Beadle's New York Dime Library (no. 1103) (1905 12)
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’ key and a cat, ~ - mander died, and his burial followed, as has } 2 a seca His foe had been an English vessel nearly twice the size of the brig. The British tars had gained a footing upon the deck, and their leader would have cut down the wound- ed captain of the American: craft, when a mere boy had shot him through the heart. The fall of their leader temporarily stun- ned the English boarders, but they quickly rallied for a rush, which would have swept all before them, when the same youth, call- ing several sailors to his aid, swung around the pivot gun on the quarter-deck and fired it in the faces of the Britons. The English were swept down like wheat before a scythe, and the Americans regaining their) nerve beat them from the deck, the vessels swung apart and the brig was saved. The wounded captain was borne to his eT and, sending for the young sailor, he said: ‘Boy, you ssved the brig, and you saved me from instant death, for 1 cou!d not defend myself. ‘You are a foremast boy, and have been one of the worst imps aboard this vessel; but, you have it in you tomake aman whom your country will be proud of, and I, this day, appoint you acting midshipman, until you arrive in port, when my appointment will be ratified.” The bor’s eyes flashed proudly, and his face flushed with joy, while hesaid in a voice full of gratitude: ‘*T have been full of Old Nick, Captain Brainard, but I thank you most sincerely for your goodness to me and will prove by my acts appreciation of your trust in me.” He was a handsome lad of fourteen, well grown for his age with a face fearless and in- telligent. He turned as though looking for a kind word from the officers present, but not a hand was extended, not a word of congratu- lation spoken. The boy was unknown to all. He had swum out to the ship when she lay in the port of Charleston, South Carolina, and ask- ed to bejallowed to ship as a cabin-boy, Just such a boy was wanted and he was shipped for the berth, and no questions asked. He gave his name as Clover, and as such was known, and before the vessel was out of sight of land he began his pranks. | From the captain down no one was free from his mischief. He laughed at all pun- ishment and was finally sent before the mast, The crew had a pet bear, 4 parrot, a mon- These Clover adopted as his especial chums and from that day the men had no rest. - A pompous officer pacing the deck would be startled by the squeaking words: “‘Smart! smart! ain’t you smart?” He would flush up and order the parrot taken below, when it was discovered that the bird was not the culprit, but Clover. The monkey would be found often in the bunk of an officer, the bear had possession of the captain’s cabin one night, and only’ Clover could get him out; while the cat went skurrying among the men at mess one ny with a bottle tied to its tail. oor Clover was kept aloft most of the time, andein spite of all watchfulness-the monkey and the parrot would go up to keep him ec any. pz Such was the youth, dreaded by the senior officers, hated. by the midshipmen, but who was the pet of the crew. Now he had been romoted for his presence of mind and nerve a combat at sea. Captain Brainard through all his pranks had been his friend, and but for this fact Clover would have been dealt with far more severely. Sa is Appointed a midshipman, he had asked to take care of the wounded captain, and most tenderly had nursed bim; but, all in vain, for, after a few weeks of suffering, the eom- been seen. Not an officer on board would speak to Clover, unless in the discharge of duty, and he well knew, with the captain.gone, his would be a hard lot on that vessel. His trials aJmost immediately began, for the first officer, who was in command after Captain! Brainard’s death, bated the boy | most liberally, and the middies had nothing to fear from im, they knew. peer The Red Flag Rover. So they began their petty spite with in- sults, whereupon Clover promptly knocked the first one down who gave the offense. Another sprung to avenge the blow, and shared the same fate. Half a dozen then rushed in pell-mell to give the daring lad a thrashing which he would long remember; but a junior lieutenant stepped quickly to the rescue, with a feeling of fair play, and, mistaken for one of the -middies in the melee, was struck a blow by Clover's hard fist which sent him reeling to the deck. Instantly the commanding voice of the new captain was heard and silence reigned at once, The midshipmen told their story, which, of course, was all in their favor and against Clover, and their bleeding faces showed punishment at the hands of the young unfortunate. The junior lieutenant was smarting under his blow, so forgot to explain, and Clover was instantly ordered lashed up to the grat- ing to be struck thirty blows with the cat-o’- nine-tails, the commanding officer crying out sternly: ‘*T reduce you, Sir Mutineer, from the temporary rank given you, 2nd sentence you to the lash and then to go into irons for the remainder of the cruise. ** Master-at-arms do your duty!” Clover heard the command, and, quick as a flash, bounded up.the ratlines, pmsued by a dozen seamen, Along the yard the lad ran, still pursued by the sailors, and with a mighty leap sprung into the sea. And on the brig swept in the darkness, while, in the log the Jad was marked down as @ deserter, CHAPTER il. THE MEXICAN PLOTTERS. A SCHOONER-OF-WAR, flying the Stars and Stripes at her peak, had dropped anchor in the harbor of a town on the Coast of Mexico, and her captain, in the dress of a civiliaa, had gone ashvre to pass an hour or two as best pleased his humor. Entering the tavern he called fora bottle of Mexican wine, and drank it leisurely, unmindful of dark glances cast upon him by two gentlemen, one an officer of the Mexican Army, seated ai a table in a secluded corner of the room. ‘* You are sure that it is he?” asked one of the Mexicans. ee Yes, ” S rad ‘*Can you not be mistaken?” ‘Could I mistake one who has robbed me of my bride and fortune?” was the angry retort. ‘*? could not; but we can soon be = oo e ] by finding out if his vessel is in port, for + is a sailor, you said? ‘ “Yes, he commands a schooner-of- war,” The one he addressed called to a servant | and gave some direction in a low tone, The servant at once departed and in five minutes returned and said in a whisper: “ There is a schooner-of-war in the harbor, | sir, and she flies the American flag.” he, knew I was not mistaken,” the officer said. De gee Bl a 208 a ‘“‘Well, Captain Urbana, what are you go- ing to do in the matter?” asked the Mexican caballero, eat Rael. Fe ‘What can Ido, Senor Escalon?” “The lady in questi i “Worth a millio aA 4 8. 5 * ‘‘ Ab! then it must be the Senorita Rachel Ravera?? . 4! ‘It is she.” “I was sure that no other could be £0 rich,” 2a “No, and you see what I lose by having | ield Don Ramo I mon Ravera’s daughter an ld to that dog of an American?” to only chi what I would not do.” , ; “But what can I do?” petulantly asked the Mexican officer. ~~ bad Wy * Are they engaged?” 4 « Yes.” ; , ' “Tt cannot be broken off?” . Ni **No, for the old Don is also interested In the American, he having saved the lives of himself and. daughter.” “ Ahtf it began with romance; that is bad, for love matches are hard to break off.” “Yes, a lagoon buccaneer swooped down restion is rich, you said?” Small — upon Don Ramon’s hacienda on the coast one day and captured the fair Rachei, intend- ing to hold her for ransom. : The Don pursued with a large force in a goleta and overhauled the pirate near the mouth of the lagoon where he had his haunt. “It came on a dead calm, and the pirate felt that he would be taken and lose his prize, so threatened to kill the maiden if at- tacked, and unless his price of ransom was paid. ‘‘Just then that American officer, whose vessel was in the Jagoon at anchor, dashed out in his boats, captured the pirate, and— well, I’ve said enough to sbow that I was given the cold shoulder just as I deemed myself the lucky winner of the fair Rachel’s hand, and yonder is my successful rival,” and the Mexican officer nodded toward the table where the American sailor sat compla- cently sipping his wine, all unmindful of the fact tha the was the object of angry glances and comment. ‘Well, you lose a fortune if you allow him to marry her?” ‘* Yes, not to speak of the loveliest woman in Mexico with it.” “True; but will you submit to it?” ‘What can I do, L asked you?” “What will you do if you’ don’t marry her?” ‘Go to ruin, financially, socially and as a soldier.” ; ‘So bad as that?” asked Senor Luis Esca- on. ‘Yes, for you will advance me no more money.” ‘*T cannot without security.” ‘‘Then you see my situation.” _ “It is bad, but 1 believe you can better it. ” \ ‘* Just tell me how?” “‘Tf the American was out of the way?” ‘© Well?” “Could you win?” “Yes, for 1 am not known to be on the verge of ruin, as 1 am, and as you well know.” ‘“ Perhaps better than any one else, I know it, Captain Urbana; but let us see if we can- not get rid of this American.” “7 am willing.” ** You are considered the best swordsman ia Mexico.” : ‘*T have no equal,” was the proud reply. “Then we must pick a quarrel with the American, a challenge and duel will follow, and of course you will kill him.” “Yes, but will not that cause the fait Rachel to hate me?” ‘It might, and to. fond against it, you ‘must, first cause her to Geepise her lover.” ‘How can that be Gone?” ~ ‘He will of course go from here to the monte bank to play.” = “Yes, naturally, for these Americans are bold gamblers.” ~ “Do you know him personally, or, that is, have you ever met him?” a ree mm te IN Oo Ve “Then he does not know you by sight?” ce 2 Does the ‘Senorita Rachel know that you ‘are aware of this engagement between her- self and the American?” She does not.” -“'Phen she will feel that you had no mo- , Senor Captain Urbana, you yield | tive in this quarrel,” ou will waive the fact that he 4 a ee ie ied the lady?” — ‘Well, we will put that in writing tain Urbana, and until she is your will enable you, by advancin # keep up your ust style; but 1 i we 4 i=) 5 a ° rh. oe e Q f=-] ee So ° 3, i a2. 2 pe ti ze ¢
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neat eee en — a ee one ane ROOT ee EE ne ES Sie IE RE The Red Flag Rover. | 3 generous ransom from Don Ramon Ravera, | “Santa Maria! it is the —- Roverf* paid for the return of his beautiful daughter, | shouted Don Ramon Ravera, for it was thé would just make my losses even.” master of the hacienda, returning from Ha- ‘*Hal you are a pirate!” and Rachel | vana with the beautiful yacht which he had turned deadly pale. had built there. ‘**Pirate is such e harsh word, senorita, 1 The goleta was now in full view on the beg you to say a free rover.” starboard tack, and holding directly toward ‘7 will leave you, Sir Pirate, and I warn | the Mexican yacht. ou away from Gulf View Hacienda, for we But quickly she discovered the stranger, ave a large force here.” and went about, and thus her course was mand jusi one-fourth of her fortune in pay- ment.’ ‘* Caramba! you will ruin me.” ‘No, I will keep you from ruin, gain you a fortune, of which I only ask one-fourth, and I am the one to take all chances. ‘* But now to keep my eyes on this Ameri- can—ah! as I thought, he asks the way to the Monte Casino,” and the two Mexican plotters followed the American sailor from the salon and saw him enter the fashionable cienda. Rachel Ravera shuddered, but walked The wind grew lighter each minute, and pci Me ! A peon servant was seated near her, | resolutely toward the goleta. the pirate .captain gazed anxiously at the og ft lazily waving a fan over the young girl, who| Another minute and she was a captive | pursuers and seemed to dread being over- ee .. ‘a had a book in her hand, yet was not reading. | on board, while the pretty craft at once | hauled. , ae P. That the maiden was one of Mexico’s | swung clear of the wharf and began to beat Seated in a chair on deck was Rachel a _ jaunty hat a gambling hall of the town. CHAPTER IIL A FAIR CAPTIVE. _ Upon the shores of an inlet of the Mexican Gulf, and in the sunny Jand of. Mexico, stood a grand old hacienda, the home of one of the richest rancheros in the country. It was a home of luxury and elegance within doors, and with all that was beautiful without, for its cultivated fields stretched away upon all sides, and beycnd were the pasture lands dotted with droves of cattle and horses. A walled-in flower-garden of several acres was upon the left of the hacienda, with a forest to the right, and a sloping lawn shaded here and there by majestic trees stretched away to the water of the iittle bay in front. Beyond, through the pass into the inlet a glimpse of the blue Gulf was visible to the eyes of a maiden who was lying in a ham- mock swung upon the broad piazza which was built along the front wall of the ha- fairest dhughters, a glance would show, and = she seemed unconscious of her exquisite oveliness of faee and form, though proud of the fact that she was the daughter of a noble line of. Mexican and Castilian ancestry. The peon girl suddenly started to her feet, with the cry in Spanish: * Santissima ! Senorita Rachel, there comes the senor!” _ Tbe maiden arose from the hammock quickly and gazed seaward, while the peon ran to a bracket near, and took from it a glass, which she brought to her young mistress. Coming into the inlet she beheld a trim- looking goleta, under full sail. ‘“‘ Yes, it must be father in his new yacht, and she is a beautifui craft. “Get my sun-hat and shade, Irma, and we will go to the shore to meet him.” The peon git! hastily obeyed, bringing a ni pink sun-shade, and the two walked down toward the shore, with the air of those who were upon terms of friendship, in spite of the fact that they stood in the re- lationship of mistress and maid. Irma, the peon, was a very pretty girl, dark-faced, black-haired and with large, glorious eyes. Her form was trim, and like her mistress ' she was clad in the picturesque Mexican cos- tume. By the time they reached the shore the goleta had crossed the inlet, quickly, under a fair wind and glided gracefully alongside the little wharf. dan Then, as several men sprung ashore, ae oe orita Rachel Ravera came to a sudden 12 , while Irma uttered a startled ery: “Tt isnot my father in his new yacht—let us return, Irma,” said Senorita Ravera, “Pardon, lady, but one word with you.” - The speaker raised his sombrero, and stepped before the maiden, who started back, / for she seemed to dread evil. brass twelve-pounder upon either broadside | ‘‘ Yourself, senorita, for if t attempt to _He was a young man, with a dark, hand- | and amidships, and a pivot eighteen mounted | rescue you when I order them off, by Heaven — some face, reckless and determined, and he ‘‘They are unable to protect. you from Lamonte, the Rover of the Lagoons.” ‘‘Lamonte! the scourge of the coast! Holy Mother protect me! Are you that monster?” “‘T am Lamonte, Senorita Ravera, and you are my prisoner,” and the man sprung to the side of the maiden and grasped her firmly by the arm. In an instant Irma, the peon, had dashed away like an arrow. Lamonte the Rover called to her loudly: “Hold! or I will kill you, girl!” © Irma heeded not, but ran on like the wind. ‘* Kill her, or she will alarm the force, who will follow in yonder lugger!” yelled Lamonte. In response several shots were fired after the retreating girl, who still sped on, appar- ently unhurt. ‘* Will you come with me willingly, senor- ita, or shall I use force?” “Do not touch me, and I will go with you, as I can do nothing else.” to sea, just as an alarm was sounded up at the hacienda, which the peon girl had al- ready reached. CHAPTER IV. THE PIRATE’S THREAT. InmA, the peon girl, had quickly spread the alarm, and a score of armed vagueros belonging to the place and a couple of dozen servants about the hacienda were soon run- ning down toward the shore to board the lugger, which lay at anchor off the little wharf. | It was the freight craft of the ranch, to bring supplies from Vera Cruz, but the cabin was well fitted up, for the use of the Don and his daughter when going to the town, and there were a couple of guus on board for protection, with a number of small- arms. She skipper of the craft was a peon, and his crew consisted of a dozen men of his own race. These were now hastening on board, for. when not voyaging the peon crew were en- gaged in duties ashore. ‘hey were soon on the decks, the anchor and sails set, and running in tothe wharf, they took on board the vaqueros and servants until they numbered twoscore well armed men. The guns were cleared for action, and then aimed at the flying goleta, now nearly to the inlet pass, and beating out to sea. The roar of the gun was heard on the deck of another goleta, which was sailing along the shore, a league distant. _ It was a beautiful craft of sixty tons bur- den, with the rake and appearance of a Spanish yacht, such as were owned. by wealthy Cuban planters. Upon her deck was a swarthy-faced crew of a dozen men, and she had four guns, a fore and aft. There was an awning aft, and under it sat a distinguished-looking man of fifty, whose | no ange indicated Spanish and Mexican ood. The sound of the lugger’s gun in-shore caused him to start to his feet, and then he said, addressing a man who appeared to be an under officer: ; ‘“They have seen our bs ere Juarez, gi and are saluting us with the lugger’s guns. “Yes, senor, but see there!” and the mate te to the sharp prow of the Lagoon irate, which just then shot shaped so as to clear the other point by a close shave on the port tack, and so reach the open waters of the Gulf. The lagoon craft was a trifle larger than the Mexican yacht, and armed with a battery of six twelves and two pivot long-range uns, while her crew numbered half-a hun- red men, Just as she gained the pass and went about, it brought her stern in position to open upon the pursuing lugger, and this she did; but though hit and evidently damaged to some extent, the lugger held on. As she was armed she gave a broadside upon the yacht with her three twelves, and then had a chance, when headed up the coast, to open with her stern pivot-gun. But then, though within range, she ceased firing at the yacht, and for some reason un- pes sage a opened upon the pursuing lugger only. It then developed into a stern chase, with the yacht creeping up slowly on the Lagoon Pirate and the lugger barely holding her own. Ravera, anxiously regarding the situation, and watching every move of the pirates. “The yacht is overhauling you, senor, so my captivity will be short-lived,” she said quietly. ‘*Be not so sure of that, Senorita Ravera,” was the smiling response. “My father’s crew and that of the lugger , outnumber your force greatly. a : “The battle is not always to the strong, senorita,” and the confident manner of the buccaneer caused Rachel to feel even more ane Why did fi father’s “* Why di uu stop firing upon my father’s — may ? ask, Senor Pirate?” said chel Ravera after a pause of some minutes. ‘For the reason that I do not care to kill the goose that lays the golden egg,” was the enigmatical response. “Ah! I think I understand by your remark that you do not wish to kill my father.” . \**Exactly so, for he being dead could not pay his daughter’s ransom.” “And my father has seen me on board, so does not fire upon you, for I see that his yacht is armed.’ on ** Yes, and a fleet sailer too. “Tn fact, I think I shall have to demand with my ransom an exchange of vessels, for I did not know before that the Lady of the Lagoon, as I call my vessel, senorita, had a superior in speed.” Mes ‘* Well, senor, my idea is that the wind will die out and my father will rescue me from you,” was the confident reply of the brave Mexican girl. “No, he shall not take you from me, senorita, for I have the means to keep him off in calm or storm.” “May I ask what means you have that I ‘ do not see?” ; they shall have only your dead body,” was the threat of the Lagoon Pirate, | CHAPTER V.. ~ A CRUEL ALTERNATIVE. ; ‘Tuer startling threat of Lamonte the Lagoon Rover, caused Rachel Ravera to — turn very pale, yet she did not lose her nerve. |. = “* Are you a Mexican, senor?” she asked coolly. | ee YL eM Aen sf 2 “No, senorita, I am an American, or rather was.” ; * ape “ You speak Spanish perfectly?” Sense: ana 4 eremiglt 5 epee rs AN (ote sb. Gers 5-8 l into view be- ap ‘ at 2 Pet eis oe _ | yond the hea Alysw6oded point ot Wad which | ‘‘Llearned it ina hard school, I have had hard luck of late, | formed one arm of the pass intothe hacienda} ‘‘ Well, Senor Pirate, as gold is ‘God, — . ‘‘harborage. == ss Fand you take human life and eommit crimes” Syne
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to get it, let us come to terms, for I can buy | my freedom as well as my father.” a ‘“You might not value yourself so highly | re as your father does.” | “Well, what price do you set upon me?” ‘¢The Don is said to be about the richest | man in Mexico, and you are his only child, | he so I think fifty thousand pesos are a fair sum Ef to ask for you.” ‘It is a most exorbitant price, and I am | not worth near so much.” “Your father wili think you are.” “T’ll_ give you half the sum for my re- lease,” ‘“Where is the money, senorita?” “JT will give you a draft on my father’s | bankers for the amount,” “They would not honor the draft.” | ‘Lay to, signal the yacht and lugger to do the same and take my draft to my father for his indorsement.” ‘‘Yes, and be seized the moment I board- | ed his yacht.” ‘**Go under a flag of truce.” ay “A white flag is no protection to me who | sail under the black flag, Senorita Ravera.” ‘“My father is an honorable man, and would respect the flag, sir, even if it shielded a pirate.” | “Doubtless, but then I shall not give him the temptaticn to capture me.” ‘‘Then send a messenger.” ‘No, 1 shall take you to my retreat and then send him a messenger, bearing to him letters from you and me. “You can explain the situation fully, and Tcan make my demand.” ‘* Of fifty thousand pesos, sir?” ‘‘Well, | named that sum, but your nerve . under most trying circumstances, your Sh . beauty in fact, are winning me to regard you so highly that [ shall test your father’s love for you by naming a much larger amount— say a hundred thousand pesos.” ‘* He cannot pay it.” ‘He is worth a million, or more.” ‘You seem well informed; but granted that he is, in lands, cattle and personal | effects, it would cause him heavy loss, in- deed, to sacrifice them for cash.” ‘Well, he must either pay my price, which 1 will now raise to one hundred and fifty thosand esos, for I am becoming more ey, and more infatuated with your loveliness, again senorita, or he must. abide by the alterna- ” ‘* And the alternative is what, senor?” The Lagoon Rover gave some order to an mom whom he called to him, and then re- ied: ‘With the sum I demand, senorita, 1 can return to my home and become an honored member of society, for no one need know that I won my riches through piracy.” «* Your conscience will know, senor.” ‘*‘T have done away wiih conscience in the bic ; long ago, lane ‘“Tam, as | told you, an American, and I became a pirate because one I loved and trusted gave me up, a poor lad then, fora rich man. ‘<T am revengeful, and would return and show her that I too had money, that I was as proud as Lucifer—in fact would I make her suffer and feel that she had wronged one who can never forget,” and the face of the Rover grew clouded and angry. ‘Where is your manhood to avenge your- self upon a woman?” ‘She wronged me, she made me what I am,” he answered, bitterly. y “You were weak, indeed, to wreck your life fora woman who was false to herself and her love.” ‘I believe you, senorita, are different, and that is why I Jove you.” “ Sir’ and the eyes of the captive girl flashed fire. ok ia, ‘‘Pardon me, [ Wee 3 now that only a quarter of a million pesos «eae ee will pay me for giving you back Sigad to oy ts your er. “J shall, as I said, take you to my strong- r hol d—” ; { a but it is true, and I tell you Roe ~ you wil | saa eager to You father with my demand for oe the ransom ED mamed.” 0h yo Sse ve the refuset” give him then—” = ‘ | Amarican, then let me. tell _give my father time to pay the fortune you The Red Flag Rover. enna ——————— “Then, Senor Pirate?” asked Rachel, as he paused.” ““Then, senorita, if he does not redeem you, then you shall redeem me.” J do not understand you, senor?” ‘‘T shall change my evil career for one of honor, I shall devote my life to you, and in fact, you shall become my bride, Senorita Ravera.” ‘A pirate’s bride! Heaven have mercy upon me?” fairly groaned the young girl. And then she clasped her hands and rais- ing them toward him in supplication cried: “Ah, senor, you say that you ‘are an you that my mother was an American also, and for her sake spare me, the child of your country- woman. “ You shall have your ransom if you will aT | demand of him; but do not threaten me with a fate so terrible as becbming your wife. I would sooner, far sooner, have you kill me, rather than such an alternative,” and Rachel buried ber face in her ‘hands and burst into tears, while with a deep impreca- tion the pirate turned away, just as the flap- ping sails told him that a calm had fallen upon the sea, CHAPTER VI. THE OUTLAW'S DEMAND. Don Ramon’s glass had revealed to him very quickly the cause of the pursuit of the irate by the lugger, for he had discovered nis daughter upon the deck of the goleta. He had at once signaled the crew of the lugger to cease firing, ‘knowing that in their anxiety to cripple and overhaul the pirate, that they overlooked the fact that their fire might kill his duughter. . For this reason, too, he did not open fire, yet could not understand why the Lagoon Rover did not open upon his vessel. He was glad to see that his yacht was overhauling the lugger rapidly, and also creeping up with the outlaw craft, and he decided, as he passed the slower vessel, to take on board her crew, all excepting a working force. As he drew near the lugger, he hailed and gave the necessary orders, and as the sharp prow of the yacht ran up to the quarter of the heavier craft, the men on board threw themselves upon the deck of the pretty goleta. Then, when cast loose, she swept by the lugger and began to overhaul more rapidly the pirate vessel. Irmia, the peon, had gone on board the lugger, and also boarded the yacht, so that Don Ramon Ravera heard from her lips all about the kidnapping of his daughter. The peon eat was wounded, too, slight- ly, in the arm, but paid no heed to it and said, when the Don set to work to dress it for her: “Do not heed me, senor, for I am all right. “But I ran away to alarm the vaqueros and crew of the lugger, hoping they could capture my loved lady.” ‘You are a brave girl, Irma, and but for you I would not bave known that my child was the captive of a pirate. ‘Ah! I fear the wind will leave us; but if it does I can go to the rescue in the boats,” ‘and Don Ramon glanced anxiously out over the waters. , At last the wind died utterly away, and then the Don was about to give the order to get the boats ready for an attack upon the pirate craft, which lay but three-quarters of a mile distant, when Juarez said: ‘Pardon me, senor, but the lugger has sweeps and is heavily timbered so you could creep up to the pirate in her and board, where in the boats the men would be terribly exposed to the guns of the outlaw.” ‘You are right, Juarez, and I will try that plan, so signal the lugger to come up under the sweeps.” \ This was done and the yacht was anchor- ed, so that every man on the attack in the heavily built lugger. ‘Then the lugger, under her four beavy sweeps began to creep slowly over the placid waters toward the pirate. ee If the young Rover felt anxiety for the ‘result he did fate Ske board could go to} t not show it, and Rachel watch- | cdot on ct que aaa the ordered his men to their gung-and then ‘ disho saying something in a low tone to his sub- 0 a altern, which Rachel did not hear, took his place near her side and calmly gazed upon the approaching lugger. With the light wind that had prevailed, the inflowing tide had borne the three vessels near the shore, and Lamonte was at last com- pelled to give an order to drop the anchor. The Goleta was just off the mouth of a lagoon, heavily wooded and whose sluggish waters were being forced back by the tide. . The yacht was three quarters of a mile distant down the coast, and like the pirate not over a third of a mile from the sore, the hacienda harbor lying astern some ten miles distant. The lugger, creeping upon her prey under the fall of her four heavy sweeps, each mained by two men, was almost within hail- ing distance of the pirate. / With his glass in hand Lamonte watched the coming foe with a smile upon his lips which gave Rachel real cause for alarm. Her father had been a Mexican naval offi- cer and in one of his cruises had touched at Charleston and there met her mother, then @ reigning belle of that Southern city. A year after he came back there to claim oe his bride, having resigned from the Mexican ae Navy in which he had won distinction; and at the grand hacienda on the coast Rachel was born and her mother died while she was yet a mere child. Rachel knew that her father was brave to rashness, and with his child in the power of an outlaw, he would fight desperately for her rescue, so her heart was full of fore- boding as she saw the lugger coming slowly toward the becalmed pirate vessel. ! Suddenly, as the lugger came within hail, loud rung out the’ voice of Don Ramon, as it often had upon the quarter-deck of the, cruiser he had commanded: “Lagoon Pirate ahoy!” . *‘ Ho the lugger!” responded Lamonte, “You have a captive on your vessel?” \ **T have.” “Tam Don Ramon Ravera, and the lady in your power is my daughter.” “7 know that well, Don Ramon Ravera, for that is why I made her my captive.” | ‘* Surrender her at once, for I do not wish to attack you with her upon your deck to shield your crew from my fire.” “Send me your draft on your Havana _ bankers for a quarter of a million pesos, and ne give me your pledge of honor not to follow ath in my wake for forty-eight hours after I sail from this anchorage, and I will restore your daughter to you,” was the cool demand of the Rover of the Lagoons. CHAPTER VII. A ORUEL ORDEAL. ~ Don Ramon Ravera was astounded at the cool demand of the Rover of the Lagoons, Could he mean to require as a ransom a — large fortune for the restoration of his daughter? 4 . e had dreaded that Rachel should be in ; the power of one so vile, and hoped that it = was for a ransom that had caused him to kidnap her. f a es Gladly would he have given ten, or twenty thousand pesos and felt that it was money = well spent to get her so soon out of the clutches of the cruel Rover of the Lagoons. Buta quarter of a million pesos was nearly a ap of his whole fortune. ai n Mexico, Havana and New Orleans, — where he banked his money, he had not in cash one-third that sum, an it would cause adelay of weeks to raise the sum and the sacrifice to be made to get it would cause = him a loss of nearly as much more, As he kept silent after the demand, lostin amazement, Lamonte hailed: he «Ahoy, the Sea Arrow. 3 gaa Here was a surprise to the Don, for the pirate knew the name of his yacht. ren “Ho, the pirate,” came the angry re- mse, t et Did you understand my demand?’ "ee “A quarter of a million pesos, you said?” g f “Yes, Don Ravera.” “Tt would take a long time to raise such ny sum.” A . pe Hie ye «Your daughter is worth every peso of it o me,” a "6 “ And every peso I own to me, Sir but Tcanget jive you drafts which dishonored, and it will take perhaps 5
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mouths to place the money you demand in the banks,” **T cannot wait.” —_ Ae = = ap ee eA a eR NN Ts me Rn —_° veh, theta PRP Bee aS Ue > RE OM Faye are Be pc emer mr ee — ise a et et eS ee rs 5 | the last shot which could be turned upon : their foes before reaching the vessel, and loud Red Flag Rover. CHAPTER VIII. BLUE-JACKETS TO THE RESCUE. Don Ramon was appalled at the danger, to | rung the order of Lamonte! his child. “pe “Then I shall take my child from you at e the point of the sword. Could not the officer in the boat see that | : ag ‘Give way there at the sweeps!” his daughter stood there on the bulwarks of hie The heavy sweeps fell with a splash into | the goleta, with a noose about her neck, her ( the sea, but a moment after the voice of the | hands bound behind her and the other end . Rover was heard with startling distinct- ness: ‘** Cease rowing at those sweeps! ‘‘Don Ramon, do you value the life of your daughter?” The peons at the sweeps involuntarily obeyed the order of the pirate, and the lug- ger once more ceased to move onward. ‘‘How dare you ask such a question, Sir Pirate?” answered the Don. ‘“ Will you pay the ransom I demand, and , § a! at once ?” ae ‘‘T cannot.” __. ‘* You are worth millions.” ae ‘‘T cannot raise such a sum in weeks.” ms 3 ‘““Then your daughter is worth to me >a more than the sum I demand, and shall be- a come my wife.” ‘‘ Ho! incarnate fiend that you are, I shall tear your tongue from your throat for those words,” cried Don Ramon, now maddened with rage, and without ordcrs the sweeps fell again, and the lugger once more moved on. ‘‘Hold! hold, I say!” cried the Rover, well knowing that the heavy bulwarks of the lugger would protect her crew, and that his men would be outnumbered ard cut to pieces. “ But the crew at the sweeps were urged on by Don Ramon, who was,now determined to parley no longer, and the mcn on the lug- ger were as equally determined as their eader to rescue the beautiful girl from her danger, and show no mercy to the outlaws. But suddenly a cry of horror from Juarez caused Don Ramon to cry out in piteous ac- _ cents to the men at the sweeps to cease row- ing, and all eyes were turned upon the 3; pirate vessel. r. There, visible to all eyes now, was Rache’ ae Ravera standing upon the bulwark of the goleta, and by her side stood the Rover of 3 _ the Lagoons, his hand upon her arm. B Eps But that was not the worst of the painful scene, for about the neck of the beautiful Bs. car 4 irl was a noose and the rope, rove in a ee: lock at the end of the lateen yard, extended : to the deck, where the other end was grasped by half a dozen Lagoon Pirates, ready to drag her into eternity at the command of their cruel commander. ‘‘Now, Don Ramon, dare to attack me and I will give the order to my men to this minute end your daughter’s life,” cried the Rover of the Lagoons, Eat It was apn appalling situation, a fearful moment to the poor father, who gazed in silence upon his child, her arms pinioned ' behind her back, the noose about her neck, as she stood there npon the bulwark, by the of the rope held by relentless pirates? Could he not see the cruel Lamorte stand- | ing by her side, his hand upon her arm to support her? And yet, if the officer leading the attack- | ing party did seethe fearful danger to Rachel | Raveta he did not heed it, but still came in. Then the voice of the pirate chicf was heard: ‘Back with thase boats! cease rowing, or I hang the girl!” | But, no response came from the officer; | the boats still rushed on at a terrific speed, : the oars bending under the mighty strokes of the oarsmen. **Ho! those boats! Back, I say, or take the consequences!” shouted Lamonte, And loud came the cry of entreaty from Don Ramon for the officer to heed the warn- ing. Tie would have given every peso he pos- sessed and become a beggar rather than pre- cipitate such a fate for the idol of his heart. | But the American officer heeded not the threat of the pirate nor the appeal of Don Ramon, but urged on his blue-jackets to the attack. The boats almcst sprung from the water at each tremendous stroke of the oarsmen; while, calm and determined, swaying with | the movement of the cutter, the officer stood, | hiss word pointing toward the pirate craft. | He was a young man, dressed ina well- | fitting uniform. His face was stern, reso- | lute, fearless—a face to win admiration from men and women alike, one to inspire confi- dence as a leader. His physique was that of an athlete, and his movements quick and decided. In the boat with him was a midshipman at the tiller, eight oarsmen, and a dozen men armed With cutlasses and pistols, Each of the ether boats was commanded by an officer, and were urged on by six and four oars respectively, having besides a force of from eight to ten men, so that the attack- ing party was some fifty strong. Finding that he did not check the coming ‘boats, Lamonte called out: . *T{o, those boats! I'll give the girl up if you will not attack me!” Still the same silence from the leader of the American blue-jackets, and in despair the pirate sprung from the bulwarks and or- dered his men to fire. His captive was forgotten in the danger to himself, his crew and vessel. She stood upon the bulwarks, lcaning against the ratlines, and viewing the situation with white face but interse interest. The pirates opened a heavy fire upon the boats, when the tall form of the officer was seen to drop back into the stern-sheets. But, instantly, he arose again, and now for the first time his voice was heard: “Men, there lies your game—trap it!” A cheer broke from the crews of the boats, and was answered by a fire from the pirates, with heavy guns and small-arms, An oar here and there was broken, a man killed and the gunwale of one of the boats was shattered, but the oarsmen did not falter. Then the pirates opened a terrific fire, and one of the boats was torn so badly that it sunk, leaving its crew struggling in the water for life, and a few crimsoning the sea with | their blood. ‘** Ho, the third cutter!” > { ee | - side of the pirate captain. “Heaven have mercy! What can I do?” mt a He covered his face with his hands, and ‘eh even the men dared not look upon the scene, : fearing to see the pirate carry out his fearful my threat. Zz “Ton Ramon, your daughter’s ransom at fem once, or she becomes my bride!” came in sas | mocking tones. Spe, they changed at once to a loud cry of alarm, for, suddenly, out of the lagoon dash- ed four boats filled with men. At tho stern of each from a small staff | waved the flag of the United States! The oars fell with a rapid, regular motion that showed they were manned by the sailors of ‘a vessel-of-war. | ‘Tn the stern of the leading boat stood an officer, his sword pointed toward the pirate a4 a8 as though urging the rowers more he oe officer in command of the boat. . ‘Pick up those men and then come on to my support.” ‘‘ Ay, ay, sir!” and the third cutter stopped w 5 3 my be j=} 8 P| BL na m 2 Z S ° i | E boats pressed on toward the goleta, The fire of the pirates now became hot and fierce, and checked. They still held on, and not a shot came ' and then came a volley directly in the faces deck and his loud command was heard upon / command, and as they gaincd a footing upon ene een © a CL A -——-——_———. ‘‘ Ay, ay, sir!” came the answer from the | here for your commander and the other to carry out the order, while the remaining | yet the blue-jackets were not, from them, for they would not risk harming | it a wave of the sword Oe was bis an- | the beautiful girl still standing upon the bul- | gathering di umand- — , and he seemed to urge his rowers more | warks. _ . Piet ing voice ordering and to = EPS Iasi, ei | A moment more and the pirates had fired get under way. — ce te Casey ig ES : SPE 3 as Boers ‘** Repel boarders here!” The pirates crowded about their Jeader just as the leading boat touched the golta, of the boarders. Some dropped back; others were wounded; but the leader of the bluc-jackets gained the the lugger, which was pulling to the scene under her sweeps. ‘*Use your cutlasses, men!” The cheer of the Americans answered the the deck the second boat came alongside and : its crew, boarded, Back the pirates were forced, but only for a minute, and the battle became a desper- ate one, But the third boat, with the crew of the fourth, boarded now, and the pirates were beaten back, cut down and shown no mercy, am until a number sprung overboard into the es sea to escape the deadly blows of the blue- jackets’ cutlasses. ‘‘Hold, blue-jackets! The fight has end- ed!” cricd the leader. The pirate craft was won, Lamonte was a prisoner and taken below badly wounded, just as the lugger came alongside and darkness fell upon the sea. CHAPTER IX. AFTER THE COMBAT. Just as the lugger came alongside the pirate craft, the young-and davizy leader of the blue-jackets sunk to the deck, and his men gathered quickly about him, Don Ramon's first act after springing on board was to rush to his daughter's aid. ‘She was leaning “heavily against the rat- lines, and could not have borne the strain much longer, while, with her arms pinioned behind her she could not aid herself. The cruel rope was taken from about her fair neck, her hands were untied, and the young girl was helped to the deck, where, for a moment, she seemed as though about to swoon away. * But she rallied quickly, and cried: ‘IT saw it all, father, that desperate com- bat, and they saved me; but, Ze has fallen, and is wounded, Let us help him first!” and she moved toward the wounded officer. The men fell back and the father and daughter beheld an officer kneeling by the side of the wounded leader of the blue- jackets. ‘‘Oh, sir, has he been fatally hurt?” asked the melodious voice of Rachel Ravera. The officer started, raised his cap and an- swered: “‘T sincerely hope not, lady; but, he has three wounds, one from a bullet striking him in the left arm, another from a bayonet © thrust in the shoulder and the third is from a sword-point, and I think the pirate chief gave it to him. “‘T can hardly say how dangerous they all : are; but he must be at once taken on board ; his vessel, which lies in the lagoon.” _ ‘“Pardon, senor, but I am Den Ramon Ravera, and my yacht and my home are at the service of your captain and his crew.” ‘I thank you, sir, and it would be well to have Captain Dare where he can have the y best of care, so I will gladly accept your al kind offer. : Pe “T am Surgeon Emory, r, of the it American schooner-of-war Sea Soldier, Cap- z tain Cecil Dare, commanding.” ina Don Ramon extended his hand cordially, Yared presented his daughter to the young surgeon, ae and said at once: oles “Now there is 2 ¥,-Et >reeze coming up, a and I will send a beaj *y have my yacht come wounded of your crew, for I can give shelter to all.” “You are most kind, Don Ramon, and I accept your hospitality, ag our a ae is undergoing repairs, in the lagoon, and no place for wounded men just now—but what at does that mean?” geon Em ~
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. er “of blood. ** What does it mean?” cried Don Ramon, “Tt means, sir, that the pirates who sprung into the sea swam to your vessel and have taken her. ‘* Ho, men, into that cutter and we'll re- take her,” and Lieutenant Harry Orville, who was in command now, sprung into the cutter followed by a dozen men and pulled rapidly away toward the yacht. But the Sea Arrow had gotten the breeze first, and it came with a good puff, so the fleet vessel was already moving seaward un- der full sail. The pirate goleta and lugger were side by side, with sails up, and the coming breeze necessitated their parting company, so the next officer in command, a midshipman, ave the orders to cast loose; and Captain Bare was taken into Lamonte’s cabin, where Don Ramon and Rachel also went along with the surgeon. A search of the vessel revealed the fact that Lamonte had escaped, and if wounded at allit was not of a serious nature, for he had slipped through the stern ports into the sea and swum to the yacht. Some dozen of the pirate crew had also done the same thing, and certain it was that the Sea Arrow had fallen into the hands of the outlaws. The midshipman left in command by Lieutenant Orville soon saw that the cutter could not overhaul the yacht, so he stood in chase with the pirate vessel and opened fire with the pivot-gun, Lacking speed he picked up the cutter, and Lieutenant Orville himself trained the gun upon the yacht, but with no marked effect, and, as a storm was threatening and the deck was strewn with dead and dying, he gave up the chase and decided to stand for the hacienda harbor as Don Ramon urged. . he lugger was signaled and orders given for her torun in to the lagoon with the schooner-of-war boats in tow, and report to the officer left on board the situation and that he was to follow to the hacienda’s harbor the following day. It was just before midnight when the cap- tured goleta ran into the snug harbor under the skillful pilotage of Don Ramon and glided alongside the little dock to which the wounded captain and his men were hastily removed and from thence to the hacienda. And not & moment too soon, for hardl had the goleta dropped both anchors off- shore when a terrific storm burst upon the sea and land, shaking the hacienda to its foundation, and driving huge billows into the little harbor. And all unconscious of the storm and his triumph, Cecil Dare lay in the grandest guest's chamber of the hospitable Mexican home, while the skilled surgeon was doing all in his power to save the life of his gallant com- mander, CHAPTER X. PLEDGED, Tue storm which broke upon sea and shore soon after the arrival of the pirate ves- sel in the hacienda harbor lasted for several days, blowing great guns steadily. The goleta rode it out well, for the harbor was well sheltered, but Lieutenant Orville and his men found themselves in —— quarters and did not fare the best, for the craft was short of stores and in a wretched condition, for she badly needed repairs. There was no sending the boat ashore for the three days, and. the lugger’s return ac- companied by the schooner-of-war from the lagoon was not looked for until the storm blew over. In the hacienda there was sunshine in spite of the storm, for the captain was pronounced not fatally wounded, and ‘the half-dozen men also the recipients of Don Ramon’s kind a naga d were doing well. ‘he captain had bled so freely that he was v , but not one of the three wounds wea heey more than serious, but from the loss He had rallied quickly and was glad to learn that the goleta was his prize, but dis- tressed to know that the beautiful yacht had been run off with by the pirates. risoners who were on - The ees board the goleta told Lieutenant Lamonte The Red Flag Rover. that their captain must have at least‘a dozen men on the captured yacht with him, for more than that number had sprung into the sea, and they were all good swimmers, while their chief had doubtless had in view cap- turing the Sea Arrow when he had pretended to be fatally wounded, The storm at last broke away and the cruiser came into port, followed by the lugger, and dropped anchor near the goleta. The Sea Soldier was certainly a very trim and rakish vessel, with a crew of ninety men and the look of a very fast sailer. The crew were jubilant over the capture of the Lagoon Rover, but distressed by the wounding of their young’ captain, who was the ideal of his men. But they were glad to know that he was in such hospitable quarters and that Surgeon Emory reported his condition most favor- able for a speedy recovery, As for the gallant young commander his lot had indeed been cast, in a pleasant place, for the hacienda was a home of luxury and refinement, and both the Don and Rachel proved most devoted nurses. When able to talk over the affair, Captain Dave stated that he had been hunting along the shore when he had seen the chase, and hastening up.the lagoon to where his cruiser lay he had manned the boats and gone to the rescue, That Lamonte would dare to carry his threat into execution against Rachel, he did not for a moment believe, so he held on straight for the pirate craft, and as he had surmised the threatened fearful execution of the maiden proved but a bold game to keep off an attack. He had been wounded at the first fire of the pirates, but did not heed it, and the bay- onet wound would have been fatal had not Lieutenant Orville shot the pirate ere he could kill him. It was Lamonte himself who had given him the sword-thrust, and in return he had wounded the pirate captain, though just how seriously he could not say. One thing Captain Dare declared it his in- tention to do, and that was to hunt down Lamonte and retake the yacht for the Don. The latter, however, regarded the cap- ture of his yacht lightly, so glad was he at the rescue of his daughter. For the American captain and his men he could not do too much, and Cecil Dare ,was told to make the hacienda harbor his an¢hor- age as long as he was upon the Mexican Coast. This it soon became evident that he intend- ed to do, for the Sea Soldier was hauled into a lagoon for athorough overhauling, while the lugger was dispatched to Vera Cruz for cer- tain supplies and stores needed. The goleta, under a prize crew, and Lieu- tenant Orville’s command, was sent to New ‘Orleans with the pirate DraGndts, wounded and unhurt, and the Sea Soldier was to pick them up again off the Balize from a pilot boat, in which they would cruise until their vessel came after them. Of course this close intimacy between Ra- chel Ravera and the handsome young Amer- ican captain could end in but one way—the falling in Jove of the wounded officer with his beautiful nurse. What Rachel thought of him, Cecil Dare could not divine, for she was not one to carry her heart upon her sleeve, and a Mexican, she was naturally something of a coquette, — ; But when the time drew near for him to bid farewel! to the hospitable host and his daughter, Cecil Dare told Rachel of his love and asked if she were heart whole and fancy free. _ ‘“‘T am not, senor,” she said demurely and a deep pain shot into the heart of the young officer. “Then you are pledged to another?” he sadly said. ** No, senor.” ‘*You said that your heart was not your own, senorita?” ‘é ** Yes, and I told the truth, for it is yours, senor,” was the low response, The following day Cecil Dare set sail in his schooner to bunt down the captured acht, but he departed a very happy man, or Rachel Ravera had promised some day to become his wife. ‘ae (er ————_—_— eS eee ee ree eeesey CHAPTER XI. THE PIRATE-HUNTER. Tue Sea Soldier sailed from the hacienda harbor with the pleasure and regret com- mingled of her captain. He was glad to go upon the track of the Rover of the Lagoons, and regretted that he had to leave his beautiful lady-love even for a short season. At his urgent request the Don had thrown upan earthwork upon one arm of the pass into the harbor and mounted thereon half a dozen guns which he had sent the lugger to Vera Cruz to get for him. ‘The vaqueros and servants of the ranch were drilled in the use of the guns, anda couple of men were to be kept constantly on duty in the little port, to give warning of a coming vessel, so that the hacienda could not be taken by surprise, for that the pirate Lamonte would again come to carry off the heiress, Cecil Dare did not doubt. - During his stay in the harbor Captain Dare had had the schooner fully repaired, and she sailed in shipshape condition. She had been put in commission to go upon a special service along the Guif shores and in the West Indian waters, and thus far the young commander had rendered able and distinguished services. He had gone to the Balize after leaving the hacienda, and picked up Lieutenant Orville and his men, which again gave him a full crew, and then he had set sail in search of the Rover of the Lagoons. ; Reports were heard from various vessels of the captured yacht being at the lawless acts of the goleta, for Lamonte had readily found a crew, and with a swifter and better vessel was becoming bolder in his deeds of piracy. The Lagoon Pirates, as a rule, were con- tent to remain in-shore and pounce out upon any vessel which stood in within a few leagues of the land. Once they had captured a craft and re- » treated to their lair in the bayous and lagoons, and it was almost impossible to find them, and many an unfortunate craft had disap- peared, and crew never been heard of, who, if the truth were known, had fallen into the clutcbes of these ‘‘Shore Buccaneers” and ‘*Lagoon Rovers,” as they were called. With the fleet-sailing yacht under him, La- monte had extended his cruises far out into the Gulf, and his red deeds were making him dreaded fror Yucatan to the Balize. Thrice had the Sea Soldier come in sight of the daring Lagoon Rover, to lose him again. The first time it was but a few leagues off the coast, and the Rover had fled to his lair and all search for him was of no avail. The second time he had been sighted in a storm, with night coming on, and the goleta had been lost in the darkness and tempest in spite of the close watch kept upon the cruiser, while the third time the light breeze blowing enabled the pirate to fairly out-foot the Sea Soldier. ey But the American captain did not give up hope, and one afternoon put into Vera Cruz, hoping to Jearn something from rumors float- ing around of the Rover of the Lagoon. e went ashore alone, enjoyed his wine and dinner at the hotel cafe and then sought — the Monte Casino to pass away a few hours of the evening in watching the gambling al- ways to be seen there. t was Cecil Dare, therefore, who had at- tracted the attention of Captain Almo Ur- baha, the Mexican officer, an‘ his companion, Senor Luis’*Escalon, a banker of the town, and who had followed him to the Monte Ca- sino, as has been seen, for the purpose of, drawing him into a quarrel which would end — fatally for him, and thus give the Mexican officer a chance to win the heiress and beauty, Senorita Ravera, ahi The Monte Casino was a gorgeous salon, — where the wealthy and fashionable Mexicans went to tempt the Goddess of Luck in games of chance and cards. pee - When the American officer entered it was not to play, for he seldom did sé, except as a means of temporary amusement and never for gain only. Ae Sas eS PS é left his hat and side-arms with the door- keeper, for such was the rule of the place, and strayed leisurely among the brilliantly ged ures ny tad: fg is Bre 8 perfect stranger, he had no one tospeak __ to, but his siriking appearance soon ri ot tH f \
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* . i Red Flag Rover. ’ every eye, but of this he seemed wholly | seemed to have been reduced to an interna- | unconscious, and soon became interested in | tional one of America against Mexico, and | regarding a game at one of the tables where | the players in the service of their respective the stakes were large and fortune going all | countries. one way. As he stood thus, a gentleman approached, and saluting politely, said: ‘‘Pardon, senor, but you area stranger I see, and it would give me pleasure to have you join our party in a game of cards, if you will.” The American turned, and after a moment of hesitation, conseated, saying: ‘‘My name is Cecil Dare, senor, and I command the American cruising schooner Sea Soldier, now in four harbor. ‘‘May I ask whom I have the honor of meeting?” ‘‘Luis Escalon is my name, Senor Cap- tain, and 1 am a banker of Vera Cruz. ‘‘But I have heard of you, senor, as the famous Pirave-Hunter of the Gulf, and my country owes you thanks for services of value as well as your own; but come, let us join my friends and we will become better acquainted over a game of cards.”’ Cecii Dare accompanied the Mexican to a secluded alcove, where he was presented to several gentlemen, one of whom was Cap- tain Almo Urbana of the Mexican cavalry. The Mexicans greeted him cordially, and after some little conversation two of the party sat down to a game of ecards, for the He was a bold player, too, and fortune | often smiled on him, so he had no fear of the result, and his pride of nationality de- termined him upon making a brave fight for victory. He drew from an inner pocket a wallet well filled with bank-notes of large denomi- nation and placed a bill for five hundred pesos upon the table. It was at once covered by the Mexican of- | ficer with the samg amount and the game was begun with thz cool deliberation of men who knew that it was to be one upon the re- | sult of which much was depending, for | somehow: it came into the mind of Cecil Dare | that the man before him was a dangerous | adversary. | The game ended with Captain Dave re- | marking: “You play well, Senor Captain Urbana, | but | am Fortune’s favorite thus far. ‘‘Shall we double the stake next time?” | | | / Urbana glanced quickly up at Luis Es- calon and replied: “Yes, senor, if you wish it so.” The second game ended as the first, and the American raked over his winnings with the air of one who found more pleasure in winning the victory than in pocketing the others had declined to play when Captain | money, Urbana named the sum he desired to risk. ‘‘T will stake what I have won on the next These two meu were the Mexican officer {| game, Captain Urbana,” said Cecil Dare. and Cecil Dare the Pirate-Hunter. i iS OHAPTER XII, es FORTUNE’S FAVORITE, Ir had not been the intention of Cecil Dare to play cards, as has been said, when he entered the Monte Casino. He knew no one and was content to be a looker-on, hoping meanwhile to pick up from the floating conversation some news of the late doings of the Rover of the Lagoons and other Mexican pirates, for be knew that any recent acts of lawlessness, would doubt- less be talked over where a large number of men were gathered together, many of them ship-owners. When approached by the handsome banker, »whese manners were elegant and appearance ‘refined, he yielded. to tae request to become one of a party of players. But when the sum named by Almo Urbana -.asastake was five hundred pesos, all had at “once said they cared not to venture so much, “You, Escalon, surely do not draw out, ‘for you have all the money in Vera Cruz in ‘your vaults?’ said Captain Urbana banter- Angly. 2 _- Yes, but the morey is only in my keep- ‘ing, and I hardly care to risk of my own so ‘large a sum on the turn of a card,” responded ‘Escalon quietly, although he; had been the one to stake the officer and suggest the nam- ing of a large sum, knowing that the others would draw out, while he added: “Tf the American does, then he has not the nerve of his countrymen whom I have met.” “And you, Senor Captain Dare, will not back out for fear of losing a few pesos?”’ said Urbana, and his words and manner would have made a man of less nerve than Cecil a accept the gauntlet thus thrown down to ~ im, f ‘*Oertainly I will play, senor, and you can make the sum larger if you will,” was the cool reply, and Senor Urbana winced under it, as he knew be had to depend upon his ‘banker friend only for money to play with. But Escalon was in for it, and knowing fi that the Mexican officer was a finished play- er and universally lucky, he said: “‘T hope, Captain Urbana, you will not follow our example and withdraw in alarm at the stakes?” ua encouraged Captain Urbana re- pled: ‘ _ “Oh, no, I will play for any stake, but would prefer to begin with five hundred.” The American bowed and took his seat opposite to the Mexican, and the others rs ered about the two players with deepest. est in the game, n Dare was a rich man, he had also ome sum in prize money to his credit; Yi i y when the game ete te w ee to be backed out for fear of losing ‘thousa ‘If Senor Escalon will cash my draft on | his bank, certainly, for I have no more cash ) with me at present,”»said the Mexican. ‘Certainly, Captain Urbana,” replied the~ banker, tossing a roll of bills upon the | table. The third game was but a repetition of the other two, and the Mexican drew a | long breath and his face paled as he said: ‘Senor Americano, just one more ame | with you, please, that I may discover if you | are still Fortune’s favorite,’ . The tone and manner were far from pleas- | ant, and all saw that the Mexican captain was getting into an ugly humor. But the American was. perfectly cool and | replied: ' ‘‘Name yoar stake; Senor Mexicano,” and | there was a spice of sarcasm inthe way in | which he followed the style of Captain Ur- | bana and called him by his nationality. ‘* Two thousand pesos, senor.” ‘Any sum pleases me, senor,” and Cecil Dare quietly placed the sum named upon | the table, while Captain Urbana again bor- . rowed from the banker. “Worlune stili smiles upon me, Captain | Urbana,” said the American as he won the ; fourth game. | ‘ «Tt is not Fortune, Senor Americano,” re- | plied.the Mexican, and there was no mistak- ing his look and words. **May I ask for an explanation of your it Senor Urbana?” sternly said Cecil are. ** My explanation of your winning, senor, | is that you pl » Shaye game of a card sharp,” | came the words, clearly and sneeringly ut- | tered. wsea - CHAPTER XIII. THE CHALLENGE, CapTatIn ALMO URBANA was 4 man to be ; eaeeraestiteiadl “aid RiesninaT ttn ies nae att nies sancti Sa ‘. ee ee 7 navy, hoping to get a special command which would enable him to capture prizes enough ' to build up his wealth once more. He decided upon this course after it came to his ears from a reliable source that the ‘ woman whom he loved, for herself as well | as ber riches, was engaged to an American. He had received notification of his appoint- ment being made, with orders to retain com- mand of his company of cavalry until order- ed to some vessel as a lieutenant. He was thus in the army, and awaiting orders for service afloat when presented to the reader, He was in the power of his cunning friend Escalon, who, to gain his ends did not hesi- tate at any means used. Escalon was rich, very rich, and gold was his idol, so he was striving for more. Captain Urbana was supposed to be a very rich man by all except the banker, who knew the situation. eveu better than did the cavalryman as to just what he was worth. A daring sailor, a splendid soldier, a dead shot and the best swordsman in Mexico as he was considered, Almo Urbana was feared as | a dangerous man to encounter in a personal affair. As a proof that this was true he had - already engaged in half a dozen duels, several of which hail been fatal. Among women the handsome Mexican was a favorite and a hero, and men admired his dash and dariag. Such was the man who had so coolly ac- cused Captain Cecil Dare the American sailor of being ‘a card cheat. Had Captain Urbana expected what would follow he would have been more careful; but he did expect that he would be instantly challenged by the American, and, as the reader is aware, that is just what he sought to have occur, for he had decided to both disgrace and kill his rival for Rachel Ravera’s hand. But hardiy had he uttered the words when a clutch of iron was upon his throat, and in spite of his boasted strength he was bent backward until be groaned with pain, while stern and determined came the words; “Retract that Spetsceet senor, or by Heaven I will crush every bone in your body. ‘* Retract it I say!” All were astounded, and none’ more so than was Banker Escalon, for the strength of the Mexican captain was proverbial. Now he knew that the American kandled him with an ease that he had not deemed it possible fora giant todo, and that he meant just what he said he was certain. - All stood in breathless silence, and after a uick movement scalon said: about the fable Senor : 4 4 ‘*Captain Urbana, your temper got the best of your reason, and you owe it to Cap- tain Dare to retract your words.” It was a getting out place for Almo Ur- bana, yet why the banker had so quickly switched over he could not tell; but he said hoarsely: ‘*T do beg your pardon, Captain Dare, and retract my foolish charge ‘against you.” ‘* You are wise, senor,” and with this the American re,eased his steel-like grip, half throwing the Mexican from him as he did so. Captain Urbana wripe recovered him- self, and said, now with a face livid-from his deep anger, for he had received a hint from feared, and many of his acquaintances held | the banker: dread of him. He was well born, priding himself upon his ancient lineage and that the blood of the ontezumas flowed in his veins. F He had been left two fortunes, and one had been quickly run through with, while the Jast one was only possessed in name, as Ban- ker Escalon held a claim upon it for money advanced, amounting to one-half its value. The two men, Escalon and Urbana, had been midshipmen together when lads, and inheriting fortunes. , Escalon went into business and used his capital for making his fortune grow and was most successful. . é Urbana got a lieutenancy in the army and after half a dozen years becume a captain of cavalry, P As his fortune dwindled away, rather than admit his poverty he had used the influence of his friends to get | both resigned from the Mexican Navy when | reappointed into the “‘Tasked your pardon, Captain Dare, be- cause I feel that I did wrong you; but no man places his hand upon me whom I do not hold answerable for the act,” ‘ ‘““That means, senor, that you wish me to gave you satisfaction?” ** Tt does, sir.” ; “T but punished you for your insult, senor, and would be glad to let the one can- cel the other, if you please.” ' «You. admit, then, that you fear to meet me?” yes % ‘ The American laughed, but replied: “My dear senor, when I meet a man whom I actually fear, with my own hand will 1. take my ie, for there would benocharm for me in living.” ‘et “Then why not give me the satisfaction I a. es : you make itademand?”” | ae 6.” , Py y “Very well, senor, I am wholly at your *
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affairs, a service, and will be glad to see your repre- sentative on board my vessel to-morrow, to pect my first officer, whom I will present to im.’ “To-morrow wiil not do, sir, for I am un- der orders, so I will name Senor Valverde as my second, and he will speak to you now upon the subject.” The one named Valverde was a gambler- gentleman, and a man whose affairs of honor were most numerous. He was a bold gambler, and just as bold a duelist, and his friends were wont to say that he enjoyed a deadly encounter. He smiled and bowed at the compliment paid him by Captain Urbana, and remarked: “‘T shall be glad to ask Captain Dare his pleasure in this matter?” ‘Tt is to fight, sir, as the alternative is forced upon me,” was the calm reply of the American, CHAPTER XIV. THE FALSE FRIEND. Tum gambler, Valverde, smiled blandly at the reply of the American, and said in his even, low tones: **Then I shall be pleased to have the senor name his second.” , ‘*T have no friend in your town, so must refer you to an officer of my vessel, Lieuten- ant Henry Orville.” ‘* But, my dear senor, that will needs put the affair off later than to-morrow, and my principal has duties calling him away early in the morning,” urged the gambler, ‘‘Permit me to offer my services, Senor Captain Dare, for I it was who brought you into this unfortunate position,” said Senor Escalon, with real feeling in voice and look. ‘Tt is much to ask of a stranger, sir.” ’ “Po not so consider me, senor, and permit me to say that I will serve you with pleas- ure, while | am not a stranger to the code duello,” “I thank you, sir, and will accept your services in the same spirit that you tender them.” The Mexican banker bowed and asked: *« As the challenged party may I ask if you have any preference of weapons?” “‘None, sir; swords or pistols are either satisfactory, and you will find me at tae Plaza Hotel, for I will not return on board my vessel to-night.” ith this Captain Dare bowed to those present and turned away, leaving the salon soon after. | Half an hour after Banker Escalon, found him seated in a pleasant room at the Plaza Hotel writing a letter, while one just ad- dressed lay upon the table near him, ‘* Be seated, Senor Escalon, and have sup- r with me, for I have ordered it, anticipat- g the pleasure of your society.” ‘“¢T thank you, senor, I will join you with pleasure! but let me say that all is ar- ranged.” ‘*That is satisfactory, and let me say that here are these letters which if aught befalls me, I will esteem it a favor to have you take them aboard mg Brg and deliver them to my first officer, Lieutenant Orville.” “It will give me pleasure, senor, to carry out any wish of yours,” and the, Mexican wondered that no question was asked him about the arrangements for the duel. As supper was brought, and a good one it was, and Cecil Dare asked nothing about the affair on hand, and conversed in a way that seemed to indicate that it was not in his gaits the Mexican at last said: ‘Permit me to tell you now, senor, about this unfortunate meeting.” ‘* Ah, yes, you said it was all arranged?” “Yes, sir, for the morning at sunrise, on the harbor road.” ie That is satisfactory, senor, and I thank ul. kits _ “ He does not even ask about the weapons,” the banker thought, so said aloud: “T selected swords, senor.” - “Certainly, they give a chance for a man to be merciful if he so desires.” “T fear you will find Captain Urbana | _ merciless, sen 0és not belie his looks.” : hs eae be he has hada number’ of fatal ' The Red Flag Rover. demanded, the weapons will be pistols, at ten paces.” ‘‘There will be no need of the pistols, Senor Escalon; but it is well to have them in reserve. ‘* May I not order you a room here for the night?’ “No, thanks, I have my own quarters, and will call for you at dawn.” “‘T’ll be ready, senor; but I will have to impose upon your kindness for weapons, as I have only my sword ashore, and it is tuo rough to send off to my vessel for rapiers.” ‘*T have them, senor, and will bring them,” and Senor Escalon took his departure. Straight back to the Monte Casino he went, and Captain Urbana seeing him enter, sought a private alcove, “‘ Well?” he said, eagerly. “‘The American accepts all arrangements,” ‘* Then he is a dead man, Escalon.” ** Yes, but he is a cool hand with a blade, I am sure, and you will have to be careful.” **T have no dread of the result, Escalon.” ‘‘Nor I, though he may be cangerous.” ** Not to me, for I shall disarm him and run him through the breast. ‘<The fortune of the fair Senorita Ravera is worth a dozen lives,” ‘*True; but was he not nervous over meet+ ing me?” *«Not in the least did he appear so.” ** He cannot have heard of my skill.” “No, of course not, as he has no friends here.”’ . ‘* Well, he will soon know what I can do, and then the field is clear for me to win the Senorita Ravera.” ‘* Yes, but it is unfortunate about the money he won,” ‘Isn't it?” ‘*T declare I never saw such luck, and he plays as coolly as a professional,” : ‘He played well enough to win, and held the cards to do so,” ‘* Yes, after you had arranged the cheat cards, too,” **T had all ready to spring the proof of his cheating upon those around when he made the threat he did to you.” ‘* He would have killed me then and there had I not retreated.” ‘He certainly would, for I saw it in his face; he was so incensed by your charge that he meant you should retreat or die.” ‘“‘And such strength I never knew mortal man possesse i,” ‘‘He handled you as though you were a child.” ‘Yes, I was powerless in his grasp, and you know the great strength I possess.”. “‘T do, and if-his skill with a blade is equal to his strength and nerve you Will have to be very careful to better him.” “‘f have no fear when a sword is in my hands.” ‘*T know you and have confidence in you; but should he prove your superior?” ‘He cannot.” ‘“‘I say should he do so?” ‘*Ah! I do not wish to be killed.” “No, of course not, and Valverde must be bought over to do as we deem best.” “Of course.” “Then I will arrange all, and of course if he falls, whether by your sword, or not, it will be in a duel, you see. ‘*T will now go and see Valverde, and the banker took his leave. .CHAPTER XV, THE DUEL, Tue spot chosen for theduel was a seclud- ed one, outside the city limits, and in a chaparral near the shore, Thither a vehicle drove in the early dawn, and in it were but two persons, Banker og and the American officer, Cecil are. For reasons best known to himself, Banker Escalon had preferred to do his own driving, so had not brought a servant along. “This is the spot, and don’t let me make vos nervous by saying that Captain Urbana as already killed two men. here.” ‘It does not make me nervous, senor,” was the quiet response, — : The weapons were then taken from the vehicle, the horses tied to a tree and the two men awaited the coming of the Mexican a officer and his second, for they were first upor the field. The scene was a picturesque one, a dense undergrowth landward upon the sand dunes, and the Gulf and silvery shore in the other direction with the town in the distance and harbor dotted with vessels, while not far away the grim walls of the San Juan d’Uloa arose in all their gloom and strength. Just as the sun appeared above the hori- zon, another vehicle appeared in sight and it contained also but two persons. It was drawn by but one horse and was Captain Urbana’s own rig, and he held the reins. ‘‘He makes a mistake to tire himself by driving that hard-mouthed and spirited horse, when he will need his sword arm well rest- ed,” said Cecil Dare to the banker. ‘* Yes, a man should not do aught to ex- haust himself on the eve of a combat,” re- sponded Escalon. The two new-comers now sprung from their vehicle, the mule was securely tied and they advanced to where the banker and American stood, Henrico Valverde, the gambler, carried the weapons, and they saluted as they came up. The American bowed haughtily and qui- etly watched the two seconds as they meas- ured the respective blades and talked apart together, while Captain Urbana stood in the foreground of the little spot, gazing upon the scene before him rather than recalling the sad memories of his former visits to that same spot. Soon the two principals were placed in po- sition, the swords handed to them, and the seconds took their stands on either side. Captain Urbana was perfectly cool, his cuff turned back to allow his wrist full play, and upon his face was a confident smile, without a shadow visible or a doubt in his mind. The American was calm to indifference, for he seemed more like one who expected to enter upon a friendly bout than a man who faced one who he knew meant to take his life if possible. ‘*Gentlemen, are you ready?” asked gam- bler Valverde, who had won the word. Both of the men bowed, and quickly the order followed: ‘* Cross swords!” The blades, superb weapons they were, too, came together with a sharp ring that | roade the sparks fly, and quicker than a flash, the Mexican made his favorite and splendid. unge. In ninety-nine cases out of a hundred it would have ended the fight then and there; but it wasmet by a parry so skillful and quick, yet so easily executed, that the Mexican | whitened a little, for he knew then and there — that he had met his equal with the sword. Again he tried his quick and unexpected tactics, to be again as skillfully foiled, and in © less than a minute he received a cut on the cheek which he knew had been mercifully given, as the American could have pierced is throat, had he so wished, The blood of the Mexican was now at fury heat, and his pride was touched, for his quick glance told him that both the banker and the gambler were amazed that he should have met his match. tae A glance into the face of the Aimerican showed, too, that he was in no manner dis- turbed by the combat, and w'th all his fierce- ness an ‘1 combined, he began to press him to kill him. { . 4 The American met him with a skill equally his own, defended himself perfectly, and can was failing, he began to press him de- blade and rest if fatality. ** Never!” shouted the Mexican, and again — - began the attack more fierce ore. ees? Ra, The play of the American was grand, and — the two lookers-on were lost in amaz and admiration. local Saas aae a cae _They saw that he was simply amusing himself with the man who had proven | m= self on scores of occasions the best swords- the hilt, with the dexteri | Phil ee ae OM iia a : FRE they Se eas § aE ee Ss y than be- ‘a 7 } when he saw that the strength of the Mexi- _ a} i \ liberately, and at Jast said, in hiscalm way: “You are fatigued, senor, so lower your ou will, or consider your- self beaten, and let this affair end without —_ Hh i a in ae, NaN boa aes : Bot At last he sent the sword of e Mexican ian flying upward, and as i Nein Lona peudus Aa 8 rof a sleightof Lh 4
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The Red Flag Rover. _ ea hand performer, reversed it quickly, and | here with all haste. My advice is to let handed it to the defeated man with the re- | themiisill these three Greaser assassins right mark: | here.” ‘Accept your sword and your life from Dare laughed and said: me, Captain Urbana, and permit me to say **Nu, my lad, I cannot take your advice, that I am glad this affair ends thus, asI have | though they richly deserve punishment,” often heard you spoken of most pleasantly | and turning to the three Mexicans, who were by our mutual friends, Don Ramon Ravera | silent and pallid as they stood under cover and his daughter.” of the muskets of the four seamen, he con- The reference to these two caused the | tinued: white face of the Mexican to crimson, and he said savagely: ‘*T refuse to accept either my sword or my life at your hands, Senor American, and demand that.you face me with pistols.” ‘‘As you please, senor, but violent exer- cise is not conducive to aid in deadly aim,” | was the cool response, and Cecil Dare turned | upon his heel to walk toward his second, | when seizing his sword, which his adversary / had thrown upon the ground, he sprung toward his generous foe to run him through the back. oes CHAPTER XVI. A BOY AS AN ALLY. Hap Cecil Dare suspected the treacherous act of the Mexican officer he could not have acted more quickly or boldly than he did, for he sprung to one side, wheeled and had his sword at a guard in a second of time. With the experience of his foe’s skill and nerve which he had had, Captain Urbana did not rush to tke attack as he otherwise | ‘would have done. He was so cautious that he did not let his temper get the better of his reason, though he was furious that his intende! assassina- iion had been so cleverly foiled. ~ Did he rush upon the American he knew ba the result would be quickly against , im. He even dreaded that his dastard act might cause the American to attack him, and in his fear called out: “Come, Vaiverde and Escalon, and end | this affair now.” Valverde bounded to his side, seizing one | of the four swords brought, while, grasping the other, Banker Escalon took up position upon the other side of the officer. To their surprise he did not retreat but stood his ground and Cecil Dare said in his quiet way: “So, this is your game, is it, senor? ‘Well, after all the odds may not be so _ dangerous as they look.’ Both Escalon and Valverde were fine swordsmen, and, as they circled around with Captain Urbana they ‘got in front of the American to seaward. He was thus in the open space in the thieket and could not re- treat if he would, so must stand at bay and be killed, unless he triumphed over the three. ; The Mexicans, also armed with pistols, held them in their left hands, thus having Cecil Dare wholly at their mercy. Still he did not change color, nor did he lose his indifferent manner toward the now deadly peril he had to face. What would have been the result of these fearful odds cannot be told; bat, just as the four men stood there in silence, the one at bay against three, he suddenly said: We are tu have wituesses to this combat, senors, it seems—more of your kind, doubt- less.” The Mexicans started, turned and beheld five persons present, who had suddenly come around the thicket into full view. Four of these were in the dress of Ameri- _ can sailors, and the fifth, who appeared to be the leader, was a mere lad attired in the picturesque costume of a Mexican youth. The sailors were armed, but the lad show- ed no weapon as he came forward and said: “* Captain Dare, I am just in time to pre- - vent your aca murdered,” eon A B ae yen aie wget pote S at the Monte Casino?” cried | : he's: no?” cri are, an _ “T do indeed owe you my life, my brave youth,” r y y my ray __* “Taw you, sir, at the Casino, where I nig been a page for months, though I am nerican. I overheard the plot of Senor on and Senor Valverde to kill you if you got the best of Captain Urbana; so I “Went out to your vessel before dawn, and old the officer that you ordered four men pres t ie me, and 1 brought them j ‘*Senors, you have heard how this brave lad saved me from your intended assassina- tion, and my adviee to you is to get into your vehicles and drive with all haste back to the city, where, if I hear one whisper of the charge you made against me last night, Captain Urbana, I will make public the in- famous perfidy of all three of you toward me here. “You, Senor Urbana, will bear my mark to. your grave. I advise you all to be off at once, or I may be tempted to put my hand upon you, Senors Valverde and Escalon also. ** Go, senors!”’ He stepped aside and the three Mexicans at once started for their vehicles, when Banker Escalon turned and said: ** Senor Dare, I wish, to say to you that the charge of that boy against me is false!” ‘‘If so, then why did you as my second, attack me, when you should have been my friend?” ‘*Yes, his charge is false!” shouted Val- verde, adding: ‘* | punished the boy once for disobedience, and this story is all for his revenge.” Seizing a musket from one of the sailors, | the lad leveled it and said: ‘‘ Now, you hurry up, senor, or I'll pull trigger, and which one of you the bullet finds I don’t care.” The Mexicans muttered bitterest impre- cations, but lost no further time in talk, and hasteaed to denart, the lad raising his som- brero in mock politeness as they drove away, whiie he called out: ‘You better have that gash on your cheek attended to soon, Captain Urbana, or you'll lose all your good Jooks.” His mocking words, spoken in perfect Span- ish, and his laughter echoed unpleasantly in their ears as they drove away. ‘*Now, my fine fellow, tell me just who ou are, and how I find you a page in a exican gambling hall?” and Cecil Dare turned to the lad, who answered in his light- hearted way: ; ; ‘*Oh, Iam only a Boy Waif, sir, drifting abuut the world—that is all.” | CHAPTER XVII. THE BOY WAIF. Tue reply of the lad touched the commander to the heart, and he gaze his face with reneweu interest. in spite of his indifferent, almost saucy air, he could see behind it a tenderness and intelligence beyond his years. His face was simply too handsome fora boy, and masses of short golden curls clus- tered all over his head. His eyes were large, dark blue and shaded oung into _by long lashes, and_more perfect white teeth he had never beheld. There was asviric of mischief about the corners of his mouth, but there was a look of indomitable pluck and character also, com- mingling wel! with his Devil-I-care air. Hes costume was of the Mexican dress, rich and jauntily worn, and his form was slight but well knitted together and graceful. | aptain Dare had observed him at the Casino the night before, and struck by his | appearance and the fact. that he must be an American, intended sneaking with him, but the trouble which followed had caused him to forget todo so, : ‘You are a waif, you say?” he said kind- Mu Yes, sir, a Boy Waif.” ‘* What is your name, my lad?” “*Cat me Clover, sir.” «Mbt is not your real name then?” “No, sir,” was the frank reply. ‘* Where is your home?” ‘* Anywhere, everywhere, sir,” ‘* At present you are living in Vera Cruz?” ** Yes, sir.” ‘*But you are an American,~- OF és, gir.” . 7 “‘ How would you like to be a sailor?” “Tam a sailor, sir, andI love the sea.” eee eV. <m Ateet ae Hig = ~~ if ‘ 1 ea a Co NS See * ** You have some education?” ** A very fair one, sir, for my years.” - ““Then I will offer you a berth with me as secretary until I can do something better for you, ‘Will you take it?” “Yes, sir, with pleasure.” ‘* Now tell me how you came to heip me as you did?” ‘*T overheard Senor Escalon and Captain Urbana talking together, after be came from | visiting you, for 1 saw the trouble about the cards, and then I heard the banker tell Gam- | bler Valverde of the little game the three | were to play against you. ) ‘““That decided me to act to save you, so 7 / went out to your vessel about an hour before | dawn.” “Jn all that blow?” ‘* Yes, sir.” ** What did you goin?” ** A sail punta, sir.” ; | And ke handled it, sir, like an oid tar.* said one o* the seamen, saluting politely “TI to. you, sir, | was an old salt,” said the lad. ** And then?” = Lee the officer in command a lie.” a ie?” ‘““ Yes, sir, for I didn’t wish to tell him of your trouble, se said that you wished to arrest an American prisoner ashore and to send | with me four seamen well armed were your orders.” **T sce.” ‘‘ When we reached the shore I told the men the truth and we started for this plaee, which I had to find from what 1 had heard of it, and J am glad we came in time, sir.” ** Well, my lad you have made me your friend for life. ‘What has driven you from your home, to become a wanderer about the world, is not my affair, but so long as you will remain with me I will befriend you. ‘« Now we will go aboard ship.” ‘Did you not leave your traps at the hotel, sir?” ‘Yes, and some letters, which I now wish to secure, and i thank you for the reminder.” and the captain led the way to the little cove where the boat had been left. “Take the tiller ropes, Clover,” said the commander, and acting as coxswain the lad gave the orders to ‘ give way ” and the boat started upon its way up to the town. ‘« My lads, get you some grog and break- fast, for I will be gone an hour at least,” and Cecil Dare handed the men several gold onzas apiece and walked away accompanied by Clover, leaving the four seamen lost in de- light at their good fortune.” ‘Tsay, Jack, that’s the best man I ever trod a deck with,” said one. ‘*He do be so, mate, for he are liberal, and a gent from keel ter truck,” answered Jack. i reat ‘* Yas, and he knows more about handlin’ a ship than most commodores I has sailed under,” said another. “ And would fight a frigate with a sloop- o’-war,” the youth added. ‘*And thet lad are a-goin’ ter make his mark,” said Jack. — ye on his shoulders, some day.” ‘**You bet be will, and he’s a gentleman to boot.” ; “He do seem so, though he looks like a pretty gal.” ‘“Waal, we was in luck ter be sent with him, for we holds five gg onzas each and the captain’s good will for our being on board ter help him.” “Tf it hadn’t been for the pistols them Mexikins had, the capt’in would hey jist ‘made ther three of ’em strike their colors.” said Jack, ‘ “Yes, he would; but I is glad the lad got | us there in time.” oe Such was the conversation that follow the departure of the captain and the to where they could get a square meal, and | something pelt to wash it down with. In the mean ‘ ; had gone on to the hotel, where the former | had ordered a good. breakfast, which both sat down together to enjoy. . ae | in Port long?” asked the lad, # Tes Seat: ssa oF Bae 6 4 "aig Pages® “ He'll tread the quarter-deck, with straps — after which the four honest tars walked over time the officer and the lad — ‘Senor, may I ask if you expe { to remain “I may remain a couple of days, as I am iy
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10 anxious to make certain discoveries, if pos- sible.” “I know this place, sir, thoroughly, and its people, too, and I advise you to appear only by day, for your life is not worth a peso if you walk the streets by night—nor mine, either, for that matter, after what I did this morping to thwar: those three Mexicans.” “*Your advice is good, my lad, and I shall be careful; but now Lam going to take you into my confidence, and see if you cannot give me certain information I seek, so come with me to my room,” and Cecil Dare led the way to his room. CHAPTER XVIII A TRIO OF CONSPIRATORS. THE first thing which Captain Urbaha did upon reaching the town was to drive to his rooms and serd for his surgeon, while his two companions sought their quarters, all promising to breakfast together at a later hour. ‘‘ Rivas, is this infernal wound going to leave a scar?” asked the Mexican captain when his surgeon appeared, ‘“‘Tt was done over an hour ago and has bled freely, I see,” said Surgeon Rivas. ‘‘Tasked you if it would leave a scar?” hotly said the officer. ‘“As a matter of course, senor, a cut an inch deep and from the cheek-bone to the lower jaw will leave a very ugly scar,” re- sponded the surgeon, with more satisfaction at giving pain for the manner in which he had been spoken to, ‘‘Qan you not prevent its disfiguring my face with all your boasted art of a surgeon?” said Captain Urbana in the same angry tone. ‘‘T will do all in my power, senor, and leave it for other surgeons to say how my work was performed.” ‘* Qaramba! why don’t you set to work about it then?” 2 The surgeon smiled blandly and went to work, and he had the revengeful pleasure of making the irate captain wince under his hand far oftener than there was any need for. But the wound was stitched together and dressed, and Captain Urbana was very coolly informed that the scar would disfigure his handsome face badly. He uttered imprecations both loud and deep and then turned to greet his two com- ‘panions in guilt who just then entered, while the surgeon asked innocently: ‘‘ Was there any rust on the sword point, Captain Urbana? for if so I fear you may have trouble.” “Who said it was a wound made by a sword, sir?” shouted the captain. «My experience with wounds, senor, tells me that it could have been made by nothing else,” was the reply, ‘¢ Well, it was a sword that did it.” “Well, senor, it is doubtless nothing to the wound you gave your adversary, for your sword must have entered his heart.” ‘*No, sir; I spared him,” was the angry retort; and the rg, oh took his leave, smil- ing biandly at the fact that in his own way he had gotten satisfaction for the captain's insulting manner toward him. The breakfast was secured in the officers’ pleasant quarters, but Captain Urbana did 4 more swearing than eating, as his face pained ur him at every movement of his jaws. Then the servant was dismissed, and Cap- tain Urbana said warmly as be turned toward his guests: “Well, what do you think of this?” ‘* A more marvelous hand with a sword I never saw,” Valverde returned. j ‘* Does any one know that better than I 0? ‘“‘T meant what is to be done about it.” “The American will doubtless go on board his vessel and set sail,” said the ban- er. “Not he, for he is not one to leave the place until he knows what is said of this duel.” ‘I guess you are right, Senor Urbana; he -wi.l wish to know it he is to be accused in any way,” Valverde remarked. * Then our best course is to frankly sa that a duel came off and you were wounded, captain.” ; _ * Can we not keep that from being known, Escalon?’ | “Your wound shows for itself, and I see no other way out of it,” y . - | Senor The Red Flag Rover. “Well, let us go the whole string then, state that I accused the American of being a card-sharp, but convinced of my error, offered an apology, and then challenged him for striking me and in the duel I was wounded.” “This will be the better way, if I read your idea aright,” said Escalon. **Tow do you read me?” “Why, if the American remains here a few days, no one would suspect you, after frank'y admitting the whole affair, if he lost his life in some way.” “Yes, about that; but I was also thinking of meeting him again with pistols.” “Do you value your life, Senor Urbana?” ‘* As dearly as any man.” «Then don’t throw it away.” “How do you mean?” «That man is as goodashot as heisa swordsman, and has the quickest eye and movement I ever saw. ‘* He would kill you before you could pull the trigger.” “You seem to forget that I am a dead- shot.” ‘You were equally as noted as a swords- man.” ‘* Well, what would you advise?” *«Senor Valverde here tejls me he has an acquaintance in the Plaza Hotel.” ee Well vai ‘‘He is employed there, and as he owes his life to Valverde, he will be willing to do the work for a consideration.” ‘* Kill the American?” ce Yes,” ““That would be the best way, I guess.” ‘© Yes, he could kill him in his room at night, and rob him, so that it would seem the work of a robber alone, who killed his victim when discovered at his thieving work,” 4 ‘‘The very thing; but how much must this man be paid?’ “‘T think | can arrange it for a couple of thousand pesos,” Senor Valverde said. Pe Urbana glanced at the banker who sald: ‘‘T think you had best close the bargain with Valverde for the man to do the work.” ‘“All right, please pay him for me, Es- calon, and charge it to my account,” said Captain Urbana with the air of a man who had a fortune at his command The money was counted out and Valverde soon after left to meet his man and arrange for the assassination of the American. CHAPTER XIX. A SECRET REVEALED, Senor Henrico VALVERME occupied an outre position in Vera Cruz, ‘ He was well born, and had been educated for the priesthood, but falling from grace had disappeared for several years to return with considerable money, which he claimed to have gotten by striking it rich in the mountain gold mines. He was admitted into scoiety, because a favorite with army and navy officers, and soon drifted into the role of a professional gambler. He lost heavily at times but it did not seem to affect his income, and he had made himself feared as a dangerous man. His purse was open to his friends, and yet no man could boast of being intimate with “him, Brilliant when he wished to be, haughty toward all who felt that he was not a proper man to invite to’ their }omes, and admired | by women generally, ne was yet a mystery to all, Such was the man who had undertaken to find a ‘‘ friend” who would put the Ameri- can out of the way, for a consideration, Going to his own sumptuous quarters, Yalverde sent a perant away with a message and then sat down to. enjoy a cigar. His home was a pleasant one, Oy | a visitor was always struck with the number of ser- vants employed there, and that they were from the country and not natives of the town. While enjoying his cigar the messenger re- turned and reported the result of his errand, es was to the effect that the one sent for ould follow immediately. Soon after there glided into the room a man with a dark, cunning face and snake- _ | Tike eyes that were never still. ‘“You wished me, captain?” he said al- most in a whisper. “Sit down, Juan.” \ The man obeyed, seating himself In an attitude of one about to spring upon a foe. He was a large man, clad _ in the costume of the ldwer classes of Mexico, and looked. like one possessed of giant strength. “‘ Juan, I have work for you to do.” ‘* Yes, Senor Captain.” ry First tell me if there is aught new te re- port.” ‘‘A stranger, an American captain of a yessel-of-war in port, is at the hotel, Senor Captain, and went.away at dawn with Senor Escalon to fight a duel, I take it.” ‘He was at the Casino last night, Juan, and won heavily.” ‘¢ Yes, senor.” ‘‘He has besides a large sum of money with him.” ‘‘Tt is well worth a risk, senor, to see how much.” , ‘Yes, he must have several thousand pesos: besides his winnings last night! but is he likely to stay long ashore?” ‘« He came back to breakfast and Brought with him the boy whois a messenger at the Casino.” “Aha! Well, he will doubtless remain to- night ashore, and may visit the Casino again to-night, in which case you might waylay him upon his way back to the hotel.” ‘It would be safer in the hotel, senor, when he is asleep.” ‘‘ Letme warn you that heis a man of great strength.” Juan the Mexican smiled in a confident. ay. ‘‘Oh, I know you are a giant in strength, Juan, but this man is also one, for I saw him handle Captain Urbana last night as though he were a child,” Juan looked incredulous, and said: ‘Can it be possible, senor, for you remem- ; * ber.the night the Senor Captain was so in- toxitated at the hotel J could barely hold him?” \ “Yes, and sol warn you that this man. will be your match ” Juan drew from beneath his jacket a long and ugly-looking knife. ‘‘1f this caresses the heart, Senor Captain, strength leaves at its first touch.” al ‘‘Yes, and that is what you must do, for the man must Cie.” ‘*] obey your command, Senor Captain.” _ ‘Plan well so as to get into no trouble, ~ and what you get in value bring at once te me and we will divide equally.” ‘You are generous, senor, for my share is, as you know, but one-fifth.” “True, but in this case it will be one-half, if the man dies, as he must. ‘* Now what have you to report?” - “The rich ranchero, Senor Delsarte is in town.” “Ah, and when will he leave?” ~ “T am not certain, senor, but I will re- port.” ‘*He always carries back with him a good sum of money to pay off his people.” ‘*'Yes, senor.” 4 “Then I will post the men so as to be on | the lookout for him, and when you know his hour of departure send me word so as to dispatch a man with him,” — ; “Yes, senor; but have you other orders, — my captain?” "AY ‘None, only don’t let there be any failure about the American?” Sp «There shall be none, Senor Captain,” and Juan again touched his villainous-looking knife as he arose and took his departure, He had been ordered to do the red work, but his chief had made no mention in hand — aid of the couple of thousand pesos which — Banker Escalon had given bim, _ At + That was one of his own “perquisites,” and he was to share as well in the plotted robbery of Cecil Dare, so that gambler Hen- — rico Valverde was faring well from his con-— nection with the duel between Captain Urbana : and the American sailor, nue Pe, “Tam really winning well in my games, — he mused, as Juan left him. ‘‘I haveac uple J -of thousand clear in my poe ar Juan from the Amer- will get at least ten thousand ican, and perhaps more if he plays and wins bate oe nfe eS Be Ry ey rea Then old Delsarte will c of thousand or more, an / rry. yack a couple. = i; i Tet the lowe
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3 nS 2 —————— share of that, if the cunning old fellow does not give me the slip, as he has on several occasions, ‘* It is a dangerous life I lead, but then the rewards are worth the risks,” and he coughed necklessly, as though he enjoyed the peril overhanging him. CHAPTER XX. LAMONTE’S STRATEGY. Wen Lamont, the Rover of the Lagoons, met the attack of the blue-jackets, led by Captain Cecil Dare, he was suddenly con- fronted by the American leader when he had him wholly at his mercy. Cecil Darg was wounded in the arm, when in his boat, 4nd again in the shoulder by a bayonet in the hands of a pirate, while he was wielding his sword vigorously to keep back two men who were pressing him. Just then Lamonte had rushed up and made a lunge at the gallant officer. He felt his sworc-point pierce the flesh, but at that instant beheld the face of the man into whose heart he had meant to drive his sword, and with a startled cry he shrunk back, and the blade never reached. the life center. In the crowd he was swept away along the deck, like a man who had been dealt a blow that stunned him. His face was pallid and his hand trembled so that he could not use his sword, In the confusion no one had observed his seeming recognition of Cecil Dare, and his manner following it. Seeing that all was lost, and having re- ceived a slight bullet-wound in the head, he sunk to the deck, pretending to be in a state of unconsciousness, and was removed soon after to the cabin, believed to be fatally wounded, The Red Flag Rover. 11 { stroyed by fire, for those who have her will | goon, until it no longer felt even that fierce never discover the hiding-place.” _ ; “Tam glad of that, Senor Captain, and it wind blowing without, so sheltered it was. Then a boat was gotten out ahead with six will make us doubly anxious to capture our | men at the oars, the sails were furled and the old. craft.” ‘‘Yes, Rodriguez; and me must do it,” was the determined response of Lamonte. | yacht towed lightly up the stream. At length the boat came to a aarrow and deep lagoon flowing into the main one, but ‘*Which course now, captain?” asked | here the channel was blocked by a couple of Rodriguez soon after. ' ‘To sea until we drop all pursuit from sight and then at once lay our course for the Lagoon Retreat.” “Yes, senor,” and Officer Rodriguez gave the necessary orders, while Lamonte went into the cabin to take a survey of his prize. The goleta was certainly a most beautiful craft, the cabin being fitted up with every luxury and the greatest elegance. In her build and fitting out Don Ramon | | / trees blown across it. At least it so appeared, until the men landed on the left bank and a block and tackle was made fast to a rope wound like a grape-vine around a tree. ; Then the other end was made fast to the tree fallen directly across the channel, and the force of the men raised one end slowly but surely until it was high enough to per- mit the passage of the goleta. Once bv it was lowered again, and the up- Ravera had spared no expense, and the | per tree was raised in the same manner, and result was that he had a stanch craft, one of ; on glided the géleta up the lagoon still towed phenomenal speed and a palatial sea home to | by the bout out ahead. dwell in. Lamonte smiled delightedly to himself as he went about him, looking upon all sides, and coming to Don Ramon’s cabin he found there some new chases in the way of a wardrobe, which he quickly proceeded to attire himself in, and discard his wet cloth- ing. asia suit was laid out for Rodriguez and others, intended for the Don’s crew of the yacht, then sent forward for the pi- rates, In the way of stores there was an abun- dance, and of the best, for Don Ramon had intended taking an extended cruise north- ward with his daughter. ‘With half a dozen more guns and a crew of eighty men I can cruise the seas where I will in this craft, yes, and it will enable me to yet get possession of that haughty beauty, Rachel Ravera, for I will not give her up—I He heard his men leaping into the sea, and | swear it,” and the face of the outlaw showed -at once he decided upon his course, and a second after had slipped out of the stern- ports into the sea. **Come with me, men, and we'll seize the yacht, for a breeze is springing up,” he said to several of his crew who were swimming hear him. They obeyed, and others were met with and told to follow, until they lengthened inte a string of more than a dozen swimming men. Here and there one went down, but the yacht was not far distant, and the most of them were bold, strong swimmers. The few men left on the yacht were so wrapt up in gazing upon the scene on the goleta, that they did not observe the dark ob- jects coming toward them upon the waters, and not until their forms began to appear over the bulwarks, and spring upon the decks, did they learn the truth. - A rush at the pirates, cries of alarm, a few shots, prayers and curses, and Lamonte bent possession of Don Ramon’s beautiful yacht. Unmindful of their dripping condition the pirates rushed to their posts, obeyed the -. rapid orders of their indomitable leader, and the yacht glided away in the darkness as has been seen, and made good her escape. “T have made a good exchange, Senor Rodriguez,” said the pirate as his first officer - ¢ame aft and joined him after the yacht’s t escape was assured. ‘Yes, senor, and it is just like your bold spirit, to snatch victory from defeat.” ‘Thank you, Rodriguez, for the,compli- ment; but this yacht isa trifle larger than our craft, can outsail her, is stanch as a atte and needs only a larger armament d full crew.” nat % As _ {Which we can soon get, senor.” “Qh, yes, for we have a couple of score at the lagoon retreat to begin with and can - rescue the others from vessels we capture.” sy BE But we lose ‘the treasure we had on the . yhat’y oy ; for we must retake our vessel and nee 46,779 ve ; “But will “it not have been _ taken ee rotors: we can do.so, Captain La- ashore bes af ret that I have a secret. closet on e eta where the wear is hidden away Which no one can find.” pee the fact, senor.” lose the treasure by the 1 can on derin of ae goleta, or her being de- Sune neg ee eS eee Nee ee a ee ees ae eee that he meant to keep his oath. CHAPTER XXI, THE LAIR OF THE LAGOON PIRATES, Tue captured yacht, as has been seen, dropped her pursuer from her wake ve soon, but her captain still held on until all danger of recapture was out of the ques- tion. “IT don’t like the looks of the clouds, Rodriguez,” he said, when he again came on deck, after having discovered how va!ua- ble was the pride he had taken. ' “Nor I, senor, for it looks as though it would be an ugly night,” responded Rodri- guez, who was an old sailor though a young man, he having passed his life upon the Gulf of Mexico and generally under a law- less flag. . “We have a new vessel, a crew pretty: well broken down and very few of them, and I would rather not be caught in a tem- pest.” said Lamonte, with some anxiety. 4 Bis We must do our best,” was the pirate lieutenant’s response, and he at once be- gan to prepare the Sea Atrow to meet the storm. Tt was not long a vengeance. in coming and it came with A vessel less. stanch than was the Sea. Arrow, under the circumstances, would have been knocked down by the shock; but she met it bravely and Officer Rodriguez had the helm himself. . The cabin was closed, all hatches bat- tened down, and everything made fast, while | she met the gale under just sail enough to steady her. . ; Piet) ta. 2 The sea became so wild that at last Cap- tain Lamonte put the vessel before the tem- ep and thus she drove along through the night. ‘A dawn. she lay to, and thus the day pass- ed, the beautiful vessel riding like a duck. When night came on the wind switched around, and the yacht was put on her course to the retreat and went driving along before the storm like a frightened racer. The next day the worn-out crew gave a | cheer as land was sighted, and two hours after the Sea Arrow ran into a lagoon, the |- presence, of which no one cruising near would suspect, as it entered the Gulf in an oblique way, the outer arm of land extending in a crescent and blending with the rest of the land so as td be unseen even at a cables’ len couple of =i ud BW OY. : reieis | The wind drove the vessel far into the la- ' As it advanced it came to where the chan- nel was hardly wider than the vessel itself, and yet the boat ahead dragged her through every obstacle, to suddenly shoot out into a small inland lake. Low upon the lagoon side, the shore grad- ually rose in height until on the opposite side it reached a considerable elevation, and there was visible a fort, showing several guns, commanding the approach. A challenge now came from across the little lake, but Captain Lamonte answered, and the goleta shot out. into the lake, and crossing to the other side, entered the mouth of a narrow but deep lagoon. In fact, upon several sides were Jagoons, which could be followed by circuitous routes, and eventually lead one back to the Gulf, so if attacked the pirates had a chance to escape from their foes. Upon the bluff across the lake was the fort, of half a dozen old cannons, the largest being a thirty-two-pounder and the smallest a twelve. Protected by the bluff and earthworks, the battery could play down upon a vessel com- ing up the lagoon, with plunging shots, and it would take a bold commander to advance under such a fire, with no protection to his craft or crew. Back of the fort, upon the ridge, were a number of well-built cabins, and bere was the lair of the Rovers of the Lagoons. There were fully a hundred people assem- bled to see the goleta, but half of them were women and children, and a motley crowd they were. Here dwelt the families of some of the out- laws, and they would defend their lawless homes and their people as tigers would their young. Ss A wail went up from women and children in the crowd, when Lamonte told them of the loss of his vessel and three-fourths of his men; but unheeding their sorrow, the chief went along the ridge to his own cabin, a stoutly-built structure, before the door of which sat a negro and negress. “* Well, Congoo, I am back again, you see, in spite of your black prophecies,” said the chief, addressin wild-looking old. hag, dressed in scarlet vel- vet, wearing many jewels, and with a crown upon her head skillfully made of human bones. “Yes, chief he back, but he bring woe and wail for dead men, and’‘he did comenear | put he neck in noose, as Congoo say, and some day he think old black Hocdoo woman know when he had shadow of yard-arm fall on him.” . “Quit your croaking, old woman, and prepare supper for me, for I am worn out and need rest,” said the chief, sternly, as he entered the cabin, while the negress, still | muttering sttange prophecies, slowly obeyed his command, wa” Such was the home of Lamonte, the Rover ‘of the Lagoons, CHAPTER XXII. THE RED FLAG OF THE ROVER. Wuartever the fate that had cost the for- tunes, or misfortunes rather, of Lamonte among the Rovers of the Lagoons, he cer-_ tainly had proven himself an able com-— A ey Ps mander. P "They had been 4 lawless lot, whom he had dis ined into order, and they not a reatly admired their’young ebief, but had t ae, ete ype \ the negress, Who was a ~ - -_ *
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12 The Red Flag Rover. ! every confidence in his skill as a sailor and | pis, who was taken from you by American | of the American captain, who was here last his daring. sailors at the sword’s point, and your vessel | If he was cruel, he chimed in with their | captured as well, while youswam with a few | own humor, and because he had lost the goleta, they did not condemn him, but re- joiced that he had captured a better vessel, while they looked upon the dead of their number, and the prisoners, whom they did not doubt would be hanged, as having taken the chances to win, and lost. The young chief ate his meal in silence, which the negress had prepared, and then taking a bugle from a peg on the cabin wail, blew five sharp, short blasts, ending with a long-drawn-out note. Instantly the men of the retreat began to assemble before the cabin, and when all were gathered there, some threescore in number, Lamonute briefly told them of the loss of the goleta and capture of the beautiful yacht, adding: * The craft I have is a far better one, and only needs an armament and full crew. “‘T have with me Officer Rodriguez and twelve men, and from those here [ can add enough to make my force number fifty, “Then I shall give up coast-cruising and boldly sail the Gulf and seas for bigger game than can be caught elsewhere. ‘Officer Rodriguez, you will pick out the men we need, and have the Sea Arrow ready to sail by noon to-morrow.” The pirates gave three cheers and departed, delighted at the chance of finding bigger game than coasters, and Officer Rodriguez picked out the ablest men of the lot and re- ported at noon the next day that the Red Arrow was ready to sail. The chief gave to Bucksha, the old negro his traps to take on board, and turning td the negress, said sneeringly : ry Vell, you old black witch, what have you to prophesy evil in store for me this time?” *‘Clouds obscure the sun to-day, master, and the stars did not shine last night, while I hear de sea moan pitiful on the beach away off, and de wind fairly cry in de pine trees all night long.” “Then you wish me to believe that all this bespeaks evil to come?” ‘* Nature’s signs don’t fail, master.” ‘* Well, in defiance of your black fore- bodings, Congoo, I shall set sail, and my return with riches will show you to bea false , prophetess,” and with a laugh the reckless young outlaw wended his way down toward the cabins of his people. At one, apart from the others, he halted, and there sat a young girl and an old woman. The latter’s face was sad, her hair snow- white and she looked like one reared in re- finement. The maiden was ey built, graceful in every movement and her dark face was very beautiful. She held in her hands a roll of red silk, and handing it to the chief said in a low, soft voice: ‘It is finished, chief.” “T thank you, Felice, for your work, and your mother and yourself have worked hard upon it, I know.” ‘“We worked the night through, chief, and completed our task not ten minutes ago; but why do you change your flag?” said the woman. “It isa humor I have to drop the black flag for a red one.” ‘Then you do but chan deep-water buccaneer.” ‘It is safer along the shores, with the lagoons near to retreat to.” — ** Doubtless, shall drink to your health and happiness. ‘Happiness, chief, is not for me, I fear, was the sad reply, and then almost sharply | told any stories of the duel this morning, t ppg: a: words: __ ‘* Who was this maiden whe lost you your | y _ vessel, Captain Lamonte?” eed , sir, neery of the young pirate flushed, but | the lad, and soon after he took his leave, and wre il hi e said angrily: “An Seg. dus! has our having beau ving kidnapped a his room at the hotel, found that Clover ha I lost what was due me at the Carino. when I left the Casino to see that those men not give up piracy with the giving oe of the sable colors? Oh, no, . my colors, not my career, and in fact shall come out boldly as a | not earn my money, and 5 but I shall be prepared to de- fend myself upon the seas; but I must be | men p off, ty = Felice, when I hoist your flag I ” ‘a a been ‘a spy upon my | Mon Bh cage) MGR Se PC aE ~ “Oh no, I only heard the men talking last nis oh var bevi lappe ital . ager sai night of of your men to the new craft yonder and | thus saved your life.” ‘* Ves, that is so, Felice; but don’t be jeal- | ous, for that maiden was kidnapped to hold | for an enormous ransom, which I knew her | father would gladly pay for her restoration. Had I not failed in my plot, I would have been enriched, and then you, your mother | and I could have gone far from here to dwell | and given up this life.” “You pledged your word to my father, chief, who gave you the command of his people, that you would take his wife and child away from here within the year,” said the maiden, © | **T am aware of that, but I have not been as successful as I hoped to be; but now TI have the prospect of soon gaining riches, and then I will keep my pledge; but now fare- well, and watch for the raising of your flag.” With this he turned away, rapidly de- scended the hill, and as the Sea Arrow moved out across the lake, up to her peak went her new colors, a blood-red silk flag, in the center of which was an arrow of gold, CHAPTER XXIII, AT THE MONTE CASINO, Caprarxs Crcrm Dare decided that he would not leave Vera Cruz for a day or two at least, as by doing so he might cause sus- picion in a few minds, who had witnessed the scene at the card-table the night before, that he was indeed a card sharp. So he went on board his vessel after break- fast, leaving Clover at the hotel to be on the watch for anything that might arise which would be of value to him, f To his lieutenant, Henry Orville, he told all that had occurred, and that he would remain ashore at least one night longer. Then he returned to the shore, and pete. been around to the Casino, and also seen a few of its patrons. The news of the duel had gotten out, and as the American officer was seen unhurt upon the streets, it was said that Captain Urbana had been mortally wounded. In those days in Mexico a duel was a legal- ized affair, so there was no trouble for Cecil Dare to expect from the officers of the law. Clover had also discovered that the treach- erous trio of Mexicans had breakfasted to- gether, and that an employee in the hotel, named Juan, had gone to the quarters of Gambler Valverde, and visited him. This looked suspicious, and the officer asked : “Did you leave the Monte Casino last night, Clover, with no intention of return- ig? **No, sir, I did not say that I would not return to-night, though I did hope to get the chance to ship on the schooner with you, if “* Well, how would it do for you to return to-night, and go on duty as usual?” “T can do it, sir; but I go on at five o'clock. “lt was my hour for leaving last night did not kill you,” ‘*Then you will go to-night?” “ Yes, sir, and it is pay night, so I'll get my money upon my arrival, and I am not overburdened with cash.” “As for that matter, my purse is at your disposal.” © “Oh, thank you, sir, but if 1 borrow I do besides, I am not broke, and will get sixty pesos to-night.” ‘Well, you return to duty there, and then be ready to leave at a sign from me, “See what you can discover as to those lotting mischief, and I will drop in about eight o’clock and may play a game or two, | “Tf you can find out that those men have just let me know, and when I leave the place, ou follow.” By “Tl do it, sir,” was the cheery answer of at the Pio time reported for duty at the te Casino. char His pay was handed to him, and the man- ==} °°! ee... .. 1... 2 ann nnn nooo -: '""T heard that you had entered the service ~ hy y : rs t/t J gf bteet Ot ted “much wonder at the result. night, Clover?” “‘T have heard a dozen stories to-day, senor, that there was no truth in,” was the answer. ‘“Well, 1am glad it is not so, for I cared not to lose you; but do you know how that duel terminated?” ‘IT heard that Captain Urbana was wounded, sir.” ** Well, the American must be a splendid — hand with the sword to better Senor Ur- bana. ‘*Do you know if he will be here to- night?’ ‘*Captain Urbana?” ‘*No, the American?” ; **T guess so, senor, for he is still at the hotel, for I breakfasted with him this morn- ing, we being countrymen, you know,” “Yes, that is why it was said you had gone into his service; but he plays a bold and winning game, and I hate to see our people lose.’ ‘‘He risks his money against theirs, senor, so all is fair.” “Oh, yes, it is fair enough, and I was sorry that Captain Urbana made the charge he did last night. : ‘“‘T only hope there will be no trouble to- night,” and the manager turned to pay off his other assistants, who began to drop in for opening time. The Casino soon after began to fill up, for a larger crowd than usual began to flock there, urged by the many rumors floating about the streets during the day. vbbyans Senor Valverde, with his calm manner and sinister smile, dropped in early, and many gathered about him to know the result of the duel, which all felt had certainly taken place. ‘*] have nothing to say upon the subject, senors,” was his response, “more than to state that the duel took place and Captain Urbana was wounded,” Men wondered at this, that Urbana had at last met his match, and unable to glean more from Valverde they turned to Banker Luis Escalon, who just then entered the Casino. But the banker was as dumb as the gam- bler, and would say no more than state the fact that the duel had come off, with a result unlooked for. . Then the banker — Senor Valverde and the two sat down for a game together in a secluded alcove. It was Clover who brought them the cards and chips, and they glanced sternly into his face, but he met their stare unabashed. ‘Well, boy, you played a bold game against us this morning,” said the banker, sternly. “And I won,” was the reply of the youth. as he turned away, just as the hum of voices ceased suddenly throughout the salon. Looking to see the cause, Valverde said, with an oath: . ‘The American captain has come.” | CHAPTER XXIV. A BOLD PLAYER. Tue coming of Cecil had hushed every voice, for his name had been upon nearly every lip. The Mexicans were trying to solve the riddle of how Captain Almo Urbana, the _ invincible swordsman and dead-shot, had — met his superior in other than a native of , the land of the Montezumas. As both Banker Escalon and Gambler Valverde were silent upon the subject, and | seemed to resent questioning, they could only discover the matter from the stand-— point of a duel having takeu place and = Captain Urbana having been worsted. ‘hose who bad seen the affair of the — night before, when Captain Urbana had been: so readily mastered by the American — and forced to retract his charge, did not 80 rar | es ay he ‘Now into the crowded rooms came the n. Fd He was in full uniform, walked with his — ‘ough he must — quick, yet dignified air, and have heard his name upon a score ¢ —— mh one ie pai t he me bac ) the | ; a ad com gegen! 4 night was ot Ost proof that he h i Fe oee fear of Captain Urbana or his friends, ' he wished to more thoroughly stan charge against him as false. pat are into the Casino ab \ si 3‘, ¥
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* “ Bakes Lie : me are t = ey Y all heard: — uy wi Ce ge ee . a . ns a Y ~ *. eS ag? Oa’, The Red Flag Rover. 13 The timid ones in the crowd glanced uneasily over to the alcove where sat Valverde, the second of the wounded Mexican officer, The banker, Escalon, they knew had been the second of the American, and yet he iid not hasten to greet him. What did it all mean? This question but four persons in the salon could answer and they gave no explanation for the gratification of the curious. After a walk around .the salon, and seem- _ingly unconscious of the fact that he was the cynosure of all eyes, he turned and walked directly toward the alcove where Senor Valverde and Escaiocn sat, their cur- tains not being drawn. Both men afterward confessed to a feeling of nervousness at his act, and yet they simply arose as he approached, though fearful that he meant to denounce them. Bowing coldly the American said: “Senor Valverde, I hear that you are a remarkably successful player and I would ask if you would join me in a game at your leisure?” With a sigh of relief Valverde answered: “With pleasure, Captain Dare, and now if it so please you, for our game has just ended.” “I would like to play five games, for what stakes you please, and then will ask Senor Escalon if he will join me in the same number?” “* Yes, senor, for whatever sum you may desire,” responded the banker, but both he and the gambler were wondering what the real motive of the American was in wishing to play with them. Giving the American his seat, Luis Esca- lon arose and sat near to overlook the game, while with the remark that they hoped they were not obtrusive, a number gathered around the entrance of the alcove. *‘T will send for fresh cards,” said the American, as Valverde took up. the pack /they had been playing with, and there was that in his tone which showed mistrust of the gambler, whose face flushed as he said: “* As you please, senor, but that boy shall not bring tnem,” and he pointed toward Clover. “Ah! youjfear him, do you? ** Well, let another bring them;” At this Valverde flushed still more, for he understood the innuendo of fearing Clover, as well as did Cecil Dare why the gambler y a not trust Clover to bring a fresh pack, As for the lookers-on, they were more than ever mystified. _Another messenger brought the cards, and Valverde said: “For what sum, senor?” ‘‘ A thousand pesosif it please you, senor.” The gambler bowed, the cards were dealt, and the game ended with the American the winner. The next game was like the first, and so it went on until the five had been played and with the same result. é ‘Then Cecil Dare remarked, in a significant one: | ‘“‘T knew that I would beat you, Senor Valverde, all things being even.” Senor Valverde turned pale, yet dared not resent the implied charge that he had been _ forced to play a fair game. . ‘Now, senor, you said 7 would oblige. me,” and Cecil Dare turned to Luis Escalon, who came and took Valverde’s seat, “Upon like conditions, if you please,” said the American. . Escalon bowed and the cards were dealt, -when Cecil Dare asked quietly, but in a voice ‘May L ask how your friend Captain Ur- ‘pana, is this evening?” : _.. The banker bit his lips, for he saw all eyes upon him, yet replied indifferently; s ** Senor easily rs frie restin ty ia he y Eee ended with the American the winner, and the others were but a repeti- d \ tion of bis remarkable tuck, As he pocketed his winnings, he said: - fin as vas Senor Beaton, and it strikes me as a coinci- ers as Captain Urbana, Senor Valverde and orehll eat I warn you that whatever game 4 WA? oe a against tbree such bold and successful play- t : { . / spt 2 ew ee Valverde informs me that his] also certain of winning from you, re prraag luck should hold unbroken rou may play against me in the future, Jecill he the winner.” Both Valverde and Escalon winced under his words\and steady gaze, but with a smile he bowed and turned away with a pleasant: ‘** Buenas noches, senors.” A few moments after he had left the Casino, and the crowd were more than ever mystified. ‘Now we will be avenged, Escalon,” said. Senor Valverde, as he saw the American de- part from the Casino. ‘Then all is arranged for to-night as you planned?” whispered the banker. ‘* All is. arranged for now, and to-night if the first scheme fails,” “Pray explain.” ‘Well, 1am not a man to trust to one to await his departure from the Casino and to strike him in the back when he reaches the dark street that turns toward the Plaza Hotel. “He is there now, and should he fail to meet his doom, at that point, why there is come, let us mingle with the crowd so as to be seen here, just at this time.” ** You are right, for no one in Mexico is above suspicion,” the banker responded, and the two arose and sauntered about the salon. ‘* Escalon,” at last Valverde said sudden- y. “ce Yes.” **That boy is not here in the salen now.” ‘‘No, I do not see him.” “*Let us see if we can find him, and if not, he has followed the American, and may ruin our plot.” \ They walked over to the manager’s stand and asked for a messenger to send on an errand, ‘Where is the lad Olover, senor, for I know him?” Valverde asked. ‘* He is somewhere about the salon, Senor Valverde—go and find him, Pablo.” The boy addressed departed upon his mission, while the two friends waited some- what anxiously. “I cannot find him in the place, senor,” the young grote, Yi reported. R The two men looked at each other and walked away, Valverde saying that he would await Clover’s return to send him on his message. ‘The boy has followed the officer.” ‘* That is evident, Senor Valverde.” ‘Well, we can only wait, for neither of us, With all this mystery hanging about the duel this morning, would date be away from here, where we can be seen should harm befall the stranger,” ‘* You are right; but are you sure of your man?” “Yes, one of the two will get him,” was the reply, and the two took particular pains to make themselves visible in the Casino, so that in case of harm befalling Captain Cecil Dare on his way to thé hotel, they could not in ary way be connected with it. As to the lad having gone out after the sailor, Valvérde was right, for with a wave of his hand at the Casino in general, Clover left the place muttering to himself: “‘Good-by, gamblers, for I am off for »” » With this he descended to the street. All was darkness, except here and there the glimmer of a street-lamp, or a light in a window. ; ; Hastening on,the lad saw a door open at the end of the street, and in the light he beheld two forms. F One was the American officer he knew, and the other was a cloaked after him with stealthy tread. This much the lad saw and the door was closed, having revealed the danger the officer was in. Lightfooted as a fawn Clover ran forward and soon came near the man following the officer. ; gs by iis A dim street lamp swung near and the shadower quickened his steps, and Clover saw enough to show him that he wore a serape, an occasins, for he walked as steal as an Indian creeping upon his ‘prey. De apy ha "Tust it as. Cecil Dare passed by the « a ay? CHAPTER XXyYV. A SHOT IN THE DARK. shaft to kili a man, and sol arranged for one another chance to-night at the hotel; but form Gi apres street lamp, swinging across the street the shadower glided up close behind him, his naae was raised and in it shone a glittering steel. Then came a flash and report and the in- tended assassin sprung into the air and fell dead upon the pavement. ‘Come, senor, we must hasten away. from here,” and Clover seized the arm of the sur- prised officer,; who hastily ran along with him until they turned the nearest corner, for the pistol shot had alarmed the patrol. ‘* You saved me from an assassin’s knife, Clover, if I mistake-not,” said Cecil Dare in his quiet way. ‘I saw by a door opening ahead that you were shadowed, Captain Dure, so hastened on, and fired just in time,” was the modest reply. ‘* Yes, just in time, for ten seconds more would have sent his ugly knife into my back. ** Some robber, doubtless.” “No, he was set upon your track. by Val- verde, I am sure, and if he had decided to have you put out of the way, just take care to sleep light to-night and take your pistol to bed with you.” ‘Thanks for the advice, and I will follow it; but to-morrow we Jeave port, for an in- coming vessel reported that the Rover of the Lagoons was cruising off the Balize, and that is the man I am anxious to come up with.” ; **Red Rover of the Gulf, as he is called now.” “e Yes.” “Well, sir, perhaps I can help you to find him,” said Clover, thoughtfully. “ You?” ‘*Yes, sir; but here we are,” and they en- tered the hotel, where a room was also se- cured for Clover, and word left that they were both to be called at dawn, *‘] will tell you after we sail, sir, what I know of Captain Lamonte,” said the lad, and they parted for the night. Upon reaching his room Captain Dare at once retired, but he took the advice of the youth who had so strangely crossed his path, and piaced his pistol under his pillow. CHAPTER XXYVI. A STARTLING REVELATION, ONE accustomed to sleep in daily and nightly danger of death, becomes trained to slumber lightly, and to awaken in a second of time, with the senses ready for thought and action, : So it was with Cecil Dare, and with the thought upon his mind that an assassin might attempt his life, he went to sleep with a feeling of unrest. Waking after his first nap, he heard a slight sound near his window, which was wide open, though his door was closed and bolted. hes The window was thirty feet from the ground, and yet one might corre up to it by means of a ladder, He saw the stars without, and suddenly they were obscured and the dark outline of a human form appeared in the window. No sound was made by the midnight visitor, who stepped into the room and gazed about him. Captain Dare had made but one move and that was noiseless almost, save a slight click- ing sound. , For full a minute the visitor stood gazing about him in the indistinct light and then he seemed to have taken in the situation for he moved noiselessly toward the bed. He was a nef man, and his right hand was uplifted and held in its grasp a knife. This much the officer surmised, for he could only see the form and uplifted hand. Nearer and nearer crept the assassin until he stood within three feet of the bed qnd was ready for his red work. é But a cry burst from his saw a white arm raised and his Ii 8 as his eyes e attempted to spring upon his intended victim. © But a flash, a blinding glare in his eyes and with the report of a pistol ringing in the ruom he sunk tothe floor. = © The hotel was alarmed, and men hastened pli officer's room, among them being ver. : . _ They found the officer with a candle in hi hand, which he had just Ii ited, ndin over the form of a man upon the floor, — ‘ =| kare tae Pitaeatte bs t ~ » & Re : b : ty rai Za 2 ” 5 - ss 6 4 Fe ta. 0 Po ie R Po te, Age Oat « . eo e ; 7 : ore 4 , e o* 4 ” = ee
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14 ‘He came in through the window, senor, and sought to assassinate me, but I fired ere he could use his knife. That is all there is about it,” said Dare to the landlord, who quickly gazed into the face of the dead man and started back with the ory: . “ Jt is Juan! my second clerk!” “He lowered himself from the roof to the window with this lariat,” said Clover. “‘T am glad, indeed, senor, that you came to no harm, and he deserved his fate,” the landlord said, yet half-dazed by the knowl- edge that his trusted clerk had proven an assassin. The body was removed, and leisurely dress- ing himself, for it was near dawn, Cecil Dare went to the office, paid his bill and with Clover strolled down toward the shore. There, just at dawn a boat was secured and they rowed out to the schooner-of-war, which almost immediately got up anchor and standing out past gloomy San Juan De Uloa, was soon breasting the blue waters of the Gulf. ‘Lieutenant Orville, let me present to ou my new-found friend, Master Clover, or I know him by no other name. ‘‘ Twice has he saved my life since I have been ashore, and he is to have the berth aboard as my secretary, until he chooses to © higher,” said Captain Dare, as Lieutenant rville came on deck. The heutenant cordially greeted the hand- some lad,and the other officers, having already heard of his rescue at the duel, through the men, who loudly sung his praises, compli- mented him in a manuer that made him feel welcome at once, especially when the cap- vag related the two other attempts upgn his ife. But, as the mysterious youth, confessing himself an American, saw fit to explain nothing more about himself, he became at once an object of curiosity on account of the mystery hanging over him. Their captain had addressed him simply as Clover. lf he knew of any other name he did not mention it, so that, as ‘‘ Clover,” the youth was entered upon the schooner’s book, with the words: ‘*Oaptain’s clerk.” As there was an empty state-room in the cabin, it was assigned to Clover, by the cap- tain’s orders, and all saw that the young \ stranger aboard ship was to be treated as an honored guest, for the steward was ordered to place a seat for him at the commander’s table, which caused one of the middies to re- mark: ; eo. name it is Clover, and I live in clover.” Ya With the information gleaned at Vera Cruz regarding the Red Rover of the Gulf, as Lamonte was now called by seamen, Cap- tain Dare headed at once for the Balize, hop- ing to find him somewhere off the Delta. hat night, after supper, as Dare stood on the quarter-deck alone, Clover joined him and entered into conversation, which at last led the captain to say; ‘*By the way, Cloyer, you said when in Vera Cruz, you might give me some infor- mation regarding this Red Rover of the Gulf.” “Yes, sir, of Lamonte.” ‘* Such is his name.” — speak, Cecil Dare again asked: “What do you know of this pirate, Clover?” “A great deal, sir.” , **Indeed! Have you ever seen him?” | ** Often, sir.” ‘*When?” “T saw him last about eight months ago.” **Where?” ‘On board of his goleta, Captain Dare.” “Ah! you have been on board his vessel, then?” “* Yes, sir.” “ As a prisoner?” : ANG, at. “What else could you have been on that pirate craft, Clover, other than a prisoner?” aaa ate, sir,” was the startling response of “ -. - CHAPTER XXVIL _— BENOR ESCALON’S CONDITIONS. ‘Tn morning’s dawn iu Vera Cruz brought | ayer The Red Flag Rover. dead peon had been found in the street, not far from the Monte Casino, and a clerk of the Plaza Hotel had attempted to assassinate a stranger guest in his room. That guest, the commander of an Ameri- can sloop which had been lying at anchor in the port of the town for several days, had also been engaged ina duel with Captain Almo Urbana, while he had won large sums as well from the Mexican officer, Banker Es- calon, ard even Valverde the gambler. At dawn after his attempted assassination he had set sail on his schooner, having simply left for the alcaide his written statement of the assassination. Of course these stories were enlarged at every repetition, and when. Valverde and Banker Escalon went to dine with the wounded Captain Almo Urbana, the rumors floating about had caused a vast deal of ex- citement. Very much fatigued by all they had passed through, both Senor Valverde and Banker Escalon had slept late and then had break- fast togetber. Then they learned that both of their hire- lings had met with the fate they had intend- ed for their victim. ‘‘T cannot understand it,” said Valverde, for Potosi the peon was as cunning as a fox, as noiseless in his movements as a snake and as fierce as a wolf.” “The boy followed him, as he did the American, and gave the alarm to his friend,” Banker Escalon said. ‘*T Welieve you have hit the right explana- tion, Escalon,” said Valverde, excitedly, “How else could your man have been killed?” ‘‘?rue, that solves the mystery; but then Juan also met his death at the hands of the American.” ‘Yes, and atthe hands of a most extraor- dinary man.” ‘*T confess it; but what is to be done now?” ‘‘The American has gone?” ‘Yes, his vessel sailed soon after sunrise, they say.” ‘* Well, I see nothing to be done, and ad- mit we are worsted badly.” ‘Yes, and three of us against one, a stran- ger in the land, and victor over us at our own game.” The two men seemed to by no means enjoy the retrospection, and while bemoaning their ill fortune, a note came from Captain Ur- bana asking them to dine with him that day, and to come early. They obeyed the summons, and found the captain in a very warm humor, He was in possession of the facts, as they knew them, and after he had heard all that they had to tell, he added: ‘*But J have a chance to avenge myself, senor.” Both were anxious to know how, and he opened an official document, just received from the City of Mexico, and which he read to them, the contents being to the effect that the Government had decided, as he, Captain Almo Urbana of the army, was a man of great wealth, and desired to exchange from the service ashore to service afloat, he woulda be appointed a captain in the navy of Mex- ico, if he cared to go to the expense of pur- chasing a vessel-of-war just built and ready for sea. This vessel the Government, in a fit of economy, could not afford to purchase, so left it for him to do so, if he cared enough for service afloat to expend the money for his ship, and he would be ordered upon special service to hunt down the lawless rovers of the sea. . ‘* Now, senors, you see my chance, do you not, to ane myself?” said Captain Ur- bana, excitedly. **T don’t exactly see how you mean,” dryly responded Banker Escalon. “Why, with a good ship under me I can a ' ’-| sink the fellow anc all his crew.” ‘*But your orders are to go pirate-hunt- g.” ‘Bah! can I not mistake him for a pirate?” . | ‘*Ah, yes, you might; but about this vessel you have to purchase?” the gambler said. pa oe oe 1 At this Urbana glanced helplessly toward Banker Escalon, The latter said nothing and did not even e excitement to its people, for a | seem to see his look. As Urbana did not reply, Senor Valverde asked: ‘Does your paper give the amount of purehase money to get the vessel?” ‘* Yes, ninety thousand pesos cash, and she is completely fitted out, guns, small-arms and all, while she is said to be a remarkably fleet craft.” en ‘* What is her rig?” x > ta “A brig, and she is three hundred tons burden,” said Captain Urbana, glancing at his official papers. “You are said to be a rich man, Captain Urbana, but the sum you need to buy the vessel is a fortune in itself,” “Tam aware that it is a large sum, Senor Valverde, but I hoped to have some aid in the purchase of the vessel,” and Captain Urbana again looked appealingly toward Banker Escalon, who now said: “Well, you might gat aid, wpon conditions, and perhaps you and I, Valverde, might be willing to take shares in the brig.” . “Yes, if you deem the venture a good one and are willing to take a third, I will do as much,” said Valverde. aa ** T will take two-thirds, Valverde, and you the other.” ‘* And Captain Urbana?” asked Valverde, with surprise, ‘* Weill, the captain’s fortune is just now so tied up he cannot get hold of the money, so he will put in his services against our gold, but, as I said before, wpon conditions.” ‘‘Name your conditions, Escalon, for I see that you have some plan in that busy brain of yours,” said Urbana. ‘*How much of a. share does the Govern- ment claim of your prizes, may I ask?” ‘* One-half.” ‘‘And the balance is to pay expenses and be divided between you and your crew?” “ce Yes.” oad : **Then you get the honor only?” | gh oy ‘* About that.” ; ary | ‘Then my conditions are that you take — your vessel, as though you purchased her yourself, ship a crew to suit yourself, ther. marry the Senorita Ravera, if you cun, and failing in this to tarn your craft into a free rover and fight for a fortune under the black flag,” was the ‘startling conditions offered by the Banker Escalon. CHAPTER XXVIII. IN THE NET. ; Ir Captain Urbana was not startled at the bold conditions demanded by Banker Es- calon, his face belied him, for he turned very pale, and seemed like one struck dumb by what he heard. ‘ weter |: t Banker Escalon laughed, while Senor Val-— J, verde joined in, as though he enjoyed the situation, also, immensely. ; ‘*Then it is a joke?” at last said Captain Urbana, with a faint smile, as though he — too began to see the fun in the proposition of Escalon. % ‘*Joke? Well, itis nothing of the kind,” returned Banker Escalon, and he added: ‘‘ As I will soon convince you, my ‘dear ie Captain Urbana.” cad “I wish you would let me understand = = what you are driving at,” angrily saidthe = = soldier. \ = “Ttis your. due, and Iwill; but, remem- = | ber, I am telling a great secret, and one which Valverde and I alone know. B ‘You listen to it in confidence only; you will Pons yourself?” . “Twill.” LN “Well, let me tell you that though our friend here is known only as Senor Henrico Valverde, he is living a dual life, as 1 am, Ryo esq you are, and many more ofus, supposed tobe saints. . $ SES we ‘‘ Now you know something of Senor Val- mth verde’s life, and that after meni af abet Ge oa hood he disappeared for some years, butre- = appeared with a fortune which he said he a had dug from the mountain mines.” ‘‘] have so understood.” EE he E ‘Now the mincs he worked were the | mountain trails leading to and from the i mines, and he made considerable money thereby.” Le ea ‘‘You would infer that he was a road- — bandit?” CAS Nera ate ‘Of course, what else? ; “You. have heard of Henrico, the Wayman?” Wane ie, “Who has not, and he on one - -
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_ “~~ for what debts you 7 _ cautious reply of Valverde. “money ready not play with our cards.” halted me and took all I had, some three hundred pesos, but, strange to say, some years ago I received the sum back agai» The Red Flag Rover. **He was wise,” sneered Captain Urbana. **Yes, and we dared uot open our lips for fear he would refer to the duel,” but let me with a note from Henrico saying that he re- | tell you that your first cruise must be to the gretted the robbery and begged to return me } hacienda harbor, where you can become the what he had borrowed,” ‘* Yes, I concluded to give you back your money, Captain Urbana, after I had the pleasure of meeting you here socially.” ‘What! you, Valverde?” ** Yes, senor,” ** You do not mean—” ‘“*T only mean that 1am Henrico, the High- ‘wayman,’ came the rejoinder. Almo Urbana was fairly shocked, and again Banker Escalon laughed, and the self- confessed robber joined in the merriment. “Well, you certainly mystify me, senors?” ‘Let me explain, senor, that Henrico Val- verde and myself were boys together, and ‘we were in several scrapes then that, would not bear confessing, anc thus we were bound together. ** When I went into the banking business, Valverde called one night, told me who he was and asked me to dispose of the booty he got in his robberies. “*T was struck favorably with the idea, accepted his terms and we have made a great deal of money together in our partner- ship. ‘‘Then Senor Valverde decided to come here to live, playing the role of gentleman gambler, and you may have noticed that he often makes trips away for a week or so?” ‘**T have.” ‘Then it is that he visits his band, while he has here in the town several spies, two of whom have been wiped out by your Ameri- can friend. ** Now, senor, my plan is, and Valverde agrees to it, that you go into partnership with us. ‘‘We will buy you the vessel and you ee command and go on a cruise where you owill. ** But one-half of your plunder and prize money, goes to Valverde and myself, and the other half will pay expenses, yourself and men, and your share will be a liberal one. “Run out as a Mexican brig of course, but then hoist your free flag and let the world know you are afloat. ‘‘Your first plan will be to sail for the hacienda harborage of Don Ramon Ravera. ‘“What you tell bim incidentally, of hap- pening in Vera Cruz, must forever destroy all hope which the American captain can have of making her his wife. ‘That L leave to you, and it will be well to profess sincere friendship and all that for the American, and regret at his behavior, which will be whatever you please to make it, “Then find out what. your prospects are to marry the beautiful Rachel, and if they are good then stick to the legitimate service until she is your wife, when you will have enough, after we get our share to live upon, and we will only take one-half. “ But the Don?” “Ah, neither Senor Valverde or myself take a man's life into considerat.on, and, of course, he will not live long and his daughter will inherit all.” “Tf I capnot win the lady to, marry me?” “Then hoist your black flagand go to work like a good buccaneer.” “Tf I refuse to become an outlaw at your will?” ‘Well, I'll simply haye to sell you out it owe me, and I have sun- dry bits of paper, my dear captain, which Dear names you executed, which will—” “Stop! I will accept your conditions,” was the stern reply of the officer who was now driven to the wall. s “You are sure, senor?” dryly said Val- verde, “T think so,” returned Banker Escalon, ‘When will you give me the money to buy this vessel?” 2 ‘We will buy the vessel for you,” was the Yes, fou can accept the Govern- ment’s offer Ps once, and we Will have the e within ten days, for that American got five thousand cash out of us Jast night, and as much more from you which I advanced, and ail because he would ee guest of Don Ramon for a week or more.” **T understand,” said Captain Urbana moodily, 5 EE CHAPTER XXIX. A COMMISIONED PIRATE. Captain AutmMo Urpana did not place himself wholly in the toils of Banker Esca- lon without a bonus for himself. He examined into his affairs and dis- covered that if he was sold out he would have, after all debts were paid, some five thousand pesos in cash. This he showed to Banker Escalon and de- manded that sum, and that a few outstand- ing debts should be paid besides. His terms were agreed to after some hesi- tation. Since receiving his wound, the Mexican officer had not gone to the club of the sol- diers, nor in public anywhere. He did not appear at the Casino, and sim- ply went about his duties of getting his ves- sel ready for sea by a given time. One day he met a rival officer, the only man who had not been afraid to try his skill with him with asword or pistol, ; They had never liked each other, and ob- serving the disfigured face of his rival, Major Felipe had said with a rude laugh: ‘Ah, Urbana, glad to see you, for since your duel with that American who wounded you, you have kept very close; but I don’t wonder, for he certainly has marked you for life, and you are no longer the handsome Apollo you were.” Quickly shot out the Mexican captain’s right hand from the shoulder, and Major Felipe of the artillery was knocked down. The next day Captain Urbana went about his duties as usual, while the town was ring- ing with the story of his desperate duel with Major Felipe, whom he had run through the heart after half an hour’s combat. ‘‘The Lion was not wholly tamed by the American,” was the remark of one of Major Felipe’s regiment, and again people began to feel that Almo Urbana was not to be trifled with, and he became as much feared as before his duel with Cecil Dare. At last the brig was ready for sea, but, to the great disappointment of the people, her commander slipped away in the night, and only Senors Escalon and Valverde could have told of the parting supper in the cabin when toast after toast was drank to the suc- cessful cruise of the ‘* Relentless.” Upon his deck stood Almo Urbana, look- ing astern at the lights disappearing in. the dim distance, and with his thoughts busy. He remembered how his career had opened brilliantly for him in his youthful aie and yet he had cast aside all for a wild life of dis- sipation and gaming. He saw it all now, how two fortunes had been squandered, and that had he not gotten the opening to go to sea in command of the brig, he would have had to fly to save him- self from prison. ; Luis Escalon the banker, alone stood be- tween him and a convict’s garb, and he was his friend only to use him. Had Escalon diced suddenly, then flight alone would have saved the Mexican officer, The world believed Urbana rich, and yet Escalon had all of his wealth, for value re- ceived, and this secret the two held between them unti! Valverde had been taken into the partnership, ; Still Urbana did not doubt but that Es- calon had secretly protected himself at his a Fey ; o the time had come at last when he must make a venture, like a last effort to save a sinking ship, 4 Fhe world believed him honored by the command of the brig, and the Government had honored him, only on conditions, which caused him to purchase the vessel himself. _ The junta believed that he had purchased it from his own means, but he knew that he was but a tool, the slave of Escaion. It had been a surprise to him to know that Valverde was the famous robber chief. Henrico, and that Escalon was the receiver of his stolen goods; but he wasin their secret | now, as they held his. He would doubtless develop into a séa outlaw, with Escalon the disposer of his plunder. The three had been mixed up in the treachery toward the American officer, and been worsted, while he had a glaring scar across his face which disfigured him for life, destroying the handsome face he had been so proud of. This imbittered him and made him re- vengeful, and woe be unto Cecil Dare should the Relentless cross the path of the American schooner-of-war Sea Soldier. But the Mexican outlaw was.determined to make a last desperate struggle not to go down in the whirlpool of crime, and it would bring him a sweet revenge, too, and that was to marry Rachel! Ravera. Could he win her, with her vast fortune, he could pay off his obligations to Escalon, silence Valverde, and owning the brig him- self, he could go up the ladder of rank and fame unaided, while, for her sake he would cast the evil past behind him. And this, too, would bring the revenge he sought against Cecil Dare, by robbing him of his bride. Such was the plan of the newly commis- sioned naval officer. But if all failed, then he would, if he had to turn pirate, have his reyenge upon Es- calon as well, for he would turn his vessel into a lawless cruiser, giving no account to any one, and living for himself alone, while, if refused by Rachel Ravera he would bold- ly kidnap her ard force her to become his wife, With this plan in his mind this commis- sioned pirate laid his course for Hacienda Harbor, where he was sure of a cordial wel- come from Don Ramon, who had always been hisfriend. © CHAPTER XXX. CAPTAIN URBANA ARRIVES AT HACIENDA HARBOR. ‘*Faruer, what a beautiful vessel,” cried Rachel Ravera, as she sat upon the broad piazza of the hacienda one pleasant after- noon, engaged in reading, while her father lazily dozed in a hammock. At her words he arose and gazing seaward a moment then turned and took down a glass which he turned upon a vessel a league or ee away, Out upon the blue waters of the ulf. . 7 ‘*She is a beautiful vessel, a brig, and if she goes about in a few minutes she will be Sesipae: for the harbor, Rachel,” said the on. “*T hope it is Captain Dare,” said Rachel, joyfully. ‘*You forget, m} child, that his vessel is a schooner, and yonder craft a brig—there! — she goes about and beads for the harbor.” “It cannot be a pirate, father,” and the. face of the maiden paled. “T see that the guard is giving the alarm, so that we will be ready for him if he is a buccaneer, Rachel.” ‘ “There goes her flag. father!’ ‘« Yes, and it is the eagle and the serpent —our own flag, but 1 know of no such ves- sel in our navy.” ‘Perhaps the Mexican flag may be a blind, father, and she be after all a lawless cruiser?” ‘Well, she will find herself in hot quar- ters if she ventures in here, my child, and now I see the wisdom of Captain Dare’s urg- ing my fortifying the pass, for we were wholly unprotected before. ‘See! there go the men to the guns,” and as the Don spoke, around the bacienda wall dashed two-score mounted men atarun, They rode rapidly to a point behind the little fort, where their horses were corraled, and as they sprung to their guns, having © heard the tocsin % alarm sounded by the sentinel on the lookout, another force came at a double quick from the hacienda, led by the manager of the estate. “You see our men are well trained, Rachel, and sixty good fellows in those works could beat off a frigate, even ne | manded by your hero, Captain Dare,” the Don smiled mischievously, _~ ‘J doubt it, father; in fact, I believe Cap- silence our fort,” returned Rachel, words proved her confidence in her Jover. — The brig meanwhile had stood into the « ert + tain Dare could run in with his schooner and _ ae oil y a a ~~ = Sapte: “de es:
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16 The Red Flag Rover. pass, and as a shot was fired over her, she rounded to. ‘‘What in Satan’s name does that mean? ‘«The Don has an armed fort here,” cried Captain Urbana, who stood on the deck gaz- ing through the pass at the hacienda. e knew the approach well, having several times visited the hacienda by water, and once camped with his command a few leagues in the rear of Don Ramon’s home for over a month. “You know, now, that the Scnorita Ravera was kidnapped half a year ago and the Don has doubtless garrisoned a fort since ow for protection,” said an officer of the rig. “That is doubtless it, Senor Pasquale, so lower a boat and send it under flag of truce to report the Mexican brig-of-war Relentless, Captain Almo Urbana, who desires to pay his compliments to Don Ramon,” The officer gave the necessary orders, and the boat went into the pass, landing at the fort, whither Don Ramon had already gone. The boat soon returned with Don Ramon’s compliments and an invitation for Captain Urbana and his officers to make the hacienda their home. The brig at once got under way again, and as she swept in by the little fort, dipped her flag and fired a salute, after which she ran in to a harborage and dropped anchor. As Captain Urbana stepped on the little wharf he was met by Don Ramon, who started visibly at the hideous red scar adown his cheek, for he had heard nothing of the duel between the Mexican and the American officer, Captain Urbana’s face colored at the look, and he said, bitterly: ‘‘T am slightly disfigured, Don Ramon, Since last we met; but I will explain at an- other time, so now permit me to say how I appreciate your kind welcome.” he Don returned some pleasant rejoinder, and led the way to the hacienda, where the guest was greeted by Rachel, who also noted the ugly scar with unfeigned surprise, and this Urbana also observed, and said in the same bitter tone, which he tried to hide un- der gallantry: “My face is disfigured, Senorita Rachel, but my heart is the same, always the same.” _ “Permit me to'congratulate you, senor, upon your change of service, and promotion to the command of so beautiful a vessel,” said Rachel Ravera, wishing to change the subject from the cruel scar upon the face of the officer. “She is a beautiful craft, senorita, and I shall have the pleasure of showing yourself and the Don all over her, and having you test my cwisine, also, for you must dine with me to-morrow.” ‘And remember, Captain Urbana, you and your officers are our guests so long as you please to honor us with your company.” “Thank you, Don; but my officers will be busy for the rest of the day, getting the ship in trim after her cruise, but they will enjoy be hospitalities at a later day, for I shall rdly care to sail from such a delightful re- treat within a week.” “And then, Captain Urbana, where will you cruise?” ‘“My mission is a special one, Don Ramon, for I go out as a pirate-hunter.” “Yes, and the United States Government has sent Captain Cecil Dare upon the same special service, and he has been most suc- cessful in his mission,” said Rachel. ‘So [have heard,” significantly responded Almo Urbana, and he saw the blush that mantled the cheeks of the maiden at his words, and smiled wickedly as cruel thoughts flashed through his mind. CHAPTER XXXI. THE CAPTAIN ‘SPINS A YARN.” Born Don Ramon and the Senorita Rachel were curious about the red scar down th face of the Mexican captain. Those were not the days of steam and telegraph, of newspaper enterprise, and liv- ing afar as they did from the cities, tidings of a ¥ was going on in the outside world came to them slowly. With an extensive library, a luxurious home, music, boating, sailing and a stable _ full of horses, there w while within a radius ars fn Ee : ac are ‘ ae | . ’ as plenty of enjoyment, | ; of thirty miles dwelt a' cheating; but this they were unable to do, number of rancheros and their families who often visited at the hacienda of the Don, being always sure of a most cordial welcome; but what was going on in the outside world was not heard until months after its occur- rence, unless.a special craft was sent to Vera Cruz for stores and thus brought back the news. So the Don was anxious to know all that had been going on and was delighted at the coming of the Mexican brig into his harbor. He had always liked Captain Urbana, for that cunning officer had never shown any we the bright side of his character to the on. In fact the Don had thought of him asa possible husband for his daughter, until the rescue of her by Cecil Dare had soon shown him that Rachel’s heart was interested for life in the handsome and daring young American, Having himself wedded an American lady, he did not hold the prejudice of his country- men against foreigners. After coming from his room, Captain Ur- bana joined bis host and hostess in the spacious library. He spoke of matters in general, and then, as though he was not aware of the fact of Rachel having been kidnapped by the Rover of the Lagoon and rescued by Cecil Dare, he began by saying that he had been involved in a very unfortunate affair with-a foreigner at the Monte Casino. As all Mexican gentlemen gambled, noth- ing was thought of the fact that he was not an exception to the rule, and so both the father and daughter listened with interest to his story, as, depending upon his imagination and discarding facts, he told it to suit his own purbose, ‘«The truth is,” he went on, ‘‘I felt sorry for the stranger, as he seemed to be wholly unknown, and Banker Luis Escalon, whom you doubtless know, Don Ramon, was my partner.” ‘Yes, I know Senor Escalon, and bank with him. “He is a fine fellow,” said the Don. “Valverde you may also know?” ** Yes, yet I have never cared to cultivate him,” ‘‘ Many do not like Henrico Valverde, but he is a royally good fellow, and we three were together when I asked the stranger to join us in a game. ‘He did so, naming a large sum to play for, and desiring that only two of us should play. “‘He won from the first game, and as I lost all I cared to risk, for I have a limit, never going beyond my income, I thought I detected him doubling cards upon me, and so accused him, and both Escalon and Val- verde sustained me in the charge. ‘The result was he gave me a blow, and of course a challenge and duel followed. ‘He insisted upon a certain point upon the shore as the place of meeting, and at sun- rise the next morning, Ae “I went, intending to disarm him, give him his life, and demand that he leave Vera Cruz, for you know my prowess as a swords- man, Dion Ramon?” “Yes, I have yet to hear of your meeting your equal, Captain Urbana.” “Well, senor, we crossed blades, Senor Escalon acting as his second, Valverde as mine, when suddenly there appeared upon the scene, led by a lad who has been em- 5 abe at the Casino, a party of seamen who t once attacked us. *T received this cut that you see, from my adversary’s sword, when I became negligent in my surprise at the coming of the seamen, and finding that they were there to protect their commander and wage war against Es- calon, Valverde and myself, we retreated from the field. ; “The boy, it seems, was in the pay of the card-sharps who frequent the Monte Casino, and it is said that he, by signs, and double cards, aided certain men for a con- sideration, and he certainly led&those seamen against a4 friends and myself” on the duel- ing-groun ‘| returned to my quarters, and that night Valverde and Escalon again attended the Casino, where the stranger put in an ap- pearance and boldly asked them to play, ‘“They consented, hoping to catch him at ——— ee ee ‘oni though he won_a large sum from each, and they had not a game to their credit, ‘* The boy was also there, 1 may add, and left the Casino with the stranger. “The next day I learned of a murder be- ing committed near the Casino, and _ this stranger was suspected, while that night in his hotel the clerk, Senor Juan, was killed in this man’s room, “It was said that Juan had descended from the roof, through a window, to rob the stranger, but many believe that he was in- vited into the room to play, and detecting the stranger’s character, was killed by him, and the lariat afterward put down from the roof to help out the story of his going there for robbery. ; “That morning at dawn the stranger sailed, and I had plenty to do in fitting out my vessel, having been ordered upon sea duty, and tell you my story now only to ex- plain about this terrible wound.” ‘And who was the stranger, Captain Ur- bana?” ** An American naval officer, Don Ramon, by the name of Cecil Dare,” was the inno- cently-uttered reply, and which brought from Senorita Rachel the ringing words: “Tt is false! utterly false [” CHAPTER XXXII. UNDER A CLOUD. Tue ringing words of Rachel Ravera fairly startled Captain Urbana. He had expected, when he mentioned the name of the man, against whom he had con- cocted so bold a tale, that he would be met at first by a denial, which, however, he was well prepared to offset by certain proofs from certain officers on board his vessel who had been made to see the affair in the light of their commander's eyes. That Rachel should speak as she did showed to Almo Urbana that her love for the ee captain was not to be easily shaken ©) ‘““My dear Senorita Ravera, in what way have I offended you that you claim my story to be a falsehood?” he asked in an injured tone, as though he could not comprehend his having done or said aught that was wrong. ‘* You accuse Captain Cecil Dare, senor, with being a card-sharp, and a man who called upon his seamen to protect him in a duel with you, while further you lay the charge of a double murder against him!” said Rachel excitedly, and vainly striving to be calm. 8S ““T did accuse an officer of the American navy, who registered himself as Cecil Dare, of what you say, Senorita Ravera, and I be- lieve all that 1 say against him, while I really consider him to be a fraud, that he is not a naval officer of the United States, but a pirate, playing the daring part as the com- mander of a cruiser, and as such boldly put. into Vera Cruz.” ‘‘My dear Urbana, this is a fearful, a ter- rible accusation,” cried the Don. ‘‘Tt is utterly and unqualifiedly false, for — Captain Cecil Dare is a man of honor, a gentleman and a commander in the wets of be that of Captain Dare would b fact a pirate have taken his name ie a oe 7 oe a "said Rachel. 9) ‘Yes, and there the United States, and as such he coul guilty of no mean or wrong action,” warmly — said Rachel. “You asked the Mexican officer. “Know him? Why lowe to him more — than life, for at the risk of his life he saved me from Lamonte the Sea Rover who had kidnapped me, and I am to-day pledged to | i become his wife.” ** My God! but, senorita, can we be think- Ais t Se ing of the same man . ; pratt ‘I refer, senor, to Captain Cecil Dare, commander of the American schooner-of-war Sea Soldier. «« And sach was the name of the man, and : of his vessel, to whom I refer; but may ~ some one else have imposed upon me, and to rum into Vera Cruz?” ye ‘That may be, senor, Ra and both Don Ramon and Rachel said that his. description was the counterpart of what while the maiden added: and more, that one, Cec Rage him then, Senorita Ravera?” — in “Pray describe the man, senor,” said Dom ‘ ayly pte . omaha | This Captain Urbana did most eargrt cannot be two such men, il Dare, cannot be sd Sa ~e e ~ ee % Zz é x A oe EE, wear, A. eT | Nya )X 23 j ied ae. a ag : poy eer a es +727
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PISS EE OE OEE 2 G4 a no fos’ aN bit oj ne ‘ ra} for me Sie: i ‘a fair likeness?” ‘SRE laa pertett Obes |. es NS pa Ue ost Ean i fielther 4) by Then we wi i} see Jif either Sanchez or —_—_—_ guilty of the vile charges against him which you make, and he is not.” ‘‘My child! be not so severe upon Captain Urbana, our life-long friend, in your defense | of the American officer, who, after all, is but a stranger to us,” said the Don reprov- ingly. ‘*¢ Father, are you turning against one to whom you are so deeply indebted?” sternly said Rachel. *“No, but I have no reason to doubt Cap- tain Urbana’s statement, and he has no cause to accuse Dare wrongfully. ** We met him under circumstances when he nobly served us, and wounded in our defense, he came hereand remained for some weeks, ‘‘ Again he came to us, and we found him all that we could desire in a noble friend, and he departed with you pledged to be- come his wife. ‘Now comes Captain Urbana, knowing nothing even of our acquaintance with this American stranger, and shows a scar that will last him to his grave, while he tells us of this man, calling himself Cecil Dare, who has swindled not only himself but two other cage at. cards, brought to the field of onor his seamen to protect him, and been involved in two death-scenes which point strongly to him as the guilty man. ‘«T must say, my child, that there is a pos- sibility that we have been deceived in this man, and until we are convinced that we wrong him, we should believe the statement of one whom we know to be above sus- ; picion.” Rachel was evidently impressed by her | father’s reasoning, and replied: “1 do not charge Captain Urbana with misrepresentation, father, nor do I so wish him to understand; but I do say that the one | whom he has met is not Cecil Dare.” ‘“‘T did not believe, Senorita Ravera, that | you would intentionally accuse me of falsely | speaking against any man; but I told you the facts as I know them, and it is now for | us to discover if your friend, Captain Dare, | and the man I know by that name, and to my | bitter cost, as you see, is one and the same. | ‘‘From what you say, there must be some | mistake, and I hope, for your sake, that | there is, so let us quietly look the whole | affair in the face and see if we cannot find a | straw of hope for you that some one has impersonated the gallant American officer whom you know.” His manner was 80 kindly that Rachel felt | sorry that she had been so severe toward chim, and said: | “You told us that some of your officers | met the man who called himself Cecil . ; . | . Dare?” : : “Yes, senorita, Lieutenant Rafael San- chez met him at the Casino the night of our play, and a junior officer by the name of | Michaelis, saw him at the hotel the night of Clerk Juan’s murder, and signed the paper clearing him from censure in killing a man who bad entered his room to rob him.” “ Will you not send for those two officers, Captain Urbana, and have them dine with | us?” said Don Ramon.” “With pleasure, Don Ramon, I will write | them a line if you will send it by a messen- _” ger. . * 2 Paper and quill were given himand a note | ‘was hastily written as follows: “You are invited, Senor Sanchez, in company | srith Oticer Michael x haelis, to dine to-day with Don Ramon and daughter, who a) T told you about the American Cecil Dare. - wats A will be to your interest to state factsas I gave | them to you, and not as from merely hearsay. | oe . . “URBANA,” ¥ This note was dispatched aboard the brig, Gt being yet an hour before the dinner hour, | : ang then Captain Urbana said: ‘Gan you not in some way aid us, senorita, you and the Don, in discovering if the gentleman whom you defend, and the man whom I denounce, are one and the same?” 4 ) ’ 5 . . “J have a miniature likeness of Captain Dare, : 0 Captain, which he had painted RTE and brought me upon his $499 | ” . ad yours?” a It. ’ to doubt the The Red Flag Rover. ‘« Yes, but is there anything about his ves- 17 into the next room as I call you, it will be a. sel you would know, if I spoke of a certain | favor to me,” and the Don went into an ad- marked pecuiiarity?” ‘f Yes, what was her figure-head?” ‘© A soldier with drawn sword in an atti- tude of leading a charge.” ‘* Yes, yes, the schooner had such a figure- head, Captain Urbana,” and Rachel’s eyes dimmed with tears, for a net seemed to be encircling her lover from which there .ap- peared to be no escape for him, CHAPTER XXXII. TRUE AS STEEL. ‘‘Trrere is a peculiarity in the rig of Cap- tain Dare’s schooner, Captain Urbana, which I noticed particularly,” said Don Ramon, evidently distressed at the seeming proof of Cecil | Dare’s' guilt, yet looking upon Almo Urbana as one who would rescue his daugh- ter froma fate equally as terrible as that from which the American had. *‘T recall, senor, that she was a square- sail schooner, and though her masts were very tall, her topmeasts were particularly so, and she carried a long spar hauled to an up- right alongside the foremast that seemed to indicate that she could hoist a lateen sail aloft when going before the wind.” | } joining room and quickly called to Captain Jrbana. ‘Who is this, Captain Urbana?” and he tock from his pocket the velvet case inclosing the miniature. “Tt is the American, Senor Den, who gave me the wound. «1 would know him among a hundred.” ‘“‘ And acw for Lieutenant Sanchez,” said the Don, calling. upon that officer. ‘‘ May I ask if you have ever seen this face before, Lieutenant. Sanchez?” ‘« Yes, sir, it is the American whom I saw at the Monte Casino, and a perfect likeness it is of him, too,” was the prompt response. Teas you,” and the Doun’s voice quiv- ered. Officer Michaelis was then called. and shown the miniature. _.‘*Do you recognize this likeness, senor, as one of myself, taken years ago?” “*No, Don Ramon, it is the American officer whom I saw at the Pluza Hotel in Vera Cruz twu months ago.” “Gentlemen, I thank you,” and the Don led the way in to dinner after casting the velvet-incased. miniature out of the open ‘‘That is his vessel, Captain Urbana, for | window into the flower garden. we sailed with him several times, and greatly enjoyed the beauty and speed of hie schooner. “Tt was fitted up with extravagant luxury too, we thought.” I did not go on board, senor, but merely rowed around her at her anchorage, and none of her officers and men came ashore, except her captain, and those who were on hand to interfere iu the duel.” “That was strange.” “Yes, Don Ramon, it was indeed, and as all courtesies from our own fort officers were refused, and none offered by the American, her short. stay in Vera Cruz made anything but a good impression there, Lassure you.” Rachel now arose and left the room, her heart too full for utterance, and after her de- parture the Don was constrained to admit that he believed that they had been imposed upon by a pirate. When the two officers arrived from the brig, Rachel’s peon maid Irma, came into the room with a small velvet case which she handed to Don Ramon with the remark that the senorita desired to be excused, as she was indisposed, but sent the miniature for the Mexican officers to see. — Then Irma left the room, but stopped just outside the door to learn what was said. The Don grected the officers cordially, and then explained the situation, appealing first to Lieutenant Rafael Sanchez, by saying: ‘‘You saw this alleged American officer at the Monte Casino, I believe, Lieutenant Sanchez?” “Yes, Don Ramon, and I was struck by his very grand appearance, and the cool man- ner in which be played cards.”” “Did you see him elsewhere, may I ask?” ‘* No, senor.” _. “*And where did you see Captain Dare, Officer Michaelis?” “ At the Plaza Hotel, senor, on the night when Clerk Juan attempted to murder him.” ‘‘You really believe that Juan did make the attempt to murder and rob him?” ‘‘ Tf the lariat hanging from the roof over the open window was an indication, and Juan being found. in his room, with a knife, then there could be no doubt; but there was a whisper abcut after the American had one on board his vessel, that Juan had in his possession a large sum of money and went to the stranger’s room to play cards with him, while the knot with which the lariat was tied’ about the flag-staff was what was known as a sailor’s knot, while Juan was a landsman. “Then, too, the boy who was at the Casino was said to be an ally of the stranger, gre he certainly sailed in the schooner with im.” , ‘‘And the man who was killed near the Casino, who was he?” asked the Don, ner- vously. . «A half-breed messenger from the moun- tains, who brought gold to Valverde from his mines, but his leather kit was found to be empty when the body was discovered, Captain Urbana remarked: ie ; ; “* Well, senors, I have something here to show you, and if you will, one at a time, step He appeared to be a very genial host, but all could see that he suffered for his daughter, and soon after dinner the officers retired to the vessel, promising to call upon the mor- row. Then the Don ascended to his daughter’s room, where Irma had already made her report of what she had overheard, and brought back the miniature which she had seen thrown out of the window by the Don, And Irma had added: . ‘*Don’t believe it all, senorita, until you know he is false.” When the Don entered he found his daughter by the open window, and taking a seat near her he said sadly as he tock her hand in his: ** My child, the proof is too damning, and this man Cecil Dare is a pirate.” ‘* Father, until be tells me so himself I will not believe it,” was the firm response of the beautiful girl and a voice from the next room where Irma had retreated, firmly utter- ed the word; “« Bueno |” om CHAPTER XXXIV. CLOVER SPINS A YARN. Tuk assertion of the lad, Clover, to Cap-— tain Dare, that he had been a pirate, com- pletely nonplused that officer for a minute, or more. He had suspected the lad as having been a wild fellow who had run away from home to become a sailor, and who was accordingly meeting with the rough experience of many a boy who had done likewise but when he coolly told him that he had been @ pirate, the captain was nonplused. Still Cecil Dare was not the man to turn his back upon one who had served him so well, and he said after awhile: **Come, Clover, you do not mean that you were a bona fide buccaneer?” 7 “Yes, sir, 1 was a pirate, for I was one of the crew of the Rover of the Lagoons,” wis ie - vee bay hae the firm response. “Tell me how it came about, my lad?” kindly said Cecil Dare. — The lad was silent for some minutes and at Jast said: ae «Captain Dare, Iam a boy who can keep my own counsel, and I do not betray myself, or a friend; but I will tell you just what made mea pirate. ' “You see, sir, my mother was left a. widow, with several children to support, for — my father was a sea-captain, But oF Rosin, and he went down in his vessel, and we never again heard of him. — | "7 “The one who settled up‘the estate for my mother brought her in nothing, but asked her to weg | him, and, to educate’ her chil- dren she did so, for he was a very rich widower, with one child, a son of twenty- one. : ean a Oh self, and many a time have . blue from his kicks, ‘Our step-father treated I vowed, little boy of eight tt } : al thee pee hae fa ea i a [ been black and “This son, our step-brother, made 5 ea wretched for my mother, my sisters and my-
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Seige " -caneer rather than a dead sailor lad, Clover?” 18 The Red Flag Rover. ner in which the boy had said he had turned pirate. ‘“There was no choice, sir,” for Lamonte meant just what he threatened he would do, if we did not ship under his black flag. ‘‘He had been chased by an American cruiser and though he escaped he lost @ num- ber of men, so gave the half dozen of us on the coaster the alternative of walking the plank or joining him.” ‘‘How many walked the plank, Clover?” ‘* Not a single one of us, sir, and I believe that those I had shipped with were half pirates anyhow. ‘*T served with Lamonte at sea for several months before he put into port, and of course I did my duty, for it was not wise for me not to do so. *“Then he put in for his retreat for repairs, and there I got acquainted with its surround- ings and all abont it. ‘*T discovered that he had only lately been made chief, from having saved the former leader from capture one day in Hayana by hearing two Government officers arranging a plan to capture the buccaneer whose vessel was then in port. **From what they said Lamonte knew where to find the pirate craft, which was disguised in port, and went aboard and gave the alarm. **Captain Chevallo made him his lieuten- ant, and dying of a wound received some months later, he left the command to the T would run away and g@ to sea, make money and take my miother.and sisters to live with me some day. ‘‘My step-brother one day got into some trouble which caused him to fly to keep out of prison, for he forged the name of a rich gentleman to whose daughter he was en- gaged. *‘He was arrested by a constable, but killed the officer, and again made his escape, and several years after I heard my step- father tell my mother that there had been an American pirate hanged by a Spanish vessel- of-war at some port in the West Indies, who he was sure was his son Lester; for a Boston barque was in port at the time, and several of her crew recognized him. ‘From that day my step-father, who had been quite kind to my sisters and myself gince the going away of his son, again be- came terribly severe. “One of my sisters ran off and got mar- ried, and she certainly did not make her con- dition any worse. ‘The other got a position as governess in a Southern family, and that left me alone at home to face the constant displeasure of my step-father. “‘One night he beat me severely because’ I told him he was breaking my poor mother’s heart, and when dawn came I had shipped on a coasting vessel as cabin-boy. ““T made an unlucky selection in my craft, Captain Dare, for it proved to bea smuggler, and it was a year before I could | young pirate. make my escape. “At the retreat was Chevallo’s wife and “But the hard knocks and rough expe- | daughter, the former a lovely, refined, sad- #ience [ got made a good sailor of me, faced lady; and the latter a beautiful girl of ‘‘ When I did get a chance to escape I left | seventeen. the smugglers with the belief that I had been ‘*The maiden had taken a desperate fancy drowned, for I had found a boat one day | to Lamonte, and they were to be married that had drifted upon the island, and they | when she was eighteen years of age. ' knew nothing about it. / ‘*J ‘was sorry to know this, and liking the “T was in the habit of gcing for a swim | girl immensely myself, I was often with her every night, and this time I carried with me | and her mother, — other clothes, left those I wore upon the ‘One day Lamonte came to where ‘we rocks, and put off in the yawl. were, seated upon the bluff talking together, ‘*T was picked up at sea by a vessel which | for I was trying to get her to escape with her was bound to the West Indies, and some mother, and what money they had, and weeks after, lured by a false beacon, we were | Lamonte was so infuriated that he drew his wrecked in a storm. pistol and fired upon me. “‘T was sick below decks at the time, and ‘‘Here is the scar his bullet made on m that saved my life, for all the others in the | forehead; but it glanced and only half- vessel were lost. | stunned me, though I fell from the bluff into ‘“‘Phe next morning the wreckers came | the lake. off to the wreck, and at first I supposed they ‘* Having done this he walked away, be- woud kill me, but they spared me and | lieving that he had killed me, while, revived made a slave of me. by the water, I swam ashore, and, seen by “‘T was forced to light the false beacon on | Felice Chevallo, she came to my aid, stormy nights, and do all the work to be “To let Lamonte believe that I was alive done: but I was plotting an escape all the | would be my certain death, so I kept in time, and after a long time my chance came, | hiding for a week, when he sailed, and Felice for the wreckers sailed for Kingston with | brought me food every night. their booty in their little sloop, having left | ‘‘ One night she slipped a boat away from me alone on the island, certain that I could | the harborage, a stanch skiff decked over, never escape. and with stump mast and bowsprit. “But one morning I awoke to see a vessel| ‘She brought it to where I was hiding, becalmed three leagues away. and then left, to get a bag of provisions “The tide was setting out, and would run | which she had prepared. for several hours, so I rigged some spars, set ‘*Then she told me to go my way if I a staff with a flag upon it, and with an oar | would make her one pledge. and some provisions started upon my voy- — I promised, and she bade me fare- age. well.” or Had it not been for the flag, I would| ‘‘And the pledge?” have drifted by, for I did not go within a} ‘‘ Was that I would not reveal the secret ‘league of the vessel. of the Lagoon Retreat for one year from ‘But, waving the flag constantly I was | that night, and in that time she hoped to seen and & boat sent to me and I was saved. | marry Lamonte, for she was infatuated with ‘The vessel was a brig, bound from Balti- | the man, and get him to give up his lawless more to Havana, and I was kindly cared for | life and move away to another land with her by her captain, mother and herself. “Arriving at Havana I went to school, ‘‘This he had promised to do, and she for I had some money I had kept hidden | wished to give him the benefit of the year in away all the timey and thus a year passed, | which to keep bis word. when I shipped for Lima, Pern. ‘*T gave her my solemn pledge and then “Thus, going from vessel to I | rowed across the lake, down the lagoons and passed two more years drifting about the | out in the Gulf. world, and at last shipped upon a coaster ‘‘When morning dawned I was leagues bound from Sisal to Vera Cruz and we were | away, and keeping close along shore. captured by Lamonte the Red Rover of the| ‘‘In this way I made for Corpus Christi, Lagoons, and it was either walk the plank | and arriving there took a berth as cabin-bo or turn pirate, and so I chose to live and be | on a vesse bound to Charleston, Sout a buccaneer,” and Clover laughed lightly at | Carolina. the remembrance, while Captain Dare said:| ‘‘ There I left the ship and one night I “T must hear the rest of your story, | took the part of a poor sailor, who was being Clover, andnow.” ° 3 roughly handled, and a man attacked me —_-_ 1h ag with his knife, ~~ CHAPTER XXXV. _ “‘T drew my knife and met his attack, and CLOVER’S PLEDGE. LB | to save my life took his. . “So you thought it best to be a live buc- ‘‘ Fearful of the consequences to myself, ‘an almost penniless lad in a strange town d Captain Dare with a smile at the man-' accused of murder, Iran to the shore, and Sess eee NN cee e ee ee eee ; itfaniggstintitiyn nap adimapemnensiniias SF , swam down the harbor to a vessel-of-war which was just preparing to sail. ‘**T was given a berth on board, and at last thought I saw my way clear to win a name and a fortune, for I was determined to rise to the quarter-deck in time.” “But your hopes were then blasted, Clover?” said Captain Dare kindly. ne Yes sir, and I guess I am to blame for it. ‘* How so?” “Well, sir, my early life bad blunted my sensibilities, I suppose, and my career as a smuggler, wrecker and pirate had in no way improved me, for 1 had become what might be called a ‘tough youth. ‘‘The trouble was that 1 was too full of mischief, and I had on board the vessel-of- war as mates, a parrot, monkey and some other animals, all of which were quite chum- my with me, and I trained them to my own way until they became worse than a pestilence in the ship. “The result was that I was cordially hated by all of the officers except the ‘cap- tain, who was my friend unto his death, for he died at sea of a wound. ‘But he had made me an active middy, for services rendered, and when he died 1 lost my friend and protector. “Set upon bv the younger officers I de- fended myself, and in a general scuffle struck a lieutenant who was trying to protect me. ‘This made him angry, and I was at once seized, dismissed from my rank, and the cat- o’-nine-tails was called for to be introduced to my bare back. “Then I skipped aloft, ran out on the yard and sprung into the sea, and, as lama splendid swimmer I reached the shore, a league distant, and next turned up as a mes- senger in the Monte Casino in Vera Cruz.” ‘“A remarkable career, indeed, my brave lad; but about this pledge to the pretty — pirate?” “The year is aot yet up, sir, and J’! keep = pledge until it is—then IU pilot you there!” CHAPTER XXXVI. THE REFUSAL, CapTain Cacrt DARE had been a most atten- tive listener to the story of the lad’s life whose ath bad so strangely crossed his own, and so ortunately. He believed that Clover had told him the whole truth, for he did not think he was a boy to keep back anything, no matter how black it was against himeelf. Clover had no bad habits, for he had not seen him drink, beard him utter an oath, and he had told him that he had never gambled or become profane, : So he decided to question the boy a little more and asked: “Do you gamble, Clover?” ‘‘No, sir; I never bet on a card in my life.” ‘* How is it that I bave never seen you smok- ing the cigarritos that most boys smoke in Mex- ico? ‘* Well, sir, my mother asked me to promise ber I would not smoke until I grew to be a man, and [ will not break my promise.” ; **T don’t think you are profane, either,” He no, Captain Dare; I never utter an oath, “I suppose you have learned to take your grog regularly? ** No, sir; I am under the same promise about drinking I am with smoking, though I have taken a glass of grog, I admit, when worn out and wet at times.’ “Then you are a most model young pirate, Clover,” said Captain Dare, with a laug ‘Yes, sir: and thank you.” See “You are oue that most boys I know might copy after, in spite of your having been a smug- gler, wrecker and buccaneer.” ** You see, sir, I was forced to become what they made me; but I never took my share of pi- rate booty, sir; or rather, I never used it, forI gave it away to the men. “Had I taken my prizeanoney I ee je ott now some thousands in gold, instead of a bun-— dred or so pesos. “You are an bonest fellow, Clover, and though BOK you lost your middy’s berth on one Ame! vessel, my word for it that you will get it upon another. ; npr a, “Now, I am anxious to run this pirate La- monte to my and you can pilot me there?” es, sir, . BS TNE “Should he not be there, I can capture his stronghold and await his return to take bim,” Wall tito be anes iloche this Sanson Lain ot ell, then, be my pilo 8 Lagoon La Lamoute, and you Seal be a falledged shipman in this schooner the day you n "a ! eS ; mide — ry Bit Ee Pee WR Eds, =
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chor in the waters of the stronghold,” and Cecil Dare looked fixedly at the youth, It was evident that Clover was deeply moved for a few minutes at the words of the captain, but at last he said in a low, earnest tone: “Captain Dare, you have taken me by the hand and been most kind to me indeed. “You are all I have to care for me, unless if be my poor mother so far away, and I would do all in my power to gain your regard, 5 “‘But, Captain Dare, as dearly as I would love to return to my mother and sisters wearing the rank of a midshipman, won by my own acts ‘I would not do so if I had to betray the girl to whom I Yair oe my word that I would not betray her Lagoon Lair for one year, “She saved my life, and, bad as he is, she loves Lamonte, and I gave her my pledge not to betray him for the time cannot, will not.” The two had descended from the deck into the brilliantly lighted cabin, and, as the youth now sat opposite to Captain Dare the latter gazed fixedly at him, and his face grew harsh, his look stern. “ Boy fession, pirate?” The voice and manner of Dare had changed. Clover started at his words and turned pale, but did not flin¢h and frankly responded: “Yes, sir, I believe that you could have me hanged.” “« Then take the choice between hanging and betraying your pirate captain, Lamonte.” “Oh, Captain Dare!” “ Which shall it be, boy—you to pilot the Sea Soldier to the lair of the Red Flag Rover or hang from the yard-arm?” and Captain Dare half rose from his seat, menacingly. “Twill keep my pledge to Felice the pirate’s daughter, if you hang me to the yard-arm, Cap- tain Dare,” was the boy sailor’s firm response. “6 Vet you joined the pirates to save your life, yes, became a smuggler, ay, and a wrecker, set- ting false beacons to lure ships to wreck, their crews to death,” sternly said Cecil Dare. ‘Captain Dare, 1 wasnot asmuggler, but held asa prisoner on an island with smugglers and made to work for them. : ‘Tt was nota wrecker, for never did a vessel go to wreck through false beacon lighted by me, I always shielded the light, and would go before dawn to take down the cover, and bad I been or by the wreckers I would have been killed. ; ‘*T became one of a pirate crew to save my life, but never blow aid I strike, nor did I take the gold won by the capture of prizes. «Now you ask me to betray the poor girl who saved my life, by breaking my pledge to her, and I say that I will hang first,” *¢ When will the year be up?” *« Within tbree months, sir,” Captain Dare arose from his seat and crossing over to the lad grasped his hand, while he said in a voice that trembled with emotion: ‘My brave young friend, never did I in all my life meet a novler-hearved lad than you, and it will be a sad d«y to me if I forfeit your friend- do you know that upon your own con- could hang youtothe yard-arm as a Shin (oo a. I believed that you would yield to the tenip- tation to betray the Lagoon Pirates, but now I know that you would have died at the yard-arm rather vban do 80. | ‘“T was only trying you,soforgive me. Stick to your refusal until you do your duty without breaking your pledge to Felice, the pretty pirate to whom you owe your life,” CHAPTER XXXVI, |. THE SECRET OF A TREASURE. Ciover was delighted at the change in the manner of Captain Dare, for he had believed bis assumed stern bearing and words to be in dead earnest, i r pa He now felt that the captain understood bim thoroughly, and also admired bim for what he had done. ‘Anxious to prove Cecil Dare had doxe thoughtful way: — “Captain Dare, I have something to tell ou,” st , me Yes, Clover.” 3 . ‘Please tell me again just how you came to reeche Bente Mi inter mig peo monte,” “T will do so » returned D feoling pie that the youth bad Rh pak this appreciation of what for him, he said in a motive for the wish expressed, and which he was willing to gratify. ARP R Seer -So he told the story of his putting into the la- goo sr repairs, and discovering the chase of the tof Don Ramon by the Red Rover of the Lagoons, and what followed, + Someh Ww Ls dthat I had ‘seen him - befor aoe as he Bg % I believed, mortally Ie w d i had him ne to bis cabin, ‘and then I, too, fell from faintness, having received three wounds and bled fife euugh i L ao e was ugh in Lamonte ei , ng Garey a man on the v believed a epnetienrieceepemeypvige aidhncgieraenatnaainipt ni alin reeinenciing: | had nothing to do and = = The Red Flag Rover. but he was cleverly playing possum, as we say in the States, and was but slightly wounded. He slipped out at the stern ports and escaped in the darkness, “Many more of hismen had leaped overboard, and were swimming shoreward. The pirate chief picked up enough of them to board Don Ramon’s yacht, a quarter of a mile distant and escape, for the devil got him up a breeze just then which did not reach’ us for some time after.” ** Ha is a superb swimmer, slr, and if was just like him to turn defeat into victory by going to the yacht and seizing her. “ But, you held his vessel?” “ Yes, ‘* And where did you take her?” “She was in bad condition, but_my first stated, and, sir, J | officer carried the Don and Senorita Ravera on | to their home in it, while the Don’s lugger was dispatched to the lagoon after my vessel, ‘““T was rather seriously wounded, so remained at the hacienda until able to be up again, and meanwhile had sent the prize, the pirate craft, to New Orleans under an officer and,crew, ‘* When I sailed in my schooner I picked the prize crew up off the Balize and Lieutenant Orville told me that he had arrived in New Orleans with the frigate goleta in wretched con- dition and had placed her in the hands of agents to be sold, according to my orders from my Government if a prize is not worth being made into a vessel-of-war.” “Did he name any price, sir?” “No, but said for what she would bring, which was nota great deal at the best, say five thousand dollars, ‘* Was there much plunder on board, sir?” ‘No, for he had just come from his lair, and made no captures since,” ‘¢ And the prisouers?” ‘““Were left on board until she was sold and then théy were to be sent to the earcel to be held until orders came for their tria).” ++ Pardon me, Captain Dare, but how long has the goleta been at New Orleans on sale?” “Two months, or more, for Orville did not take her there until l was nearly able to take eommand of my schooner again,” **Do you think she is sold, sir?” “T fear not.” ‘© And I hope not, sir.” “Bat why?” “That is a very valuable vessel, Captain Dare.” - “ Nonsense, Clover.” ‘“ T mean it, sir.” ‘She could be made so by repairs, and is a ood craft for speed; but, she needs overhauling rom keel to truck.” ‘* I might as well at once tell you, sir, that she has a most valuable treasure on board.” “‘ No, for as I said, she had very little booty, and really nothing of value.” ‘‘ Captain Dare, there is a secret receptacle on the goleta in which Lamonte has hidden away the richest treasures he has taken and Chief Chevallo before him.” “ Do you mean this, Clover?” “TJ do, sir, and only the maiden Felice, be- —_ Lamonte, knows how to find’ the secret Ox, r ‘“* Of course he had no chance to remove the treasure, 30 it is upon the vessel now, and I would not be surprised if Lamonte discovered where you sent the vessel and would go and cut her out, or buy ber.” “* You are right, and upon the strength of what you tell me I will at once sail for New Orleans and we must find the treasure-box.” “T can do it, sir, for I was shown a model of the vessel one day by Felice, for her father made it and had it built, and not a man who bad aught to do with the building was allowed to sail in her. ' “ Belice told me of the secret hiding-place, put did not_say where it was, but in looking at the model I diseovered it, fam sure, so could find it, if I could not discover the spring that opens it.” — ‘ Well, Clover, to New Orleans we go at once, ani I hope we will arrive in time to save the treasure, which must be considerable from what you say.” ra : “TI Enow, sir, that Felice said that all of ber father’s wealth was there in precious stones, gold and jewelry, and Lamonte has doubtless added to the amount.” “* Phen it is ho for the treasure craft, Clover,” said Captain Dare, and he went on deck and gave orders to lay the course directly for the mouth of the Mississippi and to press on all sail possible, ——— OHAPTER XXXVIIL. THE SEA ARROW’S RETURN, ‘Tr was a lazy, listless life led by those at the ‘| retreat in the lagoon, known as the Lair of the enjoyed it, because eka Rovers. ‘ Many of thosé there lenty to eat and time to po with a sbare of pirate treasure in the bar- Bove : ‘in. ‘ They were a wild lot, men, women and chil v : ‘was let fall and the next yma) all dren alike, desperate characters most of them, spinon eects imental nia lic aa 19 The men were all outlaws, red-handed sons of the sea who would kill to get gold. The retreat bas been described, and yet not the home where dwelt the sad-faced mother and daughter of the former chief, Chevalio the Corsair. ‘ Hard as were the men, reckless as were all in that band, they owed a perfect allegiance to the wife of their old chief and ber daughter. Felice was: known to all as ‘‘ Our Queen,” and her every word was implicitly obeyed, her request was law. f her past she knew but little. Sle was born upon the sea, had played about the decks when a mere baby, and as she grew toward womanhood ber mother, who often went to'sea with her father, had taken ber to New Orleans in the lugger in which the booty was taken twice a year to be sold. Asa coaster captain no cne knew the famous rover, and he and bis wife bad placed their daughter in a boarding-school, among the chil- dren of rich and fashionable parents, to receive her education. They could rely upon her discretion, and she never betrayed that the dark-faced, handsome man who visited ber twicd each year as her father; was Chevallo the Buccaneer whose name was a terror upon the sea, : All'she kuew of her mother’s life was that she had loved her father and married ‘him in spite of all opposition, Sho knew that he was the victim of a cruel wrong which kad turned his heart to bitteruess and his hand to crime. She did not excuse this act of his, but clung to him through ail. ’ This Felice knew of her mother’s life, and also that her father bad left them a fortune, gained by piracy though it was, And this fortune Lamonte bad in bis posses- sion, or at least the bulk of it, and was she not to become his wife? She had become infatuated with the young buccaneer lieutenant, and he had pledged ber dying father in turn to give up piracy, make her bis wife and carry her motber and herself faraway where they could dwell with no shadow upon theni except what was in their hearts. Felice had been four years at boarding- school, and she had returned to her old private life, to feel how fearful a one it was for her father, her mother and herself to lead. At first she was wretchedly unhappy, and then Lamonte crossed her path, and love made her content, at least with her surroundings. So matters stood when the lad, Clover, had come to the retreat, aud she had been drawn strangely toward the handsome lad, and they became devoted friends. Clover’s quick intel:igence took in the situa- tion of the mother and her daughter, and he felt assured that Lamonte only wished to be sure that he could not get possession of the treasure which he believed Senora Chevallo held back, to cast off the mother and daughter and rob them of what be himself had in keeping for them, At last Felice began to feel that her lover did not act honestly with ber, and his having kid- napped Rachel Ravera more than ever con- vineed her that he was playing some bold game, perbaps one to be false to her, } This aroused ajl the jealousy in ber naturally jealous nature, and she determined to know a about it when he again put in to the stronghold, The home of the mother and daughter was a pleasant one, not such by any mieans as one would expect there among the Ingcons. There was modern furniture in the commo- dious cabin, and many articles from many lands, ‘taken from vessels coming from ail parts of the world. A handsome negress served as maid and cook, and all about the little house was cleenly and inviting. The scene was @ grand though weird one, overlooking the lake, with lagoons stretching away from it in several different directions, ; The lake was a pleasant place to sai}, and the lagoons, ridge and banks were covered with wild flowers. 7 The ridge ran back inland for miles, bordered on either side by lagoons, and & path led to the further end, which was often traversed by the mother and daughter in their rambles. Such was the home of the pirate’s wife and daughter, and back to the stronghold came the yacht one pleasant afternoon some months after her sailing under the red flag with its golden arrow in it, . oe Seated upon the broad piazza of their cabin the mother and daughter were talking together when the measured sound of oars f-il upon their ears and soon there emerged from the lagoon | an eight-oared boat, having in tow the captured yacht, “Tt is the Sea Arrow! _ The sails were farled aud the yacht was t aes to an anchorage undér the cliff wh ere | pie hor Xo Sars en . Sol? sige bil Fe Sea? 6c te ey he aE 2a Miah pee a aes Teak
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20 The Red Flag Rover. SS SS 8S SS Eee SSS rosy yaa into the barge, which came alongside and was rowed sboreward. “It is Captain Lamonte, mother, and I am so glad,” cried Felice, and she hastened to improve her personal appearance to greet her lover, who a after came at a brisk step toward the cabin. : CHAPTER XXXI1X. A LOVERS’ QUARREL, One glance into the face of the young pirate chief was sufficient to show to Felice that he was not in a pleasant humor, He caine forward and greeted her mother and herself abruptly, and almost immediately said: ‘‘T have found out what has been done with the goleta,” Yes?’ said Mrs. Chevallo coldly, not at all liking the manner of Lamonte. She did not like the man and never had; but had yielded to Felice in her wish to marry him, like one who had no aim in life and accepted all things as a matte of course. If she could only make Felice see the man as she did she would be glad, and if they could go away together, with what money they had, then perhaps one glesm of happiness might at last come to her clouded life, “Tsay that I know what has become of my goleta,” angrily repeated the pirate. ‘“Why do you care for the goleta when she was in such a wretched condition and you have that splendid yacbt in her place?” asked Mrs, Chevallo, “You seem to forget that my treasure is on board?” ‘* Ah, yes, the treasure my husband left in the secret receptacle upon the schooner? “So it is,” quietly said the woman. “Yes, the treasure which your husband left, and which I added to; it is all there.” *¢ Aud therefore lost.” “No, for no one knows the secret, and it could never be found unless they broke the goleta up.” ‘But where is the goleta?” asked Mrs, Che- vallo. ‘*In New Orleans.” ‘*¢ Then of course the treasure is lost to us,” “, you don’t know me, woman, if you think he face of the pirate’s wife flushed, but Felice at once spoke up and ia atone that showed she was very avgry: “Captain Lamonte, in addressing my mother you will show her the proper respect, or you shall not remain chief of the Lagoon Rovers.” ‘Ha! what does this mean?” he cried almost savagely. ‘Tt means just what I said, that you shall ad- dress my mother, yes, and myself with respect.” ‘* Well, this is rich indeed, to be dictated to by you, when J command,” “See here, sir, you were left in command by my father, and you were left his treasure, my mother and myself to care for; but you must re- member that you are not to rule us, nor shall you.” - Madam Chevallo said nothing, and at heart she was glad toseo Felice turn upon the man who had before treated them with almost con- tempt. ‘Mutiny, as I live, and by a girl. “*T will have to puta rough check on you, Felice, if you do not curb your tongue.” ““T defy you, sir, to make the attempt.” * Hal you defy me?” ‘* Yes.’ : “*T will show you that I rule here, girl!” ‘One minute, before you do aught that you will regret for if you dare tosummon the people it will be you, as captain, against me as queen, and Foe good sense should convince you that the Rovers of the Lagoon are pledged unto death to their late chief’s wife and daughter.” The man flinched at this. He knew that it was just as Felice had said, but he remarked with a sneer: “So you have been sowing the seeds of mutiny in the band since I left?” Call teed own crew, from the Sea Arrow, for they have been with you, aad consequently could not bave beeu under my mutivous spirit, “Let them decide whether, if it comes to a contest, you or I rule here, Captain Lamonte?” The pirate knew that he dared not put it to the test, for he would lose. That he was popular with his men, a good commander and the acknowledged chief of the Rovers of the Lagoons, he knew; but when it came to which they would give up, bimself or Felice Chevallo, their queen, be well knew that at ber bidding they would hang bim to the yard- arm. He saw that he had gone too far, that his anger had caused hiin to forget himself and that now he must eat ** humble pie.” But he mentally determined that, he should ' eventually rule the band, and that so dangerous .~a& womau as Felice should be gotten rid of, “SA superstitious feeling held the hearts and of the band to Felice, and should they dis- ,, her command then they would have only ill-fortune, they believed. So the pirate captain yielded quickly and cefully, : ae My Bias Felice, I was too hasty, aud I should not have shown my temper toward your mother, and then to you. ‘But [ was worried, angry, and I crave par- don for it,” At once the face of Felice, which bad become stern and defiant, changed to smiles, and she re- plied pleasantly: ‘“‘Don’t cause me to speak in anger to you again, Lamonte, for there should be no quarrel between us. ‘‘ Now tell us what has worried you, and about the goleta.?” Madam Chevallo was sorry to see the ‘* make- up,” but said nothing, and Captain Lamonte, big whole manner now chavgéd, threw himself into a chair and said: ‘““You know that the treasure is in the secret receptacle in the goleta, and that we must not lose it, so I have been trying to find out where that American captain sent the vessel, and only was successful in doing so a few days ago, for a prisoner told mé that my vessel was in New Orleans, and in the hands of an agent to be sold. **T had hoped to recapture that Mexican heiress, Don Ravera’s daughter, for I can get a clear quarter of a million ransom for her, and that, with the treasure on the goleta, would enable us to give up piracy, and go to some place to live ia luxurv and bappiness; but the Don, I find, has fortified the pass into his har- bor, and so I dare not boldly run in, and must await my return from New Orleans before I kidnap the Senorita Ravera.” ‘‘Captain Lamonte, you shall not kidnap the Senorita Ravera,” firmly said Felice, and her face became stern again and defiant, CHAPTER XL. THE BUGLE-CALL. AGAIN did the face of Lamonte flush with anger at the words of Felice. Was he to be governed in this way by a girl? He knew that he did, not cure for the pirate’s daughter, beautiful, intelligent and refined though she was, for his fickle nature had changed since seeing Rachel Ravera. He was determined to capture her,'and his vanity was such that he believed he could win her over into becoming his wife. He had always been admired by women, and he suppdésed that he was irresistible. So he had determined to kidnap Rachel again, then go to New Orleans and get the treasure from the goleta, after which he would leave the band, the pirate’s wife and daughter, and go his way alone. : He did not doubt but that in time he could get rid of Don Ramon in some sinister way, when Rachel would be the heiress to all that vast fortune, which would accordingly pass into his hands. Such was his plot, and he had stood in by night to boldly kidnap the maiden, but going in a stnall boat to reconnoiter, he had discovered that the pass was fortified. Supposing that there were Mexican artillery- men stationed there, he at once retreated, deter- mined to accomplish by strategy what he could not. do by force, This put him in an ill humor, especially as he had made no valuable captures of late, and that ill humor he had vented upon Madam Chevallo and Rachel until the latter resented it, as has been seen. Then deciding to go first to New Orleans, he had made known his intention of kidnapping Senorita Kavera, He had, frorn his various prizes, gotten a full battery for his vessel, and also a crew of ninety men, so that he felt in a degree invincible if he could only keep out of the way of large cruisers, for small ones he did not fear. His overwhelming conceit was getting the bet- ter of his judgment, and he sailed the seas under his blood-red flag as though he held a commis- sion in his pocket from the most powerful goy- ernment upon the earth, Now, when he made known his plan, Felice put her little foot down against it in a manner that showed she meant to be obeyed. ~ As though to support her daughter, Madam Chevallo said: ‘Yes, Captain Lamonte, I happen to know that the treasure on board of the goleta, if not yet found, amounts to a very large fortune. * Then you are in possession of more booty and I have a certain sum here in jewels, all of which are sufficient to enable us to carry out my dead husband’s wishes and give up our lawless career, going where, unknown to all, we can atone for the past. Be or these conditions, and that you were to make Felice your wife, when she reached her eighteenth year, he made you his heir as chief of the Lagoon Rovers, ‘“Now you refer to kidnapping a young lady and holding her for ransom,” Lamonte listened impatiently to Madam Chevallo’s words, and now responded: ** Aschief of this band a the protector of yourself an ughter, senora, my duty is to seek goer ests, and in kidnapping a girl, who is worth a quarter of a million to me, I feel that I am doing so.” ** But we have more than enough without that % ransom, if you get what the goleta has on board,” urged Madam Chevallo. “‘ Well, I differ with you and I shall make the capture.’ ‘Captain Lamonte, I say that you shall not,” and it was Felice who spoke now, “Tsay that you shall not deeoy an innocent girl to this place of infamy, to hold her torob ber father, through his affection for his child, of his large fortune.” «*T shall do as I deem best where the interests of the band are concerned,” was the sullen reply of the pirate, “Very well, as before, I shall put it to the test, for I shall command disobedience to your orders by your crew, in this case.” ‘Not a man would dare mutiny against me.” “Do you think so?” **T know it.” Felice stepped into the cabin and in a mo- ment returned with a small silver bugle, on which she blew a thrilling call. Too late did Lamonte spring toward her to prevent it, for never having heard her secret call to the people before, he did not know what she was doing until suddenly it dawned upon him, ‘* By heaven! you have dared call the people,” he said through bis shut teeth, “ See 77 As she spoke the men from their quarters were seen coming at a double-quick toward the queen’s cabir. and two boats crowded with men at once put off from the pirate vessel, ‘'Now, Captain Lamonte, if you wish to test your power against mine, order back to their ship your own crew, and those people coming from the camps,” said Felice with a sneer. “‘By heaven! I will,” cried the pirate. “I will not be defied by a girl!” Then raising his voice he called out: ** Ho those boats!” ** Ay, ay, sir!” “Return to your vessel until further orders!” ** Not until the queer’s bugle sounds the recill, senor,” came the response from an officer in the leading boat, and Lamonte saw that the people from the camps were still coming on, regardless of his command to go back. CHAPTER XLI. THE HUNT FOR THE TREASURE, Frricre was perfectly cool. She showed no sign that it was to bea test of power between herself and the pirate chief, over the desperate band coming at her call. As the people drew nearer she said caimly: “T leave it for you to test them, Captain Lamonte. But the pirate captain already considered him- self beaten. The reply from the officer of the boat from his own vessel proved that he must yield. So be decided to get out of a bad scrape grace- fully, and with a smile on his face but curses jin his heart said: ‘ ‘¢- You bave again triumphed, Felice. ‘*No better bride could a pirate chief wish than you.” Then he turned tothe people and said: \ “You are called for a purpose you shall soon know.” Felice and her mother looked surprised. What was the pirate going to do? Soon the boats’ crews arrived, and raising his voice, as they all gathered around the head- quarters cabin, Lamonte said: ‘* My people, your queen called for you, and I desire to say that when the goleta was cap- tured she took with her the treasure belonging to your former chief and to you all, and it is hidden in a secret place on the vessel, “Taken asa prize the goleta was sent by her captor, an American officer, to New Orleans, and thither it is my intention to go and get her, ‘Tt is said that she has been put up for sale, and as it will be no easy task to cut a vessel out from an American port, I shall buy her, and I desire you all tomake a contribution from the funds you have on band for that purpose, as the Sea Arrow’s treasury is at low ebb just now in money, though we have plenty of booty, “Tf { cut out the goleta your anes? will not be needed, but. if L hase her, what you get ‘will be a thousand per cent, \ wy “«T will head the ‘ee for Senora Che- the cleverness of the pirate captain in extricat- ing himself from what appeared to bs a very awkward situation, and she only ho that the position in which he had been placed and had to twice recede from would change the opinion of her daughter regarding bim. ’ If she could only open the eyes of Felice to the true nature of the man she was infatuated with, she would be reall happy. Chief Chevyallo had been a pirate, it was true,
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a | | (ii nn but then outside of his lawless career there was much that was noble iv his character. He had clung to her as strongly as sbe had to him, and his people had idolized him, one and all. With Lamonte it was different, for self was the one the young pirate looked out for all the time. His nature was despicable, his actions smail, and all that he had to recommend him was his handsome face and form, added to his undoubted skill as a sailor, and courage. Of nerve he had a sufficient eager to have made him a great captain had he been a good man. The people came up s20n with their mites to the fund of purcbase-money for the goleta, and the crew bade the captain call upon them when he returned on board the ship. Then they all dis ersed and the mother aid daughter were left alone with Lamonte. If they expected to see a look of shame upon his face for his defeat by a young girl, pirate captain though he was, they were disup- pointed. He sat smiling blankly at the situation and said complacently: “ You see, Felice, that the people, one and all, have money when they think they can get money by giving it up. “Now under no other plea could I have gotten them to contribute, and if I donot get the goleta out, they must pay their share, “But if I see half a chance I'll take her and save the contribution.” ‘¢ When do you leave?” asked Felice coldly. ‘¢ To-morrow, for I wish to reach there before she is sold.” ‘Should she be sold?” «Then I shall have to find out who purchased her avd where she has gone.” ‘‘ And will follow her?” “Of course, for that is a fortune which the goleta has hidden away on board,” “Very well, but should Paes fail to find the goleta, and consequently lose the treasure, re- member you are not to kidnap the Senorita Ravyera.” r ‘Perhaps you may be persuaded into allowing her capture, Felice? ‘Never! gold you may get under the flag you carry, but the moment you make war upon a woman to get it, that moment I will prove that my power in this band is greater than yours, ‘You know now how f feel, and my mother shares my views, so let the matter drop.” “Certainly, if you desire, Felice,” and the re- sponse came with a smile, but the look of Satan shone in his eyes. The next day the Sea Arrow hoisted her red flag and sailed on her hunt for the treasure, CHAPTER XLII. THE MEXICAN SPY. Apter the sailing of the Mexican brig-of-war Relentiess, under her gallant commander, Cap- tain Almo Urbana, the Government and the peo- ple looked for wonders to be performed by the merous, in spite of the many crnisers of dif- ferent nationalities on the watch for them con- stantly. Prova them the shipping of Mexico, especially the coasting vesse ered greatly, and Cap- tain Urbana had been the very man, the Junta thought, to send after these lawless rovers, Banker Luis Escalon and Henrico Valverde were more anxious to have the Relentless hunt down rich irates than the other enemies of Mexico, foe OT had an eye upon the treasure to be thus d : They te invested their money in the brig more for this Palvonds than any other, never thinking that alverde being a robber ashore, and Escalon the receiver of stolen it was a case of dog eat dog for the Relentless to wage + sea rovers. ‘ we ee Urbana neither of his backer: a b ; a as an able commander, and was ; Ravi make their money pay a larger ‘per- OW tat rse he took to do so they little cared. Cunning a3 they were they never thought for an instant that the captain might overreach them, The Red Flag Rover. So it was with considerable excitement that one day Valverde returned from his usual monthly trip to the mountains—‘‘ his mines,” as be put it, and sought the home of Banker Luis Escalon, He was accompanied by a villainous-looking vaquero, whom he had brought with him from his mountain retreat. Escalon had them ushered at once into his private room, where he sat enjoying his after- dinner cigar and an extra bottle of wine. He had just disposed of a large amount of Valverde’s plunder, along with the booty sent him by a coast smuggler, and the pirates had been most liberal, so that he was in love with himself so to speak. ‘‘ Ah, Sonor Valverde, I am delighted to see you— Oh! you have a—friend with you,” and he hesitated before he uttered the word friend after gettinga glimpse of the face of the man with Valverde. “Yes, I am just back from the mountains, af- tera stay of two weeks, and Madras here has some news which I wish you to hear.” ‘Certainly, seuor, I will be glad to listen to anything you have to say.” “Tam the captain’s spy, senor, and he sent me coastward to find out if the haciendas that way were worth raiding. ‘T came to one more like a palace than a ran- chero’s home, and with a fort guarding it from attack by water. ‘The ranchero had a force of half a hundred vaqueros looking after his vast herds of cattle and horses, and two-score servants, “T pretended to be looking for work and it was given to me. “The ranchero was Don Ramon Ravera, aud his daughter, a most beautiful girl, dwells with him. “The hacienda is full of silver plate and riches, the senorita having jewels worth a for- tune. ‘‘} saw there too in the harbor a brig-of-war fiying the eagle and serpent flag. ‘‘ Her captain was Senor Almo Urbana, and he had been at anchor in the harbor for two weeks. ‘Tt was said that he was in love with the senorita, and hoped to marry her, and the peo- ple said he meant to remain there util she con- sented to become his wife, for she is in love with soine one, an American sailor it was said. “As tapping the hacienda of Don Ramon Ravera would bring a fortune, I gave up my place on the plea of illness, which I f , and returned to report to Captain Valverde.’ “Well, Escalon, you have heard Madras’s story?” ‘Yes, Valverde.” ‘Tt is my desire to send him back to the hacienda.” “Why?” “ With a letter for Captain Urbana for one reason, and another to glean more news if he can so as to lead a band upon the hacienda some night and get the riches there.” ‘Not a bad idea, indeed; but the letter to Urbana?” ; ‘“ Must ask him why he lies idly at anchor in the harbor of Don Ramon, when he should be at sea looking to our interests, ‘‘ He has been gone nearly a month now, and I supposed had wor us rich prizes, when here he is utterly idle making love to a girl who certainly will not marry him if she can help 77,7 ““Tpen let us write him a letter conjointly, send it by Madras, and it will show bim that we have our eyes upon his movements when and where he little dreams of it.” “The very thing.” The letter was accordingly written, and after a substantial meal in Escalon’s home and a couple of golden onzas, Madras was dispatched to the hacienda of Don Ramon, with orders to ride with all baste, and then to remain there as a spy, while he must take a man with him from the band, or make some arrangements with a coaster, to send word to Vera Cruz at least twice o month of what was going on there. CHAPTER XLIIL CAPTAIN URBANA’S RUSE. Caprain AtMO URBANA was tly disap inted at not seeing Rachel at er, he day of his arrival at the hacienda, He feared that he had been too abrupt in his manner of showing her what the American was, according to his manner of stating the case, He was sure now that she loved Cecil Dare e at the thought, for in his way be loved her and did not wish her nt Cecil Dare in the very worst colors possible, and yet appear to do so innocently, as th est which she held in him, or really knew htm, Then he seemed ing the true state of Te main the guest of the Don night, in spite of his urging, but returned on ship with his two offieers. The next morning Rachel received a note from him which ran in this wise: so much alike as not to be one and the same. 21 “ On BOARD MEXICAN Bric-oF- WAR, ELENTLESS. “ My RESPECTED SENORITA RAVERA;— “Jam more distressed than you can imagine, at what now to me appears as my cruel words to you of yesterday. “ Wholly unaware of your even holding the ac- quaintance cf the American officer, and feeling a natural bitterness in my heart against one who has left his mark upon me for life, I spoke perhaps too strongly in the charg-s I made against him. “Had I dreamed the truth, I would never have mei oe anchor in the Hacienda Harbor. 3ut having dons so, and made my story known to you, as I kuew it all, and finding that I had woundad to the quick one whom I would die to save from ons pang of sorrow or pain, I sought to have my officers 823 you that perhaps they might differ with her, thus giving you a straw of hope to cling to. “ The result of their coming your good father has doubtless made known to ycu, and I can only hold out to you one ray of hope to cling to until you know the real truth. ‘* This hops is that pone there may be /wo0 mén, o know them apart, claimin to “ Perhaps that the true man who rescued you may have a twin brother, or a double, who from sume fealing of revenge may be dogging him about the as, and the false man may be the one whom I met in Vera Cruz. “This seems like a romancing proposition, yet stranger things have occurred, and It have known of met, and women, too, who have had doubles who gave them no end of trouble, caused them untold sorrow. “With this hope Iam willing to at once put to sea to solve the mystery for you. “Tam, or will be at your wish, my own master to serve you, and will cruise till I can find the one, or both, if two there be, of these Americans. “ How glad will I be if I prove my theory a correct one and give happiness to you, and to him, whatever the pain may be to me to see another claim you. “Still, only true love can be unselfish, and such is the feeling I have for you. “Pardon me, but I will not again offend, and you may regard me as you would a lovin brother. ‘Heaven hold you in keeping, and believe me Your devoted servant, ‘** Arwo URBANA.” This letter was handed to Rachel by her -maid when she arose the next morning, after a — night. Bhe read it carefully through twice, and re- called that the writer had once been her de- voted lover, while the hope that he held out was something she could cling to as a drowning man clutches at a straw. She then murmured: “ Noble man! be shall indeed be like a brother to me, and I will drown my own grief and be as cheerful as I can. “Still I cannot believe Cecil Dare guilty as accused, anti he has, he must have a double !” Witt this she descended to the breakfast- room, where her father awaited her, and handed to him Captain Urbana’s letter. He read it slowly, aloud, and said fervently: “Heaven grant ‘it be as he says, my child; but it is in Urbana to offer to hunt the seas to discover the truth for you.” ‘f Noble, indeed, father, and I would not have him go, wait here in his vessel, for you Dare was to return here before “And if he is the true man I believe him, it will then be known, while if he bas a double, it will be his duty to huvt him down.” “ You are right, Rachel, my cbild.” ‘Then urge Captain Urbana to come ashore and become your guest, father, and let his ves- sel remain here in the harbor. “And should Dare return and Urbana at- tempt to capture him?” “Then I will be the first one, if he is proven guilty, to say to Captain Urbana to do his uty. ¥. ‘You are a noble girl, Racbel, and it shall be as you say. “T will go aboard after breakfast, and have Urbana return as my guest.” “ And pray, say that I urge it, father, for his noble letter has touched me deeply.” “* T will do so, Rachel.” And the Don went on board the Relentless after breakfast, to return before noon accom- panied by Captain Urbana, who was smiling with joy at his triumph. ‘Twill win her yet,” he muttered to bimseif as he was shown into the beautiful room which was to be his while he remained Don Ramon’s guest. CHAPTER XLIV. THE DEFIANCE. THE cunning letter written by Captain Almo Urbana made him a most welcome guest at the Ravera Hacienda, and Rachel vied with her father in kind hospitality. His offer to go at once in search of the Sea scover if her co er was and really Captain Cecil Dare, or his double, was de- clined thanks by the maiden, for after a consultation with her father it was decided that the best chance for Captain Almo Urbana to Gnd the true man was to remain at the ha- ber If it was lover, Cecil Dare, he would re- turn to her as he had promised to do, and then < ee ee ee “+
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7 ees ae The Red Flag Rover. the truth could be discovered, for of course he would be glad to aid in the running down of a man who was pretending to be none other than himself, such a man as the Mexican commander of the brig Relentless claimed to have discov- ered in the American officer who had come to Vera Cruz and behaved so shamefully, not to | speak of cowardice. ’ Captain Urbana was very glad of this ar- | rangement for two reasons. One was because it would keep him near | Rachel Rayera, living an idle life of luxury at | the hacienda, with prospects of stepping into | the place of the absent American, and the other | was the hope that the Sea Soldier would return, | He knew that his brig was heavier by far than | the schooner and carried six more guns, with at | least forty:more men, Then he would have the advantage of a sur- | prise, for when the schooner came in, not fear- ing danger, he would be all ready for action, the | cables could be'slipped and a fire poured upon | the schooner at close range that would cripple ber badly. Before she could get her men to quarters and | ready for action he would bear down upon her, | board, and not one of the crew should be left | alive to tell the story that a Mexican brig had sunk an American cruiser, and he would make | the claim that it was a buccaneer sailing under false colors, Such was the bold plot of the Mexican cap- tain, and if it did not go as he wished it would | not be his fault, Had the schooner been his equal, or near it, in size, guns avd men, he would not have remained in the Hacienda Harbor to await her coming, __ | He had already had an example of how Cecil Dare could handle bimself and he did not doubt | -but that he couid handle his vessel equally well, , and in such case he preferred to overweight the American by far. Going on board his vessel one day, as it was his wont to show himself to his officers and men daily, he found a man there awaiting his com- he man’s small sail-boat was alongside, and he claimed to have come in it from Vera Cruz. ** Who do you wish to see, my man?’ “Captain Almo Urbana, senor.” “From whence do you come?” ** Vera Cruz, senor.” “ Ah! and from whom?” ‘I think the letter will explain, senor.” Captain Urbana, took the letter and descended to his cabin. Breaking the seal he read it through carefull; after glancing at the heading and date, whic showed it to have been written in Vera Cruz some days before. The letter was as follows: “ Capramn ALMo URBANA, “ Commanding M-xican Cruiser Relentless:— ““Senor:—It having come to our knowledge that Ba sailed fram Vera Cruz directly to the hart or off on Ramon Ravera’s hacienda, and have spent three weeks, basking in the smiles of the fair Senorita Rachel, instead of being at sea cruising, we are constrained to inform you that your capturin of the brig a apon our favor toward you, an that you must off at work, or the investments made in the brig will be a losing one as long as you are in command, “Your venture at the hacienda may eventually brivg gold to your purse, but if certainly wi!l not aid us, and unless you at once put to sea we will see to it that your name is dropped from the Naval Roll of Honor, and you will be thereby forced to fight your way under a flag of our choosing. “Expecting you to sail at once, and make regula report to us, - CHAPTER XLV. BANKER ESCALON’S RESOLVE. Senor EscaLon was not a man to be trifled with and not resent it. He was a remarkably shrewd, deep villain, and his honorable and dearest friends would have been first to resent any stain upon his character. For the asking he could have borrowed any sum without the scratch of a pen in return, so great was the confidence of aJl in him. , His word was gilt edge, aud he was con- sidered'a model man, for his little play at the Casino now and then was looked upon by the padres as nothing more than innocent enjoy- ment, What he could do asa rich and honored man would be considered'a crime in one who was poor and friendless. : Senor Escalon gave liberally to the ehurch, his dinners to the padres were regularly timed, and his wines the very best. Therefore the banker was a pet in society, and the idol of the poor people, He would not rob a friend, but preferred to get his money from outsiders by any means he could, even if the knife had to fall. His association with Valverde was not re- | garded unfavorably, for it was rumored that the rich miner-gambler banked very heavily with Senor Escalon, who invested his moneys for him, The closest clerk which Escalon had in his employ did not know that bis employer was liv- ing a double Jife, and the business of the con- cern went on with honorable methods, and the only surprise was how the senor could make so much money outside of the office, for he was continually adding to his wealth by means which those in the establishmert could not un- derstand, But all was looked upon as legitimate trans- actions of course. But these outside earnings came from the booty of smugglers which he sold through a store which he owned secretly, and the revenue re- ceived from Valverde’s robberies, and which was all put into gold through another branch of business which the banker ran in a sub rosa way. Still another venture was the sending of Cap- tain Almo Urbana to sea in the brig. If that ofticer turned pirate he, Escalon, of courses had nothing to do with it any more than had Valverde, This venture the banker hoped would reap him a rich harvest, and be was careful to take ee of the stock, when Valverde had one- third, And right in this transaction the deep cun- ning of the banker was shown, for on all the money advanced to Captain Urbana on bis property, he had had it appraised by men in his eee ee employ, unknown to the officer, and just two- |) thirds of its marketable value was given. So when he gave the money to buy the bri he was really eg the captain’s own gold, while what Senor Valverde put in was just that much given for the banker. But though the brig had cost him nothing, and was at sea under. a captain who was bis slave, so to speak, he had no idea of losing any- me 2 by the transaction through its not being made, So he decided, after receiving the captain’s letter, and having a talk with Valverde, to go to the Ramon Hacienda himself and have a ta with Captain Urbana. never tel] just when to find a Mexican gentleman of the road. ** Of course the badge I give you will protect . you from my men, should any of them be down in the coast country, but there are other traik marauders than Henrico the Highwayman’s.” ** Doubtless,” returned Escalon, and when he had departed Valverde sent another messenger to say that the banker would go by vehicle, with three armed men and carry his badge of pro- tection, but it was not to protect him in that case, : The next day Senor Escalon started upon his trip to the Ravera Hacienda, CHAPTER XLVI. 4 GENTLEMAN OF THE BROAD, THe ’banker Escalon loved his comfort, and he traveled in style. Those who saw his handsome vehicle going along the road supposed it was the turnout of some very distinguished personage, end as a matter of fact it was, for Senor Escalon was a very widely known man. His carriage was a comfortable one, softly cushioned, and he could stretch himself at ease in it. He had his luncheon, coffee-pot to make coffee by the wayside, his wines and all to add to his comfort. Then he had an expert driver holding the reins over four splendid horses, By bis side sat a servant, acting as man-of-all- work, and jn tte vehicle upon the frontseat was the banker’s valet. Behind, in lead, trotted two saddle-horses, and the boot contained a pack-saddle and others so that in case of need they could all mount and away. There were a couple of rifles swinging in the carriage, fishing-rods, and the three servants were well armed, So it was that the banker went prepared against emergencies. The first night’s halt was made at a pleasant hacienda, and the ranchero warned Senor Esca- lon to beware of Henrico’s Highwaymen who — were abroad in the land, The next night’s halt was to camp, the banker sleeping in the carriage the three servants upon their serapes under it, with a camping-out sup- per and breakfast. But Senor Escalon rather enjoyed the novelty of the affair. : At noon the next day a halt was made, and the Ravera Hacienda would be reached by night. Ciokey Escalon was enjoying bis mid-day lunch, and his men were preparing theirs, while the horses, unbitched from the traveling car- riage, were staked out near, Suddenly, as though cut of the ground, on - four sides, approached eight men, * It was a case of two to one, with odds in favor — of a surprise, and those who appeared had their guns at a level upon the four, who were so inter- ested in edibles just then as to be caught nap- ping. ¢ Out of a thicket there rose aman on horse- back, dressed very gorgeously, but wearing a m : He held a pistol in bis hand, and said in a wie T aca the tall-getherer’of -thia tighway,end am the atherer of th: an would feel obliged if you will pete kindpess to hand over your fare.” Nothing could have been more polite, and. Senor Escalon was equally so, for he bowed and “We remain, ae He would say tothe Don that he was looking responded : ; jeg ** Your obedient servants, for a large purchase of cattle, as an excuse for “T havea badge of protection here from gath- — = “Escaton & Vatverde.” | his visit, and he would go by land on berse- | erers of toll,” he revealed a seal-ring which The captain smiled grimly to himself as he read the letter over for the second time. ** They taink to control me, dothey? ——. “+ Well, they are mistaken in the thought, as I will assure them. ei ‘ “They threaten to have me outlawed, and thus force me into piracy. “Pools! do they not know that they have laced in my hands the instrument to win for- ee and protect myself? : “T care notbing for them now, for I have the brig, the battery aud the crew, and if the Mexi- can Government does outlaw me, why I have the means of making them repent the act,.~ « “ Why, I would, if foreed to. hoist the biack flag, cause a wail to go up along this whole. “Mexican Coast, and then the beautiful Rachel would indeed find herself the bride of a pirate. ‘“‘ Now to answer this precious letter,” and he hastily wrote as.follows: _ tS eatin, ame _ “Sgnors:—As commander of the brig Relentless, I understand fully my Getten, ong Ween! to be ont- lawed by the Mexican Governmeut, neither of you gg: jo se share in my goodfortunes, = © o pale eg did all in his. ; “The best way 'e to let me conduct my affairs as | pleasant for ha pee le repeated his advice. ab best suits mys For will ph tin uae YOM. |‘about the trails to be taken, =§ == =———s—s | naan over most generously. Papi “But suppose I donot please todoso” “I¢ is a matter of utter indifference tome sezor, whether you hand over your money or I ; “s much that he gave him full directions as to-his | take it from your body after death, course to take, ‘avoiding all chance of meeting trail marauders, and then going to his own — atonce dispatched a messenger to his | yet the robber “It is for you to take your choice,” aE ri. This was a very decided way of see agen. Sa | ie d not lose pleasant, po utenant to beou the watch for the rich banker, | manner, and it struck Senor Escalon that he ” Senor Escalon; and clean him out of-every peso he had in-his ssion.*. = for he did; but be considered thes a littl of legitimate business upon his sure that the banker had often doubled on him @ piece ‘an armed escort of driver, footman and my ‘valet, for the roads are dangerous. ; £9 ouldeut a throat in the same gentlemanly way. — : way . Very wall, name your price,” he said angri- | It was not that Valverde did nat-Hie Escalon, | ly Me “You must be a mah of vast riches to part, as he was | trevel in such stwe,” Gy lhe | aS ‘That has nothing to do with the case.” vg your pardon, 'forT disco “Oh, yes it has, ‘© Well, senor, you will pardon me if I search — de d this letter Then I can carry our saddles and bridles | your carriage first, and then your — aa. : to the two men who had deemed thém- | along to change to horseback if need be.” after, which I will expect you. to ‘take your selves! masters of Alma Urbana, as hayig/ ‘A goodidea, and far safer Tassure you, for: turn.” at sites? SF, URGE RBROS isa ik ee Ae Cougs hiss body adsoal: pty ther Ns though I ‘anticipate no p i ‘© There is no need of a search, for I bhayvemy +f : ‘ ° ; As ‘ Ped a re : a ui . ¢ : : e> . ph Cabby 5 eril to you, one can
Page 23
Cen nn en ee tans saya money here with me, and it is a considerable sum, for I am going to buy cattle on the coast.” * Ah! then Iam happy in having made your acquaintance. About how much have you with you, senor?” ‘ ** Some thirty thousand pesos, and I will give . ai you one-third.’ ; ; “What is the matter with the other two- thirds, senor?” ““T need that fr myself.” “We are strangely alike in that particular, ; and as you are rich, I a poor gentleman of the ven road, 1 will just ask you to hand over your Bt. thirty thousand pesos.” a ‘You will ruin me!” ah ‘No, senor, you know where to get more, and traveling as you are I know that you havea 14 thousand in loose change for expenses, and that ¥ I will not take.” as ‘You are very kind,” sneered the banker, = “Don’t mention it, I beg of you, senor, for I am too modest to like to hear my praises sung. / Bs, ‘‘ Your money, please.” eS With a groan Senor Escalon drew out half a aes. dozen sealed envelopes, bearing a bank stamp, and the value of the bills within each one. He opened one and asked: ¢¢ an I not have half of this sum, senor?” “No, senor, nothing more than your change.” You will ruin me.” a “No, I hope not; but I thank you, senor, and iy the money is so nicely put up. oo. “T have the honor of saying good+day, senor,” ie and thrusting the packages in his pocket, he rode away, his men disappearing as silently as they had come. CHAPTER XLVII. DIAMOND CUT DIAMOND. ‘‘QuroK, Mendez, get your horses hitched up, Pa and put them on a pace tbat will take us far ae from here in a very short while,” “e This order fairly startled the three servants of “a Senor Escalon, two minutes after the gentleman am ofthe road and bis men had departed. The servants were surprised, but sprung to obe oo the command, wondering what their master’s ier «i haste could be after he bad been robbed of a ste { large fortune, for to them thirty thousand pesos was alco sum. Quickly the horses were harnessed, and the oe i vehicle rolled away upon its journey at a very ~ SSE rapid pace. . P Pome : The animals were surprised at having been a, urged so suddenly out of their traveling gait, . but the crack of the whip kept them going. ; oe After having been pressed for a couple of } ¥ hours, they came to the top of a long hill which ; commanded a stretch of five miles of the road behind them. Ro There Senor Escalon leaned out of the window ut, and glanced back. . Quickly he called out: “ “Trey are coming, Mendez, and we will all be murdered, | “Drive at full speed down the hil] and then > _.. ». bait, for we will take to tae saddle,” ; | Down the hill for a mile the vebicle rushed, a and then catae to a sudden halt on the bank of a _— sraa!l brook. Ss Senor Escalon sprung out and his own and Seen his valet’s horses were quickly saddled and bridled, msaniatiec “wo of the other horses were also quickly sad- = -sdied and bridled, and packs put upon the two — } remaining animals. ; ae ; a Into these packs were quickly strapped ghe e and traps taken’ from tbe carriage . esa had not taken fifteen minutes to accom~ me and all ei li 7 Se stream to water them. eo “ Now set the carriage on fire and we will be . = » OM? * } a tch was applied to the silk curtains . om The mate ! blazed up like tinder, | - and cushions, and they Then the party mounted and rode “into the brook to water their horses, Just as they started a party of a dozen horse- “men appeared upou the top of the hill three- narters of a mile away. + ) anertoe Jead was the gorgeously dressed gentle- ‘ tat Of the ‘road whe had been so polite in his eld - or Escalon, pie? He Whaat ch bas Br 7 Uh Rigs race for life,” cried the banker, he led ip the race. 4 BY ae they went ata swift, swee ing’ es : Me Why should they follow us, sener, when you / gave them a fortune! in aes ” Caramba! it wasmore thana in a lifetime,” said Suzol the valet, — a “Yt ig because I did not give them thirty thousand pesos, Suzol, that they seek my life.” “But, senor, you handed him the envelopes ef bank-notes, crisp and beautiful.” beh «3 Sl ae aD ; “Tt was bank-n te paper, a mMueyY pat ti opae ge an examination revested to é woul Ja have passed asced with an ignorant man, te Pp “Our horses have had a rest, and here is a” way tt E ee 5; ‘they soon had the satisfaction of seeing that" Be they were at least holding their own against’ rman earns d they were not worth a| be: ~ | The Red Suzol, but that gentleman of the road was no fool, and when he sat @own to see if the Bank of Mexico, in envelopes of which I had put the pretended notes, had made any mistake in its count, he saw that he had been fooled, ‘So he called together his fellow cut-throats, Suzol, and there they come, and it strikes me they are gainivg a trifle upon us.” “They are, senor, but it is because we were all listening to your story of how you got the better of the robbers.” “Yes, but this is our secret, my men, for I deceived the robbers, “Let the people think that Banker Escalon was really robbed of thirty thousand pesos, and does not mind the loss; but I told you to show you that we bave to make a hard run for it, Flag Rover. and perhaps a fight, so do not let them catch us, | 23 It was impossible for the banker to get a show to speak with Captain Urbana that night, but be asked to go on board the brig the next .day in a manner that could not be refused, and soon after } breakfast a boat was hailed and the two went ; out to the vessel. ‘* Be seated, please,” said Urbana, as the two entered the cabin of the Relentless. “Thanks, yes, and sit down yourself, for I wish a talk with you. BS ‘* And permit me to suggest it’ would be well hal to see that there are no eavesdroppers about,” Ajimo Urbana’s face flushed, and he saw that there was no one about, and then threw himself into a chair opposite the banker, with the look ey: of a-man who felt that there was an ordeal be- a fore him, “Well, captain, what does it mean, may I ask, rs that you are not on a cruise?” and Banker Esca- for they will hang you three certain, while they will keep me for ransom—do you see?” The three servants did see, and they showed their appreciation of the fact by making better speed at once, The result of this was that the robbers began to drop behind oace more, when in the last haif- hour they had gained perceptibly. So the chase went on until the horses were white with foam, and staggering with fatigue. But the pursuers’ animals were in even worse shape, and they bad lost nearly half a mile also. At last they gave up the chase, and Senor Escalon came to a slow pace with his men and went along for miles ata walk, Then a balt was made for rest, and when the start was made again they were teld by a vaquero they met that Hacienda Ravera was but a league distant. An hour before sunset they rode up to the wall of the hacienda and Don Ramon came to greet his visitor. ‘He kuew Senor Escalon well, and cordially welcomed him, and listened with interest to the story of his being held up on the road and the chase that followed, When left alone in his recom, which command- ed a view of the harbor, Senor Escalon glanced from his window and said aloud: “He is still here, for there lies his vessel at anchor. ‘I was wise to come,” CHAPTER XLVIII. THE FIRST CRUISE. Capraus ALMO URBANA was not at the hacienda when Senor Luis Escalon and his ser- vants arri 7 He was on board of his vessel, but had simply gone there as was his daily custom to have an eye upon his erew. But he was to return to dine at the bacienda, and when Senor Escalon descended to the library he found there Rachel and her father. The latter was standing by the cpen window: and remarked, as Senor Escalon came into the room: : ; ‘“ His boat is putting off now, Rachel.” Then the Don turned, greeted bis guest and presented his daughter, for she had never met Senor Escalon. She greeted him pleasantly asa friend of her father, and yet the keen eyes of Escalon saw that she looked like one who was not happy. “ Weare so fortunate as to have Captain Almo Urbana with us, Senor’Escalon, as our guest, his vessel being at anchor in my harbor, so you will meet an old friend, I believe.” “Yes, it will be a pleasant surprise, and ] was rejoiced to recognize the Relentless m your port,” returned Escalon. Zz Soon after Captain Urbana entered the room with the air of a may who felt perfectly at home. He started at sight of Escalon, half drew back and turned pale; but the banker. quickly cams to his relief by stepping forward awd grasping his hand, while he said: ES. ; you, i 4“ Yes, if ga we be same loot of haunting sadness which first. noticed clung to her beautiful face. ob} wt | 2G sh Ae ar ae e 7 = page Oe ee - What an unexpected pleasure 'this, meeting +. * Carambu!” came in a hiss from the lips of Re { the Mexican sailor. té ; =t Ca ae * Oh, I do not intend to make love to the, a senorita, though no man could do better. : ma | Don that a tgid bimoof several coast, 9 « rei* ~ tsa 24 ar 4 And the following morning Senor Escalon» | departed’ upon bis return to Vera Cruz, b ‘ee .. DOUBTED., lon’s manner was cool and confident, like one who beld winning cards and was waiting for the play of his adversary. “T can do better by remaining in port for the present,” a): “You think sof” ‘“T know so,” : aye. “In what respect?” ong ‘* Well, 1 am ina fair way to wed the Senorita ean: Ravera,” ‘Ah! and her American lover?” ‘*See here, Escalon, we are in this matter to sink or swim together, and you'should have let me manage my own affairs in my own way.” “ What have you at stake?” ua fortune.” | o get, yes. “weir? X ‘“‘T have one invested in this brig, and you hold command by my will alone.” “T wish to say to you that I came here to see A what my chances were with the Senorita Ra- s vera, and the result I will tell you.” He then made known how he had defamed Captain Cecil Dare, and that he was merely awaiting bis return to the port to wipe his vessel and erew out of existence, pretending to believe the craft a pirate. : as age listened attentively and then said: ; ‘““My dear Urbana, you have overshot the * 7 mark. i ‘The Saa Seldier is on a special duty in the ay Gulf, and her captain has been ordered to hunt oy down all pirates, and he has rendered splendid a service in that work. “To sink his v if yourcould do so, which I frankly admit I doubt, in spite of your strength, would involve our littl country in a war that would be ruinous, for it would soon be proven that the Sea Sqidier was no pirate. ‘You might get rid of a rival, it is true; but that would not be the end of it, and I therefore a say thet you must start upon your cruise at once, Hae wR eae Sag = =i ; pee pe ho pela 1 ; = BS a ne ies a ae ate he
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a B4 ee ee The Red Flag Rover. So said Don Ramon after the departure of Senor Escalon from the hacienda. “T shall not afflict my sorrow upon you, father; but my cheerful mood has been forced, I am compelled to admit, for my heart has been full of sadness,” ‘* You have cause, my poor child, if you have loved one who is so utterly unworthy of you as at present it seems that Captain Dare has proven himself,” ** He is not unworthy, father.” “Bui bow about Urbana’s report, and you also heard what Senor Escalon had to say about the scene in the Casino, and afterward the duel.” ** Yes, father.” ‘Escalon of course did not know that Dare was aught to you, or ke would not have spoken as he did.” ““Then you are convinced that Captain Dare is all that be has been painted, father?” ‘* How can I believe anything else in the face of facts?” ‘| cling to the idea that he has a double,” “Tt may beso, and that you met the honest man and they the villain. I only hcpe thut such is the case, my child.” “As I do, sir; but, father, what did Senor Escalon come here for?” ‘*‘ He was on a search for cattle.” ‘Did he purchase any?” ‘* A few hundred.” “Js it not strange that a man of his wealth should risk his life coming here to buy a few cattle?” ‘*T was surprised at it,” ‘* He has a vast banking business, too?” ** Yes,” ‘Did he pay you, father?” ** Oh, yes, my price, in gold.” *¢- Yet he told me he had been robbed of thirty thousand pesos on the way here, and been com- pelled to desert his carriage,” “Yes, that is so.” ** Father.” ** Well, Rachel.” et Pil tell you what Senor Escalon carse here for, wali ** He came to see Captain Urbana.” ** Nonsense, child,” 4 - am —_ it.” . o, my child, it was a perfect sarpriso them both to meet here.” gcpcerre ai” “EL BORE RE eS IE. ae I oes a aR = OX LR Ce RS a eee fain that the mysterious youth had something to do with the rapid run from Vera Cruz. Arriving at the shore the captain dismissed the boat with orders to the coxswain to be on hand at a certain hour in the morning, and then wend- + his way, with Clover, toward the Hotel St. uis, It was too late to call upon the agents, so af- ter a good supper, the two went to the theater, and enjoyed the evening, Captain Dare having discarded his uniform for a civilian’s suit to come ashore in, Bright and early the t'vo were at the office of the agents, with whom Lieutenant Orville had left the goleta for sale, and asking to see Mr. Newman, they were shown into that gentleman’s private office, ‘*Mr, Newman, I am Captain Cecil Dare of the United States schooner-of-war Sea Soldier.” ‘* Ab, Captain Dare, I am delighted to see you, sir, and yet I have no very pleasant news for you,” said Mr. Newman, and he motioned the visitors to seats. ‘“‘T have coms, sir, to ascerta'n if you have yet sold the goleta left inxo-~ hands by my lieutenant, Mr. Orville?” ‘* That is just the bad news. ave to tell you, sir, or at least bad for me, for [ of course will hand you the amount of the schooner’s value.” ‘‘Then you have solid her?” quickly asked Cecil Dare, Mr. Newman looked a trifle confused, and be- fore answering ring a bell on his desk. An office-boy appeared, and the agent said: ** Ask Mr, vill to write out, payable to Cap- tain Cecil Dare, 11.8. Navy, a check on my bunkers for five thuusvnd dollars and bring it to me, ‘*-Yes, sir,” and the boy disappeared, while Cecil Dare again said anxiously: ‘Then you have sold the goleta, sir?” ‘*T have and I haven’t, Captain Dare.” ‘*T do not understand your paradoxical words, Mr. Newman,” “One minute, sir, and I will explain— Ah! here is the check, so, Captain Dare, there is the value you placed <a the prize.” ‘*Then she is sold?” “Captain Dare, I did, as I believed, sell the goleta, toa gentleman who represented himself as a wealthy coast planter. ‘He gave me his draft on the bank here, and the next day when I sent it in for collection it was dishonored; and the goleta had set sail paps Mp night, but I stand the loss, sir, aud there is your check for the sum your lieutenant placed upon her.” ‘Keep your check, Mr. Newman, for it is the goleta I want, not the money,” was the startling response of Cecil Dare. CHAPTER LI. THE STRANGER, Tre unwelcome news told to Cecil, Dare by Mr. Newman caused him to spring to his feet in considerable excitement, and the agerit asked q igh ay ‘+ Was it not your wish to sell tha vessel, sir, for I had no other orders to the contrary?” “Pardon me, Mr. Newman, it was my wish and yet I ho to arrive here before you did sell the vessel, ‘The truth is that she is worth far more than at a glance appeats, as she bas a secret treasure closet on board which was not found by us wheu we captured her.” ‘‘ My dear sir, you amaze me, and I regret ex- ceedingly that such a loss bas occurred through me, ‘*You are not to blame in the matter, m dear sir, for you but obeyed your orders, and only regret that you accepted a check that was worthless, “My young friend here happened to be a prisoner to the pirate whose vessel the goleta was, and be discovered that Lamonte had this secret closet to which I refer, ; “As we knew nothing of it, and Lamonte escaped, we did not find the treasure and so he, no one else, was the bogus purchaser of the craft.” ‘““There can be no deubt of that, Captain Dare, when we know that his check was of no account, ‘*T will tell you, sir, all about it, and you can judge for yourself.” “Tis be glad to hear your story, Mr. ra but first tell me when the goleta ed “ Night before last, sir.” ‘* Hal so late as that was it?” “ Ke str,” os we reached here twelve hours sooner we would have headed him off.” “Yes, and Lonly w'th that you could have done re Captain Dare.” ** As J do, sir, but let me know all you have to oa and then I will go in the wake of the rate. ‘“And may youcatch him, for I would lose the five thousand dollars with pleasure to see ou hang. bim,” earnestly said the age “That will surely be bis fate if I do catch bim, Mr, Newman, “ He e here three d and was nsk ated into this office touwalt may poming.
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The Red Flag Rover. ‘A more courtly gentleman I never met, and | getting your stores,” said the agent, and he led his voice was so pleasantly toned that I enjoyed hearing him talk. ** He told me that hisname was Montefeno, and that he was a planter on the Alabama Coast, | not far from Mobile, and wished a vessel for pleasure and work both, asking me if I had such a craft, “T at once suggested the goleta, telling him that she had been a pirate under the Rover of the Lagoons, but he said that he was afraid ill fortune would befall him) if he took a vessel with such a crime-stained record. ‘So 1 spoke of others I had for sale, and we went to the river to see them. “* We had visited several of their anchorages, none of which suited him, when he spied the goleta at her anchorage. ‘Ah! there is a beautiful vessel, sir, and I only wish you had her on your list for sale, he said, with enthusiasm, “T told him that I had the craft on my list, and we were rowed aboard, ‘* He said she was in a wretched condition, for you know she needed repairs badly, and yet asked ber price. “T told bien, and he at once asked if a couple of thousand would rot put her in good trim? “J told him that twenty-five hundred, at furthest, would make her as good as new, and a beautiful vessel, and he told me that he would take her, and give me a check on his bankers for seven thousand five hundred, and that I was to put her in perfect trim for him, “Then it was that I told him that it was the irate craft, and the news seemed to stun him a ittle, “But he went over the craft again, sounded the timbers, and said that he would drop preju- dice and take the craft, for it just suited him in every respect. “ He hastily sketched out his plan of im- provements, and here they ere,” and Mr, New- man handed over @ paper upon which, written in a bold band, were a number of specifications for the improvement of the vessel, ‘¢ We returned to the office and he took outa couple of check-books, and asked if I would refer a check upon his Mobile baukers, Brewer Company, or New Orleans, for he could go around to the latter and hand me the money if I desired. **T Jooked at my watch and told him that it was after banking hours, so to give me the check, which he did. “Then he told me, as there (was a good wind and he had the crew of his plantation craft with him, with my permission he would put them on _ board and take a short sail to see how the goleta handled. ‘ “Of course I did not object, and promising to call on the morrow he departed. “The next morning oue of my men told me that a lubberly little craft was anchored where the goleta had been and | hustened down to see her. ‘*She was a leaky, good-for-nothing coaster, with not ten dollars’ worth of furniture in her, and in dismay I hastened to tho bank with my check, and found that no such a person as Plan- ter Montefeno had an account there, nor was such a person known to them. ‘Then I knew that the goleta had been stolen from me} but that man could not have been the pirate himself.” ; ‘ ‘t Describe him, please, sir.” said Clover. Mr. Newman did so, and Clover said: af Yes, sir, that man was Lumonte, the Lagoon Rover. CHAPTER LII, THE PURSUIT, Tue story told by the shipping-agent bad been listened to with the deepest interest both by Captain Dare and Clover. “ The latter could not have told, in the moment he got a glim of the Rover on board his oleta, at the time of the attack, whether'it was e or some one else who had purchased the vessel, or rather defrauded the agent out of her; but Clover knew bim well and the description given he at once recognized as that of La- monte. “He left his schooner down on the coast, cap- tured some r coaster, aud witha few men of his crew came up to thecity after the goleta “Tf he had not gotten her from you, sir, as he did, he would have cut ber out,” said Clover, and Dare at once rejoined: “ You are right, Iam sure, Clover; but now, Mr, Newman, can you tell me just what start he has of me?” “T should judge, sir, that he went at once down the river, when pretending to try the sail- ing qualities of the goleta, aud so he is all of thirty-six hours ahead of you, sir.” ‘Well, there are some stores that I need, and it will be several hours before I can get off; but I shall retake the goleta, sir, and I hope the other vessel of the Rovér also, for it belongs to a Mexican gentleman who is a friend of mine.” “ Yes, sir, Lieutenant Orville told me of your gallant capture of the goleta, and the pirates’ escape and daring seizure of the Mexican Don’s yacht; but Jet me now see how I can serve you in the way from the office. Three hours after the Sea Soldier got up an- chor and set sail from the fort, The wind was ahead, so that she had to beat | down the river, but she made rapid progress and ran on until night, when she anchored until morning, Then she continued on her way and soon after ran out of the murky waters of the Mississippi into the clear blue of the Gulf of Mexico. ** Which course shall I put her on, sir?’ asked Lieutenant Orville, entering the cabin where Cecil Dare sat. ** Ah, yes, Mr. Orville, hold her as she is un- til I come on deck, and have Clover sent to me, please,” The lieutenant went on deck and soon Clover entered the cabin. ‘Clover, Lieutenant Orville just asked me what course to put the schooner on?” ‘¢ Yes, sir.” T told him to wait until I came on deck.” ** Yes, sir.” ‘Then I sent for you.” ‘© T am here, sir.” **So I see, and I wish to ask your advice, Clover.” ‘* My advice, Captain Dare?” ** ‘Yes, that is what I said.” ** What could I do, sir, to advise you?” * Tell me which course to put the schooner on. “ T tell you, sir?” a“ Yes,” “* It is for you to say, Captain Dare.” ‘* Then I disagree with you, Clover, for Iam in pursuit of Lamonte, the Red Rover of the Gulf, and I desire to know which course to pur- sue to come up with him?’ ** Ah, IT understand now, sir,” ** Then tell me,” ‘*] believe, Captain Dare, that Lamonte has gone at once to the retreat in the lagoons, or he has at least sent the goleta there.” * That ‘is. my idea.” “Tf the time of my pledge was up, sir, the ono I made to Felice, the Rover Queen, I would pilot your vessel there, sir, and some day I will do ‘*But you cannot do so now?” ** No, sir.” ‘* Then we must lose the treasure?” ‘No, sir; for the goleta will be doubtless Jaid up for repairs, for at the stronghold there is a tramway to haul the vessel out on, and in the band are some first-class ship’s carpenters, “Tf Captain Latmonte had nct wished to get possession of the galeta herself, he would have secured the treasure and left her.” ‘* So I believe.” ‘*So he will take her to the stronghold for re- pairs, and as no one knows the secret of the treasure-closet, it will not be discovered,” ** And will he stay there meanwhile” **T think not, sir, for a couple of days are as long as he stays there at one time,” “Then he would go upon a cruise, you think?” ‘*-Yes, sir.” ** Yet first go to the stronghold?” *¢ Yes, sir,” ‘* We are forty-eight hours behind him?” ** About that, sir.” ‘In the condition that the goleta is he would hardly drive her too hard?” : “*T think not, sir.” ‘* Then by driving hard with the schooner we could overtake him?’ ‘Captain Dare,” said Clover, thoughtfully. ‘Yes, my boy.” “You asked my advice, and I'll tell you what I will do.” 2 ate at an nya will not betray the pretty pirate gir), Felice but I will tell you a course ‘Rpripcanan tek will bring you near the retreat,” es,” “ By laying off-shore, barely in sight, the Sea Arrow can be sighted when she comes out of the lagoons, and ycu can give chase,” ‘I understand, my boy.” ““If you overhaul tho craft, then I will still not bave broken my pledge, and then, when the time is up, I wil pilot you to the stronghold, and you can run in in tho pirate craft itself, so as to give a complete surprise, and by day, but I must make terms for the Pirate Queen and her mother,” f. Ail you ask for them I will grant, Clover.” fis ere you, sir, and if you will now come eck, 1 will give you your course,” said youth with a sihtle. spend sry hea CHAPTER LIL THE CHASE, THE appearance of the youth on deck, along with the captain, convinced the officers and crew the more that Clover knew more about niemers and things in general than they had sus- pected. They heard him tell the captain to lay his course for a certain point on the Mexican st, and then Clover snggested that a vessel standing in toward the Balize, and evidently coming 25 from the direction the schooner was to take, should be hailed and queetioned. The schooner was at once put away to head off the strange sail, which was a large baraue, and a shot fired over her brought her to \-ry promptly. As the scbooner neared “er under shortened sail, Cecil Dare himself hailed: ** Ahoy the barque!” ‘““Ho, the scbhooner-of-war!” came the re- sponse. ‘‘Have you come across two lateen-rigged eraft within the past forty-eight hours?” aS Aw. ap aby,” ‘When and where?” ‘Thirty hours ago, sir, heading southward, “One of the vessels gave chase and opened fire, but we bad a stiff breeze and all sail set, so she gave it up after an hour and stood on after the other craft.” “Ay, ay, sir, and I thank you, with regret at delaying you.” “You are welcome, sir, and let me tell you that one of the vessels showed no colors, but the other had up a red flag.” - “AY; ay, they are the craft we seek—good- ay. The schooner was then crowded with sail and went flying on her course at a terrific speed. “Only thirty hours ahead of us, Clover.” “Yes, sir, the goleta bad to run where La- monte had left his other vessel when be ran up to the town, so we gained on him.” ‘*Yes, and at the pace that the Sea Soldier is now going we will gain two to one on them,” **T wish you could come up with them before they reach the lagoons, sir.” ‘**T only wish that we could,” was the reply. Night came on soon after, and the wind in- creased in strength until it keeled the schocner well over and sent ber tearing along like a frightened thing of life. She had all set that would draw, and the crew were now all anxiety, for they knew that their captain was on the track of the Red Rover of _ Gulf, and with chances of coming up with im. {* But what was the other craft, they won- dered, for no one could answer their question who would vouchsafe any answer. At last they surmised that the goleta had been cut out of ber anchorage at New Orleans by the Red Rover and unless she was retaken they would lose their share of prize money which her sale would have brought ‘them. Tt was ou the evening of the tenth day after that the schooner was cruising slowly along the Mexican Coast, some two leagues off-shore. A calm of several days and baffling winds had followed her good start, and Captain Dare was becoming most anxious about the delay, for he feared now there was no chance of coming up with the two lateen rigs. ** Sail ho!” suddenly came from aloft, and Cecil Dare hestened on deck, to find Clover surveying some object through bis glass, ‘*What do you make ber out, Clover?’ asked . Cecil Dare as the youth stepped toward him. ‘*T make her a lateen-rigged craft, sir, and her sails are rather new.” ‘*Ts it the pirate goleta?” ‘* Not the one that he cut out, sir.” FPS yaa it is the yacht he robbed Don Ramon re) “IT think so, sir, but I never saw that craft, you know.” “True, but which way does tbe stranger head?” ‘Ske is creeping along shore, sir, evident] sarge sighted you, and istrying to keep hid- en ‘ Then it would be well to pretend not to see ber, go about on another tack and stand sea- ward?” “Yes, sir, for if you chased her now she could readily find a hiding-place among the lagoons.” The order was at once given to put the schooner upon the port tack, and away she went bowling swiftly along and leaying the land astern, Arun of half an hour revealed the fazt that the stranger was alsorunning out from under the land, yet still trying not to be seen, baving ventana that the schooner was armed, As night drew on Clover approached the cap- tain and said, with a polite salute: ‘* May f offer a suggestion, sir?” ** Certainly, out with it.” “‘ The stranger is on the same tack you are, sir, andif she holds onas sheis and you were to anchor, she would pass within a mile of you.” “So she would, Clover.” “ Well, sir, these Gulf pirates havea hiding dodge that you might try as soon as it is dark.” ‘* What is it, Clover?” “The craft astern, sir, will doubtless suppose you hold straight on your course, and if you suddenly strip the schooner to bare poles after nightfall, and lay quiet upon the waters, you will hardly be seen, at Jeast not until you are very near and the goleta gets within good range. ‘Phen you can open fire, sir, and see how your speed compares with hers.” ‘Clover, you always hold a trump card and know how to play it and when. . “*T will follow your advice to the letter and
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26 The Red Flag Rover. only hope that the goleta will. follow so closely in our wake as to run upon us before we are seen,” **T hope so, sir, and if so Lamopnte’s days are numbered.” The orders were accordingly given, and soon as the night fell upon the sea, shutting out all within a mile’s vision, the schooner was stripped of every bit of canvas, and lay upon the waters silent, dark, and with the crew expectant. An hour passed, and just as many thought the commander of the goleta had changed her course, there came into sight, not a mile distant, the lateen-rigged craft which Clover’s ruse had brought so near, CHAPTER LIV. THE BANKER’S RETURN. Srnor Escanon returned in safety to the city, and reported his arrival to his friend Senor Valverde by a note, requesting him to drive with him that day. But the messenger returned with the response that Senor Valverde had gone to his mines some time before had had not returned. Escalon smiled blandly and went to his office to get rid of business accumulating during his absence, But Senor Escalon was a perfect manager, and all about his office went on like clock-work, He bad a clerk for every important depart- ment, and- two general supervisors, so that he had only to glance at statements to see that all was correct. A couple of hours each day were sufficient for him, as the head, to look to his affairs and no one could ever deceive bim, so that the clerks were thorough in all they did. He paid them well, did not overwork them, always had a present for each man on bis birth- day and Christmas, and never scolded, but dis- missed for neglect of duty, His household was conducted upon the same lan, and the clerks and servants of Senor Fecalodt were noted throughout the town for their devotion to their employer and his inter- ests, It has already been hinted that Senor Escalon dad other business than his bank. He was the proprietor of a loan shop, and also had an establishment where he dealt in second- hand things, as well as a store where he sold all kinds of goods, Not one of these establishments knew that Senor Escalon was the proprietor, The senor was a man of cunning devices, and his loan agency wes conducted by a man who ‘vas supposed to be the proprietor, but he was simply manager for Escalon, and he did not know that the wealthy old white-baired, white- bearded man who came in each week at night to ‘look over his books, was the famous banker in diszuiae, So if was in the second-hand shop and the store, where pirate booty and: smuggled goods were secretly sold, the Senor Escalon had his disguises so as not to be known even to the managers of his establishments, The rary cae captain who ran goods in never saw Senor Escalon as he really was, and knew not who he was, always dealing with the mana- ger of the shop. So it was that only Captain Almo Urbana and Senor Valverde, alias Henrico, the Highway- man, knew bim asihe was, And they simply knew that the famous banker ‘was not the virtuous man he was painted, that he had stooped to cheat at cards and to plot against Cecil Dare, while he took the plunder of the one as a gentleman of the road and had ar- ranged to receive the booty of the other asa pirate. It may therefore be understood that Senor Escalon lived under no ax he expected to fall and crush him, but took life serenely. He was not afraid of Alma Urbana or Val- be and no one else could say aught against im. Having attended to his business affairs at the office, and seen that nothing had suffered through his week’s absence, be dropped in at the club to meet his army and navy friends, nearly all whom he held the paper of for *lonns, and then took a ride for exercise, in spite of his baving just returned from a long jaunt on horseback, He ate his dinner alone, and enjoyed it, for the Senor Escalon enjoyed life immensely, Then he strolled around to the Monte Casino, and after a chat with several friends entered into a game in which, with his usual luck, he came out winner. As he was loaving the Casino he met a man coming in. ** Ah! Valverde!” ** The Senor Escalon!” ** Yes, 1 am home again,” ** Welcome back,” “*T sent a note for you to dine with me.” **Sorry I missed it, for I have the utmost re- gard for your dinners.” : ** Come round and sup with me now.” “* What is going on up in the Casino?” “Nothing; it’s dull as our early mass.” “Did you play?’ “ Yes, ? ** Won, of course?” ** A thousand, only.” Thanks, ’ll go and sup with you,” So saying the two friends went around to the elegant home of Senor Escalon, It was indeed a superb house, large, with spacious halls, rooms, verandas and courts, and all furnished with extravagant luxury. They went into Senor Escalon’s snug sitting- room, wine and a cold supper were ordered, and they sat down for a talk. ** When did you get back, Escalon?” ‘* This morning.” * Had a hard trip of it, I guess?” ‘No, a pleasant one.” ** You went to the Ravera Hacienda?” ** Oh, yes.” ** And Urbana?” ** Was there.” ** His vessel, too?” ** Ob, yes,” ‘“* He had not been on a cruise, then?” ‘*No more than from Vera Cruz to the ha- cienda,” ‘* He was surprised to see you, of course?” ** And sorry, as well,” ** And you left him there?” es No, e sailed twenty-four hours before I ‘*Good! I feared you would have trouble with him.” ““No, why should I?” ‘Well, he had the vessel and you were alone there.” ‘*Yes, but bis plan was to win the Senorita Ravera,” ‘* But the American?” Senor Escalon laughed and then said: “Well, Urbana is a sly dog, and I'll tell you that he has become Don Rumon’s honored guest, while he has cast a cloud upon that American officer that is remarkable for bis ingenuity. ‘“*He will make a superb villain, Urbana will,” ** What has he done?” ‘Why, he pretended to know nothing of the American’s being known to the Raveras, and told of how he cheated at cards, struck him, a duel followed and he had some of the crew of his vessel there to set upon himself and friends, and that thus he received that ugly wound in bis face. “Good! and they believed it?” ‘*'The Don did, but the girl loves the American and doubts. ‘** But Urbana has been staying there with his brig, pretending that the American was a pirate, and intending to sink him upon his return,” ‘* Good!” ‘Well, no; for it would bring the United States down upon us, rough shod, for him to do so, and all he'would accomplish wovld be to bring on a war and marry the girl, perhaps, ** But Pil tell you the situation,” and Senor Eecaion went oii to tell the whole stery to which Valverde listened with the deepest attention. ‘* Then, of course, you will get a slice of the Don’s fortune if he marries the daughter, for be will do so.” **No, he will never marry the Senorita Ra- vera,” ** You think she will not have him?” “1 know it.” ‘* Ts she so desperately in love with the Ameri- ean as that?” ** Yes, she loves him with her whole heart and soul, but that is not the question.” ** What is?” ‘** Well, 1 fell in love with her myself.” “You did?” “ Yes,” ‘* T thought you never intended to marry,” ‘*[ bave changed my mind since seeing ae ita Ravera, and I shall marry ber, for it will be a good investment to get the handsomest woman in Mexico and largest fortune at one stake,” “Well, you are the man to accomplish what you undertake,” The banker laughed, and then said: ‘* Yes, I fooled you on those thirty thousand pesos, didn’t 1?” **T do not understand, senor,” Again the banker laughed, and said: ** Your mask hid’your face; you had a hand- some suit of clothes on, but you forgot to take off the ring you wear, and which you have told me was the only one in Mexico; but I forgivo you, my dear Valverde, though in future there must be honor among thieves, or I might lose my friendship for you.’ ‘ Escalon, I believe you are akin to tho devil,” “Thank you, my dear Valverde,” was the cool response of the banker. CHAPTER LY, THE LOST GOLETA, As Clover bad said, and the reader has sur- mised, the man who 80 cleverly got the treasure — into bis possession was none other than amonte the Rover of the Lagoons. He would have paid for the goleta if he could not have gotten her out any other way; but he was clever enough as a villain to plot to get pos- — of her without bloodshed or the cost of a ollar, He kad, as Clover had said, captured a small coasting craft, and in it, with half a dozen of his crew, run up to New Orleans, leaving his own vessel hiding in a secluded bayou on the Gulf Coast, Arriving at the city, he had pretended to be a gentleman passenger taken from a vessel at the Passes, and so went to the Hotel St. Luis and secured the best suite of rooms they had, register- ing as a planter of the coast. Then he had gone out and teken a Jook at the goleta at anchor in river, and discovered that there were but two men on board. Discovering that she was in condition to put to sea he had secured a blank bank book, dressed himself in elegant style and sought out Mr, Newman, the shipping agent. What followed the reader has seen, and hav- ing gotten possession of bis old vessel the men on board were taken down the river and, with the people taken from the coaster were cruelly turned adrift in an open boat to make their way ashore as best they could. Then the goleta headed for the bayou where the Sea Arrow was lying in hiding. The goleta was by no means in good trim, and so the two vessels kept together for a couple of days, and one night a storm came on and in the morning the treasure craft was nowhere to be seen. The Sea Arrow went cn to the retreat alone, and it was just sunset when she dropped anchor in the lake under the cliff. Captain Lamonte at once went on shore, and after a pleasant greeting from the mother and daughter, told of how he had gotten the vessel. ‘“Then you had to pay for her after all, La- monte?” Felice said, ** Yes, I gave five thousand in cash for her.” ‘* Well, we will pay back to the people out of the treasure what they advanced, for we can afford to do that.” ‘*T do not seo why we should.” ‘* In simple justice, that is all; but where is the goleta?” ; ‘¢ She is coming; we got separated last night in the storm.” “ And you have not seen her since the storm?” “ No,” ‘¢ And you say she was in such bud condition that you nea near her on the run ont?” Yes.” ** Who is in charge of her?” ‘“* My second officer, Senor Ravel, and he has eight men with him,” J never liked Ravel.” ‘© He is a good officer.” ‘* Yes, but a bad man.” ‘‘ He'll bring her here in safety, never fear,” ‘ But the treasure you ‘removed to your vessel?” ie ‘*No, I simply saw that the treasure was there, that the secret closet had not been found, so I bought the goleta, feeling perfectly satisfied, and glad to get her, for she can be put in splen- did trim for future use.” ** Yet you did wrong not to remove the treas- ure, Lamonte,” 8 ‘*May Lask what future use you would have for the goleta, Senor Lamonte, if you keep your pledge to my husband and give up piracy, taking us out of this terrible life?” asked the Senora Chevallo quietly and firmly. The face of the young pirate flushed at tho qu2stion, and he responded: ‘Tt is well to provide for the future, senora, be our plans what they a ‘tT only hope that the goleta will come in safe, though I fear for ber,” said Felice, ‘*T have no fear for her in Ravel’s hands.” * That is just what I havefear of, Senor Cap- tain, because she is in his hands.” ‘“ Why, he is noted as a skillful sailor,” “Yes, and as a man who is false to every being on earth except Ravel.” * Ah! you fear he may run off with her?” “ I do.” “Thad not thought of that, but I do not be- lieve he will do so.” ‘* How many men has he with him?” “ Right.” “Ths goleta can be repaired and made as good as new?” “ Yes.” “She bas her guns and ammunition on board?” ** She has,” ** Well, you know how ambitious Ravel is to rise in command, and [ fear he may seize upon the goleta and turn her into a pirate on his own account, ‘*Does he know of the treasure on board?” asked Senor Chevallo, **T believe that he does, though not where to find it.” “That is an easy matter, and I believe you have simply paid out five thousand dollars, lost your time and will never see the goleta again,” elice said warmly. ‘** Perhaps I had better go at once in search of the goleta, then,” Captain Lamonte said. uf think it would be wise, my daughter, do not you?”
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The Red Flag Rover. Pad cuse for keeping up this lawless life, Lamonte, and I tell you that it must end soon,” and Felice seemed to be in deep earnest. : The pirate at once returned on board his ves- sel, the anchor was gotten up and the vessel be- gan to make her way toward the sea once more, As she came out from the lagoons the lookout suddenly called out: ** Sail ho!” A close look through the glass and Lamonte said: ‘$It is our old foe, that American schooner, so we must not stand out to sea until she has passed on, for they have not sighted us, and will not.” But he was mistaken. CHAPTER LVI. LIKE AN APPARITION IN HER WAKE, THE ruse of the schooner-of- war, which Clover had suggested, bad worked to a charm, With every particle of sail lowered, and lying low in the waters, the schooner was not readily seen. As she had disappeared from sight to seaward, with all sail set, those on the pirate craft sup- posed she would hold on her course, and had not sighted them inshore, ut instead the vessel was stripped of her can- vas and lay almost in their course. Every man was at his post, every officer on duty, and all was excitement on board the schooner, though it was suppressed completely. Tho goleta had been stolen from them and here was the chance to catch the thief and also retake Don Ramon’s yacht. The Sea Arrow, meanwhile, believing that the schooner had not discovered her, put seaward soon after nightfall. The purpose of Lamonte was to stand off-shore a number of leagues, then head up the coast in search of the lost treasure craft. a strange coincidence his cvurse was almost that taken by the schooner-of-war Sea Soldier; but the man at the wheel let her fall off half a point from sheer laziness and so she passed | half a mile to leeward of the craft lying in wait for her. The officer of the deck would sweep the hori- zon lazily, more by habit than from an expecta- tion of finding any sail in sigbt, and he failed to take in the tall, slender masts.of the Sea Soldier and the dark hull lying so low upon the saa, like a tiger preparing for a fatal leap upon its prey. he goleta swept by with a ten-knot breeze, bending : ing splendid headway through the sea, which was not rough. She sanest the schooner, and held on, and ‘every man on board the Sea Soldier drew a lorg breath. : Asshe swept by the order was given in a low jones Set sail, and make no unnecessary sound, | e ” The men crept to their work like cats, and the well-oiled blocks of the schooner uttered no creaking sound, not a loud word was spoken and the Sea Soldier was in the wake of the Sea Arrow before the latter had gotten a mile away, f With all sail set she rushed on, now directly in the wake of her prey, every man at his gun, and all ready for action the moment they were di ered, ‘And as they watcbed, all saw that the Sea Soldier was gaining rapidly, for the goleta was not under full sail. Captain Lamon came on deck at eight bells, and glanced about him, Tie night was dark, for clouds obscured the stars, and the wind seemed to be rising. _ “Boe prepared for a blow by dawn, senor,” he said to the officer in charge. ms “G5 [T have thought, senor,” was the re- sponse, ts “ Have you seen any sail?” *‘ None, senor—my God! see there!” The officer had suddenly glanced astern and beheld not half a mile away, @ leaning tower of white directly in their wake. : Like an apparition it had seemed to him from the sea, and avy sailor’s eye knew that it was a 1 fall sail. we Tt is. at antiat ship!” cried the officer in a tone of horror. . With a bitter oath Lamonte leveled his glass at the vessel and loud rung his voice: “ Fooli it is the American schooner-of-war! “Take that!” ; As he spoke he drew his sword and brought it down upon the pirate officer with a force that laid bim dead upon the deck. ' “ Blind idiots! do you not see that American war craft? : ‘To your posts, you lazy, ‘sightless hounds, and remember your necks are ina noose, for it will be no child's play to beat off that fellow, as you know. “Toquartersall! “ Crowd ber with sail!” Loud rung his orders, and bis having cut the officer in charge down for not having sighted the vessel sent the men in terror to their posts. Up from below they came like a swarm of bees, and then came the words: racefully as she sped along, and mak- | “Pll have every one of you who was on watch shot, soon as we beat that American off. “There is no gold to be gained there, but iron, lead and steel, and death at the rope’s end if he conquer’s us. ** Ho, aloft!” *t Ay, ay, sir!” answered the frightened lock- out in trembling accents, for though asleep on his post for an hour past, he was now as wide awake as he ever had been in his life. ‘¢ Come to the deck here, you hound!” Ay, ay, sir.” But the man did not, ‘Come down, I say!” roared Lamonte, ** Ay, ay, sir.” Still the frightened wretch did not move, and then came the order: “Two of you devils take a rope and go aloft, tie it about that hound’s neck, and make fast the other end—then hur! him off his perch!” Two men sprung forward to obey, for the crew were now terribly alarmed, not only in terror of their aroused commander, but at the nearness of the foe they had so much’reason to dread, for many of them recalled the attack of the schooner’s crew upon the goleta. But, as the men sprung into the rigging, a loud ery arose from the crew, and the man at the mast-head with a ery of terror leaped far out and descended into the sea, while the pirate goleta swept on. ‘* Curses upon him, he has cheated me!” cried Lamonte. He quickly calmed down and turned to see that his vessel and crew were all ready for action, to beat off the craft coming silent and white in their wake like an apparition risen from the sea, CHAPTER LVII. THE SEA SOLDIER IN ACTION. THERE was no better sailor on the seas than | was Cecil Dare. His ship was always a model of neatness and order, bis crew were under perfect disci- pline, and he was beloved by officers and men. In action he was always a hero to his men, while his nerve was of iron and he never al- lowed himself to become excited, When the schooner put away in chase of the goleta, hardiy an order lad to be given, for the men knew their duty. They did not weigh chances, wonder how many more guns the pirate bad than the schoon- er, and how much larger crew. They simply went to their posts to fight it out under their gallant captain. When they saw bim come on deck with his boarding-helmet on and heavy'cutlass swung at his side, they knew that he intended to carry the pirate by boarding. By his side stood Clover and he also was arm- ed and seemed anxious for the fray. **Mr. Orville, we wiil carry the pirate b boarding,” said Captain Dare, after! a close loo through his glass. ** Yes, sir, allis ready.” “The craft belongs, as you know, to Don Ramon, and I do not care to damage her any more than is necessary, and her value I will put up as prize-money for the crew,” “Yes, sir.” _ We may, if he opens a heavy fire, return it with grape and small-arms, but I do uot wish the heavy shot to be turned upon her.” “It would be better not to, sir, as you say, and the grape will.do her crew more damage,” ** And [ shall lead the boarders, Mr. Orville.” **T had hoped for that honor, Captain Dare.” **No, you look to the care of the schooner. Ah! they have disenvered us,” Just then the loud voice of Lamonte was heard, and all on the schooner knew that the pirates had at last discovered them. » Those on the Sea Soldier awaited the result with renewed interest, The glasses of the officers Showed that there was intense excitement on board the goleta, men were running to and fro, loud orders were heard and a panic seemed to have seized momen- tarily upon them. Then the goleta began to set extra cailand the result was a greater speed through the waters, At length she began to hold her own with the schooner it seemed, as she had everything set that would draw. “‘T think we gain a little, sir; perhaps a quar- ter of a mile an hour,” said Clover, who had been conning both vessels closely. “Then we can catch him in time,” said Lieu- bars prrile. ; ‘ @ does not cripple us with his hea guns,” coolly responded Cecil Daro, ie mpg y Clover gave a startled cry and called out: **Twomen started up into the rigging. sir and a man aloft has leaped into the eon ae “Ha! then it is to escape from the pirate. Did he jump clear of everything?’ “ Yes, sir; I saw him hit the water,” answered Clover, “ Forward there! keep a bright lookout for a man overboard from the goleta, and your ears open for a bail,” * Ay, ay, sir!” “Clover, you can see in the dark, so go for- ward and look out for the fellow, and a dozen pS Se Ss CO ee eee } { of you men get life-lines to throw to him as we go by.”> é The orders were quickly obeyed, and all stood breathlessly waiting. The schooner beld on as before, directly in the wake of the goleta, and suddenly came from forward: “T heard him hail!” It was Clover’s voice, and loud and shrill it rung out: “* Whareaway!” “To starboard, sir!” : ** Av, ay, all life-lines to starboard!” shouted Clover, and then came the hail: ** You are heading all right. ** Now look out for me!” It was too dark to see the man upon the wa- ters,so a blue light was at once lowered, and there was visible the bold swimmer. As the man was discerned, through the blue light, there came 2 burst of flame from the stern of the goleta, and a deep roar, with the shriek- ing of the heavy solid shot as it flew above the decks of the schooner. But not even a rope was tonched, and the next instant the life-lines, with buoys attached, were thrown and the swimmer grasped one, He swept rapidly astern as the schooner drove by, and the next instant the rope became taut with a jerk, but it held, and a cheer broke from the crew as the man was drawn in safety on board, There came another shot from the goleta, and well aimed, it tore along the decks, and the man who had just been rescued from death in the sea fell dead. The solid shot had killed him, and not anotber one of those on board the schooner was hurt. ‘“ What an irony of fate,” muttered Cecil Dare, as he beheld the strange sight, and he then called out to open with the forward pivot, loaded with grape. Presently the order was.obeyed, and the schooner showed that she was not an apparition, but a deadly foe in the pirates’ wake. Then both yessels opened rapidly, the pirate with his stern gun, the schooner with the bow pivot, and it became a grand and deadly sea dual between the two beautiful vessels as, under clouds of canvas, they rushed swiftly through the waters, illumining the sea far and wide with the red glare of action. CHAPTER LVIII. » IN THE TEETH OF A TEMPEST. THE sight was a grand one, though appalling, and the two vessels were flying along and fight- ing. The pivot gun of the goleta was fired with heavy charges, and the bow gun of the sciiooner fired at the flash of her foe’s shot, so as to cut down the crew with a shower of grape at every discharge, The pirates, under this style of fire, were ex- cited, for men dropped about their guns at every sbot from the Sea Soldier, But for the danger to the gunners fiom the grape, the schooner would have suffered far more from the heavy shot of the buccaneer, The loss of a dozen men at last infuriated La- monte to stich an extent that he ordered bis pivot loaded with grape, But here the schooner’s high bows, the cables hastily laid over forward, and bundles of old sails, protected the crew of the gun, while those on the stern of the goleta had only the taftrail to shield them, and the loss was just as heavy. The vessels were very nearly equal in tonnage, the schooner perhaps being a trifle longer, while the goleta had more beam, Their batteries were equalized, though the go- leta bad the most guns, by those on the Sea Soldier being of beavier caliber. In the point of crew the goletu, even with her thinned ranks, had a dozen more men. Still had the odds against him been far greater Cscil Dare would bave gone into the fight. In the discharge of duty he did not count odds. There was a great desire in bis heart to punish the kidnapper of Rachel Ravers, as wellas to recapture the Don’s yacht which bad!been dese- crated by a pirate commander. He would also have the name of driving from the seas a most crvel pirate, as Lamonte was spreading terror to honest creft by bis cruelties, Stern and determined, Cecil Dare stood upon his deck watching the chase, His vessel had been hurt, but not materially, and half a dozen dead men were Jying upon the decks, while twice that number had been carried below wounded more or Jess seriously, His vessel gained upon the goleta, but so slow- ly as to be hardly preceptible, and he knew that ped would not come to close quarters before awn, He saw that the skies looked black and threat- ening and the fear came to him that if a severe storm swept over the seas it might keep them apart. So far the chase had been dead to seaward, the schooner holding vantage in this Fenpecte and keeping the pirate from running for safety to bis favorite hiding-places in the lagoons, Still Cecil Dare knew that be was too close upon his foe for him to dodge him even in the lagoons had be been near them,
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28 The fire of the schooner did more and more damage to life, though none to speak of to the vessel itself, and Lamonte became almost des- perate. At last he decided that he must turn and fight the schooner, for the men wovld no longer go to the stern gun and be shot down. © gave orders to go about and at the same time to pour a broadside upon the schooner as the goleta wore around, and to have the large bow pivot loaded to the muzzle with grape to open as he bore down upon his enemy. The crew were also ordered to use small-arms, and then the goleta was to be laid alongside the schooner and the combat must be fought out at close quarters on the Sea Soldier’s deck. The very moment that the goleta swung up into the wind, Cecil Dare detected what the pirate was up to, and instantly the order was given for the schooner also to come up sharply, As the broadside of the goleta opened with heavy shot, the broadside of the schooner poured in grape, and Lamonte found that he had a very dangerous antagonist to fight. But just at that moment came the command of Cecil Dare: “Tn with all light sails! lively, lads, lively, for the storm is upon us!” The pirate also began to take in his canvas and the guns were silent in the work of looking to the safety of the two vessels. When both were stripped to meet the tempest, before another gun could be fired, the howling winds and saereng waters struck the goleta, completely hiding her from view. ‘*Every eye upon the goleta / ‘‘We must not lose her!” cried Cecil Dare and up into the rigging went Clover and perched there in defiance of the storm, to make it bis special duty to keep an eye upon the pirate. A few seconds more and the tempest was upon the schooner, But she met the shock bravely and then went dasbiag away upon its wings. “Ho, Clover! do you see the pirate?” cried Captain Dare through his trumpet when the schooner was driving along before the gale. ** No, sir, not yet,” came the reply. But soon after came the hail: ** Ho, the deck!” * Ay, ay, aloft!” **T see the pirate, sir.” ““ Whereaway.” *“* She is scudding, sir, under bare poles,” ** Ay, ay, and we'll do the same or we'll drive by ber.” The little canvas that set upon the schooner was taken in, and then came the hail: ** Ho, the deck!” “ Ay, ay.” “The pirate has set a little sail and is sneak- ing off to port.” ‘“* Ay, ay, sir, we will do the same, for he shall not escape us,” was Cecil Dare’s stern response. CHAPTER LIX, THE RED FLAG ROVER, On like mad racers the two splendid vessels drove before the tempest, each with just sail enough set to stsady them, and the goleta edging away so as to let the schooner drive by her, for Tamonte boped he was not seen, At length, as the schooner did not rush by, but kept in his wake steadily, he knew that he was seen, and he determined to try his guns again in spite of the gale. So he gave the order to clear the stern pivot for action, and sent a crew to it. “*Tf wecan cripple him, men, he is our game,” he’ called out, The men did not care for such game, still if tke schooner could be crippled it would save them from a terrific battle, if not a defeat which might end in a yard-arm scene in which mer were the important actors. they went to the gun with a will, and soon, echoing the thunder and rivaling the lightning, the deep boom of the gun, and the red glare of the flash were heard and seen. The shot, flew wild, for in that sea, with the vessel swayin terribly, no aim could be taken. But promptly came the reply of the bow- pivot on the schooner, and loaded with grape, which required no special aim, several struck the decks and a man was wounded, In the heavy seas and fierce wind it was now seen that the schooner was the stanchest boat, and she gained steadily. Lamonte was in despair at not being able to throw his enemy off, and yet kept up his fire hoping by a chance shot to cripple her. s his gunners failed to send a shot home ~ sprung to the gun bimself, aimed and fired t. The iron ball tore aces, the decks, and cut down several men, yet did no damage to the schooner, which still held on, Encouraged, however, by the cheer which bis crew gave. him, he fired again and again, but with no restlt, and he then knew that this shot had been a chance one and he called a gunner to take his place, The gunner was greeted with a cheer as the foretopmast of the schooncr was seen to come down. But the Sea Soldier still held on,” ete Priya Yaw. 2 Bl wea pr eae = . a“ The Red Flag Rover. And so the fight was kept up, with an occa- sional shot from each ‘vessel, until the dawn came in the east, The storm blew out suddenly, and the waves begav to go down so that the chance of a fight at close quarters became possible within a few hours. The schooner had crept up to within an eighth of a mile of the goleta, and wasstill gaining a, little, though not as before when theseas wererougher, and the wind blowing so furiously. The goleta opened fire with the rising of the sun, but the terrible bow pivot of the Sea Soldier, loaded with grape, drove the men to shelter, and all the threats and profanity of Lamonte could not bring the men to take the risks again, for as surely as their gun belched forth a solid shot, that instant a shower of grape came upon them. The pirate captain at length decided to try boarding, for the sea had run down and the wind was very light. So about he came, and as though on the same pivot the schooner bore around and their broad- sides flashed together. Both vessels got hard blows, but the pirate was determined to board pow with his desperate crew, and Cecil Dare was equally as determined to carry the goleta by boarding, for he had said: ‘¢ The fight must be upon his decks, men.” In vain did Lamonte maneuver for advantage, for he was met at every point, and the schooner in quick work handled better and, just as the goleta was to be laid alongside of the schooner the latter fell off, let her glide by and catching a puff of wind ran aboard and grappled. ‘* Boarders follow me!” cried Cecil Dare, and he sprung upon the pirate deck, with Clover by his side in an instant, At their back came the boarders, and the fight was upon the pirates’ deck, The onslaught was terrible and irresistible. The goleta’s crew were fairly borne off their feet, while the pivot-gun on the bigh bows of the schooner was depressed by Lieutenant Or- ville and poured into the crowded mass of humanity upon the after deck of the Sea Arrow a perfect hail of grape and canister, with a vol- ley of musketry and pistol-sbots from the men still upon the Sea Soldier, Terrible was the carnage, and the pirates saw that they were beaten as well as did the schoon- er’s men know that the victory was won. But, Lamonte was not a man to readily sur- render, He rallied his men desperately about him and kept up the combat, until Captain Dare met him face to face and their swords crossed, To the amazement of all, the pirate chief at once lowered his weapon, and what he said reached the ears of Dare, and Clover only. ‘* Strike, Cecil Dare and leave the brand of Cain upon you,” cried the Red Rover, Cecil Dare’s face, flushed with the excitement of battle, became as white as though he wasa dead man, He did not strike, he did not lower his sword, for it fell from bis hands to the deck! Into the face of the pirate he gazed witha look hard to fathom, and then said sternly, as he quickly recovered his composure; ‘Put this man in double irons and take him tomy cabin, Clover, you take charge of him.” **Clover? My God, boy, I deemed you dead,” and the Rover started back at the approach of the lad as though a ghost from the grave had confronted him. ‘*No, I am very much alive, Captain Lamonte, I'll take the liberty of hauling down your colors as you bave no further use for them,” and Clover quickly lowered the Red Flag of the Rover. CHAPTER LX. THE PIRATH’S STORY. Tux dropping of his sword by Captain Dare had been attributed to an accident by officers and men, and his manner and look had not been noticed when he heard the words of the pirate. Clover had quickly lowered the flag, and as men stepped forward and ironed the chief, the lad said* quickly: ** Now, come with me, Captain Lamonte, for I assure you that I am no ghost,” The pirate sullenly followed, and was led into the cabin of the schooner. Captain Dare remained on deck, to repair damages to both vessels, look after the wounded, bury the dead and iron the prisoners, BS that Clover was alone with the chief in the cabin. He gave him a seat, and then took a chain and made him fast to a ringbolt in the floor, while he remarked: “You escaped before, Captain Lamonte, when you were Ca; tain Dare’s prisoner, but this time you are quite safe.” * Curse you, boy, I had hoped I had killed you, “Oh, no, I’m all right, yet you did come pretty near it.” ‘*T fell into the water, you know, and it re- vived me, so fearing you, I dared not show my- self, and made my escape,” ‘Some one aided you,” “Who said sof” LS ‘“*T know it, for you could not escape other- wise.” ‘‘ You forget that. there were plenty of boats in the stronghold, and I could follow the coast to the nearest port, living upon fish and what else I could get bold of to eat.” ‘Well, I do not wonder that you escaped, for you are no ordinary boy. ‘But, what are you doing on board this vessel?” ‘* Private secretary to the captain.” ** Do you know who he is?” ‘* Captain Cecil Dare.” ‘* Yes, but do you know his father?” ** T hadn’t that honor,” ** Well, his father was my father,” ** Nonsense.” “ Tt is so.” ** T can’t believe that one so good and one s¢@ bad can be brothers, any more than I believe that oil and water will mix.” ‘* Yet I tell you the truth.” ** T do not believe you; in fact, I know that it is not so.” “ How do you know?” “ Never mind, but I know more of you, La monte, than you dream of,” ‘* Boy, who are you?” Clover laugbed, and the pirate said: ‘¢ Tt strikes me that I have met you before, and the same idea haunted me when you were at the stronghold.” Again Clover laughed, and Lamonte asked; ** Have we not met hefcre?”’ ‘‘Never mind me, Captain Lamonte, but pose me that you are a brother of Captain are ** T am his half-brother,” ‘¢ Yes, soon it wili be only leis cousin.” “No, I tell zon the truth,* ‘‘ Tf you really will tell the truth, I will tell you where you have met me before,” ‘¢ Well, my father married twice—three times, in fact. Captain Cecil was his son by bis first wife, who died, it is said, of a broken heart, and I am not the one to deny it, for I knew my father intimately. ‘Tn less than a year after his first wife's death, Cecil's mother, he married my mother, who was very rich. ‘¢ When I was born my mother took a great dislike to Cecil, then three years old, and, as I rew older, I had the same feeling toward bim. The result of it was that we made his existence a wretched one, aud 4 mother, having com-~- plete influence over my father, turned him also against Cecil. “So years passed. I reached my fourteenth year, and my parents spoke of sending me into the navy, while Cecil was to be brought up asa farm-hand; but the day after this decision, Cecil, then sixteen, disappeared, and what became of him we never knew, ‘My mother died a year after, and my father made me promise never to speak of bis first mar- riage and that he bad another son, ‘* After several years he married again, and married one who was supposed to be a poor wid- ow witb three cbildren—two girls and ason; but he knew that the widow was the heir to a large fortune in England, which sbe would get only at the death of an aged relative, and he felt that he could bide his time, ‘“*T need tell you no more than that 1 liked wickedness rather than virtue, and went to the bad so rapidly that I became, as you see me, @ sea rover, with every chance of being hung u to a yard-arm unless you wish to make a sma fortune by helping me to escape.” ‘We'll talk of that later,” said Clover, ina whisper, and the face of the pirate brightened with hope. Then Clover asked: ** But how was it re knew Captain Dare so quickly, when you had not seen him since be was seventeen years old?” “ He had captured my goleta as you doubtless know, and I held him in my power for an instant then, when be sprung boldly in among my men and confronted me, ‘‘He was in close quarters, and I had my sword poiut over his heart and as it pierced the flesh I knew him. ‘‘ J dropped the blade, as he did awhile ago on recognizing me, when if I had had the nerve then, 1 would not now be his prisoner. “Then, I beard from a man with me, who had once been in the navy, that the captain of the schooner was Cecil Dare, and that he had en- tered the service as a cabin-boy and won his way to the quarter-deck. ‘‘ His mother’s name was Dare, I recalled, and I knew then that he was my half-brother—seef” ‘Yes, I see,” answered Clover, and he seemed lost in deep thought, CHAPTER LXL THE BROTHERS. Nor until late in the afternoon, when the sun was upon the horizon and he had been called by the steward to his supper, did Cecil Dare go to his cabin, The repairs to the vessels, the care of the wounded and securing of the Bish eam had been his especial care, and with a slight lunch on deck he had seemed content. De Epa ee ee ae
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pl ane nn a Re 2b oy ee a i RS ae The Red Flag Rover. 29 At last the two vessels were ready to move, the dead had bec3 consigned to their sea graves, and easy sail ws ordered set and the course laid for Hacienda Harbor. Lieutenant Orville had been placed in com- mand of the prize, and his orders were to keep near the schooner, but, if he lost ber in the Bight or a storm, to hold on for Hacienda Har- or. The prisoners had all been put in irons below decks in the goleta, and the wounded, both the Americans and pirates, were also transferred to the Sea Arrow, with people to care for them and the surgeon of Cecil Dare’s vessel. ‘‘T wish to be in fighting trim, and unham- pered, if I meet a foe who would rob me of my prize,” he had said to Lieutenant Orville. “You have but sixty men for duty, sir, yet T have such confidence in youl would not feel anxiety for the result against a foe even stronger,” was the complimentary remark of the lieutenant. Then, when the two vessels moved off from the scene of combat, and headed for the Hacienda Harbor, Cecil Dare walked toward his cabin, He hesitated upon the companionway and called to Clover: ‘‘T will see him alone, Clover, and have some- thing to say to you afterward,” he said. The lad bowed and made no reply, and Cecil Dare descended to the cabin. There sat the pirate chief, beavily ironed about the ankles, and chained to the floor, but with bis arms free, Clover had humanely placed an easy-chair for him, and he was taking it easily, a cigar between his lips when Captain Dare entered. ‘No, I was not mistaken [ see, for you are Cecil Lamond,” said Lamonte quietly, regard- ing his victor curiously. “T was Cecil Lamond, in the long ago, but I dropped the name for that of my mother. ‘*T am Cecil Dare now, Montague.” ‘‘ Well, whatever name you go by yon have } won fame for it,” was the response, ‘‘ And the name you held in boyhood you dis- graced, and the one you hold now you have made terrible as that of a pirate, Montague,” “Yes, our lives have been far different, and yet our paths strangely croas now.” “True, and bitter tome is the thought that they do, “We are half-brothers, Montague, and yet when boys together there was not even friend- ship existing between us, ‘* You had the hard, cruel nature of our father, and be made my mother’s life wretched and she found res¢ in an early grave. “T fell to the tender mercies of a father I could not love, a stepmother I feared, and a step-brotber whom I soon learned to despise, ** IT stood it as long as I could, until I felt that my spiric was breaking, and tien I ran away, *““Of my life why speak, more than to say that, unaided, save by a will to conquer, 1 am to-day a commander in the navy of our coun- try, and the captor of my pirate brother! “My God, Montague! wish I had never entered the service, as it bas led me to this,” “Tt will nod be pleasant for you, Cecil, to put the hangman's noose about your brother’s neck, but your duty will force you to do it,” “Yes, my duty will,” was the sad response, Then Lamonte, as { will still call ontague Lamond, said: “I knew you on the goleta whea her, and you have ascar over your made by my sword-point, “*T recognized you iu time to check the thrust that would have pierced your heart, and then came your shot, which slightly stunned me, and I fell, pretending to be fatally wounded. ‘We have been matched against each other Sig Cecil, and you have been the victor each ime, “T recall, too, in our boyhood, that you were ever kind toward me, in spite of my treatment ou, “You never struck me a blow, but bore all and now, knowing your nature, [ feel how har it will be for you to hang me, your brother, and [really sympathize with you with all my heart,” an Dare hardly noticed the words, and seized eart now, “How came you to be a pirate, Montague, with life open to you for an honorable career?” i The devil in my nature, Cecil.” A man who has won the name you ‘have as @ bold sea rover, and can manage the desperate crew that you have, had it in him to win honor and narne.” banks for your complimentary word Cecil; but I chose the bad, par my ees to g0. right, while you with every incentive to ve you to rnin, chose the good in life and thus we stand to-day, you a naval officer, the captor of Lamonte the Rover, your brother,” wae is a fearful thought to me that it ia so, “It is and so must be; but where do you head yh ye hacienda of Don Ra enda vera to restore to him the yacht you captured so cleverly.” then “I shali sail for New Orleans to deliver up my | prisoners and report my capture of Lamonte the ed Flag Rover.” ‘Tf I could have met the Senorita Ravera in re long ago, Cecil, 1 would have led a different ife, ‘Ah, no, Montague, an angel from Heaven would never have changed your life, ‘But I cannot bear to see you ironed, and until we arrive in port I will set you free,” and the order was given to free the pirate chief of his irons, ey CHAPTER LXII, CLOVER’S PROPOSITION. THAT night Cecil Dare beld the deck until the middle watch and then. worn out, hesought his eabin, Lamonte had retired to the state-room assigned to him, and ‘Clover was also fast asleep. A troubled Jook rested upon the face of the young captain as the light of the cabin lamp fell upon it; but after a glass of wine to revive bis strength, he retired to his quarters to seek slum- ber. But sleep would not come to him, and he was on deck at dawn again, The schooner was bounding merrily along, with the goleta half a mile astern, and the day promised to be clear with a fresh breeze from a favorable quarter for their run. Soon Clover came on deck, and approached his ee ‘* Well, lad, it was a great victory we gained yesterday, though we lost many a brave fellow,” said Cecil Dare, pleasantly. “Yes, sir, and no other man would have gained the fight, for the odds were against us far more than we thought,” ‘Yes, for the prisoners Lamonte had on board were set free on condition they would fight for him, and the foolish fellows did so, without seemiug to know that they were fight- ing against themselves if we were beaten off.” ** Captain Dare?” Yes, Clover,” ; “Yesterday Lamonte told me who he was, for I heard his remark to you when he lowered his sword.” * Hal was it heard by any one else?” quickly asked the ofiicer. ** Not one, sir, and the men aave no suspicion of the truth,” “Tam glad of that, for I—” “T understand, sir, that you cannot be the one to send your brother to the yard-arm.” ‘Yes, that is just it, although he has been my enemy since he was old enough to talk, **Lot me. tell you how itis, Clover, that we are brothers,” and Captain Dare briefly told the story, adding: _ * Now, bad as he has been, guilty as he now is of a thousand crimes, he is my brother, and my whole nature revolts from the thought that I am to be his executioner.” ** Captain Dare, ‘will you do me a favor?” * Certainly, Clover.” ‘Go thrcugh the ward-room to the cabin, not letting the prisoner seo you enter it, and listen to what I have to say to Lamonte.” “This is a strange request, Clover,”? ‘You said that you would do as I asked, sir; not now, but after breakfast, and you will be glad to know what I say to him, I feel as- sured.” ; : “JT will yield to you, Clover, though I cannot understand your motive,” ‘* All will be made plain, sir, but do not make your presence known, I beg of you, no matter what you hear.” After breakfast Captain Dare found an op- portunity to slip into his state-room unseen, and Clover let it be known that no one was to enter the cabin for a couple of hours as the captain was seeking rest, , Then the lad slipped down into the cabin where Lamonte sat, reading a book as compla- cently as though the shadow of the gallows was not hanging over bim. ‘Captain Lamonte, I would like to have a talk with you,” said Clover, seating himself. ‘*Do you come with propositions from your captain” ‘No, sir, from myself, and you read aright that I have a proposition to make to you.” ** Name it.” ~ You were in New Orleans some ten days a o a How do you know that?” “Never mind how, but you bought there with a fraudulent check, your goleta, and set sail with her for the lagoon stronghold. ‘* Ts she there?” us No.” “ Where is she?” +e lost her ina storm and have not seen her nee, ‘Then she went on to the stronghold?” ‘*No, for I left there day before yesterday to come and look for her.” “ Well, I a to know that you got her back to take from her the treasure from the secret closet.” oH, Ha! that traitress Felice told you that se- cre ‘*She did nothing of the kind, for I found it out in my own inquisitive way.” ——— ‘Well, what of it?” ‘Did you take the treasure from the goleta?” “T did not.” ** Who is in command of the craft?” “* Ravel, whom you know.” * Then neither you, or any one else except Ra- vel, will ever see that treasure.” “You think he would run off with the goleta?” ‘*T am sure of it.” ‘‘ Well, what was your proposition?” ‘To send me with your league ring, which all the Lagoon Pirates I know respect, to bring the goleta away from the stronghold, and for the treasure she held I would set you free,” ‘** Boy, I’d do it at once if I could; but the go- leta is not there, and I hegin to feel asdid Felice, and you do, that Ravel has run off with her, so to get that treasure you will have to run her down and capture Ravel as you did me.” ‘‘ Well, have you any proposition to make to me for your escape?” ‘Can you arrange it?” iid Yes ” ‘* Well, I have a belt of precious stones around my waist, and I will divide them with you if you set me free,” ; **Let me see them.” “Some one may come in,” ‘*No, the captain is asleep in the ward-room, and I left orders for no one to enter the cabin, pretending he was here.” ** Well, I will show you the gems,” and he took off the belt, and revealed in different compart- meuts, rubies, emeralds, diamonds and other precious stones, as also some Mexican and Ameri- can bank-notes stowed away there, “* Here is a fortune, lad, fully forty thousand dollars, and I'll give you half of it if you will set me free,” ‘Divide it now, and give me my half, and ’'ll set you free,” “Can I trust you?” ‘© Yes, because I do not intend Captain Dare shall hang his brother,” was the response, CHAPTER LXIIL THE OTHER MOTIVE. “ Boy, Ido not know that I can trust you,” said Lamonte, looking greedily at his riches, and then thinking of the fate before him, “Don’t do it, then,” “Til cive youa fifth of my wealth, and pay you now,” ‘‘ Divide even or hang.” ‘Tt you will tell me that you come from Ca tain Dare, who does vot wish to be known in this matter, I will do it.” “71 not tell you 50,” ** But you do, “T do not,” ** Will you swear it?” ‘Yes, but the idea of a pirate asking for an oath,” and the youth laughed, i ‘*He knows nothing of your wish to set me free for money?” ‘See here, Captain Lamonte, do you think Captain Dare would sell his brother’s escape from the gallows?” “No, it would not be liks him.” “ He is rich, for he has won a fortune with his sword, and if he were a poor man, he would never sell his brother’s lite, be the sum enor- mous.” **T believe you, and now see that he wishes you to belp me tq escape, and that you will make capital out of it for yourself,” ‘No, Captain Dare knows notbing of my plot to aid you to escape, nor would he do 80 him- self, for duty is paramount with him to all things. ‘‘T wish to have you escape, and will help you to do so, and I wish you to pay me half the riches you have in that belt, and that leaves you asnug sum besides. “ Now will you co it?” “ Yes.” ‘* Give it to me.” The pirate obeyed, but it was very evident that he parted with his gems with the greatest reluctance. hodveeg Clover had them in his hands, Lamonte asked: “Now will you deceive me after all?” “Had I intended to do that I would have driven a closer bargain,” Ag ha you pledge yourself to help me es- pe **T do; but now let me tell you another mo- tive I have.” “ Well, out with it.” **T don’t wish to see my brother hanged.” “ Your brother?” “ Yes.” **T your brother?” “Well, we'll call it balf-brother, for your father married my mother.” ‘* By Heaven, but I know you now—you are Mark Cloverfield, the little son of the widow whom my father married.” “Yes, and you are Montague Lamond, my Pe pene of whom [am not in the least proud, “ Well, boy, this is a surprise indeed.” “TI knew you all the time, Captain Lamonte, but saw you did not know the little lad you 80
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30 ———— — shamefully maltreated, you and your father, until I was forced to run away from home. ““f have written to my mother and sisters, but no response has come; I now wish to learn from you where they are, and how they are.” “T do not know; but I do know that my fathe: got an inberitance which your mother never dream=d was to he hers, This fortune he sunk in speculation and then shot himself.” ‘That was pr per, very proper indeed, just what I wish be hod done before he crossed my mother’s path to wreck her life; but he left her poor of course?” “ Certainly, for if he had had any money he would never have committed suicide,” **Now I had an idea that my mother and sis- ters were poor, and so I made you, who helped to squander what was theirs, hand over tbe riches I now hold. “Bat [will keep my word with you and let you go, brother Montague, though, as you will be hanged in the end, better have it over with now,’ “* Boy, you are Satan’s own cub!” hissed the incensed Rover. “Thank you! But keep your eyes and ears open and be ready, for the first chance I get you shall go free, as [ promised, The opportunity probably will come when we reach an anchor- age.” Clover carefully stowed away bis riches, and left the cabin, to be soon after joined by Cecil. **My poor boy, what bave I not heard? And you, too, were a sufferer through my father and half-brother? It was your poor mother whom my father married as his third wife. “Well, we are brothers in misfortune, Clover if not in kinsbip. The past will be buried, I hope, while we will look up those dear to you and see that they suffer no more,” ** And did I do right to pledge myself to help him to escape, Captain Dare?” “Yes, you did right, [ cannot be the executer of my brother, be be ever so vile” “*] will say nothing, do nothing, know noth- ing, and leave it all to you, for I know that you ean carry out what you undertake. “Tf it is a mistake, he will some day meet his just doom at the yard-arm, but it will not be my hand that places the noose about his neck, not my voice that seals bis doom iu giving the fatal order,” and Captain Dare, deeply impressed with what be had heard, and all that be now knew, turned away, while Clover muttered: ** Yes, we will find my dear mother. Whata noble protector he will be to her! How proud she will be of her new son!” ‘ CHAPTER LXIV. THE BRIG MEETS HER MATCH, THE ee followed thick and with a high wind, and in spite of the close lookout kept upon both the schooner and the goleta, they be- came separated. When the morning dawned the schooner was not visible from the deck ofthe goleta, and soon after land arose ahead. “Jt is the hacienda; but the schooner cannot certainly have arrived ahead of us,” said Lieu- tenant Orville to a midshipman who was acting as first officer. ‘*No, sir, she doubtless held back for us, while you know we crowded on canvas to cut through the big waves,” answered the middy. “Ves, and so Cy oa her far astern. ‘* Well, she will be along during the day, and now to run in to an anchorage and rejoice the heart of Don Ramon with the return of his yacht,” and Lieutenant Orville held on into the pass, answering the shot from the fort by run- ning up the United States flag. But the Don knew that his yacht had been taken by Lamonte, and he threw a solid shot over the decks of the goleta. She at once came to, and a boat put off, with the middy in it, and the situation was reported, a the goleta again stood in and dropped an- chor. The Don and Rachel came off ir a boat, and the whole story was told by Lieutenant Orville, of the going to New Orleans, the chase and cap- ture of the Sea Arrow. The Don then knew that it was not Cecil Dare, but captain Almo Urbana who was the guilty one. As they sat on the piazza looking seaward, later in the afternoon, a vessel appeared in sight, coming frum seaward, It was the schooner, and while rejoicing at her coming, another vessel shot into view head- ing up the coast, ‘It is Urbana’s brig,” eried the Don, The brig had already sighted the schooner, and her drums were heard calling the men to quarters, while she lay to, awaiting the approach of the Sea Soldier. ‘ But: the Sea Soldier at once lay to, also, ** What does that mean?” asked the Don, “Captain Dare wishes to fight further off shore, sir, s0.as not to endanger the bacienda by the fire,” replied Orville. “Yes, but will he dare fight the brig?” The Red Flag Rover. ‘Yes, sir, for the brig, though flying the Mexican flag, seems to have challenged him, and he will see what she means.” The brig now moved toward ‘the schooner, and soon opened fire from her bow gun. The schooner did not reply, but the brig Inffed and fired a broadside, Hardly bad ske done so when the schooner got | under way, stripped to fighting-trim, and slowly her guns opened fire, There was no hurry, all was deliberation, and every shot told. At the peak was her flag, and, why a vessel flying the Mexican colors should fire on him, Captain Dare did not know, the two countries | being at peace. He did not wait longer, how- ever, than to see she was in deadly earnest in the attack. The fire of the brig was wild, that of the schooner perfect, coming nearer and nearer and firing with a deliberation that was remarkable, and an aim that was terribly true. The Mexican’s topmasts were soon shot away, his bulwarks shattered, two guns dismounted, and the deck was strewn with the dead and dying. vAnd all this could be seen from the piazza of the hacienda, where Rackel, pale but calm, bided the end. Then the schooner poured in a broadside and the bowspirit of the brig was shot away, and she broached to, At the same moment, as the schooner began to bear down for closer quarters, a boat, bear- ing a white flag, put off from the brig and rowed toward the schooner: Instantly the firing of the Sea Soldier ceased, and as the boat drew near, an officer hailed in English: ‘* Ahoy! Is that an American schooner?” * Ay, ay, sir, the Sea Soldier, United States schooner-of-war, ‘* What brig is that?” “‘ The Relentless, Captain Urbana. There has been a sad mistake which I wish to explain.” ** Ay, ay, sir! Come aboard.” ; The Mexican officer soon boarded, and ap- proaching Cecil Dare said with marked regret: ‘Tt is exceedingly unfortunate, sir, but we heard of the capture of your vessel by Lamonte, the Pirate, and supposed we were firing upon him, he raising your flag as a lure. ‘* Captain Urbana regrets the mistake ex- ceedingly.” ‘* Yes, he has cause to, far more than I have; but, under the circumstances, sir, I can only accept his apology with a demand that he lays at anchor as I pass and salutes my flag with twenty-one guns,” ‘“‘ He will refuse to do this, sir, it having been a mistake.” “Very well, sir. Say to Captain Urbana that five minutes after you return I shall open fire and fight it cut, claiming bis vessel as a rize for his blunder, and in my action my overnment will support me.” Tbe Mexican officer bowed and retired, and his return to his boat was eagerly watched. Five minutes after, asthe schooner got under way to renew the fight, the Stars and Stripes were run up over the brig, and as the Sea Soldier drew near, one by one ber unshotted guns belched forth a salute, The schooner’s flag was dipped three times as she sailed by, heading for the Hacienda Harbor, while the brig having temporarily repaired damages, sailed away, while Clover remarked: “That was no mistake, Captain Dare, but done on purpose.” ‘* Very true, Clover,” ‘* When he saw that you were going to whip him be crawled out of a bad scrape the best way he could,” continued Clover. ‘Such is my ppinion, Clover; but yonder goes the brig, as though anxious to leave our company.” Yes, sir, he. doubtless is; but there lies the goleta in the Hacienda Harbor,” ‘‘T am glad or that; but you must not forget, Clover, that you have some special work to do while we are here,” ‘* Pll not forget it, sir,” was the reply of the youth, and he went down into the cabin, to put the prisoner in irons, he said. CHAPTER LXV. A PROMISE KEPT, THE pirate captain sat in the cabin with an expression of hope upon his face. He began to feel certain that neither Cecil Dare or Clover would let him be banged, The fight between the brig and the schooner he wondered at, until be heard the explanation, and then be saw as the schooner sailed by that the Mexican had been badly Ay tag so had eotee out of a bad scrape the best way pos- sible, The Jad found Lamonte really quite cheerful, and be said to him: * We will drop anchor within a quarter of an hour.” “ Yes ” “T will put these irons upon you, but give you the key, and you be on the alert as soon as it is dark.” “*T will.” “Tt is coming on to rain, so the night will be dark, and the watch not particularly wide awake.” ‘**T understand.” 4 te a good mariner, as I know.” ‘Yes, ‘* When you hear the hootof an’ow] in-shore, then free yourself, take the lariat hangiag yom der, and lower yourself from the stern ports. ‘“Tne hooting of the owl will be your guide, and when you land I will meet you. “T will have one of the Don’ssmall sail boats ready for you, with provisions and all, and the oars muffled so that you can row out past the guard in the fort.” ‘*T understand you.” ; **Once out in open water you will know which way to go.” ‘* To my stronghold, of course.” The boy laughed, and the man asked with a show of anger: ‘* 'W bat amuses you, boy?” “*You will have just escaped from hanging, will you not?” “ce Yes, »” “Well, then, I advise you not to go there.” “Why?” ‘This vessel will sail there, Jeaving at dawn.” ‘*She can never find the stronghold,” “You forget that I know the way.” **'You! yes, traitor, you will—” “* Now, don’t get angry, for after all you fare very well in not being hanged, and I am giving you a hint to further keep your head out of a noose.” ** Then [ shall not go there.” ‘You are wise, Ceptain Lamonte; but now I a leave you, for you know just what to 0. “Vea,” Clover now put the irons on the prisoner, re- marking as he did so: ** You better drop the irons overboard, so that they will think you jumped overboard with them all, preferring to die by drowning than by hanging.” ‘* What do I care what is thought?” ‘* Well, not to get me into trouble, do so.” “All right.” ‘**T don’t believe you will.” ‘* Yes, for 1 haveno ill-will against you, boy.” Clover said no more and went on deck, to find the fort saluting the schooner, which responded promptly gun for gun. Dropping anchor near the pirate prize, Cecil Dare met at the gangway the Don, Racheland Lieutenant Orville, who gave him the warmest of welcomes. Then Clover was presented and the party adjourned to tbe shore, wbere Clover amused himself by looking at the little fort. He noted the position of the Don’s boat, select- ing 2 pretty little craft of five tons, sloop-rigged, and then he boarded the schooner again, and, under plea of taking the captain’s luggage ashore, took with it a very generous supply of provisions for the prisoner. It was dark when he reached the shore and the prisoners were placed in the boat, and the luggage taken into the hacienda according to the Don’s orders, Then the lad went back to the little boat, got the anchor up and muffling the oars rowed her tg to the point of land opposite to the little ort. It was raining now quite hard, and out of the darkness came the loud hoot of anowl], It was repeated a dozen times, until suddenly out of the water aroge a human form, “True as steel, boy; let me grasp your hand.” ‘*No, Lamonte, keep off, for I know you, and know that for what you gave me to-day you would kill me to-night. ‘*There is your boat, and in it is a lantern with provisions to last you a week, and dry clotbing. ‘*Get into it and be off,” ‘*But IT have no weapon with which to defend myself.” “There are weapons also in the boat, with ammunition, too; but I did not luad them—for reasons.” ‘*Give me one of your pistols.” ‘*Not I, and keep eff, for I would shoot you like a dog if you attempted my life now. ** Go, I say.” The pirate uttered a curse; gazed earnestly about him, walked back into the water and got into the boat. Then, without a word, he rowed away, and Clover bad a tramp of a mile around the shore back to the hacienda. “* Well?’ said Cecil Dare. ‘© He bas gone,” But when the ‘midnight watch was’ set an alarm was sounded on the schooner, for a search proved that Lamonte bad escaped. Yes, escaped, but to go to his death, for he slipped out of the stern port with his heavy irons on,” said the officer of the deck. And so it was written down in the schooner’s log.
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a CHAPTER LXVL GONCLUSION, Tue Sea Soldier lay at the Hacienda Harbor for several days, and then one day Clover re- minded Cecil Dare that bis pledge to Felice, the pirate’s daughter, was at an end. So the schooner sailed for the lagoon, and witb Clover as pilot, entered the intricate net- work of waters, and one night dropped anchor in the lake, to begin action at dawn. But when the dawn came not a human being was in sight, and the crew landing in force found ibat the stronghold had been Hastily deserted. The Pirate Queen and her people had fled, and Clover and Cecil Dare at once decided that La- monte, in spite of what the lad had said to urge him against it, had gone there and given the alarm. Certain it was that all were gone and much lunder remained, with the guns in the fort and alf a dozen small craft. All fell as a prize to the schooner, which head- ed for New Orleans with the little fleet in tow, the yacht being given back to ber lawful owner | the Dov. The booty taken on board the Sea Arrow was also valuable, so that if the goleta, with its trea- sure, had been lost, the crew by no means fared badly as regards their share of prize money. Arriving at New Orleans Cecil Dare found orders calling him North; at which he departed, accompanied by Clover, who at once went io search of bis mother and sisters, The lad found them after a short search and the joy of the runaway’s return was more than pen can express. There, a month after, the lad welcomed Cecil Dare, and Mrs. Lamond at once adopted the handsome young officer as her son. Some months later Cecil Dare had orders send- ing him again to the Gulf te engage in pirate- hunting, and he had the satisfaction of feeling that when he again returned to his native land he would bring the beautiful Rachel Ravera as his wife, Bu: the young op bee did not go alone on his southern trip, for Clover accompanied him, not, however, as Clover, the Runaway, but as Mid- shipman Mark Cloverfield, for the report which Captain Dare had made of the Jad’s services bad gained for him a middy’s berth in the United States Navy. _ When the Sea Soldier again went pirate-hunt- ing, Cecil Dare decided that his first duty should be to run down the famous Mexican buccaneer, who, once an houored officer and known as Almo Urbana, had hoisted the black flag as a,rover of the Gulf, THE END. Beadle's Dime Library, BY WILLIAM R. EYSTER, 145 Pistol Pards; or, The Silent.Sport from Cinnabar, 160 Soft Hand, Sharp;, or, Th> Man with the Sand, 182 Hands Up; or, Thé Knights of the Canyon. 192 The ae Sport. 214 The Two Cool Sports; or, Gertie of the Gulch. 229 Captain Cutsieeve; or, The Little Sport. 268 Magic Mike, the Man of Frills. 300 A Sport in Spectacles; or, Bad Time at Bunco, 833 Derringer Dick. the Man with the Drop. 844 Double Shot Dave of the Left Hand. é Tbr e Handsome Sports; or, The Combination. 875 Royal George, the Taree in One. 896 The Piper Detective; or, The Gilt Ed 402 Snapshot Sam; or, The Angels’ Flat 429 Hair trigner Tom of Red Bend. 459 Major Sunshine, the Man of Three Lives, 478 Pinnacle Pete; or, The Fool from Way Back. 508 The Dude from Denver. 525 Fresh Frank, the Derringer Daisy. 533 Oregon, the Sport With a Scar. 549 Belshazzar Brick, the Bailiff of Blue Blazes. 558 Hurrah Harry, the High Horse from Halcyon. 568 The Dude Detective. 878 Seven Shot Steve, the Sport with a Smile. 590 Gentle Jack, the High Roller from Humbug. 603 Desert Alf, the Man With the Cougar. Gang. cet. BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID. 8 The Headless Horseman, 32 The Death-Sot; or, Tracked to Death, 55 The Scalp Hunters. A Romance of the Plains, 66 The Specter Barque. A Tale of the Pacific, 74 The Captain of the Rifles; or, The Lake Queen. 200 The Rifle Rangers; or. Adventures in Mexico, 208 The White Chief. A Romance of Mexico. 213 The War Trail: or, The Hunc of the Wild Horse, “21: The Wild Huntress; or, The Squatter. 228 The Maroon. A Tale of Voodoo and Obeah. po The Hunter’s Feast. The White Squaw, BY ANTHONY P. MORRIS, 5 The Fire Fiends; or, Hercules. Hunchback. $5 Azhort, the Axman; or, The Palace Secrets, a 100 The French Spy; or, The Bride of Paris. 167 The Man of Steel. Tale of Love and Terror, 485 Man Spider; or. The Beautiful Sphinx. 238 Hank Hound, the Crescent City Detective. . om The Masked Mystery: or, The Black Crescent, ae Electro Pete, the Man of Fire. 4) 2 806 The Roughs of Richmond. $13 Mark Magic, Detective. 334 The Giphne Detective. Head Hunter; or, Mark Magic in the Mine. ons, Detective. The Red Flag Rover. | BY J. C. COWDRICK. 890 The Giant Cupid: or Cibuta John’s Jubilee. 422 Blue Grass Burt, the Gold Star Detective. | 436 Kentucky Jean, the = tag from Yellow Pise. | 452 Rainbow Rob, the Tulip from Texas. _ 473 Gilbert of Gotham, the Steel-arm Detective. 499 Twilight Charlie, the Road Sport. 519 Old Riddles, the Rocky Ranger | 557 The Mountain Graybeards; or, Riddles’ Riddle. | | 565 Prince Paul, the Postman Detective. | 580 Shadowing a Shadow. 591 Duke Daniels, the Society Detective. | 598 The Dominie Detective. BY CAPTAIN MARK WILTON. 176 Lady Jaguar, the Robber Queen. 194 Don Sombrero. the California Road Gent. 202 Cactus Jack, the Giant Guide. aor 219 The Scorpion Brothers; or, Mad Tom’s Mission, 223 Canyon Dave, the Man of the Mountain. 227 Bockanwe Ben, thé Man-Hunter of Idaho. | 237 Long-Haired Max; or, The Black League. | 245 Barranea Bil, the Revolver Champion 258 Bullet Head, the Colorado Bravo. 263 lron-Armed Abe, the Hunchback Destroyer. 266 Leopard Luke, the King of Horse-Thieves. 271 Stonefist, of Big Nugget Bend, : | 276 Texas Chick, the Southwest Detective, } 285 Liehtning Bolt, the Canyon Terror. 291 Horseshoe Hank, the Man of Big Luck. | 805 Silver-Plated Sol, the Montana Rover. | 811 Heavy Hand; or, The Marked Men. | 323 Hotspur Hugh; or, The Banded Brothers. ‘BY SAM S. HALL—“* Buckskin Sam.” 8 Kit Carson, Jr., the Crack Shot, 90 Wild Will, the Mad Ranchero. | 178 Dark Dashwood, the Desperate. | 186 The Black Bravo; or, The Tonkaway’s Triumph, | 191 The Terrible Tonkaway; or, Old Rocky’s Pards. | 199 Diamond Dick, the Dandy from Denver. | 204 Big Foot Wallace, the King of the Lariat. 212 The Brazos Tigers; or, Ube Minute Men. 217 The Serpent of El Paso; or, Frontier Frank. 221 Desperate Duke, the Guadaloupe ** Galoot.” | 225 Rocky Mountain Al; or, The Waif of the Range. | 289 The Terrible Trio; or, The Angel of the Army. | 244 Merciless Mart, the Man Tiger of Missouri. 250 The Rough Riders; or, Sharp Eye, the Scourge. | 256 Double Dan, the Dastard; or, The Pirates. | 264 The Crooked Three. 269 The Bayou Bravo; or, The Terrible Trail. 273 Mountain Mose, the Gorge Outlaw. 282 The Merciless Marauders; or, Carl’s Revenge. | 287 Dandy Dave and his Horse, White Stocking. 298 Stampede Steve: or, The Doom of the Double. 301 Bowlder Bill; or, The Man from Taos. | 809 Raybold, the Rattling Ranger. 322 The Crimson Coyotes; or, Nita, the Nemesis 228 King Kent; or, The Bandits of the Bason. | 342 Blanco Bill, the Mustang Monarch. | 858 The Prince of Pan Out. 871 Gold Buttons; or, The Up Range Pards 18 Pathaway; or, Nick Whiffies, the old Nor’west til eg 17 Nightshade; or, The Robber Prince. 22 Whitelaw; or, Nattie of the Lake Shore, 37 Hirl, — Hunchback; or, The Santee Sword- maker, 58 Silver Knife; or. The Rocky Mountain Ranger. 70 Hydrabad, the Strangler. 73 The Knights of the Red Cross; or, The Granada Magician. 163 Ben Brion; or, Redpath, the Avenger. BY MAJOR DANGERFIELD BURR. 92 Buffalo Bill, the Buckskin King. 117 Dashing Dandy; or, The Hotspur of the Hills, 142 Captain Crimson, the Man of the Iron Face. 156 Velvet Face, the ‘Border Bravo, 175 Wild Bill’s Trump Card; or, The Indian Heiress, 185 The Phantom Mazeppa; or, The Hyena, 448 Hark Kenton, the BY DR. NOEL DUNBAR. 500 The True-Heart Pards, 604 The Detective in Rags; or, The Grim Shadower. BY LIEUT. A. K. SIMS. 528 Huckleberry, the Foot-Hills Detective. 552. Prince Primrose, the Flower of the Flock, aitor. BY MAJOR DANIEL BOONE DUMONT. 883 Silver Sam, the Detective. 889 Colonel Double-Edge, the Cattle Baron’s Pard, 411 The White Crook; or, Old Hark’s Fortress, 420 The Old River Sport; or, A Man of Honor, 439 Salamander Sam. 454 The Night Raider. 464 Sandycraw, the Man of Grit. 508 Topnotch Tom, the Mad Person. 573 The Witch of Shasta; or, The Man of Cheek. BY COLONEL DELLE SARA, 58 Silver Sana; or, The Mystery of Decdwood City, The Scarlet Captain; or, Prisoner of the Tower, Shamus O’Brien, the Bould Boy of Glingal. | g7 106 BY LEON LEWES, 428 The Flying Glim; or, The Island Lure, | 511 Paint Pete, the Prairie Patrol. BY DR. J. H. ROBINSON. 456 The Demon Steer.. 481 The Silent Detective; or. The Bogus Neph¢ 484 Captain Ready, the Red Ransomer, BY GUSTAVE AIMARD. 15 The Tiger Slayer; or, Earle Heart to the Rescue. | 19 Red Cedar. the Prairie Outlaw. 20 The Bandit at Bay; or, The Prairie Pirates. 21 The Sh nae Daughter; or, The Outlaw’s Fate. 24 Prairie Flower. 6% Lova! Heart; or, The Trappers ef Arkansas. 149 The Border Rifles. A Tale of the Texan War. 151 The Freebooters, A Story of the Texan War, 153 The White Scalper. 195 The Lone Star Gambler; or, Magnolia’s Maid. 31 { BY NEWTON M, CURTISS. ; 120 The Texan Spy; or, The Prairie Guide. | 254 Giant Jake, the Patrol of the Mountain, BY FRANCES JOHNSON. 25 The Gold Guide; or, Steel Arm, Regulator. 26 The Death Track; or, The Mountain Outlaws, 28 Alapaha the Squaw; or, The Border Renegades 124 Assowaum the Avenger; or, The Doom of the } Destroyer. 185 The Bush Ranger: or. The Helf-Breed Pajah. 136 The Outlaw Hunter; or, The Bush Ranger. | 188 The Border Bandit! or, The Horse Thief’s Trail. BY C. DUNNING CLARK, | 164 The King’s Fool. | 183 Gilbert the Guide, BY COL. THOMAS H. MONSTERY. : / | §&2 Iron Wrist, the Swordmaster. 126 The Demon Duelist; or, The League of Steel. | 143 The Czar’s Spy; or, The Nihilist League | 350 El Rubio Bravo, King of the Swordsmen. | 157 Mourad, the Mameluke; or, The Three Sword masters. 169 Corporal Cannon, the Man of Forty Duels | 236 Champion Sam; or, The Monarehsof the Show, | 262 Fighting Tom. the Terror of the Toughs. | $382 Spring-Heel Jack; or, The Masked Mystery. | | BY ISAAC HAWKS, Ex-Detective. - 232 Orson Oxx; or, The River Mystery. 240 A Cool Head: or, Orson Oxx in Peril. BY NED BUNTLINE. 14 Thayendanegea,the Scourge; or, The War-Eagle, 16 The White Wizard; or, The Seminole Prophet, 18 The Sea Bandit; or, The Queen of the Isle. | 23 The Red Warrior; or, The Comanche Lover, | 61 Captain Seawaif, the Privat-er. | 111 The Smuggier Captain; or, The Skipper’s Crime, | 122 Saul Sabberday, the Idiot ee 4 | 270 Andros, the Rover; or, The Pirate’s Daughter, | 861 Tombstone Dick, the Train Pilot 517 Buffalo Bill’s First Trail. | 584 Fire Feather, the Buccaneer King. | | BY E. 4. ST. MOX. } | 471 The Heart of Oak Detective. 491 Zigzag and Cutt, the Invincible Detectives. BY EDWARD WILLETT. | / | | | 274 Flush Fred, the Mississippi Sport. 989 Flush Fred’s Full Hand. E 298 L-gger Lem; or, Life in the Pine Woods, 308 Hemlock Hank, Tough and True. 315 Flush Fred’s Double; or, The Squatters’ League... 827 Terrapin Dick, the Wildwood Detective. 337 Old Gabe, the Mountain Tramp. 348 Dan Dillon, King of Crosscut. : 368 The Canyon King; or. a Price on his Head, 483 Flush Fred, the River Sharp. BY PROF. 5. H. INGRAHAM. 113 The Sea Slipper; or, The Freebooters. 118 The Burglar Captain; or. The Fallen Star | 314 Lafitte; or, The Pirate of the Gulf. 816 Lafitte’s Lieutenant; or, Child of the Sea. BY PERCY B. ST. JOHN. | 57 The Silent Hunter. & The Big Hunter; or, The Queen of the Woods. BY WM. G. PATTEN. 545 Hustler Harry, the Cowboy Sport. 571 Old Dismal, the Range Detective. 602 Captain Nameless, the Mountain Mystery. MISCELLANEOUS. 6 Wildcat Bob. By Edward L. Wheeler. 9 Handy Andy. By Samuel Lover. 10 Vidoeg, the French Police Spy, By himself. 11 Midshipman Easy. By Captain Marryatt. — 82 B’hoys of Yale: or, The Scrapes of Collegians, 60 Wide Awake, the Robber King. Py F. Dumont, 68 The Fighting Trapper. By Capt. J. F.C. Adams, 76 The Queen’s Musketeers. By George Albany. 78 The Mysterious Spy. By Arthur M. Grainger. 102 The Masked Band. By George L. Aiken. 110 The Silent Rifleman. By H.W. Herbert. 125 The Blacksmith Outlaw. By H. Ainsworth, 133 Rody the Rover. By William Careton. 140 The Three Spaniards. By Geo. Walker. 144 The Hunchback of Notre Dame. By Victor Hugo. 146 The Doctor Detective. By George Lemuel. 152 Captain Ironnerve, the Counterfeiter Chief. 158 The Doomed Dozen. By Dr. Frank Powell. 166 Owlet, the Robber Prince. By 8. R. Urban. * 179 Conrad, the Convict. By Prof. Gildersleeve, 190 The Three Guardsmen. By Alexander Dumas. 261 Black Sam, the Prairie Thunderbolt. By Col, Jo Yards. 275 The Smuggler Cutter. By J. D. map, 312 Kinkfoot Karl, the Mountain Scourge. By Mor- ris Redwing. 850 Flash Falcon, Society Detective. By W. J. Cobb. 853 Bart Brennan: or, The King of Straight Flush, By John Cuthbert. ; 366 The Telegraph Detective. By George H. Morse. 410 Sarah Brown, Detective. By K. F. Hill. 518 ba) Richard, the Thoroughbred. By J. W. sbon. 534 Green Mountain Joe: or, The Counterfeiter’e Cave. By Marmaduke Dey. ; 542 The Ocean Drift; or, Lhe Fight for Two Lives, By A. F. Holt. 566 The Dauntless Detective: or, The Daughter Avenger. By Tom W King. A new issue every Wedneedry. Beadle’s Dime Library is for sale by_al! Newsdealers, te. cents per copy, or sett by mail op receipt of twelve cents each. BEADLE & ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.
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979 Buffalo Bill's Relentless Trail... By Prentiss Ingraham. 973 The Dread Shot Four; or, My Pards of the | 516 ; Plains. By Col. W. F.. Cody, 964 Buffalo Bull's Invincibles; or, ‘The Sable Shad-! ower’s Sublime Sacrifice. By Col. P. 1am. 960 Buffalo Bill's Plue Belt Brigade; or, Suh- flower Sam of Shasta. By Col. P. Ingraham. Ingra- 956 Buffalo Bill’s Volunteer Vigilantes; or, The} Mysterious Man in Blue. By Col. P. ham, 950 Buffalo Bill at Bay; or, Docm., By Col. P. Ingraham, Ingra- ) 043 Buffalo Bill’s Block Game; or, The Mounted | Miriers of the Overland. By Col. P. ham. 036 Buffalo Bill’s Black. Pard; or, Boomers of the Big Hern. By’ Col. P. Ingra- ham. 927 Buffalo Bill's. Bluff; ‘or,. Dusky Dick, the Sport. By Col. P. Ingraham. $21 Buffalo Bill's. Quandary; or, Yow. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. $15 Buffalo Bill and the Surgeon Scout: or, Go- wan-go, the Redskin Rider. By Col. Pi In- graham, Ingra- 909 Buffalo Bill’s League; or, Red Butterfly. By Col, .Prentiss Ingraham. 904 Buffalo Bill's Tangled Trail; or, Jack, the Man of Many Masks, Ingraham. Gentleman By Cok P. 900 Buffalo Bill's Rough Riders; or, Texas Jack’s Sharp-Shooters. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. 895 Buffalo Bill’s Secret Ally; or, Double. *.By -Col, Prentiss Ingraham. 880 Buffalo Bill's Life-Stake; Three. By Col. P. Ingraham. 882 The Three Bills; Buffalo Bill, Wild Bill and Band-Box Bilt; or, The Bravo in Broadcloth. By Col. P. Ingraham. } 874 Buffalo Bill’s Buckskin Braves; or, The Card} Queen’s Last Game. By Col. P. Ingraham. 869 Buffalo Bill’s Road Agent Round-Up; or, The By Col. Mysterious Masked Man in Black. P. Ingraham. 863 Buffalo Bill's Death-Charm; or, With the Sear. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 857 Buffalo’ Bill’s Royal Flush; or, The Pony Ri- Prentiss Ingra- der’s Death-Run. By Col. ham, { 851 Buffalo Bill's Double Dilemma; or, The Great Scout’s Big Three. By Col. P. Ingraham. Death Shot. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Proxy. By Buffalo Bill 830 Band’s Blot-out. By Col, P. Ingraham. ‘Seout to the Rescue. By Col. P-. Ingraham. Gold King. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. er 000000000 000000000 000000000 0000000080 Colonel | 820 The Gold Seeker's The Gold! ,. Velvet Bili’s The Texan’s or, The Pledged The Man 845 Buffalo Bill's Redskin Ruse; or, Texas Jack’s 889. The Ranch King Dead-Shot; or, Texas Jack's uffalo Bill’s Boys in Blue; or, The Brimstone 896 Buffalo Bill's Sharp-Shooters; or, The Surgeon 667 Buffalo Bill's Swoop; or, 822 Buffalo Bill's’ Best Bower; or, Montebello the| 658 The Cowboy Clan; or, The Tigress of Texas, y Hunt; or, The Miner| 653 By Buffalo Bill. Bill's Red Trail; or, The Road-Rider | 649 iegade’s\Run Down. By Col. P. Ingraham. | fialo Bill’s Death-Knell; or, The Red Hand) 644 Beaver’s Still Marauder's Death-Track, White Purffalo Rider's of the Rockies, By Col. b>. Ingraham. Wild Bil, the With Wes! Dueli-t; «r, The Girl) 639 Mascot 6f Moonlight Maine.. by 2ut.aio Bill, ; Wild Bill, the Wild West Duelist; or, The Girl | 629 }Jrande Ralph, the Cowboy Chief. By/ Buf-)| falo Bill. 599 tuffalo Bill's Winning Hand; or, The Masked} Woman of the Colorado Canyon. By Col P.| 517 Ingraham. Baffalo Bill's Dead Shot; or, The Skeleton Scout of the Colorado. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 3uffalo Bfl’s Brand; or, The srimstone | 401 Brotherhood. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Buffalo Bill's Spy-Shadower; or, The Masked} 207 Men at Grand Canyon. By Col. P. Ingraham. |“ : Buffalo Bill's Ban; or, Cody to the Rescue. | 994 By Leon Lewis. . , Buffalo Bill’s Sweepstake; or, The Wipe-out at Last Chance. By. Col. Prentiss Ingraham. | g¢go Buffalo Bill's Dozen; or, Silk Ribbon Sam. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 229 3uffalo Bill’s Mascot; or, The Death Valley Victim No. 18. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. | 319 Buffalo Bill’s Double; or, The Desperado De- tective. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 204 Ruffalo Bill's Big Four; or, Custe’s Shadow, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 243 Buffalo Biil’s Flush Hand; or, Texas Jack’s 3ravos. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Buffalo Bill's Blind; or, The Masked Driver 189 of Death’s Canyon. By Col. Prentiss Ingra- ham. 175 The Buffalo Bill and His Merry Men; or, Robin Hood Rivals, By Col. Prentiss Ingra-| 168 ham, Ruffalo Bill’s Beagles; or, Silk Lasso Sam./ 158 By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Buffalo Bill’s Body Guard; or, The Still Hunt 117 of the Hills. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Buffalo Bill on the War Path; or, Silk Lasso Sam, the Will-o’-the-Wisp. By Col. P, In- graham. Buffalo Bill’s Scout Shadqwers;: or, Emer-/ 83 ald Ed of Devil’s Acre. By Col. P. Ingraham. Buffalo Bill Baffled; or, The Deserter Des-| 52 perado’s Defiance. By Col. P. Ingraham. Buffalo Bill's Buckskin Brotherhood; or, Opening Up a Lost Trail. By Col. P. In- graham, Buffalo Bill’s Blind Trail; or, The Daughter of the Regiment. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Buffalo Bill’s Secret Service Trail. By Major Dangerfield Burr. the King of the Mines. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. By Colonel Prentiss In am. HE DIME LIBRARY 1s for sale by all Newsdealers, ten cents per copy, or sent by mail, pre-paid, on re- ceipt of price. 982 Chris Crewley's Winning Hand; or, | |. Ten Cents a Copy, \ IM \ | LIDTary. \ The Lasso King’s League; or, The Tigers of Texas. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. Buck Taylor, the Saddle King. Buffalo Bill's Chief of Scouts. By Col, P. Ingraham. Buffalo Bill’s Bonanza;\or, The Knights of the Silver Circle. By Col. P. Ingraham. The Gold King: or, Montebello, the Magnifi- cent. By Buffalo Bill. Buffalo Bill's Daring Role; or, Daredeath Dick, King of the Cowboys, By Leon Lewis. The Dead Shot Nine: or, My Pardes of the Plains. By Buffalo Bill. Buffalo Bill's First ‘Trail; or, Will Cody, the Pony. Express Rider., By Ned Buntline, Red Renard, the Indian Detective; or, The Gold Buzzards of Colorado. By Buffalo .Bill. The One-Armed Pard; or, Red Retribution/in Borderland,. By Buffalo Bill. The Wizard Brothers; or, Trail, By Buffalo Bill, White Beaver, the.<xile of the Platte; or, A ABD at Man’s Red Trail. By Buffalo Bill. Buffalo Bill’s Grip; or, Oath-bound to Custer, By Col, Préntiss Ingrakam. Buffalo “Bill's Pledge; or, The League of Three.’ By Col, P. Ingraham: Wild Bill, the Whiriwind of the West. By Buffalo Bill, Texas Jack, the Prairie Rattler; or, The Queen of the Wild Riders, By Buffalo Bill, The Pilgrim Sharp; or, The Soldier's Sweet- heart. By Buffalo Bill, Government Scout and Guide. Wild Bill's’ Gold Trail; or, The Desperate Dozen. By Col. P. Ingraham. Wild Bill’s Trump Card; or, The Indian Heiress. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Wild Bill, the Pisto! Dead Shot; or, Dagger Don’s Double. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Buffalo Bill, Chief of Scouts; or, The Doomed Dozen. By Dr. Frank Powell. Buffalo Bill's Strange Pard; or, Dashing Dandy, the Hotspur of the Hills. By Major D. Burr. Buffalo Bill, the Buckskin King;, or, The ee ga of the West. By Major Dangerfield urr. Gold Bullet Sport; or, The Knights of the Overland. By Buffalo. Bill. Death Trailer, the Chief of Scouts; cr, Life os Love in a Frontier Fort. By Buffalo NEW ISSUES TO COME. White Beaver’s 981 The Gold Lace Sport; or, The Texan Sam- son’s Wide Swath. By Jos. B. Badger, Jr. The Rascally Valet’s Double Game. By A. P. Morris. 983.Kid Glove Kris, the ty By J, C. Cow- drick. Ready August 984 Buffalo Bill's Life Raffle; or, The Doomed Three. By Col. P. Ingraham. Ready Sept. 1. 060000000 009000000 |S S19 S19 sis S}s 9\s o/s s/s aa) NN NN eee