Five Cent Wide Awake Library (vol. 1) (1890 06 11)
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nq see dV Ee VENE } COMPLUET. § FRANK TOUSEY PueissEen, 344 386 Norte Moorr ‘ ies Nw York, June 11, 1890. issukD ccarding to Act of Congress, in the year 1890, ov FRANK TOUSEY, an the The Mystery of the Fire-Sbip; =
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By ROGER STARBUCK, CHAPTER I. ¥ THE STRANGE ‘BRIG. ‘Tue United States frigate Columbia, of lifty guns, lay becalmed in the Coral Sea, about ten LeBenee | to the eats of, the New Hebrides Islands, She was a Boston vessel, ranking first-rate of her class, and carried - a crew of five hundred men. At the time we write of she was tome-:of.- the Pacific’ ‘aquadron, ; and having touched at various ports, she was, now bound for ees Jand, New Zealand. ‘Her captain, Henry Marlow, was any experienced, sailor, and. alr her lieutenants were good, trustworthy Officers. cake The youngest warranted officer - aboaéd * above tlie Tae of mid: shipman was Tom Trueman, the sailing-master—a fine, manly youth of eighteen, much liked and respected wens shipmates Ge eee Dat At the early age of twelve he ‘had; father, who had been a colonel fin the regular army, ¢ obtained a mid- shipman’s warrant, and left his parents to follow th® fife of a sailor. - Devoted to his-calling, and excelling all his brother ‘*mids” j 2 jn? “ac- | quiring a knowledge of nautical affairs, he was soon passed—that ig * to say, he was ranked as passed midshipman. At sixteen, for general good conduct, he was made master’s mate, and finally a noble, daring deed on his part led to his being promoted to sailing-master. The praiseworthy act alluded to was his saving _ the life of little Jack, the nephew of ‘Commodore Smith, of the frigate Warrior, aboard of which Trueman was then ‘master’s mate. The boy, a midshipman, fell into the sea during a heavy gale of | wind, and knowing the youngster could not swim, Tom plunged over- board and held him until a cutter, with great difilculty in such a temp- est, arrived from the ship and picked up the twain, with Trueman nearly in the last stage of exhaustion. A few months after his pro- motion to sailing-master, the Warrior having reached Boston, and her _ crew having been discharged, Tom went away aboard the Columbia, little dreaming of the singular adventures he was destined to encoun- ter during this voyage. __ It was just a year after leaving her home-port when the Columbia lay becalmed as already stated in the Coral Sea. Farin the distance before the breeze died away the crew had seen : a brig whose singular yawing motions puzzled them all. It was evident that her wheel was deserted. Not a soul could be detected about her decks. ee THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP: ees ake Subseription Price of Tum Wine Awake Liprary vy the year is $2,50: $1,25 per six months post ate Address FRANK TOU ’ PUBLISHER, $4 and 36 North Moore Street, New York. Box 2730. @ Mystery of the Fire-§ _A Brave Boy ae Master. ~= The piping voice of the little midshipman, thus questioned ugh” ‘the exertions of his At last a puff of air rippled the sea. rs ‘«Main-top, there?” hailed Tom Trueman, who had the watch ‘« Ay, ay, sir!” bawled the captain of the top. ‘‘Which way have you the wind aloft?” “Lightly from the south and east, sir?” “Now hail the midshipman at the main; Mr. Trueman, and what he sees,” said Captain Marlow. Through his trumpet Tom roared:, 3 «Aloft there, Mr. Trumble, what do ‘you see?” shrilly down from: the to’ gallant crosstrees. ; “There are people lying upon her deck, sir.” =att Square'the yards!” cried the captain, as the breeze freshe' As Tom repeated the order, the alter guard and other nimble sprung to the braces. = ‘The cathéads, the booms and the Oe were soon alive with men, all gazing toward. the sitange vessel the ship was approaching. When near énowgh the spectators beheld a scene that MSE with horror.. _ The pérsons visible on the brig’s deck were apparently deat Gashed and cut about their bodies they lay in various posi : ‘Luff there! luff you can!” ordered the frigate’ 8 captain. “Luff it is, sir,” answered he grisly old quartermaster: wheel. “Down with the first cutter!” was the next order as the ship up into the wind. A midshipman skipped forward to carry the last comman' boatswain, whose pipe was then heard shrilling through the a followed by the hoarse voice of his mate. ‘Away there, first cutters, away!” The boat was lowered and into her tumbled her crew, The captain chose to head the boat on this occasion, accom} only by his sailing-master, Tom Trueman. As the Columbia’s main yard had been hauled aback, she lay hailing distance of the brig when the aces boarded the latt Tom followed him to the deck. There were, as TRS about twelve dead men in all gg the Kal, “Tn my opinion there has beon mutiny. Trueman?”
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Tom, with a shudder, pointed toward an object wedged between two roken spars. on the lee side of the eae decks: heap of canvas. a first glance so much did the face resemble an ape’s, that it an half-naked limbs, though covered with hair, were those of a j an being. “The skull had been nearly cloven by an ax or hatchet. ‘But the strange creature had clung to his spear to the last, and it jas. still in his right hand. “ It was a formidable weapon, very sharp and slightly g green near the it, a8 if tipped with poison. In my opinion,,” said Tom, the vessel was attacked by some party ‘of ferocious islanders, and the dead man was one of the number.” “ robably you are right,” replied the frigate’s commander, ‘but I Gi not know there were any such beings on the islands about us.” tis then a mystery, sir, as to where this fellow came from?” Yes, sir; it is. I have heard that there used t5 be a race of bab- jon-faced, dwarfish men on Manicola Island, but according to all ‘accounts, none of them are to be found now. They were all exterm- ed by the Spaniards and the savages of another island.” ua This isa Spanish vessel, sir,” said Tom. ‘+ It looks as if some of he strange people you speak of still existed, and that they have at- acked this craft from motives of revenge.” “True. The dead seamen about us are evidently Speniards, and essel, which bears the name of St. Mary, is a Spanish craft. But ust confess that the ferocious race I ulluded to are no more.” or some time longer the young sailing-master and his commander inly endeavored to solve the seeming mystery. : Then-the captain hailed the frigate, ordering some men to come to remove the dead and repair the cut rigging aboard the brig. ed overboard, and the man-of-war’s men turned their heads with a idder as the dead were dragged beneath the surface by swarms of vi Foompieisa _ The lights of the frigate could be seen about two railed off. ‘om headed for her, ashe had been ordered to do. The night was very dark, but he had the wind in his favor. at once, as Tom stood by the man at the wheel, he beheld rough the cabin skylight an unconth form like that of the dead na- ive who had been dropped overboard with the other bodies. ie - The person he saw was evidently one of the same people to whom the dead man had belonged. - He had been hidden in the hold from which he had now suddenly emerged. In one hand he held a flaming torch—a piece of a tarred stay, which he had probably lighted by the cabin lamp—in the other was his spear. _ In an instant Tom comprehended his intention. A part of” the “vessel’s cargo consisted of guapowder, stowed in the run. _ Whe native stooping, seized the ring of the run hatch to raise it, and the youth was thus aware that he meant to blow up the craft. Unsheathing his sword, the young sailing-master ran down into the cabin. ' - But the savage had already lifted the hatch and tossed his torch i epmote the kegs of powder. “On deck there!” foard Tom. “The brig is going to blow up!” -The hideous ape-faced man gave a snarling ery, and darted through the cabin window—a large one—which was open. _As he plunged into the sea, Tom followed him. g Jam ‘* Jump overboard for your lives! THE MYSTERY OF ‘old sailor. THE FIRESHIP. A bolt of iron passed through the brain of the native, and turning a somersault, he disappeared, head downward, beneath the sea, For several moments Tom was surrounded by the flying debris of the shattered craft. But fortunately he remained untouched. All the men aboard except one, whose foot had caught in a ring- bolt, had escaped death by the sailing- master’ 8 timely order to them to jump overboard. . They were good swimmers, and a cutter, with a lieutenant from the frigate, finally picked them up. Tom described to the lieutenant how the native had scoomplished his disastrous work. eet ‘* Well, there’s an end to him and to the brig also,” said ther cer. “ Now, then, it is pretty sure that we’ll never learn where Um strange peuple came from.” At that moment’a faint cry was heard from the sea. By the light of the boat’s lantern a scorched, half-blackened; Abc was seen above a spar, to which the owner was clinging. iy This person being helped into the cutter, declared, in a Seal ree pirate audible voice, that he was Captain Carlos, and had been master and owner of, the brig. He was now in a dying condition, but he lived long enough to make a few explanations, Accompanied by his daughter Bella, of fifteen, he had sailed from Cartegena, Spain, bound for Manilla. On the night before this one, he had been attacked by swarms of strange, dwartish ape-faced men, ‘‘In canoes?” asked the lieutenant. **No, strange to say, they ran alongside of us in a fine, clipper-built schooner. They commenced at once to slaughter us and cut up our rigging. I escaped death by falling into the hold, far down among a heap of spars and sails, where I lay for some time unconscious. When I regained my senses, I thought of my daughter and spoke her name. But I was so badly hurt that my voice was very faint. That is why you did not hear me when you came aboard, though I called to you. Have you seen my child?” es No. ” “Then St. Mary help her! She has been carried off by those horrible human monsters! Promise me you will try to find and rescue her!” ‘“That may be impossible. We have no clew,” said the lieutenant. ‘Besides, she may not be alive.” - A look of such terrible agony convulsed the dying man’s face, that Tom, with the warm impulse of a generous boy, cried out: - “Ay, ay, sir. I promise, if I have the chance, to look for your daughter.” The sufferer grasped his hand. “Then I die content,” he said, and a few seconds later, he breathed his last. CHAPTER “II. THE FIRE-SHIP. THE brig’s dead captain was conveyed to the frigate, and to the lat- ter’s commander Tom gave all necessary explanations. The deceased, with weights attached. to the feet to sink the body, was launched overboard. Then Captain Marlow held a consultation with his officers, and it was resolved that an attempt should be made to discover the brig’s mysterious assailants. So long as they were not ‘arrested and punished any merchant ves- sel, it would seem, was liable to be pounced upon by them, and her crew murdered. Under easy sail the frigate was kept along, heading toward a group of islands to the north and east.” Just before dawn Tom was forward Ge Ns the posting of the lookonts for the morning watc3. ‘© A queer affair, sir,” remarked an old sheet-anchor-man who stood near him. ‘‘D’ ye think them natives was after plunder or what?” ‘* Both plunder and revenge,” answered the young officer. ‘It seems they took off the Spanish captain’s darter,” added the — “She mnst have been a fine-looking lass, if this be her — pictur,” he added handing Tom a small likeness, “I found this after the man was launched overboard, lying | on deck. 20 must have arop- ped from his jocket.”” Shae th % 3
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THE peas “Tom examined the little portrait by the light of a lantern. A beautiful girl,” he said, as he was about to return the likeness to the seaman. ‘(Keep it, sir; keep it,” said the man. man like you shouJd have it than such an old hulk as I am. just the sort a young girl like that would take a fancy to, you see, and as you're going to s’arch for her, why her beauty may urge you to make great exartions to look for her, and —— “There, Ben, that will do,” interrupted the sailing-master. ‘Humanity, to say nothing alone of my duty as an American naval officer, would be sufficient to induce me to use every effort to find and e the girl.” Well spoken, sir,” replied Ben, gazing with admiration at the boy. s neat, well-titting uniform, his erect, muscular frame, his hand- ome, manly face, with its dark, spirited eyes, expressing frankness ‘resolution, gave him the air of a trusty, noble young seaman. r about half an hour after posting the lookouts, he stood upon orecastle peering through the gloom. je“outline of an island now was seen looming up far ahead, and the boy noticed that the frigate, in spite of a good breeze, made but little way against a current which was setting toward her. He went aft to the lieutenant of the watch. ‘J would advise getting a lead over the side, sir,” he said, ‘‘as we are drawing so close to the island ahead.” ‘« Ay—ay, sir, do so,” responded the lieutenant. Tom soon had & man in the chains. «¢ Heavel” he shouted, and the lead was thrown. “« By—the—mark—ten!” bawled: the leadsman. Again he hove the lead and his hoarse voice quickly followed. _ * And a half nine!” “ Again. Heave away that lead!” The third throw was given, and the result was quickly reported. “By the deep eight.” «* We seem to be on the way for shoaling, sir,’ Tom remarked the lieutenant. d ‘We will have to go in stays then,” said the person addressed. ‘«‘ However try the lead again, sir.” The report after the fourth throw was presently made. “ And a half seven.” ~ The lead was now cast rapidly, and as the depth steadily decreased Tom finally received the order for staying (tacking). The rattling of tacks and sheets with the flapping of the huge canvas was heard, and the ship was gathering way on her changed course, when the hoarse cry of the man on the lookout was heard. “Shoal right ahead.” « What do you see?” shouted Tom, running forward. «A gand-bank, or something of that kind, slr,” was the reply. Tom, peering through the gloom, could see a whirl of white, phos- phorescent water through which showed something dark. Whether this was a rock, or a sand bank, he could not determine. ‘Port, there, port!” he cried in a ringing voice. The order was obeyed. But ere the frigate could answer her helm, she grazed against some- thing which emitted a metallic sound. Then, all at once, a dark object arose from the sea close alongside of her. The light of the frigate’s lantern falling upon it, showed it to be ap- parently the hull of an iron vessel. It was about thirty feet long, shaped forward something like the head of a sword fish, with a dead-light on each side and in front of the sharp pointed bow. The dead-lights at the side suddenly became illuminated, resembled the eyes of some fierce, terrible sea monster. ' Brighter did they gleam every moment, until they | looked like red- hot balls of fire. The men of the watch eneard the frigate exchanged glances of A8- tonishment, * Never before had they seen so strange a spectacle. _ Strange ana mysterious it certainly was. t - Yhe hull had risen like magic from under the surface of the sea, and there it now was, with the sharp sword-fish like vows Beaded for the ‘frigate amidships, as if tocut herin two. ; Eyen ‘Tom, for a moment, tood like one paralyzed. a Sa a =| “ Better a young gentle- to Youre MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP. But his was not a nature to long remain thus appalled either i face of common or unnatural perils. : »Whatever the thing was that was driving straight for the frig: certainly was a thing to be avoided, and the young sailing‘m having solicited and obtained from the lieutenant permission a ® maneuver the vessel, now exerted himself to keep the ship clear An uneartbly buzzing noise issued from the iron hull, as i proached. ‘Evidently there was strange machinery at work to propel this which showed neither steam pipe, mast or sail. ‘¢Hard-a-starboard! A pull on the weather braces!” shouted. youth, through his trumpet. : As the huge vessel luffed, the irom hull went glidding past ne ; most grazing her counter. : Then all at once, long tongues of fire were seen to shoot up Mar the decks of the singular craft. a * Higher and higher they rose, now and then spreading outward | flaming serpents. i ‘‘Up helm! square yards!’’shouted Tom, as the dangerous flames: most touched the frigate’s shrouds, The Columbia fell off, as the nimble tars obeyed orders, but round came the fire ship in chase of her. * Tom advised the lieutenant to pile on everything, and soon shrill pipe of the boatswain’s mate was heard, followed by the o «Aloft and loosen all! Away, there, you topmen, away!” . In an instant the yards were covered with nimble forms, and u ade 2 royal skysuils and studdingsails fore and aft, the huge frigate, roa) rin ng like a live thing as her bows parted the water, was speeding aw from that strange fire-fiend of the sea now astern of her. Ai So great was the speed of the fire ship that it seemed to gain on chase. . The captain having been called, was now on deck. : Booms, bows and rigging were full of seamen and little mids) men, all gazing curiously toward that mysterious flaming hull as ‘« We will try it with a few phots said the captain. “Tt is guih on us.” ? 3 In fact the blazing craft was already perilously near the frigate: Sam Jones, an experienced old gunner of the ship, soon had a fo ponnder on th gun-deck pointed toward the pursuing hull. The flames from the latter seemed to shoot up to the very heavens: lighting the sea for miles. Now and then they would cross each 0 or twine together like live things, emitting a loud hissing nois I they steamed far out to the fugitive vessel. 'e “Hire,” roared the gnuner, as soon as the piece was careli sighted. es The booming of the gun was heard, and a loud crash and One dicated that the shot had struck the iron bull. $ But it still came sweeping on. “ Again!” shouted the captain. Load!” roared the gunner, and in a few seconds the report of , piece a second time shuok the frigate. a Though the ards was struck by this shot also, a speed was ob avated. It was now so close to the frigate that the heat of the flames oh be felt by the man-o’- warsmen. fy ‘‘ We are lost if it gets afoul of us!” cried the vane its Port there aa Way ty tenant, These commands were obeyed, but as the frigate chaioel her cou the fire-ship changed hers to correspond with it. ; ‘What can it mean?” cried the astonished captain. “Some huma being must be directing the movements of that vessel, and yet ES Can anyone live aboard that burning craft?” ; A few of the superstitious old sailors exchanged ominous glances. ; “The frigate’s doomed. Better take to the launch and cut ong cried one. “Ay, ay. We don’t want to stay here to be burned or roasted 0 blown up,” said another. i It was not intended that these words should reach the s eapta ears. ; shes 4 Nevertheless he heard them. iver reais _ “Call up your men!” he said to ule ligutenant of panane i : ti cones :
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THE se meng cried the captain to the sailors, Racine a few steps “forward, ‘JT haye to tell you that the first one of you who refuses to Obey orders or to incite the rest to disobedience will be shot down.” ‘ ) Dhere was a dead silence for a few moments. ee => Then aman named Horlins—one of the most desperate characters ~ aboard the ship, said boldly: Saal You haye no right to force us to remain aboard longer. We “shonldl take to the boats. I, for one, will not lay my hand on rope or brace again.” ‘Arrest that man: said the captain to the master-at-arms. - But Horlins sprang into the main rigging and nimbly mounted aloft. Seyeral sailors were sent in pursuit of him. One of them, ahead of the others, soon was close to the fugitive, snow was out at the end of the top-gallant yard. is drooped sideways. ‘Then, as his lashings were burned through, he fell into the sea, his noking clothes, which had caught fire, making a hissing sound as he sank. en the ship taking the flames upon her yards, seemed about to become OHAPTER III. A DARING DEED. “The only way is to anchor that craft. I will try to. do it.” And lose your life i in the attempt.” See ‘Go on, then, and God help you,” said the captain. Tom gave instant orders to the forecastle men to stand by to cut Way the frigate’s large anchor—the right bower. E ortanates, a slight change of wind was now sending the flames a ittle away from the war vessel. Tom hoped this would continue until he had time enough to accom- oh h his intention. aes, His men worked the oars with a will, and in less than a minute he “But no dangling rope "was there to enable him to clamber aboard. Meanwhile so great was the heat that he could scarcely breathe. ein he and his crew suffered intensely. ae not the flames being blown forward the seamen would have MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP. =. “i and by means of the pole clambered aboard the hull, whi not rise more than eight feet above the surface of the sea. The moment he got aboard he was lost to the view of the men in the cutter. But it was evident that the hawser was fastened, for the forecastle men seeing him make, as they supposed, a sigral with his upraised arm, let go the anchor from the frigate and the fire-ship was found to be anchored. The Columbia, forging further from the blazing hull, many fathoms from it. © Her main yard now was again hauled aback, and the captain awaited the return of the sailing-master. But Tom did not appear in sight even of his shipmates aboard the - cutter. E His crew called him in vain. There was no response. The wind soon changing, the heat of the flames now coming thy way, drove them from their position, ‘*We must save him!” cried the coxswain, who like most all the sailors, was much devoted to Tom. ; A slight shifting of the fire enabled him to make a dash toward the iron hull- But at that moment the fire ship, to the astonishment of all the spectators, suddenly vanished from their sight. Down it went into the sea, disappearing in a cloud of steam caused by the contact of the flames with the water. ce It sank as suddenly and mysteriously as it had risen, “Great God?” cried Captain Marlow as he looked toward the clouds of vapor, ‘‘the craft has sunk and with her, Mr. Trueman, our brave sailing-master!” ‘«My belief is that he perished a moment after he boarded her—that he dropped overcome by the heat,”’ said the lieutenaut. ‘* Noble boy, he died to save us!” cried the captain. ** After all, how know we that he is dead, sir?’ remarked the lieutenant. The captain stared at the speaker. ‘How could he live, sir, under water, even if he did not perish ere the vessel sank?” “‘He may have risen to the surface after the craft went down, sir.” ‘«Then he would be scalded to death by the steam.” ‘Might not he have risen away from its influence, sir?” “T think not. But there’s the cutter pulling about now,” added the captain, pointing out that boat’s lantern through the gloom. Half an hour later the cutter came alongside. Many an anxious glance was cast toward her by the watch aboard the frigate. Then there was a cry of disappointment. Tom, the gallant young sailing-master, was not there. ‘“‘T think he must be lost, sir,” said the coxswain, as he saluted the captain on boarding the ship. ‘¢ Alas, how could it be otherwise?” the captain sadly answered. The frigate lay ‘‘ off and on ” the spot where the fire-ship had dis- appeared, but although it was now dawn, and the sea was carefully searched, the sailing-master’s body was not found. All at once, however, on a reef near an island, not a league dis- tant, a human form was descried. The ship was headed that way, but the little midshipmen who were aloft with their glasses, tinally announced that the person seen was not Mr. Trueman, It was Horlin, who, after jumping from the frigate, must have swam to that place. A cutter, with corporals and marines, was sent to the reef, but Horlin now could not be found. His hat and necktie were seen floating in the midst of a swarm of sharks, and it was thought that he had become the victim of Ee monsters. The boat returned to the frigate, which was put upon her former course, by a saddened crew, for there was not a man aboard who did not mourn the loss of Tom Trueman. Most of the men believed that he nae been overcome by the heat, ere the fire-ship went down. . They were right in their conjecture. On boarding the iron hull, Tom had just time to secure the hawser to a ringbolt on the deck, when he found the heat Insupportable and fell.” After that he knew no more until he came to his senses, to discover he was soon
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HE MYSTERY OF He staggered to his feet, and some moments passed ere he could ~ recall his scattered recollections. Then he remembered his boarding the fire-ship, and was puzzled to account for his being in this place. He looked about him, and perceived that he was on an island with a reef not for off, extending parallel with the beach. In the distance he could see a ship, and his keen gaze soon assured him that this was the frigate. ‘He left the cave, intending to ascend a rock, and with his kerchief, signal the vessel. 1 But as he was about to ciimb the rugged elevation, the form of a ng man emerged from behind it. ¢Horlins!” cried Tom. ‘Ay, ay, sir. Here Iam.” - ‘How came you here?” =%7 swam to this place after dropping overboard.” "© You will return with me to the frigate?” “Will I? I don’t think I will, sir.” «You must. I insist upon it.” ‘How are we going to get there?” ‘: They will send a boat for us after I signal the ship.” « You'll not signal the ship.” “Not signal her?” “No. Tl not permit it.” Horlins pulled his sheath-knife from his belt as he spoke. Tom instinctively felt for his sword, but he suddenly remembered that he had found himself deprived of this—his only weapon—when » he came to bis senses. > “See here,” said Horlins. ‘‘ I’m going to Lave things my own way now, or it will be the worse for you.” He was a tall, powerful fellow and Tom was somewhat weakened by his late mishap. Neyertheless, prompt and resolute at all times, he was determined to do his duty. { < Put down that knife,” he said. Horlins laughed defiantly. ‘¢You’re not aboard the ship,” he said. give orders now.” As hespoke he rushed toward the young officer with eyes gleaming like a tiger’s. Tom had noticed a small bowlder lying near him, _ He picked it up and hurled it at his assailant, As the latter held up his arms toshield his head the piece of rock struck them, and his knife flew from his benumbed hand into thesea. In a moment Tom had closed with him and the two fellupon the sand. z Horlins struggled fiercely. The injury his arm had suffered gave his opponent the advantage. The youth soon had him under him, with both knees upon his breast and a hand upon his throat. ‘Now, Horlins, promise to obey my orders, or I will have to kill you. Under the circumstances it is my duty!” ‘‘T promise,” sullenly gasped the half-choked desperado. “Get up, then,” said Tom, as he let go of the man and sprang to his feet. ‘ At.that moment he received a blow on the head from behind and fell senseless, s A dwarfish man with a hideous, ape-like face, had sprang from be- hind a rock and dealt him the blow with the butt of a spear. This person had a similar appearance to that of the dead man aboard the Spanish vessel. Horlins, who had arisen, started back as the savage pointed his ppeer - toward him. - “Hold!. What would you do?” he said. ‘‘I am no friend to this naval officer, or to any of the people aboard the frigate!” An ugly leer distorted the hairy visage of the islander. ‘Why no friend?” he said. “‘ Because I have been what’s called a ‘prison bird,’ and my ship- mates and the apes all knowing it, have treated me eh from the first. a ree, “Want revenge?” Y; that’s SU 1 would Ake cried Hons fiercely. ; = “You'llfind’m the one to eS Twice ‘THE FIRESHIP. Wepre have I been tied up in the rigging of that frigate and floge would like to pay off my grudge.” “Good,” said the islander. ‘* Perhaps you be made one of ‘as, ‘* Who do you mean by us?” . ‘« Know by and by. Come with me.” _ ‘‘But you hayven’t killed him yet,” said Horlins, pointing: & prostrate form of the young officer. “Thurline would have it so. She said not to kill.” «Who is Thurline?” as a blind man before Hookah lead you to our chief.” So saying the islander took off the sailor's kerchief, and tied itt ly over his eyes. Then grasping his hand he led him onward. : Not long after, Tom regained his senses, and arose. P His head, bruised by the blow he had received, was painful GiZZy. He bathed it in the Sea, however, and félt much relieved. He could still see the frigate in the distance, and again: ho der. Then Tom beheld at his side a middle-aged man with fierce and a stern, heavily-bearded visage. CHAPTER IY. THE MEETING. the appearance of a pirate. He wore a skull cap, o jacket open in front, ornamented with b buttons, and lvose flowing trousers, the latter corfined about | waist with a broad belt, in which were thrust a pistol and a swo «‘ Who are you?” inquired Tom. : oat ‘Tam Captain Rulok, of the fire-ship.” ‘*Of the fire-ship?” ‘¢Yes, and I had you at my mercy in the hold of my vessel not Id since. There I conveyed you after you fell, overpowered by the : aboard the craft. I would have killed you for balking me by anchor ing my vessel had not it been for my adopted daughter, Thurline “©? did my duty. But tell me,” added the youth, whose curios! was now aroused, ‘‘how you contrive to exist in and to navigat burnirg ship?” The other smiled. . “Jt is simple enougk. You have proved yourself an expert fF: pallgny seaman. Join me and my wild band and your life sha spared.’ . «No, I may as well tell you, first as last, that I will never join ay such band.” : “You prefer, then, to suffer death?” said the man, arawinee ph from his belt, and cocking 1t. ‘‘You have learned too much ab my affairs to live.” “«T have learned that you are a sort of pirate, commanding af ship—that you attack and plunder vessels, besides varying th pastime by now and then burning such craft as try to interfere with your lawless proceedings.” «You are partly right, but it is the Spaniards—the persecuto my unfortunate race—whom I usually attack and kill.” ‘Surely you are not of the race of the ape-like islanders,” ‘tT am of their race, on my mother’s side, but my father wa Scotchman who married one of their best looking women. He wa castaway, who, adrift in a boat, came to this island. Ere lo hidden in caves and holes among the mountaias, he discovered remained of the ape-faced people, who had been thought to be extin The Spanish residents of the island, which they had named Manicé believed they had killed all these people, but they were mistak Under leadership of my father, who, after his marriage espoused t) cause, they surprised the Spaniards here, and dispatched every ont them with with knives and spears. When I was old enough to les them, my father sent me to an English ship-builder, at New Guin to learn the trade. The builder said that I had genius. Fina after I had saved money, I planned the fire-ship you have seen. employer, as soon as I had constructed the ship, at my expense, t to rob me of my plans, so that he could secure a- patent for iis benefit. Determined to. keep my secret, I killed him, | car During my absence. my mother and fat! to this island.
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Buy - THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRESHIP. a stabbed to death by the boat’s crew of a Spanish vessel, and this " roused anew within me the desire I had long entertained of avenging my persecuted people.” “But why do you try to burn American ships?” as. I only do so when they interfere with me, as was the case with "your frigate, and I will yet burn and blow her up, unless she goes off - without trying to molest me further. Now, then, you have heard all I am willing to tell you,” the speaker added, ‘*and if you -have any- _ thing to say to me ere I shoot you down you can do so.” -_*T have nothing particular to say, but I have something to do,” an- _ gwered the boy, as with a sudden movement he pushed the man off the ~~ rock. Falling upon the sand, he was not much hurt, but hearing ap- proaching footsteps, Tom thought his best plan, unarmed as he was, ~ would be to conceal himself until he should have a chance to signai his ship, which was now hidden by a mist, -.He sprang from the elevation, which was about ten feet high, on the side opposite the one on which the man had fallen, and seeing a » hollow in a rock, he crept into it. : As he did soa bowlder, evidently moved by some person above, _ came rattling down over the opening, thus closing it. Who had moved the bowlder so as to thus shut him in? He could soon hear the captain of the fire-ship running about, with angry exclamations, as he looked in vain for him. * At last he no longer heard him and judged that he had left the ~ place. The bowlder now was moved aside and Tom’s gaze fell upon a fe- - male face at the opening. _ He emerged from the hollow and beheld a young girl before him, _ She was slender and of small stature, but very womanly in appear- ance. _ Her regular features were full of expression, and lighted by a pair of large, dark eyes, which, contrasting with her long, drooping brown ier Bit added to her heanty. She wore a, silk robe, confined about the waist with a sash, in which were thrust a dirk and a pistol. -‘*T am glad you have awakened,” she said, in a clear musical voice. es ‘Then noticing his surprise, she added: “My name is Thurline. Iam a Malay girl—the adopted daughter of Captain Rulok of the fire-ship. My parents who had come to this i island, died when I was seven years old. Then Captain Rulok, who Ans Svas friendly to them, took care of me and taught me (o read and speak Bnglish. Now those wild ape-face:l people haye made me their queen.” - “Tt was you, probably, who saved my life while I was senseless aboard the fire-ship?” said Tom. ' «Yes. My father would have killed you had not I interfered. I 2 ‘told him that if he spared your life, you might be persuaded to join “is. He conveyed you to a cave on this island, intending to leave you “there, watched by one of his party-—one of the ape-faced men—until you should recover. The breeze soon brought you to, after which the watcher, exceeding his instruciions, knocked you again senseless with the butt of his lance. He then went away and told my father, who re- paired to this place to try and induce you to join our band. Your re- fusal would, as you know, have cost you your life, had not you pushed him off the rock. I saw you do this from a short distance, and it was who rolled the bowlder down over the mouth of this cave after you crept into it.” » «J thank you for saving my life,” said Tom ‘ and will bestill more thankful if you can furnish me with a canoe to enable me to get to my ; ship.” ~ Your ship is far from here,” answered Thurline. «T think I could find her.” No, there is now a mist upon the water, you would be lost. But come with me, I will take you where I know of a good place of con- cealment, there you shall have food and rest.” Tom followed his guide. ; She conducted him to a part of the beech where lay a small hut. The thick mist which now had gathered would have concealed the two from the view of any person in their vicinity. “This is the first place in which my enemies would ee for me,” said the youth. Oh, no, for it is my home—sacred to me abies the queen of the island people here, ‘None of them, not even my father, ever enters. : Go a she ges pening. the door. ‘‘I must leave you for the ? ’ present. You will find food on a table, and you can res ‘on a mat S which is also in the room.” ; The young oflicer entered the hut, which was neatly though plainly furnished. On the table which Thurline had alluded to he saw satne delivions bread-fruit, besides other simple refreshments of which he partook. Then, feeling weak and drowsy after so many trying adventures, he lay down on the mat and fell asleep. Not long after he had closed his eyes a man emerged from a cin of shrubbery on one side of the little dwelling. It was Horlins, who, having looked carefully round him to make sure he was not observed, stole to one of the windows of the hntand peered into it. Es “Asleep! It is well, tered the sailor. chief has given me a canoe, in which I am to cruise about as the lookout for sails. Lucky it was that I saw that girl wh islanders call their queen conduct Mr Trueman to this hut, a give me a chance to pay him off for the way he treated me on t 1e- beach. He shall not live to ever lord it over me‘again. I hate every officer aboard the frigate, and would willingly kill each one if I had the chance.” ; From a water-proof safe in his pocket he took a match, with which he set fire to the hut. The light, ¢ry wood burned rapidly, and Tom, awakened by the glare and smoke, sprang up, to find himself nearly surrounded by flames. With all his strength he threw himself against the thin woodwork in front of him. z It gave way, and he dashed out into the open air. ‘ He heard wild voices which seemed to draw nearer. : Evidently a party of natives had noticed the gleam of the fire and were approaching. Tom hurried on, when he was suddenly confronted by Horlin near: the edge of u cave, which he had been about to enter, The ruffian aimed a fierce blow at his heart with his knife, but the young officer avoided it, and knocking his assailant senseless with his fist, he sprang into the cave. He fell almost head first, for the floor of the cavern had a sharp de- scent. It was of smooth rock, and he found himself rolling rapidly down- ward, Vainly. did he endeavor to check his course; there was nothing to afford him a hold. At last, after a long descent, his further progress was stopped, for he had now reached the bottom of this cave or pit. f Dizzy and half stunned, he didn’t fully recover himself until some minutes had passed. Then he rose to his feet and looked about him. The little light reaching him afforded him a dim view of the retreat. — He was in a damp passage, the ground of which was of sand, strewed with shells. Its appearance denoted that at times the place was flooded. Probably the sea-water poured into the retreat through the opening above at high tide. Realizing his peril, he looked at the rocky floor down which he had - rolled, but perceived © at once th at it was too steep and slippery to ascend, Hoping to tind some way of egress he moved onward. The place grew darker as he advanced. It seemed to him as if there was no end to the passage, Suddenly he beheld a light. It was a lantern held by some person who was advancing. Tom was surprised to discover that this person was a female, As she drew nearer he noticed that she was very young, evidently not more than fifteen. / She was of dark complexion, with long raven hair falling over her shoulders, and large black eyes full of ey and BAYES HO In fact, she was a beautiful girl. CHAPTER V. A PRISONER. 2 On seeing Tom the girl paused, and uttered a cry of fear. thee sy But the next moment, as she noticed his uniform, a us of relief OS her lovely face. j dar
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THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRESHIP. washed over the feet of the twain. c) you? “How came you here?” inquired the girl. ~ God help us!” said Bella. The youth explained, and the girl then said; ‘The water rose still higher. “You are in peril and so am I. I came here to escape Thurline, Presently it was up to the girl’s waist. ; who has made me her slave, and who treats me very harshly.” “ Perhaps it will recede before it can drown us,” said Tom, hopes’ ‘ Tom soon learned that this girl, as he had suspected from her re- | fully. ; semblance to the miniature portrait old Ben had given him, was Bella “Qh, no; it will rise nearly to the opening above us, not until tlie? Carlos, the daughter of the Spanish captain, whose vessel had been | wij] it begin to recede, passing off through some secret outlet, wh attacked by the islanders. it seems is unknown.” *T promised your father that I would look for you,” he said, after At length the water was up to Bella’s neck. Be. had described his meeting with her parent, ‘‘and that I would try | ‘Tom then lifted her to a rugged shelf on one side of the passage. © ue you.” At the same moment he heard an angry voice: ‘ se owed from Bella’s eyes when she heard of her father’s death. ‘¢ Hah! so my slave and the young officer have met!” ; gone. [aman orphan now,” she sobbed, He looked up, to see Thurline standing on the edge of the opening, which had been alluded to as affording a view of the islander’s cave The little queen’s eyes flashed fiercely. are very kind, _ Sit, but I fear you will find it a hard task to ‘«Save that ginlt cried Tom. ‘Surely you will not. leave he a perish!” *¢T will save you, but she shall die.” Was the answer. Turning, she shouted to one of the ape-faced men to bring a rope. She was obeyed, and fastening the rope to a rocky spur, she ove it. Lat ‘Take hold and climb,” she called & the sailing-master! s ‘© Not unless you consent to save this young lady, too!” cried Tom, i “T tell you she must die!” said Thurline, stamping with one of her little feet. The youth mounting to the rocky shelf, fastened the rope abou Bella’s waist. ‘«Now haul!” he cried, as he seized the line. : Thurline ordered some of her men to pull on the rope. oe # The moment Tom had reached the opening, however, he only woes drawn in off the line. ‘¢ Now down to your death, slave of a Spanish girl!” cried Thurline hoe as she made a sign to her men to let go the line. Bella was thus dropped back into the water. AE Then, to his dismay, Tom was seized and led rapidly away from th spot into the cavern beyond, leaving behind him the gurgling cries of the girl whom he had been forced to desert. The captain of the fire-ship confronted the youth. «You are now in my power,” he said. ‘‘ Hither consent to join ¥ a or die.” ‘‘He will consent to remain with us,” said Thurline softly, as sh Cy smiled upon the youth. No fabled syren of the sea ponld, have given the young sailor a more bewitching glance, but he was not at all Manaenced by it. 5 ‘*T answered you once,” he said to the captain, ‘Cand my answe must still be the same.” _ The captain made a sign to his wild men, at least half a dove “spears were pointed at the breast of the boy. ; But Thurline threw herself in front of these deadly weapons. “Jf you kill him, you kill your daughter, too!” she cried. ‘*Fool! you love this boy!” cried her father. «Thurline does not give her love unsought,” she answered. ‘‘ Bu you know the law of our race.” q Be it so,” answered her father. ‘But if you ai him not in seven days, he must die,” ee Tom felt ill at ease. ; He now knew that Thurline wanted to win him for her husban and the thought was very distasteful to him, although, from what h had heard, he inferred that if he made the girl his wife his life woul be spared. ae Ae He was conducted toa small rocky apartment opening from th main one, and there refreshments were brought to him. But the thought of the Spanish girl, Bella’s fate preyed upon his mind. . He tasted no food, but he drank a little water, which, it seemed to him, had a singular taste, A few minutes later a strange feeling came over him. He dropped. upon a mat and sank into a sort of stupor. : When his senses returned to him he found himself in a larger cave. — He was upon a sort of rude lounge, and several lovely. forms w es, Biting before him. ; ; P «Surely there must 8 some way to get out of this place, since I _ find you here,” said the young officer. «There is a way, but it is so near the cavern rendezvous of those horrible islanders that I fear we will be seen if we try to leave it.” ‘© Why did.you enter this place?” ‘* Because I wanted to get away from Thurline.” ‘‘You run a great risk here, do you not?” ‘¢ Yes, it will not be long before the place will be flooded with the sea-water.” *¢ And you would have drowned yourself?” ‘Sooner than remain with Thurline, who has treated me very harshly, I would risk death. But I meant to try and leave the place unobserved, before the water entered.” ‘* Come, then, if you will show me the way, I will HOSE: to con- duct you safely from here.” , Then, taking the miniature from his pocket, Tom presented it to the girl, telling her how it came to be in his possession. She blushed a little as she received it, and a moment later she mcy- ed on ahead of the youth. Finally the latter noticed the floors of the passage had on upward slope. As the two hurried on the sound of many’voices was heard beyond. Suddenly Bella pointed to an opening high above their leads on the right side of the passage. ‘‘There they are,” she said. Tom looked to see a number of ape-faced men collected in a large, rocky apartment, in which were rude chairs and tables. In front of them, on a bench, stood their chief, addressing them. He was the same piratical-looking person who had appeared before Tom on the beach. “T see him—the captain of the fire-ship,” remarked the youth to his companion, “T have heard Thurline speak of that strange ship,” answered Bella, “Tt is a mystery to me how they can navigate it while it is burning.” ‘ Ay, and as I have told you, I was aboard that vessel while she was under water, but unfortunately, being senseless at the time, I could “make no observations.” Bella hurried on. Suddenly she paused. ‘The entrance to this place is ahead only a few yards ‘further. Generally a couple of the islanders, armed with spears, are posted near it on guard, as the opening leading to their retreat is close by it.” ~ As Bella thus spoke Tom moved quickly forward and soon found himself near the entrance. Just then a large rock was'dropped over this entrance. The youth returned to the girl and told her what had happened. __ * We are aoomed!” she said. - “The natives have problably been in- - formed ere now of your being, here by that traitor, Horlins, and have _ closed the passage to insure your death!” _ Brave as he was Tom’s heart sank. _ “Hark!” said Bella, ‘The water is coming in now.” ~ In fact a gurgling, roaring noise was heard not far off. Soon the white foam of the incoming water could be seen eLhroueny saan ees
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= THE MYSTERY OF THE. FIRESHIP. ri ey were young girl attired in long robes, with WE of leaves | But now only four of the Spaniards rema nd and flowers about their brows. their heels, made for their boat, which lay n¢ far from ‘tl ~ Near him, looking down upon him, stood Thurline, wearing a beau- | of the cave. 8 ae vena suite robe, with a ring of pearls about her throat, and a starry gem Tom, with his face to the foe, backed toward the Hone : “ipon her forehead adding to the almost unearthly beauty of her face. > ‘To Tom’s surprise, he now became aware of a sensation which made no longer averse to this strange island queen. *{ would not doom the Spanish girl, Bella, to death for your sake,” he said, in a sweet voice. ‘Here she is, one of my favored slaves. ad her drawn up from the water after you were led away from the opening.” ‘There, in fact, was Bella, neatly attlred, but looking very sad. line, with a triumphant glance at the fair captive. don’t want to marry you,” cried Tom, rather bluntly. ; an impulse: fe could not rebist: he “arose and tock her na J Am I bewitched?” was the question he asked himself. old man with a long white beard came forward. am a chaplain—was wrecked off this island on a French brig- r, and joined these people, as I hate the Spaniards. In fact there now here to marry you to Thurline, the queen of the islanders. ‘ou willing to make her your wife?”, n would have said ‘‘no,” but some strange feeling seem to de- is will power, and he answered ‘‘ ves!” CHAPTER VI. THE WORK OF THE FIRE-SHIP. igHT smile lighted the visage of the little queen. @ drew closer to Tom, and the chaplain was praceeding to make an and wife, when suddenly a volley of musketry was heard undering close to the cave, was followed by shouts, above which could be heard the deep ‘yoic of the captain of the fire-ship. Give it to them. Kill and sink every Spaniard into the sea!” he tramp of many feet was heard. iaddenly into the cave rushed a dozen Spaniard marines, armed | muskets and headed by an officer holding a drawn sword. urline pulled her pistol from her: girdle and shot the officer i a sehind the marines appeared a large perky of the ape-faced men ny their chief. idently the Spaniards had come ashore from some craft off the and had been attacked unawares, for they were retreating in onfusion from their assailants. Hither it was this spectacle which restored Tom’s mind to its natu- an or else the mysterious influence which had been operating ad ‘at once took sides with the apactaraa: how a bold front, men!” he shouted. ‘‘ Follow me and we will east make it hard for them to vanquish us.” couraged by his voice, the marines close behind him made a dash itd their enemies, who outnumbered them two to one, arp conflict followed. ne ape-faced men uit with great fury, and several of their yonents fell. ordin hand the captain of the fire-shipjmet,the young sailing-mas- and their weapons crossed. «You are not yet Thurline’s husband, and you shall die,” he cried, made a thrust at the boy. : the latter parried the blow,-and he was about putting his sword Iron rh the captain’s body, when Thurline sprang between the two na elung to her father. tis turned from this opponent, Tom attacked one of the islanders was about SULA, AE Speal eee the ES of a wounded = Spear after spear was hurled at him, but the trunks of some cocva- nut trees saved him, the weapons striking them and glancing off. He was now close to the boat, and sprang into it, as the men seized their oars. The mist still lay thick upon the water, and it soon hid the boat . from the gaze of the natives who had continued to hurl after it their spears, which, however, had been dodged by the rowers. “This has been a bad business for you.” Tom remarked, as the boat glided on. “Yes,” answered one of the men. ‘‘ We belong to the Barcelona, ~ : an armed brig, lying about a league from here, and we were sents ‘ ashore, with four sailors to row us, to look for fresh water, of which Fas we are in need. While looking for it we were suddenly attacke@@@phiony sailors who were with us were killed at once. We fired a volley te: ie natives and shot several, then retreated, as you saw, into the ¢ivel “Tam sorry you did not rescue one of your countrywomen tier,” said Tom, and he explained about Bella—the Spanish captive m#@iiem ‘Ob, we will have her safe among us before long,” was the an- swer. ‘‘Our captain, when we tell him, will bring his guns to pear — upon the island, and force the rascals to give her up.” The boat sped onward, and Tom was hoping he would at ‘last find a chance to reach his frigate, when one of those sudden squalls, com- mon to this region, pounced upon the sea, The wind, blowing with terrific fury, sent the spray flying in clouds about the boat. It would have been swamped but for the young Feu neato He seized the tiller, and by great exertion contrived to keep the boat’s head to the peas while te directed one of the marines to bail out the water. The squall was eres by a gale. with a heavy sea, which lasted for hours. When night came, there was the Ne tossing wildly about in the darkness, At dawn the violence of the gale had abated, and the mist and rock had cleared. Tom looked in vain for the frigate. But there was a vessel far ahead which he soon made out to bea brig. ‘“‘That must be your craft,” he said to his companions, ‘Yes, sir, it is—I am sure of it,” was the answer. The brig lay about two leagues from the island, and now evidently her people saw the boat, for a signal was run up and a gun fired. Steered by Tom, with the marines rather awkwardly working the oars, the boat approached the brig. It was within about a mile of it, when, all at once, Tom became aware of a sort of humming noise from the water close to the boat., Then, looking into the depths, he uttered an exclamation, and pointed down beneath the sea. There the amazed Spaniards beheld about four fathoms beneath the — surface a ship’s iron hull, shaped like a huge fish, darting swiftly along, ‘¢ Santa Maria! what is that?” cried one of the marines. ‘Tf I mistake not, it is that strange fire-ship I have been telling you about,” answered Tom, ‘ going to destroy your craft.” The Spaniards sprang up, gesticulating and shouting, in vain ef- forts to apprise the crew of the brig of their danger. At that distance the sailors aboard the brig could not understand the meaning of their maneuyers.. “ Unconscious of danger, they remained with their head yards aback, lying to. About a quarter of a hour had passed, when up from the sea, close alongside the brig, rose the iron hull, and ia a few seconds huge columns of flame were rising from her decks. These flames, blown — toward the craft, set her on fire in a moment. The shouts of the officers and men and the creaking of the xOpes ¢ could be heard by the occupants of the boat. So rapid was the progress of the fire that, in a few minutes, te brig” was completely wrapped in flames.” Hissing, crackling and roaring, they rose high in the air. The vessel was now one great sheet” of fire. ae
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THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRESHIP. _ oo ~, They have ae that boat, besides this,” said one of Tom’s com- __ Panions, ‘as a boat: full of sailors was seen to put off from the brig. Scareely had it done so when, the flames having now reached the magazine, the brig blew!up. As tlie fragments of the wreck, after flying upward, fell back into the water, the boat’s crew were seen pulling with might and main. But not far had they gone when the fire-ship, like some fabled flam- ing monster, bore straight down for them. te They are lost!” simultaneously shouted Tom’s companions. Then the fire-ship, humming and roaring, was seen to strike the boat, shattering it to many fracments. “AS it thus flew to pieces, one > wild cry of agony went up, but when the blazing craft had passed on, no sign of the boat’s crew was to be seen. All had been killed and found a watery grave under the deadly keel of that terrible vessel. ‘‘Sania Maria, help us! she is coming this way!” cried one of the . Spectators. In fact, Tom now perceived that the fire-ship was heading toward the boat he occupied. S2Onshe came, the flames now spreading out on each side of her like reat flashing wings.. Fe will escape her,” said Tom, who with keen gaze had noticed a fog-bank @rifting down toward the boat. fog enveloped the light craft while the fire-ship was not yet a The rane of tke vessel’s bows and the lurid gleam of her flames was seen soe minutes later close to the boat. Tom kept the boat away from it, and finally the fire-ship disap- peared. ‘«T hope to sight my frigate before many honrs,” said the youth. All that day the boy remained upon the sea. Toward night it partly cleared. The occupants of the boat were both hungry and thirsty. At dark a lizht was seen in the distance. «irl mistake not that is the frigate’s light,” said Tom. He headed the boat towards it. But at once the light vanished. Half an hour later’ the outline of an approaching canoe was seen through the gloom. Then the flash of a torch in it showed the forms and faces of the ape- faced men who paddled the vessel. This torch was evidently the light which Tom had seen, and which, showing through the ‘slight mist, had resembled one of the frigate’s lanterns. ‘¢ We are lost!” cried one of the Spaniards, as the paddlers set up an exulting yell. ‘Yom sprang forward and looked at a swivel in the bow of the boat. «Tg it loaded?” he inquired. ‘* Yes,” was the reply. ‘But it is damaged, and may burst.” ‘We will risk that,” said Tom. He aimed the little gun carefully at the canoe and fired. There was a crash as the bow of the canoe was shattered, and as there was ammunition in the boat, Tom quickly reloaded the piece. Tbe islanders were seen in the water clinging to the broken craft,=" ‘Now, then, we will pay them for killiag so many of our comrades,’ said one of the marines. “Yes, yes,” eagerly cried his shipmates, Wy Better not meddle with them,” advised Tom, of them, and they might get aboard of us.” But the Spaniards, disregarding his advice, suddenly worked the boat close alongside of the. straggling natives, and struck at them with their muskets. Three of them thus killed sank beneath the surface. Many of the others contrived to get aboard tue boat. ‘“« Now give it to them!” cried Horlins, who was with the natives. The latter had lost their spears, but they still had their long knives. They rushed upon the tive occupants of the boat, and a desperate combat ensued.’ The marines fought bravely, but the four were soon stabbed to death by their adversaries. Tom alone remained uninjured. He had used his sword with such effect that he had slain three of his assailants. These had fallen over each other on a thwart of the boat in front of him, their bodies forming a sort of barricade, behind which he still stood, wielding his deadly. weapon. * “Yield!” cried Horlins, ‘‘ and we will spare your life!” 4 “Not while I can handle ae good sword will I yield!” answered om. oe CHAPTER. VIL. ~ CORNERED. Wiru his sword the young sailing-master still kept. his opponents at bay. But his exertions were beginning to tell upon him. He knew that he must eventually be slain or captured unless he could think of some way to rid himself of the numbers opposed to him. All at once he thought of the swivel. This he had been unable to make use of while the Spaniards were . fighting with the natives, lest the shot should strike one of his own party. — its. eee ‘ « There are many Now, however, he resolved to fire the gun and again run the risk of (ea he ee ek at a nh a a Se at a al ay a a Suddenly pushing aside the bodies of the islanders in front of iim, i he ‘‘slewed”’ the little gun around so that it pointed at his foes and discharged it. The shot plowed its way through the closely packed forms of the eight natives in the boat, killing four of them. ‘Tre the others could recover from their dismay, the youth attacked’ them with his sword, ana two more tumbled heaclong into the sea. ~ The two others sprung into the water, and the youth now had only Horlins to contend with. eu The desperado, dodgicg a sweep of the sword, sprung forward to bury his knife in the young oOfficer’s heart. a But Tom quickly drew. back, and was about putting his sword © through the rascal’s body, when Horlins, dropping down Ades a thwart, sullenly cried: «Spare my life, sir. I surrender to you.” “«Throw away that knife!” ordered the boy. Horlins threw the knife into the sea. ‘Now step up to the mast and set the'sail, which are in the boat.” ‘* Ay, ay, sir,”’ answered Horlins, and he promptly obeyed. Tom then seized the tiller and directed the beat on its way. 3 ‘For God’s sake, sir, if we see the frigate, don’t take me aboard of - her!” pleaded the wretched man seated in front of him. ‘1 wi be court-martialed and shot, or hung at the yard-arm.” “Traitor, you deserve ‘death! ‘“*Be merciful, sir! Let me off, if we get near the island, and aS promise to leave those fierce people T have joined on the first opportu nity.” “No, I will not let you ofl.” ae Remember, sir, I will suffer death aboard the Columbia. Yo have always oeen known, sir, to be kind to the hands aboard the fri ate, and they all like and respect you. For Heaven’s sake do nol 1g to lose their regard.” a “‘T must do my duty.” é Again and again did the wretch plead with his young conquel oi =a but all in vain. . fe At last he relapsed into silence, sitting with his head bowed upon his breast. Tom by this time was suffering greatly from hunger and thirst. There was neither water nor food in the boat, and he knew that un- less he should soon see the frigate he would be obliged to head for, some islands where his wants could be supplied. As the long hours of night passed, the youth just before dawn 0m something dark looming up betore him. SES It was an isolated rock which he had more than once noticed while aboard the frigate. Thinking he. might find some kind of shell-fish adhering to the rock, he directed the boat alongside of it. a The dawn was just beginning to steal through the gloom. ey “J will have to tie your hands with ropes,” he said to Horling, *‘ while I get out on that rock.” “No need of it, sir,” the man answered. Tom, however, was about to secure his arms in the way he had spoken, when the fellow suddenly sprung out of the boat and tan along the rock, soon disappearing on the other side of it. Bf Come back here,” called Tom; but there was no response. Securing the boat by its warp to a spur, Tom got upon the rock and advanced toward the other side of it to look for Horlins. i Soon he saw the dim form of the latter swiftly stealing a z ward the boat. Say The youth, comprehending his intention, bounded after him, but ere. he could reach him the man had thrown the loop of the warp off th spur round which it was placed and sprung into the boat. With a defiant shout he now pushed this off from the rock, and To saw the vessel rapidly receding from him as the occupant ‘pulled aft the sheet of the sail. Much provoked at being thus outwitted, and knowing it would be useless to try to reach the receding boat, the youth looked about him. The rock upon which he stood was about two leagues from the island occupied by his enemies. The dim light of dawn also revealed to him a sail, just on the edge. of a long strip of fog, off the southern seaboard. He looked long and earnestly at this sail, but he could not fate : out the vessel plainly enough to décide what kind of a craft she was. — At any rate, he resolved to try and signal her by waving his kerchief. ea For some time it was evidently not seen from the distant craft. » Suddenly he saw a Sey put of smoke issuing from her, and heard” the dull booming of a ie ‘Tt is the frigate!” te “erled out joyfully. He continued to signal her, and presently became aware that shh was heading towards him. Mean while there was Horlins making all possible speed toward the islan He would, it was plain, reach the shore before Tom could be es up by the approaching vessel, for the breeze now was very light, scarcely ruffling the surface of the ocean. Pere Soon the fog-bank in the offing began to spread, and. Tom could no longer see either the island or the distant craft. An hour had pai when he was certain he heard the strokes of paddles. “The natives are coming to make me a prisoner again. That cally Horlins has beer ashore and told where I am,’’ thought th Pee youth. eae He carefully examined the rock for some place of concealment af discovered. a hole on one side of it EAE roe to eet througit
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Pee ORAL! THE Near this opening he discovered a few shell-fish adhering to the rock, and with these he partly appeased his hunger. Then he crept into the hole to perceive that it extended in aslanting, downward direction. Soon he came to water, which hindered his going further. He turned, grasped his sword firmly, and here resolved to await the coming of his foes, 1n case they ventured into this retreat. Owing to its narrow dimensions, but one at a time could attack him here. Not half an hour passed when thesound of many footsteps indicated that the islanders had arrived. ‘Perhaps he is hidden in that hole,” came the voice of Horlins. A moment later the youth beheld dimly the hideous visage of one of the ape-faced men, as he crept towards him with his spear held in his left hand. The native did not at first see the young officer. He crept on toward him. Suddenly his loud cry indicated that he detected the youth. _ Up went his spear, but as he hauled ‘t his arm struck the rocky side of the narrow passage, and the weapon passed over Tom’s head. -Jn a moment he was upon the islander with his sword, which he thrust through his body. The latter now blocked the passage so that those who entered behind him could not pass him. He sat upon his haunches, stone dead, with his knees drawn up to his chin. He was finally pulled out of the passage, and soon aiter another islander with a spear made his appearance before Tom, The weapon whistled on its way, and had not the youth drawn him- self closely against the rugged wall the deadly missile would have passed through him. As it was it grazed his ribs, but then darting quickly forward he drove his sword 1o the hilt through the breast of his opponent. The islanders now seemed to be holding a consultation outside of the retreat. Then their voices ceased. A moment later Tom saw them piling some pieces of canvas near the entranze. This canvas they probably had obtained from the brig’s boat which, with Horlins and others in it, had evidently accompanied the island- ers’ canoe. The canvas had been pattly wetted, ard now, as it was ignited, a dense smoke from it was blown into the passage. Tom was nearly suffocated. He crawled nearer to the entrance, but derived little benefit from this. < é : 2 His brain seemed to spin round and round; he gasped for breath. tie hau resolved to make a spring from the place and attack his foes, preferring to perish, if he must, while fighting with them, when he heard a sort of roar and a loud, deep voice. Then came the thunder of a gun; followed by the whizzing of a. shot, and groans and shrieks from the natives. Snot after shot followed, and he heard the yells of the natives dy- ing away in the distance as they receded from the rock. “There could be no mistake. : They had been fired upon by some armed vessel, and were beating a retreat. Tom hastily crept forward along the passage, and with his sword 4 ‘pushed the still smoking pile of canvas to one side. ~ Then he sprang through the opening, and as his vision, which had ~ peen half blinded by the smoke, was restored to him, he beheld, looming ~ up through the mist, not five ships’ lengths off, his own frigate, the Columbia. CHAPTER VILL THURLINE'S PROMISE, A WELCOME sight to the youth, after the perilous adventures he had “undergone, was this huge ship, lying with her main-yard aback so near him. : ~ He could see the sailors forward on the forecastle deck, with the grim old sheet-anchor man among them, while the bodms and lower rigging were filled with nimble tars, all peering through the mist and gazing toward the rock. Aft, on the quarter-deck, stood a group of officers, and near them, hanging to the mizzen-shrouds, were several little midshipmen. Even the marines who had been loitering on the spar-deck, bur- nishing their muskets with pipe-clay, stood upon cannonade slides, craning their necks above the high bulwarks, Then a ringing cheer was given, and while the tars were yet wav- ing their hats about their heads, the boatswain’s pipe was heard, and the order, ‘Third cutter away!” rung hoarsely through the ship. A few seconds later a cutter, with the first lieutenant in the stern- _ sheets, was headed for the rock, ‘‘ Ay, ay, Mr. Trueman, glad enough I am to see you again!” cried the lieutenant, as the two saluted each other. ‘‘ We had all given you up for lost.” ; Tom wag soon in the cutter and hack aboard the frigate. _ So great a favorite was he with the sailors that it was with difficulty, as they joyfully gazed upon him, that they could restrain themselves from disrevarding all rules of discipline by rushing’ up to him for a grasp of hishand. ~ aise ; 6 Here he was, alive and well, their brave young sailing-master, whom iey had for several days mourned as dead. : - vay MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP. Tom waved his arms, shouted and was seen by his many ship- mates. I ‘in an underground cavern. “into the retreat, showed him that Thurline—the girl queen. He walked aft, touched his hat to the ¢a bey and prompily : a report of his adventures since leaving the frigate. 3 ies ‘You have done well, Mr. Trueman,” said the Captain. ‘Consider yourself exempt froin duty for forty-eight hours, which will give you time to rest and refresh yourself,” Tom’s brother officers had much to say to him ere he could go down into the ward-room, but at last he found himself in his little apart- ment, partaking of the biscuits and hot coffee which the steward had been ordered to send him. . Soon after he was in his hammock, swaying with the rolling of th ship, fast asleep. When he awoke he changec his soiled uniform for one in good con- | dition, and mounted to the spar deck. The sun now was setting, and as the mist had cleared Tom could sée the island from which he had escaped lying broad off the starboard bow. : : He went up to the captain, and touching his cap, requested to be permitted to resume duty at once. - “ Upon my word, sir,” said Captain Marlow, smiling, ‘% more regard for duty than any officer I ever met with. there among them that would not jump at the chance of mitted to be exempt for so many hours?” ‘ Believe me, sir,” answered Yom, gravely, ‘* when I sa} opinion you need the services of all your Officers on 80 tryige casion.” Ly. “ Trying? over the sea. present.” : ‘*T allude to the fire-ship, sir. In my opinion that myste will soon again be sent to destroy the frigate.” The captain pointed to a reef between him and the island. ‘¢ She cannot come out to us from that direction, at all events,” he said. ‘* Besides, I think by pouring a few brvadsides into the vessel I could destroy her, or at any rate damage her, so that she could do no mischief.” 3 ‘« Excuse me, sir, but I doubt it. Ihave heard that she is armored so as LO be shot-proof.” 7 ‘¢ That vessel cannot be so armored that incessant hammering will not damage her.” ; «rue, sir, if you have a chance of so hammering her ere she set fire to you.” ; “We must trust to rapid maneuvering to avoid her. can do, sir.” In the morning I will send a force of sailors and marines to attack those strange ape-faced people, and break up their rendezvous, cap- - ture the leader, and thus stop their depredations on passing: vessels. Then the fire-ship, which is evidently hidden in some concealed bay, shall be destroyed, and there'll be an end of it.” “T hope, sir, I will have a command in the expedition.” ‘Certainly. The launch, full of sailors and marines, shall be put under your orders.” ; AJl through that night a good watch was kept, lest the flre-ship should pounce upon the frigate unawares. Several false alarms were given by tke lookouts, who, in common with all the rest of the sailors, dreaded the mysterious, invulnerable craft. : At dawn, immediately after breakfast, the lieutenant of marines mustered his men. As the drum was beat, and they paraded, the captain of the party, with keen satisfaction, surveyed the neat uni- forms and glittering muskets of his soldiers, The first and second cutters, together with the launch, were piped down, as the frigate’s main yard was hauled aback, and soon they were on their way to the island, which was now about half a league distant. Tom, when the launch which he commanded reached the shore, sprang out, and before long, with the first lieutenant, after tne first and second cutters also had come up, he was moving along the beach ~ at the head of sixty stout, resolute men, with thirty marines, under the command of their captain, marching on their left. Carefully did Tom search for the rendezvous of the islanders, but he could now discover no signs of it. For hours the rocks and caves along the shore were closely scrutin- ized, but all in vain. 3 As the youth, while in the outlaws’ cavern, had been unable to take bearings of it, he was at a loss to determine where it was, . Meanwhile not one natiye—male or female—was in sight, All at once Tom, while a little apart from his companions, fancied he sawa human head suddenly projected above a rock near the beach, some yards off, and a3 suddenly withdrawn. . He rushed toward the rock, but when he reached it there was no person to be seen behind it. : The youth, much surprised, looked about him. Soon, as he stepped upon a rocky slab, projecting over the sea, he ~ beheld a human form going down under the surface, : Thinking it was one of the islanders, who might be forced to give him information, the boy resolved to try to capture him. fue Having deposited his coat, hat, shoes and sword, in a hollow among ile rocks near him, he dove and was soon close to the receding — ‘orm, : es Eluding him, however, it presently rose to thessurface of the water, — I don’t understand you, sir,” said the captaiy ‘“‘T am not aware that the occasion is very That is all we As Tom came up to the side of the fugitive, the dim light stealing 2 the person was none other than’
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THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP. : ~ Swimming to a rocky shelf, she drew herself upon it, motioning the - youth there too. “Like-a true naiad of the sea looked this girl, in spite of her rather - masculine attire, which consisted of a light tunic with a sash about the waist and loosely flowing trousers. Her long hair glittered as if sown with sparkling gems, and her eyes shown like stars. The moment Tom was on the rocky shelf by her side she looked at him and said: ’ ‘The crew of your vessel are doomed.” : “No,” responded Tom; ‘‘ were there two hundred of your people— and I judge there are not half so many—my sailors and marines, who are well armed, would soon vanquish them.” “{ do not allude co them, butto those aboard your ship. My father’s band number @ hundred, but they will not meet your skilled party in open fight.” : : ‘* What, then, is their intention?”’ Do. you think I am traitress enough to tell you—you who deserted Mpromising to be mine?” boldness of this declaration would have surprised the the speaker been a white maiden. knew that the ways of the island women were different from 3 own people of the gentler sex. Omise was made under the influence of a drug. The water pe to drink must have been drugged,” he answered. phat then? Do you mean to say you have changed your you a great service.” * And what is that?” inquired Tom. . ‘Twill enable you to save your frigate.” j ** To save the frigate? Is she already in danger?” ‘Yes, from the fire-ship. While your men are here my father in- tends to steal. out in his fire-ship and set flre to the frigate, as he did to the Spanish brig-of-war.” “And how am I to save her? that.” Thurline looked at him with admiring eyes. ‘«Brave boy! Well worthy to be the husband of an island queen!” she cried. , Tom colored. He was firmly resolved that he would never marry this girl, and - under other circumstances he would have suid so; but it now seemed to him that the salvation of hundreds of his brave shipmates justified him in not responding to her last remark. “You will incur great peril in trying to save your ship, but Thurline will be ever on the watch ready to shield you even with her life.” ‘‘T suppose there is no time to lose,” said Tom. “No. My father, even now, is making his preparations to sail.” ‘¢ You will enable me to get aboard that fire-ship?” ‘J will try to. Remember, I may not succeed, but I will do my best to get you there.” ‘‘ Which way are we to go? I am ready.” ‘Wait until your men have left that part of the shore above us. They saw you vanish behind the rock, and they will think you fell off the slab projecting over the water, and which is very slippery.” ‘But they know I am a good swimmer.” sc pends not. They will think you were dragged under by a shark. ; Fully an hour passed ere Thurline ventured vut of the water cavern, She swam along beneath the surface in such a way that she could Obtain a view of the shore. Ag she had expected not a man now was to be seen there. Doubtless all had given Tom up for lost, and left the place. ‘‘Qome, it is time,” said Thurline, after she had returned to the sailing-master. : Both soon rose to the surface of the sea and swam to the shore, Tom looked about him. : ‘He saw his coat, hat, shoes and sword lying in the cleft of the rock where he had thrown them, and where they had escaped the attention of hig men, : ~ He could hear the voices of the latter in the distance coming from the shrubbery of a thicket beyond, but not one of them was In sight. “Come, Follow me,” said Thurline, taking a direction along the beach where it was overhung by a ridge of high rocks, CHAPTER IX. _ ABOARD THE FIRE-SHIP. Tom closely followed his guide, keenly surveying every part of the _ locality he passed in order to keep it in mind. Thurline, with a grace and swiftness he could not help adiniring, kept on for at least half an hour, when she suddenly paused beneath There is no risk I will not run to do ' the base of a cliff which rose high from the shore and seemed to cross the isiand from one side to the other. ‘Who would suspect there was an opening in this rock?” she said. Whe rugged wall rose steeply, presenting an apparently blank sur- face to the sea. : 3 : e* te ¥ Re a a le ee ‘Not I,” answered Tom. ‘‘It is easy to see there is no opening.” But even as he spoke the girl pulled a thick wire, which had been concealed by a projecting cleft, and a small, rocky door, which had been so arranged as to seem to form a part of the rugged’ wall itself, swung Open, showing an aperture large enough to admit a humap being. “«Water,” said Thurline, For only an instant did Tom hesitate. He saw by the reproachful expression of the girl’s face that she had | no thought of treachery. Entering through the opening, he found himself in a dark passage. Then Thurline having closed the rocky door, passed-him and moved on. The passage was of great length, but at last pausing before a rocky wall which seemed to be its termination, the girl opened another door and looked forth. Partly reclosing it, she said: j ‘“We cannot go out now. The people are very busy in the con- cealed bay and would see us if we did. But look through the crevice I Hae left. between the door and the wall and you will be aston- ished. Tom complying with her request gave a cry of surprise. Ahead of him he beheld what resembled a lake, encircled, apparent- ly, by cliffs rising very high and almost perpendicular, except on that side which was probably toward the sea, where this encircling wall of rock was much lower and more broken. In several places fronting the lake Tom saw the openings evidently of deep caverns, while upon the water he was astonished to observe several fine barks and schoon- ers, At a little distance from the latter lay a dark object resembling the body of a large black fish projecting above the surface. One glance at this object was enough to show Tom what it was. It was the iron hull of the fire-ship. “ How could that craft get there?” inquired the youth. ‘‘ How could any of the vessels I see reach that sheet of water, locked in as it is by those cliffs?” “Through an opening facing the sea,” answered Thurline. “‘T can see no opening—nothing but solid rock,” said Tom. ‘True you cunnot see it because it is closed,” answered the girl. ‘A part of the wall of rock facing the sea is but twelve feet high, and has an opening large enough for a ship to pass through, but there 1s a ‘piece of tent canvas extended across it and so painted as to resemble the rest of the rock. This canvas is so arranged that when one of our vessels approaches it can be rolled to one side and thus allow it to pass through into the bay. You can*perceive that every vessel is anchored opposite the loftier parts of the rocky ‘wall, so that its masts could not be seen from the sea. ; Upon my word your father is wonderfully ingenious, Few men would ever have thought of so simple yet skillful a contrivance.” “The fire-ship is his most masterly invention.” “Jt is really a strange, a mysterious affair, and I am impatient to fics get aboard of such a craft.” * You seem to forget the peril. ther discovers you there.” : “Tam, ag I said, willing to run any risk to save my shipmates — and their vessel.” “ Brave and gallant boy!” ‘Bah! you make too much of it. ing to dare the same thing.” % Not with the same indifference.” Certain death awaits you if my fa- — Any of our officers would be will- “ ‘Tell me,” said Tom, quickly changing the subject, ‘‘ what should ~ hinder my men from clinbing to the top of the cliff which surrounds this bay and looking down into it?” “ Because the cliff wallon its other sides is as steep and smoothas the parts you see rising from the water. It 1s inaccessible.” -«¢Truly your bay is well concealed,” said Tom, with a seaman’s ad- miration. He kept his gaze upon the irou hull of the fire-ship, on the deck of which he could see a number of forms moving hurriedly about, ~ “How are you to get me aboard of her unseen?” he inquired of his companion. : ‘¢ Wait, and you shall know.” At last a long boat containing the persons he had observed on the vessel’s deck put off for the shore, and they finally landed, to move along the beach to a part of the cliff where there was an opening, through which they entered. “‘Those are my father and his sailors. They have gone to have see us now. Come.” She led the way to a small canoe which lay by the beach, and Tom was soon paddled to the fire-ship. f The man-ropes over the side enabled him to climb aboard, and, by the same means, Thurline, as active as any young man-o’-warsman, followed him. He now discovered that the deck ot this vessel was made of iron slabs tightly riveted together, while the steel plates forming the armor of the bulwarks and the sides were so thick that it would require many shots to even slightly damage them. zi Excepting the windlass forward, the iron surface of the deck was unbroken by any projection, save in the after-part, where Tom beheld ‘dinner in a large cave in the heart of the cliff. There is no person to — a sort of large iron cap, probably covering the opening or hatchway % leading into the vessel's hold, and also in the center from which pro- jectéd the end of an iron pipe. Aft was the same ring-bolt to which 5
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z z THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP. ae a > “| he had secured his hawser several days before, and thus, by ancior- ing this craft, saved his ship from destruction. Thurline stooping over the iron cap turned it several times from left to right, and thus dislodged it from the circular combings over which it fitted. ‘Though yery light, it was strongly made, and coated with a sort of red paint, which the girl informed her companion wag fire-proof. * Tom now beheld a staircase leading downward, and when he had » descended a few steps, the girl reclosed the cap, which fitted so per- | fectly as scarcely to admit a drop of water into the hold, when it was - ‘shut and the vessel under the sea. 3 _ The first object which here caught the youth’s attention was a curi- - ous engine on his right provided with a row of small pipes, all point- _ ing forward over a second iron deck, extendiug the full length of the yessel and about three feet below it. _ There,” snid Thurline, ‘‘is the secret of our being able to remain in this vessel when she is in a blaze.” “T don’t understand.” ‘Well, then, the engine you notice is su arranged that by turning * the wheel you see attached to it a man can keep aitresh supply of | water, which the pump draws up from the sea, washing along between » the two decks. There is an opening forward, through which the water = runs through a scupper-hole, so that it has not time to get hot. The » constant fresh supply of water keeps the inside of the vessel cool, - while the flames are raging on deck.” ‘But what causes those flames? How do you make the fire?” _ ** You noticed the pipe projecting from the upper deck?” “Yes.” + ‘That pipe is connected with a large tank below, which we en- - deavor to keep full of oil. This oil is pumped up and rushes out in « stream, flooding the decks, A man sets fire to it by darting a torch upward and inward, so that it will fall on the deck. He throws it out of the dead-light under the gangway. This dead-light, when closed, is water-tight.” > ‘Is that the oil-tank there?” inquired Tom, pointing toa huge cask- - shaped vessel in the center of the hold. » ‘Yes; and the pump by means Of | which the oil is sent up through the pipe is on the other side of it.” “T should think your people would find it hard to keep a sufficient supply of oil for their purpose.” ~ «That is their chief difficulty. Often they cannot make use of the fire-ship for that reason. Lately, however, they captured a Spanish bark—the one you have seen in the bay—containing a cargo of petroleum, so that they now have enough burning material to last for some time.” ; ' The two soon were in the vessel’s hold. It was lighted bya couple of swinging lanterns which shed a bright radiance through every part - of it. J Thurline conducted Tom forward, where there was a hand wheel of ' solid brass which shone like gold. “This wheel is connected with the steering gear, sel is both steered and propelled.” ‘‘What?” cried the youth, in astonishment, ‘* You don’t mean that this heavy craft is moved by hand?” “Not entirely; but partly it is so moved. In that little circular jron inclosure there,” she added, pointing toward the center of the hold, ‘‘is a small, nearly noiseless steam engine, which, assistad by the clock-like intricate machinery of this vessel, works by compressed air, and the movement of the brass wheel has power to send this ves- sel through the water at: the rate of twelve knots an hour. The ma- -chinery turns a paddle-wheel under the forward part of the ship.” _ “And where does the steam go to?” ‘Through an escape-pipe to the upper hold, where it is soon con- ensed and falls in drops.” H “And how does your father contrive to get the craft down under ater! ‘Simply by opening a valve at the battom of another compartment under this hold, and thus filling it with water.” *« How does he open this valve?” ; ‘‘ By means of a wire connected with a spring reaching up into the hold where we are.” * And she directed Tom’s attention to a knob not far off, which she ~ stated was attached to the wire. ‘* But what prevents the water from entering here?” ' The compartment [speak of is shaped like that of a diving-hell. he resistance of the air keeps the water from rising as hizh as this, Vhen he wants to come up tothe surface again, my father has the water umped out between decks by means of the same pump which lets in he supply that keeps the hold cool, and by pressing down’ the knob ‘the valve below is closed.” ____**Now tell me how I am to save the frigate.” -} You will have to get at the machinery connected with the paddle- heel, and with a file sever a steel rod which you will see. This rod, heing cut, the vessel cannot be properly steered until the damage ‘shall have been repaired, which it will take several days to do.” | “If you will give me afile, and show me how I am to get at the rod, # will commence at once.” By this the ves- square box near them, shaped like a chest, a ~The sharp point of the wheel would in another instant pen strate ng down at the machinery which was faintly body. = ies Popul ores egret tery a = ees ws ae, ae revealed through an opening thus disclosed below, and hanging near — which wasa sort of rope-ladder, The light from the hold but dimly showed the machinery. **You say I would probably drown if here when the vessel is under water,” remarked Tom, ‘ but it seems to me I could then climb into the box.” ** No, for there is a revolving wheel with sharp spikes, which might ~ catch on your garments and hold you, unless the rod was severed,” “¢ Give*me a file, then, and I will at once commence work.” From a shelf, on one side of the hold, Thurline obtamed a file and a lantern, the latter of which she lighted. ; Tom got upon the ladder and took both the lantern and the file. ‘‘T believe you are safe enough at present, for I do not think the vessel] will be ready to sail for several hours,” said the girl, She stood looking down at Tom, while with the lantern slung to his arm he commenced to file the rod he saw near him. ze He was still at work when voices and footsteps were heard ab followed by the noise of the boat being hoisted to the davits. ~ ‘My father and his people have come,” said the girl, shutti the lid of the box and carelessly leaning over it. ; oye; CHAPTER X. TOM'S PERIL. Tur captain of the fire-ship soon entered the hold. “‘You here?” he said, on seeing his daughter. ‘‘ When did aboari?” ' ‘tA few minutes ago,” she answered. aS ; “ Well, unless you want to go out with me, you had better return ashore.” fe mean to go with you, but I suppose it will be hours before you sail.” : ‘*No, we are ready to sail now, as soon as our anchor can be lifted.” _ As he spoke the noise made by his men as they worked the wind- lass was heard. : Half an hour later the anchor was a-trip, and seizing the brass wheel, as his engineer entered the steam compartment, the capatin commenced to turn it. In an instant the sharp click-click of the machinery was heard, and gradually gathering way the craft moved towara the canvas-covered opening between the clifis. ‘ As she approached the canvas, it was rolled aside far enough to al- low her to pass, by men stationed for that purpose on a projecting shelf of the wall of rock. On she went, and was soon out to sea, her captain. as he steered, keeping a sharp lookout for the frigate through the clear glass of the head-ligzht—window—in the vessel’s bow. There was now a slight mist upon the water, and the ship could - not be seen until the captain had rounded a projecting headland. Then he caught sight of the huge warcraft directly ahead and not a mile off, 4 Sr seks Not far from him stood his crew. j These were not the ape-faced men, but were adventurers who, like Horlins, had joined the party for the sake of the profits of plunder. They consisted of Manilla men and other islanders, with several whites, among whom was Horlins. Numbering eighteen men in all, they stood clad in their loose-flow- ing trousers and low caps, as motionless and silent as so many statues, awaiting their captain's orders. : Fierce looking fellows they were apparently—as strong and active as tigers, with cutlasses and pistols in the velts about their waists. Meanwhile Tom was busily at work with his file. : The noise made by the raising of the anchor had previously not been sutlicient to drown the scraping sound of the instrument, but now the grinding and clicking of the machinery enabled him to use the file without danger of detection. ; The swaying motion of the rod greatly interfered with his moye- ments, as also did the spiked wheel. This wheel, whica reyolved rapidly, was within a few inches of his — body all the time. : The spikes upon it were as sharply pointed as needles, and he was obliged to use the greatest care to prevent their catching in his garments. ey Should they do so they would hold him, and penetrating his flesh, jam him up against the rod until he should perish. — ; Several times the swaying of the rope-ladder on which he stood al- most brought him in contact with the perilous wheel. Braye as he was he could not help shuddering at his danger. Nevertheless he plied the file with a steady hand. The rod was a tough one, and he feared he would not succeed in his task in time. \ : Tn fact, but two-thirds of the rod were severed when he heard the captain of the craft shout the order for the opening of the valve which would let in the sea water and sink the vessel a few feet beneath the surface, : xy So quickly was the command obeyed that, before Tom could ascend to the top of the rope-ladder, down went the iron hull. The water roaring and foaming about the youth almost swept him from his position. : ied Then one of tho spikes of the revolving wheel caught in his coat, — and he felt himself about to be jerked by it from the ladder. — Se He gavé himself up for lost. Gees ’
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THE MYSTERY OF ‘THE ~FIRE-SHIP. -<*Tt is all over! Iam gone!” was the thought that passed through his mind. Just then there was a snapping sound as the partly severed rod gave - way, and the wheel swung away from him. It took withit a fragmeut of his coat, and thus released he was able to draw himself up to the top of the box, out of the foaming vortex of waters, which, in avother secend, would have risen over his head and drowied him. : Unaware at present that there was anything wrong with the ma- chinery, the captain continued to work the wheel he grasped. ; He soon perceived that his craft was yawing strangely from side to side. «Something is wrong!” he said to Thurline, who was still leaning over the box. ; ‘“@No, father, it is only the action of the tide, I think,” answered tae \ POD girl. ; “Up again with the hull! We shall soon see!” cried the captain. The man ordered to do so closed the valve, and the clang of the Mpwas heard as the sea-water was pumped out. e vessel rose to the surface. ook sud see what is the matter,” said the captain to his “The machinery must be out of order.” 8 raised the lid of the box, and looking significantly down at } was crouching on the ladder, she answered: rything seems to be right.” : fain, gazing through the deadlight, perceived, however, that s heading at right angles with the frigate, instead of to- “‘ Here, take the wheel!” he called to Horlins, ‘‘ while I have a look at the steering-gear.” ‘Ay, ay, sir!” promptly answered Horlins. He sprang to the wheel, and the captain advanced to the box. ‘*Stand aside!” he said to Thurline. : But the latter, knowing that if he looked down through the box he would see Tom, said quickly; ‘‘What need of your looking? There is nothing the matter.” Her father impatiently pushed her aside, and raising the lid, saw at once that the machinery was out of order. ~ Of course he also saw Tom crouching on the ladder. “Treachery!” he cried, fiercely. ‘It is your doing!” he added, turning to his daughter. The latter caught his arm. “Do not harm that boy!” she said. led him here.” “You shall soon see what I will do with him!’ answered the in- furiated captain. ‘‘ This way, men!” The men came thronging to the spot. ‘‘ Haul him up!” ordered their commander, ‘Tom drew his sword, “The first who lays a hand on me dies!” he said in a determined voice. ; The captain laughed hoarsely, as he pulled a pistol from his belt and aimed it at the young officer. ; All at once, however, h9 replaced it in his belt. He knew that if he shot Tom where he now was, his body would fall down into the complicated machinery, and becoming fastened in it, - derange the works still more ere it could be extricated. ‘ It was therefore necessary that the youth should be hauled up into the hold before he was killed. “T tell you to seize him and draw him up!” he shouted fiercely to the men. : One of them leaned down and caught Tom by the collar, Sut the next moment he drew back with a hoarse ery and fell dead on the floor of the hold. : Tom’s sword had pierced him to the heart. ‘He has the advantage of us, sir, as you will not have him slain where he is,” cried one of the sailors. ‘‘He can stab us all, one after the other, if.we try to pull him up.” ; ‘ This was true, and the captain and his men now held a consulta- tion as to what was best to be done. ? Meanwhile Tisurline, who was willing to sacrifice the craft and the lives of all ber crew for the sake of the youth she loved, quickly made her way to the deck and waved her kerchief to the frigate’s people, who, as the Columbia was now but about thirty fathoms distant, saw her plainly. ‘ As she was within speaking distance she shouted: ‘¢Mr, Trueman, your sailing-master is in danger a¥oard this vessel. Send men to his rescue if you would save his lifel”’ The next moment she was seized by her father, who had observed her just as she was passing through the circular hatchway. ‘‘Traitress, you deserve death for. this!” he cried, ‘‘and though"you are my adopted daughter, you will have to die when we return ashore! ' Our people will have it so, even though I should try to oppose them.” “Ay, ay, she must die!” shouted some of the sailors who had fol- lowed their captain to the deck. _ The girl was seized by her father and forced back into the hold. At the same moment the piping of a boatswain’s whistle was heard *¢ You are right; it was | who “The captain smiled grimly. _ ft aboard the frigate, followed by the command to lower one of the cutters. A look of despair came over Thurline’s face. , pene w that the speaker meant to fire his craft. The cé aptair now ordered two of his men to keep guard 0 Yn ad oer be bes ves _ “Twill make it hot for them,” he said. ‘‘if they try to bgard us,” | over the girl, while he returned to the box, followed by those who had accom- panied him to the deck, pete The sailors were still consulting as to iow they were to get Tom up into the hold. f 2 : “Jfone of the men will take this wheel, Captain Rulok,”isaid — Horlins, +‘ I think I can find a way to draw that rascal up.” $ “Take the wheel, one of you,” ordered the captain. A man took the wheel and Horlius then seized the end of one of severai Coils of rope to leeward, : He made a slip noose on the end of this rope. ; “He will cut that with his sword before yot can get it around him,” ~ said the captain. : ; «No, sir, not if we are quick enough,” was the reply. ; The rope was a tough one, and Horlins threw it with a swiftness and dexterity which speedily brought it round Tom’s neck. Se The youth slashed at the rope with his sword, but its perpendicular ~~ position as it was being hauled hindered the effects of his blows. In a few seconds a powerful, violent jerk of the rope brought him up = on the deck of the hold. : : Before he was in condition to offer resistance he was disarmed and ~ ‘his wrists bound with cords. CHAPTER XI. CONCLUSION. i “Now you are in my power,” said the captain to the prostrate youth, ‘‘and your fate shall be a terrible one, for not only have you ~ ruined my plan to destroy the frigate, but you are the cause of my | daughter’s treachery.” 3 “‘T am not afraid to die,” Tom calmly answered, plished my purpose, and have saved my ship.” The captain went on deck. The cutter from the frigate was rapidly approaching. cate In her were ten men armed with cutlasses and pistols, with the first ~~ “T have accom- the wheel to stop moving it. : The iron hull soon lay to, swaying up and down with the slight heaving of the sea. The lieutenant surveyed the singular craft with much curiosity. ‘ As the boat glided alongside the captain lowered the man-ropes in the gangway for him to descend to the deck, «Follow me, boys,” cried the officer as he clambered aboard. The captain now had disappeared. The lieutenant and his men looked about them in surprise at the deserted deck. At the same moment a hand thrust through one of the now open water-proof dead-lights severed the cutter’s warp with a knife, and the hoat drifted away from the vessel. d “Boys,” cried the coxswain, “ we are caught in some trap.” ie Ag he spoke torrents of oil poured from the mouth of the projecting ¥ pipe which has been mentioned, rapidly flooding the deck. pes Then from the open dead-light a flaming torch was dexterously ~ darted upward so that it fell inward on the deck. ; In a moment the oil there began to blaze. The men rushed to the side to leap overboard. Pa But a ringing voice now was heard coming from below. ar It was a- voice which all the hearers recognized as that of their be-~ loved sailing-master, Tom Trueman, ; f ‘¢ Lift the 1ron cap and come into the hold. from the fire.” ; ; Bat the captain had fastened down the cap by means of an iron” chain attached to the under part of it. sige Fortunately the two men whe had been guarding Thurline were now looking with the others toward their captain, ss The maiden, seeing her chance, bounded up the staircase and un- hooked the chain. = 4 : The flames had not yet reached the after part of thé deck. eae ‘As the girl unfastened the chain, the lieutenant raised the cap. Pi “This way, boys,” he shouted, as sword in hand he sprang upon the” staircase. : Captain Rnlok placed himself at the head of his men, who, as stated, were well armed and numbered fifteén, beside those who were work- ing the pump to keep a fresh supplyjof water for cooling the hold. mut With the lieutenant and the midshipman there were twelve of the cutter’s crew in all. : ; : ie Headed by their commander, they poured rapidly down the stairway — | as Thurline descended quickly to make way for them. . ine Rulok aimed a pistol at the head of his adopted daughter, =» — “ Your treachery deserves instant death!” he cried. eae Hs The sharp report of the pistol was heard, but the bullet passed over ee. the girls head. Siaahicn een oer Banus fii Tom, who had been left to himself when Rulok’s men gathered ab their captain, had worked so vigorously at the cords about his that he had succeeded in unfastening them. Here you will be safe ane
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Pruited. arding of the vessel by the man-of-war’s men had, as can vented this. Bip oment he found his arms free Tom had sprung up. apiain aimed the pistol at Thurline, he had struck him an blow on the wrist of the hand holding the weapon. mew, let them have it!” rang his voice as ke sprang to the side, waving his drawn sword, which had been left lying en he was bound. ‘an_forever!” shouted Mr. Trumble, the little midshipman, anied the officer of the cutter. ‘aye a rousing cheer. { their beloved sailing-inaster seemed to inspire them © zeal for the combat. . ‘parties met in conflict. island men fought desperately, but the trained man-o’-war’s- wered their blows with a precision and a dexterivy that was thstand. on, my braves, fight on!” shouted the captain of the fire- awit. them! Leave not aman of them alive!” cried the every one of the piratical dogs!” echoed the lieutenant. “ieath—tight to the death! Fight for our beautiful fire- Ared the captain again, as he wielded his sword with such thaé it resembled tie flashiug of lightning. tler’s coxswain found himself face to face with the traitor, rpris2 at beholding this person for a moment unnerved his Jitlic midshipman, who sprang upon him, driving | ae cea bee bis shoalders. fell like a log to tke floor. ly done, Mr. Trumble!” cried Tom, as he dashed aside a cut- jy Obuerwise would have swept the youngster’s head from his Mecame still more ¢lose and deadly. » of the fire-ship fouzhtlike a demon, and his trumpet- 4 seemed to inspire his followers with superhuman strength. id, steady blows of. thes ‘frigate’s men finally began. to” adversaries hs ¥ steel, ming of feet, and the yells and execra- Ethe comatants were ounds now heard. pistor chad been disch narged, and at such close quarters, with e es constantly i in use, there was no chance to reload. ‘5! the fire-ship’s people lay dead on the floor of the hold, and of the cutter’s crew had fallen. ill of the man-of-war’s-men in parrying the furious strokes of yponents, and the eflective blows they § gave in return, finally hieit snomies alt. they nade a last desperate stand, but in vain. an after man of their namber was cut down. sid! Surrender!” shouted Tom, as with a tremendous sweep of pon he shivered the captain’s sword to the hilt. _ it is me you did,” came the piping voice of little Midship- unble, ; captain threw the fragment of his sword into the Jad’s face. uy. a8 the four men—all that were left of his fighting party— own their swords, he seemed possessed of the rage of a demon. one of “you shail live to boast of his victory,” he roared, in 2 unc er. ‘‘ Tle fire-ship shall be your coffin as well as mine.” ouickly, he pressed the knob connecting with the wire ai the valve in the compartment below. zisg aringbolt near it, he pulled up a round, closely-fitting rot thus disclosing a circular hole. I chose that opening, or we are lost!” shrieked Thurline to ‘ar’s men. aplaia Rulok threw himself upon the iron plate, and ere he ived aside, the fire-ship sank rapidly beneath the surface. orivave apparatus, like a diving-bell, under the hold, now { the top, owing to the removal of the iron plate, no longer re- he upward pressure of the water, this poured into the hollow i, with a surging noise like thunder. was replaced too late, It flew up like a shot before the coming torrent. pwn, lower and lower sank the fatal craft. of water poured into the hold, while the loud hissing ames sounded above as if thousands of writhing conflict. sh eks broke from Thurline, and from such of the men as it ont heir feet by the dashing, foaming torrents of water. ; re on the staircase we. May have a chance for life!” e seized the boy Trumble, who was about to ve swept Bide and eas him up the stair-way toward the _ THE MYSTERY OF THE FIRE-SHIP. : EN even now at the bottom of the sea. EEO ee The rapidity, with which the heavy i iron hull went down soon caused the water to rush up with irresistible force about the imperilled party. Filling the hold, it sent the cap bursting from the combings about which Thurline had replaced it after the boarders. descended tle stair- case. ‘The young sailing-master, with Trumble, the lieutenant and fou ur of ie men, were shot upward through the opening with Lemeneots ocity. Round and round in the whirlpool cftused by the sinking craft did they spin for a few seconds; then, as the vortex < subsided, tney pore gaspiug to the surface. ee : All except the lieutenant could swim. Wiss : Tom, a3 soon as he could recover from the contusent of sense caused by his submersion, struck out for the struggling, sinking officer, and . kept his head above water until a boat, which ere now had been sent ‘from the frigate, arrived and picked him up with his shipmates. To Captain Marlow, who commanded this boat in person, the sailing- master made a report of the events which have been described. The boat was long kept near the place where thasgne but, although. many Particles that had been in the hi the bodies of those who had perished were never § Far down beneath the surface were they destined & doomed fire-ship, which had proved to be their coffig Before night, after Tom had refreshed himself ‘anti rest, he went ashore with a crew, in a cutter which ‘wa ACER his command. A brief search soon brought him in sight of tho sailors and marines there, who were still vainly searching for the islanders’ rendezvous. On seeing the sailing-master whom they had thought was lost, they. gave a simultaneous shout of joyful surprise. Tom explained matters to them, and then, not doubting that he” could now find the concealed bay, he put himself at théir head, and reaching the beach, followed the tracks which Thurline and he had previously left in the sand when she guided him to the seer t retreat. By the same way he had-been conducted to the shore of the con- cealed bay, he finally arriyed there again, this time with his armed followers. Remembering the cave he had seen Rulok and his men enter, after leaving the fire-ship while at anchor in the bay, he led his party to the — opening. Moving swiftly along they soon came to a large rocky apartment, in which they found the ape-faced men collected. Their appearance was a complete surprise to their foes, and after a brief combat the whole number were made prisoners. There were among them several handsome females, whose husbands belonged to the captured party, and the old French chaplam whom Tom had previously seen was also there. But the youth looked around him in vain for Bella, the beautiful Spanish girl. He asked the prisoners where she was, but they refused to tell him. The chaplain, however, said to him in alow voice: “Bre she left us. Thurline chained the girl to a rock, in the passage, where you will remember you had so narrow an escape the other day. ” -*Then she has perished by this time!” cried Tom in dismay. ‘No, if you make haste you may save her,” said the chaplain. tide is entering, but I doubt if it has yet drowned her.” : Tom hastened in the direction pointed out by his informant, accom- panied by several of the men, one of whom brought with him a coil of rope and an ax found in the cave. The youth finally reached the aperture overlooking the narrow ~ passaze, Already he could hear the rush of the incoming. tide, and looking down he beheld, by the light of a lantern he carried, the beautiful up- turned face of the poor girl, who chained to the rock was already im- merged in the water to her breast. Tom quickly fastened the rope to a spur; then taking the ax he de- scended, Arrived at the girl’s side he fastened the Tope about his } chest. Then with a few powerful blows of the ax he severed the chain from the rock. “Tam saved!” cried Bella. ‘* You will be in a moment,” answered the youth. hold you while my men pullus up.” He raised her in his arms and the two were soon hauled to the open- — ing: above. Before many hours, Tom an@ his party with the rescued girl and the prisoners were aboard the frigate. ‘Next day the ape-faced men were surrendered to the authorities of another island, and in due time the captured vessels in the concealed bay were restored to their rightful owners. Thus the baneful organization which for some time had existed un- — der the leadership of the vengeful Captain Rulok was forever destroyed. The young sailing-master, Tom Trueman, who had been the means of accomplishing this good work, and who by his daring and presence of mind had succeeded in saving the frigate from the terrible fire-ship, was rewarded with the promotion to a lieuterancy. He had taken a great liking to Bella Carlos, the beautiful Spanish girl whom he had rescued, and finally, a few years mee she ast Wot ; Testored to her srlends, she became his wife. : “The “Permit me to
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Little 908 Sam; or, The Troublesome Foundling—comic. g by Peter Pad 909 Velvet Van; or, Deadly Grip and His Shemon Vand .... calves eseeeseeseeeesDy Paul Braddon 910 A Smart New York Boy; or, From Poverty to Wealth os sssscsvsssircene ssrB John Sherman 911 Foretop Tom; A Yankee Sailor ‘Bey Among the tains Pirates......by J. G. Bradley dale Ship of the Gold Coast.......-. .by J. G. Bradley | 912 Bulger Boom, the Inventor-. cont aie 913 Out in the Streets. A Story ‘of ff han Life in New York.....2.. ++ + : by N.S. Wood (The Young / 914 The Swamp Demon; or, Lost For by ®.= 915 Denver Dan, Jr., the Stage Drivery Ory Ths ‘yea Mystery of Golden Gulch........by * Nonp ne * 2 916 Muldoon’s Brother Daun—comic...by Tom ™e = 917 Buifalo Bill’s Boy Broncho Breaker; or, Youngest Hero on the Plains..by Paul! 918 A Sailor at Fifteen; or, From Oabin Captain........-... veccee ones DYewan 1919 Henpecked—comic.. Sar etarse peter Par 920 Homeless Hal; or, A Poor Boys ‘Tite to Great City: «by Captaie v i pagina seencoseees 922 Mulddon’s Christmas—comic ....by Tom ¥e9} 923 Captain Jack. the Pirate’s Foe; or The DB oye fish of the Indies.......... vsby Roger Sta G 924 A Bad Boy at Schoci—comic..... oo care T Leu ; 925 Mr. asa ate . 2 hee ; 927 Set to China; or, The Life of ‘ RacaW y J. GB 928 Searching foveStaniey; or Tom Steven As. ventures in Africa....:.. sesso DY R 929 Boarding-School; or. Sam Bowser | at W and Play—comic.....3... co oa bledind DURE 930 Young Magic; or, The Boy with & charm DHIC HE pepdborres nckfascyh teh 931 Muldoon Out West—comic - by Tom ‘rea: 932 The Boy Treasure Hunters; or, Searching for Lost Money...........+ +--+. by Jolin Sh 933 Senator Muldoon: -comic..........by To i 934 Sam Johnson, the Negro Detective, by Harry k 935 Frank Reade, Jr., in the Far West; or, The® Search for a Lost Gold Mine.... by fs Noname? 336, The Waif of Mystery Island; or, The Advens ‘si : tures. of a Boy Who Was Kidhappedses. a 937 The Mystery of the est House in New York:........ by R. U.K 938 lslund No. 7; or, The Pirates of Lae Migs nig : 939, OurLandlord; or, Life in French iat 4 940 From.Jockey to Judge; or, The Boy Who, % AlW8YS ANCA. , cic. cee. sv emeeeeee 941 Alone in New York; or, Ragged Rob the Ne boy. by NeS. Wood (The Young American 942 The pe Express Messenger; or, Fightingot ‘Train Robbers...... by John 943 Next Door; or, The Irish Twins—comic. .« by To: BASET 944 The Limbless Hunter; or, S1 SiocumisRey nge y Roger §) 945 The Boy in Red; or, The Ozar'y Masbedt e SOURED sasscvecces sec cose csscqueih ia kie 946 Adriftin the Antarctic; or, Two Years Continent Of 1C@.........ce,eeeseee SDV y Tom 948 Pawnee Bill; or, The White Chief's "hire “War Mails sets tees ees ee ++--by Paul Brad 949 The Boy Showman; or, A Circus’ Manager/atie Sixteen... ; ... by John Sher 50 Tip Top Teddy. the Young biphenyl . Four Yeears Before the Mast....by J. G. B 951 Mrs, Brown’s Bgetdlne Boe ae fee ‘ PsterP 952 The Boy. Sherif, or, The Regulators ye Pecon R. T. Em #53 ae Buried Gold Ship; or, The Sailor Boy's NOS coves clic devas Usinecshvapuesevln et iaam™ 954 Our Future President; or, The Oak That ‘Gr e From the Acorn—comic.... scenes. DY" Pat 955 General Crook’s Boy Gnide; or, The a Indian Fighter’s Black Hills Trailc.s by Pan! Braddoi 956 Three Yankee Boys in Africa; or, The Giants of the Congo......-.. by Perey B. Sted 957 The Boy Surveyor; or, Running Out a # rng road in the Indian Country. ..by Toh ; 958 Rob Rounds, the Young Fireman.....byiGmut 959 Muldoon’s Base Ball Club—comic. be Tom Te 60 Fair-Weather Frank, the Dashing” Sailor Boyes. Je 961 Fagle Dan the Boy Hermit of the Po aiee by raul Bradd : 962 Captain Lewis, the Pirate..... seveeeu ee OMp Onelai EG 963 Muldoon’s Base Ball Club in Boston —t0 mic af by : M 964 Harry Horton; or, From a Wait to a MilOmee 9 Pa aire... eeeverdtert ++s.-.by Captain Wi Darton 965 The Prairie Post Boy; or, The. Soa of Apache Land........ seh 966 Onan, to the Death; or, T inkon ae Boy Marine.........-.--20e0 by Roy 967 Muldoon Abroad—comic....+.9s+ 968 An Engineer at 18; or, The Boy: ae Lightning Express. ....-. seo 969 Hardpan Harry, the Hunted Bo. pee New Yorker Among Western dutta sa 970 The Property Roy: or, Before, the- ¥oo Hight and Behind the Scenes..... by! 971 Muldoon’s Base Ball Club in Pitiadelphiaee : comic. cetbecccurccoecavtage Dy gory 34 and 36 NORTH MOORE 87, Ny, ¥,