Deadwood Dick Library (London, England) (no. 8) (1928)
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| ~ Oto AVALANCHES _ FIGHT WITH ale
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OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT - WITH THE SIOUX CHAPTER I BURIED IN THE DEATH GULCH Four men had pitched their camp on the crater of a northern peak, thousands of feet above the level of the sea, and thousands of feet above the level of the great plains of ‘Nebraska, at the close of what had been a , Sultry August day. _ The peak table-land was far the most elevated of any of its neighbours of the surrounding chain, and its top was as smooth and even as a floor, while in di- mensions it was about three hundred feet in circumference. On the northern, eastern and southern boundaries, stretched away mile after mile, one continuous wilderness of rugged and tree-fringed mountains, whose tops were - capped with snow, and down between which - dashed angry torrents, silvery cascades and slides of rock and frozen ice, into dark, - yawning seams and chasms. - On the western side of this aerial plateau, yawned an immense, fathomless abyss, whose aspect was weird, silent, awful in the extreme. i While two of the four men were preparing _ the evening meal, the remaining two stood at thé brink of the precipice, regarding the scene with awe and silence. - The space in front of them was about fifty feet in width by one hundred in length— -amnaturally formed shaft extending far down into the bowels of the earth. Directly _ across on the western side, and considerably below the plateau, a goodly-sized cascade leaped over into the abyss, and as no sound could be distinguished of its striking bottom, the§watchers drew the conclusion that the _riftZreached down at least to a level with the plains. : Tis a frightful gulch!” ejaculated the elder of the two—a man of some eight and thirty years—“‘at the bottom of which - nothing of life has pzobably ever existed.” “Yes. In all our explorations, Sir Henry, we have never confronted such a fissure of the earth. By my soul, I’d give a_ deal to be able to descend to the bottom, if there is a bottom, and see what sort of a place this chasm really-is.” “True, Milburn; but that could never be. It would require miles of rope to lowér one down, and though we have a good » thousand feet, ’twould not be enough. “Let us be content, then, with the laurels of discovering the highest peak of this wonderful chain of mountains, if not the highest.in America. On the morrow I will hew the name of this expedition in the floor of this high plateau, to tell future generations whose feet first trod upon these rocks.” i So saying, Sir Henry turned back toward the camp-fire, while Milburn remained a ~ short time longer at the brink of the dizzy abyss, staring thoughtfully down into the black depths. “Curse him!” he muttered, gnawing at . his moustache, savagely, “‘ how I hate him.” He rejoined the party at the fire, and seated himself to partake of the dried venison and roasted bear-meat which the other two men had prepared. They were odd-looking specimens of the frontier, and plainly not persons of culture or education like Sir Henry and Milburn. The younger and more noticeable of the — twain, evidently a Canadian, was about — nineteen years of age. He was swarthy in complexion yet not unprepossessing, and possessed a form marked in its muscular development. The second man was short, grizzly and athletic, with not a pound of superfluous . flesh on his limbs, nor a sign of aS ee ie his head, they having been shaven off close to the skull. His eyes were. grey aud =
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2 OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH iercing, his mouth large and indicative of umour, his hair tow-coloured, and his beard brown and stubby. - He was attired in buckskin, as are the ‘generality of Northern mountain-men, and armed with silver-mounted revolvers, knife, tomahawk and Spencer rifle. “Darned bad hoel,” he nodded to Sir Henry, motioning toward the abyss. ‘“Nevyar see’d ther beet on’t, only once afore, in my life.” ‘ “When was that ?” asked Sir Henry. ““ Wal,” said the guide, meditatively, ‘ et ar’ several yeers, since. Et was ther time I war up hyar wi’ ernuther ’sperdition !” ““What!”’ exclaimed the baronet, start- ing up, excitedly ;—‘‘ you do not mean to tell me you were ever here, before, sir ? ” * Reckon I do.” ‘By heavens! you have astonished me. I had supposed we were the first human beings who ever trod upon these rocks. Explain yourself.” “ Thar hain’t much ter ’splain, sar, ’ca’se ef ye’ll go over yander thar, ter the sou’, an’ sharply screwtchinize ther rocks, ye’ll see who’s bin hyar ahead on ye, *thout my *splainin’.”” Sir Henry sprang to his feet at once, as did Milburn, and seizing a flaming cone from the fire, for the pall of night had settled over the land, they hurried ta the southern edge of the plateau, and bent over to scan the rocky floor. They had not long to look, for they soon came upon a spot where, by the skilful use of a hatchet, former dis- coverers had hewn out their names : “Joun C. Fremont.” =“ Kir Carson.”’ “ Here, Lanch,” called Sir Henry, “‘ come here. How did you know of these names ?” Alva Lanch, the guide, left his place by the fire, and sauntered up. “ How did I know on ’em ? ” he repeated, grimly. ‘‘ Wal, I happened ter be hyar when they war cut. I war erlong wi’ ther Fremont experdishun w’en they soar’d over thes d’recshun; an’ conserkently, w’en them handles war indented thar.” “But you never told me?” ““WhyshedI? Yeasked me no questions nor J didn’t tell yeno whoppers. Ye guv me seventy gold dollars ter help ye git onter ther top o’ ther loftiest peak in thes range 0” mountings; I tuk ye up, an’ hyar ye ar’, arter fifteen days’ hard trampin’. Ye’d’ve dun better ter ask me afore we sot out ef ennybody war ever bin hyar ahead on ye. Then I shed ’a’ tole ye yes. As it war, ye neyvyar said boo, so nuther didgIjsay boo. Et-ar’iso, ain’t et, boss ?” “Yes; you speak truly,” replied{Sir THE SIOUX Henry, in a discouraged tone. “ It was all my fault. I never addressed you on the subject, because I did not deem it necessary, so positive was I that no explorer had as yet 5 done this range. How long ago wasit?” ‘* Two years, three months an’ seven days, ter-night.” ‘“* How long did you stay here ?”’ fee “Only over nite uv the day we arriv’. — ’Twas uncomfort’ble. cold up hyar, them times, so we soon dug out for warmer climates. Fremont named yon hoel ther — Death Gulch, becawse his spanyel dorg — tumbled off inter et, an’ Carson called this ther Flat Butte; then we buckled on our armour, an’ marched, marched away.” E “T wish I had known of this some time ago,” said Sir Henry, gloomily, turning — back toward the fire, whither Lanch anc Milburn followed him. 4 Soon the evening pipes were brought ~ forth, and while the quartette puffed awa thereat, the guide related some interesting: details of the former exploring expedition under the great Fremont. ‘ Sir Henry listened eagerly, but Milburn and the young Canadian were not so much interested, and presently withdrew to th edge of the abyss to have a little conversa. tion by themselves. ; , Alva Lanch watched them secretly, as he told his story, under cover of his shaggy eyebrows, but said nothing bearing upon — them. ; Finally the time arrived when it was desirable that all hands should turn in, as an early start was proposed on the following morning ; therefore’ Sir Henry called | cr companions, and bade them prepare for sleep. Ai lugged up from ther second peak, below,” said Lanch, glancing at the fire, which w: fast expiring, ‘‘ fer it begins ter feel er little chilly up hyar. I say, ye Can’dy Thistle s’posin’ ye go an’ try yer ’nack at shinnii rocks. I toted ther fust sackful up; et ar’ no more’n fa’r ye she’d do vice-versy on ther seckont.” d He addressed the Canadian, who w: about to roll himself up in his blanket. ‘ “Bah!” he growled, showing his pearly white teeth in a forced smile; ‘ you’ ; excuse me. I prefer daylight for my clambering over the mountains.” Sn eae “Then you won’t go?” demanded Lanch. — “No; I am quite comfortable,” eS the youth, wrapping himself in his blanket, and giving vent to another smile. “Heret here! Raleigh!” ex Sir Henry, angrily. ““Jet’s have no ae L words of bandy. ll you go for the
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a No,” replied he, doggedly—‘ not to- ight 1" night ea * Then I shall at once discharge you from eS ymy. service.” Will you, though?” hissed the fellow Savagely, his dark visage growing still darker. “Very well; just as you please, And rolling over he made pretence of seeking repose. “Let ’im hev his own way,” said Lanch, taking up a large bag, which lay among the _ Other effects that the party had brought along. ‘‘I’ll slide down fer ther cones in a jiffy. Ter-morrer I’ll wallup ther young whelp fer his imperdence.” He at once descended from the plateau ‘by clambering down from ledge to ledge, and was soon lost from view in the pall of inky blackness that enveloped the moun- tain-top. — “You can lie down, Sir Henry, if you like,” said Milburn, as he lit a fresh pipe of tobacco, “ for I know you must be fatigued, _ from our long ascent, to-day, and need rest. - As for me, I’ll smoke awhile longer, yet, - and await Alva’s return.” The baronet acquiesced in this proposi- _ tion, and leaving Milburn half-reclining in _ the light of the dying embers puffing away _ at his imported meerschaum, Sir Henry -. rolled himself in his blanket, and quickly was in sound and refreshing slumber. - Half an hour wore away, and the loud respirations of the baronet proclaimed that he was sound asleep, whereupon Milburn _ rose stealthily to his feet, and stole forward. - Simultaneously the young Canadian did likewise. “Are you ready?” be demanded, in a whisper. __ “Ay!” replied the other, ‘all ready. Now, then, heave ahead; you take charge of his mouth and see that a screech don’t “escape him, while I bind his hands and feet.” : _ * Agreed !”” whispered back the Canadian; and then the two men threw their combined weights upon the slumbering explorer, and - in a twinkling had him securely bound and ~ gagged. : It is needless to say that Sir Henry was both ‘astonished and enraged at the rude d unceremonious treatment but could only Jay and glare at the two villains in utter elplessness. : “Ha! ha!” laughed Milburn, with a ‘grim chuckle ; ‘‘ you are surprised, eh ? ” . nod of the head signified assent. thought so,” resumed the villain. “Do you recognize me, Sir Henry, as any one you remember of ever having seen ? ” OLD AVALANCHE’S ‘FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX ia ae kN NL Bln ‘Another head-shake, in the negative. “Don’t? Well, probably not. Ismust admit my disguise is one hard to penetrate. This hair, this beard and,these garments are all foreign to your recollection. Yet they hide the man, Sir Henry, whose life has been devoted, since childhood, to the sole attainment of an object—an object which must be patient in forever removing you from my path. Lis’en!” Then he bent low and whispered a few words in the prisoner’s ear, at which the baronet uttered a loud, agonized groan and grew pale and agitated. ‘It is true,” resumed Milburn, with a triumphant leer, ‘‘ and I have followed the- course of your movements ever since you left New York, for the purpose of removing you. I do not wish to kell you. Murder on the hands of an English nobleman is not at all desirable, and therefore I simply wish to put you aside from my path. You admire America ; I love England, my native ~ soil. Then, is it novewell that I should live in England, while you remain here in quiet, peace and plenty ? “Yes |—doubly yes. I have found a cage in which I can confine you, and run no risk of ever being troubled by you again. Raleigh, bring your coil of rope, and fasten one end. about this baronet. Work lively, now, for we must be well away from here, - ere that ferret-eyed guide returns. Once ‘we are safely in St. Joe, and our explorer lies at the bottom of Death Gulch, a thou- sand gold dollars shall be yours, my boy!” The Canadian obeyed with alacrity, and from among the “ traps” of the expedition produced a large coil of stout half-inch rope, an end of which he arranged into a noose and shirred about the baronet’s waist. This done, Milburn proceeded to deliber- ately rifle the prisoner’s person of every: thing of value, save his arms and ammuni- tion, which he did not touch. He then whispered for several moments in Sir Henry’s ear, after which he rose to his feet. “You may pitch all that luggage over into the abyss, first, Raleigh,” he said, setting an example by pitching over blankets, etc., “for in our flight, you see, we shall not be able to carry aught save our weapons, and I do not mean that Alva Lanch shall derive any benefit from these tools and traps!” ‘ Consequently everything save the two villains’ rifles and ammunition was hurled over into the canyon. Sir Henry was then dragged forward to the brink of the frightful gulf, and the lowering began. In vain did Sir Henry endeavour to
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: shriek out a plea for help, or burst the cruel bonds that bound him. @@ All to no avail. iSwiftly the two men on the table-land above allowed the rope to slip through their fingers, and let the helpless victim of a fiendish plot descend into the bowels of the mountains. Sieger | they had-allowed all but about a yard of the death-cord to slip away. “Shall we let him go?” asked Raleigh in a hollow, scared tone. “Yes!” replied Milburn, oT let her slide. the bottom before this; and if he’s not, he _ain’t far from it. Let go/” taThe next instant they released the rope from their grasp ; then, turning like the two guilty wretches they were, they seized their rifles, left the plateau, and hurriedly scurried off down into the black mountainous depths. white and CHAPTER II FIGHTING ODDS Down across the great savannas of the Northwest, booming along in front of a giant volume of wind, which spread its arms out afar, rolled a thick cloud of dust, in * whose depths galloped a party of six persons, all mounted on spirited, thoroughbred animals. Two of the six were ladies, attired in rich but unattractive garments ;. but the fact that they wore diamonds of marvellous size - and lustre, evidenced the supposition that they were persons of wealth and high social rank. The gentlemen were tastefully accoutred, save it be with one exception—the guide of the party—and bore the undeniable impress of refinement. One, who was evidently chief in command, was a tall, athletic young fellow, with clear-cut features, dark-blue eyes, and hair - of a chestnut colour, while in form he was a model of grace and symmetry. The second of the four males was a slender, dark-visaged gentleman,. verging - on forty years, who was evidently a Spaniard, or of some foreign descent. The third was of a far different type, and his hair was sprinkled freely with lines of ey. He was of immense girth, and sat his horse much more clumsily than his companions ; and in his general appearance reminded one of the stern.old lords or dukes of ancient times. = 3 - The ladies evidently were mother and aughter. The leder was-a woman who He’s probably to , had seen not a little trouble, was furrowed deeply and her hair silvery whité. Still, she traces of former beauty, and was yet reall} prepossessing, despite the weary yearnin; expression that ever haunted her sad face. The daughter was a repetition of ‘what. the mother had been in her youthful days— a bright, vivacious little body, just nearin; the portals of a glorious womanhood, laughing eyes, soft blonde hair, thai unconfined to the prairie breeze, am complexion that matched well with br hair and eyes. oss The guide was a stalwart backwoodsman of an uncertain age, and as rough and couth as are the majority of those ever: moving spirits, the Princes of the Tr His name was Dan Coggswell, and he had been engaged at Dakota City to lend his assistance to the pleasure-party, for sui the cavalcade was, during their stay West. nites It is mid-afternoon, and the sun thai hangs like’a golden ball in the azure sky, lights up all objects beneath its with a mellow distinetness. eyes Across to the west looms up the grey uninviting range of mountains that are described as being the rendezvous of numer- — ous bands of red-skins and outlaw: ( the east, coiling its course through ba prairies, runs Au Jaques or Dakota riv in the even tenor of its existence, until i debouches, miles below, into the m: Missouri ; to the south and son’east stretche one of those monotonous savannas — grazing plains of Dakota, famous as ome of the deer and the buffalo, the para dise of hunters and trappers; while to th north and nor’west—ha !. here the inter deepens, and the cause of the undue on the part of the pleasure-seekers, becon apparent. of Sweeping down in their rear, and o couple of miles distant, are a body of men, who, as one glances over them, like a small army, so strong are ‘they numbers. isin And, too, their horses are fresW and flee and they are gaining slowly but surely the party in advance. That they Indians is evidenced by their wild _ their semi-nude dress, and the occasio war-whoops that float faintly forw the breeze. Sioux is their tribe (for if rare occurrence to meet a-war-p: any other tribe in Northern Da that they. are determined to ov fugitives is only too plainly sho 7m with whi ch they urge
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: On, on, on, the pursued whites dashed, - desperately determined to escape if such a ' thing were possible, but as a half-hour flew by, and the horses began to lag and the Indians to gain, Coggswell shook his head doubtfully. “We can’t hold out at this rate, much longer,” he said, as he galloped ahead and joined the young commander; “ for them Soos ain’t goin’ to give us the slip, ye can ‘bet yer eyes; and our hosses are loosin’ all their breath, too. I opine we mought as well come to a halt, an’ try an’ persuade *em not to cum forninst us, as the Irishman stop here and let the devils come up and murder us at their leisure ? Never! We must do something, guide. Is there no other direction we can take to escape these hellhounds ? ” ““Yas,” replied Coggswell, reflectively, “thar is two on ’em.” ** Then, in Heaven’s name, why not take them?” “Wal, I reckon ’twouldn’t be o’ no sorter use, Sir Harry. One’s tow’rd Dakota river. Go that way, an’ the varmints ll head us off afore we git thar, or at furthest will drive us into the stream w’ot are too deep and wide to swim.” eee “The other, then ? ” it “The t’other? Wal, that’s tow’rds - them mountings, off yander. They’re chock fuller o’ ther red heethan an’ white outlaws, than the Black Hills themselves.” “But can we not find temporary shelter there, in some canyon or gulch, where we can fight these rascals, and in due time steal off?” : “Hardly probable. Soos ain’t on ther ' give-up, nowadays. When they scent a 2 poze they’re the lads as hes got as much ang-on-a-tiveness as ther next one. How- - somedever, if ye say the word, we'll shy _ off fur them hills, an’ run our chances.” ’ ““How far are they distant? Can we reach them before our horses give out ? ” “ Reckon so, if we ride full spurt.” “Very well, then lead ahead, and we will follow.” The course of the fleeing cavalcade was _ instantly changed, sharply to the right, and - the spurs used with more vehemence. - On—on, over the green savanna they swept, and in hot pursuit came the red slayers. “JT think I know about the spot where a Lyon opens into them hills,” said the ie, pecring straight ahead, “‘ or at least, eerd Old Avalanche, who traps, hunts an’ ilates Injuns up hyarabouts, say that baer taba Sea OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT Ion he WITH Bi thar war a place o’ ther kind d’rect east — from Flat Butte peak. That's off yonder!” — He pointed straight ahead, and off afar — through the hazy distance loomed up the frowning awful pile of rock whose summit — was hundreds of feet higher than the sur- rounding peaks. “Flat Butte, did you say ?”. exclaimed the elderly lady, excitedly —‘ Flat Butte ? ” “ Yes, ma’am, that’s what I said.” “Oh! Sir Fleming,” she gasped, turning to the gentleman of the great girth, “is that the place? Is that the spot where my dear husband met his death ?’ : : “J think not, Hetty,” replied he, rather nervously, as he took the glass. ‘If yon peak is christened Flat Butte, it is not the one from which Sir Henry flung himself, fifteen years ago. That one is, if I re-° member aright, further south and east.” “ Beg yer pee sir, but I rec’ons how you're mistook. This butte are the only one’s you'll find up nor’, hyar, in this par- ticular region, ’cept it be Pumpkin Butte in the Hills,” said old Dan. : “No, lam nof mistaken,” was the haughty reply. ‘‘ However, let’s drop the subject, and turn our eyes around us, lest we be surprised.” : ‘ A glance went to prove that the pursuers had come within arrow range; and were preparing for a final spurt. Pr n, desperately on they dashed, hotly ~ chased by the painted man-hunters, whose — yells were now increased both in volume — and hideousness. On, and they were’ — nearing the mountain range which rose so frowningly out of the almost level savanna, when Coggswell suddenly shouted : he oe “Look! there is the mouth of the canyon of which I speaked. If we kin git inter it, we kin fight the p’izen varmints at our leisure.” He pointed to a black angular opening in the mighty bluffs of mountain, through — which gurgled a little streamlet. . a A cheer rose ftom the lips of Sir Harry and was answered by a perfect pande- — monium of yells from the savages. ee In five moments Dan Coggswell led his party between the towering walls of the canyon, and ordering the ladies to ride on into the depths, he commanded the men to dismount and prepare to defend themselves. On came the Sioux in a rush, with the idea that they could break into the canyon, but they were mistaken, there. The horses had been wheeled broadside — across the entrance, and as the savage — enemy came pouring into view four well- directed bullets from the little party’s repeating rifles, unhorsed as many reds. Again. the repeaters spoke, and eight
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6 instead of four warriors went sprawling to i the ground. At first the Indians were . confused; and half terrified, beat a hasty = retreat, out of rifie range, to hold a short Z consultation. Soon they came fiercely on in another rush, only to be met with a perfect stream of fire from the wonderful repeating rifles, that swept away half a dozen braves from their ranks. Again they withdrew a short distance, and leaving a post of two-score to watch the fugitives, the main body separated and swerved to either side of the canyon. Their purpose x at once became evident. They were going ie to scale the mountains and enter ao gulch from the rear. CHAPTER Il 3¢ TWO REMARKABLE VISITORS “ Tupy are going to assail us from some other point,” said Sir Fleming, as he with the others watched the division of the Savages. ‘“‘Is there another-end to this canyon, guide, through which we can make our escape?” “Wal, now, that’s a question that only time can solve. P’raps thar’s an outlet sumwhar more or Jess than five thousand tmailes from here, an’ ag’in, p’raps thar ain’t. These canyons ar’ as full o’ crooks, curly- - quews an’ curious freaks o’ natur’ as a - mule’s hind fut.” ~ “And do you think the red-skins who just rode away contemplate climbing the mountains and getting into this canyon in our rear? ”’ asked Sir Harry. “*T hain’t ther least doubt o’ it!” *4“* Then, injGod’s name, what ought we j ‘s do—what must we do?” “ That’s w’at I’m cogitatin’ on, but ain’t made up ‘tay{mind, yet. Give me room an’ time to think.” Then he relapsed into;silence, and while the others were watching the movements of the remainder of the Indians Dan racked his brain for some possible plan by which he could extricate the party from the impending danger. The guard left outside the entrance were now seen to dismount and picket out their ponies, while active preparations were being made for camping on the spot. This convinced the guide that the enemy were not going to relinquish their prize, while there might be a chance of capturing it. - They were going to surround and take the Sorge on all sides. : will camp where we are,’ at fee *‘an’ do the best we can. *Twon’t ae, OLD AVALANCHE’S 5 FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX - vigil, and Dan the last. > he said,~ do to ventur’ inter ther™ depths oe ‘ther mountings too far, fer we mought like’s not git caged thar. Sir Bruce, ye’d better — trot off up the canyon, an’ recall Lady | Milburn an’ Lady Maude, an’ we'll camp right hyar fer ther present.” Sir Bruce obeyed with alacrity, and in half an hour returned with the ladies, and — a camp was pitched on the spot. By this time it was sunset, and the shadows of night settled dark and sombre over the earth. : Sir Harry volunteered to stand guard the fore part of the night, and Dan the latter; © so the night passed away and another day dawned bright and rosy, without sight or sound of hostile movement from the enemy. After breakfast Dan put the camp in charge of Sir Harry, and shouldering his’ rifle and mounting his horse he set off up is canyon to make observations, 2 he Sai The canyon soon proved itself to. be similar to many others of its kind in this wild region. In places it was not over hundred feet wide, and walled in by such mammoth towers of rock that was. densely black at the bottom, which was — grassy and watered by an infant stream. _ Far away, still in the dim distance, loomed up the Flat Butte like a frowning monster, as it reared its summit haughtily above those of its neighbours, and seemed to discountenance human approach. After assuring himself that the canyon extended at least as far as the Flat Butte, he turned his horse’s head toward camp. As he retraced the route over which he had come, he minutely scanned the walls on either side of him, to see if there was any chance for the enemy to penetrate the gorge. No; there was no opening in the great mass of rock, that would admit of pace If they got in at all, it would be by lowering each other with lassoes from the pinnacles above, whither they would have to climb. Satisfied that such was the true state of — affairs, and that days if not weeks must elapse ere such an entrance could be effected, Coggswell rode back to the camp. Here he found matters as he had left them, and that there were no signs of immediate — trouble from the twenty reds who had camped outside the mouth of the canyon. The day passed without incident, and — night with her sombre mantle overshadowed the mountains, canyon, and plain. d Sir Bruce was detailed to keep the first Accordingly, they changed off at. night, and the a weak on, dut
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ag in consternation at the _ The hours went slowly by, and as morn- ing’s dawn. approached, the night grew blacker and stiller. The guide had just returned from a trip around the camp, and was starting off toward the Sioux camp, when a suspicious sound arrested his attention. It came from the direction of the entrance, - and sounded like stealthy footsteps in the tustling grass. Cocking his repeater, Dan peered straight ahead, his eyes sharply searching every object in the pass. Watching warily for a moment longer, . the guide brought his gun to his shoulder, and sang out : ** Halt! Who comes there?” In an instant all was silence. “Speak; who are you?” again de- eee Coggswell, advancing—‘“ friend or ‘oe “IT reckin thet ar’ erbout the state o’ affairs,” replied a shrill, wheezy voice ; and the next moment the figure of a man leaped nimbly from the depths of the grass, and came tumbling with handsprings into the guide’s presence. closely followed by a small, Sheepish-looking animal of the genus ' Capra—a real, live, and exceedingly ugly- looking goat. Dan Coggswell leaped back unceremonious debut of the pair; but, as the little old man _ ceased his eccentric revolutions and came squarely upon his feet, rifle in hand, beside the goat, the guide sprang forward with a glad cry. * Old Avalanche, by all that’s holy!” he exclaimed, catching the newcomer’s hand and wringing it warmly. as er full moon: in fly-time. Sir ? “Yas, yas; yer correckt, b’yee—correckt Et ar’ Old Avalanche, the Injun Annihilator, who is a -voleaner o’ destructiveness, a hail-starm 0’ demolishen,an’ er whirlwind o’ terrificossity.” By this time the shrill tones of the eccentric Avalanche had aroused the camp, and the whole of the party came tumbling out of their tents, to ascertain the cause of _ s0 much commotion. It was still quite dark, and only the out- lines of the two friends’ forms were dis- cernible to the noblemen. “Hello, there, guide!” shouted Sir Harry as he approached, accompanied by ruce and Sir Fleming; ‘‘ what’s the “Oh! nothing much,” was the reply. me Come up, I’ve got a recruit here!” “A recruit, eh?” and the gentlemen crowded eagerly. around. ‘‘What! a mountaineer? Jove; this 7s luck!” pecice el pee eee ~ OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX 7 _ CHAPTER IV WILD EDNA DEMANDS TOLL MorninGc dawned clear and warm, and in the first rosy light, the imprisoned party was enabled to view for the first time a genuine northern mountain man—for such was Old Avalanche—from deerskin leggings and beaded moccasins, to his fringed skin hunting-shirt and bearskin cap. He was of medium stature, with a.muscu- larly developed form, and clean, wiry limbs, and looked to be a person of uncommon strength. Though well along in years, he was still supple and active as a man of forty. His skin was tanned to a dark brown, and his whole face and appearance was as grizzly as grizzly could be. His face was deeply scarred and seamed, his hair was long and tangled, and his eyes were wonderfully- brilliant and piercing, considering his age. They seemed capable of reading one’s © innermost thoughts and secrets. In some affray, he had lost both ears, a disfiguration that would render him recognizable in any place or under any circumstances. His arms were of improved pattern and ~ finish, the rifle beiag a repeater, and the revolvers in his belt of the Colt make. A bowie and hatchet also hung at his Rips = e and this completed the outfit of the notab: mountaineer and guide. His reception by the Ladies Milburn was hearty, and Sir Harry and Sir Bruce were no less demonstrative in their joy at his coming. Dan had said much of the prowess, skill and ingenuity of the Annihilator, and » now that he had condescended to drop in’ upon them, all felt that they could rely upon him to extricate them from. their present difficulty and danger. “JT dunno, about it,’’ was the veteran’s reply, when Sir Harry asked him if he felt himself equal to the task of guiding them into a place of safety. | “But there certainly must be some way by which to escape from here. Does not this canyon have an opening at some other point ?” ; ““Ye’ve got ther Avalanche thar, b’yee, fer sart’in, ’ca’se I don’t eggsactly kno’. Ye see, I nevyar ’splored it any fu’ther’n the Flat Butte, whose base ar’ ’bout twenty miles from hayr. Thar mought be another eend to et, then ag’in thar moughtn’t.” » “Indeed ! range extend ?”” bea] ““More or less’n a hundred miles. It’s clar twenty on ’em¥to ther fut 0’ ole Flat Butte, an’ thet ar’n’t™a sarcumstance ter w’ot’s beyond,” a How far westward does this
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at the thing. OLD AVALANCHE “Humph! We are indeed in a trap, then. I almost despair of ever getting back ‘within the bounds of civilization.” “Ye mustn’t guv up so easy.” ** And why hope, pray ?” ““Oh! fer numerous reasons. I’ll bet a cart-load o’ b’ar-meat that I an’ my j’int “ll get you out o’ this, afore long!” “Your jint ?” “*Pegsactly—my chap need half-an’-half!”* “T fail to comprehend.” “Eh? Don’t see thr’w’ et ? Wal, that’s quare. Ye observe thet my goat thar, ar’ a jint o’ the great thunderstarm o’ boreal destruction, an’ consekently he’s a j’int 0” ther famuss Avalanche, w’ich same ar’ yer *umble sarvint. He’s my goat, is Florence Night-in-a-gale, an’ I’m his goatee.” Then, looking to his weapons the eccentric old fellow threw himself on the ground and wiggled off toward the entrance of the canyon, closely and silently followed by his remarkable goat. The two were absent a greater share of the day, and those in camp were beginning to grow fearful that their stand-by had either deserted them or been captured, when he quietly reappeared among them, accom- panied by Florence, A glance at his grim, anxious face told them that something had happened, which boded them no good. “What is it, sir?” asked Lady Milburn as she a Bree him, leaning on the arm of her beautiful daughter. “I trust we are in no immediate danger of- being _ massacred? Coggswell said, only yesterday, that he apprehended no trouble for several days yet.’ “Wal, ma’am,” was the Annihilator’s answer, as he seated himself in a convenient boulder, “‘ that’s all to one’s way o’ thinkin’. _ As I’ve obsarved severial times behind, it ginneraley takes two or more parsons to make a bargain. Now, then, I an’ my jin’t, hyar, Florence Night-in-a-gale, hey been com- parin’ notes, to-day, an’ we’ve arriv’ at ther universal conklusion thet we’re goin’ to expeerience thunder’n’ hot times, pitty soon, near’s we kin jedge !” “What’s that?” asked Sir Harry, coming up. ‘“‘ Have you made any alarm- ing discoveries, scout ? ”’ *Alarmin’ ? Wal, that’s jes’ as ye luke You mought call ’em alarmin’, while I called ’em simply ‘hot.’ -Ther pererarey ar’ jes’ swarmin’ wi’ red-skins, an’ they’re preparin’ to drive us back inter ther mountains. See hayr, folkses, thar’s one thing’w’at puzzils me. Evry%con- ‘sarned Injun out thar kerries ther calky- Jashun *bout him, thet when they get ' pile of rock and wild grandeur, the you-’uns they'll git swads on swads 0’ money an’ dimunds an’ jewels, an’ sich like. Thar’s white devils *mong ’em w’at’s seen ye up at Dakota City—Idaho Bill an’ Red Bill, for instance, who ar’ two o’ the wu’st — cut-throats this side o’ perdishen, an’ — they’re a-urgin’ on the red niggurs by tellin’ *em w’at lots o’ spondulix ye’ve got. Now, — is this so, or is et sum o’ them renegades’ cussed lyin’ ? ” ‘s Sir Harry and Lady Milburn exchanged glances ; then the former replied : 23 “Yes, it is partly true. e have money and jewels enough about our persons to come to a million dollars if sold in fair markets.” ; The old man shrugged his shoulders. “Ye’re dumblasted fools fer bringin’ em out inter this kentry, then,” he growled. “‘ Thet, however, ain’t none o’ my bizness, Ye’ve got yerselves inter a muss, an’ ye ~ must aren to bear up no, matter w’c *tarn t) oh I j’ine ye!” “ But what do you intend to do? ” “JT must steal a hoss frum them Injuns fust. Nevyer feer fur me. I'll cum out top 0’ the pile.” ieee ‘Shall we take the tents along? ” asked Sir Harry. : “No. Leave ’em whar they ar’. may keep ther reds from ’speckin’ sloped an old mountains, for the sky was over with menacing black clouds; and still fugitives Purged Stheir steeds through th gloom of‘the great canyon. ae As the first tints of day-dawn were see to flush againstithe mountain crests, the: came to a halt at the base of that mi; Butte. ss “Thar, ma’am,” said old Dan, doffing his hat respectfully to Lady Milburn, as he noddedi¥upward &towards the far- peak—* that’s ther Flat Butte, up
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_ in all Dakota; in fact, thar ain’t ernuther flat butte short o’ ther Black Hills or ther _ Rockies.” , “ Oh, Sir Fleming ! ” exclaimed the lady ; then you must be mistaken. This must _ be the mountain I am in search of. Oh! - sir, do not tell me I am wrong. I must, I _ will know the truth, and have a search made for my poor, lost Henry’s bones. Ay, I will, sir, if we have to search the country over!” “Nonsense, Hetty; you are getting __erazy over this subject. I have told you once that this is not the Flat Butte I mean. Is not that enough ?” “Not itis not enough!” cried Sir Harry, sternly. “I now fully believe this ‘to be the peak.” “ Take care, young man, how you speak to me, your better. You forget.” “No, I forget nothing; nor dol {fear you. If my mother wishes search}made, it shall be made! Let that be understood.” “Tt shall not, without my consent. Who - commands this party, Pes, pice _* I do—my share of it !’? was the retort of the decided young nobleman. “And what do you claim as your part?” sneered Sir Fleming. “My mother and sister, sir, and our ide, I trust, Sir Tyrant. As to Sir Bruce count on him as ally or not.’ _ Sir Bruce smiled a purely French smile, and nodded his head negatively. _ “Sir Harry forgets that I owe my sup- port and title to Sir Fleming,” he said, in a soft, oily voice.* ‘I should therefore con- _ Sider Ais wishes above all others.” “Very well,” bowed the haughty young _ peer, coolly; “just as you like. Your _- room is of more account than your society.” _ Sir Fleming laughed, evilly. -“T think by the rights of a husband and guardian, I also have the ladies under my control!’ he chuckled. - Sir Harry bit his lip savagely, but did not answer. Coggswell, however, spoke for ; “Enough o’ this wranglin’, now,” he - growled, ‘“‘fer thar’s other biz on hand. e’re goin’ to have visitors.” : _ He pointed on up the canyon to where a large party of horsemen had come in sight ‘through the gloom, and were galloping - down toward them. They were all attired in the garb of mountain-men, were armed with polished rifles, revolvers and knives, and wore crape veils as masks over the upper portion of their. faces. : jut, most strange of all, they were headed .woman—a young and beautiful creature, skin of creamy whiteness, pure and tne OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX squirk, I do not know whether I can. being any amount I may see fit_to exact classic features, eyes like stars in their brightness, and hair of nut-brown colour, which hung to her waist in a mass of wild confusion._ . She was mounted upon a superior black charger, adorned with gay and elegant trappings, and sat her saddle with the ease ~ and grace of a finished equestrienne. a “But, who is it?—who are they?” 3 asked Sir Harry. : “Ther femayel is Wild Edna, the Girl Bandit, an’ them others ar’ her backers— as wild an’ fearless a set o’ devils as ever chawed le’d !”’ replied Coggswell. : “What! a girl-bandit ? that beauteous girl a bandit ? Impossible, sir!” ““No, et ain’t nuthin’ o’ the kind. wait a bit an’ ye’ll see fer yerself.” At the guide’s command all the men — cocked and raised their rifles, and as the_ newcomers came within speaking distance, old Dan sang out : “* Halt or we fire!” ; Wild Edna addressed her followers then, and they drew up in form across the canyon, while she, affixing a white ’kerchief to the end of her rifle, rode fearlessly forward. ““What do you want?” demanded Sir Fleming, as she rode within a few rods and drew rein. ‘“‘ What and who are you? ” A smile irradiated the maiden’s face as she eyed every one among the party, and then replied : ““Your ponderous lordship, I have the honour of introducing myself as Wild Edna, the Girl Bandit. Those I left behind me are my men. May I make bold to : inquire what brought you into Devils Canyon ? ” ; ey ““ We were driven hither by the Indians,” replied Sir Harry, eyeing the vision of beauty before him with undisguised ad- miration. = ‘By the Indians, eh?. Well, thatisno ~~ uncommon occurrence, for we often see — parties of hunters, trappers and explorers caged in this same trap. I suppose it is your desire to Feed on through the canyon and get out of these mountains, is it not ?” ; “Most assuredly, if there is possibility of such an escape.” 3 “You are then, doubtless, prepared to pay the toll without delay, so that you can earlier take your departure ? ” “ The toll?” ase “The toll. Every person who passes the Flat Butte by the gateway of the Devil’s Canyon is required to pay a toll, the same Jes * On consideration of its payment in go greenbacks, my followers see that yo guarded safely on through the mount: a
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10° and started en voute for the nearest post of civilization.” “What toll do you require,’ asked Sir Harry, ‘‘ before you pass us on?” “Well, that depends. Let me see— there are six of you, and I see that all of you save the guide sport diamonds—a fact that tells me your wealth is great. Of what nationality are you?” “All, except two, Bruce here, is a French Canadian, and the guide a Yank!” “Very well. The toll, siz thousand dollays—one head!” then, shall be thousand a CHAPTER V OLD AVALANCHE ON THE RAMPAGE Arter the cavalcade was out of sight up the ravine or canyon, Old Avalanche began to fix things around in camp, in such a manner as would lead the savages to suppose all the party were still there. He found several blankets in the tents, and wrapping these about suitable broken limbs that were strewn about, he manufactured some quite creditable dummies, which were put in position near the mouth of the gorge. After arranging everything quite to his satis- faction, he stationed the goat near the entrance to watch, while he threw himself upon the ground and was soon off in a sound and refreshing slumber, from which he did not waken until the shadows of night had enveloped the earth. Then, after calling in Florence by a shrill whistle, he ate a few bits of dried bear-meat, after which he was ready for the war-path. Out on the prairie he could see the glow of many camp-fires, and from these he guessed that the reds were not to attack the camp that night, or, if at all, not until a late hour. After carefully examining his weapons, and bidding Florence to lie down and watch the camp, he slung his rifle behind his back, threw himself on all-fours, and crept out of the mouth of the canyon. Once outside, he came to a momentary halt and cautiously gazed about. All around him lay spread out a panorama of wildness, life and grand- eur. Down across the almost limitless plain, were the lights of twinkling camp- fires, which there lit up the starless night like open day; the moving of hundreds of dusky figures, the neighing of horses and the guttural shouts of men, told that there was the Indian camp. After ‘several moments’ scrutiny, Old Avalanche became satisfied on two points. Os 3 Lat Pt ae el RE OO ee OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX are English. Sir © One was that there was a large increase in numbers since his previous visit, and the other was that there were not less than a dozen sentinels concealed in the grass, very close to where he was crouching. To get beyond their lines without attract- ing attention he well knew was impossible ; — but beyond he was determined to go, if he had to wade through a whole regiment of - them. So, tightening his belt, and drawing his keen-edged bowie, he crawled carefully on, making scarcely any sound or stir among the high grass. Presently he suddenly paused. ‘ Right in front of him he heard a rustle, which betokened the presence of a savage. ° Had the red-skin discovered him? For _ fully half a minute the scout paused in doubt; but, as all was again silence, he thrust the blade of his knife between his — teeth, and began to wriggle slowly back- ward. This retreat, however, was of but short duration for he soon came to another halt. : : x There were enemies coming up in his rear \ #3 One of ’em’s Idaho Bill,” he muttered, as the loud, brawling voice of one of the ~ newcomers floated out on the air. “Darn his black hide, et won’t do fer him ter git — his peepers on ther Averlanche—ther boreal breeze o’ destructiveness, or tharll be miracles to pay. I opine et would be healthy to slope.” In retreating from where he supposed the sentinel to be lying, it had been the scout’s - plan to gather himself ups and, by a suc- cession of handsprings, land plump’ on top on his enemy; but a glance, now, warned him that this would be impossible on account of the approach of Idaho Bill and his companions; so he once more crawled ahead toward the concealed red-skin. He experienced no difficulty in obtaining his former position, where he paused and grasped his knife in afirmhand. — ; Then he listened. There was no noise — ahead. The next instant, the Annihilator gathered himself up and made a fierce Tunge ahead through the grass, to where he believed the savage was lying. ‘ But, great was his mistake. er No savage was there, and his long knife was plunged to the hilt in the earth. Ere he could withdraw it, he heard a chuckling grunt, and wheeled about just in time to avoid the blow from a hurtling tomahawk, hurled from the hands of a giant savage, not six yards away. In another instant the two had spran to each other’s embrace, and were loc in a desperate war-hug. Over and.
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they rolled through the rustling grass, writhing, twisting and squirming, but emitting no sound save what was caused by their movements, each determined to crush the other in his terrible hug. The Annihilator was knifeless, but still had his revolvers, but clasped in that terrible hug he could not draw either weapon. The red-skin still possessed his knife, but was likewise powerless to use it. So the struggle depended alone upon craft and strength. : The red-skin was gradually warming up to his work, and bent all his energies toward retaining his position on the upper side. And, though the scout fought desperately against this, he was doomed to defeat, for, ere he was scarce aware of the fact, the savage had wrenched himself from his hold, turned him under, and pinioned him securely to the ground as in the grip of a vice. So astonished was Old Avalanche that for a few moments he was rendered speechless. Never before had he been so easily conquered by one of the hated red-skin race. The grinning captor seemed to divine his thoughts for he said: “Ugh! white dog much heap big brave ; kill many Sioux. Running Antelope too much stout for ’im, dough. He take great brave to Rain-in-the-Face, an’ dey burn him at stake!” _No-Ear listen. “Ye will, hey? Yell take ther enor- mous Norweegjan avalanche ter yer camp, will ye, an’ roast him in ther Soo fryin’ skillet, will ye?” “Ugh! yes. Rain-in-the-Face he heap glad to see the No-Ear brave. Let the The white chief is coming, and he will help Antelope bind his prisoner.” Old Avalanche’s heart now sank within him, for he heard the tramp of many feet and the loud murmur of approaching voices that told him Idaho Bill and his companions were coming up. Once more he struggled fiercely to free himself, but all in vain. _ away.” Running Antelope had him where he could hold him firmly. “Weh!? he chuckled—‘ can’t no git But he spoke not the truth, then. Scarcely had the words left l\is lips when there came upon his hearing the shrill bleat of a goat, and the next instant the form of Florence Nightingale shot meteor-like through the air, and the Antelope became _ the recipient of a tremendous bunt in the back that shut him up like a jack-knife, ‘and wholly broke his hold upon the scout. # Old Avalanche leaped to his feet with lacrity and darted away into the darkness, or the red-skin’s howls instantly brought warm of his comrades to the spot; and OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX <n it was not safe to linger thereabouts longer. Florence meekly followed, and in a few moments the two were out of the reach of immediate danger. Here the old man halted and took in his bearings, after which he started off in the direction of the corral, which lay some two miles distant to the northeast. In order to reach it he was obliged to make a circuit of the entire camp, that was now awakened and on the alert ; for, by the magic system of Indian telegraphy, the news had been transmitted to every camp- fire of the scout’s escape. But to a man as thoroughly experienced as the Annihilator, this was merely play, and in the course of half an hour he and his faithful “*j’int ” were close in the vicinity of the corral. This was about fifty rods from any camp-° fire, and the animads were guarded by four . mounted braves, each well armed. The red-skin nearest to where Old Ava- lanche and Florence were crouching, was a stalwart young warrior, and was mounted upon a clean-limbed, fiery Texan horse of a jet black colour. As he gazed at the handsome warrior and the magnificent horse, a desperate resolve entered the Annihilator’s mind. He would obtain possession of that animal, or something more than a common “scrimmage ”’ would prove a failure. With it, and he on its back, it would be no trick at all to dash back into the Devil’s Canyon, from whence he would follow and join ‘the advancing party. ; Bidding Florence to lie down, the scout scrawled stealthily forward through the grass, and after some time reached a posi- tion directly behind the guard’s steed, and so close that he could touch its haunches with his hand. Then he rose softly to his _ feet. The brave was still unmindful of the” presence of an enemy. : For several moments Old Avalanche softly stroked the hairy haunches of the horse to quiet him, for, on the scout’s rising he had appeared restive. Then placing his two hands firmly on the animal’s hips, he made an agile spring and landed squarely upon his back behind the sentinel, around whom he flung his arms in a steel-like embrace. si The horse reared, and snorted with terror, and then dashed away wildly, bearing straight down into the swarming camp.
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CHAPTER VI A SPECTRE ON THE SUMMIT Att, even Coggswell the guide, put up their hands in astonishment at the amount demanded by the Girl Bandit. They had imagined her toll would not exceed a few dollars, consequently the sum named seemed almost an incredible fee. ** Zounds !”’ cried Sir Fleming ; “‘ do you imagine we are made of money? Your impudence is astounding! Had I a suitable whip I would chastise you.” A merry peal of laughter from Wild Edna showed how this little speech affected her. Evidently she was as fearless as she was beautiful. *“Who are you, lady ?” asked Sir Harry, respectfully. “‘ We seldom see females of your surpassing loveliness the master of such a dangerous and romantic situation.” ‘True, Sir Inquisitiveness ; but who I am, and what are my antecedents, concerns you not, that Isee. My business here is to collect the toll: for passing through this canyon, and not to divulge my secrets and history to utter strangers.” » Her voice was now cold and haughty. Sir Harry flushed a trifle, and bit his lip to keep back a hot reply. Her retort had dampened his ardour more than he would have dared to own. Then, turning to the Girl Bandit, he continued : “Well, what are you waiting for?” “* For six thousand dollars,” was the cool, unconfused answer. “Indeed! You can go, then, for you will get no such a sum out of me!” said Sir Harry. . : _. “May I presume to inquire, then, what you will do? You can go no farther in this direction without paying the toll.” “ You forget we are armed, and capable of fighting our way through!” ventured Sir Bruce, sneeringly. “*Scarcely through such odds as my band. I command full sixty brave men. . What could you hope to do against them?” _ **Not much, it is true. Nevertheless, I, for one, will not submit to being swindled thus out of a thousand dollars. I refuse to pay youa single dollar !”” é ~ “Tikewise, I!” ge Sir Fleming. “And I!” from Sir Harry. ' “And I!” grinned old Dan. “ This chicken’s bin bankrupt these five years.” _ “Very well. If this is your final decision, gentlemen,1 suppose it includes your ladies -as well as yourselves.” ‘ “It does.” “Then I will bid you adieu. Make n attempt to go farther up the canyon, or you will be riddled with bullets. These are _ stern laws, but they are such as bind the banditti of Devil’s Canyon together. You have refused to pay the toll, To-morrow, next day, and the next I will visit you and ~ request its payment. If you refuse each — time, you will not be dunned again!” “Indeed. Then, I suppose you will — adopt harsher measures ? ” . “Yes. The laws of the brotherhood will — then grant you ten days to escape from the _ canyon, by the route you came, if you can fight through a legion of red-skins. On the morn of the eleventh day the flood-gates of _ Lake Tico, a sheet of water in the peaks of this range and connecting with Devil’s — Canyon, will be removed and its water will sweep all that blocks its path, in this place, away!” : ahs Then the beautiful commander turned her horse’s head, touched him with her — jewelled whip, and galloped back to the band. After a short consultation they soo all dashed away up the canyon and quickl disappeared among its numerous curves. After they were out of sight Sir Ha turned to Coggswell. agit “Well, it is done with now, I suppose. What are your views on the subject, old man ? ” a Dan shook his head dubiously. “ Ye’ve got me,” he replied, slowly. don’t know no more what ter do nor does a new born babe!” eee ‘** Then there is no'way we can get out of ee ee by retreating or going ahead, ~ é : ** None’s I knows on. _I opine we'd bett: camp down hyar, ’cordin’ ter Avalanche’s’ orders, an’ wait fer him tew come up.” Dan then dismounted, while the oth followed his example. The canyon was~ carpeted with an abundance of grass at this point, and after the animals were © picketed out to graze, the guide set about atranging the camp. As but one hour’s sunlight penetrated the bottom, it was quit chilly even in midday, so a roaring fire w kindled out of cones and brushwood. The day passed slowly away. ot While the others were lounging abo camp, Dan shouldered his rifle and scou : the sides of the canyon in hopes of finding Ae some break that would permit them we escape. from the impending danger tt vain the search; the giant walls t ; frowningly aloft, unbroken, and uninviting. — No break in their face would admit of the — passage of ahuman being. _ sete Their camp w irectly at~th = es net
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in the shadow of the giant Flat Butte. Any - person standing on its summit could drop a pebble into camp, and kill a man as easily - as to fling a stone. So argued Sir Fleming, ~ and he requested that the camp be removed _ farther up the gorge. The guide went off to see how near were Wild Edna’s guards, and soon returned with the news that a single guard was, posted a mile farther up the canyon. : “But I’ll wager thar’s slathers more on ‘em cluss by,”’ he said by way of conclusion. ' The camp was accordingly transferred _ several hundred yards to the western side of the mountain, and out of such danger as Sir Fleming had apprehended. At last night fell over the peaks, and : pecnerations were made to “turn in.” Il were more or less anxious about the ‘non-appearance of Old Avalanche, except - Sir Fleming and Sir Bruce. -. They were apparently unconcerned, or at least, they did not seem to care whether he returned or not. _ Tt is possible he may have been captured by the Indians,” suggested Lady Maude, as _ they all stood grouped around the crackling ‘camp-fire. _ *¥-a.s, et’s possible, an’ that’s erbout all. I tell ye it takes a red-skin wi’ a cast- iron he’d ter take ther Annihilator, all alone. I’ve knowed ov his escapin’ from ther red warmints w’en they hed him all ready to roast—I hev, by gum. He’s jes’ as slippery as an eel, an’ hes got as many ives as er Spotted tom-cat.” _ After a few more words, the ladies retired to their tent, the noblemen threw themselves down near the fire to sleep, and Dan went on guard. He made a tour up and down the canyon, but failed to discover any signs of prowlers. Doubtless the Indians had not yet pene- trated the gorge, and as for the bandits, they probably meditated n& mischief; so all was safe for the present. Returning to camp the faithful fellow Seated himself near the fire to ponder over he strange position into which he had been a thrown. : ates ae his eyes grew heavy, and despite his efforts to keep awake he soon fell fast uld not enjoy the same peaceful blessing. “T have a foreboding of coming danger,” ately writhing and twisting to get free. ea hia FIGHT WITH T she murmured, as she at last arose to a half-sitting position, and peered around her. ‘I wonder what it means? Can the Indians be creeping upon us!” : Through an aperture in the blankets, a faint glimmer of light from the expiring fire shone into the tent. Instinctively my lady drew her jewelled watch from its place in her belt. The hour was midnight; the camp and the awful mountain solitude were hushed in slumber. Casting a shawl about her shoulders, and rising to her feet, she stepped from the tent and stood in the open air. ‘ All of the men ay prone upon the grass, sound asleep, save old Dan; for, though he was lost in unconsciousness, he retained an upright, sitting position, his knotty hands clasped over the muzzle of his pet rifle. So peacefully was he seeping. that Lady Milburn could not bear to disturb him. She shivered a trifleat the crisp mountain air, and drew closer to the fire. Then, in- voluntarily, she raised her eyes toward the top of the frowning Flat Butte. As she did so, she gave a low, stifled cry. Great Heaven! What was this she saw ? Was she dreaming, or was it reality ? The summit was illuminated by a mighty bonfire, which lit up the northern sky to a blood-red glow. Standing at the edge over- Ae ‘looking the canyon was a tall, spectral Se clothed in snowy white, with a beard 2 the same colour that reached nearly to his eet. In his hand he held an instrument re- sembling a baton, and he was wildly waving this to and fro, while faintly downward on the breeze floated the strains of a weird chant. With dilated eyes, Lady Milburn watched — and listened. Then suddenly the spectral figure seemed to see her, for he ceased his song and pointed one long menacing finger down toward her, as if in terrible anger. She grew deathly faint and endeavoured ~ to collect her senses. But her head swam wildly, her limbs refused to rae i her, and with an awful, piercing shrie’ . upon the ground, insensible. CHAPTER VII ‘THE THUNDER-STARM 0’ DESTRUCTION ” RURSTETH FORTH On—on, leaped the frightened horse, on _ whose back were the two struggling men— Avalanche endeavouring to get his enemy’s knife into a fatal spot, the savage desper- she sank
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ta Finally, however, he gave a gurgling gasp, and Jeaned back in the scout’s arms. He was dead. Skilfully disengaging his feet from the stirrups, Old Avalanche permitted him to topple off into the grass, and then he was master of the horse. By this time he was right in the camp, and as it would be useless to attempt retreat, he urged on the flying steed by pricking it with his knife-point, and away they rushed straight down through camp-fires and clumps of Indians like a hurricane wind. Shrieks of surprise and anger went up from a hundred throats, and high above all roared the stentorian voice of the dauntless scout. On—on, dashed the spirited horse and his more spirited rider—on like the wind, and still the surging swarm of red-skins grew denser and thicker. Suddenly Old Avalanche made a dis- covery that had hitherto escaped his notice. A roaring camp-fire was burning in the entrance to the canyon. Forms, tall and grim, stood in its light, and he knew they were Indians. Still, he was determined to break through their ranks, if su¢h an act were possible, and gain the gorge beyond. On he sped, through the heart of the camp, and, strange to say, as soon as the wily red-men became convinced that he was heading for the canyon, not a hand was raised to stop him. Instead, the screaming horde closed in after him, and followed, yelling at his horse’s heels. m At first he was unable to comprehend their motive, but not long, however, was he to be left in a state of doubt. As he approached the entrance he made the startling discovery that the’mouth of the canyon was crammed fullPof painted savages through whom no man or beast could for a moment hope to break. Plainly he was in an Indian trap. The over-exultant demons were yelling in his face, at his back, and on either side of him. Swarms of the dancing and screeching imps were crowding up from every hand. Escape’seemed an Lena Old* AvalancheTreined*in#his"steed, and glared about. him as does a hunted tiger when at bay. Should he yield and allow himself to be taken a prisoner, or, worse still, be slaughtered, then and there ? No! a hundred times, no. It was not the nature of the old man to willingly give up. There must be a struggle first, andgin¥that struggle more than one Sioux dog would bite the dust. OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX — He set his teeth together with a click, and replacing the knife in his belt, drew and cocked his two handsome revolvers, one of which he held ready in each hand, for — instant use. : pe Nearer and nearer trotted the savages. — They well knew the desperate character with whom they had to deal. They all had either met or heard of him and his prowess, and they knew he never pulled a trigger on the same man, twice ! The Sioux came to a halt just out of rifle range, and appeared to hesitate. toad The figure of the splendid horse and its — watchful rider, as they remained outlined against the firelit sky, looked a formidable object to attack. In the midst of this hesitation, two figures were trying to urge on the painted hell- — hounds. : = ‘ One was a brawny Indian chief, who wore — his hair down over his shoulder—an evil, brutal-looking fellow, with eyes as red as — fire, and lips thick and flabby like a negro’s. You ask who is this? No one who has — seen the notorious chief, Crazy Horse, once would need to ask. Once seen he is not easily to be forgotten. The other manisa — half-breed associate whose name is Idaho : Bill—or William Cummings. This well. — suited pair are urging on the savages, by E curses and threats. <4 Finally, the two chiefs succeeded in — animating their warriors. They came — stealthily.on, watching the scout in half- — terror and rage. He seemed so cool, that” they could but admire, hate, and fear him all at the same time. iad It was understood throughout the horde, — that Old Avalanche was to be taken alive. The scout, himself, easily guessed this, else he would have been shot down before. tem But if they counted on an easy victory, they were greatly mistaken. No sooner was the flash of a pistol to be seen than the Annihilator commenced a destructive fire to the right, left and in front, and for every shot he aimed, an Indian fell. “Take him alive !”’ shouted a voice from the background. “Take him alive!” = A grim, defiant smile’ flitted across the features of the Annihilator, as’ he hex these words. No sooner had he empti the chambers of his revolvers, than, by a deft movement, he extracted them, and re placed them by duplicate chambers, filled with cartridges ! Consequently he was again ready fo: business, Crack! crack! went thy weapons. nowsaimed toward the weakes i
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Peas Mea ; “Cuss ye!” he gritted, pinioning the Savage to the ground, “‘I’ll l’arn ye w’ot et ___ ar’ to blockade er Norweegjan avalanche, ye __ copper-hued hippopotamus. Take thet!” ; He buried his knife in the naked bosom, and the next instant had leaped to his feet ' and was away through the darkness. The whole horde were now swarming after him in mad pursuit. He must have a horse, or vain would be the attempt to escape. The enemy could chase him down ere he could run half a mile. So he shaped his course toward the corral, whither the horses were guarded. The savages anticipated him, and before he was scarcely aware of it, he beheld a dozen sweeping down upon him. Had they discovered him? He did not wait to see, but threw himself in the tall ass and crept with great alacrity out of heir path. With beating heart he awaited the result. Would they pass by ? No! they had seen him, and were once _ more shaping their course toward where he _ Was crouching. Concealment was now of no further use, so he sprang to his feet and leaped deter- minedly on. As he ran he loaded both of his revolvers rith fresh cartridges, and retained them in her hand for ready use. On—on hejleaped, silently and desper- OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH cried, in anguish. oe THE SIOUX ately, his feet scarcely touching the ground, so light was he of step. ra On—on; then suddenly he stumbled over some object which was lying in the ass, and fell prostrate. But he was on, oot again, in a twinkling, and dashing swiftly away. Next, he heard a noise directly at his heels, as if somebody was dogging him. With a growl of desperation, he drew back the hammer of one of the revolvers, and wheeled about. As he did so there came to his hearing a familiar “‘ba-a-a,” and Florence Nightin- gale came bounding joyfully up. wg ‘‘ Hello, ole boy,” saluted the scout, with an appreciative grin. ‘So ye’re a-kickin’, hey? Wal, kim erlong. Things ar’ kinder brisk, jes’ now, so we’ll nessessarily hev ter git!” Once more he turned and darted on, the affectionate and knowing goat bringing wu the rear. On came the savages yelling wit. triumph. On, for five moments more; then the dauntless Annihilator stopped, stock-still. He saw now, the cause of their yells of triumph. There were mounted Indians in front, behind and on either side of him; + he was perfectly surrounded 1 CHAPTER VIII JOSIAH HOGG, ESQ. Lapy Mivpurn’s scream brought the camp to their feet in a jiffy. Dan Coggswell was the first to spring to her side, to be immediately followed by Sir Harry, Bruce and Fleming. The insensible Woman was borne to the light of the camp-fire, and the old guide procured a hatful of water and dashed it into her face. ei “I wonder w’at ked’ve skeer’d her?” — he said. ‘‘ My nostrils don’ scent Injuns, or I shed say she seen one!” “There may be prowlers around,” replied — Sir Harry, uneasily. ‘‘ Perhaps it would ~ be well for you to scout about the neigh- _ bourhood, and learn for certain.” POSE Dan accordingly seized his rifle and set out into the gloom, while the others set about restoring Lady Milburn to conscious- : ness. In the midst of the efforts Lady Maude came flying out of her tent. % = “Mamma, mamma; where is she?” she “She is gone!” : Then as her gaze fell upon the prostrate and apparently lifeless form, she burst into a flood of tears. “Be quiet,” said Sir Harry, soothingly.
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16 “Mother has only?fainted. Somethingjhas frightened, her}! ” : After several applications of water, her -ladyship gave signs of returning conscious- ness, and then with a sudden spasm and gasp, she gave vent to a stifled cry, and sat bolt upright. Herjfacefwas very palefand her eyes wild and burning with an unnatural fife. The moment she was fully awakened to the knowledge of her situation, she shuddered violently, and to the crest of the mighty Flat Butte turned her horrified gaze. Great Heaven ! it was gone | fE&No longer was the spectral figure standing at the edge of the precipice; all traces of the blood-red bonfire had disappeared, and the summit was enveloped in its mantle of impenetrable gloom. ‘Oh! Henry, Henry!” she cried in piteous accents, “why did you come back to haunt me—to drive me almost mad with despair Re “My dear,” said Sir Fleming, advancing, “what gave you affright? What caused you to faint?” She shuddered, as he laid his hand upon her shoulder. “What did I see ? ” she repeated, turning on him almost savagely—‘‘ what did I see, to cause me to swoon away? I will tell you. On the crest. of yon mountain-top, wrappedin a halo of glory, I saw the spirit of your victim—of my poor, long-lost husband, Sir Henry. I begin to under- stand you more than I did at first—to comprehend your baseness and treachery. You told me this was wot the mountain-top from which Sir Henry fell. Youlied! His accusing spirit came back to give proof of your lie!” Sir Fleming turned red and white by turns, but finally managed to emit a harsh, sarcastic laugh. 5 “You are demented, Hetty,’ he replied, with a dubious shake of his head. “I was a fool for ever permitting you to come out on this wild-goose chase. Each day is - increasing your mania, and by the time we get back to England, if we ever do, you will have to go into a private asylum!” Again she turned toward him, her dark eyes blazing with indignation. © ~ “And you will place me there ? ” **T will place you there |!” “You will not!” cried Sir Harry, pushing the baronet back, and standing between him ‘and Lady Milburn. ‘‘ You forget that I am here to defend her!” q “No, young man, I forget nothing. But, mind you, J am master of that woman, so ‘step aside, or it will be the worse for you.” eet ye Ene K : ‘ pia ee ee OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX intruders to b But Sir Harry folded his hands proudly across his breast, and glared at the other fearlessly. r } 7 “Come onj!” hezsaid,” coolly. “I am ready to protect¥the;mother thatfgave me birth, against you or a score more of your stamp. You.are a tyrant, a coward, and a designing knave, andI defy you!” — “You shall pay dearly for all these insults, _ my young hotspur!”’ he hissed as he turned on his heel, and’ began pacing to and fro- in front of the fire. par! eo “I fear you not, Sir Fleming,” was the cool rejoinder ; then Sir Harry returned to — his mother. ee “‘ Now, mother, tell me the cause of your faint.” Oy “TI can tell you nothing, Harry, except what I told him. A short time ago I left my tent, for I could not sleep, and came out > here into the open air. You were allasleep, — even the guide, and so I did not disturb — you till I fainted. While I stood here by the fire, my gaze involuntarily wandered to the top of yonder peak. Then, oh! such a sight J beheld! The whole summit was aglow with the glare of a blood-red bonfire, which burned on the top. At the edge, stood i, Harry—the spirit of my poor husband and your and Maudie’s father.” _ “But, mother, you have imagined all this You must have been walking in your sleep and dreamed all this absurdity.” : “It is not absurd, my son; nothing bu the truth. I was as wide awake as you now, and beheld the spectre as clearly a now behold you. ; “Oh! Harry, are you, too, losing faith in me—you too turning from me in this hour of need?” she groaned, piteous tears standing in her eyes. $5 ““No, dearest, sweetest mother, no!” he — cried, clasping her impulsively to his breast. “TI will not desert or disbelieve in you. I_ will do all a son can do, to aid in the last ~ sad rites due my poor lost father. If it be — within the power of man, I will recover the bones that have been bleaching in Death Gulch these twenty years, and inter them in the ancient vaults of Lynnwood.” ‘‘Do this, my own true son,” sobbed her — ladyship, “and I will bless you —God , bless you. I shall then be ready to i wil die.’ : The remainder of the night passed away rapidly ; Sir Fleming and his confidant, Sir Bruce, were talking, apart, to themselves, — as also were Lady Milburn and her two children. : ie = About day-dawn, old Dan returned and reported that there were no signs of India
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canyon was clear as far as he had been able to penetrate. : - When Sir Harry related to him the story told by Lady Milburn, he nodded his old Shaggy head comprehensively, and went on about preparing the breakfast, making no comment on it. After breakfast he took an axe and bade Sir Harry follow him. He led the way down the canyon for about a mile, after which he came to a halt, and pointed up- - ward into the precipitous wall of rock, on 4 the northern side of the gorge. Far up, * there was just discernible a round black _ hole in the rock, scarcely large enough to admit of the passage of a man’s body. “Ye perceive et, eh?” grinned the guide. _ . “Yes,” replied Sir Harry. it? Tis twenty feet high.” “Exactly, an’ thar’s a big fat b’ar in thet Same hoel.” __** How know you that ?” : ‘ **T see’d him, las’ nite. He war standin’ _ at ther entrance, up thar, an’ grinnin’ down at me as if he’d like ter ann’int his jaws on Te. ‘So,’ sez I, ‘my fine feller, I’m goin’ ter ’n’int miné on ye,’ an’ hyar I am reddy fer ther job.” “ Now, ye git yer ’peater reddy, an’ when I git ther ax ter choppin’ ’g’in’ ther rock, t. B’ar will show his head, up yander. You must then plug erway at him, full tilt.” _. Advancing to the ‘rock, the guide gave three or four resounding whacks upon it with the axe; then scampered back from beneath the hole. jeThe next instant there was a savage * growl, and Bruin came Jumbering to the _ mouth of his retreat, to ascertain the cause of the disturbance. . &Sir Harry fired simultaneously with his appearance, and sent a well-directed bullet Square into the left eye. “ Good!” cried Dan, as the monster came tumbling down to the ground quite dead. » _ ** Thet was a fine shot.” _ _ {The bear, which proved to be a male, was _ conveyed back to camp. Z About noon, Wild Edna was seen coming down the canyon at a leisurely gallop, and ew up at the camp-fire around which all of the occupants were sitting. _“*Good-morning,”’ she said, as she sur- veyed the group critically, while her fair hand toyed with her horse’s mane. “I hope this sunrise finds you all well and | enjoying yourselves.” a 5 “All well,” replied Sir Harry, smiling _ father grimly, “but hardly in a mood for _ enjoyment. Our situation is not conducive easure.”’ “ But what of fy OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX 17 ne Lee ae nese “Probably not. That, however, is not my fault. You should pay your toll and leave for parts more agreeable.”” “We should not submit to such an im- position—more, will not!” “Oh! of course you have a perfect right ~ to consult your own notion about that. If you value the superfluous stock of money you have, and the diamonds you wear, more than you do your life, so be it. I would not sell my life, I’m sure, for all the wealth on the continent |” “Yet you are periling it for money!” “No, [ am not. I am just as free from danger of death as can be imagined.” ‘How so?” ; “‘ Because no one will dare to insure their own death, by taking my life |” “So? Well, for instance, suppose that I were to shoot you, now, or otherwise make _ way with you, what would be the result ? ”’ “Tf I did not return to my home inside of an hour, my men are given to understand that harm has befallen me. They would mount, sweep down upon you, and hack you to pieces—tear you limb from limb. They would not even stop to question you .as to what had become of me, so great would be their rage.” “They must be a pack of demons, then!” “T hope they will never have cause to oe you and thereby prove themselves. such.’ ** Probably they never will have.” ance a little further talk, Wild Edna said : “You then still refuse to pay the toll?” *Yes—a thousand times, yes. Under- stand me, lady, that it is not the greed for gold that causes this refusal, but a sense of honour and proper regard for what is due to law and principle. As gentlemen we must refuse !’ Wild Edna then wheeled her horse, and galloped off up the ravine. The afternoon, dragged slowly on, and all except Sir Harry drowsed away, before the camp-fire. There was nothing they could do to better their situation, so they con- cluded it policy to take things as easy as circumstances Would permit. In all proba- bility, Old Avalanche had deserted them, and they had nothing to hope for from any + quarter. About an hour before sunset, all were aroused by the sound of a voice, singing a jangling snatch of outlandish song, and the tramp of horses’ feet ; then, gazing up the’ canyon toward the banditti’s retreat, it at once was perceivable that they were about’ to have a visitor—and such a visitor !
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pig OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX. _ A scrawny, vicious-looking mule was leisurely approaching camp, on whose bony back sat a long, lank an ‘lean individual, whose general appearance might have provoked a smile among the most sober erowd of spectators. He was undeniably a mixture of the old school of Yankees and Kentuckians, with a sprinkling of both Texas and Missouri in his make-up. His attire consisted of a variety of garments, ranging all. the way from the soiled checkered pantaloons and heavy brogans to the untanned wolf-skin shirt and squirrel-skin cap. A flaming yellow neck-tie encircled his throat, and a gay red-white-and-blue sash about his waist contained an enormous pair of horse- istols and a bowie of formidable dimensions. hese, with a huge musket strapped to his back, were his only weapons. He had apparently not seen the camp yet, for as he jogged along he was gazing at the mammoth walls on either side of him, while he sang, in a loud, cracked voice: “Said I ter Sally Hotchkiss, Said Sally unter me— Said Sally’s dad an’ Sally’s mam, Said all ther tribe ter me— ‘ Bill, ye ar’ a great ’un; Ter fame’s pinnerkle ye’ll rise ; Ye'll be er whoppin’ poet, An’ great at gospel truth.” “Whoa up, Prudence, thar; ahead ?.”” The latter exclamation, as the eccentric traveller caught sight of the camp. “Great cow-bells o’ Milton an’ Long- feller. Ef thar ain’t a camp rite yar, ye kin shave me wi’ yer _ toe-nails. crea thayr, strangers, hello! Howdy OLY w'ot’s mY Purty hevy, at yer sarvice. How’s yersel’, Christian ? ”’ replied old Dan. “Waal, I’m on ern average. Jedge ye hain’t got no ‘jection ef a feller war ter squat down among ye, hey?” “Nary a jection. Cum along up an’ let’s inspeck ye.’ In a moment more the camp was reached, and raising a long leg over the mule’s back the stranger stood upon the ground. “When standing he was about six feet six, and as comical a looking human as the peed ators had ever been so unlucky as to mee “By thunder, ye’re a sight, you are!” said Dan, as he finished his inspection. ““Who in Cain are ye, ole hoss ? ” “That, my Christian friend, I am for- tunately able to tell ye. I flourish under ther holt o’ Josiah William Hogg, E-s-q., at 4 yer sarvice—Hogg spelt wi’ tew G’s efye'd Jes” *s eve.” : ‘ An’ why wi’ two G’s ?.” ““ Becawse et hes bin’ ther priveledges 0’ my ancestors ter call themselves Hogg, fer wich J ain’t ter blaine. Fustly they spelt 5 it H-o-g, Hog. But, as, ef a feller’s goin’ ter be a hog at tall he may’s well go et “hull hog, or none,’ I konkluded tew adopt tew G’s ! ad “Ye’re travellin’ or goin’ sumwhar, I “Yas, I guess so. My proffessyun leeds — me everywhar. Sir, I am a poet—a de-— scendant from ther great an’ immortail Shakespeer—a secont cuzzin o’ Longfeller an’ an an’t ter Byron o’ Linn; I am Josiah Billiam ,Hogg,. fi i at yer sarvice :— Hogg wi’ two G CHAPTER IX THE POET 0’ THE NOR’WEST—GONE ! A GENERAL laugh followed, and Josiah © Hogg was forthwith made welcome to the = camp. : et Much *quainted "bout these diggin’s ? ”” asked old Dan, as he helped the visitor to a huge slice of bear-meat. ee “ Waal, y-a-s ;—’bout on an average. Ye recommember this "ere division 0’ ther oa erquaitor | ar’ renowned fur ets poetry o sal grace an’ motion, so I’ve tuk more’n” ~ ordinary ary pains ter cultyvate a thorough knowledge | o et. Every darn thing ye see or meet wi’, out hayr is chock-full 0’ oetry. “a Now, fur instance, hayr’s these big heep o’ rock, vulgarly called mounting. Thar’s sumthin’ sublime an’ cow-inspiring erbout thet upheevyal o’ granite an’ lavy. As = Milton sed tew old Jonas Snatcher, w’en they Sa Y 2 war killin’ hogs ;—not H-0-g-g-8—but H-o-g-s; as Milton war sayin’ : “Friend, thee, o’ Jonas Snatcher Wilt thou becum a watcher ? fet behold thet grand finale 1 her poetry in thet porker’s tail.” — “Whar kin ye beet thet, now? Jist onsarve ther path-hoss in thet rine.’ ; “ Very original poetry, that,” said Sir Bruce; “* but as you have favoured us with quite enough for the present, suppose you tell us how you got past the banditti.” “The bandiiter ? S re Exactly ; ; the outlaws that infest this canyon.’ “Ye wanter kno’ ef I kim thr’w’ ther s canyon an’ see’d a banditter?” “Yes; go eat i
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‘> ‘® retreat. “Waal, I didn’t see a livin’ banditter— shave me wi’ a barn-shovel ef I did!” “Impossible! You could not have come through the canyon without having been stopped by them.” I didn’t cum thr’u’.” ** Didn’t come through ? “*T slid over!” “* How do you make that out ?” “Why, I an’ Prudence Cordelia thar rid down on a streak o’ greased lightnin’.”” Sir Bruce turned away in disgust. He had exhausted his patience and failed with aman, who, it was plain to see, was ‘‘no- How then?” body’s fool.”” It began to be pretty evident that the visitor was not so “ green” as he appeared. Accordingly, no more efforts were made to pry into his secrets, all trusting that he would explain whenever he felt in the right - mood. The night came on and during the evening Josiah kept the camp in a continual titter with his horrible efforts at poetry, he quoting bad Shakespeare and Longfellow by the yard. The night passed without incident, and morning dawned once more. Josiah was up with the camp, and ap- peared perfectly at home. Breakfast had been done away with and all were lounging around on the grass, when a horseman was seen coming down the canyon from the direction of the bandits’ A single glance sufficed to show that it was not Wild Edna, but instead, a handsome young fellow of two-and-twenty who resembled her somewhat. As he rode up he doffed his hat politely. ““ You come in the place of Wild Edna, if I mistake not,” said Sir Harry, returning the salutation, coldly. ““T do, senor. The Girl Bandit being a trifle indisposed this morning, she com- Missioned me to wait upon you in her absence, to learn if you have changed your decision in regard to the toll.” “Then you can return to your Girl mistress, and tell her that we. shall never come to her terms!” “As you like, senor. To-morrow you will receive the last visit from us, and if you lose that chance of acceding to our terms, your fate will be sealed. On the eleventh day, then, after to-morrow—which will be the thirty-first of this month—the flood- : ance of Lake Tico will be raised, and a luge of water will sweep through Devil If you are in it, your fate you Canyon. We shall not hold our- can well imagine. selves responsible for your death, having given you these chances for life and liberty, and ten days to effect your escape in.” “Your name—-what is it?” said Sir Fleming, who had ordered Dan and Sir Bruce to cover the outlaw with their rifles. ““ Nevada Sam, at your service.” ““Very well, Nevada Sam; please con- sider yourself my prisoner. Dismount, and deliver up your arms.” Nevada Sam smiled, but to obey. “You are a fool,’’ he said coolly. should you offer to molest her, on her former visit 2?” ** Your sister?” “My sister, or Wild Edna, as youknow her.” “Yes, I believe she threatened us with some nonsense about what might happen.” “Very well. I reply likewise. Offer me the least hindrance and you will hasten your own death !” “What! do you dare to threaten me? Have a care, sir knave! She was a woman but you are mot, and I do not fear to shoot you. Dismount!” “JT will dismount, if you so order,” re- plied Nevada Sam, grimly; “* but, recollect that if I do, your death is a certainty within an hour.” Sir Fleming quailed a trifle, and hesitated. “You are at perfect liberty to go and . come as you please!” cried Sir Harry, at this juncture. ‘‘ That man does not com- mand, here; consequently he has no authority, where I hold sway.” “Thanks,” smiled the bandit. ‘“‘ You are wise, I see. No good could possibly come of holding me a prisoner.” Then, nodding to the men and cee his hat courteously to the ladies—particularly to Lady Maude, he wheeled his horse and dashed away. During the remainder of the day, Sir 19° did not. offer _ “Did not my sister tell you what would befall you Fleming and his ally kept aloof from the ~ rest, and whiled away their time in con- versation and smoking. Night fell dark and threatening. Masses of black clouds filled the heavens, and the atmosphere was decidedly rainy. ? After the evening meal had been pre- pared and dispatched, Josiah Hogg volun- teered to stand guard, and so leaving him to his lonely vigil, the rest “‘ turned in,” to sleep. About an hour before midnight the storm \burst down in all its fury, and so great was its volume that the bottom of the canyon was quite submerged, thereby precluding the possibility of repose. ladies were bundled in the blankets, and all stood and took the pelting storm with good, bad or indifferent grace, as the case might be. At last the rain ceased, as quickly as it had come, and the bottom became Jes Therefore, the
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- submerged by degrees, until the site of the old camp was once more above water. But so intense was the gloom that one - could not see a finger before an eye, and it _ was only by a sense of groping, and the interchange of words, that the party could be collected. And, as there was no dry _ wood to be had, it looked very probable - that there would be no fire, or light on the subject till prea “Are all here?” called Sir Henry, with a shiver, as he endeavoured to peer around. “<I guess so,’’ replied the familiar tones of Coggswell—‘‘I am, at least. Mought call ther roll, ter make sure.” “Good. I will do so, Sir Fleming and Bruce, are you here?” “Ay! ay!” replied the two noblemen. “And Ladies Milburn ? ” “I am here,” replied Lady Milburn ; ‘but I do not see Maude.” “Lady Maude and Josiah Hogg!” called Sir Harry. There was no reply. repeated, but no answer. A hurried and close search was then made, but without result. One thing was only too plain—lady Matde and the poet were gone! Again the call was CHAPTER X A DARING ACT We left Old Avalanche out in the open savanna, after his just having discovered the fact that he was completely surrounded by the howling Sioux. Had they seen him ? Yes, very probably, or else why were Shey closing in around him? Faintly throug the ‘pat of inky darkness he could distin- the shadowy outlines of approaching . aot. and by them, and the muffled ~ sounds of their hoofs, he knew they were all bearing toward one centre, and that centre was just where he was now standing. ‘ Something ceinaly must be done. The "Savages were approaching nearer and nearer, ~ and in a moment would be upon To await their coming and give ‘himself up would be but the initial step toward a ~ horrible death. “Tl spill a trifle more o’ Injun blood, _fu’st, ennyhow,” was the final conclusion, ' and gripping his knife he threw himself flat upon the ground. Florence did likewise, and the two lay as _ silent and motionless as death. At last there was a shout, and the Indians drew rein in a small circle. Avalanche and ; prey were lying inside of that circle ! J, dr ae the grass. was so tall tha they were screened from view. 5 “The white dog has escaped!” sang ; out the gruff voice of Idaho Bill. “The Sioux — are on a wrong scent.” “The iy chief errs,” replied Rain-in-the- Face, o commanded a rtion, of the — party. ““Pale squaw come dis way.” ‘Ugh!’ cried Scarlet Blade, a youn; ung chief, cee had but recently won his sp of chieftaincy. “Me see um here—stand — erect—look at Sioux—den he drop!” “But he mot here!” grunted “Crazy — Horse. ‘‘ Scarlet Place. young brave. He — no wise like Crazy Horse.” ss “Scarlet Blade lool 1” cried the eager chief, and springing from his saddle he com- — menced beating about in the grass, wiggling about on his hands and knees. | “ If white — og here, Scarlet Blade find um.’ ; m around the circle he oe and on : account of the darkness, the mounted — savages were unable to keep track of his ~ whereabouts, except when they would — catch a sound to guide them. Presently it was inferred by the deep © silence that Scarlet Blade had halted in his search. “Hey t 2 shouted Idaho Bill, with an oath, “‘ w’ar ye goin’, ye red imp ? w’at ar’ ye at so long ?.” “What difference it make to you 2 leered Crazy Horse. “‘ Let Injun alone.” 2 “Ugh!” cried the rough voice of Scarlet — Blade, from the centre of the circle, ‘ cae keep much still. Scarlet Blade found trail, Injun sit still on hoss. Scarlet Blade trail = white dog under hosses belly !” A moment later Crazy cue was con- scious that somebody or something wi near him, and he made a vain attempt to peer down into the grass. ““Who dar?” he demanded, supiconly. orse of Scarlet Blade. “ White dog no dar,” said the disa amet fs voice of the chief. “ He gone, an’ Scarlet Blade git up!” A derisive yell went up from the Indians in general. Scarlet Blade is a dog!” cried Crazy Horse, with contempt. Then turning his saddle, he shouted, in Sioux : “Away! away! all of you, except hundred, who will go to the enh ee ge ee where the others are! Was us! Le Scatter ! aa f me
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_. The order was instantly obeyed. All of the swarming gang, except Crazy Horse, immediately spread out over the prairie, and began to scour about for the escaped Annihilator. The chief then set out for the entrance to Devil’s Canyon, followed by his detachment _ of braves. Under the command of Idaho Bill, the Savanna was thoroughly searched for a distance of four or five miles, in either direction; but not a trace of the much- é d and more hated Avalanche was to - He had undoubtedly made good his escape into the mountains. At last the blare of a trumpet caused the “Savages to relinquish the search, and turn back toward camp. Idaho Bill was among the last to do this, and as he turned his animal’s head, he saw the horse of Scarlet Blade passing to his right. __ ** Hallo, there!’ he shouted, ‘‘is that you, Injun imp?” __ “Ugh dis Scarlet Blade,” was the reply, and ‘thehorse came forward. “ YouIdaho Bill?” “Yas, et’s me. Cum along, ef you’re a-goin’ inter camp.” - The outlaw gave his horse the spur, and “Was about dashing away, when a lasso, one nd of which was secured to Scarlet Blade’s Saddle, fell gracefully around him and drew aut, thereby pinioning his arms to his side. The next instant he was jerked from his addle, and no sooner did he reach the ‘ound than the figure of Old Avalanche, the ‘wnihilatoy, was upon him. Scarlet Blade had perished in that circle arch, and the alert scout had donned his hhead-dress, transferred some of the Sioux’s Paint to his own face, and took possession _ of the horse. It was a daring act, but his desperate position had inspired him. with the deter- - tMination to accomplish it, and he had Succeeded admirably. - Thither and hither over the savanna he ad dashed among the other savages, nting for himself, as it were, and, when- er he could obtain a suitable chance, dr OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX takes tew an’ sometimes three, tew make a barg’in. Hey, Iderho Billiam, ain’t them _ yer idees? Don’t ’preeshate ther virtues 0” ther grate, roarin’ Norweegjan Avalanche ? ”” A groan from Idaho Bill was the only answer. He had sufficient cause to dread the Avalanche—to fear his vengeance. ¢ Old Avalanche headed toward the north- west, and struck off into a gallop, carrying” his prisoner with him. For hours he rode on, and at the blush of dawn, drew rein’ close in under cover of the towering moun- tains, at a spot where shade, water and grass were plenty. The outlaw was placed upon the ground, and tethering his horse out to graze, he set about finding food for himself and prisoner. Breakfast was dispatched in silence, and when he had finished, Old Avalanche climbed up into a neighbouring crag to take observations. As near as he could judge, he was sometting more than ten miles distant from the Sioux camp, and by the clear light of the morning that had now fully dawned, he could see that the camp was astir. Smoke from many camp-fires rose in spiral columns toward the smiling blue skies, and a general activity and bustle were noticeable. A score or more of horses were being led from the corral, and this told the scout that the Indians, or at least a portion of them, were going on the trail. That trail was his own, and as he had taken no pains to hide it, he was aware how easy it would be for them to hunt him down. The scout turned and clambered down toward his own camp. As he did so his ears were greeted with hoarse and frightened yells, evidently _ coming from Idaho Bill (the gag had been = removed during the meal). This quickened his movements, and in a few moments he had gained the level ground, close to the camp. Here his eyes fell upon a scene both unexpected and ludicrous. 2 During the Annihilator’s absence the prisoner evidently had been trying to climb to the back of the horse and make his’ escape, but had been surprised by an unex- pected enemy. This was no other than the scout’s wonderful ‘“‘j’int,” Florence - Nightingale, who had opportunely arrived, and attacked the outlaw. ‘ At the time.of the Annihilator’s entree upon the scene, the goat had succeeded in downing his victim, and was bunting him without mercy, rolling him over and over at every lunge, while Idaho Bill’s shrieks of pain and rage made the welkin ring. 3 Old Avalanche gave a yell of ecstasy and sat down to watch the sport. ae
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At last, however, he perceived that the outlaw was nearly insensible, and with a whistle he called the vicious billy from his work of torture. *“Thet’ll do fer the present, boyee,” was the*Annihilator’s ejaculation as he patted thefanimal, affectionately. “Ve stud ter yer}work nobly an’ ar’ desarvin’ o’ thanks fer et, I think,‘tho’ Pr ‘Il tend tew Mr. Idaho Billiam, myself, now.’ With these words he rose to his feet, drew his}knife, and approached the outlaw, who lay. groaning upon the grass. Assisting him to a sitting position, he seated himself directly opposite, and the two implacable foes eyed each other for some time, with belligerent glances. Old Avalanche was the first to speak. “Young man,” he said, slowly whetting the blood-stained knife in the palm of his hand, ‘‘hev ye got enny reckelexyun 0’ evyer Bevin: seen me erfore this peeriodical minnit ? grim smile hovered about the des- perado’s lips. “JY reckon,” was the laconic reply ; ‘*tho’ I’ve not seen ye for years. I were a young pappoose when you were first brought to the Sioux camp. So was Crazy Horse. We cut your ears off at the torture-stake.” “True,” replied Old Avalanche, a twinge of pain visible on his wrinkled brow— “shaved ’em off clusser nor ther beerd frum a boyee’s face. But, the best o’ et all, Bill, ye ken’t brag thet I even flinched.” “No, old man, ye stud et like a lamb, an’ Til guv ye credit fur it.” “What became of them flappers ?”’ asked the Annihilator, huskily. “Don’t kno’ what Crazy Horse done wi’ his’n. I wore mine fur a charm, on a string 0 beeds, till it got dried up, like a piece of pasteboard, when I throwed it away.” Tears stood in the old scout’s eyes. “Too bad,” he sighed. ‘‘ I war in hopes 0’ gettin’ them poor souse back sumtime or other, an’ gettin’ ’em plastered on erg’in. Too bad.” lected himself, he began to sharpen his knife faster upon his moccasin- top. Idaho Bill watched him ‘somewhat nervously, growing a shade paler each moment. meaning in this. It meant death to him ! After a while the edge of the weapon seemed satisfactorily sharp to the touch of - the Avalanche’s thumb, for he said : “*Do ye kno’ ther border code, Billiam ? ” he. asked, slowly. a know,” was the shuddering reply, “ eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIO Then, as if he suddenly recol- - He could not misunderstand the’ “ Ves, thet’s it—eye fer eye an’ tooth fer tooth. But thet hain’t the code I shell ’dopt tew this sarcumstance. This "ll be an ear fer an ear, and a knife fer a throat!” The outlaw grew very white, and per-— spiration broke out all over his face. ‘“* Will ye show no mercy ? ” he gasped. “Nol ye didn't show me none. As ye — did, so’ll I do.” “But hold! do ye that'll save my life ? to die—I am not prepared.” The Annihilator shook his head. - “JT jedge not. Nuthin’ short 0’ yet 3 life will do me!” * Idaho Bill kia desperate. ¢ The light that burned in his enemy’s eye was stern and cold. “TVllmakea proposal, ” he at last managed E: togasp. ‘‘ Take me ears and spare my life 1”” Old Avalanche reflected. € “Tl make ye an offer,’’ he said slowly, az hee yer life depends upon yer decision.” ae on.’ “Wal, VIL cut off both of yer ears, and then, ef you'll show me the old Indian path that leads thr’w’ these mountains, or over ’em ruther, tew ther Flat Butte peak, an’ tew ther Death Gulch, ye shall hev ra y an’ yer decapitated ears.’ Idaho Bill groaned and shuddered. “Go on!” he gasped, white as a corpse ; 3; ““Tagree. Take my ears and have it over.” “You know the over-mountain way?” Lad Ay, ay! 1 ” ’, ‘od And will go thr’u’ wi’ yer jab wi vout : attemptin’ no shanannigan !” } ““-Ves—-I swear it!” Without further words, in less time than a takes to tell it, the poor wretch was deprived — of his ears, which were chucked into the avenger’s pocket. He has said, since the transaction of that terrible deed, that he nightly dreams of — ears, and could not be hired to attempt” . Is there no service I kin I do not want — another like amputation. : As for Idaho Bill, he fainted ; but while he was insensible, ‘Old Avalanche dressed the wounds, and an hour later the two earless men were on their journey over the vast mountain wilderness. CHAPTER XI THE THIRD DAY WHERE were Josiah and Lady Maude? was the question that agitated the minds of our friends as they made the alarming dis covery that they were gone. Had overflowing of the waters swept them a
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No, that could not be, for the bottom of he canyon had not been covered to more han a knee’s depth, and no person would have been carried away in such an insigni- ficant flood. - “ P’raps ther poet keerried off ther gal,” suggested old Dan, as they all stood in the Stygian gloom, undecided what to do. “Yes ; but whither has he gone ? ” cried Sir Harry, angrily. “Oh! the dastard, the traitor! How my fingers ache to get at his throat!” ““T opine he’s gone back ther way he kim, pervidin’ he ain’t gone t’other way. My ijee ar that he’s interlinked with the _ canyon bandits.” “Good heaven! you don’t mean to say that my darling sister is in the power of those heartless wretches ? ” ~ .“ Wouldn’t want fer ter sw’ar tew et: - but Pm thinkin’ et smells strongly thet “ Look to the horses, quick, and see if the mule is gone, then! That will tell the _ Story.” oe Dan obeyed, with alacrity, and soon _ returned with the intelligence that the mule and Lady Maude’s horse were both missing. “Oh! God!” groaned Lady Milburn, who had all the time been weeping violently, “T shall never see my child again.” “Yas ye will, mum,” replied the guide, geting his hat, respectfully. “Take old an Coggswell’s word fer it Lady Maude will not be harmed, and ’Il be restored tew yew afore long. I’ve heerd consider’ble of this Girl Bandit, an’ believe her tew be bout as fair-tew-average sort o’ feline as - evyer didn’t chaw terbaccer. She won’t hurt yer darter, an’, afore the big flood comes, I shouldn’t wonder much ef ye war hawked away out o’ danger jes’ like Lady Maude was!” Ys. of he replied, with a chuckle—‘‘not us, but the ladies—Lady ilburn and her daughter!” “Be it so, then. If they only safely cape, I shall not so much hate to meet worst.” forning dawned over the giant peaks of he mountains, and as soon as it was light enough for his purpose the guide built a fire out of a few partly-dried limbs and cones hich had been washed down from the ‘Mountains, and then easily found the tracks of the two horses in the clayey refuse, on 1 the poet had borne away his prize. ~ OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX — ae eee ‘“« Thar kin be no doubt o’ the case now,” he said to Sir Harry. ‘‘ The bandits hev got the gal, et’s purty probable.” Breakfast was dispatched, and about an — hour later a body of masked horsemen’ were seen coming leisurely down the canyon. They were the banditti with Wild Edna at their head. me Sir Harry rose from his seat and doffed his hat politely, to which Wild Edna re- sponded with a smile. : “You have come, I perceive, for the third time,” said Sir Harry, “to request the toll payment.” “Exactly! This is the last call. You now still have a chance for life and liberty, and if you do not accept, your fate be on your own heads. Would to God I could — aid you, or avert the impending doom, but ~ Icannot. Did any of you see an apparition on the top of the Flgt Butte at midnight two nights ago? ” “JT did! Idid!” screamed Lady Milburn, — rushing forward and clasping the Girl — Bandit’s jewelled hand, “I saw it. Oh! girl, tell me—tell me for the love of God, was that an apparition, or was it human?” “Tell me, tell me!” she continued, as Wild Edna hesitated, “‘ for I must know !” “T can tell you nothing, my lady,” was the pitying reply. “‘I am bound by a solemn pledge to reveal nothing beyond the limits of our band. The spectre on the Flat Butte will appear again, just before daybreak of the eleventh day from now, as you saw him, my lady. His appearance ~ will be the signal to raise the flood-gates of the terrible Lake Tico. Fear not, how- ever, dear Jady, for you will not be allowed to perish with the rest!” me oo my daughter—Maude, where is she?” i “ Safe and sound, and enjoying a refresh- ing sleep when we left her. It was out of pity that I had her spirited away. You will soon follow her!” 2 “Girl!” cried Sir Fleming, advancing, “are you a perfect demoness? Will you see us men, who have never raised a finger to harm you, murdered outright ? ” Wild Edna flushed, angrily. ‘ “TJ will see nothing of the kind. As I have told you once before, I cannot avert the flood. I have tried to persuade you to- pay the toll, but you have refused. Here my work ceases. On my return to the bandit retreat, I will be cast into a strong. cell, by the orders of another, and confined - there one month for my failure in extortin; the toll from you.” iy “Who is this other ?—your gay Nevad: Sam?”
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les No—indeed, no. He is my brother, and as true and brave a man as any of you. Like myself, he too will be confined, and suffer on your account !” She spoke so bitterly that Sir Harry’s pee uble heart at once went out toward “Tam sorry for you,” he said, walking up to her animal’s side—‘‘really, truly sorry, but J do not care to yield. Maybe when I see Lake Tico’s waters bowling down upon me, I’ll hasten to change my mind!” And he made an attempt to laugh gaily. It will be too late, then!” said Wild- Edna, sadly 3 “once the flood-gates are raised, not ng possessed of life, except trees can live in Devil’s Canyon.” “Well, if this be the case, I can consider myself a doomed man.’ “You refuse to pay the toll, then?” 1 do, most emphatically !” * Alas! then you are indeed doomed!” She shot him a glance from her beautiful ‘eyes—a glance in which was mingled pity, sorrow and—what ? The fast-beating heart of the young nobleman told him it was more than the light and glow and interest of a common ' nature—and his own face flushed at the thought—did this beauteous vision of the wilderness love him? It was a thought that filled him with expressionless joy. The Girl Bandit, however, quickly inter- rupted his suddenly conceived hopes. ; Will the others pay their, toll, and be allowed to go on in freedom ? - “T think not,” replied Sit Fleming, who had been conferring with Sir Bruce; “ or, at least, not at present. If. we decide to pay the toll for ourselves, will it not be enough to advance to your guards, and tell them so when they can inform you ? ” - “JT don’t know,” replied Wild Edna, doubtfully. “However, “I can soon ascertain.” She turned to one of the masked men beside her, and said a few words in an - undertone. He then turned his horse’s - head and galloped rapidly off up the canyon. ~ “T can soon answer your question, sir,” _ said the maiden to Sir Fleming; “in the meantime do not let us hinder you, or deter ; you from your breakfast.” “We ate an hour ago,” answered Harry, ‘and your presence is most agreeable, under the very embarrassing circumstances under ~ which we meet.” - ®iShe drooped her eyes, and a blush stole over her purely chiselled features—a blush more of pleasure than confusion. OLD AVALANCHES FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX . ““ Were she dead, you accursed plotter, her a) “You must not flatter,’ she said. am not used to it—I am not used to oe great world you live in, or its people. — should not listen to praises from those who. could never be aught to me.’ Presently the masked courier returned, and spoke a few words in Spanish to Wild “a eae, ell,” sh d; th t % ** Very well,” she said ; then turning Od Sir Harry, she continued. ‘It will be all” - right. If any of you conclude to pay bok toll, between now and three o’clock of th eleventh morning, you can so notify a guard, who will be posted a few Hondeen se yards up the gorge. He will be authorized to receive six thousand dollars from you, | and furnish you with an escort to the outer world!” “* Very. well, I will tell them !” “Now, good- bye, sir, and good luck.” The next moment the horses’ heads were turned, and the banditti dashed away. CHAPTER XII A NEW ENEMY Two days and a like number of toons S nights passed, and still matters in Sel’ : Canyon remained unchanged. Escape was impossible, for old Dan. had ascertained that the savages had taken — possession of the eastern termination of the canyon, although they seemed in no Dacey to advance. = “T think,” said Sir Harry to Sir Fleming, on the third morning, as all sat around the — camp-fire—-“‘I think that between us we had better pay the toll, at least for, mother, — and restore her, along with Lady Maude, to— freedom. It will not be right to let her suffer death just because wwe are obstinate: and refuse to pay the toll.” Sir Fleming sneered. “I quite disagree with you,” he replied ri sarcastically. ‘I am of the Spiniae that self-preservation is first to be considered, before looking to the welfare of others. Lady Hetty will probably be released yo the banditti; but, even if she is no’ cannot see that her life is so precio valuable to me.” : “To you—no !” cried Sir Harry, ste “ rich estate of Ferndale, you, as a husband, could claim. Were I and Lady Maude dead, all of the old family possessions the great name of Arriscourt would be — yours. Think not, Sir Fleming Milburn, that I am blind to your schen 3 2 machinations. Tecan ad ou like a bo
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» to America to explore this wilderness. By some means unknown to us, you, an out- _ lawed relation, joined him in his expedition, and travelled with him until his death— from the top of yonder peak. - “No sooner was he dead than you re- turned to England with the sad intelligence, bearing papers purporting to have been given you by Sir Henry, previous to his death, which bade my poor mother marry you, in case my father should die during any of his dangerous adventures. You _ had been a suitor for Lady Hetty’s hand, previous to her union with my father, and, under the circumstances, she felt it her duty to obey the mandate of one whom death had overtaken in a remote land. _ “So, after making you promise to bring her here to this wild country, that she might _ at least recover the bones of Sir Henry, she ES wedded you—wedded a very demon. . This Was many years ago, when Maude and I were both children. Since then you have been. a very cruel master to us, and it is mly since I attained my majority, that you could be induced to visit this place, accord- ing to your promise.” b “This 7s not the Flat Butte in question !” - growled Sir Fleming, wincing perceptibly under the young man’s accusing gaze. - “You het” cried Sir Harry, hotly. _ “This ts the place where my father ended _ his®days; or—more properly, perhaps— where his life was ended |” The tone as well as the words of the speaker caused Sir Fleming to grow a trifle pale, and exchange a glance with Sir Bruce. _ “We will not continue this conversation, _ at present,” he said, flushing with rage, as __ he rose and sauntered away. The morning dragged away, and a hot ~noon-day sun at last shone straight down © into Devil’s Canyon. It was about this time that old Dan Coggswell came striding hurriedly into camp. _ He had gone down the canyon, a few hours e revious, in quest of game, and had promised _ to be back by sunset. Consequently, his =e ly return warned Sir Harry that some- _ thing of importance had occurred. ‘What is it?” he asked, anxiously. ‘Why are you back so soon?” “1 jedge thar’s need on’t,” replied the guide, with a dubious shake of his head. a “Ef we don’t ketch Jessie o’ ther shirt afore this time, ter-morrer I’m er hod- _. Carrier.” “Indeed! What is wrong ? ” __ “ Injuns—copperous-cullor’d Soos. Thar’s e’n. a thousan’ cummin’ up this derec- » to pay us their respecks ! “ cae “Years ago, my father, Sir Henry, came ~ “Good Heaven! Is this true? Then we must prepare to fight them !”” “I rather guess so, ef we’ve ther least inclinashun ter keepin’ our kerpillery persesshuns. Go wake up ther uther fellers, an’ git yer pop-guns in reddyness fer use. I’m goin’ ter thro’ up er obstickel tew their progress.” Sir Harry immediately hurried off, while the guide proceeded to perform his part of the work. cf ; Among the effects in the outfit were a ~ pick and shovel, articles which every wise western traveller is not without. Taking these he proceeded a short dis- trance down the canyon, to a spot where the bottom was formed of soft sandy soil. Here he paused, and began to throw up a barricade of dirt from wall to wall, occasion- ally dislodging large flakes of rock from above and adding this to the pile. For hours the guide laboured steadily, and at last, he paused and surveyed his completed work. It was an admirable piece of work, and in case of attack, would,~ while it concealed the defenders, prevent a ~~ rush from the enemy. che The barricade done, Dan proceeded to call Sir Harry. As soon as the baronet beheld the result of the afternoon’s labour, he uttered an exclamation of surprise. 43 “Just the thing!” he exclaimed, as he~ carefully examined the defence. ‘‘ With our repeating rifles and revolvers, I am confident we can hold our own for awhile, at least.” : i “Yes,” replied Dan, grimly. “I specu- — late we kin guy ’em a purty big rub, ef — ther Lord’s willin’. Now, then, ye git back tew camp, an’ snatch w’at grub an’ — sleep ye kin, an’ I'll stand guard. Ef ye heer me screech ‘Soos,’ ye jist kim a- hoopin’ down hayr, fer thar’ll be need o” ye. — Bring yer fellers, too!” Bes: There was no call from Coggswell until — about midnight, when he skulked into camp _ and aroused the sleepers with the news that — the reds were coming. Leaving Lady _ Milburn alone, the four men crept down to _ the barricade, rifles in hand, and posted themselves on the defensive. ; “TJ do not see any savages!” said Sir Harr Pe over into the canyon beyond, ead doubt if—thtinder 1” ; An arrow grazed the young nobleman’s cheek, as he was speaking. ; “Ye'll feel em, ef ye don’ see ’em!” said old Dan with a grim chuckle. Pie’ A motley gang of savages could now be — distinguished, ough the pall of inky darkness, as theyZcame skurrying silently toward the_barricade. ane a
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20 “ Five—once, two, an’ three times!” hissed the guide, and four rifles cracked, sending sharp echoes up the mountain-side, while deadly missiles went hurtling into the Sioux ranks, causing shrieks’ of pain and death. Again and again the terrible repeating rifles belched forth streams of lurid flame, and, taken wholly by surprise the savages turned and fled. “Quick! Now’s yer time ter reload!” cried old Dan, and the discharged cartridges were quickly replaced with fresh ones. But no red-skins put in an appearance again that night, although all of the de- fenders watched till the sunlight kissed the peak of Flat Butte. - Sir Harry volunteered to stand guard while the others went inside camp and pre- aes breakfast. So Dan, accompanied by ir Fleming and Sir Bruce, set out, leaving ‘the young nobleman alone. Arriving at camp, it was discovered that Lady Milburn and one of the horses were missing. No fears were entertained by the guide, how- ever, for he rightly guessed that the banditti had come to remove her to a place of safety. That day passed, but no further demon- stration was made we the red-skins; in fact, not a glimpse of them had been gained. As soon as night fell over the mountain, Sir Bruce was posted on sentinel duty, to be relieved by Sir Fleming at midnight. Another—the fifth—morning dawned, and still no sign | of the Sioux. “Tt’s cuvv’us,” said Coggswell, as he and Sir Harry stood at the barricade—‘ darned curi’us. I never knew’d Soos ter act up in this shape afore.” “Tt does seem strange. From what little I have heard and seen, these red rascals are not generally so tardy in attacking a foe,” replied Sir Harry. * Right. But it jedge I’ve snatched their ijee this time. Knowin’ we're sum on shootin’, an’ not keerin’ tew lose enny more braves ‘than possybul, they’re goin’ ter clim’ us. “What do you mean?” “Why, ye see sum o’ ’em hes gone over the mountings, an’ ’Il sooner or later git down inter ther canyon atween us an’ ther banditters, arter w ich both divisions “ll give us a nudge frum each eend, at ther same time.” “You believe that is their plan ? ed “J don’ make much doubt o’ et.” That night the savages in the canyon made a rush down on the barricade in large numbers, butgDan was {quitefready for them, and the incessant and deadly fire from the four repeating rifles made such “OLD AVALANCHES: FIGHT WITH THE SIOU fearful havoc, that the red-skins again 2 retreated, much decreased in numbers, and = howling with rage. The succeeding day passed, and the next)” and the next, and still the next, without — further developments. be saved from the flood. . Sir Harry and old Dan Coggswell were 4 left to themselves, and their doom ! ; “No ; I will not yield in this, the eleventh — hour!” the young baronet had said, with — wonderful firmness, when questioned by the others, previous to their departure “Dan can go if he wishes, and I will fui him with the requisite toll money.’ “No!” cried the old guide, “ not much, © Mary Ann, ef I kno’ myself. I ain * ethers coon as will desart a feller in a fix.” So the two had remained, and it was with wildly-beating hearts that they watched the night wear away, toward another day- ; < dawn. 3 ‘a At last Sir Harry exclaimed, as he pointed — s toward the summit of the Flat Butte, where that terrible spectre had suddenly appeared —the same awful sight which Lady Milburn had seen : ““Look out for it, now, Dan, and say your prayers, for that signal has opened the — geeks gates of Lake Tico. Good-bye, old oy |” CHAPTER XIII WILD EDNA’S RIDE Far up among the mighty, hoary crags. beyond Flat Butte, nestling in a deep and — gloomy basin, lay the cold green waters o Lake Tico—or Lake Airy, as it has sine been christened. A silent, uninviting sheet of water, suspended, as it were, midway between heaven and earth, and formed ina _ natural square, each corner being a towering peak, and the sides or shores forming a brink to an awful abyss that yawned on every side. ws One side of this remarkable mountain- ES lake overlooked Devil’s Canyon, and the other that awful abyss into which Sir — Henry had been hurled, years before. The — lake shore was accessible from three points. but the hand of*man, not of nature, sae made it so. On™the north-eastern side, a long bridge of Indian network stretched — across a yawning precipice, and ®made | 2 connection with a lower Beas which in
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itself connected with other gigantic neigh- bours that formed the chain stretching | away off to the great green savannas to the mecast.. -% Directly east from the lake shore was a “similar bridge, and this connected with the towering Flat Butte at its summit. The third mode of reaching the shore was by means of a spiral stairway which, commenc- ing at the southern corner, wound its way gradually up the mighty mountain, until, when reaching a level with the lake, it had made a complete circle around the grey deposit of rock. This, too, had been the handiwork of man, as was readily evidenced by the unmistakable axe-marks and blasting The banks of the lake were very Marrow. -. At the side overlooking Devil’s Canyon were the “ flood-gates”’ mentioned. They had been constructed by the banditti, and “when lifted from their rocky fastenings, the waters of the lake could easily pour out in a mammoth volume into the gorge below. These gates were raised out of a ‘groove in the rock by a great wooden lever, _ which could only be moved by a score of Men, and were so deeply sunken that the ‘Whole of Lake Tico’s waters could be _ plunged into the canyonin ten seconds’ time. The retreat of the banditti was in such a Osition that the flood could not reach it, ough dashing directly by. lalf a mile above the base of the Flat utte, where the cdmp of our party had been, was a break in the mighty wall of the At this post two armed sentinels ‘ays stood. The break in question was a round black hole in the wall, somewhat Tesembling a sewer outlet, only not so ‘Small. “A horse could easily pass through $ aperture with a person sitting erect on back. This natural tunnel ran in a hi-curving and zig-zag shape for perhaps | quarter of a mile, descending a trifling tade, when it made an abrupt turn in the owels of the mountains, and proceeded Gue east, where before its course lay in a North by easterly direction. At the place Where occurred the break in the walls of the canyon, the little stream which ran Gown its entire length had its source, the flood-gates of Lake Tico being directly erhead, and emitting a constant wastage Water, through crevices in the rock. 'y followihg the tunnel beyond the turn, another quarter of a mile, you debouched fom Stygian darkness into semi-light. OU Were at the bottom of Death’s Gulch, d on a level with the Great Lakes. is a natural garden ofjparadise—an a vast mountain desert. Two acres area, in all, fenced in by those majestic rocky monsters, the mountains; green ~ with velvety grass and redolent with per- fume from a hundred flowering trees and pleats: it is a most astonishing and wondrous sight. Water from a cascade a thousand feet above is transformed into a mist that trickles down the rugged wall, until it gathers into a little rivulet in the rocky yet grassy bottom. : In the centre of the gulch is a large, barn-like edifice, thatched with fire-branches and sod, and built of rock. Around this, numerous beds of wild flowers are in a state of careful cultivation; here and there are scattered rude settees on which men are reclining, indolently, and smoking. Although the hour ae midnight, they are thus engaged, for there is work for them to do, presently, and they would be awake. The gulch is lit dimly with flaring torches, thrust in neighbouring crevices. Soon a door of the edifice is opened, and four armed men issue forth, followed by a tall, ghastly figure, clad in a trailing robe of snowy white. His hair sweeps his waist; as does. an immense beard of silvery hue, and in his eyes burns the unnatural fire of insanity—a fire that might cause any brave man to tremble. As he stepped from the door a figure attempted to follow, but he hurled her back with an enraged shriek. ““Avaunt! accursed fool! Dost think to evade my vigilance? Back with you, or by the Royal Sceptre, I’ll cast thee into the dungeon, from whence thy pleadings for liberty caused me to fetch you.” . “Oh! my father!” cried the Girl Bandit, wildly, piteously, “‘do not open the terrible flood-gates to-night. Postpone the awful crime until to-morrow, or next day, that those two deserted men may have a chance more for life!” “Hal ha! ha! ha!” yelled the other, shrieking and gesticulating with mad laughter. “Ha! ha! You would have me spare my sacrificial offerings to the Royal Mountain God and his Divine Powers. Ha! ha! thou art a fool, Zerama. Back, before I curse thee!” He raised his baton as if to strike, but with a frightened cry she darted back into the cabin. Summoning all of those men who were lounging on the settees, by a wave of his hand, the man cried in tones of anger : “Awake, you. drowsy fools, awake! Dost not remember that. this is the hour of sacrifice—the glorious hour when the waters of Tico shall sweep a path of destruction
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“through the canyon of the Devil ? Awake, ’ ee of the peak. Isa The men. sprang to their feet obedient to his call, and, rifle in hand, formed in line. Bs Yes, your greatness,” said one, who was evidently a lieutenant, ‘ we are quite ready.” Good! That is well. Now, away to the flood-gates, and prepare to answer my signal from the peak top !”’ The men bowed low, then turned on their heel, and filed away to the tunnel. As soon as they had gone, the strange commander turned to the four armed men who had remained behind. “Now, Valquero, is my balloon ready ? ” “Yes, your greatness,” was the reply, “all ready. This way, sir.” They led the way to the wall in the rear of the cabin, where, upon the ground, was‘a small wicker-basket to which was attached arope. ‘This ran like a diminutive serpent up through the darkness, through a pulley on the top of the Flat Butte, and back down to the bottom of Death Gulch, again. Stepping | into the basket the commander gave the signal, and the men sprang to and pulled down on the return rope, thereby -drawing the basket up out of sight in the darkness. For some time they pulled away manfully, and were at last rewarded by feeling the rope tighten and cease to draw further. The basket had reached the top. In the meantime the other banditti had passed through the tunnel, and by way of the rocky staircase reached the shore of the lake, and grasped the fatal lever that was to be the means of carrying death and destruction down through Devil’s Canyon. There were full three-score of them, and it would be no feat of strength for them to hoist the gates. All that was now wanting was the signal from the Flat Butte, whither _all eyes were turned in attention. Full ten minutes passed when a faint flash reddened the sky, then followed a pistol report, and a fire whose colour was blood-red ace fiercely on high from the n the bright light stood that ‘tall, spectral, white-enveloped. figure, whose beard swept the gleaming girdle at his waist, and in whose hand waved to and fro the terrible baton. First, he approached the portion of the plateau overlooking the canyon, and glaring down into its depths, gave vent to a series of wild, horrible shrieks; then he wheeled abruptly and advanced to the edge, over- - Jooking the Death Gulch, and Lake Tico, far beyond. Halting on "the brink of the se, Dispos: he raised both arms aloft. Taraccordanes with ¥ plan stood among them, one of thet bandi vay sprinkled a sack of some strange ‘smi powder on the shore near to the lever, and Pree a match to it. Inst a flame similar to the one on the Flat Butt & sprang up and illumined the scene. Every surrounding object was plainly revealed. “ All eyes were turned upon the ‘spectra " figure—for the ee signal. Once he the baton on high, swung if around his head and let it z back by side. Once ! Then after a lapse of several moments dead silence, he repeated the movemen Twice! Only once more and then the fatal. would be raised. Eagerly and impatie: the banditti watched. Finally the long bony arm with the b; began to rise the third time. : But hark! There is the faintly audi report of a rifle, heard from the dist peak with which the northeastern bridge rope communicates ; the rising arm of t spectral chief falls to his side; he stagg back, and with a wild, horrible yell, upon the plateau. “Stop! stop!” shrieks a voice, as a. wiry figure comes bounding across. the rope a bridge—“ stop! in ther cognomen 0 ies Jehoover.” But the banditti paid no heed. With a wild, vengeful scream they sprun mighty lever, and the great waters in Lake Tico went roaring and pour the Devil’s Canyon. - At this identical juncture Wild Edna and the four guards stood in the mouth of the tunnel where it opened into the canyon. ~ As the water came dashing downward grand, awful volume, she turned ° and said : ““T am ready, Josh!” and she spra into a flat boat lying near. Pe “Quick, now! cast me out be torrent grows too fierce. “Ti venture, Pll admit, but I must save’ smen. If I never come back, frien Ss: prosper you !”” As of one accord, they kissed her in silent devotion, then gathering th craft in their arms, they plunged it forcibly bo Sigh 2 the sheet of falling water: into the mad rapids beyond. The boat neither swamped nor caps! but danced down over the fury-lash d fle with startling velocity. : On—on—on—dashed the little tossed craft with wild-eyed dni seemne-cae ;
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At last, she knew by surrounding@land- - marks that she was directly over the place - where Sir Harry’s camp had been. In vain, here, did she peer around, with hope struggling against hope in her breast that 4 4 by some strange chance she would see the - young nobleman and his guide still clinging _ to a projecting crevice or spur. Alas ! she was doomed to disappointment. Nothing but the forbidding grey walls met her gaze—nothing but the awful roaring tumult of the furious flood greeted her hearing. Sir Harry and Dan had been swept away | CHAPTER XIV RETURN TO DEATH GULCH _ Swerr away! A sudden wave of sadness stole over the beauteous face of the Girl Bandit as she realized this, and tears filled her eyes—tears of bitter anguish, for she loved Sir Harry, _ this wild flower of the mountain—loved him with all the intense power of her maiden nature—had loved him from the moment _ of her first meeting with him. Now he was gone ! Oh! how bitter was the pain that now - pierced her heart ; how silent and torturing _ the anguish that convulsed her whole being ! Her hands clutched tightly to the steering- _ sweep, but she made no effort to guide the eraft, as it plunged along with the mad waters. It) kept near the centre of the swift - current, and escaped being wrecked on the ~~ a K Rar. at? foam-lashed wall of the canyon. _ Why’ care if it did go to pieces? All of __ the sunshine of her young life had gone out; she was indifferent to all dangers ; ‘she wanted to die. ~ On—on, over the thundering flood, and then she was startled by a loud, ringing hallo. “H-a-y, thar, ship, ahoy! Whar ye goin’, an’ d’ye ship passenjars ? ” - The voice was that of Dan Coggswell. Tn an instant all her hopes revived. - With almost frenzied energy she directed the headlong craft into a near eddy, where, with skilful hands, she managed to hold it. _ ‘Where are you?” she cried. ““Hayr! hayr! on the starboard side 0’ e, in a big black-b’ar hoe? up in ther sides ther rocks. Hurry up afore yer skoonyer its too far down-stream!” With a strength that surprised her, Wild owerful strokes at the : ore gave a few trok ~ paddl that sent the boat spinning across FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX — ‘hes gone under, fer good. 29 5 s f : 3 Sper aee et toward the aperture, whose mouth she could now just define, ahead in the curve. Nearer and nearer she approached, and at last, as the boat went crashing against the rocky wall, she made a leap and Old Dan Coggswell caught her in his arms and pulled her into the bear’s cave ! the same one from which the guide and Sir Harry had tumbled the big Bruin, a few days previous. “ , ““Thar ye ar’, daisy,’”’ he said, depositing — It was: the brave girl on her feet, “safe an’ sound’s a shell-bark.” “But, the other!” gasped Wild Edna, hs with apprehension—‘‘ where is Pies ““Ve mean ther boss, Sir Harry? ‘Yas, I see’d you leant thet way. Wal, miss, I’m darnashun sorry, but I’m afeard Sir Harry Ye kin see fer yersel’, however, as he lays over thar in « ther corner, limp an’ loose as an unsturched shirt.” The Girl Bandit did not wait for him to finish the sentence, but hastily groped her way to where the body of Sir Harry lay — insensible, with a ragged gash over his temple. ild Edna took his head in her lap, and with skilful hand dressed the wound, old Dan. assisting as well as he knew how. ; “J. think ’tain’t no kinder use tew,” he said, shaking his grizzled head as the moments fled by and still the baronet lay like one in death. “On the contrary, I think he will re- cover,” was the reply. ‘This is an ugly — bruise, but I believe it has only stunned — him. Bring me a little water in your hat, and I will pour it down the back of his neck. — That will bring him to when nothing else will.” Dan hastened to obey, and scooped his — hat full of water out of a trickling little apting inside their retreat. Then leaving the girl to her act of restoration, he returne to the mouth of the cave to watch the — flood. : The waters had now gone down, and it was plain that Lake Tico was nearly drained. — “Did Sir Fleming and Sir Bruce come up and pay their ransom?” asked Dan, turning abruptly from the mad waters below him. si “Ves,” was the reply, “but not with — very good grace. They, with the two ladies, are now lodged in the bandits’ cabin in — Death Gulch.” F Sir Harry now began to show signs of returning consciousness, and soon, to the joy of both, he gave a gasp and opened his — eyes. a oe .
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~~ 30 OLD AVALANCHE’S FIGHT WITH THE SIOUX “Ugh!” he groaned, staring around, until his eyes lit upon the sweetly beautiful face of Wild Edna, when a smile of welcome flitted across his own pallid features. “Where am I? I have been wounded— had a fight for life—Dan and I. How came I here, and you, too?” 4g, A few words explained all. 4a But you, fair Edna—why did you peril so much to try to save us? ” A red flush mantled her face—her eyes filled with tears but her lips refused to speak. , ‘** Ah, sweet girl,’’ he murmured, drawing her head down to his own, “‘ if my poor life is worth so much to you, let me here pay the recompense of so much love, by giving myself to you.” She attempted to rise and leave; he pulled her back, and caught her in a loving, passionate embrace, while he rained kisses on her rosy lips and crimsoning cheek. ““Edna—darling,” he murmured, ‘“ do not be frightened nor tremble thus. I love you, sweetest—love you as man never loved before.” ‘* But—but——” she faltered, though she did not shrink from his manly embrace, “you know nothing, absolutely nothing, of me or my antecedents.” “*Nor do I care, darling. I wed you and love you for yourself, not for your ante- cedents.” “My parentage is respectable,” con- tinued Wild Edna. “My father was a Spanish-Mexican ranchero, who, ere his death, rose to be a distinguished man in Texan history. My mother was an English- woman, and after my father’s death, when I and my brother were but children, she came North, intending to settle in Minne- sota, where her brother resided. “But Indians drove her train into this vicinity, from whom they were rescued by our band of mountain outlaws, headed by the old man you saw on the Flat Butte. ““We were all held captives for years, and, in fact, ever since our capture. The second year of our durance, mother married the wild chief, but died a month after her bridal.” “That is enough,” cried Sir Harry, peeing her rapturously. “I am amply satisfied, my love, my queen.” In the meantime, the flood had gone down, and Devil’s Canyon was free from the destroying element. When he could at last see the bottom, old Dan apprised the lovers of the fact, and Wild Edna sprang to her feet. “I must go, now,” she said, as Sir Harry Ss would have detained her, “and see how things have shaped in the retreat. Do not fear for me, for I shall risk nothing.” “Very well; I will try to endure your absence, though it seems hard to part so | soon, Are we to remain here?” mae . “Yes, until I return, and that will be just as soon as I can.” By aid of a lasso, the maiden was lowered from the bear’s cave, and soon disappeared — up the canyon. The day passed slowly to the two men. Night at last fell over the land, and both Dan and Sir Harry sought rest in repose, for they had not slept a wink the previous night. , Early in the following morning, they — heard a call from below, in the canyon, and oor to the entrance, beheld Wild Edna there. ““Come !”’ she said, excitedly, “ hurry and slide down the rope, and follow me to the Death Gulch. Something has happened that demands your immediate presence — there.” Sere) They obeyed, by quickly scrambling down ~ the lasso, after which Wild Edna led the — way up the canyon, to the mouth of the tunnel. Here a squad of four masked men ~ took them in charge, and conducted them through and into the cabin in Death Gulch. be CHAPTER XV LAST SCENE BEFORE THE CURTAIN FALLS Here, a strange tableau was presented. — The room was some thirty feet long by ~ twenty wide, and was the main compart- — ment of the cabin. It was furnished in the primitive style of the Far West, and with — appointments of the rudest description. ‘ On the floor in one corner was a couch of | skins, on which lay a figure apparently in — great mental or physical pain; for his — groans were loud and horrible to hear. By his bedside knelt Lady Milburn and her daughter, sobbing in the depths of their _ handkerchiefs, while at their side stood the — tall commanding figure of Nevada Sam. In another corner of the room lay two — more figures, bound hand and foot, whom the reader will have no difficulty in recog- nizing as the redoubtable Old Avalanche, — and Idaho Bill. It was Old Avalanche who had fired the unerring bullet which dropped the spectral figure on the Flat Butte, the — night of the flood. ;
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[ang S a ae ~ OLD AVALANCHE’S FI FOES bg ne vi HT WITH THE SIOUX dyes pen eee tae ee ee Re ey ene soil, than, At the opposite side of the room, all the bandits were formed in a compact line, and directly before them stood two prisoners— _ Sir Fleming and Sir Bruce. On the farther side of the bed from - Nevada Sam, stood a rough old borderer, whose vocation it was to deal out medicine and pills to any who might require his _ services. This was the situation of affairs as Wild Edna entered the room, -accompanied by Sir Harry, Dan, and the guards. The latter remained near the door, with the guide, and Edna led her betrothed forward to the couch. “Sir Harry,” said Nevada Sam, touching his sombrero respectfully, ‘“‘you have arrived too late to hear the dying story of the man lying before you, but I am so well acquainted with it, and with his past life, that, if you will listen, I will tell you all. ” Sir Harry inclined his head, as he studied the features of the bandit-chief, and Nevada Sam went on : Twenty years ago Sir Henry Arriscourt, a great explorer, came to America to travel in this western wilderness, and bring to light the features of unknown paris of the New World. “He was the sole surviving son of an old house, and a man of great knowledge and culture. In leaving England, his native land, he also left behind him a wife and two infant children, who were the pride of his possessions. “Years before, Lady Hetty had had another suitor, in the person of one of Sir Henry’s relatives, Sir Fleming Milburn by name, but in consequence of some disgrace, he had been forced to quit England and relinquish the field to Sir Henry, who soon after wedded the lady of his choice. ** No sooner did Sir Henry reach American securely disguised, his rival offered him his services for a small con- sideration, and an engagement was effected, after which the two travelled westward. Tt was Sir Henry’s highest ambition to do the loftiest peak in this section, ere he proceeded farther, and for that purpose he Secured a Canadian guide, but he proving incapable, another fellow was added to the “Thet war me!” shouted Old Avalanche, from his corner—“ me, ther great snow-slide o’ destruction.” : : “Darn my socks!” ejaculated a voice, and a man leaped from among the banditti ; “see yere, ole hoss, kinder *pears ter me - L’ve heerd ther squeek 0’ yer vocality afore, ain't I? I onc’t hed a bruther wi’ thet precise same wabble in his viice, but ther Sooks got him, w’ile I war, as Shakespeer sed, “Grafted inter ther army. ** Now, I say, my Christyen fr’end, hain’t yer name Hogg—spelt wi’ tew G’s ?” “Yas, my appellaterve ar’ Hogg,” replied Old Avalanche, excitedly—“ Alva Lanch Hogg, sure’s beavers hey twins.” “Then allow me ter interdooce myself as yer bruther, Josiah Billiam Hogg—Hogg spelt wi’ two G’s—the grate Pog o’ ther Nor’west, an’ ther famuse romancer o’ ther Powder River Range.” There was a glad cry of delight; the Annihilator’s bonds were cut, and the next instant the two long-lost brothers were locked in a bear-like hug. _ All this time Nevada Sam was speak- ing. “ After the second guide was added, the expedition plunged deep into the wilderness, and after many days’ toilsome climbing, — reached the top of the Flat Butte, above us, only to find that other explorers had been there. “While camping on the Butte, Sir Fleming and his secret accomplice, Raleigh, the Canadian guide, formed a hellish plan, and executed it. “ “The elder guide was sent down the mountainside for cones, and during his absence Sir Henry was lowered over the precipice and*dropped down into this, the Death Gulch.” Sir Harry uttered a horrified cry. “The: fall did not kill your father,” re- sumed Nevada, “‘ for the rope by which they lowered him reached within ten feet of the ' bottom, but in dropping his head struck a rocky spur and fractured the skull, thereby causing insanity, from which he has never recovered. In Death Gulch he found a band of outlaws, and ever since that night, twenty years ago, he has been their chief. Sir Fleming Milburn returned to England, I have learned from your mother, and—well, you know the rest. oe “* Now, one more matter and I have done. On the night of the flood, this dying man received his death-wound at the hand of yon scout, Old Avalanche—the man who is the only one now living and capable of speech who can bear witness that Sir Fleming Milburn is guilty of an attempt on your father’s life. The question is: is punishment to be inflicted on the scout ? He says he fired the fatal shot to prevent the signal from being given that was in- tended to cause the raising of the flood- gates of Lake Tico.” Be Sir Harry was about to reply, when, by a
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couch of skins. “Set Alva Lanch free!” he said, in a husky whisper. ‘“‘He is not guilty of intentional murder, and I thank him for --relieving me from a life of pain, mental torture and misery. I freely forgive him, as I hope God will forgive me. Sam—where ishe?” Nevada Sam advanced to the side of the couch, with bowed head and tearful eyes. “Good,” said Sir Henry. “My boy, you have been as good as a son to me, and I would see you happy. To place you on equal terms with your fellow-men, I will you the result of my years of outlawry— one hundred thousand dollars, which you will find beneath this couch, and, moreover, I give my consent to your union with Maude, here ; for my eyes have apprised me that you are two not indifferent to each other. “Harry, my son, in you I see a noble man of whom I am justly proud. You are the last male representative of my own noble house. It therefore devolves upon - you to support my dear wife and your _ mother, in her declining path through life, eo and also to marry, that the family name may be handed down to future generations. I have selected for you a beautiful bride whose past life has been one of purity and goodness, and whose pedigree is of the best in our American land.” “You mean Wild Edna?” “T do, my son, I do.” : “Then rest easy on that point. She and 1 have learned the lesson of love, and she is to be mine.” “Thank God. I am now satisfied, and would-be content to die were it not for parting from thee, my dearly loved wife.” “Weep not for me, husband,” sobbed Lady Hetty, “for perhaps God will soon summon me to join you in that great and better world !’” He kissed her, then sank back on the ~ couch, a smile of glory overspreading his bearded face and ere long he ceased to breathe. A few hours later Sir Bruce and Sir ' Fleming were conducted to the mouth of the tunnel by a squad of the banditti, and - placed upon strong, swift-limbed mustangs. Nevada Sam told them that half.an hour’s side would be given them dowel a aed thon the Hood patel of Lake Tico wold THE END ae be opened. Accordingly, the two fugitives their spurs into their steeds’ flesh, and dashed furiously away down the canyon. When the half-hour was up, the flood- gates were raised, and Tico’s waters again flew down the Devil’s Canyon on its mission of death and destruction ! : plunged CHAPTER XVI es Sle) al CONCLUSION Tue body of Sir Henry was boxed and prepared for transportation, but at the last moment, it was decided to bury him in the gulch, rather than to attempt the difficulty of bearing him back to England. “Sas After the last sad rite was over, a col sultation was held with the brigands, which resulted in a resolve on their part to quit — the scene of their late operations, and tone enter the Black Hills country. ~ eS * For a small compensation they agreed to conduct our friends out through the canyon, to the Indian fort, where they could jo a train via the Upper Gap to Fort Dakota. — The start was made on the eee 3 morning, and all except Old Avalanche : Josiah Hogg left the Devil’s Canyon. The latter shouldered their rifles anc took an opposite course, down the canyon, — where soon to the Annihilator’s surpris he was joined by Florence Nightingale, had been faithfully searching for his m since having lost him, during the perilous trip over the mountains. 3 daho Bill went with the banditti, having — ee decided to join them. : The party whose adventures we hays been picturing, reached Dakota fort in due season, and remained there until Septem-~ ber 1876, when they started for England. uring the sojourn at the fort, Nevada and Sir Harry, armed with proof-paper: found on Sir Henry’s person, took | down across the country into ico, where they succeeded in finding a valuable property, which was duly disposed o and the proceeds divided betwee brother and sister.
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el a aie ie | as ee = eS - a eer «pee ee DICK TURPIN LIBRARY Stirring Adventure Stories, in all of which the Prince of Highwaymen plays a leading part Ss commnaeeae pais Recent Titles t1clude -:x-v0-ccce eee ; . THE HOUSE OF TERROR. . ON SECRET SERVICE. 2. CAPTAIN KIDD’S TREASURE. . THE RENEGADE. . THE TREASURE TRAIL. . LEATHER-FACE. 3. TED MINTON’S INHERITANCE. _IN NEWGATE’S GRIP. . THE HIGHWAYMAN’S APPRENTICE. . SNATCHED FROM THE GIPSIES. 4, ON A FALSE TRAIL. . UNDER THE YELLOW ROBE. . THE CIRCUS KING. . THE KING OF GROOKS. . SOLD FOR GOLD. 89. THE GREY RIDERS. 88. BLACK BESS TO THE RESCUE. 87. £5,000 REWARD. 86. A COWARD REFORMED. 85. THE PRISON SHIP. 84. THE RUMPAD ESCORT. *: i. PRICE ¢=5d. EACH On sale at all Newsagents and Baokstalle or by post 4d. each _ from the Publishers, GEORGE NEWNES, LTD., a | 8-11, SouTHAMPTON STREET, STRAND, Lonpon, W.C. 2. |