Beadle's Pocket Library (no. 278) (1889 05 08)
The text was read from the page scans by machine (OCR), so it has mistakes and its columns may run together. See the pages · About this title · At the Internet Archive
Page 1
— . atter, May 8, 1889, #2.50 Published Weekly by Beadle and Adams. 5 a Year. No. 98 a dd ny New Yorxk. 2 Five Gents. Vol. XXII, “COME ON, YOU MEAN RED VERMINTS!"’ AND HE SHOOK HIS CLINCHED HAND TO THAT PART OF ‘THR COMPASS FROM WHICH SOUNDS OF HOOFS CAME TO HIS EARS,
Page 2
, ates Arizona Alf, the Miner. Arizona Alf the Miner LITTLE SNAP SHOT’S LUCK. BY T, C, HARBAUGH, AUTHOR OF ‘' BLADE, THE SPORT,” “THE DEN- VER DETECTIVE,” ‘DANDY DAVE OF SHASTA,” ETO,, ETC., ETC. CHAPTER I. A MOUNTAIN MYSTERY. “THEY'RE hyer to-day an’ gone to-morrow, dod-rot the’r skins! I wish the hull Apache nation war one man, an’ thet I hed the dead drop on him!” ‘But thet time will never come, Alf.” “T know it, an’ thet’s what riles me. Oh, I feel like turnin’ wild-cat an’ eatin’ Injun babes, I do, fer a fact. An Injun is the meanest thing thet crawls, an’ them dirty Apaches—I must stop or I shall explode!” The angry and emphatic speaker was one of a band of twelve men, who, well mounted on good Pampas horses, were threading a trail that meandered among the Mongolton mountains. The men were bronzed fellows,roughly dressed, but well armed with long-range repeating-rifles and formidable revolvers. Their horses appeared somewhat jaded, for, to be explicit as we go along, they had chased a band of Apaches—the red thieves of the Southern border—the greater part of the day just gone by, and were returning unsuccessful and in no good humor to camp. Ths man called Alf, and who had just given vent to his feelings. in language already re- corded, was the recognized leader of the party, a large man, whose gray hair and sixty years had not deprived his eyes of the luster they knew in bygone atlee He was a veritable borderer, and Arizona Alf, as he was called, was known everywhere as the Arizona Miner and Indian-fighter. The men who rode behind him were fit com- panions for a leader of his kind. The mountain trail was by no means a pleas- ant road. It wasso rough that the horses were compelled to walk, much to their joy, no doubt, and the men let the reins drop idly from their hands. ‘Don’t I wish I was an ’arthquake?” broke forth Alf again. ‘‘I don’t mean a _one-hoss affair, but a reg’lar double-jointed, hifalutin’ ’arthquake.” ‘‘That’s a queer idee, Alf,” said one of the men, ‘You'd make a good-sized ’arthquake, big enough to bu’st up an Arizona county.” ‘T’d do more than thet, Thunder Sam,” cried Alf. ‘Ef I war an’arthquake I’d go into Apache-land an’ commence business on a grand scale, Thar wouldu’t be a red-skin in the ken- try when I got ready to retire.” Several of the men looked at one another and exchanged grins; but no one except Thunder Sam deigned to reply. He began to assure the irate old miner that the day of vengeance was not far distant; but Alf would not be appeased. “Now! now /” he flashed. ‘*T don’t want to wait another day. I want to be an ’arthquake, er a killin’ thunderbolt right away.” The last word had hardly left Arizona Alf’s lips ere a startling cry rung out on the warm night air. “Thar ar’ twelve men in this gang! Who's the extra pard?” In an instant every rein was drawn, and more than one dark hand snatched a reyolver from a buckskin belt, The mountain roughs whirled upon a certain individual who sat almost bolt upright in one of the saddles, In their eagerness to obtain a good view of his face they leaned forward, holding their breath and keeping their fingers at the triggers of their weapons. All at once a wild exclamation was heard. * ** Great Jehosaphat! the pard ar’ dead!” cried Alf, pointing out the stranger whose terrible condition the whole band had discovered by this time. ‘‘I wonder when he j'ined us?” Of course no one could answer this question, Somewhere along the trail the dedd man had joined the mountain men, but when and where no one knew. That he was a borderer like those whom he had joined was shown by a brief inspection, but Arizona Alf and his companions had neyer seen him before, Arizona Alf’s outstretched hand called the at- tention of all to the hilt ofa dirk that touched the dead man’s left breast. : The presence of that mounted corpse in their midst made the mountaineers shudder, “Tm goin’ to find the man thet did thet!” ex- claimed Arizona Alf. “Tt might be Spanish Jack’s work,” suggested Tbunder Sam. ** Woe to Spanish Jack, then!” “Bury thet man!” he cried, turning to his comrades, ‘* Plant him decently, as you would apard, I’m goin’ back!” At the same moment Arizona Alf gathered up the reins and turned his animal’s head toward the part of the trail over which they had just ridden, * Ain’t you goin’ to Redeye first?’ queried Thunder Sam, ‘*No—not till I’ve found the murderer,” was the significant answer, Arizona Alf threw a parting glance at the dead man, and before a hand could detain him, he struck his horse savagely with the spurs and was off like a rocket, His eyes fairly flashed, and more than once a certain name dropped from his tongue, “Spanish Jack!—Spanish Jack, eh? Ld rather be Arizona Alf now than the *arthquake I wanted to be awhileago. I’m worse than a catamoant, if I am sixty.” On, on be went. Suddenly the old avenger drew rein, He had left the cliff-walled trail, and stood on a beauti- ful little plateau with the whole expanse of the heavens above bis head. ‘“ Watch over Blossom, you golden stars!” he suddenly exclaimed, raising his band toward thesky. ‘‘She’s dearer to Arizona Alf than the
Page 3
Arizona Alf, the Miner. 8 blood in his veins. Tell me by some sign when danger threatens her, an’ I'll ride to her if I hey to dash through fire! I’m a dead man’s aven- ger—a corpse’s pard. Thar’s suthin’ funny in thet, Alf.” And with a coarse laugh that sounded weird- ly in that place, Arizona Alf used the spurs again and galloped on once more. ‘Spanish Jaci they call you, Tiger, but I’m goin’ to examine yer bowie’s sheath jes’ the same!” he muttered, CHAPTER II. SNAP SHOT, THE HORSE-HUNTER. ArT the foot of one of the lofty mountain walls that fringed the trail at the spot where the mysterious dead man was discovered to be one of the Redeye band, a strange funeral service was held while Arizona Alf was urging bis horse on, . The dead was buried by the rough hands of the miners who, after the brief ceremony, re- mounted their horses and resumed their jour- ney. “You fellers goon to Redeye,” suddenly or- dered Thunder Sam, as he stopped his steed at the side of the trail and motioned his compan- ions to keep straight ahead. “Tl rejoin you in camp afore mornin’. Somebody’s got to look arter Blossom while Alf’s away, an’ we hevn’t seen the mountain daisy fer four-an’-twenty hours.” From the spot where Thunder Sam had halted ran a narrow trail, which soon lost itself at his right; and as none of his companions objected to his intention of visiting the person called Blossom, the miner turned aside ard left them to move on to camp, “Blossom’s a beauty an? no mistake,” be said to himself. ‘‘ Arizona Alf b’lieves that no feller will ever pick ber up whar she is, but I’m ov a different opinion, You can’t hide gals like Blossom in the mountains ferever. Alf thinks that she’ll always live single fer him, I b’lieve he’d kill the man er boy what offered to make love to his Mongollon daisy. Vve heard *im say almost ez much. I wonder whether he'd tackle me ef I tried it?” The bronzed rough held his way for several miles by the winding trail, when he drew rein in front of a small but, which only keen eyes like his could see at that hour. ‘Tes almost a shame to disturb Arizona Alf*s pet, but I’m hyer to see her, an’ by Thunder! Pm not goin’ to Redeye without gittin’ a glimpse ov the posey. Bizness is bizness, Thun- der; so git to work an’ play yer band.” Thunder Sam urged his horse up to the door, and leaned toward the hut for the purpose of rapping. “Hyer goes!” he said, but before his knuckles could touch the unplaned portal a number of yells, wild enough to startle the bravest Arizo- nian, struck bis ears. “Shades ov Santa Anna! what does that mean?” he ejaculated. ‘“‘Injuns, by beavens! The dirty Apaches hev come back!” Hard ‘upon the yells rung out, distinct and clear, four shots in rapid succession, fired un- doubtedly from that weapon. The miner drew his revolvers and listened. Certain sounds now told Thunder Sam that somebody was nearing the cabin on a swift horse, and that a number of Indians were in pursuit. He drew back from the hut to the opposite side of the trail, where, with a revolver in each hand, he waited for the red-skins, At that moment, to the rough’s amazement, the door of the hut flew open, and, despite the scanty starlight, Thunder Sam saw the beauti- ful girl, who appeared on the threshold with an elegant repeating-rifle in her hands. ‘Blossom herself!” fell from the miner’s lips, ** Great Caesar! down goes the whiteman! Them Injun arrows did the work.” A horse and its boy rider had fallen in front of the cabin door, and in another moment the red-skins would be upon the scene. “Not while I’m hyer, you red niggers!” grated Thunder Sam, but before he could place himself and horse between the stricken lad and the Apaches, the girl sprung out on the trail and began to pour the contents of her rifle into the-ranks of the red scourges. Met thus unexpectedly when they were abont to finish the chase, the Indians recoiled with ex- clamations of surprise and savage horror, Every bullet fired by the mountain girl seemed to prove effective, for the half-naked butchers fell from their horses, and when Thun- der Sam reached her side the band was in full retreat, “This is forbidden ground!” exclaimed the girl. .‘‘ Woe to an Apache who sets foot on it. Go back to your hunting-grounds and plunder ranches, but keep aloof from this place on pain of death!” “Thet’s bizness, Blcssom,” said Thunder Sam, at the sound of whose voice the young girl quickly turned, unaware until that moment of his presence, ““What! you here?” she demanded, in sur- prise. “Tt kinder reckon so,” was the responsé, ac- companied by a grin which did not enbance ° Sam’s good looks, “‘ You kin shoot hke old Jack Hays, Blossom,” ‘“*T was not shooting for. myself, but for the person those paves were cbasing,” said the | girl. ‘ He fell with his horse at the door of the cabin. Let us go back and see if he’s dead.” Without noticing whether Sam was following her, the rong girl moved rapidly toward the hut, while he, leading his horse, for he had dis- mounted, was at her heels. ‘Alive! by Jupiter! The red-skins didn’t finish him, after all!” said Thunder Sam, seeing the person who had just risen from undera horse still struggling against death. on the ground, ‘‘ He’s a boy—a good-lookin’ fellar, an’ jes’ the kind ov chap Arizona Alf doesn’t want hyer. I’d do the old man a sarvice by—” The Arizona rough cut bis own sentence short, for, seeing Blossom, the youth had sprung for- ward and the young people stood face to face for the first time. Under his breath Sam cursed the young man, and if his looks bad been arrows the stranger would have been pierced through and through. “‘T owe you a life, for your rifle has preserved mine,” said the youth, addressing the girl,
Page 4
4= Arizona Alf, the Miner. “Thet’s more than mine would hev done!” hissed Thunder Sam. ‘It looks as ef I’ve got to play a lone hand in a new game, curse yer hand- some picter’, boy!” “‘T did only my duty,” replied the girl, in an- swer to the youth’s words, ‘I am glad that I have been of service to you. Your horse—” ‘* Hoe got the arrows and not his master,” was the interruption, ‘‘He was a faithful animal, the companion of the one whose loss has brought me to this part of the country. My words make me tell my story,” he went on, smiling, before Blossom could respond. ‘Tam quite willing to listen, but in the first place let me introduce to you my friend, Mr. Reese,” “Thunder Sam! No mistering for me, Blos- som!” growled the bronzed bravo, as he came sullenly forward, his eyes, full of ill-humor, fixed on the youth, “Thunder Sam, it is!” smiled the girl, glanc- ing at the youth, ‘‘ And you are—?” ‘Since nick-mames are in vogue country, you can call me Snap Shot.” ~ ‘Snap Shot, eb? Little Snap Shot, I should say,” remarked Sam, somewhat contemptuous- ly. ‘‘ Now that we’ve got acquainted, but not ez well ez we may be in the future, you kin go on with yer story.” Snap Shot eyed. the muscular rough from head to foot before he proceeded, then catching a soft and eager glance from Blossom, he re- sumed; “Tm from the San Carlos country, and I’m on the hunt of a band of Apaches who stam- peded and ran off a herd of the best horses that ever cropped Arizona grass. There were just fifty horses in the herd, but I’m willing to lose forty-nine if I can recover the fiftieth, a blooded Maverick, as white as snow and as swift as a bullet.” ‘* A hoss what is a hoss!” ejaculated Thunder Sam, ‘And you hope to recover him?” “T do and I will, For White Rocket, that one horse, I am in this part of the territory, and Tshall not go back to the ranch without my property and an Indian scalp for each horse the raed perign 3 thieves have captured or killed in this last plunder raid.” “ Jewilliky! what a contrast!” cried the bronzed Hercules. ‘‘ Look hyer, youngster. The combined forces ov Redeye wouldn’t under- take thet job. You don’t know the Injins—” “Tve known them from childhood,” inter- rupted Snap Shot. ‘‘I have taken an oath to recover my horse, and to pay Red Heart ard his band for their dirty work. Yes, Thunder Sam, I know the red-skins pretty well. I have no massacres to avenge. want my orse and a few scalps, that is all.” * All?” echoed Sam. more than you'll get, Snap Shot. say, Blossom?” “T must say that your mission is a most dan- gerous one,” answered the girl, addressing the young horge-hunter. ‘‘T started out alone to find White Rocket, and find him I will, by my own efforts. I’m no novice in horse-hunting. I have used the lasso ten thou- sand times, and when it comes to shooting, I’m in this *Tt’'s a blamed sight What do you That horse has got to be recovered, and the stam- peders punished, and Little Snap Shot is equal to the task!” “T hope he is, by Jupiter, I do!” returned the man from Redeye, choking down the madness that made him clinch his bands. ‘Go an’ hunt that hoss, but mind I tell you that you've un- dertaken the biggest contract an Arizonian ever hand on his hands. I happeved to know suthin’ about Red Heart and the kind ov devils he leads; but ar’ you sure thet when you find yer hoss you'll find thet Injun on his back?” The horse-bunter started, and for a moment gave Thunder Sam a searching look. ‘Pm sure of one thing, and that is that who- ever I find astride of White Rocket shall give him up. I care not who he is!” “Ov course, ov course! Thar’s a feller in Arizona called Spanish Jack, I think I saw a sample of his work to-night,” ‘** Pve heard of the yellow tiger. say that I know him,” answered Snap Shot. **You would intimate that I might find White Rocket in his possession? [Iam willing it should be so, though I’d rather find Red Heart on his back, Wherever my horse-trail leads, there I hunt. Understand that, Thunder Sam.” By this time the young horse-hunter had reached his arrow-slain steed, and was loosening his saddle. Sam threw a hasty glance at the cabin door, and seeing that Blossom had disappeared with- in, strode swiftly forward. “Pll end his hoss-hunt hyer!” literally hissed the jealous desperado. ‘‘The old ranch, whar- ever it is, shall never see Snap Shot ag’in, as sure as my name is Sam Reese!” The horse-bunter did not perceive his danger, but there was one who did, A figure ghded noiselessly from the cabin, and a touch on Thunder Sam’s arm made him turn, “Put up your knife, or there'll be one man less in Redeye to-morrow!” spoke a low but resolute voice, in his very ear. No wonder Thunder Sam recoiled. He was looking down the barrel of a revolver. CHAPTER TII. THE TIGER SHOWS HIS TEETH. BRAVE and reckless as he was, Thunder Sam did not attempt to move again upon Snap Shot, or to speak, and the young horse-hunter did not know what was taking place. “Go back to Redeye alive, or remain here dead,” continued the girl. “You have your choice, Thunder Sam. You are Alf’s friend, ‘and I do not want to see ene hair of your head blood-stained, but you shall not take the life of yon boy.” Thunder Sam allowed his eyes to wander to the youth busy removing the saddle from the dead horse, “T'll go, Blossom, but not fer thet young hoss- hunter’s sake,” be suid, in equally low tones, A moment later Thunder Sam, baffled, but with bis evil eyes glaring like a tiger’s, turned toward his horse, , Standing in the trail, watching him while her right hand still clutched the revolver, was Ari- I can almost proud to say I can hold my own with anybody. | zona Alf’s beautiful protegee. POPE ye Se a ene a YES
Page 5
XAT ROLES HS Arizona Alf, the Miner. 6 Blossom then went toward Snap Shot, whom she watched for a short time without making her presence known. ‘“‘Where’s your friend, Thunder Sam?” asked the young horse-hunter, seeing the girl alone. “ He has gone,” was the answer. “Ts your friend an Indian-fighter?” “ fle has met them on different occasions.” “ He is not the best Indian-fighter in this part of the country, then?” ‘\No, sir, he is not!” “ Who is?” “ Avizona Alf.” Blossom’s eyes glowed with pride as she ut- tered the name, and Snap Shot seemed to notice the feeling betrayed. 7 ‘* He is your friend?” he asked. ‘“The best friend I have,” was the response. “Tf you hunt your horse through these parts, you may meet Alf. He has been as kind asa father to me ever since the day he found me, a babe, lying under a wagon on the Colorado emigrant trail. That was long ago, All my people were killed in the massacre that took place the day Arizona Alf came along and found me. By some miracle 1 escaped the hatchets of the red-skins, and when I was found I was asleep among some flowers, That’s why I was called Blossom, Alf never discovered my true name, and I guess it’s lost forever.” Snap Shot listened entranced to the sweet voice in which was told the story of the Indian butchery, and the finding of the little waif— now the beautiful creature who stood before him, “When I run across Alf I will thank him for finding you,” he said. ‘‘ What manner of man is he?” “A tall, dark-faced person, with hair long and fast growing gray. He carries a scar across his left cheek, the work of an Apache arrow.” “‘T will know him,” exclaimed Snap Shot, and then, as if suddenly thinking of another matter, he asked: “Tsn’t there a place near here called Red- eye?” “There is, It is a mining-camp off to the north, though the men don’t do much mining now. Arizona Alf is there when he is not_here with me, and the place is Thunder Sam’s home.” “Tm not going there, because my horse-hunt doesn’t lead in that direction,” announced the youth. “ Anyway, let him keep his fingers out of my affairs. Tbe trail I am on belongs exclusively tome. If anybody interferes, he will discover that [ can hunt men as well as horses. Hark!” The sound that had startled Snap Shot had also reached Blossom’s ears—a horse was ap- proaching the cabin. “It may be Alf, and he must not see you here!” cried the girl, grasping the youth’s arm. At that moment a horse halted before the youthful pair, and they were greeted by an ex- clamation of astonishment. “Tt is not Alf!” exclaimed Blossom, starting back, Tt is Spanish Jack!” cried the boy. “Ay, Spanish Jack it is, my young turtle- doves,” was the quick response. ‘“‘By Jove! you’re a daisy pair! This must be Arizona Alf’s mourtain bird,” and he fixed his eyes on Blos- som’s face, The girl and her companion could but stare at the speaker, * A broad-brimmed sombrero, with a wide band, the ends of which were fringed, sat jauntily on his head. He wore a gold-laced Mexicanish jacket, which was open in front, revealing a rich shirt, broidered with silver braid, His leggings were loose-fitting, slashed at the bottom, and fringed on the outside from the knees down. They almost hid the feet thrust into the heavy Mexican stirrups, Spanish Jack displayed conspicuously his weapons, which consisted of: two revolvers and the inseparable bowie of the border. It was believed that, alone and unaided, this Apollo of Arizona could run off the best-guarded horses in the Territory—that in less than five hours he could have at his back a gang of men like himself, capable of successfully resisting a hundred Vigilantes, For six months prior to the date of our romance, the Arizona Tiger’s name had hardly been mentioned within the Territory. It had been rumored that he had been killed by New Mexican ranchmen; but nobody believed this, for Spanish Jack was too cunning to fall by the hands of a half-Greaser—this was the verdict of the Arizonians, His sudden appearance, therefore, in front of the hut in the mountains might well startle the pair whom he confronted. Blossom inyoluntarily recoiled from ‘the piercing eyes of the swarthy desperado, “Tam Alf’s ward,” she said in response to his last sentence. ‘*His ward, eh? Where did he find you? Ah! Iknow. I recollect that Don Domez some time ago told me over his wine that a certain old mountain miner once found a white baby under a wagon after an Indian massacre, You must be the beauty.” Spanish Jack cut his merriment short to turn upon Snap Shot, The young horse-hunter straightened up with flashing eyes. “T am Snap Shot,” he answered, ‘Ho! ho! The boy that wants to find a cer- tain horse?” “Since you seem to have heard of my oath, I say that I am the person.” “ Have you struck White Rocket's trail?” “‘T will strike it.” ‘If you can, my pigeon. Miles from here is an Indian camp. It lies in that direction,” and Spanish Jack’s hand pointed toward the north- east. “In that camp are fifty of the best war- riors of the Apache nation. You will believe me when I say that Red Heart heads them, on the back of a horse as white as snow.” “White Rocket!” ejaculated the boy. ‘Dare you hunt your horse in that red-skin camp?’ continued the Tiger. ‘Dare you tra- verse the country that lies between you and that spot?” ; “Can you show me the trail?” he demanded, “ Did you ever hear Spanish Jack lie ai No,”
Page 6
6 Arizona Alf, the Miner. *¢ Then follow me.” _ The youth hesitated no longer, but stepped to the Apollo’s side. Blossom saw the twain move off, and in less than a minute they had disappeared. Snap Shot was conducted by the mounted man over the spot where the Apaches had been stopped by the girl's repeating rifle. Allat once Spanish Jack reined in his steed and before even the watchful horse-hunter could divine what was coming a clinched hand sent him reeling, while the horseman bounded to the ground to seize his victim by the throat with an exclamation of triumph. “ Want your horse, eh?” he grated, glaring at the strangling, struggling, unconscious youth, “Pll send you after him with a vengeance! I'll show you what kind of stuff Spanish Jack is made of,” Spanish Jack threw the now unsconscious youth to the ground and sprung toward his horse. He found two horses where he had left but one; one of the Indian steeds had come back, probably in search of his master. “What luck is better than this?” exclaimed the stampeder, when he found the new horse in his possession. ‘‘I will not have to go back to the girl on foot, The Apache horse will carry the youngster straight iato Red Heart’s camp.” With a strong rope which Spanish Jack took from beneath one of the broad skirts of his sad- dle, Snap Shot was lashed to the back of the In- dian horse, “Now for White Rocket's grazing-ground! Tl send you on your horse-hunt, boy, in a man- ner you never dreamed of.” Spanish Jack’s hand moved to his bowie as he spoke, and a moment later the glittering blade was lifted over the youth’s heart, “Take this knife to Red Heart with Spanish Jack’s compliments, Tie old chief will recog- nize the bowie!” But the last word was drowned by the ringing erack of a rifle, and, as the bloodless blade was knocked from the Tiger’s hand, the Apache horse went off like an arrow! “ Heavens! who did that?’ cried Spanish Jack, as he cocked the revolvers he had whipped from his belt, ‘‘ I vant the mean skunk to know that he has interfered in my business,” “And I’m hyer to tell you thet I’ve been huntin’ fer the man who sent one dead man down the mountain to-night. I’m Arizona Alf, an’ I mean business!” A human figure leaped into the trail. “ Arizona Alf! The very man J want to see.” Thrae arms went up at the same moment, but there seemed to be but one report. With a wild cry, Spanish Jack reeled away and fell tottering against his horse! CHAPTER IV. TURNING THE TABLES, Anizona ALF started toward his antagonist, revolver in hand, but before the twain could come together the Arizona horse bounded for- ward and passed the old man like an arrow from a Pawnee bow. “Triggers an’ bowies!” ejaculated Alf, staring at the animal rapidly disappearing. ‘‘ The hoss has taken his rider with him, whether dead er alive I don’t know,” A human figure was seen clinging to the Tiger’s steed, and while the old miner spoke both horse and man disappeared. ‘*“Wal, I found Spanish Jack an’ lost him agin. Inever saw a dead man hang to a hoss thet way. The Tiger must hev life in bis heart, fer a person, no matter how good he kin shoot, ean’t hit phe a: time after dark. By Jebosa- phat! Tl not let’im git away in thet manner. A low and peculiar call brought a horse to the old man’s side, and he was about to throw him- self into the saddle when a girlish voice made him turn. ““You hyer, Blossom? I war goin’ off fer a spell but not tostay long, I hope. What hez Bappeney Do you know who hez been hyer?? “ eS, “Did he insult you?—did he touch you?— Spanish Jack, I mean.” The mountain beauty seemed to breathe freer, “TY saw but little of him,” she said. ‘‘ To tell the truth—” “Pll listen to thet when I git back,” interrupted Alf. “T only scratched the mean, yaller snake. Go back to the Shanty an’ wait fer me, Blossom. Pu come ez sartain ez water runs down bill. Thar! thet’s a dandy gal,” and Arizona Alf kissed the unresisting creature as he concluded. In another moment a horse was bearing the old man away in the direction taken by Spanish Jack and the boy horse-hunter, and Blossom was left to her own reflections. She had not dared to ask Alf about Snap Shot, but she felt that something had happened to the youth for he was not there. Blossom soon went back to the mountain cabin. Once more she was its only occupant, and on the couch which she sought in the gloom she pic- tured to herself a terrific race for life over the wildest of trails. Two magnificent steeds were flying downa mountain-trail and, although half a mile separ- ated them, their riders were unsparing with tbe spur and the breaths of each came fast, ‘* )d be myself once more if { had a weapon!” said the man on the foremost horse. ‘That infernal bullet that sent me reeling against my horse made me drop my revolvers; the first shot carried off my bowie just as I was about to pre- sent it to that young horse-hunter. Caramba ! but I’d like to meet you on an equality, Alf! Td ride over you back to that mountain daisy!” The horse stopped as the last word was spoken and stood panting under his rider’s weight on the lonely trail. “The mad old fool comes on!” continued Spanish Jack, ‘‘He hasn’t counted on me stopping here. Come, Monterey! we’re going back.” He turned his horse’s head toward the animal that was rushing madly on, For a moment Spanish Jack glared fiercely down the trail, though he could see nothing; then, with a curse on his lips, he struck his steed savagely with the spurs, “You and I for it, Alf!” he exclaimed, a
Page 7
Arizona Alf, the Miner. vf * You have found and lost Spanish Jack once to-night, but you are going to find him again!” Thetwo mad men were swiftly nearing each other; a collision—and such a one!—was un- avoidable. Arizona Alf looked ahead but could not see his enemy, still the rapid galloping told him that he was coming on with the resistless sweep of a thunderbolt. “Here is Spanish Jack!” suddenly said a startling voice, At that moment the two steeds met. Arizona Alf tried to strike down the hand that shot swiftly at his throat, but as well might he have tried to ward off a rifle-ball. Despite his hasty preparations and strength, Arizona Alf felt’ bimself lifted from the saddle and his horse shot on, L Spanish Jack’s fingers seemed to sink into his throat as the Tiger’s horse kept up his break- neck gait despite his additional load. All at once Arizona Alf felt himself falling; the claws of the Arizona Tiger had left his throat. He struck the ground at the same time that Spanish Jack leaped from his animal. ‘*Spanish Jack sometimes turns on his foes!” were the Tiger’s first words, as he glared at Arizona Alf, who had struggled to his feet and was still gasping for fresh air. “So I see!” was the response. what a grip you hev, Spanish.” “Have 1? and the Arizonian Tiger supple- mented his question with alight laugh. ‘I’ve learnt more tricks than one by practice, Alf. So you fellows found the man to whom I gave a bowie awhile ago.” ‘We found him. He j’ined us somewhar, an’ rode with us almost to Redeye.” “That man wasa fool,” hesaid. ‘‘ He thought he alone was a match for me. He accused me of stampeding his herd, and he left; the ranch, whiere he had better stayed, to find Spanish Jack. Well, he found him.” “T should say he did, from what I saw,” said Arizona Alf. “‘ You war about to sarve the boy thesame way.” “That little horse-bunter—yes!” was the re- ply. ‘“You would not have treated him much etter if you could have seen what I saw to- night.” a What's thet, Spanish?” ** He made love to the girl you call Blossom.” with a mad exclama- ‘* Heavens! y — make — love to— Blossom?” he “T don’t allow that. I have sworn bees should live for nobody but Arizona “When did you take that oath?” ‘* When I found the girl.” “Under the wagon after the massacre?” “ Yes,” Arizona Alf seemed astonished by Spanish Jack’s knowledge of the past, “) know something about Blossom’s past his- tory you see, Alf,” said the Tiger. ‘Do you think nobody will ever get her?” “They shall not! By Jove! I will hunt that Le} down. So he made love to her—to Blossom? I don’t allow that! The man thet loves thet girl is Arizona Alf’s etarnal enemy.” ' “You hey seen the gal to-night. War it fer the first time, Spanish Jack?” ‘Tt was, but 1 had heard of her befors. She’s lovelier than I ever dreamed her to be. I'd give my horses for her, Alf, but I’m going to get her cheaper than that.” "You ar’?” “ce ve am,” A moment’s silence followed, The two men stood erect scarcely five feet apart; Spanish Jack’s sombrero lay on the ground, and his wealth of midnight hair no cages concealed by it, fell over his broad shoul ers. “T strike for Blossom this time, Alf!” he sud- denly exclaimed. ‘Stand on the defensive, old rd, Spanish Jack bas been well named the iger of Arizona.” With flashing eyes Arizona Alf braced him- self = the Young Tiger threw himself for- ward, Weaponless—for the old miner’s adventures had cost him knife and revolvers—the two moun- tain characters came together for the third time that night. Once more the Tiger’s bronzed band shot at Arizona Alf’s throat; the men grappled like wrestlers, and pitted strength against strength. They were fighting for the most beautiful prize the Arizonian mountains ever contained. They went to the ground together, but con- tinued to struggle. ‘Blossom shall love none but Arizona Alf. I have made that my oath an’ I shall keep it.” _ “Not to-night, old fellow. Blossom shall live to love the Yellow Tiger of Arizona.” Thirty minutes later a horse borea man to- ward the cabin on the mountain trail. This man wore an embroidered jacket and a sombrero with a wide fringed band, “‘T didn’t lie! Spanish Jack, you can go back and make love to Blossom, the Mongollon daisy!” exclaimed the man in a triumphant tone. The rider was the Tiger; he had left Arizona Alf behind him. He kept on until he had reined in his steed in front of the hunted but. “Here I am at last!” he said. At that moment the door flew open and a startled voice rung in his ears, ‘Aim at his head, and when I count three fire! One—” The Tiger of Arizona recoiled with a cry of horror. CHAPTER V. THE TIGER GETS NEW CLAWS. A LIGHT that illuminated the interior of the cabin enabled Spanish Jack to take in the whole situation at a glance, Not a moment was to be lost, for he was coy- ered by a rifle, at whose trigger was a finger that fairly itched to send the bullet on its mis- sion of death. “ One—two--” ‘‘Here’s for it!” passed through the Tiger's brain, He spoke fiercely to his horse, as he threw himself forward on the heated neck. In an instant—the twinkling of an eye—Mon-
Page 8
8 Arizona Alf, the Miner. terey shot forward, clearing an incredible num- ber of feet the first bound. . A cry of disappointment rose behind him, but Spanish Jack kept on, Suddenly the report of a rifle echoed in his rear, and a bullet clipped the fringe from one of the ribbons attached to his sombrero. “ That's as good asa mile, my friend!” ejacu- lated Jack. ‘If I had remained in front of the cabin a moment longer, the Southern ranches would get a little rest. Never mind; Pll win the girl yet. I’m Spanish Jack still, and Span- ish Jack is more than a tiger!” The Arizonian had checked the speed of his borse, and the animal was permitted to move forward at his own gait, “ve got to have something to fight with,” the desperado went on. ‘Fate has been half against me to-night, and for tho first time in my career I find myself without a weapon—not somuch asaknife. Dll ride on to Redeye and get a fresh cape To Redeye? ould Spanish Jack ride into that mountain camp to rearm himself, among the men who hated him as much as they did Red Flash and his Apaches? Spanish Jack knew that he could not enter Redeye without being noticed, yet he was going thither for the purpose of rearming himself, He kept straight on until he saw the forms of the rough cabins in the morning starlight. “Tm no welcome visitor here!” he exclaimed, to himself. ‘‘Let me see: thar’s a chap here called Thunder Sam; at least he was here last summer when I stampeded Redeye’s horses. He followed me two hundred miles—the closest chase I ever had. Yes, I know you, Thunder Sam. I am not likely to forget a hunter like ou. Although Spanish Jack was entering Redeye for the first timo, he guided his horse straight toward the place where, above all others, he was most likely to find some oue. Suddenly a coarse laugh and an oath struck his ears, “Theyre at it!” Spanish Jack said with a smile, and he halted in front of a large log cabin whose door stood wide, and beyond whose thres- hold he saw the night-owls of Redeye. A large rough table occupied the middle of the room, Four men occupied seats around it, and sey- eral others stood by, interested spectators of the game which had been kept up through the great- er part of the night, panish Jack’s eyes glistened, while from his saddle he surveyed this scene, Noiselessly, and with his eyes transfixing tho ae of Redeye, the Arizona Tiger slipped rom his saddle and glided toward the cabin. The figure of one of the spectators prevented the light from falling upon the Tiger, and in the shadow cast by the burly desperado Spanish Jack advanced. From the moment that he crossed the thres- hold he had selected his victim—his eyes were riveted upon the butts of two revolvers that rest- ed on the man’s broad hips, All at once the Tiger’s hands darted at the weapons and closed on them with triumph. The next instant a wild cry filled the cabin, 4 : and as the robbed miner recoiled and threw the light upon the despoiler, the gamblers leaped up with their hands at the butts of their revol- vers. “Not so fast, men of Redeye!” calmly said Spanish Jack, stepping back and presenting the cocked pistols at the startled group. ‘‘Ha! you know me, Thunder Sam. I did not know I was paying you back for that long chase when I armed myself, By George! I’m glad to see you —glad that you survived that man-hunt. Of course you men know me now.” Yes, they all knew him. Despite his wild deeds of the past, they were astonished at his audacity. Thunder Sam’s eyes glared at bim like the orbs of a cornered lion, Don’t I know you?” he exclaimed. ‘‘ Didn’t I foller you two hundred miles once—the longest and hottest chase I s’pose you ever had?” “That it was; but I am backagain. This time on a matter of business, to which I have attended,” smiled the Tiger of Arizona, ‘ Your revolvers, Thunder Sam, will come back to Redeye one of these days. I’m only borrowing them.” These words were enough to madden the seven . men held at bay in the hut, They advanced an inch. “Thar!” cried Spanish Jack, “another inch an’ I'll try Thunder’s revolvers,” As noiselessly as he had entered the cabin, the Arizona Tiger approached the door again; bis right foot crossed the threshold, then his left one followed; and he stood beneath the stars, armed to the teeth once more. Not until he was three feet from the cabin did one of his arms drop. “You shall have your men-killers again, Thunder—I swear it,” ie said. “And so do I,” grated Thunder Sam, ‘Tf will foller you to the Rio Grande but what I get ’em back! This time ll not give up the hunt as I did before. By heavens, Spanish Jack, this trip to Redeye seals your doom!” The yellow victor laughed defiantly. While it rung out, the seven reached the door of the cabin, “This will make you remember my visit to Redeye!” said the Tiger, and a shot succeeded, One of the men threw up his hands and fell against his comrades, “ Your revolvers are daisies, Thunder Sam!” followed the shot, and before the startled men of Redeye could respond, a horse went down the only thoroughfare the camp could boast of, bearing away the greatest villain in Arizona, Six men rushed frantically from the cabin, and the same number of revolvers lighted up the night with flashes of fire, and leaden missiles sought the heart of Spanish Jack. But back from the darkness came a laugh that told the men of Redeye, that the king of stam- peders was still able to keep his saddle, Tt was a wild, triumphant, defiant laugh, ‘‘No more shootin’!” cried Thunder Sam, dashing the revolvers down. ‘Let’s go back an’ sw’ar over Buckhorn Bill the biggest oath ov vengeance ever heard in Redeye.” The six men went back to the cabin where the dead gambler lay, and as the rest of the
Page 9
Arizona Alf, the Miner. desperate citizens of the camp appeared on the scene, Spanish Jack rose in bis stirrups a mile away, and waving his sombrero above his head sent up three triumphant cheers, The Tiger had got new claws. CHAPTER VI. THUNDER SAM’S INJUN POT-PIE, THE eventful night—eventful to Redeye at least—was passing away at last. While day was breaking in the east, the den- izens of the camp stood over Buckhorn Bill who lay where he bad fallen by Spanish Jack's re- volver. The terrible oath of vengeance had been taken, and such an oath, too. The stampeder had vexed Arizona long enough; he had even invaded Redeye, jerked two revolvers from the belt of Thunder Sam, and with them taken the life of Buckhorn Bill. His last deed cried aloud for revenge. Over the dead desperado, Thunder Sam se- lected three men who were to accompany him on his hunt, He knew them all; he had seen them tried in more than one desperate encounter, and they were eager to come up with the Tiger who had invaded the camp. * Away went the four in the first gleams of daylight, well mounted, well armed, and burn- ing for revenge. “ Let’s take the shanty in on our way, an’ see what’s become ov Blossom,” said Thunder Sam, when a mile from Redeye. ; * Agreed! Who kuows but that Spanish may hey gone down thar an’ insulted Arizona Alf’s mountain daisy? By heavens! ef he hez, we'll give him extra punishment!” - So the four hunters turned into the trail that ran past the mountain lodge and urged their horses on. Thunder Sam glanced at bis companions when he saw the mountain cabin a short distance ahead, and, motioning them to fall behind, he rode on. ~ To the rough’s surprise, he found the little door wide open and an aspect of loneliness about the place. ‘“« T guess the Tiger ov Arizona has been hyer!” avid Thunder Sam’s lips as be approached the ut, ‘* Ef be has touched Blossom, woe to bis onery hide! I'll make this Territory, big as it is, too hot to hold him,” Aftew yards further on Thunder Sam drew rein, Once more he was in front of the girl’s moun- tain home, thinking not of how he had ridden away from the revolver that ‘‘ covered” him from the hand of Blossom, Leaning toward the logs from his saddle, the man from Redeye put one hand upon them and poked his handsome face into the hut. “ Hello, Blossom!” he called. There was no response. % * Jes’ es 1 expected; she ain’t hyer!”. he ex- claimed, whirling upon his companions as they hastened forward, ‘I'll bet my claims thet Spanish Jack knows whar the mountain daisy is, . Thunder Sam threw himself from the saddle and rushed into the cabin, but the next second he recoiled with a furious oath. “Tnjuns! Injuns!” also rung from his throat. “ The infernal Apaches—” His sentence was broken by the sharp reports of his companions’ revolver as they opened on the red-skins who were swarming from the hut. Thunder Sam reached his horse, but not the saddle. “ Neath to the red skunks!” he roared, facing the Apaches with a revolver in each hand. ‘No quarter an’ no surrender, men ov Redeye!” Awed by the deadly fire of the quartette’s weapons, the Indians fell back into the cabin and slammed the door in the desperadoes’ faces. All, however, did not get safely behind the portals, for in front of it lay six who would never stampede horses again. ~ “Heavens! that war a close call!” ejaculated Thunder Sam, ‘I hed jis’ got beyond the door when sutbin’ closed on my arm. I knowed what it war, an’ back I went. Now!” and his eyes flashed exultantly. ‘‘We've got the red devils everlastingly cooped up, an’ ’'m willin’ to take an oath thet they’ve fired their last ar- rers! Watch thet door with yer men-killers, boys, while I git things ready fer the final scene.” Thunder Sam saw the door covered with six revolvers before he moved off, and commenced to collect an armful of dry twigs which every- where littered the ground. When he rejoined his companions he deposited his collections against the hut and produced several matches from a pocket in his dirty buckskin jacket. ‘Now look out, pards! They'll rush fer it when the fire cracks,” he said. ‘‘Pour it into ’em when the door opens, an’ don’t let one ov the red varmints out. Thar’s nothin’ like an Apache pot-pie, an’I kin git one up to perfec- tion when I’ve got a chance like this,” The snap of a match followed his last word, and then came the cracking of the dry twigs. Fearless, like all men of his class, and with the utmost confidence in the revolvers of his ae Thunder Sam fanned the flames with his bronzed hands until they had made good head- way. Then he rose, and walking back to his horse. drew his revolvers again, and madly watched the hut. As the fire caught the cabin door in its em- brace, it roared out the speedy doom of Blos- som’s home. Yet not an Indian showed himself. ‘They ain’t fools enough to be roasted alive!” Thunder Sam said. ‘‘They’ll make the grand break in a little while. Thet old shanty’s almost » too hot to hold’em now. Look out fer ’em, boys. Keep your fingers on your triggers,” The flames crept up the logs, devouring them as they advanced; a large hole had burned through the door. “Tt. beats me, I swan it does!” the head des- rado was forced to exclaim, ‘“ Didn’t we es’ drive more than a dozen Apaches back into thet shanty?” ‘Ther’ war fourteen on ’em, Thunder; I counted ’em,” P ‘Fourteen, then, Ar’ they goin’ to stay in
Page 10
Arizona Alf, the Miner. thar an’ burn up without makin’ a break fer liberty? Thet’s not Apache grit—not the kind T’ve seen tried fifty times in my career. Look! thar goes the door!” ; At that moment the door, burned from its wooden hinges, fell inward amid_a shower of sparks, and the flames, kept outside no longer, rushed into the cabin with vengeful roar! The avengers of Redeye drew back from the terrible heat, and looked at the burning hut with perplexed countenances, : “By thunder! this place is bewitched!” sud- denly exclaimed Thunder Sam. ‘Thar ain’t an Injun in thet cabin, an’ we druv fourteen back into it awhile ago. Look! the fire sweeps the hull inside ov the blamed place, It would melt a cast-iron man in five minutes.” All at once a chorus of wild Indian yells rose above the roar of the flames. “The Apache varmints!” grated Thunder Sam, ‘ By hokey! theyre the same devils we cooped up in the cabin!” he men from Redeye turned to the north as the “Lech of a body of Indians appeared on the trail. “Stand yer ground, pards!” cried Thunder Sam. ‘We kin hey an Injin pot-pie yet! Death to the red skunks ov Arizona!” This time the red-skins were not awed by the revolvers toward which they rode. The mountain rung with exultant yells as pell-mell down the trail on excellent steeds the Apaches came to engage their foes. he band was headed by a magnificent In- dian, who rode a splendid snow-white horse, faultless in limb and with glowing eyes. “ White Rocket, the youngster’s hoss! broke from Thunder Sam’s lips. ‘‘ Who couldn’t hunt such an animal ez thet? By Jove! lll swap hosses with thet red-skin!” A minute sufficed to bring the combatants together. ith their deadly revolvers thrust forward, Thunder Sam and his companions met the dash- ing onset. ‘Pour it into’em!” the former shouted, and the battle opened with unwonted fury. But revolvers, however well aimed, could not check that mad red mob. Although more than one Apache reeled from their saddles, which, for the most part, were well worn blankets, the others came on, their wild yells increasing. Into the ranks of their relentless foes the four men emptied their revolvers, and then, for the Indians bad not been checked fora moment, they, drew their bowies, ‘“ Make sure work!” cried Thunder Sam, and he added under his breath: “It looks to me eZ ef the Apaches ar’ goin’ to make the pot- pie. The next moment Thunder Sam spurred his horse toward the red-skins. He did not look behind to see whether he was followed, - “That white hoss er death!” he grated. ‘ Ef IT git im, Snap Shot shall go back to ther ranch without ’im! He’s as pretty as Blossom, blame my skin ef he ain’t!” That instant Thunder Sam reached the In- dian squadron, Thirty red hands darted at. him, but his gleaming bowie leaped through them all. ‘Thunder Sam forever!” he shouted. ‘‘ You rile a hull tribe ov catamounts when you stir this animile up. Hyer’s the varmint I want.” The Indians who filled the mountain-pass could not prevent the mountaineer’s deed; his hand was quicker than their sight. The red rider of the white horse darted at Thunder Sam, but the onslaught that met him half-way was irresistible, “This ho:s is worth a gold-mine, chief,” he said. “I'll settle with you fer stealin’ im an’ saye ther boy the trouble,” Vuinly did the Apache warrior dart at the uplifted hand. Down came the miner’s bowie, and as the red chief reeled, he was swept from the horse by Thunder Sam’s left arm, and a wild yell an- nounced that Little Snap Shot’s horse had changed owners! “Now, git out ov my way!” shouted Sam to the Indians, as he wheeled the white steed and drew the bloody bowie back. ‘I’m a thousand grizzlies rolled into one, This hoss is mine for- ever! Cl’ar the track!” The strength of the white horse-and the menacing knife made the red ranks separate. ‘Come on, pards!” cried Thunder Sam to his comrades as he dashed down the living gantlet, but he did not look behind him. ‘‘ Thet’s what I call bizness!” he said when he found himself beyond the foe. ‘‘ Who wouldn’t risk what I hey fer sucha hoss?, He’d bring a thousand in Prescott, an’ five in Frisco; but a world wouldn’t buy bim from me,” Proud of the prize he had won at the bowie’s point, Thunder Sam urged the horse on until he was satisfied that the red-skins were not thun- dering at his heels. ‘‘This isn’t huntin’? Spanish Jack,” he said suddenly. ‘‘ But what’s the use ov huntin’ him on such a hoss? Let me find Blossom an’ hang oe ef somebody else can’t avenge Buckhorn ill, ‘* That’s what I say, Thunder Sam; but who’s taken my pet off?” . At these words the man from Redeye turned and found himself face to face with the last person he expected to confront there, “Wal, ef it isn’t Arizona Alf himself, shoot me fer a rattler!” he ejaculated, “That’s who I am!” was the answer, as’ the speaker came forward, nor halted until he laid his hand on Thunder Sam’s leg and looked up into his face. ‘I’ve been to ther outskirts ov etarnity more’n once since I’ve seen you, Thun- der; but every time my determination fetched me away. What's the girl—my mountain Blos- som? You will go with me back to the lodge, won't you?” ‘Thunder Sam smiled. “Thar’s no lodge any more, Alf,” he said, “What became ov it?” “Tm goin’ to play honest. I sot it on fire.” The old miner started back with blazing eyes, ‘* You? You set fire to Blossom’s home? By heavens! Thunder Sam—” } “Thar! thetll do!” was the interruption. ‘Hear me through, old man, We cooped up ¢
Page 11
aaeminatee eae ey Arizona Alf, the Miner. ay | fourteen Injuns in the hut, an’ I tried to make an Apache pot-pie, but hang me ef one war scorched, an’ we burned the cabin down.” “They found the underground trail,” said Arizona Alf. “ Thet’s it!” exclaimed Sam, ‘I thought Old Nick heiped the red yarmints to git away.” CHAPTER VIL FORCED TO DISGORGE, THE mystery of the Indians’ escape from the burning cabin was now explained, but Thunder Sam forgot them a moment after Arizona Alf’s explanation. e was looking down into the face of the man to whom Blossom was the most precious object on earth, the man who had raised her from a child, among the mountains, and who would shed his last drop of blood in her defense. “You say you've been nigh eternity?’ said Thunder Sam after a minute’s silence, ‘Did you find Spanish Jack?” ““Didn’t I, though?” exclaimed Arizona Alf. “Did I ever hunt a man and not find him, Thunder? Wal, I found the boss stampeder an’ we hed a tussle.” * Not since he left Redeye?” “ Has he been thar?” **T should say he has, but go on.” ‘The varmint got the best ov me,” continued Arizona Alf, ‘ Thet half-Mexican devil hes the strength ov a grizzly. I war completely in his power when I found myself lyin’ on the edge ov a cliff. How his eyes glittered then—worse nor a catamount’s, Thunder, Fera half minute he stood over me pantin’ like a feller pretty nigh played out, an’ then he pounced upon me like an eagle, “All to once I war fallin’—fallin’?’ down— away down! It war awful, Thunder. You don’t know what queer things pass through a feller’s brain when he’s passin’ through the air, an’ you wouldn’t believe me ef I told you. When I struck I threw my arms out an’ caught some limbs. Thar I war hangin’ ina tree-top a mile above the foot ov thet cliff fer all I know, fer I couldn’t see it. Ef a man ever swore to pay an enemy back, I reckon I did then.” “Oh, others did the same thing to-night,” smiled Thunder Sam, “ Whar?” “Tn Redeye, over Buckhorn Bill’s carkigs,” “Who wiped him out?” “The same yellow hound thet dropped you over the cliff.” Arizona Alf gnashed his teeth for a moment. “Are you on his trail now?” he suddenly asked. “Not exactly.” “Do you think he carried Blossom off?” ‘ That’s to be determined, Alf.” “Woe to him if he did! I’m worth all the “dead men in Arizony! Thet girl belongs to me, an’ I will kill the person what loves er touches her besides Alf.” ““What would you do ef a fellar like Thunder Sam should take a fancy tothe mountain daisy?” asked Redeye’s desperado. “You're jokin’ now, Thunder!” exclaimed Arizona Alf, as he started and transfixed Thun- der Sam with his piercing gaze, ‘‘ We've been pards too long fer you to take a fancy to Blos- som. “Stranger things then thet hev happened in Arizona.” Thunder Sam’s seriousness seemed to force a new and terrible revelation upon Arizona Alf’s mind. The bronze hand left the leg upon which it had Jain. ‘You—do—love—Blossom, then?” gasped Alf. ‘“ Now you’ve guessed it,” was the quick re- sponse, and Thunder Sam seemed to increase an inch in stature. ‘‘ You have threatened with vengeance the man what should dare to love yer wild flower without yer consent. I’m thet man! Sines Ive got the best horse in Arizony, I’m not goin’ ter stop till I’ve got the best gal! You kin stan’ thar an’ chaw at me with yer mad eyes, Alf, but ’m a catamount when I’ve made my mind up, as a lot ev Apaches hev jes’ found out.” Not for a minute after Thunder Sam paused did Arizona Alf find his tongue. The desperado’s first words had driven him back several feet, but now he strode forward like a lion aroused. ‘* Words ar’ words, but bizness is bizness!” he said, ‘‘TI will keep my word, Thunder!” His hand again fell upon Thunder Sam’s leg, but the next instant it darted at his revolver. “Not yet!” he exclaimed, dashing Arizona Alf’s hand aside, for his quick eyes had antici- pated the movement. ‘Now, sir, we will settle a part ov our difficulty byer.” He pushed Arizona Alf back as he finished, and though the old miner attempted to recover, he did not until be was ten feet away. “Tm at your mercy,” he said, looking into the revolver that covered him, “I never thought thet the men oy Redeye would fall out among themselves, an’ thet fer Blossom.” A heartles laugh was Thunder Sam's first re- ly. ““At my mercy? No, Alf! 1 never hed any ov thet article!” he grated. ‘‘ You’ve come to the wrong man to talk ov thet} What word hey you fer Blossom?” “ Not by you!” ‘Why not?” ‘Because you wouldn’t take it to her.” “Try me! I sw’ar by my soul, to carry to Blossom any word you want to send. G er bad, Alf, Pll take it to her. Be quick with the message ef you hev one.” s “*T b’lieve T'll trust you,” said the old miner, as his eyes beamed with hope. * Be quick, I say, fer by the sun thet gilds the sky, Alf, I’m goin’ to make sure ov Blossom this time. I hold the winnin’ hand.” ‘Then, tell her never to reveal the big bonan- za while she is in Thunder Sam’s power; tell her that this word came from me. Ah! you will never tell her this.” ; ! How Thunder Sam’s eyes glistened before he replied, Where was the *‘ big bonanza” of which Ari- zona Alf spoke? If it was in Arizona, why had he not heard of it? And he had been the old man’s comrade for ten years. - ‘*Ha! I knew you lied, Thunder Sam!” ex-
Page 12
claimed Arizona Alf. ‘* You will never carry my message to Blossom,” ““T will. So thar is a hidden gold mine?” The miner laughed, and seemed to incline his head toward the ruined mountain cabin miles away. “No perdition with your bonanzas!” hissed Thunder Sam. ‘If one exists, I will find it. Don’t I hear the Apache hosses down yonder? You hear ’em too, Alf. Hyer ends your last trail; hyer I begin the tussle thet will give me Blossom.” The revolver seemed to fall a hair’s breadth, Arizona Alf’s eyes lost none of their fire at that moment, All at once a ringing shot awoke the echoes of the mountains, and without a cry, the gray- haired miner reeled away and fell among the bushes at his back. It was the heartless shot of a mountain demon —a shot for which there must be a retribution swift and terrible, “Now, Thunder Sam, find the girl, wrench her from Spanish Jack, er ther boy, an’ thar’ll be no Alf an’ his threats to trouble ye. Mounted on ther best animal in Arizony, you ought to be able to come out on top in any game you want to play. Come on, you mean red vermints!” and he shook his elmeched hands toward that point of the compass from which sounds of hoofs came to his ears. ‘‘Tll lead you a chase thet will end whar you’d rather it would not, I’ve jes’ made one man break his word, but with yer hull tribe at my heels, I'll not rupture mine! Oh! come on, an’ try the mettle ov yer chief’s white hoss!” Away went the desperado from Redeye, and the spot where his victim lay silent among the brushwood was speedily left behind. Tho white horse seemed to possess the speed of the wind in his lithe limbs, St mattered not who he carried, be carried his rider well. This was the matchless White Rocket, the horse to recover whom Little Snap Shot had anitet a ranch in the far South, and faced the angers and death-trails of the Mongollon Mountains. Thunder Sam took delight in testing the ani- mal’s speed. He urged him over the trail until he went fly- ing past rock and tree with almost inconceivable swiftness. “T don’t bear ’em any more. Oh! what a hoss!” The desperado spoke thus miles and miles from the spot where he left Arizona Alf, and in the glowing beams of the sun that fell upon him from the bluest of skies, he patted White Rocket’s neck and ran bis fingers through the silver mane. The horse seemed conscious of this admiration on the part of his rider, for he turned his head and tried to look into Thunder Sam’s face. All at once a strange whistling sound saluted the rough’s ears, and to his surprise the horse attempted to lie down, - Ta vain did Thunder Sam try to prevent him; White Rocket carried his point, and his rider was forced to leap from the saddle to escape injury, Arizona Alf, the Miner, “Who gave thet signal?’ he growled, as he stood beside the horse with his revolvers ready for an emergency. ‘'I knew my hoss war a pet, but hang meefI thought he wara trick avimile! Say, you who whistled, jes’ git up an’ show yerself. { proclaim to all the world thet this hoss b*longs to Thunder Sam, an’ thet thar ar’ no man livin’ strong enough ter take ’im from me!” Searcely had the last word left the speaker's lips when a youthful figure slipped into view a short distance down the trail. ‘The hoss-hunter himself!” ejaculated Thun- der Sam. ‘‘ Wal, ef this ain’t a pretty go, shoot me fer a rattler.” “The man who says that that horse belongs to Thunder Sam lies like a Mexican!” came over the rifle pressed against the bcy’s shoulder. “I am here to assert my ownership, Come here, White Rocket.” ; The white horse sprung up instantly. “No you don’t, my daisy!” cried Thunder Sam, springing toward the animal. “I hev taken an oath—” “So have I! Drop that bridle-rein, you yel- Jow dog, or I'll end my horse-hunt over your worthless corpse!” Sam saw that these words came over the pol- ished barrel of the leveled rifle. “J don’t really want your life; but White Rocket is worth a thousand Thunder Sams. Pll count four for you. One—two—” The rein dropped from the desperado’s hand, and a light laugh came over the rifle. “You're a man of sense, Thunder Sam,” fol- lowed the laugh. ‘‘ Zip, zip, White Rocket!” The horse pricked up his ears and rushed to- ward the boy with a joyous whinny. The face of the rough was as dark as a thun- der-cloud when he saw the two meet. ‘*Good-by, Thunder Sam. I’m much obliged to you for bringing Rocket here. We may meet again, You'd better go back to Redeye. Spanish Jack is in the country.” With the agility of a splendid horseman, Snap Shot had vaulted into the saddle, and while Thunder Sam gnashed his teeth and forgot his revolvers in his rage, the recaptured prize was bearing bim from the scene. “ Go back to Redeye without neither the gal ner the hoss?” flashed the baffled devil. ‘Tt die with my boots on first! When I go back thar, I'll ride thet white animal, an’ know whar Blossom is! The voung chap thinks his hoss- trail has ended. Blame my skin ef it’s half begun! He don’t know me; but he'll get ac- quainted afore many hours! I’m a million cat- amounts when I'm riled, an’ I’m riled to the depths now; hang me ef I ain’t! [Pll rekiver thet piece ov white lightnin’; T'll find the moun- tain daisy; an’ I'll make things lively. Yer, I'm goin’ to ride White Rocket into Redeye. CHAPTER VIII. SHOT FROM THE SADDLE. THE reader will recollect that when we last saw Snap Shot prior to the adventure just re- corded, he was lashed to the back of an Apache horse, which was bearing him from the moun- tain cabin, This was Spanish Jack’s work, and if Arizona
Page 13
Arizona Alf, the Miner. 18 Alf had not interfered in the nick of time, and shot the bowie from the Tiger’s band, Little Snap Shot’s career would bave ended theie and then. We will go back to that scene only to say that Spanish Jack, in his baste, failed to fasten the boy securely to the horse, fora few miles from the scene of his capture, he managed to get one of bis hands loose. The rest was easy, and all at once the Indian steed found his rider astride his back, and checking his headlong speed. Intent on finding the Arizona Tiger, the young horse-hunter turned back and reached the cabin in time to astonish Jack with a leveled rifle, when that worthy came back after his encoun- ter with Arizona Alf, But, as we have seen, the Tiger escaped his deadly aim by prompt action and good riding, leaving bim alone with Blessom again. From the cabin Spanish Jack went to Redeye and rearmed himself. “A good riddance,” said Blossom, when the Tiger had escaped, ‘‘May we never see the demon again.” it was needless to say that Snap Shot echoed her sentiments, Mounted on White Rocket once more Little Snap Shot galloped otf and drew rein a short distance from the place where we left Thunder Sam cursing bis ill-luck. ‘“What has happened?’ exclaimed a sveet voice, and a young girl appeared at the white steed’s side. “T have found my horse,” was the answer, as the boy’s eyes shone with triumph. ‘Some- Low or other he had fallen into Thunder Sam’s bands, and it was my chance to encounter the villain down the trail, This is the animal I have talked so much about, Blossom; this is the best horse in Arizona!” And the boy’s hand ran in and out through White Rocket’s flowing mane. Blossom put up her hand and smoothed the horse’s glossy coat, while the youth watched her with eyes full of admiration, ““You will go back to the old ranch now?” she said. : Snap Shot started. ‘4T bave found my horse, that is true; but I like this country,” A pretty blush stole over Rlossom’s face. You have not seen all its people,” she re- plied. ‘“‘ You have made many enemies here, and they are not of the kind who will forget you. Your ho:se will be bunted again, Thun- der Sam may have captured him from the Indians; if he bas, they will not let the trail get cold, You and White Rocket will be safer on the old ranch than here.” Little Snap Shot's gaze wandered toward the far south, > knew that the girl’s words were full of truth. Safety for him and bis white steed lay only Where the green grass of the “old ranch” waved in the sun, but something seemed to hold him back. Blossom tried to read his thoughts, while he ‘gazed southward, but gave up baffled, and wait- edfor him to speak, as if she knew that his ‘words would prove the turning point cf his life, Se He turned upon her so suddenly that she in- voluntarily started. ““ Why do you live here?” he asked. ‘“ It seems to me that the country I inhabit is fairer than this. We have no Thunder Sam there.” “Then you are blessed, indeed. But do not try to turn me from these mountains. You for- get that Alf likes this land.” ‘* Alf?” echoed the boy; ‘‘ how I would like to meet him! I am sure I owe bim my life, for he shot the bowie from Spanish Jack’s hand. But you do not want me to encounter Alf.” Blossom’s cheeks seemed to grow pale, ‘“‘ I dare not tell you what he has said,” were ber words, while the pallor still remained. ‘He is a strange man in many respects, and is de- voted tome. I can never forget who saved me after the Indian massacre, years ago.” “IT do not ask you to forget your preserver. eee not Alf leave this country?” Yo. ““You are then doomed to remain untii his Seog petra you elsewhere?” “ Yes ‘* Then,” said the youth, ‘‘T shall have to say good-by for the present. I will go back to the old ranch. My horse-hunt has terminated abruptly. I am seated on White Rocket’s back again and this is the proudest day of my life. You shall go back to the mountain home on the best animal west of the Mississippi.” In less than a winute Arizona Alf’s protegee was seated with Snap Shot on the white horse, which started off toward, though the pair knew it not, a scene of desolation. “* Heavens! what bas happened?” fell sudden- ly from the youth’s lips. ‘* Look! smoke is ris- ing from the spot where I fear your home stood when we left it.” Blossom looked for a moment and then ut- tered an exclamation of horror. ‘“*T have no home, but forward,” she said, “‘The Indians bave been here. They knew that Arizona Alf built the cabin and they never liked the old man whose rifle never fails him.” White Rocket went flying toward the spot where columns of dark smoke were mounting heavenward. ‘*The edemons have been here sure enough!” flashed Snap Shot, drawing rein in front of the Mountain Lodge, now a heap of — ruins. ““As they could not secure the bird they de- stroyed the nest. These are the kind of deeds that will keep me in this country. Villains like this call for revenge. Ibave not forgot that I swore to pay the red chief who took White Rocket from the old ranch,” Blossom did not speak, but gazed sadly upon the scenes of desolation that surrounded her. Not one log had been left upon another; the flames had done their fiendish work. “Now,” said the boy, breaking in upon Blos- som’s sad reverie, ‘now you are ready to leave this country, are you not? Let me offer you a home where I know you will be bappy; let me—” “You are very kind, but I cannot accept, Alf will build me another cabin.” Little Snap Shot seemed to grate his teeth. “Arizona Alf!” he said, under his breath, “ Why does that strange man cross my path
Page 14
Arizona Alf, the Miner. every time? He may not find you for some time,” he said to the girl, “‘and you must be sheltered somewhere,” ‘*T can seek the camp. ’ ** Redeye?” "Yes," “That camp you have told me is Thunder Sam’s lair.” “Ah! but I don’t fear that fellow,” and the girlsmiled. ‘‘ Yes, I shall go to Redeye until Alf comes,” “To Redeye then!” exclaimed the young horse-hunter; but Blossom’s hand fell warning- ly upon his arm, “ For the last time, perhaps, let me say, ‘Go back to the old ranch.’ You have found your horse, and to recover him you entered_ this country. Ican go to Redeye alone, and I as- sure you I will get along with its citizens, who are my protector’s friends.” ‘“*No!” answered Snap Shot, firmly. ‘Since you have determined t» take up your abode in Redeye, I shall sot you down there, Please do not remonstrate with m2 again. My mind has been made up. [am quite eager to see Redeye, the capital of this wild land, and I will not ride for the old ranch until I have seen it. Come, White Rocket, we are going to Redeye.” With this the white steed started off, and was soon coursing swiftly down the road that led to the mountain camp, ‘Yonder is the camp!” exclaimed Blossom, pointing down the mountain at a collection of rouga cabins that stood in tha sunlight. ‘‘ Now, if you will halt here, and let me—” “Not yet!” laughed Snap Shot. ‘‘I am going to take you to your new home,” and the spurs sent White Rocket swifter than ever over the trail. Not until the horse had borne the young couple to the center of the wild capital of the district did he check his gwit. Then a word, and not the rein, stopped him. “So this is Redeye, eh?’ ejaculated Snap Shot, as he turned to help Blossom from her goat. ‘* What has become of its people? I don’t 890 a living soul,” “Tdo! Look yonder! Merciful heaveas! you are gone!” Little Snap Shot turned just as a fall man, whose head was bandaged with a bloody rag, sii from a cabin a few yards away. “Curse your heart, you’ve touched the girl without m7 consent!” grated this individual, against whose shoulder a rifle leaped madly, “1 swore to kill the man who did thet, an’ I will!” Blossom threw herself from the white horse an 1 sprung toward the man with a startling cry. “No puttin’ in fer him, Blossom!” rung out over the leveled rifle, ‘0m Arizona Alf, an’ don’t you forget it!” A thrilling report checked Blossom’s speed, and as she turned to the horse she saw his young rider throw up his arms and pitch from the saddle with a cocked revolver in his hand. The weapon fell at her feet. “ve met Arizona Alf at last!” gasped the boy, looking up into her face as she stooped over him, Before she could reply a startling voice grated on her hearing, “Don’t touch the young tad girl! Pm going to finish him, hang me ef I ain’t!” “Not while I can defend him!” exclaimed Blossom, whirling upon the speaker with Snap Shot’s revolver glistening in her hand. ‘‘ Though you are Arizona Alf, you shall not complete the work you have begun. Halt, and lower your rifle! If you advance another step with it in that position I will send a bullet crashing through your brain. CHAPTER 1X, A JEALOUS MOUNTAINEER, “Tr you dare,” said the girl’s flashing eyes, though her lips remained closed behind the word that ends the preceding chapter. Snap Shot had-fainted, and lay at her feet, to all outward. appearances dead; but she stood resolutely in front of him, menacing Arizona Alf with the revolver. “ Hang me ef I ever thought she’d do thet!” murmured the oid miner. ‘She'll be wantin’ to marry the young tenderfoot ef my bullet hezn’t fixed him fer good. I can’t march for- ‘ard another step. I never thought Blossom would hold a drop on me.” With this Arizona Alf very sensibly lowered his rifle, amid the smiles of the rough men who had been drawn from the cabins by the start- ling shot. Blossom watched him narrowly as he came forward, a dark cloud on his brow and angry flashes in his eyes, ‘Who is he, girl?” he asked, looking from the unconscious horse-hunter to his protegee, * Snap Shot, he calls himself.” ‘By hokey! he’s no tenderfoot, after all. Anybody kin see thet with half an eye. Jehosa- phat! what a hoss!” And Arizona Alf began to admire the white steed, which had not moved since the fall of his rider. ‘I say, Blossom, you an’ this youngster hey dissolved pardnership now, bevn’t ye?” “We never had any interests in common, He was bringing me to Redeye, nothing more,” “ A kind of escort, hey?” “ Call it what you will.” “Wal, we'll hey to ’tend him till he mends, then—then, by Jove! Blossom, he’ll hev ter pack an’ travel!” By this time the girland Snap Shot were sur- rounded by the entire population of Redeye, “Corral thet animile! he’s a dandy!” suddenly exclaimed one of the men, and half a dozen hands moved toward White Rocket’s bridle- rein. But the horse was not going to be “corrated,” for all at once he threw up his head and darted off with a wild snort. ; Blossom heard the clicking of deadly locks and instantly threw herself before the would-be horse-catchers. “ Don’t slaughter the horse like that!” she eried. ‘‘That boy has risked his life for his property; give him another chance for it. Down with your weapons!” The last sentence was more a command than an appeal, and the horse was allowed to disap- pear without being stopped by a bullet. ‘* Now carry the boy into one of the cabins
Page 15
i aa Arizona Alf, the Miner. is and dress his wound,” the girl continued, turn- ing upon Arizona Alf. “1 guess Pll bey to touch’im arter all, Blos- som: but hang my old frame! ef I wouldn't sooner bury him. Grin an’ bear it, Alf, It won't be for long, thank fortin’!” A moment later Little Snap Shot was lifted from the ground, and the old miner was bear- ing him toward one of the cabins, The dirty-shirted roughs followed him with their eyes; but Blossom walked at the miner’s side, carrying the horse-hunter’s hat, and anx- iously regarding his pale face. Not a word passed between her and Arizona Alf until the cabin’s threshold had been crossed, and Snap Shot lay on a rough couch under the one window beside the door. **7n the first Plage, Blossom, look hyer,” sud- denly exclaimed the old man, pulling down the bloody bandage about his head, and displaying to her gaze a deep red furrowin which she ee have placed two of her fingers side by side. ‘“Who did that?” ‘“ Who, but the on’riest man in Arizony,” was the auswer, 4 “ Spanish Jack?” ‘““No. Spanish Jack’s a gentleman compared to the devil what marked Arizona Alf fer life. The Tiger would push a feller over a cliff; but hang me, ef I believe he’d deliberately shoot a helpless man. Thunder Sam is the boss demon’s name,” The gir] started. “He will come back to Redeye no more!” she exclaimed. “T hope he will, an’ while I’m hyer. I would willingly pass in my checks on death’s counter if he’d come ‘back to Redeye only fer five minutes! He shot to kill, but suthin’ turned his ball. Warit fate, Blossoin? You used to say thet fate fetched me to you arter that Injun massacre, when I found you under the Cones- toga. When I recovered arter Thunder Sam had left me fer dead, instead ov goin’ to ther Mountain Lodge, I came hyer, The fact is, girl, { didn’t know whar I war goin’ fer sartain. { fell down like one dead in the street, but the boys dressed my wound, an’ put me on my aps ag’in. You know what I’ve always said. No- body shall ever love you but Arizona Alf. Thet boy war in a fair way fer doin’ it when he came hyer, but he mustn’t do it, Blossom. He may never see his white hoss ag’in ef he does!” ‘* He has never mentioned love,” said the girl, “But we must not neglect him.” ‘Pll not do thet ef he’s the bitterest enemy I ever had.” Little Snap Shot’s wound was now searched for and found. To Blossom’s relief, so indicated by her looks, it was pronounced not very dangerous, Arizona Alf said that the worst thing he saw about it was that it would keep the youth con- fined to the cabin for some days, when he ought 2 be riding back to the ranch somewhere in the uth. It was evident that the miner wished that his shot had proved more deadly. ; ‘What! White Rocket gone again?” exclaim- ed the horse-hunter, when Blossom broke to him Bs. an account of the white steed’s exit from Red- eye. “‘I will have to begin my hunt over. There is no telling into whose hands my horse will fall next; but I will find him! e shall carry me back to the old ranch, if I have to fight a thousand enemies single-handed.” Determination lighted up the speaker's eyes and the girl who was his only auditor transfix bim with an admiring gaze. Not once during that long day did she leave the little cabin in which Snap Shot had been forced to take up his quarters. The door stood wide open to admit the brac- ing air, and the two young people thus strangely brought together conversed until the night ap- proached again, ' “T don’t care which comes first!” exclaimed Arizona Alf, as he brought his bronzed hand down upon the rough counter in the log saloon and gambling hell of Redeye. Ten men heard him, ‘*T say I don’t care a cuss which comes first— death to the boy er Thunder fam back to Red- eye!” he continued. ‘‘1 bevn’t any choice, Don’t I know thet if Snap Shot gits well the jig is up *%4wixt me an’ the a what I’ve raised from a shoot? An’ to think thet Blossom herself should uide him to Redeye! Spanish Jack? Oh, I’ve ergotten him! He did throw me over a cliff, an’ left me to take cure ov myself, which I did. Arter thet be came to Redeye an’ armed him- self, did he? Why didn’t he finish Thunder Sam instead of Buckhorn Bill? When I go back to the shanty what will I see? Thet girl sittin’ “close to the hoss-hunter an’ listenin’ to his infer- nal palaver. No! no more liquor fer me, I’m goin’ back to ’em sober.” The old Arizonian strode toward the door of the den. “* Hyer, boys, take my weepins,” be said sud- denly, stopping there and disarming himself. “Tm afraid ov myself to-night, break my old neck ef I ain’t! Ef I went, go yonder and see Blossom close to the youngster I might do su’thin’ desprit. No man shall ever make love to the mountain daisy an’ live. Thet’s my old oath.” Arizona Alf laid his bowie and revolvers side by side on the counter, and turned to the door once more, He bad scarcely reached the open air when he stopped and listened. “Thar’s a_hoss comin’ this way like a cy- clone,” he said, speaking aloud as if addressing some one, and his eyes blazed as he listened, ‘‘Hyer I am without a weepin’, but hang me ef [I'm goin’ to touch the shooters any more to- night.” He listened under the stars a moment longer, ea then darted toward the cabin he had just eft. . “* Hosses!” he exclaimed, appearing at the oor, The occupants of the place sprung across the threshold and halted on the outside with revol- vers in their hands, Every man seemed to hold their breath. All at once a horse with head erect and mane and tail streaming in the breeze, went past the group like a flash of light. “Great Cesar! thet hoss war a white one!”
Page 16
16 Arizona Alf, the Miner, exclaimed Arizona Alf, ‘‘ The boy’s milky steed hez come back to Redeye, an’—” ‘‘ Hush! hyer comes a hull herd!” F The whole camp now rung with the noise of hoofs, and twenty horses followed in the white steed’s wake, Well might the men of Redeye shrink against the cabins and withhold their fire. Every horse had a rider, and as they swept on after the magnificent quarry, Arizona Alf and his companions scarcely breathed, ‘Great God! whether them red devils catch White Rocket er not, they’ll come back an’ pay their respects to Redeye!” he ejaculated, ‘‘ Thar they go—the meanest lot ov Injuns thet ever stole a mustang er plundered a ranch. They hevyn’t time to stop now, but they'll come back, Isay. Git ready ter meet ’em, men ov Redeye,” and with the last word on his lips, the old miner darted away. He did not stop until he reached the open door of a certain cabin. Darkness reigned inside, ‘* Blossom, are ye thar?” asked Alf in anxious tones, No answer was returned. “Great serpents! what hez*happened?” He cleared the threshold at a bound, and scraped a lucifer match across one of the logs. The next moment a light flashed up in his face, and something that seemed to possess life struck his feet. Instantly the burning match fell from his hand, and he pounced upon the figure whose out- lines he had just made out. oil *Tt’s the girl—Blossom!” he exclaimed. ‘In the name of Heaven, what hez happened?” A gasp was the es Arizona Alf seemed beside himself with excite- ment, “ Whar’s the boy?” **Gone!” murmured the girl. **Thet suits me,” said Alf. ‘May he never come back to Redeye! The young skunk hez Yisened my life fer twenty years ahead. But ea go off ov his ownfccount; he warn’t able. “*No; his horse came back. The white ani- mal entered the hut, picked Snap Shot up with his teeth, an’ knocked me over as he dashed away.” ** Gewilliky crickets! what a hoss,” cried Ari- zona Alf, ‘Carried the boy cl’ar off, hey?” **- Yes; but what does that noise mean?” ““They’re comin’ back.” Blossom slid from her protector’s hands as he moved toward the door. She stole to his side and heard—what? A thousand Indian yells and the thunder of hoofs! The Apaches were coming back to Redeye. CHAPTER X. “WHO'S LIED—JACK OR PINKEYE?” WHETHER or not the red raiders had cap- tured White Rocket, Arizona Alf could not de- termine, Certain he was that the Apaches were charg- ing down upon the mountain town with the fury of a thousand demons. : They'll not git through Redeye erliye—all ov 'em won’t,” said the old miner. ‘The boys I leftin front ov Jerusalem’s will empty a few saddles, Hyer they come! Now, look out, Blossom.” He stepped back from the door a pace, still holding to the girl’s hand, The next minute the red Bedouins of the Southwest border ee past, uttering yells that almost shook the cabins, “‘ Jehosaphat! what a herd!” ejaculated Ari- zona Alf. ‘* Thar they go, an’ without the white hoss an’ his boy pard, Whar ar’ the men ov Redeye? Hey they fled like gophers to their holes?” All at once a thunderous volley replied to the wild yells; the doors of a furnace seemed to open before the Apaches! Indians fell headlong and backward, uttering death cries, or dying without a groan! The front of the main body seemed to melt away before the fire of the mountain men, Horses dashed on riderless, or with dead riders clinging to their manes, !'ew Indians reached the ground. The battle, if battle the attack can be called, for the* Apaches did not reply to the deadly volleys, did not last over three minutes, The Indians rushed on, fired at as long asa chamber remained unemptied, nor drew rein short of two miles from camp. There they stopped and investigated the casualties. ‘* Back to the den of the Mountain Serpents!” _cried a stalwart Indian whose scalp-lock had been shotaway. ‘“‘Let the den be swept. clean by the arms of the Apaches! Back to the new trail! When the sun comes up let him shine up-. on the place where the white lodges stood.” An eager shout anwered these words. **Don’t be fools!” said a voice at this momen- tous juncture, and the Apaches started back as they found themselves confronted by a horse- man who had just reined in his steed between them and Redeye. ‘‘Take your dead off and bury them, and thank your luck that the men of Redeye had to shoot by the light of the stars, The speaker wore a large sombrero, and the old lace that broidered his jacket scintillated ere and there in the starlight. Tae animal he bestrode was a magnificent specimen of horseflesh, and champed his bit while his rider addressed the astonished red- skins. “Spanish Jack!” ejaculated several Indians in good English. ‘* Let Gold Lace look behind the warriors of the Apache nation,” “T see! The men of Redeye must have tum- bled one-half of your band,” Spanish Jack said with a smile. ‘‘ Now go back there on vengeance bent and they'll finish the work. Where’s Red Flash?” ‘“* The pale-face that took the white horse cut Red Flash dead with his knife.” *€ And killed him?” ‘No! Red Flashis getting well in the moun- tain. He will liye to pay the bowie-king back.” ‘‘ He'll have to get up early if he wants to settle with Thunder Sam. If you are bound to go back to Redeye I won't stand in your 7%
Page 17
ad Arizona Alf, the Miner. 14% ways but I tell you that itll be the end of you Ui Spanish Jack drew his steed aside as he fin- ished, and he pointed toward Redeye as he gazed into the Indians’ faces, ‘“‘There’s the road to Redeye!” he continued. ** Santissima! I wouldn’t give a moccasin for your chancesif you ride back. Don’t you think they’re waiting for you?” The effect of the Tiger’s sudden appearance and his words was apparent. The boldest Indian seemed to shrink from the mining-camp; those who were most clamorous for vengeance were seen to draw back, Spanish Jack's eyes twinkled with humor when he saw the red-skins shrink from the fray. ig they wouldn’t go down to Redeye I’m not going to back out,” he said in audible tones. ‘*T told Thunder Sam that [’'d return his revol- vers and I might as well fulfill my promise now as at another time. The Mountain Lodge is in ashes and the girl must beat Redeye. If the boy really escaped from the ropes I tied him with last night, why is he not there, too? Come, Mon- terey; we're going to eye.” It was dangerous for Spanish Jack to re-enter the place in which a few hours previous he bad sent a ball through the head of Buckhorn Bill; but this thought probably never entered his head. “Tm not going through Redeye like the Injuns did,” he said. ‘I left the town faster than I wanted to when I was here last; this time I’m going toleave when I get ready ifI have to face every revolver in the camp.” It was not to be expected that Redeye would be quiet so soon after the Apaches’ charge down its main thoroughfare. Its denizens would be on the watch with their fingers at the trigger, and the first enemy to show himself would in all likelihood receive a bullet in his head. Asif anxious to reconnoiter without subject- ing himself to too great a danger, Spanish Jack slid from the saddle fifty yards from the last cabin in the westeru suburbs of Redeye and crept forward on foot. He carried in his hand the ready revolver of the border. From hut to hut he glided, now walking erect and now sneaking forward like a prowling spy. His well known sombrero hung from the Pees mel of the saddle he had left behind, and his long black bair almost covered his broad shoul- ers. He reached the middle of the camp unper- ceived, and leaned against the logs of a certain cabin with an expression of victory on his hand- some yellow face. “What woulln’t them fellows down yonder give to know that Spanish Jack isin Redeye?” be murmured, as sounds of human voices reached his ears from aspot on the other side of the street diagonally opposite his halting-place. ‘If I warn’t here on a bit of business, santildo ! but I'd have some rough sport. There goes that i aaa ranter off again! What does he say . The ae of Arizona leaned forward and lis- tened with much interest, ‘“Thar’s a meaner skunk in this kentry than Red Flash!” came to Spanish Jack’s ears, in coarse, mad tones. ‘You kin rake Arizona with a fine-tooth comb, ef thar war sich a thing in the Territory, an’ you wouldn't turn up a blacker devil than Spanish Jack. He’s led them very Injuns time an’ ag’in, an’ nobody knows it better than the pards ov Redeye. Thunder Sam an’ the boys what went off to avenge Buckhorn Bill will never catch the gold- laced Greaser. He said he’d return Thunder's revolvers, but he lied. He’s a coward when he’s pushed to the wall. He's nothin’ but a common hoss-thief, who sw’ars in Spanish an’ does noth- in’ fair in American. I’ve hed my say. I hate Spanish Jack worse than I hate the re hee fer Bill an’ 1 used to be pards. It’s a pity the yaller ns ismt byer to hear Pinkeye’s opinion oy im. The Tiger of Arizona could not see the speaker turn from the group he had just ad- dressed, but his quick ears told him that he was approaching. With the gliding movements of a tiger, he moved toward the front of the log shanty and hugged the wall. “Pll show Redeye that you’re a liar, Pink- eye!” behissed. ‘The man who swears in Span- ish is nearer than you think!” On came the man who had just denounced the stampeder in such unmeasured terms. To Spanish Jack’s joy, he came straight to- ward the hut. : “Halt! he hissed. ‘Who's the liar, Pink- eye?” Pinkeye recoiled. “Great God! it is Spanish Jack himself!” ‘* No—the Tiger of Arizona!” The hand that darted at the miner caught the arm that moved toward a revolver already cocked, and the starlight gleamed on the bright blade that shot ‘pwns! A second did not intervene between this ac- tion and the terrible downward stroke. With a half-stifled groan Pinkeye reeled away. A terrible frenzy seemed to have taken posses- sion of the Arizona Tiger. His teeth were heard to grate harshly, as he crossed the space that intervened between the cabin and the group of rough men who were revealed by the light that streamed through the open door of Redeye’s main saloon. His eyes glittered like a serpent’s; he was bent on mischief. ' Suddenly he brought up before tke group, which he took in with a single glance. ‘* Answer my question!” he continued, sternly. “T came to Redeye on business, but I never shrunk from a sport like this, Look at Pinkeye and ther photograph Spanish Jack with your eyes. Who's lied—Jack or Pinkeye?” The question answered itself. The man who towered like a giant in front of that almost pallid collection of roughs, with death in bis outstretched hands, was the living refutation of Pinkeye’s charge. “You rac by a sart’in!” said one of the group at last. ‘‘But do you expect to git out a Redeye alive, Spanish?” si “T do, and I will!” was the quick TESPODS®,
Page 18
and the next second the roughs of Redeye were staggering from the deadly weapons of the Tiger of Arizona. Such a terrible visitor had never penetrated the camp before. He was worse than the Apaches. CHAPTER XI MISSING HIS CHANCE. “Wat does all thet shootin’ mean? One man’s doin’ it all as any fool kin tell. In the name ov thunder, who’s come to Redeye?” The speaker stood on a mountain trail whose rocks were elevated several hundred feet above the ground on which Redeye was built, He held a horse by the bridle-rein as if he had dismounted because of the roughness of the road and he was listening ifitently to the shots that rung out in startling succession on the night air. Once or twice he thought he saw the flasbes of the deadly revolvers, but the lights were far ane and might be fire-flies, “1 said I wouldn’t go back to the camp until I could ride White Rocket through it, didn’t I?” he went on after a moment’s pause. “I'vea notion to break thet promise an’ go down thar an’ see what’s goin’ on. Snap Shot—curse_his Onery picter!—euchered me out oy the white hoss an’ [ mustn’t think ov recoverin’ the ani- mile to-night. This Injun critter is good enough till I kin git a better one, Thet other hoss shall be White Rocket as sure as my name is Thunder Sam.” The man on the mountain did not listen a mo- ment longer. Redeye lay at his feet as it were, at the foot of a trail hardly fit for a horse to travel, but Thunder Sam did not hesitate. Down he went, still gripping the leathern bridle, and with his weather-beaten face con- stantly turned toward the camp. “T hope they'll keep it up till I kin take a hand in the game,” fell from his lips. ‘‘ Hang me! ef I ain’t sp'ilin’ fer a fizht, an’ hey been ever since the boy got his hoss back.” * Allat once a wild, triumphant cheer echoed far and wide. The mad shots grew still. “Jehosaphat! I’m too late,” said the desper- ado, halting fora moment. ‘ Arter sech shoot- in’ as thet I’d think thar’d be a dozen funerals in Redeye. Thar goes thet cheer ag’in! The feller what gave it came out on top.” While he uttered the last sentences, Thunder Sam resumed his journey; he pushed on faster than before. A strange stillness brooded over the camp when he entered it at the end nearest the moun- tains; but voices suddenly struck the desper- ado’s ears. “*Somebody’s alive, anyhow,” he ejaculated witha grin. “Tl know in a minute er two who did all thet terrible pepperin’.” - Continuing on, he passed between two cabins, and came suddenly upon a scene revealed by a torch one end of which was sticking in the ground. He saw the moving figures of men dressed Arizona Alf, the Miner. like himself, and recognized those whom he had left in possession of Redeye. “Who did all thet?’ queried Thunder Sam, halting, and fixing his gaze on a number of hu- man figures that occupied various positions sug- gestive of death on the ground, His question was followed by instant recog- nition and without being answered, Thunder Sam found himself surrounded by the mountain roughs, ‘*’You’ve seen me afore, boys,” he exclaimed. “T asked a question awhile ago. Who wiped the boys out to-night?” ‘The only man in Arizona who could do it an’ git away,” was the reply. ‘‘ He came like a ghost, but armed to the teeth, an’ went off ppd whirlwind, You know him now, Thun- er. j The desperado ground his teeth. “Did he do it with the men-killers he took from me last nigbt?” he asked. “* He did.” ‘Then, by George! he shall pay for it!” ‘You've said thet afore, Thunder Sam,” ‘“‘Thet I did, an’ ’'U make it stronger by say- in’ itag’in! He got away?” * All Arizony couldn’t hey corraled such a devil. Why, he worked yer shooters as ef all he had to do war to pull trigger. Jerusalem! what shots he made! Thar isn’t a man among the ten what hezn’t a ball between his peepers, Yes, sir, he got away; may I be hanged, Thun- der, ef he ever missed a shot. Arizona Alf s— ‘ Arizona Alf?” echoed Thunder Sam. ‘‘ Where is Arizona Alf?” “ Hyer I am!” Thunder Sam laid his hand on his revolver as he wheeled upon the man who had spoken in language not to be misunderstood. ‘You did come back, didn’t you?” queried Alf, coming forward entirely unarmed, but with a quivering finger covering the man he ad- dressed. ‘'Thar you stand, Thunder Sam, arter tryin’ to rob Redeye ov Arizona Alf. Ob, you white-livered catamount, you ought to l’arn to shoot better arter dark. Stand off, boys, an’ look at the meanest man in Redeye—the man what shoots the pard he hez bunked with, the pard what dragged him ten miles through the Colorado snow-drifts to save his life. Such a man is Thunder Sam! Lay hands on him, fer I won’t touch’im, What will you do with Thun- der Sam, men ov Redeye?” Arizona Alf’s words cut to the bone, and not a movement was made until the last one had been spoken, and the outstretched arm fell again to its owner’s side. _ “ He’s a mean liar!” roared Thunder Sam, starting toward his accuser, his face dark as a thunder-cloud. “I answer his charges with my revolver. Stand back an’ give me a fair show. This time I will not fail!” But the maddened desperado was not allowed to carry out his threat. Several men threw themselves upon him, and Arizona Alf-men, who feared not the formidable revolver clutched in his bronzed hand, nor the explosions of his rage. A bitter laugh rung from Alf’s lips as Thun- der Sam was hurled back, and, despite his re- a
Page 19
Arizona Alf, the Miner. sistance, deprived of his weapon and entirely disarmed. “T thought this war Redeye,” the villain grated. “Its no other place,” answered Alf, quiet- ly. ‘I’m goin’ to give you a chance fer yer life, Thunder, though thet’s more than you gave me last night. Arizony is a big place, but it’s too small fer us. Bring Blossom hyer.” Thunder Sam’s eyes dilated. ‘*T am here already,” said a girlish voice, at his right hand, and he saw near by the beauti- ful creature whom he had sworn to win. She never looked more beautiful than when she stood in tke glare of the torch with her eyes riveted upon Arizona Alf waiting for his com- mands since he had called her. “You've forgiven her, hevn’t you?’ said Sam, glancing at the old miner. ““Porgiven her for what?” ; “For lovin’ the young skunk who came up from the South to hunt up his horse,” Blossom’s face crimsoned. “ A lie made up on the sptr of the moment is as good as one studied out!” she cried, ad- vancing upon Thunder Sam whom she regarded with a pair of flashing eyes, ‘‘ You can’t turn Arizona Alf against me, Thunder Sam. You don’t know what has passed between us since sundown.” A cold sneer curled the desperado’s Tips. “Oh! lie it out ef itlldo you any good,” he said, half under his breath, then turned to his enemy again. ‘*‘ Whar’s thet chance you war jes’ talkin’ about?” Without replying Arizona Alf brought the girl to his side with a look and bent over her, ‘The ropes in the shanty, Blossom—I want oe he said, in a whisper, and the girl started to) Three minutes later she reappeared on the scene with several strong ropes of good length which Arizona Alf took from her hand with a smile of satisfaction. “ “Hyer, Big Hand!” he said, tossing the cords to a stalwart fellow who stood nearby. ‘ Fix Thunder an’ me like you fixed me an’ the half- breed chief thet time on the Rio Grande.” “Thet’s no fair way ov fightin’!” vociferated Thunder Sam, recoiling despite the cordon of swarthy men by whom he was completely sur- rounded, ‘I’ve heard ov yer tussle with Yel- low Jim, I won't fight thet way.” “ Tt's givin’ you a chance, Thunder.” “A blamed slim one!” and the speaker’s eyes wandered over the crowd that listened. “Tie us, Big Hand,” said Arizona Alf. “‘ Thet mountain coyote hed his way last night, ’m goin’ to hev mine now.” Ata sign from the man called Big Hand, the circle contracted, and Arizona Alf stepped for- ward and placed his right leg alongside of Thun- der Sam’s left, “Tie us to one another from the knee down. Now, go to work, Big Hand.” The man with the ropes stooped to perform his task. “You want me to think, Alf, thet you’re givin’ me the advantage by offering me yer right leg,” said Sam, catching the old miner’s glance, “ Don’t I know thet yer left hand is jes’ | 8 t 19 ez good ez yer right when it comes to handlin’ the bowie? But VU fight you. This is Redeye, an’ I’m not Yellow Jim!” The work of uniting the two men progressed rapidly, and was completed in a few minutes. hen Big Hand rose end stepped back, it was to announce that the duel could begin. “The bowies now,” said Alf. Several were drawn and thrnst forward. “Take yer choice, Thunder,” said the miner. Thunder Sam selected one, and straightened up. ‘Hold the torch in front ov us—thar. Now, ar’ you ready, Thunder?” “lam ready. Give the signal!” The next instant, Arizona Alf burst into a loud laugh that sounded strangely at that time and place. Thunder Sam’s eyes stared at the laughter, but bis lips did not move, “Tm no fool, Thunder Sam,” said Arizona Alf, becoming serious in a mcment. “TI only wanted to see how eager you war to wipe me arter failin’ last night—thet’s all. Hyer go the ropes! Look out fer yer Jeg!” Arizcna Alf stooped before the astonished des- perado could recover from his astonishment, and in another instant be stepped back, freed by a bowie. “You've got to die like a dog!” he cried, ad- dressing ThunderSam. ‘I’ve given you all the chance you shall have. Why didn’t you give me the bowie while I war cuttin’ the cords? Thet war yer chance, Thunder. Nowa limb an’ a rope shall deprive Redeye ov another citizen. You war a fool fer comin’ back hyer.” “A fool? Yes, an’ etarnal fool!” grated Thunder Sam. ‘I missed my opportunity, an’ I ought ter die fer doin’ it. Men ov Redeye, do yer duty.” CHAPTER XII. FOR LIFE AND A HORSE. WHILE the events just recorded were trans- piring at Redeye, the white horse that bad en- tered Arizona Alf’s cabin and jerked Snap Shot from the rough cot on the floor was plunging madly along an uncouth road with the boy no longer banging from his mouth, but clinging for dear life to his flowing mane. Blossom’s brief account of the singular abduc- tion was the true one; but Snap Shot could not realize fully what had happened until he found himself a long distance from the camp and the prisoner of bis own steed. Weakened by the wound received at Arizona Alf’s hands, the young horse-hunter with diffi- culty changed bis situation when the animal stop) for a breathing-spell; and when White — et resumed his flight the boy was on his ack, The speed of the white horse had left the Apaches far behind. They had turned back to charge through Redeye, and to encounter the deadly revolvers of the roughs of Arizona. His thoughts went back to the girl he had been forced to leave behind, and to her jealous guardian, who had sworn that for a man to love Blossom was to seal his own doom, ‘Th: thought of Alf heated the horse-hunter’s
Page 20
20 Arizona Alf, the Miner, blood; it sent ueedle-like arrows through his wound, , ‘* Until this moment I have thought but little of trying to win Blossom,” he exclaimed; ‘ but now—now, old madman, I am going to inaugu- rate a new campaign. I have recovered White Rocket and now I am going to fight for the mountain rose. I give you fair warning of my intention, Alf. I would proclaim it boldly were you here atthis moment. My campaign in this country has just begun.” Suddenly the horse stopped and elevated the tips of his creamy ears. The halt at once roused the boy, and he thought of his helpless condition, helpless be- cause he was unarmed, and in a part of the country which he believed he had never pene- trated before, : Stock-still in the lonely trail stood the horse, with neck craned forward and head slightly turned to one side, while his nostrils occasion- ally snuffed the air. ‘IT see nothing, Rocket,” said Snap Shot in low tones, after several minutes had passed. *“ What excites you, old fellow? Your eyes and ears are better than mine; but what is the mat- ter now?” White Rocket moved backward as though a serpent, the horse’s dread, was creeping for- ward, and the youth strained his eyes to catch a glimpse of the cause of the steed’s subdued excitement. At last the danger seemed to have been passed, for White Rocket had started on once more, “My wound—ah! there it goes again!” was suddenly forced from Snap Shot's lips, ‘‘ It has reminded me of Arizona Alf’s attempt at mur- der.” And he ground his teeth. ‘Find me a soft place near the trail, Rocket, where I can liedown and hold the bridle whileI sleep, I must have rest. Your fright has excited me, { thought I would keep cool, but—” The horse had stopped again, this time at what seemed to be the mouth of a cave at one side of the trail. “A shelter for me so soon?” exclaimed Snap Shot joyously. “I will accept it, and thank fortune besides,” e He lowered himself to the ground as gently as possible, and almost shouted for joy when he found himself on a carpet of soft grass that seemed to invite his pain-racked limbs, Without inquiring into the depth of the open- ing in the hillside, he drew the bridle-rein over White Rocket’s head, and at once composed his Jimbs in the opening for a short rest on the carpet of green. The faithful horse stood sentry over his young master, having placed himself between him and the trail, and the stars looked down upon one of the oiidest tableaux they had ever seen, Consciousness left Little Snap Shot almost as soon as his head touched the grass; but he re- tained his hold on the rein, and enjoyed the pone slumber that closed his eyes. reeping upon him through the stygian gloom of that mountain retreat was a being that had the eyes of the panther, though the figure of a man. _ White Rocket suddenly pricked up his ears, and drawing back a few inches removed the rein from the sleeper’s half-open hand. What did the horse see? Stooping over Snap Shot was a half-naked and gaunt Apache Indian, the ogre of the moun~ tain cave, and, without doubt, the young horse- hunter’s evil genius! The two eyes of the savage blazed like globes: of fire, and seemed to devour the youth with mad intensity. For a moment he hung over the horse-hunter, then started and fixed his flashing orbs on the horse, regarding him with equine astonishment, hy White boy an’ his horse come to Red Flash!” muttered the red lips, ‘* The Great Spirit bring the snow horse back after the pale wild-cat cut. Red Flash, an’ rode off on his back.” Red Flash! Here, then, was the Apache chief to whom Snap Shot owed all his misfortunes, the great red-skin who had taken White Rocket from the grama pastures of the old ranch, and trans- ferred him to other scenes; the Indian front whom Thunder Sam wrenched the coveted prize the night of the destruction of Blossom’s cabin home, and the leader of the red-men who had charged through Redeye! Red Flash cared more for the white steed which stood before him once more; when he recognized the animal his red right hand moved eagerly toward the bridle, ut the horse uttered a snort and shrunk away. “Phe snow-horse shall not escape Red Flash if the Apache does carry the pale-face’s knife- mark on his body!” exclaimed the Indian. ‘*The chief of the red warriors will ride him toward the sunrise Iand, an’ there let his wound heal.” The struggle for the mastery between the In- dian and the horse roused the youth, Tn an instant be was on his feet and seemed to take in the situation at a glance, “Back, pale boy!” shouted Red Flash, as Snap Shot started forward, forgetful of his unarme condition, ‘He will die under the white horse's feet if he touches Red Flash. Back, white rider|” “Never! the horse is mine, mean dog. You may be Red Flash himself. If so, I am glad that we have met. Look out for your throat,. red devil!” . Snap Shot’s eager spring made the Indian turn in self-defense; but his left hand would not re- linquish the captured bridle. . The horse was too precious a prize to be sur- rendered without a desperate fight, The borse-hunter’s bound cleared the space that intervened between him and the red horse- thief. He clutched vengefully at Red Flash’s throat, but was thrown off, and reeled toward the mouth of the cavern, ‘You don’t get rid of me thus!” he cried, re- covering in an instant, and before the Apacbe chief could turn his attention to the horse again, “My life-blood is not dearer to me than White Rocket. It’ll be an endless day when you can call yourself his master.” : Snap Shot threw himself forward again, this time determined to end the contest in some man- ner,
Page 21
*» Arizona Alf, the Miner. 21 ** Zip! zip!” he cried to the horse, and the next moment the animal sprung toward him despite the opposing chief who was dashed aside and almost trampled under foot. A mad yell rose from the Apache’s throat, for he had been forced to relinquish his hold on the bridle-vein in order to escape death or injury. “Pale boy die now!” he cried. ‘* We shall see!” answered Snap Shot, bracing himself for the Indian’s charge, Separated from the horse, Red Flash came down upon his brave young antagonist with up- lifted hunting-knife. “‘ White horse shall carry the Apache chief!” he vociferated, ‘In the mountain trail he will leave the palg boy, for the winged wolves of the skies!” Ere the two foes could meet a living thunder- bolt dashed between, It was the horse himself! Struck by the plunging steed, Red Flash was forced aside, and sent reeling away, with the bloodless knife falling from his hand. Snap Shot fared but little better, for he, too, was hurled back, and tripping on a loose stone, went to the ground, All this in the twinkling of an eye. For some moments after the white steed’s in« tervention, all was still. The horse turned after performing the deed, and seemed to enjoy his work, 2 Red Flash picked himself up with a growl, aud ran his eyes over the battle-ground, ‘“‘He wants bis knife,” passed through Snap Shot’s mind, and at that moment catching sight of an object that glittered in the starlight, he pounced eagerly upon it, At that same instant the Indian saw it also, There was a leap on the part of each, and the be foes—red and white—met over the coveted ade, “It is not for you, red thief!” cried Little Snap Shot, bres bis foot on the knife, and darting madly at the Apache, who was forced to recoil. ‘* Now, come on and let us decide the battle for the best horse in Arizona.” Well might the horse-hunter throw this chal- lenge into the teeth of the foe; his right hand clutched the prize of the battle—the knife of the Apache. * CHAPTER XIII. SPANISH JACK’S VICTORY. Rep FuAsH was not disposed to disregard the challenge. : He sprung with a yell straight at the horse- hunter. iy This time White Rocket did not interfere. There was a blow, a half-stifled ejaculation of rage, and the well-matched enemies collided, Red Flash’s arms were thrown round the outh; he grated his teeth like a dying man as ss lifted him from the ground, and started to- ward the mouth of the cavern. Had Little Snap Shot's stroke failed? _ : The infuriated Apache, still hugging his enemy to his breast, disappeared beyond the forbidding threshold. ; The white borse sprung forward as if bent on i RE nnneenEEnneeaeemene oem ne) his master’s rescue; but the Indian had been too quick for him; no horse could enter the cave, Like one who knew the dark trails of the cav- ern, Red Flash pressed on with teeth firm set and eyes that fairly flashed, but no longer with the look they had once borne, He turned suddenly to the right, and came upon the glare of a fire which, burning on the floor of the cavern, illuminated an apartment of good dimensions, “Down to- where the serpents hiss in the darkness!” fell from his lips. ‘Red Flash will yet ride the snow horse at the head of his war- rior band! The knife of the pale boy is in his breast, but the Great Spirit will make Red Flash strong again!” Snap Shot felt himself being borne forward swiftly, but with a certain unsteadiness of gait. He could not wrench himself from the grasp of the red demon that clutched him, His only hope was that death would seize Red Flash before he could carry out his dread pur- pose, whatever it was. But the Indian’s vitality fought like a lion against death, Suddenly Snap Shot felt the hands of his foe tear bim away, and then in the light of the fire he caught a glimpse of an opening in the ground. | A horrible shudder ran over bis frame as the — terrible intentions flashed across his rain. ‘“White boy find the poison snakes in their den. Red Flash will then go back to the snow- horse he tock from the grama grass where the sun shines hot!” Little Snap Shot niade a desperate effort to break from the cbief’s grasp, but there was no escape. With his breath leaving him in gasps, Red Flash held his yictim over the gaping pit, which, to the boy horse-hunter, looked ‘ike the chasm of doom, Twenty seconds followed Red Flash’s last words, and then Snap Shot felt himself falling through darkness and space. His brain was active for one awful moment; he heard the triumphant ejaculation of his arch enemy like the laugh of the devil incarnate, and then down—down toward the bottom of that snake-infested pit. Ked Flash leaned over the edge of the hole and listened for a moment; then he went back to the fire and drew out a torch. A moment later he threw it down the open- ing, and watcbed it descend like a fiery arrow until it struck, apparently, a thousand feet be- low, and sent upward a shower of sparks! Satisfied with his victory, Red Flash turned away and moved toward the mouth of the cavern, Eagerness carried him forward with mad bounds, and an exclamation left his lips when his gaze fell upon the horse that waited for his young master in the starlight. ‘* The snow-horse is Red Flash’s forever!” White Rocket tried to avoid the red-skin, but the Apache was too quick for him, and with a ery of triumph that went echoing over the hills, he threw himself into the saddle and turned the horse's head toward the east!
Page 22
22 Arizona Alf, the Miner. TN It was Red Flash’s victory! ~ Urged from the spot by the rider, whom he vainly tried to shake off, White Rocket shot arrow-like down the trail. He seemed to strain every nerve, and soon threw out proof that he was ‘‘ the best horse in Arizona.” The cave and its prisoner were left behind in a flash; the stars caught glimpses of the white horse that followed that winding trail with the i that a horse follows a straight one at noon- ay. “ Halt!” rung suddenly out in distinct tones, but Red Flash paid no attention to the com- mand, On, on went the white steed, as though flying from a thousand enemies. “Caramba! it’s White Rocket!” and the speaker lowered his revolver, and wheeling his steed, darted after the horse which had passed him like a Pawnee arrow. Allat once Red Flash stirred, but could not raise himself in the saddle, He turned his head, however, and heard the hoofs that thundered behind him—heard them, and added a new light to his glazing eyes. He tried to rein White Rocket in, but bis arm seemed too feeble for the task; the horse carried him on now despite his wishes, “On, snow steed, then!” he cried. ‘‘ Carry Red Flash to the trails which the hawk’s eye cannot see. He will ride you at the head of the Apache nation again.” That desire, always uppermost in the red chief’s mind, now seemed the only one that urged him on. He threw himself forward on the horse’s neck, and the dark stains on the white skin grew moist again. Red Flash saw them glisten in the brilliant starlight, and gritted his teeth. Well did he know that it was the best blood of the bravest chief of the Apache nation. Suddenly the red band was jerked from among the silver mane, the chief’s body tottered to one side, his other hand left the bridle, and a mo- ment later White Rocket was riderless, He heard not the steed that galloped from the west, nor saw the careering horss that sprung over him and bore his rider‘on after White Rocket. This last horse was ridden by a man whose sombrero was thrown back by the wind, and whose dark hair floated behind him like the pen- nant of a pirate craft. He plied his spurs madly and without cessa- tion; his whole heart was wrapped upin the chase, “Now or never!” he exclaimed. ‘*On the back of that white steed I can laugh at the men of Redeye. Santissima! but didn’t they stag- ger from my men-killers to-night? It cost them eleven men to learn that Pinkeye lived! Aha! Spanish Jack is yet master of the situation.” The man was the Tiger of Arizona, His spurs were bloody and his face was hot. The horse he rode seemed to know what was wanted of him, for he stretched away against the night wind with incredible speed. At last the race—the wildest one those old hills had yet seen—terminated, Spanish Jack sent up a shout of triumph. A horse panting heavily, but with eye un- dimmed, was waiting for him on the trail. The gold-laced despsrado leaned forward ex- ultingly,and his tawny hand clutched the foamy rein. * At last!” he cried, ‘‘ By heavens! I’d sooner possess this animal than rule the world! A cheer for the victory of Spanish Jack!” and up went the big sombrero. ’ CHAPTER XIV. A MOMENTARY TRIUMPH. ‘* Can it be that my horse-hunt is to end mis- erably in this horrid place? I will not believe it! Fortune did not bring me into this country to desert me here with Red Flash the victor, I will escape to settle with that red-skin the next time we meet, Ab! the torch that shot past me awhile ago has gone out, but the fire in the cavern up yonder still burns,” Little Snap Shot, the speaker, was in a peril- ous position, His surroundings were dark and gloomy; he could not see his hand when placed in front of his face, but some distance overhead he saw the feeble glow of a fire. Red Flash had intended that he should be hurled headlong to the bottom of the old shaft in the’ cave; but fate, as if determined to baffle the mad Apache, had interfered strangely in the youth’s behalf. At one day, many years perhaps anterior to the date of our story, a platform was built for some purpose in the shaft. It was about fifty feet from the top. The planks had almost rotted away, and a portion of Snap Shot’s body had fallen through. If the young horse-hunter had not thrown out his hands and buried them in the soft wood, he would have descended through the gap to a death too horrible to contemplate. Through this gap Red Flash’s torch went with a hiss, thus deceiving the Indian as to Snap Shot’s fate, and leaving the boy to hold bis breath and move not until his enemy’s de- parture. Perish in that old shaft after being miracu- lously saved by the decaying platform he would not! There was a trail before him which he would follow to the end, despite the wound inflicted by Arizona Alf at Redeye, a hurt which, strange to say, did not pain him now. He tested the strength of the old planks before he attempted to ascend to the cave above, ‘“*My horse has been lost again,” he said to himself, ‘‘I have sworn to ride him back to the old ranch, and I shall. I can forgive Alf his shot; but Red Flash his work, never!” Eager to escape, now that he knew that his red foe had departed, Little Snap Shot felt the dark sides of the shaft, Suddenly an exclamation of discovery es- caped him; his fingers had found a niche in the wall, ‘* Some unfortunate has been imprisoned here before me,” he said. ‘He possessed a knife, which I do not, and he cut a path to the top of i the shaft, A thousand thanks, my unknown
Page 23
Arizona Alf, the Miner. 23 friend!” And the horse-hunter at once began to put bis discovery to good use. The ascent was toilsome and extremely dan- gerous; to fall back might be todart through the gap underneath, and die at last at the bot- tom of the shaft. But Little Snap Shot’s courage was equal to the emergency. At length bis hands rested on the edge of that loathsome pit, and then he joyfully drew his body out, to sink exhausted in the light of the dying fire. “Saved!” he ejaculated. ‘‘Now look out, Red Flash, if you still live! My horse shall be found! I am going to keep my oath to the letter!” The young Arizonian went forward to the opening of the cavern, to the spot where he and the Apache chief had battled for the mastery. Not a sound now disturbed the stillness of the bewitching night. White Rocket, the horse, was nowhere to be seen, and Red Flash in departing had left no vis- ible trail. For a long time Snap Shot stood leaning against the wall of the cave at its mouth, the only living person on the spot. ‘One must have arms to cope successfully with his enemies in Arizona!” he suddenly ex- claimed. ‘‘ = came to this place weaponless, and Iam in the same condition jnow. If Red Flash was left here by his warriors, he must have bad more arms than a knife. I will see if the cave cannot arm me.” He went back into the cavern and took a burning stick from the fire. He was going to search the place for Red Flash’s weapons. The hunt terminated abruptly over a dirty couch composed of several blankets. The butt of a revolver protruded from be- neath them. Little Snap Shot pounced upon the find with an exclamation of joy. ‘See what fortune does for a fellow when he deserves help!” and he went toward the fire again. ‘‘I want no better ally than this wea- pon. With it in my hands I feel able to cope with the whole Apache nation.” Thus armed by fate, Snap Shot went to the opening again and mounted guard. The night air was not cold, but there was a certain loneliness around him that was not cal- culated to give a buoyancy to his spirits. Once or twice he fell into a light doze, from which he roused himself, and at last saw the dawn of another day. : He had a right to wonder what had happened at Redeye since his departure. = Blossom would wonder whither White Rocket had borne him, and whether the pursuin Apaches had not overtaken the white steed an his master. Snap Shot knew nothing about the slaughter of the red-skins by the men of Redeye: nothing of Spanish Jack’s terrible visit to the camp, and nothing, either, of Thunder Sam’s return and his apprehension by his former comrades at Arizona Alf’s command. These were events of which the young horse- hunter knew nothing; they had taken place | second of time it seemed to me. elapsed since his strange abduction from the camp. In the flush of morning he leaned toward the trail and scanned it closely. Sometbing seemed to tell him that it could not remain deserted long. The Apaches might be expected at the cave at any time, and if Spanish Jack was still in the country, why might he not come? “Heavens!” suddenly exclaimed the horse- hunter; “I have not looked nor wished in vain;” and he drew back quickly at sight of the object which had come in view. “T expect no friend here, therefore I must be prepared,” he continued, looking to the con- — of the revolver firmly clutched in his right and, A minute showed him the outlines of a horse advancing from toward Redeye, and he shrunk to the mouth of the cavern with burning eyes. Another minute wore away; he heard the sound of hoofs on the flinty trail; the horse and his rider were very near. Little Ene Shot waited until he saw the steed’s nostrils; then he sprung forward. “ Halt or die!” rung sternly from his lips. A startling cry was the quick response, and the revolver Jeveled at the rider instantly fell. ‘*Blossom! thank Heaven!” and Snap Shot went forward with iv beaming in his eyes. “You still live—I am glad of that!” re- sponded the fair young creature, who leaned from the saddle with her eyes fixed on the as- tonished youth. “TI did not know what had become of you, and I feared the worst. Your horse came and left like a thunderbolt last night, but when the Indians came back without you, | knew that you had eluded them, Ah! terrible events have taken place in Redeye since then.” ‘¢ Tell me,” said Snap Shot eagerly. He stood at the horse’s side looking up into Blossom’s face. ; Without hesitating, Arizona Alf’s protegee proceeded to narrate the events we have al- ready witnessed; Snap Shot listened like a per- son amazed. “ The climax was reached when Thunder Sam came back,” said the girl. ‘In less than twenty minutes there was a noose about his neck, and they marched him to the big tree at the edge of the camp. They were going to hang him for shooting Arizona Alf down with- out mercy.” “ That was right!” Blossom smiled. ‘The meanest wolf in the pack has friends,” she went on. “It was so with Thunder Sam. His hands were tied on his back, but that did. not prevent his escape.” “The devil got away, then?” “He got clear off, 1 am sorry to say. Just as Big Hand was about to give the signal to pull Thunder Sam up, a friend cut his bonds and thrust a revolver into his hand. He jerked the noose from his neck himself, leaped back, covered his astonished foes for a second, then went off like a deer. All this was done ina Need I say that Alf and his friends raved? I never wit- during the brief interval of time that had | nessed. such a scene at Redeye; the men acted
Page 24
24 Arizona Alf, the Miner. like demons. Of course they followed Thunder Sam, but nobody knows this country better than he does. He got away, but sent back words of defiance and a shout of victory. Alf will hunt him down; he swore to do it under the tree on which Thunder Sam was to have been hanged.” Little Snap Shot did not speak for a moment. ‘*T believe I owe that mountain rough a debt which I am not loth to pay,” he said. “I am rather glad that Thunder Sam got away, for “e will enable me to cancel my obligations to im. “Hyer’s another pard what’s jes’ as glad, Snap Shot,” said a rough voice. Blossom instantly raised her head, and the young horse-hunter wheeled with a light cry of surprise, “Oh, don’t lift thet shooter, my young holly- hock,” continued tte same voice. ‘' Ef I hevn’t ‘ot the dead drop on ye, I never hed it ona iving man!” Blossom’s cheeks paled, for the speaker was Thunder Sam himself. CHAPTER XV. THUNDER SAM’S DOOM. In the most startling manner had Blossom’s account of Thunder Sam’s escape from the roughs of Redeye been coufirmed. There seemed no escape from the revolver ed covered the young couple on the mountain trail. The bloodshot eyes that glared like a tiger’s behind the weapon, possessed no spark of mercy, ““T guess I’m worth a dozen hanged men, eh?” cried Thunder Sam. ‘“ Didn’t think I war in these parts jes’ at this time, I guess. Wal, I wouldn’t be ef Arizona Alf an’ his pards had had it all their own way last night, It’s jes’ as you’ve said, Blossom: the meanest wolf ov the pack is not without friends,” and the last words were supplemented with a wild laugh, “I don’t see anything ov the white hoss you forced from me the last time we met,” continued the mountain desperado, addressing Snap Shot. “Did some chap turn the tables, an’ relieve you ov the critter? Things ar’ liable to happen thet way in Arizony!_ Do you know, my young rose- bud, thet when I go back to Redeye Ili ride that animile?” “You’d never ride him if you grant me fair play, in this affair of ours,” said Snap Shot, mly. ‘* A chance fer yer life, hey?” “Tf you call fair play-a chance, yes.” “Thet’s what Arizona Alf said he war goin’ to give me last night, but when Big Hand hed tied our legs together, the old liar backed out, an’ turned me over to the rope. Now you want me to give you fair play, which means the dead ero on Thunder Sam. What do you say, gir miosspin’s eyes flashed and her cheeks col- ored, “He asks for what you never gave any one!” she cried. ‘‘He appeals to one who never granted fair play toan enemy. You shot Ari- zoua Alf down in cold blood, and the faijure to kill is no fault of yours, Touch the trigger you hold at your command and a new avenger will step upon your trail.” *Thet means you, I suppose,” sneered the mountain rough. ‘Shoot and see!” ‘Thet’s jes’ what I'll do, my daisy.” Thunder Sam took a step forward, atid Little Snap Shot read his doom in the desperado’s eyes. All at once Blossom struck her horse savagely with one of her spurs, and a lunge carried the animal in front of the boy horse-trailer, where the girl instantly drew rein. Thunder Sam greeted this sudden movement with an oath of rage. The horse was between the boy and his revolver! ‘‘ By Heaven! et thet’s yer tactics, you'll hey to put up with the consequences. I’m worse than a thousand catamounts when I’m riled, an’ riled I am jes’ now! Uncover thet boy!” Blossom’s look was the defiant response; she need not to have said: ‘For you! Never!” “The youngster’s a coward, then.” ‘That's a lie.” Out from behind the horse sprung Snap Shot, as the last word was uttered. “T am here, Thunder Sam! May the best pistol win!” The next instant the sharp report of a revol- ver awoke the morning echoes of the hills, for wees than a flash the boy had covered and red at his antagonist. Thunder Sam reeled away; but did not drop his weapon. “Tm hard hit; but what on thet? I’m a thousand catamounts when I’m r’iled!” Though struck and hurled back by the snap- shot, the burly desperado recovered in a re- markably brief space of time, He came forward with his battle-cry rising on the air: Little Snap Shot saw his danger; but flinched not, Up went Thunder Sam’s revolver, with a bronzed finger at the trigger. The young horse-hunter fired again, This time the man who struck the ground did not rise. “You shot in time,” said the girl, looking into Little Snap Shot’s eyes. ‘He deserves death.” ee r know that; but it is not for me to take his (35 Thunder Sam heard these words, but he sent no looks of thankfulness toward the boy; on the contrary, he said: “Do as you please, hoss-hunter. It’s none ov yer bizness what I’d do ef I stood in yer boots.” E Snap Shot did not reply, ‘J will leave him where he is,” he said in low tones to Blossom. ‘I am ready to quit this spot; are you?” “‘T am eager to go, but whither?” ** Name our destination.” The old miner’s protegee sent aswift glance down the trail toward Redeye. “ Why not back to camp?” queried the boy, “No, no! not just now,” was the response. “T dare not ask you to enter Redeye at this sure
Page 25
Arizona Alf, the Miner, 26 A a ea ay juncture. You want to recover your horse above all things!” ‘* Yes,” eagerly. ‘*T thought so,” smiled the girl. ‘“ We will follow this trail a piece. Mount and let mo walk, Isee that you have nob recovered from the proof of Arizona Alt’s jealousy.” Blossom slipped to the ground while she spoke,and the horse stood riderless beside the boy. He would have declined the proffered saddle if the girl’s glance had not told him that a de- clination would not have been listened to, The excitement of the last few hours had kept him up, now he feit himself growing weak. “T-accept the saddle upon one condition,” he said. “Name it.” “It is that you will receive it back when I offer it.” Blossom smiled. ‘“Mount. [accept the proposition.” In another moment the young horse-hunter was firmly seated on horseback once more, If he had glanced over his shoulder he would have seen a movement on the part of the man who had just fallen before the flash of his revol- ver. “ Thar go two fools—two infernal tenderfeet!” almost laughed Thunder Sam, as his wild eyes followed the young couplemoving away. “ He'll never ferget the day he bad this pard at his mercy an’ spared his life. Tl set up a cold deck on the hoss-trailer yet. Ob, I’m a thousand wild- cats when I’m riled!” Little Snap Shot and his fair companion had scarcely been hidden around a bend in the moun- tain-trail when Thunder Sam, pistol in hand, once more crawled toward the cave lately occu- pied by the wounded Red Flash. ‘‘ Hyer I kin recuperate!” he ejaculated, when he found himself beyond the threshold. ‘* Won't I keep my word yet? Won't I ride the white hoss inter Redeye, an’ pay ’em all back fer the pic- nic they treated me to last night? Won't I come out on top arter all, jis’as I’ve always done afore? I’ve been shot worse ner this. I’m a thousand—” aoe ae He did not get to finish his favorite boast. A wild ery like an Indian whoop startled him; be turned back to the opening and lis- tened, “The infernal red skunks are hyer!” he grated, shrinking away. ‘* I’m not quite so sure about ridin’ thet white hoss into Redeye now as 1 war a minute er two ago; but I’ve strength enough to treat the red vyarmints to a deadly surprise.” In the shadow of the cavern walls he crouched and waited. 3 : Suddenly a number of horses were reined in in front of the opening, and a dozen painted warriors slid eagerly to the ground. ‘The Apache braves have come back to Red Flash!” said the leader of the red-skins, “ Thet’s a double-jointed lie! You red snakes hev come hyer to die!” The opening at that moment seemed to swarm with Indians. . A human figure blocked their way, and the following instant Thunder Sam was emptying his revolver into their faces, ‘Take what I’m givin’ ye in payment of old grudges! Great Cwsar! J’d like ter people sperit-land with yer hull tribe!” The savages, taken by surprise, drew back for a moment, then, with terrible yells, they rushed forward and carried the cave by storm! CHAPTER XVI. CARRIED OFF, REDEYE once more enjoyed quiet—that is, the Apaches remained away, and Spanish Jack did not return to repeat the performance which had added new foes to his list, Blossom again occupied the cabin belonging to Arizona Alf, and several days had followed the scenes detailed in the foregoing chapter. “She knows whar thet young hoss-hunter is, but T’l not bother her to find out,” said Arizona Alf more than once to himself, ‘‘I guess thar’s no use in kickin’ ag’in’ fate, but I feel like keepin’ my oath in spite ov the girl. Snap Shot hezn’t gone back to the old ranch, because he hezn’t rekivered the white hoss. He’s huntin’? the animile somewhar, an’ I might as well hunt suthin’ too.” Thereupon Arizona Alf threw a saddle on a horse on which he could depend, and galloped from Redeye as the snn was throwing his last beams upon the roofs of the shanties that con- stituted the camp. Blossom saw him depart, and smiled as she watched him disappear, ““T don’t care if they do meet now,” she said to herself. ‘‘There was a time when Alf would have treated Snap Shot to a bullet on sight—he did it once—but now a meeting would not result thus. Let him but find his white horse and all my fears will end, for he will bid adieu to this wild country and go back to the old: ranch.” A goodly distance from Redeye, Arizona Alf was giving his steed the spur, and with his rifle resting on the pommel] of his saddle, was once more among the mountains, down whose trails he was riding swiftly. He drew rein so suddenly that his steed was almost thrown back upon his baunches, and the old man shaded his eyes with his hand, for he was looking straight toward the red disk of the declining sun. “T guess I’ve lost him, whoever he war,” he said aloud, in no pleasant tories. ‘‘ But never mind. Ef it war Tbunder Sam, he’ll turn up some day when I’m around, an’ then I'll settle with him.” Thunder Sam? No! that worthy would no more cross Arizona Alf’s path nor hunt the white horse again. In the mountain cave which the Apaches took with a yell and a rush, Thunder Sam lay stiff at the end of his last trail. - The object which Arizona Alf had suddenly seen and so suddenly lost sight of was a man whom he hated with the same intensity that characterized his hatred of Thunder Sam, If the old miner could have pierced certain hills and looked beyond, he would have seen this person, whose horse’s head was turned toward Redeye. 7 3 : The reader will recognize him when we say that be wore a huge sombrero and gold-laced
Page 26
26 jacket, and that his dark hair fell over a pair of shapely shoulders. ith bis handsome, yellowish face turned to- ward the setting sun, Spanish Jack allowed his horse to carry him toward the camp just aban- doned by the old miner. ‘This dash is for the mountain daisy,” he said to himself. ‘‘ I know where she fs, and I'm going to possess her, After that the Mongollon moun- tains will not see Spanish Jack in a long time— perhaps nevermore. Not that I’m tired of a stampeder’s life—no, no! but with a horse like this and a wife like Blossom, who wouldn’t be willing to retire from the sport? Carajo! Vl break a thousand hearts with envy when I go back to Santa Fe!” and the Tiger of Arizona laughed at the prospect he deemed ahead, A brisk gallop soon brought him to the out- skirts of the camp. The sun had disappeared and night once more held sway over the place where so many start- ling events had taken place within the last few ays. ‘Atter his last desperate adventure in Redeye, Spanish Jack was deliberately re-entering the place, this time for a purpose on which he had set his heart, Not content with the white horse, he wanted the one other beautiful prize the country con- peers late fair occupant of the Mountain ode, With Blossom and White Rocket both, he could fill the New Mexicans with euvy; he could afford to give up the life that had made him an Arizona Tiger. Who knew but that Spanish Jack might not develop into a peaceful, if not an honored citi- zen of the far Southwest? He was inclined to believe that the denizens of Redeye, who had been so fortunate as to escaps his deadly revolvers on the occasion of his last visit there, were Off on a hunt of some kind, for his keen eyes could not catch sight of a single figure as he passed the first cabins, Still, he had prepared for a desperate emer- gency, for one of his hands gripped a cocked re- volver while the other guided the white horse on. Suddenly he stopped in front of a cabin, the door of which was shut. “Tm at the queen’s palace,” he muttered, with a smile, and leaning toward the door, he said in tones well disguised, and not unlike Ari- zona Alf’s: “‘Hollo in thar, Blossom! I'd like ter see ye fer a minute.” Almost instantly the door flew open, and the figure of the beauty of Redeye appeared on the threshold, “Here lam. Youare back— My God!” Spanish Jack’s hand shot toward the girl as she shrunk back with tho startling exclamation on her lips. “‘ Fooled you, did I? Carajo! you're prettier than the stars. Notso fast, my daisy!” The Tiger’s arm was longer than Blossom thought it was, aud ere she could utter a cry, or draw a weapon if she had one handy, the bronzed hand clutched her arm, and she was lifted up by main strength. “Not a word!” hissed Spanish Jack, ‘I only Arizona Alf, the Miner. want a queen for the biggest and richest ranch on the Rio Grande, and who more fit to reign there than you? Speak not, if you love life, my beauty. Men don’t lie when they call me Tiger Jack.” Blossom knew that resistance would avail her nothing, and she was lifted to the back of the horse, which she instantly recognized. “Now for Spanish Jack’s kingdom! If it wasn’t for certain reasons, Blossom, I'd rouse the natives as we leave Redeye.” He did not turn his horse’s head; but kept straight on. *“ Who do you think I saw at sundown in the mountains?” he said suddenly, addressing his captive. he girl held her breath as she regarded him. “Tt was Alf,” continued the Arizonian Tiger. “ The old feller must be off ona hunt of some kind. Ah! you were thinking I saw the young catamount who'd like to ride this horse again! I hear he has recovered from the wound Alf gave him for fetching you back to Redeye,” Blossom started, and her look said plainly, “Who told you?” ‘* He'd better go home, He will remain here till he gets into trouble. Caramba! if I meet him, he’ll not have a ranch to go back to.” How the girl’s eyes flashed as the Tiger spoke these threatful words, ‘Beware! if he encounters you, you may never stampede another herd!” she said. Spanish Jack laughed derisively, and touched his horse with the spur, which sent the animal forward like an Indian shaft. “Tt’s farewell to Redeye, Queen Blossom,” he laughed—“ farewell to Arizona Alf and the horse-huuter also.” The girl did not reply, Already the camp had disappeared, and they were ascending to the trails many feet above the level where it stood. Was she to be queen on the ranch where Spanish Jack’s word was law? ‘* Never!” she said, when she had asked her- self this question. ‘‘ [may go to New Mexico, but the Tiger’s victory shall never be complete.” Scarcely had Blossom finished when a stern command to halt rung down the mountain ss. ; te Arizonian Tiger replied with a defiant augh, White Rocket seemed to leave the ground as the spurs were driven home. “Die, then!” cried the man who had uttered the command. There was an eager finger at the trigger of the repeating-rifle aimed at the flying des- perado. But the Weapon was suddenly dashed aside and Tiger Jack’s foe wheeled upon the person who had interfered. “You here? you mean young coyote? You've saved that devil’s life—” “ Aud Blossom’s too, thank Heaven!” “oe No.” ‘“My horse carried a double burden. You saw no one but Spanish Jack.” The speaker turned away and threw himself upon the back of a horse a few feet from the spot,
Page 27
Arizona Alf, the Miner. 27 The next moment he ™. flying like the wind All at once Blossom uttered a ery which no in the wake of Spanish Jack, “Ef be saves Blossom I'll fergive ’em, hang me ef I don’t!” ejaculated the astonished man left, behind. It was Arizona Alf. CHAPTER XVII. THE HORSE-HUNTER WINS, “rat was Arizona Alf,” said Spanish Jack to his beautiful prisoner as the white horse car- ried them down the trail, ‘I did not expect to meet the old fellow here, but carajo ! he’s Jiable to turn up anywhere now. Why didn’t he shoot? Ab! he might have seen you, Queen Blossom, and was afraid to trust his aim, For- ward! White Rocket; you carry a rider braver and prettier than the boy who claims you!” The steed kept on at a gait that seemed dan- gerous on that starlit trail, and mile after mile was left behind. “Where's our huvter now?” exclaimed Span- ish Jack as he let the horse crop the succulent grass of a plain that lay at the foot of the wood- ed slopes from among which he had just emerged. Blossom did not reply. Daylight had broken once more, and White Rocket had carried his two riders far from the spot where Arizona Alf had attempted to check his speed. There was triumph in the Tiger's dark eyes —triumph that gained in intensity whenever he regarded the beautiful girl whose waist was en- circled by one of his strong arms. Behind the pair was the mountain range, ahead a stretch of lovely country that lost itself against some dim mountains far away. At once White Rocket raised his fox-like ears as though a sound had reached them. ‘© W hat do you hear, horse?” said Spanish Jack sweeping the landscape with his eye, and noting every object that crossed his vision. Blossom, too, looked in every direction, “Do you see yon moving speck?” sudden- ly asked the Tiger, pointing toward the mcun- tains they had left behind. ‘‘Tbat is Arizona Alf. Hebasnot given upthetrail. Santissima ! I knew he'd stick toit as long as possible. Go back, old map. I don’t want your life.” And the yellow stampeder waved his hand at the ap- proaching object. To Blossom’s surprise Sparish Jack turned the white steed’s head toward the advancing horse- man. “T am going to warn him that he must not trai] Spanish Jack,” said the Tiger, in response to his captive’s inquisitive look. ‘‘ He saved our life, I am told, therefore I don’t want his; ut he can follow me too far!” Blossom watched the horseman with breathless interest. ? He came forward at a rapid gait which each moment brought him into plainer view. If the night had baffled him, he had struck the trail after all. - - Spanish Jack never took his eyes from his pursuer. His fingers tightly clutched a revol- ver as he seemed to watch every movement of the horse that came eagerly on. 4 will of hers could suppress. The pursuer was not Arizona Alf, but Little Snap Shot! At thesame time Spanish Jack made a like discovery. ““Carajo! it is the boy!” he grated madly. “*T shall not warn him, but he shall tumble from his horse when I get the drop on his head.” ; Not more than half a mile now separated the ‘oes. Little Snap Shot saw that he had been recog- nized, but that did not abate his speed. ‘Now or never!” he said, ‘I recover Blos- som and White Rocket to-day or never see the old ranch again! We part to-day forever, Spanish Jack! Arizona loses one or both of us where her grass grows longest.” And Little Snap Shot sent up a thrilling battle-cry which told how eager he was to engage his enemy. With teeth firm set and eyes burning with rage, Spanish Jack awaited the onset. The arched neck of the horse-hunter’s speed shielded his body from the stampeder’s aim, and d ‘ shpecelgg him untila very few rods separated them. ““T have him now, Blossom!” suddenly ex- claimed the Tiger. ‘‘ Here ends the double trail of the herder boy!” Tbe eyes of the girl were as quick as Spanish Jack’s aim, The next mument there was a loud report, but the bullet intended for Snap Shot’s head went whizzing toward the skies, Blossom’s swift hand having turned the shot aside. “Curse you, girl!” grated the stampeder. “Now more than ever you shall.be queen of the ranch on the Rio Grande! J ride White Rocket; you forget that!” And wheeling the white steed, he drove the crimson spurs deep into the bleeding flanks, and went over the grass like the wind. The girl’s eyes fairly blazed with triumph, as they regarded the man flying from the enemy pushing steadily in pursuit. “ Oh, feast your eyeson me if you want to, my Mongollon bird!” cried Spanish Jack, with a tiger’s fierceness. ‘‘ Weare on the broad trail that ends by the waters of the Rio Grande. Who has the better horse? We are leaving the boy far behind.” Blossom glanced over her shoulder, and saw, to her disappointment, that White Rocket was lengthening the distance between them and his young master. The short rest had refreshed him. Suddenly there came down the wind a shrill whistle. _ White Rocket stopped instantly, straightened his creamy ears, ant planted his forefeet firmly in the ground. A curse in Spanish fell from the Tiger’s lips. He buried the spurs in the white steed’s reek- ing sides. The animal winced, but did not move. “He thinks to beat me thus, does he?” grated Spanish Jack, seeing that White Rocket was determined to obey Snap Shot’s call. ‘ Now shall he feel the vengeance of the Tiger of Ari- zona!
Page 28
Arizona Alf; the Miner. Quick as a flash the bronzed stampeder wheeled upon his foe, who was approaching with a rush that seemed resistless. Up went his revolver, but two hands caught his arm, ‘You save him, girl? Never!” he roared, He attempted to shake the fair shackles off, butin vain, Blossom clung like death to the arm that threatened the charging boy, Spanish Jack ground his teeth and summoned all his rage and strength to aid him, His left hand darted at the girl’s throat; his fingers seemed to bury themselves beneath the fair skin, and with another mad oath he tore her loose, ‘“Now, my boy demon!” he growled, “Tl show you the vengeance of Spanish Jack.” That instant the eager boy came charging alongside, Triumph and revenge lit up bis eyes, He stood erect in his stirrup with his revolver thrust forward. ; “At last for Blossom and White Rocket!” pealed from his throat. Spanish Jack’s revolyer met Snap Shot's half- way, but there was but one report, Asahuman figure reeled from the flash the victor reined in his plunging steed, but the foamy horse did not come toa halt for a mo- ment, Little Snap Shot glanced backward. ‘Tt was a Jong, wild trail, but I am at the end at last,” he said, aloud as he turned his horse’s head toward the distant mountains, Well might the horse-hunter rejoice. Two figures lay on the grass where White Rocket stood, but only one was dead. Spanish Jack’s sombrero lay beside his bullet- bored face, and the sunlight gleamed among the embroidering of his handsome jacket. Little Snap Shot sent up a shout of victory as his hand closed on the bridle of the best horse in Arizona, The long hunt had ended at last, and White Rocket was his ouce more, Blossom soon recovered from the terrible choking administered by Spanish Jack, and smiled admiringly as the boy helped her upon the white steed’s back. “Now for the old man back among the mountains!” ejaculated Snap Shot. This time the old miner’s protegee did not remonstrate; she did not fear the reception the youth would meet with at Arizona Alf’s hands, ““T war a jealous old fool!” said a certain in- dividual a few hours later, while he held Snap Shot’s hand between his tawny palms. ‘I might hev knowed thet Blossom war bound to find a younger pard than Arizona Alf. When I shot you in Redeye an’ saw thet you war goin’ to git over it, [ said the jig war up an’ soit war. The girl is yours, boy, ef you think she’s worth tyin’ to. Drat my picter, ef I wouldn’t hunt a hoss Jike you hev, old as I am, to find a prize like Blossom whar I found the critter.” A blush stole over Blossom’s face, and with a glance at Little Snap Shot, she smilingly ayert- ed her eyes, The trio went back to Redeye, and from thence, after a few days, pushed southward. The long journey ended—need we say it?—on | a beautiful and well-stocked ranch in Southern Arizona, where White Rocket gave vent to his joy in many a whinny when he found himself in the old pastures again. Vows are not always kept. Thunder Sam did not get to ride White Rocket into Redeye, nor did Spanish Jack win, as he swore he would, the beauty of the Moun- tain Lodge. 3 Little Snap Shot kept his oath in the main, for he recovered the snowy steed which to him was now worth his weight in gold, for at the end of his trail he found the fairest and bravest bride in the Southwest, or, as Arizona Alf is still won’t to say, “‘ The Jim-dandiest little gal in Arizony!” THE END. BEADLE AND ADAMS’ STANDARD DIME PUBLICATIONS Speakers. The Dime Speakers embrace twenty-five volumes viz.: 1, American Speaker, 15. Komikal Speaker. 2. National Speaker. 16, Youth's Speaker. 8. Patriotic Speaker. 17. Eloquent Speaker. 4. Comic Speaker. 18. Hail Columbia Speak- 5. Elocutionist. er. < 6. Humorous Speaker. | 19. Serio-Comie Speaker, 7. Standard Speaker, 20. Select Speaker. 8. Stump Speaker. 21. Funny Speaker. 9. Juvenile Speaker. 22, Jolly Speaker, 10. Spread-Eagle Speaker | 23, Dialect Speaker, 11. Dime Debater. 24. Recitations and Read- 12. Exhibition Speaker. ings. 13. School Speaker. 5. Burlesque Speaker 14. Ludicrous Speaker. These books are replete with choice pieces for the School-room, the Exhibition, for Homes, ete. 7% to 100 Declamations and Recitations in each book, Dialogues. The Dime Dialogues, each volume 100 pages, em- brace thirty-six books, viz.: Dialogues No. One. Dialogues No. Nineteen. Dialogues No. Two. Dialogues No, Twenty. Dialogues No. Three. |Dialogues No, Twenty-one. Dialogues No. Four. Dialogues No, Twenty-two, Dialogues No. Five. Dialogues No, Twenty-three, Dialogues No. Six. Dialogues No. Twenty-four, Dialogues No. Seven. ‘Dialogues No Twenty-five, Dialogues No. Hight. ‘Dialogues No, Twenty-six. Dialogues No. Nine. Dialozues No. Twenty-seven. Dialogues No, Ten. Dialogues No. Twenty-eight. Dialogues No. Eleven. Dialogues No. Twenty-nine, Dialogues No. Twelve. Dialogues No, Thirty. . Dialogues No. Thirteen, Dialogues No. Thirty-one, Dialogues No. Fourteen. Dialogues No. Thirty-two, Dialogues No, Fifteen, Dialogues No. Thirty-three, Dialogues No. Sixteen, Dialogues No. Thirty-four, Dialogues No.Seventeen Dialogues No, Thirty-five, Dialogues No. Kighteen. Dialogues No. Thirty-six, 15 to 25 Dialogues and Dramas in each book, For sale by all newsdealers, or sent, post-paid, on receipt of price—ten cents, BEADLE AND ADAMS, Pustisuers, 98 William Street, New York, j
Page 29
BEADLE’S POCKET LIBRarRy: Published Every Wednesday. Hach Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents. 1 Deadwood Dick, -ae Prince of the Road. By E. L. Wheeler. : 2 Kansas King; or, The Red Right Hand, By Buffalo Bill. 8 The Flying Yankee; or, The Ocean Outcast. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 5: 4 The Double Daggers; or, Deadwood Dick’s De- fiance. By Edward L. Wheeler. 5 The Two Detectives; or, The Fortunes of a Bowery Girl. By Albert W. Aiken. 6 The Prairie Pilot; or, The Phantom Spy. By Buffalo Bill. % The Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures. By Edward L. Wheeler. 8 Antelope Abe, the’Boy Guide, Oll Coomes. 9 Ned Wylde, the Boy Scout. By Texas Jack.” 10 Buffalo Ben, Prince of the Pi Wheeler. 11 Ralph Roy, the Boy Buccaneer. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 12 Nick o’ the Night; or, The Boy Spy of 76. By T, C. Harbaugh, 18 Yellowstone Jack; or, The Trappers of tle En- chanted Ground. By Joseph E. Ba‘lger, Jr. 14 Wild Ivan, the Boy Clauce Duval. By E. Li Wheeler. 15 Diamond Dirk; or, The Mystery of the Yellow- stone. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 16 Keen-Knife, Prince of the Prairies. By Ol Coomes, 17 Oregon Sol, Nick Whiffles's Boy Spy. By J..F. 0. Adams. 2 18 Death-Face, the Detective. By E. L. Wheeler. 19 Lasso Jack, the Young Mustanger. By Oll Coomes. 20 Roaring Ralph Rockwood, the Reckless Ranger. By Harry St. George. 21 The Boy Clown; or, The Queen of the Arena. By Frank §S. Finn. 22 The Phantom Miner; or, Deadwood Dick’s Bo- nanza, By Edward L. Wheeler. 23 The Sea-Cat; or, The Witch of Darien. By Capt. Frederick Whittaker. 24 The Dumb Spy. By Oll Coomes. 2% Rattling Rube; or, The Night Hawks of Ken- tucky. By Harry St. Li 26 Old Avalanche, the Great Annibilator; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand. By EB, L. Wheeler. 27 Glass-Eye, the Great Shot of the West. By J. F. C, Adams. 28 The Boy Captain; or, The Pirate’s Daughter. By Roger Starbneck. 29 Dick Darling, the Pony Express Rider. By Capt. F. Whittaker, 80 Rob Woolf, the Border Ruffian. By Edward L. Wheeler, 81 Nightingale Nat; or, The Forest Captains. By T. C. Harbaugh, SI 82 Black John, the Road-Agent; or, The Outlaws’ | Retreat. By Joseph FE. Badger, Jr, 83 Omaha Oll, the Masked Terror; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger. By E. L. Wheeler. 34 Burt Bunker, the Trapper. By Geo. E. Lasalle. 35 The Boy Rifles; or, The Underground Camp. By A. C. Irons. 86 The White Buffalo. By George B, Lasalle. 87 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix; or, Through to Death. By Edward L. Wheeler. 88 Ned Hazel, the Boy Trapper. By Captain J. F. ©. Adams. 39 aeatly Eye, the Unknown Scout. By Buffalo ill, 40 Nick Whiffles’s Pet; or, In the Valley of Death, By Capt. J. F. GC. Adams. 41 Devdwood Dick’s E: Bar. By Edward L. Wheeler. les; or, The Pards of Flood | 42 The Border King; or, The Secret Foe. By Ol Coomes. 43 Old Hickory; or, Pandy Ellis’s Scalp. By Harry St. George. 44 The White Indian; or, The Scouts of the Yellow- stone. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams. By Ed- 45 Buckhorn Bill; or, the Red Rifle Team. ward L. Wheeler. 46 The Shadow Ship; or, The Rival Lieutenants. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 47 The Red Brotherhood; or, The Twelve Avengers. By W. J, Hamilton. Dandy Jack; or, The Outlaw of the Oregon Trail, By T. C. Harbaugh, 9 Hurricane Bill; or, Mustang Sam and His Pard. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. Single Hand; or, A Life for a-Life. By W. J. Hamilton. Patent-leather Joe; or, Old Rattlesnake the Charmer, By Philip 8. Warne. The Border Robin Hood: or, The Prairie Rover. By Buffalo Bill. 53 Gold Rifle, the Sharpshooter. By Edward L, Wheeler. Old Zip’s Cabin; or, A Greenhorn in the Woods. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams. 5 Delaware Dick, the Young Ranger Spy. By Ol Coomes. Mad Tom Western, the Texan Ranger. J. Hamilton. By W. 57 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity Jane. By _ Edward L, Wheeler. 58 Hawkeye Harry, the Young Trapper. By Oll Coomes. The Boy Duelist; or, The Cruise of the Sea Wolf. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, Abe Colt, the Crow-Killer. By Albert W. Aiken. Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. By Edward L. Wheeler. 62 Will Somers, the Boy Detective. By Charles Morris. 63 Sol Ginger, the Giant Trapper. By Albert W. Aiken. 64 Rosebud Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight of the Gulch. By Edward L. Wheeler. 65 Lightning Joe, the Terror of the Prairie, By Capt. J. F. C. Adams, 66 7 Bigretops the Wood-Hawk. By T. 0. Har- augh. 67 Rollo, the Boy Ranger. By Oll Coomes. 68 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand, By Edward L. Wheeler, 69 Detective Dick; or, The Heroin Rags, By Chas, Morris. 70 Sure Shot Seth, the Boy Rifleman. By Ol Coomes. : 71 Sharp Sam; or, Thé Adventures of a Friendless Boy. By J. Alexander Patten. 72 The Lion of the Sea; or, The Vailed Lady of San Tropez. By Albert W. Aiken. 73 Photograph Phil. the Boy Sleuth; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance. By E. L. Wheeler, 74 Picayune Pete; or, Nicodemus, the Dog Detec- tive. By Charles Morris. = 7% Island Jim; or, The Pet of the Family. By Bracebridge Hemyng (Jack Harkaway). 76 Watch-Eye, the Shadow. By EH. L. Wheeler. 77 Dick Dead-Kye, the Boy Smuggler. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. j 78 Deadwood Dick’s Device; or, The Sign of the Double Cross. By E. L. Wheeler. 79 The Black Mustanger; or, The Wild Horse Hun ters, By Captain Mayne Reid. 80 Old Frosty, the Guide. By T. C. Harbaugh. 81 The Sea Viper; or, The Midshipman’s Legacy, By Col, Prentiss Ingraham,
Page 30
‘ 82 Seth Jones; or, The Captives of the Frontier. By E. 8. Ellis. 83 Canada Chet, the Counterfeiter Chief. By E. L. Wheeler. 84 The Dumb Page; or, The Doge’s Daughter. By Captaid Frederick Whittaker. 85 The Boy Miners; or, The Enchanted Island. By Edward 8S. Ellis. 4 86 Jack Harkaway in New York. By Bracebridge Hemyng. 87 The Hussar Captain; or, The Hermit of Hell Gate. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 88 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A Strange Stroke for Liberty. By Edward L. Wheeler. 89 Bill Biddon, Sigh eal or, Life in the Northwest. By Edward 8. Ellis. 90 Tippy, the Texan; or, The Young Champion. By George Gleason. 91 Mustang Sam, the King of the Plains. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 92 The Ocean Bloodhound; or, the Red Pirates of the Caribbees. By Samuel W. Pearce. 93 Phil Hardy, the Boss Boy; or, The Mystery of the Stronghold. By Charles Morris. 94 Deadwood Dick as Detective. By BE. L. Wheeler. 95 Buck Buckram; or, Bess the Female Trapper. By Captain J. F. C. Adams. 96 Gilt-Edged Dick. By Edward L. Wheeler. 97 The Black Steed of the Prairies. By James L. Bowen, 98 The Sea Serpent; or, The Boy Robinson Crusoe. By Juan Lewis. 99 Bonanza Bill, the Man Tracker; or, the Secret Twelve. By E. L. Wheeler. 100 Nat Todd; or, The Fate of the Sioux Captive. By E. S. Ellis. 101 Daring age the Yourg Bear Killer; or, The Trail of the Border Wolf. By Harry St. George. 102 The Yellow Chief; or, The Half-Blood’s Ven- geance, By Capt. Mayne Reid. 108 Chip, the Girl Sport. ‘By Edward L. Wheeler. 104 The Black Schooner; or, Jib Junk, the Old Tar. By Roger Starbuck. 105 Handsome Harry, the Bootblack Detective. By Charles Morris. 106 Night-Hawk Kit; or, The Daughter of the Ranch. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr. 107 Jack Hoyle’s Lead; or, The Road to Fortune. By Edward L. Wheeler. 108 Rocky Mountain Kit, the White Mustanger. By T. C, Harbaugh, 109 The Branded Hand; or, The Man of Mystery. By Frank Dumont. 110 The Dread Rider; or, The Texan Duelist. By George W. Browne. 111 Boss Bob, the King of Bootblacks, By Edward L. Wheeler. 112 The Helpless Hand. By Capt. Mayne Reid. 113 Sear-Faced Saul, the Silent Hunter. By Ol Coomes. 114 Piney Paul, the Mountain Boy. By T. C. Har- baugh. 115 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gor- ‘on’s Gulch, By Edward L. Wh eler. 116 Jabez Coffin, pepper: or, Lost in the Polar Regions. By Capt. F, Whittaker. 117 Fancy Frank of Colorado; or, The Trappers Trust. By ‘ Buffalo Bill.”” 118 Will Wildfire, the Thoroughbred; or, The Win- ning Hand. By Chas. Morris. #19 Blonde Bill; or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base. By Edward L. Wheeler. 120 are Gid, the Boy Trapper. By T. C. Har- augh. 121 Harry Armstrong, the Captain of the Club. By Bracebridge Hemyng, (Jack Harkaway). 122 The Huuted Hunter; or, The Strange Horseman of the Prairie. By Edward §, Ellis 123 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent. By Edward L. 14 quae T, J Vigil udge Lynch, Jr.; or, The Boy Vigilante. By T. . Harbaugh, e BEADLE’S POCKET LIBRARY. - { 125 The Land Pirates; or, The League of Devil’s Island. By Capt. Mayne Reid.- 126 Blue Blazes; or, The Break o’ Day Boys of Rocky Bar. By Frank Dumont. 127 Tony Fox, the Ferret; or, Boss Bob’s Boss Job. By Edward L. Wheeler. 128 Will Wildfire’s Racer; or, Winning Against Odds. By Charles Morris. 129 Kagle Kit, the Boy Demon. ts Oll Coomes,. 130 Gold Trigger, the Sport; or, The Girl Avengers, By T. C. Harbaugh, 131 A-Game of Gold; or, Deadwood Dick's Big Strike. By Edward L. Wheeler. 132 Dainty Lance, the Boy Sport. ee ne 133 Wild-fire, the Boss of the Road. By Frank Du- mont. 134 ee! the Harbor Police Boy. By Chas. Morris. 185 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party. By Edward L. Wheeler. 136 Old Rube, the Hunter. By Capt. Hamil'on Holmes, 1387 Dandy Rock, the Man from Texas. By G, Waldo Browne. 138 Bob Rockett, the Boy Dodger. By Chas. Morris. 139 The Black Giant; or, Dainty Lance in Jeopardy. By Jos. E, Badger, Jr. 140 Captain Arizona, the King Pin of Road-Agents. By Philip 8. Warne. 141 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective. By E. L. Wheeler. 142 Little Texas, the Young Mustanger. By Ol] Coomes. 143 Deadly Dash; or, Fighting Fire with Fire. Dy Jos. &. Badger, Jr. 144 Little Grit, the Wild Rider. By Col. Prentiss In- graham. 145 The Tiger of Taos; or, Wild Kate, Dandy Rock's Angel. By Geo, Waldo Browne. 146 The Cattle King; or, Cortina’s Right Bower. Ty Frank Dumont. : 147 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, the Seamps of the Sierras. By Edward L. Wheeler. 148 Thunderbolt Tom; or, the Wolf-Herder of the Rockies, By Harry St. George. 149 Bob Rockett, the Bank Runner. Morris. 150 The Mad Miner; or, Dandy Rock’s Doom. By G. Waldo Browne. 151 The Sea Trailer; or, A Vow Well Kept. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 152 Dandy Darke; or, The Tigers of High Pine. Fy W. H. Eyster. 153 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo. By E. L. Wheeler. 4 The Boy Trailers; or, Dainty Lance on the War- Path. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. A 155 Gold Plume, the Boy Bandit, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 4 156 Will Wildfire in the Woods. By C. Morris. 157 Ned Temple, the Lordér Boy. By T. C. Har- By Joseph F. By Charles 1 uo baugh. 158 Desswood Dick’s Doom: or, Calamity Jane's Last Adventure. By BE. L. Wheeler. 159 Patent-Leather Joe’s Def-at; or, The Lady Road-Agent. By Philip 8. Warne. " 160 Buffalo Billy, the Eoy Bullwhacker; or, The Doomed Thirteen, By Col. P. Ingraham, 161 Bob Rockett, the Cracksman. By C. Morris. 162 Little Hurricane, the Boy Captain. By Oll Coomes. < 163 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, the Rivals of the Road. By E. L. Wheeler. 164 Tornado Tom; or. Injun Jack from Red Core,_ By T. C. Harbaugh. Fa 165 Buffalo Bill's Bet; or, The Gambler Guide. By Col. P. Ingraham. . = 166 Will Wildfire ee a bsigog or, “A Trump Card.” By Charles Morris. 167 Dandy Rock’s Pledge; or, Hunted to Death. by George W, Browne. *
Page 31
BEADLE’S POCKET LIBRARY. 168 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hills Jezebel. By Edward L. Wheeler. 169 The Boy Champion. By Edward Willett. 170 Bob Rockett's Fight for Life; or, Shadowed in New York. By Charles Morris. 171 Frank Morton, the Boy Hercules. Coomes, 172 The Yankee Ranger; or, Dusky Darrell. By Edwin Emerson, i73 Dick Dingle, Scout; or, The Frontier Angel. By E.1ward §, Ellis. 174 Dandy Rock’s Scheme; or, The Golden Hand. By G. W. Browne. 1%5 The Arab Detective; or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp By Edward L. Wheeler. 176 Will Wildfire’s Pluck; or, The Hidden Hand. By Charles Morris. 177 The Boy Commander; or, The Maid of Perth, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 178 The Maniac Hunter; or, The Mysteries of Night Island. By Burton Saxe. 179 Dainty Lance; or, The Mystic Marksman. By J.E. Badger, 180 The Boy Gold-Hunter; or, Navajo Nick’s Scout. By T. C. Harbaugh, 181 The Scapegrace Son. By Charles Morris. 182 The Dark-Skinned Seovt; or. The Freebooters of the Mississippi. By Lieut. Col. Hazeltine. 183 Jabez Dart, Detective; or, The Hermit Trapper. By Oil Coomes. 184 a a the Boy Spy. By Edward Wil- lett. By Oll 185 Bison Bill, the Overland Prince. tiss Ingraham. 186 Dainty Lance and His Pard. By Joseph BE. Badger, Jr. 187 The Trapped Tiger King; or, Dark Paul’s Plot, By Charles Morris. 188 The Ventriloquist Detective. A Romance of Rogues. By Edward L. Wheeler. 189 Old Rocky’s Boys; or, Bonito, the Young Mus- tang-Breaker. By Maj, Sam. S. Hall. 190 Sim Simpkins, Scout; or, The Faithful Mountain Mastiff. By James L, Bowen. 191 Dandy Rock’s Rival; or, The Mysterious Wolf Rider. By Geo. Waldo Browne. 192 Hickory Harry; or, Roaring Ralph, the Ventrilo- quist. By Harry St. George. 193 Detective Josh Grim; or, The Young Gladiator's Game. By Edward L. Wheeler. 494 Prospéct Pete, the Boy Miner. By Oll Coomes. 195 The Tenderfoot Trailer; or, Plucky Phil, of the Mountain. By T. C. Harbaugh. 196 The Dandy Detective; or, The Abducted Boy Mystery, By Charles Morris. 197 Roy, the Young Cattle King; or, The Texan Sport Unmasked, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham, 198 Ebony Dan’s Mask; or, The Rival Leagues of the Mines. By Frank Dument. 199 Dictionary Nat, Detective; or, Bill Bravo, the car Tamer, By T, O, Harbaugh. By Col. Pren- | 200 The Twin Horsemen; or, The Brothers of the Plumed Lance. By Capt. Frederick Whittaker. 201 Dandy Darke’s Pards; or, The Hawks of High Pine. By Wm. R. Eyster. 202 Tom, the Texan Tiger; or, Old Luke's Luck. By Oll Coomes, 203 Sam, the Office Boy; or, The Tables Turned, By Charles Morris. 204 The Young Cowboy; or, The Girl Trailer’s Tri- umph, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 205 The Frontier Detective; or, Sierra Sam’s Scheme. By E. L. Wheeler. 206 White Lightning; cr, the Boy Ally. By T. C. Harbaugh. 207 Kentuck Talbot’s Band; or, The Red Lasso. By Captain Mark Wilton. 208 Trapper Tom’s Castle Mystery; or, Dashing Dick’s Disguise. By Oll Coomes, 209 The Messenger-Boy Detective; or, The Tables Turned, By Charles Morris. 210 The Hunchback of the Mines: or, Reckless Rulph, the Road-Agent. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. 211 Little Giant and His Band; or Despard, the Duelist. By P. S. Warne. 212 The Jimtown Sport; or, Gypsy Jack in Colorado. By E. L. Wheeler. 213 The Pirate’s Prize; or, The Mysterious Yankee Schooner. By C. Dunning Clark. 214 Dandy Dave, of Shasta; or, The ’Frisco Flash o’ Lightning. By T. C. Harbaugh. 215 Daring Dan, the Ranger; or, The Denver Detec- tive. By Oll Coomes, 216 The Cowboy Captain; or, Ranger Ralph’s Ruin. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 217 Bald Head of the Rockies; or, The Ang’l of the Range. By Major Sam 8S. Hall. 218 The Miner Sport; or, Sugar-Coated Sam’s Claim, By Edward L. Wheeler. 219 Buck, the Detective; or, Paul, the Boy Pard. By Albert W. Aiken. 220 Crack-Shot Frank; or, Bill Bounce, the Moun- tain Bravo. By Charles Morris. 221 Merle the Middy: or, A Waif of the Waves. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 222 Rosebud Ben’s Boys; or, The Young Prairie Rangers, By Oll Coomes. 223 Gold Conrad’s Watech-Dogs; or, The Two Pards of Vulture Bar.. By T. C. Harbeugh. 224 Frisky Fe gus, the New York Boy. By G. L. Aiken. 225 Dick Drew, the Miner’s Son; or, Apollo Bill, the Road-Agent, By Edward L. Wheeler. 226 Dakota Dick in Chicago; or, Jack, the Old Tar. By Charles Morris. 227 Merle, the Boy Cruiser; or, Brandt, the Bue- caneer. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham. 228 The Preacher Detective; or, The Boy Ventrilo- quist. By Oll Coomes. 229 Old Hickory’s Grit. By John J. Marshall. 230 The Three Boy Sports; or, The Sword Hunters, By Captain Frederick Whittaker.
Page 32
BEADLE’S POCKET LIBRARY. By Edward L. 231 Sierra Sam, the Detective. Wheeler. 232 Merle Monte’s Treasure; or, Buccaneer Brandt's Threat. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 233 Rocky Rover Kit; or, Davy Crockett’s Crooked Trail. By Ensign C. D, Warren. 234 Baldy, the Miner Chief. By Capt. J. F. C, Adams, 235 Jack Stump’s Cruise; or, The Montpelier’s Muti- neers. By Roger Starbuck. 236 Sierra Sam’s Double; or, The Three Female De- tectives. By Ed. L. Wheeler. 237 Newsboy Ned, Detective; or, Two Philadelphia Gamins. By Charles Morris. 238 Merle Monte’s Sea-Scraper} or, Little Belt’s Droll Disguise. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 239 Ben’s Big Boom; or, The Boss Miner’s League. By Capt. Mark Wilton. 240 Sharp Shot Mike; or, Columbia Jim on the War- Path. By Oll Coomes. 241 Sierra Sam’s Sentence; or, Little Luck at Rough Ranch. By Edward L, Wheeler. 242 The Denver Detective; or, Dainty Dot at Gold Gulch. By T. C. Harbaugh, 243 Dutch San’s Dilemma; or, The Mysterious Mountain Monster. By Maj. L. W. Carson. 244 Merle Monte’s Disguise; or, The Capture of Brandt, the Buccaneer. By Col, Prentiss In- graham. 245 B ldy’s Boy Partner: or, Young Brainerd’s Steam Man. By Edward S. Ellis. 246 Detective Keen’s Apprentice; or, James Jumper the New York Gamin. By Charles Morris. U7 The Girl Sport; or, Jumbo Joe’s Disguise. By Edward L, Wheeler. 248 Giant George’s Pard; or, Arizona Jack, the Tenderfoot. By Buckskin Sam. 249 Ranch Rob’s Wild Ride; or, Old Winch The Rifle King. By T. C. Harbaugh. 250 Merle Monte’s Pardon; or, The Pirate Chief's Doom. By Col. Prentiss Ingrabam. 251 The Deaf Detective; or, Weasel, the Boy Tramp. By Edward Willett. 252 Denver Doll’s Device; or, The Detective Queen. By Edward L. Wheeler. 253 The Boy Tenderfoot; or, Roaring Ben Bundy of Colorado, By Capt. Mark Wilton. 254 Black Hills Ben; or, Dutch Jan on the War- Path. By Maj. Lewis W. Carson. 255 Jolly Jim, Detective; or, The Young Protege’s Victory. By Charles Morris. 256 Merle Monte’s Last Cruise; or, The Sea Robber at Bay. By Col. Pren:iss Ingraham, 257 The Boy Chief of Rocky Pass; or, The Young California Pards, By Maj. E. L. St. Vrain, 258 Denver Doll as Detective, By E. lL. Wheeler. 259 Little Foxeye, the Colorado Spy. By Ol Coomes, 2600 Skit, the Cabin Boy. By Edward Willett. 261 Blade, the Sport, or, the Giant of Clear Grit Camp, By T, C, Harbaugh, 262 Billy, the Boy Rover; or, Terror Tom of Texas, By Col. P. Ingraham. 263 Buster Bob’s Buoy; or, Lige, the Light-House Keeper. By Capt. J. F. C. Adams. 264 Denver Doll’s Partner; or, Big Buckskin the Sport, By E. L. Wheeler, 265 Billy, the Baggage Boy; or, The Young Railroad Detective. By Charles Morris. 266 Guy’s Boy Chum; or, The Forest Waif’s Mask. By Capt. Comstock. 267 Giant George’s Revenge; or, The Boys of ‘ Slip- up Mine.” By Buckskin Sam, J 268 The Dead Shot Dandy; or, The Rio Grande Marauders, By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 269 The Quartzville Boss; or, Daring David Darke, By Edward Willett. 270 Denver Doll’s Mine; or, Little Bill’s Big Loss, By E, L. Wheeler. 271 Ebony Jim’s Terror; or, Ranger Rainbolt’s Ruse, By Oll Coomes. 272 Kit, the Girl Detective; or, Dandy Dash in Cali- fornia. By T. C. Harbaugh. 273 The Girl Rider; or, Nimble Ned’s Surprise. Jos. E. Badger, Jr, 274 Dead Shot Dandy’s Double; or, Benito, the Boy Pard. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. 275 Fred, the Ocean Waif; or, The Old Sailor's Protege. By Charles Morris. By 276 Deadwood Dick Trapped; or, Roxey Ralph's Ruse. By Edward L, Wheeler. 277 The Idiot Boy Avenger; or, Captain Wild-Cat’s Big Game. By Albert W. Aiken, 278 Arizona Alf, the Miner; or, Little Snap Shot’s Lueck. By T. C. Harbaugh. Ready May 8. 279 Colorado Jack, the Tiger; or, The Ghost of the Trailer. By Frederick Dewey. Ready May 15. i 280 Dead Shot Dandy’s Last Deal; or, Keno Kit’s New Role. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. Ready May 22. 2981 Ned, the Boy Pilot; or, The Pirate Lieutenant's Doom. By Jack Farragut. Ready May 29, 282 Buck Hawk, Detective; or, The Messenger Boy’s Fortune. By Edward L. Wheeler. Ready. June 5. 283 Roving Sport Kit; or, The Ghost of Chuckaluck Camp. Bv Edward Willett. Ready June 12. 284 The Showman’s Best Card; or, The Mad Animal Tamer. By Capt. Fred. Whittaker. Ready June 17. BEApLe’s Pocket Lrerary is for sale by all,News- dealers, five cents a copy, or sent by mail on re. ceipt of six cents each. BEADLE and ApAms, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.