Beadle's Half Dime Library (no. 987) (1896 06 23)
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hb mers | | == ao ‘S b WW (nest! tnt al SO LI Copyrighted 1896, . SAa= tt it. Ltt Letty » SY by BEADLE AND ADAMS, » « S WRIA Vinge WM CLOUT Entered as Second Class Matter at the New York, N. Y , Post Office. No. 987 are “tal a ea! ferss> | ND ADAMS. EA YOI ADL NEW BE aT BY STR EE Ww W 0. 92 ED N PUBLISH $2.50 a Year. the Wie «Fall, KLY ILLIAM ind J ive J OF E OTHER KIND OF VERMIN!” ER THIEVES, OR 80M WHAT Is Ir? RIV R SURE! P, FE “ MISCHIEF U
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Paul, the Whart-rat ; THE DETECTIVE’S BLIND. The Story of the Seagrief Racket. BY JO PIERCE, AUTHOR OF “BOB O’ THE BOWERY,” ‘‘ FIVE POINTS PHIL,” ‘‘ BUCK BUMBLEBEE,” ‘“* JAUNTY JOE,” ETC., ETC. “CHAPTER I. A MAN IN THE WAY. ‘* Am I safe, or is my life in danger?” Isaac Ogden looked around the room as he spoke, and his manner was that of one whuse judgment answercd his own question in the negative. There was the light in his eyes which only fear can bring, and it seemed as if he thought a foe might spring up at any point, There was a knock at the door, and he hastened to open itin response, A young girl stood out- side. He addressed her hurriedly. ‘* What luck, Amy?” ‘*T’ve got ’em all, sir,” she replied. ‘* Bring them in!” She entered, and from under her apron came apackage. His eyes brightened at sigitt of her burden. He took it quickly and put it away. ** Go, now,” he directed; ‘‘don’t let them see you here. And, Amy, you'll be discreet, won’t ou? Don’t let them kuow of this matter, at ail. t would be bad for you, and there’s no know- ing what it would do for mo—it might be the ruin of me—if I am not ruined, already.” Ogden sighed as he spoke, and the gir] looked sympathetic;-but did not pause to express her feelings. She had her directions, and obeyed without delay, and he was left alone, Undoing the package, a door-bolt and a screw- driver came to view. He proceeded at once to affix the bolt upon the door; but, as a good and strong lock was upon the door already, it was evident that he sought to make entrance doubly difficult, for hisown safety. ‘They can’t get in unknown to me,” he solilo- quized. ‘‘Of course there is no way to guard against a forcible assault, but that I must risk until I can make arrangements to get out wholly. Providence hasten the day!—this suspense is wearitie upon me more than I feel able to en- dure, I must get away!” The hour was past supper-time, and as he had no further need to go out of the room, heallowed the fastenings to remain and sat down. ‘He fell into deep thought and remained in that condition for a long while. Whatever was troubling him it weighed heavily upon his spir- its, and the passage of time brought no relief, Outside his little room two persons were at ' the same time engaged in conversation. They were Irad Russell and his wife, Anna, They were the keepers of the house, and distant rela- tives of Mr. Ogden. “Tt must be done to-night!” declared Irad. ‘‘This thing makes me nervous!” confessed the wife, “Tt will soon be over. Think of what we have to gain.” 3 “Shall we gain it?” ‘(Can the cld man beat us both out? No, no; such a possibility is not to be thought of, wo- man - ‘ “*Tsaac may have taken some one into his con~ fidence, for I feel sure he suspects something.” ‘* Nonsense! You should not let such ideas et into your mind. You harp on the subject, eat I’m ‘sure it is only the old man’s increasing eccentricity which you have noticed. He is breaking down fast, and if we dared to wait a bit we should not need to resort to extreme measures, Wait we cannot, however, since he has such plans, in his head, and the blow will have to be struck this night. When it is done— think-of that!”” Mrs, Russell shivered, ; : **T wish I could avoid thinking of it!” ** Bab! don’t be weak!” : “ bobo do you believe in judgment coming to rsons Pe No, I don’t and you don’t, either—at least if youdo you are not to say so, I don’t wan any croaking, woman. See? This must go ough—it must!” d 2 Outside the house the'rumble of city life was to be heard in the pause whieh followed. The bustle of day life was in a great, de done, but the city never slept, and its echoes came like a deadened reminder of the fact that there Paul, the Wharf-rat. were others who lived and had an interest in things which, in the opinion of a guilty person, concerned only himself, Anna Russell thought of this; she remem- bered the great reputation which the police of New York had acquired, and dreaded the hour when she would have cause to fear the very i of a police eye and touch of a police hand, Crime makes cowards of the novice in sin. Amy Dunn had gone to the kitchen a leay- ing Mr, Ogden, She was the most humble mem- ber of the household; in fact, she occupied a position more than negative, if such a thing could be. She had come into the family as an object of charity, as all outsiders understood, but the Russells never had been at any loss on her account, From the first she had been a drudge, and had been made to more than pay her way. She was, however, not credited with the usual amount of common sense, and against this ver- dict never had rebelled. Patiently she had toiled on, and taken whatever of slight and in- justice had been put upon her, In truth, she was not of brilliant intellect, and when she had reached her part of the house, cn this occasion, she only meditated dully on the fear she knew was in old Isaac Ogden’s mind, ‘* T would go away, if I was him,” she thought, mechanically. This was all the attention she gave to the matter; then she did the work which was to wind up the day, and retired for the night. Her room was directly over that occupied, b Ogden. Once there, she could hear faint sounds which showed that he was moving around, but she lay down and was soon asleep. Time passed. Finally she awoke, There was upon her the impression that she had been aroused by some unusual circumstance, but what it was she could not tell. The whole house seemed to be quiet enough, and footsteps on the ‘sidewalk outside were distinctly audible. ‘“‘T hope it ain’t ’most mornin’,” she mur- _mured, with the natural ideas of one whose life was that of a drudge. She turned over to go to sleep again, but at that moment voices sounded in the room below. ‘* Ho’s up late,” she remarked, Then came a cry from below which made her sit up suddenly in bed. ‘* Help !” the voice had implored. Her eyes grew large and wondering. ‘¢ What’s that?” she exclaimed. ‘Can burg- lars have got into his room, in spite of his bolts and bars?” Possibly her idea was correct, for she could hear a stir below as if some one was engaged in a struggle, and it dawned upon her that she ought to do something about it. She slipped out of bed and hurriedly threw on her wrapper. Thus equipped she left her room and started down the stairs, Russell and his wife slept near the door, and to their room she went at once. The door was ajar, and she pronounced the name of her mas- ter. Noreply came, Again she called, but with like result. Then she walked in boldly. Dark as it was it did not take her long to make one discovery—the Russells were not in bed, ‘‘T guess they’ve gone to help him, already,” she decided. She lacked the element of cowardice—perhaps of due caution—and went on to Ogden’s room. ‘When she reached if she saw a light under the door, but nothing more of interest. She put out her hand to touch and turn the knob, but at that moment she heard voices within, In the first se recognized Irad’s peculiar tones, and in the reply, that of Irad’s wife. ‘* What are you whimpering about, woman?” ‘This is a deed which will haunt me!” “The older you grow the more foolish you get. You make me very tired.. What have we done? Simply acted to save ourselves, as any sensible persons would. Now, don’t get to act- ing the goody-goody, for it don’t go in practical life, - Prad, I shall be afraid of Isaac Ogden’s ‘© Will you let up on such fool talk? I won't hear any more of it, and if you don’t stop [ll serve you as we served him,” Amy heard and murmured: ‘‘T wonder how they’ve served him? I'll ask him in the mornin’.” Conversation continued inside, ‘* We must leave no signs behind us,” pursued Irad. ‘See toit that you efface all, and when Tam gone, this is the task which must occupy you, ? Nite yen. ‘I hope nobody heard him call.” : “Don’t worry. At this hour folks are not lying awake to listen for such things, and then, “* again, there is nobody near at hand,’ aes ‘*There’s Amy.” ** T had forgotten her.” - Irad spoke thoughtfully, and then added: “I'll go and take a look into her room, I don’t doubt that she’s sleeping the sleep of the just and the foolish, but it will dono harm to make sure. Tl go and look.” His footsteps sounded, and Amy was not stupid enough to remain and court certain discovery. Not yet did she realize what might have been done below, but she held Irad Russell in awe, and was not anxious to have the weight of his anger visited upon her, She promptly retreated and made her way back to her own room, Irad’s step soon sounded at the door. He paused and listened, but the silence which pre- vailed did not put his fears at rest. He entered. Amy lay very quiet, She had a vague notion that she ought to follow a certain line of con- duct which would deceive him, but was not sure how todo it. Asa result she did what was the best thing to do under the circumstances and simply kept still. Russell’s anxiety was evinced still further by his next move, He found and lighted the lamp, and then advanced close to her and looked down at her face. _ By that time she was very much alarmed, and it was a wonder the fear was not expressed in her face, but Irad did not see anything to worry him. After along survey he turned away with the muttered comment: ‘** The fool is the same as dead!” It was a natural decision, yet the time might yet come when he would learn that even the supposed sleep of a ‘‘ fool” might have elements of danger. He went out, and once more Amy was left alone, She had no intention of investigating the state of affairs dcwn-stairs, however. Her fear of Irad was too great for that; so she lay still, yet not without natural curiosity, “T'wonder what it is they are so anxious to keep from me?’ she thought. ‘Isaac Ogden is afraid of them, I wonder if they have done him any harm? I'll ask him in the morning.” he night passed without further experience of moment, as far as Amy knew, and in the morning she went down to her usual duties, Contrary to his custom Irad was up, and sent a sharp and not over-friendly glence at the girl — when she came in, but her immature mind was as much at ease as if nothing out of the common — order of events had occurred, and she gave him no alarm. Breakfast was popeeet and eaten, but Isaac Ogden did not make his appearance to take part init. This was not an unheard of thing, for he was often late in rising, but there was a new de- parture ere the meal wasover. — ‘‘Old Ogden must be about in Albany, now,” remarked [rad, suddenly, Mrs. Russell gave a nervous start, ‘¢ Yes,” she agreed, feebly. Te “Hell get tired of that bum city before he’s been there a month,” added Irad. Mrs, Russell moved uneasily. e “‘T hope he'll get along well with his busi-— ness,” It was clear that Irad’s wife was expected to do her part te keep up this conversation, but she failed to do so, and her liege-lord glared at her reprovingly and angrily, It’s a nico trip to go up on the Albany boat,” resumed Russell, perseveringly. ‘‘I wish I could have gone with the old fellow, Yes, he must be ‘in Albany, now.” -“ Probably,” } The wife managed to put in her word, at last, and Irad looked a little more pleased, but as far as present things were concerned, all this by- play was thrown away. Amy heard dimly, and realized that they were saying that Ogden had gone to Albany, but more than that she did not } ee 4g seek to | Amy continued work as usual, and among other she visited to make order out "e confusion was Ogden’s room, P She was Met Arak she had heard him the previous 0 now, As Mrs. R , but the bed was unrumpled,
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an Pre se te a at ncn, See ie ae ea aie a — ~ make certain there was nothing undone which ought to be attended to. As she did 8 she noticed a peculiar fact. The wood of which the bed was ade was of plain ash, and on the yellow thereof sne observed a bright, red spot. She touched it—it was not yet fully dry, and was of a most suggestive nature. | She shivered, and then went at the spot with her scrub-cloth, The spot; vas not hard to eradi- cate, and was soon remove “Pm glad of that!” m.imured Amy. ‘“ It made me nervous—it looked just like blood!” CHAPTER II. THE WHARF RAT AT HOME, THE North River flowed with a peaceful sweep down past the pier where a boy of some- thing like fifteen years was sitting in a thought- ful mood and watching, without any coherent idea of his own intentions, the progress of the ferry-boats as they passed back and forth be- tween the New York and Jersey shores. A man came from the street and was at once made the recipient of critical attention. ** Goin’ in swimmin’ at this hour?” mentally inquired the boy, as calmly as if it was the pre- vailing custom to go swimming at all other hours in the vicinity. If such had been the programme it was changed, for the man only looked around close- ly and then turned and went back. “ Call again!” invited the boy, under his breath. ‘* My name is Paul o’ the Piers—better known as Whurf-rat Paul. This ere is my office, Come early an’ avoid the rush!” There was a cheerful air in keeping with this conceit, which, possibly, would have recom- mended the boy to the object of his remarks had the latter heard them, but all had been done and said so softly that the elder man was not aware he had been so near to any one else. The pier seemed deserted, and there was no good reason why it should be otherwise, The person who had referred to himself as Paul o’ the Piers did not expect anything of in- terest in addition to what he had seen, and as the man disappeared he took his attention from that quarter, Several minutes passed. Suddenly footsteps again sounded and a hu- man form approached, Paul at first supposed it was the same man whom he had seen before, but as he looked closer he perceived a difference in height between them which did away with the idea. Unlike his predecessor this wanderer acted as if he had some cause for fear or anxiety. He skulked down the pier and looked to the right and left in a singular manner, ‘*Be the perleece after him?’ wondered the Wharf-rat. ‘‘ Looks hke it, though it don’t foller that jest because he moves in a sartain way he has the blue-coated gents fer enemies, Honest men hev foes in New York, an’ they don’t carry brass buttons, either.” of the pier. Hestood looking down at the water in an odd way, only turning, now and then, to glance up the pier as if he expected some enemy to appear and assail him, No one came, and he soon ceased to look back and gave all his attention to the water. Paul grew restless. ** Kin it be he is considerin’ the committin’ o’ susanside?” The boy had heard of such things along the water-front before, and the suspicion was but natural. It was a melancholy feature of city life that all men did not find existence pleasant, and more than one of them sought a means of ending his troubles which was mournful in spite of what tho world considers the cowardice of the act. ‘*Bjinks! I'll interview him!” With this resolution Paul left his perch and walked down the pier. He was not heard until close to the unknown, who then turned around with a nervous start. ‘* Steady, general!” advised the boy. ‘ ain’t no earthly reason why * ie should git ex- cited over a small matter. 1’m a good an’ loyal citizen, an’ you may ez wal put that sotter wild eh eae o’ your face an’ come down ter biz. The wild look certainly was in the man’s face; he seemed on the point of running away, but finally ey a his mind as he noted what an 2 byrne! miless person was before him in the form of the boy. “Young fellow,” he answered, ‘‘who are ou?” 7 **Paul Peters, the Patent Promotor and Pier Patrol. That’s me.” The stranger had come to a stop on the coping . Paul, the Wharf-rat. The explanation did not explain much, and the sober, questioning look was still on the speaker’s face. ‘* What are you doing here?” continued the stranger. ‘*Pipin’ you!” ‘* Doing what?” ‘*Guess you ain’t up in modern language, ac- cordin’ ter the system of Hoyle an’ them other fellers, I’m only snoopin’ around a bit ter re- lieve the monotony of the dark night. See?’ ** You were not sent here by certain men?’ ‘*Notasend! Iownsuptono boss. I'm the Wharf-rat, independent, | am!” ** And you are not my enemy?” ‘Wal, not ter my knowledge, and I knows a heap about my own business.” ** Are you honest?” ** Honest ? Well, I should snicker! Ef you knew me ez my bosom frien’s do, you wouldn’t never think o’ propoundin’ sech an interrogatory ter Paul Peters. I'll admit I’m ez homely eza hedge-fence, ez the hay-seeds say, but you kin jest bet I’m on the square every time, Fer the affidavy thereto apply ter the chief o’ police. He’s had my kelp so many times he’s posted on my qualifications ter a seat on the bench o’ Justice.” All of which did not have much of any mean- ing to the stranger, who seemed suspicious and despondent, ‘* Well, boy, if you are all right,” he replied, you can do me a good turn. If you are all wrong, you can do meaniliturn. Which may I count on? Answer right to the point, as there is no time to lose. I’m in peril of my life!” “Great guns! you don’t say so! Who's try- ip’ to do you up, daddy?” ‘** Enemies, who are using me most unjustly; ay, who are even now hunting my life. Look there!” He put the hair away from his face and a red stain was revealed, It was that of blood, and his hair was matted with it all around the temple. Plainly, he had received hard usage, and the wharf-haunter was at once keenly interested. ‘* Wal, mister, [ should say you had got the worst 0’ the argument, an’ it looks like you was in a mix,” “They are still after mc—may be here any moment,” The boy looked down the pier, sharply on the alert, now. “Don’t be afraid; it is I they seek to injure,” reminded the unknown. “Who is ‘they?’” the Wharf-rat demanded to know, ‘* My enemies,” was the unsatisfactory reply. ‘*T have for the time thrown them off the track, but it is only a brief respite. They are on the trail, and if I do not get to some haven of refuge soon, I shall lose life at their bands, I ama stranger to the vicinity, Can you help me out of my difficulty?—can you hide me away from them?” Paul was not especially impressed with the idea of helping a man who would not confide in bim, and though the red stain had due effect, he was alout to refuse, when he saw another form ap at the a of the pier, man walked afew steps down toward the front, and then paused and looked around. Pag companion was not slow to discover m, ‘‘ They are here,” he exclaimed, with new agi- tation and apprehension. “There ain’t but one, stranger, an’ we can box him over the string-piece,” ‘*Others are back of him—rest assured of that, They will find and kill me! See! there! The others are with him!” lt was a fact that the first person was not alone, then, At least one ally had joined him, and Paul knew they were searching for some one, They had stopped, and were looking around searchingly. The er trembled pitifully. “ They will kill me!” he repeated. The boy’s sympathies began to be aroused, It did not ap like an equal fight when so many menaced one, and he threw aside his in- difference. ** Boss, you just come with me,” he directed, **T ain't no scientific dodger, but I reckon there is enough’ in me ter outwit sech p’isen snakes as them, Jest you foller my lead an’ I'll see you don’t git done up, this time. We'll slide off this pier onto the street afore they git onter the racket, See?” ‘** Yes, yes; if you know the way lead on!” The reply was made with feverish haste, and the tee brightened up amazingly, “ me {”? a ; EEE eee SS... REAPS RRS EEE Se SESS SP eA a Bae? SS ETRE ne ee Lan) Paul knew a way to creep along the side of the pier, but this purpose was thwarted by the movements of the enemy toward the couple at the water-end, ** Thunder!” The Pier Patrol uttered the word ina sort of dismay as he saw the way of escape cut off, but was not long at a loss for resources. ‘¢ Git in between them two boxes!” he ordered. “Tt’s a tight fit, but better than bein’ gobble.l by theenemy. In we go!” His companion was not eager, but Paul had a resistless way, and before anything more could be said the two were nestled down out of sight. From the cover of the box Paul watched the advance of the foe. ‘‘Kin you swim, mister?’ suddenly asked the Wharf-rat. ‘* Not a stroke, my lad.” ‘‘'Then we've got ter bolt fer it,” the boy an- nounced—‘trun fer it; but we'll try the sneak scheme, first, I ain't no idee it'll succeed. Ef the cry sounds ontir tho still air that we're about, why, we must jest get_a wiggle on an’ scud like rats goin’ to cover. Ketch on?” ‘The plan seems fatal.” ‘“‘ Ain’t it ez good ez ter set down here an’ let them find us at their leisure an’ sweet will?” ‘‘- You are right. Have your own way.” The searchers had come so near that the stran- ger’s nervousness was increased, and he was ready for any move which promised an atom of hope of escape, while Paul’s coolness created 2on- fidence in his young ally. ‘‘ Now fer the sneak, Come on!” Paul led the way. Darkness was their best friend, but discovery seemed certain, The pier was well littered, so the man-hunters did not at * once see the figures which were creeping along the edge of the pier, and Paul began to think es- cape was ass But whatever chance had existed was ruined by an unfortunate accident. The hunted man stumbled and fell. ‘« There he is!” It was a chance guess from one of the hunters, but it put the young patrol on the alert. Satis- fied that concealment was out of the question, he leaped to his feet. ‘¢ Run like sin!” was his brief order. He was not obeyed. The stranger did not arise to his feet, dumfounded by the result of his own carelessness, and Paul, seeing this, sprung at bim like a flash. ‘*Git a wiggle on! Don’t you understand?” His hand was on the man’s collar, and the lad seemed to lift him from the planks. “« Now, let’s do or die!” he exclaimed, ‘“‘ Fol- ler me ef you want ter save yer bacon. Hustle !" ” CHAPTER Iti. A TIME OF KEEN 8USPENSE, THE appearance of the two persons was a sur- prise to the hunters, and the fugitives thus got a fair start on the way to the street. Then an- other cry went up: ‘There he goes! A hundred dollars to him who first lays band on them!” The young Patrol of the Piers caught his companion by the arm, and they got under way in earnest, and with the boy’s pilotege crossed the street and turned into another thorough- are. ‘*T hang out nigh here,” Paul explained, ‘‘ an’ 111 jest take you ter my own den an’ let yer rest till the storm blows over; so shake a foot, general!” The pursuers were ing, but the pilot could not make his charge into a sprinter. The outlook would have been bad but for the fact that they were near the desired refuge. Paul quickly threw himself against a hall door near at hand and it flew back obediently. ‘* Tumble in, general!” Tumble in the stranger did, when the boy at once closed and locked the door. “That about settles it,” he confidently re- marked, Footsteps sounded outside, and a knock came immediately after. The boy smiled. ‘‘They must take us fer clams!” he added, ‘Do the dummies suppose we hev had all this trouble only ter let t come in an’ walk all over our collar-buttons? Wal, not ef Queen Vic knows her perogeratives.” ee knock was repeated, but no attention was d it. Pothe rescued man looked around, and, seeing he was in a place apperently safe, grew more com r ‘* Boy,” he remarked, ‘‘I shall never cease 0 be grateful to you for this great favor.” ; iY 4 Ly; eR ei
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° = RE RA, SSS eh St a Sep ee anes — ——me,” “* Have you seen any one about here?” “oe No,” Paul could not fail to understand that the men with his uncle were Joyce’s foes, come to light again,‘and he was not reluctant to stand by bis own ally and deceive them if it could be done. ae Somebody has come inter this house,” added ike, ‘‘ T should say so!” quoth Paul, looking at the men behind Norris, ‘¢ We want to find them.” ‘* Dye expect me ter help? I would, but I’m afflicted with the tic dolorons, an’ several other malign ry, Be an’ they’ve sotter gone ter my brain, I can’t work.” ‘What do you mean by such nonsense?” sharply demanded Pike. ‘¢ Nonsense? Unc, I ain’t built that way; no nonsense don’t never percolate from my knowl- edge-box |” ‘* Is this boy a fool?” inquired one of the other searchers, still more sharply. ‘‘ Why do you waste time on him?” ‘‘ Heis weak-mindel,”; Pike answered, ‘* but not so much so as he seems ter be. Paul, do you say you haven't seen the men we want?” ‘‘Ain’t seen no man but them [ see now,” coolly replied Paul, as he elevated his feet to the top of the table and looked very bland. One of the party looked under the bed, but saw no man, ‘¢ There’s other rooms,” informed Pike, ‘€T believe this is the boy we see with our game on the pier, an’ who come here with him,” persisted the searcher, “oe Spe ed ‘* He’s a tough lad, he is, Ef you think he’s done wrong, do him up for it,” Pike obli ly | rife gay ’ gingly Vv . ** Come off yer ree. retorted Paul. ‘I may be a tough chicken in one sense, but you'll find me tougher ef you try ter play hobbs with me. No back talk, unc; et won't go.” He appeared very defiant, but the whole mat- ter was a ‘*bluff” to take attention from the more important affair. He could afford to anger Pike Norris if he could by so doing save the man under the table, Pike’s companions were not of the right sort to be turned from the main point by any trivial diversion, and the foremost continued to look suspiciously at Paul, ‘1 believe this is the very same boy,” he de- clared, scowling at the boy in question, ‘* Notice the wart on my nose?” gravely in- quired Paul. “‘T noticed the general cut of your jib when you were getting my manaway. What have you done with him?” ‘*T pass! Don’t ketch on at all.” ““Do you mean tosay it was not you? Now, boy, be careful! The man isa noted criminal, and you will only get yourself into trouble by tryin’ ter shield him. Keep-clear of the law, at all events,” * Ditto, you /” Paul poked his friend under the table with his foot, afraid the latter might yield to fear and come out of his hiding-place. It was a mest critical moment, for if the gang saw fit to con- tinue the hunt they were sure to unearth the fugitive. Paul wondered it had not been done before, but the cover did not seem to occur to them, Besides the bed, it was the only refuge which would secrete any one, and it was prov- ing more of a success than was to be expected. “You brought him into the hall and fastened the door!” persisted the hunter, ‘* Now, what did you do then?” Pal shook his head. *‘ You ought ter consult a doctor, Your, case is really a desperate one, by gum! Ef you keep on that way, there ain’t no knowin’ what will be the result. More doctor an’ less whisky would. do you a pile o’ good!” he investigator had grown angry, and he scheme to express his feelings in emphatic nguage. Paul watched him hee and looked at ease, but he could hear Joyce breath- ing under the bed, and the danger was not to be discounted. ‘* Barnes, you've got to use rigorous measures,” declared one of the strangers who had previously ig silent, addressing him who had spoken for ] “ What?” ‘‘A little sqreeze might work a world of good,” y “ce True !? Barnes turned to Pike. “Have I permission to compel the boy to re- veal?” he asked, Pike hesitated, but Barnes slyly exhibited a bank-note, and tae uncle gave way, ‘* Do what you think best,” he agreed. wet I will make the kid talk, or have his ife CHAPTER IV. ENEMIES MEET, Ir was a sanguivary threat, but Barnes scem- ed equal toit. Hehad a bad face and theair which stamped him as one of the toughest of New York’s tough citizens, He who had been’ silent so ey was of different caliber, buié it seemed that Barnes had been hired for a special purpose and was fully equal to it. Found in the dregs of city life, he was one from whom any evil deed would occasion no sur- prise. He moved toward Paul to begin the system he had marked out, but the latter remained 'sur- prigingly cool, ‘Bf | was you I wouldn’t do it, mister,” the boy advised, ‘* Any sech thing will make feelings.” ‘*T know perfectly well that you are keepin’ the whereabouts o’ that feller secret from us. You’ve hid bim, an’, by thunder! ef you don’t say where, I'll make you a sick kid! it?” As he asked the last aneanee he essayed to gr Paul by the neck, but the hold was evaded by a quick twist. “* Don’t!" tersely cautioned the boy. ‘‘ Et may be loaded, an’ ef it is, you'll get everlastin'ly done up. , Barnes made another effort, but if Pike had not given his aid and caught Paul all would have gone for nothing, As it was, the boy was in the toils, ‘Now, you brat!” cried the tough, ‘‘ef you won't talk you'll take the consequences, I won’t be fooled with by you. Where is our man?” Againhis hand sought the neck-hold, and the expression on each face showed it was no mere intimidation. Paul read the signs well, but his / courage did not waver. It had become a battle between him and the enemy, and he was bound. to defeat them if such a thing was possible. He too, now hada plan, Discovery could not long be kept from Joyce, so the one thing to be done was to get the foe out of the room fora time and thus give Joyce chance to help him- Assuming a sullen air he growled: ‘ Keep yer choker off an’ I'll tell the story!” H es. were at once suspended, ‘‘T knew it was you I saw with the old maa!” ap “pga declared Barnes, ‘‘ Now, where e Whereis . /
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**Come up in the attic.” Barnes louked suspicious. ‘* We hev been there.” “Pike Norris don’t know this house so wal as toe thinks he does, Ef I don't show you places he never heerd of you kin call mealiar. Drat itall! YLain’t goin’ ter git my head into trou- ble fer nobody. I won't gaa the feller is up thore, now, fer of course he would seize tie first chance after bein’ left alone, an’ he sea there was danger, ter. skip out o’ the house”— this was a hint to Joyce, and delivered slowly and care- fclly—"* but Vil take youup in the attic. Come on! His apparent frankness had effect, All re- membered that the attic was a wild and unfur- nished place, and it was just possible that there might be a man still there, so nobody interposed any objection when Paul cheerfully rose to lead the way. All went out of the room, ‘Tf Joycey don’t. improve that chance he’s a clam!” thought Paul, as he saw he had the whole gang after him. The way was up a pair of rickety stairs, and the guide made all the noise ‘he could without exciting comment, He brought them up in the attic, but the lamplight flickered around with- out revealing the fugitive. *¢ Make the circuit!” directed Paul. ‘‘ Ef you don’t find bim 1’ll know what ter think.” The lamp was duly used, but neither the old boxes nor the dark shadows concealed the hunt- ed person. Once more every eye was leveled upon the guide, and he was not unequal to the demands of the: moment, ‘* Guess he’s found his way out,” was the nonchalant comment. ‘‘ Here is the whole se- ret,” Going to one side he moved what appeared to be a-fixed board, and an aperture beyond was revealed. ‘* Your daisy struck jest in time.” With a wave of his hand he indicated the space beyond, and. they saw a roof. It was that of g rear annex. Beyond was the back yard with other back yards close at hand, and abun- dant room for.any one.to escape. -Paul’s artifice became clear. ‘‘Did you -really leave him here?” asked Barnes. “+ That’s the:size of it.” “Why did you take him here, at all?” broke ‘in an unknown man, fiercely. *' What business had you to meddle with the:case?” “« General, I ginerally do «about ez I please, Ym a free American citizen, an’ I don’t stop ter go out in the street an’\ask Tom, Dick an’ Harry <f U kin do this or:do that,” Paul spoke with :thewtmost nonchalance, and ‘the force of his argument was not lost on the deader. ‘“T suppose we ‘shall have to overlook it. ‘Wow, what:are we to do next? What are the chances of our finding the person we seek, if we go out in the yard?” Barnes was studying Paul's face sharply. ‘* Mr, Avery,” be remarked, ‘‘ 1 ain’t yet sure -our man bas gone that way. Thbere’s a twinkle in this kid’s eyes I don’t like. I'll bet my socks the knows where the game is.” ‘‘ Wash the socks afore you bet them!” ad- vised Paul, with bis usual composure. : The speaker became the focus of several pairs -of eyes, All wereinquisitive and threatening, ‘but he bore the ordeal well. Avery turned to Pike and asked him to use his suthority decisively, but the uncie had to confess he did not possess any authority. He vever had been more than an apology for an wuncle to Paul, and since the latter bad grown old enough to care for himself he had dune so “in the full sense: of the word, and all intimacy between them had ceased. Naturally, when “forced to shift for himself, Paul had also taken it npon himself to be his own master in all ithiats, : ‘Failing to make any impression, all returned ‘to the room where the party come upon the hoy, ‘The lJatter glanced at once at the table, expecting to learn that Joyce had taken advan- tage of his opportunity and got out of sight. He had a rude shock, Joyce was still there! The stupidity of the man, or what seemed to ‘be that, was so marked that Paul was most completely disgusted. With his life at stake he had neglected a Providential chance, and there ‘he was yet, ready for any trouble the foe might amoke him, Ominous glances were leveled at Paul, but the ibeli of the outer door suddenly rung. ‘jl po down," remarked Pike, ‘It is some gehancy caller,” Paul, the Wharf-rat. He went accordingly, and the others waited, but there was soon a new turn of affairs in the room, Barnes chanced to use his eyes and mind at the same time, and the possibilities of the table suddenly dawned upon him. He arose and moved toward the point where Joyce was find- ing his doubtful security. Paul o’ the Piers felt his own heart jump with apprehension, There was no real suspicion in the man’s way, but he knew only too well that the situation did not admit of any such search. **Didn’t Pike call you?” he demanded, abrupt- y- He held up his hand to request silence, and Barnes paused. Unfortunately there was no call from Pike, so the lull could be but‘brief, and Paul tried to further his scheme by sending out many more words in rapid succession and taking Barnes’s thoughts from the subject which bad claimed his attention. The trick succeeded, but only for e moment. Suddenly the searcher moved forward again and lifted the table-cloth. There was no help for it, and Paul braced himself to meet the inevitable, The throwing back of the cloth revealed Joyce to all! Earnestly as they had looked for their man, no one had expected anything at that time, anc when they saw Joyce there, even glib Barnes was silent.’ He gazed in amazement, and only found words after a long delay. “* Thunder!” he finally managed to exclaim. Avery drew a revolver, **Shoot him down if he tries to injure you!” was the order. Paul o’ the Piers sprung to his feet. ‘*No shootin’ here!” he commanded. ‘* You ain’t got inter no slaughter-house, an’, b’jinks! you ain’t goin’ ter rage with voylence. No shootin’, or you’] hev the perleece down on you in the shake of a deer’s tail. Ketch on?” Joyce had no weapon, and could not have be- guu hostilities if he desired, but, checked by Paul’s words, the enemy made no move. "ahead was the first to recover his presence of mind. ‘*The old man is cornered!” he jubilantly cried. ‘‘Take him out, Barnes!” The latter needed no urging, and with one hend on Joyce’s collar he brought him forth from cover. The prisoner wes overwhelmed by bis misfortune, and coull «1)y cower on the floor where he had been landed. ‘Wal, I'll he hanged!’ muttered Barnes, amazed at his own success. ‘* Who’d hev thought it?” Avery gave Paul a black look. **The boy knew where he was, all the time!” he declared, ‘The boy did,” Paul agreed, ‘‘ an’ ef this gent d grasped onter his chances an’ taken a skip when he could he wouldn’t be here now ter be eat up by you pirates, Yes, the boy knew where he was. What be you goin’ to do about it?” Tobe question was put in a matter-of-fact way, but it made Barnes glare his rage. Avery was less inclined to hostilities. “You worked against us, but did no especial harm,” he remarked, ‘‘ We may see you later, but you're too insignificant to be noticed, now. Wecan afford to drop you.” Here he turned to Joyce. ‘* You see the folly of trying to beat us out,” he added, Joyce drew a deep breath, but had nothing to y. **Your break has resulted in no more than a little inconvenience to us,’”’ went on Avery. Joyce exhibited the red wound on his head. 44 Js that nothing?” he asked, in a husky voice, ‘* lt is the result of obstinacy.” ‘“‘Obstinacy! Isthat what you call a man’s ef- forts to preserve his life?” The question was pathetically put, and Paul felt a fresh thrill of indignation. Disgusted as be was at bis companion’s failure to improve his chance to get away, he did not forget that Joyce was wounded and, perhaps, suffering from more than usual indecision. Was he to be quiet while these men carried out their will?. No! He was resolved to appear in the case again. ‘* Pm enlisted," he thought. ‘tan’ ill hev it out with them ef I don’t cave in in the tryin’, by jinks!” Once more the door swung open and Pike re- appeared with several other persons close behind he . Clearly, they were not of Avery’s party, and it flashea upon Paul that there was to be a new turncfeyents. CHAPTER V, ,WHO Is HE? SoMEWHAT back in the ranks of the new- comers wasa lady, but it was she who broke 5 the temporary silence which followed the sur- price of their entrance. Her eyes had taken in all the points of the room, and she now moved quickly forward and confronted Avery. “Ts it thus I find you?” she demanded, scorn and hostility in her voice, and indignation in the flash of her superb eyes. Avery was speechless, He turned his own gaze slowly upon Joyce. ‘*Vile plotter!” the lady pursued, ‘‘is there no limit to your infamy and passion for crime?” He made a gesture of sullen protest. ‘Infamy would be ashamed to recognize her puril in you!” was the sarcastic addition. The man adcressed tlushed slightly. ‘*Spare your contemptuous words,” he an- swered, ‘*‘ Weare foes—let it rest at that and not try to puton heroics. When I figntI do it without compunction. Call my way what you will; I strive to win, and if my means are not to your liking Icare not. Keep your sarcasm to yourself, however; we need not bandy words, since we know we are foes,” She evidently took him at his word, and turn- ed from him coldly, Her gaze was now upon him who had given the name of Joyce. ** Mr. Ogden,” she spoke, ‘‘ are we in time to save you from harm? Or have these brutes nesrly killed you?” J eps shifted uneasily. ‘*Tam wounded, but I think not fatally,” he answered, ‘‘ You have a party with you—I beg you will not leave me with these persons, Save me, Limplore you!” He put out his d ina way. which gave force t» his last words, but surprise, more than anything else, was on her face. ‘‘Certainly we will save you,” she — “© You do not think we would do otherwise, do you? Perhaps, Mr. Oxden, you are dazed by your hurt, You know me, don’t you? I am Alice Vanner, and I am your old friend.” Joyce pressed his hand to his head in be- wilderment. “If you save me you are my friend,” he agreed, ‘*Do you remember me?” **T—I think I do,” Paul o’ the Piers knew the statement was not true, for Joyce’s manner plainly showed he did not remember «nything of the sort, but the young Jady wa3 not so discerning. ‘* You shall go with us and be well cared for,” she. asserted. ‘‘Do you,” and she turned to Avery, ‘‘ intend to object to this!” Avery did not reply at once. Miss Vanner had two men with ber, but it was a force which could be overpowered easily. Force would con- tinue himin possession of the field. Would it be prudent to exercise this force? ‘* Perhaps you went to see the inside of the police station,” Alice suggested, ‘Tam not one to be intimidated,” stoutly re- plied Avery, ‘‘butin thiscase the game does not seem worth the candle. You can take your man and do what you see fit with him.” As he spoke he moved toward the door, mak- ing a motion to his followers as he did so, and they all evinced a purpose to depart immediate- ly. Paul o’ the Piers observed this and grew uneasy. He looked at Joyce, and when it be- came clear that nobody else was to put in an objection, hs spoke sharply: “Say, does this go?” No one appeared to care to what the question referred, but as the gang continued their retreat Paul added with emphasis: ‘*Here’s aman witha wound on him likea slap-jack, Them p’ison critters did it. Be they ter be allowed to go free?” Alice hesitated. Then she addressed Joyce: ‘* Do you want them arrested, Mr. Ogden?” ‘‘ No, no!” was the quick reply. ‘‘ Then they can go,” Avery and his beelers bad not waited for the decision, and their footsteps were echoing. well down the stairs in a very short time. **- Youll be lucky if you don’t see them ouft- side,” remarked Paul, warningly. ‘¢ There is much in that,” Alice agreed. had ag go. Mr. Ogden, are you ready to de- ‘* Where to?” ‘*To my home.” Joyce moved uneasily, and turned his gaze upon Paul. ‘Once ‘there,” continued the young lady, ‘* you will be free from all molestation, ‘‘ You know how loyal I am, and all my care shall be exercised to save you from further trouble, while if you do not take the aid I offer, you will be in as bad a situation asever.”. He seemed uncertain, but Pau! wisely added: “We | fody gee i Fatah al ee Pleat a no Latin Ppa vr
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= EE, ar ke = ee oar *. Paul, the Wharf-rat! _— ‘* Yes, an’ be pounced upon by them the mo- eet, you put yer head out o’the door. That’s at! The last argument could not but be convinc- ing, and it bad visible effect upon Joyce, but he looked at Paul ia a peculiar way; re el aes isa friend of mine,” he finally remarked. ‘I would like to have some talk with him before we go out.” There was such evidence of apology in the re- quest that Alice replied: “ Certainly; talk with him all you please, of course,” J ye at once took Paul aside. “* This is the strangest thing I ever heard of,” he declared, strongly. ; *“ Why so?” the boy asked, “*T don’t know this girl!” **Sbe knows you,” ‘*So she thinks, but itisanerror. She calls me ‘Mr, Ogden.’ Iam not Mr. Ogden; my name is nothing of the sort, she thinks me, at all. No, I have no friend or relative called Ogden. It is all a mistake,” Ordinarily Paul would have given due atten- tion to this statement, but he now looked at the wound on Joyce’s head and thought he had an explanation of all that was peculiar. To him it seemed that Joyce had been so dazed by the hurt that he had forgotten his own name and identity. . Looking at the matter in this light, he pro- anc ga to humor the companion of his adven- ure, ** Wal, you can’t afford to throw away the chance which is put in yer way. You want friends, an’ you want them the worst way. You’ve got ’em right here in the gal an’ her chums, Seems ter me you'll hev ter go along an’ let things drift fer a while, makin’ out that you be Ogden, as she says,” **So it looks to me, but there may be danger in it. I'll go on condition that you accompany me. ** But I ain’t wanted.” **T ll fix that. If she is as much my friend as she claims, she certainly can’t object to my having a sort of valet along to look out for mac. Will you go? You shall be well paid.” Affaire were taking a turn wholly unlooked for, and Paul was not immediately ready with his answer, but the more be thought of it, the more he was inclined to take things as they came, He had no real home with Pike Norris— ae shouldn’t he take a new chance, now he had one ‘*Go in!” he decided, tersely. ‘‘ Ef you kin fix it, I’m with you ef my socks hold on,” Joyce returned to Alice and made known his wishes, There was much of doubt and concern in his mind, but he might have spared all of that. The proposal was accepted without ques- tion or hesitation, but as a matter of course, and it was decided that Paul was to go. He had no preparations to make, and was soon ready for the venture, Alice sent one of her helpers to summon a coach, and this was done, All went down and entered the vehicle, Pike Norris had twice sold out to the highest bi !der that night, and he was so uncertain as to how he would be held by the latest buyers that he kept out of sight. Avery and his band were not to he seen, and the coach rolled away with- out attracting any attention, as far as was to de noticed by the travelers. Paul o’ the Piers was keenly observant of their course, but he saw nothing to arouse suspicion. Toward the north they went, and were soon at the junction of Canal and Hudson streets. From that time their way was up the latter thorough- fare until they paused at a house thereon, All alighted and entered, but only Alice, Joyce and Paul went to the parlor. “*“Mr, Ogden,” she then said, ‘‘ will you havea doctor to see to your hurt, or shall I care for it? I do not think the in jury is serious,” ‘*Nor I,” he replied, hurriedly, ‘* Common dressing will be quite sufficient, or none at all.” eae 1 attend to it, then, Afterward we will all retire to our beds. It will be time enough to talk all these things over in the morn- ing. Don’t you think so?” *I do, indeed,” Paul was notof thesame mind. He still be- lieved Joyce was outof his head and needed a good physician, but he did not see fit to interfere while there was no decided proof of his belief. Alice dressed the hurt and showed real skill, asserting shat it was nothing that need worry or incapacitate J mbna and then serious thought was ab toretiring. Joyce surprised his hos- tess e given a bed on the I am not the man y asking that Paul floor in his room, but she did not remonstrate, and the plan was carried out, When the two were alone once more Joyce turned to Paul sharply, ‘* Tsn’t this amazing?’ he demanded, Ts it?” ‘* Most emphatically. Iam not the man this girl thinks, and here she bas housed mein her home under a mistaken impression, It is most extraordinary—especially, as ske seems to take it for granted that I know her intimately. If the real Ogden does that she must know him equally well, and if such intimacy exists, how does it happen she has so blundered on my identity?” The argument was that of a sane man, and Joyce’s whole manner confirmed the belief that he was that, at that moment. Paul was stag- gered, ‘* How kin it all be?” ** Just what I wish to know,” “ Didn't you never hear of her, or of Ogden?” ‘** Never!’ ‘‘Then it is funny, sure.” ‘*T must look very much like him,” ‘* Dead ringer, sure.” Joyce pressed his hand to his head and looked theimageof wonder. Paul believed him sincere, and was about as much surprised, himself, He grew more than ever interested in the case. ‘* You knew Avery?” he questioned. “ ” ‘© An’ she knew him, an’ he knew her?” ‘* Yes, or, at least, so she says,” ‘* Then how kin she hev you two mixed up?” **T don’t see, I remarked that he and I must look very much alike, but it was said thought- lessly. I was never aware that we looked at all alike, and now I think it over, [ am sure we do not, , There can be no resemblance, I am cer- tain,’ ‘Then why does she think you are him?” ** That is the mystery.” ‘* B’jinks, you're right!” And Paul, thoroughly perplexed, blinked fast and energetically as he tried to grasp the secret of all this. ‘‘T am now in this house,” added Joyce, ‘* but what is to come next I don’t know. Itisall a conundrum to me—all vague and mysterious. The girl has brought me here—what will happen next?’ CHAPTER VI. PAUL CLAIMS ALL IN SIGHT, THERE was nothing else to do, so the adven- turers finally went to bed and tosleep. Paul at least passed a peaceful night. He was of theage when slight things never disturb the mind, and he had no necessity to fear the events of the morning. Whether Joyce was equally blessed with rest was not explained, but he was therein the morn- ing and in condition far better than was to be pny vn breakfast-bell notified them that something was expected of them, and they dressed to- gether, ‘*T wonder what sort of a jubilee we are ter hev now?” commented Paul. ‘ This residence is hilarious, an’ I should be sorry ter lose it, Stick ter yer grip, mister, an’ hang on ter Ogden’s identity, no matter whether your name is Ozden, Joyce or John Brown, Palaces don’t grow on every bush. Stick to it, b’jinks!” ‘*T shall allow the error to go on for the time being, not because I hope for financial or other selfish gain, but because my personal safety must be considered,” ‘*Oertain, certain!” Paul declared, hastily, ‘*Hang ter yer grip, mister; hang on! [ like here!” The Boy of the Piers was very much satisfied, He never had slept in such quarters before, and he was willing to have the benefit of them by day, as well as by night, As long as Joyce held his place, Paul intended to as his servant, companion, or something of the sort. On going down-stairs they were met by a house- servant who informed them they were too late to breakfast with the rest of the family, but that it was all right, and they could take their time as it was. This they did, and one of them, at least, did full justice to the repast, Later, they were escorted to the parlor, where they were speedily joined by Alice. She greet- ed them cordially and soon explained: ‘*The Mirabeaus are coming to see you, at once, Mr, Ogden,” ‘ ** Are they?” Joyce spoke blankly, and Paul felt sure he did not know the Mirabeaus from George Washing- ton’s statue, “Tt trust it will soon be fully arranged,” she added, ** Certainly certainly.” “T will send them up as soon as they, come,” ** Very well,” Miss Alice soon went out, and then Joyce turned to Paul, ‘‘The game is about up,” he gloomily ob- served. ‘*I can’t hope to fool every one, and I don’t know the Mirxbeaus at all.” “ Bluff it out, general.” ‘*Tdoubt my ability. Last night it was the instinct of self-preservation with me, but now I have not that motive so vividly beforeme. £ feel that the time is at hand when all will be- come known,” Faul was of the same opinion, but he was less ready to succumb to what seemed inevitable. ‘‘ While there’s life there’s hope, mister,” he reminded. *‘ Don’t giveup. Weare now rollin’ in the lap of luxury, an’ you’re safe from yer enemies, it seems. Stick ter the ship—stick! Do it, boss, an’ let me inter the riffle!” ‘¢ Tt shall be done as soon as possible, for I am really afraid to go out. Let us hope all will be well,” ‘* Ef the enemy stick you on hard questions, jest turn ter me; I'll help you out.” Joyce replied that he would do this, but his tone showed the promise t» be purely mechani- cal, He underrated Paul and his powers of re- sistance and defense. Thisthe latter did not do, and he waited with his imaginative fancy in training. prepared to do all he could to keep up: their little artifice. Shortly after the door-bell rung, and the announcement of the servant was hardly needed to convince them the hour of trial was at hand, but when told they were wanted they went to obey the summons. In the parlor they found an old gentleman and a lady of less years.. The old gentleman did not wait to be intro- duced, but rushed forward and seized. Joyce's hand. ‘My dear Mr. Ogden!” he exclaimed, ‘‘ this is indeed an unexpected pleasure. I am very glad to see you!—I am delighted to see you!” He shook the hand so warmly that Joyce be- gan to feel he would do wrong to let the deceit go on, when, perhaps, he would gain nothing by so doing. Ought he not to own up that he was not Ogden? ‘* Ahem!” Paul o’ the Piers cleared his throat significant- ly, hoping to arouse Joyce to his duty, but as. that gentleman did not come to time as was de- sired, his ally himself broke the silence. ‘‘Ozden’s got a severe throat influenza, this morning, mister. You will please excuse him ef hedon’t ante up salubrious. Sometimes he gits a jim-hoodoo impediment therein, an’ can’t. scarcely whisker—I mean whisper.” The old gentleman looked surprised. “¢ Who is this youth?” he asked, ‘*T’m Ogden’s pard—that is, he’s adopted me ez his niece—nephew, I would say.” ‘tT take it you don’t know anything about this case?” questioned the old gentlemar, with mani est displeasure, but Paul was not to be choked off. ‘*Oh, but I do; I know a pile.” ‘Then you may be useful, later, but not now.” This statement was stiffly made, and then the old gentleman turned to Joyce. **Mr, Ogden,” he added, ‘““I suppose, of course, you know my name is Mirabeau. [have called upon you in the belief that you will be willing to explain something of the extraor- dinary circumstances which have been occupy- i gle er of late, and which ure of such vital, portance to me, Am I not right in this ‘* As far as my willingness goes, you certainly are,” Joyce replied, guardedly. ‘‘I shall beglad to tell all I can.” % * But, of course, you know all. Mirabeau poss? ¢ surprised at the answer he had received, and there wasa hesitation after his own remark. Then he came to time ineager fashion, ‘* What became of the public papers left by the: Honorable James Seagrief?”’ Joyce shifted his position uneasily. He had) heard of the Honorable James Seagrief, and so. had all men who kept abreast of the times, but: | the honorable gentieusn's pers he knew noth- ing about. Except that he had been a well- known public character, he had no information. as to the perty at all, ‘1 don’t know what became of them,” he final-~ ly replied. Mirabeau’s face fell, ‘* Impossible!” he exclaimed., Pe ee. ee ee ee
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**T haven’t them.” **To whom did you give them, then?’ **T never had them.” ‘*Tmpossibie!” Mirabeau more emphatically exclaimed. ‘Paul o’ the Piers began to bealarmed. Joyce was feeling his way in the dark, and under such pressure was likely soon to succumb and confess there was no possible way for him to have any information on the subject, because he was not the one who ought to know, Under such danger the crafty youth came to the rescue. ‘* Why ought we to know?” he asked. * Because Isaac Ogden was the custodian of Seagrief’s papers.” ‘* Where was he livin’, then?” asked Paul, shrewdly. **Ozden? Why, with his relatives, Irad Russel! and wife.” “ Ah y” Paul barely avoided making the exclamation so loud that he would attract attention. He be- lieved he was on the trail he sought! He had heard of [rad Russell. He knew a girl named Amy Dunn, and she lived with aman named Russell. If J oyce was not the genuine Ogden, was it not possible to find the genuine, and, by poe him, win the gratitude of Mirabeau so e would doas well by Joyce and Paul as if they could tell all he wished. **Tsaac,” Paul coolly exclaimed, addressing Joyce, ‘ain’t it in the scopeo’ luck that the oo ah may hev been put in that old barrel? Ef hey was, we kin jest about git ’em out an’ oblige this gent.” Joyce bad no idea what was meant by “ the barrel,” but he had confidence in his ally, and he somewhat reluctantly made reply: ** Tt is possible,” ** Then why not try it?” “Very well.” They had arrived at a decision, but not so with Mirabeau. He was glaring wrath, **Do you mean to say that the papers of the Honorable James Seabright were dumped away in a barrel like idle trash?” he almost shouted. ** Now hold up, general!” Paul advised. ‘‘ You don’t catch onter all the circumstances o’ the case, They was put there as the safest place 0’ all places, cause et was secure, an’ in case o’ fire could be lugged out quick an’ nice. See?” ** No, I don’t see,” Mirabeau persisted, though his voice had lost much of its sternness, ‘‘ You may have meant-well in pursuing such a course, but let me tell you 1 think it outrageous. Sea- head was a man of mark, and for his' papers to e ye in a barrel was simply an outrage, But let it drop. Whereis the barrel, now, and where are the papers?” {it was an untimely question. Paul had no ‘idea what he was talking about, and he looked at Joyce for help. But Joyce was looking to Paul to get out of the trouble he had gotten into, and both were silent before the demand for in- formation. CHAPTER VII. ABOUT ISAAC, “WELL, why don’t you answer?” Mirabeau s ke ema 5 and Paul began to see he had walked into difficulty, himself, in his zeal to aid Joyce, He noticed that Mr, Mirabeau had a stern and determined air, and he was very much of the opinion that he was one not to be trifled with, How were they to get clear of trouble. Fortunately, Paul o’ the Piers was a youth not in the habit of losing his nerve in a crisis, and he found a fresh fund of audacity now it was needed, _ Mister, you were wrong in thinkin’ Ogden, here, could tell you about this matter, I’m the only cucumber w’ot is able ter do that, fer I’m the only one w’ot hez kept track o’ things sense the things was barreled. I kin git the barrel, papers an’ all, but I shall hev ter doit on the sly. Jest you let me go an’ reconnoiter, an’ I'll soon bring you the news you want. See?” rabeau scowled. “Boy, I doubt you! Your story sounds im- le. Why should a boy know so much?” ‘Cause he’s a sharper.” “* Just what I think.” (r. Mirabeau was quite as suspicious as his pai indicated, and he turned from Paul to oyce “Explain how you let the papers go into the oarrel, Ogden!” he added, commandingly. The Cg addressed made a desperate effort to get n line, _ “They were left by me ata time I could not attend to them in person,” he answered, ‘‘ The _ boy knows far more than I, I trust nothing is Paul, the Wharf-rat. fine a, m,?” den?” wrong, Mr, Mirabeau, for the boy has done his best to guard them.” The scowl which met this explanation was not promising, and Joyce felt a strong desire to con- fess all, but was troubled with the fear that matters had gone too for for him to retreat, ‘‘Your talk about security is a humbug!” Mirabeau asserted. ‘' You were intrusted with these papers, and now you not only confess that you put them for security in a barrel—think of it!—but th.t their further care was left to a mere boy. This is outrageous!” Joyce turned his gaza upon Paul, and the lat- ter saw such evidence of weakening, there, that he hurriedly came to the front again, but with @ manner outwardly cool, ‘General, ef you let yer bazoo hev a rest an’ act like a sensible gent, instead o’ howlin’ like a dervish with a sore toe, [ll agree ter make a bluff in yer behalf, an’ the chances are I'll win the game, How is it? do you act mean, or will you be kinder decent?” Mirabeau was not inclined to look more favor- ably on this airy boy, but he was wise enough to suspect that his one chance might be to treat with him. ‘* What can you do?” he inquired. ‘*Go an’ see about them pub. docs, which is snort fer public documents,” ; “Then g> at once!” and he pointed toward the door. Joyce started up quickly: ‘*‘ We'll doit,” he declared, decisively. ‘*No, you won’t!” returned Mirabeau, with a cold smile. ‘‘ You will remain right here with me until I see how well your associate keeps his word. Toall intents and purposes you will be my prisoner, though you can fly light and call it by some milder name if you wish. Say, that you are my guest.” His sneer worried Joyce, who found courage for fresh remonstrance, ‘*Do you remember this is a free country? You say lam your prisoner. I object to such treatment, sir.” **T don’t care arap what you object to; here you stuy, just the same.” And there Mr. Mirabeau stuck. His severity and commanding air came to the front more emphatically, and it dawned upon the two allies that he was likely to keep both ee un- less they yielded to all he ordered. _When Joyce oe ua another and vain effort Paul spoke coolly: ‘* What do you care where you hang out, Og- den? [kin do the job—why not you stay here calm an’ jamaty?” **So be it.” ‘* Til go,” added Paul, ‘‘ as soon as I have con- sulted with Ogden.” **-You'll not consult with him!” declared Mira- beau. ‘I don’t trust you; there can be no con- sultation.” He was fixed in this resolution, and Paul gave way gracefully, though with inward perturba- tion. He knew Joyce was a veritable agreed and though he might do something in his behalf at a pinch, the latter had expressly directed that the pvlice were not to be thought of, and Paul saw how rocky the way was. All depended upon what he could learn else- where, and how much that meant to Joyce was indicated by the imploring and troubled glance of the latter, Mirabeau was anxious to get Paul away from the house, and the boy did not object. He went, the last thing he saw being Joyce’s worried face. As he walked down the street he was filled with wonder, **1'll be eaten fer a raw turpip—which I ain't —ef it don’t beat Robinson Crusoe how I’ve been beaten around frm pillar to post sence I took u with Joycey, Here I be a-gallopin’ on, an’ don’t know a blessed thing o’ what I’m at. Who is J oycey, anyhow, an’ what’s his secret? What’s the secret o’ the other huckleberries?” Occupied with thoughts like these, which he could not answer, he made the most of his time, and soon approached the house where he hoped to find clews, In one respect he was successful, for he found Amy Dunn cleaning the stoop when he arrived, He ted her cordially. ‘* Hullo, my bloomin’ daisy! How be you this Amy did not seem much moved by this greet- Dn wal,” she admitted, ‘** Puttin’ things in great shape, ain’t ye?” ‘*T’m washin’ the steps,” was the practical re- y- “‘Good fer you, my queen! How’s Isaac Og- He had deemed it just as well to put the inter- rogation in a sudden way, but she received it | very calmly ‘** He ain’t here now.” ; ‘Oh! ain’t he?” quoth Paul o’ the Piers, pleased to find he was on the track, ‘An’ © where is the gent anyhow?” ‘‘They say he’s gone ter Albany, wherever that is.” ( “T's a village up nigh West Troy,” informe1 Paul, with dignity. ‘* Why’s he gone there an’ when did he go?” . ; ‘Don’t know why, but it was last night. He went away in the night, too, an’ it seems very queer to me. Folks don’t usually go away in the night, do they, especially after they’ve been bleedin’?’ * Been what?’ ‘* Bleedin’ |” ‘* Did he do that?” ‘* Yes; there was blood in his room this mora- ing.” Paul rubbed his nose reflectively. ‘““Hrom what partwo’ his anatomy did he bleed?” ‘*T don’t know, an’ ef he was goin’ away so soon I don’t see why he wanted to put an extra lock on his door last night, do you?’ The course of Isaac Ogden had never before appeared so odd toAmy asit did now, with Paul’s serious face befora her. That face some- how quickened her dull‘perceptions. ‘* Did he do that?” Paul asked. : ** Yes; an’ this mornin’ be was gone,” ‘+See here, my angel, who is he, anybow?” and the questioner’s voice told of decidedly growin interest. ‘* Who in thunder is Isaac, an’ what’s all this rumpus about?” é ** He lives here with Irad an’ his wife, but I don’t guess there’s much love lost between them. Isaac was afraid o’ the Russells, I know, an’ mery that’s why he went away in the night so Paul brought Amy more to the point, and succeeded in learning that ever since she had been at Russell’s, Ogden had lived there, but more than that she was not able totell him in a satisfactory way. Paul, however, had not for- gotten what she said about Ogden putting an extra lock on his door, and: when he turned con- versation again to that subject he found devel- opments in order. : Amy related all that had happened the pre- vious night; she told of Ogden’s fear and the putting on of the bolt; of the cry heard in the night; of the visit of Russell to her room, and of the blood-stains she had found the next morning —after Ogden had gone to Albany—according to Irad’s account. All this came to him without suspicion on Amy’s part that she was unfolding so much, but Paul saw more in if. ‘¢Great Czesar’s spook!” he ejaculated, “ ef Isaac ain’t a gone goose the signs are mighty de- ceptive!” ‘* What do ye mean?” ‘They did him up!” * Tsaac?” “ Nobody else, b’jinks! an’ you kin bet he won’t come here no more, my treasure! He was in their way, an’ that’s all, Done up, fer sure!” The speaker shook his head gloomily, ~ ‘* Ef be’s dead, that’s why he wanted ter put the bolt on bis door,” “Amy, it’s a right speedy brain you hev’; you’re onter it like a buzzard onter a catapil- lar! Yes, fer sure!” : Paul scarcely noticed what hesaid, It was bad enough to find Isaac missing just when he was most desired, but the possibility that he had stumbled upon a murder was even more impres- sive. He began to put questions calculated to develop more concerning Ogden, but soon de- decided th t nothing was to be learned from the simple-minded girl unless by chance, Another idea occurred to him, ** Has Ogden any belongin’s?” ** Most o’ his things are gone from his room, . this mornin’, but he’s got a desk up in the back room that ain’t been touched, I was noticin’ the dust on it only a little time ago, an’ it come inter my head that he didn’t take anythi from it when he went off, Still, 1 know he h t in it he prized highly ” “Say, Amy!” cried Paul, “‘I must see that desk an’ the contents thereof !” CHAPTER VIII, “GETTING NEAR BED-ROCK, Tr had occurred to Paul o’ the Piers that the papers which Mirabeau was so anxious to gc were in that very desk, and he suddenly came eager to see it. But Amy looked doubt- ‘It won't do fer you to go in now.”
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Paul the Wharf-rat. ‘* Why not?” ‘* Trad an’ his wife are watchin’ all that occurs lixe two cats. I can’t move without their eqnintin’ at me. How would et beef I let you / in?” ‘* Qenter shot!” admitted Paul. ‘* T might do et ef they went away.” ‘* You must do et anyhow, my treasure. | W by not ter-night?” * You can try.” ‘i will, Great guns an’ cat-o’-nine-tails! et must bedone. Ef I kin get a look at the thing I reckon I may succeed in doing something o value, though w’ot I want ter do,” he added, in a lower tone, ‘‘is more than I know. That desi I desire an’ covet fer ter see, though.” There was no more to be gotten from Amy, so Paul wandered away. He was at a loss what to do next. It was useless to return to Mirabeau with a story of ill-success, 80 he woull have to defer action until he could pro- ceed more to the point, Tie latest discoveries were productive of deep thought. He had found where the much sought Isaac Ogden lived, and though he was not yet certain whether Joyce was the same as Ogden, the way appeared open to learn something of what had become a perplexing and interesting mystery. If the case of Isaac Ogden was one worthy of attention from such a man as Mirabeau, stern and business-like, the desk might well attract the attention of anybody. ; But if Joyce was not Ogden, and Paul be- lieved he really was not, where was that per- son? Had he been murdered by Irad Russell and his wife! ‘* Looks like it, by jinks!” Paul decided, ‘* fie was afraid o’ them, an’ he’s gone out 0’ sight an’ left a gory trail behind him, Murder, ef the signs don’t miscarry. I ought ter see the olice, butef I doI can’t get sight o’ that desk. f must postpone the police racket, anyhow. That kin come in later.”’ He looked anxiously at the sign of a jeweler by the way. It was barely noon, and there was much time to elapse before he could carry out his plan. Habit led him to the piers, his old resort and, practically, his home, He went to where he had met Joyce, There was no sign of the event of the night, and a dull business was being done there. Those who worked had no knowledge of the fact that men with murderous aims had been there before them, and, as usual in the great city, common traffic went on in the foot- prints of tragedy. He sat down to reflect upon the possibilities of the case, and considerable time pa away, Auon, he was aroused by the sound of foot- steps. He looked up and saw Avery, the leader of the original captors of the man Joyce! He was surprised at the audacity of the fellow in coming near him, but Avery smiled coolly. ‘+ ack to the old resort, eh?” he inquired. ‘¢ f ain't nowbere else,” Paul serenely agreed, “Have you tired of your new triend so quickly?” ‘ Paul was about to’resent the inference, but he had an inspiration and changed his mind, As- suming a sullen tone, he made reply: * Wot of it? You coves in good clothes are all alike, an’ you use us poor kids as you see fit, L&n me you, do, an’ you’re no good; that’s w’ot on bal me So your man has really shaken you?” ‘* Phat’s my biz!” ** Don’t get huffy ; there’s no need of it. What has happened?” Paul exhibited a fifty-cent piece he chanced to haya in his pocket, “Say, ain't that royal pay fer savin’ a feller from such a cut-throat as you be?” ‘*You might have known this would be the way,” asserted Avery, with an air of satisfac- tion. ‘‘ What could you expect from such a person? You threw over your only chance when you took him in preference to me, and now you see the result.” Paul assumed a “tough” sir and muttered: ‘*Ohn! come off! All you bloods with cash are ai :e—you don’t care a rap for a feller who has t«. work fer his daily grub,” ‘his acting was so perfect that Avery was p'verly deceived, and he hesitated no longer. ‘* Boy,” he exclaimed, ** give me your aid and yor shall not want for cash, yourself. You s)x!l be paid well, and bave iton thedot, Tell r + where Ogden is now?” , ‘What do I get?” a Daniel? very exhibited a roll of bank-notes, and y...\ pretended to look at them with avidity, | “ Now ” ‘Hardly! Give me time to learn whether | you are sincere, After your own experience you must understand that it isn’t safe to trust any one, Still, you are just as safe asifyou | had the cash, for I never break my word. It’s allright.” If Paul had been as bound up in dollars and | cents as he pretended, he would not have regard- ed this argument as convincing, but he did not | want to be too exacting when he was himself bent | on fooling somebody. | ** You talk square,” hesulkily responded, ‘‘ an’ | ef you areinclined ter do the right thing you'll find me ready ter help you out. I can’t tell ye jest where Ogden is, fer they shook me too soon fer me ter git onter that, but I kin git near enough to it so I reckon it'll all be right.” ** Proceed!” Paul had no explanation at hand, but he made a desperate effort to find one, ‘All I know is that the gal—Alice, do they call her?—told the cabman he was ter take some things from Number —— West street, at nine o'clock, ter-night, ter where they took Ogden. By hoverin’ nigh that place an’ follerin’ the vehicle, I reckon the retreat o’ the gang may be found, Course it kin, fer that matter.” Avery was disappointed. He had hoped for more decisive and quicker work, and for some- thing which would put him at once in touch with the winning cards of the case, but he was philosophic enough not to despise small win- nings. ‘You are sincere in this?’ he demanded, 2 Sure {” ye ‘* Then be here to-night, at an hour before the time named, aud I’ll put you in the way of get- ting money in your pocket, If you have told me right, I’ll do handsomely by you.” ‘*Good! I love.a cheerful giver!” declared Paul, never relaxing the seriousness of his face. Avery bad more questions to ask, and this he proceeded to do, but Paul was too wise to know much, and the cross-examination availed noth- ing. No more of importance was said, hey separated with the understanding that they were to meet on the pier at eight o'clock and Avery went his way. If he expected Pau to settle down to the prosaic occupation of watching the life-scenes of the vicinity he was very much mistaken. ‘*General, I’m with you!” the lad muttered, grimly, as Avery receded. Only waiting to have the movement safe he left his position and followed quietly and secret- ly where the man went. For one of his usual shrewdness Avery did not show due care, He may have been in deep thought, but certain it is that he walked away without once looking around to see if he was pursed, and, as a result, Paul’s task was by no means hard, It was not a long chase. Avery finally brought up at a house of ancient type and by no means unprepossessing exterior, and there he disappeared, Paul began to recon- noiter, but wasinterrupted as his quarry emerged again. Seeing he was going away the pursuer became in doubt as to his best course to follow, but was helped out by a slight circumstance, **Goin’in a cab!” was the comment, ‘‘ Wal, I can’t hire no cab, an’ I’ll hev to let him slide. | I ain’t in trainin’ ter race 1.0 hoss,” So Paul watched Avery depart, when he set- tled down to thesituation. It had occurred to him at the start that perhaps the greatest good might be done right in, or near, the house where Avery bad called, and this impression was con- firmed as he saw two men had come out and were watching bim go, ‘““They are chinnin’ about something, Won- der ef I kin learn what?” Panl conceived the idea with his usual quick- ness, and it seemed timely. The manner of the men—the intentness with which they gazd after the late caller, and the air which accom- panied it—all went to arouse the notion he had gained, and he set out to confirm his suspicion at once, : The nature of their surroundings was in his favor, and he sauntered forward with the most careless show imaginable. He safely secured the coveted position, CHAPTER IX, THE RIVER THIEVES, THE men were talking busily as Paul arrived within hearing. ‘Yes, old Avery is a schemer from ’way back,” one of the twain remarked, ‘ You see, Isaac Ogden became the holder of the papers of some dead politician—Seagrief, 1 think his name was—and though it was never expected he would PRA ese Ne em ee er ape —— be called upon to produce them, or that they would become valuable, they did assume just that aspect in events, It is a race now to see who will have them.” ‘© With the odds in Avery’s favor.” **T don’t know about it.” ‘* What's against him?” “Tho worst thing is that he don’t know where the papers are. You see, Ogden bas only just been located, and there is a rush for him and his aid. All welland good, but, in the meanwhile, where are the papers? They don’t know,” ‘*This Alice W hat’s-her-name is a relative of the dead politician, isn’t she?” ‘* So I understand it,” ** And Avery is helping her?” The previous speaker !aid his finger alongside bis nose. ** So he claims.” ** But you don’t believe it?” ‘*T think Avery is making a fool of the girl— in fact, I am sure of it, She has some senti- mental grounds for doing as she does—it’s some- body’s honor, or some such trash; but Avery is on the make, and he, knowing the papers have financial value to certain parties, is going to use her as a cat’s-paw.” ‘*Great scheme!” Both men laughed, but Paul Peters scowled his disapproval. ‘“*Efanybody is makin’ such a bid,” thought the pier shadow, * he’s simply an atrocious vil- lain, an’bhe kin count on meter trip bim u though these gents must be mixed. Avery ain’t makin’ no cat’s-paw, fer he ain’t in with Alice. ae it be that Mirabeau is the gent in the Judas iz . ‘*Seagrief,” went on the chief speaker of the twain, ‘was a mano’ great light and import- ance, a8 you may remember, All politicians have enemies and hold secrets, Right there is the secret of this crusade. Dead though he is, bis work goes on,” ‘‘ What’s this mention of somebody named Joyce?” continued the questioner, ** He was a servant for Isaac Ogden, as I un- derstand it. He can tell more about the matter than ay one save Ogden, but it is not known where this Joyce is,” The boy of the piers barely repressed a chuckle. He was advancing in the case, if others were not, He could understand that Joyce had been mistaken for Ogden, not because of any facial resemblance, but because the two had been associated at one time, and probably those who now claimed Joyce as the original Ogden bad not known the appearance of either. Vhy Joyce did not own his identity and get rid of a}l danger was not to be explained, but he un- doubtedly bad a reason, “The strings begin ter unite,” thought the shadow, ‘Paul, you may yet be in it!” “Ill bet Avery finds Joyce,” declared the sec- ond stranger, ** He may,” ‘““He’s a corker when he sets out to doa ek and don’t you forgetit, Yes, he’ll find 1m, ‘They happened on Ogden by luck. They didn’t any of them know where He was putting up, but Avery ran on him down near the piers, Ogden was hurt in the fight which followed and Avery was nearly beaten out by a boy who put in his oar at the wrong time—a meddlesome street Arab, with gall like a mountain!” Paul winked gravely at vacancy. ‘* Where's the kid now?” ‘Very likely he’s strangled,” ‘*So’s yer grandmother!” muttered the lis- tener, ‘*Mirabeau and his gang showed up at the wrong moment and rescued Ogden from Avery, but Ave will snap bim again, you bet!” ‘* A ginger snap!” thought Paul, derisively, He had heard about all the two men had to say, and as conversation slackened he moved away without having been suspected or noticed in more than a casual way. Several hours remaived before him, and he was not certain how he could best put them in, It would be a good thing for Joyce if he could return and assure Mirabeau that all was ready for him to seize the secret he aspired to gain, but as no such assurance was to be given at present, would it not be as well to keep awa oe ae what would come of the interview wi ver As he had been talking for effect when he told the latter about the house on West street he could not keep the promise held out, or further bid for that person’s favor, but he hoped some- thing might cause Avery to trust in him, in a measure, Before the appointed time he was on the pier,
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yen ~~ “ ok ate where he then sat down to await Avery’s com- g. At that season of the year darkness fell early, and he was not noticeable as he sat on the edge of the pier and watched the panorama of the greatstream, It was a sight wich never palled on his eyes, and worthy of close attention from any one,so he gave it scrutiny more marked _ than was to be expected under the ch cum- stances—he never grew nervous, * A boat!” Muttering thus, he finally aroused and locked ctownrd the water-end of the pier. ** Comin’ in, too.” It was coming, and in a peculiarly slow and sinuous way. This, and the stealthy touch of ithe oars, served to awaken his suspicions at the start. ‘Mischief up, fer sure! What is it? River thieves, or some other kind o’ vermin?” decided ‘the young Pier Patrol. Zigzagging down the dock the boat neared him. e extended his slight figure on the pier, sand looked down, as they cut the water so slyly. ‘Two men comprised the crew. Almost under his point of refuge they paused. ** As well here as anywhere,” commented one, ‘in a low voice. ‘** Let her go!” A rope was thrown up and made fast. Then ‘both clambered to the pier, Before they had danded Paul was far enough away, so that dis- covery was out of the question, and he could observe them to his heart’s desire, No further talk between them. They (looked back at the boat as if somewhat worried po trad it, but did not let that interfere with their plans. Silently they walked toward tke street and soon disappeared from sight. ** Wal, bere’s a go!” murmured Paul, “ Ef I thad the time I’d jest look inter this. Ez I size ‘them up they’re nothin’ less than cut-throats, ‘but there ain’t no proof o’ that, Et’s fer the qolice ter prove, an’ not fer me.” It was a natural decision, since he was expect- ‘ing Avery, but as he remembered some time was yet to elapse before he was to see that man, ; fresh curiosity seized upon him. ‘* Wonder what’s in that boat?” he muttered, and the more he thought on the subject, the amore eager he became to learn for himself, It appeared but the work of a moment, and the decided to look, Rising, he went to the edge eof the pier and silently lowered himself to the ‘boat. No great thing was there, certainly, for. he could see only a pile of old garments, but ‘these he pushed aside in the hope that they might conceal something of more importance. ** Dead frost!” ‘With an exclamation of disgust be turned away. The craft furnished nothing to interest him. He put out his hand to ascend to the pier, but stopped short. Footsteps sounded above, and two men ap- peared at the edge. Paul dropred to the bottom of the boat. Whoever was there would see him if he re- anained where he was, while if it was not the weturoing owners, he might escape notice, The last chance died away as they began to clamber down, and he saw he had got there at just the wrong moment. It was, indeed, the owners of the boat. To pull a coat over his form and then lay «qwet, was now his only refuge, ‘¢ No go, ter-night!” grumbled one of the men, as he dropped upon one of the oar-seats. “Stick to it!’ retorted the other, complain- ingly. ‘‘ You won't yield, an’ that’s the end of it. We'll go back like two chumps, when we might as well bave a rich haul,” ‘© Qurselves, fer instance, with the cops as the haulers,” ‘‘ Bah! you're too cautious!” Tm nochump.” ** Have it as you will.” Up to this time the last speaker seemed to thave an idea he might charge the mind of his companion, but he abandoned the hope now, and followed the example of his companion by taking an oar, They prepared to go, and Paul was still under ithe pile of old garments. — CHAPTER X. PAUL THE SPY. THE shadower of the piers was not troubled by his situation, When the two night-skulkers came back so unexpectedly he was in a measure taken unawares, and his one chance to escape ‘was by leaping into the water. He would have Paul, the Wharf-rat. done this without a thought of the wetting, or | possible danger, but he had delayed out of curi- osity. Now, this curiosity bade fair to make trouble for him. The position of the men was such that he could not make a dive overboard without danger of being seized or caught in the water. But this did not worry him, Coolly accepting the situation—he for the time forgot that he was | going away from the place where he was to meet Avery—he determined to listen for awhile before | making the dash for liberty. There was nothing to be heard, bowever. The men had quarreled over some minor point, and in a sulky mood they left the dock. Oars were dipped, and the boat receded from the pier. They worked with the caution of those accus- tomed to do all things on the sly, and scarcely a ripple disturbed the water as the craft went its way. Mebbe it’s a new Captain Kidd!” thought Paul, with his usual levity. ‘‘ Off ter the pirate islands we do go!” They reached tii6 open river, when the men pat more muscle into their work and the trip egan in earnest, Paul bared one part of his bead and tried to see where they were bound, The course was diagonally across the stream, with the Jower Jersey shore as the seeming ob- jective point. The passenger saw nothing to prevent bimself from taking a free ride, and so held to his place. any. the sulky mood of the twain began to abate. ‘“* What ef any o’ them snoozers see us go away?” asked the timid boatman, ‘* They would blow on us in a minute.” ‘* Bf they see us they will be layin’ fer us when we come back, an’ ef there is any sech sign the blamed critters shall die!” declared the second man, with cool and ominous resolution. “Ts it necessary ?” z “ Ain't it our motter ter kill any bloke who may make trouble fer us?” Yes, an’ I’m with ye ef you say it’s neces- “Tt is, ef we hev been seen.” Paul heard and grimaced, ‘* Pretty company l’ve got inter!” he thought. “They kill men without a mutter, ef thev’ve been seen, Nice chums fer an orphan boy, b’jinks!” ere was something of seriousness in this comment, for he was not placed so he could safe- ly leave his hiding-place until the other store was reached and the men saw fit to vacate the craft, but he was as cool as ever. : Yet, the fact remained that’ he might have serious trouble out of the meeting with these same wanderers of the night. As rig! 2 pase the Jersey shore they ex- ercised fresh care, and rowed into a dock with slow and cautious strokes. Jt was an old and tumble-down place, and it was not strange that they were not challenged. Indeed, it appeared that trade had so long deserted the spot that river-rats, human and otherwise, had it ail to themselves, Paul could see decay everywhere, in the unequal lines of the pier, The boat was made fast, and then they clam- bered to the surface above. The boy was left the only occupant of the craft, The chance was open for him to leave by taking to the water, but this he did not care to °. “T ain't goin’ ter get my buckskins wet fer nothin’, ef I kin help it,” he decided. Voices sounded on the pier, and he crawled up so he could see what was goingon, The original two men had been joined by another. Thelatter was speaking. ‘*T don’t see why you should leave here when I pod hired you to attend to my affairs!” he ow . “J reckon we ain’t obliged ter set around an’ suck our claws al! the time, jest ter take care of a man who's got a knife-wound in his gizzard,” retorted the leader of the pair, ‘' D’ye think he’ll run away?” ‘“* He may be stronger than he looks.” “Then, again, he may not.” ‘*Well, we won’t quarrel over it.. Perhaps it’s all right. How is your charge?” * Bad as ever.” “ He hasn't told his name?” ‘*No, nor he ain’t likely to until he gets some life inter him, He won't tell who heis till he gits his thinkers back.” “Odd!” was the musing comment, ‘“ Here I’ve picked him up, and_ hoped to get something ood out of it, but it’s all smoke sofar, He may a millionaire, or be may be a beggar, if he does wear goo clothes,” Ea io] 9 ** Bet you that ye don’t never realize ten cents out 0’ bim.” ‘I'm not likely toif he dies without telling wh» heis, I almost wish I’d turned him over to the police without trying to make a raise on him in this way. Well, let’s goin and see the fellow.” : ** Come on!” The boatmen led off and the third man came after. Paul saw their course was toward a shanty which stood on the edge of the pier—a most miserableand tumble-down structure—and as it was out of the line df observation he had had the chance to get out of sight at once. ** Shall J, or sha’n’t 1?” Paul’s inquisitive spirit was at the front, He always had felt an interest in things which hap- pened around the metropolis, and, being aware that many of the happenings were contrary to law, be bad struck matters which he had told to the police with advantage to them and him- self. ‘* Et’s too late ter keep the appointment with Avery on the dot,” he soliloquized. ‘‘ Et won’t take but a minute ter look inter this case, an’ it may be a good rage, e went on to the door of the shanty. It was closed, but was such a frail obstacle that he did not find it any great impediment. He pusbed it back. The interior. was divided into two parts. The first contained nothing of interest, and would have been dark but for the light which came through faintly from the inner half. This just showed the connecting door, and as none of the men were in the way he determined to have a view of the other half. Quietly he stole across the floor. One motion the door ajar, and the desired view was Ss. less the home of the boatmen. walls were hung with all kinds of clothing and odd articles, as well as with a multitude of different articles of varied use, and the floor was littered with the same things over again. If there was a variety in one way, there was none in value—nothing looked to of actual value, uuless it were the oars and other articles peculiar to the life of water-faring men. As a whole it was a good model of an old curiosity shop, All the men were present, and all were con- gregated around something which was in one corner. The dim light was not favorable for the sur- vey Paul would have liked, but it sufficed to show still another person, The latter was stretched out on a couch of rags, and presented a most doleful appearance. He was pale-faced, and, under the circumstances, with such faint light, uncanny-looking. It needed no explanation to show that he was the individual of whem the last of the trio had spoken. He lay with closed eyes, and even when one of them bent forward and touched him he did not stir or show any evidence that he knew of their presence, “You see how it is, Martin,” said the boat- man, addressing the man who had hired him, ‘* He doea seem the same.” ‘“ He'll die!” “Think so?” “ Yes,” 3 Martin bent and felt of the injured man’s ulse. ‘* Bad!” he admitted, ‘Better hand him over. You can’t make any raise out o’ him, an’ the police may find his folks an’ they give you ten cents, or more,” ‘* Don’t wax sarcastic, The man is not yet dead, and I haye some hope left. Ben, this ain’t avy of your work, is it? He was struck down by a4 secret foe—a job peculiarly like those you do, Mournful end to a life cf strength, and, perhaps, gayety. Struck down by an as- sassin hand! Hard luck!” ‘*You’re a pretty pill to sentimentalize!” growled Ben, “‘ You wouldn’t object ter cut anybody’s throat ef you could get a dollar out of it, Ob, 1 know you! No, I didn’t hit him, nor no_e 0’ my friends didn’t, Don’t be too funny! Do €z you please about the chap—I don’t care a rap.” ‘*T think I'll stick ter him fer the present.” Martin made a further examination, trying to learn just what the injured man’s physical con- dition was,and be was thus occupied when Paul was startled by the sound of footsteps be- hind him. Ves . ae one had entered the shanty by the main oor He saw a most miserable place, Yo one doubt, e unfinis —
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TT 19 Rm RR 10 Paul, the Wharf-rat. what this meant to him. He was cut off from retreat, and subject to discovery and any other mishap which the incident might bring about. The new-comer might prove to be a prowler who would be only too glad to get out of his dilemma when he saw others were there, but it was far more likely that it was some ally of Ben 7 or Martin, Paul took quick thought and acted accord- ingly. Only one way of action was open to him, and this would doubitlens prove to be anything but what he desired—a way of safety. There was ‘ no time to weigh the evidence with care, and he stole forward like a cat and gained the very presence of the trio. Not yet had they heard anything to draw their attention, and before they did he had crept behind a barrel. e@ was none too soon. The standing of the latest comer was shown as he advanced boldly to the inner room and pushed the door open. : ** Hallo, Ben!” he exclaimed. - There was a general start, but both Ben and a | his original companion grew at ease when they saw who it was, 7 “ Hallo, Mike!” Ben ans-~vered. i ** ve come around fer you ter go into a job ee with me, It’s only to nab the papers of a dead ot politician, an’ ef we make a success we shall get some boodle— ” Ben had been trying to stop the speaker, and he succeeded at last. He regarded Martin sus- oH piciously. bY ‘*W ho’ve you got here?” he snapped. ‘A safe gent,’ ‘© Yes,” Martin agreed, ‘and if you’re much worried Pll say your words were all Choctaw to e, So they had been, but to Paul o’ the Piers they had had a far more vivid meaning, CHAPTER XI, A TIME OF PERIL, MIKE was a hail-fellow-well-met, as was soon proved, He was duly introduced to Martin, and though the secret he had almost imparted was not again mentioned, all became good humor and good will between the quartette, Beer was brought out, and all partook. The only one who objected to the situation ‘was Paulo’ the Piers, ‘hey had sat down in just the worst way imaginable for him, and asa result, he could not leave his hiding-place with- out being seen. Practically, he was a pris- oper, Mike seeme:] to think Martin had been well enough recommended to make confidence safe, and he finally abruptly resumed the topic he had » begun before, “ve gota job planned out which I want you ‘2g to go into with me, Ben,” he explained. ‘‘ Did Be you ever hear of Seagrief, the dead politician— " that is, did you know of him when he’s alive?’ A, _ I b’lieve so,” é ** His biz is bein’ looked inter.” a) Wh ? ie “Hz heat it, he had the secrets of a good y many other public men, an’ most o’ them in "4 black an’ white. One o’ them is up fer office, Fs an’ it is known his record is away below par, Ef the truth was known o’ him be never could be elected, fer his work in the past has been mighty queer in some ways. Seagrief held the 4 proofs o' this fact, an’ left all in paper form \ swhen he died, Now, there’s a hustle ter find out a where his papers are, an’ nobody knows, Both ; sides in this present election wants them, you a see, an’ there’s a boodle for whoever kin deliver fn the goods,” CD ‘* Ter the highest bidder?” at: “* Of course.” Ri me gatte a plant.” Pict da t means cash, an’ that’s what is the main « ing. **Do you know where they be?” a ‘ST do; they’re with a family named Russell, a an’ it won’t be no great job ter getthem. What zm say, shall we go in?” % hesitated. He was ready for any scheme a2, which promised money, but this was out of his ae usual line of business. WOR ** Who would pay us?” he asked. ‘‘Have you d seen any of the leaders of the parties?” ‘*T haven’t, but you know how it is in a polit- ig ical campaign—each man Is ready ter cut the @ throat of his opponent, Then there is a gal— Wes Alice Somebody—who is a near relative o’ Sea- By grief, an’ she wants the papers so shecan destroy (a them, She thinks her relative may bimself be via put in a hole, an’ his memory disgraced, ef they Bh! are made public.” . é The piers shadower was getting news, and he » = The river haunter intruder did not fail to see at once decided which side he wason. He was with Alice, first, last, and all the time, for she was the only one he had seen who fully com- manded his respect. Ben looked thoughtful. ** Wouldn’t she pay more than the others?” ‘*Mebbe, but she won’t! I hate her, an’she don’t benefit by them dockyments—not ef I hev a thing ter do with them. I hev a grudge ag’in’ her, by thunder!” ‘S Say, she ain’t the one who had you sent up | fer stealin’, is she?” bluntly demanded Ben, ‘*She’s that very one, is Alice Vanner, durn her! Mebbe you see now why J hey an interest ih the case? Money is good, but revenge goes further. I'll git square with her ef it takes my life ter pay fer it!’ and Mike smote his knee heavily with his big fist. ‘* Go in)” It was a nonchalant answer, and Ben did not seem greatly interested, himself, It was not his quarrel. But Mike was in it with zoal, and he roceeded to talk further, and with volubility. Vhat he said amounted to nothing except. to show how bitter was his grudge, and the others did not care for that one way or the other. Ina general way they sympathized with him, but the prevailing idea was that he must fight out his own battles. He finally asked Ben for a decisive reply. but the latter was still hesitating when Paul heard sounds from the outer room which indicated a fresh arrival. The others heard nothing. It so bappened that trivial matters were for the time spoken of, and if, as seemed probable, anybody had paused to listen, there was nothing of importance to be heard, ‘ Again the connecting door moved—it swung ack, All looked up in wonder, and none were so much amazed as Paul o’ the Piers, Alice Vanner stood in the doorway! ‘* Great guns!” Paul breathed, rather than spoke the words, and then he could say no more, Surprise made bim utterly speechless, What unlucky chance bad brought the girl into the company of her most merciless foe?—of Mike, thé man she had | somehow sent to prison. She was not alone, A stout individual, who had the distinguishing traits of a household ser- vant, was by her side, but when he was consid- ered as a protector, it was to be seea how in- adequate the means were under existing condi- tions, She had come among wolves, and poorly guarded, : Mike was at first supremely astonished; then he flushed with triumph at seeing his fos within his grasp, as it were, He wasone of the most remote from the door, and as he saw he was not observed he shrunk back and awaited the outcome of the matter, Alice looked at those nearest ber. ‘*T wish tofind a man named Ben Magree,” she announced, ‘* ’m him,” replied Benjamin, ** You are the man who lives here?” “c I be,” ‘Doubtless you are thesamel seek, I have been referred to you for he!p, and hope you will be able to give it.” “ Tl try, mum,” Ben did not know he had to deal with Mike’s enemy, and, as he saw no way of making mone further than to oblige her, he was duly civil and anxious to do so, ‘* Do you know a Mr. Martin?” The gentleman who bore the name began to take fresh interest. He seemed to be in the ame himself, and with the instinct of one ad- icted to crime he would have asked cautious work on Ben’s part, but the latter blurted out the truth: ** Here he is!” ' He indicated Martin, and Alice’s face lighted up with hope. She had worn a doubtful ex- pression from the first, while her companion was even more worried. He continued in that vein, but she forgot fear in the pleasure of the discovery. ‘* John Martin?” she questioned. * That’s him.” With this certificate from Ben, she went on quickly: ‘* Do you know a certain Isaac Ogden?” The light did not show Martin’s face clearly, but ee reply was prompt: G) “‘ What about a pair of gold-bowed eye- lasses “a oy pawned at Jacob Felsky’s, in the ery Martin had an idea that his hair was trying to stand on end. He bad pawned the glasses, and | they had come from the pocket of the man who was at that moment lying unconscious on the couch behind him, It had been the only article of value on the stranger’s person, end as he was hard up, financially, he had ventured to use this means of replenishing his owu funds. Now, it looked as if he might come to grief through it. Oveying his first impulse he stubbornly re- turned: ‘*T ain't pawned no sech thing.” ‘*Giasses belonging to Isaac Ogden have pony thus pawned,” ‘**Can’t help it—I didn’t do it.” Martin was firm, while Paul o’ the Piers agi- tated his brain in vain to seize the connection, “Don’t you know Ogden? Come, my man,” and Alice grew persuasive, ‘if you do have any information, this is your chance of all chances to help yourself to cash, Itis not a menace to agi liberty or safety, if you found the glas:es y any means not strictly honest, for the article named does not figure atall. What L want 1s to locate Isaac Ogden.” Martin glanced slyly bebind him. It was a slight motion, but, taken with‘other things, it was enough to give Paul 0’ the Piers | an idea, Was Isaac Ogden even then before them in the person of the unconscious man? ‘* Miss, I ain’t done harm ter Ogden,” declared Martin, ‘‘and I don’t know as lever saw him. Still, I may hev met him somewhere, an’ got the things you name, in trade an’ barter, Ef I kim find c, what is it worth?’ ‘Fifty dollars!” ‘““T wo hundred will fetch him, miss,” **T have named a good price and can consider nothing more.” Martin noticed the tone in which she spoke and drew his coaclusions, He asked when and how he was to be paid, and, after some verbal fencing, a decision was reached which satisfied him, * So be it, miss, Wal, if you want the man who had the specs, there be is!” Moving slightly, he revealed the unconscious member of the party. Until then Alice bad not noticed the couch, much less the person thereon, and it was a sur- prise to her, She looked in wonder. light flickered on her and the others, making a weird and fitful picture. Thus far she had not given any attention to Mike, but Paul o’ the Piers had, He observed the triumphant, gloat- ing expression on the revengeful fellow’s face, and foresaw trouble of the worst kind. Far better would it have been for the adven- turesome girl if she was a long ways from Ben’s shanty. She turned again to Martin. ‘* Are you sure this is Ogden?” she asked, ‘It’s the chap who had the eye-glasses, an’ I suppose it’s him, too. Don’t you know?’ * His personal appearance is not known tome. I thought it was, and this error has once gotten me into trouble. This time 1 must be sure. Waken the man and let him speak for himself.” Martin moved uneasily, ‘Sorry, but he’s sick, an’ not in condition to move. He’s gota fever, or some other pestifer- ous disease, an’ he is unconscious, See?’ ‘¢This is no place for a sick person, He must be removed at once to a suitable place, and a good doctor summoned,” ‘* Anything you say, ef you hand over the cash, ove him ef you wish; I don’t object.” ** But I do!” And Mike stepped into view. CHAPTER XII, PAUL FACES THE CROWD. THE crisis was at hand, Paul o’ the Piers knew it would be impossible to make terms witb the revengeful ex-convict, All this was told in his brutal face, which bore an expression which spoke for itself. The chance had come for him to be revenged, and he was not going to miss it. Dim as the light was Alice was not slow to re-, cognize him, and the retreat of color from ber cheeks was proof of the fact that she realized how serious the occasion was, The scene was impressive in the extreme. Alice and Mike s nearest the light, where the shadows fell the least, while all the others were in the background except Paul, who red around the barrel in his anxiety to overhear and see all, ‘* Yes,” added Mike, ‘I do object! I ies an’ you know me. You hev seen me before, reckon! Ay, vei I've ba yen I see you ter my sorrer in the past, but it’s my turn now. Yes, lobjecti” . The dim i
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UE He delighted to dwell upon the expression, and the color did not come back to Alice's cheeks. She realized that in all probability he was a friend of the gang there assembled, and what he was to her she knew only too well. Rallying, she turned to Martin. ‘* My business is with you,” she said, as firmly as possible, ‘* Mine is with you!” retorted Mike. ‘‘ Don’t ou think you kin git out o’ this, fer you can’t, ou’re in fer it, an’ don’t you forget it, You an’ me hev met before, an’ you remember what it meant ter me, You remember, too, that I told you then I'd be revenged fer what happened terme. Well, the time has come, an’ don’t you forget it!” Again Alice determinedly ignored him, ‘* Mr, Martin, shall we continue our business?” she asked. There was no reply. ‘* Friends don’t go back on each otzer,’ ees Mike, ‘an’ I know I kin depend on all ere,’ So thought Paul. Strangers the gang might be to each other, but there was the freemasonry of crime between them, and they would un- doubtedly hang together and go against the irl. ar She’s goin’ ter get inter the biggest kind of a row!” he thought, Alice’s escort was very much alarmed, He was a man of moderately good courage, but he had not bargained on or ef rg J enemies by the wholesale when he agreed to help Alice in her work. As for the 1, she still showed unex- cted courage, but the worst facts were being impressed upon her mind, ** Mr, Martin,” she resumed, ‘‘if you will have this man conveyed at once to the nearest good hotel I will give you one hundred dollars.” ‘*Do you happen to have that sum about you!” and his eyes twinkled avariciously. ‘*T am not such a fool as that, but I can get it for you in a very short time. It shall be done, too, Will you'do what I ask?” There was a manifest wavering, but Mike soon put a stop to it. ‘* No, he won’t do it!” the rough declared. ** This ranch is owned by Ben and Terence, an’ they won’t go back on me. How is it, pards, does my word go or not?” “Et goes,” Ben agreed. al, take her!” ** Dll do it!” Mike.cudidenly advanced upon Alice, Both she and her servant were armed, and her own revolver came out quickly. The servant was too much alarmed, however, and could only stare and shake. The force against them was certainly too much for one person to resist with ze of success. n contrast to his failure Alice’s own courage shone out brilliantly as she presented the revol- “Ef you want the ver. ‘* Stop!” she commanded. ‘I will not submit to injustice from you. I know your nature and ice malignant hatred. Knowing these, I also now how to deal with you, Convict, proved guilty by many witnesses, you are not one to in- spire any more of respect than fear, Keep your distance, or take tle consequences!” There was something in her manner which held Mike speechless while she said her say in full. For the time he was awed, but his nature soon asserted itself, ‘*-You talk it well,” he grated, “ but it won’t work. I ain’t no clam ter be bullied by you, an’ I won’t let the advantage slip while I have it. You belong ter me, an’ I'll keep you!” “Keep mef”? _ “Yes, you go with me!” *Where?” “Where I see fit ter take you. You are my prisoner, an’ hev no vote in the case, I'll finda place ter keep ye, never fear,” The evil gleam in his eyes struck terror to Alice’s heart, but she tried not to show it. She dared not show it. To her it seemed the one hope was to keep up a bold demeanor and face ow danger resolutely while one chance re- ned, “You talk absurdly—” “Dol? I’llshow you! V’ll—” Again he started toward her, but the revolver big 90 ye him to a halt. ** Attempt to tuuch me and you die!” she de- clared, in a clear voice. Mike was nonplused. She was only a woman, but it was an unpleasant fact that a revolver evened up all other things, if it was heldina true hand and firm grasp. He saw she did not waver, and drew the inference. “Say, you fellers,” he finally growled, “‘ give moe a lift.” Paul, the Wharf-rat. | **Go in!” suggested Martin, with a grin. ** Don’t be afraid of a woman, my bold soldier. ‘**T ain’t afeered, but—” He did not think of a good way in which to | tion, but the young oarsman did not lose | eart or fall off in his endeavors. Throwing all his strength into the effort be essayed to get out of the dock before hanm could be done his charge, finish the sentence, and a derisive laugh came | and that the will of the enemy was good to do from the other men, ‘*She’s too much for you,” ventured Martin. Alice saw this banter was driving Mike to such harm was plain from the manner of Alice’s leading foe. J ‘* T have the bead on you!” added Mike. ‘‘ Hold desperation, and she could not but see what | up, or I'll shoot!” would be the result if the game was long kept up. ‘** Men,” she added, ‘‘ will you not aid me in this? Surely, you will not stand there and see this big brute work his will. Help me, and let me go away.” ‘“No!” declared Ben. an’ nobody shall put in his oar. Mike!” The words were scarcely out of hismouth when Mike made a desperate effort to obey the order. He gave one forward leap, and his band touched Alice’sarm, As this was done the weapon there- in was discharged, but the bullet went wild. Missing his head by the fraction of an inch, it buried itself in the wall and the agony was over. Alice struggled vainly in his grasp. ‘* Help!” she implored, looking for ber ser- vant. She appealed in vain; the man was in swift retreat, and fast leaving the shanty. **T have you!” cried Mike; ‘‘I have you, my beauty !” ** So has yer grandmother!” The words were shouted in his ear, and at the same time a foot was skillfully twisted around hisown, It was the lock of ascientific wrestler, and it had due effect. Mike, taken off his guard tumbled to the floor ingloriously, while a hand clutched Alice’s arm. ‘* Skip!” called out the same voice, ‘‘ Git a move on, an’ let it be the liveliest kind, too, Run, or you're a goue goose!” It was not a very elegant way to address a young lady, but the address came from Paul 0’ the Piers, and he was more noted for coming to the point than for elegance of diction. . At the crisis he had leaped from his covert, and his timely interference had given Alice her one chance. Fortunately, he had not to deal with a stupid person, and she acted promptly on the suggestion given. The way to safety was clear, if not assured, and she turned and fled. ** Whoop her up, Eliza Jane!” Such was the unique farewell Paul gave the gang, and then he went where Alice had led. ut he was not given the start which meant sure escape. ~ Long experience had rendered the gang quick-witted, and as one man they sprung up to follow, “A sp ” “Run him down!” ** Shoot him!” ‘* He can’t leave by the pier!” These and other shouts Paul heard as he went. All but one had no effect. The assertion that he could not go by the pier somehow found weightin his mind, It might mean something or nothing, but he was of the opinion it was the former, and as he remembered the row-boat which had been left by the pier, he formed a plan of action ina twinkling, With a few long steps he reached the side of the flying girl. ‘“‘This way!” ordered the boy. ‘‘Foller me, and I'll see you safely through the pinch. Don’t lose an atom o’ time, or you're a goner!” Alice had not failed to observe who came to her help in the shanty, and when the same per- son Bh hp he she was not slow to obey his call, Had she known the plan she might -not have been so ready, for when the direction took them toward the water she hesitated. ‘* Come on!” Paul urged. ‘* How can we go—” ‘By boat. Look back!—it’s the only way.” She did look back, and what she saw was enough to stop te hesitation, The enemy were pouring out of the shanty, and it would be folly to try and go down the pier in retreat, ** Down, down!” ordered the rescuer, She waited no longer. She was wholly un- accustomed to the water, but the boat was prom- ising, and she accepted Faul’s aid most willingly. Both went down burriedly. This was scarcely done, however, when the pursuers appeared at the head of the pier. “Hold up!” shouted Mike. ‘‘Ef you don’t surrender rut blow you out’ the water!” The threat did not alarm Paul. He had seized the oars, and with full force he plunged them into the brin wave, The craft was heavy and sluggish, m ig 8 rapid start out of the ques- ‘*Et’s Mike’s lay-out, Wind it up, CHAPTER XIII. THE RACE ON THE RIVER, “HADN'T you better stop?” asked Alice, ner- vously. “Stop?” repeated Paul. ‘‘ Why should I do that?” ‘*T don’t want you to be slain for me.” ‘* B’jinks! Pll rescue you or go down in the wreck |” Paul o’ the Piers uttered the words through his clinched teeth, and all the while he pulled the harder. He was not made of weak stuff, and did not intend to yield while one hope remained, Mike was still to be seen on the pier, and his every way indicated he intended to carry out his threat and fire, but the shot did not come, and boat was fast leaving the dock, A little further and the darkness would make the firing uncertain and unreliable, “They are gone!” suldenly announced Alicé, Paul looked back and saw there was, indeed; no one visible on the pier, The foe had abrupt-. ly and mysteriously disappeared. ‘¢ Some new scheme!” muttered Paul. ‘‘ What is it? 1s there another boat, or—” He soon had his answer. His sharp eyes de- tected the outlines of another craft. It was coming out of the adjoining dock, and its direc- tion was toward them, He had his answer. Alice looked out on the dark river. “Tt is very rough!” she murmured, ‘* It'll be rougher, soon,” Paul grimly replied. He realized that it wa. to be a race, with the odds against him. He was of o!d experience in water-life, and could pull a good car orswim with the best, but the craft be now had was not suited to navigation by one person. Well did he know he could not outrow the enemy if it came to a test of speed, and that was what seemed on the books, **Can I help?” asked Alice, anxiously, ‘*Not now. Keep cool, an’ be ready fer the inch, ef it comes. Ef you’ve got that revolver, ang onter it—you may need it, later!” Saying no more he bent to his work with vim, and the t moved much faster than was to be expected. Stil, he could not hope to gain, and he saw the other craft coming on with alarming ‘‘ Hold up, there!” ordered Mike. ‘‘ You are helpless, an’ you may ez wal save yerself from the wreck while you kin.” ‘* [ll die first!” breathed Alice. ** Ditto me, but I can’t talk.” Paul tried no more, but gave his every en- deavyor to the flight. The city of New York was to him the fairest place on earth, but never before had the lights of the metropolis looked so alluring and desirable. If he could only reach the other side of the stream | Haviog once settled down to business he gave no further attention to the river than was neces- sary to keep his direction, If he had given this attention he would have noticed a steamer mov- ing toward ‘them in the slow and majestic style of its kind, and have thought that it migbt yet figure in the case, All of the boy’s sympathies were enlisted in behalf of Alice, and as the other boat began to cut down the intervening distance he felt his own weakness keenly. Ob! for another pair of arms to urge on the craft—no one pair could. handle it properly. A mocking laugh came from the pursuers, Anger began to give place to contempt with them as they noticed how they were gaining, and Mike called out mockin af ‘* Fifty dollars on the kid! Who takes any- body else fer a winner?” **Ain’t he a daisy at the biz!’ added another voice. ** He ought ter row on the Atalantas.” ** How pretty he ‘feathers!’” ‘*O'Connor and Hanlan wouldn’t be in it!” It was amusement for them, and it did Paul no harm. He was not disturbed in the least, but with a strong and skillful stroke he pro- ceeded to get all out of the boat that he could. Inch by inch the foe gained, however, and as: the last hopes faded away Paul began to con— sider schemes other than rowing for victory. ‘Kin you swim?” he asked. ‘* A little,” Alice replied. ps # i f z's ,
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My 7 eer i ‘ “a M, yi +e BT th oie ¢ a aa Or - —e Se ‘““Ez a last resort we'll jump overboard. B’jinks! we won’t give ’em no easy victory.” * t am with you—let us fight to the bitter end!’ Paul felt proud of his ally at that moment, but it was no time to express any such feeling; he had more work todo, Allhis attention was on the other boat, and when, suddenly, his own | began to rock strangely he looked around witha start. What he saw was alarming, Looming above him was the black hulk of a steamer, and already its motion was rocking the frail boat, The veriest novice would have seen that a collision was imminent, if not unavoid- able, but Paul saw more. Nothing but a mir- acle could save them from being run down by the steamer—bis own efforts would avail noth- ing in an attempt to get out of the way. nstinctively he sprung to his feet and shout- Paul the Whartf-rat. sink into the water wholly. Would thediscovery be avoided? Keenly the pursuers looked around. ‘it?s dollers ter doughnuts they were drowned,” ventured a man in the boat, ‘Don’t think it,” replicd Mike, ‘* That gal is cunnin’ as the Evil One, Mebbeshe has ketched onter the steamer ¢z it passed.” ‘‘Don’t be absurd, Either they are drowned, or they are now floating in the water. Look sharp!” Slowly dipping their oars they came closer to the pair inthe very path of theboat. Paul made a few careful strokes and somewhat avoided the dreaded collision, and then be rested and await- ed the result. The pursuers came abreast of them. A few feet more would settle the case. Which way would it go? Still the oars were dipped, and the nearness of ed, There was a slight stir on the deck, but not | the danger was alarming. Not a word could in time. More pronounced became the rocking, and then, before the bow of tue larger craft could touch them the swell had caught and nearly overturned its diminutive opponent. One mo- ment the latter’s bow was pitched in air; then Alice and Paul were flung out and into the ‘water. Cool as ever in the crisis, Paul caught bis com- ‘panion as they went, determined they should Share the peril as they bad the flight, and to struggle in her behalf while life remained, While life remained! It was an ugly thought, for more than one voyager in New York Bay had lost life by just'such mishaps as this, What ensued waslike a nightmare. Caught by the water the helpless mA were tossed aboutwildly. The water bubbled about them, and.they seemed to be turning somersets by the ‘dozen. Iuthe whirlpool of froth they were ut- cee impotent, and it was useless to struggle. ToWPaul.it appeared as if a hundred mighty arms were giving him blow after blow, and that his person was being torn to pieces. 1 Would it be a death-grapple? ‘The tumult gradually subsided. True, they were tossed and rocked, and there was no sense of blows, and through the foam the boy began to see once more, @ saw, too, that the steamer was going on its way as serenely asif nothing “had occurred, while they were left in the area of froth which marked its departure, Smzularly enough, he had succeeded in keep- ing his grasp upon Alice, and they were still scompanions in the adventure. He looked at her face, but the darkness was such that it was not until she spoke that he knew whether she was «conscious, ** Be you alive?” he had asked. ‘* Yes,” was her brave reply, “and not seri- ously hurt, But you—you? ‘¢1’m in the swim!” returned Paul, with unex- pected levity. ‘‘ Yes, we’re both in the swim, an’ likely ter remain there unless our best foes pull us out.. Where bethey?” It did not take long to get a reply to the ques- tion. The second boat had escaped being over- turned by a narrow margin, and was tossing on the disturbed water only a few fathoms away, ‘‘ Keep mum!” Paul ordered. ‘* They’re look- ing ferus. They ain’t ketcked on yet—lay low, an’ they may ay Lay low!” One of the evemy stood up in the boat and “Yooked all around. His form was only indis- tinctly visible to those in the water, and Paul geined fresh hope that they would be able to He was support- ing himself easily, making no effort to advance im any direction, and awaiting the turn of avoid being seen, themselves, everts, ‘ Eyidently the standing man did not see any- | He raised his voice care- | way to the shanty. thing of interest, fully. “Hajlo!” he called, ‘Go ter Halifax!’ muttered Paul. Theres was a brief silence. ‘Filo! The call came once more, but with as poor re- sults. before, Then the hailer settled down and tue pursuers began to row, ‘* This is the pinch,” commented Paul, mighty shady, an’ they may pass us by.” There was not much to be seen of the twr ~ in -the-water, and the blackness of the night pre- vented that much from being observed unless the boat drew near at hand. Alice was again proving ber courage, and, fortunately, was not If not a really -skillful swimmer she had what was far more important, and that was good judgment. This _a drag upon her companion. it was which encouraged him so much, “ Keep the fugitives speak. Then the bow passed them —more strokes were made—the boat went past. Silently Paul began t> move the other wr ‘*Brace up!” he whispered to Alice, ‘‘The game is goin’our way. Be cool, an’ there ain’t no sort o’ danger.” The assurance was premature, in point of fact, but it did not prove soin any other degree, The foe receded, and Paul chuckled in glee. “ We're the people!” he declared. ‘Look! There is our own boat!” Alice ex- claimed, It was there, and right sids »p. The sight gave Paul a fresh idea, ‘*Hold ter yer grip!” he ordered. ‘‘ We'll te in that craft in the twinklin’ of an eye, b’jinks!” His plan occurred to Alice, and to her it seemed much better than to float around in the river. Paul swam lustily, and they were soon beside the boat. What came next was no easy task, but he knew the art well, and after a brief en- deavor they gained the interior of the coveted refuge, Paul breathed a sigh of relief. ‘Looks ter meas ef we're likely ter see New York all right,” he chuckled. ‘+ Can’t we go back to the shanty on the pier?” she asked, eagerly. i **Go back?” echoed Paul, in astonishment, ‘* Yes, to get the sick man, there,” Yhe full scope of the daring plan flashed upon he boy. ‘* B)jinks!” he cried, ‘‘ we kin, an’ we will!” CHAPTER XIV, FIGHTING TO THE END, PAUL o’ the Piers was by no means fresh after his long struggle with the waves, but his courage was as £ asever, He grasped the oars and began to row with zeal. ‘¢ We'll hev that there sick man ina brace o’ shakes!” he declared. ‘*Thank you, very much, I think he is a man whom | am anxious, most anxious to see.” **T know—Isaac Ogden.” é ‘*T see you overheard tne talk at the shanty.” ‘A few.” Paul did not think it necessary to explain that t | his knowledge of Isaac was not limited to the events on the pier, and all his attention was given to the present work. His stout efforts took them fast toward the Jersey shore, and as they saw no more of the pursuers, there was nothing to prevent a quick journey. As they neared the pier both strained their | eyes but saw nothing of any person thereon, A | hurried consultation led to the mutual belief that all the men had gone in the boat, and Paul made haste to put the bow against the pier. Then, while Alice remained where she was, he scrambled up and made quick steps along the The door was closed. What lay beyond? With speedy but cautious movements he open- ed the door, All was still. Lightly he crossed the floor of the outer room and went to the inner one. It was a moment of keen suspense as he looked beyond, but it was soon vver. One person, only, was in the room, and he was the sick man on the couch, Paul laughed cheer- fully and made one more dash, Leaning over the sup Isaac Ogden he shook him slightly and exclaimed: ‘Say, mister, be you awake?” There was no reply, and the eyes did not open. ‘‘Git a move on ef you kin!” added Paul, coaxingly. ‘I’m a friend, an’ this is your chance ter make a bolt fer liberty. Wiggle, neighbor, wiggle!” ‘Knocked out!” he tersely commented, anc then he seized the sick man and made a start for the door. Paul was strong for his years, and though the burden was heavy he did not falter. Wellaware that it was usage by no means agreeable or safe for one in that condition, he thought the end justified the means and hauled away cheer- fully. Rough as the mode ot locomotion was, it did not bring any sign of consciousness from the man. His condition seemed desperats enough to warrant the most serious fears, and Paul was not sure but he was taking risks for nothing, but be was bound to stand by Alice at all bazards, There was nobody to dispute his departure, and the edge of the pier was reached in safety. There the boat was in waiting, with Alice look- ing anxiously, ** All correct!” quoth Paul, cheerfally. ** What does he say?” she asked, quickly, “He says he ain’t init. In other words, he ain’t ins i aword. Silent ez the grave, he is, an’ unconscious ez the hills o’ Staten Island. Down he comes!” The rescuer poised his burden over the gap. ** Don’t let him fall!” cried Alice, ‘“ Nixey, but down he must come. Ease him away a bit, an’ ’ll dowhatI kin. Ob! we won’t hurt him,” Paul justified his confidence by lowering the man without doing harm, and once more he took the oars. ‘‘ The river’s the only way,” he commented. ‘* What if we meet the enemy?” ‘Then they must give us elbow-room or we'll use them severe.’ The speaker did not feel the courage he ex- pressed, but he relied a good deal upon the chance that there would be no such meeting. He did bis best by rowing promptly and vigor- ously, and the craft left the pier, The river seemed to have grown even darker than before, and Paul’s hopes rose, but Alice, peering ahead, suddenly exclaimed: ** A boat!” Her companion ceased rowing. ‘T's coming this way,” she added. ** Don’t breathe, an’ they may pass us!” Paul spoke very cautiously, and then, not ven- turing to make a stroke, held himself in readi- nessior action. 1t wastoolate to get out of the way, and all depended on whether the other craft would pass without its occupants seeing them. There was a small chance of that— would it materialize? Alice suddenly caught Paul’s arm. ‘* Tt is they !”’ she whispered, Nota word replied Paul. He had recognized Mike ard his allies, but, in any case, he had nothing to say. Nearer came the boat. “JT want to get the sick man out o’ the way immediately,” spoke one of the other crew, Paul chuckled. “Et won't be much work, ole hoss!” he mut- ~ Now the boat was abreast the fugitives. All of the men were looking straight ahead. While doing that they were not dangerous, but, if they turned their heads, discovery was sure to result. It was a period of keenest suspense. Paul drew a deepbreath, Theother craft had passed them, and the chances were far greater for their own success, A few steps further he let them go, and then his own oars touched the water again. His progress was resumed, and the darkness began to swallow them up. Mike and his gang went on toward the dock, * Row, row!” Alice urged, “Thats jest wot Im doin’,” replied Paul, calmly. ‘* Don’t you hev nofear, fer l’ll gamble they won't do usno moreharm. The noble old North River is swallowin’ us up, now, and they might ez wal try ter find a needle in a haymow, Ob! we're the people, an’ don’t you forget it!” He felt all the confidence be expressed, now, and under his lusty strokes the boat went on with arush. Even when the enemy found they had been outdone there would be no danger of successful pursuit. The battle was indeed, won! They drew near the New York shore gradual- ly, and as Alice gained a measure of courage, herself, she began to think of the near fu- future. What was to be done with the uncon- scious man? The new idea in her mind was enough to make her very anxious to see him uoder different circumstances; to talk with him, and learn if he was, indeed, Isaac Ogden. ve! 5 Another crisis was approaching, however,and| It wasa vain appeal, and he accepted thein-} ‘tI wish to get himto my ome,” she explained ies yas the boat drew closer Paul wished he could ! evitable. to Paul. *‘ How canit be done? Bs ) a te eit? lL. ) ja ok f iti hg Wie ha 3
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> eee | | | : | _one whom I saw often in life. Paul, the Wharf-rat. 13 ! ‘* Hire a coach.” **Can it be done?” “Sure! Wait until we touch,” He was aiming for a pier where he was known, realizing the importance of such a thing in case a policeman should investigate, and he soon put the boat into the dock as desired, After that, all was simple enough. He found aid from his friends there. A carriage was summoned and the sick man safely placed within. Alice gave due orders and the vehicle rolled away. Her residence was on Twelfth street, and as there was nothing .nore to interrupt their pro- ress they soon reached it. Their charge was ken inside; they foilowed; the carriage was dismissed; and then attention was given to the charge. There could be but one result of this— the need of a doctor was apparent to all, and one, therefore, was quickly summoned, He found that the patient was suffering from wounds which, serious under any circumstances, had become aggravated by neglect, and he was then in a critical condition. All that was possible was done by the good doctor; then he went away, Paul had taken care ‘‘not to get left in the shuffle,” as he expressed it, and it was natural that Alice should gravitate to his side when she had done what she could. “T wish I knew if he is Isaac Ogden!” she murmured, half unconsciously. ; “Pll find out fer you,” declared Paul, confi- dently. ‘* What do you know about him?” ** Nothin’ much, ez a man, but there is them who know his looks ez wal ez I do yours, an’ I kin produce them folks—tkough it’s a bit late -fer any sech step, now,” After what had occurred Alice could not sus- Lacy see of trifling with her, and she quickly ed: ‘*T don’t see how you know of him.” ‘*T know where he lived, an’ them who took care o’ him, an’a bit more than that. I’ve got inter the swim somewhat in this case, an’ ef you see fit ter take me inter it further I don’t reckon you'll be sorry fer it, I don’t. I’ve got ter take sides in this case, an’ my inclinations all say, side with this gal here. Why can’t we sorter git tergether an’ help each other?” It was an unexpected proposal, and Alice had many questions to ask before she was willing to be confidential in return, Paul’s straightfor- ward manner had due effect, however, and she saw fit to speak plainly. “Tf this sick man is Isaac Ogden, it is of vast value to me that I establish the fact.” ** You want them papers?” ** They are those left with him by the late Mr. Seagrief, Many persons would tell youl am a relative of Mr, Seagrief. That is not so, strict- ly. He was my mother’s step-brother, yet not i He was a politi- cian, and @ man who had work to do which is not without stain, Perhaps he meant to be hon- est, yet I know he forgot all but success when he was engaged in the work,” ‘* Other politicians are built that way!” dryly remarked Paul o’ the Piers, ‘* Although not a relative he is generally sup- posed to be, and his name and that of his step- sister, my mother, are linked in public memory. Aught that affected him injuriously would affect her memory in the same way—and I[ am so fear- ful that those papers would put him in a bad light that I am resolved they shall not become public property if I can help it.” “Binks! I’m with ye!” Paul cried, CHAPTER XV. A DESPERATE RESORT, EARLY the next morning Paul went toward the house where [saac Ogden had lived for so long. He had told Alice that Amy Dunn could say definitely whether the sick man was Ogden, Alice had urged him away on the trip, and awaited the return with anxiety. The delay was not great, and Paul put in an appearance with a small girl in charge. His face was serious, but he came to business with his usual airy fashion. “ Alice, this here is Miss Amy Dunn, What she’s done deponent don’t say, but that’s her mame, jest the same, See? Wal, Amy, look yer finest, an’ ace the music as ef you wa’n’t afeerd of the fife,” ‘ . Alice scarcely heard this characteristic ad- dress. he was somewhat d intedin Amy, whose. -imple nature was in part expressed a ile il: Giles SYS de Na her face, but she found Amy could talk ina straightforward way when she knew what she was talking about. She was taken in to see the sick man, and her verdict came promptly. ‘“* That's Isaac!” Paul breathed a sigh of relief. After all the talk about the missing man it was a relief in- deed to find some one who could say something definite about it, ‘*He has fallen among thieves,” observed Alice, ‘* Yes; an’ their name is Russell,” added Paul, ‘* Guess they tried ter kill him,” supplement- Amy, Alice had not been told of this feature of the affair, but she was quickly enlightened, All the facts which had been passed by so lightly by Amy had a meaning to Alice, as they had to Paul, and they could not doubt that Isaac had received his injuries from the Russells, Why they had tried to get rid of him was not plain, but it was certain they had assaulted him in the house and then conveyed him—thinking, per- haps, he was dead—to the place where he had been found by Martin. Matters had worked much better for Isaac than for his foes, since he received bis hurt. Certain things told by Amy gave still more light to Pauland Alice, The Russells had not seemed to get the satisfaction out of their crime that Irad had expected, and even he had become nervous since the deed was done. Amy had become an object of suspicion and close scrutiny. She had been in the house when the murder was attempted, and though there was nothing to show she knew cf any incrimin- ating circumstance, they had the iear of her which crime always has for anything which may arise against it, ‘*Tbey’re afraid o’ her,” remarked Paul to Alice, ‘ an’ she ought not ter go back there.” ‘** Of course she will not, I'll care for her.” ‘*She may hev ter go back,” decided the boy shadower. ‘‘ You want them papers?” “Certainly; and, what is more, I must have them.” ‘* Wal, in spite o’ the resks we run, I think we don’t want ter go too fast on this matter, We might go there by day, but Russell would be on hand like a rooster ter the dough-dish, an how could we get them dockymunts? I say le’s take our time an’ wait fer night. Shall we?” a dread this delay,” Alice confessed, nerv- ously, ‘* Better go slow than ter fail in haste.” **Couldn’t I buy Russell up?” “Ogden bad the papers. Russell killed him as nigh dead ez hedared. S’pose we come ter see him, won't he think we’re after his murderous secret an’ so balk us?” “That may be,” Alice saw theforce of the argament, and her reply was given witha sigh. Haste might ruin all; that was plain. Still, there was much to be said, and she meditated deeply on the question before she-gave way. In the end it was decided that they shculd delay until after dark, and un- til the Russells were sup to be asleep, Then all must be risked. It was unfortunate that the chief risk must fall upon Amy, but, as they were uot house- breakers, it was thought necessary to have an ally in the Russell residence. Amy, on being questioned, declared readily that she had no fear on that point, Her decision amounted to noth- ing, for the others saw more clearly than she could that she might be in the greatest lif she went back, but as noone could say tivel that the Russells contemplated harm to her, it was at Jast settled in that way. She left the house before her absence was likely to be commented upon and went homeward. Paul had not forgotten certain other persons, and as Alice did not refer to them, he did, “Say, where’s Mirabeau and Joyce?” he ** Gone!” Alice announced, sornewhat curtly. ** Where?” ‘*T have not seen them of Jate,” “Have they skipped the ‘rt-la-la?” “I will be frank enough to say that Mirabeau has disappeared and takin Joyce with him, I can only suspect that Mira>eau has proven false to me—that ‘he was always a traitor at heart, and my enemy. More than that I do not care to 5 A _ Paul did not press the subject. Alice. did not seem disposed to be confidential, and he had an inne he might learn something hy his own ef- He bad ‘not ‘forgotten his engagement with Avery, and he went tothe house, though with- out any great hope of being-able‘tolearn any- | thing. On his arrival he found the place de sert: d, and nothing to be discovered of Avery. Returning to Alice, he killed time uvtil nine o'clock, when be and the girl went to the vicinity of the Russell residence. Leaving her, he, alone, went close to the house, Something he saw at an upper window caused him to smile with satisfaction. A white cloth was visible, there—the signal expected from Amy, ‘* We'll make it yet!’ Paul murmured, Taking up his stand he waited until, an hour later, the lights were extinguished in the build- ing, and then returned to where Alice awaited his return, ** All right!” he announced. ‘© Did you see Amy?” ‘* No, but the flag is out.” ‘* We forgot to tell her at what time it was to» be shown, and it occurs to me she may have ut it out so early that we really can tell noth- on by it. I should much rather know she is. safe than to see the bit of cloth.” It was a fact well stated, but they tried to console themselves with the idea that they would find everything satisfactory; and then. walked on to the Russell residence, Paul moved to the area and knocked at the basement door. It was a light tap, but sufficiently loud so that it must be heard by any one listening for it. He paused, but the door ‘was not opened and no footstep sounded within. He knocked again. Silence continued, Tt was not uotil all reasonable delay had been tried that Paul returned to Alice and reported the result, ‘Dm afraid that small girl has got into trou-- ble,” he declared. ‘* Perhaps she has fallen asleep.” ‘That ain’t her way. Amy ain’t the bright~ est gal I’ve seen, but she’s as Joyal ez you kim find them. No, I’m afeerd she’s been set down. on,” “Can they bave killed her?” ‘Dunno! You can’t bet on killers.” ‘* What is to be done?” ‘* Ef she don’t show up ter let us in pretty soon, I’ve got ter goin anyhow, of my own ac- cord,” ‘** How can that be done?” ‘*]’ve been usin’ my eyes, an’I reckon I kin see the way clear. The castle ain’t burglar-. proof, by a long shot, One o’ the parlor win- ders is open a bit, an’ all I hev ter do is ter craw] ter the balcony an’ jest goin. See?” ‘*It may come to that. Iam glad the way is open. Wouldit not be well to avail ourselves: of it right away?’ **T don’t think it. I’d like a report from Amy ef we can git one, afore we make a break. Still, we won’t wait long.” ; They did not wait long. Amy did not ap- pear, and after some delay they decided to waste no more valuable time. There was no knowing what might occur which would work. to their disadvantage. Alice insisted upon bearing her share of the danger and responsibility, and wich Paul moved to the window she went the same way. He had not miscalculated the condition of the window, and it was ajar as desired. He got upon the baleony, and then, raising the sash listened attentively. Nothing was to be heard within, ** Come on!” He spoke in a whisper to Alice, and crawled through the window. To him the venture was only one which fur- nished pleasant excitement, but it meant far more to her. The family honor was at stake and the next few moments, she believed, would settle the results of all the various plots then in operation, CHAPTER XVI. > THE NIGHT ATTEMPT, Amy had given a description of the house as ood ag her wits would allow, and Paul did not ata to move wholly at random, but even the description made it hard to get over a house be had no acquaintance with, Every second he expected to fall overa chair, and thus bring Irad Russell end his wife upon them, Well up in the building was the desk where, it was hoped, Isaac Ogden had the papers of Mr Seagrief stored, and in that line ul took his march, with Alice Vanner elose bebind The leader was more uneasy than he had ad- mitted to Alice, He could not understand why Amy should go back on them sooddly, anv could not get rid of the unpleasant fear that she had
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been captured by Irad. Ifthis had occurred, what had been done with her, since? Framnd He found the front hall and began the ascent of the stairs, and all the while silence hung over them, Up, up, he went, and finally drew near the room where the desk was said tobe, Thus far no sound had occuyred to arouse fear, and Alice, at least, was %n better spirits than be- fore, A little more of success and all would be well, They had brought a dark lantern, and when the door was closed the light was turned on. Except for their presence the room was with out human cccupant, but, what was a good deal better, the desk stood where they had ex- pected. ** Victory!” Alice whispered. “cc Ye-es,” Paul answered hesitatingly, for he was not ‘ure of the victory. One point eort did not make triumph assured. He quickly added: ‘* We'll git ter work like a hustler from ’way- back. Here's to biz!” He tried the desk and found it locked. The key was nowhere visible, and both he and Alice felt a strong\reluctance to anything which ap- proached burgiarious efforts, but they had already taken the first step in breaking into the house, while they were not so situated that they could split hairs or delay in the task they had undertaken. The lock must be broken, and they were not without means of doing this, A hatchet had been brought, and with this Paul attacked the impediment. “It’s a short job,” he encouragingly remark- The lock had begun to give way when the boy abruptly paused. ‘* Footsteps!” he exclaimed. One moment longer he delayed; then he caught Alice by the arm. ‘* Get out o’ sight!” he directed, hurriedly. He had observed a closet at one side, and to- ward this he shoved his companion, His zeal made the delay but brief, and it was well it was #0. They had scarcely gained the shelter when \ the door to the hall opened. Peering out, he saw a woman, She was tall and thin, and haggard of face, andthe white night garments she wore made her look so ghostly that he felt a little thrill of uneasiness. The possibility that they bad been seen or heard was soon done away with. She did not look at the closet, or around the room as one ‘would if in search of a particular person, but with her gaze directed to one point, only, she walked toward the desk. Paul moved uneasily. What did she want of it? Even if her desires were simple, the marks of hishatchet were there and she could not fail to see them if she looked with any degree of closeness, She laid a hand on the desk and then, gazing at vacancy, sighed deeply. ‘“*The accursed thing haunts me!” she mur- moured. ‘' Why isn’t it ee with the rest? Wh should anything remind me of that night? It keeps the horror alive!” Paul touched Alice’s arm, ** Russell’s wife, I'll bet a cookey!” he ven- tured. There was a lull. For no visible reason she kept her position and continued to stare at vacancy. There was much of the ghostly in all this, and it might have alarmed any one but practical persons. Something drew Paul's attention to the door, again. He saw it pushed a little further back, and then the faee of a man appeared at the aperture. It was Irad Russell. The latter’s expression was dark and forbid- ding, and the harbinger of a storm. It wasa trifle reassuring to the adventuresome couple that he gazed only at his wife. Suddenly he started and, with soft steps, crossed the floor. Mrs. Russell did not hear him until he as sud- denly laid his hand on her arm, She started and uttered a cry of terror. As her face was thus revealed it bore an ex- pression of dismay and horror. Russell muttered a curse, ‘*What fool idea has sent you here?” he de- manded, sharply. ‘‘ What are you mooning pri an of nights for? Why don’t you keep in She hesitated, sighed, and seemed to realize, for the first time, that she was with a human being and not a ghost. Sadly she replied: **T can’t sleep.” ‘Who asked you to sleep? Who cares whether you sleep or not? What if you don’t sleept Is that any reason why you should go | everybody about that case. Paul, the Whavrf-rat. wandering around like an unquietspirit? Hang it ali! your fool ways make me weary. Do you hear? Weary! Sick! Disgusted!” ‘Oh! Irad, you don’t know!” ‘*T know you're a fool.” **T can’t help what I feel; the deed we did sits heavily on my conscience. Isaac Ogden was not a bad man, but we became bad, Oh! if I could bring his life back I never would do harm to bim again—no, nor to any human being.” Mrs, Russell wrung ker hands, and her hus- band caught her angrily by the arm. ‘* Woman!” he hissed, “if you don’t let up on all this P’ll do you up in the same way Ogden was done up. What's done is done, and I swear I won’t have you go mooning around and telling We did Isaac up, and we had good cause.” ‘** Nothing can excuse the shedding of human blood.” “Bah! We were his heirs, and when he re- fused to settle up the business he and I were once in together, and wouldn’t come to terms at all,it was time for him to go off the hooks, What did it matter? We were his heirs; we got the bulge on him before death’s ordinary instru- ments could; and he had outlived his usefulness, anyhow.” ‘* His blood haunts me!” Irad took his wife roughly by the throat, ‘“*T have a good mind to do you up!” he grated. She shrunk away. ** Don’t, don’t!” she gasped. His hand fell away, and he seemed to listen closely. ‘*Some one is stirring is the hall!” he mut- tered. ‘‘ Can that girl have—” He did not finish the sentence, A man ap- peared at the door, and watchful Paul grew wonder-struck as he saw it was no stranger to him, It was Mirabeau! The latter took one good look and then en- tered quickly, Other men came after him, and all were armed with revolvers—a stern and ominous-looking gang, truly, and not one any man would like to see in his home at that hour. ae rren presented his weapon at Russell’s ‘*Not one word if you would save your own life!” he exclaimed. The array of revolvers was not to be trifled with, and the fact was duly impressed on the mind of the observer. ‘We are here with a purpose,” added Mira- beau, ‘‘ and if you would live to see the sun rise, ou don’t want to interfere with that purpose. te) dg understand?” The nature of the man was expressed in the speech. It was stern, cold snd unfeeling—it told how inexorably he would follow out a pur- ose, and Russell was not slow to realize the act. There was something more than fear which moved the master of the house—at that moment there was no visible reason why he should be in dread of the revolver, since he was not directly threatened, but he stared at Mirabeau in speech- less terror. ** Are you disposed to yield?” added the in- truder. ** Are you an officer?” faltered Russell. Mirabeau could not see the signifiance of the question as Paul could, but he was quick-witted enough to find the key, in part, without much de- lay. His forehead knit for an instant, and then he coolly replied: ‘* Whatever I am, you are to obey me with- out a murmurif you want to live. Do you understand?” 4 Yes,” Russell’s meekness continued, and the visitor went on: ‘* You have the papers of one Seagrief, an ex- politician. Where are those papers?” ‘* What do you want of them?” ‘*That’s my business. You have only to hand them over. ‘Will you do so at once?” Unconsciously Russell’s eyes were turned to- ward the desk, and Mirabeau did not fail to understand, ** Break that thing open!” he ordered, ad- g his men. They moved forward promptly. Paul touch- ed Alice, “* Be we goin’ ter get beat out?” he asked, ina cautious tone. ‘*We must not—we must have them, our- selves,” she answered, with agitation, ‘ What can we do?” ; “Tt was just what Paul did notknow, Things had. been bad enough when the Russdfts came, but the addition of other men to the force op- directed d. roo peared posed to them was absolutely disheartening. Every one who desired the Seugrief papers ap- peured to have gained clew to their whereabouts, and the chase grew warm. How could Alice and he, alone, hope to fight against such odds? The men bad come prepared, and the task of searching the desk was but short. It was opened, and those who only desired the papers for selfish reasons were likely to gain the prize, while Alice, working with a praiseworthy mo- tive, had no chance, as far as could be seen. “Good!” commented Mirabeau. ‘*T’ll soon see what is there.” He advanced, but at that moment another voice suddenly sounded at the door: ** Hold!” The command drew the attention of all to that point, and Paul, looking with the rest, saw another familiar face. It was that of Avery! ‘*Stop where you are!” added the last speaker, sternly, ‘‘or it will be your last step on earth, Stop!” Silence followed the order. Avery and Mira- beau glared hatred, If mere looks had been deadly, great execution would bave been done then. A faint smile stole over Paul’s face; he thought he realized the situation, The two mea represented the rival political factions of tke hour—the factions that were trying to secure dead Seagrief’s papers for a selfish end, while the only unselfish seeker for the papers— Alice— was notin the competition. Paul smiled to see the two in rivalry, but a grave expression came upon the heels of the other, Was there chance for Alice? CHAPTER XVII, THE LAST STRUGGLE, MIRABEAU recovered his composure and re- sumed the old, cold smile which was so much, like ice. ‘‘May I ask,” he haughtily inquired, ‘ by what right you intrude here? ou are on private ground, and will be arrested if you do not get off of it at once,” His assurance was refreshing, but Avery was not disconeerted : ** You can spare your airs,” he retorted; ‘‘I know as much about thisas you do, Weare here for the same purpose, and the victory will go to the fittest. Spare your airs, I say, and let the winner be whoever ean get the lead,” And Avery looked at his superior force with confidence, Mirabeau turned to Russell, ‘*Order this man and his gang out!” he ected. If he expected his command to be obeyed he was mistaken; Russell was too much frightened to take sides with either, so remained silent. The parley was not continued. Avery had the superior force, and did not delay action, Motioning to his followers. as one man they sprung forward, and in a twinkling all were engaged in strife, It was to be noticed that nobody evinced a disposition to do bodily harm to his adversary, and the fight, warm as it was, did not threaten bloodshed. In this scrimmage Pau! saw his own chance. “Hold yer breath!” he whispered to Alice; then he stole lightly from the closet, His daring plan occurred to her, and she watched breathlessly. The desk was open, and the papers inside were exposed to view, There was now no one to gues them, so really the interior was open to his ban The bundles of papers were not numerous, and his attention was soon attracted to one package of somewhat impressive appearance, is he seized quickly. It was tied with a string, and on the wrapper he saw the words, in bold writ~ ing: ‘* SEAGRIEF, . “ Private Property.” Paul chuckled. He might be holding some- thing of no value, but he was quite of another opinion, He thrust the package into his pocket and turned to find Alice by his side, ‘Is it what we want?” she exclaimed, ‘‘ Yes, an’? the next thing we want is ter hustle!” he added, promptly. They did not tarry. There was no one to ob- struct their going, and they hastened from the m, ‘Out o’ doors in a twinklin’!” ordered Paul. ‘Don’t let no grass grow under our feet.” The plan was well laid, but, as they were de- the stairs an unexpected obstacle ap- n the shape of other men who were stationed at the foot thereof! ‘hey barred the way. scendin ‘and ‘or »
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P “You will stop right tere,” one of them an- - mounced, . - Not muck!” and the resolute boy sprung at the speaker, but only to be ruthlessly seized and speedily reduced to a state of helplessness. **Stay where you are!” was the cool order, Tt was hard luck, for it came at the moment when he thought escape assured. But, the young shadower was not at his wits’ end. He yet had a trump card to play. ‘*Say, we'll buy you off!” he declared. ‘Do you represent Mirabeau or Avery? An’ whatis your price?” The question was business-like, but it was met with silent disdain. Nota word of answer did a he get, and before he could think of another ee: dodge Mirabeau was seen coming down the iF stairs. ga He gazed at Paul and smiled. po _ ** What have you here?” he asked. ee ek ++ boy who tried to leave the house, sir. | __ According to your orders that we arrest every 4: one who tried to go out, we seized him and the young woman,” ; Mirabeau addressed Alice. i te * T think the boy is with you?” Be Se ‘* Yes,” she replied, mechanically, ‘ae ** Release them both!” ei: te The command was so unexpected that Paul could hardly credit the fact when it was obeyed. Mirabeau surprised all by smiling, ; 4 ‘‘ Miss Vanner, I suppose you think me a 3 traitor?” he added, MS ‘© You did desert me.” MEN *Doyou know why ” , “cc No, ? ie ‘*It was because I was not in full sympathy ‘with your plans, I was not opposed to them, but I had other interests. I have assumed the a ee vole ofa man bound up in political matters, 3 but, in point of fact, I care nothing for politics. Neither am I such a stern and zealous dis- ciple of narrow personal aims as youthink. In brief, I am a detective !” ** A detective!” gasped Paul, astonished. ae ‘“Even so! Ihave playeda part with you ey all, but, really it is nothing tome what becomes > & of the papers of James Seagrief. All this seem- Fe, ing interest on my part has been to hide other a things—the things which have actually occupied ae my time.” cn *¢ Then why have you assumed to be interested ‘in my affairs, and deserted me in the hour of my need?” Alice demanded, not by any means convinced, eERN! ‘*Because a certain case I was on brought mein contact with you and the things nearest ) your mind at that time. A detective cannot salways choose his ways. I deceived you, but you'll find it was not to do harm to your cause. Now I know all, you have my ct a and ll stand by you as loyally as you wish.” _ Ana your object?” ‘To learn who tried to kill—who had killed, I thought at one time, for I did not know the ctruth—Isaac Ogden, Irad Russell and his wife did this deed. They got rid of the body. Enough was seen and reported to me to put me on the track. From that hour Russell and his wife have been under my notice at all times—my amen have watched unceasingly.” “Yet, you talked of Seagrief’s papers—” ** Of course, since I learned of them as I went on, I care nothing for them, as if, as 1 think is ‘the fact, you have them there, you are welcome to them.. I did not know who had been as- saulted by Russell, and could not arrest the Jatter at once. Now, itseems that aman named Martin picked. Ogden up, and the latter still lives, Russell bas been arrested, and the law will take its course.” - Mirabeau was a very different person now, and asit dawned upon his hearers that he was what he claimed, the change seemed greater ; than ft wotld have done otherwise, _. ** We were all delayed,” he went on, *‘ by mis- - taking a certain Joyce for Isaac Ogden, I know Sataties Joyce, too. He was once Ogden’s ser- vant; but was dismissed long ago. When he was accused of being Ogden he dared say noth- ng because he had been dismissed from service _ a8 an embezzler, and to own up that he was the @x-servant, and had been mistaken for Ogden _ for that very cause, would have been to invite too much attention. He denied he was Ogden, _ but dared not say who he was, I have him ina safe and he has told all.” : s rok by mighty, mister. you’ve done well! eee ig ‘aul : ° __ “As for the cause of Russell’s attack onrOgden ‘I will say that Russell over-persuaded Ogden to put money into a business venture with him ‘Soo time ago, and when it went wsong Russell tried to have Ogden give him money 80 he would * We 1 ny Te alia De Raa rigs aR ig (5 eT Paul the Wharfrat. not lose anything. Ogden was no longer young, anc did not deal with the circumstances as he would have done when a younger man. He got frightened, and with cause—Russell tried to kill him, hoping to get all his money at one grasp, But Ogden lives, and Russell will for his crime.” All the rest of the house-intruders came down- stairs at that moment. Avery and his men were prisoners, and it was to-be,seen they had not dived in politics with success, Mirabeau let them go out of the house, under guard, without comment. ‘*Keep Seagrief’s papers,” he then added. ‘* His reputation sha]! be preserved. No good could be done by raking up old scores and old crimes, Let them be buried. You have the papers. Keep them!” The Pier Siadower was enthusiastic. ‘* Mister,” he declared, ‘‘ the more I think of it the more I reckon you have done well. Here’s my fin!” He extended his hand to Mirabeau gravely, and the latter smiled and shook the hand with cordiality. ‘¢ There are bigger fools than you, boy,” he admitted. ‘‘ You have established the fact that you have a plucky spirit and a shrewd wit, and I dare say Miss Alice will not see you want for a home in the future,” “‘T owe him much, everything!’ declared Alice. ‘‘He and I shall be friends from this time on.” ** Well said. Iset me add, Miss Vanner, that your malicious enemy, Mike, has been gathered in by my men, and he is not likely to go forth among his kind to annoy any one for some time tocome. I don’t see but your future is all right —thanks to Paul,” \ And when Alice remembered all Paul had done, she realized how true the ‘compliment singe = was resolved that he should be well re- Ww . . The detective’s prompt efforts put an end to the attempt to get Seagrief’s papers and make use of them, and no more was heard on that head. It was too late, anyhow, for Alice had seized the first chance and burned all that could have done any harm. The family honor was saved, and there the matter rested, Avery was not tried, for he was not so bad as he might have been, but Mike, Ben and Barnes went to prison in due time. ; Joyce and Ogden recovered from their in- juries. Joyce left the city at once, but Ogden continued to reside there, and when Russell was tried and convicted, his danger was over, Alice took charge of both Paul and Amy, and under her care a very different future was opened to both. Nothing of importance could be expected from simple-minded Amy, but Paul had the keenness and courage which foretold a life of usefulness and success, Under Alice's guidance and influence he soon found a place in a prominent shipping-house, and the gamin of the piers promises now to be- come the manager of piers and a water-front “chief.” ; THE END. Beadle’s Half-Dime Librarv. BY JO PIERCE. 897 Bob o’ the Bowery ; or, The Prince of Mulberry Street. 415 7 Vagabond Detective; or, Bowery Bob’s Boom.” 452 Wotsapur Bob, the Street-Boy Detective. 460 The Lawyer’s Shadow; or Luke’s Legacy. 472 Jaunty Joe, the Young Horse-King. _ 494 Surly Sim, the Young Ferryman Detective. 504 Five Points Phil, the Pavement Prince. 509 Jack Jaggers, the Butcher Boy Detective. Sis Tartar Tim; or, Five Points Phil’s Menagerie. 528 North River Nat, the Pier Detective. 588 Wrestling Rex, the Pride ofthe Sixth Ward. 641 Jeff Flicker, the Stable Boy Detective. 651 Nick Nettle, the Boy Shadow; or, The Old Well Mystery, 5659 Harlem Snack; the Office Boy Detective. ye 569 Brooklyn Ben, the On-His-Own-Hook Detective, 577 Pavement Pete the Secret Sifter, 6588 Jack-o’-Lantern, the Under-Sea Prospector. 408 Wide-Awake Bert, the Street-Steerer. 614 Whistling Jacob, the Detective’s Aid. 628 Buck Bumblebee, the Harlem Hummer. | 689 Sunrise Soul, the Express-Train Ferret. 49 Gamin Bob, the Bowery Badger; or, Scooping a Slippery Set, Ses Sky-Rocket Rob, the Lite-Saver. 688 Saltpeter Sol, the New York Navigator. 694 &piey Jim, the Only One of His Kind, 706 Tom Thistle, the Road-House Detectives Z1Z Mosquito Jack, the Hustler Gamin. 726 Denni« Duff the Brown Sport’s Kid. ig Dick of the Docks, the Night-W atch. aoe pipeer | mi ie aureet rege ‘ Sites be oxy Fred's ard; or, The Keener’s Huge Hustle,’ $81 Oast-Off Cale, the Scapegoat Detective. BY GOLONEL DELLE SARA, 108 The Lion of the Sea; ov, The Vailed Lady. 186 Cool Desmond; or, Tie Gambler's Big Gean, be duly tried . — BY ALBERT W. AIKEN, 11 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes ofa Bowery Girl. 76 Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. 7Y Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. 288 Joe Buck of Angels and His Boy Pard. 447 New York Nat. A Tale of Tricks and Traps in Gotham. 458 New England Nick; or, The Fortunes of a Foundling, 464 Nimble Nick, the Circus Prince. 498 Taos Ted, toe Arizona i the 510 Cool Colorado, the Half-Breed Detective. 618 Cool Colorado in New York: or, The Cowboy's Fight, BY JOSEPH E. BADGER, JR. 2 Yellowstone Jack; or, The Trapper. 48 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaw’s Retreat. 65 Hurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard. 119 Mustang Sam ; or, The King of the Plains. 4 186 Night-Llawk Kit; or, The Daughter of the Ranch. 144 Dainty Lance the Boy Sport. 151 Panther Paul; or, Dainty Lance to the Rescue. 160 The Black Giant; or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy. ! 168 Deadly Dash; or, Fighting Fire with Fire. 184 The Boy Trailers; or, Dainty Lance on the War-Path. 208 The Boy Pards; or, Dainty Lance Unmasks. 211 Crooked Cale, the Caliban of Celestial City. 810 The Barranca Wolf; or, The Beautiful Decoy. 819 The Black Rider; or, The Horse-Thieves’ League. 885 Old Double Fist; or, The Strange Guide 855 The King of the Woods: or. Daniel Boone’s Last Trail. ‘ 449 Kit Fox, the Border Boy Detective. 625 Chinecapin Dan, the Boy Trailer. 677 Chineapin Dan’s Second Trail, 688 Chincapin Dan’s Home Stretch. 698 Old Crazy, the Man Without a Head, TOS Light-Heart Lute’s Legacy. 718 Light-Heart Lute’« Last Trall. 728 Silverblade, the Shoshone. 729 Silverblade, the Half-Blood; or, The Border Beagle at Bay. 739 Silverblade, the Hostile; or, The Border Beagie’s Trail, 748 Silverblade the Friendly; or, The Border Beagle’s Boy Pard BY BUOKSKIN SAM (Major Sam. 8, Hall.) 284 Old Rocky's ** Boyees; or, Benito, the Horse-Breaker, 246 Giant George; or, The Ang’! of the Range. 275 Arizona Jack ¢ or, Giant George’s Pard. 297 The Tarantula of Taor; or, Giant George’s Revenge. 807 The Strange Pard; or, Little Ben’s Death Hunt. 818 cede bang Ker-whoo; or, The Tarantula of Taos. 827 Creeping Cat, the Caddo; or, The Red and White Parise, 882 Frio Fred; or, The Tonkaway’s Trust, $14 The Fighting Trio; or, Rattlesnake, the Tonkaway. 849 Wild Wolf; or, Big-Foot Wallace to the Front. $57 The Ranch Ratiders} or, The Siege of Fort Pargatory, 864 Snap-Shot, the Boy Kanger. 875 Chiota, the Creek; or, The Three Thunderbolts. 881 Bandera Bill; or. Frio Frank to the Front. 892 Romeo and the Reds; or, The Beleaguered-Ranch. 404 Little Lariat; or, Pecan Pete’s Big Rampage. 414 The Dalsy from Denver. 427 The Three Tratlers; or, Old Rocky on the Rampage, 442 Bluff Bills or, The Lynx of the Leona. 455 Little Lone Star: or, The Belle of the Cibolo. 684 Cache Carl, the Chico Giant. BY J. W. OSBON. 469 The Rival Giants of Nowhar’. 498 Cactus Burr, the Man from Hard Luck. 587 Old Buckeye, the Sierra Shadow. i 564 Powder Phil, the Boy Miner; or, The Man Without a Past, 609 Bolly Dorrit, the Veteran Detective. 620 Little Lightning’s League; or, The Mystery ofthe Island 688 beet ig & aul, the Boy Prospector. 751 Gold-Dust Dan, the Trail Patrol. 755 Gold Dust Dan’s Oath; or, Keckless Roy, the Regulator, BY OLL COOMES. 146 Kit Bandy, Detective; or, Silver Star, the Boy Knight, 168 Kit Bandy in Texas; or, The Young Mustanger. 208 Kit Bandy’s Catch; or, The Boy Hercules. 422 Kit Bandy’s Right Bower; or, Baby Sam,the Boy Giang 444 Kit Bandy’s Swoop; or, Little Buckskin, tue Centaur, 78 Kit Bandy’s Slick Scheme; or, Old Tom Rattler. 661 Kit Bandy’s Deliverance; or, Banner Bsn, 680 Kit Bandy’s Pard; or, Dauntless Dan, the Freelance. 791 Kit Bandy Rattled; or, The Iniant Giant, 795 Kit Bandy in Red Ruin; or, The Young Whirlwind. 799 Kit Bandy’s Big Rustle; or, Saddle King Sam. 804 Kit Bandy’s Brigade; or, Dan, the Mountain Guide. 158 Jack Drew, the Nemesis, or, Eagle Kit the Boy Demon, 182 Jack Drew’s Drop; or, Little Hurricane, the Boy Captains 202 Jack Drew in Deadwood; or, Prospect Pete. 27 Keen Knife on Guard; or, Antelope Abe, the Boy Guide. 81 Keen-Knife, the Prince of the Prairies. 5 Vagabond Joe, the Young Wandering Jew, 18 The Dumb Spy. 41 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. 58 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. 171 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. 74 HMawk-eye Harry the Young Trapper Ranger. 88 Rollo, the Bo anger} or, The Heiress. 184 Sure Shot Seth, the Poy Rifleman. . 148 Sear-Face Saul, the Silent Hunter. : 178 Old Solitary, tle Hermit Trapper. 218 Tiger Tom, the Texas Terror. 224 Dashing Dick; or, Trapper Tom’s Castle. 228 Little Wildfire, the Young Prairie Nomad. 288 The Parson Detective; or, The Little Ranger. 248 The Disguised Guide; or, Wild Raven, the Ranger. | 260 Dare-Devil Dan, the Young Prairie Ranger. 272 Minkskin Mike, the Boy Sharpshooter. 290 Little Foxfire, the Boy Spv; or, Old Caleb Arbuckle. 800 The Sky Demon; or, Rainbolt, the Ravger. 884 Whip-King Joe, the Boy Ranchero. 409 Rerenles; vr, Dick, the Boy Ranger. 417 Webfoot Moxe, the Tramp Detective. 457 Wingedfoot Fred 3 or, Old Polar Saul. f 468 Tamarac Tom, the Big Trapper Boy. Mees Stonewall Bob, the Boy Troan. ! Ps Blundering Basil, the Hermit Boy Trapper. | ( Don Barr, the Plains Freelance, 670 Norway Nels, the Big Boy Mountaineer. 778 Highland Harry, the Wizard Rifleman. BY CAPTAIN FRED. WHITTAKER. ) 15 The Sea-Cat; or, The Witch of Darien. 29 The Dumb, Page; or, The Doge’s Deughter. 48 Dick Darlifiz, the Pony Express Rider. 100 Lance and Lasso ; or, The Children of the Chaco. | 154 The Sword Hunters; or, The Land of the Elephant Riderug, 159 The Lost Med sh wy or, Skipper Jabez Coffin’s Cruise, ' 200 @ Boy Bedouins; or, The Brothers of the Plamed Lance | 214 Wolfgang, the Robber of the Pyhine. ; 249 Milo Romer the Animal King; or, Round the Worldt 265 The Tizer Tamer; or, The League of the Jungle, 881 Black Nick, the Demon Rider. ' 895 California Joe’s War Trail. A New Issue Every Tuesday. * The Half-Dime ts for ‘sala ‘Dy. ll Sewudsalane, eents per ote or sent wee yecuml ot tix iahieaths . sh ‘BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 4 98 William Street, New York 15
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BEADLE’S« H ALF- DIME*]_ IBRARY. Published Every Tuesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents, by all Newsdealers.. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, Deadwood Dick Novela. 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince ot the Road. 20 Deadwood Dick’« Detiance; or, Double Daggers. a5 Saas tai et s Ying seers or, Buffads Ben 5 ad woo ek in = Caatle. 42 Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza; or, The Phantom Miner. 49 Deadwood Dick in Danger; or, Omana Oll. 57 Deadwood Dick’s Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood Bar, 78 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity ¢ me, the Heroine t0b Deadeees Dents Lesdville > » ee 104 Deadwood Dick’« Device; or, The Double Cross Sign. 109 Deadwood Dick as Detective. 129 Deadwood Dick’« Double; or, The Gorgon’s Guich Ghost. 273 poscuees ot By omis Hogses or, Blonds Bill. end woo ek’s Big Strike; or, A Game of Gold. 156 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood: or, The Picked Party. 195 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road, 201 Deadwood Dick’« Ward; or, The Black Hill’s Jezebel. a t Doadweee BieW's veoe ie. wae Jane’s Adventure, end woo ck’s Dead Decal. 221 Deadwood Dick’s Veath-Plant. 282 Gold-Dust Dick, A Romance of Roukhe and Tougha, se mreewees at peride or, The Spirit of Swamp Lake. eadwoo ek’s Death Trall. B09 Deadwood Dick’« Deal; or, The Gold Brick of Oregon. 821 Deadwood Dick’« Pozen; or, The Fakir of Phantom Flate 847 Deadwood Dick’s Ducats; or, Days in the Diggings. pe op Sahat erence) or, The Terrible Vendetta, ck’s Claim, 405 Deadwood Dick in Dead City. 410 Deadwood Dick’« Diamo so 421 Deadwood Dick in New okt or, A “ Cute Case,” 480 Deadwood Dick's Dust; or, The Chained Hand. b at apy Melee 4 Sasi $4 ar Crimeon Crescent Sign. : eandwoo vick, Jr.'s, Deflance, 458 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’8 Full Wand. 459 Deadwood Pick, Jr.’s, Rig Round-Up, 465 Deadwood Dick Jr.’« Racket at Claim 10, 23h peadvecs mick, ore gornans or, Bozeman Bil). end woo ek r.’*, Dog Detective. aot pocsweed Dick. be in Deady ood, ead woo e r.’a, Compact. 496 Deadwood Dick’ Jr.’n, iuberftance. 600 Deadwood Dick, dra Di nee. 608 Deadwoed Dick, Jr.'s, Dell verance, 515 Deadwood Dick Jr.'s Protegee. 622 Deadwood Dick. Jr.’s, Three. 529 Veadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Danger Ducka, 524 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Death Hunt, Bit Deadwood pick, Brey the Wid West Vid . endwood ck re, the W vest Vi 6549 Deadwooa Dick, Sr. on Mle Mettle. 554 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Gotham, 561 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Boa«ton. 567 Deadwood Dick, Jr., In Philadelphia. 672 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Chicago. 578 Deadwood Dick. Jr., Afloat. 584 VDeadwooe Dick. vr... In Denver. 590 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’a, Decree, 595 Deadwood Dick Jr., in Beelzebub’s Rasin, ated Reoreces ja he alg ory by | ny ad BL pemeg eadwooc ek, drva, Leadville Lay. 612 Deadwood Dick, dr. in Detroit. | 618 Deadwood Dick, Jr. In Cincinnatl. €24 Deadwood Dick. Jr., in Nevada. 680 Deadwoed Dick, Jr., In No Man’« Land, 686 Deadwood Dick, Jr., After the Queer. 642 Deadwood Dick Jr.. in Buffalo. 648 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Chase Acrosathe Continent 654 Dendwood Dick, Jr., Among the Smugglers. \ 660 Deadwood Diek, Jr.’«, Luaurance Case, €66 Deadwood Hick, Jr., Back tn the Mines. 672 Deadwood Dick, Jdr., ta Durango: or, “ Gathered In.” ii eretoces ee Son persis « « ek, Jr.’a, Dazzle. ‘690 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s Dollars, 695 Deadwood Dick. Jr., at Danger Divide, 700 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Drop. T0O4 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Jack-Pot. 710 Deadwood Dick dr.» In San Francisco. 716 Deadwood Dick, Jr« Still Hunt. T22 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’.« Dominoes, TZS Deadwood Dick, Jr.’*, Disguise, %B4 Deadwood Dick. Jr.’s, Double Deal. 740 Deadwood Dick Jr.'s, Deathwatch. TAZ Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Doublet. T52z Deadwood Vick, Jr.’«, Deathblow. : J5S VDendwood Dick, Jr.’a, Desperate Strait. T64 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Lone Hand, T70 Deadwood Dick, dra Defeat. 776 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Resurrection, TSP-Dend wooa Dick. Jr's Dark Daya. TST Dendwood Dick Jr., Defied. T9Z Deadwood Pick, Jr.'s, Double Device, 797 Deadwood Dick, Jr’.«, Deaperate Venture, ‘) 802 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Diamond Dice. 807 Deadwood Dick Jr.’«, Royal Klush, 812 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’« Mend-off, 816 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Rival. 822 Deadwood lace? £ "4, Boom. R828 Dendwood Dick, Jr.’«. Scoop. 884 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Proxy. 840 Deadwood Dick, Jr’«, Clutch. 845 Deadwood Dick, Jr’) High Horse, 852 Deadwood Dick Jr., at Devila Guich. ba] nenawees phy are peat llustle. emi woo ck, Jr.’« Bombshell, 870 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Mexico. S76 Dendweod Bick, Jr’ Decoy Duck. S82 Deadwood Dick, Jr. in Silver Pocket. 891 Deadwood Dick. Jr.’«, Dend.Sure Game. 89S Deadwood Dick, Jr’a, Double Drive. 904 Deadwood Dick, Jr’«, Trade-Mark. 910 Deadwood Mek, Jr., at Tip-Top. 916 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s Bauble-Iecker 928 Deadwood Dick, Jr., at Dollarville. 984 Deadwood Dick, Jr.. at Flush Flais. 940 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Sneke-wp- 946 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’«, Double Drop. 95L Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Right Bower. 957 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Ten-Strike, 965 Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Gold-Dust, HTL Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Oath, _ 977 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’#, Death-Doom. BY WILLIAM R. EYSTER, 190 Dandy Parke}; or. The Tigers of High Pine. 210 Faro Frank: or, Dandy Darke’s Go-Down Parde S818 The Huatler Regue-Catcher, 888 Poker Pete’s Double Dodge, 851 The Tie-To Sport : or, High Hustling at Sinners’ Flat, 888 Monte Saul, the Sport. B01 Diamond Da ve, the Giit-Edge Shooter, & Dal ’« Dro rack-Shot my p> Pt: . vt in Velvet; or,, Big Bork’s Blof. 45 Billy Bird’s Bonanza: or, The Rook-Ravens’ Root-Ost. 962 Fifp-Fla 4 Pan red at Har 969 The Girl Sport-Shadower}; or, Clark’s Close Shave. 218 Other Novels by E. L. Wheeler. 80 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight. 84 Rosebud Rob on Mand; 88 Rosebud Rob's Rea 121 Rosebud KRob’s Cha 277 Denver Doll, the Detective Queen; or, The Yankee’s Surround 281 Denver Doll’« Victory; or, Skul! and Crossbones. 2X5 Denver Doll's Decoy ; or. Little Bill’s Bonanza, 296 Denver Doll's Drift; or. The Road Queen. 868 Yreku Jim, the Gold-G: the ery or, The Life Lottery, Prize; or, The Wolves of Wake-Up. or, The Rivals of Red Nese, Roles or, Bicycle Ben. 872 Yreka Jim’s 885 Yreka Jim's Joker 889 Yreka Jim’s New 894 Yreka Jim of Yuba Dam, 20Y Fritz, the Bound-Boy Detective; or, Dot Leetle Game, Fritz to the Front; or, The Ventriloquist Hunter 244 Slerra Sam, the Frontier Ferret; or, A Sister’s Devotion, Sierra Sams Secret; or, The Bloody Footprints, Sierra Sam’s Pard; or, 258 Sierra Sam’s Sevens or, The Stolen Bride. $84 Kangarov Kit; or, The Mysterious Miver. 889 Kangaroo Kit’« Racket; or, The Pride of Played-Out, 89 Death-Face, Detective; or, Life in New York. 69 The Boy Detectives or, Gold Rifle, the Sharprhooter, the Detective; or, Araba and Angels. Vick, the Sport Detective 145 Captain Ferret, the New York Detective. 161 New York Nell, the Boy-Gir) Detective. 226 The Arab Detective ¢ or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp. 291 Turk the Boy Ferret. 825 Kelley, Hickey & Co., the Detectives of Philadelphia, 848 Manhattan Mike, the Bowery Detective, 400 Wrinkles, the Night-Watch Detective. 416 High tat Harry, the Base Bal! Detective, 426 Sam Slabaides, the Beggar-Boy Detective, 484 Jim Beak and Pal, Private Detectives. 26 Cloven oof, the Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures, 82 Bob Woolf; or, The Girl Dead-Shot 45 Old Avalanche: or, Wild Edna, theaGirl Brigand, 58 Jim Bludsoe, Ir., the Boy Phenix. 61 Buckhorn Billy or, The Red Rifle Team 92 Canada Chet; or, Old Anaconda in Sitting Bull’s Camp. 118 Jack Moyle the Young Speculator. 125 Bonanza Lill 188 Boss Bob the 141 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent; or, The Branded Brows, 177 Nobby Nick of Nevaday or, The Sierras Scampa. 181 Wild Frank the Buckskin Bravo; or, Lady Lily’s Love. 286 Apollo Bill, the Trail Tornado; or, Rowdy Kate. 240 Cyclone Kit, the Young Gladiator; or, The Locked Valley. 278 Jumbo Joe, the Boy Patrol: or, The Rival Heirs, A No. 1, the Dashing Toll-Taker. 808 ’Liza Jane, the Girl Miner; or, the Iron-Nerved Sport, B8O Little Quick-Shot ; or, The Dead Face of Daggersville, B58 First-Class Fred, the Gent trom Gopher, 878 Nabob Neds; or, The Secret of Slab City. BS2 Coo) Kit, the Kirg of Kids; or, A Villain’s Vengeanee, Santa Fe Sal, the Slasher; or, A Son's Vengeance, 456 Sealskin Sam. the Sparkler: or The Tribunal of Ten, 918 Kit Ketth, t ¢ Reve: ue Spotter. 922 Sol Sharpe, the New York Night-Hawk. 9486 Old Hayseed Among Bunco Men, COW DRIOK. &ilver-Masak, the Man of Mystery; or, The Golden Keys, Shasta, the Gold Kings or, For Seven Years Dead, The Detective’s Apprentice; or, A Boy Without a Name, Cibuta Jonny or, Red-Hot Times at Ante Bar. Sandy Sam, the Street Scout, 467 Disco Dan, the Daisy Dude 506 Redlight Ralph. the Prince of the Road. The Engineer Deteetive; or, Redlight Ralph’s Resolve The Double Case 96 W atch-Eye 117 Gilt-Edged BY J. 548 Mart, the Night Ex 571 Atr-Line Luke t 592 The Boy Pinkerton; or, Running the 615 Fighting Harr 640 Rareback Ket 514 Broadway B 586 Broadway 57 Broadway 579 Broadway 605 Broadway 628 Broadway 669 Broadway 675 Broadway 687 Broadway 696 Broadway I 708 Broadway 711 Broadway Bil 868 Broadway 874 Rroadway 880 Broadway or, Idyl, the Girl Miner. pearance; or, Photograph Phil. enge; or, Cinnamon Chip. he Angel ot Big Vista. Miner; or, Madam Mystery, the Forger, ing of Bootblacks, ress Detective, e Young Engineer; or, the Chief of Chained Cyclone, » the Centaur of the Circle. 647 Tyrewrlter Tilly, the Merchant’s Ward. 659 Moonlight Morgan the “ Pizenest ’’ Man of Ante Bas. SST Battery Hob. the Doék Detective. 894 Arizona Dick's Wi 900 Jumping Jack's 906 Satety Sam, the Cyele Sport. 912 Train Boy Triat’s Hot Muatle, 918 The Trump I 924 Big Boota Bob, the 980 Kuatler Ralph, the Roy Spotter. 085 The Ex-Newsboy Detective’«s Chum. 941 The Bowling Green Detective’s Drop, 944 Cowboy Chartlie’« Double. 947 The Bowery W restler: or, The Butcher-Boy’s Backer. 958 Paddy's Trump Card; or, Silver Sallie, the Girl Sport. 960 The Broadway Sport: or, Fiver Fred’s Clear Onse. 96781000 Reward; or, The Rival Reporters’ Sleek Scoop, 978 Bantam Billy, the Corker-Ferret. 978 Plucky Pat, the Street-Boy Detective. 490 Broadway Billy, the Bootblack Bravo, _ ly’« Boodle; or, Clearing a Strange Case *pimkilty.” Biliy’s Peath Kacket. Fire-Laddte. Billy’« Bank Racket. Billy’s Bluff. c Hd Jersey Thugs. tLe Rilly’« Big Boom, Billy’* Big Bulge. Pp : or, The Bootblack Stowaway. Billy in London. Billy Shadows London Slums, Billy’s French Game. Billy and the Bomb-Throwersa. BY WM. PERRY BROWN, 956 Brooklyn Bob's Bulge: er, Dodger Dot’s Diamond Snap, 968 The Eaet-Side Spotter: or, Turning Down the Big Three 974 Old Sant’s Dark Deal; or, Miner Mat’s Iron Grip. ca beeen tk bas. EL BUFFALO BILL NOVELS, BY COL. PRENTISS INGRAHAM, 981 Buffalo BUls Fighting Five. 975 Bulfalo Bill's Rifle Shota. 963 Buffalo Bil’s Rush Ride; or, Sure-Shot, the High-Flyer. 964 Buffalo Bill's Decoy ; or, The Arizona Crack Shot 955 Buffalo Bill's awn a-Chase. 948 Buffalo Bill's Snap- shot : or, Wild Kid’s Texan Tallp 942 Buffalo Bill's Tough Tuasle. 9 Buffalo Bill’s Boy Mascot; or, Joe Jarvis’ Hold-up, 929 Buffalo Bill's Crack-shot Pard, 650 Buffalo BUl’s Boy Pard; or, Butterfly Billy. 216 Istson ILI, the Prince of the Reins, 222 Bison Bill's Clue: or. Grit, the Bravo Sport, BY BUFFALO BILL. 8 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand, 19 The Phantom Spy: or, The Pilot of the Prairie. 55 Deadly-Eye. the Saksows Scout; or, The Banded Brotherhood 68 Border Robin Hood; or, The Prairle Rover. 158 Fancy Frank of Cotorado}: or, The Trapper’s Trust, BY CAPT, ALFRED B, TAYLOR, U. 8. A, 191 Buffalo Billy, the Boy Bullwhacker. 194 Buffalo Bill's Bet: or, The Gambler Guide, - es BY COLONEL PRENTISS INGRAHAM. 982 New York Nat’s Drop: or, Ex-Ferret Sykes’ Bold Game 926 New York Nat and the Traitor Ferret. 920 New York Nat Trapped. a 914 New York Nat’« Three of a Kind, #08 New York Nat’s Double. 902 New York Nat’« in Colorado. 896 New York Nat in Gold Nugget Camp. S8Y New York Nat’s Deadly Deal, S88 New York Nat's Crook-Chase, S77 New York Nat’s Trump Card. STi New York Nut and the Grave Ghouls 865 New York Nat’ Masked Mascot. 859 New York Nat, the Gamin Detective, 858 Dick Doom’sa Kidnapper Knock-Out. 847 Dick Doom’s Ten Strike. 842 Dick Deom’« Flush Hand. 72 Wick Doom’s lcnth-Grip; or, The Detective by Destiny, T7777 Dick Doen’« Dcewtinys or, The River Blackleg’s Terror, |, 724 Dick Doom; or. the Sharps and Sharks of New York. 788 Dick Doom tn Boston; or, A Man of Many Maske. 798 Dick Doom tn Chicago. 298 Dick Doom in the Wild Weat. 808 Dick Doom’s Clean Sweep} or, Five Links in a Clue, 808 Dick Doom’s Reath Clue, S18 Dick Doom’s Diamond Deal. 819 Dick Doom’« Girl Mascot. 829 Dick Doom's Shadow Hunt. 885 Dick Doum’« Big Ueul. 749 Dashing Charlies or, The Kentucky Tenderfoot’s First Trai}. 756 Dashing Charlie's Destiny; or, The Renegade’s Ceptive. 760 Dashing Charlie's Pawnee Pard, 766 Dashing Charlie, the Rescuer. 497 Buck Taylor, King of the Cowboys. 787 Buck Taylor, the Comanche’s Captive. 748 Buck Taylor’« Boys; or, The Red Riders ot the Rio Grands, 560 Pawnee Bill, the Prairie Shadower. 718 Pawnee Bil); or, Carl, the Mad Cowboy. T19 Pawnee BRDV« Pledge; or, The Cowboy's Doom, 725 Pawnee Bill: or, Daring Dick. 692 Redfern’« Curtous Caset o, The Rival Sharps. 697 Kedfern at De yil« Ranehy or, The Sharp from Texas, T02 Redfern’s« High Mand; or, Bive Jacket. 207 Redfern’s Last Trail: or, The Red Sombrero Rangers, And Fifty Others, BY T. J, FLANAGAN, 909 Midshipman Dare, the Pirate Catcher. 925 The Young Cowboy Captain. 988 The Two Midshipmen; or, The Corsair-Chaser’s First Cruise. 949 The Three Lieutenants 95H 7P4 Hascet Midday oars Four Commanders, 966 Fight ack Shubric oF Fighting Sack’s Middies; or, Dandy Dick’s Dash. BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS. -Cat and Pardy or, The Dead Set at Silver City. eee feet pe Triads or, The Affair at Tombstone, 681 Tom Cat’s Terrible Task; or, The Cowboy Detective, 688 Tom-Cat’s Triumphs or, Black Dan’s Great Combine. 1 546 Captain Cactuaythe Chaparral Cock; or, Josh’s Ten Strike 568 The Dandy of Dodge; or, Rustling for Millions. 676 The Silver Sport; or. Josh Peppermint’s Jubilee. 588 Saffron Sol, the Man With a Shadow 601 Happy Hana, the Dutch Vidocg; or, Hot Timerat Round-Up 611 Biland Barnacle, the Detective Hercules. 646 Cowboy Gid, the Cattle-Range Detective. 657 Warbling William the Mountain Mountebank. 865 Jolly Jeremiahy the Plains Detective. 676 Signal Sam, the Lookout Scout. 689 Billy, the Gypay &py: or, The Wysters of Two Lives, 699 Siraple Sim, the Rroncho Buster: or, For Big Stakes, T12 The Meamert«t Sports or, The Mystified Detective, TBS Toltee Tom, the Mad Prospector. ‘ 745 Kanans Jim, the Crose-Cut Detective. 761 Marmaduke, the Mustanger Detective, 78 The Ruatler of Rolling Stone, 785 Lone Hand Joe, the Committee of One. 801 Kent Kirby, the Hich-Kicker from Killbuck. 882 The Doctor Dete etive In Texas. S72 Two Showmen Ictectives In Colorado. 987 The Texan Firebrand; or, Brazot Billy’s Soap, Shot 961 The Tramp’s Trump-Trick. < NEW ISSUES. 988 Buffalo Bill’s Lasso Throwers; or, Shadow Sam’s Short Stop. By Coi, P, Ingraham. 989 Bicycle Bob’s Hot Seorchs or, Shaking Up the Street- Steerers.. By J. C. Cowdrick. 990 Sheriff Huntway, of Montana; or, Steele Sharp Num- ber One. By Ed. A. Wicks. 991 Two Dudes from Doomed Camp; or, The One-Armed Boss of Shakedown, By T. C. Harbangh, JUST ISSUED. 988 Ranty Bily’s Bonanza ; or, The Bear-Tamer’s Disguise, By Win, R. Eyster. 984 Scaler Sam, Detective, of Hook and Ladder 6; or, Seorching the Sheeny Fire-bug, By Harold Payne. 985 Gideon's Bund; or, Jolly Jack in Mexico, By W. J. Ham- il ton. R6 dwood Dick, Jr.’s, Beat Card. By E L, Wheeler. Det Peat the Whartrat: or, The Detect{ve's Blind, By Jo Pierce, ‘A New issue Every Tuesday. . a The Half-Dime Library is for sale by al) five gente por copy, or sent by mati on receipt o1 six cents , BEADLE AND ADAMB, Pub 92 William Street, New York, Ser we ere wet ym porn — — *or i Ba Ss (28 a ak ee ay a oA nek fi re ee = —I— st « -