Fame And Fortune Weekly (no. 97) (1907 08 09)

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wl IRST IN THE FIELD; , DOING BUSINESS | FOR R HIMSELF. Bob suddenly grabbed Max Fowler and exclaimed: ‘Now, then, twenty-thres for you! one, two, three!” The third step landed Fowler on the threshold of the shop, and a push completed his ignominious exit,

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Fameand Fortune Weekly Issued Weekly—By Subscription $2.50 per year. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1907, in the Fe og of the Librarian of Congress, Washington, D. C., by Frank Tousey, Publisher, 24 Union Square, New Yor. No.9. ; NEW YORK, AUGUST 9, 1907. PRICE 5 CENTS. FIRST IN THE FIELD OR, _ DOING BUSINESS FOR HIMSELF By A SELF-MADE MAN Bestia ey Be tg CHAPTER 25 _} "THE BOOM AT RIVERDALE. “Ts that so?” asked Joe, in some surprise. “Why! 4) “Because the fellow who is first in the field is the one who stands the best chance of getting ahead.” ““There’s something in that, PU admit.” “Of course there is. But what’s the use of talking? 1 haven’t got any capital, so there’s no use of my ee of going into business for myself.” : “What kind of business would you like to go into?” “I’ve often thought that I'd like to start a stationery and periodical store, with a soda water attachment, and candy and cigars for a side line.” ie ; “That's a good business, if you can get trade pep to keep the ball rolling.” “Sure it is. Charley Brown, on Main eed has. dot such a shop, you know, and he tells me that he’s nein fine, though he’s got several competitors.” ; “Well, "Westgate is a live town, and there are Literal thousand people here to draw upon. Now, Riverdale is only an obscure village, and it will take some years before ie it gets within hailing distance of this burg.” “Oh, I don’t know. When one of our Western village takes on a boom, such as Riverdale seems to be started 0 it doesn’t take long for it to become) a piace: of some m-" of that, old man,” repliéd Joe, “for I wouldn’t portance.” ; ra way. We've been chums ever since| Joe didn’t take the same anthasiastte view of the s 8 hijeck Pd feel lost without you.” | | that, Bob sayy Md he was ‘baalb on different lines from s ow that I’m through school, | had any capital a “Say, Joe,” said Bob Channing, looking up from the _ copy of the Westgate semi-weekly “Times” he was reading, as his chum, Joe Craig, came walking up the gravel path’ that led from the shady street to the veranda of the Chan- Sg cottage, “what do you think? That one-horse little ; village of Riverd e, ten miles below here, has got a boom “ee on. ” “Rb. I heard my father say the other dag? replied Joe; ot I didn’t take much stock in the report. Has the Times’ got something to say about it this morning?” _ “Yes; a whole lot.” “Let’s hear,” said Joe, in a tong of some interest. “Why, rdale | hasn't even got a bank, I understand.” right. The only thing of importante in the }. h place i is Graham’s Mill, employing some sixty people. Then the ‘mill was started six months ago my father had fler to take charge of the engine-room at a slight over his present wages, but as he had bought this | a bargain, though he hasn’t paid for it yet, he consider he could afford to make any change.” ah | {never won about going i into. any baisitte % h zi pene

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5 de le ad ee aes: FIRST IN THE FIELD. ag EE ASO Ag RED te gee Pe aR eae T SEPT UR OB GON NO ae ORME a RR nat ne ee RR a a a rR fr always scheming and planning with an eye to the|a mere collection of houses strung for the most part on one future. . shady street. ee Some day he meant; to be his own boss, and h8 didn’t| The Westgate “Times” did not apprehend that the intend to permit the grass to grow under his feet just | boom would hurt the growth of that town in the least, and because he did not see any immediate prospect of reaching | it therefore took the occasion to congratulate the little = that desirable condition. village on its coming wave of prosperity. While it is true that there is a saying that all things} “Well, what do you think of Riverdale now, Joe?” as ~come to him who waits, it does not exactly mean that suc- “Tt seems to be looking up and taking notice,” grinned ~ _ cess comes to him who, Wilkins Micawhber-like, waits for | J0e. something to turn up. “Take my word for it, that a year from now the oldest ~ Bob, while obliged by circumstances to wait until things inhabitant won’t be able to recognize the village. It will began: to come his way, was a boy who was wide awake | be a lively little town that will make even Westgate here _ enough to scent a favorable slant of good luck in the dis-| get a hustle on to keep in the van.” : tance and then hustle to meet it half way and grab it] “Ho! Don’t you believe it. Riverdale will never get before it got by him. within hailing distance of this place.” He was determined when Fortune knocked at his door! “Is that so? Well, don’t you he too sure of it, Re- to be right on hand to tell the capricious dame to walk | member, it’s got one advantage over this town: it’s prac- in and make herself at home. . tically at the head of navigation on the river. The shal- In fact, he would have helped her to take her hat and | lows, two miles this side 6f Riverdale, where the river eape off, and pushed a chair forward for her to sit down, | narrows out through the woods, cuts off Westgate from the so that she couldn’t find any excuse for leaving. east by water. No craft of any depth can pass that point. — Bob’s energy and perseverance made him a general favor- Snake River, s0 far as this “place is concerned, is little ite with his comrades, for he took the lead in all sports, | better than a long and narrow lake.” ae and made things hum when he was around. “What of it? Westgate hasn’t much use for the river, Whether it was at a game of baseball, or a row on the|anyway.. Therailroad is good enough for us. River — river that ran by the town, or a spin on the wheel, or a| Davigation is out of date.” ae tackle at football, he went at it as though it was the busi-| “No, it isn’t owt of date, by any means. However, I “ness of his life, and consequently he became a shining | Won't argue the matter, as it would only be a waste of time. _. mark among his school-fellows, and they were proud to| All I can say is, that if I had a little capital I’d go-right’ acknowledge him as their leader, to Riverdale now, rent a shop as close to the new railroad Bob's father and mother were naturally very proud of | station as I could get, and open up a business on the lines him, and the former especially said that the boy was a|1 mentioned.” : Ai _, omer, and from all indications he seemed to be right, “And you think you would succeed, do you?” oe “Well,” said Joe, in answer to Bob’s last remark, “let’s| “It wouldn’t be my fault if I didn’t. I wouldn’t sit” e hear what the ‘Times’ has to say about Riverdale,” behind the counter and let people find out that I was there. ey “Tt has this to say,” replied Bob, picking up the paper | Not on your life. ll bet every person in the village would _ and referring to the column in which the news appeared. | know inside of twenty-four hours after I had my stock _ Then he reads out all the particulars printed about the|on my shelves that Bob Channing was prepared to sell — _ boom that the village in question was taking on. them anything in the stationery, periodical, cigar and cancy am ; Several enterprising business men from Chicago» had | line that they could reasonably expect to get within a picked out Riverdale as an ideal spot at which to put up| tadius of a hundred miles about. What I didn’t carry ee a-big bolt and nut works, a carriage manufactory, a tur-| stock ’'d get for them, so I wouldn’t give one of them an — : niture factory, and one or two other enterprises that would | excuse for sending either to Chester, or Centerville, or ~ _ employ a considerable number of people. this place for anything in my line. All the new factory SS "ath They had laid their plans before the directors of the| hands that are coming to Riverdale will want tobacco, — - railroad company whose line traversed the country within | cigars and reading matter, and I’m the boy that would> — eight miles of the village, touching at Westgate ten miles supply them right up to the handle.” | jes to the west, and Chester twenty miles to the east, and the} “Gee! +I believe you'd get along all right,” said Joe, company found it advantageous to their interests to begin ‘impressed by his chum’s earnestness and enthusiasm. “TI . _ the immediate construction of a branch line from Center-| like to be your partner,” - * re “J’m afraid the business wouldn’t stand a partner fi ville, the nearest town to Riverdale. : _ Sidney Graham, proprietor of the Graham Mill, and some time, or I’d be glad to have you with me” “You talk just as if you expected to open up there.” several of the more important residents of the village, had, ( “T talk just as I feel, that’s all. I wish I w the 453 in view of the expanding interests of Riverdale, recently. : Ww applied for a charter to establish a bank, and this would | position to take advaimtage of the situation, but Maye be opened for business as soon as the necessary formalities | unfortunately. Some other fellow will step in and garner ee ‘the cream, if he’s smart enough. One of s, ho rinter from Chester was putting in a plant to estab-| ever, Il be on hand somewhere with both feet, and kly newspaper, and several other businesses were | I'll have the chance to’ carry out my Kusthess: W - i athit nape anaes: ee a ey It ee 7 “had een gone through with. ‘| see fit.” - een te “You'll never get left.

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FIRST ‘IN THE FIELD. ‘ Wy “Oh, your head is all right, I guess, only we’re not alike.| “It isn’t. I searched every pocket thoroughly, though We probably wouldn’t both suceeed at the same thing. Find} I knew positively I put it in the inside pocket.” what you're cut out for and then put your whole soul into| “Has any stranger been in here since you returned ?” , making that thing a success, and the chances are yow’ll| “There’s been no one here but Steve Fowler.” » ; come out a winner in the end. Now let’s go swimming.”|} Bob glanced around the engine-room and observed Fow- ler, the fireman, watching them in a furtive manner front - CHAPTER IL é ~ | under his shaggy, beetling eyebrows. He was not a pleasant-looking nor an agreeable —_ mn, THE STOLEN POCKETBOOK. this Steve Fowler. ' “What is the matter, father?” asked Bob Channing, as| He was a surly fellow, who had a standing grouch against he walked into the engine-room of the Westgate Woolen ’ Mills next morning about eleven o’clock and saw his father seated on a stool with his head buried in his hands. Richard Channing, whose overalls and checked jumper, stained with grime and oil spots, plainly showed that he was the engineer of the mills, raised his head and looked ~ at his stalwart, good-looking son. ' - Bob was alarmed at the expression he saw on his father’s features. _ His face was ghastly pale, a look of mute despair shone oub of his eyes, and he was trembling with excitement. “Matter!” ejaculated the engineer, in hollow tones, “Tye lost my pocketbook.” j '\“Lost your pocketbook ?” answered Bob, rather surprised te the intense emotion displayed by his father, for Mr. . Channing was not in the habit of carrying mfuch more than _ adollar about him for pocket money. “ ee wasn’t much in it, was there?” _ “Wasn’t much in it!” exclaimed his father, in a hoarse ‘voice, “There was twelve hundred dollars in it.’* “Twelve hundred dollars!” gasped Bob, in amazement. “Yes, Every cent I had in the bank. TI drew it an| hour ago, intending to pay off the mortgage on our cottage, which is due to-day. Now the swe! is gone—lost. Oh, _ Heaven, what shall I do?” _ Bob was staggeredsby this onesie revelation. He knew that his father and mother had been practising great economy for the past three years in order to save| the money to wipe out the mortgdge on their home. _ He had heard his father say the night before at supper at, on the morrow they would own the cottage’ free and r of any incumbrance, and both his parents seemed: to very happy over the bright prospect ahead. Now, like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky, came this nent. that his father had, at the eleventh hour, money he had striven so hard to accumulate. _simply a terrible and oyerwhelming misfortune, e boy no longer wondered at the despairing, hag ard look on his father’s countenance, “You say you as the money from the bank an hour 0, fi the world because things didn’t seem to go as well i him as with other people. ; * In stature he was short and burly, and from the way he handled the iron coal barrow and shayeled the fuel into the furnace, was evidently very strong. - Among his other failings was a great liking for drink, to gratify which at all times he was accustomed to smuggle a pocket flask of whisky into the engine-room. This was against the rules of the mill, and also against the express orders of the engineer, but Fowler persisted in fetching the flask and taking surreptitious drinks when his superior’s back was turned. \ He seemed to work better after each drink, and at no time was he so much under the influence of the stimulant that he couldn’t do his duty right up to the handle, _ For that reason, and also because Fowler had a large family dependent on him for support, Richard Channing refrained from reporting his conduct to the superintendent, and thus bringing about his discharge. Bob Channing didn’t like Steve Fowler’s attitude at that moment, and a grave suspicion entered his head, “If his father hadn’t been out of the engine-room since he came back from the bank, and knew that the money _ ‘was in his jacket when he hung it on its accustomed hook, and nobody had been in the place since except the fireman, it struck the boy that it was quite within the bounds of reason to suppose that ‘Steve Fowler might know something. about the missing pocketbook. : Whether it was that there was something in the boy’s eye that disquieted the fireman or because he had some other reason for quitting his post, he Jaid down the oil can he had been using up to that moment and sauntered slowly and doggedly toward the door. ee “Took here, Fowler,” said Bob, stepping up to the fire. man, “have you seen my father’s pocketbook anywhere?” ” “No, I haven’t,” replied Steve in a es and defiant is tone. “Did you help my father hunt for it ae “No. He tigi ask me to.” “Ves. ” | “What’s that sticking out of your shirt now; Fo 1 | asked Bob, eigen, suddenly on the fireman and ointi jat his chest. ; re | This was a quire bluff on the faye pais as he any sign of the pocketbook in question on Fowler Swot being oes a tesserae to. see -s Id take: fs

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. Bob’s words and the man’s action had a remarkable effect on Mr, Channing. It seemed as if he suddenly woke up: ‘to the Ryibiastion that his fireman might have taken advantage of a moment of inattention on his part and have abstracted the wallet from his jacket. It was quite possible that Fowler had seen him look ai _ the pocketbook when he got back, and had noticed that there was considerable money in it; and then had watched his chance to steal it. “Steve Fowler,” roared Mr. Channing, cprinapiie to his feet and clutching the fireman by the wrists as he held his shirt. closed, “did you take my pocketbook?” “No, I didn’t,” answered the man, doggedly. “Let me see what you’ve got inside your shirt,” said the engineer, clawing at his assistant’s undergarment. Fowler started back with an Eee and tried to throw Mr. Channing off. This action only made the engineer more persistent to get at the truth. A violent struggle took place between them. . Mr, Channing had worked himself into a condition very unusual for a man of his even temperament. Bob was astonished at the sudden display of fury he exhibited, In the mix-up Fowler’s shirt was torn and the boy, _ whose alert eye was watching every move of the struggling Men, distinctly saw the end of an oblong, black objet thrust down into the’ fireman’s bosom next his skin. Satisfied that that was the missing wallet, Bob sprang forward to seize and drag it forth into the light. ___ At that moment Fowler, with a desperate effort, hurled the engineer away from him with great force. ‘Mr. Channing staggered against the fdol bench and then nies wet down on the floor.’ Bob, however, reached for the wallet, but as his fingers | ~. Closed around the end of it, Fowler, with a scream of rage, ‘shoved him away and rushed out of the doorway. Recovering his balance, the boy darted after him and |. saw him making for a corner of the yard. Tt was) close to noon, | and the time-keeper was crossing the yard toward his post at the closed gate to take the ‘names of the employees who left the premises during din- ner hour. “Stop him! Stop that man!” yelled Bob. The clerk heard him, but not seeming to comprehend the situation he permitted Fowler to pass him. : ‘Bob then redoubled his efforts to overtake the fireman. _As he could’ outstrip Steve on a straight cone ae over- hauled him rapidly. : Suddenly the rascal amade for the door of the office. eS Aes if } into > street. 4 | ” - FIRST IN THE’ FIELD. fe i Mr. Creswell, who runs 4 small grey stor : is ‘now that he went in the opposite direction.” |said Joe. “ That’s a small fortune.” | “Is a fortune to us. It’s taken my father over | years to save it? sca iy delayed the on more ee: a Soiree ea s it gave the. fireman an opportunity to cross | it?” eI th office = dart, Pee ae maint tel a Sn ae eed you arrested,” cried the boy, reaching out one hand and grabbing the man by the shoulder. r Steve’s answer was to turn suddenly and plant a heavy — blow on Bob’s forehead, which knocked the daylights out.< of him for several moments, sending him to the ground. When Bob staggered to his feet and looked around in a dazed way for Fowler, the fireman had disappeared. CHAPTER ITI, FIRE! Bob figured that Fowler must have passed up or down the next street, a few yards away, so he began to make in- quiries of people in the vicinity. He found a man who had seen the fireman running toward the river which flowed by the town, and the boy resumed his pursuit in that direction. As Steve’s home was in this direction, Bob judged that he was making for it, and with that idea in his mind he made ~ a short cut across lots, hoping to overtake him before he _ could reach shelter, ; When he struck the river road, which was shaded by a — ene many trees, there was no sign of Fowler in sight. This was a great disappointment to Bob, for he Wad adtintal on cutting the fireman off, and the boy was ee * up for the expected struggle between them, x Looking up and down the road, Bob saw his friend, Joo Craig, seated on a sawed-off tree stump, fishing. : Joe observed the approach of his chum and shouted be 5 him to oaks & a - ‘ Bob dashed across the road. ea “Hello! what’s the matter!” asked Joe. “You ipak ex cited.” j beg “Have you seen Steve Fowler down this way within | v4 the last few minutes?” _asked agen disregarding mas 0, question, 4 “No,” replied Joe, in surprise. *eWhy should he be here at this hour?” an “He stole a pocketbook from my father containing $1,200, and is trying to get away with it.” i ie déd !” exclaimed Craig, much astonished. “When “Half an hour ago. I followed him from the en; room to the corner of the mill fence near Blank St where I overtook him, but when I thought I had him nered he hit me a blow in the face that knocked me . for a minute or two, and when I got on my feet he was I see this way to iry and head him off. Tm “And he has stolen $1,200 of your father’s 1 money?” ; Thats ough! How aia he come

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FIRST IN THE FIELD hee ine eee his chance when my father wasn’t looking and collared it.| of shrill screams coming from the direction of the cot- I -never thought much of Steve, but I did not think he | tage. ea was bad enough to rob my father, ‘who, on the whole, has} “What’s up now?” asked Joe, looking ahead. © 9 5 been good to him.” . |. The screams were childish ones, and seemed to be in- : “You'll have to put the police on to him right away.|spired by terror. © ! : They should be able to catch him before he can get very} Evidently something unusual was : going on rik the Homie far.”” home. ““T dare say father, has done that by this time,” meptied “Good gracious !’” exclaimed, Bob, observing smoke corn ~ Bob; “but I'd give a good deal to catch the rascal myself. | ing out of the front windows. ‘I do believe the house ig - “The worst of it is, he’s so strong that I can’t handle him }.on fire.” : sees © myself. d “T guess you’re right,” replied Joe: “The kids are yell- ; “You can count on me to help you if you only knew| ing to heat the band. It’s a wonder they don’t run ont. is oe ‘where we might be able to find him,” said Joe, winding | into the road.” is in his line and stowing it away in his pocket. Neither of the boys was aware of Mrs. Fowler’s ‘rae “We could follow the road down the river on the Sina tice of locking the little ones in when she went off to her : e of: getting on his trail,” said Bob, in a-tone that was not} day’s work. - 4 a “ over-confident of results, “Steve has heard the racket, and I guess he sees the “Let’s do it,” replied Joe, jumping to his feet. “Hello!| smoke, too, for he’s working hard at his oars,” said Joe. - __ Isn’t that him now, coming down the river in a rowhoat?”| “It will take him some little time to reach the nearest Bob looked in the direction pointed out by Joe, and sure | point of the shore. It looks as if we'll have to lend a hand enough he recognized Steve Fowler, in a boat, :pulling lust-|-o save his home and then settle with him afterward, ee ay ily at a pair of oars. he’s got any gratitude he'll be willing to give up that ie et bet he’s making for his house’ to get some clothes| money in return for our services. If he hasn’t we'll make before skipping out,” he said. “We'll get behind the hedge him, if we have to knock the daylights out of him.” MG and. follow him in that direction. When he lands, and Even as he spoke the cries of the children grew more : is about to enter his cottage, we'll take him. by surprise, | shrill and agonizing, while the smoke increased in density. and get the wallet awa: 2 from him.” -. Satisfied that the little ones were in peril of their lives, (ATL ight, ” agreed’ his companion, and they started | Bob momentarily dismissed his concern about the ge off. book from his mind and, followed hy Joe, started at full ~ Occasionally they glanced through the. iReage at the river | speed for the burning cottage. as they went along, and thus kept their quarry in sight. Bob dashed up to the front door ane tried the ale, _ At length they came in sight of the Fowler cottage,| {t was locked. ch which was hardly a presentable kind of habitation after} “Come around to. the hack, ” he said, making a, breake having heen in Steve's possession half a dozen years. for the rear of the building. It was a one-story-and- a-half affair, sadly in need of a| On trying the kitchen door he, found that locked, to, , at of paint, and much out of repair. % 7 bs No wonder the young ones can’t get out, a a said, OX 2 ne Fowler family consisted of Steve himself, his wife, citedly. “We've got to break in, Joe.” ho found it necessary to go out washing for the neighbors} “‘That’s what we have to do,” replied his companion, ie ‘about twice a week to make both ends meet, Max Fowler,| Fortunately, there was an. axe standing against a se disagreeable young bully of seventeen years, and three woodpile, and Joe got it. inger children, all girls. | With one blow he smashed in the lock and the doo: : ax Was a good-for-nothing boy, aye maight have helped swung open inward. f ape if he ane been - disposed te work Seu) ‘Bob rushed inside and made his way to the front room, where he had seen the smoke issuing from the window. A girl of seven lay shrieking on the rag carpet, her dress | on fire, while two younger children stood near by aye and terribly frightened at their sister’s peril. = Bob rushed into an adjoining bedroom, ‘tore the coms ray or, gnother. | forter from the bed and, returning to the blazing room, even stay around the a when» aes wrapped the little girl in it, smothering out th y 1 to prevent | that had already mae ih the dae si of isk [ae ay : bs hes was idle Aone. aieceaikee of his ¢ he made when he met) he ‘spent on |

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6 . FIRST IN THE FIELD. 7 Oe —_————— Sa Sp aaet SB eT Sk ; Ys Bob saw the necessity of removing the children from Steve caught sight of his three little ones and rushed the danger that threatened. over to them. \ “Run the kids outside, Joe. Tl follow with this girl.”| At that moment his wife, who was working not far eilgie oh Craig seized the little ones each by a hand and hurried | and had at length caught sight of the smoke, came running © * them out into the yard, while Bob followed with the suf-| frantically on the scene, followed by two men. | ferer in his arms. She grabbed the burned girl in her’arms and began to - We've got to try and save the house, if we can, Joe,”| cry out for a doctor. “said Bob, laying the girl down near the well. “ Stay with} Steve, forgetting about the money he had on his person. . Z your sister, little ones, and don’t dare move away,” he | hurried away to the house of a physician about half Ke added to the children, mile away. ‘They regarded him with a look of awe and huddled| The two. men t started in to, assist the boys sabe out the — around the other girl, whose'shrieks were now reduced to | fire. pitiful moans. . By the time Steve returned with the doctor the exértions 7 ‘The boys looked around the kitchen for more pails, but | of the four had subdued the flames, although they had a . none were to be seen. strenuous job for a while on their hands. = “Get hold of that pan; it will have to answer. Ill go| The front room was badly wrecked, but the house was into the front room for the bucket you had,” ordered Bob, saved, and that was everything. Pe assuming command of the situation. Bob had suffered the most from the smoke on accoutit _ “All right,” replied Joe, nse: the pan and making | of the position he had maintained in the attic so rong as for the well. there was any danger. es ’ Bob entered the burning room, which was now filled with| When he rejoined Joe below his eyes were red and ate ‘ _ smoke that was pouring out of the two front windows, and} len, and smarted a good bit. _ grabbed the pail. As soon as he got the chance, he drew a bucket of wate He could see the lurid flames creeping up the window and began bathing them. ae frames, and all about the wall. The little girl in the meantime had told her mother ie 3 _ [The boy was afraid that the fire had got too great a| Bob had saved her from being burned up, and how Joe headway for them to cope successfully with it. had carried her sisters outside the house, and thus save “Tm afraid it’s a hopeless job,” he muttered, his eyes} their lives, too. j beginning to smart from the smoke, as he retreated to the} The poor woman was deeply ith to the boys, an doorway. ‘However, we'll do _the. best we can, and that’s | expressed her gratitude as best she could under the cd all we can do.” cumstances. “As he left. the room the Bites seemed to take a a _ As soon as his cottage was out of danger, Steve sudden! hold on the inflammable material at their dudes ‘recollected what had brought him home, and he hastened patent. the wees was doomed. to get a coat and hat and try to steal away. J ‘oe saw him when he started for the river. “Fowler is trying to skip, Bob,” he said to his chum, “We'd better get after him at once and prevent — from mn. getting afloat im the boat.” Bob hurriedly dried his smarting eyes, and with, started for the road. ieee Steve was making tracks for his boat. “Hold on there, Steve Fowler,” =, Bob. and hand over my father’s money.” | Steve cast a rapid glance over his tiie anid the two boys in pursuit, broke into a run. Sp Abels CHAPTER IY. Sage - TRAPPED. x “The boys raat two or three pails and pans of water _into the front room and threw their contents on the flames “without materially diminishing the conflagration. A half-consumed toy stove lying against the blazing base- board, and a box of matches beside it, suggested, the ae the fire. Bob soon saw that sta was is useless to continue to pour iter n the flames in the room when he | saw that the fire had less the blaze could be arrested above, the e608 was s b md to catch in a few minutes. 8 when they filled their pail and pan again, Bob led] the ‘upstairs, and found the fire ist coming through | x g ‘the contents of the pan carefully into the blaz- he sent Jo oe back for another supply of. water and mued t wpe work with the gas he. had river. ba Be ‘N Before Steve ‘ould a step aboard” hn fea | Bob was upon him * The rascal turned upon. ae bo ce "Seizing him “by, the should sth, he fairl

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FIRST IN THE FIELD. a rate ' Bob went to one of the small openings in the side of the cuddy and Joe to the other, and looked out on the ete of the river. The stream was about two hundred yards wide at this” point, and though the sense of motion was imperceptible to the boys, a glance at the river banks showed them that they were slowly moving down the ‘stream. : They found that they were about midway in the river. “Hello!” cried Bob. “Here’s Steve now, rowing past — us. 3 Joe turned around ses looked over his companion’s’ ee shoulder. Fowler was abreast of their observation hole, a few Nee 3a) away. - He saw the faces of the os boys framed in the little ; window and he gave them the sardonic laugh. ' ee To better enjoy his triumph he pulled close alongside of the flatboat. “Well, my chickabiddies, how do you like it in there! pr he asked, with a grin. Pe “You're a nice man, you are,” returned Bob, in a tone ‘ of disgust. “A fine way to treat us after we saved your — cottage from being destroyed and your children from being — A Burned to death. 1 should think yowd be ashamed of | “yourself.” en “T had to Jook out for myself. You chaps had no busi-- ness to follow me,” replied Steve. “No business to follow you?” cried Bob. “After ee had stolen every cent of my father’s savings!” “JT couldn’t resist the temptation of takin” the money when it was so easy to get at. And now I’ve got it I’m goin’ to keep it. I never could earn so much money if 1 lived to be a hundred. ‘the world hasn’t treated me right. I’ve as much right to have money as your father, for I worked harder than he did. But luck was ag’in me and : jin his favor. Now I’ve evened things up. “He's. got good job and can make the money over ag’in; I neve ; could make it workin’, so V’ve took it and mean to make the most I can out of it. If you’d left me alone you~ wouldn’t have got into your hole. Now you’ve got to stay where you are till somebody comes along and lets you fet ont 2 ac With these parting words he resumed rowing once more, and soon shot out of Tange of the boys’ vision. : ve oe was furious at the attack made upon his companion and flew to his aid. _ He was equally helpless in the grip of the fireman, who “swing him aboard the flatboat as though he were a child, and tumbled him on top of his chum. - Steve then noticing the sliding door to the iat: pulled ~ it over and secured it in place by thrusting the stout pit _ through the hasp. at “The boys were thus made prisoners in the little 4x6 Space below deck, and Steve Fowler was master of the situation. With an evil laugh he unloosed the painter of his own boat, and as he stepped into her the small flatboat rocked under his weight. ge . ie g - This seemed to suggest a new idea to him. He worked ‘the rowboat around to the beach, stepped : ashore, and while he held the line in his hand he gaye the _ other craft a heavy push, which partially set her afloat. sire second _ eee a object, oe the current aye “Presently aie was floating pees with the tide, and Steve, with a grim chuckle, got into his own boat. and, shipping the oars, followed her with leisurely strokes, In the meantime Joe had crawled off of Bob and was ying to bring his companion to his senses, which was not difficult matter, as Bob was already coming to himself. With the door of the cuddy shut, the place would have ‘wrapped in Cimmerian darkness but for two small snings about six inches square on either side of the boa answered ‘for windows. They admitted light and air, and thbouek one shone the ays ¢ of the early afternoon sun, ll, how are you feeling, Bob?” asked Fae when his anion sat up and looked around. in a bewildered way. Kind of rocky,” replied Channing. “Where are we? ought that rascal fired me down inte a hole.” “That’s what he did. He threw you down into the after ho of a small flatboat that was stranded on the river bank, aad when I went for him he treated me to a dose of the ~ same medicine. He’s as strong as a horse.” We'v ve" got to get out of here as shee as cca: I Sis He Pp oF ie slide « over after he Bundled. me on top E you,” said Joe. “I hope he didn’t find a way to secure if he did we're in a pretty fix.” fo,7 7 Se CHAPTER V. ze ae DOWN THE RIVER, arth shore.” . Nee 3 7 It must have worked oft or Hewes pushed | rt now that the old thing rocked two or was: floundering about.” eas ; t, but foiend “Tt looks as if our names are Mud at. pres Joe, gloomily, as the sound of Steve’s oars dit the diste nee ahead. io ee ee 1 the other et Bob. “Aho ; ve going to do now??" Jit ee ie has done va pathic’ a ee n n, ‘ss es ie retamed telephone to Riverdale, Chester Nat go ple A {the lookout for For vay

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oe ’ Ree <, St eee. FIRST IN. THE FIELD. An examination: failed to disclose any weak board, nor ~ was there a knothole through which they could peer into the space beyond. Est Then they fell to examining the two cupboards in the — cuddy. Fe One of them was empty, the other held a few broken - : dishes, a stout gimlet, a fishing line with several hooks attached, a broken knife, and various odds and ends of no value. — “Tf we could bore enough holes in that door in a circle t with this gimlet we might be able to knock a piece out large enough to put an arm through and thus reach the staple, if it is a staple that’s holding the old thing,” said ‘Se Joe, oe “Judging reach the apparent thickness of the door, that would be an all-day job,” replied Bob. “However, you might try one hole and see how thick the wood really is.” Joe tackled the job and worked away for a while likea good fellow while Bob kept his eye on the shore through. a each window alternately. ' : “There’s one hole done,” said Joe. “The wood is about, an inch thick, but hard grained. A hardly think it will pay to keep on.” “We're drifting over toward the ae. shore,” said Bob. “Tt isn’t impossible. but we a as aground at one of the turns in the river.” Joe put the gimlet in his pocket and stood beside his companion watching the shore as it drew closer. ‘Well-tilled farms were in evidence in this direction; \ and they could see men at work some distance away. Cae Farm houses dotted the landscape here and there, an horses and cattle were to be made out in the meadows. Over all lay the brilliant afternoon sunshine. Under different: cireumstances the scene would haverd in ~ the town, sneak to the railroad station and board a train | _-} for the East. After that one might as well hunt for a _, needle in a haystack as to expect to overhaul him,” a “He's a measley scamp, if there ever was one. That money won’t do him- any good.” “Perhaps not, but that will give my father verv little satisfaction.” _“T wish we could get out of this, hole.” “J wish so, too.” ~* “ow fast do you suppose we’re going?” “We're floating away from Westgate at the rate of three or four miles an hour, I should think.” | “What time do'vou think it is?” . “Around two ‘o’clock.” “Tf nobody boards this derelict, we’re likely to float. all the way to Chester,” said Joe. “Yes, and even beyond.” ACT ‘will be long after dark before we reach that town . at this rate.” . Le '.“There’s no doubt about that.” _. As we haven’t had our diimers, we'll be pretty hungry long before we get there,” growled Joe. “I’m feeling peck- - ish already.” _ “Pm not thinking about my stomach—it’s the probable ~ loss of the money that worries me.” “J don’t blame you. It’s a big sum to lose.” ; “Tf we, could only get out of this part of the hold, we might find a chance somehow of overtaking that rascal, _ though I suppose he’s out of sight by this time.” - “We must keep a bright lookout for people along the : banks—y ou watch out of that window and I'll look out of this—iv ave our handkerchief and yell when we see any one near the shore. ‘That seems fo be our only show.” “We'll do that, but these holes are so plagney small that at a hundred. yards or so we’re not likely to be seen.” terested the two boys. ; “They could see the handkerchief all right.” |. “Suppose this old hulk was to spring a leak and ‘g “But would the meaning of the signal be understood ?| down, where would we be at?” asked Joe, suddenly. _ The waving of a handkerchief is more of a salute than “At the bottom of the river,” replied Bob, with a f ing else, and that’s the way folks take it.” [chuckle ; tS could attract ihe, attention first with the hand- At that moment the boat swung around a bend Land ¢ swept within ten feet of the hanks. a ad “Tf some boy was only down. here fishing or swimm {| now,” said Joe, “we could easily. attract his notice an | him to free us.” hate hs “If is a. small word, but oh, my! it does cian great — | figure in the world. If Steve Fowler hadn’t stolen father’s money, we wouldn’t be in this fix.” 4 ed Steve hadn’t stolen the 'r money, we wouldn en at his cottage to save his children and _ |The wicked reap the reward os vine the : toned away at it with eae eneray: until. they] iti in the neck, Fe : was simply useless work on their part. ng s short of a battering-ram will have any effect |. ead. als he wonder how xe rascal fast- ok ~ Thats so,” replied ae with. a - glum look. “1 didn’t de think of that.” : |, don’t be’ Siveounagod. We're not going to give ship just because things look a b bit ad: Never hig re ye a sand .

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FIRST IN. THE FIELD. ~ long have we been on the river, anyway? It seems like | “To-morrow is pay-day, and it’s the treasurer’s custom. hours.” ; to go over to Centerville the afternoon before, draw the- “Not over an hour, I guess.” money, and then keep it in the safe in the office over- “Tm getting deuced hungry, do you know.” night. We've just learned that the regular watchman is _ “Are you? Then tighten your belt. T’ve heard that is| sick, and it’s more than likely some greenhorn-will be on » a good antidote.” _|guard. That will make things easier for us. Pay-day “T don’t wear a belt,” growled Joe. being every two weeks, there ought to be a good wad in “Then you'll have to grin and bear it.” 4 the safe to-night, and we’ve got the tools that'll aete “Aren’t you hungry, too?” it open in no time.” — - Not so much; but if I had father’s money in ps pack “TI agree with you, Jackson,” said the other. “The vil- now, I'll bet I’d ‘be as hungry as a hunter.” lage hain’t had a robbery for years, and the people don® * Another hour passed and still not a soul did they see | expect nothin’ of the kind is likely to happen. Although — within easy distance of the stream, which had now narrowed | the place has taken a boom on, and--seems likely to spread down. to a width of less than a hundred yards across, and | itself to some extent before long, they hain’t made no per- ; seemed to be getting as crooked ag a ram’s horn. vision yet fot raisin’ more constables. The two who now ., At one time they’d be within a yard or two of the bank | attend to the night duty are slower than. molasses. Ab “on one side and then the current rae sweep them close| the present moment Riverdale is a regular cinch for a. _ to the opposite shore, pair of experienced chaps like us.” 5. ov Tt became a matter of wonder Bs hem that the old boat “That’s what it is, Billings,” replied Jackson, aes didn’t go aground somewhere at one of the many turns. | cently. “It oughtn’t to take us more’n an hour to get — “ Several times the boat did strike an obstruction, but its | into that safe, and then. with the boodle in our clothes we'll te “progress was in no way retarded. | skip out for Chicago and enjoy life while the rhino lasts.” fee Lng position of the sun in the sky plainly shibwed that} “With the proceeds of the Chester job in our grips, which the afternoon was drawing to its close, though it would | we'll be able to pawn in Chicago without danger, and $1, 000 still be light for several hours. to $1,500 in bills from the mill safe, we ought to: be able et Sometimes the shore presented a ‘thickly wooded aspect | to live high for the next three or four months.” a and then again the fields and pastures stretched away on “You kin bet we will,” said Jackson, taking out oe both sides. | pipe, filling it and striking a light, an example immedi Ny: t length the river grew Still nartower and they ape: ately followed by his companion. eared to. he sailing through a good-sized wood. | “That there factory couldn’t be in a better spot. for our Suddenly, as they swung around a bend, they saw two | purpose,” remarked Billings. “It’s quite isolated from Hone. ot over well dressed, seated on a log near the water’s regular part of town.” _ Ae oe | “It is at present, but it. won't, be for long. The Tail- Bach had a paper bundle on his knee, the contents of | road is buildin’ a branch that will soon be finished, and re ich they were eating. six' months from now there will be a dozen more manu- They. caught. sight “of the flatboat as it ‘swept toward | facturin’ establishments all around the Graham Mill.” em, and at first they regarded it with some interest; but}, “We kin come back then and make another haul,’ fe hat it ante to be old and = Kayo “they chuckled his companion. i “We'll think about that later on. Say, ae is that a ite hai them when the nose of the | boat hauled up in them bushes?” pote bit of the bank ahead and suddenly] “Whereabouts?”) ety a Btop. ' “Down there. Don’t you see iter : We Cd he end the boys were fe dink the after part—slowly | “T see it now. Sure it’s a boat.” ts io ward until it finally rested against the bank Tight “T wonder what it’s doin’ there? It should be juke 3 ‘spot where the two men sat. thing for us to take charge of. When we've cracked the ", Bob,” a Joe, in some excitement at their | crib we could Tow ‘up to Westlake i in it and take the fi “These pee will let “us out in train iff the mornin’ East from there.” :. : ‘ . | “That will be jnst the thing. What luck !?” replied Bil is face against the opening to 0 80. whe n 1 he lings. “We'd better hide it domewheres else, so that if th the en oy, se ae the other that | owner comes back lookin’ for it to-night he won’t find it,’ = x Saas “All right. You’ re younger than me, 80. hae un u to it wee, I finish my smoke.” as um CL] ad

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BatO. FIRST IN THE FIELD. Tt was only the stern that moved, however, and very _ slowly at that. As the legs of the two erooks came into, the lad’s. range + of vision above on the bank, Bob overheard the man Jack: son say: _, “Hist! There’s some one comin’ this way. Ii may be _ the owner of the boat. We'd better hide.” The rascals rose and concealed themselves among the _ tall bushes near at hand. _ As the flatboat swung further off Bob, to his great as- #tonishment, saw Steve Fowler appear from among the trees with a bundle under his arm. He sat down on a rock within a are or two of the spot ' where the crooks had vanished, and without appearing to notice the flatboat, opened the bundle and began to eat something that was in it. - Bob and Joe watched him furtively from pei “prison pen. _« “He stopped here to buy something to eat at the village --beyond—Riverdale, one of those rascals ealled it. Tl bet - that was his boat the crook took possession of and hid _ further away. He'll find himself stranded. here now. If We were only able to eet out of this place, we could take him by surprise and get the money away from him with- out trouble. Td just as soon lay him out with a dip over the head with a stone as look at him.” ‘They watched Steve cat his meal with considerable appe- = tite, and the operation made Joe hungrier than ae though cee did not have the same effect on Bob. v Although neither was aware of the fact, two other pair Cos eyes were on Fowler at the same time. The eyes, as the reader will surmise, belonged to the s Shon who had temporarily withdrawn from the scene, “Tf those rascils who just left knew that Steve had ce $1,200 i in his clothes, I guess they wouldn’t lenve it long “in his possession,” whispered Joe. ee “Tl bet they wouldn’t,” returned Bob. “His advantage “is that he doesn’t look like a capitalist, No one-to look at him: would imagine he had any money to speak of.” _ “T should say not. He looks like a eo more than ything else,” Steve continued to eat until he ‘be satisfied his appe- Si = * the package at his feet. taking a eautious survey of the PU Saas he his hand inside of his undershirt and drew eut Mr. ng’s black poekethook, — - > and J ‘oe watched this action 0 on n his as with eager eae it,” replied Toe. ay ong to count the TL bet.” * : ; me Steve's intention, } with all ee for ce he could nruster. then he rolled up the remainder of his Piptader and | _| against,” he-said, when he finally threw up t | weakened the lower slide. until finally - one of Joe was of thé same opinion, iota he natd nothing in reply. we ~ After the crooks had fully satisfied themselves that Fows - rar ler had a bunch of money in his possession, they stealthily advanced upon him from behind and suddenly poe upon him. He was taken completely by surprise, and the money and - pocketbook fell to the grass. Then thé man Jackson struck him on the head with’ eet butt of his reyolyér, which he had drawn for the purpose, — and Steve was knocked out for fair, dropping like an ox 3 in the shambles. Billings stooped and grabbed up the scattered notes which, inant counting, he crammed into his pocket. we ee The rascals then picked up a pair of large grips, whieh — had been hidden in the grass, and, leaving their victim - on the ground, silently took their way through the wood, disappearing from the boys’ sight.! fe % Bob and Joe turned and looked at each other. eae - “Your father’s money is in worse hands than it was” before,” said Joe. “You’ve seen the last of it now.”. : ““T don’t know about that,” replied, Bob, drawing a Tong breath. “Those rascals are going to remain in this vicin- — ity for some hours yet, for they jntend to burglarize the Graham Mill at Riverdale. We must make another strenu ous effort to get out of the hold,” . “T don’t see how we're going to do it. Wer ve already done our best and failed. We eae erawl out of these | ‘Six- inch square windows. I’m ready to try anything you say, but I’m afraid we're cooped up here for an indefinite stay. The worst of it is, we’re anchored in this beastly wor which makes our chances all the slimmer.” ‘Bob made no answer, but a look of determination ¢a: over his features. = He drew back opposite the aide as foe as he could, rushed at it and planted his foot against the fastened on wer ing. He ones this effort severe! times, onde ‘then told Joe to try. defied his most sturdy "ee to reat 4 it open. “This is. the fiercest proposition T’ve ever be “If at first you don’t succeed, try once more again making a battering-rarh out of his fo The continuous falling of a drop of water on a stone, however hard, will in time wear ou So the steady lambasting the door got from. the f Joe’s demolished the outer ae 3 it ae

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FIRST IN. - With intervals for resi, the boys banged away for more n an hour, for it seemed to be the only avenue of escape from the enddy. _ At length a tremendous kick from Joe’s foot completed “the demoralization of the slide. Tt flew upward, snapping the hasp in two. -“Bureka!” yelled Joe, seizing the bottom of the door ~ and pushing it outward until the upper slide snapped off. ~ “Now, altogether!” eried Craig. “Push out with all our might, Bob.” Their united muscle snapped the door off at the other , and it fell on to the deck, leaving the way to freedom clear before them. doe sprang out on deck, quickly followed by Bob. “Free at last!” eried the latter, exultantly. CHAPTER VII. TRYING TO PREVENT A CRIME. “Gee! It feels good to be out of that hole,” said Toe, a. “expanding his chest.and inhaling a deep breath ; “but oh, ’, I believe I’m crippled for life,” and he limped up and the deck’ of the flatboat. b was also sensible that his tight leg was sore and lame. the Unusval exercise it had been called upon to “Let's go aati and see ae shape Steve Fowler i is in. been lying like a dead man for more than an hour, ope they didn’t injure es 80 seriously that he won't over. 9 € was beginning to recover his senses when they , and they concluded to let him complete the t was just sundown and Bob said they had better go Ri verdale as fast as they could and see about check-, ting the two crooks, ll notify Mr. Graham as soon as we find out where che lives that an attempt is to be made to-night to rob the ‘ “olfice safe. Then it will be up to him to figure out how the rascals may be captured. If they are coppered, Hl stand a first-class show of getting my. father’s money ack, and, then our afternoon’s adventure will not have reach. the village any too slate suit me,” } m almost famished. I could make a pear quicker than a conjuror makes’ a aish. _ I’m hungry enough to tackle a board- ey say that’s the ane thing on} on ld ey aonaiteek in ae eating Tine, my-| ey started off in the direction eee Ub as: indicated he ste “Tt will be dark before we reach the nil esr : = “No. Tm g0 it “ae THE FIELD. Bob ‘agreed, as he wanted to make some inquiries. So they marched up to the farmhouse and stated their wants to the good-natured woman who answered their knock. ; When she learned that they hadn't eaten anything since morning, she told them to walk right into the kitchen and she would let them have some itieat and bread, an apple pie, and all the milk they could drink. At her words Joe rolled his eyes in an ecstasy of de- light. - They were soon seated at the table, and the way the. meat and bread disappeared from shee plates was a cau- tion. “You are hungry, aren’t you?” said the woman. “Hungry!” gurgled Joe. “Don’t mention it. I’m so. hungry I ean hardly stop to chew. Pass that milk jug, Bob. Gee! that pie looks good. Vd rather have a slice. of that than the deed to a hundred-acre farm.” The woman cut the pie in quarters and told the boys to help themselves. Joe got the first slice, and every crumb vanished ne oe the dew on the grass before the morning sun. } Then he tackled a second slice. eae While he was eating it the farmer came into the 00m, and Bob asked him if the village ahead was Riverdale. nee The agriculturalist said it was. \ ~ “Can you tell me where Graham’s Mill is?” 3 -“T{’s about a mile from here down the road, and half re te a mile this side of the village,” replied the farmer. “There are no houses near it, are there?” “No. It sets off from the road by itself.” a “Kind of a lonesome spot at night, isn’t it?” - - The farmer nodded. eat “Where does Mr. Graham, the proprietor of the i yer” “You're going on to the village, aren’t en 2” Be ga “Then you're bound to: ‘pass his house before you. aoe there. He lives in a fine mansion near the junction of the county road and Main Street. It’s surrounded. by a Jawa and ltas an observatory on top.” - bp" “Thank you,” said Bob, “I guess that is aly I wish to. paar” know.” 3 A few minutes afterward the boys took their leave the hospitable farmer and his wife, who refused to 1 any pay for the food they had so generously _ ice the lads. ea feel like a fighting cock now,” said toe: io Were on the road once more. “T could have eaten é ‘as much, but what we had went to the right spot.” “That's right. An empty stomach kind of takes all = ae enthusiasm out of a fellow.” _ “JT should say that it does,” * MPS “Are you: ‘going to stop there! oie Nan 5 straight on to see Mr. Belles ) the

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12 FIRST IN THE FIELD. Th, was a three-story cana Pe with numerous windows for the admission of light and air, and a small - brick ell that the boys easily judged to be the. engine-room, for a tall black smokestack projected through its roof. . There was no fence surrounding it like that of the West- gate Woolen Mills, where Bob’s father was employed, so _ that one could walk right up to the building from any * point of the compass. A solitary light shone an a window on the ground - floor at one corner. The boys afterward hespk out that this was the office. _, “TI guess there is no one on the premises now but the watchman, ” remarked Bob, as they tramped past, | “It Seo inet strikes me as an easy place to rob, provided: the _ thieves have the tools and the experience mate which to break into the safe.” _ Joe agreed with him, and aia he Ritts the owners would keep a large sum of money in what was probably an ordinary safe so far outside the village with only a single watchman to guard it. _ “Oh, it’s safe enough under the. general run of condi- “Hons in village neighborhoods. Professional cracksmen _very seldom are attracted to such small places as River- dale. Tramps and such scalawags are about the only dan- al -gerous characters that float around here, and they couldn’t Open. a safe if they knew there was a million dollars inside of it. It takes tools and expert knowledge to get the best of any kind of a modern safe, and the one at the mill is | probably a good one, if it isn’t a large one. The two _erooks we are trying to run down appear to be professionals ordinary safe. They drifted to, Chester somehow, robbed a house or two there, by their own admission, and while in _the town learned something about Graham’s ‘Mill. Then they. came on to the village, reconnoitered the ground, ; learned further particulars that decided them to make ‘the attempt on the mill to-night. ‘No doubt they'were in _ hiding in the wood where we saw them all afternoon.” — “Now that they’ve got hold of that $1,200 belonging _ to your father, they might, sive up the ap enterprike and light out.” ih “Don’t you believe it. "They tess ‘upon “ie mall job as a dead open-and-shut game. They don’t expect to have the least trouble in getting away with the money they expect to find in the safe.” ight i “I be ithe to gamble on it. vs - “At about what time?” ‘I didn’t hear them mention any time, but I ‘thea oa ey’ll start in early, as the place ig so ‘Tonesome; for the they get through the more time they'll have: to get | ore they calculate the iba of the tee nd that rate there a their capture.”” _ provided with the tools that will make short: work of any | “Then it’s a pretty sure. thing | that they'll go there to- thes h it sill probably laxtta 700) The reasor “Tf you find him at home.” “The chances are he’s at home.’” Five minutes later the two boys entered the front ee and walked up the gravel walk to the veranda of the Graham residence. Bob rang the bell, and after an interval a servant opened -— the, oor about six inches, or as far as a steel chain would — permit, and asked who was there. s “Ts Mr. Graham at home?” asked Bob. *, “No,” replied the servant, “he is not at home.” “Too bad |”? said the boy in a tone of great disappoint-_ ment. “I wanted to see him on business of the greatest importance.” a “Who sent you?” Me Wok “Nobody sent me. Can you tell me where I can find — Mr. Graham? It is positively necessary that : see him as soon as possible.” “Who is there, Maria?’ asked a ‘girlish | voice at that juncture. “Two boys ou want to see your father on important business,” replied the servant. a eed “Who are they?” ip “1 don’t know, miss, Shall I ask their names?” “ Certainly. If we, know them let them in, and [ te talk to them.” “My rtame is Bob Channing. My friend here is "ae Craig. We live in Westlake.” ae ory The servant repeated this reply to the young ia) ‘ ‘full of euriosity as to the mission of the young neers ‘ came to the coe and looked out at them. Fe their satin: : “What is your business with my father?” asked Graham, looking at the indistinct figure of Bob. “Tt is very important, miss. It concerns the mill : “The mill!” she exclaimed, with a tremor in h “Phere is nothing wrong there, A hope?” ~ «Nothing: at present, I believe, but there will couple of hours or so unless I can see your fath warn him.” “My gracious!” ‘cried the ail: ; “Dring a foe | Excuse me, Mr, ——” “Channing,” said Bob. abe i “Hxcuse me, Mr. Channing, for not sauces yo put it is necessary ‘that we be cautious at night when my father | is away. You say you. are from ie ge ae “Yés, miss.” em “And yeu came from there to ‘see my father see your father is because I have found out the office is to be broken into to-night, and thi The young girl uttered a nae réa: | esting inieligen Ney wie ai aH

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FIRST IN THE FIELD. oa a \ “As they looked to he thoroughly respectable and honest, | in as few words as possible how his father had been cabtied Se Miss Graham was reassured and decided to admit them. | of all his savings that: morning by his fireman at the _ Accordingly the chain was let down, the door opened, Westgate Mill; how he had started in pursuit of the thief, q and, the boys invited to enter, which they did: %..’ {run across Joe, and how they had arrived at the Fowler ; The girl ‘Jed them into the. dining-room and then intro-| home in time to save the rascal’s children and his cottage ‘ duced herself as Gertie Graham, the mill owner’s only |‘from the flames. ., daughter. Then he went on to state how Fowler had overcome both _ She was an uncommonly pretty and winsome girl, and| Joe and himself, tumbled them into the cuddy, or after © : hold, of the flatboat, and then sent them adrift on the river, and how they had floated down the stream for the - greater part of the afternoon until the boat was stranded among the shallows of the woods a good three miles to wake southwest of Riverdale. The girl listened to his story with great interest ae attention. . He was just on the point of introducing the crooks into — his narrative when the telephone bell rang, and Miss Gertie got up to answer it. The head constable was on the wire, and the girl soon put him in possession of all necessary particulars, told him what she wanted him to do, and advised the nemeet haste. The officer promised to be over as soon as he could with a force sufficient to grapple with the situation. — Gertie Graham told Bob what the constable said, and then asked him to go on with his story. om The boy took up ‘the thread of his narrative at the point where’ the two crooks came on the scene, and told the girl ‘how he had overheard their plans concerning the proposed robbery of her father’s mill that night. : Then he told her how Fowler had appeared and how — the rascals had knocked him out and taken the $1, 200 ; away from him. After that he detailed the strenuous efforts, finally suc. cessful, of Joe and himself to break out of their oo prison. % “Then we came on here to notify your Suite: getting tf the location of your home from a farmer along the road, who treated us to supper.” — : “JT think you had a most remarkable experience, Mr. ie Channing,” said Miss Graham. “My father will feel, when _ he comes home and learns all, that he is under the greatest, of obligations to you. From your story I can easily see — that the mill is at the mercy of those thieves, and that but for your promptness in coming here to-night the mill office . ‘would no doubt be found robbed in the morning. Tt seems me strange to me that those men should have heen able to Jearn ve _|that Mr. Black, our treasurer, drew the money to pay off | ot ae from the Centerville Bank this afternoon. I don’t aa one how much sae is in the office ae, but it is oyer that fact immediately impressed itself on both of the young “. visitors, Bob having constituted himself ised: a position not disputed by Joe, who always considered himself as second fiddle where his chum was concerned, Miss Gertie . naturally bestowed most of her attention on him. _ She saw that he was a good-looking, manly boy, with _an engaging address, and she took an ee liking for: hime. 49 “Now, Mr. Channing, will you explain diattaes to me? _ You say that you found out a robbery is to be committed at the mill to-night?” _ “Yes, Miss Graham.” “How did you happen to discover this bs il Do you know who the men are?” _ Bob, before replying, glanced at the. gilt” lock on the ‘ mantel and saw that it was on the stroke of eight.. . “To make you thoroughly understand all the circum- stances, I’d haye to tell you what brought me and my friend, Joe Craig, to this neighborhood. I’m afraid that would take more time than we can afford to lose, for there is no telling when the two rascals, who I can assure you ae positively are professional crooks, may get to work at the mill, and Phave as much interest in having them captured as your father can have. They have in their possession 1,200. belonging to my father, and I am very anxious to -recoyer that money.” “My father and mother have gone to Chesbr to visit vy aunt, who is very ill. The best thing that I can do to telephone the head constable, and have him ver here. I will tell him to stop on the way at the s of the two foremen of the mill, and also at Mr. eke jhe treasurer’s house, and to bring any other help A pick uD, 6: said Gertie Graham, rising fromi her ih ta ln Aly ner tes Sen lh Ca ie ose \ é ‘will ‘answer dest até, ” replied Bob. “If we can a dozen men ‘together, Joe and I will make eight. ght ‘to ‘be force enough to capture the rascals, y Be we sr take them fp Bape, as I should | you will es it hati x -| “There isn’t much’ doubt but theyll saves nie Graham,” said Bob. “They've also got ‘a lot’ of st their grips that is tae in Chester. This can be r at the eiaitek was Not ‘the citrost she was 7 unable to find her husban g up. Squire ok and tell. him te ict

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4 FIRST IN THE FIELD. _ Bob immediately told them such particulars as he con- sidered necessary, and advised instant action. Constable Howard and Mr. Black agreed. that no time should be lost, and so after the boys had bidden Miss ' Graham good-night, and Bob particularly had been in- __-vited by her to call back in the morning if he and. his _ friend remained overnight in the village, as it was very likely they would be obliged to do, the party took up its - line of march for the mill. It was now nine o’clock, and they lost no time in covering the intervening half mile. _ The lamp was still burning in the mill office when they came in sight of the place, and a halt was called under the shadow of a big oak tree to determine how they. ought to proceed, “Tt is quite possible that those rascals ate hanging around the neighborhood at this moment waiting until they think the time is ripe for them to force their entrance into the mill,” said Bob. “If they should see us walk to the build- ing in a body, that would certainly scare them off and we should have no chance at all to catch them. I think it would be better for us to remain right here and watch. We can’t fail to see them when they approach the mill, and they will be unaware of our presence. My idea is to let ~ them get into the building. Then two of us can post our- selves in front of the office and two in the rear. That will cut off their retreat. Mr. Howard, his deputy, and either _ Mr. Black or myself will then enter and overpower them while they are engaged at the safe.” ___ Bob’s proposition was voted the most prudent and effect- ive plan for capturing the crooks, and was decided on. The seven stretched themselves out on the ground and awaited developments. _ Nothing happened to break the monotony of their watch _ for nearly two hours, ‘and the party were showing signs of impatience when Joe suddenly called attention to two fig- ures slouching from the wood in the rear of the mill. . _ “Here they come now,” he said, in a tone of suppressed F: excitement, ‘and in an instant the seven watchers were on the alert ready for business, : ; ‘The rascals carried each a good-sized grip in his right hand, and they drew near the mill with some caution. - __ Finally they halted and held’ a consultation; then one, leaving his bag with his companion, advanced and pro- ceeded to reconnoiter the office through the windows. _. After a time he made some sign to his confederate and the other came forward. They halted at the employees’ entrance r, which he effected without much trouble. their grips with them, they disappeared inside ng. ie the rusian me of them producing a jimmy proceeded to force the at the rear of the building, while the two officers, with drawn revolvers, accompanied by Bob, entered by the em- ployees’ entrance. pike With great caution they made their way through the ~ lower floor to the door communicating with the office, ~ which was shut. ce Constable Howatd turned the knob, opened the door an — inch or two, and looked in. The two crooks were at work on the safe. .Throwing the door wide open, the three rushed inside, the two officers covering the. rascals with their revolvers. ee “Throw up your hands or we'll perforate you on the _ spot !”? cried Constable Howard, sternly. Jackson and Billings, taken by surprise, looked into the frowning muzzles of the weapons and, realizing that the — game was-.up, sullenly yielded. : “Take my revolver and cover that scamp nearest the safe,” said the chief constable to Bob. aS Then the officer, who was a six-footer and wore a very — determined look, walked forward and handcuffed the rascals together. ages Mea Ts “Turn out their pockets,” said Bob. “‘I want my fathers ~ $1,200.” | | es Nearly $900 was found on each of the prisoners, and the — constable took charge of it. _ gage Bob then learned that his father would not be able to get his money untilafter the crooks were tried at Chester. — “T will turn the money and the two grips over to th court, where they will remain until the case against these” chaps has been decided. ‘Then your-father can put in his: claim for his $1,200, accompanied by your sworn state- ment of the circumstances. I should also ad¥ise you to— get an affidavit from the fireman who stole the pockethoo: from your father, if he hasn’t made himself scarce to avoid jarrest for the theft. Now, gentlemen, we'll march our prisoners to the lock-up. You boys. can spend the night — {at the inn. You will have to give your evidence befor the justice in the morning. In order that your paren may leatn where you are, for doubtless they are gre: worried over your disappearance by this time, Pll te phone to the Westgate police and ask them to notify you people that you are both safe here in Riverdale.” = | The watchman was found bound and gagged under : table in the office, and was liberated. Ne tae ‘Then the entire party took up its line of march village. me Oe hayes f- ¢ for he ; : CHAPTER IX. K ‘ SBE (eh Pa ae re BOB AND JOE RETURN TO WESTLAKE.

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FIRST IN THE FIELD. < 15 - The mill owner expressed the obligation he felt under to the lads, especially Bob, whom he recognized as the leading spirit of the affair, and assured them that he would testify his appreciation in a substantial way. Bob replied that as far as he was concerned he was not — looking for any reward for doing what he regarded ‘as his ‘plain duty, especially as he had had a strong personal in- terest on behalf of his father in securing the capture of . the crooks. es “But I have no doubt you would have been just as _ eager to warn me last night even if.you had had no per- ~ sonal interest in the arrest of the thieves,” said Mr. Graham. ; “That’s quite true, sir,” admitted Bob. The boys politely refused an invitation to remain to © dinner, and then Mr. Graham had his coachman take them - back to Westlake in his automobile. Before they left Bob promised Gertie that ‘he would come over soon and pay her a visit, and Joe told Miss Bettie that he would try and do the same. _ The parents of both ‘boys; although their anxiety over | their unexplained absence had been relieved the preceding night by Constable Howard through the Westlake police department, were much mystified as to a object that had taken their sons to Riverdale. “Why, Bob, what in the name of aia took you and Joe Craig to Riverdale?” exclaimed his mother when he entered the cottage. “Important business, mother, although we did not ex- actly go most of the way of our owm free will,” he an~ swered,.smilingly. “We heard that you and Joe saved the cottage of ‘Steve Fowler from burning down, and also the lives of his ike ) children.” ; “That's right, mother.” “And they say Steve was there himself at the time.” “He was, mother.” : “And what about your father’s money that Steve stole? Couldn’t you get him to give it up after what you did?” “No, mother. As soon as the ‘fire was out he started to make off, before Joe and I could corner him ; then—but Pll teil you the whole story from start to finish, and then yowll understand better’ how things stand. Where's fa- ther ?” eS “He hasn’t got home yet. I expect he’s gone over. oe the police office to see if any word has ieen received about Steve.” se: “Te can let Steve go now. The haat hasn’t got the Ig money.” | i at ' “Hasn’t got the money! What do you: rahi? Did you Be succeed in getting it away from him?” ction pene eal interested i in i 08, 80 0 the four} “Not exactly, mother; but I think father om have ‘no _ le seemed well paired. ‘| trouble in recovering it, ‘tor it is now in the mee of the intention of vetuming: to ‘West- Chester police.” ; Set 1 prolonged their stay. “Then Steve has been seated? aa is nd eae asm cas ia from = ue that I ie ot apiste bat sae lists their own behalf, and were remanded by the justice for e Arial at Chester at the next term of the court. - Constable Howard communicated with the Chester police < "and ascertained that the home of the president of the Chester Bank had recently been broken into and $5,000 worth of jewelry and about $600 in money stolen. A reward of $500 had been offered by the banker for iiiformation leading to the arrest and conviction of the - thieves. A description of the jewelry furnished by the Chester - authorities tallied with the contents of the grips taken _ from Jackson and Billings, and left no doubt in the mind of the constable that the men he had captured were the rascals who had robbed the banker’s home. He notified the Chester police to that effect and claimed : the reward in behalf of Bob Channing and his friend, Joe Craig. Miss Graham, who attended the examination of the crooks at the justice’s office, invited Bob and Joe % return to her father’s home with her and take lunch previous to their departure for Westlake. + The invitation was accepted. Miss Gertie paid especial attention to Bob, to whom it was evident she had taken a fancy, and that young man. net her advances more than half way. During lunch Bob spoke about the boom that appeared ie have aired the village, and remarked that Riverdale was likely soon*to become a lively place. ‘Gertie coincided with him, and in the course of the con- ersation mentioned the fact that her father was about to stabtish a bank in the village. When she learned that Bob and Joe, at the end of their acation, were going to look up situations for themselves, ty she said that she was sure her father would be pleased to give them an opening in Hbs bank if they. would come to iverdale. | - The boys said they would pedal an offer of that kind Mir. Graham made it to them, but Bob added that he would rather go into business on has own account if it were ossible for him to get a start. Gertie wanted to know what kind of business attracted , and he told her what his es were if he was in a}. n. to carry them out, Sh as pete narly interested i in his eclisins, ee aid yy

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ag FIRST IN THE FIELD, growing out of his. effort. to ‘Biectaike Steve Fowler and get his father’s money back. ‘He had about finished. hig.narration when his father ~ came in, an hour Jater than his customary time. “Well, young man,” said Mr. Channing, gloomily, “what cover the money he had almost given up as lost to him forever.” i “Bob,” he said, with emotion, “the next hundred dollats aa I save shall be yours as a nest egg for your future.” > | “Thank you, father. Mr. Graham has promised to give. ‘ have you to say for Woarcele? ? What took you*to Riverdale, | me—and Joe, of course, too—something for saving the — father,” replied Bob. ~The police have not found any trace of Steve Fowler—the| I’m likely to have a little capital before long.” _ the fire where it has been reported that you saved his cot- said, turning to his wife. | : as “T do.” '. chief of our police told me less than half an hour ago that} in the village in a little while, and I’m almost certain. of "said Bob. Ta son. Be between bites Bob went, all over his adventures again. tight up to the point where Bob: detailed ‘the sees of ‘with Joe Craig, yesterday afternoon, and kept you there} mill from being robbed ; and Constable Howard, of River-~ ‘the greater, part of to-day ?” dale, said that we are entitled to the $500 reward offered ” “An effort to recover your money was the cause of it,} for the capture of the thieves who robbed the residente of Mr. Baldwin, president of the Chester Bank. He said he “T suppose I needn’t ask you what luck you've had?| put in a claim for it in our names. So you see, father, — rascal !—g0 it’s hardly to be:supposed that you discovered} “You are richly entitled to every cent you get in cons A any trace of him, after letting him get away from you at] nection with this affair. Don’t you think so, Clara?” he S tage and the lives of three of his children.” «] do, indeed, Richard,” she answered, beaming on n her is “You needn’t worry about Steve any more,” replied} stalwart boy. Bob. “Father,” said Bob, after a pause, “I wish you ina: “Why not?” asked his father, sharply. see youg way to moving to Riverdale. You might be able “Because your money js out of his hands.” to get charge of the Spenerocm. of one of the new mills a ae Bs Explain yourself, ‘Do you know where my|at more money than you're getting here.” money is?” “Why?” asked Mr. Channing, in some surprise. = “Well, father, as I’ve got to get out and hustle i “Where is it! Dm “In the hands of the Chester mais department.” “Then Steve was arrested in Chester? Funny that the ahead in Paheeiale than here.” “What makes you think so?” ; “Several reasons. Mr. Graham is going to start a bank , Steve had not been heard of.” a position there if I will take it.” “Steve was not arrested in Chester.” “Did he make you an offer?” “Then what do you mean by saying that the Chester] “No, but his daughter Gertie said that: she was sneer a: have my aur How ne they have it un-| father ‘would give me an opening if I asked for it.” 7 ess——? “A position in a bank would be better than anything “Let me tell you my pic and then you'll understand,” I could get for you here. You had better apply for it | You could come home once a wéek, at any rate.” * : “J don’t know that I should like to have Bob away from us,” objected Mrs. Corinne with es ‘soli tude. “My dear, the hoy’h: future must be considered” jall, whatever sacrifice -we may. be. ane on. to make fo: benetit, ” said the engineer. — ? “Then you have no objection : is my going to River said Bob, whose ambitious thoughts: were “mingled | recollection of Miss Gertie’s bright eyes. ” ame “Not if it will be to oe eth riig my son, Ti is en at from here. SECA gy “Go ahead »” said Mr. ee looking hard at his ‘ “Supper i is ready,” said Mrs. Channing at this point. | - Bob and his father drew their, chairs up to the table, and - Mr. Channing listened with interest and growing ex- pectation: as the narrative developed. He grew quite excited at the point where Bob decribed the knocking-out of Steve Fowler by the two crooks, and | ‘their taking. possession of his money, _ From that point on Mr. Channing showed eager attention t the two rascals at the mill. PEs alton eae py 3 Then: Bob | told him what Constable Howard had said | of hee about the disposition of the money: and valuables me pleted. Mr. Graham, I oy \- ae ane you rom the two crooks. "| engineer to one Pagage! ey wan * to hire you | “You'd better write to the ‘Chilton authorities at once ihe ey bold moa f ae ety md put in your claim. Tl write out a statement, show- | Bob’s suggestion ag how the crooks got your ‘money into their hands, and | Who was evidently in fa e a notary. . You can send} seemed likely that: he a i] comes off, mf oe and | ete will think about it, to ey, and that eee way. fe Meg gee ne

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FIRST CHAPTER X. PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE. ‘ “Then you really have made up your mind to ask Mr. Graham. for a job in his bank?” said Joe. “Well, to tell the truth, Joe, I’d rather go into business for myself; but as T am not sure that I can’ do that, a position in “the Riverdale Bank would be better than any- : Bons else I know of.” », _ “T mean to ask my father if he'll let me go to Riverdale, too. If he will, you can put in my application with yours ‘to Mr. Graham. You stand better with him than I, for 2 you were really the whole thing last night.” - “Allright,” replied Bob. “It would be tne 16 have you __ there, for we could room together and be together after working hours.” “Sure. Then we could call on Miss Graham and Miss Ret: They’re nice girls, don’t you think?” _ “Bet your life they are, but I like Miss Gertie best.” <1 “Pm. glad aoe do, for Miss Rowe takes my eye,” grinned Derg “That settles it. There is no danger of our 2 Spa ae be the slightest, old man. _» The boys talked an hour longer about their prospects in Ri erdale, and then Bob went home. About a week later Bob received an invitation from Mr. Graham to come to Riverdale and ‘stay overnight. ‘The mill owner said his auto would meet Bob at the entery ille station on the arrival of a certain train. It was about eleven miles by rail from Westlake to Cen- ie minutes. ob. was tickled to death at the chance to meet Gertie ‘@ ar so he a his “par ee that, en their a at Centerville 1 ore was” surprised and Graham seated i in the ‘auto. h é ae i fe ‘best clothes, d sa ted his best am ‘services in return for his instruction and- adv? Q IN THE rville, and the local train covered the distance i in twenty- | | to open up?” ae jis built.” l eink to. the company, bat q have a vio! al * OEE PE ea nates ete Cees EER RI eae SEE TARE = A = FIELD. you are entitled to the chief recognition. I have therefore decided to give you $500, and your friend Craig $100. mee Here are the checks on the Centerville Bank.” “T don’t think I am entitled to so much,” replied Bob, looking at the check to his order, and feebhe a certain delicacy about accepting it. “Allow me to judge of that, my boy, » ciety oi the vil owner, “Put them in your pocket e Bob put the three checks away. “The next question is, do you want a position in ae bank?” said Mr. Graham. “T should like it very much, sir, ieee “What is the proviso?” : “T think I should prefer to start a ‘certain business in | this place if, in your opinion, you saw no great obstacles. to my ultimate success.” cs “My daughter spoke to me aborts that. your views on the subject.” i Bob accordingly submi tted his idleas on the matter nearest his heart. <o He told the mill owner what kind, of business he wanted ea to engage in, where he desired to establish bonis ant just how he proposed to conduct it. ~ “Of course, I’m handicapped by lack of experience, ‘but Charley Brown, who runs a similar and successful business _ in Westlake, has promised to coach me as well as he can is if I should manage to embark in it. Defecl it in my bones that with a fair show I’ll make a success of it. Now that — Riverdale promises to be a place of no little importance, 1. ‘i 3 want to be the first in the field in my chosen ling? a2 3 Mr. Graham was much/impressed by his. schihsiag and the evident energy of his character. - SY He saw that the boy’s business ideas were good ones, and Phi that really all he needed was the experience. | », 3 He decided eae and there Sg help Bob achieve his a object. any a He would give him the benefit of his influence th the. ie ”| village, and would back him if the little capital: he had + now secured was not sufficient to give him a proper start, Bet “Well, Bob,” he said, “I) think pretty well: of your — Aree and I pledge you my support. When do yore want ‘th Let me have .- “ As soon as tfie riod is finished ‘and the new station “That will be within about three months, 1 ine? present. indications. In the meantime ‘I suppose you will start in with your friend Brown and learn ist Lege can about the business?” “That's: just what I mean to do. vo “An excellent aie sate ae the ei intend to put up a building aa it with ne oe for none a al

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18 ', FIRST IN THE FIELD. “But do you think T’ll be able to stand the rent at the - start?” _ “Don’t worry about the rent. We will speak of tlvat later. The main point at issue at present is to give you the chance to establish vourself. There is no regular sta- tionery and periodical store in Riverdale as yet, so you will be the first in the field, as you desire. Your general ideas for drawing custom are good, and I think with your energy and perseverance you will get along. Of course, ~.. you will have wp-hill work at the start, as the village is a small one as yet, but there will be a great change inside of six months, Four manufacturing ‘establishments are going to-be erected and put into operation within that time, and they will employ, I understand, about 2,000 people who will have to live here. I shall have to enlarge my own mills, and hire more help, to keep abreast of the orders that are coming in. AlJl things considered, I don’t think you could start out for yourself under more encouraging aus- pices.” Bob fully agreed with. the genial mill owner, and thanked _him for the interest he was showing in his behalf. “Don’t mention it, Bob. I have taken a liking for you, and want to give you a boost.” Bob then thought of Joe, and asked Mr. Graham if he would give his friend, a position in the bank. “T will, if only to oblige you. Tet _ _me have his name and address, a Bob gave it to him, and then began to speak about hay- ing his parents move to Riverdale from Westlake. “Do you think you could get my father the position as ss % engineer in one of the new mills he asked. _ “T think I made your father an offer myself when I first started my mill,” said Mr. Graham, “but he did not care : to accept it.” E y and expected to remain there permanently.” place if, he wanted to make a change.” ; does. ” to hire another engineer in place of the man I have. so, [ will make your father an offer.” “Thank you, sir.’ I will tell him.” “That was because he had bought a cottage in Westlake “TI dare say he would have little trouble in selling his - “That's what I told him. At any rate, mother wishes to come here a I do, and she can’t come unless father “Well, Bob, it is. ; possible that I may -find it necessary If After some further conversation they adjourned to the parlor, where Mrs. Graham and Miss Gertie awaited them. ertie ‘played. on. the piano and ; ve for Bob, and then} x | business go that he could take hold of his own p | he opened it. up, with some degree of confidence. | aa he kyon. a whole lot about the business CHAPTER XI. + FIRST IN THE FIELD. After. supper that evening Bob went around to Joe’s house. : “See what I’ve brought you,” he said to his chum, tole Sey ing up the $100 check. j Joe grabbed it. , 3 “One hundred dollars, payable to the order of Joseph ~ Oraig,” he said. “Gee! that looks good.” vit “Sure it does; but this looks better,” replied Bob, show- Bs ing Mr. Baldwin’s $500 check. “Half of this I'm going to turn over to you after I’ve got it cashed.” “Why, thatewill be $350. Tl be rich.” “Mr. Graham gave me $500, which plus $250 makes $750. That will be enough, I guess, to start me in busi- ness,” said Bob. “Then you’ve made up your mind to 74 in business for ig yourself ?”” > “T have. It’s all decided as far as I am concerned. — Mr. Graham offered me a position in his bank, but I told him to give it to you, and he’s going to do it.” es “T haven’t spoken to my folks about it yet,” said Joe. eS “T don’t know how they will take to the idea of my going” to Riverdale.” “Don’t say anything to them until you get Mr. Graham’ ie offer, then spring that on them.” ee “That’s what I'll do. I don’t see how they can shjadbe nie to me taking a job in a bank. It nyt every fellow an ‘such a chance.” Bob then told his chum the general particulars i in cons nection with his own business arrangements. hs “You’re right in it, old man,” said Joe. “You nie Mr. Graham at your’ back, and he’s the most importan man in Riverdale. How do your folks like the idea of you going into business in the village?” “They raised no great objection when I told them whites Mr. Graham promised to do for me. . They'll Para aye move to Riverdale themselves before long.” “T wish my folks would do the same, but there’s vite chance of that, as my father is anchored here.” — ; “Come, let’s go down to Brown’s store,” said Bob; e want to have a serious talk with him.” | Joe was willing, and so they started for the principal. te business street of Westgate, and soon reached Cbaalege ae stationery and periodical store. ; While Bob talked business with the proprio, J a oh Ke a over the latest illustrated papers. Brown agreed to let Bob assist him at his ae freturn for his services promised to post him = Gs Bob started in next morning, and before ot such tok ea

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ia FIRST IN THE FIELD. sie | ee ee ‘began ts suffer any Se aes owing to the loss of his income. Max found it necessary to ee a hustle on, and he got a steady job; but he had such a dislike for work that it was a problem how long he would keep busy. Two weeks later Bob’s store was ready for him to take possession of, so he went to Chester to make his final ar- tangements for opening up. 9 Joe, who had accepted, with his parents’ consent, a a clerk ship in the Riverdale Bank, which was chartered but not yet ready for business, went & the village to help Bob get his store into shape. When his stock and fixtures arrived they both worked : like beavers displaying things to the best advantage. While they were thus eagogel the Post-office was moved - in next door. pis. ‘Bob had given an order to the village painter for a ont jecting swinging sign, to go over the door, reading on both — sides, “Robert Channing, Stationer and Newsdealer. Ci- gars and Tobacco, » and the painter and his assistant were . putting it in place when Gertie Graham-and Bettie Martin ee appeared and walked into the new store. a The boys paused long enough to welcome their dota, eet “What do you think of the store as far as we’ve gone?” asked Bob, regarding the half-filled shelves with a certain degree of pride and satisfaction. ah a] think it’s going to be the most attractive store in Riverdale,” replied Miss Gertie, enthusiastically, and Miss Bettie coincided with her, Sas “T wish I had an interest in it?” aid wi stile ie who, now that the establishment was an actual fact, re- garded the enter prise’ with different eyes than he did when eee it had been merely in contemplation. Soe “Well, don’t you take an interest in. it?” asked Battie, nen with dancing eyes. oy ““Of course I take an interest in it,” replied Toa stoutly; cane “but I mean I’d like to be Bob’s partner, ” eiaeN “Maybe you will be one of these days, old man,” epoke oes up Bob. “When business grows. so that I can’t handle it myself, and there’s enough in it for two, then we'll talk Be about coming together.” “Well, I hope that time will come soon. As Pm. going to be your general assistant after I get through at the bank ? every day, I’ll soon have the business down as fine as yourself.” ota “Which of you arranged those show cases ?” asked Gertie, , “T fixed up this one and Joe spread himself on that. They look all;right, don’t they ?” said Bob. ie “Splendid !” exclaimed both the girls in a breath |. Bettie seemed to take the greater interest in Si ys while Gertie had eyes only for the case that arranged. ~ “Yon have good taste, Bob,” she said, enthusi ir| She had come to. call him Bob ‘by this Ry | called her Gertie, ae ; | he same Aehie nAS existed ies : “ signed to him would be practically landed at his door, thus -. saving him time and trouble. ; Bob learned that some periodicals and paper-covered “hooks were returnable if not sold, while others were likely ~* to become dead stock on his hands if not disposed of before the succeeding issue came out to the public. : He found that he would have to keep a standing deposit _ with the wholesaler to cover his standing orders unless he . got some one to guarantee a certain ck are of credit = for him, At the end of a month he ai Riverdale to see how things were coming on there. _ _He found that the railroad station was in the hands: of * the carpenters, and that Mr. neg ‘was. putting. up his . P adiding as fast as possible. ; Both were expected to be completed about the same ithe, loss 5 ivsit . The foundations for two of the big factories had been _. started, while surveys had been made for the others, Si » Ground was being cleared and leveled for 100 small cot- - tages that were soon to be erected. for the working people and their families who before long: would be attracted or ‘ brought to ‘the village. _. Other cottages were being built j in different parts of the. village within easy reach of the sites of the new fac- tories. A new and testes schoolhouse ne heen ‘planned for arly erection, and many. other Sees were under _. way in, the village, eae % Altogether, the place was ‘Deginning to wear a prosper- yus look that was encouraging to Bob. On the following week he and Joe liad to go Chester to _ appear at the trial of Jackson and Billings. ‘ The police had got the rascals’ records from Chicago, E where they were well known to, the city detectives. Their defence counted for nels and. ists was rey, secured. — They were sentenced to! ‘several years in the State m. eas ile in Chester, Bob vvieifed: the Slinkeale: acenk who lied Brown, and had a business talk with him. dealer was. very glad to secure another customer, cha Bob in. every, way: he could. we | me e score suggestions aad the iy tought : eee to him. ;

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20 FIRST _ ii their opinion would add to the general effect, and Bob was quick to see how much better their judgment was in matters of display than either his or Joe’s, TE “T shall expect you to drop in quite often and lend me the aid of your critical eye, Gertie,” said Bob, as he made an alteration she had pointed out which made quite a dif- ference in the look of one shelf. “T sha’n’t fail to call when I’m down town,” she replied, langhingly. “Tt will be so nice to stop for a glass of soda when the weather is warm.” ' “Pm sorry the fountain isn’t in commission yet, or I’d treat you to all you could drink.” “Youre very good, but Vl take the will for the deed. When are you going to dress your window ?” “As soon, as the painter has put my name and business on the glass.” “What are you going to put in ite” >. “ASgeneral display of. what I have in stock so that folks can get an insight into what I have on hand by looking the awindow over.” _ At that moment Joe opened up a big package and Bettie, wh® was standing beside him, uttered an exclamation of delight. “Gertie,” she cried, oe “d6 come here and look at these . lovely picture post-cards, I never saw such a nice asgort- gy ment)before, Can’t I buy a few of them now?” she added to Joe, in an eager tone. gee “The store isn’t open for business yet, but I guess Bob will be glad to accommodate you,” replied Craig, Gertie walked over and admired the selection of cards : greatly. _ She wanted some herself, too. ; Both girls then asked Bob the prices of the Drie, and he said five cents each. ~ Gertie. “Sure I will,” replied Bob, “Then, give me twenty of those cards, assorted,” she said, a ‘Opening: her wallet and tendering the young storekeeper a dollar bill. : . Pick them out yourself, Gertie,” a ‘ie said. . ; “know what I’m going to do with this bill?” €Put it in your cash drawer, of course,” she answered, Janghingly. ‘ “Do von ot Mage to frame it, and keep it, ares as a@ remem- r me, do storekeepers always do. that for luck ?” she ot aay ie. I want you to be my*mascot. Will you?” en apt! IN THE FIELD. _ “You'll let me make the first purchase, won't you?” said and evenitig: and “Joe ‘remained with him till’ noo | next day, when he had to return to Westlake. ‘accounted for the rush of trade on the jfirst day. _ “Not a bit of it. This is the very first money I’ve ey Reet that he had about what earls wanted, and to my knowledge, bub 'm going sto ao it just the My hurt his business in this side line. of au will, and I ws He ae. > eee the new shop, he was ee oe as ‘the es business, and buy some of the current papers and ‘magazines which the boys hadn’t yet got out of their packages. 5 Before the young ladies took their departure, Bob showed — them: the two rooms in the rear of the store which had al- ready been fitted up as a bedroom and sitting-room for ~» the accommodation of Joe and himself. ae8 “This is where we’re going to live, We've got an oil stove and a supply of dishes and cooking utensils in this \ closet,” and he opened the door and showed the girls. “When we don’t care to go out to a restaurant we'll cook , ~ our own meals. T’ll have to get up my lunch here anyway, as I won’t be able to get away in the middle of the day.” “You boys will have a fine time together,” said Gertie. — “T wish I was a boy: a “Tm glad you’re not,” replied Bob. you half so much if you were.” Gertie blushed and laughed, and then the two girls left. At three o’clock that afternoon the store was all ready for the public, so Bob opened the door, and to the bottom — of the swinging sign that projected from over the door he attached a temporary cloth banner on which were painted — the words: “OPEN FOR BUSINESS—Walk In and Look Around.” Out at the edge of the curb Joe placed a wooden sign, painted alike on both sides as follows: “Soda Water—All - Flavors. Ginger Ale, Sarsaparilla, Cream Soda. Five Cents a Glass.” — “Now I’m ready to do business for myself, ” sid Bob, with supreme satisfaction. “T shouldn’t like / HAPTER XIE. ~ BOUNCED. - Bob did quite a little business the phen afternoon ah Mr. Graham came in, looked his place over with an proving eye, and bought some papers and magazines. — People who came to the post-office for their mail he in, and most of them made purchases. : ‘A new thing always attracts attention at first, and this ; People: hung around and talked with him, as is: tei in a country village, and he took advantage fact to advertise his stock in trade, and to let th ae aie like his advent in the cae a little bit, fo it t But as the pharmacist couldn’t very

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-eustom for him among ce friends, and they knew every- body in Riverdale worth mentioning. , Bob distributed a batch of his circulars in Graham’s Mill, “and called especial attention among the men to his to- bacco stock. ; In the meantime the railroad station was completed, and “a morning and evening train, consisting of a locomotive, ae a: baggage car, and one coach, was inaugurated between Ke Riverdale and Centerville on the main line. » -. Work was pushed on the new factories and on the other Bey with great interest. _ About this time the bank opened wp, the building having been completed within a short distance of Bob’s store, and _then Joe came to stay with him permanently. * Fourth of July was now at hand, and Bob got in a good stock of firecrackers and other articles of a like nature so vale to the average boy’s heart, and soon had all the village iy is i heraa in ue direction of. his store. . é m other j Gapat tant residents of the village. ; The result was that Riverdale promised to do itself oon cate the Glorious Fourth passed oe, ‘oblivion Mr. G abam. decided that he must have a new engineer, so he taade ‘another offer to Mr. Channing, which was accepted “ this. time, and he and his. wife moved t6 one of the new cottages. that had been erected i in the village. — 1is money, with his savings, Soa og him to buy the Riverdale cottage. rough for the day at the bank, he said: re said Bob, ih Hain , ie et little Nannie Fowler, the oa you saved nt to death, outside the bank a few minutes rat her mother has ees to work for. Mr. fax. FIRST IN THE FIELD. buildings, and Bob watched their progress toward com-’ a3 tn the way of fiery display in honor of tagepeHcencs ip jaunt wanted another box of initialed See OME like the 58 e found little trouble in disposing of his interest in| | his Wes ake property for an advance on what he gave for |. gh ne afternoon, when Joe walked into the siore after he you | wie have” oe ‘to the village a a itsente ey bundle of tobacco up at the mill?” asked Bob. ape list is on the outside.” “Sure I'll deliver it,” said Joe. Oo ‘ es “You can go around and get any additional orders the e -men want to send. There are two late magazines in the bundle also—one for Foreman Jinks and the other goes to Mr. Richards, the head bookkkeeper.” “All right,” said Joe, grabbing the hundle and starting i off with it on his bicycle, which e got from the rear no ie : the store. He hadn’t been gone ten minutes before Gertie Graham and her chum Bettie came in. , “Good afternoon, Gertie and Miss Bettie,” aie Bob i coming from behind the counter. “Good afternoon, Bob,” said both young ladies. “Lovely day for a stroll up. Main Street,” grinned Bob. “Charming, but rather warm,” replied Gertie. “I ‘owe ° Bettie a treat, and so we have come in here to” get a cream | soda each.””’ “Tt will give me a great deal of pleasure to wait on n you, said Bob, going over to the little soda water counter. “I keep a good supply of ice on hand, so I ¢an ae you a nice cool drink.” He prepared them two glasses of the beverage. They stood and talked a while and then Bettie said fae last she had got from him. “T guess’ I've got another box with the lettor ‘H, » said Bob, starting for the counter, Gertie’s <i name. being arts Hogan, wife « of the justice. 4 tage At that moment a newcomer entered | the store. . ‘It was Max Fowler. Bob wasn’t at all ies to gee hie but that. fact didnt bother Max. ye “So this is your old store, is it? cataithes was ina’ disagreeable way. “Gone info business for ene eh? | Don’t you want a clerk?” S “No, I don’t want a clerk, Max Fowler ; ‘aa a ‘f aia, . ie shouldn't hire you. ” s \ “Why wouldn’t you?” snarled the son of Stew, a x; ae : “Because I rower tee 2, “You re puttin’ on a lot, of airs, ain’t you, “eanse are your own boss. Well, you ain’t so much.” “T don’t want to talk to you, Max Fowler. You didn’t ‘come in here to buy anything, so you might as Baa get. ““T don’t sell cigarettes to boys,” replied Bob, coldly. “Ob; you don’t,” sneered Max. “What are yo you as but a boy, and a pretty elec one bei the Are you. oin’ to wait.on me or ain’ t yout” ROS Lee “Pm not anxious to sell you anything: me LE _ befor Y shy rs do you know T didn’t come to buy. “apnea ‘a % to get st Here give me a couple ‘of cigarettes: for a penny, and look ms awe about it.”

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“Took here, Max Fowler; I don’t want any trouble with you,” said Bob, suddenly turning on his unwelcome visitor with a resolute air that meant business, “but if you don’t go peacefully, Pll have to put you out.” “Put me out, will you?” cried Max, defiantly. “I don’t _ think you will. If you give me any of your sass, Pll clean you and your old store out together.” He began to roll up his sleeves, and the girls looked came in this morning. You are welcome to examine them. — I will show them to you.” Bob also called their attention to his stationery and other things that he thought might interest them, with the result that the ladies, who had only come in*to get the soda, made ~~ several purchases, .and departed quite charmed by his po- liteness and obliging manner. ; He had done even better, for in a small place like 92° (FIRST IN THE FIELD. . ES oe : frightened. Riverdale these ladies were bound to advertise him and his “Are you going to get out?” asked the young store-| store among their friends, though by this time about every- - keeper, determinedly. , body in the village knew that there was a first-class sta- “No, I’m not, till I’ve licked you, see?” Bob suddenly ‘grabbed Max Fowler by the neck pe back and exclaimed: “Now, then, twenty-three for you! March —one, two, three!” ‘The third step landed Fowler on the threshold of the _ shop, and a push completed his ignominious exit. He slid out on to the sidewalk and; to the great amuse- ment. of several village boys who had been looking in at the window, he came down on the hard flagging with a thump that rattled his teeth and shook him up to a considérable + hextent. He got up, shook his fist back at Bob, and without mak- ing any effort to return, slouched off down the street as mad as a hornet, and swearing vengeance against the boy who had only handed him what he deserved. “That's the way I treat chaps of his stamp,” said Bob, walking behind the counter and reaching for the boxes of initialed stationery. tionery and news shop next to the post-office at the station. _ Soon after the ladies left, Gertie and Bettie went away, — and then other customers dropped in and were waited on ‘| by Joe while Bob took his wheel and went on a spin up the road to take a look at the new factories that were al? most ready by this time to begin business. During the next few weeks Riverdale made a consider- able addition to its population, for the banish one by one opened up for business. | One morning, when Bob opened up his store at seven ¥ o’clock, he was surprised to see a sheet of paper plastered against the door. It contained the following words, ete, scrawled, half printed, half written: afi “Bob Channing BEWAIRE! Yow’re goin to ait HURT, and WORSE before tomorrer night. You’re NO GOOD. You’ve got A BUM SHOP and will have to GO, We don’t want you in this place no more, SEE! So SKE: DADDLE or TAKE THE CONSEQUENCES. ; ; “The vigilance committee.” CHAPTER XIII. IN THE HANDS OF HIS ENEMY. “Here is a letter H box,” said Bob, opening it. and _ showing Bettie that the paper and envelopes were just what __ she wanted. “Now come over to the fountain and let me treat you er TO soda,” said Bob. “Oh, dear, you mustn’t be giving away your profits in that way,” sai Gertie, ‘ar “Never mind the profits, Gertie. The pleasure of you _ young: ladies’ company is worth more than the soda.” “You say that real tice, Bob,” laughed Gertie. “After ‘that, I suppose we'll have to accept the treat.” a P They adjourned to the soda fountain just as Joe came ack. _ “Step up, Joe, and have a, drink,” said Bob. - “T don’t care if I do,” replied Craig, greeting the girls n his usual cheery style, and smiling his sweetest at Bettie, ho reciprocated. ‘0. ladies came in for a soda at that ‘moment and Joe Bob read the strange “warning” and then carried it ins to show it to Joe. “What do you think of that? I found it stuck on the door outside.” Joe read and grinned. genie. “There’s-only one chap in the village who moa te guilty of such a piece of tomfoolery, and that’s Mas Fowler,” said Bob. “That's right,” nodded Joe. “Tt’s ca like him.” “He’s down on me like a carload of bricks since T bounce him from the store. Ay “S’pose he is. He wouldn’t dare iy to injure ‘ett “It’s impossible to say what he might not try to do i he worked oh reg up to it,” replied J ‘oe; Aen oleg our Hexihice eyes lifting in case he should be Poti rascality.” te That evening Joe went to ‘call on Bettie he remained at her house until quarter-past ten. Bob closed up the store at half-past Bes and went : Fs fior drinking hers. “Thank you, ma’am; I try to ue the best.” a ride on his wheel. like it ever so much better than what I’ve been ac-| He stopped at Mr. Graham's and spent an phate or. 10 med to get ‘at the amnesia, I as ae aie come | with Gertie: ee PyipRa ES 5 ek em | On his way back ae wheel struck an inn ou like to look over the rigaii, ladies? tion, which happened to be a stout cord. sb 4 liged to buy | oe ae tei ae th anc Bint

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«3 fags with black cloths, pierced with eye holes, over their faces. He also discovered that his fants were bound. _ “What the dickens does this mean?” he demanded, an- grily. ' “It means that you are in the hands of the vigilance * committee,” said one of his captors. _. Those words recalled to Bob the warning he had found on the door of his store that morning. He immediately recognized the speaker as Max Fowler. “T know you, Fowler,” he said, in an aggressive tone. You'd better release me at onee or there'll be something ~ doing you won’t like.” “Huh! sneered: the spokesman, of the party. “You 3 can’t swear I’m Fowler. Ym the leader of the vigilance 3 committee, that’s who I am. We’re goin’ to run you out of the village ’cause you hain’t wanted here. The warnin’ you got said you'd git hurt and worse. You’re goin’ to be treated to a noo soot and rid on a rail, see? If you come back, more’ll happen to you. The vigilance com- mittee hain’t to be fooled with.” “Don’t imagine you can hoodwink me, Fowler,” replied Bob, in a determined tone. “I know it’s you. If you try ‘on any funny business with me, I’ll make things so hot for you that you'll wish you'd behaved yourself.” “Talk is cheap, Bob Channin’,” retorted the masked boy. ou’ll feel diff’rent pretty soon or I’m a liar. Take hold -of him, fellers, and carry him into the woods.” . -~ The ‘four grabbed Bob by the legs and arms, lifted him, and then the procession moved away toward the near-by ‘oods, into which they soon disappearéd. a alf an hour later Joe returned to the store and, finding Bob away, guessed that he had gone up the road to call on. Gertie. alf an hour and his chum did not show up. ’s eleven o'clock. I wonder where the dickens he in be keeping himself. I think Pl take a spin up the d. Maybe I’ll meet HIM tenes ‘Joe aoe his wheel. and started in the: direction of the lome. he reached the suburbs he almost ran into an object sprawled out in the middle of the highway. Dismounting, he looked at it closely. 2 it’s a bicycle. What is it doing here? And who long to? Can it be ake gar he has met with cid ent ??? ; pe it at once as his chum’ 3 es g. has ie to jites, that’s clear, ” ‘muttered | 97 x at? ‘Where i is he?” warning RoR of the bipce ocenoret] FIRST IN THE FIELD. \leave him with the warnin’ to-skedaddle. | the fire and start the tar to b’ilin’. 1-| have a smoke/ The prisoner kin say his prayers, or do the, -under the pot, while the spokesman went to a clos yanked out a pillowcase full of feathers. 93° Well, it’s me for the woods at once, on the chance of run- ning across them.” He stood both wheels up against the fence and then climbed it. - As he straddled the top rail a “bright light suddenly sprang up in the woods. Momentarily it grew brighter, as if a big fire had been: started there. ; Joe could see the flames mounting above the tops of the . trees, mingled with a volume of thick, black smoke. “There’s something unusual doing yonder,” he breathed, springing into the open space beyond the road and run- ning rapidly toward the wood. CHAPTER XIV. A THRILLING RESCUE. The four masked boys carried their prisoner through the woods to an open space where an old one-story and attie house, long since abandoned, stood. They marched straight into the open doorway of the building and deposited their burden on the floor. Then the boy Bob suspected to be Max Fowler struck a match and lighted a candle stuck in the neck of a. bottle at he picked up from one corner. Bob, looking straight before him, saw a wide, old-fash- ioned fireplace. : An iron crane swung out from one side of the brick wall of the fireplace, On this hung a big, ancient-looking iron. pot. Underneath the pot was a pile of brush and wood ready for starting a blaze. In a far corner Bob saw a rude ladder that led up to a hole in the ceiling and furnished communication vet the attic above. “Fellers,”’ said the spokesman of the party, “there hain’t no use wastin’ time holdin’ a trial over the prisoner. He’s guilty, and*that’s allethere is. to it.” “Tf you say he’s guilty, he is,” said one of the masked ‘boys. “You're bossin’ the job.” “That's the way to talk. The vigilance committee havy- in’ found him guilty, and decided that a coat of tar and feathers is the proper kind of punishment for him, we will — now proceed to carry the sentence into effect. Afterwards _ we'll ride him on a rail to the other end of the woods, and =~ Barney, light While it’s heatin’ we'll — | next thing.” ee The masked boy alluded to as Barney started the fire The others squatted on the floor in front of the y ‘produced cigarettes andsstarted to smoke. “How is the. tar?” asked MP leader ay and by. ;

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eA FIRST IN THE FIELD. “When things is ready,” said the head boy, “Ill aol. the tarrin’, see? You sie kin get busy with the feath- ers.” “Are you goin’ to fake his clothes off?” asked one of the boys. “Some of ’em. It won’t do to put it ag’in his skin, for it might kill him, and that hain’t the purpose of this here vigilance committee.” “T should say not,” spoke up one of the boys. “A lark is a lark, but it mustn’t be carried too far, or P’m out of it.” “Don’t worry, Jim. I know how. far to go and be on _ the safe side.’- Twenty minutes elapsed. “How's the tar now, Barney?” asked the leader at the -end of that interval. Barney stirred the liquid mass and announced that it ~ was in good shape. “Then take it off the fire ape let it stand on the stones _to cool a bit.” - During all this time Bob had ‘watched the Prokeedtits ats _ without saying a word. He had made a furtive but persistent effort to free his hands, but the cords held him firmly. At length the leader of the party went to the pot, stirred the tar and lifted the stick up to see how it ran. Apparently shies that it was of the gent lesa a he said: “Barney, you and Jim strip the prisoner of his trousers : and jacket and then we'll proceed to make a guy of him. ate The two boys seized Bob and lifted him to his feet. Bob, howeyer, didn’t propose to tamely submit to the proposed indignity: without a strong effort in his own ‘behalf. ~ To remove his jacket they would have to dopaen his hands, and Barney called attention to that fact. Pull his jacket down and let it hang over his hands, _ That'll do,” replied the leader. a \When Barney started to do this, Bob wrenched himself | and between them they succeed in Hislodging - _away ‘from Jim’s grasp, me. a ‘dart forward and kicked: the kettle over, | i ~The tar ran over into the fire and blazed up at once, The vigilance committee were staggered by this - unex- Fag and began i. clim se wall toward the ceilin, - flames made Sach tana feasees that “thie four young came panie-stricken and fled for the outer ir fast: Beige could go. | through, while the whole interior of the loft, as well pected happening, and at the same time unnerved by the| The man’s clothes iets now on preading fire, which soon ca on to the woodwork of | tah out of the sich kre eet ee oa minities ae fire had pte ifiee the attic ae 4 ull glow, of the ate could be Sea oe the ae fi: was, ‘ana shouted loudly in an effort io arouse ts im- % periled man. as The poor fellow, however, seemed to be utterly oblivious - rn to his danger. Bob tugged frantically at the bonds, ae the exer tion ioe zr made only served to tighten the strands around. his wrists - ‘ and make them cut into his flesh. At that moment he spied the boy called Barney, who had torn the mask from his face, and was gazing at the. man in the window in a helpless, fascinated way. es Bob dashed up to him. = “Here, you,” he cried, excitedly, “cut tHe loose, ee heaven’s sake, and let me do something to save him. ” “T haven't any knife,” palpitated the young rascal. “Put your hand in my pocket and take out mine, | Quick !”” ‘ Barney obeyed, but it seemed an teas time before te boy had managed to cut him free. By that time the flames had caught on the roof and bone if Bao a pa beige Det Sadie Sais pi a + ve ee the ground floor, was now’a blazing mass, so rapidly, had the fire seized upon the flimsy structure, . Ty h. The thick, suffocating, black smoke made by the a rolled heavenward with the tongues of flame, and po (0 at out of the door below and the window where ‘the victi lay across the sill like a log. ; Throwing aside his jacket, Bob ran up to the buildi and looked for some means of reaching the low vie from the outside. ze! There was none, so far as he could make out. ~The man seemed to be doomed. smoking fot ee heat, he yelled to Binge “Come here and help’ me get this piece of wood,” Bob’s frantic nergy infused some ‘activity into the bo: oy of timber. As soon as the piece of Shier was in jplace th .| off, while Bob shinned up the inclined surface I | key, regardless. of. the fierce heat. that assailed: I fir “terse his fat in 1 the balance. Bob reached out. ai aad

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eros te a eerste: FIRST IN THE FIELD. 25 as clearly as if it were. noonday. what would have been the ultimate result we cannot say but that Mr. Graham and his coachman appeared upon the eene at the moment Bob made his final effort at the win- dow to save the apparently doomed man. They stood for a ae aghast at the sight before their eves. Both recognized that the atiompted rescue was a catia ‘and almost foolhardy one. - Then as Bob, whom neither erage at the siete, id the man tumbled to the grass, they rushed forward, seized the two, and dragged them out of the danger zone. “Why, it’s Bob Channing !” gasped the mill owner, as he oked down at the boy. Bob made an effort to rise, partly succeeded, then with ‘moan fell back and rolled over unconscious. CHAPTER XV. CONOLUSION, ; Saad his paneer e . Graham hurriedly explained what had happened, 80 ‘as he and his man had seen the incident. ee ae that ‘man is: ‘Steve Fowler, the fireman of the tee ee ‘“ this piece of news, but ‘urgent need of medical attendance for the two GtOe- ates was too pressing to permit him to waste any time ing Joe questions about Steve. 4 doctor attend them. “Bob took the, most Gaius ces to save this man and there i is 40 telling how ey fiiay be hurt.” x ad skipped out oe sight wit the savas of the ill owner and ine coachman, and. 80. it tae for the ce ta telephone a and, while wait- rts were made to revive: Bob. 1 i and. Ger tie, wh Sac! ‘retired and were ‘root. and went curling upward, lighting up. the clearing [01 bed, the doctor leaving medicine and directions for his : Rescher and rescued lay in a position of grave peril and | young storekeeper was away. e | big pond not far from the Graham Mill. - | house, trundling an iron arrow. father again. “He seems, however, to haye turned over eare, and promising to call in the morning, : Bob was assisted to bed in the guest chamber, and Joe: agreed to stay with him during the night to. see bss he wanted for nothing. — The store remained closed for two days, at the ant of which time Bob reappeared behind’ his counter, looking rather the worse for his late experience. Steve by that time was declared to be out of danger, but - was unable to leave his bed yet a while. cat When he learned Bob had saved his life, he appeared to. be orateful, Bob had told his night’s adventure ‘to Mr, Graham and Joe. The mill owner Hotel the head constable to hunt for and arrest the boys implicated in the outrage, especially . Max Fowler. - Barney was caught and gave his pals away, so that the . other two were soon in the lock-up, where they were kept a month on prison diet and then discharged. Max, however, had taken time. by the forelock and ~ skipped out of the neighborhood. tt was years before he was heard from again, after ihe! had served several years in the i iecRiraraats of an adjacent ee \| State for theft. When the particulars of Bob’s Hows eonduct were cir- culated throughout the village, he became a very popular local personage, and his store received a big boom. af Gertie was very proud to be seen in his company after — this, and made no secret of her partiality for him. A fourth factory was opened up in Riverdale about this time, and it was reported that other interests were coming — sf to locate in the village which soon expected to he rated. as a small town. Bob ‘having secured a beaten in his line of business, there was little danger that a business rival would deem — it a profitable venture to try and cut into his trade. Is So the weeks passed away, fall merged into winter, and’ — a new and even more BRC Ge ‘year ie se ery dale. One iitiaenisbie Gertie called at the store oe see if ‘Bor 2 would go skating with her and Bettie. — ae She knew that Joe would look after the es wine the y Bob, agreed to go with her and the three ethied for oe As they passed the mill a man came out of the ‘engine- Bob saw him and remarked: ie ~ “T never thought to see Steve oo ie working with new leaf, and I hope he will stick to it.” I

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28 ~ BIRST IN THE FIELD. low tone, “for I value your good opinion more than any- thing else in the world.” His words thrilled her, but the presence of Bettie pre- vented the two from indulging in any moonshine at that moment. - "They were presently at the pond, where a scoré or more of the village lads and lassies were spinning over its glassy - surface. Bob assisted the girls to put on their skates, and then adjusted his own. For an hour they enjoyed themselves as only healthy ‘and happy young people can. “One more spin around and then we'll go home,” said Pov. “Tl give you girls ten yards start and then I’ll try ‘to catch one of you.” Gertie and Bettie agreed to this, and then, fully deter- inined that he should not catch them, for they were both splendid skaters, they started for the opposite side of the pond. Bob started after them at what he considered the proper moment, and away flew the three skaters, as fleet as birds: on the wing, _ The boy, however, could not overcome the handicap he had given them, and as they started to round the other end of the big pond they had, if anything, gained a yard or more on him, 3 Gertie looked over her shoulder and flung a little defiant laugh at him, then something happened. ‘The strap of one of her skates parted and she diverged from her course, slipped down, and glided straight into an _ air-hole in the ice. A cry of terror-burst from her lips when she paescieant her peril, but it was ee for her to, avoid it. .. Crack !—Splash ! She fell into the opening and disnppoared: . f _ Bob, with a gasp of alarm, flew to her rescue. __ “The ice was thin where she had gone in, and that made - the girl’s rescue hazardous, But Bob didn’t care. for that. He intended to save her if he lost Als own life in the attempt. rs Spe tore over the cracked surface,. looking for her to rise. The moment he saw her face appear he jumped in and | ees her, supporting her with one arm while he struck out with the other. -. The ice erumbled away as he advanced, and it looked ‘as if he would be. chilled to death before he could save her. ° >" ; «Help, however, came ‘A that Sabian: Two level-headed boys. ran up- wat pushed - bos end of a log to Bob. “T am alad you think so, Gertie,” he responded, in a my store, and I feel that you’ve brought me luck. As her head appeared above the chill water he was |’ ae hold a it, Getic, and Vil have: vm out in no a to herbal On hols seis and then reaching out and - he Arrived at the end of the pond, he tore off her skates, — and got rid of hisown in a twinkling, by which time Bettie s had hers off. f “Now we must run all the way to your house to ‘Keep up ‘our circulation,” he said to Gertie, and off they started, 4 the two girls laughing heartily at the figure they cut. q Tt was a three-quarter-of-a-mile run, A the two girls = were breathless when they arrived. a Bob rushed Gertie into the house and handed her over to her mother, and then started for the store post haste, leaving the girls to make all the explanations. ie Gertie declared to her mother that Bob had saved hate life, and Mr, and Mrs. Graham overwhelmed him with their gratitude when he called that evening to see ROW: : their daughter was. Gertie herself thanked Bob feelingly for his courage and presence of mind. | “That's. all right, Gertie,” he said, putting his arm : around her waist. “You know I couldn’t afford to lose 3 you. You know I think you are the dearest, sweetest gitl in all the world. You’ye been my mascot since I opened a Will you be my mascot always, dear? Will you ou to be my wife some day?” F “Yes,” fluttered the girl, hiding her face on his shoul der. Sa And she kept her word, as a marriage notice in Riverdale “Argus” two years later testified to. When that interesting event happened, Riverdale become a fair-sized town, and Bob the most su es all the storekeepers in the place. H Joe didn’t go into partnership with hin(ibccailve’ he pre: ferred to work for the cashiership of the bank, which h eventually succeeded to and then married the gir of heart—Bettie Martin, has recently built a handsome cottage near the. mans his father-in-law. f bie we abaiteanl: in the ques ie ‘as oy herent in him; but the fact must not be GS uae th was First IN THE pie 16 THE EN D. tears

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FAME AND FORTUNE WEEKLY. 27 “Fame and Fortune Weekly New York, Avavsr 9 1907. ° Terms to Subscribers. Single Copies One Copy Three [lonths ‘. One Copy Six It é One Copy One Year Postage Free. How To Suenp Money. f At our risk send P. O. Money Order, Check, or Registered Letter; re- 4 mittances in any other way are at your risk. .We accept Post ostage Stamps the same ascash. When sending silver wrap the coin in a separate piece of paper to avoid cutting the envelope, JWuite your name and address plainly. . Address letters to Frank Tousey, Publisher, 24 Union Sq., New York. 3 GOOD STORIES. er In 1864, at City Point, Va., while the general of the army was strolling along the wharf one day he saw a big raw- boned. teamster belaboring one of his wheel mules with a ; billet of wood and cursing him roundly. Grant quietly said, “My man, stop beating that mule.” Rawny looked round at the little, unostentatious-looking person in a plain blouse, “Say, be you driving these here mules, or be I?” and crack again went the cudgel. “Well,” said the general, “I think I have sufficient authority here to stop your cruelty to that nimal;” and, turning to the officer in charge of the train, ie ordered him to have the teamster “tied up” for twenty-four ours when he returned to camp, and report the fact to head- arters when done. The news spread rapidly from camp to amp, and there was much less mule-mauling after that. < 7 te Try the following simple experiment if you desire to obtain vivid idea of the force of atmospheric pressure: Place an 2 ordinary wooden ruler on a table in such a manner that half it will project beyond the table, then over the table and the portion of the ruler ‘thereon, lay a smooth sheet of i “Pape ' Now, if you strike the exposed part. of the ruler, it will, nine cases out of ten, break in half, and yet the - sheet of paper on the table will neither be raised nor moved the slightest’ from its position. The reason is that the mospheric pressure on the paper is more than munichent to “Wel : should say so,” replied the money-lender, visibly urprised, “and a lot more if you want it.” fo, one dollar’s enough,” was the man’s answer, as he ionive after the usual preliminaries had been gone ugh with. 9) ater in the day, the owner of the coat came back, pid awnbroker | the dollar with the legal charge of three ok his property back. ee queer CAREER: sp rting man would say. jin? said the young man. aid the man of loans, handing over the ‘coat regret-. Don’t you know you might | a At in the audience seemed very. nervy ep ; see thoroughly tne "ict. the coat around with me. I am not stopping at a hotel, be- cause I am only in town between trains. At the depot parcel room, the boy in charge wanted ten cents for checking it, so I concluded to make seven cents by letting you take care of it for me.” * It has long been the custom of tourists to toss silver pieces into the harbor waters at Honolulu for the enjoyment of watching the half naked Hawaiian boys dive for them. Not a tithe of the coins are ever caught by the deft little water dogs, and after many a year they formed a part of the newly made lands near-the railway wharf. The harbor has yielded up much of the money that has -— been sent to the bottom in this manner, through the medium. of the ‘big suction dredger which is now at work. The mud and silt on the harbor bottom is sucked up through pipes into the dredger, and is again forced through a long chain ~ of pipes to the tidewater lands near the railway wharves, where it is spread out over a large area. Natives discovered same time ago that this pipe is depositing more than ordinary silt. Coins of all metals except gold have poured out of the pipe line, and many Hawaiians have profited by their vigil there, The captain of the dredger says that for some time past his men haye known of the treasure thus being brought up from the harbor, and efforts were made to stop the silver flow from the dredger before it had a chance to get into the out- flow pipe. A box was constructed, and into this the majority of the coins sucked up have dropped and are easily got out. It is seldom that an'opening of the box has not yielded up a handful of nickels, dollars and dimes of several nations, JOKES AND JESTS. “You are very pretty,” he said to the heiress. She was a wise girl, and realized her own plainness. “I fancy,” she re- plied, “that my prettiness was inherited pits with my grand- father’s money.” : Dr. Parkhurst told the other day a good story about a | bishop. “The bishop,” he said, “likes a good cigar, and was travelling to Albany in the smoking car. A laboring man took the seat beside him, eyed his clerical garb, got a light from him and said, as he settled -back for a comfortable smoke: ‘Parson, sir?’ The bishop hesitated. Then he an- swered blandly: ‘I was once.’ ‘Ah,’ said the laboring man, ‘drink, I suppose,’ ” At a recent,club dinner one of the guests, in the course | of his speech, spoke of the value of repartee, He told of a handsome, well-dressed woman who got in a crowded street car. She had the attention of every one and soon had a seat, Turning to the donor, she said, “You're a jewel.” he replied, “I am a jeweller—I set the jewel.” Norman Hapgood, journalist and essayist, was discussing ver- acity. “Truth telling,” he said, “is not always wise or praise- worthy. Indeed, it is sometimes the reverse. “No,” eee i Thus a young — man called on a young woman early one spring morning. He — a chad his automobile along. He wanted to give the young» woman a morning spin through the country, A little girl, the young woman’s niece, answered the bell, ‘Yes, sir, said the little girl ‘That's good. Where is she?’ he went on. ‘She’s upstairs, ‘said the little girl, ‘in her nightie, looking over ane TRADES ede While waiting for the speaker at a ‘Is your auntie vis

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X 28 FAME AND FORTUNE WEEKLY. A B ARREL ae TRE ASUR He had been feverishly expecting to clear up the mystery, and enrich himself by ultimately securing the gold; but now his bright hopes were rudely crushed, and he felt that his last expectations of ever being anything but a miserable poor sailor were gone forever. - 4 A GALLANT YOUNG SAILOR BOY As the boy turned away he was startled to see Captain Ripley standing near by, intently listening to Bia that was By Paul Braddon, said. ? —- He was a short, burly man, with a sandy beard and. a ‘a . 5 face, a fiery temper, and an ugly disposition. fhe ship Jumping-Jenny was a craft of 1,500 tons burden, | To ay appearances he was as much disappointed as the boy laden with a mixed cargo, in command of Captain Ralph | ypon learning Dr. Pike disclaiming a knowledge of which one . Ripley, with a crew of fifteen men, one passenger, and WaS/of the islands the gold was buried on, and ripping out an bound from New York to Melbourne. oath, he cried: : Dick Fairday was the captain’s cabin boy—a stalwart lad of | «7 wouldn’t be surprised if yer a-lyin’ about that, Seon ye. oa , ’ ‘eighteen, with a handsome face—the penniless orphan of 4/}in go thar some d ” SY rag ay an’ git ther gold fer yerself, Dr, Pike.” sea captain, who had been in the service of the company which} «gir: you insult etiaie in eae indignantly. eran tae: Pusneing leuny, “Oh, I don’t keer a blame how yer takes it,” sneeringly said One dark, gloomy night, as the hoy stood leaning his elbows | pipley, and then he added, “fe fy kite vaoet i si a Bi upon the weather bulwarks gazing thoughtfully out over the | anq hissing: “An’ by ther, arch fiend, man if yer do know HY dismal waters, the passenger referred to strode up to the boy | whar it is, I'll have it outen' yer afore this ‘ere v'yage is over, _ and tapped him on the back. an’ don’t yer fergit it!” ; He was a tall, thin man, wearing spectacles and side whis- “It ig very evident,” gaid the oobor with dignity, “that you ‘ * kers,-and was known as Dr. Hiram Pike, who had served | forget that you are threatening a passenger, and not one of many years as a ship’s surgeon, but now was on his way t0| your crew. It is, moreover, very apparent that you are anx- Australia to take a position as head of a medical institute. ious to learn where the treasure lies buried, in order to oF. it “Dick,” he said, in his quiet, grave way, “you seem to be yourself. ; abstracted, if not melancholy. I hope you feel well, my boy?” Young Fairday, gave a violent start, wheeled around, and ‘glancing up at the kindly face of the questioner, he answered Dresently: “Oh, ’'m ‘all right. Just was thinking.” “Upon a momentous subject, apparently?” “You can bet it was. It’s about a barrel of gold.” ; “Surprising! I hope you dre not building air-castles?” ey “Nota bit of it. Reckoning on a certainty, doctor.” : _* “Do you mind gratifying my curiosity about the matter?” “Qertainly I will. My father was wrecked among the Pa-| ; “cific islands, about ten years ago. His ship, the Sea Robin, went to pieces on an island in the Society group which we’re | now passing, but which one it was, I really don’t know.” “The Sea Robin—ten years ago?” queried Dr. Pike, with a “You lie!” exclaimed Ripley, but he gave a guilty start. E, “Captain—stop! Don’t degrade yourself by Becoming. loat. erish!” “What! D’ye dare ter call me names?” yelled Ripley, ‘his ‘ugly temper bridling up, and his tyrannical, overbearing na- ture asserting itself, and he picked up a capstan bar, and swinging it around, he dealt the physician a stunning blow ce that knocked him down. F Dr. Pike uttered a cry of pain, and tried to get up, but the furious captain sprang at him like a tiger, and was just ahpue to deal him a second blow, when Dick interfered. . he boy’s eyes flashed fire when he witnessed the iene. tain’s brutality, and unable to restrain himself, he doubled up his fists, sprang between Pike and Ripley, and dealt the ; look of great agitation wpon his face. “Good Heaven! What. captain such a terrific blow in the face thetbs baie ioc oe is your name?” io ebeiee xia ‘ “Fairday,” replied the boy, in some surprise. “But why are You coward!” the boy cried, in clear, ning tones. ' you so excited all of a sudden, doctor?” strike a defenseless man that, way, for telling the tru “Why,” gasped the physician, “I. was your father’s ship| “Thunder an’ lightnin’!” yelled the infuriated surgeon on the Sea Rovin When she was lost! At the time of scrambling to his feet, with one of his eyes plackengd. . the wreck, your father and'I were the only ones who escaped | {8 mutiny, you dog. : ru kill yer fere that lh pe yer alive, ‘In fact, I was swept ashore senseless, and remained so | tear yer ter pieces: for a space of several hours. When revived T\found Captain He made a rush for the ‘eéliant cabin ty uae Dick picked ese tee with me.” up the capstan bar and pluckily faced the brute. i | “Then you know that my father saved a barrel of virgin All the watch on deck had seen what transpired, and w old, which he purchased of an Australian native for a mere then surrounding the trio, all their sympathies with the boy rifle? He told my mother, ere he died, that he brought it ‘The captain gnashed his teeth with eae u _ashore from the wreck and buried it on the island, He left it paused. here ‘when a passing ship picked him up. He feared being} “Seize that: ‘lubbett” he yelled to his men. | "robbed, and intended to return and get it later on, But he irons!” & - die ‘at! home before he could carry out this plan. He failed “No, sir!” ssc tie several of the erew. 2 11, my mother which island he was on. But we knew he = ( yicried, del heat. a never expected to ‘ad: this out. i me ems as if Providence brought us together this way. I| Oo tell cee where that island. is. Thad it fog get

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FAME AND FORTUNE WEEKLY. AY rush from their thatched huts, and uttering loud shouts, they ran down into the water and began to oe their spears at Every one of the men heartily indorsed this sentiment, and | the three occupants of the boat. : hey might have said more had not the lookout yelled that the |‘ The captain hastily steered the eraft away from land, and _* storm which had been impending was then coming upon them. | soon sailed ber out of reach of the missiles. j Locking the captain in his cabin, every one hastened to his “I don’t see how we are going to get the treasure from the - post, and when the tempest swept down they were ready for it. |isle while those aborigines are there to prevent us landing,” & The gale was a severe one, lasted all night and through the | said the doctor in disgusted tones. “When I was here last the , “He is a brute!” remarked Dick. “I’m sorry I shipped under him,” next day, driving the Jumping-Jenny along under bare poles. j island was not inhabited. These blacks must have come from ‘When night fell on the sea again there came a terrible crash. | one of the neighboring isles since then and settled here.” The ship had struck a rock, a hole was stove in her hull “There must be over a hundred of them!” remarked Dick. close to the garboards, and she began to sink. “Yet I am willing to venture up on the hill, under cover of By this time the storm was abating. the darkness, and make an attempt to capture the\treasure.” Two of the boats were launched when it was seen that the “An’ I'll go along ter help yer!” said the captain, for the ship was going to pieces and bound to sink, and the crew em- | first time breaking his moody silence. barked and rode away in the gloom. They sent the boat straight out to sea, to deceive the sav- e. Dick and Dr. Pike had been left on the wreck, for there |ages of their intention, until they were out of sight, then’ - was no room for them with the crew. Another boat remained | making a half circuit of the island, they beat about until night- | _for them. ‘They hastily equipped it. with water, provisions, oars, an. anchor, sails, and some arms, and were on the point of launching her from the davits, ‘when they heard the captain in his cabin, yelling for help, and trying to burst down the door. “I will release him and give him a chance for his lite, ” said Dick, and he hastened over to the cabin door. But the key was gone. To leave Captain Ripley there meant certain death for him. ~ “Save me!” he yelled; frantically, from within the cabin. ; “Swear you will behave, and I’ll burst the door down,” re- - plied Dick. a As Heaven hears me ru do right.” ~ dick ‘procured an axe, and raining a shower of heavy blows 2 “upon the door, he splintered the wood and burst it in. : ‘Between the three they got the boat launched, embarked, and casting off the davits, pulled away on the dark, tossing fall. The boat was then steered in to the island, and they brought her to a pause in a tiny sheltered cove, and went ashore. Here an idea occurred to the captain to steal the boat, leave them to their fate, and return when the savages killed them, to get the treasure for himself; and he thereupon refused to go with them. | Unsuspicious of his scheme, the boy and the doctor stole away armed, and carrying several implements to dig with. They reached the top of the hill, and the boy located. the south side of the tree, by a compass, and measured off five paces. Four feet below the surface they encountered a water bar- rel in a good sound state, and finally succeeded in rolling the heavy thing out upon the side of the hill. Tt contained the treasure! The delight of the two was intense upon finding it intact, but before they could start to roll it down to the shore, the moon burst from behind a cloud bank and revealed to their Pstartled gaze a band of half a hundred natives creeping up the hill on all sides to attack them. A yell pealed from the blacks, and they rushed jopeeaa Surrounded on all sides, the two castaways seized their weapons and fired shot after shot at the blacks, 7 Wounded in many places, the boy - his friend resolved to sell their lives dearly. Before their enemies could reach ‘the castaways, however, a volley of rifle shots in back of them. pealed. out, and several savages fell. , “Our crew!” cried Dick, pointing down the hill. The doctor saw the sailors who had escaped from _the Jumping-Jenny, armed with pistols and rifles, charging up Mi the hill. ; It Was evident that they had made a ‘safe landing on this isle, and, having seen the jeopardy of Dick and dome came to the rescue, Ra et he Demoralized, the savages abandoned the attack and “fled. ‘Pursued by the sailors, every one on the island took to their 5 canoes, and made off for a neighboring isle. ~ is Dick and the doctor rolled the barrel down the hill to the boat, and to their horror found the captain lying on his ack upon the shore, pinned to the ground by a native’s spear, ny fi He was dead. oe a Ae) “Thunder was booming and tenting flashing overhead, and as. a roaring billow lifted the boat over its crest and a blind- ae sang a, up es sea, ‘they saw that ves were near to land. re the night was over they saw the ship go to pieces ; outlying reef upon which she had run. ts the dawn of day the storm cleared away entirely, and t hey partook of a frugal breakfast, rigged up a jury mast, set sail, and proceeded out on the sea to explore the coast and ry. 0. find the rest of the crew. e captain looked ugly and morose, but he didn’t offer to enew his fight, but sat in the stern sheets steering without saying a word to the boy and thé doctor. : ol chis manner they proceeded along the coast, and they i the lana was a small island, covered with tropical doctor eeatdined it eagerly, and as they came in sight one-shaped hill rising up in the center, 1 upon the top of fa @ solitary and enormously high palm tree, he{ ens, Dick, this is the very island upon which your wrecked ten years aso Woh dmark by which I distinguish it,” the aoc | 2) it lone palm on the MIT recited to me by my ‘mother, a he barrel of gold nugget lies a bspet witteh I can easily dis- The barrel of treasure wag put in the boat,’ | a On the following morning the boy and his friend or? | crew, told them all that had befallen them, and. learned turn that the isle was then in their possession. Every one voted that they were glad that jand agreed that as Dick’s father had owr e listened to these rightfully apts to the boy. : ro, he doctor} They mad themselves set ao

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These Books Tell You Everything! — _ A COMPLETE SET IS A REGULAR ENCYCLOPEDIA! i Pach book consists of sixty-four pages, printed on good paper,in clear type and teatly bound in 4m attractive, illustrated cover, lost of the books are also profusely illustrated, and all of the subjects treated upon are explained in such a simpie manner that any® ild apn SREEOP EN understand them. Look over the list as classified and see if you want to know anything about the subjecta mentioned. « - THESH BOOKS ARW FOR SALW BY ALL NEWSDBALERS OR WILL PE SENT BY MAIL TO ANY ADDRESS_ FROM THIS OFFICE ON RUCEHIPT OF PRICH, TEN CENTS BACH, OR ANY THREB BOOKS FOR TWENTY-FIVE CENTS. POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONDY. Address FRANK TOUSHY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, N.Y. MESMERISM. No. 81. HOW TO MWSMERIZE.—Containing the most ap- proved methods of mesmerism; also how to cure all kinds of diseases by animal magnetism, or, magnetic healing. By Prof, Leo Hugo Koch, A, G. 8., author of “How to Hypnotize,” etc, PALMISTRY: No. 82. HOW TO DO PALMISTRY.—Containing the most ap- proved methods of reading the lines on the hand, together with a full explanation of their meaning. Also explaining phrenology, and the key for telling character by the bumps on the head. By Leo Hugo Koch, A. ©. S. Fully illustrated. HYPNOTISM. \ No./83. HOW TO HYPNOTIZN.—Containing valuable and in- etructive information regarding the science of hypnotism, Also explaining the most approved methods which are employed by the leading hypnotists of the world. By Leo Hugo Koch, A.C.&. oh SPORTING. No. 21. HOW TO HUNT AND ¥FISH.—The most complete hunting and fishing guide ever published. It contains full in- structions about guns, hunting dogs, traps, trapping and fishing, together with descriptions of game and fish. No. 26. HOW FO ROW, SAIL AND BUILD A BOAT.—Fully iNustrated. Byery boy should know ‘how to row and sail a boat. Full instructions are given in this little book, together with in- structions on swimming and riding, companion sports to boating. No. 47. HOW TO BREAK, RIDE AND DRIVH A HORSH.— A-complete treatise on the horse. Describing the most useful horses for business, the best horses for the road; also valuable recipes. for Giseases peculiar to the horse. : o. 48, HOW TO BUILD AND SAIL CANOBS,—A handy book for boys, containing full directions for constructing canoes ‘and the most popular manner of sailing them. Wully illustrated, By 0. Stansfield Hicks. = FORTUNE. TELLING, No. 1. NAPOLEON’S ORACULUM AND DRDAM BOOK.— Containing the great oracle of human destiny; also the true mean- ing of almost any kind of dreams, together with charms, ceremonies, and curious games of cards. A complete book. No. 23. HOW TO EXPLAIN DRHAMS.—Hyerybody dreams, from the little child to the aged man and woman. ‘This little book gives the explanation to all kinds of dreams, together with lucky and unlucky days, and “Napoleon’s Oraculum,” the book of fate. : No. 28. HOW TO TELL FORTUNES.—HEveryone is desirous of ‘knowing what his future life will bring forth, whether happiness or misery, wealth or poverty. You can tell by a glance at this little book. Buy one and be convinced. Tell your own fortune, Tell the fortune of your friends. Tee No. 76. HOW TO TELL FORTUNES BY THR HAND.—- Containing rules for telling fortunes by the aid of lines of the hand, or the secret of palmistry. Also the secret of telling future events by aid of moles, marks, scars, ete. Illustrated. By A, Anderson. ATHLETIC, No. 6. HOW TO BECOME AN ATHLETH.-—Giving full in- struction for the use of dumb bells, Indian clubs, parallel bars, horizontal bars and various other methods of developing a good, become strong and healthy by. following the instructions contained in this little book. 3 No. 10. HOW TO BOX.—The art of self-defense made easy. Containing over thirty illustrations of gyards, blows, and the ditfer- cag ‘ent positions of a good boxer. very boy should obtain one of ae ies the it will teach you how to box these useful and instructive books, as without an instructor. No. 25. HOW TO BECOMD A GYMNAST.—Containing full instructions for all kinds of gymnastic sports and athletic exercises. Embracing thirty-five illustrations. By Professor W. Macdonald. A handy and usetul book. et eee fis a 34. HOW TO FENON.—Containing full instruction for of the broadsword; also instruction in archery. WAL complete book. KS. -jall, giving examples in electricity, hydraulics, magnetisii, healthy muscle; containing over sixty illustrations. Hvery boy can. nty-one practical illustrations, giving the best No. 72. HOW TO DO SIXTY TRICKS WITH CARDS.—Hm- bracing all of the latest and most deceptive card tricks, with il- lustrations, By A. Anderson. ’ No. 77. HOW TO DO FORTY TRICKS WITH CARDS.—_ Containing deceptive Card Tricks as performed by leading conjurors — and magicians, Arranged for home amusement. Fully illustrated. — ' MAGIC. No. 2. HOW TO DO TRICKS.—The great book of magic and — card tricks, containing full instruction on al} the leading card tricks of the day, also the most popular magica: illusions as performed by — our leading magicians; every boy should obtain a copy of this book, — as it will both amuse and instruct. ets. No. 22. HOW TO DO SECOND SIGHT.—Heller’s second sight explained by his former assistant,’Fred Hunt, Jr. Hxplaining how — the secret dialogues were carried on between the magician and the boy on the stage; also giving all the codes and signals. The only — authentic explanation of sécond sight. 4 No. 43. HOW TO BHCOME A MAGICIAN.—Containing the | grandest assortment of magical illusions ever placed before the — public. Also tricks with ecards, incantations, ete. oats a. No. 68. HOW TO DO CHEMICAL TRICKS.—Containing over one hundred highly amusing and instructive tricks with chemicals. By A, Anderson. Handsomely ‘illustrated. ; No. 69. HOW TO DO SLHIGHT OF HAND.—Containing over fifty of the latest and best tricks used by magicians. Also contain- ing the secret of second sight. Fully illustrated, By A. Anderson. No. 70. HOW TO MAKE MAGIC TOYS.—Containing full directions for making Magic Toys and devices of many kinds. By A. Anderson. Fully illustrated. 3 No. 73: HOW TO DO TRICKS WITH NUMBERS.—Showing many curious tricks with figures and the magic of numbers. By A. Anderson. Fully illustrated. < No. 75. HOW TO BECOME A CONJUROR. — Containing tricks with Dominos, Dice, Oups and Balls, Hats, etc. Embracing thirty-six illustrations, By A. Anderson. veep oe No. 78. HOW TO DO THD BLACK ART.—Containing a com. plete description of the mysteries of Magic and Sleight of Hand, together with many wonderful experiments. By A, Anderson. — Illustrated. MECHANICAL, — No. 29. HOW TO BECOME AN INVENTOR.—Bvery boy should know how inventions originated. This book explains th pneumatics, mechanics, ete. ‘The most instructive book _publishe _ No. 56. HOW TO BECOME AN ENGINEHR.—Containing ful instructions how to proceed in order to become a locomotive gineer; also directions for building a model locomotive; tog with a full description of everything an engineer should kno _No. 57, HOW 'TO MAKH MUS'CAL INSTRUMENTS.—} directions how to make a Banjo, Violin, Zither, Aolian ; phene and other musical instruments; together with a scription of nearly every musical instrument used in ancie modern times. Profusely illustrated. By Algernon 8. Fitag for twenty years bandmaster of the Royal pcaeal Marines. No. 59, HOW TO MAKE A MAGIC LANTHRN.—Con a description of the lantern, together with its history and i Also full directions for its use and for painting slides. Handsomely illustrated, By John Allen. |. - ev ii yk = No. 71. HOW TO DO MECHANIOAL TRICKS.—Cont complete instructions for performing over sixty Mecha: By A. Anderson. Pally illustrated. ; a LETTER WRITING. _ No. 11. HOW TO WRITH LOVE-LETTOR nt e intro We your sweeth and, in fac

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* SE eS SEO ee BS _ ” - o — Bais : THE STAGE. “age ; Ob Rd i 7 Become A ebro maaan: Becton : No. 41. . x ’ een iiustrations, giying the different positions requisite to become BOOK. Beek ret Se ea Eire ee eel oe a good speaker, reader and elocutionist. Also containing gems from £ fs : a f all the popular authors of prose and poetry, arranged in the mon Ln ae eran IR Ne amateur minstrels is complete without orawiacne concis> manner possible, ’ No. 42. THE BOYS OF NEW YORK STUMP SPHAKER.— No, 49. HOW TO DHBATE.— Giving rules for conducting de Confaining a varied assortment of stump speeches, Negro, Dutch | bates, outlines for debater, questions for discussion, and bess and Irish, Also end men's jokes. Just the thing for home amuse- | S°Urces for procuring information on the questions given. eo ds THE BOSS OF NAW. YORE SOCIETY o. 45. THE § TV RK MINSTREL GUIDE eset ped ns A : . AND JOKH BOOK.—Something new and very instructive, Byery |. No 8. HOW £O FLIRT.—The arts and wiles of flirtation are boy should cbtain this book, as it contains full instructions for or-| {4//¥ explained by this little book. Besides the various methods of ' ganizing an amateur minstrel troupe. handkerchief, fan, glove, parasol, window and hat flirtation, it cone _. No. 65. MULDOON’S JOKES.—This is one of the most original | tains a full list of the language and sentiment. of flowers, which ia joke books ever pupa ec, and it is brimful of wit and humor. It ras ie ie everybody, both old and young. You cannot be happy contains a large collection of songs, jokes, conundrums, etc., of = ; 5 A - j Terrence Muldoon, the great wit, humorist, and practical joker of | ,. No. 4. HOW LO DANCE we the title of a ty and handsome the day. Every boy who can enjoy a good substantial joke should lit@e book just issued by Frank Tousey. It contains full instruce ‘obtain a copy immediately. tions in the art of dancing, etiquette in the ball-room and at parties, "No. 79. HOW TO BECOME AN ACTOR.—Oontaining com- Lee to dress, and full directions for calling off in all popular square plete instructions how to make up for various characters on the | ¢4D¢eS- . stage; together with the duties of the Stage Manager, Prompter,| No 5- HOW TO MAKE LOVE.—A complete guide to love, Scenic Artist.and Property Man. By a-prominent Stage Manager. | Courtship and marriage, giving sensible advice, rules and etiquette ; No. 80. GUS WILLIAMS’ JOKE B OK.—Containing the lat- rere cae With many curious and interesting things not ene est jokes, anecdotes and funny stories of this world-renowned and | ally known. fe ce 2 ; Shed poolar Gasman’ comin, Six fou’ punt bandas |, 8; 31 HOW TO DRESS —Contaluing fll eration in the ‘paige CONE: containing a half-tone photo of the author. selections of colors, material, and how to have them made up. HOUSEKEEPING. D: ; ‘ i re Eke nak. ne alg ee po ne of bs Rome ag, 3 ae ; ‘ rightest and most valuable little books ever given to the wor! No. 16, HOW TO KEEP A WINDOW GARDEN.—Containing Everybody wishes to know how to become beautiful, both male and full instructions for constructing a window garden either in town! female, "The secret is simple, and almost costless. Read this bool country, and the most approved methods for raising beautiful and.be convinced how to become beautiful : " Og at home, The most complete book of the kind ever pub- ; lished. : “BIRDS AND ANIMALS. : ‘ _ No. 30. HOW TO COOK.—One of the most instructive books} No, 7, HOW TO KEEP BIRDS.—Handsomely “ an ; n ‘i ae P : MiG q — y illustrated and ae og Li osm caches tghee eee for Lee oes containing full instructions for the management and treiming of the ish, game, and oysters; also pies, puddings, cakes and all kinds of | canary, mockingbird, bobolink, blackbird, paroquet, parrot, ete, « i Ses oil and a grand collection of recipes by one of our most popular No. 39. HOW TO RAISE DOGS, POULTRY, PIGEONS A hae ; ma : - > Pathe " 3 eet No, 31, HOW TO KEEP HOUSE—It contains information for| RAUBITS 7A useful and instructive book. Handsomely illus- everybody, boys, girls, men and women; it will teach you how to TO ALA ney / 2° make almost anything around the house, such'as parlor ornaments, Pr egg tae og ee cee: sate peers eens brackets, cements, Acolian harps, and bird lime for catching birds, | Also how to cure skins. Copiously illustrated. By J. Harrington - No. 46. ease ws Blase TRICAL. TECTRICITY.—A Pee 50. HOW TO STUFF BIRDS .AND ANIMALS —A Yo. 46. AKH AND USE © «—A de- |. 2 “ hi diiek : “ ¢ Mieke r cription of the wonderful of electridity. and eléctro magnetism ; valuable book, giving instructions in collecting, preparing, mounting it : " ae ; b i f " and preserving birds, animals and insects. = ‘ ag “oe ee ee Come vor Hen | No. 54. HOW TO KEEP AND MANAGE PBTS.—Giving com or ee plete information as to the manner and. method of raising, keeping, “a 8: Pe taming, ‘breeding, and managing all kinds of pets; also giving f nia ful Wreiulis Poctoating sleiest wacon wean instructions for making cages, etc. Fully explained by twenty-eight fscticamtacand many aovel toys to be worked by’ electricity. | iusttations, making it the most complete book of the kind ever u By R.A. R Bennett. Fully illustrated. essa No. 67. HOW TO DO HLECTRICAL TRICKS—Containing a . MISCELLANEOUS. Be 5 No. 8. HOWTO BECOME A SCIENTIST.A useful and ins rge collection of instructive and highly amusing electrical tricks, structive book, giving a complete treatise on chemistry; also ex-— gether with illustrations. By A. Anderson. : é periments in acoustics, mechanics, mathematics, chemistry, and di- peel bat AL vc casi pectlons for making cea colored fires, and gas balloons. This . HOW TO BECOME A VEN'TRILOQUIST.— arry | )0OK Cannot be equaled. ’ , y. The secret Hsia away. ihn Beare po boy reading whe Pe, ue. at ang! CANDY.—A complete pena 4d ‘for Kk of instructions, by a practical professor (delighting multi- | making all kinds of candy, ice-cream, ‘syru 8, essences, etc.. etc, udes every night with his wonderfui imitations), can master the}, No. d4. HOW 'TO. BECOME AN AUTHOR.—Containing full art, and create any. amount of fun for himself and friends. It is the |information regarding choice of subjects, the use of words and the greatest book ever published, and there’s millions (of fun) in it. |manner of preparing and submitting manuscript. Also containing ~ No. 20. HOW TO ENTERTAIN AN EVENING PARTY.—A valuable information as to the neatness, legibility and general come: Pee of manuscript, essential to a successful author. ‘By Prince -Hilan i, : : i a "No. 38. HOW TO BECOME YOUR OWN DOCTOR.—A won- derful book, containing useful and practical information inthe treatment of ordinary diseases and ailments common to every. rasnlye Abounding in useful and effective recipes for general com- > plaints, ; ‘ ie Ths irae No. 55. HOW TO COLLECT STAMPS AND COENS.—Con- taining valuable information regarding/the collecting and arranging of stamps and coins. Handsomely illustrated. ea No. 58. HOW TO BE A DETECTIVE—By Old King es ; ble ep the world-known detective, In which he lays down some valual and sensible rules for beginners, and also relates some adyentu: and experiences of well-known detectives. Bis yaar Sc No. 60. HOW TO BECOME A PHOTOGRAPHER.—Contai ing useful information regarding the Camera and how to work it also how to make Photographie Magic Lantern Slides and oth to 5 e. By A. Anderson, = spel TTE. f4 ea a Handsomély illustrated. By Captain W. t * ’ | Abney. ee “d yin: ayaa ae , BOOK OF HTIQUETTH.—1t! No. 62. HOW TO BECOME A WEST POINT M at every young man desires to know | CADET.—Containing full explanations how to gain ac ss in it, ._.,. | course of Study; Examinations, Duties, Staff of Officer AVE taining the rules and etiquette | Guard, Police Regulations, Fire Department, and Shee ” ie ost approved methods of ap-| know to be a.Cadet. Compiled and written by Lu Senarens, author valle, Fhe theatre, church, and | of “How to Become a Naval Cadet.” Vig pete Sa ee Be oun ts, | No. 68. HOW TO BECOME A N. ; : s tions ¢ 0; gain a 5 ‘ _... | Academy. Also containing, HMICITATIONS. ‘and bui comprising Dutch'| sh jalect pi togethe

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“WILD ‘WEST WEEKLY” A Magazine Contarnine Srorres, SKETCHEs, ETC., OF WESTERN Lire Cororep Covers e 32 PaGcEs Prick 5 Cents | 242 Young Wild West and the Silver Seekers; or, Arietta’s | 247 Young Wild West and the Rival Scouts; or, The Raid of “Hot Lead Sauce.” the Cowboy Gang. : 243 Young Wild West’s Lively Lasso and How It Gorraled the | 248 Young Wild West’s Box of Bullion; or, mes iii and the Cowboy Crooks. ; Overland Robbers, 244 Young Wild West at Greaser Gulch; or, Arietta and the | 249 Young Wild West's Bareback Beat; or, The Boss Boy of Masked Mexicans. the Broncho Busters. 245 Young Wild West and the Cavalry King; or, The Race |250 Young Wild West at Fire Hill; or, How Arietta Saved the With a Rival Rider. Flag. 246 Young Wild West and the Sioux Scalpers; or, How Arietta | 251 Young Wild West and the Greaser Giant; or “Mexican Saved Her Life. Mike’s” Mistake, “THE LIBERTY BOYS OF ’76” CONTAINING REVOLUTIONARY StToRrES CoLoRED porns 32 Paaus Prior 5 Crys 336 The Liberty Boys and the Seven Scouts; or, Driving Out; 341 The Liberty Boys’ Secret Enemy; or, Exposing the Gun- the Skinners. powder Plot. ve 337 The Liberty Boys’ Winning Volley; or, Fighting Along | 842 Tho Liberty Boys on the Firing line; or, Chasing the Royal the Mehawk. Greens. 838 The Liberty Boys and the Hessian Giant; or, The Battle | 848 The Liberty Boys and Sergeant Jasper; or, The Engagement of ‘Lake Champlain. | at Charleston Harbor. rat 339 The Liberty Boys’ Midnight Sortie; or, Within An Inch} 344 The Liberty Boys with Mercer’s Riflemen: or, Holding 7 “¢ of Capture. the Redcoats at Bay. ' , 340 The Liberty Boys on Long Island; or, Repulsing the| 345 The Liberty Boys After Logan; or, The Raid of the Mingo Whaleboat Raiders. ‘ i : Indians. ; “SHCRET SERVICE” @ Ox~p AND Youna Kaine Brapy, Derrorives i ss f aa ) Conorep Covers © i 32 ‘PAGES Price 5 Crys 437 The Bradys and the Man Trappers; or, Hot Times on, 442 The Bradys Among the Handshakers; or, Trapping the Whirlwind Lake. Confidence Men. 438 The Bradys and the House of Skulls; or, The Strange | 443 The Bradys and the Death Trunk; or, The Chicago Secret _ Man of Five Points. , Seven, : 439 The Bradys’ Dating Deal; or, The Bargain With Dr. | 444 The Bradys bri ‘Mr. Magic; or, After the ‘Thumbless Death. ; League. _ 440 The Bradys and the Coffin Man; or Held’in the House of | 445 The Bradys’ Double Trap: or, Working the Night Side of Re _ the Missing. / : New York. es patente 0. Ady’ The Bradys and the Chinese Dwarf; or, The Queue Hunter | 446 The Bradys and the Gan-Boks: Boys; or, Caravelle) a of the Barbary Coast. ; | Navy Yard Mystery. ~ For sale ie all newsdealers, or will be sent to any address on receipt of price, 5 cents per copy, in money or postage stamps, b se ; FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, N, ae IF you WANT ANY BACK NUMBERS of our Weeklies and cannot procure et from newsdealers, they can be obtained from this office direct. Gut out and fill in the following Order Blank and send it to us with the price of the weeklies you want and we will send them to you te cara POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. cy ‘ ee eT epee: ot Ueto BH Ole ie Pray Mae a er ee BS Ge balla 808 a7 le of oie’ wb 4's 0.0 BUNS lie old elm MUR ere. wide BuSid-al Si ery recsLed FRANK TOUSEY, ‘Pabletes, 24 Union tates New York. ri Ad, * Dar Sirr—Enclosed find.’..... cents for which please dey me: Rr tree NOR ie Sa Sali of WORBiA NOY WIN Mos.sic Kes Bix. 4. cies onecamoth colee eee serene eee teens eee eeen eee ee Ware =| kA ED Bt AW Akt WEEKLY, alone cut Mae rhe SiN Cae AE Nailin oy: {aw © WILD. WEST WEEKLY, Nosi......... Be gene HOG ce og et epee EY, . _* « THE LIBERTY BOYS ce "6, er eee oi as sn) Cah gaggecieas cs Se S PLUCK AND LUCK, vii JRL st ey GUN clos Pye seagate arene see cece et sieeee 0 STp jaa ee a ee NF Pe ee fata: i bis = eee i‘ 14

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Fame and Fortune Weekly STORIES OF BOYS WHO MAKE MONEY By A SELF-MADE MAN ‘ « COLORED COVERS — PRICE 5 Cts. . ISSUED EVERY FRIDAY 32 PAGES This Weekly contains interesting stories of smart boys, who win fame and fortune by their ability to take advantage of passing opportunities: Some of these stories are founded on true incidents in the lives of our most successful self-made men, and show how a boy of pluck, perseverance and brains can become fam- ous and wealthy. ALREADY PUBLISIED. 61 Rising in the World; or, From Factory Boy to Manager. A Good Thing; or, The Boy Who Made a Fortune. 62 From Dark to Dawn; or, A Poor Boy’s Chance. 16 17 King of the Market; or, The Young Trader in Wall Street. ’ i 18 Pure Grit; or, One Boy in a Thousand. 63 Out for Himself; or, Paving His Way to Fortune. 19 A Rise in Life; or, The Career of a Factory Boy. 64 Diamond Cut Diamond; or, The Boy Brokers of Wall Street. 20 A Barrel of Money; or, A Bright Boy in Wall Street. 65 A Start in Life; or, A Bright Boy’s Ambition, 21 All to the Good; or, Krom Call Boy to Manager. 66 Out for a Million; or, The Young Midas of Wall Street. i 22 How He Got There; or, The Pluckiest Boy of Them All. 67 Every Inch a Boy; or, Doing His Level Best. | 23 Bound to Win; or, The Boy Who Got Rich. 68 Money to Burn; or, The Shrewdest Boy in Wall Street. 24 Pushing It Through; or, The Fate of a Lucky Boy. 69 An Eye to Business; or, The Boy Who Was Not Asleep. 25 A Born Speculator; or, The Young Sphinx of Wall Street. 70 Tipped by the Ticker; or, An Ambitious Boy in Wall Street. | 26 ‘The Way to Success; or, The Boy Who Got There. 71 On to Success; or, The Boy Who Got Ahead, | 27 Struck Oil; or. The Boy Who Made a Million. 72 A Bid for a Fortune; or, A Country Boy in Wall Street. 3 | 28 A Golden Risk; or, The Young Miners of Della Cruz. 73 Bound to Rise ; or, Fighting His Way to Success. i 29 A Sure Winner; or, The Boy Who Went Out With a Circus. 74 Out for the Dollars; or, A Smart Boy in Wall Street. 80 Golden Fleece: or, The Boy Brokers of Wal! Street. 75 For Fame and Fortune; or, The Boy Who Won Both. 31 A Mad Cap Scheme; or, The Boy Treasure Hunters of Cocos Island | 78 A Wall Street Winner; or, Making a Mint of Money. 82 Adrift on the World; or, Working His Way to Fortune, 77 The Road to Wealth; or, The Boy Who Found It Out. 33 Playing to Win; or, The Foxiest Boy in Wall Street. 78 On the Wing; or, The Young Mercury of Wall Street. 84 Tatters; or, A Boy from the Slums. 79 A Chase for a Fortune; or, The Boy Who Hustled. 35 A Young Monte Cristo; or, The Richest Boy in the World. 80 Juggling With the Market; or, The Boy Who Made it Pay. La wee by gl he ee, The eave bee a epee - 81 Cast Adrift; or, The Luck of a Homeless Boy. eating the Brokers; or, The Boy Who “Couldn't be Done.’ 82 Play K epee saat -_ A 7 405 + Re vee Bees eI AAA Nog Boy ae ae ail 83 Pee er aperenay a esc htt Boe Never Say e; or, The Young Surveyor o appy Valley. QA ir it Bah cad) ee aoe tty) Keke 5 a 40 Almost a Man; or, Winning His Way to the Top. 84 From Rags to Riches; or, A Lucky Wall Street Messenger, 41 Boss of the Market; or, The Greatest Boy in Wall Street. 85 On His Merits; or, The Smartest Boy Alive. 42 The Chance of His Life; or, The Young Pilot of Crystal Lake. 86 Trapping the Brokers; or, A Game Wall Street Boy. 48 Striving for Fortune; or, From Bell-Boy to Millionaire. 87 A Million in Gold; or, The Treasure of Santa Cruz. 44 Out for Business; or, The Smartest Boy in Town. 88 Bound to Make Money; or, From the West to Wall Street. 45 A Favorite of Fortune; or, Striking it Rich in Wall Street, 89 The Boy Magnate; or, Making Baseball Pay. 46 Through Thick and Thin; or, The Adventures of a Smart Boy. 90 Making Money, or, A Wall Street Messenger’s Luck. 47 Doing His Level Best: or, Working His Way Up. 91 A Harvest of Gold; or, The Buried ‘Treasure of Coral Island 45 ys on Deck; or, The Boy Who Made His Mark. $2 On the Curb; or, Beating the Wall Street Brokers i 49 A int of Money; or, The Young Wall Street Broker. 93 A Freak of Fortune; or, The Boy Who Struck Tuck 50 The Ladder of ame; or, From Office Boy to Senator. 94 The Prince of Wall Street: or, A Big Veal for Big. Money. 51 On the Square; or, The Success of an Honest Boy. 05 Starting His Own Business; or, The Boy Who Caught On 52 After a Fortune; or, The Pluckiest Boy in the West. 96 A Corner in Stock; or, The Wall Street Boy Who Won. — oH Ryienine tne Sat his ie aes ge ie ptregt 97 Wirst in the Field; or Doing Business for Himselt. 5: aking s Mark; or, The Boy Who Became President. roker at Highteen: tilbert”’ i St: reer, Bs Heir to a Million; or, The Boy Who Was Born Lucky. 98 A Broker at Eighteen: or, Roy Gilbert’s Wall Street Career 56 Lost in the Andes: or. The Treasure of the Buried City. * 57 On His Mettle; or, A Plucky Boy in Wall Street. 58 A Lucky Chance; or, Taking Fortune on the Wing. 59 The Road to Success; or, The Career of a Fortunate Boy. 60 Chasing Pointers; or, The Luckiest Boy in Wall Street. For sale by all newsdealers, or will be sent to any address on receipt of price, 5 cents per copy, in money or postage stamps, aa FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, -: 24 Union Square, New York. IF YOU WANT ANY BACK NUMBERS of our Weeklies and cannot procure them from newsdealers, they can be obtained from this office direct. Cut out and fill — in the following Order Blank and send it to us with the price of the weeklies you want and we will send them to you by — return mail. POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. i 4) a Oige Sd) of Oe od: aie elle aol lee el duel @ 6 6 6 Ol ole) we wd 8 SW © Om dhe 8 WRN and eM MIM SSeS 6 (eee (8 0) 8 6'\416) OWA oii... ce rere ere