Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 933) (1895 06 11)
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a i len 0 ne eee pos! lit (it Sl Si ill | | Entered as Second Class Matter at the New York, N. Y , Post Office. Copyrighted 1895, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, No. 988 $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, . a Year. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 cents. aw O) = THE BRAVE HEARTS ON THE GALLANT OLD UNITED STATES —~ = ———— hd Hu ————— SICKENED AT THE SIGHT, THE PIRATE’S DOOM HAD BEEN AWFUL.
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Pa The Two Midshipmen. —— The Two THE YOUNG CORSAIR-CHASER’S FIRST CRUISE, A Romance of the Old Frigate, United States, in the Barbary War. BY T. J, FLANAGAN, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ MIDSHIPMAN DARE,” ‘‘ THE CRUISE OF THE OCEAN QUEEN,” ETC., ETC, CHAPTER I, A BOY AND A BRUTE, ON a bitter, snowy night, in the winter of 1800-1801, a man and a boy were making their way through the lower part of the City of New York toward the water front. * I have said making their way, but that is not the proper mode of expressing it, for the man was dragging thé boy along by the arm, stop- ping every now and then to strike him, **Run away, will ye? How d’ye like that ?” ** That” was a brutal kick which the man dealt the boy, while holding him at arm’s- length. **Stop that, you brute!” exclaimed a voice from behind, and the next instant the boy was snatched from the grasp of his astonished companion, 4 The latter uttered an angry oath as he turned on the intermeddler. ‘‘ Curse you! I'll break—” he began, raising his clinched fist, but at the sight of the brass buttons Poel Liege ma the half-open great- coat, sto short, growling: “¢ Can't a man chastise his own son?” ‘‘ Perhaps, It depends whether he does it as @ man or a brute.” ‘* Well, he’s mine, anyhow, young rip!” : ‘**Oh, please, sir, don’t let him take me!” im- Beri the youth. ‘He'll kill me! I know he will! Street-lamps were a lu unthought of at that period, and it was only when the man stepped forward to rescuer got a glimpse of his fave. They were standing near a chandlery shop, and when the man moved forward he came into the light streaming through the shop window, | hye The person in the great-coat started on seeing that face, and, with a sarcastic laugh, asked: ‘* And so you are this lad’s father?” ** Yes, I am!” sullenly. This doggedly uttered assertion did not a pear to convince the boy’s rescuer, who, wi the same sarcastic laugh, stepped into the light, saying: ‘ Smith, Smith, what a lying scoundrel you are!’ ie man thus addressed started back in alarm. ‘* Darrel!” he exclaimed, in utter amaze, ‘* Darrel Dare, if you please,” __ Smith did not speak. He seemed to stand in fear of Dare, and shrunk back out of the light, while the other stood looking at him for a mo- ‘men* in silent rater ? me, ‘* This unfortunate lad is, of course, your son just as much asI was once your nephew! Isit not so?” . i Smith muttered an inaudible reply, and Dare _c6ntinued:' ry ; . _ “ Be off, you scoundrel! ‘ Be off, before [ run you thro’ as you deserve!” and the young man laid nd on his sword-hilt as he spoke the undress uniform of a naval offi- cer. f pe u Smith slunk away, abashed, but with a vicious look on his sinister face. ‘Come, my lad,” said the officer, taking the bar the band. : “Good heavens! Why, you must be freez- ing!” he exclaimed, as the boy’s shivering hand touched hisown, — Come here, you He led the way into the chandlery shop, where | Tr . he was greeted with a ul; ** Stormy night, captain!” ‘‘ Very stormy indeed, Mr. Brown, Please give this lad a pair of gloves—something good and warm,” Bd to. Captain Dare, notwithstanding the title, was a young man—much younger than he looked. Tall, Ginely—chagniticent y formed and hand- some, the heavy, tawny mustache adorning his } Midshipmen: the boy again that the. | she asked, building a mole to protect his ships!” upper lip helped to give him the appearance of twenty-eight or thirty, while in reality he was barely twenty-one. . The boy was about fifteen years of age, with a frank, open countenance and honest, fearless blue eyes, that won the captain's pity and liking at once. So, when Mr. Brown, having fitted on the gloves, looked significantly at the lad’s tattered shoes and clothes, and said: ** Anything else, captain?” He nodded, saying: : ‘* Yes, you may as well make it an entire out- fit, seeing how it’s needed.” Mr. Brown, who could supply anything from a needle to an anchor, soon had the lad neatly and warmly clad ‘‘ from top to toe,” as he ex- pressed it. ‘* Worse off than I was, when I first reached here,” mused the captain, pityingly, as he watched the boy being dressed, ** What shall I do with him?’ was his next thought, and calling Mr. Erown aside, he ar- ranged for the boy’s care for the night, ‘*T will see what can be done for him when I get home,” decided the young officer. ‘‘ Mean- time, give him a hot supper and take good care of him until I call to-morrow.” ‘* Now, my lad,” he continued, turning to the boy, ‘* Mr. Brown will take good care of you for the present. What is your name?” ‘‘James Lawrence, sir, but I was generally called Laurie, to distinguish me from my cousin of the same name. He lived with us for a while, and the name stuck to me,” Captain Dare was interested, but he was also in a hurry to get home. ‘* Well, Laurie, be a good boy, and we'll see what can be done for you. [’mina great hurry now, or I should stay and hear your story.” ‘I don’t know how to thank you, sir—” be- om the boy, as the captain bade him good- night. iI And therefore, being a sensible lad, you will a try,” laughed the captain, adding earnestly : * [t’s deeds, deeds, not words, that the world respects!” and with a hasty ‘‘ good-night” to Mr, Brown, he left the store, The streets were deserted, even in the lower rt of the city, and Captain Dare had a long, onesome and difficult journey to make before reaching his destination, which was in what was then called the ‘* Out-ward.” At length the captain reached the handsome residence of Captain King, of the kip epg United States Navy, and was war re- oo by all, and lovingly by one— y ng. PO 8 King’s sister—was a beauti- ee of seventeen, and engaged to be married to Ca tain Dare in the following autumn, What detained you?” “Oh, I met an old acquaintance—had quite a little adventure,” replied Dare, and he procesd- ** How late you are! ed to relate the story of his meeting with | mith, . . “i ‘So he’s still in the land of the living?” said Captain King, adding: **T wonder who the boy is?” “T will try to find out to-morrow. * I’m in- ‘| terested in the lad, for bis situation reminds me strongly of my own when I first met—” Captain Dare paused and looked significantly at Emily, causing her to blush, and every one else to smile, ‘1 have heard some interesting news to-day,” he continued, ‘‘ There is an expedition fitting out—or about to—against the Algerian pirates, They’ve been doing oe 3 much as they pleased with every nation since Barbarossa, the famous fae ate, started them in the business in ‘* Yes, they’ve never been thoroughly thrashed yet,” assented Captain King, while the ladies began to look interested and apprehensive. **No; but they will be, this time,” returned Dare, proudly. ‘‘Think of that pirate king— fof, after cise ey a native prince, he had himself proclaimed king—think of him having 80,000 Christian slaves at work for three years, “ Well?’said Captain King, who guessed what was as r ‘* Well, they’ve seized some of our ships, and we're going to teach them a lesson they won’t se ina hurry. I haveasked to be appointed to the United States.” ee Ing alana Emily, reproachfully, and be- a Hold on now, Emily, Let me explain why I did so. You courtesy, so to speak, The fact of my being know I’m only ‘captain’ by ‘as much as owner of The Hawk procured for me the ranz& of captain, but I am really nothing more than a lieutenant, on the Government lists. In this af- fair, | may have an opportunity to really win . the title which I now wrongfully bear.” ‘*Come, come, Darrel! not as ba as that!” interposed his friend, warmly. , ‘‘ You won the rank, and would have got it if you were not al- ready a captain, after t.e last cruise. You are talking sheer nonsense.” ‘* Perhaps, Still, { didn’t get it—I wasn’t in a position to get it,” returned the othe’, quietly, and on the plea that he bad severui |.t.ers to write, he sought the library, Here he was quickly joined by Emily. What he said, and how, has no bearing on this story, but, eventually, Captain Dare suc- ceeded in quelling ber fears as to the dangers to which he would be exposed if appointed an. offi- cer of the expedition. ‘For, you know, I’m not appointed yet,” he said, in conclusion. ‘* And I shall pray that you may not be!” was the prompt rejoinder. CHAPTER II, ON BOARD THE FRIGATE, Next day Captain Dare called at the chand- lery shop, where he found Laurie looking quite Neay. and at home. ‘Now tell me how you came to be with Smith,” said the captain, and the boy told his story, His father, who was captain of a merchant- man, had left port nearly ten years prior to the opening of our story, and had never been heard from again. Mrs, Lawrence had @ little money, but this was soon exha , and, step by step, they drifted downward, until at length, worn out by bee struggle for existence, the good mother ‘*That was only two months ago,” continued Laurie, his tears beginning to flow, ‘‘ and then Mr. Smith said he’d take care of me,” ‘* And how did he do it?” ‘* He wanted me to beg and steal, and because I wouldn’t do it he would beat and starve me untill’d begforhim. “hen he’dask me again to steal—so I ran away from him the first time I gota chance, but he caught me last night.” ‘No mystery about this,” thought the young captain, ‘‘ Nobody paid to have this boy put © out of the way as was my case,” and aloud: : ** Well, you can stay here for the present. As soon as my own affairs are settled, we will see — what can be done for you, my lad.” 9 To himself he said: : “Tf I don’t get the appointment, [ll put him on The Hawk. ‘* Where was your mother buried?” Dare ask- ed as he arose to go, with a vague idea of hav- ing the body removed if it was in the pauper. burial-ground, as was more than likely. **T don’t know, sir!” “Bh? You don’t know?” ‘No, sir. Smith promised to bring me to her grave, but he never did it. ‘*T was working for a grocer in Cedar street, and had to sleep in the store, I was home Sun- days, and whenI last saw mother she wasn’t feeling very ill, but, when I came home the next Sunday morning, Smith met me at the door, and told me she was dead and buried. “Mother didn’t remember my employer’s name, so they couldn’t send for me when she was dying.” Tears stood in the lad’s eyes, and it was with an effort he continued: : “Smith hired a room from mother and that, helped us, and he knew all. about our troubl so when the man I worked for got drunk an discharged me, two days afterward, { was glad aR! with gree eas) | acter eee erely a thieving, beg "4 ans on—he never would work himself,” thought the captain, and aloud: ; ‘* Well, Laurie, if I rum across the scoundrel Pll find out about your mother. Keep indoors ssible, but if he interferes with you, call on the first man} you see, and send for me. ed a boy, and thus tie homeless, persecuted waif Re of yesterda now possessed emplo } Sl oh feuak cura edticteats friend. ee er = BS AE See Oe _f_ * il > +
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| | | weigh anchor, the shrill pipin The Two Midshipmen. 3 Emily King’s prayers, opposed to Captain Dare’s well-known skill as a seaman, and cour- age as an officer, proved unavailing. Captain Nicholson, now in command of the famous frigate, wanted just such a man for his first officer, and, as soon as Captain Dare’s ap- plication was received, the appointment was made. ° The Bey of Algiers had not declared war, and did not do so until June 11, 1801, but he had threatened it, and as his piratical craft then swarmed all over the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic in that vicinity, it was wisely decided to dispatch the United States at once to protect our merchantmen—and forestall the pirates, It was the.middle of March when Dare was notified of his appointment, and instructed to be ready to sail on the first of April. This caused a commotion in the King house- hold, andastorm in the breast of Emily, but remonstrance was useless now, and she finally submitted to the arguments of her brother and his wife, who joined Dare in combating her fears. Captain—or as we must now call him, Lieu- tenant Dare—having completed his arrange- ments, was sauntering down-town to take a look over the good old frigate. Passing the chandler’s, he thought of Laurie, and called in. The boy was out delivering a package, Mr. Brown told him, and then went on to say how attentive and careful Laurie was—which, of course, pleased Dare. Proceeding to the ot gee Dare found every- thing in readiness to sail, and received’a cordial welcome from Mr. Rogers, the second officer. ‘‘ Weare really ready to sail to-morrow,” said the latter, ‘‘although, of course, we will not weigh anchor for @ week,” adding: ‘But, we do want a boy—a boy for the cabin. I suppose we must go without, though. Nobody seems anxious to send a son on such a dangerous cruise, in such a position.” ** Laurie!” The thought flashed across Lieutenant Dare’s mind instantly, and he said: “ T will attend to getting the boy.” And the upshot of the matter was that Laurie became cabin-boy aboard the United States, with a fair chance of becoming a ‘‘ powder monkey,” or being killed, before the cruise was over, Then came the last day ashore, and with it arrived Captain Bainbridge. ‘““Mr, Dare, I’m happy to have you with me!” ‘was the fashion in which he greeted his first of- Aicer. ‘* A fighter from the word go!” thought Dare, as he returned the cordial grasp of the other’s d. And any one looking at the square jaws, firm chin, determined mouth and fearless eyes of Captain Nicholson, would have surely said the same, Next morning the entire household accom- ae Lieutenant Dare to the frigate—Captain ng,.as he quietly acknowledged, a little en- vious of his friend’s good fortune in getting so quickly into active service. Then came Captain Nicholson’s order to of the boat- swain’s whistle, many tearful, cheerful, hearty, mournful and affectionate adieus, and the fa- mous old frigate was again in commission, to add to her other laurels that of Corsair-Chaser. —e CHAPTER IIT, SINKING A PIRATE, As Captain Nicholson had plenty of time, he was instructed to skirt along the coast, and be- low asfar as the Bahamas, to see that every- thing was clear before proceeding to Loudon— the first port on the cruise. The boy, Laurie, during the voyage south- ward, had an opportunity to become acquainted with his duties, and with those aboard the ship —and he found both pleasant, Rough-and-ready Captain Nicholson liked him because of his parentage and his lonely condi- tion, and the same was true of the third officer, Mr. Porter, who, up to that time, had been a captain in the merchant service. The second officer, Mr, Rogers, liked him for himself, and because Dare was his friend, and with the midshipmen — Winters (commonly called ‘ Little inters”), Hull, Harper and Decatur—he was soon a general favorite. “They had just reached the vicinity of the Bahamas, when, one morning after breakfast, there camea from aloft, ** Who hails?” cried Dare, er ‘* Captain of the maintop, sir. Sail ho! ‘‘ Well, what’s strange about that?” ‘*Butl caught her hauling down the black | flag, sir, and she’s bearin’ right down on us!” ; g “Phew! That alters the case entirely!” ex- claimed Lieutenant Dare, and springing into the mizzen shrouds he took a survey of the stranger, which was now bearing down rapidly on the weather quarter. ‘*A rakish, suspicious-looking schooner, sir! Captain of the maintop saw her hauling down the Jolly Roger,” reported Dare, as he descend- ed to the deck, adding: < Evidently takes us for a merchantman, yet. ‘‘ Well, hell soon find out his mistake,” as- sured Captain Nicholson, who had come on deck on hearing the hail, ‘‘Get ready to follow him!” “6 Ay, ay, sir!” The frigate was under working canvas only, but with the men standing ready for the com- mand, it would not take long to put her under full sail. “Stand by to go about, and throw out every rag!” warned the captain a couple of minutes later, as he stood watching the rapidly-approach- ing schooner, t was not until the latter was within a mile of the supposed merchantman, that any signs of suspicions were shown. ‘“ There she goes!” cried Dare, as the schooner’s fore boom flew over—a sure sign of rounding to. ‘* Away to the tops there!” he continued. ‘Out with your flying jib and staysail! Away! Lively, lads, lively !” As the boatswain’s hoarse voice repeated the orders, the men were swarming into the tops and out on the bowsprit working like demons, while the frigate, in the hands of the first offi- cer, wore around, and started in pursuit of the sea rover. In those days, a half-dozen frigates and as many smaller vessels, composed the entire Ameri- can Navy! ag. dome at the same period had 1,000 sail.) On the other hand, there was a superabundance of trained officers, and this zave the puny navy one great advantage. The training and dis- cipline of the men, and the equipment and hand- ling of the vessels, were brought to the highest point of perfection. The United States was no exception to the: rule, and was about and in pursuit of the pirate, in less time than it would take another captain to give the necessary orders. A stern chase is proverbially a long one. The schooner had every inch of canvas set—a per- fect cloud of it—and with over a mile start, and a moderate breeze which favored her, it did not look like an easy task to. overhaul her. ‘* She’s beginning to draw away; she’s got the heels of us!” warned Porter, after a few min- utes. ‘*Oh, for a half-gale! Then we'd walk up on him!’ cried the captain. “More likely what wind there is will die away,” remarked Rogers, “‘}'m afraid you're right, Mr, Rogers,” re- turned the captain, ‘‘I’d like to overhaul! him without, but we'll have to bring down some of his gro arg ‘* Ho, there! Master Gunner!” and as Morris the gunner came forward, the commander con- tinued: ‘*See what you can do with that fellow’s spars!” ‘© Ay, ay, sir!” The gun was carefully sighted, there was a moment of suspense, then snap! went the lint- stock, and as the smoke cleared away anxious eyes were bent on the flying schooner, She was to all appearances uninjured. ** Again!” cried captain, promptly. ‘* She rolled just as I fired,” muttered Morris. iad Boom ” “ Boom ib Two reports rung out simultaneously—the pirate was ‘‘ talking back”—and the shots did about equal damage, The os foretopmast was cut almost clean away, while the schooner’s maintop suffered in like manner. Leaving Rogers to attend to the clearing away of the wreckage, Captain Nicholson watched the progress of the duel between his bow gun and the pirate’s stern chaser, Again and again the dull boom of the guns caused both sides to look anxiously at their fight spars, Men then amounted to nothing in com- parison with topmasts and yards But, aside from the unpleasantily close whist- ling of an occasional cannon ball, no trouble \ was caused by this running fire, and Captain Nicholson became impatient. ‘* Morris, Morris!” be cried. ‘‘ Your eye must be getting dim! Can’t you do anything with her?” ** She’s rolling so—but I'll smash her stern if ye like!” growled the gunner, ‘* Well, do something—anything—quick, for God’s sake!” Instead of dying away, as was feared, the wind had increased quite a little, causing the schooner to roijl enough to make her spars a difficult mark, Morris’s offer, therefore, was rather sarcastic, for the small, shapely stern of the low-lying schooner was more difficult to hit than her spars, but, averting his head to hidea gria, heanswered, cheerily enough: ac Ay, ay, sir!” “ce Boom ? Scarcely had the report of the bow gun died away, when the schooner flew up in the wind, regardless of her helm. ** What the dickens isthe matter? What have you done, Morris?” asked the captain. “ Looks as if their steering-gear was smashed,” Dare remarked, delighted with old Morris’s work, And he was right, As Morris pulled the lint- stock the schooner pitched forward, bringing up her stern, and the solid shot hit the stern-post full and fair, smashing it and breaking all con- a, with the wheel, rendering her unmanage- able, This, of course, could be remedied in time— but there was no time, at that crisis. The wind was freshening every minute, and the frigate was bearing down like an ava- lanche, so the pirate prepared to exchange broadsides, if the opportunity was afforded him. But he never fired a gun. ‘* Stand by to let go and haul! Ready there to check head-braces!” shouted Dare, as the frigate neared the schooner. e intended to cross the pirate’s stern, which would enable him to deliver a raking broadside without danger to himself. The frigate, tearing through the water in an eight-knot breeze, was soon at the desired point. ‘*Helm’s a-lee! Let go—haul—check head- braces!” ordered Dare, through his trumpet, big Morris stood ready to pour in his broad- side. ‘‘Hard up! Hard up!” thundered Dare, the next moment—but it was too late! As the frigate wore around, and, gathering headway, shot ahead to cross the stern of the schooner, a sudden change of wind threw the latter around—broadside on to the United States, There was a moment of horrible, breathless suspense, Cries of rage, defiance and despair arose from the crowded decks of the doomed schooner. Now only a wave separates the two vessels! And now, down comes the frigate upon the pirate craft, striking her right amidships! The noble vessel scarcely felt. the shock as she rode over the low waist, and crashed through the rigging of the doomed buccaneer. It was an ap g catastrophe—a terrible sea tragedy, that, for a few moments, held all aboard the American frigate spellbound. Though the enemy had been a sea freebooter and ocean wolf, the brave hearts on the gallant old United States sickened at the sight, The pirate’s doom had been awfully achieved, ‘*For God’s sake, captain, lower the boats!” cried Lieutenant Dare, at length, gazing at the foam-covered whirlpool, where a few spars and casks, with an occasional head or a hand, were rising and sinking. ** Too late—it’s all over with them mow,” said Nicholson, sadly; but, reconsidering his de- cision, the frigate was hove to and the boats were lowered. But, as the captain had declared, it was too late, except for one man, and he was ere long brought on board unconscious, One out of a crew of one hundred! ‘And now for London town!” exclaimed Captain Nicholson. ‘* We’ve done our business in this vicinity, I think. We'll find no more pirates to run down these waters, at pres- ent. ‘‘Mr, Porter, see about rigging a topsail— for it’ll be a wet sheet and a flowing sea, soon.” And, ere long, the grand old ocean patrol was . headed east, to give the Mediterranean corsairs a taste of her metal and a proof of the prowess of the Sons of the Young Republic.
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4 The Two Midshipmen. CHAPTER IV. THE CORSAIR'S GUNNER. DURING the voyage to London, Laurie grew steadily in favor with officers and crew—every one, except Pompey, the cook, who looked upon him with well-founded suspicion, for, as Laurie’s spirits rose, the spirit of mischief born in every boy rose with them, and Pompey suffered and suspected accordingly. To make up for this, Laurie became an extra prime favorite with Billy Boner—one of the steward’s assistants, Billy had lost an eye, was stiff in one leg, and never tired of telling—or rather trying to tell—how these casualties bad happened, but ‘he was never able to get further than: *‘ When I wuz down in the Spanish Main—” The momert * Spanish Main” was uttered, something wus sure to interrupt him. Either the persou be was addressing would walk away, or tell him to “ sbut eat or he would be called, Atone time he began his tale among a group of a dozen sailors. in an instant every man jick was on his feet, and with a vociferous and ea ig ‘*Shut—up!” walked away from Billy felt rather prema. for some time after that, but Laurie’s -nature gave him strong hope—for he was determined to tell that story. On the day following the sinking of the schooner, the survivor of the pirate crew came on deck with his head bandaged, and, in pass- ing Laurie, favored him with a curious, puzzled stare Hawkins, as the pirate called himself, had been badly hurt by a falling spar, and, when he recovered consciousness, his story caused Cap- tain Nicholson to decide to allow him to serve aboard the frigate as a guoner—for, without any indication of boastfulness, he had declared himself to be something of an expert with heavy guns, He had served aboard a merchant ship that was attacked by the sunken pirate. The ship was captured, and learning that he had been a gunner aboard an Englisb man-of-war, he was given the choice of serving in the same ca city on board the pirate, or of ‘‘ walking the R ‘*So not wantin’ to die just then, I took the job, but I never did anythin’ but handle the guns—they never axed me to do anythin’ else, an’ many a ship’s crew I’ve saved a-doin’ of it, averred Hawkins. ‘* How?” asked the captain, in surprise. ‘Why, by bringin’ down the’r spars an’ mak- in’’em heave to! Ye see, if we didn’t have no trouble, then the captain’d only make ’em pris- ery oe sell em, but—” Be a them?’ terrupted e@ captain, “‘ Where under heaven could he sell a white man r “There’s many a thousand white slaves in Algiers and Tripoli,” was the quick reply. *Anddo you mean to tell me that it was an Algerian pirate we sunk yesterday?” ‘Yes, sir. Ye see, Red Hand’s (him as was captain of the schooner)—Red Hand’s wife is Dnt there was goin’ tbe trouble with the United out there was go! le 6 United States, she gave him the hint t’ begin right away; 80, as it wouldn’t do t’ it on in the Mediterranean without gettia’ the word, Red Hand thought as how he’d try it on here, in American waters.” ‘* And so he was an Algerian!” mused Captain Nicholson. “Yes, sir. ’Twas him as took our ship, an’ sold the captain and crew at Tripoli.” ** He was the only one?” asked the interested captain. ‘Yes, sir—though sho may be a-comin’ after him,” replied Hawkins. «What! Is the wifea pirate, too?” **- Yes, sir. Worse than him as is dead sure, by all accounts,” The story related by Hawkins carried convic- tion with it, and Captain Nicholson told him to report to Morris as soon as Surgeon Parkes de- clared hir fit tor duty. Dare was on the quarter-deck when Hawkins came up from the cockpit, and observed the —— look with which the ex-pirate favored urie, ‘Laurie! Hawkins!” Both hurried aft at the call, and Dare asked: ‘‘ Hawkins, did you ever meet or see Laurie before?” (‘ Laurie” was the only name by which the boy was known aboard ‘the f. .) “T don’t know, sir,” replied Hawkins, with a uzzled expression on his weather-beaten, sun- urot countenance, adding: “If I did, it must have been long ago—still, his face looks sorta familiar-like. But it can’t be, ’cause way, he’s too young.” ** Sail ho!” came the hail from aloft. ** Sail ho!” was echoed from the deck, and the conversation was cut short. ’ Dare had heard the story of the ex-slave re- garding the Female Corsair, and sprung into the rigging. **Can you make her out, Mr. Dare?” called Captain Nicholson. ‘* Yes, sir; that is, I don’t think she’s an American; she’s coming up very fast, and we can soon decide.” ‘* It is Red Hand’s—Zora’s!” exclaimed Haw- kins, excitedly. Laurie, passing at the moment, heard and carried the remark to Dare, ‘‘ Wir, Hawkins says it is Zora’sship—the craft of that pirate’s wife,” ‘Is it possible?’ exclaimed the captain, look- ing in astonishment at his first officer. ‘*It is more than likely he is right; he knows the ship.” The strange vessel came with such rapidity that within a half-hour Dare was able to re- port. ‘‘Corvette, foreign build—looks decidedly French,” ‘*On what course?” ‘* He’s got the starboard tacas aboard, sir.” ‘* Has he a flying?” ‘He has nothing—no flags, signals, or any- thing else.” Shortly after he made this announcement: ‘* lt is undoubtedly Zora’sship. She’s simply wxzing deceive us.” I believe you’re right,” returned Captain Nicholson; ‘‘ back your topsail, and we’ll wait for her.” When within a mile, the corsair—for such she was now regarded—apparently began to grow suspicious and edged down cautiously until within a half-mile, when she rounded to on the same tack as the United States, The frigate now lay ina state of entire rest, without betraying the slightest interest in the movements of her hostile neighbor, it being Cap- tain Nicholson’s idea to lull the corsair into a feeling of security in attacking him. The stranger, however, a) more in- clined to stand off than down ov him and, to Hawkins, who had declared that Zora would fight anybody or anything, said: ‘* We'll touch his pride, since you think he is a mau of spirit. Fire a weather gun and show our colors! The Union Jack was quickly hauled down, and the American flag immediately hoisted ; then fol- lowed the roar of the . The frigate’s top- sail was filled, and she bore down on the cor- sair, The latter, however, displayed no inclina- tion to escape, the fact being that she was hears looking for the American corssir- unter. The latter stood down until within musket- shot range; then Dare, who was surveying the stranger tnrough his glass, surmised that her captain—Zora — had seen Hawkins, and had probably discovered the identity of his vessel. ‘*She has the modesty to carry a naked in our presence,” said Captain Nicholson, while standing on to board her. ‘‘ You have no love for them, Hawkins; see what you can do; give them a gun,” “Ay, ay, sir!” returned the accommodating gunner. The ex-pirate, who had coolly taken his sight while speaking, deliberately applied his match and sent what he boldly announced was a “ straight-goer.” The moments of suspenss succeeded ; then the torn f ents which were scattered in the air proved that the shot had stricken the corsair’s fore-topmast, ‘‘A splendid shot!” exclaimed Dare. ‘‘ You will be a credit to the service.” He was still speaking, when a succession of flashes came from the corvette, and so well di- rected was the volley that the iron hail passed directly across the deck of the United States. Up to this time the weather had been fair, but was now becoming threatening, and as Ca tain Nicholson was standing down to board, h main-royal was carried away.’ The delay occa- sioned by this, and the accident itself, gave the pirate ost yg inl gy to ao down - Parag ae spars and prepare for the impending India blast. The corsair epeeates as anxious to engu the frigate as the latter was to reach her but when the United States was within a half- cable’s length, the white squall parted them, the loss of her main-royal having. so crippled the noble old frigate that she could not reach the | light-heeled corvette, Zora, now driving before the blast, looked and acted as angrily disappointed as Captain Nicholson was himself, and leaning over the stern rail of her beautiful vessel, shouted her | defiance to the American: ‘*WhenI meet you aghin, I shall sink you, or be sunk!” The squall now burst in all its sudden fury, and prevented any reply to the challenge, but, standing on the capstan of his vessel, be returned the defiance of the female corsair with: **111 follow you, if necessary, to Tripoli, and I'll sink you when I reach you!” As quickly as it came, the squall passed away, but when it had gone by, the corsair had vanished—at least as far as any hope of pursuit was concerned, As soon, however, as Captain Nicholson had replaced his main-royal, he made all sail after the Algerine, determined, if pos- sible, to overhaul her and make good his threat. CHAPTER V. A WHITE SLAVE, WHILE the United States was lying in the Thanes at London, Hawkins suddenly remem- bered who it was that Laurie resembled, It flashed across him one evening just after Poa: per, and onsets from the gun, he excitedly exclaimed: ** lve got it, my lad! I’ve got it!” Laurie, sitting opposite on a block, looked at him in surprise, **Got what?” he asked ‘* Your face! It’s ~ old captain—him as was in command of the Flying Scud when she was took by Red Hand—tbat ye reminded me of; an’ ye do look uncommon like him.” ‘Why, that was the name of my father’s ship!” cried Laurie, “But it was Captain Lawrence—” ‘Yes, yes—I know!” interrupted the excited boy. ‘* How long ago was it captured? Is—is he still alive?” “ But it was Captain—” began Hawkins, again. Ot Haven't I told 7 I know all that? My name is Lawrence, but they call me Laurie— every one does.” Laurie had sprung up at the mention of the Flying Scud, and stood looking with eager ex- pectancy at the old gunner. The latter was too astonished to reply, and Laurie grew impatient. ** Can’t you speak?” he cried. , but you knocked me all of a heap,” replied awkins, *The Flying Scud was took ‘bout ten year ago in the Mediterranean, There was only a small crew, and no arms of any account, so they had no trouble. ‘* Ag t? whether Cap’n Lawrence is alive—I can’t say. Him 'n’ the rest was took to Tripoli t’ be sold for slaves, ‘‘Cap’n Lawrence was a fine sailor, 'n’ well eddicated, ’n’ mebbe he was put at some soft job. If so be he was, he's alive yit, mebbe!” That was all Hawkins could tell—all that he knew. Laurie listened like one in a dream. His father sold as a slave! For a long time the boy remained silent, thinking over the strange story he had heard, How could he find out if hia father was alive? And if he was, how secure his liberty? “‘T must talk to Mr. Dare,” he decided, and leaving Hawkins still wondering, sought the lieutenant. The latter was in the cabin, conversing with the captain about their future movements, for, all the stores and water being aboard, the United States was to sail next day. Laurie hesitated, and was about to withdraw when the captain caught sight of him. ‘*Come in, Laurie! What is it?” His a was kind and encouraging, and the said: I wanted to speak'to Mr. Dare about my fa- er, “Your father? He’s dead, is he notf’ asked the captain, in le ‘* So we believed, sir, but I have heard of him to-night, and now I believe—I hope—he is liv- “ye ing. Frith this ® saan Laurie related the story told him by Hawkins, and finished with the two questions he had asked himself: ‘How can [ find him, and how secure his liberty ?”’ Captain Nicholson (through Dare) knew Laurie’s —knew that he was poor and friendless, and therefore said nothing about ran- som, ee
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~ ¢ “ie Bs, | 5 Pea ey yd Ee (etiam th E : Hee, ae? Th (} OM, —_— - — The Two Midshipmen. 5 E will be a difficult matter to ascertain nere your father is,” he said, ‘‘ but I will do my best for you. Were it not for this trouble | about the tribute money, I would go direct to Tripoli, but we cannot risk that now. **However, I am acquainted with several English officers, and they will make inquiries, When we ascertain where he is, we will devise All were surprised at the gunner’s statement, some means to secure his liberty.” and none doubted the correctness of his informa- **And if necessary, Laurie, I will ransom |. tion. bim,” added Dare, | ‘* Why does she show French collors?” asked ‘*{ will try to deserve your kindness—your | the captain. goodness!” said Laurie, as be returned to the ‘* Probably a bit suspicious of our colors, sir, deck, Wants t’ make us fly the ginuine article sir!” Tears of gratitude stood in his eyes, but he; England was then the only nation the Al- knew both men too well to attempt to express | gerian pirates feared, and for safety American his feelings in words. | vessels in those seas generally sailed under the ‘“‘He said ‘deeds, not words,’” thought the | English flag. boy, ‘‘and I must show that 1 am worthy of | To carry out his pretensions of being a mer- their kindness,” chantman, Captain Nicholson hed hoisted the From that hour Laurie became a different | Union Jack when the corvette was first an- boy. Not that he was less good-natured or | nounced. merry, but he began at once to study every de- The pirate, however, was still suspicious, and tail connected with the management of the fri- | edged down cautiously until only a half-mile ship—the one we met in the squall. ago an’ gave her to his wife.” Every one turned in surprise to behold Hawkins on the quarter-deck, hat in hand. ‘* Zora’s ship!” gate. se) ted the vessels. This pnew-born interest was quickly noticed, mmediately after rounding to, the corvette and from the beginning the senior officers and | further reduced her canvas until she was carry- men gave Laurie every assistance—Dare and ing about the same sail as the frigate. Morris and Hawkirs, in their particular de- “Trying her rate of sailing against ours,” re- partments, devoting especial care to his instruc- | marked Dare. tion, ‘* You're right, sir,” added Hawkins. ‘The Following their example, the master-at-arms | Shark is a fast one, but she’s just about matched took him in hand, and the result was that Lau- | this time.” rie soon knew more than any of the midship- Ten minutes’ sailing proved Hawkins correct men about the handling of a ship, a gun or a | as the relative positions of the vossels remained sword. | about the same, Of the midshipmen, “ Little” Winters joked | Then, to the astonishment of those aboard the Laurie about bis zeal, Decatur and Hull took the | frigate, the corvette hove to, matter in earnest and encouraged him, while ‘* W hat’s up now?” exclaimed the captain. Harper sneered. ‘*Hadn’t we better follow her move?” asked “The cabin-boy is getting too big for Lis posi- | Dare. ‘‘ It will force his hand.” tion,” he said. ‘‘ Wants to become a midship-| ‘* Yes, perhaps it will,” replied the captain, man, lll wager.” ‘** Square the main yards!” ** And why shouldn't he?’ demanded fiery | ‘The order was quickly executed, and then for Decatur. ‘‘He’d easily make a better one than ; several minutes the two vessels, scarcely a half- you!” mile apart, Jay rocking on the bosom of ‘the Harper made no response. He had already | Mediterranean. tested the strength and skill of the future cap- ‘*Looks as if she was afraid of us!” thought tain of the Essex and hero of Tripoli, and did | Rogers. not care to do so again. ‘* Afraid!” exclaimed Hawkins, who remained Along down from London, past France and | among the officers to give any information the Lisbon the United States slowly made her way, | captain might desire, ‘‘ Afraid! Beggin’ your always on the lookout for pirates of any de- | pardon, sir, Zora wouldn’t be afraid if we wasa scription, and Algerian pirates in particular, ine-o’-battle instead of a frigate! She’s theShe- Then in through the Straits of Gibraltar, | terror, sbe is! beggin’ your pardon, sir!” past Morocco and into the Mediterranean she “By Jove! Hawkins is right!” exclaimed the captain, ‘‘ Here she comes, and there’s the in- teresting !ady herself on the quarter-deck—a good-looking terror, I should say!” ‘* Mr, Dare, you will look after the sailing of the ship.” “* Ay, ay, sir,’ and giving orders to fill the main yards, Dare turned to watch the maneu- vers of the pirate corvette. : Standing on the quarter-deck of the rapidly- approaching vessel, he saw through his glass a well-formed woman attired in scarlet-colored Turkish trowsers, a fez of the same color, and a short blue jacket. Through the wide sash around her waist — thrust a Turkish saber and a pair of pistols. Dare, watching her closely, could see that Zora was directing every movement aboard the corvette, and quickly perceived that her object was to cross the stern of the frigate, probably The frigate was extra well manned, armed and provisioned, and every one on board actual- Jy spoiling for a fight. CHAPTER VI. THE SHARK AGAIN, ‘‘A FINE lad, that Laurie!” said Captain Nicholson to Dare, the first morning after pass- ing tbrough the Straits. ‘He is, indeed. I wish I had tried to have him appointed midshipman,” returned Dare, lancing at Laurie, who was standing at the w ge listening to Morris and Hawkins, ‘“* He won’t wait lorg!” declared the captain significantly. adding: ‘Hello! What's that?” ** Hail from aloft, sir. Sail, ho!” ** Whereaway ?” cried the captain. » “ Weather , sir, and bearing down ‘* Beggin’ your pardon, sir, but that’s Zora’s | to be hurt. A She was a | breast, and the brave little fellow, dancing French corvette, but Red Hand took her a year | about a minute before, shouting and talking to / / | | grapeshot struck him in the the men, staggered and fell to the deck. Laurie leaped to his side; but, even to his in- experienced eyes, the torrent of blood pouring from the middy’s breast toli the tale. ‘* Little ” Winters had seen his first and last sea fight! Decatur joined Laurie, a moment later, and on them they carried the dying middy be- ow. ‘* Laurie,” he said, when they laid him down, * Laurie, they’]l make you midshipman in my place, | Decatur, promise to ask the captain to do it! ‘“T will!” said Decatur, with tears in his i eek ‘but let me go for Parkes. You'll be all gbht—” **No, no!” interrupted Winters; ‘‘ I’m dying —let him attend to those that—that—have a chance, ‘“*And, Laurie, you must take my things; they'll fi—fit you. Tell mother—you, Laurie, that—that I died in—bat— Augh!” His head fell on his breast, and the blood poured out of his mouth. Merry, mischievous, unselfish and brave ‘‘ Lit- tle” Winters was dead Drawing a blanket over the body, Laurie and ae get both sad at heart, returned to the main eck, Again and again Dare had forced the pirate to exchange broadsides, which, owing to the heavier metal of the frigate, proved very much to the disadvantage of the corvette corsair. But the destruction on both sides was terrible, the lower decks of the Algerine causing her to suffer most in men, spars and rigging, while the United States suffered most in her hull and lower spars, Just as Laurie and Decatur came up, the cor- vette hauled her tattered courses on board, and, after delivering a parting volley from her small- aris, stood off ahead of the frigate. ** She's off!” cried Rogers. ‘* Not so!” replied Dare; ‘‘she’s tired of this and is preparing to board! She'll be round again and down on us in five minutes!” ‘‘Ready there! All hands to repel boarders!” cried Captain Nicholson, who had explicit faith in his first officer’s judgment, ‘* We're in bad shape for boarding,” he said, looking ruefully at his tattered canvas, broken yards and splintered foremast—which seemed liable to fall at any moment. ‘*'Yes, she’s almost unmanageable,” replied Dare, adding: ‘* And although we have already shot away a full sbip’s company, they outnumber us greatly yet. At that: moment the report of a gun burst from the deck of the frigate, and the captain turned angrily to see who had failed to fire in the last exchange of broadsides, Smoke was curling from the long swivel-gun in tho bows. Behind it stood the two boys, Lau- rie and Decatur, and beside it lay the old gun- ner, Hawkins, ‘“By Jove! There goes her foremast!” ex- claimed Dare, And the captain turned again in time to see the foremast of the corsair fall over the side carrying with it the maintopmast and most of the crew who had been standing in the rigging. ‘“*That ends the boarding!” cried Dare, glee- fast!” ** A corvette—twenty-two guns, besides her _ bridle ports!” cried Dare, who had sprung in:o | the rigging with his glass and was now survey- ing the stranger. ‘Can you make out her hull?” ‘No, sir; but her spars and canvas are foreign, and she shows no colors,” replied Dare, In accordance with a suggestion of Dare, the frigate, before entering the Mediterranean, was fixed to look as little as possible like an armed cruiser, but it was plain that the stranger, if hostile, would have no hesitation about attack- —— ccordingly, everything was put in readiness for the expected attack, although the ports were vs closed and almost all the crew were sent ow. ; Captain Nicholson wished to make the other begin, and therefore invited attack by appear- se, be helpless. : _ The corvette was fast coming up, and soon was within a mile of the fri gate. She's French all over tamed Porter, as the stranger reduced sail, and rounded to on the same tack as the frigate. *Yes, look at the rake of her stern,” added _ Rogers, ‘See, there goes the tri-color!” to rake her. ‘* That trick is too stale, Madame Zora!” he muttered, as he took a position near the man | at the wheel. | ‘When I raise my hand, put your helm down —hard !” he said to the helmsman, ‘* Ready there, now!” he continued, as, when within two cables’ length of the frigate, The Shark put her helm up, and paid off to pass un- der the stern of the United States, ; The art of handling and fighting the old fully. ; ‘* Hurrah for the gunner—whoever he was!” _ Coming on deck, Laurie saw Hawkins bang- ing over his gun. He had been badly wound just before the order to fire was has but in the excitement no one had noticed it. ‘* Are you much hurt, Hawkins?” asked Lau- rie, At first the old gunner could not speak, He kept pointing to his gun, and it was not until the corvette was bearing down on them that he un- broadside frigate had been carried to a point | derstood him. t in the little American Navy which meant al- At the same moment Hawkins managed to most unvarying success, and was confessedly | whisper: far superior to that then practiced by any “The gun—Fire !” other nation. And Laurie, with the aid of Decatur, s It was, therefore, a rather derisive smile with | the gun around, sighted, and fired—and thus which Dare greeted the movement of the cor- | probably saved the noble frigate for her work of adding glory to the Stars and Stripes! CHAPTER VII. A WOLF AFTER THE LAMB, | SHORTLY after the departure of the frigate United States, on her corsair cruise, Ge: Sein sair, . ‘Out with your jib -sheet — check head- braces!” he cried, with his hand in the air, and as the helm was put bard down, the United | States was thrown up in the wind, This forced the Algerine to exchange broad- sides, which at such close range created terrible | King received orders to report for duty, and it havoc among spars and rigging, as well as | then became Mrs. King’s turn to shed tears and among officers and men. ‘** Little” Winters was the first of the former — utter protests, Although Emily did not openly remind her -
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8 te . To sister-in-law of the philosophical indifference which had been recommended on Darrel Dare’s departure, and the ridicule and remonstrance which greeted her grief at their separation, she began to regain her spirits from the hour the orders arrived, It is a sad, but notorious fact, that in the troubles of others, poor, weak humanity finds consolation for its own sorrows, Now Emily was only buman, and assisted in the preparations for her brother’s departure quite cheerfully—heartlessly, Mrs, King said. Then Captain Adams was called upon, as usual, to take up his residence in the King homestead during bis nephew’s absence, and, as usual, the old sea-dog entered a vigorous pro- test against being ‘‘ thrown out of his regular course,” This included the * blasting of his top-lights” and the consigning of such holiday craft as ‘* petticoats” to eternal perdition—all except his niece, Emily. Having done this, the captain felt much better, and proceeded to the King homestead, arriving there in time to witness his nephew’s de re, Atout ten days afterward, Captain Adams, Mrs. King and Emily, attended a social gather- ing at the house of their nearest neighbor—a Mrs. Diamond. It was one of those informal, really sociable pale mly where people become acquainted in short order, Among those present was a Lieutenant Vernier, an elegantly-attired, rather handsome, well-bred young man, who showered compli- ments and attentions upon Emily until Captain Son growled that he had “‘ better sheer off a it. This Lieutenant Vernier had tact and wisdom enough to do without appearing to notice the captain’s wrath, but not until he had obtained permission to call on the Kings next day. He flattered Mrs. King by mistaking her for Ewmily’s sister, and the captain by hisadmiration of the American"Navy, and his anxiety to know more about it—having been himself in the French Navy. **Lieutenant Vernier—Vernier!—where have I heard that.name before?’ mused the captain, as he sat smoking bis pipe before ‘turning in,” but he went to bed without being able to an- swer the question. Lieutenant Vernier called next day, and it The Two Midshipmen. his heart, Vernier acknowledged the justice of Emily’s words, and thus scored the first point in his yet unformed plan to prevent her marriage to Dare. For Emily was touched by the woebegone ex- | pression of his countenance, and said he ‘* must not let this interfere with their family rela- ) tions,” which was the precise point Vernier was trying to gain. | He was still on a.friendly footing, and Emily | was not of the type to mention his proposal. As he was leaving Emily at the door, Vernier | noticed a shabby-looking man on the opposite side of the road who was evidently watching for | him, and he remembered having seen the man there at least once before, With good reason to feel suspicious of any one showing the slightest interest in himself or his movements, Vernier resolved to find out who the fellow was and why he was following him. Thrusting his hands carelessly into his pock- ets to assure himself that his pistols were handy, Vernier sauntered toward the river, He was soon aware tbat the shabby individual was following him, and, after leading him to the loneliest part of the lonely road, turned sudden- ly and demanded: ‘*Who are you? What d’ye want?” The low, fierce tone frightened the man, and he shrunk back. ‘*T’ve only been watchin’ for a chance t’ ta t’ ye, Mr. Grace!” was his startling re- Pp Tecate started in turn. Here was one, at any rate, who was not deceived by the change which a heavy black mustache had wrought his appearance. ‘“* What d’ye mean by Mr, Grace?” he asked, ‘‘ Well, don’t get mad about it. Ye see, twas me as did the job that put you in the way of a fortune when you were only a year old. My name is Smith. My wife was old Tudor’s house- keeper, ’n’I got her t’ change you for young Dare—but it seems he got some o’ the money after all,” **Yes—curse him!” said Vernier, bitterly, and then, remembering the presence of the other, asked, carelessly: ‘* Well, Smith, what is it you want?” He was ap ait cool again—as a thoroughb- paced villain should always be—and Smith, who was elated on seeing him stirred a moment be- fore, now looked rather sheepish. Smith stared for a moment, and Vernie tinued: ‘Tt is likely a lady will accompany us. Do you know where to find a nice colored girl to attend her?” Smith’s eyes were fairly bulging with aston-~ ishment, but he answered promptly and confi- dently : ‘*- Yes, sir, I think I do.” ‘* Well, that’s one difficulty over. rest was as wi: dol ** Anythin’ I could do, sir?” ** T don’t know,” Vernier did not speak again for several min- I wish the utes. Smith must know about the abduction soon, and he was thinking whether to intrust him with the secret now. Through Smith, one dif- ficulty had already disappeared—perhaps, with two heads at work, the others would do the same, Carelessly fingering a silver-mounted pistol, Vernier began: ‘* Smith, you have suggested that I should tell ou something, and I’ve decided to do so, but if Tne have reason to suspect that you have repeated it, or are about to, I shall shoot you like a dog.” Then he told Smith of his intention to abduct er “They are rich and powerful,” cautioned mith. ** Bah! Still, I don’t care to run any unneces- sary risks, and how to get her aboard without Adams or Mrs, King, I can’t see. ““Tf we went off without them and failed to return, the supposition would be that we had either run off together, or that the schooner had been sunk, which would save all further not get some ledy te act as an aunt, or a sister?” suggested Smith. ‘“Don’t be a fool! Where could you find a lady who would lend herself to such a scheme?” ‘*T think I know one.” “What? A lady?” : “Yes, alady. I think I could persuade her— for a consideration,” ‘* For you, or her?” asked Vernier, sneeringly. ‘Hor me, She will not even know the part she is Lae gg" in your little game.” **Good! Smith, if zon manage to do that I Me men you rich. ho isshe? What’s your an x ? y te ae — Sa ‘ ~« - Sere Os ee “oe, om ay oe was plain to all that he was deeply smitten ** Well, sir, ye can see by m appearance how ‘Just this, There’s a lady—no mistake about Dei with Emily, but, unfortunately, it was not | I’m fixed,” he said, rigeivcom y, ‘an’, as I was | it either—over whom I can use considerable in- £ your friend as well as your father’s, [ thought | fluence, but I’ve been holdin’ off for a big stake, is > 4 ’ equally plain thet be was a thorough-paced vil- lain mebbe you'd help me a little. Soe you've got a fine schooner. Mebbe ye could make some use 0’ me there—l’m a pretty good sailor.” Vernier’s right hand came out of his pocket. There was nothing to fear from this fellow, and perhaps he could use him on the schooner so you can be as liberal as you like. “*She’s only a housekeeper now, but she was wealthy once, an’ I'll get ber t’ consent t’ be your aunt for a couple hours.” ‘‘What’s her name?” asked Vernier, curious- Sikes ae oS For Lieutenant Vernier was none other than Matthew Grace, ex-midshipman of the frigate United States, ex-pirate, and (morally) murderer ge of _his benefactor. Bi He had adopted his father’s assumed name, % and, with one hundred dollars given him by his ~— i Sek <elinci = ‘ee y ‘ ‘Mrs. Lawrence! She's a widow.” ae eed hs benefactor, after the attempt to murder the lat- | in some way. ; ‘* Well, go ahead—see her!” é Cana +! ter, fled to Jamaica, where he secured a great As this occurred to him, an idea flashed ‘Shall | make it for to-morrow afternoon— By bh deal of his father’s blood-stained wealth. through Vernier’s brain—one that startled him, | say about three? I mean for you t’ be intro- ae ind Out of this he purchased a small, but remark- | af first. duced, an’ then you can call for the other.” (ay 7 ably fast and beautiful schooner, and sailed to Emily, accompanied by either Captain Adams ‘‘ Better make it two,” said Vernier, adding= " Hi) a Carthagena, where he secured still more of the | or Mrs. King, bad gone sailing with him in his | ‘‘If you are sureof what you say,Vll goar- Bf, dead pirate’s treasure, so that when he returned | beautiful schooner several times, range for it now.” tye By to New York, Grace, or rather Vernier, was Why not get her to go again—and not come ‘Sure? Give me a hundred dollars—she may th 4 back ? He stopped there. It was a matter to be thought over—thought over carefully. enormously wealthy. © want t’ buy something t’? wear—an’ I'll bet my ty head against a rotten ed “P Y? ‘Very well, Smith, Here’s the money, but He Vernier had many points in his favor. “4 an BT was young, handsome, well-bred, wealthy. ofnt of at last, but not least, from a feminine Be Taking some mouey from his pocket, he hand- | beware how you keep your promise!” a = view, he was deeply in love with Emily King. ed it to Smith, saying: — “* Don’t fear— Oh! Nomatter what questions ae a When this last fact became so glaringly ap- ‘‘There’s more than enough for what you | you are asked, say you can’t answer until you’re £@ oa rent that it could no longer be winked at, | need. When you the clothes, come down | on the schooner. : } ie] Pal ii: ptain Adams called Emily to account, but | to the schooner. erhaps I can make use of | ‘‘And another thing. Don’t introduce her as ar Sates quickly found that his fears for Dareé’s happiness | you.” your aunt—just say . Lawrence.” ay ht 7 ee were groundless, , : “Thank ye! Thank ye! I’llbe therein an} The twovillains parted, and, when they met % oF Bical}. _ This was demonstrated the following day, | hour!” exclaimed Smith, astonished at the lib- | again inthe evening, each reportedentire suc- (CN when Vernier called to offer his hand and for- | erality of the gift. cess, ‘ Ry de an " tune to Emily. ““Don’t hurry yourself,” said Vernier, quiet-| ‘‘ And see to the stores at once!” said Vernier, a i hats \ He was aware of her engagement to Darrel Sah Dare from the very outset, but this did not ap- : to discourage his attentions—in fact, it ly, as he resumed his walk toward the river. ‘The very man I want!” thought Vernier. ‘“*He’s got plenty of money—I must stick to “ All right, sir.” 3 | E ‘** And if you can get a half-dozen or more good | men for a Micon )aPtee ¢ to the Bahamas—why i secretly spurred himon. _ him,” muttered Smith. bring ’em aboard to-night. You know the kind lg What a glorious revenge it would be to steal And thus the first stone in the foundation of | we want.” ; ‘ / ern f the promised bride of the man he hated | the plot to abduct Emily King was laid, ‘Like myself,” said Smith, with a hideous Bar But that was not to be accomplished—at least CHAPTER VIII. « Exactly.” 43 ey: not with Emily’s consent. THE DASTARD DEED, At y three o’clock next day, Vernier, ‘““Why, Mr. Vernier, you know Iam en-| VERNIER pondered long and deeply over his | accompanied by a lady in deep mourning, | Rhy scheme to abduct Emily, but aside a seizing | entered theresidence of Captain King. ae her in the presence of Captain Adams or Mrs.| Mrs, King had approved of Vernier’s proposi- King, could see no way of getting her aboard | tion to take Emily sailing with hisnewly arrived = the yacht alone, aunt, and regretted that an engagement would ~ At the end of a week, he handed Smith a list | preyent her from accompanying them. of miscellaneous articles and stores, er Captain Adams, who shunned female society _ “Get those things on board as quickly and | in general, would not go, and kept out of the quietly as possible. We may sail at any mo- ba when the callers were expected, ment this week.” hen Vernier called the previous day, stilt — f, ged to Captain Dare!” she exclaimed, in in- by dignant surprise—‘‘ that we are to be marriedin eee October!” i ‘Never! I swear it!” Vernier did not say this aloud, but he was in \ deadly earnest when he registered this mental vow to prevent the marriage. - In a resigned, hopeless way that betrayed s _ mothing of the bitter, desperate determination in
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= Ca Pe ee’ ee ee ee =e ye ae eee, SSS TA ee oe ~* < 7S Y seas = ‘ o = - xy © See oy he y is Se 3 te arn ey ay they ceased 7 he Two Midshipmen. that name, « Mrs. Lawrence was a beautiful woman of about thirty-five, with Jarge mournful eyes that won Emily’s sympathy, but she was all ready when they called; and there was no time for talking. Little was said on the way to the schooner, but Emily remarked that Vernier, who did most of the talking, never addressed his aunt. At the water front, they found Smith with a small boat—so small that there was room for only one oarsman and one passenger. Vernier looked and spoke very angry, on see- ing this. * You should have known better than bring this boat, Smith!” he said, and then to Emily: «Please step in. 1 will put you aboard, and then come back for my aunt.” Emily would have objected, but Mrs. Law- rence was talking to Smith, and not wishing to interrupt ber, she obeyed. On going aboard the schooner, Vernier led Emily below to the after-cabin, where, to her surprise, she found a young colored girl. ‘* Dora will give you a glass of wine, while I Sh back for my aunt,” said Vernier, and before mily could reply, he was gone. She noticed that the door closed after him witb a peculiar click, but gave it no attention at the time. There were two small windows in the stern of the schooner, and through these Emily could see Vernier rowing leisurely ashore. Just as he was about toland, Dora, the colored girl, offered her a glass of iced sherry. The day was warm, the walk to the beach— (there were no piers in the upper part of the river)—a long one, and Emily was glad to accept ‘Glancing through the window again, as she raised. the glass to her lips, Emily saw Mrs, Lawrence crying and wringing her hands, ap- arently’in great agony, and a vague feeling of ear took possession of her. She sct the glass down beside her, and watched the group ashore—not two hundred yards away. f Suddenly Vernier raised his hand, and in- stantly Emily heard the men raising the anchor, |! What could it mean? She had sailed often enough in Dare’s cutter, lying near by, to know that this meant they were about to sail at once, and was wondering why the others did not come aboard, when she was horrified to see Smith strike Mrs. Lawrence a brutal blow in the face. As the unfortunate woman fell, Emily uttered a piercing shriek for help and fainted. hen she recovered consciousness, Emily found Dora bending over her, and the tender, pitying expression in the colored girl’s eyes gave her hope, although causing her tears to flow freely. ‘Oh, what does this mean?’ cried Emily, springing up. Dora shook her head ominously, as she re- ied: **T do not know—TI cannot understand.” Emily’s heart supk. She half-suspected the truth, and wailed: “‘ For God’s sake, tell me, if you know!” **T do not know,” repeated Dora, sadly, add- ing: a Your husband—” “ y. husband!” cried Emily, interrupting her, ‘I have no husband! I am not mar- ried!” ERS ‘*Ah! Now I understand!” exclaimed Dora, her face lighting up. ‘* Heis a villain! Your wine must have been drugged—that was why he was angry because you did not drink it! © _‘*But hush! I hear him coming down, Take this—you may need it!” _ With the last words, the excited girl took from her bosom a small dagger, which, together hes the scabbard, she thrust into Emily’s . a --e CHAPTER IX. THE OLD SEA-DOG ON THE TRAIL, TH footsteps descending the companionway, ‘which had attracted Dora’s attention, grew slower and slower as they approached, until at , and raising her eyes, Emily saw Vernier standing at the entrance, ey For the first time in his life, as Vernier ‘or Grece, the abductor was not at ease, and it was witis'a forced smile he said: “You have been a little frightened, Miss King. I trust we have—that is, that you are | fully recovered?” j ‘**T shall be when you set me on shore—and I | must ask you to do so at once!” The words were firm enough, but the tone showed the speaker was frightened. Vernier, who had been drinking to nerve | himself for this interview, Jaughed hoarsely. ‘* Impossible, my dear Miss King. We are now running before a half-gale, and standing out to sea!” ; *“It is impossible!” gasped Emily. ‘‘ You cannot be so mean, cowardly, treacherous, as to take advantage of my trust in you!” ‘*Go into the outer cabin, Dora,” ordered Vernier, and with a significant glance at ney the girl obeyed. ‘““My dear Miss King—Emily—” began Ver- nier, advancing as he spoke, ‘*Stop! What you have to say can be said where you are!” cried Emily, clutching more lightly the dagger concealed in the folds of her ress, Under any other circumstances, with any other person, Vernier would have laughed at the command, but his love for Emily was hon- est and true to a certain extent, as yet—the only honest feeling or passion he had experi- enced for many years, if at all, “You can say nothing to palliate your con- duct,” continued Emily, as she stood confused where she had stopped him, ‘‘ Take me home at once and I may forgive you.” ‘* Never until you are my wife!” cried Ver- nier, coming together suddenly, and then, as the pane. began to work, he advanced again, say- n g: **Come, Emily, it’s no use fighting against fate. One kiss before I leave you.” ‘Back! Stand back, you coward!” cried Emily, raising the dagger. He fell back a yard or two, and stood staring at her in surprise. ‘*Very well—you may be glad to— Never mind, you'll change your ideas before long,” and turning on his heel Vernier left the cabin, while Emily sunk back almost fainting. Half a minute later, Dora entered from the outer cabin, bearing a tray in one hand, and in the other a small carving-knife, ** Don’t be afraid, miss, 1 would have killed him if he laid a hand on you,” she said, her eyes glowing like coals of fire, “Come, you must try to eat something,’ she continued, ‘‘and drink a cup o’ tea. I know that ain’t doctored, cause I made it myself.” Emily thanked her with a look of gratitude, and obeyed her injunction as far as the tea was concerned, “Oh, you mus’ eat somethin’,” said Dora. “If ye don’t, you'll get so weak ye won’t be no ‘count ’tall,” “Thank you, Dora, Vl try,” said Emily with a faint, sad smile. The cabin was neatly finished in maple and walnnt, and furnished elegantly, with two cur- tained berths, a table, two easy-chairs and a small lounge. A number of books stood in a rack in one corner, and on top of these Emily saw some- thing shining, which, on examination, proved to be a silver-mounted pistol—loaded. When the two girls retired for the night, the pistol was under Emily’s pillow, and the dag- ger under Dora’s, but they were not troubled by any one until the steward, a West Indian negro, knocked to ask if Emily would breakfast with the captain in the outer cabin. ‘* Not if 1 have any choice in the matter,” was the prompt reply. Shortly after Dora was called, and when she returned she carried a tray containing Emily’s breakfast, ‘*He’s comin’ soon as you’re through,” said Dora, ‘* Very well—I can’t prevent him,” rejoined Emily, quite calmly. She had the pistol in her pocket, and felt confi- dent in her ability to protect herself, More- over, Dora bad given her some comforting information, namely, that her (Dora’s) brother, full of boyish curiosity, had been hidden among the trees near the spot where Mrs, Lawrence was so brutally stricken down. He had declared his intention of seeing the pact a sail, and must have witnessed the as- sau There was little doubt but that he would assist Mrs. Lawrence, who would undoubtedly notify Mrs. King and Captain Adams. \ That the latter would pursue the schooner, was as gure as fate, When, therefore, Vernier entered the after- cabin, he found Emily cool and confident, instead of in tears and full of reproaches, and he looked suspiciously at Dora, to whom he said: **-You can leave us!” ‘* Miss King,” he began, in a very respectful tone, “I trust I did not frighten you last vight?”’ Emily’s eyes were full of scorn, but she did not reply. Vernier had a wicked temper. He saw the scorn in her eyes and about her mouth, and his next words were in a sullen, defiant tone: ‘* Well—I’ve come to apologize. That’s all I can do.” ; “You are forgetting that you can return me to my home,” **That I will not do until you return as my wife,” ‘Very well,” said Emily, calmly. ‘Is that all you wished to say?” Her coolness alarmed and angered him. ‘* You are taking things pretty ey The sneer accompanying the words irritated oe but, restraining her temper, she re- lied : ni Why should I not do so? My uncle is already in pursuit of you.” Vernier started, and then, with a harsh laugh, said: ‘*The Marguerite can show her heels to any- thing afloat. Besides, your dear old uncle don't know where to look for me.” ‘* Don’t be too sureof that!” Again Vernier started, but, remembering the speed of the schooner, recovered himself. ‘* Granting he does know—how can he over- take us? As I told you, the Marguerite is supe- rior in speed to anything afloat.” ‘* Don’t be too sure of that, either,” said Emily nae adding: 7 ‘*] don’t think you ever tried your speed against Captain Dare’s cutter, That is the fast- est boatin or about New York, and remember you were watched going away, and she is now on your track, ‘““Your only chance to escape my uncle's vengeance is to put me ashore somewhere at once,” For a moment Emily thought be was consid- ering the advisability of doing so, but she was wrong. “Tf the cutter is armed, and I cannot get © away,” he said, quietly, ‘‘ I'l] scuttle the schoon- er and sink all hands,” There was no doubt of the sincerity of Ver- nier’s horrible threat, and Emily shuddered. Vernier, V orioy the floor nervously, noticed the effect of his words, ‘ It is not pleasant, and [ hope it will not be necessary,” be said, slowly, ‘‘ but, much as I love you, I would rather sink with you in my arms than surrender you to be the bride uf an- other--and especially—that other.” ** And I would ruther sink to the bottom of the ocean than become your bride!” was Emily’s spirited reply, adding : “* As for sinking in your arms, you can rest esntind that there is no danger of my doing at. ‘‘There’s something like that cutter — you . know, the one I wanted to scuttle—climbing right up on us!” said Smith, sticking his head into the cabin, ‘Allright! Dll be up in a minute!” replied Vernier, and turning to Emily: “Instead of looking so joyous. you should be praying that it is not that cutter /” Emily did not reply, and calling Dora from the outer cabin, Vernier locked tbe door lead- ing into it. Then, with a emgc ony glance about the cabin, be ascended to the sole and Emily could hear the companionway-slide lock- ed after him. Vernier was more troubled by Emily's words than he cared to acknowledge, : A strong gale had sprung up during the early part of the previous night, and he had been com- sew to shorten sail, and at times heave to. His ght-draught schooner would not stand it, while the deep cutter, with a half-ton of lead bolted to her keel, would derive all the benefit of the gale, which had not yet entirely subsided. ‘It looks like her, sir!” said Smith, as Ver- nier came up. — . “I'm afraid it is,” replied Vernier. ‘‘ Crowd on every rag she'll carry, and curse the spars!” CHAPTER X. ESCAPED—THE THREAT, NoTHING but a rapid decrease in the strength of’the wind saved the canvas of the Marguerite from being blown out of the bolt-ropes. As it was, the groaning of the spars end straining of the rigging, as the schooner pitched eee eerre nee | a fla a pian tg phen re i wl Nea it tp als a at ii lly ay Gens eee ve
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The Two Midshipmen. forward, warned them that something must give soon, but the gale was slowly dying away to a steady, strong wind, Both vessels were laying a soutlwest course, bringing the wind well abeam, and as _ the schooner began to hold her own, hope revived in the breast of Vernier. It might not be the cutter, after all. It might be only a coincidence, caused by the storm, that she was steering precisely the same course as the schooner, e would soon find out, ‘* Lay her off a couple of points!” he said to Smith. Ina moment it was evident that the vessel astern had done the same. ‘¢Tr’s her, sure enough,” said Smith, Vernier shrugged his shoulders—he was hop- ing against hope. ‘Start the sheets, and run her off to leeward a bit,” he said. Again the cutter altered her course, but now, as 1f to clear away all doubt, shook out ber sigs mainsail and set a big staystail outside @ jib. And then the race began in real earnest. Although the schooner spread a greater area of canvas, the cutter, sharper of build, lay a full halt-point closer to the wind, and, moreover, onree an immense spread of canvas for her It soon became evident to all that the cutter was slowly but surely gaining on the schooner, and Vernier ground bis teeth in impotent rage. His beautiful schooner was not the fastest boat afloat after all—and in consequence he must lose, must sacrifice his beautiful prize in the cabin. Fully determined to carry out his threat, he was about to go below, when all at once the drag of the bellying staysail snapped the cut- ter’s mast short off, where the bolts to which the halyard blocks were hooked went through, and dewn came the great mass of canvas across thé forefoot. Vernier laughed with joy. The chase was now over, he thought, as indeed it was—for the present—for still under full sail the ‘‘ Marguerite,” soon disappeared from the sight of those aboard the badly-crippled cutter, mily had been watchIng the chase through the cabin window, fearful yet hopeful of the re- sult. If the cutter overtook the schooner death was prontised her, and yet she hoped—boped it would overtake the schooner before Vernier could scuttle it. When the accident happened the cutter, Emily’s seart sunk, and then Vernier appeared, smiling, “The fates are against you,” he said. Emily kept her eyes on the rapidly-fading cutter, making no reply, and he continued: ‘It is useless fighting against fate, Emily— for I will take the privilege of calling you by your Christian name—you may as well submit gracefully as otherwise to the inevitable. “T am rich—mucb richer than the richest of ‘ the merchant princes! 1am young—not ugly, and I love you! ** You are here—in my power, but as safe as if at home, as far as coercion is concerned. ‘* But, I will cruise from shore to shore, over ocean and sea, until death do us part, before I will see you become the wife of another!” That was Vernier sober—at bis best under the influence of the nearest approach to pure affec- tion he had ever felt, What would he be when under the influence of rum, and elated at his escape%, 4, Emily shuddered at the thought, for Vernier now had a habit of getting drunk every nigbt, in which he was ably aided and abetted by Smith. : Vernier noted the sbudder, and with a sar- donic laugh, asked: ** Are you cold?” Emily made no reply and he continued: ‘¢- You will not be cold long. You will soon outgrow your fancy, and grow warm at the fire of my love.” ** Your'love!” cried Emily, scornfully, ‘‘ Do you—can you associate the name of love with such base, cowardly conduct as yours?” Vernier’s evil temper was aroused, and he flushed hotly at her words. ** Be careful!” he exclaimed, ‘‘ You are here in my power, to do with you asI choose, Do not try my patience too far, for I’m not pos- sessed of much,” Emily treated his warning with a look even more scornful than her last reply, and Vernier became enraged, Ber) ‘* Beware! Beware!” he cried, angrily. ‘I . have with me a man whom I own, and who has the power to unite us, I was willing to allow you all the time you wished, but you laugh at my kindness. Now if 1 do not change my mind you will be married to me this very night!” ‘¢ Never! Never! No minister of God would dare perform such a ceremony—a sacrilegious mockery!” Vernier seemed amused at Emily’s vehement protest, but still angry, replied: “Did I not tell youl owned him? Mockery or not, as you please, it is my will—my pleas- ure, now, that must be suited! You have re- jected my kindness, and can thank yourself if you feel my power.” Turning on his heel as he finished speaking, Vernier ascended to the deck, leaving Emily a prey to emotions easier imagined than de- scribed. ‘‘He is drinking heavily,” said Dora, when she entered with Emily’s dinner, Emily trembled. [¢ looked as though Vernier was nerving himself to go through the unholy ceremony he had threatened. ‘‘ Oh, what shall I do!” she cried, laying her hand on Dora’s arm. ‘* You will stay with me —help me? He has threatened to marry me to- night,” ‘*T will do what I can,” replied Dora, The afteraoon was pa in fear and trem- bling, and as uight approached anxiety grew apace. ‘‘Heis still drinking. Smith and a manin black are with him!” announced Dora, as she entered with Emily’s supper, the going for which was merely a pretense to ascertain what was transpiring in the outer cabin. Pale and anxious as Emily had been, she now became deathlike, and sinking on her knees be- side the lounge, with upturned, appealing face, prayed long and fervently for help. — Human aid there was none—Heaven alone could belp her. ; An hour elapsed, Emily pacing the floor, her fear now changed to nervous desperation, and clutching in her right hand the pistol sbe had found among the books, while Dora, excited and sympatbetic, stood watching her. Suddenly they beard the companionway-slide pushed back, and the voice of Vernier calling: “Come on, come on! We can’t wait all nigbt for you!” “He ig coming—be is drunk!” said Dora, as the sound of unsteady foowteps came from the eiag earee “He is calling to the minister!” fasped Emily, ‘‘ Merciful Father, protect me!’ CHAPTER XI, BOARDERS “cals Aut unconscious of Emily’s peril, Dare was expressing his delight over the disabling of the irate ship, ‘‘ Who fired? Hawkins?” asked the captain. ‘“‘T will ascertain, sin,” replied Dare, going forward. As be approached the bow gun, the lieutenant saw Surgeon Parkes bending over Hawkins, and looked his surprise, It wae certainly not the old gunner who had fired the splendid shot, ‘“‘Who fired that lucky shot—you, Decatur?” he asked. “Not I, sir—I couldn’t do it!” replied the im- petuous middy, adding: ‘‘ and it wasn’t a lucky shot, Mr. Dare; it was Laurie’s first attempt, but there was no luck about it.” ‘* Laurie’s?” exclaimed Dare, turning to the lad in pleased surprise. ‘‘ Laurie!” echoed the captain, who had fol- lowed Dare. Decatur saw the opportunity to fulfill his dead comrade’s wishes, and promptly replied: Yes, sir, Laurie didit! We were just com- ing from below after carrying down poor ‘ Lit- tle’ Winters—he’s dead—’ ‘‘ Winters dead!” interrupted the captain. “Yes, sir, He was hit witha grapeshot and only lived for a few minutes,” and brushing away a tear, Decatur related how Laurie came to fire the gun, ending with the request of the mie midshipman that Laurie should fill his place, A cheer arose from those within earshot when Decatur finished—the master gunner, Morris, being first to grasp Laurie’s hand. ‘**Nonsense—there was no luck about it! ‘lake the credit that’s due you, lad,” he said, in verry to a confused protest from Laurie. ‘T haven't the power to make a midshipman of you, Laurie,” said Captain Nicholson, ‘* but you can wear the clothes and act as one, for you “are as ood asappointed. Ill give you an act- ing order. i “Hurrah! The ‘old man’s’ a brick!” cried Decatur. (The captain of a ship is always the “6 man,” be be nineteen or ninety.) There was a general grin—and a very broad one at that—when Decatur gave vent to his feelings, for instead ofgoing aft when he turned away after speaking tO Laurie, the captain had stopped directly behind the excited middy, ‘* Mr, Decatur!” he said, trying to look and speak very sternly. ‘¢Good Lord!” gasped the middy, as he turned and saw the captain. . The tone, the words, and the dismay pictured in Decatur’s face, proved too much for even the captain, who ruined all discipline for the next five minutes by leading in the roar of laughter which followed. ** You are roving the truth of the old saw regarding listeners,” said the captain, as he walked away still smiling. Billy Boner, who, strangely enough, was busi- ly engaged below during the fight, was the last man to hear of Laurie’s promotion and was the least pleased with it, ‘* Just my luck!” he growled. ‘‘Now I s’pose he won’t talk t’ me, ’n’ him the on’y one that’d listen t? me at all.” But Billy was wrong. For, although he never succeeded in telling Laurie that weird tale of his experience in the Spanish Main, there was no change in the besring of the former cabin-boy toward either officers or seamen, Considering the battered condition of his or Captain Nicholson was content to call the battle drawn, and, after making some temporary re- pais in the harbor of Carthagena, put back for isbon, there anticipating further orders and a! tender with fresh stores, One week at Lisbon, which still bore traces of the terrible earthquake that signalized the year of the Declaration of American Independence and in which 30;000 lives were lost, sufficed to restock the frigate, and Captain Nicholson put to sea again. , “Td like to meet that corvette again,” said the captain, to Dare, as the frigate was again headed for the Straits of Gibraltar; but long be- foro they neared the gate to the Mediterranean a terrific gale from the southwest arose, and, not wishing to risk his newsparsin any way,the frigate was put about and run before the gale, keeping well out to sea, | ‘*T want to save them until we meet that cor- vette again in her own waters,” the captain ex- plained, to Dare, who would have preferred to test the new spars and rigging, But Nicholson was captain, and a captain is king aboard ship, so the United States continued to scud before the fierce sou’ wester, which lasted full thirty-six hours and then departed with a final blow which snapped the frigate’s main-— royal mast like a pipe-stem, Captain Nicholson was furious, and there was a sulphurous scent in the air in his vicinity for some time after, but that did not mend reer and, finding himself well northward, he decided. to run up to London for news and orders at headquarters, for our legation in London then was for European affairs. It was a pleasant evening in June when the United States drop anchor in the Thames River chose to a brig carrying American colors, From the moment it was first noticed the brig had excited the curiosity of those aboard the frigate—more especially that of Lieutenant Dare, who refused to believe what he saw through his glass until, as the anchor was dropped, the cheery voice of Captain King saluted him with: ‘You're in luck, Darreli soon as possible,” Then, Dare knew that neither his > nor his glass had deceived him, and that, although no ne on ‘deck, he had seen Captain Adams and milly 1 , Wondering how they came to be there, he borrowed the captain’s gig and, with Midship- man Laurie beside him in the stern-sheets, put off for ths brig. : “You need not wait, Laurie,” he Said, ‘ I've. arranged to remain aboard all night,” and the middy departed, having barely missed hearing hie would bave been decidedly interesting to m, “Ts not that your young protege?” asked Captain King, after they had exchanged greet- 8. ‘Yes. Iwas going to have him up for a few minutes, but to-morrow willdo. And now tell me, Harry, how does it come that Emily is here?” : ; ‘Oh! So you did see them? Well, come down to where they expect to surprise you, and you'll bear a strange story.” They descended to the cabin, where Dare Come aboard as |
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md Captain Adams and Emily impatiently Awaiting his arrival, and was quickly put in possession of the story of the abduction—of which the reader must now be fully informed, 80 we recur to the scene of trouble on Vernier’s vesse. . . CHAPTER XII. HOW THE LAMB ESCAPED THE WOLF. Wirt a firmness born of despotism, Emily awaited the entrance of Vernier, and when he appeared all hope of mercy vanished, He was drunk—very drunk, and greeted Emily with an ugly leer, as he stumbled into the cabin, ‘* B—been havin’ m’ last bach’lor supper,” be hiccupped, pausing at the entrance. Emily shrunk back in terrified disgust, and he es te toward her, saying: **Come, g—give’s a kiss” “Stand back! Back, you wretch, or I'll fire!” a Emily, presenting the pistol full at his h Vernier stopped and stared stupidly, too drunk to realize his danger if he advanced further, as he would had not another drunken idea pea his pres seud he said: bien ‘Ve roper, m’ dear, ver’ proper. us get mara fi 3 and staggering back to the companionway, called loudly. ‘*Come, Tony! Tony, you drunken fool, hurry up!” And Tony came—came the whole distance from the deck to the cabin floor at one step. The crash with which the ex-priesft—for he had taken orders—landed on the floor aroused Vernier, and finding his confederate was really unconscious and badly injured, he called some of the crew and bad him removed. **Too bad!” said Vernier with drunken gra- vity. ‘‘Too bad, but the marriage must be ad- journed. Good-night!” It was like a reprieve to the condemned on the scaffold, and Emily breathed a sigh of re- lief when she heard the slide close after Vernier, Next morning Dora went for Emily’s break- fast, which was eaten, when the former an- nounced that there could be no marriage for the present, owing to the fact that Tony, in addition to a badly-cut head, was also the possessor of a broken arm and a sprained ankle. This was confirmed by Vernier during the afternoon, : ‘*Our clergyman’s accident will prevent my marrying you for the present,” he said, ‘‘ but he will be all right soon—right enough to perform the ceremony, at any rate.” ‘*Take care! Be warned by what happened your tool,” said Emily, ‘It was God’s mercy to an unfortunate girl that caused him to fall.” Vernier laughed derisively. ‘*Not so,” he replied, ‘it was the gluttonous quantity of brandy that he drank.” During the next two days nothing was seen of Vernier, but on the third day he entered the cabin—drunk again, or nearly 80. f ‘* There’s goin’ t’ be a storm,” he said, ‘‘and after the storm a marriage. ‘‘ Tony’s able t* sit up now, and as he can’t come here, why we'll have t? go t’ him, Mountain ’n’ Mahomet, ye know.” Anything that relieved them of Vernier’s pres- ence was welcome, and the storm which now brought him back to the deck was hailed with ae to be changed to terror. Fitful gusts of wind began to whistle through the straining rigging, as the vessel’s motion in- creased with the rapidly-rising sea. The timbers creaked and groaned dismally, while louder and deeper rolled the thunder, following close upon vivid flashes of lightning that filled the cabin with an unearthly glare, and terrified its occu- nts, pepresently the rain came dashing down upon the glass skylight as though the floodgates of heaven were open, and the schooner was pitched and tossed about like a chip, while the angry seas washed over her as she lay hove to, i Both Emily and Dora were much frightened, and sat hand in-band during the entire night, but the scene on deck with the small spars and ‘‘singerbread” work smashing, the fore-hatch torn off, and all hands clinging to the life-lines, was still more terrifying. Yet the storm, during which she momentarily expected death, proved to be the means throug which Emily regained her liberty. , ‘*j was caught in the same storm,” said Cap- tain King, taking up the story, ‘‘and was run- ning before it when we sighted your cutter in distress, We rounded to and picked up uncle, and I then learned of Emily’s abduction. ‘* Being bound for this port, 1 was, of course, going clean out of my course, but, orders or no The Two Midshipmen, orders, we continued to run before the storm all night in the hopes of overhauling the scoundrel, and we did. ** Just after daybreak we sighted the schooner in a badly crippled condition and soon brought up alongside of her. Uncle Jobn (Captain Adams), took a well-armed boat’s-crew and boarded her—I couldn’t trust myself—but there was no trouble, the fellow, Vernier, and an old friend of yours, Smith, being in a drunken stupor—Emily and the colored girl were brought aboard the brig, and here we are,” Dare was not greatly surprised to learn of Smith’s part in the abduction—the rascal was capable of anything mean and dirty—but he had no suspicion that Vernier and his old enemy, Grace, were one and the same person. ‘* What became of them?” he asked, adding: mi should like to have a look at the other fel- ow, ‘Safe in irons in the forehold,” replied Cap- tain King. ‘‘ Come along.” Picking up a lantern, the captain led the way into the forehold, and, raising it above his head as they approached the starboard side, said: ‘* Here they are!” But they weren’t there, nor anywhere else in the hold, CHAPTER XIII, CAPTAIN LORRIS OR LAWRENCE, ‘* TREACHERY, by the Eternal!” cried Captain King, as, after a hasty search, be found that his prisoners were no longer in the hold. ‘* When did you last see them?” asked Dare, ** Yesterday—at noon.” ‘* Well, I imagine you are right. The irons are unlocked—not filed. Who had access to the keys—and to the prisoners?” “*There are but two keys,” replied the cap- tain, thoughtfully, ‘I’ve got one—” He was feeling in his pocket as he spoke, and stopped short with a look of aunoyance, but con- tinued, after a few moments: “Tt cannot be possible that I’ve lost it—and yet it 1nust be so, for I had it this very morning in this pocket.” | ‘*Don’t bother about it, Harry. It’s as well they are gone, ard you are lucky they didn’t scuttle the ship before leaving,” said Dare, quietly. — ‘ ‘ An inquiry elicited nothing, except that the steward and two of the sailors had seen the escaped prisoners while the latter were dispos- ing of their noonday meal, and the matter was dropped, Anxious to return to the Mediterranean, Cap- tain Nicholson remained at London just long enough to thoroughly examine, test, strengthen and repair his spurs and rigging, and, this done, announced one evening his intention of sailing next morning. ‘**So, of course, you will wish to spend this wen aboard the brig,” he continued, addressing are, The latter hastened to avail himself of the im- plied permission, and was soon aboard the brig, where, to his delight, he learned that Captain King’s mission to London had unexpectedly ended. Emily could now return home with her bro- ther instead of in a packet-ship, as until then it was feared she must, owing to the uncertain na- ture of Captain King’s business in London, and Dare was correspondingly happy, for ocean travel was neither very safe nor very pleasant at the end of the eighteenth century. A pleasant night aboard the brig, a tender parting in the early morning, and then back to his ship, where Darrel Dare, the lover of -Emily King, was instantly transformed into Lieuten- ant Dare, first officer of the frigate United States. : Down the river, out to sea, and along the coast, again the frigate went under a strong breeze, plunging through the roaring and com- plaining seas until one evening the Straits of Gibraltar were reached, Here, as the captain wished to have a look about before proceeding further, they lay to un- til morning, and then a strange saii was report- ed on the starboard bow. It was Dare himself who discovered the stranger, and, although she wds so far off that he could barely make her out through bis glass, he had an impression that she was in trouble, which being communicated to the captain, caused the frigate to be headed for the stran- ger. As they neared her, it was seen that her fore- mast was gone, and that she was otherwise in a disabled condition. : When the frigate was within a mile, the stranger threw out neutral colors, and hoisted a whiff, half-mast down, as a signal that she was in distress, : Dare ordered the frigate kept away, and, when alongside, lowered a boat and went him- self to see what assistance could be immediately rendered, With sailors, above all others, distress is suf- ficient to obtain assistance. Nation or country are at once sunk in that feeling of sympathy for misfortunes which at any moment may befall themselves, When Dare returned, he reported that the vessel was the Isle of France, bound for Calais; that she had been dismasted and badly crippled in a sudden squall, and that when her mast went over, one-half of her crew, who were on the fore-yard at the time, went with it and were drowned, . Want of men and material had prevented the rigging of an effective jury-mast, and this de- layed them so long that they were short of pro- visions and water. Two boats were immediately dispatched to the French ship—one containing the ship’s car- penter and a number of the crew to refit the vessel, and the other provisions and water sufficient to last them for the balance of the voyage. urie was in charge of the second boat, and was first to step on the deck of the stranger, weer he was received by the first mate, who Sa . - ‘*Captain Lorris has just gone below to rest. He has been on deck constantly since we got in- to trouble, but now his mind is easy.” Laurie had no particular message for the French captain, and stayed only long enough to get the provisions out of his boat. As he was about to return, Captain Lorris came on: deck, and gave him a message of thanks for Captain Nicholson, adding: “Tell your captain that we are just from Morccco, and that it is rumored—and I[ guess it is true—that the Bey of Algiers bas declared war against the United States.” “Yes, sir—thank you,” said the midshipman absently. He was not paying the slightest at- tention to the speaker—scarcely heard what was said. His eyes were riveted on Captain Lorris’s face, and when he finished speaking the latter began to stare at the middy, in turn, but aftera minute passed his hand across his brow, and turned away. ‘* Heis nearly always that way when he meets an American,” said the first mate, who had been quietly watching Laurie and the captain, add- ing: ** You will not forget about the war. Itis al- most positive that for once rumor is correct,” ‘*T will not forget,” replied Laurie, as he de- scended to his boat like one in a dream. Were it not for the name, and the fact that he was & slavein Algiers when last heard of, Laurie would have felt certain that this grizzly-bearded prematurely-aged, French captain who said ‘‘ guess,” was his own father. On returning to the frigate, the middy deliv- ered Captain Lorris’s message. } ‘* Just what_I though! !” exclaimed Captain Nicholson, ‘‘Now, Dare, we can prepare for. plenty of work. This vicinity will be ayeiacons | with the bey’s ships, and the war will be u as an excuse for attacking every kind of craft, no matter what country it ma haione to.” ‘You will make for the Mediterranean, I suppose?” ‘At once, for there it will be worst, Get under way the moment the other boat re- turns.” ¢ Among those sent to assist in refitting the French oe was Hawkins, the ex-Algerian slave- pirate, and he looked sorely puzzled on return- ing to the frigate, which made sail immediately, heading for the Straits, ‘*Mr, Laurie,” said Hawkins, at the first op- - portunity, ‘‘ you had charge of the provisions sent the Frenchman?’ “ Yes—why?” ‘Did ye notice anythin’ odd—familiar-like *bout the captain? Did ye hear his name?” ‘‘ Yes,” replied Lourie, answering the second question—‘' His name is Lorris.” — ‘* More like t’ be Lawrence!” cried Hawkins excitedly. ‘‘I got ore good look at him as we passed under the storm windows, and if he ain’t my old captain I'll eat me hat!” CHAPTER XIV. LAURIE DISTINGUISHES HIMSELF, Ir was just after supper, when Hawkins made = startling assertion recorded in the last chap- er. The frigate was sweeping along under full sail toward the Mediterranean, while the French * - 4 *
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Sees, ae t nS ee -” TS i pit eR EY i aie ae 2A SES 5 ~Pa' “aa = 5 > ahd on Ee, RSS eae = as uss ‘AY ¥. _® Jmots an hour, | 10 ship, bearing away to her destination, was al- ready hull down on the horizon, *“T don’t know—I cannot understand it,” re- plied the middy dreamily. ‘‘If he is my father, why is his name Lorris? Why— _ And yet the feeling that came over me when I met him!” ‘* And why shouldn't ye feel queer—meetin’ yer father after so many years?” Lieutenant Dare came along just then, and, onthe impulse of the moment, Laurie told him of the French captain, his feeling regarding him, and Hawkins’s assertion that he was Captain Lawrence, **T cannot understand the change in the name,” said Dare, thoughtfully, ‘‘but I am inclined to think Hawkins is right. Your own feelings are the surest indication of that.” ** And now he’s gone from me again!” ‘* Not at all, Laurie, not at all. We will stop at Calais, and can easily trace him and learn his history there. Don’t feel at all put out, my lad, it’s all for the best.” With a friendly pat on the shoulder, Dare left them, and, not feeling inclined to talk, Laurie went below. He kept thinking, thinking, long into the night, and when he did sleep, remained uncon- scious for hours after the others turned out. Lieutenant Dare had told the captain of Laurie’s experience aboard tbe French ship, and when the latter failed to report, he said: ‘*Let the lad rest. He has probably been aie GE bees. himself all night.” Accordingly Laurie slept until awakened by the dull boom of a gun on the upper deck. Springing out of his berth, he dressed hastily and ascended to the deck, but, short as the time was, the roar of the guns was now continuous, and he rightly casted the frigate was in pursuit ofapirate. | It was Zora’s ship, The Shark, which had been discovered attacking an American mer- chantman. On the appearance of the frigate, the corvette hauled off, and when the merchant ship was reached she was two miles to the leeward, and increased the distance while the United States was ascertaining the condition of affairs aboard the American. . By this time, the pirate was fuliy four miles ahead, There was no time to be lost, and, crowding on every stitch of canvas, the frigate started in pursuit, But, although the wind gradually increased and was thus far in their favor, as they were first benefited by it, yet as the sun went down so did their hopes descend. At nightfall the pirate had increased her dis- tance to seven miles, The frigate pursued, Dare watching her through his night-glass until she could no longer be distinguished. Still their anxiety was so great that but few went to bed aboard the frigate that night. When the day broke the pirate was not to be discovered in any quarter of the horizon from the mast-head of the United States, y This was a bitter disappointment, and light, baffling winds during the whole of the next day made it more so, as they could neither con- tinue the pursuit nor return to the American ship. ~ The irate on boarding the American had seized two ladies—mother and daughter—and their maid, and the husband and father, Mr. Duncan, who had come aboard the frigate, was frantic. stat ry Nexf day about noon the horizon cleared to the northward, and a slight fog in that quarter ' -was cleared away by a strong breeze which rip- pled along the water. Dare, who was on deck, noticed that the direction of the wind was precisely the reverse of the little breeze for which the sails of the nr were trimmed, and the yards were im- mediately braced around te meet it, The gust was strong, and the frigate careened over to the sudden force of it, as the top-gallant sheets and halyards were let fly by order of Rogers, who was first officer of the watch, and then the fog, which had continued rather thick to leeward, began to clear aney. ; _As it did so, Mr. Duncan, who was standing. on the rter-deck, cried out: “Look! There is the pirate!” ’ One minute’s scrutiny of the hull of the vessel looming through the fog, about a quarter of a mile to the leeward of the United States, con- vinced Dare that Mr, Duncan was right. _ And it was, The pirate, who was not quick rig in trimming her sails, now laid in trons as sailors term it, heeling over to the blast,while the frigate was running free at the rate of six ._ The Two Midshipmen. Forgetting for the moment that he was first | frigate!” he cried, and before Zora could res | what had \been said, the brawny seaman had grasped her in his arms, and was carrying her . officer, and not captain, Dare cried: ‘* Starboard yonr helm! All hands to board! Ste-a-dy—so! Be smart, my lads, it’s the pirate! Port a little. She’s ours— be quick!” Within three minutes the frigate had run alongside the corvette, and when the collision took place Mr. Duncan stood beside Dare at the head of the men, bursting with impatience and desire for revenge. Then came thecry, ‘‘Boardersaway! Board- ers away!” as the vessels locked yard-arms, and Dare and Duncan led the men over the side. The boarders, led by Dare, poured over the bulwarks about midships and a desperate strug- gle ensued, the attacked party neither expect- ing, asking nor receiving quarter. It was blow for blow and death to one or both of every two combatants, vies, inch of the deck was disputed, and not one inch gained until it reeked with blood. The encouraging cries of Dare and Duncan were answered by Zora and her gigantic Arab first officer, which had due effect upon the now infuriated pirates, who rallied round them after the first surprise had passed away. So obstinate was the resistance, that little ground was gained even in the beginning, and when the pirates had recovered from their sur- prise at being boarded—they who were accus- tomed to board and not to be boarded—the issue became doubtful. \ The pirates fell, but only to raise their arms for one last blow before death claimed them, or, if the power were denied them, seized with their teeth upon their antagonists, in their dying agonies, Men fighting with such desperation—especial- ly where they have the ascendancy in numbers, are anything but easy to conquer, and soon the fight came to a standstill as far as advantage was concerned. Then Zora, in her scarlet Turkish trowsers and blue jacket, her long hair streaming down her back, flanked on either side by a gigantic Arab, began to press forward, | The boarders were now in danger of being boarded, Dare, Duncan, Rogers end Porter performed | pies suet in their endeavors to stem the tide of struggling came gna now setting toward the frigate, but inch by inc pressed backward. Side by side, Decatur and Laurie fought among the boarding-party—or rather on the edge of it, Fought with courage and judgment excelled by none of their comrades, as Captain Nicholson, standing on_ his quarter-deck watching the pro- gress of the battle, noted. . When the retreat toward the frigate began, Decatur and Laurie with a half-dozen men were driven forward, apart from the others, and brought up around the foremast, where Laurie almost fell over a long, heavy pivot-gun, and in recovering himself his hand touched it, It was cold—stone cold, ‘*Decatur!” he cried. ‘‘This gun is loaded! Can you keep them off for a minute?’ Decatur grasped the situation instantly. “Why, certainly, Laurie! There’s not more than a dozen here. Maxwell, bear a hand with Laurie!” Maxwell, the brawny captain of the maintop, jumped tothe middy’sside, The gun wasswung round, and brought to bear on the pirates now centered around Zora, ; "Out of the way, Decatur!” cried Laurie, and the frigate’s men jumped aside. Whether the gun was loaded with solid shot or grapeshot, Laurie, of course, did not know, It was more likely to be the former, but proved to be the latter, and at a distance of thirty feet the destruction was simply appalling. ** Now, lads, at them!” cried Laurie and De- catur simultaneously, and with a wild hurrah! the six men and two boys sprung aft among the pirates. Hurrah! h they were CHAPTER XV. CAPTURE AND ESCAPE OF ZORA, Aste from the fearful destruction it worked, the discharge of the pivot created a panic among the pirates, and when the little band of eight came cheering and slashing among them, the fight was practically at an end. he first man Decatur encountered was the bea Argb, and for the first time the flery Z gts used his pistol—and Zora’s first officer e . Laurie, on his part, crossed swords with Zora, herself, but had scarcely done so when the idea of making her prisoner flashed ac him, “Grab her, Maxwell! Take her abitard the vd { aboard the United States. ** Close up! Close up!” cried Dare, springin, to the support of the little band, as the men o the frigate opened, and Maxwell and his prize passed through. But the fight was over. Some escaped below, some fled aloft, and the balance were hacked to pieces, leaving the deck in possession of the Americans. Mr, Duncan rushed below to seek his wife and. daugbtor, and bursting open the cabin-door found \uem and the maid safe and wninjured. The United States lost ten killed, and twenty- seven wounded, in this bitterly-contested fight, but of the pirate crew of nearly two bundrea men only thirty remained uninjured—the point- blank discharge of grapeshot had killed and wounded more than the entire crew of the frigate! Many oddly proud looks were bestowed upon Laurie, Decatur and the rest of the little party as they returned to the frigate, but almost every man aboard ‘seemed to feel that the former in some way reflected credit upon him. From Billy Boner to Captain Nicholson every man-jack had something to say about the two boys—for Decatur was scarcely more than a boy —and the six men, At first, Maxwell received the lion’s share of attention, but it changed when the honest giant, growled: ‘Stow your gab! 1 never thought o' sich a thing—I only obeyed orders,” 5 ‘Whose orders?” asked Captain Nicholson, who, with the other officers, was paying close attention to what was going on among the men. | ‘*Mr. Laurie’s, sir! Him ’n’ Mr, Decatur kept them back, while I run off wud her.” Then, Decatur came to the front for killing the gigantic Arab after firing among the pirates, and then charging them, : ‘Don’t talk rot!” cried the fiery midship- man, ‘* Laurie discovered the gun! Laurie found it was loaded! Laurie fired it, and Laurie was among them as soon asI was! Now what had I to do with it?” And then Laurie became the hero of the fight, although Decatur could not get away from his share of glory Lf saying that ‘‘any one able to hold a pistol could killa giant.” Neither vessel was much injured, and Cap- tain Nicholson d: termined to take the corvette into the neutral port of Carthagena, which would give him time to think, for he was sorely uzzled ea, aes | the disposition to be made of ora, because of her sex. Had he not felt convinced that the captain of: the Isle of France was Laurie’s father, he would have offered her to the Bey of Algiers in ex- change for heey Lawrence, but it seemed‘cer- tain that the latter had in some way been re- leased from slavery, Accordingly, putting a prize crew aboard the corvette, Captain Nicholson set sail. for Car- thagena, much pleased over the victory, but not at all pleased with Dare for taking the fight off his hands, ! A born fighter himself, he would haye much preferred being in the thick of the fight, to wit- nessing it. For twenty-four hours Laurie was confined to his berth with a bad cut in the right leg, re- ceived from a knife in the hands of a dying pi- rate. i When he limped up on deck, he was praised and petted until Lieutenant Porter, who was of- ficer of the watch, interfered ‘‘ to prevent them from turning the iad’s head,” and then he was. left to himself, Bs ar He had borrowed Lieutenant Dare’s glass, and shortly after beginning to use it, called to De- catur, who was passing: *‘ There’s something away off to the windward —see if you can make it out.” Springing into the rigging, Decatur climbed aloft, and surveyed the obj ct had indicated. _ “IT think it’s a wreck,” he said, on returning to the deck, and reported the discovery to Mr, Porter, who, in turn, reported it to the cap- tain, with th uickly aurie are, *¢ Yes—she’s dangerous, drifting about as she is,” assented the captain, adding: \ e result that the frigate bore . down on what proved to be a dismantled wreck. ‘* Better blow her up, or burn her,” suggested — ‘‘Suppose you go aboard and do it? She looks likes an American, and you may learp something of her while on board scam be af
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The Two Midshipmen. 11. A boat was lowered aud Dare boarded the wreck, where he remained quitea long time (the captain thought) before firing it. ‘Did you learn anything about her?” asked the captain, when he returned. ‘‘ Yes—it’s the Isle of France—or what’s left of her!” replied Dare, in a low tone. ‘““The Isle of France! What can have hap- pened to her?” ‘‘She was. boarded by pirates yesterday. I was justin time to learn that from one of the crew, who was dying when I found him, and died before I left. ** He told me that Captain l..7Tis and two or three others had been carried off by the pi- rates,” ‘* Algerians undoubtedly |” exclaimed the cap- tain. ‘‘And they must have passed us during the night,” ** Yes—I’m sorry for Laurie,” said Dare. ‘*Tt is rather rough,” admitted the captain, **but don’t say anything about it. When we et into Carthagena, I’ll send word by some of the English ships to the head devil (he meant - the bey) that we'll trade this limb of his, Zora, for Captain Lawrence, If Hawkins is any- where near right about her influence, there will be no trouble about making the exchange.” When the frigate entered port, almost the first act performed by Captain Nicholson was to seek an English captain, by whom he sent the roposition to exchange Zora for Captain orris, and then learned for the first time that ’ the Bey of Algiers had formally declared war against the United States, As this meant an immediate return to patrol the Mediterranean, the men were not allowed the usual liberty to go ashore, and there were at least two officers who did not appear to appreci- ste their privilege to do so. These two were Laurie and Decatur, and both being prime favorites with the crew, were warmly welcomed, when, at the suggestion of the la that they should ‘‘ go hear some good lies,” they entered the crowded forecastle, Billy Boner had the ear of the company, and was gravely telling that he knew of a certain fiend in the North Seas that was always seen, on the eve of a hurricane, astride the bowsprit of ships containing his friends. He descri this sociable fiend as wearing a conical hat tipped with furs, with blue flames pouring out of his hawse-boles, and there he rode on the bowsprit, leading the vessel to destruction, while waving in triumph a trident surmounted by a human skull, illuminated with red fire. This story was received with grave approval, and Billy was encouraged to attempt to relate his Spanish Main experience. ‘‘ And now, mates,” he began, “I'd like t’ in yea yarn about my ’sperience when I wuz awh in the Spanish—” At this point the usual fusilade of boots, pan- nikins, chunks of wood and a rich and varied collection of oaths and other articles were being~ hurled at Billy’s head, when a piercing cry rung through the. ship, followed a moment later by a loud splash and the cry, ‘‘ Man overboard!” “Dollars: to doughnuts it’s a woman over- board!” exclaimed Decatur, as he darted out of the forecastle. He wasright. Zora was gone, and her guard lay dead on the floor with a dagger stuck in his -_ CHAPTER XVI, A RESCUE AND A CAPTURE, * §xarcu for Zora proved useless, She had many friends and cee in the city, and when Captain Nicholson learned of her escape he abandoned all hope of recapturing her. ‘It’s unfortunate—very unfortunate, but we must sail to-morrow morning,” he said to Dare, adding: ms We must rely on the ransom now,” “Tt's our only hope, sir, and a rather slim one,” returned the lieutenant, ‘* Have you noti- . fied the English captain?” “‘No—I will do so at once.” A messenger was sent accordingly, and the sudden change in the position of affairs commu- nicated to the captain of the English ship. Early next morning the United States weighed anchor and started back for the Mediterranean, leaving the corvette at Lisbon, for want of a crew to man her, 3 As she was ina neutral port, Captain Nichol- son felt no anxiety about leaving the prize with | ‘only half a dozen men to take care of her, since no attempt could be made to recapture. f After cruising about for a week, a square- _ rigged ship, flying the Union Jack, was sighted one morning renehg| toward the frigate, and, an hour later Captai Nicholson had the pleas- * ure of greeting Captain Broke—his English friend, and afterward, in 1813, determined toe. ‘“*How did you manage to ship a crew for your prize?” asked Captain Broke, during the conversation, ‘*Ship a crew! ‘* Well, she sailed two days after you. representative must have sold her,” ‘I suppose so,” replied Captain Nicholson, thoughtfully, and much more surprised than he pretended to be, The English ship was bound for Algiers (the town), and parted company with tne trigate after passing Morocco, Along toward evening a strong gale sprung up, and Captain Nicholson, who had been run- ning rather close, inshore for such a dangerous coast, was about to stand further out to sea, when he remembered a safe anchorage only a mile away, and, still playing the English mer- chantman, ran the frigate into a little cove, where he dropped anchor in safety. It was a part of the coast which Captain Nicholson knew to be almost uninhabited, and he was therefore surprised to learn next morn- ing that a large body of. men were approaching the cove. Laurie and Decatur, at the mast-head of the frigate surveying the country, had espied the approaching natives and, when nearer, the latter descended to say he thought there were prison- ers among them. ‘‘Slavers, by Jove!” exclaimed Dare, after a glance through his glass, - “They are either expecting a ship here, or are coming to seize this,” said the captain, and turning called Hawkins, “Yes, sir, they often ship slaves from here ‘round t’ Tripoli,” said Hawkins, in reply to the captain’s question. ; ‘I’m sure they haven’t seen us—althouch they may have got word that a ship is here,” inter- rupted Dare. “Very well. Take fifty men and a couple howitzers ashore, Mr, Dare. We must try to rescue the slaves. If they attack us, as 1 ex- ag you can take them in the rear,” and turn- ng to I did not—couldn’t get ’em,” Your Decatur, who had been aloft again, the captain asked: “How many, Mr. Decatur?” ‘** About two hundred slavers, and one hundred slaves, sir.” ‘Good. You can go with Mr. Dare.” “‘ May I go, too, sir?’ asked Laurie. ‘* Yes, I suppose you can,” bore the captain, hesitatingly, half hoping that Captain Lawrence would be found among the prisoners. The shore of the cove was well wooded, so there was no danger of the character of the fri- gate being discovered until the Algerians were close at hand, and a watch from the mast-head kept them posted as to the manner and locality of the approaching ty. About balf a mile from the cove the slavers halted for a few minutes, and then leaving the captives with half of their number to form a camp, the balance came on toward the frigate, Dare was notified of this, and instructed to attack the camp as soon as the guns of the ship began firing. he frigate was lying temptingly close to the shore, and, with only a few men on deck, looked an easy prize to the hundred or more Arabs, Turks and Moors who soon appeared. **That’s some of Haji Ben Hassuna’s band,” said Hawkins, as the party halted, and stared in surprise at the frigate. With a confidence inspired by the closed ports. and the small number of men on deck, the slavers surveyed the frigate in a very leisurely manner, and then proceeded to pitch a camp under the trees along shore, “They're waiting until night,” said Rogers. ‘“They know we'll have to warp her out, and they are too well armei—they think—for us to try it.” ‘Hawkins, you ask them what they want,” said Captain Nicholson. ; Mawkins did so, and this called attention to their presence aboard the frigate, which excited great surprise among the Algerians, “They won’t answer, sir,” said’) Hawkins. “They want t’ know what I’m doing here, ’n’ what country ship she is.” — ‘* Tell ’em it’s none of their business! If they ain't out of there in two minutes, we'll open fire on them, . “We'll have to fire a gun anyhow,” con- tinued the captain, ‘“‘to notify Mr. Dare to be- The captain’s threat was greeted with de- risive laughter, which quickly changed to cries of alarm and surprise as the big gun in the stern was stripped and turned on them, and a num-. a re of shots were fired by the gunner—Haw- sins. “Fire! Fire!” The slavers were already scuttling away among the trees when the captain shouted this impatient order, but Hawkins was only waiting to get them bunched, and when he did fire, the grapeshot caught and swept off almost one- quarter of them. Morris, from the bow, fired a moment after, and then, mingled with the cries of the wound- ed and dying pirates, came the report of Dare’s uns. We There go the howitzers!" cried Rogers. ‘*-Yes, and those fellows must have heard them as well as us! Take a couple of boats and go to their assistance, Mr. Porter! Fire a. broadside, Mr. Rogers, to cover the boats,” The captain’s orders were quickly obeyed, and the boats’ crews, having landed without loss or trouble, proceeded toward the pirate camp. Lieutenant Dare’s party had been ready for some time, awaiting the signal, and, when it came, both howitzers were fired almost instant- ly. ‘* Now, lads, forward!” cried Dare, With a wild cheer the men dashed at the sur- prised pirates, carrying the camp almost with- out a show of resistance—the pirates flying to. their horses and camels at the first volley. They recovered, however, and came c ing back after a few minutes, but by this time many of the captives were released and joined in the fight which followed, rendering numbers: , about equal, although the pirates had the ad- vantage of being mounted. For a few minutes the fighting was fast ‘and furious, and then the slavers were joined by their comrades driven back from the cove, This gave them the ascendency in numbers, and Dare’s party began to fall back—the guns saving them from being compelled to fly, but the well-mounted, well-armed natives seemed to have them at their mercy, when suddenly Lieu- ‘tenant Porter appeared on the scene at the head of fifty men. Laurie, directing the fire of the two guns, waited long eno’ to fire one, and then joined in the combined charge of Porter’s and Dare’s- men, Again the tide of battle changed, and this time victory remained with the Americans, the slavers unable to withstand their impetuous: charge, which, led by Dare, Porter, Decatur and Laurie—the two last named in the van— caused them to break and fly toward the Great Desert of the Sahara. Almost all the captives. were released, but when the pursuit was over, it was found the slavers had carried off at least one vrisoner—Laurie. + CHAPTER XVII. LAURIE AS A PRISONER. It was not until Decatur returned that Laurie's: absence was noticed. _ “ Where is Laurie?” asked Dare, leaving the crowd of joyful ex-prisoners, who were en- deavoring to thank him. : Blood was streaming down Decatur’s face, one arm hung limp and useless, and his clothes: were torn and dirty. He bore all the signs of a desperate fight, and the lieutenant dreaded the reply. ‘Laurie, poor Laurie, was carried off on a camel.” The midshipman, who was staggering about like a drunken man,\could say no more, Pursuit was useless, and with a sad heart the lieutenant gave the order to return, having placed Decatur on a litter formed of branches and boughs of the near-by trees, f ; Captain Nicholson was as furious as Dare, and the otbers were sad, and savagely demanded why pursuit was not ordered, Was his blue-eyed, golden-haired middy, the pride of the frigate, and its hero on at least one occasion, to be carried off likea dog, and with- out an effort to save him? The lieutenant, standing beside Decatur’s cot,. listened sadly and patiently to the captain’s out- burst, but the half-conscious middy defended his: comrades, ‘* Six died before Laurie was taken,” he said, protesting against the injustice to the dead. _ Outside of the six men who died in the vain attempt to save Laurie, the American loss was. _ slight, and the hundred released prisoners. crowded the ship uncomfortably. From the latter it was learned that a slave ship was expected at the cove, and Captain. Nicholson determined to await ber arrival, “We may make some important captures to: i>
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12 The Two Midshipmen. offer in exchange for Laurie,” he said, in talk- ing it over with Dare, and the latter gladiy agreed with him. Meantime Laurie was being hurried toward the Great Desert, lying half-conscious across the back of a camel—the fleet-footed ‘‘ Ship of the Desert.” Hour after hour passed until evening came, . and then, and only then, the remnant of the slaver band halted—they had suffered too severely to do so before, Decatur’s six had not died in vain—their on- slaught alone, aside from the loss the slavers had already suffered, struck terror into the hearts of their opponents. ‘* Little” Winters was the child of wealth arents, and every inch of his uniform (whic zaurie was wearing) was decorated with all the gold lace it was capable of bearing. This at- ‘tracted the attention of the slavers, who deter- amined to capture him, butit also insured good treatment of the captive—he must be ‘ some- a hen the slavers halted, and Laurie had fully recovered his senses, he found that he was not alone in his misfortune, although treated far differently to the others, for the first person his eyes fell upon was Maxwell, Although very weak, the powerful physique of the captain of the maintop made the slavers take him prisoner, for his wounds were all superficial, and he would prove a valuable slave. Maxwell, however, was not the-only one Lau- rie was interested in—Captain Lorris was there, also, and between what he knew and what he felt, the young midshipman was deeply con- cerned about the latter, Like Laurie, Captain Lorris was treated with great respect, being one whose capture the Al- gerians knew would please the bey very much, For these two favored captives, and two others who were not rescued—the father being restrained by his inability to free his child—the supper was really fine. The best of fatted lamb, with dates and dried hl and a dish of ‘‘ boseen,” composed the meal, This last-mentioned dish was a preparation of flour and water kneaded into a paste, which half-baked, was broken into small pieces and kneaded again with new milk, oil and salt, and garnished with ‘‘ kakeed,” or mutton, dried and salted in the highest manner. Laurie was more than a little surprised that Captain Lorris did not appear to recognize him, although he passed his hand across his brow in the same odd fashion as at their first meeting. From the others—Mr. Burnham and bis daughter—Laurie learned that they were cap- tured in the Moaditerranean three weeks pre- viously, but from Captain Lorris he could learn nothing—to him everything appeared to be a blank. During the night Laurie managed to get close to Maxwell, and warned the latter to look out for the French captain, at the same time inform- ing him of what he had learned from Hawkins, . and felt himself, , “T see, sir; and I’ll be on hand whenever it’s wanted,” said Maxwell, who fairly adored Laurie, ‘‘I can’t say as I see any great resem- blance, but he does look at you now and then very queer.” Next morning, still keeping well inland, the rty hurried on to the City of Algiers, which, ‘Laurie learned from Mr. Burnham, was now their destination, and‘on the evening of the fifth day the journey was finished. he five prisoners were confined in the same apartment—a large room in a strong stone building overlooking the sea, and nosooner were ae. alone than Laurie and Maxwell began to look about them, ‘“We must get away before morning,” said the middy, as though doing so was an every-day _ occurrence. “Yes,” assented Maxwell, in the same confi- dent tone, Their late arrival rendered it necessary to place the prisoners in a building never before used for the purpose, and, except that the usual nis stationed at the front and sides of the alf-fortress knew of their capture and confine- ment there, they were practically unguarded, but were, of course, unaware of that. Laurie still retained his dirk and pistol—. neither were visible—and Maxwell his sheath- knife, but the iron door was too strong for either of these. f ‘* How far down is it to the water?” asked Laurie, still poking at the lock with his dirk, Maxwell started toward the small, open win- dow, but it was unnecessary, %, \ ' jo Z . / EAE cobAad CORBA oa Rareee Ay 17h Cavin ee & ashes io aE > PN EPR Ne ay Can eeek ARE OEREY. Oy SORES ES —_—————— pssst — ** Just forty feet,” replied Captain Lorris. This exhibition cf knowledge and interest startled every one, ‘* You know the place, sir?” inquired Laurie. “Oh, yes. It’s just forty feet. But why not overpower the slave who will bring you your supper? He will be here soon, and won’t be missed for some time.” At tbat moment footsteps ‘were heard ap- proaching along the stone corridor, and raising his hand warningly, Captain Lorris continued: .“* You (to Maxwell) stand behind the door. When heenters shut the doorand lock it. I will catch him in front and prevent any outcry, Then ycu can all escape—I will show you how,” All noticed that he did not appear to include himself, and the midshipman, especially, de- termined not toleave the man whom he believed to be his fatber, but there was no time for com- ment—the key was already grating in the lock, and the next moment, a well-armeu Arab, not a slave, entered bearing a rude wooden tray. CHAPTER XVIII. LAURIE’S ESCAPE, As the Arab entered the room, Maxwell struck bim a powerful blow, knocking him into the arms of «'‘aptain Lorris, and sending tue tray to the floor, on which it fell with an alarm- ing! y loud crash, ° tunned by Maxwell’s terrific blow, the Arub was quickly choked into quietness, and then bound and gagged while the door was being locked and opened again to ascertain if the noise had been noticed, “It’s all right—come along,” said Lorris, after listening a few moments, and, after reliev- ing the unconscious Arab of his saber and a pair of a led the way toward the rear of the building. ‘*He’s getting mixed up—the rear faces on the sea,” whispered Mr. Burnham to Laurie, but even as he spoke Captain Lorris proved him mistaken. Using one of the bunch of keys taken from the Arab, he opened a smali door at the rear of the corridor, revealing a dimly-lighted spiral stairway, down which he led the way. ‘* Now, it is likely there are several guards at this corner, and we may have to fight,” said the captain on reaching the bottom, at the same time pointing to a door in the side of the build- ing. R But won’t that bring ’em all down on us?” objected Maxwell. ‘*We can’t help that,” replied the captain coolly. ‘*‘ Outside that door lies a boat, anda hunured yards away a ship—English, I think. You cao hardiy go back now—it would be dangerous.” **Oh, no! Let us go ahead by all means,” exclaimed Mr, Burnham, who was an English subject, ‘““How many?” asked Maxweil, nodding t0- ward the door. ‘* Perhaps two—perhaps ten, it’s impossible to say. They gather there on account of the sea breeze, and—” ) A tremendous pounding noise above inter- rupted the captain, and, seizing Laurie and Jen- nie Burnham, he dragged them. back into the shadow of the stairway. The others followed quickly, reaching the friendly shadow just as the door was thrown open, and a half-dozen guards dashed up-stairs, ‘¢Take her in your arms, and turn to the right when you get out. Then run for the boat!” Releasing his grasp on Jennie and Laurie as he spoke, the captain stepped softly to the part- ly-open door, outside of which dark forms could be seen passing to and fro. ‘‘There are four or tive between us and the boat,” he whispered, ‘‘ Now get ready to make a dash, and don’t use pistols!” A moment of anxious silence followed, evemy nerve strung to the highest tension, and then came the signal: ** Quick now!” and out they dashed among the Seed who at first mistook them for their com- rades, Maxwell’s hard fist and the captain’s saber disposed of two of the guards before they real- ized their mistake, and by that time Mr. Burn- ham had gained the boat—although, owing to the intense darkness, he almost missed it, The guards now fired on the fleeing prisoners, and though harmlessly, the noise brought others, ben proved nearly fatal to their hopes of es- ape when, as Laurie neared the boat, he stum- bled and fell, ee a r = rs “ay We Pa JEUNE SANGCRINO, Dew ealen ne or ee eee oe pind tie Wheeling around on the instant, Captain Lor- - and Maxwell struck 1izht and left to protect im. ‘*Run,; Laurie! Run!” cried the latter as he knocked down the nearest guard and wrested his gun from him. “I'm ready —‘come -along!” responded the middy, The boat was only,a few feet away, but there were now fully adozen guards upon the two'men struggling toward it, so instead of running, Lau- - rie went to their assistance, His sudden appearance, and the fall of one of their number before his pistol, and the wound- ing of another with his dirk, created a diversion in favor of his friends. It was only momentary, but that sufficed to enable them to gain the boat and push off, amid the shots and cries of their baffled pur- suers, : Captain Lorris was last to enter, and almost upset the boat, plunging head-foremost into the bow, where he lay quite still and, for a short time, unnoticed, while the boat was being pulled out of range. ; “¢ Captain Lorris isn't burt, is he?’ asked Lau- rie fron the stern-sheets, r ‘* Don’t know! Waita bit!” puffed Maxwell, bending to the oars, % Lights were flashing along shore, and in their late prison, the dull boom of a gun rolled over the water, and i fired at random, the shot whistled unpleasantly close, so the. midshipman was compelled to curb bis i were far from safe. .. ‘‘ Where can that ship be lying?” exclaimed Mr. Burnham, impatiently, ‘‘Never mind that—stick t’ yer oars! i puttin’ off after us,” said Maxweil, ad- mpatience, for they ing: : ‘‘Itd be as well t’ have yer’pistols loaded, Mr, Laurie.” ’ ; ‘Nothing to load with,” replied fhe middy, ruefully, as he looked backward and saw several boats advancing, their location indicated by the lanterns in the bows. The outlook was anytbing but promising. It looked very much like a dangerous game of hide and seek until daylight, and then re- capture, ‘‘T wish he would come to!” growled Mr. Burnham. : ‘*Hush! Listen!” said Laurie. His attention had been attracted by some ons singing—singing as if he intended to attract at- tention, and never was sweeter music than con- veyed in the jolly words: ‘* English sailors have a knack, Haul away, yo ho. boys. Of hauling aown a Frenchman’s jack, ’Gainst any odds you know, boys.”’ { **Tt’s the English ship!” exclaimed Mr. Burn- am, ‘* Silence!” commanded the boy in the stern- sheets, as he brought the boat around, and the tone was so stern and manly that Maxwell grinned all the way to the ship’s side, Fe Ship ahoy!” hailed the middy, ina guarded ne. ‘* All right, my hearty!” replied the singer, in asimilar tone, and a rope ladder was thrown over the side. < “Up with you!” said Laurie, and Maxwell, carrying the little girl, led the way, while the midshipman, waiting until the others were safe on deck, hung in the ladder and gave the boata parting kick that sent it adrifr, _ Captain Broke was agreeably surprised to find Laurie’s party aboard when he awoke next morning—especially as it included Captain Lorris, who bad recovered sufficiently to take care of himself on reaching the English ship. “‘There’s a big boat-load of Arabs coming out!” announced the third cfficer, while the cap- tain and his guests were at breakfast. “Very well. You know bow to receive them,” said Captain Broke, calmly, adding: . TP necessary send for me.” A few minutes later a midshipman came to say the captain.was wanted on deck, .‘*Don’t be at all alarmed,” he said, as he fin- ished his coffee, ‘* I'll send these fellows off pretty lively.” For a few minutes after nothing was heard below. Then the commander of the Algerians was heard angrily demanding to be allowed to search the ship, and threatening: ‘Tf not, the guns of the fort will be opened on you, the moment we leave!” “Indeed! And suppose you are not allowed to leave?” was the cool rejoinder, followed bv: “If that boat moves a foot, Mr Barton. blow _l it out of the water! Hang your fort, sir!” Px
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CHAPTER XIX. DEATH OF ZORA. CAPTAIN BROKE’S order staggered the Al- gerian, and he began to draw in his horns, finally deciding that the British captain’s word would be sufficient, but the latter was not to be caught-so easily. ‘** No, sir,” he said, firmly, ‘‘ here you are, and here you stay until I’m ‘under way. I have good reason to susp‘ct that you are detaining English subjects, and I’m going down the coast to confirm it. If it’s true, your town will pay dearly for it.” The Algerian commander protested against ‘the outrage,” as he termed it, and decared the raise anchor. ** Very good. Then, if you have any prayers to say, you’d better begin immediately,” said Captain Broke, with a grim smile, and turning | to his first officer, continued: ‘*Get under way at once, Mr. Barton, Kee that boat covered until we’re outside, and stan ready to blow this gentleman from the muzzle of a gun the instant the fort opens fire!” That ended the matter, the Algerian being al- lowed, after eating a goodly portion of humble pie, to send his boat ashore with a message that the esca prisoners were not aboard the ship, and that he was going outside the harbor ashort distance. This done, Captain Broke got his ship under way, and when out of range of the fort, allowed bis unwilling passenger to depart. ‘**Crowd on every rag, Mr. Barton—tkat fel- low means mischief,” said the captain, watching the departing Algerians, He had heard the story of the fight at the pte i hog now ons ong 2 oe “* get rid of hree of his passengers ore the erians could overtake him, . " As Captain Broke did not go the full and did not hear all that occurred at the cove subsequent to Laurie’s capture, we will take up the story a; at that point. Late in the afternoon of the second day after the middy’s capture, a vessel was sighted bear- ing toward the cove. The slaver without a doubt!” exclaimed Captain Nicholson. ‘‘Can you make her out, Mr. Dare” ** Not guite, sir, but she looks familiar even now. Sr from aloft a little later, Dare ** ’m almost positive it’s the corvette we left in Carthagena, but fifteen minutes will decide the question.” And it did, provi the vessel anchored o every one had vette, The Shark. Dare correct, for when the cove just after sunset her as Zora’s cor- “ How the deuce did she get her back?” was the question Captain Nicholson asked himself, while the other officers wondered: 4* Why don’t she run in?” The last question was answered by Hawkins who said: ‘*She won’t come in till she’s signaled?” ‘Then she’s not likely to send in a boat—to- night at any rate?” asked Dare, ‘Not likely, air. Listen to them!” The pirates were in a jolly mood, and were al- read singin and carousing. ‘ They’ve been in luck—all hands’ll be three sheets in the wind before three bells,” comment- ed Hawkins, ‘* And, therefore, three bells (balf-past nine) will be a good time to visit them,” thought the lieutenant as he went to make the suggestion to the captain. ** Good idea!” exclaimed Captain Nicholson. “You may command the party instead of my- self, though it’s scarcely fair to give you the ers chance at her—but it’s your idea, so go abea ** Better take all the men you can get into the fouroats,” he continued, as Dare thanked him and turned away to make preparations for boarding the corvette. As Hawkins predicted, the noise aboard ‘“‘ The Shark” began to cease about nine o’clock and died away entirely before half- nine, at which time four boats commanded by Dare, Porter, Rogers and Decatur left the frigate. Proceeding cautiously and with muffled oars all pained the side of the corvette unnoticed and as Dare climbed up the forechains, he could not help wondering at the lack of ordinary caution shown by the pirates, ‘* Why. Zora, herself, must have joined in the drunken hurrah!” he muttered as he crossed the bulwarks, and saw the pirates strewn about the deck in every direction. The Two Midshipmen, | beast sprung at the old gunner. But he was mistaken, as a sharp report, ania | sharper pain in the right shoulder, taught Lim almost as the thought crossed his mind. Zora had come on deck in time to see the first of the boarders, and the report of her pistol fol- lowed by her shrill, piercing orders, quickly | aroused the pirates toa sense of their danger, and when Decatur, with his sword between his teeth, climbed over the side amidships—simul- taneously with Rogers on the opposite side—the parties headed by Dare and Porter were being | ; driven back over the bows. The appearance of Rogers’s and Decatur’s men caused a panic, and after a short, but des- | | perate conflict, the pirates gave up the struggle fort would open fire as soon as the ship began to | —some fleeing aloft, some below, but most of those, who could, jumped over the side of the ship. Toward the end of the fight, Zora came face to face with Hawkins, and with a cry like a wild Her saber struck bim once but missed his head, and then, | as it was raised again, a stray bullet from the rear entered her side, and the career of the favorite and fiercest commander of the Bey of Algiers was ended—amid vaths and maledic- tions that startled the most hardened of her hearers. But few prisoners were taken, those who fled aloft or below thinking it as well to die there as swinging from a yard-arm, while those who jum over the side escaped into the interior. ** Short, sharp and successful, eh?’ contmented Captain Nick olson, when Dare reported the cap- ture of the corvette. He was growing a little jealous of his gallant first officer, although the latter’s success was all to oad captain’s credit—at home; and when Dare replied: E Not particularly ere. We lIcst only one man outright. Decatur, Hawkins and myself are the worst off of the balance,” he saw his rtunity and invited the young lieutenant to the cabin. ‘*- You have been woundsd and are to be mar- ried soon, I believef” he said, when they were ted. Dare nodded assent. He saw what was com- ing. & Well, ae be anxious to get back then, of course, 10 I shall put you in command of the prize and send her home. We've aa about seventy-five or a hundred of those fellows we rescued the other day, and with one or two offi- cers they'll make a fair crew.” * Thank gy) ou are threugh a pore on the surgeon,” said Dare very coolly, and rising from his seat left the babi.” < Next morning Captain Nicholson informed Dare that Midshipman Decatur, and Hawkins, the gunner, were the only men he could spare from the crew of the frigate. “Three cripples and seventy-five foreign sea- men!” commented the lieutenant, ** Ob, I'll see you safe into the Western Ocean,” returned the captain, adding: ‘You may as well start back to-day. We'll runalong the coast until night and then back to the Atlantic. Between this and noon you can get things sbip-shape.” Just before noon, while lying hove to, exchang- ing men, @ was reported dead ahead and bearing down toward them, but as the English colors, which they socn made out, were con- firmed by her hull, spars and general appear- ance, the work.was continued, The ara, 4 proved to be Captain Broke’s ship, which hove to and lowered a boat when close to the frigate. ‘*Why, that’s a—that looks remarkably like Laurie and—yss, Maxwell, too!” exclaimed Cap- tain Nicholson who was watching those getting into the boat. “ And the French captain’s with them!” added 7" vag as the boat came dashing toward m. Waiting barely long encugh to get rid of the passengers, the boat hurried back to the English ship, which immediately got under way again and stood off on her course along the coast with- out any sign of recognition. | **Mr, Rogers,” he continued, *‘ get under way as soon as the prize ia ready. ‘* Laurie, come with me—you, too, if | please, Captain Lorris. Maxwell! | Mr, Dare with Mr. Decatur.” | As Captain Lorris and Laurie started aft | after the speaker, they met Hawkins, who ut- tered something like an Indian war-whoop, and, | grasping the hand of the first-named, ex- claimed: | ~**Capn Lawrence—by the Eternal!” | _** Lawrence, Lawrence,” repeated the other, | dreamily. ‘*Sail ho!” came the hail from the mast-head at this juncture. ‘“*Two frigates and a brig, sir, coming up fast, under full sail!” reported the lookout a minute after. ‘* Pirates!” muttered the captain, hiv then, to the third officer, who had gone aloft: ‘Can ye make them out, Mr. Porter?” “Fairly well, sir. They’re pirates, if looks go for anything, and they’re showing the Bey’s Beat to quarters! Laurie, take a boat and twenty-five men aboard the corvette!” ordered the captain. you Report to CHAPTER XX, FATHER AND SON, MIDSHIPMAN DECATUR, with Maxwell, Haw- kins and the balance of the prize-crew had already returned to the corvette, and through ieutenant Dare learned of Laurie’s escape with Captain Lorris, The latter, og wks by the middy, had crowded into the t, and when Dare saw hint —while warmly greeting Laurie—standing close by, his eyes full of painful inquiry, he stepped forward, saying: ** Allow me to congratulate you on your es- cape, Lawrence—és 'y as it includ- “itera See asa al ogi wrence son!” repea © cap’ ‘ with his yt still fixed on Laurie, Seeing them together, the lieutenant had sup- their relationship was now an established act, but there was no time for explanation. ‘ We're all ready, sir, and the frigate’s signal- ing to get under way,” said Decatur, approach- ing the penne nie th v got under way at once, the three pirates being now but two miles awa re soming up rapidly, bringing the wind wi m. The corvette and the frigate were both very fast sailers, but the gery craft being first benefited by the wind, kept gaining—the brig more than the others, until only a half-mile astern, when she n firing. ‘We must get of that fellow—we can soon hold our own with the others,” said Lieu- tenant Dare, and calling to Haw ordered bim to ye to the pirate’s fire. Up to this time the brig had treated both ves- sels impartially, but now her fire was concen- trated on the corvette, Hawkins had fired several times, doing con- siderable execution a the pirates crowding the deck of the brig, when a shot struck the mainmast of The Shark, splintering it and wounding several of those around it—- among them Captain Lorris, who was severely burt about the head. In return for this, Morris, on the frigate, and Hawkins, on the corvette, end made mat- ters more thaneven, The two guns were fired at almost the same moment, and the beavy shot struck the brig’s foremast in the same spot with- in a second of each other. The first blow caused the mast to totter, and the second sent it over side, carrying with it the maintopmast. This put an end to the annoying pursuit of the brig, and were it not for the foreign seamen forming the crew of the corvette, Captain Nicholson would have turned back, but the breeze was freshening, they more than a their own, and he could not afford to risk his twice-won prize, 80 they held on their course to the Atlantic, drawing steadily away from the ‘‘ What the dickens does that mean?’ asked | pirates. Captain Nicholson, after warmly welcoming Laurie and his companions. “This will explain, sir,” said Laurie, handin & message from Captain Broke, and tearing open he read: “The Algerians are in pursuit of your friends, and I must not be seen near you until they have had a | chance to search my ship. Your mid explain the rest. ‘* Better get the rest of once, Mr, Decatur,” said pontie will ROKE,”’ ee men aboard at ptain Nicholson, after reading the message. / lay him up for some / verdict, When Captain Lorris fell, Laurie sprung for- ward, and finding him unconscious, had him roe tee aon aneiniaal d but it “It’s not erous, bu ma time, was the surgeon’s ding: “This is the second crack his skull has re- ceived within a few days—isn’t it?” ** Yes—he fell head-foremost into the boat we sopped in,” : ‘So I understand, and he looked dazed, like a man who had forgotten something. This may
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pag ae a ria aed el s ee OL a RT gna a omen at The Two Midshipmen. set him right again—oil the works of his memory ” ‘‘Do you really think so, Mr, Parkes?’ asked Laurie, eagerly. ‘**T have known of such cases, and would not be at all surprised if he recovered with a full recollection of what is now a blank to him. A shock caused it, ard a shock is liable to cure it. And so it proved, but it was long after the frigate and corvette parted company on the broad Atlantic, before Captain Lorris, or rather Lawrence, fully recovered tis senses. During the week he was delirious, the cap- tain’s ravings about Alice (his wife), and James (Laurie), removed all doubt as to his identity, and the surgeon warned Laurie against reveal- ing himself to his father until the latter was strong enough to bear the shock which would be occasioned by the intelligence of his wife’s . decease. ‘* How long before we make New York?” ask- ed Captain Lawrence, the first day he was able to get on deck. “ About a week, if we meet no dirty weather,” replied Dare, who, with Decatur, had just fin- ished taking an observation, For two nights Captain Lawrence had spent considerable time in Dare’s cabin conversing about recent as well as long-past events, treat- ing the latter, however, as if of much the same date as the former. Memory was returning, however, even if slow- ly, for when Hawkins passed and purposely avoided meeting the eyes of his former captain, the latter asked: ** Who is that man, captain?” With well-assumed carelessness Dare replied: **He’s our gunner. We got him from an Al- gerian pirate called ‘Red Hand’—I think. His name is Hawkins,” ‘* Hawkins! Red Hand!” exclaimed Captain Lawrence, ‘‘I know ¢hose names, and one of them only too‘well.” For the balance of the day the captain appear- ed to be buried in thought, and when evenin came, Dare thought it safe, as well asa g opportunity, to introduce Laurie, who, fearin he could not control himself, had kept out o the way. Accordingly, after supper, Dare said: ‘I’ve never had an ar to hear the story of your éscape, captain, but if you'll come up and smoke a cigar, ll have Maxwell or our midshipman tell it.” - To this Captain Lawrence assented even eagerly. Maxwell was called and an to relate the story which necessarily included reference to Laurie, “* Laurie!” repeated Captain Lawrence, start- ing up in surprise, and ng in tones so loud that the middy passing at the moment heard him and answered: ** Yes, sir,” ‘**Who is -he? Where did he come from?” continued the captain, as the middy came to- ward them. ‘Wait until we go below and I'll tell you— I'd rather not say anything now,” replied Dare, in a low tone, and then to Laurie ‘Sit down for a few minutes. Maxwell may forget some of his story.” axwell began his story again, but, though an attentive listener, the captain’s interest seemed centered in Laurie, and the moment it was finished, he said: ** Shall we go below, Mr, Dare?” “Remain here for a few minutes,” said the lieutenant to Laurie, as he followed the captain. The ‘*‘ few minutes” lengtened into a half-hour before Dare reappeared. “You can go below now, Laurie,” he said, “he knows all, and wants you,” “ My son!” ** Father!” were the mutual exciamations, as Laurie entered the cabin, anc what followed is best Jeft to the imagination. CHAPTER XXI, THE SECOND ABDUCTION PLANNED. THE corvette was now aepialy, nearing New York, and, to explain what happened when it arrived there, it is necessary to go back to the escape of Vernierand Smith from the brig while in port at London, ite escape was made through one of the stew- ard’s assistants, who had found Captain King’s ‘toy to the irons and was unable to resist Ver- mier'’s gold. Once safe in the city, a watch was set on the ve, bh | | brig until it sailed for home, and then they fol- | lowed in a fast packet. ‘* Tl] get her again before three months, and | this time I won’t be so careful as to the means,” said Vernier, ashe and Smith watched the de- | parture of the brig. He had plenty of money, and on arriving in New York purchased the fastest vessel he could find, which, at Smith’s suggestion, was anchor- ed on the Long Island shore, ‘‘ Now you find as big and as hard a crew as } you can get,” said Vernier, ‘‘ Me,” replied Smith, in a hoarse whisper, And while Smith was engaged in this conge- and, in obedience to a significant gesture of the ; nial task, he began watching Emily King—her | slave, began to remove his heavy boots. He habits, the hours she was wandering about the | was very slow about it—his heart was not in the ounds, sometimes alone, but generally with | job, and the negro grew impatient, Tice: King or Captain Adams, when apt to be ‘* You must hurry—Captain Adams may wake alone in the house,how many servants slept there | up!” he said, adding: at night and where located. ‘* He gets up and smokes every night at one The result of all his investigation was either | o’clock.” ; to seize Emily when on the grounds at the first “What! Is he here?” exclaimed Smith, opportunity, or to forcibly enter the house and ‘*H-u-sh! Yes, he came to-night, Hurry!” seize her there as soon as Smith had completed ‘“T knowed they’d be some hitch—I knowed the crew. it wuz onlucky!” muttered Smith as he stole up- ‘* I’ve got twenty-five men,” said Smith,at the | stairs after the negro. end of a week. ‘‘There—in there!” whispered the negro ‘“‘Twenty-five! Why, man, I want a hun-| pointing to a partly-open door on the secon dred and twenty-five!—more, if you can get | floor, and then pointing to another opposite: them !” ‘* Captain Adams in there,” ‘* To manage a schooner!” pasped Smith, Softly pushing the door until open to the full- ‘‘Manage! Manage the devil! I’m going to | est extent, Smith entered the room, It was have some of the plums to be picked out of this | quite dark and he could barely discern the form Algerian war. on the bed as he moved cautiously toward it. * Now get to work uick, for we must begin |, Suddenly there was a crash, a howl of pain, our part of the war right here, Assoon as you | and then scream after scream rung through the have the men, we'll arrange to seize.the girl and | house, drawing back, now, and the party started for Captain King’s residence. They traveled slowly, loitering and talking by the way, for twelve o’clock was the hour the negro was tu admit them, but at length the time and place were reached, the door was opened and five of thirteen entered. ‘**Keep quiet!” cautioned the slave, leading the way into the parlor, where a single candle burned, ** Who goes up?” he continued. ‘ ‘ sail.” Smith’s naked toes had struck against a low A week after the foregoing conversation, Ver- stool, knocking it over and causing him to utter nier learned «from a servant of the Kings that | an involuntary cry, and alarming the occupant the captain was going to Philadelphia and would | of the bed. be absent ten days. With an angry oath, he sprung to the bedside, “How many men have you got?” he asked | seized her an dashed down-stairs just as Cap- Smith that night. tain Adams, pistol in hand, flung open his door ‘* Seventy-five or eighty.” and dashed after him. ‘* Well, that will have to do for the present. As Smith reached the top of the first stairway, Get them aboard early to-morrow forenoon, and | he could see a struggle h Sr on below and hesi- pick out a dozen of the best—or worst to assist | tated for a moment. hen he saw a knife flash you in seizing this girl.” in the dim candle-light, heard a of agony ‘* Assist me?” echoed Smith, in surprise. and a voice calling to him to hurry, and he “Yes, you! Theydlon’t know you, and if you | obeyed, but the prcapne vg ema enabled Cap- post your men properly you will excite no sus- | tain Adams to catch up to him, picion, King goes to Philadelphia to-morrow ‘Ha, youscoundrel! I’ve got you!” cried the morning, and she must be in my hands before | captain, striking at him with his pistol, while that old fool Adams comes to replace bim. Smith, holding is unconscious burden in one ‘Tf she appears on the grounds alone during | arm, turned and drew his knife—using the girl the day, watch your chance to seize her and | aga shield, bring her aboard Shouts, shots and cries of every kind began to “Tf there is no chance during the day, it | ring through the house at the same moment, must be done to-morrow night. Ihave promised liberty and gold to a slave servant, who will admit you to the house and take you to her room—the rest will be an easy matter for a dozen of you.” CHAPTER XXII. ARRIVAL OF ‘* THE SHARK,” Smith did not like the work laid out for him, | IT was about nine o’clock at night when “‘ The and showed it by saying: Shark” dropped anchor in New York Bay—too ‘This woman business is ugly work, captain | late to go home, Dare decided, although madly —it’s not lucky, I tell ye. You've got a fine impatient to see Emily, ship an’ fine crew. ‘There’s fortunes t’ be made Captain Lawrence, Laurie and Decatur were in this here war. Why don’t ye drop the woman | on deck and he sought to change the current of t an’—” ‘ bis thoughts by pec oy Mad th them, but, at “Shut up, you fool! I wouldn’t give up that | the end of an hour, the lieutenant had only rl—if it were only for revenge on Dare—for | succeeded in attracting the attention of the all the gold in the world! others. « Now, no more of your chat—when I need ‘‘ What’s wrong, Mr. Dare?” asked the ¢ap- advice, 1’ll ask for it. Do as I tell you, and see | tain. Pa that you doit well. It will pay you as you per- ‘*T hardly know. An hour ago I was anxious form your work,” to go ashore—more, I must admit, to meet Miss Smith was shaking his head ominously, mut- | King, (to whom I am tobe married next month) tering, ‘‘ It’s onlucky, sure, it’s onlucky,” and, | than her brother. Now, I am restless and un- after a searching, suspicious glance, Vernier | easy about her, as though some danger were continued ; hanging over her—but, of course, it’s ali non- ‘*Come, no croaking! Here’sa hundred dol- | sense,” lwrs, and when you put her on board, you shall But, notwithstanding the last words, Dare’s have five hundred more.” laugh was an uneasy one. Smith’s god was the almighty dollar. His ‘T don’t know about that,” returned the ca forebodings vanished as the money appeared, | tain, very gravely, ‘‘such a feeling as you de- and grasping it eagerly, he said: scribe has invariably proved a warning, a fore- * All right, sir. Thank ye—I guess I’d better | runner, of danger to me or mine.’ go and look up the men ri want.” Ard then the conversation drifted off to the ‘¢ Yes, better have everything ready.” supernatural for a while—dreams, warnings Next morning, after Captain King’s depar- | signs, ghosts, death-knocks, all were discussed ery seongh Ate ho unusual pon go of a in until Dare’s uneasiness, became very ounging abou e cious, and only y- | marked. ; incisor ‘ounds ret as the King Home- ge Toe I can’t stand it longer. I must do stead, and remained there all day. something!” he exclaimed, jumping up. When night came, these men gathered at the| It wasa beautiful night, though warm, and river, where one said; king one of the boats when Laurie wip gers ‘‘Tt!sino use waitin’, boys, Scatter about ’n’| and rowing up the river, the lieutenant jumped meet here at ‘leven, sure—then we'll try the | at the idea. house,” “The very-thing! Who'll go?’ he said. At eleven o’clock thirteen men met at the Laurie and Decatur both expressed a wish to ae and when one remarked the number, | accompany him, but Captain Lawrence did not Smith’s forebodings returned. care to go. ‘*Tt’s onlucky!” he muttered, but there wasno| ‘All right; take command of the ship, and re
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enti don’t be alarmed if we are slow about return- ing,” said Dare, and turning to Laurie, con- tinued. ** We'll need two of the men, and as you will be the only officer in the gig, I think you should see about getting them.” Laurie smiled and sought Maxwell, now boat- swain, who, with Hawkins, gladly volunteered to make up the four oars, and within a few min- utes the gig was gliding up the river. On and on they rowed, until at length, when at the foot of the roadway running by the King homestead, Laurie noticed a vessel making reparations to sail, and they stopped to look at er. ‘“* Rather queer time to go to sea,” commented Decatur. ‘* Big crew, too, for her size,” said Dare, ad- jam ‘* What the deuce is she sending the boat or? The schooner was lowering a gig, and then to the surprise of the watchers lowered a big yawl, which two men in the smaller boat took in tow, “That’s a strange trick, considering the oe of men she carries,” said Decatur, ad- ing: ett looks as if she might be sending ashore for men, If it was stores both boats would b> manned,” “They are heading for this point,” warned Laurie, and with all his uneasiness returning with increased strength, Dare ordered the gig further inshore. “Better carry it up under those trees,” he continued, coming to a sudden determination, as they neared the shore, and beaching the gig, Maxwell and Hawkins carried it to the spot where Dare’s brother had been hidden when Mrs. Lawrence was struck down by Smith. On came the two boats until they landed at the same spot, where, after drawing them up, the men walked toward the watchers, who drew back among the trees, ‘‘ It must be nearly time for them to’ b Me said one, throwing himself on the grass, not ten feet away from where Dare was concealed. “‘ Yes—but why a dozen men should be needed to carry off one woman, I’m blest if I can see!” responded the other, “Nor I, though these Kings have a lot of niggers. But Smith’s a cowardly—” are waited to hear no more, ‘It must be nearly time for them to begin!” and pointing _ the oars, led the way in silence to the roadway. “Now, for God’s sake, run!” he cried, and ‘every One was touched by the agonized fear and anxiety expressed in his tones. ‘ ’ It was a full half-mile to the house—would they be in time? As he asked himself the ques- 1, Dare urged his companions to increased sp . Half a minute after the house came into view, and, by the bright moonlight, he could see sev- eral persons in front of it, ‘Thank God! We're in time!” he panted. They were about two hundred yards from the ‘house, and running at full speed, when he spoke, and all breathed a cp of relief, which was fol- lowed almostinstantly by exclamations of alarm, as a piercing shriek broke the stillness of the night, Another and another followed, then came a ery of mortal agony, and then, as they dashed among the pirates, pistol-shots were heard, Until very close to them, the men posted out- side the house mistook Dare’s vige deed or some of their comrades, but on seeing their mistake fired several shots, : t The three officers had their pistols, and Lau- Tie, who alone was unincumbered with an oar, fired back as the two parties came together bringing down a man with each shot. |. This, and the terrific onslaught of Decatur, Maxwell and Hawkins, who used the clubs as quarter-staves, sent Vernier’s ruffians flying toward the river— _ ‘those who were able. Meantime Dare had dashed into the house, He flung the oar away and drew a pistol as he entered, firing and striking right and left among those blocking the entrance. At his heels came Laurie with reloaded pistols, and twice their echo was the death-knell of one of the ruffians, with whom Dare was now battling like an en- raged lion. hen came Decatur, Maxwell and Hawkins, and the fight below was quickly ended. Gr were heard above, and Dare dashed u the stairs, at the top of which lay two men an ‘a woman—one of the men groaning. | “Lights! Lights!” shouted Dare, and appar- cerns his voice, the frighten od ser- van ht them, bis br 4 “Oh, ‘Darrell Are you hurt?” and as Dare surprise, a hand was laid on his arm. The Two Midshipmen. _It was Emily! and behind ber was Mrs. King. Who was the woman lying on the floor? There was no time for questioning—the others were coming up-stairs, and he said: “ Retire to your room, Emily! I willlet you know as soon as we have things settled.” Then, as the servants came with the lights, he directed them to care for the unconscious wo- man, ‘“*T knowed it wuz onlucky an’ now I’m done for,” groaned one of the prostrate men. It was Smith, and beside him lay the old sea- dog, Captain Adams—just recovering conscious- ness. The captain had fired as Smith turned on him; the heavy bullet crashed through the ruffian’s neck, and, as he said, he was *‘ done for,” As he fell, he struck the captain, and the latter went down also, striking his head hard against the wall, Smith looked bitterly at Dare, but when Lau- rie ve red he was startled, Addressing the lieutenant, he said: ** You’ve got the best of it again, but we came near gettin’ her. I told Vernier it wuz onlucky Po he'll get away, curse him, while I’m done or ‘* Vernier!” exclaimed Dare, **'Yes—he’s lyin’ in the river waitin’ for the girl—your girl—Miss King.” **But it was this woman you were carrying off—not Miss King,” said Dare, pointing to the woman just recovering consciousness, This drew attention to her, and, with a cry of wondering joy, Laurie threw himself beside the white-robed figure, crying: ** Mother! Mother !” ; All stared in amazement—even Smith, who muttered: ** How did she get here?” But he never knew, for while staring at his last victim his head fell back— his crime-stained career was ended. CHAPTER XXtil, CONCLUSION, THERE was a joyful reunion between the Law- rences—father, mother and son. Mrs, Lawrence explained how Smith had procured for her the as of housekeeper in a wealthy family. hat his object was was never known, but that he had one was plain from the fact that he told . Lawrence that Laurie bad run away. He had got her to accompany Vernier on the pretense that Laurie was aboard the Margue- rite, and when she recovered consciousness she returned and told her story to Captain Adams, and there she had remained ever since, . The night of the attempted abduction, Emily feeling nervous, had slept with Mrs. King, and Emily’s room being the coolest and the night warm, Mrs. Lawrence hed occupied it, Julius, the footman, had been killed, but no one else was hurt, that is, none of Dare’s friends but, as Smith predicted, Vernier was warned and got away. When Captain King returned, he was sur- prised and delighted to meet Dare, as was Ca) tain Stewart, who accompanied him, and h were amazed at the story of the attempted ab- duction, Then a double marriage was arranged—Cap- tain Stewart and Miss Tudor, and Lieutenant cere and Emily, being united at the same 8. On the same day arrived Laurie’s appoint- ment as midshipman and an order to report to Commodore Preble for immediate service. A. similar order arrived for Decatur, and both. were happy over the prospect of again serving together, . ‘Now, Laurie, we'll have a chance to pay back our Algerian friends,” cried the fiery middy, little dreaming of the undying fame he was to achieve at Tripoli; and his younger, but later-to-become-famous companion, joyfully agreed with him. ; But when, a month later, an order to the same effect arrived for Lieutenant Dare, it was not so joyfully received, although it did not_ take him from New York for another month, and then both were reconciled to the parting. And so we must leave them—al] those gallant souls literally panting for the glory to be won in the Second Algerian Expedition. THE END, | it. » mn 4 je | kbgetshe te Ehret 5 s . Beadles Half-Dime Library. BY BUCKSKIN SAM (Major Sam. 8, Hall.) 284 Old Rocky's ** Boyees; or, Benito, the Horse-Breaker 246 Ginnt George; or, The Ang’) of the Range. 275 Arizona Jack ¢ or, Giant George’s Pard. 297 The Tarantula of Taos; or, Giant George’s Revenge, 807 The Strange Pard ; or, Little Ben’s Death Hunt. 818 Ker-whoop, Ker-whoo?; or, The Tarantula of Taos. B27 Creeping Cat, the Caddo; or, The Red and White Pards, 882 Frio Fred; or, The Tonkaway’s Trust. $44 The Fighting Trio; or, Rattlesnake, the Tonkaway. 849 Wtld Wolf: or, Big-Foot Wallace to the Front. 857 The Ranch Raiders; or, The Siege of Fort Pargatory. 864 Snap-Shot, the Boy Kanger. 875 Chiota, the Creek; or, The Three Thunderbolts. 881 Bandera Bill; or. Frio Frank to the Front. 892 Romeo and the Reds}; or, The Beleaguered Ranch. 404 Little Lariat; or, Pecan Pete’s Big Rampage. 414 The Daisy from Denver. 427 The Three Trailers; or, Old Rocky on the Rampage, 442 Bluff Bill; or, The Lynx of the Leona. 455 Little Lone Star: or, The Belle of the Cibolo, 684 Cache Carl, the Chico Giart. BY GEORGE C, JENKS. 485 Git Thar Owney the Unknown. 492 Git Thar Owney’s Pledge. 518 The Demon Doctor. 581 Double-Curve Dan, the Pitcher Detective. 59S Flute, the Singer Detective, 608 The Pitcher Detective’« Fotl; or, Dan’s Double Play. 616 The Ocean Detectives or. The Last Cruise of the Black Bear. 681 The Pitcher Detective’s Toughest Tussel. 786 Larry, the Thoroughbred; or, Beaten on Every Side. BY COL. A. F. HOLT, 899 Black Buckekin; or, The Masked Men of Death Canyon. 419 Kenneth, the Knife-King. 485 Littie Lightfoot, the Pilot of the Woods. 828 The Dandy sport; or, The King Pin Conspirater. 678 Ralph Renwood, the Lightning Express Detective. 691 Headlight Harry’s Haul. {27 Meadlight Harry’s Siren. BY J, C. COWDRICK, 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery. __ 869 Shasta, the Gold King; or, For Seven Yeara Dead. 420 The Detective’s Apprentice; or, A Boy Without a Name. 424 Cibuta Jonny; or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout. 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude. 490 Broadway By the Bootblack Bravo, 506 Redlight Ral the Prince of the Road, 514 Broadway Billy’« Boodle. 524 The Engineer Detective. 586 Broadway Billy’s ‘ Difikilty.” 548 Mart, the Night Express Detective. 557 Broadway Billy’s Peath Racket. pth Air-Line sip eign by ogy nin ag hp ariancioiet & e Chimney Spy; or, Broadway y’s Surprise-Party, 592 The Boy Pinkerton. 605 William © Broadway; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning. 615 Fighting Harry the Chief of Chained Cyclone. 628 Broadway Billy’s Dead Act. 640 Barebsek Beth, the Centaur of the»Circle. 647 Typewrltér Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward, 659 Moonlight Morgan, the *‘ Pizenest ’ Man of Ante Bac. ' 9 Broadway Billy Abroad. 675 Broadway Billy’s Beast; or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. 687 Broadway Billy in Clover. : 696 Broadway Billy In Texas, 708 Broadway Billy’« Brand. 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe. 720 Broadway Billy’s Full Hand, 785 Broadway Billy’s Business. 788 Broadway Billy’s Curious Case. MISCELLANEOUS AUTHORS, 4 The Wild-Horse Munters. By Capt, Mayne Rela and Frederick Whittaker, 9 Adventures of Baron Munchausen 12 Gulliver’s Travels. By Dean Swift. 14 Aladdin; or, The Wonderful Lamp. ‘ 16 Robinson Crusoe. (27 Illustrations.) 18 Sindbad the Sailor. His Seven Voyages, 22 i Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinsom Crusoe. By Jum wis. 88 The Ocean Bloodhound; or, The Red Pirates of the Carribees. By 8S, W. Pierce. 86 The Boy Olown; or, The Arena Queen. By F S. Finn. BS Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack. 61 The Boy Rifles: or, The Underground Camp. By A. C. Tron. 95 The Rival Rovers; or, The Freebooters of the Missiesippt. By Lieut.-Col. Hazeltine, 98 Robin Mood, the Outlawed Earl; or, The Merry Men of Greens wood. ut 4 ges Gildersleeve. 105 Old Rube, the Hunter; or, The Crow Captive. By Captain c Hamilton Holmes. 112 The Mad Hunter; or, ‘Ihe Cave of Death. By Burton Saxe. 124 Tippy, the Texan; or, The Young Champion. By Goorge epson. 128 The Young Privateer; or, The Pirate's Stronghcid. By Marry Cavendish. 148 Sharp Sam; or, The Adventures ot a Friendless Boy, By J, Alexander Patten. 227 Dusky Darrell, Trapper: or, The Green Ranger-of the Yel- lowstone. By Edward Emerson. . 261 Fergus Fearnaught the New York Boy. By @. L. Aikens 266 Kilib’ar, the Guide; %r, Davy Crockett’s Crooked Trail. : By Ensign ©, D. Warren. 298 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid ot the Cliff. By Captain Comstock. 817 Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadville. By Lien- tenant Alfred Thorne. 4 828 The Sky Detectives or, A Boy’s Fight for Life and Honofe By Maior Mickey Free. 850 Red Rolph, she aren Rover; or, The Brother’s Re- venge, e un . 865 Baltimore Ben the Bootblack Detective. By A, P, Morrine 874 Gold-Duat Tom: or, Ben’s Doubla Match. By @ H, Morse. 876 California Joe’s Firat Tratl. By Colonel) Thomas Hoyer Monstery. Billy Bombshell, the Cliff Climber. By F.S. Winthrop. 418 4%5 The Black Dr: By John S Warner. an y er. 484 Comanche Pic d His Three Invincibles, By ging Usa Aawbay thabies, ty thats mide valine win . BBS Ariel. the Attlee. By Dovid Deen 58 with Waters, - th Le gg a eaitide: ie . etective’a ! ig Ri Maverick Mone, the Arizona Devoctivys on The Wisard of Urkos Pass. By Will Lisenbee.
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Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. BY 1 Deadwood Deadwood Dead wood 5 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 7 Deadwoud Deadwood 7 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood § Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dead wood Deadwood Gold-Dust Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood 405 Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dead wood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Deadwood Dead wood Deadwooa Deadwood Deadwood Deadw Veadweooa Dead wood 539 Deadwood 514 Deadwood 54Y Deadwooa 554 Deadweod 561 Deadwood 567 Deadw 572 Deadwood 578 Deadwood 584 Deadweooe 590 Deadwood 595 Deadwood 600 Deadwood 606 Deadwood 612 Deadwood 618 Deadwood 624 Deadwood I 680 Deadwood Dick 686 Dendwood 642 Deadwood 710 Deadwood 7T84 Deadwood 740 Deadwood Dick z ood Dick, BEADLE’S« H ALF- DIME« LIBRARY. EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novela. Dick, the Prince ot the Road, Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. Dick in Disguise; or, BuffaJy Ben Dick in His Castle. Dick’s Bonanzay or, The Phantom Miner. Dick tn Danger; or, Omana Ol. Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar. Dick on Deck; or, Calamity ¢ ine, the Heroine Dick’s Last Act: or, Cordurvy Charlie. Dick in Leadville. Dick’s Deviee; or, The Double Cross Sign. Dick as Detective. Dick’sa Double; or, The Gorgon’s Gulch Ghost. Dick’s Home Base; or, Blonde Bill. Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party. Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road. Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel, Dick’s Doom: or, Calamity Jane’s Adventure, Dick’s Dead cal. Pick’sa Death-Plant. Dtek. A Romance of Roughs and Tougha, Dick’s Divide; or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. Dick’s Death Trail. Dick’« Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon, Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats Dick’s Ducata;y or, Days in the Diggings. Diek Sentenced; or, ‘Ihe Terrible Vendetta. Dick’sa Claim, Dick in Dead City. Dick’s Diamonds. Dick in New Yorks or, A “ Cute Case.” Diek’s Duat; or, The Chained Hand. Dick, Jr.3 or, The Crimson Crescent Sign, Dick, Jr.'s, Dettunce. Dick, Jr6 Full Hand. Dick, J Big Round-Up. Dick, J Racket at Claim 10, Dick, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill, Dick, Dog Detective. Diek, Jr., In Deadwood. Jr a, Compact. Jr.'s, Inheritance, dre Dt nee. Jr.’*, Deliverance, dr.’s Protegee, are oe Deck r.’a, Danger Ducka, Jr.’s, Death Hunt, Jr., in Texas. dr., the Wild West Vidocg Jr., on Hia Mettle. Jr., In Gotham, Jr., In Boston, Jr., in Philadelphia. Jr., in Chicago. Jr., Afloat. Jr.. in Denver. Jr.'s, Decree, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin, dr., at Coney Island. Jr.'s, Leadville Lay, Jr., in Detroit. Jr., in Cincinnati. Jdr., in Nevada. dr., in No Man’s Land. Jr., After the Queer. Jr.. tu Buffalo. Jr.’«, Chase Across the Continent Jr., Among the Smugglers. Diek, Jr.’a, Lnsuronce Case, Dick, Jr., Back in the Mines. Bick, dr., tn Durango; or, “ Gathered In.” Jr.a, Discovery; or, Found a Fortune, Jr.’s, Dazzle. Jr. Jrs, Still Wunt. » drs, Dominoes. Jr.'s, Diagulae, Jr.’«, Double Deal, c«, Jr.’s, Deathwatch, r.’#, Doublet. Dick, Jr.’«, Deathblow. Dick, Jr.’s, Desperate Strait. Jr.’«, Lone Hand, Jr«, Defeat, Jr.’«, Resurreetion. | hes Dark Days. TUT Deadwood Dick, Jr’.«, Desperate Venture, 802 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Diamond Dice, 807 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Royal Flush, 812 Deadwood Dick, dr.’a, Mead-off. 816 Deadwood — Jr.’«, Rival. 822 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’s, Boom, 828 Deadwood 884 Dead Dick, Jr.’*, Scoop. ood Dick, Jr.’a, Proxy. w 840 Deadwood 858 Deadwood 87 w 882 Deadwood 891 adwo 916 Deadwood ood Dick 868 Deadwood Dick 0 ood 876 Deadwood Dick od Dick, ood Dick, ood Dick, Dick, Jr’s, Clutch, Dick, Jr.’s, High Horse. Jr., at Devils Guich. Dick, Jr.’«, Reath-Hole Hustle.’ Jr.’« Bombshell. Jr., in Mexico. Jr's, Decoy Duck. Jr., in Silver Pocket. Jrs, Dead-Sure Game, Jr’a, Double Drive. drs, Trade-Mark. Dick, Jr., at be belo Dick, Jr.’s Double-Decker. nA Dick, ec Dick, BY LIEUT. A. K, SIMS. 589 Tom-Cat and Pard; or, The Dead Set at Silver City, 622 Tom-Cat’s Triad; or, The Affair at Tombstone. 681 Tom Cat’s Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective, 688 Tom-Cat’s Triumph; or, Black Dan’s Great Combine. 546 Captain Os char ibe haparral Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike 568 The Dandy of odge; or, Rustling for Millions. 576 The Stlver Sport; or, Josh Peppermint’s Jubilee. 5688 Saffron Sol, the Hana, the Dutch Vidocq; or, Hot Times at Round-Up Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. 601 Happ 611 Bildnd 646 Cowboy G 657 Warbling Man With a Shadow id, the Cattle-Range Detective. William the Mountain Mountebank, 665 Jolly J cremiaky the Plains Detective, 676 Signal Sa 689 Billy 699 Simpl the “~ the yps e Sim, the ae agg 1 ¥? or, e Myste abe Buster, or, For Bi of Two Lives, iz Stakes. The Meamertat Sport? or, The Mystified Detective. 7BR Toltec Tom, the Mad Prospector. 745 Kansas Jim, the Cross-Cut Detective. 761 Marmaduke, the Muatanger Detective. 78 The Rustler of Rolling Stone. 85 Lone Wand Joe, the Committee of One. set Kent Kirby, the High-Kicker from Killbuck, 2 The tor Detective in Texas. 872 Two Showmen Detectives in Colorado, Other Novela by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Reb; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. 84 Rosebud Rob on Hand; or, Idy!, the Girl Miner. 88 Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance; or, Photograph Phil. 121 Rosebud Rob’s Challenge; or, Cinnamon Chip. 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee's Surround 281 Denver Doll's Vietory; or, Skul! and Crossbones, 255 Denver Doll’a Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonansa. 296 Denver Doll's Drift; or. The Road Queen. BER VYreku dim, the Gold-Gutherers or, The Life Lottery, 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. x 885 Yreka Jim's Joker; or, The Rivals of Red Nose. B89 Yreka Jiin’« New Role; or, Bicycle Ken. 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam, 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game. 218 Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter 241 Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret; ov, A Sister’s Devotion, 248 Slerra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 258 Sierra Sam’s Parad; or, The Angel ot Big Vista. 258 Sierra Sam’s Sevens or, The Stolen Bride. Kangarov Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. Kangaroo Kit’«» Racket; or, The Pride of Played-Out. Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. The Boy Detective; or, Gold Rifle, the Sharpehooter. 96 Watch-Eye, the Detective; or, Arabs and Angels, 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, the — Detective 145 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. 226 The Arab Detective 3 or, Suoozer, the Boy Sharp. 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 825 Kelley, Hickey & Co,, the Detectives of Philadelphia, 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Hat Marry, the Base Ball Detective. 426 Sam Sliabsaides, the Pogger-Boy Detective. 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives. 26 Cleven Hoof, the Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures, 82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot 45 Old Avalanches or, Wild Edna, the Gir! Brigand. 58 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix, 61 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team. 92 Canada Chet ¢ or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 118 Jack Hoyle the Young Speculator. 125 Bonanza Bill, Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 188 Koss Bob the King of Boothlacks, 141 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or; The Branded Brows, 77 Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scampa. $1 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or, Lady Lily’s Love, 86 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado; or, Rowdy Kate. 40 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Boy Patrol: or, The Rival Heire, 9 No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 880 Little Quick-Shot3; or, The Dead Face of Daggereville, 858 Firat-Class Fred, she Gent from Gopher. 878 Nabob Ned} or, The Secret of Sinb City. BSR Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher; or, A Son’s Vengeance. 426 Sealakin Sam, the Sparkler; or The Tribunal of Ten. 918 Kit Keith, t ¢ Reverue Spotter. BY J, ©. COWDRIOK, 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 5614 Broadway Broadway Rreadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Breadway TBS Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway 775 Broadway 788 Broadway 786 Broadway 790 Broadway 796 Broadway 800 Broadway 805 Brondway 810 Broadway 815 Broadway S21 Broadway 826 Broadway 888 Broadway 889 Broadway 844 Broadway 849 Broadway 856 Broadway 862 Broadway S68 Broadway t. Billy’s Bank Racket. Sie Kamat J Th y Among Jerse uge. ti phat alien ee Billy’« #100,006 Snap. Billy’s Blind; or, The Bootblack Stowaway. Billy in London, Billy Shadows London Slums. S74 Broadway Billy’« French Game. 880 LKroadway Billy and the Bomb-Throwers, 918 The Trump Dock-Boy. 912 Train Boy Trist’s Hot Hustle, 906 Satety Sam, the Cyele Sport. 900 Jumping Jack’s Jubliee, SST? Battery Bob, the Dock Detective, 860 silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Keys, 869 Shasta, the Gold King} or, For Seven Years Dead, 0 The Detective’«A peremticns or, A Boy Without a Name, 24 Cibuta John}; or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar, 489 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout, 467 Diaco Dan, the Daisy Dude. 506 Redlight Ralph the Prince of the Road. 524 The Engineer Detectives or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve 548 Mart, the Night Expresa Detective. 671 Air-Line Luke the Young Engineer; or, The Double Case 592 The Boy Pinkerton; or, Running the Rascals Out. 615 Fighting Warr the Chief of Chained Cyclone. 640 Bareback eth, the Centaur of the Circle, reed Tynewriter Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward. 65 Moontlght merges the ** Pizenest ’’ Man of Ante Bar, 894 Arizona Dick’s W ipe-Out. BY WILLIAM RK. EYSTER,. 190 Dandy Darke} or, The Tigers of High Pine. 210 Faro frank; or, Dandy Darke’s Go-Down Pards 818 The Huatler Regue-Catcher. S88 Poker Pete’« Double Dodge, 851 The Tie-To Sport ¢.or, High Hustling at Sinners’ Flat, S88 Monte Saul, the Sport. 901 Diamond Dave, the Gilt-Edge Shooter, 919 Crack-Shot Datsy’s Drop, BY HMAR@LD PAYNE. 848 Dan, the River Sport; or, Foiling the Frisco Sharp, 892 Bowery Ben in Chinatown, 911 Bowery Bob, the East-side Detective, BY BUFFALO BILL (Hon, Wm. F. Cody), ; 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand, 19 The Phantom Spy 2 or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Peadly-Eye, the Unknown Scout, or, The Banded Brotherhood 68 Border Robin Hood, or, The Prairie Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trust, EEE See EEE EEE EOE — BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, New York Nat's Three of a Kind. New York Nat’s Double. New York Nat’s in Colorado. + New York Nat in Gold Nugget Camp. New York Nat’s Deadly Deal. New York Nuat’s Crook-Chase. New York Nat’s Trump Card. New York Nat and the Grave Ghouls. New York Nat's Masked Mascot. New York Nat, the Gamin Detective. Doom’s Kidnapper Knock-Out, Doom’s Ten Strike, Doom’s Flush Hand, Doom’s Death-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny, Deoom’s Destiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror, Doom: or, Tle Sharps and Sharks o1 New York. Dick Doom in Boston; or, A Man of Many Masks. Dick Doom tn Chicago. Dick Doom In the Wild Weat. Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep? or, Five Links in a Clue. Dick Doom’s Death Clue. Dick Doom’s Diamond Deal. Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot, Dick Doom’s Shadew Hunt. Dick Doom’s Big Haul. Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Traii. Dashing Charlie’s Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Captive. Dashing Charlie’« Pawnee Pard. Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer. Back Taylor, King of the Cowboys. Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. Buek Taylor’« Boys; or, The Red Rider: of the Rio Grande, Pawnee BIIl, the Prairie Shadower. Pawnee Bill; or, Carl, the Mad Cowboy. Pawnee Bills Pledge; or, The Cowboy's Doom. Pawnee Bill; or, Daring Dick. Redfern’s Curtous Case: o, The Rival Sharps. Kedtern at Devil’ Raneh; or, The Sharp from Texas, Redtern’s High Hand; or, Blue Jacket, 7 Redfern’s Last Trail; or, The Red Sonibrero Rangers. 668 Red Kalph’s Ruse; or, The Buccaneer Midshipman. 674 Red Ralph’s Bold Game; or, The Wizard Sailor. 679 Red Ralph, the Shadower; or, The Freebvoter’s Legacy. 644 Rutterfly Billy’s Disguise. 650 Butterfly Billy, the Pony. Express Rider, 656 Butterfly Billy’« Man Hunt. 662 Kutterfly Billy’s Bonanza. 565 Kent Kingdon; or, ‘the Owls of the Overland. Kent Kingdon's Khadower} or, the Card Queen. Kent Kingdon’s Duel; «r, The Surgeon Scout, 586 Kent Kingdon’s Doom 5 rs The Buekekin Avenger. 546 Lafitte Run Down; or, The Butenneers of Barrataria, 550 Lafitte’s Legacy: or. The Avenging Son. 5655 Lafitte’s Confession; or, The Creole Corsair, And Fifty Others, Dick Dick Dick Dick Dick Dick BY J0 PIERCE, BHT Rob o’ the Bowery } or, The Prince of Mulberry Street, 415 The Vagabond Detective; or, Bowery Bob's Boom. 452 Hotapur Bob, the Street-Boy Detective. 460 The wyer’s Shadow; or Luke's Legacy, 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horse-King. 494 Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective, 504 Five Points Phil, the Pavement Prince. 509 Jack J ers, the Butcher Boy Detective. 516 Tartar Tim; or, Five Pointe Phil’s Menagerie, 526 North River Nat, the Pier Detective, 588 Wrestling Rex, the Pride of the Sixth Ward. 641 Jeff Flicker. the Stable Boy Detective. 551 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow; or, The Old Well Mystery. 559 Harlem Jack, the Office Boy Detective. 569 Brooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook Detective, 7 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, 588 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. ROR WiderAwake Bert, the Street-Steerer. 614 Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s Aid, 628 Buck Bumblebee, the Harlem Hummer, 689 Sunrise Saul, the Express-Train Ferret, 649 Gamin Bob, the Bowery Badger; or, Scooping a 658 Bky-Rocket Rob, the Life-Saver. 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator 694 &picy Jim, the Only One of Hie Kind. 706 Tom Thiatle, the Road-House Detective, 717 Mosquite Jack, the Hustler Gamin. 726 Dennia Duff the Brown Sport's Kid. tan Dick of the Docka, the Night-W atch. * 65 Flipper Flynn, the Street Patrol. 271 Foxy Fred's Odd Pard; or, The Keenet’s Huge Hustle. TRL Caat-Off Cale, the Scapegoat Detective. 824 Rowery 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 Broadway Gamin, 860 The Boat-Club Mascot; or, Dan Decker’s Double Deal 864 The Union Square paggage Boy. S7N The Street Arab’s Blind. 886 The Five Pointe Lodging Houre Janitor. 890 Ace Migh, the Trump Card_ Detective. 895 Fifth Avenue Fred, the Valet Detective. 899 Basement Rert, the Boy Cobbler Detective. 908 Billy Blue-Blazes, the Dodger ofthe Docks. 907 Reddy Rusher, Kell-Boy 4-11-44. 915 Fup Flasher, Ferret, of [East Broadway. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 920 New York Nat Trapped; or, The Texan Tenderfoot Crook-Tracker. By Col. P. Ingraham 921 The Boy from Denver; or, Fighting the Toughs of Dead- set. By T. C. Harbaugh, 922 Sol Sharpe, Detective; or, Hayseed Ramsey’s Donble Find. By Edward L. Wheeler. 928 Gold-Duet Dan’s Snap-Shoty; or. The Deadwood Specu- lator’s Blind, By John W. Osbon. Slippery Set, 924 Big Boot« Bob, the Fire-Laddte; or, The Dandy De- tective’s Double-up. By J. C. Cowarick, 925 The Young Cowboy Captain; or, Rounding-up the Greasers, By T. J. Flanagua. 926 New York Nat and the Traitor Ferret; or, Ihe Girl Mascot’s Best Score, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 927 Kid Bandy’s Brigade In Arizona; or, Black Vulean’s Redwood Terrors. By Oll Coomes, 928 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at_ Dollarville; or, The Irish- man’s Sweepstakes. By E. L. Wheeler. 929 Buffalo Bill’s Crack-shot Pard; or, The Tenderfoot ip the Wild West. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. 980 Kustler Ralph, the Boy Spotter; or, Jigger’s Grana Bulge. Vy J. C, Cowdrick, 981 The Sport in Velvet; er, Billy Bird’s Big Boom, By Wm, R. Eyster. 982 New York Nat’s Drop. By Col. P. Ingraham. 988 The Two Midshipmen; or, The Corsair-Chaser’s First Cruise. By T. J. Flanagan, A New Isaue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by al) newsdealers, fives ents por copy, or sent by mall on receipt of alx cents each. BEADLE AND ADAMBA, Publishers, 98 William Strect, New York,