Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 976) (1896 04 07)
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Entered as Second Class Matter at the New York, N. Copyrighted 1896, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, April 7, 18y6. No.976. a "Year. | sents. VOL, XXXVIIL nL a Hi!
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enou oO Re ein Laesstt Plucky Dan, Plucky Dan: THE BOY SPY-DETECTIVE; OR, A GREENHORN ON GUARD. 7 .e Story of What a Foundling Found. BY NED ST. MEYER. CHAPTER I, DAN OVERHEARS A PLOT, “T7’s a boid undertaking.” **T admit it,” ** And we may get caught.” ** True.” ** And sent to the State Prison,” “Tf caught—yes. But, you mustn’t expect to bag e ten toousand dollarswag without running some risk,” Dan Dart listened to these words with pro- found surprise. He was a new-comer to New York, and bad just dropped into a restaurant for something to eat. The conversation which he had overheard had been carried'on by two men who occupied the table next to his own--the tables being separated by a small blind partition, making little apart- iments for the customers, One of these men was, apparently, fifty years of ags—tall and rather morose-looking—not of prepossessing appearance, certainly. The other man, evidently, was much younger, and, in dress, somewhat or a dude, Both were so interested in the subject under discussion as not to beed the danyer of being overheard by any customer beyond the screeu, end almost holding his breath the boy waited for them to continue, ** Maybe it’s not ten thousand dollars’ worth,” continued tha younger man, ‘and maybe it’s more, Old Shepland bas a pile of stuff, ant you kno~ musical instruments count up fast, especiaily precious old violins of which he has a dozen or more,” Vos; but—” ** On, come, Brooks, don't-—”. “shut up! Why do you always drag my name iv? Don’t say Brooks again!” ‘Sure enough; | forgot,” returned the elder man. ‘ Bat, remember, we mustn’t lose time, It is quick work now for big profits or give the job up.” ' . ** Rather take time than make a botch of it, Nick,” warned the other, ** Now who is calling names?” ‘¢ Did T mantion your right name? Not much I didn’t! Yon well know | don’t give away a pard, m that way,” f ‘* Well, this place is too public, anyway. Let ' us teake a walk and doour talking as we tramp. . NN» one au hear us then.” The two arose, and, stepping to the cashier’s desk, settle! their check, Then they quit the restaurant, }ut not before the country iad bal taken a shurp look at each, so as to be sure of his men if be followed. * Something’s up,” declared the boy to bimaelf —something bad,'too. Lshouldn’t besurprised if it was rubbery. Yes, it is that, sure, and nothing ‘else, Wonder if I ought to tall the police?) Can it be possible that the Sbeplana they mentioned is the same gentiernan I am go- iug to see? tis not a comm.n name, so it may be my old friend.” ’ Dan Dart was a foundling. About fift ears previous, when a mere baby, be had been ounl in the snow, on one of the mountain roads near Grayville. — ’ : The one to discover and save him was Enos Masson, the village blacksmith, Fatuer Ma-son, 2s be wax called, was an old bachelor, but he had taken the foundling iv and cared for him notil the boy was ten years of age. \ Then the worthy blacksmiih died, leaving not a cent behind, and for five years the luckless Dan trnocked around the village, earning barely z to keep body and soultrgether. ae night, while returning from a moonlight hunt, Dan heard cries ted help, and, rushing up, Dan was a strong boy, ond of brave spirit, and Jumping in he bit one of the men over the head with his gun and instantly covered the other with the weapon. Bic te " Both, of the astonished villains got out of | peta range and sight as quickly as possible, and the _ stout gentleman grasped the boy’s hand ee a ee ee ‘* Well done!” he exclaimed, ‘{ What is your boarding-house?” wenton theincipient detectiveR ** Live around here?’ ** Yes, sir—all around,” ** All around? Whaat do you mean?” ‘* Anywhere that I get a chance for work. I haven’t any regular home now,” 4 Tbe gentleman became interested, and made the homeless la:! tell his st ry. ; ** [¢’s tough luck,” he said, at the conclusion, ‘* But you’ve dons mea great service, and I want to reward you, Here iv a twenty-dollar bill. Accept it with my thanks, I’ve got five thou- sand dollars in this valise, but it’s all sealed up and isn’t mine,” ‘** But I don’t deserve—” ‘* A boy like you deserves all he can get, But I’ve got to hurry to catch the train to New York, Hereismycard, If you ever come to the city call on me, and maybe I'll be able to do something for you,” And ina moment the stranger was hurrying to the railroad-station as fast as bis heavy form would permit, Dan had looked at the card. It read: ‘“WREDERIC SHEPLAND, Importer of Musical Instruments. Maiden Lane, New York.” ‘He's a true gentleman,” were the boy’s words, ‘“‘ Hope I'll meet bim again.” Two mouths later, the bomeless boy tired of Grayville, and, packing his few belongings in a ‘* erip,” he started out to seek his fortune in the great metropolis, ‘*Can’t be any worse than it is in Grayville,” he had decided. ‘‘Get more kicks than cake here every day in the week, and not a person In all this region who would pay a dime to bury me,” lt was afternoon when he arrived in the great, noisy, teeming, swarming metropolis with tne menger sum of three dollars in bis pocket, his entire capital. \ Feeling hungry he had determine’ to eat be- fore starting to find Mr, Shepland’s place of business, the first point to which he had decided to proceed. He.did not know much about restaurants, and | so dropped into the first at band, and had near- ly finished his modest meal when the conversa- tion narrated came to his hearing. Hastily finishing he walked up to the desk. ‘Do you know the two men who just left?” he asked the cashier, as he paid the amount of them,” continued Dan, apologetically. “They've been coming here regularly every rel for a week,” went on the man behind the esk, ** And you don’t know them?” |. “I think one of them is called Brooks.” * And the other?” “] don’t know, them?” ‘* Guess I will,” returned Dan, and he left, Tae two men were nd jonger iu sight, but the ecuntry lad had no intentiou of following them, He thought it best to cail on his fgiend Mr. Suepland at once, ** Perhaps he’s: not the Shepland, but, if he pati he'll certainly advise me-what’s best to Aw,’ : On inquiring he learned that Maiden Lane was fully a mile from the restaurant, and not wisaing to lose time he jumped aboard a horse- car and took a seat, Why don’t you go after What was his astonishment a moment later, to learn tbat he bad seated himself next to the dudish-looking young man called Brooks! ‘‘ Here’s a go!” thought Dan, “| think I'll ba Si find out something about this promoter!” an was neatly dressei, and as one of the fow friends he had left in Grayville had given him a new vollar and a neat tie, he looked quite re- , Spectable. ‘* Warm day,” he remarked, politely, ‘* Yes, it is, and dusty, too,” replied the young man, good-naturedly. ‘*\t is worse in the country,” averred Dan. _ “*Come from the country? \ ** You'll find it a lively place.” j. = a a =} 4 Z g 3 ry 3 S a = laughed, the town,” be replied. “Bat Lam! Kuow every nook and corner in is d he r a | an audible sigh, as if some painful remembraiuge ki **Tben maybe you can direct me toa good ! Lie —_—_— bound to keep the coaversation going. ‘* Certainly. ject to another boarder,’ ‘* Where do you board?” ; ‘¢ At Mrs, Smart’s, on Waverley Place. She gives good board, and don’t make you think a pile-driver had struck your pocket-book when she talks terms.” ““Thank you for your ivoformation, Mr ——- ‘* My name is Brooks—F. Carter Brooks. And yours?” ‘ ‘*Dan Dart. I come from Grayville,” ‘‘ All right, Daniel, Come up and see Mrs, Smart. It’s a good house, aud we're ail friendly there.” ‘**T will,” the boy replied, The young man stepped from the car and hur- ried down a side street, “A smart-looking boy,” he said, to himself. “ From the country, and therefore green. Hope he comes up. Perhaps Nick and I can use him,” ‘Not a bad fellow in his talk,” Dan reflected, as he rode along. ‘But they say Satan he: & smoother tongue than uny parson, ani Siu-B and Mister Brooks may be on intimate terni 4 friendship; so I guess I'll investigate,” . ln a few minutes Maiden Lane was reac «+d, and, alighting, Dan walked down to Mr. Snen land's establishment, ; The country boy was astonished at tho siz) of the place. He bad expected to see something big, but nothing as immense as tois. ‘Mr, Sheplani must certainly be a very rich man,” he thought; and he was right. Eatering the ground floor of the premises, he advanced to where a clerk was busy writing. ‘*T would like to see Mr, Shepland,” he said. ‘*Mr. Shepland is very busy now,” was the reply. ‘* What is it you wish?” ‘* Wish to see him,” was Dan’s answer, “In fact, { must see him.” The clerk stare! at the caller. ‘* He is very busy,” he repeated. ** Then L'il wait,” ‘‘ He may not be at leisure for an hour or two,” / “Can't help it; (1 wait anyhow.” ‘‘ May Task your name?” — ; ** Dan Dart.’ ‘11 send it in.” “Do, Tell bim I cailed on private business,” Tbe clerk eyed Dan curiously, Then he dis- appexred into an inner ¢flive. “Mr, Stepland will see you in a few mo- ments,” he announced, when he reappeared. ‘* All right,” and Dan seemed at his ease, Presently an elderly gentleman stepped from the inner office and left by the street door. ‘You can go in now,” said the clerk to Van, A moment later Dan was inside of Mr, Shep- land’s private cflice, - ” OHAPTER. TI. DAN OBTAINS STRANGE EMPLOYMENT. Mr. SHEPLAND'S private upartmert was a handsome aud comfort ble one, The: esks were of the roller-top variety, the chairs richly up- holstered, and the walls beautifully; papered and hung with fineengravings. -In One corner stood a massive safe, the open door of which revealed well-filled compartments, which contents Dan was certain must be valu- able, Mr. Shepland arose as the boy entered. Ho looked even stouter than before, and turned a benignant face upon the lad, “* Well, well, my young friend!” heexcla med. “ Glad to see you. Come to town ona visit?” “No, sir; Pve come to try my luc!,” replie? Dan, promptly and confidently. — | “Try your lucc, eh? It’s a hard job here, as you will find, I fear:” t ty - Tt can’t be harder here than it is in Grayville —I’'m sure of that, sir.” “ Humph! I don’t know about that. What do you expect todo, my lad?” >. cn ‘“‘ Anything I can get that pays and is honest, Work agrees with me.” | *Gota trade? 14 ve yay 3 \ ‘*[ used to help my father, or rather the man who took careof me, at theforge. I worked the bellows, but I didn’t much fancy that trade, It’s too dirty and hum-drummy, I'd like to get into some store or office,” eee “*T believe you told me once that you was @ foundling.” ] ts “ Yes, sir,” sadly——“ a boy without a name, va) River find out anything about yourself?” ote irae a tood in his eye and wo) vy , ti be Mr. Shepland sat silent for a moment. ¥ thing like a'tear s of thy past was brought to mind. Guess my landlady wouldn’t ob- | ay mi : * bay
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_ procedure,” Ma want you to watch Brooks, { **You never expect to either, I suppose,” he marked. . **Not likely, Father Masson tried hard to discover someclew, but it was no use, I’m onl Dan Dart, the foundling, and no one else, muc to my sorrow.” ** How would you like to enter my employ?” ** First-rate, sir. I’m sure Il could piease you.” “10s bard work,” **T won't mind that,” “¢ And the pay is small,” ** Is it enough to hve on, decently?” Oh, yes,” *¢ Then I'll be glad to take it.” ** But, you might do better, my boy, I don’t really need help, and so cannot afford to pay as much as you night earn elsewhere, I can give a, seven dollars a week, at present—that is all.’ re ’ Seven dollars a week ! Dan’s heart gave a jump. **Seven dollars!” he exclaimed, ‘Ob, thank you, Mr, Suepland! It’s more than I ho to *tart on, Why, i’ve only got three dollars in vy pocket now, and seven corhing in every week will seem a mint of money to me, sir!” ‘The rich importer smiled. ‘Hardly. But next week I may make a «snange in the stock-room, and then I'll put you there, and you'll be advanced rapidly if you oe worthy of it. Do you want to go to work now ** Yes, sir; the socner the better. But I've got some private business with you before I go,” Mr, Shepland looked surprised. ** What is it?” Word for word Dan repeated the conversa- tion he bad overheard in the restaurant. The importer listened. attentively, and that he was considerably perplexed was evident. ** Brooks is in my employ,” he said. ‘‘ But he has grown so careless that I have been think- ing of discharging him—the change I just spoke about. Come with me, I want to be sure that the man you met in the restaurant and my clerks are one and the same person,” ' Mr. Shepland led the way out of his private cffice into a side hallway, and then through a labyrinth of boxes and stock to the rear of the building. ** Don’t let the clerks see you,” he whispered. ** But tell me if you see the man you met in the eating-bouse.” Dan gazed carefully around. “There he is!” be returned, as the dudish- a young man came along, carrying sev- eral violins in bis arms, ‘Sure? Don't make a mistake, now, for it may be a serious matter,” ‘* Positive, sir,” replied the boy, confidently. Without further words the importer led the way back to his office. @ was much disturbed, and looked at the foundling boy inquiringly. ‘*T know {i can trust you,” be finally said. **T hav’n’t forgotten what you did for me sev- eral months ago, and your warning to me now is only another evidence of your honesty and good will. Can you keep a secret, Daniel?” #5 on try me and see,” returned the lad, uickly. | ‘*} want to tell you because you may be of service in this matter. A boy can often go un- noticed where a man cannot.’ ‘* You want me to play spy?” ‘¢ Yes, but only in the cause of honesty and justice.” “Then I'll take the job. But maybe you un- derstand what I overheard better than I do my- self,” Dan suggested. Ai “A little better, but not much. Weeks ago I noticed that there were mistakes in Brooks's ac- counts, and now I am sure that he is robbing me, **But, how can he’do it? Wouldn’t he be caught if he tried to leave the place with any of) your goods?” : “ Not if be was sly enough. Every one in the establishment is trusted, more or less, as it is . mecessary. I would like to know who that other man you met in the restaurant is. Brooks ign’t ee such a bad fellow, and maybe he’s only being led ni i others, who are using him.” } “That's what I thought probable at the ae that extent I want to know it. Now liste Daniel, for we must at once Jay our plans _* ¥es, sir. Only let me know your wishes or ordérs, and Pil ee them to the letter,” ~ Well, then, of coming here to work e has invited / m * can’t make out about that bagging ten | thousand dollars, If they are going to rob me to you to board at the place where be is staying. Go there and get a room—one next to his, if possible. I will discharge him this week, as I already had determined to do. We will see what he does then, and shadow his every move- ment,” “Til do it, sir.” “T will pay whatever expenses you may in- cur,” continued Mr. Shepland, banding over a bill. ‘* Here are ten dollars for astarter. Re- port to me every day, and when you need more funds don’t hesitate to say so.” ‘* fT won't, sir; but I ought not to have to use much money in merely watching him.” ‘* Perhaps not; but be sure to find out some- thing about this friend of Brooks, If he is the party that I think he is, he isa personal enemy of mine, avd will not hesitate to do all in his power to injure me, not even hesitating at a criminal act. He, therefore, is the man to watch,” ‘*f understand,” replied Dan. ‘‘ And [ll do ust what you want me to, It isn’texactly what expected, but if it is to serve you l’ll do my best, rest assured of that, sir.” After a few careful instructions from Mr, Shepland, Dan left the office. It did not take him long to reach Broadway, — a horse-car soon took him to Waverley place, Mrs, Smart’s boarding-house was a modest brick dwelling, one of several in a block all probably built at one time, twenty or more years ago, when Waverley place was regarded as a very respectable dence street. Ascending the steps, he rung the bell, and a tidy girl appeared. “This is Mrs. Smart’s boarding-house, I be- lieve,” said Dan, “Yes, sir,” ** Ts the lady in?” ** Yes, sir. Will you step in?” Dan accepted the invitation, and was ushered into the parlor. In a moment Mrs. Smart, a short, pleasant- lo king woman appeared. ‘“*T am looking for a place to board,” explained Dan. ‘‘Is your name Dart?’ asked the boarding- house-keeper, eying the boy scrutinizingly—as all boarding-house-keepers do every new ap- plicant. , «Yes, ma’am; that is my name.” “Mr. Brooks just sent me a note that you might call.” This perplexed Dan. ‘*Mr, Carter Brooks is taking a decided inter- est in me,” he thought. ‘ But, never mind; Ill return tbe compliment—with interest, if I don’t miss my guess,” : “ He says you are looking for board.” “Yes, ma'am. Can you accommodate me?” The landlady again looked at the lad search- ingly, and then showed that she was pleased by his general appearance as well as by his prompt and frank speech, ‘“*] guess so. I have two rooms, one on the second and another on the third floor, that are vacant. Would you like to look at them?” ** Yes, ma’am, if it isn’t too much trouble.” ‘** None at all; it’s business.” The two ascended to the second floor. “*Here’s one of the rooms,” said Mrs. Smart, poineins itout. ‘That, with board, is ten dol- ars per week,” ‘* Where is Mr. Brooks’s room?” “On the third floor, next to the one I’m going to show you.” | This was good news.. Dan immediately lost interest in the apartment on the second floor, at any — ** Suppose we go up there,” he said, ‘I'd like to be near Mr. Brooks—he has taken such an in- terestinme. Besides, I suppose, being up higher it’s cheaper.” ; ‘Hight dollars a week, with board,” ‘* That willsuit mebetter. I’m nomillionaire, and want to pay my way as I go, so must live within my means,” Of course the applicant for board expressed himself perfectly satisfied with the room on the third floor, Viren ‘Pl take it at once,” he said. ‘I have my valise with me, and—what time is it?” ‘* Five o'clock.” ** When do your boarders dine?” * At half. pase “Then [ll have a wash and make myself at ‘home until] that hour. Here is your money for one week in advance.” _ Dan handed Mrs. Smart the ten-dollar bill Mr, Shepland bad given bim. 6 HSK Taking out a well-worn wallet the landlady passed over twodollors inchanze, wr ae st ¥ Plucky Dan, the Boy Spj-Detective. | a ‘“'Thank you, sir!” she said respectfully. ‘‘I guess you'll find everything all right. If thero’s anything you want, just ring the bell and I’li send one of the girls up to answer.” ** All right.” A moment later Dan was left alone, Remoy- ing bis coat and collar, he took a hasty wash and brushed his hair, Then he stepped out into the hallway. No ope was in sight, and leaving his door oprr so as to beat a hasty retreat if necessary, be enter- ed Carter Brooks’s apartment, lt was aroom somewhat similar to his own, though more elegantly furnished. A violin rested on a stand in one corner, and on the wall bung a banjo and a guitar, ‘* Wonder if those instruments were all paid for?” solilequized the amateur detective, as be gazed around. Near the end of the bed stood a trunk. Dan ‘| hesitated a second, but considering that his ac- tions were in the cause of justice, he raised the lid and peered in. At first he saw nothing but clothing. But ; presently there came to light a bunch of inlaid and solid ivory violin pegs, ‘* Mr. Shepland is right. Heis being robbed without a doubt,” thought Dan, ‘‘ Brooks has no use for all th things; and, besides, [ doubt if a fellow like him could ever uffurd them,” A further search into the trunk revealed sev- eral bundles of violin and banjo strings, the value of which Dan could not even guess, though he was sure it must be considerable, In one corner of the room was a closet, but a turning of the door-knob showed that it was locked. ‘* Wish it was open,” said Dan to himself. Tl] venture to guess Brooks doesn’t keep it locked for nothing.” Dau’s foster-father had combined locksmith- ing with his horse-shoeing, so the foundhng knew something about the former trade. ‘*Wonder how much time I’ve got before Brooks comes home?” he queried. He remembered having seen an old family clock in the hall below. He glided down t'e stairs and found that it was just half-past five. ** An hour before supper,” he thought, ‘* lil venture it.” On his table Dan had seen several hair-pins— whether belonging to Mrs. Smart or a former | occupant of the room, he did not know. It took but a few seconds to get one of the hair-pins and begin bending it into hook shapes to work the lock. . His first effort was a failure, and so was the ‘ second, All the while be kept his ears on the alert for fear of being caught by some one coming up from below. The street door opened several times, and each time he left his work and sprung out into the ball, } His third effort was a success, and the closet door swung open, Dan gave acry of surprise. : The Bis was full of musical instruaients of all descriptions—some of them bare and others wrapped up in paper bags. There were accordeons, concertinas, fine flutes and clarionets, as well as several band-ome sil- . ver cornets, and one or two old violins, that. the sharp-witted boy knew must be valuable, ‘*Pm not much of a judge. of these things,” his thongbts ran, ‘‘but I’m satisfied that a thousand-dollar bill wouldn’t buy all this stuff, even at wholesale price. How Brooks could get it here without being discovered is a mystery to me. Can it be possible that Mrs, Smart is in the secret?” But Dan was not willing to believe this of tha woman, The face of the landlady was candor. : itself, and he did not doubt for an instant bu: that she was innocent of any complicity in her - boarder’s wrong-doing. » ‘But Pm sure of one thing,” he thought, - be ‘and that is that all this stuff Shepland.” A moment later he heard the door belory slam to, and then hasty steps bounded up th» stairs. : longs to Mr, The inspector hardly had time to close ths closet door and step into the middle of the room before Carter Brooks appeared, » “ Hello!” he exclaimed, sharply. ‘‘ What are you doing in my room?” _. 4 CHAPTERR ATL 6:4) Cire, DAN GETS INTO A TIGHT PLACE. ~~ For an instant t manner possible, — | Dan hesitated, hardly know.
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** { saw your instruments hanging on the wall, a> I passed your door, and 1 couldn't resist the teraptation to come in and look at them,” he re- sued. ‘IT hope you'll excuse me for being so ‘orward.” Carter Brooks smiled. - “ Certainly,” he replied. you please, Do you play?” **] thump the banjo a little,” answered Dan, which was the truth. “I'd like to hear you play some time,” re- turned Brooks, pleasautly. He had been very pale on first entering the room, and was now doing his best to recover his self-possession, as Dau observed. **Do you play much?” asked the boy. *“* Hardly any.” ** It’s queer, and so many instruments, too.” * Yes, I’ve tries them all, but l’m no mu- sician, and that’s all there 1s to it. You can’t l-arna cat to bark or.a cow to climb a tree, Bat I'm glai you foun the place, and have ade arrangements to stay, as I suppuse you h.ve, by your being here.” ‘* Yes, I have taken a room here, and I think Wil ike it,” *: Bet you will—especially after you've par- taken of one of her old-fashioned suppers. Hark! there goes the bell now! Better go down, I'll be down in a jiffy—just want to change my shoes—these hurt like the tooth- ache.” | **T will go down. I suppose I’ll have to be in- troduced all sround.” Dan walked down-stairs, feeling rather un- easy. The closet door was still unlocked, and Brooks might discover tbe fact, in which case Daa hardly knew what might happen. ** Must take the chances,” ne said to himself *‘T’ve undertaken the job, and I’m going to see it through, if I don’t make a botch of the busi- ‘* Look at them all But a few moments later Brooks came down, and his ea~y manrer apparently showed that he bad made no unwelcome discovery. Just before sitting down, Dan excused bim- self, and saying something about getting a handkerchief, ran up-stuirs and relocked the closet door once more, putting his extemporized key in his pocket for possible use in the fu- tore. Mrs. Smart’s boarders numbered about a doz-n, and Dan wus introduced tw all, as he had acticipated. ‘“*Come to the city to work?’ asked Brooks, when the meal was finished, * Yes; got tired of the humdrum country and tere I am.” ** It’s pretty bard to get a hold.” ** ve got work with a friend.” “Oh! What at?” *“*[ don’t understand it fully yet,” replied Dan. “I only saw my friend for a little while this afternoon, It pays pretty well.” “‘That’s the main thing,” replied Brooks, heartily. Nevertheless he looked disappointed. ** Confound it!” he mused; ‘‘if the boy didn’t have any job, and littie money, I might tempt him all the quicker. Guess I'll have to wait my chance, now,” ** What are you going to do with yourself to- night?” he asked. ** Nothing in particular.” « Just my case. But Ill see if I can’t ar- range it so as we can havea jolly time to- morrow, if you will.” | + [m in for fun,” returned Dan, Presently Carter Brooks put on bis hat and left the boarding-house, and of course the ama- Sar Sdetective was not slow in following lo, Brovks passed up the street to Broadway, where, at the corner,a man met him as if by eh ape mee y the electric light Dan recognized the elder- ly individua) who had been in the restaurant with Brooks earlier in the day. f The two, after a quiet greeting dnd brief walk down Broadway, arm in arm, turned down a side street, Dan following close behind, of course taking good care that he should not be discovered, . At dength the two mem came to a rather dilapidated building in a west side street that wes little better than an alley. Entering the ball of thi= house, they ascended the stairs leading direct from the dirty entrance to the floor above. Dan hesitated. Sbould he follow them? What would be the risk? The ball was dark and deserted. Apparently no persons were within bearing, **It’s a big venture,” he “but Pl pe TN ARS ae FN I SR St ES a SR Bi eS A i ES IS A Pre ae make it. It is business, and that is what Dan gaveasharp glance into the corner and th? Dart is in for now.” In a seeond he was on the stairs, ing to breathe, he crept noiselessly to the first landing above. A hgnt streamed through the cracks of a door in the rear of the second hall. Making his way to this door, he peeped through the key-hole, The room seemed to be empty; not a soul was to be seen, “Tuat’s queer. entered this room.” At that moment camea noise from the hall below, and the investizator bad barely time to crouch behind a big dirt-box in the corner ere a burly nan came up and passed into the room, opening and shuttiog the door as quickly as pos- sible, ‘** Now he’scome in, I'll see if he is there,” Dan decided, and once again applied his eye to the key-hbole. As before, the room was empty! ‘‘ That settles it; that room only leads to an- Other, and I’m going in.” Silently the resolute boy opened the door and entered, A smoking lampswung froma bracket on the wall, By itsrays he saw a narrow pas- suge leading to the right side of the building. A murmur of voices reached his ears. Step- ping down this side passage he came t» another oor, Near it was an angle in the wall that at one time had been used as a place of storage, Several boxes and barrels were piled there, and, breathing a sigh of relief, the spy crept be- hind them. On the ceiling above him shone a sma!l round pateh of light, Looking up Dan found that it was caused by the light shining through an open stove-pipe hole about eight feet from the floor. It did not take the alert lad long to place a box in po-ition, and, standing upon it, he bad a side glance into the room beyond. Toe sight that met his gaze nearly caused him to cry out with astonishment. There were the two men as well as two others, The party was seated about a table drinking, smoking and talking. I’m sure the pair of them But, what attracted the pipe-bole spy’s arten- | tion was the articles that were lying in one cor- ner—several sets of iron and steel tools, two dark-lanterns, a massive bunch of keys of all kinds and sizes, and half a duzeu black masks, ‘* Burglars’ outfits, as sure as I’m a sinner!” gasped the boy at the pipe hole. ‘Guess I’ve struck a regular nest of them and no mistake.” iy listened eagerly to catch what was being “Tsay, Nick, you hav’n’t shown us that key yet,” remarked the burly ruffian who had been the last to enter. Toe elderly man drew from the inside pocket of his coat a large brase store-key. ‘* Sure it will fit?” asked the other. ‘*} had it made from the wax impression Brooks gave me.” g *‘ Then you can rest assured it’s all right,” put in Brooks, ‘'I was very careful with tbat im- pression. It’s a good thing we’ve got it, too.” ‘© Why so, Brooksey ?” “Tve received notice that my services won’t be required after next week.” “rhe deuce you say! Do they suspect any- thing?” ‘*T guess not, I’ve been rather lazy lately, on my books, and I think that’s the trouble.” ** Never mind,” broke in the man who had not yet spoken. ‘ After to-night’s work none of us will want to do much except to spend money for awhile.” “‘ You're right,” replied the discharged book- keeper; ‘‘I go in for easy—” Crack! Tne box-top upon which Dan was standing had suddenly collapsed ! The noise was distinct and sharp, and all four men sprung to their feet, ** Some one’s in the hall!” exclaimed the elder- A man. “4 spy! Don't let him get away alive |’ - CHAPTER IV. DAN MAKES SEVERAL MOVES, Dan’s heart nearly jumped into bis throat. Would the four men discover bim? And, if they cid, what would be the consequence? astily stepping down from the box he deftly slid behind a tall shutter which stood in the corner, Near by lay a piece of old rubber cloth, evidently used at times to protect goods from the rain, and this he quickly pulled over him. A moment later one of the men came out. He Plucky Dan, the Boy Spy-Detective. ' strode down the hall and through the room hbe- Hardly dar- | yone, ‘lishment, The spy kept so still he bardly breathed. He had no weapon of any kind with him. and real z-d that be was io an extremely perilous position, All of the others followed the first man into the hall. They looked around searchingly, and Brook: even gave several of the boxes a shove with his foot. ‘* Guess we must have been mistaken,” he re- marked, as the man who had run out first came back. ‘See any one, Baxter?” ** No,” replied the man addressed, ‘‘If there was any one here he got away mighty lively,” ‘‘How could be?” put in the elderly man. ‘‘He wouldn’t know how to open the door. [’s easy enough to get in, but getting out is quite another matter.” This was news to Dan. ‘Easy enough to get in but quite another matter to get out!” he repeated to himself. ‘* What does that mean?’ Presentiy the four men entered the rendez- vous, and, taking good care not to make any further noise, Dan waited for them to continue their conversation. ‘© Well, we'd better be moving,” declared the elderly man to his pals, ‘‘ You have the horse and wagon?” be continued turning to the burly burglar, who was named Baxter, ‘Yes, it’s in the stable ready to start,” was Baxter’s reply, ‘Then lev’s go over there. What time is it?” ““Ten minutes to nine,” ‘Four hours yet. Put all the tools in a bag and we'll go over to Pop Morgan’s and tell bim to be prepared to receive the loot.” “1m glad it’s a dark night,” observed Brooks, _ Dan imagined that the dude’s voice trem- **So am I,” replied the man wio had thus far had little tosay. ‘ It’s never toocark f rme, especially when tbe job’s such @ ticklix<b one as this of breaking old Shepland’s strong box.” It did not take the quartette long to pack up what was to be taken along. This done, they blew out the hght and left the building. Dan tried to follcw, but came to a suddem halt, The door was locked. ‘* This will never do!” be. exclaimed to bim- self, ‘*Here [ um locked in, and in four hours those men intend to rob Mr. Shepland’s estab- If I can’t get out and head off their villainous game I’m no good, and better pack ve. ! grip and go back to Grayvillo, at once.’ he door was an ordinary one about an inch thick. The lock was of a common kind, and had there been any light Dan might have picked it, readily. But it was dark; and, moreover, no time was to be lost. ; As we have said, Dan was muscular for his ae Se now his strength stood him in good stead, Patting his shoulder to the door, he pushed with all bis might, Tbe door yielded, and then there was @ erack, and the lock was shivered into several pieces, Of course the door opened when the lock broke, and passing through the doorway, and also through the next, Dan darted down into the street. The men were out of sight, but the boy in pe ran down to one corner and then up to the other. But it was no use, The delay in the hallway bad made him lose the trail of the would-be robbers. ‘ What was to be done next? “Tf I only knew where Mr. Shepland lived, I’d see him at once, I'd rather tell him than put the case in the hands of the police, He wey would know just the right thing to 0. On the corner was a drug store, Entering, Dan walked hastily to a clerk who was busy putting up a prescription. ** Have you a city Directory?” he asked, ‘We have,” was tbe reply. ‘Can I see it for a moment?” ** Yes,” curtly. The clerk went on with the medicinehe was ation g Dan waited a moment in silence, ‘Can [ see the Directory at once?” he asked, politely. ‘‘ It is necessary that I find a person’s address immediately.” ‘* What's the matter? Some one hurt?” “ No, sir.” ** Sick, ag ool “No, it isn’t that, either, but—” © : s Guess you can wait a moment or two
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‘ai “mg atime to wait. And the clerk calmly proceeded with his work, * But I can’t!” exclaimed Dan, somewhat ruf- “You'll have to,” was the decisive reply. **See here, don’ ¢ bean idiot!” cried tne boy. “*]7 wouldn’t say 1t was necessary if it wasn’t.” Just then the proprietor of the store stepped out from a room in the rear, ‘“*Show the young man the book, Collins,” he ordered; ‘‘it would have taken less time to get it than to do so much talking.” With a sullen face the clerk got the volume and slammed it pes on the counter. ’ ** You don’t, hey? **No, I don’ t think so; I know I’m smart.” Dan turned to tho Directory, and grumbling to himself the clerk walked away, It did not take long to find out that Mr. Shep- Jand lived on East Eighty -third street, and put- ting down the number, Dan cajled out his thanks to the proprietor and burried off, An Elevated station was but two blocks away, and making for it he ran up the stairs and asked how near they ran to where he wanted to §0. Finding that it was but a few blocks he paid his fare and walked out on the platform, Intwo minutes the train came along and he | got aboard, sitting down in one of the middle seats. Opposite to him sat an elderly woman, She was plainly dressed and her face looked tired end haggard, She started upon seeing Dan, and stared at tim in such a manner that he finally began to grow uncomfortable, The window of the car was open, and present- ly the night air begav to blow in strongly, rest Shak I close the window?” asked Dan, od It you please,” replied the woman, and then ce mtinued hesitatingly: ‘‘ Hav’n't 1 met you be- fore?” “Not as £ kaow of, ma‘am,” returned the Boy Spy. - Perhaps he mistaken. You come from the city I su “erty ” i Ne a a country boy. sath come from Grayville, in the upper part of the State.” The woman gave a shortcry.’ ** What did dr say?” asked Dan. * Nothing—I—I guess ('m mistaken, May I ask our name?” n Dart.” s Then 1 am mistaken.” The woman relapsed into silence, and pres- ently Dan’s station wus reached and he got off, Se did the woman. “* Hello!” excluimed the watchful boy, to him- self; ‘‘ € wonder if she can be following me?” On Ei hty-third street Dan found himself abont a hundred yards away from Mr. Shep- land’s residence, But be wasa good walker and soon covered the distance. As he ascended the stone Levene leading to the front door he looked behind The old woman was still following him! * Here’s a go!” be thought, “It may beall a «incidence, but it looks ey peculiar.” Without ringing the bell, Dan stepped into the vestibule and waited, In a moment the women came along. For an instant she hesitated before the house, and then, seeing the boy’s form in the shadow, turned and. hurried on - Well, that beats me,” exclaimed Dan, to himself. ‘‘ That woman either knows me,or else she’s got somethin yet. I'll have to and find out.” And, somewhat disturbed in mind, the Boy Spy gave the door-bell several sharp pulls, CHAPTER V. DAN TELLS AIS STORY. **Is Mr. Shepland in?’ asked Dan of the girl who answered bis summons. “I believe so,” was the reply. “‘ WiN you Sern step int "Who shall I say wishes to see ‘Dar Dart. Tell him it’s important, too,” The girl offered the young caller a chair and then burried up stairs, “Be has just retired, but will be down to see you i ten minutes,” ‘fer. minutes! Dan made up his mind it was on hand that I’m not up to eep my eyes and ears open - Sc a et i cA Ss sss “¢ Please tell him J must see him at dts | each la GaT AGE che ‘sna ba top. a Pe to he urged, inuch to the gir I's surprise, * Yes, sir, certainly!” T is time the girl was gone but a few seconds. ** Piguse follow me,” she urdered on her hasty return, Dan following, was ushered into a rooin on the second floor, Ina moment Mr. Shepland appeared wearing a dressing: ‘gown and slippers, ‘You have important news?’ he asked, anxiously. ‘* Yes, sir, and it does not admit of any varus either,” ‘returned Dan,“ They ure going to ro your store to-night,” ** Rob my store to-night? ulated the importer. “* Brooks and three of his partners.” ** Are you sure?” ‘* Positive! The robbery is to take place at one o'olock,” And sitting down /Dan gave a hasty but accu- rate account of what had transpired during the past few hours. Mr. Shepland listened intently. ‘You have indeed done well!” asseverated the in.:porter when Dan had finished, ‘Of course we will take steps to frustrate their plans without delay. Have you any idea who the elderly man is?” ** No, sir, bis name was not mentioned,” Well, we'll soon fin’! out all about him—and about the rest of the gung, teo. Excuse me five minutes till | burry into my clotbes,” Mr. Shepland disappeared into the next room, For « stout man be was astonishingly spry, and it was not long before he reappeared fully dressed. ‘ As he entered, so did a little girl from another oor. ““Why, Luey!l” exclaimed the importer, in surprise, ‘‘T though Jenny had put you to bed an bour ago!” **T was .oing, but heard you bere and wanted to kiss you gool-nigbt again,” returned the little miss, brightly, ‘On! [ didn’t know some one’ else was here!” she exclaimed, on catching sight of Dan, ue smiled, The little girl’s manner pleased | They—who?” ejac- cs i thought it was Sam,” explained the little girl. ‘‘Sam is papa’s footman, you know,” ‘**TIs he?” was all Dan could find tosay, He was a homeless boy, so had never had much to do with girls. ** Well, give me the kisg, Lucy,” broke in Mr. Shepland, somewhat hastily, ‘‘ Papa has got to go out for awhile, and he expects his Slittle girlto be safe in bed very soon.” ** Yea, papa. Good-night.” The little miss gave him a kiss upon each cheek, and then a hearty one on the mouth. Good- -night!” she said, pleasantly, to Dan, and an instant Jater was gone, ‘*God bless her, little motherless angel that’ sha is!” exclaimed Mr, Shepland, fervidly. Littls did he dream of the terrible things that were in store for his beautiful daughter! ‘* We will take the Elevated train down-town at ouce,” continued the importer to Dan. ‘* As you say, thore is no time to lose.” The trains were not running as often as they had been earlier in the evening, and it took them A y half an hour to go where Mr, Shepland esired It wasa police station, They found a lieuten- ant an l a sergeant in charge, Mr, Shepland knew the liautenant, and taking him aside, told the officer his story. ‘*And now what is best to be done?” asked Mr, Shepland, when be bad finished, ‘* We'll arrange to bag them at once,” replied the officer, promptly. * Just my idea.” “Ts any one now in the building?” “No, The janitor goes home at seven or ney o’elock.” . FB have a key, I suppose?” = Then Tm getia couple of men and we'll go down at once, Just wait till l put on a plain coxt, so as not to attract attention.” Dan was excited over the pone but he did not dread what was to follow. In fact, be rather liked the idea of having a lively time, and, as it might be, to show his metal, The de- tective fever was on him! They were soon on the way. The lieutenant and bis two men followed close behind the im- porter and his little investigator. The night was dark; but few stars were shin- ing, and the thin crescent of the new moon had long since gone down. In Maigen lane all was dark and deserted, ereny Met, Wee POY SRM erer es Dan, the Boy Spy- Detective. _ n ‘There is no one in sight,” said the « flicer. ** Let us get indoors as quickly as possible.” Insice but a single gas-jet was burning, and this gave a yellow, flickering liz bt. Tue establishment in this semi-darkness looked vast and gloomy, the many instruments stand- ing and hanging like ghosts in grotesque atti- tudes, “Half an hour yet,” remarked Mr. Shey land, as be consulted his watch. ‘‘ Wist it was over.” ‘‘ Let's improve the time by arranging a plaa of capture,” suggested Dan, ‘* A good idea,” replied the officer. “ Let us first find a convenient hiding- place near thedoor where the entrance 1s to be made.” *“ This way, then,” ordered Mr. Shepland. And at once ke led the way t)a large closet at tne rear of the store, “That will do for myself and Jones, here,” said the lieutenant, after he had « xamined the closet. ‘* Now for Wilkens an. you two—th..f is, if you want to take a hand in,’ “T do,” replied Dan, without hesitation, oie | wouldn't have come along, if I didn’t.’ The officer smiled. 5 Piha all accounts you're a plucky chap,” he said “Ty certainly wish to do all I can to catch the scoundrels,” put in Mr. Shepland, earnestly. ‘‘ There is anotber closet on toe other side,” he continued. ‘‘ We use it as we do this—for brok- en instruments.” “‘ That’s a good place for all three of you.” “ But one of us ought to be out in the alley,” said Dan. ‘‘ They are coming with a borse and wagon, you know, and we want to secure that, The officer was doubtful. It was a good suggestion, but as it «ame from # boy he did not like to admit it.” “* Just tbe thing!” cried Mr, Sbepland, ‘‘ Just o ahead, Dan; you've taken care of vourseif so ar, and i guess you'll be all rig} t. ‘Only don't let them see you, of the game will be up. “Never fear, I'll let them enter, and I won't do anything till I hear you doing something in- side, Have \cu a key to the back doo: ?” “Ves.” lll open it for you,” replied Mr, Sbepland. jn a moment Dan found himself in the elley alone. The runving out into Liberty street. For an instant after the door closed behind him Dan stood silent in the shadow of the d«or- wa Not a soul was in sight; not a sound broke the stillness of the night. @ ‘‘It’s tiecaim before the storm,” he said to himself. ‘t Never mind, I’m in for it, and Til fight as bard as avy man of them,’ Near by was sae doorway and beside it several empty packing-cases, * Just the thing to hide in” was the found- ling’s thougbt. In a mument be was inside of ene of the cases, “Snug as a bug in a rug,” be solilogn ged, “Heigh-ho! Thisis city life for fair! bav'y’t been here aday, and now fixing to be!p the grat New York po ice do their duty! Biz bueress for a poor blacksmith’s pick-me-up hke me, I cau'tsee— Hello, here they come!” A noise at the end cf the alley bad attracted his attention, Listening intently be caught the «114 .f wagon-wheels, ‘*Wonder they wouldn’t be afraid of the policeman on this beat,” thougbt Dan, ‘‘ But, may'e he's ip with them. Come to think of it the lieutenant didn’t say anything about the pare on duty here. Perhaps he wants to flad out?” Which was the exact truth, A second Jater a wagon containing the four men drove up the dark alley. CHAPTER VI. aha A STRUGGLE IN THE DARK. bing driver of the wagon was the elderiy ae "Whoa !” he exclaimed, softly, and the vebicle sto tes jumped to the pavement, and his three com ons did the same. ot too loud,” warned one of the men. when ~ recognized as Brooks bimee f. ‘Some one may hear you.” “* There’s no one around.” ‘You can’t tell. There may be a trarop around somewhere.” “Let Baxter take a look around and make lace was long, narrow and ‘dirty, , ee LE ioe
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Pluc nahn NS cere ne Dan shrunk back. He held a heavy billet of wood in his hand, ready for use, if it became necessary. ‘-Ob, pshaw!” protested Baxter. “ It’s all right. What’s the use of losing more time? Hurry up and get through before daylight.” **That’s the talk,” put in the fourth man, “Nothing like making the most of your time.” Tous addressed, the leader said no more. From the bottom of the wagon he produced a dark lancern and lit it. A few seconds of earnest conversation follow- ed. Then Carter Brooks opened the store door, and allowed the lantern’s rays to flash in- side, Presently the elderly man entered, One after another the others followed, closing the door behind them. The secreted boy breathed freer, Rising from his cramped position, he made his way to the horse’s side, A strap lay in the bottom of the wagon, and with this he tied the horse fast to the iron yrat- ing of the window close at hand. e had scarcely finished when he heard a noise from within, There were several exclamations, the scuffling of many feet, and then the report of a pistol. The sound of the shot had scarcely died away when the elderly robber sprung through the ' open doorway, and leaped upon the wagon. The resolu:e lad made a dive for the man, and caught him by the coat. “Let go,or Tl put a bullet through you!” | hissed the robber. “Not much, I won’t!” replied Dan, deter- minedly. Seizing the whip, the man hit the horse say- agely over the back, The frightened animal sprung forward, but only to come to a sudden halt, “Trapped!” exclaimed? the robber, bitterly, “and by a boy, too! Take that!” He aimed a terrific blow with the whip-butt at Dan’s bead. Had it struck, the blow would probably have killed the boy, but he was not to be thus caught, for he do!ged the stroke, and before the villain could recover, he dealt him a blow on the shoulder that knocked him clean off the wagon, But, expert scoundrel that ho was, as he went * down, the man whipped out his hip-revolver and pulled trigger. Tiere: was a flash, a report, and Dan felt a tingling sensation in the fleshy part of his arm . ‘that bad given the blow, “Shot!” he cried, but that was all, for with renewed purpose to have his man, be brought ay re down with all force on the crook’s ad. . The blow was well given, and did good work, for the burglar feli back, senseless, with hardly -agroan, . By this timea light shone out through the open , doorway and tbe lieutenant stepped out, . He took in the situation at a glance, and by - te time the fellow bad recovered be was hand- io ed, * You’re shot?” asked Mr. Shepland, ashe now also appeared “Just a flesh-wound, I guess,” replied Dan, somewhat faintly. ‘‘Did you capture the others?” ‘*Every one,” replied the lieutenant, .. “ Your wound shall have the best of care at once,” sail Mr. Shepland. ‘‘ Let’s go inside and ,. Gee who this fellow 1s,” he continued, anxiously. “It isn’t necessary,” put in the prisoner, sul- lenly. ‘‘ You ought to know me, Sbepland,” . Theimporter step back in surprise. “* Nicholas Starfield!” be i. “T fancied it at a be you, but still I could not believe it bie without crimes?” ; Tbe man addressed as Starfield shrugged his shoulders. f , ** We are enemies to the aven’t you done me injury enough adding burglary to your worse end,” he said, vicious- ; { ’ ‘*- You are a monster!” responded Mr, Shep- | land, indignantly. ** No, only a thwarted man, robbed of-all he held most dear, and whoin revenge engages in | war to toe knife with the man who stole from him the woman who should have been his wife.” | Starfield turned to the lieutenent. ** Thanks to this cursed boy I’m in your hands, But I wan't squeal. Which way?” ‘* We will 41) go inside,” was the brief reply. In the store the light had been turned on full, All the other men, including Carter Brooks, had been overcome and handcuffed. Brooks started back upon seeing Dan. ‘Where did you come from?” he cried, and then, suddenly: “Ob, lseeitall! Yon are nothing but a de- tective—you are no more a country-boy than I a Dan smiled; Brooks’s words were quite a com- pliment. ‘* Hoe was certainly too smart for you, Brooks,” put im Mr. Shepland, grimly. The clerk winced. ‘What are you going to do with me?” he asked, cringingly. ‘‘Let you fare as the rest of your miserable gang!’ returned the importer, ‘ First thing in the morning we will examine your room at your boarding-house and see what we can find there.” : Meanwhile the lieutenant and bis men were getting ready to march the prisoners to the station-house, : ‘** You will make the charge in the morning oanter them?” he said to Mr, Sbhepland. ‘ ye: “Then we'll go. It’s getting Jate—or early.” ‘Very well; [ll be on hand in the morning.” na moment they were outside in the alley. The heutenant made the prisoners get into the wagon, and then, climbing up with his men, the party drove cff, Mr. Shepland locked up his store again, when they were gone, ‘“Now we'll go around to a drug-store and have your arm attended to,” he suid to Dan, who was now very pale. For some time he had felt the warm blood running down bis arm, and as he held up his hand it dripped from his fingers! ‘Oh, 'm all right,” he asserted, bravely. “ You mustn't worry about me; I can—” He did not finish. A flickering light danced before his eyes, and then he pitched forward into Mr. Sbhepland’s arms, The Boy Spy-Detectfve had fainted. CHAPTER VII. | THE STOLEN CHILD. * HELLO! this will never do!” _It was Mr, Shepland who uttered the exclama- ion. « Dan lay in his arms like a dead man. Only a block away, on Broadway, was a drug-store. : Half carrying and half dragging his charge, the importer soon reached the place, but only to find it closed. He rung the night-bell several times. ‘Who's there?’ came through the speaking- ube, “‘Here’sa manhurt. Come quickly. Ill pay you well,” ‘Who are you?” . Tbe importer mentioned his name, ‘Ob, all right, Mr. Shepland; be there in a second,” , Ina moment the door wes unlocked, and the importer entered with his burden, he case was quickly explained, and Dan was stripped bare to the shoulders, ‘** Only a flesh wonnd, but dangerously close,” was the druggist’s opinion, ‘‘ Fix him up well as you can to prevent fur- ther loss of blood.” ; : “*T will.” While the druggist was applying restoratives and bandages, he directed Mr. Shepland to ring the telephone and call up a surgeon who lived near. This was done, and by the time Dan came to, the surgeon was on hand, and the arm was soon in proper form, , ter ** A week of quietness will fix you up,” he an- nounced, when his task was done. ** A week!” exclaimed Dan, ‘1 can’t afford to stay idle so long,” fi ‘You can stay idle as long as you please,” putin Mr, Shepland, ‘‘ You are poing, home with me, and shall net do a stroke of work until yar ore Revs ectly well.” f Para Pree xe, ut—” beg Dan. j ‘*No buts about it] You were injured in my : Elevated train ou thelr way to the importer’s lace, : 16 was like a dream to Dan, and even more s0 when, a little later, he was shown invo an ele- gant bed-chamber and allowed to pass the night on the most luxurious of couches, ‘1m certainly in luck,” said Dan to himself ashe finished his regular nightly prayer. “t won't mind getting shot at all if I’m to be treated this way every time such a thing hap- pens.” Nevertheless, in the morning he found bis shoulder quite stiff, and, consequently, he did not finish dressing till some time after the | breakfast-bell rung. f Going below, he found Mr, Shepland and little Lucy just sitting down. “1 was going to have you called but thought you might still be sleeping,” said the gentleman. ** How is your shoulder?” ‘* Doing nicely,” he replied. He did full justice to the elegant meal that was served, During the eating he became quite well ac- quainted with little Lucy, that precocious miss baving taken a decided fancy to him, " What am I to do to-day, sirf” asked Dan, as they arose from the table. ‘© Make yourselZ comfortable,” was the reply. ‘¢- You had. better stay at home here and read or do something else,” “ec **T'd like to go along.” can stand it?” tougher than I look,” as- You are going to the Police Headquarters?” Yes,” **Do you think you ‘“*T guess so. I’m sured Dan, In a few moments they were on the way down- town. , ** You seem to know this man Starfield,” ob- served the boy, as they rode along. ; ‘\T do—to my sorrow. He has done me much injury—though I never willingly harmed the man,” replied Mr, Sbepland, contracting his. brows, . “‘ Perhaps some day I will tell you the whole story,” it was not a great wkile before they reached the police station. There ws a commotion going on. unusval bad happened, * Wonder whav’s tbe matter?” Dan asked. In the hall they met the captain of police, pale and excited, ‘* What's up?” demanded Mr, Shepland. ‘* A man who was arrested last night has escaped,” ‘What wes his name?” | “Starfield.” The issporter and his aid both uttered a cry... ‘Starfield, the one I was most anxious to have secured!” groaned Mr, Shepland. ‘! How did it happen?” ““Can’t make out. Howas put ina cell by himeelf, and, ten minutes ago, the keeper found the door open and the prisoner gone.” ) * Are the rest here?” **Oh, yes, only Starfield is missing.” - Mr, Shepland sat down, overcome. ‘*T would, rather have had all! three others escepe than that man,” he said to Dan. ‘* Never mind; maybe theyll soon find him,” was the Spy-Detective’s encouraging reply. Something ‘““We have a number of detectives already searching for him,” put in the officer, ~ But Mr. Soepland shook his bead. ‘*T doubt if you catch sight of him ” he said, “That man is the sliest scoundrel in New Yi rk, I suppose you huye postponed the examination for the present?” ** Yes, sir.” “Then, Dan, we'll go down to the store—that is, if your arm isn’t hurting you, “Its only a which was the truth. At the store the two held a long conference, the result of which was the sending of an officer of the police and one of the clerks with Dan over’ to Mrs. Smart’s board ing-house, woman was Of course the ge rooks’s true character was mad ished when B e to the police station to t htful en 8 dag A 1 se Dan, but bit stiff, sir,” replied the lad, — his greatly aston-—
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of my wife, let his case drop, an ; ped the perspirati — Dan had paid her a whole week’s board, he thought she bad not much reason to complain, Dan packed his valise quickly after the officer | and the clerk had gone, und then, knowing not what else to do, he returned to Maiden lane. He met his employer just coming from the | ; ‘end of ture weeks sent the money as re- ‘Tam too unstrung to do business to-day,” | store, explained the importer. ‘ So I’m going home, Come, you had better go along. You need est.” . “Pll go along,” replied Dan. ‘‘ But I’m too wide-awake to go to sleep.” Io a little while they reached Eizhty-third street and asceuded the steps or the mansion, As they opened the door, one of the women servants cume running toward them, lier hair flying and her face streamfag with tears. “Ob, Mr. Shepland! what shull we do?” she sovbed. ‘* Lucy has be n missing tor tiree hours, and we can’t find her any where! { think she bas been stolen away.” *Startield’s work!” muttered Dan, under bis breath, CHAPTER VIII. MR. SHEPLANDS STORY, LittuE Lucy stolen! dtu would be difficult to describe the conster- ot tnat followed this disagreeable announce- ment, ‘** You are sure?” gasped Mr, Shepland, clutch- ing the woman’s shoulder, * Yes, sir; we've all hunted high and low, but we can’t fiaa her,” ** Has she gone to any of her friends?” ‘‘ We've inquired at every house. Boesides, she'd leav» word, I’m sure,” replied the woman. “So she would. But something must be doue,” returned the importer, *‘ Hunt again, J will send a call for belp,” Tae womun departed, and Mr, Shepland s-nt & call through tae telephone to the nearest police station. ** Let me take a hand in the search,’ said Dan, “T know your d.ugater.” * Do as you thiak best.” Tho police soon came, and Dun went out with thern. Af nine o'clock in the evening, tired and dis- couraged, he returned to the mansion, He found Mr, Shepiaud walking up and down nervously io bis library. | ‘+ Well?” ** No clew, sir,” replied Dan, ‘* Are you sure?” ** Positive, sir.” f ‘ Mr, Sbepland vitered a groan, A ‘* There nust be some clew!” he eried. ‘*My little gir) could not have be n spirited away.” *' I believe it’s Sta. teld’s work,” declured Dan, boldly. es ¢ Mr, Shepland grasped his band, * You are right!” he ejaculated, ‘It-is only suc a person would seek to injuro me in this Wwuy. ® has done the same thing betore,” Daw started. oF i ya stulen your little girl?” ne my little girl, but my little boy that ** You have a son? ‘““He is dead now,” Mr, Shepiand turned away for an instant to wipe bis eyes. ‘‘1’i) tell you the story m # few words,” ~ Toe importer was silent for a moment, and then bezan: “ Sixteen years eno Starfield and I were part- ners in business, Ho \was fast in many ways, but understood his work and tended to it. ‘*We both loved the same woman, She pre- ferred me, and we married. “ Starfield immediately broke up our busivess, 4 left, taking all the available funds with mn. ; “I did not follow him up, but by the advice Started in business for myself, and was very successful, ‘*A year later a beautilul boy was born to us. We were very happy, and fairly worshiped the little one. ’ * A month yee Then one day came the t pw doay A intelligence that the baby had been _80me Manner gained entrance tothe house with- from the nurse by Starfield, who had in out being noticed.” Mr. Svepland paused for a moment, and mop- trom his brow, n hstened with deep interest. Was he not a toundliog, perhaps stolen from bomet ** The loss of the boy wasa great blow, All _ the efforts of the police to find the little one were _ fruitless, tless, : \ “In a few days I received a letter from Star- 5 i ! | | ; field demanding ten thousand dollarsasa rao- som for my child, I did not know wnat to do, I was not rich then, and to pay sucn a sum would have ruined me, _ “Nevertheiess, | set to work.to raise the sum. I mortgagei all I possessed heavily, and at the quired,” ; ** And you got back vour sn?” asked Dan, ‘*Not until & month Juter, wnen the detectives got on the track cf Srartield and his mother, wbo wus caking care of the infant--if such hendling 8? sne gave it can be called care.” ‘* Then it had not been well treated?” “Well treated? All but that! i+ was half- starved, aud so weak from rough usage that it never recovered, but died severa! weeks later,” ‘* it was too bad,” was all Dan could find to y. ‘* It was—both for my wife and myself. Had the boy lived, he would bave been about your age. ‘* Bui a good deal better chap than I am,” ro- plied the lad, modestly. “T saoull not ask to have him better,” re- turned the importer. . ‘*On, if only we could find Lucy!” he added, with a sigh. | Dan sat silent for a moment. “After what you have told me, I’m sure it’s Starfi-ld’s work, and no one else’s,” he said, ‘““Have you any idea where the man has been staying all these years?”. “To tae city, 1 suppose. that his mother had moved to Kenasaw. haps be has been living with ber.” ‘* Where is Kenasaw?” Mr. Sbepland described its location on the shore of Lake Michigan, “Tell you woat I'l do,” said.Dan, “I'll go to Kenasaw, if you wish, and find out all I cana.” ** A good ilea,” cried Mr. Shepvland, catching at tue suggestion. ‘ Pil pay your fare,” “Then Ura off in the morning.” ‘“* But your arm—-” ** Must take care of itself.” * You are plucky and no mistake,” returned Mr. Shepland, 4 Gory to his safe, he drew ont @ roll of bills, “Here are two hundred doilars,”? he said, handing the money over. ‘‘ Don’t be afraid. to use it, If you get any »nformation, telegraph atonce, And let me say taut I have a presenti- ment that you are on tne rigiit track.” “So have J,” replied Dan, Good-night. I’m off first thing in the morning,” Dan lef the hbrary and went up-stairs, to get ready for his journey, His preparations were very simple. His vahise from Mes. Sunart’s still remained packed. Io the morning he was down bright and early.. He took breakfast alone, and at half-past eight was on bis way to the Grand Central Depot, He spent a good hour reading an account of But stop! I heard Per- the abdaction in one of the morning papers, and then spent the remainder of toe day in speculating upon his strange and hasty mission. He hardly noticed the beauty of the country through which they were passing, and ‘at ten o'clock was willing enough to retire to his bed in the sleeper, ; It was nearly noon of the next day when he arrived at his destination, : Hunary and cramped in limbs, ke alighted hae the car and inquired his way \to a good otel, He wasdirected to the Hagia House. In a quarter of an hour he had reached tae place and taken a room, “L'll make myself at home,” he arranged. ‘“‘and then keep my eyes and ears open. It seems like a wild-goose chase, but there’s noth- ing else to be done.” i His room was No, 48, and after paying for one day in advance, a porter conducted him tu the apartment. } ; “Pll take a wa-h ane then have some dinner,” thought Dan, ‘‘ Goodness knows I’m buagry enough.” As be set down his valise a bit of paper upon the floor attracted his attention. Moved + ya natural curiosity, Dan picked it up and read it This was all it contained : “pr pare to few dare set Nicronas §ta”’ Dan was astonished beyund measure, In an instant it flashed through his mind that poset mip had bat recently occupied that same mu. ‘ / : ana Oae _ See Maras | If this was so, he was indeed on the right | trick, and migbt hope to find little Lucy in a | short while, perbaps that very day. | Ha searcbed the floor eagerly for more of the | tora sheet, ; Hs found nothing but the corner of an enve- | lope having a broad ink mark across its face, The first piece had lain near the window, which wes open, and this led Dan to the suppo- position that toe other bits had been thrown out. The window opened upon a narrow alleyway, the bottom Uf which was filled with rubbish, Taking an old letter from his pocket, he drop- ped it out, : Then he went below, and asked the dapper clerk how he could get to the alley to find the letter, and was shown to a back door that led to the place. Dan was not long in getting there. He spent fally a quarter of an hour among the rubbish, and returned to his room with some twenty bits of paper in his possession. lt was no easy matter to fit the pieces to- gether. But is was done, and then Dan found that ne had a letter and an addressed envelope complete. Tue letter ran as follows: “Dear Motner:—Tha papers may nave mein as arr--ted, butlama free man. Lam again onthe make. Don’t answer this, but prepare to receive me and @ young stranger in a few days—maybe s oner, NicnoLas STARFIELD.”’ The envelope was directed: © **Mrs AGATHA STARFI&LD, 921 Lake View Terrace, Kenas—” At the end of the s a heavy mark was made, and tis rau back 1brough toe name, ‘* But he changed bis mind about sending the letter at ine last minute,” said the Boy Spy, to himself, : The note and envelope gave Dan the know!l- edge of severai important facts: Starfield was im the city or its vicinity. He had little Lucy with bim, and Mrs, Star- field still lived in Kenasaw. He did not know where Lake View Terrace was located, and determined to find cut at once, ’ Taking a hasty wash and brushing up, he went below. Dinner was ready, and he sauntered into the dining-room, : At one of the tables sat an old man, and tak- ing a seat opposite, Dan soon put himseir upon easy terms with the elderly gentleman, “* Acquainted in the town?” asked the Boy Spy, presently. ‘‘ Weil, rather,” was the hearty reply. ‘‘ Lived here twenty years. Onaly moved to Chicago last ear,’ “i ‘Then perhaps you can tell me where Lake View Terrace is located?’ ‘* It’s the street that runs along lake—vhe one next to this,” ** And where do the numbers begin?” ** Pwo biocks below, Where do. you want to o?” ** Some where’s near 900.” pb “Nine hundred? Tbat’s about» mile north of here. It’s about the end cf the road,” replied the old man. ; “Thank you,” said Dan, He resolved to pay Lake View Terrace a visit in the evening, thinking darkness would best suit the purpose he had in mind. CHAPTER IX. AN IMPORTANT DISCOVERY, AT eight o'clock Dan left the hotel. 1t was quite dark, and the streets were almost deseried, - ‘Thanks to the information be hed received, ho had no difficulty in finding the lake-shore, and was soon walking on the broad, sandy road tha’ was known as the Terrace, : He walked fully half a raile, The houses were further apart, and it was decidedly lonely now. ’ Presently be met a young fisherman and asked him if he knew Mrs. Starfield. a DRE RE ‘* Who, the Widow Starfield?” asked the young “I do—everybody does,” ; ‘* Where does she liye?” ‘*In the fifth house below. But you ain’t go- ing to her place to-night, be you?” asked the fish- erman, 4 : : i ” ve {cues bai " returned Dan. “Why?” | “ There are ghosts around her place at night.” 2 i OF ec wart hy Sots te -
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oe a —— Plucky Dan, the Boy Spy- etective. —_— The Boy Spy laughed, ** 1m not afreid of them,” he said. ** You don’t believe me, but it’s a fact.” ‘ ee the young fisherman shouk his head warn- ingly. ** Who says so?” ‘‘ Every one, I’ve seen’em with my own eyes, Tali ghosts in white with torches in their bands ” ‘* [reckon they won’t hurt me,” replied Dan. ** Better keep away, sir; it’s dangerous fooling around there,’ And with this warning the young fisherman hurried off, ‘*So that is the way the Starfields menaze to remain undisturbed,” thought Dan, ‘* Well, it’s all right, but it shall not stop me from paying the widow a visit.” Dan soon reached the fifth house. It was a small one-and-a-balf-story cottage, surrounded by a mass of shrunbery. A light was burning in the kitchen, and, creeping up to the window, Dan peered in, The apartment was empty. “That’s queer,” he thought. ‘‘ Wonder if there is nobody at home!” A moment later the door leading to the attic opeved, and a woman bearing #2 candle in her band entered. Dan was spellbound, It wag the same woman who had questioned him in tae Elevated train and had afterward followed bim to Mr. Shepland’s mansion! **Can tais be Mrs, Starfield?” béthought. ‘If it is, then she is in Jeague with her son and Car- ter Brooks. But what was her purpose in following me? and why didn’t she stop the attempt at robbery when she saw I[ wason the track of it?” Blowing out the candle, the woman placed it Pr tbe mantel-piece and sat down beside the table. As she did so Dan heard a noise in the direc- tion of the lake, An instant after a man came walking up from the beech, , Instinctively Dan crouched behind a clump of bushes, - Tho man had reached the shore in a rowboat. He tied the painter of the craft fast tu a stake an‘ ten approached the house, It was hard to distinguish the individual’s face. But Dan recognized the tall form of Nicholas Starfield! Starfield approached the kitchen anil knocked loudly on the door. 7 It was quickly opened, and the man entered. Turning to the side window, which was cupen, for the night was warm, Dan saw Starfield drop heavily into an arm-chair. ** Seems to be tired,” thought Dan. ‘* Wonder where he has been?” He could not catch the first words that were spoken, but presently, by listening intently, he caught the woman’s words, ** And you say that everything is fixed,” she was saying. ‘*Yes,” replied Starfield. ‘‘ You know we huven’t used the lace for fifteen years, and I can tell you it was in a miserable condition.” ‘* Had it been used?” ‘*Guess not. I don’t believe any one ever set foot cn the island, or, if they «iid, they never went far from the shore. I found the path choked with weeds, and could scarcely find the house.” ‘* Was it in good condition?” asked the wo- man, anxiously. ‘* Almost a wreck. Half the roof was gone. But it’s all right now, and I’m glad of it. We can go there, and no one will know where we ‘* And I suppose you expect me to live there for wretched days together,” put in the woman, in bitter tones. ** Nonsense, mother! When Fred Shepland comes down with the rocks we'll live like princes,” replied Starfield, confidently. ‘* Suppose he doesn’t ay” “No fear of that, He’s had too dear an ex- perience to refuse. He knows that to me re- venge is almost as sweet as money.” ‘* Not quite, Nicholas,” ‘* No, not quite—money lasts longer.” ** How much have you asked of him?” “Twenty thousand dollars,” ** Ag much as that?” ‘Yes? Why not? He c:n afford to pay it well enough.” ** And if he doesn’t?” - ** Then let him beware! I’m not to be trifled with, I swear it.” And Starfield brought his hand down upon - the table with great energy. Of course Dan was greatly interested. But what had become of little Lucy? 1t was a puzzling question. But it was soon answered. ‘* What have you done with the young one?” preséntly asker! Starficld of his mother. Dan held his breath, so eager was he to catch the answer. ‘*She is upstairs,” replied Mrs, Starfield, fs I've had an awful time with her since you eft.’ Dan almost jumped up in his excitement, Lictle Lucy was in the house! , ** Jl) rescue ber or dis in the attempt,” he muttered to himself, and shut bis teeth bard, He regretted that he bad provided himself with no weapon. ““A pistol might prove mighty handy,” he said to himself, ‘‘Butas it is, l’ll have to do the best | can witheut it ” Yet be realized that Starfield was a strong man, and if brought to buy might prove a dan- gerous antagonist. ** Well,” saiu Starfield, “‘ we might as well be moving. I'm tired, and I’m sure I'll get no rest till we are safe on the island. Have you got all the bundles ready ?” : ‘““Yes, But it seems a pity to disturb the child, now she is asleep,” replied the woman. ‘*Oh, pshaw! It’s no use getting squeamish, Your fuint-heartedness cost us enough years ago. ** Nicholas, I can’t belp having some feeling.” ‘It’s all rot. What feeling did Fred Sbep- land and his cursed wife bave for me, I’d like to know?” ‘* Yes, but, Nicholas—” ‘To buts. If he had his way, I'd been in the jail this very night!” ‘And you shall be if Jcan accomplish it,” added Dan, under his breath. **Come, hurry up,” continued Starfield to his mother. ‘‘Tne boat is all ready down to the beach, and the sooner the job is over, the bet- ter. ** But it’s so fearfully dark,” returned Mrs, Starfield, shuddering. ~ ‘*Don’t matter. Iknow every foot of the way. Where are the bundles?” ** Tn the corner.” ‘*I'll take them down with me. Bring the young one as soon as you can, If she screams, throw a shawl over her head.” And, with this parting advice, Nicholas Star- field left the house. CHAPTER X. ON THE WATER, To say that Dan was surprised and delighted at tbe success of bis venture thus far would be putting the thing mildly. Fortune had directed him rightly from the start. In less than thirty-six hours he had not only found Starfield, but had also discovered the whereabouts of little Lucy. The prospects were exciting, but Dan man- aged to keep cool, and intently watched Star- field as the man made his way to the beach. The abductur of the little girl was evidently going to some island in the lake, Dan knew there were many islands, and he could not help but wonder which was to be Starfield's destination. . “If I knew, 1 would go and get the police to follow them at once,” he said, to himself. ‘‘ But as it is, l’ll have to keep shady and see if I can find cut,” ; He saw Starfield proceed to the water’s edge and get into arow-boat, An instant later the cottage-door opened and Mrs, Starfield came out, She was dragging little Lucy by the hand. The child was crying bitterly and appealing piteously to be seut back to her papa. Dan’s blood boiled at the sight, He felt like rushing forth from his hiding- place and snutching little Lucy from her tor- mentors by force. But he realized the folly of this. Starfield would attack him at once, and even if Dancould resist him, the abductor and would-be robber would certainly escape, ‘* Pll bide my time, and bag both him and his mother,” was Dan’s thought. : He followed to the boat. Sterfield was ready for his mother and ber ohare Telling little Lucy to ‘‘ hush up or he’d know the reason why,” the man lifted her into the nes and sat her on the sti rn seat. . rs, Starfield followed, and then her son shoved off and - n to row out into the lake, r > i= ah * . : oi er en AVY ee ee mh 3 nes OT nei FA . = —- rapidly would be out of sight, What was to lw done? Running up the beach, the Boy Spy- Detective soon came to another craft, pulled up high and | dry and tied to a stake by a thin rope. To his joy, the oars were lying across the seats, ‘** Here's luck!” he cried, ‘‘ Necessity knows | no law, so here goes,” Taking out his knife, he severed the rope. Then be shoved the boat into the water and jumped aboard, “ T sup’ the owner will think his boat has been stolen, but I can’t help it, Ill hunt him ,uP some other time, and explain mat- ters, Thus thinking, D..n sat down to the oars, In his excitement he forgot all about his wounded shoulder, Starfield’s boat was barely visible, and he started manfully after it. The course was in a northwest direction. As he rowed along he noticed that two promi- nent lights in the city were directly in line with cach other, and he resolved to remember this so that he would not become bewildered should he attempt to turn back, : This straight course continued for nearly an our, Dan's arms—especially the wounded one—be- gan to ache, He began to have his doubts about being able to hold out much longer, But relief soon came, An island loomed up in the darkness directly de angeles Sovtaeitie 4 a ta r © quite large, and was cov- ered wns heavy growth of trees and bushes, Dan saw the boat ahead shoot into a little cove, Turning aside he sent bis own craft into the cover of the bushes near by. Ina moment he saw Starfield jump out and draw up his boat well out of the water, ‘*Now give me the young one,” Dan heard him say. Mrs. Starfield banded over little Lucy, who was still sobbing. The nian led the way ge theshore, — Lighting a lantern she had brought the mo- ther followed close behind. : As soon as the two were gone, Dan made his way to where the other boat lay. aking the oars out of her he hid them in the bushes, ‘That will prevent them from leaving in a hurry,” he thought, In a moment he was on the trail. He was ex- tremely cautious in his movements, and walked with the stealthiness of a cat. The course was an irregular one, over rocks and through dense undergrowth. Presently they struck a sort of path, and then it became easier for Dan to follow the li.tle tty. Pethe by-path had evidently been in disuse for a number of years. Large sticks and stones ob- structed the way. Over these Mrs. Starfield stumbled and fell. The lantern struck a rock, and the glass was completely shattered. Dan heard the woman utter an exclamation, heard little Lucy scream and the man say : ‘*Tt’s a good thing we’re almost there. ]t was bad enough walking with the lantern, but in the dark it’s ten times worse,” “T hav’n’t trod this ao for fifteen years, and it’s all strange to.1me,” réplied Mrs, Starfield, as she picked herself up. “Tsay it was a neat trick we played on Fred Shepland when we—” began Starfielu as be con- tinued on his way. ** Hust!” broke in his mother hastily. ‘ Re- member the little girlis here. Do you think he ever found it out?” “ ** Nicholas, that deeu will out some day.” ‘*Nonsense! Not unless you tell it.” As Starfield uttered the last words he stepped into a small clearing. In the buck stood a small cottage, moss-cover- ed and dilapidated. A door on the side afforded the only entrance, and pushing it open Starfield and his mother, with little Lucy, eutered, “So this is the place they nre g.ing to stay for the present,” Dan said to himse}f +s the door closed. ‘Well, I’m glad J found it cut, It’s a good hiding-place, sure enough, but I guess they won't think so when I bring the police down on em, P Dan made his way rapidly back to the shore, ©
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-det rmined to reach the Kenasaw Police Station as soon as possible. Plucky D ** Dan Dart.” ‘Dart? Dart? Are you the Dart who helped But when Le approached the water’s edge Dan | capture that Starfield and his gang who were uttered a cry of alarm, And well he might, for both rowboats had disappeared ! CHAPTER XI. DAN INFORMS THE POLICE. In vain Dan strained nis eyes mm search of his own craft or the one belonging to S.arfield, The little coves into which both boats had been beached were empty. ‘ That’s queer!” thought Dan, ‘‘ They were here less than a quarter of un hour ago.” The disappearance of the crafts was a sore anxiet Without one or the other, how was he to re- ‘turn to Kenasaw and inform the police? The distance was too far to swim. Besides, it wag dark, and with his wounded arm it would have been almost suicidul to un- dertake the task. ; ‘*Tt’s tough luck,” he muttered to himself, ** But it shall not stop me from getting back even if [ have to build a raft,” Dan was too plucky a boy to give way to de- spair. ‘+ There’s one consolation,” he declare! to him- self,‘ if 1 can’t ieave the island neither can Star- field. The only difference is they’ve got some- thing to eat and I baven’t.” Presently the trought struck Dan that per- haps the boats had only drifted from their moor- ings, and floated but a short distance away. This idea gave bim renewed hope, and he was not long in instituting a hasty search up and «down the shore, ‘* Eureka! there’s one of them!” he exclaimed. True enough, there was his own boat not over two hundred feet from where he ha‘ leit it! Dan was not long in getting aboard and shov- ing off. Starfield’s boat was still missing. ‘“*'m glad of it,” the lad declared to himself, ** Hope it drifted away altogether. If it has, they are prisoners already. Far away in the distance twinkled the many fights of the city, throwing long flashes uf fire . over the water. Remembering the two lights that had been his guide during the chase, Dan got them again in range and started on the return, It was slow work. Hisarm pained him con- siderably now, but yet he stuck to the oars. He was glad when the mainland was reached. He beached the boat at the exact spot from which he had taken it, and tied it fast as he had found it, ** Her owner will never know that she has ‘been used,” he said to himself, Half an hour’s rapid walking brought him to ‘the busy portion of the city. Stopping a policeman, he inquired the way to ‘the station It was but three blocks off, andin a few mo- ments Dan stoed in the main office, He found a sergeant and two men in charge, ‘“*Well, ycung man, what’s wanted?” asked the sergeant, Wood by name. ‘*] want two people arrested,” replied Dan, briefly. “ Who?” ** A man and a woman,” “What for?” ** Abduction.” The sergeant began to grow interested. ‘* Who are the people and who have they ab- ducted?” he asked, ‘*A man and his mother. They have ab- ducted little Lucy Shepland, of New York Ve OR he officer jumped up. J He had read about the case in the evening paper, and knew many of the particulars, “Are you sure you are not mistaken?” he questioned, closely. “* Positive, sir,” returned Dan. ‘ I know my man and I know the little girl,and I’ve seen them both,” ‘* Where do you come from?” ‘New York,” / vs a there?” ' oo ve anywhere, I’m following this case u for Mr, Shepland.” ‘ A » % ted young girl’s father?” eant stared at Dan. “‘ Hardly that, but just now I’m doing a de- tective’s work.” “‘ Well, I'll be blamed! What’s your name?” ae Moa + ran # trying to rob Shevland’s store?” “That’s me, And it’s this same Starfield who’s abducted Lucy Sheplani,” added Dan, And, sitting dowa, he related all the particu- lars of his story. ** You're lucky ard clever both,” said Ser- geant Wood, wheu Dan nud concluded. ‘ Do you think you can find the island in the dark?” ** Easily enough.” And Dan mentioned the lights that had been his guide, Sergeant Wood meditated a moment. ‘© We'l’ go over and capture them at once, [f we wai till morning they may escape us. Will you go along?” ‘*Certainly, You don’t suppose I want to go bunting, and then not be in at the death?” * Then we'llstart at once, Kerry?” One of the men, who had heen dozing ‘upon a bench, sprung up and rubbed his eyes. ‘** Did yez call me, sor?’ be asked. “4 Yes. I have work for you. We are to go out, ‘* Where to, sor?” “Pil tell you on the way. Robbins!” “Yes, sir,” replied the other policeman, oes ‘* Kerry and I are going out for a few hours, You take charge till return. If anything un- usual happens send for the captain.” ** { will, sir.” ‘** And don’t fall asleep.” ‘* No fear, sir.” The sergeant took down his hat from a peg and put it on. , ‘Take along two pairs of handcuffs,” he said, to Kerry, ** Yes sor,” “* And see that your pistol is all right.” “A foight, ch?” exclaimed Kerry. ‘ Well, I’m the bboy as is in for just that same!” The water was soon reached. Here a good-sized boat helonging to the police was procured, anu they were speedily on their way. Dan wondered why it was that the sergeant and bis man could row so well, but he afterward learned that to be skiliful at the ours wus part of their duty, ‘‘Now, where are the lights!” asked the ser- geant, presently. Dan pointed them out, ‘Keep them in a straight line and you can't mi<s the island,” he added, ‘“* How far is it do you suppose?” ‘* Nearly a mile,” “Then it’s Star Island, as i thought. Come, Kerry, give way.” A: they rowed along the sergeant gave his man an inkling of what to expect, “Och, the villain,” exclaimed the Irishman, referring to Staifieli, *‘To steal an innocent little fairy from her fayther! Just wait till I get me hends on him!” Twenty minutes si flived for the voyage. They made an exsy landing, and soon stood at the beginning of the path that led to the cot- * Better light up,” said the sergeant. ‘It’s as dark as pitch,” Kerry lit a dark-lantern and opened the slide, **{ will show you the way,” suid Dan. “I’ve only traveled it twice but I know it pretty nt Wood. break our Il. ‘*Hold the lantern up,” said ‘*We don’t want to stumble an necks,” “ Yes, sor,” replied Kerry. ‘* And when we reach the place be very quiet,” cautioned the sergeant, In ten minutes they had come to the end of the path, The cottage stood before them, ** Are you both ready?” asked Sergeant Wood, ** Yes,” was the quick reply, “Then follow me.” Sergeant Wood opened the door of the cottage and entered, CHAPTER XII, THE CAPTURE OF STARFIELD, THE interior of the cottage was totally dark. Dan and the others took but a few steps, and then oy a ens to listen. They beard the beavy breathing of some one lying in the coruer. “It must be Starfield,” whispered the Boy Spy-Detective, lowly. “Give usa little light,” said Sergeant Wood to Kerry, who had closed the lantern. in, the Boy Spy-Detective. 9 The policeman rea opened the slide, allow- ing a long streak of light to quiver upen the wall opposite. By tius illumination they beheld Starfield ly- ing upn a cot in the corner. Re was sleeping, with his face to the weil. One hand hung loosely over the edge of his couch, ; Steppiog cautiously forward, Dan raised bis head, and drew the abductor’s two hands t»- gether. Then he motioned to Kerry to bring the handcuffs. **Good!” whispered the sergeant. @ boro officer.” . And he beld the lantern while his man did as Dan directe:. Just as the job was finished, the sleeping man awoke with a start, e tried to move his hands, and findirg that impo sible, jumped to his feet in alarm. ‘What is the meaning of this?” he de- manded, ‘« Tt means that you are my prisoner,” replied Sergeant Wood, ‘* Your prisoner!” Starfield was bewildered. To be awakened from a sound sleep to such a thing as this was a complete surprise to ** You ara ‘* That’s what I said. Kerry, watch him.” ‘*But what have I done?’ '* Abducted little Lucy Shepland, for one thing.” replied Dan, stepping forward. ‘Who are you?” demanded the would-be rob- ber, boldly. But, as the light fell upon Dan’s face, he ut- tered a cry of mingled astonishment and alarm. * What—yo—you!” he faltered. : “Yes, Mr. Starfield, me,” returned the lad. ** Guess you didn't expect to see me again quite soon. so “You shall suffer for thix! It’s the second time you have dogged me!” exclaimed Starfield, venomously. ‘* Some, none of that!” put in the sergeant, sterulv. ‘‘Is your mother here?” a No.” ‘“* Yes, she is,” exclaimed Dan, ‘She is prob- ably in there,” And he pointed to the front room, the door of which was closed. Sergeant Wood tried the door. It was locked. ‘* Where is the key?” !:6 asked, *T don’t know,” was the surly renly. ‘Then we'll break down the door!” exclaimed Dan. ‘I’m sure his mother is in there, and the little girl, too.” And Dan made a move as if to carry out his threat. * Hold on!” exclaimed Starfield. ‘‘ No use of that. Maybelcan find the key if you'll give me time.” ‘Well, hurry up,” returned Sergeant Wood, impatiently. , ; Starfield began a slow search for the missing key. He looked in all odd corners, and stoppsd sev- eral times to scratch his head as if in per- plexity. His movements were so unaccountable that they set Dan to thinking. In an instant the solution to the mystery flashed over our bero’s mind. Starfield was trying to gain time so that his mother might have a chance to escape! ‘* Watch him!” he shouted, aud he made a bolt for the outer door. Once outside, he ran around to the front of the house. His surmise was correct. The window of the other room was wide open. A glance within made him almost certain that the apartment was empty. ‘Too late!” he ejaculated, in dismay. ‘ Oh, what a fool I was not to think of this sooner!” From the thicket beyond he heard the faint ery of a girlish voice, «Papa! help me, papal!” ‘¢ It’g Lucy’s voice!” he cried, And away he went in the directicn of the sound as fast as his legs could carry him. It was still as dark «s ever, Once Dan stumbled and fell, His clothing was torn, and his knee was cut and began to bleed. Still be plunged on, Sm the distance he could yet hear little Lucy’s cries. They were growing ‘fainter, but whether it was because she was ming exhausted or be- cause she was further off, he could not tell. [won't give up,” he exclaimed, setting bis
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jng. A t A ‘ ae Rt Fe 4 Pt f it *) : ae, Sale i oe Bway " BY ex a ee Be. hy ' : of . , * Pn . | aoe i ; , 10 naa ee a “— 7 —_ A pt ar Oe NAS on ae ee a et Oe EE el A CELT NR Nh ANE ES NE CN LE NEL CON Ae Plucky ' teeth bard. ‘I’ve made up my mind torestore | Suddenly he fancied he heard a nois3 in the her to Mr, Shepland, and I’m going to do it.” Gradually he felt that he was gaining upon Mrs. Shepland, and when he came to 2 little clearing he was overjoyed to see the woman, | , though: that rushed tarough bis mind. will be best | A | had never yriled before, Mrs. Starfield paid no rttention to his threats. with little Lucy in her arms, just ahead. ** Stop!” he called out. ‘Stop! it for you!” ‘¢ Guess she means to fight!” said Dan to him- self, ‘* Well, I'M handle ber just as gently as a distance. He listened intently. It was a faint shout. “ft is the sergeant or his man!” was the Aud drawing a deep breath, Dan yelled as he How eagerly he listened for an answer. But none came, Again Dan yelled, and then fora third time, woman like her deserves to be handled, but no | with all the strength of his lungs. more,” As be sped along his foot struck a stout stick, and stooping down he picked it up. Tt was about two feet long and quite heavy. ** It will be good to defend myself witi if no- thing else,” be thought to himself, Little Lucy had heard Dan call out, and imag- ining that some sort of a rescuer must be at hand, was screaming louder than ever, ' On and on pursued and pursuer dashed, over the rocks and through the thick undergrowth. Mrs, Starfield had a decided advantage. Though she had not been upon the island for , anumber of years she knew every foot of the way. She decided to lead Dan into a trap. Not a great way off wasa pool, and around this for fully fifty feet the ground was a perfect quagmire, ““T'lh teach the young fellow to follow me!” she muttered to herself. And a hard cold gleam passed over her eyes. It was easy to see from wht source Nichoias Starfield’s cruelty had been inherited, It took the woman but a few moments to reach the neighborhood of the pool. Several spots of solid ground were scattered around, and jump- ing from one to the othér she landed little Lucy and herself safely upon the other side. Then she waited for Dan toappear, and he was not long in coming. Through the open space he saw her form and renewed his speed, ‘*Stop!” he called out, ‘‘Stop! or I will fire!” As we know,he had neither pistol nor gun, but thought bis threat might frighten the wo- man. Mrs. S*arfield shook one of her fists at him, ‘*Go back with you!” she cried, derisively. ** Gy back, or you'll never get home again alive! Do zou think I'm to be caught by a boy?” Of. coarse Dan paid no attention to her warn- He did not understand its fulland horrible meaning; soon he dashed, — Suddenly one of his feet sunk into the soft sou, but he did not mind this, and took several more steps. Tben the very ground beneath him seemed to give why, ** ello! what's this?” he cried, A mocking laugh rung in his ears, He struggied to turn back, but too late! : There was no footing anywhere, and he real- ized toat a few moments more might bring death! i CHAPTER XIII. ADVENTURES ON THE ISLAND. ** ALP! help!” Dan wttered the cry more because there seem- ed to be nothing else to do than that be thought it -would bring assistance.’ ; He floundered to free himself and gain the solid ground again, bu6 every movement only served to sink him deeper into the treacherous mire, | ‘+ Merciful Heaven! is it all to end this way?” he thought, in borror. He turned his head to see if Mrs, Starfield was still on the other side, but both the woman and _ little Lucy bad disappeared. Dan was now up to his waist, and slowly, surely sinking; soon he would be up to hisshoul- ders, then his chin—and then?” He shivered in the agony of dread. ) ‘Teg life or death!” he muttered, to himself, **And I don’t intend to give up without the tallest kind of a struggle: so here goes!” And struggle he did, For full ten minutes he worked body, arms and legs, aS _ Toe iration poured from his face, and he | _bege w like a porpoise, His efforts were to useless, . / Nota foot could he advance or retreat. “‘['m stuck, and no mistake!” he thought _gloomily. “T su pose it’s only a question o tine oa te how pales I'll be able keep my head above this—this muck,” _ For a moment he paused to regain his breath, vi He was now up to bis shoulders, —_ j Ten minutes more and it’s good-by!” he This time an answer came. ** Where—are—you?” ‘*Here! Here! Here!” And Dan continued to repeat the single word until the bushes beyond the edge of the pool parted and Kerry appeared. The policeman was none too soon, The Boy Spy was already up to bisneck in the quagmire, ‘+ Phat’s the ma ter?’ cried the policeman, as he held up his lantern. ‘* Where’s the woman and the girrul?” ** Save me!” gasped Dan. and he fell back extisusted. Fortunately, Kerry understood the situation ata glance; his native home had been full of bogs and pitfalls of a similar nature. — “Och! it’s a bog-hole ye’r’ in, so itis!” he ex- claimed, ‘* Bad ’cess to ’em!” In an instant he set down his lantern and broke off a long branch froma bush that grew near, . ** Catch hould vo’ that!” Dan grabbed the branch justin time to pre- ven¢ his head from gving under, It was no easy job for even the strong Irish- man to pull bim to the solid ground. Once Kerry slipped, and came near sliding in himself, But he regained his footing, and a moment later Dan stood beside him, Toe Boy Spy was wet to the skin, and his clothing was covered with mud, Yet be did not mind even these inconreniences, so overjoyed was he to be out of danger once more, ‘*A few minutes more and I would have been a goner!” he panted. ‘* Never moind; ‘a miss is asgoodasa moile, returned Kerry. ‘Where did the woman go tol” ‘*Tnto the thicket yonder,” replied Dan, “And I’m going after her,” he added, with energy. 4 He was pretty well exhausted, but such a thing as giving up never entered his mind. “Til go wid ye,” said Kerry, ‘+ Ts Starfield safe?’ asked Dan. ‘* Tndeed, so he is, handcuffed and his feet tie in the bargain,” was the reply, “Good. We must take good care that he doesn’t get away.” While the two were speaking they had passed around the edge of the pool and entered the woods again, The lantern served them well, and by its rays they soon discovered the direction which Mrs. Starfield had taken. On and on they pressed, the trail, if it might be called such, getting fresher at every step. But presently Kerry, who walked first, with the light, uttered a.cry of dismay. They had suddenly come to the shore! Nothing but the water lay beyond. ““ Well, by the banshee of Donegal!” exclaimed the Irishman, scratching his head, ‘‘ Phat’s to do now?” Dan shook his head in perplexity. 2 at they have gone into the water?” he as . . sly Don’t know. Wait till Oi see how deep it Investigation proved that the bottom was at least five feet below the surface, ‘‘Mrs, Starfield couldn’t, have waded, that’s certain,” said our hero, ‘ Let us beat around a bit. She may be in hiding under our very oses. ‘The little girral would let us know.” ‘* Perbaps sbe has gagged her,” said Dan, “True! Oi didn’t think o’ that,” Nearly a half an hour was spent in a fruitless effort, and then the two : “Oi give it up,” declared Kerry, ‘‘ We'll have to be getting back soon,” he added, ‘‘The pert eant will be getting impatient, so he **You can go back,” returned Darn, ‘I'm go- ing stay here.” ates the dark” “T can’t get ont!” ”) be “ T Dan, the Boy Spv-Detective. ‘Yes, But let me have a few matches. Mine are all wet,” : Kerry gave him the matches, ** Have ye a pistol?” he asked, as No,” ** Oi have two.” ‘“* Then lend me one,” Kerry handed over the weapon. ** When will ye be back?” *T can’t say, I menn tostay around until something turnsnp, Whaat time is it?’ “Two o'clock,” “It willbe getting light in a couple of hours more, and then I’m sure Ili find out some- thing.” ‘*But yer wot duds? ye’ll be catching yer death o’ cold.” Dan laughed at the idea, “ve slept out in the woods in the wet many a tine, and didn’t feel it,” hereplied, ‘‘ I'm not as ten fer es all that,” ‘* Will ya go back to the house?” ; “Yes, If you wans me, firetwo shots in qui*k succession, and I’ll do the same,” “* Allright.” In a few moments more Kerry departed and Dan was left alone, It was by no means a cheerful situation, All around was gloomy and damp, and not a sound could be heard, Finding as comfortable a nook as he could, Dan sat down to think, : Presantiy his eyes closed and in a second more he was asleep, ; How lons this sleep lasted he could not tell. Dan awoke withasrart, ‘¢ This will never do!” Lo exclaimed to himself, ““T might better have gone bacc with Kerry. For all | know—” Dan did not have a chance to finish the thought, A sudden blow in the back of the neck caused him to stagger forward, Another, end be fell forward like a log. behind him, ‘‘ Now to get rid of his body!” And stepping from her hiding-place, Mrs, Starfield dragged Dan’s inanimate form to the edge of the lake and shoved it into the water. CHAPTER XIV. DAN FINDS LITTLE LUCY. SPLASH! Dan's body struck the water, sunk under a foot or more, and then came to the surface, , For an instant the form lay as one dead, Tnen the cold water revived it, and he gave a shudder from head to foot. He was still live! Aninstant later the current carried him un- der some overhangimg bushes. Mrs, Starfield watched the form out of sight, and then turning, sped into the thicket, ‘*‘ He's gone for good,” she muttered to her- self. ‘It?s murder. If they catch me now Vil be hung. I’m worse than Nicholas,” But a few stops away she came to a large overhanging Behind it, ning. PT his she entered. Inside was a small cavern, searcely six feet square. Aé one time it had been the lair of some wild animal, for the bones of many smaller animals were strewn in all directions, Tn one corner sat little Lucy, her hands tied behind her, and a handkerchief fastened around her neck and over her mouth, ; The little miss had been crying bitterly, Her eyes were red and swollen, but the rest of her face was blanched with fecr. » Mrs. Starfield advanced and removed the ‘handkerchief, ‘‘Are you ready to keep quiet row?” she asked, severely. rock. between the bushes, was a ‘smali to) Little Lucy choked down a sob, ‘*T want to go home to my papa,” she replied, S I don’t want to stay here.” morrow if you are a good girl.” ‘“ What will my pape say? He doesn’t know- where I am.” . as Ob, yes, he does. He knows his little gir] is safe. i But this statement was such a palpable lie that it was no wonder little Lucy di lieve it, ’ * Won't come for me?” she asked, ‘““Maybe—if you keep quiet,” ire Starfield becaine enraged. OFT E iie! ‘Tt guess I’ve finished him,” muttered a voice You can’t go home now. Maybe you can to- | not be- But this was not aenarng news, and the
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‘foot, Plucky Dan, the Boy Spy-Detective. ‘Shut up now!” sbe exclaimed, harshly. **Shut up or [il kill you!” More frightened than ever, screnmed at the top of her lungs. Her ncise seemed to awaken every evil passion in Mre, Starfield’s nature, At her feet iay the clnbd which had been used 80 forcibly upon Dan's skull. She picked up the weapon and gazed at it. ‘Nicholas is captured, and lve already killed one person; why not get the other out of the way and finish the job?’ she whispered to herself. ‘*I owe it to Nicholas to get tbe yel- low-haired thing out of Fred Shepland’s reach, anyway.” And with a tigerish gleam in her eyes, she advanced upon hitule Lucy. Meanwhile, what of Dan? In less than two minutes from the time that he had been shoved into the water, he came to himself, For an instant a thousand pains seemed to jeniteg through his head and down bis back- one, But as he swept under the bushes he realized what had occurred, and grasping the branches overbead he managed by sheer will power to pull bimself ashore. Once on the bank, be sunk down exbausted, ‘*Crickety! what a crack she gave me!” he mumbled to himself, as he lay back, bis head resting against a tree-trunk., ‘‘ My head spins like a top,” For several moments he did not move a finger, ‘“* But I’m not dead yet,” he continued, ‘ and she'll find it out, too, just as soon aslcan get jay second wind.” How long he would have remained quiet we cannot say, but presently he jumped up as if he had received an electric dines, ‘* What's that?” ; From the distance came a faint scream, “Ts little Lucy!” ‘ The screaming grew louder. For a second Dan steppe to locate the cries, little Lucy ‘and then darted forward. The cavern soon came into view, and so weak ey he could hardly stand, the Boy Spy rushed inside, He was none too soon, Mrs. Starfield’s club was raised over little Lucy’s head, A moment, more and the brains of the little miss would have been dashed out. Stop!” cried Dan. ‘Stop or [ will fire!” And pulling out the pistol Kerry had loaned him, he aimed it at the woman’s head. Mrs, Starfield uttered a cry of alarm. | She was taken completely by surprise, ’ The light was still uncertain, yet Dan’s aim seemed to be dangerously true, ** You—you—” faltered the woman, in amaze- ment. ‘Yes, me,” replied Dan, ‘I’m not so dead as you thought I was. Drop that club,” Mrs, Starfield made a rush for him, ‘*T won't!” she cried. ‘‘l’m not to be caught bv a boy!” ‘* Stand back, or I’ll fire!” But, enraged beyond reason, the woman rush- ed upon him, Cras: Taking aim at the upraised arm, Dan pulled the trigger. Click! . The bammer fell, but there was no report. The soaking in the water had rendered the weapon useless, : **Ha! ha! I have you now!” With the laugh of # fiend Mrs. Starfield brought down blow after blow upon Dan’s head _ and shoulders, He was too weak to resist. He prt up his hands feebly to ward off tack, but the action was useless, _ With little Lucy’s cries ringing in his ears, he the at- - _ Sunk to the ground. Then all became a blank. ‘Starfield kicked his body with her “‘ He brought it on himself,” she said, to her- self. ‘* Wonder if he is shamming?” Taking her club she prodded Dan in the site and under the ribs, ae made no sign, w I do with him?” looked around and thought for several taking off a heavy apron that she wore, into adie ad uouhd Dan’s hands ened them to the root of a the rocks, exclaimed. Help! ; guess it’s genuine,” was her comment, “*Now, what if you ever come to, you will have the pleasure of starving to death.” ‘* Help! Help !” he called out. A moment moreand a little girl peered through . To make her work doubly sure, she also tied | the smoke into Dan’s white face. Dan’s feet fast to the edge of a rock. It was little Lucy’s face and form the amazed ‘‘Now we'll leave you to yourself,” she said, Boy Spy-Detective beheld. ; ? ‘* Come along with me.” | The latter words were addressed to little) ‘*\ Lucy, who had watched the proceedings in hor- | the little one’s earnest reply. ‘Ts that you, Miss Lucy?” he gasped. ‘* Yes, Mister Dart. I want to help you,” was ‘* Where did you come from?” asked Dan, in ror, ““What do you want to treat Mr. Dart that | wonder. way for?” gasped the little miss, ‘**Nover you mind,” snarled Mrs, Starfield. ** Come on!” } And yanking little Lucy by the hand she made her way out of the cavern. Once outside,she paused for a moment in con- templation. ‘Wanted to shoot me, eh?” she muttered, savagely, ‘I'll fix you, just see if I don’t!” Near by wasa pile of dead leaves and brush- wood, This she carried over to the cavern entrance and shoved it into the opening. ‘* What are you going to do with Mr, Dart?” asked little Lucy, puzzled by all the strange actions. ‘*Little girls mustn’t ask questions,” was the nip **}) don’t like you to use Mr, Dart so,” con- tinued the little miss with spirit. ‘(fs Mr, Dart a relation of yours?” asked Mrs, Starfield, suddenly pausing in her nefarious work, ‘*No; he’s a friend of papa.” * “ Are you sure?” ‘* Papa said so.. But I don’t want you to treat him this way, because he’s a friend of mire, too. . ‘¢ Never mind, come on.” | And taking the little girl again by the hand, Mrs. Starfield led her quite a ways into the woods, , ‘**Now you stay here and wait-for me,” she commanded. ‘ Don’t you dare move,” Leaving little Lucy, Mrs. Starfield hurried back to the cavern, : Lighting a match she applied it to the brush- wood, which blazed up instantly. **Reckon that’ll fix you!” she hissed. And then she left poor Dan to his fate, CHAPTER XV. A CLOSE SHAVE, DAN lay as one dead. Battered and bruised from head to foot, it was only hig naturally strong constitution that made him rally. He regained consciousness slowly. The blood trickled from his forehead, and the top of his head was terribly swollen. He drew several long and painful breaths, and then essayed to rise. Of course he could not, and it took buta few seconds for him to realize his utterly helpless ._ condition, : AEacgial 4 a pretty go,” he muttered, disconso- ately. He tugged at the binding upon his bands and feet, but Mrs, Starfield bad done her work efficaciously, and the knots held, ‘*T suppose that woman meant for me to die and rot here,” he thought, dismally. At that instant a tiny flame appeared near the entrance, , ; ‘* Hello! what’s that?’ Dan watched the flame intently. As it increased in size, he saw by its light the piled-up leaves and brushwood around him. / An instant later a puff of wind drove the flames and sparks into the cavern! ‘*Merciful heavens!” he ejaculated, ‘‘she means to burn me alive!’ The wind continued to drive the flames dan- gerously near to the helpless Spy-Detective, and the smoke and sparks soon filled the cavern. Every second it was growing hotter, The now thorougbly alarmed lad struggled with might and main to free himself of his bonds, but—to no purpose. The woman had done her work only too well, ‘“*My God!” he cried, ia agony. Help!” ; be flames came closer. He turned his face away so that it might not be blistered, What was that? A noise outside. A moment later the burning brushwood was scattered little by little, as if some feeble hand was at work, Soon a draught of cool air, that Dan thought the sweetest he had ever felt, esa in despite the smoke that now filled the cave Save me! caer a ee ee ee a Oe et eee ‘* Tran away from that bad—bad old woman, Won’t you take me back home, Mr, Dart?” ‘Indeed I will!” replied Dan, quickly. ‘* Will you untie my hands, little chum?” ** Oh, ves, if [ can,” But the tough knots, made tighter than ever by the prisoner’s struggles, were too much for the little maid’s delicate fingers. ‘** Here, bold up!” called ont Dan. ‘Just put your hand in that pocket. You'll find a knife,” He indicated the pocket, and little Lucy did as directed. The knife was drawn, and in a moment the bonds were cut, Dan sprung to his feet. ** Come out into the open air,” he said. too much for me in here.” They emerged from the cavern, and, finding a crevice behind a rock, sat down to rest. “ Where is Mrs, Starfield?’ asked Dan, as he busied himself in cutting a large club. “*T don’t know. She told me to wait for her, and [ ran away and came to you,” “You saved my life.” “Did 1? I’m awfully glad. You're going to take me back to my papa, aren’t you?” ‘‘' Yes, Miss Lucy, just as quick as’ I can. You know your papa is a long ways from here.’ ‘*T know it. We have to ride in the cars, don’t we, Mr, Dart?” t ‘* Yes, alldayand all night. But, please don’t: call me Yr. Dart. lain’t used to it. Cull me Dan,” * All right, Mr. Dan,” Mr. Dan was os bad as Mr. Dart, but the young detective made no furtver protest, The brief conversation hud given Dana chance to recuver somewhat, both mentally and pliysic- ally, and thinking over all that was seemingly best to do, concluded that it would be safest to return to the cottage at once. : “The sergeant will be wondering what has become of me,” be thoucbt. ‘*I hope he and his man will wait until I get back.” Dan was as tired as could'be, and as for little Lucv, it was only the unusual excitement taat kept her awake, As we havesaid, the Boy-Spy had spent many ““Tt'g nigbts in the woods, so the darkress did not bother him, ; Guided by the stars he led the way back slow- ly, being careful that he should get into no more quaegmires, Little Lucy walked slower,and slower until, worn out as be was, Dan took her up in his arms and carried ber. His wounded shoulder pained almost beyond endurance, but he set bis teeth hard and uttered no complaint, — At length the cottage appeared in sight, About it all was dark and silent. Dan uttered a cry of dismay. ““They’re gone, sure enough!” he exclaimed; dismally. Upon the door a bit of paper was fastened. Lighting a match Dan read it: ** We have taken Starfield to Kenasaw. Stay here unti) we return,” \ f dl Dan looked at the paper closely. The hand- writing was a peculiar one; he was sure he had seen it before. Had he seen it on the blotter at the police- station? ly No; it was not like any bandwritin.z there, Where, then, had he seen it? : Suddenly an idea flashed across his mind, The same hand that had written this notice had penned the letter be had found at the hotel in Kenasaw! “It is Starfield's work!” he exclaimed in be- wilderment. ‘*What does it all mean?’ — \ rb open the door of the cottage, he entered, A candle stood upon the table, and ina second » Dan had it Ji i Everything was in confusion, The cot and two chairs lay in a wreck upon tle floor, while A Bg white pillow were several drops of There had certainly been a fight who bad come out best Dan pli not re gag bn ge He was suce that the notice upon the door was 4 ei bh cat 4 11 chr. He | F a
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SS Plucky Dan, t a blind; and, that being so, what had become of Starfield and the officers? Faint from exhaustion, he sat down upon the only whole chair in the place, | Dan. “T didn’t think of the old witch! Wonder where she is now?” ‘* Looking for the little girl, I suppose,” replied ** Come, let’s get back to the cottage. I Little Lucy had not noticed the condition of | hate to have the little one: ut of my sight.” affairs, for, safe in Dan's arms, she had goue fast asleep. He laid her down tenderlv. : ‘* Let her sleep,” he thought. | Just at that moment Dan felt almost t.o weak to plan any future course of action, Tf T only had a drink of water,” he murmur- ed; ‘*it would freshen me up a bit.” But a glance around showed nothing drink- ‘able in the place, Then he remembered that when they had first come to the cottage by the path from the shore ‘they had passed a spring. **T'll get some of that, A drink and a wash will brace me up as much as anything.” In the corner stood a pail, and, taking it up, ‘be passed out of the cottage, leaving little Lucy fast asleep near theinner door, . it was now growing lighter, and Dan judged ‘that it mast be between four an‘ five o'clock, He kept his eyes and earson thealert, resolved to be surprised no more if such a thing could be avoided, ‘*i’m almost a case now,” be thought, as he drew a long, painful breath, ‘‘A few more such cracks as that woman gave me, and Pll pass in my checks,” Using his club as a cane, he moved slowly for- ward, As he neared the spring, several dark-red patches upon the path attracted his attention. ° More bloou! Dan shivered. himself together and grasped his weapon firmly. As he neared the spring the Boy Spy uttered a cry of borror. There, the face covered with blood, lay the rigid form of Sergeant Wooi!! **She needs it.” Weak as he was, he drew CHAPTER XVI. THE HUT IN THE WOODS, ) ‘*THm man is dead!” This was the thought that flashed over Dan’s mind, . Sergeant Wood certainly looked so. Falling down on his knees, the boy turned the body over and put his ear to the officer’s chest, ‘* No, be isn't dead! He breathes still.” It was true; the man did breathe, faintly. Overjoyed at this discovery, Dan soon pro- — water and dashed it into the sergeant’s ‘ace. There was a shudder, and then a gasp. ‘“Where—where— Who are you?’ he ex- claimed, in a husky whiaper, ‘‘ Don’t—don’t hit me again!” ** You're all right!” replied Dan, reassuringly. ** Keep quiet.” Tbere was water remaining in the pail, and of this Dan drank deeply, and then proceed to wash both the sergeant’s face and his own. It was full ten minutes before either of the two were able to converse intelligibly. © ** How did it happen?” asked ea chyna Sergeant Wood’s story was a rather discon- ook ys he being in no condition to tell it stra) : As far as Dan could learn, Starfield bad at- tacked the officer immediately after Kerry’s de- parture, | 2 The man had either slipped his handcuffs or opened them, and then sprung upon the officer. hitting bim over the head with a lantern and then using one of the chairs, __Ithad been a fierce fight, in which Sergeant Wood had for some time bravely held his own; but by an accident he had slipped to the floor, and then all became a blank, When he came to, he was outside in a clump of busbes, ; / Remembering the spring, be had tried to Peey to the spot, but, ad fainted. “And you know the rest,” he concluded, “* Where are the woman and the little girl?” “The little girlis safe,” replied Dan, and he related his portion of the night’s adventures, “*T wish we had Starfield and his mother safe- ly bi »” be added. ‘‘Have you any idea where the villain has Ecce to?” , ‘Taken one of the boats and left the island, I suppose,” returned the sergeant. ‘' There wouldn’t te any advantage in his staying here. He'd be caught sooner or later.” ** But bis mother?” ‘The officer scratched bis head, fore he could reach it, B th slowly arose and made their way back to the abode, As they did so Dan fancied he heard a noise in the bushes to the left. He halted at once, ‘* Who goes there?” be demanded, while the sergeant drew bis pistol, *Ocb, but iv’s only me, so it is!” exclaimed a voice in unmistakable [rish avcents, and an in- start later Kerry stepped into the opening. **Ye got back afore Oi did!” he continued to Dan, ‘ Bad’cess to the bushes and the rocks and the darkness!” Ever since he had left his boy pard on the lake shore, Kerry had been wandering around trying to find the cottage. He lamented loudly at the disastrous turn affairs bad taken, ‘*Oi’d loike to see that woman and her son both dance a jiz on nothing at all, so Il: would,” was his strongly-expressed wish, ‘Never mind, we have the little girl, and that’s one consolation,” replie | Dan, He was the first to enter the cottage and the others quickly followed, The candle upon the table had burnt itself out, but the early morning light was beginning to creep into the eastern window, Dan’s eves at once sought the corner where he had left lit:le Lucy, fuily expecting to see her still there fast asleep. Soe was gone! Startled beyond measure he searched the room hastily, and also entered the front apart- ment, The little girl had disappeared completely! Not a trace of her was to be found anywhere. ‘* She’s gone!” he ejaculated, ‘* Maybe she went to look for you?” suggested Sergeant Wood. ‘*{ hope so,” replied Dan, ‘Heaven grant that she hasn’t been carried off again!” He ran outside and made a hasty tour of the cottage, calling ber name, ‘There was no reply. Almost distracted, he went inside, **She must be here, or else very near,” ex claimed Dan. ‘“‘ Why, I haven't been gone from the house ten minutes,” ‘Then you can make sure that the man or his mother has been here since you were gone,” replied Sergeant Wood. * We'll go out and make a hunt, though I’m as weak as a cat,and I know you're not much better,” he added. ‘I’m worth a dozen cats,” declared Dan, drawing himself together. ‘‘I mean to find her, if it takes a month,” He drew out the pistol Kerry had loaned iim and wiped it off, **Give me a few dry cartridges,” he continued. “Tm going to huve no nonsense this time, It’s kill or get killed,” There was a determined glitter in the lad’s eye as he spok | The Irishman handed over the ammunition. ** You had better go down to the boats,” Dan went on. ‘If one of them has been used, fire a shot.to let me know. If both are still there, fire two shots, and then put the boats into anotber hiding-place where the Starfields can’t find them. Do you understend?” ‘* Vis, sor,” replied Kerry. ‘‘Phat of you, sergeant?” he continued, to his superior, ** Pll go out just as soon as I’m able,” replied the officer. ‘‘Just let me rest awhile, and I'll go hunting, too.” If the truth must be toli, Sergeant Wood was ust the least bit of a coward, and the beating tarfield had given him had taken all the brav- ery out of bim. na moment Dan and the policeman de- parted. Dan hardly knew in what direction to turn, but, bidding Kerry remember the instructions given him, he struck into the woods, ** Pl] search every foot of the island before [ leave it,” he said to himself, ‘‘ Uniess I’m sure Starfield has taken himself off.” It was not long before the sounds of two shots reached his ears. “That means that both boats are still there. I don’t think there are any more boats, and, if that is so, then Starfield, his mother and little roe are still on the island. I must find em, Dan remgha to strike into the interior as far as 8. hether it was by intuition or chanco it ran he Boy Spy-Detective. ee in his mind that this was the path Starfield had taken. On and on ne went. Presently he struck quite a well-defined path. ** Hello!” be exclaimed.. ‘‘ Where does tuais lead to, I wonder? It can’t be that I’ve got turned around and this is the road to tae shore.” A few minutes’ walk convinced him that the pava was a new one to him, “Pll follow it to the end,” ne resolve. ‘*Paths always lead somewhere, and one dire *- tion seems just as good as another to follow.” Saddeuly something shiny upon the ground attracted his attention, Picking up the obiect he uttered an exclama- tion. It was a silver buckle that be’onged to a belt little Lucy Shepland had worn around her waist, ‘I'm on the right track!" cried Dan, ‘‘ Now I must be careful. No more failures.” Seeing that his pistol was in proper order for instant use, he burried cautiously furwerd. The road was a wild one, and choked ia many places, Dan had all he could do to keep the brambles from scratching his eyes, and the loose rocks from twisting his feet and ankles out of shape. Atlength a turn in the road brought him to & small clearing. On the other side arose a small wall of stone, moas-covered and crumbly. At the foot of the rocks a rude nut was built. It seemed to bo very old, and looked asif it might tumble down at any moment. No one was in sight, “Guess [ won’t expose myself just yet.” said Dan to himself. ‘‘Some one may be in the place.” He had hardly finished before the door cf the hut swung open and Starfleld came out. He looked none the worse for his encounter with Sergeant Wood, but bis whole appearance indicate | that he wasina aati! | bad bum +r, ‘*Come out here!” he called out sharply. An ins ant later little Lucy came from tue hut, weeping as if her heart would break. CHAPTER XVII, A BITTER FIGHT, DAN was delighted to sev little Lucy Sheplant once more. Thongh the little maid was sobbing bitter'y, he saw with great satisfaction that she was un- barmed, At once he drew his pistol, for he meant to be the little one’s rescuer, even at the risk of his life, **Stop your noise, do you hear?” exclaimed Starfield, to the little girl, ‘‘Do you ye +e ae going to stand your infernal racket ail the ime ‘*Oh, Mr, Starfield, please, please let me go back!” cried the frightened girl. “You can’t go back! Now shut up!” he re- buked, in a ye preset tone. **You said I could, Mr. Starfield,” she en- treated, pitifully. * Well, I’ve changed my mind,” growled the abductor, To state the truth, the little girl strongly re- sembled her who had been her mother, and for that reason Starfield bated her, ‘© Won't you let Mr. Dan take me?” continued his captive. : ‘*Mr, Dan? Who's he?” Mr. Dan Durt.” **Oul No, I guess not—in fact, I’m sure not,” Starfield added to himself, And he smiled grimly. “That cursed boy shall never get her in his pact again,” he muttered. ‘I'll kill ber ret!” Starfield was perplexed. , He krew not which way to turn or what to 0. Besides, be was not a little worried about the whereabouts of bis mother, For aught he knew she might he dead, either at Dan’s bands or at those of the two minions of the law. It was by the merest chance that he had caught sight of the Boy Spy-Detective, followed him back to the cottage, and then made off with little Lucy. He bad heard the two shots fired by Kerry, and they had bothered him not a little. ‘*The amount of it is that this place is get- ting too hot for me,” was conclusion, [6 won’t be many bours before the entire Kenasaw lice will come down here to look for me. I'll uve to hunt up mother and then find some way of leaving the island,” : 45
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“it ay 5, It was now bread daylight and, walkiog well out ints the clearing, Starflaid cast a sharp glance in «ll directions, But Dan kept well out of sight behind a clump of trees. Little Lucy meanwhile remained silent fora few minutes, and then, overcome by the terrors of her situation, burst out crying anew, Har tears seemed to madden Startield beyond endarance, Ho dit not say a word, but going up toher, he boxed her ers rougiily. ** (il teach you to disobey me!” he exclaimed, in @ passion. Anithen he raised his hands to repeat the blows. ** Stop that!” Tue words were spoken in cold, clear tones, Starfied jumped around as it electrified, Tuen he grew pale, and his knees trembled in spite of himself. Before him stood Dan, tis teeth set, and a look of absolute determination snowing itself upon every line of his face, In his right hend the Boy Spy held his pistol, and at this instant the weapon was aimed di- rectly at Starfield’s head, ** You!” cried the abductor, taking a step for- ward, ‘*Stop where you are!” commanded Dan, ** Don’t you dare stir, or by that rising sun over yonder, I'll kill you!” Starfield stopped short. To be thwarted by a boy was. galling, me the fixed look in Dan’s eyes compelled him to obey. ‘What do you want?” he asked, doggedly, but the Boy Spy did not deign to answer the question. He was interested in little Lnuev, who had at first uttered a scream at his sudden appearance, but now rushed forward and clung fast to his left hand, ‘*Taink you’re smart, don’t you?” sneered Starfield, hardly knowing what to say, ‘*{ don’t think so,” replied Dan; ‘I know it. Throw up your hands!” he continue, sberply. For Starfield had made a movement in the di- as? ot his hip pocket, ‘““Trv that again,” continued the Boy Spy, ‘and I'll give you a dose of cold lead at once,” Startield shivered, Naturally be was no coward, but Dan’s man- ner overawed him, ** Miss Lucy,” be continued, ‘* Yes, Mr. Dan.” ‘* Listen tome, Do you see this pistol in my han?” ** Yes, sir.” ‘* Well, just go and see if there isn’t one like it in that man’s pocket,” “Ou, Mr. Dan!” “ Don’t be afraid—he won’t hurt you.” ‘* Don’t come near me!” roared Starfield. ‘*1’il break her neck!” “You won't lay a finger on her,” returned Dan, calmly, Somewhat timidly little Lucy did as she had been directed, Ssarfield trembled with rage, but, as the Boy Spy had predicted, he offered no resistance. The little miss’s search was rewarded by find- ga pistols, both in prime condition. an transferred them to his pocket, \ Fissed Starfield, ‘You shall pay for this!” bitterly. ‘* Maybe—I’ll take my chances,” replied the young detective coolly, ‘* What are you going to do with me?” asked Starfield. Dan made no immediate reply, In truth, he was considerably bothered by the ‘situation. He did not wish to leave Starfield behind, and yet, to nake him march along and at the same time take care of little Lucy Dan realized was a difficult and hazardous undertaking. ** You'll have to go along with me,” he said, finally. ‘‘And mind you, no underband work, 1 won’t stand any fooling.” . Starfield made no answer, . He was watching Dan as a cat watches a mouse, But, all ordinary circumstances considered, the Boy Spy was ready for him, But just here an urfortunate thing oc- curred, Little Lucey, all unconscious of what she was doing, placed herself directly between the wo, ; In an instant Starfield snatched her up and er her directly into Dan’s face. course, to keep her from being injured, our Plucky Dan, the Boy Spy-Detective. hero was compelled to catch the little miss and | He gave a hewl of pain, and sunk t) the set her on the ground. In doing this he was foreed to lower his pistol. This was the single chance for which Starfield had been watching. . With a savage cry he pounced upon Dan and bore him to the ground, And then began a fearful struggle—a struggle for life and death, Over and over the two rolled—first one on top and then the other, ‘It’s kill or be killed, I suppose,” thought an. He gathered all hisremaining strength to gain the suprem:cy. In his band he still held the pistol and this he endeavored to use, Starfield saw the action and triei to turn the muzzle to one side. la jhe tumbling about the two pistols Dan had put into his pocket dropped out, But neither of the two men saw them. Little Lucy ran about crying. She wished to help Dan but did not know how to go at it, Presently, inch by inch Dan got his pistol pointed at the other’s breast. ‘* Now surrender,” be gusped, ‘Or I’ll fire.” Starfield relaxed his grasp. But just then a noise behind him prompted Dan to look around, His face fell, And well it might, for behind him stood Mrs, Starfield, Z She had picked up her son’s two pistols, and now had both pointed at Dan’s head. CHAPTER XVIII, TWO TO ONE, DAN was greatly surprised at the sudden in- terruption, and fr an iustant was tempted to relinquish his advantage over Starfield. But instinct told him that such a course might prove fatal to his chances of success, “Let my son up!” cried Mrs, Starfield, shrilly. Dan never budged, **Do you hear!’ continued ths woman. “ Let him up or I will shoot,” ‘*Stand back!” Dan replied, determinedly. ‘* Another step and I'll lay your son dead at your feet.” ; Mrs. Starfield saw the boy’s shining weapon; saw, too, the fire in his eye, and stepped back a ce, “Shoot bim, mother!” roared Starfield, in a rage. ‘'Shoot him! Never mind me!” ** Do it at your peril!” added Dan, j Mrs, Starfield again raised one of the pistols. ‘Let my son get up, or I'll fire!” she re- peated, By the tone of her voice Dan saw that this time she meant it. With a sudden movement he threw Starfield’s body on top of bis own, Meanwhile little Lucy, seeing the danger that was threatened, ran to Mrs, Starfield and caught hold of the arm that held the pistol. Crack |! Tne weapon went off just as the little miss had destroyed its aim, The bullet grazed Dan’s arm and buried itself in Starfield’s shoulder, The man uttered a groan. * You’ve killed your son!” exclaimed the Boy Spv-Detective, White with fear, Mrs, Starfield dropped her weapons and rushed forward, This was Dan’s chance, He jumped to his feet, and before the woman could realize his actions, had secured the wea- pons, and was pointing one of them and his own at ber and Nicholas Starfield, —s._ ‘*My son! my son! are you dead?” cried the woman, falling upon the man, But Starfield was not dead, Indeed, he was not even badly burt. He threw off his mother and sprung up. “*Tt’s only a flesh- wound,” he answered. te the boy, we'll soon—” 6 sto short, Crack a Dan had pulled the trigger of one o’ the pis- So and the bullet had just grazed the man’s og. _“* Stop where you are!” cried the Boy Spy, ex- bet ae ** My blood’s up now, and I’m not to be r oe aa took another step toward him. rac This time the bullet buried itself in the man’s upon a couch with 5 leg. } pt Sess sh seston round, or Youve got to mind!” said Dan, grimly. ‘* Heretofore l’ve been easy with you both, but that’s ended now, and both of you bave either got togivein or giveupyour lives, Youcanutake your croice.” Sterfield gave a groan, ** You have done me up,” he muttered. be lame for life.” ‘*Tf so, itis your own fault. Mrs, Starfiel!, keen back.” For the woman had made asif to spring upon him, The woman’s eyes flashed wickedly, but she obeyed the injunction, aud turned ber attention to her son, The loss of blood bad made Starfield faint. 4* Will you let me get some water?” asked the mother, turning to Dan, ** Where will you get it?” ‘* There is a spring behind the rocks.” “ What will you get it in?” ‘There is a tin can at the spring, I think.” Dan hesitated. ‘“ Weil, po.” he replied. ‘*‘ But remember, the least fooling, and your life shall pay the forfeit.” In un instant the woman had disappeared, While she was gone Dan deliberated upon what to do next, lt. did not tuke him long to decide upon his course of uction. He knew Starfield was too badly hurt to move very far from where he now lay, and he was. sure that the motherly instincts of even such a woman as Mrs, Sturfield would not permit her: to abandon her son tv his fate while he was thus suffering, ‘* Ph get little Lucy safe, and then attend to these two later,” was Dan’s conclusion. ‘* Come, we will go,” be said to tne little girl. And taking her by the band he hurried her away as fast as possible, Dan was getting familiar with the island now,, and it took him but a short while to reach the ape cottage. No one was in sight. ¥ He fired off his pistol. The effect of the shot was to bring out Ser- geant Wood, who had been taking it easy on the cot inside, ‘* Aha!” exclaimed the officer. found the little gir].” ‘*Yes. Where is Kerry?” ‘*T don’t know, Down to the boats I suprose. I felt so bad [ had to lay down again.» Where are the two abductors?” ‘“‘The man is shot and the woman.is. taking: care of him,” “Snot, eb?” Sergeant Wood felt braver at once, * I'll go and arrest them without delay.” ‘* But you don’t know the way,” said Dan. ' Wuile they were speaking Kerry came hurry- gz up. ‘*Oi heard the shots, and thought Oi’d like a hand in if there was « foight,” he explained, . He was quickly given tu understand the situa- tion. ‘Now, sergeant, will you take care of the little girlf’ asked Dan. “If you wik I'll take Kerry slong and go arrest tne two,” ‘*But I think I ought to go,” said Ser t: Wood, with an important shake of his head, ** As an officer—” ‘** But Starfield is a desperate man,” returned Dan, who could read the sergeant like an open book, and knew that the cfficer was only look- ae? glory when there was no danger at- tache ‘Oh, well, if you insist—” ‘* But will you take good care of the gir] while Iam gone?” ; ** Certainly.” ** Miss Lucy, will you stay here till I come back?” “If you want me to, Mr, Dan.” “‘T won't be gone long, Come, Kerry.” **-Yis, sor.” In a moment the two were off, On the way Dan related to the policeman: oa bad occurred, and what might be ex- pected. had soon reached the clearing opposite the rocks, No one was to be seen. : For a moment Dan was stunned by thedis- covery. Tnen he rushed over to the hut and kicked open the door. “So you've it was somewhat dark inside. But by the dim light he saw Starfield lying: ith his mother beside him.. ‘Here they are,” said Dan to Kerry,. “TD. .
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_ store for him, «Dar lowed. don’t think the man in his present condition can do much harm, but you better be careful,” ‘“T won’t give him any chance,” replied the Trishman. And taking outa pair of handcuffs he fast- ened them around Starfield’s wrists, ‘‘Now, your turn, me leddy,” he continued to Mrs, Starfield, The woman submitted without a murmur. She knew that it would be useless to attempt re- sistance, and, besides, the wounding of her son had taken all the fight out of ber. ‘* Where am I to go?” she asked of Dan, ‘*To the Kenasaw Jail,” was our hero’s reply. ‘*Toe jail! And what are you going to do with my son?” ‘* Leave him here for the present, until we get Teady to remove.bhim,” ‘** Leave him alone?” doctor.” ** Do—save my son and I don’t care what be- comes of me,” ~~ the woman, eagerly. Dan looked at her half-kindly, ‘** You are not so bad after all,” he declared. “T believe if it wasn’t for your son you might ibe a pretty good woman.” Mrs, Starfield was silent. But, nevertheless, she heaved a sigh, for the shot had struck home, It did not take long for Dan to reach the cot- age. He found little Lucy safe in Sergeant Wood's charge, and together the four made their way to whera Kerry had hidden the boats, The return to Kenasaw was rather a silent one, Once again Mrs, Starfield asked Dan if he was a relative of the Sheplands, and seemed sur- prised at the negative answer. ‘*It must be,” she murmured to herself, “ It cannot be otherwise.” On returning to the city, Sergeant Wood took charge of the women while Dan proceeded with little Lucy to the hotel. On the way he stopped at a telegraph-office and seht this message to Mr. Shepland: ‘* Your little child is found. Come imme- diately, Allis well.” At the Eugle House Dan explained matters to the proprietor. Of course the man was greatly surprised at the situation, and he thought the sa Spy quite a lion, ‘he matron soon put little Lucy at ease, and, after both the little girl and Dan had had a good wash, they sat down to a warm and hearty break fast, It will be needless to relate the particulars of the removal of Starfield to Kenasaw. ‘he ab- ductor’s wounds were not severe ones, but yet they were sufficient to keep him from offering any resistance or planning any mode of es- cape. Ban saw both him and Mrs. Starfield safe in jail, and then returned to the hotel to await Mr, Shepland’s arrival, mis He was proud of the victory he had won, which he was sure would be well rewarded. Yet, never for a moment did he dream of the startling disclosure that tiie near future held in ——— ‘CHAPTER XIX. A STARTLING CONFESSION, To tell the truth, Dan passed a restless day ek wakeful night waiting for Mr. Shep- an His shoulder pained him not a little, and the dector to whom he went advised him to keep quiet for several days at the very least, Little Lucy occupied a room adjoining his own, and during the night her preserver was ever on the alert to see that she was not dis- turbed or was not frightened by her strange sit- uation Dan arose at six o'clock, and, after washing - and dressing, descended to the office, As he entered, a gentleman rushed up and i grasped him warmly by thehand, — It was Mr. Shepland! | “You didn’t lose any time,” said Dan, after th greeting was over. ; thar Santen ORs int received your ,” Tep m I’. Where i La Come Tl take you up.” rf ; Dan led the way, and the fappy father fol- Plucky Dan, the Boy ES ee eee At No, 44 they stopped, and the Boy Spy knocked. ‘* Who's there?” asked a childish voice. “ItisJ]—Dan. Your papa is here.” Lad Ou 1” There was a hasty scramble within. Then the key turned in the lock, the door opened, and Dan caught sight of a little figure in white that sprung straight intu the parent’s outstretcbed arms, ‘* When you want me you'll find me in the par- lor,” remarked Dan, with a blush, And he left them to evjey alone a happy meeting that he would not bave imterrupted for the world, Yet as he went down-stairs a curious lump arose in his throat. ‘*1t’s nice to have a father or some sort of a relation,” he sighed to himself, t Any scene like the one above made Dan feel bitterly lonely. Haif an hour later father and daughter came down together, Little Lucy rushed up to Dan and gave him such a hearty kiss as made him blush as he never had before, and for an instant he wished he was tramping the Grayville woods instead of stand- ing in a public parlor, During breakfast Dan told Mr, Shepland the particulars of all that had occurred. ‘You have indeed done well,” declared the importer, when the boy had finished, ‘‘ Up tolast night I had three detectives on the case, but none of them gained a clew worth following. The evening mail two days ago brought Star- field’s demand for money, = ad I not heard from you I would most likely have acceded to his demands, Depend upon it, you shall lose nothing for the pluck and bravery you have shown,” ag sage after breakfast Mr. Shepland and Dan waiked down to the police station, hbk they found Sergeant Wood expecting them, ‘© Well, what of the prisoners?” asked the im- porter. ‘How do they take their arrest?” ‘“‘The man is sullen and says little,” replied the sergeant, ‘*The woman has broken down and cries nearly all the time,” *¢ And Starfield’s wounds?” “ The surgeon says they are trifling. keep quiet, that is all.” **Can we see them?” ony Which one first?” He must “Certainly. ‘* Starfield.” The sergeant led the way down a gloomy stone corridor. On either side were cells, and stopping before one of these, he unlocked the door and allowed them to enter. At first Mr. Shepland and Dan could see but little. As; however, their eyes became accus- tomed to the semi-darkness they beheld the ab- ductor of little Lucy lying upon a bench, in the corner, P ‘* Starfield!” said the importer, in a sbarp voice. The man jumped to his feet. ‘* You here?’ he exclaimed. want?” “ Nothing, Starfield,” returned Mr. Shepland, ‘“* But [’m sorry you are not a better man,” ‘Did you come all the way from New York to tell me that?” sneered the culprit. ** No; I came for my little girl.” ** T suppose she’s safe in your hands again? ‘She is—thanks to this young man here,” Starfield grated his teeth. — ‘¢] suppose you’re going to push my case just as hard as you can.” ‘* Have you a right to expect anything else?” ‘*No—only—” ** Only what?’ **-Vou’ll lose by it,” ‘‘ That’s an idle threat,” ) ** You only think so, Never mind; only if you do come to the conclusion to step back a little when I’m brought up, lei me know and I may tell you something that will benefit you,” and without another word the crafty plotter laid down azain and turned his face to the wall, ‘Dan, you’re pretty smart,” said Mr. Shep- land, when they were again out in the corridor; ¢ ate think there is anything in what he says ‘No, I don’t!” asserted Dan.. ‘It’s only a plan to escape his just punishment.” _ \ But for once the sharp lad was mistaken, Sergeant Wood led them to another section of re pores where the female prisoners were ept. i Mrs, Starfield was found in her cell, seated on the edge of a narrow bed. Her brown and y hair hung loose over her shoulders, and r eyes were red from weeping. “What do you Spy-Detective. ' ‘*‘ Mrs, Starfield,” began Mr. Shepland, kind- | The woman gave theimporter and Dan one ) look, and then buried her face in her hands, | “Its fifteen years since we met,” continued | Mr. Shepland. ‘‘ lm sorry to find thatin that : age you have taken no step toward a better e. | Mr, Shepland,” cried the woman, ‘don’t speak to me in that way! I can’t bear it! [ know l’ve done wrong! And poor Nicholas is hurt, too!” ‘‘ Not very much,” put in Dan, who could not help but pity the miserable woman, **No# On, I’m so glad! What—what is to se be done to him?” iH “He mu:t suffer the full penalty of the ii | law,” replied Mr. Shepland. ‘‘ But as for ‘ou—’ | ‘* Never mind me, Nicholas?” The importer shook his head. ‘He has done me too much injury,” he re- plied. ‘‘ Who was it who stole my first-boru — Won't you be easy cn my baby boy?” | if I = but—” **Oh, I know you would say—‘ Was the boy not returned?’ ‘l'rue, but so pinched and sickly that he could not live.” ** And you won’t spare Nicholas?” cried the ( woman, if **How can [? Every summer I go to Green- wood many times—for my wife lies there —ent \ on each visit I stand and contemplate the litiis i mound that marks the resting-place of my on'y i boy!” and Mr, Shepland’s breast heaved with i emotion as he spoke. 7 “‘Ob, spare my son!” again besought the wretched woman. “You ask too much,” “Then you shall know the truth!” and Mrs, ¢ Starfield’s eyes glowed with a feverish fire. ‘*Go and weep at that little mound and deco- ; rate it with flowers! My daughter’s child, not : yours, lies there!” Mr. Snepland grew pale as death. ‘* What do you mean?” he gasped. ‘Hal hal Ill have revenge! So you won't ae take pity on my son? Then I’m glad I tog ho, pity on yours!” ‘“ Woman, you are growing mad!” ‘Mad? Well,maybelam, Is it not enough to drive one mad? Yourobbed my son of bis sweetheart—” ‘*T didnot rob him, We both loved the same ff woman, and I was the onechosen. There was no underband work on my part, though your son tried Lerd to place me ina false position,” — ‘It’s a lie!” Mrs, Starfield, now, was white with rage, ‘‘ But, revenge is sweet!” , “* And my son——my baby boy?” Ae Le “Hal bal Knew the truth and shrink in hor- ip ror! A week after it was stolen it was left to a die in the snow and among the wolves that over- ie run the Grayville mountains!” if ~ Dan was so astonished he could hardly contain y himself. CHAPTER XX. ! . GOOD-BY TQ THE FOUNDLING, 7 Was he dreaming, or had he really heard those words? This was, the thought that ran through the boy’s brain like wildfire. “ You say you left that boy-baby among the Grayville mountains?” he gasped. ie hag turned to him with a startled air, a 66 Fens ‘‘ And in the winter time?’ continued the Hs foundling, pale with excitement. ‘ an pe “Dan, what—what—” began Mr. Shepland, hi in a strangely unnatural voice. : a **Mr, Shepland, J was found in the Grayville - es mountains one cold winter’s day, as I told you ‘i id old Father Masson, who took me in and car AG or me, Aryan ie “Then you must—you must be my own boy!” 3 “| What was the matter with Dan? The very ae world appeared to be going round and round, MF He yet to be standing on air. The light of | eee a joyiineffable filled his being. ** Father |” % It was only a single word, but to Dan how (pt sweet—how te viviog! “Thank God!” exclaimed Mr, Shepiland, fervidly, and, as the two embraced, Dan whis- j pered a strong ‘‘ God be thanked!” a Mrs, Starfield. was dumfounded. She had planned toinflict pain, aad the result was ex- actly the contrary, : s how came you to change the children?” de- } manded Mr, Shepland, after a few minutes of __ speechless happiness at the discovery and resto- ration, asa a n4 an Ohh
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. 6 **T’ll not tell you,” was Mrs, Starfield’s sharp and sullen reply. ** You shall!” returned Mr. Shepland. ‘“‘ OrI will make 5 ou suffer all that the law permits, and that is State’s Prison.” ‘*[ won't! Leave me!” she retorted, with vicious decision. ‘* Mrs, Starfield, we have you and yoar son in our power,” put in Dan. ‘** When you placed tbat boy-baby iv the snow to die, you committed acrinie agaivst me! Now, unless you explain ail t.e circumstances, I assure ) ou thes TH push the case azainst you to its utmost—run you to State's Prison, just.as sure as you live.” But, tue womau remained obdurate, and final- ly refused to talk at tll, Nevertheless, upun the following day, when her excitemebt bad subsided and she saw a robable term of }) nz 1. prisunment staring her in the face, she made a full confession. Three weeks before the abduction of Dan, her own daughter, a young widow, had become the mother of a boy. The daughter died, and tha boy, a sickly in- fant, was Jeft upon Mrs, Starfield’s bands. When Dan was stolen, Nicholas Starfield con- ceived the idea of changing the babies, and to this his motber consented, thinking thereby to further her own interests by some day having a rich nephew, whose parentage she would fully prove when the time was opportune. After the change was made, Nicholas Star- field thought be was being tracked, and to evade the offivers UW! the Jaw took himself and mother away from the city by rail, and then, at a coun- try town, biring a sleigh, he drove over the mountain-roads to Grayville and beyond. lt was on this memorable ride that Nicbolas Starfield had got rid of bis awkward burden by pitcuing the bundle that contuined baby Dan in- to the snow on the side of the road. How the child was found and cared for by old Father Masson the reader knows. The ride back to the hotel was a triumphal one for Dan. How new and strange everything appeared! He was not himself at all. There wasn) such fellow as Dan Dart, He bad found a father, and benceforth would be known as Dun Soepland—perbaps some would even go so fur as tocall him Daniel Sheplan4, or put a Mr, before his name, like Miss, no, Sister Lucy had insisted upon doing. Nor was the case less strange to Mr. Shepland. To put it plainly, be was joyfuily bewildered. The tears started in bis eyes, and the placid conchman, looking down through the glass, was astonished to discover his two fares in each Other’s arms! Of course little Lucy was astonished, She hardly understood what was told her at first, but gradually the truth dawned upon her, and then she went will with delight, and declared it was just the nicest thing in the world to have Das for a big brother. L ttle remains to be chronicled. A year bes panecd, The Starfields, Carver Brooks, and their com- panions in crime are al! in the State's Prison, serving sentences of various lengths, Dan is now studying for Columbia Collece, and thet he will graduate with high honors may be safely inferred, He of course lives with his father and sister in their mansion in East Highty-third street, After his course at college he is to travel for a year, end then become an equal partner in the establishment be once saved from robbery. But, though thus surrounded by all the ele- gance and Juxury money can bring, he often jooks back with a sense of pride to the rough -and stormy times when he:won the nickname of Plucky Dan. THE END. Beadle’s Half-Dime Library. BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS. ‘ga6 Captain Cactus, the Chaparral Cock. =» : 68 The Dandy of Dodge. 76 The Silver Sport. S$ Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow pti) qom-Cat and Pardy or, The Dead Set at Silver Olty. o naepy fana, the Dutch Vide q. ; 1f Bildad Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. 622 Texax Tom-Cat’s Triad ‘31 Tom Cat's Terrible Task. : 334 Tom-Cat’s Trinnphy or. Bleck Dan’s Great Combine. ets Cowboy Gid, the Cattle-Range wetective. Gat Warbling William, the Mountain Mountebank, 8S Jolly Jeremiahsy the Plains Detective. Ree ie Sam, the Lookout Scout. ao Lindy the Gypsy Spy. ¢ A Straple Sim, the jam Buster. ~ 1 are Mesxmeriat Sport; or, The Mystified Detective. Hab Kanna > ec ad ae cae ‘ s . m, the Croga-Cut Detective. 6 Satandane the Mustanger Detective, Bi GEORGE C. JENKS, 445 Git Thar Owney the, Unknown. 492 Git Thar Owney’s Pledge. 5618 The Demon Doctor. 581 Double-Curve Dan, tne Pitcher Detective. 5698 Flute, the Sinyver Detective. 608 The Pitcher Detective’s Fotl; or, Dan’e Double Play. 616 The Ocean Detectives or. The Last Cruise of the Black Bear, 681 The Pitcher Detective’a Toughest Tussle. 786 Larry the Thoroughbred; or, Beaten on Every Side BY WILLIA .kR PYSTER , 190 Dandy Darkes or, The Tigers of High Pine. 210 kero Frauk; or, Dardy Darke’s Go-Down Pard* BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, 11 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes ofa Bowery Girl, 76 Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. ZY Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 258 Joe Kuck of Angels and His Buy Pard. 4147 New York Nat. A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham. 453 New England Nick; or, The Fortunes of a Foundling, 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince. 498 Taos Ted, toe Arizonn Sport. 510 Cool Colorado, the Half-Breed Detective. 518 Cool Colorado in New York. BY J0. PIERCE, 897 Bob o’ the Bowery 3 or, The Prince of Mulberry Street, 415 The Vagabond Detective; or, Bowery Bob's Boom, 452 Hotspur Bob, the Street-Buy Detective. 460 The Lawyer’s Shadow; or Luke’s Legacy, 472 Jaunty Joe, thy Young Horse-King. 494 surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective. 604 Five Pointe Phil. 609 Jack J agmers, the Butcher Boy Detective, 516 Tartar Tim; or, Five Points Phil’s Menagerie, 6526 North River Nat, the Pier Detective, 3 588 Wrestling Rex, the Pride ofthe Sixth Ward, 541 Jeff Flicker, the Stable Boy Detective. 651 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow. 559 Harlem Jack, the Office Boy Detective. 569 Brooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook Detective. 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter. 588 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector, HOR Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer. 614 Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s Aid. 628 Buck Bumblebee, the Harlem Hummer. 689 Sunrise Saul, the Express-Train Ferret. 649 Gamin Bob, the Bowery Badger; or, Scooping a Slippery Set, 658 Sky-Rocket Rob, the Life-Saver. 658 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator, 694 Spicy Sim, the Only One of His Kind 706 Tom Thiatle, the Road-Honse Detective. Z17 Mosquito Jack, the Hustler Gamin. 726 Dennis Dulf the Brown Sport’s Kid. 744 Dick of the Docks, the Night-W atch. BY OLL COOMES. 5 Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew. 18 The Dumb Spy. : 27 Antelope Abe, the Boy Goide. 81 Keen-Kunife, the Prince of the Prairies. 41 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. 58 The Border King’ or, The Secret Foe. Z1 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. 74 Hawk-eye Uarry the Young Trapper Ranger, 88 Rollo, the ery anger. 184 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman, 148 Secar-Face Saul, the Sifent Hunter. . 146 Silver Star, the Boy Knight. 158 Eagle Kit, the Boy Demon. 168 Little ‘Pexna, the Young Mustanger 178 Old Solitary, the Hermit Trapper. 182 Littie Murricane, the Boy Captain, 202 Prospect Pete; or, The Young Outlaw Hunters, 208 The Boy Wercules: or, The Prairie Tramps. 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. ; 224 Dashing Dicks or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger, 248 The Diszuised Guides or, Wild Raven, the Ranger, 260 DPare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 2T2 Minkskin Mikey the Boy Sharpshooter. \ 290 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spy. 800 'The Sky Demon}; or, Rainbolt, the Ranger, 854 Whip-King Joe, the Bow Ranchero, 409 hercules; vr, Dick, the Boy Ranger. 41% Webtoot Mose, the Tramp Detective. 422 Baby Sam, the Boy Giant of the Yellowstone, 444 Little Buckaktin, the Youne Prairie Centaur, 457 Wingedfoot Fred; or, Old Polar Saul. 4638 Pamarac ‘Tom, the Mg Trapper Boy. 478 Old Tom Rattler, the Red River Epidemic. 482 Stonewull Bob, the Boy Tromn, 562 Blundering Baal, the Nermit Boy Trapper. G52 Don Barr, the Plains Freelance, 661 Old Kit Bandy’s Deliverance. 670 Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. 680 Dauntless Dan the Freelance, or Old Kit Bandy in Arcadia, BY JOSEPH E. BADGER, JR. * 2 Yellowstone Juck; or, The Trapper. 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaw’s Retreat, 65 Miurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard. 119 Mastene Sam 3 or, The King of the Plains. 186 Night-Linwk Kit; or, The Daughter of the Ranch, 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. ‘r, Davy Crockett’s Crooked Trail. By Ensign ©. D. Warren. nat 298 Red Claw, the One-Eyed Trapper; or, The Maid ot the Clif. By Captain Comstock. el BIT Peacock Pete, the Lively Lad from Leadville. By Liea- tenant Alfred Thorne. B28 The Sky Detectives or, A Boy's Fight for Lileand Honor. By Maior Mickey Free. 850 Red Ralph, the River Rovers or, The Brother’s Re- venge. By Ned Buntline. 265 Baltimere Ben the Boothlack Detective. By A. P. Morris. 874 Gold-Duat Toms or, Ben’® Double Match. By G H, Morse, B76 California Joe’s Firat Trail, By Colonel Thomes 418 Lille Rembabell, the CUT Climber. By F. 8. W ombahell, the mber. . S. Winthrop. 475 The Rlack Ship. By JohnS Marsie. kde 484 Comanche Dick and His Three Invinetblea. By Henry J. Thomas. ‘ 5S2 'The Cowboy Puke. By Edwin Brooke Forrest. ¢ G52 Artel the Athlete. By David Droid, BS WI Waters, the Bov Ferret. By H. Enton. aor A ale Deed rd nae Pali rank By Gerald Carlton. averick Mowe, tne Arizona Detective; or. iz Urkos Pats. By Will Lisenbee. Arey oe ee a ks a 746 Quiet Sack, the Secret Service Spy; or, Too Much for Red_ ary. By Dan Dunning, (of the Secret Service Corps) | } A New Issue Every Tuesday. ~ The Half.Dime Library is for eale by all newadoalers, five cents per 2opy, or sent by mail on receipt ot six cents each “hl BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, = 98 William Street, New York |
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_——— a ton Danse Feet nays . a Pie Se BY EVWARD L. WHEELER, Deadwood Bick Novela. 1 Deadwood Bick, the ’mnce ot the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’s Detinuces or, Vouble Daggers. Ss haere prom syd rnin ye oe Butta, Ben 5 adwoo € x Castle, 42 Deadwood Mhick'’s tionunza; o , The Phantom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick In Dunger; or, Owsos Oll. &2 Deadwood Bick’s Magpies; or, The Purds of Flood Bar. 78 Deadwood Vick on & Och; or, Calamity ¢ me, the Heroine Bid a ecar| ioe Se iene ins or, Cordurey Cuarlie, dw " ved ible, 204 Deadwood Dick's Device; or, the Double Cross Sign. 209 Deadwood Dick na Detective. be Pondwoed Biek’s aay or, The af te Gulch Ghost. . endwoo ek’s Tor “macy or, Blonds Bill. 149 Deadwood Dick's Vig Strikes ot’A Gane of Gold. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick's Dreams or, The Rivals of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or. The Black Hill’s Jezebel. mrt qeescers ey noo 3 vit tee | Jane’s Adventure. u ; ch’s Dead ° 221 Deadwood Dick's Tenth-l ant, 282 Gold-Dust Diek, A Romance of Rough: and Toughs, ate poctverd pews Prciar hcg 8 ome te 809 Dealwood Dick’ Peal: or, The Gola Brick of Oregon. $3) poadweed Deka Dozeny or, The Fakir of Phantom Flats Prt! poaavees Dek « Ducata: or, Days in the Diggings. rtf ey flee hekes eee or, The Terrible Vendetta. & “k m. 405 Deadwood Dick In Bena City. 410 Deadwood Dick’s Diamonia. 421 Deadwood Dick in New York} or, A “Cute Case.” 480 Deadwood Dick’s Dust: or, The Chained Hand. $25 Beeaeecd Bick: gel. agrees om te » ‘ ar r.’*, enhance, $58 Deadwood Dick: ris Full Hand. 459 Deadwood Dick, drs, Ble Round-Up 485 Deadwood Dick Jr.« Racket at Claim 10, 233 pend weed picks, 5 ete seers or, Bozeman Bill. endwoo Mek r.’a betective. 4951 Deadwood Mek. ar. in A ter tae 494 Deadwood Bick, Jr.%«, Compact, 496 Deadwood Dick dr.’s. Inheritance, 600 Dendwood Dick, 4tr.’s Pigyings, 6408 Deadwood Diek, dr.’ Jreliverance, 515 Deadwoot Dick Jr's Vrotegree, oe poneweee tee 5 ng Three. 2 exadwood Dick, Jdr.ts, Donge 554 Deadwood Dick, 3r°, Death ese 539 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Texas. 54 Deadweod Dick, Jr., the Wild West Vidoog 549 Dendwooa Dick, Jr., on file Mettle. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Gotham, 561 Dendwood Dick, Jr., In Boston, 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Philadetphta, 572 Deadwood Dick, 2r., hy Chicago. G7S Dendwood itck, Jr... Afloat. &84 Deadwood Dick. or.. in Denver. 690 Deadwood Dick. dr.t«, Decree, aaa Lan: hp Doe ores “e Pesinchnts pers ‘ end wood ex, dr., at Cone sland, 696 Deadwood Bick, Irn, Lends itle Las. 612 Dendwood Dick, Jr.. in Detrott. GL8 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Cinetnnntl. €24 Dendwood Dick. Jr., in Nevada. GBO Deadwoot Pick, Jr., fu No Mau’« Land, G86 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Atter the Queer. 642 Deadwood Mek Jr.. lu Kulfalo. 648 Deadwood Dick, Drs, Chase Across the Continent Gab Rendvsed teks Behe teenie tee ’ | » earn ‘nae. 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Yack In the Mines. 672 Deudwood Wiek, dr., tv Purangot or. Gathered In.” oi Beak toes are are prcewer 7s) Found a Fortune. “ad Dick, dra, Dazzle, G90 Dendwool Dick, Jr.'s, Nollars. 695 Deadwoot lick. Jr., at Danger Divide. TO0 Deadwoo! Pick, Ir.ts, Prop. TO4 Deadwood Mick, Jr., at JInek-Pot. 710 Deadwoo! Iiek Jr, in San Francisco, 716 Dendwood Hick, Jris Still Hunt. 722 Deadwool Dick, Jr.’s Dominoes. T2ZS Deadwood Eick, Jr, Diseutac, 734 Dendwood Pick. drs, Bouble Deal. 740 Dendwoot Hick Jr.’a, Deathwatch. T47 Deadwood Vick, @r.’s, Poublet. 752 Deadwood Utek, Jr’, Deathblow. T5S Deadwood Nick, &r.’s, Peaperate Stralt. 764 Deadwood Mel, Jrla, Lone Wand, TT Deadwood Dick, Jr.’« Neteat. 776 Deadwood Bick, Jr.’a, Reavrrection, 7S2 Deadwoon Dick. Jr’a Park Daya. 7ST Deadwood ‘Nek Jr., Defied. Z TZ Deadwood Mek, Irs, Double Device, T9T Dendwood Dick, Jr’.s, Pespernte Venture, ? 802 Deadwood Pick, Jr’, Diamond Dice, F 807 Deadwood Dick Jr.’a, Royal Flush, 812 Deadwood Dick, dra Mend-off, 816 Deadwood Dick, dr.’a, Rival. 822 Deadwoo'! Dick, Jr.’«, Boom, 828 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ Scoop, - S84 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’*, Proxy. 840 Deadwood Vick, dr’, Clutch 845 Deadwool Dick, Irs, Mich Morse, 852 Deadwood Vick Jr., at Devils Guich. 858 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Reath-Nole Muatle, 868 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s Rombshell. STO Deadwood Dick, 4r.. ln Mexico. S76 Deadwood Dick, Jr’a Decoy Puck. BS2 Deadwood Dick, Jr. tn Silver Pocket. SPL Deadwood Bick, Jr %s, Dend. Sure Gume, S98 Deadwood Pick, ¥r8, Donble Drive. 904 Dendwood Vick, Jr’a Trade-Mark. 910 Deatwoot Pick, Jr,, at. Tin-Ten. . 916 Deadwood Dick, Jrls Donhble-Decker.* 928 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Bellarville. 984 Deatwood Mek, Jr.. at Flush Flata 940 Dendwood Mick, Jr.%s Shake-nn, \ 946 Deadwood Dick, 4r.’«, Double Props 95L Deadwood Pick, Jr.'s, Right Rower. YT Deadwond Dick, Jr.'s. Ten-Strike. 965 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Gold-Dust. BY WILLIA’ R. EYSTER, L190 Dandy Darke? or. The Tigers of High Pine. 210 Fare vous ef: ote Go-Down Pards uatler Rogue-Ont 'e M88 Poker Pete's Double Dodie. R51 The Tie-To Bport 3 or, High Hustling at Sinners’ Flat. the Rpo / | weetedrieietete? _ BEADLE HALF- DIME+ LIBRARY: Published Every Tuesday. Hach Issue Complet2 ant Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight: M4 Rosebud Kov on Rand: or, liyl, the Gir! Miner. SS osebud Rob's Keap carance; or, Photograph Phil, 12t Rosebud Rob's ¢ Selthkeas or, Cinnamon Chip. RTT Denver Doli, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee's Surround | 281 Denver Doll's Victory; or. Shuli and Crosabones, 255 Denver Doll'« Decoy 5 or. Little Bill’s Bonanza. 296 Deuver Doli’s Drtit; or. The Road Queen. BES reeks dling the teotdeGisrt hererg or, The Ufo Lottery. STZ Yreka sine Prize; or. The Wolves «t Wake Up, S55 Yreka Jim's dokery; or, The Rivals of Red Nise, 689 Yreka dlin’a New Lote or, Bicycle Ben. SYA Yreka Jim of Yule Dam, 209 Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective: or, Dot Leetle Game, 2185 i ritz to the Front or, The Ventriloquist Hunter 244 Serra “am, tho Frentier Ferret: or, A sister's Devotion, 248 Sicrra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, 258 Sterra Saas/e Purdy or, The Angel ot Big Vista, | 25S Sierra Saru's Sevens or, The Stolen Bride. 6B4 Kangaroo Kits er, The Mysterious Miner. 889 Kangaroo hit’s Racket: or, ibe Pride of PlayedeOut, bY Deaths Face, Detective: or, Lily in New York. 69 The Roy Betect! vez or, Goid | ifle, the Sharpehvoter, 96 Watch-Wye, the Detective: or, Ar be aud Angels. 117 Gilt-Kdged Blek, the Sp rt Detective 145 Cuptutn Ferret. the New York Detective. 168 New Vork Nell, the Boy-Girl Detictive. 226 The Areb Beteotives or, Suoozer, the Boy Sharp. S01 Turk the Boy Ferret. - B25 Kelley, ienas & Ca., the Detectives of Philadelphia, B48 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective, 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Wateh Detective. 416 iMgh Wat Marry, the Base Bull Detective. 426 Sam Slabsides, tie Begear-Boy Detective. 454 Jim Beak and Val, Private Detectives. 86 Cloven Hoof, the Bulfalo Demon; or, Tue Border Vultures, ~ B2 Bob Woolt's or, The Girl Dead-Shot 45 Old Avaianche?: or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand. 53 Jim Bludsoe. Jr., the Boy Phenix. 6t Muckhorn BIE or. The Red Rife Team 92 Cunada Chet or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 118 Jaek HWovle the Young Speculntor, 25 Bonanza HALL, Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger. 8 Bose Bob the King of Boothlacks, 41 Selid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows, 7 Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scampa. 181 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or Lady. Lily’s Love. 2EE Apallo BIT, the Trail Tornado; or, Rowdy Kate. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley. 2T7TB Sambo Joe, tie Poy Paired: or, The Rival Leirs, $9 A No, 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ‘Liza Jane, the Gir! Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport. B80 Little Gulck-#hots or, The Dead Puce of Daggeraville, B58 Firnt-Class Pred, she Gent trom Gopher. 87% Nabob Ned or, The Secret of Slab City, BS2 Cool Kitt. the Kireg of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeance. 438 Santa Fe Sol}, the Slasher; or, A Son's Vengeunce. 456 Renlakin Sam, the Srarkier: or The Tribunal of Ten. 918 Kit Keith. t ¢ Reve ue Spotter, 922 Sol Kharpe, the New York Night-Hawk, 948 Old Mayseed Among Bunco Men, : BY J. ¢. COWDRICK 490 Broudway Billy. the Doothlack Bravo. 514 Broadway Milly’# Boodle; or, Cleating aStranze Case 586 Broadway Billy's *Dbimkilty.” 557 Broadway Billy's Peath Racket. 579 Broadway Billy’s Surprise Party. 605 Broadway Billy; or, Tle Boy Detective’s Big Inning, 628 Broadway Billy’ Deed Acts or, The League of Seven. 669 Broadway Billy Abroad; or, The Meotblack in Frisco. 675 Broadway Billy’s Kort; or, Beating San Francisco's Finest. 687 Breadway Billy in Clover. : 5 696 Broadway Billy tn Texas; or, The River Rustlers, 708 Bronaway Billy’s Drend. TIL Brondway Billy at Fanta Fes or, The Clever Deal, 20 Broedway Billy’s Vall Hands or, The Gamin Detective, 85 Broadway Billy's Ifustness, Me Broadway Hilly’« Curionsa Case. > i ek rad ae pre ~~ aa 8 2 Brondway Hilly tu Denver. 2 Rroadway Billy's Dargaing or, The Three Detective, 9 Broadway Billy, the Retriever Detective. 5 Broadway Rilly*~ Shadow Chase. 8 Broadway, Billy'’« Keagles: or, The Trio’s Quest. 786 Brondway BUNs'« ‘ean or, The Combine’s Big Pull. 790 Broadway Billy’s Virigades or, The Dead Alive. 796 Broadway Hilly « Creer Bequest. 800 Broadway Billy | affied, . 805 Broadway Hilly’s Stenal Scoop. 810 Rrondway BRilly’s Wipe Out. S15 Broadway Rilly’+ Venk Kacket S21 Broadway Billy’« Hluff. $26 Lroudway lily Among Jersey Thugs. S88 Rroadway Billy’x Paid. 889 Broadway Hilly’s Big Room, 844 Brondway Billy's Big Bulge. 849 Broadway Billy’ ®100,000 Snap, 856 Brondway Rilly'’s Blinds o, The Bootblack Stowaway. S62 Brondway Filly in london. . 8458S Broadway Hilly &hudows London Slume. 874 Broadway Pilly’« Prench Game, S80 broadway Billy and the Komb-Throwers. B60 Milver-Marh, the Man of Myvrers; or, The Gaiden Keys. BAY Shasta, the Gold King? or, For Seven Years Deaa, 420 The Pelective’s Aomesees or, A Boy Without « Name, 424 Cibata Jonn; or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar. 439 Sandy Sam, the Street Scout, > 467 Diaco Dan, the Daisy Dude 606 Redlight Nalph_ the Prince of the Road, 524 The Engineer Deteettve: er, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve 548 Mart, the Nicht Exprese Detective. B71 Ate-Line Lake the Young Engineer; or, The Double Case 52 Vhe Boy Pinkerten: or, Ronning the Rasenls Out. 615 Fighting Marry the Chief of Chained Cyclone. 640 Vaveback Heth, the Centanr of the Circle. G47 Tynewrlter Filly, the Merchant’s Ward. 659 Weenlight Mormrn the * Pizenest ? Man of Ante Bac. SS7 Battery Tob. the Bock Detective, $94 Arizona Dick*’« Vi ipe-Out, 900 Jumping dack'’s Jubilee. HOG Safety Sant, the Cycle Sport. $12 Train Roy Triat’s Mot Hustle, ! P18 The Tramny Pock-Boy. 924 Bir Roots Bob, the Fire-Laddte. 80 Kuatler Ralph, the Poy Spotter. $85 The Ex-New-hoy Petcctive’s Chum. 941 The Rowling Green Petective’s Drop. 944 Cowboy Chartle’« Double. 9147 The Bowery W restler; or, The Butcher-Boy’s Backer, 958 Paddy's Trump Card; or, Silver Sallie, the Girl Sport. 960 The Brondwav Sport: or, Fiver Fred’s Clear Case, 967 £1000 Reward; or, The Rival Reporters’ Sleek Scoop, . BY NAROLD PAYNE. 848 Dan, the River Sport: or. Foiling the Frisco Sh Row: ‘ry Ren th Chinntads, wt the Fuat-xlde Detective, ll Bewery Ro 52 The Cirens Detective. BUFFALO BILL NOVELS. BY COL. PHENTISS INGRAHAM, 964 Buffalo Bill's Decoys or, The Arizona Crack Sh 95s ButYaio Bill’. Muazeppa-Chase. 945 Bulfalo isilf's Snap-Shot ¢ or, Wild Kid’s Texan Tally 942 Buliato Bis Lough Tuasle, 986 Butfalo Kills Boy Maxcoty or, Joe Jarvis’ Hold-up. 929 Ruffalo Bills Crack-shot Pard. 650 Buffalo Biil’s Boy Pard; or, butterfly Billy. 216 Lisen Mill, the Prince ot the Reins. 222 Bison Lil's Cluet or. Grit, the Bravo Sport BY LUFFALO BILL, 8 Kansan King; or, The Red Right Hand. 19 The Phantom py: or, ‘lhe Pilot of the Prairie, 55 peadly-Eye, the Unknown Sccut, or, The Banded Brotherhood ‘68 Border Robin Woods or, The Praine Rover. 158 Faney Freak of Colorado; or, The Trapper’s Trost. BY CAPT. ALFRED B. TAYLOR, U. §. A. IDL Buffalo Thtty. the Dey Bullwhacker. 194 Buffalo Dilla Nets or. The Gambler Guide. BY COLONEL PRENTiSS INGRAHAM, 982 New York Nat's “$y or, Ex-Ferret Sykes’ Bold Game- $26 New York Nut and the Traitor Ferret. 920 New York Nat Trapped. 914 New York Nat's Three of a Kind. 908 New York Navs Double. 902 New York Nat’s in Oolorado. 896 New York Nat in Gold Nugget Camp. S59 New York Nuat’s Deadly heal, SSB New York Nat’s Creoh-Chase, S77 New York Nuat’s Trump Card. STt New York Nut and the Grave Ghouls. S65 New York Nat's Mashed Murcot. 859 New York Nat, the Gamin Detective. 858 Diek Doom’s kidnapper Knock-Out. 847 Dick tioom'’s ‘Ten Strike, 842 Dick Deom’s Flush Hand, 72 Dick Doom’s LPeath-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny.. Z7T Dick Doom’s Destinys or, The River Biackleg’s Terror, TRA Dick Doom; or. |e Sharps and Sherks ot New York, 788 Dick Doom In Boston: or, A Man of Many Masks, 798 Dick Voom tn Chicago. 798 Dick Doom tn the Viild Weert. 808 Dick Doom’s Clean &weep; or, Five Links ina Clue , 8O8 Dick Poom’s Peath Clue. SI8 Dick Doom’s Diamond Peal. 819 Dick Doom’s Girl Mascot, S29 Dick Doom'’s Shacew Hunt. ; 885 Dick Doom’s Big heul. 749 Dashing CharUe: or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trait. 756 Dashing Churlic’s Destinys or, The Renegade’s Captives 760 Dashine; Charlie’ Pawnee bard, 766 Dashter Charlte, the Rescuer. 497 Back Taylor, Ring ot the Cuwboys. THT Buck Taylor, the ( onanche’s Captive, 748 Ruck Taylors Boye or, The Red Riders ot the Rio Grande, 560 Pawnee Rill, the Prairie Shadower. TIS Pawnee Btls or, Carl, the Mad Cowboy, 719 Pawnee Hills Pledger or, | be Cowboy's Doom. 25 Pawnee Bilt: or, Daring Dick. 692 Redterws Curtons Case: o, The Rival Sharps, 697% Kedtern at Reyil’a Ranehy or, The Sharp from Texas, 702 RNedterws Ulgh ands cr, Blue Jacket. ‘ TOT Redfern’s Last " rail: cr, The Red Sombrero Rangers. And Vitty Others. BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS. B89 Tom-Cat and Pardy or, The Dead Set at Silver City. 622 Tom-COat’s Triad; or, Whe Afinir at Tombstone, 681 Tom Cat’« Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective, s -Cat’s Tri hg or, Black Dan’s Great Combine. ou axacoe venti Chapaxye) Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike- 688 Saffron Sol, the Man With » Shadow 601 Happy Hana, the Dutch Videce; or, Hot Timesat Round-Up GtL Bildad Ge ! 1y y py: or, The Mystery of Two Lives, ; Bache inthe, Signet Buster: or, For Big Stakes, BY T. 3. FLANAGAN. 909 Midahbipmah Dare, the Pirate Catcher. 925 The Youne Cowboy Captain. sf 988 The Two Midshipmen; or, The Corsair-Chaser’s First Cruise. 949 The Three Lieutenants! 959 The Mascot Middy : er. The Four Commanders. 966 Fighting Jack Shubrick. NEW ISSUES. 975 Buffalo EVs Hie hotag or, The Buckskin Bravo's Lone Trail, By Col. P, Ing-ahaiwn. 976 The Boy-Spy Detective, » By Ned St. Meyer. O77 Deadwood Bick, Jr.’s, Death-Doom, By Bdward L, Y hheeler, JUST ISSUED. 968 Ruffalo BMW« Rush Ride; or, Sure-Shot, the Migh-Pycr. By Col. Prentiss Ir gratiam. . 969 The Girl Sport-Shadower$ or, Clark's Close Shave. hy Wm, RK Eyster. 4 970 Ahoy Abe, the Dock- harps or, The Parson Sport's Mys- terious Mission, By Jo Pleree. : - 9T1 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Oaths or, The Clown of Paradive C mp Py Edwerd L. Wheeler, ; 972 Fighting Jack’s Middles; or, Dandy Dick’s Dash. Py PP ‘ 978 Bantam Bill . the Corker-Ferret; or, Dunk Duncan's Danble Drop. By J, C, Cowdrick. 974 Old Sant’« Dark Deal; or, Miner Mat’s Ir,n Grip. By Win, Perry Brown. A New lssue Every Tuesday. The Half-Dime Library 1s for sale by all newsdeslers, five gents per sopy, or sent by mail on receipt o! six cents each. BEADLE AND ADAMA, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York