New York Detective Library (v. 1) (1891 05 09)
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THE NEW YORK give PRICK TEN CENTS. flere’ MUEEGR, Entered according to Act of Congress, in the Fear 1891, by FRANK TOUSEY, in the Ofice of the Librurtan of Congress Washington D. C, Entered at the Post Office, at New York, N. Y., as Second Class Mutter Sa opie. | FRANK TOUSEY. PuBLisuER, 34 & 36 NoRTH MOORE SrreEer. N. Y. f PRICE } No. 441. pCOMPLETE, | New YORK, May 9, 1891. IssugpD EVERY SATURDAY. 110 CENTS. Vol, 1 The Subseription Price of Tae New York Derecrive Lrprany by the year is $5.00; $2.50 per six months, post-paid. Address FRANK ‘TOUSEY, Posiisuer, 34 and 36 North Moore Street, New York. Box 2730, THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE: FROM BANDITS TO DETECTIVES. By D. W. STEVENS. WI I} i HN NAA Hii SAAT |, ty A ws i Mi ki y / i , ni / i we >». oe a Mihm. a a 2 A i ‘il <li 5 Sim :
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THE NEW YORK ye PRICK TEN CENTS. OU LUGRARY Butered according to Act of Congress, in the Year 91, by RANK TOSSEY, in the office of the Librarian or Congress, at Washington, D. C. ————— No. 441. foom PLETE, } New YorK, May 9, 1891. Entered at the Post Ofice, at New York, N. ¥., as Second Class Mutter. FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 34 & 36 Norra Moore Srresr, N. Y. ISSUED EVERY SATURDAY. ' PRICK Vol I 0 CENTS. ——_—_ The subscription price of Taz New York DergotivE Lisrary by the year is $5.00; $2-50 per six months, post paid. Address FRANK TOUSEY, PuBuisHEr, 34 and 36 North Moore Street, New Y Box 2730. - THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE, OR, ork. From Bandits to Detectives. By D. W. STEVENS, Author of **The Younger Boys’ Flight; or, Chused From the Lakes to the Gulf,” etc., ote. CHAPTER I. ENTICED FROM HOME. ¥s om you wounded, Jesse?” as 0.” “ we the bullet strike you?” “ 0.” “Why do you lag behind?” ’ * Siroc’s lame.” * What, Siroc lame?” * Yes.” « Perhaps he was hit.” «JT am afraid so.” “T see ebay tl ie *“« Very badly, Frank. At this moment wild yells arose on the air be- hind the two’horsemen, who, dust-covered and haggard from their long flight, were galloping up a dusty road. ; “ Do you hear that, Jesse?” Yes.” “What does it mean?” The fngitive cast a despairing glance about over the landscape. The sun beamed down its quivering heat upon the scene, “You know what it means, Frank?” said | Jesse. Yes.” «Unless Siroc can overcome that lameness, I am doomed.” ee -a howl of rage the flends set up! Frank glanced at the sun. «J's several hours until dark,” he said. +** Yes.” “* The day is very hot.” _-**T never saw a warmer.” -*¢ Nor I.” } te They are not much over a: mile in our “« Go on, Frank.” « What are you going to do?” « See what ails Siroc.” * 4 Are you going to dismount?” -“ Yes.” | «There, they see yon dismounting, and what «Poor Siroc! Noble fellow, where are you ws Yay you see where lie is hit, Jesse?” «“ No.” *Tt’'s his right fore foot that is lame.” “T Know it.” *“ A stone.” , ** Can't you get it/out?” “lam going to make a tremendous trial.” Jesse then coolly dug the stone out from the Jesse James then passed his hand gently down | horse’s foot. his right fore leg. “Tecan find no woand,” “ Perhaps it’s in his shoulder.” ** T will look.” **Do you see it?” “oe No.” ** Then hia foot?” Again yells from their pursuers were heard. “We've got ’em! We've got em!” roared a Wild yells came on the air. ** Are they getting close, Frank?” “ea,” 3 : Rte don’t come up in a hurry?” ‘*Bang!” came a distant shot. The report was sharp and heavy indicating Uthat it was a large gun which bad been fired. The ball plunged through the broad brim of score of armed horsemen who were crowding in | Frank’s hat, slitting a bit out and whipping him their rear. ‘* How far are they away, Frank?” “ Three-fourths of a mile.” ‘* How do they approach?” ‘ They are wary.” ‘<I would suppose so after the lesson we gave them this morning.” “ Yes.” ‘¢ We left a few?” “ Half a dozen, I wou'd say, at least.” ‘* Lee’s Ford will long be remembered.” “* And me too.” Jesse now lifted the right fore foot of Siroc as coolly and carefully as if there was not a foe within a thousand miles, and he bad all the day to do the work in, “‘T see nothing wrong with his foot,” said Jesse. «There is,” Frank re . “Siroc is a thoroughbred horse and he does not timp from a strain.” “He has had a long run.” “Yes, dig the dirt out of his hoof,” Jesse James coolly took a. knife from his pocket and proceeded to dig the dirt from his hoof. In a few moments he had taken it all out and revealed a small sharp-cornered stone stick- ing in the frog of the foot, *“T have found it.” “The wound?” “Yes.” “* Was it 9 bullet?” “ No.” “ Whav?” on the cheek. Frank drew his hand up to his face. a — hit, Frank?” asked Jesse. id oO. ** Bat they are getting close.” ‘Yes, and got long range guns.” Bang! Another heavy report shook the air. and the bullet came hurling toward Jesse striking up the earth almost at his feet. - “There, Siroc, old boy, you are all mght now.” Jesse put his boot in the stirrup and vaulted in the saddle. ** Away we go, Frank.” “Ts he lame, asked Frank.” “ No.” Crack! Crack! : “They are shooting to kill, Jesse.” ** Yes, and woe to them if they come within nm. of our revolvers. Blue Cut and Lee's Ford are nothing compared to what the result will be if they do come in range of our pistols.” The James Boys were now galloping like the wind over the bill. * Ts Siroc lame now?” “oe No.” “ Then we can distance them.” “Yes—although our horses have been going under whip and spur almost since dawn of day our pursuers have not a horse among them who can overtake us.” No.” ** See, they fall behind.”
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- THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. Far in their rear could be seen a dozen horse- men who were whipping their horses to their ut- most to overtake them. Suddenly half ascore of small puffs of white smoke arose from the advancing pursuers, and a second later the balls knocking up the dust in little spurts but a short distance to the rear of our fugitives. Jesse James turned in his saddle and laughing said: ‘‘Poor marksmen—poor guns.” “* And poor horses.” “Yes, though they have changed a dozen times in this chase, and we rode the same horses we started in with we are still in advance.” ‘‘ Where ure you going, Jess?” **To Clay County.” ‘““Why not to Kearney?” ‘‘Idiot! There is a telegraph station there,” growled Jesse. ‘*We don’t want to go near Kearney.” ‘Right you are we don't.” They then pressed on, and were soon lost to the sight of their pursuers. Shortly after dark two horsemen drew rein at the home of Mr. Snapper. ** Hello, Roderick!” cried one to the farmer, who in his shirt sleeves was walking in the yard. The day had been an exceedingly hot one, and the farmer was out to get a breath of the cool rE air. “ Who are you?” asked the man in the shirt sleeves, ** Come and see.” He came cautiously to the gate. It was so dark he could not distinctly see the features of the men. Reaching the gate he gazed on the dust-cover- ed travelers and cried: “« Why, bless me if it ain’t——” «There, Roderick, never mind, now, what you were going to hg “T won't say it, but I know ye, boys. Git down.” ; ** Are you alone?” ‘*No,. The two boys are here.” “The Ford Boys?” “a Yes.” “The very fellows we want to see, Frank.” - i Yes ” ‘* Do they suspect Roderick?” “ No.” ** Good.” ** Believa ye kin git ’em,” “*Good.” ** Goin’ ter stay all night?” “* Of course.” ‘Been runnin’ them horses, ain’t ye?” “Well, one would suppose we had, to judge by the way they have been sweating,” ‘© Who war it?” “What do you mean, Rod?” “Who war it arter ye?” “Wherd ye lee him?” - e leave him : “He is mt miles away on the other side of the Little Biue.” Isher” +Y ” “Don’t think he’ll come on yer ter-night?” “No. But'Rod?” Ls Wall.” ‘* We want some grab.” ** And borses fed, “Yes. Show us your barn and feed; we al- ss that.” James Boys nearly always made it a tule to tend the feeding and currying and rubbing down their own horses. Their lives of their animals that they could slight them, or intrust the wor! ‘*Pll show you the barn, an’ then go in house an’ git ther old woman to set ther table.” Wheo he had shown them James Boys had removed their saddles from the hot, smoking backs of the hard ridden horses, Snapper turned to go in the e ca ” called - Yes.” He turned about and went to Jesse’s side, “Send one out to help us.” ** One o’ ther Fords?” “Yes, we want ter talk with him.” “ Blamed good idea, boys; which’ll I send?” “ The youngest, be is perhaps the most tible. cxtry tie horses et Peay : r @ dry. **T am quite certain that we will win them,” peta ” ‘Thopeso.” “ We need recruits,” “ Very badly.” ** These two young fellows can just help us out in the Muncie matter.” “« Yes.” «That was a terrible loss, Frank.” © Which?” ‘* The Northfield affair.” * Yes it was.” ** There was Bill Chadwell.” ** Fine old Bill, a braver horse thief never rode on a dark night.” “ And Clel! Miller.” ‘Grand Old Clell, he was never surpassed.” ** Both shot down like dogs in the street.” * Yes—I believe we ought to take vengence on Northfield.” ** How?” « Bure the old town to ashes.” ** Yes, hut can we.” “Go some night.” cd « But I have had quite enough of Northffeld and Minnesota too for that matter; henceforth I prefer to remain in a more congenial clime, even if my operations are limited.” “ But I want vengeance.” “* Whist!” Footsteps were heard without. Jesse James readily 3upposed that the person approaching was none other than the boy, but not being quite certain of it took a step toward the door. ** Yes, it’s Bob Ford.” “Mr. Snapper said you wanted help.” said a young man entering, holding a lighted lantern in his band. “Well, yes, we do.” ** What do you want me to do?” asked Bob. ** Hold the lantern.” *« On, I know you now.” ** Do you?” * Yous ** Who am I?” ‘* Mr. Jackson, the gentleman who told us to meet him here.” ‘*T am.” “ Well, you wanted to-see us?” **Of course. You are Bob Ford?” said Jesse, interrogatively, as he proceeded to rub down Siroc. “ Yes.” “ And your brother is Charley?” « Yes, ** You are brave boys.” : Bob Ford, who was not over sixteen years of age at this time, blushed slightly under the praise. * Well, I don’t think we are cowards,” he said, ‘* I know you are not.” ** Thank you.” ** Don’t you love good horses?” ‘“ Yes.” « And wild adventures?” “You bet.” ** With plenty of money?” “Yes—ha, ha, ba, with plenty of money,” ages aba lik in business?” ** How would you like to engage in ness?” “What Kina?” ‘* A business that pays.” “ Very well.” ‘* You are not going to school now?” ‘No, sir—there is no school.” “ And your school master?” ‘* We kate him.” “ Why?” * “He flogged me two years ago.” ** He did?” “ Yes.” There was a bitter, malicious spirit expressed in the manner in which Bob Ford ground out the words through his teeth. “ Well, Bob—what have you done?” “« Nothing!” “Nothing?” ** No—nothing.” “you are not going to live under that are you? ** Live under it?” ‘That’s what I mean. You are not going to let the matter go unavenged?” ‘If I knew how I would have my revange.” “You can.” “ How?” * Flog him,” “Vm not big sal * Both you could.” “Yes, T'll speak to Charley abont it.” ‘* Unless I am very mucii mistaken in the spirit of you two boys it will not be long until you shave wiped the dishonorable stain from you. ; ; ‘By jingo, we'll do it!” cried Bob. “TI in- tended to wait until I was aman grown.” | ** There is no need to do that,” said Jesse. * Do you think not?” **I do. Do the work of vengeance now. Then come with us for a few weeks until it blows over.” ** But where will you go?" “To Kentucky.” ** We've got no money.” ‘‘We’ll pay all your expenses,” said Jesse. ‘Besides, as we are going horseback, there won’t be much expenses to pay.” “We've got uo horses.” “Well, we'll furnish horses.” A wild plan of securing the Ford Boys to join his band without a single doubt in the matter. ‘There, Frank, that will do,” said Jesse, ‘You bave fine horses, Mr. Jackson,” said b. “Yes, he can’t be beat.” ; **Do you like good horses?” Frank James asked. ‘* Yes, I do.” ‘© You shall have a good horse.” *« As good as that?” ‘Tf as good a one can be found,” said Jesse. ‘Well, that is fine.” ‘Don't you think you would like to go into business with us now?” ‘If I knew the business,” **Ivs a good business.” “Does it pay?” ** Yes.” “Equal to a bank?” «Sometimes better.” “ Well. I'll talk to Oharley.” ** And the schoolmaster?” ** We'll flay him.” ** Will you?” « Yes,” ** When?” ‘* As soon as we cup.” ‘* How far does he live from here?” Bob Ford seemed for a moment to be lost io an effort to make a calculation. «Guess it’s twenty miles.” “Do it to-morrow night,” said Jesse, ** We can’t.” “Why?” ** How could wet” **Go to his house and call him out.” * But wa haven't got horses.” ‘*We'll furnis!: horses and.go with you and see it done.” ; **Great goslings! won’t he be mad?” ** Of course.” ** He will have us arrested.” % No, he won’t. He need not know who you are." «« How can he not know who we are?” ** Put masks on your faces.” “Ha, ha, ha!” laughed Bob Ford, ‘‘ that’s the very thing to do.” ** Of course it’s the very thing to do.” ‘We'll do it.” ‘* And we'll go with you,” suid Jesse, as they went to the house, While Bot Ford was laying his plan of venge- ance before his brother, Jesse and Frank James were holding a private conversation to themselves. *«We have as good as got two recruits without their knowing it, Frank,” said Jesse. ad Yes.” ‘The young fool don’t know that we will put them on a pair of horses stolen right from the neighborhood where they propose to perpetrate the outrage.” “Yes, The plan will work. | Ivwill be a go,” said Frank. “ You are right, it will.” “Then we will have two young valjualile recruits,” ‘* We will.” Having enticed the Ford Boys from their homes, the James Boys determined. no: to Jet go their grasp of them until thoroughly in their power. “If Timberlake or some of Pinkerton’s med- dlesome detectives don’t come to meddle with us,” said Jesse, ‘* we'll have them in forty-eight hours.” CHAPTER II. = BANDITS WITHOUT KNOWING IT. 5 Jesse and Frank James slept and watched by turns that ates a — morning Theodrick Snapper was early ’ astir. On pretense of hunting some stray cows he mounted his Clay-bank mare and rode a mile in the direction from whence the approach of Sheriff Timberlake was expected. But there was no sign of an enemy, i came back to assure his guests that it. => oa * nth! ie ae et ae te * S Peg” they had them ¢
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«How about the boys, Jess?” We'll get them.” « What's yer plan?” : Jesse James then coolly laid before him his diabolical plot. *That’s a good plan, Jess.” “Do you think it will work?” “ Course it will.” -*] thought it would,” ** Wish I war foot loose, I'd go with yer. But I tit chree years through the war with ye, Jess, and I’ve got a piece o’ Yankee lead in my lex which kinder bothers me a leetle mite” **Yon can be more service here, Bob. Stand always ready to help the. boys and don't be afraid of their forgeuing you.” Jesse and Frank then got ready for their plan. Jesse called Bob aside and said: “Bob, you haven't forgotten our talk last night?” és No.” ‘Haven't given ic up?” “Not if we can do it.” ** You can.” * You will help us?” “Yes. Iam. going now to get your horses.” “ Are you?” “Yes, we both go. So you and Charlie be ready to ride at midnight.” It was four o’clock in the afternoon when Jasse and Frank James set ont on their horses down the road toward a rich horse-raiser named Levi Nichols, Old Levi Nichols was a rich farmer, who had always prided himself on the excellency of his horses. The James Boys knew that he had many blooded animals, and that he would visit his vengeance on the head of any one who would dare take one, ** Jess, you've got a level head,” said Frank. 4“ Why?” ba Nobody else would ever have thought of this lan.” : “* Stealing the horses?” «© Yes, and mounting the Fords on them.” **Ha, hal we'll have the officers after us.” “‘Of course.” “And they will see Bob and Charley Ford riding the horses.” “ 'e3,” « Then they will say they are guilty of steal- "It’s an excellent plan.” ye eae ape any hore sitchee dehd 5 t agreed upon ok and Jesse Siniee CRh ine Gira sadtle horses waited for Bob and Charley Ford. “ Now we go to vengeance,” said Bob, as he came out of the house. * And to glory,” put in Frank James. “ Vengéanee enough for me.” ** Later in life you will come to want a little “* Yes.” “Don’t you hear the horses’ feet.” “I do.” « What can it mean?” asked Bob Ford. Bob was entirely ignorant of the fact that he was ‘ing a part of a criminal. “We don’t know,” said Jesse, evasively. “ Lev’s turn aside,” suggested Frank. Jesaz had half drawn his revolver, but shoved it back and guid; “This way, Bob.” hid aye, sir.” ** Can you ride a hardle race?” 4 try t ” guns!” 2 “Can you?” “If the horse can,” 4 ea hold a tight rein and lift him clear.” _ “ Now give him eg od and here we go.” ae and Bob d the hedge at a bound. THE FORD BOYS' VENGEANCE. After all came Charley. His horse went over, but did not catch him- self so well as did the other horses on alighting. The horse stumbled and a leas experienced rider than Charley would have been unseated. Charley brought him to his feet and the little cavalcade became quiet Jesse and Frank listened. Two horsemen galloped down the big road only a few rods away. The trees and bushes which grew between the hedge und road screened them from view. * Come on, come on,” cried one voice. ** Yes—I am, as fast as my horse kin go.” **T’ll have the sheriff after those horse thieves before daylight.” The James Boys smiled, but it. was too dark for their younger companions to note their siniles. ‘Did you recognize that man, Bob?” Jesse asked. “ Yes,” ** Who is he?” ‘Mr. Levi Nichols.” ‘*« Where does he live?” ‘* A few miles east.” * Wonder where he is going?” ‘*To town for the sheritl.” ‘*T would suppose that he had lost some horses.” ‘* Guess he did?” ** Wonder who stole old Levi Nichol’s horses!” asked Charlie, mnozently. ** T have no idea,” Bob answered. “« Well, boys, we will go on now.” ** A right.” They galloped across a wide meadow, and coming to a gate on the other side leaped it and went thundering down a road, The night was dark and cool, the horses all fresh and eager for a gallop. Mile after mile they flew over the road with the untiring energy of steam engines, - lacked some time to daylight when Bob Said: ** He lives just over the hill.” ** Who?” ** The school-master.” “ What's his name?” ‘* Mike Archer.” ** Well, Bob, you will soon be even with him.” ** Oh, [ hope so.” ‘* We will help you if necessary.” They galloped up the hill to ia house where the school-master lived. Mike Archer was a small farmer as well as school-teacher. He taught school during the winter season and farmed in the summer, The advancing horsemen were greeted by the loud barking of d Drawing rein called : ‘* Hello!” The dog barked. theca oO answer ie, augrres ay “* Yes, sir.” “Get down and go and rap on the door,” “Be careful, Bob, you may get a dose of buck shot,” ove Charley. **T will go with you,” answered Jesse. Bob and Jesse dismounted and handed their bridle reins to their two companions, Then they went into the yard. The dogs came at them furiously, but Jesse drew his large dirk knife and stabbed one, aend- ing him howling to his kennel. Rap, rap, rap, went Bob’s riding whip on the door. 2 ‘Who's there?” demanded a voice from with- in. iv up. Mike,” . “Who is itt” “Me,” “Who's me?” **Come out and you'll see.” * Ten’t that Bob Bord?” Bob now discovered that his voice had betray- ed bim. in front, dashed Ws the ‘ “ee _ 2 at the hedge. ” James knew full weil what Siroc could “He knows .me.” eee anek foane of horse flesh and he be- Cale eee a and he. “ i that the animal Bob rode would do as} ‘Is that you, Bob? asked the schoolmaster. {his be was not disappointed. “Wio are sou?" ys. ' the with Siroe, (Thome Jackson,” ¢ Frank James mounted on his > bel what do — want?” ad Ly . ae ‘ your neighbor's over Siroe, was a tl bred fine Pi TET TT ** It’s a serious accident.” pas * Come quick!” “1 will.” Tne unsuspecting Archer, roused from a sound nap, and a little bewildered at this nocturnal call, half dressed himself and opened the door. *“« T wil! dress as soon as possible,” he began. ‘No, come this way!” “Why?” ‘There is no time for you to dress.” ** Who is it?” * You will do better as you are,” answered Jesse, He seized the man by the arm and jerked him into the yard. ‘* What means this insult?” demanded Archer, The schoolmaster was a man of spirit. * Keep quiet.” He saw before him a man with stern, terrible features, leveling a cocked revolver at his head. By the man’s side stood a boy whose face was covered With ua black mask. * What «do you mean?” “Do you see those men at Lhe gate?” “6 Yes.” ** Do you imagine what it means?” ** Robbery?” ** No.” ** What——" “ You are not worth robbing!” “ What do you want?” ** Satisfaction.” ** Satisfaction?” “ Yes.” ‘«T have never done you any harm,” ** But you have harmed others.” i ** How?” ** As school-master.” Archer now began to tremble despite himself. ‘I never did more than was my duty!” the school-master. ‘Down on your knees!” commanded Jesse, sternly. M * What?” ** Down, | say!” * Oh, what do you mean?” “ Down, or I will fire.” The man sank on bis knees. ** Tie him.” Bob, who was provided with cords, proceeded to tie the school-master. In a few moments he had the job completed. **What’s the matter, what’s the matter?” cried a frightened, half-dresse1 woman, rushing from the house. ** Get back in the house and stay there!” cried Jesse James. Bang! went a pistol in the air. With a scream the woman ran back into the house. ** Have you got him tied, Bob?” “ Yes.” ** Come, get up, sir.” “Oh, don’t hang me.” “* We won't.” ** Spare my life.’” ** Yes—we will.” “* What do you intend doing with me?” “TI iptend leading you out here and allow- ing this injured youth to take summary venge- arce on you.” ’ ’ ** For what?” i him in school.” The twit Sapna ground his teeth in silence. * We will give you a taste of your own medi- cine.” . ® 7 “He deserved it, and he knows it.” “Come on, Frank and Charley.” “ Aye, aye!” responded Frank. wat ef eta wl al oe as a grove of w an wi Ww at the rear of the house. O rept a” , ** Here.” ’ “ Will this do?” asked Frank. “ Yes.” Frank sprang from his horse. The achoolsmoster Was ted to a tee. -moster a “ Tear off his shirt.” . “* Yes, sir.” ‘* Have you got your switches?” “Yes.” ere Ratt ae. - and
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. Thick and fast it feliagain and again on the bare shoulders of the scliool-master. Mike Archer was a man of iron nerve, and he endured his punishment without a murmur. The blood was flowing from a score of places when Boo Ford, almost exlausted, threw down the switch, and said: “That will do.” «Well done, Bob Ford. I think he will re- member you now, and be careful how he lays the rod on your back,” said Jesse, ** Hush!” cried_Bob. ‘6 Why?’ ** You must not speak my name,” “ Oh, I bad forgotten.” ** Bob Ford, I know you,” cried the school- master. ‘I know you and your brother, Char- lie both, and I will make you roast for this.” ‘« No threats, sir, or we will liang:you.” ‘* Who. are you?” * Bob Ford's friend.” ** You are no credit to him.” A os stand by each other, don’t we, Bob?” ‘ es.” ‘* What’s your name?” “ Jesse James.” “* 1 believe you.” *« Jess?” said Frauk, a moment later, drawing his brother aside. : ** What, Frank?” ‘«* Why did you give him your name?” “To fasten the Fords to us. ‘ We’ve got them now. They are outlaws without knowing it.” , The school-master was released and went to the house, and the James Boys and their young recruits went five miles further to the home of a Mr, Ellison, where they halted and dismounting went to bed. Bob and Charley Ford were in an aujoining apartment, Tue James Boys did not both sleep at once, for they rather expected pursuit. Mr. Ellison, who was a friend of theirs, kept the four horses saddled under the window ready for them to mouct. Bob and Charlie, little dreaming that they had in a life of outlawry in earsest, slept p of the innocent, 19 eu. the 8) CHAPTER III, ; A WILD CHASE. ‘* CHARLIE, Charlie, wake up!” cried Bob, «« What’s the mat.er?” ««T don’t know.” Thump! Thump! um s+ Gome one is knocking.” hia It seemed to the Ford Boys that they had scarcely closed their eyes. The sun was rising, and the apartment. in which they slept was quite light. ; “Thomp, thump, thamp!” nm came the fall of a fist upon the door of their room. ** Who is there?” “Iv is 1." om Yes,” ** What’s the matter?” “Get up! Be quick!” “ All rigbt.” “ — dressed” sé I ng. 1 ** Get your pistols.” “Ig it so serious, Mr. Jackson?” “oe Yes.” ‘ “ Well, I will get them.” a the door.” Bob made haste to open the door. Before him stood Jesse James, dressed and armed, ready to drop in the saddle, +‘ What is the matter?” asked Bob. “They are coming.” “Who?” “To arrest you.” “ 5 aborted I a A - =). 1 the schoo) . “Do they know it was me?” De sow ob, but you bave not a second * Where is Frank?” “In the saddle.” Work: hot at thie ent. ey a aes "ibe air and a volley of on shot. . three bullets passed into the window . realized that the con- begun. ore ‘* This way,” said Jesse. He lead them out at the rear. Frark was discovered sitting on his hoyse at the corver of the house, aiming a pistol at some one. Bang! **Mount,” cried Jesse, The Fora Boys were in their saddles in a mo- 4 meut. Jesse leaped on Siroc. ** Come!” he cried. Away they went. Over the garden picket fence and up the bili. They were now in full view of the sherifi’s posse. Oli Levi Nichols, who was one of the posse, cried: “There they go. There go my two horses that were stole jast night. Bob and Charley Ford are on ’em. I allers knew them fellers were hoss thieves.” Jesse James heard this information with no little exultation, ‘* [ve got the Ford Boys now without a doubt,” he thought. ** They dare not desert me.” Away they flew over the meadow. Then they leaped a fence, Bob and Charlie were well mounted. Both were light riders and their horses soon learned to leap fences and clear ditches witb all the facility of the world-revowned Siroe and Jim Malone. Over all barriers they flew like birds, and soon distanced the main body of pursuers. “Mr. Jackson,” said Bob. Bob Ford still believed Jesse James to be Mr. Henry Jackson, as he had represented himself. “What, Bob?” «Did you hear him?” ** Who?” * Old Levi Nichols.” es.” ‘* He said these were his horses.” “So he did, but they are not.” * Whose are they?” ‘Yours. You have possession.” ** Yes, but are they ours?” ** Of course.” ‘He said they were stolen.” “Stolen or not, they are yours.” Bob heaved a sigh. There was something dark and mysterious about it all which could not be comprehended. ** Jesse!” whispered Frank. ** Well?” ‘There are three of those fellows gaining on us. : ““] know it.” ‘What had we better do?” “ When we a over the next hill I will halt, and you and the boys can go on.” “« Well” “* Don’t let them get out of your sight.” “ T won't.” : “They are young and tender yet. We must harden them as soon as possible, as they may ” “ Yes “Go on.” “ What is le going to do” asked Bob. - They had passed over the hill, and Jesse James dismounted. They were now on one of those prairie roads, and the water flowing down the hill had cut small ditches on either side of it. ~ Jesse James had dismounted. “He is going to tighten his saddle girth,” said Fra nk. «But he bas drawn his revolyer!” «That's to scare the otliers away.” There was a thick clump of hazel bushes at the roadside, and Jesse James went behind this. “Lie down, Siroc—lie down.” — lh Bob Ford, who was interested in the proceed- ing, still looked back as they thundered on. “What is he going todo?” “Fix bis saddle,” Frank repeated. “Bat his horse is down.” «Tt will be all right.” “Tam afraid he is going to fight.” ‘*What if he does?” “*Some one will be killed.” “It will not be he.” “But we don’t want the crime of blood, of murder, added to us. We are already accused of —— stealing, something we did not do,” said “You won't be guilty.” ‘No, but they’ll say we are in bad company.” “ - you think you are in bad company?” ‘ —no. But the manner In which he hesitated would lead one to believe some one to think he still en- \ * tertained a doubt. **Bov?” said Frank. All the ume they were galloping at 2 break- neck speed over the prairie, * What?" asked Bob, ** Don't you know that your safety depends on you staying with us?” “«T don’t know.” “If you fall back or leave us you will certainly Le arrested and sent to jail, then to the peni- tentiary.” ‘*For whipping Mike?” “oe No.” ** What” * Stealing horees.” ** We didn’t steal these horses.” **You can’t make u jary believe yoa inno- cent.” ‘*No,” put in Charlie, ‘* We are in for it now, Bob, jand our only hope is to stay with these men. ‘‘ Where will you take us?” asked Bob. ‘* Where you will be safe.” ‘*To Kentucky?” *- Yes.” «* Won’t they find us there?” ‘We'll go under other names.” Bob now turned in his saddle to again gaze at Jesse James. The bandit chief was kneeling behinc his horse, which lay on the ground, and had cocked bis re- volver. **Come on,” cried Frank. They descended another hill, and in a moment were out of sight of Jesse. Daring indeed must the bandit king have been to have waited alone to meet the enemy, three to one, and all desperate men. A moment later Bob heard the sharp report of a pistol. Again, again and again the shots rang out on the air and then all became still. A few moments later Jesse was seen galloping after them, while afar could be discovered a riderless horse galloping over the plain. A few moments later Jesse James joined them. His face was calm and unmoved as if nothing had happened. Bob Ford shuddered, but said nothing. The truth began to dawn upon him. That night the four stopped in a wild, Jonely wood to camp for the night. Frank and the Fords built a camp fire while Jesse went off to forage for provisions, which is another term for stealing or taking by force. He had not been gone more than two hours before be retarned with a ham of bacon, three chickens, a goodly quantity of bread, ajar of preserves, half a peck of potatoes and a griddle. coftee-pot, and utensils sufficient for their pur- pose ; No one questicned Jesse as to how he had so bountifully supplied himself. He had also brought some oats and corn for the horses. But then the earth was covered with rach bis? which grew in abundance under the trees and they knew they would feast that night. A supper was prepared which the four hungry men enjoyed. Bob and Charlie were strangely silent. Jesse watched them, and when they gota little apart to themselves he crept close up behind a tree where he could hear what they said to each other. «Well, Charlie, do you know I've got strange suspicions,” said Bob. * Of who?” “These men.” “ You mean Jackson and Frank Dann?” - “ Yes. ” . “¢ What do you suspect?” Charlie usked. ‘« They are not what they seem.” “ Do you think so?” ‘Yes, That man is not Jackson. The man called Frank has called bim Jesse several times.” There was a silence. ** Well, Bob, our fates run with theirs.” “Yes; but, Charlie, I’m sorry we whipped Mr. Archer.” “Why?” « We are outlaws now.” “Of course.” “© Well, I believe these fellows are outlaws.” “Could it be possible?” t “ What be possible?” ‘ “That they are the James Boys.” > Latest “TI don’t know. One is Frank and one is Jesse.” : “That's the names of the James Boys.” Wee he : * Can it be?” aii «| don’t know.” Then both became silent. Ms
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SSS Jesse James crept away with a smile on his face. > it was a wicked smile and one which might be thought dangerous. — As soon as Bob and Charlie came back to the camp fire he said: « Boys, sit down, I want to talk with you.” Bob jooked up in surprise. ** Abont what?” he asked. «* About ourselves.” «* Well, 1 am ready.” “There seems to be a little uncertainty in your minds as to what and who we are?” «© Yes, we don’t exactly know.” “ You don’t believe I am Mr. Jackson, do you, Bob?’ ‘“No.” «Tam not.” “* 1 krew it.” ** Now, who do you think T am?’ ** Jesse James, of course.” “oe Correct.” « You are?” asked Charlie. “ Yes.” “ And he?” pointing: to Frank. “Ts Frank James. ‘Is he? “ Yes. ” “Then you are——” « The James Boys.” A silence of a few moments fell on the group. Frank stirred up the fire to make it burn bright- er and went out to look after the horses. At last Jesse broke the silence, “‘Thave deemed it best,” he said, “ that we understand each other.” * Yes,” Bob answered. * We are outluws,” *« And we?” * Likewise outlaws.” Bob sighed. ** The horses you rode belonged to Levi Nich- ols. He saw you and recognized you on them. Now, if you attempt to return to your homes you will find yourselves arrested.” ‘What are you going to do?” Bob asked. “ Keep my word with yon—we will now go to Kentucky and if you will be true to us, daring and bold, we shall live such a life of grandeur and splendor as was never known to you be- fore. It will be one continued round of excite- ment and splendor. You shall not lack for money. The wealth of kings shall be yours and you can svon win a name that will make you a terror.” Somehow the Ford Boys caught the fire of his enthnsigsm and their eyes sparkled. “Will you be one of our gallert band?” ** Yes,” said Bob. Bob was young, most enthusiastic and impul- sive and was first to speak to proclaim himself one of the band. « And you, Charley?” “*T will also.” “Then it’s settled.” Jesse James took from a strange pocket on the inside of his vest over next his heart a long narrow book. It was covered with hlack leather. Then he opened it and by aid of the fire-light read a most terrible oath which every one who joins the band was compelled to subscribe. . The Ford Boys sat in.silence and listened to the terrible obligation which in its strange biud- ing force equaled the famous black oath of pers c ‘Now you have both heard this?” he said bees he had finished reading. ~ : “oe es. _ ‘* What do you say? Will you subscribe to it?” Both the Ford Boys were dient for a few mo- ments, and then Bob who was first to'speak, said; «We had as well, Charlie. It seems to be. our only safety.” ‘ "4 ifs agg ‘ “You are sensible,” said Jesse pagsec the book to them, — ’ ibaa Each wrote bis name. “Now you are down. You the James Boys band.” « We know it.” - «Let's go to sleep.” is : ‘Frank was left on guard while the other three ORE oe middle of the night Bob and Charlie both aroused from a sound n heari wild cries of alarm and tus oeatK tepercer tre. baa 1 up! up!” cried Jesse James, seizing rs wi by are members of the shoulders and pa wea ag at the | time jerking them to their a mevhat ne” “The sheriff and his men.” rex oS * Where is my horse?” es THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. ‘«« Here, here!” Bang! Bang! Blinding fiashes and deafening reports rang out on the air on every side. Bob staggered toward his horse. ** Are you hit?” asked Jesse. *T con’t know.” ** Here—mount quick!” **Oh, Iam so sick.” “Let me help you to mount.” ‘*T believe I shall fall.” “Courage, courage, Bob.” Frank and Charhe Ford were fighting like heroes. Bang! Bang! Crack! Crack! went gun and pistol. The sheriff and his mea were now so close that their powder burned the horses, and they were rearing and plunging. ‘* Where are you wounded, Bob?” asked Jesse James. ‘In the shoulder.” **©an you sit on your horse?” “Pil try : Jesse leaped on Siroc. He seized the reins in his teeth, and with a revolver in each hand charged on the posse, fir- ing.shois so rapidly that he looked like a fire- vomiting machine. Men and horses tumbled over each other in their anxiety to get away. «Away, Frank, away!” cried Jesse James, wheeling Siroc about and galloping toward his friends. ** Bob! can you ride?” he asked. “1 will try.” Away they flew. Sheriff Timberlake rallied his forces and pur- Then commenced a wild, desperate flight which lasted for two hours, but finally resulted in the escape of the James’ and the Fords. CHAPTER IV. MOLLIE HAYS AND 3OB. One year has rolled by since the scene we de- scribed in our last chapter. A year that was famous in the record of the great Missouri banditti. : Iu seemed as if the band had suddenly been inspired with new life and vigor. Those who pupliesied after the disaster at Northfield, Minnesota, in which two men had been killed and three captured, that the Missouri ou:laws would’ soon be no more were destined to disappointment. was a bitter disappointment to many. sued. Trains and stage coaches were stopped by the daring highwaymen, banks boldly entered and robbed in broad daylight, and a more terrible state of affairs followed than had ever been known before. New life and new blood seemed to have been suddenly instilled into the band. A delightful day in the month of June is just drawing to a close. The sun which all day long had pursued its course over the earth in golden splendor was now setting. An old-fashioned farm-house stands at the road-side, and by the gate of the farm-honse stands a pretty girl of fifteen or sixteen sum- mers swinging on the gate. Her eyes huve a far-away look as:if she was recalling something in the dim past. “Pll never see him again,” she finally said, and a sigh escaped her heaving breast. . Twilight was falling gertly over the earth and objects growing more and more indistinct. - Suddenly the tramp of hoofs could be heard. * Whio is coming at this hour?” she asked her- self. Then she glanced up the hill and saw a borse- man riding toward her. » He was a young horseman. A ee fa young fellow, who -had about him the bold, dashing air of a cavalier or a free rider. j **Who is he?’ the girl asked, opening wide her great blue eyes, : She looked again, then tnrned her eyes to the house to see if any one was watching her. ; ‘His form is familiar, yet I can’t make out his face.” The girl had not long to wait. The dashing young cavalier galloped quickly up to her side and dismounting, 3 * Mollie!” “ Yes,” : . us ‘You haven’t forgotten me?” Y y ¥ yn" Yi race ping iA + Ob, Bob, do you think I would ever forget. you?” ** Mollie, I Lave come a long way to see you?” ** Have you—ob, Bob!” “ What?” “I have heard such awful stories about you!” ** About me?” “Yes, and Charlie?” ‘« What were they?” **T can’t—I won’t repeat them.” ‘Now, Moilie, I don’t want you to think I am as bad as 1 am represented.” **T don’t.” «You don’t credit the stories, then?” ** No.” “Thank you, Mollie.” But, Bob, why have you stayed away so long?” Bob was silent for a moment, and then said: «1 could not come sooner, Mollie.” “Why?” : ‘« People hate me, Mollie.” ‘« Why do they, Bob? You haven’t been bad, have you, to make people hate you?” “Come with me somewhere, Mollie, where I can talk with you, and I will tell you my story. It is a dark story, but not so black as painted.” “Come in the house, Bob.” “I cannot.” ‘© Why?” ‘* Your father and mother must not see me.” ‘“*Where do you want me to go with you, Bob?” ‘* Anywhere, Mollie, where we can talk with- out danger of being seen; this place is tvo pub- lic for us to talk here.” The old apple orchard was near. Behind it in their younger days they had played often, and now it invited them. Mollie turned her great blue eyes fondly and trustingly to Bob Ford, who had now made a name us great perhaps as any of the bandits. . Could it be the innocent school boy whom she had once known and thought to be the model of innocence? When. they were hidden from the road by the old orcharé, Bob and Molhe sat down upon we soft green grass, and ke said: ** Mollie, I suppose you have beard all kinds of stories of me?” “ Yes,” ‘6 “That I was a robber?” oe Yes.” ‘* What is the worst?” «Oh, Bod, I can’t tell you the worst.” : “Do they say that I belong to the James Boys’ band?” ; * They do.” “Well, What can be worse?” “That you murder.” “That is. false,Mollie—I swear that that is false.” **T never believed it.” ; ‘IT have. been bad, I will admit, but I bave rever been so bad as painted.” “Oh, Bob, why did you——” ** Become bad?” os Yes.” ‘* I will tell you,” said Bob. , But before explaining all to her he took a peep around the fence corners to assure himeelf that no one was watching for them, ; ‘Bob, are you afraid of being seen?” “o es.” oa Wh “Mollie, I have almost come to dread sight of the face of my fellow men.” “Oh, Bob,” ‘«Hasb, you know not what it*is to be hunted like a beast.” ' ** Why didn’t you come to me?” ‘* Would you protect me?” . “T would.” * You could not, Mollie.” “* But you were going to tell me something. Don’t forget to do so.” i se yes, to tell you why I left the country.” “ es.” ‘«Well, you remember it is nearly three years ago that T was going to school to Mike Archer.” * Yes, : the * And so were you.” “T was.” ; «You know, Mollie, how proud I was?” “ I do.” . “No boy had ever beaten meat ball, foot or #1 know it.” ts ; * One day, Mike Archer he gave me a whip- “I remember it.” ** You were present. You saw my degrada-
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3 tion and humiliation and I swore I would be avenged,” **Oh, Bob!” “IT did. I brooded over the awful thing for months, until one vight two men came to our house. They seemed like very nice gentlemen. One of them talked with me and hinted of a business by which a young man could become rich | and powerful by being bold and desper- ate. «Neither Charlie nor I suspected what he had reference to, but we met him and the other man a few weeks later at Snapper’s.” ** Did he tell you?” ** Not then.” «« And the men were the James Boys?” ** Yes, but we didn’t know it.” ‘« Well, what did they propose? What did you do” “*In some way I told him of the schoolmaster, Mike Archer, and of my humiliation. ** What did he say?” y “ Jesse James and Frank both advised me to have satisfaction. To seek revenge.” “© And you did?” “How!” “ You have heard the story?” “‘Only partly.” “They brought horses to us one night, and we mounted them and rode to Mike Archer's, took him out and whipped him. *- We were pursued, and next day almost cap- tured. Then for the first time.we learned that we rode stolen Liorsea.” “Then you did not steal the horses from Levi Nichols?” ‘* No.” “Oh, I am so glad.” “You heard we did?” “ bd “ Well, Mollie, since then we have lived like fhurted animals.” ** Poor Bob!” ** My life has béen one constant scene of ex- citement, but I bave never yet shed blood.” “Oh, Bob, I am so glad.” “Tam nota coward. I have shown that I could be bold and defiant.” “TI know you could.” “But, Mollie. I am tired, oh, so tired of this constant flight, this constant watching—night rices, alarms, fights, and danger.” ** Oh, Bob, I can guard you. *« You could not. without food.” * Do yuu?” “ Yes.” “ Eb, bytes h ” “T have di no since yesterday.” ** Well, I will bring you some.” r She rose to go. “ Mollie, don’t leave me just yet.” “ Why?’ “Tam afraid you will never come back.” «1 will, Bob. “IT might not be here-when you come, and, Mollie. I want to know before you go away from me whether you believe what I have told you to ve true?” . ; I do.” “It is true, Mollie. And I confessed ey . rt the charges against me were true, and tha’ Phaze been bad.” 4“ —— ~ “ ax LF ton forgive me? * Mollie, how is your fatLer about me ?” “Oh, Bob, [ had forgotten papa, fe is very on you.” Then aguin I go for days hard “Is he?” ; « Yes, erhon dias rte when I said I wished you would come , he vowed that if you did he would have you arrested and sent to jail.” “* Mollie, it’s Ler: pt Ie? Bey 1" «* Yes—but papa is just terrible. He must not you.” *T don’t intend heshall. Bat you will not be hard on me. will you, Mollie?” But “No. let me go now and get you some “Go.” She was in a moment. Bob’s horse was grazing on the which grew in the common, and the young it kept a continual lookout everywhere lest he should be “There is Timberlake and Carl Greene, Pinkerton’s detective, on our heels,” said Bob to himself. “Now { may expect a very unwelcome visit from them at any moment.” He went to the corner of the fence again and glanced up the roa and own the read, Then he took his revolver from his belt and a> #¢ THE FORD BOYS’ It was all right, and the chambers loaded. “This never fails.” He returned it. In a few moments Mollie came back. She had a basket, over which a clean neat napkin was spread. “Well, Mollie, where is your father?” Bob usked. ‘In the house. Oh, he must not know that you are here.” ; * He would, I presume, kill me.” “He would Laud you over to the officers.” ‘* No, Mollie, I woald never be taken alive. You may at some time hear of me being taken dead. but never alive.” «Oh, Bob, don’t talk so awful. Here is some food. Eat—and here is a bottle of wine, I brought you from the cellar.” ** Did they see you?” ** Who?” «Your folks at home?” *:No, I took care not to be seen,” ‘That was right.” ** Here is some boiled bam.” *«That is good.” « And here is bread I made myself.” * That's better.” “Now eat what you want and take the re- mainder with you.” He began euting. ‘* Mollie, go to the corner and listen.” She did so. ‘Do you hear a noise?’ he asked. 4-Yidg. 422°. « What is it?” **It is horses.” ** Coming this way, too.” ‘What are you going to do, Bob?” ** Kither run or fight.” *«But they may not be after you.” «Yes, they are—there can be no question.” «Do you know who they are?” ** Yes.” * Who?” «« Kither Timberlake or the detective. know which. Pérhaps both.” “Oh, what must we do?” “IT must go.” ** And leave your dinner?” “ Yes.” ** And you so hungry?” *« Yes, Mollie. Lam very hungry.” ‘“*Take it with you.” He took up the basket and mounted. ** Good-bye, Mollie.” **Good-by,” she sobbed. ; «Don't let them see vou cry. Be brave.” «1 won't,” wiping her eyes. * Mollie” * What?” Do you ever want to see me again?” “ Yes.” : * You shall.” Then he turned his horse’s head about and was gone like a flash. Mollie waited until he was completely lost to view from the road, and then went out into the broad, dusty thoroughfare. The roar of approaching horses could be dis- tinctly heard. © He was right she thought. They are officers coming for him, Mi ery snes “eng rein se front bea father’s J a powerful man $ ** Helloa, helloa, What's the matter?” asked Mr. Hayes, coming to the door. «« Ig that you, Jim Hayes?” « Yes, who are you?” « “ Timberlake.” “ The sheriff.” o Yes.” ‘© You don't want me.” « No—we are after one of the gang of James monies ill get him.” t you w m. “ We traced him to your house.” ** My house?” “ Yes.” * He is not here; search.” ** Perhaps he went past it,” su: one. At this moment Mollie came sauntering leisurely up the road. ar there just in time for the sheriff to * Say. young Indy, have you seen anyone go by on a b'ack horse?” P , § ** No, sir,” she answered. ** How long have you been in the road.” * Since before sunset.” I don’t “Then he has not come this far.” said Sheriff ys, he has doubled on us, aad Timberlake. “ let ns back at once and get on his trail.” Timberlake and his posse immediately wheeled VENGEANCE. about their horses and galloped away like mad men. CHAPTER V. THE SHOT THROUGH THE FENCE, ONLy a short distance away from where the scene had just been enacted, Bub Fora sat on his horse. « Well Gone for Mollie,” said the bandit. He laughed to himself as he galloped down a woo'led path to the creek bank. There he halted w few moments, undecided what to cio. ‘*With Timberlake hot on our trail, we have poor prospects of making much of u scout in this neighborhood,” he thought, ‘But I'll be at the rendezvous at midnight.” Then he galloped down the bank of the creek, which was lined with a dense forest. _. He came to a place where the path crossed the stream, and gallo along.a road over a hill. s **Woa, Dick! We'll get there too soon,” said ob. He drew rein at the foot of a great oak tree and dismounted. A year had made a great change in Bob Ford. He was no longer the bright, innocent youth, but a dashing, reckless brigand. There was an air about him so decidedly brigandish, that he would ve a suspicious char- acter to meet with on a dark night. ** Well, I am infor it now,” suid Bob, with a reckless little laugh. ‘‘ I’m a full fledged high- wayman. I dou’t know how it began, nor is there any knowing how itis going to end, I have never had any intention of harming any one, but it seems that everything has gore wrong with me. I love adventure. wild excite- ment and a stirring life, and Lam getting my fill of it, there can be no doubt.” An hour was spent there beneath the tree and again mounting he galloped away to the school house, the place of rendezvous, ‘‘T have one cousolation,” Bob said to him- self as he galloped through the woods. ‘ Mollie is my my friend.” Two miles more in a rouud-about circuit brought him back to within u mile of the farm house of Mr. Hayes, to what was known as the Hayes sciiool house. Theschool house stood in a dense wood upon the top of a grassy ridge und there was a little cleared spot around it all about which the grim dark and silent forest rose. There were but three roads leading to tlie school house and there were deep dark ravines on every side except where the three roads ap- proached it. «It must be the barn!” thought Bob as he came in sight of the school house. *\ Halt!’ called a voice. He dee rein at ones. and seized a pistol. A shri) wiistle sounded. Bob answered the whistle. ‘*Who are you?” «know that voice,” thought Bob. ** Charlie,” he called, Come on. ‘* Are they all here” “ No.” ** Who have arrived.” «*No one bat Jesse.” ‘‘ Hasn't Frank nor none of the others come?” “Not yet.” “« Will they come?” ** Of course.” ‘Well, we are once more at the old school- house, Charlie.” “ Yes.” “Do you remember the last time we were here?” - “Very well.” ‘Mike Archer flogged me.” “ And you said you wouid never come back again until you had got even with bim,” “ Rong Don’t you think I am even?” “ as. ~ ‘ Pa we have led a curious life since then.” “ ob.” *“ What?” : “Dor’t it seem we have lived an age since then?” ; "at wont a gheages tas come, bout “What a anges come since last we left here? ; Then the hoys sighed. - ies who are engage’ in, the most prosperous who are osp pees ene eeeid “ahiehtoelt sometience Sega wre had a good time, Charlie,” id «But we have a "ga Bob with a laugh. Siege rok
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 9 ee nn nO Fe “« We have.” *¢ We have been everywhere.” * Lived like kings part of the time.” «That’s go, brother, bat part of the{time we bave had a hard time of it.” *«T suppose such things will sometimes bap- pen in all kinds of calling.” “Oh, I wish——” “* What?” «* Nothing.” The Ford Boys at this early period in their career of crime dared nor even to each other breathe the wishes which came in their hearts. Bob at last said: - ay will go up now and see Jesse James and ou—— ‘Tam on guard here.” “ Are you?” Yes.” * Well keep your eyes open, Charlie, for Timberlake and a large posse of men are in the neighborhood.” “ What!” cried Charlie. “ Didn't you know it?” ‘No. How did you learn it?” ‘* Saw ’em.” “* When?” “A little after sunset.” “ Where?” . « At farmer Hayes’ house.” “* You were there?” “Yes.” «See any of them?” ** Mollie.” «* None others?” “ No,” «Did she recognize you?” “Of course, I had along talk with her end she brought me an elegant supper.” *« Ah, Bob, you have ruined us.” «“ Why?” “« Mollie will give us away.” «She will do nothirg of the sort.” « Won’t she?” ** No I wiil trust my life in Mollie; I knw her.” «But, Bob, it won’t do to let the captain learn of this,” “ Why” “ He won’t approve a” ‘*No, he won’t learn of us ever making our- selves known to any one who once knew us.”’ “Tt is strictly against rules.” After a moment’s silence Bob said: *« But [ must tell him about Timberlake.” “ i: course. Did Timberlake chase you?” o 0. **Didn’t he see you?” “No.” - s eal see him?” «Where was you?” ‘Hidden amoag some bushes. Mollie threw them off the track.” “Did she?” o Yes ” “Then she must be our friend.” *¢Tn fict and in truth she is.” ““Well, I hope she may get them entirely off the track.” “So do I, but, Charlie, I must go to Jesse now and report,” owe sounded a peculiar whistle, and said: Bob halted for the answer. A moment later it came. “ All rignt; go ahead, Look sharp now, It won't do to be Tkeod with the chief. Bob reached the school-house, passed the — which surrounded it, and Side nis ‘The door was ox closed and the school-house Bob walked boldly to the cas *- Come in,” said. ee an ee from within. inne carefully opened: the door, and a voice “ Stop—who are you?” It was dark as Itoh inside the school-house, ag yy ny i tee nothing. 4 _ “What's your name?” ” Mose 7 _ | here just as soon as we can.” ‘It’s all right, Bob, come in,” said Jesse, turning off the light from his lantern. *« Jess, you take a great many precautions,” Bob remarked. ‘ Yes—eternal vigilance is alone the price of safety to us, Bob.” ‘[ know it; but my voice ought to have con- vinced you.” ‘* Hearing is only one of the senses and may be deceived. Never depend en one test alone; try all,” said Jesse James. The first thing the bandit chief tried to impress ob a new recruit was caution. ~ ‘* Always be cautious,” hesaid. ‘* Bevautious of friends, be cautious of strangers, be cautious of each other, and cautious of yourselves.” ‘* Well, Bob, what have you to report?” Jesse asked as soon as Bob was seated. * Something alarming. “What is iv?” , “Timberlake is in the neighborhood.” “Ts he?” ** Yes.” ‘Have you seen him?” “T did.” ‘* Where?” ** At a farm house about @ mile from here.” ‘* When?” ** At sunset.” “ Did he see you?” No.” ** Quite sure?” “ Yes ” «« Why are you sure?” ‘* Because I would have g»t a shot or chase if they had seen me.” ‘‘ There’s some truth in that.” “Very much truth in it.” ** Which Way were they going?” “They were coming in this direction, and stopped and talked witha farmer tLen went off in an eastern direction.” “He put them on the wrong scent?” “* Yes, sir.” ‘* Well, let me see. We have no [friends in this oN of the country have we?” oe ri hg ** But you have acquaintances here.” ‘*] have, but J wouid not dare show myself to mapy of them.” ** No—but do you know the farmer with whom Timberlake talked?” ‘* His name was Hayes.” ** Hayes, Hayes, old Jimmy Hayes?” Jease shook his head. ** He is no friend of ours.” Again the signal in the distance sonnded. ** Other arrivals,” said Jesse James. He answered the signal. Then came an interval of silence. A few moments later when the sound of foot- steps were heard the click-click of Jesse's re- volver, indicated that he was prepared to receive a foe as well as a friend. But it proved to be Frank and Wood Hite. * Come in,” said Jesse. ** Others are coming.” said Frank. oo Near?” “ Yes.” ** Who?” e Dick Little, Jim Cummins, and Hobbs Ker- ry. “46 Well, we are ready for business as soon as all get here.” “We will want to get through, Jesse, as soon as — remarked Frank. oe y ‘“« Timberlake is in the neighborhood.” *« Ts he?” & Yes.” * How far away?” ‘* He was seen half an hour before sunset three miles away.” ‘He was seen since spnset only a mile away.” “ .”, “oe Yes.” “By whom?” « Bob saw him.” ** Bob Ford?” “ Yes.” \ At Mr. Hayes’ hovse,” Bob answered, “ 4 es “ Bat he pao back toward the east,” said Frank James gave a quick, nervous gasp and said: “Then, Jesse, we had better get away from the whistle sounded. “ now?” wa Cummins was sent out to act as picket aiso. The banditti now assembled in the schooi- house, and Jesse James turning on the light, said: ‘* Now, boys, let us get to discussing the mat- ter.” They at once began to talk over the prospects. Another said: ‘*Shall it be a bank or a train?” * A train,” put in Dick Little. Pad many say train?” om iad “ And J.” *«What say you, Bob?” «« Either.” “Then it shall be a train. What train?” **The Chicago and Alton. They always carry a good healthy express,” put in Kerry. ‘“* You are right.” ‘* How many say the Chicago and Alton? All who do signify the same by saying aye,” “Aye,” rang out the answer like a thunder peal. “Then that is settled. It will be the Chicago and Alton.” “When?” asked Dick Little. “One week from to-night.” «That's it. One week from to-night.” There was a momeunt’s silence, when suddenly there came a strange sharp cry. ** Danger!” cried Jesse. “To arms.” Every man was on his feet. : = gael cried a voice from the woods, rack! Crack! Bullets whizzed into the school-house. ** Outside!” thundered Jesse James, cocking a pair of revolvers, ‘‘ Outside, and cut your way through.” The bandi(ti rushed out of the house in a body. The horses came thundering toward them. All was confusion. Men could be seen gallop- ing hither and thither, and there was rashing, shouting, shooting, The sereams of frightened horses, yells of combatants, and thunder of horses’ hoofs, min- gled with sharp reports, made a fearfal din. This was bandit fighting in Missouri. Bob Ford stood near the gate. . “Bob, Bob, where are you?” called a voice, in the darkness. ** Here.” It was Charlie’s. ** Bob, we are in a close place.” “Ta “They are all around us.” g! Those last shots were from a double-barreled shotgun. “ Bob, are you hit?” “Ne «Then you must look out.” At this moment Bob saw a man by the fence. He fired through the fence, and the man fell. ** Well done, Bob, well done,” cried Jesse. “Did I kill him?” asked Bob, frightened at the thought. «Tt seems so” Bob was horrified. He tried to see i. the man got up, but several rsons were between them, and he was forced to the horses. Then they mounted and dashed wikily through the gate. Timberleke’s men tried to stop them, but it was all in vain. They pressed on and on, and cut their way through. All through the wild, terrible charge Bob Ford was like one bewildered and confused. He sat on his horse as one in a dream. They were free from pursuers and far away, and he asked himself over and over H “Was that shot through the fence
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10 THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. _— «* Have you counted every man?” *« Every one.” ** Are any burt?” <*No.” ** Well, boys, we cume out of a close place.” ** Indeed we did,” said Jim Cummins. ‘For a moment I thought we would not get out of the fire,” put in Wood Hite. “Oh, we ure creatures of fate,” said Jesse. “It seems that way.” “T wish we had downed more of those ras- cals,” said Frank James, somewhat bitterly. « Did you see Bob drop one?” “Through the fence?” +“ Yes.” “T did. Was he killed?” ‘*No,” answered Wood Hite. “I saw him get up right away.” Bob Ford heaved a sigh of relief. A few moments later, when he and Charlie were apart from the others, Bob saii: “© Oh, Charlie, I could almost shout for joy.” “« Why?" **T am go happy.” «¢ What has made you so happy, Bob?” “T did not kill him.” «* Didn’t you want to?” +t No,” ** Then why.dii you shoot at him?” “7 don’t know. He was going to shoot at me, and all was in such excitement and hubbub, 7 got excited and blazed away with the rest. But ifI had killed him then I would have been a murderer and hang.” + Are you afraid of being hung?” asked Jesse James, who had come rear to them unobserved. “ Yes. «* Well, then, kill the sherifi’s detectives and police. Make them afraid of you.” Bob made no enswer. They were now in a dense lonely forest. Such forests are only to be found in Missouri and Southern states. Jn their dark, lonesome haunts one could wan- der for weeks without being ssen by a human being. There the deer and bear still roamed in de- fiance of the hunter, and men have been lost and wandered until starvation or death by some wild animal found them. Jesse and Frank James were well acquainted with the forests, They could traverse them as easily as the mariner can the boundless ocean, and when they were lost in the forest they had only to get the four points of the compass and steer their way out. “Will Timberlake pursue us here?” asked Wood Hite. ‘* No,” said Dick Little. «© Why?” «* Because he has enougii of us.” «* Don’t be too sure, Dick.” <|Why?” : «© Timberlake is rfot so easily disposed of.” “ Do you think not?” 4“ Yes.” *< How do you know?” +* He's not easily settled.” y “You are afraid of him.” “*Tam not. But I am nota fool.” “© Who is?” a _ #* Any man who says Timberlake is done for. ** Do you call me a fool?” * Do you call me a coward?” “se Yes.” ae Liar. ” «+ He called me a coward.” “ Dick Little, Wood Hite, I amgashamed of ‘ou. : z Jesse then shook the two men by their should- asonder. : ers aud pushed them % uo} “Shame on you. Would you ruin the band?” he asked. — 4 “No, but I won't be insulted by Dick Little,” put in Wood Hite. ; Ld - « And I won't be insulted by Wood -——” * Silence!” — ' Jesse James was master of the situation. : He commanded a desperate band of men, and ha Jesse knew and gazing at them with an eye wileh flashed like fire in 2 gloom of The two belligerant bandits slunk away, and es Kerry approaching Dick Little, whis- pered: “* Dick!” “ What?” * The captain means it.” Dick ground his teeth in silence. Wood Hite retired grumbling. Jesse James went to bim, and said: ‘* Wood Hite, you ungrateful deg, I will have no dissensions bred by you. Do you hear me?” “ Yes.” “If you utter another word I’ll stab you to the heart.” ** Jesse——” ** Silence, dog! I will kill you!” Wood Hite’s eyes kindled with wrath. Jesse turned away, and the discomtited bandit growled through his teeth: ** He is a tyrant!” Bob Ford heard the remark, bat said nothing. The banditti were dismounted in the dense wood, and Jesse James determined to pass the night there. He had a fire built, and the horses picketed, sentries placed, and the meu grouped about the re. Soon all were dozing. The night was well nigh spent. Suddenly on the air, there came the loud re- port of a gun. ** Charley! Charley!” cried Bob Ford, shakiog his brother. ** What is it?” *« Enemy.” ** Steady all!” The sleepy Ford Boys recognized the thunder- ing tones of Jesse James as he uttered the cry to his men. ** Steady all! beat them back!” What a wild yell! What a charge, and the crash of guns and snorting of horses! Friend and foe were so mingled that in the darkness it was difficult to tell one from the other, Horsemen dashed right through the camp-fire,. scattering blazing brands in every direction. Whoops and shouts and screanis and yells went up on every side. The Ford Brothers were together. ** Bob!” whispered Charley. ** Well, Charley?” “ Let’s not get separated.” “* No; stand ther.” Bullets and buckshot whistled like hail. A horse was Killed, and fell almost on Bob Ford. He got out of the way as soon as he could, and Charley whispered: *« Boo, let’s go.” “ Where?” “T don’t know. Anywhere; so that we can get away from here.” « Well—lead out.” “ Where are our horses?” | Suddenly a bright light flashed upon the Scene, Great streams of blazing fire shot up in the heavens and aang sky brightened every moment. 2 “The woods are on fire.” “«T know it.” Wild cries came fram the combatants. The Ford Boys had now retreated to a con- siderable distance from where the conflict be- tween the banditti and officers was raging. ° They saw a sight that was grandly sublime, and yet awful to them. : There rose up toward the skies great flashing streams of fire lapping the trees and licking the tops, shootiag many feet above the dry pines. The thunder of falling trees drowned the cries of combatants. “‘ The forest is on fire; the forest is on fire!” the stentorian voice of Timberlake coald be heard calling. Then he sounded a whistle and called off his meu Jesse James had mounted Siroc and was mak- great efforts to rally his band. _ at 3 Ford Boys had falichiod a slight eminence and looked down on the scene terrible and yet sublime. r «Do you see any one killed?” “No. : d “There are two horses lying sti!l and quiet.” <Batnomen coun | “IT guess no ove was killed.” . “It was a terrible fight for no man to be killed.” ‘- Tt was indeed.” “Yet fights are always more scary thap dan- gerous.” “ Yes.” ‘*[ wish we had our horses.” ; “The poor creatures will burn to death, I ear.” At this moment they heard the snort of horses. Jesse Jame had dismounted, and assisted by Frank, Jim Cummins was cutting loose the horses. The James Boys nearly: always had the sad- dies on their steeds. ‘What is that coming, Charley?” **Our horses.” “ Yes.” ‘“*Woa! Here, boy!” The horses, hearing familiar voices of their masters, turned about and came dashing down toward them as fast as they could come, ‘« Here, here we are,” ** Bob.” ** Well?” «“ Pye got mine.” **So have I!” ** Mount!” They leaped in the saddle. The scorching, blistering heat was every mo- ment growing nearer and more oppressive. ** Bob, we must fly for our lives!” cried Char- ey. And away they sped. Like thunder peals came the horses of their pursuers after them, But though the sheriff's posse were all about them, they made no efforts at hostility. They were a common enemy which all were compelled to flee from the forest fire, and that enemy engaged their attention. Away they sped like the wind, and gradually left the shrieking, roaring flames behind. CHAPTER VIL. IN KANSAS CITY. A WEEK later two young men mounted on horses jaded by travel, entered Kansas City. Both wore long brown hair almost to their shoulders. Que had a light beard and one only a mustache. One had but to glance at them to see by their Gress and appearance they were cowboys. They carried the lassos at their saddles, wore the provincial broad-brim and had the bold, free, careless way of men who are accustomed to a life of danger on the plains. But they were only disguised. ° Old Tom Martin kept one of those saloons or public houses on the suburls of the city. Being somewhat removed from the main part of town, it was not under the strictest police surveillance and was generally accounted as a tough place. Thither the young bloods and old bloods from Kansas City, came to ,quaff the bowl, and it was suspected behind the green screen to gamble. Some were supposed to spend little fortunes there. As the two new comers entered, several gents of the upper class of society. were in the front apartment drinking beer and whiskey. There is a judge of the supreme court and of the court of appeals, lawyers and doctors, who would not for the world have anybody know that they were there. : ‘Well, Jimmy,” cried a red-faced, hook-nosed man who was culled Judge, ‘How is Andy get- ting along?” Jimmy was a dish-faced young man, whose hair was flecked with gray. From his talk one would suppose that he was a lawyer. “First rate, judge.” The two were unmisakably politicians. **Goin’ to be re-elected?” You bet.” “Thavs right.” “« How are your chances?” ‘“‘Term’s not up for several years.” ‘“«Tknow. Let’s drink to our pospects.” “I’m goin’ to elevate your entire family to the bench.” - “Can you, Judge?” — ; «Heli, fade tutettapted Jimmy” toudhlog “ He terrup' mmy, the elbow of the judge, “‘do you see those two cowboys?” ; y = * Yes.” at aude £ A i “« Well, what are they doin’ here?” } . “ L don't know.” " hasty? “* Dangerous fellows.” me
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‘ Why?” «* Don’t like their eyes.” “Nor I; but if we can get ’em in a game we'll fleece ’em.” They called for more whisky and drank. The two cowboys who had entered glanced about the apartment, and then went to a round table, which was at a far corner of the room, and sat down. “Bob,” said one, in a whisper, ‘do you see any one you know?" “No. Do you?” “T don’t.” «Those two fellows, I believe, are lawyers.” One calls the other judge.” “The judge and the leay%. were now talking in whispers. os it's all over if they ‘suspected who we are, Bo ‘No it isn’t.” “ Why not.” “ We've got our good pistols yet, and we will make such a fight as will alarm Kansas City.” < yay you resist.” 7 “* We would be killed.” * Better be killed than taken alive.” “ Yes, you are right.” «* What will you have?” asked a waiter, com- ing around to wait upon them. *« Bring us aie said Bob, drawing a well filled eu + All right. “And lif The waiter, a grim looking fellow, gave him a glance that was withering, and said: “Young man, don’t be too impulite.” “ Mind your own business.” ** Bob, don’t,” persisted Charlie. ** Why, I would just as soon shoot the rascal’s head from his shoulders as not.” The waiter went to the bar, and whispered to the man behind it: «« There are a pair of toughs out there; give me my revoiver.” ** Here it is.” He put it in his pocket. ** Now I will make him eat his words if he don't mind his eyes.” But when he went back Jimmie and the Judge had formed the acquaintance of the new-comers. Jimmie was talking to them. **T don’t live here,” he said, his eyes flashing with the liquor he had drank. ‘I am alawyer, and my home is about one hundred and seventy- tive miles northeast of here.” **Do you practice law?” asked Bob. *Oh yes,” said Jimmie, twirling his sickly little mustache. Jimmie had a great habit of twirling his mus- tache. He was a great boaster and seemed to think that he was the greatest man ou earth. “Well air, if we ever get in trouble will you help us out?” “Oh yes.” “Thank you.” | “T never fail in any case I undertake. My brother is judge, you see.” “But he is not on " “No, not of this district, but I can help you I think any way. This man isa judge also on a — bench and he can help you. pie waiter brought the guar and Charle, «“«Two more you have, gentlemen?” “ base my frien,” said Jimmy twirling his mustache. a we aoe th “ Now my frien want to show you a little trick.” said the man called judge. i ** What is it?” asked Bob. | asses for our friends: what will Jimmie did so. {Again he wniried the cards and asked Bob: “Can you?” « Yes. iiae « Which is the ace?” : Bub turned up the ace. cor Sone Sib ne AFG Re ees will boc you ten dollary Jor, won't more ca ; ace.” ; “ Charlie let's go.” rose to their foot ‘nie Timmie’s eyes arid brightly while he twirled his THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. “Tam sure we'll take in two suckers,” he whispered to the judge. * Yes, but cowboys are dangerous, ”the judge answered. Little did they ‘dream how dangerous those men were. They went into the adjoining apartment, and accompanied by the Fords. As they entered Bob and Charlie exchanged glances. ** Bob, be careful.” « Charlie keep your hands always near your revolvers.” These were the only precautionary terms they uttered. Then they went into the apartment set apart for gambling. Here a wild scene met their view. Men of every class were in this den of iniquity. ‘* Here’s a table ,” said the judge. All four sat down. “« Now see,” he spread out the cards. so, said Bob. La a | Zo you ten you won't pick out the ace if you'll let me shuffle them three times.” “Pil do it.” He shuffled, and Bob turned up a card. ** You've lost?” “ce Yes. ”» “ Want to try it again?” “T do.” “ How much?” “Ags much as you say.” * Will you stand a hundred?” Ton “Five?” “ A taousand.” Jimmie and the judge exchanged glances. There was a ring in the young fellow’s voice, which they could not just understand. *““Do you mean it?” **Money talks!” Bob drew out a tremendous roll of bills and counted out a thousand. “ Now, sir, cover it or shut up your mouth.” “Shall I, Jimmie?” “T guess you'll have to.” *« Yes, or close up business,” said Bob, with a bold, swaggering manner. “ All right, here goes.” The garnbler laid a thousand dollars down upon the table. ‘Shuffle your cards ard be quick about it,” said Bob, in a fierce, quick tone. “Yes, sir.” “* Have you done?” oe Yes.” ** Ready?” Pa =i pick out the ace for the pile” ae ae oi” Quick as a flash Bob put both hands to his belt. With his right he drew bis ugly knife and with his left a revolver. Down cume the knife like a flash of electric vengeance into one of the cards, pinning it fast to the table, while the cocked revolver almost touched the face of the judge. ‘Turn up the other two, you scoundrel, or I i scatter your brains over the tloor!” “cried ob. The judge hesitated. “Oh, oh, oh, sir! Don’t, don't, don’t!” gasped Jimmie. “Please don’t harm me.” He made a leap to get out of the room, but Charlie Ford seized the scoundrel by the neck and kicked him soundly. ‘‘There, you rascal, see how you like that?” he cried. Jimmy howled, yelled, and begged for mercy. “Turn up the other two quick!” cried Bob, never for an instant taking his eye Off the judge. The judge saw that he meant business. It wouldn’t do to trifle with him, and quickly turned over the other two. “ Boys, are ou ng to see me ibbed?” cried che jute: ren Re * “* Boys, rea you want a few first-class funerals? If you do you can before thetr ingame ot flour- ishing his revolver before their faces. “ee Bob?” ae hate eed *Co et’s < Btap these 2 2 Several men started to thelr feet, cal “ Sit down.” 7 Bob Ford spoke in tones of thunder and his oe meant busin: Then they retired, backing out of the door. il The last SNE GE DNS MNOMRL AMMEN RTE! | eye ean) take in two. sackets.” he} _ ‘The last’ thing seen of them was the muzzies of Bob’s revolvers and Charlie’s boot as he kicked Jim Ellison, the tlubbering lounger and capper for the gambler. The gamblers were overawed for a few mo- ments, Then there went up a howl. ** Are we going to stand this?” “ Robbea!” ** Backed down!” “ Browbeaten!” ** Will we stand it?” “ No!” “ What will we do?” * Lynch ’em!” “ That’s it!” ** Follow ’em!” ** Kill ’em!” ** Call the police!” An‘ those men who had defied the police and dreaded them above all other things in the world were now ready to appeal to them for ai:d. ** Yes, let’s have the police!” Bob and Charlie went out of the house coolly and unconcernedly and were mounting. Crack! ar and keen rang out the report of the pisto The bullet whizzed close to the cheek of Bob Ford. ** Charlie!” ** Are you hit?” «No. bat I won’t stand that.” ** Mount, and let’s go.” Bob drew his pistol as be placed his foot in the stirrup. * Crack!” A second shot rang out sharp and keen, and the bullet strack the horn of his saddle. ** That will do,” he roared. Bang! bang! bang! went three shots in quick succession right into the door. And then such shrieks and yells as rose on the air at this fusillade was never before heard by human ears. Jim Ellison was struck by a spliuter cut by a bullet from the door, and luy on the floor bawl- ing murder and declaring that he was killed. * Where are you goiug, Bob,” Charlie asked. *« To town.’ ** Won’t it be dangerous?” +* Safer than here.” On their way they met two mounted police, who asked: ** Where are you from?” ** The country.” « Did you hear of a shooting scrape?” «« We passed a house where there seemed to be a fight.” ** Where?” “« Down by those green trees.” ‘«1v’s those gamblers at it again, Bill. have to pull the entire honse.” *« Yes.” The police went on at a thundering gallop, and the Ford Boys, making the best of their way to the Grand Missouri Hotel, sent their horses to a livery barn and went to their room. ‘* Well, Bob!” ** Well, Charlie?” ** Adventures thicken.” “ Yes, but so far we are ahead. Didn't I earn that thousand dollars easily?” “Jen “*T'll have more of that if they ever try to play me for a sucker again.” ore” * Ha, ha—if they think they can take us in at such a game they are mistaken.” * Right you are.” Then they rang the bell for a porter. “ What will you have?” he asked. ig tn Sa us our dinners.” o . He brought their dinners, and while wey were eatin; there came a rap at the door. is there?” asked Bob. «Gentleman to see you,” answered the por. “What does he want?” “ You!” answered a deep-toned voice, the door was flung open, and before them stood half a dozen armed cong ge ie We'll CHAPTER VIL. ROBBING A TRAIN. Beseads moment par te Fr fn Bhan taken aback, and completely understruc by the Hold!” Revoling a revolver a the heart of the sergeant of WaT 1G: ONE * “Surrender!” cried the officer, = «*What do you want with me” — Re —_—" |
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12 THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. *» We have warrants for your arrest.” **On what charge?” ‘“Woundisg David Floyd.” ** When?” ‘“* To-day.” ‘* Where?” ** At the Green Trees.” ‘Well, gentlemen, you are mistaken.” ‘* We are not.” * You are.” ‘You are the men we want.” ‘* We are not,” Bob answered. ‘*Come along, anyway.” While Bob had been holding this conversation Charlie’s quick eyes discovered a door at their rear. He poured some powder on the carpet, and putting the muzzle of a pistoi to it, fired. The report was accompanied with a tremen- dous puff, and the room was filled with smoke. Bob, who was aware that his brother was up to some sort of a strategy, threw himself on the floor and fired three shots in the direction of the officers’ feet. One bullet struck off a policeman’s toe. And others were touched, so there was a gen- eral scampering. ** Bob, Bob!” cried Caariie, “‘ come here.” In a moment Bob was at Charlie’s side. They sprang through tle door, and in a mo- ment were in a sort of closet. It was a-long, narrow closet, and at the far end was another door opening into another room. From this room they made an exit into a long corridor, ‘*Now, Bob,” whispered Charlie, ‘‘ what are ve to do?” *“T don’t know.” ‘ Just around the corner are the police.” At this moment a tall, powerful man was seen ‘oming toward them, : “This way!” he whispered, **Who are you?” asked Bob. ‘Come, and ask no questions.” ** Charlie!” ** What?” “Tvs Jesse James.” ag Follow then.” They followed him, and were soon at a stair- way. Down this they flew. It was now growing dark, and the gas had been lighted. ‘When they gaiued the lower hall, the Ford Boys were astonished, through an open door, to gee their horses, already saddled and bridied, awaiting them. ‘Who did this——” began Bob. ‘Hush, no more!” interrupted Jesse James. . Then they went to the horses, vaulted in the saddles, and went galloping away as rapidly as they could down the strect. Jesse had left Frank to hold the horses, while he went up into the hotel to bring down the Ford Boys. : At the next corner they were joined by Jim Cummins ard Dick Little. The cavalcade galloped out of Kansas City "n- harmed. : When Bob and Charlie sought to ascertain how Jesse James came to be there just in the nick of time and save them in such a remarkable Manner, he avoided their questions. The chief of the greatest banditti ever known in the world was a map who usually did his work in secret. He seldom made known to any one whut his intentions were, and had a way of ap- pearing at the strangest, oddest times imagin- able. They escaped from Kansas City unharmed, and the banditti resumed their ravages on society. The reader will remember that at the last m of the James Boys it was resolved to rob the Chicago and Alton train. The time agreed upon had to be postponed as they had met with some reverses since the attack. A new time had been set, and the night for the job came. Jesse James and Bob Ford d them- selves, and boarded the train twenty-five miles above the place at which the robbery was to be “« Bob, how are nerves?” Jesse asked as rh a “ Yes.” **Go through from car to car until you reach the end of the baggage car.” “ Yes.” ‘«Then open the door and leap on the tender.” ‘* Yes.” _ ‘*From there you must cross over and cover the fireman and engineer with your revolver.” ** You have given mea pretty dangerous task.” “ But the reward.” “Ts it big?” * A hundred thousand,” “You know it?” “Tam counting on what is in the express alone.” * Do you know?” a0.” “How?” ‘* Don’t ask me as to my source of information. That is my secret,” ‘* Well, I will do the best Ican the work al- lotted to me.” «Jehu, what a pretty girl!” ‘« Where?” asked Bob. ‘Three seats in front on the left.” Bob cast his eyes in that direction and started to his feet. ** Sit down.” ‘I know her,” Bob gasped, almost breathless. ‘Then say nothing to any one about it.” “Why?” ‘ * Don’t let her know you.” ** But I must speak to her.” * No, you won't.” “ Why?” ‘** Would you give all our plans away?” “ No. ” i «Then sit still.” ** But I can trust her.” * Trust no one.” Then he pulled Bob down at his side and Bob became silent and morose. . After ¢ few moments silence Jesse James, in an undertone yet evincing great interest, asked: * Do you know her?” Pao,” ‘* Who is she?” “Mollie Hayes.” * Mollie Hayes?” ** Yes,” ** Where does she live?” ‘*In Clay County.” “ Ts she a farmer’s girl.” & Yea,” ** And was your neighbor?” ** She was.” ‘* Have you ever seen her since.” ** Since I became one of you?” “«That’s what 1 mean.” ** Once.” “ When?’ ** Not long ago.” “ How long ago?” “ Three weeks.” Then Bob remembered that he had kept the meeting between him and Mollie a secret. “© Where was it?” “* At her home, but why do you ask so many questions about it, captain?” “* Answer, and never mind my motives.” ‘* Well, what more do you want?” ‘* Was it on the evening we were attacked?” és Yous’ «Did she see you?” * Yes,” “Talk with you?” oe Yes.” ** And you never told me?” No.” < “ Why?” “ Because you would be angry and put a wrong construction on it.” “ Would I?” “ Yes.” “Well, you have violated one of our rules. That girl, no doubt, was the cause of the attack on us. “Captain, you are mistaken. But for her it would have been made sooner. She told himnl had gone in another direction and sent bim on another trail. Jesse was a long time silent feasting his eyes on the beauty of the girl. Then he turned to Bob and said: “ Bob.” “Yes, sir.” ‘Is she a flame “* A sweetheart.” “* Of course it means the same thing.” “ Yes.” “T ne t ee Then he added in a lower tone, but not so low that Bob did not hear him: _ . She is a wonderfully pretty girl.’ Bob grew uneasy. Jesse seemed to become infatuated, and that desperate man’s admiration was dangerous. The train now ran into a station, and halted to let off some passengers. As soon as it started again Bob aeked: «* Jesse, how far is it?” ‘* There ts one more station, then we leave that, and three miles further is a water tank. We will stop at the water tank, and as soon a- we pull out from the tank and get under way, | will give you word to go forward.” «You will have just five minutes then to stop the engineer. How are your nerves?” ‘* Steady.” , “That's good.” But Bob Ford was a little nervous, He glanced at Mollie, sweet, innocent as he had once been, and beaved a sigh for the time when he was as innocent as she. But vain re- grets were banished, and he made his mind up to now be a desperado. The station was reached. ‘“Now, Bob, be steady.” ‘Yes, sir.” The station was passed. whistled for the water tank. Jesse consulted his watch. It was a few minutes after midnight. *«Juet the time,” he said. They slowed up to the water-tank and took on water. Again they pulled out, slowly at first. Bob's heart was beating like a trip-hammer. Jesse said, in a cool, determined voice: “Let her go!” Bob rose and hurried through car after car. Through the smoker, the mail coach and the baggage and express. . Where are ycu going?” demanded the express agent. Bob made no answer. On he went. He leaped on the tender from a door which opened toward it, forJesse had no- ticed that every car, even the baggage and ex press cars, had doors in the ends of them. When he reached the tender he climbed over the coal and leveling his revolver at the engineer and fireman, cried: *Hold! Stop her!” «« What?” roared the engineer. ** Stop her, or you are a dead man!” The frightened engineer quickly reversed his engine. And as the car stopped dark forms came from the woods, leaped aboard and began robbing the passengers, Shots were fired to intimidate’ passengers. But the flring was unnecessary, for no resistance was made, The great safe in the express was opened and all the money taken from it, then the bandits mounted their horses and bade all a good night and disappeared. Then the train CHAPTER IX. AT ST. LOUIS. ‘* WHERE will you?” ‘© This way to the omnibus to all parts o’ the city.” * Apples, oranges!” ‘«* Mornin’ paper, St. Louis ‘Republic,’ ‘ Evenin’ Star,’ ‘Sayin’s.’” A perfect hubbub or babel of confused voices reigned about two young men who had just alight- ed from the incoming train, , «* Bob——” ‘« Where will we go, Charley?” ‘That was what I was going to ask.” ** Let’s go to the Silver Moon.” “Or Moiser,” ‘Its all the same.” ** Do you know the way?” es.” te Y * of ss ge, mister—carriage, carriage?” cried &@ coachman and hackman anxious to pick up a few pennies, ts ast pc bath, indignantly. ‘* Mister—-mister—I say lemme carry your valise.” 2 : “IT can carry it.” “ Carry it for a quarter.” ‘*T can take it.” Then the two young men turned to the left, passed around the grea: building in which is the depot dining hall, and ascending the stairway on te rem pasate a car, ‘* What, Charley?” Bob asked as they were go- toward Pine street, ; ; ‘Re. yem suppose they wil recognize us?” “* Police.” a
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 13 * No—why?” «I don’t know. I feel kind a squeamish every time I see a policeman.” “Do you? Well, you needn’t.” « Why?” ‘sNone of them ever saw you before.” «Yes, but all have read of —” , Oh, hush!” Tie car in which the Ford Boys were riding lad no other occupant. They were sitting in a corner. The doors were closed, and neither the driver on the front plat- form, nor the conductor on the rear, could hear what they said. * Well, Bob, this isa bold move,” said Charley Ford. « Not very.” “Coming right to St. Louis so soon after the robbery.” Bob laughed. Bob was always the most reckless and daring _ of the two. “Jesse will join us soon, and then we will have no trouble,” said Bob. ‘* Paper, mister—Republic—buy a Republic— best paper ever printed.” «Here, how much is it?” Bob Ford asked. “Er nickel. Take Star Sayings an’ Post Dis. patch too?” “ Yes.” « Lem me see,” said the boy, counting on his fingers. “Globe, one nickle; Post Despateh, two nickles; Star Sayin’s, two pennies — twelve cents.” « Well, I can’t make the change. There isa quarter. You may give me back the change next time you see me.” The newsboy fixed bis pleased eyes on him in amazement. i ‘Say, mister, yer must be er little off some way. ain’t ye?” “No,” answered Bob. ; «* Wot yer givin’ me seventeen cents fur?” « Because I’ve got plenty of money and want to. Now get out of this car or I will give you a dollar.” ere The boy started, stared suspiciously at the strangers, and hur-iedly left the car. It was really difficult to tell whether he was elated or not at the prospect of having so much money. ** Bob, don’t be too lavish.” “Why?” laughed Bob. ‘It is come easy go easy with us.” “*Yes—but if you go to spending too much money it may excite attention.” ‘The car came to Pine street and Twelfth, and turning down the former street, between Seventh and Eighth streets, came to a halt in front of the Silver Moon restaurant and hotel. Bob and Charley Ford alighted. Ag they entered the hotel they saw a group of men in the lobby all talking earnestly. “It’s an outrage on society, Governor,” said one. : “T admit it and I shall do my best to put it down,” said a large, smooth-shaved man. “Governor Crittenden, when did you leave Jefferson City?” “This morning.” Bob Ford turned about and fixed his eyes on Governor Crittenden, who was then the Gover- hor os —— : “ he ispered & What?” ¥ “ Wait a moment.” Then as Bob’s eyes roamed over the governor he reflected: ; «That man is the Governor of the State. He has come to inquire into the affair of the rob- What was to be done. Bob determined to hear what was said. “Charley, go and register for us.” “ Yes.” - «Take our bag to our rooms.” — - « And then what : : «Come back here!” ; «What are you going to do meanwhile, Bob?’ “Tam Boing to stay here and listen to what they say. : “Are yout” Well 1 will go.” “a went wo the The uproar and shouts and yells were heard for blocks around. The policeman sprang his rattle and hurried tothe scene, and ere Bob and Charley Ford couid comprehend what was about to occur to them, each was seized by the strong armed of- ficer, and a voice hissed in their ears: ** Out for a lark, are ye, my youngsters? Well, we'll take care 0’ ye. You'll go to the lock up, and pay a fine, or pound stone for this.” CHAPTER X. OVER THE BIG BRIDGE. Tue Ford Boys were stunned by their sudden ture. at should they do? If they were taken to prison, no doubt they would be discovered. The large quantity of money they had about them might attract attention. The policemen clung to them with wonderful tenacity which forbade their making atiy effort at ca pe. Other policemen were hurrying forward and already quite a posse had gathered about. “* What's the row here, officer Holland?” asked a sergeant of police, harrying forward at the head of a dozen men. “ Some young bloods were on a racket,” said the officer. “« Were they?” “ Yes.” * And you hauled them in?” « Yes, we got five of them. : « We were doing no wrong,”.said Bob Ford. «© You wasn't, warn’t ye?” asked a policeman. a No.” *« Didn't I see ye fight?” *« Yes—but in defense.” ** Nonsense.” «“ Tr’s true, nt.” “ Ha, ha, I would like to see you make Ser- geant Prince believe anything when we say it isn’t so.” * Release us, please.” ** No, we don’t please to do 80.” ** You don’t?” Bob’s eyes flashed dangerously. ‘© We don’t.” He felt his indignation rising within him to ‘such an extent that he could scarce restrain anes ag from making a desperate effort for iberty. These wore 0 SHaea of deadly revolvers in his belt, and he would have only to draw them and them. — Others were coming, and a whistle or the rattle of a club would call a hundred. | * It’s no use,” th Bob; “ we w only be shot down, and would end it.”
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. But to be taken to the station and examined would certainly be equally perilous. He and Charlie stocd side by side. They were surrounded by police, and there was such a con- stant jabbering and hubbab going on all around them that they could not hear what the boys Said to each other. The three drunken, roystering boatmen who had been capt were making the night hideous with their yells ard protestations of in- nocence. “ Charley!” Bob whispered. He succeeded in arresting his brother’s atten- tion without the police knowing it. ** What, Bob?” ‘* What had we better do?” ** Submit.” «It’s dangerous.” ‘« What else can we do?” ** Resist.” “* That's death.” «Better death than capture if——” “« Well, there's a hope,” interrapted Charley. A score of policemen were on han. by this time. The drunken, boisterous fellows were led away hooting, yelling and singing toward the station, Only the Ford Brothers remained. “Bob!” whispered Charley. “ What?” ** Let’s try to buy off.” “*That’s it,” thought Bob. Then he plucked the policeman nearest him aside and said: «Can I speak with you?” “* Certainly.” «* Now, sir, we are not bad fellows.” “« Oh, they all say that.” ‘*We are not very bad. We were never ar- rested before in our lives.” ** That's the old, old story.” ** But Lam telling the truth.” “ Same old gag.” * Look at-us and you will see at a glance that we are not city men.” ** No, I know that.” ** We are not tuughs.” ‘Ha, ha, ha!” “« Now we are jast in the city for the first time in our lives, and it would break the hearts of our parents to know that we had been locked ** Would it?” “ Yes.” ‘Why didn’t you think of that before you started out to paint the town vermilion?” «Now, officer, I am willing to do the fair thing with you if you will let me.” «« What is it?” ** What do you mean” ** How much?” “ How much what?” ** Money.” ‘« Do you mean to bribe me?” cried the officer, indignantly. “ If that is your little game, I just want to tell you it can’t be done.” ** Oh, no, no, no.” : “ What do you mean, then?” ‘I merely wanted to put up ten or twenty dollars with you for our appearance at court to- morrow.” -* That’s equivalent to a bribe.” “No, sir, I would come.” * You'll come now.” . Bob Ford found that all efforts to get away aa unavailing, and their situation was becom- ng ae He was taken back to his brother Charley and both were told that they would have to go to prison. “Won't it work, Bob,” Charley asked in a whisper. “ No.” ** What’ll we do now?” ** Submit.” ** Couldn't resist?” “No, Ls too late now.” Then the policemen came to them and the ser- i “ Yes.” ‘¢« Why—on what business?” Then one of the new comers whispered a few words to the officer. “Ts that so?” “oe ” “ Well, will you two take them and we'll go back and attend to that?” ‘* Have you ironed them?” ** Yes—buth have. been handcuffed together and though they were armed, neither could use & weapon. ‘*Then we can take them safely,” said one of the new policeman. “Oh, yes, they are not dangerous.” * Little did the officers dream who they were dealing with. Had they known that those two men were members of the James Boys’ band, they would not have said they were not danger- ous. The officers who had the Ford Boys in charge turned them over to the new comers and started down the street, when one of the new comers, a large, broad shouldered man, whose form was incased in a well fitting blue coat and who wore a policeman’s helmet on his head, called to them: ** Hold a moment!” “« Well, what now?” « Let us have the key?” ‘* What key?” “‘To the handcufis.” **Certainly. You will want to take them off.” Then he handed overthe keys and the Ford Boys in charge of the. new guards and started away. They knew not whither they were going, and baving litte hope now of escape, their hearts sunk within them. Their new guards turned into a dark alley and followed it for some time until they suddenly gp ae Ail was now utter darkness. “This way, be careful, Bob.” said one of the policeman in a whisper. **Bob—what do you know——” * Hush,” said the officer in a whisper. ‘‘ It you have any regard for your safety, you will keep uiet. Then to his utter amazement the officer said: «Let me unlock you and you can go easier.” —- the key. he removed the handcuffs and au : ** Now come down in this basement bvilding.” They followed him. There was something in the voice of the man which was strangely familiar to the Ford Boys. They were conducted down a steep flight of nerrow steps. through a dark corridor and found themselves in a small room. One of the officers turned up the gas which was burning dimly and the room was lighted. “ Sit down, Bob, sit down, Charley,” said the officer. They did so. The officer laid aside his helmet, his wig and false whiskers and before them stood Jesse James. ‘Jesse James?” cried Bob and Charley in a breath starting to their feet. ‘«S—h! keep quiet,” said Jesse. ‘You must ever be cool. Now how did you get in that scrape? Tell me the truth, for I will be sure to learn it. sooner or later.” “«We were simply going down the street when we were attacked by a gang of dranken sailors,” said Bob. ‘That is all we know.” ‘* Well, young men, you must learn a lesson by this.” of Why are you here, Jesse, and how did you come to be on the police force, and who—why this other man is Frank James!” “ Yes.” ** Weill, I am amazed.” “Tt would all be simple enough if you could understand it, Bob, but at present we will not explain. Now you two must leave St. Louis for a day or two.” * Are you :wo going to leave also?” “No; not for a few days, We’ve got some work to do,” : ‘* Where must we go®” asked Bob. ** Across the big bridge.” **Tnto Illinois?” “ Yes.” ** When” “ At once.” “This mght?” _** This hour.” “Ti get it.” “Can you?” ae Yes.” ‘But won’t we be in great danger of being discovered?” ** No.” Then from inside pockets of their coats the psuedo police took smal] packages, which proved on examination to contain each a wig and pair of gray whiskers. Both were disguised in a few moments, so that they conld. not have been knowa by their own grandmother, ‘* Now go.” So the Ford Boys issued forth, went to Wash- ington avenne and, boarding a street car, crossed the great bridge over into Jilinois. CHAPTER XI. BACK TO MISSOURI. WHEN the street car reached East St. Louis and stopped there, the Fcrd Boys got out of it and then Bob said: ** Well, Charley, what will we do now?” “ The night is more than half spent, Bob.” “You” “«T am sleepy.” **Soam I.” *« Let’s go the hotel.” “ All right.” ** Come on.” They went a short distance when they heard a darky singing : ‘*We’s gwine to de shuckin’ 0’ de corn, Yes, we’s a gwine to de shuckin’ o’ de corn—” ** Hello, Sambo!” called Bob. *““T ain’t Sambo.” ‘* Who are you?” “Pompey.” ** Well, Pompey, where is the nearest tavern?” “D’yer mean hotel, boss?” * Yes.” **Golly, dat’s mine zactly.” ** Are you a runner for a hotel?” “Bet liz. Come right erlong.” ** How far is it?” *“Tain't fur. Be dar soon.” ‘* Well, lead on.” **Come on.” The negro led them down a narrow, dirty street and brought up at a great, gloomy, for- saken-looking store-house, It stood in the worst part of town. ** Heah you iz, boss.” . They entered the hotel by a great, old-fashion- ed, heavy oaken door, which was open. Inside in the far distance, lighted by a candle which burned low in its socket, was a clerk’s desk, and behind it a shock-headed fellow of twenty-five asleep. “Say, Jimmy, Jimmy, wake up, won’t yer?” ‘*No, I won’t!” “Golly, yer will.” ‘Go away, an’ let me alone, ur I'll bust yer crust!” growled the sleepy clerk, who. sitting ic a chair, leaned over on the desk and slept. **No, ye won't, Jimmy.” “Go away.” ‘* Heah’s two gemmans come to stay all night, an’ dey want a bed, Jimmy.” “Where are they?” asked Jimmy, raising a bloated, sleepy-looking face, and glaring at Bob and Charlie. “« Here we are,” said Bob. *¢ What d'yer want?” ** A bed.” “Fur two?” "Yes." ‘ Hain’t got but one bed. Here, Pomp, take *em ter Number 69.” He handed the negro a key, and soon was snoring over his desk. **Come on, boss,” said Pomp, as with the key he hurried up an old rickety stairway which was utterly barren of carpet or any kind of covering. They were ushered into a strange dark dismal looking apartment. The walls -were blackened. The paper in many places had been pulled off. There was an old musty carpet on the oor, and the furniture was all old and dilapidated. A great broad fireplace was in the room with a wide old fashioned chimney. It was evident that the fireplace had not been used for a long time. For a moment Bob gazed at their surround. ings, and then dismissed the negro. ** We will now go to bed.” he said to Chariev. te ae not a very inviting bed, Bob.” oe oOo, + eee pee you notice that nigger.” © Yeas, “ Did you ever see such a face?” “« | never saw a more villainous face.” .
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“* He is a thief.” ** A thug.” ** One would bardly care to sleep here.” ‘* We can sleep one al a time.” Bob yawned. Charley yawned. + Let’s zo to bed.” « Allright,” here we go.” Both went to bed. There was but one bed, I! was wide and hard, evidently the mattress was boards. ‘* Bob do you want to sleep in front?” «* Yes.” “Very well—put your pistols under your head.” “«T will.” “ When both were in bed, Bob remarked: _ “It’s not a very good bed, Charley, but it is much etter than the jail.” ‘* Yes—Bob.” r “ What?” «Is the door locked?” 7 No.” “ Get up and lock it.” Bob, who was very sleepy, climbed cut of the bed and went to the door. « There is no key to il, Charley.” ‘« Isn’t there?” ** No.” ‘« Look outside.” « T have.” « Put a chair under the knob and press it closed.” Bob did so. * There, no one could get in without us know- ing it,” said Bob. Tie went back to the bed and climbed in. «* Now, Charley, we must only one sleep at a time.” « Thav’s best.” * Who will sleep first?” « T don’t Care.” “You may, Charley.” “ Allright. How long shall I sleep?” « Until daylight.” “ And you?” “«T will sleep until noon.” This matter being settled Charley soon fell asleep. Bob Ford left the candle nena in the room, and as he lay there gazing into the great tire- place and dark chimney he could not repress some strange feelings of awe which came over him. There was something so strange, we might al- most say wonderful, in the fire-place. But anon Bob's eyes grew heavy, and in spite of himself they closed. Two or three times he opened them and gazed at the chimney. But there was nothing about the broad, old black fire-place that was actually suspicious, save its quaint and curious make. Its vast width and depth. His eyes again closed, and despite his resolu- tion to keep awake he was almost asleep when be woke with a start. What was it? Could it be possible that he saw a man’s head in the tire-place. Was that a head or was he dreaming? The head, if he saw one, was hanging down nen the chimney and peeping at him under the arc’ . ‘ But on opening his eyes wide and starting up in bed, Bob saw nothing but the vast black space in the chimney. “Tt was only a dream!” he thought. “What's the matter Bob!” asked Charley, who was awakened by Bob’s sudden start. “«T was dreaming, Charley, that was all.” “Dreaming. Have you been asleep?” “T guess 1 was.” > «On guard?” “VT not do it again. Go to sleep, Charley.” In a few minutes Charley again snored. Bob Ford was not quite certain that he slept when he saw the in the chimney. «| half believe it was real,” he said. - Then he quietiy drew a pistol from under his head, and with one eye closed, watched the lace. _ eee below the great arch he saw something ering itself. > a was a woolly head, coming down head first. Then a pair of baleful black eyes, “ Golly. dey me.” ; It was Pomp who was letting himself down . THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. drop ’em in de chimney, an’ nobody won’t nebber krow it. Jimmy war too drunk to remember dat dey ebber come here at all.” For some cause, the head, shoulders and arms of the negro were again drawn up into the chim- vey out of sight of Bob Ford. The plan of the negro was now quite evident. It was his intention to kill the white men, rob them, and drop their bodies in that old chimney, which yawned like an enormous cavern of death tv receive them. Their bodies might lie there ages before taey would be discovered. It puzzled Bob a little at first to know how their would-be assassin got in the chimney, but when te remembered that an old fashioned crane hung way up io its capacious throat and reflected that by aid of a rope an active negro could go up or down in the chimney with head up or down at will, und peek in at every room to which a fire-place had been made. Bob quietly cocked his revolver and laid it beside his pillow, and pulled the cover up over it so that only the tip of the muzzle protraded. He left an open space along the barrel for him to sight it, and with his finger on the trigger waited for the appearance again of the negro, He had not long to wait. Scarce had be got himself in good position when the woolly head again co The wicked eyes now gleamed like living coals of fire, and the grinning teeth had something about them that was hideous. Bob waited until the head was down and the arm holding the knife. He could see the rope with which Pomp was lowering himself. Ph hae had begun andl himself hs a chimney for the purpose o ng at - tended victim, when—— : ; Tied cit Gultming tan shelrepesd and deafening the . The shot awoke Cnariey. There came neither groan nor cry from Pom At the crack of the pistol he let go of his hold on the rope and plunged head first down into the chimney. The knife which he carried in his hand, no doubt with such deadly intent, slipped from his grasp and fell with a jingling sound on the hearth within the room, while Pomp disappeared Gown the main flue of the chimney. «* Bob—Bob! what is it?’ asked Charley, start- ing v. with his revolver. “« No danger now, Charley.” “« What was it?” “A nigger.” “Did you shoot him?” “Don't know, bat think I did.” _ leaped to his feet and ran to the fire- place. He stood up in it and peeped over the back jamb down into the great dark flae, but all was silent as tae grave. Charley, who was still mystified, demanded to know what it all meant. Bob coolly picked up the knife which Pomp had dropped, and holding it up, said: This 1s a dangerous looking weapon.” as ay, it don't belong to either one of us.” “No. y “Charley?” “ Well” “ Get up and dress.” ‘* Where are you going?” ‘Back to Missouri. We can’t leave Illinois oy. too soon.” be Ford Boys rapidly dressed and burried from the house. The clerk was still sleeping over the desk, so without waiting for any such trifling prelimin- aries a8 paying bills they hurried from the house. Day had begun to dawn. They went down to the river and found a fisherman getting out his ‘*How much will you charge to cross S‘elow the city?” aaa Bob. agit “Five dollars.” “Get in, Charley, and we'll go.” They took theie places in the boat and were rowed over into Missouri, landing below Canan- delet, and started out in the country. Once more they were in Missouri. CHAPTER XIL THE RROTHERS MAKE A STAND. THREE days later two yourg men mounted on throughbred horses were along a ee fe 15 something alarmingly uncommon abont this man. He was on foot, standing in the middle of the road and held a double-barreled shot-gun to his shoulder. ** Halt!” he cried. The two young hursemen came to a halt. There could be no question but that he meant the command for them, for the double-barreled gun was poiuted at them. They were near enough to see that it was ; cocked and that he had both fingers on the * triggers. ** What do you mean?” asked Bob Ford, for 7 two young men on horseback were the Ford ys. ‘* Surrender!” cried the man with the shot- gun. ”"« Surrender?” “ Yes.” “Do you mean that both of us shall sur- render?” asked Bob, whose horse kept prancing about, and Bob’s right hand at the same time fell on the butt of a revolver. «I think I do.” *« Who shall we surrender to?” “* The sheriff o’ this county.” “ Are you the sheriff?” *¢ No—I am his deputy.” Never was there a more stopid-looking pair than Bob and Charlie Ford at this mome: t. They seemed not to comprehend what the man said, “What have you got to do with us?” Bob asked, * Arrest you.” ** Arrest ime?” “ Yes.” ** What for?” “ Stealin’.” **What have I stole?” “The horse you ride.” “You are mistaken, man. I never saw you before.” « And I never saw you before.” . ** Then I would like to know how you know I stole this horse?” “That horse belonged to Arthur Bellzer.” “ You are mistaken.” “Tam not.” “Tt was another like him.” ‘It was not. Stand where you are and I wil} call the sherifi, who will show you his warrant for arresting you.” Bat the Ford Boys had no notion of waiting for the sheriff. Crack! Crack! Just as the deputy put his whistle to his lips to call the sheriff both Bol) and Charley fired. One of the bullets strack the barrel of the gun and though the bullet did not even wound the deputy, it stunned him a little and causea him to stagger. “Down on him, Charley!” whispered Bob. Before the smoke had cleared away from their pistols, and before the echoes of the shots had ceased to reverberate among the hills, Charle and Bob Ford clapped spurs to their steeds an dashed like thunderbolts on the confused, stunned deputy. “Down vou gol” yelled Bob, as his flying horse struck the deputy and sent him head over heels at the roadside. “* Hark, away!” ** Come down to it, Ned.” Be op horses sped like thunderbolts along the road. ~ Every since they had stolen the horses the night before from a hitch-rack at a country church they had been closely pursued, note the only time they had been run so c Now they found themselves so completely hemmed in that they were forced to break through. for the sherifi’s deputies had headed them off. * Slacken speed, Bob,” said Charley. «* We are not out of danger yet, Charley.” ““T know it” : « Then why slacken speed?” ** So as not to run our horses down.” * All right.” * Did wz brenk that deputy'’s neck?” “ T think not.” « Tt was a close shave for us.” “Tt was.” ; ** Once or twice I almost felt his buckshot in my back.” ** He didn’t call the sheriff.” “ No, bat we did.” “ How?!” “Our shots.” “* Yes—of course those shots were heard and bs ied
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16 THE FORD BOYS' VENGEANCE. the sheriff and his deputies wiil soon be hard on our heels.” The Ford Boys were now traveling ina por- tion of the country that was devoid of railroads and telegraphs. There were no means whereby they could head off the fugitives, and Bob and Charley had test- ed their horses enough to know that they could travel as far in a day as any horses, and that for speed and endurance they perliaps had no superior. They traveled on until noon, when they halted at a house. ‘*Can you give us some dinner at once, ard feed our horses?” Bob asked. ‘* Yes,” said the farmer. ** All right; be quick.” ‘* Dinner is waitin’.” ** Well, [ think so ter look at yer horses. All drippin’ wet with sweat.” “ Hello, pop,” cried one of the girls. ‘Here came a lot o’ men.” “ Bob?” ** Charley!” ** To horse.” There was a clatter of hoofs, The Ford Boys leaped to their horses. A “Tn the house, if you value your lives,” cried ob. Bang! Bang! Bang! It seemed as if the air was full of buckshot. The shot rattled against the fence, cut the leaves from the cherry trees, and whizzed thick as hail about the Ford Boys. The Ford Boys were leaving their foes far be- hind, when suddenly, as they galloped over a hili, they were greeted by a shout and saw a score of pursuers before them. ‘* We are headed off!” cried Charley. ‘* Surrounded!” ** What can we do?” ‘¢ Make a stand.” ‘©All right. We will die right here. good spot as any to die in.” ae they dismounted to make one last grand stand. It is as CHAPTER XIII. THE RIDGE HILL TRAGEDY. Ir often happers that deliverance comes just at the last moment. > Ss SEE NRO mS SS At this moment wild yells arose on the air behind the two horsemen, who, dust-covered and haggard from their long flight, were galloping up a dusty road. “ Bring it here.” “«In the yard?” 7 «« Yes; spread a table under this tree.” «* And your horses?” «* Feed ’em.” «* Put ’em in the barn?” “ No.” ** Where?” + There is a bough by the gate.” *« Feed ‘em there?” “ Yes,” The Ford Boys dismounted and took the bits from the horses’ mouths, but did not remove the saddles. There was some water in a trough, and they let the horses drink. Two red-headed yirls brought out a tatle and placed it under a locust tree and spread a cloth. In five minutes the Ford Boys were eating their dinners, and their horses were eating their oats. “Where be you men goin’?” asked the farmer suspiciously. “To Clay county.” «Clay county?” a Yes.” “Rid hard, I guess.” “Rather,” answered. *¢ Are you hit, Beb?” “‘No—are you, Charley?” ‘*No.” **]t’s a wonder.” “Hurry. Harry!” . ‘ “1 can’t get this confounded bit in his mouth.” “Why?” “Tt has stuck.” é But after another trial Bob got the bit in his borse’s mouth. In the meanwile, Bob had brought his horse around so as to make a breast- work of him, and had opened fire on the enemy who were approaching up the hill. ** Are you all right now, Bob?” ia Yes.” “Mount.” Bob vaulted into the saddie. “* Hark, away.” Down the road they thundered. ‘There they go—there they go!” roared a cho- rus of voices in their rear. Then the thunder of hoofs in pursuit sounded ae the crack of doom. The very earth trem- bled. “* We'll have ‘em—we’ll have ’em!” cried the sheriff. who led the pursuit. “What do they mean?” Bob asked. ** T don’t know,” said Chariey. But they soon were to know. **Do you hear that, Jesse?” *¢ Yes,” It was true in this case. The Ford Boys had just abandoned all hope, and with grim determination had prepared to sell their lives as dearly as possible, when from tod hills above them there came a tremendous yell. It was the old guerrilla war whoop which so often startled the night air during the war. It was a screech more terrible than any In- dian ever gave utterance to, “Look. Bob.” ‘* See, Charley?” “T's Jess.” *« And Frank.” ** Jim Cummins and all the band.” ‘* We are rescued.” * Hurrah, hurrah!” ‘* See, they scatter the posse right and left.” So they did. ; With rein in their teeth and a pistol in each hand the banditti pursued the deputies, pouring in a volley of pistol shots which would remind an old soldier of a line of battle. ** Weil, boys, had a close call, didn’t you?” asked Jesse James, as be galioped up to where Bob and Charley Ford were, ** Rather,” Bob answered. ‘‘What were you going todo if we hadn't come?”
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 1? 'wWU,TUT 0] 2 iii iii iii iii is... ee “* Fight.” “And surrender?” ‘No, fight and die.” “That’s right, Bob,” cried Jesse, taking Bob's hand. ‘Now you talk as if you were really made of tke right stuff.” “* We are.” *T am glad to have such men.” ““What’s the use of surrendering, James? To surrender means death.” -* Of course it does,” ‘‘ And if 1am going to die I prefer the bullet to the rope.” This was a doctrine which Jesse James took great care to inculcate in his men. ‘* Better die fighting like men than be hung up like dogs,” was his motto, which he never Jesse *¢ Away from here. The sheriff will raise the militia, I suspect, and make it rather Warm in this part of the country.” “Yes.” ** Come on.” The cavalcade wheeled their horses about and galloped down the road. Then they traveled ail day and until late in the night without any incident worthy of men- tion. When night came Jesse halted his band in the wood and held a few moments’ consultation. ‘*Say, boys, what shall we do?” he asked. ‘Shall we spend the night in the woods or go to a house?” “Dare we go to a house?” asked Bob. “oe Yes.” lost an opportunity to impress on their minds. | ‘* What house?” lal We \ iia a esi Then it seemed as if a whole kennel of the noisy brutes had suddenly been turned loose and came running yelping and howling. Jesse, dismounting, said: ‘* George must sleep sound if these creatures won’t wake him.” ‘Where are you going, Jess?” Frank asked. ** To the house.” ‘* Have a care.” ‘«There is no danger.” “There may be. You take too many risks.” ** You are growing to be a coward, Frank.” “No, Iam not.” ‘“* Yes, Then why are you so cautions?” “Prudence 18 not cowardice,” Frank re- sponded. **T am sick of hearing that forever.” ‘* Well, be prudent.” BH UM es SS i ] i NUTT! UAL ** Jesse James, you are my prisoner.” ‘*Carl Greene!” ‘‘Surrender.” ‘* Crack!” Jesse placed a tube to his lips and sounded a last «That will call in the stragglers from the pur- suit.” © Will they kill any of them?” Charlie Ford ked. e556 Wa, they may,” Jesse answered, with a gh. Font it better not to shed blood if it can be helped?” “Oh, yes.” a * Well, it’s not necessary now. «The boys have a big mad on, and if they should run onto any of the sheriff's deputies now I couldn't answer for the consequences. Truth of the matter is, such fellows ought to stay at their homes and not be following danger- ous men over the country.” + Here come the boys.” * Jim Cummins?” » “Tam here.” * Dick Little?” “«Me, too.” ** Wood Hite?” “T am here also.” * Ed MeMillan?” . Yes.” « Well, now we will go.” “* Where?” in quick succession. “George Spencer’s house is not far from ere.” ‘«Who is he?” “One of Quantrell’s’old guard.” ‘Can you trust him?” “ Trust him?” ‘* Yes, dare you trust him?” ‘“‘Ha, ha, ha, you know but very little of Quantrell’s old guard, not to know that every member of it can be trusted.” *‘T don’t know whether it can be trusted or not!” ‘“* Because you did not serve with Quanirell.” ‘*No, I was too young.” ‘So you were.” ‘Well, Jesse, if we can trust him, if you are quite sure Spencer won't betray us, we will go.” ** All right.” Then Jesse wheeled Siroc about and cried: * Come on, boys.” The entire: cavalcade was soon galloping through the woods like madmen. They drew close to a large commodious farm- house, and Jesse called: ** Helloal!” Dogs barked. * Helloa!” Dogs barked still more furiously. «*Crack!” Two pistol shots rang out ‘* Here, Bob, hold Siroc. George.” “If you find the house filled with detect- ives——” began Frank James, as Jesse handed the rein to Bob For, ‘There will be a tight, that’s all,” interrupted Jesse, — boldly opened the gate and entered the yara. ‘i he dogs came leaping and howling toward Aim. They jumped up about him; they snapped at his hands. **Get out!” cried Jesse. Then he administered kicks which sent the doge yelping right and left. Jesse in this manner reached the door, and rapped on it with his knuckles. There was no answer. He thumped louder with his fist. Then an old head, covered with a nightcap, was poked out of the window above, and a shrill, cracked voice cried: « What yer want?” ‘* Where is George Spencer?” * Not at ham.” “* Who are you?” ** His mother.” “ Where is George?” I will see what ails
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18 THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. ** He’n his: wife air gone ter Colaway county.” “* When did they go?” * Yisterday.” “ Are you all the person at home?” ** Me an’ Billy, ther hired boy.” Jesse James then turned about and returned to his men. *« He’s not here.” *¢ What are you going to dof” “*T don’t know.” *‘Why not sleep in the barn?” suggested Bob. ‘« That’s the very idea, Bob Ford.” They went to tLe barn, and slept until day- light. They were near the Clay county line, and next day reached it. Clay county was rded as a place of refuge. ‘«One of the’ James Boys was never molested in the county,” became an old adage, from the namber of friends they had. Once in Clay they disbanded. Bob and Charley Ford, who nearly always went together, wert to the house of a man named Wells. Old Dave Wells was known to be a warm friend and admirer of the bandiui. “* An’ so ye've jined the James Boys, hev ye?” said Wells. “* Yes.” “T don’t blame ye. It’s a mighty sight easier than workin’ this ground. The grounds, too, have ter sproul peas.” ha Home been here about a week when the Ford Boys received a note, which said: “Come to Rich Hill. : ° “Jess.” ** What does it mean, Charley?” ** Don’t know, Bob.” **He wants us there.” ** Yes—and let’s go.” Then they called to Mr. Wells. ‘What d’yer want?’ asked Wells, who was shaving hoops near the house. “* How far ae ~ Rich Hill?” ** Now.” “Right now—wait till mornin’, won’t yer?” « No—we will go to-night.” “I'd better go an’ tell the old woman ter git yer suthin’ ter eat.” While supper was being looked for the Ford ys spent the time in currying their horses and feeding them, and seeing rubbing them down, ow er in prime condition for a long Ey The distance was more nearly twenty-five miles than twenty, as the boys learned ere they got to Rich Hill. It was past midnight, and the little town was wrapt in slumber. As the Ford Brothers rode into the village, a voice called: ** Halt!” : * Hello, who are you?” asked Bob. ** Quantrell.” “All right.” Quantre!l was the password. The James Boys then gathered about Bob and Charley. “You are just in time, boys,” said Jesse, *Dismeount and we'll do the work.” ~¢*What are you going to do, Jesse?” Bob asked. « Blow open a safe.” “ & safe?” - Yes.” *T didn’t think burglary was in your line.” *IU’s not exactly, but we've got an expert.” * Who?” «Juke West, from New York.” “The burglar?” “Good. Now what’s heen done?” ‘*Jake is in the bank now, has cut the hole in the safe and is putting in the fuse.” The bank was in a small brick building which stood on a corner of the street. They went to into the iron door. charge and crawled out of the ‘« Pall the window down, get out of the way and watch!” he whispered. Then came a scampering in every direction. A few moments’awful silence and follow a low mufiied, rambling report which had been partly smothered by the cautious burglar. They waited a little longer to see if It would be heard, if any one would come to the bank. But no one came. Then the banditti hurried forward. West anu Jesse James entered the bank. There lay the safe broken into fragments. By the aid of a dark lantern. they saw the money boxes and drawers and proceeded to empty them. “Come now, let’s away from here,” whispered Jesse James. ** Have we all the money?” “ Yes.” “Come.” West leaped out of the window. Jesse went to the door, which at this mbment was flung open by an excited man, the banker. ‘* What does this mean?” cried the banker. «« Ho, who are you! Thieves, help, murder.” He seized Jesse James. But it was the last act of his life. Quick, sure and swift as the lightning’s flash leaped the Knife of Jesse James from its scabbard into the breast of the banker and the banditti harried away leaving him dead across his own threshold. CHAPTER XIV. THE AFFAIR AT LEE’S SUMMIT. THREE weeks after the Ridge Hill tragedy a young man arrived at Lee’s Summit. He was a prepossessing young fellow, with a frank, open countenance, and when he went to Mr. Willis Harlau’s store and applied for the po- sition of clerk, he was thought to be just what he represented himself, a plain young man from Kansas City. ; “Did you advertise for a salesman?” asked the new-comer. ** Yes,” answered Harlan, somewhat sleepily. ** Well, | am here to take the place.” “ Yes.” ; *»Do you want a clerk?” Willis Harlan was a man addicted to drinking, and on this special morning was more than half seas over. He looked sleepily at the young man and an- |- swered: “ Yes.” ‘* Well, employ me, won’t you?’ “Do you thin "il do?” «Of course, or I should not have applied.” “ Have been expecting some clerks from home, but they haven’t come—where’s Fred?” Willis asked of a young man who was in his store. * Out under the shed, drunk.” “Oh, that boy Fred will never amount to any- ” said H arlan. ‘“«He’s just like his father,” answered the young felicw at a short distance away, foldin ‘ep teuamaada wilahse. indy convomer net @uunel him to take down. All the while the applicant for the position was standing patiently awaiting Harlan’s deci- sion. Harlan tied up a little parcel of something and put it away. **] came in answer to your advertisement,” said the new applicant; “now I want to know if you are going to accept me or not.” ** 7 guess I’jl try you.” . “ All cignt. When shall I commence?” “* Right now.” In :wo hours the new applicant was ein- ployed. Heserved Harlan quite faithfully for the re- mainder of the day. At night when the store had closed and all business had suspended, the new clerk from Harlan’s might have been seen slowly making his way toward a dense wood close to the town of Lee’s Summit. ~ hae I wonder Bondy be eure night or Ww ave to come n nand again.” A shudder ran tarsus the frame of the speaker as he said to himself: “This is no risk I-am running. There are a thousand dangers encircling me.” Harlan’s new clerk was none other than Bob Ford in disguise. Of course Bob Ford had a deep object in play- ing the role of clerk. If the reader will just follow us for a few pages farther he will learn what that purpose was. Bob soon reached the densest, darkest part of He came to a kalt and placing a whistle to his lips biew a keen blast. It went echoing through the woods. Then all became silent. i He hasn’t come,” thought Bob. No. Then there came from far across the hills an answerirg blast. ** Ay, he is there!” Then Bob burried down into the ravine, and went toward tke place from whence the signal came. ** Aha!” cried a voice. Bob stopped. “* Whist!” “ Ay, ay!” ** Who are you?” “A friend to the faithful.” ** Counter. sf “Sign.” * Quant——” «* Rell.” There could be no doubt after such a complete exchange of countersigns that they were the in- dividuals of the same band. ** Jesse!” The chief and the bandit met and grasped each others hand. ; “Sit, down, Bob.” ; Both sat down upon a moss covered stone. ** Well, you came, Bob?” “« Yes.” “ When?” «This morning.” «Did you get the place?” “ Yes.” ** Any trouble?” *¢No,” ‘* What kind of a man is Harlau?” ‘*A drunken old idiot.” ** Well, he don’t suspect?” ‘“*No — He is almost an imbecile.” ‘« Well, Bob, I want you to set to your work at once.” **T will, as soon as I learn what it is.” ** That’s what I am here for.” “To tell me” «Of course.” “s ame designs against Harlan?” “No. ‘“‘T thought not. He has nothing worth bother- ing about.” “No, I suppose not.” “« Who are you after?” “Old Peter Pryor.” **Pete Pryor—whio is he?” «The miser.” “ Oh, yes—I’ve heard of him, I believe. Don’t he live in Lee’s Summit?” ‘““No. He lives in the country somewhere, in a miserable old shanty.” “Has old Pete much money?” .“*Much money! Well, I should remark, Bob. That old fellow has somewhere buried in the earth or hidden in the rocks at least a half a million of dollars.” «So much?” “ Not a cent less.” “Have you that on good authority?” “The best. Now we have tried old Pete in three or four ways. We have tortured him and threatened him and hung him. But you might burn him at the stake and you would not get a word out of him. He will die before he will re- veal his treasure.” «Well, how am I to get at his secret?” “ By strategy.” “ How?” “ He has a hobby.” “ What is it?” “ ” “Bugs!” cried Bob in astonishment, and half inclined to believe that the great bandit king was making a jest of him. “Yes, bugs. He is a scientist.” * And studies bugs?” q Yes, entomology is his hobby. Now get on to it.” “How can I? I don’t know anything of in- sects.” ‘* Be a student.” “Oh, yes, suddenly desirous of learning.” “ Yes. ; “Well, I will try.” “Do it.” *«He has not shown up yet.” «* Well, he will before long. When he comes in get into conversation with him and his hobby, and get yourself invited to look at his entomolo- gical specimens, and then watch him.” After a few moments Bob said: “T don’t really see my way clear to his re- vealing his treasure.”
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— o borh eyes gre THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 19 “ He'll never do it. But when you get to studying bugs and insects, then the old fellow will like you. You willalways be a welcome visitor, and if you are found at odd hours and times watching him, you will not.be suspected of anything wrong.” * No.” «You can make yourselfa spy on him and befere many months you will shadow him to his hidden treasure; then the rest is easy. Bob Ford now had the complete lay out. He went back to the store to his work. Al- most a week elapsed, when one day a little old man with a bad hacking cough and dressed . shabbily entered the store. “ Got any Kaintucky Jeans?” he asked. “Yes,” Bob answered. He pulled down the cloth. “ How much air it wath?” ‘Fifty cents per yard.” “Oh, deur, it’s too much. I can’t afford ter epend so much money.” “Why not?” - ‘I'm pore.” * Let pane see, are yon Mr. Pryor?” “ T have heard of you.” “Im a beggar. I don’t see how Ye ever come ter hear 0’ sich a pore feller as me.” “ I've heard you had a big collection of in- sects, “ Ob, did ye?” ** Yes.” ««T have.” ue big collection?” “ Yes. «1 would like to see them.” * Would ye?” “Yes, Iam something of an entomologist my- self.” The result was that Bob was invited to the old man’s house. Bob had the happy faculty of a great many people of talking about that which he knew very little without revealing his ignorance, He soon made tife old miser believe he was y interested in entomology. When he had fully ingratiated himself in the good graces of the old man he became almost a constant visitor. Shrewd indeed did Bob manage the affair. He neglected the store, and Hurlan discharged him, bul that was what he wanted. He carried his complaint to Pryor, and asked to be permitted to stay at his house until he could get another position, The permission was granted. Then he watched the old man day and night. One night when it was thought that Bob slept old Pryor rose and went to a cliff. Bob fo ye pes saw him pull some stones out from a sm ‘OLLO. ‘+ Aha, my pon yer here yet. Yer better’n bugs or science. Nobody dreams [’ve got half a mi!hon here.” That was enough. Next day Bob left the neigh- rhood. A week later Bob and Jesse James and Frank James crept to the miser's house from the road. Pryor slept. «This way,” whispered Bob. He led them to the cliff. They at once began to pull out the loose stones, The treasure was drawn out. Boxes, bags and heaps of gold. A wild yell and the old miser is among them, fighting like a madman. ; aw 's hand seizes his throat, and the old man falls. He kicks spasmodically for a few moments and all is still. Next morning the old crazy entomologist was found hanging to the eave of his log house rope, and the coroner’s jury returned a vidi of suicide. CHAPTER XV. OLD MAN HAYES, Mourre Hayes was again hanging on the looking with a a ing eye up the great y road just as she liad stood and looked up t Ae so lon the co sun ea pes and she seemed to be hg other than expecting that he would rePoct Bob!” she sighed, and her pretty blue w moist and dim. : Scme one was coming from down the road. _ = not Bole” It was only her old father. | The old farmer’s frame was bent beneath the toil of many years. « What are you standin’ here for, Mollie?” he asked, as he found his daughter still lingering at the gate. ‘© Oh, father, I am tired.” ‘* Then go in the house.” ‘Tam tired of the house.” “You look as if ye was waitin’ for some un.” = Paw.” *¢ Who?” % Yi ou. ” ** Ah, well, Mollie, give yer old father a kiss an’ run in the house.” i this moment three horsemen came over the pill. The sun had set, and it required even the keen eyes of Mollie Hayes to make out their forms against the dark sky. ‘‘ Some one is coming, father.” “ Where, child?” “ Over the hill.” ** Oh, I don’t see ’em.” “oe I do.” ‘Yes, sodo I now. Why, lemme see, ain’t it three men?” Ty Yes.” “© On hoss back?” ‘* Yes,” ‘“ Wall, guess they’re some neighbors goin’ home from town. Come in, Mollie.” Mollie and her father started in the house, and had just reached the door when the three men came to the gate and drew rein. **Go in, Mollie. Them fellers look ez if they was ‘en to stop.” they are, papa.” Mollie paused at the door as three old men, all with white hair and beard, drew rein in front of the house. ‘* Hello!” said the largest man in a cracked voice. ‘* Hello, sir,” answered Mr. Hayes, going to the fence. ** Are you the owner o’ the house?” “Tam.” “Isa gittin’ late.” ** Rather.” **We are three old men an’ can’t see very well. Won't ye let us stay over night with ye?” “ Yes—I guess so. I haven’t very good acre commodations for ye.” “Oh, we can put up with anything, can’t we, Jeremiah?” **So we kin, Zedekiah.” “* What d’ye say, Obediah?” Obediah was the smallest of the trio, and hitherto had not spoken. He answered in a wheezy, cracked voice that he could sleep on a hoard if it was necessary. ** Oh, I’ve got room fur ye all,” answered Mr. Hayes. ‘‘ Get down.” The three old men alighted somewhat stiffly. “Thar, Pll declar ef I ain’t a’most played out!” said Jeremiah. **T'll send some boys to put up your horses,” said Farmer Hayes. “Ef ye'd just as leave, we'll take care of our hosses. Just show us the barn.” Mr. Hayes went with them, and was very much struck with the fact that their horses were excellent animals, The three oki men used great care in feeding and rubbing them down and currying them. ‘«They seem like regular cranks about their horses,” said Mr. Hayes. Then he went to the house to see what ar- rangements could be made for his three unex- pected guests. When he had gone the last of the old men, who had been called Ovediah, plucked the larg- est man, who had t by the name of Jere- miah, aside and sai “J let us understand things right now.” “Well, what is it, Bob?” “Not a hair of these good people shall be hurt.” ‘6 Why?” “They are my friends.” © All right, Bob. We w:ll stop over until morning and go, Unless the old man gives us some great provication to put a bullet through him, he will get along all right.” With this gratifying assurance, Bob Ford, with Frank and yao James, all disguised as old men, went into the house. Ford saw Mollie, bat in that odd diguise she knew him not. After supper was over Mollie was again hang- ing on the gate. He stole from the house and | ga “Mo! w « What?” she cri - The voice was familiar, but when she looked around she saw only one of the old men at her side. ‘* Whist, Mollie.” ‘The old man looked up and down the road, then turned a quick glance toward the house. Having assured himself that no one was in plea me he » removed his wig and false beard, ob. ae ] “ Whist, Mollie.” “* What ‘does this mean?” The poor girl was trembling with dread and astonishment. * Whist, Mollie, I must talk with you; I must explain everything.” * What do you mean?” was all she could £asr ». i. Don’t pretend to recognize me, Mollie, or you will ruin everything. Meet me around at the rear of the barn, where we can’t be seen.” «« When?” ** In ten minutes,” Then Bob disappeared. “Mollie had heard so much of late about the terrible banditti and the Ford Roys that she was almost afraid to be in the presence of one of them. She trembled. She dared not go in the house lest her dread apprehension might excite the attention of her parents. She wandered about the yard for some time and then made her way to-the place of rendez- vous selected by Bob Ford. He was there. ** Bob, what does this mean, and why are you here?” ** Hush, Mollie, not so loud.” ** Won’t you explain?” “Yes,” he answered in a whisper and then he went close to her and in an undertone said; “* Mollie, I wanted to see you for one thing, but.I would not have come in this way if I could have ing it.” ‘““Why, Bob—what does it all mean? I hear 80 many awful stories of you, and-——” ‘*Do you believe them, Mollie?” . “I don’t know. Papa says I must.” **T have been bad, Mollie, but not so bad—no, not nearly so bad as I am represented.” *T hope not.” “ Believe me, Mollie.” “1 do, but who are those men with you?” ‘*T tremble to tell you.” ‘Who are they?” “« Will you not Y give us away?” “T promise.” “Frank and Jesse James.” “*T feared so. Why did you stop here? Surely you don’t mean to rol) us?” *‘No, no, Mollie, nothing is further from my intentions than to harm you.” “«Why did they come?” **We must find some place of rest and I wanted to see you ” Mollie was weeping. ‘* Why do you cry, Mollie?” “Tam so afraid that something awful will happen to poor papa.” a * Why should something awful happen to vim? ‘“These terrible men. Oh, if they harm him I would die.” " “They will not. I have their promise.” “Their promise, Bob, What is the promise of an outlaw—a robber, a bandit?” Bob Ford winced under this severe thrust. It ! seemed to be aimed directly at himself, and after a few moments he said: ‘Mollie, you may not believe it, but I will assure you that no harm shall come to your father if I can help it.” She sobbed in silence. : “Do you believe me, Mollie?” « Yes.” “ T swear that what I say is true.” Then she became silent. ** Mollie, I will assume my disguise again and go to your house. You can follow soon and you ean depend on me forever as a friend to yourself and family.” Nothwithstanding all Bob’s assurance, Mollie felt some remorse of conscience. If she had told her father who he was, she felt that she would have been doing her duty. Now, whatever might oe dar she would ina certain sense be responsible for, and the poor girl was quite overwhelmed with remorse. Bob went to the house. He reached the front porch when he heard loud voices within. Jesse James as Jeremiah was saying: *«They are not as black as painted, old man.” mee ain’t?” . 0.”
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20 — ‘‘Why, they’re thieves, liars, murderers, cow- aris. Kin anybody be worse?” “They are not all that. They are not cow- ards.” ‘Yes, they air. I tell ye Jesse James is a coward, and he don’t dare show his face about ** What would you do if he did?” Boo was now alarmed. “Confound it, what brought up that unfor- tunate subject?” he asked himself. ‘Oh, if L only dared warn the old man!” ** What would I do if Jesse James was to show his face here?” cried the old man. ‘Why, I'd haul him to jail,” “Would ye?” ** Yes.” **Right sure ye would?” **T know it.”. ; Jesse James was trembling with ill-concealed rage and hate. The old man had been a gailant Union soldier during the war, a crime which Jesse James * never forgave; and then his bold defiance of the banditti now was too much for him, “Do you want to see Jesse James, sir—do you want to?” he hissed. “+ Yes,” ** Well, here he is.” . Jesse jerked from his face his whiskers and wig. The old man started back in amazement, but the daring old soldier was only overcome with 23 onishment and held speechless for a moment. Recovering himself the next instant he hissed: ‘* And you are my prisoner.” Then he crouched like a tiger about Lo spring. “Stop right there!” eried Jesse James. ‘Make a move in any direcuon and you are a dead man.” CHAPTER XVI. MOLLIE’S FATE. *‘ Tourer, robber, murderer,” roared Hayes, trembling with ill-suppressed passion. ** Hold, no more abuse,” cried Jesse. . ‘Twill not be defied by outlaws in my own house,” cried Mr. Hayes, seizing a chair and raising it to strike Jesse down. “Crack!” went the bandit’s pistol. The bullet struck one of the hard oak posts of the chair, and glanced off from it, doing the old man no harm. ;Ras at this moment Frank seized him from be- hind. The report of the pistol caused a general hub- bub. Women ran screaming in the room, and half a dozen outlaws who had been within hear- ing of the shot now came running to the house. They broke in at doors and windows, and old man Hayes was quickly made a prisoner. “Don't kill my father, please don’t kill him!” shrieked Mollie Hayes, rushing into the room. ‘* Away, girl.” “ Hold, Jesse, don’t harm her.” ** Silence, Bob Ford.” “Your promise.” , ** Silence.” *L will not silence. Remember your promise, Jesse James, that you would not harm these good people. ‘+I will have no more from you, dog.” Bob Ford’s hand went to his pistol. Some one struck his arm, and next moment he was seized and held hand and foot. ** Don’t speak again or I will kill you.” Dick Little led Bob into another room where Charley Ford joined him, “Bob, this won't do!” said Dick Little. “Dick, wiil he hurt him?” “Who!” ‘*Mr, Hayes.” “ He will hang bim.” “Then, Dick, I will——” «Hush, Bob, don’t speak now,” interrupted baer oe and intercede for Mr. Hayes.” go A «Tt. will be no use,” said Dick Little. “© Why?” mga tn i, So hang ha ol. to : ang him he w: oe Oh, Dickcan' we save him.” “ « . “ive outrage, Charley, that we should bring diastraction on our best friends.” cried Bob, who was frothing at the mouth like a mad -| Hayes went into hysterics, and Mollie was, al- THE FORD BOYS’ ‘What do you wish me to promise, Dick?” ‘That whatever happens you will keep silent.” “On, muss [?” vs Tee ‘* And see my friends outraged.” “ Yes,” “T can’t.” ** You must.” “Tt is more than human nature can endure,” cried Bob. «‘ Yet you must endure it. What folly for you to do otherwise. You would simply be shot dead and do your friends no good. In fact, Bob, if you rouse Jesse thoroughly, you may excite him to wholesale slaughter of women and chil- dren. “Heavens!” gasped Bob. ‘I wish that Tim- berlake would come now and take us all in.” “ Why?” ‘Captivity, death—anything is preferable to betrayal of friends.” “Oh, don’t take itso hard. It may noé be so hard as you think.” ** Won't he hang him?” ‘* He may not.” «Go and see, Dick.” “Will you promise to remain here and say nothing?” «JT will.” ‘Nor leave the room until I come?” “T promise.” ‘Charley, will you stay with your brother?” “ee Yes.” “ Well, 1 will go.” Dick Little left the apartment. He fonnd Jesse consulting with Wood Hite and Jim Cum- mins. Old man Hayes sat a short distance away tied in a chair with his wife and children about him. “What are you going to do, Jess—hang him?” asked Dick. Jesse answered: “No; I'll take him out, give him a good cow- hiding, and let him go.” Then Jesse went to the prisoner. “Come on,” he said. The prisoner did not move. “Come on—come on, I say,” and he jerked him to his feet. -*Yes. What do you intend doing with me?” The wife and children began at once to im- plore mercy for him. **Get out, or we'll hang him,” roared Jesse, dragging the old man from the house. «*Come on, boys, here this tree will do. You old raseal, I will teach you how to wag your tongue. I will show you what it is to arrest the James Boys.” He dragged him to the tree and tied him. ‘Spare hin, spare bim!” implored Mrs. Hayes and Mollie. ‘Drag these women away!” The women were pulled away from Mr. Hayes. “Strip off his shirt!” cried Jesse, seizing his riding whip. Don’t, don’t, please don’t har» him. He has heart disease and this will kill him.” But Jesse James, who was intent only on hav- ing revenge, paid no heed to them. “*Spare him, spare him!” ‘Hold the women away!” cried Jesse. = raised the whip and struck the bare back a blow. The prisoner started, gave a gasp, struggled a moment, and became still. Jease had struck three or four blows before he reslized the awful consequences. Mr. Hayes was dead He was afflicted with heart trouble, and the excitement had proved too much for him. He had died at the first blow. Jesse James was appalled at the result. Turning to two of his companions, he said in a whisper: «* Cut him down and take him in the house.” Mr. Hayes was taken in the house and laid upon the bed. It was some minutes before his family real- ized the sad fate of the head of tie family. Mrs. most insane with ef. ¥ Jesse James, who was horror struck at the turn of events, ordered the band to mourt. “ Bob—Bob, we are going,” said Charley Ford to his brother, who sat like one stupefied. Bob rose. : ** Where is Mollie!” “Come on.” «*T must see her.” * No, Bob, it would be better if you did not.” “‘T must see Mollie, and will see her. sounded on the air, and The signal ‘Charley, who uhioen accustomed to obeying VENGEANCE. -—— - ———__—__——_ the orders of the bandit chieftain, hurried out to mount, “Bob,” he called at the door. “ Well?” “Will you follow?” “a Yes ” Bob Ford tore off the disguise and hurled it from the window. He went in search of Mollie Hayes, and found her at the bedside of her dead father. ** Mollie!” be whispered. She turned her pale face teward him. “J want to speak with you.” “Not here.” ‘‘No—come with me into the yard.” - followed him. There Bob Ford turned and said: ‘* Mollie—believe me. Ididn’t have any band in this awful work.” She was silent. **T tried to prevent it.” Still she was silent. “Mollie, don’t you believe me?” “Yes.” “« Mollie, listen. I will avenge him.” She turned her marble face toward him, and gave Bob a look which he will remember to bis dying day. “Can it do any good” she asked. “Can it bring the dead to life?” “No, but his blood shall not go unavenged.” “Tam the guilty one.” “You guilty, Mollie?” ‘Oa ** Impossible!” «© Yes, I!” There was a sadness in her voice, and an awful solemnity in her manner, which thrilled Bob. ‘* Mollie, don’t talk so strangely.” “Does it seem strange that a girl who has assisted to murder her father should admit it?” “But you did not.” “T did.” “You are innocent.” “Tam guilty.” ‘* How can you say that?” y Bob Ford n to fear thaf Mollie Hayes, his little school-girl sweetheart, was mad. “Tam not mad—I am not mad!” she cried. “It was I who knew that outlaws were in the neighborhood. I knew you was a member of the James Boys band, and yet I kept the secret from my father. I told bim nothing, whepo I should have told him all. The result is that I am his murderer.” “Oh, Mollie, do not blame yourself in that “T must blame myself. I should have ‘de- nounced you at first. Then I would hove saved my father’s Jife. But I shielded a serpent and it has stung me. My father is dead, and--I—” She turned about and entered the house, with- out finishing the sentence. For a few moments Bob Fori stood in the yard, his head bowed until his chin rested on chest, ; He was the picture of remorse and despair. The whinnying of his horse arvused him, and he turned and went to the horse and mounted. , Whut am I Lo do now?” he thought. He was was careless. He was reckless. He had lost his cunning and the enjoyment of a dash down the road. The officers woul have had an easy capture had they come on Bob for the next three days. He was urdisguiseti and uneoncerned. On the third day he boldly entered a village, and went to the hotel. No one knew him. Fortune seems to favor people at certain times and Bob was certainly favored now. He had finished his dinner and pie up a newspaper when a paragraph caught his eye. The headlines in black letters said: **MURDER AND SUICIDE.” Then followed a long account of the atrocious murder of Mr. Hayes by the James Boys, and the paper stated that the daughter, Mollie Hayes, was so overcome and shocked by the jeath of her father that she had committed suicide by leaping into the horse pond. CHAPTER XVII. BOB'S OATH, Bos Forp quietly read the account through, ther. he took out his knife and cut it from the hia made the clipping, he folded and put he the insideof his left coat pocket, just over p> ty ee “a * 7 a ee > cee On 4.5 &
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 21 a ——————————E——ee OOOO —eoehielelel_lel*qelé_*qoq*=$ $a — —owow«= 0—_o_$"(_0q>«0s$(000w—eem.Oeeese erear—re—or"| His face was very calm. One, to see him, would not dresm that he was undergoing any mental struggle. One would not dream that the fires of revenge were burning like somegvolcanic eruption within his breast. He rose from the table and went to the office. Here a man with gray hair and beard ap- proached Bob-and touched his arm. “«T want to speak with you,” Le whispered. “With me?” “ Yes.” «You must be mistaken.” ‘*No, Iam not.” «« Come to my room,” ‘* Have you a room here?” ** Yes.” *« Lead the way.” ‘ They ascended a narrow, cramped stairway and came to a narrow, dark corridor. At the farther end*was Bob’s room. Entering, heturned to his visitor, and laying his hand on the butt of his pistol, which was be- reath his coat, he said: “ Now, sir, what is it?” “Bob Ford ——” “« Ha, you know me.” “cc Yes.” Before another word could be uttered Bob had drawn his revolver and cocked it, «* Hold, Bob Ford!” ‘ «Who are your” “« A friend. Bob’s hand fell to his side, for he recognized the voice. «Put up your pistol, Bob,” said Charley, re- moving his disguise.” **Charley Ford.” ** Yes, your brother,” «“T came near shooting you, Charley,” «* Bob, you are very foolish.” «Why «lo you say that?” «« What are you doing here?” « T don’t know.” «You are not disguised even.” “No.” «Do you want to be taken?” : After a short time spent in reflection, Bob an- swered: : “ No.” “« Of course not.” * Charley!” He spoke slowly and solemnly, yet there was a deep and awful meaning in his words. «* What would you say, Bob?” *«T want to live awhile.” “Of course.”. **T am going to live for revenge.” «* What do you mean?” For answer Bob put his hand in the inside pocket of his coat, and pulled out the newspaper ciipping which he had cut from the papas, This he held up to bis brother and said: ** Read it.” , Charley did so. He read in silence, and Bob sat watching him. - When he had finished it he asked: ** What do you think of it?” . Charley carefully folded the clipping and re- turning it to his brother with a shake of the head answered: «Tt is a terrible affair.” “ Yes.” “Tt isa sad ending of a most unfortunate occurrence, “C r’ seat -f sel mi just “ A ur conscience smite you just a hue bit” r . * Yes,” « Yes, we made a mistake in that.” «So we did. and a serious one.” not prevent Jesse. | “ Did he not always say: «* « Boys, there are big red apples in my orch ard, or there are nuts in the pasture, or straw- berries in the meadows. Help yourselves? ” “* He did, Bob.” ‘“« And we were always welcome at his Louse.” ** We were.” ** And never was mother more kind to us than Mrs. Hayes.” ‘“‘ You are correct, Bob. I shall never forget how when I was ill she came and watched over me and bathed my fevered brow with cold water and nursed me back to health.” ** We remember all this now, Charley—and yet how. have we repaid all their gratitude—how have we in return treated them?” ‘* Bob, we have done them no harm.” ‘* We have!” ‘* How?” ‘* Who first took the James Boys there?” * We did, but-——” ‘*We took them there and were responsible for their acts.” ‘* We were not. “ee Yes.” “Then let it rest. We have done all we could, and we can do no more now.” “ We can.” « What?” “* Avenge them.” “* Avenge them,” cried Charley. “* What do you mean?” / ‘Listen, Charley, 1 am going to register a vow to Heaven.” “To do what, Bob?” «To kill Jesse James.” ‘* Hush—hush, you don't know what you are talking abont.” “Oh, I do.” “ You don’t realize what a terrible being Jesse James is.” ‘*I do,” Bob answered. ‘I know all about him. Bob, knowing him asI do, [ know that by day and by night, by week and by month, by year and by decade, I will with unremitting vengeance pursue Jesse James. I will hanglike a cunning fox on his track. I will be a sleuth bound to follow him. I will be a fawning sycophant at his feet. I witl be his best friend. 1 will win his confidence. I will deceive him, and when I have him completely won over to me I will shoot and kil) him as I would a dog.” ‘* Bob,” gasped Charley. Charley was unable to finish his sentence for a few moments, for the cath his brother had just registered had quite taken his breath away. At last he recovered sufficient to again gasp: - Brother, you have just registered a terrible We **T will keep it.” “Dare you-—~” “Yes Charley, will you go in with me?” “ Yes.” “Then we will sell him.” “How?” **Governor Crittenden has offered five thou- sand dollars for Jesse James, dead or alive.” “ Yes.” “ Let us earn the five thousand dollars.” “Well, we will.” But a moment later Charley thought he saw an obstacle in the way and said: ‘How can we?” *« Easily.” “The governor will have ue arrested for high- way robbery.” “ No, he won't.” “Why not?” ‘*We must arrange all that before.” * How?” * See him.” **See him? “ No.” : ‘* How can we see him?” * Go to Jeflerson City.” : ** And be arrested and thrown in prison?” a ba will not.” “*IU’s dangerous. “So is ou life. But, Charley, Iam going to get out of this. He wno enticed us into a career of crime shall find that he has enticed his own death. I could have forgiven Jesse for the crime he has done us, but for the wrongs to the Hayes family there is no forgiveness in this Bok ie ta, accompa all ti, - ts) to accom ‘ you will have to be shrewd anc.cunning.” “ right leg over the horn of his saddle. ** None. * Ain’t heerd no noos erbout the James Boys?” 5 “* Yes.” “They're. still at} kin’ bod “They're 8 large, makin’ ev [ look sharp. Bankers and railroads tremble.” : ‘Yer don’t reckin they'll hurt we'uns, d'yer?” ** No—why should they?” **Cos, yer see, we’re buyin’ cattle. We're from Arkinsaw, we be, an’ we’ve brought a heap o’ oar with us up inter Missouri ter buy cat- **So you are afraid of the James a ** Yes, we be.” a “Well, if they knew ye had so much money erbout yer they might relieve ye of it,” said the wer won't, Ou, 1 sin’s apeis’ tor Baraat “LT won , Lain in’ ter . But d’ye reckin they’re ertoat hyar now?” F “*Don’t think so. ve Theabestakd Wil heel faaeihay, ag? tf ‘Timberlake was here A the James Boys had been in the neighborhood he’d & got them sure” Fr And dida’t Timberlake get em?” 0. - I wonder why” * ie * Because were not here. war's Timberlake!” as
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22 .‘* Back where?” “ To Kansas City.” The merchant growing weary of answering the questions of the stranger, turned about and entered his store. The horsemen, who were mounted on excel- lent steeds, turned their horses slowly about and rode away. As soon as they were beyond sight and hear- ing of the village, the horseman who had kept silent, turned to the man who had done the speaking and said: “ Jess, you are a good one.” - With a quiet laugh Jesse James, for it was he, answered: **] flatter myself that I know how to manage them.” «* Do you believe he told us the truth?” ** About Timberlake?” «* Why net?” ‘* Well he might have suspected us, you know.” ’ « Suspected us nothing. Why should he sus- pect us?” **Ah, sometimes these country merchants have very sharp perceptions.” ** Yes, but he cid not suspect I don’t believe.” ** But, Jesse?” “ Well, Frank?” “Tt will be well for us to keep a sharp look- out.” ** Yes.” * Always do that.” “1 do.” ‘You are getting a little careless of late, Jess, and some of these days——” ** J] am very careful, Frank.” ‘You are not.” In what am I reckless?” ** You trust ple too far.” ** Whom do I trust?” “Bob.” ’ «* Bob Ford?” “ Yes.” “Ha, ha, ha! Why, Bob Ford is my best friend.” * 1] don’t know, Jesse.” ** What cause have you to doubt him?” “That Hayes matter last summer.” ** Ha, ha, ha! Bob bas forgotten that.” “Now, Jesse, I doubt if he has.” *“ Why do you?” ‘The look of a demon which came on his face when he knew the old man was dead | will never forget. Then it was a week after the girl had committed suicide before he joined us.” ‘Perhaps there was good cause for his not joining us.” «+ Perhaps, for we were hunted like wolves for that. I tell you, Jesse, it was a bad thing for us.” : we in tter., * The Hayes ma 4 ¥ $ Thad o intention to kill the old fellow.” “* Of course not.” ; “ All L intended doing was to give him a gentle drubbing and put a stop to his clatter.” « Better to have let him clatter.” ‘« T suppose 80.” «Where are we going?” **To mother’s house?” It was a disagreeable day in autumn and the James Boys drew their cloaks about them, and ped on through a drizzling rain, which to- wards evening changed to a fine snow. They reached the residence of Dr. Samuels about dusk and after carefully reconnoitering went in the house. Mrs. Samuels who was their mother rose at their entrance but did not recognize them, for both were in disguise. “Mother, don’t you know us?” Jesse asked. «« Jess, Jess, my boy!” “ And is this Frank.” ‘ its I am so glad to see you.” 7 , a k + Methne has Timberlake been seen about here?” Jesse asked. ” « He didn’t come here.” ih 4 «Then he will.” : , «Ol», no—may be he has gone back to Kan- Ci te a Not much, mother. We know Timberlake too well.” ; “We will have a visit from lim to-night,” James, coolly, as he sat before the great blazing of hi ; logs. . vi Gant you bvaetay F some supper?” asked _T guess so, can’t we, Frank?” yma THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. ** We'll do it. at our risk.” ‘Oh, we do everything at a risk,” Jesse James answered. ‘A man takes a big risk in living in these days.” ‘* Yes, in our profession.” “A bigger risk I’ll warrant than any life in- surance company would care to take.” . “Think of it—an underwriter issuing a policy oc the life of one of the James Boys. Ha, ha, 1a. ‘* Well, boys, you must have something to eat and your horses fed. Have ye Siroc and Jim Malone yet?” “ Yes.” “I’m glad. I always feel that you are surer when you ride Siroe and Jin Malone.” “And we are safer, mother, for there are not better horses on earth!” cried Frank James. ‘Better horses,” answered Jesse, ‘‘Not as good.” The lady went to the rear door of the house and called to her son: *¢ Johnny—Johnny, come here.” In a moment a lad of fourteen or fifteen years of age appeared. “« What is it, mother?” ‘Here are Frank and Jesse.” “*Oh, yes, glad to see ’em.” Johnny Samuels then shook the hands of each one of the half brothers, and the mother said: * John, can’t ye go and put up Siroc and Jim Malone.” *You bet,” cried Johnny. ‘Oh, they are horses; the best in the world,” cried Johnny, boundiag away toward the door. *Johuny!” called Jesse. ** Well, Jess?” «*Rub them down well.” “7 will.” “And keep a sharp lookout down the road.” ** You bet.” “If you see any one coming this way harry back and inform us, Johnny.” “Til do it.” «Now go.” * All right.” “And rub ’em down good, Johnay.” **T will.” “Don’t give them too much water.” i No.” a Hurry.” “I'm gone.” , He closed the door with a bang and was gone. Mrs. Samuels soon had a smoking supper. It was now quite dark. The wind howled a mournful requiem about the house, and sighed a mournful dirge among the locust trees, The boys sat down to supper, and the warm, cozy honse contrasted so favorubly with the dis- agreeably cold road, that it would require no |it- tle self denial for one to leave it. “ Well, boys, what is to be your mext raid?” asked Dr. Samuels. “Don't know,” Jesse answered. “ And wouldn’t tell if you did.” o No.” **T guess it’s the best policy.” ‘If you have no secrets you can be forced to tell no secrets.” “That is true.” “And we have thought this about ourselves. Even if we form a plan, we never tell it to any one until the moment comes for work.” ; They had just finished their sappers and push- ed away their plates when Johnny burst in at the door. ‘«They’re coming!” cried the boy. “Who?” “Don’t know.” ** Where?” “Down the lane.” *“ How many?” ** Six or seven.” “ Jeas, it’s detectives,” cried Frank, who at once began an examination of his revolvers. “Ten to one it’s Timberlake.” Then the James Boys sprang to a window. Jgmes. ‘‘Joknny go and bring the horses.” ** Where do ye want ’em, Jess?” “Right there at the rear door.” Johnny disappeared, and Jesse and Frank both stood gazing down the lane. i. seen. evidently exercising caution, “‘Oan you see them, Jesse?” asked Dr. Sam- “ Yes.” * ** Who is itt” “Timberlake.” “Turn down the lamp, mother,” cried Jesse The faint outline of horsemen could just be They were coming slowly up the lane and i “They don’t?” | “They don ain “ The sheriff?” “Yes.” “ How many?” ‘*T can make out six or eight.” “He is after us, that’s quite certain,” said Frank. Then the north or rear door was opened, and Johnny, poking his head inside, said: ‘¢ All ready?” ‘ ‘« Frank, are you ready?” ¥en” «Let's go. Good-bye. all. Take care of your- selves,” said Jesse, almost gaily. He ran from the house, leaped into the sad- dle, followed by Frank James. There came from the road below the clatter of hoofs and cries of: ** Halt, halt!” “There they go.” Bang! Bang! q Bang! The James Boys gave a yell of defiance, leap- ed a fence and disappeared. CHAPTER XIX. DICK LITTLE AND WOOD BITE. * TuE James Boys had selected old man Hite’s house as the place for their rendezvous for the winter. The old man Hite was the fatherof Wood Hite, one of the banditti. And then old Hite had been a member of Quantrell’s, Anderson’s and Shelby’s guerrillas during the war, and had always been a warm friend of the James Boys. Old Hite’s young wife, for he had married a second wife, was a great favorite among the ban- ditti, and especially with Jesse James. Jesse and Frank spent a part of the time with their families sometimes in Kansas City and sometimes in St. Joseph, Mo. * Hite’s house was a large double log house, weatherboarded without, and eeiled with walnut boards within. It had been built many years before the war, and was situated in a dense wood in Clay county, considerably removed from any main road or thoroughfare, and was beyond doubt the most desirable place for a rendezvous in all Missouri. Here came Bob and Charlie Ford witk Jesse James and Frank. ** You will like it here,” said Jesse to Bob. ‘« Are you going to stay, Jesse?” ‘*No, not all winter.” ‘‘T would rather you would!” ‘© Why?” “T always feel safer when you are about than when you are not.” **Do you?” “T do.” * Well, you will have all the band here.” “Wood Hite and Dick Little seem to have no love for each other,” said Bob to change the sub- ject. ‘Don’t they?” ‘* No.” ‘*T believe you. And I hope that Dick will kill Wood Hite before Spring,” said Jesse James his eyea flashing with fire,” “ Why?” “T hate him.” « Wood Hite?” “Yes.” Then Bob thought that if there was so much bitter feeling in the band, might ke not be able to use it to further his own plans? Weeks went by. Jesse and Frank were only a part of the time present. Wood Hite and his father frequently talke.! of Jesse James, and Wood one day said: ‘* He despises ne.” “And I despise him, Wood. Ifyou kill Lim you can be chief in his place.” “Yes.” “Do it.” “«T believe I will.” . One dark night Frank and Jesse James came to the Hite Castle, as the house was called. The snow was falling rapidly, and all the ban - ditti was gathered in the great dining-room. — Mrs. Hite and the one servant had prepared supper and the table had Seen cleared away. esse took Bob Ford to a separate apartment and asked: : . Ps Wood Hite and Dick Little get along mgr | now?” ; hap it ; “ 0.” . y ry< fat yey Deh * s “Do they?” . « Yes, and will fight some day.” s e- 5 4 ee A pats Rage
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THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 23 Dee eee OO OOOOO™qweDD®eEweNwOwew™eaeqoqqqqonnan———oooo*~wo “*Do you think so?” : *Yes—I tell you, Jesse James, there is a smoldering voleano tbere which will burst forth some day with a terriffic explosion.” ““Do you know, Bob, that I am your best friend?” j Bo> had all he could do to conceal his hatred ot the man he had sworn to kill. But he as- sumed a smile and said: ‘*T believe you, Jesse.” “*T am, and Bob, I trast you farther thar any other member of the band.” “Tam giad you do.” «Now, Bob, Lam going to confide a secret to ou.” To me?” - “Yes.” « What is it?” “T hate Wood Hite. Three years ago we quarreled while we were in Wisconsin. He has always defied my authority; I want to kill him.” ** And you will, Jesse.” “Do you think it?” “IT do. Youdo whatever you want to do.” “Well, Bob, you are correct there.” “Now, Jesse, tell me, didn’t you come here for that purpose?” “Pos. “T knew it.” “ Are you a mind reader?” “No, but Iam a motive reader.” ** Bob, you are the shrewdest man in my band and I've a mind to make you my lieutenant.” “*Have you?” « Yes—would you like it?” «© Yes.” ‘ *«T will in time. Now to busiacss. If Dick Little and Wood Hite resame their quarrel to- night let it Zo on.” **T will.” «If they draw pistols get out of the way—I shall settle Wood Hite, but { would rather have the band think it was Dick Little.” ** Of course.” « And as to Dick, I haven’t much against him, though in reality I don’t care much about him.” “Nor I Does Frank and Jim Cummins ee this?” = “ o” ““Why don’t you explain to them?” pate I don’t want my motives known to too many, b. The reader will understand how Bob Ford must have worked on the bandit king of America in order to get so completely in bis confidence as he had done. Jesse James was a shrewd, suspicious fellow, as history has shown. He never allowed any one to get the advantage of him, and watched the members of his own band. By what remarkable power Bob Ford had suc- ceeded in gainitg the contidence of the man he bad sworn to slay, the world will never know. Throughout all his scheming and planning to bring about the dread result of his vengeance, and at the same time deliver himself and his brother from the law, Bob Ford never once awakened the faintest suspicion in the mind of Jesse James. ‘ Bob and Jesse went into the dining-room where the band was seated about the table play- ing cards and dice. Some were gambling and some were playing for pastime. Dick Little and Jim Cummins were at one end of the table playing poker. Y Wood Hite, who had imbibed rather-more than the James Boys permitted, was becoming bois- ** Wood, make less noise,” said Jesse. « Less noise— I am on the war path!” in the air. must keep quiet.” : “I can lick any man that says I am to keep ot . +» Come—come, Wood, let us ha uarrel- ing,” said Frank Jumes. eee «« Perhaps. you had better get out of the way.” Eos started toward the door as Dick Little cried: “ Wood Hite, sit down!” cried Dick Little in a raze. **T won't.” “If you can’t behave yourself go out of the I house until you sober off.” ‘** Pll shut you up in a minute.” “ You won't.” “Ty will.” ** Sit down.” ** Shut up.” “‘ Wood Hite, you have insulted me as long aa I will endure it.” “Then it’s a fight.” ‘ Yes.” ‘“‘ Hold, hold, put those pistols up!” cried Jim Cummins. ‘‘ No, he’s got to die!” roared Wood Hite. “ Clear the room!” shouted Dick Little. Dick had seen Wood Hite draw his pistol and had drawn his own revolver. in the first shot. Dick Little uttered a groan and staggered. A bullet had struck his leg. Crack! Crack! Crack! They were now firing a fusillade at each other and Dick’s hat was shot off his head. ** Out of the room.” “‘ Clear the way everybody.” Jim Cummins darted under a table, and lay there safe from the bullets which whizzed thick as hail above them. The fight had progressed until the room was full of smoke. Dick Little, wounded at the very first shot from Wood Hite’s pistol, staggered and leaned upon the table. His shots went wild. Wood Hite in his blind, drunken fary, was shooting more at random than at anyone. Jesse James crept forward, flred one shot, and Wood Hite fell dead. That night they dug a grave and buried him in the garden, and no one but Bob Ford knew that it was Jesse’s hand that slew Wood Hite. «“« He has had his revenge,” Bob Ford said to himself, as he watched the bandit chief whose very name had become a terror. ‘* He has had revenge, but the day is coming when I will have mine. Mollie Hayes you shall be avenged!” CHAPTER XX. OLD HITE IN A RAGE. “Wuart will we do with Dick Little?” Frank James asked, **He must be sent out of the country,” Jesse answered, “ He is shat.” “Bad wounded?” “Yes, be’s got a bullet in his thigh.” Dick had been carried into an apartment. in the wing of the house and laid upon a bed. Bob ran into the apartment where the James Boys were and said: «Jesse, we must do something for Dick at once.” “ Why?” “Old man Hite is in a rage.” “* About what?” ‘ ** His son.” “ Being killed?” “ Yes.” “* Well, it waa a fair fight.” ‘ He says it was not. He swears that unfair means were taken of Wood Hite and that he was assassinated.” Jesse’s brow grew dark, and his eye assumed the fatal glitter which always appeared on it when he was red. whe ios does think assassinated him?” he “ee Dick.” Jesse led Bob uside. ate *: Does he intimate that it was any one else?” ‘ 0.” ——————————— ee —_——_— oi) “* And you?” . After a moment’s reflection Jesse Jumes said: ‘* Well, I will go too.” At this moment loud yells and exclamations of anger could be heard in the front apartment. The voice betokened both anger and grief, perhaps the most dangerous elements that can combine in one’s feelings. * Who is it, Bob?” «+ Hite.” «He is enraged.” ‘«Let me go—let me at him—I will avenge my child.” “Keep quiet, Mr. Hite,” some of the band expostulatingly said to the enraged father. «Keep quiet, keep quiet!” yelled the old man in a voice that rang throughout the building and could be heard far out over the forest. ‘To keep quiet when my poor boy lies out there cold and dead would be sacrilege. I will not keep uiet.” % “*T must go to him,” said Jesse. *« Jesse, promise me you won't shed any more blood.” Jesse turned to gaze at Bob for a moment, and answered: “No, I will shed no more blood for this ntght, Bob, but the old man must do Dick no harm,” «You can surely prevent him.” “Yes.” « And you will not harm him?” ‘* No.” Jesse hurried into the room where Jim Cum- mins, Frank James and another outlaw named Ed McMillan were holding Mr. Hite by main force to prevent his doing Dick Little an injury. «Get away from me. Oh, let metathim. I want to get at him. I will kill him. Do you hear me? I will kill him,” cried Mr. Hite, struggling to free himself. “Mr. Hite, what do you mean?” Jesse James asked, on entering the apartmeat where the afflicted father stood. ** My boy has been killed.” ‘Il am aware of that.” “And I am going to kill his murderer.” “Calm yourself, Mr. Hite.” “T won't.” “You mast.” At this moment there came a rap at the door. The storm was howling wild without, and the house being isolated so far from any main road of travel that the sudden rap at the door was enough to arouse the curiosity, if not excite the alarm, of all within the house, “Sh!” whispered Jesse. ‘‘Mr. Hite, we will have a visitor soon. Do you want to hang?” “No.” ’ «Phen you must change your manner.” “The old man’s cheek was damp with tears. He wiped them away, ard in an undertone said: «This is not over yet.” “No; but some one must go to the door and see who that is.” “T will go.” The manner of the old man was changed in a moment, and he went hurriedly to the door, which he swung open, A traveler, mniffled in a great coat and carry- ing a riding whip in his hand, stood there. ** Who are you?” demanded Old Man Hite. se A benighted traveler, sir. I have lost my way. “ What do you want?” “* Shelter until morning for myself and beast.” He was aman past middle age, but had the general appearance of a business man. Old Hite scrutinized him carefully fora few moments and said; ; « Pll see.” . Then he closed the door on the shivering stranger, leaving him to wait in the cold and driving storm while he went to consult with some one. «« Jesse, what am I to do?” he asked, ‘* Here is aman who has lost his way and wants to stay all night with us.” «Is there but one man?” That's all.” ~* *Y * f ** What does he look like?” _ ; «« 4 farmer, a drover, tradesman, or commo: traveler.” - f ** Well, admit.” ’ a fo “ money en ’ boys will have it.” + pe 4 i ** Yes. ‘ + eevee be Ee, * Then we can have two graves‘in the garden Then turning to the others the bandit king «We must not allow the stranger to see us. So come Into another apartment. Let us xo in- to a wing of the house.
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- 24 They followed him. Jesse turned back to see tha: all traces of the recent combat had been eradicated from the dining-room and to enjoin on Old Man Hite the greatest caution, ‘*You must not by word or act intimate what has happened.” — “PU not, but as soon as he is gone I will kill Dick Little.” “You and Dick for that,” Jesse answered. * But remember that you Lave the safety of the entire band to look after.” 7 “I know.” Then Jesse turned about and hurried into the apartment where his band was assem led. «Now, lads, we’ve got to uo some very lively planning.” “* What is it?” asked Bob. ‘*Dick must be got away from here to-night.” “This very night?” ‘«This very hour. There is blood in the old man's eye and he means mischief. Unless we get Dick away the tragedy will be doubled.” “ How’ll we do it?” ‘* Bob, you must stay.” Bob looked ‘jisappointed. ** You have changed your plans.” “Yes, or rather my plans have changed them- selves, I will take Charley with me to Ken- tucky and will leave you here with Frank, Jin and Ed. Charley!” “Yes, sir.” “Go to the barn and harness the grays to the double seated sleigh.” * Are you going by sleigh?” “We must. Dick is too badly wounded to go on horseback. Iwill take him to my mother’s house, where our step-father, Dr. Samuels, will extract the bal! and treat him until we are able to get him on to Kentucky.” **You are going to Kentucky?” “Yes. Now, Charley, get the sleigh.” Jesse then gave a few instructions to Bob and Frank, mainly to the effect that they were to keep together and be cautious, Charley soon brought the sleigh, aud all were ready. They carried Dick Little out through the win- dow, and placing him ir the sleigh, harried away with him. “Now, hoys!” said Frank James, when all had once more returned. ‘I’ve made up my mind that we'll do up this stranger.” “Why?” esked Bob. ** He’s got money.” _ How’'ll we do it, Frank?” asked Jim Cum- mins, ‘**Knock him on the head, and put him along- side of Wood Hite.” Bob Ford shuddered. This villain could talk of murder and robbery as though it was an ordinary matter. Without seeming to dissent he ascertained the room in which the stranger was to sleep, and determined to warn him to fly. Under pretense of going to bed Bob slipped out of the house, climbed a walnut tree which grew up under the window of the room in which the new-comer was to sleep, and entered the room before he did, He concealed himself in a small closet and a few moments later the stranger came to the room. As hs was about to retire, Bob stepped forth and whispered: : o Don’t!” “Where did you come from?” asked tle "For answer Bob pointed to the closet, and with his fingers to his lips whispered: ** Lower! Talk lower.” “ Who are you?” whispered the stranger. * One Wao heed save your life,” ‘* Yes. I see I am in a den of thieves?” “ Yes.” ‘« Murderers?” * You are.” “ Who are they?” ue you ever hear of the James Boys?” * Yes. “ This is their ren us. are here to- dezvo They t, and a plot has been laid to kill you.” “To kill me! Why?” eden no doubt a brave man, for : comer was wae bel alarmed by this intelli THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. ‘* Becanse [ am tired of this life, and want to get out of it.” ‘Tam glad I met you, sir, for I may be of aid to yon. lum Carl Greene, one of Pinkerton’s detecuives, sent to capture the James Boys. Will you help me do it?” *« Yes, but we can’t to-night. You must go.” **T will go, but I will see you again. You can go below now, and when they come to kill me they won’t find me here,” said Carl Greene with a smile. Bob went below. At midnight Frank James and Ed went up to kill the traveler, and were amazed to find his room empty. Old Hite rushed into Dick Little’s room to assassinate him, but found him gone, and his rage knew no bounds. CHAPTER XXI. JESSE’S WILD RIDE. Weeks have passed. Jesse and Charley Ford sufely conducted Dick Little to a place in Kentucky, where he could remain, it was supposed, in seclusion. ** Now Charlie, you can go back to Missouri by the rail road if you wish,” said Jesse. ** How are you going?” ** On Siroc.” Jesse had brought Siroc with him. “*Won’t old man Hite be furious at us, Jesse?” *T suspect he will.” * And so do 1.” * When you go buck you had better not go to lis honse.” “T won't.” - 4 “Where will you go?” **T don’t know.” ‘“‘T have it, Charley, go to my house.” ** At Kansus City?” “No, I've moved to St. Joe. met my wife and children?” “No.” * Well they know of you and Bob, Go and find Bob and when you get to my house, give hcr this ring and tell her that you were sent by the owner of it to remain.there until he came.” ‘* Describe her so T will know her.” * She is known in St. Joseph as Mrs. Jackson. and with her two sons lives on the hill north part of the town in a small cottage which over- looks the Missouri. There you will find them, and there you will be welcome.” Charley Ford set out that very night and went to find Bob and go to St. Joseph. Jesse James mounted Siroc next morning, and entering the old Louisville road went for half a ~ in the direction of the great soutkern city. hen he came to a small wayside inn where Lol halted and asked for his dinner and horse “Yes, sir, I'll send a boy to put up yer horse,” said the country landlord, The James Boys made i: a rufe from which they never varied to look after their own horses. They went always to look after them them- selves. Jesse therefore said he would go to see about is horse, “Oh, the boy can do it.’ “Tl go.” “* Not nevessary.” ** Yes, it is.” yo eae “‘T always feed my own horse.” “Do yer" ? “Yes.” ‘* Wall, I reckin ye'll hev ter go,” “Yes, I will. see that he has just the right kind of food and the right quantity also.” Jesse James went with a negro boy who led Siroc +o the barn, “Golly, boss, yez got er mighty fine hogs.” te Yes.” “Bet he kin run.” “He can.” “ Ride him fur!” ** Not very.” ‘* Wall, boss, dar war some fellers here lookin’ fur de James Boys, an’ dey said dat Jesse James rid a big black hoss, sumfin like dis’n iz.” “Did they?” Jesse James was now all interest and atten- tion. “ Yes, dey did.” Have you never ‘“‘ Carl Greene!” gasped Jesse, The situation was alarming. He removed the saddle, curried Siroc, cooled his back, and re- placed the saddle once more. “There is no knowing how soon I may have to mount and ride for life,” !e thought. Then he wert to the house and said: ‘* How soon can I have dinuer?” “Tn a few minutes, sir.” “All right—hurry up!” “Tl have it ready in short order. the bar-room and smoke a cigar.” ‘*] prefer to smoke on the porch.” ‘©On the porch?” “Yea.” “ Why, it’s winter now.” “*T enjoy the winter.” “Vd think ye’d not care for the cold blast that sweeps down the hills,” T enjoy it.” ‘*Where did ye come from—Greenland?” Laughing, Jesse answered: “No, I’m from Dakota.” **Oh, yes.” , ‘ve been rocked on cyclones and fed:on bliz- zards. My toys of childhood were mountains of snow and glaciers of ice. The cold north wind is my mother that sung me to sleep.” Jesse could not repress a smile at the look of astonishment on the face of the landlor.t. : Wall, mister, yer what I'd call a gee-ranch- er. songh gee-rancher was u new word in the vocabulary. of Jesse James, he «didn’t exactly know what a gee-rancher was, but he did not care for a definition, and contented himself with Come in saying: ‘+ Hurry up with my dinner.” «Yea.” : inner was at last announced and he was told to come in, ‘* Guess ye can stand the heat o’ a room long ernuff ter eat yer dinner, can’t yer?” ‘© Pil try.” ‘* I'll bring in a cake o’ ice ter rest yer feet on ef yewant it,” Jesse was about to make some reply to this sally of wit when the clatter of horses’ houfs arrested his attention. He paused in the hullway to see a long-haired middle aged man draw rein in front of the house and ask; “* Can I get dinner?” “ Yes.” ‘* Horse fed?” “Fon.” “I gat down,” He dismounted. ‘¢ Take my horse to the barn.” The negro boy who came out hurried away with the horse. It was but a few moments until the stranger entered, ‘* Where are yer goin’?” asked the landlord, To Louisville.” “«Guess yer got company.” ‘* Where?” asked the stranger. “Thar.” The landlord pointed at Jesse. ‘ The new-comer gave the bandit king a steady Ze, 4 Jesse returned it. “J have seen him afore,” Jesse thought. **Now, where have | seen him?’ And the stranger thought. “ That fellow is disguised, but I have certainly seen him. + Ain’t 7 goin’ ter Louisville?” asked the landlord of Jesse. ce “No.” ‘*Wha:? J thort ye said ye war?” 3 “ No. Yr = ‘* Let’s eat.” _ All sat down. The stranger eyed Jesse, ond Jesse eyed the stranger.” ‘I say, sir, do you know me?” asked the bai * 3 of Jesse. aa 0.” ‘«What Go you keep your eyes on me for?” *<T’'ve seen you.” “Yes, and Jesse James you are my prisoner.” ‘Carl Greene!” “ Surrender.” “Crack!” tT! tol hots t i ion, wo 8) out in But Bie A fired both fell under the table and James hurled himself the window, alighting on the ground the house, hie * face barn. — Pee oe pak te. “ " ?
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Away he ran. “ Bang!” “ Whiz!” The bullet tipped the broad rim of his hat, and next moment Jesse was on Siroc. * Clear the way!” he shouted, dashing out into the road. Carl Greene, for the pursuer was the famous _ detective, blew a shrill blast on a silver whistle. Next moment a dozen men’ came out of the snow freighted woods ard spurred their horses after Jesse James. Then began a wild, desperate ride with Jesse James in the lead. **Come on, come or!” he shouted, rising high in his stirrups aad waving his. hat in the air. ‘I will lead you a merry, merry chase.” It was a mad, wild flight. Down a dark recky glen sped Siroc, chased by half a dozen of the best blue blooded horses of Kentucky. Kentucky thoroughbreds have long = their reign as the swiftest horses in the world. There can be found the thoroughbreds, the pure Arabian stock and finest animals in the world, But none could outstrip Siroc. In speed and endurance he never found his equal in all his life, and on this occasion he soon distance every competitor. “ They will have to give it up!” laughed Jesse Jam e8. . ‘* Ha, ba, ha, ha!” he roared aloud. “Did you fosls expect to overhaul Siroc.” Night came on and the pursuers were lost sight of. CHAPTER XXII. A DUEL, ANOTHER week has rolled by. It is a lonely davyin January. There are sone delightful days in Jayuary down in Kentucky. The sun shines as brightly as in May and the birda sitvg in the trees, and one-half expects to see the flower bloom and grass grow. Hornellsville, Kentutky, was a quiet —we might almost say a dull, sleepy, little town. Sometimes a Southern gambler comes there to make things lively, and sometimes he has to leave the town to save his life. ** Well, squire, how are ye gittin’ along?” asked a rough-looking personage entgring the art. “Oh, very poorly, Ruil.” “ Why?” : +“ Don't enough business.” « What, is the town so quiet.” « Yes, haven't had but three ts in a week.” ‘Oh, shame,” cried Raff. Why that’s a dis- grace to mankind. What's the matter wi Hornellsville.” + «| don’t. know,” answered the justice, with a smile. “ We | don’t get business enough for coffee money.’ . m uire, T'll stir up some busi- eee eae Ruff as he went out of the office. t to a house where gambling was tol- pen ean wenided his way us if he was in- t on keaping good his word. , be daynony ae who wauts to fight?” asked Ratt. « Hello, Ruff, what’s the matter with you?" * Nothin’.” “ Why do you wart to fight!” “They are complainin’ over there at the po- lice court that they’ve got nothin’ to do, and I want to give ’em somethin’,” Raff answered. Two men were gambling at a table. One was a tall dark-complexioned stranger, while the other was a young man with fair hair and bine eyes. At sight of the young man Raff's eyes flushed with fire and all the evil iv him rose to the surface. Iva Panl Granger,” he whispered through his teeth. “Tl kill him, curse him, Pll kill He stole from me the girl I would have a ee , ‘ Granger looked up and at sight of Raff his il?” asked the man with whom he ng. | F something is amiss. What is it?” an enemy here. a T must die.” 1. do you mean. a ee: er who has just entered the saloon He has come to pick narrel in Kentucky THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. 25 ** Aye, you won her?” ‘Yes, Mr. Moses, can’t you help me?” ‘Are you afraid to fight him?” answered Moses. ** No, but act as my second.” Moses rose tu his feet. “Tm a bad man,” he thought. “I have defied death a thousand times, so what need I care. No, I'll do it.” He rushed past Ruff Parker, and as he did go, tread on his foot. «© Oh, ouch, ye fool!” yelled Parker, striking at Moses. Moses expected this, and skillfully warding off the blow, planted an underhand stroke that sent Parker heels over head. « A fight, a fight!” yelled everybody. * Clear a ring!” «« Everybody clear a ring!” **Ti’s Ruff—duelin’ is his forte.” “I dare him toa duel!” cried Moses, coolly folding his arms across his massive chest. Ruff, who waa getting upon his feet, was blind with rage at that challenge. ; * Dare me!” roared Ruff. Tae.” ** To fight ycu?” o Yes ” Tl do it.” * When?” ‘Now. Sooner the better.” “Tam ready.” ** Name yer weapons.” ‘* Pistols fifteen paces.” ‘ Pistola be it then. Whar’s yer second.” For answer the stranger pointed to Paul Granger. “Mine is Joe Todd.” Todd came forward. ‘‘Look here, Mr. Moses, you are a stranger, and this seems Lo be taking my quarrel on yourself.” **No iv’s not.” ‘* He is a cead shot.” ‘*Yes—hadn’t you better recant?” “Oh, no.” ; * Bat he is a sure shot.” “So you informed me, and 1 am very much obliged to you for it.” “Are you? Will you still persist in fighting?” ‘*Of course ” ‘Can't we prevent it?” “ No—please measure the ground, we have no time for delay.” **But I would rather you would let me fight.” ‘*Iv’s my quarrel,” said Moses emphatically, “and I propose to settle it.” Seeing there was no way to settle the matter Granger and Todd went out to the wood on the north of Hornelisville, and measured the ground. Pistols were uced. Some one a case of dueling pistols, and these were*brought into requisition, and every- thing got ready. The men took their places and weapons were put in their hands. “Now, gentlemen,” said Todd, “Tl count three and then say fire.” “All right.” **One.” The pistols were cocked. “ Two!” They were raised. ** Three!” They were aimed. “ Fire!” Crack! Crack! nee shots almost simultaneously rang out on e air. One moment both men stood erect, and then Ruff Parker with a half muttered curse and groan fell shot through the head. ** Are you hurt?” asked Paul Granger, rashing to Moses, ‘Not a scratch. Where is my horse?” ** There.” ‘«1 will mount and leave,” he said, as he went koma his horse. * one with me.” ranger accompanied him. ‘Jt was ail fair was it not?” asked Moses. ** Perfectly faii,” Paul answered. ‘You have removed him from my path, and I thank you for it, Mr. Moses.” * Don’t thank Moses.” true king of the away as was, in the wind, while Paul with amazement and « Jesse James,” he ed atlast. ‘Can it be? Is he really Jesse James? And was my life rapidly as Siroc could ca’ fact, almost at the speed Granger stood transfixed saved by the most noted bandit the world has ever seen?” ; CHAPTER XXIII THE HANDSAW. Say, mister, can you fasten my horse’s shoe?” ** Guess so.” ** At once?” *« Soon ez I tile this handsaw.” ‘“‘Handsaw be blamed. I want tLis shoe fixed.” The speaker dismounted from his horse in front of the roadside blacksmith sbop and stamped on the ground iu his impatience. The begrimed blacksmith looked up from the handsaw which he was filing and said: * Are ye in a hurry?” ** Yee.” “Good hoss?” «Yes, but that shoe has lamed him.” «Guess it would.” Squeak, squeak, squeak, went the file against the old handsaw. ‘Say, mister, Iam in very much of a hurry. Can’t you lay aside that handsaw and fix my shoe first?” The blacksmith, with provoking coolness, touched the sharpened teeth of the saw with his thumb to test their edge, and squinting at the ; saw remarked: * Bill Briggs wanted this handsaw before sun- down.” ‘* Well, can’t you give me a new shoe and do it?” “No, ivll.take me till sundown to set and sharpen the saw.” - ; “How much do you get for sharpening the handsaw?” ** Four bits.” In Kentucky and in fact nearly all the way through the South fifty cents is called four bits, and twenty-five cents two bits, six and a fourth cents a picayune, and in fact they have a stand- ard measure of coin almost unknown in’ New York. ‘“*['ll give you a dollar and a half to put on a new shoe,” said the horseman. ‘“ Now that ‘is three times as much as you will get for the laud- saw.” ; ** Reckin ’tis.” “Why don't you do the jon?” The blacksmith, with his most provoking slow- ness, turned about and gazed at his forge, and remarked : ““"Spect fire’s all out.” «: Kindle it.” The blacksmith yawned. “Don’t. like ter cisapp’int Bill Briggs, and I promised I’d hev his saw ready for him. “Tl pay you enough to tuy him a new hand- saw,” said the new comer, who was anxious to = up something like enthusiasm in the lazy emith. “T say, mister, yer must be in er burry,” said the blacksmith. “Tam.” “©Come fur?” welt (hag “ Hoss shows it. Ben rid hard?” ‘* Will you please fix this shoe?” pa: yer harry?" ‘4 ah he horseman grew despera *‘[ have offered to pay you three times what your work is worth.” “T know it.” “« Now I'll give you six times if you will hurry and not be so everlasting slow.” “I don’t see any use a-hurryin’,” said the blacksmith, rising slowly and yawning. “Tde. **T don’t.” “T want you to hurry.” “T won't.” * You will.” '*Look hyar, stranger, whose shop is this?” The smith had turned away to start the fire in his forge when he was stung to the quick by the imperative command, turned upon the stranger. ** Who rans this shop” he demanded. “You do. But I will run you.” “ Yer will?” “ Yes.” “* We'll see.” He seized the hand-saw he had been filing and raised it to strike down the stranger. © ** Dron it!” ey ; Like a flash there flew from under his coat the glittering barrel of 1 cocked revolver. j It was — right at his head, “Oh, don’t!” ’ : **T will if you don’t obey me.” © What _ want?” “Drop that hand-saw.” ~ ee
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26 THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. He did so. “No.” ** Now to the forge.” “Well, I will.” “Yes, sir.” Then he proceeded to tell Charley in as few “Stir up your fire.” The -biacksmith, stili covered by the revolver, made a fire and began to Liow his bellows. ** Make a horseshoe.” “* Got ’em already made.” ‘Well, put on the heels and toes and fit ore on my horse the quickest you ever did a job in all your life.” **Oh, dear me!” “ You'll be a corpse if you are not brisk.” ‘+ Please don’t shoot.” * Work fasier.” ‘*T hate ter disappint Bill about bis saw.” The stranger gazed down at the hand saw. It lay on the floor in the shop, and in his rage he seized it and broke it. “Great Scott! wot hev yer done?” roared the Kentucky blacksmith. “ Broken the hand saw.” ** Wot did ye do that for?” *So it might not interfere with your work.” “ Wov'll I tell Bill?” asked the smith, gazing at the hand saw, while he hammered away at a shoe he was shaping for the foot of his odd cus- tomer’s horse. «Tell him I broke it.” «+ You?” “ Yes.” **Who are you?” «* Jesse Jumes.” ** Great Scott!” , The blacksmith dropped the hammer, tongs and shoe upon the ground and gazed at the ban- dit king in amazement. «Pick them up.” He did so without a murmur. The shoe was soou shaped and fitted to Siroc’s foot. : Jesse then paid the smith for his services and asked: « How much is Bill’s hand saw worth?” «Cost five dollars new.” “Tr did?” oe Yes.” - “Well, there is ten.” And he handed him ten dollars in gold. ‘Now don’t curse the nour Jesse James came to get his horse shod and broke your old hand- saw. “Gracious, sir! wish ye’d break every saw in the place!” ; A wild yell came from up the road. Jesse turned his eyes in that direction and said: “There comes Carl Greene and his gang! Come, Siroc, we’ve not a second to lose,” Jesse James vaulted in the saddle and flew down the road. ** Halt—halt—halt!” _ Jesse James turned and waved his hand de- — at his enemy. A few shots rang out on the air, but the bul- lets whizzed harmlessly above the bandit’s head. He galloped over a hill and again lost his foes to view. : CHAPTER XXIV. JESSE'S WIFE, : .. “Wet, Charley, we're here at last,” said Bob Ford, as he and his brother alighted from the Hannibal and St. Joe train at St. Joseph, Mo. ** Yes.” “ Where will we go?” “Tam tired.” “ And I’m hungry.” ‘“« There is a dining room in the depot, is there not?” : * Yes.” s ** Les’s look in it.” ae suppose any one will kuow us?” “No. * The above conversation occurred at the Union Depot in St. Joseph, Mo. just one week after Car! Greene had given Jesse James a chase from the blacksmith shop in Kentucky. __ ; It was a bleak raw day in the month of Feb- 1882. sig acon Foon tain 06 Se rol rooms tow: he din- ng - q at which is at the end of the buil Bob sudienly clatched his brother's arm. _“ What’s matter, Bob?” . «thors be ee ‘gure as the world.” “Who?” “ flush, come this way.” Gee 20 ca haope away to a corner of the passenger room said: - a ee ree ae 2 “The detective!” whispered Bob. ~ ~ 7 words as possible how on the very night he and Jesse James set out for Kentucky with Dick Litile he had rescued the stranger who proved to be none other than Carl Greene, Pink- erton’s best detective. “ And Charley, he will help us.” “To what—to get our necks stretched.” “No, to vengeance.” * Vengeance, how?” « He said he would help us; we want get rid of Jesse and at the same time save ourselves.” “Can he do it?” “ Yes.” * T don’t see how, since we are so completely identified with the Janes Boys.” ** Well, I will trust him. I have a notion to go and speak to him.” ‘ No, don't.” “Why?” «« If he wants to communicate with you, he’ll do it. Besides, if you have any plans, you might ruin all of them by talking with him.” You are right, Charley. Your head’s level.” “+ Tt usually is.” ** | know it.” ** Letv’s go and get some dinner.” Tuey made their way to the dining-room and sat-down to an exeellent repast. They bad almost tinished ard Bob was pushing back his plate to rise when a mau at his elbow whom he had not noticed heretofore put a folded note before him and said: ‘Here is sometaing you dropped, young man.” ** You must be mistaken.” “No, lam not. It is yours. Take it.” Bob now glanced at his neighbor and almost started from his chair in astonishment. His strange neighbor was none other than Carl Greene. Rising he walked away, followed by Charley. ** Bob!” “Well?” “« Was it he?’ “ Yes.” «I thought so.” *« Glance at tue note.” Bob carefully opened the note, taking pains that no other eye save his own should see it. Then lie read: ‘«T want to meet you in two days at this table. Then I will tell you where we can have an inter- view. CaRL. ‘+ Burn this letter.” Bob Ford folded the note, twisted it into a long strip, and walking to a great stove, in which was a roaring fire, he dropped it in on the glowing coals. ; Then he stood and watched it as it coiled and flamed with heat.” : “* Let’s go!” said Bob. ‘* Where now?” . ‘* To find Jesse’s wife.” “You are going to stay there.” “* Of course we will ” ‘“‘ Bob. it seems to me that we are doing a very mean trick,” . “ What?” * Betraying a man who trusts us.” «Yes, and were we doing it for money we would be villains. For no other offense com- miited could I stoop to this deed. I can forgive him enticing two innocent, trusting boys from the path of rectitude intu a life of ontlawry. “Tecan forgive him for every harsh word he has ever spoken to me, and for every wrong he has ever committed on ine personally; but when I remember that Mollie Hayes by his wanton cruelty was driven to take her own life, then her blood cries out for vengeance, and Charley, there is nothing I will not stoop to, to gain it. I have sworn tobe avenged and I will. It may seem harsh; it may seem like tlie work of a traitor, and the world will never adjudge us aright, but it must be done and I will do it by fair means if T can, by foul if I must.” ** Well, come with me, Bob.” “ You can find the house?” o Yes. A preety little woman was arranging a neat, ittle house on the hi!l above St. Joe. E rod arg denoted the good house wife and ort. Two children were playing on the floor. cau and saw two young ‘alta sanding tera = pene They were strangers to her and she was in the act of closing the door, when one of them said: * This is Mrs. Jackson?” ** Yes, sir.” **T brought you something.” He gave her a ring. «Where did you get it?” she asked. ‘* He gave it to me.” “* Who?” Charley went closer and whispered: ‘** Jesse James, your husband. He said for me to come to you with it and that he sent us here.” ** Who are you?” ‘‘The Ford Boys.” ** His best friends.” “ Yes. ” “1 have heard which 18 Bob?” “Tam.” ‘Haven't you a present from him?’ ** Yes, a pistol.” Then Bob produced a silver-mouuted, ivory- handled revolver which Jesse James had given him. It was recognized ‘ut once by his wife, who said: “I know you both now. come.” She shook their hands and asked when they had seen Jesse, and wanted to know how soon he would be home. . Charley told her that he was coming from Kentucky on horseback. * And he rides Siroc?” ii Yes.” ** Then unless he is chased by detectives from the route that is most direct he will be here him speak of you so often, You are wel- soon, for Siroc ie a swift-footed steed and will bring his master home very svon.” CHAPTER XXV. GOING TO JEFFERSON CITY. ‘* CHARLEY?” ‘* Well, Bob.” ‘Tris is the day I am to meet Carl Green.” “And youn go?” Yes. “ What will I do?” “Stay here.” ‘And let you go alone?” ** Of course.” * But can you trust him?” * Of cqnrse.” **l am afraid of detectives.” **But not of this one. Now do you fix up some excuse for me going away to tell Mrs. James.” ‘‘T am looking for Jesse back at any moment. Unless detectives or old man Hite or some one turns him aside he will be home soon.” ‘* Make an excuse for me if he comes.” “«T'll do it.” “ And now [ am gone.” Bob wormed way about through the city, and finally brought up at the Union depot. At voon he went in to get his lanch. He was eating leisurely. when an old woman who sat by his side handed him a letter and said in a thin, cracked voice: +s **T say, mister, yer dropped this.” “Did I” “ Yes.” ** Are you sure iv’s mine?” “T know it air fur ye," she whispered in a wheezy, choking voice.” Being thus addressed Bob Ford broke open the letter: It was brief. One line which read thus: - ** Follow this woman!” *« He looked at her and she nodded. Then she arose and he arose also, She went toa train that was going to Atchi- son, and got aboard. Bob went aboard, and is a few seconds they were whirling away towards Atchinson at a rate of speed that soon brought them to the town, They got out. She went down a street and he followed her. She turned into a small stone house and he accompanied her. : She had a key and opened the door which ad- mitted both. ; Turning into a small dark room the old woman closed the door behind them and in a voice quite altered and decidedly masculiseshe said: ‘* Sit down, Bob Ford, we can talk here with- out any fear of interuption.” S Removing a wig and the dress the’old woman was in a moment metomorphosed, and before Bob Ford stood Pinkerton’s shrewdest detective, Carl Greene. { wri tah Jerk “1 am not surprised,” Bob Ford coolly re- marked. $a? ; “TI suppose you guessed me?” <e
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}.” “Yes, but your makeup was wonderfu' “« Now to business,” said Carl Greene, drawing achair up to Bob’s side. “You wart your revenge?” *T do.” * But you don’t want to hang for it?” “No.” ‘+ [ have tried every means for seven years to captare Jease James alive. [can’t do it, Pin- kerton has lost fifty good men in the effort. The public doesn’t know how many brave fellows have been shot down trying to arrest the chief of the banditci. Once Jesse James removed, the band will quickly go to pieces, for Frank has neither. the courage nor the ability to hold it together.” « You are right, Mr. Greene.” “New, [have arranged for you to go to Jef- - ferson City and see the governor.” p “The governor?” «Yes, “ Why, he will han: : “No, he won't. - ernor Crittenden will know of your visit. You can there get official assurance of the pardon of yourself and brother, if you will bring in Jesse James.” “« Dead or alive?” “* Yes, but alive if = ee is imaponsipie. aps « How will I go?” “By rail, disguised as start to-morrow evening.” Then he gave Bub the number of a house at which he was to call at three next day, and Bob returned to St. Joseph. He and Charley did not converse on ‘he plan. There was danger of letting drop a word which would rouse the suspicions of the wife of the out- e.”” ° oak but you, I and Gov- ssible.” ” Bob Ford answered, a woman. We will a the appointed hour next day Bob was at the house and entered it. He was met by an old woman who showed him to a room in which sat Carl Greene, As soun as they were slone the detective produced some disguises, and said: * Now we will | zel ready ind go. You must be my daughter.” Bob smiled. io as a woman. Greene then made his dieguise as an old man complete, and the two, with traveling bags and wraps, went to the depot and boarded a train for Jefferson City. Governor Crittendon wag sitting late in his Carl office that night. He was a corpulent man with iron and a snow white mustache, a mild eye, and a face that was firm and fat. a his ‘attendants ee eee Bed the ‘ern: tT Geen head, remarked: ' <awes Carl Greene’s plaus have miscar- ried.” There came a soft rap at the door. — The governor rose and opened it. Before him tod a8 Oe A Oe a , *- Governor Crit en, allow me presen Bob Ford of the James Boys band.” The veil was throwr aside, and the astonished or saw that he was looking at a young man who was scarce more than a boy. * Sit down.” did so, and at once began to enter into negotiations. For more than two hours the three conversed in whispers, and then the _ governor and Bob rose to go. Everything had been arranged, and Jesse James was doomed, - Only an opportunity was ig, At daylight next morning Bob Ford entered little frame house on the te known as the Wyo Forp was almost dying with aniiety know the result of his is brother's visit. not by word or look poh re his wish. no secret conversition. of being overheard. le of the afternoon before Bob “hill to the oo bluff above followed h ce dared not by word or : : THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. “ You have come.” ** Yes—I want two men who are here.” * Here we are,” said Bob. «There are horses in the barn, m follow us,*we have work to do.” The Ford Boys exchanged glances but said nothing. There was nothing to do but to obey, and they went to the barn, saddled the horses, and prepared to follow. In meanwhile Jesse James was in the house with his wife and cuildren. For a desperate wild outlaw Jesse was a sin- gularly domestic man. He loved his home, and the brief days spent with his family were like green oases in his almost desert life, ** Come on!” he cried. Siroc stood stamping the earth with his iron- shod hoof. Jesse vaulted in the saddle. Never did man more resemble a knight of old than the bandit as he thandered down “the stony hill, his followers at his heels. The Ford Boys soon made out the second man to be Frank James. “What is to be done now, Jesse?” Bob Ford asked “A detective is shadowing us.” “A detective!” gasped Bob in real alarm, for he feared that Carl Greene was carrying his part too far. “ Yes.” “Do you know him?” oe es.” * What is his name?” “Hart. Clarence Hart.” ** One of Pinkerton’s men?” “No. He is one of the western detective agencies.” ** What is your plan?” Jesse was silent for a moment and then said: *« Bob, I don’t usually give my plans away to any one, but I have no hesitancy about telling you. You are one of the band whom I know I can trust—yes, even with my life.” “«Do you put such confidence in me?” Bob asked. “ Yes.” “Tam glad of it.” “I know I can depend on your good judg- mount and —_ and I know I can trust to your friend- sh b) Bob Ford felt a slight twinge of conscience, bat then the recollection of the Hayes affair steeled his heart, and setting his ‘eeth, he ought: «“T will do it, be it ever so mean and treacher- ous. ae no mercy on them, noronme. I was a snot ell. Bob, I'll tell you.” “ eiteat’ fellow ‘will’ follow. ye. lata, fis, wood northeast of tae city, and there we kill him.” “« Will you?” “ Yes.” **Won’t it be dangerous?” . ** Not so as to haye him li * But the finding of the dead body of a uve on the road?” “Tt will not be found.” They galloped along the road passing the ex- tension of what is now the electric street railway and the Park which is such a place of public re- sort in the summer season. In the neighborhood of Vanscoicks farm, about six miles from the city, Jesse and his men came to a halt. “ Now he'll be along soon?” said Jesae.. “Do you suppose he will follow us?” “ Yes.” ‘* He may not.” “Oh, I know = inion samineaben well.” ‘Then = a con ore?” “Green as rd.” “And will be nt like a beaver,” Frank burst in, with a langh. * There is no need then of all four of us if he is so childlike,” responded Bob. «Oh, no, but it is always best when the house is shadowed to get all away.” “ ues was shadowing the house.” oe « Well, i aie gitetne Ihe was shadow- * Of course. “s alae we never knew it.” “You have much to learn, Bob.” “1 know it.” And Bob thought: ** You have much to learn also, Jesse Jesse James was right in his predictions. Sharm SmewD the tramp of feet could be - a= 27 Then Jesse made a sudden serena. | a yesnedeame” ssc! 1 aig scc i= || Teen Jomo mote a vedlen’ ond wonderful change. His coat was turned— it having two sides, one biack and one gray. His hat was changed fora farmer’s hat. Some false whiskers and a wig completed his disguise, making everything complete, and his own mev would not have known him had they not seen the wonderful transformation. When this was all completed, be mounted his horse, and bidding the others stay where they were, rode out to meet the horseman. «How will he know that he has met the de- tective?” Bob Ford asked himself. They were in a thicket near enough to hear all that Jesse said. “Hello!” cried the horseman at meeting the supposed farmer. “Howdy do, stranger? Out ruther late bean’t er?” «Yes, old man. ae Yes. “On horseback?” ss Jaa" “* How many?” “Four men.” “Four men! after.” ** Who are they?” ‘Oh, they are men I want.” « Hoas thieves?” ‘** Yes, and worse.” ‘Good land, mister, wot kin be wase?” “Train robbers and murderers are worse, are they not?” “Yer don't mean the Jeems Boys?” ** Yes, I do.” % Good} land—then yer must be a detective.” *ITam.” ‘ Gepuint the James Boys?” Crack! The report was not very loud. There was 1 frizhtened plunging ofa horse as something felt at the roadside. “ Woa, sir. Stand still. Come bere, Frauk.” A moment later Frank James had seized the detective’s horse and was patting the dead man across it. “* What are you folng to do with him, Jess?” ‘Take him to well at the roadside and drop him in.” Bob and Charl and the four where wad body was dropped in Jesse thd Prank, Bob and Charley were silent for a — oe mare you going back to St. Joseph?” “ 0.” “Why not?” * We dare not just yet.” CHAPTER XXVII. THE LAST STRUGGLE. THE day was just beginning to dawn as four horsemen entered a little town called Garlock. Their horses were almost white with foam. “It has been ahard night, Bob,” said one. “Tt has. Jesse.” “ They pressed us close.” «* Who was it?” af “In the lead?” ; Have you seen any one late- iy” Those are the very men J am now joined the James Boys ie to thes well at the roadside in and then they “ The sheriff?” “Yes, and my evil genius.” “ He is very determined.” ‘He is, and I will yet be the death of him.” * What are ag going to do, Jesse?” «Stop awhile, Frank.” Jesse James dismounted in front of a bias winch stood at one side of the street. It was a two story frame building, and had we appearance . a dwelling. vere was no fence about porch of the door. sited ee ioe Jesse rapped on the door with his ots **Wake up, Bob Nelson!” There was no answer. Then he strack with bis fist. A window above opened and a voice said: “ What d’ye want?” “ Bob Nelson?” a“ Yes.” *« Come down _— “ Who are know ** You will know me when you come.” oe i yes, I recognize you. How are "Never mind tow I am, Come down ‘at once.” woe
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28 ** Yes, I will.” In.a few moments the front door was opened. ++ What’s the matter?” «« Bob, we are hard pressed.” ** Hard: pressed?” Yes. All night Timberlake has chased us. Our horses are run down and we are worn oul We want you to help us.” “How can I?” «« Give us shelter until night then we will go to Clay county.” ** This house is all I’ve got.” «* Well, we can stay in it.” «« But your horses?” * Bring them with us.” «In the house?” « Yes.” “Can you?” “Of course. The door is wide enough. We can sieep.up-stairs and leave the horses below.” “All rignt.” It will be some moments until daylight, and you can slip out and get hay to cover the floor of your house and deaden the stamping. Bob Nelson was under many obligations to the James Boys, and now that they were in need of uid he dare not refuse thom, He hurried to comply with their request, and the horses were taken in the house. Here they were fed and at dawn of day all save Jesse James who remained up as guard were sleeping. The sun rose. " The day was fair and the dull httle village awoke from its drowsiness. There was a black- smith shop across the way, and the ring ofa hummer could occasionally be heard. A merchant was handling some goods on his counters. Jesse watched everything from beliind the cur- tains of the window. No one came to the house of Bob Nelson’s which stood a little apart from the others. Suddenly there came a roar of hoofs as a party of horsemen came across a bridge that spanned a creek called Stut Eye. , “Ah, ha, they are coming now,” thought Jesse, as he drew the curtains a little clo ser and with cocked revolver watched them. In a few moments there came a party of horsemen up the bill. } « There is Timkerlake,” Jesse whispered. Frank James was up in a moment. *Sh—no noise!’ whispered Jesse. Frank peeped from window. « They have come,” “ Yes.” Frank tightened his belt about his waist. « Hadn’t we better awake the others?” “ Yes.” * Bob!” “ Charley!” They called softly. “What is it, Bob?” “ Whist, not so loud.” Both the Ford Boys were now awake, “ Are we at 2” asked Bob. # ei _ What’s the matter?” “ Just take a peep out of this window,” Tvs our ge pol Bob arswered, ting 2 glimpse of them. es.” “] wish we were out of town.” — “Listen, Timkerlake is talking with the blacksmith.” The blacksmith had come to the door of his shop and hitching up his trousers and Ms Sapa ing his leathern apron about his t, $ “ What’s the matter?” . f Have you seen any horsemen go past here?” “No. “«In the night?” «1 didn’t... I was asleep like all Christian peo- — ought A be et n oe 4 mberiake with a langh answered: “And all Christian people would be if it wasn't that some of them have to hunt down the unchristian train robbers.” Rada d’ye mean. Are there another train “ No.” “Then wot yer tal about?” “* We are oar ak ae at the James Boys and have traced them to this vil 2 “Ob, they mought a through in the THE FORD BOYS’ VENGEANCE. SC rrr “I's very clear they have gone through the towr. Let’s follow,” he said. Then the cavalcade galloped away down the road und were soon lost to view. “It was a close shave,” said Jesse James. The day passed, and the sun was low in the western horizcn. Suddenly there came a clatter of hoofs. “They are coming back. They are coming here!” cried Bob Ford. “"Phey are in the old house!” cried Timter- lake, galloping up at the head of a acore of horsemen, and pointing to the house. “Surrender!” “Bang!” went a gun, and the house. “Up at them!” cried Jesse. Then began a fierce contlict, From the upper windows of the house the James Boys poured a steady fire on the sheriff and his posse. + “Down with the door!” roared Timberlake. The village was now wild with excitement. Men were arming themselves and coming to the fight. Atthe cry of down with the door, a dozen men seized a great log of wood. “They are going to batter iu the door!” cried Bn James. ‘‘ Now prepare for the last strug- gle. ** Jess?” “ What, Frank.” “Let's mount our horses. The door will be high enough for us to ride ovt of, and when it is down we will leap out among them on horse back, and it will astonish them.” “Yes. We'll do it.” Then every man went below, mounted bis trem- bling horse, and waited for the last struggle. CHAPTER XXVIIL AT ST. JQSEPH. “ ARE all ready?” asked Jesse James. A momenv’s silence. * You." hee answer came like the burst of a thunder- cloud. “When I give the word to charge come after me.” . They could hear the men dragging the great log toward the door. ¥ ** Now, about twenty of you take it!” cried the voice of Timberlake, who could be plainly heard by those within.” ** Aye, aye, sir.” ‘*Raise it above your heads and dashed it inst the door.” “ Ob, what am I to do?” cried the owner of the house, running down to where the James Boys and Ford Brothers sat on their horses in the front room, ready to charge like a thander- bolt th the crowd.’ “Swear we iutimidated you, idiot!” cried the bullet strack | Jesse James. ‘“* Why not tie and gag me?” Jesse laughed. He leaped from Siroc, and in a moment had tied his friend to one of the posts of the stair- way, and bound a handkerchief over his wnouth. Reason page Balin aed leaped on his orse.. ; Not a moment too soon, either, for—— “Crash!” came the log on the heavy door. rs Steady, all.” “ “Tr can’t stand { those, boys.” «Tt can many 0 8. “Crash!” ; “ What a stout old door itis. It is of solid k. “ Yes,” Frank answered, “but see, the hinges are Joosened. Another blow and down she comes.” Frank James had scarce ceased speaking when there came a thundering crash, and the door burst from its hinges and fell at the feet of Siroc. Scarce had it touched the floor when Jesse James cried: «Charge all!” Then, like a thunderbolt, Siroc leaped through the open door, his master on his back, right in the midst of the astounded belligerante. The spectacle of a man suddenly bursting among them, mounted on a black horse, with the rein in his teeth and a revolver in each hand, night, mister. [ don’t say they didn%. We are | firing right and left, was a sight well calculated all honest people here and work hard and sleep Timberlake next applied to the merchant, but | men to fall back in dismay, to alarm any one. sharp erack of pistol shots caused the _ he Knew no more than the blaeksmith. Then another, another, and still another After making several inquiries. Timberlake ! hi 1en, like powerful meteors. sprang from _ and his men me rein directly uncer the win- | the house, and ere the crowd of besiegers could dow where the James Boys were and began to ¢ scuss matters. gather up their scattered faculties, all four were galloping away at the top of their speed. ** Look out!” yelled Timberlake, ‘* Don’t let them escape.” ‘““Who are they?” asked one fellow, gazing through the dust and smoke. He had been riddev dow: by one of the flying horseman, and could hardly comprehend what had happened, but was rather under the impres- sion that the house bad fallen down upon lim. ‘*What was it? What's happened?” “There goes Jesse James riviing away after him,” roared Timberlake. The big sheriff went to his. horse, vanlted in the saddle and galloped away as speedily as he could, shouting: **Come on, come on.” Ere many miuntes, half a score of men were thundering away in his wake, trying to come up with the angry sheriff, who was enragea at the escape of the banditu. But Jesse James and his companions were now mounted on fresh horses, while the animals of Timberlake and his men were badly blown, For three or four minutes the four fugttives thundered over the ground at break-neck speed. Jesse asked: ‘* How are yowall? Any one hit?” “ No,” answered Bob. “« Bob—how is your horse?” “ Fresh as a daisy.” ** Did we hit any of them?’ ~ Can’t say, Jesse; we got through too quick.” * Who brought ap in the rear?” * L did,” Frank answered, “ Did you see any go down,” *‘Two on three ,were on. the ground, but whether shot down or knocked down I can’t say.” “IT guess they have been taught a lesson by this; not to try to hem us in.” : ‘‘Tt was a close shave though, Jesse.” said Bob. ** Yes, rather.” ‘« What are you going to do?” Jesse was thoughtful for a moment, and uu- swered: “1 believe we will go back to St. Joe.” ** Will you be safe?” Frark asked. ‘* Yes—everybody there thinks I am Mr. Jackson, the horse trader.” — *« But a detective did shadow the house.” “It was for Bob and Charley. He had no thought of me being there.” “JT guess you are right, but he is out of the way,” said Frank. “Oh, yes, he will never bother us any more. By the way, Frank, where are you going?” ** Home.” “To your wife?” “ Yes.” ‘* Annie will be glad to see you. I am going home also, We will have » long season of rest and then we will go to Plattsburg.” “Is that the object of our next raid, Jesse?” * Yes, we will go to Piattsburg and we will metho bank Leuppose will be guived? #6 ank I suppose wil t ** All of them.” cai ‘* All! how many banks are in Plattsburg!” Bob asked. “Three,” Jesse answered. ‘ Thereis a mur- der trial in Platteburg some time in June, I think the ninth. On that day I intend to muster every man of the band. We will divide into four parties. I will command one, and rob the First National. At the same time Frank will rob the Savings Bank with four men and Jim Cummins with four men will rob another, the Citizens ” *That’s an excellent plan,” said Frank Jam ‘But it will never be carried out,” tho Bob Ford. ‘Long before the time arrives I will have wreaked my vengeance on Jesse James. Mollie Hayes can sleep quietly in her grave when she knows she has been avenged.” They. traveled until nearly dawn, when all signs of pursuit being over they separated, k going toward Clay county, wheres his wife and children were, and Jesse and the Ford Boys going toward St, Joseph, Missouri. They saw no signs of Timberlake, and all heavily disguised they entered St. Josepha” and went to Jesse James’ house. The bandit king’s time was short. ian He little dreamed that he had ridden the last raid, and that ere many weeks crimes done in his days of nature would be ; by evetpirmae yeh yoy The very pistcl w! ven Bob F was to be turned against him. s tis: y a?
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THE FORD BOYS' VENGEANCE. 29 ———————————————————— Oe ———— sateen CHAPTER XXIX. ie ar 2p a is ang yn real sat down with his back to the bed and his facé Siroc fondle 8 master, and put his head on | toward the Ford Boys. eer yer mea ts his shoulder as if he would hold him. The supreme fadenocit had not arrived, but it Ir was a bright spring morning. ««There, there, poor fellow, what is the matter | was coming. Birds sang sweetly in the trees, and flowers | with you this morning? You don’t seem to want Bob felt his blood racing through his veius bloomed in the garden. me Lo go away.” like the current of a mill race. His heart throb- All nature seemed gay and glad. Charley and Bob Ford exchanged glances, and | bed wildly, ana he could scarce breath regu- St. Joseph lay like a busy hive of humanity | when they were in another part of the barn, | larly. below the bluff and people were hurrying about | Charley whispered: Jesse looked aboat the room ani said: their business affairs all {unconscious that chere ‘Some horsee know more than men.” **I must help my wife clean up a little.” lived within the incorporate limit of the city *¢Can it be that the horse reads our thoughts?” Seizing a dust-brush which was near. hv step- the chief of the greatest banditti the world has | Bob said, in a whisper. ped upon a chair to dust a picture which hung ever known. ‘*He seems to.” upon the wall. Jesse had been down to town. They had completed the currying, which took Now the time had come. He returned to find the Ford Boys in the front considerable time, for Jesse James was one of Both Bob and Charley Ford started to their room of the house. the most careful groomsmen the world has ever | feet. Bob’s hand drew the very silver-mouuted ‘* Well, boys, I guess all goes well,” said Jesse. | seen. pistol, a number thirty-eight caliber, which Jesse “Yes. There is no indicaiton of anything | «Now, Siroe, old fellow, we will soon be on | James had given him. alarming, is there?” Bob asked. ‘0. the road again. I feel sorry for yon. cooped up Stepping vehind the bandit, he by one swift “Ne as you are in the siable. You long to be away, « Motion brought the muzzle to the back-of bis and so do I.” head and fired. Then he put up the currycomb, threw a little The bandit k.ng heard the motion, knew his more hay into Siroc’s manger, and started to- | danger, and had wheeled part of the way around, ward the house. when he felt the ball crash through his brain. Siroc looked after him, whinnied, and tried to | _ Without a cry or a groan he fell back upon coax him back, the floor, gasping and dying. ** What ails you, my gallant steed? You don’t Se seem to want me to leave you.” CHAPTER XXX. ‘‘He is very much attached to you, Jesse,” said Bob in a cool unconcerned manner. ” “ “No one dreams who. we are?” “©Oh, no,” answered Jesse with a laugh. *« How soon will the men begin to gather for Pistsburg?” «Next week.” a will be a — job.” scieam ty “‘ The biggest thing ever undertaken by any band.” . “T suppose you will try St. Joe next?” “Ha, ha, ha, we may!” “Then St. Louis, Chicago ahd New York.” “We don’t dare get so far away from Clay County,” answere] Jesse, with a smile. * We must keep our eyes on it, you know, for in Clay CONCLUSION. «« MoLLig Hayes, you are avenged!” cried Bob Ford, as ie gazed on the dying bandit. Jesse James was not quite dead. He was struggling and gasping, and aad started up to “He is a noble horse,” “*Not a betier.” ‘“How old is he?” County is salety.” “Can’t say exactly, About eight I should | his elbow. All three laughed at this. think.” “He'll get up, Bob, and shoot us yet,” cried « Well, boys, come let’s go and look after the “You have rode many horses in your time?” Charley. Bob then sprang at kim and struck hima blow on the head with the batt of his pistol, und Jesse James fell back to the floor. ‘«What is it—oh, what is it?” cried the bandit king’s wife, rushing out from another room. Seeing her husband lying on the floor and Bob homes is see my wife is house cleaning to-day.” oe es. «* When I come back I will help her.” As they went out of the door Jesse paused to with his wife a moment and Bob and Charley Ford went on to the barn. “Yes, but never yet saw Siroc’s equal. Hecan carry off the tallest gate on the turnpike.” “*Can he?” “Yes. Come, bcys, now let us go to the house. We have fed and cared for the horses, and there is no more here now that needs our attention.” eee rrr eer ernereereinceernaenet nate eeREEE LTTE HD deesipetseemanesia i a eS ee - « Charley, I am going to do it.” “No.” Ford standing pear with a revolver in his hand, -*© When?” : she cried: “ To-day.” The three went quietly toward the house, talk- “You have done it—you have done it! On, “ To-day?” . ing, laughing and jesting. , you coward—you murderer! Jesse—Jesse, speak « Yes, this morning.” I think, noyes that =| will’ work in that | to me!” she cried, raising the head of the dying “* Why not now?” ones for a aan ays, and-we can make it very ) man in her arms and trying to stop the blood “ We can't ea i i aa prot a dps. eagant. which flowed from bis forehead, where Bol had * y the door with your pistol, and as he z 7 struck him with the butt of his pistol. ‘ Speak steps out shoot him down.” See, my wife has some youngechiekens,” said | tq me—just one word to tell J. you know me! * No, Charley, we can’t. He's got his revol- | Jesse pointing to some bens with their broocs of | Oh, he ean’t speak—he iswdying! Jesse—Jesse vers, and | know Jesse,too well:for that. He_is | young chickens which were ranning about in the | jesse!” ' as quick as lightning. We must get his pistols | Yard. “* She is an excellent “wife and so do-| J; wagall over. He was gone. away from him.” . mestic. His dark soul had flown from the body to give + How can wet” All this must have wrung the heart of Bob | an account of the deeds done in the body. *«] don't know,” Ford. Siroc waited and whinnied in vain for his mas- **We can’t. Jesse never allows his revol- They entered the house. The day was very | ter.. No more would the bandit king mount him vers to pe inch ae Se Eye warm, and Je, whose face was reeking with ~ — down the ent : ith aulet 2 it some way. ‘ a ion, : rs. James was stricken w ef, Wil we ee pariinea nth per it is too warm for a coat—I must take mine} The news of the shooting was telegraphed far “ Yes.” off.” and wide. Bob and Charley Ford were arrested, “ No doubt of it?” Pulling off his coat he laid it on the bed. and on being arraigned plead guilty under ad- * Not the 4 Bob Ford noted the act. For weeks he had | vice of their attorney, but were pardoned by the least. “Phen the sooner it’s done the better. I in- | noted Jesse's every movement, and waited like | governor. tend to kill him if I have to Pi it mien in the |.a bloodhound ready to leap at him the moment | Quite a concoarse of peopie from Crackerneck presence of his wife and children.” the opportunity came. came to Jesse James’ funeral, and Clay county Jesse came from the house and the three went Jesse wore a brace of revolvers and a big | has many citizens who mourn him yet. 1 " knife buckled about his.waist. Bob and Charley Ford received their reward CRON iad at sight of his master, and | ‘Jesse, if anybody should pass and see you | for killing Jesse James. his leeve as if to try to hold him. with those revolvers buckled about your waist | Charley committed suicide, because Jim Cum- seized ails you, Siroc?” they might think it a little strange.” ming and some of the others of the bund, who What “in bla-stall.angrily,and im- |‘ That’s so,” said Jesse with a smile, ‘Let | have never surrendered, pursued him to kill } ig me take them off. him. Bol Ford still lives, and when he feels ” : ‘Ford came near him, he evinced Then he unbuckled his pistols and laid them | any compunctions of conscience at the 1 a on im i kicks. on the table. members Mollie Hayes, and say: fen t- ails the east?” Bob asked, He wiped his face with his handkercbief and! ‘I have bad my vengeance.” ; ; [THE END.] W. Stevens, the author of this story, is also the author of the following stories published in THe New York Detec- Lrmrary: No. 436, ‘The Younger Boys’ Flight; or, Chased From the Lakes to the Gulf.” No. 433, ‘* After the es Boys; or, Chased Through States by Day and by Night” No. 430, ‘“‘ The James Boys in Court and the James s’ Longest Chase.” No. 428. ‘* The James Boys at Bay; or, Sheriff Timberlake’s Triumph.” No, 426, ‘« The James Boys and the James Boys as Train Wreckers.” No. 425, ‘‘ Thirty Days With the James Boys: or, A Detective’s Wild Kentucky.” No. 421, * The James Boys Afloat; or, The Wild Adventures of a Detective on the Mississippi.” “The James Boys in Mexico and the James Boys in California.” No. 413, The James Boys Tricked; or, A ive’s Cunning Game.” No. 412, ‘‘The Younger Boys; or, The Fiends of the Border.” No, 410, *: The James Boys ;.or, A Young Detective’s Thrilling Chase.” No. 409, ‘‘Tbe Last of the Band; or, The Surrender of Frank No. 404, ‘‘Jesse James’ Last Shot; or, Tracked by the Ford Boys.” ra Gap tr SAGE TARERS, LOCH) ROW TG BROOM IGE an artis someat ae spas ade lao. tables of ed and wealthy sen fn ene tre ) os ereaes f = Bes as eee. The book will giv of Rew peach — 10 eonts. by sh goo by ; “I How York, and it wil be ma to you,
Page 30
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The great book of magic an kot tho instruction of all the leading c a tricks of of ne day, also the :ost popular magical illusions as perf magicians; every boy should obtain a Leompdiee ae will bots amuseand instruct. For sale by all new ers, or sent to your address, poseas free, on receipt of 10 cents. Ad- dress Frank To; publisher, 34 and 36 North Moore street, New York. 2730. No. tf. HOW TO WRITE LOVE-LETTERS. A most complete little book, containing full directions for ae love-letters, and when to use them; also giving letters for both the young and old; price 10 centa; ap sale by ey ane anne or sent to year address, pos on receipt of the price. ress Frank Tousey, Gree sd and 36 North Moore street. New York. Box Ora. No. 10. HOW 10 BOX. The art of self-defense m: ie easy, Containing over thirty illustrations of snare, blows, and hong diff erent positions of a boxer. Every boy should obtain one of these asefa and instructive books, as it will teach you how to box without an instructor. Price 10 cents. Tor sale by ali newsdeale: or sent, post-paid, on receipt of price. Ad-~ dress Fran’ Tousey, ‘publisher, 34 and 36 North Moore street, New York. No. 35. HOW TO PLAY GAMES. ete and useful little book, containing the rules and roxulatons 0 ot billiards, bagatelle, backgammon, dominoes, etc. For sale by all poate nad No. 13. How to Do It; or, Book of Etiquette. bs is bie a arene Ui life secret, a one that every young man de- mat. Fran North that tells you all Fra: ie Toxins, Use B Hoh Mone Buen nm Box 2730, ‘ No. 36. HOW TO SOLVE CONUNDRUMS. Containing all the leading conundrums of the day, amusi! riddies, curious catches, and witty sayin, Price 0 conte For saleat ali ne news aay pe hee if te ‘ou, pos free, on recei 8 ddress Frank Tousey, Haber, 86 and'26 nue. street, New \ ork. Box 2730 No. 4. 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Giving complete instructions for writing letters to ladie+ on all subjects; also, letters of introduction, notes, and re mente, ice 10 cents. For sale by all agpadentors & ip the hed Beates =e Xs sen a toy et oer, on non! A rice, ress fran aateae 35 North Hoore street. New York. ae HOW To SHAKE LOVE. A com inlets guide to sensible advice, sole on ee many curious and interesti ng Thee to bear oe sale by all poweneeles, Delce » coats, or cont, on receipt of pri nk Tousey, jisher, and'96 North Moore street. New ¥. York. Box 2tan. No. 31. The Boys of New York Stump mene SE Uontaining a varied assortment of Stump Speeches, Dutch and Irish. Also End Men's Jokes. Just the Sity for home amusement and amateur shows. Price devas on reselptot peice, bs: seagnl, DostPalds ts any ou ress on rece’ price . $6 North Moore St.. N.Y.” P.O. Box 273). HOW TO B BECOME A MAGICIAN. Containi assortment of magical illusic ‘ofots the the public. Also, tricks with cade to a cents. Foresle by al nenese or sent address, postage jam a ee Tals North THE New York Detective Library CONTAINS ‘The Most Interesting and Exciting Detective Stories Ever Published. THE LARGEST AND BEST LIBRARY FOR THE PRICE PUBLISHED IN THE WORLD. EACH NUMBER COMPLETE IN ITSELF. ' 1 Old Stealthy, the Government Detective......... by Police Captain How: 2 Old Snap, the Postal Service peenby Ala 8 Young Lightning, the « Sam Sly end His ve eeeeereee by Police Ca; Howard “8 Tracked vo China; or, A Detective's ae Detective by U. 8. 6 Old Reliable, the Western Detective. tenet een nee ee rae, A New York Detective Pig hy mmr) va bed or, The test of Cle y Alexander Yard 9 ier tan tiereties or, Trials ofan Irish Heir- eR EERE EEE e TERETE Ree ee i ey ye leper + ve: or. A 1s Tue ima wr pan 6 tS ees Bs og, ae pa Ey, 15 Jack Stanton the Convict; or, Guilty or Not Gaile © Anew eet ew arene wees WA cee weeererere Treasury Tom Fox (Puilaelphia leiphia Detective) ws. Detectave) LET. «se ee vere ess-- Dy F. M, Copbd Allan ..+-by F. M. Cobb The Lover of an Binns ee rgeeten eA A. ae by Allan Arnold 86 The Silver Dagger........by Police ae ver Ae Fern n Howar 37 The Fatal Fingers. sosseeeeeDY J. T. Brougham 338 DACKS: ... oe eves cescveccssnses by A. F, Hull 39 Old Merciless, the Man-Hunter.....by n Arno. &i Namelom;or, No, 108, the Mysterious Primer of ameless; or, No, ro Mount Zeeha..........-..:+0+6-by J.T. Brougham 42 Branded; or, The Detective’s Terror..... wae snot 43 The Young Amateur gee eh rattan st ooccees by Police Captain Williams 44 Sous Man’s Laon: (Ronee Je dateocnepassongeOS Ae Fo Hil 45 ‘Stories of W Renowned Detec' eeeeeenee by AN. Y. Journalist 46 The Young Nihilist; or, A Yankee Boy 1m Russia 47 ‘Thpiling Aayentiires of a Lobdod Delectivecn ventures ofa London ced bi fiag by Himself 48 Convicted; or, A Feion’s History....b eee Arnold 49 Diek Dark, the Boss Detective; or, Mystery Of Baullet,...........2....5 ate See — 50 Poor Joe; or, The rs and Beats MOEKS .cca<s's hy Caprain Geo. 8 52 The Lost er sadcgresescescsececey OME PRICE 10 CENTS EACH. 58 The Yt Bank Olerk Mystery Mo on alg erate ane He mH, 54 In the ers of the Wi 69 Yankee Donovan; or, The Unknown coed : te eo Dacron. The Secret atthe. Sores a 62 Dead Man's Point; or. “thie dader ite’ snow’ i = wad: Noted Detective... 64 The t Key. .scsscsseeessereereeee Dy Old Cap Lee 66 Rose Ainbler’s Fate; or, Old. Cap loreoe oo Ex-Chief of Mansing 67 The Torn Coat; or, eealineny or Orpaa La ry. 8. Halt = Tied p a Old oer. rhea A Police Captain Howard by H Piend.......... 18 shad: Gad Wyesidtcus Tees aaa by Police ard 1 Karey Hawk, the Young chicago ease 72 The Forged Checks; or, Piping a Hi FOE AUER eens 8, COE NS Gri 14 & Lock of Halr............sseee Ate Meanie Birios tit Yard Deweace int % Tye Hany TR Aa Himerk
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THE NEW YORE DETECTIVE LIBRARY---Continued. 77 vhebe Paullin’s Fate.........se-eeesee-es++2-- by Alexander Douglas. (Scotiana Yara Detective) 78 Tne Silver Watch Chain; or, ea ergeh Lae ive’s at he: rf Old Cap 30 The Steel seas el = age Naka 80 The Lost ote BOOK} of, he Wrong ree ek ee ee A Captain Howard 81 The Croyden Mystery; or, ir ee Bure Crime ....--+ eee Wm. 8. Hall 82 Chung Win the Chinese Bandit iaing or, AD American Detective in China.......... by Police Se ‘nt Mallory 83 The Headless Pin; or, A Crime Aven Novete by Police Captain Howard 85 Reminiscences of a Great French Deiective.. by Himself 86 The Eyeless Needle; or, Piping a Viren y Old Cap Lee 87 The Red Tie; or, Who was Guilty. . ay Wm. 8. Hall 88 Old Wolf, the Secret Service Detective.......... by Police Captain Howard 89 Tracked by a Camera; or. A Creole’s Crime.. by Police Sergeant Mallory 90 Diary ofa Great French Detective . «by Himse 91 Dick Sharply, the Cincinnati Detective. by Marline Manly 92 The Vault neers or, Trailing a Resurrec- tionist..... ows «by Old Cap Lee Dark Crime; or, ‘Detective Dick’s Success... by Wm. 'S. Hall Se Sprague and sy 3 a aio — Western ey tg, or, The Stelen Police Cap oy 95 Billy Bender, the Ventriloquist Detective. by ‘Gus Wiliams 96 Old Dan Grip; or, The Oldest Detective on the Force Police Sergeant Mallory 97 The Midaight Murder; or, vealed by the Mvon- bedeayscetasns aeecuceeessDY Old Cap Lee 98 Copper brift, ‘the Lake Detective - --by Wm. 8. Hall : 99 Some Scraps of Paper: or, Murdered in Her Own House....-....+ +s--++-.bDy Police Captain Howard 100 The order eee or, ee the Indian es ee «.by A U. 8, Detective lo 8 weds; ron wane Detective's Boast ....+¥..... by A U. 8. Detective 102 The Last Man; or, The House at the End of the Block.....-.-..0...+...by Police Sergeant Mallory 103 The Bank Detective; or, Plotting for Millions.... by Police weave Howard 104 Teddy O'Flynn; or, Ireland’s Boss Detective. Police Se peamt Mallory 106 Hunted and Haunted; or, A Detective’s Daring Game.. thw ard lin Howard Perret rer erry ETT TEN 7 : 107 Kirk & Co., 108 The Double Stars; or, The Messenger Detective a. Tom F Pe peg yer ann ae hessottve) Solv- finch Ro : 111 The Braided Hair; or, ‘The Voicevess ee ain 112 On His Own Case; or, Convicted and patignhe, Mf Old Cap Lee 113 The Girl Ferret; or, Doubly _Sente! ms i Thies by Police Captalia Howard ute m ‘Fox eesti Detective) 115 Scheming for a Fortune; or, Peres ee eee srry 116 The Counterfeit Heiress; or 117 The Carleton House bree At eee Seecesed vaste A ger Didective EY. of Bt Man’s -by 1), The Boone: Man; or, The Wm. 8. Hall HOR em ete we we eeee enters Hal Hs Hawk per slack mt ada enews 122 Number A Mysterious Detective... by Tom Fox (Philadelphia Detective) 123 A Long Chase; or, Plotting Against an Heiress 124 The New Orleans Orteans Detective: or mae Trade ot aaeeererare: 125 Joe Jingle, tue Musical Be slees = 126 ge pg the Marvelous quateereaes Number of Crimes. .--.....21-Dy Hawk Clew; or, The Secret of the Surf... Chest..... Tom. Be Recret of the Renegade orion | Playing a Doubie . ee Bint Ww A Tougi Case; vor Hie Beteecivas hinder. ‘ew York Detective ‘The Bell Boy Detective; or, The Hotel. Diamond onameete en ecvinsieeosie Rockwood Wek bee boas ox ‘A HORE RE EER ee RR eee et wwe enn, 146 —_ bdo Man-Tratler; or, A Strangely Complica- seeocesosce ‘by Police Captain Howard 147 Heche a. Bullet.. bees ...by G. G. Small 148 The Journalist Detective; ‘or, Um the Trail by Accident ...by Toin Fox (Philadelphia Detective) 49 Fayre, Donbie; or, Two Great Detectives on rail......Js....s. ..by A New York Detective 150 $000,000 | in Bonds; or, The Crime ofan Endgrant by Allan Arnold 151 Done in the Dark; or, The Secret of Grave No.9 vy Old Cap Darrell 152 Nita, the. Female Ferret..by Police Captain Howard 153 The Broken Handeofl. ......... by Old Cap Lee 154 Old King Brady, the DORON (0s cktsrndsscrves by A New York Detective 155 Cld Neversleep, the Government Detective.. by Walter Fenton 156 A Government Detective’s Adventures by Allan Arnold 157 Old King Brady’s Triumph.By A New York Detective 158 Siender Saul, the Keenest ot Detectyes....... by Police Captain Howara 159 The Silver Coin; or, The Date that Cost Life.. by Old Cap Darreli | 160 The Skull in the Well; or, A Detective’s Dilemma by Old Cap Lee 161 The Lost Ruby; or, A Three —_ Chase..... by Allan Arnold 162 Old oe —_ 's Great Reward: or, The Hasel- burst Secret. ...........- by A New York Detective 163 Silent, the Harbor Detective; or, Trackin: Gang of Thieves........by Police Captain fiowara 164 Tne Mountain Detective; or, The Deerhorn Tragedy.....-. ssees.s.-by AU. S. Detective 165 A Black Pin; or, A ‘Ver? Small Ciew.. by Lv. Brougham 166 The Old Horseshoe; or, A Detective’s Luck.. by Old Cap ‘Darrell 167 A Loaded Cane; or, The Millionaire’s Compact.. by Alexander Donglas (Scotland Yard Detective) 168 Shoving the Queer: or Old King Brady on the Scen of the Counterfeiters.......+..+-+-+ss00- by A New York Detective 173 Old Dude the Detective; or, Working = : Lite.. by Tom Fox (Philadelphia Detective) 174 Wade Weston, the ** Upper Ten " Detective: or, M of No. 20..by Police Captain Howard 175 The Insurance Detective; or, Unearthing a Great Fraud.......by Tom Fox (Philadel Detec ve; red Ww with the Great by H. K. Shackleford Sho 177 Ola King Brady in A New York Devective by 178 Parnell’s Double; or, A Detective’s Si Treland).)...0... 0c ccccccccs ob on nn Bh a Cap Lee 179 The Molly Maguire Detective; or, A Vidocg’s A ventures Among the Miners... by A U.S. Detective 180 Chasing a Penny; or, Convicted by @ Coin...... bv Hal Hawk 181 The Diamond Caff-Button;or, The Mystery at the Bank.....~..cceeseeoeees »...by AHan Arnold 182 Old Safety, the Denver Detective; or, Piping the Mail Robbers. . ...-... by Police Captain Howard 183 ar 16;” or, The Detective Wi Name........by Tom Fox (Philadelphia Detective 184 * Uoknown’?; or, The Mystery of a Shaft. by Old Cap “Darren 185 In Double Trouble; or, The Soldier Detecti by Old Cap Lee 186 Bribed; or, A Detpatives Temes, Cod dh tadine by AU. S. Detective 187 Old King Kom and the Scotland Yard Detect- 1Ve........0see0sees--+--DY A New York Detective 188 A peal: or, A. Detective'’s the World. ......-4..5.06b) 189 U a Cloud; or, A Detective’s Boy.. vvecsns en 020¥ P er pa nad Howard 190 His Own 191 Two (4 dried of the Missi’ thout a Tom’ vor Philadel Te Demative 3 Or, ou Ki adeipuie Det ing Will... wipcegrecbY A iNew York Derectiee 292 The Red Flag; or, The Anarchists of Chi wee. by H. K.S myer 193 Young Testfcen, cae Devoottvect i of Many Disgu Polos Oxpeats Howard 194 The Opal Ring; or, Toe Cunse of & Centar. aap ame 195 Masks and Mystery; or, The Trust of Percy Dare 2 ery Sivange | Billiard Ball Case.........by Tom Fox S CPhiladeipals Detective Rescued; or, The Fortunes of a aah by D. Hi ttoo Clew; or, Betrayed by a Life Mark.. Re yon Cap Darrell 200 Old King Brady and 201 Twenty-Seven Minutes to Ten....by 202 The Shoe With Three Pegs; or. Cones miliag Stories.. As Told a bya ae mi Found’ in. the Waters or, zt A Bhp on the Old Ca : 208 The Last Stroke; or, Oid King Brady and the Broken pe dedee “oy A New York Detective 209 The Torn Umbrella; or, Vorning 6 Busnes oy Darreli 210 The Leaf of a Book; or, The Page Teat Wee Mise. 212 The it Before or. Bedloe’s Island. parents ©) A New York iieective 7 Pisce 24 In Search of Himsell...... .. cer eby A . 3. Detective j 215 — Unclaimed Letter; or, Traced Through the 216 A Bag f Diamond: A Chri: My one wg ° monds. hristmas yo by alexander Douglas (Scotland pa tive; 217 The Point ofa Needle; or, A Very Small C by Police or 218 Phantom, the Famous Freneh Detecti by Tom Fox (Philadel mia, Detective, 219 The Masked Detective; or, The Old Maniac’s Se- Dinca chines ccat mnsdsovocscdsce® by Harry Enton 220 A Case Without a Clew; or, A Detective’s Fight For. Victory... .\....-. -by A Uy S. Detective 221 A Neerschanm Pipe: or, oa King Brady and the Yonkers Mystery by a New “ork Detective 222 The Moonshiners and the Secret Service Detec- tives by Howard De Vere 223 The Twisted Biade...........-.-...- by Allan Arnold 224 A Government Detective'’s Strange Disguise. ... by Police Captain Howard 225 The Red Footstool; or, The Heirloom of the Hud- >ward a er ey eee by Old Cap Lee 226 The Man With a Scar.......... by A U.S, Detective 7 The Thumbless Hand.............. by Geo. G. Small os Robbed of a Million; or, Old King Brady and the Cy ear by A New York Detective 229 The Irish Vidocq........by Police Captain Howard 230 The Pan Handle Detective; or, Working up the Great Railroad Robbery.......... 6. -.+++s00-+ by Tom Fox (Philadelphia Detective) 231 The Broken Pencil; or, A Very Pecutiar Case.. by Allan Arnold 232 A Bunch of Keys; or, The Locksmith’s Daughter oy George G. Small 383 The Room on the Top: Floor....by AU. 5. Detective 234 Watch No. 2009; or, A Terrible Chase.by Old Cap Lee 235 A Piece of Satin..........by A New York Detective 236 The Door Witheut a Lock; or, The Mystery of a Missing Hand .. Secockt Police Captain Howard 237 This House to Let: or, After tne “Green Goeds Vbaed ..-by ‘Tom Fox (Philidelphia Detective) 238 Old Cap Bradley; or, The Mystery in Room 32.. by Allan Arnold 239 The Detective’s Last Point......oy a U.S. Detective 240 A Tutt of Hair; or, brag Joung Detective’s First on «+++.by Old Cap Lee 241 The Yellow Rose......- y a New York Detective 242 among the Bald Knobbers; or. The Detectives of the Ozark Hills....... «eeeeeee-bDy Old Cap Darrell 243 Old King Brady in Ireland..by a New York Detective 244 The Wrong Man; or, A Deed of Darkness.. by oldGap Lee 245 A Great Double. Case; or, Perilous Detective Work on the Border....by Police Captain Howard 246 Old Charleworth’s Chest; or, The — ou Monc- ton Marah......... ee by Allan Arnold 247 Through Many Dangers; er, A Revenue Detect- ive’s Work tn New Orleans....by Old Cap Darrell 248 A Bunch of Shamrocks; or, The Crimson Clew.. Old Cap Lee = 4 Fourteen Cases........by A New York Detective The Mystery of Giant Cite; or, Who Killea Roger Blake 2... ..ccccceee puedes Bik airy U.S. Detective 251 The Broken ‘Cigar Holder.,.....by A U. S, Detective 252 Monte, the French Detective; or, The Man of Many Disguises........by Police Captain Heward 253 The Gloved Hand..............+.-.by Allan Arnold 254 A Ory in the Night; or, The Mystery of the Marsh: 4 Old Cap Lee 255 The Torn Envelope..............by AU. S. Detective 256 Moute, the French Detective, in New York by Police Captain Howard 257 The Bronze Statue; or, The Great Warren Case.. by Old Cap Darrell 268 The Veiled Portrait.....+....+++.+-++ by Oid Cap Lee 259 Sentenced for Lile........,....«......by Old Cap Lee 260 “ Old Keen,” the Secret Service Detective...... by Harrigan. © Hart 261 The Midnight Men.......... by A New York Detective 262 The Shadow on the Blind........by Old Cap Darrell 263 Monte, the French Detective, in cht wsebes by Police Captain Howard 264 The Man From Blarney ............ ie Ola Cap Lee 265 The Half of a Five Dollar Bill....... by Allan Arnold 266 The Fo: Draft; or, Two Great Detectives on a Great ee 267 The Leather Hat BOR. cos oces' «by Police 2 tain Howard 8. Detective 268 — the tate Detective, and fits Two New tro The Lone Honse onthe Marah... eee Avaeld 271 Twenty-four Dollars Seventeen kasd. d r Stories ey How Tors Detoanive 272 Some Queer seen ees DY Ww ve 218 Monte, the French Detective, in Wall Street... by Police Captain Howard 274 The Man in Green Goggicay or, Hunting For a Lost Diam: Old eS USS See du ada « Cap Darrell 275 The Detectives’ League; or, The eee ol BAS. 225525 .-by Paul Braddon 276 The Old Hickory Stick; or, The Luck ‘ots cuppie Cap 277 Old King Brady and the Tete: » Mystery. 278 Red Rodne: ver uae Puta aten. by Geo. 6 Small 279 A Double is Twenty Me IOs sable visin dd ; en 8. ve 280 The Other Man; or, A Hard Case to Solve...... by A New York Detective 231 Bradley eee eee ee eee tts weeeen eee » G Dandy Dan. 282 The Jack of Clubs; or, ya by Old Cap neg er nab ey Missing for One Year. Senses Fo The The Hing of Stet; Paul Braddon 285 Pawn Ticket No. 777.....by Police Police Capmuia Ho 286 The Clew in the Closet........... Aaa dan acer yg 287 Young Weasel, the Baltimore Detect by Police ¢ a ke ae ee ae rod sag LOPYssecseesccebcseee-seeeeees-e.sd¥ Allan Arnold and Adventures of Mole the 200 Life and by Police Captain Howard 291 Safe Deposit Box 12; or, 4 Great Money Vault evccccessecsccsccsceeees Dy Old Cap Darrell 292 The Piece of a Handkerchief..........bv 243 Partners; or, Two New York the Danites............sseesses--..by R. Ty a The Rranded Arm: or, Monte the French Det tive ona Case....by Police Capt. Ly ee
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, for Ireland » 832 A Bag of Shot; or, Old King Brad, 4 ns 840 youn Vidocq; t the 345 A Pile of Bricks; or, Old King : 240 34008" oF 247 The ¥ ~{ ~ New York Getettive Library | CONTAINS The Most Interesting and Exciting Detective Stories Ever Published. EACH NUMBER COMPLETE IN ITSELF. 295 The Broken Chessboard; or, Old Cap Lee’s Strange Clew .........sccre Written by Himself 296 Reynard; or, The Cunning French Detective... by Corporal Morgan Rattler 297 Billy Bones, the Negro Minstrel Deteciive; or, A Mystery of the Footlignts....... by Old Cap Darrell 298 A Diamond Ear-ring; or, Nina, the Female De- POCTIVE. 62.0... ee cee eee eeresceeee> by Allan Arnold 299 Little Ferret, the Boy Detective. ........... by Police Captain’ Howard 300 The Mystery of a Mummy; or, Old King Brady and the Cartright Case. by a New York Detective 301 A Man by the Name of Brown....... by Old Cap Lee 792 Old Double Face the Veteran Detective.......... by Police Captain Howard 303 The Prisoner of Killarney; or, The Twin Myster- -»..by. Oid Cap Darrell 304 Monte, the French Detective. in Cuba........... by Police Captain Lloward 305 Detective Davis; or, The Moonsiiners’ Terror. . by A U.S. Detective 306 Old Cap Bradley and The Mystery of a Night.. by Allan Arnold B07 COD TGs viein'e's eos 5 ieee cede seveeees by Old Cap Lee 308 Pinkerton’s. Little’ Detective; or, The Dread of the Williams Brothers............. by Robert Maynard 309 Two White Powders; or, A Detective’s Piot..... by Police Ca nes Howard 310 The Mystery of the Mill......... .«by Old Cap Darrell 811 Tattle Dick. the Boy Detective..by Pol. Capt Howard 312 Two sage Skulls; or, A Detective’s Fata: «coseccesere es DY A U.S. Detective 313 The ‘ofa Book-Oase.......... by Old Cap Lee 314 Jerry Owens, the Young Western Detective... --. by Robert Maynard 315 Five Out of Ten; or, A New York Detective’s w Struggles... 0s. .by Old Cap Lee 316 The Boot- k Detective; or or The Youngest Man- Hunter on the Force........-....-by Allan Arnold 317 Ola Bullion, the Banker Detective ......... by Police Captain Howara 318 For Ten Hours Dead, The! Strange Case of Dr. James and Detective me A U.S, Detective 319 The S. P, R.: or, Old King Brady and the Mystery o: fo Palisades. by A New York Detective lesseuger Boy Detective 320 No, 75, the Mi Police Ca) fain “Howard 321 John Fay, Detective; or, The Reuceates Pit Fea 322 The Head in the Jar; or, Mystic the Man- nestor Police Captain ae 223 The Ten Doctors; or, 7 Years in Search of - a Diamond. ......+++-++sss«.s....,by Allan Arnold a@ Diamond 324 The Widow in Black; or, Unravelt ystery .... Page Douglas es K Red Leather Bag. Sing, Bent of Land landSeae eed atesewen- by A New York Detective si gs ert wort o rye ee 328 cat Whwe Terror; or, The Haunted a on 329 Dick Blake y Out W byA New York Detective 288 Ventershot. the Scout Detective; or, The Secret Indian Graves.........!...by Allan Arnold Detective’s 8 Fight for Five : Seny var Cap Lee 335 Monte, eo anes White osned Dp tien an takes aster 337 eae Den Detective; apy 338 Eee eee er oe Dumb on . - bts eesese Doctor Cronin; or, AL Work 4 * Cap Case eee ss A Sdasked Mysiery: or, Tracking @ Hird of Prey Work Tracking the Rab- spun vee cing awes 8 ward | 390 Hunted Down; or, The Fate of t Brothers LATEST ISSUES: 348 The James Buys and the Detectives. by D, W. Stevens 349 Young Royal the ** Always on Time” Detective and His Horse of Many Disguises..by Old Cap Lee 350 The Padded Room; or, A Detective’s Search for an Heiress. . .by Robert Maynard 351 The Lightning, Change Detective. .by Allan Arnold 352 U. O. D.; or, The are Of a TYUDK....ssses-- by Police Captain Howard 853 1001; or, The Detective’s Mysterious Foes... by J. T. Brougham 354 The Belt of Gold; or, Old King Brady in Pern.. y A New York Detective 855 1 Against 100; or, Working. A Clew in the Dark. vy Allan Arnold 356 = nee Boys; or, The Bandit ing Last sib kd oie dels Sie bck o Rane te etis by D, W. Stevens 857 ike iron Bound Keg; or, The Error Tat Cost a Lif. .... by Old Cap Lee 368 Sam Sixkfiier the’ Cherokee Detective; or, The James Boys Most Dangerous Foe,by D. W. Stevens 359 Old King Brady and the Tomes BOYB.% ono aicccess by A New Aone. Detective 369 Nix; or, The Boy Without a Mind,.....by A. F. Hill 361 Nick Neverseen; or, The Invisible Detective. A Startling Story of Two Great Cities....-....-+ by Police Captain Howard 362 The Man in the Black: Cloak; or, In Search of the John Street Jewels........- by P. T. Raymond 363 The Hidden Witness; or, Detective Dane end His 6 ROPTOE 8, oslo sawcis scd eee. by Allan Arnold 364 The Man From Nowhere, and His Adventures With the James Boys, A Story of a Detective’s Shrewdest Work........s0..:+.+.by D. W. Stevens 365 Ward Wendel, the Mail Carrier Detective; or, Working on the Banker May Mystery, by Police Captain Howard 366 The Mystic Square; or, Tracing a Hidden Orime.. .by A. F. 367 Seat Check No. 2-1 or. Tracking ‘a Double, by Robert eaves 368 The James Boys as Guerrillas and The Tra! Robbers bi 5k oid entse oie BW Dc Wie Stevens 369 1000 Miles in a Second; or, The Ligntain Clew, by A 4 Arnold 870 The Secret League of Nine; or, A ps, SY tive’s Still Hunt...........+ Saemenn 371 The Haunted Churchyard; or, “Ola ‘king Brady, the Detective, and the Mystery of the Iron Vault... ....s0+++-+--.. by A New York Detective 872 The Broxen Razor; or, The. Strange Story of a sterious Crime... ..by Police Captain Howard 373 “ Saddle-! . the Preacher Detective; or, The ames Boys in'a FIR: snes ».«.by D, W. Stevens Ts me Youngest Detective in New York; or. Work- ing for @ Million, .....-.ss-esere+ce+ «by A. F, Hill 875 The Churchyard Mystery; or. vid Old Sexton's we sebaseceeessese-D¥ A New York Detective 376 An Endless Chase. A True Story of the Will- iams Brotherg.....-...... Rebert Ma 377 The James ae in New ‘Yorks oF, nig ray | 8 gry a eed of be New York eal 378 Ola i lg, vee og o) LPeewosewent or, The “or soitce Captain “Howara 379 Briss aie: or, T. eye ee nee 9 >. Ny 0 380 The Torn Cartoon; or, The Mystery Ae. inte A. F. Hill 881 A Piece of Blotting Paper; or, Ol King. W'ad D Philadelphia.........by A New 08 Detective 382 The Double Shadow; or, ‘The James Boys Baf- be RUBY co s8ssnpenseesaess's -b: 3 . Stevens 383 Prescription No. ‘300; or, ‘The 1 ects as Mistake , hee ts in Howard 384 The Broken Scarfpin; or, ee Wil ONE 0s oy Old Cap Lee 385 The Treasure Trunk; or. Shadowing « New York Diamond Salesman...... by P. T. Raymond 386 Jesse James and Siroc; or, A Detective's Ohase Fora Sang oe pra rape. er ree Ra eae oy 387 The James Boys in on; OF. ng vy and the Car Car pf Gold. ....by A New York Detective 388 Dan Denton, Detective; or, The Crime of CONSEPVALOTY..-- ee eeee eee +s Moy A. FY Hl 389 The James core in Texas; ‘on ws ‘Detective's Thrilling Adven antares, is the Lonp Star Sonia. dD. W. Stevens Williams se Fa ea aor or ‘ ota e of an owesces ese s obag es A. F. Hill oo braun os ea ni cent ee treet ig iv vew Yo anes may ated the ag vpy De W. Stevens nu Klux.... - 304 Mine ve; or, F Hetty an Under- rbetetive; or, Pi “Police Captain Howard 895 P, 0. Box.44; or, Track! me ese stery .. bd 306 The. James Boys and Pinkerton; or, Frank and Jesse as Detect W. Stevens VOB cee cers neenee . PRICE 10 CENTS EACH. ‘ 397 The Bicycle Detective; or, Tracking a Crime on the Wheel..........0s«sss-406 y P, T. Raymond 398 Wesley West, The Californian fone tive; or. A Mystery of the Mines...... .++.by *Noname,’? 399 Down Among the Dead Men; or, A Detective’s Fhe evan Adventures Among Desperate Conn- terfditerB...........000. by Police Captain Howard 400 The { semi Boys Lost, or, The Detective's pe THOUS CAKE, oo 0.00.00 «00s dele deube ee by D. W. Stevens 401 The Man in Gray; or, Running a — Round 402 A oe in Diamonds; or, oi tine. *prad the World,...+-csswvesisss y Ole Ca A New York Detective Afric 403 Fiery Fionny, ‘the ‘Rushing te ih Detective....... by Old Cap Lee 404 ‘——~ James’ Last Shot; or, a by the Ford BOYS. oo. 0 - ei ee tee coesee dees by D. W. Stevens 405 Ralph Rand, the Man With a Secret; or, The ver Detective’s Lile eg Ne Oe 4 Police Captain Howard 406 The Mystic Three; or, The Secret of the Old House on the Rocks.....by A New York Detective 407 Monte. the French Detective, on a Murderer’s Trail; or, In Search of a Man of Mystery...... by Police Captam Howard 408 by? as Brady in Siberia: can, The Secret of the Mm GOd.......-...- by A New York Detective 409 The we of the Band: or, The Surrender of Frank James. .....:..-...++-++5. by D. W. Stevens 410 The James Boys Captured; or, A Young Detect- ive’s Thrilling Cnase..........++. by D. W. Stevens 411 Old phan rady and “ Billy the Kid; or, The tective’s Chase.by A New York Detective 412 The Younger Boys; or, Tne Fiends as the Border y D. W. Stevens 413 The James Boys Tricked; or, A meets Cun- me by D. W. Stevens s ere tee: ér, A Thousand Mile he med i ge Cap Lee 416 rrank Reade, the Inventor, ‘ Onasing James Boys With His Steam Team, A Thrilling Story- From a Lost Diary. 417 Sentenced for Life and The House With 30 Steps; roe ew cae Brady and the Great Peur! Street Whe isaset of by a New York Detective 418 ightning Luke. the Photographer Detective; or. ughi by the Instantaneous Camera by Police Captain ‘Howara 419 The Jemes Hove in Mexico and me eg f Boya in Californ by D. W. Stevens 420 Old King Brady “and the Ford Boys... anne by A New York Detective 421 The James Boys Afloat; or, The bed Adven- tures of a Detective on "the eames 4 We Stevens 422 One Million at pn or,a aciiealin Exciting Chase for a Lost Will..........by Old Cap Darrell 423 Throngh 4 Night; or, The ‘Mail Train Detective’s ne. y Police Captain Howard 424 99 99th Street; or, The aie Without a Door. ' by a New York Detective 425 — 2 2 bb aeons Boys; or, A Detec' “ Chase in Kentucky...by" Db. W. saves 426 The, James Boys Cave, and the James Boys as Train Wreckers.........+.- by D. W. Stevens 427 Old Dodger, the N ¥. Detective. 428 The ism Bay; or, 429 Y guna Bice i mberland....by 430 Tne James Boys in Court and The Jazwes o> League ‘hue p 495 The Death Chair; or, Ti St ofan E Soe eaecurek hg aigstery a 437 Young Marvel, the Won nerd Desperate Struggle for a 438 The James Boys in No “Man's Bandit King’s Last Ride.......- .b 430 The New Orieane Mate: ‘ 440 Old in ere enee eee 442 Mysterious Ike: oF, The Masked —e