll go inter business life,” pur- sued Flip. at midnight an’ then go ter bed an’ dream o’ gettin’ rich s» fast. hand-organ an’ go out—’’ ** Guess I'll buy me a stick an’ lick youin- ter— Hello! what’s that?” Shoestrings’s gaze had soared upward and he stopped short. Flip looked the same way. ** Crickey!” he'cried,) ‘ it’s a fire!’ It was a fire! They had reached the rear yard, and a row of houses presented their grim backs tothem. Nothing bad been seen out of the way from the front, but the rear | rooms were lighted ina way which conveyed meaning to the street boys at once. ‘* Ts that your ranch?” demanded Flip. ‘* No, it’s Peter Mainford’s.” ‘* Wal, Peter’s house is on fire, an’ ef he don’t git a hustle on he will be burned up like a sick cat.” ** Wake them up!” Shoestrings rushed forward to the back door. There was very little prospect of its being unlocked, but he instinctively tried it. It yielded to his touch; it swung back. ‘** Ginger! that’s a queer way ter leave a door at this hour.” ** See the smoke!” It was not hard toseeit, The stuff rushed out to meet them ina blinding, irritating cloud. Beyond them wasastairway, and all along its course was the same cloud, red- dened in most places by the fire from above. ‘**Go fer the nearest fire-’larm box!” order- ed Flip. ‘«There ain’t a sound inside; they must be asleep. Ef we leavethem they may be burn- ed ter death. Rush inan’ wake them up. Jump to it—go right through the smoke!” They were about to dare the fire-fiend, when, suddenly a tall figure appeared on the stairs above. With long bounds a man came rushing down. He came out of the smoke like a stage-demon, looking uncanny enough, for he not only had the smoke to make, a mantle for him, but his hat was drawn down over his eyes as if to keep the smoke from those useful organs. ‘*Ts that you, Peter?” demanded Shoe-— strings, : He was almost in the man’s tracks, but he did not remain there long. Whether inten- tionally or not; the stranger leaped right at him, and the result was that the boy was knocked against the wall, from which. he tumbled over on the floor, All this smacked to Flip as very suspi- cious, and he grasped the unknowneman’s arm, “Say, hold up!” he directed. ‘‘ W’ot is ‘allthis racket about? Do you belong here, “Take that!” “ky With this exclamation the man gave Flip a poke in the stomach, and Flip fell over just in time to beat Shoestrings down again with his weight. For a moment the boys squirmed around on the floor, but they fin- ally bounced up. Flip had a pain in his stomach, and he was angry. | “Say, where is the atrocious pirate that jabbed my supper?” he demanded, hotly. **Let me at him!—let me wipe his nose off the face of the earth!—let me—” He was feeling around in the smoke and seeking to get his hands on his assailant, but an ~ finally dawned upon him that he was too ate. The darned old skeesicks is gone!” he lamented, , ‘‘ Flip, that man didn’t belong here!” cried Shoestrings, PAD, ‘‘He belonged in Sing Sing, by gum!” as- serted Flip. — ot ee ping , Did you see the other clearly ?” “* W’ot other?” ‘ There was two.” ‘‘ It must be nice ter git home | Guess I'll buy me a! a Then both swiped me in- ‘The second man carried a box—” | ‘* Say, old man, I'll bet a suspender they | was thieves!” The surmise shot out abruptly, and it was | followed by another: ** Yes, an’ the folks up above are burnin’ ter death. Ter the rescue, old man!” **The thieves will git clear.” ‘‘Shoot the thieves nowwe must save the sleepers!” The force of this reasoning was such that | no more was said, Side by side they dashed | up the stairs. On the next floor the situation | was pretty much the same as below, but | Flip’s quick eyes told him that all hope of saving the house was not gone. He had located the course of the fire, and saw that it was still confined to small space. ‘* Yell like a Bowery Injun an’ wake them up!” directed the older boy, ‘‘I’ll water the blaze.” He leaped forward, turned on the water in the sink and seized a convenient pail. Shoe strings obeyed ,orders to the letter, and his shrill voice sounded the alarm. ** Fire, fire! Where be you, Peter? move on! Fire, fire!” ‘*That’s it!’ encouraged Flip. yer lungs an’ fly! Rip the atmospear! some more!” It was doubtful if Shoestrings heard him, for the latter had not ceased to shout, and the result was soon seen. A man came rush- ing out of another room, his clothing none too abundant, It was an exciting advent for him, for Flip was beginning to pour water on the flames, and steam as well as smoke floated to the man of the house, fats He began to dance up and down, ‘*Thieves! Murder! Police!” he cried, wildly. ‘Shut yer throttle!” advised Flip, coolly. ‘Git yer engine outer the wet or yer cab will get flooded.” This free-and-easy advice was not clear enough to carry any information, but wben the manin white seized a chair and bade fair to make a‘hostile raid on his companions Shoestrings grasped, bis arm, ‘* Peter, don’t, ye know me?” he demanded. ‘* Why, it's Ned Green.” : ‘*That’s a bull’s-eye, Peter.” ‘* What’s all this row about?” ‘?- Yer house is on fire! Fall to an’ help us put the blaze out.” yee ‘Yes, gn’ gita hump on like a camel!” added Flip, flinging another pail of water. Shoestrings joined in the work, and Peter Mainford was practical i to give his help without undue delay. The three pro- ceeded to work so lively that the fire was goon subdued. When it was sure that it was past the dan- ger period Flip stopped short and fixed his gaze upon a point at one side of the room. ‘That settles one thing,” he declared. Git a *« Spread Yell thought. | ‘ ae. “Do ye see the pile Oo’ stuff against the wall?” 3 t | “ What, what? Why, how comé that rub- bish piled up there?’ ; “Did you do it? ) “No. Why, it must have been done to set. the house on fire—” Bs : “Correct you be, Peter! This here is an incendiary SP8P, n° you are lucky ter be a citizen of New York instead of an angel.” “Incendiary? But, what could anybody find here: to’ work such ® Plot for?” and Mainford glanced ground bis by no means palatial quarters, ” aS We see them carryin’ off a box— Mr. Mainford fairly leaped into the air, «« What?” he shouted. They had a box—” t . Peter began to run around wildly. “Where is it now?” es ee “What?” inquired Peter, coming out of | et ree * - } § an x { + ae ‘Si ee se: ] & ERS E < ia ae ~_ —— «
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“Out where?” “Out o’ the house.” “‘Oh. oh! Have they— Did they carry it off? Dcn’t tell me they did! Don’t tell me that! Where is it?—where is the box?” The boys looked hard at the white-clad man as he rushed frantically about the room. poor, like the rest of those who lived adja- cent to the alley, but if the wealth of a mil- lionaire had been at stake Peter could not have been more disturbed. * “Wish I could comfort ye,’’ answered Shoestrings, ‘‘ but I guess it’s no use, They carried a box off, fer we see them,”’ “ Why didn’t you stop them?” cried Peter. ‘“We did, an’ they stopped us,” coolly re turned Flip. ‘‘Oh! we was ready enough : ter hold ’em up, but they, played Sweet be Marie on my supper, an’ knocked me an’ Shoetrings silly, by gum! Then they got off!” Peter wrumg his hands. ‘*? am ruined, ruined!’ he asserted, al- most weeping. “Was there money in that box, boss?” fe ‘* Millions, millions!” groaned Peter. ‘‘I am ruined; I will kill myself!” aud he caught ? up a knife. d A: CHAPTER II. b ‘ WORK TO BE DONE, PETER seemed to mean all he threatened, and the sharp knife was so fully capable of ‘ doing the rest that Shoestrings was fright. | ened. He stood mute and still while the knife was swung up, but Flip was made of pe different stuff, f ' . He sprung forward, seized Peter’s hand, it and checked the fall of the weapon, Another movement and he had pinioned the man’s "? arm, claimed. ‘Want ter go an’ make a mess on the floor that we shall have ter clear up? Folks never hev no consideration fer nobody ¥ else when they kill theirselves, an’ I say it’s i mean, by gum! Ef you are bound ter sui- oe cide, go out in the yard an’ do it.” Me This practical speech appeared to take away all desire on Peter's part. 4 ‘Oh, [did not mean to do it!” he de- R clared. e «You acted like et!” 42 *«] was crazy.” «©You acted like that, too,” ‘‘T am ruined, ruined!” ‘Say, boss. did you really hey so much money in the box?” go «Tt wasn’t money—” . “Then wot in thunder was et?’ bluntly asked the boy. ‘It was— But maybe my fears are groundless; maybe it was something else they had, I will see.” \ He ran into the next room, while Flip shook his head. Lo aey _ ‘ His trolley is twisted.” *“Yes, he’s lost his grip on the cable,” agreed Shoestrings. eter came running out, tears, running down his cheeks. “It’s gone?” he announced. “Tam a lost man; I am undone; all my hopes are dashed to ruin. Iam lost!” “Never mind; we will get a lantern an’ ee you,” replied the irrepressible elder boy. : oe strings, serious): _ beginning, to walk the smoke-laden room wildly. feos __ “The sumand substance of it all seems.ter be there has. been a burglary here,” added “Somebody stole somethin’ an then Pes job, an’ it means somethin’ like twenty ; i had it when they went out.” Shoestrings had always supposed he was | ‘‘Now, you hold hard!” he lightly ex-. W’ot was in ‘the box?” inquired Shoe-, ‘ Lcan’t tell; can’t tell!” answered Peter, — Flip. } se Be the house on, fire... That’s a.mighty seri: Flip Flasher, Ferret. 3 years, I believe, when sleepin’ folks are inter the house. We hey got inter a stew, an‘ the oysters hev skipped the tra-la-la. Now, w'ot shall we do about et?” ‘‘Go ter the perleece,” suggested Shoe- strings. “Yes, yes; we must do that,” agreed Peter, ‘‘Oh! my box;.my box! This will kill me.” ‘* Never mind; et ain’t so quick as elec- tricity.” ‘* Electricity!” cried Peter, clasping, his hands, ‘‘ That is just it.” ** W’'ot is jest it?” ‘* Blectricity !” ‘* Mister, I ain't onter yer curves fer a red cent,” ‘‘Go for the police; go forthem! No;I will go myself. Ned Green, you are an hon- est boy—stay here until my return,” He started toward the door. ‘** Hold up!” called Flip. ‘What now?” ** You ain’t dressed accordin’ ter proper New York style, boss, Nobody on Fifth avenoo would call that orthodox evenin' dress,”’ Peter, recalled to his senses in a measure, hurried into his,room and came out properly clad. He then proceeded to put his plan in- to effect, and hastened from the house, leav- | the boys in charge. | ‘*Say, his nibs is all broke up,” remarked Flip. ‘* So he is.” ‘* Wot is all this talk about his havin’ treasure? He don’t look like a bondholder, by ginger!” ‘*T’ve heerd he was an inventor,” “ Of what—sassage meat?” ‘‘T don’t know what. He lives here all alone with his daughter Bess, an’ folks say he’s all the time porin’ over queer diagrams and other jiggers.” ‘“‘Shoestrings, jest you take warnin’ from this. Don’t you never let jiggers git inter your think- machine.” ‘*Can’t we hev a light here, Flip?” “Dunno, There’s the gas-fixture.” ** Yes, but,” added Shoestrings, as he tried a match, ‘“‘the gas ain’t,on. Guess Peter don’t burn the stuff. There should be a lamp— Hi! here’s the pieces of it on the floor—it has been broke.” ‘Never mind; here\comes Peter, I guess. Yes, it’s him.” . A buman figure appeared in the gloom. ‘* Hey, Petesey!” cried the headlong Flip, “‘hev you raised the cop?” | The man stopped short. He had come from the outer air, and ought to have been Peter, it seemed, but both boys were of the opinion that he did not act as Peter would, They tried their best to penetrate the darkness and smoke with their gazes, but failed. | . Flip started forward. “Say, Captain Mum, who in blazes be you, anyhow?” he demanded. The man remained silent, but, suddenly, he wheeled and began moving off in the direction he had come. Now, Flip was not the boy to let a chance pass by, and he sprung forward and caught at.the tail of the stranger’s coat, ‘Hold hard, old chap!” was his order, The stranger wheeled again and Flip found himself looking into the muzzle of a revolver, / ** Die!” growled the unknown. “* Bluff!” retorted the impetuous boy, not in the least bit alarmed, and with this he leaped upon the intruder’s:neck. “Dump _ him, Shoestrings!” he shouted. “* He’s our meat!” , ; If Shoestrings was less headlong he was not by any means slow, and he sprung to the aid of his friend. Both twined their arms around, the stranger and held fast, _ ‘* We've go! | -Possibly, they ; had. At any. rate, they ™ t the.fire-bug!” yelled Flip. “ seemed to have caught a’ man unwilling to face them further. ‘' Let me go!” he cried, fiercely. go or it will be the death o’ you!” It was an Ominous warning, but it did not work. ‘Police! Firemen! Peddlers!’ shouted the rattle-pated Flip, and he held all the tighter for the threat. hen the man began to struggle in earn- est. He was a powerful fellow, and when he got in motion he went fast. The boys held on, but they were whirled around like tops, and their limbs knocked together as they made wild evolutions in mid-air. ‘‘ Keep yer grip, Shoestrings!” yelled Flip. “This ain’t so bad as a windy day in City Hall Park!”, ° Just then Shoestrings’s hold was broken, and he went banging heavily against the wall, One-half of the burden was off of the man, and he gave Flip a swing which dashed him to the floor. " *« Let me ‘“My .leg!’ screamed the boy. ‘‘It’s broke!” The man stood in irresolution. Shoe- strings lay perfectly still, while Flip writhed and groaned ina most dismal fashion, He appeared to be in the direst agony. *Good!’’ muttered the man. He turned and hurried off, but his steps still sounded on the stairs when Flip leaped up lightly. “Ha, ha!” he laughed. ‘‘ Fooled ye that time, Old Tough! Say, Shoestrings, be you awake? That gent is one o’ the gang, sure as pancakes, an’ I am goin’ ter foller him ter his lair. Ketch on?” Shoestrings lay motionless. : ‘*Knocked insensible,” added Flip, more seriously. ‘* Hope he ain’t got no concus- sion 0’ the think-tank. Say, Ned, old man, I'm off!” ) Still Shoestrings did not move. ‘‘You’d better git up an’ bathe yer head, Shoestrings; that will resuscitate yer., I can’t stop ter do it; ’'moff! So-long!” With this Flip hurried out of the room and the house. He was firm in the opinion that the man last seen had been a part of the fire-bug gang, and he intended to prove it. He meant to follow him to his headquarters. First of all, he made a wild bolt out of the rear yard, and this succeeded so well that he caught sight of his mau. When this was accomplished Flip’s man- ner underwent a sudden change. With all of his impetuousness, he had plenty of cau- tion and shrewdness when he saw fit to exercise it, and he proved it now. His game was rapid in his movements un- til he was well beyond the alley and the danger of being seen appeared to die away; then he manifested sudden caution, himself. He looked around him, and began a tortu- ous and stealthy retreat. It was greatly to Flip’s credit that he was not detected in his pursuit when such care was exhibited, but the boy seemed fiterally to be gifted with abnormal powers of pro- tection, The instant the man made a motion to look around Flip dodged like a shot int» a” doorway, and always with such success that all efforts to detect possible pursuit were rendered useless. f Thus, the chase went on for a long time; but the stranger, after heroic attempts to make himself safe by turning many corners, finally entered a building and it was over. Flip chuckled merrily, ‘“‘Old man, I’ve got ye hived!” was his exultant comment, : CHAPTER II. A VOLUNTEER DETECTIVE. — Fire FuasHer stopped and surveyed the scene before him. He had it all to himself. The man whom he had followed was invisi-~ ble, and nobody else was on the block so far as he could see.
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J eaves of every house, an’ there won't be a i ft _ dark spot in no street whatever, it will light } © streets so night will be jest like day. Flip Flasher, Ferret. \ } “ eh a | “ Accordin’ ter Peter’s notion.” “Oh! but this is nota fake, Peter had showed the invention ter two _ business houses. One of them offered him fifty thou- sand dollars fer it, but he wanted more. Anyhow, it means a loss o’ fifty thousand, an’ Peter is desperate.” Flip thrust his hands into his pocket deeply. ; ‘‘ Fifty thousand!” he murmured, slowly. ‘‘Peter hadn’t got et patented, but the model was in that box. He says he can’t make another one like it in less than five years, an’ w’ot he is most afraid of is that the thieves will go an’ get it patented ahead o’ him. He's jest crazy over it.” ‘* Fifty thousand!” again muttered Flip, ‘* Yea.” ‘“‘Say, w’ot will Petey give fer it back?” “He said he would give five thousand dollars.” ‘** Hi! did he? oe Yes.” ** Did they say they knew jest where ter look fer the crooks?” PINOU Flip took his friend by the most conveni- ent button and led him to one side. Then, looking around with the greatest caution, he added a husky whisper: ‘*Shoestrings, you an’ me will nail that boodle?” ‘* Hey! what’s that?” ‘* No jokin’, my boy. I ain’t a man ter joke!” added Flip, with great dignity. ** Now, the long an’ short of it is, we must turn electric detectives an’ win that five thousand.” ‘How can we?” ‘** Find the box an’ tke stealers, Work! Hunt! Hustle! Gita canter on an’ fairly make New York shake.” Shoestrings shook his head. ‘*T kin sell shoe-laces,” he answered, “ but this ain’t in my line.” ‘Wal, by ginger! it’s in mine, an’ I am goin’ ter prove it, Out I go, ter-morrer, an’ ou will see my hair wavin’ like banners ll go so fast. Lam going ter blossom out in a way that will astonish East Broadway. What’s more, you are goin’ ter help me!” caer younger boy brightened up percep- tibly. ‘Tl do et allthe time I get away from peddlin’ shoe-laces,”’ **Shoot yer shoe-strings! W’ot do they count against glory? But then, old man, I know you will fall inter line when the band begins ter play, for you are a reg’lar peach. lll let ye know the ways an’ means later on.” The boys conversed for a considerable time, and Flip learned all he could about§the case, Then they separated for the night. Both went home, but it was with the under- standing that they should meet at Pete’s the next morning, and they kept their prom- ise. When they arrived two police officers were on the scene, and they were questioned a good deal. They told: all they knew con- jointly, but Flip kept back the fact that he ad followed one of the supposed fire-bugs to his lair. He was human enough to wish to work that lead all by himself. aa ae explained his situation more fully. My invention was a plan to light the city by electricity in a way very different from that now in use,” he remarked. ‘* At pres- ent some sections have no electric-lights, and where such light is used there are alternate patches of bright light and semi-darkness, “Now, by my plan the electric-works would run along the eaves of every building in the city, and ii ht-jets would not be over five fect apart. ing so close together they would not need to be so big, glaring and dazzling as they now are, **By my plan, too, every nook and corner would be lighted well and alike, but 1 have All of his attention was fixed on the build | ing where his quarry had been hived. It was a structure five stories higb. The ground floor was used for offices, and the upper part seemed to be dwelling quarters, though he was impressed with the belief that it was not devoted to ‘‘flats.’’ The unknown man had dodged into one of the main doors, but the fact that a light im- mediately after appeared in an office next to it impressed Flip strongly. He read the sign over the door. ‘‘Humph!” he muttered, ‘‘ w’ot does that mean? ‘Arizona Land Investment and | Colonization Company.’ Strikes me et ought | ter be the New York Steal an’ Burn Com. pany: but mebbe all welds in tergether. So my duck is in there? This is interestin’!” t was not certain that his late quarry was concerned with the light in the office, but the fact that they had come so near together gave excuse for the suspicion, and Flip was not one’to neglect any chance to build theories. For a long time he stood idle, watching to see if there would be further developments, but, though the light burned on in the office, he saw no human being astir. Finally he moved closer, and, besides the sign over the door, he saw certain lettering on the window. ** Wonder ef that’s the business card o’ the Was the cops around?” fire bug? It reads: ‘Addison Oates, Agent forthe A. L. I. & C. ©,’ Et don’t say who is agent fer the A. B. C., an’ the rest o’ the alphabet. The light still glimmers, an’ it’s dollars ter pancakes that the fire-bug is in | there. Wonder if he has Peter’s gold an’ silver under his beamin’ eyes?” Flip moved close to the window, but he found no opening where he could gain view of the interior, The chances of fresh dis- coveries were so few that he decided to has- ten back to the alley and sce if things were not more lively there. He went. On arriving at the entrance to 8 alley, he found Shoestrings waiting for him. ‘* Hi, there, you don’t say!” cried Flip. “Don’t say w’ot?” asked the younger boy. “That you are alive,” ** Of course I be.” ** But you was dead when [ left ye.” *“‘Ef you think I be now, jest you put up your hands!” retorted Shoestrings, warmly. “* Great lad, you be, ter run off an’ shake a feller as you did.” “Duty, my friend; duty!” ** Clear case o’ flunk.” ‘‘ Wal, never mind; we kin fight it out some time,” good-humoredly answered Flip. ** How’s things?” “The police has been inter Peter’s,” ** Course they hey.” ' ‘“‘They didn’t ketch nobody.” | “Course they didn’t. Didn’t expect they would, did ye? Why, you an’ me scared them sg they are aclear hundred miles off now. The last I seen o’ them they was in Jersey, and going over the Hackensack meadows s0 fast that electric lights flamed out all around their coat-tails,” “Say,” cried Shoestrings, ‘‘ that reminds me. Kt was that which Peter had stole.” ‘*W’ot? His coat-tails?” ‘‘No: somethin’ about electricity. You know I told you he was an inventor. Wal, that box we seen had in it the model fer the. biz—a new apparatus fer lightin’ streets.” ** 1 don’t fully grasp it. Let me irrigate my think-factory.” Flip pulled one of his ears three times viciously, and then added: _ ‘Proceed! My trolley will ketch et, | now.” “ Peter’s new invention will ligkt up the wire with electric jets will run along the ~ Bhings'so fine.” ‘ | a secret by which the light can be made mellow and pleasant to all who see it. ‘‘T have been in consultation with severa? companies, and all have offered’ me big money for the rights. Oh! that I had got it patented at the start—but I couldn't, because I was so poor. Now, the model is stolen, and if the thief gets it patented ahead of m - I am ruined. Oh! dear, oh! dear, what aw awful misfortune!’ The police encouraged him all they could. Flip said nothing, but he continued to think: When he was dismissed he and Shoestrings i went out. The latter had his laces over his “ arm, and was more anxious to go about his . business than to engage in idle wandering. Pi His friend advised him to go, and thep Flip walked over to the office of the Arizona. . Land Company. Henoticed a piece of paper pasted on the window which had not been there before, and he went close and read it: ‘*A Live Boy Wanrep!” * ba Flip chuckled. ‘“That’s jest my weight. Ill goin, IJ" see w’ot is wanted, an’ then I’ll see w'ot else / is ter be seen. Old man, you are jest about. } oe, Just then a newsboy approached. Flip d had a sudden.idea, and as: he. had a little money in his per he proceeded to buy the entire stock of his companion. This } done he sent the latter about his business. and then turned his face toward the office again. : ‘* Now ter beard the fire-bug in his den!’” ag he muttered. — 44 CHAPTER IV. FLIP GOES INTO BUSINESS. Most persons would have been sobered by j the crisis so near at hand, but this was not. the case with Flip Flasher. There was no | such thing as subduing him, and he clasped the package of papers under his arm and } went ahead witb all of the confidence and good humor imaginable. _ Opening the office door he walked serencly in. The Arizona Land Company evidently did not believe in wasting money in idle dis- % play, and the office was not over-furnished, it but it was all well enough and comfortable. The main thing was a table, and at this a man was seated, engaged in writing, his hat. resting on the table near him. He turned as: the door creaked, and Flip caught sight of a face the most distinctive feature of which was a big black beard, It,. owner looked at. Flin, and the latter threw himself into an attitude, and allowed the old i good-bumore ie to appear on his face. Or: He was a striking figure in his way, and a Bis half-smile came to the man’s face, though ( Flip’s papers must have deceived him as - ~ tothe object of lhe call. ? ig “Say, mister!” cried Flip, ‘“‘you adver. tised fer a live boy. Wal, here he is! I’m M4 your peach!” ; * “You!” returned the man, doubtfully, ak eying him sharply. La ** Nobody else.” ‘You are anewsboy—-a street Arab!” ‘Bet yer life! There ain't nobody on East Broadway who kin give me p’inters. Here’s the papes—ef you want ter buy we will work the news-agency first, but don't you | forgit that I am the live boy you want. That’s the main biz o’ the hour.” — 1) i Now, if Flip had but known it, he was: + about as far from being the ideal of a boy | who would fill an office position as any body f could be. He wore ill-fitting clothes; he was. not so clean of person as he might have been, =. and his language was not in the least ele- shite nt. : i Happily unconscious of these defects, he 9% awaited the answer with confidence, and it | was surprising that the man did not shov R signs of tybulting Bim. , “*
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Se he Sy = ep SS ep ee 6 eee a — ee ae *" = _ = = AS “ ie s MRR “i a? ‘* - ; oe ceeded to explain that his business differed ' greatly from that of a theater, awd that the *¢ Sit “T will talk with you,” he replied. down!” «Hadn't. I better lock the door?” “Why?” “« How long has that sign, ‘ Boy wanted,’ been up?” _‘* Possibly fifteen minutes.” ‘Inside an hour we shall all of East Sroadway and most o’ the side-streets here fer the posish, We shall hev ter lock them out or we shall not hev any peace.’ ‘*T think we are safe,” replied the man, smiling. ‘‘ Sit down,” F lip. obeyed, but he did not allow modesty to keep him silent. ‘‘Be you Addison Oates?” he bluntly asked, “ec Y 3 ** Doin’ a land biz, be you?” **Yes.” * Does it pay?” **T can’t complain,” “Need a boy, do ye?’ ae): at ag Wal, then fire away. Moy: an’ that’s the sort of a chicken I be. I’m dead I don’t know it. See?” Flip was as free-and-easy and confident as ever. He had sat down, elevated his feet, aud was taking life easy with a vengeance, It did not occur to him that he might be ruining. his chances for a position, but, singularly enough, Mr. Addison Oates did not resent the forward manner of his visitor, There was something almost like approval ‘in his own aspect, * What is your name?” he inquired. ** Flip Flasher.” ‘That's an odd name.’ ‘ It’ s Russian. I’m a subjict of the czar.’ ‘ Do you live near here?” “Yes, ef I find a box that nobody else ain't: got inter ahead of me.’ ** Luck goes hard with you, does it?” ** Not at all. Sometimes I don’ t get enough ter éat, but that’s all. They won’t let me inter the Newsboy’s Home because my feet are too big.” “Well, can you be honest, industrious and faithful?” ‘‘T kin, fer cash.” Mr. Oates leaned back in his chair with a business air. “Trun a Laud Investment and Coloniza- tion Company,” he explained, ‘‘ and I get ‘settlers and speculators here in New York. Sometimes I start a hundred of them off ina day to settle on the boundless plains and in fae rich valleys of Arizona.” _ Flip was not well informed on the Western Territories, but what he had heard of Arizo- na had led him to look upon that place as a medley of barren mountains and- sandy deserts. He did not care for that now, and | he cheerfully interjected: ** Good fer you, boss!” - * Back of me are a full dozen of wavy - philanthropists who seek to do good to the | poor and worthy, but in my office I have es You want a live Ef eae one associate,a Mr. Charles Martin, He ismy collector. Now, I need a boy to run eTrands, too,” att live boy?” res,” ~ T am the cadaverous fat man you need. iy ts never did take ter sellin’ papes, though I _hev been in the bez ever sence I was six months old, Now, 1 would like ter retire, We 108 is the cash inter this, boss?” ‘* How about ten dollars a week?” Flip studied the matter for some time, and then eee replied: . ‘* I'll do et ef you'll give me five per cent. peste, Peeksy Neal has got a brother who wrote ath ater-play an’ he gets that.” Amiable Mr. Oates smiled again and pro- _ per cent. would have to be barred, but the gore iend cela a Sees was. on ap LO Flip. jones | Up Flasher, Ferret. to ee Flip acdcad it. He was wily, and did not show undue zeal, but when he had asked good many more questions he accepted with grave decision. ‘““You will begin at once,” then added Oates. ‘‘ Here is something to do as a starter. Carry this letter to its destination when I have finished it. Take this half-dol- lar as pay for your papers ‘and pitch them in- to the waste-basket. Oates turned to his writing and moved his pen rapidly for a few minutes. The letter completed, he sealed it in an env elope and gave it to his new employee ‘Carry it at once, and then return to me. I may not have many errands, to-day, but I want vou on the premises.” Flip did the errand, w hich was to deliver the note to a store, and then returned. He found two foreigners in the office—Bohe.- mians, he thought-—-and \Oates, who soon proved to have command of various lan. guages, was telling them of the fine homes to be had in V alley Rest, Arizona. Flip had not come there impressed in favor of Mr. Oates, and being anxious to find flaws in him, he soon arrived at a decision as to the Land Company. ‘*Black Beard is tryin’ ter skin them,” was his unspoken verdict. “Wants them ter put up a little cash an’ go inter the scheme, does he? Wal, so do all crooks want that same. That's w’ot the Land Co. is. ” Several times during this conversation Oates had glanced at Flip as if not wholly satisfied to have him present, and he had no sooner disposed of his would-be colonists than he touched a bell, A colored man came from a door at the rear of the officer. ‘* Boy,” spoke Oates, ‘‘you will go with this man and see your new quarters. Remain with him after that—when I want you I will ring for you, Understand?” a Sure,” Flip answered. He was somewhat surprised that an office boy should be sent up-stairs, but he was not disposed to remonstrate. He followed the colored man and tried to draw him into con- versation as they went, but the man was not talkative, and confined his replies to monosyllables, The new office-boy was conducted to a room where two women sat sewing. They were dressed neatly but plainly, and hada wholesome look, on the whole, but Flip was not sure he was going to like them. One was gray-haired, while the other could not have been over twenty-five years of age. The colored man nodded brusquely. “This is the boy,” he announced, ‘* Yes, ladies,” agreed Flip, ‘I am the boy. Inever should pass fer a centenarian.” He smiled as he said it, but his good hu- mor did not seem catching. The older wo- man told him to sit down, and he did so. Then there was a pause which was not pleas- ant tohim, He wanted life and excitement, not to sit in idleness with two women. He meditated, and then put on his broadest smile, ‘* Be you colonizers, too?” he inquired. “Whom do you address?” stiffly asked | the elder woman, | ‘IT dunno. W’ot is yer name?” ‘* What is that to you?” ‘** Nothin’; only I want ter be chummy. Dve been legal! y adopted by Brother Oates, an’ I want ter do my part with the happy family, Let’s be sociable. Do weshake an’ nari up?” abe ice CHAPTER VY. THE RANCHMAN, Furr felt that his urhanity ought to be met with warmth, but it was not. ~ Friendly as he was, his companions did not rush to wel- come him, | On the contrary, he hardly re- ceived any reply, and, when further efforts met with the same sas luck, he relapsed in- Es SE noe 375 SR STORE PE ESSN MSs ANAL ah ae RST Sal ES a a ra aa ; SUTURE The few remarks made by his new asso- ciates in the next few minutes gave him their names, however. The old woman was Susan, the younger one was Violet, and the negro rejoiced in the handle of Tim Flynn—a name very unusual for a colored man Perhaps half an hour had passed when there was a knock at the door. This did not seem to be a singular matter, but Flip was at once impressed with the manner of his companions. Everything was suspended,and they looked at each other’ in a queer way. “Scared!” thought the quick-witted Flip. Susan turned her gaze suddenly upon Flip. ‘It's our minister,” she announced, rapid- ly. ‘*Boy, go inter ‘the next room yonder. ‘*T'd kinder like ter meet the minister—” ‘* Go!” * Yes’m.’ Flip reat but he was not soon enough. They had delayed about opening the door, and the man who was there evidently had become impatient. The door opened with- out more ceremony, and somebody walked in The street-bo , keen of observation, quick- ly arrived at a decision. ‘* He ain't no New Yorker!” It was plain in the dress and the sun- burn seen on the stranger, but the latter al- lowed but little time for idle survey. He moved quiekly to the middle of the room and there came to a halt. He seemed to look for something not visible—then he demanded quickly; ‘* What have you done with her?” Violet was not confused by the abrupt question, for she coolly but sharply re- torted: ‘* What have you lost—a growler?” The intruder appeared mystified. “A growler—what is that? But it don’t matter. Where is my girl?” ** On the Island, Ireckon!” returned Violet, | with easy assurance, ‘* What island?” ‘Oh! say, come out of the backwoods and get a move on you! If you are as green as you claim, do go and eat hay for awhile.” ‘* Abuse will not turn me away!” an- red declared the man. ‘‘ You know me; Aer Dave Starling. I am lookin’ fer my ell.” ‘We don’t care a rap what you ‘re look- ing for. You can’t come around here with any more of your guff. We've seen you once before, and we know your way. Now, you get—” Susan had been looking uneasily at Flip, and she now went close to Violet’s side and whispered to her. Violet turned angrily upon Flip. ‘Say, didn’t you get your orders?” she cried. ‘** Not fyet, mum,” serenely replied the boy. ‘‘] am on the anxious seat fer or- ders.” ‘* Don’t you worry about that. that room, and go quick, af * Alb right, mum. ’ Flip had never been meeker, and he turn- e to obey without delay. He passed into the room directed, and, at a motion from Violet, the negro closed the door, ‘‘Sorter got the bunco!” murmured the boy. ‘‘ W’ot dol care? I brought my ears along with me, an’ by gum! 1 kin use them. Get inte T sorter want ter git onter their curves. W’ot is eatin’ that sole-leather skin gent, any- how?” Anxious to learn something on this point the boy applied his ear to the keyhole, and — found he could. still hear without trouble, Dave Starling was doing the talking. “There is nothing to rein mf Violet. ; want you to explain this,” he asserted, ie
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aes will be a snag fer you.” | Flip Flasher, Ferret. ** Where is Nell?” “‘ We don’t know.” ‘*-You told me she was up at Tarrytown.” “Then why don’t you go there?” ‘*T have, but J cannot find her.” « That does not concern us. her keepers. If she has flown the coop it isn’t our funeral.” ‘“Durn et all!” cried Starling, with sud- den change of manner,*‘‘I don’t trust you folks any too much. I believe you are play- in’ me false. bogus job, I reckon, an’ I’m nore the wiser. I want ter find my gal.” ‘*Go and do it, then!” “Now, you see here!” cried tne visitor, almost shouting. ‘‘I don’t want no more impudence out o’ you. No, an’ I won't hev it! You lured my gal away from the ranch in Nebraska, an’ now you hide her when I come, so.that I—” “Steady! Prove that we have hidden ” ‘* Wal, as ter that, I dunno as I kin prove 6t——! “Then pull in your tongue!” snapped Violet, with true East Side flippancy. There was a lul}!, but it seemed that the tempest was only gathering afresh. When Starling next spoke his manner was much quieter, but it was full of subdued in- tensity. ‘‘T’ve heerd a good deal about the thugs 0’ New York, an’ it seems l’ve run up aginst a gang o’ them. Don’t you get away with the notion that I’m ter be led around by the nose jest because my experience has been on a western ranch—not by a durned sight! I may not be a city sharp, but I am aman, an’ capable of fightin’ any two-legged critter in your outfit. ye see?” Flip chuckled. ‘* Mister,” he muttered, under his breath, *‘T don’t know who you be, but you sorter fill my notion of a man. I wish I could sing out an’ make ye hold ter yer cable.” The resolute stand of the ranchman led Violet to adopta less aggressive mannet, and as they lowered their voices enough to make it hard for Flip to overhear what they were saying, he bethought himself of his own errand, ; *“ Wonder where that box is?” Flip had no proof that any box had come into the building, but he was tenacious of his opinions, and one of them was that Ad- dison Gates had the box stolen from Main- ford. If it was not not in the building it was elsewhere, but he inclined to the belief that it was right there. We are not | best to help Tim. The trip to Tarrytown was a | kind. Running tothe door next to the room where he had left his companions he opened it a little and saw a lively struggle going on. The colored man and Dave Starling bad grap- pled, and Violet and Susan were doing their All, in fact, were strik- ing Dave, and pulling and hauling at him in a way which bade fair soon to rend his clothes to pieces, if he escaped a like fate. There was no joke about this, and no | finish tke job. rough-and-tumble quarrel of the ordinary Flip read his associates well, and he knew Starling really was in danger. ‘*Crickey! I kin jest about fit in there!” muttered the boy. ‘'Here goes. Let the back streets be heard from!” A few light leaps took him to the vicinity of the struggling mass; then his hands were added to the bunch that pulled and clawed so venomously. He was not at first noticed. “Kill him!” panted Violet, whose breata seemed to grow short. “That's. the figger!” “‘Bu’st his snoot! Hammer Brooze his eyebrows!” There was a twinkle in the speaker's eyes as he spoke these sanguinary words, He had decided on his own plan of action, and it was to pretend to be in full sympathy with the gang, even while helping Dave all he could, Elaborate as the scheme was it lacked a good deal of being simple, for the rapid movements of the party baffled clear action, and about all Flip was sure of was that he was getting a share of the blows, Thump, thump, thump, thump! fell fists on his head and body. ‘‘Tt’s the prettiest scrap out!” cried Flip, gayly. exclaimed Flip. Kim silly! CHAPTER VI. FLIP KEEPS ON TOP. Ir the East Broadway boy had been a tender plant he would soon have tired of the role he had assumed, for he was getting hit by all parties by accident; but he did not care for this—street life had toughened him until he cared little for blows. Ignoring his own hurts, he persisted in seeking to ward off the blows aimed at Star- ling, but doing it with great cunning. Starling was not making the fight to be expected of one of his athletic build, and Flip suspected that he had been injured by a well-directed blow. He was resisting feebly, and his aid began to be worried about him. Even if he had been able to give his help boldly, it would have looked like a los- “I never shall git a better chance} ter | ing fight for Dave, © look, an’ I'}] hustle while I kin.” he negro soon showed that he was a The premises occupied by Oates and his | thorough desperado, Flip saw his band go allies had about the same arrangement as a | into his pocket, and then come out clasping flat, and Flip preceeded to reconnoiter with- | a knife. out being under anybody's eyes. He swung the blade up over Star- ling, and the boy knew he must stop that *‘T don’t think the box is in the office ner | stroke in some way. the room where Davey is arguin’ Nebraska ellerquence, so et must be here. Git a move on an’ show yerself.” He hastened forward and looked his sharp- . Flip’s wits did not fail him. He suddenly staggered against the negro so epi that Tim lost his feet and tumbled over. lip promptly fell with him, and est, but not a sign did he discover of the box | both sprawled on the flcor. in the first room, He kept on, running about like a hunting-dog on the t his chagrin he saw only furniture, and not’| like a rubber ball. very much of that, At last he brought up at the rear of the building. “Done up, by gum!” he admitted. it’sin here the blamed thing is well hid. fer a cent on my theory that Ad Oates has it somewhere. I wonder where?” Twisting his face humorously Flip was _ about to give further notice to his conundrum | Don’t ye try ter git ont 0’ when he heard unexpected sounds from the front, rooms. “ Ef | noticeable. 1| must make a diversion’ to save both Dave . don't think it isin here, but I don’t weaken | and himself. The negro was not especially agile, and rail; Much to| before he could rise Flip had bounded up Nothing could keep him down. : Starling had sunk into a chair, and his dull eyes and generally demoralized air were His wily friend felt that he He squared himseli off before Dave and spoke with a show of excitement. ‘Stay right where you be, old man! that chair or I will hammer you fer keeps. You miserable old chump, w’ot do ye mean by comin’ inter this ‘Crickey! what is that?” he cried. ‘‘ They | private mansion an’ kicking up g fons Jest ee ” have started a circus, et seems, an’ I reckon | you set still or I'll thump ye. Davey is the clown. Back, old man, or there a pugilist, and Flip swung his arms like Dave was really looked decidedly fierce. | not in condition to object, and Flip had it all his own way. The boy stole a look at the gang, and saw that they did not seem to suspect his double dealing. Tim rose slowly and in a careful manner, as if not sure that his arms and legs were sound, He picked up his knife, but did not make any move to use it again. ‘‘T’ve got him!” added Flip. ‘‘ Come an’ Wait! did I hear somebody at the door?” He inclined his head, and all listened for a moment, Then the boy spoke in a whisper, ‘Hold on a bit an’ they will pass by, I reckon.” He had not heard anybody at the door, but he was playing his part well to give Dave time. If the ranchman once regained his strength and mental ability, there was, he thought, no danger of violence being done. ‘“My head is most broke!’ lamented Susan, suddenly. “ Do somethin’ ferit!” urged. Flip. ‘‘ Don’t neglect it, mum, Get a wet cloth an’ have it bandaged, quick!” ; ‘‘Bother the hurt!” snapped Violet; “‘ we want todo this gent first!” and she nodded toward Dave. “'l’row him out o’ the winder!” suggested Flip. Starling abruptly raised his head. «You will come ter grief if you try it!” he declared. ‘*Oh! don’t you git sassy!” warned Flip. ‘Gimme the knife, Tim, an’ let’s settle this. Keep still, you wild Western wonder!—no monkey biz here, by gum! Be we ter do him up?” Tim looked at Violet, buf she shook her head decidedly. ‘No violence, men! We were forced into this fight, and the knife was drawn under severe temptation, We are law-abiding citi- zens—” ‘Right you be!” echoed Flip, “‘ No law- lessness ain’t our size, but we hev ter de fend our lives from Western toughs. See?’ He winked slyly to Violet, and conducted himself with a swagger which went far to- ward giving him standing with his employ- ers. In fact, the bey’s assumption of wick- edness when he was all the while so anxious to aid Dave had been capital acting, and the whole pretense a great success. Starling suddenly rose. ‘Ef ycu want more o’ me you kin get it he sturdily declared. ‘‘ Et is fer you ter take yer pick. Do you object ter my goin’ out?” He moved toward the doer. “Object!” cried Violet, with scorn. ‘‘ What. do you take us for? Do you think you are es a man big enough to interest us? All we want is for you to keep where you belong.” You want ter blu ge ** Bother your girl! ’ We know nothing of her-—’ ‘*] say you have herin your power, some- where.” ** Rubbish!” “ You lured her away, and you broke up my home, Now, jest return her an’ I won’t make no fight. I'll go right back West an’ never be seen here no more. Only give me my gal! it, an’ I'll bless you. W my Nell?” The fighting spirit had died out of the ranchman’s mind, and be nearly broke down wholly. . His voice trembled pitifully, and tears stood in his eyes. His nature was simple, and like that of a child compared with that of the world-wise Violet. Flip saw that the young woman was quick to take advantage of the mood, ‘‘My good man,” she answered, ‘* you are all at sea, Wehavwen’t got your don’t knoW anything about her, Tarrytown was a myth,” | f “She went off with you—” £{ea ul + bird oi ; pM Sis H / Mb3 : a) re me out o’ findin’ my | l won’t go ter the police; Do | on’t you give me ell; we. it: ae
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an, tp ER NGS i? FEES SRS pe af terrupte _ Flip Flasher, Ferret. **Only for a few hours.” ‘* What then?—what then?” ‘Left me, saying she was going back to Nebraska. I guess she is there now.” Starling was silent, His opinions were a trifle shaken, but they were too exact to be given up without evidence. “You've said all this before,” he replied, with a sigh. ‘But it don’t bring my gal back.” “Not to you, though it may bring her to Nebraska,” ‘Maybe, maybe! Wal, I ain’t makin’ no advance here, so I will go an’ look fer her elsewhere. I hope I shall find her.” His lip trembled, and Flip» was deeply moved with fellow-feeling. He had not yet obtained the clue to the trouble between the two parties, but he well knew where his sympathies lay. He believed Starling to be a worthy man, and was quite sure the others were as bad as men and women were made, To the last remark Violet flippantly re- torted: ‘* Better go and look, then.” “T will.” The ranchman had been moving toward the door. He now paused near it and Jook- ed at his companions. There was enmity expressed there, and it was plain he did not take any stock in their denials. ‘“*T’ll go,” he added, ‘‘an’ when I find her Tl let you know. You shall hear from me again.” Flip was expecting a new outbreak, but the gang appeared to be worried by what had gone before, and they allowed Starling to go his way. He passed the door; his steps sounded on the stairs, and they were minus his presence. The trio remained in mute meditation, but Flip did not let any time go to waste. In his airiest way he exclaimed: ‘ ** Wal, that ’way-back has got a giant gall. W’ot biz bas he ter git gay an’ sass us New Yorkers?” Violet turned sharply upon the speaker. ** What do you know about this?” she de- manded. ‘*‘I know he smashed me until I’m black an’ blue.” - ‘*Do you know the man?” ‘Me? Know a sage-hen from the howlin’ plains?—an’ me a New Yorker? Mum, you mean wal, I’ve no doubt, but you hurt my rib s. Do 1 know him? No, siree; I do no ‘‘ What do you think of our trouble?” “Hey! but wasn’t it a jim-hickey scrap?” cried Flip, with enthusiasm, _ = I mean, do you know what the difficulty oe What was it?’ bluntly asked the You are too inquisitive, I don’t know whether to trust you or not.” ‘‘He fought well fer us,” reminded Susan, “So he did,” put in Tim, “He nigh about saved my life. Violet was the most intelligent of the trio, Consequently she was the least inclined to accept Flip as a trustworthy member of the arty, but she was influenced by this chorus. ike the others, she had failed to detect any double dealing in the boy’s method of fight- ing, and she began to lose her doubts, _‘*Tiat man,” she explained, ‘‘is a hay. seed from the West who is trying to make a muss for us. Don’t give any heed to what he says,” “Crickey! I knew he was a chump the minute I set eyes on him, The only mis- take we made was not ter do him up, Why, I advised it then. Ef you had took my ad- vice, We wouldn't hev left a vest button of him ter tell the story. I tel! yer what, these hayseeders must be took down!” Flip waved his hand wildly in his pretense of earnestaess, but, just then, they were in- d as ths door again unclosed, A “15 iy nn Se eee eee q einstellen SS « i y 5 U man walked in, and Fiip could hardly avoid a start of uneasiness. The new-comer was no stranger. ‘* Hey!” he thought, excitedly, ‘‘that’s the galoot 1 follered from the alley ter this dive, last night! I’m hot inter it!” CHAPTER VIL. FLIP IS ACCUSED. THe man who had just arrived was not a prepossessing looking fellow. He was squat of form and red of face, and there was a gene- ralair of evil propensities about him not like- ly to enlist decent people as his friends. Flip could not swear to the face, but the | figure was so much like that of the man he had followed that he felt sure of his posi tion. He was not’pleased with the discovery; he wished the man had kept away. The stranger paused at sight of Flip, but Violet broke the silence quickly. ‘* Martin, I’m glad you’ve come,” she averred. Martin looked at her. “* Why?” / ‘‘ We have had trouble here—” ‘7 suspected it, He is a spy.” “ Who?” Martin leveled a fat finger. “ This boy!” It was Flip who was thus accused, but he kept up his courage. He was getting accus- tomed to difficulties. Deliberately he turned and looked toward the rear, and then, again turning, fixed a puzzled gaze on Martin. ‘‘ There ain't nobody here,” he remarked. ** Ain’t you here?” ‘No, I’m over in Scotch Plains, New Jer-. sey. Ha, ha! Excuse me fer jokin’, mister; I meant no harm. Yes, I’m here, but I don’t see the spy.” “You are him,” ‘*?’m a—what?” ‘* 7 say you are a spy.” **Ob, Hannah Q. Jones, w’ot are you giv- in’ of us? Spy fer w’ot? Whose little spy be I? Mister, shuffle the cards over an’ let us have a, deal with the checker-board side up ” . Flip was as light-hearted and cheerful as ever, but he was ignored. Mr. Martin turn- ed to Violet, ‘Is this the new boy?” *tVes.” \* He is a spy.” ‘* Say, you make me weary,” said. Flip. ‘* You ought terhevatip on yer teeth, an’ that means youtalktoo much, I don’t know the meanin’ 0’ this, an’ I guess you don’t; if you do, spit it out. Start up the fire-works!” ** Do you know a house which has an en- trance on an alley as well as on the street?” sharply asked Martin. ‘ Flip could not fail to see that Peter Main- ford’s house was meant, but this did not wor- ry him in the least. His old rollicking smile was on Lis face, ‘«That’s Mike Culver’s saloon. Know it? Why, my Uncle Dan rushes the growler that way every night—” ‘* Shut up!” ‘* Allright,” cheerfully replied Flip. «Do you mean to say you are not the boy T saw last night?” ‘“Can’t say as to that, fer I don’t know where you was; but I don’t know you. guess I’m not the hairpin you hev in mind, mister.” ‘There was a fire,” suggestively remarked Martin. Flip shook his head. ! ‘*] didn't attend no fire last night,” he as- serted, * Boy, I don’t believe you!” declared Mar- tin, suddenly. ‘This thing must be sifted; I want to know who you are.” “T ain’t no card with me—” ‘Until Iam sure you are all right I will put you under a trifle of restraint, Now, here isa rope. I will put it onto you and tie FOUMP.” | | ‘ ‘‘Capital idea,” agreed Flip. “It wil jest about fit me. Kin you tie a sailor's knot, mister? Ef you can’t Ill show you. That sort o’ knot will jest about keep me from breakin’ away.” Martin stopped short. “You are a cool one!” he exclaimed. “Either you are innocent, or your nerve sticks out further than a dude’s collar. Still, ef it is nerve, it shows you are dangerous, an’ I'll tie you up.” He advanced, but at that moment a voice sounded at the door. ** Stop!” Addison Oates walked into the room, ‘Put away the rope,” he directed. “I | am not going to have my men used that way.” But the boy is a spy,” remonstrated Martin. ** Prove it!” “‘T think I saw him last night at—” ‘Yes, yes; I know. Can you swear to that?” No.” ‘‘Then don’t be so fast to worry my em- ployees. From my point of view your sus- picion is ridiculous. The boy is an honest boy, and one of the noble, bright youth of this section.” ‘That is a fact!” interrupted Flip, not too modestly. ‘He is not to be troubled under mere sus- picion.” “Send fer Dick,” quickly requested Mar- tin. ‘‘He had a much better look at them than I did—he will be able to say positively whether it is the boy I think.” ‘‘Tim,” ordered Oates, ‘‘go for Dick. Hump yourself!’ ‘«T’m off, sah.” The negro hurried away on his errand, while ali the others satdown. Flip followed the general example, and was, outwardly, as cool as anybody else; but he was not so well satisfied as he seemed. ments a man was coming who could identify him beyond question, and it looked as if the boy was going to have serious trouble. ‘* Guess I'll git slashed up,” he thought. ‘They will prove me ter, be a giddy fraud, an’ then off will go my head. I don’t like the gleam in their bonny blue eyes—they bad as soon do a feller up as not, Anyhow, I've got a pointer on them: they hev jest as good as confessed that they was in the alley last night. Flip, my boy, you are on the trail, with bugles blowin’, The only drawback is that you may hev yer own funeral before you score yer victory.” ‘‘It was a melancholy prediction, but he did not let it disturb his outward serenity. He smiled the old, happv-go lucky smile and talked his full share. Hesaw that Mar- tin was the only one inclined to doubt him, and he set himself to work to increase the good opinion that the others held of him. If he escaped the exposure which threaten- ed him he wanted to be fully in the swim later on. ‘‘Shoot that Dick!’ he meditated. ‘‘ Ef he comes an’ gives me away I will make East Broadway how] fer this, by gum!” It was a period of uneasy waiting,” but Black Tim finally drifted in again, and he came along. ‘« Where’s Dick?” asked Oates, ‘*He wa’n’t in.” ** Where was ha?” ‘“T reckon he was out on our private biz, by w'ot I saw,” replied Tim, with an air of — secrecy. Oates turned his gaze upon Flip. He seemed to study the boy keenly, but Flip had never been more at ease in appearance. Suddenly the black-whiskered gentleman spoke. ‘*Come tothe office. I have a dozen let- According to state- ° - ters I want you to deliver in person, and it is time to do it.” “Where?” inquired Martin abruptly. \ : —: Ls ae ere tS ~- 4 ‘
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== Flip Flasher Ferret. ** All over.” * Are yon goin’ ter send this kid out on the street, alone?” fe) OB. “Then you will do a mighty rash thing—” **Oh, bother! Come, boy!” ; Oates turned toward the office, and Flip fofowed. At the door he turned to say, meekly, to Mr. Martin: ‘* Boss, please don't be too rough on a poor orfin whose parents is dead. In the end you will find I am a chieken without a pin- feather on me. Wait an’ see.” Martin glowered darkly, but as he said nothing the argument was not continued, Flip went with Oates to the office and re- ceived the letters. ‘* All are duly addressed,” explained he of the black- whiskers, ‘‘ and you have only to go and deliver them. When it is done, if you want a short time off to play with your mates, take it. Return here witbout too much delay, though.” “‘ Thankee, sir,” humbly answered Flip. ** Another thing—don't mind Moon Martin. He’s cranky at times,” Flip pulled his lip down ‘until his face looked long and woe-begone, wiped his eyes and replied: “‘ He hurt my feelin’s, Martin did.” “Don’t mind him. Now, be off and do the errands.” Flip went. His tender feelings were not so seriously ‘“‘hurt’’ but that he recovered when on the street. He chuckled and wink: ed at vacancy as if highly amused. ‘** Say, but I’ve had more fun than a goat!” he declared, ‘‘ Yes, an’ ef I ain't lost my grip on the cable the cars are runnin’ right on, ter land this outfit o’ sharks inter Sing Sing. Go ahead, Flip, my boy: I'll back ye up every time!” d Examination of the letters showed that hey were addressed to men with names that smacked strongly of Polish and Russian nationality, and Flip did not doubt that they were som. of Oates’s victims. It appeared to be to the boy's interests to deliver them fn due form, and he was hastening along with this object in view when he suddenly noticed a familiar flgure just ahead, ‘* Tullo, there’s Shoestrings, sure as I live! He's nedd.in’ them everlastin’ laces as glib as ever. I wonder—” Flip paused, looked around with an air little less than wiid, and then swooped down upon Shoestrings in a way whiclr startled his more easy-going friend. Shoestrings, un- conscious of his proximity, was suddenly seized in Flip’s tenacious hold, and then the latter thrust the letters into Shoestrings’s hands, ‘*Say, take them an’ deliver them where they’re directed ter. See? Don’t miss doin’ it. So-long!” With this Flip rushed rapidly off, leaving amazed Shoestrings: gazing at him in blank wonder. . ‘*T guess he’s gone crazy!" muttered Shoe- strings. CHAPTER VIII. A (CRY POR, HELP, Fp had not gone crazy; there was abund ant method in his course, even if it was ec- centric. His excitement was caused by sight of a man he knew. This man had dawned upon his vision suddenly, and stirred the street boy into new desires. The man was Moon Martin, and he was proceeding along the street with 4 compan- jon bound on some business to Flip un- known. ‘*] wonder ef the other man is the Dick that Moon was so anxious should see me?” thought the pursuer, go ‘* He is somebody, an’ why ain’t the chance good that he is that same Dick? Ul! see where they go ” ra It was not difficult to follow them success By H i ‘ - n fully. They did not appear to fear pursuit, and their straightforward course made Flip’s task easy. Several blocks were traversed, and then they paused briefly in front,of a big, rambling old building. Jt was no strange’ place to the watcher. He had been there himself in the past. He knew the structure had been put up as a tenement-house, but that parts of it had been given up to business and human beings were mixed in together with- out much regard for system, Moon and his companion entered, “ W'ot be they in there fer?” muttered Flip. will, “Here goes!” Close to where they bad entered was a small room used as an office. Luto this place ne hurried. A dull-looking man {sat smoking a black pipe. ‘* Hullo, Gus!” eried Flip ‘Hullo, boy. Vas dot you?” ‘No, et’s my brother. But, see here, Gus, did you see them men go in, jest now?” ‘‘ No. Y'at.men?” **Moon Martin was one.” ‘‘Dunno him,” replied Gus, shaking his head. i** Don’t he live here?” “ Dunno.” ‘* Say, ain’t you the janitor?” “Yes, I vas dot, but I don’t know more than half der beobles who live here an’ vork here. ‘How can I, ven dey are a t’ousand or more?” Flip knew the building, and he was not at all surprised. Say, Gus, I want ter hunt an’ see where them gents flopped down.”’ ‘Go along an’ do it, den. free ter all.” Gus was wholly phlegmatic, and as Flip knew his last words were true he waited for no more. Hurrying out to the street he re- entered by the same door Moon Martin had. used. Before him was a stairway, and he bounded nimbly up the steps. Once on the next floor he saw a long hall with doors opening off at iutervals, but there was no sign of Moon. He stopped short, uncertain what to do, ‘This floor or the next?” he inquired, half aloud, ‘‘They are mostly offices here, an’ livin’ rooms on vhe next. Was they after a business call, or a social one?” There was no way of settling the question off-hand, so he followed the dictates of his judgment. He went up another flight of stairs, He was now in another hall, and sounds cume from various points, It was where people lived, though dirt and other things told how little such quarters were to be desired. ‘*Beat out!” muttered Flip, in disgust. Der house vas ‘I'd like ter know, an’ by crickey! I | ‘‘The long and short of it is you can’t go away!” angrily declared an unseen man. **T will gol” The retort was in a feminine tone, and Flip, every ready to appreciate pluck, mur- mured ‘ Brave fer her!” ‘* How will you do it?” sneered the man. ‘*T just simply will not stay here.” ‘The door is locked.” ‘*IT command you to open it!” ‘*T think I see myself doin’ it!” ‘* 1 will call for help.” ‘* Do you think it would do any good?’ ‘‘There are other people in this build- ing.” “Call to them an’ see ef they will worry about you.” ‘‘Do you mean they are all villains like you?” ‘‘T mean that they are’ people who mind their own business.” “AndIam a prisoner among such vile creatures?” ‘Ef you think you ain't, try ter git out.” *Scoundreli” ‘Ha, ba! I like your way—keep it up!” Flip grimaced in disgust. ‘* Wal, now, that’s a pretty gang. Got a woman prisoner, an’ now they sneer at her and cut up like pirates, Wonder ef I won't fit in here somehow? IJ’d like a hand in the can party.” Thus far the unknown woman had been defiant, but her firm voice wavered as she spoke again. ; ‘ ‘IT do not know why you persist in mis- using me“thus. What harm did lever do you? Open the door and let me go away, and I will return immediately to Nebraska.” ‘*Eh?—what?” muttered Flip. ‘‘ Want ter go home, do you?” laughed the man, ‘‘A good many kids get that feelin’. Reg’lar case 0’ home-sickness, ain’t it?” “You know very. well what it is, sir. Where is my father? Hag he fallen a victim to the vile plot by which you lured us here? Where is David Starling?” ‘‘T thought so,” murmured Flip. ‘‘ That voice is Moon Martin’s, an’ he’s got Dave's gal here. Say, Flip, old man, you want ter git a move on immediate. Hey, but I'll jest about bag this gang before the sun sets. Don't hurry, Old Sol!’ He glanced at the orb of day, which was nearing the horizon. From below came the voice of Moon Mar- tin, ‘You may as well stop this whimperin’. Et none o’ your business where Davey is, an’ I won't tell. Tcome in because I heard you had been cuttin’ uv rusty, Now, this must stop. Wedon't want no muss, an’ we won't hev none, Ef you are decent we will use you wal, but lam here ter say that ef you ‘“‘T can't run inter them rooms, an’ I guess | don’t act mild, we'll make you wish you had. my web is spun. Moon may be here, but ef he is, he’s as safe as a fly in the coffee.” The speaker run his hands down into his pockets and added dismally: ‘** Hang it!” His gaze wandered and he noticed that the scuttle which led to the roof was open. He did not know any good reason why this fact should interest him, but, as he did not sce anything else to do, he moved that way mechanically. He mounted the ladder and stood on top of the building. At various points there were other scuttles, and these, he readily understood, must lead to the several private; rooms below. He went close to one, which was open, and lis- tened, but nothing was to be heard. If anybody was below there was no voice to tell of it, . He moved along a few feet to a second opening. This time he was more successful —voices rose to him plainly He listened, See?” ; ** 1 see, ef she don’t!” muttered Flip. He had been lying down with his head pe to the scuttle, but he now leaped to his eet. “Moon is in an ugly mood, an’ he’s dan- gerous!" added the spy. ‘I guess I don’t want ter Jose no time in gettin’ help fer the gal. It will end my game with Addison Oates, but et must be done, Hullo!” fle had reached the point where he had come up, and had gone with the intention of descending, but he stopped right there. The scuttle had been closed. F \ He reached down and tried to lift it. ‘*Fastened, by gum!” Flip did not give up at once, and he pulled with all his strength, but in vain. He could not lift the door. ‘‘T shall hev ter go down through some: body else’s rooms,” was his decision. ‘*] don’t like ter, fer it— What's that?” A seream sounded from where he had left though without expectation of results inter- | Moon and the captive. esting to him, “Help, help!” was the cry. > \
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a“ Oe 2 a 4 Flip Flasher, Ferret. CHAPTER IX. A LIVELY STRUGGLE. Furp rushed to the scuttle. He did not know what was occurring below, but he be- lieved Moon Martin capable of almost any- thing, and he feared for the safety of the captive woman. Again sounded the cry— ‘Help, help!” ‘*“By gum! I can’t stand that! Here goes!” Flip rushed down the steps, taking consid- erable risk of breaking his neck inthe head- long pace. . When he was at the bottom he Was in almost total darkness, but he readily distinguished a passage beyond, and he made a few more leaps and was in a room, There, too, the light was very faint, but he distinguished two persons in a struggle. ‘* Boys,” he cried, in his usual airy fash- ion, ‘‘count me inter this gambol, All hands around!” He flung himself into the two persons with the full impetus of his rush, and one of them was bowled over likeaten-pin. This person went sprawling on the floor, ‘«That’s the way I did when I was center- rush on the Rag-pickers’ Football team,” lightly added the boy. The man sprung to his feet ** Who did that?” he sharply demanded. “T did,” cheerfully answered Flip, ‘* but I didn’t know the gun was loaded.” *“Who in perdition are you?” ‘I'm Uncle Isaac’s nephew.” ‘* Where did you come from?” “Right from the place where I was be- fore 1 come.” The man stood in silence, Flip recog- nized his voice and knew it was Moon Mar- tin, but the semi-darkness of the room pre- vented the thug from recognizing him in return, The woman was close to Flip, and she whispered: ‘* Be careful or he will do you harm.” pee He ain’t built right,” confidently asserted ip. “Do you live in this house?” added the man. " Yes, I do!” replied Flip, warily. How dare you meddle here?” ‘*T thought et was some o’ the kids inter © scrap, 80 I took a hand. I’ma peach ata scrap. “ Well, get out o’ this room!” ‘«T guess I'll sorter stay an’ visit with you. elI'm a sociable sort of ‘a chrysanthemum, anyhow. I'll stay.” Get out, or I'll break your head!” Moon advanced threateningly, and his voice carried as much suggestion as his words. Again the woman whispered a word of warning, but Flip remained unconcerned. ‘Don’t rush the cable car, mister, I can’t sce the door, it’s so blamed dark here,” al fps $1 143 ins ‘ OR; “a : : * + 5 ce ee, ET ay rm r Ftp ' % be IW aa ee as oie Bie - M pied , ietioes + a i ii if foe? vy " a wee e's = the stairs!” he leaped at the fellow and twined his arms eee eee — of the building he was dimly conscious that somebody else was near the door, but not until now had he looked fully, The look brought dismay. Shoestrings was there on the sidewalk, and standing with a bewildered air which told that he had recognized his friend and could not understand the situation, And he was directly in Moon’s path. CHAPTER X. MOON MARTIN’S MISHAPS. ALARMED for his ally's safety Flip had opened his lips to warn him, but at that mo- ment Moon Martin shot out of thedoor. The latter had met with a tumble when coming down, and he looked dusty and bruised, but the mishap had only rendered him the more ugly. He was frantic with rage, and eager to get his hands on the author of all this trouble. Unluckily for Shoestrings he was the only person near the door, and while the meek vender of shoe-laces stared Moon pounced upon him, ‘*T’ve got you!” cried the tough. Ee had, beyond doubt, but Shoestrings did not understand, “* Wh—wh—what?” he stammered. ‘* No use o’ your tryin’ ter git away, you brat!” ‘**T ain’t a brat, sir.” “You're a thief!” “Wot?” ‘‘ You've stole from me.” ‘“* Oh, oh!” cried Shoestrings, horrified. “Give me that watch back,” ** W'ot watch?” “The one you stole from me.” Moon had decided on a plan of action. It would never do to confess that a boy had come in and stopped him while he was seek- ing to whip a woman. More, the intruder ought to be silenced, if possible, If he could be locked up as a thief his counter charges would not go for much, “The mean skunk!” catching the scheme. Shoestrings was not so quick-witted, and he simply stared at his accuser in blank dis may. ** T_T don’t understand,” he replied. “You will hev time ter do that when you git to the Tombs, Youshall be shut up an’ made ter sweat fer this. Where’s that watch, you thief?” ‘‘Tain’t got yer darned old watch!” cried Shoestrings, with a sudden rush of pluck. ‘* Let me go, you old crook!” “ Out with it. Where’s that watch, I say?” Moon saw people looking from adjacent windows, and some pedestrians were begin- ning to gather. He lect. all hear what he said, and his hands clawed over Shoestrings in search of the alleged missing article. , Now, under an exterior of meekness Shoe strings hid plenty of courage, and bewilder- ment was beginning to give place to anger. He did not like to be called a thief, nor did he like to have Moon so free with his per- son, ‘“Lemme go!” bravely. Moon held on, “Take that, then!” Shoestrings’s patience was gone, and he shot out his small fist, and took his enemy a sharp tap in the nose. It made Moon’s head fly back ,and it made him utter a cry of pain, and then came a little rivulet of red from Moon’s nose, Flip Fairly danced with joy. ** Oh, ain’t that kid a peach!” he exclaim- ed, exultantly. The victim of this blow was now more en- — raged thanever. He wasa big, burly fellow, and if he had been battling with a man he would have made it hot for him withont de- lay, but he was well aware that the gathering — Ne AL 4 muttered Flip, he repeated, struggling
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10 Flip Flasher, Ferret. crowd would not tolerate such violence on his part—now. ‘That settles it!’ he cried; ‘‘ you are a thief, an’ now you'll go ter the lock-up. Come along!” He began to pull, and Flip’s joy faded away. It would be hard to prove that Shoe- strings was not the wanted boy unless his own identity was revealed, and this never would do. Flip decided on another plan, Thus far no policeman was in sight, and the crowd was inclined to give hearty sympathy to Shoestrings. Flip did not believe they would change their allegiance, and he acted with this theory in mind. Moon’s back was toward the building, and Flip suddenly shot out from his hiding. place. Putting all of his vim into the at- tempt he ran headlong into Moon, and once more that luckless person sprawled in the dust. ; “* Run, mand. He was afraid he would not be obeyed, so he caught at his friend’s arm and pulled him along. Shoestrings’s wits returned to him, and when they came he did not need urging. Side by side, the boys darted off down the street, The much-upset Mr. Moon Martin regained his feet after a struggle, but when he did so he just caught a glimpse of the pair as they swiftly receded. ‘* Stop them!” he implored. It was a mechanical cry, for they were well away from everybody’s reach, but he was not disposed to give in so tamely. He rush ed in pursuit, but when he turned the first corner he stopped short. The boys were not to be seen anywhere, A convenient alley had afforded them means of retreat to the next strect, but the pursuer was long in making this discovery, and when he did so they were several blocks off and perfectly safe. When Flip was as- sured of the latter fact he let up on his rapid gait, much to Shoestrings’s relief. “T guess we are goin, ter hev a thaw,” re- marked Flip, ‘‘ I feel kinder warm.” ‘Oh! Flip, w’ot has happened?” ‘*One moment, my frien’, Did you de- liver them letters?” abe Sg ‘*That’s right; always be faithful ter your trusts, an’ sometime you will be a poll-clerk in an election deestrict an’ git rich.” “ W’ot was the trouble at that house?” ‘*Nothin’; only you had a scrap an’ smacked a feller in the nose.” ‘I mean before that—w’ot trouble did you have?” **Wal, me an’ Moon Martin was playin’ football, an’ I bucked the center an‘ he tack. led foul, an’ I went around the end fer a gain o’ two yards—” ‘“Flip, will you be serious?” ‘* Mr. Shoestrings, ter be frank, 1 hev been rickkershayin’ with our enemies, the fire- bugs.” “Was that them?” ‘*T guess et was.” ** You are awful reckless,” ‘“*Not a hair; not a hair! You see, I’ve sold out ter the enemy an’ entered their em- ploy. Moon isa bit cranky, an’ me an’ him had a scrap, but we didn’t hurt each other. Et was all in good part, only I remonstrated against his usin’ the galso— Say where is that gal?” : “ 'W’ot one?” *' Didn't you see nobody come flyin’ out 0’ the house ahead o’ me?” ‘* Why, yes; there was a young lady did that.” ‘* Where did she go?” ’ “Off down the street.” Shoestrings!” was Flip’s com- t Fast?” ; weeks ago, I was standing at the mouth of | hasn’t come for it. She was a nice-looking ** Yes,” | the alley, looking out inter the street. It | girl, too—so fine and straightforward of look, ‘‘Then le’s go home. We might as wal | was one of those damp. foggy eveningsjwhich | you see. She wasn’t a bit like most girls hunt fer a Welsh rabbit in a menagerie. ‘are peculiar to New York, and folks had | around here,” i poss { ‘ \ 1 2 Voli Sib Eire Ne Pe ee oh res ret na a Bg a Ue raha OBE aie. iy, ‘ae X ee 2h ph a. aR ee ea a a “ We'll go home— No, we won't; we'll go an’ see Peter Mainford. I want ter know how he’s comin’ on with his case.” ‘*T want ter hev supper, an’ then godown by the ferry an’ sell some shoe-laces,” ‘*My frien’, your habits o’ industry will make you bankrupt some day. Shoot yer old shoe-strings! _Come along with me!” The younger boy was accustumed to hav- ing Flip domineer over him, and as he always yielded, he did so now, They went to Peter’s house and were soon in conversation with him. Flip had said nothing to Shoestrings about his latest adventures, and he was not more precipitate with Peter. That man was in despair, His house had been damaged by the fire, but he had insur- ance on his goods, so he would lose nothing. It was different with the model of his inven. tion. He was quite sure that if he could getit back before somebody else had used it to secure a patent he would become the rich- est man in the world—so he expressed it. ‘* Just think,’ he added, with enthusiasm, “what it would be to have our streets lighted with electricity not as they are now —with a big, glariug light remote from its fellow lights—but small lights only a few inches apart—little jets attuched to the reds which would run under the eaves of every house and business building,in New York. A big light, strong, steady, mild, glorious, Think of it!” He jumped up and began to pace the room excitedly, reveling iu the thought. ‘“How about expense?” inquired Flip. ‘No greater than now. My plan would fix that.” ‘‘T hope ter see it, boss.” ‘* You shall if the model is recovered.” ‘* How many men hey you told this to?’ ‘‘Nobody but the companies I have tried to sell to.” : ‘* No rivals?” ae No.” ‘‘Ever hear of a man named Addison Oates?” ** No. ‘Or Moon Martin?” $ Noy? Flip bad another question ready, but he suddenly paused as he caught sight of a something which seized upon his interest. ‘Say, is that another electric light box?” he demanded, abruptly. CHAPTER XI. A MYSTERIOUS TRUST. As Flip asked the question he pointed to emphasize it, and Mainford easily under- stood, i ‘*No,” he responded, ‘‘ that is a different thing. In fact, I don’t know what it is.” ‘*]t’s a box.” ‘I know, but IL am wholly ignorant, of the nature of its contents.” ** You don’t say so. How is that?” As Flip spoke he rose and went to the ob- ject referred to. It was a box of wood, and quite stoutly made. It was not large, but it had arrested Flip’s attention for good rea- ” sons. There is a story attached to that box,” explained Peter Mainford, ‘‘It came to me inan odd way.” ‘* Who from?” ‘*T don’t know.” ** How is that?” “ It was left in my charge, but by whom and for what reason I can’t say, because I don’t know.” ‘‘That looks right mysterious on the sur- face, but mebbe you kin take the kinks out ef you will. Develop the secret, Peter, will er; ‘I think I may safely tell all Iknow. It was like this. One rainy evening, about six — EEO eee their umbrellas up even if the rainfall wis slight. ** While I stood there, seeming to be the only idle person in the vicinity, my attention was suddenly arrested by sight of a young woman who was coming down the street with a burden in her arms so big and heavy that she walked with difficulty. ‘‘ Briefly, it was the box you sce yonder, but, as it was then covered with a cloth, I could make out no more than that it was mighty heavy forher. Hardly anybody was on the street, and she received no attention from anybody, but when only a few fect from me she suddenly staggered, leaned the burden against the wall of a house and then let it fall to the ground, ‘**T can go no further!’ she exclaimed. ‘‘T thought she had a good face, and I was so moved with pity that I stepped out into plain sight and said: *** Can I help you, miss?’ ‘‘She started nervously, but I suppose she noticed that I did not look like a thief. She soon quieted down, «What can you do?’ she asked, with commendable directness, ‘** Well, I might give you a lift, or house the burden you have’—you see, I didn’t want to volunteer too much in a wet night—‘or I would go for a carriage, if you say so.’ ‘**Do you live near here?’ she demanded, almost fiercely, I thought, ‘* «Right here, miss,’ I replied. ‘* Are you an honest man?’ ‘«« 7 think so,’ I said, after meditating for a, bit. ‘** Would you keep| this box for me?’ ‘* «Tf you wish, yes,’ ; **« Let me look at you!’ ‘‘She came up right in front of me, and we faced toward the nearest street lamp. The light was not strong, for the fog was thick, but the way sbe looked at me was enough to enable her to read my very heart. It was a trifle trying to me, but her manner was all in her favor—I did not get angry or worried. F ‘* Finally she started back. «Enough! she cried, ‘I know I can trust you; you are honest!’ ‘*Then she made herself a little plainer. She couldn't carry the box any further, and she was in trouble. She was law abiding, she assured me, and had nothing to fear ex- cept that she had enemies; but she had great, need of that box being sheltered, ‘‘ Boys, it seems very queer, even now, total stranger!” ‘* What then?” demanded Flip, eagerly. ‘*She went off, and I haven’t seen her since.” ** W’ot was her name?” “She didn’t give it.” “«That’s odd,” ‘So it is; but she was confused, and 30 was I, I guess. Anyhow, I took the box in for her, and there it is, She never has beeu after it, nor have I heard: from her, nor de [ know where she lives, or one single thing about her,” ‘« W’ot’s in the box?” asked Shoestrings, quickly, ‘‘T don’t know. She didn’t say, and [ haven't opened it. The box is fastened.” Flip was thinking. His head was lower. ed, and he seemed to find something very absorbing. He said nothin ‘Do you really think it ceeded Shoestrings. “*Tt may be.” ‘Then why don’t she come after it?” ‘IT don’t know. There is a good deal of trouble in this world. The girl was in trou. ble then, and she may be worse off now. I can’t. help suspecting that that is why she is valuable?” pro- but she corfided the box to me—andI[ a: ‘ 4) |
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Flip Flasher, Ferret. Flip looked up suddenly. ‘*W’ot was the p’ints o’ difference, mis- ter?” he asked. ‘Oh! her dress, her complexion, and her general manner and looks.” **Hayseedy ?” ‘** Not exactly, but I don’t think she was a city girl.” ** Sorter sunburned ?” ** Yes,” ** Red hair?” ‘“*Oh! no; black hair.” ‘* A little bit cross-eyed.” ‘Indeed she was not; she was a fine-look- ing girl, say. She had a good face, with rosy cheeks and rich black hair, and she had a form of health, too. Just about what one would expect in a Western girl.” Flip pounded his knee forcibly. ‘“* Just so, by gum!” he cried, loudly. ‘* What do you mean?” “T mean that you have been barkin’ up the wrong tree. You accuse somebody o’ stealin’ your model. Now, ll! bet my up- pers your model ain’t worth shucks ter the thieves who got iv!” Mr. Mainford looked decidedly miffed. ** Why shouldn’t it be, when they took all the trouble, and its cash value is—” ** Hold hard, Peter! They took et by mis- take!” “e af es. ** Impossible!” py Peter, I ain’t a second-sight chicken, but you kin bet high lam right on this. The thieves made a mistake on boxes. That is the box they meant ter get.” He pointed to the mysterious article left by the girl. “*Why do you think that?” asked Main. ford, somewhat bewildered. “‘ Because it looks reasonable. I don’t know w’ot is inter this box, but it was 0’ value ter the girl, an’ it was the same ter the thieves, That is the box they tried fer, Peter, not yours,” ‘Ts it so valuable as that?” **1 don’t know its value.” “Then why do you ascribe any value whatever to it? How do you know it has value?” Flip moved uneasily in his chair. He had become deeply interested in his detective case, and he wished to carry it on to an end without help or hindrance from anybody. He knew he could not tell his story without having the whole police force for well-mean- ing but meddlesome allies. He meditated, and answered disingenuously: “Why, a man with a blind eye an’ a wen on his thumb-toe could see that. First, the girl was carrying the box along the streets of a rainy night when her strength wasn’t equal to it. Then she , confided t ter you, with many a word an beseechment. ext, the boxes are a good ‘eal alike, ef you don't look at them too sharp, f course they got the wrong box—this is the one the wanted.” / Mainford shook his head, “You do not prove your statement,” “ Never mind, the truth may come out,” “Yes, when the thieves rob me of my in- vention.” \ Flip was not di courage a man wh¢ ticulars, so he let Peter w ~ to, and kept his own counsel. ‘* Sort of a funeral panegyric, my friend; a farewell before I go inter noxious peril. Now Iam goin’. §So-long!” CHAPTER XII. A THRILLING ADVENTURE. Fuip started off, but his puzzled com- panion called him back and asked for an ex- planation. Young as he was he was a good deal like public persons of mature years—he wanted to make a sensation and be talked about and wondered over. ‘* Do tell me w’ot you mean!” urged Shoe- strings, whereupon the delighted but per- verse Flip came to business with brevity. ‘“T am on the track o’ them fire-bugs an’ thieves, an’ 1 am goin’ ter spill them inter the drink, ef they don’t do me up previous!” was the declaration, ‘“* How, Flip?” Then the elder boy told all. could trust Shoestrings implicitly, so he did not hesitate to explain the full situation. When it was done Shoestrings brightened up amazingly, “Tl belp you, Flip!” he cried, ‘* Course you will, old man.” “I'll go right there with ye.” ‘*Can’t be done. I am goin’ ter walk in on Addison Oates as cool as ef nothin’ had happened. There may be the biggest sort of a riot immediately after. Ef;Moon Mar- tin is there he may know me, Ef he does— oh! won’t 1 be inter et! Then there is their pal, Dick, whom I ain’t seen yet, so fur as I know. He is advertised ter know me when he sees me, I am goin’ right inter the lions’ den, Shoestrings, jest as Daniel did; an’ I may come out in the lion’s stomach,” It was not a pleasant prospect, but Flip did not waver, Even bis usually quiet com- panion was in favor of the plan, since it gave promise of fame and victory for them. ‘* Somebody ought ter, go ahead with it, an’ go inter their den,” argued Shoestrings, ‘*An’ I had rather you would do it then me.” ; ‘* All right: I’m the peach fer the job. All I ask is that you linger near so as ter preach my obituary ef they do me up. Come on!” They set off on their journey and soon ar- rived at the building where the Arizona Land Company made its quarters. There was no light in the office, and Flip saw that he would have to go direct to the living as seemed best, rooms to see the gang. ~ Toterio the house He posted Shoestrin and then went ahead, he moved up-stairs and reached the door. He tried it—it was locked. He knocked; there was no reply. He knocked again, but with the same result. ‘*Crickey!” he muttered, “‘have they flown the coop?” When he had repeated his summons he decided that he was beaten for the time be- ing, and he reluctantly retraced his steps and reported to his ally. ‘Either there ein’t nobody there, or they won’t answer,” was his summary, “‘T guess they hev got scared.” ** Like as not,” ‘*W’ot be we ter do?” : ‘*T don't see no use of tryin’ ter run them » wanted a full bill of par-| down, so we may as wal work another orry all he wanted | plan.” ** What?” ‘ Presently the two boys took their leave. ‘Try ter get sight o’ Dave Stagling or his ‘*Be you goin’ home now, Flip?” asked | daughter. Both o’ them are sémewheres, you know, an’ Dave, fer one, is likely ter be oung life inter wicked in their Pp ‘Shoestrings. aradin’ the street on his hunt. We may vital danger an’ beard the It was about the only chance left to them, g He knew he * mistake?” ” Be ee ee i sposed to try again to en. - figgerment, mebbe.” t } discoveries, they set out to try it. : Tam goin’ ter put my y 3 all in with them,” haunts o’ vice, much ter my corporeal dis- k | and, though they had no real hope of making Flip spoke in a deep, sepulchral and ne! This was just what Flip wanted. | } | mournful voice, and his choice of words uring the next few hours they covered a "was such that Shoestrings understood noth- | good deal of territory and encountered a apg, and was led to exclaim: x goo many different persons, but those be = ‘Gr-gr-great Scott! w’ot is that? 5 oy sough were not among the number. ti ual. 3 ee | nate) A “ 5 at - * ee a: eres | took out, an’ that’s why it is so still an’ dark = Finally their search grew aimless, and they found themselves down near the East River. Without any comments they con- tinued their walk and finally stood on the edge of a pier. ** All quiet,” murmured Flip. ‘‘ We are mightily torn up in mind, but I don’t see that the river feels ita bit. She seems ter flow on serencly, an’ the waves don’t boil an artom in the docks.” “See that old craft down yonder, F ** Yes,” ‘* It’s wreck, an’ left there. 1 i ip?” It was towed in yesterday All the things in it hev been there.” Wrecks are of interest, and Flip asked questions as to how this particular one had occurred. During the conversation they moved forward and stood close to the dis abled craft There was no watchman on the pier to stop them, nor did they see anybody on the craft. Obeying an idle impulse they slid down to the deck and stood looking around. *Le’s go down below,” suggested Shoe- strings. ‘* Maybe we'll git gobbled fer robbers, but ef they don’t care enough about the wreck ter set a watchman they can’t complain ef we doit. Down we go.” The utter darkness made their move- ments necessarily slow, but they finally stood in the main cabin. “ Uh-h-h!” muttered Shoestrings, ‘‘1I don't like this!” “* Why not?’ “Too dark,” “There ought ter be a lamp, or somethin” o’ the sort here. We will look fer one.” Shoestrings was willing his friend should do this, and he said so, whereupon Flip start- ed. While he had a general knowledge of the interior of a ship he did not know just where to search for what he wanted, and he was moving slowly along when he bad a suc. den shock. His arm was seized in a tenacious grasp. Flip started back; the unknown force held him secure. He gave a strong jerk—he fail- ed to free his arm. ‘‘Say, Shoestrings, is that you?” he de- manded, ‘*Yes, I'm here,” came the second ex- explorer’s voice from a point several feet away. ‘*Then what in blazes is this?” He struggled again to free his arm, but without result. Then the hostile force sud- denly became more aggressive. He was dragged forward. . ‘*Let go, shoot you!” he cried. ‘* W'ot is it?” demanded Shoestrings, from the rear. ‘*Lemme gc!—lemme go!” The voice floated back to Shoestrings, and he heard a struggle—then all became silent. He waited for a moment, uncertain whether Flip was joking or in trouble, but as the nl} continued Shoestrings became frightened. “* Flip!” he called. There was no reply. “* What are you doin’?” Whatever Flip was doing he did not cx- plain, and the younger boy had strong symp- toms of a panic. e was scared, and he wanted to run, but he was a loyal friend and would not go. If bis companion was in trouble he intended to stand by him. The darkness and stillness of tie cabin was. most impressive, and it seemed to Shoestrings that his heart was trying to jump out of his throat, Where was Flip?) Was anybody else there? Had trouble come to his ally? He saw only one way of solving these rid-. dles, and he took that way. ’ He began a slow advance. “Tm goin’ right toward where Flip went,” he thought. ‘I wonder w'ot will happea ter me?” ace The first thing that happened was a very — hati . ‘a a ' . es * lv ae 7 taeraee se a
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12 —— Fl ip Flasher, Ferret. creepy feeling all over him, and he wanted to / get time we will drown him like we have his back out but would not. He reached the dangerous spot and then stopped. ‘** See here!” he suddenly cried, with a sort of reckless bravery, ‘‘ is anybody here?” ** Yes, [am here!” It was a gruff voice by his side, and then he was seized and held as Flip had been. He, too, struggled in vain, avd he was dragged forward several feet. ‘*Lemme go—lemme go!” he cried, un- consciously repeating his ally’s very words. “Ha, ha, ba!” laughed the man who held him, but it was not a pleasant laugh, ‘Darn you, take that!” snapped Shoe- strings, and he drove his fist into the cap- tor’s body with force that brought a grunt of pain. Suddenly the darkness faded away. and the cabin became plain in allits parts. Shoe- strings’s eyes were dazzled, but he made out enough so he knew what the situation was, to a certain extent. By his side stood a negro, and a little ways off was a white man. There was no sign of Flip. The negro gave his captive a shake. ‘‘ How dared you hit me?” he demanded, ‘‘ How dared you ketch me?” retorted the boy. The white man came forward quickly. ‘* What were you doing in this cabin?” he snarled. ‘* Nothin’,” answered Shoestrings. “You are a thief.” **No, Lain’t; I ain’t took nothin’,” ‘You were the one that was taken. We nipped your scheme in the bud. . Still, your guilt is certain. You came in to steal.” ‘‘T thought the darned old ship was de- serted,” lamented the captive. “Do you think so now? change your mind.” If so, we will g CHAPTER XIII, EXCITING EVENTS ON THE WRECK. SuHoESTRINGS was worried, and all) the more so because he believed he, knew the man who was doing the talking. * That per- son had a big black beard, and he had_ not forgotten that Flip had pictured Addison Oates very much as this man looked, It might have been a wild theory on the boy’s part, but it was natural under the circum- stances. He was not too much frightened to forget his friend. In that crisis Flip would have seemed like a bulwark of safety, and his gaze wandered around the place. ‘‘ What are you looking for?” snapped the black-bearded man, “* The other boy.” “Dead!” * What?” ‘‘We tied a weight to him "and dropped iim into the dock. Unless heis part fish he is dead now—drowned,” ‘‘Oh!” gasped Flip. The white man surveyed the prisoner criti- cally for a moment, and then a half-smile crossed his face. He turned to the negro, “I guess, Tim,” he remarked, “this kid is no more than an idle wanderer of the piers, but we shall have to deal with him according to the plan he has himself marked | out. Silence him!” Black Tim's hand glided to Shoestrings's throat, and the last chance to sound an alarm was gone, The two men seemed to know - their business well, and in a‘short time their ; pe? efforts had rendered Shoestrings help- less, _ © Where shall we put him?” asked Tim. — “Ob! throw him into the state-room yonder,” was the careless reply, “Tt is one that was broke in the wreck.” ‘‘ Never mind; he can’t get clear with all fellow thief. Ha, ha! Won't it be rich | when the police find their bodies.” He of the black beard looked at Shoe- | strings and appeared to gloat over his pres- ent and prospective sufferings. Shoestrings showed his alarm. He was not a coward, and could stand up bravely when he had a chance, but who can fight bravely when there is no hope? ‘‘Away with him!” suddenly added the white man. The captive was picked up and tossed in- to the state-room. ‘““That comes of meddling, . leader, as they moved off. gs ‘* Yes. He should hev known better,” ) ” added the ‘*We must carry out our plan. He will die with the rest, but it will not be our fault,”’ Die? Shoestrings shivered as he heard the words. What terrible event was before them? He was in narrow quarters, for the ship had not boasted of elegance. The light that floated in from the cabin revealed a break in the wall of the state-room which looked ragged and suggested the wreck of which he had heard. This did not then seem of importance to him. **T shall soon go ter join Flip,” he thought, ‘Poor Flip! He was a faithful frien’ an’ an honest kid. He may be better off than when he was with me, but I think I shall be better off alive.” He still had view of the cabin, and he watched the two men there. They did not seem to think longer of him, and they acted as if worried about something. They talked in low tones, and he noticed that they occasionally walked forward and look- ed up toward the deck, “They’re expectin’ somebody,” thought the prisoner. ‘‘ I hope et won’t make things any worse than they are now, This is the very gang that we are after. Flip said the negro was named Tim, an’ that is w’ot this negro is called. I wish Flip— Poor Flip! It was awful that he had ter die so young. He always wanted ter be an alderman, an’ nuw he can’t.” Shoestrings paused to sigh, a start. The sigh was echoed close to him. ‘‘ Crickey ! who is that?” He looked around, and, dim though the light was, satisfied himself that nobody else was in the state-room, ** Mebbe et was Flip’s ghost!” he thought. Again the sigh. ‘*No, I don’t believe et is, Flip had kinder a husky voice, an’ this one is clear— Aullo!” There was an unmistakable stir close to him, and it settled one thing. it came Then he gave | from the next state-room, and just beyond the break in the wall before noted, | ‘* Somethin’ is in there. I wonder ef it’s | a human bein’? I'll try my luck with it. Say!” He whispered a call, lowering his voice until such a thing seemed safe. There was no reply, but again came the stir. 4 **Sa-a-ay !” . Again he whispered, but nothing ¢ame of it. ‘Et may be & tiger, or a snake!” This thought gave him a momentary chill, but the more he thought of it, the less he felt alarmed. ' ‘* Tigers an’ snakes wouldn't be no worse than them reptiles out there.” " He considered the possibility that Flip was still alive, but due meditation c | that, if this was so, the person or thing in the next room was not his ally. . He and Flip had numerous ways by whieh they could make themselves known to each other in |. such an emergeney, even if, their mouths were bound so as to prevent speaking. p ~ thoseropesonhim. Toss himin, Whenwe]| Plainly, he was not near Fup. +a, “i [ives i es Ps AEE 1 she pik an ’ “ it ei Lym t AED ips et ge dil ges ly ADL oe Bae i ret fis Se Ma ey ee NODE eee ee Te TN re | vinced him) Se SS ee eee ee J happens ter him,” added Tim, Present], there was sound of steps on he deck above. ‘“‘They come!” cried the man with the black beard. “ Shall I douse the glim?” asked Tim, ‘“‘No. Iheard Dick’s signal—this is our man. If he has the other fellow, all is well. Receive them.” The black-bearded man dodged into an- other state-room, and then the steps sounded on the stairs. Two men came down. Tim stood bowing and smiling blandly. ‘‘Good-evenin’, gents!” he spoke, ‘‘ Where’s the lady?” demanded one of the men. ‘* She’s makin’ her toilet, sah, but she will be here directly.” “‘T have brought her father. This is Mr, David Starling.” ‘Glad ter meet you, sah,” replied Tim, with another bow. ‘Hurry up the lady, ter see her.” ‘Ts my child really here?” demanded Dave Starling, quickly. ‘* Oh, yes, sah,” ‘Tt seems very queer ter me.” ‘Nothin’ so very queer, sah, You see, I own dis ship now it’s been in a wreek, an’ it lays right by this pier all the time. The lady she was down disaway when she was chased by toughs. She sprained her ankle, an’ they had things pretty much their own way until I sailed in an’ drove them off. Then 1 took her on board—” ‘‘T have explained all this,” broke in the third man, ** No doubt, Mister Dick.” ‘Briefly, the gal couldn’t walk on account o’ her ankle, but she was in powerful distress o’ mind, an’ the nigger seen me an’ got me ter go an’ hunt you up. Et was a wild- goose chase fer awhile,but I finally found ye, an’ here we be.” ‘Speak to Nell, an’ let her know I am here,” urged Dave. Tim promptly went to a door and rapped. “Say,” he cried, ‘‘ yer pais here. Hurry up!” "Then he bent his head, smiled and walked back. _ “ She says she will be out in a jiffy,” he added. / All this was seen and heard by Shoe- strings, It gave him a very uncomfortable feeling. He knew that Dave Starling was being deceived. He did not think Nell was on board the ship, and if she was it was cer- tain she was not free to go and come as they pretended. ‘‘Dave has run his head inter a trap!” thought the boy. ; There could be no doubt of that. Of course the black-bearded man was Addison Oates. He was well known to Dave, so he was keeping out of sight, but his tools ed deceiving Dave. lt was a trap, beyond oubt. sun ; Her father wants CHAPTER XI1Y, A TERRIBLE SCHEME. Snorstrrnas did some* clever thinking, If he was to believe all that had been said to him he could not make his own situation any worse, do what he might, and there was a possibility that prompt action might help Dave Starling. , ‘‘ By jing! I am goin’ ter sing out!” de- cided the captive. ‘‘Is’pose they will rush rivht in an’ do me up, but et must be tried. I'll holler an’ see—" Just then Dick broke a brief silence. “Excuse me fora moment,” he requested, “I think I heard a step on deck, We hev ter keep the tramps off. I'll go up, but Il come right Lack.” \ He had been mov while he spoke, and he now hastened up. *“Mebbe I had better sce that nothin’? — ODN jest) , 1.4 : id 9h gE ih rt), en Pitt Wipes ing toward the stairs _
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5 ¢ ig ae es a ee rte Flip Flasher, Ferret. 4 poke my head up, but I won’t go further, Wait a bit!” He followed Dick. Starling was left alone, and he appeared a little uneasy. He looked after the men and his lips moved once. Doubtless he saw the possibility of trouble, but his mind took a new turn. He moved quickly to the door be- hind which the girl was said to be. ** Nell, Nell!” he cried, ‘‘ are you there?” Evidently he heard nothing, ‘Nell, Nell! Speak to me if you are there!” *‘ Mister!” cried Shoestvings, losing all fear of consequences, ‘‘ you won’t find nobody there, an’ ef you don’t hustle this gang will do ye up fer keeps!” The ranchman sprurg back. He looked around wildly. ** What’s that?” he exclaimed. ** You are in a trap, mister!” ** Who speaks?” “Flip, Flip, hev I found you?” he joy- fully cried. He seized upon the person and _ pulled | lustily toward the cabin. As he passed the door, however, he had a surprise; the person was &@ young woman, bound and gagged. He was so much surprised that he dropped | her then and there. ‘‘ Gr-gr-great Scott!” he gasped. A lion-like roar rose behind him. “Nell, Nell, my Nell!” shouted Dave Starling, The burly ranchman pounced upon the girl, and Shoestrings saw that one thing was settled. Another was not,. and he still re- membered Flip. ‘‘He must be here, ef he’s alive. Where is he?” The boy ran into the nearest state-room, but he found it empty. Only one more re- mained unseen, and his heart was heavy as he rushed that way. He tore the door open; / ““The boat rocks a good deal,” remarked Dave, presently. ‘We hev drifted out o’ the dock ter the river,” replied Flip. ‘* An’ what then?” } ‘Then we’ll keep on driftin’ until we go down in fifty feet o’ water. When we do that, we are drownded, sure.” The ship gave a heavy lurch. ‘““She ain’t goin’ ter keep up long,” added Shoestrings, ‘‘She wouldn't do that ef she wasn’t gittin’ ready ter sink.” The doomed party collected around the | cabin table. The light burned fitfully now, but it was enough to show that all felt the danger. They were not in love with the prospect of death, and death seemed sure, ‘‘Oh! that we was on the plains now!’ muttered Dave. ‘‘I’d soon find a way out, but this durned ship—I don’t know nothin” about it.” His gaze turned upon Nell. Sight of her “Me! Skip off from this ship quicker | he dashed in. stung him to fury. than a cat. You hev been lured here ter be A peculiar gurgle sounded directly before ‘‘Drowned!” he shouted, in a voice like a done up. Skip!” him. He looked and saw Flip in the same | tempest. ‘‘ Never! My gal ain’t goin’’ter Bang! | helpless condition that had marked Nell’s | lose her life so. Drowned! Why, I'll git There was a clatter above, und dust was ~ Swept down to the cabin, Dave rushed for- ward with long steps. — ‘« They hev shut up the stairs!” he cried. “T can’t get on deck!” He dashed up the steps, and Shoestrings heard him hammer on the obstacle as he eached the highest possible point, “ By jing! we are in fer it!” exclaimed The ranchman came bounding back. “Who spoke?” he demanded, excitedly. “Where be you?” “This way, this way!” answered Shoe- strings, hurriedly. Starling rushed into the state-room. th he and the boy had grown more excited, and they spoke in concert. With a perfect medley of sound was united action on the ranehman’s part, and he dragged Shoestrings out into the cabin. ‘Quick, quick!” urged the latter. ‘Get off my ropes!” captivity. ‘“* Whoop!” cried the rescuer. Flip gurgled again, and his friend moved to advantage. His hands were busy, and he soon had a part of the bonds off. Flip gave his help, and the rest was soon removed. The older boy leaped to his feet. “Jiminy crickets!” he shouted, ‘‘ this is tke p‘izenest Fourth o’ July I ever see! at his heels. Dave Starling was still em- bracing his daughter. Flip danced up and down in his excitement. ‘* Where be the heathen?” he demanded. ‘Show them ter me! Let me git at them! Shoestrings, what has become o’ the drasted gang?” But Shoestrings stood in silence, his head bent forward in an attitude of’ profound lis- tening. Something important appeared to have come to his notice. Then he abruptly lifted his head. ‘‘They are goin’ ter kidnap us!” he ex- claimed. ‘* They are takin’ us off ter sea!” out o’ this ark ef I tear my way out with my teeth. Ho! to escape!” CHAPTER XY. THE RANCHMAN’'S AX. DAVE STARLING had turned into a sort of human tiger. Unaccustomed to water life, he had been dulled by the situation, but as é Shoestrings. ‘‘ They’ve shut us in, an’ now | Where are we at?” he thought more fully of his daughter, he ang hag Is complete. We won’t cut ice He hastened to the cabin with Shoestrings | changed wonderfully. His eyes gleamed ore. remarkably and his big frame seemed to grow larger. He swung his long arms in mid-air, ‘** Give me somethin’ ter work with!” he cried, ‘* an’ I’ll cut my way through the very heart of this blamed old ark!” ‘* Look fer an ax,” suggested Shoestrings. ‘They wouldn’t leave any—” ** Look, look!” thundered Tien All ran about, but for a time it seemed as if Flip’s prophecy was well founded—there was not a thing visible with which an attack on the barrier could be made, it seemed. 13 el, : c " Then a cry rose from Shoestrings. @i.° Jut came a knife, and the bonds were “ W'ot’s that?” ‘« An ax, an ax!” promptly severed. Shoestrings leaped to his ‘t The ship, is in motion!” He came hurrying from a remote corner feet. ; There was a dull lurch as he ended, and | with the tool in his hand. Bg eS arene it?” cried the rescuer. | Flip lifted his head with a sudden change of ‘Tt was under a pile 0’ boards—” “4 5 - ster, we are both in the worst of | countenance. Despite his questions he knew ** Give it here!” t hxes,” responded the boy. ‘‘ Didn't , you | what tke situation was as well as anybody Big Dave snatched the ax and ran to one of" ys know them men? They’ were part o° the | there, and he now grasped more than the | the cabins. He knew a window was there fa that shas been makin’ all this trouble | others knew, back of the boards recently nailed up, and be er you, an’ that stole your Nell—” * They’ve scuttled the ship!” he cried. knew there was some hope of forcing a way ‘f Nell, Nell! Vv here is she?” cried Dave. ** What?” through the obstacle. . I don't know, “T heard them down below, and I thought | He swung the ax and the blade was buricd 4 Ain’t she on board this vessel?” then I heerd the water gurgle in the hold. | in the wood. Up went the tool again, but a ek don’t think She is; I ain’t seen her. Say, this was all planned in advance—they | Dave missed his aim as a heavy lurch of the ivy | \. Fact sais SOM WE been lured here by yer | filled har up as much as she could stand an’ | ship nearly took him off his feet. “ark enemies, an’ they mean) ter— [don’t know | then plugged it with oakum until they got ‘** We're sinkin’!” exclaimed Shoestrings. x } what they intend terdo. They are jest bad | us. Now, the plugs hev been took out, en’| It did seem that the vessel had st up aa / | ~ enough ter do ye up, Git out on the run ef | we are ter go down with the ship!” as long as it could, but it gradually recover- a you can. | Come! vad ‘« We are floatin’ out o’ the dock.” eda little and rolled on without the dreaded. ae . Shoestrings rushed up the stairs and bang- ** Yes, so as to sink in the river.” descent to the watery depths. i a ed against the obdurate surface that closed | ‘‘That means death ter us,” . Starling lost no time, and his ax {began to- “a _ the companionway. ane effort showed him ** Sure! ‘ - | ply again. Ile wasthe one hope of the{im- = | - |, how useless such an effort was, 4 Silence fell momentarily on the little party. | periled party, and he was doing his pars; De eee ts What do they intend ter do? repeated | Dave Starling and his daughter were not | well. he ax never wavered, and Dave was Starling. : sailors, but if they did not understand as |.like a giant as he wielded it. His ~uscles. A a Y ‘* Mister, I don’t know. It may be ter im- | much as the river-bred boys, they did realize | stood out like ropes, and bis face was terrible a “ea us, ae fy worse. Oh! I wish | what it would mean to sink ‘in the East | in » intensity. So might a barbarian have. eae Flip an’ me hadn’t— River. | looked in olden days, ee |. The new turn of his thoughts brought his | «* What kin we do?” he demanded. Crash! : ae “companion back to mind, 5 e turned and} The boys were not quick to reply, and| The ax went through the boards an the a hurried to the cabin again. — “iP te the dis- | Dave added: t in | glass wasshivered beyond. j Mal statements of his enemies, there was no ‘* Ain't there winders ter the boat? ‘* Whoop!” yelled Flip.‘ We will git in- Proof that Flip had been slain, and he want. Flip rushed into one of the state-rooms. | ter it, after all. Go it, Nebraska! Make the ed the clear head of his old associate. Jt He soon emerged. chips fly!” “Was plain that if Flip was alive he must be | « Nailed up!” was his comment. ‘ A few more will fetch it!” added Shoe- — id one of the state-rooms, aud Shoestrings| ‘The search once started he and Shoestrings strings, encouragingly. _ took measures to learn if this was so. He| made diligent search, but the only resu Not a word spoke Dave, but ‘Temembered the mysterious sighs and move- | wag that the fact was ork pe that they | with which he drove the ax was wecdetel: Mate near him, and looked there first, _| Were securely imprisoned. Every avenue | Blow after blow herained, and thenacheer , The opening of the door showed a human | known to them was made fast, and they were | sounded from the boys as a greut hole ap- — n.. i ode J unable to stir from the place assigned to them. } peared, SR acs tS ee tad its yg Oe fe { t Speer 8 et a. tis ry ; > Leta eR p= : : mee ; A, Oe) Sys alee P t me ” / qe -* ¥ WAS oR, ) fi P iia 7 Ws oot a4 oy ty) eo Ao ee Ee | AS a \ a) lal . A baad : i ay i Ay w i i ies eH 4 = — | r ¥ \— = 5 4 -ee Ye
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ua * Flip Flasher, Ferret. Starling dropped the ax, seized at the re- maining parts of the boards with his bare hands and tore at them wolfishly. ** Whoop!” Flip yelled again as the last portions of the boards were torn away. The opening was ready for them, but the ship was pitch- ing dangerously, and it was plain she could net long stand, They could see, too, that they were well out in the river, and it would be sure death to sink with the vessel there. ‘* Kin you swim, mister?” asked Flip, 4 Yes. ” **So can I,” added Nell. ‘* Hooray!” exclaimed Flip. ‘ That makes things kinder favorable. I s’pose we are almost sure ter be drowned, but it gives us one chance in a dozen, anyhow.” ‘‘The ship totters dangerously,” remind- ed Starling. ‘‘Boys, can you give any plans?” ‘‘ Nothin’ but ter drop inter the drink an’ then drop out again.” ‘An’ we want ter do it mighty quick!” deelared Shoestrings. ‘‘ See how she pitches! Oh! will you hustle!—we are goin’ down, sure!” ‘*Out o* the winder!’ added Flip, ex- citedly. ‘‘T will go first so as ter receive my gal,” pursued Dave, He tried it, and though he found the aperture too small for comfort, succeeded in wriggling through, Then he clung skill- fully on the outside and assisted Nell, who showed true Western pluck and followed quickly and skillfully. As soon as Starling graspedther he released his hold and the way was open for the boys ‘* Go, Shoestrings,” directed Flip. ‘No, I'll go last—” ** Go, you rascal!” Flip did not intend to leave a younger companion to take the final risks, and he pushed Shoestrings forward until the latter had to hustle or be literally dropped in the drink. é “‘Crickey! I’ve got jest three-quarters of a second ter foller!’” This decision was brought forth by the tottering of the craft, and the alert adven- turer did not follow the lead of his opinions. He wormed quickly into the space and moved his head into the outer world, Just then the vessel righted itself for a moment, and he paused to look around, They had floated well away from the New York shore, and were plunging about in deep water. The night was dark and no other craft, big or little, was within the range of Flip’s vision. They were in the part of the river where, to those situated, the stream looked not unlike a wide ocean. “Hurry up, Flip!” urged Shoestrings. “*You'll go down with her!” As if to prove the prediction the ship made a lurch and dipped her bows to such an extent that Flip was nearly submerged. He needed nothing more in the way of a re- minder—he released his hold and took to the river. _His predecessors had gathered their wits and were keeping up systematically, Star- ling, holding his daughter, but not incum- bered by her, for she was as good aswim- mer as himself, cried out: **Which way?” ‘‘ Lead off, Shoestrings!” directed Flip, The younger boy pointed his nose toward the New York line of piers and began to swim stoutly. Dave followed, but. Flip lingered to look at the vessel. He believed her minutes were numbered, and. he jwanted | to see the end, _ It came quickly. then she suddenly dipped her bows: and went -. down witha gurgle and.a displacemeyt of, the water which made the river boil, even where the observer was. Dye ea hatiprres ** Gone!” murmured Flip, | mean She appeared to havea - convulsion, and trembled from end,.to-end: Tt was true. The wreck had taken its las plunge and disappeared under the surface. t! One would have said there was nothing about the building to invite anybody’s in- ‘‘ Crickey! ef we hadn’t got outas we did | terest; but this was not the case with the we should hev been drowndin’ jest about now!” It was not a pleasant thought, and Flip willingly turned and followed his friends. tough as the water was it did not prove any impediment to such skillful swimmers, and all finally landed on one of the piers, They had seen the prudence of going ashore well away from where their foes had left them, though it was safe to infer that none of the latter had lingered around the place after once shutting them in. Dave Starling, once more turned from a lion into a father, was exulting over the rescue of his daughter, but the dripping boys had something else to think of. «Say, that gang is too meashy mean ter live!” declared Shoestrings, stirred out of his usual meckness, ‘“They’re too mean ter die,” amended Flip. ‘‘W’ot they need is a few years in Sing Sing ter cool their heels, an’ they will jest about gitit, or ’m no peach. From this time on we are onter their trail like shootin’ stars.” “T thought you was gone up when I missed you in the cabin.” ‘‘Aw! the big stuffs pounced on me, shut off my speech an’ tied me up an’ chucked me inter a cabin with a bandage on my mouth. Yell? Why I couldn’t even sing Yankee Doodle.” The ranchman approached. ‘* Boys,” he spcke, *‘you hev done us a pile o’ good ter-night, an’ I hope ter reward e fer it—” ‘‘Hold hard, Nebraska,” interrupted Flip. ‘‘Let us down this gang, an’ then we will hev our little jubilee. How did they hap- pen ter nab you an’ yer daughter, individ- ually an’ collective?” ‘They first seized her as she was going about the city, homeless an’ friendless, an’ then lured me here too. Of course it would hev been rash ter bring us tergetber ef it hadn’t been for their plan; but they thought that plan was goin’ ter drown’d us both. But how did you get’into it?” Flip’s face expanded in a broad smile. ‘Allon account of our habit o’ lookin’ inter things.” “ How is that?” ‘‘We are investigators an’ peramberlaters, ye see, In plain words, we got inter this scrape by comin’ close ter meddlin’ with! things we knowed not of, as the poick says,” ‘“We are all safe, but what be we ter do now?” ‘*Qit under the umbrella before Black Beard sets his heavy hoof upon ye again.” ‘We don’t care ter flee—” ‘You'd better not fight.” ‘‘T mean, there are things we want ter do before we leave the city—’ “‘T should say so!” cried Flip, with energy. ‘‘There is a good bit you want ter do, an’ ditto with me ‘an’ Shoestrings. Hey, Shoe- strings? Crickey! we’ll all git a move on an’ make them crooks take ter their holes. Come on an’ do it!” CHAPTER XVI, THE STOLEN BOX. Ir was nine o'clock of the next evening. Down on one of the cross streets of the East Side region, Flip and Shoestrings stood to- gether. Their manner was not as open and frank as was their custom, and they seemed to have something on their minds. This was correct, and the load was a heavy one, being no less than a ponderous building not faraway?!) 95 ox _ A-sign over the. door of this structure told benoit factory; but it had closed. with he end:of.day,.and there was now no more than: long, dark line of, brick and glass. boys. They watched the place closely, and they did more—they watched the street on both sides of them. ‘TY don’t see nothin’,” finally grumbled Shoestrings, breaking a long silence. ‘‘ Now, don’t get gay, my frien’,”’ directed Flip. ‘ You don’t expect them ter come an’ jump right inter our arms like a fish, do re?” ‘Ef I do, they don’t come.” ‘‘Certain they don’t, young feller. Ef, they did yeu wouid be so lucky that theater fellers would want ter wear ye on their watch-chains fer a charm.” ‘‘But they may not come at all.” “So we may miss our breakfast; but we hope ter git it. Keep yer nose up. Shoe- strings—don’t git in thedoldrums. Ef you should git all the luck you wouldn’t—” ‘*Hey, Flip, git under cover!” Shoestrings seized his ally and pulled him back, and then both sunk into a deep door- way. “Wot did you spot?” whispered Flip. ‘The men comin’ down the street, an’ I believe one o’ them is the man with the black beard.” ‘ ‘Oh! Addison, my gay laddie, be you really on the pave?” murmured the older boy. ‘I'll take a peek. Hold onter my necktie, Shoestrings, so | won't git giddy,” Flip took the secret view, and then drew back. é ‘‘That’s Oates,” he declared, ‘‘an’ he has Dick with him, Et is workin’ jest as we planned.” The two men he had named tramped down the street. Near one of the smaller doors of the factory they paused for a moment, and then "soe knocked on the panel in a pe- culiat way. The door opened; they entered; the door elosed. “ Crickey! ain't that great?” cried Shoe- strings. ‘‘The circus begins. Stay here, my friend, until I slide down the street an’ notify the cops that the game is inter it.” ‘* Hustle!” ‘« See me sail!” Flip dashed away, and Shoestrings waited impatiently, Flip was as expeditious as could be expected, and he was soon back again. ** All serene,” he remarked. the next step. Come along!” ‘*Was the police kinder civil?’”’ “They was simply glorious. Why shouldn’t they be? It was you an’ me who got onter their jinks, an’ we did it by brain- thinks. When we found that Dick had a brother who was night-watchman here, an’ nobody could locate our game, we argued that mebbe Dick had found an asylum fer them here, didn’t we? An’ don’t et look like it?” sé Yes,” ‘Then, how kin the police fail ter do us justice? The police is bully boys, now I tell you! Here’s the key the owner 0’ the factory give me—in we go!” Flip unlocked another side-door, and they passed through. There was nothing ‘but darkness beyond, but they had been over **Now fer the ground during the day and they knew — the way., They crept up-stairs in the inky gloom. ‘* Hey, Shoestrings! there’s our game ‘* Addison Oates an’ Dick’s brother. Where’s Dick?” - “T guess" Flip stopped short as a door opposite to id them swung open, Tevealing a flight of stairs From this place came Moon Mar-. beyond. tin, Tim Flynn and Violet.” ; \ Flip pinched his ally'sevérely.) “ Hold onter my necktie ot I'll jump,” he cautioned. ‘All goes glorious, my boy. 4 ay
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Flip Flasher, Ferret. They hey been hid in the loft, jest as we figgered out.” ** Lay low,” “* So we will, an’ we'll keep it up until the police come,” The spies settled down to watch and listen, Addison Oates looked around on the party. ‘‘We are all here,” he remarked, ‘‘and when I say that, 1 may add that we are lucky not to be at Police Headquarters. We have run dangerously close to the frying-pan of late, but if all goes weil we will get out of New York to night and be seen here no moré until this squall has blown over.” . “There is nobody ter stop us,” replied Moon Martin. ‘* Like the South Sea cannibal we hev eaten all of our enemies,” ‘* Ha, ha!” laughed Oates. ‘1 sce that the evening papers say that the old ship that lay in a certain dock broke loose last night, float- ed away and is supposed to have sunk in the river or the harbor.” ‘* That's true,” added Moon. ‘She had help to break loose,” ** So she did.” “* And all of our foes went down with her,” pursued Oates, calmly. ‘‘ Dave Starling and his daughter will bother us no sore.” ‘* Nor the two kids,” ° ‘“My office boy turned out badly,” ad- mitted Addison, shaking*his head. ‘‘ His death saved him from worse, though, I think it was clever of me to engage him as a victim to my land investment scheme. Ha, ha!—he was very much pleased when I took him as office boy—and he an uncouth East- Sider—but he little knew it was all to mix him up in the land scheme, and then get the blame for my misdeeds onto him, “Well, fiv’s gone home, and the land scheme will lie over until this Starling affair is sure to have blown over,” _“ We need not worry about them now. Sull, we hey ourselves to look out fer, an’ we want ter git out o’ New York carly. Shall we proceed ter biz?” “At once,” answered Oates. down the box!” Dick went up the stairs to the loft, but shortly returued with a box under his ‘aria Flip nudged Shoestrings, ‘* Say, kid,” he whispered, inter this game.” The box was set down, and then Oates took a hammer and chisel which had been brought forward. by his allies, ** This is an eventful moment for me,” he declared. ‘‘ In a few minutes [ shall have in my hands things which will, indirectiy, net me a cool hundred thousand dollars, You are not in the play, but you need not fear being left. I will pay you all for your devotion to my interests, i man.” * i + Ef we did swipe the box,” added. Moon, with a grin, ‘‘Ha, hal’ Just go, It was a neat job ‘when we stole this from old Peter Mainford. On the whole, I am glad our plan to burn his house down did not succeed, for he might have perished in it. We got away with the box neatly, and now we will reap tie re- ward. It has annoyed me to defer Opening it so long, but I thought it best not to come here too’svon, and the treasures would keep,” ‘* Tt was safe here all the while.” , Te ee. Nel! § “TI feel a bit sorry for Nel! Starling,” mitted Violet, © « How she clung to the box as long as shecould, It was dire necessit that made her leaye it with old Mainfor and then it was rank luck when she failed ¢¢ peor ptt ri she left it.” i he shou wo the and number,” have taken do Pia i I me been yery conspicuous in this, oe i Le aa sorry. Now. your bidding, Addison “I went to the Nebraska ranch and lureq her ay d now she is—” “é Never mir |. er away, an re h ri ad] “Mad; never, mind!” hurriedly ‘** Bring “we're right am an honest ad i O R tool the least interested persons ‘were Flip b. <= : exclaimed Oates. ‘‘ Let us do this work. | rubbish it is, but there are wires and jim- Now to force the box.” Oates bent down and inserted the edge of | the chisel under the cover. Then he began to tap upon the implement with the hammer, His companions gathered around him, and and Shoestrings. They believed that an un- pleasant surprise awaited the thieves. Addison struck several blows and then suddenly rose, “*}] am nervous; my hand trembles too much for this job,” he declared. ‘‘ Moon, do it forme. I seem to see the fortune I hope to reap for this,” «You Violet. ‘*T shall, I hope, soon be reconciled to my relatives, They cast me off because I was a black sheep, but they were no better. A blight on their false pride! It was that which made them cast off Nell Starling’s mother. She should have been rich, but just because she married Dave Starling—a common man—they cast her off.” ** But she took this box.” “Yes, they could not prevent that. It was hers, and so were the things init. But they have always coveted the things therein, not because of their money value, for that was not over a thousand dollars; but because they were heirlooms, and dear to their proud hearts. They were— Ha! have you got it, Moon?” ‘* Look for yourself!” Moon threw back the cover. will soon be rich,” murmured CHAPTER XVII. THE RESULTS OF THE ROBBERY. Appison OATES seemed to lose command of himself. ‘*Hurrah!” he almost shouted; ‘‘ the wait- ing is over. Now for the booty!” e sprung forward, seized upon a cloth which covered the contents of the box and cast it aside. His hand was raised as if to grasp something more, but the hand was ar- rested in mid-air. He became like a statue, his dilated eyes directed toward the interior of the box. Again Flip nudged Shoestrings. Oates’s hand fell and his face grew pallid. “‘What?” he gasped, ** Bh?’ returned Moon, ** This—this—this—” Addison stammered huskily ‘and then ceased to speak. “Be them the things you wanted?” in- quired Moon, doubtfully.. \ Oates leaped to his feet. uln, ruin!” he panted. deceived; I have been-~” Fury came to his face, and he sprung for- ward and laid hold of Dick. You have meddled with this box!” he shouted. ‘You have robbed me! There has been foul play here!” ‘You saw for yourself that the box had not been tampered with,” reminded Violet practically. \ Oates relaxed his hold and fell back. “True, true!” he admitted, brokenly; “the mischief was not done here, It was done before the box left Mainford’s— Ha! Lhave it! We have made an atvful mistake; we took the wrong box from Mainford’s house!’ ‘ ; A broad smile overspread Flip’s face, but the conspirators did not feel in a like mood. Oates was simply overwhelmed, and his dis- **T have been may was reflected on the countenance of his | tools, There was a considerable pause, and then Moon Martin found his voice. ‘* How could that be?” he demanded. “T don’t. know. I only know we have made a mistake. that % Look at the contents of box! The Evil One only knows what | cracks curled and bent tn every which-way It looks as if a madman had been let loose.” ‘Tt isn’t old lace an’ silverware an’ silks an’ medals, sech as you looked fer—” ‘‘T should say not.” ‘‘Durned ef I know w’ot et is.” * IT remember now that we were told Main- ford was an inventor. That makes it plain; this wild. looking thing is a model of some- thing, though nobody outside of an insane asylum could tell what, Perdition take the luck! Iam ruined!” - Oates began to pace back citedly. ‘*Hard luck!” agreed Moon. ‘‘Tt ruins me,” persisted Addison. ‘} depended upon restoring this trash to my rel- atives who had cast me off as a black sheep. The last chance is gone. I shall have to give up getting back into good, society and riches, and remain a black sheep and a shy- ster. It won’t be in New York. We have stirred upa pretty hornets’ nest here, and though I would remain and fight it out if there was money init, I can’t do it when there is nothing. I will skip the city.” Oates was badly unnerved, but he had the sympathy of his companions, All but Dick kept their gaze commiseratingly on_ his face. Dick used his eyes more practically. Perhaps the watching boys by the door were rash about exposing themselves; be that as it may, they were soon shown that Dick had not been blind. One moment there was not a visible sign of danger to them; the next, Dick made a wild rush and was beside them before they could retreat successfully. When they did go they unfortunately bumped togethes, and the collision sent Flip to the floor, while Shoestrings went tumbling down the stairs with many a thump and rattle. Flip was up quickly, but Dick’s hand was on him, “‘ A spy!” shouted the man. Then his allies saw him returning with somebody in his bold who writhed and twist- ed like a snake. Flip was making a game struggle, but he lacked the strengh to beat off his captor. He was hauled close to his enemies and then flung forward into the shoe & / ‘“« A spy!” repeated Dick, They looked hard, and then Addison Oates grew bewildered. “What!” he cried, ** So it is.” ‘* B-b-but he is dead!” gasped Moon. ‘* Beaten in this game as well as the other!” exclaimed Oates, who had no superstition. ‘‘How he escaped from the vessel | don’t know, but here he is.” ‘Ves, an’ he kin ruin us,” Pages ky Dick. ‘‘ He knows that we scuttled the ship.” Moon Martin rallied. ‘‘Then let him die!” he cried. ‘It is his life or ours. Be we goin’ ter let him do us up? No!” ‘‘How can we prevent it?” demanded Oates. “Silence him!” hissed Moon. ‘‘The boy must die, I say!” ‘*Now, you jest hold yer cable-car,” re- quested Flip, with remarkable nerve. ‘I ain’t the measly Harlem goat you take me ter be. I’m employed by your house, an’ I wouldn’t go back on ye fer a cent—no, I wouldn’t, by gum!” ** You protest in vain, your way is right.” ~ ABE him up to the loft and silence m,”’ ‘* Away with him!” crdered Oates. Moon and Dick seized upon the boy, and then ensued a lively time. Flip was really frightened, at last, and he fought like.a young tiger. His hands and legs were busy, and many a hard thump he gave his foes, Dut it was clear that he could not hold his. own. Black Tim finally came intothe game, and forth ex- ** My office-boy!” ” Moon, 1 reckon
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‘ ; eX6 A and, with the addition of his strength, the luckless captive was secured. They started up the stairs with him. ““Oh! Ad Oates, won't I make it merry fer you ef you do me up!” cried Flip. **T']l turn inter a ghost an’ do the skirt-dance on yer stomach every blessed night.” “Up with him!” added the arch-plotter, ** Hold!” It was a new voice, sharp and command- ing, and as the schemers turned toward the door which led to the lower stairs they had a disagreeable surprise. .A line of policemen was marching into the room, and in numbers which settled all question of resistance. In fact, it seemed as if the earth was vomiting blue-coats. ‘** Lost!” muttered Oates. Moon and Dick were so dumfounded that they forgot to hold fast, and Flip wriggled skillfully out of their grasp. ‘* This way, captain!” he cried, ‘‘ I've got them all rounded up fer you. It was all set- tled before you come, only I didn’t put irons onter them, They forgot ter surrender .ter me officially, but they are yer meat jest the same. Gobble them, boss!” ‘You are all prisoners!” declared the police leader. ‘Yes, I ketched them,” agreed Flip, modestly, Oates suddenly moved forward and held out his hands. ‘*Here are my wrists,” he added. ‘I have run my race, and now you can do with me as you please. It isa bitter pill, but I have one consolation—I will make my real name known, and I shall have the pleasure of disgracing the rich relatives who cast me off as a black sheep!” ‘Tron his wrists, men,’ officer. ** All I ask,” added Addison, coolly, ‘‘ is that you will let me stop on the way and buy a few cigars,” **Zounds! he’s a cool one,” muttered one of the policemen. ‘©Yes, he’s sorter cool,” admitted Flip, **but he didn’t git the bulge onter me! I pulled the whole gang, in spite o’ their nerve. Hullo, is that you, Shoestrings? Et ddnt kill you, I see, ter fall down the stair,. But, why should et? Gents, here is a kid that is jesta peach at this biz He helped me all the way through, an’ now him an’ | hev the honor ter hand over our prison- ers. The race is run, Waltz off the thugs an’ toughs! Then I'll take you all out ter hey supper with me. It’s my treat, an’ I am the lad that kin entertain as wal as any Fifth Avenoo gent. Ring down the curtain!” ’ commanded the The victory was complete, and the next acts in the drama followed in due time. Oates, Moon Martin, Dick, Tim’and Violet were put on trial, convicted and sent to prison. They went with the knowledge that they had been worsted by a couple of boys, and it was a bitter dose to swallow. Dave Starling’ and Nell went back to Nebraska, happy and triumphant, and giving due credit to Flip and Shoestrings. Peter Mainford’s beloved patent was re- stored to him intact and undamaged, and he expects soon to light the streets of New York as they never have been lighted before. Flip has gone into partnership with Shoe. strings as a peddler of laces, but they are planning for bigger fields of business, and it may well be believed they will succeed where they try. THE END, GLORIOUS DEADWOOD DICK, Ind Plays a Raking Hand! The Daring Detective’s Double-up on the High ie Horse of Roaring River Camp—the Mine-owner with a mighty bad record, is the key-note cf this stunner story; and astrange « -unct of A Shadow Coffin In the Air! a mystery, incomprehensible even to Dick, adds a | 5 weird feature to the remarkable narrative and drama. No recent issue of any LisrARY romance can com- pare, in novel conditions, startling situations, and variety of strong characters invoived with D-adwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double-Decker ; |: OR, Center-Fire, the Self-Cocker, BY EDWARD L. ——— Don’t miss the great literary treat. Line right up to the bar of your News-agent and call for it— WHEELER. Next Week ! Number 916! Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela, Mek, Ir; or, The Crimson Crescent Sign. Dick, Jr.’s, Deflance. Dick. Jrva Full Hand, é Dick, Jr.'s, Big Round-Up. Dick, Jr’s, Racket at, Cidim 10, Dick, Jr.’s, Corral; or,‘Bozanan Bill. Dick, Jr.'s, Dog Detective’. Dick. Jr., in Deady ood. , Dick, Ar. , Compact... |. phen’ by BIwermonter ~ vk, dr.’« ner, eile Diek,,Jr.’s, Deliverance,’ picks 5 See PA aaa ck, Jr.'s, nree, , ~ Dick, Jr's, Danger. Ducks, Dick, Jr.%4, Death Hunt. Dick, drs, tn qn, Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidocg Dick, Jr., On Mie Mettle. Dick, dr., In Gotham, Dick, Jr.¢ In Boston, Dick, Jr., in Philadeiphia, mick a in Obieage. ck, Jr. oat. Dick. or.. In Denver, Dick, Jr.ts, Decree. Dick Jr., in Beelzebub’« Basin, Dick, Jr., at Coney Iatand. Dick, Jr.’*, Leadville Lay. Dick, dr., in Detrolt. Dick, Jr., in Cinctnuatl. Dick, Jr., In Nevada, Dick, dr., in No Man’s Land. Bee ges iitgeatr. on™ ok r.. In Buffalo. Dick, Jro«, Chase Acroxa the Continent ote oad weed piers $34 Apone the Cmunglers, end woor ek, Jr.’#, [raurance Case. 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Back In the Mines, 672 Deadwood Dick, dr. ty Purangoy or, “ Gathered In.” P44 | ey Seo wales orca! ae? ery; or, Found a Fortune, 4 eadwood ak, r."«, Da ec. 690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ Pollars. 695 Deadwood Dick. Jr., at Danger Divide, 700 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Drop TO4 Deadwood Dick, Jr4 at Jack-Pot. TO Deadwood Dick dre, in San Franclaco, 716 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Still Hunt. 722 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s. Pominoes, 728 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Disguise, 784 Deadwood Dick. Jr.’s, Double Deal 740 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deathwatch, T47 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Donblet. 752 Deadwood Dick, dr.’s, Deathblow. T58 Deadwood Dick, dr.’*, Pesperate Strait, 764 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Lone Hand, TT” Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s Defeat. 776 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Resurrection. 782 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Park Days. 7ST Deadwood Dick Jr.» Defed. 92 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Double Device. 97 Deadwood Dick, Jr’.«, Desperate, Venture, 802 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’*, Diamond Dice, pes Bentvecd Wise’ gr pune cand woo OKs rem, end-ous 816 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Rival. 822 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’*, Boom. S28 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Scoop. 484 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Proxy. 840 Deadwood Rick, Jr’, Clutch. 845 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’*, High Horse. 852 Deadwood Dick Jr., at Devils Gulch, RBS Deadwood Pick, Jr.'s, Neath-Hole Hustle} R68 Deadweed Dick, J Mag oe . Mexico. 448 Deadwood 4485 Dendwood 458 Deud wood 459 Deadwood 465 Deadwood 471 Deadwood 476 Deadwood 451 Deadwood 49L Deadwood 496 Deadwood 600 Deadwood 608 Deadwood 515 Deadwood 522 Deadwood 529 Veadwooa bY Jenadwood 522 Peadwood M4 bs Deadwood 549 Deadwovoa 554 Deadwood 54641 Deadwooa 547 Deadwood 572 Deadwood 578 Deadwood 5584 Deadwooe 60 Deadwood 595 Deadwood 600 Deadwood 606 Deadwood 612 Deadwood 618 Deadwood 624 Deadwood 680 Deadwood 686 Dendwood 642 Deadwood 648 Deadwood BY COLONEL PRENTISS s New York Nat's Double. 2 New York Nat's In Colorad } New York Nat in Gold Nug; New York Nat’s Deadly De New York Nat’s Crook-Cha: New York Nat’« Trump Ca: New York Nathand the Gra > New York Nat’ Masked M New York Nat, the Gamin Dete: Dick Doom’s Kidnapper Knu« Dick Doow’s Ten Strike. Dick Deoom’s Flush Hand. Dick Doom’s Death-Gripr or, Dick Doom’s Deatinys or, The Dick Doom) or, the Sharpe and § Dick Doom in Bostonz or, A \ Dick Doom tn Chicago. Dick Doom in the Wild Weer Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep; « Dick Doom’s Death Clue, Dick Doom’s Diamond Deal, Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot. Dick Doom’s Shadow Hunt. Dick Doom’s Big Heul, Dashing Charlie: or, The Kentur Dashing Charlic’« Destiny; « Dashing Charlie’s, Pawnee } Dashing Charlife, the Rescuer, Buck Taylor, King of the Cowbo Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s © Buck Taylor's Boyasy or, The fu Pawnee Bill, the Prairie Shadows Pawnee Bill; or, Carl, the Mad € Pawnee Bill’« Pledge; or, The Pawnee Bills or, Daring Dick. Redfern’« Curtous Caset o,1 Kedtern_ at Devil's Hench 0} Redfern’s High Mand; or, Bh Redfern’s Last. Trall; or, The Red Ralph’s Ruse; or, The Buc Red Ralph’s Bold Game; or Red Ralph, the Shadow er, or, Th Butterfly Billy’s Disguise. Butterfly Billy, the Pony kxpre 6 Butterfly Billy’s Man Hunt. Butterfly Billy’s Bonanza. Kent Kingdon; or, The Owls oft Kent Kingdon’s Shadower; Kent Kingdon’s Duel; 7, Th Kent Kingdon’s Boom j er, Tl 545 Lafitte Run Dow ny or, The Bu 550 Lafitte’s ey? or. The Avengii 555 Lafitte’s Confession: or, The C And Fifty Other BY J0 PIERO!) 897 Bob o’ the Bowery : or, The Pri 415 The Vagabond Detective; or,! 452 Hotapur Bob, the Street-Boy Dete 460 The Satyers Shadow; or Lu 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horse-King 494 Surly Sim, the. Young Ferryman Dk 504 Five Points Phil, the Payement 609 Jack Ja ra, the Butcher Boy Di 616 Tartar fs or, Hive Points Phil's 526 North River Nat, the Pier D 588 Wrestling Rex, the Pride of 641 Jeff Flicker, the Stable Boy 5651 Nick Nettle, the Bos Shado 4 559 Harlem Jack, the Office Boy Dete 669 Brooklyn Ben, the On Hit-Own- 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter BSS Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea ¥ GOR Wide-Awake Bertsthg Sreet-St 614 Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s 628 Buck Bumblebee, the Harlem H 689 Sunrise San], the Express-Train F 649 Gamin Bob, the Bowery Badger; or 658 Sky-Rocket Rob, the Life-Saver, 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Nw 694 &pley Jim, the Only One of Hie |! 706 Tom Thistle, the Rond-Hovse Det 717 Mosquito Jack, the Hustler Gami 726 Denni« Duff the Brown Sport’s Kir 744 Dick of the Docka, the Night-W 765 Flipper Flymn, the Street Patro}, T71 Foxy Fred's Odd Pard; or, The neew TRL Cast-Off Cale, the Scapegoat Detective. 824 Kowery Billy, the Bunco Bouncer, 887 The Big Four of the Bowery, 846 Buck, the New York Sharper. 850 The Grand Street Arab. 855 The West Brondway Gawmin, 860 The Boat-Club Mascot; or, Dan Dec 864 The Union Square Baggage Boy. 7S The Street Arab’« Blind. 886 The Five Points Ledging House J: 890 Ace High, the Trump Card Detective. 895 Fitth Avenue Fred, the Valet Detectis 809 Basement Bert, the Bov Cobbler Dete 908 Billy Blue- Blazes, the Dodger of the D 907 Reddy Rusher, Bell-Boy 4-11-44, BY BUFFALO BILL (Ifon. Wm, 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand, 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the 55 Deadly-Eye, the Gehacve Scout, or, The | 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairle R 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The T ‘LATEST AND NEW IS 909 Midshipman Dare, the Pirate C: Sea Rovers of 98. By T. J. Flanagan, 910 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Tip- Tops Bullet-proof sport. "By Edward Le Wheeler 911 Bowery Bob, the East-side Detect the Shady Sharpers. By Harold Payne. 912 Train Boy Trist’s Hot Hustle; Broadway Crook. l'y J. C. Cowdrick. 918 Kit Kelth, t ¢ Revenue Spotter; or, Th Ron. By Ed. L. Wheeler. 914 New York Nat's Three of a Kind; Close Call. By Col. Prentice Ingrahain, 915 Flip Flasher, Ferret, of East Broa the Fire-bugs, Ly Jo Pleree. 916 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Double. Dec Fire, the SelfCocker. By Euward L. Wheek 917 Flash Lightning, the Mountain Mascot; Doom. By Charles Morris. - A New lsaue Every Tuesday. we 4 The Half-Dime Library is for sale by all newsdenlers, Gents por copy, or sent by mail on receipt of alx conts each, iM BEADLE AND ADAME, Publishers, 98 William Strect, New Verh — #