Deadwood Dick Library (v. 2) (1899 06 28)

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fopyright 1879-1885, by Beadle & Adains. Entered at Post Office, New York, N, Y., as second class matter. Mar, 15, 189% M, J. IVERS & €O., Publisher: No 1 6 Issued Weekly. FT cites Ceeecent fe Price y Certts \ol, II, = : June 28, 1899. 379 Pearl Street, New York, $2.50 a Lear. BY EDWARY LL; WHEELER, THEN CHARLIE SPRUNG ASIDE QUICKLY, AND STRUCK THE BEAR A TERRIBLE 3 WITH THE Ww KNIFE IN "THE BACK, OF THR NEORs om

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EDWARD. L. WHEELER'S DEADWOOD DICK, JR. NOVELS IN THE HALF-DIME LIBRARY. 443 Deadwood Dick, Jr.; Crescent Sign. Deadwood Diek, Jr’s, Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Deadwood lick, 5 Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Jr. Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Jr., 648 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ Continent. 654 Deadwood Dick, Jr., glers. 660 Deadwood.Dick, Jr. 666 Deadwood Dick, Jr., 672 Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, | Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, 5 Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, Deadwood Dick, ar; dt:, JY.’ ore -For sale by all newsdealers or sent, postpaid, on receipt of price, 5c. per copy, by the publish ers, M. J. IVERS & CO., 379 Pears Street, New York Crry. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Racket at Claim 10. 71 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, } Deadwood Dick, Jr.'s, Sheu y orcs, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, or. 8; Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, mh ead Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Jr, Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Jr., 2 Deadwood Dick, Jr., JY; , in Denver. Deadwood Dick, Jr.’s, 5 Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Beelzebub’s Basin. JT.; Jt} Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Jr., in Cincinnati. Deadwood Dick, Jr., Deadwood Dick, Jr., Jr,” Jr.’ JY, Price 5 Cents per Copy. or, The Crimson Defiance. Full Hand. Big Round-Up. Corral. Dog Detective. in Deadwood. Compact. Inheritance. Diggings. Deliverance. Protege. Three. s, Danger Ducks. s, Death Hunt. in Texas. the Wild West Vidocq. on His Mettle. in Gotham. in Boston. in Philadelphia. in Chicago, A float. / Decree. at Coney Island. s, Leadville Lay. in Detroit. in Nevada. in No Man’s Land. After the Queer. in Buffalo. s, Chase Across the Among the Smug- ’s, Insurance Case. Back in the Mines. in Durango. s, Discovery. ’s, Dazzle. ’s, Dollars. at Danger Divide. s, Drop. at Sar k-Pot. at San Francisco, 716 Deadwood Dick, 722 Deadwood Dick. 728 Deadwood Dick, 734 Deadwood Dick, 740 Deadwood Dick, 747 Deadwood Dick, 752 Deadwood Dick, 758 Deadwood Dick, 764 Deadwood Dick, 770 Deadwood Dick, 776 Deadwood Dick, 782 Deadwood Dick, 787 Deadwood Dick, 792 Deadwood Dick, 797 Deadwood Dick, JT.” ap ee Bh Jr. Jr. Jr. ar. Jr. Jr. ast Jr. Jr. Jt.,; Jr. Jt.” Jr. Jr. She Jr. Jr. 802 Deadwood Dick, 807 Deadwood Dick, 812 Deadwood Dick, 816 Deadwood ‘Dick, 822 Deadwood Dick, 828 Deadwood Dick, 834 Deadwood Dick, 840 Deadwood Dick, 845 Deadwood Dick, Ji 852 Deadwood Dick, 858 Deadwood Dick, 863 Deadwood Dick, 870 Deadwood Dick, 876 Deadwood Dick,- 882 Deadwood Dick, 891 Deadwood Dick, 898 Deadwood Dick, 904 Deadwood Dick, 910 Deadwood Dick, 916 Deadwood Dick, 928 Deadwood Dick, 934 Deadwood Dick, 940 Deadwood Dick, 946 Deadwood Dick, 951 Deadwood Dick, 957 Deadwood Dick, 965 Deadwood Dick, 971 Deadwood Dick, 977 Deadwood Dick, 980 Deadwood Dick, 992 Deadwood Dick, 998 Jr.; Jr.’ Abe Jr)’ Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Ji 1018 Deadwood Dick, Jr. Jr Ite ‘JT. ,’s, High Horse. JTe Ab aa! wr.” Jr., “bed dr. JT. obi Ws, Ten-Strike. pie sr. Jt.” bes ITs) Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ 1005 Deadwood Dick, Jr., 1011 Deadwood Dick, Jr.’ J E 4 q 4 : s, Still Hunt. s, Dominoes. ’s, Disguise. s, Double’ Deal. 1g Death-Watch. ’s, Doublet. ’s, Death-Blow. | s, Desperate Strait. s, Lone Hand. ? s, Defeat. s, Resurrection. ’s, Dark Days. Defied. s, Double Device. s, Desperate Venture. s Diamond Dice. ’s, Royal Flush. 5, Head-Off. 's, Rival. ’s, Boom. s, Scoop. s, Proxy. s, Clutch. , at Devil’s Gulch. s, Death-Hole Hustle s, Bombshell. in Mexico, s, Decoy Duck. in Siiver Pocket. s, Dead-Sure Game. ’s, Double Drive. s, Trade-Mark. , at Tip-Top. s, Double-Decker. * , at Dollarville, ., at Flush Flats. he Shake-Up. s, Double Drop. s, Right Bower. s, Gold Dust. ’s, Oath. s, Death-Doom, s, Best Card. a ete s, Big Play. Branded. s, Dutch Pard. ’s, Big Four.

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Hi die Copyright 1879-1885, by Beadle & Adams. Entered at Post Office, New York, N. Y., as second class matter. Mar. 15, 189% (ap RL SC BB ag Ie a Ss & > i No 16 Issued Weekly. “i Soe Eee Price 5 Cents. y | ll + 10. “June 28, 1899. eran PREC DEOW EOS $2.50 a Year Ol. Us [ J 379 Pearl Street, New York. . ‘CORDUROY CHARLIE, the pov pravo; °° "estrse BY EDWARD L. WHEELER. } WE y y; Wp, Hii) y 4 Y nf

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- Corduroy Charlie, THE BOY BRAVO; Deadwood Dick’s Last Act. BY EDWARD L. WHEELER, AUTHOR OF NUMBERS 1, 20, 26, 28, 32, 35, 39, 42, 45, 49, 58, 57, 61, 73 OF BEADLE’S HALF-DIME LIBRARY. {All Dramatic Rights Reserved by the Author.] CHAPTER I. THE MASQUERADE—A LITTLE ILLUSTRATION OF WHAT COURAGE AMOUNTS TO. 3 Niear, with a wild storm brooding upon its bosom, was hovering over the entire Black Hills and Nation- al Park country—nicht, as black as the darkest hues of the raven’s wing, and a storm which had gathered upon the heavens in giant force, and threatened every minute to burst and dash its waters down in torrents over the gold-veined hills and in the rugged face of Nature! A winding mountain dug-way or stage-road led down into a pine-encircled gulch, where nestled Quartz City—an infant colony and mining town of no particular repute or importance—a sort of way- stafion between the Hills proper and the National Park or American Wonderland, where a few san- guine souls had dropped off. Soms quartz rock had been found and a “ pay-streak”’ of sand, which had induce i the pioneers to stay in the little vale, where the evergreen pines furnished an emerald border to tha beds of flowers that grew and bloomed in wild luxuriance. . Quartz City was no Deadwood, no Whoop-Up, nor Hayard in size, but yet on a small seale represent- ed all the attractions of the above towns, with its throng of people in the vals, and a few stor’s, saloons, dance-houses, and gambling-dens. Of this class of bulla ings. there were perhaps a@ score, on the immediate banks of Castle Creek.’ Ths rest of the. town was sc vttere1 all over the valley in uncon- nected confusion, with no regularity as t> line or apnearance—log and slab cabins predominating. But a short distance to the southwest rolled the famous Park country, while to the northwest In- yan Karas. 6,590 feet of altitude, loomed up above allits neighbor opp while fo the east, north and south stretched the golden country of flowers and rocks, with its cascades and streams, and beautiful valleys, where encroaching civilization is fast set- tling a district which promises at no far distaut day to be as fair a land as there is under the sun. But night over Quartz City and the placer-mines of Cistle Creek lends no enchanting effect to the beauties of nature—rather urges the weary eS- trian, a youth lacking but one year of majority, to descend the rugged dug-way trail into the little town, where many lights are twinkling out of the gloom asif to welcome him. Closs behind him comes @ Chinaman, mounted upon an ugly prcl-mule; then, still in the rear of that animal, follow two more of a like spacies, harnessed to a ‘‘ schooner” weeon, and driven by a large, greasy-looking red- skin. What the wagon contains aside from the red-skin is not apparent, because of the closely-shirred cur- tains of canvas; but the youth in advance occasion- ally gives a glance of inquiry back in the direction of the jolting wagon, as if to assure himself that the Indian builwhacker had not fallen asleep. Slowly the night caravan wound down into the vale, an ¢rew up before a row of brililantly-lighted stores, where wares and all mauner of goods were vivered for sale, y : eS Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. ,| firm: shoulders. Once in the light of several lamp-reflectors, the youthful leader of the caravan was better seen for description. He was of medium stature, witiz strong, wiry limbs and massive chest; a figure for a gladiator was his, with a prominence in swelling muscles and tensely-drawn cords, Clad from the chin to his knee-boots in corduroy, he still showed the striking beauty of his muscular form. . In face he was prepossessing, if not what the critic would call really handsome. It was a full, intellectual face, shorn of all beard—a face with firm, resolute mouth, and eyes that could flash fire of enthusiasm or anger from their Se aut of brown} a forehead high and clear, with clustering curls of brown as a border. which waved back over a fine-. shaped head, and fell in a mass upon the broad, a. Oe Cam ee ary een oes, Aslouch hat, a belt of weapons, and a rifle com- pleted the outfit or costume of the youth, whom if is our purpose to take for a chief character in a ro- mance from the peculiar life in the hills of the country of gold. The little caravan had halted almost before a tay- ern which stood adjoining one of the dry-zoods stores, over the door of which was the cheerful Gor man sign, i “Tae Bia ScHooNER]"’ Several men, who had been standing outside the door as Corduroy Charlie came up, stepped forward and peered sharply into the new-comer’s face. They were all swarthy, evil-looking fellows, attired in buckskin and armed to the teeth—men, evidently, whose motives were never of the best, and who would swoop upon their prey even as the hawk darts upon itssmaller game. ; * Hello. boys! w’at hevawe here?” ejaculated one— a burly, bloated wretch, with heavy mustache and goatee. ‘Looks like a green ’un, eh—a sort 0’ ten- der-fut, ye see! Sayee, Johnny, w’ich way does yer epee pins?” “None 0' yer vig-headed galoot’s bizness!” replied _ Corduroy, stepping aside and atrempting to pass. But the ruffians blockaded his path, with a series of horrible chuck'es. oi “No yer don’t, sonny!” the former spokesmanin- _ terposed, with a grin of evit delight. ‘Don’t ye ro an’ git so fast, an’ I'll be merciful ter phe Goren S ye nevyer heerd o’ me, did ye?—old Jem McTu k, — ther bullwhacker prince. A sort 0’ nabob, ye see, who kin lick his weight in stage-drivers or pilgrim toughs, you chalk et!” “Leare not who you are; get out of my path an’ let me pass, or’’—and the young stranger laid his right hand toward his belt—‘‘1’ll put a death-spot inter aoe anatomy so quick that ye can’t tell what — struc ie Charlie made no re i marks, but stepped back a few paces with Sashi eyes, Ths light from the shop windows streame 5 back into tha middle of the’street where he stood; he took a heavy gold watch from his pocket, and glance’ at it a moment thoughtfully. . tag “Ten o’clock!” he muttered, with a zlance un and down the street, “and no hop® of getting a decent bunk in any of these dens, probably.” : _ He stepped back to the wagon occupied by the iudian driver on the seat, iat “Drive on into the valley, Bad Medicine, to where — the cabins are not thick, and onhitch the muies and let em graze. Be sure you and Clever Sam watch the wagon close, and if inquisitive visitors como send them about their business. D'ye hear?” ie “Ugh! Bad Medicine hear ebbery time,'?

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. ‘Then the wagon moved along up the street into the heart of the valley, the Chinaman riding meekly in advance, and pebeates} the scene with wide-open almond-shaped eyes as he rode, When a bend in the street had hidden the wagon from his view, Cordu- roy Charlie turned once more toward the tavern where the roughs still stood, eying him grimly. He was aware that for some unaccountable reason they had fixed upoit him a grudge, or a desire to annoy him and excite a quarrel, but he determined not to be bluffed in the outset, coming, as he did, a stran- ger into the mines. Accordingly he advanced with a firm step, one hand resting near the belt, and the other carrying his rifle, Contrary to his expectation, the roughs ak i to one side and allowed him to pass into the ayern, After he had gone, McTurk turned to the one of rd companions who went under the name of Monk organ. ‘* Monk, did ye ever see that galoot?”’ he demand- ed, as he pointed back over his shoulder toward the interior of the “ Big Schooner.” “Ther boy?—no. Who ar’ he?’ “Thet’s fer us ter find out, an’ report ter head- quarters. The boy’s no slouch, you chalk ef, an’ ef he ain’t our game, ye may shute me. Sez ther boss ter me, t’other day, sez he—‘McTurk, ef ye see a young feller cum aroun’ as is in ther least suspicious watch out fer him an’ ha on him, He may be wanted.’ Wal, thet applies ter yonder galoot, as is inside, tho’ mebbe he ain’t ther one ther boss wants. Anvhow, thar’s meat fer us ter pick, Ye see’d ther wagon w’at the red-skin driv?” as ‘ou bet, an’ a quare looker ware thet same red- skin. - “Wal, the young feller's got somethin’ precious in thar, mark et—a gal, 1 reckon, or gold, or sumthin’ else, So while I sail inside, you foller ther wagon an’ spook around.” “ _ Monk Morgan nodded, and, followed by his com- panions, set out up the street, while McTurk entered the tavern. The Big Schooner, kept by a sturdy Dutchman, whom the miners had christened Pretzel Pete, was the only creditable concern in the town, so far as size was concerned. It had been erected out of rough boards, sixty feet front and pine. feet in pent bbe largest affair of the kind in the Black ills, Pretzel Pete had come to Quartz City direct from Pittsburg, Pa., with a pocketful of money, and an open eye to business—had erected his tavern, and arted into business, with music—for a German band played the good old airs of Rhineland in Peter's ec ishment the whole of every afternoon and evening. Buta little space was reserved for the bar and pee abies: the rest of the lower part of the ig Schooner was turned into a ball-room. nd, here, to-night, a grand Masked Ball was to be given; consequently the town, and especially Pret- z°1 Pete's place. were crowded with men and women from all parts of the Hills—for couriers had spread the news far and wide, and the stages had and were still bringing in their crowds. After Corduroy Charle entered the tavern, he purchased some cigars at the bar, and sauntered ‘back into the ball-room, where a great crowd had already assembled—men in red shirts and stor boots, some with hats, some without—women in costumes: calculated not to impede their graceful motion in the dance, with ptnk stockings and slip- rs; some of them wore silks and jewels, while thers were scantily dressed: it was a comming: ting of wealth and poverty, of the clean and the un- clean, Corduroy Charlie sauntered around through the room, surveying each face with a sharp scrutiny. - But in all the crowd he saw not one he knew, for masks were worn without exception, by both males md females. It was a strange sea of masked faces, 36 some of them simple dominoes, while others were grotesque and horrible. : At last the German band struck u ture, and the floor managers began for the opening dance. Standing aloof from the wd, leaning idly against the wall, Gorduroy Charlie ran his eye over the crowd, curiously, as he puted his cigar. “Humph! a queer crowd,” he soliloquized, half- aloud, a strange expression upon his Foun es ‘a startling pieture of all phases of life. ! ex- cuse me, ma’am—was it to me you were speaking?” and he turned at the sound of a voice, to a mas! person who had approached him—a evidently, judging from the shape, w: to a trifle in a suit of gray clothing, while only a fair chin, neck, and a bit of the snowy shoulders were visible below the mask, and a wealth of dark-brown hair upon the head and shoulders, * Certainly I was speaking to you, sir!” replied the merry, musical voice from beneath the mask. “ You seemed all alone, and a stranger here, and I wanted to ask you if you wouldn’t honor me with the first dance?” “Eh, dance?” Charlie ejaculated, Rezing down at the charming figure in surprise. ‘‘ Why, I hadn’t thought of such a thing, miss, Besides, dancing ain't one of my specialties, you see.” “ But that don’t signify that you can’t dance; so I claim you for the first; and before Charlie was scarcely aware of it, she had whirled him off into the waltz which the criers had announced. And the masked partner found that the handsome siranger was fully her equal, and as light as a eather, : When the waltz was over Corduroy Charlie offered. her his arm, and Jed the way toward a row of seats which flanked the ballroom, but, ere he had crossed half of the great floor, he was dealt a blow beside the head which made bim reel. But, quickly recover- ing, he discovered the ruffian bullwhacker, MeTurk, standing near, “Hal ha!” the fellow capes baaky “ thet’s what ye git fer cag tee another galoot’s human Yea Oe “Did you strike me?” Charlie demanded, with a glance around which discovered nothing of his late partner to the dance. “Did you strike me?” “TJ allow I hit ye one over ther ear, and I'll do ther Be ef ye give me any back talk!” McTurk repned, Ethat’s all I want- to know!’ Corduroy replied. “You'll do me a favor by following me into the street, where a settlement can be made!” And the bullwhacker did follow. And likewise did the crowd. A duel was impending! CHAPTER II. A STREET DUEL—THE YOUNG BRAVO MEETS A QUEER CUSTOMER—OLD AVALANCHE. Yrs, a duel was to be, within the flowery little vale where nestled Quartz City, sheltered from the moun- tains’ wind—a duel between the acknowledged boss of the town, the valiant bullying McTurk and the young bravo, who was a stranger in the town. Understand me rightly, dear readers, for in calling Corduroy Charlie a bravo, I do not use Webster’s definition of the word, which is a * daring villain ;” instead, I use the term. as it is frequently, in the far western frontier, applied to brave and fearless char- acters, who have risked life and faced death— ‘And still lived on.” With a firm step, Corduroy led the way into the street, followed by the ruffian MeTurk and the whole of the crowd who had but lately tripped the light fantastic within Pretzel Pete’s place. Pete was in- dignant, too, and mounted his in high dudgeon to expostulate with the out-going crowd, but4t was no use, for they heeded not his cries when a duel was on the call. - Tx less than five sides a lively over- form the sets minutes the crowd lined both

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4, : Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. of the street, and the two men stood in the middle, thirty paces. apart, facing each other. Both chanced to be armed with the same pattern of revolvers—Smith & Wesson’s. Both men seemed confident of victory. MeTurk pueaatce in his element, as he glared around, in tri- umph, “*T reckon ye wanter luk out fer thet bullwhacker; oung stranger?’ spoke a deep base voice, and Char- ie looked around to behold a masked man of power- ful build, standing close by. “He owes you no good-will, and will doubtless at- tempt to kill you, as he is no slouch of a shot.” “hank you for your advice, but, then, I don’t err Ineed it. I’ve as good a chance as he, every ib.” A pair of seconds were chosen, and the two men toed the mark. Corduroy Charlie was perfectly composed, and held his revolver in a steady grasp, its aim not vary- ing the fiftieth part of an inch. eTurk, however, had no such an aim—liquor had upset the steadiness of his nerves, and he was greatly excited. At a given signal, the duelists fired, the reports of _ their weapons pengtas. into one, so evenly had they ulled the trigger. eTurk gave a yell of pain—a ullet had torn through the fleshy part of his side, making a painful but not dangerous wound, Corduroy Charlie had not, been hit. A yell went up from the crowd—especially from the masked giant who stood near the young bravo, and had warned him of the bullwhacker’s prowess. “You did well, young stranger,’’ he eried, approv- ingly, stroking the long silvery beard which flowed fromin under his mask. ‘Another such a shot a little nearer the heart, will kill the man.” “Which is not my aim!” Charlie replied, recock- ing his weapon, ee? the white kerchief dropped from the hands of the seconds, and the spiteful crack of the revoly- ers pangs out upon the night, accompanied by a vivid as) This time both of the contestants flinched—Cordu- roy only a trifle, however, while McTurk staggered back a few paces, and fell to the ground, blood ooz- ing from a wound in his right sido, opposite the left one. Charlie had been slightly wounded in the left arm near the shoulder, which rendered his pistol grip for the time useless, Hie “‘Are you done, gentlemen?” demanded the sec- onds, simultaneously. ‘‘ Are you satisfied, McTurk?”” -*Bellerin’ pole-cats, yes!” the bullwhacker groan- ed, from his Roo position.on the ground. “ Ther leetle cuss plugged et tome fer more’n I’m wu'th, durn my cats ef he didn’t, But, I'll git even wi’ him, you bet on’t; I'll git even wi’ the devil ef et takes till a’r grows on my eye-teeth, will I!” “ Are you satisfied, young fellow?” “‘T reckon so, for the present!’’ Corduroy Charlie replied, restoring his revolvers to his belt. ‘ But allow me to remark, gentlemen, that though I come here a stranger, [ will not be insulted or crowded on, ‘nary atime. Corduroy Charlie’s my handle, and so when you want anything of me, just sail in and get accommodated!” And with a cool laugh, the young bravo his way through the crowd toward Pretze establishment. Some of those who had come out to witness the duel followed him back into the tavern, and among them were the silver-bearded pat and the sylph-formed maiden with whom he ad danced, “You are wounded, senor,” she said. in soft, kind- ly tones, as she-glided to his side. ‘! You wili come with me and ict me dress your arm?” “Bh, where?” Charlie demanded, gazing at her suspiciously, for he could not read her to his satis- faction. -‘* I reckon I can do it, ma’am—” “Nol no! you must come with me,” was the re- py: and laying a hand upon his uninjured arm, she ed the way through a side door, and then along a ; j : ria pushed Pete’s ? = ; dn sre S, path wkich pointed out into the Garden of Eden, as the beautiful vale had been appropriately named by the miners. Corduroy Charley tollowed his strange guide, be- — cause he did not sonable excuse. He was in need of surgical attendance, and knew hardly where to look for his train until cay should once more break over the beautiful mountain vale. They kept along the path and into the dark vale, where here and there lights twinkled from many a cabin window—no word being spoken for some time, The dark waters of Castle Creek were crossed by a foot-bridge; then they came to a cabin which was dark and silent, “his is my place,’’ Corduroy’s guide said, as she — oor and led the way inside, closin; unlocked the “ Wait a moment and I wi the door after them, procure a light.” She fumbled around a few moments, and then found and lit a lamp, which threw a brilliant radi- ance through the cabin, which was divided by a semi-partition into two eka and furnished with a rude but neat simplicity, — ‘ At a motion from the strange girl. Charlie seated himself, while she vanished behind the partition for a few moments. When she returned she had re- moved the mask, and combed out her wealth of brown hair until in a great silken wave it fell a foot or more below her waist, ; At sight of her face, Corduroy Charlie, used as he was to the etiquette of good society; could barel repress an exclamation. Such a fair vision of lovel ness he had never seen, If the contour and graceful, willowy pose of the form had attracted his admiration in the ball-room, the beauty of the face now did equally as much, The features were just round enough to be pretty, the mouth a trifle large but temptingly sweet, with pouthy red lips, which needed no artificial coloring o make them natural; eyes seemingly of change- able shades to suit the moods, and a head which was more beautiful because of the placid forehead and the wealth of hair. Such a vision was it that Corduroy Charlie saw, and gazed at in surprise and wonder—in admiration that for the moment knew no expression in words. ““You will excuse me]’’ the girl said, coming for- ward, “for neglecting you to attend to myself, but — I really could scarcely breathe in that mask, and—” rs gt seaies you are excusable,’”’ Charlie replied, recovering his self-possession mM an effort. ‘M wound is not painful—only slightly was lucky I got no worse.” “Tndeed if was; for McTurk is considered a crack shot;”’ and kneeling by his side the maiden bared his arm, and proceeded with a careful and skillful hand to dress the wound, which was little more than a furrow plowed through the flesh, causing it to bleed profusely. ‘‘ Why did the ruffian single you out for a quarrel?” 7 ‘That I do not know, miss, Ihad just arrived in this place, and heseemed desirous of rubbing against me, I trust he has got enough from his experi- ment,” , “Tor a time, yes. But, as his wounds are not fatal, when he gets up you will need to watch him sharp, and look out for yourself, for Jem McTurk and his associates are generally feared as bold and desperate characters who hesitate at nothing in the way of crime to attain their own vicious aims, At- tached to them there is a mystery, which our towns- people have not been able to solve.’ 2 *“T fear not!” said Corduroy Charlie. ‘There! inconvenient. It — ow how to refuse with any rea« thanks; my arm feels much better, How much do you charge for your surgical services?” “Oh! nothing at all, It gives me pleasure, al- ways, when Iam enabled to doa suffering fellow. ST good. Your name is Corduroy Charlie, sir 4a is—’ , Yes—that is, my nom de plume, Aud yours :

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. ~ *** Buster,’ sir—at least that’s what 1 am cafled, here in the mines. You can call me as others do.” “But isn’t that rather an undignified appellation, -miss, for a young lady—especially one of as charm- ing presence as yourself?” 5 “Hal bal no. Ihave got fairly used to it and it seems like my own. You see, when I first came here, I let them all know that I had_ grit, a temper, and a will to defend myself from bad treatment, and igsnlt—so they took revenge by naming me after their own liking.” ‘* And, are you all alone here, in this rough mining country?” “Oh! no; [havea relative—and besides him, a firm friend and protector in the person of an old scout, fia! that is his step now ’—and rising the beautiful e€centric hastened to unbar the door and admit a man to the room, “Great pestiferous ham-bone thet macademized ther larnyx uv old andediluvian Joner!” this indi- vidual gasped, as ho strode into the firelight, and his eyes rested first upon Buster and then on Cordu- roy Charlie. ‘‘Hev ye heerd ther news about Dead- wood Dick? Old Moses thet perambulated thr’u’ ther Scriptural bull-rushes! They ’o say thet Deadwood Dickey ar’ ag’in abroad on ther-road, at ther‘head o’ a gang o’road-agents. Heerd it justa bit ago, down ther valley, an’ gol durn my old Florence ee: gale’s left hind huff, ef ther shock o’ ther news warn’t wuss’nary old yearthquake as evyer cavorted thr’u’ these consarned lattytudes an’ longytoads!” Deadwood Dicky” echoed Buster, in astonish- ment, ‘‘ Not the young gentleman whom you point+ ed out to me at the ball the other night?” “Yas, ther very same identical Dickey, wi’out an atomostie deviation. I ked sw’ar et war not ther truth, only thet suthin’ hes cecurred thet makes me thinik ther boy’s bin driven back ter ther old life.” ‘*And what is that, friend?” r “Ther unfaithfulness of his wife, Leone. Great modest ham-bone thet delivered old Joner frum Lape, arfter gittin’ him inter a consarned diffi- lty. Et makes my old bones gret tergether w’en I think o’ et; Lordy, yes.” And Old Avalanche, for the strange-looking indi- vidual was none other than the famous Annihilator, | bowed his head in his hands and wept. But, as a matter of habit, he never allowed grief long to hold sway over his spirit, and he soon straightened up, with the old grim look upon his face. Shall we describe him? It seems to me useless, for he is no stranger to the thousands who regularly read this Library, in which he has repeatedly figured as a chief character, He is little changed; the lithe wiry form, buckskin-clad, is, if anything, thinner but ‘more irony than before, and the furrowed, but good- expressioned countenance is the same, unless the stubble beard and hair be a trifle more grizzled, and the eyes more sunken and haggard. He straightens up now, wiping the moisture from his eyes with his shirt-sleeve, and then gazing first” at one and then the other of his two companions. “Who is the younker, Buster? Great intellectual ham-bone that guv old Joner the brain fever, but he do luk like a feller IT once know’dup in Arizona, His name war Tom Fielding; but, alas! poor Tom’s fingers war hooman magnets, war they; he couldn’t — up a bit 0’ iron ’cept et stuck to *em, an’ so one ay he accidentally touched a ring in ther bits o’ Vigilante Newton’s horse, an’ as Tom war emmigra- tin’ ter another deestrict, an’ as thar war no one — “Great ham-bone, yes!” Avalanche ejaculated, ee oe his seat, and grasping Charlie’s hand, cordially, , : a course we’ll be famuss friends, an’ no mis- ake _And while they were shaking hands, there eame a heavy rap on the door, followed by three more in quick succession!“ ~ . t CHAPTER III. : : LIEUTENANT CRESSLY—LILY—THE PROWLERS. Tue ruffian, MeTurk, after the departure of Cordu- roy Charlie, was lifted by a number of his associates) who chanced to come up, and borne up the valley toa rude log cabin, where he lived, when he lived any- wherein particular. Here he wasplaced upon a’rude bed, and wounds attended to in the best possible manner, after which he was left alone, and his at- tendants returned to participate in the masquerade at Pretzel Pete’s. For weil they might desire to es- cape from the abusive bullwhacker’s cabin, where the atmosphere seemed pregnant with the fumes of foul whisky and the ring of more biting curses. For it was to the latter two evils that MeTurk resorted to find vent to his feelings and blunt the pain of his two wounds. And @ good hand was he at it, as ap hour's unceas- ing torrent of oaths and guzzling from a demijohn proved, At the end of that time, however, his stcek of wind was pretty well exhausted, and the tarant‘ler one whereupon there prevailed more quiet in the cabin, bal A About this time a docr was opened,and a man stepped into the apaitment, taking the precaution to bar the doorafter him. | / He then turned toward the cot where McTurk lay, and the lamp-light streaming full upon him, reveal e a striking form, clad in purple velvet from head to ‘ foot—a_ man, whose face wes masked and whise . hair fell quite to the faultless masculine waist. The eyes that gleamed through the holes in ‘the mask, however, were restless and flery in their glances, and the fingers of the gloved bands worked convul- sively as the stranger ap roacbed the bedside. MeTurk rolled over w footsteps, and swore an introductory oath when he saw who was his visitor, * The devil, lieutenant“is it you?” he growled, en- deavoring to raise himself on his elbow, and par- ary succeeding. ‘l’min a purty fix, ain’t 1?” “T should say sol” the lieutenant assented. ““Who’s been going through you, Mac?” “Thunderation ! hain’t ye heerd o’ et, yit? Why, xs see, 1 got salted by a ‘eller they call Corduroy Charlie, Ten ter one, ye see, an’I hedn’, ther smell o’ a show. I dropped six o’ ’em, howsumever, afore I caved in.” ; “HWumph! what’s your idea in telling me such a ees ete when I was present and witnessed the ue’ oh What you, Lieutenant Cressly? The dogs, you say!” ‘ ‘I was_ present,’’ was the calm assurance, ‘‘and saw the young bravo.plug it to you solid!” “Yes, he did. an’ no mistake. Ther pet bull- whacker o’ the Telefone line got basted, an ‘don’ ye forgit et. But thar’s a better day a-comin’, when old Jem MeTurk ‘ll ao buckle on his armor, an’ sail in like a buffler bull. Whoop-ee!l”’ And the wounded “ tough” gave a loud yell as he announced his premeditated action upon the enemy. “You must take care of yourself!” Cressly said, glancing at his watch, ‘and get on your pegs as soon as possible, for you'll be needed directly. Vil keep an eye on thls Corduroy Charlie: and when you get around, report, at once Where is Monk Morgan, Grizzly George and the other boys?” “Oh! I sent ’em off ona leetle poets snap o’my own!” was the reply, with a chuckle. Sen “Take eare you don’t Ted many of those etle! snaps 0’ yours, McTurk, t ou ne agroan, as he heard the : Rang, 0’ galoots, led by a

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matters, or you'll git salted, firstye know. The old she tiger shot Mully Miiler thr’u’ ther heart, yester- _ day, on a suspicion 0’ treachery.” “Curse her,’ McTurk gasped, a grayish pallor stealing over his bloated face—‘*she ar’ a werry old fienless, lieutenant. An’I bet—but nevyer mind. Got any whisky about ye?” z “Nary adrop. Be good ter yourself, and remem- ber there is work waitin’ fer you to do.” * Yes yes, an’ bloody work; too!” tie bullwhacker mitttered, as the door closed behind tie departing . visitor. “Itis but a few hours, comparatively, tilk that cussed sacrifice tak-s place. An’ who'll be ther victim—aha! wao? Why not the cuss who put me hor3a—the young whelp who call himself, Cor.iaroy Charlie? By all the furies, I'd love tosee him the vi tim—yos! and he stall be the victim, [swear it. T 12 warriors of the Sun shall not go hungry for their s.crifice, this time.” And a gleam horrible to behoid was in the gaze of the ruffiin, as be lay helpless upon the cot and glared around ths room, Corduroy Charlie’s wazon-train, .athe mean time, had moved on up the strost, and turned off into the dark valley. When tiey were in a favorable spot, according to the judgment of Bad Medicine, a halt was made, and the weary mules were unhitched, honpled and turned out to grass. While Bid Medicine was engaged in this work, Clever Sam Yung, the Celestial, gathered fuel .and built a camp-fire near the wazon, and proceeded to haul out provision and various culinary utensils from ths rear en! of the wagon. He was an odd-looxing genius, this Chinaman, with the unmistakable Chinese face and almond eyes, and form stumpy, fat and squatty. There was a sharp, cunning expression to his features, to», whieh waS sufficient proof that he was not as dumb as he looked. Afstrong contrast was he witn the brawny, big-bodied red-skin, with his uncut hair, and the grim expression of conntenance—a face re- - markable for its fatness, gleaming black eyes, large red nose—fiery red, too—and a huge mouth with lips out-generaling those of an African. After finishing caring for ths mules, Bad Medicins drove sone stakes aroun! the camp and put up a |’ si ling of canvas, leaving the sky fora roofing. This kept off the fierce wind which was blowing down the valley, in advane: of the storm that threatened to burst and descend in torrents at any minute, The sky was‘in’cy black, and the thunder * growled in hoarse Fhcyes notes its warning for the pedestrian to seek hastily forshelter. “Uzh! Pig-Tail man better much burry, or rain put out him fire!’ Bad Medicine advised, as he finish- ed his work, and seated himself, pipe in hand, on a loz before the erackling blaze. _ © Rddee-skinee man no telles Clever Sam muchee news!” the Celestial replied, hurrying about briskly. \*“Molican manee muchee smartee; Chines man know muchee as ‘Malican, you bettea!” 1“ Wagh! Pig- tail know hep like prairie buzzard!"’ Bid Melicine soned, expressing his disgust in the pus he toak at his pips. ** He no good—wn !"" “ Reddee-skinee! reddwe-skinee!”’ mocked Sam, dancing about, with a ludicrous grin on his flat, homely features. ; “Chinee_ lickee reddee-skinee in fivee minnits. He! he! Reddes-skinee he no goodee Muchee big _ shackassee—no goodee welly pidgin, he! hel’? Bad Medicine on!y grunted at this. *Piz-Tail dog; no fight leetle baby,” he observed, after a thoughtful silence. ‘He like Injun squaw, only good to cook meat, an’ mind lodge. He no go hunt elk. or kill cinnamon bear.” And thus they had it, back and forth, while Clever Sam prepared coffee and roasted meat over the _ eracking camp fire, in a really creditable style. MRS Pde ane meal was ok Bad ener aside _ his pipe, and approaching the canvas-covered wagon, parted the curtains and peeredin, : Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. = A lantern swung from the top of the frame-work, and diffused a dim light through the interior. Among __ the other contents of the wagon was a couch made of skins, and_on this, half sitting, half reclining, was — a young girl. ; she was fair-haired aud fair-faced, with brown eyes like to those of Corduroy Charlie, and avburn hair, which fell unconfined upon bershoulders. But the form, alas! Nature had not done its work well. _ The lower limbs were drawn and shrunken, and onl: thé arms and trank of the body were left perfect. handsome pair of crutches lay near the crippled girl, and spoke of her only’ means of locomo- tion. “Will de Lily come?” Bad Medicine asked, as he peered into t .e wagon, ‘‘ We have eaten of elk-meat ot and coffee to offer the pale face maiden,” -| reddee-skinee so quickee like ceinias den stealee With a weary sigh the girl nodded, and half crawl. eito the aperture, where Bad Medicine received her in his arms and carried her to the camp-fire, where he seated her upon a camp-stool which Clever Sam had been Spry enough to procure, Then, when the_ firelight fel, full upon her fac», you could see what was hidden from view in the dim light of the wagon —the wildness of those duskish brown eyas, and the — ained? piteous expression of the face, which would — ave been of marked beauty but for it. An expression of peculiar tender sympathy man- tled the features of the stolid red-skin. as he stood with folded arms, and gazed a moment downinto ~~ the face of the Lily, as he had called her. * Even the flat, judiercus countenance of Clever — Sam was drawn into a sober cast, which made it all the more comical. : “- _ ‘Charlie! where is he? Where are we, Bad Medi- cine?’ the cripple demanded, as her wild gaze took in the surroundings. and she made the discovery that. Charlie was absent. ‘ Whereis my brether? Has he killed Dion Avery yet?” t saves “No; the brother of the fair lily is now in search é of the white devil. He willsoon be here, perhaps, wid white debbil’s scalp.” x: “And where are we now?” : “In de valley of Castle Creek, where flowers grow. Will the Lily éat now. that she get strength till my white brudder come?” nee, pate wisdom in his words, njun’s shirt an’ cook—no much good.” ckee kee debbil. Evil and aed Jo It was the rufflan, Monk Morgan, who had spoken, eveled directly upon runk away wi hoarse laugh to

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the lips of Morgan as he leaned further over the eanvas, “Don’t be afeard, gall’ he said, in a low, mock- ing tone. ‘‘We ain't a-goin’ ter hurt ye, nary a time. See’d a light down heer, an’ as we constitute a kiud o’ Peace-Patrol to the town, we thort we'd better look inter matters.” “Ugh! what pale-faces wan?” Bad Medicine de- manded, as he reached for his rifle, which stood against the wagon. ‘ De Lily much ‘fraid ob stran- gers A go on from de camp “Hello! what d’ye say, Injun? Wego away, be- ea’se you say so? Phew! d’ye ever heer ther ekal, pets S’posin’ we give him a h‘ist ter glory, jest fer un?’ “Ugh! pale-faces better keep away!’ Bad Medi- eine said, resolutely rais' and cocking his rifle. “Dey mean no good to the White Lily, an’ better go mind deir business, or Bad Medicine will shoot!” “*Hel he! he!~ Reddee-skinee shootee!"’ assented Clever Sam, with a tickled smile. ‘‘ He badee ’Meli- can man; gitt~e muchee on his muscle!” “Wal, ye kin put down yer sbutin’ instrument, red-skin!” Monk Morgan said, with a stare hard at poor Lily. ‘‘ We'll make ourselves skeerce, ef we're sech horrid objects as frighten the gal, yander. We don’t want: ter be mistook fer rough custo’rers, us Peace Commissioners. oh! no. Adieu, red-skin; adieu, pig-tail! Come round ter Pretzel Pete’s an’ we'll gitye staven drunk, fer puttin’ in a good word ferus. Au rero r, young leddy—pleasant dreams ter ye! Hol ho! hol! Come along boys!” And off tramped the roughs, with shouts of langh- ter, whieh made the vale ring— much to the relief of both Lily Madison and Bad Medicine, who could but interpret danger from their coming. A Poor Lily! : She little knew or guessed what those same ruf fians were to be to her. : , CHAPTER IV. IN THE ‘BIG SCHOONER”—CLEVER SAM GOES OUT WITH MORGAN. Buster” looked at Old Avalanche in alarm and dismay, as she heard the raps. “lt is he!’ she gasped, glancing nervously around mas he must not sce me to-night. Where can i hide?” “Great ham-bone! w’at’s ther yearthly use o’ git tin’ skeered, Git behind ther screen—no! I won't admit *im; that's ther way ter fix *im.”” The beautiful girl arose quickly and glided behind the Spore while the veteran scout approached the door. : To Charlie all this was an enigma, and he secretly oF ge Sel who it was that ‘‘ Buster” was so afraid of. + The raps were now repeated with- greater force, until the old door trembled under them. * Hello! grat ham-bone that fotyzraffed ther jarynx of old Joner! who’s out thar, an’ what d’ye want this stormy night?’—for the patter of rain upon the roof besvoke the f ct that the storm was _ beginning to descend, “Tis I,-Lieutenant Cressly,”’ was the gruff reply. * Come! you cursed old wolf, let me in out o’ the rain, before I kill you!” * **Ken’t come in hyar—great explorative Moses who s’arched out ther great natteral secrits o’ ther bullrushes, no! This ar’ my cabin, ar’ this same tie o' logs, an’ you chalk et fine. ‘An’ as fer yer hullsale slaughterin’ o' this great equinoxyel gust o’ skurgin’ disease, ye mought as well attempt ter argy ter an Injun thet taranrt’ler ar’ not fit fer a hoss ter drink, Ken‘t cum in ter-night, Mr. Cressly, fer ye see as how I am werry sleepy, an’ don’t wan rs 3 fierce onse. ‘Dye 8’ out h soakin’ Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. . ; the Santis eae ales) z wet: all mien, waitin’ your motion? Come! come! open the door, I say!” ¥ “Great a’riferous ham-bone! I’m orful sorry. I'u- tenant, but I reely ken’t accommodate ye. Cum scme other time when Buster’s home.” “She is in there now.” , » “Bet ye a bunt from ther head-géear o’ my old goat, Flor’nce Night-in-a-gale, durned ef I won't; or a eee bottle o’ 160 fire-test tarant’ler, by Je- ru m1’ “Where is she, then, curse ye?” “Waal nov. thet’s askin’ me a purty p’inted uestion, considerin’ ther fac’ thet my scope 0’ vi- sion ain’t werry ex ended. ‘Spcet ye better look fer her over at Pretzel Pete’s.”’ ; There was a curse from the outside again; a mo- ment’s pause, during which the rain poured cown the heavier, and then the lieutenant was heard tramping off, swearing like a trooper. “Thar!” Old Avalanche said, turning back toward the fire, with a chuckle. ‘‘ One more galoot sent off ther trail. Ye kin cum cut, Buster!” The pil accepted the invitation, but when she ap- peared jt was in a short Spanish suit of velvet, liber- ally slashed with gold trimmings, the skirt reaching just high enough to expose a pretty pair of slippers and ankles to view. There was a pretty flush upon her cheeks as_she eaught the admiring expression in Corduroy Char- lie’s eye. Could Charlie but have noticed it, there was a reciprocating light in her eyes, waich sparkled like diamonds. ; “Aha! heer comes our peauty!? Avalanche ex- claimed, witha grunt cf approbation. ‘ Purtiest gal that evyer buckled a button, boyee, an’ hayr’s w’at ‘ll sw’ar ter et.” ‘To which lef me add my opinion that you are ratty nearly right!” put in Charlie, with a pleasant augh. ‘But you must now excuse me, for I must necessarily be going.”’ an “Going! whar, fer lordy’s sake?” “To my wagon-train, which I sent to camp some- where in this valley. 1 have there a sister and a pair of trusty servants, who bave accompammied me into this country and I must look after them."* “Great ham-bone, yes; but w’at d’ye calkylate ye kin do in thes rain an’ darkness? Wait till old Sun shows bis face. an’ then ye’ll hev twice ther prospect 0’ findin’ ’em, aided as ye'll be by thes yere great In- jun eppydemic o’ destruction,” And so it was that Corduroy was induced to wait at the eabin, which was in no way or manner a disa- greeable ay since Buster was there to make thi radiant with her merry presence; and Old Avalanche, too, added to the pleasantness as only he in his ec-. centric way could do, , Shortly after the departure of Monk Mofgan and his “peace commissioners.”’ the rain began to de-» scend, and poor Lily Madison signified her readiness to be lifted back into the wagon, whose covering was waterproof, and had been ber shelter for many a long day’s ride through the wild West. Seat So Bad Medicine accordingly lifted her back into the vehicle, and-followed her, bimself, for the large — ; drops were pattering down freely, Clever Sam siill sat by the camp-fire, devouring what was left of the evening’s repast, voraciously. “Ugh! Pig-Tail man get good wet if stay outside!” the red-skin observed, as he sat with his long buck- skin-clad legs dangling out of the front end of the wagon. ‘Do him hé-p good.” : “Chinee man no *fraidee muchee water!’ Sam re- plied, finishing the last scrap with a sigh, which could searcely be interpreted_as one of relief. ; ‘“Molican man muchee fraidee water; muchee dirtee; no geodee. Chinee span cleanee; gittee muchee nice ‘Melican gir) for wifee ” ey ; “Warh! Pig-Tail heap big lie! No white maiden notice man with frog eyes. Where goin’? for the Celestial was evidently making preparations to leave

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_ ture, the sound of which cause: \ “'Sh!”? Clover Sam replied, with a crafty smile upon his flat visage, and a warning nod toward the wagon, “Chinee man muchee dry — go gittee whiskee—muchee finee whiskee. Reddee-skinnee keepee still. Chinee git whiskee of 'Melican man, an’ bringea to reddee-skinnee.” F A And then he made a dive and ee in the darkness. If Bad Medicine had any thought of not allowing the Celestial to leave camp, he made no at- tempt to stop him; but a strange, eager gleam shot into his eyes, and his lips parted and shut almost with a smack. P 2 “What is it, Bad Medicine?” Lily Madison asked, from her couch of furs. ‘Didn't you speak?” ‘‘No! Injun no say anyt’ing!’’ was the grim re- sponse. ‘* He listen an’ hear de tears fall from sky. He no like rain; like to see him fair‘an’ de sun shine. Injun feel white when sun shine; feel debbil w’en de sky Pecos he ss *Why don’t Charlie come, chief?” ‘* Bad Medicine don’ know. Pale-face youth much bravo; he lick painter by dozen—take care of him- ony He come back all right, when sun shine in valley.” “Oh! T hope so)” was the sad reply. ‘“‘Oh! Lord how long! how long! before my vengeance?” Tn the mean time, the shrewd and scheming Clever gaat was skurrying back onto the main street of the own. ; He wadiled along, cutting rather a queer figure. and attracting general attention, for as yet none o' his almond-eyed brethren had graced the streets or society of Quartz City. 7 But he took no notice of the jeering remarks of the crowds, but kept on until he came to Pretzel Pete’s establisimen, which he entered and ranged himself along the bar, where there were also a crowd of roughs and miners, absorbing the moisture that big Pete served out at two bits a finger, P “ Hello! vat you say?” Pretzel Pete exclaimed, as he discovered the Celestial; “vat is dish you haff here? Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! ish dot a monkey, or ish et a shackass mit his tail on his het?” ; ‘‘Haw! haw! don’ ye kno’, Pete? Thet’s a China- man! Ther very furst arrival in thes tropical latti- tude o’ Quartz City. A real live almond-eyed galoot!” ie mec of the roughs, ‘I say, Pig-Tail, w’at’s yer jay-out? N hinee man no havee layee-out! *Melican man muchee mistakee. He no knowee Chinee man. Chinee man washee-washee ’Melican man’s shirtee; 2 te man payee Chinee man five bitsee. Hel! he e)? . ‘ “Hol hol So thel?s yer lay-out, hey? A washee- washee right from the old school, eh? Waal, waal! What d’ye think o’ him, Pretzel Peter the Great?” “Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina? Ish dot der kind off a veller vat you call a Chinaman? We gahis, China; how you vas? Vat'll you haff at your own exbense?”’ *Nixy! Chinee man no drinkee whiskee. Wantee man callee Monkee Morgan—wantee see Monkee Morgan welly much!” “Hoo-o ray!” yelled the rough, with a bellow of laughter, as he danced up and down. “Hip! yip! hooray! Monkey Morgan! haw! haw! haw! thet’s too rich ter digest on an empty stomach, Set out thet long black-necked bottle o’ p’izen, Pret- ze] Peter ther Great—set her out T say, an’ charger ther contents ter Andy Adair, ther man wi’ ther coal-black hair, who kin make a preecher sware he’s neither fat ner spare. Hoo! hoo! hoo! kerwhoop! onkey Morgan! haw! haw! thet beats last yeer’s almanack jokes all ter blazes. Fer instance, jest— ‘* Monkey Morgan played the organ, Hes father war a bum, at eRy His sister—” “Hello!” roared a stentorian voice, ab this junc- d Mr. /Andy Adair to cease his rude vocal effort—“ who’s ther galoot as a cas i Corduroy Chariie, the Boy Bravo. a durst take thername o’ Monk Morganinvain? Show — me ther cuss w’ile I chaw off his ear!” ‘ ‘“Whoa-a-r up, Morgan!’ Andy said, with a pri 7 beset ‘s We war jest hevin’ a larf at ther Celestial, who war inquirin’ fer Monkey Morgan—haw! haw Ww! “Ther devil! The Chinaman here!’ Morgan cried, fastening his gaze gon the Celestial, whose time was equally divided between the copious lunch on | the bar and a watch on the door. ; The temptation to remain near the lunch seemed greater than to escape from the rough companion- ship into which he had fallen. “Hello! I say, ye pig-tailed rascal!” Morgan re- eated advancing closer, with one hand upon the andle of a revolver. ‘ Why don’t yer look up an’ salute ther king cock o’ ther roost, as ther rest 0’ ther b’yees do?’ “Nixy! nixy!)’ Clever Sam replied, with a shake — of his head, and a eee “Ohinee man no cea ‘Melican man—salutee lunchee —muchee ‘00 : ee Shimminy ea unt my wife, Katrina!” ex- claimed Pretzel Pete, in utter astonishment, as he saw his pretzels and sweitzer-case and sauer-kraut fast fading from view. ‘‘ Dot veller haff abbetite so large ash several hogs. Ss ‘*So he has, Pretzel Peter, but he is nowhere along- side of you, with your big circumference.” ‘“Melican man havee muchee big body—muchee bigger Chinee man!” allowed Sam, casting his eyes at the blonde-haired German. ‘‘Chinee man no eatee so much as ’Melican man,” " “Waal, let’s drop the subject, an’ test our tank- age—my. treat!’ pepsres ndy Adair, “Pretzel Peter, where’s thet bottle I ordered?” “Yes; shimminy gracious vat hash pecome off it?” the German exclaimed, staring round ain dismay. “T shoost sets dot pottle on der counter, so sure’s my name’s Peter'Von Schemmerhorn, ont nowhim gone—sdole! Tiefs! t’iefs!” 3 sper “Search the Chinee! Ill bet he’s got eb stowed away !"’ cried Monk Morgan. . And accordingly a rush was made at Cleyer Sam, with the result of producing the missing boftle from under the semi-gown which he wore. - “There! cuss ye!” Morgan exclaimed—'t w’at ye got ter say fer yerself fer stealin’ Pretzel Pete’s tar- ant’lor? What d’ye steal the prizen fer?” *“Ghinee man. no, stealee p’izen!” Sam chattered back, with his ludicrous face drawn down to its soberest possible expression, ‘‘ Chinee man borrow p'izen to killee rats wi’ fromee ’Melican. He no stealee—no stealee, nottee muchee!” * Waal, all ven Let ther galoot off, this time, boys,” Monk organ said, with a coarse laugh. ‘* Comee alonzee, ve durned almond-eyed cuss, fer Tve got a leetle bizness with. ye. Drinkall round at — my expense till T rejoin ye, pilgrims. Come, Celes- — tial, T want to talk turkey to you!” 1 at “Shimminy gracious, unt my vife, Katrinal” breathed Pete, as the two men took their departure. — pe der kind off a veller vat you call a China- man Nyse “Yes, Pretzel Peter,” responded Mr, Andy Adair, — with a swagger; ‘‘thet’s a real live Celestial, an’ L hev heerd et remarked thet them same galoots greatly resembled ther Germans.” be “Vat! vat you say? Dose flat-faced, shackass — cuss look like der Shermans? Dunder an’ plitzen!”” And Pretzel Pete looked wrathfully into the mir- ror that graced his bare shelf, to satisfy himself that his round, shiny face bore no resemblance to the ludicrous visage of Clever Sam. } te “T know’d ash how et vas von shoke, shendlemen, unt you didn’t fool me so badder ash you t’ought. But shoost vait avile, ondil dot Chinaman pokes his” head in dish place ag’in; den I giff him somedinks he — ihrem 2.4 don’t vant!” ee into the stre “4

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; Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. x =) | nl CHAPTER V. } A DISCOVERY OF TREACHERY—THE WARNING. As soon as day was hardly yet breaking upon the _ horizon, Corduroy Charlie announced that he must take his departure. “I bope, however, to have the pleasure of meeting you again, Miss ——,”’ he said, addressing the glo- riously beautiful girl. “Your name I do not really think becoming for so pretty a young lady, and I hesitate to address you by it.’ * ©Then should you meet me again. you may call me Lena Vernon!” was the reply, after which the shoek hands, and Charlie and Avalanche set fort into the early soos of the morning. The Bo | Bravo’s arm had by this time ceased to be painful, and he was thankful that he had received no worse injuries at the hands of the rough and villainously- inclined McTurk, After learning which way Corduroy had sent his wagon, Avalanche shaped his course as near as he could in the direction in which he calculated they might have camped, and they set out. When the darkness had sufficiently rolled away, so that an unobstructed view of the valley could be had, both Avalanche and Corduroy Charlie paused S a little eminence and glanced searchingly around em. , “*Ah! I seesthem!” Charlie exclaimed, pointing off to the southeast; ‘“‘ yonder where there are but few shanties. See! a wagon surrounded by a siding of eanvas. That’s the rig in which I’ve traveled into every mining strike in the Black Hills country.” “Perzactly: an’ why’ve ye at last fetched up hyar, byee?” the Annihi'ator asked, as they resumed their tramping. ‘*‘Reckon ye’re more fitted fer a down east bandbox!” “Haj ha! that’s where you mistake me. I’ve roughed it a good deal during my couple of years’ experience in this country, and seen about as many tough sights and customers as any one of my age. You ask me why I came here to Quartz City. I can- not tell you why now. It is on account cf a crippled sister whom I have down yonder at the wagon. When you see her, and her condition, you may guess that only some grievous wrong could induce’ me to fetch her here. It looks quiet about the camp yonder; maybe they’re all maT yet.” : ‘“Great aristocra‘ic ham-bone! et kinder Jukes thet way, as ef she war desarted.” Without further comment the two men hurried on and soon Charlie Bi aside the canvas and peered into the front end of the wagon, : “* My God! gone!” he gasped, reeling back as if he had been dealt a blow. ‘‘She is not in there!” “Thunder! ye don’t tell us? Great Moses! thet war ther first mortal evyer ter populate ther historic bull rushes, Sumthin’ hes worked in ther wrong roove, as old Sally Jenks used ter say when ther njun heathen got inter his corn-crib. So’ ther gal’s gone, is she?” “Yes, gone! and also my servants!” Charlie froaned. staring about for an explanation to the matter. ‘They have turned traitor and spirited her off—Heaven knows where!” “Wat war ther pedigree an’ caliber 0’ yer pards! Mebbe we kin trace ’em up an’ recover the gal.” “‘One was a Chinaman, whom I have retained as a servant for ever a year. I called him Clever Sam. The other was a red-skin chief called Bad Medicine, whom T could have sworn by,: any time—which makes the mysterv greater now!” \: “A Chinaman an’a red nigger! Great molestive ham bone, w’at war a hell gate ter old Joner’s larynx! an’ye left yer sister in ther purtection 0° _ sech_a blarsted crew?” “Yas, as | have repeatedly done so in the past. I _ would have trusted either of them to any amount.” “Waal. thet shows thet ye ain’t a pilgrim in these boreal lattytudes an’ longytoads. Trust an Injun or - aCelestyal? Great ham-bone; I’d as soon trust my oi goat, Florence Night-in-a-gale in the presiden- he Es a Ow o, tyal cheer. Once she got thar, she’d show ’em plenty o'Sarcus.” : “Well, I cannot stand here talking when my poor sister may be needing me to defend her. I must hunt her up.” “Perzactly, as old Samantha Pruggles sed ter Deacon Joues when he squeezed her hand an’ pro- posed they connect fer life. But how’re.ye goin’ ter work w’en ye ain’t got no sign?” “T don’t know, but I must make a move somehow. Hark!” sa Agroan just then wafted to their hearing—a sort of grunt and groan combined, as if some person were just wakening from a deep sleep. sh: was that?” Charlie demanded, with a start. “T shed reckon et war a kind o’ a hooman sound!" Avalanche replied, with a grim expression in the corners of his mouth. ‘Leastways, it cum from thet clump 0’ bushes over yender, an’ I allow we'd better investigate.” : Accordingly they hurried over to the spot, and in a moment had pulled out of the bushes the ‘\peawny figure of Bad Medicine, the chief. “Drunk as ary old beast!’ Avalanche exciaimed. “See; here’s his bottle, empty of every drop 0’ moisture.” “He must have had more than the contents of that cne bottle to stupefy him, for his Spree for whisky is marked for at least a gallon!” Charlie re- plied with a smile, as he gazed at the red-skin, who appeared in a state of beastly intoxication. * Mebbe he’s bin drugged,” Avalanche suggested. “Tn that case, ve got a leetle raccoon’s ile hayr, w’at’ll fetch him ter limericks.”” He produced a small vial from his tocket, and forcing open the savage’s mouth, poured a few drops down his throat. The effect was startling. The eyes suddenly began to unclose, and Bad Medicine sprung to his feet with au ear-splitting yell which rung out and echoed oa the clear morning air, “Ugh! fire! fire!’ he erfed, clutching his head be- tween his-hands and dancing frantically around. “Great ham-bone, no, red-skin!” the Annihilator snorted, as he himself stood half-doubled up with convulsive laughter, ‘‘You’ve got the ‘James’ ther wu’st sort. Don’t ye see them snakes in yer boots? Haw! haw!*haw! talk about yer devastatin’ eppy- demies, will ye?—about yer rip-roarin’ decoctations o’ supervised exstinction, will ye? Tl) bet ther pelt ° ons old Florence Coréeliar thet ye ken’t find a purtier subject this side o’ = tory.” “What's the matter with him?” Corduroy asked, as the chief continued to roar and bellow around at a fearful rate, ‘Nuthin’ only a leetle raccoon’s ile ter settle his brain!” Avalanche answered. “ He'll be better soon —thar, didn’t I tell ye so?” as the red-skin sudden- ly ceased his gyrations, to stare around in a be- wildered manner. “ Why, boyee, I’ve known thet same raccoon’s ile ter cure a mano’ the ‘jams’ in quicker time then my old mare Prudence ked shock a man wi’ ther electricity o’ her hind fect. Fac’, by gracious!"” f : “Ugh! fire burn berry much here!” Bad Medicine grunted, rubbing his cranium. “ Oh! thet war but a shuger-lump ter w’at ye’ll git w’en old Gabr’el blows his fish-horn, Injun!” “Rad Medicine!” Corduroy Charlie said, sternly, “how is it that Iecome back to camp and find my sister and Clever Sam gone, and you dead drunk ?— how can you explain the matter?’ The chief started violently, and gave a glance to- ward the deserted wagon. 1 “De White Lily gone?” he articulated huskily, a PO an! fire shooting into his eyes. ‘Bad Medicine runk?” : “Just so. When I returned, a few moments wae I found the camp deserted, and discovered you ] < Z :

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10 in these bushes, dead drunk. Now I want an expla- nation, or down goes your shanty instanter.” ©Uzh! Bad Medicine berry much fool!”? was the answer. ‘He let Pig-Tail man go out of camp. He come back and gib Bad Medicine bottle of whisky. Bad Medicine drink him, an’ dat’s all he know.” “ Ha! then it was the raseally Chinaman, eh, who has done this deviltry in my camp?’’ “Yes, Pig-Tail man heap no good. He treacher- ous like de painter; he steal like de debbil—ugh! bad | man!” “ Great demonstrative ham-bone thet thunder- bolted old Joner’s larnyx! Thet’s jest ther way wi’ one o’ them almond eyed galoots!”’ broke in the An- nihilator, *‘‘ Nevyer know’d one yet as wouldn’t sell ’em fer tooth-picks. An’ for drinkin’ whisky. be ken’t beat ’em. But come; if we’re goin’ ter take ther war-path, et’s time we war startin’, W'at d’ye propose ter do, boyee?” “There seeme no alternative but to make quiet inquiries for Clever Sam, and after we find im, foree him to tell what has become of my sister,’ Corduroy Charlie replied, thoughtfully, *‘ He it evi- dently was who had an agency in the abduction, and aay we find him we have little hope of discov- ering Lily. f f A Bad edicine take war-path!”’ said the chief, savagely. *‘No come back till he git White Lily an’ Piz-Tail’s scalp. Ugh!” “Bully fer you, red-skin; but mind, ef you play any shenanigan on us, 'll annihilate ye like I hev thousands 0’ yer tribe—teetotally become yer last sickness,” Without deigning to notice the old scout’s threat, Bad Medicine strode away to the wagon for his rifle and then across the vale toward the main streets 0: Je aes with long, swinging strides that counted rapidly. ; R He is in a gloomy mood, and woe be to Clever Sam if he gets in the red-skin’s way!’? Corduroy said. ‘“‘And as there is nothing here to detain us, except an old wagon and a few traps, I propose that we branch out and work till we find a trail. é They accordinzly separated, Avalanche first giv- ing the younz Bravo some instructions in regard to e-rtain dens of iniquity and vice in the town which were dangerous to visi : The Annihilator went back in the direction of Lena Vernon’s, while Charli» kept on toward the main part of the town, where Bad Medicine had gone. In nearing one of-the many scattered cabins, he heard a vile string of oaths, and ee through a window as he passed, he beheld Jim MeTnrk sit- ting up in bed, attempting to use his arms, which , was a@ painful operation, owing to the wounds, in ~ either side, elbow high. “Ha! so "tis in here that my enemy nurses his wrath, eh?’ the young Bravo muttered as he kept on. ‘Well, I don’t believe he has anything to do with the abduction of Lily orl’d go in there and choke the breath out of him. Can it be that the enemies mentioned in the anonymous note I receiv- ed a few days ago, have begun their deadly cam- paign against me?” ‘ _ As if impressed with the idea, he paused in his walk, and drew a crumpled note from his pocket. With a perplexed knitting of the brows, he perused it several times over, without sceming to derive any satisfaction from it. It ran as follows: “ Custmr Crry, “Mr. Corpuroy CHarLie:— “As a friend to your interests, leb me advise you not to visit the mining strike, in or near the National __ Park section of the hills, known as Quartz City. For . there are enemies there who know of your coming— bitter enemies whom you know not, but who have been your enemies since your birth. Your parent- age has ever been a matter of doubt to you; these foes know much concerning it. and will attempt to smite you, out of revenge’s sake, Keep clear of Quartz City lest you learn that which would be of no Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. e relish to you—lest Ae are struck by enemies when least expected, and of whom you never dreamed. Your mission in this country is one of no Christian character, Letyyour objec: be consummated by One who has a higher cause than you. “AN UNENOWN FRIEND.” “No! no! I will let out the object tono other hands than mine!” Corduroy Charlie gritted fiercely, as he kept oa toward the town. CHAPTER VI. THE WARDVILLES—DEADWOOD DICK TELLS THE STORY OF LEONE’S FALL. An incoming stage brought with it to Quartz City a Ohioan and his wife, whose names were Ward~ ville. The man was a large, well-proportioned person, of forty-five years, with a kindly expression of face and eyes, showing him to be of mild temper and exceed- ing honest, good-nature, He wore his beard crop- | ped rather short; was dressed. in plain but substan- tial clothing, and wore a.cable-chain across his vest of solid gold. $ 3 His wife was a fitting companion for the pleasant-__ appearing Ohioan—a quiet little matronly woman with a placid face and plump form, and was dressed with the same taste yet plainness of raiment which characterized the husband. She too, however, wore expensive jewelry. he stage deposited the Wardvilles in front of Pretzel Pete’s establishment, along with a pair of large Saratogas, and then rattled away down the \ street, leaving the Ohioan and his wife staring at the uninviting front of the ‘‘ Big Schooner,” which was_ pasted over with such flaring labels and signs as— “ Lager Bier, four bits;” ‘‘Sweitzer Kase unt Pret- zels;”’ ‘160 fire test 'farant’ler, fifty cents a pint.” “Humph!” the Ohioan ejaculated, as he viewed things, generally, “Tt a Pip to me, Madge, that Quartz City can’t boast of superior accommodations in the way of hotels, if this is the best. It’s nothing more or less than a lager beer saloon,” y 5 ¥ “True, Judson; but perhaps we cannot find better quarters,” replied Mrs. .Wardville. “Loox! there E comes the PEsyeioton now,’ and she pointe to Pret- % zel Pete, who, on seeing the disembarked strangers ‘ before his door, had hastened out to investigate, “ Good-mornings—how you vas?” hesalused, ashe ~~ waddled down the steps. set “We were just looking for the best hotel which — our stage-driver_ assured us existed somewhere in this vicinity! Wardville replied, s' aking hands with the good-natured German. ‘‘ Maybe you can tell us where it is, sir.” “Shimminy gracious, yes. Dot vasmy blace ter a dot, Der* Big Schooner’ ish der leading hodel mit er city. Walk right in, for I haff swi’ rooms up- stairs vot tickle you right mitshoy. Dis vay, blease!”” and the proprietor of the Big Schooner opened a side door which admitted them into a hallway. —_ On ascending a staits they soon found themselves. domiciled in a suit of two rooms, directly overthe saloon part of the building, which were tastefully — furnished for being almost at the extreme limits of civilization, with warm-tinted wool carpets, sofa fur- niture and a luxurious bed in the smaller room, = ther with pictures on the walls, and other orname' of an adorning nature. fe * Eb? vat you say?” Pretzel Pete ejaculated, as the Wardyvilles gave a sigh of relief. _‘* How vas dis — for vatermellon, eh? Don’t got fooled; vas?’ By “ The rooms are satisfactory,” said Judson Ward-— ville, with a bow, “and as long as we sojourn in _ Quartz City we will keep them. You may now send us up a good dinner, if you please.” Pretzel Peter bowe 1 graciously, and des.cnded the stairs, full of glory over his success in capturing a pair of guests of the upper ten. — - ah As for the Wardvilles, they were only too glad to _find themselves in such comfortable quarters, after their rough tour through the Hills, : ;

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. 1% | Their trunks were soon brought up, and after them came a savory meal of roast game, rye bread and coffee, with a small bottle of Rhine wine, which however, was left untouched. ‘Well, we are here, and have taken our first meal {n Quartz City, wife ” Mr. Wardville said. ‘ipping hack io his seat, and lighting a cigar, at the close o the repast. ‘ The next question is—what are we here for?” - “That question needs no answer, between us, Jud- son,” Mrs. Wardville replied. ‘“You know what faint clew-brought us here, and how we have hoped and Eyed for a glad realization.” es! yes! but somehow, I have put rather an in- differents rt of confidence in the matter, all along. Jt would not surprise me if our hopes should be real- ized—it would not surprise me to find them defeat- “You speak strangely, Judson!” “Dol? Well, then, it is because I have long since deadened my faitlf in the matter. As long as we have been pursuing the faint hope, unsuccessfully, LT have constantly been losing interest in the chase. I marvel that my hair and beard have not turned white, ere this.’ “True, you have undergone much, dear husband, as well as myself, but I am pressed with the belicf that our trusting faith in God, at all times, has ina measure preserved us,”’ * Well—well, meness I cannot say as to that; but certainly pure faith in the Ail-wise Creator works no man evil, inthe great hereafter. ee you here awhile, I think U will take a stroll about the place.” * Will you make inquiries?” ‘No. not at present. We had best wait, and bide our time, If we have come on a wild-goose-chase, it does not appear worth while to apprise these deni- zens of the fact, If, on the contrary, it proves that we have come here to any purpose, there is time enough to work. Things done in haste are not, as a rule, done well.” “What a logician you are, to be sure, Judson,” Mrs. Wardville said, laughingly. -_ * Logic is simply common sense, dear. Now, good- by, for maybe an hour, or so,’ and kissing the wo- man who hail ever been a faithful and loving wife to him, Wardville descended to the bar-room of the “ Big Schooner,” where the usual gang of rough and illiterate patrons were taking their morning ‘* nip 0” dew.’ There were miners, and stage-drivers, gam- blers and desperadoes all mixed together, with now and then a genteel speculator, or maybe now and then a military officer or private. After reviewing the crowd in the bar-room with a critical eye, Judson Wardville passed into the donce- hall, only to remain a few moments, for the females who were lounging on the side seats, smoking and drinking, or taking part in the mazy waltz, were vot such as he could either respect or admire. That same afternoon, Old Avalanche was sitting ' upon a bowlder in the dark recesses of the Southern canyon, which, like a deep. narrow fissure, ran through the mountains, its course declining. and bottom being hundréds of feet below the hoa mountain-peals which rose and cast a solemn shad- ow o'er its course. Before the scout the clear bright waters of Castle Creck purled and sprayed through a rocky channel, and made strangely weird musie echo along the gi- gontic walls that arose on every side. Yar above, the peaks were crowned with spectral pines, and the wind wafted down the scent of them and mingled it with the fragrance of the flowers on a wild syringa bush which grew close.at hand. Close at the Annihilator’s side crouched that speci- men of the genvs capri, which was the old man’s ride —- the vicious, ugly-looking goat, | lorence ightingale, which had been his boon companion on jen against the hostile red-skins.’ “ PeTue goat was engaged at browsing away at a hem- | Ta MDS are Rome eee Te A ee many a wilderness journey, and during many cam. lock limb. ing upon his two hands, gazing thoughtfully up and down the canyon, as the day drew toward a close, *‘Reckon thet sister o’ Corduroy Charlie's ar’ a goner he soliloquized, as he took’a bite froma plug of twist, “Te looked al over, e’ena’most. ter find her, but no crippled ‘gal ner Chinee galoot kin I git news vy. Thet's one deefikilty w’at’s cloggin’ ther path o’ this ere devastatin’ eppydemic o’ ther peraries. Hayr in thes place they call me the ‘mountain king,’ an’ great ham-bone w’at war a Stir heey pint ter «ld Joner! ef I aff’t got my hands fuller o’ bizness than a full-blowed wassup, may this great disease 0? ther boreal lattytudes an’ longytoads be everlast- in’ly yore Thar’s Corduroy Charlie—a nice sort 0’ a galoot—I must ei him out o* his rigs; then thars thet matter about old Ugly Ann, an’ her War- riors o’ ther Sun God—ther citizins want me ter lay fer ther Sennctiald Then cums thet affair about Deadwood Dick an’ his wife—thet report w ich don’t go down me easy. Great shadder 0’ old Moses who peregrinated thr’w ther Biblikal bull-rushes! 1’d ruther swaller a dose o’ gin an’ cotton, then b’tieve thet leetle red-haired Leone Harris hed gone ter ther dogs!" * Alas! yes! but tis only too true!” - The latter words were not spoken by the scout, but by another. , Another, who, upon a powerful and glossy black horse, had ridden within a few feet of the Annilila- tor without his knowledge. And as the latier wheeled around he uttered an exclamation at sight of the black-clad, black masked figure which sat 50 erect in the saddle. * Deaswood Dik!” he gasped, bis old features contorting info an expressicn of recognition. ‘Can et be possyble et aire you?” “Quite possible, old man!” was the reply, in the road-agent and regulator’s familiar voice. ‘You behold Deadwood Dick again, as you first met him.” * On ther road b’yee? ““Yes, on the road.” And as be spoke, the ycung man slipped from his saddle and came nearer, the striking heauty of his perfect form at strong con- trast with the grim mask that covered the upper ortion cf his face, ‘You were just speaking of one, Avalanche—she who has been the alternate | blessing and curse of my life.” 5 “Yes, I war speakin’ o’ her. boyee, fer sence & heerd 9’ yer goin’ back onter ther road, an’ of her desartion, I've been in aquandersum deefikilty,” the old man replied in a husky tene. ; “Et sorter made me sick, ther news, ye see, fer I allus loved the gal is ef she war my own darter,”” —_ “Of course you did; but your love was buta small insignificant item ccmpered with the idolatrous pas-» sion Lhad for her. Love was a weak word. I more while the old scout sat with his chin rest- - than loved—I worsbiped her. You know it: and that — . since cur reunion after that affair of jealousy, which was settled up at Eureka. I have been a devoted hus- band to her-—-she was my idol.” “Great ham-bone! yes, boyee; I never cee’d but w’at ye war gude ter ber, an’ ] ken’t ascribe any mo- tive for her feavin’ ye." f “Norcan I; but she is gore—hopelessly andi I shal] never seek to restore her to my bosom!" Dead- wood Dick said. bitteriy. * Are you sure, Dick?” the veteran scout asked, catching at the least possible hope, as the drowni man would estch at a fragment of bark on the float- ing tide, ‘*Ain’t there sum mistake ?— sum unfound- ed suspicion?” ** None!” Deadwood Dick replied, fiercely, stopping | . his impatient pacing—‘‘none, Avalanche. Listento —~ me. and then if you can’put in even a word f r her a : T will hear your defense or opinion. “T was up in Whoop-Up a few weeks ago. playing : regulator, After the despersing of my band, Leone went over to Hayward City to stay. as J supposed, with my sister, Mrs. McKenzie. When I went to Hayward I didn’t find Leone at Anita’s, but in acab- ¢

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12 Coréuroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. in, lying on the floor—dead drunk! She had not been near McKenzie’s, but from all reports had been with a noted Seurimed called Handsome Hal. I wanted proof; I left the cabin to keep watch; I saw the gambler come—saw enough to diive many a stronger man than me insane with fury; I forbore shootin;; them then and there, but went out into the mountains to cool off. There I met some men whom I knew to be trusty, and on the impulse of a mo- ment I reorganized my road-agent band, and Dead- ' wood Dick's flag was again unfurled in the face of the world. When I returned to Hayward) Leone and her evil genius were gone. Lam now hunting for er.”? } “* What will you do. Dickey, boyee?”’ “Tl find her!” said Deadwood Dick, with that wild, terrible laugh of his: ‘I'll find her, and remind her of the innocent babe she bore me, now dead, and ap Pat bullets through her faithless heart till she 8 dead,’ Then. as he ceased speaking, the wronged man turned, vaulted into the saddle, and dashed swiftly away up the canyon, ‘ CHAPTER VII. PHACE-COMMISSIONERS AND ROAD-AGENTS. A ter Deadwood Dick had gone, Avalanche arose and started off for Quartz City, followed by his curi- ous companion, the goat. “Dickey means et,” he muttered, slowly. ‘He means 6t, cuss old Florence’s capacity fer fodder ef - he don’t, He ar’ a bard customer w’en he’s set on a subject, and I reckon I’d like ter find thet wife o” his’n an’ tell her ter skip, fer. w’en Deadwood Rich- ard sez he’s goin’ ter shoot a person, ye ken bet he'll go do et.’ In hopes-of running across Corduroy Charlie, the old Annihilator steered for Pretzel Pete’s, but failed to find the Boy Bravo there, after which he visited several more of the dens which flanked the street. “Ken’t be they’ve knabbed the boyee, too,” he muttered, dubiously, when he could find or learn nothing of Charlie. “ P’r’aps Buster has seen some- thing of him.” He aimed his footsteps along toward Lena Vernon’s cabin, followed closely by Florenca Night-in-a-gale, at whom the crowd stared or poked fun; but ver few cared to furthsr tackle the animal than wit bantering words, for Florence had built up a reputa- tion in Quartz City by knocking out the front teeth of a notable bully in first-class style. Upon arriving at Buster’s cabin, Avalanche found \the girl standing in th» doorway, watching the set- ting sun with her dazzling, fascinating eyes. ‘* ffs Corduroy Charlie been here since we left this morning?” were the first words of the scout. * No! why, what’s become of him?’ ‘Thet’s jos* wat I'm anxious ter find out. Great somnambulistic ham-bone thet used ter pay nightly visitations ter old Joner’s larnyx! ef thet boyee war ter hey any harm happen ter him, ’d never fergive myself.” Then the old man further related about the abduction of young Madison’s sister, and his in- terview with Deadwood Dick. soe *Poor fellow!” the girl said, sympathizingly. ‘I hope he may find his lost sister, and I also hope that Deadwood Dick may not execute his threatened vengeance upon his wife.” “ Why?" “ Because it ean do him no good to kill her who was the mother of his child.” “Right, Bustor, by ther great ham-bone, _ But he'll do et, an’ don't ye fergitet. W’en Deadwood Dickey says he'll do a thing, he’s a-goin’ ter git thar, an’ don’t ye ferget et.” - Then the Annihilator took his departure, striding back toward the “ Big Schooner.” : That night, owing to the previous night’s suecess, the masked ball at the establishment of Pretzel Pete - was repeated, and the ball-room was crowded, and also the bar room, where the Dutchman dealt out “pizen” to as pouph and ill-assorted a gang of humans as ever lined a counter. There were oaths in a pleated. and occasionally a knock-down. while in the ball-room malys and females whirle under the brilliant light of the chandeliers, to the_ enlivening music discoursed by the German band whom Pretzel Pete had fetched from Pittsburg. Tn the ball-room, withea very few exceptions, all were masked, the exceptions being such as did not eare to dance, or knew not how. Old Avalanche composed one of the exceptions as he sat upon the top of a deal table at one side o|} the room, with his weapons and his faithful com- panion, Florence, by his side. “ Great authentic ham-bone!’’ he was saying, a7- dressing his remarks to them around him who might be listening—“ ef ther devil war ter see thes yere gang, he’d git skeered an’ turn his tail an’ skip. oly Moses, 0’ bull-rushin’ fame—wu’st—very wu’st gang o’ human critters I evyer sot eyes on,” , Tf any one had the courage to dispute the Annihi- lator’s views, they evidently had nut the ambition or desire, and so the old man relapsed into silence, But he kept his eyes, old and growing dim, though they were, upon the whirling mass of dancers be- neath the brilliant chandelier, light—especially upon a certain couple, when they were in sight. ; The man was. tall and slim—clad in a ranger cos- tume, with a tall fur-beaver cap upon his head, and amask upon his face, which wholly enveloped the features. The woman was shorter in statare than- her companion, with a plump form, and briek-red hair, which fell over her shoulders in an untangled mass. Her face was masked from eyebrows to chin; her costume was a short dress, cut low in the ens and a jaunty jockeyfied hat perched upon her ead, Both she and her cavalier were graceful dancers, and floated eae y through all the changes with- out the least apparent confusion. And this couple Old Avalanche watched sharply, his forehead contracted in a half-frown. * Once he caught the glance of the woman, but it was only for a moment, during which she seemed to halt, instinctively, and tremble; then she was whirl- ed away into the mazes of the dance by her partner, and the scout Jost track of therm, “opwere her /” he muttered, grimly—‘‘ her—Leone Harris! Great ham-bone thet layed siege ter ther interior kentry ov old Joner’s constitution. Til go an’ get.a sip o’ tarant’ler, and then lay fer her, durn me ef I don’t. Florence, ye beast, jest stay whar ye be, an’ keep yer weather eye out. Ye know them as ar’ my friends, an’ know w’en things w’at ain’t Christyun-like aire goin’ on! * The goat wiggled the stump of its tail in an undex- standing manner, and then Avalanche departed When ho returned he felt in a spirit more like to hime self, and gazed around in quest of his game. He soon found the red-haired masker sitting quite alone on one of the side seats; but she started vio- Jently when she saw him approaching. “Great Moses thet ¢avorted thr’w’ ther Historic bu-rushes! don’t git skeered, mum; I ain‘t goin’ ~ ter harm yer, es | am a contagious eppydemic 0’ de- molishun. Jest ye foller me out o’ this yere ball- room, for 1 wanter hev a lectle talk wi? ye.” ee jes * Without a word Leone Harris, for it was she, in us truth, followed the old man, and soon they were out in the night shades of the vale, quite alone. strange grimness on his rough, grizzled features. “Ye see, I know’d ye!’ hé began, with one of his peculiar chuekles—“ know d ye jes'so wellas my old mare Prudence Cordeliar uster know oats, A great animils fer fodder wers thet Prudence, mum—a — terrific dispenser o’ provender. But then, she warn’t ene side o’ aslab fence ter my goat, Florence Night in-a-gale. Hit? why, by ther etarnal ham- Then Avalanche halted, and faced her, with a ~ i bone thet disfigured Joner, she kin eat more inless — A 4 nu, ‘time than any beast extant.” © % BO.

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. 13 ve masked woman had listened with evident im- jence. me Well!” she said, what has this to do with your ft ig me out here?” “Not much, thet’s a fac’. But I thort I'd give ye an idea o’ ther digestive capabilities o’ my goat, Florence. As teg w'at I fetched ye heer for, I want- ed ter give ye a leetle warning.” “ Warning, sir?”’ ; “*Perzactly. You are Leone Harris. Thar! don’t attempt to deny it, fer ’tis useless, for I know et. Yer red hair gives yeaway. Shed hev know’d ye ef we'd met on ther ferry-boat crossin’ Jordan.” i “You are right; I am, or was Leone Harris before the devil tempted me and I had not the power to resist. Don’t think to lecture me—I will not listen.” ** An’ Deadwood Dick, gal—” “T have wronged deeply, and should be sorry, erhaps; but l ain’t. Iscarcely can credit the change in me during a few weeks, myself, but such change there is, that I would not go back to the tame, re- tired life for all the world. No, no!—not for Dead- wood Dick, or the whole world!” ; She Broke in a nervous, excited way, emitting her speech by little jerks, It was quite evident she had indeed falleninto a depth from which there was no extrication. ‘*Great ham-bone! kin et be thet ye no longer hev love for Dickey, ter whom ye bore thet leetle son who—God be praised—died in time to be spared this shame?” ‘‘T do not think I care in the least for Deadwood Dick, Avalanche. When a woman sells her soul to the devil, love has little power over her. Had my child lived, I should never have come to this. Have you said all you wish?” “No! Iwish ter warn ye—faithless though you have turned out—ter look out fer Deadwood Dick. You may have heard that hoe has again taken to the road. Itisso; Isee’d ther boyee ter-day; hesw’ars thet he now only lives ter kill ye!” * What! Deadwood Dick kili me! Ha! ha! let him try it! Know ye, old man,-that I have power unsuspected by youorhim. Let him but hunt for ei ae be will fall into a trap which shall end in eath!’ “ Great salubrious ham-bone thet demoralized ther constitoochinuv old Joner! What hes ie evyer done thet ye shed wish ter destroy him?” “Nothing; but when he tracks a tigress to make ame of her, he will find his mistake. Please tell een oe if you see him, and that Leone Harris defies m!? Then, without another word, the woman turned on her heel, and glided back toward the “ Big Sghoon- er ” followed a few moments later by the old Anni- ator. He found that she had again joined the dancers, and was whirling away in the arms of the dandy ranger, with whom Avalanche had first noticed her. As he was standing idly at one side of the great hall, there was an uproar in the bar-room, and a mo- ment later a gang of armed toughs. comprising Monk Morgan, Grizzly George, Skunk’s Cabbage Abe, and several others, among whom was the “heathen Chinee,” Clever Sam, and, headed by the lumbering bullwhacker, Jem McTurk, burst into the ball-room with yells and whoops. . _ As a consequence the band ceased to play, and the dancers hudaled together, in alarm; for a ‘‘raid,” headed by the notorious MeTurk, had often been ee dangerous if not disastrous. Pell-mell into he apartment the gang waltzed, with drawn re- volvers, and took their stand upon various articles of furniture, commanding elevation. MeTurk had been drinking deeply, and as he stood fora moment, glaring around upon the crowd, with a pair of hea six-shooters in his grasp, nearly every one sbrun _ back as in “dread of him, whose wolfish face was a mirror of an evil nature. ‘“WhariS he?” the bullwhacker at last bellowed, with a frightful oath—‘‘ Whar is ther nastly ketle _crowd. loot they call Corduroy Charlie? I wanter see thet same cuss, an’ chaw off his nozzle. Show him fer me! He’s thar among ye masked fools—show him up, or go] dang yer ugly skins, I’ll sic my purps, hayr, onter ye, an’ let ‘em scatter yer bones frum hayr ter Cheyenne!” ‘Yes! et’s Corduroy Charles we're arfter, or blood, an’ hey one or t'other we will, hit or miss!” cried Monk Morgan. “So haul him out, or down goes thes edifis ker- slap inside o’ ten seconds by ther least calkylation. Whoop him out, Ltell ye!” ““Yessee! yessee! muchee findee Corduroy Char- lee—gib himee up to peacee commissioners!” assert- ed Clever Sam, with a huge grin, as he leveled, with the others, a pair of formidable revolvers at the scan manee muchee i badee—Chinee man muchee cutee, likee debbil!’’ ** Holdt! stop!” cried Pretzel Pete, rushing in upon the scene. ‘ Vat ish all dis drouble apoud? Vat vor all dish pig nonsense in my saloons? Shimmin pres unt my vife Katrina! I gets me mad, unt cks you all out mit der street!” : “Hello! don’t get excited, Dutchy!” howled Me- Turk ‘‘ What’s ther use- 0’ perrigrinatin’ on yer ear, w’en ye ain’t burt? All we want ar’ a pier called Corduroy Churlie—thet same festive coon who salivated me last evenin’! Thet’s w’at’s our game, you bet. Peace Commissioners aire we, dul appoint d by Unkle Samule ter lick out fer jest sec coons.’ “Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! den vy don’t. you yas find him?” expostulated Pete, in bie dudgeon, ‘‘ Ve no keep Corduroy Sharlie here, I dells you.”’ “Shet up, ye old-blowhard! Leddies an’ gentle- men, ter av'ide trouble, ye’ll please unmask! “That's ther way ter tell ef Corduroy Charlie’s heer. Off wi’ ae face kiverin’, every one 0’ ye, or Dll make sum funerals a vital necessity!” With alacrity the masqueraders began to drop the coverings from their faces, for al! were in awe of the bullwhacker, who held life so lightly in regard. _ Soon the faces were all unmasked and turned to- ward the Peace Commissioners for inspection. It took but a glance from McTurk to tell that Cor- duroy Charlie was not among them, and he leaped to the floor with an oath. ( ‘ “ Hurra! boys—ther galoot ain’t ag an’ we must s’arch till we find him. Kerwhoop! ty dollars ter ther galoot as fetches me ther skunk w'at salivated me out in ther gulch!” The roughs gave an assenting yell, and were about to rush out into the night, when there was a series of wild, rollicking whoops, and a stream of horse- men came pouring into the ball-room, All were masked and armed to the teeth, and clad in mountain costume, and at their head rode one whom all recognized with the single exclamation: “DeEapwoop Dick!” : And so it was, = CHAPTER VIII. IN THE BALL-ROOM—UGLY ANN AND HER TOOLS— M'TURK’S DEFHAT. / In an instant the greatest consternation prevailed within the ball-room. Men shrunk back and grasped their weapons; women shrieked with terror, and at- tempted to fly, but were in most cases prevented b the walls of humanity which surrounded them. A this confusion and chaos of disorder was because of e€ appearance of one man and a dozen of his com- ions—the notorious Deadwood Dick & Co, ; “Hello! Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina; vot ish der meaning mit dish drouble?” Pretzel Pete demanded, as he mounted the barrel just vacated by the bullwhacker, MeTurk. ‘‘ Vot yor you coome into mine saloon mit horses on your packs, you pig, un- mannerly loafers?’ “ Whoa-up, old man!” Deadwood Dick replied; “coolness should be your motto on such an occasion as this, You'll no doubt get it hot enough hereafter. _ 4A

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14 It 80 happens that I have a deserting wife among this throng, and { have come for her. If you people wil] all remain quiet a moment, I will find her and take a quiet departurs, _Otherwise—well, you know about how Deadwood Dick’s raids turn out!” and there was a quiet smile beneath the mask as the roa l-agent ceas+d speaking. “Ladies unt shentleman, you vill blease keep so still ash von mouse, ondil dis roadt-agent takes his departure,” announced Pretzel Pete from his barrel. “Daadtwood Tick hash very much reputation av pein’ a pad cusdomer.” There was a shout of laughter from the masked road-agents, and an equal volume of curses from tae roughs under Jem McTurk, “ You will find it to your advantage to follow your host’s direction, ladies and gentlemen,” Deadwood Dick sail. ‘‘ Undoubtedly, as he intimates, I am a bad customer when you get me riled. You all may have heard of me, and that my wife, Leone Harris. has deserted moe for a doub! e-dyed wretch called Handsome Hal. That she and her pard are in this room, Il am satisfied You will please stand still, while I ride among you and scan each face.” It was a request-and yet an order, and no one seemed desirous of disobeying it, for the road-agents sat like statues cn sad/le with cocked revolvers, And Deadwood, Dick rode carefully about among ‘the crowd within the great ball-room, those mag- netic eagle eyes of his swearing: the sea of faces in a sharp, searching glance that required no second look for assurance, How many, male and female, shrunk back as they encountered the stern, unflinching gaze of the road- prince! How many trembled lest he should smite them—he who was believed to fear neither death nor the devil! A strange hush pervaded; naught was heard ex- cept the tramp of the auimal’s feet, which bore the road-agent through the room, Every one seemed to stand with bated breath waiting the issue, whatever it might be. o Ha Y , : The ejaculation now suddenly escapes Deadwood Dick's lips, and_he raises his revolver, and fires at two forms just disanpearing through a rear door of the ball-room —the figures of red-haired Leone Har- ris and her cavalier. But he fired too late for the bullets to take effect, as was evidenced by a mock- ing lauzh which came floating back into the room. “Baffled this time!”” he muttered, with a bitter chuckle, “‘ for she evidently was expecting me, An- other time I shall take her by surprise. Away, boys, Remember we have a stage to toll at mid- hen, assuldenly as the lightning flash radiates the clouled heavens, there came a glare of vivid flashes, a cannonade of sharp, spiteful reports, the trampling of iron-shod feet and v cious screams of horses, intermingled with oaths, wild yells of laugh- ter. and stentorian orders. This pandemonium of sounds for a few seconds— then it was discovered that the road-agents had taken their departure from the ‘‘ Big Schooner.” Nobody had been hurt—the pistol-shots and yells had been the finale overture of the daring pirates of the trail, previous to their departure. : “Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! if dish ish der sort off vatermellons you grow oud mit der Plick Hills, I sells oud my place, FO burg unt sell three-cent lager, so help me!” “Oh! that’s only an interlude in ther active drama of mining life, Pretzel Peter the Great!’’ assured Mr. Andy Adair. ‘Ye must git used ter sech things, ‘i parseeve. an’ w’en ye'’re wisited by sech shinin’ ights as Deadwood Dickey, not go a perigrinatin’ off on yer ear, as ye did ter-night. At sec iznorance ain’t bliss by er long chalk!” times An hourlater four men were standing in the dark- ‘ ness which enveloped the vale—four burly. brawny imen, and a creature which might have been taken Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. f pack mit Pitts-, for a woman, as the dress and hood which hung ce upon the narrow shoulders seemed to indicate at Sox. The men were nore others than the bullwhacker. Jem McTurk. the ruffian and es Morgan, and their confederates, Grizzly rge and a felliw known as Bison Ben, from his shaggy appearance, The woman was, in every sense of the word, a bor- rible looking old hag, with disheveled hair, shrunken features, and evilly-gleaming, coal black eyes, while her mouth was large, and disclosed a few long, fang: like teeth. The complexion of her skin was sugges- tive of jaundice: and her form was shriveled and bony, oe few rags she wore.being illy-sufficient to cover it, She carried a crooke staff in her hand, and would have reminded one of a witch such as are told of in ancient fairy tales. “Auck over my durned equilibrium, ef ye ain’t a hoss!” Jem MeTurk was saying. ‘“ Hayr ye’re sur- roundin’ us wi’ bizness thet’ll keep our hands bizzy. Ye got ther crippled gal w’at Monk, hayr, sent ye, + Yes!"’ the hag replied, in a harsh, squeaky voice. “T got her all right, and she ary arate a captive in the dungeons of the Temple of the Sun-God, She will make a fine morsel for ther sacrifice |”’ “No doubt,’ and the bullwhacker shuddered at the hag’s coolness, though he well knew it was her way to be coo] and calculating, when working devil- try, even though at other times she were afire with consuming flames of insanity. “You ar’ sure o’ one victim, mum!”’ “Bah! only one!” cried the hag, fiercely. must have more—more for the pga ey quarterly sacrifice to Quoloro, the Sun-God. His warriors at the temple are hungry for the sacrifice! Five shall there be sacrificed. Quoloro has commanded it, and sent Ugly Ann, his agent, to search for fat victims, She hus searched, when night has overshadowed the land. She has found plenty of victims. The red- haired wife of Deadwood Dick; tha beauty of the vale whom the miners eall ‘ Buster’; the Chinaman and the red chief, Bad Medicine, and the youth, Corduroy Charlie. All these must know the sacrifice Ugly Ann has said it, and to Quoloro, the Sun-God! you, her agents, must do her will!” The four ruffians stared at each other doubtingly. and then at the half-crazed hag, who had worked herself into savage excitement. “You need not hesitate!’ she shrieked, in a sud- den fury, as her sharp gaze senast their glances, ““What care you what your hands do, so long as you getgold? Have I not alwayspaid you? Look!” and she brought four pouches made of buckskin from beneath her tattered shawl. of you, to do my bidding—more gold than you could mine in a month!” : “Good enowgh! We're yours, truly, old gal!” MeTurk cried, seizing his pouch. “S’pose ye'll hev yer ‘ier cum ter ther old place fer ther ‘stock ’*?”’ j “Here is gold for each © = Os feo “No! no! Dauldo was torn to pieces in the bear’s den this morning, and you all must bring yer vie- bea pe ther Temple, an’ witness the glorious saeri- ice “But I reckon we won't, mum!” MeTurk said, Sey “We ain’t partial ter seein’ hullsale butch- erin’ did, even ef we do drop our man oncet an’ aw’ile, Reckon ye'll hev ter excuse us,” “Excuse ye? Wo!” cried Ugly Ann, savagely. “Don't dare to refuse to come! You know the fate of those who have refused to obey my orders. Well, you shall follow them if you refuse, Remember! [ never make idle boasts!" And without another word the hag wheeled about — and hurried away into the darkness, _ ““Cuss her!” MeTurk growled. as he glared in the Pee she had gone. ‘Wat ye think o’ et, — e nk??? _ “Seat as T allus hey, thet she is a reg’lar old flend:

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Oorduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. 18 es!" the gambler replied, with a shiver. ‘‘ I reckon ¢t’s no use fer us ter think o’ doin’ less than she hes a@dered.”’ ‘“*On course not, Ye know w’at Clumsy Cal an’ a number others got fer playin’ shenannigun, an’ we ain't no better’n them on ther dodge. ’Druther give anugget than go see thet thar sacrifuss, ’ca’se et allus goes ag’in’ my grain ter see any killin’ done on- rao take a hand myself. Then I’m all right, ye j oy onder whar ther old rip pits the gold she gives 69”? _ “Sh!” McTurk cautioned with an evil grin—‘‘ not so loud. Thet’s for us ter find out, w’en we wisit, ther Temple 0’ ther Sun-God. We must solve ther mystery Ther old woman is crazy, an’ them idol- atrous red-skins, wich aire pickings out o’ half a dozen different nations, all believe thet she hes more ‘than mortal power, I suspect, an’ accordingly serve her, out 0’ reverence an’ fear. Et must be our pur- puss ter find whar she keeps her gold, an’ help o-r- caida Now then, scatter, an’ lay fer ther game, ively! Lena Vernon, or “‘ Buster,” was sitting in her cab- in, a short time after the events last recorded, mending a cut in the jacket of thesuit of male attire she had worn on her first meeting with Corduroy Charlie. She was all alone, but this caused no thought of fear to enter her mind; she had lived long enough in the rough mining country of the West to have little thought of the danger which con- stantly surrounded her. ‘ad She found much to think of as her deft fingers he the needle—for food for thought had come to er with the coming of Charlie Madison. She was conscious that his comely appearance had impressed ier and excited her enthusiastic admira- tion. She knew that he was the only one whose glance had ever thrilled her with that exquisite sensation of first love—well, it made her young heart beat wildly when she thought of him, short though had been their first meeting. ; The candle-light revealed the rosy coloring on her chéeks as she sat sewing, and occasionally 'a soft ee smile that eame to and departed from her ips. d i So engaged were her thoughts that her ears failed to detect the sound of the opening and closing door; she was ignorant that another person was in the room, until she chanced to glance up, and beheld a man standing almost in front of her, and that man none other than Jem MeTurk, ‘Haw! haw!” he laughed hoarsely, asshe s to her feet in astonishment. ‘* Didn't expect me, did ye, Buster!” = “No, indeed. How did you gain entrance?” the girl demanded. ‘Thru’ ther door, on course, daisy. Ye see, I hed a leetie bizness ter transact wi’ ye, an’ so I kim right in wi’out ceremony. Thar! sit down, an’ Ill do ther {same ” “No! I won’t sit down!’ Buster cried, glancing nervously toward an opposite corner where her wea- pons were, for she well knew the class of villain she ad to deal with. McTurk caught her gaze, and ‘took pains to put himself between her and t rem, at the same time drawing and cocking his formidable rung see ‘**No ye don’t!” he said, with a triumphant leer; “reckon I know how ye sling lead, an’ ye ken’t gri no ‘bull-purp ” while I’m around, Sit down, I te! you, or Pli—” 2 Lena obeyed without answering. Brave though she was, she dreaded this man, McTurk, more than any other an in Quartz City, Why, she could scarcely have told, herself i “Thar! sit, now, an’ ea yer ears!’’ the bull- _ whacker-that-had-been_ said i) € ,» as he pale macamp-stool, ‘‘ Be reason’ble, an’ ye'll git ter in short order, you bet!” ‘* What do you mean, Jem McTurk?"’ “Hey? wat do [ mean? Waal, et’ll take a leetla story ter tell thet, an’ I mought as well tell ye Ye've heerd uv a tribe ©’ Injuns, no doubt, who jong in ther mountains, not more’n a Gozen miles from_heer, They’re called the ‘ Warriors o’ the: Sun-God’—a sort o’ idol they worship bein’ o: thet name, Every season o’ ther yeer, they sacrifice some livin’ critter ter this god. humans bein’ their ~ preference, This yeer’ they propose ter make more sacrifices than usual, and have elected me ter s’arch fer material.” “You, Jem McZurk! You searching for victims for these barbarous wretches to murder]"’ Lena ex- claimed, in horror. “ Waal, yes, I reckon thet’s about et, an’, as they’re fond 0’ pritty subjects, I thort you might an- s’er ter a dot.” “Great God! wretch?” “Jest w'at I sed, perzim! Cid Ugly Ann sed you war her huckleberry, an’ so I’ve cum ter appropri. ate ye!” and, with a gloating grin, the ruffian rose to his feet, and advanced a step toward poor Lena! panes too, sprung from her chair, and l.aped toward 6 door, ene ! help!” she screamed, just as McTurk slapped a heavy hand upon her shoulder. J And her cry was not unanswered, The door was suddenly flung open, and a man stepped into the room. It was Lieutenant ves and the bullwhacker released Lena and ae ipa ack as he saw bim, “Hello! by the devils, what docs this mean?” the lieutenant demanded. ‘‘ What are you up to, Jem. MeTurk?” _ “He was about attempting to carry me off, bro. ‘ther!’ Lena Vernon cried, indignantly. ‘He isa brutal wretch!” “I war jest playin’ a leetle joke, ye see!” MeTurk ventured, hesitatingly. “Bah! none of your lying to me!” Cressly said, sternly. ‘‘Who sent you here?” “ Ugly Ann!” the ex-bullwhacker grinned. “The devil! Who for?” ‘Yor Buster!” Cressly leaped back with a vile oaths *Ourse her! what does she mean?” he growled, “You can go, sir; look out ye don’t show up here again, I'll see about this directly. uw ‘he ruffian slunk from the cabin like a whipped cur; then Cressly turned upon Lena Vernon, who was his sister What do you mean, you bruta: © y : OHAPTER IX. , A BIT OF REVELATION, AND BUSTER'S PROMISE—IN THE — CANYON—A RESCUE. Tue face of the so-called lieutenant was stern and pitiless as he faced the beautiful girl, Lena Vernon, And she trembled, for in his savage moods he was fierce and ofttimes brutal. : “Well?” he growled, interrogatively, as if he ex- peor her to speak—"' well, what bave you to say ourself?” : “What do you mean, Dion? Ido not understand ’ MeTurk.”’ ‘ “Exactly. I chanced to be a witness to the duel He is my enemy |” 2 “Your enemy?” f

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i6 “Exactly, again. One of the bitterest in my oal- endar. Let me relate: : * A year or so ago, when I took a trip to Califor- nia, leaving you in Denver, UF eons off at Stock- ton, and as it happened, chanced to engage board with this Corduroy Charlie and his crippled sister. “In a moment of irdiseretion, I thoughtlessly offended them, and it appears they have cherished a deep-set rancor for me and followed me here for the purpose of a deadly revenge. And you had the bitterest enemy of my life, ministering to his wants!’ E “But how should I know of it, Dion, when you never told me?” 3 ‘* Well, you know it now, and let if be a warning to you. Moreover, you must tell me where the ae- cursed rascal is hiding, for you alone know.” “T do not know. He left here with Avalanche. this morning, early, and I have not seen him since.’ “Stop! girl! do not anger me with your lies. Tell me where he is, or by my life, I’ll not remember hat you are my sister, or a woman, Tell me, I say : Lena rose to her feet, her*cheeks flushed, and eyes glowing, brightly. “Thave told you once and for all that Ido not know where he is. I cannot say more, no matter what you do!” she said, e-ldly. “But I'll make you! curse you, I'll make you ten’ ~ Vill recall McTurk, and he shall take. you off to the sacrifice |—” a ‘*Enough! Dion Avery! you are no brother of mine after that threat, and if I knew, I would never be- tray Corduroy Charlie’s whereabouts to you— never f” P “Then McTurk shall obey Ugly Ann’s com- mands!” the villain said, rising. ‘When death stares you in the face, you'll find if beyond my power to help you!” **Oh! Dion, how can you bea so cruel, when I know nothing of the young man?”’ and Buster burst intoa fit of weeping, which Cressly, otherwise Dion Avery, failed to notice was wholly affected. - “Cruel? Well, I'll give you one chance. Go seek this Corduroy Charley, and betray him to me. Will you _do it?” “ec Yes 132 The girl spoke eagerly, but with a dark gleam in _ her beautiful eyes. ‘You promise?” **T promise.’”* : “Very well; your life will depend upon your keep- -ing that promise. Don’t think to trifle with me, or attempt to escape. A spy chosen from the barbar- ous Sun-God worshipers shall constantly dog your footsteps, though you may not see him.”’ ‘Then the lieutenant turned and strode from the cabin, slamming the door after him. : “Yes! yes!” the brave girl muttered, going to the window and peering out into the darkness, ‘“T will ~ goin search of Corduroy Charlie, but not to Betsy. ~ him to you, my villainous brother—far from it. He shall find that brother and sister, even, can play at different games.” _ “Come along, boys; I reckon we've got ther game purty nigh cornered !’” The gpd was the ruffian gambler, Monk Mor- gan, and he was accompanied by half a dozen of his _ confederates, including Bison and Grizzly George. * In the night’s dense gloom they were skulking through the deep northern canyon, which opened out of the vale, with revolvers drawn, aad eyes peer- ing forward with a manifest eagerness. ‘or an hour they had been upon the trail of Cor- duroy Charlie, like human bloodhounds, and they meant to find him, and capture him for the sacrifice. Stealthily forward they stole, their footsteps soarce- ly eae a sound, their breaths coming and going ‘in concert. Nearer and nearer to the place of the supposed Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. ete concealment of the young Bravo—then all of asud . den the canyon and the night became as light as vay ] l@ as burning balls of fire were hurled down by invisi hands from a hundred quarters, some of them fall- ing upon the surprised “ peace commissioners,’ who retreated with howls of rage. And while yet in this confusion, the clatter of hoofs was heard, and a horseman came dashing directly down through the storm of blazing balls. ‘ With Te fraught with terror, all of the ruffians except as fast as their feet would carry them. bler was not made of the kind of clay instilled with cowardice; he stood still in his tracks, waiting with a gleam of desperation in his eyes, born of a con- trolled will. i He saw the horseman and a him, but raised not a hand on the defensive. "He believed that there were doubtless a score of weapons leveled at him from the cliff above, and that he was Virtu- ally a prisoner. ‘he horseman was Corduroy Charlie. He bore swiftly down toward the sp»t where the gambler stood: then drew rein by his side. Morgan met his stern glance unflinchingly: : “What d’ye want?” he demanded, in a hoarse voice. “Ef ye’re a road agent, ye won’t get no haul out o’ me!” : . “Tam no road-agent, and well ye know et,”’ Char- lie replied, fiercely. ‘You know why I stop to bandy words with a man of your worthless stamp. I want my sister, you wretch!” “What d’ye ealkylate IT kno’ about yer sister?” the gambler growled, fiercely. ‘‘I hain’t seen her, an’ don’t know anything about ber.” “Stop, you dog! don’t lie to me. It was you that received her from the hands of my treacherous ser: vant, Clever Sam. You must—you shall tell mg where she is, or I will shoot you down without a thought. Speak!” \ est The gambler grew pale with apprehension, and made a movement suggestive of fight as the Boy Brayo’s revolver-muzzle stared him‘in the face. “Hold up! don’t attempt to escape, as that will only -hasten your death.= Tell me, and Vll spara your, life for the present, Quick, or I'll surely drop ‘ou “Stop! don’t fire!” Morgan gasped in alarm. “T’ll tell you. The girl is in the power of the Worshipers of the Sun God.” ‘What! dare you tell me this, you wretch—and you sent her there!’ Corduroy Charlie eri d, fierce: ly, “Pl kill you—” i “Stop! you will do nothing of the kind, sir!’’ Mor- gan ee ied, eee “ Remember your promise—re- r thai mem only I have any power toward: re: Sei z, your sister. Shoot me, and her fate ig sealed! s Charlie reeled in his saddle, at the blow; it wasa contingency he had not thought of for a moment, ‘*¥fa! hal’? Morgan laughed, as he noted the effect of his words; “you weaken, I perceive. Mebbe ye wet so brave as ze war!” V7 “Will you then give back my sister if I spare your life, you devil!” ““Waal, I won’t promise fer certain, fer ye se life ar’ uncertain, an’ a feller hes ter be equally judishus in determinin’ his course. Mebbe so; me’ not,” ** Curse you!’’ the young Bravo gritted, his patience relaxing. ‘‘ You must either promise me, or die; sa take your choice."’ ! He spoke coolly, but there was a light of desperate resolution in his eyes. He was enough of a judge of character to perceive that the gambler was a treacherous ther valued his word nor honor—a man_ hardened ip the ways of a criminal life, who respected neither manor He doubted not that’ the fellow had told the truth arging poor Lily’s whereabouts; indeed, he alloyed her, almost since the first, in the power of those unknown snemies whom the author of the — Pig = At 2 a organ turned and fled toward Quartz City — The gam- | n, who nei-

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. Seen EES areu raion note had mentioned as previously related. ‘“*T must either promise or die, eh?’ Morgan sneer- ed. ‘Waal, Ireckon ye ken take my word then, as Tain’t in no mood fer takin’ my eternal leap to- night. Cum ter my ranch, two doors north o’ ther ‘Big Schooner,’ ter-morrer night at this time. an’ yell git yer sister, sure’s my name’s Monk Mor- “Correct! I willbe on hand. Go, now, and follow the gang, of cowardly dogs you were Sringie to capture Corduroy Charlie. ereafter, look in your peotes jbefore ye pull ’em on, You'll find it’ the safest.” With a curse, Morgan turned and strode back down the guich from whence he had come, followed by a mocking laugh that caused him to shiver—a laugh he had heard before, and to which a signifi- cance was attached, for it was the laugh of the noto- rious Deadwood Dick. And it was the road-agent, in person, who joined Corduroy Charlie, just as the gambler disappeared from view in the gloom; for the fire-balls on the canyon bottom had nearly burned out, and the night- shades were again settling down thickly, “What ails you?” Deadwood Dick demanded, in euteae: “‘Why didn’t you shoot the devil in his eks?”” ‘* Because that would have been sealing the fate of my poor sister,’ Charlie replied. ‘‘Did you not hear what he said?” “Certainly. And what better are you off by allow- ing the human wolf to escape? His promise is but a trap to get you in his power, and you will never see your sister through Aés agency. You should have killed him on the spot, and then, having the knowledge of your sister’s whereabouts, come to me.’ “But what right have I to expect more assistance from you than you kindly extended to-night?” “The right a brother has to expect succor from a brother,”” Deadwood Dick replied, grimly. ‘‘ Please remember that a man may be a road-agent and still aman. If you calculate I or any of my boys will desert a fellow-mortal who is fighting in the behalf of women, you make a mistake, I take the same in- terest in helping you toward finding your sister as if she were my. own, and you may be assured of my personal aid.” : “Thank you—I thank you with all ny heart!”’ Corduroy Charlie cried, warmly graspin the gloved hand of the prince of the road, ‘‘ Though our occu- pations ain't quite the same, that should be no bar to our friendship.” “Good enough, Itis a pity you didn’t shoot that tough, as he may trouble your path yet.” “There’s a chance to settle with him. I shall now return to town and brave my foes, if they lay for me,” **That would be my advite,”’ Deadwood Dick re- plied. ‘‘Sail in and let ’em know that ye ain’t afraid of the best of ’em, That’s the way I earned my reputation and notoriety in the Hills.” hen, after a few more words, Corduroy Charlie shook hands and parted with Deadwood Dick, after which he strode down the canyon and entered the vale where nestled Quartz City, as mapped out by a myriad of gleaming lights. \ ‘I wonder where I had best go?’ he muttered, as ‘he stood a few seconds at the mouth of the canyon, -and pened upon the scene which lay before him: ‘*T would like to see that fellow they call Old Ava- lanche, and also the girl, Lena Vernon.’ Why was it, I wonder, that I was so strangely impressed with her appearance? She seemed taremind me of some one, yet, for the life of me, I could not tell whom. Rather pretty and fascinating: no doubt would make an agreeable subject to make love to.” A faint glow of beauty shone in his eyes at thoughts of the belle of Quartz City, as “Buster” had often been called. é “I wonder who she is and where she came from? © " 17 Does Avalanche know anything about her? As T ey heis no way related to her. Hello! what's u F i en ceased soliloquizing and listened intently. From below him, inthe depth of the valley, came the sound of muffled cries—evidently of some per- son in distress, “Something gone — Soa ‘Perhaps it migh He drew one of his revolvers, and then stole away down the slope, through the dense gloom of the night. His footsteps were scarcely audible even to, pee and he was prepared for any emergency as e kept on. ..The further he went tke plainer became the sound uf harsh words. Before hima loomed up a growth of stunted chaparral, and within its covert Charlie was satisfied was the person or persons from whom the words emanated. : ‘So he erept stealthily along, and in five minutes had attained a position overlooking a peculiarly strange scene, ithin a little glade a man was lying prostrate upon the ground, bound hand and foot, while over him stood an old hag, with wrinkled, yel- lowish features, and tattered garb. 5 In her hand she held a long, threatening knife. which she occasionally flourished close to the face of the man, who was evident! y her prisoner. “Speak, Judson Wardville!” she exclaimed in a shrill, harsh voice; “‘ speak! promise me what I de- mand, or ’ll murder you where you lay, asI said. Your time is almost up! ; “T have already counted five hundred, but a hun- dred remains to be counted. If you do not answer to my demands, your life shall pay the forfeit.” “On the contrary, if you don’t make yourself scarce, T'll prt a bullet through your cranium in short order!” Charlie said, stepping from his eon- cealment, with a pair of six-shooters bearing upon thé would-be murderess. Come, start! or youw’rea goner, sure’s I know how to thread a needle!’’ The hag wheeled toward him with a fierce male- diction, but the moment she perceived that he was better armed than herself, she slunk away into the chaparral. Approaching the prisoner, Corduroy Charlie drew his knife, severed the bonds, and assisted Mr. Ward- ville to his feet. ‘* You will excuse me!” the released man said, hur” riedly, ‘‘ but I have not time now, more than to thank you. But I shall not forget your face; good-evening, sir. I must pursue that old woman;” and abruptly he dashed off through the chaparral, much to the . astonishment of Charlie, And the released prisoner had barely left the glade, when another man suddenly entered it and confronted our hero, a. CHAPTER X. . OVERPOWERED—MCTURK ¥8, FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE. THE man was the masked, silver-bearded individu- al who had once confidently advised Corduroy of McTurk’s prowess, and whom everybody had nick- oars Silver Beard, for want of a better appelia- tive. P There was no change in his appearance now more — than when Corduroy had first seen him, except that he carried a rifle, and his belt was tucked full of weapons. He seemed startled as he recognized the Youne Bravo, and came to a halt directly in front of him. “You?” he ejaculated. ‘“ Excuse me, for I thought it was some one else. But, since I have met you, I want to have a little talk with you.” ? ‘With me?” cs nee hi fe ‘Exactly. Down here a bit is a respectable peceasseh id we can sif in privacy and converse. ‘ome ““Yas; but hold up! How do I know who youare, or what kind of a trap you want me to enter?’ “Never fear; all is right. To assure you, lam the a ! the young bravo mut- be well enough to investi-

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18 Unknawn from whom you received an anonyraous” warning some time ago. So you need not hesitate, as my intentions are good.” Corduroy Charlie did not reply, but followed after the stranger with an eagerness not born of assur- - ance but of curiosity. The events of to-night, and the knowledge he had attained, had put him in a quandary—in a lex- ity of doubt and assailing fears, and if this silver- bearded individual could throw any light upon a dark past, he meant to receive it. For the past—the early childhood and birth of himself and poor Lily—had been hidden in a cloud of pescunis of their parentage they knew literally nothing. From the ege of ten dated their recoilec- tion. ey were then the foster-children of Dudley and Margaret Madison, whose name they bore, and « with whom they lived ufitil Charlie was fourteen. when both Madison and his wife died of fever, an hae Charlie their little farm outside of Stockton, a f Ts was not until after the death of Mr. and Mrs, Madison that these foster-children learned that they were not their own childre 1 by birth, but parentless waifs who had been adopted at a tender age. It vas a hard blow, but Charlie bore up under it man- fully, resolving to never forget it, and some time to search out his igree. He ever was haunted by a horrible face he had seen itt his early boyhood—a face that menaced. He never forgot it; to-night he had seen the face bending over the prisoner in the chaparral. How was the old hag connected with the mystery - of his life? Could this stranger explain? Thess were the questions in consideration as he - followed in the steps of Silver Beard. And they were momentous questions to him. They descended into the vallcy, and soon came to a cabin somewhat isolated in location from the rest. A light shone through the windows, and over the door was hung a banner transparency with the words in attractive letters, “THe Casino.” Without ceremony Silver Beard entered, and Cor- _ duroy followed, to find himself in an ordinary bar- - room, flanked on two sides by stalls for beer drink- ers, and occupied by a few miners who sat around smoking their ae Silver Beard led the way to a retired stall, order- ing cigars as he passed the bar. When they were -. ensconced in comfortable positions, and the cigars lit, the old man spoke. ’ ©“T suppose you have much desire and curiosity to kifow what [ want of you?” he said, in a low tone. One thing is to ask why you did not regard my ad- vice in my note of warning? BS do you come to this place when I warned you to keep clear of it? Please tell me that.” “ ‘Well, [ reckon’d et was nons of your business where I went, and so I steered ahead. I had got upon the trail of my soe and nothing short of a superiority of force could have turned me back.” : And by coming here you haye put yourself ina hornets’ nest. Your sister has turn’ up missing, and 2 gis own life is inimminent jeopardy!” “How do you know? What do you know about me, anyhow?” ‘Ah! you»og man, much more than you have the least idea of. Very much more, sir, Doubtless you are a vare that a mystery enshrouds the early years _ of your life?” , »“ Yes! yes!" Well. Lam (ie ee with the whole story, and nts. : s Corduroy Charlie a , the Boy Bravo. would acquire, my lips are unfortunately sealed with an oath too horrible to be broken, until death breaks it;”’ and the man bowed his head low, with a roan. “What! cannot tell me? Then, why did you bring me here to torture me?” “Itwas to-warn you, again, that I brought you— to warn you to fly from this where dwelleth your bitterest enemy, Think not of your sister, for she is beyond the power of your aid, were you to stay. Fly! while there is time, and save a life which may be a great blessing to the country.” ‘Neyer! while poor Lily is calling in vain for me to come to_her!” Corduroy Char:ie r-plied, sternly. -" Crazed thouch she is, she is all that I have left live for, and fight for. Tell me one thing, sir, which T feel assured you know—who was the woman I saw lade, a moment before you came? an old ag wi yellow skin and tattered garb? Tell me, who “That was Ugly Ann, the Propheters of the Sun- God—your bitterest, deadliest foe. Beware of her, for if she fixes her eyes on you, your life is hardly worth speaking for. Take my advice, and let an- ether night fa upon you far from this town,”’ ‘* By no means;”’ Corduroy Charlie replied, rising. ‘‘ Now that I have got the scent of my game, I sha pursue it until I get itin my power, Ithank youfor your warning, but I must egard it,” “Very well! Ishall not warn you again. Tt ma: come | at yu will wish you had accepted my ad- vice!’ » Charley bowed, and left the saloon, He was at loss how to arrange matters in his es Silver Beard was a riddle to him, without so- ution. He felt that the man was a rascal, in spite of his vouchsafed tliat but he did not reject the idea” that danger might be lying in wait for him. Some- thing seemed to tell him that it was, and a gleam of defiance entered his eyes. “T have enemies!’ he muttered, as he trudged down across the valley toward the main street, “and they will probably try to make me trouble. But they shall find that I am alert and fae need but one thing more to complete my outfit—” “ An’ thet’s a pair 0° handcuffs” cried a jubilant yoice, and before he was hardly aware of what had happened, he was lying upon the ground, securely bound, hand and foot. : ‘The surprise had been complete. At the least expected moment he had been taken, and by the very ones he had defied not an hour ago —Monk | a and his ‘‘ peace commissioners.” ’ Hee had lain in waiting, and accomplished their object. About the same time of the capture of Corduroy Charlie, Old Avalanche was in the great bar-room of the Big Schooner, along with a motley assemblace of miners, adventurers and toughs, who were drink- ing and smoking and making the night hideous with their carousa'. The Great Annihilator was not sharing in the revelry, but stood on one side of the apartment, en- gaged in smoking his pipe, and watching those around him. Florence Migneneale was sitting upon his haunches, dug-fashion, and the two eccentrics seemed to attract considerable attention, as well as to excite numerous uncomplimentary remarks. Among the roughs present were the bullwhacker, McTurk. an a few of his ilk, who, in general esti- mation, bossed the town. already emptied two pint The bullwhacker had bottles of Prefzel Pete’s perspiration-starting taran- t’ler and was feeling ingloriously tonguey and bois- terous, when by chance he discovered the Annibi- lator and his ‘ bull-dorg,” as the goat was f: known in z City. ; The eons we not the best friends, at any — H @ disposition te time, and to-night MeTurk had th raise a ‘‘ muss” with everyhody /

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. 19 “Hello!” he bellowed, in his prance about the room, ‘‘w'at hev we heer, b’yees? A goat—a livin’ goat, as I live! Whoop her up, Mary Ann! did ye evyer see sech an ornery Rost and goatee as them ‘ar’ two slouches thar ag’in’ ther wall? Regular wild-cat breed. an’ ugly as ary pair I ever see’d. I say, pilgrims, tell ine w’at et is, an’ I'll give et ter e? This caused a general gurgle of ee from the crowd; Avalanche looked coolly at the giant bully, who was nearly twice his size and weight: Florence, too, seemed to feel insulted, and curbed his head, and contracted his nostrils indignantly. While Pretzel Pete, who had seen enough disturbance for one evening, mounted the bar, with a heavy pair of army-navy revolvers in his clutch. ‘Order! order! here, shentlemens!”’ he cried, in the tones of a Stentor. I vill haff no more fuss mit my establishments—not vone! I shood der fursed man vot says Shack unt Jill dwice, so helb me, Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! never in such a blace in all mine life. Et ish vorser as a mad-house, mit all der lunaticks got drunk ash fools on Weiss beer!” : “Oh! dry up, Dutchy!” cried one of the roughs, a “right-bower”’ by the way, of the notorious MeTurk. ‘Don’t shoot off yer mouth any more, thes way, or I’ll send ye peregrinatin’ off on yer ear. Ef Honorable Mr. McTurk wants ter address thes heer meetin’, hayr’s w’at’ll back im!” ‘*Hooray! hooray! an’ heer, too!” yelled a chorus of voices. , ‘‘ Death ter ther galoot as sez Jem Mc- Turk ain't bur next president) Hooray!” “Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! did yh ever heer der peed mit dose?” the astonished ‘euton ejaculated, as he plun; abruptly back down behind lis bar. “Ef dot veller git der pe bresident mit der United States, I move back mit Shermany, so helb me!” z eTurk seemed flattered by the universal assur- ance of support by his brethren, and it also made him bolder, ‘ He pranved up and down bef re the Annihilator, with folded arms, drawing his evil countenance into as many grotesque shapes as possible, winking and * grinning, tantalizingly. Avalanche knew well enough that the bullwhacker was ripe for a quarrel, but he resolved to give him no satisfaction. He stood leaning against the wall, eying McTurk in his coo}, grim way, which was ex- asperatin, to the wild, untamed son of Colorado. “Yas! ther hom + bullwhacker o’ thes tele- phoue line am I, Jem McTurk!” he roared, squatting and peering with belligerent gaze into the vicious countenance of the goat. ‘“‘Oh! ye needn’t look vinegar ner git wrinkles on yer ear, durn ye! I’m thar every time, aire I!. Yas, an’ I'll bet any galoot two ter one I ken butt harder than ary pe thet ev- er see’d ther sun rise! Oh! whar art thou, ye soft- ‘rained galoots, who wanter bet thet Jem McTurk ken't butt ther brains out 0’ thet goat? Whar aire ye, lsay? Head ter head—two ter one I dash ther goat’s head in!” This novel proposal caused a titter of laughter to go around the room and bets were made rapidly on the respective qualities of the coming game-cocks, if snch they might be termed. There was no gainsaying the fact that McTurk had # head of great proportions, and his skull was firm and hard as arock. While on the other hand, Flor- ence Night-in-a-gale was blessed with as tough a forehead as ever graced the goat kind, backed with a temper like an enraged cat, and a stubbornness that was unconquerable. “ Great ham-bone thet bucked ther larynx of old Joner!’’ Avalanche snorted, as his goat was seized by the horns and dragged out upon the floor. ‘“Ye wanter be kinder keerful, pi/crims, onless ve’re par- tial ter positive an’ teetotal annihilation. Ye heven’t ther smallest ijeer 0’ w’at a magazine 0’ demolishun ar’ embraced wi'in ther constitoochinal dewellop- ments 0” thet ar’ same Florence Night-in-a-gale, i; I vas | Lordy! Qld Moses 0’ ther explorin’ expe“ition thru ther Biblical bull-rushes! Lonc’t see’d thet same un- ruly beast ram her head ag’in’ ther walls uv a meet- in’-house up in Yankton; ther terrific jar reverbe- rated ter ther telegraff offis, an’ ther frightened op- erator sent a dispatch eastward o’ w’at a fearful clap o’ yearthquake they. had in Yankton, Terrific? Why ye jest bet et war!” ¥ A few smiled at the Annihi'ator’s yarn, but the most of the crowd were too much engaged in the coming butting match. A lane bad, been formed the whole length of the barroom, flanked on both sides by the spectators, and in this lane the contest was to take rfp Florence was placed at one end, held in check by a couple of roughs until the proper moment, while McTurk took bis position at the opposite end, on ail fours, ready for the combat. It was caleulated that they would collide about midway in the lane. It-was an amusing scene, and well werthy of the brush of a Nast for illustration. MeTurk on all fours, drawn back, ready for the start, and looking as bel- ligerent as possible, while it was all the two guards could do to restrain the impetuous Florence from rushing at hisenemy. Yor the goat seemed to have — an actual hatred for the bullwhacker, as was evi: — denced by its eagerness to open the battle, and by | the shaking of its head, Perhaps, when bs saw what was imminent, Me Turk might have drawn off, but he knew such a — thing would brand him with cowardice, and he re- solved to back his bets, which were large. ‘ Avalanche had also had time to bet largely on bis — fame, for he‘had great faith that no species of the Boat race berter knew the science of butting than d Florence Night-in-a-gale. At last everything was ready; the bar-room was crammed full; silence had been established; then Pretzel Pete, from the top of the bar, cried: “ Now, den, pring out yerswi minvit horsee Hip} yip! led ’em sblide!” And the fun began. © CHAPTER XI. HEAD TO.HEAD- WARDYSLLE’S STORY. “GREAT rampageous bam-bone thet war therfa- tal ailment uv old Joner!” roared Old Avalanche; — with a snort of laughter. as Florence Night-in-a-gale bounced away down the lane with an indignant baa- a-a. and his knotted head curved in proud disdain. “ Great shaders 0’ ther peregrinations!”” - At the same juncture bounded MeTurk away to meet his combatant, making a ludicrous spectacle as he bobbed along upon all fours toward the goat, The crowd gave a great yell of delight.as the two heads came together, making a report audible in any portion of the room, : “H oray! Three wee s fermy Florence Night-in- a-gale!”” yelled Old Avalanche, with a roar of laugh- ter, as he saw the bullwhacker draw back and shake his tough head with a savage snarl. “Bf ye ten find ther eFalter my old rampagfous _ ‘int, pilgrim, hyar’s w’at’ll give an eagle fer ther sast. How d'ye like et, Honor’ble McTurkey—how did et feel about ther time ye felt et?” ““Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina!” cricd Pretzel Pete from his stand on the top of the bar. “Dose vas de toughest beads vot I never see’d pe- fore. I t'ink you no knock ’em ober mit von proad- ax, so helb me. “Til bet my nile on our next presydent, ther Hon- orable Mr. McTurk!? allowed another miner, and the two drew back for the second round—crouched back like the cougar, eye meeting eye with savage intention, Then came another collision, and Florence Jeaped back on guard. Net eo with the bullwhacker. _ He keeled over backward, axl then rose to his feet, rubbing his hand dolefuicy apon his bruised fore- head, from which the blood oozed down over b face and into the corners of his eyes and mouth. ea “Whoop! Great antiquated ham-bone wat war

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smile. 20 ther thorn o’ Joner’s rose-bud!” yelled Avalanche, dancing around with the hugest kind of delight.- “Did ye see how purty ther beast give ‘our next presydent’ a headache? Look at him, an’ tell thes old devastatin’ eppydemic w’ich won ther match!” ‘The goat! Three cheers for the goat!’ proposed some one, and they were given with a zest that only fu ther increased the anger of the bruised bully. * Devils! I'll murder the ornery brute!’ he bel- lowed, grabbing a pistol from a bystander’s belt and leveling it at the victorious Florence, who was sit- ‘ting upon his haunches, dog-fashion, by the side of his master. But be was not permitted to fire, for his weapon was knocked up, and the bullet s ceilingward. Then he saw who it was that had frustrated his de- signs, and the crowd gasped: ‘Buster! by thunder!” **Yos, Buster, back again on the stage of active life!’ was the girl’s reply, as she stepped fearlessly into the ring so lately commanded by the belligerent head-butters, ‘‘I reckon ye’d better git, Jem Mc- Turk, before I tell these natural guardians of mine oe. th .t will cause them to hang you up toa ree The bullwhacker uttered an invective as he glared for a moment at the fearless and beautiful girl; then he turned and staggered out of the saloon, for he was dizzy and disconeerted by the severe butting he had experienced. “There goes one of the worst wretches in the Hills, fellows!” the girl cried, as she watched him out—'‘a man Who is a human ghoul at heart and in secret actions; for he is connected with those bar- barous wretches whom you have knownas the War- riors of the Sun-God. He is one of the nts of the devil-woman, Ugly Ann, and if you wish to know where so many of your fellows have disappeared to within the past year, perhaps he could best tell you, The miners and pilgrims stared around the bar- room into each other’s faces,in surprise. This was news to them, Spying out Avalanche, Buster hastened over to him with extended hands. She was looking won- drously fresh and beautiful, and every inch a young dandy, as she stood aceoutered in her suit of gray, with a ae fold chain strung across her vest, and a jaunty soft hat upon her regal head. “Oh! Lam so glad that [ have found you, Alva!” she exclaimed, eagerly. ‘I feel sure you have got the news I seek—concerning the whereabouts of your friend, Corduroy Charlie!” . Andapretty blush stole upon the fair face as she spoke, and her gaze igh ee) under the quizzical ' gtare of the grim scout. He laughed before speak- I ale peculiar little chuckle quite original with him- self, “So ye’re soft on ther b'yee, eh?’ he questioned, meditatively— kinder tender an’ sympathetic, whar he’s got a finger in ther pie. eh?” ‘*Indeed, no,” Buster replied, flushing with embar- tassment, for the scout’s eyes had read only too sharply. “ Why should I take any interest in a stranger, further than feel anxious for his welfare, as your friend?” é _ “Waal, I ken’t say jest why, gal, for ye females Aire as hard ter decipher as ther hieroglyphicks on old Cleopatra’s darnin’ needle. But Irecky ye hev a leetle admiration for ther boyee, an’ I ken’t blame ‘ye, as he’s purty nigh */ite, he is.” “ Be that as it cea I don’t propose to discuss my likes and_ dislikes here,’’ Buster replied, with 4 “T spoke of Corduroy Charlie to find out of you had learned anything of his whereabouts.” “Wich I ain’t!”’ the Annihilator replied, grimly— a l’arn. Reckon as_how he’s pene kicked ther pail, or else bin captured an’ slain by old Ugly _ Ann’s warriors.” re — don’t really believe the latter, Alva, do you _ “ Waal, I don’t b’lieve much else, I’ve s’arche “nary -what Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. high ’n’ low for ther lad, but nary a hide nor hair ean I find of him, which ar’ a leetle suspicious.” uy Indeed ! yes, and I shall make it nay business to find him. gel. Besides; luk sharp fer thet same *Reckon ye wanter cTurk, He ain’t purticklarly in love fer ye.” “Yes, Iam well aware of the fact. But if he gets ¥e in his power, it will be much more than I expect ow. “Great ham-bone! ye’re a glorious trump, Buster, An’ since ye're goin’ ter lay fer, ther resky o’ Cordu- roy Charlie, thes great riotous AR eno o’ demoli- shun ain't goin’ ter be fur behind!’ “ Good enough!” Buster se pa }.and shaking hands for the last time, she turned and left the saloon. Avalanche waited awhile; then he too quitted the place, returning to Buster’s cabin. But she was not there. e’ll hev yer pains fer nix, Early the following morning Judson Wardville en- tered the Big Schooner, and ascending to the hall- way above, knocked at the door of his suit of rooms. His wife, attired in an airy wrapper, ad- mitted him eagerly. but started back with an ex- clamation of astonishment and alarm as she viewed, him, for he looked anything but the same man who had left her the previous ¢vening with the assurance of a speedy return. His face was scratched, and the blood had coagu- lated on it from the wounds; his eyes had a wild look, and his face was deathly pale; his beard had been torn out by handfuls, and his hat was gone, and Sete splashed and daubed with mud, Alto- gortiow he the appearance of a man who had m upon a week's spree; and that he was fatigued mae ay for he sunk into a chair with a sigh of relief. ‘* Well—Judson—Wardville!” his good wife ejacu-_ lated, half between tears and laughter—‘ you're in a ree coudition, aren’t yqu? ere, for goodness sake, have you been ever since last night?” “Brandy get me brandy!” Mr. Wardville gasped, excitedly. ‘'I must have it to strengthen me!” “* You drink Lenien Bart sir, a temperance man?”? exclaimed his better-half, in horror. “Blast temperance! Go fetch me the brandy, I eT almost yelled the husband. ‘Go! start!” naccustomed to such an exhibition of excitement and command on the part of her husband, Mrs, Wardville hastened from the room in terror,and de- scended to the bar-room below, where she purchased the largest bottle to be had of brandy, and hurriedly returned to her rooms. Wardville seized the brandy, as a drowning man catches at a straw, and dashing off the neck of the bottle, proceeded to gulp down the ardent as if his future salvation depended upon it, Nor did he set the bottle upon the table until fully half of its contents had ppeareil as if by ie, “Ah! that’s heaven!” he exclaimed, with a smile. i su Heer you are dying to know what is the mat- r, Mad Not exactly dying, but wonderi reatly 1!” , ly!” re- plied Mrs. Wardville, sadly. “ Last nie ft Ibid you ati Sis an hour, at the longest, you said—and ere you come to me ina horrible state of disorder, and will not give a word of ee ere until you have swallowed half a quart of the nasty stuff you call brandy. Really, I cannot understand, sir.” ¥ ee to tell the truth , I’ve been on the war-path, lear ‘On the war-path, Judson? Surely allied yourself with tho horrible Sioux “Well, hardly, as I don’t believe those savage ma- rauders would accept of so sorry a looking object as Imust be. ThoughI am pretty well used up with exhaustion, if you will listen, Pll try and tell you has happened.” ; : Asan assurance that she was not unwilling, Mrs, m i have not

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. Wardville dropped into a chair; and then after clearing his throat her husband spoke. “After leaving you last evening, my dear, I de- scended to the street, proposing to have a uct smoke. Without thinking what I was doing, I got quite away from the main street of the town, out into the valley, before I discovered the fact, turning to retrace my footsteps, I received a hard blow, which must have stunned me, for I knew nothing more until Lawoke to consciousness in a sort of chaparral glade, and found a i aire peed ing hag bending over me. She was wild-eyed and yellow-skinned—a repulsive-looking object in the extreme; yet I could but recognize her features,”’ = bay You recognize her, Judson? Who could she have een? ; “Our enemy, Madge—she who was the curse of our early life—the viper that sought to slay us, then struck us even a harder blow—Alecia Madronna!” ‘“What! sie here, dadson?”’ “Pxactly; and it was she whom I found bending over me, The moment I awoke to consciousness she began scratching and clawing me, and, being bound iwas powerless to resist... She recognized me, called me by name, and demanded to know in a mad fren- zy why I had come—tried to force me to promise that [would go back to the States. This I would not romige, and I think she would eventually have illed me, but for the interference of a young ranger who drove her off, and released me. Scarcely paus- ig 6 thank him, I plunged off in pursuit of the hag, I chased her out of the valley, through gulches and over rugged mountain paths, with the zest of a hound. I was maddened—infuriated more than ever before, and I was bent on overtaking her, and fore- ing her to tell me where my children are. But the devil was leagued against me, and I finally lost sight of her in the mountains, and was forced to give up the chase ” ‘“*Ah! then our last hope is lost!” Mrs. Wardville moaned, piteously. ‘She will hasten to put our darlings out of our reach—to ull them, perhaps!”’ * Do not despair, dear wife. My hopes are higher now than ever, for I believe the young man who res- cued me to-night was our son!” “Oh! God be praised! Did you speak to him?” “Only to thank him, for his resemblance to you ‘did not oceur to me until a short time ago. I made inquiries for him on my return, but no one seemed to possess the least knowledge of his whereabouts.” “Whas will you do, dear husband?” “What? Why, U’ll get into some better clothing, arm myself, hire a guide, and set out in seareh of Alecia Madronna, Once she is captured, half the work isdone. Wecan then pursue the search for our children with more safety. And God giving us his aid, I feel that we shall find them, whom we have 80 faithfully hunted during the past sixteen years. “Amen!” responded Mrs. Wardville, fervently. CHAPTER XII. AMERICAN WONDERLAND—IN THE DUNGEON, Tu captors of Corduroy Charlie were the gam- bler, Monk Morgan, and his associates, Grizz] George and seyeral others. They had stolen a mare upon him, and now stood leaning over him, grinning out their triumph, “Haw! haw!’ Monk Morgan laughed, hoarsely. “Thet's ther time we got ye, l reckon, young feller. Ye war a leetle ter smart fer us.in the canyon yon- * der, w’en ye fetched Deadwood Dick ter yer aid, but - we've triumphed, at last!’ “Yes, you've triumphed in one sense of the word,” ay Charlie replied. ‘But, what good my capture is going to wrk you, I cannot see.” “ Beea’se yer iperoteeac hg the iy ye see!” laughed the ruffian, “Ef ye knowd w’at heeps o’ gold yer body an’ soul’d bring in ther temple 0’ ther Sun- Worshipers, ye ked_ see plain enongh. Ye’re goin’ ter take a ride up thar, an’ then Rit butchered afore a golden idol, Ww! haw! haw!’ are 21 Charlie did not reply. He resolved to keep his thoughts, his doubts, his fears all to himself, under a mask, and await the ~ issue. F “ He doubted not that the segsbler had spoken truly concerning his fate, for he had learned enough since his coming to Quartz City, to apprise him that he. ae spect no merey should he fall into the hands of Ugly Ann. * And that she had seco him when he had driven her off and released Judson Wardville, he felt almost certain, for at the time he had noted a sud- cs eenchiig glare in her eyés before she turned and fled. Indeed, he felt ina small degree rejoiced that he had fallen into the hands of Ugly Ann’s agents, for they would doubtless pouvey: him to the mountain temple, where poor Lily had gone before him, and he might be able to turn a hand. toward her rescue, Mon moe and his villainous. followers did not pees long for conversation, but soon led a stud of © horses from a neighbo: corral, and niounted. * Corduroy Charlie was bound upon a spirited ani- mal, and rode between Grizzly George and Bison Bill, while Morgan and his gang led the way. They rode due southward across the vale, takin; care to fight shy of the cabins, which were scatte: around, and entered a rugged path along the moun- tain base, where it was necessary to ride insingle — : file. : After following this in its winding course for some — time, they descended into a deep narrow fissure be- tween two towering walls of rock, where they still had to ride in single file. Gorduroy Charlie kept his "eyes wide open as he rode between his guards, and noted éach and every feature of the route over which they were traveling. He knew that. they were advancing into the very heart ,of a wild, mountainous country, and that should he ever be granted a chance to escape from it, he must needs know which way to go. A few points taken now might be the means of his salva- tion then, ’ After following the narrow fissure for several miles, seemingly, they came into more open coun- try, where there was an abundance of rocks and trees, and the earth was sandy and barren. Cross- ing this, they fairly entered the National Park, with its thousands of wonders of nature; its towering peaks and voleanic evidences of the past; its boiling springs and spouting geysers; its long, gloomy can-- yous and pine forests. . - Day,came sooner than Charlie had expected, and found them riding furiously along over lava, table- lands thousands of feet above the sea level, leaping terrible chasms and avoiding treacherous sinks, A prisoner though ke was, the ride was one that Charlie euuered wonderfully; for there was some- thing novelin dashing over the tops of mountaing so far above the abode of humanity, where the Cre- ator bad evidently piled up his surplus material, after Fen gee Wee world, inan incongrubus mass. . Ib seemed that they rode miles over this desolata waste of country, with its gleaming springs and spouting geysers, and erystal streams, ere they came in sight of anything higher to break the mo- notony, 3 a During the whole ride not a word was spoken by. ; “the young Bravo’s captors, except it was a curse at the wearied animals. They kept along a trail which had evidently been much worn, and made no halt until the noonday sun shone down fiercely upon their heads, Then they halted at the foot of an abrupt moun- tain, whose whole sides, up to within a hundred feet of the top, were densely timbered with the evergreen pine. At the foot of the mountain was a rude shanty, part. of which was used as a stable and the rest tenanted by an Indian and his squaw. : Charlie also discovered the fact that there were several baying bloodhounds within the shanty. = _ A general dismount was made here, and the horses or Z & ¥ pet i

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3 —-roeky passage, along which seemed their descent, given over to the care of the savage, after which the ruffians set out to pursue the continuance of the mountain trail, forcing Corduroy along with them. His feet had been released, but his hands were still confined, so that he had no show for escape, es- ecially when Grizzly George and Bison Bill kept closely on either side of him. The pan up the mountain-side was steep and diffi- cult of ascent for the first hundred feet, and only one accustomed to hunting trails would have dream- ed of its existence. But, after the first hundred feet of ascent, Charlie was greatly surprised to find him- self ascending steps of stone, which had been skill- fully hewn or placed, This ro¢ky staircas2 continued for perhaps two or three hundred feet more, when they suddenly gain- ed the summit of the mountain, : It was level, and fringed around its entire border with a row of tall. spectral pines, grown so ¢ together. as to make a hedge in many places impas- sable. Within this hedge was a ee comprising some twenty acres of plateau, with grass growing luxuriantly here and there, and a few young deer trotting tamely about. In the center of the space was an open stone edi- fice, with a roof of the same material, supported by massive granite columns. A sort of dais or throne rosé up in the center, and on this was a massive stone chair. At either corner of the temple leaning against the columns was an tdian warrior, armed with a long Janes, and looking as solemn as though carved from the rock against which they leaned. Beyond this temple was a stone wall, which divded the summit park into two parts. Immediately on emerging on top of the mountain, Monk Morgan ordered 4 halt, and, bidding his fol- Jawers remain behind, ne advanced toward the tem- ple with uncovered head, He add essed a few words to one of ths guards, then was sud:lenly seen to descend through the floor of the temple, as if going into the bowels of the mountain. 2 He was gone for perhaps an hour, during which fnterval neither Charlie nor his captors moved from where he had left them. At last, however, Morgan made his appearance, and appr ached with a grim smile, - ‘This is ther place, younker,”” he said, addressing Corduroy. “1 s’pose ye’re already delighted wi ther prospect?” **Not in the least, Isee nothing to admire in this desolate region, unless I take into consideration the esa faces of my captors,” was the sarcastic reply. “Look out, ye galoot. Don’t ram none o’ yer sharp-edged ‘barbs at our as a the gambler “growled. ‘“ Grizzly,.you and Bison hold the rat while ’ TY blindfold him. Once we git him in the subterra- nean labyrinths of this mountain, you bet your life he wn’t see day ag’in till ther rezzereekshun!” 2cordingly the two rufflans seized hold of their victim, and held him in a firm grasp, while Monk Morg in passed a bandage over his eyes, and secured it behind his head, : ‘ Charlie made no attempt to prevent this work—in- deed, what could he do, bound as he was? But he elosed his teeth together with a snap, and registered iaentally an oath of vengeance on the heads of these men who, fora little gold, were bearing him +o a horrible death. When he was blindfolded he was led forward, and soon found himself descending a flight of stons steps, accompanied by Morgan. the two guards, and ae rest of tue gang that had come from Quartz ‘ity: At one-time he had some doubts if they should ever reach the bottom of the stairease, so continuous But finally the last step re- sulted in finding footing on a | ottom of a hard, hey marched with sharp, ringing tread, Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. The air was close“and chilling, and occasionally Charlie beard water splash beneath their feet. And it seemed to him that their route was the most angular and crooked he had ever traveled, For at the end of half an hour's steady march, he was com- pletely mystified in regard to the direction of his en- trance to the subterranean depths. It was then that a halt was made; he heard a grat- ing sound, and was pushed forward. He was ful- lowed by one of the guards, who removed the bonds from his arms, after which he quickly retreated, and there was a repetition of the grating sound and a ving of iron. ow that his arms were free, Charlie quickly tore the bandage away from before his eyes, and gazed around him, 2 What met his sight was no more than he had an- ticipated. ; of He was locked within a strong, TORRY. tion aoe entrance was guarded by alent n-slattod oor. -This was secured by chains and bars on the oppo- site side, so that for one imprisoned within the dun- geon, there was no possible escape, The grim, evil faces of his captors he could see looking through the iron lattice-work, and if med- dened him, but he withheld his anger by a strong, controlling effort. “Haw! haw! haw!” roared Monk Morgan, jubi- Jantly, “thar ye aire, yonker, as nice asa bug in a rug, How d’ye like yer quarters? Neat an’ snug enuff fer a prince. ain't they?” “Tf you admire them, I'll exchange with you,” Corduroy replied, with a glance around. “Gitout! 1 would’nt be so gol-durned mean’s ter rob ye 0’ yer comfortable roost, nohow!” retorted the ruffian, with a guffaw. ‘“ Couldn’t nevyer fer- give myself o’ deprivin’ ye o’ yer nest, my gay robin!’ * How long am I to be kept here?” “Waal, thet depends. e see, ther old gal. Usiy Ann, hain’t got back yet, an’ we hey ter wait her nd- tion. Most ‘ikely ye'll git a furst-class send-off as soon as she comes.”’ “Thank you, You may go now. When T want you I'll whistle!” Charlie said, with mock dignity, which elicited a yell of laughter from the rufflans. They n»wturned away, however, and Charlie Ks- tened to them tramping along tho dismal, rocky- hewn Le pe until the suund of their footsteps was but a faint echo. Then, with a sigh of relief, he began to inspect his bist Noeaty os He was fortwzately not Jeft in total darkness. A torch was thruss in a niche in the wall of the passage just opposite his door, and by the glare of it bis cun- geon was quite well lighted, The dungeon he found to be furnished with 2, ree cot, covered with wolf-skin, and a tahle and chair, : Aside from these articles there was nothing but gray rock and the iron door. The passage and the dungeon had evidently been chiseled out by the hand of man, and showed a taste of architectural sculpture quite surprising to find © — so far beyond the bounds of-civilization. But_the wonderful explorative discoveries of Professor Hay- den, warn us not to be surprised at anything in the National Park, as still more wonderful discoverics of the systematic engineering of savages of past generations and ages are being brought to Hght weekly, in the still mcre northwestern territories. Look at the remnants of underground cities that have been unearthed, suggesting new ideas, orizinal _ with prehistoric man—almost as wonderful as te excavations at Pompeii and its surroundings! Hav- - den_has truly remarke|, that the ancient races of. the National Park and far Northwest, aided hy =. : lime nature, turned out some of the greatest won- ders of the world. ; ; The passage leading past the dungeon, Chirlie could see, by pebring through the grates,ran buta

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r Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. few yards in either direction, when it turned an abrupt angle, “I wonder, in fact, where I am!’’ he muttered, shaking the door, with a vain hope that he might be able to get it open. ‘‘Itseems to me that I must be at the very bowels of the mountain; and it would puzzle me to find my way out, should J succeed in sescaping from this dungeon. That I mean to do if it is within human power, for I have not the least desire to shuffle off this mortal coil yet awhile!’’ His hands were free, and this was a great advan- tage. And furthermore, he was not unarmed, as his eaptors had supposed after relieving him of his belt- weapons and searching his pockets. On pulling off his boots, he drew out of the first a knife, and thena little seven-shooter, carrying a 22 cartridge, “Hal ha! they didn’t quite leave me helpless, after all!’ the prisoner muttered, as he examined ue Fey mabe ee pistol a ‘seven ae et ie knife a a couple, can only get ou! this cell, Rather a grim Ml, too, I tak ‘ - Twonder how soon any of that gang will be back here? I want to get out of this before long, in order to find Pera ts to eat. Must be pretty near dark out o’ oors. — . A glance at bis watch, which the ruffians %ad not molested, showed him that it was six o’clock Pp. m. As he stood gazing around bim, meditating on how to act first and best, his eye rested upon the rough pine deal-table, to which he had given but a casual glance before. Now, however, he gave an exclama- tion of surprise, and approached it curiously. > CHAPTER XIU. SEEKING ESCAPE UNDER DIFFICULTIES. Tr was a common affair, unvarnished and illy-made, evidently having some day served-its purpose as eard-table in some mining strike, But what called Corduroy’s attention to it was the fact that it had a little drawer, perhaps two feet wide, as many long, and half a foot deep, affixed in its bed. This was singular, as none of the common deal-tables sported such accommodations; and. ‘moreover, the drawer had a key-hole, suggestive of an inside lock. “T wonder what secrets this old concern has for me!” Charlie muttered, with a chuckle, as he drop- ed his weapons into his boot-legs and then gave the able a good shaking. ‘Hello! there’s something in that drawer, too!” He seized hold of the knobs, but the drawer re- fused to open. It was locked. ‘ ‘“Wastened, eh? and I haven’ta key. Wonder if it’s worth my while to bia’st the old thing open? If I was sure of finding tools or victuals, ’d make short work of it, Ireckon. Ah! the top of the table is fastened on with screws, and I can work them out with my knife.” He set to work at once, keeping an eye, however, out in the passage, to prevent being surprised. The screws were old and rusty, and turned hard. But he finally had them all lo-sened, and then hesitated before lifting the top. What mystery was ? Y quickly returned it to its place on the bed-piece of the table, slipped the screws into his pocket and the knife into his boot-leg, after which he threw himself in a lounging position upon the cot. And just in time! A moment later a horribly-painted: savage and Monk Morgan presented themselves before the grated door. : “Hello! in hyar! W’at war thet racket in thes — direction, a little while ago?” the gambler demand- ed, with acurse. ‘Sounded like as if a hull lumber pile hed tumbled down.” “Hal ha! can't a fellow turn his bedstead upside down, to see if it is inhabited by bugs?” replied _ Charlie with a laugh. ‘ Guess you must be nervous, if you get frightened at a little noise.” * Didn’t know but ye igh eee fer ter escape!” Morgan replied, grimly “ Thet wouldn't do, ye see, beca‘se ther b'ars too eager fer their meat. And, by the way, what is _your lunch hour down here?” “What! ain’t gittin’ hungry, aire ye?” “Waal, not exactly hungry, but my stumache is inclining slightly toward my back-bone, and it struck one that a little provender might_remedy t. e diffi- culty. “Haw! haw! thort ye’d git vorashious after awhile. Waal, we'll see w’at kin be did fer ye during the next twenty-four heurs.” And the rafifant turned away with a chuckle, fol- lowed by the savage guard. é Charlie listened until they were out of hearing, then sat up on the edge of the rickety old cot. “A narrow escape!” he muttered, with a smile. **T calculate I shut the pilgrim’s eye up so far as the cause of the noise was concerned. Wonder if he knows of the existence of that golds Tdare say no‘; probably it belongs to that old hag, Uely Ann, an she placed it in that drawer, believing it a secure hiding-place. The old Turk! If I don’t fill my pock- ets out of that drawer, may I be kicked to death by a jack mule, as old California Bill used to say. But leaving aside the question of gold for the present, my uext business is to make a break for liberty. And how am I going to do it without teols? That's the question before the debating court. How am I going to get out?” an’ beasts'd be cheated out o°& first-class dinner on ye ” nets “Oh! they would, eh? Well, tell em not to git — It was a knotty question "and he spent manyjhours _ in meditation, without any definite result. ithout the aid of tools, which he did not possess, he saw no way of escaping from the dungeon. In ancient historical romances, he remembered of — converting a common clasp knife into a saw, w which they would eventually work their way out ee gateways of iron and barricades of rock. \Sucb an idea, now, seemed to him out of the ques- tion. He would wear out several knives ere he could cut out of his present dungeon. So he sat upon the cot, and gazed about, with very little hope, upon his surroundings. having read of prisoners escaping from dungeons - The hands of his watch pointed to the hour of six,- and he judged that it must be morning in the out- _ side world, when once more footsteps echoed in the — passage outside his dungeon, and Morgan and the — guard put in a second appearance. ‘*Oh! ye’re here, are ye?’ the gambler leered through the grates, as he hurled several pieces of cooked meat in upon the floor of the cell. “ Didn’t know but you'd take leave of us in the same mys- terious manner that a brother victim did a oe ago. wo some grub fer ye, so’t ye ken’t say I starved 3 3 “T thank you for the meat, and the delicate man- ner in which you served it up,” Charlie replied, sar- Soabt one “Small favors are appreciated accord- — ing to their scope. Did you have the meat well cooked?” ‘Waal. I be durned ef ter ask thet! 0’ course et to be eee tohim? What secret did the drawer contain He glanced around—no one was in view. Then, a trifle nervously, he raised the wide pine board, and gave a glance into the space disclosed. He gave a et of surprise, and dropped the board upon the rocky floor. The drawer was /alf full of yellow nuggets of gold, vary ng from the size of a bean up to a robin’s egg, and in several cases as large as a hen’s egg. Yes! Rs shining gold, free from rock or dirt—the genu- ne simon-pure article. Corduroy. Charlie care a gasp of astonishment, as he gazed upon the gleaming treasure. But as the echo of Ge footsteps smote peiewiiig hearing, his quick presence of mind assert- icself. : He seized the board, whose noise in falling had ~ evidently attracted the attention of a guard, and | ye aint. got a hard cheek — "s well done, ye cuss. An’ Z

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. by ther way, let me drap ye a word o’ good cheer. e ain’t a-goin’ ter perigrinate fer Jordan alone, as ‘hed aa passengers hev won tickets in ther jot- er : How do you mean?” “Simple enough. Jem McTurk jest arrived wi’ a couple o’ prisoners, who’re goin’ ter be sacrificed - along wi’ ye. Their names aire, respectively, Dead- wood Dick an’ Clever Sam, the Oelestyal,” ““What! Deadwood Dick, here?” “Exactly. Reckon thar’ll be sum fun when et sepia turn ter surrender his speerit ter ther Sun- ‘Me will not falter, you bet!” Corduroy replied, enthusiastically. ‘‘ Where is my sister, you devil? “Oh! she’s safe, but crazy as a lunatic. Bet she’d outsereech old Ann, in one o’ her tantrums!” “Curse you; and you and another have brought her to this!” the young captive gritted fiercely. “God help you, Monk Morgan, if [ ever get my hands at your throat.”’ . a *Oh! I ain’t afeard o’ ye!” the rufflan replied, with a loud laugh. ' _ “Put a poll-paroquet in his cage, an’ all he kin do is talk and claw the bars,” And the villain turned away, followed by the guard, chuckling at his attempt to be fagetious. 7 “So the Mol parrot is caged!’ Charlie gritted, Ditiag his lips, ‘‘but, maybe it won’t be so forever, IT wonder how long before they expect to sacrifice me? Kyidently, Ugly Ann has not yet returned, and the interasting eeremony*will be postponed until her arrival. In the meantime—”’ The; first thing to occupy his attention was’ the meat that Morgan had hurled in upon the floor. He icked it up and laid it upon the table, after which 6 scraped the dirt from it with his knife. ’ He next cut it up imto small -pieces and proceeded to devour it, ina ravenous manner,-for bis appetite was keen. It was rare done, as he liked it, and pro- perly seasoned, After satisfying his appetite, he stored the meat - left in the drawer along with Ugly Ann’s gold, taking eare to replace the table-top in its customary place, _.. He then sat down upon the cot again and gave himself up to a study of his surroundings. Hach _ crevice of the masonry of nature was scanned eager- ly, over and over again. Some old and wise writer, whose name I now forget, says: “Persevering watchfulness never fails to bring a _ discovery !"” | And thus it was in Charlie’s case. Ha had gone over the wall, perhaps, for the hundredth time, _ searchingly, when he noticed for the first that in _ places the rear walls of the bag sti had been ma- _ soned by human hands. Large blocks of stone had - been putin, here and there, to fill up crevices and gaps. : _\ The,discovery gave him a joyful start. _. Was there nof another passage on the ores 2 side of this wall? And by someeffort could he not _ break through ahd escape? _ Monk Morgan had spoken of the mysterious escape _ of a prisoner a year before. _ How had he done it? Perhaps through this very masoned wall. f . Over and over again Corduroy Charlie scanned the wall with an intense eagerness; but it was no use! - The longer he looked the more hopeless seemed his quest, and at last he was forced to give up and sink upon the cot in sheer despair, At noon, Morgan came and glanced in again. " ‘Here yet, L sce!” he said, tauntingly. “ Find it kinder monotonous, eh?” _ ‘Hxtremely so,”’ Charlie replied. ‘‘ If I had some- ening to read and a light to read it by, it would be a _ great relief.” __ The gambler went off with a grim ‘‘ humph” and was absent a few moments, when he returned with & book and a tin.candlestick, with a candle in it. _ ‘Here's a Bible an’ a candle” he said, shoving th through the grating. ‘‘Mebbe ye feel 2 ious on account o’ yer approachin’ death, an’ dese ayr ‘ll give ye cumfort,”” -“T am very thankful,” Charlie replied, with as much cordiality of tone as he could create for the occasion; “and if I ever get a chance to repay you, I shall doubtless do so. Has Ugly Ann arrive yet? ‘No, but she is hourly expected. Her right bower, Lieutenant Cressly, has arrived, however, accom: panied by his bride that is to be as soon,as Dead- wood Dick is dead,” “What! the faithless Leone Harris?” “You bet! An’ she’s a clipper, too, or ther lieu- tenant wouldn’t ’a’ took no stock in her. Oh, no!” And to Charlie’s relief the gambler went off again, out of hearing. Then the phe an prisoner laid the Bible upon the table, and took the lighted candle in his hand, It was the very thing he had been wishing for, , The torch in the passage did not reflect its Mlumi- nation on the upper portion of the back wall of the dungeon, and this was the very portion that Charlie desired to examine minutely. So taking the light in ene hand and mounting the chair, he began a closer scrutiny than he had been able to make before. *: He had scarcely begun when he heard footsteps and, with an impatient exclamation, he dropped into the chair, placed the candle upon the table, and : seized and opened the Bible. He was to all ap- pearances deeply engaged in poring over the ,Scrip- ture, when the new-comer paus at the grated door, but he looked up immediately afterward. . As he did so, and beheld the face Peering between the grates, he uttered a startled exclamation. bs: By heaven! you, Dion Avery!” he gasped, drop- ping the Bible and aprineiee to his feet. ‘“ You)” “Yes, [1 was the coo reply of the man outside. “ Bvidently you are surprised!” ‘Yes, and no, at the same time!” the Boy Bravo rBor fiercely, nearing the door, his hands clinched until the nails cut into the flesh, and his face stern and flushed with aroused passion. “1am surprised to find you here, after you have been so successful in eluding my pursuit; but not surprised to find you connected with the devil and his minions!” “Oh!” and there was a laconic laugh—“ so you are ! bitter, eh? Well, I don’t know as your fury affects me particularly. You are where you will never do me any harm—in fact, I have you in my power, as I am a sort of prime minister to the old hellion they eall Ugly Ann.” . “Ourse you! TI haye a mind—” “To burst from the dungeon and choke the life out of me, I dare say. Ha! ha! ha! but that is quite out of the question. You can’t get out, or you would have done so long Be “T don’t expect to get out, luckily for you. Dion Avery. But, fear not; your day will come, as that of every dog of yourilk mustcome. You ruined m. sister’s young life —my poor, crippled sister, an thereby drove her into madness, from which she can neyer recover in this world. Surely God will avenge her, if I cannot!” “ Heroically spoken, my dear Madison; but, really, I cannot agree with op that our great Master will punish so very slight a misdemeanor. By the way, I was just searching out your sister’s dungeon that I might.offer her my consolation. I guess must have wandered into the wrong peg H And with a low, malicious laugh the arch-villain turned and retraced his steps along the corridor. Corduroy stood gazing after him until he had dis- appeared. He was enraged more than he remem- bered of ever having been before; but it did not burst into a tempest, this stirred passion of his. Finally he turned back to the work he had left upon the approach of Dion Avery, or, as he is better known to our readers, Lieutenant Cressly, He seized the candle, and began acareful inspec- tion of the rear wall. Soy ‘ \

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. ae Ha! whatis this? A very small thing to attract attention—yet a hope! It was a single, almost indistinct scratch, yet a word—* Push /? What did if mean? Pysh/ Would the wall give way, and give him liberty? Was this, at last, the avenue of escape? CHAPTER XIV. THE BOWELS OF AN OLD VOLCANO—PROWLERS, Tue finding of the gold in the secret compartment of a table was in one sense a pleasing discovery, but it amounted to a simple nothingness compared with the discovery madé by Corduroy Charlie on the wall of the dungeon. 4 * Push?’ to bim had a significance akin to liberty, and he set the candle down upon the table, with a sigh eid satisfaction at having found out even this much. i “Here’s where the victim escaped from, whom Monk Morgan mentioned!” he muttered, standing fora moment indoubt. ‘‘ The next thing is—did he succeed in escaping from the mountain, or did he simply get clear of the dungeon, to find himself in another and worse prison from which there was no avenue of escape? This mountain evidently has, some day, been the home of a voleano, Where I en- tered was the crater, and these passages were the original flues, but have been carved and sculptured out by the Indians, In fact, the whole machinery of a volcanic mountain has been remodeled into an’ outlaw's retreat. What then lies beyond the secret wall? Perhaps death by starvation; but I shall make the attempt, and trust to luck. I have generally been pretty lucky.” There was no time to spare. He must work at once, and swiftly. The guards might return at any moment and catch him at his little game, when _he would be transferred to another dungeon, from which there could be no possibility of aces. ' Placing the table against the wall and the chair upon it, he mounted, - hen began the test! : Stone after stone he tried, pushing with all his concentrated strength, At last he came to the square block of granite upon which was scratched ? J the single word, push.” , And he did pusk! Glory !—the stone yields and glides back into a re- cess, disclosing a dark aperture, barely sufficient to admit the passage of a human body. * A second after the block had disappeared from view it came gliding gracefully back into its original position, and the aperture was closed, “T gee!” Charlie muttered. “The business is worked with weights, or a spring, closing automati- eal'y. The next question is, how deep down is the floor on the opposite side, I haven’t the least relish for dropping, any great distance before stopping. Ha! the deuce!—curse the luck, anyhow!” } It was a more extravagant word than the young Bravo was in the habitof using, but his provocation was great, when he heard a scratching and rattling of the vratings on the door of his dungeon, He wheeled around, his heart almost in his mouth —but the next moment he leaped to the floor with a joyful exclamation: ‘Lily! Lily!” For he recognized in the pale, deathly face peer- ing through the gratings the features of his sister. But, ah! how changed in a few days—what a ter- rible fire shone in the eyes! : She was supported upon her crutches and her face was pressed between the bars, making it have a dis- torted SE heehee “Lily! Corduroy Charlie repeated, advancing toward the door. “‘Lily’ don’t you know me?” The deranged cripple shrunk back, as if frighten- ed, the same wild, terrible stare in her eyes, ee A ae you know me? I am Charlie, your er , pe boats proprietor of the notorious Big Schooner sa Her face lighted up. fora moment; then she gave vent to a low, crafty laugh, and pulling a knife from the folds of her skirt, she brandished it aloft; then hobbled abruptly away in the direction she had come, ‘ “‘ Alas! hopelessly mad!” Charlie muttered, half- savagely, ‘‘and Dion Avery, as I know him to =. cost, is responsible before God for her terrible con¢i- tion, Curse him! May his torture in the future be as keen as has been poor Lily’s in the past. . He could not bear to dwell upon the subject in_ thought, and so he turned his attention to the work — he had left off. tl “There's the Mh eee good fortune, too—in that table,” he ngused, gazin at the piece of furniture, doubtfully. ‘I don’t reckon I’ve got any business to touch if, fer ’tain’t mine; though it wonld do me more good than that old hag, anyhow. Guess Ill leave if, though, until some future time,” at Once more he mounted the table, candle in hand, — and everything in readiness, Assuring himself by a glance that there was no one at the door, he pushed against the block, and it glided away out of view. The next instant he had drawn himself wp into the — aperture, candle in hand, and Soe out of sight in the darkness, after which the block glided back and filled the aperture. Charlie was out of the duhgeon at least. Three days later three persons were standing in the deep pine forest that covered the declivitous *‘mountain-side. All around them rose the grim _ forest monurebs, while overhead the wind sighed through the wilderness of evergreen branches, The men were Judson Wardville, Pretzel Pete, the x oon at Quartz City, and the veteran of'a thousand battles and scrimmages, Old Avalanche, the Annihi- lator, accompanied, as ever, by his faithful com- — panion, Florence Nig Ban bre 5 Judson Wardville was the leader of the quartette. oe goat, He had secured the services 0 Pretzel Pete and Avalanche, to assist him in his hunt for the old devil-cat, Ugly Ann, and thus far had been four days on the trail. : : i “Great everlastin’ bam-bone thet bucked erg*in’ ther_constitoochin uv old Joner!” the Annibilator — was saying, ashe gazed into the face of com- panions. “I recky we’ve lost ther trail agin, in spite uv ther Old Harry. Thes yere mountainar’ as — full o’ footpaths as my Florence's skull-plate aire — full 0’ veins an’ arteries, Fact, by gracious!” ~ ; Judson Wardville gave vent to an impatient ex- clamation. ‘ ay “Then the old hag has certainly eluded us, and escaped to the mountain-top, where, you say. Is lo- iis cated the Temple of the Sun-God and all her barba-_ rian forces?’ he said, interrogatively. “Waal, now, I reckon thet’s about ther grand — status uv ther matter. We’ve tuk ther wrong trail, — whar we orter hev took ther right, an’ thet’s w’at’s _ ther matter with our skientific engineering. Pro- ~ bably ther old ripseallion hes escaped, an’ will be cavortin’ down on us wi’ a gang 0’ her T’ rtars!”” : “Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina!” ejacu- — lated Pretzel Pete, with an alarmed glance aroun “Den I dink ash how I goes pack mit my Pig — Schooner immediately. I vas never mit sech a6 guntry in der "hole of mine life, so helb me.” 4 “Haw! haw! Old Moses o’ bull-rush ee j tions! ye ain't intra gittin’ skeer’d. Dutchy? — Lordy! thar’s my goat Florence, and my late mare, — Prudence Cordelkwr! hooray! they nevyer got skeered, not they. *T'warn’t their grain o’ timbe) Thar’s Florence alone who has held his own ag’in’ er milyun Injuns, an’ entranced ’em by ther simple — magnetism o’ ther eye. Great am-bone! don’t afeard, Dutchy-! no one’d hurt you!” nae “T scarcely know which way to move now,” Jud. son Wardville said gloomily. ‘‘ What is your opin- ion, Avalanche? I do not want to give. up, until Lit ie Nay tr!

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26 have got possession of the old she-devil, Ugly Ann. As [have told you before, I believe that the two waifs who came to Quartz and his crippled sister——a week ago are my long-lost children. e have obtained sufficient evidence to convince us that both have been captured by and are inthe possession of Ugly Ann. S!all we turn back and leave them to perish or shall we go on and work faithfully until we are able to rescue them. from the confinement, which is but a foretaste of a horrible death?” “Great ham-bone! we'll go on!” replied Ava- lanche. “*Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! ve go ou mit der hill up!” vociferated Pretzel Pete, stirred into a state of enthusiasm. ‘‘Ve lick sevendeen kinds of plue plazes oud of der enemy, so helb me! Only I vish { had swi glass lager, unt I veel ash if I lick der hull ormy.” “ Thet’s right, Germany! Ster up yeranymation, put yer right fut for’a’d, an’ march. Shoulder arms, all hands, and form in battle array—an’ away we go! _ It was with some misgivings as to his personal safety that Corduroy Charlie let the ledge and - dropped into the darkness beyond the dungeon. He knew not but what he would fetch up in some awful depth, a crushed and bleeding piece of humanity. But most any condition he considered better than the fate that would be his should he be sacrificed by the barbarous Indians, who controlled the mountain fastness, Down—down he went, for perhaps his length, then struck upon a hard rocky footing. In hisde scent his candle had gone out, but luckily he had a few matches lft, and soon had a light. ~ On flaring the light about, he found that he was in a narrow, low, and rugged passage, which seemed to grow more contracted the further it advanced. Before tracing it, Charlie coneluded to examine the machinery which worked the trap stone. He . found that it was managed by a s‘illful and ingeni- ~ ous arrangement of puleys and pivots; also that he eould ascend upon the projections of rock, and pull ‘back the block and re-enter the dungeon at his own pleasure, by a very little exertion. This was a welcome discovery, as he might be able to mnie his escape by it, into another part of the crater. After satisfying himself concerning the mechan- ism of the ores block, he turned, and with the can- dia held above his head, began to thread the rugged - flue, which had not be:n chiseled out by Indian ‘sculptors, but burned in the depths of the rock by so0m.+ ancient volcanic fire. _ “What a place this would befor a robber den!” the young Bravo muttered, as he moved along. ‘‘It isn'v’ much else, as it is. I wonder which direction ‘of the compass 1 am moving, anybow? South, { _ should guess. If I don’t Ind a way out directly, my - eandile will burn out, and then I shall be in a deuce of a fix, Hello!” H> tripped and nearly foll over some object which lay in his path. z Stepping back a pace, he lowered his light to ex- - amine it. As he did sv, he gave vent to an ejacula- ‘tion of horror. Before him lay the bones of a human skeleton, e oe ghastly enough as revealed by the candle- - * Jerusalem!” was Charlie’s first expression, in - words. ‘Ureckon this is a cemetery instead of an ‘avents of escape. I wonder who these bones origin- ally belonged to?” ; he spoke, a long, squirming object crept out of the skeleton, and darted away into a crevice, With a shudder, the young Bravo stepped over the ghastly object, and continued on through the pas- & >, othe afr was damp and foul smelling, and difficult ‘to breathe; but, with a firm resolution, Charlie kept City—Corduroy,, Charlie . Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. eee on. He was resolved not to give up while he had strength to move, His candJe burned lower and lower. : There was no draught throu h the passage, which wound on with the sinuosity of a serpent and the zig-zag irregularity of a flash of lightning. And this fact seemed to argue: that the had no adjacent outlet into the outside world. Snakes and creeping vermin were to be seen in © plenty along the route, where the floor of the pas- sage was covered with water. “T wish I could bid this mountain resume its flery eruption,’’ Charlie muttered. ‘ Wouldn’t there be some frightened red niggers up above! Guess I’d be apt to catch the worst part of the fun, though,” After tramping along for perhaps an hour, he. poe where a large bowlder offered a place for a seat, ‘ “*T guess I may as well sit down here and rest, as long as I’ve got plenty of sparé time, for I’m pretty well fagged out. Six p. m., eh?” with a glance at the face of his watch. ‘‘ Guess Ill eat the remainder of my venison, then take anap. I feel as if I could sleep a dog’s age away!” He produced what meat he had let from his first meal in the dungeon, and began’to devour it raven- assage ously. ts Lavdhdes if they have discovered my escape from. the dungeon yet.” he muttered, between his mouth- fuls. ‘if they have, there’ll be more war in the camp, They'll see the chair upon the table close to the wali, Will that lead them to examine the stones, and will they discover this passage? If so, [reckon I'll hear from them after a while. I don't know as 1 shall incur any danger by lying down, as I’m easy to waken.” : After finishing the venison to the last scrap, he felt somewhat-relieved, and prepared to sleep, Blow- ing out the candle, he stretched himself out in as comfortable a position as possible, and closed his eyes, But for a long time no slumber came as a relief to his weariness. His mind was too active, His aioe ne went first with pity to his sister, and then with hatred to him who called bimself Dion Avery. Then they reverted far away to Quartz City, and then to dashing, pretty Lena Vernon, and a pleased flush came to his cheek, and a strange sensation thrilled his heart. “That girl’s a trump!” he muttered, half-dream- ingly, ‘“ and from what little I saw of her, J Jike her, If I were ever to choose a wife, it would be such a vivacious creature as she. But, ha! ha! the idea of my thinking of a wife, when here’s grim death grin- ning at me maliciously. Sleep and escape are the first t xo considerations before thinking of matri- mony.”’- ‘ He finally fell asleep, and it was such a sleep as he had seldom known before—a complete oblivion. For hours he slumbered on peacefully. and in bis dreams he saw bright visious of Lena Vernon, or “* Buster.”’ And while he was thus sleeping. without, a thought of danger, Rpotstiibe echoed along the passage; then the light of a bull’s-eye lantern shot with mellow radiance between the rugged walls, and streamed upon the face of the sleeper. ‘*Come erlong, feller-citizens!” cried a voice; “here he is now!” es several men crowded up around the young ravo, Who were they—friends or foes? CHAPTER XV. DOOM PRONOUNCED—BAD MEDICINE KEEPS HIS OATH, “Gras him, b’yees, afore he wakes up, or thar’ll be cause for several funerals, fer he’s a double- pence leetle episode, w’en ye don’t take him at ‘au The command was quickly obeyed, and the first that Corduroy Charlie knew of his situation, he was. bound hand and foot, and the band of evil-faced

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? Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. ruffilans bending over him. Forit was Jem MeTurk and Monk Morgan, and their ‘“‘ peace commission- ers,” who had surprised bim while be lay asleep. It. was a vexatious discovery to him, but he con: cealed his real feelings under a mask of cool indiffer- ence, ‘So, you've got me again, eh?” he observed, calmly, gazing up into the ruffians’ faces; ‘‘and I suppose te calculate you've scored a victory.” “"Wral, we do recky we’ve did sumthin’ o’ thet sort!” replied McTurk, with a leer. ‘I reckon we nevyer do things by halves ner three-quarters, an’ consekently, we ginerally get in on ther hum-stretch in good sbape. ; And allthe toughs laughed at the bullwhacker’s attempred logic. He was looking even more repulsive than ever be- fore, for his forehead was bruised, and black and blue, from the battle with Florence the goat, and one eye was closed effectually, for ‘‘ repairs.” ‘How did you come to find the passage?” Charlie questioned. “Oh! thet war easy ernuff, from ther posish in wich ye left ther chair on ther table. “We s’arched ther wall, an’ found ther word ‘Push,’ an’ as a natteral consekence we pushed, you bet, and hayr we aire. Reckon ye warn’t loo in’ for us, war ye?” ‘No; T can’t say as I was exactly expecting you or T shouldn’t have yielded to Morpheus so easily.’ “Haw, haw !—it’s just as wall that ye did, for ye kedn’t never hey got out by this route. Mebbe ye stumbled over a skeleton back hayr, a piece? Waal, that war ther framework uv a human 0’ yer sex who tried this yere avenoo of escape over a year ago! Ye see how he succeeded. I "pect ye’re willin’ ter go back ter ther dungeon, eh?” ‘Certainly!’ Charlie replied, sarcastically: ‘I am not that hard-hearted that Tcould refuse your magnificent accommodations for guests.”’ There was a general chuckle among the ruffians, and Charlie was raised to his feet and the thongs cut away. He was then forced along the passage, between the captors, back toward the dungeon from which he had studied so long and patiently to make his es- cane, Half an hour later, the whole party were in the dungeon. ar z “Hayr ye aire, my posey:” McTurk said, with a diabolical grin. ‘Boys, tie his feet again, and lay him on that cot. We ken’t hev any more o’ these runaway escapades—not much, o! ho! thar ye aire, Mr, Corduroy Charlie, an’ ye’ll stay thar till old Ugly Ann gits ready to cook yer goose. Oh! ye needn't look cold at me. Idon’t forgit ye, nor ther leetle holes ye perforated in my sides; nor I don’t luy y* overmuch nuther, I reckon.” “ Rither your love or hate amounte to very little, in my estimation, you devil!” Charlie replied. “Oh! you'll see, when ye git sacrificed, me lad. Let me annonnce that ther first act in ther cumin’ progrum will bea leetle blood-lettin’ for pastime.” Then with horrible laughs, the ruffians left the dung on, locking the door securely behind them. (o-'uroy Chorlie was left bound and helpless upon the cot, to reflect upon his approaching fate. He was well aware that he was beyond helping himself now, and that if something extraordinary should not bappen, he would soon be consigned (> the merciless Indian worshipers for torture. By following winding passages and ascending flizhts of stone steps, the principal chamber. of old U-sly Ann's quarters was reached from Charlie’s cell, It was a large cavernous apartment in the he rt of the mountain, with lofty ceilings from which pended stalactites of grotesque shape. Tha floor had been chiseled off to a smoothness of pol- ished marble, and in the center was a raised dais of stone, surmounted by a stone chair, similar to the one on the mountain top. Here Ugly Ann was seated, attired in a flowing * sion, when Quoloro shall smile tenignly down rt igs re his worshi ee Have you the beasts in the pig In readiness oo ates i ly ee robe of bearskin, with the fur side ont. 9nd with a strangely-shaped palm-leaf hat upon ler head. She robably intended to represent an enthroned queen, ut if was rather'an amusing picture, Upon each side of her throne were four stone Posts, witb a bowl chiseled in the top of each, where ~ urned fat fires, which gave a weird illumination to_ the scene; also, on each side of the throne, four savages in hideous war-paint steod guard, with long lances, looking like so many bronzed statues. Otherwise, the great chamber was deserted. ard the least sound cansed a weirdly detonating echo, For a long time Ugly Ann sat in silence, her wil eyes fixed upon space, with a vacant stare. She seemed to be buried in a deep oblivion. At last, however, the muscles in her face began to twitch, and her eyes assumed an expression in which were cunning, malicious intent, and triumph, blended. - “Ha! ha! what a feast for the Sun-God, Quoloro-- what a precious offering to his me And. at the same time, while I am striking for his pleasure, Iam inflicting torture upon my enemiés. » Ho} ho} ‘ho! how much would Judson Wardville rot give to get possession of his children, who have keen uncer ‘ watchful eye since they were mere bebes! Ab! au pee all my gud to have him here, so thar he could see me torture them. .ButI have him not, end earmot well adjourn the sacrifice Already my ver. riors have waited past the usual day, and are grow- ing impatient. Let me see—the boy. Corduroy Cher lie shall go first. Iam eager to torture him, becsuse of his attempt to pregi Then the cripple shell fol- low suit, and next tre Chinaman and the rcad-egent, Deadwood Dick. Ho! ho! he will be my best vic- — tim. and I shall enjoy-his torture, d * Cressly says I shail not have the road-agent’s red-haired wife to torture, and he must be chey for he hath served me faithfully. The 1ed-haire wife of Deadwood Dick shal] not die!” y * As she ceased speaking, the old hog gazed around | her sharply; then seizing a horn which hung at hex — side, she blew a shrill blast—the trumpeter’s call, few moments later there was an onswering — blast in the distance, and then through a brosds erchway in a distant cornercf the room. filed three — abreast, a motley gang of fierce-lcoking red-men horribly bedaubed with paint. and attired inthere — galia of the war-path. They were armed either — with spears or rifles, and presented an imposing ap. _ pearance, ; In the lead was a tall. brawny man, whom, by hig — beard, which sweeps below his mask, the reader —_ have no difficulty in recognizing as Silver — Beard. : Just in his rear, and between bim and the warriors — of the Sun-God, Jem MceTurk and his rough associ- _ ates fill in the line. a And thus the whole band, numbering in the neigh borhood of three-score. marched up and came toa _ halt in front of Ugly Ann’s throne, ; hes As they came to a halt. the hagarose and waved — her hand, and all except ‘Silver Beard dropped upon bended knee and bowed their heads. Se “Silver Beard, I am pleased with the turnout, But where is your cid’, Lieutenant Cressly ?” 3 “] know not, your grace. Fe was not in the as- — sembly-room when yeu signaled, and 1 took no pains ~ to bunt gor him!” was the reply. =a “That is where thou didst wrong. But let that — . Is all in readiness, so that the sacrifice—the glorious offering to Quoloro, may take place on tha morrow ?"’ : ‘ Lee believe so, according to the report of f guards, , “Very well. Atsunrise to-morrow you will hear my call. Then assemble your command and the = prisoners before me here, for the ceremonies, L nota man be absent, for this shalt be a great oc « oi 4 2

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28 4 Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. : ee “Quite ready!” Silver Beard replied, with a little shiver. “ The two cinnamon bears have been excited by the taste of warm blood, and the same with the bloodhounds and the three wolves, which have not Hevn fed to any amount for a week!’’ x “Good! The sport on the morrow shall be exciting. Remember, every man to be present on my call. * You may now retire!” : Silver Beard bowed, and then turned away with- out a word. The kneeling subjects of the Mountain Queen then arose and marched after him, until the council-chamber was again deserted except by the hag and her body-guard. Alas! the morrow had an ill-look for the prisoners in the volcanic retreat. In a cell, several passages distant from that cecu- pied by Corduroy Charlie, Deadwood Dick paced to and fro, with manifest impatience. His brow was ‘clouded, and his hands clinched tightly together, while his lips were compressed pe: Jem McTurk had just passed the door of the dun- eon, and hurled in the unwelcome announcement ; A the morrow was to be the day for the prisoners io die, ~ But it was not this news which caused Deadwood Dick’s emotion, He had faced death a hundred times, and in a score of shapes before; he scarcely gave a thought upon its terrors now. What were gall and wormwood to him now were the thoughts that he was doomed to leave behind him a faithless wife. “ “T swore that she should die, but yet have not kept my oath!” he gritted, fiercely. ‘“ Would that _ God would see fit to punish her faithlessness, ere I - am sent off--it would make my trip pleasanter. Poor little Dick! how thankful I am that he never lived to feel the tainted sting of a mother’s shame and dishonor. He isan angel now!” “Ha! ha! and there is where you will be before long!” cried a mocking voice. ‘You are nearly a saint on earth as it is!’ , Deadwood Dick wheeled about with a smothered curse. : ; Leone Harris stood outside the grated door, smil- ing like a fiendess. ** You!” the imprisoned Prince of thé Road.ex- claimed—‘‘ yor |—faithless, shameless viper |” “ Exactly—I!” the girl-woman replied, triumph- antly—‘‘I who am the means of your unpléasant incarceration, Edward, I learned that you proposed to ‘cs me, and so I took the precaution to cage you “Ourses on youl From a woman you have turned to a she-devil!”” “Perhaps you are right. The devil tempted me, and like mother Eve, I yielded.” - “And you intend to allow these barbarians to butcher me, Leone?” | “Tam powerlegs.to help myself, Ugly Ann, even, - would like me for a victim, but my gracious Cressly prevents her.” |. *‘Leone!’’—and here the road-agent’s voice was _ hoarse and choked—‘ Leone, turn back from this shameful Jife—come back to me! ‘Tis not yet too _ late, when I will open 1ay arms to receive you!” Bs “No, Ned Harris; you ask in vain. I have fallen own a precipice, and have not the strength or in- clination to turn back. You are doomed, aud must - meet your fate without expecting pity from me.” ___ “Pity from you!” Deadwood Dick murmured, as - she turned away—“no! I will mpt expect it, Your heartis turned to stone!” t — In still another cell was confined the Chinaman, Clever Sam. Afterall, it had not benefited him to _ break faith with kis master, Corduroy Charlie, for Sage Ugly Ann had pointed him out as a victim ‘the ruffians forgot his service in their behalf, and ‘poor Samuel was doomed to lie in captivity. eka ye at “fhe, ami pee e le eee He said very little—kept silent, and was moody. He had been allowed a pipe and tobacco, and conse- quently spent most of his time in smoking, About night of this same day of the last narrated occurrence, Clever Sam wes engaged as usual at his ipe, when his ear detected a stealthy footstep com- ing along the passage, and in a moment a brawny form paused in front of the grated door. The Celestial g.ve a violent start, for he recog- nized no less a personage than his former brother- servant, the redoubtable Bad Medicine. “Yah! he! he! hi! hil’? Clever Sam cried, joyfully. “Redee skinee muchee goodee Injun—comee muchee to lettee out Chinee man. Muchee finee redee skinee, allee samee!” ““Wagh!” Bad Medicine replied, tly, as he fingered the fastenings of the door. * Pig-Tail max no good, He like de prairie dog an’ de coyote. He attack his foes at a weak point, but run when de grow strong. He help white dogs steal a 2 e Lily, and Bad Medicine come for his sealp. Ugh! much big skulp, ba! ha!”’ “ Whatee? goodee Injun no takee poor Chinee man > sealpee!’’ Clever Sam yelled, sinking back in horror. “Chinee man den no go back to Chinee.”’ “You go to happy hunting-grounds, you dog of a pale-face!”’ was the grim response; then the fasten- Ings gave way, the door was flung open, and the red-skin sprung into the dungeon, knife in hand. There was a fierce, revengeful fire in his eye, and a grimness in the expression of his features that were terrible. , He sprung upon the cowering traitor, and there was a sharp, deadly struggle; then— But we pass by without giving the sickening de- tails. Enough to say, that soon the Celestial lay upon the floor dead and scalpless, while Bad Medi- cine turned and left the cell with his terrible trophy swung to his velt. He had given his word to Cor- duroy Charlie, and with the result the reader has seen, he has kept it, : CHAPTER XVI. THE SACRIFICE—CONCLUSION. Waite Deadwood Dick and Corduroy Charlie were lenguishing ji their resp ctive prisons, awaiting the sunrise of the morrow, which was to be the signal of their doom, and which was but a few hours away, another scene was-transpiring which it will be neces- sary to chronicle before we merge into the curtain act of our drama of Western life. Into a voleanie cavern of the wonderful mountain we would take the reader. *It is not so large as the council-chamber of the Mountain Queen. but is withal an apartment of consider ble size, Through a crevice at one side leaps a sheet of flame, sufficient to brilliantly illuminate the scene, and at the same time emit a steady heat. AS. Paneer there was but a vein of gas from the bowels of the mountain; but once a spark of fire came in contact, and the flame burst forth never to — be quenched by mortal power. ‘ Tae rocky floor was covered with mats of fur- bearing skins, and a rude couch was upholstered with the same material. The rest of the furniture consisted of a few ill-made chairs and a table. upon which was a decanter of liquor, and a long-tubead Turkish pipe: Seated in a chair by the table, with his feet ele- vated upon the back of a second chair, was Lieuten- ant Cressly. He was occupied in drawing dense clouds of smoke from the pipe, and in watching the woman who was half-reclining upon the rugs, a couple of paces away. She was attired in a Joosely-fitting wrapper, which showed off the shape of her form to advantage, and was none other than Leone, the wife of Deadwood ick, ; Asshe lay there, her attention was divided between — risk

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Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. a@ glass of spirits in one hand and a paper which lay within eyeshot. The lieutenant gazed at her sharply, a half-frown upon his brow. : “Tt. ates to me that you have got more of an eye for that paper than fcr me!’ he growled at last, ving an extra puff to his Pie. '“T cidn’t bring you here to amuse yourself, but to cater to my met. 1don’t know asI am particularly your slave, Lieutenant Cressly.”’ *“ And why not, pray?” ‘And why, pray? I’m inno way bound to you, except that you have chosen to protect me.” *Humph! One would say that your infatuation forme was on the decline since a short month ago.” “Well, pone it is,” was the reply, with a cool laugh, ‘‘I have in a measure grown tired of you, and bave been contemplating a change of base. You are so different from most men. Deadwood Dick was never jealous of me.” “Hang Deadwood Dick! And,you shall not leave me, _I will kill you first!” ‘Ha! ha! let me have a hand in that, Dion Avery!” erieda shrill, peeulidr voice, the sound Of which caused a shudder of horror to creep over the villainous lieutenant, ‘Let me do what slaughter- ing is to be done!” ri And there in {he arched entrance of the room, Lily Madison strode into view, leaning upon her crutches, and at the same time holding a pair of leveled revol- vers in her Sree. Cressly, alias Dion avenes muttered a savage oath wken he beheld the girl; then reached for a revolver in his belt. But it was not there. And Just then the cripple laugheé wildly, as shé hobbled further into the room. ‘Ha! ha! Dion Avery, you have no weapons; you left them in another room. I was watching and saw ou, else I should not have ventured here. You are "bork literally weaponless and in my power. Hal al “Ourses on you, girl! Leave the room, or ’ll—” and the lieutenant arose with a threatening gesture. liut. he did not advance in the face of tne pair of steel tubes that were leveled at his heart. z “ Hold up, you wretch!’’ the cripple said, deliber- ately. ‘‘Don't be rash, but listen to me, They say JT am insane, crazy, mad! Perhaps I am, at times; but { am sane enough now to know that I have come here for a purpose. I escaped from my cell some time ago, since when I have been hiding around watching you—you, Dion Avery, who came to my home in Stockton, and lured a poor cripple girlaway from maiden honor—intimidated her when she was alone and unable to defend herself. Ah! you in- human monster, I never forgot nor forgave you, and Troused my brother to follow you. Iecame toe! I was mad—mad—mad / but still knew that I was coming to avenge my wrongs. At last the hour of my vengeance has come! Ha! ha! Kneel down, “you, wretch, and beg my forgiveness, but that will not suffice; I must have your life!” “Great God! you would notycommit murder, rl?’ Avery gasped, blanching white, and trembling ike an aspen. ; ‘‘No! it is not murder to avenge one’s wron ‘ike mine. Prepare to die, for I am ready to be your executioner. I am a dead shof, thanks to the raining my brother gave me. 17 shall not miss you; nor your other victim, that faithless wife. I know her—Deadwood Dick, her husband, told me of her. She shall die, too. Ha! ha! yes, die as she would have her husband die! You ‘need not beg; ‘tis use- 2% less, for my decision cannot be altered. 1 will count fifty—then, you both die!” - e spoke calmly, yet sternly, as if every word was meant. She began counting aloud, in a slow, deliberate way. i In terror Dion Avery dropped upon bis knees, and began to plead and be. me stood with pale, averted face, and trembled. “Forty-eight, fi riy-nine ! Burry |” There were then five reports within as many soaoness then three figures lay upon the floor— ei eH were Tion Avery, Leone Harris, and poor — adison! oor Lily! “ She had found her vengeance, and ended her own misery with the same deadly instrument which took the lives of the two Les who each had played an unholy part in the great ife Drama. ‘ ¢ _ The morning dawned in the outer world, but with- in the cavernous recesses of the mountain no light of day ever penetrated. Nevertheless Dely Ann was upon her throne at the hour of sunrise, attireé in a flowing robe of furry skins, and looking as savage as some wild beast of prey instead of a human being. “Tis the hour of-my triumph!” she muttered, with a gleeful chuckle, which seemed almost fiend: ish; ‘the time when I can hear my inferiors 1 fe ane pray me to cease my persecutions. Ha! bal I am then the Queen, and have the power. But, ‘tis time! I Sos blow my call, and summon the hosts before me She blew a shrill blast upon the horn, which served her as a call. In answer, a savage entered the council-chamber, and bowed on bended knee before the throne cf the mountain queer. : “Ah! is it you, Benito? Why do youcome alone?” was the eager demanc of the hag. ‘‘ Where are §'1- ver Beard and all the others?” “They will be here soon your majesty!’ was the reply, in English, too clear to come from other than a white mau—which the page was, in disguise. ‘I was sent to announce the! aaa , And, as he spoke, a long procession filed into the chamber; the same as had responded to the queen's call the day previous, with the exception of seven or — eight more savages. and the prisoners, who headed the procession, marching at the’points of spears,in the hands of MeTurk and his gang. ‘ But there were only two prisoners—Corduroy Charlie and Deadwood Dick, the road-agent. “Ha! what means ‘iis? Ugly Ann demanded, fiercely, as_she glanced upon each face in the crowd, ‘You, Silver Peard? where is your Aide, again, and the red-haired fit and the eripple, and the Chinaman? Where? Speak!” ‘ “They’re all four dead, your majesty!’ “What! dare you tell me this—all dead? By heaven! explain before I—’ “Be calm, queen and you shali know all. Lien- — tenant Cressly we just found in his section of the caverns, lying upon the floor—dead: as was his red. haired companion and the cones girl. All three bad been shot through the heart.” + “Oh, heaven!” Corduroy Charlie groaned, stag- gering back, while tears started from his eyes, “My poor sister dead, and in this den! Would to God I'd never seen this country at all!” ~ “Don’t take it bard, partner!’ Deadwood Dick el huskily, “ for she is now out of “her misery. I, too, have Icst one by this blow, but, God forgive — me, I mourn not her loss.” =e “Qurses on the luck! what of the Chinaman, Sil- ver Beard?” Ugly Ann cried. . “We found him dead and scalpless, too, in his cell. Doubtless it was all the work of the crazy cripple, as she was armed, aad at liberty. After — Behe

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30 te Sed vengeance she probably ended her life by suicide," : ‘But, how did she escape from the cavern?” ‘That I am unable to tell you. The door was found still fastened. There must be some other se- eret, as in the dungeon where Corduroy Charlie was confined.” “Ay! so there must!” Ugly Ann eS ae fiercely. “Ir must. be looked to later; but, now, other business demands our attention. The sacrifice to Quoloro must take place immediately. Let Cordu- roy Charlie first be led forward.” he order was obeyed, and the young Bravo was lel in front of the mountain hag, who regarded him with a keen, scrutinizing glance. * Young man, you have been chosen as a victim of sacrifice to Quoloro, the great Sun-God. Around me you behold his worshipers, whose numbers are mul- tiplying each year. ney demand that a life each quarter be sacrificed to their supreme king, in pay- ment for all the past. favors he has shown them. So largely has he favored them of late, that I have resolved to sacrifice as many victims as possible. Therefore, you shall go first. You and your crip- ple sister have ever been in under my watchful eye, ripening for this sacrifice. I would not have you longer left in doubt concerning your birth—you were the children of Judson and Madge Wardville. Your own father it was whom you rescued from me, a few nights since!” “a z ** Great Heaven! can this be true? You are lying to me, woman!” Corduroy Charlie cried. “Hal hal no, lam not lying; but you shall never see your father. Itis my revenge upon him. Ha! ha! sweet revenge. Years ago, when I cast my love and wealth at his feet, he refused me—refu me, as if I were some. scorpion, instead of a reigning belle. After that,I lived only for revenge, I stole away his babes when-he was married three years.- and he never saw them again. I early indentured you to Joe! Madison, a wealthy trapper, with whom you remained until his death. And all this while I have been treasuring up revenge. Ha! ha! ha! “But, I must not tarry for narration of the past. The delights of this torture-hour are too great to be t aside. Young man, here is your programme: irst, you shall bleed half an ounce of crimson from each arm, and then, blindfolded, you will be cast _ into a den of savage beasts, among which will be un- - fed bears, wolves, and bloodhounds. Here you will be ee the freedom of your limbs, and a knife to dsfend yourself with. Here you will be left for two hours; then a guard will be sent to gather up your bones, which will be burned before this throne, and _ the ashes used for scrubbing purposes. Silver Beard! you will step forward and eae your part!” ». A dreadful silence pervaded the cavern! The old hag wore a gloating expression of features. Charlie Madison stood in the vise-like grasp of half a score of painted savages, his face pale, but a flash of brave determination in his eyes. No matter how great the pain, he was resolved not - to betray his fear, if any should arise. _ His arms were held out partly, and bared to the shoulder. Silver Beard then stepped forward, and with a hand which trembled, punctured the skin above the elbow in each arm, with a razor-pointed knife. Im- “mediately the crimson began to flow in little streams, and smail glass cups were held to catch the blood. _ At first, a shudder and a sickening sensation went e id z Charlie, but he bit his’ lips fiercely and kept ‘it off. It took, but a few seconds: to fill the tiny vessels; then salt was forced into the punctures to prevent ‘the flow of blood. The young Bravo was a trifle ‘whiter and somewhat dizzy as this part of his torture fen concluded, but he did not betray much emo- ion. tS “Ha! ha! ‘You stood your part of the torture so ‘ar, well!’’ Ugly Ann, ejaculated, with ill-concealed * Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravc. ~— disappointment, that she had not heen able to catch @ groan oreven asound. “But wait until you are cast into the den—that will test your iron nerve. Away with him, Silver Beard, and feed him to the brutes; then come quickly back, for there is other work for you to do.”” z The prime minister obeyed, with a courteous bow, by heading the savages who bore Corduroy Charlie out of the council-chamber. Through long, dank passages they~"-> °. then up flight after flight of stone steps, ke 2 of solid rock, until finally they emerged in } an temple on the mountain top. From here they crossed toward the tu,,oned stone wall which Charlie had noticed when he first had been brought to the volcanic prison. stone-steps they ascended to the top of this wall, which was wide enough to admit of three standing abreast. Then it was that Charlie knew what chances he had for life. Below him lay a pit, quarried out to the depth of thirty feet, with the smooth, unscalable wall all around it, making the pit a prison from which there was no possible chance of escape. Just within the pit were stout pens, in which were contained two cinnamon bears, a pair of wolves and a pair of bloodhounds, all of which seemed to give a delighted howl as they beheld their victim come | upon the parapet. “Let loose the antinals!” Silver Beard command- ed, “and then retire to your queen; I will follow!” Then the doors of the kennel-pens were lifted b; means of an arrangement of ropes, and the animals plunged out into the arena of the pit. Immediately a wide sash was wound repeated around Charlie’s face, and tied behind his head; then he was seized and dropped into the pit, and a knife hurled after him. c He struck the ground with a foree that almost stunned him, but he quickly recovered himself, and reaching into his bootleg, he drew his own trusty. knife. He heard a series of low, wrangling cries, and a patter of feet, and knew that the animals were rushing toward him. In a moment they would be on his person, tearing at bis flesh. He shuddered at the thought, and inserting the blade of his knife alongside his face he cut away the bandage with a powerful stroke, and it dropped to the ground, Just in time! A glance discovered a hue cinna mon rushing down almost upon him, followed by the snarling wolves ard yelping hounds. With a cry, he leaped aside, and ran swiftly to the opposite side of the pit. The bear followed with a savage growl. Charlie paused a moment, and glanced toward the heavens. He gave a sigh of relief at one thing. N ae of ula persecutors were in sight to mock at him in his peril. - : The bear and his companions were approaching closer—something must done. Char ie was wel) satisfied that he could not kill the bear with his small revolver, and therefore his knife must do the work. Nearer came the huge brute, reared upon its hind legs, its mouth open and tongue lolling out, and for- ward paws extended. Then Charlie sprung asi‘e quickly, and struck the bear a terrible blow with the knife in the back of the neck. The following instant, however, he was fiercely set upon by the wolves and bloodhounds, - They leaped upon him and bit him, and clawed open his clothing and flesh furiously. The blood began to spurt in a score of places, and though he fought with desperate determination, he began to see that his hopes were futile. He grew faint and weak and dizzy—he lost the power of sight—his already weakened arms refused longer to do service—he staggered and fell—there was a vague Pence of wild sounds in his ears then he a : In the cavernous chamber of Ugly Ann. other — events were transpiring which we must chroiicle.

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Wagerly the old hag waited for the return of Sil- ver Beard with the warriors, for she was hoping to extract shrieks and groans from Desdwoo ick, when he came to lose his sacrificial blood. But she krew not the young man as well as the world of the” Biack Hills country knew him; he had lost blood on more than one occasion without wincing—he had plenty more to spare. After a lapse of ten minutes the Prime Minister returned with his guard. “Ha! Silver Beard, did you cast the victim into the den?” the hag demanded, with fierce eagerness, “Yes, your core ge le “Good! ere this, his bones are stripped of their flesh. Bring forward the next victim.’ Deadwood Dick was led forward, but there was no trace of fear, or hesitation upon his calm, cynical countenance, as he faced his torturers, At a motion from Ugly Ann his arms were bared and punctured by the sharp knife of Silver Beard, until a blood began to flow into the tiny glass re- raped len. : ot a muscle in the road-agent’s composition moved to betray that he was experiencing pain, He stood like a statue, a grim, half-sarcastic expression upon his face, that worked upon the passions of gly Ann as oil does upon a bed of live coals. ‘* Halt! this tutchery has gone far enough. Surren- der, every dog, or you dig as only dogs are fx to die !” Clear and distinct the words echoed through the council-chamber in detonating reverberations, The savages started and glared about in alarm— Ugly Ann rose upon her tbrone with a frenzied curse. : * Great conquorious ham-bone thet bu’sted ther barricades uv old Joner! surrender, ye red hellions, or we'll di combobberate yer yearthly views 0’ ther great hereafter!” “Yaw! yaw! surrender, or ve shoot you ober mit our guns, so helb me! Shimminy gracious unt my vife Katrina! vata crowd i h dis!” Tn an instant all was confusion—there were fierce yells from Usly Ann and her savages—roaring re- ports and flashes of firearms—a séruggle, a battle in the smoke that enveloped the room in a cloud. Then came a silence, which was at length broken, as the smoke rose above the scene. “Hurra! Great boreal destructive ham-bone thet war ther takin’ off eppydemic uv old Joner! We've killed every durned Salt, red niggers, ther white niggers, an’ all—fac’, by ious! Everywhar hes a wave o’ teetotal annihilation sweept like ther ran- tankerous simoon 0’ Sarah's Deserts. Cum for’a’d, b’yees, an’ view ther ’reck,” “Ig the devil-woman dead?” cried Judson Ward ville, pushing forward among a crowd of masked men who swarmed in the rear of Old Avalanche, “Yas, deader than ary old spider thet an elerfant st on, Thar’s nary a thing but maccademized stiffs layin’ all around us—fac’. by gracious!” __ ‘Yes! there is one who isn’t dead!”’ cried a ring- ing voice; and up from among the‘dead hoties that were strewn around rose aform, ‘t Deadwood Dick still lives!” : A cheer went up from three-score of throats, a welcome to the chief from his followers. who had come to his rescue, and, in company with Judson Wardville’s party, had found an entrance to the ™m maious mountain honeycomb from the moun- _ tain-side. “But my son—Corduroy Charlie—where is he?’ Wardville cried, rushing about among the bodies, | and searching for the face he had grown to love. “ Where is he?” “ Alas! the young man you name has been con- signed to the beast-pit, sir!’ Deadwood Dick re- per sadly. ‘ You arrived a little too late to save m, ; ** But others were not too late to save him. gentie- men!” cried a voice. and Lena Vernon and Bad Med- icine entered the cavern, bearing between them the 4 Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo. Ps aed form of Corduroy Charlie. ‘ Cheer up Mr, Wardville, for your son still lives!’’ There was a cheer then in good earnest, and ready hands set’ to work in dressing the wounds and restoring Corduroy Charlie back to conscious- i t ess, ‘** Buster” consented to relate how she had joined with the noble Indian, Bad Medicine, in his search for his young master—how they had reached the mountain-top and slain the guards of the temple; then exchanged places with them, while Bad Medi. cine had entered the caverns to kill Clever Sam— how they had¢seen Corduroy Charlie cast into the it, and how they had at the last moment sueceeded in rescuing him from being torn to pieces, by shoot- ing the animals. and much more, which space forbids us to re- late, Corduroy Charlie, feoure torn and la@erated in nearly every ag of his body, except his face. was not fatally injured, and was soon recovered seen to be reunited to his long-lost father, and to thank and receive the congratulations from all his friends. }ut he was very weak and sore, and it was determined by all to remain a few days in the moun- tain caverns. : All the bodies were removed to another section, where they were left in their final tomb, among them being the hag. Ugly Ann, Silver Beard (whom Judson Wardville recognized as her own brother), Jem MeTurk, Monk Morgan, and his associates. Later the bodies of poor Lily Madison. the unfaith- ful Leone Harris, and Dion Avery, alias Vernon, were brought into the council-chamber, and a solemn and impressive funeral service offered over the remains by Deadwood Dick, who was capable of turning a ready band to most cnet hcl : Then, the bodies were laid away, for their final rest in the dungeons that had lately contained the prisoners of sacrifice. é Later stiJl they all returned to Quartz City, where Corduroy Charlie was presented to his new-fcun mother, and there was a joyful reunion, Old Ugly Ann’s gold had been fete»ed from the cavern, and all voted that it was rightly Charlie’s. Avalanche, Pretzel Pete, Leona Vernon and Dead- — wood Dick (disguised), were all present at the re — union, which was a joyous one, although the recent losses ‘by death to five of the party, prevented any — jollity; itwas more of a scene of congratulation to _ the parents, who fervently thanked ‘that they — were |e Sua: to be restored to even one of their — lost children. 25 After bidding them all his best wishes for the — future, Deadwood Dick took hig departure. % A little yet in closing, and I am through. 3 The Wardvilles rre yet in the Black Hillscountry, — but in a section where the pioneer is fast settling aud — improving, what will some day be a charming coun- try of homes. Here the father and son are negotiat- ing for a tract, which they mean to make as beautiful as any home can be made by @ liberal expenditure of wealth. s Lena Vernon is with them, and at no distant day there will probably be a Mrs. Charlie Wardyille. Bad Medicine still lives with Charlie, whom he way. 3 ea seems to love in his wild, untutored Pretzel Pete is in ours City. ‘2 Old Avalanche and his eccentric goat may be found in ’most any excitement where “ varmints require annihilatin’.” ee. Of Deadwood Dick I have nodataathand. Hehas — disappeared from the scenes of his late operations. — and perhans vetired from Western life altogeti ° 5 THE END, o 7

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M. J. IVERS & 00,8 PUBLICATIONS. THE SOUTH FIFTH AVENUE ' POKER CLUB. 2 AN DSO. TL SA ae CONTENTS: Toot Wanted to Divide the “‘Jacker.” |The Rev. Mr, Thankful Smith Has a 'A Blue Chip Waterloo. Brush with Mr. Tooter Williams, “Poot, Yo’ Done Yo’se’f Proud.” Mr, Williams Turns Informer. __ Tooter ‘Williams’s Game. Tooter Williams’s Cigar, Au Exciting Debate Growing Out of aj An Executive Session of the South Fifth Well-Advised Kick on a Member's Avenue Poker Club, _* Part. Satisfactory Collateral, Mr. Tooter Williams Redeems His I O U’s | He Was a Pirate King. in an Original Manner. Only a Business Man’s Game, Suckers Can’t Poke.” ‘That Hand is Good; Take the Pot,” _. Mr. Tooter Williams in Trouble. A Large Hand, Yooter Williams Resigns. A Good One for Goodwin, © ‘ ef fee PRICE 25 CENTS BY MAIL. POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN. : ae M. J. IVERS & CO., PUBLISHERS, 379 LEARL STREET, NEW YORK eee Seen ea: ri a oek Neder le

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Vest Pocket Size. _ “YIDDISH”? YARNS.—A Collection of Hebrew Jokes, Stories, etc. GENTS’ LETTER WRITER.—A Perfect Guide to all kinds of Correspondence. FAMILY PHYSICIAN.—Family Diseases and Their Treatment; Rules of* Health, etc. BOOK OF DREAMS.—Their Romance and Mystery, with a Complete Interpretation Dictionary. HOUSEWIFE’S MANUAL.—How to Keep House; How to Dye, Cleanse, etc. VAUDEVILLE JOKER.—Best Jokes by Eminent Vau- 3 deville Artists. BOOK OF ETIQUETTE.—Society, Visits, Introduc- , tions, Dress, Balls, etc. __ FORTUNE TELLER.—Fortune Telling by Cards, Tea ; or Coffee Grounds, Eggs; Palmistry, ete. BOOK OF 100 GAMES.—One Hundred Games for . Social Parties and Home Amusements. COOK BOOK.—Economical, Practical, Excellent. LADIES’ LETTER -WRITER.—How to Write; When to Write; What to Write> 1 Dandy Rill’s Doom. By Oll Coomes. By A. W. Aiken. 4 Lillie, the Reckless Rider. By Stoddard. 5 Old Grizzly in the Rockies. By Ingraham. 6 Deadwood Dick asa Boy. By E. L. Wheeler. 7 Wild Bill. By Ingraham. 8 The Prairie Ranch. iy J. E. Badger. 9 Roving Joe. By A. H. Post. 10 exas Jack. By Ingraham. ~ 11 Charley Skylark, the Sport. By H. B. Stoddard. 12 Brimstone Bill’s Booty. By J. E. Badger, Jr. ~ 13 Roving Ben. By J. J. Marshall. 14 The Ticket-of-Leave’s Trick. By J. E. Badger, Jr. {5 Wide-Awake George. By E. Willett. 16 Wide-Awake Ned. By B. Ringgold. 17 Peter, the Dandy Greenhorn. By Noah Nuff. 18 Adrift on the Prairie. By Oll Coomes. 19 Joe, the Rover Sport. By A. H. Post. 20 Giant Pete and his Pards. By Harbaugh. 21 Yellow Hair. By Ingraham. 22 The Snow-Treil. By Harbaugh. 23 Old Grizzly Adams. By Dr. Powell. 24 Woods and Waters. By Whittaker. 25 A Rolling Stone. By W.R. Eyster. 26 Red River Rovers. By ©. D. Clark. 27 Buckskin Sam's Wild Ride. By Ingraham. 28 The Sword Prince. By F. Whittaker. 28 Snow-Shoe Tom. By T. C, Harbaugh. 30 Paul De Lacy. By C. D. Clark, 31 Round the Camp-Fire. By J. E. Badger, Jr. _ °32 Fancy Frank's Drop. By Ingraham. 33 ‘The Boy Crusader. By Capt. F, Whittaker. 3 Kit Carson, 64 Pages. By Mail, Postpaid, 12c. per Copy. BEST LINE OF HAND BOOKS PUBLISHED. The above books are bound in handsomely Price by mail, postpaid, 12 cents per copy. M. J. IVERS & CO., Publishers, 379 Pearl Street, New York City. BEADLE’S BOYS’ PRICE '5 CENTS PER COPY. Smart ToASts FOR THE SMART SBT. Sewed Book. Up-to-Date, RECIPE BOOK.—For the Parlor, Nursery, Sick-room, Toilet, Kitchen, Larder, ete. BOOK OF BEAUTY.—Beauty of sForm, Color, Head, Hair, Complexion, Skin, ef@, with chapters ou Perfumes, Cosmetics, ete. > . BOOK OF VERSES.—Comprising Rhymes, Lines, and Mottoes for Lovers and Friends. THE LOVERS’ CASKET.—A Treatise on and Guide _ to Friendship, Love, Courtship, and Marriage. “GERMAN” JOKER.—“ Dutch” Jokes and ‘ Gags” by best ‘“‘ Dutch” Teams on the Stage. “ HAYSEED * JOKER.—The Doings of “Our Country Jousins ” in a Humorous Way. “TRAMP” JOKER.—Good ‘‘ Handouts” in, this Book for Professional and Amateur Entertainers. “COON” YARNS.—Best Jokes Relating to Our“ Dark- er-Skinned Brothers.” “TRISH” Joker No. 1.—The Wittiness and Whimsicali- ties of “ Pat’ at His Best. “VARIETY * JOKER.—Good Things from all the Na+ tionalities: ‘* Pat,” ‘Alphonse,’ “‘ Hans,” ‘* Jona- than,” “* Moses,” and ‘‘ Ebenezer.” illustrated lithographed covers. LIBRARY. $4 The Chase of the Great White Stag. By ©. D. Clark, 35 Old Tar Knuckle. By Rover Starbuck. 36 The Dashing Dragoon. By F. Whittaker. 87 Night-Hawk George. By Ingraham. 88 The Boy Exiles of Siberia. By '’. C. Harbaugh. 39 [The Young Bear Flunters. By Morris Redwing, 40 (New York Bill, the Dodger. By Edward Willett. 41 The Settler’s Son. By Edward §. Ellis. 42 Walt Ferguson’s Cruise. By C. D. Clark, 43 Rifle and Revolver. By F. Whittaker. 44 The Lost Boy Whalers. By 'T. C. Harbaugt. 45 Bronco Billy. By Ingraham. 46 Dick, the Stowaway. By Charles Morris. 47 The Colorado Boys. By J. E. Badger, Jr. 48 The Pampas Hunters, By T. C. Harbaugh, 49 Nebraska Charlie. By Ingraham. 650 Jack, Harry, and Tom. By F. Whittaker, 51 ‘om Stone, the Old Sea Dog. By C. D. Clark, 52 The Boy Detectives. By T. C. Harbaugh. 53 Harry. the Country Boy, in New York. Morris. 54 California Joe. By Ingraham. 55 Tip Tressel, the Flatboat Boy. By Edward Willett. 56 The Spow Hunters. By Harry De Forrest. 57 Harry Somers, the Magician. By 8. W. Pearce. 58 Captain Jack in Rocky Roost. By Ingraham. 59 Tim, the Mule Bov of the Mines. By Charles Morris, 60 The Young Trail Hunters. By ‘T. C. Harbaugh. 61 The Tiger Hunters. By J. E. Badger, Jr. 62 Doctor Carver, the Champion Shot. By Ingraham. 63 Black Horse Bill, the Bandit Wrecker. By Roger Starbuck. 64 Young Dick Talbot. By A. W. Aiken, By Charles

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THE Deadwood Dick e Library e axtracts from the New York Evening Sun. TWO REMARKABLE in only one sense of the word can it be regarded as a aovel statement when the fact is here recorded that litera- jure has given many heroes to the world, and perhaps more than one reader will have to think a moment over this remark before the subtle delicacy of its genial wit rikes home, But it is most essentially a half dime novel statement bhat will be news to many when it is added that litera- éure, if traced from the dimly distant days when Adam was a mere child down to the present day, would show jout few heroes that in the eyes of boyhood would be sven judged worthy of comparison with the two greatest ‘weroes known to American literature, or, to promptly re- veal them, Deadwood Dick and Deadwood Dick, Jr. * * * The modern heroes of fiction for young America, rho are now as countless as the sands of the sea, and of whom the Deadwood Dicks are much the most important * * * it is but natural that their * * * should bear away the palm of popularity, and suchas * * * be left ¢ar behind in the race, * It can be easily believed, therefore, that the two Dicks so firmly engrafted on the tree of popular literature boys and young men, that their position is assured - and that they stand to-day head and shoulders ‘ HANDSOME TRL-COLORED COVERS 82 Pages. Issued Every Wednesday. Price 5 Cents. Buy One and You Will Buy the Rest i HEROES, above all rivals in the eyes of the public for which they have lived, and for which one of them has died. American boyhood, and that is a tremendous factor in the land, now knows Deadwood Dick, Jr., a,good beal bet: ter than it knows its catechism, and millions of young minds absorb the thrilling incidents of his career in hie everlasting warfare against crime and his never-ending solving of impenetrable mysteries. Millions of boys follow his stealthy footsteps as he tracks his vicious victims to their undoing, and then, when the victims are thoroughly undone, the millions walt hungrily for the next volume, which on every Wednesday appears with the certainty of the Wednesday itself, and a new set oe ONT sd thrills go thrilling away from Maine to Call ‘ornia, There are the volumes each so crowded witb thrills and heart-tugs that it were madness to hope to do justice to them collectively and rank injustice to discriminate be » tween them, To abandon the idea of giving a few extracts causes in finite pain, but if once a start were made in that direc tion, it would be cruel to The Hvening Sun's readers to stop, and it is therefore better not to relate one single adventure. Suffice it to say that the stories are clean and well written. DEADWOOD DICK LIBRARY. 4 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road 2 The Double Daggers; or, Deadwood Dick’s Defiance 8 The Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures 4 Buffalo Ben, Prince of the Pistol % Wid Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval 8 Death-Face, the Detective ¥ The Phautom Miner; or, Deadwood Diek’s Bonanza 8 Old Avalanche, the Great Annihilator; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand ® Bob Woolf, the Border Ruffian #0 Omaha Oll, the Masked Terror; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger 73 Jim Bludgoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix; or, Through to Death ® Deadwood Dick’s Eales; or, The Pards of Flood Bar 18 Buckhorn Bill; or, Tne Red Rifle Team 14 Gold Rifle, the abe ete ad 15 Deadwood Dick on Deck: or, Calamity Jane 46 Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo hid reat ee Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight of the Gulch {8 Idy], the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand i9 Photograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance 90 Watch-Eye, the Shadow 1 Deadwood Dick’s Device; or, The Sign of th Double Cross # Canada Chet, the Counterfeiter Chief %8 Deadwood: Dick in Leadville; or, A Strange Stroke for Liberty #4 Deadwood Dick as Detective %5 Gilt-ldge Dick 26 Bonanza Bill, the Man-Tracker; or, The Secret Twelve 87 Chip, the Girl Sport 8 Jack Hoyle’s Lead; or, The Road to Fortune 89 Boss Bob, the King of Bootblacks 90 ade Ra Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gorgon’s ule #1 Blonde Bill; or. Deadwood Dick’s Home Base @#® Solid Sam the Boy Road-Agent 33 Tony Fox, the Ferret; or, Boss Bob’s Boss Job 84 A Game of Gold; or, Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike 85 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party 36 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective 87 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or. ‘he Scamps of the Sierrag 88 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo 89 Deadwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Lasé Adventure 40 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Roag 41 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hills Jezebel 42 The Arab Detective; or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp 43 The Ventriloquist Detective. A Romance of Rogueg 44 terete Josh Grim; or, The Young Gladiator's ame 45 The Frontier Detective; or, Sierra Sam’s Scheme 46 The Jimtown Spert; or, Gypsy Jack in Colorado 4¥ The Miner Sport; or, Sugar-Coated Sam's Claim 48 Dick Drew, the Miner’s Son; or, Apollo Bill, the Road-Agent 49 Sierra Sam, the Detective 50 Sierra Sam’s Double; or, The Three Female Detect- ives 51 met seule Sentence; or, Little Luck at Rough anc 52 The Girl Sport; or, Jumbo Joe’s Disguise 53 Denver Doll’s Device; or, The Detective Queen 54 Denver Doll as Detective 55 Denver Doll’s Partner; or, Big Buckskin the Sport 56 Denver Doll’s Mine; or, Little Bill’s Big Loss 57 Deadwood Dick Trapped 58 Buck Hawk, Detective; or, The Messenger Boy's Fortune 59 Deadwood Dick’s Disguise; or, Wild Walt, the Spor? 60 Dumb Dick’s Pard; or, Eliza Jane, the Gold Miner 61 Deadwood Dick’s Mission 62 Spotter Fritz; or, The Store-Detective’s Deco: 63 The Detective Road-Agent; or, The Miners of Sassa: fras City 64 Colorado Charlie’s Detective Dash; or, Tze Cattle Kings M. J. IVERS & CO., Publishers (James Sullivan, Proprietor), 379 Pearl Street, NEW YORK.

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Copyright 1879-1885, by Beadle & Adams. Entered at Post Office, New York, N. Y., a3 second class matter. Mar. 15, 1899, THE ARTHUR WESTBROOK CO, No. 16 ‘ Cleveland, Ohio Vol. Il BY EDWARr L, WHEELER, SS (Ms MZ EAP THEN CHARLIZ SPRUNG “-=DE QUICKLY, AND STRUCK THE BEAR 4 TERRIBLE BLOW WITH THE ENIFE IN THE BACK OF THE NECE.

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BEADLE’S FRONTIER SERIES SONI MP oTR eaters PES oon . Davy Crockett’s {5c. Per Copy. The Shawnee’s Foe. The Young Mountaineer, Wild Jim. . Hawk-Bye, the Hunter. » an The Boy Guide. War Tiger of the Modocs The Red Modocs, Iron Hand. . Shadow Bill, the Scout. ‘Wapawkaneta, or the Rangers of the Oneida. Boy Hunter. : .» The Worest Avenger. Old Jack’s Frontier Cabin. On the Deep. . Sharp Snout. . The Mountain Demon. + Wild Tom of Wyoming. . The Brave Boy Hunters of Kentucky. . The Fearless Ranger. . The Haunted Trapper. Madman of the Colorado. . The Panther Demon. . Slashaway, the Fearless, . Pine Tree Jack. . Indian Jim. Navajo Nick. The Tuscarora’s Vow. 28. Deadwood Dick, Jr. BEADLE’S FRONTIER SERIES are always in print and for sale by all Newsdealers; or will be sent pontpand to any address: » Deadwood Dick’s A New York Boy Among the Indians. Big Deal. . Hank, the Guide. » Deadwood Dick’s Dozen, . Squatty Dick. . The Hunter’s Secret. . The Woman Trapper. . Khe Chief of the Miami, . Gunpowder Jim. . Mad Anthony’s Captain. The Ranger Boy’s Career, . Old Nick of the Swamp. . The Shadow Scout. . Lantern-Jawed Bob. . The Masked Hunter, . Brimstone Jake. . The Irish Hanter. . Dave Bunker, . The Shawnee Witch. . Big Brave. Spider-Legs. Single copies, 15c. std WESTBROOK C0. 50. BG Harry Hardskull. Madmen of the Oconto. } 52. Slim Jim, 53. 5. Trapper Joe. .» The . Sear-Cheek, Tiger-Eye. 54. The Red Star of the. Seminoles. { Indian Queen’s Revenge. Eagle-Eyed Zeke, the Wild Half-Breed. Red Men of the Woods. . Tuscaloosg Sam. . The Bully of the Woods. The Trapper’s Bride. Red Rattlesnake, The Pawnee, The Scout of Tippecanoe Old Kit, The Scout. . The Boy Scouts. Hiding Tom. Roving Dick, Hunter, Hickory Jack. Mad Mike. . Snake-Eye. Big-Hearted Joe. The Blazing Arrow. The Hunter Scouts, . The Seout of Long Island. . Turkey-Foot. The Death Rangers. Bullet Head, 9. The Indian Spirit. . The Twin Trappers. . Lightfoot the Scout. Grim Dick. . The Wooden-Legged Spy. . The Silent Trapper. . Ugly Ike. . Fire Cloud. . Hank Jasper, The Seout of the Sciota. . Black Samson. j . Billy Bowlegs. ; . The Bloody Footprint. . Marksman the Hunter. . The Demon Cruiser. ~Hunters and Redskins, 5, Panther Jack. . Old Zeke. * . The Panther Paleface. . The Scout of the St. Lawrence: Bloody Brook 00, Long Bob of Kentucky. . CLEVELAND, OHIG Re Oe fe ee ee ee eee LS ee Te Se | | | ; | |

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: Deadwood Dick : @ Library e LATEST AND BEST. HANDSOME TRI-GOLORED COVERS, 82 Pages. Bay One and You Will Buy the Rest} For Sample Cover See Other Vide. DEADWOOD DICK LIBRARY. 1 Deadwood Dick, the Prince of the Road The Double Daggers; or, Deadwood Dick's Deflance 3 The Buffalo Demon; or, The Border Vultures 4 Buffalo Ben, Prince of the Pistol 5 Wild Ivan, the Boy Claude Duval 6 Death-Face, the Detective 7 The Phantom Miner; or, Deadwood Dick’s Bonanza 8 Old Avalanche, the Great Annihilator; or, Wild Edna, the Girl Brigand 9 Bob Woolf, the Border Ruffian 10 Omaha Oll, the Masked Terror; or, Deadwood Dick in Danger 11 Jim Bludsoe, Jr., the Boy Phenix; or, Through to Death ‘ 12 a Dick’s ‘Eagles; or, The Pards of Flood ar 13 Buckhorn Bill; or, The Red Rifle Team 14 Gold Rifle, the isha Geo eae 15 Deadwood Dick on Deck; or, Calamity Jane 16 Corduroy Charlie, the Boy Bravo 17 ee Rob; or, Nugget Ned, the Knight cf the ule’ 8 Idyl, the Girl Miner; or, Rosebud Rob on Hand 19 Photograph Phil; or, Rosebud Rob’s Reappearance 20 Watch-Eye, the Shadow rie 21 cee Dick’s Device, or, The Sign of the Double ross 22 Canada Chet, the Counterfeiter Chief 23 Deadwood Dick in Leadville; or, A Strange Stroke for Liberty 244 Deadwood Dick as Detective 25 Gilt-ldged Dick 26 Bonanza Bill, the Man-Tracker ; or, The Secret Twelve 27 Chip, the Girl Sport 28 Jack Hoyle’s Lead; or, The Road to Fortune 29 Boss Bob, the King of Bootblacks 30 Deadwood Dick’s Double; or, The Ghost of Gorgon's Gulch 31 Blonde Bill; or, Deadwood Dick’s Home Base 32 Solid Sam, the Boy Road-Agent 83 Tony Fox, the Ferret; or, Boss Bob’s Boss Job 34 A Game of Gold; or, Deadwood Dick’s Big Strike 85 Deadwood Dick of Deadwood; or, The Picked Party 86 New York Nell, the Boy-Girl Detective 87 Nobby Nick of Nevada; or, The Scamps of the Sierras 88 Wild Frank, the Buckskin Bravo 89 Deadwood Dick’s Doom; or, Calamity Jane’s Last Adventure 40 Deadwood Dick’s Dream; or, The Rivals of the Road 41 Deadwood Dick’s Ward; or, The Black Hills Jezebel 42 The Arab Detective; or, Snoozer, the Boy Sharp 43 The Ventriloquist Detective. A Romance of Rogues 44 Sr Josh Grim; or, The Young Gladiator’s j ame 45 The Frontier Detective; or, Sierra Sam's Scheme 46 The Jimtown Sport; or, Gypsy Jack in Colorado 47 The Miner Sport; or, Sugar-Coated Sam‘s Claim 48 Dick Drew, the Miner’s Son; or, Apollo Bill, the Road-Agent 49 Sierra Sam, the Detective 50 Sierra Sam’s Double; or, The Three Female Detect ives 51 see a Sentence; or, Little Luck at Rough anc 52 The Girl Sport; or, Jumbo Joe’s Disguise 53 Denver Doll’s Device; or, The Detective Queen 54 Denver Doll as Detective 55 Denver Doll's Partner; or, Big Buckskin the Sport 56 Denver Doll’s Mine; or, Little Bill’s Big Loss 57 Deadwood Dick Trapped 58 Buck Hawk, Detective; or, The Messenger Boy's Fortune 59 Deadwood Dick’s Disguise; or, Wild Walt, the Sport 60 Dumb Dick’s Pard: or, Eliza Jane, the Gold Miner 61 Deadwood Dick’s Mission 62 Spotter Fritz; or, The Store-Detective’s Decoy 63 The Detective Road-Agent; or, The Miners of Sassa- fras a 64 Corea arlie’s Detective Dash; or, The Cattle ings