Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 934) (1895 06 18)
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ry aie : F a ia f / » Xx \¥ lg » | \\ nave ; \ \ \ A) 3 : . y = eo am J WH WW SN ( | : aT cai (nt! to a! a! i i! im i Of ere & Sara Entered as Second hack Matter at the New York, N. .Y, Post Office. Copyrighted 1895, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, June 18, 1895. eee = aoe — $2.50 PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS. Price, No. 934. a Year. No, 98 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK. 5 cents. Tal. XXXVI. | I VNNHAHANT HA mn Hil ee ee Wu TT I HTN iH! HI | ih, | = | is in Sy Y oe AN a r WANA HL ial il t Lh SH I PLAY | TS Jn . ! ——— H| Hh tlili / ; ih } / Y, CBZ = EE ena: iis Se i HT | i] Zy “ott = ——— 5 Ii i ' iH | eA ut tim Hl The Girl Sport Pard. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ DEADWOOD DICK ” NOVELS, ETC. CHAPTER I. STRANGE MEETING, “Waoap!” ‘You bet!” The two riders drew rein snddenly. That one was @ woman was plain enough, RAE MELEE LN A bes Las although in male attire. She wore a som- “WHOAP!” CRIED THE GIRL SPORT, ‘HOLD ON A MINUTE, MY PRETTY HYENAS!” brero, from under which her dark, curling = 4
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ries 2 Deadwood Dick, J etait at Flush Flats. hair fell in a splendid mass upon peek shoulders. She was a beauty, with dark-tinted skin, regular features and peerless eyes. She was riding astride, and wore a natty suit, the vest low-cut, and the coat richly bound. She had whipped a revolver from the inside of her coat, for business. And the man—he was.a good-looking fellow, under thirty, with dark hair and mustache and keen, magnetic eyes. He was clad after the manner of a sport, wearing seal yelvet, a white felt hat, and patent leathers. He, duced a popper, too, had pro- but had no use for it, as he saw the moment his éyes met those idea what kind of a place it is?’ of the handsome girl sport. Immediately he thrust his weapon out of sight and lifted his’ hat. “ Allow me to offer apology,” he said, gallantly, “but I could not, of course, know what manner of person I was about to confront.” “No apology necessary, sir,’ with a »merry laugh that displayed’ twin rows and the girl re- its place. that of the pearliest teeth, turned her own weapon to “We were both ready for business, was all.”’ The seene is laid at the bottom of a wild, rugged gulch. Two trails, from different ) directions, here converge into one, with a point of rocks separating them, And along these trails the two riders had come. By strange coincidence the two horses had appeared at precisely the same time, neck and neck, and, acting upon im- pulse, each of the riders had prepared to interchange introductions of a force- ful character. *And whom have I the honor of ad- dressing?” the man asked. ie Well, my name is ‘Nancy Jane, but I am called Nobby Nancy, just for short. Who are you?” ’ “Nobby Nancy, eh? It is a name that fits you well, anyhow. My own title is Peters. surnamed Simon, but better known, where I’m known at all, as Simon Pure, the Peculiar.” Nobby Nancy laughed a merry, ringing laugh. “It is a peculiar name,’’ she declared. “Which way ‘are you traveling, Mr. Peters?” “Tn the same direction as yourself, it Seems, Miss Jane.” “Oh! don’t call me miss—please don’t! Mr. Peters. Jane.” “ And I would prefer to call you Nobby Nancy, if I may. Moreover,.I must re- quest you not to put on any trimmings when you address me; just call me Simon and done with it.” “All right, Simon!” “And which way are you going, if I may ask?’ “In the same direction as yourself— to pay you back in your own coin.” “Ha, ha! Well, there is no use of our fencing; you seem a pretty good sort of a fellow, and I’m another.” “You are a jovial blade, I opine!” re- marked the girl sport, nonchalantly, “and I rather cotton to you. IT am silk warp and all-wool filling, and a good sort of person to tie to.” “T ‘believe you, and here is my hand, if you will deign to take it. I am an- other, if you are willing to believe it, and T should like to have the pleasure of your company for the remainder of our journey. I think we will tte a pretty strong team.” “T am willing, ospletionran fact, a little more than willing, to confess ‘the truth.” | r A es What do you mean?” Bring it ‘right out, Nancy ; anything fair and held it ready | into a city and the Hurdle by name. “TI ‘have reason. to believe there is dan- | ger for me on this trail.”’ “Indeed! Then there is every reason why we should continue on our journey in company, my fair Nobby Nancy.” “Ha, ha! I fail to see where you find about me, for Il am as dark as sun and wind can make me. But, we won't discuss that. I am ready to jog along if you are.” “To what particular place are you go- ing?” the man asked, “IT am heading for Flush Flats, which, I take it, is your destination as well.” “Yes, it is; and I hope we'll have op- portunity to become better acquainted during our sojourn there. Have you any “JT have not. You, then, are a stranger | there?” “Yes. I have never seen the place in iny life, and only heard of it a short time ago.” “The »trange, there, now. That little suspicious, you see, and I am glad to have company.’ * Strange coincidence!” same with me; and, what is exclaimed the man. ‘‘ That is almost my own @ase, ex- actly. I'll tell you what it is, Nobby Nancy. I think it would be a good thing for us to pool our piles in this game, and share the risks and divide the spoils. What do you say?” “Tt is a bargain!” assented the girl sport, offering her hand. CHAPTER II. HINTS OF A CRIME. Flush Flats was a flush place. _It was one of the biggest camps in all that section, and was important in pro- portion. And, tial man in the town was one. Richard Rashton, president and manager of the Dauphin Mine, president also of the local bank, and also mayor. He was, as it were, sort of veritable Poo Bah in the community, and it was no small community, either. The population was considerable, and while the place still retained the old name, yet there was a movement on foot to have the town made hame changed. Rashton was some fifty years of age, big, portly, with iron gray hair and close cropped beard. He was strictly a man of business, first and last and all the time. In truth, he was nothing else. . On this morning, which witnesses the opening of our story, he was sitting in his private office in the bank, which looked out upon the street. Just opposite was the largest hotel in the place, the Fifth Avenue Hotel, so- called. The street, by the way, was called Fifth Avenue, although it was the only avenue the town could boast. In- quiring strangers were told that it was expected the town would have more some day. ' Rashton was looking out upon the street | _ seene, when something — his par- | ticular attention. He called to his cashier, one Henry “T'll wager a sixpence that’s our man!” the president exclaimed, pointing out the person he meant. “Oh, nop” vaita he!” the eashier dis- agreed. “Put on your hat and find out... Do so quietly. They have dismounted and are going to stop there. at the hotel, and you can see what name he registers.” The cashier hurried away, and the pres- ident continued looking: out of the wine dow. ° the biggest and most consequen-, / / | door, I don’t know why I am going | is what makes me a | + Yes, T'll bet it is he!’ he said to him- self. ‘He looks like a keen one, even if he is in flash attire and seemingly a sport. ll wager that he is our man, two to one!” The persons who had claimed attention’ were two new arrivals, a man and a woman. The man was clad in seal velvet, white felt hat and patent leathers, while the woman wore male attire. More partic- ular description is needless, since we have seen them before. d When they had dismounted, the man called a bystander to take charge of their horses; tossing him a yellow-tinted tip, and by the time the cashier crossed the street, the man,and woman had mounted the steps and entered’ thé it The woman had passed in-by the hail while the man entered the door over which was the word though it was so near a neighbor to the bar-room that there was scarcely a dis- tinction. Hurdle followed the man, with the crowd of curious*idlers always to be found standing around such places. He was gone for some time, and when he appeared, he recrossed the street and re-entered the president’s office. . “Well?” the president asked. “You were mistaken,” said the cashier. “Not the man, then?’ * No, not the man.” “What is his name? register?” “Why, simply—‘Simon Peters and Pard, Pilgrims.”’ “A strange name, sure enough. not convinced.” ' 5 “Why not? right here.” How did he Tm Your man would come :“No telling what Deadwood Dick would ie do, Hurdle; do.” “Well, there is one way to find out; wait for him to make the advance. if he is our man, there is no doubt but he will call this afternoon.” “Yes, if he is the man, which I am not prepared to believe. He does not look as I fancy Deadwood Dick looks. He im- presses me as being a card sharp.” “And how about the woman?’ “Not likely, either, that she is the one mo telling what he would we want—which makes me most doubt the man.’ ‘‘ What are they to each other?’ “Pards, the man has set down, but I _take it they are man and wife.’ “Maybe you are right; but what is their game? be?” “ Why, just what’ I have intimated, or said—a pair of sports and card sharps, who made their way here to ply thetr trade.” “Well, you may be right; this atten! noon will probably determine. If they. don’t ¢all, then they are, as you sus- pect, card sharps, and not the two we have secretly summoned © to solve the death mystery.” J CHAPTER Til. : UNEXPECTED EXCITEMENT, | es ‘The day passed and the stranger. did not visit the bank. — He was seen about town a little, sothe os of the time in company with the girl — in male attire, and they. sat together for a while on the hotel piazza. Speculation had been rife teniccting their relationship, and the first and most popular guess, that they were man and wife, was by night abandoned. Tt had) - been decided that they were only cas- ual friends. Or, ‘possibly, as some suggested, deb : and ‘sister. 3 “Office,” al-» What do you take them to_
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a _ this, Nobby Nancy.” They had separate rooms at the hotel, which fact in itself had practically settled the first surmise. Their names had now become known throughout the camp, and were upon every lip, for they were certainly a couple to attract attention. wureat was the cur- josity to know more about them, At the time of the closing of the bank for the day, Cashier Hurdle remarked to Mr. Rashton: * Well, you think now that he is not the man?’ ‘Yes, I am forced to think so.” The deading place of amusement in Flush Flats was the Odeon, which was something in the way of a saloon and playhouse combined—being a long hall, the front part fitted with bar and ta- bles, and the rear half divided off and fitted with seats, on a sloping floor, with # fairly commodious stage at the far end. This place was open night and day, and from eight o’clock in the evening until midnight there was a continuous performance; the rest of the time the bar was the only attraction. _ It was about that time of the evening— eight o’clock on the evening of the day of which we write, that Simon Peters and his pard entered the Odeon, as if to while away a pleasant hour. As the performance on the stage was about to commence, and the crowd was filing the chairs, they, too, passed through and took seats in a favorable-lo- cation, to immediately become the center of attraction, every pair of eyes, being turned upon them—which did not in the least disconcert or annoy them, The curtain was rung up, to a variety performance, the first thing on the pro- gramme being*a song by one “Star Ster- ling.” The curtain rose to a great clapping of hands, indicative that the singer was known and popular. The music struck up, and, in a moment, the singer tripped lightly out upon the boards and made her bow. As she did so, Simon Pure noticed that his sport pard gave a start. “What is the matter?” he asked.. “T think I know her, and if she is the person I take her to be she is no friend of mine.” “Indeed! But I do not imagine that she is your enemy to a dangerous ex- tent. She does not look like a very “vengeful sort of person, truly.’” “T cannot say; but, one ‘thing. I do know and that is that I must have an interview with her, as soon as conven- ient, and if she knows anything about my missing lover, she shall tell me?!’ She spoke low, of course, and no one but her companion could hear. The singer had begun her song. “You fill me with interest,” exclaimed Simon Pure. “ You did not tell me about “Well, no, I did not; why should 1? “You withhold some things from me, so we are even.” “And. stand in our own light by so doing. 1 have been thinking that it will be better if we confide fully in each other, for I have how ‘seen enough of you to satisfy me.” - “The same thought has come to me.” “We will leave here early, then, and have an earnest talk. Say no moré now, for this is no place to— Ha! she sees you!” The singer had stopped suddenly short im her song, and was gazing staringly at Nobby Nancy. Everybody wis filled with surprise at } the sudden stopping of the song, and the vane stopping too, all eyes followed eA a | f hi orsk i 8 Parise etek nM the direction of her gaze, Nobby Nancy. This for a moment; then, with a sudden movement, the singer leaped from the Stage to the floor, and ran up the aisle. She whipped out a pistol as she ad- vanced, seeing which, Nobby Naney did the same and sprang to her feet to meet her, thus getting “the drop.” “'Stop, or I will stop you!” cried the girl sport, ringingly. The singer obeyed, but had come to within three yards of her rival—for such, apparently, Nobby Nancy had been, or then was. The general crowd was, in an instant, all excitement, and every one was amazed—curious, too, to know what it all meant. “IT want to know where he is!” the singer demanded, her handsome face flushing red in anger and hate. * Just the question I wanted to ask of you,’ responded the girl sport. “I do not know, and it is apparent that you do not. We are still even, it is evident.” Nobby Naney was much the cooler and calmer of the two. “Are you speaking the manded the singer. “Yes, I am speaking the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” “Well, I am forced to believe you, but if I find that you haye told me a lie, the worse for you.” to rest upon truth?’ de- ““No oecasion for me to lie. I would not be afraid to tell you the truth, if I did know where—where he is. You had $9 better get back and finish your song. The manager of the hall was hurrying up, other performers were already on the stage, and the singer was told to get behind the scenes. “And you,’ and the manager turned -roughly to Nobby Nancy, “you had. bet- ter get out of here.” “And you had better attend to your own business!’ spoke up Simon Pure, in Clear and ringing tones. ‘‘ My pard was not to blame for this little break in the performance, Mister Man.” “T don’t care; I order her to get eS ot here; doyou understand? And you along with her, too! Come, now, no fooling! Git up and git or I will fetch you out of that seat by the roots! See?’ “We paid our admission to this part of the house; we have done nothing out of order, and we are going to stay here just as long as we please! Do you see?” The man had gone so far that he could not well “take water’ now, so made a reach for Simon and laid a hand on. his collar, with the intention of carrying out his promise. He certainly looked to be able to do it, and as Simon sat next to ‘the aisle, it looked like an easy job for \the Odeon man. , But the trick did not work as the man- ‘ager had intended, for Simon was up ‘with a suddenness that amazed him, and ‘something else amazed him a good deal ‘more; an iron-like fist was planted ‘squarely between his eyes, and headlong down the aisle plunged the manager in the direction of the stage. - The erowd broke out with a ringing round of applause. Not a man in the place was in sympathy with the manager, for he had more foes than friends in that crowd. His name was Sanford Mainard, and being big and strong, with some knowl- edge of the fistic art, he had ruled order in his hall with an iron hand. Hence it did the crowd good to see him get such a “winder,” but at the same time everybody knew that he would only be the worse when he got upon his feet. ‘Friendly voices, therefore, called out to Simon to look out for himself, which Simon was evidently prepared to do. Deadwood Dick, aed IT at | Flush Flats. 3 take care of me!” CHAPTER IV. , NANCY JANE'S STORY. It looked as if there might be a jubilee. Half the men in the hall were upon their feet by the time Mainard got upon his, and many of them had their hands behind them, where they carried their guns. That they were prepared to make things lively was not to be doubted. “Sit down, gentlemen! Sit called out Simon Pure, very calmly. “There is no need for any undue excite- ment here, I can take care of myself, I think, and if not, this gentleman will “You are right I will!” cried Mainard, making for him. ‘‘ No man ever struck me like that and lived.” “He'll kill you!’ whispered Nobby Nancy, in alarm. “No he won’t. Be calm.” Simon was on his feet still, with one hand resting on the back of the seat, and he eyed the big man calmly. There was something in that magnetic eye-flash that brought the proprietor to a stop before he came within touching distance, but he pulled a gun and leveled it. “TI order you out of here!” he com- manded, sternly. “And I refuse to go. I have paid my admission; I have done nothing out of order, and you cannot put me out. Put up your gun, for if you were to murder me, this crowd would perforate you in a manner that would give your undertaker a bad job to put you in a box.’ There was more truth than poetry about that, as Mainard perfectly well. under- stood. “Tf it were not for interrupting the per- formance, I'd show you what I’d do,’ he snarled. “And I assure you that the performance might be permanently interrupted, if it depends on your active personal service, sir,”’ was the cool and easy retort. “Take the wiser course, and go back to your busi- ness!” ‘ “I may see you again, unless you sneak out of town unawares,” growled the man- ager, thrusting his weapon back into his pocket and turning toward the stage. “As I am not doing the sneak act, you will have all the opportunity you can desire.” . Simon sat down amidst a thunder of applause. Thé music struck up again, the perform- | ers took up their parts, and things moved along smoothly once more. “Who would have thought we'd get into such a broil here?’ observed Nobby Nancy, speaking in a low tone to her com- panion. “I thought you were done for, Simon, sure enough.” “Not by a fellow of that stripe, you will find. Tm glad I had to serve him no worse,’ “ Shall we go out?’ “No; we'll stay an haut or so, just to prove that we are in no haste, and then we'll return to the hotel.” So they gave their attention to the per- formance, and nothing further came to pass to make things uncomfortable. Finally, after they had remained some thing over an hour, they arose, at the end of one of the performances, and made their way quietly out, the men in the place _ making way for them. “Tt looks as if there might be trouble ahead for us,’ remarked Nobby Nancy, as they proceeded toward the hotel, “and I must look out for Maud Weille—” “That is her real name, eh?” “Yes; Star Sterling is only a stage name. I have got to look out for her, and you have made an enemy of ae man- eit alerical beth fs preg hy down!” -
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ee GR “That for him!” with a snap of the fingers. “He won’t bother me, I guess. But, you think there is danger to you from the girl?” “‘T cannot tell. She may think that I have fibbed to her, and in that case she may try to cut up alittle. But, I think I can hold my own against her, unless the man chips in with her.” “And in that case he against me,” calmly. “J thank you. And now, we were to have a plain talk, I believe,” as they took seats upon the end, of the hotel piazza. They settled down in their chairs, and Simon placed his feet up on the railing and lighted a cigar. It was a charming evening, and a delightful place to spend a quiet hour before retiring. “ Now I am ready,” advised Simon, com- placently. “Well, I will first of all tell you my real name, which is Jennie James. I am no relation to Jease, however, that I am aware of,” laughing. “T can believe that.” “ About as far as we have confided in each other has been to say that we have both been sent for to come to this town of Flush Flats, and that Richard Rashton is the man who wants to see us.” “That is correct.’ “What he wants to see me for I cannot imagine, and you have said that you do not know what he wants of you. By your advice I have agreed to keep quiet for a day or two, until you take a survey of the ground, before we make ourselves known to him. Are you willing, now, to tell me your real name, sir?” i ; “My name is Richard M. Bristol, bet- ter known as Deadwood Dick, Junior.” The young woman uttered a low ery, and caught hold of Dick’s arm with a sudden clutch, saying: “Ts it possible? You are the one person T have been longing to meet, for I am sure that you, if anybody, can find my missing lover for me. Oh, say that you will!’ “Why, certainly. I will do whatever is possible in that direction, Miss James, be- lieve me.” “Oh!. I am so glad! stand each other,” “T hope we do. But, your story?” “Yes, I will tell you; I can tell every- thing freely and fully, for I would keep nothing back from you, knowing who you are.” ‘But, in truth, there is not much to tell, The man I am seeking is named 'Pheodore Barefield. We are all from St. Paul—he, I, and this girl, who was my rival, and also another man named Eugene Brand- son, who was my lover’s rival for my hand.” “Rather complicated.” “It looks so, at first glance. T and Maud both loved Theodore, and he and Eugene both loved me. Each vowed that he woudld possess me, but that was impos- sible, since I loved only Theodore, or Dory, as I called }im. We tried to bring about a match between Eugene and Maud, but it was no go.” “That would have speedily.” “But there was a fortune in the way. IT am quite rich, in my own right, and I will buck up Now we under- righted matters ‘firmly believe that Eugene thought just a little more of my money than he did of me. And, too, it stood doubly in the way, for Dory would not accept me until he had made a fortune of his own, which he came down here to do, something more than five years ago, and I have never heard from him since.” “Which would seem to show that he thas not made the fortune yet,” suggested Dick. “T am more of the opinion that some ~ ot ‘ \2 De aL Prat OT SO OR TL Ape Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats. harm has befallen him,’’ declared the girl; “and the more so because Eugene left home about six months after Dory departed. He was gone a year, then he came back and asked me once again to wed him, and when I refused he left home a second time, saying that life had no charms for him, and that he would go’and bury him- self where no one knew him. He might, however, he said, come back yet once more to ask again.” “You asked him, of course, seen Dory?” “Certainly; but he declared that he had not seen him. However, I did not believe him, and neither did Maud, and we both decided to set out to find him, though not in company, you may be sure. And we did set out. I have means to carry me, while she has to earn her living as she goes along, and you haye seen the way she is doing it. Not that I say a word against her for that; she is good and honest, far as I know; but she can never win my lover from me, even should she be the first one to find him, And that is my whole story, Mr. Bristol.’” CHAPTER V. RIVALS’ PLEDGES. Deadwook Dick had listened with a good deal of interest. It was but a simple story, as the girl had declared, yet it was one fraught with suggestions. “Well, we may find your lover living, and I hope we shall,” said Dick, at the close, “but I must think the chances are against it, unless—”’ “Unless what?” “He may have thought less of you than you think he did.” “Oh, no; I will not believe that of him, Mr. Bristol. He was as good and as true as gold, and he loved me dearly.” “Do you think that the .other man, Eugene, would be evil enough at heart to murder him, if the chance offered? That is a terrible thing to think, but mur- ders are not rare in this yet half-wild re- gion.” “Tt is so terrible that I will not allow myself to believe it of him; but, all the same, it is possible, Indeed, I cannot help but believe that he has had something to do with the case that has kept Dory ab- sent and silent all these years. Perhaps he has lied to him about me, and so made him decide never to return, thinking me false and unworthy.” “JT hardly think that, because Dory,.as you call him, would distrust anything that his rival might tell him, and would be likely to investigate for himself, would he not?” “Yes; unless Eugene had false informa- tion reach him in some other manner than by his own lips, and in a way that would carry eonviction with it. He might do that, you know.” j “He might, possibly, try such subter- fuge, but even that would imply that your lover had doubted you, and 1 am sure you will give him credit for having had im- plicit faith in you, will you not?” “Yes, yes; for I promised him so faith- fully that I would remain true to him, and wait for his return; but, I did beg him to write to me, no matter where he was, so that I might know where he was and how making out.” y ; “Something has happened to him, that is pretty evident.” “T have a hope, but it is so wild that I searcely dare call it ‘such, and that is—” “Ts what?” “This Mr. Rashton is a banker, and it is possible that Dory has funds with him and has asked him to send for me, in or- der to give me a glad surprise. I am im- patient, but 1 have been guided by you—” \ if he had et ee “Do not hope too strongly, Miss James. Where thousands seek fortunes, only one in a thousand finds the prize. Still, if you do not know this man Rashton, and you have assured me that you do not, it may be something in connection with your lover that has led him to send for you.” “T am so eager to know!” “We will visit him on the morrow and learn. But, be prepared for news the worst, is my advice.” “Then you know something “Not a thing.” “Then, what do you mean?” “Why, simply that if your lover were alive, or, at any rate, at liberty, would he not have communicated with you himself and not have delegated another?” “Tt looks so,” “Where were you addressed by Rash- ton?” “ At home—that is, St. Paul.” “And your letter was forwarded you?” “Yes; I have kept in touch with home all the time of my wanderings.”’ “And you came in this direction imme- diately upon receipt of it. Now I get the hang of the thing.” “But, it is all a mystery, and it must remain so until we have seen this Mr. tashton and Jearned what he has to say. But, may I ask questions?” “As many as you like.” “Did he send for you as Deadwood Dick?’ “He did.” 9" eagerly. to “Then it must be that he wants some- thing in the way of detective work, L should imagine.” “That is what I think, and that is the reason I am remaining incog. for a time. I want to look around before I let him know who I am.” ° “And what have you been able to find out?” “Nothing. There is no mystery abroad in the land, as far as I am able to find, and I don’t know what he can want.” “Well, Mr. Bristol, one question more: * Do you still care to have me for your pard?” ~ “Why, certainly. ask such a question as that?” “Why, knowing who you are, I do not feel that I can be of any use to you, but rather that I am more likely to prove in the way—” “Never mind that; you are still my pard for this game. We must stick together, since we are in the same boat, so to say— that is, since we have both been myste- riously sent for.’’ “ Well, I will obey you in everything.” “Tf you will do that I think you can help the game along amazingly. And, if any- thing should go wrong with me, you will have to play your hand alone, and do my part as well as your own at the same time. “And now about visiting Mr. Rashton. Suppose I visit him at the bank, and you send for him to call on you here at the hotel. That will fix it so that he can speak his mind to each, and we can com- pare notes afterward.” “T am willing to be guided by what you think best, for I know I can trust you implicitly.” “Then let it be so understood, and— Ah! whom have we here?” A woman was approaching, The night was not dark, and eyen had it been, the street was brilliantly ilumin- ated. The woman in question had come from the direction of the Odeon, and Dick was not wrong in a guess that it was the singer Star Sterling. oe NS She came up the steps and advanced to where they sat. — t FEO EARP Gon Pex ete What leads you to.
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Deadwood Dick, J rs, at Flush sear 5 9 “Ts it you, Jennie? “Yes, Maud.” “And this. gentleman?” “Ts Mr. Peters, a friend of mine.” “You need not introduce me. I did not come for that. But I want to ask you once more if—” “T told you the solemn truth before, and there is nothing more that I can tell you I hope you wiil take my word for she asked. ‘Then there is something faat I want to ee besides. Wiat isis “ “Tf you find Dory, will you tell me? If I find him, I will tell you.” “Well, I will agree to that, Maud, though you ought to know that it can do you little good. He cared only for me.” “And I cared only for him. It will do this much good, that we need not go on looking in yain, after one has found him, dead or alive, and it will be fair to both.” “Well, all right; I will let you know when I have found him. By the way, do you know anything of Eugene Brandson?” “T do not, and never want to— But, that is not true.” “What is not true?’ “That I never want to know anything of him, for I do. I am looking for him as well as for Dory.” “And what for?” “Simple reason. him, as do you.” ““T need not have asked, had I thought.” “Well, beyond this agreement we re- main bitter foes; for, had it not been for you, I might now have been Dory Bare- field’s happy wife, and I hate you for it!” “T have not iwe same feeling against you, Maud, though I will admit that I have little love for you. If that is all you have to say, I will not detain you, for Mr. Peters and I: were talking over matters of business. I will bid you good-night!” But the other had turned and was going off, without even so much as that formal “good-evening!’’ Because I suspect CHAPTER VI. DICK AT THE BANK. The following forenoon Deadwood Dick entered the bank, stu! in his character of Simon Pure, and he noted that the cashier veyed him sharply. when he approached ‘this window. “Ts Mr. Rashton caller asked. “Yes, the is in.” ‘*T want to see him.” “What mame, please?” “Simon Peters.” The cashier stepped to the door of the private office, where Dick heard him an- ounce the name, without comment. “Show him right in! Dick heard the ‘president order, ‘but he could not see the ‘brightened look that came over his face nor the wink he gaye the cashier, as if to add, “What did I tell you?” “This way, sir,” and the cashier opened a gate in the railing. “Step right in, sir.” Dick, hat in hand, entered the private office. Mr. Rashton wheeled in his chair to greet him, and waved his hand to a chair. in his office?’ the » “T do not recall your name as one that IT have heard before, Mr. Peters. I think you are a stranger to me.’ “Tam here at your bidding, siy.r” “Ah! Then you are—” “Whom did you expect?” “Well, I have been looking for Dead- wood Dick, Junior.” ‘IT am the man,” “As I thought, and I told Hurdle sc yesterday, when you drove up to the ho- ‘tel. Who is the person with you?” “The other whom you sent for, sir.” 1 large building the ¢ “ Indeed! you here together?’ ““We are talking too much in the wind yet, Mr. Rashton. I must know more be- fore I confide more.” “You are cautious and two necessary characteristics for one in your line, I should say. I sent for you in the way of business, as I briefly gave you the hint.’ “You said you required my services.” “T do. And I have been eagerly await- ing your coming. Why did you not come to me at once?” ; “T wanted to see which way the wind was blowing, sit, before I made myself known to any one, even to you.” ” “Well, it was all right. But I venture to say that you learned nothing whatever. Come, now, confess that you learned noth- ing.” : “Nothing at all, sir.’’ * Tor the reason that nothing is known. We—Hurdle and myself—have been keep- ing our horrible discovery strictly secret, in order io give you every advantage to solve the myscery.” “And Miss James is connected with this my stery, as you term it?’ “She is, indeed!’ “ Well, l imagined so, but I told her we had better each see you separately, not knowi ing Just what you might have to say to each.’ **T think it is better. so—far better so. No knowing how the frightful discovery may affect her. 1 sent for her because “we think that she can greatly aid you in clearing up the case.’ “Well, what is the case? your stcry sir.” “ Rather, suppose I lead you direct to the discovery, and let you see it as we found it, without we previous impres- sion.’ “ Well, that is for you to say, sir. I am agree: ible to anything.” “Then we will go down.” The bank president arose from his seat motioned Dick to follow, and passed out into the bank proper. “I would haye you come with us,” he said to his cashier; “but it might not do for you to leave here. We have to be on the alert every moment, Mr. Peters, dur- ing business hours. Robberies are so numerous here in the West.” “Has your bank ever experienced any- thing of that sort?” “No; and we are anxious that it never shall. This way, please.” He opened a narrow door behind the bank safes, disclosing a slender staircase that led downward. He began the descent, Dick following, and at the bottom the president stopped and took a lantern from a peg, which he proceeded to light. “We will have need of this.” he re- marked, “for we are going still lower, where there is absolutely no light what. conservative, Let me have ever. “What! Still another cellar below this?” “Yes; and we did not know it until a short time ago—in fact, just before I sent for you.’ ““ And it was there that you made what you call the horrible discovery, eh? I begin to get the drift of the situation a little. *? “You guess aright. And, I may as well tell you something of the past history of the puilding before we proceed further. That will give you the situation just as we found it.” — ; “All right, sir.” “Some years erected—in fact, ago this building. was it was about the first camp had. It was used first as a gambling place, and then as a ! But &y what chance came nitrate bank. At that time the upper ! floor, the floor over fhe banking room, was still used for gambling purposes. “The came the time when Flush Flats was anything but flush in fact; the thing went uncer and the building was closed up. That was something like three years ago. The next year I formed a company and got hold of the Dauphin Mine; the town took on another boom immediately, and I began to look around for the owner of this nJding, 10 buy it. “T coud not fiad him, or them—for there were more than cne, and it was not until about a year ago that I did find them, and. then succeeded in buying the property: I took possession immediately, and opened, my bank, with my son-in-law as cashier and head man generally, and we have been doing a rushing business ever since. We came to the conclusion, a few weeks ago, that we must have a vault made, to be up to the times. “Examining the floor, we discovered a blind door leading down to a place still lower and going down to explore it, we came across the norror which I am about to show you * And the discovery of which, as you have told me, you have kept entirely se- cret, sending for me that I might, if pos- sible, help in the solving of what you are pleased to call a profound mystery. All right, lead on, Mr. Rashton, and we'll see what can be made of it.” CHAPTER VII. THD GRIM DISCOVERY. “Follow me,” and Mr. Rashton stepped down from the little landing at the foot of the stairs upon what seemed to be the solid earth. Earth it certainly was, and it was some time before Dick Bristol got the full un- derstanding of the situation and the clever ruse that somebody had been playing. The bank president led the way to the wall at one side, where he stopped and bade Dick look around. Here a hole had been made, flooring of planks was revealed. The earth had been put in to cover the floor. ‘“You see the trick?’ asked the presi- dent. “To hide a crime, this floor was covered six inches deep all over with earth, to make it appear like solid earth.” iy “Yes, I see; and a clever trick it was.” wept: might never have been discovered, or, at any rate, not until the plank tloor- ing had rotted away.” “You are right.” “But when we came down here we thought we would examine the nature of the bottom, and did so, which betrayed the trick immediately, and not only that, but more.’”” “That is to say, this trap door.” “Precisely. As if guided by Provi- dence, the first thrust of the pick struck this hinge, and when we had: scraped away the earth with a shovel, the door was revealed, and we opened it.” The door in question was about three feet square, In one edge was an iron ring, and on the opposite side were a pair of big hinges. ‘ While the banker held the light, Dead- wood Dick stooped and laid hold upon the ring and pulled the door up, laying it back and disclosing the hole beneath. There were no steps, but none were needed, for it was only a distance of three or four feet to the bottom, and the presi- dent let himself in with care not his clothes. “Come right on, sir,” he said, “but stop short when I give you the word.” “T am with you,” answered Dick, leap- ing lightly down. ¢ and 4 to soil —
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OO TD <LI “ ‘ . see. 6 . Deadwood Dick, J r., at Flush Flats, They had to stoop low, in order to be able to move, but the depth increased as they advanced. The ground sloped downward toward the center, in which way Rashton ad- vanced with the light, Dick right be- hind him, who soon saw the secret of the dismal hole into which they had pen- etrated. On the ground, lay a skeleton. “Stop!” said the president, when they had come within four feet of where the hideous reminder lay. ‘Do you see?” “T see,” said Diek. “Pxamine closely, sir.” Just where the skeleton lay was an iron stanchion, reaching from the bedrock to the summit of the building, supporting the central weight of the structure. Around this stanchion was a rusty chain, which also embraced the skeleton in a way horribly suggestive, and this chain was secured with two big locks. Nor was that all, as Dick looked yet closer, for between the jaws of the skel- eton was a short piece of chain, also se- cured with a lock. Dick would have stepped nearer, but the banker detained him. ‘No nearer, yet,” he ordered. ‘ Look still more closely, before you advance another foot. Would that we. had done so, in the first instance.” “Why, what do you mean? ?” asked the detective, in some surprise. Xxamine the ground.” Dick did so, and in a moment an. ex- elamation escaped him. “Ha! I see! The poor fellow, “by the only means- possible, has given us a clew!” “Tt might have beea a clew, Dead- wood Dick, had not Hurdle and myself trampled upon a portion of it before we discovered what it was, but now I fear it has been spoiled.” “T hope not.” “What we saw first was your name, there where you see it yourself.” There, in the ground—rather upon it, for the letters were raised— in letters of sand, was the name— DBPADWOOD DICK. | Pind under that, in similar letters, the in the center of the pit, word— AVENGE. “We must have known you,” said the banker. “Perhaps, but not necessarily so; he may have heard of me by reputation. What further wording remains?” “Take the light, step forward care- fully, and see for yourself.” On another section of an imagined cir- cle, and at the same distance from the stanchion, to which it was plain the man had been chained, Dick read these addi- tional words, similarly formed— JENNIE JAMES, 7 St. Paul. This, with the other, occupied a half of the circle, that half farthest from the trap door which opened into the place. On that side had been other words, but they had been trampled upon, as the bank president had explained. This was to be regretted. “Tt is too bad you did not see them sooner,” observed Dick. “Yes, indeed, too bad.” “And this gave you the idea of send- ing at once for the lady and myself, I Poor fellow!” “Who can he have been?’ “We must discover that, sir. - Now. _ let me see if I can make out anything of | these obliterated words.” He examined them closely, but only a few of the letters ie ae ae My -pealed to him with awful force; One was like this—and even then some of the letters were not perfect, but had to be guessed: +—OD— —R—LD ————-ul. And the other: —GE—— —Ds—. That was all that could be made out; absolutely all. But ‘it was sufficient for Deadwood Dick. Knowing what he did, it gave him the key. “What Rashton, “Tet gives me a clew, sir.”’ “ And you think you ¢an find the wretch who was so cruel, so heartless, as to chain a fellow creature here to die?’ “T think I can, and I will, too, if life is spared me. He appealed to me, and it shall not be an appeal in yain if Richard Bristol can do aught to carry out his desire.’ “God grant that you may be able to bring the guilty to justice,” said the president. “TI hope that I may, sir—in fact, I will, if the murderer is alive and I can strike his trail. And you may be able to help me by giving me more of the particulars of the history of this building, sir. This crime was probably done by the fellows who last controlled it.” can you make of it?’ asked “Ah! yes,: to: be sure, In fact, we have thought so, and yet it does nat seem possible that men of business could—. But some men are equal to anything, and the motive may have been great.” “Tr should not have been great enough for this atrocious deed!” “Phat is true, that is very true.” “We can read the signs:: This poor wretch was locked in Chains to this post, a gag of chain was placed in his mouth and locked there, and here he was left to die, miserably. Heavens! It was a cruelty unworthy the worst of savages! I will avenge it, yes, J swear that I will, as surely as Iam Deadwood Dick!” CHAPTER VIII. THE FRAGMENT LEFT. Deadwood Dick. spoke with almost fierce determination. There was something in all this that ap- it Was the strongest call he had ever reeeived for the exercise of his skill in uncovering crime and bringing guilty wretches to justice. The unexampled cruelty of the crime, and the appeal that had been made to him by the dying man, in the man- ner in which he e@ould: make any- thing known—it was enough—more than enough! “Shall we go?’ asked the president. “We may as well, I suppose.” “And what about this? make it known, now?” “ Decidedly not, sir. secret, in order to work in the We must keep it covery or 0° my identity.” “T see; better so.” “To make it known woud’ be to give the wretch an opportunity to get out of the country, and we must guard against that.” “You have only to direct me, Mr. Bris- tol, and I will do whatever you say, and so will Hurdle. The matter is known | only to us three, at present, and the cir- cle need not be widened.” “Tt must not be widened, positively, as’ I have said.” “What about the young woman? “Ah! that is so; she must be told. Shall we dark; not a soul must be informed of. this dis- And yet, her.” “Then you think the poor fellow was—” * Her lover!” * Indeed!” “You must keep this as secret as the rest of it, for the present. I think you had better not sée the lady yourself, but let me deal with her.’ “Tam mighty glad of the chance to let you do it) if what you say is true, that he was her lover.” “Then it shall be done that way. Have you looked around car efully for a further clew? That is, something that may have been dropped by the fellows when they put their victim here.’ ““No, we made no such seareh.” “Then I will do so before we go. It will save another trip down here, and I may possibly find something.” Dick still held the lantern, and began a careful search of the dismal hc in every part, but it was a useless one, for nothing was discovered that would throw more light upon the mystery. Coming again to the central space, he there examined more closely than ever the ground where the skeleton lay. Suddenly an exclamation. ; “What is it?’ asked Rashton. “Writing in the earth with this old nail!’ “Then possibly you have found the whole story. What does it say?’ “Worse luck, sir; we have trampled it almost out of sight; but a little of it remains.” “Read it! read it!’ “Which I am trying to do. Poor, fel- low, he no doubt found: this nail in. the boards over his head, and made use of it, after spending so much time making the larger letters.” “Better so, for the writing would. never have been discovered of itself.’ Dick was trying to decipher the further discovery which his’keen search had dis- closed. The writing was in big script in the soft. but firm clay that lay on the rock’ and formed the bottom or floor of the pit, but only a little of it now remained. All that could be made out was this: it will be a terrible blow to June’ 9 here by who has the pa- per where fortune is hid find to her Dick read this aloud as he deciphered it, geil “Then there was a fortune at stake, it scems,” said Rashton. “ So. it appears; and that is going to complicate matters, I am afraid. ame the fortune been found’ YM * Who'ean tell?’ “Well, it devolves upon me and my pard to find out. The murderer, I take it, has a paper that tells where it has beem concealed, and to find’ it we must first find him. Mr. Rashton, the motive for the crime grows deeper at every step.” “It certainly appears to, sir.” “Well, let us return to your office.” “ Yes; ‘for I will be glad enough to get out of here, I assure you.” “Not by any means a pleasant place. We will allow the skeleton to remain where it is, for the present:’” “You have use for it here?” “Tt may be useful here before the case terminates.” “You have only to command, Mr. ieee tol, and what you command shall be - carried out. I am determined that the terrible mystery shall be cleared.” They got up out of the hole, closed the trap after them, and ascended the stairs. leading to the ‘pank above, having put out the lantern below and replaced iis upon its Deg.
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“What do you think of it, sir,’ asked the cashier, in low , as ‘Die k passed him: “A shocking find, assuredly.” “You think you can clear it up?’ “T think I can, sir. I have never yet been, baffled in my pursuit of a death mystery.” Ale followed Mr. Rashton into the of- fice, where they took seats for further discussion. “Could I do otherwise you?” the banker asked. “Hardly, sir. And I am glad’ that you sent for the other party also, for she can give me the key to the whole, I feel certain.” ¢ “And I hope that you will enlighten me aS soon as you can do so.’ “TI will tell you something shortly, sir.’ “T am eager. “ Now, about the men who sold you this ilding; who are they, and where did you get on track of them?’ “T found them by advertising in the papers, telling what I wanted. A lawyer came here having power of attorney to Lunes than send for act for them, and I bought of him. I Saw no others.” “But you have their names?” “Yes; there were three of them—How- ard Jones, Richard Smith and Thomas Brown.” “A pretty good tray of names, truly, and I'll bet a house that not one of them is genuine. You see, this crime has stood in their way. Probably all are guilty.” * But you cannot believe that the. law- yer knew it?” “No, that was not necessary; maybe he did his part all in good faith. But Where was he from?” “Kansas City.” “And his name?” “ Richard Ketcham.” “ ‘And that is what my name has got to be, too. It will be of no use to adver- tise again, for that would only awaken Suspicion, now.” (“That’sso.” “But I have a trump to play.” “What is that?’ “The fortune, provided that it has not been discovered.” * “And how will you make use of that? I fail to see, clearly, what you can do.” “It may be the means of luring some of their gang to this place. You let me work‘ that, quietly, and watch the papers here for mention of it. I will see that it goes in to-morrow.” “And, meantime, Seb will talk with ‘Miss James, so that I will be spared the painful interview?” “Yes, I will see to that, Mr. Rashton,” and Mr. Peters took his leave. . CHAPTER IX. A CHEAP BARGAIN. Deadwood Dick returned to the hotel. There he discovered that a man was awaiting his coming and that ne per- sonage was a “character.” { e sample under pointes dn: was a big, broad, lubberly fellow, wiih a face like the rising sun, and arms as big as the legs of the average man. His name was John Samson, but, owing to an impediment in his speech, he was known as “Stuttering” Samson. He could not string a dozen words together without | -_ gtuttering, to save his life. _ When he had plenty of time he usually | stuttered it out, but if in a hurry, or hist message was Important. he would sing—’ for he could sing like a lark. and without the suggestion of an impediment. times he was called “Singing” ree but - aha wat often otherwise. . Some- : He was nies by the hotel steps. Putting up one of his ponderous arms, he signaled the sport in velvet to stop, beginning: “S—s-s-—ay, are they k—k—k—aeall P—p—pure; the: P—p culiar?” “ Well, yes, my man, that is what I am ealled,’” Dick answered; “but not quite so peculiar as you make it appear.” “Tl m—m—m—make it m—m—m—more you the f—f—feller S—s—s—s—s—imon “p—p—p—p pe pe- p—p—p—p—pe—peculiar than that, be— be—before I g—g—g—go. I wa—wa—waunt to h—h—have about f—f—f—f—f—five m—m—m—M—M—m—n— mines’ t—t— t—t—t—ttalk—”’ . “Tf that is the case, let us sit down,” suggested Dick. “It will probably take us an hour and a half, at your rate of going, and I will enjoy a cigar while you are making known your business. Come up on the piazza, and we'll take chairs, and you can take your time—” *N—n—n—no! h—h—h—hold on! I wa—wa—wa—want you right here. I have b—b—been s—s—s—s—sert to. I— 1—l—1—1—lick you, and—”’ *QOh, ho! that is it, eh? Weil, if you can’t fight any faster than you can talk, you had better give it up before you be- gin, is my advice. You will find that you have undertaken a b’g job.” “Well, if I can’t ta: I can sing,’ break- ing out in tune, ‘and I can fight just as good as I can sing, you bet!’ “Well, you are a warbler, sure enough; and if I were you I would never do any- thing else but sing. But who sent you to give me this licking you speak of? I must protest, you understand.” * And it is only natural that ye would, I should say., A man has given me five dollars to come up here and whale the daylights out of you, and I can’t think of lettin’ a snap like that go by, ye see. I hope you're ready.” “ Well, hold on a minute till I get the hang of it. Who is the man who sent you?” $7 Mister. Sanford Mainard; tu—ra—ly, ri—laddy.” “ Ah! self?” “Well, he k—k—k—k—k—k—couldn’t, and s—s—s—s—s—s—s—”’ “Oh, sing it, my friend; I enjoy your singing a great deal better than your talking, I assure you.”’ “ Anything to oblige; ri—tu, ri~—lu, ri— laddy—oh! He didn’t want to wrinkle his shirt, and so he sent me; and as he can lick me, it is all the same, you see.” ~ “He can whip you, then?” — “ Y—y—y—y—yes.’ “Then he made a mistake in sending you to do me up, I give you fair notice, I'll tell you what I'll do.” “What is that? Te—du—dum—diay.” “J will give you five dollars not to whip me, and that will let you out of it, easy enough. You ean hand him back his five and still be as well off—yes, a good deal better off.” \ “Well, now, mister, doodle—doodle— day; I have got a great big notion that I can do it all right, all right, and if you have got a fiver to put up I'll bet you even that I can; then I'll be ten dollars to the good; you see?” “TY would like to take some of the con- IT see. Why didn® he come him- ‘ceit out of you, my friend, but it is too warm to fight. T won't fight. but Twill do as T said, and you can’t make five dollars any easier, In fact, I will make it ten, for I have nothing against you. and had rather not do you any mischief. Here is the money: take it and £0 and hand the other fellow back his five.” “Well, hang me ag y-y-J—-J—-J—-J— i we ee ae A ae OS a + ee bstanessiehitihe Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats. 7a sing it!” enjoined Dick. you ain’t a liberal cuss, you was buyin’, * Sing it, “Hang me if anyhow! Looks as if off.” “Yes, that is just what 1 am. doing. Here, take your money and git, for ft have no more time to monkey away with you.” The bank were taking it of Rashton’s office, they were smiling reason to smile. A crowd had gathered around, drawn by Stuttering Samson's singing, and they, appeared to be disappointed at the pros-' pect of losing the fun of a \fight between the velvet sport and the,man of the sore affliction; but Samson was still hesitating about aecepting it. ~ 99 president and his cashier ail-in from the window over the way, and broadly, with good ““S$—s—s—s—say, oa a—d— d—d—”’ “Sing!” once more ordered. Dick. “T don’t know about it; Mainard will think I'm ‘fraid of ye, and that would never do.” “ Well, make up your mind quick,” said Dick. ‘Hither take the ten dollars or take a whipping, and in that case you will: be out and injured all around. ' What de! you say?” “T'll take the t-—t—t—t—ten. g—g—go and re—re—re—” “Sing, confound you, sing!’ “Tl take the ten and go and report, re—tu, re—lu, re—laddy,” he sang. ‘* A bird in the hand is werth two in the bush; re—tu, re—lu, re—laddy, oh?’ “Sensible man; here is the money. If Mainard wants anything out of me, tell him to come. and get it himself. He, w.ll find ine at home any time he and I will try my best to give him full and complete satisfar ction. Don’t let get you into trouble.” With that Dick mounted the” steps and Stuttering Samson went off, with a good! share of the crowd jeering after him, They called him a coward, and one or two, at the rear, hinted that Simon Pure was the same he began. and g—g— It was certainly a “peculiar” way of getting, out of a muss. OCOHAPTER X. THE VILLAIN SEEN. But Dick Bristol paid no heed. Hée at once went into the house, and to the so-called parlors, where he found. his pard, who had been awaiting his com- ing, and who had witnessed from the window, behind the blinds, his interview, with Samson. She had run down her cheeks. “T thought you were going to be eaten alive, Simon,” she playfully remarked. ** Maybe I shall be, when the other fel- low comes to see me. IT must look for him, now, at any moment. Sy * I do net believe he will come, for his position will not allow him to stoop to a common fight; but he will probably raise your ante and send the stuttering pugilist back again.” * T did not think of that; maybe he will, Well, if he does, I shall have to undertake the job, that is all.” “ But now, Simon, when am I to expect Mr. Rashton?’”’ . “Not at all. He has requested me to make known the’ whole situation and let you know why you were sent for.” “Then pray sit down and let me ‘hear. the story, for IT am full of curiosity, yo may be: Sure. have been thinking. how much of it’ I ought to tell you, and how much : withhold from you. In the first, place, I must prepare you for pad news. ealls,,, him had laughed, quietly, ‘until tears:
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Soin OS ig hs Be ‘T forgot for the time being!” Rs Ber AR a — RE ee eaere—oege ee Sa we — 8 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats. — ae The girl’s face blanched. “Then it is as I have feared?” asked. “Yes; as you surmised, my pard.” “That he is dead?” and she dropped her head, and for some moments was si- lent, as if struggling with deep emotion. “Well, I have been so long prepared for it,” she said, presently, lifting her eyes, “that it is less of a shock. I can stand all the rest you have to tell me, now. But. first of all, one question. Was he murdered ?” “Yes, he was, undoubtedly.” “ As I feared—as I suspected.” “T think you can bear it all, and I think. it best to tell you everything, so that we can work together.” . “Yes, yes, we must do nothing back.’ : “Well, I will. But nerve -yourself, so that you can endure it, for otherwise it may overcome you.” “T cannot understand what you mean; you have said he was murdered; what worse Zan there be than that? But, say, do you know who killed him?” “TI suspect.” * Whom?” * Brandson.” “As I thought. Ah! now that I know, I live for vengeance, and for that only.” “ But, remember, he is innocent until we can prove him guilty, Miss James.” “My own heart tells me that he is guilty. But the story; let me hear all chat you have learned.” So Diek proceeded and told the whole matter, bringing it out as delicately as possible, but even that could not rob it of any of its horror. Before he had done the girl was pac- ing the floor before him, wringing her hands, her face a picture of pitiful an- guish; But, no sooner had he ceased speaking, than she lifted her hands and she that; keep . cried out: “ High Heavens, bear me! I vow that this crime shall be avenged, and that this wretch shall die by my hands! Poor— poor Dory!” She sank down upon a chair, utterly overcome. “T have already registered a similar yow,” said Dick. ‘“ We will work upon the case together, and we will bring him ' to the fate he deserves.” “No, no; it must be I, and I alone, to deal with him, after he has been dise covered! Say that you will turn him over to me, or we must break our bargain here and now, and I will go on alone!” “T agree. Doing that, I will be do- ing, probably, just what he would have me do.” “Yes, yes; be sure of that!” “ And then this fortune is to be found, if it has not already been discovered.” “Poor Dory! It is plain that he was keeping his vgw that he would win riches; but how much better for us both if he had never undertaken the mission! And yet. who can tell—” “Can tell what?” “He might have been murdered just the same.” “And perhaps you as_ well. Such a villain would stop at nothing, that is cer- tain.” *T believe you. Well, T suppose T must keep my word with Maud, and tell her of this terrible discovery.” “Great Scott! That is something that “You know T pledged her_ my word that I would tell her whatever I happened earn?” é Tet novel to keen it entirety still, in or- der to work secretly. To fell her may Up- set the game for us at this important mo- ment.” NN eee “T am not bound to give her any of the particulars.” “That is what I was going to advise. You can tell her the main fact; that is all that you need to do. That will be keeping your word with her.” “Yes; that must suffice. I will inform her that Dory is dead, and that our search is at an end. But, she may not believe me, and instead, may think I am trying to deceive her.’ “Well, she must think what she will.” *T see no other way out of it. And now, what is going to be done? How can we get on the track of the wretch and run him to earth?” Thereupon Deadwood Dick gave her his views, and explained a plan that had come to his mind as the first step to be taken, and she approved of it. At that moment Dick noticed the woman give a great start, and instantly she whip- ped a revolver from the inside of her coat. He sprang and caught her arm. “What's up?’ he demanded, and fol- lowed her gaze, looking out between the slats of the closed shutters. “That man!” she hoarsely gasped. “It is he—the one who just passed the bank!’ “Brandson, you mean. Is that the man?” “Yes, yes; and I am glad that you checked me. To shoot him thus would be no revenge at ali.” “And would only get you into serious frouble, from which even I might not be able to extricate you. No, no; you must do nothing so mad as that. But, you are positive?” “Heavens! Do you suppose that I can be mistaken?’ . “And he is in no disguise?” ‘‘He used to wear a beard, but now he has none; that is all the difference.” “Well, I will form his acquaintance, and see what I can learn, on the sly. He can have no reason to suspect me. We must know what has brought him here.” “And I must take good care that he does not recognize me. But he certainly will do that, and Maud, too, if he happens to meet herng I am afraid he will take alarm.” : “We must take care that she does not spoil the game for us. Suppose you see if she is in her room, and ask if you and I may see her there for a chat. Tell her you have discovered something.” CHAPTER XI. COMPLICATIONS. The young woman nodded assent, and hurried out. Dick took the chair she had just vacated and watched the man pointed out. The fellow entered the Odeon, farther down the street, and did not reappear be- fore the return of Nobby Nancy, bringing with her Star Sterling. “You want to see me, sir,” the latter asked. “Yos, Please take a seat.” “What is your business with me?’ ‘‘Has Miss James told you nothing?” “She said you have news for me.” “Yes, I have. Sit down, and let us talk seriously about a serious matter. There is reason why you two ladies should work together now.” “Neyer! .We are against each other, first and last!” ; “You mean that you were. Sit down and hear me out, and you will see that I am right.” . : “Then you have learned— and’ she be- came pale. . “Nobby. tell her, as you agreed.” “Wo have learned positively that Dory Barefield is dead,” explained Nobby Nan- | ey, sorrowfully. must tell me everything if you expect.me to believe you. How can I be sure that this is not a trick of yours?” “It is the truth,” interposed Dick. “TI am in Miss James’ employ, and have dis- covered the awful truth, in part. He was murdered, and we suspect that Brandson did the deed.” * Brandson? that!” “And we have found that Brandson is right here in the camp.” “Here? Then my revenge shall be had! I will wateh for him, and will slay him for his crime!” “You must go slow about that,” pro- tested Dick. ‘We have got to prove that he is guilty, first; then we can bring the crime home to him, all working together.” ‘No; I must deal with him myself! I must be the avenger!” ‘“You shall not,’’ said Dick, sternly. “I will not allow it.’’ : f How will you hinder, let me ask you, sir?” “ By placing you’ under arrest, if neces- sary, which I have authority to do.” Oh, curse him, if he did “And what do you want me to do, _ then ?” “Let me tell you, and then you can de- eide. In the first place, what if Brandson should see you? Would he not recognize you?” “T suppose he would.” “And would immediately suspect trou- ble.” “With good reason, too! I would kill him, had I the chance.” “T hope you will listen to reason, and not stand in your own light. He must not see you.” “ How can it be prevented “‘T mean, he must not see you to know you. You can plead a cold, and not sing at the Odeon, and we three must work against him to prove his guilt beyond ques- tion.” “ And what then?” “Then will come your swect revenge, if you loved the murdered man as well as you claim.” “ And what of her?” with a jerk of the hand toward Nobby Nance. “Well, what eof her?” asked Dick. “There is no longer anything for you to fight over; you can join forces and work against the man who has injured both of you alike.” Dick had a delicate game to play, and doubted whether he would be able to play it successfully, with two such unruly eards in his hand, The two young women looked at each other fiercely. “T have not heard all,” reminded Maud. “You have not told me how you came to know what you do.” “Nor shall you know,” cried Nobby Naney. “It was a mistake to think that you and I couid agree to work together, even with Dory dead. We are foes to the last!" | Ke “T do not believe that he is dead!” “ And I care not whether you do or not. I have told you the mournful fact, as I agreed to do. Had I not agreed you never would have known it from my lips, rest assured of that.” “Ladies, this will not do,” Deadwood Dick protested. “I give you my word, Miss Weille, that Theodore Barefield is dead—that he was cruelly murdered, and I ask you to aid me in putting the crime where it belongs.” “How ean I aid? “By doing nothing to awaken suspicion in the mind of this fellow Brandson, until I have had time to. prove whether he is guilty or not.” “You said that he did the deed.” \ 99 . ” ” “Dead? Where, when, how? You nee aye eS a) 2 Ry ae wo te Ne, = es See eae a Sea es Shoe
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a 4: a Fy Pe ee eee es ee ee ee . 55 - -* Ba -" Ct pe ee eee eee et Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Vashi Flats. 9 —_ —. *“No; I said we suspect that he did it, that was all.” “Well, that is enough. I will find out, and when I do, let him look well to him- self,” With that, she left the room. Dick and his pard looked at each other. “Here is a mess,” inferred . Dick, “What's to be done?” “ And all because I would not heed what you asked of me.” * What was that?’ “Not to tell her of the discovery. “Well, you had pledged your word, and you did not want to break it. Your ex- cuse was valid. My own move was bad.” “What move?” “Thinking that I could bring her and you together for the one common purpose of revenge. That was not to be thought of, and I should have given it more weight before acting.”’ “Tt is all done now.” “Or undone. Well, let us drop it. We still hold the secret, and, even if she does confront Brandson, she can prove noth- ing, and she will probably keep still as to how she gor her information.” “Why will she do that?’ “ Because Brurdson loves you, as you have told me, and you would be able to secure the better chance for revenge.” “Ha! You have given me a thought. Can we not play that ecard?” **How.?”’ “Let me meet him, as if by accident, pretend to know nothing of the death of Barefield, and appear as if my love had cooled. That may lead him to confide Something that will entrap him!’ “Not likely that it will, but it is a card to hold in reserve. We are approaching a climax of some sort.’ “T agree with you.” - “The fact that all are here together, is suggestive. Now, I must go and make tho acquaintance of this man, and when I have done that, one step will have been gained.” “ And what am I to do meantime?” “Avoid him, and keep your eye upon your rival, as much as possible, ‘to see What she is doing.” “Very well; I understand. There must be no failure, Mr. Bristol, no matter what arises. I trust to you to bring about my time of vengeance, and then I will do my part.” Dick left the hotel, and bent his steps in the direction of the Odeon. His mind was busy, for he now had a most delicate game to play, and it de- manded his utmost tact. Of course, his duty was to bring the guilty ones to justice, and he must use these two women to that end, yet let them think they were each having it her own way. He would avenge the dead man who had so touchingly appealed to him, but by means of the law only. But, could he thwart the faithful woman who had taken oath that the guilty wretch should die by her hand? And, could he keep the rivals from doing anything rash before the crime could be brought home to the fellow? With these things in mind, he did not notice the approach of a man. CHAPTER. XII. DICK GAINS’ A POINT The man was Stuttering Samson. Dick did not observe him till he came face to face with him in front of the Odeon. Then he nected that quite a crowd had followed the bully, and understood at once that the trouble with him was going to be renewed, tf S—s—s—say,” Samson began to stut- ter, “I have g—g~—g—got to d—d—d—d—” ,”? “Tf you have got : seein to say to me, | sing it,” exclaimed Dick, impatiently. “I! hate to be stuttered at in that fashion.” “Well, I don’t blame you for that, for I wouldn’t like it myseif, I know. Here is your ten dollars; I have got to lick you, or take a lickin’ myself, and as’ I don’t want to do that, you have got to be the | sufferer!’ ““Mainard told y “That’s rido!” “Well, keep the ten dollars, for it will be worth that much to you, at any rate, to get twice whipped the same day.” “What do you mean? ding—a—long— dido!” To save time he sang. “You said Mainard could whip you, did you not?” “That is just what is the matter with Hanner; to—ra—loo—ra—loo—day, —loo—ra—loo!” ‘He was musical, and, starting a bar, he had to carry out the measure with mean- ingless words, if he had nothing further to say. * Well, I know well enough that I can 99 rou that?’ what . did; rol, de—rol, de— to—Tra do the same,” averted Dick, “and so you are in for a-double dose, you see. Now, if you will take a little sound advice, I am willing to give it.” “Well, w—w—w—what is it?’ “You will admit that two good things are better than one, I suppose.”’ “C—c—c—c— certainly.” “And one bad thing is not as bad as by the same standard. take one whipping, and two bad things, You had better omit the other.” “JT d—d—-don’t k—k—k—k—kKetch on.” “The tiouble is, you seem to eatch all the time, When you talk. What I mean is this: If you go back to Mainard and re- port that you can’t whip me, then you will | get but one w hipping, but if you are fool- , ish about it—” “K—k—k—k—k—k—confound you! Do you mean to say that I can't do it? “That is my impression, decidedly.” “Well, I'll have to take that impression out of you, by the jumpin’ too—ra—loa ra—loo—ra—loo—ra—laddy—oh!” “T see you are bound to have it, my! friend, but I warn you once again that you are running up against the Simon Pure article when you run up against me, and I am. peculiar in more ways than one, too.” ° * And- you will find that I’m peculiar, too; sing—a—hey day, ding—a—dong—3— daddy!” “You will sing Are you ready?” “T’'m waiting, my darling, for thee!” “ Well, I won't keep thee waiting; wade ' right in and set your machine to running.’ "You just bet your life I will do that, and you'll find it runs much better than my tongue; whang, dang, dey, de—deydo!” The crowd was laughing and hooting and enjoying the fun immensely. Dick was keeping an eye out everywhere in his usual manner, and saw the stranger come from the Odeon, with the others who came pouri ing out to see the sport. He ha-ia chance for a good look at the stranger before the exercises commenced. Another man seemed to be in company with him—a tall, dark fellow, who had a nervous manner and restless gaze. This was about all Dick had time to ob- serve before Stuttering Samson was com- ing for him, but he had made mental photo- raphs of their faces and would know them at sight. “M—m—m—mind your eye!’ stuttered : Samson. “T'll try to. What will you give me to | cure you of stuttering?” iy Everything I’ve g—g—g—g—got in the doidethine else, shortly. w—w—w—w—world, clear d—d—d—down t—t—io m—m—m—my sh—sh—sh—sh—sh— shirt.” He had to stop out of range long enough to stutter that out, for he could not do anything else when he had stuttering to do, and the fight had to wait for him to finish. “ Well, I will knock it half out of you,” assured the man in velvet, “and your employer can finish the job when he takes you in hand, if he is a man of his word.” “ S—s*-s—s—s—say 7?’ “ Well?” “kk —k—-k—_k—_k—_k—can you k—k-~- k—*x—k—k—cure it?’ “Well, I don’t know. I once cured 3 man from looking cross-eyed, and perhaps T can cure you.” “How was that? ri—too—ri—laddy?”’’ Hager to hear, he saved time by singing. “Why, he took a notion to go for me, about as you are doing, only under differ- ent circumstances, and nothing I could do would make him desist. And, by the way, J had rather fight with a woman than with a cross-eyed man; that is one of my pecu- liarities; you can never tell where he is going to strike. I paid no attention to the way he seemed to be looking, for I knew it wasn’t safe, but I watched his big fists, and when they began to play, I struck out and tapped him on the forehead. When he came to his eyes were as straight ag yours.’ The crowd roared, and Stuttering Sam- son had to laugh with them. “ Why, you are not so unfortunate, after all,” cried Dick, jocosely. ‘You can laugh without stuttering as well as sing; you have not much to complain about, my friend.” This seemed to exasperate the fellow in- stantly, since the laugh turned against his misfortune. Without stopping to do any more stutter- ing, or even to sing, he made a dash for- ward, as if seeking 'a- -similar cure for his affliction. He got it—the dose—without any waste of time, whether effective or not, and away he went, end over end, until he was stopped by some of the bystanders, who laid him tenderly on the und. Dick had given him one of his peculiar straight shoulder hits. “That was about the hardest crack I ever witnessed,” cried out the fellow in the light suit. “Why, hello, Harrison!’ eried Dick, ad- yaneing quickly snd holding out his hand. “What in creation has brought you away out in this part of the— Blazes! I guess I have made a mistake.” He stopped suddenly, on coming nearer, and stared at tre man. “Yes, you have made a mistake,” said the stranger, “for my name is not Harri- son, and never was: but, all the same, I: would like to shake hands with you.’ “Well, here you'are, then! I fever saw two men look more alike, ‘at first sight. I see a difference now.’ “My name is Gimon Peters,” continued Dick. “They call me the Peculiar, because I am a little peculiar in some of my ways.” * And that tap on the head was one of the wavs.’ “Well, yes; that is one of my peculiari- ties.’ “Do you think you have cured him of his testo” *“T hone I have not kitle? him.” “No; he beins to peep.” of | hope T have cured him of his desire to monkev with me, anvhow. But, by the wor. introdnes yoanrself,” Dick’s manner was hearty, and the two men took to him. “My name is Hardy Blaker. My friend here is Mr. John Ormsted.” ' One ole ad
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= ‘a eo ¥ Se oa - aie ahs a Ss yar = oran ‘de naa av minis) 9 t Ape _ kind on hand?’ 10: “Pleased to know you,” avowed Dick. | “TY talk business all the time, “Won't you come in here and crook your elbows at niy expense? I'll make up fer the misiake | made, and it will be a good way to get out of sight of this fellow.” “ Why, certainly, we will take something with you, for we are strangers here, and want to make some friends.” “ Well, [ am a stranger myself, for that matter, but you will find that I am the real stuff, when you come to sample the package. Come right in and say what your poison shall be.” So saying, Dick led the way, and they entered the Odeon. CHAPTER XIII. A SLICK STORY. Deadwood Dick advanced to an unoc- cupied table a litle out of the way, and drew out chairs. ae The trio sat down, and Dick gave an or- der for wine and cigars. “Tm glad to meet two such fellows as you seem to be,” he remarked, “being a stranger here myself.” “And we are glad to meet a fellow like you,” declared the one calling himself Hardy Blaker. “ By the way, what is your business, Mr. Peters?” asked Ormsted. “ Well, a little of anything that prom- ises money. I am not really particular what it is. What's yours?” * About the same.”’ ‘Perhaps we can come closer to the point when we get better acquainted. I never speak rigkt out to strangers until I have given them a chance to prove up, and I take it that it’s the same with you.” They looked at each other. : “Well, you are blunt,” averred Blaker. “Yes, I make that a rule; it is one of my peculiarities, I suppose.” “You seem like a good sort of fellow to tie to, anyhow. Where do you hail from?” “T hardly know where. I have seen nearly the whole country, but have never stopped long enough in one place to call it home. I am a rover, pure and simple, is all I can say.” “You look like a sport “Tam,” “A card sharp?” “ Well, yes, tnd no; I am handy with the eards.”’ “You seem reticent.” “ Well, to speak right out, I am looking for a fortune, and don’t particularly care how I get it.” The two men exchanged glances again. “You mean that you have got your eye on one?’ asked Blaker. “No, not that. I mean that I would like to have. You see, I am tired of being poor.” “Ha! ha! That is about the way with every poor man, I believe. We are fellows of a kind, in that respect. Not that we are beggars, but we are not rolling in riches.” “Wecan shake hands then.” The wine had been brought, and they were drinking and smoking socially. Their talk ran on for a long time, and their friendship seemed to grow in strength rapidly. Deadwood Dick, needless to say, was appearing to play into their hands. “Say, are you good at solving secrets suddenly asked Blaker. “ Well, it is according to what it is,” an- swered Dick. “Did you ever try your hand at a diffi- cult enigma?” asked Ormsted. “There was a time when it took a diffi- cult one to stick me,” was the careless re- sponse. “Have you got something of that ” 7” 2 j Again an exchange of glances. _ “See here; suppose we talk business,” intimated Blaker. ; asserted Dick. ‘I am wide open to propositions.” ‘““Well, we have got a puzzle to solve, and if you want to’go into it with us we will give you a share of the profits, pro- vided you cam be of any use to us. What say?” ‘Count me in, if there is any real money in prospect.” — “There is, and niaybe a good round for- tune.” : “Then I am your man.” “Good enough; and I’ll tell you thy story just as it is, but first I'll fill my glass again.” Their glasses were all filled anew, and they setiled down to -enjoy their cigars, while Blaker unfolded his tale. * We were down in the City of Mexico,” he began, ‘when we came across a chap who was pretty well off at the heel, and who seemed in distress in more ways than one, being a stranger in a strange land, and, as he was a fellow countryman, we took pity on him and gave him a boost. “The fellow seemed to want to get fur- ther away from home, and said he had a secret to sell, if we wanted to buy, and he kept at us so much that finally we thought we would investigate and see what there was in it, as he deelared there was a for- tune at stake for the lucky finder, and he said that he alone possessed the key to the hiding-place. : } ‘Like you, Mr. Peters, we were on the lookout for a fortune, and when he put it in that light we were not long in biting. We heard his story, examined the paper he had, and feeling that it was worth risk- ing the small amount he demanded of us, we paid him the money, took the paper, and parted. He went off to the south, and we struck out for home, and here we are on the ground, to look for the fortune, if there is one.” “Maybe it was only a fake,” opined Dick. “Well, possibly, but the fellow swore that he had good reason to think the for- turfeé was there.” “ Had he ever tried to find it?” “Yes; but failed.” “And he knew it was in this part of the country?” “This very place, or in this neighbor- hood.” ; “Then I'll tell’you what I'll do: Give me a sixth of whatever is found, and I will ga in with you and do my best.” * Agreed!” from both. “ All right!’ declared Dick, “it is a bar- gain. When shall we begin the search? I am eager, now that you haye taken me in with you. I suppose you have told me all?” y ; “Yes; you have heard everything there is to tell, and now we will show you the paper.” “Yes, ‘the paper, that’s so; I can’t be of much use to you until I see that.” Y ‘“‘Ts this a good place to examine it?” “Well, no, I should say not,” said Dick. “There are too many standing around al- ready. .Secrecy is better now. Why not come to my room at the hotel?” “ All right, we'll go there.” All three left the place, going up the street to the Fifth Avenue Hotel. Dick felt somewhat of concern lest Star Sterling, seeing them coming, might try a shot at Brandson, and was afraid, too, that they might meet Nobby Nancy.: Neither of these things happened, how- ever, and they reached ‘the room without | adventure.” Dick drew the Ym he and chairs near the window, and invited his companions to be seated. : All were sober enough, yet they had enough wine inside to make them very friendly and confidential, and Dick felt | cocaine to Deadwood Dick, J r., at Flush Flats. them out. F Blaker took a packet from his pocket, which he opened carefully. It contained a sheet of paper, on which was drawn a rude map, with marks here and there, and letters and numbers, ‘““Now, there it is, Simon Pure,’ he re- marked, ‘‘and if you can make head or tail of it you are a Simon Pure, and no mis- take. We have come here determined to find it this time or bu’st.” They had been there before, then? But that, of course, Dick well enough knew. The story of the man in Mexico was all a myth. Dick took the paper and studied it well. CHAPTER XIV. THE EAYESDROPPER. “Could you find any of these points?’ Dick musingly asked. “Not a blasted one of ’em!’’ asseverated Blaker. “That was the trouble; we couldn’t get the start.” Dick had to smile, to see how neatly the man dropped into the wap. “And where haye you searched?” Dick further asked. “There is no use going over the same ground twice. Onee we can get a starting point, the rest ought to be easy.” “Well, we searched all around here, but in a hurry—. Mind, I am speaking for the man we saw in Mexico.” “ Certainly; I understand that,’ Dick waived. ; ““You see, he tol@ us so plainly all about it that it seems as if we had been here ourselves. He named every building in the place, almost.” ( “Then it is not long since you saw him?” * Only-a little while.’ ‘And not long since he was here?” “He had just come from here.” “Then his search was recent, of course, and he could give you a good, clear under- standing of it.” ‘Just as I said; so real that it seemed as if we had been here on the ground ourselves. That’s why I spoke the way I did, you see.” fs “Well, we are all pards, now, and you might as well keep right on speaking so, as far as the fellow gave you any. light. And..if the search in and near the town has been made, we must branch out and strike new ground.’ “That looks reasonable.” “Tt is the only thing to do. shall we begin?” “To-morrow will be time enough, I should say; no use breaking our necks about it.” “Just what I was going. to propose,” assured Dick. ‘‘ That will give me more time to make a study of this rather enig- matic map, and maybe I can hit upon the key if I take time for it.” “That's so.” “ But, I didn’t think; you will not want to leave it.in my care. (I desire nothing that does not look fair, and that would When give me a chance to profit by it. . No, you keep it till we meet again.” “Nonsense!” ¢ried Ormstead. “We know that you are all right, Peters, and we trust you.” — ‘ Certainly,” agreed Blaker. ‘‘ You keep the paper.” ‘ ‘No, I won't do it,” decided Dick. ‘It is yours, and I have no right to have it~ alone in my possession. I won’t take the responsibility. ean do, and that will be fair for all.” “What is that?’ em ; . “Come to my room agaim to-night, and we will give it a careful stv then. I * But [ll tell you what we - will have some wine and cigars on hand, —
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Deadwood Dick, J r., at Flush Flats. . way to spend get better ac- Wg and it will be a pleasant the evening, and we can quainted.” “Well, we’ll be there, . Dick had been studying the paper with ” you bet. eare, even while talking, and ’had fixed its points well in mind. He now folded it and returned Blaker. “Take mighty good care of it,’ he cau- | tioned. ‘If you lose it we are dumped, and I am anxious to come in for my share of the find.” “Don’t have any fear of my losing it; I have earried it too long to lose it now— that is, having carried it so far, all the way from Mexico here. I Gan guard it as well as its former owner.” * Yes, I understood what you meant.” “Then we'll meet to-night. What time ?’’ “Well, fix that to suit yourselves.” “Say nine o’clock, then. That will be about right, I guess,” said Blaker. “That suits me,’ acquiesced Dick. “You will find me here when you come, and then for a hard study of the map.” “ Are you going out again?’ ‘Not. now; = T’ll take a rest, I think, before dinner.” “Well, so long, pard, and hope we'll be successful. See you later.” “Yes, see you later,’ responded Dick. “Take care that no one else gets into the thing with us.” So they parted, the two going out and Dick remaining. Not one of them was aware: that they had had a listener, but such was the fact, nevertheless; and that listener had been Star Sterling. She had overheard all that had been spoken loud enough for her acute ears to catch. A pipe-hole between her room and the one occupied by Deadwood | Dick lad , given her the advantage. . She had seen the three men come out of the Odeon, and, hearing them enter Dick’s room, had taken advantage of the hole we have mentioned. On Dick's side of the partition the hole was behind a stand, and he had no knowl- edge of its existence. As soon as the men had paced the floor. “Well, the ball is rolling,” he mused, “and the trap is set. Now it only re- mains to play well the rest of the game, - .,. and the thing is done. A quicker case than I ever imagined it would be. But it to gone, Dick - , ‘the hand of fate seems to be in it, send- jing the fellows here just at this ! time.” While he was pacing up and down, thinking, there Came a knock at the door. He opened it and Nobby Nancy en- & tered. *“T could not wait for you,” she said. “T had to come and ask you how you ever did it, and what you found out?’ * Oh! by letting them think they were + doing it all themselves.” ‘““And what have you learned?” » “That they are here in search of the fortune, with the original paper in their possession.” } “Phen they are the guilty ones with- out a doubt. Is it not proof enough in itself?” - thas . “Yes, to satisfy us, but we must have ih such proof as will convince others, if bh » need be.” * “No matter about others; I am the one eae to be convinced, and, once convinced, I will aet.” “But you must do nothing rash or in haste: Remember, your lover left it to ; hi me to avenge his death. The fortune he { vere to “you.” : “How do we know that?” “Judging by the fragment of writ- ‘ ; ‘ i : t ll ing I discovered. And, there is only one way to find the fortune.” “And what is that way?’ “By my keeping in with these fellows and working with them. All of.us to- gether may be able to bring it to light.” “T know you do not mean what you are saying.” ! “Why not?” “You have no need of their aid, if once you get that paper into your possession. Your aim is to hold back my -avenging hand; I can see through that. But you shall not do it.” “Nor will I try to do it. I see it is use- less. | IT will aid you in your scheme first, and then, together, you and I will search for the fortune, and it shall be yours, as your lover intended. But we must take care to let nothing be known, or all may be lost.’ CHAPTER XY. COUNTER-PLOTTING. Perhaps it was fortunate that they had held their more important conversations earlier. The listener was still at her post, but what she heard further scarcely repaid her for the time spent. But she had heard enough—too much, in fact, already. Early after dinner Maud went to the Odeon. Dick saw her leave the hotel, and no- ticed that she wore a vail, from which he drew the wrong conclusion. She entered the place by the rear way. and, once within, sent a boy in quest of Sanford Mainard, with the message that she desired to see him immediately for something important. Mainard responded promptly. “Well, you have made up your mind?” he asked at once, “ee Yes, 9 * And what is your answer ?’ “It is yes.” A smile came over the manager’s face immediately, save where the suggestive lump was on his forehead, and he took a step forward quickly, but the young woman waved him back. “Wait! Hear all!” she manded. “Ts not that all?” “No, it is not; there is a condition,” “Let me hear it, and immediately.” “T intend to do so. I will marry you, Mr. Mainard, if you will first aid me in obtaining a revenge and in cheating a hated rival out of the fortune she is try- ing to find.” “You talk in, riddles.” “T once told you that I could never wed you because I had a lover living.” “Yes, you told me that.” “Well, now he is dead, and I must avenge his death. That done, and the fortune secured, I am yours. This is something that you can do for me, and at the same time benefit yourself.” “JT stand ready to do that, of course.” “ And you can have some révenge, too.” ; ; “ How is that?’ . “The man I am working against, in searching for the fortune, is the one who knocked you down—" “Curse him!” “The girl with him is the rival I speak of, and while I would not care to ‘harm her bodily, I do want to cheat her out of the fortune her lover left to her when he was murdered.” “ Murdered 2” y “Yos:; and his murderer is in town here, at this minute. He must die by my hand, or through me, and he is the almost ¢om- one who now holds the secret concerning where the fortune is hid. Do you think we can earry it out, and come out ahead in the game that is being played?’ ee ‘I see no reason why we ¢an’t.’ “We have that fellow, Simon Pure, against us.” ‘And I am happy that, we have, curse him! I will have some of the boys take care of him.” * But it must not be done too soon.” Why not?’ * Because i suspect that he will get that paper into his hands to-night, somehow, and then he will set out to find the for-- tune.” “Then what is your plan?’ “To let him find it.’ “And what then?’ “To wrest it from him, and thus cheat my hated rival just when she thinks she: has everything her own way.” ‘“‘T have an idea that we had better not let it go so far, for that fellow is a bhustler,, and might possibly give us the slip. Had. we not better get at.the paper and find it ourselves?’ “Well, perhaps. accomplished, gained.” ** And you promise to be mine on these conditions ?” Tao.” “Then consider it as good as done. I will get some of the toughs of the town to aid me, and we will upset their game so badly that they will not know where they are at,” “But, some things you must not forget.’” “What are they?’ “You must allow these two strangers; as: they appear here, to keep their appoint- ment with Simon Pure to-night at nine.” “Well, we ean do that; but, what-is tox be gained?” “Tecan hear every word that is said, and: will know which one has the secret paper,” “True enough. And. what then?’ “Then we can lay further plans accord- ing to what I overhear, most likely for the capture of all three of the men. I have nothing against .imon Pure, save that he is aiding my rival.” * You have never told me the full story.. and even now you are leaving me some-— what in the dark,” “T will tell it now.” And she did, giving the facts concerning: the past about as they were, and telling of I do not care how it is so long as the end is. the present as she knew it from her point of observation, Mainard listened with close attention. , “Tt seems, then, that they still have the best of you,” he remarked. “In what way?” “Why, you b -e only the bare fact that your former lover is dead, while they seemr to be in possession of all the particulars.’” “You are right in that, and that is one reason why I want to have a little more time to spy upon them. I have an excel- oH advantage which they do not dreanxy oO ee She mentioned the pipe-hole leading fron» her room to that of the “peculiar’’ man. “Well, it shall be as you desire, then,” assented Mainard. “And you will do nothing till you hear from me. My “ Nothing, save to make ready to act.” “ Then we clearly understand each other, and there remains nothing more to be'said.. You. do your part, and I will keep my word with you.” So they parted, for the time being. _ CHAPTER XVI. THE SNARE SPRUNG. The remainder of the day passed quietly. No one could have imagined that such: deep schemes were at work just under the- surface. At nine in the eyening Deadwood Dick: }
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é jing shown it to me. 12 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats. was in h's room, with everything arranged | for the reception of his visitors, and they , were prowptly on hand. | “Here we are,” saluted Blaker, as Dick | admitted them. | “And here, am I!” greeted Dick. | “Hearty welcome to both of you.” | “T see you have a spread,’ observed | “Ormsted, indicating the table, where wine and cigars were in plenty. * As I promised, you remember. When I do a thing I like to do it right up brown. ; Hang up your hats, boys, and make your- selves at home. We are all one, I hope.” “ Before we begin, I would like to ask | the meaning of this?’ said Blaker. a | “The meaning of what?’ The man took a folded piece of paper | from his pocket, opened it, and.gave it | to Dick, who read as follows: “ Strangers—You had better go slow with the acquaintance you have formed. Make sure there is no snag to run up against be- : fore you place too much confidence in the man. “PRIEND.”’ “Who the deuce does it mean?” Dick queried, carelessly. “ Who can it mean, but yourself?” “ But I am a stranger here, and nobody | ‘knows anything to my discredit. I can tell you, however, what we do, before we take another step.” “ What is that?” “Just drop me out of your scheme and go it alone! I don’t want you to feel sus- picious of me, and rather than have it so 1 will stop right where I am and do no more in the matter.” “We have not said that we heed this ‘note, have we?” ‘No matter; it is enough to make you sus- picious, and I don’t want to feel that I am not trusted, so we had better stop short and dissolve partnership.” “We don’t want it that way. We want to go on with you. The more we see of you the better we like you, and we are not going to let this come between us. It is ~underhanded, anyhow.” “That is what itis. Haye you made the acquaintance of any other man here?” “We have become friendly with Main- ard, manager of the Odeon.” “Then this may just as well refer to him.” “ We thought of that.” “ And it is in a woman’ hand.” “ What does that signify?’ “Hard to tell, but there was some ‘trouble there last night—one of his singers having .a little difficulty with a pard of smine—” “You have a pard, then?” “Yes; a girl whom I am befriending. But, all this has nothing to do with our present business. Shall we drop it or earry iten?” * « “We'll carry it on, by all means.” “Very well; but I want you to be satis- fied that I am straight, that is all.” “ And we are more than ever satisfied of it now. We wanted to see how you would take it.’”’ ' “ And I think the more of you for hav- Now I think we will ‘be able to go ahead without any further hitches. But come, help yourselves to the ‘wine and cigars!” The listener in the opposite room bit her lips. y Tt is evident to the reader she was the one who had sent the note, but what she had to gain does not appear. The men having dispos~1 of their hats. accepted Dick’s invitation and helped themselves to the wine. and. all, lighted eigars and settled down for a smoke. ° “ Where is the map?” asked Dick. “Right ‘here.” and Blaker drew the packet from his pocket. eee ———— i He tossed it to Dick, who spread the map out before bim and began to pore over it. “Make yourselves right at home, boys,” he urged. “I must make a study of this,- and you can sample the wine while 1 am doing it.” “ We may overload,” intimated Ormsted. “No matter if you do. There is nothing to be done to-night. I must’ play light till ' I have done with fhis study; then I will join you.” They talked about one thing and an- other, but nothing of importance to the listener, and finally she gave up listening and left her room, She had heard it decided that Dick should retain the map for the present, whieh was the point she had desired to gain. Deadwood Dick studied on, pretending- ly, jotting down figures and letters on an- other sheet of paper, and nowsand again would make some remark concerning his progress. Meantime, his companions had begun to yawn, and finally both dropped off asleep. The wine had done for them! Dick now arose, with a grim smile, put- ting the map into his pocket. He shook tirst one and then the other of the two men, but neither so much as gave a grunt, and he laid them both on the floor. Having done this, he proceeded to exam- ine their pockets, and was weil repaid for his trouble, for he found letters and pa- pers which he marked and transferred to his own keeping. He had learned the real names of the two men, and knew that Nobby Nancy had made no mistake in her recognition. One was Eugene Brandson, the one who called himself Hardy Blaker, and the other was a Gus Osburn, as letters and papers fully proved. What part he had played was yet to be seen. Leaving them there on the floor, Dick went out, locking the door after him, and went down-stairs. In the sitting-room he found Nobby Nan- ey, reading. “Well, what is the result?” she inquired. “Tt is all right,” answered Dick. ‘No mistake, and they are both helpless in my room.” “ And what will you do now?’ “ Nothing, until the town is asleep; then we will remove Brandson to the place where his victim died.” CHAPTER XVII. THE JUST REWARD. Flush Flats was wrapped in slumber. Few lights were to be seen anywhere, and none in the vicinity of the bank and hotel. The town had street lamps, which usu- ally burned ail night, but, in the small hours on this night, every lamp in the im- mediate vicinity of the town center was out, as if for some special reason. Such was the case, From the rear of the hotel several forms came forth, carrying a burden. They crossed the street, choosing the deeper shadows for their purpose, and si- lently entered the bank building, closing. the door behind them as noiselessly as it had been opened. No one had seen them, and the town slept on, innocent of any knowledge of these proceedings. Yet, in perfect silence, and in darkness, they proceeded into the bank proper. Once there, they made their way to the door behind the safes, which one of their number opened, and they descended to the cellar heneath, e is At the bottom of the steps they laid their burden on the ground, and a light was made, by means of which they all stood revealed. ’ 4 MMS Ree Tete ee BO ns een ee ee eS Sea hae! Sale aay mcd ol -isfaction, at least,’ acquiesced Dick. _ ss onal —= There were Simon Pure, Nobby Naney, Richard Rashton, and Henry Hurdle, the fifth was the night watchman, while the man on the floor was Harly Blaker. “Had you not better remain here asked Deadwood Dick of his pard. ' ‘No; I must go on,” was the response. “ Can you stand the horror of it?” “T have nerved myself to stand it. The prospect of revenge sustains me. I will go with you.” “Very well, then.’’ When they had rested for a few mo- ments they took up their burden again, and Mr. RashtonJed the way, bearing the light. The trap leading to the sub-cellar had been opened, and the bank president dropped down, helped Nobby Nancy after him, and the other three were soon suc- cessful in following with the sleeping murderer. The young woman had looked around, and now stood for some moments with her hands over her face to shut out the heart- rending sight. It required every effort she could bring to bear to prevent a flood of grief that would utterly unnerve her. The man was carried to the iron support in the center of the hole, and the president of the bank produced a chain and lock. The chain, of ample length, was passed around the stanchion, and then around the man’s body, the latter in a close loop so that it would be impossible for him to re- move it. And there it was locked. The chain would slip up and down the pillar, of course, and the man was laid on the ground beside the skeleton. “Tt will be a terrible awakening,” ob- served the cashier. “T would never be a party to it, were there even the shadow of a doubt concern- ing his guilt,” declared the president. ; “Nor would I,” echoed Deadwood Dick. “But there is no doubt. I have more than ample proofs. All now required is his con- fession, which we now shall have.” “And we eare little for that,” observed Nobby Nancy, grimly. “Confession will not mitigate his crime, the monster!” Deadwood Dick understood her terrible intention, if she could be allowed to have her own way in the matter. _“ Shall we leave the light?’ asked Rash- ton. “No,” said the girl sport, promptly. “Tet him come to in the dark, and then gradually realize the full horror of his position! I demand this, in the name of that awful reminder here at our feet!” “Let it be so,” assented Deadsvood Dick, “Tt is no more than justice.” So they turned their backs upon the guilty wretch, and got up out of the hole into the cellar proper above. “How long will he sleep?’ asked Rash- ton. ; “Maybe for hours longer,” opined Dick. “Then useless for us to wait here.” “We will not wait. We will come to him again, in the morning, when he will probably be ready to make a full confes- sion.” “ho , “And then I demand the privilege of visiting him alone, first of all,” said the girl sport. “He will recognize me, and I will show him that it is I who have avenged the death of the man I loved.” “Well, we can allow you that much sat- "9? “Tt is all I ask.” They closed down the trap and made their way up from the cellar. “Now,” said the president to the watch- man, “you will resume your night watch, and if you hear cries from the cellar, pay, no heed to them.”
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Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats. 13 ‘* Y-3 pe a ee? oo d—d—d—did, t—t—| the sake of stopping your barking at my |. “You will be released only when TI i too,’ was the rejolr angst heels, and at the same time of convinc- | have found this fortune.” Q |, But not y rhe Pion Se ing you of the error under which you are | “Then you mean to keep me prisoner?” ae! You k—k-} iz ee Ge a the s—s—s— | jaboring, I will go with you.” “That is my intention, sir.” ‘3 S—same; you k— Ea ; TT = ‘oe of the n— Mainard had not stopped, which fact, Dick’s captors, having somewhat slack- j els ha abo tha «~*k—k—could 1—| perhaps, more than anything else, had | ened their hold upon him, he gave a sud- “ ack you. f edged Dick on. den leap forward, and would have struck Bre Syn Well, Iam glad I bee mek to do even Dick waved his hand to Nobby Nancy, Malnact to the floor with a single biow, 4 a that much for you. But, - ow about the | ana strode after the fellow. but the hands tightened their hold upon rh}, man who sent you to Sol shinies ps opera- | Mainard kept straight ahead, at a rapid | him in time, and he was prevented. . * tion on me? Did hem hip you again, when } pace, and ere long had arrived at the| “You find you cannot do it,” the rascal . PE sae Nat hae is what b—b—p. | buildings of the mine, around which he | taunted him. % tbe ai Th—t ei oR Cage tae Pit turned at a sharp angle, and headed in| “You will find that I can, perhaps, be- i i. foe me here th—th—th Sum—m— 1 the direction of some shanties on the] fore you get done with me. This game * a ig i 28 eae FN IO FE UHR SSS slope of the gulch. is not ended yet.” MA : , “J rc oa asat inerineay egg 1 pl ' Ve ; He appeared to increase his gait, as “Tt is well under way, however, and I ; 2 cious, I will be just as pices, pica if | Dick thought, as if with the intention of | seem to hold both bowers and the joker, x %s you wil) Sing what you have got to say,” | winding him’ before reaching the scene | at present; ha, ha, ha! Well, take care g if said Dick. of the fight, but he had another purpose | of him, men.” “ T understand, sir.” “Ts he to be trusted?” asked the girl sport of Dick, in a whisper. “Yes, ar Rashton would not trust him, and this iv really his matter, you have to admit.”’ “It was, before he sent for us.” “And for the reason that he did send for us we are bound to heed whatever he has to say.” “Save one thing. “And what is that?” “JT am determined that Eugene Brand- son shall never leave that hole alive, but that he shall meet the same fate to which he consigned my lover.” “What is that?’ asked the bank presi- dent. ' She had spoken a little louder. “IT say that he deserves the same fate to which he consigned my lover,” the girl sport repeated. “Yes, you are right; but we are human, IT hope.” ; “An hour or two will be sufficient,” said Rashton. ‘“‘It will be an age of hell for him, and we shall find him ready to confess when we come to release him. Then the law will deal with him.” “That will be the right plan,” agreed Deadwood Dick. “Well, at least grant me the one favor I asked,” urged the girl. “ And what is that?” “To be the first one to go down and face him.’ “Yes; we will grant you that, as already promised,” the president assured. With that understanding they separated, the night rolled silently on, and the mor- row dawned in due course, the camp ” Dick and the girl sport both had to laugh, The fellow sang his message to a well- set tune, and had evidently prepared it to rhyme. “T find that you are several other things besides a stutterer,”” remarked Dick. “You are something of a poet on a very: small seale. But, what does that fellow take me for?” “A k—k—k—k—coward, b’g—g—g—g— gosh!” “Please stick to your singing. You make me nervous when you talk. I am willing to let him think what he pleases, and you may go back and tell him so.” “Then you won't fight?’ “Not unless I have to. ing fight this morning.” “Well, he says you'll have to, so you might as well get ready for it when he comes this way; ri—diddle—daddy, day!” “ He will find me ready, if it is his inten- tion to come. But, can I do anything far- ther for you in that same line this morn- ing? I like to give full satisfaction where I undertake—”’ “Tm p—p—p—p—perfectly s—s—s—s— s—satisfied, th—th—th—thank you; n—no m—n—more f—f—f—f—for me.” And with that Stuttering Samson went off, leaving Dick and his pard to enjoy a good laugh at his expense, in spite of the fact that they rather pitied the man on ac- count of his affliction, They continued their talk. Not a great while had elapsed when Sanford Mainard came along. He did not look up as he approached, nor even as he passed, but in passing. he snarled out: I am not seek- Just when he passed between the two shanties, however, half a dozen toughs leaped upon him, from somewhere un- seen, so quickly that he had no chance for defense. Two had seized each arm, and all act- ing together, they ran him into the third one of the shanties. There stood Mainard, his arms folded, smiling at him. He evidently had en- tered by the rear, as soon as he had disappeared around the corner of the rude building. “Well, here you are,” he observed, tauntingly, “and I will trouble you for that paper you have in your pocket.” “What paper?” “The map that you have been puzzling your brain about.” : That the man knew what he was talk- ing about was evident, and Dick could not but wonder how he had come by the knowledge. ’ Then he recalled the note which had been received by Brandson, and thought at once of Maud Weille. He also recalled that her room in the hotel was next to his: This solved the problem. CHAPTER XIX. NANOY JANE’S NERVE. Mainard did not stand to parley, but, advancing, thrust his hand into Dick’s pocket, As it happened, Dick had all his other letters and papers in the inner pocket of his vest. The only thing in the inside pocket of his coat was the map, so the man had no trouble in bringing to light the object of awaking to the activities of another day. “Tf you are not a coward, follow me!” his search, and he smiled as it was “Do you mean that for me?’ demanded | brought out. Dick. " “Easy done,” he said. CHAPTER ae LED. “Yes, I mean it for you.” “Yes, quite so,” answered Dick, “Is CAUGHT IN A ‘TRAP. Deadwood Dick was astir early. So was Nobby Nancy, who joined Dick on the piazza. While they were there in conversation, who should come along but Stuttering Sam- son. There was a protuberance upon his fore- head, and all the surrounding surface was black and blue and yellow-tinged, the re- sult of the terrible blow Dick had given him the day before. ey £—g—g—g00d-m—m—mornin’,” the stutterer stuttered, “ Good-morning,”’ greeted Dick. “I see T did not succeed in effecting a cure in your case, my friend,” “ All right, my laddy, I can do that, you know; ri—tiddy, ritaddy, ri—tay!” “Well, sing your say, then.” “The boss, he says, the boss, says he, you can’t lick him, if you have licked me; he calls you a coward, and says you don’t dare to come and meet him just up there beyond the shafts, just out, of town; and , fight the thing to a clean knockdown.” “Well, it is not necessary to follow you to prove that,” Dick retorted, leap- ing over the railing and alighting upon the ground. “TI ean convince you right here.” “No, not here, sir; follow me, and I will convince you that you have made a foe of the wrong man. I cannot take the knockdown you gave me and not return it with interest.” bess do you want to go to settle “Over there beyond the shafts of the Dauphin Mine, by the shanties which I presume you have noticed.” “And if I refuse to go?’ “Til brand you a coward!” “ Barking dogs do little harm, but, for in view, and one of which Dick did not think, having no good reason to suspect anything of the kind. ; The man passed between two of the shanties, and, motioning Dick to come on, disappeared behind a third. Dick hastened on after him—resolved to punish the man all the more for lead- ing him this long way for nothing. that all you want of me?” “That is all. You were a fool to think that I would call you away up here for the purpose of fighting you.” “If you will bid these gentlemen re- lease me, I will prove to your satisfaction that I have not come here in yain. The wisest of men will do foolish things in the course of a lifetime.” “No, I hold no particular grudge against you, Mr. Peters, and what is the use of my whipping you for nothing?” “How about that lump on your fore- head?” “This trick is satisfaction enough for that, and we will call it square.” “Well, have me released, then, since you have gained your object.” “You bet we wull,” Mainard left the room by the front way, closing the door after him. - “ Well, what do you propose doing with me?” Dick asked his captors, as soon as their leader was gone. — They were a fiercelooking gang, re- minding Dick of a pack of hyenas, : “We aire goin’ to make a prisoner of
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ee eo ‘ix: OIE ae SL aS a ; ae. FER tas = - "a= —e ‘ f 5 Pe i. Ne Ig J oe 2 ta : mn we q wae @ Be ae . q Pie DA Lees a faye) oy 5 P “Ae i ‘, r= A ‘bt ‘oe 1 eee ou ‘ : 4 La ‘ 4 y wt me ‘4 ; : Be i ' a 14 suller,” one of them made answer. “J have got a hundred dollars at the hotel to divide among you, if you will let me make my escape,” Dick proposed. *““No one will be any the wiser; you can Say it was accidental.” They looked at one another, and shook their heads. “Et won't do,’ declined their spokes- man. ‘Thar’ be too durn many of us, and ther boss would know we. wuz lyin’. No, you have got ter stay hyer. Fetch him along, fellers.”’ The man jerked up a batten door in the floor as he spoke, disclosing a clumsy Stairs. He descended first, and’ the others fol- lowed, bearing Deadwood Dick by the arms and legs, a helpless prisoner. Dick was disgusted, and blamed him- self for having fallen into the trap so easily. Once they were at the bottom, they pro- ceeded to bind their prisoner with ex- treme care, “We ain’t goin’ to ‘low ye no chance ter give us ther slip,’ assured the spokes- man. ‘Them’s orders, and we mean to *bey orders if we bu’st owners.” “T would like the satisfaction of tak- ing you, one at a time, or even two,, and bu’sting you,’ cried Dick, vengefully. *“Just give me half a show and I will go for the whole pack of you.” “Talk is cheap,” laughed the ruffian. ““Mebby ye could do up one or two of us, after what we have seen of ye, but we ain’t goin’ to give ye the chance. Bind him good an’ tight, boys, an’ then we'll tie him to one of the timbers here So he can’t possibly ’scape.” And they bound him accordingly. When they had done they left him there and climbed up the rude stairs to the room above, closing down the trap door: “T opine he wull keep down thar’ all right,” observed one of the fellows. “Come, now, and let’s go and take a drink on top of et. That was about the slickest I ever seen.” All were ready to accept this sugges- tion, and the leader threw open the outer door. But a surprise awaited them there. The instant the door was thrown open, into the room stepped Nobby Nancy, with a brace of poppers in hand. *Whoap!” cried the girl sport, as the men were ready to rush out. ‘Hold on a minute, my pretty hyenas!” “ What ther blazes!” cried the leader of the evil gang, as all stopped short and glared at the fearless girl as if they “would devour her, their fists clenched and their mouths open. at will be blazes right out of these guns if you move a single peg!” the. girl warned. “ And, not only blazes, but bul- lets as well, and don’t yer forget it!” “What's ther matter, gal? What d'ye want?” “T want my pard.” “Yer pard?”’ “That was what I said. And you want to trot him out here in-just the shortest time on record, if you don’t want to pass in your chips. I am silk warp and all- wool filling, and I measure thirty-six inches to the yard; that is to say, I am the real stuff, and I mean shoot!” _“ But, gal, we aire six to one against ye!” f r R _ “T don’t care if you are a dozen! Do you hear what I ordered? Produce my pard or I'll begin to peg away!” They glared like the human wolves they hrc A seemed as if ready to defy ithe p wey girl's weapons and spring upon terred them from acting in that manner. “We'll chaw ye all up!” the ringleader threatened. ‘‘ Git out of ther way, thar’!’ he bellowed, trying to frighten her. “ By ther howlin’ hurlykanes! we'll walk right over ye, an’ knock yer beauty into a cocked hat! Git out of hyer, blast ye, or by ther—”’ rack! One of the girl’s revolvers spoke, and one of the ruffians dropped to the floor with a bullet in his neck. At this the rest recoiled, and the loud- mouthed leader turned as pale as death. He had fooled himself with the idea that the girl sport did not mean it, or that she would not have the nerve to carry out the threat; now he found that she was “silk warp and all-wool filling.” CHAPTER XX. KNEW HOW IT WOULD BE. The man Nobby Nancy had plunked was the foremost of the tough lot—a grim, gaunt, ghastly-looking specimen, Whom rum and disease together had made hideous. Her bullet had probably only forestalled death by “natural causes’ a very short time; but, that was no matter; she was 4s ready to serve the leader of the lot in the same manner. | “What are you going to do about it?” she demanded, in a clear, ringing tone. “You see I mean business, and I have got more than enough pills here for the Whole lot of you. Bring out my pard or I'll. upset some other man’s apple-cart for him, you bet!” i “Hold on! Don’t shoot no cried the ringleader, cowed. fetch him, double quick!” i “See that you do, then! Bring him out, and if he has been harmed I'll wipe out this nest in short order.” + “Ae is all right; we ain’t harmed a hair of his head.” : ; “So much the better for you.” i “Come on, boys; and we'll git him!’ “Hold on!’ cried the girl sport. ‘‘ One of you ean bring him; I will take care of the rest until he is produced, safe and sound.” “You are durn p’tic’lar!” » “Yes, and it pays to be with such a gang. Bring him out, if you don’t want Another subject for planting!” , “All right, all right; don’t shoot no more, and I will have him up hyer in jest two jerks of a jiffy, you bet! You means business, you does, and we ain’t sech fools we don’t know et.” The fellow had jerked up the trap in the floor while speaking. Only for the fact that they had left Dick gagged, Nancy would have heard from him ere this. The man was on the point of going down, when the girl thought of a trick he might attempt to play, and ordered him to drop his weapons on the floor be- fore he left the room. , With muttered oaths he obeyed. . Having placed his. weapons on _ the floor, he went down, and in a few mo- ments Deadwood Dick came forth, a free man. . ‘ He, too, had a brace of guns in hand, ready for business, and as soon as he was out of the hole he ordered the men to go down the steps, every mother’s son of them! . ‘ . And they had to obey, or fare worse. Dick then fastened the trap upon them; and that done, he offered his hand to his noble girl pard. ; ! 1 “You are a dandy, Nancy Jane!” he cried. “You have got more nerve than ‘the average man, and I am proud of more!” “We'll et you. Now we'll see who will come out on top in this game, I think.” “And has Mainard got your paper?” “Yes; but he won't keep it long.” “ Can you take it away from him?” “You come along with me, and see, lit- tle pard,’’ was the rejoinder. They left the shanty, closing the door after them, and returned to the hotel by a rear way. HMntering at a rear door, they sauntered out upon the piazza-as if they had just got up for the day, and had stepped out for a breath of morning air. As it happened, who should be standing near, on the walk at the foot of the steps, but Sanford Mainard and Stuttering Sam- son. Both looked up as the door opened. Mainard’s face paled, and his hand flew to his hip. Quicker than he, however, Deadwood Dick’s guns had him covered. Don’t try that game, if you value good health,’ was the grim warning. Advancing as he spoke, he descended the steps and faced the two men. 4 “Now, if you please, I will take charge of that paper again.” “ What paper?” blustered Mainard. ‘Hand that paper over, or down you go! No quarter now!” “ Maybe you think you can take it away from me,” : *Wasy enough to take it away from a dead. man.” “ Only a coward would speak that way!’ “Do you want me to take it from you living?” “1 would like to see you do that same!” “Allright. Let my pard here take your weapons; or, better still, let your stuttering friend here take them, and I will hand mine to my pard. That done, I will have that paper so quick it will make you dizzy, you chief of scalawags!’”’ “Tl do that, by Judas!’ “ All right, act on it, then.” Mainard gave Stuttering weapons, and Dick handed his own to Naney Jane, when he instantly advanced upon Mainard, his eyes flashing ominously. The manager of the Odeon tried to parry his attack, and for a few seconds did so, but he soon got a “snifter” that fairly lifted him clear off the ground. Down he went, flat upon his back. Dick Samson his was upon him in an instant, and had fished the paper out of his pocket before the fel- low knew what had happened. Then he was up again in an instant. Mainard scrambled to his feet, boiling over with rage. | “T have the paper again. If you have got enough of this thing, say so; if not, I am yours to Command!” “Curse -you! I will give you enough,” was the retort. The man made a rush at Dick, as if to” annihilate him on the spot, But his rage made the victory all the easier for the Steel-nerved detective. He played with the manager for a time, just to enrage him the more; then went suddenly at him, and, as some of the wit- rir remarked, “he just made the fur vi? ‘Right and left he struck, every blow tell. ing with terrible effect, and in Tess than one half minute Mainard was on his: back. again, completely knocked out, and cowed, for he was bellowing “Enough! enough!” “He has g-—g—g—g—got p—p—p—p— plenty,” stuttered Samson, “and he would b—b—be a h—h—hog if he ha—ha—ha— hadn’t s—s—sense enough to s—s—say so!” “ Well, it is to be hoped that he is fully satisfied with this lesson; if I have to give him another his beauty will be gone for- ever!” ; hs es ee oe ee =
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“TT: t—t—t—told w—w—w—would b—b—be,” the stuttering him h—h—h—how | it fellow declared. “I n—n—n—knowed -you k—k—k—k—could do it, b—b—by the w— Ww—way you d—d—done it t—to m—n— m—me. And I’m g—g—g—g—glad of it, b’s—g—g—g—gosh!” CHAPTER b:@.4 AVENGED. About that time John Ormsted was out looking for his friend. It had been a surprise to him to wake up in’ his room and find himself all dressed, and his } artner missing. He asked Dick if he had seen him. “Not this morning... Is he, missing?” * Yes; can’t find him any wheres.” “Maybe he has taken an early start to find that fortune;. but, as. I have the map I ean" think that,” “T say, what happened to us last night? The last I remember we were in your room, and when I woke up it Was morning and the sun was shining in my face where I lay on the floor.” “ Fact was, I suppose, we took a little too much,” explained Dick, laughing. “Our pard will show up all right, I don’t doubt.” They had breakfast, yet BI: iker W missing. Some time before the opening hour, the president and cashier of the bank entered the building. ‘A few minutes later Deadwood Dick and Nancy Jane crossed the street and entered after them. The door was closed, and ob- servers wondered what was going on: The watchman was still there, and he looked troubled. “Have you heard the fellow?’ asked Dicks 0" te ke “ The watchman says he has,” answered Rashton,. “About two hours ago he heard terrible cries, faintly, and they were kept up for some time, but now all is still.” “We will go down, then, and take the man’s confession, if he is ready to make one; and I think he will be, when we threaten to leave him there to meet the was still ' same doom as the man he murdered.” “And I am to go down first,’’ reminded Nancy Jane. “Yes, you first.” They proceeded to the cellar, two carry- ing lights, and tue trap in the lower floor was lifted. No sound came from below. Nancy Jane was very pale, but firm. “Do you still insist upon being the first to go down?” asked Dick. ** Yes,” she resolutely answered. ‘TI will go down first. It is my right. I am not afraid.” She leaped lightly down; and. one of the lights was handed to her. She disappeared, and then was heard to exclaim: “My God!” “ What is it?’ asked Dick. “Come down! Come down at once!” she called. Dick and the other sprang down, and jm-. mediately saw for themselves. The man was dead; and, not only dead, but his hair had turned as white as snow, while his face had an expression of utter horror! “More terrible than I thought it would be,” remarked Dick. “Guilty, he could not stand the ordeal. We have lost his confession, but your vengeance ought to feel fully satisfied, Naney Jane.” : “FT am satisfied; he deserved no less. What he did unto Others, the same was meted out to him. ‘That is the golden rule of human vengeance!” “And what about the other?” asked the banker. | | | | ‘possible! Deadwood Dick, J r., at ‘Flush Flats. 15 * Wait, and I will bring him here,” and Deadwood Dick hurriedly departed. He found the man in the bar-room of the hotel—his usual resort. “I have found our pard,” announced Dick, “and he has found the fortune!’ “The deuce you say!” “Yes, and you are to come Don’t be excited, so as to tention.”’ with me. attract at- They crossed the street, but did not head straight for the bank at once. Once across, however, Dick turned in the direction of the bank, and stopped at the steps. The man had turned as pale as a ghost. “Not im there!” he eried. ‘‘ Oh, not in there, Mr. Peters.” “And why not?’ Dick demanded, * You mean to say he is in there? Im- You couldn’t hire him to go in that place!” *Oh, come on with draw a crowd by your the other. Still the fellow did not seem inclined to go into the bank, but with a quick move- ment Dick laid hold upon his collar and, exerting his marvelous strength, forced him up the steps and in at the door in a hurry. There he handcuffed him before the as- tounded man knew what had happened. “T eave! I cave!’ he whined, piteously, dropping upon his knees. “I will do anything you say, anything; only don't take me down there—don't!”’ “Will you confess everything?’ manded Dick. “Yes, yes, everything!’ “Well, we will hear what you have to say, and if it agrees with the confession of your partner, well and good; if not, down you go to share the fate of the victim of your horrible crime.’ Perspiration was streaming from the fellow's face, and Dick was really afraid to take him down to the hole below, for fear he might die of abject terror. Dick called down to the others, and all came up. Then the villain confessed, swearing that his confession was full and true. He had been one of the former _part- don’t urged you, and 9 fooling! de- ners in the banking business there, at Flush Flats. His real name was Gus Osburn. Eugene Brandson had made friends with him, and had gotten him into his power. Having done that, he forced an interest in the business, and the three—the third partner was dead, had begun to carry on a business that was chiefly wholesale rob- bery of every man whom they saw a chance to fleece at all. And in that manner they prospered. One day Theodore Barefield came to them, saying he had a fortune which he wanted to put into safe hands until he eould reach home, when he would de- posit the amount-in some bank in his own city by draft, They agreed to take it, but, just then, Brandson came in. He and Barefield, recognizing each other, Brandson drew a pistol and made ‘his rival a prisoner. The confederates in villainy then de- cided to chain him in the cellar, to make him confess where the fortune was hid, for he had not brought it with him, so the fellow explained; but he averred that they had no intention of killing Barefield, who died a natural death; and then, in order to save themselves, they closed up the business in a hurry and went away. The confession was not believed; it was certain that Brandson had left’ his | prisoner to die there of starvation; the scoundrel simply dared not tell the truth as to the death of theie victim. ——r- The confession made, Osburn was sent to jail; then, from the steps of the bank, | the mayor made known to the people the ; Ta sto Cool C: whole matter, and formally. introduced Mr. Richard Bristol—the noted Deadwood Dick, and the Simon Pure Detective. The citizens of Flush Flats shouted themselves hoarse in their hearty enthu- siasm. The whole revelation was an as- tonisher, and Deadwood Dick was the hero of the hour. What, remains must be briefly told. The skeleton of the murdered man was properly interred, and a shaft set up to mark the spot. The fortune was discovered in due time by Deadwood Dick, after a patient Search, and it was handed over to Nancy Jane, his girl sport pard. She, in turn, eventually gave it to a sister of Barefield’s, as his next of kin. The wellsatisfied mayor made a public dinner, in honor of Deadwood Dick, and it was a big affair. There, again, the whole story was retold, and at the close there were three rousing cheers for Simon. Pure, the Peculiar, and his Nobby rirl Pard When Dick left the place Nancy Jane went with him, declaring that she wanted to share with him the perils and exeite- ment of at least one more adventure be- fore she set her face homeward and set- tled down again to humdrum life, as she characterized it. As for’ Maud Weille, she married Mainard and took up her residence at Flush Flats, permanently. Of the others nothing further need be written. THE END. Next Hatr-Dme Lrsrary, No. 935. Bob Buckle’s Big Inning. BY J, C. COWDRICK. Beatle’s ae Library. BY GEORGE C. JENKS, Ganon Tussle, ten on Every Side, a5 ron BY WM. G. PATTEN, 629 Vices Vane, the Velvet Sport; or, The Jubilee ot Jacktown Violet Vane’s Vietory; or, The Jasper City Clean Out. 698 Violet and Dalay, the Posy Pards. TOS Violet Vane’s Vow; or, The Craft ba dat 724 Violet Vane’s V on “oom or, The Wipe Gat 730 Violet Vane’s Verdiet; or, The Game ai Coffin City. sa8 Violet Vane, the Ventriloguist Vidoeq; or, Sport va. Sport. 50 Violet Vane, the Vanquished, or, Tho Life Strugg'e. bt Violet Vane’s Vision; or, The Fiery Hand of Fate. ¥ The Diamond Sport; or, The Double Face of Bed Rock. Bis ge tain mywten ys or, Five in One, ia B Pare the Sport from Denver. tu d Bombshell, the Ranger Detective. soa Tron Fern, the Man of Fire; or, Among the Vultures, 619 The Boy Tramp Detective; or, The Donbie Grip Witness ave? "hana Pard; or, The Clue to Capt. Claw, 651 Bound Boy F rank, the Young Amateur Detective 682 Wild Vv meee Mabe Lone-Range Rider, 714 Old Misery the he from Missourl, 74 Clear-Grit Cal, the Never Sav-Die Detective, | z 89 Sam Sheridan, the Secret Service Special. 806 Cowboy Steve the Ranch Mascot. . 820 Nobby Nat, the Tenderfoot Detective. S84 Sharper Stoke’« Double Deal. S57 Rpotter Bobin New York. 866 Spotter Bob’s Bowery Racket. BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, ; 11 o Detecti rtunes Bower: u The bai, the Grow ier or, The Fo ofa ry baa’ Sol mpi e Gian ‘ 288 Joe Buck HE; Rey Poet ait SRT 404 Nimble Nek, Pa diag rd ares ; bro sloPaten the all Bred Dehecdlyn | 518 Cool ] Colorado in N in N x ew Vork: or, The S Cowbeyte Fight The Half- Dime Library is for anle by all = page five ents per copy, or sent by mal! on receipt of aix cents each. BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William ‘Street, New Mette A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham, © i a,
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Published Every Tuesday. BEADLE'S« H ALF- DIME« LIBRARY. BY 1 Deadwood 128 Deadwood 85 Deadwood 42 Deadwood | 49 Deadwood SZ Deadwood 78 Deadwood "?7 Deadweod 100 Deadwood 104 Deadwood 109 Deadwood 129 Deadwood 188 Deadwood 149 Deadwood 156 Deadwood 195 Deadwood 201 Deadwood 282 Gold-Dust 268 Deadwo BGS Peadweod 809 Deadwood B21 Deadwood | B47 De wood 851 Deadwood ase Deadweod 491 Dead wood 496 Deadwood 600 Deaawoea 608 Deadwood 549 Deadwooa 554 Deadwood 561 Deadwood 567 Deadwood 572 Deadwood 578 Deadwood 584 Deadwooa 590 Deadwood 595 Deadwood 600 Deadwood 606 Deadwood 612 Deadwood 618 Deadwood 624 Deadwood 680 Deadwood 686 Deadwood 642 Deadwood 648 Deadwood 654 Deadwood 660 Dendwood 666 Deadwood 672 Deadwood 678 Deadwood 684 Deadwood 690 Deadwood 695 Deadwood 700 Deadwood 704 Deadwood 710 Deadwood 716 Deadwood 722 Deadwood 728 Deadwood 784 Deadwoed 740 Deadwood TAT Deadwood 752 Deadwood T5S Deadwood 74 Deadwood 770 Deadwood 776 Deadwood 782 Dead wooa TST Deadwood 792 Deadwood 79T Deadwood 802 Deadwood 807 Deadwood 812 Deadwood 816 Deadwood 822 Deadwood 828 Deadwood 884 Deadwood 840 Deadwood 84% Deadwood 852 Deadwood 858 Dead wood 868 Dendwood 870 Deadwood 876 Deadwood S82 Deadwood 891 Deadwood 898 Deadwood 904 Deadwood 910 Deadwood 916 Deadwood od Dick’s Divide EDWARD L. WHEELER. Deadwood Dick Novels. Dick, the Prince of the Road. Dick’s Defiance; or, Double Daggers. Dick in Disguise; or, Bulfal, ten Dick ia Hia Castle. Dick's Bonanza; or, The Phantom Miner. Dick in Danger; or, Omana Ol. Dieck’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar, Dick on Deck; or, Calamity 2 ne, the Heroine Dick’s Laat Acts or, Corduroy Charlie. Dick in Leadville. Dick’s Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. Dick ae Detective. Dick’s Double; or, The Gorgon’s Guich Ghost. Dick’sa Wome Hase; or, Blonde Bill. Dick’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. Diek of Deadw t or, The Picked Party. Dick’s Dreamy or, The Rivals of the Road. Dick’s Ward or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. ood Dick’s Doom: or, Calamity Jane's Adventure. Dieck’s Dead Vcal. Dick’s Death-P lant. Pick. A Romance of Roughs and Toughe, or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. Dick’s Death Trail. Dick’s Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. Dick’s Dozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Fiats Dick’s Ducats; or, Days in the Diggings. Miek Sentenced; or, The Terrible Vendetta. Dick’s Claim. Dtek in Nead City. Dick’s Diamonds, Diek in New Yorks or, A “Cute Case,” ood mh Duats or, The Chained Hand. Jrs or, The Crimson Crescent Sign, Jr.'s, Defiance. Fx faidecte r.’*, Big Kound-Up. Jr.'s Racket at Claim 16, k, Jr.’*, Corral; or, Bozeman Bill. Jr.'s, Dog Detective. Jr., in Deady ood, ar.’«, Compact. Jr.’«, Inheritance, dria Dn ng, Jr.'s, Deliverance, dria Pro Jr.’s, Three. Jdr.’s, Danger Ducks. ¥ fig mons Munt, re, in Texas. Pick, Jr., the Wild West Vidocg Dick, Jr., on Nix Mette, mreet hdd Pg pean ck, Jr., in Boaton, Dick, Jr., in Philadeiphia, | 3 a ek. Jr. oat. Dick. er.. in Denver. Dick, Jr.’*#, Decree. Dick Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin, Dick, Jr., at Coney Island. Dick, Jr.’*, Leadville Lay. Dick, Jr., in Detroit. . Dick, Jr. in Cincinnati. Dick. Jr., in Nevada, Dick, Jr., in No Man’« Land, Dick, Jr., After the Queer. Jr.. In Buffalo. P Jr.’a, Chane Across the Continent Jr., Among the Smugglers. dra, Insurance Case. ~ Jr., Back in the Mines, dr., tn Durango; or, “ Gathered In.” Jr. Diseovery; or, Found a Fortune, Jr.'s. Dazzle. dr.’«. Dollars. Jr., at Danger Divide. ek, Jr.’«, Drop. Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. Dick Jr., In San Francisco, Dick, Jdr.’s, Still Hunt. Dick, Jr.’«, Dominoes, Dick, Jr.'s, Diagulae, Dick. Jr.’«, Double Deal, Dick, Jr.’«, Deathwatch. Dick, Jr.’«, Doublet. Diek, Jr.’s, Deathblow. Diek, Jr.’s, Deaperate Strait. Dick, Jr.'s, Lone Hand. Dick, Jr.’*, Defeat. Diek, Jr.’«, Resurrection, ae pa et ot Days. ek ri, Defled, Dick, Jr.’s, Double Device. Dick, Jr’.«, Deaperate Venture, Dick, Jr.’«, Diamond Dice. Dick, Jr.’#, Royal Flush, Bick: gem ieaie™ ick, Jr.’s, val, ok , ee fires Dick, Jr.’s, Proxy. Dick, Jr’, Clutch, Dick, Jr.’s, High Horse, Dick Jr., at Devil’ Gulch. Dick, Jr.’«, Feath-HNole Hustle: Dick, Jr.’« Bombshell, Dick, Jr., in Mexico, Dick, Jr's Decoy Duck, Dick, Jr., in Silver Pocket. Diek, Jr.’s, Dead-Sure Game, Dick, Jr’«, Double Drive. Dick, Jr.'s, Trade-Mark. Dick, JIr., at bs chad Dick, Jr.’s Double-Decker, BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMB, 559 Tom-Ca and Pard; or, The Dead Set at Silver City. 622 Tom-Cat’s Triad; or, The Affair at Tombstone. 681 Tom Cat’« 688 Tom-Cat’« 546 Captain Cactua,t B68 The Dandy of D Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective. belt my, or, Black Dan's Great Combine. e Chaparral Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike odge; or, Rustling for Millions. 676 The Silver Sport; or, Josh Peppermint’s Jubilee. 588 Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow 601 Happy Mana, the Dutch Vidocg; or, Hot Timesat Round-Up 611 Bilda Barnacde, the Detective Hercules. 646 Gowker Gid, the Cattle-Range Detective, n 657 Warbling William the Mountain Mountebank. See goliy Jeremiahs the Plains Detective, ignal Sam 689 Billy, the The M 88 T Gypa 699 Birmple Sim, the eamertiat Rports or, The Mystified Detective. oltec Tom, the Mad Prospector, the Lookout Scout. Spy: or, The Mystery of Two Lives. roncho Buster; or, For Big Stakes. 45 Kanaae Jim, the Crose-Cut Detective, 761 Marmaduke, the Mustanger Detective. 78 The Ruatler of Rolling Stonc. ie kes ST2 Two w Joe, the Committee of One. n x irby, the High-Kicker from Killbuck. T we Dete etive in Texan. howmen Detectives in Colorado. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. 84 Rosebud Reb on Hand; or, Idy!, the Girl Miner. 88 Resebud Rob's Reappearanuce; or, Photograph Phil. 121 Rosebud Rob's Challenge; or, Ciunamon Chip. 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee’s Surround 281 Denver Doll's Vietery; or, Skull and Crossbones. 285 Denver Doll’s Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza. 296 Denver Doll's Drift; or, The Road Queen. B68 Yreka Jim, the Gold-Gatherer; or, The Life Lottery, 872 Yreka Jim’s Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. B85 Yreka Jim's comers or, The Rivals of Red Nose, 889 Yreka Jim’s New Kole; or, Bicycle Ben. 804 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam, 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective, or, Dot Leetlé Game. 218 Fritz te the Front; or, The Ventriloguist Hunter 244 Sierra Sam, tho Frontier Ferret; ov, A Sister’s Devotion. 24% Slerra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 255 Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, The Ange! of Big Vista. 255 Sierra Sam’a Seven} or, The Stolen Bride. 884 Kangaroo Kit; or, The Mysterious Miner. 889 Kangaroo Kit’ Racket; or, The Pride of Played-Out, 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. 69 The Boy Detective; or, Gold Rife, the Sharpehooter. 96 Watch-Eye, the Detective; or, Arabs aud Angels. 117 Gilt-Edged Dick, the Sport Detective 45 Captuin Ferret, the New York Detective, 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. 226 The Arab Detective 4 or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp. 991 Turk the Boy Ferret. 825 Kelley, miehey & Ce,, the Detectives of Philadelphia, 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective. 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High Mat Warry, the Base Bal! Detective, 6 Sam Slabaides, the ar-Boy Detective. 4 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 Avalanche; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand, 58 Jim Bludseoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix. 61 Muckhorn Hill; or, The Red Rifle Team. 92 Canada Chet ; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 118 Jaek Hoyle the Young Speculator. 125 Bonanza Hill, Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 188 Bona Bob the King of Bootblacks, 141 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows. 177 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, The Sierras Scampa. 181 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or, Lady Lily’s Love. 286 Apollo Bill, the Trai! Tornado; or, Rowdy Kate. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Koy Patrol; or, The Rival Heirs, 899 A No, 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. 880 Little ulck-Shot or, The Dead Face of Daggersville. 858 Firat-Clase Fred, the Gent from Gopher, 878 Nabob Ned} or, The Secret of Slab City. 882 Cool Kit, the King of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance, 488 Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher; or, A Son’s Vengeance, 486 Sealakin Sau, the Sparkler; or The Tribunal of Ten. 918 Kit Kelth, t ¢ Reveiue Spotter, BY J. ©, COWDRIOK, 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo. 514 Broadway ee Boodle: Clearing aStrange Case eet Brondway Billy's Death Racket. Broadway Billy's Surprise Party. Broadway Billy; or, The Boy Detective’s Big Inning. Broadway Billy’s Dead Acts or, The League of Seven Broadway Billy Abroad; or, The Bootblack in Frisco. Broadway 5 or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. 687 Broadway y in Clover. ee prenewey parte _" Texess or, The River Rustlers. roadway y’s Brand, 711 Broadway Billy at Santa Fe; or, The Clever Deal. Broaswez oye yell Rents or, The Gamin Detective, roadway y’s Business. Broadway Billy's Curious Case. Broadway Billy tn Denver. Broadway Billy’« Bargain; or, The Three Detective. Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective. Broadway Billy’s Shadow Chase. Broadway y’s Beagles; or, The Trio’s Quest. Broadway «4 Teamy or, The Combine’s Big Pull. Broadway Brigade; or, The Dead Alive, sears: Bil es eee Bequest. roadway affied. 5 Broadway igual Scoop. Broadway Billy’s Wipe Out. Brondway Billy’s Bank Racket. Broadway Billy’s Bluff. i Brondway Billy Ameng Jersey Thugs. } Broadway Billy’s Raid. Billy’s Big Boom, Billy's Big Bulge. Billy’s #100,000 Bnap. Billy’s Blind; or, The Bootblack Stowaway. Billy in London. Billy Shadows London Sluma. Billy’s French Game, Billy and the Bemb-Throwers. . Broadway 844 Broadway 849 Broadway 856 Broadway Broadway Broadway Broadway Kroadway 918 The Trump Dock-Boy. } 912 Train Boy Trist’s Hot Hustle, 906 Safety Sam, the Cyele Sport. 900 Jumptog Jack’s Jubilee. SST Battery Hob, the Dock Detective. 860 Silver-Mask, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Keys. 869 Shasta, the Gold King} or, For Seven Years 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. 506 Redlight Ralph_ the Prince of the Road, 524 The Engineer Detective; or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve Mart, the Night Express Detective. 571 Alr-Line Luke the Young Engineer; or, The Double Case 592 “he Boy Pinkerton; or, Running the Rascals Out. 615 Fighting HMarry the Chief of Chained Cyclone, 646 Gareback Beth, the Centaur of the Circle. 647 Typewriter Tilly, the Merchant's Ward. 659 Moonlight Morgan the “ Pisenest ” Man of Ante Bac, 894 Arizona Dick’s Wipe-Out. BY WILLIAM R, EYSTER, 190 Dandy Darke; or, The Tigers of High Pine. 210 Faro Frank: or, Dandy Darke’s Go-Down Pardt 818 The Muatler Rogue-Catcher. S88 Poker Pete’s Double Dodge, 851 The Tie-To Sport; or, High Hustling at Sinners’ Flat, S88 Monte Saul, the Sport. POL Diamond Dave, the Gliit-Edge Shooter, 91Y Crack-Shot Dat«y’« Drop, RY HAROLD PAYNE, 848 Dan, the River Sport; or. Foiling the Frisco Sharp. 892 Rowery Ben ln 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 1 or, The Pilot of the Prairie. ly-Eye. the Unknown Scout, or, The Banded Brotherhood 68 Border Robin Hoods or, The Prairle Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Colerado; or, The Trapper’s Trust. z : Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 920 New York Nat Trapped. 914 New York Nat's Three of a Kind. w York Nat’s Double, y York Nat’« in Colorado. y York Nat tu Gold Nugget Camp. York Nat’s Deadly Deal. y York Nat's Crook-Chase. y York Nat's Trump Card. y York Nat and the Grave Ghouls. y Vork Nat’ Masked Mascot. y York Nat, the Gamin Detective. 858 Dick Doom’s Kiduapper Knock-Out. 847 Dick Doow’s Ten Strike. 842 Dick Doom’s Flush Hand. 772 Dick Deoom'’s Death-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny. T7Z Dick Doom’s« Destiny; or, The River Blackleg’s Terror. 7R4 Dick Doom or, ‘the Sharps and Sharks of New York, 78S Dick Doom in Boston; or, A Man of Many Maske. 798 Dick Doom tn Chicago. 798 Dick Doom in the Wild West. 808 Dick Deom’s Clean Sweep; or, Five Links in a Clue, 808 Dick Doom’s Death Clue. 818 Dick Deom’s Diamond Deal. 819 Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot. 829 Dick Deom’s Shadow Hunt. 885 Dick Doom’s Big Haul. 749 Dashing Charlie; or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Traii. 756 Dashing Charlic’s Destiny: or, The Renegade’s Captive. 760 Dashing Charliie’s Pawnee Pard. 766 peaking Charlie, the Rescuer. 497 buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 787 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. 748 Buck Taylor's Boya; or, The Red Riders of the Rio Grande, 560 Pawnee f}1, the Prairie Shadower. 18 Pawnee Bil or Carl, the Mad Cowboy. 19 Pawnee Bill's Pledge; or, The Cowboy's Doom. 725 Pawnee Bill: or, Daring Dick, 692 HRedfern’s Curtoun Case: o:, The Rival Sharps. 697% Kedfern at Devil’s Kanchs or, The Sharp from Texas. 72 Redtern’s High Mand; or, Blue Jacket. OT Redfern’s Laat Trail; or, The Red Sombrero Rangers. 668 Red Ralph's Ruse: or, The Buccaneer Midshipman. 674 Red Kalph’s Beld Game; or, The Wizard Sallor, 679 Red Ralph, the Shadower, or, The Freebooter’s Legacy. 644 Butterfly Billy's Disguise. i 650 Butterfly Hilly, the Pony Express Rider. 656 Butterfly Hiliy’s Man Hunt. 662 Kutterfly Billy's Bonanza. And Fifty Others. BY J0 PIERCE, B9T Rob o’ the Bowery } or, The Prince of Mulberry Street. 415 The Vagabond Detectives or, Bowery Bob’s Boom. 452 Motapur nee the Street-Boy Detective. 460 The Touye «* Shadows or Luke’s Legacy. 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horse-King. 494 Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective, 504 Five Polatsa Phil, the Pavement Prince. 509 Jack J ers, the Butcher Boy Detective. 516 Tartar Tim; or, Five Points Phil’e Menagerie. ~- 526 North River Nat, the Pier Detective. 588 Wrestling Rex, the Pride ofthe 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, 669 Brooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook Detective. 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, 588 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. ROR Wide-Awake Berty 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 Slippery Set. 658 Sky-Rocket Rob, the Lite-Saver, 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator 694 Rpicy Jim, the Only One of His Kind. 706 Tom Thistle, the Road-Honse Detective. T1Z Moaquite Jack, the Hustler Gamin. 726 Denni« Duff the Brows Sport’s Kid. 744 Dick of the Docka, the Night-W atch. 765 Flipper Fly an, the Street Patrol. 771 Foxy Fred's Odd Pard; or, The Keener’s Huge Hustle, 781 Cast-Off Cale, the Scapegoat Detective. 824 Rowery Billy, the Bunco Bouncer, S87 The Ble Four of the Bowery. 846 Buck, the New York Sharper. 850 The Grand Street Arab. 855 The Weat Broadway Gamin, 860 The Boat-Club Mascots or, Dan Decker’s Double Dent 864 The Union Square Baggage Roy. S78 The Street Arab’s Blind. S86 The Five Points Lodging House Janitor, 890 Ace High, the Trump Card Detective. 895 Fifth Avenue Fred, the Valet Detective. 899 Banement Bert, the Bov Cobbler Detective. 908 Billy Blue-Blazes, the Dodger ofthe Docks, 907 Reddy Rusher, Nell-Boy 4-11.44. 915 Flip Flasher, Ferret, of [East Broadway. LATEST AND NEW ISSUES. 921 The Boy from Denver; or, Fighting the Toughs ot Dead- set. By T,C. Harvaugh. $22 Sol Shar Detective; or, Hayseed Ramsey's Double Find. By Edward L. Wheeier. 928 Gold-Dust Dan’s Snap-Shot; or. The Deadwood Specu- lator’s Blind, .By John W. Osbon. Big Boots Bob, the Fire-Laddle: or, The Dandy Ne- tective’a Double-up, By J. C, Cowarick. The Young. Cowbey Captain; or, Rounding-up the Jreasers. By T. J. Flanagan. New York Nat and the Traitor Ferret: or, Ihe Girl Mascot’s Best Score. By Col) Prentiss Ingraham. Kid Bandy’ Brigade tin Arizona; or, Biack Vulcan's Redwood Terrors. By Ol! Coomes., c Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Dollarville} or, The Irish- man’s Sweepstakes, By E. L. Wheeler, Buffalo Bill's Crack-shot Pard; or, The Tendorfoot in 924 925 926 927 928 929 the Wild West. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. 980 Kuatler Ralph, the Bey Spotter; or, Jigger’s Grand Bulge. Vy J, C. Cowdrick. : ‘ 981 The Sport in Velvet; or, Big Burk’s Bla. By Wm, R. Eyster. 982 New York Nat’s Drop? or, Ex-Ferret Sykes’ Bold Gane. By Col, P. Ingraham. 988 The Two ‘Midshipmen; or, The Corsair-Chaser’s Firat Cruise. By T. J. Flanagan. : 984 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Flush Flats; or, The Girl Sport Pard. By Ed. L. Wheeler. , 985 The Ex-Newaboy_Detecttve’s Apprentice; or, Bob Buckle’s Big Inning. ByJ. C. Cowdrick, 986 Buffalo Hills Boy Mascot. By Col. P. Ingraham. 987 Brazos Billy's Snap-Shot; or, The Texan Firebrand’s Chief, By Lieut. A. K. Sims. 988 The Sport of Two Citles; or, Jingo Jim's High Haul. . By Je Plere. A New lesuc Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library is for sale by sll newadealers, tve gents por eopy, or sent by mail om receipt of six conts onch. SADLY AP APARS, CN ra,