Five Cent Wide Awake Library (vol. 1) (1886 05 12)
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LFIVE CENT Entered arcording to Act ot Congress, in the year 1886, ov FRANK TOUSEY, in the office of the Lidrarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. Entered at thé Post Office at New York, N. Y.. as Second Class Matter. - mere FRANK TOUSEY, FU SUISHES 34. 36 NonrH Moons Srneet, N. Y. » PRICE ¢ i No. 721, } COMPLETE. § NEw Yon, May 12, 1296. IssuED EveERy WEDNESDAY. 15 CENTS.‘ Vol I IRTHE HEADLESS | MAZEPPA 2 ae a va | \ ANN ! > AVN Be adion § NG ‘i vit | iy \ ‘N Nk
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2 —— The subscription price for THE WrpE AWAKE Lisrary for the year 1886 will be $2.50 per ears $1. aA ee 2 months post-paid. or! Xx FRANK TOUSEY, JACK 0° THE PLAIN THE HEADLESS ‘MAZEPPA. By PAUL BRADDON. Author of ‘‘ The Mysterious Five,’ ‘‘The Hand of Fate,” ‘* The Masked Brotherhood,” etc., ete., Stee ; CHAPTER L JACK O’ THE PLAINS. PUBLISHER, 34 and 36 North Moore Street, New In a little more than as many minutes three Over forest and plain hangs the solitude of | miles have been measured by his tireless feet. night. he fall moon casts its soft beams upon the earth, lighting to almost mid-day brilliancy the broad Savanna, while making weird, fantastic shadows ’mid the waste of timber which dot here and there the horizon-bounded expanse. The creatures of day long ‘since sought re- pose, but those of night are abroad in the fall enjoyment of their freedom. Birds of various kinds skim the air with snatches of song, their shrill notes answered ever and anon by the fierce growl of some wan- dering quadruped. Unmindfal of the beauties of the scene, in the deeper forest prowl the puma and the jaguar, while along the edges of the chaparral the fpunt wolf skulks, or on the open plain lurks ts cowardly kindred, the coyote. Bat suddenly a change comes over the scene. The night bird’s song is broken; the puma : crouches | low in his covert, and the sneaking coyote beats a hasty retreat. The dull hoof strokes of a horse, half-mufiled by the prairie grass, break the death-like si- lence. ' Then the beasts of prey and the creatures of the air see a wild steed, white as the driven > spow, come swiftly forward. _-» Can there be anything in that clean-limbed ~ symmetrical form to alarm them? _ Though they may never have seen a more _ perfect figure, yet this noblest of quadrupeds is a familiar object. Over the same domain with them does he roam at will in all the glory of his native freedom. Then why the puma’s second growl? Why does the coyote seek a greater distance? Ha! there is a dark object on the white steed’s bare back! It is a man’s form! Ye powers! see the position he maintains. Unlike a natural rider, he lies at full length on the flying steed’s back. As far as can be seen pct a cord or thong _ holds him there. Bat we forget this in the discovery of a eater mystery. siete figure is imperfect. There is something ing! The crouching beasts have discovered this. | The head 1s missing! Otherwise the form is perfect. Can the miss- ng part be concealed beneath that blanket? t seems impossible. lowes we have only a swift glance at the range rider. _ Like the flash of a meteor his white steed comes and goes. White siaeant unhampered by a bit, od subject to his own free will, rushes over the moonlit plain, heading westward. : Then a long line of growth, followicg the n of a stream, looms into view. ittle later the white steed reaches its shad- ows, and then the river. Plunging into the tide, and pausing a minute to drink of the flood, it wades through the stream and springs up the farther bank. rlaeag long enough to shake the water from its ripping sides, the creature resumes its wild flight, only to be brought at bay the next moment. The gleam of a camp-fire suddenly bursts upon its vision, and a human voice checks its headlong course. « Good heavens, boys, look there!” The speaker has sp mUDE, from the earth, rous- ed from sleep by the steed’s approach, and now looks upon the nocturnal visitor with wonder. Giving a shrill snort, the creature sniffs the air and defiantly faces him; standing less than three rods distant. In an instant the man is reinforced by five companions, who spring from their blankets to ma [Join him, “ What is it, Joe—Injuns?” asks the nearest. Tn reply the first points at the strange rider. **Ghost of Mad Walker!” exclaimed one of the others, ‘‘it is the Headless Mazeppa!” ‘The same horse we saw on Wilder Plain yesterday,” added a fourth. ‘‘ Don’t scare him, Joe, and mebbe we can capture the creature.” “ Kaptur the whirlwind!” retorted the other. ‘I stood on Wilder Plain yesterday and see’d the critter go a league in three minnits if it went a rod. Ha, it is goin’!” The white steed is indeed moving away— starting slowly as if challenging pursuit. “lds give two hundred dollars to have that hoss!” exclaimed he who had spoken first. **Come, boys, let’s follerand kapter the animal.” “Don’t do it,” warns one who had not spoken before. ‘It is death to foller the white hoss!” ‘*Bah! I’m not afraid. Mazeppa or no Ma- zeppa, death or no death, who dares to go with me? See, the creetur’ is goin’ fast.” *‘T am with you, Wilkes Gray,” responds one. Lies. **Come along, then; Jim, or we shall be too late.” The Rangers, for snch these half-jozen in- trepid men are, have their horses tethered near at hand, and shortly Wilkes Gray and his companion are in the saddle. By this time the white steed is well out on the plain. ¥ Don’ t go, Wilkes,” cries one, the leader of the Rangers. “It is a death trail to the man who follows the Headless Mazeppa.” With a light laugh the reckless scout plies the spurs to his fleet-footed horse, and with his companion beside him he dashes away, *« Look for us back afore morning,” he cries, with a wave of the hand. In silence the four watch their departure un- til they vanish in the distance. “*Poor boys!” exclaimed the Ranger 2 ‘«mebbe we ought to foller’em. But found ita chap’s 's duty to look arter hi: ’Sides, our horses need more rest if "8 get ato S2 the fort to-morrer.” ao ~s The speaker was a well-known character ¢ ‘ the south-western border and an geni with all. Though young in years, he was old in ther > perience of border warfare. In turn hunter, guide, scout and rangdr was ‘at home” in all parts of the great $0) west. ee 2 Strong in limb, lithe in form, with that could look at the mid-day sun flinching, and a constitution that se defy fatigue, he had become the hero hair-breadth escapes, perilous trails, adventures. } ‘I + e His genial, good-looking countenance was hailed with delight by a large circle of tr nis and companions. ee ;. a - = ES > ne His name had been lost in the soubtig 7 bestowed upon him. Anions the red men he was known as st Winged Trailer,” the ** Flying Shot,” e Hardly less fanciful his companions had 5 named him “ Jack o’ the Plains.” Though the leading spirit of the littl he was the youngest of the Rang: were hardy, gallant plains and mountgin m who had faced death too often to show | the white feather, now that the frosts of autumn had plentifully sprinkled their da locks with silver-flakes. at First in size and height -stood Paul | Bs Wort—‘‘ Grizzly Van "—six feet six in in his moccasins, with a frame of. equal propor=— tion, and strength of a mountain lion. Dia Side by side with him, as far as feet | and | inches were concerned, stood Joseph Gari **Longfoot Joe”—with ajform as straig) wiry as the hickory wiping stick to his ne failing rifle. He had been. the companion Deaf Smith for Many years, and was note being the fleetest ranner on the Texan bor Last in inches, but certainly second in gm respect as regards bravery or skill in wo craft, was Daniel Dones—‘* the White Fo woo had passed his earlier life among the Co- manches, to escape at last, that he might s arelentless war against them in retw slaying the last of his kindred. Swamp Wilkes and English Jim, howSall trail of the Headless Mazeppa, were not bel the others in those qualities needed to bec a thorough Texan Ranger. With this brief description of our hardy Ii tle band, happen what may, we ones not loo for unworthy deeds. 2 Alive to the perils and hardsbips? of t life, theirs was no common part te ac! to such men Texas owes a debt she can, pay. fy CHAPTER IL ace ‘Ou, they'll be back soon, ta fort tide,” declared Van. ie
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JACK O’ THE PLAINS. “TL hone so, but I ain’t so tarnal sure,” said mgfoot Joe, with a dubious shake of his : ‘They do tell mighty queer stories 0’ at speerit steed and Headless Mazeppa.” *“And they are bilin’ hot, too!” exclaimed Jack 0’ the Plains. ‘‘ Me and Big Lige met the _gritter on our way to Oak Ranch t’other day, $nd after hailing the chap I up with my old iron = let her speak. But great turnle-bugs! I Tidn’t scatch the critter, let alone stoppin’ it.” 7 “Little wonder,” added White Fox. ‘The et was neverrun to crimson a hair on its spotless form.” **Lead won’t, ennyway,” answered Jack. “‘Mebbe silver would.” ** But say, Jack, ain’t the chap on the white - hoss an old chum of yours?” asked Joe. ea ‘Burnt smoke! that’s wot puts the blinders ~-onme. He and I hev had menny a long trail _ together, and menny’s the night we've corraled Sort winkers under the same blanket. Eas. “He was as true a chum as ever looked ©) through hind sights, and blame me fer a dig- oF _ ger Squaw ef I didn’t hev to throw dust in my ' peepers to keep the boys from thinkin’ I war Squeamish when they said he had gone under. - _ **He was a proper lad, but I’m afeerd sum- _ thin’ went wrong with him. But Wentworth saw him fall by a Comanche bullet and helped to earth him; but dead men don’t cavort round _ like that less sumthin’s twisted.” _ ** But he never rode a white hoss,” said Van. Wary onct. He rode a blood bay—the to mine.” €sso,” supplemented Longfoot Joe, ‘‘ and hite hoss has been seen on the perayer for 1 two summers. Ns Ryo: ~ I member me and Tom Bills followed the eetur nine days last season, bound to kapter it; but, Lor’ sakes, we mought es well hey tried O trap a streak o’ lightning. “It led us way up north ‘mong the howling Ss; then it took a turn t’other way. Sum- s it was afore us and sumtimes abint us! Bimeby we thought we hed cornered the ur sure. Ye see, we war way up to Phan- Hill and had driven it in ’mong the cliffs rop-offs, so that all’scape was stopped, On whar we stood. [he creetur’s mine!’ cried Tom, startin’ rd. ’ ‘0 more yourn than mine,’ I said. 0 be square we decided to pull sticks, best N'three, the longest havin’ the hoss. Wal, may I be whipped by a Greaser ef }we got through that tarnal hoss didn’t that glare rock and spin off like a top on 3! £7 ‘Tom and I kem back feelin’ worse than two “rabbits that had lost their ears, : , ou ek, burnt smoke! but you kem out a _ sight slicker’n Mexican Matt and Jake Rey- ard did,” declared Jack o’ the Plains. ; _** They started out to kapter the white hoss, Me xican Matt vowing that he'd lasso: the crit- _ ter or dance a lead in Satan’s tan-pit. ' **Tt sayors a heap asif he did both. Least- ways, he roped the wild hoss and got roped Hs = “Somehow he got tangled up in the line. "> He was thrown from his saddle and his hoss got nway, but he war dragged on the perayer “Wil thar warn’t ’nough of him to fill a buzzard’s tooth.” /*<*And what ‘came o’ Jake?” asked White Eo Ask Van!" a * He war found on the perayer, stone dead,” ied that worthy, in an awe-inspiring tone. us they continued telling wild-and strange les of the mysterions steed, while they anx- bsly watched and waited for the return of ir companions. fat they looked and waited in vain, until at St their conversation ceased, and they gazed On each other with dread forebodings. last, as the gray light of morning began ‘to show in the eastern horizon, Jack said: _ “Boys, this won't do |for us. Mebbe Wilkes and Jim need us. Let’s follow ’em.” ; = “1m with ye,”,declared Grizzly Van, quick- Joe. am I,” said ‘ ’ White Fox had already started toward his horse. A minute later the four were riding away from the growth upon the trail of their miss- ing companions. As the light increased they scanned the sur- rounding prairie with eager gaze, but no living thing met their vision. The rising sun had ushered in another day when they paused. ‘It’s no use to goon,” said White Fox, look- ing back with anxious gaze. ** Let’s toe it a little longer,” answered Jack o’ the Plains. “Burnt smoke! I see something on the perayer!” : His sharp yision had caught sight of a dark object lying on the plains. Riding forward with bated breath, the rangers soon distinguished a human form stretched at full length upon the earth. A minute later a single exclamation left the lips of all: “Tt’s Jim!” Then, as they reached the fatal spot, Jack sprang to the ground and knelt beside the motionless figure. ‘Tg he dead?” asked Van, more to break the silence than-aught else, for the pallid face told its own story. : “Dead,” repeated Jack, slowly; ‘‘dead as the pecan that fell last year.” Ay, English Jim was indeed no more of earth. But what mystified his friend most was the singular fact that his body bore no signs of violence. \ ts He lay as if he had fallen upon the prairie asleep. ‘“No more than I expected,” declared Van. “Nor I,” said Dones. ‘But whar is his horse?” asked Joe. ‘Half way to the settlement by this time,” replied Jack. “And the quicker we head that way the better,” averred White Fox. “But we'll give poor Jim a funeral first,” af- firmed Jack _o” the Plains. ‘*Then thar’s Wilkes. Mebbe we ought to look arter him a bit.” ‘Let him go,” exclaimed White Fox. ‘He “We war told better.” ‘That ain’t for us to say,” said Jack. Come, lend a hand, all run blind sometimes. and we'll fix Jim so the buzzards won't pester | Proper sight like an old pard of mine.” him.” Willingly the others gave their assistance, and a little later a mound of fresh earth mark- a pe Spot where English Jim had met his a 7 s ‘* Where now—the settlement?” asked White Fox, anxious to turn back. **On to the rescue of Wilkes,” cried Jack, leaping upon the back of his blood bay. “ AndI am with you,” exclaimed Van. _“Reckon old Longfoot never back on a friend,” said Joe, Spurring his horse after the others. é If White Fox desired to turn back he was ashamed to do so, and he, too, sped after Jack o’ the Plains, who was urging his fleet-footed bay on to its utmost. With his Jong, tawny hair streaming out be- hind him, and his clear, blue syes piercing the distance before him, the intrepid ranger led the way, going faster and faster, until the light feet of the noble bay scarcely bent the wild flowers growing on the lea! He was soon leaving his companions! ‘‘Hyar!” cried Van, ‘‘ef ye want our com- pany ye must put on the brakes a leetle.” Slackening the wild gait of his steed some- what, Jack said: : ‘“’Scuse me, boys, but I got to thinking about Wilkes. I’m afraid we shall be too late!” _ Half an hour later they came in sight of a long line of growth. Riding toward it, they soon discovered the figure of a horseman outlined near its edge. ‘“‘Mebbe its Wilkes,” cried Jack, who was still ahead. ‘« Jesso,” answered Van; ‘but look further down. As I live, thar is the Headless Ma- zeppa!” CHAPTER III. THE others saw, with a look of alarm, the white steed and its strange rider. ‘* We'll ride up to the other chap first,” said Jack, leading the way in that direction. ; They soon saw, to their disappointment, that the horseman was not Wilkes Gray. He was a younger man—not more than two or three-and-twenty. He was of medium size, well-proportioned and good-looking. - -His dark-brown hair was cut quite short, and his mustache carefully trimmed. He wore a stout, dark-gray jacket, and un- mentionables ‘of the same material, while he had on a pair of boots with fancy tops. : From a stout, leathern belt protruded the butts of a pair of revolvers, and in his hands he held somewhat gingerly—a fancy-looking, sil- ver-mounted, double-barreled rifle. His hands were white and soft -as a woman’s, while his face lacked the bronzed hue of one who had lived an out-of-door life. _ His horse was a noble-looking quadruped which promised both speed and endurance. All this the rangers saw at a glance, and ~ Grizzly Van exclaimed under his breath: “Great Taylor! a greeny right from his: marm’s apron strings.” ‘*Good-morning, gentlemen,” greeted the stranger, as the surprised plainsmen came within speaking distance. “I am glad to meet you. I was feeling lonesome and uncom- fortable after a night in the woods.” es “«Mornin’, younker,” returned all but Jack, who gazed upon the young man in silence. **Lone, younker?” “Yes. Istarted to go to Bowman’s Sprin }and have lost my way. Perhaps you can di- rect me to the place.” : “T reckon as we hail from thar,” replied Van. ‘*Mebbe ye are from the States?” : ‘Yes; my name is Roman Carson, and E am from Mississippi.” = ¥ Jack uttered an involuntary cry as the other — gave his name. ‘‘Ashes and smoke!” he ejaculated, ‘it’s queer. You look a heap like him!” . “Like whom?” asked the young Mississippi an, catching the words. 4 ‘?Scuse me,” replied the Ranger chief. ‘TI was spoking to myself, though ;you do look a ‘But mebbe jou can tellus of a chap has — been this way. We are looking for a lost friend.” : It was the stranger’s turn to show surprise. ‘* Did he ride a black horse with white feet?” ** True as preaching.” ‘© And wore a wolf-skin cap?” “Every time.” “Then he rode by this morning, his horse going at the top of its speed, and he lying for- ward upon its withers with his arms around its neck.” : The rangers gazed upon each other in amaze- ment. “Tt must have been Wilkes.” ‘*But,” continued Carson, ‘I have just seen the strangest sight—a milk-white steed with the headless body of a man upon its bare back,” “The Headless Mazeppa. Thar he is—no, it’s gone!” The white steed had disappeared from view. ; ‘“We mustn’t dally here,” cried Jack o'the Plains, ‘‘ if we would rescue poor Wilkes, Will you go with us, younker?” **T can’t do any better.” : “Then lead the way to where you seed our friend, riding like mad.” : Without further delay the cavalcade started forward. ; es Five minutes later Carson showed the ran- gers where he had seen Wilkes Gray. Half a mile from the place they found a dead horse. It was the animal once ridden by En- glish Jim. ; Here was more mystery. . “It must be that Wilkes has'started for the settlement,” said White Fox. Before the others could reply the Headless Mazeppa could be seen just leaving the growth, now Sehind them. :
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4 4‘ The white horse is goin’ for its old stampin’ ground,” said Longfoot Joe. ‘‘Mebbe; but I'm all snarled up!” declared Jack. ‘‘ This chap hyur looks enough like my old chum to be him, .Can’t you see it, boys?” “Great guns! he does, and I didn’t see it afore,” exclaimed Van. «* An’ his name’s the same,” added Joe. Young Carson looked surprised. . + T¢ can’t be you have seen my brother?” he eried. ‘‘His name is Hubert Carson.” +« Ashes and smoke! you have corraled him the first throw.” Failing to comprehend the words, the young man caught him by the arm, crying, excitedly: ‘Ts it possible you know my brother? Where is he?” +*Jess undo that paw, younker. You are a powerful sight-on gripping—worse nor a erayer dog.” © . «But you have not-told me of Hubert Car- -3on—my sbrother.” ‘* All Jeause you don’t give me a fair show. I know’d a chap by that handle onct, though che war generally singled outas Brazos Bert.” +4 You knew him once. Is—is he dead now?” -4*-Yeg—the Comanches rabbed-—” ~& Dead—my brother dead? Ob, God! am I too late?” andthe speaker reeled to and fro, as if he would fall from his seat. The others looked on in wonder. _ #*You’pear to feel all strung into capers,” said Jack o’ the Plains. ‘ But ifIdo say it— and he war my chum, lioss and blauket—Brazos Bert war as true a pardas ever looked through hind-sights. I'll lay my powder-iron, too, that he turned-up his toes like a man!” “And I must go back to tell them he is dead? Ihave hoped in yain. But before I go you must show me his grave. Will you do me.) Chat?” > . Jack o’ the Plains looked perplexed. _ Pardon me,” cried Carson—‘‘let me tell you why I have come here, and then you will * not wonder. Will you listen?” _ “Yes. Chip in; younker,; only while you chin im we might as well be poking long toward the m’er. * ‘As they rode slowly on their way Roman Car- ) s80n told the following singular story: ~~ © “ AsI have told you, I come from Mississip- "pi. My brother Hubert is ten years older than > fam, and as he left home over fifteen years "ago, you may judge that I have but an indis- tinct recollection of him. When father’s pas- sion is aroused he is a very violent man, and I think my brother must have inherited some- thing of his nature, for, as young as he was then, he and father had a fearful quarrel. From words they came to blows, when mother rushed forward to separate them, to receive a blow from Hubert which felled her senseless. Of course brother had not intended to strike her, and as she lay dead, as all supposed, he fled, wild with grief, and with father’s curse ringing in his ears. That was a terrible time; but mother soon recovered, though to this day Hu- bert has not beén'seen. You may judge some- thing of the grief arising from his disappear- ance and the sorrow that rests upon the old home. Never a word was heard from Hubert maotil a short time ago a stranger coming from this region said he had seen a man by that mame. Father and mother would not rest un- ‘ od I started in quest of the long-lost one. They are now quite aged, and you may imagine somewhat their anxiety. For their sakes, above all others, I pray I may find brother alive and well.” Jack o’ the Plains shook his head. ** God pity them if he is dead.” ~* And God only knows,” declared the ranger chief. “Then you do not know that he is dead?” cried the other ly. ** Younker,” said Jack, slowly, ‘* all thar was earthly of Hubert Carson is borne on the back of that white hoss. Whether living or dead I cannot tell you.” CHAPTER IV. Wuenx at last Roman Carson spoke, he Said: «*Ok, that is worse than I dared to think. ’ JACK O° THE PLAINS. But he must be rescued. I willstart at once to save him.” ‘‘Younker, don’t fire your gun afore you take aim. Better men than you have tried in vain to kapter that hoss. Our dead pard and the one missing war trying to do that same thing. It is a dead trail to follow that white hoss, and every chap who has tried it has proved it so.” “Your words do not frighten me. All thatl ask is: are you sure it is my brother?” ** As sure ag I sit on this hoss.” «“‘Then only death can stop me from going. I must know the worst, and Knowing it, do my duty.” The others heard his words with amazement. Then Jack o’ the Plains exclaimed, impetu- ously: “Boy, you are true grit. Jam going with youl” ° ; His companions were more surprised than ever. «Ye are mad, Jack!” exclaimed White Fox. ‘*Mebbe; but the more I think on’t the more detarmined Iam to go. Brazos Bert war too true a pard to desert when he needs help. ’Sides, I shall be company for the younker.” “Comp’ny on the long trail,” said Van, grimly. J ‘*Wal, tell ‘em down to the Springs that Jack o’ the Plains war game to the last. Gin us your paws, old boys.” «Tt looks meaner nor a Greaser,” said Van, trembling visibly, as he grasped his com- panion’s hand. ‘But don’t go, Jack. Ye'll never kem back.” ‘«More'n likely; but it'll be all the same to the rest of the world, and who’s thar to cry their eyes out if this child does happen to turr his toes up? Bat hold on, old hosses, I have a favor to ask. Packed away in my possibles are a few gim-cracks and things that might do the most good to the ones I want to have ’em, wagh! “‘Younker, mébbe you can sling paper words round slick, and mebbe you have the fixin’s handy. “Jack “Shelby will make his will, and then he is with you hoss and gun.” Understanding what was wanted, Roman produced a slip of soiled paper—the best he had—and the stub of a pencil. “ Ready,” said Jack; ‘* now ding it down just as I tell you. *«), Jack o’ the Plains, full of sense as a gua with hind sights, ’bout to set my floating sticks on the war trail of the white hoss Mazeppa, that savors a heap of dead men, do call this my last will and testament. Have you got that?” ‘*Good.” Then he gave a brief account of his personal property and the disposition he wish- ed made of it in case he should fail to return from his present hazardous undertaking. “Thar,” he said in conclusion, ‘‘ I must make my sign and then it'll go slick.” Seizing the pencil, he quickly ‘scrawled his initials upon the paper. ak. “‘Hyur, Van, I gin this into your keeping; and remember, Jack Shelby never turned his back to friend or foe. Good-bye.” Nothing further was said as the rangers wrung their companion’s hand, and he turned his bay toward the north. . ‘Poller me, younker,” and the twain rode swiftly away. Jack kept his gaze straight ahead, out Ro- man, looking back after they had gone nearly a mile, saw the three rangers where they had left them, evidently watching them out of _| sight. Young Carson’s mind was filled with wild, vague forebodings, but as his new-found friend seemed little disposed to talk, he remained si- lent. They must have ridden fully two hours, when, as they reached a small patch of growth, Jack drew rein. “It’s agin hoss nature to hold out forevez,” he said, ‘so we'll gin our animals a little breathing spell.” “ Strange we have not seen the white horse since we started,” said Roman. “Not a bit strange, younker. It must have toed it right smart for its old stamping ground that is a long way north. We shall soon strike the ter league pass, and if we can’t find = ; critter’s trail thar we might as well tute back.” ? Ht : After a two hours’ halt they resumed’ the journey. 4 * About the middle of the afternoon tt country began to show a different aspect. — Before them, as if the fertile plain had sue denly been transformed into a barren waste, 1a) as far as the eye could reach a broken, treeles expanse unrelieved by a single redeeming _ (es ; ture. ‘ “It is the Red Lands,” said Jack, as the oY paused on the bank ofasmall stream which seemed the dividing line between the rich prairie and the rugged desert. a A narrow belt of growth skirted the shallow river on the first side, and on the other thé an- productive sand reached to the water’s edge,” The ranger rode down to the stream lence, and along its margin for some dis he slowly advanced, watching closely the é while Roman waited behind. : Jack o’ the Plains soon disappeared, and was several minutes before he returned. Hi countenance bore a look of disappointment. ‘‘We are throwed from our feet,” he ‘*The critter ain’t come this way.” ‘« Perhaps it has gone further south.” ‘“‘Then its along way thar. You see, ; pass is the only chance to get to the North Di- — vide without going along distance south or ncrth. I thought sure the critter’d come this” way.” +29 *+But we shall find it on the other side.” ‘‘Mebbe. But ashes and smoke, younker, i ne ‘ are ten leagues thar, and no fodder on they You see that this pass is less than hi mile wide all the way, with an impassible off on the right, and a drop-off on the le ‘Tn all of the thirty miles thar isn’t a bush or blade of grass, nor a drop of wa Roman listened with dismay. ‘‘Then what shall we do? Z «Only one thing, old coon. We have. too far to turn back, and it’s too latein to enter the pass, so we'll ride up the piece and stop thar till morning. © horses will be ready to make Ten Lesa and we'll come out on the other § What do you say?” h “T leave it with you, You kaow bes ‘‘Come this way, tnen,” and he rode growth, followed by Roman. Half a mile above where the stream ms & slight curve Jack declared was a good placego camp, and accordingly they dismounted, : ing their horses to eat their fill of the gra * “‘Reckon I shall have to shoot a b ; something,” declared the ranger, ** for my : of dried meat is ’bout gone, and we may 0 it more by’m by. You keep a sharp lookous hyur and ['ll stir round a little.” : With the words Jack went still farther up stream in quest of game. ‘ Roman grew uneasy when he had been alone ~ awhile, so he went back from the stream to edge of the growth, when he gazed upon boundless expanse of prairie. me How grand and lonely it seemed to him He EOD its unbroken surface without a of life. But he was suddenly aroused from his med tations by the sharp spang of a rifle. a : CHAPTER V. Tue rifle report came from above him, Roman felt certain that Jack had found g : He was startled the next minute by the ho strokes of a horse rapidly approaching. mm He sprang back into the deeper cover of t growth, expecting to see a body of foes down upon him. There seemed to be but one horse, ho and to his surprise a riderless animal bo 3 (sa nD ' ' ast. , The horse bore a saddle and all the trappiig as if just freed of its rider. : yt ““Jack has shot some one!” flashed throw his mind. + The steed, after egos past him, & down the edge of the gTowth until it wheel enter the timber and sweep on toward the League Pass. At that moment he wass {
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Ee) - “by feeling a hand Jaid heavily on his shoulder, oe sud turning he saw Jack o’ the Plains beside es m. i : é HF ¥ srpribed, younker?” asked the ranger with 5 ; ‘smile. Fas. out here.” ifteen minutes later he returned, saying that ie horse had gone on toward the North Divide ‘the way of the Ten League Pass. _Tethering their animals near at hand, the ; spread their blankets under a pecan-tree SAP atory to making ‘‘a night of it.” ores ‘ot considering it safe for both to sleep at pnes; Roman took his turn first at watching, while Jack rolled the blanket about him and oon fell asleep. - __Acouple of hours must have pgssed, and the ’ watcher was nodding drowsily, when a low, "sweet voice, as of some one singing, was borne to } ears. e Tn an instant he was wide awake, and glanc- wildly around, his gaze became fixed upon _ an unexpected scene. ian | Upon the utmost crest of the massive cliff be- re him, outlined in the weird, semi-darkness with striking effect, was a woman’s figure, her ig flowing hair floating out upon the gentle breeze, and her hands upraised as if-in ‘supplication. ; _ Roman gazed upon her entranced. It was ‘not hght enough for him to see her features __ distinetly, but the white face turned toward | was evidently that of a maiden of great E a i > of again wafted to his ears it seemed the sweetest _’ he had ever heard. ‘This time the song was loud enough to _ waken Jack, who started to his feet. _ Roman turned for a moment, saying: ~ **Look! did you ever see so lovelya sight?” When his gaze again sought the cliff the fair eing had vanished. : ; _**Did you see a purty gal, old _hoss?” asked ck, calmly... ; “ the loveliest I ever saw. Whocan she __~ Hiscompanion gave a light laugh, and then ~ exclaimed: ee Ashes and smoke! it’s no more thanI ex- Deu! 4 " . “What? Who was that beau——” Are you crazy, boy? But I forgot you were Stranger in these parts. That gal you seed as the Angel of the Red Land. But her ’pear- < to us is a sure sign that we are going to ve rough and tumble times. If you want to oze go ahead. Ishan’t put down a winker n to-night.” _ **Bat you have not told me of that girl. Do know her? Is——” “ Krow her, younker? Did you ever spoke to _ the ghost of your gran’-daddy? She's a A spook. Some years ago a chap crossing perayer hyur about with his family got bed out and all his folks. Ever since the it of his darter has haunted the Red g 7? R “Roman listened with amazement. ;. Ob, you needn’t look that way. It am a ‘s'‘Pact or not, Iam going up where she is.” + Wal, go ‘long, youn er,” replied Jack, a : Roman quickly saw the impossibility? of bis intentions, as no one could gain a foothold on the side of the smooth, precipitous height. ‘‘In mercy’s name, Jack Shelby, what does it mean? That woman was no ghost.” ‘« Mebbe ye think so, but if ye were ’quainted round hyur mebbe you wouldn’t. She’s a live spook.” Jack seemed in earnest, and nothing could change him. ‘*Ts there no way to get up there?” “Yes, by going round.” * How far is that?” «‘Sorty miles or so.” Roman said no more. ««Younker, itis no use to talk any more about it. If you want to catch that white hoss jess take your nap so wecan start arly in the morn- ing.” Though he said nothing further, Roman’s mind was filled with wild conjectures. - A litule before sunrise the next morning they were ready to resume their journey, and vault- ing into the saddle, they rode down to the en- trance to the pass. Jack paused near the bank with a low ex- clamation of joy. ‘‘Look thar!” he cried. ‘‘The white hoss has gone-along in the night. The critter is ahead of us.” Fresh hoof-prints were indeed plainly seen, and the steed had crossed the stream. “Hooray!” exclaimed Shelby. ‘‘ Foller me, but look out for your top-knot!” As they dashed out of the water and came up on the western bank they paused long enough for their horses to shake their dripping forms, when Jack pointed ahead with a look of amazement. Well he might be surprised, for a strange rsight met their gaze. Ahead, saspended, as it seemed, in mid-air was the form of a horse! It was rendered more unnatural by its posi- tion—-heels up and head down—an inverted steed! It was defined plainly enough for them tosee a man’s form lying horizontally under its back! Nothing further was needed to prove to them that it represented the Headless Mazeppa. Roman was the first to speak. As Jt must be a mirage, caused by the rising sun.’ ‘*Great smoke! it am queer. The signs are all agin us!” exclaimed Jack o’ the Plains, watching the strange scene with intense inter- est. CHAPTER VI. THE strange apparition began soon to disap- pear, and in a few minutes it had vanished. Jack drew a breath of relief. Though brave to a fault, the ranger, like the majority of his class, was superstitious, and anything that seemed supernatural gave him fears nothing else could arouse. «Wal, younker, we must go on. It wor’t do to turn back now. No, it shan’t be said that Jack Shelby was a coward, though’ he knows he is going on his death trail. me on; we are on the right track, and we must foller it through.” With the words he started forward, closely followed by his companion. - We need not dwell upon the details of that lonely journey, though nothing wilder or mcre tedious could be imagined. The trail did not follow a direct course, but was a succession of zig-zags, ever walled in upon the right with an insurmountable height of rock, and on the left a continuous precipice bounded the way, while in that direction, as far as the vision could reach, extended a wild, broken waste covered in places by a dead growth of oaks and smaller trees. From half a mile in width, where it left the Bren the pass soon narrowed to twenty-five rods, The thin layer of earth which covered av places the rocky bottom had yielded a stunted growth, which, however, had long since died, giving a still more desolate appearance to the Scene. Huge bowlders were scattered here and there, at some places nearly stopping all pas- sage. . ¥ : It is enough to imagine’a ride of thirty miles through such a country without having to experience it. The horses of our adventurers were equal to the task, and the sun was less than two hours high when Jack reined up, saying: ‘“Wal, boy, we are half way through. Ain’t —hark! I hear some one coming.” The sound of an approaching horse grew rapidly plainer, and before Roman could speak the animal came into sight. It was Brazos Bert’s blood bay, alone ang riderless. ‘Smoke and ashes!” ejaculated Jack. ‘«Hyur, Redbird, kem byur,” he added. At the sound of his voice the steed gave a glad whinny of recognition and approached im. **D'ye see that, Rome, my boy?” asked Jack, as he patted the noble creature’s head and neck. ‘‘He knows me. See how glad he is to meet Wingfoot. Itell vou thar ain’t such a pair—whew! another s’prise is comin!” The hoof-strokes of another horse were heard swiftly advancing. TS a Roman looked up with wonder, and Jack 0” the Plains raised his rifle. ox pte The suspense was quickly broken by the ap- pearance of a new actor on the scene. The new-comer was a woman! waneeai? At sight of them, for; in’turning the angle of the pathway, she had comé abruptly upon the scene, she reined up her horse with an inyolan- tary cry. ; , Roman was dazzled by the beauteous vision she presented, while Jack seemed equally sur~ prised, though from a diflerent:cause. ~ “Tis the Angel of the et Lands!” ejacu- lated Shelby. 1 “The same beautiful beiggsl saw last night?” exclaimed Roman. — : Unheeding their looks and speeches, the fai equestrienne advanced to their sides. sd She could not have seen more than eijgh summers, and was as perfeet a model of bea as the artist could crave. Her form was faultless, and her feature regular as a goddess of beauty. Herskin, 1 in the tint of good health and pure air, wi softly touched with the hue of the rose, giv increased loveliness to her radiant countenan while a waving mass of golden hair fell to her waist in charming negligence. “ae She looked like a veritable forest princess clad in her half-civilized garb, and riding a clean-limbed Indian pony. «White men,” she said in a clear, sweet tone ere they could speak, “‘I thought you would come this way, and I have ridden to warn you of danger. You must turn back at once. Tiger Heart, the Comanche’s mad chief, is coming with lots and lots of warriors!” **Coming this way?” asked Jack. “ Yes—so! they come fast—fast as the wind! See, I ride my Zip till he no want to go furder. [ come long way tell yer.” Here was a dilemma. As the girl finished her excited speech, she looked from one to the other in anxious sus- pense. ““You go?” she asked. “How many redskins has old Tiger with him?” ‘Lots and lots! more’n that, and that, and that, and that!” she replied, holding up both hands with separated fingers each time she © uttered ‘‘and that.” “They are on the war-trail. They be here ~ soon!” 3 Jack o* the Plains had ‘‘ taken in the sitna- tion.” Ifthe Comanches were coming in the — number told by the girl, it would seem like © madness to meet them in an open fight. But — his reply seemed to ignore the startling fact. He spoke calmly: «« Jack Shelby was never known to double on his trail. Wagh! my pard can do as he chooses, but I am not going to turn back.” «But they come sure! They rab yer out!” and the maiden grew more excited. ‘Don’t borrer any skulps on our count;
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ii ee ne ee ee eee Et Ses Sor rats oat 6 — ee oe I hev a string full of fun! Hyur, younker, d'ye want to go back or stay with me?” “JT am with you if I only know what is wanted.” . “ Sho! you see em bowlders thar? Chance enough for us to hide while the varmints trot past. Understand?" * “‘Yes; but our horses?” “‘Thar’s the fanny part. Mine’ll lay flat as a ‘pan of dough. S’pose yourn won’t?” “ No, he———"! ‘‘yesso. Reckon you had better let the crit- ter go, and take Redbird hyur. It'll be a good Swap.” Jack spoke hurriedly, and Roman had no time to hesitate. Much as he hated to do so, he dismounted, and, giving his horse its freedom, he caught hold of the bridle-rein to his lost brother’s horse. é “T s’pose your critter’ll hang around and spoil our fun,” said Jack, as the intelligent brute refused to leave his master. ‘‘T'll take it with me,” said the girl. ‘I must go ahead.” ‘Hist! the Comanches are coming! Oh, white men, fly while you can!” “But what will become of you?” cried Roman. , “‘T can escape; but hide or you are lost.” The Comanches were now plainly heard, and with a look of pity the maiden urged her pony forward, leading Roman’s horse beside her. “I'd give——” began the young man, but Jack cut him short. ; StY onnkety if you valer your top-knot; follow me! : There was no time to be lost. : - Springing from his saddle, the ranger ran ; - swiftly toward the bowlders, followed by his Py horse Wingfoot. : oc... With a last lan@e.after the departing maiden - Roman. dashed forward. in the footsteps of Jack 2 8. at ~ «Down, Wingfoot; down, Redbird,” com- __-manded Shelby, as they paused behind the In an instant.the ous animals dropped ‘upon their knees, and then they lay close to the rth, still and motionless. Jack selected a good position near by, and joked to the priming of his rifle as he calmly ited the issue. “It had all come so suddenly to Roman Car- son that as yet he failed to fully comprehend their situation. ‘Keep steady nerves and do as tell you,” whispered his companion. ‘Thar come the varmints.” From their retreat they commanded a view of either end of the pathway, and for she first time in his’ life Roman looked upon the wild redmen in all the fierceness of their war-paint and feathers. He saw them advance with breathless amaze- ment, until it seemed as if the hosts of Hades had been turned loose! The Comanches slackened their speed some- what as they turned the angle in the trail and swept into view. CHAPTER VIL. JAcK 0’ THE PLAINS was calm and unmoved. “Do you see Mad Chief at their head?” he asked of his companion. Roman had seen the red leader, and was transfixed with horror. The wild, terrible appearance of the warriors was lost when compared to their chief. _ The latter was mounted upon the bare back “of a coal-biack mustang, bis raiment consisting ‘of wolf-skins with fur outside. > ° His hair, of an iron gray, fell in tangled _ masses far dewn his back,.and a flowing beard, white as snow, reached to his waist. His feat- ures, a3 well as his other peculiarities of race, _ told that he belonged not to the kin of redmen, but his skin was bronzed until it was as dark as an Ethiopian’s. A wild, unnatural light gleam- ed in his flashing eyes, and his whole bearing was wild and awe-inspiring. At thal moment he gave expression to a yell of such startling volume and distinctness that it rang out far nd wide, fairly chilling the blood in young “JACK O' THE PLAINS.» Carson’s veins. Even Jack o’ the Plains, used to the war-whoop of the savage, started. Strik- | d ing his horsea smart blow, the Mad Chief dasb- ed furiously on past the hiding whites, followed by his fiendish band, numbering fully half a hundred. Roman began to breathe easier as he saw them passing. As the foremost reached the next angle in their course, however, the en- tire horde came to a sudden halt. Then a startling cry rang on the air, for one the fifty riders wheeled about. “They are coming back!” hissed Jack. The Mad Chief was indeed beating a retreat. An instant later a white horse came into sight. It was the Headless Mazeppa! Undaunted by the horde blocking its way, the strange steed, with a shrill neigh, advanced at a swifter pace. ; There was no need of its turning aside, for with cries of terror the savages rushed from the pathway. Unfortunately for the hiding twain, the Comanches dashed toward them, when the quick eye of Jack Shelby saw that discovery was certain. “We are in for it now!” he exclaimed. “Quick! up—into the saddle and follow me!” Jack sprang to his feet. “Up, Wingfoot, Redbird!” he cried, and be- fore Roman could realize the situation, the in- trepid ranger was in the saddle. Wild yells rang from the amazed redmen. Had Jack been alone he might have escaped before they recovered from their surprise. * But Roman Carson was not far behind. As Redbird leaped up he gaiued his feet, and the next moment he sprang upon the steed’s ack. ‘‘Now!” thundered Jack, ‘‘it’s a ride for life. Show the red devils no quarter!” Sending the contents of his rifle into their midst, he rode wildly forward, turning to the right nor left, but straight for the trail ahead. Rearing, plunging furiously, his gallant bay sunk more than one redskin beneath its feet. His rifle empty, Jack drew his revolvers, eeests the way before- him with his deadly shots. , Roman followed in the path he made. The Mad Chief rushed to the fight with yells that nerved his warriors to redoubted vigor. Twice was Jack nearly hurled from his horse, and he received wound after wound. Still noble Wingfoot pressed forward, and he maintained his seat. ane, with a wild whoop, he reached the trail. : At that moment three or four ,Comanches seized the bridle-rein, and, in spite of the des- perate steed’s struggles, its flight was stopped. Jack plied his spurs in vain. His horse was nearly thrown back upon its haunches. Jack himself was seized and almost pulled from the saddle. With a mighty effort he rallied. Snatching his long scalping-knife from its sheath, the bright blade flashed in the air, and as it descended he severed the bridle so that it fell from the horse’s head. ‘©On, Windfoot—on!” he yelled, striking the rowels deep into the quivering animal's sides. Freed from the clutches of the red demons, the bay sprang madly forward, and sending the dismayed assailants right and left, cleared them at a bound. **Come on, younker!” cried Jack, ashe fired Se parting shot and cleared the startled red- skins. But Roman had been less fortunate. Redbird leaped swiftly forward on the heels of its mate, while its rider imitated the example of Jack so far that he emptied his rifle into the phalanx of his foes. Then, as ;the discomfited Comanches rallied from Shelby’s attack, they hemmed in the flight of Roman, when he clubbed his tire-arm and swept them down with nervous blews. He fought bravely, desperately, but the odds were AT ley 6 In vain he urged Redbird forward. He shivered the stock of his rifle to splinters ‘looks of exultation changed to death om. ie He plowed the rowels into the sides of ii goaded horse, which, with a sbrill neigh, le ed higher than ever, and, maddened beyc endurance, actually cleared the throng. — But the struggle was dearly paid for Carried swiftly onward by the onset the crossed the trail just as Jack effected his cape. “a Wheeling with the rapidity of lightning, the horse swept after the other. 8 The sudden movement caused Roman to lose ~ his seat, and, with a frantic attempt to re. what he had lost, he was thrown to the earth. — Deafening yells came from the oe me they saw him fall, and then they rushed apo him en masse. ea ; Still defiant, Roman gained his feet just. rte half hundred shrieking demons as) d im One against fifty! : There was no quarter for the single fi m He felt that he was lost. Ae Asa cloud of bullets and arrows wh about his head he discharged his revolvers. © Then, with a ringing cry, he sprang back | escape his foes. ine In his mad haste he heeded not his In fact, only one way was open to hij Escape on either hand was cut off. ~~ Thus he bounded to the rear. ’ A few rods, and then he found himself ¢ the verge of the precipice! Further retreat was impossible! Death or capture was inevitable! The Comanches saw their advantage an tered exultant cries. ev With a hopeless glance around him realized his doom. 2 A wild thought flashed through his mina at the moment when the yelling horde felt 5 of their victim he turned with a defiant ory. & leap out over the precipice, to disappear in the depths below. ~ A ee Better death upon the rocks than cap’ the hands of such foes, : The yells of the savages died away and > GE D witnessed the headlong leap to death. J * CHAPTER YIIL is JACK 0’ THE Piatys looked back in 8¢ see Roman Carson make his fearful leap ‘*Poor boy!” he cried. : Then the yells of the amazed Com rang out wilder than ever, as the mail ho cheated of One victim, turned upon tle of urging their fleet-footed ponies after the flyin ranger. Ca). “Come on!” shouted the intrepid Shelbj waving his hand tantalizingly. ‘* Hyursaco you don’t trap!” p At that moment a horse galloped It was the gallant Redbird that b oe ceeded in clearing the savages. Sia ee ‘¢ Hooray!” exclaimed Jack, but a yolley of bullets and arrows hurtling about bis . checked further speech, and he found ¢ was in for a close run. 3 Though he had got a good start of his p suers, the crooks and turns in his com made his flight ‘doubly dangerous; aud eye time he reached one of these angles he was = brought within easy shot of hisfoes. 9 They were not slow to improve thege oppor — tunities, and with every volley they made’ air echo with their unearthly tumult. Shouts and cries were alike unsucce however, in staying the flight of the ranger. a4 ingfoot was doing his best, moment saw the distance increased & the fngitive and his pursuers. Tere > With the ten miles ahead of him, and every prospect of the race continuing that distance; Jack was too judicious a rider to keep Wing foot strained to his utmost longer than ¥ necessary. o's . Thus, as soon as he dared to do s0, heg lowed the horse to slacken his pace some". what. a The race continued a mile er so with material change, when, as he turned a ‘fa
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: . - wis JACK O’' THE PLAINS. eR ae See 5 "+ angle in the winding way, Jack found himself Shag ~ close upon the heels of the Headless Mazeppa. ~~ With a wild snort the white steed bounded wet _ forward, keeping just ahead of the ranger. ‘Sack afterward acknowledged that the pres- is “ence of this mysterious rider made him feel " more uncomfortable than the shrieking Coman- ches in hot pursuit. “He could not avoid his singular situation, however, and thus the wild race went on an- ‘other mile without any further change. Then Jack heard cries ahead of him. and to his dismay a party of mounted savages appear- _ ed in the pathway. : > They discovered him at the same time, and “their yells mingled with those of his pursuers. Jack had no time for speculation. Acting with his usual presence of mind, he resolyed upon a course as bold and reckless as his’ case was desperate. _ Giving free rein to his horse, he yelled: ~ “On, Wingfoot, on!” Understanding his master’s wish, the bay ___ sprang forward with redoubled speed. ~ ” Firm in his seat as a centaur, with a knife in either hand, Jack o’ the Plains awaited the crisis. \ The dismayed savages saw him rush upon _ “them like an arrow from its bow. _* ‘They saw, too, the white steed that turned neither to the right nor the left, but swept di- rectly upon them. A few shots were fired, but yells of terror quiv- __ "ered upon their lips. ‘Then came the shock. ; With a headlong bound that no hand could stay the Mazeppa leaped into their midst, and 3 _ then cleared them. ~ “Hooray!” cried Jack, as he swept ahead. © Then, as he dashed through the gap made by the white steed, he dealt furious blows with - either hand, performing a feat that few could - do—slaying victims right and left at the same time. : _ But the fray lasted only an instant, for the second bound of Wingfoot carried him beyond “the bailed foes. : - Ere they could rally, Redbird ran the gant- let, and again reached the side of his mate. ” Tiger Heart Witnessed with dismay the dar- ing performance of Jack o’ the Plains, when __ © yells of vengeance loud and deep went up from - his motley throng. - Reaching their discomfited allies, they found ' six lying on the earth—lifeless. '* Jack answered their howls of rage with a ' mocking laugh. ; ___*Mebbe they'll learn to let us alone, eh, _ ~ Wingfoot, me boy?” he said, patting the neck of his horse. ‘‘ And you ain’t no slouch, old Redbird. Say, old chap, come along hyur and let me ride you; so your mate may have a rest.” He made the change and put a safe distance between himself and pursuers before they ‘rallied enough to renew their chase, — __‘The white steed still kept slightly in advance of bim. , There was no material change in the race ‘after this, until et last the great plain of the » north stretched before Jack’s vision. * But the vast expanse was no new sight to him, who had traversed it from every point of the compass. : ; ~ He could still hear the Comanches in the dis- tance, bat during the last flve miles he had gained considerable upon them. : é __ “J s'pose the varmints think they're running ‘the old coon down, and that on their own soil they'll capture him slick. Reckon, me boys,” addressing his dumb companions, ‘‘ we'll show ~ Sem a trick not to their counting.” Soliloquizing thus, he reached a shallow stream that, flowing from the north, found its ‘course along the edge of the prairie, skirted on either bank by a dense growth. — ~ Riding into the water, he went down stream for a dozen rods or so, when, turning about, he ‘rode in the opposite direction, keeping in the middle of the stream. - oe His faithfal horse Wingfoot, and it will be re- * membered that he was riding Redbird nor, fol- - towed after him. He had seen the Headless Mazeppa dash out - pon the plain, to soon lose sight of him. ~~ Jack followed the stream for a mile or more, when, coming to a small tributary, he left the main current, which here made an abrupt turn to the left. After going a short distance further he halted. “Reckon, boys, you have gone far enough to be glad to stop.” Saying which he sprang to the earth, and freed the horses of their trappings. “Thar, don’t go far, old steppers, and you may have two hours for rest.” Finding a nook among the rocks, he hid the saddles, bridles, ete., when he cautiously as- cended a slight elevation of the broken land just ahead of him. From this lookout he commanded quite an extensive view of the surrounding scene. In the distance on the north he could see a considerable tract of woodland where he knew was the home of the Comanches, Ay, as he gazed upon the plain he discovered the Mad Chief and his warriors heading away toward their camping-grounds, “So you give up the trail to-day, old Tiger Heart?” said the ranger, with a broad grin. ‘* Wal, it am best foryou. Butit were a clus run for me, and the younker, poor boy! he’s gone sure. He seemed a prcperlad. I really liked him. Wagh! many’s the pard that’s gone down beside me; but it can’t be so alwus. My turn’ll come by and by, and then old Jack Shelby’ll count his coups no more.” . Speaking his thoughts thus, he continued to watch the scene for a long time, revolving in his mind plans for future action. At last he discovered a white object on the plain in the far distance. As it grew in size he recognized the white steed moving at random over the prairie. : : } “Poor Bert!” exclaimed Jack; ‘it weren't many moons ago that you and I had our big ride on this plain, and now—wal, I'll risky you from that posish, and then Ill take the trail against the Mad Chief. First Vil jest go down into the valler wheré the reds won't find me and run a silver bullet. With. that, old white hoss, I'll strike your trail, and if you don’t bite the dust, then I’ll quit the diggings!” Leaving him to carry out his intentions, we must return to learn the fate of Roman Carson. CHAPTER IX. As Roman went over the precipice he in- stinctively closed his eyes, feeling that his end was near. Down, down through the air he shot, until, witha shock that nearly deprived him of his senses, his descent was abruptly checked. He heard wild yells ringing in his ears, and his brain seemed in a whirl. He threw out his hands, but they met only empty space, ; Had he reached the bottom of the precipice? Slowly his scattered faculties came back to him, and at last he realized that he had been caught by the belt upon a shrub growing on the side of the embankment. Thus his life had been miraculously sayed, though, as he gazed up the perpendicular ascent, he saw that he had no hope of scaling the smooth surface. It seemed 4 long distance to the earth below, and he felt a chill creep over his frame as he real- ized his hopeless position. He could no longer hear the cries of the savages, and he wondered if Jack had escaped. Bruised and sore, beside suffering from several flesh wounds, his situa- tion was one of intense, agony. Yet he was powerless to relieve one atom of suffering, or in any way escape. When half an hour had tediously dragged away he began to think it would have been better for him to have been dashed upon the rocks below. Then a glad cry left his lips)as the thrice-welcome sound of a human voice was borne te his ears. Without regard to what the consequences might be he cried aloud: * Help—help!” He heard a low cry in respanse, then a voice asked: ‘* Where are you?” ‘‘Here—over the rock. Iam nearly dead.” A minute later a fair face looked down from the chff—a face he would never forget as long as ke shordd live. An exclamation of joy left 7 his lips as he recognized the maiden who had " warned Jack and himself of danger. She start- ed back with surprise, but quickly recovering herself, asked: e «* Are you much hurt?” “No, but Iam powerless to get away from here.” “Have courage a little longer ani I will save you.” She was gone a few minutes, and when she came back she had a lasso in her hand. Drop- ping one end of the thong down to him, she said: “‘Make it fast faround your body; then Zip and I will pull you up.” Roman did as he was requested, when he felt the cord straighten, and then he was raised slowly upward until he could grasp the edge of the cliff. With her assistance he was enabled to reach the level earth above, when he sank down exhausted. Kneeling beside him, she be- gan to chafe his hands and temples. How de- licious her touch seemed to him. Looking up- on her with half-closed eyes, he felt a thrill of pleasure. : ** Will you be able to ride your horse?” she asco “It won’t do for us to remain here ong.” ; ‘* Alas! fair maid, I fear my horse is far from here.” : ‘Not so, for I kept him in my charge. I did not go very far before I heard the fighting and stopped. As soon as I dared I’came back, and I have your horse with me.”, - : ; ‘How can I repay ‘you, sweet maid? You have not only saved my life, but——” “Tut, tnt, stranger, if you wish to get away and are able to ride, come. with me. We have no time to lose.” +» & With some difficulty Roman found he could walk; and once in the saddle, he suffered but — little pain, — ‘‘We can do no better than to go on toward my house, stranger,” she said, as she ae headed her pony in that direction. _ pa Se ‘*My name is Roman Carson; and pray will A 1B yeu favor me with yours?” ; “Oh, yes, Mr. Carson; father cal Dalia.” - ns ‘An odd name. . Bat is it possible you ha your home in this lonely wilderness?” é ** Not in the Red Lands; but it is on the edge of the great North Divide. You live a | way from here I s’pose?” and her. great, trous eyes were fixed on Roman. a “Yes, a long way from hese. like to live in this country?” i **Oh, no; I hate it!” and her eyes flashed. ‘«Then, if 1 may ask, why do you stay here?” “Tt is for poor father’s sake.” Roman was mystified. Here was as beauti- ful a woman as he had ever seen living in this uncivilized country, though against her wishes. Her garb was what the fashionable world call uncouth, rude, and her grammar was un- acquainted with the rules laid down byjLindley Maurray. Despite these minor defects, which somehow seemed to enchance her charms, Roman was in love. Much as he longed to know the mystery concerning her, he curbed his impatience and bided his time. That was a ride never to be forgotten by him. For the time he forgot the perils surrounding them— ay, we fear he forgot Jack—and before he knew it he was telling his. fair companion the object of his coming into that region, to findin her an ardent sympathizer. — . “‘T would like to know,” he said, as he finish- ec, ‘‘ if it were you I saw last night on the bluff overlooking the plain?” ««T was there,” she replied, simply. ‘Itisa favorite haunt of mine. You see I have a sort of secret path leading in a direct course aeross © the Red Lands, and only about one-third the distance it is by this path, But when I get there I cannot well descend to the plain, so I remain awhile and then return to my home. As you have told me so much, [ must tell you that I live all alone with my wither. The same old place has been my home as long as I can remember almost. I'd like to go away so much, but poor father won't go. I don’t think he is just right here,” and she touched her fore- . head. ‘* From what he hag said, I know that But do you e
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pe wpaa years ago, when I was a little girl, a lot of white men did him a terrible wrong which drove him up here, and all that I can say won’t make him go away.” **But how do you manage to keep clear of the Indians?” ‘Oh, father is on friendly terms with them. Yes, I must tell you that their chief, Tiger Heart, is his own brother!” Roman-could not suppress a cry of surprise at this startling information. ‘*It seems,” ‘she continued, ‘that he suffered more by the ‘white men than father did, and he = hates them so they call him mad. But he sel- ; dom comes to see us, and we get along quite 4 well. Look, if you would see the gréat North : Divide.” To his joy Roman saw that the western boun- dary of the Red Lands was only a short distance ahead. Beyond lay, further than the vision could reach, the fertile plains of the North, in- » habited only by the fierce Comanches. ‘* We will go at once to my home,” said Da- lia, ‘* though you must not be surprised if fath- er’s treatment 13 unpleasant. I think you will be the first white man he has seen for many years. Poor father! I pity him.” They soon left the trail and penetrated into the fastness of the barrenland. Roman looked in vain for Jack o' the Plains. Nothing of him or the Comanches were to be seen. Pretty soon Dalia paused and pointed ahead, saying: “There is my home, and there is father look- ing for me.” A lonely cabin was standing near the prairie. It was built in the most primitive style, and Surrounded on both sides and in the back- a Ben. by the desolate Red Lands, which af- ~ forded here a.stunted, half-lead growth. Ro- man gave the surroundings but a hasty glance, however, as his became fixed upon the tall, sadaverous form of a man standing in the open- @ which served for a doorway to the cabin. CHAPTER X. He seemed past the prime of life, though he bore his gaunt form erect, and his “hair, orn long, was but slightly tinged with gray. ed and care-worn, is right hand-an ear of corn from which he had justtaken a huze mouthful. At sight of » Roman he started with amazement, and a low, ~~ guttural exclamation left his*lips. ~~ +‘ Well, father, how have you fared since ——” - aise Whom are you bringing here, girl?” he de- ‘ manded, fiereely. ‘* A friend, father!” **A friend, Dalia? You are mistaken. We have no friends—no, not even brother Daniel is our friend! Where have you been?” “Off for a canter, father. But have you no welcome for Mr. Carson?” **He may come in. Yes, Mr. Carson, you may come in, though you are the first white man who has entered my door for fifteen years.” “Dalia, you should have known better than to have brought him here. He is our foe!” “Pardon me,” ventured Roman, “ but you misjudge me. I have only the kindliest inten- tions toward you and your daughter.” “Shah! You can’t deceive me. Bat now that you are here, pray make yoarself comfort- able.- What has brought you into this coun- try? You don’t look like the men who gener- ally come this way.” **F came in quest of a lost brother.” **A lost brother? That is queer. brother once.” “And have you never found him?” asked Roman, not knowing what to say. **Find him? No! He tarned Injan! Bat dismount and come in. You-may be hungry; if so, there is another ear of corn and a bit of cold meat. If you are thirsty, we have plenty of brook water.” Dalia had already sprung nimbly to the ground. - “Go in with father, Mr. Carson, and I will lead your horse down to the corral.” “Yes, come in, mister; don’t mind the child; I lost a JACK U she ain’t just right here,” and he touched his forehead significantly. Roman started at the words and gesture, as he remembered how similarly she had spoken. As he entered the cabin he was struck with the barrenness of its contents. Upon one side a row of pegs in the wall about a foot anda half from the floor held a layer of poles which form- ed all that was in the room for seats. On the other side of the apartment, a little higher up on the wall, and wider by a foot, was a shelf answering fora table. If we except a pile of skins 1n one corner, which evidently served for a couch, the room contained nothing further toward: the comforts of living. ‘*Look here, young man, from the Way you stare around, I [ should think you had never en- tered a gentleman’ 's house before.” ‘«Pardon me, sir, I did not mean to be rude. But don’t you find it lonely living here so far from civilization?” **Somewhat, sir, but you know we are called upon to make many sacrifices. This life best suits my poor daughter, and so I am reconciled to it. There was a time when I longed for something different, but that time is past. Pray be seat- ed, and if you are tired lie down upon those robes. You look about fagged out. Make yourself comfortable, and I will parch you some corn and broil a bit of meat.” At this juncture Dalia entered the cabin. She seemed to Roman more beautiful than ever, and the love she had kindled in his breast grew deeper. Then the dark hints thrown out by her father arose in his mind. What did he mean? What was the mystery surrounding their lives? *« Have you found no trace of your lost broth- er?” asked the old man, as if determined to keep up a conversation. ‘‘ Mercy, Dalia, what is. the matter?” and he caught her by the shoulders and began shaking her vigorously. “There, do you feel any better?” ‘* Yes—yes, father. Don’t tear me to pieces. I—I am well,” and escaping from his hold, she ran to the other side of the room. Roman looked on with surprise. He had seen nothing unusual about her appearance, save that she had suddenly grown pale and looked frightened. ** Poor child!” exclaimed her father, compas- sionately; ‘‘I fear you have taxed yourself too much. Go and lie down.” “Deed I ain’t, father-——” “‘My child,” and he spoke very firmly, ‘‘do as I have told you. You will feel better after a little sleep.” Without further remonstrance Dalia arose, and going to where a horse-skin hung upon the wall, ; pulled it aside and disappeared into an inner apartment of the cabin. “Don’t be alarmed, Mr. Carson, she will seem different after she has rested awhile. I am used to her freaks and do not mind them. But see, the meat is ready, and so is the corn. Will you not eat?” Roman was fain to accept, and ate quite heartily of the plain viands set before him, while his host looked on in silence. Dalia did ‘not re- appear, much to Roman’s disappointment. Finally the old man said: *« You didn’t answer my question in regard to your brother, Mr. Carson.” ** Alas! I cannot give a satisfactory reply. They tell me he is dead.” “Then you are not sure of it?” ““No; but he has been bound upon a wild horse, and——” “A wild horse!” exclaimed the other. the creature white?” “Yes; and yoa know something of him?” cried Roman, excitedly. “Know him—the Headless Mazeppa? the only one who does know him!” Roman tarned with amazement, to meet the Other’s flashing gaze. “Then you can tell me all? Man, don’t keep me in suspense!” “Ha, ha! give me time. You are mad now! Bat you will be madder when I tell you all!” “Why do you hesitate? I would know the worst a% once.” “The worst! Ha, ha! Then listen: I put the Headless Mazeppa ey the white steed—yes, ‘Tg Iam PGET ESE ALIN Soren bound him there so he cannot get away. Ye Ibound Aim—my accursed foe, though he w your brother—on the back of the wild whi steed, that no hand but mine ever touche ie | ever will!” ii Roman Carson listened to the wildly-spoken words with speechless amazement. The old man seemed fearfully excited, and as he pace od the floor he shook his head and waved his. hands frantically. Before Roman could speak : Dalia bounded into the room, crying: Ps ‘*Oh, father, the Comanches are coming! They are almost here!” Glancing out of the loop-holes that served for windows, Roman and her parent saw that ~ she was right. Fully a score of the pai : bedaubed redakins, with Tiger Heart at thé lead, were rapidly approaching. eu ue They must not see you!” cried Dalia to Roman. ‘ They would kill you. Quick, foller — me!” and she rushed into the adjoining apart- ~ ment, followed by him, who was too much sur- prised to speak. ‘* Cover yourself up with the skins,” she cried, ‘‘ and keep quiet!” : 73 * But yourself and father?” PY *‘They will not touch us. So have no feat. Roman hesitated no longer, but did as she had told him. ‘* There,” she said, ‘‘ they will not think that! you are here, and we will get rid of them as soon as possible. Hark! I hear them near at hand.” An instant later he was left alone. He i her father give some hasty command, and th the savages bolted into the cabin, when a great noise and confused cries ensued. ay CHAPTER XL Ticer Heart was foremost of the dusk, throng thac entered the hermit’s cabin. If were “possible he looked wilder and fier than ever. d ‘*Ho, Ochee!” he cried, addressing the man, ‘‘ hast a white dog passed this way?” = “ ‘Little mote I your question, chief. Nof © i white man could pass here while I'd a grain o @ powéer left.” j “What! not passed here?” cried the rene ~ E gace, fiercely. **Theu, by the lion’s mang, ie is in thy hovel!” RiP: Dalia could hardly suppress a cry ba made the startling announcement: ‘*Girl, what sayest thou? One of my Wi riors saw him in thy company.” : ‘1 do not know who you meau?” she. a swered. ‘* Mean, girl? Do not dare to deny itt ‘He was seen with you, but my warrior did not dare to attack him without consulting me.” ‘*What does it concern you, Sir Chief, if was seen in the company of a white mao? Am I not of that race’as well as you?” ; The cutting words, so rashly spoken, cau: : the other to start with rage. **Look out!” he hissed. ‘‘We have Co for the Winged Trailer; and we'll hey him ¢ this hovel down upon your heads.” < In an instant the truth flashed through, he mind. Roman had been seen with her ao mistaken for the ranger. “Jack o' the Plains is not in this building Why do you come to make war upon us?” ‘Girl, you needn’t think to bluff us. W know the white dog is here, and we will hay him in spite of all youcando. Tell.us whe he is and we will not harm you. e and—— ; He did not finish the sentence with word but his looks were enough to send a thrill’ terror to the maiden’s heart. Meeting his fie gaze unflinchingly, however, she replied: ‘ ‘Jack Shelby is not in this cabio, nor do know where he is.” 3 A fearful imprecation left his lips. **You are a fool! Warriors, seize her. W will see if she can’t be made to tell.” Fy Half a dozen of the Comanches sprang kc ward at his bidding, and in spite of her s' S les she was overpowered. The old hermi fooked on with suppressed emotion. Sid ‘Dalia, if you know anything of the wh tell the chief.” ‘ “« Never!” o7e0 she, firmly. ‘I will first!” a sa ett aed a
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PS cShe Taye Tae NEE LL choke, her!” commanded the mad chief. At that moment the skin forming the door to “the inner apartment was dashed aside, and Reman Carson bounded upon the scene. He had been aroused by the outcries, and .as he Yeaciied the spot the Comanches were hurled ~headione right and left by his furious blows. "Back, there, you red heatherns!” he yelled. " Qiiekly recovering from their surprise, the sal threw themselves upon him. Protect- as best he could, Roman fought des- perately, felling one after another of his foes in his wild struggles. But the odds were too much against him, and, wounded and bleeding, he fell’s A dozen tomahawks would have cleft bis skull had not the heroic girl thrown herself upon Mim, thus at the risk of Ler own life shield- ing oy i their blows. For fear of anger- ing ‘chief they dared not harm her. “*Bind the dog!’ commanded Tiger Heart, “and well take him with us.” Dalia saw that farther resistance on her part Was Madness, and as her father offered no in- terposition, the Comanches prepared to leave > With their’ captive. anctone a-dead loss!” Pig Wit \ Plains . x = i % _ on to * quicker than they. Look out how you hide away foes again,” Warned the Mad Chief, as tiley left the cabin With their captive. Text instant he saw that they were pursued by a score or more of mounted —Tidians as he recognized them. The @ were white men, he quickly decided. A later the fugitives evidently discovered in“front cutting off their escape, for Menly changed their course to a right he cries of the savages now faintly Jack’s ears. The ranger remained With the greatest difficultyas he watched ing race. The two bodies of the say- tow endeavored to intercept the flight of whites, and soon they bore closely down the doomed men. Then the horse of one ; lonz to the plains, and its rider reached © Garth to turn at bay upon his foes. Before companions could turn to assist him the red ons had come between them, and all that equld do wasto keep on. But it was evident that bis horse had nearly runits race. Goaded er speed than ever for u short time, it then staczered to and fro for a few rods and Would have fallen to the earth had uot its rider Teaped from its back with a wild ringing cry, to continue his flight on foot. The redskins yelled fiercer than ever, and their ponies on after the dismounted fu- bat but they soon found that they had no 4 meen... catch. .At an astonishing gait the white ran on and on, showing no signs of fatieue. He had thrown -away his rifle, and, Uhencumbered, swept on with wonderful Strides. _ “T's Longfoot Joe, or I’m a dead liar!” ex- ‘ Jack, growing more and more excited. "**And he’s coming this way! Hooray, old pard, tp a minute longer and I'll save: you, or the words upon his lips Jack o’ the hed down the descent, and an in- ‘Stant later reached the boys. "Never were two horses saddled and bridled Leaping then upon the back of Wingfoot and leading Redbird, he rode Wildly oat upon the plain. The white man was _ ~ Still maintaining the race, but the wiry ponies of 1) the Comanches were proving too much for him. ) SURE rang far and wide over the prairie. Whoop—hooray!” yelled Jack, in a fous e oa ‘old hoss. fugitive and pursuers looked up alike with dis- may. A glad cry left Longfoot Joe’s lips, for it was he, as he saw his friend, and he bounded for- ward with renewed energy. The Comanches were for,a time disconcerted, bat seeing only one coming to the rescue, they again swept forward with prolonged yells. ‘‘Now or never!” cried Jack, as he dashed alongside of his friend. Wish Redbird’s speed hardly checked, Joes vaulted into the saddle. Grasping the reins, he struck the spurs into the horse’s flanks, when the fleet-footed animal shot forward with the speed of the wind. ‘‘Come on, you red rapscallions!” shouted Jack o’ the Plains, shaking his fist at the sur- prised savages as he flew over the prairie. The ponies of the Indians were already feel- ing the effects of the work they had done, but their inhuman riders goaded them on without mercy. CHAPTER XII. From the start the swift-footed bays, fresh for the race, began to outdistance the failing ponies of the Comanches. Allowing the reins to lie on the withers of his steed, Jack o’ the Plains, looked back, waving his hand and shont- ing ever and anon: - : “Come on, old smoky hides! you get your fun!” Joe was too much exhausted from his late race to other than sit in his saddle with anx- ious looks ahead. Darkness was creeping on apace, and soon the dusky forms of their pur- suers began to fade from view. Then their yells grew more and more indistinct until they were unheard. Finally, as they rode on at a more easy pace, Jack said: “S'pose we give our horses a breathing spell? Don’t believe we shall hev to go any furder to-night, old beaver.” “‘Nary more do I, chum,” replied Joe, reining up beside his companion. ‘‘Old boy, gin us yer paw; ye pulled me through slick, ye did, I s'pected the reds wud be finger- ing my top-knot, and so they wud ef ye hadn’t drawn up.” : ‘‘Wagh, Jack Shelby ain’t one to chaw his finger when a pard is desprit straightened! But how came you here when I s’posed you were at the settlement slick?” ‘© Wal, ye see, old hoss,” replied Joe, ‘* when me and Van and White Fox seed ye go outo’ sight and we headin’ fer the settlement, it made us feel like Greasers. It looked pesky bad, it did, and we know’d we shud be the laughin’- stock o’ all'the boys, so we didn’t go very fur afore we turned heel fer toe and started arter ye. Somebow we didn’t sight ye as slick as we opined, and this afternoon we got ambush- ed, by gravy. Poor Dan, the White Fox, fell at the fust fire. Me and Yan slid out and ye seed the result. The Comanches hey his top- knot. But whar is the younker wot went off with ye, Jack?” ‘«Gone under, poor beaver. He fit likea good one, but we had a hard pull, and Wing- foot jest fetched me through. Joe, old coon, throwing in the younker, and he war a likely chap, we are all thar are left of the old band.” **Co-rect, my boy. Howsumever, the end ain’t yet. Them Comanches ’ll howl in a dif- ferent way, I'm thinkin’, afore we get through. How does the stick float with ye?” ““Wagh, it pints up the crik,” replied Jack o° the Plains somewhat fiercely, looking defiantly toward the home of the Comanches. ‘* We'll let our hosses rest a couple of hours, and then we'll take the trail.” At the end of the time they started cautiously northward. The sky was overcast, so that the night was quite dark, though they advanced along the edge of the plain that bordered the Red Lands with little difficulty. Nothing oc- curred to alarm them, and at last they stood in the valley where Jack had been on the after- noon before. “« We will leave our hosses hyur,” he said. A few minutes later they left the valley on foot, dodging along in the shadow of the growth to- ward the camping-ground of their red foes. ‘*Snakes eat’em,” growled Joe, ‘this is a Hyur’s whar purty go, to be on the war-path with nary a shooter!” ‘Tis, sure. Wagh! Mebbe ye can get hold of a red’s weapon. — Hi! thar am a party of the coyotes. Reckon the woods am full on ’em.” Jack’s assertion seemed literally true. Crouching low in the undergrowth, they saw the war-party pass a short distance away. ‘‘Hark!” whispered Joe, ‘‘ the old Nick is to pay up yender.” They were near enough to hear a wild tumult from the Indian village. But their attention was attracted in another direction. Heavy footsteps were heard approaching, and a min- ute later the figure of a wild-looking man burst into view. His tall, gaunt form was clad in a garb of skins, and his eyes glowed like balls of fire in the semi-darkness. It was the old her- mit of the Red Lands, seeming wilder than ever. ‘‘ Where is the light of my home?” he cried, shaking his long rifle above his head as he came crashing the growth. Jack and Joe drew back with surprise. They were too late, however, to ayoid disco‘ery. Coming directly toward them, the strange man suddenly found himself in the vise-like grasp of Longfoot Joe. “*Stop yer noise!” hissed the ranger, as the other grappled with him, and they closed in a hand-to-haud struggle. : But the Comanches had already been aroused. Hearing them rushing in that direc- tion with renewed yells, Jack sprang to the as- sistance of his companion. Joe had found his match. The old hermit coiled his lank, wiry form about him after the manner of a huge boa, and his long, talon-like fingers closed upon the ranger in death-like ps. “Shake him off—git!” cried Jack. ‘‘The hull lot of varmints are after ts!” As he spoke he caught hold of the madman and lent his assistance to’ Joe. Between them both the other was flung to the earth. By this time the Comanches were near at hand, and a second party was heard coming from another direction. 1 “Take the old chap's shooter and come along,” said Jack. Snatching up the rusty fire-arm of the hermit, Joe sprang after his companion, leaving the strange white in the act of regaining his feet. To retreat was impossible, and to advance was eqnally as hazardous, so they were obliged to flee at a right angle, which carried them in the direction of the plain. Joe soon overtook his friend, and side by side they bounded away. Catching sight of their retreating forms, the Comanches gave pursuit. Soon reaching the plain, they still kept on, putting forth every energy in their endeavors to escape. The second party of Comanches proved to be mounted, and they joined in the race with triumphant yells. Jack was a fleet runner as well as his compapvion, and the say- ages soon found that they had no easy game to catch. Of course, however, there could be but one result—the whites, sooner or later, must be overtaken. They knew this, but were de- lermined to sell their lives as dearly as possible. At last Jack cried: **Old beaver, this is a blind trail!” “ Wagh!” ‘“What’s the use to spile moccasins in this way? Let’s gin ’em a taste of lead.” o ’Greed!” 4 Simultaneonsly they paused. {The redmen were now within easy rifle-shot, and bearing down upon them like the wind. Like hunted tigers the rangers turned at bay. The moon, yailed by a cloud, but dimly lit the wild, weird scene. Seeing that their foes had turned to meet them defiantly, the Comanches increased their yells and prepared to attack them. Watch- ing their opportunity, the hunted rangers selected their victims. “‘Now!” exclaimed Jack. Then two reports blending as one rang out, when a pair of the foremost redskins bit the dust. A volley came from the others, and deafening yells rang out in blood-curdling vol- umes. Springing to one side and dropping flat upon the earth, the rangers began to reload. The volley from their foes passed over their
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: bos | | “SASK O' THE PLAINS. heads, and then they sprang up, to send the deadly contents of their weapons into the bodies of two'of the oncoming fiends. CHAPTER XII. In order to keep pace with events, we must next follow the fortunes of Roman Carson, which can be briefly told. We shall not at- tempt to describe his feelings. Unused to such proceedings, his agony was fearful, and the red demons delighted to torment him in every way possible, and they were not a few. At last the forest bordering the stream was reached, and then the Comanches entered a beautiful valley, near the lower end of which Roman caught sight of a sheet of water, glist- ening in the moonlight like burnished silver. He had but little time or inclination to note the surroundings, and in a few minutes the home of the redmen burst into yiew. A wild, excit- ed mod of paint-bedaubed warriors, hideous squaws and shrieking children were dancing frantically to and fro. As they caught sight of the war-party, the entire horde rushed for- ward to meet them, their unearthly cries fairly deafening the captive. It seemed as if the wild rabble would seize him from their captors as they saw him. Some clutched him excitedly, others hooted, and yet others threw sticks and dirt at him. Even the old, decrepid men joined in the tumult. The Mad Chief waved them all back, however, and Roman was borne to the center of the village. Then the motley throng surrounded him, hoot- ing, jeering, exalting in fiendish glee over his sufferings as they formed in a circle. Roman resolved to put on as bold a front as possible, and bravely meet the inevitable. He sawsome of the chiefs talking, if their gibberish deserved the name, to each other, and ever and anon they pointed excitedly to a stake driveninto the ground a short distance off. A thrill of horror shot through the captive’s frame as he realized the fate in store for him. Death at the stake! Finally he was dragged forward to the fatal spot. Then he was bound to the stake, and at once was begun a series of Gemoniac acts too revolting to be recorded. - Dancing around him in a circle, the Comanches . set up such a series of yells and shrieks that one could but feel that all the imps of bedlam had been let loose. In the midst of this wild carnival a new- comer appeared on the scene. He was evi- dently an Indian chief, though he must have been young in years, and his gaudy trappings showed that he was.a Comanche, but of a dif- ferent party from those under the Mad Chief. He was mounted upon a noble-looking horse, which, while bearing evidence of having come some distance, was still in good trim for work. The Comanches hailed the new arrival with noisy demonstrations, while he greeted them with wild gestures and a loud whoop. At sight of the captive he gave vent to a regular Comanche yell, and thrust his spear toward the “ doomed white. This seemed the signal for renewed hostilities toward the captive, who had to undergo greater tortures than before. The young chief turned to speak to some of the other red leaders, so that Roman lost sight of him. In fact our unfortunate hero had quite enough else to occupy his attention. After tormenting him to their satisfaction in the manner indicated, the Comanche next began to pile a circle of brushwood around the stake. The young chief had now dismounted and had joined the others in their fiendish work. His horse stood near by. Throwing down an armfal of fagots, the Comanche stepped for- ward and struck the captive with the palm of his hand. He bad repeated this several times, when, bending forward, he caught the prison- er’s ear between his teeth and seemed about to bite it off. A wild yell came from the spectators, and at that moment Roman heard the whispered command: ** When I cut your thongs mount my horse and ride for your life.” Befure Roman could recover from his surprise the other had joined the mad rabble, and the fearfal proceedings went on. When at last everything was in readiness the young chief himself seized a burning brand and applied it to the combustible wood. The tem- porary hopes that Roman had felt now left him and he felt that he was lost. The savages grew wilder than ever as the fire increased in volume. Suddenly Roman felt something cold touch his wrists, and then the single word rang in his ears: 2 : ac Now Y z . He realized that his bonds had been cut— that he was free! He cleared the encircling brush-wood at a bound, and reaching the horse, vaulted into the saddle. Before the amazed Comanches could recover enough from their dismay to stop him, he had caught up the reins, when the spirited horse sprang swiftly forward. Some of the most self-possessed of the Co- manches attempted to stop his flight, but urgin his fleet-footed steed swiftly forward, he Alara the mad throng. With furious yells the redskins sprang in pur- suit. Volley after volley of shot and arrows were sent after him. Fortunately he escaped unscathed, On foot the redmen had little hope of recapturing their victim. Looking back, Roman saw them madly fol- lowing him; but he looked in vain for his pre- server, Luckily for him, he shaped his course west- ward. Had he gone to the east he would have encountered the savages besieging Jack and Longfoot Joe. Soon reaching the growth, he dashed through its shadows, leaving the small lake to his right. - He had no idea where he was going—only hoping to elude his noisy foes. He soon found that the horse he rode was not only fleet of foot, but promised great power of endurance. He was soon aware, however, that his pursuers had mounted their swift ponies, and though he had obtained a good start of them, he was booked for a Jong if not a close race. The same moonlight that seemed so much against the rangers favored him; at least it enabled him to advance with prenthe speed, and little versed in woodcraft as e was, his only chance lay in the distance-he could put between himself and his foes. Gradually the cries of his pursuers grew fainter, and he knew that he was slowly leaving them: The belt of timber grew narrower as he pro- gressed, while on his left extended the prairie as far as he could see. Roman could not help wondering bow he came to have a friend in the person of the Co- manche chief. He would have given much to have been able to speak to the friendly Indian. As such reflections were coursing through his mind he was suddenly startled by a crash in the growth ahead of him. Expecting an attack from a war party of Comanches, he reined up his horse in trepidation. The next moment the white steed, with the Headless Mazeppa, bounded into view. ‘The wild steed uttered a snort of terror as it saw him, and turned to flee. Roman urged his animal forward in hot pursuit. He had not gore far, however, before a stentorian voice reached his ears: ‘Hold up thar, wildfire! You ride like mad!” Reining up his horse in surprise, he saw a couple of white men advancing. They appeared friendly and he gladly waited for them to come forward. ** Look here, my fine fellow,” exclaimed the foremost, ‘‘you had better be more careful how you ride or you will have the whole Comanche nation on your heels.” ‘Which isn’t far from the case now,” replied Roman. ‘‘Glad am I to meet you.” “‘Sho! guess we ain't very bad chaps to scare up. So you are having a little brush with the copper-skins?” In a few words Roman told of his escape from the savages. ‘* Wal—wal, you are some and no mistake! Guess we'll skip ‘long with you a bit, for it would seem that the varmints are too many for us three. What do you say, Bill?” addressing his companian. ‘*’Greed,” was the terse reply. Ns CHAPTER XIV. - z 2 '¥ As Jack sprang back to drop upon theground e again after firing his second shot, he sawa~ slight hollow or depression in the earth n His quick eye instantly saw the advan the situation, and he cried to Joe: Pe--; ‘Quick, pard, hyur’s our corral!” at the same time springing to the place. His com- panion quickly followed. The boitom-of'the hollow, which was six or eight feet in diame- ter, was about a foot below the level of the — plain, and the bank around them promised pro- tection from the bullets of their red foes. AS they disappeared from sight the ams Co- manches reined up, while sending a elond of arrows and bullets hurtling through’the air, These, of course, were harmless to the whites, who were rapidly reloading their weapons. The tug of war had now fairly begun;forthem. ~~ Jack had not as yet used his revolvers, but he ~~ have them handy, tithe 2c : “It’s a cool head and a steady handnow,7 said Shelby, calmly. ‘‘Ha! the varmiits are beginning to advance. Let’s let ‘em knowwe ~~ are round.” teoe 4 The savages were coming forward cautioeniys not knowing what to expect, when thé rangers — thrust the muzzies of their rifles up the grass that grew on the bank of the hollow, and with careful aim fired. Howls of ri gene : from the horde as again the {ore wain of their numbers threw up their arms and went headlong to the prairie. Another yolley shot was sent in the direction from whence shots had come, and more than one— buried itself in the bank surrounding | sieged rangers. To show their heads wou he death now, and being careful not toexposeeyen a hand, they rammed home another char their death-dealing fire-arms. had found that they had no slight unde upon their hands, and without advance further began to hold a consultatio moon at this jancture appeared frombehind = the clond, lighting the plain to almost mid-day = brilliancy, : Sas es «That's bad for us,” muttered Jack. **Bi : how do you feel, old man?” omitted: > 4 “Slick as a new wiping-stick. Say, old boy, =~ don’t the varmints look ugly? Oh, I end) tah sich a purty bead on that tall chief. ea do it, old pard?" —e ‘*Mebbe we had better let em chin it i fix their plans, wagh. See, the moon * 2 covered afore they’ll get through.” SP ant? After a hasty cousultation the Coman were seen to sepurate and to advance at angles upon them. Spt “You look out for them on the left,” wi pered Jack, ‘‘and I'll attend to the Others.” — Scarcely had the redskins began to mo when the sharp reports of two rifles broke the. Ss stillness, and the leaders of either body went =~ midst of the shrieks that followed other reports a safer distance. This last movement allo the rangers another breathing spell. A low chuckle came from Jack. ts ie ‘‘Reckun they don’t find mach fun im run- =~ ning such a show.” omer = 27 ‘*P’raps not; but their turn’ll kem soon. IT = don’t see no pesky show fer us.” ae ““Wagh, the moon is agin us. Ifit war ~ dark we might get away, but shining like that | > is as bad as daylight. However, as long as our & powder lasts we can pickle them,and mebbeafter ~ all we shall outwitthem. Many’sthetimeT've felt Ake givin’ under, when sumthin’ wonld jast = lift me right ont. Curious how near a feller ~~ will ride‘in bis funaral and save his top-k ERs time and agin.” oi, “True, old boy, and then it don’t take muth - = to lay him out. Seems as if he war knocked + out by mechinery, as Black Jonnson used to ~~ to say. There was Tommy Daniels, a right 4 sharp lad, who fit with Captain Jack, and seed ~~ a heap o’ tall fightin* till——” ~. ~ tae ‘The eoyotes are up to some new devil! ¥ whispered Jack. aa: yates Peering cautiously out from their ¢ore 5 eg pass, saw the redmen, who had been gath> of a ered in a huddle, begin to separate and mak nf ef : ° aS nd ee Pe Ma me
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“@ifferent detours on the plain. Of course they _@ould see nothing plainly, but they knew well what the red imps were bent upon doing. ‘They are going to surround us,” said Jack. | “Wagh! They'll find our powder dry yet, el kalkilate.” » So dol.” 2 ; Calmly the intrepid twain awaited the issue. Half an hour passed,and not a sound had broken ‘the ominious silence. Had the savages aban- Full well did the waiting Light hazy clouds were _ doned the siege? Faugers know better. drifting across the sky, and darting ever and Fanon behind these, the moon was often hidden from sight. But with every returning flash of " light the rangers scanned closely the surround- ing scene. At last Joe caught the sight of an ‘Indian's plume in the grass on their left. A “mioment later Jack made a similar discovery in _ 40 opposite direction. In silence they raised their rifles, and as the moonlight gleamed upon e barrels two sharp spangs awoke the night, nd then two dusky forms sprang into the ‘simultaneously, to fall upon the prairie in e throes of death. Again the stillness of the preceding moment reigned. Five minutes of “unbroken silence followed, when an Indian’s d was seen to rise from amid the grass, and an instant later to disappear. x “T am waiting for you,” said Joe, grimly. It wasn’t long before Jack was watching a “Moving bunch of grass. But he knew well the object lurking behind it. If he did not, the ter- _ ‘rible shrieks that succeeded the discharge of his gan told him. Joe had not been idle, as a brawny Co- nche warrior found to his cost. Not a shot been fired by the savages all this time. A : minutes later, however, a dull thud was B Heard a short distance away. This was followed ; others in rapid succession, and it soon be- ‘Game evident that the redskins were attempting anew mode of warfare. Finding it impossible to ht the whites—they lay so much below them— hey had laid aside their fire-arms, and were hooting arrows directly up in the air, so regu- ed in the angle of their course by the aim as 9 strike the objective point in their descent. bY Here was a danger they had not counted upon, 4nd were powerless to avert. The best that , : Sa, could do was to keep the Comanches at a 7 tance and trust in Providence to escape their we > héavy, sharp-pointed and barbed arrows, which _ would have pinned them to earth had one _ struck them. Several fell within the hollow and “one pierced Joe’s hunting shirt, but fortunately ‘they escaped injury. » We need not dwell upon the tedious hours of peril that followed. idee ' The rangers were compelled to maintain a ” ceaseless vigil, while expecting every moment ¢ to feel a Comanche arrow piercing their bodies. Toward midnight the clouds cleared away, ” 0 that the night was clear and bright, leaving _ them no hope of escape by flight. ae Then tke hours of morning crept slowly on, +? ~~ bringing them no hope. The gray light in the "east crimsoned to a rosy dawn, and the sun mshered in another day. Still the deadly mis- siles of their foes fell uncomfortably near. ' wice had Jack felt their keen points and ” Joe had received a painful wound. Re CHAPTER XV. THe Comanches finally became silent, and it "seemed they had given up the siege. To test it, Jack placed his sombrero on the muzzle of his rifle and carefully thrust it into sight. It ~ was quickly perforated with half a dozen bullets. © «By my soul!” exclaimed Joe, a few minutes later, “‘I do believe the yarmints are up to _ gome new deviltry. I smell fire! **So do I, old man!” ete - A startling suspicion came into their minds 5 which a minute later resolved itself into a stern = “reality. f Yes,” deelared Joe, who was maintaining Syisl on the westward, ‘can see the smoke. “The red devils are firing the plain!” i - “Wagh, they mean to drive us out.” **So I reckon, old pard, and, what is more, are going to do it. The Agena swept higher, and it wasn’t long before they could see the fire plainly. It = 4 * JACK O' THE PLAINS. had kindled rapidly and a fearful conflagration was spreading right and left. A strong breeze was blowing from the west, which was sweep- ing it on with the speed of a race horse. It would soon reach them. “Tt is a fight and die!” said Joe, grimly, as he tightened his belt a notch. ‘*They shan’t say that old Joe Garlon went under with his heels up.” *““Wagh, you are true grit, old hoss; but prime your shovoter with damp powder if I can’t read sign slick. Hyur’s a coon as sees more fun than ’em Comanches ever dreamed.” Joe’s countenance lightened. Jack quickly drew fofth his flint and steel, and cautiously pulling a handful of grass growing on the edge of the bank, he struck fire. : “My gums, ye are sum!” exclaimed his companion, lending his assistance. It didn’t take them long to start a fire half way around the circuit of the hollow, which, when done, kindled rapidly, The same wind that swept the conflagration on from the west fanned the flames set by the rangers, until they rose higher and higher, spreading swiftly right and left. The Comanches, of course, had been furced to escape the path of the fire set by themselves, and now, with dismay, were they obliged to flee from before this new con- flagration. “Come, old man,” cried Jack o’ the Plains triumphantly, springing to his feet; ‘*now’s our time.” Between the two fires the rangers saw an avenue of escape. Cramped and benumbed from having lain so long in one position, at first they moved with difficulty. But a little exercise brought back to their limbs former activity, and they were soon rushing after the retreating fire with rapid strides. Nearly sur- rounded by the flames, we doubt if the red- skins fully realized at first their attempt at es- cape. Beit as it may, it was not till the Red Lands were nearly reached that the flames died down so the Comanches could be seen in the distance. With nothing to feed its hungry flames, the foremost conflagration expired when it reached the border of the desert. One burned out where the other began, while the southern boundary of both had been the stream and lake already mentioned. A broad smile lit the genial face of Jack o’ the Plains as he caught sight of the savages. : ««Reckon the coyotes didn’t think they war helping us to get away when they started their little smoke. 7 ; ** Mebbe we had better hunt up the boys.” ‘*Co-rect; but we’ve got to look sharp, for the reds are nigh.” Reaching the edge of the Red Lands, they ran swiftly toward the valley where they had left their horses. It would have been better for them at the time to have gone to the north. In that direction they might have easily escaped, but in the end it proved a God-send to others that they went as they did. In fact, however, we have it from Jack’s own lips that he would have died before he would have deserted his faithful Wingfoot. In a few minutes they reach- ed the stream that flowed from near the home of the Comanches to follow later the border of the Red Lands running southward. 5 ‘«Thar kem the smoky varmints!” exclaimed oe. « Well, if the bays are all slick we'll give ’em the slip.” Then they entered the narrow valley where they had left their horses the evening before. They found the animals all right, the intelligent. creatures greeting them with low whinnies of delight. “Good old Wingfoot,” said Jack, as he quickly prepared to leave the place, ** you have another srace ‘to run, Carry me through this trail, old boy, and——” ‘«The reds are upon us, Jack!” cried his com- panion; ‘‘and our escape is cut off!” ‘Texas is full of cut-offs!” exclaimed Jack o’ the Plains, springing into the saddle. As his eye swept the scene he, too, saw that they were bemmed in: The valley, or whatever name may be given it more applicable, was bourded on three sides by precipitous ascents, rock- strewn and broken. The Indians now com- manded the narrow pass that led to the isolated spot. To attempt to escape that way would be courting instant death. To turn al bay was equal madness. Jack saw this at a glance. The yells of the on-coming Comanches told that they knew it as well. Glancing quickly up the rugged height on the right, a wild war-whoop left Jack Shelby’s lips. : “‘Foller me, Joe,” he cried. At the same instant he struck his blood bay a smart blow, crying: “Go, Wingfoot, up!” With gigantic bounds the noble horse leaped forward at the bidding of its master, heading directly toward the ascent. Longfoot Joe saw the daring movement, and urged Redbird to follow. The gallant steed needed no second bid- ding to do this. With wonderful leaps the light-footed bays rushed up the rocky height where it seemed impossible for even a man to gain afoothold. The Comanches paused with looks of awe and amazement, expecting every moment to see horses and riders go tumbling into the valley below. - But higher and higher dashed the struggling bays, while the loosened stones went crashing down into the bottom. Once Redbird missed his footing, and for an instant horse and man seemed suspended in mid-air. Then with a mighty effort the steed regained its foothold, and with an encouraging cry from its master again shot upward. Wing- foot had already cleared the worst of the as- cent, and a little later, with quivering form and panting breath, he stood on the barren summit. As Jack turned with an exultant shout his companion gained his side. Nota shot had been fired by the Comanches as they gazed spell-bound upon the daring feat. Wild cries from them now rent the air, though we Suspect they were as much of admiration as anything else. ‘* Hooray!” answered back Jack o’ the Plains, waving his sombrero above his head, ‘‘we stump you to foller!” A volley from the discomfited redmen fol- lowed his taunting speech. CHAPTER XVI. BEForE the rangers lay a sharp descent, though not as abrupt as the one behind them. They could look down on an extensive area of prairie; and as they hastily glanced in that direction, they saw three horsemen’ riding to- ward them at the top of their animals’ speed. Apparently the trio had not seen them. What then was their object? ““'They are white men,” affirmed Joe. ‘*Wagh! but look thar!” and Jack pointed at a more exciting scene at the base of the de- scent. They looked down upon the home of the hermit, and at that moment it was surrounded by half a hundred Comanches, dancing and yelling in mad excitement. The hut was already in flames, and in the hands of the red demons were the old man and his daughter. Their shrieks were now borne to the rangers’ ears. The sight of all this had occupied but an in- stant’s time. ‘* We are needed thar, old man,” said Jack, quickly, pointing to the burning cabin and wild scene around it. ‘ “Tam with ye.” Once more the hardy bays were urged for- ward. Ata breakneck speed they leaped down the descent, clearing bowlder after bowlder and leaping wide fissures in their headlong“course. Erect as centaurs the intrepid riders maintain- ed their seats and looked wildly forward. It was a thrilling scene. Suddenly the shrieking redskins, dancing in fiendish glee around the home they had doomed with their own burning brand, saw two horsemen rush down upon them with wind-like velocity. Loud shouts rang from the reckless twain, and their rifles spoke in tones of death. Two of the Indian chiefs fell and the warriors turned in dismay to meet their foes. Into their very midst swept Jack and Joe, regardless of the odds. Right and left they dealt their startling blows. Little wonder the two score and a half of redmen were for a moment taken too much by surprise to meet their attack. Then the rallied with war cries that would have struck
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a ae . a eae a ee eee terror to hearts less used to such unearthty tumult. The rangers had not counted their chances in vain. “This is for Grizzly Van and White Fox!” yelled the ranger chief at the top of his sten- torian lungs, as he led the wild charge with Longfoot Joe but a hair’s-breadth behind him. “And this is for Jack o’ the Plains!” rang another voice above the din of the conflict. Then the three from the plains joined in the mad attack. The Comanches received this as- sault from the rear with yells of terror. Thinking a great number of enemies were coming, they broke in wild confasion. _ In vain the Mad Chief tried to rally them. Seeming everywhere present, he attempted vainly to in- fuse into them some of his courage. Jack tried to meet him hand-to-hand, but failed. Theold hermit had fal’en at the first of the fight, while Dalia was in the hands of the redskins. Hear- ing her cries, Jack and Joe dashed to her as- sistance, but were too late tosaveher. Seeing that the fight was going against him, Tiger Heart seized the girl in his herculean grasp and lifted herupon hishorse. Then, with a tri- umphant whoop, he dashed toward the plain and in direction of his home. © With wild yells the Comanches rushed after him, though soon scat- tering in every direction. Thus were the whites left victors of the field. Jack, however, was not content. He had seen the capture of the maiden, and as the Mad Chief dashed away he turned Wingfoot in pursuit. «*On Wingfcot—on!” he yelled, and he start- ed in pursuit of the renegade chief. Joe saw the daring act, and with a yell as loud rushed after him. The other, seeing the headlong chase, followed, though less rapidly. It seemed impossible that Jack should overtake the chief, but Wingfuot was doing his utmost. Never did the gallant bay better deserve his name. And barely halfa length behind him came Redbird. Some of the Indians looked back with terror as inch by inch and foot by foot the Tangers gained on them. Jack’s special object was the Mad Chief, whose coal-black steed, bearing a double bur- den, was fast losing ground. . Once the rene- gade looked back, and then his whole attention was taken up in trying to outdistance his pur- suer. He plowed his rowels into his horse till its dark sides were. crimsoned with blood. In spite of all he could do, however, the bay stead- ily gained on him. All the wildness of Jack’s nature seemed to have been aroused. Sweep- ing forward, so as to come alongside of the chief, he dropped the reins upon Wingfoot’s neck. Seeing that escape was impossible, the Mad Chief drew his knife and raised his arm to deal Dalia a death-blow. With a scream she tried to break from his hold, but he held her as if in a vise. “Die!” he hissed, and his uplifted arm de- scended just as Jack’s stentorian voice thun- dered: ‘* Quit thet, you red devil!” At the same instant he was beside the other. There was a flash of steel, and Tiger Heart was seen to reel in his saddle. Dalia was torn from his grasp, and Jack’s strong arm lifted her upon his own horse. Turning then, Jack dealt the Mad Chief another terrific blow, when, with a startling cry, the renegade went headlong to the plain. All this had been done without ‘slackening the speed of the horses. Jack, having accomplished his purpose, now wheeled and turned back from the chase. Those of the Comanches who had seen their chief fall seem- ed little disposed to give pursuit. Prepared to cover his companion’s escape, if necessary, Longfoot Joe followed him, and seeing that no further pursuit was intended, the others started to join them, Near the edge of the prairie the five met. “You beat Captain Jack’s ride all holler!” mee Joe. ‘My eyes, won’t these bays jest yr *«T reckon,” replied Jack. ‘‘Buat are you hurt, purty one?” he asked of Dalia. ‘*No—no! but oh, this is terrible.. And father—have they killed him?” **Mebbe some of you had better look arter the old chap,” said Jack. ‘‘We haven’t much ss time to spare, for the varmints are likely to come in for another show.” Joe and one of the others started at once to go to the old cabir, now nearly burned down. “T wish we had another hoss for you,” said Jack to Dalia. «*Mine and Mr. Carson’s are in our corral,” she replied. ‘‘If one of you will go with me we can get them.” «*Sit right still then and we'll git ’em.” Guided by the maiden, Jack soon reached the corral, to find the horses, as she had said. It was but 2 moment’s work to prepare them for use, and Delia was once more on the back of her faithful Zip. They rode back by the way of the old cabin —a pile of ashes now. Joe and his companion had almost given up their search for the old hermit, when they found his body some way from the scene of the fight. He was dead, as was seen ata glance, A Comanche bullet had taken his life. With acry of pain Dalia had ae to the ground and bent over his still ‘orm. ‘Poor father!” she moaned, ‘‘at last your sufferings are over. But what shall I do? Alone in this terrible country!” ‘*Not alone, fair maid,” said Roman Carson, who was one of the three, ‘‘but you have true friends who will see that no harm befalls you.” “Oh, I thank you for your kind words, Mr. Carson. Iam glad, too, that you escaped the Comanches.” CHAPTER XVII. * Look byur,” cried Jack, ‘‘if you ain’t in for tal] doin’s, pick up your traps and git. I tell you ’em coyotes are comin’ back soon like a full-grown toranader!” “Tt seems too bad to leave the body said Longfoot Joe. «You can all dig a grave down by the plain in a few jiffies.” ° *Let’s do it, boys,” declared Joe, and the others quickly assented. Dalia’s grief was great, and with heart-rend- ing sobs she threw herself beside the lifeless figure, Unused to such show of sorrow, the rangers were deeply affected, but in a short time they had prepared a grave for the body, when they tenderly jaca the form in it. A few minutes later the solemn task was ended. ‘*We are none too soon,” declared Jack. “See, the varmints are coming out of the tim’er. Come, let’s go to ithe south.” The next minute thelitile cavalcade headed their horses in the direction indicated and rode swiftly away. If the Comanches gave pursuit, they did not get near enough to be troublesome. But little was said by the horse- men, and Dalia, occupied with her gloomy thoughts, said nothing, until at last Jack reined up his bay, saying: ‘‘Tiere’s water and here’s grass for our ani- mals, and I say let’s stop a spell.” The others assenting, the horses were soon enjoying a much-needed rest. While the rangers and their new-found friends are chat- ting merrily we will givoa few words of ex- planation. The twain whom Roman fell io with were two well-known Texan characters. One was True Bill, who had been with Jack in more adventures than one, and as soon as he knew his friend was in the region would not rest until he had found him. The second was Matt Burley, a veteran plainsman. Roman had been nothing loth to join them, and their ap- pearance upon the scene had been most oppor- tune. It was True Bill’s voice that had given the ringing cry following Jack’s rash to the fight. Of course there were many questions to be asked and explanations to be given. Roman soon learned to his astonishment that Dalia was his deliverer from the Comanches. When the brave girl saw him borne away a captive she resolved to save him if possible. Knowing that the savages would not long spare his life, immediate action was necessary. The course she adopted seemed the only one open to her. Accordingly,‘disguised as a Comanche chief, she entered boldly into the village of the Mad Chief as we have seen. After freeing Roman and seeing him likely to escape, she thar,” succeeded in getting clear herself, though she ran a narrow chance. & Maddened by the escape of the white, Tiger _ Heart hastened to the old hermit’s cabin, with ~ some of his warriors, believing that he or Dalia ~__ had been instrumental in cheating him of the What followed is already known. been all in all to her. her with words of consolation. And through her tears she looked up to him with trusting faith. 2s ‘* Poor father! I know he is better off,” she said; ‘but, oh, I shall miss him so much!”- ~~ ‘« But you shall havea home that shall be far Her gaze fell before his, and she turned away: her head. “Darling,” he cried, earnestly, fended you—have I spoken too hastily?” s ‘*No—no; not that. But you forget that I~ am only an ignorant forest girl who is no “SR tit——” : es ‘Please do not speak thus. I believe you are all that is good and true. You are beauti- ful beyond description, and I owe you a great debt. You have saved my life twice. But ; fore that—from the moment I first saw you—I loved you.” Spake Before she could reply a crash in a thicket near by them caused both to start back wi : cries of alarni. See: The next instant the Headless Mazeppa burst into view. With a wild glance backward the white steed bounded swiftly away. Roma gazed after it with wonder and grief. + ‘« When shall we learn the mystery?” he @ claimed, half aloud. “ Hope for the best,” said Dalia, gently lay- ing ber hand on his arm. ‘‘You have my sympathy and—my love,” a ‘*May Heaven bless you, darling mine!” he — cried, catching her in his arms and imprinting ee a kiss upon her lips. : Be ae ‘*See! the others have discovered the white horse,” said Dalia, gently freeing herself from his embrace. int oes The rangers had started to their feet and ~~ were gazing intently toward the mysterious object. aod “Tt beats all,” exclaimed Bill. ‘Me and Matt seed the critter and we tried to catch it, but somehow the tarnal thing was too quic enough for us.” ‘“‘Tt’s a long trail to the one who kapt declared Joe. ‘‘ Howsumever, Jack hyur he am the boy to do it.” “a “Tt oughter be done. But it am mighty queer. I could swear the chap is without a head and that he war dead, if I hadn’t seen him move.” 5 “Then he lives!” exclaimed Roman, joinin: them at this juncture with Dalia. ee ** Matt and I seed him move, didn't we, cl coon?” = “Sartin, but it beats me.” zi ‘Living, he must be rescued. I cannot de a lay here. I must follow and save my brother.” «Jest cool your narves till the horses get rested, then we will strike the trail.” pt «But the gal—she can’t go with us.” “Oh, yes, I can,” said Dalia. : ="¢ Jack shook his head. at “Tvs likely to be a long trail. We may ha’ to go beyond the ‘ dead plain,’ and that wi : into the Injun country.” oS “T tell ye,” said True Bill, ‘‘the gal can = keep with us till we get to the Brazos, whar L— think Ruxton’s Rangers are camped. They — will soon be going to the settlement, and she ~ We'll start at once,” d can go with ’em.” is ** Just the plan. ie clared Jack o’ the Plains.” Fas ‘An hour later the six were in the saddle and — heading westward. We shall not dwell upon” the particalars of the singular adventures that followed. Striking the course taken by the ae a. 22
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JACK O’ THE PLAINS. a@dless Mazeppa, they rode after the mys- famous horseman at a rapid gait. Twice they 6 in sight of the white steed, but both 3 it quickly disappeared from view. Half @ehour after starting they were surprised to iBeover a solitary horse standing beneath a an-treewnear the edge of a small growtb. iding forward with more caution, they ap- 5 tched the animal, which gave a shrill neigh they came nearer. Jack and Joe looked jon each other with surprise. *It looks like Grizzly Van's hoss!” exclaimed B first. Oy Wagh! it does!” they rode nearer they became more posi- ootie until they were finally convinced. ” * How came the creetur hyur?” Dunno. He seems to have been standing some time, and has tried hard to get free.” Let’s poke round a leetle.” hurried search was made around the place, though a man’s foot-prints were discovered, "$hey saw nothing of him. » *Hynr! the tracks go this way,” said Jack. » Let’s foller em, Joe, and mebbe we shall find " Sumthin’ to s’prise us. The rest had better Stay where you are.” er epick\y dismounting, the rangers followed | thie footprints, soon leaving their companions Out of sight. * CHAPTER XVIIL > Jack and Joe did not go very far before ) @0ming to a small stream, and lying near its . ‘ole ae oe *Mebbe he’s gone under,” said Joe, as they ; ised beside the silent figure. ‘No, great /Duifiers! he moves !” © "As he spoke the other slowly opened his eyes and moved feebly. _ * What, old coon, still kicking?” eee Wagh!” “A ihe monosyllable was uttered barely above a whisper, and the speaker seemed used up. **He’s been hit bad,” declared Jack, point- to a jagged wound in his breast, from Witich the blood had flowed freely. ©) “Say, how d’ye feel, old hoss?” >) Pm nigh ’bout rubbed out. I—” >. © Don’t fret, old beaver, and we'll put ye ~ round slick. I'll just fix up that hurt.” 4 ‘Before Jack had finished dressing Van’s > > wound the others had joined them. ; The wounded man was borne to a more com- “fortable resting-place, andlaid gently upon a blanket, when he declared that he felt bet- Se, . fa 7" the younker stay with Van and the while we rode down and see ef we can’t : the critter.” “ Roman would fain have gone with them, but y to their judgment. ; Wait oe minnit,” said Jack, “till I load Shooter with something of more vartue thao =e: ~ parting directions to their com- Rethethres rangers started on their un- erti Following the line of growtu, they » advanced without exposing themselves to view The country on their left : re broken, {though‘relieved by level tracts “diferent localities. The rangers soon came G plain sight of the white steed, when they ‘« Wal, you keep a bit to the left and Bill to the right. But afore you stir you'd better let me make a circle and get on the other side of the animal.” “Greed.” “Then don’t stir till you hear the gray backs’ cry.” With the words he headed his horse to the west and rode away. Keenly watching the surrounding scene, Jack kept on, being careful to keep out of sight and hearing of the Mazep- pa. Not till he was sure he had got beyond the line of the creature did he dare to ap- proach any nearer to the point where the white horse was still standing as far as he knew. Before him was an opening of several acres in extent, so that he was forced to leave the cover of the growth. Before he did so, however, he gave the signal agreed upon, and a moment later it was answered by his com- paniona, telling that they were ready for action. Jack then rapidly advanced, soon gaining the growth on the other side. At that instant he heard the sound of hoof-strokes. Realizing that the strange horse had become alarmed, he pressed forward more rapidly. A minute later the white’ steed burst into view!,coming directly toward him. Atsight of him the creature gave a loud snort, but did not turn aside. Jack was now in too close quar- ters to use his rifle successfully, and he spurred Wingfoot forward into the very path of the otber, hoping thus to intercept its flight. True Bill and Joe at this moment appeared on the scene and rushed swiftly to the capture. It seemed that the white horse must at last be- come a captive. But it proved otherwise. When almost upon Jack it turned aside. Still itcame so near that its white side brushed Jack's foot. He made a lunge to seize hold of its head. He missed. With a higher bound than ever the creature passed him. Wingfoot turned. Upon its heels he rushed, Then Jack did what he had no intention of doing at first. He gave pursuit. Wingfoot seemed eager for the fray. Scarcely a length behind the white steed sped the bay. Bill and Joe uttered cries of encour- agement to join in the wild race, Quickly leaving the growth, the Headless Mazeppa swept over the plain. Jack was so near that he saw the man move. Could he get nearer? Could he intercept the flight of the white steed? No horse on the plains was known that could equal its speed. Wingfoot could, if any. The gallant bay was doing his best. He hardly seemed to touch the prairie. For a time it seemed as if he was holding his own. Then Jack saw that he was losing—slowly but surely losing. **Faster, Wingfoot, faster!” Willingly the fleet-footed bay obeyed its mas- ter. It had caught the spirit of the race. It threw its whole power into the contest. In vain. AY, we must acknowledge the swift- footed steed had found Lis match. More than his match! Inch by inch he was losing ground. Jack soon realized this. Still he pressed on. His companions were following, though too far behind to benefit him, even had he needed their aid. Again he saw the Mazeppa move. This made him more determined than ever in his pursuit. At least a league was passed over. The only change ,in the race was what the bay had lost in distance. Jack saw that unless something turned up in his favor that his chase was hopeless. Wingfoot was beginning to show the effect of his fearful exertions. The white steed seemed as fresh asever. Until then Jack hadn’t attempted to use bisrifle. He shrank from shooting the beautiful creature which he could not help admiring. But it was no time for hesitation. He could not hope to win the race. He must do the next best thing. With Wingfoot still doing his best, Jack raised his rifle. He glanced along its gleaming bar- rel. The distance was so short that he could not miss his object. At last the strange white steed was doomed. Its race was surely run. With a rapid aim Jack pulled the trigger. A dull click followed. Nothing more. The weapon had missed fire. A cry of amazement left the ranger’s lips. The white horse sped forward faster than ever. raised his rifle. length. Once more its ominous muzzle covered 138 Wingfoot rallied and for a brief time gained on : the white. Jack o’ the Plains’ teeth clinched and his gaze shone wildly. With determined - purpose he reprimed his rifle. his time to get another shot at the flying horse. Again the Mazeppa moved. : Then he bided CHAPTER XIX, Dip the white steed bear a charmed life? Jack o’ the Plains believed it. Yet, with the dogged determination peculiar to his nature, he resolved to have another shot at the mys- terious animal. abandon the hopeless race. If that failed, then would he r Wingfoot was again losing ground. For a second time Jack Again his keen eye swept its the heart of the wild steed. Anew his trem- bling finger pressed the trigger. A second flash. The former dull click repeated. No ringing report. No death-cry. No change in the wild race. Still the white steed was un- scathed. Still the Headless Mazeppa was borne on to his doom. “A pallor swept over Jack’s face as he lowered his useless weapon. “It’s no use,” he exclaimed. ‘‘A silver bullet won’t touch it. The critter is a spirit, or’madeadcoon. Wingfoot, it is madness to chase it furder. @Easy, my boy, easy. You are the. best hoss on the plains, bul even you can’t chase down a living spook. No, it’s ag’in all nature. Let’s wait for the boys.” We know the bay was glad to obey, and as he halted his quivering form showed the effects of the fearful ordeal he had gone through. Seeing that the white horse was still pursuing its course, Jack turned to watch the approach of hiscompanions. It wasn’t long before they came up. ‘*Great bufilers, Jack, old hoss,’’ exclaimed True Bill, ‘‘the critter beat ye arter all, and we thought ye war sartin sure of it.” “<Wagh, it looks like it.” «* And ye tried yer shooter?” “Twice.” : ** And couldn’t fetch it?” **Nary onct.”- «Sho! I’m throwed.” “So am I.” «‘The white hoss must be a speerit.” *«T know it!” declared Jack, firmly. ‘‘ You all see me load my gun with that silver bullet, and I had two party shots, but my old iron that ain’t missed for nigh onto five year hung fire! Wagh, she did. I tell ye thar am somethin’ wrong. Iknow the critturis a spook. “Tain’t any use to go further. I don’t foller the trail any longer.” “Jt ain’t any use,” replied both Bill and Joe. é «But our hosses must hev a breathin’ spell. Leastways Wingfoot don’t feel like humping it back for a spell.” : ‘Then mebbe we had better ride up to yen- der growth and stop awhile.” To this the others agreed. The Mazeppa was still in sight, the white horse having slack- ened its gait to a walk. “The creetur won’t go much further to- night,” said Joe. “‘Mebbe not; leastway, it won’. hey to go very fur to git away from me.” Riding leisurely forward to the growfh, they dismounted to give the horses their freedom. Jack had now opportunity to examine his rifle, when to his surprise he found that a grain of sand had entered its tube, fitting so closely as to prevent the explosion of the powder in the barrel. ; *«Smoke and ashes!” he exclaimed, “that beats a dead Injun all holler.” 5 His companions were equally surprised. «That tells how ye kem to miss the hoss.” Jack o’ the Plains shook his head. “The weapon war bewitched or it would never have got thar.” “T say, boys,” said True Bill, ‘‘ what’s ’em?” and he pointed to the south. Several dark objects had appeared on the plain, and as they watched them they grew in size. «It’s horsemen—mebbe Injuns,” said Jack. ‘Or a party of white men!” ‘Likely as not itis Ruxton and his rangers,’
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a ETT ea ee ELE ee) ne 14 said Bill. ‘‘ Whoever they are, they are comin’ this way.” This last was a settled fact. It soon became evident, too, that they were a party of whites. They soon counted six riders. : ‘©They are Ruxton and the boys,” affirmed True Bill; ‘‘ at least-a part of the band.” Gladly did they await the approach of the thers. ‘finding, after a time, that they were likely to pass further to the left, Bill mounted his horse atid rode out to meet them. Nothing loth, as soon as they found they had friends in the vicinity, did the rangers change their urse. «« Well, this is indeed a surprise!” exclaimed the genial leader. «‘Here’s old Bill and Longfoot Joe, and— and Jack o’ the Plains, as I live!” “Oh, we've spotted a cur’us trail and seen sum of the tallest kind of doin’s.” ** How so? and how are the Comanches?” “The Kymunches are hoppin’.. Bat we reckon es the Mad Chief won’t corral any more skulps.” «« Why, hev you rubbed him out?” te ey Jack o’ the Plains, old boy, did it in the slickest kind of a way.” ‘“Phat’s good,” replied Ru#ton, “ Bub where are you bound next?” *" ~ fe =3 “We hey got friends bad Apa the Red Lands. As soon as our ho get rested we must start back. We hey just been trying to run dowa cur’us game,” fr “Not the Headless’ Mazeppa?” exclaimed Ruxton, in wonder. : **T reckon. Hey you seen the critter?” “Yes, and we jiave been since yesterday morning trying to hunt it down. But I fear it has given us the slip.” ‘Not very fur, captain. yender.” «+ What, near by?" ‘*Less’n a mile.” , «Then we are indeed fortunate. Come, will you go with us to capture the creature?” ‘* We will go,” said Jack. ‘But I tell you now it will be no use.” The hoss is a spirit.” “ Spirit or not, we will soon know.” “T know now,” said Jack, firmly. sumever, I am with you.” “«So are we,” declared Bill and Joe. “Good. Bat as your horses are well-nigh worn out, we will get on the other side of the Mazeppa while you three can approach him on foot and cut off his retreat in this direction.” The others were fain to agree to this, anda minute later they separated. Waiting until their mounted companions had time to get be- yond the Mazeppa, the three started rapidly toward the supposed stopping-place of the white horse. The setting sun threw its parting Tays across the plain with a sort of golden splendor, but the shadows were beginning to creep into the deeper forest. Eager to capture their prey before night should set in, the rangers quickened their fuot- steps, until suddenly a loud crash was heard in the sche ahead. . **It is coming this way!” cried Joe. ‘*Don’t waste any powder now.’ The hoof strokes came swiftly forward, and in breathless anxiety the rangers waited for the wild steed’s appearance. It was coming near- est to Jack, who poised his rifle and waited the fatal moment with strange forebodings. The next instant a white form bounded into sight. Jack raised bis rifle to fire, but the next mo- ment he lowered the weapon with a cry of amazement. His companions did the same. The white steed no longer bore upon its back the mysterious Mazeppa! It am just down ** How- JACK O’ THE PLAINS. CHAPTER XX. UNMOLESTED the white horse was allowed to continue its course in freedom. There was no need ‘to take its life now. The three gazed after the strange animal in silence until its spotless form was lost in the gathering gloom of night. Once more free, it swept on in all the wildness of its native freedom. ~ As it dis- appeared from view Ruxton and the others joined them. ; *« So the Headless Mazeppa has again eluded us?” “ as he was he must have perished. As it was he fully recovered to join his companions. im many a stirring scene. No consideration would cause Jack o’ the Plains to part with Wingfos “We or Redbird, the last having been given to Wi by Brazos Bert. Who can blame him? gallant steeds seemed to share with thein” master the spirit of the chase, and their forms” were no nncommon sight on the plains. 7 We have given the mystery of the M as far as it was ever solved. The mov the body, of course, was the result of the I ing of the ligatures that bound it, and it soon after torn from its position. Of the steed we have to a that, though often was never captured. As if bearing a cha life, and protected from captivity, it roame savannas and wild woods in freedom, soli and alone. Tae (THR END.] be aia in optics, pneumatics, m we ‘published. Price 10” postage free, on receipt of price. t 84 and 86 North Moore street, New “Yorkers % i i A - “ é