Nick Carter Weekly (no. 156) (1898 12 23)

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CK CARTER WEEKLY Issued weekly. Sudseription price $2.50 per year. Entered as second class matter at the N. Y. Post Office by REET & SMITH. Price 5 Cents. j | ‘CAREER Be : Ee we AS THE YOUNG WOMAN THE — H&R CLOAK, NICK’S CURIOSITY WAS AROUSED BY THE SIGHT OF THE JEWEL 7 . b

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ie * A New: story, written specially for the Nick Carter Weekly, and will not appear in any other number. NICK CARTER _ WEEKLY. Entered assording ‘to Act of Congress in the saa oe Seay she: Smith, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, ‘ashingion, D. C, a . he) ; - Isaued weekly. Tee isty ee Prrrt pty el hae ena December 23, 1898. a Si, bi als oe Ps No aie Srreet & BMirn, Publishers. NEW YORK. 298 Williaw 8t., N.Y. 5 Cents y Pee elt §S Si Sm) cera ryN TT A DRIVE AT A FAKE DETECTIVE canal ° | Se ~ By the Author of “NICK CARTER.” P %. s 5 ie ho Sa ee ee : CHAPTER. TI. “And he is in a hurry, for he wants to de- Pee Sebsce cen FROM. LONUON. liver his message and catch the next steamer Pee GAS hoe back for England | “A person to see you, Mr. Carter.” “Quick action, that.” “Very well.” =S35. > “Leaving in forty minutes.” y Nick Carter, arranging some papers at his “Quite* unique, truly. Show in, if you vate desk, nodded to his man-servant. please, the messenger from London!’ said = *Show him in, sir?” Nick Carter. Certainly.” The secret service expert was somewhat: In interested in the lay-out of the moment. Sai Still, it would not have been.in accordance eyes. It was not the way of with his imperturbable nature to be particu- ed servant ‘to waste words. _larly surprised had the Shah of Persia or. the lis hesitating manner, therefore, attracted Khan of Tartary been personally announced. ention of the famous detective. Nick's fame was world-wide, and his serv- ‘is wrong?” inquired Nick, ; ices Were not infrequently enlisted in inter- out of the usual sir, Shat 4g national matters. % ‘is a messenger who says he Cablegrams, personal visits from all kinds ay fronr London especially of distinguished tie clients, wets, cease 4 Carter.” of océasional routine. © eee s 4 he sree ren otra n

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acs a / NICK CARTER WEEKLY. Sars. ’ that a piece of business was on the tapis much i, out of the ordinary. e Z There had been a recent “fad” in vogue with “swell” people of sending letters, pres- ents, and the like, “across the pond,” as if it were a mere journey over the Thames. In such instances, of course, the carrying out of these expensive whims was pure af- fectation. It was a new excitement with people hav- ing plenty of money and time to spare. Nick realized that there was some other — element than mere caprice in the present pro- ceeding. Devoted strictly to business, he doubted if any person—old-time friend or prospective client—would approach, him in this old way unless urgency or extreme secrecy were in- volved i in the transaction. » z So, Nick anticipated some interesting, if not lively, developments as an outcome of his servant’ s announcement. a He brushed his papers to one side and set a full glance upon the person now ushered into the room. ‘The stranger was a young man of about inte. _ He was undersized, but agile, with a shrewd eye and an exceedingly intelligent = Se ee . ae He lifted his cap, which bore no badge. ‘He placed a finger on a button of the long, light, tourist ulster, which enveloped him to the ankles, and ripped the front free to the chin with a single quick movement. = Meneath was exhibited the uniform of his \ 5 ‘Nick, instantly recognized this, together with the badge he had often seen. in the oe Piccadilly, West End,’ in various isitor stowed no more importance of nee if he eee come ies one mile, blank. i “Well, whet ‘ in Strapped with an elastic band to one of the foided faces was a card bearing writing. Strapped with an elastic band to the other folded face was a delivery blank. I Nick glanced at the former; it bore“in | clear, black letters, this address: “Mr. Nicholas Carter, New York. City, United States of America.” ; This, it seemed, must be in the handwriting of the original sender. Below, doubtlessly penciled at the office ws - the messenger service in London, was the dé- _ tective’s private house address. “Sign, che said Nick, spanning the blank. “Yes, sir.’ ; Nick wrote his name in the signature line. “Time, also, if you please,” suggested the messenger, further. | “Humph!” \ Nick glanced at his watch. “9:13 a. m.,” he announced, ae “Can’t you wake it 9 even, sir?” ah. The detective rather emneiainedis, regard-_ = ed this model of preciseness. “You see, I took a wrong street in coming here,” the messenger explained. He was as exact in the formalities as though engaged on a fifteen minutes’ run in- stead of that of fifteen days. “Want to make a fast record,” remarked Nick, noting she time with his pencil, “Always, sir.’ “T see by this blank you are ‘Durkey?’ ” “Yes, sir; No. 17, special.” ‘ “Left London on the twelfth?” “At 7:43 p. m., on twenty minutes’ notice.” “You must be used to this sort of thing.” “I have made St. Petersburg twice, and beat Lord Curzon on.a special to Bombay.” Nick saw that the messenger was an expert in his line, but still a mere machine. The visitor anxiously watched ag clock’s face behind Nick. +e The detective drew free Be card anid to himself. He turned 4 over; the reverse ms we

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The messenger drew out a pocket-knife. It was bladed and handled like the average cket-knife. . ' But as he pressed a spring, from the back there snapped free a small section. “This is the key, sir,” he informed Nick, putting the knife into his hand. “I see that it is a key,” nodded Nick, “and ie clever! Well, my friend, what is the we will show you, sir.” ¢ “Do so. ” The messenger raised his coat sleeve to the elbow. Then he unbottoned a wristband. As” the bared his arm, somewhat above the wrist, Nick discerned a flat bulging object ze fhat fitted it half-way around, like a bandage. - Tt was of steel, but covered with leather, and the encircling strap had a keyhole like a handcuff. “For-valuables and long distances,” ex- nehaieet the messenger front London. ou get it down very fine,” compliment- ed Nick. : Nick at once aiaen the key, and the fold- ing band turned back on a hinge. = The messenger drew off the contrivance. He slipped a slide on the lower side. There was revealed a shallow pocket. In = des eiigsabies done up in oiled silk. ee, eos eel this covering, and brought to light a an It bore the woneees Mr, Nicholas Carter,” th the sender oat entirely with st of money and ‘our cot ited ick. “You. do Foe. ISk: client ot toeetd Se NIOK CARTER WEEKLY. 3 time for me to catch the return steamer, and if you please, I will now depart.” There was system here that even Nick's hospitable spirit would not consent to inter- fere with. He slipped a hand into his pocket, how- ever, and drew out his purse. - “Excuse me,” said the messenger, antici- pating and backing away, “but, really, the service forbids anything like that.” “My friend, you are a jewel of consist- ency!”” complimented Nick. “Thank you, sir.” “Everything in order so far as I am con- cerned?” “Perfectly.” “You can go, then. One minute! The London Central Office address? It may be necessary for me to remember that.” The messenger rattled it off glibly, retreat- ed to the door, made a brief bow, and was gone. Nick Carter sat down at his desk to ex~ amine the letter that had been sent so many thousands of miles by special messenger. CHAPTER Ii. PAYABLE ON DEMAND. “Chick!” Nick Carter devoted three minutes to the inspection of the letter that had so strangely reached him. He knew that his assistant was in the adjoining room, and, opening its door, he now called his name, The young professional was in Nick’s pres- ence instantaneously; and he seated himself opposite, in response to a wave of Nick’s hand. Chick’s keen eye ran over what lay directly in front of his chief, on the desk. There was a letter, a slip of paper, and a folded bank note. “Business?” he asked. “In a way, Chick, I believe,” \ Nick unfolded the note. Chick oun: its 7 termination. _ “A hundred pounds?” he ait an “An advance fee.” sae ates ae ers “From whom?”

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“Known?” ~ “Unknown, except by reputation.” ~ “Do T know him?” “You may recall him, as I have done.” _Nick wheeled in his chair. Eye and hand ran a brief range of the volumes filling a pivot book-stand directly behind him. _ He drew out one. - Tt was filled with memoranda and portraits. “That is the man,” he said, opening at a certain page. 4 ‘Chick shifted the book around so as to af- _ ford a perfect view. - *Randal Liscomb,’” he read, consulting - the picture of a fine-looking man. ee Yes “What was his case?” ts _ “Alleged murder: points?” ~ Chick nodded as he contemplated the pe- rusal of a briefly printed synopsis of the Ran- - dal Liscomb tragedy. ae," brawl, a question of identity, flight, a she murmured—‘the » oid asiaty : Have you got the ee But we are not Sencthat with that. The police handled the affair, dropped af: _ Liscomb supposedly committed suicide.” what have we to do with the case?” s : ” autre ther?” + murmured Chick, expect +r, —r it, > +. i ne : og ge. NICK CARTER WEEKLY. Nick handed the little open slip of paper to his assistant. It was dated two years back, and it read: “Received of Randal Liscomb fifty thou- | sand dollars, in Government bonds, | name of his late wife, in trust.” This was signed, “Nathan Greene.” “Who is Nathan Greene?” inquired Chick. Nick consulted a directory. In his usual» quick way he ran over its pages. “Here we have it,” he said. Chick scanned above his finger, and Fea marked: “A banker, in a small way, up town,” “Tt seems So,” assented Nick. “Look at the other side, Chick.” _ The latter did this. = “An indorsement?” he remarked. This read: | “Mr. Nathan Greene will deliv er the prop- erty herein named to my daus ter, Viola Liscomb, on demand.” siren Tt was signed by Nick’s foréign: client." “And the letter?” inquired Chick. <r “It is brief—to the point.’ we “What does it say?” “Tt is an appeal.” From a criminal?” “No; from a dying man—avowedly,. too, an innocent one. ‘ Liscomb says he will not live a week, his physician informs him. Aa alién, with a great crime standing to his charge, he asks me to let the impression con- _ tinue that it was really he who committed suicide froma an ocean steamer a year anda half ago.” “He does not seek to asia: or. explain his crime?” i “He claims to’ have ieee the victim ‘of. a plot no power can unmask—it is too late, h asserts. He aap _ wishes his daughter cared for,” — Bua hence send her the onde “He would rather she hore ht hir “Tsee. Then why not to th “Greene?” ee, in the =e ‘ ee ae Pa ae « ue <=

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+ 5 s ae ,. — 2. :F Py ke tare ey ae = “I do not want his eres pounds; L Il turn the money over to the oes % ‘e Becsrisinly.” —=— ~~ “He asks you to see “that she receives those bonds.”-— “That is it.” ‘The man probably tells the fee he is” dying, or dead. . It would be ; difficult t@ trace him. He planned a sure way hing me, safely, rapidly. It is like a st from another world—I will do what He gives the address of his daugh- ~ “What is, it?” —~ ie There? : Nick penciled on a card, and passed it to “his assistant. Chick read the address. ~ *You wish me to notify this young lady?” “Ee asked. “To call upon me:” “Nothing more?” : explain to her.” ‘hick bowed, understandingly. Mto-day: 2” he asked. “At once, if practicable.” . “4 will make it so.” == Names filed away the letter he had ‘received. = He then resumed work on some routine business that had L occupied his attention when the interruption came. There was always” an abundance of busi- ness to which he could give, his services, and n ued Daag. for some eens} hours - 1 experienced some ‘difficulty removals i in a vear oe me: a Chick. It ‘stormed his coe 2 of locality. SS > PTs spf — NICK caltiien WEEKLY. $ 5 ~ Chick had found her at last; she would call ~ upon Nick some time around two o'clock. ->~_ At that-hour, promptly, the detective made it a point to’ return to home headquarters. He had been seated but a few moments when he heard his servant admit somebody to the house. ‘ The servant*had been jnatritted: so Nick, before he looked up, anticipated who it was that was ushered into the room. A woman of about twenty, her features — concealed by a long, hooded waterproof, ad- vanced slowly, timorously. . Nick regarded her with curiosity as she threw back this covering. He noticed a pale, beautiful and impressive face, and saw that the visitor had a small ‘box, partially concealed by the folds of the cloak. “This is—Mr. Carter?” Nick arose, and bowed reassuringly. “A young gentleman ” began the young lady, and paused, her voice trembling. “You seem weary,” suggested Nick, prof- fering a chair. “Ves, I have walked a long way,” mur- mured the girl, gratefully sinking to the seat. “You are Miss Viola Liscomb, I appre- hend?” said Nick. “Yes, Mr. Carter.” Her eyes scanned his face with great earnestness. “Your messenger had trouble in finding me,” she ‘went on.” I have—have been obliged to make a good many removals since occupy ing | the house to which he was origi nally sent.” > “It was your old home?” ! Vea answered, the girl, briefly, and tears came to her eyes. Then. suddenly, she fixed an anxious look | ‘upon her host, and said: ' “Mr. Carter, I know who you are.” “Indeed?” _ es “T mean that z know that you are of the i detective, service.” ise I fear!” : sa _ “What? ; “You say that rather ae Miss Lis: ee

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: s NICK CARTER WEEKLY. “For yourself?” “For—my father. Mr. Carter, is it because of him that you have sent for me?” “In part, but it indicates no trouble for ‘him, ‘poor soul!” “Poor soul, indeed!” niursaured his daugh- ter, her lips quivering, “for he died dis- tracted,’ bereft, unable to clear the name upon which others had placed He stain of shame!” of The accepted assumption that Randal Lis- = comb had committed suicide helped ,Nick = over a. disagreeable point in the interview. --—- “Inndcent or guilty?” he said. “Oh, he was certainly innocent! Do I not _ know my father?” “Tt is not of the past, but the prenestt: that IT must speak,” said Nick. ae “The present—whaf can it hold for me?” “ eae hipe.” said Nick, with cheerfulness. “To be es clear, there has eed into my hands a paper concerning you.” “Concerning me?” : ies is, in fact, an order on a local bank, or _ banker, for some money.” __ “For money?’ _ “Rightfully yours; = as mother.” _ The girl looked bewildered, ~ “Tt is for the sum of fifty thousand dol- 7 sei”: Le Nick had not counted on the effect of his it belonged to your His beautiful visitor was. greatly excited. He attributed her agitation to a natural ; "But instantly. he Miecerarec how he baa r ronged a 1a ne Eieeencss of which pierced en “Considerable, my dear young lady, I~ _ as she ex¢laimed in an em-— = "y 3 7 tone, “that I have used all I had, all I could earn, to accomplish that vindication.” “You mean you have sought to investigate _ the circumstances. surrounding your father’s )# connection with the killing of a man?” i “Yes, and his most mysterious flight, as Wwe]l as his silence to me! to me, whem le so loved!” : “T have instructions,” said Nick, “to turn | “over to you an order for this fifty thousand . dollars. It is the same as moneyGovern- ment bonds,” “Instructions from whom? Liscomb. “Your father originally possessed the” or- | der.” “But—after all this time!” “TI have just accidentally discovered it,” said Nick. “Must I be content with that explanation?” “Yes,” said Nick, definitely. The young lady sighed, even amid her 9? inquired Miss | »/ good fortune. ; “The fifty thousand dollars are in a ee bank,” continued Nick. ae “The treasure has been there all the time?” inquired Miss Liscomb. “T believe so.” “Then I should like to ask the people in charge of it—if it wag rightfully mine.” — “Ves, surely so.” “T should like to ask these bank people a — pertinent question, why I was not notified of the fact.” “It would not be ie said “Nick. “When will it suit your convenience, Miss Liscomb, to go for the money?” “Tam at leisure always.” “Now?” “Will that suit you?” — “Perfectly.” _ “Then at once, yes, : “J will get a cab,” said Tie snd started for the door. “Ts it far?” inquired the young gladly. “Some distance uptown.” bee “A bank, you said?” ~ a

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¥ * De aie “Tt is Nathan Greene.” E _ Miss Viola Liscomb started at these words, and shivered as though struck by a chilling blast. spats 4 yy ey __ CHAPTER IIL. 7 AT.THE BANK. Nick Carter at once saw that he had struck ; a note in alluding to Mr. Nathan Greene. ~ The girl’s face had whitened and hard- ened; a certain severity had succeeded a first sentiment of repugnance. Nick. © - “Yes, I know him,” coldly. “He was an acquaintance—a friend?” “He pretended to be my father’s friend.” “Only pretended?” 7 “Yes I knew that my father had dealings’ i im. When the blow came, in my | agony and helplessness, I went to him.” “For assistance?” “For advice—for counsel.’ ~ “And he?” Whe girl hesitated and flushed. Then she said, reluctantly: | “He asked me to marry him.” _ Nick was silent, but thoughtful. f “And you?” The young lady’s eyes flashed. “Can you ask me that?” knowing anything about the man y, I do ask it,” said Nick. oe refused him, for I was outraged at the roposal coming at such a time. He was sulting; he told me that 1 ‘no ‘one replied the girl, he poakt secure away ee “NICK CARTER WEEKLY. “You! know ‘Mr. Nathan Greene: ?” inquired glanc | ea ne pees Something tragic ing into the girl’s fa This expression was fine and noble. She did not speak, but Nick read what was going on under the surface. “I will go with you at once, Mr. Carter,” she said, calmly, after. a brief peridd of-si- lence. “Then “Then?” inquired Nick. “T should like to tell you something.” “Concerning your father?” “Concerning his enemies, of whom this man Greene must be one. I suspected it, but I never knew it until now.” Nick left the room to speak to his servant. The hand resting on his arm as he led its owner to the conveyance waiting at the curb was like ice, marble. Nick knew that he was doing something more than merely endeavoring to secure for this girl her: rights. “The far-seeing detective éxpert discerned in the dim distance the mazes of an old crime resurrected. When the conveyance reached the address that the directory had given, Nick found it to be quite a pretentious private bank. An old but substantial residence, recon- structed for business purposes, was wholly occupied by the institution over which Mr. Nathan Greene presided. The girl kept her face concealed “hee the curious eyes of clerks, who were ranged be- hind various desks as Nick led her through the counting room. The detective proceeded towards an apart- ment the door of which bore the name of the head of the institution, and the word “Pri- vate.” “Beg pardon, sir,” said a brisk, nioties faced man, blocking the way by stepping in Nick’s path, “but you wish to see——” “Mr. Nathan Greene.” “Tt is after banking hours.” “Mr. Greene will probably see us, for all that, if you will mention my name?” Sp2, “Oh, yes; your name?” slowly com- “Mr. Nicholas Carter.” bora me that m Mate i ae man quailed before Nick's penetrating “Just so! just so!” h muttered,

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~ The speaker Bag ast the private door- Way eT When he returned it was to bow, obsequi- ously-and wave the visitors to the blockaded sanctum. _ The girl paused in the shadow. The florid- faced man who sat at a desk trying to look consequential was mere tissue paper to _~ shrewd Nick Carter. ere. twinkling the detective traced visible » = 4 _ anxiety in the face and manner of this sinis~ ter-eyed individual. ““You wished to see me, Mr.—Mr.—” be- _ gan the banker, rising slowly. _Latfes—=Nicholas Carter.” “And about—— _ “This young lady’s business affairs.” Greene had not before noticed Nick’s com- ‘ panion. z “Why, yes,” he said, wonderingly, “ and es her business?” . x “She will tell you of that herself.” ‘ 5 = _ Nick made way for his fair charge to ad- _ vance. She did so, sdropping back the folds of _. cher hood and standing completely revealed = ae _ as to her features. ox ~“Why—why— ~ Beginning with: his face blanching; Sreane” ss 5 : Sig with a smile which * was. forced, sickly, - ew a x apprehensive, n managed | - summon suinctent ‘composure to e girl paid no heed to this invitation. mply placed upon the desk before the the order that Nick had given to her. "i Greene,” she said, in clear, calm Jena to obtain those bonds. S He dropped back to Bia chair, and = or a “Be seated, pray.” ss ‘Greene. } : ; a a NICK CARTER WEEKLY. ‘ : “IT would like to know, Miss Lastomb; how this order came to your” ; “T- received it,” replied the young ey icily, “from this gentleman.” “Ves,” said Nick, “I gave-it to her.” . “And you, sir?” ~ ‘SF received it,” answered Nick, steadily, “from the person whose signature it bears.” “May I ask when?” ane “a No! had ke 4 The banker darted a wild look at athe sphinx-faced speaker. This was not a visit. an attack! In that pale, determined face of the girl, | in the inscrutable eye of the great detective, this man recognized—enemies. He took a long breath. Nick mentally compared his momentary desperation to that of a hunted t rat at bay. “Very well,” said Greene, suddenly assum-_ ing an air of ‘business: “this is all regular, of course—but so unexpected.” f “I fancy that,” observed Nick. ~ “Mr. Greene,” broke in the girl, in a qua- vering tone, “why was 1 not advised concern ~ ing this money—these bonds?” “Why should you be?” “They were my property.” lt was an invasion— Ane ty — “Hardly—a client deposited them.” “My father!” — “I obeyed his instructions—to keep them safely, till he ordered their ‘disposition.” “You have that order now,” interrupted | Nick, Draaqueli sir!” “Certainly. The banker brought his hand down upon a bell.” 3 = A- young ‘clerk, with a pen stuck behind his ear, appeared. - if Z “Tell Mr. Ransom to see this y way,” said Pipes this property, | “4 ne Y= aes see 4 ae cies ‘sir?

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“The cichier has exclusive oR of ie urities you wish to withdraw.” “What do you mean?” demanded: Nick. “Why, what I say,” answered Greene. “They are kept, with others, in a safe to which he e only has the key. = . “When will he return?” “Po-morrow, morning, E think. he said.” aie Greene,” observed Nick, in a meas- : and significant ways “we will call here to-morrow.” = z Very, well : aera Ae in the morning.” “At el even n be it.” _ “And it is imperative that we aholaid then _ have this property. You agree to that?” “Most certainly.” : “In-case your cashier is delayed———”’ “T will telegraph him to send thie key, or apse under any circumstances.” Passed from the room, ipe Shy upon his. afm, 2 ssa i He noticed that her hand comic bin calito a she was in a state of high ‘ anervouastes spice: til Pike regained the cab. Then Nick said: = -“T will send you to your home, Miss Lis- comb, and L Will call for you at about eleven - o'clock t to-morrow morning.” ~ His « companion’ $ response came in a quick, fluttering gasp. =~ r. Carter,” ‘she said, “we are going to trotible!” “Trouble? wpe Nick, calmly. “About ’ constantly for two long years.” —_ night?” inquired Nick. of the detective with a manifest token of con- “NICK CARTER WEEKLY. ; z ag “Some « one came after him upon that — “Yes:? “Do-you know who it was?” “Not his real name—but his face, I sa that, and for that face | have been seekin Miss Viola Liscomb fumblied at the box she had carried with her ‘since arriving at the detective’s home. “I want you to take this, Mr. fee said, pressing it upon him. “It is something referring to your father’s disappearance?” “It is my account of all that was peculiar and suspicious that occurred for the few days # preceding his trouble.” gel aa attenevey, look over your state- ment.” “And some letters he received.” Nick bowed, to include these as well. “And the picture, the photograph, of the mysterious man who twice visited my father at midnight, and who went away with Him the evening that he finally disappeared.” ~ “Ah! you have that?” observed Nick witi surprise. ae 2s ; “And you tell me you have been looking = for this man ever since?” so? “Ever since, and constantly.” Nick took possession of the box. ; “T will leave you here,” he said, as the cab reached a corner convenient to his home. “I will look over the contents of this box, and I ioe will call for aEe to-morrow morning at about eleven.” The girl put out her hand suddenly, as if to express ee. -anxiety or enforce her recent fears. 2 Quietly, haw ever, she simply touched that = she a) ONhy Be 8 and gratitude. Sepa se Nick went. straight home. —— ae young aie came?” he seta are “Oh, aa yonye nodded Nick. Ee

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“An!” “To-morrow—cashier temporarily absent.” a see,” ‘Nick had placed the box on the desk, and Chick regarded it furtively. “The young lady gave me this, “What is it?” a 3g a photograph, concerning her fa- _ther’s case.’ . “Photograph of whom?” “The man she last saw with her father— who accompanied him from his home the night of his disappearance.” E “That ought to amount to something as a = starting point.” ae “Tf the party could be found, yes.” : “Can’t he be found?” “Miss Liscomb has been looking for him these past two years.” “And has got no sight of him?” “It seems not.” ae box. was not locked. Nick opened the was filled with letters and papers almost to he op. _ On the top of all these rested a photo- re face down. Nick turned it face up. _~ Immediate recognition shone in the detect- -ive’s steady eyes. He passed the picture over to Chick. ” said Nick. _ ing impetuously to his feet. “Know him, Chick?” eet course I 38 exCjatied Nick Carter’ s | ere a IV. ’ Got. A FAKE DETECTIVE, 10 NICK CARTER WEEKLY. | } “The deuce!” exclaimed the latter, _jump- “and letters in the box just given into hisipoe _ he was ready and waiting for information. = rs graph connects. bathe eens “She says so.” “Why! we handled the fellow in public not six months since.” “Evidently she did not know of that, Chick.” “He was sent up for a brief term.” “Very brief. He is the person who fur- nished the medicine that temporarily blinded a Witness in the pent car murder case, which we worked up.” “For which Aiden Lee was sent to Sing { Sing?” “Exactly.” “And his son hanged on the gallows?” EY es “The doctor “Alias ‘the ar aéiion’ —— “And alias Purdue. He was is con- cerned in the affair as the aed of the pretty 4 heiress, Miss Lura Mason.” “The jury confined its attention mainly to ‘the principal culprit, Chick; the doctor was let off with a tae) days’ sentence of local imprisonment.” “Then he is only a few weeks on the town.” “Tf hc has not left it.” “We ought to be able to find him easily.” “Oh! I am assured I can locate him, no matter where he is.” , Nick spoke in a way that convinced Chick that he had some definite ideas COMET Bang. his whereabouts. “Let us see first, however, if we care to look him up at all,” suggested Nick. ; The detective ran hastily over the papers — session by Miss Viola Liscomb. Chick was silent during the inspection, but — Nick scanned the last inclosure. “What s it tell?” asked Chick. ia “Nothing direct. It looks as though. for’ 4 the space of several weeks previous to his — disappearance Liscomb was being drawn un der the influence of this mae if the phe ! | zl -

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“Then you intend to find out!” “Chick, I think I shall find out,” assented Nick, thoughtfully. “I am interested in this ) girl; it may ‘a matter of professional duty.” “Will you look up Liscomb in England?” ON, til I am satisfied that he ought not to Sallitected im ns tap sounded on the door. In a second k's desk was cleared of box and papers. , As the door opened the eyes of the detect- ive were turned thither. A str ‘was shown in; Chick looked in ap d way at the intruder. ‘His dress, his beard atid his mysterious ac- Ss were of an exaggerated type and at once : gesting an effort at disguise. - “Who is this?” asked Nick. “T wish to see yan, Mr. Carter.’ ni am here, sir.” t = ivate—strictly.” The new-comer stipied foryard as if tread- on eggs. He directed ‘suspicious eyes at curtains,” book-tases, doors and windows in an amus- ingly mysterious manner. q sat down, first casting a searching ! nder the desk—even into the waste- cet. Nick had eyed him etic just once— he was strictly attentive. dub led,” he suggested. NICK CARTER WEEKLY. ed! I oe honows. ee meet-_ i ape Le nae it, Mr. Carter, shrewd as you are—but you and I stood face to face not an hour since!” \ instituti ‘me?’ u eyebrow has.come unglued, and your left whisker is slightly awry.” f The detective’s visitor adjusted the stray- ing eyebrow and the unsteady whisker. He sank back in his chair with great as- surance after this performance. “We professionals can’t be too particular,” he observed, sapiently. “Nor too’quick in getting down to busi- ness,” hinted Nick. “Ah! that’s so. Well, Mr. ES I have come to see you a “Thanks!” “In the interest of a client.” “You said you were a detective.” fY es” “From—Central?” “Well—no.” “What line, then?” “Bank.” “Oh! you area bank detective?” “That is it. Now, - you would never think “Why, yes,” said Nick, “I remember.” “Eh!” exclaimed the other, with a start. Nick was coolly setting some pens in or- der. » F “T said I remember.” “You remember!” muttered his visitor, striking an attitude, aghast. “Certainly.” “You—remember!” “Don’t I say so, man!” *You-do, babseP => Nt was in the Eereriee copa of the Grrene up town.” _ Well” “You are the person who challenged a right to enter.” ir “Till I knew wag you were. You recognize _ “Certainly. And you bitaaed me ‘up, “dis guised——” Rmeet : Not © fool you.” : “You couldn’t do that.’ Se ee Pe “Ts ee it, and 1 never thoug! trying. why this disguise?”

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ie a ae goa =. i: Bas eS ae ~ “To conceal my real looks; it isn’t prudent - to be known in our particular calling by ev- ery Tom, Dick and Harry.” “My time is limited,” said Nick, with ‘a glance at his watch. ‘““You have business with me?” “Important.” “Name it.” ; ®* “Well, then, as I said, I am a bank de- tective.” _ “Experienced, I suppose.” + __ *Why—yes. -I was a year at the Produce _. Exchange Bank, and I did-some individual _ work on one or two big forgery cases.’ ~ - “Purn upsmuch?” : ~ “Too deep for me.’ oe “Ah!” peer -. “Lately I have been associated with the fm - Greene establishment.” __ “How long?” » “Well, so far, only a day or two.” “TI see—routine duty.” s - “Oh, no!” ae, NG big forgeries there, I hope?” ; inqunld, - Nick, Well, almost as bad.” “Indeed!” ‘ “Yes—tet me tell you.” “Do so. i i ‘The fake detective’ steadied himself for his, “disclosure. — __ This gave Nick tint to ‘think. . sons to the status of his visitor, that the su- az x ~ - with no. record or real official Standing. e had sawn drawn a mags s he clearly evidenced. g Nathan Greene was Seta of Tope ’s fac NICK CARTER WEEKLY. See. ; | . itor, ee tact : k saw thet he ¥ was an {irresponsible per- d satis moun in Pas pres- ne tective at present, and Be. oe a “Well?” “I’m not watching the bank. ~ “Oh;-1 thought 5 you. were.’ ‘Nes? “What are you watching, then?” “Greene.” “What for?” “That’s what I was hired to do.” “By whom?” “Greene, himself.” a “Can’t you be a little more explicit?» see") “Why, I mean that I am guarding him.” “Why did you not say'so in the first place?” “Well, that’s what Tam doing.” Ber “Does he need guarding?” “I guess he does.” — “From whom—enemies?” “No—cranks.” “They bother him?” “They have. Why! one fellow has been waiting: him threatening letters for a ates “And you have nailed him, I suppose?” “No, but I expect to. Another covered him with a revolver in an alley near his home. and wildly demanded half his fortune to float a new speculation.” “Did he get it?” - “Hardly!” 4 — _ “You were néar?”” * “Near and vigilant” _ “Did you get him?” “Why—no, I didn’t,” confessed Nick's vis— “T see,” said Nick. you tell me all this?” -“T want you to help me.’ ae “Oh, you do?” said Nick. “Yes—I want to make a record. When 1 ran against you ane and got tae ed : : +} “Now, then, an do YY “Hm? “ ee es | toagit “Here i is the chance of my I life-- = time.’ I hunted’ Sad "p See qui

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ne pats but he had the audacity to /pian to get into his company through a ruse, Bnd hope to incidentally gain his confidence. “Gaba Nick believed, was back ‘of the scheme, but he could not at present conjec- ture wherefore. “Tame busy to-night,” mom reflection. m. } to-morrow night?” — et [ hardly think I can help you.” ~ “Oh, yes, you can!" “Very well—I will consider i it. I shall be at ‘the bank to-morrow morning.” “And we'll 1 make an appointment?” = “[ shall one so, Mr. Carter!” The detective sat reflecting deeply for some ents after his’ visitor had left him. A scheme was on the books—in behalf of Mr ‘Banker Greene. _ “What it is,” Nick said to himself, calmly, ; lop at my next visit to the bank. = said Nick, aiter 4 He recited the wet oy mig look up this fellow Yés:” “And see that the young lady is safe and comfortable.” ; : , Chick nodded assentingly. vill be back here to-morrow morning in to the bank ‘with Miss Liscomb.” sa NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 3B fee e%?*~ CHAPTER V: IN SING SING PRISON. “It strikes me as a dubious proposition, Mr. Carter!” The speaker was the chief warden of that great prison hive—Sing Sing. “T shall make a-trial, under the circum- stances, warden,” remarked the secret ser- vice man. Nick had lost no time in taking the first train from New York City up the line of the New York Central. His plan had been to force a commonplace : interview with the man he had“locked up in- that institution for life for the commission of a hideous crime. ' Arrived, however, Nick had learned some facts that at once modified his original ‘scheme. = ‘ “ Now he was discussing his new idea with an interested and accommodating com- -panion. There was little in the way of co-tieration that Nick could not command from his old friend and enthusiastic admirer, the warden. “Your game won't work,” bluntly predict- ed the latter. “Why won't it?” demanded Nick. = “NO. 9,327 is a wary man.’ a3 “Aiden Lee may be’ wary, oe I think T- know how to fetch him.” ~ 3 “You generally succeed in ha you un- *5 dertake, but——” , fiers “Go over what you sie told nié about his ; cellmate,” directed Nick. wet eae “His name is Tyson.” ee “And he poet closed a three years’ sei- tenve?”’ ‘ “At midnight.” “Lee Knows: this?” - “Of course.” “Tyson has been his cellmate?” “For the last ye days. ‘And T: ra

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a . be Lee 14 NICK CARTER WEEKLY. “When Tyson is through with the deputy let me interview him?” “All right.” “Then stow him where he will be out of the way till morning.” “That is easy.” “Give me ten minutes to study him, the services of the prison barber for five, a suit of stripes, and. “You will take his place with his cellmate?”’ “That is my plan. What time is the order for cell lights out?” “Eight sharp, this month.” “At one minute after eight let Faas re- turn to his cell.” “T see—yourself.” Ein “Precisely.” -__- The warden left Nick. In the course of a few minutes he re- turned. A convict accompanied se The latter lacked uneasily and vaguely at the detective, as the warden said: we “ron Bhs gentleman wishes to ask you a few questions.” Then he left the two to themselves. =< 4T- am not personally interested in you— no old charge to Spring on you when you step outside here in the morning,” assured Nick, by way of preface. _. The convict looked relieved. _ “What is it that you want, sir?” ye se wish you to tell me, in detail, all that you know about your last cellmate.” “Tt ig is not much; he is the most close- outhed chum I ever struck.” line that will interest me.” “What's: the me sir?” r “He may have let something drop along a- desultory comments on this theme. Nick let him talk. There was little grain among the chaff, but one kernel was treasure for the gifted expert, who made of a hint}. oft-times what most men could not evolve from a volume of plain direction. s Nick turned the convict over to t. war-} den, went with him to hospital quarters = ; Convict Tyson rambled off into a series of had a private seance with the barber there. Then he devoted a few minutes in the warden’s own room to his private exigetic case, containing in small compass the com- plete outfit of a well-equipped actor’s dress- — ing table. . It was exactly two minutes of eight when Nick Carter, the detective, was finally trans- formed into Tyson, the convict. The warden looked both surprised and ad- miring. “We'll try it on the guard,” he said. “If that shrewd individual does not spot you, Y will. call yon the slickest character ast existence.” “I shall pass muster,” sied Nick. ; He did so. When the guard came after him he swung his keys in his usual manda- tory fashion. His glance never detected an imposition. Nick had to pass as many as eens 3 = doors down the tier balcony. The lights in these had been just shut off | —the outside illumination was, therefore, } more clear by contrast. The detective felt that the eyes of 1 than one criminal who knew him personal were upon him.‘ a confidently prophe- 143 He kept his face as far as Pe critical inspection. Nick f srfectly secure and sanguine as a door swung open and he made "seedy glide ovef its threshold. He noticed a form oe ae the ious bunk 7 in the cell. fs

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Nick was very well aware that its occupan* was wide awake. In addition, his cellmate was watching his “movements, for Nick caught the glint. of keen, beady eyes. . Nick had ‘ “prepared” that jacket. He ‘Picked out some stitches in the inside lin- in ae removing the patch these held in place he brought to light a creased piece of ~ Nick slanted this toward the light which penetrated the grating, without himself com- ing within its direct range. He pored over the fragment of paper, chuckled, folded it up and slapped his knee “Hello! you aw wake?” retorted Nick. He feigned alarm and confusion, and made a great Pam at aad the fragment. of sense oes» will capes = “Ves, it will!” “Obvad forgot—you’ re booked clear through, ain’t you?” Nick could hear Aiden Lee grind his \ vat ber you so long?” Lee asked, iter “On! ‘receipting and rigmarole of that sort. Then, the warden has advice to give and the chaplain consolation—the reg- th that they put you through here k sat. converse in those de ‘eee by the re- 0 ee ghee ee NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 1B f ‘ f a _ nearly a million and a half.” “What kind?” Nick ventured a sly laugh. “Banking!” “Ah! How I envy you. Your enterprise needs capital, does it?” “A little. I think I can find a backer.” “You want a backer?” “Positively necessary!” “What then?” “T’ll show my partner a famous building.’ “Bank, I suppose?” “You’re good at guessing.” “Old game; cracking a place you’ve dreamed of so often here that you imagine it’s easy—till you find out!” “New game; only a blow Pipe, and lots of time to work it in.” Lee sat up erect. His curiosity and his natural criminal instincts got the better of his usual reticence. “You're rather interesting,” he observed. “The lay-out is, at any rate!” “Seems to be.” : “Look there,” said Nick, and he half- opened the folded piece of paper he had traced and crinkled and soiled, for fecha in - the warden’s office. “A lot of lines and dots?” “Every one of them good for a thousand) dollars.” “ * “You don’t say so?” 2; “T'd just as soon tell ee cape ’re safe not to break a¢ross my trail.’ = “That’s sure, curse it! Oh! that I had your a2 chance!” Ee Tepe ae as I was saying, beforeI got in here was for a spell. working on the contract of a new building.” “Real work?” _ oe “Well, I was isboring for a purpose—me 7, and my rivet man.” cog “A pal?” ‘ “Distinctly.” “Then some one else knows your secret?” “No—he’s dead. We sealed the floor of - the vaults, under a space to be used by a: ‘bank that carries an average ee

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= % “That floor is made of steel slabs, all “But the rivet bees lead?” “Precisely.” _ “AM you haye to do is to melt em?” ~ “Yes, ” _ “And the floor cases “With something else!” “And your pee of paper there is a dia- gram?” “That's it.” ‘Lee turned on his bunk with a_ restless ; ae and a groan. “Tt’s torture!” he whined. es “What is?” “Being shut up: here with such alten chances afloat!” ‘: “Would you stake me if you were out?” i “Would 1?” ; - “Could you?” : ie “Could 1!" a > There was another period of silence. in g through that wicked brain of Aiden Lee, a ‘natural- born criminal. : — Nick was waking up those thoughts, with i purpose; he now deftly led his victim on. “Tr ves ie a month of leisure time to. in- “cellar to hire. Then you have to “ent into _ the one under. the bank.” _ “It’s the easiest lay-out F ever heard of.” = “And the job might have come. off three ye: ago, if I hadn't muratied with other eS Ae en ae him; it isn’ 7. hs . ey “i Ton ere ° NICK CAR’ TER WEEKLY. Nick could fancy the vivid thoughts drift... ‘perketingy might realize what gratitude é means.” : ; “Go on,” enticed Nick. "I have to know my man hefore i trust e's lots of | “You ought to be willing to do a good ded | for a man who would risk that amount!” “T would.” “Not half?” ~“Yes—even half.” . “Flow about a silent partner?” “What o you mean?” “A fellow who stays in the background. “That would be satisfactory.” “Suppose I furnish the cash now?” “Don't josh me!” ~ “T'm not.” _“Flow can you furnish five hundred mt lars?” “Because I've got it.” Nick acted highly skeptical. “Not in here—not in this cell, of course,’ pursued. Lee... “Ah!” “But outside. Look here—I'm hopelesst I’ve changed» my ideas about penis and fidelity, and all that” bisa Tt makes a man blue—this life Tere confess.” “However, one like you, knowing the exdi “Suppose I stake you, and you did the jo and come off successful with the stuff.” “Wouldn't I think of’you first Hiagk “Would you?” : at “Could T help doing so?” “Would | you think of me far eno ugh to de} vote a good big portion of ae nowey buying me out of this hole?” ‘=< “Yes, T wom. aes “Tt's a res lie: is?”

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dea He covered the sheet rapidly; he folded it Study that out in daylight,” he said, je een d it to Nick. “A letter to some one?” - the gees : latter steered him against the proprietor. ees Se pee rca ro: sy NICK CARTER WEEKLY. Strat 2 d \ ond when Nick Carter closed his unique in- terview in the cell at Sing Sing prison. One hour afterwards the detective was a free man, and before midnight he was back in New York City. Nick promptly made himself aware of the contents of the letter that Lee had intrusted to him in his prison cell. Its directions were explicit—the infantous Dr. Purdue was accessible only to chosen friends, it seemed, and then through an in- volved and indirect process. Nick proceeded first to his own home; he clearly determined what he expected to make out of the doctor. Thére was a mystery concealing the real events attending the disappearance of Ran- dal Liscomb, vague even to the detective. This man, Purdue, could certainly throw considerable light upon the same, if he chose. He would never choose voluntarily, how- ever, for the disclosure would ‘incriminate himself. He could not be taken By the throat, nor scared into a confession. He had paid the penalty of his recent crim- inal acts to the full, and he was a giant in strength and a man possessed of a nerve like steel. But his isolation was against him. “The man is up to something,” Nick practically. how to get a purchase on him. At four o'clock the next morning Nick en- Te a mused “T shall have to find out tered one of the darkest, PESTS streets — in New York City. o> - “It was with some difficulty that he passed the portals. of the place to which the letter written by Lee had directed him. : This was an unlicensed groggery i in the “rear of a Chinese laundry, on Pell street, kept open all night to give refuge to. ae 5 lowest grade of night-hawks. Nick had his role set for him by the letter. a, He made application to the bartender; A i ‘ post to the rag puile ir

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ip Ee a ee Fe “a4 ~ ¥5 => J : When a little later Nick was shown into a ‘dark, low room up under the eaves of the building he did not recognize his host at once. Dr. Purdue had lost, or rather modified, his personality to a considerable degree since Niek had last seen him. Those fierce, keen, black eyes, however, ne could not change. Nor could he conceal the abnormally thick and hairy wrists in which lurked an ox-like power which had won him the sobriquet of = “the strength-demon.” : “Who are you?” he demanded, in tones of surly suspicion, as Nick confronted him, “IT was Tyson, convict No. 7,354, at Sing Sing, last night.” “Oh! were you?” “No. 9,327 sent me to you. I suppose you know who that is?” “Yes, I know,” admitted Purdue. Nick saw that the man was going over ___—s-points he very well understood, to gain time : to study his visitor. aS With satisfaction thé detective noted that his bold, careless way, and his incomparable disguise, had carried him through. Purdue locked the door on him, with the Sie “words: on _ “Make yourself at home.” “You are too good!” f “Lee wauts five hundred dollars.” = atts me that wants it.” J ee. _ “The same thing.” Ms 5: “Can Lee—can I—have it: al Certainly.” ‘And until then?” Sab . Purdue led Nick into another room. Hepanet around it in an impressive kind ofaway. _ _ “There's sa bed, there’ 8 cigars, there’s whis- is is eal after ae Seek ob- Nick, ‘ it 18 , . : NICK CARTER WEEKLY. tory with a key, and a padlock in addition. % “Oh! I just asked.” “Don’t ask questions here, You're ti first man admitted to my den for a long spe I can tell you.”’ “T feel the honor?” “I admit you only because you come from Lee. When you want breakfast, you. se that shaft?” “Tt’s a shaft, eh?” “A dumb-waiter is there. Write you ne€ds on a slip of paper and drop the rope you'll get the best on earth.” “T’d like to live here regularly,” said Nick “T’'m going into this room,” continued Purdue, moving to a side door. “This is laboratory, my private premises. When I'uf here, don. t look in; and when I’m gone, don’ go in.’ “Why should I?” “Or there will be trouble.” ~ _. 'm warned!” nodded Nick, coolly light) ing a cigar, elevating his feet on a table, and picking up a newspaper to read. There was nothing in the three apartmen i of which Nick had free range that afforde any particular interest to the detective. ‘ Behind the closed and locked door Nici, could hear his host tinkering at something. >, Naturally, he was curious to know what if. might be. No opportunity was afforded of looki into the room, however. “ The doctor remained closely closeted some three hours. When he came out, he threw himself on 4 lounge in the large outer room and Ba: te sleep. It was nine o’clock when he roused up. He tidied his apparel sofmewhat, went i the laboratory again, and camé out with | ‘hi coat buttonéd well around him. ¢ outlines of some bat of Nicer jects in various inside pockets. The doctor secured the door of his labora- “Tam going away,” hea “All right,” nodded his guest. Og me ow -

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shting another cigar. “You will be back “Close on twelve.” “With the money?” ' “Have no fear on that score. I shall have loney to burn when I come back!” Bevick wished to follow this man. His ysterious proceedings in the adjacent partment, his suspiciously bulging pockets, $ manner and words, all influenced the de- tve of some grand coup. ET he hall door was locked and padlocked N the outside. y: . a ick’s eyes had been useful to him, how- ever, during his few hours’ sojourn in the ce. 4 He had anticipated a good deal, and had ovided for all kinds of exigencies. » The windows of one room had been ob- €cts of some study and investigation. s Nick heard the doctor’s footsteps de- : the stairs, Meg eR ard of the win- ’ up ina jiffy, closed it, made a fh to an adjoining window frame, swung th to a little balcony andthrough an opening, with no sash at all, and dropped up pon the floor of a building the doctor had ust passed. = In thirty seconds Nick had reached the str st; in sixty he had started on a cautious di 1adow of Purdue. The doctor walked on like a man with his ad full of business. is absorbed manner facilitated a Mase , and Nick had no intention of losing r : crowded streets. the doctor finally abruptly crossed a turn ote an igiereecting ghfare directly opposi way across, the edoctor tuned he had his mind. _ ten steps oe would ber him. Sctive to the belief that Purdue was on the . Nick\trailed after him, for he was— NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 19 the doctor accurately remembered his clothes, would carry him safely through the ordeal. He separated the doctor’s footsteps from other sounds, and traced how near he was getting. Another sound, however, drowned out all these minor ones. “Look out, there!” “Whoa!” “Turn aside!” , A spot that had up till this moment held a simmering tar receptacle had become a mountain, a deluge of smoke and flame. A barrel had upset—had become ignited. -Instantly teams were balking, people run- ning; the scene was transformed into one of commotion and excitement. Nick stood still, a weaving wreath of the black, heavy smoke cut, turban-shape through the air, lifting in ridgy billows. Nick found himself directly in its centre; now he turned. Stumbling away, rubbing at his ‘smoke- smarting eyes, was Purdue. Nick had his opportunity; he seized it, mo- mentarily shielded by the smoke. His light overcoat went circling toward the centre of flame. His hat followed. From a pocket Nick quickly produced, unfolded and set in place a heavy slouch. , He swung a beard across his face with the same dexterity, and his lightning change was effected. A new person mai Nick Carter stepped free of the lifting smoke to resume the trail of the man who had come so near to discovering him. Nick soon regained the a of the object ee "tt ie of his interest. For half-a-mile it was a mere casual stroll, for Nick felt supremely secure, sheltered by his new disguise. wheeled with: the édlecity of a spin The doctor glanced at a clock in a ech: te oe = int ucipeSabermcaapartes ea essa Behn he —- ap apr setae :

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<a Dr. Purdue had reached his destination, wan Ee ascended the steps of a building partic- ularly well known to the secret service man. It was the business institution of Nathan Greene, banker, and Nick Carter now knew ‘—scoundrel. CHAPTER VIL. A um™ ” iN DAYLIGHT! ~ A “HOLD UP The game had fun to one burrow; this was highly satisfactory to Nick. ‘The chase had narrowed down to one focal “point, and the banking institution held three _- precious villains in collusion—the doctor, the ‘banker and the fake detective. “Dr. Purdue was going to Nathan Greene _. for the five hundred dollars. a «This showed a-connection, past and pres- = ent, between the two. ~ - Nick felicitated himself that he would ‘soon be prepared to give the situation a : Z. i ~ twist that would run the enemy into his fold. - Nick entered the bank. = His. keen eyes were every where, while he < approached t the window of a subordinate. Stein rates. charged by the bank collection of notes. occupied two minutes’ time, stupidly f over a page ade of the de- i * & ot P he peckes Cee aS and la- ly ‘making up some kind of a list, ratory to filling out the blank schedule. time, Nick watched the door marked : geerek: it he had seen | the doe- d:the rear room. = — with: a rather startled see as eae wy NICK CARTER WEEKLY. was sim 24 a prelude; he anticipated prepare “a finale. | ere banker to consume a quarter of an hour his valuable time. But, perhaps, he was consummating f plans for securing “the money to burn,” 4 which he had boasted. As the quarter hour struck, some on excitedly rushed up the outside steps, an dashed into the counting-room. Uttering a hoarse shout. he rushed up tq. the counter. - Holding to it and swaying from side té side, he electrified the staring-teller by shout Ings co ‘ “Has he been here?” — j Who?” demanded the teller. The new-comer waved one hand-wildly. He was hatless, his neckwear was disar ranged, one cheek was scratched. and blee ing. s Bs . Nick gave him a single glance, and ident? fied the fellow. ; Again, in his wise, Gnecrutable ay ; detective undertoned a mysterious “So!” The possibilities were becoming entertain 5 ing, if complex.” The latest comer was the “bank cies Cc tive,” who had visited Nick at his nome. he evening previous. : “Stop him!” wildly shouted this pues “See here, Marcy, are _you crazy?” des manded the teller. — ae ‘The bank detective let go of the: counter, and tumbled to the floor with a crash. _ “Warn him,” he raved. 7 “Warn whom?” _ demanded the startled telfer. tg = “Mr. Greene! Pans to rob-—assassinate™ - Two or three of the clerks. came running _ around from behind the counter. - Nick bristled with the conviction: that this ‘ It soon materialized. ‘Suddenly, ) ly, there rang out in the Se capil pirate” a loud, Se palace: ae ; er ; the as if or ‘ ne

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wee “Hear that!” ejaculated the teller. The bank detective started and bounded to Is feet. ‘He wildly plunged, stumbled, rolled to- ”ird the private office. He iell against its door and carried it in- Ward with him. | Nick glided after, the clerks following his xample. There was a crush of excited peo- in an apartment hitherto only accessible 1 invitation. eed At the window, which he had raised and fall, smashing it to atoms, was Greene. is exciténient was tremendous; he act- like an insane man, ran toward the clerks, waving his hands ldly. 3 fe police!” he shouted, ler in a horrified tone. ‘!—attempted murder!” “Robbe: Ghee: 3 : into into a chair, ‘collapsing, — But rst he pointed at the floor. ross the rug—in a faint or knocked i in- ‘nsible—was the cashier. * welt showed on the side of his head: rick doubted not that this man at least was renuine actor in the scene, is the large japaned | receptacle that had seen the cashier carry from. the “Sir ‘| What has happened?” quavered the late!” wailed. ‘the ‘bank ieteciwe:: up toa siaed a by its Berk the banker's desk lay two boxes; NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 21 One was a dynamite infernal machine, with wheel mechanism attached. 3 The other, a glass jar containing black liquid, had a partly burned fuse running down into it. be “The man entered _noiselessly,” Greene. > : “And set those two things on your desk?” “Covering me with a revolver.” “Why?” questioned the officer. “He demanded the money-box of the bank.” 5 “That is a vague designation.” “He warned me to send for it prompey; he lit that fuse.” “And the other “He set the horrible machine going. “Two minutes,’ he said, ‘and if the money is not. here, | blow you and the bank to atoms!’ ” “And himself?” “He was crazy!” “There seems to be method here.” “hk rang for the cashier.. On the peril of “His. life T commanded him to bring in the sh-box.”” : “That empty one?” agg you see.” . “When brought here it was full?” : “It contained’”—Green gasped—"sixty- five thousand dollars.” “And he took the money?” “That, and double that amount in bonds. a “Government bonds?” Part of them belonging to a client who was to call for them at eleven o'clock.” “Ah!” softly murmured Nick Carter. narrated ” “T am ruined, discredited—I wish he had =o killed me when he threw that small explod- ing shell yonder to scare me,” raved the banker, sinking his head between his out- ~ stretched arms on the desk, and his frame — shaking with well-simulated sobs. The bank detective’s story was sensational. It came in jerks—in an oe ae = re- Ca sa were not in the or r occurred,” ques tioned es

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a track of the man who had been ‘hanging around here for several days past.” “The one who committed this robbery?” “From the description—yes.” “You saw him this morning?” - “IT have been following him since’ day- light.” “Why did you not arrest him?” “I did so. He knocked me down, and threw me into an unoccupied basement, I 2 arrived too late!” = The cashier revived. His story straight. He had obeyed instructions. = Immediately after re-entering the private Bs room, he was dealt a blow with a paper -_- weight, he affirmed. Beyond that he remembered nothing till the. present moment. “Which way did the man go?” inquired the police officer. __. “He told me to turn off the wheels of one _. infernal machine. Ugh!” shuddered the _ banker. 2 of the other. Horrors! aa It was plain to trace how thief and money | had gone. The “noon extras” somata an account of one of the most daring hold-ups or freaks A of a crank ever pee hya in New York Ps _ City. _ The loss of a sesh in cash and another = vin bonds was itemized. _ The bank had closed its doors to the pub- tie, and its proprietor had made an assign- ment. His condition of collapse and prostration . was very serious, it was stated. _ His friends had acted on medical advice, and se tar Riva to the quiet of the coun- was knew nothing tangible. Carter, who knew all, said nothing 7 “. ; , but up to the hour of oing to press g at NICK CARTER WEEKLY, “two minutes’ limit, to do no possible harm i “He left me to extinguish the fuse __ That rear door——” “ “The police were working on a variety ‘of . fervor. Amid the confusion and excitement he w enabled to personally examine the two in fernal machines. They contained dynamite—they were ma to “go off’—both of them. But at a glance the detective discerne that they had been set, despite the avow the present instance. They would, however, pass muster wi average police intelligence, and enforce t well-planned and dramatic details of thi scheme. The door through which the alleged cran had departed was found unbolted. Nick followed the investigating police ficial out into a yard by this route. Then he hurried around to the street t make up for lost time. pe the pavement, the first person up against grasped his arm. Chick, ” spoke the detective. “Yes. What’s up in there?” “A comedy!” - “Indeed?” “No leisure for explanations now. I hav lost time already.” - “Over what?” ; “The alleged thief: ee “You know him?’ _ “Intimately.” “You know everything!” “Pretty nearly—so far as this affair is cot cerned, at least.” Nick made out a cab in the distance He and Chick left. the excited eo%a thronging the doors of the bank, to hail and enter the conveyance. <tt Nick gave an explicit direction . to _the driver. ri He urged acecome haste. Chick vas awaiting explanations in ge iS, “T had just strolled into the ae vhe the patrol came wap,”he explained. © “You had seen the y young lady?” ie a

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“The haul?” “And the dynamite.” “Explain. ” Nick did so. Chick opened his eyes sraibtety ata ation of the bank detective’s exploits. “Why, the audacious prevaricator!” he de- Ounced with vehemence. “His story doesn’t connect?” »“Scarcely.” “You saw him——” “At eight o’clock in a restaurant; you told € to look him up.” m Yes.” ‘At nine he was playing “This will answer finely.” “For what?” en we come to round up.the situa- “And that will be——” “When we get the main operator.” _ “The ‘crank’?’ « > ecisely. ”» = say you know him?” “We are going to his headquarters now. is Dr. Purdue. ” “You don’t mean to say it!” + “Certainly. Here is another chapter.” Nick ‘brought in the connecting link be- veen Sing Sing prison and the doctor's den. eve shall find him there?” murmured ni tick. ‘I really think he intended to bring me pes hundred dollars,” said Nick. s is a great scheme—the bank end of Veo—it lets Greene out Gualy: We walk ion! Dr. Piast and had been si by that individual early that morn- e detective proceeded with caution. << directed what to do; then they % NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 23 cuse that might convince with his host, when he became suddenly aware that it was worthless for the occasion. On arriving at the door of the doctor's quarters he found it wide open. , Nick entered and proceeded from room to room. Even the laboratory door was ajar; Pur- due had, therefore, returned. “Not here now, though, Nick. The detective traced why, with awakened interest in the man who had looted the eene establishment. The laboratory windows were riddled. A work bench was torn to pieces, and ere was a great jagged gap in the floor. A trail of blood led through the rooms and along the hallway. ” soliloquized The manipulator of dynamite had met with a disaster. How badly he was hurt Nick could fot divine, but he estimated that it was no ordi- nary injury that the doctor had received. Nick made some inquiries in the building. The explosion had been generally heard and commented upon. One man had seen a person with an arm wrapped up leave the place. He had disappeared down a crooked court. At its end all trace was lost. “Atastandstill?” suggested Chick, who had rejoined his superior. “Tt looks so,” admitted Nick. “Then we turn our attention back to the Greene end of the combination?” “Not as yet, Chick. Thére are elements in this affair that demand the finding of Dr. Purdue before we make public what we know of the real facts of the bank hold-up.” * * * ak * co Two days later Nick Carter came into pos- session of information that somewhat dis- turbed him. Two friends of the banker, Greene, had ac- companied him to his place of recuperation in the country. — The banker had the general sympathy of © the community, when it was aeten out that — his ae a ies ogee 2 ‘under the

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a NICK CARTER WEEKLY. ~—_| «: Unless the stolen money was recovered, it would pay depositors and creditors a bare © ten cents on the dollar. -. On the morning of the third day after the hold-up the two friends. of the banker brought some sensational information to New York City. Greene had got away from them the night previous. They had pursued: him to a boat.on the ocean beach. _ He had put out to sea in the darkness and storm. The boat was found, upturned and empty a mile from land, a few hours later, ‘Nick set his entire professional force work on the case in its various ramificatio Not a trace of Dr. Purdue could be found. _ The bank detective had dropped out of record as though he had departed for some . distant country. "At the end of five days Chick, Patsy and a ‘Ida reported a dead lull in every phase ot the affair that they had investigated. “Miss Viola Liscomb mourned the loss of her expected fortune. The matter promised to remain one of those mysteries that occasionally daunt the average detective mind, - But Nick’s confidence and resolution were superior to the average. At the end of a week he adjusted all his affairs, so that he could be at entire leisure to devote his sole energies to the matter that had become a complicated enigma. “ Then, alone, and without even apprising his associate, Chick, Nick Carter started out ve on a silent search for three men he was. bound to find—dead or alive. = banker, the doctor and the fake de- = _ Goverment CHAPTER IX. FRM “WAV-BACK.” “Don’t what?” “Get nary signature oubeni me!” “It’s simply custom.’ “Well, I’ve aon it tried afore, by. lig! ning-rod men.’ “Tell me your name, then, and I'll writ te” “Well, you en call me Ponsonby.” _ “Good enough. You want a room, M Ponsonby?” “By and by. I want to sit for the presen I’m done out, drat your city frauds!” “What’ s the matter?” ~ wagon saying they was selling ots for two- dollars.” cert thrown jin.” in, yes; quite common, that.” “L- sot on the tailboard of that wagof SUPPOSInE, they’d take me to the place.” “And they didn’t?” “Didn’t!. They went clear across the ci and put up the horses ata stable. Said they didn’t go nigh the store—they was only ad} vertising it.” “Hat ha!” | “So, I'll take a rest and maybe a littl] snooze, and then I'll pick out my room.” Pay in advance.” “That's the rule?” “Invariably.” “Suppose you burn down before bed time?” + “We’ re insured, and return the. money, course.” “That’s all right. There you are.” “Mr. Ponsonby” drew out a long, wallet. sia 7 It was not so long and lean, however, bt that quite a pile of bank notes showed. — At their exhibition the flashy, s clerk behind the hotel counter winked fellows lounging in easy chairs near by. — - The “hotel” was a hard den i ina hard’ s aE New York City.

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test complacency. _ He drew out a corncob pipe, chipped up Ime plug tobacco with a knife, resembling dwarf feed-cuttet, and puffed in ease and ajoyment. “The two fellows to whom the clerk had inked began to manifest activity. They edged up. toward the new guest fith unmistakable civility. One of them remarked to the other that € would go without a meal that night un- he struck some charitable friend. “How’s that?” inquired his confrere. “All account of oats.” “At this the new guest pricked up his ae “Oats, eh?” | “Yes—you know I’m on the Board.. Had vo hundred thousand bushels om a margin fery cent up. Got a quiet tip that a four tys’ storm was due in the Dakotas. Im- injury to grain—drop of at least four Ea bushel. Thought 1 knew it all— + i ens What hap ned?” their “oats” ‘out there ieee all heen nary for thirty days and more.’ At this the new guest turned squarely around. “Young man,” he drawled, “didn’t you Now that much about farming?” 7 eNO. J supposed the oat-vines were just bout ripe.” ~The oat-vi—ha! ha!—ho! ho! re -rushy! landlord, hold me! — ‘The oat-vines! hoop? tf ‘Why, what’s the ‘matter with that?” ell, I'll just tell you.” sharpers” could- not have approached victim Seti more | favorable condi- ty ger ‘seemed immensely tick- le to veatighten - “ther smart es frei much,” raed te as speculator, Sa ‘westiots A Sf NICK CARTER WEEKLY. - $ straggly gray chin whiskers with the | The new guest looked curious. “What’s that, now?” he inquired. “You know what dice are?” ~Course—seen ’ em in back-gammon, but never played ’em.’ “Come in here.” The farmer accompanied them into the _ bar, where they sat down at a table. 3 “I’m going to show you,” said the sharp- er, “what a good many people don’t stop to consider.” “And what may that be?” The man shook up three dice in his hand. He.flopped them over on the table. “Now, then,” he said, “‘here’s the new dis- covery—no matter how you throw the dice, the-total sum of the top spots and the corre- sponding bottom spots is bound to be 21.” “Hey?” | “Isn't it so?” ‘Let's see.” "Yes; count.” “Six and 3 and 1—” “Well?” ml Ws Ee “Now, the reverse cubes?” “One and 4 and 6.” “Don’t you see?” “Eleven—total, 21. “Of course it’s so.” “Don’t people know it?” “Did you?” | ; “I didn’t, for a fact!” “It’s one of those fool things that - has never cropped out generaily. It’s new. I wish I had a few dollars.” “What would you do?” “Give me a dollar, and I'll show you.” The farmer reflected. Then he drew out a silver coin. : A man at se. bar iad to go to the street. ‘The sharper hailed him. Say, it’s so!” “Look here!” he called, “I want to show re yee something.” __ - The man approached. “Bet a dollar I can let you. throw Pra ve three dice, and guess in advance what the _ «on sua total of A seas rut sae ee Sra : your esa we és ate. , ~*~

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Tes “Throw.” “Guess,” “Twenty-one.” “Three deuces.” “And three fives reverse—6, 15.” i Saaky f I see! It’s bound to come that may _ “Never thought of it before?” “Never did.” “Peddle it out slow.” “You bet, it’s brand new. Worth a dollar to know it.” ; “Do you see?” triumphantly smiled the sharper to the new guest. “T do, for a fact.” 3 “Take that experience home with you, and try it on your neighbors.” “Won't I chisel ’em C chuckled the farmer. “Here’s your money.” ay “Keep it. I'll take these dice instead. 5 Br any dice will answer; but here wey are”. The farmer fondled them and beamed over his acquisition of vast new knowledge. He brightened up as if he would like to start out on the warpath forthwith. “That’s why I said I wished I had a few dollars,” explained the sharper. “Soon is eo will he onto the wrinkle. Just _ now a fellow could mint money playing it Good thing! -— “while it’s fresh.” “If you can get bettors.” _ “T know where to find a slough of them.” Cae “You do? Say, show ’em ‘to me!” -“Tt’s a place of big bets.” “Well, I’ve got big money.” NICK CARTER WEEKLY. - stood in a hall at the bottom of a flight o pee The farmer got.up, and his two new friends linked his arms. They proceeded directly across the street. In front of a doorway bearing a “To Rent sign they pauséd. A fruit peddler blocked it with his stand for a little two-foot space. One of the sharpers made him a sign; he nodded. The door gave at a touch, and the trio stairs. “Sort of secret place this?” observed the granger. << “Yes, it is only for the choice and select; we wouldn’t take you into any rough-and- tumble den, you see.” At the top of the stairs was a lively, noisy room. acd The granger seemed red: by the co ~motion and strangeness ofthe sctne. While he stood gawking around, one of his ? companions glided away. Returning soon, he continued to pilot his, victim. ; “I’ve found a fellow warm to do some bet- ting,” he declared. “T’m-ready!” chuckled the granger, rat tling the dice in the big open side pocket of his coat. 7 As he drew out bis hand, the man on the side of him made a movement himself in the direction of the pocket. “Where’s your man?” inquired the grang- (<2 ws ‘ “That’s him, sitting smoking over By hat table yonder,” replied the sharper. The granger looked toward the spot i dicated. A sparkle came into his eye that ragged, bushy Be -— did not enti

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And the man to whom the two sharpers ere piloting: him was Marcy, the fake-de- tive of the extinct Greene banking estab- shment. * ———_- ~ ' CHAPTER X. = “COUNTERFEIT.” : The arrival of Nick Carter in the secret rambling den signalized a definite stage at- tined in a silent search. 3 hint run down the night previous that e of the characters in the false bank hold- rp > was at one time familiarly known to the wo men who were now his guides had in- the secret service man to try an experi- “His success was beyond his fortdest expec- tions, . ae ca arrived at mais Marcy, the - ck he planned did not interfere th the lighter 3 ean tactics of the present. - _ He chuckled and grinned with profound cret glee as he produced his three dice. M Marcy was elaborately disguised. But, jutst as he had failed to delude Nick on his to home headquarters, so now his true ity was clear to the keen expert, : ick stated his proposition; Marcy hipped out a wallet. “HH eS hold the stakes.” ; ere’s your dice,” said Nick, gy ele ag ; rattled them, ter an a bet digs : is up 21, top and ; fleeced. T want | NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 1 “Mister,” asserted Nick, ‘turn ’em over, and you'll find two fours and a three, mak- ing——” Nick gave a start that was a jerk—he glared, he gasped. : “Where’s your 21?” demanded Marcy. “That’s so!” replied Nick, amazingly. The “fixed” dice counted up just 17. Nick rubbed his head, regarding the disap- pearing stakes mournfully. He directed a look of reproach at his - friends, They were mingling with the crowd. “Don’t you want to try it again?” suggest- ed the fake detective. “No, mister, I don’t,” said Nick, ruefully. “See here—there’s a roulette wheel. Come, I'll post you, and see that you get a fair show for your money.” “T haven’t got any more money.” “Don’t tell me that! I saw a wad in your wallet there.” Nick clutched at the place where he had put it. He acted confused and uneasy. “Show me the way out of here!” he said, | hurriedly. “Hold on!” exclaimed Marcy. “What's your rush?” : _ “T’ve had enough of it!” “Pshaw! Dice are always uncertain. Come, I'll show you a run at faro that will double every dollar you put down.” “No,” said Nick. “I haven't got any money, I told you.” “Why, I saw it, man!” “You—you thought you did.” “The end of a fifty- dollar = “i Nick acted alarmed. \ te. a way. “T’'m in earnest,” The ee . ves Marcy had pats his arm in a engaging

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* : i x +. “Mister,” said Nick, desperately, “I das- : sent!” ~- “Nonsense!” “That money aw “Well?” “You won't say a word if I tell you a secret about it?” “Sure not.” Nick looked suspiciously all about him. He led the way to a corner. He took out his wallet, and he unpinned the parcel of bank notes. He took off one, and let Marcy inspect it. si “Well?” said the latter, “it’s fifty dollars.” A “Think so?” “Haven't I got eyes!” “How’s that!” The exact phototype in newness and num- ber series Nick drew out next. = “Eh!” exclaimed Marcy. - PR, Across it’s face was a red skeleton-lined - tracery. . — It stared up, plain, warning, surprising. It was the word “Counterfeit.” Marcy was gazing vacantly from one bill - to the other. “What is the meaning of this?" quired. _ “Mister,” said Nick, shrewdly, “I don’ ti in- > criminate myself i in nothing?” “What are you getting at?” = “Tf I mortgaged the farm and invested four thousand in thefn——” “Meaning 1 these bills?” . “And got bit?” “How bit?” * he in- 4 ‘the ashes pounds his big ‘Counterfeit’ mp down on the bill” a a NICK CARTER WEEKLY. 4S se. in his ‘min One corner of each was torn off to remo¥ some defect, he traced it. But not enough was gone to prevent til general passing of the note, if genuine. — “Stranger,” he * said, you mean to tell me you have a sae of thes things?” “Four in my pocket—two stamped red.”’ “How many did you buy?” “How’s four hundred of them?” Marcy clutched Nick’s arm with fervor. “You've got four hundred of those bills?” he interrogated eagerly. “What of it?” “Do you want to sell them?” “Why, they’re no good!” “Good! man, they’re superb! Blest, if think they're queer at’all! Maybe that cor ner was a giveaway, but, in the hands o} people who know how to run ‘them off “Fellers like you?” “Ves.” a ‘ ; ‘ “What then?” &S r “They're good as go d like to rut against the green goods crowd you got thet from. Where have you got them?” Nick became flustered. “T suppose you hid them—got scared?” “Tt’s a scary deal, fooling with sich!” “Not with wage knows the ropes.” “That’s so.’ 4 “[’'m going abroad; too, where they can bef shifted easy. I'll take the elephant off your hands.” 3 ee 4 “All right—you come with me.” “Where's the place?” questioned Mare} y as they reached the street. “You “just _keep with me; oad one “What's that?” = “We need a dark lantern, a Tittle cro and some rope.” “ Marcy halted, ‘torning the bi op confidentially, - sok easy

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Marcy led the way three squares. ‘You wait-here for a few minutes,” he d, halting before a row of flats. ‘Live here?” ‘Day times. > “Go ahead. s ick : counted the steps ascended by Marcy Garkness. He took out a card, and hastily wrote upon At the next corner a cab was coming into Nick made a brisk run. | 2 card and a bank note he_ hastily i up. to the driver, leaping to the Good!” said Tae 3 Nick gave him nu amber and. a street—his own residence— e it in thirty, or go out of the busi- =~ ~ mick CARTER WEEKLY. == “How—— ; heavy chains, and a blood-stained, crumbled, official-looking envelope. These were mementoes of a night of ac- tion, and early morning events of tragic im- portance. “™ They announced that the famous detective and his alert aids Had closed up finally and satisfactorily the matters of Nathan Greene, ex-banker. It was the hour of ten. Nick had not slept for over thirty-six hours, yet his keen eve _ was clear and pleasant. With a winning smile he welcomed the visitor just announced, for the secret service expert had it in his power to make Miss Viola Liscomb supremely happy. . Her face was pale and anxious as she en- tered the room. - 7 “Be seated,” invited Nick, and the cheerful tones and manner made Miss Liscomb Te- gard him with eagerness. “You sent for me, Mr. Carter?” she nit: inquiringly. “Yes,” nodded Nick. xii the bank affair?” : “About its ending, Miss Viola Liscomb,” announced Nick. § pee “It is ended, then?” — “Permanently.” af “And tragically!” s The young girl began to tremble. “Nathan Greene is pees -: “observed. Nick. :

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= = Nick’s visitor looked and shocked. “What Greene really did,” proceeded Nick, “was to fool his friends, leaving the surprised memory of an erratic.sail and an upturned boat to delude them. He came to the city. He went into hiding.” “Why?” es ~ “Of necessity. It seems that circum- stances forced him to disappear—with the money and bonds alleged to have been stolen.” ae “Which, you told me confidentially, this - 2 man, Purdue, had taken by collusion.” : rad “That 3 is it. Green rejoined his col- i league.” | ; “Where, Mr. Carter?” 3 Gta secret haunt provided by the alleged 3° ‘bank detective, Marcy. This Marcy I ran - es down yesterday. I informed my assistants i of his residence. I led Marcy on an idle aka jaunt, finally imprisoning him. I tried to be _ force him to confess what I wished to know. He absolutely refused.” then “My assistants, meantime, started out to investigate his quarters. They located his _ rooms, securely locked up. They ascer- tained that two persons had occupied these, with | Marcy. There was no noise about the gam ‘One window, however, was Peet 2 : NICK CARTER WEEKLY. — Paes = : leave the country.” small pet dog in the Sidi a spry, intelli- gent creature. They sent this scout across the frail bridge. It entered the room be- yond. Barking furiously, it returned cov- ered with blood.” 5 The young girl's eyes dilated. th <= - “Let me be brief as, to what they found, later—the man whose photograph you gave me ” “Rogers——” = “Alias the doctor, Purdue, dead—and by ; . 2 “Tt is shocking—horrifying!”. “A duel those two had fought in that | room—they were hacked in a hundred his side, Nathan Greene.” places, they lay in a frenzied death clasp. To the waist of Purdue was chained these two Rina dtl satchels.” = Nick removed the newspaper from the ty of his desk. % “They contain——’ » Sf 9 “The missing bonds and the missing aa from the bank.” “T do not understand. Es “Dr Purdue’ s hand was gone—he hat a cidentally blown it off with dynamite, ir pst den, the morning he robbed the bank.” * The recital ses Nick's. ger auditor, moned Marcy. eee the banker c It looks as though Purdue had money to his waist, and, he Vv fused to divide antil he -

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eS NICK CARTER WEEKLY. « 31 account of the plot that drove your father AMATEUR PHOTOGR APHY. to flight.” Many people imagine that a photwyraphers camera is a dificult i = z . machine to hutidie, aud that the worlcis dirty aud disagreeable. All ; i The beautiful girl arose In a state of ex- this 8 amistake. Photography is a clean, light, and pleasant ac- r : 3 cou.plishment, within the reach of all, The camera will prove & se treme agitation. r friend, reporter, aud helper With a very Inexpensive camera any os boy or girl can now learn not only to take goodypictnres, but pictures “Tt vindicates him!” she cried. that there is everywhere a demand for at remnnerative prices. A complete guide to this fascinating art, entitied AMATEUR MaNnvaL par eit tells how Purdue set upa vile scheme OF PHOTOGRAI HY will he sent on receipt of ten cents. Address STREET & SMITH, 238 William =t., N. ¥, “to fleece him and then unjustly charged him an atrocious crime. _We must reach Nick Carter Quarterly. F vee = . . 43 * iad father Bow =i he = sa alive. The earlier issues of Nick Carter Weekly, are nowgon sale in the “Ali ibe form of Quarterlies. each including 13,consecntive issues of this etd , favorite weekly, together with the 18 original ilaminated ilinstra. a, X tions. and an elegant cover in colors. ‘The price is 50 Cents per “Yes, he was so when that order for the volun Se a rie m they wilt be sent by mail post-paid to any ’ me, for which su y address in the United States. onds . was sent to me across the Atlantic. No. 1, including Noa 1 to 13 of Nrek Carter Weekly. , 2 « Nos. 14 to 26 of Nick Carter Weekly. Jathan Greene wrote the statement in this No.3, “ # Nos. 27 to 89 of Nick Carter Weekly. ¥ ; e No. “ Nos. 40 to 52 of Nick Carter Weekly. J nvelope. I think he held it as a menace aan «Nos. 58 to 65 of Nick Carter Weekly. af i Newsdealer has not got the Quarterlies, renrit direct to over Purdue. Do not give way! apge “4 £ y Ah! no oie ; fonder!’ : STREET & SMITH, 238 William St., N .¥. 2 = Miss Viola Liscomb had fainted—but “from an excess of excitement that was half HOW TO DO BUSIN Hiiope and joy. > A et meen ow mie, Cama Se O)} An investigation of the affairs of the ex~ t'S\ctoesand Faire, hnsiness Maxims and Forms. aj. It else banker showed that only BPE esate -acichy Fie on ne ee ee acod taco a the hold-up robbery could he have cov- Reacis one ened ame PE RD HS ed the frauds of many years. ¢ Oe camer, fos 238 William St., N. ¥. _ The fake detective made a clean breast of fering thereby cutting ig two what Diamond Dick, Jr., Quarterly. “otherwise might have been a long sentence RE a ene eee > ee a the form of Quarterlies, each inctnding 13 consecutive issues of this - a favorite weekly, together with the 13 original Hiuminated iMustra- THE END. \ tions, and an elegant cover im colors. The price is 50 Cents per * volume, for which sum they will be sent by mail post-paid to any address in the United States. No. 1, including Nos, 1 to 13 of Diamond Dick, Jr. _ ; number of the Nick Carter - conti No, 2, be Nos, 14 to 26 of Diamond Dick, Jr. ain ‘‘Nick Carter as an No.3, “ Nos, 27 to 89 of Diamond Dick, Jr. : No.4, “ Nos. 40 to 52 of Diamond Dick, Jr, that was Tampered No.5, “ Nos. 58 to65o0f Diamond Dick. Jr. If your Newsdealer has not got the Quarterlies, renrit direct to | the publishers, STREET & SMITH, 238 William. st., N- ¥. WRESTLING. — — tells ns that wrestling was the first form of- athletic ‘Without doubt ager and firmness, combined } in man. The book is entitled PRorEessoR - : It Is fully illustrated and will be sent : h cents. Address ,

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5 eed c ¥ - ¢ PS 3 as - ’ Sige eee AS : or re i + ~ a3 ~ 4 Bia Pries Are On Vacation 2 ‘THE MEDAL LIBRARY Oliver Optic and Others. ~ % « % The bit Books at the Right Price. ‘There is a line of classics for youth—the books your fathers read—the books you want to read— the | bool the boys and girls will read and like as long’as the English language ‘endwes. They have done more to shape the mind” of American boys for the last fifty years than any others, We refer to the writings of Oliver Optic, Horatio Alger, Edward S. Ellis, Lieut. Lounsberry, James Otis, William Murray Graydon, etc. These names are faimiliar wherever the American, flag floats. a Unfortunately, they have heretotore been procurable only in expensive binding at from $1.00 to $1.50: each. a The average boy has not got $1.50 to invest. Ten cents is nearer his price, We have made the ten cent book eb the leader with the elder readers. Now we are going to do the Same thing for the boys, and give them their favorites os in a form in every respect equal to our well-known Eagle and Magnet Libraries, at the uniform price of ten cents. a Thousands of boys liave asked us to issue this line, Thousands more are ready to sbuy it on sight. There is 0 line like it in the world, We can justly call it the Medal seties, as every book will be a prize winner. {t will contain no. story that the boys have not approved as.a ‘‘standard,” They have bought them by thousands at $1, bead up- e - ae and now they can get them for TEN CENTS A COPY. Br = - MEDAL LIBRARY *. q = ‘1—The Boat Club : By Oliver Optic ies bad cadet Kit jab er re Lieut. eh Lounsbone a Lieutenant Carey’ 8 Luck v a . ow or Never : tain Carey of the Gallant Seventh 7—Chased Through Norway " 8—Kit Carey’s Protege . 3 ry Again 10— Kirk, the Boy Cattle King 12—Don Kirk’s Mine . By Oliver Optic By ‘Lieut. Lionel Lounsberry 4 3 : By Oliver Optic | IBS d Lieut. Lionel Lounsberry ¢ 3 . By James Otis — Petes Sy Lieut. Lionel Lounsberry { 3 Z By Oliver Optic — By Gilbert Patten 11—From Tent to White i (Boyhood ain Life of President McKinley. ) By Edward §. Ellis By Gilbert Patten oe e 13—U: Se Ladder .. ; * By Lieut: Murray ee 14—The Young Colonists. A Story o. Lite and. War in Africa : ‘ . By G. A. Henty me 15—Midshipman Merrill. ‘ ; By Lieut. Lionel Lounsberry 4. 16—The White King“of Asin Seavey. : _ By William Murray Graydon rns 17—Ensign Merrill : é J ‘ F By Lieut. Lionel Lounsberry — = 18—The Silver Ship = > - . * 3 4 - . By Lewis Leon | gL 19—Tack Archer : foie dn Pa gt eae a eee an 2, . 20—Wheeling for Fortune eat : Si 5 . By James Otis a 21—Won at West Point . . * E . > : .> + By Gaia : oe 33—Jud and Joe, Printers and Publishers wo on. By Silene og = 84"Phe Adventures of Mr. Verdant whe: . By Cuthbert 2 Be ~~ -85—In the Reign of Terror . Rb Ap a sss 36—In Barracks and Wigwam 37—Commodore Junk . . Be eq ate ‘ ccike OTHERS EQUALLY Goop TO FOLLOW. | peel LBS CRY Ne ane “By William Pl Grayaana ao By. George” Manville

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~~ fi ‘117—Nick Carter : ““124—Killed by His Victim; Nick Carter Weekl Price, Five Cents. Illuminated Cover. THE BEST LIBRARY OF DETECTIVE STORIES. af sobeeeeee ete reeeerete ete Back Numbers always on hand. Price, post-paid, Five cents each. eobtee ete eer ene eetetette 106—Killed at the Baths; or, Nick Carter Right on | 13i—The Malay’s Charge; or, Roxy’s Life Saved Hand. 107—Among the Express Thieves; from. Jail for Good Behavior. or, Released “Sos_ After the Policy Snarps; or, The Game That Rob ed the Poor. Up in Chicago; or, A ‘New System of eeping Books. 110—The Spider and The Fly; or, The Battle of His Life. 111—A Scientific Forger; Swindie. ; 112—The High Power Burglars; or, Broken Wall. 113—Found at Low Tide; or, The Body in the Pool. 114— Officer Dugan's Beat; or, The New Member : of the Force. 109 or, The Great Bank Behind the 115—Nick Carter’s Chance Clew; or, The Rogue of the Race Track. ; 116—Nick (arter. Att r a Missing Man; or, The Werk of Hellion City; or, The Notice Posted on the ‘Deer: 118—The Great Poisoning Case- or, What Ilap pened at the Laboratory. 119—Nick Carter Among t e 120—Fighting the Circus Cro and Dollarss hort. 121—Onut of the levil’s Clutches; or, Nick Carter's New Friend 122—Waiiing to be Robbed; Diamond Case. 123—The Sleeping Car Mystery. : ; re Green-goods ter Players. a ks; or, Ten Thous- or, Nick Carter’s Men at Work. 125—Nick Carter a Prisoner; or, How Bob Dalton Found His Match. 126 Set On Fire; or, Nick Carter’s Bravery. 127—A Demand for Justice; or, Nick Carter Offered a Bri e. 128—Was It Murder; or, Nick Carter’s Short Vacation. 129—Nick Carter's Mascot; or, Treachery Among Thieves. 130—Roxv’s Signal In the Sky; or, A Gold-Bug Worth a Fortune. 131—At Kessler Switch; or, Nick Carter’s Train Robbery Case. -132—The Face in the Bottle; or, Detective Buff and One of the Finest. ta -433-—Afraid of Nick Carter; or, The Man who Wasn’t Born Yesterday. by a New Pet. 135—The Great Abduction Vase; or, A Baby’s Cry for Freedom. - 136—Short Work with Train Robbers; or, the Mask that was Marked with Blood. 137—Bob Ferret’s Trump Card; Found on a Century Run. 138— Nick Carter’s Mouse Trap; or, The End of. Doe Helstone. 139— Strack Down; or, How the Superintendent Lent a Hand. 140—Nick Carter’s Greatest Compliment. 141—Nick Carter on the Limited; or, The Man on the Smoker Who Didn’t Smoke. 142—Nick Carter Meets a Wizard and Shows Him a New trick. 143—Nick Carter’s Handsome Prisoner; Her Smile Failed to Fascinate Him. . 144—Nick Carter Claims a Fortune, and Tnrns it Over to the Right Owners. 145—Nivk Carter’s Midnight Arrest; or, An Inter-— ruption of a Poker “Game, 146—Nick Carter’s Race tor Life; or, An Accident in the Nick of Time. I47—Nick Carter’s Turn at the Wheel; or, Red» and Black Both the Same. 148—Nick Carter’s Snap Shot; or, A Photograph That Gave Evidence 149—Nick Carter Exchanges Prisoners; or, A Likeness Easily Explained. 150—Nick Carter’s Bogus Bargain; or, Outwitted by Duplicate Methods. a t—3 151—Nick Carter Stands a Bluff, and Wins a Game Which Ends in Limbo. 152—Nick Carter’s Fake Murder Uase; or, The. Plan to Wipe Out the Agency. or, What Was or, How 1638—Nick Carter's Midnight Caller; or, A Case~ Concluded Before Daylight. 154—Nick Carter Settles a Conspiracy; or, A Tele-— gram That Wasn’t Signed. 155—Nick Carter’s Curious Client: or, A criminal With More Gall Than Sense. 146—Nick Carter’s Silent Search; or, A Dri a Fake Detective. 157—Nick Uarter as an Expert; or, A Bat Was Tampered With. 158—Nick Carter and the Sawdust Man; or, a Ins vestment That ( aused Trouble. 159—Nick Carter's New Uniform; or, A Bribe That Was Expected. ; A 160—Niek Carter’s Steamae rank; or, A Mid-Ocean. ;