Beadle's Pocket Library (no. 103) (1885 12 30)
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periighted, 1885, by aie anp Apams, Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., as Second Claas Mail Matter. Dee, 30, 1885, Published Weekly by Beadl d Ad y q VIIL, Ba bale ios it ea ce eae Rage a —? Five’ Genie. No, 108, ma i] be prey iW il a i [ ee 7 ee = | BY Fw. LWHEELER. CINNAMON CHIP STRODE DOWN THE STREET, TWIRLING A GOLD HEADED CANE IN ONE HAND AND CARRYING A SMALL SACHEL IN THE OTHER, Of
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2 Chip, the Girl Sport. No. 4.—‘‘ Rosebud Rob” Novels. Chip, the Girl Sport; The Golden Idol of Mt. Rosa, A Tale of Northern Arizona. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF ‘‘ DEADWOOD DICK ” NOVELS, “‘ ROSE- BUD ROB” NOVELS, ETC., ETC, CHAPTER I. A GALA DAY AT BUMM@ZR’S BEND. PrrHars the reader of this romance will smile, when we announce the locale of the first scene at Bummer’s Bend. That such a place existed, and does yet exist, there can be no doubt, nor is there anything strange in the title, when in the catalogue of the names of Western towns, one can pick out such ig Spare titles as ‘‘Cut Throat Gulch,” ** Bill hompson’s Mouth,” and ‘Misery Center.” Northern Arizona, the climo! Bummer’s Bend the town. Nostling down at the base of a mighty moun- tain, among whose foot-hills many miners had scattered their cabins; a couple of hundred rude shanties there were, in addition to a small fort, a blacksmith-shop, a few stores, dance- hoses, saloons, and gambling-dens, Taken all in all, Bummer’s Bend was a “Joud” town, and being as it were the town of the wild, sparsely inhabited country in which it was located, it boasted of a “hefty” floating pooulation, and a fair tract of surrounding mining territory. Situated on the eastern side of the mountains, near a sharp bend in the towering rocky chain, it pleasantly faced a long level stretch of prairie to the east and south. These prairies stretched away, seemingly to the eastern horizon, and the only thing perceptible upon the bosom of the vast expanse, except its beautiful verdure, was the log fort and a few outbuildings, about a half a mile from the town. The fort numbered about fifty men, who were under the charge of an old army veteran, Gen- eral Howard by name, perhaps more out of re- spect for his past deeds of valor, than his present value in the field of active service, for he was now getting old, white-hairod, and gouty. Why this fort, in the extreme wilderness, was a question only the rulers at Washington could probably answer, as the surrounding territory was but little settled, and the town of Bummer’s Bend had been created sincs the advent of Uncle Sam’s men. The first discovery of gold in the mountains back of the present site of the town, had bean made by the soldiers, and by strict orders from the commandant, had been kept a secret for a period of several years, during which time General Howard and his men had enriched themselves in a moderate way. But secrets, like preserves, don’ not closely sealed, and this one, leaked out. be A soldier deserted, and bore’ into Nevada, and the result.was stampede of miners from ub: brought thei city of the 3 ery in,” and formed a little soc selves, to which any one ‘co had a fair podigree, a foe behavior, and an unlimited b which to furnish him or ‘herse. able raiment. 3! stopping a stage. cde planes there were, and thi was composed of the toiling miners wh at the pick and shovel from sunrise search of golden gifts. Sports and pastimes were amo ures of the classes who did not of he principal-diversions was ho: Just outside of the town upon rie, a mile track had been arrang and here many an exciting ri High purses were lost: and won, around, Bummer’s Bend was noted ‘ town.” } At the time of which we write, at cent date, the country adjacent to tl ness city was infested by bands of» dians, who hunted through the unset tions of the territory, and, in fact, held” portions as their own. They were co remnants of tribes, Cheyennes, Sioux,’ and Arapahoes predominating. 5 These rovers were widely feared, for, there was no declared hostility betw: and the whites, many butcheries we: trated by them, and ranine and plunde: ed to bo one of their chief objects. Few of the citizens of Bummer’s Bend cari venture alone into the depths of the moun’ or out upon the almost boundless prairiesy: miners genorally moved and worked in of ten or 2 dozen for fear of an attack, se bands of miners having been surprisd and b ered by these Red Bedouins. ae Ono of the leading chiefs of the Indians an old battle-scarred warrior of the Ap
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Chip, the Girl Sport. 3 pation, who boasted of having in his day raised over a thousand scalps, and whose name was Hoko-me-go-to, or the White Face, the latter ppellation having been given him on account ‘i the bleached appearance of his countenance, which was nearly as white as a Caucasian’s While Ay remainder of his body was brown and warthy. The White Face was much feared and hated by the miners, yet he had the freedom of the town. The reason of this was generally conceded to ibe because the people were afraid to drive him put, for he counted his savage horde of war- tors by hundreds, and did he choose, it was pstimated that he could clean out the little city pf the wilderness without half trying. » His warriors also were frequently seen in the wn, their mission being to cm bad whisky nexchange for skins or gold. On several occasions old White Face had taken apart in the races, mounted upon his jet-black steed, but the trotting and running stock of Bummer’s Bend was choice, and the chief of tthe Bedouins of the Plains had lost his gold. But on the opening day of our little romance, mother grand free-for-all race was to come off, ond the news sis ht crowds of people flocking to Bummer’s Bend—miners, trappers, ruffians and red-skins, all came in to see the sport, for it was to be an occasion of unusual interest. oing to match her superb - ekes for a thousand dollars, against the field. ' The Howards were acknowledged great people by the Bendites, and it had long been considered that beautiful but ce ged Miss Evelyn had the swiftest racer that had ever entered Arizona, » Early in the morning the town presented the appearance of a holiday, for the street was filled with people, and others were skimming over the prairie near the course in the bright sunlight of ithe beautiful September day. When the overland stage came rolling into town, drawn by its six prancing horses, it also discharged another cargo to add to the audience at the races. “ Among the passengers were several strangers, among whom was one who instantly attracted attention. » A young woman, not over eighteen years of ige, round and symmetrical of form, of the me- dium stature of women, strikingly handsome in face, and attired in male costume, from the small knee-boots of patent leather, breeches of fino whitish woolen, vest to match, ‘“‘b’iled” shirt, with collar and tie, and blazing diamond ipon the bosom, and jaunty velvet jacket, to a white woolen slouch hat upon the head. » Yes, a real woman, and a remarkably pretty one, too, for, in addition to an attractive form, her face boasted of rarely-chiseled features, cheeks of healthful tint, a mouth just large ¢nough: to be witching, relieved, as it was, by xosy lips and two rows of pearly teeth; eyes dark and dancing with mischievous expression, ‘and a pure, fair forehead, from which hair of a brown hue clustered in light curls close to her “Down the street strode this eccentric charac- ter, with a swaggering gait, after leaving the stage, twirling a gold-headed cane in one hand and carrying a small sachel in the other—down the street she went with the utmost independence manife:ted in her bearing, and many an eye followed her with an admiring and surprised expression. Armed with a pair of revolvers thrust in her belt was this new-comer, and probably capable of using them, if the case demanded. A tall, stalwart, buckskin-clad individual, with blonde hair and mustache, who stood upon the steps of the “hotel,” in company with anotker man, gazed at the girl dandy mgr go “By Poe she’s a clipper, Pete!” he said, enthusiastically, as he turned to his companion, who was a Chinaman—an almond-eyed, ccmi- cally flat-faced son of Confucius, with a fat, squatty form clad in breeches, and a semi- gown, with sandals upon his feet, and a slouch hat upon his head. ‘That girl is a character, in this wild ac Reh drama, and I'll bet she’s game, too. No galoot can pick on ber with im- punity, and Til bet high on it. Eh, what do you say, Pigtail?” “Me tinkee Captain Mayburn muchee right!” the Celestial replied, with an assenting i ““Muchee fine gal—berry muchee stylee, “Ha, ha! you're solid, there, Pi She’s what we'd call a stunner, down in the Black Hills country. Shouldn’t wonder if we'd seo her down to the races to-day, too. By the way, I opine we'd better saunter down that way.” And the two men, so rage f different in ap- pearance, strolled away toward the race-course, arm in arm. That they, too, were strangers in Bummer’s Bend was evident, for the citizens of the town gave them nearly as many curious glanccs as they did the girl dandy. Two men seemed to be particularly impressed with their appearance. The one a man of five-and-thirty, with a dusky complexion, black hair, eyes and mus- tache, and the careful dress of a city dandy; —the other a swarthy-skinned, scarred-faced fellow, clad in greasy buckskin—evidently a half-breed, judging by the cast of countenance, = wild tigerish eyes, and the straight ‘‘ Injun” air. Both were Bummer’s - Bendites; the first, Dell Guthrie, or Dandy Dell, a nephew of cld General Howard, and an authority in the little mining-town, of which he was “mayor,” and manager. ‘A gambler, a horse-jockey, a cead- shot, and a great brag, he bore an unenviable reputation, and was disliked, if not feared by the great majority of the people. <A noted bravo he had become by openly killing his “pair of pilgrims,” in cold blood, and the re had strengthened him as ‘‘boss” of the wn. His companion, the half-breed, was called Lynx. and was a fit tool and associate for this ruffian dandy. ** Who are those two galoots?” Guthrie asked, as Captain Mayburn and the Chinaman walked away. “It appears to me I have seen the American, before.” ‘They belong toa party of rangers who are
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4 Chip, the Girl Sport. camped around the Bend,” the half-breed re- plied. ‘‘The American is the captain.” _ “A band of rangers, eh? What are they do- ing here?—where are they going?” ‘Don’t know. Camped last night. Got good horses—pack-mules, too.” “Then they are bound for the interior, Pll wager. How many are there of them?” ‘* Four—the captain, whose name is Mayburn, a nigger, a Dutchman, and the Chinaman.” ad Humpb! a motley gang I must admit. I must look into this matter, directly. There may be reasons why they should not go further west. But, at present, I've other business, I’m to ride Evelyn’s “ Flying Star,” and [’m going to show these Bendites how to come in at the death. There’s a purse of five thousand dollars in the hands of the treasurer—a thou- sand for each entry, and if I win the race, I have half.” ** But you will not win,” Lynx said, suddenly pointing down the street, toward where the last of the passengers was just disembarking from the stage. ‘Yonder is a horse and rider who have won every running race the past year, down in Colorado and Dakota.” Dandy Dell turned in the direction indicated by the half-breed, and saw a horse and rider galloping leisurely into the town, over the route the stage had recently come. The horse, perhaps, we should describe first. It was a handsome animal of about the me- dium hight, with a round graceful body, an arching neck and siall head, while the limbs were clean and supple, and the mane and tail long and wavy. In color this animal was re- markably like those known as circus horses, being mainly bay color, with large white spots dottad in different places upon its body and limbs. It was gayly caparisoned with gold-mounted sad lle and bridle, and was truly a beauty of the equine race, he rider was fully as striking in appearance as the horse—a young man of medium stature, well developed in muscular formation with an in- dependent cast of countenance, handsome brown eyes and hair—the eyes cool and penetrating in their glance--and a mustache to match that was waxed to a point at either end. In costume he looked the sport to perfection, which he was. Tho patent leathers upon his feet, the perfectly-fitting suit of light gray cassimores, the boiled shirt, collarless and open at the throat, and a whitish slouch hat upon his head were his dandified make-up. A massive gold chain reached around his neck aud returned to his watch-pocket; a jeweled rilinz-whip was held in his fair, effeminate hand; ina belt around his waist were a pair of heavy revolvers, such as a borderman desires +o use when he means business, and a silver- hilted sheath dirk. Straight up the street rode the Sport, whistling asnatch from some popular opera, and gazing from one side of the street to the other with the utmost unconcern, as if he were not the ob- sorved of all observers. “Oh! so that’s the animal as is going to beat Miss Evelyn’s racer, is it?’ Guthrie demanded, in ravly to the half-breed’s last remark. ‘‘7Yim! I dare say you are mistaken, Lynx. The runner was never born, thatcould{ ing Star.” fodt ‘I hope so, boss, but reckon you're, Thet hoss is a cuss, and that man. in is a second cuss.” ; _ “Bah! he is a band-box popinjay, ing to appear at his best on coming; town. A week hence you'll see him. usi pan and shovel for a living, no dou along. I'll speedily take the conceit coxcomb, or my name is not Dandy nature-woul a decent d ct that somethin done, the steps of the Girard, whieh, by the largest and most imposing sii Bend, being a combined restauran house, saloon, gambling-house and.d = latter three occupations occupying: the oor. Hs 7 Before the Girard had the elegant Spo the spotted horse dismounted, and : wag tying his whip to the saddle when the came 5 “ Hello! what have we here?” Gut claimed, approaching the horse and s upon the thigh, whereupon the animal laid back its ears and reared its hind fee unbecoming manner. Tie “Whoa! Curse the beast! What's: th ter?” “Took out, you! Don’t get into proximity to the colt’s feet, or he .m tempted .to reay up behind, my frie Sport remarked, dryly. ‘‘ He isn’t pa fond of strangers.” ‘ “So I perceive,” Guthrie growled, ch that an old horseman like himself show kicked at, at the first introduction, “B Christopher, if I owned that mule I'd learn: better manners. What's your price on tho rior in personal ap “The colt is no’ came up from the street without tying horse. ‘That little beast is not for sale least, it would take more money than you got to buy him.” ‘“*Humph! Perhaps you are aware how mue money I have got?’ Dandy Dell growled, fi
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Chip, the Girl Sport. 6 ding into a passion. low you wag your tongue around this town, my hristian friend.” *’ Oh! Thad, eh?” the Sport demanded, leaning against an awning-post and surveying this andy Dell coolly, as he puffed leisurely at a reshly-lighted cigar. ‘‘If so, why so?” ; “Til pretty quick show you, if you give me any of your sass. I’m boss of this town, if you want to know, and when I say butter is salt, it’s salt, and no one durst contradict it. I don’t allow no impudent coxcomb puppies to come to this town and lip around, not for a cent.” |.“ Oh! you don't, eh?” the Beart again replied, ‘a sarcastic smile wreathing his lips. ‘If not, phy not?” “See here! what do you mean?” Dandy Dell cried, his rago increasing as he perceived that his bluster did not have the least apparent effect upon the other, but rather amused him. ‘‘Do you want 1 showid taixe jou by the collar of your jacket and boot you out of the town?” “Tf you have ‘iad your life insured lately in a good reliable compaiy, it would not be a bad idea to make tho attor:pt, being as you seem de- sirous of courting deoth,” was the calm reply. “Tf, however, you are desirous of continuing an earthly existence here below, I should con- fidingly advise you to endeavor to mind your own business” “Mind my own business, will I?’ the Dandy roared, fairly boiling with rage. ‘‘Not tor you, «I won’t, you puppy! If you want fight, (’m the man for you, lam. Step out here, an Pi mop the street with you until you won’t be worth a cent a pound for old bones.” “Thank you for your kind offer, my royal duke, but as 1 haven't had my breakfast yet, I am not in a proper condition for morta] com- bat. If you wait till I have digested my daily bread, you may count on me. I'll be down to the races—come and see me, there, and I am yours truly.” And with a cool laugh the Sport . waved his hand, and entered the Girard. With an oath Guthrie was about to follow him, but the half-breed caught him by the arm, and pulled him back. “Stop!” he commanded, in alow tone. “It won't pay you to provoke a quarrel with tha ifollow. He is more than your equal with any weapon you can name, and you would surely get the worst of it, Let him go—there are other ways to deol with him, most ape af “How do you mean?” the general’s fiery nepkew demanded. “Never mind, just now,” the half-breed re- ‘plied, significantly, ‘‘ Wait till the races begin —then you can show him your heels.” ' The dandy-bully growlingly suffered himself ‘to be pulled away or the half-breed, although it was much against his will. The cool stranger was the first man in the town of Bummer’s Bend, who had ever ‘‘sassed” him and lived to } tell it, and he was enraged. In the meantime the spectators were gathered in crowds at the scene of the coming races, and preparations were nearing completion. ». Carpenters had erected a temporary judge’s stand beside the track; also another simiiar stand upon a larger scale, for the accommoda- |’ | ‘*You’d better be careful tion of General Howard’s party, which con- sisted of the general, in person—a portly, gray- haired and bearded gees of perhaps five and sixty years, with a pleasant countenance and a hag bearing that could but impress one in his favor; his stately daughter Evelyn, ce rising one and twenty, and the acknow- edged belle of the town and the town’s society ; Sir Ashley Crawford, an English tourist, who was the general’s guest, and several of tho he ge adies and gentlemen of Bummer’s end. The judges’ stand contained three horse ex- perts named Redney, Dobleau, and Watson. At one o’clock the call-bell rung, the course was cleared of yeople, and a dozen horses gal- loped down before the judges’ stand, each mounted by a rider. Among the most conspic- uous was Dandy Dell, mounted upon_a hand- some bay mare, which was Evelyn Howard’s noted racer, Flying Star. A beautiful specimen of the equine race the bay certainly was, and fully as proud appearing as the cold haughty mistress who sat upon the stand with a confident smile upon her face. Order!” yelled stalwart Joe Redney, from the judges’ stand. ‘The race to-day will be for a purse of twelve thousand dollars, there being twelve entries, The winner will receive seven thousand dollars, the second in the race threo thousand, and the third two thousand dvllars. Horses entered for the race are as follows: Fly- ing Star, by Miss Evelyn Howard; Nettie, Jr., by Dunk Dalton; Meteor, va Robert Chilton; Powder Face, by Wild Bill; Marion Rocket, by Dave Morris; Lady Slipper, by Mrs. Mackey; Blue Bell, by James Thurmen; Firebug, by White Face, the Apache chief; Lightfoot, by old Jeff Potter; Little Lightning, by Kit Callon; Shoo Fly, by Le Vere, and Circus, by Rosebud Rob—twelve in all. The by-laws of the course to govern the race!” ‘“*T object to tke last horse mentioned!” Dandy Dell cried, fiercely. ‘‘ Rosebud Rob is a foreign- er, and his horse is a vicicus animal, unfit to mingle among good racers. I motion that he be ruled out,” “Ay! rule out the spotted animal, judge! cried the clear voice of Evelyn Howard. ‘Do not let him race.” “Sorry, ma’am, but I can’t oblige ye,” Red- ney replied. ‘‘ Rosebud Rob planked his thou- sand, and I reckon he’s aright to goit fer keeps.” “] object, He is not a citizen, and we don’t allow none but citizens to compete!” the gener- al’s Sc gre replied, angrily. ‘‘Give the man, Rosebud Rob, as you call him, back his money, and rule him out!” ‘Excuse me, ma’am!” tho strange Sport said, rising in his stirrups, and raising his hat, po- litely, ‘‘ but I do not choose to receive the de- posit back, nor to withdraw from the race. I acknowledge that I am not a citizen of hs esti- mable town, but I trust that I shall beecme such, and believe I have a p:rfect right to race my horse, if I choose to risk my cash!” ‘Hurrah! that’s ther kind o’ logic fer ye!” cried a clear, cool voice,,and into the ring rode the eccentric girl dandy, who had lately arrived in the stage. “T say, give every hog a sup at ther swill,
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6 Chip, the Girl Sport. and don’t give it all ter one bloated haristocratic pig. The galoot with ther spotted cayuse, has got as much right ter take a hand as any one else, and here I am, Cinnamon Chip, right down from the roaring regions of Montana, re bet high ther spotted nag takes ther pot! All eyes were turned upon the strange Girl Sport, who sat coolly upon her horse, with her hat cocked upon one side of her head, and a cigar between her fingers, as independent and saucy looking as an arab from the streets of the metropolis. No “slouch” of a character was she, evi- dently, nor was she afraid to express her opinion of matters in the presence of auy crowd. “Who are you, that you lip in when you ain’t concerned?” Dandy Dell cried, savagaly not at all relishing the interference, for he ha set his heart upon ruling Rosebud Rob out of the race. “Who am I?’ Cinnamon Chip replied, saucily. ‘* Well, sir, my royal charmer, I just gave you my handle—Cinnamon Chip, at your service, guide, sport, hunter, trapper, miner, and hoss-jockey, all in one, ye perseeve. An’ Tll allow thet that ’ar Sport wi’ ther waxed mustache and the spotted hoss, hes got a perfect right ter take a hand in this race, and P’llgo any galoot ten to one thet ho rakes the board, too— by a large majority.” “The spotted horso shall not race!” Miss Howard cried, angrily. ‘If it is allowed in the race, I will withdraw my horse.” “Can't help it, ma’am!” Reduey replied. “ Business is bizness, and as we judges own this course, I opine we've the right to do as we please. You can withdraw your horse, but not your deposit!” “This is a shame—an outrage!” the beauty of the fort cried, her face very red with mortifi- cation, that her will should be opposed, “It is too bad!” And the ladies in her box of course felt com- p2lled to echo her sentiments, os they belonged to her set. “Tt is precisely right, Evelyn!” old General Howard said, in his blunt but honest way. “You are a little too fast, my dear—this is a free-to-all race, and the gentleman on the spotted animal has equal rights with the rest.” “ Gentleman !” Miss Howard exclaimed, with a sneer. ‘Indeed, you must have very poor taste, to call that strolling vagabond a gentle- man.” é Rosebud Rob heard the thrust, but did not re- ply, although his face flushed and an angry glitter crept into his brown eyes. He was well aware that the general’s daughtor would try to crush ‘him, and he resolved to hold his own. Many a woman bad he known, but none had | ever taken up armsagainst him as Miss Howard | now had done. There seemed to be a divided opinion in the crowd of spectators, whether it would be right settle this matter, ladies and gentlemen,’ os Captain Mayburn, the blonde stranger stepped forward, followed by his Celesti anion, Pigtail Pete. ‘‘ The house appears divided, and the only way to decide th is to take a vote. Those in fayor of si “Ay! Hip! hip!-ho Ther owner of the spotted. an’ I can lick any daloct a be it a king: or.aq ; I'm your. custom Trish up, and, look guile s0 \ a Jucivee, bute wi’ no-bedex you're itchin’ quake, and: yo a righ ye can’t play no gum gan onless ye want tor heer. a, report country.” ees “Oh, you’re a blow, you are!” growled, savagely, “‘ an’ ef it wasn’ a woman, I’d slap your mouth to a “Whoop! hurra! Slap my moni you—slap my mouth, ef it warn’t for, al? Ha! ha! ha! Gal or no gal, you slap one side of my fodder-trap, yo jawed son of a Greaser!” Chip cried, “Order!” roared Joe Redney, judges’ stand. ‘The Sport with horse shall race with the rest. Ge the start!” ; At the word there was a general, the animals to the third quarter, which to get a start. Dandy Dell led the advance, upon lyn’s handsome mare, with Rosebud: the spotted animal, bringing up the re On reaching the quarter-post all hop wheeled around, and came galloping ward the judges’ stand, abreast. ‘ Dandy ell however had the inside and had managed to crowd tbe Sport ou’ Rosebud Rob, however, with his imp ble coolness, only smiled, and held hi with a slack rein. As he approac! stands, he saw a gleam of hatred in Miss ard’s eyes, and acting on the impulse of 7 moment, he touched his hat and bowed, m Redney sung out: “ y And the twelve animals shot out from op site the grand stand, nearly abreast. The race had begun! CHAPTER III. ROSEBUD ROB’S CHALLENGE, to allow the Sport to compete or not. Many were in favor of honoring the will of the proud Miss Evelyn, while others were admirers ; of the Sport, and decided for him. “There seems but one way to satisfactorily Away dashed the twelve racers down the stretch, at the top of their speed, the riders” plying the whip and spur—all except in the. case of Rosebud Rob,
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. Chip, the Girl Sport. He sat in his saddle, as if rooted there, and pave his ee beauty the rein without word, pur or whip. On the first quarter the spotted horse drop; ehind, several lengths, while Dandy Dell ml rted ahead about the same distance, he hav- ng the inside track, and the bay mare doing landsomely, “Hurrah! the little bay is going home, fiumphant!” Evelyn Howard cried, excitedly, bile her friends cheered vociferously. ‘*On— im! Flying Star! Show your heels to them!” “It do look uncommon like as if the Sport’s a housan’ out,” Cinnamon Chip said, turning to faptain Mayburn, who stood near by. =I took more stock in thet ar’ spotted cayuse han in any ther rest o’ the nags, but I reckon I tot fooled fer once.” “By no means,” Mayburn replied, with a mile, ‘* That pe ih is only playing off now. When they are about far enough ahead of him, Topine you'll see gravel fly.” “Ha, ha! what will you bet?” Evelyn Howard ried, sarcastically, for the speakers were stand- ing immediately in front of her stand. s“ If you’ve so much confidence in the vaga- bond’s animal, back it up with a little of your sare dasb. I’ll bet you a thousand dollars that ying Star wins first money.” ‘You'll have to excuse me, miss, for I never nake it a point to bet with a woman or take an infair‘advantage of the weaker sex, which I would be doing by betting with you, for I am ertain that Rosebud Rob’s horse will win,” Mayburn said. * Bah! you are a coward, that you are afraid to bet on _a certainty, then!” the belle of Bummer’s Bend cried, with a perceptible angry meer. “A coward is, who coward calls, I have al- ways heard, madam,” the ranger captain re- plied, with scorn expressed in his tone. Then they all turned to watch the race, »The main body of the horses had just passed the quarter-pole—Rosebud Rob was just passing it, the last of the whole lot. Evident it was that he was not trying hard to Win, and sundry exclamations of disappointment yére heard among the audience. ‘In the spotted horse many had centered their expectations, and not a few their wagers, and from all appearances they were going to lose, for the horse of Evelyn Howard was at least six ngths ahead, flying toward the half-mile pole. hite Face, the Apache, came next behind Dandy Dell, and then the others were strung long about a half-length apart, with Circus, the asi a horse, bringing up the rear, full five Jengths behind. -“Et’s good-by, Susan Jane, fer ther Sport!” Cinnamon Chip cried, disappointedly. ‘1 took thet rooster ter be sum on his muscle, fer he hed concentrated lightnin’ in his eye, but I teckon I made chewy eg in takin’ his — inventory, an’ as fer thet pesky cayuse, he’s as deceivin’ as false teeth in a screechin’ lucivee, shoot me ef he ain’t.” “Don’t get discouraged, my friend,” Captain are cried, excitedly. ‘Just look at the Spo nag, now, will ye! I'll bet with any man that Circus comes home first!” But, just then, no one appeared possessed of any desire to bet against the Sport’s animal, for Circus had suddenly stretched his neck out nearly on a level with his back, and was flying over the ground at a rate of speed simply in- credible. One after another of the horses he passed, like a flash, and he and Flying Star passed the half-mile pole abreast. But the next instant he shot on ahead, amid deafening cheers from the majority of the spectators, for such beautiful work had never before been performed upon the course at Bum- mer’s Bend within the recollection of the oldest inhabitant. As he darted Dandy Dell, Rosebud heard a spiteful crack as of a whiplash, and felt a stinging sensation in his left arm, but suppos- ing he had been struck by Guthrie's whip, he paid no attention to the sting, until he heard a second crack, and a bullet whizzed unpleas- antly near his cheek. Turning, he saw Dandy Dell just returning a pon to his belt, a malignant expression of tred upon his dark, evil face. Without pausing to glance at his wounded arm, Rosebud Rob urged on his fying animal, by an occasional word, and amid thunders of deafening pag he passed the judges’ stand fully an eighth of a mile ahead of the field! and indisputably won the race in a fair and square manner. Cheer after cheer went up, and loudest of all were the plaudits of Cinnamon Chip, and the ranger captain, Jack Mayburn. Evelyn Howard stood partly leaning from her stand, with a face that was white with passion, and eyes that gleamed with terrible rage. Plain it was that the defeat of her horse had been to her a heavy blow. Nor was her hitherto noted mare destined to win any of the laurels, for Wild Bill Marion’s horse came in for second money, and White Face, the Apache, spurted ahead of Dandy Dell when within a rod of the goal, and passed the last pole in time to take last purse. “Hip! hip! hooray! Anything to beat the gineral’s darter, even if it is an Apash nigger!” cried Cinnamon Chip, as she took her hat from her curly head and waved it in the air. “TI told ye ther Sport would come to his oats, all hunkidori, fer I see’d it in his optic, an’ don’t ye fergit it!” “Tt is an outrage and an indignity!” Miss Howard cried, angrily. ‘ Mr. Guthrie, send Flying Star home at once, and have him well cared for. Itis the last time that he shall ever race again.” “T will take him and see to him myself, Miss Evelyn,” Dandy Dell replied, bowing. ‘It was not the fault of the horse that he Sia not win, and he shall be well cared for. I will oversee it myself,” “Hold on, my friend, if you please,” Rosebud Rob exclaimed, riding his horse suddenly across the other’s path as he was about to de . “T’ve got a bone to pick with a chap of about your size, if I know myself, and I opine there /s no time like the present.” Guthrie’s face suddenly glowed with anger, but he made no attempt to draw a weapon, for
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8 Chip, the Girl Sport. he saw that the Sport’s right hand already rest- edu a Staal ble se ‘é ‘Well, what d’ye want?” he growled Y “Spit it out, for im ina Tmueey eer f ‘*Oh, you are, eh?’ and a cynical smile lurked around Rosebud’s mouth. ‘Perhaps if you had been in a little more of a hurry, you might have won the race. But that is neither here nor there. You deliberately shot at me after I had passed you out yonder, and one bullet took ef- fect in my left arm. Now, I don’t allow that it hurts a man to be playful occasionally, but I do know that I don’t allow a man to make me his target, and therefore I presume you know that you've got to give me satisfaction!” ‘Satisfaction be hanged! I did not fire to hit you, but to scare your horse so that he would throw you off,” the mayor retorted. “The excuse is no better than the intention, and if you are willing, we can settle the matter in short order. Wither rifle, knife, pistol or fist will suit me, and so I give you your choice.” “ Thet’s ther talk fer ye—thet’s ther cud fer ye to chaw on, you son of a Greaser!” Cinnamon Chip shouted, in delight. ““Thet Sport ain’t no slouch, an’ I know’d it frum ther minit I popped my eyes onter him. Jest look at him, will ye, an’ ef ye don’t allow he’s a paragon o’ perfection, P’ll b’y ther bug- juice. could hug him myself, ef et warn’t un- maidenly and unbecoming of a gal o’ my good looks aw’ character. An’ as fer thet black, swarthy cuss w’at rid ther bay mare--as fer him, ef et warn’t fer ther trouble o’ gittin’ off from my hoss, i’d annihilate him in two jerks of a donkey’s narrative. Oh, ye needn’t grin, you doubting pilgrims, fer I c’u’d do the leetle trans- action, wi’ ther greatest o’ ease, an’ not half try, Oh! I’m a North American tearer, I am, and don’t ye doubt it. Mebbe I don’t look as ef I could teetotally demolish several armies, but ef ye don’t believe I can fight, just call me a son of a sea-cook, an’ see how quick I'll hump my back up, and go fer ye, tooth, tongue and toe-nail!” ““T have no desire to fight,” Dandy Dell grunt- ed, for although he was an acknowledged dead shot, he was now chary about encountering this cool dandified sport in mortal combat. Rather would he have waited until he could get him at an unfair advantage—then show his hand. “More, I won’t fight. 1t’s against the orders of General Howard, to fight a duel in this town, and I must need his orders.” “You are a coward, and beneath the notice of acur!” Rosebud Rob said, contemptuously. “T will let you off, as I always pity any person who is afraid!” “T am not afraid, but it is oa inst the gen- eral’s orders,” the Dandy protested, looking very sheepish. ‘ Wait until I catch you outside the town limits, and you shall have all the satisfac- tion you want!” “T pray that may be very soon,” was Rose- bud’s rejoinder. “Races over!” shouted Joe Redney, from the ed stand. ‘Circus won first money, Wild il’s nag second money, and White Face third. The stakes will be divided at the Girard to-night. Clear out now, one and all.” The crowd accordingly began to disperse, mainly in the direction of the town, the general _ and his suite and an escort of soldiers being thg ert ones who went toward the fort. f bud Rob rode leisurely toward the town, whistling, and appearing perfectly undisturbed although there were many who were excited and enthusiastic over the victory of his spotted racer. No horse had these Bendites and wild, rudé Arizonians ever seen that could equal thd Sport's cayuse, and many admiring glances did the victorious animal receive. 1 “T suppose he is not for sale, eh?” Captain) Mayburn inquired, as Rosebud Rob dismounted {, before the Girard, and gave Circus into chargé of the hostler. i “Not for all the gold in these regions, sir,” the Sport replied, with a quiet smile. ‘ The! horse, I a say, isa part of my being, and to part with him, would be to lose the most valued of all my present possessions.” 5 ‘He is indeed a noble animal, and was well! ridden,” Mayburn i opi as he turned away,’ and sauntered down the street. Rosebud Rob gazed after him, a moment, and then entered the restaurant. i Here he dined, and then sauntered into tho gambling apartment to look on, for, although’ no gamester by profession, he knew whata good) game was, and took pleasure in watching tho ever-changing tide of fortune. , The firs’ rson he encountered, on entering, | was the Girl Guide, Cinnamon Chip—the eccen- tric creature in male attire, whose beauty of face and form attracted universal admiration, ' but whom no man seemed desirous of offending. .\} In those far-away mining regions, such women } as ‘wear the breeches,” are generally set down" as tough customers to handle, especially where. they carry weapons, as did the Girl Guide. She looked up, and smiled in recognition, as she saw Rosebud Rob, and put out a hand that was as fair, and as soft as velvet. ‘Shake, partner, for I reckon you are the very galoot I am glad to see!” she said, her eyes dancing merrily. ‘‘It just did me proud, to see! ou scoot away from thet gineral’s darter’s nag, / it did, you bet, an’ J opine thar wasn’t many who wasn’t glad you won.” G “Think so? Well, I don’t know, I am sure, I saw, however, that my cause had a warm ad- vocate in you.” ‘““You bet yer boots. Ef ever I was glad, it was when I see’d you beat Flyin’ Star. I war’ ruther dubious 0’ you, when I see’d you Jaggin g behind, but when you spurted ahead, sez I to myself, sez I: Chip, my gal, there’s a squaré) galoot, half man, an’ t’other half distilled) lightning, and he’s ther chap fer ye to ketch onter for a friend, bein’s you're a lone trick inj this full deck 0’ aces. made bold to salute ye, jest now, although I never had nary an introduc!” og “* Which was perfectly right, 1f you are in need of a right bower,” Rosebud replied, shaks ing her hand, and then lighting a cigar. “Dm at your disposal for any service you may:ré uire, from pi a road-agent, to scalping pache, although I have had more experienc in the former t! in the latter line of busi “ That's the talk! I know’d you wasn’ tii |
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Chip, the Girl © t 9 3 9 | : ' slouch, the minnit I fired a glance at ye, and I reckoned a a could trust herself with a pard of your cali without fear of insult or assault. * Mebbe I don’t jook quite like a fu’st-class angel in these togs, ner my vocabulary ain’t quite so _ polished as a hot-house belle’s, but I calculate there’s considerable respect and virtue in me, jet although others might not think it, because ‘ma wild oat, and as independent as a hog on ‘ice, an’ can take care of number one, every day in the week, and twice on Sunday.” “A wild oat — you may be, I believe H you are all right, and can assure you of m | friendship to the end,” Rosebud Rob said, warmly, although a sudden wave of sadness swept across his handsome face, as he thought | of his loved one who ee down in a golden ulch in the wild Black Hills—poor Baltimore ess, who in her life and strength, ere the assas- sin’s hand struck her, had been so like this Cin- namon Chip in character and spirit. ‘I, as well as yourself, count asa stranger in this town, y,| and strangers often make the warmest friends. ‘a I age you came here to dig for golden nug- gets?” q ‘““Nary a time, my Rosebud! no mining on 1 my plate, if I know myself. Just what nig brought me down to Bummer’s Bend is at de presant a secret, which I must not betray even to you. °F =“ Nor is it required that you should,” Rose- bud Rob replied. ‘‘ My mission here is also un- -@ known to any one except myself.—Hello! I | Wonder what’s the rampus-now?” Something, evidently, for the door had sud- } denly been thrown open, and a squad of soldiers’ ; | headed by Dandy Dell Guthrie entered the gam- ing saloon. “Ts you or me as is wanted, Bobbie!” Cin- namon Chip announced, quickly drawing and cocking her revolvers. ‘* Pull your pill-boxes, pard, and if they give you five wiggles of ‘their lip, let °em have all they want, right » from the muzzle!” CHAPTER IV. THE CAMP AROUND THE BEND—OLD HARDPAN, THE camp around the Bend, to which the » half-breed fellow, Fn fons referred in a previous chapter, was located under the shade of a grove _ of cottonwoods on the bank of a stream, about ‘half a mile below the Bend, to which the little town riearly extended. The camp consisted of three tents, and a dozen horses and pack-mules that were tethered out to graze. Looking in upon the ae the night after the / races, one would have behe! id quite a llttle crowd ‘assembled around the brightly burning fire in front of the tents—men who looked rough and used to life upon the prairies, but who were, ‘at a glance, a strangely assorted lot. The captain of the band, Blonde Jack May- / burn, lay outstretched upon the grass, with his 2 elbow and hand supporting his head as he | smoked a finely-wrought meerschaum pipe. A ‘handsome fellow this Mayburn, with his fine form and genial face with its firm but pleasant mouth, its brown sparkling eyes and golden Pappendages of hair and mustache, And no { man was he, evidently, to brook insult or allow any one to crowd upon him. ot far from the Captain, the Celestial, Pig- tail Pete, was squatted upon the grass engaged in braiding his cue. ; Next to the Chinaman, was a tall, lanky fel- low of powerful build,.who looked as if he might be able to handle a dozen foes with com- parative ease. He was a plainsman, to ’the core, and boasted not of his many deeds, but was singularly re- ticent and taciturn, In face he was dark, but not unhandsome, with black eyes, hair and mustache and even teeth of pearly whiteness, which he showed every time he spoke or laugh- ed, which was not often. This man was familiarly known to the Bum- mer’s Bendites as Wild Bill Marion, the ‘Aven- ger, from the fact that his chief mission in life seemed to be the wreaking of vengeance upon whatever Indians came in his way. Years before, it was said, his wife and only child had been massacred by the red-skins, and he had ever since devoted his life to destroying the red-skin savages. Next_to the scout, seated upon a log was a burly German, named Fritz, and a coal-black darky, Jerusalem Grund by name, both of whom were members of burn’s party. Upon the other side of the captain stood an Arizonian giant, of powerful build, known all through the north and west as Old Hardpan—a great strapping, burly individual, with a head of immense proportion, covered with stragglin hair and beard; eyes large and bloodshot, an a mouth of enormous proportions. One pecu- oes Dea his ccuntenance was its marvelous re- semblance to that of a bullfrog, the features being noticeably shaped in the same manner, and giving to him an odd and uncouth appear- ce, ance, -He was dressed in greasy buckskin, with a lacerated slouch hat upon his head, while his weapons consisted of the long-barreled rifle upon which he leaned, and a knife and pair of revol- vers in his belt, Evidently he had just stalked into the camp for many curious eyes were leveled at him, and Captain ayburn was saying: “Take a seat on the ground, stranger, for if you are indeed the redoubtable Hardpan Jeff, of whom I have heard so much, you are the very man I want to see!” ‘“Waal, pardner, I opine I'll squat, then, fer I’m ther same old pestiverous Old Hardpan, at yer sarvice— “The tiger cat o’ the Golden river An’ fu’st galoot who gold did ’skiver.”’ And having delivered himself of his little speech, the veteran seated himself upon a log, and proceeded to take an optical inventory of those gathered around the fire: “Thar’s Wild Bill Marion—he’s condensed dynamite, when yer tech him off, and ar’ a gude aloot ter hey in any party. Then, thar’s ther hinaman! Don’t know about him—them durned pigtails ar’ liable ter sp’ile on one’s hands. An’ as fer ther Dutchman and the nig- er, they may be hefty on a fight, but their ooks are powerfully against ’em, Waal, waal, ico ediecwongat he rie ee ee i seri ans ase 9 Re pe PRIS ye cP
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10 Chip, the Cap, whar ye aimin’ fur, wi’ sech a handful o’ men, an’ ther mountings an’ peerairies swarmin* wi’ *Pash an’ Mixtures?” ‘That is something I don’t exactly know my- self,” Captain Mayburn replied with a musi- callaugh. ‘‘ We're bound for somewhere, but just where that somewhere is, I cannot say.” ‘Great cattymounts! bound fer, ther howlin’ wilderness, an’ don’t kno’ whar ye’re goin’?” “T guess that’s about the size of it,” May- burn replied. ‘In fact, I reckon we're on a wild-goose chase, unless, perchance, you can en- lighten us.” “Great behomaths an’ mastadons o’ Holy Writ! Ef thar’s one man can onlighten ye, ’'m the very roseate-tinted gourd, right up from the Milky river—ther prickly cactus fresh frum ther plains o’ New Mexico—ther big-mouthed, melodious bull-frog frum ther savanna swamps uv ther Nor’west! Speel out, my Christyun friend, and ef I can’t answer ye, I'll dry up, an’ say quits, by the great etarnal!” Me Wen, sir, what brought us up into this God-forsaken region, is substantially as follows: A short time since, an old trapper came to our camp, one night, ey Utah way, where we were prospecting, and told usa fabulous yarn about an old ruined Indian town of some extinct race, that was rich with golden treasures, and a wild rugged pile of mountainous rocks, in the center of a haunted lake, surmounted by a temple con- taining an idol or statue of solid gold, whose eyes were real diamonds of marvelous size, the actual worth of all of which was millions of dol- lars. ‘* A love of adventure, and a desire to see this ‘olden curiosity, led us to obtain the directjons fons the trapper, how to reach the desired goal, and we started. You now find us on our way, but quite as uncertain how to proceed as a man lost upon the Staked Plain.” ‘And as big a pack o’ durned fules as evyer straddled a hoss,” Old ee ee grunted, “Then you have heard of this ruined citadel and the golden idol?” “Great cattymounts, yes! Ive heerd on’t, an’ heerd a thousan’ different yarns about it!” ‘“‘ But do you believe that there is any truth in the matter?” ‘Heaps on’t, stranger. Thar ain’t skeercely no doubt that such a place exists, fer et war dis- covered by Hayden’s Explorin’ Expedition sev- eral years ago, but they war either skeered out, or driven out, nobody seems to know which, an sence then nobody can find ther place ner reach it in any shape.” “Then attempts have been made to reach it?” ‘““Yes, More ner a dozen different cusses hey attempted ter reach it, but failed—leastwise they nevyer anteed up ag’in, an’ I ‘spect they got fastened somehow.” “ But will not Professor Hayden, or some of his men, give a clew to this mystery-enshrouded place?” ‘Not by a durned sight. They’re as close- mouthed about et as a pack o’ mules. Ask ’em about et, an’ all they'll do is ter grin an’ keep their jaws frum waggin’. Nothin’ kin ye pump out of them.” a “Which is strange,” Captain Mayburn said, Girl Sport. ‘* This trapper who informed us claimed to haye visited the ruined temple, and viewed the golden idol, but before he could pocket any of the sa d; he was seized by invisible hands and blindfald- ed, after which he was borne through thea some kind of conveyance, and after a lon, found himself standing upon the enon open prairie, unable to tell where hey how he came there. Days of wanderin bring him to the ‘ spirit town,’ as he and vag. my by a superstition, he made down to the South, swearing never to set foot in Arizona again.” “ A fea expression flitted across the Old Hardpan, hard to interpret. “ve = Hort coer Bbout et—o a speerit band o’ Apache uns, | s eg Pac gal, who fighean he } about like genny wine an; 1 W like, flyin’ devils,” : eels o “Then you have: 9 mysterious place??..i. “*T reckon thar’ ; as kin p’int out ther ro cept one, onless Wild Bill fer he’s scouted heaps further than I? ‘““T would give a hundred scalps to. to reach the place,” the dark-vi said, a his pipe from his mouth lon, to yi “ f ‘“ Who is this exception you mentiong burn asked, eagerly. . “Ets a gal—a wild, devil sort. o. ae wars britches, an’ calls herself Cin ‘* What! does this strange girl, k to the ruined city?” pe Barrett war one 0’ Ha; they found ther place, a checks, last winter, the gal, an’ I'll allow'e idol, fer he p’inted strained my old ears; ‘b sarned word about et.” >. “This Cinnamon Chip m ’ service, then,” Captain Jack} said, will go at once to the town and hun for I want to start in the morningyj any way secure her services.” ‘“Keerect, an’ ef ye hain’t no obje pedestrianize along with you, fer ’twixt me an’ ther gooseberry-bush, thet leaflet Bummer’s Bend wouldn’t be a healthy,pla ye ter strike, ef it war known ther bi fetches ye inter Arizona.” “‘ And why not?” Mayburn exclaimed prise. “Oh! I don’t ’xactly know why, but I'v sum mighty s’spicious oe sense Ty squattin’ around Bummer’s Bend. Thar’ thing as plain as yer nose, and thet’s ter ti effect thet ef ther durned Apash nigger, Wh Face, wore ter get an inkling whar you're bou fer, ye’d_hev his hull band at yer heels, wassups.” “Then you think White Face knows all al the ‘spirit city’? “*T dunno; but he don’t seem delighted Q anybody steerin’ any further inter ther wild ness, i ; d
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& Chip, the Girl Sport. 11 ** Well, come along, and we'll go to the Bend, ‘and see what can be done with the Girl Sport, Cinnamon Chip.” The advent of the squad of soldiers into the » Girard gambling-saloon, headed as they were by Dandy Dell, who was lieutenant of General Howard’s command, in addition to his other po- sitions, caused no little excitement. Games of all kinds were instantly suspended, ' and the votaries thereof, as well as the assem- bled spectators, drew weapons and stood wait- ing the issue. » In no way or manner were the citizens of the Bend particularly fond of Uncle Sam’s boys; then the fact that they were headed by the blustering bully, Dandy Dell, seemed to indi- cate that there was no uncertain savoring of a ) row: Especially did the sportive portion of the . Bendites dislike Dandy Dell, because he never played but to win, and many a gamester had he cleaned out. Hence the dislike. So that Cin- namon Chip and Rosebud Rob were not the only ones to draw their weapons, on the defen- sive, On entering, Dandy Dell took in the situation at a glance, and a dark scowl mantied his fore- heyd. , 4 Well, sir, what. do_you want here?’ de- manded Colonel Dick Douglass, the bluff and portly cg eg of the Girard, as he came in 5 tooth the hotel to see what was the matter. » ‘ What do you mean by bringing those soldiers in here?” __ *T reckon I don’t have to ask leave to enter » here, with the power of the United States,” Guthrie replied, insolently. “I ain’t going to disturb any of your possessions!” “No, Pi allow you ain’t!” Colonel Dick re- torted. ‘‘ Ner ye ain’t going to disturb none o’ my patrons, nuther!” ; —— **Kerwhoop! thet’s the kind o’ talk ter come » frum a Christyun!” cried Cinnamon Chip, en- » thusiastically. “Spit it right out to the black son of a Greaser, cornel, rite frum ther elbow, an’ ef he gives you any o* his lip, smack him one on the mug, for me!” . “What do you want here, Guthrie?” tie pro- prietor demanded again. . “ Well, sir, it won't take long to tell ye that,” the bully replied. ‘I’ve cum fer that _ pair of precious rascals over there—he that calls himself Rosebud Rob, and the girl, Cinna- mon Chip!” - “But what authority have you for wanting them, sir? I generally protect my patrons, un- » less I find them crim’nal.” “T have an arrest-order from General How- ard for both, on the charge of having used un- gentlemanly and unladylike language to his daughter, and otherwise insulting her. It ismy orders, sir, to bring them to the fort.” “Hol ho! d’ye heer thet, Sport?’ Cinnamon ».Chip cried, turning to Rosebud; ‘ d’ye heer » what.that Shanghai rooster wi’ the hoss’s mane on his upper jaw said? Darn my buttons, ef I / ain't five kind o’ notions to climb him and sculp ‘him right ,where he stands! The idea o’ us in- sultin’ thet gal o’ ther general’s, the sassy, good- \for-nothing hussy! Ef it warn’t thet funeral | expenses war so high in this yere country, Pd waltz right over to ther fort and shoot her fer a yelpin’ coyote.” ‘“*T rather reckon Mr. Guthrie has undertaken something utterly impossible for him to per- form,” the Sport replied, coolly. ‘‘ We did not insult the general’s daughter, as can casily bo proven, aud I shall not submit to arrest.” “Oh, ye won't, eh?” Dandy Dell growled, fiercely. ‘‘ We'll see about that. I reckon my hand contains more aces than yours.” “TI care not; if you think you are in good health, you’d better sail right in, and by the time the little transaction is settled, you'll find you need ‘spades’ more than ‘aces.’ Come along, I say, if you want to arrest me or this girl—I am all on the qui vive to see you do it!” CHAPTER V. A LITTLE GAME OF BLUFF—IN BLACK HOLLOW. So that in the gambling saloon there was a prospect of an approaching affray, for an ordi- nary spectator would have had no doubt but that the bullying lieutenant-mayor would make a pounce upon the bold Sport with his squad of soldiers, But cunning as the wolf was the command- ant’s nephew; he saw that despite his handful of men, the odds were against him, for Rosebud Rob was a host in himself, and then, to all ap- pearances, he was backed, not only by Cinna- mon Chip, but by the entire gang of gamblers assembled in the saloon. “Come along. if I’m the stool-pigeon you're trapping after,” Rosebud Rob cried again. ‘‘ No time like the present to catch on to me, if that is your desire. We'll play snap-and-ketchem Tu snap the Lullets at ye, an’ ye can ketch ‘em! “Hip! hooray! thet’s ther tune fer ye! Ef ye wanter sing, sail right in, an’ hum at us in short meter, an’ we'll play yea chorus. Oh, we ce do it, and don’t ye doubt it!” chimed in ip. Fes, Guthrie, why don’t you sail in?” Colonel Dick, the peoprieter demanded, triumphantly. “There’s ample opportunity to show your good will, by making business for an undertaker, now.” “Curse the luck, how am I to enforce the general’s orders, if the citizens all turn against me?” the Dandy exclaimed savagely, as he glared around, ‘Ten ter one ain’t ther ticket fer me.” “No, that’s true. Unless you can have things all your own way, you crawfish!” was Rosebud’s sarcastic reminder. ‘‘ You can’t play that game now, however, my friend. We've got to have a little settlement, because you fired two chunks 0’ lead at me to-day, an’ I opine ther gencral ain’t a-going to boss this leetle job, an’ I opine, secondly, thet this leetle scrape can be settled right here, if so be the proprietor hasn’t no ob- jections.” . ‘None at all,” Colonel Dick replied, ‘‘;ro- vidin’ yell mop up all the gore spilt, an’ carry out ver own corpses, when ye git through.” ‘Tl see to that, unless I get tapped over the head,” Sport replied. ‘‘ Come, Sir Dandy, nomi- nate your choice of weapons, so that we can get to work,”
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12 Chip, the Girl Sport. “Yes, speel out yer caliber, and jack up yer courage!” Cinnamon Chip cried, fairly dancing at the prospect of a row. ‘‘ Don’t git weak in ther knees, ner pale under the gills, ef ye are goin’ ter do mortal combat wi’ ther Sport, fer he’s condensed nitro-glycerine, an’ ef ye go ter foolin’ around, fu’st ye know he’ll explode, out an’ out, an’ ye’ll find yerself ten thousand miles frum nowhere.” “Shet up, curse you!” Guthrie growled. “T didn’t come here to fight a duel, but to obey the general’s orders.” ““Then why don’t you obey ’em?” the propric- | tor of the Girard demanded... “Because taere appears to be too heaty a hand against my deck. Pull off your pack of gamblers, and I’}l soon show you how quick Pll take the precious pair.” “Gentlemen,” Rosebud Rob said, turning to those of the gamblers and spectators who ‘had drawn weapons, ‘‘ please put up your pill- boxes and carvers, and give this rooster a chance to back his crowing. Dll dare—yes, double dare him to wade in now witli his whole parcel of soldiers!” And each with a pair of serviceable revolvers in hands, the Sport and Cinnamon Chip stood waiting for the issue. But still the ‘‘ mayor ” hesitated. No dainty job did he esteem it to take the plucky couple, whose coolness evidenced the fact that they were ready and willing to fight. ‘‘- You'd better surrender!” he blustered, ‘‘ for I don’t want ter hurt ye, but shell have to, un- less you throw down your shootin’-irons.” “That's precisely what we’re waiting for you to do,” Rosebud Rob retorted; ‘‘ but_there’s a fair prospect that our patience will be ex- hausted.” “T reckon you're right. Ivo struck ye from ther wrong quarter, and will pass, this time,” the dandy bully owned up. ‘‘ But, look out fer me the next time—I’ll catch you on the foul, then.” “And get bounced out on the first base,” Cinnamon Chip rejoined, as with his “ guard” of soldiers Guthrie turned, and filed out of the saloon. ‘Oh! you are a valiant hero, you are, Dandy Dell, but I can lick ye quicker than a billy goat can wiggle his narrative, and don’t ye doubt it!” Clearly defeated was the general’s nephew, and cursing in no elegant way, he betook him- self from the town, and across the prairie'to the fort, which consisted of a block-house, and a number of smaller shanties in which the soldiers were quartered. The block-house was two and a half stories in hight, and the whole mass of buildings were inclosed by a high slab fence. In the second story of the block-house were the reception-rooms and dwelling-apartments of General Howard and his daughter, and_ they were furnished in rather elegant style for being so far from the bounds of civilization. To the parlor of the suit, Adelbert Guthrie took himself, on his arrival at the fort, and found Miss Evelyn pacing to and fro, impa- tiently. “Well?” she demanded, looking up, expe>t- ‘antly, “T couldn’t fetch ’em!” he replied, sourly. % ‘“‘The whole gang of gamblers in the town drew weapons on his side.” ‘* Bah! did you not have the soldiers?” ‘* Even so, but I was outnumbered, and I did J not dare to lead the general’s command intoa battle of my own ordering.” : “Pooh! you are a coward, Dell Guthric. Now © if they are still at large, what is going to be 4 done?’ “That is for you to say. Nothing can be dono with either the Sport or the girl, by attacking them openly. We shall have to nab them un- awares.” : “ Did you send Lynx to learn the mission of the blonde-haired stranger in this region?” ‘““T did, but he is not returned.” “Probably he is having difficulty in finding ~ out what‘he is after. The blonde stranger is not - here without an object, and that object is to find Mount Rosa, and the golden idol. There is: but one person in Bummer’s Bend who can lead the trail to it, and that person is the female whi calls-herself Cinnamon Chip!” : “ Ah! sea, now, then, why your enmity for the girl,” Guthrie replied. ‘‘She is a datger- ous party to have around.” ‘* Very true, and she must be gotten rid cf as soon as possible, although I do not know just how. She is not alone dangerous because of what she knows of the Mt. Rosa business, but there is some other secret connecting her with our family. Did you not notice how the gen- eral was agitated when he saw her, down at the races? He turned as pale as a sheet, and trem- bled. I asked him what was the matiter, but be refused to tell me. But, I am sure there is some important secret that threatens “Ab! perhaps your position as General How- 7 ard’s daughter, ma: wife may step in ahead of you in his affections,” 7 Guthrie suggested, with a villainous smile. 4% ‘“ What then, ma belle?” os “War!” Miss Evelyn said, with sudden fierce- “No woman shall step in ahead of me. ) Ever since I can remember, I have been the ets daughter, and for a number of years, * have held the key to his money safe.” : “* You hold it, now?” “No. He demanded the key a half an hour \j since—a thing he has not done before in ten » years; and a circumstance which leads me to believe that something unusual is on foot.” } “Tf this Girl Sport should step in_ between you and the general’s affection and money, where is my loose cash to come from?” Guthrie 7 demanded, anxiously. Hi “She shall step out faster than she steps in, | mark my word for it!” the proud beauty of the 4 fort declared, her eyes blazing with dangerous light. ‘‘No woman shall supplant me, while } there are ways to remove intruders!” “Royally spoken, my fair cousin; and, b the way, is not the day growing nigh, when I’7@j am to be made.the happiest of men, by having @ the legal right to sunport and protect you?” “Ha! ha! You’d make a famous supporter and protector, when even now you have to de-) end upon me for your spare cash. I will, owever, keep your case in mind, and if I do be usurped—or, perhaps, a *@
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hot get a better offer, you may be the lucky “Yl plant the man that dares to make you a better offer,” the villainous lover said, with a rimace. ‘‘Now, about these enemies—the port and the girl? What are you going to do? pines 2 personally. It is you who must put the girl out of the way and give the Sport a thrashing for having the audacity to enter the tace against my will. The spotted horse, too, must be secured, for it is a superb animal, and I would possess it at any cost.” . _ “ You would not dare be seen in possession of it here?” “Oh, no! It must be spirited away, until the Sport. leaves, “Wall you be out, to-night?” “Certainly, unless the general detains me too late in nursing his troublesome gout. I have one man to see, and think you know who I mean?” “White Face?” : “Yes. I want you to return to the Bend, jm and if you can find him, direct him to meet me 4 at Black Hollow when the moon is a half-hour Om up. *Do you understand?” “Certainly, my fair cousin. It remains for ; me then, to chastise the Sport, and put the Girl © Sport where the daisies grow?” “Yes. I would like to know the secret be- tween’ her and the general, but suppose it is useless to try to find out. But by all means take care that she does not get an interview with the blonde captain of the rangers, for if so be he is in search of Mount Rosa, and finds out that the girl knows the route, he will be sure to eens her as guide.” ‘Very well. As soon as it comes night, I'll go to the town, and do your errand.. But first of all, T must have a little money to defray ex- mses. “T haven’t a cent, and the general has the keys to his safe. You will have to do with- out.” | “ Ah! but I won't!” Guthrie declared, blunt- ly. ‘You've either got to come down to the tune of a hundred or so, or straight to the gen- eral do I go, and tell him something that will surprise him!” “No, no!” Evelyn said, gars mer face » growing ashen-hued, “not that. I have ‘a few dollars, and you shall have that.” ; She took a purse from her tracted a roll of bills, which with evident satisfaction. _ ‘‘T knew you were lying,” he said, as he arose and bowed himself out. d hard expression came upon Evelyn How- ard’s face after he had gone. “Curse him! I believe he would give me away, but for my feeding him on money, Ugh! I shudder at the thought of the conse- quences, should I be exposed. And, yet, it “works so slow—no apparent assurity of its ever consummating the desired purpose. I would I had employed some surer and more rapid ibgency. I am playing a desperate game, and pplaying to win, but if I fail—but, bah! I will ‘not fail, I will win, for the train must sooner or later reach the magazine, Then, all my long ‘ket, and ex- uthrie received Chip, the Giri Sport. is ‘a ie See Utes Saar scheming will be successfully at an end, and—as for marrying Adelbert Guthrie—there are surer and quicker ways to decide for him. As for the bold thing who calls herself Cinnamon Chip, if Guthrie doe: not settle her hash, I will do it myself, and attend to the cool Sport and the blonde-haired captain, afterward!” And the general’s daughter laughed bitterly, as she surveyed herself in a mirror. : Beautiful was she, but very evil at heart—a belle of the Bummer’s Bend’s first society, and yet a very wolf—the disguise of a lamb—a woman, whose evil passions, unchecked as they were—might work many a person ill. A couple of miles north of Bummer’s Bend the prairie broke from its level course into a series of undulations and hollows, one of which was deep and ravine-like, with rocky walls on either side, and a pebbly bottom over which water sometimes flowed in the wet seasons, A prairie fire had licked the place and smoked its steep walls at no distant day, and hence its appellation of Black Hollow. It was a spookerish place in the day, to say nothing about the night; yet it was often the camping-place of bands of vagabond Indians and horse-thieves, who dared not expose their nary aay upon the prairies near the fort. About the same hour that Captain Mayburn and Old Hardpan started from their camp for the Bend, a single horseman entered the Black Hollow from its mouth, and rode carefully into the dark depths. The full moon just peeping up over the eastern horizon, in a measure lit the way; but then his horse seemed familiar with the path, and made no objection to the sprokish place. The rider was closely wrapped in a blanket, but the feathers which ornamented his scalp- lock proclaimed himan Indian. And hada eat son seen his face they would have recognized him as White Face, the pron . Not far into the Hollow did the chief ride be- fore he drew rein and looked cautiously arcund him. ae seeing no one, he wheeled his horse facing the direction from which he had come, and then both horse and rider remained motionless, making a weird, uncanny spectacle, as revealed in the moon’s full rays. For some time all was silent, and then a horse’s feet resounded upon the pebbly bottom and a woman rode up to where the Apache chief was standing—not Miss Evelyn Howard, evi- dently, but a strange-looking Indian maiden, whose features were darker than those of the Apache—a dusky creature with dark eyes and hair, clad in a semi-male one suit of purest white, with a white cloak around her shoulders, and no covering to her head. She drew rein when the horse was close beside the Apache, who sat stoically in his saddle, and peered inquiringly into his face. “Ts this White Face, the great chief of the Northern Apaches?” she asked, in pure English. “Tam White Face,” was the answer. ‘‘ Who is the Indian maiden?” ““T am White Fawn, the Spirit Rider of the Flying Indians!” the maiden replied, at which a startled yell pealed from White Face’s lips, a en Te eee See ee ee eed == ——— ee See SRA
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14 CHAPTER VI. A THIEF “PLANT.” Arter leaving the camp, Jack Mayburn and Old Hardnat trudged rapidly toward the Bend, through the early moonlight of the evening. A walker was the big Arizonian, as the cap- tain soon found out, for he was often obliged to trot to catch up with him, “ Yes, thet Cinnamon Chip ar’ a gal an’ a half,” the old scout replied, in answer to some previous question of the captain. ‘‘ She’s clear condensed dynamite, mixed up wi’ a little nitro- glycerine, and sum giant Le tedonge an’ when ye ch her off, she scatters things, I kin tell ye, amazin’ly. Fer instance, I see’d her walk inter asaloon upin Montana, a few months ago, an’ salivate two toughs wi’ an’ ounce 0’ lead apiece, all because they’d bin sayin’ unpretty things ag’in’ her honor. Oh! she corned them galoots down fine, an’ then she coolly turned an’ invited ther crowd ter ther same picnic, ef thoy war etchin’ fer etarnity.” t “Wonderful. I have reason to believe sho is the very person I want to guido my party,” Mayburn said. ‘‘ Have you any idea that she will go, Hardpan?” “Dunno "bout that,” the big Arizonian an- swered, thoughtfully. ‘ P’r’aps ye might caSch on ter her, ef so be she ain’t gone an’ tulc thet Sport, Rosebud Rob, in fer a life partner. She war keepin’ cluss ter him a spell ago, in town, an’ I ’spect she is struck after him.” “Humph! If it comes to that I'll take ’em both along. The Sport is no slouch.” “Right ar’ ye. Thet Rosebud Bob ain’t no galoot, nary a time, an’ yo'll do well to remem- ber it. He hain’t got quite so much wild devil in him, since he lost his gal, Bess, down in the Hills, but he’s got enough bonus fer a hull regi- ment, now.” “ This Bess—was she his daughter?” “Nary a time! She war sum sech a chara™ ter as Cinnamon Chip an’ I reckon she an’ the Sport w’w’d have got j’ined, only fer her recent death.” “This Cinnamon Chip—is she of good parent- age?” “Waal, neow, I reckon, I do. Thar’s ther old man war one o’ ther best trappers on ther frontier, an’ a good guide, too. Ther old woman died, years ago, an’ I never see’d her but I’ve heerd it allowed thet she war a good old critter. An’ when ye cum ter Chip, ye'll find her squar’ an’ honorable, even if she is a leetle rough and wild.” By this time they had reached the edge of the town, and passing along down the main street, they soon cams to the gambling saloon connec- ted with the Girard house. “T guess we'd better look in, here?” Mayburn said, leading the way. ‘Such characters as Rosebud Rob may be found, ’most any time, in such a placa as this—nob necessarily because they are gamblers, but because they constitute a part of the wild, ever-moving people.” ‘And the captain was not mistaken, in his ex- pestation. A Both Chin and Rosebud were inside—seated at a small deal table engaged at a social game of poker. : At the sight of Old Hardpan, Chip sprung Chip, the Girl Sport, to her feet and grasped his extended ho hand, with ari exclamation of joy. +, oe “Kerwhoop! may I be eengerel ag a hi to death wi’ grizzly b’ars, ef et ain’t thesno yowlin’ Tppoporas 0 ther Nor’west, cried, joyfully, ‘‘ Rosebud, my cherub, interdooce ye to one-o’ the toughest oli” in Christiandom, whose handle is Old Bed Rock, or any other pet attachment, scare up in an old spellin’-book!” ; Rosebud Rob acknowledged the intros by shaking hands, and also nodding urn. “You old night-bloomin’ serious, ho do?” Chip continued, effusively, putting foot and trippin Old Hardpan into “*T never was half so tickled |tous my life, hanged ef I was. almost eat yo. Howse fore, cometh: region?” rm “ Chip, my bl ther lower jaw sponded, with a ¢ be doin’, a-playin rds. Ww “Oh, D’ve doubled-up he’s distilled lightning, an town as durst tech: him; eternal constancy an’ frie gits inter a fight, t’other his hand on the defen Hardpan, I’m sorter mas Sport, an’ ’spect sum’ day sheer his joys an’ sorrersi?® And the eccentric Girl Sr Rob a bac por glance,ia tty mout i party, an’ P'llre a squar’ galoot, an”: So ef ye can strike a i “ Well, I opine we cam talk sented, lighting a cigarette.” her hands into her poe SOW pose ter perrigrinate to," Blondy™ : iggy “TJ am hunting for the ruined town extinct Indian race, which is this territory, and to contain: rich! gold,” Mayburn replied, ‘and haya lost my bearings, I am in quest of s who can guide me thither. Hardpan,t lieved that you could do it. and I came we could strike a bargain.” ( “T reckon thet won’t be much o’ a difficul Chip replied, thoughtfully, ‘‘ providin’ ye ter sheer ekally in the spoils, an’ take here, ‘long with me, as we’re goin’ ter hang in partnership.” “Certainly. I could work such a man Rosebud Rob in to good advantage, for I pect we shall have some fighting to do, befo we reach our destination.” ‘Yas, an’ heeps an’slathers of et, arter ye git thar,” Chip announced. ‘ Rather reckon ye'll come out ther leetle end o’ the horn, Blons4, dy, tho’ thar won’t be no harm tryin’, Noth ventured, nothin’ gained,” ;
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Chip, the Girl Sport. “Have you ever been to this place?’ May- burn asked, eagerly. “Yas, I reckon I hey,” the Girl Guide as- serted. ‘‘It warn’t more’n about a month ago > my anatomy war cavortin’ around, up r, “ An’ ye saw the ruined town on the top of a mount’in wich stood in ther center o’ a lake?” Old Hardpan demanded, excitedly. “Yes, Lopine I did,” and Chip spoke solemn- ly, ‘*I see’d all that and more too, but jest what, I don’t quite know. Thar’s a mystery about the place, an’ blest ef I can make head ner tail out 0’ et.” Pe you see the golden idol?’ Mayburn asked, “No. I didn’t climb ther mounting, nohow. My hair stood on end, wi’out venturin’ off from ther lake shore,” : “Did — seo the Spirit Rider and her band of ghost; y Apaches?” “Yas, an’ blazed away at ’em, but couldn’t score a hit.” “Now, after all that you have seen, what is your candid summary of the case?” » “Waal, sence ye’ve asked, an’ ye’re nearly as good-lookin’,.and ;mashable as Rosebud heer, Tl tell you; the stories about the gold in that mountiin I calculate are true. Et has evident- y, in.some remote age, been an Indian town. or in those long-ago days, the tribes built their homes like the woodchuck, in the ground, instead of on. top of it, as is evidenced in this territory by the frequent caves in the mountains. Mount Rosa, as et ar’ called, I phage contains a heep 0 caves, wich war ther village, fer an old tumble-down stone ruins of a temple o’ some sort is ther only thing on top o’ ther peak, now. As fer ther place bein’ inhabited wi’ rits, an’ bein’ ha’nted wi’ spooks an’ hobgoblins, hanged ef I quite know what ter say. I see’d sum things renough ter make a Napoleon light-headed, an’ I reckon thar’s critters hoverin’ around ther place, w’at ain’t natteral born citizens o’ this world,” “My informant told me that he saw spectral Indians flying through the air overhead, and fighting each other, and groaning and screeching ‘enough to scatter one’s courage endways,” May- burn said. “Yas, I see’d ther consarned things which had wings, an’ looked as big as giants, an’ they were seavortin’ thr’w’ the air in a way thet made mc shiver "way down ter my boots, although Pl sallow I ain’t werry cowardly. But I didn’t heer no groanin’ ner screechin’. But I opine thar’s “sum queer things thar.” “ Strange indeed!” Rosebud Rob said, “‘ and it was for the very purpose of solving the mystery that I came into this country. Ready am I to take a hand in the investigation, as I never saw a ghost bigger than a man’s imagination ' “se Will you guide us to the haunted city, Chip? ; “T. opine ye3, Robert, my Rosebud,” the Girl Guide replied. ‘‘ W’a’rsumever ye rotate will I perrigrinate, no matter ef et be inter ther region 0’the Nile, or the frozen region o’ North Pole- ‘dom. An’ ef ye’re afther wrasslin’ wi’ ghosts an’ 4 ae set me down fer an old-fashion side- olt s. 16 “Then I can depend upon you both, can I?* Mayburn asked. “Yes. How soon will you start?” *“Harly in the morning, if possible. I want night to find me many miles on my journey, to- morrow.” “Very well, I for one will be with you early to-morrow, and as for Chip, she will probably be on hand, as she is the the guide to our fates and fortunes,” Rosebud said, with a smile. ses, you bet yer boots Cinnamon cag be on deck reddy fer a ginnywine circus, Hard- pan, you old night-bloomin’ serious, are we to e favored wi’ yer company?” “Thet’s perzactly w’at yer ‘umble sarvent don’t know, Chip. I don’t know as ther captain kerries sech breed 0’ animals along wi’ his show or not. My bullfrog bazzoo, howsumever, I al- low might skeer off sum o’ ther ghosts.” “Of course I count you in,” Mayburn de- clared. slapping thee giant upon the shoulder heartily. ‘‘My expedition would not be com- plete without you. I will accordingly count you all in for an early start for Mount in the morning.” Then, accompanied by Old Hardpan, Cap- tain Mayburn took his ee and went back to his camp around the Bend. Rosebud Rob and Cinnamon Chip then finished their game, after which they separated for the night, the girl guide going to a room she had engaged in the hotel, and Rosebud going out upon the street, and around to the stables in the rear of the hotel. It was his custom to take a look at his horse nightly before retiring, to see that it had been well cared for and was all safe. But to-night, as he approached the stables, he thought he heard a restless movement among the animals, and a moment later he discovered that the door leading into the stables was partly ajar. ‘*Hello! I wonder who’s in there?” was his first muttered exclamation resulting from the discovery. ‘‘I don’t believe it’s any of the hostlers, this time of night. I reckon it won’t do any harm to investi ate, anyhow.” And drawing a_revolver in either hand, he stepped into a shadow, to wait and listen, for he was satisfied some strange person was among the horses. * For some time he heard the uneasy movement among the animals, as if they were afraid of something, and then came to the Sport’s ears sounds of murmuring voices, Evidently there were two persons in the stable instead of one. : With the untiring patience of a sleuth, Rosc- bud waited and watched, and finally was re- warded by seeing the door cautiously open. Then a man stepped out of doors and peared cautiously around. Seeing no one, evidently he addressed a few words some one within the stable, and a moment later a second individual rode from the stable on a horse, and the horse none other than the Sport’s own spotted animal, Circus. A whistle of amazement escaped Rosebud’s lips, but it did not happen to reach the ears of the two horse-thieves—for he had no difficulty in recognizing them as the bully of the town, ad
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16, Chip, the Girl Sport, pendy. Dell, and his half-breed companion, ynx, Evidently it was their purpose to steal the Sport’s noble racer, and run him off on the sly, where he could never be found. “T guess the course 1s all clear,” Dandy Dell said, addressing the half-breed, as he glanced sharply around to see if by any chance an ob- server was in the neighborhood. ‘“‘Be careful in going down the street, and if you encounter any sign of trouble, jest let the beast out. Go ahead, now, and when you have corraled the animal, return here.” “Hold on! don’t be so fast about getting off with my horse, if you please!” Rosebud Rob cried, stepping suddenly forward, and covering the two villains simultaneously with his revolv- ers. “I rather reckon Dll take a hand in this little game, and turn a couple of trumps at least!” . Guthrie uttered a frightful oath, and the half- breed whipped a pistol from his belt. But it was an unlucky move for him. Fora shot from the Sport's left-hand pistol suddenly caused him to throw up his hands, and tumble from his sad- dle with a fierce death-yell. Pa ““Mebbe you'd better follow his example!” Rosebud Rob said, turning coolly to Guthrie. **T can accommodate you, if you like, and save your neck from Lynch's noose!” : **Cuss ye, uo! I'll pass!” the bully cried, and making a sudden bound that the Sport had not been looking for, he cleared the nearest fence and darted away across the pat Once! twice! thrice the Sport’s pistol spoke in a deadly voice, and each time Guthrie flinched, but he finally got out of range and made for the fort at the top of his speed. CHAPTER VII. THE SPORT’S WONDERFUL DREAM. Tux Sport had scarcely ceased firing when Colonel Dick, the proprietor of the Girard, and several others made their appearance upon the scene. : “Hello!” the colonel exclaimed, seeing the Sport, the spotted horse, and the stiffening half- breed. ‘‘ What kind of a circus are you having out here, Bob?” “Oh, I’ve been trying my hand on horse- thieves,” Rosebud replied, ‘‘ whom I caught in the act of appropriating my cayuse. There's one of the results, and yonder goes another to- ward the fort at the top of his s , who, if you follow him up, you'll find to your esti- mable townsman, Dandy Dell.” “The deuce you say! And these two wor- thies were in the act of running off with your horse, eh?” “T opine they were, and as I have no mercy for a horse-thief, I just relieved the half-breed, and—let the other cuss git away, with several ounces of lead in his system.” . “Good boy! The only fault is that you didn’t drop the dandy, too.” “Sorry myself that I couldn’t have completed the job,” Rosebud Rob returned. ‘ But, as I am going to take a skull down to the fort and pack yet to-night, I may have an opportunity.” “All right; and ef ye get in trouble down there, jest give a Comanche screech, and th hull town will come to your rescue!” bluff, big hearted Colonel Dick said. Rosebud Rob sprung upon his horse, wh was saddled and bridled, and dashed away of the town and down toward the fort. feo Dandy Dell had by this time reached it, and was nowhere to be seen. + ae On arriving at the gate, the Sport ened tered a guard, who leveled bayonet, and. manded to know what was wanted. s ‘“*'You open the gate and get out of the or Ill durned soon inform you,” and Rose drew a revolver. ‘‘I want to see th and the healthiest thing you can do is fo s him to me.” . Ste se “Can’t see him,” the guard ‘re in his room, n s.gout, an turbed. Won't the “No, sir, the lie him several better gates, I say, and: take general’s room—I’ll do; see that my horse is ready out again.” ‘ A gleaming aix-ehooHs man is often a great indu felt that the best thing for,him “ ie! Ascending a flight of} s story, the guard showed him: by the general, and then too! Trying the door,. Rose and entered without ce The general ,) corpulent limbs was engaged in smoki looked up in evident-g Rob entered. —7 “Pray sit still and do not be phd said, reassuringly, as he coo! y e self to a seat, and lita cigar, ‘‘I just ¢ in to have a little chat with you, ca your own welfare. I perceive you are suffer from the affliction commonly called go “T am, sir, very true. I have been and troubled with it for over three mont “ As I supposed. Now, General Hi do not suppose you put any faith in d there is not one in a hundred that does, Stil have had a very remarkablo dream concernin you, and if you will but give me your ki attention, I will relate it to you, as Ibelieve yo will be interested.” od ‘Go on, sir. Although the matter of dream is the least of my troubles, I will listen to you, “Then I will proceed. To introduce mysel my name is Robert Mapleton, but for short am called Rosebud Rob. My business is) to rove around, and observe things, genera and when I can expose a crime or bring, criminal to justice, I generally make it a poin to do so. A couple of nights since, while,” camped upon the prairie, a matter of forty miles from here, I had the very singular dreamy) which I am about to relate, In listening tom R
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. Chip, the Girl Sport. i? | my recital, you will please bear in mind that » at the time of the dream, I had never heard of ou, and only: knew this fort had existence, by earsay. ° | ‘The first part of my dream opened in this fort, and. in this very room, which, strange as it may seem, had the same appear- ance in my dream as now, ‘You were reclining “upon yonder couch, reading, when a young lady entered, robed in a riding-habit, and pre- sented you with a box of cigars. You accepted them, with thanks, and then the lady reti to ? another room. In my dream, curiosity impelled me to follow her. “Tn the next room she met a man, who looked at her inquiringly. “* Oh! it’s right,’ the lady said, with an evil: laugh; ‘he accepted the cigars, and was highly pleased. The case is progressing finely.’ ‘«The general has no suspicion that it is not gout that is troubling him, then? the man b, asked. “*Certainly not. The doctor has assured him that it is gout, and he believes it. Indeed, it has every resemblance to gout, and will con- tinue to have, until he has finished smokiag the see box of cigars, when there will be a cHange; his whole rap Bade swell rapidly, and he will bloat up until there will be a closing of the’ windpipe, and he can no longer breathe! “Tt is a hellish way of getting rid of a per- son,’ the man said, with a shudder. “But safe and ‘sure,’ the young woman re- plied. ‘Once the general begins to bloat no medical power on earth can save him, as his system will be too full of the deadly poison in- haled from the cigars. The man who furnished me ‘with the poison, was a German chemist, un- al whose tutelage I was placed, in New Or- leans, ‘“**Has the general made his will? the man asked, eagerly. : is Yes, long ago, and our only hope is to keep in his yraces, so that he will not change it,’ was the reply, ‘“Then it was, General Howard, that I awoke, with the likenesses of yourself and that other man and woman engraven upon my memory. Now, sir, what do you think of it?” “My God, man, this is the most astounding thing I ever listened to!” the general gasped, leaning forward, his face colorless, and y tao bearing a wild, frightened expression. ‘‘ Are ou a human being, or are you some infernal hing in the guise of a man, come here to tor- ture me with this frightful story?” ‘*T have never had reason to believe that I am other than a mortal of flesh and blood, the same as other ge abet on this earth,” Rosebud Rob replied, with a smile. “And you tell me that you dreamed what pa have just related, and that you had never eard my name or seen me, at the time of the dream sir?” “Exactly. After the dream, I was so im- pressed with its vividness, that I inquired the way tothe fort, and to-day, at the races, you may imagine my astonishment to see the three characters of my dream in flesh and blood, and one of them. On hearing your name, and that you were afflicted with gout, I was still further impressed, and finally, but a short time ago, [resolved to pay you a visit, and here f am!” The general leaned back in his chair, and breathed heavily, his eyes glaring at the Sport, in an awful manner. ‘“T—I dare not ask you the names of this woman and man?” he gasped, trembling. “IT knew no names, in my dream, but when I saw the same faces, here at the races, I took — to inquire. Your name, I found to be eneral Howard. The woman’s name is Mvelyn Howard—the man is called Dandy Dell!” Rose- bud said, calmly. The general bowed his head crd groaned aloud, at the announcement. Evidently he kad been expecting it. After «while he looked up, a haggard expression upon his face. ne had itis terrible. And to you, young man, I believe I owe my life!” he said, slowly, as if in extreme agony. “Then my dream has been an actual reality?” the Sport demanded. : “Only too true, sir. Tho commencement of my gout-like affliction dates back to a few days after my daughter presentcd me with a box of fine cigars which she had purchased in New Orleans, on her return from school. They were choice ones, and as I am a great lover of the weed, I soon had them all smoked, and request- ed Evelyn to write for some more, which she did. It was when I was midway in the first box of cigars that I felt the initial commence- ment of what I have supposed to be gout, and what the fort surgeon has assured me was gout. Since then I have smoked two more boxes, and the yout has increased; and now, I am on the fourth box, and—” $5 mar yen OE you are upon the verge of the ave!” Rosebud Rob declared. ‘‘ How many ave you smoked out of the fourth box?” ‘Only a half-dozen.” “Then by stopping immediately, there may - be some hopes of your life. But, by all means, beware of what ou eat, drink or smoke here- after. The lady I know nothing about, but the man, Dandy Dell, is a thoroughbred villain. Only to-night I caught him and his associate, the half-breed, in the act of stealing and run- ning off my horse. I dropped the half-breed on the spot, but the Dandy got off with a few bul- let-wounds.” ‘*Did the rascal come here?” ‘Tn this direction, sir.” ‘Very well. I will see to his case directly. And as for you, Mr. Mapleton, if you will name a compensation for your trouble, I will gladly honor it, besides being forever indebted to you in gratitude. e “Ha, ha! you don’t know me, I reckon, gen- eral,” the Sport replied, laughingly. ‘‘I*don’t dream such dreams for money, but for the sake of humanity. Keep your money; I don’t want it. Your gratitude will be ten times more val- uable to me. And now, having done my er- rand, I will go.” “Not until you have promised to come again, and share the hospitality of my quarters, where you will ever be welcome,” the general said, warmly grasping Rosebud by the hand. ‘‘ Your strange revelation caused me to regard you as. ; EAA SEES AN a NES Aa FEE AR INET pate st
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18 a modern prophet, with the power of a true seer, “T shall be happy to look in upon you again, on my return from a trip to Mount Rosa,” Rob replied, cordially. ‘‘And in the mean time, look out for this daughter and nephew of yours, for they certainly mean you ill.” “T will do so, you may be assured,” the gen- eral replied. And then, shaking hands again, Rosebud Rob took his departure, feeling sure that he had | made at least one friend in Bummer’s Bend, in addition to saving one life. And after the Sport had gone, General How- rete sat in his chair, a stern expression upon his ace, “T am in the light now,” he muttered, in a husky voice; ‘* but for the Sport I should soon be beyond human aid. Curse thee, Evelyn—curse thee, Adelbert Guthrie! Iam armed now, and methinks you shall find it out, to your very cost! A startled yell it was that pealed from the Apache's lips, and one fraught with terror. Rvidentl the White Fawn was a creature whom he held in greatest awe, for he trembled like an aspen. ‘Let the White Face fear not,” the maiden made haste to say, on perceiving the chief’s hor- ror, ‘‘ for the White Fawn comes not as a foe but as a friend, from the Happy Hunting Grounds, She has sought for White Face because he is a mighty chief, and has many brave warriors at his command.” ‘ The chief brightened a little at this, although he still regarded the White Rider with fear. “The White Face has many warriors,” he re- lied, proudly. ‘‘ What would the Spirit Maiden have?! “Much. White Fawn is the queen of the Phantom Apaches, who hover about the ancient Indian city of Mount Rosa, Has not White Face heard of the place?” “ Ay! White Face has seen tho mountain in Spirit Lake, but the Great Council Chief told him not to approach near, lest the rocks should suddenly turn into a destroying army of devils, who would sweep White Face from the land!” . “White Face did well to heed the advice of the Great Council Chief,” the maiden replied. “But White Fawn has come to the White Faco in trouble. Strangers are about to invade the domains of the White Fawn, and steal the precious gold that the Council Chief, Manitou, planted there. These strangers are several in number, and their scalps are ripe for plucking. But White Fawn’s spirit warriors want no scalps, and their thirst for bloo/ is, for the time being, quenched, Therefore, White Fawn comes to her Apfche brother of the flesh and blood, and beseeches him to take the war-path against the ale-face strangers who would commit sacrilege in the land of the White Fawn.” ‘“Whits Face has heard,” the Apache replied, “and he will do his best to please the White Fawn. Let her point out the invaders, and my warriors shall immediately go upon the war- path against them.” “Tt is well, and White Fawn is pleased. When White Face comes again to Spirit lake, Feo Chip, the Girl Sport. he shall be received with all honors, ‘The ase faces whom White Fawn would have met are those around the Bend. Does the ite Face know?” ‘““ White Face knows where!” the chief replied. Then White Fawn turned her horse, and rode, rapidly out of Black Hollow. Ny CHAPTER VIII. EN ROUTE—SOHE BIG COUNTS—A CAPTURE. Brrore day-dawn on the morning succeeding the night of which we have been writing, Dandy Dell met Miss Evelyn Howard near the outskirts of the town. She was mounted upon her bay mare, and was enveloped in a rubber coat, “T have been looking for you,” the Dandy said, motioning for her to stop. ‘‘ Everything: has gone contrary and against us.” ‘What do you mean?” the general’s daughter demanded. “What ails you?”—for Guthrie’s left arm was bandaged up, he limped in one leg, and wore another bandage across his forehead. “Oh! I've got pretty badly bruised up,” he growled, ‘Lynx and I attempted to capture the spotted horse, when Rosebud Rob came sud- denly upon us with twenty or thirty men, and we had to fight for it. drop six, right hand running, and then got off with the damage ‘ou_see.” ‘What became of Lynx?” ‘He dropped at first fire.” ‘* And you didn’t get the horse?” “Of course not. One man could not very well take it away from a score,” “Not such a man as you, probably,” Miss Howard replied, with a sneer. ‘‘ What else has happened?” “Something that will prevent your return to the fort, I calculate,” the Dandy announced. “The general has got his eyes open, and don’t take any more stock in imported Havanas.” “The devil!” was the woman’s ejaculation. “Yes—the cat's entirely out of the bag,” Guthrie replied. ‘The Sport, Rosebud Rob, has just been to see the general, and has told a strange dream he pretends to have had, the re- sult of which was that you andI were engaged in trying to poison the old man by giving him poisoned cigars.” ‘* And the old fool believes him?” “Of course; and the hang of it is the cursed Sport described the present and future symp- toms of the case exactly as you described them to me.” A low, fierce curse escaped the woman’s lips. Her face grew stern and almost hideous in its ex- pression. “Curse them both!” she gritted between her clinched white teeth. ‘‘I am foiled in the one thing, but they shall not cheat me in the rest. T'll have old Howard’s gold, even if not by ac- tual inheritance, I'll steal it!” “Bravo! You talk likea martyr! I admire your pluck, and if you want to go halves with me, I'll be with you.” ; “Of course—but not now. We must bide our time. In the meanwhile, we must prevent the Mayburn party from reaching Mount Rosa.” “ How? “ By playing the part we so well know how to play. We must balk and foil these curiosity Be
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Chip, the Girl Sport. : i9 seekers at every turn. Come! There is no time to be lost.” » _ “Right you are, for they will pull upstakes at daylight snd take the trail, having secured the services of Cinnamon Chip and Rosebud Rob to go with them.” “Curse you, Dell Guthrie! I ordered you not to let the Girl Guide and Mayburn meet.” “T know you did, fair cousin, but I was un- able to obey your mandate, inasmuch as the held a larger hand of cocked sixes than I did. But never fear. Wecan make them sick ere they’re half-way to Mount Rosa. Eh, ma belle Evelyn?” _ “We can try—must try!” the general's daugh- ter replied, with a fierce, set look in her face that boded ill to her enemies. The first stredk of day-dawn in the east re- vealed an active bustle in the camp around the Bend, and by the time the sun loomed up over the horizcn, like a ball of molten fire, the tents had disappeared and the saddles were filled, and pack-horses loaded with the paraphernalia. Among those in the saddles, most conspicuous for her bright loveliness and a queer character, was Cinnamon Chip, She seemed in her ele- ment, mounted upon a fine horse which Captain Mayburn had provided for her, and her merry laugh rung clear and musical upon the bracing “morning air. Of the others mounted were Captain Mayburn, Old Hardpan, and the Dutchman, negro, China- man, and ild Bill Marion, Rosebud Rob had not yet made his appear- ance, and it was for his coming that the party waited. “T cannot see what detained him, for my part,” Mayburn said, impatiently. ‘“ Unless he shows up pretty Fg I shall start on.” ‘Whar fer?’ Chip demanded. ‘For Mount Rosa, and the golden idol.” “Then, Uae perrigrinate wi’out me, an’ don’ ye doubt it!” the Girl Guide said, evidently in dead earnest. “Boo bas rid k rthly pil ‘eca'se on’t make nary an yea: pil- image, wi’out thet fragrant blossom, hoses ud Rob.” a saul Am I to be detained, on account of im ‘“‘T re’kon ye air, ef ther old court knows her- self. Cinnamon Chip am I, right up frum ther Black Hills, an’ I do sw’ar an’ asseverate thet I won't budge a ha’r’s-breadth, ontil Rosebud ar’ ‘ wi ther gang. Ef ye opine yekin find Mount Rosa ’thout me, jest sailright on, an’ I’ll anchor, i, until my pardner shows up. What d’ye 8a “Hold! yender cums ther Sport, now!” Old Hardpan announced, pointing toward the Bend, where a horseman had just come into sight. “Keerect! thet’s ther swebt-pertater o’ my life, sure pop. Forward march! strike fer ther town, an’ then [ll lead off, wi’ two aces an’a pack 0’ knaves!” Cinnamon Chip shouted. And accordingly the cavalcade swept away toward Bummer’s Bend, making rather an im- pening spectacle, as they spurred along over the evel prairie, Then straight up through the main street of Bummer’s Bend they dashed two abreast, and on out of the town to the northward. As soon as they left the town, Cinnamon Chip took the lead, and they pressed on into mic- prairie. Even as a floor stretched out the vast expanse of prairie land before them, and with the bright, warm sunshine showering down, the scene was one most beautiful. : Chip kept a short distance in advance of the rest, and thus they rode on until the sun was at its noonday hight, when a blast from Captain Mayburn’s bugle ordered a noonday halt. is was made on ‘mid-prairie long enough for a general feed of of horses and men. “How roe days are we from our destina- tion, lady?” Mayburn asked, as he finished nib- bling at his dried buffalo-meat. ‘‘ This country is so fair that I really could wish that the jour- ney was a long one.” “Oh! you'll get enough of it, before you sight Mount Rosa,” Chip reassured. ‘‘ Ef ye don’t, set me down as a first-class beat. “Twixt now an’ to-morrow night thar’ll be heaps of music in these yere lattytudes.” “ Music?” “Ves, music. Ye'll heer all sorts o’ tunes, sech as ‘Put me in my little bed,’ an’ ‘See’t my grave’s kept green,’ ter be sung wi’ Apash ac- companiment,” ee i . “Waal, T reckon, Apash abound up on thes Soca thicker’n fleas on a red dorg. Eh? oe aig you old blister-plaster—ain’t thet so “Yes, Chip, my hollyhock; Apash ar’ ex- ceedin’: ay up hayrabouts, durn my old frog- bazzoo, ef they ain’t. Seen as menny as fifty thousan’ of ’em at one time, all performin’ a war-dance.” “Git out! Fo’suah, dat’s no circumstance. While you’se drawin’ de long bow, why not make a big one!” exclaimed the darky. “Yes; thet’s the ticket,” captain Mayburn cried; ‘‘let every man, woman and child do something in the way of a ate to digest the meal. For instance, let’s all give a truthful statement of just how many of the red Becouins of the West we've slain, single-handed, in one day. I think some of the gang can contribute some pretty big figures. For myself, I have killed and scalped six of the heathens in one day, single-handed, and alone.” “Pshaw! dat’s nuflin. I’se killed as high as thirteen, an’ it wasn’t much of a day for Injines, neither,” exclaimed the darky. “Well, that is a fair day’s work, I should say, Jerusalem. Dutch, how much can you raise him?” “Oh! I haff kill so high as fifdeen in vone hour und dree quarters, und perried ’em all mit der ground!” the German replied, swelling with importance, “Worse and worse. Hardpan, you are the Bigger. liar in the crowd—what can you do for us ‘ “Bt ve want ter know of one solid day’s work of ther great frog-faced bazzoo o’ ther They soon met Rosebud Rob, who wheeled his | Nor’west, jest thar am I. Et’s an actooal fact, horse, and joined in with them, ’yees, wi'out any veriation frum ther scrip-
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26 Chip, the Girl Sport. tooral truth, thot I hey started sixty red heath- be op their speeritual pilgrimage, in one day! : “You pass, don’t you, Chip?’ the captain said, turning to the Girl Guide. “Yes—I won't take the cake away from Hardpan,” was the laughing reply. é ‘How about you, Rosebud?” ‘*T, too, pass; never indulged any higher than one,” the Sport admitted. ‘Well, I guess Hardpan is bound to have the an,” the captain decided with a smile, ‘ un- less, mayhap, Wild Bill or Pigtail Pete, here, can do something for us. "What do you say, Pete?” ‘* Me no killee [Injun,” the Celestial responded with a dubious shake of his head. ‘‘ Me no killee Injun—run muchee fastee from Injun, al- lee samee.” “Well, well, I guess it is left to Marion to cap the climax, yet,” Mayburn averred. “Come, Bil]—tell us your best day’s average.” ‘“‘No! no!” the Avenger exclaimed, a gloomy expression flitting across his swarthy face— “T never counted the number, for fear of being struck blind.” A shudder seemed to run through the frames of the listeners—there was something horrible in the meaning of the words, and none. who had ever heard of Wild Bill Marion could doubt that he had killed and scalped more indians than any other man on the border. A silence of several minutes was finally broken by Captain Mayburn. ‘‘ You spoke of Apaches, Chip,” he said, turning to the Girl Guide. ‘‘When, and where do you expect we shall encounter them?” ‘Most anywheres, "twixt here and Mount Rosa,” was the reply. ‘‘ Ef ye see’em at all, it will be on horseback, an’ about fifty milyun on ’em at that.” “Then we must watch sharp, every man, and prevent a surprise, which would surely cripple us,” the captain warned. After the horses had grazed for an hour or more, a mount was ordered, and the cavalcade of adventurers was soon dashing away over the prairie, due north, Cinnamon riding in advance with the grace of a gazelle. No halt was made until sunset, when they sighted a small prairie motte, and aimed for it, as a camping spot. On arrival, they found that the timber cov- ered less than half an acre, and was watered by a little prairie stream, making it a choice spot for a camp. ‘* Good place for a camp—darned likely place fer Apash,” Wild Bill Marion cautioned, when they had dismounted and struck camp. “Yes, an’ ef we don’t see a red sun afore mornin’, set me down fer a candidate fer next President,” Chip asserted in all earnestness. To which Old Hardpan nodded his head, as- sentingly. Indeed, it seemed a prevalent expectation among the adventurers that there would be trouble with the reds, before morning. The camp was pitched in the northern edge of the motte, and two tents erected—one for the Girl Guide, and the other for the male portion of the company. : iy “By Jove, they are white men, i 0 Indians,” Mayburn cried, as he stepped in to thi light of the dying camp-fire: and surveyed two prisoners. ‘‘ Where did .yor chaps, boys?” on ‘“Oh! ve caught hime prowli: outside off de grove, unt ve t petter capture hime, und bring camp in, youst fer de shoke of de man explained, CHAPTER IX. NIGHT VISITANTS. THE two prisoners were as nearly u the eccentric pair who had captured them far as personal appearances went. ies The. German’s captive was an elder] with iron-gray hair and bearded face, ani the dress and bearing of a traveling ¢ler man. Pe His companion was a younger person, $9 about six-and-twenty years of age, with an feminate countenance, shaded darkly; b) § eyes, closely-cropped brown hair, and a sligh } mustache. ee His dress was of stylish light diagonal cloth well fitted, and patent-leather slippers fit his small feet, and a silk hat upon his head, «. Both men carried weapons, and the elder oni a rough sachel, which evidently answered { carry the paraphernalia of both. uF “Verily, my good man, thou wilt not suffe: us toremain in the hands of these rough an lawless men?” the elder prisoner said, turning to Captain Mayburn. ‘We are shepherds of th Lord’s flock, an’ cometh into the land of thi Philistines to gather around us a fold.” ne ‘“‘T reckon, boss, ye’ve struck ther wrong <li
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: mate Le yer partickler biz!” old Hardpan *” “ Nary a sheep ner a lamb will ye git in this kentry, onless it be a mountain billy goat, or a “yowltin’ coyote.” ‘‘Nary a lamb!” accorded Cinnamon Chip, leaning upon her rifle. ‘*T opine, stranger, ye hain’t struck a werry saintly crowd.” ‘*Nevertheless we falter not, but plant our platform, and hoist the flag of the righteous on the breeze,” the elder prune said, solemnly. * “Thou art not human if thou wilt not listen to the words of the gospel.” ‘‘Mebbe we ain’t!” Chip replied, with a low laugh. ‘‘ Eh? Rosey—my blooming bud, what’s your inventory o’ thet crowd?” “T rather suspect that the elder party isa humbug!” Rosebud Rob replied, decidedly, ‘TI don’t like the cut of his nib, exactly, but have seen worse-looking clergyman. Say, old Rock of Ages, what’s yer introduc?” ; “Young man, thy flippant tongue betrays a calloused heart; moreover, thou art a scoffer, As for my name, if that is what you ask, it is the Right Reverend Harvey Hannibal Fish astor of the Jerusalem Orthodox Church, at erusalem Center, Madison county, Injeanna.” ¢“* Whew! and who is the effeminate rooster with the stove-pipe hat, and diagonals?” ‘*That, sir, is my son, Charles Augustus Fish, presiding elder of the Jerusalem circuit.” “ Bot five ter one he can’t lick a crippled mus- keeter!” Chip wagered. ‘I say you, Charles Augustus Daisybeau, did ye ever sculp an Apash?” : ‘The Lawd forbid!” the younger Fish gasped, putting up his hands, in horror. ‘‘ Compare me not, strange woman, with the Philistines of the wilderness!” . Keerect! don’t mix that galoot wi’ our fae 0’ disciples!” grunted Old Hardpan. ‘‘ We don’ want no craw-Fish pilgrims wi’ this command, nohow,.” Gentlemen,” Captain Mayburn interposed, scrutinizing the new-comers with a keen gaze, ‘your coming here is most inopportune, as we are on the eve of an expected battle with the Apache Indians, and must use every precaution. Not knowing who you may be, we must bind qos and hold you as prisoners, until after the “Thou art over-wise, my friend,” the Rever- end Harvey Fish replied, piously. ‘Surely we, the servants of the church, would not seek to bring thee harm!” “ Neither would a coyote chaw terbaccer, ef ie didn’t get a chance,” was Hardpan’s sugges- ion. “Ner a Greaser steal a horse, if he didn’t know how,” Chip chimed in. “You must either submit to be bound, or go whence you came,” Mayburn announced. “Tf you’re clear timber, you ‘won't suffer—if you turn out treacherous we'll most likely hang you to one of these trees. Boys, you may bind them, hand and foot.” Ready hands were there to assist in obeying - the captain’s order, and in a twinkling both of a vd mragelcrs were upon their backs, securely ~ pound, bo Chip, the Girl Sport. 21 Jerusalem and the Dutchman were then sent back to their poets and Wild Bill volunteered to act as guard over the prisoners while the re- mainder of the p: turned in for rest. And although they retired to their respective tents, they were uot allowed to enjoy undis- turbed repose, for about midnight the German came rushing into camp, followed closely by the darky. ‘Gott in himmel! dar vas so many ash sixteen tousandt Injuns out mit der prairie!” he panted er eaene, wildly. ‘‘ Dey vos comin’ straight or dis camp, quicker ash lighdning.” “Yah! yah! dere’s a hull regiment of de dirty imps fo’ suah!” Jerusalem averred, wildly. ild Bill motioned for them, to be silent, while he listened. It took but a moment for his quick sense of hearing to distinguish a dull thud upon the prairie. Stepping first to one tent then the other, he shouted the single word; “ Injuns!” in a clear ringing voice, and it had the effect to bring the adventurers quickly to their feet. i us of the tents they came, weapons in and. ‘““What is the matter, now!” Mayburn de- manded, glancing around. ‘Injuns!” Wild Bill replied, laconically. “Listen, if you don’t believe it.” They did listen, and heard the jarring noise of horses’ hoofs. ‘Indians, I guess,” Mayburn admitted, ‘‘ and unless we get to business, we’re likely to be in here for some time,” wee are you going to do?” Rosebud Rob asked. “Fight, of course, You take Cinnamon Chip, Wild Bill, and the Dutchman, and Ill take Hardpan, Jerusalem and Pigtail, and we'll go to the southern side of the motte and meet the cut-throats, If they surround us, string out your men around to the west and north, and I'll meet you from the other way.” “Tf we can help it, not a red-skin must gain entrance to the motte !” “T reckon we can fight our share, anyhow!” the Sport replied, confidently. “On course we can!” Chip assured, with a flourish. ‘‘Sech lights as Wild Bill, Rosebud Rob, Fritzy, heer, an’ my humble self, ain’t no less’n a hull hoss brigade, when ye git our mad up! “Ye ain't no sarcumstance ter ther great disaster composed o’ Cap Mayburn, ther great skyrocket, Jerusalem Bundy, ther crape-tinted shadder o’ destruckshun, Pigtail Peter, ther roaring equinoxyull thunderstarm o’ Chiner, an’ Old Hardpan—thet’s me—ther great frog- faced prickly cactus-stalk o’ ther Peruvian de- sert. “ Forward march!” Mayburn ordered. “Hark! don’t you hear the devils yell? It’s time we were to the front, now!” A hasty departure for the southern border of the motte, was the next action of Rosebud Rob and Mayburn at the head of their respective bands. The distance was short, and they soon arrived at the edge of the timber, where a strange and unrelishable scene was presented to their view. The night was a beautiful one, with a full
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22 Chir, the Girl Sport. —_—_—_$_ — SO moon soaring in the dome of the blue sky, rivaling the brightness of the stars. Out upon the prairie, about a half a mile from the motte, was along line of Indian horse- men, just now at a standstill, the moonlight glistening upon their weapons, which consisted of rifles and lances. A great number of them there were—probably a hundred, all told, and they looked grim and fierce as they beheld the motte. “What do you suppose is the cause of their halt?’ Mayburn asked, stepping through be- tween the trees, to where Rosebud and his party had taken a stand. “ Rather Ne they’re debating on the feasi- bility of making an attack, or else they’vo sent out spies, whose return they are awaiting,” the Sport suggested. ““T opine thet the last is about the fit!” Wild Bill said. ‘‘Hither they’re waitin’ ter find out our forces, or are layin’ sum Injun trap with which to capture us.” “Mebbe my eyes ar’ sharpest,” Chip cried, suddenly. ‘Don’t ye notice two empty saddles back o’ ther main body o’ savages?” “Sure enough, there are two empty saddles; but how do you account for that?’ Mayburn queried. “Tl show you pretty quick, a3 soon as I find a red nigger’s head peepin’ out o’ the grass,” was the reply. The hint caused the others to watch with more alertness. If spies were creeping toward the motte through the tall prairie grass, it remained for them to discover and silence them, to insure their own safetiy. For an hour they remained silent and watch- ful, and the line of savages maintained their position, as motionless and grim as though sta- tionary monuments. / But suddenly, when the watching was growing exceedingly monotonous, Cinnamon Chip raised her rifle and fired. Crack! went the weapon, and a moment later a terrific death-yell was heard, and a savage was seen to spring into the air and fall back, not a hundred yards from the motte. ‘“Thet’s ther way ter pull their eye-tecth, I tell ye!” the girl guide chuckled, replacing a fresh cartridge in the magazine of her hand- some Winchester. ‘Yes, and you have set the ball a-rolling!” Rosebud Rob replied, pointing toward the main body of savages. ‘‘See! here they come, lick- ettiy scoot!” Tt was even so. No sooner had the death of the spy been an- nounced by his wild yell than a chorus of wilder yells arose from the throats of the halted red- skins, and simultaneously they spurred their horses forward toward the motte. Wildly they rode, a full hundred, moking an imposing spectacle, for with military precision they rode abreast. “Took sharp, now!” Rosebud Rob cried, in a shrill tone. ‘Fire as soon as you can reach em, and don’t waste a bullet, or your goose is cooked!” Every member of the Sport's party grasped their rifles firmly, and waited for the red Be- douins to come into range. Not long were they in doing this, and then as if by agreement the eight repeating rifles of the pbb spoke simultaneously in a volley of eath. The effect was immediately made apparent - by eight riderless horses dashing ahead in ad- vance of the main band, and by ear-splitting screeches on the part of the uninjured savages, as they came on. Again and again did the rifles k, ten times in succession, and hardly a bullet failed to score a death or a disabling injury. Three-quarters, at least, of the savage horde had wilted before the terrible fire of the plucky adventurers, The effect upon the rest can bet- ter be imagined than described. Panic-stricken. they wheeled their horses and lashed them back from the hotbedfof death, un- til th y were out of rifle-range. Then they halt- ed for an instant to gaze back over the corpse- strewn battle-field; after which they galloped away in a due southerly course. “That's the end of our danger from those * varmints!” Old Hardpan exclaimed, as, with Mayburn and the others of his party he crossed over to where the Sport’s party were stationed; ‘but didn’t we sock et to them, my geelorious pilgrims? Waal, now, I ruther reckon we did. A st aight hundred ter eight war thar, ef I ain’t a liar, an’ we jest annihilated ’em till thar warn’t skeercely enuff left ter make a decent shadder. Ye did yerselves honor, but great- est of all ther Romans were me, ther Great Frog Face of the North!” On returning to the camp in the center of the motte, the adventurers were surprised to find that the two stragglers had in some mysterious way cut their bonds and were gone! How they had made their escape, or where they had gone, was an enigma that investiga- tion failed to solve, and so they soon dropped out of the minds of the party. A guard was again stationed, but no renewal of the attack occurred, and the adventurers were permitited to sleep undisturbed until morn- ing—all except Cinnamon Chip. She retired to her tent, and was in a first drowse, when she was suddenly awakened by something cold touching her forehead. Onening her eyes, sbe beheld a man in a black cloak and mask bending over her, and per- ceived that he held the muzzle of a cocked re- volver pressed against her cheek. ‘Sh! he cautioned, in a low tone. ‘ Make the least noise and I'll blow vour brains out!” “What do you want?” Chip fearlessly de- manded. ‘I reckon you’ve got the wrong pig by the ear this time!” “Oh! no,” the stranger answered, softly. “You are Cinnamon Chip. What I want to know of you is: what was your mother’s maiden name?” “T don’t know.” “ Look out! Don’t lie to me or you'll be cheat- ing vourself. Was not her first name Mary?” ‘““Tt was!” Chip replied, in astonishment, “Mary Oshorne?”
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Chip, the Girl Sport. £3 ““T do not know. My mother died when quite er “Very well. Keep my visit quiet, and you will see me again. Jam trying toaid you in re- covering lost rights.” Then turning, suddenly, the masked stranger darted from the tent. Chip sprung after him, but too late! He had already vanished in the darkness. Early in the morning a mount was made, and the trail was resumed. Wild Bill remained behind at the motte, prom- ae to join the cavalcade about noon, which he His remaining behind was a mystery, but all suspected that his object was to obtain and cache the scalps of the slaughtered Apaches. All day, steadily, the cory rode on until, when the sun was setting, Cinnamon Chip utter- ed an exclamation and pointed ahead: “Look! look!” she crjed; “‘ yonder is Mount Rosa, and Spirit Lake, not a mile away!” CHAPTER X. AN UNEARTHLY MYSTERY. “‘HoRRAH! hurrah! Mount Rosa!” echoed Captain Mayburn, joyfully, swinging his hat in e@ air. , Far ahead loomed up the long-looked-for sight, a large round mountain, hundreds of feet in hight, tapering from a monster rugged base to a narrow , Which was obscured in a cloud of fog, and the whole rising out of a silvery body of water, to whose very edge the prairie extended. And, most remarkable of all, the prairie encircled around the lake, and stretched on in an unbroken expanse, no other mountain oe with the natural wonder in Spirit 2. “ Hayr we ar’!” old Hardpan exclaimed, “ wi’- in earshot o’ ther consarned place, an’ now whar’s yer speerits an’ hoggobblins?” “Yowll see them soon enough!” Cinnamon Chip averred, as they rode on at a gallop toward the goal. ‘‘ Ye won’t git a peep at ther consarned anymiles ontil it cums night, an’ then ef yer ha’r don’t stand on end,I’ll buy the wet groceries fer ther crowd. Oh! ye needn’t grin, an’ purtend ye ain’t afeard, fer ye'll see sights over yonder thet’ll fairly make ye jingle!” ‘Well, that is precisely what we are after, I calculate,” Mayburn protested. ‘‘The more ghosts, the merrier. ere is the best place to camp, Chip?” ‘‘T dunno that, until I explorate a little,” the Girl Guide answered. ‘I reckon, tho’, thet one place is about as good as t’other.” A short ride brought the party upon the southern shore of the lake, where they were en- abled to make closer observations. The lake from the shore to the mountain was a half: a mile wide, and to all appearances very deep. The water was clear as crystal, and fish could be seen swimming around in it in large numbers. From:the base, the mountain rose nearly per- the time it met the fog which enveloped the “What is the cause of that fog?’ Captain Mayburn asked, as he gazed upward. “It ap- pears to hide the peak.” “‘The cause I ain’t enuff o’ a philosopher to explain,” Chip replied, ‘* but in daytime the fog is allus thar, from sunrise till sunset. That's what makes it so difficult to find Mount Rosa. Ef it warn’t fer ther fog ther top o’ ther peak could be seen fifty miles away. As it is, a per- son kin pass wi’in six mileso’ heer, wi’out notice- in’ ther mountain.” “Thet’s a fac’,” Old Hardpan affirmed. ‘Ef it weren’t for ther fog, ther peak ked be seen more ner fifty miles away. But I'll be teeto- tally cussed fer a frog-faced fright, ef I evyer hev see’d a ghost, an’ I’m anxious ter git a peep at one o’ ther consarned critters.” “Wait!” Chip said, curtly. ‘I'll bet six aces an’a jack ag’in’ the board, thet ye’ll see one skeart Hardpan, d’rectly.” A dismount followed, and a reconnoissance was made for a suitable camping spot. A few rods up the lake-shore the fringe of tim- ber began, but on consultation it was decided not advisable to camp under cover, but to re- main upon the open shore, where all was clear, and it was easier to observe what was going on. The tents were pitched, and the horses staked out, near by, to ; then several camp-fires were built, and the party were installed in their new camp. By this time it was growing dusk, and with it the e tations of the adventurers were aroused, for what would be the issue it was hard ‘to conceive. A close watch was kept upon the mountain and the lake, but no sign of life was seen. As the sun went down the fog gradually dis- appeared, and the peak of Mount Rosa became visible, far, far up toward the starlit heavens. Upon the extreme top appeared the ruins of what had evidently been, in some past age, a stone temple—a granite roof supported upon stone pillars. The roof now, however, had partly caved in, and some of the pillars remain- ed standing like grim sentinels, guarding the ruins of the dead city. Altogether it was an imposing sight, and the eight adventurers sat and viewed it with silent awe, after an evening meal had been prepared and partaken of. “Cum! cum! I’m waitin’ fer ther music ter strike up, so I kin dance wi’ a full-blowed rit!” Old Hardpan said, with a chuckle. “Ef I ain’t mistaken, I kin wrassle wi’ ther best speerit in thet mountain. I’m a reg’lar hoss fer dancin’, an’ I’d as lief dance wi’ a speerit as ary other mortal, so long as et keeps step.” ‘Ye won’t hev long to wait,” Cinnamon Chip answered, keeping her eyes fixed upon the mountain. ‘*The moon’s coming up, and I'll allow ye’ll see sights pretty quick.” “Correct, and it behooves us all not to get scared at whatever we may see,” Captain May- burn said, earnestly. ‘'I am not superstitious, and I believe that though we may see things pendicularly to an enormous hight, the taper so ; that appear unearthly, it is all a humbug, man- q gradual as to scarcely be noticeable, yet narrow- ing down to less than half the size of the base by aged by parties that are alive as we ourselves. e haye come here to investigate this thing,
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24 Chip, the Girl Sport. ” and if we calculate to succeed wes oe to keep a stiff upper lip, and laugh at apparent spiritual manifestations.” “That's the ticket exactly!” Rosebud Rob coincided. ‘‘It must be a very bad ghost that frightens us away. And I opine there won’t be any ghosts walking, to-night, that we can’t ticle with a good leaden pellet.” ‘Shoot me fer a dorg’s mother-in-law ef ye skeer this great frog-faced bazzoo,” Hardpan grunted. “Heer too!” Chip accorded, ‘‘Mebbe I ain’t bigger’n a pint o’ hard cider, but [ve got grit enuff ter run'a steam-engine, when ye git my Irish up, an’ don’ ye doubt it.” ‘*T pass!” Rosebud Rob said. ‘If any of These remarks ended the conversation for | will tell me what it is, Pll give it to you, over an hour, during which the adventurers all “T don’t want it!” Cinnamon Chip repli watched and waited with feverish impa-| Evidently she and the Sport were tience. of the lot. s : 2 : Tho moon rose grandly in the starlit heavens, “Look! look! there it goes but soon became obscured in a mass of clouds | burn cried, exci) Cia that rose and rapidly covered the sky, making.| And so it did. the night black as Egypt. ‘““Té was on sum sech a night thet I was heer before,” Chip observed, ‘‘ only a little darker, if anything. h! did you ses thet?” There was no neel to ask—all did see it, and shrunk back a little; a sudden flash of crimson fire seemed to blaze around the top of the peak for an instant, then disappear as quickly and mysteriously as it came. “Thar! that was the initiatory fireworks!” Chip protested. ‘Yes, but there was nothing about it that the ingenuity of man could not invent!” Mayburn reassured. ‘*Thusfar— Ah! thunder!” The latter inelegant expression cams in a startled manner from the captain’s lips, and was echoed in similar cries by the others. Now they had something of the ghostly order “What was y: —something too horrible to be anything but | Guide asked, turn supernatural. In the air, not a dozen fest from “T don’t know. the captain, apparently, it appeare1 —the | we see the end of ghastly outlines of a ce face, surrounded “ And you, Wild by a halo of whitish light—a horrible haggard “T opine twas th vilyn face with skin drawn tightly over the skull, the | the Avenger assumed. 9!" = eyes sunken and glaring, the mouth stretched “Yaw! vaw! It vas der tuyfel ina horrible grin, exposing two rows of fangs | cided. ‘‘ He vink his eye mit der ©! frightful to behold. f say ‘ Peder, my poy, better ash ho There in mid-air appeared the awful thing, | mit me, yust once!’” oe: without visible means of support—a terrible “ Nixy! nixy! muchee no go tod spectacle in the blackness of the night. tail Pete protestes shaking his hi Brave man though Captain Jack Mayburn ee goodee, allee samee!” was, he shrunk back with a horrified gasp, and “Oh, yes! yer a double-distilled the others were not slow in following his ex- | air, jest like l’ma fu’st-class beauty,” pan grunted. ‘‘ But, I say, pilgrims,'w be did? Ye don’t purpose ter squat ari these unearthly parts any longer, do ye?” ‘Certainly we do,” Rosebud Rob ‘assi “We ain’t going to be scared away b ghost, nor a dozen of ’em, but are going to a Beg on this line, if it takes all winter “Tt’s no use, boys; we've got inter a gh nest, an’ we may as well say our catechisms, an’ turn up our toes!” whined Old Hardpan. se “Curse the bei Vl try my hand at it) Rosebud Rob griti “ Spook or no spook, VL perforate it!” 3 ne And raising his rifle, he fired seven sho’ after the other at it, in rapid successio: And the answer—was a wild, shrill unearthly in its tenor as to cause the * to shudder. And still the terrible face ed stationary. Evidently it was uselessto ‘oe to harm it by all the bullets in Ch om. oe The little party v it was ge there * Well, what do you Chip demanded. ‘‘Mebbe™ kin a boperipee a ‘It war a ghost—great yo yes!” Old Hardpan declared,: w: nod. ‘*Durn me fer a frog: didn’t stiffen my old ha’r’ right luk at ther consarned thing,”}” “ Why didn’t ye git up ant Wal z man?” Rosebud Rob asked, ‘with a Ja “ Waltz wi’ thet speerit?' Hi pump hash ag’in ef ye ket waltzin’ wi’? enny sech ample. : “My God! shoot the thing—it is looking ‘straight at me!” Mayburn cried huskily. “Cuss me if I won't fix it!” Wild Bill Marion answered, and waippiig out his revolver, he sent six bullets speeding in rapid succession at the phantom head. Throughout all Arizona was he noted as a ‘ dead-shot. And yet not a bullet out of the six “‘T opine!” the Avenger assented, curt] appeared to take effect, for the apparition re- ‘“* An’ them as wants ter crawfish, can mained motionless, the eyes seeming to wink in 4 an’ huff et out of camp ferall they’re their sockets. Chip declared, decisivety. “Gott in himmel! dat vas der tuyfel!” burst ‘* No crawfish ober dis way!” the from the lips of Fritz, in groans of terror. “Not any for Yarmany!” cried Fritz. “Much-ee big spook—oh—o—oh!” gasped the | ‘* No muchee crawfishee!” announced P Chinaman, ’ “Who in thunderation wants ter cray
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Chip, the Girl Sport. 25 Old Hardpin growled. ‘I reckon I hain’t as | head and finish the job,” the Sport threatened. f much as sed single fish, Allowin’ et be an onhealthy latitude fer saints, I ain’t a-goin’ ter back, not much for Liza Jane. Et would luk nice for me, ter squntepucker, now, wouldn’t et? 3 Topine Old Hardpan ar’ heer.” “Good! I admire your resolution!” Maynard was pleased to say. ‘‘ Although what we have just seen was of a nature calculated to arouse a rson’s superstition, I guess if we git at the ottom of the mystery, we'll find that we’ve been humbugged by a simple trick.” ““Mebbe so, but how d’ye account fer thet speerit in mid-air?” Hardpan demanded. “T cannot account for it Bi iaperty A at present, but hope to ere long. Ah! look! look! we have not seen all!” The captain pointed up toward the peak of —— Rosa, and all gazed in the direction indi- cated. The sight they saw was not calculated to inspire them with fresh courage. n the air, about a hundred yards above the peak of the mountain, phantom figures of Apache warriors, seemed engaged in conflict, as revealed in a halo of whitish light that sur- rounded them and the top of the fe dozen of them there were flying about through the air, without apparent propelling | power. Thin shadowy figures they were, armed with lances, which they darted at each other with ap- parent fury; the faces were those of brutal-look- ing savages, and the bodies barren of all raiment except the breech-cloths, Fiercely waged the contest, each one seeming | to fight the other with irresistible fury. For some ten minutes the phantom contest seemed » to wage hotly, and the awe-stricken band of ad- venturers upon the prairie gazed in fascinated wonderment at the unearthly tacle. Suddenly a band of white horsemen seemed to rise up from the top of the peak, and approach the fighting t grog with leveled rifles—a dozen, all told, the horses superb-looking ani- mals, and the riders headless bodies, arrayed in _ flowing robes of purest white. A sudden dash there was, and the fighting spirit oe vanished; then the spectral horse- men suddenly seemed to change their aim to- ward the watchers in the valley below. The next instant there was a sharp rattling report of several rifles, and then came the fa- miliar Teutonic voice, in a despairing cry: “Gott in himmel! dunder un’ plitzen! I vas killed so deader as six t?ousand sardines! Helb! helb \ Oh! o-o-oh! I vas killed deader as a her- ring! CHAPTER XI. A HEALTHY GHOST. ' “Oach! dunder unt plitzen! I vas kill, I tell » you!” Fritz roared, rolling and kicking about on . the ground like a fish out of water. ‘I vas hit _ mit moré ash sixdeen places!” ‘ “That's nothing; some of the rest are hit, I b it, Shet up, now, or I'll whack you over the om guess, but don’t make such a blasted fuss about ‘“* Hello, pilgrims—any the rest o’ ye hurt?” “T got a slight scratch on the tip of my elbow, just enough to set my crazy bone a-howling!” ayburn replied, with a grunt. ‘** And I got pasted one right atween the eyes, but my skull was fortunately so tough thet ther bullet flattened wi’out doin’ any material dam- age!” and Hardpan blew his nose vigorously. ‘“* Hello! Chip, how are you?” “Oh! I’m all right side up wi’ care, Rosy, an’ don’t ye doubt it. No gebiogeleat am I ter wilt at sech a fire as thet.” * And you, Wild Bill?” “T opine 1 got asmall bite on the end o’ my nose, jest enough to ruffle the skin!” the Aven- ger replied, whereupon there was a general laugh. ‘Tt ain’t o’ skercely no account though.” “It’s lucky no greater injury was done. When specters ride through the air on white horses, an’ plug us wi’ solid Jead bullets, it’s about time to begin swearing,” was Rosebud’s view of the case. ““Yes. Tork about yer not b’lievin’ in speerits an’ hobgobblins, gentlemen—what in thunder dye say ter w’at we've jest seen?” Hardpan de- manded. “* As for me; I don’t know what to say,” Cap- tain Jack replied, dubiously. ‘‘ Although I ain’t no b’liever in spirits, ghosts, and all that fol-de- rol, I'll ‘low there’s some mighty strange sights been seen here to-night. We all undoubtedly saw the same condemned performances in mid- air, an’ ef they wasn’t spirits, what in thunder were they?” “That's just what I’d like to know,” Wild Bill added. ‘Sart‘inly, humans can’t float around through the air, ner hosses tread cn it, onless they be lighter-weights than a feather, an’ ef they warn’t humans they must have been shadders from t’other world, I opine.” “That seems the only reasonable way of view- ing the case,” Mayburn confessed. ‘Still, I cannot bring myself to believe that there is such a thing as ghosts.” “On course they war ghosts, an’ ef we don’t make ourselves skeerce around heer, I opine dur carcasses wull be food fer coyotes an’ buzzards,” old Hardpan putin. ‘‘ When ghosts ride right thr’u’ ther air on hossback, an’ fire cff their guns like natteral mortals, I opine we ain’t got no show at all, an’ had better slide out on ther first breeze that comes along.” “Not much, ’Liza Jane! We warn’t brought up in ther wood to be skeart out by owls, an’ I opine we adhere ter this spot!” Chip said, firmly. *““What’s a few ounces o’ lead, compared wi’ millions 0’ shinin’ gold? Ther system thet can’t stand a piobatnet cannon-ball ain’t fit fodder for a decent alligator!” ‘*Gents, I’m as much for ee rig maces this infernal mystery as any one, but I’m a little afraid we've tackled a job too large for us.” “Maybe so, but I for one am going to stay pd see it out, if I lose my scalp!” Rosebud Rob said. ‘“* And here too!” Chip declared. ‘‘ Wharever ther Poseybud stays will ye find me.” The others did not join in this determination. Evidently they were undecided as to what course to pursue, ee
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26 The disposition was strong on the part of all save Rosebud Rob and Cinnamon Chip to leave the vicinity of the haunted mountain and lake forever, but their resolution to remain seemed to deter the others from breaking away. The night wore away without any further spiritual demonstration on the part of the phan- toms of the mountain, and the dawn of another day was eagerly welcomed by the httle party on the shore. Breakfast was prepared from a quantity of fish that had been caught from the lake, and after 1t was partaken of, a general consultation was held in regard to what was best to do, “For my part, ’d suggest that we get back to Bummer’s Bend as soon as practicable,” was Captain Jack’s idea. ‘I don’t see that we are going to accomplish much staying here, and as for amusement, I am satisfied with what woe have recently enjoyed. A. little of that same goes a good ways with me.” “Then you, too, are struck with the supersti- tious fever, eh?” Rosebud asked. “No, not exactly; but Pll admit that my anti-faith has been a good deal jarred up by what I’ve seen, and it is all quite beyond my comprehension.” “That may all be so, and it is liable to remain a mystery; and I for one am going to solve ib, be it the work of a lifetime. Iam not at all terrified by what I have seen, and to root right into the facts of the case is my intention!” this was Rosebul’s decision. “Well, I suppose if you remain, we all will, anltrus$ to luck. What do you propose? Dll put you in command of the future movements.” ‘“T propose to make an ascent of that moun- tain to-day. You all can do the same, but must work separate, and climb up from different starting- oints. This is necessary; to prevent a fight with our unseen foes. They cannot watch us all, at once, and in this way we can eventual- ly reach the top of the mountain.” It was so decided, and according to Rosebud Rob’s orders, the party separated and assumed eight different starting-points for their danger- ous undertaking, thus approaching the moun- tain from as many directions of the comvass. The Sport, Cinnamon Chip and Old Hardpan took respectively tha northeastern, northern and northwestern approaches, while Mayburn had the eastern, Wild Bill the southeastern, Fritz the southern, Pigtail the southwestern, and Jerusalem the western. “Spare no red-skin!” the Sport ordered, as they separated. “If we do, we may as well hang up the fiddle.” “Jest my ijeer perzactly!” Old Hardpan as- sented. ‘‘ Wipe out every pesky hornet ye meet, an’ then thar’ll be plenty ter stock ther market wi’.” Rosebud Rod had taken for himself perhaps the worst rouse. as the watery body was wider at this point, and once across the water the mountain appeared more steep. But he cared not for this. In his life of adventure in the wilds he had met with many mountains more inaccessible and had scaled them, sometimes because of a force of unpleasant circumstances over which he had no control. Chip, the Girl Sport. To get across the water was the first thing to’ do, and he looked around him in search of some: — mode of passage. To be sure, he could swim,) but this was not desirable if he could discoveny any other way of getting across, for the waten, of the lake was icy cold. bags Careful search revealed to the Sport: ithai there was ae Foe one way, and he accordi prepared for his bath. oman was he to hesitate on trifles, e they were of good size. ah Securing his weapons safely, he plunged solutely into the water, although the. conta caused him to shiver, 3 He was in hopes that he might beable to” walk across, but soon found out different, ! when: a sudden step-off was the means,of duc i in Aah bao waves, a | r ist n his return. to ,the. mantully, be Although he exp dled with bullets ty he was happily the shore of the mount it could be designated foothold, et From tho base, nearly the pile of mountain rock: to ashi hight, covered only sparsely with shit bushes of a dwarf kind, and, too, the only occasional chances to gain a foothd “Tho next important thmg, is‘ to Rosebud Rob decided, “and, judging: fr appearances, a fellow needs to be an adhesive plaster to stick to these rocks. ‘ But, Irecly can go up them, if anybody can, and I: may well commence the circus, first as last, for got to be did.” vats First removing his garments, he wrung water out of them as best he could,: and donning them again, he began the ascent; From shrub to crevice he travelediimpwa catching onto whatever presented itselfyand it drawing itself on upward. ak | In this way he worked for several; hour pausing only long enough to.get breath) nAt end of the third hour he found himself hal up the mountain-side, and also discovered: he could go no further on his route. ran Above him the crevices ceased, and nob grew so that there was nothing to clingt climbing, the rock being smooth and even. Puzzled was the Sport to know how + ceed, but he finally decided to keep arotin mountain to the northern side, and find ou’ Cinnamon Chip was making it. Following a narrow projection or ledge toiled on, slowly, and in due time arrived up the northern sida, and came to where Chip w: resting and eating a lunch of dried deer-meat. © ‘Hello! what’s the matter, now?” she aske as the Sport approached. ‘Anybody sick ‘or killed over your way?” j “Oh! no. I can’t get any nearer heaven’ that route, and thought I’d try your cou Rosebud replied, with a smile. _‘‘ How is it? “Mighty tough climbin’ ef I know myself the Girl Guide replied, ‘tan’ I opine I do. Buty I guess we can get up, if we hang to it, auything from the rest?” “No! not a squeak,” ato t eard D:
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4 . Chip, the Girl Sport: 27 ee After Chip had finished her lunch, they con- tinued up the mountain. It was toilsome work, and they were often obliged to pause and rest as instead of growing easier, the route appeared to grow steeper and harder of ascent, “Do you er we'll get anything ter repay us for our trouble?” “Yes,” Rosebud asserted. ‘We will get some experience, if nothing more, and experi- ence, nowadays, is valuable, Besides, I opine welll unravel the mystery of all this funny business concerning ghosts and spirits. My | candid opinion is that these spirits are the hum- buggery of a party of consummate rascals who have a secret mine in this mountain and resort to this scheme to scare intruders away.” ““But how about ther ghosts? Ye don’t cal- F Rie no humans can cayort around in ther air liké thet, do ye?” ‘No, There is something about what we saw that I can’t understand. I believe, however, that we can satisfactorily solve all to our sat- isfaction, when we once get at it.” __ In the mean time tes a Jack was having a little adventure all by himself. . After separating from the others, he swam reat and began to climb the mountain. ot more than half-way up the dizzy declivity did.he get, however, when he heard a voice, and saw a woman standing a little above him, holding a revolver leveled at him. ' “Stop!” she said, sternly. And Jack, of course, halted. The spot upon which he had halted, was a » little plateau or ledge, surrounded on three sides by a dwarfed growth of firs. The woman with the revolver stood not over a dozen yards away. She was attired in a rich Indian costume, was ‘slightly above the average hight of women, and remarkably py although her dusky features were molded after a haughty fashion, and her eyes glittered with a fire of imperious- ness. Somewhere, Captain Jack fancied he had » seen this nut-brown maiden before, or some one greatly resembling her; but just where, he - could not tell for the life of him. » “Well, miss, I am halted!” he raid, raising his hat, politely. ‘‘ What way can I serve you? “Best by romaining where you are for the present!” was the decided atl “ What brings » the pale-face in the land of the or ge oal ; ' ‘Well, miss, [ reckon curiosity, as much as - anything.” **But does not the pale-face know thaf he is in the Spirit Land where no living being is “permitted to roam?” aa be hanged! Do you call yourself a spiri _.“T am White Fawn, the Spirit Queen of Mount Rosa!” was the haughty reply. “Oh! you are!” Jack said, with a contempla- _ tive whistle. ‘* Well, Pll allow you are about _ the healthiest spirit I ever encountered.” “What does the pale-face mean? There is sarcasm in his words. Does he doubt the words _ of White Fawn when she says she is a spirit?” ‘No, miss, I don’t doubt your word, in the least, but I believe you lie!” was the ranger’s blunt declaration. ‘ You might as well try to shake this mountain with an earthquake as to stuff me up with any of your gas about ghosts, and the like.” A strange laugh escaped the maiden’s lips. ‘*Perhaps!” she said. “* Anyhow, what brings the pale-face to the forbidden land?” “As I told you before, curiosity, and also a desire to examine the golden idol!” ‘“Then, the pale-face has erred. In comin hither, he hes placed himself at the mercy at White Fawn. This is her land, and she guards it with fire and steel. No pale-face who comes here, and is captured, ever goes away alive!” “On! they don’t eh? Well, then, according to your words, I might as well consider myself a sigs eh?” “The pale-face adventurer’s life is in White Fawn’s hand, and only one thing can save it.” “Well, one chance often turns the game. Speel out, if you’ve got any prop’s.” “White Fawn will not kill the pale-face on one condition—that is, that he will marry her, and with her share the secrets of Mount Rosa. She has taken a fancy to him, and would not kill him, except to guard her secrets. Will the pale-face accept the terms of the White Fawn?” CHAPTER XII. CONCLUSION, Captain JACK gave vent toa peculiar whistle of surprise. Here was wooing impromptu, and under very forcible circumstances. To marry yet awhile, was not in the ranger’s calculation, but evident it was, now, that he had only two chances—one for life and the other for death. In no way was death a welcome visitor, but Jack was ae how to avoid it, except by cy li the Indian queen, as she termed her- self. ail reckon, miss, that I ain’t in the matrimo- nial market,” Mayburn said, by way of prolong- ing the interview, in the hope of seeing a cor- ner for escape. ‘‘ You wouldn’t want a man that’s got a wife and fifteen children, would ‘“The White Fawn cares not; she has set her heart upon the pale-face adventurer, and would moke him her chief. Come! let him decide at once—promise solemnly to become the husband of White Fawn, and never betray her secrets, or the secrets of this mountain—or, die !” ‘* Well, I reckon it’s Hobson’s choice, either hg Jack replied, doggedly, ‘an’ rather than to die, I guess I'll take the worst of two evils.” “You will marry the White Fawn?” “‘T opine yes, rather than to shuffle off this mortal coil. Go ahead with your ark, and we will follow.” “Good! Let the pale-face first throw down his weapons, and then follow the White Fawn.” At first Mayburn hesitated about this. It was his resolve to accompany the Indian maiden to her destination, but about throwing down his weapons and disarming himself was a different thing. By accompanying the queen he could learn the secret of the mountain; and then run his chances of escape, better than now, when White Fawn covered him with her weapons.
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28 Chip, the Girl Sport. ‘Why throw away my weapcn, if Iam to accompany you and enlist in your service?’ he argued. ‘The pale-face ranger is a great shot, the White Fawn has heard, and she would thor- oughly test his faithfulness, before trusting him with weapons in his hands,” was the reply. “Let him cast his weapons down, and White Fawn will see that they are secured, to be placed in his hands, at an early day.” “But, how about my companions, who came with me into the Apache country?” Jack de- manded, warily. ““The other pale-faces must go back to their lodges!” the maiden said. ‘‘ They shall receive a message from you. warning them to leave. If they refuse they shall all die.” ‘“Keerect, you hold the biggest number of tricks, and { shall have to submit to your will, I ga was tho ranger’s rejoinder. ropping his rifle upon the plateau, ho next drew his revolvers, and dropped them, but only one of them reached the ground. The other slip- ped into the wide i of his cavalry bootleg, and sharp though were the Indian maiden’s eyes, she failed to notice the fact. A clever trick it was—one that the adventurer had performed successfully several times before. Next he cast away his knife, and then turned to his captor. “There! my weapons are out of my reach— now lead ahead, and I will follow.” “Tt is well. Let the pale-face follow the pho: Fawn, and she will conduct him to her odge.” Jack did follow, and they toiled on up the mountain-side. ‘Tedious was tho ascent, but the Spirit Queen held on with light tread, and in due time Jack Mayburn found himself upon the top of Mount Rosa! Safe and unharmed, and upon the pinnacle of his aspiration. The top of the mountain was a sort of level table-land, of less than an acre in extent, and mt the center stood the ruins of an ancient tem- ple. Six huge columns of carved stone towered like grim sentinels against the sky, the roof having partly fallen in and been cleared away. The fog that enveloped the top of the moun- tain was so dense that Mayburn was unable to see through it to the prairies below. Eagerly, however, did he use his eyes about him, and with only one result—that of seeing the famed golden idol. In the center of the temple it stood, upon a small granite base—a small statue, about the size and hight of a six-year-old child—a perfectly carved image, to all appearances wrought from a block of solid. gold. Jack gazed at it sharply, and perhaps a little longingly, for if the idol were, as it appeared, of solid gold, he knew that it was worth no insig- nificant fortune. But White Fawn interrupted him. “The pale-face must submit to have his 7 eS blindfolded,” she said, ‘‘ before going fur- er. “Allright. Anything to suit,” Jack assent- ed, allowing her to proceed. ‘‘ You've got it all your own way.” White Fawn bandaged his eyes so that'he could not see; then seizing him by the arm,’ him forward. For several steps they proceedéd: and then, after a moment's pause, began: scend a stone staircase. NOTE This was to Jack’s utter amazement, for | had seen nothing of the kind while on¥ plateau top, and knew that it must have-cot menced from there. o Ge Down, step after step they went, seomingly into the bowels of the mountains; then, after’a space of five or ten minutes, they stopped scending, and White Fawn led what he calculated was a passageway. They presently reer from: the into what was evidently a‘large subterr chamber, judging bythe loud f. ore. . ere they paused, and the b moved from Jack’s eyes, 0 What he beheld on looking some degree a foretasteof whai The heart of Mount-Rosa/ was and he now stood within it- * gas The cavern was a huge a + dl dently in some distant day ‘been’ the’ bed: ot voleano, as the rocky sides and the lofty, rugged ceiling had left indications of former lava secre- tions. The floor or bottom of the cavern was sandy and rogers in spots, and covered an area of ten or twelve acres. Be At the further side men were engaged in digviy? ging with pick and shovel—men in top-boo corduroy pants and woolen shirts, who wore black full masks, slouch hats, and were ari to the teeth. i Other portions of the mammoth volcan cave were used as gee mk evidently,’ there were fire-cranes, skin couches, rude and stools, and the general paraphernal camp. The only light afforded was by a la fire that burned up in the center of the emanating apparently from a vein of ng gas. In former days this had no doubt b torch that had supplied the fire to the int mountain eruption. f “The pale-face is in the Spirit Land ‘ White Fawn!” the Indian girl said, waving hand. ‘He isin the great secret gold-mines | Mount Rosa. Look at me, Captain Mayburn= dost think you have ever seen me before?” “7 Jack Mayburn did gaze into her face, seare) ingly, but finally shook his head in a puzzle manner. fi “No, I reckon not. There is something fatil iar in your face, but I cannot recall the place have ever seen you,” he replied. ud et “Then your memory must be sadly at fault.{ > But, let me tell you, you need not be ashamed; of your bride, for as aristocratic blood flow: . my veins as in yours. No Indian am I, n spirit, as you probably have guessed, and whew I first set my eyes on you, I resolved to pos you, for you are the only man my heart hi ever warmed toward—the only man I wi marry. Look sharp! do you not know me?’ am Evelyn Howard, the general’s daughter!” We lett Rosebud Rob and Cinnamon Chip still climbing up the mountain, : dott | ack through’ ee a: bos ook Ee SS eb ee es
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Chip, the Girl Sport. 29 «* The ascent was tiresome, and often they were ‘obliged to pause and rest. In one of these pauses a man came suddenly from the bushes and confronted them. It took but a glance on the part of either of } the adventurers to recognize him as General Howard, of Bummer’s Bend, - “Hello!” Rosebud ejaculated. ‘‘Who have wo here?—General Howard, as I live!” “Yes, it is I,” the officer said, coming nearer. “T saw you coming up the mountain, and wait- ed for you. What brings you here?” “Well, that's rather a difficult question to -answer,” the Sport replied. ‘‘ I should define the case as a dose of curiosity, adulterated. with a few grains of adventurous spirit, anda natural desjre to harvest gold shekels,” ‘You think this ghost business is but a blind to cover the secret of a gold-mine, then?” “Well, yes. I opine that’s about the size of it. What, may I ask, brings you so far from the fort?” ‘Several causes. I have come here in pur- -suit of the heartless woman fiend whom I have all along called my daughter.” Rosebud gave vent to a little whistle of sur- rige. RG She has come here, then?” “Yes, I have trailed her and her confeder- ate, oa nephew, to the edge of this lake, and there lost track of them. Where they have flown to is a mystery I have as yet been unable to solve,” ‘Perhaps they are some of the ghostly appa- von that haunt this vicinity,” the Sport sug- yested. a That they are in some way connected with the mystery of this Mount , I have no doubt,” the general averred. ‘‘ Since I have had my eyes opened, I have learned that many days and nights when I have supposed Evelyn ‘to be safely housed within the fort, she has been absent unknown to me. As I have traced her here, I have no doubt that the wayward child is into deeper villainy than that ef which she has been detected.” } ‘From what you say, I should infer that she isnot your own child?” Rosebud Rob half queried. “No, she is not my own child, although I have réared her from early childhood as such. I adopted her from an old hunter who had more little ones than he was able to support.” “Then you have no child of your own, eh?” “Ay! 1 trust so, my friend, although I have no definite proof of it. Years ago, I was separ- rated from my wife by foul stories’ that were circulated against me by an old enemy, who had been my rival in love affairs previous to my marriage. Unfortunately my wife believed the lies, and with our child, then an infant, left /my home, and I never could get certain trace of cher thereafter, although there came a vague Tumor once that she had married an old trap- ‘per up in the Nor’west. Of this I could not learn for a certainty. and I have ever regarded my wife as dead. But a few days agolsawa face in Bumimer’s Bend that was a duplicate of that of my lost wife, and the sight of it filled me ‘with the belief that in it I saw the face of my 5 9 Nor am I convinced that I am mistaken me ye c : ‘Who was the person, may I inquire, whose appearance so impressed you?” the Sport asked, with interest. ‘* She is the same young woman who is your companion, here—Cinnamon Chip, I believe she is called,” the general said, pointing to the Girl Guide. Chip gave vent to a little exclamation of rise, ‘** You believe me your daughter, sir?” she ejaculated, her face flushing with pleasure. ‘*T candidly do, although you are a wild, un- trained blossom, grown up in a desert wild,” the general said, calmly. ‘ Your features bear a striking resemblance to those of my long-lost wife, and something seems to tell me that I am not amiss in my belief that you are my little Eva, who was ruthlessly snatched from my arms, seventeen years ago.” = Waal, now, this gets me, likea brick, blamed if it don’t!” the Girl Guide exclaimed. ‘I calcu- late you be the same snoozer who visited me in the —— camp a couple of nights ago, then?” ‘*T am the same.” “T thot so. S’posin’ I am your darter—are yegoin’ ter hitch onter me as relations, install me as queen ©’ aces at the fort, an’ b’ist out thet other gal who’s been fillin’ the gap?” “Of course. If your identity can be proven, as ig daughter, ycu shall be recognized as such by me, with a joyful heart,” the general replied, earnestly. ‘Well, I propose we drum up the affair at once!” Chip said, with a smiling face. ‘I ain’t no objections ter claimin’ you as a yarent, cause T’ve allus reckoned I were from purty fine stock, an’ thet would go ter prove tke con- clusion. But thar’s one thing which, ef I’m made out Ng daughter, thet ye’ve got to prem- ise, afore I'll recogy yer claims.” “IT presume so,” the general caid, smiling. “ Name it, please.” ‘‘ Well, ye’ve got ter agree ter take in ther Sport, here, too. “You see we collided up at the Bend, and yoked up as sorter pards in this trip, an’ I'll allow ef I go over ter ther fort to queen it, Rosey, here, must king it, ter make things balance. Thar’s no tellin’, you know, if things jibe karect, but what we may eventually yoko up fer good.” A ‘Seo here, I reckon you’re rushing things a little,” Rosebud Rob demurred,smiling. ‘‘ You’d better make the bargain before you make the | annenncement, hadn’t you?” “Ch! Tl manage that, Rosey. Ther present ease before ther grand jury is ter decide whether you are to be taken in along wi’ me by the gen- eral. if so be I’m his darter!” “Of course!” General Howard decided. “If you are pards now, I shall not interrupt your compact. As to your identity, [remember that when our little Eva was horn, she had a small black mole upon her right shoulder—the only mark, by the way, that we could find. Perhaps you can tell if you have the only clew that there is to identify you by.” ‘*T have the mole npon the right shoulder, and Lalso think have another and stronger clew,” Chip replied. ‘‘ Among effects left at the death of the man I always supposed to be my father, was a small likeness which must have been my a St SS = tae yg Heese Pa Nast sepa es Oe
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30 mother’s, when she was a little girl of ten or twelve years. Perhaps if you knew her when she was small, you might recognize the picture.” ‘* Ah! where is the picture? I knew her from early childhood, and no doubt the picture is of my fs lost wife!” the general cried, excitedly. ‘T have not the picture here, but {can get it when we return to the Bend,” Chip replied, ‘I trust and hope that it will prove the missing link, Anyhow, until the proof is established, 1 shall count you my father, and am sure I can fill the place of the scheming woman who has held a false so long, as your daughter.” Considerable time had been spent in the con- versation, and Rosebud Rob now suggested that it was time to move on, so the ascent of the mountain was renewed. The general was lame and illy fit to climb, but the Sport and Chip assisted him. At last the journey was finished, and they stood on the top of Mount Rosa, far, far above the level of the Arizonian plains. Not alone, however, for Old Hardpan had ar- rived ahead of them, and Wild Bill Marion, Fritz, Jerusalem, and Pigtail Pete soon made their appearance from the mountain-side, “Now, here we are, all except Captain May- burn. What bas become of him?’ Rosebud asked, when all had gathered in the ruined tem- lo. oi Oh! he'll be along, no doubt, directly,” Wild Bill said, encouragingly. ‘Very true, and we may as well prepare to make ourselves at home here, until he comes, as there don’t seem to be anything else to do.” Accordingly they did preparé to make them- selves at home. A meal was made out of such edibles as had been brought along, and eaten with relish, After they had finished eating, and were in the midst of a consultation, all heard a footstep, and looked around to behold a man standing near one of the huge pillars, and that man none other than Dandy Dell Guthrie, the general’s nephew, An exclamation of surprise burst from the lips of the adventurers, and weapons were quick- ly drawn. ‘* You may as well put up your tools!” he said. “JT do not come as an enemy but as a friend, and as a betrayer of the secrets of this mount- ain. If you will listen I will briefly explain. “The mountain, here, is a spent volcano. An ancient tribe of Indians built a temple upon the top, here. A few years ago a paying gold-mine was discovered down in the bosom of the hill. For over a year this mine has been in the pos- session of myself and the general’s daughter, Evelyn. We have hired trusty men to work it, and also to work the ghost business, which I map as well tell you, has been manufactured by the aid of a cleverly contrived magic lantern and ghostly slides, All this time I have been promised that Evelyn Howard would become my wife, but to-day she has captured your leader, Mayburn, and unless prevented, will compel him to marry her, before the hour is over. We have had a quarrel, which has in- duced me to come an‘ betray the secret of the mine, on condition that you will permit me to go my way, unmolested.” Chip, the Girl Sport. “That is not for us to say!” declared Rose- bud Rob, “General Howard is the maniyou have to look to for mercy.” oh “Tf you will go and never show your villain- 77 ous face in this part of the country, agaiz. withdraw any objections to your departi the general said, gravely. Lot ‘“ Which I cheerfully promise to do,”: Giithr answered. ‘‘Come! If you wish to save:yoy captain from a forced marriage with a fema devil, come with me, with weapons ready 4 fight, if it is necessary.” ae And turning, the dandy touched the pillar) near which he stood, and a door flew open, re-) vealing that the pillar was only a wooden one, and hollow. Following, the adventurers enter- ed the pillar, and descended a rugged staircase, through what had once evidently been the flue or chimney of the volcano. = A Soon they arrived in the great inter-mountain © chamber, and just in time, for a significant scene was presented to their view. Bra ds The masked miners were formed in a circ with drawn weapons, and inside the ring stood Captain Mayburn, Evelyn Howard, and an- other masked individual, who held asmall Bible, “Decide!” the woman’s clear voice was heard to exclaim. ‘‘ You have but a minute to deci between me and death!” fe “Tl bet ye lie, and leave it ter yerself!” Cin- namon Chip cried, springing forward, with the others at her heels. ‘Throw up yer hands. every mother’s son o’ you, or we'll fill yer car: casses so full o’ electric shocks that ye'll be too paralyzed ter reach the gates cae 4 Down wi’ your weepons, or ye’re dead men!” The surprise was overwhelming, and taken at a disadvantage, the masked miners were wiso 7 enough to obey, and not unwillingly, either. : A little to add in conclusion, a The mystery of Mount Rosa was solved in the discovery of a gold-mine. . * The Golden Idol, on examination, proved sto beaclay image, washed with gold, the total value)®) of which would not have exceeded fifty dollars} 9% Evelyn Howard and her masked tools, were, | by the general's suggestion given their liberty, 1 and at once left for parts unknown. ) Ditto—Dandy Dell Guthrie. , The gold-mine proved to be a paying one, and the members of our adventurous party > formed into a partnership, as absolute —— it and placed Wild Bill Marion as boss miner, a Captain Mayburn as treasurer, Later Rosebud” Rob, Cinnamon Chip, and the Tce tool their departure for Bummer’s Bend. i Of course Chip produced the likeness, and of course the general recognized it as the picture of his long-lost wife when she was a girl—and] of course Chip was received as his child. Re And in all probability the general will soon be 7 blessed with another child, in the person ,of- leet ae a as Cinnamon cei 28 or rather Eva Howard, wore an engagement ring. Up in the volcanic bowels of Old Mount Rosa, my dear reader, you will meet with a hearty reception if you hunt up Wild Bill Marion, Old Hardpan, Cap. Mayburn and the rest, whom we will leave digging away as we write. i
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1 Deerhunter, the Boy Scout of the Great North Woods, By O!] Coomes, 2 Buffalo Bill, from Boyhood to Manhood. By Col. Pren- tiss Ingraham, 8 Kit Carson, King of Guides. By Albert W. Aiken, 4 Gordon Lilite, the Boy-Interpreter of the Pawnees, By Major. H. B. Stoddard. 5 Bruin Adams, Old Grizzly’s Boy Pard. By Col. Erect In aan R 6 Deadwoo ck as aBoy. By Edward L. Wheeler. % Wild Bill, the Pistol Prince. By Col. P. Ingraham. 8 The Prairie Ranch, By Josoph E. Badger, Jr. v ovine Joes The History of a “Border Boy,” By A. « Post. 10 Texus Jack, the Mustang King. By Col. P. Ingraham. 11 Charley Skylark. _ A Story of School-day Scrapes and College Capers. By Major H. B. Stoddard, 12 Mariposa Marsh. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 18 Roving Ben. By Jobn J. Marshall. 14 Spring Steel, King of the Bush, By J. E. Badger, Jr. 15 hide- Awake George, the Boy Pioneer. By Edward e' 16 The Boy Wizard. By Barry Ringgold. 17 Peter Feppergrass, the Greenhorn from Gotham. By Nonh Nuff. 18 Adrift on the Prairie, and Amateur Hunters on the Buffulo Range, By Oll Coomes. 19 The Fortune Hunter; or, Roving Joe as Miner, Cowboy, Trapper and Hunter. By A, ft, Post. 20 Trapper Tom, the Wood linp. “By T. C. Harbaugh. 21 Yellow Halr, the Boy Chiefof the Pawnees. By Col. Prentise Ingraham, 22 The Snow Trall. By T. C. Harbaugh. 28 os Grizaky Adams, the Bear Tamer. By Dr. Frank Towell, 24 Woodx and Waters, By Capt. Frederick Whittaker, 25 A Rolling Stone: Incidents in the Cureer on Sea and Land of Col. Prentiss Ingraham. By Wm. R. Eyater, 26 Red River Rovers, i Dunning Clark. 27 Plaza and pte or, Wild Adventures of “ Buckskin Sain,” (Maj. Sam. S. Hall.) By Col. P. Ingraham, 28 The Sword Prince. The Romantic Life of Cul. Mon- atery, By Capt. Frederick Whitt ‘ker, 29 Snow-Shoe Tom. By T. C. Harbaugh. 80 Paul de Lacy, the Fronch Beast Charmer, By C. Dunning Clark. $1 Round the Camp Fire, By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 82 White Beaver, the Indian Medicine Chief. By Col. 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Harbaugh. 49 The Adventurous Life of Nebraska Charlic, By Col, Prentiss Ingraham, 50 Jack, Marry and Tom, the Three Champlon Brothers, By Capt. Fred, Whittaker, By C. D. Clark. By T. C. Harbangh. 68 Honest Harry; or, The Country Boy Adrift in the City. By Charles Morris. 54 California Joe, the Mysterious Plainsman. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham. , 55 Tip Tressel, the Floater. By Edward Willett. 51 The One Land-Lubber, e 52 The Boy Detectives. 56 The Snow Hunters. ea de Forrest. 5&7 aaExy, Somers, the Sailor Boy Magician, By S$. W. enrce, 58 The Adventurous Life of Captain Jack, the Border Boy. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 59 Leme Tim, the Mule Boy of the Mines. By Charles orris, 60 The Young Trail Hunters. Ey T. C, Harbaugh, 61 The Tiger Hunters; or, The Colorado Boys in Ele- phant Land. By Joneph KE. 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By A. C, Irons. edger, Jr. : The ite B gtk By George e Lasalle, 92 The Ocean Bloodhound, By Samuel W. Pearce. Jim Bludaoe, Jr. By Edward L Wheeler. >) MCRAE A a era Ea,» | Pa Marae Se a9 ae Me dims, bd C » By E.L.Wheeler, Peadly Eve, the Unknown Scout. By Buffalo Bill, | 95 Buck Buckram, By Captain J. F. C. Adams Nick Whilliews Pet. My Capt. J. F. C. Adans. : : Deadwood Dick's aelek Oy £, L Whesler. 06 CN oe Dick, the Sport Detective. By E. L, The Border King. By Ol! Coomes. ‘esa Old Hickory. By Harry St. George. 97 The Black Steed of the Prairies. By James 44 EBACE ae er peor Me Adams. L. Bowen, uckhorn Bill, y Edward L. Wheeler. Bian Se, 4 The Shadow Ship. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham, 98 The Sea Serpent. By Juan Lewis, phe red Brotherhood: By W. J. Hamilton. 99 Bonanza BAll, the Man Tracker. By E. L. Wheeler. aun ack, By T. C. Harbaugh. 100 Nat Todd The Fate of t] i = a Lo ig A A iba CO gt pimetedenas gears te S . JF ton. i Patent-leather Joe, By Phillip 8. Warne. ROM Mantis Wiawae Ned cnng Bearesiliee ey Hany The Border Robin Wood, By Buflulo Bill. Bt. George. Gold Rifle, the Sharpe boners By Ea. 1. Wheeler, 102 The Yellow Chief; or, Th» Half-bloods Vengeanco. Old Zip’s Cabin. By Capt. J. f C. Adams. By Capt. Mayne Reid. Ready December 93, Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. By Oll | 108 Chip, the Girl Sport. By Fdward L. Wheeler. Mad ‘Yom Western. By W. J. Hamilton. Ready Deo mber 30. Peadwood Dick on Deck. By E. L. Wheeler. 104 The Black Schooner. By Roger Starbuck, Mawkexe arr: By en Coane, Ready January 6. The Boy Duelist. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 105 Mandsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective. B; Abe Colt the Crow-K fler. By Albert W. Aiken. i ; i, f ie Corduroy Charlic, the Boy Bravo, By Edward L, es Ce rete hevler. Will Somers, the Boy Detective. By Chas, Morris, Beadle’s Pocket Library 's for sale by all Nowa. Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapner. By A. W. Aiken. dealers, five cents per copy, or sent by nail on receipt of six 7. : y pt Rosebud Rob. By Edward L. Wheeler. cents each. Lea! Joe, the Terror of the Prairie. By Cupt. J. F.C, Adams, BEAD & AD. Kit Warefoot, the Wood-Hawk. By T. C. Iar- = ‘AMS, Publishers, baugh. 98 William Street, New York, BIAMRS Vote Boer SVP NS PH www - R5 26