Five Cent Wide Awake Library (vol. 1) (1883 06 27)
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Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1883, by FRANK TOUSEY, in the office of tne Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. Entered at the Post Office at Nei York, N. ¥., as Second Class Matter, 7 ge 7 , By Parra 10,568, lcounany _ SAR ORL Pomme ow Somer eT, GR Vad EXTREE NICK, THE NEW YORK NEWSBOY. : By COMMODORE AH-LOOK, Author of ‘Billy Bakkus,” ‘*Barnum’s Boy Ben,” ‘‘Sassy Sam Sumner,” etc., ete.
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killed !? » eutup?? " speaker, he said: fa . - Pe Yer jes’ clear, all ov yer! D’ye hear! If yer | in EXTREE NICK. The subscription price for Tus Wine Awake Liprary for the year 1882 will. be $2.50 per year; $1.25 per - . FRANK TOUSEY, PusrisuEr, 34 and 36.North Moore Street, New York. ~ eee, CHAPTER I. ALONE IN THE WORLD. Tur newsboys were piled ten deep on the steps of the basement where. the evening papers were being prepared fordelivery, when an excited woman came rushing up to the crowd clustered about the mouth of the place, shouting: « Where’s Nick Newcome? Where's Nick New- come?” a Nick, a smart specimen of a New York news- boy, with a round, sassy, apple-face, was down on the front row of the steps, ready to receive the firsf™batch of papers; so’ when the woman repeated her inquiry, thinking that “ der fellers ” were making an April fool of him, he refused to budge, saying: rie .% m “Oh, stow it! Yer don’t fool Nick!” when the messenger parted the hindmost of the crowd, and, looking down the basement stairs, screamed: “You, Nick, come right home—your fathers “How?” he cried, recognizing the voice of the woman who washed forhis’ parent; then, turning deadly :pale, added: ~“¢Yer foolin’ ‘me, Miss Sanders |” Dropping his newspaper check, he scrambled over the bodies of his companions and with ter- ror-stricken face followed his gvide; while the rest of thé boys watched his retreat and com- mented upon his misfortune, Ayear previously Nick had lost his mother, as good a woman as ever drew breath; and now an accident, in demolishing a ruined building on Broadway, had deprived him of his father. Upon arriving in the wretched room he had heretofore/called home, he found it filled with | people, who, upon seeing him drew back, whis- pering: “ Here’s his boy !” wie On the straw ‘bed in the corner of the apart- “mont rested his father, still in death, with his oor limbs crushed and his form crimsoned with ife-blood. -— r : : : At first the boy was afraid to approach him, but after awhile he timidiy drew near, turned back the gheet placed over the body, and stealing his arm around the upturned face, kissed the cold lips. 5 4d oe EAS Why don’t he cry?” demanded one of the women of Mrs. Sanders, “He don’t seem at all Poor Nick, his heart was too full of sorrow, and the luxury of tears was beyond his command, but the words tortured him, and, turning to the don’t yera lot of brutes!” : Slowly, as though regretting to quit the place, ‘the crowd filtered out, observing to one another: “What a little cuss Nick is! He won’t come to . any good, you'll see,” ete., ete., to all of which ~ derssaid: oe oe to my room now, Nick. Leave the | _ door open; if you want me, call. a mug of tea?” the boy made no reply.» % ~ When the last stranger had departed, Mrs. San- «Tl go i : Will you take “But the lad only shook his head, and, when rap camo at the door rakes oo aN “ez oie | fist ‘| s she had retired, hastily bolted the door, then] threw himself upon the bed by the side of his ab e “Nick, may I come in?” sg : ; It was Josie Perry, a girl who lived in the same ‘/tenement, and who, like himself, sold newspapers and tried to earn her own living. Rising, he crept towards the door, unbolted it and said: “What yer want, Josie?” z “ Ree eae My boy,” said Tom, “‘all honest men are my é : my"
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funeral goin’ ter be?” times va blacking boots. tee tire, when Mrs. Sanders entered and told him where he could find a respectable undertaker, By ten o’clock the body was decently coffined, and Tom informed the orphan that the next morning he would accompany him to the ceme- tery. We often hear that there is no good in the world, and that nowadays it’s “every one for himself,” but, thank Heayen, there are a few Tom MeNallys among us. Towards midnight a crowd of newsboys began to collect in the room, all of them anxious to show their sympathy for their friend. “He must be a bully man dat bought -yer dis coffin,” wnispered Big Jemmy, thrusting a paper of pop-corn into: Nick’s hand. ‘‘Where’s der The lad informed him, and Jemmy said he would be there, and that a crowd of newsbdys would accompany him, then volunteered to re- main during the night. ‘Just as they stretched themselves upon the straw-bed, Josie knocked lightly at the door, saying: aN ere’s two dollars fifteen for you, Nick; I sold three editions for yer.” : The boy rose, and, opening the door, hastily | told her of his good fortune in meeting om, then, thanking her for her kindness, retired to think over his sorrew. Jemmy was dead tired, so he soon fell SHAY but for a long time Nick could’ notclose his eyes. Whiten he awoke it was broad daylight, and Mrs: Sanders was calling him to breakfast. True to his word, Tom MeNally borrowed a ~ buggy of a friend and droye the orphan to the cemetery; the hearse having gone on ahead. © Upon arriving at the chapel, they found a large party of newsboys who had walked every step of the way, five miles, in order to show their regards for their chum ,,'Phe last prayers were said, and rites perform), and, with a breaking heart, Nick watched the coffin descend to its resting-place beside the mother whom he had loved so well, while the clustering crowd sobbed sympa, and sorrowed sincerely for his OSS. “Boss,” he said, as he accompanied his friend back to the pueey, “Td rader walk home wid der boys. God bless yer fur yer kindness, I shall begin der world wid a lighter heart, for sometimes I kin come out here an’ see where - he —is.” 5 : Then, wringing his companion’s hand, turned to rejoin his chums. : “Nick,” said Tom, ‘I’m real glad that I had the means of doing you this little act of friend- ship. Here is my address; come and see me sometimes,” with which he handed him a card, and, mounting the vehicle, drove off. The boys did all they could to cheer the or- han, and Big Jemmy treated him to some root eer, Saying: $2 “Yerin luck, I tell yer. Dat extree edertion did der big fur yer.” Then, turning to the newsboys, said: “Say, s’pose we call him Extree Nick?” “That’s a bully name !” they shouted, and from that day the orphan was known by this title. Full of life, and, when his grief was'somewhat abated, as jolly as a sand-boy, Extree Nick tack- led fate, struggled like a little man, and, as the reader will learn, experienced a number of com- ical adventures, he being always ahead with his papers and cry of: “Yar—here’s yar extree!’’ CHAPTER III. _ BATREE TO THE RESCUE. Two years passed, during which Extree Nick had contrived te boom along quite nicely, some- ng his business by selling frttit and He was by this time ee a.big lad, being fif- teen years old, and, as he did not expect to be a newsboy all his life, began to loo something else to.de, The superintendent of the Home had done his best to get him some regular occuprtion, but about for there were so many youngsters wanting places, and so few vacancies, that his friend had not been able to obtain anything for him. Be fae One morning, when he and Big Jemmy were seated on the dark stéps of the fourth floor of the Herald building, one of the boys said: : “Josie Perry is in luck.” “How?” demanded Nick, who always took a pret interest in his friend, and who looked upon eras his girl, 4 © Bee " ‘“‘ Well, yer see,” answered the boy, “she hook- ed an ole woman from under a horse’s feet in ‘Broadway, an’ der ole gal give her a hundred Fe 4 Broadway,” observed Tom. EXTREE’ NIGK. 7 dollars, an’ Josie’s folks have bin on der spree ever since.” « ‘‘Heard dat her ole man half killed Josie dis morning,” said another newsboy. “Did he?” said Nick, rising and jg ta not to pay very particular attention to their conversa- tion; but he failed to deceive them, and presently, as he began to descend the stairs, Big Jemmy ealled out: . ‘ : : ‘Goin’ ter see yer mash?” “Whose mash?” he demanded. “Oh, serateh yer ear an’ trot,” grinned Jemmy. eeeeens we ain’t seen yer walkin’ Josie out Sun- ays : * Nick’ll do der trick,” cried another. ‘‘ Yer'll see him drive her out in a hack some day, an’ us boys runnin’ *longside hollerin’: ‘Extree! full *count ob de extree weddin’!” Nick chuckled oyer this, and determined to sell them a trick; so, after waiting awhile, he rushed up the steps, shouting: : 3 “ Boys, boys ! hurry—extree out! Come ’long!” then turned and darted down-stairs, followed by the newsboys, crying: « Where—where?” Nick dodged across the road to the Astor House, then doubled and ran over the way to the City Hall Park, after which he darted across to the Sun building and halted, when up panted Big Jemmy, saying: 3 ‘*Where’s der extree out?” “Here !” he shriéked, indicating himself; “I’m der last extree out! One ob yer said I could do der trick, an’ ’ve done it;” with which he threw a somerset, and walked off on his» ear, leaving Jemmy to inform the other newsboys of his joke. As he was resuming a perpendicular position, he observed Tom McNally, who had prospered in the world, and was looking remarkably well. Tom had always remembered him, and had done the boy many kindnesses; so, on beholding his friend, he paused, saying: : “Glad ter see yer, boss. ” “Ah, Extree Nick,” smilingly answered the gentloman: “T want to see you. How is busi- ness? : i “Putty hunk,” answered the boy. ‘Yor see, boss, I’m gettin’ on in der world. I wants a news-stand.” “T have taken the first floor of a building on ““There’s a recess between the »vindows where you can put in », board and s' astand rightaway. It’s on my ground, and when I’m fixed, I’ll-have a news- Stand built for you, and it will be your fault if you don’t make a fortune.” «Yer mean it, Mr. Tom?” he cried. foolin’ me, are yer?” _ “No,” replied his friend; “come along ;” with which he led him across to Broadway and pointed to a handsome ground floor, on the windows of which he saw, in golden letters: : “PORTABLE GAS COMPANY (Lmare=p), Tuomas McNAtty, Secretary.” Nick had learned to read at the Newsboys’ Home, and could write quite a nice hand. Procuring a board, he covered it with a piece of oilcloth, and fixed it in the recess as a shelf. Then he bustled off to the News Company and peecures his stock of papers, after which he ran ack and opened store. Being right on a corner, he gold out rapidly, and by the time the evening journals were out was ready for a new stock. 5; ““Welll” said Mr. Tom, as we shall in future call him, “do you think you got a good stand?” “Tf I only had a pardner, ‘ou know,” replied Extree. I could do jes splendid.” ’ Mr. Tom looked thoughtful, then said: “Tf you knew of aboy like yourself, [shouldn’t mind; but your chum, Jemmy, as you call him, uses such bad language, and smokes, and ”— when Extree interrupted with: “T know, Mr. Tom, yer don’t like cussin’. I’ve dropped it ’cos yer said it was bad. I don’t know any of our crowd I could ask ter help me here,” musingly. “ Wish I dollars a day.” ~ Sie “Well,” said his friend, “TI tell you what itis, Extree. If you can find some nice, clever, well- spoken boy, like qourselt, I will have this space inelosed and fixed for you, and be your security with the News Company!” ~~ “Thank yer kindly,” answered the boy, scratch- eee head. ‘I guess I kin find some one ter uit. 5 When the office closed, Extree bent his way towards his old restdence, and ascending to the top floor, paused; inside he could hear a man Swearing and a girl sobbing. : h “Ver ain’t “Give it me, you huzzy, give it me!” said the | brute. ‘*Give it me, hear, or I'll kill you?” “Oh, father!” pleaded a gentle voice, “let me ried Josie. did; I could” earn three s ain’t fit to go into the street. If I was only decent I gould get a good place !” wr ortless Since the night that she sold the papers for Extree and comforted him, Josie had been to evening school, and had learned to talk asa young girl should; at the same time she had not been able to rise above the poverty of her surround- ings, her parents being slaves to the demon of in- temperance. As ghe replied to her father, Extree placed his fingers upon the latch and was about to enter, when Perry uttered a’ fearful expression, and, seizing the stove-lifter, rushed at his daughter, crying: ‘Tl haye yer life!” : ’ In an instant Extree threw open the door and springing between the monster and his child, said: , i “Drop it—hear 2?” i 4 : “Drop fhwat?’ insultingly demanded the brute. «That ther stove-lifter!” said the boy slowly. “T mean it I” 2 Nick was tall and strong for his age, and was defending the girl of his heart. ; ““Yez,” began the drunken fiend, rushing at him with the weapon uplifted, when he darted in, grasped Perry by the waist, and, disarming the would-be murderer, landed him in a wash- tub half filled with hot suds, which. stood in the far cornerof the room. |. s Rising, dripping, from his involuntary hot bath, the man uttered an oath, saying: «Give me that lifter—hear ?” - Extree raised the window and pitched the weapon into the yard below, then turning to the man, said: J ‘« Give it yer to knock my brains out wid? , No much. Yer don’t fool Nick!” ; CHAPTER IY. a JOE RUDOLPH, : As Extree was defying Perry, the man’s wif who had hereto been slumbering, awoke an rubbed her eyes, murmuring: : “Josie, dear}? : ; ‘“‘ Well, mother?” said the girl, who was all ofa tremble. ¢ ‘Give me the bottle, darlin’?” whispered the woman; hearing which the man, who had been eying Nick from head to foot, turned to his worse half, saying: ; “Ye can’t, have another drop! Sure; yez own chile tells yez she wants the stamps heaven has sint. us to clothe herfoine carcass wid! Amorica is a great counthry—sure our childher larn to spake foine, an’ the divil may take their parints !’” “Oh, father! father! how can you talk so?” “You know I’d-die for you!” ‘Hear her!” sneered the brute. ‘She ses she’d die for us, an’ won’t give us the price av a pint! Oh, begorra, yez a foine daughter, wid yer grand spache and larnin’; sure, yez wants another taste ay the sthick.” 2 ; On hearing this Nick flushed, and, turning to the girl, said: : “Yer come outer dis; ‘taint no place for yer, Josie.” Whereupon the woman rose, and stag- gering towards the child, screamed; “Give me the money and go, yevixen. Go wid him, and never put yez fut on my flure again!” Turning to her parents, the indignant girl said : “Mother—father—if the dirty money would do you any good, you might have it; but rt will only make you sin more. ~ I'll go, because I can’t stay with you—can’t stand your ill-treatment, and be- cause it’s bést. You’ye turned me out of doors time and again. I’ve slept on the stairs many a night. My learning has taught me that if T do what is right I am as good as any woman living — as any finely-dressed girl in this city——” ; “Yer a derned deal better den any,” put in Ex- tree, who had listened to her with deep attention. “Yer comé wid me, Josie. I'll get yer a home.” “Och, sure, and yez haye run after him enough!” cried Mrs. Perry. “Yez have forced him to have yez!” ; Ke pees “Mother!” proudly returned the girl, “when you were in the old country—before you took to drink, did any one ever say such a thing to you as you have to me? Extree ain’t going to marry me; we're only # boy and a girl” =~ ee bet I'll marry you some day,” muttered ek, Soe TaeersdS “Och! don’t yez thry to desave md.” sneered the woman. ‘I know yez, yes Amerikin! TI wash my hands ay yez. Sure, an’ I belaye yez a changeling. ‘No girl wid de thrue dhrop in her blood would turn se her parents and refuse to_ lind ’em a trifle ay dirty rags. Go, ye crayter, or Tl put'me curse upon yea ‘As she uttered these words her husband, who © had been listening to her in drunken silonee, | pay the rent and take my things out of pawn! I; began a fearful imprecation on his child; but, ere
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4 EXTREE NICK. he could utter two words, Nick confronted him, erying: ° ‘Hold on, hear! This yer own fleshand blood ; if yer curse her yer won’t die in yer bed; hear?” But the man recommenced, so, as Josie fled in terror, Extree seized the pair of wet stockings that Perry had just taken off, and, rushing at the brute, knocked him sprawling; then crammed them into his mouth, shouting: «Dern yer, stop! If yer wasn’t Josie’s father Vd make yer eat dem!> Yer don’t deserve such. an angel fora kid.” Then, turning to follow the girl, added: : ‘*Look ahea, If yer tries to interfere wid Josie, eider ob yer, I'll fix yer—hear? Ill take care of her. - See?” Then, amid the horrible wishes of the drunken air, he darted down the -stairs and rejoined 5 osie, who was in the hall of the next floorsobbing ‘as'though her heart would break. . “Oh, Extree,” she said, ‘‘I can’t leave ’em! They'll die if Laint with them. Neither of them will work.” ‘Dey won't, hey?” said the newsboy, chuck- ling. ‘‘Dey wants yerter rim roun’ der streets #ellin’ papers, an’ fur dem to drink ud your earnin’s, hey? Well, dey won’t get it! Nick’ll do der trick; jes’ yer come along, Josie.” ‘“But—l’m afraid, Extree,” she faltered, mean- dng that she considered it wrong to leave her par- ents; but Nick, taking it as an expression of doubt with regard to himself, although secretly knowing she loved him, said: ‘Yer afraid of me, Josie?) Pshaw! yer jokin’! . Yer afraid of de’boy as would give his right hand ‘ter save yer from ill treatment, Afraid ob me, arter all yer’ve done fur me? Oh, Josie, d’ye think I’ve forgot der awful night when my poor father died?” ‘‘Hush, hush, Extree,” she sobbed. ‘ Afraid of you? Wo, indeed. Vd trust you anyway. What I meant was, ain’t it wrong for me to leave father and mother? Would you have done so, Extree, dear?” ; : She had never thus-addressed him, and: he scarcely knew how to reply; but, finally taking her trembling hand, whispered : - “Took ahea, Josie, my father and mother wasn’t der same as yer parents, hea? My _ mother——” But he could not complete the sentence, and leaning against the wall, buried his face on his slkeve, while Josie turned her head aside and sobbed in sympathy. Sines the night that she sold his extras for him, he had never referred to his father’s fate; al- though she knew that he often went out to the cemetery, and that the grave which contained the newsboy’s parents was kept neat; and that out of his hard earnings Nick had purchased two rose bushes for it, which he attended with great care. After awhile Extree conquered his sorrow, and turning to his companion, said: “Look ahea, Josie, yer a bully gal to stick up fur yer folks; but yer ain’t doin’ dem no good hea. I knows a boy named Joe Rudolph; he’s a real niee chap, is Joe; his mother will let you live ‘wid her till I kin get you somethin’ ter do. Yer must call yerself Josie. Newcome—see? Den when yer wants, yer kin help yer folks; but, Josie, take my advice, let °em help demselves a little—savvy?” " Guess I'll try it, Extree,” she said, and away they went down the well-worn stairs, the boy ‘telling her about his luck, and between them ‘building a bright future. ' Going up-town as far as Canal. street, they found Mrs. Rudolph’s house, and Nick soon ar- ‘ranged about temporary accommodation for _Josie. : “While they were chatting, Joe came in singing, -.and seeing the visitors, cried : “ What, Extree! How do yer do?” _T'm sproutin’,” laughingly answered the boy. ** What yer doin’, Joe?” P - Outer. luek,” aid the new-comer, an honest \tttle chap who only wanted a chance in the world. ‘* I’m helpin’ mother.” . “He’s a good boy,” said Mrs. Rudolph. ‘I wish times would improve; as it is, a small specimen like Joe gets crowded out.” Extree thought awhile, then said: “Spose I give yer a lift, Joe?” ““Under der ear?” grinned the boy, winking at ‘his mother. ‘‘Is dat der way ter carry on afore ‘ladies?” ! _ Oh, close yer nap,” smilingly. answered Ex- tree. ‘‘Yer oughter know me better. How ‘would yer like ter go inter biz wid me?” -. “Yer blowin’,” murmured Joe. “Tl tell yer what I’ll do,”-continued Nick; -. Pye got a chance in der world, an’ I want's a ardner.’s 5) i) Searels « There’s your boy,” said Mrs. Rudolph, point- anne ait : A yut ing ather son. ‘*He’s small, but he’s smart, and he’ll stick to you and be true and honest.” “That's me said Joe. ‘ Extree, if yer want a pard, I’m wid yer.” . The newsboy smiled at Josie, and holding out his hand to his friend, said : “Tf der boss as owns der office will pass yer, Dll give yer a quarter of my profits. I’m bound ter run der biz, Nick’ll do der trick.” A CAHPTER Y, STARTING A NHWS-STAND. Wen Extree retired that night, he could not sleep for thinking of his good luck. it was his last night in the Newsboys’ Home, and from the next morning he was to begin a fresh departure. “Mr, Tom isa real good man,” he mused. ‘ Gol dern it, I’ll try ter show him I’m grateful.” “Got der nightmare?” demanded Big Jemmy, who occupied the next bed. ‘‘ What yer chinnin’ *bout, Extree?’ Nick told him of his good fortune; then, as the sounds in the street below died into silence, he gradually slumbered The next morning ‘he was up bright and early, and when the office Rene he spread his pagers, and, upon seeing a likely customer hurrying by, shouted: 3 ‘Here yer are, mornin’ papers, illustrated weeklies, boss! Boys’ WEEKiY—buy a copy fer yer son, boss, an’ read it yourself; it’s 1u ly!” As most keepers of news-stunds wait for their clients to speak to them, folks noticed this; and, as Nick had a bright, sassy way with him, he did a rattling trade. ; i. He had arranged that Joe should be on hand about nine o’clock, and when he lad came he handed him a sheaf of morning papers, saying: _ rot up Broadway an’ try yer luck!” when away. Joe started, yelling: ‘“Here yar—New York Herald, World, Times an’ Tribune!” while Extree looked after him, thinking: an “You'll do, bubby.” About ten o’clock Mr. Tom arrived, and when he had read his letters he sent for Nick. FRB ea he began, ‘have you found a part- ner?” Nick nodded, saying: “Got a bully one—Joe Rudolph! He’s small; but I tell yer, boss, he’s mighty smart.” “You're satisfied with him, hey?” «Satisfied !” he cried ; “‘ why, Mr. Tom, I thinks almost as much ob him as I does ob yerself!” His friend laughed, then inquired : 66 wy. did you not let him commence right away!” ‘* Boss,” he answered, ‘yer don’t think Extree would be so imperdint as ter set on a boy afore yer’d said he’d do, hey?” “You're right, Extree!” replied Mr. Tom. * Always find out if what you are instructed to do do fonany one pleasesthem. Do you understand, my boy?” _ ‘I sayvey,” grinned Nick. ‘Be sure you’re right, den go ahead—dat’s me, boss.” At eleven o’clock Joe returned, he haying sold all his stock, ; Extree took the money and introduced him to Mr. Tom, who said that he would do, after which Nick told him to take his place by the sae while he went down to the News Company. During his absence a carpenter arrived with a black walnut news-stand, which he fitted into the niche between the windows. It was a regular plese box, and had evidently been built for the place. Joe eyed him as he fixed the shelves, and when it was completed, Mr. Tom came out to inspect it, then demanded : ‘“Where’s the sign?” ; ‘Oh, I forgot that,” answered the man, sending off his mate for the article. : . “Dis yere’s been put up here before, hasn’t it?” inquired Joe. ‘I remember seein’ ob it——” ust then a man passed, who, noticing the stand, addressed the boy with: ‘ Think yer goin’ to run that?” “ Guess so,” quietly replied the lad. «© Who does it belong to?” asked the fellow. “Extree Nick has got the privilege,” said Joe. The man scowled and passed on. “Do you know who he is?” demanded the car-. penter... : “No,” returned Joe. ; “ He’s the man who busted the last stand here— this one,” whispered the mechanic. ‘“ Heownsa number of stands in this city and Brooklyn, and lets them out. Ifa boy starts an opposition, he inquires into his character; if bad, he has an him out, for no one wants a} : thief keeping a stand in front of their store; if! Nick would walk part of the way home with easy time gettin, good, he writes postal cards and lies them out of i *He’s a derned mean snoozer!” excitedly an- swered Joe. “‘Let him try it on Extree Nick— he’ll get it hot, I tell yer. Yer don’t fool Nick.” “Ts he on the square?” asked the man. eee face was a study of mingled sneer and pity. “Ts Extree square?” he eried. ‘Yet bet heis! Do you think because he’s anewsboy he’s a thief, .| hey? Itell yer, mister, we're a deal honister dan many folks who call themselves politicians. We goes for what we kin decently earn, not what we kin steal.” : The man laughed, and seeing his mate arrive with the sign, dropped the conversation, then recommenced work. : When the newsboy returned to the office ue béheld the stand, above which was ablack board bearing these words: 3 : 4 EXTREE NICK! THE NEW YORK NEWSBOWY Box “Tar Bors’ WEEKLY.’ Joe, sold clear out, was standing behind tho counter, and Mr. Tom was watching him from his private room. ; : Extree smiled, then nodding at his pard, went straight into the outer office and .asked to see Mr. MeNally. ; **Come in, Nick!” said his friend. ‘‘ What do you think of your stand?” The newsboy entered the inner room, but for seyeral moments could not command himself sufficiently to reply; then, when he had overcome his emotion, hoarsely said : ; “ Boss, what has Exizee done to yer dat yer treats him sos yendid ; “Nick!” replied his friend, ‘‘you have been honest, have never forgotten your dead parents, have tried to help yourself; keep on this way and you will succeed.” “Ver bet I will!” fervently answered the lad. “But, Mr, Tom, der rent ob dat stand will take all my profit?” : «The rent?” answered the other. ‘‘ Yes, you will feel more independent if you pay. HExtree— I will charge you two dollars a month, and take it out in papers!” ; “Vl give yor a Herald, daily,” cried the news- boy, “fan der Boys’ WEEKLY, an’——” here ha aused, then said: “* What will yer take for der alance ob der rent?” ; “T’ye some boy and girl friends at my board~- ing-house,” smilingly returned Mr. Tom. ‘ Give me a couple of papers for them?” rg “Tl fix yer!” he laughingly Sieniae: Seely deliver der Boys’ Wrexuy! I tell yer, Mr. Tom, if a boy or gal don’t like dem dere’s somethin’ wrong bout dem kids, an’ yer oughter call in a doctor.” Mr. McNally agreed to this, saying that would be enough, and Nick withdrew to his stand, where he and Jov shook hands. “Ain't it jes’ splendid?” cried his pard. ‘Glass shutters, cupboard for stock, good floor ter keep our feet warm, black walnut. fixings, and yer name as big as life. I tell yer, Extree, it’s just fust-class!” saying which he informed his chum what the carpenter had told him. “‘T knows der, cuss!” said Nick. ‘‘He’s a tall, pale, sick-looking purp; looks as if he’d been swallered by ashark an’ chucked up agin as pis- inous.” rye “Carpenter says he’s dangerous,’ observed oe, : : : Extree chuckled; then pointing to a hand-cart, Bk had just arrived from the News Company, said: i “Dere’s our fust stock, Joo—dump-it in, an’ T’ll stow it; an’ as fur dat boss stand owner, let sin ke his hand at me! Schoo! he can’t fool ick.” oo CHAPTER VI. BUDD KETOHUM. : Extree Nicx’s news-stand made quite a sen- sation in the profession, his friends feeling glad, and his enemies mad, while the boys pitched in and soon gained a good share of trade, ease Joe proved a treasure; and Josie, free from the ill treatment of her parents, grew more beautiful every day. She was living as parlor-maid in a big. house — é: on Madison avenue, so Nick seldom saw her; — but, knowing that she qwas well, rested content. . Sometimes sho would visit Mrs. Rudolph’s, and @" her, .
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EXTREE NICK, ~ 8B oS . . though he never called at tha house where she lived, Every Sunday, after the morning papers were- out, Extree would start for the cemetery, and kneel by his parents’ grave. He said that it did him good, and that he never felt the long, weary, dusty tramp there and back; so week after week passed, and the rose-bushes he had planted lost their leaves, and were protected by him with a covering ofold bass | D. matting, after which the snow came. Strange to say, the man who had asked about Nick, and of whom the carpenter had warned them, never annoyed them, and the boy laugh- ed at the story, but the wretch was on their track. : One day a flashily-dressed young fellow bought 2 sporting paper of Nick, and eutered into con- yergation with him, at length informing the boy ‘that he was a stranger from Philadelphia, and that he was looking fora quiet boarding-house. Being rather taken with him, Extree gave the man the address of his lodging, which was in a street leading off West Broadway, saying: “Guess der lady will board yer; she’s a real améxh woman.” After which he thought no more of it. . About,.noon, as the newsboys were eating their dinner, the young man peeped over the counter, saying: - ‘“T’ve fixed it, Extree; come and take a glass oz lager?” ‘An’ muddle my head for biz?” said Nick,’ glancing up. “No, thankee,” “Tt’s cold, anyhow,” smilingly continued the stranger; ‘(come and take a cup of hot coffee.” Not liking to disoblige, and feeling somewhat chilly, Nick complied, and crossing Broadway, they walked on until they came to a dime res- taurant, where they entered, and his new friend, who'said his name was Budd Ketchum, ordered yolls and milk for twee -. He seemed such a ¢.syer, good-hearted fellow, that Extree took to himand they soon became great friends. c i When they had partaken of their meal they re- turned to the news-stand, and Budd walked in- side, saying that he had plenty of time, and liked to see Joe sell papers; but the latter didn’t cotton to him, and when he was gone told Nick that his friend was a beat. é “Oh, scratch yer ear an’ trot!” grinned Ex- ree. ; foe laughed, but did notifeel happy. It was the first time that his partner had ever taken to an outsider, and the little chap read Budd Ketch- um like a book. Ketchum, who did not seem to. try to get em- ployment, although always talking about it, be- eame quite intimate with Nick, and the latter erally yielded to his fascinating influence. He little thought that the apparently young man was over forty, and that twenty years of his yile life had been spent in prison. The Portable Gas Company prospered, and Tom MeNally visited Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, and California, where he established agencies; meanwhile winter had set in. : Broadway was filled with snow, and, out of business, Budd had become Extree’s constant companion. : Strangely enough several stores near the Gas Oompany’s office were broken into, and the police began to question Nick as to where he went even- ings, but, as he generally stayed at home, his conscience was clear, so he thought no more of their inquiries. . In due time Mr. McNally returned from Cali- fornia, bringing a large amount of specie, which he Sem DOreTny. deposited in the company’s big sate. : That night, upon arriving home, Nick found Budd absent; but ona scrap of paper, inserted Anite strap of his trunk, he discovered these words: s «Come up to Central Park to-night at ight. Outside Central Park Garden. We'll have a good old time with the boys, “Bupp KErcHum.” ‘ Itwas the first time that he had received a note; so he ate his supper and walked up town, Upon reaching the designated spot a man who was-evidently waiting to receive him, said: ‘Budd sent me to. fetch you—this way,” then started for some shanties lower down the avenue, _Extree following as innocent as a lamb. Upon arriving at a tumble-down den, built of old packing cases, he paused, not liking the looks _ of the place. “ Step right in, Budd is there,” said the man, “No, yer don’t,” said Extree, preparing to bolt ; when, in an instant, his guide had him-by the _ throat, and he was thrust into a room among a a of roughs, who grabbed, gagged and bound © Keep still, and we won’t hurt vou,” observed the fellow; ‘if you’ don’t, you'll get your nut cracked.” ; : é Assoon as he was secured the men left, and Nick, being tired, soon fell asleep. Towards daybreak he awoke cold and stiff; however, by dint of chafing his bonds, he freed himself, . It was a cold bright morning—New Year’s ay. ; ‘ Rising, he quitted the hovel, and walked down town, scarcely meeting a soul on the way. On reaching home, he crept up to bed, and did not wake until nine o’clook, when he rushed. off down to his stand. To his horror he found it in the possession ‘of two policemen. * Wot’s der little game?” he said. ‘ “Ts yourname Extree?” demanded one of the cops, ; i Dat’s my rally,” he fearlessly replied. «“ Come inside,” ordered the officer. Extree followed him in, when the man clapped a pair of bracelets on him, saying: “T want you!” ee * CHAPTER VII. SOLD BY THE DETECTIVES. For some moment Extree was dumb with as- tonishmeut. The big iron safe of the company was open and ‘empty. A large hole had been cut from the news- stand into the office, and Nick’s wrists were con- fined in handcuffs. “Fixed you, you darned young skunk !” said the cop, a raw hand from New Jersey. “You lump-headed, lager-lined swill cart!” in- dignantly returned the newsboy; “wot yer mean by servin’ me this way, hey? Ididn’t do this job.” - “Tm a detective!” bullied the man. “Yer a thunderin’ old woman!” said Nick. “Dertective! So help me never, if I couldn’t chalk a better dertective nor you ona wall! What yer dropped on me fur, hey?” “You're a thief!” said the officer. “Yer a liar!”-cried Extree, who was perfectly beside himself with passion, ‘‘It’s just like yer blue points—yer kean’t see an inch afore yer swell- ed noses! Yer got perlitical influence an’ a long coat, wid a lotob buttons on it, an’ a locust shoved inter ye fist, an* den yer walks roun’ an’ chums wid sports an’ thieves; an’ when dere’s a robbery yer grabs a boy! Oh, yer a bully dertective !” Just then Joe arrived from up town, where he had been to summons Mr, MeNally. th Nick was indignant, his partner was raving mad, “\hat yer ‘bout a ironing, Extree?” he de- manded. “Oh, dry up,” growled the cops. ‘ We'll fix you if you don’t.” c While they were speaking, Mr, Tom arrived, and, upon seeing what had taken place, he almost fainted, saying: _ F “T am ruined 1” : : The morning papers had been all sold by Joe, who, on opening the stand, had discovered the burglary. He had, however, not been to the store cupboard, and now, on trying the lock, found that it had been forced. Opening the door he beheld, packed snugly, six | measure boxes—the contents of the big safe— but their stock of pupers had vanished. ««There it—it—it—it is!” he excitedly stuttered. «There, Mr. Tom, there’s your money boxes.” ° “You don’t say,” cried Mr, McNally; but, sure enough, there werethe exact number. “Our mags and stock have yamoosed,” said “T see der thieves have not had time ter: Joe, take der heavy boxes. They’ve waltzed off wid our papers, and left de sugar behind dem,” As he was speaking the president of the com- pany arrived with three detectives. He was a fussy old man, who usually left every- thing to Mr. McNally; but now he took chargeina most muddle-headed fashion; and, treating Ex- | tree as a culprit, began to hadger him most un- mercifully, saying: “‘Thelieve that you are at the bottom of this business.” : : “Yer out on der first base, boss!” quietly an- swered Nick. * “Vd stake my life on his honesty!” said Mr. ‘om, “Where were one of the detectives. ‘Where do you live—hey?” bullied another. “What have you done with the stuff you re- moved from your locker?” asked. a third, where- upon Extree turned his back on them, saying; “Oh, take another clove, wipe out that fly speck, use your nose rag—find out! Ye’ll make yer mother ery if yer exhibits any more oy yer derned ignorance?” seh pares you last nigh night?” demanded) “T see!” knowingly observed the first detective. “Spiker, go and search his room |” . Yes, go, Spiker!” jeered Nick;)‘‘go an’ take anodder dertective wid yer? Go all three ob yer an’ find der man dat killed Nathan, der sport as kidnapped Charley. Ross, and der inderwidual dat struck Billy Patterson! Goand call on Bilk Tweed an’ borrowa stamp or two. Yer call yer- selves dertectives; why any newsboy in New York will buy yerat one end ob derstreet an’ sell - yer at de odder!” “That will do, Nick,” observed Mr. Tom, “TI know. you’re innocent!” : «Sorry | spoke!” murmured Extree. » “This lad,’’ said the president of the company, ‘isa very saucy fellow! Mr. McNally, you talk- ed to me about buying me out. I will remain until I haye punished this fellow, when I will send to you.” : The company consisted of the inventor,* who acted as president, and Tom, who had invested a legacy in the patent, and it was a genuine suc- cess. ; : Ina few moments the detectives returned load- ed with weeklies, magazines, and other papers, “ees they had found secreted under Extree’s bed. « You were out all night,” saial the chief officer, ‘‘and arrived home about six o’clock this morn- ing!” : : pia. . “Tknow I was!” cried Nick. “I was sold by a bogus letter,an’ set on by a crowd in a shanty on Sixth avenue, an’ tied.” ‘ “Oh, we understand,” sneered the detective; then, turning to the officers, bade them take Ex- tree to the Police Court, City Hall. “Come, walk right along,” said the cop, who had tried to pass himself off as a detective, but Extree laid down and refused to budge; so they: were compelled to take him across to the police court, whete a magistrate, who had been “‘visit- ing,” said: . : : “T commit him for trial,” and would not hear a word that the boy had to offer in defense. - As they led him from the room, Joe whispered: ‘* Eixtree, yer didn’t doit—I know yer-didn’t!” “Joo,” he replied, ‘go an’ sée Josie, an’ tell her dat dese mush-headed dertectives have sworn my liberty away; and tell Budd Ketchum dat I’m innocent!” Then, seeing Mr. Tom, he asked: “Yer don’t think I’m guilty, do-yer, boss?” ~ ‘Tn my heart, no!” ase ly answered the gen- tleman. “I cannot think you would commit such a crime, Nick; but appearances are greatly against you.” “his way,” said a policeman, grasping him by the collar. “You needn’t actso green. The de- tectives have been watching you for weeks; and Tye seen you here a dozen times!” “Seed me here afore?” gasped poor Extree, «“ Why——” but, ere he could finish the sentence, he was thurst into a cell, and the key turned on him. Raising his hands aloft, he cried: ‘‘ Mother! mother! yer see how dey have served yer kid! Won’t you ask der angels ter smile on me; yer know I’s innocent, an’ jes’ so sure as I live Pll find der burglar an’ bust dem lyin’ dertectives 1” CHAPTER VIIT. A MOST UNJUST VERDICT. “*New Yuar’s Day, an’ in a jug!” said Nick, aa the warden’s clock struek ‘f one.” ! “There’s a gal wants to see you !” growled & keeper, peeping in at the wicket. “Ont you come, if you wish to see her.” igi . Extree followed his jailer through the corridor and into a waiting-room, where he beheld Josie sobbing as though her heart would break, while awh) Joe Rudolph was doing his best to comfort or. ‘‘Here’s the prisoner!” said the turnkey. ‘“Now you’d best be eich as you're only allowed fifteen minutes’ chat!’ i Seeing Nick, Josie rushed tewards him, saying: ‘‘Extree, you’re innocent! I know you are; - yet, because I said so and wished to come to cheer, you up, the lady where I live has told me to pack. and leave !” with which she took both of his hands, and glancing doxingly through: her tears, added : ** But, ’'d be turned away from a hundred places before I’d go back on“you, Extree.” ; This made the newsboy’s eyes moisten, and- failing to find words, he drew the pretty girl to- wards him and right before the keeper and Joe, kissed her, whereupon the man wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, saying a) rie ““Where’s my share, sis?” earing which, Nick smiled and observed : “ oe “Yer share ‘is looking on. That’s all you'll get;” and turning to the girl, inquired: “ Where are you going, Josie?” , : Eee ees S + “To Mrs. Rudolph’s,” she replied,‘ Don’t “y
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6 EXIRLE WICK. ou worry ’bout me, Extree. I can get along. ’m going to see you through—that is, I and Joe ~—ain’t we, Joe?” 5 “Yer bet,” answered his pard. . “Time’s up,” said the turnkey, turning to Nick. “Now then, number one hundred and three, back you go.” “Yer just a hundred and two out,” checked Extree. find me so before long. I’m innercint, an’ dere’s goin’ ter be a muss "bout dis.” “ Muss?’ sneered the man. “‘ Why, thedetect- ives have evidence enough to send you up for life. You can’t get over that.” ‘*Oan’t 1?” grinned Extree, as he bade them good afternoon. ‘‘ Yer bet Nick’ do der trick.’ ‘“« Hixtree,” whispered Joe. “Mr. Tom says we're to keep right on wid der stand.” “He's a good man,” said our hero, ‘ Adoo, Joe;” then, smiling, followed his jailer. For six weeks Extree languished in the Tombs, during which time he was often visited by Budd Ketchum, who made him promise not to inform Josie or Joe that he received, any visitors but themselves. _. : ‘Yer plead guilty,” Budd would urge. ‘Der judge will let yer off easy on yer fust offense.” But Extree didn’t see it in that light; mean- while, the repeated visits of the sport were re- corded against Nick. At length the day of trial came, and Extree was wager at the bar, where he plead ed: Not guilty; ’cos yer see, fudge, I didnt do it.” me. ion that caused the judge to say: . “Not guilty, prisoner?” f “Thank yer, judge,” joyfully ejaculated the newsboy, believing that his trial was somehow over, but the judge frowned, saying: “‘ Prisoner at the bar, I merely instructea you that your plea was irregular,” hearing which, Extree muttered : $ metas you’ye got me, jedge,” and then sub- sided. Mr. Tom MeNally had furnished, or, rather, feed a counsel for Nick, but the lawyer had never taken the trouble to call on the boy and learn his story, so he was of very little use. The President of the Gas Company, who was down upon Extree, gave his evidence; and Mr. Tom, who had bought out the president, and now owned all the shares in the concern, testified to Nick’s honesty ;. then came several detectives, who swore that they knew him, to be the com- panion of thieves, and that for months they had suspected him, placing the boss news-stand man in the chair. to testify that-he had warned them about the lad, andaltogether making out a very black case against poor Extree, who, in his just indignation, frequently desired to cross-question the witnesses, but was stopped uy his own coun- sel, while the lattar, in the lad’s defense, pleaded the youth of his client. ; “Blame it!” muttered Nick, “I’m nearly six- teen! One would think, to hear him chin, dat I was a babby.” EY Unfortunately, Extree had only Mr. Tom to speak for him, é The judge, a fat, overfed person, who looked like the keeper of a policy shop, complimented the detectives upon the way in which they had worked up the vase, then addressing the jury, paid: . ; ‘Gentlemen: Your verdict is simple enough. This boy, who,by the evidence of the police, is an old and well-known criminal, after being treat- éd like a friend by McNally, one of the prosecu- tors, plans to rob his benefactor, and acually uses the news-stand bought for his benefit, by that kind friend, as a cover by whieh to plunder the Good Samaritan.” j 4 . Hearing this, Bxtree’s face flushed, and raising his voice, he said: : “That theer’s a derned lie, jedge !”’ “Si-lence |” bellowed the usher: and when the laugh subsided, the annoyed judge continued : You hear, gentlemen of the jury, what sort of a young rowdy the prisoner is. I now ask you to consider him guilty gr not guilty.” Whereupon the intelligent jurymen awoke toa senso of their responsibility, and returned a verdict of: “ Guilly 2? : t ‘Prisoner at the bar,” bullied the judge, “‘ what haye you to say why sentence should not be passed upon you?” when Extree replied : “Say? Why I’ve got everything ter say! Dem dertectives hev regler given me away. — Dey’s in der Rey, ob dat boss stand-owner. Yer kean’t fool Nick!” “That will do, that will do!” snapped the judge; ‘TI sentence you to five years imprison- ment,” ; : hs * « Five years!” gasped the poor lad, while Josie, who was in the ody of the court, uttered a heart- rending cry and fainted, and Joe piped in his shrilltreble: : th, in emir, “Shame!” He’s as innercent as yor are!” ‘‘T’m number one, Mister, an’ yer’ll |. “Usher,” directed the judge, ‘‘discover the individual who made that remark;” but, though the man scowled and bullied. he failed to detect the culprit. When the disturbance had somewhat subsided, Mr. McNally rose, saying: ‘Will your honor permit me to make a re- mark?” . ; ‘Yes, if you’re brief!” snarled the judge. Mr. Tom was very pale and eyidently meant business. The verdict had not surprised him, but the sentence had. “Your honor,” he said, ‘*I was compelled to ae aa this unfortunate boy; the law and my ate partner gave me no alternative. Atthe same time, I no more believe that he committed the erime, than that you wish to be unjust in sen- tencing him to degradation.” Then, seeing that his words told, briefly sketched Extree’s life — his devotion to his dead father and mother, and his love for their memory, winding up with: “Your honor, the humble graye of this poor newsboy’s parents, above which this honest lad planted those touching emblems of his love, is a better witness than those blunderers, who, calling themselves detectives, have leagued to crush Ex- tree Nick! We have good detective officers in this city, but those whisky-soaked ex-criminals,” pointing to the witnesses, ‘fare not worthy of the name they have assumed !” The judge, startled by this noble speech, thought for a moment, then observed : _ “Twill remit four years of his sentence, and commit him to the Reformatory.” As Mr. McNally passed him, Extree said: **God bless yer, boss! I’ll clear myself some day an’ expose dem lyin’ dertectives, CHAPTER Ix. A MOST JUST VERDICT. WHEN an innocent pérson is committed to pris- on he is not a criminal, but a martyr. Sees enough, after Extree was pronounced guilty, the public began to take an interest in him, and a legal gentleman, named Russell, offered his services to obtain a new trial. “Yer mighty kind, boss,” said Nick. ‘‘’Pears ter mé der world’s changin’, or, Extreo’s got more friends den he knowed of. Yer see Josie Perry an’ Joe Rudolph an’ dey’ll tell yer suthin’. The lawyer, a young man of gentle mein and uiet address, one of the best fellows in New ork, bade the lad keep up his courage as he had applied for a new trial; then smilingly withdrew, leaving the newsboy feeling mighty good, : In a few days Josie called and told him that they had a clew, and that Budd Ketchum was suspected, “Budd!” heeried; “surely,no! Why, I loaned ai money, an’ helped him; yer must be wrong, osie.” ; Z “No, Lain’t,” she replied. ‘Joe and I have found it out, and the lawyer says he'll clear you sure.’ “Where is Budd?” mused Extree. ‘ Head- wised me ter plead guilty !” “Vamoosed !” she answered; then taking his hand said: “‘Extree, Mr, McNally told Joe that if you didn’t mind, I might attend the news-stand. He says it would take, as gentlemen always pre- fer to deal with a girl!” : : *Perticler such a pooty un as yer are, Josie,” he smilingly observed, adding in an undertone, “so yer was at der bottom ob der biz—hey, me noble Budd?” “Pxtree,” she said, ‘if that man wasn’t here, do you know what ’'d do?” ~ “Josie,” hesaucily replied, ‘* ef dat man wasn’t lookin’, d’yer know what T’d do?” Then, wink- ing slyly, added: ‘‘I don’t know whether Tl give my consent ter yer mining der news-stand ; some swell or another might want ter run off wid yer?” when she quickly remarked : “Shoo fly, don’t bodder me! ‘The only swéll I care for is a scamp named Extree Nick 1” ‘Well, Josie,” he said, “yer kin take my place; fur, even when IT a this, I’m not goin’ ter enter der old stand until I brings dem dertectives an’ other fellers’ noses to der grindstone. Dey’ve hunted me down, and I’m goin’ ter hunt dem.” «“Time’s up,” said the warden, a fatherly man, who felt for Extree. “Now, my dear,” address- ing Josie, ‘‘you must withdraw ;” then turning his back, gave them an opportunity for a sly kiss.. In the hewsboy’s cell were two thieves, who did their best to corrupt him, but the remem- brance of his parents kept him pure, and he paid no‘heed to his companions. ~~ At length the day of his second trial arrived, and when the detectives, whose names were Piper, Snell and Green, had repeated their evi- dence and the ease for the prosecution was closed, Mr. Russell rose and called Extree’s landlady, | who deposed to the fact of seeing a strange man arrive at her house with a package, and of watch- * dd ing him stow the contents under the mattress of Nick’s bed. “How did you see this?” demanded the record- er, on which the woman whispered : : “J peeped through a crack in the door,” This reply created a roar of laughter, which was renewed when Extree said: — “Dats jes’-like her; she’s a reglar peeper!” whereupon she retorted: \* “T shouldn’t see anything if I didn’t, Nick !”” A host of testimony followed to prove that the office was broker into by professional thieves. ‘*“Who procured these witnesses?” inquired the recorder. ‘‘ Why were they not summoned at the first trial?” ‘Your honor,” said Mr. Russell, ‘the first trial was conducted by the detectives, and was a bur- lesque upon justice The prisoner owes his es- cape from unjust TO CO to a small boy named Joe Rudolph, his partner in the news bus- iness, who, believing in Extree’s innocence, has worked day and night to obtain evidence to clear his friend.” , ‘ “He is a very noble boy,” obseryed the judge, who then proceeded to charge the jury. When his speech was ended, the foreman turn to his companions and whispered to each: “* Well?” Whereupon all replied: * Not guilty !” Having ascertained all of their opinions he smiled, bowed to the recorder, and said ina loud, clear tone: “Our verdict is Not Gurnry;” adding, ‘and we deeply regret that the poor boy should have been detained so long in prison!” | ~~ “Nicodemus Newcome,” said the judge, “the jury has pronounced you innocent of the ¢rime for which you once have been condemned to im- prisonment! In their verdict I most cordially agree. You leave this court an honest newsboy, without a stain or blame upon your character, My opinion is you have,tsan the victim of a foul conspiracy. I shall be’*eased to assist you in any way |” ey ‘ “Yowre right, jedge—your honor—I mean!” replied Extree, who felt as proud as a boss rooster. ‘I’ve been innercent all der time. I’m goin’ ter start a paper route up town, an’ if yer’ll take yer daily literatoor from me and recommend me.ter yer neighbors, I’ll serve yer punctocal ;” and smiling added, ‘‘ an’ if yer’ve got any boys an’ gals, yer should order der Boys’ WEEKLY. Alllive boys an’ gals take de paper.” Then, amia loud cheers from the spectators, bowed and seh the dock, confronting Josie, Joe, and Mr. 4 eae who warmly congratulated him on his vin- ication, j As they turned to depart, the recorder said: *“Where is the boy, Joe Rudolph?” 5 “Here,” replied Mr. Russell, bringing Joo to he fore, 5 : “Rudolph,” said the judge, “I must compli- ment you upon the way in which you have ferreted. out the evidence required to clear your friend.” When Joe blushed, ducked his head, and giving a back nod at Josie, said: : “Seuse me, boss! It wan’t me, it was dat yer young lady, I only did as she told me. She’s got a head on her I tell yer—boss! She knowed my pard was innercent—” } The judge smiled at his frank explanation, and calling Josie nearer to him, said that she ought to be a man, as she would shame any ordinary detective, when Extree whispered: **T’d much rader Josie remains as she is.” By permission of the recorder, a number of ladies in the court subseribed, and presented Josie with asum of money, which they handed to Mr. Russell for her acceptance; meanwhile, Extree, the girl and Joe had retired into a private room. : Closing the door, our hero addressed his true. friends, saying : ; “How kin I thank yer?” *T know,” grinned little Joe, walking to the window and endeavoring to choke down his emotion, while Josie averted her head. Moving quickly to her side, Extree softly whispered: : : . “Josie, dear, yer’ve bina true, good chum allus. I don’t know how to repay yer,” when she turned her bright, tear-bedewed eyes upon him, and sig- nificantly pursed her cherry lips. — Taking the hint, Extree ‘tasted the honéy;” then was about to repeat the dose, when one of the detectives entered, and, noticing their con- fusion, sneered : } : ; “ Caught you, hey, newsboy?” Hearing which, Nick made a gesture of contempt; saying: Caught us? Pooh! Why don’t yer ketch der Nathan murderer an’ der skunks as stole poor little Charley Ross? Oh, scratch yer ear, an trot; erll be caught before long at suthin’ worse’n kissin’? , ; 4 £ d “ al oy
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3 CHAPTER X. BXTREE NICK RESUMES BUSINESS. THERE was great rejoiting among the newsboys when Extree was pronounced not guilty. During the first trial a few of the lads had contrived to obtain admission to the court, but upon the occa- sion of the boy’s’ acquittal the place was so ram- jam full of ladies that “der fellers”” had no show. However, when the word was received at the “ newspaper Offices that Extree Nick was free, a ‘swarm of his acquaintances rushed down tv the sourt-house, and, seeing Mr. Russell, cried; ““Tree cheers fur Nick’s lawyer!” “As their “rahs”, died away, Mr. McNally. camo down the steps, whereupon the. boys gave him a‘ chilute,” as they termed it, causing Tom to smile, and say: ; “Thank you, my sons; but I really don’t under- stand why you should cheer me.” » “Yer stuck ter Extree Nick!” shouted Big Jemmy. _ Yer didn’t go back on der boy ’eos he sold pa- Pex cried another; and amid similar cries Mr. ‘om hurried across the park and proceeded to his office. . _. By that time all the newsboys and bootbiacks operating within a mile of the City Hall were in the crowd awaiting Ixtree’s appearance, Big Jemmy acting as boss of the party. © In a little while Joe straggled out, followed by Extree, hand in hand with Josie. . This set the newsboys wild, and caused them to break out into a roar of welcome; hearin which Josie relinquished her hold of Nick’s han: and was about to retire, when the boy recaptured it and, winking at the sea of upturned faces, said; «Dey didn’t fool Nick 1” ae of) rah—rah ‘Tiger!’ yelled the crowd. “Bully for yer, Ext gil Bully for yer, Josie!” The girl had’ no Set tpt them, for she knew al-. most every face; so-smiling, she observed, in a good, clear yoice: . “And bully for little Joe Rudolph !” ; “Ye-al” they roared. ‘Right yer are, Josie! Bully fur Joo! Where's the little cuss got ter?” ‘Here he is!” shouted a tall fellow among the newsboys, jerking Joe off his feet and lifting him upon his own shoulder. As they were descending tho steps, a bootblack rushed forward, saying: “Lemme give ae a shine, Extree! It'll bring rie AUG 1” So Nick paused, in order to humor © boy. 5 “Yer don’t look a ‘Tombs 1” said Hae emmy. ; “Worse!” quickly answered Josie; ‘ of course due doesn’t; he was innocent!” “‘See any murderers in dere?” demanded an- other acquaintance; whereupon Extree grinned und said : vO ; «No, bub, I wasn’t in fur killin’ a feller creetur, #0 dey didn’t put mein der row!” oan * Unluckily just then the three detectives, Piper, Snell and Green; came out of the building, and, in lieu of walking off quietly, they made use of some offensive remark about Sosie, pit der worse fur bein’ in der “Yer low bummers!” said Extree. “If yer eider of yer!” Aadn’t dat uniform on I’d wip “We'll have you yet!” said Snell. “Oh, scratch yer ear an’ trot, all free ob yer!” answered the boy. ‘‘ Yer don’t fool Nick 1” Who’s dem cops, anyhow?” excitedly in- quired Big Jemmy. : “Dem!” laughed Extree, ‘ why, boys, take a 00d look at ’em; dem’s der der-tectives dat give me away on der fust trial!” “Yah—ah—ah!? hooted the crowd, moving menacingly towards the officers and making demonstrations of a téndency to assault ‘them; secing which Extree quitted Josie for a moment, and, elbowing himswlf before the boys, shouted: Es Drop it, chums! Don’t hurt der poor little -fellers! I wouldn’t touch ’em. If yer wait a lit- tle time you'll see ’em goin’ to der Island in der Black Maria!” a remark which caused the offi- cers to turn white with passion, and to draw their locusts. : L : “Put up yer strikers! shouted the boys. «We won't hurt yer!’ Yar—yar—yar! Go home an’ tell yer mothers you’ve bin seared by a few _newsboys!” _ : R : Seeing that if they advanced they stood a ehance of being hooted all the way up town, the datectives retired to the police-station where they applied to thé superintendent for protection, Awhilé Extree rejoined Josie, and was saelebaat her towards the news-stand, when a ragged la rushed up to the crowd which still followed Nick, saying: oe : : «Scoot b’ys! Der Lelegram is gettin’ a extree * out! Full *count ob de trial!” Rie “Scouse me, Josie!” said Nick, warming at the ‘sound; then leaving her to return to the stand, darted down town followed by his gang; Joo Vs ~ oe EXTREE NICK. Rudolph being triumphantly carried to the very door of the delivery office. Having the money that the ladies had sub- seribed for Josie in his pocket, Extree bought checks for two hundred papers, alter which he joined the crowa about the delivery counter. “Make way fur Extree!” they cried, and Big Jemmy, who was in the front rank, shouted : ‘©Chuck yer check down here, Nick.” Then addressing the clerk, said: ‘Two hundred fur ee Mind, he must have der fust lot ter- paren . Presently down came & stack of the edition, wet from the presses, and Jemmy succeeded in obtaining the number that our hero required. Pitching the damp mass over the heads of the crowd, he landed it in Nick’s arms, crying: ** Der yer are, bub; yer kin go an’ shout, fulle count ob yer own innercince!” then turned and scrambled for his own stock. ; Peeling off about fifty ofthe papers for Joe, he tossed them to him, saying: z “Down town yer git, pard—Wall street ”— after which, throwing the heavy heap over his left shoulder, he rushed up Broadway, never peels until he reached his stand, where sat osie. Throwing down the load before her, he cried: “Hold ’em 1” «+ by < ““Bxtree, you may deliver’ the New York Herald, Fimes, Tribune, World, and Sun to me daily, and two evening papers.” : * Dat’s a bully order !” cried the delighted hews- boy. . “Dont yer honor want some weeklies?” ““You can supply me with the two best illus- trated journals,” laughingly replied the judge, ‘and T’ll recommend your boys’ papers, for, if they’re* like you, they must be live affairs and free from harm.” ‘© Yer bet they are!” murmured Extreé, and in another minute the carriage was rattling up Broadway. : - EB} Making a mental note of his order, he started down-town, and, on arriving at the news-stand, handed Josie the money he had received, saying: “* Josie, I know yer feels above taking anything from me free, so yer kin put this money inter de concern, as yer hafe of der inwestment. Der ladies gave yer fifty dollars, an’ der hundred odd extrees I’ve sold haye fetched seyen dollars ten_ —add what yer an’ Joe have sole ter dat an’ jerk it inter der till, an’ after dis we'll all have alike.” ' « Extree,” she blushingly began, “ I only came here for a little time,” when he stopped her, ~ saying: “Cheese it, Josie. Yer jes’ made fur dis biz. If yer say no, I'll never smile again. We'll have a new sign painted ter read, ‘ Extree, Josie an’ be? 3 Then entering the office, tossed a paper to Mr. | Joe Tom, saying: ** Here’s der result ob der business, boss.” After which he withdrew, and standing outside the stall, for he had vowed never to enter it un- tilthe thieves were brought to justice, began to help Josie. hile they were thus ee BmIOTe ds Mr, Tom seized’ a marking-brush and a large card, upon which he wrote: EXTRA!!! FULL ACCOUNT OF THE SECOND TRIAL OF ‘ EXTREE NICK, THE NEW YORK NEWSBOY! EXTREE NOT GUILTY, LEAVES THE COURT WITHOUT A STAIN ON HIS NAME, A FOUL CONSPIRACY! NOBLE CONDUCT OF THE NEWSGIRL .JOSIN, AND OF THE NEWSBOY JOE! JOY OF THE NEW YORK NEWSBOYS. He finished this just as the boy and girl had folded their last paper, and, as he excitedly nailed the notice on the front of the stand, Josie, who was loading Nick with the extras, flushed with eet and modesty,jwhile our hero, after hurried- y glancing atit, rushed up Broadway, crying: “Yar—here yar extree! Fulle ’count of der *quittal ob Extree Nick, der newsboy! Dertec- tives’ evidence higher den a kite! Yar—here yar extree, flye cents,” A CHAPTER XI. ‘ EXTREE, JOSIE AN’ JOE. Fouxs were so much interested about Extree’s trial, that they didn’t mind five and even ten cents for a paper, so the hoy was soon relieved of his load. As he reached the last copy he beheld the re- | corder, who was riding home in his carriage. © Darting into the middle of the road, the news- boy ran py the side of the vehicle, Shouting: —~ “Yar, here yer extree! Fulle ’count of der {ie verdict by Judge Rackett!” when checking nis coachman, and stopping the carriage, the recorder said: — “Giye me a copy, Extree.” “Dat’s der last one, yer honor!” said Nick, handing him the paper. “Glory to God, I kin sell it yer!” ; $ The judge smiled, and, opening his wallet, handed the lad a dollar, saying: ~~ “You may keep the change! Itis not every day that I can purchase a paper from a boy who, but an hour or two before, was an innocent pris- Oner at the bar,” “Thank yer honor!” warmly replied the news- boy; “yer honor won’t think it mean ’cos I didn’t offer ter give yer der extree, will yer? I was ’fraid yer’d think 7 wanted to insult yer fur | doin’ yer duty!” adding, with a twinkling eye, “besides, yer honor, nobody’s safe now-a-days, an’ some bummer might see yer take der paper | free, gratis, though gracious knows, I’d’ give yer a hull sheet if yer’d let me, but it’s best ter be on der right side ob der street now-a-days.” The recorder laughed heartily at this smart speech, then handed him his card, saying: — foie: Her eyes sparkled merrily as she replied: VT pass. Ican’t do anything with you, Ex- tree.” . “Good enough,” he said, then entered the coe company’s Office, and’ asked to see Mr. cNally. : “Come on,” cried Mr. Tom, who was_prepar- ing to leave for the day. “Seat yourself, Extree,” Nick perched 6n the edge of a chair and began: “Boss, yer’ve been awful kind ter Extree.” ‘Will you please tadk about something else?” said Mr. Tom, endeayoring to Epeak sternly. “Tm going to dine with Mr. Russell, and do not wish to have my temper ruffled. Have you done as you said you would and taken Josie into part- nership?” $ sf _ “Yes, boss,” he grinned, * I’ve done more; I’ve told her ter give Joean equal share ob der biz, an’ she put in her. money, Der firm’s ter be called, Extree, Josie an’ Joe, an’ we're all equal, free an’ alike, I tell you, boss, you’ye been dreadful good ter Extree.”, “Nicodemus Newcome,” said Mr. Tom, with mock gravity, ‘do you wish to make me mad?” No}, boss,” he answered, « ‘I won’t say another word about yer kindness; but I must tell rae one thing.” : ' Then pausing, as though thinking, murmured :- . “Verve bin dreadful good ter me, so yer hev, an’ I’d die fur yer!” after. which remembering himself, he blushed and gazing at Mr. Tom, smil- ingly observed: _ . : : “Dere, boss, now I’m done, so far as sayin’ any more ter yer bout yer goodnsss; but yer hey bin awful good, yer know.” if “ Pxtree,” said*his friend) “ what is this I kear about your vow never to enter the news-stand?” “It means this, boss,” he said, fumbling his cap With his hands. “ When I was a conwicted prisoner I swore by der mem’ry ob my poor father an’ mother, dat if T got free widout dem burglars an’ dertective getting deir dose, I’d never enter dat news-stand until I brought deir noses to der grindstone; an’ IF must keep my word, boss, L kin run der masheen, but, until I see dent cusses where I was, kean’t enter dat stand. Extree never goes back on his word !” : 4 *“You’re right,” said Mr. Tora; combing: his hair. “Stick to that, Nick; remember ‘ Venge- ance is mine,’ Said-the Lord.” | 5 j ‘I know,” smilingly replied the newsboy. I ain’t going ter seek revenge, but ter’be dermeans of bringing dem jockies ter justice! Dey shan’t fool Nick for nothing !” ‘ 3 Mr. Tom laughed, then remarked: “You can do as you please, Nick, but, take my adyice, don’t be like the dog in the fable, lose the substance for the shadow. Stick to your extra and. regular newspaper biz, and some day, you ~ will jaugh at what the detectives haye done.” “hanks to yer, boss; I kin laughat’em now,” - he réplied. ““‘Yer’ye bin a real good friend ter — me—{—I—I mean I,”—then grinning, added: “Taint no kind er use, Mr. Tom; I’m chock full ob thanks right up to der root ob my tongue, an’ it’s got ter come, or I shall bust! Dern it, it’s hard to tell a:feller he shanft say he’s grateful arter he’s had so much kindness from yer. Isay this now, an’ I shall allus say it, yer'a bully man, _ an’ I hope some day ter show yer dat a newsboy kin do suthen’ more’n say—thank yer ‘«Extree,” quietly remarked Mr, Tom, who found that if he did not change the topic of eon- versation Nick would keep on thanking him, ‘aa SU YOU TOV eI OSL6 Lee carotene ean . tice
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~ Syn?” deman s EXTREE NICK. “Why d’yer arxe me, boss?” quickly returned the lad. “T have a reason,”’ was his friend’s rejoinder. The newsboy softly closed the door leading out into the office, then whispered: ; ** Boss, Josie is an angel! Yer don’t know how good she is. Yer remember when she sold der extrees fur me, dat night me father died?” Tom motioned assent, whereupon the boy con- tinued: ‘7 felt kinder drawered ter Josie dat night; fur,” here Extree’s eyes filled with tears, ‘ fur, *tore I knowed yer, she seemed der only real friend I had, not but what der boys wasn’t kind. Do Llove her? Well, don’t know zackaly what yer means by dat, boss. I love piean doughnuts, ‘but I’m dead gone on Josie. I could eat her, boss, she’s so good. I’m real downright mashed on her, fur ter me she’s all dore’s left of my father an’ mother,” Then noticing that Mr. Tom looked puzzled, added:. “T jes’ feels dat dey sometimes talks ter me through her, Love her? Yea, love’s a bully word. Yer bet I love her, boss.” ‘* Fiver tell her so?” said his friend. “Tell ’er, boss?” he laughed. ‘ Well, dat’s a good joke. ‘Why, no; but,” here he winked, “bless yer, she knows it, thous we never talks about it. We ain’t old enough, boss,” and he quitted the office. “Good! yery good!” said the gentleman, as though thinking aloud, ‘‘and yet they say that poor children are always vicious.” CHAPTER XII. JOE GOES ADRIFT. Exrrne told Josie what he had said to Mr. Tom, but did not inform her oftheir conversation with regard to his being in love. As they were chatting, Mrs. Rudolph came np, sere. t ¢ as to see you’ve got justice, Nick. Where’s my Joe?” “He ought ter be here,” answered the boy. “Hoe went down ter Wall street wid a lot of ex- trees, but must haye sold out long sie Guess pee gone straight home; he’s ben on feet all ay.’ ; * “Won't you come and take supper with us?’ urged the good woman. “I’ve been expecting you every minute since I heard the news.’ “ll run down town and see if I kin find Joe,” said Nick, ‘‘ Perhaps he’s got excited over sell- in’, an’ gone in fur three or four editions. I'll bring him home if he’s dere.” Assisting Josie to close the stand, the boy loos- ened the sign, and, wrapping it in an old newspa- er, Poresace down town to a by-street off roadway where lived a sign-painter named McCuff. : Climbing several dingy flights of stairs, he pres- ently arrived at a battered door, leading to a shanty built on the roof of the house; then, en- tering the apartment, saluted a lad, who was at work ona tin sign, with: _ “Hello, MeCufft; how yar, son?” “Tm so so,” replied the painter; ‘ that is, I’m ‘dorned tired; bin ter Greenwood. Glad ter hear yee got clear off. So der boys give yer a recep- Jon dis afternoon, hey?” yer know, if ye’ve bin over in Brook- ed Extree, proud to think that the good news had traveled so rapidly. “Becos’ I saw yer pard, Joe, over dere,” an- swored the painter, “‘and he told me yer was free again.” “Joe?” interrogated Nick. Brooklyn?” : : “Yea,” returned McCuff, who had once been a newsboy. ‘‘I guess l know every. b’y in der ole perfesh, Course it was Joe, an’ he was follerin’ _ & feller and a gal.” ‘ “Joo was? Shoo! Yer don’t fool Nick wid dat “ How der “Joe over in 7 “yarn.” “Yer needn’t believe it,” snap the painter. “But it’s so derned strange!” said tree. “Why should Joe be oyer in feller and a gal?” ““P’raps he is mashed on the lady,” grinned McCuff, seizing a dust brush and dusting the superfluous Dutch metal off the sign.- ‘She was rayther a pooty gal, and kinder seemed afraid of der feller. ~ _ Extree scratched his head, and, seating him- self, muttered: “Pmeeuchred.” _ ; ~ After a pause, the painter said: ; i “What yer want done wid yer sign, Nick?” ~ rooklyn follerin’ a ~~ “Temme think,” said our hero, gazing up at yer emme } Rose eas ** this is Tec strange. D now the name of the fellow wid der gal?” ' The painter shook his head, saying: f = § « » ere fae «Never saw der sport afore.” “Sport!” cried Extree, “sport. Had he a small mustache and a kinder pooty face?” “He had no hair on his mug,” answered the other. ‘‘I looked mostly at the gal, who, as I said afore, seemed scared like.” J In vain Nick tried to~ gain a more exact de- scription. All that McCuff knew was that Joe was shadowing a feller anda girl, and that, as he passed. him, the-boy had whispered: “‘ Extree has got clear off.” See here, Mac,” said Nick, producing his sign, ‘I want yer to repaint this in prime style.” “oWhat d’yer want on it?” inquired the artist, picking up a smalll order book, and seizing a pencil, “T want yer to put,” said our hero, ‘ Extree, Josie an’ Joe, Newsvenders. All respectablé pa- ers kin be bought here. Buy der Boys’ WEEKLY, it’s the best paper out.” 4 “ Anything’ else?” demanded the painter, biting the lead of his pencil. “That's enough ain’t it?” said Nick, who was still thinking about Joe. “Yer see the old biz is ts inter a company; treasurer, Miss Josie erry.”” * Yor mashed dere, aint yer?” smilingly in- quired McCuff, “ Git out,” retorted our hero “ what made yer think ov such foolishness? Gold letters ona black sign, an’ mind yer spell it kerrict!” with which he winked at the painter, and, as he with- drew inquired : “What street did yer say yer saw Joe in?” “On der main road right ober by Gowanus Creek,’ answered Mac. ‘‘Seemed’s though they were going out ter Greenwood.” “How long will yer be fixin’ dat shingle?” said ees as he laid his hand upon the hasp of the atch. «Give it ter yer ter-morrer,” returned the artist. “Take it round to der stan’ an’ ax der treas- urer ter pay yer,” replied Extree. Then down-stairs he went, and on reaching the street, started for South Ferry, The boat was crowded, and it was with diffi- culty that he worked his way to. the bow. It was the first night of freedom, and, as the craft plowed its way across the water, Extree drank in the balmy May air, and, but for his anx- jety with regard to Joe, would have thoroughly én, ered the scene, hen the boat arrived at the Brooklyn shore, he jumped, and, landing upon the floating stage, darted up the incline. Then springing upon a car marked “ Green- wood,” seated himself just inside the door; the vehicle filling and starting right away. ; On arriving near Gowanus Creek, he alighted and began to inquire about Joe; asking boys and people working on the roadside. At length he met a lad named Boss-eyed Sam, whom he had seen in New York, ‘* Hello, Boss !” he eried. “Gosh,” grinned the boy. “ All New York com- ing ober ter Brooklyn dis evening.” } “How?” he demanded. : “I saw Joe Rudolph follerin’ yer frien’ Budd Ketchum dis afternoon?” said Boss-eye. ‘Joe was On the blink or on der rever, for he wouldn’t answer my whistle!” ; “ Wot could he be artér?” said Extree, burning to learn more, but not daring to betray his anx- iety. “Well,” grinned the other, “ Budd was wid a gal, an’ my opinion is was goin’ to rob her, an’ Joe was @ piping at his game.” “Does Budd do dem things?” inquired Nick. J tort he was on der square !” ; “ Square!” sneered the boy; ‘‘ he’s a dead beat: he makes up ter a gal, den get’s her out ter some den an’ robs her! He’s a regular fraud.” “Dern him!” muttered Extree. “‘ Where d’ye think they’ve gone?” “Out by der Shemetry,” answered Boss-Eye. “And goes ter a house kept by his mother.” Then giving Nick a deséription. of the shanty, added, “ Mind yer eye, dey’ve got a big dorg!” Our hero started off at a brisk pace, as the night was closing in, and after walking for half an hour, began to mount a hill upon which were built a number of shanties, As he neared the designated spot, he heard a moun coming from the yicinity of a big bowlder to the left, so being a tender-hearted lad, he turn- ed in the direction of the sound. By that time it was quite dusk. The stone was large, and crouched upon the top was a savage dog, which growled as Extree Spproupiied whereupon the boy picked up a bit of rock, and taking good aim, struck the animal a fearful crack on the The temple, knocking it off into a deep hole behind, at the same time say- ing:> . j : an "Dore, Yer kin jes’ seratch yer ear an’ trot,” ra ee EE SORTER TTT when a boy rose from the ground, then tottering towards him, fell into hisarms and fainted, It was, Joe. CHAPTER XXIIt.. GETTING ONE ON THE NOB, As the dog was growling and’ endeavoring te seramble out of the hole. Extree concluded ta git, so, placing Joe over his shoulder, he retraced his steps. } Having only six cents in his pocket he dared: not take a car, therefore was compelled to walk every step of the way to the ferry, where he rest- ed for awhile in the waiting-room and examined Joe’s injuries. Poor little chap! He hada cut on the mouth and a terrible bruise upon his head: ~~ “T’ll give Mr, Derned Budd rubarb when we meets,” muttered Extree. “Ts that boy drunk?” inquired one of the ferry officials. “Drunk! no,” indignantly replied our hero. “Not half so drunk as yer, or yer’d see he’d bin almost murdered !’”’ : : : Just then the boat arrived from New York. ‘*Get out of this waiting-room!” snarled the man. * = i “Oh! seratch yer ear an’ trot!” cried the boy. “Dis yer roomis fur passengers. Yer kean’t fook “Nick!” i The man, hearing Some of the crowd in waitin laugh, laid hold of the unconscious Joe, where- upon Extree grabbed the fellow by the collar and hoisted him out of the place, saying: — “Yer drop it, unless yer wants a extree head put on yer!” Upon which the man called to a policeman, saying: ; “Take that young rowdy in charge; he’s as- saulted me!” a ; “Here, what's the ih av ?” demanded the id? cop. : Extree showed him Joe’s wounds and explained the matter to the officer’s satisfaction ; then, amid! the cheers of the passengers, went on board the. ferryboat, while the man, who had charged him. with assault, shouted: — ; “Til fix yer ifever I catch yer again!” But Nick did not deign to reply. It was past eight o’clock ere he arrived at Mrs. Ree he haying had to carry Joe from tho. te. ¥ 4 South ey Mrs. Rudolph was wild with terror, and for some time imagined that her boy was dead, while Extree rushed off for a doctor. ; About ten that night, the sufferer recovered his senses, and, upon seeing Extree, said: “T__T’ve hed a derned lick on der nut, Nick.” “Bet yer hev,” answered his partner. ‘ Wot did yer go over ter Brooklyn fur, hey ?” ' “T’m blamed if 1 kin remember!” murmured ae She “My nut is all shook up—so—! Lemme nk ?” “Extree,” said Mrs. Rudolph, “if you like te lodge here I haye’a room I can let you—dollar a week. I wouldn’t charge you, but ’m not rich.* “Not another word, ma’m,” he replied, “Ik get my traps an’ yer kin say der trick’s done!” *‘Your trunk is here,” answered his new land- lady, ‘‘ I’ve paid your rent and took it from your — old place.” 7 Mrs. Rudolph insisted upon his going right off to bed, as he was footsore and tired, so after nod- ered 3 Josie and taking another look at Joe, he retired. The next morning the little hoy was delirous, and, in his ravings, continually cried : “DPve got yer—Budd! help! Oh, der dorg—der dorg !” aha True to his word, Extree rose at flye o’clock and by six proceeded up-town with his papers, selling a stack on the way,then returned and took down the shutters for Josie, who in her neat muslin dress looked as pretty as-a picture. “ How’s Joo?” he said, as he ate the breakfast she had brought him, “Won’t you come inside the stand and sit down?” inquired the girl. “‘ Not till I fixes Budd an’? dem detectives,” he replied. ‘Much as I should like ter sit wid yer, Josie, I couldn’t go back on my word.” All that day he was around, fetching her sup- plies or selling papers, and many were the in< quiries with regard to Joe, who was very popu- lar with the newsboys. : When Mr. Tom heard of the lad’s state, he called to see him, and told Mrs. Rudolph that he would pay his doctor’s bill. ae For three days it appeared doubtful whether little Joe would jet through, but on the fourth, - Saturday, he rallied. , ; Extree and Josie had every now and then, slipped aun in order to help nurse their friend, and, when the doctor said that he would “not die this time,” their joy knew no bounds.
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It was about three o’clock on Saturday after- noon, and Broadway was thronged with vehicles, when a light buggy, driven by the boss news- stand owner, went past the gas company’s office. Beside the driver sat a young man with his coat-collar turned up and his hat pulled down, in order to hide his features, It was Budd Ketchum. Extree, who had just come from Joe, knew him in an instant, and pointing him out to Josie, cried: “ Dere’s der jockey!” then dashed in pursuit, ducking and dodging among the horses, and nar- rowly escaping being run over. The driver of the buggy saw him, and lashing up his horse, worked in and out between the ve- hicles, then quickly turning to the left, down Canal street, eased a little in order to see if Nick was following. As he glanced round, Extree sprang on to the back part of the buggy, and was about to drag Budd overboard, when the latter leaped out, while the driver, grasping Nick by the collar be- an to punch his head in a most vicious manner; etwoon the blows guiding his horse and erying: «You young thief, ’ve got you, hey?” when a red-bearded, good-looking gentleman, who had seen the whole circus, came out of a wholesale store, and, grasping the horse’s head, said, in a quiet, yet commanding, tone: “Say, my friend, you stop punching that boy.” “How?” snarled the fellow. ‘“ Who are you, anyhow?” **My name is Righter,” oelaely replied Nick’s champion. -‘‘ You’ye no right to hit that boy; and if you had, youought not to do it; hear?” 0 “ By —— began the brute, who held Extree so | that if the boy seduce he would fall backwards and split his skull; but the word had searcely assed his lips ere the gentleman quitted the oreae head, and, sprifig¢ipg up into the vehicle grasped the driver by th»!throat, released Extree, and helped him down,.then followed himself, leaving the boss news-stand man gurgling like a half-choked cat. Before the rufflan could recover himself, the horse started at a rapid pace, and in two minutes the vehicle was out of sight. “Say, sonny,” laughingly inquired his new friend, who had not turned a hair over the serim- mage, “ what was that fellow licking you for?” Extree told him, adding: * Pm real obliged ter yer, boss ; yer bounced him splendid!” then drawing a copy of Tau» Boys’ WEEKLY from his pocket, said: “ Boss, if yer've got a boy, take dis; dere’s bully stories in it, an’ nothin’ ter do him harm,” “Thank you,” said the gentleman, slipping a aban into his hand. ‘‘ What’s your namo, son- ay?” ; “My name?” he cried. “I’m Extree Nick, dor mewsboy, de chap der dertectives tried: ter give away! Dat jockey dat punched me was one ob der crowd! Iseeitall! Good aft’noon, boss.” When he reached the stand, Josie anxiously in- quired : Did you fix him, Extree?” whereupon he smilingly replied : “No, der cuss fixed me agin dis time; but I'll uick him, yet,” ; OHAPTER XIY, THE LOVE-SICK MARBLE-CLIPPER. Tux following day being Sunday, Extree, after serving bis morning papers, turned his steps to- wards the cemetery. : Being strong and desirous of saving his money, he walked to the ferry, and from thence to his destination on the other side of the river, and as it was yot early, arrived riear the gates before any of the funeral processions. Pausing at the office of a man who announced himself as “an Italian Sculptor,” but who in real- ity was an ordinary marble-clipper, Nick said to. the old boy: “Fine mornin’ !” The artist in stone knocked the ashes out of his pipe, then said: ** Begorra, but she’s a foine slip ay a gurl!” “Who?” asked Extree. “The colleen who has jist gone into the ceme- tery,” answered the fellow, winking and blinking lixe an ancient owl. i “Mashed?” grinned our hero. ‘In loye?” “Dead!” returned the other. “Ive put her tombstone aff fur three weeks jist to hey her come - out here Sundays; but last week she ses to me, ' gesshe: ‘Mr, ‘im Chipper,’ she ses—she always calls me dat—‘if ye don’t put them stones up be- fore the next time I come, I shall countermine the order,’ she ses.” 5 ‘How could one order her own grayestones?”” demanded the astonished boy. EXTREE NICK. “Shure, an’I tould her,” he continued, ‘that me name was Mulligan, an’ dat if she would go up to section K she'd see me last wife’s monuyment; cost me a t’ousand dollars, be jabers! but she only sassed me, sayin’, ‘Oh, scratch yer ear an’ trot!’ Be me soul, but she’s as purty as she’s merry !” “Josie!” muttered Extree, nodding to the love- sick marble-masher and walking forward. He soon arrived at the well-known spot, where he found the girl removing the winter coverings from the rose bushes, The grave was neatly sodded, while on the head- stone he read the names of his parents. * Ah, Extree,” she Ea, exclaimed, as she glanced upat him. ‘ Iwasin hopes that I should have got away before you arrived.” «Dis yer work, Josie?” he asked. “Partly,” she said; ‘Mr. Tom paid for the stone and cutting, and 1 turfed the mound.” “Yer a bully gal!” he said. He felt so proud of his friends, so grateful for their goodness, that, for some time he could not reply; seeing which Josie walked slowly toward the lower entryuce to the grounds. “1t’s just splendid,” he at leng th murmured. “Mr, Tom, however kin I thank yer,” After spending some tims near the spot, he re- joined the girl, saying: “ Let’s go out through the upper gate, Josie, It’s nearer home,” ¢ ‘* JT,” she began., ‘I’d rather not!” Whe sun was gaining power every instant, and nesher of them had breakfasted, added to which shé blushed so that Nick felt uncomfortable. Presently he asked : “Why not?” « Well, you see,” she began, half crying and half laughing, as a woman does when she has in- nocent reasons for keeping a secret. ‘‘ ’d rather not say, 1xtree!” “Derned funny!” he thought; then glancing toward the upper gate beheld the old party squinting obliquely at them. “Rayther not say?” murmured Nick. ‘‘ Sure- ly, yer dun’t want to keep anything from me, hey?” “Don’t usk me any more about il,” she pleaded. Extree bit his lips, Could it be possible that the hoary headed old scamp had referred to his sweetheart? “Say,” he whispered, “has any one been makin’ up ter yer, Josie?” “Mr. Tom,” she began, meaning that Mr. Me- Nally had siven her the funds for the grave- stones, and that she had ordered them, when Extree flared up with: “Mr. Tom, hey? Itort he axed arter yer rather peculiar |” : “ Hush—hush !” shoe eried, pausing, and plac- ing her little hand upon his mouth. ‘‘ Dont’ say anything you'll be sorry for by and by. Mr. Tom is your best friend !” “Not if he’s mashed on yer, Josie!” he quickly answered, when the marble-cutter once more poked his head round the gate and winked loy- ingly at the girl. Nick did not see this, but she did, so she turned about, saying: : You know the marble works near the gate?” * Yoa!” he nodded. “ Kept by the old man?” she continued, blush- ing and smiling by turns. “Yea!” he said, the truth beginning to dawn upon him. “Well, Extree,” she murmured, “ youll pro- mise me not to git mad and hurt him?” “ Hurt who?” laughed Nick. “Well, you see,” she nervously replied, ‘‘ he’s an old man, and I’ve been out here bothering and hegging him to cut the stone before you came to visit the place, but he didn’t understand me, and actually wanted to marry me!” : “He'd better cut’ a gravestone for himself,” grinned Nick. ‘‘Come, Josie, let’s go by him, an’ show him yer’ve got a young man.” “Oh, no,” she whispered, ‘‘let’s go by the lower gate.” But Extree was firm, so they turned and faced the music. f : * Ah!” exclaimed the old rooster, thrusting his pipe into his coat-pocket. ‘“‘Ah, me darlint, there ye are!” ae ome,” blushed the girl, “let’s hurry by im.” 7 “Not much, Josie,” Nick said. “Der old masher has got ter apologize ter yer,” with which he marched up to the marble-clipper, saying: “Yer a nice, hoary-headed old scamp, ain’t yer? I’ve a good mind ter report yer ter der authorities.” “What are ye talkin’ about?” said the cunning old rat. “Sure, an’ is it dhrunk yez are, ye monkey?” - : i ‘ “Oh, yer kean’t fool Nick!” retorted the boy. » “if dere’s any monkey in der matter, it’s yer- reer Pa a ‘he late Mrs. Mulligan; it’s her friends oS self. Yer a nice old feller, ain’t yer, ter want ter marry my young woman.” : The old sinner’s eyes twinkled, and he beck~ oned Nick aside, saying: “‘ Aisy—aisy! Js she your gal!” “Yea,” nodded the newsboy. i “Sell her to me?” nervously observed the other. “How!” eried Extree; “yer awful old rascal! Yer ought ter be pole-axed |” “ Aisy—aisy!” murmured the aged! scamp. keeping his greedy eyes upon Josie, who was, sauntering down the road. ‘‘I mane biz. There’s lots ay gals in the world’ for yez, but I only love yonder colleen! Ill inake it worth , yez while to give her up!” : “Extree grew scarlet and white with angex then said: i “Yer dried up, skrunky, pin-headed, bent up, wilted old skunk, d’yer know what yer kin do?” “‘N-o-0!” tremblingly answered the marble- smasher, fearing that Wick was about to strike him, ‘“ Kape yez hands off me, yez murderin’ young blayguard. “Oh, yer needn’t be afraid, yer withered old peanut!” he sneered. “I wouldn’t touch you wid a forty-fut fishin pole!’ Then, calling to his companion, said : “Come here, Josie !” The girl slowly returned, when Extree address- ed the man, saying: “Now, old spooney, if yer don’t ’pologize ter dis young lady, I'll see der cemetery authorites, who’d soon stop yer annoyin’ respectable folks, an’ insultin’ dem wed yer love!” The old sinner went down upon his knees among the marble dust, and swore that he was only joking; begging Josie’s pardon in a most abject and pitiful manner, while Extree guyed him most unmercifully, concluding with: “ D’yer know what yer kin do now?” “N-o-o!” tremblingly replied the old man, rie- ing, and preparing to retreat, i xtree gave a chuckle, then, taking Josie’s® hand, said'to her would-be purchaser: “Yer can soratch yer ear an’ trot !’” CHAPTER XY. EXTREE MAKES A DISCOVERY; Uron leaving the marble smasher’s place, Josie and our hero stepped briskly out, yet it was fully eleven o’clock ere they arrived at Mrs. Ru- dolph’s fe Joe, very pale and weak, welcomed them with a smile, and Mrs. Rudolph laughed heartily over their adventure with the marble man. “Ho's a nice old sinner!” she cried, “ I knew who put that monument over her!” “Did she belong to der Mulligan Guards!’ piped Little Joe, from his room. : “You'll dol” grinned Extree, while Josie went in to the sick boy and patted his cheek, say< ing: : 3 3 pant you’re coming on splendidly—you can joke!” They took a bite of something just to stay theix hunger until dinner, after which Nick seated him- self by one side of his partner, and Josie took hor place on the other, “Tm a thorn between two roses,” See ob- served the invalid. ‘So yer wouldn’t sell Josie, hey, Extree?” “Shoo-fly?” grinned Nick. ‘‘ Never mind *bout dat! If Josie is ever sold I hope it will be for q better feller den dat dried-up, old marble man! ayy it, Joe, an’ tell us how yer got dat clip on der nu a9 y = ‘* Well, yer see,” said the boy, “I’d solé all my extrees, when, as I turned inter Broadway, I saw me noble Mr. Budd Ketchum wid a gal, so tinke I, I'll jes’ spot yer.” co “‘ An’ get spotted yerself,” smilingly observed Extree. “Yes, as yer did ciate OF by der boss news stand man,” grinned the invalid. gies ‘‘Had you there,” laughed Josie, winking as Extree, ‘You see Joe’s getting real smart.” **Go on,” said our hero to his pard. “ Well, what did yer do?” f “T follered him,” continued Joe, “ until I saw him enter a shanty an’ heard the gal scream, when I knocks at ter door, shoutin’: ‘Yer jes let| dat galalone.’” : : fexte “Brayo!” eried Josie, kissing him. ‘Good for you, Joe.” gi “Oh, Joe’s small,” said Mrs. Rudolph, peeping proudly in at the door of the apartment. ‘Joe's awiul small, for his age, but he’s real spunky,” “Go on,” said Extree; “yer jos’ gettin’to derin- ferestin’ part.” ; ie festa “Well,” dryly returned the boy, ‘‘it may be the. interestin’ fur yer, but it was aawfulrumunfur Joe. Out comes Budd. ‘Hello,’ he ses, ‘what . =
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10 EXTREE NICK. yer want?’ ‘What yer doin’ with that gal?’ I ses, When he began to lam me over der head an’ ter set adogon me. I was ’fraid ter moye, an’ he gave me some awful licks with a stick. Just asI got der last one, dat I remember, der gal rushed out ob der shanty an’ got off, fur sum men, who wvas goin’ home from deir work, said dey’d kill Budd if he touched her, so he scooted; den a old woman, she came outer der shanty an’ dragged me by der limbs until she reached der stone when she dropped me, an’ told der dog ter watch. J laid dere until I heerd Extree say ter der dog, “Dero, yer kin scratch yer ear an’ trot,’ when I kinder roused an’ got on my feet. Then, paus- ing, he demanded, ‘‘so yer carried me all der way home on yer back, Nick?” Be “*Snose I did,” grinned our hero. “Think I was goin’ ter leave yer ’cos I couldn’t afford ter pay fur a kerridge |” “Yer a good chum,” murmured Joe. ‘‘I’d do anything ter show yer I like yer.” “Youve done enough already, Joe,” said- Ex- tree. ‘‘ Now you leave the detective biz to me.” After dinner Dick and Josie talked over the mat- ter of Budd Ketchum. : ‘* Pxtree,” she said, “ Budd don’t know me by sight. Dll-fix him. Find out his lay and Vil meet him and,” here her eyes flashed, ‘‘let him try to rob or hurt me.” *« Josie,” he replied, ‘I admire yer pluck, but it |. ain’t ter be did. I know a better way. Besides, Tye been thinking if [ fix Budd in jail I shall scare the others.” “ Well,” she cried, ‘out with it; you’ve got to fix him or I shall!” “Temme dress up as a gal,” he said, “ and de- coy him inter’ some quiet spot an’ give him a derned good licking! Yer see, Josie, der perlice won't touch him; he takes care ob dem! Nick’ll do der trick when I goes for himagin. Ill have -him ter rights !” / : The following day, while Extree was folding papers outside the stand, Budd Ketchum swag- gered up, and sneering at him, said: “ Look ahea, d’yer want mo?” at the same time placing his hand behind him as though reaching for his shooting-iron. “Td like ter hev yer where I could whip. yer!” uickly replied the boy. “Yer a thief, an’ tried ter bust me hero, but yer didn’t doit! Go an’ iob some more poor gals! Yer an’ yer mother are a pair!” Just then a policoman passed and Budd, nodding to the officer, said to Nick: ~ Ss saa don’t yer giye me in charge—dere’s a cop?’ “Oh, scratch yer ear an’ trot!” said Extree, who knew that he could not prove anything against the fellow, as unless they found the girl no one’ would believe Joes story. “Yer ain’t worth seer, in charge !” ° Budd was playing a bluff game. He wanted to be able to move about Broadway without molesta- tion from Extree, so he bounced him, or thought that he did, while our hero watched him like a Seer doés a dishonest.conductor, When- ever he had a little leisure he followed up his elew and soon discovered that Budd was connect- ed with a gang of “smashers,” who were passing ‘ The reason why the counterfeiter did not want # woman round during the day was on account o * Budd and his confederates being alone, = = Opposite the Smasher’s house was a florist hom Nick yeaa ta papers, and at whose Pie place worked a lad who had once been a news- boy, and who was a great admirer of Extree, “Yelling his friend that he wanted to wait up town until noon, he obtained permission to help him, and as he had dropped in during a busy part of the day, the proprietor smiled and told him to assist in sorting the flowers. : About twelve o’clock he saw Piper and Snell, the detectives, enter the house on the other side of the street, and presently beheld them emerge, carrying something heavy in their pockets. He was sorting pinks, and the sight of the men made him flush so that his chum inquired: *What’s der matter, Extree?” *T don’t feel very well!” he answered. “‘Dese pinks is overpowerin’!” then, excusing himself, quitted the place, and cautiously followed the de- tectives; pulling his cap-peak oyer his right eye and whistling: 3 “Tommy, make room for your uncle!” CHAPTER XYI. NICK ASSUMES A COMICAL DISGUISE. Piper and Snell walked quickly on, Hxtree sauntering when they were in sight, and running when they turned the corners, following them until he saw them enter a tenement-house on the upper part of Third Avenue. s they ascended the stairs, Nick walked up to the building, and, leaning against the door- port said to a girl who was playing in the lower nel ; sete S/ « Hello, sis!” < “Hello!” she said. ‘Who are yer when yer mouth’s full” «“T’ye come to live near here,” he answered, jingling some pennies in his pocket, ‘* D’yerlike candy, sis?” “My name’s Sadie Piper, an’ my father is a de- tective,” she said, tossing her head. “ He’s jes’ gone up-stairs with Mr, Snell!” “Youre proud,” he laughed, “T’m engaged ter be married ter Billy Hautfs, der German baker,” she snapped. ‘‘I kin git all the candy I want without yer help, See, I’ve gotten new five-cent nickles,” exhibiting a hand- ful of new coins. ‘Give us change fura twenty-five cent stamp?” said Extree. “TI like new nickles.” “Ts it bogus?” she eagerly demanded. “No,” he answered; handing her a well-worn stamp. “It’s good ’nuf.” The girl, though young in years, was old in erime, and, like many of her sex, was unable to keep her own counsel; so, when she gave Nick the change, she said: “T borred them from a bag out of father’s bureau.” “Yer’d best put ’em back, sis,” he observed. “JT wouldn't rob my father if he was der biggest thief in creation” ‘ “Perhaps yer old man don’t lick yer as mine does,” quickly replied the girl. “T wish he had der chance ter,” sighed the boy. “You're a fool to wish such a thing,” she said. ** My father leathers us like a lot of dogs.” “ Mine’s dead,” said Nick. “Wish mine was,” flashed the girl. ‘‘ When he was in der old biz he never hit us; now hoe gets drunk, an’ treats us shameful.” ¢ “What biz was he in?” quietly asked Extreo, “Makin? money,” she answered. ‘He an’ Uncle Jonas, who owns a lot of news stands on Broadway. Say, did yer ever shove der queer?” “What's dat?” he demanded, turning to de- part. “Pass counterfeit money!” she said. “Oh, I see yer a green foo]. Want any more nickels?” “No, thank yer,” he grinned. “Dey might be queer,” then, nodding carelessly, quitted her and proceeded down town. 4 * Josie!’ he cried, “ I’ve got on der track.” “Come in and tell me,” she eagerly returned, opening the door of the news-stand, but he drew back, just as he was about to cross the threshold, muttering: ““No—yer—don’t, Josie! Not for Nick.” _ “T forgot, Extree,” she blushed ; whereupon he whispered to her: i “So long as yer don’t forget me, I don’t care ;” then rapidly sketched his morning’s adventures, at the same time showing her the nickels, which he marked ‘‘ No. 1.” *« All right,” she exclaimed. “I'll go to-night and you can watch outside. Those nickels look all right.” “Not much, yer don’t go,” he answered, “What, Josie, d’yer think I’d trust yer in dat den of thieves? Yer a brave gal, but yer don’t know Nick. Lend mea suit of yer old clothes an’ some false hair an’ I'll do der work, I know dis money looks O K; but it’s bad as old eggs |” bs a" That evening Mrs. Rudolph and Josie fixed his hair, and dressed him as a ‘poor, but honest female chore-doer,” after which he started up nickel J. P., “will you take my adyice?? town, taking the Seventh Avenue car at the door of his lodging and modestly shrinking into a cor- ner, where he looked like a rather badly-fixed servant-girl. Upon arriying up town, he, in a feigned wo- man’s yoice, begged the conductor to stop the ear, then alighting, moved rapidly to his destina- tion, and timidly rang the basement bell, which ~ was immediately answered by the man he had seen that morning. “Oh, you’re the gal who will do the chores, are you?” said the coiner. ‘Well, you’re something like your brother! Come-along;” and leading the way up-stairs, showed: him several rooms which required fixing, saying: ‘*Now here’s a key to the basement door; do your chores and let yourself out, and come here every evening about this time; Sunday I'll pay you,” after which the man walked down-stairs and quitted the house. As the sound of his footsteps died away, Nick did a very unladylike trick. s Throwing himself on his hands he turned 2 eart-wheel, then shouted : “Got ’em! Fixed’em! Dey’ll be busted by Nick !” when the front door bell rang and brought him to his senses. ‘Taint my biz ter answer der door!” he mur- mured, as he rapidly cleared up the room and entered another, ‘Let Cer rooster ring!” “Ding-dingle-ding !” went the bell, but Extree worked on, pausing now and then to dance a few steps ofa jig It was such a lark to be on the track of his enemies, and aboye all to be masquer- - ading in girl’s clothes. Haying fixed the bedrooms, he,explored the first floor, which was evidently used as a billiard and reception-room; then’ peeping beneath the sun-shades beheld Budd Ketchum, who was on the top of the stoop dancing and swearing like a lunatic. Presently he seized the bell-handle and gaye it another vicious drag, causing Extree to laugh in his sleeve. f “Tl let him in,” he thought, ‘It’s getting dark, an’ he won’t know me.” So, proceeding to the door, he opened it an inch, saying, in an assumed voice: a * Who’s there?” , “Captain Sniffin,” answered Budd. ‘Are you the gal who does the chores? Ifso, Bill says yer ter let me in.” Nick permitted him to enter, whereupon the fek low marched past him as though he were dirt. *“Oome,” he said, ‘* where’s der matches?” “How do I know,” snapped Extree, imitating a girl’s voice. “Hind out, mister!” Budd rummaged about the room ‘for awhile, then once more demanded : ““Where’s der matches? I’m in a hurry!” Nick felt half inclined to tell him to seratch his ear and trot, but knew if he did that it would spoil his game, so remained silent. : At length Budd obtained a light, and, opening a cupboard in the back parlor, proceeded to pull some heavy packages from the tail of his coat; as he did so one of them burst, scattering its con- tents, which he carefully searched for and we- covered. s As he was groping on the floor, Extree entered the room, saying: 4 : “Can I help you, mister?” when, noticing that he had a nice, smooth face, Budd pitched the broken package into the cupboard and said: “Haven’t I seen yer somewhere else?” “Ain’t you Mr. Budd Ketchum, the masher?’’ simpered Nick, putting his forefinger into his _ mouth; at the same time stooping and slyly secur- ing a bright nickle that lay on the floor, : “Hush!” whispered the fellow. “Yea, my name is Budd. Would yer like to go ter the theater some night, honey?” “Yes,” simpored Hxtree, “if ma’ll let me.” “Took here,” winked the thief. ‘ Has yer mar got a watch an’ any jewelry?” i i Nick nodded, whereupon the cur turned to de- part, saying: “Borrey’6m, den, say dis day week; dress yer- self in yer best duds, and I’ll take yer to der the- ater, We'll have a good time.” “Yea!” chuckled Nick, as the coward thief quitted the house ‘‘ Yer bet we'll haye a good time, Mister Noble Budd!” ‘ OHAPTER- XVII. OUR HERO RECEIVES HIS INSTRUCTIONS. “Wuen Budd was well out of the way, Extras left the house, and returned to Mrs, Rudolph’s, phere he found Josie very anxious about his safety. % : ees - “Don’t you worry,” hesaid. ‘‘ They don’t know me from.Adam, and even if they did, I should bounce ’em.” ; ; : 4 Tixtree,” said the girl, as she marked the Pe Pp pS
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EXTREE NICK. 1% a a ee *?Oourse I will, Josie,” he replied. “Will you tell Mr. McNally about this, and hear what he says; he’s got a clear head, and will give you good, sound counsel. Now, just tell him all to-morrow?” “Right you are, Josie,” he said, I will,” laughingly adding, “Yer sure Mr. Tom ain’t mashed ober yer?” i “Fxtree,” she smilingly replied, “if you say anything more about that, I'll marry the marble inusher. Poor old chap! You should have seen him open his eyes when I told him to seratch his ear an’ trot!” * Josie,” he said, “I wasn’t surprised dat yer dazzled der old man, | Yer awful nice,” “Oh, you get out, Miss Meriar,” she retorted. “Tm not half so pretty as you are in those clothes,” alluding to his feminine garments. ‘If the old man saw you now, what would he do?” Nick retired to the door of his own room; then turning, said: ‘“ What ’ud he do, Josie? Why, he’d jes seratch his ear an’ trot!” then vanished to change his costume. The next day, after serving his paper route, he called upon Mr. Tom, ~ “Well?” said that gentleman, glancing up from his writing. ; “Fust of all began Nick, ‘I’ve got tag thank yer for——” when his friend interrupted him with: “I understand; go and tell me about the coin- ers.’ Verve bin real good,” continued Extree, de- termined to somehow say what was uppermostin his mind; but Mr. Tom would not listen, so he changed the subject, whereupon the gentleman paid him every attention, and when he had con- cluded, laughingly observed : ** You're a bold boy, Extree.” Dey kean’t fool Niek,” was his ready reply. “T tell you, boss, I’m goin’ ter pin dem dertec- tives jes’ like dem bugs yer’ve got dere,” pointing to a glass-case containing preserved butterflies. “Yer awful kind ter Day fur dat stone fur my father an’ mother’s grave.” Pretending not to heed this, and after thinking awhile, his friend said: “ Jome down town with me;” then away they started, presently arriving at the Treasury Build- ing, when Mr.'Tom paused, sayin “Stay outside here; Iwill send Don’t quit this spot.” “Yer bet I won’t!” he said. Just then Joe, who frequented Wallstreet, hur- rledly passed him, upon which he said: “Where yer goin’ pard?” «ixtree jes’ out!” answered the boy, a steamship.” “ Bring a lot here for me!” he shouted. In a short time back came Joe with a heayy _ load, and, pitching him half, continued his course, erying: ‘“Var—here yar extree! Fulle ’count ob de loss ob de steamship !” whereupon our hero laid his pile on the steps of the Treasury Building, and folding the papers, joined in the shout. “Yar—here yar extree.” *‘ What ship is lost?” demanded a well-known millionaire, who was too mean to pay for the in- formation. “Buy a paper an’ find out, boss,” laughingly answered the merry newsboy; hearing which the wealthy money-grubber seowled, and said: “You're a saucy whelp.” “Oh, scratch yer ear an’ trot,” grinned Nick. “Yer want a extree, don’t yer? Maybe yer uncle has bin lost an’ left yer all his stamps; yer look as if yer want a new outfit.” for you shortly. The millionaire waited until a lot of the papers’ were sold, then borrowed one from a boy. That man still lives, he being too mean to die. “Yar!” eried Nick, holding the last extree be- - tween his finger and thumb. “Give it to me,” said Mr. Tom, descending the stops. ““Eixtree, you are required in here.” The boy handed his friend the paper and fol- lowed him to an inner apartment, where a gentle- man was seated at a cabinet desk. ‘ “This is Extree Nick,” said Mr. Tom. ‘I will retire.’ an lieu of putting on frills the official kindly said: Ls ‘So you are the newsboy who was falsely im- prisoned? Mr. MeNally tells me that you are a regulax little detective.’ : * “Yer bet I kin see furder den some ob dem perfeshnuls,” said Nick. “Now, tell me your story,” said the other, ‘All of it, including the robbery?” : Extree began at his taking the news-stand, and related all his experiences, adding nothing, con- cealing nothing, ar telling the plain, unvarnished truth. : : ~ Sometimes the official smiled, and at others averted his face as though deeply moved. Pat “Loss of | 37 When Nick concluded, he inquired: “Well, what is your theory?” Extree glanced merrily at him,-saying: “ “‘Scuse me, boss; yer’ve got me, dead.” “ How?” inquired the gentleman, “Yer sed sunthin’ *bont a fear-eye ! news biz.” “Oh, I see,” answered the official. your idea with regard to these men?” “Yer mean what's dey’re little game, boss?” he grinned. . ; The other nodded. : “Are them nickels good?” demanded Extree, pointing to the change he had received from the girl and the change he had picked up in the par- lor of the Smasher’s house. “Counterfeit !” answered the gentleman; “they are very excellent imitations, and none but an ex- pert could tell them from the genuine. I see that you haye marked them,” “Den I'll tell yer,” said Nick. ‘When Mr. Mc- Nally gaye me leave to open a news-stand, Uncle Jonas, as der gal called him——” “His name is Jonas Tover,” observed the offi- eial. ‘We have long wanted to conyict him,” “Mover,” murmured Nick, “Tl remember dat. Well, boss, when Uncle Dover Tover found I was hurtin’ his biz—for I was more civil dan his folks —he set Budd Ketchum on ter me, an’ got his pals, der dertectives, ter shadder me. Den dey put up some one ter burgle der safe, an’ der cracks got surprised ober der job an’ stowed der swag in my stand, TVindin’ dis, dey pounced on ter me, an’ swore black was white; but Mr. Tom stuck ter me, an’ Josie an’ Joe worried out der evidence about Budd, an’ I was let off.” “Why don’t you secure this Budd?” inquired the gentleman. : “Der perlice won't touch him,” said the boy. “Sides,” with a grin, “he’s goin’ ter take me to the theater next week. I’ve chatted it over with Josie an’ Joe, an’ we ain’t goin’ ter touch Budd until we scoop in der others.” “You were born to be a detective,” said the Official. “No,” he smilingly answered, ‘I was born to be a newsboy, boss.” _ The gentleman thought for a few moments, then said: “There is areward of athousand dollars offered for the capture and conviction of this gang. Do you know where this money is coined?” “Warn’t made in der house,” returned Extree. « Budd brought dis from de country.” “How do you know?” demanded the other, “Because he had der New Jersey clay on his Duee quickly replied the boy. ‘ Yer kean’t fool ick |” I’m in der © What is **My lad,” said the official, “ keep on as you are doing, and report daily to Mr. McNally, who will communicate with me. I want the man who coined this money. Don’t move further until you can find him out. Now go ahead; Vl protect you.” ‘** Boss,” he grinned, ‘ Nick’ll do der trick!” CHAPTER XYIII. SA-RAH AND ME-RI-AR, Ati that day Extree stuck to the news busi- ness like a Jeech does to.a full-blooded man, and at dusk, assuming his disguise, proceeded up- town. The house was deserted, and he made a tour through the rooms. Tt was quite evident to him that the gang was e most powerful one, and that they all slept there, This accounted for the Jarge number of news- papers he delivered to them every day. none room was a big, wide, opén fire-place, over which a ventilator was placed, so as to free the top of the apartment from heated air. . 1 Nick iooked up the chimney and saw that just below the ventilator were two iron bars, built into the masonry, in order to prevent robbers from descending that way. “ Ah—ah!” he cried, ‘‘ Vl fix yer, me bullies !” with which he ascended to the attic and through the scuttle to the roof. To his surprise and annoyance he discovered that the chimney ran up through the ridge: pole, rendering it impossible for him to descend from the $n however, as he returned through the attic, the idea struck him that he might reach the flue at that point, which would be better than walking on the roof. ‘ “T kean’t do it ter-day, anyhow,” he said. ‘Dem coons never comes up here, an’ I kin take me time,” oe . ; Returning to the lower floors, he completed his chamber work, and quitted the house. pen he told Josie and Joe his secret, she said: “Extree, you must haye some one with you.” “Take me!” said Joe. : ik as get yer mashed like a skeeter,” laughed ck, “Don’t yer fret,” smilingly answered his pard ; “T kin make up a Jew gal; my hairis long and black ; an’ mother kin curl it on a *bakker-pipe.” — “Who's ter serve the evening papers?” said his mother. “T can,” observed Josie. “‘I will go up-town with them, leaving Joe and Extree at the stand. We're bound to carry this thing through, and fix those wretches. Fancy how many poor folks those counterfeiters get into trouble! Just think ofa widow woman with only a few nickels left on Saturday, goes to the store to buy bread for the next day, storekeeper discovers her five-cent pieces are counterfeits; hands her over to the police, and leaves her little ones tostarve. That’s what forgers and smashers do.””* ; “Mhey’re worse than highway robbers !” said Mrs. Rudotph. “TI think that Extree will do poor folks a service if he-roots the gang out.” That evening Joe was dressed in a suit of girl’s clothes, borrowed from a neighbor, and at dark followed Extree out of the house. As they sat side by side in the street cars, they looked like an Irish and a Jewish help, Joe’s tiny black ringlets shinging like little Japanned-steel springs, ‘ Upon arriving at the house they found Bill, the man who had engaged Extree, or rather the boy’s imaginary sister, sick in bed. “ve brought my little sister,” simpered Nick, in a woman’s voice. ‘I’m afraid to go about the house alone.” ; ‘All sight,’ moanéd the sick man. “ Fix my room—{ can’t get up. Turn down the gas; it hurts my eyes.” Joe noticed that the fellow was wounded in the head, and that one of his hands was bandaged. “May I fan you?” he timidly asked, endeayor- ing to imitate Extree’s feminine voice, while Nick lowered the gas. “Thank yer, sis,” he said. During the time that Nick was cleaning up the apartments, Joe fanned the sufferer, saying: «Getting warm, isn’t it?” ; “Yea,” said the man. ‘Hark! there’s a ring at the door. Go and see who it is, my dear. There’s a light in the hall.” When the boy was gone, Bill laughed to him- self, saying: ; “What a funny little girl—her voice is like her - sister's! Derned if I didn’t almost Jaugh in her face! Curse that watchman! he’sspoilt my right hand—taken off the tips of three of my fingers.” Presently Joe came back, saying: “Tts Mr. Black.” “Tell him to come right up,” answered Bill, “Here I am,” said a voice outside the door, and in came Detective Green, disguised and wearing a false beard, one of the men who had given Extree away on his first trial. Joe knew him in an instant, while the man was utterly un- conscious that the little fellow was a boy. “Go on fanning me, sis,” said the wounded man, adding to the detective, ‘* You needn’t mind this kid—she’s green, _ You both are,” thought Joe, fanning away as innocently as a little girl would have done. Spite of the man’s disguise, Joe knew the visitor. “You're in a bad fix,” began the detective. “The man is dying.” od “Sorry for him!” Jaughed Bill. “Sorry for you!” said Green, or Black, as he now called himself. ‘There’s a reward out!” “How much?” inquired the wounded man, “Five hundred !” said the other. : “Why?” growled the patient. “It was a fair fight! He attacked me! Guess I'll have to go to ermann’s. I shall be safe there—but I can’t move just yet!” 5 de detective laughed significantly, then whis- pered: : s “You got a pile of swag—I’m notalone! What will you give? Piper and Snell must be fixed,” “ A thou!” answered the man. “Not a derned cent more, and not that until this has blown over! Dern the gas, it’s gone out. Never mind, the gal will soon return.” . ; Joe was gradually fanning less briskly, as though going to sleep, and presently gave a little snore, while inwardly he felt ready to burst with laughter, _ ¢ _ We'll take five hundred down and the balance when you feel all O K,” said Green, after a long wuuse. ‘* We're holding a tramp in custody, and if you agree to our terms, we'll fix him—if not!” here he Jaughed. “All” right!’ growled the wounded man. “Come to-morrow.” at Tt was pitch dark in the room} and snoring Joe was grinning like a clown in a circus. : “Sa-rah!’ said Nick, entering with a lighted candle, ‘I’m ready to go home.” But Joe was Ws 4 uv
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been at his mercy _ @stove-pipe!” EXTREE NICK. DN ERIS PELTED, SEED SPEEA 12 n fly and still pretended to be asleep, so Extree, who| An old mattress lying in one corner of the : l recognized his enemy the detective, softly whis- | attic, was dragged forward, and the bricksthrown | ‘‘T’ll do it,” offered Snell, ered in his sister’s ear: ‘‘Sa-rah, wake up! a will wonder where we've got to!” Joe pretended to arouse with a start and to re- commence fanning Bill, but the man laughingly observed : «That will do for to-night, sis. There is ten sents for you to buy candy,” handing him two counterfeit nickels, “‘You can leave the candle here. What’s your name?” to Nick. “ Mo-ri-ar,” demurely answered Extree, turn- ing and taking a sly squint atthe detective’s hand, at the same time murmuring: ‘Oh, I’m so frightened !” * At me?” said the detective. «Ve-th |” murmured the scamp, in his mincing, syoman’s voice. “I thought you was Mister Ket- ¢ehum.,” Fe ‘“You must be green,” snarled the officer. “My name is Black.” ne * Peugh!? sniffed Extree, like an angry girl. “JT ain’t so green as you are, neither. Come along, Sa-rah!” and seizing Joe by the arm, towed him down-stairs. When they arrived in the basement they gave vent to their pent-up mirth; taking care, how- ever, not to laugh too loud. “ Onristopher!” ejaculated Nick. “I knowed it was Green by der scar on his hand.” “Oh, my thunder,” gasped Joe. ‘‘Comealong, Me-ri-ar. IfI don’t get out of this I shall bust with laffin’.” , : Josie examined the nickels brought by Joe, and handed them to Nick; who gave her a de- Scription of their adventures, then said: * Bill is the man who committed that safe-rob- ery last night.” «Yos,” she nodded. “I read it in the papers. He nearly killed the watchman.” “Til report to Mr. Tom to-morrow,” said Nick, marking the two coins ‘ Joe,” and pre- * paring to retire. “Good-night, Josie; good-night, sister Sa- rah?” “Good-night, Me-ri-ar,” grinned little Joe. <‘We’ve got the noble Green.’ CHAPTER XIX, CATOHING IT HOT, THE next morning the papers were full of the death of the bank watchman, and when Extree ue Joe told their story to Mr. Tom, the latter waid ; «We've aimed at the dog and shot the cat! Good for you, Joe!” “‘Sa-rah is small,” observed Nick, admiringly, ““but she’s mighty smart !” “‘T must see the treasury official first,” mused their friend. “Murder is a serious crime! Stay here until I come back !” * Oan’t we go on sellin’ until ten?” urged Nick, who had an eye to business. * Yes,” answered the gentleman. In a short time they were crying ‘ Mornin’ pa- pers |” rane like any ordinary newsboys. Mr. Tom did not return until noon, when he called the lads in, saying: “You must find where Hermann’s is!” “We'll try!” said’ Nick. “T guess it’s some ey in New Jersey; I'll watch der house to- ay? * No—you needn’t do that,” said Mr. Tom; ‘if you can get into the chimney, and stay there all day to-morrow, you may learn something. Take some food and a bottle of water and try it. The man Bill cannot move, and you can work as you like. Go earlier; your disguises are good, and if ‘you have your wits about you, you will learn all that is required.” «Tf I kin make a hole inter der chimbley,” said Extree, “Vil chance der rest—dere’s bricks left in it—ter go up an’ down upon, an’ J kin climb like a cat!” “ Won’t dey hear yer?” demanded Joe, Bless yer, no,” he answered. “It’s one ob dem old houses, not one built yesterday; der walls are as thick as a church, an’ der chimbley is like a well.” Provid&ag themselves with food and water—for Joe insisted upon accompanying Nick—they start- ed for up-town, arriving about half after seven P. M., and finding the burglar very sick. He dared not call in a surgeon, and his wounds _ ‘were troubling him. Green was with «ne man, and evidently had Hurriediy fixing the rooms, they crept up-stairs and began to examine their tise peace “Tfwe kin get one brick out,” said Bxtree, “« der job is did!” ‘ : Then gently tapping the paper covering the ehimney: ““Say—here’s a hole been knocked for | i upon it, the boys working like niggers. Lighting a piece of wax-candle, brought from below, Extree peeped into the hole. Every foot or two were projecting bricks, left to facilitate sweeping, or for some purpose in the construction of the fabric. They enlarged the opening until it was level with the floor, after which Nick cautiously di- vested himself of his outer dress, leaving on his feminine undergarments, then began to descend. In ten minutes he reappeared, saying; «Go down to der next floor. I'll shout, kick and holler. If yer kean’t hear, we're all safe.” Joe did as he was told; but, though he listened acutely, failed to hear any sound. 4 When he returned, Extree was up again, and, on seeing him, said: Li “ Hear anything?” “Nary,” said his pard. ‘Ver see,” suid Nick, ‘‘der walls are thick, In der old times dey didn’t build houses ob brown paper.” . “ Goin’ down fur good?” asked Joe, “Not much,” laughed the other, raising the from the mattress. “‘I’m going ter have a bully night’s rest,” . When the rubbish was cleared off, the lads stretched themselves upon the moldy bed, and were soon fast asleep. _ At daybreak they arose, when Extree, filling a good-sized bag with straw, pushed it into the chimney-hole. “What's that fur?” demanded his companion, “‘Woll, yer see,” answered Nick, ‘‘dere’s such a awful draft in der chimbley dat we’d be a most blowed up it. Dis’ll rest on der cross-bars an’ keep us comfortable.” “Ver smart,” said Joe. ‘ Derned if yer ain’t!” Slowly Nick pushed the bag’ beneath him until it rested upon the bars and formed a nice perch. When he returned aloft, he said to Joe: Only room fur one. Down yer go an’ take fust spell. Der wentelator creaks if yer touch it.” “S’pose we has breakfast fust?” observed the little one. : “Good fur yer, Joe; s’pose we do,” grinned Nick; and opening their basket they pitched in. Bill’s wife owned the house, but she never entered it, being detained in the official mansion ne Sing Sing. Probably this was lucky for our Oys. When their meal was over, Joe cautiously lowered himself into the chimney, and was soon out of hearing, while Extree took another snooze. Mrs. Rudolph had promised to tend the stand, and Josie delivered the morning papers to their up-town customers. About eleven o’clock Joe crept up and woke his pard, saying: ; “Dere’s a reg’ler caucus meetin’ in der parler; Old Toyer is dere, an’ Budd an’ der dertectives. "Way yer dive, Extree.” . Nick descended the shaft like a greased patch goes down a gun, and peering through the yenti- lator of the reception-room, beheld a crowd, smoking and drinking. “I tell Mate said Uncle Jonas Tover, ‘‘lct’s drop it and break up the gang. It’s getting too dangerous. Tye gos property!” - “Oh, paste up your mouth,” “we're doing a roaring trade, show your hand in it?” “No!” growled the old sinner. ‘Then dry up,” said the detective. ‘*Didn’t we fix you to rights over the gas company job?” “You didn’t get the swag!” snarled 'Tover, “That was Bill’s and your fault,” tauntingly replied the other. ‘We fixed the newsboy for ou.” Just then Extree’s heart beat like a trip-ham- mer, “Yes, an’ let ’em suspect me,” cried Budd, from the other end of the room. ‘Yer know I pot a iriend ter plant dem things under Extree’s ed.” “Haven’t we protected you since?” fiercely in- quired the detectives, all in a breath. ‘‘Don’t we wink at your decoying girls over'to Brooklyn and este sr em to your mother to be robbed? You ry up!” i a, Well,” said Budd, “I don’t touch ’em; I’m onty a roper-in.? = if “Order!” said Jonas. ‘‘Boys, which of toe will volnnteer to take poor Bill to Hermann’s?” “ How far is it, and where?” demanded ‘one of the rowdies. “I’m wanted in Brooklyn, so I can’t go there,” Jersey,” said Jonas. : ‘How much sugar?” inquired the fellow, ‘It’s dangerous to be seen in a carriage with a sick man. You detectives "turning to Piper—‘are so Smart.” : A hundred,” said Jonas, who seemed to be their boss. red said Budd, Did you ever “Not for Alfred,” laughed the cut-throat. “Tam supposed te be working up the case.” *“When will you come to fetch tim?” asked Jonas. «“Mo-night at seven o’clock,” was the reply. Just'then one of the crowd threw a lighted match on the hearth, which was choked with old newspapers. These burnt like flax, and, ere Extree waw aver of the fact, the straw beneath his feet ig- nited. ' “« My gracious!” he moaned; then grasping the bricks above him, scrambled upwards, the flames scorching his thinly-clad lower limbs. CHAPTER XX. ME-RI-AR GETS DISCHARGED, “Weiio!” cried Uncle Jonas Tover, for Ex- tree’s cry had reached him through the ventilator, Never for a moment dreaming that any ono was concealed in the chimney, and imagining that the noise had proceeded from Bill, who was in the room above, the venerable rascal continued his conversation, while half-roasted Nick reached the opening in the shaft, and landed blinded upon the atti® floor. A rush of hot air and smoke followed him and filled the place, so that for some time they could. seareely see, while Extree’s lower limbs felt as though they had been sealded. “What’s matter?” eried Joe, starting from the mattress, where he had enjoyed a luxurious sleep, ‘*Quick!” eried Nick; “ open der scuttle an’ let der smoke out.” Joe did as he was directed, and soon the yapor melted away. : “What's der matter wid yer legs?” he demand- ed, glancing at Extree’s highly-colored limbs. “Yer look as red as a lobster.” “Joe,” he moaned, for the pain was something terrible, ‘‘ go down-st%s an’ see if. yer kin find some fat; if not go out*an’ buy half a pound of fresh butter. Yer kin let yerself outan’in. If yer go easy no one’ll notice yer, an’ if dey does, Say yer come ter see der sick man.” Arranging his wayy curls before a piece of mir- ror, nailed against the dormer window, Joe gave his feminine garments a shake, then descended, reaching the basement stairs without being de- tected, and presently emerging into the street. . In his red stuff frock, thin cloak, shade hat, white stockings and low shoes, he looked just like a little Jewish girl on an errand, so no one troubled him, Entering a grocery store on the avenue, he pur- chased half a pound of fresh, country butter, then returned to the house. “Hello,” said « man he encountered on the basement stairs. ‘“‘ Who are you, hey?” “Tf you please,” he piped, imitating a Jewish gizl’s voice, ‘I’m Sarah Jacobs, come to see the sick man! My sister does chores here.” “Allright, go on,” fromled the old fellow, who was no other than Jonas Tover, and up-stairg glided the boy. Placing the butterin the hall, he knocked at the door of Bill’s room, saying: “Kin I come in, mister?” “Come,” answered the wounded one. “How are yer dis mornin’?” began the boy. “Oh, is that you, sis?” observed Bill. ‘‘ Goup- stairs and wait a few minutes, then come down again, I want to see vou.” : Joe was glad of this, and seizing the butter scooted up to Extree, who was suffering consid- erable pain. : “Got der cart grease?” he cried. “Yes,” answered Joe. “Now,” said Nick, “rub it all over my limbs fur me, for I kean’t stoop.” 3 Joe laid the butter on an eighth of an inch thick, and soon the heat began’to quit Extree’s skin, and hesaid:. : ‘«That’s spiffin’, I feel it doin’ me good already. How didyer gitit, pard?’ ; Joe briefly related his adventure with Tover, “Guess they are goin’ to shut dis shanty up,” mused Nick. ‘‘ Yer go down, Joe, and hear what Mr. Bill has ter say.” The boy gaye his petticoats a shake, in order to Kaen mn whether they were all O. K., then de scended. Bill was sitting up and looked as pale as death. — “Sis,” he said, ‘‘where’s Maria seo her,” A 4 “J can fetch her in half an hour,” said Joe. “Good,” answered the man. ‘’Way you go.” ‘Just then Uncle Jonas and Piper, the detective, entered the room, whereupon Bill observed : * Here’s the sister of the gal who does chores! I’m going to send for her to take care of tha house,” 7 «Shut it up,” growled Uncle Jonas, I want to
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EXTREE NICK. . ie ee SSsSsSsSsSsSsSsSsSsSsSsS93$SaS == Joe closed the door’ and swiftly passed up- stairs. In several. of the rooms, men whom he had never before seen tyere busily engaged in packing their luggage. For some months the house had been the place of refuge of a regular gang of bank robbers and counterfeiters, but Bill’s trouble was causing them to seek other quarters. On rejoining Extree, Joe said: “How d’yer feel, pard?” “Dat butter acted like a charm,” replied Nick. «‘T’m red an’ tender an’ can’t sit down, but it will soon pass off. I ain’t lost no skin.” Gosh,” said Joe, ‘ yer kum outer dat chimbley like a shot outera gun.” ** Nuff to make a fellow git,” groaned the boy. ; ‘Kin yer put on yer duds an’ see Blil?” inquired 08. ; “Yea,” answered our hero. ‘“ Glad I took me false hair off or I should hey bin in a nice hole. We must hurry up or der bird will hop afore we kin set der trap.” After laying on some more butter, Extree dressed himself in his feminine garb, then descend- ed to Bill’s room. elear.” : “ AN] in that stuff?” piped Nick. “Don’t yer like it?’ demanded the man. “You’re. nasty pertickler. Well, that’s all you'll get; now give me the key and go.” Extree took the counterfeits, saying: '. “Guess it’s all O. K.; then handing him the nse ay: returned with Joe, and hurried out of (eae d te th ack-carriagey 8 anding opposite the door, seeing which kek, who knew the driver, asked the man: .* ; “ Are you weet for Mr. Tover’s party?” “Yea,” he replied; “he paid me, and said if I liked to stop on my own hook I could.” “Well, yer needn’t stay any longer. Say, what'll yer charge ter take us ter Extree’s news- patd in Broadway? I know yer; yer Mr. Bax- r.? F “© Who are you?” said the man. “Friends ob’ yer nephew, Big Jemmy,” sime pered the boy. *‘ Well, jump in,” answered theman. ‘You'll psy me all right, won’t you?” “ Here’s the money,” returned Extree, handing him a dollar, and following Joe into the car- riage. On seating himself he found that the motion of the vehicle chafed him so that he was obliged to give up his position and stand, while Joe, who enjoyed the ride, observed: *Tt’s as good as goin’ tera funeral, hey 2” “Yea,” piped his companion, ‘it’s very much like it ter me. Ifeel wuss thin any corpse!” “Sore?” said Joe. “Sorel? he responded. ‘Sore ain’t no name fur it. I’mas raw asa beefsteak.” Upon arriving atthe stand, they saw Josie, who opened her eyes at them. ** What’s the matter ?” she inquired, as Extree jumped across tothe stand. “Come in, miss,” with which she opened the door of thestall. - Nick tucked one of the stray ringlets behind ne ear, and, in spite of the pain, laughed, say- ng: “No yer don’t, Josie. Dey ain’t caught yet,” then hobbled into Mr. Tom’s office. “Sit down,” said his friend. ‘* You look first- rate in girl’s clothes.” : Scouse me,” muttered Extree. ‘“ If kean’t s& down; my—my limbs are scorched. “I may paths Sees me a gal, Boss but IT feel eat J en, turnin: 5 ta, i fainting fo te te) pale, he staggered an “Quick, Joe, some water,” cried Mr. “ - “What has he been up to?” ae oe Joe hurriedly filled @ mug at the faucet, say- i ; - “He ain’t bin up, boss; he’s x eae chimbley, us ? bin half. ee a CHAPTER XXI. ~ GRABBING TWO OF THEM, WueEn Extree recovered he begged to be taken home; so Mr. Tom sent for an ambulance and had’ him conveyed to Mrs. Rudolph’s, following himself, and, when the boy was comfortably in bed, sending for a doctor, who said that the sore- ness would cease in a day or two, and that put- ting the butter on his skin had saved’ him from losing it. * : After adding more grease and flouring to Nick’s Z burn, the doctor wrapped him. tightly in a sheet, saying: ; “Keep that on yon for ‘four-and-twenty hours and you will be all right ;” then quitted. By that time it was three o’clock. *T’ve sent to the Treasury, and the gentleman willcall here befére four,” said Mr. Tom. As he was speaking, Mrs. Rudolph annotnced a strange visitor. ‘‘Let him come in,” replied Extree, and in a few moments the official was by his bedside. { ‘ Joe, who was stillin girl’s clothes, endeavored to withdraw, but Nick stayed him. é “Well; Extree,” said the gentleman, taking | his hand, ‘‘so they smoked you out, hey?” **No, boss!” he quietly returned. ‘* Dey burnt me out!” then, in his graphic way, detailed what he had heard and seen, and handed him the nickels. “You’re a pair of brave boys!” observed their visitor, marking the coins B. ‘‘ Where is Joe?” “Sa-rah !” said Extree, mimicking a woman’s voice, ‘‘ where is Joe?” *“T’m Joe!’ chuckled the lad, pretending to be bashful. “You?” demanded the official. “Yes, boss!” grinned the little chap. Joe!” ’ : The gentleman thought awhile, then said: “Joe, do you think you can follow that car- riage to-night? Your chum istoo sick to move!” “Tl try,” answered the boy. “The man Bill is wanted for the brutal mur- der of that unfortunate watchman,” continued the official; ‘atthe same time, in arresting him, we wish to secure Snell, the detective. ** Now, you get on behind the coach, and upon arriving at the ferry, descend; then, when you reach the Jersey shore, and an officer speaks to you, saying: ‘Is that the carriage?’ reply, ‘ Yes.’ If we catch them on this side Snell would swear that he was doing his duty, and was on his way to the police office with his man. If we arrest him in New Jersey, it will be different.’ **An’ Mr. Jonas. Tover?” inquired Extree. **Oan’t yer ’rest him, boss?” **We must first secure the murderer, then we'll unearth the others,” answered the official. % ote have all your work cut out for some ime!” That night two detectives watched Joe, who, clad in his own clothes, was lounging about the street, near Bill’s house, pretending to be selling papers. recisely on time Snell arrived in a hack-car- riage, and, alighting, entered the house. While the driver waitec, Joe slid up to him, saying: - ““Wanter evenin’ paper, boss? Give yer one if yer’ll lemme ride down-town wid yer.” “Up yergit!”’ said the man. And soon Joe was “Tm ‘by his side. THE blinds of the vehicle were closely drawn, and, once in, Snell would not notice the boy. Presently Bill, closely muffled in a great coat, emerged from the house, and slowly descending | the steps, climbed into the vehicle; Snell follow- ing him, bearing a small heavy package, which he PtSi in the carriage. Then, returning, acrke up the house and approaching the driver, said: ““Jersey City Ferry;” after which he stepped into the vehicle, and closed the door. As they started, the detectives mounted a light Pusey, sanding lower down the street, and fol- lowed them. These officers were Treasury detectives; not the political bummers who, under that title, dis- graced our police force. They were provided with warrants obtained from the New Jersey authorities, and aad eyery= thing nicely fixed. poe arriving at the ferry, Joe alighted, thank- ed the driver of the vehicle, and when it had pase him, ran behind, holding on lightly; ollowing them being the buggy containing the detectives, i ; There were a number of carriages waiting out- side the ferry; so Joe, still keeping his eye on «the one,” paid his fare, and awaited the vehicles passing through, when he resumed his old position in the rear of Bill’s conveyance. After they were iaily aboard the ferry-boat, one of the defectives alighted, and approaching the boy, said: : “Ts that the carriage?” “Yes,” whispered the boy. “Oan you drive?” inquired the man, _‘‘Yes,” smirked Joe, thinking that he would like ae try. 5 peeks ‘Jump up, then, into that buggy,” answered the detective, “and follow us.” ee Joe clambered upon the driver’s seat, and took the reins from the second detective, a quiet, resolute-looking man, who, without saying a|and chain and go to the theater with word, alighted and joined his companion, - “Now for it!” thought the. boy, who wag thoroughly aroused by the affair. “Weill fix two ob der gang, anyhow.” is In a few moments they arrived at the Jersey shore, and the carriage ahead was driven up the incline, where two detectives belonging to the Jersey force joined the Treasury men. - Joe started his horse and drove after the party. his eyes twinkling with excitement. Wish Extree was here,” he muttered. ; Once outside the dark gates, the detectives ranged themselves upon each side of Bill’s ve- hicle, then bidding the driver halt, lowered the windows from the outside, and presenting their revolvers cried: ‘Surrender! we want you for murder!” Bill was about to discharge his pistol at one of the men, but the latter knocked it out of hia hand, when he yieldéd and was ironed. “He’s my prisoner,” said Snell, as calmly as you please. “oo thin! You’re ours!” returned one of the Treasury men. “Jim Snell—you’ve disgraced the profession long enough!’ with which he clerped the bracelets upon the scoundrel who, employed by justice to detect thieves, had been their friend and accomplice. ~ : ‘‘All right, I guess!” said the New York de- tectives ; ‘‘ where’s the nearest police office? We must have this transfer legally done.” : “Close by,” answered the Jerseyman. * Joe,” inquired the man who had just spoken to him, “ will you drive over to Police Head-quar- ters and tell the superintendent that we have captured Bill Junker, the murderer of the bank watchman, and Snell, the detective, and that there’s a heavy box of specie in the carriage.” ‘*Yéa,” answered the boy. . : In another moment he was on his way across the river. ; On arriving at the City Hall he delivered his ‘, message to the authorities, delivered up the bug- ey and quitting the building, rushed across to the ‘elegram office, where he repeated his story,which was taken down verbatim by a short-hand writer. “Now,” said the night editor, “telegraph to our New Jersey office, and if this boy is right pay ~ him ten dollars ; meanwhile, setup the matter and have it ready for an extra.” 2 Joe waited until a reply came from New Jersey, when he received his reward. ‘ Before he quitted the office the matter was in form, and the pressmen were ready to begin. . Rushing home he told Extree of the good news, then returned in time to get some of the first copie of the edition. . Within two hours after the murderer was cap- tered, Joe was tearing up town, yering: ‘ “‘Yar—here yar extree! Full ’count ob de *rest ob de murderer an’ his pal, Detective Snell.” CHAPTER XXII. GIVING BUDD A LIFTER, Tur night Bill Junker ended his life by shoot- ing himself through the head, ana tre next morning when they opened Snell’s cell he was found absent. ‘* His political chums,” that is old Jonas, had bribed the keepers of the lock-up, and he had es- eaped, while the treasure captured with him alsa yanished) presumably into the hands of the police. The Treasury officials were. baffled, as they thought, by securing Shell, they would hear where the counterfeit money was made. Two weeks passed, and Extree had long re- covered from his singe, when, one day in a cross street above Fourteenth, he spied Budd Ketchum, Piper and Green had disappeared from the force, and their families had quitted the city, added to which, Jonas had sold his interest ig his news-stand and cleared out with the rest, Notwithstanding allthis New York was flooded with the counterfeit five-cent pieces. The detectives offered to share the $500 reward : with the newsboys; but Extree said: : t “No, thank yer. I don’t want ter take blood money!” : teins : The Treasury officer gaye the lads a sum the considered was niet repay them for thee services, and money with which to purchase coms plete female disguises, the garments of which were made for them by Josie und Mrs. Rudolph, — Nick bought a fair wig with fluffy curls, which suited his complexion, and Joe invested in a sort. of ‘hairy mop, made up of tiny corkscrew ring: ets. : “Yerbet we'll haye @ lark ankl fix dem jockies dis time!” grinned Nick, ‘Fust of all 1 must meet Mr. Budd an’ he did to you, Joe! must borrer my pas atcy : . Everything being fixed, one night the boy give him a licking for what — -4 Qe
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14 EXTREE NICK. So Ce dressed themselyes in their new disguises and quietly walked up town. Extree had aneat blue- patterned muslin frock — white undergarments, stoutish, girl’s boots, a gray, light shawl, and a white straw hat trimmed with blue ribbons, while Joe wore darker clothes and had red trimmings to his costume. ; SS Sapir murmured Nick, ‘‘isn’t the night lovely.” “Yes, Me-ri-ar!” said'Joe. ‘Shall we walk on Seventh avenue and see the fashions, dear?” whereupon Extreo whispered : “Oh, scratch yer ear and trot.” The boys proceeded on their way, and pres- ently arrived at the street in which Extree had seen Budd. : After promenading up and down for some zime, Joe said: “He aint been round to-night, Me-ri-ar ;” when a voice behind them observed: “Wot, me little sweetness! I’ve been a lookin’ fur yer!” 3 “Oh!” said Nick, in a timid, feminine voice. *« Sarah, it’s that awful masher, Captain Sniffin ;” ue being the name Budd had called himself at "8. . “Yea!” laughed the sneak thief, ‘ “Ninety!” answered the disguised man, who was wonderfully made up. zs Extree’s face turned purple through his en- deayors to control his delight. _ elling his companion by the dress, he said, in a choking voice: we Come along, Josie, If \'e don’t hurry up, yer old mash will be dead by der time we arrive!” then hastened herawway from the spot, As soon as they turned the corner into the next street, the boy burst into a roar of laughter, say- ing: “Didn’t yer know der old duck? Don’t yer conteever ? t “No!” said the girl, wondering why he was so merry. ‘ “Yer wait?” he said, checking himself. “ Le’me go an’ look at der cuss for a moment!’ Back he ran and, taking a position at the cor- _ ner, watched the organ-grinder, : Presently a woman came across the road and handed the hag a dollar, whereupon he fumbled among his rags and gave her a small package, at: the same time saying something that Extree could not hear. Another and another customer arrived, many of them giving her five and ten dollar bills, and receiving in return proportionately large pack- ages. ; Among the purchasers, for the’ disguised man was selling counterfeit five cent nickles, was a rag-and-bone-man, who had left his cart in the street where Nick was standing. ® “Til fix yer!” mused the boy, moving towards Josie. ‘* Dat’s yer little game, hey?” 4 Presently the rag-and-bone man came down the roadway, jingling the bells of his cart and glaneing round for customers. bspity ‘When he arrived opposite Josie and our boy, the latter hailed him, saying: ; “Boss, kin yer give us change fur a quarter?” — The man smiled, and taking out a package of the counterfeits, replied : «‘ Yes—where’s yer stam bes ‘ “Here yer are!” grinned Nick, handing him a twenty-five-cent coin. f The bone collector broke the package in his. hand, gave Extree five of the bright coins; and, dropping the balance into his pocket, went jingle, jingle down the street. eee: Good!” said Nick. ‘‘Now, Josie, yer go right home an’ I’ll fetch der kerridge fur yer! Dl mark dese nickels Rags!” at Half an hour after that Extree, Josie, Mrs. Ru- dolph, and Joe were on their way to visit the dy- ng marble-cutter, 1 Stu ——— CHAPTER XXIV. DIDN'T DO If THAT TrMH, > Woman-zrKx, Josie felt sorry forMr. Mulligan’ sickness, though otherwise she did not care a red: cent about him, while Extree, who hated the old marble-smasher worse than poison, laughed at- ‘| her thought about the man, saying: Ce, ; : “Consumption! pshaw, it’s whisky. He kean’t:
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> EXTREE NICK. “‘ Whero’s the old rooster’s house?” Joe inquired, as they neared the end of their destination. “T don’t know,” replied Josie; “we'd best call at his office.” Driving on the Fourth of July is a somewhat dangerous business, and Extree was obliged to keep his eyes wide open. Just as they arrived at Mulligan’s place of busi- ness, an imp of a boy threw a package of lighted Chinese crackers into the road right under the hhorse’s nose ;.but Nick was equal to the occasion. ‘The missive had come from a temporary fire- work store, a sort of polling-box placed ona ya- eant spot in Mulligan’s marble-yard, and after fir- lng them, the boy who had done the trick had quitted the structure, { Jumping from the driving-seat, Extree picked up the smoking string of lobster-leg-looking erackers and slung it into the store; right among a box of torpedoes, then, starting his horse ata rapid pace, remounted and drove over the brow of the hill. Seurcely were they out of danger when ‘bang ” ‘went the torpedoes, and “bang-bang-bang ” snapped the crackers, knocking the temporary structure into kindling, scaring its attendant al- most out of his senses, and bringing together a crowd of inquisitive ladies and gents. ~‘Howly Mowses !” ejaculated one. “Me graycious |”. laughed another. “ Begorra!” shouted athird. ‘It’s gone higher den Beecher!” « An’ made as much noise!” grinned a fourth. An’ all through a little spark!’ said a fifth. ‘Begorra, I’m found out!” whispered the old scamp, who had shammed sickness in order to entrap Josie into marrying him; saying which he leaned back a the pillow and qhuckled. “Oh, yer didn’t fool Nick,” growled Extree, “ Mulligan,” sternly observed the judge, ‘ you have behaved shameful to this young lady.” “JT thought you were dying,” said Josie, indig- nantly. ‘You are a bad old man to pretend suc an awful thing;” then addressing her lover, pleaded: “ Extree, take me away.” “Not before dis ole sinner has pologized,” snapped Nick. y ulligan half rose in the bed, and, turning his sly old wizened face toward her, said, in a soft, persuasive voice, “Sure an’ didn’t I do itall fur loye; and does the purty colleen ax me to say anything in order to explain that?” adding: “‘ Wait awhile, me darlin’, when I really scratch me ear an’ trot, as 188 tould me to do so swately, maybe ye’ll find loved ye better thin ye thought;” then kissing his hand to her, fell back, and ejaculated: “Tim Brady, I'd like a drap ov the crayter. Begorra, that newsboy has sowld me.” The lawyer and the judge accompanied Josie and her friends to the door, explaining that they had no idea the old man was shamming, and Or pe ted the girl upon her refusal of his offer, Joe, who seemed astonished that they were not followed by a gang of rowdies, took a back seat, and, as they settled themselves, said: “Ts der old dodger dead?” “No,” grinned Extree, starting the horse; ‘‘der performance is post-poney-ed.” CHAPTER XXY. PIPING AN ORGANIST, “Mark my words,” said Mrs. Rudolph, as Nick pulled_up at the first ice-cream saloon on the road, ‘‘ Josie, something will come of this.” “ One thing will,” merrily replied the girl, who had recovered her usual good spirits. “What is that?” smilingly demanded Extree, ordering ‘‘cream for four.” “ T’l] never believe that horrid old man again,” she said. - “T thought dere was goin’ ter be a muss, ob- served Joe, pitching inat the plate of cream that the waiter set before him. “Say, do der doctors tink der old rooster will recover!” “Dr. Extree thinks so,” laughingly answered | Josie, inserting her spoon in her portion of the iey delicacy, ‘‘ Well, I’m glad it’s all over.” They chatted awhile, then paid for their refresh- ments, and remounting the vehicle, returned to- wards the city. ; “Nick,” said Joe as they droye on board the areal, “Take mother an’ Josie to der City Hall Park an’ let dem see der fireworks in style.” Good idea,” said our hero, and half an hour afterwards they were drawn up among the crowd waiting for the usual loyal display. Closetothem were agang of rowdies, one of whom was Snell disguised as a workman. : He knew that his late arrest had been caused basicly and that the boy was an active, bitter my. Taking his place near the express wagon, he be- gan to think what he could do to revenge himself. It was pitch dark. ; After musing awhile Snell took a pair of small flyers from his pocket and proceeded to loosen the axle caps of Nick’s vehicle. = 18 Just then a rocket flashed into the air, and the quick eyes of little Joe took in his intention at a glance. “Nick,” he whispered, ‘‘a feller is unscrewin’ our wheels.” The arrival of some policemen on the spot caused the companions of the ex-detective to move further on, while Snell, not observing this, con- tinued his flendish work, “Joe” breathed Extree, drop down on der oder side an’ tell der cops ter grab der cuss!” 3a little thought what a haul he was about to make. His pard did as he was directed, and just as Snell had completed his task, two officers grab- bed him and walked him off, Nick and Joe follow- ing, whilea third policeman kept guard over the wagon. i Luckily, upon arriving at the City Hall, they met one of the Treasury detectives, who recog- nized Snell and arrested him on the old charge; Extree suying that he did not want to prosecute the man for loosening the Sie of the axles. Borrowing the plyers, which the police had secured, Nick returned to the wagon and re- screwed the caps; then, sending Joe’ back with the instrument and relieving thé officer in charge, he remounted and enjoyed the sight, the fire- works being particularly good. During one of the pauses, Josie said to him: ‘Why did you go away and leave that police- man with us?” . ‘We've nabbed me noble Snell,” he whispered. “« He won’t git away this pop; they’ve sacked all the old gang at the Tombs, besides der Treasury officers hey got him,” The next day, the papers announced: ‘‘ ARREST OF THE NOTORIOUS SNELL. GALLANT AcY oF THE POLICE. THE EX-DETECTIVE IN IRONS.” When Nick stuck this notice up in front of his stand, he winked at Mr. Tom McNally, say- ing: a “Dey orter put, Gallant act ob Josieour news- gal, who didn’t scream or fuss when der arrest was made. Don’t yer tink so, boss?” ‘Or, better than that,” laughed his friend. ‘Gallant act of Extree Nick, the newsboy, and of his pard, little Joe Sp ee who, between them, did all the work of securing the ex-detect- ive.” Nick laughed, saying: j “Oh, we must give der officers a chance some- times. Der cops are improvin’. Nick has show- ed ’em der trick.” : About eleven o’clock he called at the Treasury office and informed the official how the counter- feiters were working. * Are you sure that it was Green?” demande the gentleman. _ “ Just so sure as I’d know yer by yer hands, boss,” quickly replied the newsboy. ‘ Yer’ve got four teeny warts, in a cluster, or yer right hand, an’ der little finger oy yer left has bin broke,” 5 “You're a regular detective!’ exclaimed the other. ‘*I might say you know more than half our officers do.” “Yea, boss,” he said, “I oughter; scratchin’ roun’ New York sellin’ papers fur a livin’, makes a feller keep his eyes open. I’d back myself ty any ob yer crowd, though I am only anews- Oy.” “You have shown yourself smart, honest and diligent,” said his friend. ‘* Now, if Snell will not confess, I must trust to you.” “An’ Josie an’ Joe,” smilingly interrupted Nick. ‘’Scuse me, but yer must give dem a show; dey’re real smart, boss.” ; “Good!” ‘said the gentleman, not minding Nick, stopping his speech. ‘‘ You, Josie and Joe must put your heads together and follow Green! He must be traced. These countertett fiye cent nickles are giving our merchants great annoyance, as they prevent customers from tak- ing the good Ones, and change is scarce. Coma here to-morrow, and I will give you some in- structions ; meanwhile you and Joe keep your eyes open.” : se yi oe he rose to depart, Extree said with great eee ey are Oh, We've pounded Mr. Budd Ketchum.” *‘ Done what?” smiled the other. “Hove him inter his aunt’s cream ser-loon laughingly answered the boy ra ay deseribing his adventure with Joe and the etchum gang. ‘We don’t want him yet,” observed the official. __ “He is a mean creature, and my detectives re- | port that he fights clear of the co} nterfeit buse ness. I think that you served him out well.” ~~ “* Boss,” cried Extree, as he retreated toward — the door, “it would hey charmed yer ter see dat crowd tryin’ ter scramble outer der cream. Mr. noble Budd took us for two strong Irish gala.
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z toward the Jersey City Ferry. ment, he darted across town, arriving at the Nick?” of the car, whiapering 16 Guess he'll drop der biz now,” with which he took himself off. ‘That day nothing particular occurred, and when the eyening papers were delivered, Nick saun- tered down town, keeping his eyes open for Green. A little above Grand Street he came across.a white-haired old man with a long beard, crouch- Ing onthe sidewalk, and operating on the same old hand-organ the woman had used. £3 Nick sauntered carelessly by, whistling, and when he arrived opposite the old. man ‘he tossed a cént into the tin cup, when out came the aged one’s hand, and Extree saw that it was Green. “Tort I knowed der old masheen,” he mur- mured, as he moved off, ;faking up a position in a neighboring doorway, he rapped on the panel, although uw notice on it showed that the place was ‘“‘'l’o be Let,” then Kept his eye on the organist, fter awhile, a number of persons, among whom were two car conductors, went to the “grinder” for change, or rather to purchase the counterfeits, and about seven o’clock he had evi- dently sold out. When he thought that the coast was clear, Green shouldered his organ, and moyed slowly The newsboy allowed him to get out of sight, after which, emerging from his place of conceal- ferry a long time before the organist. “Me noble Mr. Green,” he murmured, “ I’ve got yer dis time, Yer kean’t fool Nick!’ OHAPTER XXYVI. THE SKEETERS GO FOR EXTREE. “Yer a awful artful cuss,” mused our hero, as Green trudged feebly into the ferry house. The boy, who knew that he must“ lie low,” had ensconsced himself behind some German emigrants, who were clustered in the center of the waiting room, and was as safe as a bank. The ancient-looking organist slunk into a eorner, and when the boatarrived, hurried aboard, followed by Nick. : Upon reaching the Jersey side, Green shambled off at a rapid pace, and presently entered a car bound for Elizabeth. : “Boardin’ in der country for der summer,” thought the boy. ‘ Well, me noble Green, I’ll get yer a permanent hash-mill afore I’ye done wid er,” with which he bought a ticket and cautious- worked through the train, spying his man inJ the foremost car busily purchasing an evening aper. x Re the newsboy, who had sold him the sheet, moyed on, Nick winked at him to step into the next car, which was empty. _ “Why, how dyer do, Wixtree?” exclaimed the fad, who knew him. ‘Goin’ out to git yer skin tickled for de season?” 2 *« Many ’skeeters out here?” laughed Nick. “‘Many?” derisively returned his acquaintance, «Gol dern’em, dey jes’ taps yer as a bar-tender does a fresh keg of lager. Drivesin deir faucets an’ sets yer runnin’. Many ’skeeters? Why, out where I lives, der’s solid blocks of ’em.” _ “Oh, seratch yer ear an’ trot!” laughingly ob- served our boy; “yer kean’t play dat on me! Yer don’t fool Nick dat way.” «Whore yer gwine?” once more inquired the news-vender. : . “‘Yersolda paper ter a old rooster wid a organ, jes’ now,” said Extree, mM a low tone, His chum nodded, saying: =‘ He’s one ov a crowd as travels on dis line a ‘ood deal; dey allus carries dat old mewsecal ‘akemint wid ’em. Yer don’t know him, do yer, _ <‘ Why?” asked our boy.. E . “Well, der gang he belongs ter, ain’t on der square!” winked his friend. ; “* No?’ said Extree. _ “No,” murmured the other; then noticing that another boat had arrived, added: ‘‘we’re off now. Tl run through der train an’ come back to yer arter we get well started.” aes . Rising, Nick re-entered the. car containing the organist, and watched his movements. Presently a healthy looking youth, with a voice like an echo, came through the train, bleating: oii Popeorn 1? : . The old man, or rather Green, bought twenty- five cents worth, and paid him in counterfeit nickels, ; : d _ A boy with strawberries next entered, and of him the old fellow purchased six boxes, paying | - in the same “stuff.” » Just then the news agent, Nick’s friend, arrived on the scene and was about to say something to the fruit-vender, when Extree motioned him out EXTREE NICK. “ D’yer know dat boy?” : “‘He’s me brother,” answered the other. ‘I ain’t goin’ ter ‘low dat old fraud ter shove der queer on ter him.” “Hush!” said Nick. ‘“ Let him markder nick- els an’ keep dem; here’s der dollar an’ a half. I’m pipin’ der old ’un.” ; “Yer ain’t a dertective, are yer?’ demanded his friend. “No,” grinned ourhero. ‘I’m a derned sight }. smarter den a cop! I’m Extree Nick, der York newsboy.”. ‘The conductor shouted ‘all aboard,” so the news agent rushed away, and hurriedly informed his brother what to do. When the train was well off Nick’s friend sought him, saying: \ “Come inter der baggage ker.” ° Watching until the ex-detective was looking out of the window, Extree slipped by him and was presently helping his friend fold and sort papers. “Dem five-cent nickels looks O, K.,” said the news agent, whose name was Gumpher, and who was known in the professionas Gum. ‘He used to shove bright money, but now, if what he’s given Sam is queer, it’s just like any other ter look at!” < tale yer brother ter mark ’em?” inquired ick. * Yea,’*nodded Gum. on each,” ; ‘ “Yer know der old rooster, do yer?” said Ex- ree, “Yea,” replied the boy. ‘‘ What yer up ter, Nick? Can't wee tell a fellow, hey?” Extree briefly recounted how he had been hunt- ed down by Jonas Toyer and accused of burg- lary, tried, re-tried, and acquitted, and now he had vowed never toset foot in his news-stand un- til he had brought his defamers to justice; his burning, graphic story moving his friend and causing e latter, from time to time, to ejacu- ate: “Dern ’em! Bully fur Josie! Bully fur Joe! Yer fixed ’emi Darned funny!” and to other- wise express his approbation of the narrative. Nick was often interrupted in his recital, as pam had to deliver papers to the wayside news- joys. “Now, will you help me?” he demanded, as they neared Elizabeth, * Will I help eer answered Guin. “ Yer bet I will, Extree! Didn’t I go ter yer farder’s funeral? Ay course Vl help yer! Here’s Hilzabeta; der ole rooster gits off here,” By that tine it was quite dusk, so Nick was en- abled to follow the old man, without attracting his notice. As the cars thundered away from the depot, a very aged-looking woman joined Green and the two went shopping together. “Another stall!” muttered Extree. ‘‘I wonder who de other ole duck is? She’s got der same togs on as me noble Green wore yesterday |” The pair moyed about Hlizabeth City, purchas- ing various supplies, far more than two persons could eat, the old woman stowing them with the boxes of berries in a big market-basket. “Dis is gittin’ excitin’?’? murmured our hero, as they selected and paid for six pounds of tender-loin steak. “ Dey must keep a boardin’-house |” Strangely enough the crone never spoke, but would poke at her purchases, and nod to Green; who did all the talking. After roaming about until they reached the out- skirts of the city, they proceeded to a low rum- mill, and, entering a stable in the rear, deposited the organ and their purchases in a dilapidated buggy, then procuring a jug of whisky, mounted into the trap, started the old horse, and retracing their route, drove across the railway track to- wards Newark. : Extree was a good runner, so, tightening his belt, he trotted off after the pair, and the night being starlit, succeeded in keeping them in view. Past elegant villa-residences, a neat church, more villas, many of them brilliantly lighted, an by a number of partly finished buildings, then to the right, turning down a by-road and recrossing the railroad track, drove Green and his friend, little thinking that Nick was padding it afterthem. As they advanced the road become more wretch- ed, and at length they paused, let down some bars, and entered a private way, winding in and out among a swampy track swarming with mosquitos, Extree had heretofore encountered only a few of thos lively insects—the skirmishers of the main army of New Jersey that was lurking in the swamps; now he was face to face with the entire swarm. They werein heavy clouds, and in five minutes his face wasso swollen that he could scarcely see, while Green and the old woman were cursing and driving like mapiaes. ae cet Kneeling, Nick scooped up some of the damp, ew “Told him ter put E. N. _ | peaty earth and slapped it upon his face and neck, then rose to follow, but, in his agony, took the wrong road and fell headlong into a pond, After swimming for a while, witha halo of mos- quits hovering about him, he crawled out, saying: “Tf dis yer’s bein’ a detective—give me der extree bia)” CHAPTER XXVIL JOSIE’S TROURLES. ‘‘Rieut, nine, ten, eleven,” said Joo, as he turned over on his bed. *“*I’ll see ef Extree has got home.” : Then, rising, he entered Nick’s room. The moon was shining in at the window, re- vealing an empty bed. Just then some one in the living apartment coughed, SS It was Josie, “}ixtree in dere?” inquired Joe, ; “No,” sobbed the girl. ‘I’ve been dreaming all sorts of things about him; he hasn’t returned,” The boy slipped on his clothes, and joining her, said: * “Don’t yer take on, Josie; he’s gonearter dem fellers.” “ He'll get killed,” she said, in a sorrowful tone. ~ ‘‘T wish he’d drop hunting after counterfeiters ; it’s work for men, not boys.” “ Peugh!” snorted Joe, who was hurt by her re- mark. ‘‘That’s all yer know about it, Josie. Der men kean’t hold a candle ter our Nick; be- sides, ain’t he a manly feller, hey?” “And you,” she half-laughingly retorted, “you're as bad as-heis.. Poor Extree. I dream- ed that he was lying dead, killed by that horrid, shocking, shameful, dreadful old wretch, Uncle Jonas 'Tover.” Joe chuckled, saying: “You know dreams allus goes by contraries ; more likely Jonas hag got his little ’count sottled ; don’t yer worry ’bout Hixtree,” : “But I do, I must, [-will!” she vehemently re- plied. ‘You don’t care for him as I do. He isn’t much to you, If he’s dead you'll only feel sorry ; it will kill me.” “Josie,” he reproachfully answered, ‘ yer know: yer don’t mean dat; J’d die fur Nick,” “Oh, Joe,” she cried, giving him a kiss, “ for- give me. I know you think the world of him.” ‘*Der world,” murmured the newsboy. “I tink more of him den I do of two worlds. What should we do widout Eixtree?” Joe,” she pleaded, I’m half erazy with anxiety; you'll forgive me, won’t you, when I ask you to help me persuade him to give this business up?” ‘* What!” cried the boy, “arx Extree Nick ter go back on hissell? Josie, tt keawt be did,” » ‘© But they will kill him,” she sobbed. ' “Look here, Josie,’ he softly replied, “IL knows yer feel bad—’cos yer mashed on Nick— ut—” : Here she rose and indignantly observed : i ; ‘ a mashed—you know better, Joseph Ru- dolph.” , % The newsboy smiled and then continued: “‘T mean ter say, Irlree’s dead gone mashed on yer, Miss Perry; yer don’t think I’d insinuate yer wus makin’ up ter him, do yer?” i Spite of her sorrow, Josie was obliged to laugh. - ‘Come, you young folks, it’s time you poppe : talking,” said Mrs. Rudolph. “ Josie, you go back to bed. Extree will be back in time to get his morning papers, and you, Joe, turn in directly.” “All right, mother,” he dutifully answered, adding in alow tone to the troubled girl, ‘‘ Now you just go an’ take some sleep; if yer don’t I’ tell Extree dat 1s waited up fur him.” Five o’clock the next morning arrived, but no Nick came, and Josie’s red eyes showed that she had passed a sleepless night. “Don’t worry,” said Joe, as he assisted her to open the stand. ‘“T’ll go up town an’ serye der route;” then as he ran along Broadway, he thought, ‘Oh, she ain’t mashed on him, ay course not,” When he returned, Josie darted round to her Podgings to See if Extree had got back, but Mrs. Rudolph only shook her head at her, saying: “No signs of the seamp!””. Upon reaching the stand, she beheld a sight that made her flush and tremble. There stood, or rather tried to stand, her father, addressing, or attempting to address, Mr, Tom, while little Joe was biting his lips with vexation, and endeavoring to stop the old man’s driyeling story. : : : Ever since the day that the girl began to earn wages she had done her best: to assist her de- — graded parents, her only request being: ; * Don’t come near me,” Lg When she took to tending the stand, she pel : their fare to Philadelphia, and every week since, ~ Sy 05 Z aise,
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? \ ¥ EXTREE NICK. ety SSS eee eee eee S=~=~_o SS SSS nn aaa enn aanaaennien mean had remitted them two-thirds of her earnings ; but now, against their agreement, they had re- turned: “Yesh,” maundered her drunken parent, ‘ Jo- ‘shie’s me gurl, begorra! She wouldn’t take de name av her felle’-—hie—she said. She washn’t *shamed—oy—hic—Perry | Understhand me, boss? I’m Mish Perry’s father!” bled. Just then Mr. Tom noticed her and saw that she was tortured beyond power of speaking. Stepping quickly forward, she gave him a look full of misery—a look 'that haunted him for the next hour; then neryously grasping her father by the left wrist, led him away. Z “Where’s yez felle’?” slobbered the drunken beast. “I want—see—hic—yer felle’?” but she urged him along until they arrived in a quiet eross street, when she turned upon him, saying: “ Father 1” : . ‘Josie, my—hic—schild !” he began, endeayor- ing to smile, but she checked him with: “Father, is this your return for my kindness?” “ Lishen,” he said, clawing at her in his drunk- en playfulness. ‘I wanth dollar?” ‘© Not a cent more will you haye from me,” she hissed. “Nol” he sneered. “By gosh, I will!” then fell backwards into an empty crate that stood on the sidewalk. Josie looked at him so scornfully, that, drunk as he was, the flush of shame came to his cheeks, and he began to weep. . Just then two boys came out of the store and made an attempt to overturn the crate and pitch him headlong into the street, when she stayed them, saying: _‘*He’s my father!” : “He’s drunk,’ observed one of the boys. «Shall we send for a cop?” “No,” she answered. ‘Help him out and let him go. Your fatherg.might some day be as he bin sy ‘*Mine very often gore so,” said the other lad, taking Perry by the arm. At that moment an expressman, whom Josie knew, passed with his wagon, and, seeing her in trouble, inquired if he could help her, } Yes,” she nodded, biting her pretty lips until - the blood came; ‘ will you take him,” pointing to the drunken man, swaying between the boys, “home?” then giving the expressman an address, she turned away, her face and neck crimsoned with shame. “Yer derned loafer,” she heard the man say, «for two pins I'd cart yer down to a pier and dump yer inter a dirt barge. Yer don’t deserve such a child as Josie.” For some time the poor girl walked aimlessly up.and down Broadway, scarcely knowing what she was about. “ Oh,” she moaned, ‘“ what have I done that they should treat meso? I have giyen them all I ha to spare, every cent, and done all I could to help them, and kept it from Extree, who thinks Ihave a little of something saved up against sickness. Why did father come and disgrace me in Mr. Tom’s eyes? God help me; all my trouble comes at once.” After a while she returned to the stand, and taking her usual place, said to her companion: “Joe, run round and see if Extree has returned.” CHAPTER XXVIII. 3 JOY AND SORROW. WHEN little Joe had vanished, Mr. Tom came _ Out of the office and, handing Josie a note. passed down Broadway. It was such a novel thing for him to do, that tho girl blushed and hesitated to open it, and, as some customers came along just then, she laid the <ommunication aside, and did her best to sell the new arrivals a bill of books, Since the formation of the firm of Extree, Josie and Joe, she had enlarged their stock, adding popular books and stationary, and, as she was lever and\obliging, had quite a number of good customers. ; After wrapping up the articles selected, she gave the folks their change, and was about to take up Mr. Tom’s epistle, when Joe entered, all out of breath, saying: ¢ : “ Bixtree’s come back wid a head on him!” “How?” she demanded, for he seemed as though guying her. “What do you mean? Is he safe?” . “He's swelled up like a be-loon,” panted Joe. 4] tell yer, Josie, yer won’t know him; he’s got a bead on him like a prize pumpkin, same as yer goes in der restaurang winders.” -Thrusting the note into her bosom, she quitted BS the stand, and ran every step of the way to Mrs. Budolph’s; then entering the living room, cried: ata ea] mat a The color fled from her face, and her lips trem- *‘Eixtree, Extree, where are you?” when a By distorted figure, seated in a chair with his head swathed in wet cloths, attempted a cheer, but failing, on aceount of swollen features, mumbled: «© Yum, yum, Jo-the.” For some moments the girl gazed upon him with horror depicted on every feature of her pretty face, then, nearing him, pityingly said: “Good gracious me, are you my Extree?” «Yum, yum,” replied the boy, holding out a hand that looked like a boxing-glove. At that instant Mrs. Rudolph entered, and see- ing Josie, said: : ** Ain’t he in a state ?” The girl shed tears, not because she was soft, but out of love for the sufferer. “Yum, yum, Jo-the,” said Nick, meaning, “don’t ery, Josie.” «“Poor Extree,” she said. “Oh, he’ll soon be better,” observed Mrs. Ru- dolph. ‘* Now you go and lie down for awhile, Josie. The doctor says that this stuff—sedative paler, he calls it—will reduce the swelling in no ime.” The girl retired to her own room, thanked Heaven for, sparing her loyer’s life, and throwing herself, on the bed, fell fast asleep. 3 When she awoke it was growing dusk, and she could hear Extree in the next room whistling. “ He’s better, anyhow,” she thought. Hastily making her toilet, she went to him, and found him as lively as a lark, and almost re- covered, “ Hello, Josie,” he cried; “sorry yer was scared, but I couldn’t git back afore.” ““You’ve been in a dreadful state,” she said. ** How is your mouth ?” ‘“T’ve bin in der State of New Jersey,” hesauci- ly replied. “It’s a nice enough State, only der *skeeters are over-populatin’ it;” then drawing near her, added, ‘tan’as for me mouf, it only wants wan ting ter fix it better’n ever.” * What’s that?” she innocently asked. ‘Fur yer jes’ ter lay yer lips on it,” he said, giving her a hearty kiss. He yery seldom thus offended, so Josie for- gave him and returned his tribute, saying: «There, take it back.” As she withdrew from his arms, the note handed to her by Mr. Tom fell to the floor, and Extree spying it, observed : “Yer’ve dropped a love-letter.” Flushing with mingled pride and sorrow, for the sight of the epistle reminded her of her shame, she said: *T haye not read it, Extree. It’s from Mr. Tom. Yow read it.” . “Mr. Tom send yer billy-dews?” he laughingly asked. ‘‘I must inquire into dis.” » *“ Extree,” she said, bending her pretty face, “my father came to the office to-day.” “Tight?” he murmured. **Yes,” she answered, blushing like a red rose. wy Oh, Extree, you will never take to drink, will “Not while yer takes ter me,” he quietly re- plied, opening the envelope. ‘Never mind, my dear, yerve done yer duty to yer old man.” “That I have,” she softly returned, watching him, While Nick perused Mr. Tom’s letter, his lips trembled and his chest heaved with emotion. When he had read every word, he said: “God bless him! he’s a bully man,” then handed the note to her. After reading it, Josie wiped her eyes, saying: ‘«Extree, [love and respect Mr. Tom, just as I would like to love and respect my father;” after which she read the communication aloud, as fol+, lows: “ Drar Miss PeRRy—Pray do not imagine that the sad scene to which you were just now sub- jected will make any difference in the high es- teem I haye for yout Extree has told me of our noble conduct to your parents. Remember am always Your friend, “Tom McNAuy.” « How did der old man carry on?” asked Nick. “ As usual,” sighed the poor girl, “Mr. Tom is white, ain’t he?” said Extree. “TI tell yer he’s bin a true friend ter us right clean through the piece. He treats poor folks jes’ as he does rich ones.” “Yes,” said Josie, nodding her head. “He doesn’t despise me because he has seen—my— folks?” father.” ‘What yer mean ter do wid der old demanded Nick. ‘ Josie, yer must shake ’em!” “Never!” she fervently replied. “I'll try to change their habits. ‘can’t abandon them; they’re my father and mother, Extree.” “Thats so,” he mused. ‘Josie, yer’ll pull outer dis all right.” ‘ -**Come, Extree,” she said, ‘tell me how you came to stay away all night? You alarmed me dreadfully.” “Well, yer see,” he laughingly began, “Ifnet a chum oy mine on der train—Gum, we calls him— fur I’d tracked me noble Green as far as der Jer- sey City railway. Gum will help me wid dis yer biz. Well, Green got off der train at "Lizabeth 3 jined Lot’s wife, or an old critter who looked e her.” “ Are you sure that she was a woman,” inter- osed Josie. ‘I begin to doubt everykody. Per- aps it was Tover.” “ Right yer are,” he cried, as though he had hit upon a trail. “Dat ole woman was me noble Uncle Jonas, dern him! *Scuse me, Josie. I tort I knowed his voice. He never spoke until dey drove inter der crowd ob skeeters. I tort me knowed me noble’s voice.” While he was describing his adventures, and how he had spent the night wandering in the Jer- per. marshes, Mrs. Rudolph hurriedly entered. - he had been taking charge of the store while Joe delivered the evening papers. “Josie,” she said, ‘don’t be frightened, my. dear, yet prepare yourself for some awful news.” The girl trembled, saying: Tel] me, has anything occurred to my father?” CHAPTER XXIX, THE END OF A SORROW THE BEGINNING OF A JOY, “Your father has met with a bad accident,” nervously replied Mrs. Rudolph. ‘‘ Extree, take Josie to the New York Hospital. Mr. Perry wants to see her at once.” It was a hot, murky night, and the streets were like ovens; spite of which the girl and boy ran most of the way to the hospital, and neither of them spoke a word. : Presently they arrived at the grand entrance, and, upon informing the porter who they were, succeeded in obtaining admittance. “his way,” said the head nurse of the ward to which they had been directed. “I am glad that you havé come,” then led to a bed upon which reclined a man covered with a sheet that in places was ruddy with blood. s they approached, an attendant whispered: ‘You are just in time; he is sinking rapidly,” after which she administered a stimulant to the sufferer. movies Perry’s eyes were glazed and he could not see, but he knew his girl’s voice. “« Josie,” he murmured, stretching forth a maim- ed hand and endeavoring to feelfor her. “Josie.” “Here is your Josie, father,” she said, bending over him, and kissing his white lips. ‘Cheer up! you will get well, and——” here she paused, and was unable to end her speech. : Faintly, for he was almost exhausted, the poor fellow whispered : * Josie, can you forgive me ?” “A thousand times,” she passionately raising his head upon her left arm, | father, look at me;” but Perry was unable to do more than press her hand. In a few moments he sighed and died. The nurses withdrew, leaying Josie and the poy with the dead. fea) t was now Extree’s turn to comfort her. When she had preyed by her father, and crossed his hands upon his om, she covered the face with her handkerchief, then retired with her com- panion, Her tears had ceased to flow, but her heart was full of sorrow. / ; After arranging for removing the body, sheand Extree left the hospital, and proceedad to the lodging of her mother. Mrs. Perry, who had witnessed the accident, was indulging in “‘a drop” in order to drown her replied, “Oh! ‘sorrow ; a number of friends and neighbors join- ing and assisting her in disposing of the liquid. osie arrived just as they had almost emptied one jug, and were endeavoring to induce Mrs. Perry to “‘ sind fur another drap.” } The girl overheard the request, and, entering the room, cried: ; - in “Not another sup! Doyou know that my fath- er is‘dead?” * Dead!” shouted Mrs. Perry, throwing herself upon the bed and going off into hysterics; while the half-intoxicated crowd began to how] like a pack of she-wolves. r * Extree !” said Josie, “ clear them out of this.” In two minutes the yawping women were streaming down-stairs, and thejoy and girl were alone with the widow. yay Josie was true grit, andthe death of her father had changed her into woman. — c She had a duty to perform, and meant to do ft, - “ Wixtree,” she quietly observed, “draw me @ bucket of cold water.” — aes PEF same tees
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~ Our hero knew that she was terribly in earnest, so did not pause to ask any questions, but after hunting up the required article, filled it at the hydrant. -_ “Now you go outside and wait!” she said, and away he went. 'Taking a ron she filled if with the cold fluid and dashed its contents over her mother; the shock causing the latter to come to her senses, and to gasp: * Jo-Jo-Jo-sie, what’s the matter?” but the girl did not reply, and bailed away as though ex- tinguishing a fire; drenching her parent to the skin, and soon rendering her more sober than she had been in several years; while Extree, who _ overheard the circus, could scarcely restrain from laughing. i » “My good gracious!” at length ejaculated Mrs. Perry, ‘‘ Jo-Jo-Jo-Josie?” “Well, moter?” responded the plucky gitl. - “Be me sowl but I’m kilt!” shivered the dump woman. “I shall git me dcath a-cawld.” “Where’s the back alpaca dress I sent you?” demanded her daughter. “Sure an’ it’s not a pare driss yez'll be after | é axin’ me fur, wid yez father lyin’ did, me child,” said Mrs. Perry. ‘It’s a black day fur me; he came home an’ bate rae, an’ when I tried to es- cape he fell ober the banisters ay the stairs, and got smashed.” “Mother,” quiétly interposed Josie, ‘‘ give me the tickets for your clothes. I know where your garments are;'they’re pawned.” 2 “¥Faix ye’re smart, Josie,” said her parent. “De tickets are in the old taypos inde cupboard.” ‘* Mother,” observed de girl, emptying the last ' drain of whisky into the sink, “Extree will stay here to keep those women away from you.” . “Sure, Josie darlin’, an’ yez wouldn’t exhibit me- to yer felly as I am,” adding aside, ‘och, she’s spilt de swate drap into de drain.” “No,” answered her daughter, going to the eup- board and shaking the pawn tickets out of the tea~ _ pot. ‘ We'll remain outside, When Extree sees you again you'll be fit to look at,’ then, taking the youchers, she went out of the door, locked it, and handed the key to Nick, saying: ‘I shan’t be very long.” Josie,” he hurriedly whispered, ‘yer must le’me order the funeral. ‘Taint no kinder biz fur yer, Josie.” “Very well,” she answered, and in another in- 3tant was gone, ‘When the sound of her voice had ceased, her mother knocked at the door, whispering: “Hello!” he oried. © Extree, darlin’,” she said, ‘‘won’t yez stip | down to Mrs. McShane’s an’ ax her to sind me just a drap of whisky? Iam dyin’ of cawld.” Nick grinned, saying: “Tt can’t be did, nolow, Miss Perry.” “Sure, Nick, darlin’, jest a tayspoonful,” she whined, endeavoring to imitate ashiver. ‘ Boo- ooh, I’m so cawld!” but all in vain; whereupon she tried bullying, saying: “ Yer a nice, swate felly fur a son-in-law! I shan’t give me consint to me gal havin’ the likes av yez, there how!’ whereupon Extree pee his mouth to the key- hole; and whispered: “ Miss Perry, d’yer know what yer kin do?” “ What, ye mane little poet she snapped, for she was real mad with him. ‘Her ear was closely préssed to the opposite site ee the key-hole, so’ Nick breathed softly nto it: “Yer kin seratch yer earan’ trot, marm. Yer kean’t fool Nick! If yer was more like yer daugh- |. ter it would be der greater ter yer credit.” Hear- ing which she retired. ? After awhile Josie returned, and, taking the _ key from the boy, entered the room, where she assisted her mother to dress, attending her as . kindly and lovingly as though she had been the best parent in the world, and combing the wom- an’s frowsy hair until it looked quite handsome. When she was ready, the poor girl said: “Mother, I am going to take you home—to Mrs. Rudolph’s. Will you promise, until I ask you to do ti, never to drink another drop of in- toxicating liquor? Itis for your own good that I say this,” : : _ “Shure,” began her parent; but Josie stopped fer with; “Mother, for my sake?” : - Tl thry,” she answered. “Say I will,” urged her daughter. “Let this black day be the last on which you will sin. Pret nas you don’t do this, you will break my © FROM rss oe rae . “YT promise,” firmly replied the woman. Josie, you are an angel!” The brave girl kissed her; then, opening the por, said to the awed boy: ; st Eixtreo, my moéther.” Lat EXTREE: NICK. Nick took Mrs. Porry’s hand, and, shaking it, murmured: “Tm proud ter know yer, marm.” From that-hour the woman abandoned her evil course; Josie’s devotion had overcome her mother’s weakness, ——— CHAPTER XXX. PUDD WANTS NICK TO DO THE TRICK. Extree and Josie buried Perry, and the firm subscribed to set Mrs. P. up with a fruit-stall, which she placed on the corner of Broadway and the side stroet, in sight of the news-stand. When the funeral was over, Nick went down to the Treasury office and reported his adyen- tures in New Jersey. “Very good, so far,” said the official. ‘‘Now you follow then) up—we haye. plenty of proof with which to convict Green; now can’t you catch Jonas Tover passing bad money?” “He’s such a sly old duck,” grinned the boy. ‘‘He’s like a skeeter—yer put yer finger on him an’ he ain’t dere.” “Well, you talk it over with your partners,” re- marked the gentleman. “I guess you will hit upon some plan.” “Tl try,” answered the boy, after which he took his leave. One afternoon, when he was delivering papers up-town, he spied Budd Ketchum, dressed in the Jatest fashion, escorting a woman old enough to be his mother, As he passed them, Budd withdrew his arm from his companion, and, motioning Nick that he required a paper, whispered: : “Wait for me round the corner—hear?” Yea,” Piet observed Extree, adding, in an undertone: ‘ Who hey yer bin robbin’ now— hey?” ** Scsch, she’s my 1wife,” winked the sneak, then passed on, “ Budd’s made a strike,’ mused the boy. ‘Well, dern him, he’d do anything fur money.” In a short time the object of his thoughts came prancing round the corner, and motioning Nick to follow, led the way to a neighboring cigar store on the corner of Third ayenue, at the rear of which was a private bar. When they were seated Budd demanded: “What’ll yer suck?” *“A Jeminade,” answered Nick, adding: “Dey don’t keep histe cream here, hey?” “Smoke?” inquired Ketchum, pretending not to hear the last remark. Extreoe shco “Oh, stow it!” snarled the other, “histe cream —by der hookey if yer’ll only histe old Jonas as high, ll] make ita hundred an’ fifty dollars 1” “Yer liberal!” said Extree, who was bursting: to find out where Hermann lived. ‘“Say—Uncla- Tover ain’t round New York how?” «TJ know it!” nodded Budd. “ Unele Tover ia living over in New Jersey, at Hermann’s place!” “New Jersey?” murmured Nick. ‘Den yer orter put on a extree fifty fur der merskeeters !” “‘Oh—pshaw ?” sneered the other. ‘‘ Dereain’t no ’skeeters roun’ Hermann’s.” “Yer don’t say?” ejaculated the newsboy—who- knew better. ‘I want ter know—no merskeeters —den it must be a dreadful unhealthy place, far: ull der healthy spots in Jersey are ram-jam full ob buzzers ! ell, where is Hermann’s?” Budd raised his head as he spoke, then said in. an alarmed tone: ** Sch—scesh! I kin hear Piper’s voice; he’s in. the cigar-store! Come here to-morrow--noon !—. Excuse me!” with which, after paying for the re- freshments, he vanished through the rear door. In another instant, Eps disguised as a fruit- peddler, entered the back room, and, approaching: the bar, said: : “* Berbern sour!” _ OHAPTER XXXI. PIPING A PIPER, Prrer’s disguise was well calculated to deceive: a casual observer, as his beard, about three perts. grown, was dirty and twisted hither and thither, added to which he wore a green patch over his right eye, and was about half-seas over, Rising, Extree silently quitted the walked briskly for a block, then paus gan to loiter. ; After awhile Piper emerged from his shelter, and Nick soon saw that he was on the same er-- rand as Green, viz.: while pretending to:sell fruit, he was really disposing of counterfeit coin. — “Tl nab him wid his hands full!” thought the» newsboy, and in another minute he was on his~ way to a neighboring police-station, where, luck- ily, he encountered an officer who knew him. lace and: and be- < ee eae ¥ * . le dey’ve found me out so often dat I kean’t risk it “Come along,” he excitedly said: “We shal?” :
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EXTREE NICK. ae - «atch der frog on der hop! Come, a pair ov yer, an’ Vil jes plant yer right on ter him! You go ap and engage him in conyersation; buy some of his‘fruit, and we'll approach him on both sides,” said the officer. Extree sauntered along the ayenue, and pres- ' ently overtook Piper, who was in the act of sell- ing two dollars’ worth of nickel to the barman of a lager beer saloon. “ve got plenty more,” whispered the peddler. “‘Take five dollars’ worth;” but the man, notic- ing Nick, only shook his head and retired. ‘What’s der price of yer apples, boss?” said our hero, looking as innocent as a baby. “Five cents,” snuffled Pipér, who now recog- nized the newsboy. “Yer up in yer prices fur dese hard times,” sassed Extree, “Say,” glancing around and see- ing pe ones drawing near, “‘ got any—nickels ter-day?” ¥E How d’yer know I sells ’em?” nervously de- manded the ex-detective; whereupon the boy replied : *©Oh, yer kean’t fool Nick; I’ve been on yer track some time.” Just then the officers collared Piper, and a crowd began to collect. “Leave the old man alone!” shouted one, “Shame!” cried a woman. ‘* What has the old ‘boy done?” ‘ The policemen laughed, and after handeuffing Aber Eroereded to examine the contents of his asket. In acunning little hole, covered with a lid, wero ‘over twenty dollars’ worth of counterfeit flye- cent pieces. «That will do, Piper,” said one of the officers. “‘ It’s no good playing the innocent.” “Run him in!” erfed the crowd, who, now that they knew he was a counterfeiter, showed a ten- dency to assault him-pxj Run him in, durn him! He’s the cuss who hag #circulated all them bad five-cent nickels.” 5 Extree had a few pa ers left, so he shouted : “Yar! here yar—tfull ’count ob de ’rest!” which smartness so tickled the audience that they bought him out. “Do you know the prisoner?” inquired one of his customers, as the officers ran Piper into the Station-house, “Der L know der rooster?” grinned our hero. “Yer bet I do; he’s one ob der crowd who tried ter give me away, I swore I’d bust him, and D’il keep me word !’ : “Are you Extreo Nick, the Newsboy?” demand- aed the man. “Yer’vye said it,” smilingly replied the boy. **T’m der chap dey wanted ter make out as a thief; but three friends ov mine stuck ter me through thick and thin, an’ Jedge Hackett hesaw tro’ der game, an’ ’quitted me. I tell yer he’sa bully man, dat jedge. Ses he ter me; Nick, he Ses; yer leave der court a innercent boy, an’ if I can help yer, he ses, I will. Boss, I’ve bin a fol- lerin’ of dem dertectives an’ scoopin’ ’em in ever since. This makes two of’em.” ; “Well done!” said the customer, handing him a dollar. “Three cheers fur Extree Nick!” shouted a bootblack in the crowd; ‘‘ three cheers for Extree —he’s fixed anudder of der snoozers wot tried ter give him away,” whereupon they gaye him three times three and a tiger. _ ; When they confronted him with Piper, the lat- ter became mad, and swore that as soon as he got free he’d kill Extree. ; > “So it’s you that gaye me away?” he said, turning on Nick. “ “Yea,” calmly answered the newsboy. “ Didn’t T tell yer I’d fix yer? I ain’t one ob dem chaps as says one ting an’ does another. I got ter show der world what a bad lot me enemies were. On yer needn’t trouble tergas so; I’ve heerd dat vafore.” ; : The justice committed the prisoner, and com- plimented Nick upon his smartness, after which the boy withdrew, and going to the uptown office of one of the papers, told the clerk his story, saying: - “Test tele; ea ter yer folks dat Extree’s com- ‘ing down wid der full pp eaares. ‘Right you are,” said the clerk ; and soon Nick *was on the street, where he selected a full stage, ‘then climbed alongside the driver. — They rattled down Broadway at a goed pace, and upon reaching the office of the Journal, he alighted and entered the building, where he was 00> directed to the PEOpe” department, “Got der telegram “bout Piper’s arrest?’ he asked. — fe sakes = “Yes!” answered the editor. ‘Are you Extreo Nick?” ~ Our hero nodded, saying: ~ “Go ahead, mister, I’m der newshboy.” 1d ’re a rightsmart one,” smilingly observed ‘Things must go on anyhow. the gentleman, picking up his pen. ‘‘ Drive ahead, sonny. We'll get out an extra right away!” The newsboy told his story: Keeping the part about Budd to himself; and when he had ended it, said: “Guess dat’s about all.” Y “No,” laughingly, replied the editor, writing a few words on a scrap of paper. ‘ There is some- thing more to be done,” with which he handed him the following note: Mr. , Cashier, Pay Extree Nick for information respecting the arrest of Piper, the ex-detective, five dollars.” . W. K. New York, “ Five dollars!” ejaculated the delighted boy. **Isn’t that enough?” demanded the other, ‘Lots !” eried Extree, and away he rushed to obtain the money. Before quitting the office he asked: **How long will it be afore der extree is out?” ‘Half an hour,” said the clerk; ‘it’s all ready except your news, and some of thatis set. We’re going to rush it through.” Having been handsomely paid, he did not want to sell the information twice, so he tore up Broad- way, never pausing until he reached the news- Sey where sat Josie, looking too sweet for any- thing. “Rah!” he cried; “I’ve fixed me noble Mr. Piper.” **Comein,” she said, opening the door. ‘‘You’re tired out, Extree. I’m so glad you’ve got him. How did you manage it?” 4 But he hung back and laughingly replied : “No, yer don’t; not much, Miss Josie. Yer awful nice; but Nick aint goin’ ter do that trick,” **Oh, I forgot,” she blushingly observed. ‘‘ Ex- tree, when you do come in, you shan’t go out again in a hurry.” “Not if yer dere, Josie,” he saucily replied. “Hello, Nick! what’s up?” demanded Joe, who had just then arrived from home. Extree jerked the peak of his cap over his left eye, and striking an attitude, merrily returned: “Nicked me noble Mr. Piper an’ got a kom- mishin.to mash Uncle Jonas Tover, Tell yer pard, we’re in luck.” Half an hour later the five dollars were inyes- ted in extras, and the newsbody were rushing up town, shouting. “Yar! here yar! extree, full-e-count ob der ’rest ob Piper der -counterfeiter! Smart be- hayor ob Extree Nick, der newsboy !” CHAPTER XXXII. SALLY AND CLO. THE arrest of Piper caused quite a stir at Police Headquarters, and the superintendent swore that if.his offleers did not ferret out the whole caboodle of counterfeiters, he would break all the sergeants, and let them try their hands at patrol duty. “You’re a nice, smart crowd,” he observed to one of the eapiaines “there’s Extree Nick, a newsboy, who has done more, in his spare time, than all your gang put together.” ““T know it,” answeréd the captain, “I’m not to blame for it. You can’t make reliable officers out of political bummers, and old thieyes. You are aware of that. All the while a politician, who joins us to-day, is thought more of than a good man, who has been on the force twenty years, : It isn’t my fault that the police protect criminals. You can’t ex- pect our men to arrest their old friends?” “You'll own that this newsboy—Extree, as they call him -is smart?” said the superintendent, ““why can’t you do what he does?” “When you clear the foree of your political: friends, we will free New York of criminals!” uietly returned the captain, “it isn’t the ;old of- cers who help rascals, like Tover, but your chums.” “Tl haye Piper before me!” growed the lat- ter, and presently the counterfeiter stood in his precence, when he bullied him for a while, then said: ‘* Where’s Hermann live?” “Find out!” snapped the ex-detective. “ You hayen’t got a soft thing in me!” e % Tn vain the official blustered, but the prisoner was firm, saying: ' 2 : “Set yer boy-detective ter work. “Dern him—if nad only lc him aione I shouldn’t be in this te (@.?* * ~ A few evenings after the day of this arrest two colored girls crossed the harbor by the Jersey City ferry-boat. Budd had not kept his appoint- ment, so Nick and Joe were on the war-path, One was a big wench, eee ** Sally,”— this was Extree—and the other a small, saucy: ¥ : ’ $ + i> ooking nigger-child, who answered te the namo roy Ms Oo. > - % I need scarcely sey that the latter was our Joe. Sally wore a green vail, as it hid his blue eyes. Entering the train bound for Hlizabeth, the giris stowed themselyes in a corner and held their tongues, Just as the vehicles started, a frnit-woman, bent and trembling as though with age, got aboard their car, and the yehicle being almost ante she settled herself on the end seat near to the Oys. Joe, who was quite a mimic, grinned and whis- pered to Nick: “Thally, don’ yo’ wan’ som’ apples?” : ““Yeth,” lisped Extree, in true colored-gal style. “T thould like a new-tun pippin, Clo, but yo’ see T’se got no change, chile.” “De lady give yo’ de change!” “T’'ll change a.dollar,” said Green—for it was that worthy. ar Joe picked out four pippins and tendered a dollar bill, receiving sixteen five-cent pieces, which he tied in the corner of his pocket-hand- kerchief, Green dozed, or poeuces to do so, until they arrived at Elizabeth, when he woke and followed the lads out of the car. ; Standing near the depot was a dilapidated wagon, in which sat the same old woman whom Extree had before seen. “Kil” he grinned. ‘Come “long yo’ Clo—we nebber get dere to-night, if yo’ don’ move spry; then crossing the railway track they struck along Newark Avenue. ; When they were alone, Joe said: “Was dat duck Jones?” ; “Yea,” chuckled Nick, “ Josie was right! Yer bet we'll fix dem dis pop; I knowed it was Jones by his hands; der second finger ob his left duke is withered. . Presently the wagon containing the disguised men, passed them. “Where you gals going?” said Green. “‘ Want a ride?” but Sally would not reply, so the rascally pair drove on. - ; “Oh! seratch yer ear an’ trot!” murmured Ex- tree, as the conveyance rolled out of sight. It was somewhat. of a chilly evening in the early fall, so the mosquitoes did not annoy them. Upon arriving at the place where the road branched, they met a.wwoman tending a cow. “Lady,” said Extree, ‘‘haye yo’ seen two ole women drive by dis ya way?” : “Yes!” she solemnly answered, for she was suffering from fever and ague, and didn’t feel good; “what about it?” “We done go an’ gage ourselves to dem !” sim- pered the scamp; ‘dey tell us it wa’ only a sHort Walk.” “Tey lie,’ she angrily returned; ‘it’s three miles from here. I live near their house; there’s aregular crowd of them, and my husband has lost money playing old sledge over at their place, You two gals musn’t go there.” ‘“What do yo’ tink, Sally?” said Joe. “Lady?” said Extree, in a gentle, colored girl’s voice, “we done dar go back to-night; we'll pay yo’ fo’ supper an’ bed?” “Very good,” she replied, “I ain’t proud; I don’t mind being kind to colored folks; I'll only charge you a dollar cach.” | “Bress yo’, lady,” grinned Extree, ‘‘yo’ kno’ beauty only skin deep, lady.” Giving the cow’s tethera tug, she started home- ward, accompanie by the two girls, to whom she related the following story: : ; “A year ago, the old farm-house where them women liye was bought by a New York gentle- man named Tover, who fixed the house and rented it to a German, a real nice man, who couldn’t speak English. My husband and he be- came great friends, and we supplied him with food and owashed for him; his clothes.were all marked ‘H.’ He stayed there working on some patent, and was often visited” by friends, until about a month ago when he left us. Meanwhile an old lady, sister of Mr. Tover, came, and with her a gang of male and female loafers, and since — they arrived here my husband has been drunk all ~ the time.” ; foe Nick winked at his companion, One of the birds had flown. - “T believe that poor H. isin Philadelphy!” con-. — tinued their guide, “Miss Riddle, Mr. Tover’s __ sister, has been there nearly evry day, and my opinion is the poor feller’s the victim 0’ some p ot!” then turning to the girls who were laugh- ng and romping, and at the same time listening — to every. word, and only fooled by way of blind- ing her, she added, “but there, you colored folks — : don’t care about such things, What pay didthey promise you?” a fore e Ate eS __ “Five dollars a ‘week fo’ dé two,” g! ‘Extree. “A-done now, Clo yo's too sas:
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ZO EXTREE NICK. The playful Clo fetched Sally a blow in the ribs and darted across the road, crying ““Yo’, Sal, done no,” while the latter turned to the woman, saying: “Tady, done yo’ say where we came from to yo’ husband?” “My husband’s gone to Philadelphy fur Miss Biddle,” she snapped. ‘He won’t be back to- night. My opinion is they’re engaged in some unlawful business.” After turning to the left and crossing the marshes they, about dusk, came to a miserable shanty, which the woman termed a farm-house, and entering the kitchen, seated themselves. They had to be very careful in handling things as the black composition rubbed off their fingers ; put they were equal tothe emergency and did not betray themselves. The woman asked them for the money they had promised her, and Sally gave her the two dollars, after which she regaled them with rye coffee and hot buseuits; then showing them the way to the barn, observed : nities find lots of sweet hay inthe loft. Good- night.” ‘ tretching themselves out upon the soft bed, they pulled some of it over them, then fellasleep. When they awoke the next ge they re- blacked their faces and hands, and peeping through the windows of the loft, beheld a sight that made them open their eyes and ejaculate: ‘My gracious |” OHAPTER XXXIIT. EXTREE, JOSIH AND JOE ON THE TRAIL. Axsoor an eighth of a mile from the barn was the smoking ruin of what had onco been a farm- house, and erowded into the out-buildings were at least twenty persons, among whom were two women, ; “Der shebang is busted,” murmured Extree. “Dern it, they will slip through our fingers.” “Lie low,” said Joe; “ dey’re coming dis way ;” and presently the newsboys saw the two old crones moving towards the woman’s house. Abandoning the window, thé lads clambered into a rack above the hay-loft and kept quiet. Presently their hostess entered the barn and ealled : “You colored gals?” Clo gave Sally a dig in the ribs. “Come, you lazy critters,” she shouted, “ you’ve had your dollar’s worth outerthat hay.” But they did not answer her, whereupon sho said: “TI guess they’ve gone.” : “Oan we look at the barn?” they heard Jonas inguire. } *Yea,” she replied, “you kin look all you want, but my husband don’t let you no barn with gay peumission , ° “Send your boarders to Newark until you’ve rebuilt your house. Hxcuso me, sir, Pye got some biscuits baking.” In a short time they heard Jonas and Green sirabing the ladder, and presently the former suid: -“ Good big place, hey?” “Yes,” said his companion, sinking upon the hay. ‘I’m tired, Blame that fire. I tell you dragging that heayy machinery out of the burn- ing uilding was no joke,” : “Never mind; we’ve sayed it, anyhow,” urged Jonas, following his example. ‘If we can hire this place, the boys can dose here, and we can cover the plant with hay, and leave it in our own barn. I must build, anyhow, and can get a de- cent place put up for three thousand dollars.” “TY wonder where Piper has got to,” obseryed Green. ‘If he had been here the fire would neyer have occurred. That fool se went to light the cook-stove with kerosene and up it went.” “T don’t eare,” drowsily murmured Tover; “(we saved the machinery. Why, it cost menigh on four thousand dollars.” : “JT don’t think this five-cent business is worth the trouble,” yawned Green. ‘Set the boys to work on a bank, and collar alot of the genuine article.” aw fetes squeezed Joe’s arm, and they exchanged winks. “Say,” demanded Jonas, “ when you go to the city, don’t forget to get a Herald.” _ *You ought to have a newstand out here at ‘Lover-town,” sneered Green, “T svant to see what they have done to Snell!” _ said the old man, gaping. ‘‘ Thatinfernal young skunk, Extree Nick, sold him.” “Extree don’t know me in my disguise 1” said Green. ‘‘ l’ye seen him several times. Nick. onee more pinched Joe, and they winked knowingly at each other, “©All our arms are burnt!” remarked Jonas. “Tf the cops swooped now we couldn’t help our- |’ : e: aries | go, Mister. She aint smart enough to track us,” an- wolves,” — swered Green, then turning over he fell fast asleep. ; When they were quite sure that themen were well off, the gals crept from their hiding-place and descended to the lower floor, leaving Uncle Jonas and Green snoring like pigs. Quitting the stable they walked briskly toward the road, leading across the marshes to Hliza- beth, arriving at the depot in time for the eight o’clock train. “We'll fix ’em this time,” whispered Extree. “T guess the noble Mr. Budd smelt a mice an’ trot. I’dsell him again, but yer see we’ve done der trick widout his information. Yer should hev beheld him git when he heerd me noble Piper's voice.” ’ “Yer won't let him go, will yer, Extree?” de- manded his pard. “Not if Nick knows hisself!” replied our hero. “Tl play me noble Mr. Budd as a kit duz a mouse—den serunch him. Let him go? Not much, Joo, yer an’ I’ye got ter tear up Broad- way some day shoutin’: . Yar, here—yar extree, full e-count ob de capture ob der hull crowd dat tried ter give Extree Nick away; an’ yer bet it won’t be long afore we do it.” “Yer bet it won’t,” excitedly replied Joe. “ We'll scoop dem dis time.” : They were in a quiet corner, So no one over- heard them, asthe passengers taking the girls for colored, gave them a wide berth. “ Jonas don’t know *bout Piper, yet,” said Nick. “He orter get us to supply him wid extrees,” grinned Joe. “ We'll give him all de extree he wants,” chuck- led our hero. - “He little tort Extree Nick was listenin’ ter his smart plans.” “Green said dat yer didn’t know him,” laughed Joe. “ Wasn’t it blamed comical ter’ hear ’em chinning about.yer? Old Jonas called yer a skunk.” “T’ll skunk him afore I get thro’ wid him,” said Extree. “He's a bad lot, an’ ought ter be smilin’ in a cage.” Upon arriving home they found that Mrs. Ru- dolph was absent, she having taken charge of the stand while Josie served the paper route. About ten o’clock the girl came in, and, hearin the boys cleaning up, called: \ “ Fixtree, Joe—all right?” No reply. 4 “ Extree, Joe?” she repeated. “Josie,” merrily observed the latter, “if yer shouts Sally an’ Clo, yer’ll get an answer |” where- upon she pertly exclaimed, “ Sally, Clo, you nig- ger wenches, where are you?” “Keno!” laughed Nick, rights !” When they were nearly white again, they enter- ed the living room, and Josie told them that the Treasury official had sent for them, then inquired as to their success, “We've got ’em dead sure!” answered Extree. “ Yer were right, Josie, der other ole gal was Un- ele Jonas Tover.” Josie laughed heartily about the way in which the woman had served them, but comforted the boys by saying: “Well, it was cheap after all.” : “Tea,” said the newsboys, in a breath, ‘ cheap an’ mean !” «“Pxtree,” she observed, ‘I can run the stand alone—that is for afew days, for mother helps me fold! You and Joe had best clean and go to the Treasury office; I think you’re wanted badly.” “Clean,” indignantly exclaimed the boys. © Ain't we clean?” “Searcely,” she merrily replied. ‘Extree, you’ve got several lines of Miss Sally about your eyes and neck, and as for you, Joe, you look like a fireman !” “Right yer are, Josie,’ laughed Nick, ‘yer head’s allus level.” Towards noon they waited upon the Treasury official, who noted their story down in a book. “Then you think that Hermann is in Philadel- phia?” said the gentleman. “Yes, Boss,” grinned the newsboy;, * guess he’s gone ter hey a look at Independence Hall.” “Boys,” said the official, after thinking a while, ‘ be at the Jersey City Ferry at eight o’clock this evening.” “ ‘Plain clothes?” demanded Nick. “Yes,” nodded the gentleman; “you are not afraid to face the gang, are you?” “ Afraid” said both of them at once; much.” That night, Extree, Josie and Joe were on hand at the appointed time and place. “What's thé gal going to do?” said one of the detectives whom they found waiting for them; ‘‘hadn’t she better go back?” ; *©No, she’s our pard,” said Nick; ‘‘ yer let her s a hull team when she’s “Mhis got us to “Not roused.” . > - is ¢ ss : - f 2 : iS, “Very well,” answered the officer; so Josie made one of the party. t CHAPTER XXXIY. MAKING A BIG HAUL. Jostz had always said that she would be ‘ix atthe death,” and as the detectives knew she was smart, they did not objact to her company. * Hello!” cried Gum, the nawerogent who came into the car just as the train left the depot; ‘on der pipe, Extree?” = «Yer bet,” nodded our hero, “How yer do, Josie?” said Gum; “ why, yer look perfectly splendid, See yer’ve lost yer ole man. “Yes,” sighed the girl, “‘ my father is dead.” «‘ Yer here, too, little Joe!” he eried. ; “Yea, ole gumsucker!” chuckled Joe, who hated to be called little. «Where yer bound ter, Extree?” asked Gum, pretending not to hear Joe’s chaff. ‘Goin’ ter give some ob me friends a ser-prise arty,” winked the newsboy. “Saw dat yer fixed Mr. Piper,” grinned Gum; then turning to Josie, inquired: ‘‘Has Extree been inside der stand yet?” “No,” laughingly replied the giri, “he hasn’t, but it has been through no fault of mine, for we've asked him in often enough.” “ Wxtree,” whispered Gum, bending oyer him, “ der yer know dis car is full of New York cops, in plain clothes. Dere’s four regler dertectives among ’em.”- + : “T conteever,” winked our hero. ‘“ Yer don’t fool Nick.” Upon reaching Newark, they wero joined by a. squad of New Jersey officers, who, like the New York men, were in civilian costume. They crowded into t¢ § ear, and soon Extree, Josie and Joe were the cbnter of obseryation. “So you’re Extree Nick, the newsboy who was given away by. those political bummers, Green and Co.?” inquired a tall, handsome man, who proved to be the captain of the Newark party. “Yea,” politely answered our hero. “Low me ~ ter interduce yer ter Miss Josie Perry an me partner, Joe.” ; “So youre going out to enjoy the capture, Miss,” said the captain. “Yos, sir,” replied Josie. ‘I don’t see why my partners,” smiling at Nick and Joe, “should haye all the fun.” : “But there may be danger; they are a desper- ate gang,” remarked the officer. «“T’m used to desperate folks,” she laughingly returned, adding, “ I don’t seare worth a cent,” When they arrived at Elizabeth, it was as dark as pitch, and it took them some time before they could sev a yard before them. The two squads were provided with wagons, while a couple of carriages awaited the heads of the expedition. Entering their respective vehicles they were driven along Newark Avenue, and, upon reaching the “turn-off,” they halted and alighted. By that time the moon had risen and Extree. could make out the road. i First went Nick and Joo, with Josie between them, then, in two bodies, followed the police. It was past ten when they reached the woman’s house, as they had to go very cautiously, The only light shining was from the window of their late hostess’ chamber. Going down on all fours, Extree crept forward. towards the barn, and listened. It was full of men. - The officers advanced and surrounded tho building, then awaited the signal of attack. “xtree,” said the captain of the New Jersey” force, “ask Miss Josie to knock at the door, and when they hail her, to reply: ‘A lady friend,’ ” Nick went to where he had left Joe, and the girl, and told her, whereupon she immediately advanced and tapped upon the barn door. *Hollo!” cried a gruff voice, ‘ Who’s there?”* «4 lady friend !” replied Josie. ‘Come out,” The man, a notorious burglar, was caught by the snare, and, cautiously opened the barn door, | slipped out, when he was immediately seized and secured; meanwhile the fellows in the barn, wondering who had called for him, and inquisitive as to the lady visitor being pretty, quietly rose, one after the other, and followed like sheep; each. of them being grabbed as they reached the out- side and gagged in order to preyent any alarm being given. 3 ‘When they were all caught, Extree and tie captain entered the building and found tho first floor empty. , “Now for the birds perched aloft,” whispered i : the officer, and beckoning the New York detect-. ives. in, he moved towards the ladder. As he did So, A se went up it like a cat and vanished inthe hay-loft.: ; BSR 2 tase
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He was bound to lead, Up climbed the officers, “ Hist !? went the boy. me a light,” They handed him a bulls-eye lantern, and he cautiously flashed it upon the hay. There slumbered Green, but Jonas Tovor was nowhere to be seen. “Come, git up, Mister,” shouted Extree, giving the man a contemptuous kick, ‘“ Where’s yer derned ole pard?” ‘‘How?” cried the ex-detective, half rising. *“My gracious! how did you come here? You ain’t one of us?” aie “1 2” grinned the newsboy; Where’s me noble Mr. Toyer ?” ‘*Tn Philadelphia,” said the man,,who was only about half awake, and who did not see the offi- cers. ‘‘ Say, who are you, anyhow?” “Me ?” I’m Extfee Nick, der New York news- boy. Der chap yer an’ Tovyer and der crowd tried ter give away, It’s my turn now, I’ve come ter give yer a little serprise party.” In another moment Green, was secured. . “Sold,” he muttered; ‘sold, an’ by a derne newsboy.” “Yea,” chuckled Extree; “yer makes four of me enemies. Yer kin scratch yer ear an’ trot ter Sing Sing;” then, turning to the officers, he said: “Now, go ter der other barn and find der ma- sheens wid which dey makes der nickles.” “How do yer know anything about it ?” snarled Green. “Bless yer, ’ve bin watchin’ yer fur weeks,” laughingly answered Nick. ‘Yer piped me once, ~me noble Green, when I wasn’t a thief, I’ve sworn ter bring yer where yer put me, an’, by thunder, T’ll do it.” : The prisoner was about to reply, when the offi- cers gagged him and conducted him below. “How many have ve~aught ?” demanded Joe, who had left Josie for an inSypnt. “Twenty-three, said Extise. ‘ We've scooped em in dis time.” r “Yer've sold us bad,” said one of the party, a celebrated bond forger. ‘‘ Blamed if that woman- decoy didn’t draw us outlike a lot of rats.” Proceeding to the house, Nick summoned the farmer’s wife, who, thrusting her héad out of the chamber window, snapped: Ts that you, Jack ?” Yes,” whispered the scamp. danger!” “All right,” she answered, while Josie, who was seated on the porch, almost laughed out- right. ; Presently the front door was opened, and the woman appeared in her night-garments, yawning and looking about half awake. ‘ ‘Hello! grinned Extree. ‘Yer didn’t expect us ter night, did yer?” when she awoke com- pletely, and, seizing a big bell began to ring it, screaming’. : t “ Murder! Thieves!” This brought the officers to the spot, and soon the room was full of them. “You wretches !” she snapped.’ “What do you want?” _ ‘A lodging fur dis young lady,” quietly an- swered Nick. ‘‘ Come, be perlite, ma’am. Yer’ve prtaraied us before. I’m one ob der colored ga 2? “They’re asleep. Give “no, thank yer. Come down; CHAPTER XXXY. PLAYING IT ON THE FARMER’S WIFE. Ar first the woman seemed inclined to cut up rough; but upon the captain telling her who he was, she wilted right down and retired with Josie, who was hurriedly instructed to pump her as to the LEIS ieee of Miss Riddle. ; “ Mit oa| WER ELK m, 4 “Yea,” dryly returned Extree. Jonas Troyer.” a | eS Ovo oC §*™@@9H4Uw0wncTcT— > “He lives at a house kept by a German named Rosenberg, she whispered. Now te)l me how. you'll saye my man. He’s coming back by the first train to morrow morning with that horrid fraud, Miss Riddle.” ; ; “ll tell yer,” smilingly replied the newsboy- ‘What time does der first train arrive at Liza- bett, from Philadelphy?” “ At half after eight,” she said. ‘“What time does der first train leave here fur dere?” he asked. “At a quarter to:seven,” she nervously an-, swered, : “We'll go on by dat train, stop at New Bruns- wick, wait in der depot until der Philadelphia train arrives an’ is ready ter start, den get aboard an’ nab me noble Toyer flyin’! I tell yer Nick’ll do der trick.” 5 a “And my man?” said the other. ‘Oh, yer kin git off at Elizabeth aon’ scratch er ears an’ trot!” grinned Extree ; then address- ing Josie, said: “Yer kin laugh, now—sister!” . The girl contrived to smother her merriment, as the woman turned to her, saying: : “You here?. Well, can I trust your brother?’* “With your life,” quietly replied Josie. ‘‘ Ex-. tree never lies,” ; “Very well,” said the poor creature, who, be- tween the fever and ague and:a drunken hus- band, had lately had her hands and heart full: “Come, Miss Perry, s’pose we retire and give your brother a chance to sleep; it’s past two o'clock.” ‘*Good-night, Brother Extree,” said the girl, laughing at him with her eyes. ; : :. - Good-night, Sister Josie,” returned Nick, winking slyly. (‘Der serprise party’s been gran’ success—-con-leever!” a CHAPTER XXXVI " TRAPPING TOYER. WHEN he was once more alone, Extree threw himself on the lounge and chuckled: : “Derm it.: I sed I’d bust dem burglars, an” Tye done it. Now, ef I kin only scoop in me noble Tover, catch: Hermann on der fly, an’ run in mé ole frien’ Budd, I shall hey kept me word | —an’ ain’t anewsboy’s word as good as a king’s?” with which he turned over and presently slum-— red. : At. five o'clock he awoke, fresh as a newly- picked strawberry, and, after drumming upon the door to awaken Josie and the farmer’s wife, proceeded to wash himself at the kitchen sink and that done, he quitted the house and walked — ‘over to the barn, where he found the officers shoring like swine, “Comel? he shotted. ‘Rouse out; der sun is shinin’! Ole Tover's bin an’ cleared away all der masheenery !” “Hey? what?” they eried, springing up anx- iously. ‘Tover been here?” “He might hev bin here an’ scooped in der hull bag ov tricks,” laughingly answered the newsboy.. “Yer blowed yer trombones loud ’nuf ter droun’d any noise. Come, up yer rise—I’ve got-a job fur yer,” with which he briefly told them his plans. . “Good!” said one of the Treasury detectives, “‘Twas thinking of that.” “ Dat’s Why yer slept wid yer mouth an ears so wide open,” laughed Nick. ‘Yer a bully boy— terthink of what'I did. Well, I'll go an’stir der lant-lady up ter bile some ole-rye an’ make soi, Sob her famous dollar biscuits, Yer seo Extree’s bin here afore an’ knows der ropes.’? Whereupon he returned to. the house. The woman was baking, and Josio was fixing the table. . ‘‘Oh, Extree,” she whispered, “did [ do right? Ipiled it on to her last night, until I seared her almost out of her senses.” “Yer a splendid gal,” he admiringly replied, giving her a sly kiss, “ Yer’ve done first-class. Yer a genius, Josie.” In twenty minutes they seated themselves at the table, and were about to fall to, when the newsboy cried: ; its h “Stop! Pony up yer dollars.” ~ P - “How?” said the woman, turning scarlet. “Why, yer charged me a dollar fur nothin’, when I was a'culled pussin’, sassed the scamp, ‘Here’s yer money.” ~ ¢ * Oh, I didn’t know you then,” she said. “Lr ain’t going to charge you anything fpr this.” ss fh, I couldn’t take it free gratis,” grinned Nick: “‘ What is it worth, ma’am?” 7 Buc y a quarter each,” she blushingly an-— swered, eID EFS _ BPxtree paid eee 3 that it made her ee her former overcharge—then pitched - tages 2 9 Po ie
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22 EXTREE NICK. After making a hearty meal they started forthe depot; Nick driving the ladies, and the officers walking, bs Two Jersey policemen were left behind in eharge of the premises. They arrived justin time to catch the Phila- delphia train, and, aftera rapid run reached New Brunswick, when they alighted and entered the refreshment-room. ““Missus,” whispered Nick taking the woman |. aside. ‘If yer husband has any ob dem nickels on him tell him ter melt ’em inter bullets.” “JT will,” she said. ‘You won’t sell me, will you?” : ; *‘Yer ain’t mine ter sell,” he grinned. “If yer was I don’t know whatId do.” “You're so kind,” she said, then, listening, ob- served: ‘‘ Here comes the cars.” The Philadelphia early train came steaming and screaming up, and from their hiding-place in the waiting-room; the watchers saw Tover, in his woman’s dress, sleeping as calmly as though in his arm-chair at home. f ‘All aboard!” eried the conductor. “Now, marm, yer git in der center carriage, an’ Sat ole man inter der next-car,” whispered Nick. ‘ The officers not knowing Tover from Adam, required him to be pointed out to them, so as Stesp hustled across the platform, they whis- pered: G 4 ‘* We'll divide and go to both ends of the train— you, Extree, come forward and let Miss Josie go aft; then we shall nab our man.” ; Nodding hastily, Nick directed his partner what to do, while the woman entered the middle car. Waiting until the train was well under way, the newsboy sprang aboard, and, followed by the ‘Treasury detective, proceeded through the cars, saying: *« Not here, not here, not here.” When they entered the center car they beheld a |}. aight that made them smile, Tover was awake and by his side sat Josie, who, when the woman’s husband quitted him, had taken the vacant place; while the other door was guarded by officers. Unele Jonas was grinning like a baboon, and Jeoring at Josie, saying: “So you don’t mind an old woman, dearie?” “No, nor an old man either,” she aay re- ‘turned, rising and allowing one of the detectives to take her seat; then adding: <‘ Mr. Jonas Tover, I’m proud to haye had a hand in fixing you. My name is Josie Perry. I’m the partner of Extree Nick, the newsboy, who has kept his word and brought you to justice.” } : ‘ I am sorry to record that Uncle Jonas made use of some very ungallant language, but it didn’t last, for the officers gag ed him; “Well,” laughed our hero, who had with sparkling eyes watched Josie’s act, and listened to her speech. “So, we've got der ole duck? Well, yer a brick, Josie!” : “1 {old you I should be of use,” she said. ‘* Ex- tree, you'll not be long before you can come into ue Beysetnds Won’t Mr. om be proud to hear of this.” ¥ The delighted lad nodded assent, then ob- served: ‘ “Vve got ter scoop in two more, an’ den der job is did.”. The conductor requested the other passengers to vacate the car, and, locking the door, left the officers and their partners with the prisoner, At Elizabeth, the farmer’s wife alighted with a tall, lean man, who, upon quitting the train, ran off like a deer. ; . Upon arriving at Newark, Gum, the newsboy, came aboard the cars, shouting: i “Yar, here’s ye’re extree! Full e-count ob der capture ob two hundred thieves, burglars, an’ coiners in der wilds ob New Jersey!” When Ex- tree rapped to him to ask the conductor-to admit him, and, when Gum was inside, said: ‘Why don’t yer say a thousand, yer big blower?” ; ; *““Wot.yer bin locked in dis keer fur?” demand- ed Gum. __ Well, yor see,” smilingly observed Nick, hand- ing Josie a paper, ‘‘ we’ye. got. der hoss skunk ob a crowd, ole uncle—I mean Aunty Riddle lover.” » - ; B . “Yer don’t say!” ejaculated Gum, “ Where’s der dear ole peanut?” ; ‘ *Dere,” grinned Nick, pointing to the prisoner, “Don’t yer get mashed on her, Gum—she’s en- gaged—to der perlice.” . ote i “You're a regular detective,” admiringly ob- - gerved the news-agent. : . “TY said Yd do. der tricky’ winked Extree, glancing at his partner. ‘ What is it, Josie?” Oh!” cried the Sete girl, ‘here’s three. columns of it; Joe told them the story splen- _ mous as ‘Extree Nick, the ewsboy,’ has shown didly. - It says tho lad Rewoomth, who is now fa-. more ability than any detective on the police force.” - ° Here she paused and blushed, so Nick took the paper from ‘her, and finished the sentence, which ran: . «And the newsgirl, Josie, who is some day to be Mrs. Extree, has proved herself worthy of a brave; good husband.” Old over, who had heard this, groaned CHAPTER XXXVII. HUNTING HERMANN. “THarT will do, Extree,” pleaded the blushing irl; so Nick, who loved Josie too well to annoy Hes said to Gum: ‘We won't keep yer, old chum. Yer orter sell dem papers afore we arrives, fur deyll put another extree out right away.” “Mhat’s so,” cried Gum. ‘Well, I shall look | out fur der e-deetion wid der news ob der eonvic- tion ob Miss Tover,” glancing at Jonas. “Yer bet I'll make der train echo when I shouts der werdict dat der judge passes on der crowd. So- long, Josie! So-long, Extree, ole man!” adding in an undertone to the latter: “ Yer’ll arx me to der wedding, hey?” ; “Oh! serateh yer ear an’ trot,” smilingly re- plied Nick. « In due time they arrived in New York, and Jo- nas was committed to the Tombs, Josie,” said Extree, “you go down ter der newspaper Office, und tell *em der story. Dey’ll treat yerlikealady. Imust go an’ see der Treas- uryman, fur I wanter start for Philadelphia.” ‘Very woll,” she replied, and away they went. The newsboy found the official elated with his success, and, after telling him of the capture of Jonas, Extree said: “Now, if L kin catch Hermann an’ get him ter come without a fuss, der job is did. He’s a small German an’ I guess likin fix him.” ~~ Giving Nick funds anda letter to the Chief of the Germantown police, the gentleman observed: “Now, my boy, if you can secure Hermann we can go ahead and try the-prisoners, Have you any idea where he is?” “T yeeon I kin find out,” said Bxtree. ‘ Her- mann first, an’ den me noble Mr. Budd. © He ran home, changed his undergarments and brushed up, then, leaving word for Joe, started for Philadelphia, arriving there about five Pp. a. After taking a bite of food, he rode out to Ger- mantown, and entering u Dutch drug-store, asked to see the directory. j “JT want to find a Mr. Rosenberg, who keeps boarders,” he said. ‘‘I’ll take a sody an’ syrup, please,” sin Vf ‘Rosenberg, vot keeps boarders?” mused the druggist; thinking aloud. ‘‘ Dereis only von dat keeps a boarder, vot I know—und his name is Frantz—he lives up dish street-—number vorty- nine—mita vite marble stoopund a brass knocker —und hish card on der door mit—Rosenberg, Professor ov Magic—ov it. A manilive dere—dey call him Hermann.” : : ' Thank yer,” said Nick, secrotly delighted, “T don’t think dat’s der feller I want. Yer sody’s hunk, boss.” *Hermann’s a button-maker,” continuod the man. ‘‘ Yes, mine sody’s goot, I makes him mine- self.” 5 sad “Tike Hermann does his button money,” thought Extree, draining the sour stuff, then ad- dressing the druggist, asked: “Ts Hermann a tall feller wid a boss eye?” “No,” returned the other, ‘he’s a small man, very quiet. Hetousant know much English. He makes buttons vor a liffing.” Nick paid for his drink and quitted the store, whistling, ‘‘ Hold the Fort;” then, turning to the left, walked up the street, pausing*before forty- nine, a three-story brick house. . Knocking at the door, he inquired ofa girl who answered it: : “Mr. Hermann widin?” ’ “Ya,” she replied, “he’s sick; ay all day yes- enay und last night, und: drunk too much whisky.” t “Mighty foolish ay him,” grinned Nick, “Tl call agin,” with which he walked away and con- tinued his whistling. Proceeding to Police Headquarters, Extree pre- sented his letter, in which was inclosed a warrant of arrest, issued by the New York authorities. ‘So you are the celebrated newsboy detective, Extree Nick; hey?” inquired the superintendent. «Yes, boss,” answered our hero, ‘I’m der only enuine, original Extree. I’m der boy dat: fixed { iss: Tover?* sete ‘ «What can I do for you?” asked the other. “Send an officer ter bag Hermann,” quietly re- plied our boy. 43 pa reas Satie «But we cannot find him,” said the chief. — ra Aa ee “Tt took Nick ter do dat trick,” chuckled Ex- ree. : : : “Do you know where he is?” demanded the of- ficial. “Yer bet I do,” grinned the lad. “I smolled him out.” . : “How?” sternly demanded the gentleman. «J went where der limburger kase and schweit- zer Was der strongest, av cqurse,” sassed the news- boy. “Yer don’t tink I looked fur him among der perleece, do yer, boss?” «Are you giving me. cheek?” snapped the other. a ‘Bless yer, no, boss,” he smilingly retorted, “T’m called der perlitest newsboy in Nos York.” ‘““Humph!” snorted the man, striking a bell that'stood upon his desk, and summoning an at- tendant. ; “Sor!” said the latter, saluting. “Send an officer with @ warrant to arrest one Hermann, who is wanted in New York. This boy will show the way.” , 2 i “Good-evening, boss,” cheerfully observed Ex- ree. **Go to—blazes!” snarled the official. you, you’ve more confidence than a man,” This tickled Nick, who wanted to make the superintendent mad. : t isn't every newsboy who has an opportunity es sass a chief of police, and Extree enjoyed the un. ; They detailed a solid-looking, six-foot officer #0 accompany him; whereupon Nick said: “Come along, little un. L won’t hurt yer!” but the man didn’t see the joke, and merely replied: « Ja—I’m coom in.” | : ‘Did yer ever drink lager?” asked Extreo, as they marched for the street car. : Ja!” said the officer, brightening up. “‘Ilike lager, it ish gooood!” thinking that the boy was going to treat. ite ‘“T thought so,” ci mly returned Nick, looking him straight in thee; «7 “Yer awful puffed out in der stummick! 1 tort it was from swillin’ beer.” “ Mein Gott!” groaned the man, ‘dese Ameri- ean poys has sheek,” then subsided. Upon reaching number forty-nine, the lad paused and rang the bell, and, when the girl ap- peared, said: Ne ‘ “Don’t yer be frightened, siss. Dis yer’s acop comé ter ’rest Mr. Hermann. Which is his room?” “ Owh!” she eried, falling back in a fainting fit, seeing which the policeman ruefully scratched his head. Me “Come, me noble,” urged Nick; “she’s all 0. K; leave her alone. She’s only scared wid seein’ yer great, ugly face.” ‘ ; Then, mounting the stairs, he entered a parlor and began to look around him. : The policeman followed, Sayan “Dish ish ein gooood German hous,” “Yer bet it is,’ whispered Extree. yer smell der cookin’?” : They walked through into an extension-parlor; but 10 one was to be seen. “Up yer come, Schneider,” said Nick. ‘ Yer bet he’s ou der top floor. Now fur a glimpse ay der button-maker.” Mounting the stairs, they proceeded to exam- ine the sleeping-rooms, then finding them empty, ascended to the top floor, the front apartment of which was unfurnished, “Der feller is in der back lodgin’,” whispered Extree, trying the door, which proved to be lock- ed on the inside. : “ Say, jos’ sling a little Dutch at him,” ™he policeman whanged at the panels with his fist, erying: ty is «Hermann! Hermann! Kom!” (eome,) ' No reply. ‘ ey ‘Hermann !” thundered the ponderous Dutch- man, giving the door another rousing blow, **Kom, kom!” cee Still no answer, a : “Blame it,” said the newsboy. “I hope he ain’t dead.” oN “Dern Kean’t - CHAPTER XXXVI. BAGGING THE BUTTON-MAKER. THE police officer raked his head with his fin- goers, aS much as to say: “What's to be done now?” Bey “ Bust in der door,” suggested Extree; ‘jes yer lean-yer lager beer bar’l agin it, mister, an’ der job is did. _ Con-leever?” ; : ‘ : “Vot?” demanded the cop, gehts “Oh, seratch yer. ear an’ trot,” laughed the boy; then, motioning him aside, cried: ‘ Niek’IL do der trick;” and raising his right kno laced it against a panel and burst the orse-rider does the paper of a hoop. —
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~ats EXTREE NICK. es Entering the room, they lighted the gas, and peheld a small, wiry-looking man, who was Stretched out upon the bed. ‘ “ Dead?” gasped Nick. « Tead trunk!” solemnly returned the German officer. ‘‘ Ja, he’s full;” with which he sighed, as much as to say, “Ah, how Lenvy him!” “Pick him up,” said Extree. ‘‘Yer big an’ ugly enough ter be able ter truck him to der station-house.” “Nein,” answered the man. ‘He too heavy! I vake him op, an’ he valk;? whereupon he grabbed the intoxicated coiner by the schuller, and bellowed, ‘‘ Kom, Hermann, kom, kom, kom! — ; _ After shaking him like a bottle of medicine, until he frothed at the mouth, the cop said: “He too trunk;” hearing which, the newsboy remarked : * Oh, yer a bully boy ter rouse a dead-tight. Here, le’ me take a han’? Ill try Josie’s patent— conteever.” _ Pi In a bowl by the bedside was a large lump of ice, which Extree laid in’a towel and mashed, then preparing some arctic-cold water, he wetted the cloth and slapped it over Hermann’s head, neck and chest. “*You yet der bed,” observed the policeman. “Wet your grandmother’s tom-cat!” grinned Nick, taking some of the pounded ice and plac- ing it on the drunken man’s head. : “ Here, lift him up; I want ter slam some ob dis yer cure: down his back.” The officér obeyed, and Extree doxterously: slipped a cold towel down Hermann’s spine; whereupon-the prisoner said, in a faint, muddled ‘tone: - , ** Was ist es ?” (what is it?) "4 nice little corpse-rouser,” grinned Nick, - sprinkling the now fast reviving coiner. ‘‘ How er yas? Donner und»hlitzen! Pretzels! Lager eer und* kase! eRe Seratch’ yer ? ear an’ trot. Dern yer)/i kin speak yer lang- vage.” “Was!” ejaculated the man, sitting bolt up- tight. ; “Was ist es?” *“Now yer licks mo,” said Extree, shaking his head. ‘*My German don’t run ter dat,” and, ‘urning to the policeman, laughingly said: “Say, Schneider, jerk a little more Dutch?” The cop seated himself and interrogated the’ drenched man, Nick listening and watching like 4 terrier, murmuring: ; “Knocks me, dat yer German chinning does. Dere’s too mach rashen naschen in it fur Extreo, Der feller must hey bin tight dat fust talked it.” ‘The men chatted on and on, like two old friends, until Nick put in his word, inquiring what their conference was about. The officer looked at his prisoner, observing: “Ho didn’t do nottings.” “T know,” winked the newsboy, ‘“‘he’s der innercent one, he is.” { - “He say,” continued the cop, ‘ he thought dat he making buttons!” Extree chuckled, then said, in a dry tone: “Vell make buttons enough when he gets afore Jedge Racket. Pshaw! yer don’t foel Nick wid dat cuffer—conteever.” _ ES. “Vot you mean?” demanded the policeman. “Oh, bring along der prisoner, it’s getting lato,” sassed Nick. ‘‘ Yer ain’t at_aspellin” bee— conteever;? then addressing Hermann, said: “Now, me noble button-maker, up yer git; yer wanted in Now York.” ¢ é : The coiner said something to the officer, who solemnly observed to Extree: “But he says he tousant vant to go, and he tousant have done nottings.” Sat Oh, yer jes’ scratch yer ear an’ trot him outer dis!” snapped the newsboy, who was. getting riled. ‘*One would tink yer was der prisoner’s lawyer instead oy a Germantown cop. Yer kean’t fool Nick !” ‘ The man said something to Hermann, who aprang from the bed and made a dive for the door, but Extree was.too quick for him and had him as a black-and-tan does a rat. * * “Oh, oh!” sereamed the coiner; while the cop looked on as much as to say, “ fight it out—it’s none of my affair.” S Tripping up his prisoner, the lad closed the: door, and addressing the officer, said : ; “You big, fat, cow-headed, beer-soaked loafer yous if yer don’t pul der bracelets on dat snoozer, ‘Il go fur yer next.” Sy : “Vot,” growled the man. ‘Don’t you see dat Hermann hasn’t done notting? He tell me, so ’ help him sacred vord, he tink he vos making’ buttons. Him innocent.” | “Oh, loo. thin J? sneered Extree. - “Yor kean’t fool Nick! See here, if yer don’t waltz him right |: in Ill have yer sent up fur helpin’ a thief who has robbed poor folks. I mean it, Mister Man.” t ry The truth was, Hermann was & friend of the officer, who, though thick-skulled, was. honest enough, You cannot expect a man, who: has only been inthe States a year, to know much about our laws, and the cop, thinking that his countryman was the victim of a conspiracy, mature ly objected to assist in prosecuting him. ‘Let him change his clothes,” he observed to Nick. ‘‘ You see he come out all right. He von very goot man, He go to school mit me in Ger- many, He no thief. He say von man name Tover tell him to make buttons fur der Fiith Regiment of infantry. He not know dat he make nickel five cents.” . “If he didn’t he ain’t got no more sense dan yer hev!” grinned Extree, watching the man dress in dry garments. ‘Eider you must be a BIO ov fools, or yer take Nick fur one.” The policeman shrugged his shoulder, Reve i “Vell, you see, Hermann get off. He tink he was making buttons.” “Why didn’t he put der shanks on dem?” sneered the newshboy, keeping a bright eye on Hermann, “Vell, you see,” solemnly replied the cop, ‘der man over say he do dot at his New York factory. Hermann been blayed on by dot Tover, He no know he do anything wrong.” Hermann had been sent out of the way to Phil-_, adelphia, and the pariellaished buttons forward- ed to him to polish and electro-nickel. Filling a good-sized basket with the stuff and tools, the newsboy said: j “Now, Mr. Officer, yer carry dat and I’ll tend ter yer ole school-feller,der hutton-maker,” Then, ‘taking Hermann’s hand, he conducted him down- stairs, the copper following, lugging along the heavy load. 7 On. reaching the police-station the coiner was consigned to a cell, and Extree was told that the man. would be duly sent on to New York. By that time it was quite late, finding which, the lad telegraphed: ‘* Got Hermann,” to Josie; then went to a hotel and rested for.the night. : He wanted rest badly, so he slept like a young bear. In the morning hestarted for New York, reach- ing his lodgings about noon, a gele was there, evidently awaiting his ar- rival. Y ee Noticing that she seemed to be somewhat tated, he saluted her, saying: “Nothing wrong, is there, Josie?” agi- ——— CHAPTER XXXIX, ‘On, Extree,” said the girl, ‘I searcely know whether to laugh or ery; Mr. Rudolph said that something would come of it.” “Laugh, honey,” he replied, stealing his arm about her waist. ‘‘Yer was made fur dat. What der yer refer ter?” « You remeriber the old marble-masher,” she began, her eyes twinkling as she spoke. : “Shall I ever furget the blamed old gewse?” he grinned. -‘‘ Well, what of him—has he wrote yer again?” 2 ‘Ho’s dead!” she returned. , : “ Oh, yerdon’t fool Nick wid dat yarn,” langhed hor lover. ‘* I’ve bin dere, Josie,” “Tt’s a fact,’ she quietly observed, ‘! and what 4s more, he has left me all his money, provided,” here she glanced slyly at him, “that I keep single until I’m twenty-one,” pully fur de ole man!” cried Nick, ‘ We kin wari!” ¢ : “We, Mr. Impudénee?”” she teased, adding, “but that ain’t all; he not. only wishes’ me to do this, but Tam not to have the fortune if I marry Extree Nick, the newsboy.” ; : “Dern his old picture!” muttered our hero; then looking quietly up at her, said: ‘ Well, Josie, what did yer tell him?” “He’s dead!” she gravely answered. * If he’d been alive I—well, what do you think I would have told him, Extree?”_ Here she Jooked merrily at him. “Merseratch his ear and trot,” he cried, giving her a hearty kiss. ‘*Bless yer, Josie; 1 know yer true grit. Yerlove me better den all der money in der world.” _ ‘“You’re cool,” she teased. ‘ Well, you haven’t heard ali, Mr. Sass. IfT refuse his offer he’s left me a tombstone, ora monument, or whatever you eallit. I’m to take my pick, and this: morning his brother and sisters brought a whole crowd of children to our news-stand and cried and car- ried on, saying, ‘Oh, don’t take our rights from us, darlin’ Miss Josie. Have de monny-mint, allanna?’ so told them that I wouldn’t rob them, as I knew of a young man who was saving up a fortune for me.” z i * Dat’s: Extree,” whispered our hero, giving her a hearty kiss, . AER | ** Perhaps it is,”she laughingly replied. ‘ Well, Z mee 5 se, at te~ an a et ae ae | rk you bad boy, I informed them that I wouldn’t touch a cent of the old man’s money, whereupon they all went down on their Knees on the sidb- walk, and blessed me, until Joe came up, when I siipped away round here to tell you. Oh, it was too touching to hear them say: ‘Take de monu- ment, darlin’, take it, an’ yer road on earth will be aisy, an’ yer bid in Heaven wan of roses.’ ” Extree smiled, saying: e “T’m awful glad yer took der monny-mint, Josie ; will do to go over yer poor father.” Then, after thinking awhile, he observed : ‘ S’pose we boy a family plot, and move our dead,” ; osie nodded; it was what she had get her heart on. : The old-marble-masher’s money was in her eyes nothing to Extree’s love, and. they laughed he think that he had imagined he could purt em, : ; "80 eae ‘caught Hermann?” she said. “TI received your telegram !” “Yeal” he chuckled. ‘I’ve bagged der but- to-nmaker, He says dat he thought he was makin’ buttons for der Fifth Regiment ov der United States Hoss Marines.” : “Too thin!” laughed the girl. ‘The other prisoners are all wanted on various old charges, and are now safein Albany. The Herald says that you have been the means of breaking up the refuge of the most formidable pane of scoundrels that ever operated in New York.” : “Dat’s mighty han’som’ ov der Herald,’’ he merrily answered. : ‘One good turn deserves another. We'll give dem our ad-wertizin’.” They quitted the house together and walked up Broadway to the news-stand, where they found Joe and Mrs, Perry. : E “ Hello, parc,” cried Nick, and soon the boys were shaking hands, after which our hero said to. the old lady: ‘‘ How is der fruit biz, mother?” : “T’m doing well,” she said. ‘* Did Josie tell ye that she’d refused a fortune?” “Vou,” winked Nick. “But don’tryou worry, mother, we kin get along widout der ole fraud’s money; an’ he’s left us a marble monnymint; yer must tink’ov dat.” re Mrs. Perry appeared somewhat comforted by this, and returned quite cheerfully to. her fruit-_ stand, muttering: ¢ i “Sure an’ I belave Josie was right after all. | He's a brave, bowld boy, is Extree.” That afternoon Nick served the papers on the up-town route, and, as he was walking home- ward, espied a red-headed and bearded young man who was endeavoring to trap some young- sters into’cominitting a theft, ¢ Taking a ten-cent scrip the fellow tucked it loosely into his change pocket and sauntered along the street to where some young newsboys were playing marbles. \ The stamp fluttered about so plainly that the lads saw it at a glance, and one of them said, by~ way of a joke: 2 ae “ He's got more money den he kin take care ov. ‘Wipe his eye oy it fur a lark,” suggested another, j Extreo moved quietly forward. “Bet yer a cent yer kean’t take it widout ho knows it,” cried a third. “Bot, yer Til take’ it an’ shoye it back right under his derned nose,” said a fourth, “Tm no thief, but I’m up ter a blessed lark like dis.” The red-haired young man heard all that, they | said, but he lingéred round the speaker until the latter backed, and, yilacing his hand behina him, whipped off the stamp; then, exhibiting it to his companions, was about to return it, when his tempter grabbed him and shouted: «Police! Police!” Extree sprang forward, and wrenching the boy from his grasp, addressed the fellow, saying: “Yer wretch, I saw yer bait dat trap.” The boys scooted, and the man neryously ob- served ; , : : “T—I—I was only joking.” At the sound of his voice, Nick took at him, then quietly remarked: : ““Mo noble Budd, hey? So it’s you, you thun- doring sneak ;” after which, grabbing at the red beard and wig, he tore them off the fellow’s face. Sure enough, it was Budd Ketehum. “Och,” howled the cur, beginning to cry child, ‘‘I was only foolin’. LLe’me go.” : “Not much I won't,” chuckled Nick, “ menoble. Mr. Budd. I’ve hed me eya on yer all der time Now,” tearing the fellow’s suspenders out and lashing his hands behind his Sa | “yer kean’t seratch yer ear, but yer can trot a’ agood look ; like a “ ong ‘wid der — boy yer tried ter give away! Con-teever.” “But my creature. pants will slip down,” whined the “Hold ’em up behind,” grinned$Extree} “yer _ kean’t run fur as I’ve fixed yer;” then nodding” wae ve
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24 EXTREE NICK. x sod atthe newsboys, who had gained courage and returned, said: ‘‘Yer see, chaps, Nick has done der trick; dis feller tried ter give yeraway as he did me, only he didn’t play der stamp game on Extree |” «Rah |” shouted the little fellows, ‘‘ bully fur yer, Nick!” : Extree walked Budd res vlasser step of the way down town tothe City Hall, and by the time he reached the building he had about three hun- dred newsboys following him, shouting: "Rah! He’s got Budd Ketchum.” ‘“Yoa,” winked our hero, as he handed over his prisoner, “me noble Budd makes up der tally.” CHAPTER: XL, BEFORE THE JUDGE. Ir was acold December day when Jonas Tover, Henry Green, James Piper, Harvey Snell, Fritz Hermann and Buddington Ketchum. were placed at the bar of justice, charged by the Government of the United States with the crime of making and uttering spurious money, to wit, five-cent pieces. By direction of the recorder, four hundred newsboys were admitted to the court-room, after whieh every vacant spot was crowded with ladies, Bt The case created the most intense interest, and reporters came from other cities in order to ob- tain early news with regard to the trial. ‘Tover had manufactured over Half a million dollars worth of the spurious nickels, and had flooded the country with the stuff. : About ten o’clock the judge took his seat and the trial began with an address by ex-Judge Smart, who was the leading counsel forthe Goy- ernment, . In a concise speech he sketched the. career of the prisoners, and informed the court that he had | witnesses who would testify to their guilt; then seated himself, upon which a noted criminal law- yer, who was retained for the defense, rose and said that his clients were persecuted, and were as innocent as unborn. babes. After this they pleaded ‘* Not guilty.”. When the buzz and excitement had died away, the usher ¢alled the first witness. . “Nicodemus Neweome, alias Extree Nick,” and after taking the oath, Extree seated himself in the chair. . Josie was at the counsel-table dressed like a lady, and beside her sat Jov, grinning from ear to ear, while, in the body of the court, the up- turned faces and open mouths of the newsboys. were a sight to see. Casting a glance at the prisoners, our hero winked at Josie, as much as to say:. _“ Fixed ’em, hey?” thea prepared to give his evidence. ws « All that day and the next, and far into the third afternoon, Extree sat and replied to the questions put to him, by the counsel and recorder, and, lit- tle by little, like the piles of counterfeit five-cent ieces ranged from time to time upon the table, fe heaped the evidence before them, telling his story as a person who knows that he is relating the truth. ; The proofs of the evidence, which he had care- fully marked, were handed round and examined, and his wonderful skill as a detective brought out. + ae When he quitted the stand a murmur of ap- ‘plause arose from thé spectators. Sadie Piper’s change for a quarter, marked “No. 1,” the one cent, dropped by Budd, marked “T, P.,” the roll of flve-eent pieces given him by the murderer Bill, marked.“ B.,”’ the change from the rag-and-bone man, the other marked coins, and all the machinery arrayed in roof of his truthfulness, the prisoners grinding heir teeth with rage to think that they had heen outwitted by a newsboy. : ; Joe next gave his evidence, and came off with | flying colors; then Josie was called, and she told all that she knew, amusing the court with her eee reply to the prisoner’s counsel, who asked er: Sarat “Why did you wish to be present at the cap- ture of Mr. Tover?” : To which she said : “Because he had injured and insulted my artner, Extree Nick! Wasn’t that reason enough? if we are only newws-sellers we are proud, and wowt be trampled.on!” Hearing this, the newshoys present gave three eheers; after which the usher cried :. - Order in the court!” ; - “You seem to think a good deal of your part- ner,” bullied the counsel, who had asked her sev- eral impudent questions. sie L “Its more than Ido of you!” she smilingly retorted. ‘‘ Extreeis worth a dozen old stupids like yourself,” Adding quietly: “Any more » questions toask me?” ay Seite uarter’s, “No,” said the lawyer; ‘I don’t think much of your evidence.” “You needmt worry yourself,” she quickly re- plied, for her dander was up over his reference to Nick. ‘‘You’re no judge, and I didn’t ask for your opinion.” Everybody in thé court roared at this, and the lawyer was about to say something bitter, when the judge enjoined silence. “‘ ixtree,” whispered the girl, as she took her place by his side, “I could nothelp getting mad.” “Yer did splendidly!” he proudly whispered. ‘‘T tell yer der lawyer feels like a parbiled lob- ster.” od The trial lasted over a fortnight, and a great number of witnesses were called; among them being Gum and his brother, the popcorn man, and the Treasury detective. : Onthe morning of the eighteenth day, Extree, Josie, Joe, Mr. Tom McNally, Mrs. Rudolph, and Mrs. Perry were accommodated with seats at the table, and Recorder Rackett began his sum- ming up by saying: ; ‘ ““Itis seldom that I have to draw the attention of | ajury to such a complete case as this, and one that |. so greatly affects the interests of poor people, The prisoners at the bar have for years been engaged in manufacturing and issuing Spurious money of a low denomination, and their victims faye uniformly been those who most use small Eemee poor, who live by the sweat of their row. “over, the chief, has purchased and fitted machinery for coining, and the evidence against him is as clearas day. “Piper, Snell and Green, all of them formerly olitical members of our much-abused police ‘orce—a service they successfully-used as a cover for their rascality—stand convicted without a|_ shadow of doubt. “Hermann, according to the evidence, is a smart, clever workman, who'has been employed ny Tover to manufacture shankless buttons for the mited States Army. It is for you to decide whether this is true, He certainly has been im- posed upon, and his record in Germany is a good one, ; “Ketchum the meanest of the gang, deserves little comment, as he has confessed to former convictions in another State of the Union. “ Before closing my summing up, I must draw your attention to the heroic conduct of the chief witness, Nicodemus Neweome, otherwise Extree Nick, and of his partners, Josie Perry and Joseph Rudolph. “A year ago the prisoners at the bar conspired to defame and ruin the first-named of the three, ‘but through the’ kindness of their friend, Mr. MeNally, the plans of Tover and his associates were marred, and their shameful plot revealed, “Mark the result! The poor lad—sensitive of his honor as any king—vowed to bring his tra- ducers to justice. It was not sufficient for this newsboy that, I should.tell him he was innocent— he felt that che verdict of the jury had only half cleared him in the eyes of the world—so he bravely set to work, and, one by one, has. caged lis traducers, bringing them before his country- men to decide as to the measure of their erime. Gentlemen of the jury, how say you, guilty or not | d guilty?” ; As he ended, the newsboys in the body of the court breathed again, aud Extree turned his sparkling eyes upon his friends, saying: ‘TI feel awful good! Conteever ?” The jury retired, in order to deliberate, and the newsboys began to discuss the judge’s charge. “He’s a splendid man,” said one. “If a feller is innocent he won’t let him be hurt; but, if he | did it, der jedge gives it him red hot! He spoke up fur Extree, didn’t he? Say-—” but further remarks were cut short by the usher crying: “Silence in the court !” “Extree,”? whispered Josie, ‘here they come.” CHAPTER XLI. EXTRER’S HOUR OF TRIUMPH. Tu jury. entered in single file, and, when they had taken their seats, the usher once more cried :. “Silence in the court.” f Extree glanced at the prisoners, who scowled savagely back at him. ‘ Judge Rackett waited until a dead. silence among the audience, then, addressing the jury, demanded : ‘ “How say you, gentlemen? Guilty or not guilty?” Your honor,” answered the foreman, ‘we find as follows: Jonas Tover, guilty on all the counts of the indictment. James Piper, guilty of uttering counterfeit coin. Haryey Snell, guilty of uttering counterfeit coin. Henry Green, guilty | of uttering counterfeit coin. Fritz Hermann, guilty of manufacturing counterfeit coin, but we as ee to merey, as he appears to have - been the victim of Tover. Buddington Ketchum, guilty of aiding Tover in the business of uttering counterfeit coin.” i ‘ When he had thus delivered himself, the newsboys, who had watched his face and moved their lips as he had done, turned their earnest gaze upon the recorder, who, addressing the pris- oners, inquired if they had anything to say, and why sentence should not be pronounced upon them, when they all began talking ut once, where- upon he stayed them, observing: “One atatime. Jonas Tover.” «‘Your honor,” began the old raseal, “I am too indignant to find words with which to express myself. It kills me to think that I have been given away by a derned newsboy like that cub, Hx- - tree Nick. New York has come to something when the detectives are set aside, and boys, dressed up as gals, employed to hunt folks up- I demand a fair trial. It’s a conspiracy against me because I was a newws-stand owner.” The judge waited patiently until the coiner had spoken, then quietly said: “Harvey Snell.” - “Tagree with Jonas Toyer,” sullenly replied. the man. “It’s an infernal plot; a trap laid by Extree Nick.” j - “Henry Green,” calmly nodded the judge. “Tt’s all alittle game of the detectives,” growled the fellow. ‘‘ They never would have caught us but for that cursed newsboy.” “James Piper,” said the unmoved recorder. “Your honor,” whined the man, “I’m as inno- cent asa child, That boy, Extree Nick, has lied right through the piece.” ete t “ritz Hermann,” ejaculated the, judge, but Fritz only shook in his pants, and murmured: “Me make but-tons.’ a This made the spectators grin, while Josie whispered to Extree: “Tm serry for that man.” ts “So am 1,” replied Mek. ‘Listen, dor jedge: is speaking ter me noble, Budd.” « Buddington Ketchum,” sternly inquired the recorder, ‘‘ what haye you to say why sentence -should not be passed on you?” when the. sneak= thief foamed at the mouth and fell down in the dock; as he did so, Joe rose, and, addressing the judge, said: : j “Yer honor, Budd ain't in no jit; I saw him ut a bit of soap inter his mouth an’? chaw it!” earing whicn one of the officers half choked the dodger until his jaws gaped, when out dropped a piece of prison soap. f This caused the newsboys to laugh, whereupon ~ the judge bade the usher to call the court to or- der, then proceeded to pass sentence. Every eye was turned towards him, and you might have heard a fly buzz. ; ‘“Jonas Tover,” began the recorder, ‘ I have to sentence you to imprisonment for twenty years. Your crimes have brought their just reward ;’” then, speaking to the ex-detectives collectively, he said: ‘‘ Harvey Snell, Henry Green and James Piper, I sentence each of you to ten years im pris- onment, Iam sorry that I cannot award you a longer term.” Extree never moved a muscle; he was not re- vengeful, and merely felt that he had done his uty. Ruddington Ketchum,” said the recorder, looking severely at the sneak thief, “I sentence you to five years’ imprisonment. When you have served your term in Sing Sug you will be deliy- ered to the authorities of the State of Pennsylva- nia, who will imprison you for the unexpired time of your sentence—you being an escaped convict.” 7 Joe glanced meaningly at Extree, who mur- mured : hi Jus’ tink ob dat; an’ I once made a chum oy him. “Now,” gravely continued the judge, regard- ing the affrighted German, who was shaking like afiag in a stiff breeze, “I come to you, Fritz Hermann.” “Der innercent button-maker,” breathed Nick to Josie, while the recorder went on: is “You have had a fair trial and been found guilty ; but taking into consideration your former good characterand your generally innocent bear- ing, also your ignorance of the American lan- guage, I feel inclined to pass a light sentence upon you. That you believed you were engaged in the manufacture of shankless buttons appears to be almost incredible; yet you have displayed so much sympathy in all your actions that I merely sentence you to one year’s imprisonment. You haye had a very narrow escape. When you - uit the prison return to your native land.” hen the sentence was translated to the affright- ed man, he exclaimed in his own language: ing buttons.” — F : : “One moment,” calmly observed the judge, glancing at Extree, Josie and Joe. ‘In closing it “Thank Heayen! I did believe that I was mak-
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iv EXTREE NICK. -** 233° 28 this case I must express my admiration of the courage, perseverance, ability and devotion of the three witnesses, who haye so materially aided in bringing these mon,” nodding at the prisoners, “to justice. Nicodemus Newcome, I shall recom- mend the Treasury authorities to pay you the reward of a thousand dollars offered for the con- yietion of Jonas Tover.” Extree rose, and, glancing at his old enemies, said proudly; “Yer honor, I don’t want no reward. When I was put in prison, called a thief, an’ given away, 1 took a vow dat, asjsure as I lived, I’d find out dem burglars, an’ bast dem lyin’ dertectives. Yer honor, I’ve kept me'word. J’ve got me reward!” “ Rah! rah! rah!” wildly shouted thenewsboys, ‘while the ladies cried and cheered with joy. “Remove the prisoners,” directed the judge. When this was done, and quiet restored, the learned recorder, addressing Josie, said: “Josie Perry, you haye rendered your fellow ereatures a service, for you hayo greatly assisted your partner in his dangerous task; as he refuses ‘the reward, I shall recommend that it be paid to you!” hearing which the girl rose, and, ina proud, clear voice, replied : “Your honor, I thank you for your kind words. but J did it allfor Extree! I cannot takea rewar for helping him.” Then, blushing like a moss- rose, seated herself by Nick, and gently pressed ‘his hand. ; “Joseph Rudolph,” erlnnely corder, for Josie’s action ha courting days. “Never,” eried little Joe, in his shrill yoice. “Say yer honor,” whispered Extree to his pard. “Never,-yer honor,” grinned the newsboy. «Joseph Rudolph,” said the judge, ‘you have shown that, though small in stature, you have the heart and spirit ofa man! You, at least, will not refuse the reward?” : Joe scratched his Sey ere looking comically at his partners, naively waid : “Yer bet I won’t, jedge |” “Rah!” roared the newsboys, in the body of the court, while the judge, jury, and ladies freely gaye vent to their merriment. _ In the midst of the excitement, Josie and Mr. ‘Tom quietly slipped away to the news-stand, observed the re- recalled his own CHAPTER XLII: OUR HERO ENTERS THE NEWS-STAND. Ir was useless to restrain the newsboys’ delight, So the judge retired. z : “Bravo, Extree!” cheered the lads, passing the barriers, and crowding around him and his com- panion. ‘Bravo, little Joe!” “Where’s Josie?” demanded our hero. “She’s gone out with Mr. Tom,” sobbed Mrs. Rudolph; who was crying with joy. “Come,” excitedly observed Nick, “I’m goin’ ter take me proper place in der ole stand! Boys, come an’ see me do it.” : Tho exultant crowd parted and allowed the lads to pass; then when they arrived at the doors, four boys, with drums, headed by big Jemmy, who acted as marshal, beganto beat a triumphant ran-tan-tan upon their instriments, and to head _ a procession that was rapidly forming in the City Hall Park. : Seeing ‘the commotion, his honor, the mayor, who had taken a great interest in the trial and was watching the assemblage from one of the ‘windows of the Court House, ordered a squad of police to take charge of the affair; and soon a dozen stalwart cops joined them, and kept off the fast accumulating crowd of spectators, “The Hibernians have the service of the officers to clear the way,” laughingly remarked his honoy, “Tl give the newsboys a turn.” «Just then the editor of'a well-known paper for boys, who:had been greatly pleased with Extree’s behavior, came out of the City Hall, and, seeing how matters stood, inquired: “Where’s your music, big Jeommy?” ‘**Got der drums,” laughed the boy. “Oh, that wovt do for The Boys of New York,” said the gentleman, who noticed a German band among the spectators; then stepping up to the captain of the police, whispered to him, affer which he descended the steps, crossed to where the musicians were. Standing, and, hastily driving a bargain, engaged them for the occa- sion, “Rah!” shouted the newsboys, who under- stood his action. ‘‘Three cheers for our news- paper publisher!” “Now go ahead, boys,” cried. the gentleman, « There’s a band for you. Take Extree back in state, to his news-stand. ‘Way you go,” If ever a boy felt proud it was Extree Nick at that moment. — He was clfitting with his old chums on the steps of the City Hall, saying: * Bys, [tell yer, I feel good.” ‘ Big Jemmy soon got ‘der boys” into line; then carrying a damp extra—as though fresh from the press—hoisted on a*long stick, like a bunner, he headed the procession, and gaye the word: “March !” see) First walked six officers in open order; then came Big Jemmy bearing the “ extra,” which he proudly waved; after him were the drummers, playing ‘ The Mulligan Tattoo,” then four hun- dred newsboys, and as many bootblacks, cheer- ing like forty, while following them was the Ger- man band, playing “See the Conquering Hero Comes!” Next, Extree Nick, arm in arm with Joe, who marched on tiptoe, in order to look as tall as his pard; and after our boys marched.a mixed army of friends and admirers, and six officers, who guarded. the rear. The afternoon was cold and clear, and Broad- way was not overcrowded, so they marehed up it in fine order, the lads cheering and being cheered by the spectators who lined the side- walks, ” ; ; It was a great occasion for the New York news- Boye, and they felt proud of Extree, Josie and oe. Many of them had attended the funeral of our hero’s father; besides, all of them knew his his- tory, and the yow he had made never to enter his néws-stand until he had cleared his character and brought his enemies to justice. On they maréhed, and finally reached the office of the Portable Gas Company, when the police took chargexof both ends of the block, and the procession closed up. Aboye the news-stand was an American flag, while inside the edifice was Josie, weaving a bou- quet of white flowers; and smiling as proudly as a queen, i ; The German band took up its position to the left, and the boys ranged in a dense semicirele about the place, while Mr. Tom MeNally ad He entered, slyly squeezed her hand, and, turn- ing to the delighted crowd, saucily shouted: “VYar—here yar Euree!”’ when the boys gave a cheer that sounded like the roar of a troop of young giants. : : ‘Three cheers for Hxlree Nick !” “Three cheers for Josie Perry!” “Three cheers for little Joe Rudolph?” «Three cheers for Mr. Tom McNally!” ‘ alpen the noise died away, the delighted news- oy said: ; * T toid yer dat Nick would do der trick.” In ten minutes the crowd melted away, and Extree, Josie and Joe set to work as quietly as though they had never had anything to disturb their business. ; About two hours afterwards our newsboys were waiting, checkin hand, for the extra edition con- taining the verdict in the case of Tover and his associates. “ Make way fur Extree, der hero ob der hour,” eee Big Jemmy, elbowing a path for Nick and 06, “Oh, scratch yer ear an’ trot,” modestly grin- ned Extree, but it was no. use, the boys insisted upon his being served first. He caught the damp sheet of papers and clam- bered up the crowded steps, forhe was a news- boy heart and soul, and the touch of an *‘ extra” thrilled him like'thée smé]l of powder does an old man-o’-war’s-man. ' Separating half of the sheets he tossed them to Joe, saying: fs eof ,pard. Shute ahead,” then start- “‘Dere yer are, ed off up Broadway, shouting: “Yar, here yar, Zxiree, full-e-count ob der trial ob the noble Uncle Toyer, de ex-detectives, Piper, Snell an’ Green; the sneak-thief, Buda Ketchum, an’ der innercent button-maker, Fritz Hermann. Yar, here yar. Full-e-count ob der werdict and der complements ob der judge, ter der witnesses, Extree, Josie an’ Joe! Yar, here yar, Extree !” .Our hero was so well known that:he sold out long ere he reached his news:stand; however, he kept two copies, which he tucked under his jacket. : ® When he arrived near Josie, he tossed one of the extras into her lap, then, entering Mr. Tom’s office, handed him the other paper, saying: “ Dero, boss, it’s all over wid ole Tover. Yer’ve bin awful kind ter us.” és : ‘¢ Extree Nick,” said Mr. Tom, Hat and pre- att be mad, “if you ever say that again, ‘* Tell me ter scratch me ear an’ trot?” merrily inquired the scamp. ‘Well, Mr. Tom, T’ll try not ter say anything more about it; but yer have bin awful good ter me, yer haye, an’ no. mistake; conteever,” “You monkey,” laughingly replied Mr. Mc- Nally. ‘There, go and talk te Josie; see,” point- ing through the window, “she’s waiting for Ou ” -. ; ’ “God bless her,” murmured the happy news- boy. « ‘She’s waiting fur me, so she is.. Well,” winking at his si friend, “Josie Perry does think a heap of Hutree.” 2 And here we must for atime say adieu to our smart, earnest, quick, sassy, happy-go-lucky. fearless man as our old frien , Extree ick, — ; “tTseful and Instructive Books. HOW TO BOX.—The art of self-defense made easy. Containing over ‘\_ thirty illustrations of guards, blows and the different positions of a boy should obtain one of these useful and in- structive books, as it will teach you how to box without an instructor, Only 10 cents. For sale by all newsdealers, or sent, post paid, on re- -ceipt of price. Address Ff ank Tousey, publisher, good boxer. Eve Moore street, New York, P. O. Box 2730. HOW TO BECOME AN ATHLETE.—Giving full instruction for the use ot — dumb-bells, Indian clubs, parallel bars, horizontal bars, and various ‘other methods of developing a good, healthy muscle; containing over Every boy can become strong and healthy by _ following the instructions contained in this little book. 4 all newsdealers, or sent to your address, postage free, on receipt of sixty illustrations. ~ 10 cents. Frank \ New York. Box 2730. manner possible, 34 and 86 North » HOW For sale by. HOW YO BECOME A SPEAKER.—Containing fourteen illustrations; giving the different positions requisite to become a good speaker, reader and elocutionist. Also containing gems from all the popular authors of prose and poetry, arranged in the most simple and concise For sale by 1 and Canada, or sent to your address; eae free, on receipt af ten cents. Address Frank Tousey, -publi street, New York. Box 2730. RN all newsdealers in the United States her, 84 and 36 North Moore TO WRITE LETTERS.—A wonderful little book, telling you how to write £6 your sweetheart, your father, mother, sister, bi ployer; and, in fact, everybody and anybody you wish to write to. Every young man and every young lady in Lha her, 84 and 96 North’ M Eee Sitios suabealil of prise: Adaebs Neankettousey. pantaharetA Tousey, publisher, an orth Moore ‘street, his office on receipt of price. dress Frank Tousey, publisher, me ete eRe S and 86 North Moore street, Now York. P.O. Box 27807 ter, brother, em« 6 land should haye this 7x
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~ 323 Adventures ae : Philadelphia Detective _ 829 Thre 324 Richard Sava; 325 The Mystery oft & Misspent Life 826 Double-Six 327 The Dominoes of Death 328 Gipsy Bess ueen of the Highway 830 Rodolf, the Traitor 831 The Boy Cavaliers _ 832 Young Captain Kidd 833 The Secret of Wizard Lake $34 The Prairie Witch 885 The Hunters of the Silver Trail - 836 Traveling With Barnum 837 Three Dashing Hussars 838 Pat O’Corker; or, Always te the Front. 339 The Diamond Bye . 340 Jack of the Naval Brigade 841 The Zula’s Daughter ~ 342 The Haunted House at Deadman’s Corner : Ppt, pou E - O51 ae mgd he aide of iat “B82 The 843 Sir Guy’s Secret 244 The Fortunes of an Acrobat ' $45 For the Green Flag of Old Ireland 346 Kathleen O'Shaughnessy 347 Tom the Midshipman 348 Out With Captain Cook 349 Every Inch a Sailor 350 Ralph, the Light Dragoon 351 The Brothers in Arms 362 Jack of Cheapside $53 The Green Banner of Islam 354 The Colonel’s Daughter : 355 Walter's Secret 356 The Outlaws of Berkeley Forest 357 Redspear the Outlaw 358 The House of a Hundred Terrors 359 Oswald, the Unknown 360 Adventures of a Free Lance 861 The Treacherous Knight 362 Young Jack Harkaway and His Boy Tinker 363 Tinker’s Man Bogey 364 Young Harkaway in Spain 365 Young Harkaway in Turkey ~ 866 Mole Among the Mussulmans 367 Young Harkaway and the Arabs 8088 Young Harkaway and the Counterfesters 369 The Secret of the Traitor’s Gate 370 The Waif of the Tower 871 Ralph Wildhawk 872 The Brigand Chief 873 Marco Bravo 874 Zara, the Gipsy 875. The Servian Spy 876 Sword and OCimeter 7 Adam Bell 8 The Archers of Inglewood $79 The KiNight of the Red Cross {0 Jack-o’-the-Cudgel : 881 Croquard, the Free Lance ‘air Maid of Kent 333 Dick the Brewer 884 The Oxford and Cambridge Eight 885 The Wild Huntsman 3&6 Tom Mansfield, the Smuggler 887 The Sunken ‘Treasure 888 The Slave’s Revenge 889 Oris Carrol, the Scout 800 Phil. Rayleizh, @ London Arab« 891 The Knight of the Iron Hand 892 Tom Lester 803 Bicycle Bob B94 Mark Darrell 895 Oscar PCTS or, the Forger’s Victim 896 Tom Oakland 897 The Mad Alchemist; or, Mysteries Unfolded.. By Dr. H. M. Jordan 898 Worm, the Pittsburg Detective.By An Old Retective 899 Rob Racket, the Scourge of the Cowboys 400 Gipsy Dick; or. Born a Detective...........+.. By Seth Huntington ‘401 The Red River Pilot ...........By Paul Braddon 402 Catana, the Robner’s Daughter. By Seth Huntingdon 408 Detective Sketches....By A New York Detective 404 The Boy Scouts of the EASY, Seth Huntingdon 405 The Heir of Longwor' 406 A Ghostin the Mirror, and other stories,....... By Allyn Draper 407 Strange Stories of Maniacs......+.s-.+see0- By Dr. R. Jackson and Orrin Goble 408 The. Skeleton’s Legacy: or, The Mystery of the Island... stoovapeecs BY. Col. J: L. Trueman 409 The Pirate’s “Son.. +-.-By J. T. Brougham 410 The Young Reven tective; ory Among the (oonshiners../....0......BY. 4 Retired Detective 411 Little Hall, the 1 >5y nglnéer By’ Capt. Will Dayton 412 Captain Hurricane; or, The Waif of the Wreck y Allan Arnold 418 Towpath Ted. A True po of Life en a CGanal......... -..-By J. M. Bzadon 414 gre Ghost’ of Paul Priestly; or, The Mystery of aggard Hollow........-.By James Greenwood 415 The Cruise of the Beauty..By Captain will Day ton 416 Joe Jordan, the Young Iayentor 417 Ebenezer Crow—comic 8 Oharley Chariton, the Young Magician........ By Col. J. M. Travers “9 Gorilla George; or, A New York Boy. im Africa By J. L. Freeman 420 Stuttering Mose; er, The Old Scout of the Rev- olut HON, sesso seeceseBY General J. L. Johnston 421 The Kingdom in the Sea........By J, G. Bradley #22 Lighthouse Lem; or, The Mystery of Dead- man’s Reef, ...-sseree+e-BY an Old Sea Captain 423 Phe Search for the “‘ Midas”; or, Treasures | From the i Heenan A Gerald Fleming apt, Will Dayton — WIDE AWAKE LIBRARY---Continued. . Trailer ofthe
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By Alexander Armstrong - 616 Among the Crocodiles; or, AcveneyTes in India, By Harry Rockwood ; 617 Lance and Lasso; or, The Young Mustangers of the Plaing.,..... teeereees es by Marline Manly 618 The Chief of the Delawares..........By Kit Clyde 619 The Shortys Out Fishing—comic....By Peter Pad 620 et ans Tom; or, Fighting the Molly Ma- gui ASSN had kf Sergeant O'Donnell 621 The Captain of the Nine; or, Sorat a Leader. . By Harry Rockwood 622 Sassy Sam; or, A Bootblack’s raya’ ‘Around - the World—comic..... .By Commodore Ah-Look | 623 Young Putnam; or, Always to the Front,...... y Harrigan & Hart. eu Nogeet Ned; or, The Mountain Gueen’s Venge- Rs anivaaine tpa¥enccauees DY MOLES, Redwing 625 Renn: Reade, Tr, and His Sire Wonder.... *Monatain ” of “’%6”; or, The Green Mountain See Ets cs tesseneressees BY Kit Clyde lectric Boat....... By ** Noname’? 627 prank Reade, Jr., and Ais : Chov': : Gil- Edge..........By Marry Rockwood oa ae Reade, ae and is Adventures With . _ His La*est: Invention............By ‘Noname™ 630 Th Shortys Out Gunning—comic....By Peter Pad 631 Frank Rea ,Jr., and? . Air Sh'r. By *Noname ” @32 The \ sng Boy “Chief; or, Adventures in the — Far secre BY ‘*Noname” sases West.. ersotoiieg | BY: Captain Will Dayton. - 683 Frank Reade. Jr.’s Marvel. es ue fhe atignme ngs on the Rocky.- «-... By Kit Clyde WIDE ee Oe ES LIiBY AR Y---Continued 635 Sassy Sam Sumner—a sean to Sassy Sam— Soon ae «.e-.,+-By Commodore Ali-Look 686 The House of Horrors..... By James D, Montague 637 The hen ofthe Northwest.By Alexander Armstrong 639 The Captain’s Secret; or, The Wreck of the “Daisy ?’.....0.3 eescsesscescocesaeBY Ait Clyde 639 Among the Arabs.........+ece0c00e-.By Don Jenardo 640 Garry Galore; or, The Adventures of a Wild Trish Boy at Home and Abroad........ By Corporal Morgan Rattler 641 Cast Up by the Waves.........By Alex. Armstrong 642 The Shortys Farmng—comic.........By Peter Pad 648 Under the Ground; or, The Wild Man of the Cavern. The Strangest SEN Ever Told. By Harry Rockwood 644 Yankee Pete, the Man of Grit.............. Ry James Dd. Montague 645 Hotspur Harry; or, The Texan Trailers’ 2.0... ‘By Alex. Armstrong 646 Buckskin Burke; or, The Cache of oe Soaee Kit Clyde 647 ela and Regulars; or, The ace or Inde- pendence. wesacestsceeveeaeDY OOl. Ralph Fenton 648 The aS ey Of Dead Man’s Castle............. By James D. Montague 649 Mad Pete; or, a Feartul Retribution. -By. Leon Leroy 650 Otfon a Man-of-War......By Major Walter Wilmot 651 Frank Reade, Jr., in the Clouds....By ‘“‘Noname?? 654 The HAM Pedestrians; or, From California to MaihOstar ten eases orks ce DY TARDY Montague 653 Trapper Against Renegade; or, Life on the Pld Siaesen tons tresseseaee DY Kit Olyde 65% Younr Davy Grocket; or, The Hero of Silver. GuUiGhiwectieas cnae svecesee DY Wild Bill 655 Tom Basswood, the Swamp Hero. By Capt. E. Park 656 A Sailor’s Diary.... by Col. Leon Lenoir 657 Frontier Wredv sts. seccststseectecles By Texas Joe 658 Tales of the War By J. D. Ballard 659 Wrecked on the 0 y Zach Brewste 660 The Boy Mechanic.. ....By Jas. D. Montague 661 Among the Danites;’ or, ‘The Prlos ofa Life... E By Rit Clyde 662 New York Noll, the Hazbor Police Boy. ...... ~ By Horace Appleton 663 Young Marion, the Patriot Spy of the Revolu- THOT. coe vcewscceseceneescverees BY Ralph Morton 664 Young ‘America in’ Egypt; or, The Drummer Boy’s Bravery....... BY Alexander Armstrong 665 The'Shortys’ Country Stote—comic...By Peter Pad 666 Guuboat Harry; or, The Navy's Best Man...... By Gol. Ralph Fenton 667 Frank Reade, Jr.’s Great Electric ae ey aC, and What He Did for Charity.........By ‘‘Noname”? 668 Dick Wheel, the Young Roller Skater. Seqediene By Percy B. St. John 669 The Ghostly Bell Ringer......By Horace Appleton 670 Man-ofWar Dick; or, Fighting for the Stars and Bars tes seeeeeDY Ralph Morton 671 The Shark Pighters: or, At War with the De- y Harry Rockwood Horse gaer Be eS By Morris Redwing 673 The Young Arctic Explorers; or, In Search of the North Pole.......5.....By Harry Rockwood 674 Old One Bye, the Trapper Guide of the North- WESt. ce ewicesencoseccssccescssseseby “ Noname”? 675 A Yankee Boy in Moxico... «+-+eBY Dom Jenardo 676 Cast Up or, Adventures on the Briny Deep. By J. T. Brougham 677 Steam-boat Steve. the Boy Pilot of the Missis- sippi. spe seseeeeses-By Hal Standish 678 The Yankee. hy ‘Whaler. -»+-.By Albert J. Booth 679 Little Mike Malloy, the Pride of the Irish Coast. By Corp, Morgan Rattler 680 Dick Twilight's School PEMD. Geigrebie nes By Captain Will ‘Dayton 681 Diek, the Qngineer...... ssecee- By Albert J. Booth 682 The Spy of the Northwest... By Jas, D. Montague 683 The Pacific Specter....By Alexander Armstrong 684 The Lost Whaler; or, Adventures of the North- 1D SCAG.ccccecsesesesee eseceeee By O. Little 685 Panama Pete; or, The Outlaws of the Isthmus By Hal Standish 686 Sightless Saul, theMysterious Man at Montana -** Noname ”? 687 Joseph Jump and His Old Blind Nigam By Peter Pad 688 A Struggle for Fame; or, Fighting Against Fate... ..c.eeeccaeseseeurse by H. K, Shackleford 689 Jack Hawser’s Tavern—comic.....By Peter Pad 690 Black piamond Bill; or, The Hero of the Coal, dseseesssereess bY Ralph Royal ow He Made His. For- .By Captain Will Dayton v3 r, Bound to be aTar...... By Howard De Vere A Tale of Mexico,........ By H. K. Sha se ececeees mon Fish,. 672 Sam, Saddle the Wila Mine 691 A Boy W h Grit, and 692 TAGE Boman 693 The Sunken City. 694 Royal Dick; or, Standing by His Chums.. By Hal Standish 695 Wing and Wing; or, The Young Captain of the Fly: YAWAY.--.0ce+0e senseessseeeeeby Kit Clyde 696 Dick Davit, the American Boy Middy..By C, Little 697 Frank Reade, Jr., With His Airship ini Africa + BY “Noname ” 698 Trusty Joe, the Brave Old Scout...By * Noname” 699 Found at Sea, or, The Secret of a REO Life. 700 Little Ned, the Leader of the School.......... By Captain wi Dayton 701 wit or the Wisp; or, The Wila Man of the OBStawsieveneees 702 Acrobat Ned, the Prince ‘of the Air... -by ©. Little 703 Jack, the Wrecker’s Son; or, Adventures on the Coast......0.....s0eee.eeby J. T. Brougham ‘104 The Fire aug ef Chica: 706 Lighthouse No, 6: on the 6 ‘Ghost of the Sea.... by PMS Draper By Hal Standish | sosecccesee by Kit. Clyde «aby Jas. D. Montague | 167 Tick Tack, the fiom s-se, Boys 706 The Wolf-Fighters; or, The Adventures of Tio New York Boys in Minnesota. Pex ey ae by Howard Be Vere 107 Rail road Larry; or, ‘Always in on Time...... by Aibert i. Booth 708 Bound Together; or, The Youn rire Laddies of Springdale. ...c.sesescuses y Robert Lennox 709 Twe Weeks on a Wreck; or, ACES in Mid Ocean........--sessee+- +++ DY Hal Standisi< 710 The Jolly Travelers; or, “Around ny World for Fun—Comic........snssecersescese DY Peter Pag 711 The Haunted Pioneer; or, Fighting for, Texas by **Noname” 712 Leaves From a Diary; or, A oURE Clerk's. Downfall........ tenes H: K. Shacklefora 713 econe find the Renegade; or, Life in Ken- . UUCKY vsscesanescnastastavectesa cess DVN Bit -Olyde 714 Before the Mast; or, A Sailor Bey’s Travels in Many Seah einen arenes. . by Jas, D. Montague 715: Monaco, the Jaguar Hunter.....by Hal Standish 716 From Page to Senator; or, Moss his Way Up. See ep WALI Shackleford. 717 aut Cleary's Country Court—comic......... by Tom Teaser 718 Old Rough and Ready; or, The Heroine of Montereycqcsee case coslenn y ‘* Noname !) 719 Fire Bell Dick; or, The Rival Hook and Ladders by Robert Lennoz 720 Kidnapped; or, Forced on a vee ‘o”’ War..: y J. G. Bradley 721 Jack 0’ the Plains; or, The Headiows Mazeppa y Paul Bradden 722 The Prisoners of the Castle; or, A Blow for Freedom....:.++s++esce++-+DY Jas. D. Montague 723 Muldoon, the Sport—comic........by Tom Teaser 724 A Netysboy’s Trip Around the World.. Areas ckleford by H. K. 725 In Dixie; or, A War Correspondent’ 8 Thrilling Adventures. asjaaesema's'e Col. Ralph Fenton 726 The Skeleton Sentin y Lieut. B. H. Kellogg 727 Muidoon’s Vacation— ¢..... by Tom Teaser 728 The Valleydale Social Club; or Ruined by Wine by H. K, Shackleford - 729 Davy Crockett’s Vow; or, His Last ph for Vengeance... sssseeeees by Kit’ Olyde 730 Keeping His “ Lucky Pyandirs PIUCK.. 2.02.01 ceeeeereeees DV Jas, D, Montague 731 Young Tom Drake; or, Bound to be a Captain By the Author of “Privateer Tom,’ etc., etc, 132 the aay gas Maiden; or, Through Deadly Dan- ee by. Corp. Morgan Rattler 733 he Exiled Prince; or, Two Boy Paotete in Alaska ; as tiniee » G, Bradley 7134 Pilot Boat No. 1 ‘and Its American Boy 7 Saptatn & it Cl; 135 In the Wild West; or, On The Plains ¥ With Buffalo Bill.................by Robert Maynard 736 A Sailor Boy's Kingdom; or, Young America Inthe Sonth Sea Islands. .by H. K. Shackleford 737 The Forest Mystery..........by Jas. D. Montague 738 Beare), Ben; or, Three mevagers in the Yellow- ston teesvvsenrseceeesDY Kit Ol¥de 739 A Wait from tlie ‘sea; or, Flung from the Foam by Thomas P, Murray 740 The Book Agent’s LuckK—comic..........by “Ed 741 Dandy Rock, the Man from Texas............ by D. W, Stevené 742 Near the Gallows; or, A Young ei Peril by R.-T. Mmmet 743 Dick Daunt.the Diver; or, Down Among the Sponge-Cutters, screenees DY J. G. Bradley 744 Across the Continent op Wings; or, Frank Treade, Jr.’s Greatest Hlight......by ‘‘Noname?? 745 Lost In an Unknown Sea; or, Adventures Un- der the Harth........... to. by Jas. D. Mon 16 746 The Shorty Kids; or, Three Chips of Three Oid BIOCKS—COMIC. cee ee secu eecececeee-DY Peter Pad 747 Dick Walton Among the Cannibals........... by W. I, James, Jz, cs The Six Swordsmen; or, The Boy Cavalter.... | by Richard R. Montgomery 140 Tue Pa eest or, Dick Walton in the South W, I. James, Jr, 1h Frank Reade. ee in His New Air-Ship..s....s.0.-+ y ‘‘ Noname ? 751 The Fighting Twins; or, The agate ef Mys- tery.. sssaessesesbDy Richard R. Montgomery 752 Five Dollars; or, A Cheap Revenge............ by Percy B. St, John 153 ee. MeGuinness; or, Travenoe for Pleas- / weeecene ‘In, “Exploring —COMUG Feat snes avadecdebiec ene ‘Tom Teaser 754 oc Grudge, the Xcout; or, ‘The Castle on the © Lake. --.--by “* Noname » Boy Jumper i. K. Shackleford 756 Little Jack and His Twenty Boy Firemen......— by Robert Lennox 757 Dick Spray; or, A Stowaway’s my ee to ane G. Bradley 758 Barnum’s Hunters; or, Trappiit witha mals for the Greatest Show on Harth...... By Richard R. Montgomery. 759 The Seyen Masks; or, The Quaker City League — By Percy B. &t. Jonu 760 Muldoon’s Night School—comic....by Tom Teaser) 761 The Unhicky Miner; or, The Rivals for Dead Man’s Claim....... +eee»-by Paul Braddon 162 ol. Mg Cowboy; or, ng King of Las- pesepeceSe vise satsuee vecapeOVuleWes Rae 763 His First Drink; or A Country Boy's Ti Ne w York.. -by H Shacklerord 764 The Czar’s Boy or, Young Amer- ica In Russia .... sensceecase- DY O, Little - 765, Reapers and Tra. ; OF, Battles With the — REGIMEN secs costs cease ses: gues “Noname 7? 766 On the Queen’s Service........... by J. . G. Bradley or, Sharp Work for a Milton. TEP CE by BolleraianncE: 755) Young. Sam ‘Paton, “the ‘Gkampion
Page 28
LATEST ISSUES OF : = The Great 5 Cent Wide Awake Library. 792 Satan; or, The Mystery of Ten Years......... by Howard De Vere ‘793 Those Quiet Twins—comic..........by Peter Pad 794 The Czar's ee or, The Burning of “Moscow......- pecoveesee DY KR. T. Emmet 395 A Soldier at 16; or, Figating for the Ba re ¥ C. Little 496 Teddy of the Toll Gate; or, The Man with the Green Shades..........By Corp. Morgan Rattler 497 The Mayflower Boys; or, Life in a Yankee CHOO!: s0= sees cnacnese ven sDY Percy B. St. John 798 The Young Snow Trailers; or, Big Track, the . Giant Moose Hunter...... secs DY Paul Braddon 499 Denny the Clown, A jon of Circus Life in -Treland..:..........by Corporal Morgan Rattler $00 On ihe Rails or, Perils in the Life cf a Young En seeceeesss-Dy Albert J. Booth 01 3,000 ites ona Bicycle; or, A Race Across the Continent. .........00....cseceeeeeee bY O. Little €02 Fearless Phil; or, The ero of Rugged Rift..... by Paul Braddon 803 The Shortys’ Christmas Racketa—comic...... by Peter Pad €04 Claim 4; or, The Huachback of Placer Pocket by **Noname ”? 805 The Miser’s Son; or, In Search ef Hidden GOI, Joc. -cecceseee-seeeee-DY H, K. Shackleford 806 The Waifs of New York.....c2sss. essere es by N.S. Wood (The Young ‘American: ‘Aetor). 807 yu the Bear; or, The Pranks of a Wild Lrish ~ Boy.....---.-.-----by Corporal Morgan Rattler 08 The Haunted Bell rotor: or, The Hidden Mys- TOLY soeckscess vscssseseceeeby Percy B. St. John 809 Two Years on an Island of Ice..by A vert J. Booth 810 A Bootbiack’s Luck.,.... seseeee by C. Little $11 Around the World in a Balloon; or, Thousands of Miles Through the Air..... 2 a.by R. T. Emmet 412 The Fur Hunters of Winnipeg...by Paul Braddon 813 Six Weeks Under Ground...........py Kit Clyde 614 anes prepenvs Boy; or, The Hero of the White Secs ccesececereeveee-DY H. K. Shackleford 615 The Electric Horse; or, Frank Reade, Jr., and His Father in Search of the Lost Treasure of the Peruvians..................-dy ‘* Noname”? 416 Lion Luke, the Boy Animal Tamer........-.-. by Percy B. St. John “817 Carillo, the Corsair; or, The Mysterious Men- arch of the Mediterranean..... -by J. G. Bradley 818 Fearless Phil’s Chase............by Paul Braddon - $19 The Ghost of the School-House........by ©. Little 820 The Young Avenger; or, The eae of the Silk MARK (caweos earns ...-by ‘*Noname?? $21 Up and Do or, The Lite ofa an Elevator Boy by Percy B. St. John 822 Dick the Middy; or, A Boy’s Lite on @ Man-o’- War sceescsesecesseDy J, G. Bradiey red the ‘Boy Actor; or, Bound to be a Star. : by N.S. Wood "824 A Rolling S ck Read. ig Life of Fun ~-comic.... sesee----DY Peter Pad 825 The Secret of the Tattoo Map..by R. T. Emmet 26 Custer’s Little Dead Shot; or, The Boy Scout of the Little Big Horn.... .-.-by"* Noname?? $27 A Queer Race. The Story of a Strange People by William Wesatall 628 Kit Carson’s Boy Trapper........b¥ Paul Braddon 629 Sg Ben, the Boy Spy of the Reyolution., 830 Paddy Miles” Luck; or, The a Boy Miner.. prea rp. Morgan Rattler 831 The Boy Fish; or, Little D ck the Diver??.2.. by R. T, Emmet $32 Ben the Bowsman; or, Adventures in the Mon- “tezuma Swamp......... Seah rises Pek pod hos; 633 The Mastodon’s Cave; or, Two Wide Awake : Boys in the Far Weat.... .»by Percy B. St. John 834 The Boy Stage Driver; or, The Hero of Rocky PAsS.. 5+ seseceeeecseees coves - DY Paul Bracdon 635 From Newsboy Up; or, A New York Boy in : “BUBINESS oases scat cs yy N. S. Wood (The Young American “Actor) 836 Figen. ie the Wild West; or, A New York Boy’s. ‘Search for Buffalo’ Bill... ....2ssby R. T. Emmet €37 The Secret of the Sealed Gold Mines.by‘* Noname ” 638 Little Bones the*ight-Rope Walker, .by C. Little 839 won ew York toSanFranciscoina Catama- ~ Vigdeatsosséoctesviees DY VON Stermanl “640 A eyotng Jay Gould; or, A Bo Ameng the Mouey Kings......:1......by H. K. Shackleford 41 Only an Errand Boy; or, Getting Up in the Wor Satccsavdeveatoescors csDY Ke 1s Wim laeL $42 Jack Ready’s School Scrapes—comic. by Peter Pad $43 The Ice-Boat Boys; or, Cruising on Frozen ‘Waters inthe Northwest..........by C. Little 844 ats Blind Joe; or, The Sharks of New York. iy N.S./ Wood (The Young American Actor) 845 vente Troticiad, the Boy Gunner.by John Sherman -846 The Boy Gold Hunters; or, Young New York a in @alifornia....................by R. T. Emmet 847 The Shortys in the Wild West—comic.by Peter Pad 848 Billy the Bugler. A Story of Governor’s Island ; and New Work....+-ee.s+--ese-ee-s-by CO. Little 649 Frank: Rene, or 3 Chase Through the Clouds. . by “Noname” pAOOTOES 850 A Lucky Boy; or, The Mystery as i Tron Onest aeeceacst oe : Rk. T. Emmet 851 My Friend Smith...........by ‘tana Baines Reed 852 The Boy Crusoes; or, The Young Castaways Of the Pacific.......... by St. George Rathborne $53 Jerry the Tumbler; or, The Wonder of the Dg..... «+-«see--by Corpora: Morgan Rattler 854 ‘Ned, the Bound Boy; or, Through 100 Miles of Foes.. enecocecsesseoe- DY O. Little 855 Frank Reade, Irs and His Electric Team..... by ““Noname’? 856 The Shortys’ Christmas Snaps—comic...... - by Peter Pad 857 Two Waifs: cr. Afloat in New York..........- by N. S. Wood (The Young American Actor) 858 pee tes Phil in Disguise; or, The Tiger’s Last Settee cdineesaeen eae ewan, Pau) Braddon 859 A dontieeh Boy ‘in New York; or, Bouud to Make His Money... Soeces DY: A. Ky Shackleford 866 Steamboat Billy; or, The State-Room Secret. . 861 The Boy Lion ‘amers; or, Adventures in Africa 862 Out With Kit Carson. A Story of the Karly -Days of Kansas............-...-by R. T. Emmet 863 The Boy Samson; or, Taking Care of ae Lit : tle 864 The Boy From New York; or, A Fight for Five Millions....................by Percy B. St. John 865 Smart & Co. the Boy Peddlers—comic...... +. by Peter Pad 866 A Chicago Boy; or, Up From the Lowest..... By John Sherman 867 a Ro Boy; or, Maloney After Education— Co cvecccccccccscocesscuceseo DY TOM Teaser 868 The Boy Telegraph Overton or, The Mystery of a Midnight essage....b y Col. Ralph Fenton 869 Dick Boldhero; or, The Strange Adventures of a Young Yankee Sailor.......Written by Himself 870 Garry the Greenhorn; or, From Stowaway to SOMAtOr....acccoce -by Corporal Morgan Rattler 871 From errand Boy to Lawyer; or, ee 10 be At the Top.....-..o.0-2---00---by R. T. Emmet 872 Bob Allen’s Ranch; or, A Cattle King at reese ‘i 3. Little 873 Behind the Scenes; or, Out witha New. York Combination—comic.....+. +. ...by Peter Pad 874 A Boy Among the White Caps; or, A Victim of thie LAS A .csecesccssahecdae by, Paul Braddon 875 General Washington’s Boy; or, The Youngest Soldier in the Revolution.....by Ralph Morton 876 Pawnee Bill and the Oklahoma Boomers..... by Geo. W. Goode 877 Frank Reade, Jr.’s Search for a Sunken Ship; or, Working for the Government.by *“‘ Noniame?? 878 Young Captain Tom Drake; or, In Search of the Pirate’s Home......,.....-.-. eee by the Author of “ Captain Tom Drake, ete, 879 A Bad Boy’s Note Book—comic.........by “Ed? 880 The Young Railroad King, or, From Brake- man to President.........by "Col. Ralph Fenton 881 Joe Junk, the Whaler; or, Anywhere for Fun —COMIG ... .. «+-...by Peter Pad 882 Lost on the Atlan y Howard De Vere 883 Monitor Matt; or, The Giant ofthe Waves, A Story of the Great Rebellion...by Ralph Morton 884 The Boy Rovers; or, The Adventures of Two Plucky Boys.. ssoeeee Dy C, Little 885 His Own Boss; aptain of Cat- head Lake..................M7 Percy B. St. John 886 Braving the Flood; or, “The Piugky Eight of Two Jonstown Boys. occoeeee-- DY R, T. Emmet 887 Muldoon the solid Man—comic....by Tom Teaser 888 ae wor Star; or, From the hadnt to For- Oe ses eneeseeseccecssccss+--e-Dy N.S. Wood 889 The y oung Commander; or, A New York Boy ~ 4n the Southern War-.... -s-_»-by Ralph Morton 890 Two in a Box; or, The Long and Short of it—COMIC......0:0+++-ceeeecseese Dy TOM Teaser 891 The Soldier's Son; or, The Secret of the House of Hight Pines. "A Story of New York... * by C. ‘Little $92 Satin Sam the Young Western Sport.......... by Paul Braddon 893 The Funny Four--comic......-......-by Peter Pad 894 The White Queen of the Aztecs; or, Two Yan- “kee Boys in Mexico...+.00.....eby Re T, Emmet "95 The Dee 8 Son; or, The Imp of the Village —comic...... osesc-oress- Dy Tom Teaser 896 The Boy Slave of the “Galley; or, The Mystery ofthe Treasure Ship...... ‘py Percy B. St. John 897 A Bad Egg; or, Hard to Cee cke Comniae PF OLS ‘Tom Teaser 898 Two Years With a Pirate; or, The. hantom Ship of the Gold Coast... «----by J. G. Bradley 899 Muldoon’s Boardiag House-comic.by Tom Teaser 900 The Boy Diamond King; or, The Young Monte Christo of New York.........by ©. Little ‘901 Ikey; or, He Never Got Left-comic. by Tom Teaser 902 The Armorer’s Son; or, The Mystery of the Tower of London.....-...s +eseeby Ayn Draper | 903 ay pines or, Sharp Smart & Sassy-- a td vecnsevescoecssneeeucecssDVY TOM Teaser 904 pick ¢ Gcuways or, Fighting for a Fortune..... by Corporal Oren, Rattler coves nas abovd pooks are for ale by all newsdealors in the United States and Canada, or will be sent to yeur address, Post-pald, on seoeiot of price, & _ ..-- ¥RANK TOUSEY; Publisher, 933 Senator Muldoon—comic...-.... 905 Tom Quick, the Avenger of the Delaware.... by R. 'T. Emmet 906 Sam Switch the Boy Engineer; or, Begining at % the Bottom....., 2 .cssecenecs by bert Je Booth 907 Daring Dave the Diver; or, rhe rates of Swimmers... ..s00citceecc: seen scseseDY O. Little 908 Sam; or, The Troub)esome Foundling—comic. : by Peter Pad 909 Velvet Van; or, Deadly Grip and His Demon Bandvevesaseve soseecece-- by Paul Braddon 910 A Smart New York Boy; or, From Poverty to big Wealth..........sccees-.-.--. by John Sherman ~ 911 Foretop Tom; or, A Yankee Sailor Boy Among the Malay Pirates.....-by J. G. Bradley 912 Bulger Boom, the Inventor~ comic..by Peter Pad 913 Out in the Streets. A Story of High and Low Life in New York. ..... 0.206.) svse-s see by N. S. Wood (The Young American Actor) 914 The Swamp Demon; er, Lost For Aye Years by R. T Emmet 915 Denver Dan, Jr., the Stage Driver; or; The Mystery of Golden Guich........by “Noname 916 Muldoon’s Brother Dan—comic,..by Tom Teaser 917 Butfalo Bill’s Boy Broncho Breaker; or, The Youngest Hero ~- the Plains.. by Paut "Braddon 918 A Sailor at Filiw~-; or, Bess Cabin Boy to Oaptainiz-cacrssssesestaseete as rs G. Bradley 919 Henpecked—comic...... Doseceaes Peter Pad 920 Homeless 111; or A Poor Boy's ie in & Great Uity..........:.: by Captain Will Dayton 921 Wild Bili’s Loy Partner; or The Retisking’ Goll Secret... ©... 2c..¢.., by Paul Braddon 922 Mulddon’s Christmas—comic ss.eby Tom Teaser 923 Captain Jack the Pirate’s Foe; or. Tae Devil- fish of the Ind. ©....c..c.05 by Roger Starbuck 924 A Bad Boy as Schoci—comic..... arene -by “Ed.” 925 Mr. McGinty—comic..... by Tom Teaser 926 Lineman Joe the Boy Telegraph Olimber.... iy O. Little The Life 0. 2 Runaway OVacshonsade ; G, Bradley 928 Searching for Stanley; or Tom Stevens Ad- ventures in Africa........--..,.by R. T. Emmet 929 Boarding-School; or. Sam Bowser at Work and Play—comic...... soo. DY Peter Pad 930 Young Magic; or, The Boy “with a Chaimed Life..... o-rece. «DY Paul Braddon 981 Muldoon Out West—comic......-- by Tom ‘leaser — 932 The Boy Treasure Hunters; or, Sone, for Lost Money..: ..2-ss0-0-coeo-by John Sherman by Tom Teaser 934 Sam Johnson, the Negro Detective, by Harry Kane 935 Frank Reade, Jr., in the Far West; or, The Search for a Lost Gold Mine... by © Noname? 936 The Waif of Mystery Island; or, The Adven- tures of a Boy Who’ Was Kidnapped...... by Roger Starbuck 937 The Mystery of the Sealed Door: or, The Ola- + — est House in New York.........by R. T. Emmet 938 Island No. 7; or, The Pirates of a pattie Geo. W. Goode 939 Our Landiord; or, Life in French Pisteotpeate by Peter Pad 940 From Jockey to Judge; or. The Boy Who Was ; AlwayS AhCAd.......ceccecceececees DY O, Little 941 Alone in New York; or, Ragged Rok the News- boy.by N.S. Wood ( the Young American ‘Actok) 942 The Boy Express Messenger; or, Fighting the + “Train Robbers. ..cc:seses esses by John Sherman 943 Next Door; or. The Irish Twins—comic...... * by Tom Teaser 944 The Limbless Hunter; or, SiSlocum’s Revenge by Roger Starbuck 945,The Hoy. in Red; or, The Ozar’s tee Mes- sen saccieestscovecesepouscsec D) ger. ee 946 Adriftin the Antarctic: or, ABO Years. on a” 927 Shipped to A ere y J. by Tom Te i 042 Pawnee Bills or, The White Chiefs First War © Tra sae sesnceesceceesDY PAUl et 949 The Boy § Showman; or, A Circus Manager at’ ~ Six ». «.-by John Shendae £50 Tip Top. Teddy. the Youn Foretopman; or, ‘ Four Yeears Before the Mast...-by J. G. ‘Bradley 951 Mrs. Brown’s Boarding-Housé—comic........ by Peter Pad 952 The’ Hoy Sheriff, or, The eg of Peco Valley... y R. T. Emmet 953 The Buried “Gold “Ship; or, ‘The Satlor Boy’s Ghost........ ace croscee es DY OC, Little 954 Our Putin President; or, “The Oak That Came From the Acorn—comic.... e+esse-DY Pater Pad 955 Genera: Crook’s Boy Gnide; or. The Great Indian Fighter’s Black Hills Trail.,........ rf by Paul Braddon 956 Three Yankee Boys in Africa; or, The Giants, Of the CONZO...+.-++-«00- + by Percy B. St. Jonn 957 The Boy Surveyor; or, Running Out a Rail- road in the Indian Country...by John Sherman — 958 Rob Rounds, the Young Fireman.....by 0. Little 959 Muldoon’s Base Bal Club—comic. by Tom Teaser, : 34 and 36 NORTH MOORE 57, N. y RT, Emmet