Pluck And Luck (no. 200) (1902 04 02)
The text was read from the page scans by machine (OCR), so it has mistakes and its columns may run together. See the pages · About this title · At the Internet Archive
Page 1
LETE —— ADVENTURE. No. 200. NEW YORK, APRIL 2, 1902. Price 5 Cents. 1898 by Frank Tousey. Phil was only a few steps behind at the moment, but three of the dragoons were springing at him with their swords, while Captain Darling cried aloud: “Don’t strike the prisoner, but secure him!” The daring youth let fly right and left with the burning brand.
Page 2
i.) These Books Bk You. ila book consiste of sixty- oar pages, printed on 200d paper, in clear type and neatly bound: in an attractive, ‘Mustraped ‘Saie Bkest of the’ books are also profusely illustrated, and all of the subjects treated upon are explained in. such a simple manner thatiany © @bild ear thoroughly uhderstand them. ,.Look over the list ag classified and. see if. you, want to eR anything ares a bagi: @eationed. en a er acerca mae Ter @HESE BOOKS ARE FOR SALH BY ALL NEWSDHALERS OR WILL BE SENT BY. MAIL TO ANY sponse ie2GM THIS OF FICH ON RECEIPT OF PRICE, TEN CENTS. BACH, OR ANY ‘THREE BOOKS FOR ‘TWENTX-BIy ee : WETS) POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. Ee aS enn See . SPORTING. ne BLOW: TO HUNT AND FISH.—The most complete Quntipe and Aishing guide ever: published. It contains. fuil in- ions about guiis, hunting dogs, ae trapping. and fishing, einer with ages of game and § 6, 26; HOW ‘TO ROW, galt AND BUILD A BOAT. Fully atented: Hvery.. boy shout know how to row and @ boat. mil fustrections are-given in’ this little book, together ith in* a yap on swing and riding, companion iY pding to boating. Nu 47) HOWTO, BREAK, RIDE, AND: DRIVE. A HORS complete treatixe-on the hove, Describing the mést useful horses © business, the best horses for the road; also valuablé recipes: for aes Peculiar to the horse. Wo..45. LIOW.,1O: BUILD AND SANL.CANOES~A handy ‘pook for ‘boys, containing full..aivections. for. cofistructing evoes i EF the most poptilac manver of sailing them. Bias illustrated. ¥ CL Stansfieid Ticks: FORTUNE TELLING. We. NAPOLBON’S DRACULUM AND DRBAM BROOK.— Mentaisiae the ‘great ‘oracle ot ee Piesie tals the: true mean- Meee os fb fortune of pour isieaaa. Be Me HOW TO. TELL FORTUNES BY. THE HAND.— ntaizing- rules for telling fortunes by the aid of the lines of the ind: oe -the-eeeret of palmistty.. Also the secret df telling future : | ee by pid “of moles, Marks, scars, etc. Iiustrated). By A. OREO. i : ATHLETIC. beg ot OW EO. Lae pened AN ATHLDT RA Giving fat ing | Som. for thevase of dumb bells, Indian clubs, parallel bars, Sareeh bars and yarious. other/methods:of developing a good, tthe muscle j containing over sixty i}fustrations. ery boy can and healthy by following the instructions contained this Ettle Ne. IC: fro FO. BOR +The art of self-defense*made easy. cntsinin @ over thirty illustrations of guards, blows, and the differ: pati of good boxer: very boy should obtain one of books, as it will teach you how’ to box sé. _fagntatent eee pnacenctive i oie Oa HOW Tt ToeRBCOMD A GYMNAST—-Containing full yptions for abtrinds of gymnastic sports and athletic exercises. mabe oY ioe So Seloldae By Professor. W. Macdonald. Wi i Mow VO FUNCH—Containing full instruction ‘for cite and the use of the broadsword ; also istriction. in archery. se, Bes vith eon one pric tical illustrations, giving the best positions in’ fenci A complete ‘be NowGly HOW TO BECOMD P54 ‘bowling. Containing full ini @te American aod German games; eportitig in use ‘by ‘the ee “bowling clubs in the rae By Bartholomew Batterson: Ol. BOWLER—A ‘complete manual uctions for playing ail the stand- together. with tules and s Se Hite Aen TRICKS WITH CARDS, ey We S10 HOW TO DO TRICKS WITH,CARDS.—Containing Si @apianations of the general principles of sleight-of-hand applicable oe eerd tricks; of card tricks with ordinary cards, and not requiring ht-of-band: ‘of tricks’ involving sleight-of-hand, or the use. of} ialiy prepared “ards. By- Professor. Haffner. “No, ‘OW. TO. DO SIXTY TRICKS WITH CARDS—Pm- eatene. of the Iatest and most’ deceptive card tricks, ‘with il- : A. Anderson. y "No. 77. TO DO FORTY TRICKS WITH. CARDS.— gece Card Tricks as performed by leading conjurers “Arreaged for home amusement Bally ilbtstrated. (Continued on With. illustra- oes Enid eh ie x Address FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 2 es Square, Ne ¥y ” MAGIC. Li ees No. 2, HOW TO DO-TRICKS.—The grea card tricks, containing full instruction of att he ken, arc of the day, also the most popular magical illusions aa'pe) our leading magicians; ‘every boy should obtain a copy as it will both amuse and instruct, i Noy 22. HOWsTO DO SHEGND SIGHT. Pelle sipiained by his formex assistant, Fred Hunt; in. ex in, te ne by were, carried on’ between themeagician boy-.on- the @tage. ving: He Bis. codes, and signala, se8'| authentic empisustion 4 ‘second be No #432 HOM, PO BROOME, 4 ‘ MAGICTAN Pally By AvAnder 70 HOW. PO MAG MAGIC TOYS- Contain directions for taaking: Magic Toys and devices: of cae A: Anderson. ue illustrated. } No. 73. HQW'DO DO FRICKS WITH NUMB . i taacy-onrious tricks with Bgured aud the magic of beeen f dé iwily iilustrated. ? No. 7: HOW-TO BECOME A CONTUR: tricks with Dominoes; pee aes ae rer aici thirty-six illustrations. Ne 7a HOW TO DO THE Bt the secret Lilustrat bl ECHANICAL, all, giving. examples: in. ¢lectricity; edieesen tee The moet Pgineer; also directions for building f har loco: potions how to make a" Banjo,. Violin, Zither, Aeolian ern times. Profusely itastrate description of the lantern, together pein ite) hi Neate by TO DO MECHANICAL ie, feomplete instructions for performing. over sixty No. 11. HOW 0 WRITH. LOVE-LWETHRS. and old. also letters-of introduction, notes and rae : LETTERS TO GENTLEMEN, 4 snnleetiy also siving per ee letters for instructi No. Ba. WRIT mother, sister, brother, employer; and, in fact, sre and ART. ee | plete deséription ofthe mysteries ‘of LAGE ART gether with many wonderin} expenmenta, oe “4 "No, 20, HOW BG. BECOME’ AN ‘reno should ack how inventions originated. “Phis Bee bie mechanics, ete ete er, No: 56. HOW TO BECOME AN ENGINEER — Oa fo instructions how to proceed in*erder: to eee rat mae a full description of everythin 4 0. 57. HOW TO.MARE MU OAL, SR ene & plioné sand. other musical ina eae act ee ce ga with « “orie€: ps Aca of nearly every ninsica t usdd in miciey for twenty years bandmaster of th et arte or twen rs bardmaster o No. 59. HOW TO MAKE A MAI nee EAN lso' ful! directions oF - uée.and:for painting § Cis iilustrated, by John A Why: By A, Andereon.- Fully illustrated. NG od 9 tess 2 LETTER WHITING | plete little book, containing full directions: for Sita et san aid when to use them; also giving specimen letters for both No. 12. HOW TO WRITE LETTERS TO LADT complete instructions for writing Bo? ses fee Sey on all aw No. 24. HOW TO WRITE Containing full Uiecesy for ae We gentlemen on all E TETTORS-A wonderful book, telling you tae to write to your your body you wish to write to. Every young man ‘every m Inet in one shonld Bg book, Nearest, IOW ‘TO WS full instructions for writing letters on i also. rtiles for, punctuation eed composition; toevter Te, page 2 of ever.)
Page 3
PLUCK AND LUCK. corn anes ee ty a rm preg | Complete Stories of Adventure. Fssued Weekly—By Subscription $2.50 per year. Entered as Second Olass Matter at the New York, N. ie November 7, 1898. of Congress, Washington, D. C., Post Office, Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1902, in the office of the Librarian by Frank Tousey, 24 Union Square, New York. NEW YORK, APRIL 2, 1902. Price 5 Cents. ‘CHAPTER I. WhO SAW MY BOY? “Moll, listen to me now, as I want to have a serious talk with you.” “Don’t bother me, sergeant, as don’t you see that I’m in a hurry to fill the canteens for the boys, and they going into battle this morning?” “Fill away, then, but listen to me.” “I'll hear every word you say, and I'l] mind it, too, as I al- ways do.” - Thus spoke Sergeant Pitcher and his wife on an eventful morning in June when the war of the Revolution was at its height. The soldier was seated in a tent smoking a pipe, and his wife was bustling about, filling canteens and water and whis- ky, and also watching a stew simmering over a fire outside. - “T suppose you know we expect a battle to-day, Moll,” can- _ tinued the soldier. “To be sure I do; but that’s not what makes you look so glum, as you're not afraid, I know.” Sergeant Pitcher, as he was called, smiled a little at his wife, and then replied in serious tones: “T can’t say that I am afraid, old girl, but soldiers will fall in battle, and we will have sharp work to-day, I am thinking; but I want to give you a warning about the boy.” “What about him?” Moll Pitcher started and faced her husband, dropping her hands beside her as she asked the question, while her spright- ly face wore a serious expression on the instant. The sergeant held up his hand in a warning manner, as he answered: “Don’t talk so loud, as you ean’t tell who may be listening to you. It struck me a little while ago that something may happen me in the fight to-day, and I wanted to have a serious talk with you about him.” _ “Nonsense! Nothing will happen you, and I never saw you troubled before when going into battle; but what about the boy?”. / - “Do-you know where we are making for now?” “How do I know, sergeant? What I do know is that the English rogues fled from Philadelphia, and good Serey a Washington is chasing them along here.” The English are retreating to New| a “That's: it, my girl. , York, and General Washington is trying to cut them off.” — _ “What has that got to do with the boy?” “A good deal, it may be. I heard last night that Captain sf Darling is with the dragoons sent on here from New York to help the English general against Washington.” : ; - “Captain Darling! Captain Darling!” repeated Moll, as a scowl appeared on her comely" oo “You mean old Lord it alapel son?” } He landed in New York two! months ago ‘ith his of dragoons, pretending to be very anxious” to fight | aga at the Americans, but I think I know what his real "ae ti oming tbe to Ame ica, and 80, do you: 44 “That I do, and I’d like to have the villain afore me now. I see what you are aiming at now, sergeant, about the dear boy, and what would you say to me?” “T would call to your mind how we took charge of him long years ago, and the solemn promises me made then about him.” “T’ll never forget that night; and haven’t I been like’ his own mother to the brave boy? Haven't you been a father to him, I’d like to know?” “We both did the best we could for him, and we have pro- ‘tected him so far,” answered the soldier in grave tones, “but the trying time for him is coming now, I fear.” “Do you mean to tell me that Captain Darling suspects who he is?” “T fear he does, Moll.” y “What makes you think so? Didn’t we change our name when we left the old land, and how could they track us here at all?” “T don’t know how ee did it, but I fear they have, Sad you know I am not one to be very suspicious.” “And do you think. the villains will try to kill the brave boy?” The sergeant reflected over the question for some mo- ok ments saying: { “J don’t think thy will try that at all, but they will try to Do you TELS the promise we get him in their power. made sixteen long years ago?” “To be sure I do.” “What was it, then?” “We promised the good lady that we would + bei her bon here to America—that we would treat him as our own son, and that we would take him back to her again when he Were twenty-one, providing either of us were living.” “That’s it, exactly; and what did we promise if either 3 us should die?” “We promised the good lady to hedee the letter for the hos fe telling him who he is, but not to mention a word about it to him on our lives until he was over eighteen Sareea old, and not then, barring we were both dead.” The soldier nodded his head, and then continued, saying: oH “You have it, all right, Molly, and the letter is safe with — you. should happen to-day.” “Nonsense, my brave man, as you will live to fight man a battle more after to-day.” hah The brave soldier sprang from his Seat and shook himself, as he responded: Eas i in a very serious manner, and he then answered, — IT only want to give you a warning now if anything “Maybe I will and maybe I will not, but listen well to me. oe “Sure Tam listening all thé time and never ‘Saying a WO: at all.” i “Then what I have to say) ‘is’ this, are after him.” : “Tl be the death of the, rogues” if they. fig i so I will,” exclaimed the excited woman, as she hook: clenched fist in the di ection of the ae eS
Page 4
ae MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. (Ed A ERE ra EOS LEE SE Se ee iy Sl Mice ARES AS LRN re : Several soldiers hastened to the tent at the time to fill — their canteens, and Moll Pitcher had her hands full for the © next hour or so. In the meantime, the battle had commenced in front, and the cannon and muskets blazed forth in the deadly strife. Moll listened now and then, and she would cast her eyes out of the tent, as she remarked to one of her customers: . “Glory be to goodness! Isn’t it a pity good General Wash- ington isn’t there to smash the English altogether?” And more than one of her customers replied: i “He is coming along with reinforcements, ante we are hold- ing our own against them as it is.” t “Do you call that holding our own?” cried Moll, in indig- — nant tones, as she saw some stragglers running to the rear. Then out from the tent she burst, yelling: “Back with you, you cowardly rogues, and fight like men for ; liberty. Do ye want the English dogs to be masters over ye again?” Some of the stragglers did turn back again when thus up- braided by the patriotic woman, who turned to those Hngeriae in the tent, crying: “Shoulder your guns, you villains, and away Sat you aut. of here to fall in where you belong, and fight to the death. I’ll wager you my brave husband and me darling boy will not turn their backs, and it is in the front you'll find them — now by gun and horse, battling for the country that gave us shelter and freedom.” The soldiers hastened away to the front, and the patriotic woman followed them some distance, as she muttered aloud: “Bad cess to me if I don’t think the day is going against us, from what I see, and may Heaven send General Washington _ here soon. Where are you going, you cowardly blackguards?” The question was addressed to a lot of soldiers who were flying back in disorder, some of them shew wounds beast had received in the fight. “Oh, Moll, Moll!” answered one of them, whose right arm — 8 was hanging helpless by his side, “the battle is lost, and the sergeant lies dead beside his gun!” A yell of rage and anguish burst from the patriotic woman, ae as she dashed on to the front, crying: \ “My brave man dead beside his gun, and the murdering: English beating us this way? By the powers above, but they s won't have it all their own way while Moll Pitcher Hae a es to raise against them.” ; On through the stragglers and through the brave men who were holding their ground dashed the heroic woman, na) i hair flying in disorder over her neck and shoulders. Pn ¥ ‘Guided by the reports of the cannon in front, the brave creature pressed on and on until she was in the midst of. the en battle and standing béside the gun where her gallant hushand had fallen in defense of his adopted land. ike Bending down over the dead soldier for a moment, ine sob only escaped from the devoted woman, as she muttered aloud: ‘ © Ayr 3 “He did give me his last ae 6; ‘and now to show the English that they won’t have it all their own way.” Springing to her feet and staring around for a moment, ; Moll Pitcher cried: . at! take my husband’s place at the gun. Give me a han my boys, and we'll blaze away at them again!” ‘ } The gun had been silent: for some minutes, ai working it had been either killed or wounded. bia! Inspired by the example of the heroic woman, = vr sprang | to. her assistance, one of them rere ea “Hurrah for Moll Pitcher! a woman mans the gun?” Nee again. It is not to their interest to injure him bodily, but * they would poison his mind and use him for their own wicked purposes, which would be far worse than death to him and the good lady who loves him.” “To be sure they would, and I’ll poison them if they at- tempt to touch my boy, good ‘or bad.” . “Here he comes now,” said the sergeant, in sprightly tones, “and don’t forget what may be my last warning, Moll.” ' “Don’t be making a fool, of yourself, and did I ever ’ forget anything you ever said to me? Phil, my boy, and so you are fixed for the fight?” ; The last words were addressed to a strapping youth of sev- enteen or eighteen, who ran into the tent as he answered: “IT am ready for fight, mother, but I’d like some breakfast in a hurry. We may get the order to fall in at any moment, as General Clinton has made a stand for it at last.” “Then sit down and I'll give you both some stew at once and some fine coffee after it,” cried Moll in lively tones, caressing the lad at the same time. Phil Pitcher, as he was. called, had enlisted in a Virginia Horse regiment about a year before, and he had already ac- quired a splendid reputation as a daring young pavalry, sol- dier. He was tall for his age, which was not quite eighteen, and ‘he could handle his sword and his uorse with the best in the troop. Before joining the cavalry regiment, Phil acted as a drum- mer boy with the infantry, living in the same tent with his father and mother, and he was then always known as Moll Pitcher’s boy. : Moll Pitcher was far better known in the regiment than her brave husband, as she was a sutler, and supplied the soldiers with various articles, such as tobacco, whisky, and other deli- cacies as they could afford. The American soldiers could not purchase many luxuries at the time, however, and they were very glad to get even food and rough clothing while battling against their rich and powerful enemies. The sergeant and his adopted son had scarcely commenced their early meal when a trumpet blast was heard in the dis- tance, and the two soldiers sprang up, the young man crying: “There goes the trumpet, mother, and I must away to mount.” ' “Take this flask and cake with you, my brave boy, and may heaven preserve you in the fight to-day!” cried Moll Pitcher, _ as she clasped the Jad in her arms. x “All right mother. Good-by for a While. Farewell, father, and let us give the English a fine drubbing to-day.” _ “We will, my boy, we will!" cried the old soldier, as he seized a flask and a cake_also\ ._ The young soldier. dashed away to the front, and he was + soon mounted and ready for the charge. , Moll gazed after him with doving eyes, and then turned to ; hier husband, saying: _“What’s your hurry, man, as the first drums didn’t beat yet, and sure the battle won’t commence until General Washiiaion comes?” ‘Sergeant Pitcher served in ie artillery, having charge of a ae “gun, and he replied: iE “General Lee may attack the enemy before our commander oll, and don’t forget my warning.” The. drums beat to arms at that, moment, and. the woman
Page 5
the , MOLL PITCHERS BOY. y the vigor that her dead husband could haye shown, as she encamped to the right of the line, and it was reported that it - ‘kept crying: had suffered severely while making two naete on the enemy “My brave man, I’ll avenge you to-day, and the English | early in the day. haven’t won the battle yet.” Moll had sent three messengers away to the camp to bring Pointing her gun at the enemy, Moll took the match and | her boy to his father’s wake, and none of them had yet re- applied it, erying: turned. ° “Blaze into them now, and may every ball I fire strike terror! Several officers had called on the eitace woman to coneie to the English dogs.” ment her on her glorious work, but she did not seem to heed Another wild cheer burst from those near, and word was} . their praises, as she was thinking only of her dead husband soon passed along the faltering lines that Moll Pitcher was and her absent boy, while she would respond to them in curt — working her dead husband's gun and fighting gloriously for | tones, saying: liberty. At that crisis the troops under General Lee had suffered severely while attacking the English line, and some of the regiments had been driven back in disorder. Moll Pitcher’s heroic action and soul-stirring words seemed to reanimate the patriots, however, and the stragglers rallied on all sides. On went the struggle, and then out along the line rang a name that was dear to all, as the word was passed from mouth “Sure, an’ wasn’t it my duty to take my poor man’s place when he fell beside his gun?” About nine o’clock a slight commotion took place outside the tent, and then a voice cried out: “Here comes General Washington!” “And is the general coming to the wake?” inquired Moll, as she arose once more and strove to arrange her hair. Before any one could reply a stately officer of martial bear- ; ing entered the tent with his head uncovered. ; to mouth: The rough woman made an awkward bow to the noble man, “Washington is coming!” | 28 she stammered forth: : Washington was coming to stay the tide of defeat, and to; “you are very welcome, general; and the poor sergeant) assail the English with redoubled vigor. makes a fine corpse for all.” With her dead husband still lying beside the gun, Moll, General Washington gazed at the, face of the dead soldier Pitcher fought throughout the day, only turning to gaze | for a few moments, and then replied in clear and solemn down at his pale face every now and again as she would mut- tones: ter aloud: “The poor fellaw gave me his last warning.” “All through that day Washington fought with his half-) he great general then turned and looked earnestly at the armed troops against: the well-supplied veterans of England, modest and heroic woman, as he inquired: ‘ and when night closed over jthe scene the Americans were: « Are you the woman known as Moll Pitcher?” masters of the field. “Sure and I am, good general!” Begrimed with smoke and powder, weary with grief and Washington bowed to the brave creature, and then reached her glorious exertions, and faint and hungry as well, Moll 94; his hand, as he exclaimed: t h . » t Pitcher rested at last to pay tribute to the heroic dead The rough woman made an awkward bow to the noble man, Slowly and sadly she walked after her husband, as friends) , : g Brave woman, would that all the men fought as well as a ae the dead body back to the tent, and still her Rha | you ‘to-day. \ 5, heard et your heroie conduct, and I assure you sss cha ale | that you will not be forgotten.” { “The poor man gave.me his last warning, and now we will Moll Pitcher dung eww’ Her head aa if aie had’ rénehved at give him a fine wake.” 5 > Moll si beper was the ciatale of be eth a that night. fear aa ie Sree ‘a speci tig ny sas uN “And, sure, general, what did I do at all, but to er the old man’s place for him and blaze away at the English?” _ ; A smile passed over Washington’s grave Mason gate and ‘i 5 CHAPTER Il. he responded, saying: a “THE Sonptmn’s LAST WARNING, ‘; bare ae ian hie Ze splendid effect, noble woman, : Washington pressed the hand within his own “once more, ye and he then turned to take another look at the dead: soldier, 1 as he remarked: = a “Yes, he died bravely at his post of duty, re his country will remember him.” ‘ \ ; j 4 General Lee was one of the leading officers in the American army at that time, and it is well known that*he was severely | ‘censured for his conduct at the battle of Monmouth. ‘Washington had planned for a glorious victory over the| | /4¢ will be buried with honors, and his widow will not> > “enemy, but the result of the struggle was not decisive, and| © forgotten by the country.” , 2 "General Lee was upbraided therefore. The grave chief was then turning to leave the Be wher Some accused him of cowardice, while others asserted that | Moll Pitcher addressed him, and earnestly inquired: i ‘he was ambitious and treacherous, and that he was in league| | 400d general, did you see my brave boy at all?” Rig with the English to betray our, country. Before Washington could reply, a cavalry officer” entered The erring general was removed from his command on the | the tent. and saluted the general. ce The officer then turned to Moll’ Pitcher and inquired: : pattle, and Washington compelled the enemy to fall Held of ba 5 e! “To be sure he is; and why ign’, he here at his father a ’ id not achieve the great victory that he had an- oe did not achi Brat 7 wake, at all?” Ais ¢ | Brave Moll Pitcher was seated beside the dead body of her} “I am sorry to tell you, Mrs. Pitcher, that 1 prisoner at the second charge made by the regime morning, | after he had ‘slain three « )
Page 6
1 4 MOLL ' Pitcher, tapes? PITCHER’S BOY. horse and severely wounded, I fear, while we were cutting our way through the enemy’s. dragoons on our retreat.” “My brave boy wounded and a prisoner,” groaned Moll as she ‘turned to gaze at her dead husband: “Oh, me poor man, I.mind your last eam sas now, and how can I save my brave boy?” is Washington had stepped out of the tent to mount his horse, and the young officer -replied: } “T am Captain Hardy, commanding the troop in which your boy served. I heard of your brave actions to-day, and I assure you, for your own sake, as well.as for your son’s; that I will do all in my power to rescue him.” “Many thanks to you, sir, and where do you think he is now?” “Tt presume he is a prisoner in the hands of the enemy, but I will soon find out for certain.” “How can you do that, sir?” _ “Three of our scouts have gone out to search for him,'as he ' was a great air estas with us all, and I hope to hear about him before morning.” “Was he badly wounded at all?” eagerly inquired the affec- tionate woman. -“T cannot say as to that, but I know that he -was knocked from his horse by an English dragoon as he was riding by my side in the fearful charge, and we could not pull up to save him.” i “Bad luck to that same English dragoon. And you say he knocked three of them over before they floored him?” “He did, There was not a braver man in battle to-day than Private Phil Pitcher, and the best compliment I can pay “him is to say that he is as brave as his mother.” The heroic woman blushed under the compliment, and then ‘stammered forth: “Don’t be talking that way about me, sir, for sure my boy could beat three like me any day in the week.” A tall, slight man of middle age, who was dressed in plain homespun garments, entered the tent at that moment, and -addressed Captain Hardy in cautious tones, saying: . “I have some news for you, captain.” “Then I will be out with you, Randy.” : The stranger in plain garments left the tent, and Captain Hardy followed him, while one of the goldiers present remark- ed to Moll Pitcher: “That's Randy Marvin, the eat spy. and scout in the whole army.” : y “Then I hope to goodness he has some news of my boy,” answered Moll Pitcher, “and then I'll give him the finest drop ENOL whisky he ever tasted in his life.” ‘“T hope he has, Moll.” The impatient woman hastened out of the tent, when she saw Captain Hardy and the spy br cae oa under a tree some dis- tance away. _ Running over toward them, she addressed the spy, and eae erly inquired: ’ ; : . “My good man, have you any news of my boy, good or bad, f hia I'll give you as fine a drop as ever went between a sol- _dier’s lips.” _ “He has news of your boy. But I wish ey would speak a little lower, Mys. Pitcher.” y et me ‘Moll Pitcher, if you please, as there is no non- “Yo r to is all safe fe the ‘Present, ee ‘poor husband ever said to me concerned this very rogue, and “Did you see bim at all?” “T did see him, and I would have tried to rescue him, only that he was not able to’move.” “Is he so badly wounded, then?” “He has received a pretty bad cut in the ieft arm and a Sno $2 two on the head; but he will be all right in a week or so,” , “Murder alive! And did you say he was a prisoder?? “Yes, he is a prisoner; but he seems to have fallen into good hands. ” apie “Isn’t he in the hands of the English, then?” “He is, as a troop of English dragoons hold the farmhouse where he is lying, but their captain has been very kind to him, as far as I could judge while prowling around there about an hour ago, and the people of the’ house are nursing him also. % “To be’ sure—to be sure!” responded Moll. “My brave boy — was always a favorite wherever he went.” The woman then started suddenly, and glared eagerly at oe spy. as she inquired: . “Did you say the English captain was ‘kind to him?” “He appeared to be, as I saw him ‘talking to Phil very nicely when I peered in at the window.” “Tell me now if you know the English captain’s name?” “T heard one of the dragoons address him as Captain Dar- ling.” A rude imprecation burst from the rough woman on hear- oe ing the name, and she then exclaimed in subdued tones: _ “Mother of Moses, how queer things. happen in this world. Captain Darling, Captain Darling, did you say?” Moll Pitcher seized the spy’s arm while asking the ques. tion, and he answered: ; " a “Yes, I am certain that is the English officer’s name who had command of the dragoons in the farmhouse.” a ae “How old a man was he, and what did he look like?” “He was a tall, good-looking young man about twenty- -five, with very dark features, and piercing black eyes. I didn’t — like his face much, as there was something snake line! and treacherous in it.” —~ “There is, there is! Oh, Captain Hardy, you sald you would . do anything to rescue my boy.” eeay “And I say so still,” readily answered the young officer. fe “And so do I,” responded.the spy. “Phil saved my ‘lite ar week ago in the bravest manner possible, and you can bet T i: z don’t forget it for him.” 7 Moll Pitcher became still more, animated, and she ease : the arm of each of the men, as she ne in the most earn- est tones: “Then I beg that you will help me in geting him out of the hands of the villain who has him now. The last words m the dread he had that Phil would fall into his hands. a ‘. The spy appeared to be surprised at the woman's ‘words, and he remarked: og “Why, it nBpeated to me i) Captain Darling was ery ‘friendly to the lad.” “Yes, yes—the serpent,” answered Moll. “Badd cess sais if I don’t start out at once to save my boy from somethin worse than death. Where is this farmhouse at all, Lotty, able to mount a horse?” ; oe have to tell you that it will be very ave rou ot 0 - are discovered.” “What for, at all?” “The casas took | particular no} (
Page 7
MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. am going to save my boy, if you will only show me the way there.” “One moment, good woman,” said Captain Hardy, as he drew the spy aside, “as I want to get some points from our friend here.” SiN _ “Hurry up, then, as I am all on fire to be away after my ‘boy. Ob, murder, murder! To think that I can’t stay at the wake to-night, and the poor sergeant to be buried early in the morning.” After consulting with the spy about fifteen minutes, Cap- tain Hardy turned to Moll Pitcher, saying: “Brave woman, if you will disguise yourself, my friend here will lead you to the farmhouse, and I will ask permission from the general to take a small troop of horse as an escort.” “Me blessings on the pair of you,” exclaimed Moll Pitcher, in fervent tones. “And now come into the tent to taste as fine a drop of whisky as ever wet a soldier’s lips.” The officer and the spy accepted the invitation, the latter saying: “Then we'll drink to the rescue of your boy.” CHAPTER III. ‘ “Wy IS AS BRAVE AS HIS MOTHER.” About eleven o’clock that night Phil Pitcher was sitting in the kitchen of an old farmhouse situated back from the high- way, and about five miles from the field of battle. A young country girl of sixteen was standing at the door looking out into the yard, and she turned to Phil, and re- marked: “They will soon be ready now, and some of the foot soldiers are moving along the road already.” “Come here, then, if you please, as I want to speak to you very much,” pleaded Phil, as he beckoned the young girl to- ward him. P The girl shut the door, and moved to the side of the young man, as she inquired: “What can I do for you?” “You can help me to escape, if you will?” _ “Law me, how can you escape with the English all around the house, and their captain swearing that he will take you away to New York with them. Besides, stranger, you are as weak as water, and your arm is helpless.” “IT am able to walk or mount a horse, my good girl, and I - will never forget you if you will help me to get away trom them. Aik e ““Vd be right willing to aut it if I knew how. Hush, as at lee comes their captain now.” _ The officer deseribed by the spy entered the kitchen at the ah moment, and addressed the prisoner, saying: ~ “Well, youngster, we are bound for the road now, and you ' must come along.” beg deep sigh escaped tion Phil, aan he answered in faint tones, saying: “Why don’t you shoot : ‘me at once, and be done with: it, as IT : am not able to ride a “horse to-night?” ‘ “Why, I don’t want- to: shoot you, and I propose to be the i best friend you ever had, Pitcher, as : have taken a great lik- Ai ing to you.” / ee & ; asking me to desert my, colors and pets with the enemies of rE Phil cast a scornful glance at the speaker, as he responded: “You. have taken a great liking to me, yet you insult me by “In any case, you are my prisoner, and you must march along with me,” retorted the officer in ugly tones. “If you — can’t ride on horseback we will put you in the ambulance — wagon, but you may be certain that you cannot escape by playing any tricks on us, as you will be well guarded.” ; “Then I will ride on horseback,” said’ Phil to himself, “as — I will have a better chance of escaping than I would on foot.” Speaking aloud, he inquired, in civil tones: “When de you start, Captain Darling?” “Tn less than ten minutes, as the infantry are passing along now, and we will bring up the rear.” A rough voice was heard outside, crying: “Where are you going, old woman?” i “I am going in here to seek a night’s shelter, and take your: hand off me, you big blackguard,” answered a eras voice with an Irish accent. “But it’s against the orders, you know, and you cane go. in there.” e “What order have ye to keep an old woman from having an” jnight’s shelter?” Phil Pitcher started on hearing the voice outside, as he knew at once that it belonged to the woman who pretended. — to be his mother, while he said to himself: “Thunderation! If that isn’t mother, and what a blamed risk to run for me!” The woman then pushed nee way into the kitchen, and Phil then noticed that she was well disguised. having all the ap- pearance of an old hag bent doubt with age. The pretended old woman stared around the kitchen until her eyes rested on the young girl, when she inquired: “Where’s the mistress, my purty colleen.” “My mother is asleep upstairs,” was the answer, “as she has been sick for some time. et “Then maybe you'll be after letting a poor crater stop here : for the night, and me blessings be on you? Oh, how my old 1 bones are shivering, though it isn’t a cold night at all.” While thus speaking Moll Pitcher moved up to the fire-~ place, where some logs were burning, passing close to her boy, : and she whispered to him on the sly; ; ‘ ; “Be on the alert.” \ ot Without waiting to receive permission, the ola ‘woman seat-. ie ed herself before the logs, and she then turned to the prisoner, — si saying: ‘Gan “And so you were in the battle to-day, my DaeR boy, judg ing by your arm?” 4 ; ‘ te 9) “I was, old lady.” “Don’t be calling me an old lady, as sure I am a poor lone widow woman without a soul belonging to me, barring a son who is a soldier like yourself.” - “Which side is he fighting on, old woman?” demanded Cap- tain Darling. “On the right side, of course, and what other side wot aes bravesIrish boy be on?” t “Tf he is fighting with the rebels, ra like’ to catch him an hang him, you old hag. # The old woman glared up at the officer as she growled forth
Page 8
6 MOLL Waa des Boy. te ee woman bent her head toward her son, after faeiaies felled the _ Officer to the floor. Holding the blazing log aloft in both hands, the brave creature dashed to the door, yelling: “Wire! Wire! Murder alive! Clear the way, or we'll all be roasted!” Phil Pitcher took the hint given him by his mother, and he seized a small log in, his make hand and dashed out after her, . yelling: “The house is on fire!” The soldiers on guard outside the door fell back in alarm ‘before the old woman and her son, while the young girl dash- ed out after them also, crying:.. “That old woman must be crazy, as the house isn’t on fire. Captain Darling sprang to his feet, at the moment, and he drew. his sword and a pistol, as he yelled: “Seize the prisoner, and take that old. woman, as she is San infernal spy.” About fifty dragoons were scattered around the yard and ‘in the stables, holding their horses ready to mount, when the sld woman dashed through them waving the burning log, making her way for a garden at the back of the farmhouse. Phil ran after her, brandishing his torch in the wildest manner, as he cried: “The crazy old hag has set the house on fire, and I’ll knock spots out of her for it.” The old woman had just gained the garden fence when Cap- tain Darling’s voice was heard, and several of the dragoons then sprang to. intercept her and the escaping prisoner. Moll Pitcher let fly at them with the burning brand and sprang over the fence, yelling: “What fine fun I had with the sogers, and figctah for the Yankee lads.” ; Phil was only a few steps behind at the moment, but three Ob the dragoons were springing at ‘him with their swords, while Captain Darling cried aloud: “Don’t strike the prisoner, but secure him.” The daring youth let fly to the right and to the left with ‘the burning brand, and down went two of the dragoons. i Then out went the lad’s right foot, and down went the third who opposed his way, while he sprang lightly over the fence, ' erying: “Hurrah for the Yankees every time, and death to the - English!” ‘Down the garden ait dashed the old woman, with Phil ‘close at her heels, while Captain Darling cried: “Some of you pursue the prisoner, but don’t fire at him. ‘Mount and get ready, and we will ride down the road to cut them off, as they are making for the rebel camp.” Before Moll Pitcher and her boy reached the foot of, the garden over a dozen men sprang up to their rescue, their _ leader crying: “Give one volley to ‘the redcoats, and then mount and away!” The speaker was Captain Hardy, and the men under init Sent. a volley at the dragoons who were pursuing Moll Pitcher and her son. In Jess than a minute after the brave woman and her boy were mounted on good horses and dashing along through a field with about twenty picked horsemen belonging to the ) young soldier’s troop. ¢ “Did you see my boy fight the ddanontts with one hand at all?” cried Moll Pitcher, addressing Captain Hardy. Ns a Fy is mother, and that is saying a good deal. Close ranks, boys, et as we have to cross the road down here, and the Hnglish are Wr aa Mes, I did; and I tell you-again that he is just as brave as We must vue our way through them, ' en cut ur way ‘through their whole army tonight, ot responded Moll Pitcher, “as I must get back with my boy to his poor father’s wake.” CHAPTER IY. MOLL STRIKES FOR HER BOY AGAIN. Captain Hardy and his men, under the guidance of the spy, had to make a detour around the English camp in order to reach the old farmhouse. On gaining that point the Americans perceived that the »{ English were making a silent retreat under the cover of the night. General Washington meant to attack the enemy in the morn- ing and win a yictory that would make Monmouth more fam- ous in history, but the English general concluded that retreat was his safest policy. On perceiving that retreat in operation, Captain Hardy and the scout were most anxious to return to the American camp with the information, but they must also rescue Moll Pitcher’s boy, as that devoted woman feared that Phil would be taken away as a prisoner. Having succeeded in rescuing the young soldier, through Moll’s bold movement, Captain Hardy decided to strike for the American camp in the most direct line. While Moll was operating the farmhouse, Randy, the spy, was prowng around close at hand and watching the move- ments of the retreating English. Bush) The keen spy perceived that the English infantry and ar- tillery were well on the move, and that their horsemen were forming to march in the rear. 2 / By hastening back with all speed, the active man argued, Washington would still have time to send his cavalry forward to harass the enemy in their. hasty retreat. And thus it was that Captain Hardy pushed his men toward the old road, 4 ‘ Captain Darling, on the Bnglish side, was fearfully enraged over the rescue of the young prisoner, and he was resolved on retaking him at all hazards. . The Englishman was a brave man and a good soldier, and ve he had his troopers under excellent discipline, while they were all smarting over the bold trick that had been played on them by the old woman and her friends. The ‘horses stood’ ready, and into the saddles sprang the eager troopers, while out rang the captain’s voice, saying: | s “Charge down the road on the double-quick and cut off © the Yankee rascals.” he! Fully fifty horsemen charged down with him, all vailiee like i . sO many mad men. e By that time the road was well cleared of the retreating. es foot soldiers, while the main® body of the English horses ah moved along well in the rear so as to guard the baggage wagons in case of hasty pursuit on Washington’s part. bi hat The Americans had the start in the race for the crossing point, but the English had the inside track as well as the — ; straight road. fy Captain Hardy and the scout rode in advance of their party, — ¥ with Moll Pitcher and her boy close behind them. a! The brave woman rode on a side-saddle, holding the bridle eh with her left ‘hand, and having a cavalry sword in the othe Phil Pitcher had received a sword and a pistol on mount ing, while his mother laughingly. said to him:
Page 9
~ ‘English! MOLL PITCHER’S ‘Boy. lines without encountering the enemy, as it was all important. for him to reach the American camp with the important news : as soon as possible. On reaching a certain point, however, he perceived Captain Darling’s troop dashing along to intercept them, and he turned to the intrepid scout, saying: “We must have a skirmish for it, Randy.” “It. ’pears like it, captain, but they ain’t only about two to one against us, and we’ll have at them in the centre, I suppose.” “That’s: the play. Close up in two columns, boys, end you drop in between, good woman.” “Not a drop will I fall back,” answered Moll. “ Stick to me side, my boy, and you’ll see how I’ll strike for you, if you can’t manage with the one hand.” “No fear of that, mother; but you had better fall behind.” “One of my name never fell behind yet in charging on the English. Heaven be the poor the sergeant’s bed to-night, and how he would glory in this work before us!” The English had gained the point of the wood for which the Americans were making, and the latter were not more than half a field away at the time. ; Captain Darling was most anxious to retake the young prisoner alive, but as he drew up his men he sang out to them: “We have the rascals now, and we will receive them with the cold steel. Spare the young prisoner and the old hag, but eut the others down to a man!” Moll Pitcher heard the order, and she yelled aloud: “Don’t spare me if ye can, ye villains, as I am the girl that laid some of ye low to-day with the big gun.” “Close ranks, and at them ‘with the swords, boys!” cried Captain Hardy. “Washington and Itberty is our battle cry!” “Washington and liberty!” yelled the Americans, as they rushed down on their foes. Over a small, stone fence leaped the good Virginia horses, and then right at the English troopers went their riders, Captain Hardy crying: “Burst through the centre, brave Virginians, and then wheel and fire!” “Down with the Yankee rebels!” cried Captain Darling, Hem strike for King George and Merry. England to the death!” Wild shouts burst out on both sides as they closed in mortal , strife, while high above the din Moil Pitcher, could be heard, as she cried: bgt strike for my dear boy and the good man I! lost to-d And Moll did strike with a vengeance as two of the ai troopers went down under her strong arm as they attempted to disarm and seize her. Captain Darling was a cool fighter, and he kept his eyes well around him during the heat of the struggle, in search of the wounded youth who interested him so much. Phil Pitcher was foremost in the struggle, and down went a tall dragoon who attempted to stay his progress, as he cried: “That helps to avenge my father!” Captain Darling heard this ery, and he made at Moll Pitch- er’s boy as he yelled to his troopers fighting around him: “Secure the young prisoner and rally around me, brave Here comes BS of our friends to aid us in slaying the Yankees.” \ A trumpet blast sounded at the moment from down the road. very slight loss, and they were dashing over the stone wall on the other side of the road when Phil Pitcher’s horse stumbled pane fell, flinging the half-helpless lad into the ditch. , Moll Pitcher’s horse had just cleared the leap and he was] — ; cates on with the Seners when Captain Hardy bier! in his addle, crying: ut eS one volley with the pistols: and then away!” ee and then pene away at full speed, across the fields, Moll ae. Pitcher crying: “We gave it to’ em that time, my boy, siniie Sigreaed in Irish, where is my boy at all?. Phil—Phil! Answer me!” The brave woman had not missed the wounded youth up to that moment, and fearful was her anguish at not receiving an — answer, while Captain Hardy drew her aside, crying: “We must retreat now, as fresh troopers dash along in force, Don’t be rash, woman, as they will hang you if taken.” Moll was striving to pull up her horse in order to return on the foes in search of her son, when Captain Hardy struck the animal on the back with his sword and sent him flying forward, as he kept erying: “We must ‘on to the camp. Look back and see that they are twenty to one against us now, and here they come in pur- suit. On, for your life, and we will save your boy yet!” The distracted woman was thus compelled to save her own life by flight, yet she roared out in anguish: at “My boy, my boy! To be killed or taken again after that brave fight for him!” Fully two hundred English troopers dashed along through the field in pursuit of the sy Sion Bo firing their pistols as they rode, while their leader shouted: “Bear down on the rascals before they can reach the Vanlked camp! Cut them to pieces to a man! Spur the horses to death, but cut off the infernal Yankees!” The “infernal Yankees” only laughed at the threat, as their fast Virginia horses bore them away with comparative ease. It would be difficult to portray \Moll Pitcher’s anguish that night as she rode to her tent, but the gallant Ceptaia Hardy consoled her by saying: “My good woman, Washington is certain to send out. a pur- ‘ suit of the English, and I will be in the front rank.”. “Heaven send that my boy is alive,” answered atoll, “and then I will be after him soon again, you may be sure.” “Randy Marvin has started back to dog the enemy and he .. will soon have news of your boy, who must have been taken ‘ prisoner, as you heard what the English captain said.” “To be sure I did, and I know what the villain is up to, too well.” aeons “Then; have a little patience and we will rescue the lad.” “Sure I want patience now, and I must have it; but do rot. know what I mean to do, good Captain Hardy?” “What is that?” “I’m going to put on a suit of my husband’s and ride with you again.” : “If you must, come along, and I will give you a fresh horse.” nd it was thus settled that Moll Pitcher should ride out ins quest of her boy again. That brave youth was insensible when ‘the English troopers _ raised him from the ditch where he had fallen. Captain Darling sprang from his horse and bent Over. the ey prisoner, as he cried: “T trust in fortune he is not dead!” “He's only stunned,” answered one of the troopers, “as Me can feel his heart beating. fe th) “Then bear him along to the farmhouse as gently as pos: ’ sible. I would sooner Pais my right hand than to see him “dead.” The troopers bore the 5 youth along the road, while one of them remarked: igs The Americans had cut their way through the English with | “Dang my buttons, if the captain is aot as ‘careful about the blasted Yankee as if he was a pretty lady in disguise.” : Sain’ v. Tap scour AND, THE MoRY. nas z Jd
Page 10
is aye . fighting means!” | Bngliah, MOLL PITCHER’S © BOY. We allude to the young girl at the farmhouse, whose name was Edith Grimes. i Edith’s father was one of the most bitter Tories in Jersey, and he had made an infamous name for himself by hunting down the patriots. The young girl, on the other hand, was true to her eountry, and she assisted the Americans whenever it was in her power. While the English held New Jersey, Captain Gideon Grimes, : as the Tory leader was called, robbed and maltreated his pa- triotic neighbors in a fearful manner, and he had enriched ‘himself with the spoils thus obtained. He had a band of about thirty rascals under him, each and all of whom were ever ready to commit crimes that deserved punishment by death at the hands of the patriots. When Moll Pitcher and her boy dashed out of the farm- house that night, with the burning logs, Edith Grimes watched them.as they retreated through the garden, clasping her hands in agitation as she muttered: “Oh, I do so hope that the poor young fellow will get away all safe!” : .She then stood at the front door watching the English troop- ers riding away in pursuit, when a rough voice from the kitch- en fell on her ear, crying: “Where are you, gal, and I a-wanting you so thundering bad?” ‘dith ran back into the kitchen, crying: “Here I am, father!” . That father was a tall, powerful man, still in the prime of life, who had the word “brute” stamped on his face from chin to forehead. His face was then covered with a rough, brown beard; he was dressed in the garb of a well-to-do farmer, save that he wore a belt in which a sword and a brace of pistols appeared. Flinging a couple of heavy bags on the table the Tory cap- ‘tain glared at his daughter as he demanded, in rough tones: - “Did you pack up, as I told you, and be ready for the road?” The young girl stared at the man in a frightened manner as she stammered: forth: “Dear me, father, you didn’t mean for me to go-to New York with you and leave mother so sick here?” “Hang your mother! You can bet I meant it! Pack up at once and be quick about it, as the wagons will start right off.” “But who'll tend to mother?” “Let her rebel neighbors tend to her. The great George _ Washington is marching along with his army, and you can’t ' stay here.” “But, father, she is——” “Pack up, I say, and don’t give me any of your sass, or I’ll give you a blamed good licking! Thunderation, is that the _ Yankees on us?” The sounds of the conflict were borne along at the moment, and the Tory darted out of the back door, yelling: “You fellows ‘out there, hitch the horses to the wagons right smart, and one of you ride down the road to see what that Gideon Grimes listened at the door for a few moments, and he then returned to the kitchen, crying: “You blamed gal, ain’t you set about getting your things ready yet? Here come the Yankees now, and we must get!” “Tt is only a fight between a small party of patriot horsemen and the troopers who were quartered here, sir, and we have ; ime enough; but you will not take me from poor mother?” “You'd better do as I say—that’s all.” The man: seized the girl by the arm as he spoke and aOK er. in a fierce ‘manner, hated he fone in niegine ‘eu ia Cae ii ak York that you must help me in, ‘You noticed that Gideon Grimes aside and conversed with hit be very ‘subdued “Well, he’s rich and the son of a lord. I’ve made a pile, lately, and I’m going to take the gold and other booty to New York with us. What would you say to marrying that English captain, gal?” “T wouldn’t like it a bit.” “You git out! You'd be a great lady over in Hngland; and you can bet l’ll work it, as I hold a secret of his.” “But I don’t want to leave mother.” p “Darn your mother. By the way, did you see your Uncle Randy Marvin hanging around here this evening?” “I did not.” “Well, he was, spy again and I’d roast him alive! knock thunder out of you!” While thus threatening, the ttigit brute flung the voutie girl away from him and then hastened out into the yard to push 6n with the retreat. Hidith hastened upstairs to her sick mother, who was then watched over by a rough,! country girl named Sally Friend, whose father was serving with ‘the patriots. Sally was about eighteen; she was as ugly as a Hessian, as strong as a three-year-old colt, and fully as wild and as vicious. This cunning girl was a spy on the household and on the neighboring patriots, working in. the interest of the Tory leader against her father’s friends, and she.hated Edith Grimes. Edith whispered some words to her mother that could not be overheard by the female spy, and Mrs. Grimes answered aloud, saying: “Tt is your duty to go with your father, and Sally, ko bn will tend to me.” Loud voices were soon heard below, and then the Tory leader: eried out: j “Are you ready yet, gal?” Hie Edith embraced her mother and then hastened downstairs, with a small bundle, as she replied: “T am ready.” On reaching the kitchen the young gir! started ‘Ae in sur- prise on seeing Phil Pitcher seated on a chair, aie her father and Captain Darling standing before him. . Be The young patriot looked at Edith for a moment, and he Hhene spoke to Captain Darling im manly tones, saying: “T am in your power, but I bet my friends will rescue me again ‘very soon,” ; “IT trust not, for your own sake, as petiae fortunes will aye yours—in the service of your king.” “Your king is not my king, and I will live and die’: a rebel!” 6 ~“We'll see about that. Who was that old woman who came here after you?” . t “That was my mother, the brave woman who took my dead_ father’s place at his gun to-day. . Do you think you can male’ a Tory of the son of such a woman?” - ‘Captain Darling did not answer the question, put he rege I only wish I got my hands on the tarnal Get ready, quick, or I’ { tones. ; i i As the English scout in the rear r reported that Washington as} was not putting him army in motion to pursue them, Captain — Darling and the Tory captain did not hasten their movements, — Edith soon ‘approached as Pitcher and addressed sr in gentle tones, saying: -“[’m so sorry you didn’t escape, stranger. 2, ‘poh felt the gidlsnpinyat eee on. him, and he responded if him:. caleee “I may do so yet if you will help THO: pai la “How can Ido that?” nD aa TASC «“y understand that spe are going to N ‘ogepe ee
Page 11
coming on?” a ree “You are going to ride in the same wagon with me, your father says.” “Well, and if I am?” \ “Haven't you an uncle named Randy Marvin?” “T have, and he is a good man. He is mother’s brother, and he was hounded almost to death here because he is on the right side.” “Then I want to tell you that Randy Marvin is my good | friend. He was here to-night to rescue me, and I am certain he will come back to try. it on again.” “T hope not, as father, there, has sworn to put him to death,” “Randy doesn’t care for-——” “What is that jawing about?” cried Captain Grimes, as he advanced to interrupt the young folks. “Get out into the wagon, gal! Young fellow, you get into the same wagon, and you'll be all-fired smart if you escape from Gideon Grimes! ” Four country wagons were soon rolling along the road, sur- rounded by the Tory band. Captain Darling rode on ahead with his men, while another party of dragoons brought up the rear. The wagons were loaded with spoils secured by Captain Grimes and his band, During the night Phil made one bold attempt at escaping, but the Tory captain was on the alert, and the brave young -fellow was dragged back to the wagon again, Grimes crying: “We will tie your legs now, youngster, and then try it on again.” Phil did not try it on again that night, but he was not subdued. ? The wagons traveled on slowly in the rear of the English army,’ the scouts still reporting that een was not in pursuit. On the following evening, while the Tories were resting near a small village on the road to New York Sally Friend rode in . among them. After the treacherous gifl told Wdith that her mother was in good hands, Captain Grimes drew her aside and eagerly inquired: ‘ “Did you work it, Sally?” “T came blame near doing it, but that tarnal Randy Marvin ‘sneaked to the house as it was blazing and dragged your ole woman out of the flames.” Gideon Grimes groaned, and then swore fearfully at the patriot spy, while he inquired: " “Did he suspect you?” ‘“T think not, as I pretended to the old woman that I was away for brandy when the fire broke out.” “Then why did you come on after me until you tried it on again?” . “T come on to tell you that Randy is sneaking on here after you, as he is dead bent on rescuing that young rebel there in the wagon.” “Thunder he is! Well, let him come and I’ll make it hot for him. Did you strike him on the road here?” “Nary a strike, as he’s too’ smart to take the public way I rode.” “What excuse did you give ‘the old woman—blame her—for “I said as how you took ae money He, and I was bound to have it.” ‘“You’re a smart one, Sall, Now, you get back in the morn- | ine and fix the old woman with a dose Pll give you; then ome to Bee York and stick to Baith till our game bie Med MOLL PITCHERS Bor. our] | one Pe “Nerra a back out in. me, ‘Glé gal. i J Y anes look out for-Randy Marvin, as I tell you he’s a smatt on A know it; but T’ll fix the skunk if he ventures here. Go, and be soft to Hdith now, and keep your eye on the young. "prisoner, as he is our best card in the big game.” The Tory captain was very much troubled about the news he had received. He hated his. brother-in-law intensely, and he had reason to fear the brave spy as well. ; They had been sworn enemies for year’s as Randy was down on Gideon Grimes on account of the manner in which the rascal treated his wife, while the Tory responded by driving the patriot from his home when the war broke out. Feeling uneasy that night, Gideon examined his pistols care- fully and stole out of the camp, muttering to himself: > “Randy is good on the sneak game, and I'll just ee on” the lookout for him.” : The Tory was stealing along through a wood near a side road, when he heard a merry voice singing a negro melody, and he paused to listen as he said to himself: “That’s a nigger, and I’ll just see if he saw sad oe of the skunk hanging around.” The Tory then sprang out on the road and confronted an_ old negro, crying: “What are you doing out so late, you black thief?” The old negro drew back in evident alarm, and then an- swered, in very humble tones: “Beg pardon, massa; dis ole coon am only agowan down to de camp.” That old negro was no other than the dreaded’ patriot spy, and it remains to be seen if his more enemy would recognize him. CHAPTER VI. Re aR AS MOLL PITOHWR ARTER HER BOY AGAIN. i Baha There were slaves ii New Jersey at the time of the Revolu- __ tion, and the negroes in general were kept in subjection. Gideon Grimes was a natural tyrant, and he believed in treating most men in a rough manner, out of mere wickedness. Something in the voice or the manner of the pretended negro £ fs before him raised his ire, and he sprang forward and seized a file him by the throat, crying: ao “You tarnal old black imp, I believe you are asta the spy. i on us, and you'll come right down to the camp with me.” he The old fellow made a slight resistance at first, aie ome that his disguise had been penetrated, but he soon became ial iy humble as before, and he left himself pliant in the hands gr the rough Tory, as he: mentally said: { a “What a chance this would be for killing the > snake; at ttf) + wouldn’t serve my purpose at present.” i Bs When Gideon Grimes found that the old ROEEO went auietl as he said to the} old fellow: a) “See here, old coon, where do you corhegtronte fs) jase 2 “From up the road dar, massa, as I libes wid ole Asheah: fob- son.” “Did you see any stranger hanging nn to-nigh Before the question could be answered an active | ng | ont from the edge of the wood and a voice exclaim ‘i “Bad, luck to you, ee bee and ite that or ab
Page 12
10 MOLT using it had all the appearance of a rough Irishman of middle ; some good rum.” age. The blow given was a very heavy one, and it stunned the Tory leader for the time. PITCHERS BOY. pe ae “Sartin, massa, I’se’a-gowan this berry minute, only I’se got “Then let us taste it.” The old darky drew a black bottle from his Heese and The disguised spy bent over him on the instant, drawing a, handed it to the Tory. strong cord from his pocket at the same tine as he quietly remarked: “That wasn’t just the game, Moll, but we’ll make it work now that we got him.” The disguised woman, who was no other than Moll Pitcher, stared down at the insensible man, holding her stick ready to give him another crack, as she replied: “On my faith, but I thought he had the best of you.’ who is he at all?” “Gideon Grimes, the infernal villain I told you about.” “Blood and thunder, I am sorry I didn’t give him a harder welt while I was about it; and stand back and I’l) give it to him now!” ‘ “No, no; never strike a man when he is down. Help me to And ‘get him into the wood here.” “Who would strike a man when he is down? And don’t you be calling him a man from what. you told me yourself!” “He is a bad man, but it doesn’t serve us to kill him at present, % While they were thus speaking, Moll Pitcher and her friend were dragging the Tory into the wood, the spy having secured his weapon. F i When Gideon Grimes recovered his senses again he found himself tied to a tree and with a gag in his mouth. Not a living being appeared near him, and he was so tightly bound that he could scarcely turn his head around, while it was impossible for him to utter a word. “Snakes alive!” he said to himself, “this must be Randy -Marvin’s work. He must have tackled me while I was fooling with that oid nigger. to, and what can be his game?” The stout Tory captain trembled a good deal, as he knew But where in thunder ean he have gone \ i that if in the power of his brother-in-law he could not renee any mercy. \ About that same time the pretended old negro strolled care- lessly into the Tory camp, which was situated on the outskirts of the regular encampment. It was still quite early in the night, and only those who were weary after the journey had retired to rest. Phil Pitcher was reclining in one of the wagons, surrounded , by, four of his Tory guards, and his legs were tied together : with strong cord, one end of which was held by a rough- looking Tory. : se : ‘Hdith Grimes was standing at the side of the wagon giving the young prisoner a drink of water as she said to him: “T spoke to father, and he says he will be easier on you if you give me your word of honor not to try to escape again.” “YT won’t do Ry vome of the kind,” answered the young prisoner in loud tones. , “What in thunder ied you doing around here, old nigger?” cried one of the guards as pene disguised spy so. bipit ale the wagon. “I’se doing nuffin’, massa,” answered Randy Marvin. Phil Pitcher started on hearing the voice as he recognized the tones” on the instant, and he stared at the old darky while i ‘drinking the water as he said to himself: ‘ sy knew Randy wouldn’t forget me, and E ll bet mother ain t fe off either. ne tn their wisbnel ‘as if he’ had never seen a camp of the kind | while he muttered aloud: The man raised the bottle to his lips and drank the contents, when a loud voice fell on their ears, crying: “Where’s the captain, at all, as I want to see him to ‘list for a soger?” When Phil Pitcher heard that voice his heart bounded to his mouth and he mentally exclaimed: “Dear mother! And how could she be, so foolish as to risk so much for me!” One of the Tories addressed ite rough Irishman in saucy tones, crying: “And so you want to be a soldier, Paddy?” “To De sure I does, and maybe I could handle a gun with the best of you. be The entrance of the Irishman withdrew attention from the old negro, who was handing the bottle around to the other Tories guarding the wagon. : ? Edith Grimes still stood near the young prisoner, handing him a piece of bread as she quietly remarked: “That man’s voice sounds like your mother’s, put I suppose I think so on account of the brogue.” Phil could only use one hand, and. he grasped the girl’s with it as he whispered to her: : “It is my mother. If you are my friend, now, give them a hand when they set to work.” “And who is the black fellow?” “That is your Uncle Randy.” “Gracious me!” exclaimed the young girl, in dittanien tones, as she stared at the old negro, “to think that he sate. come here in that shape, and father around!” “Where is your father?” Bere “He went out of camp a while ago, and that saucy girl went after him. I am glad she is not here or she’d know, my Uncle Randy’s voice, for she is just as sharp as the edge of an axe.” Two of the Tories were quizzing the Irishman, and the black bottle was still passing around among the others, when Gideon Grimes sprang suddenly in among them and seized a gun. from the hands of one of the guards, to present it at the Row ; ‘guised spy as he roaréd out: “Hands up, you tarnal rebel, as I’ve got you dead to rights now!” . “What am de matter, massa?” inquired the old negro,idin apparent astonishment, as he glared at the rough Tory, draw- ing back a step or two. ‘ ; aie “Now is the time to cut the cords on my legs! % whispered Phil Pitcher to the young girl. 33 “Yes, yes, I'll do it; but I am afraid father will shoot Uncle et Randy.” ay While thus speaking, and while the athenition of the cua were directed to the pretended old nigger and their captain, the patriotic ae cut the ened one secured the young Fellow ae legs. f Phil slipped out of the wagon on the instant that the Tory . captain was addressing the spy and erying: © : “J have got you fast now, you skunk! Tellers, that old Hie, aon” ger is Randy Marvin. Grab him while I keep the gun at my and he is a dead coon if he offers to raise a hand!” ; The spy did not offer to raise a hand in his own behalf, but “a some one else did. : Moll Pitcher had an eye on her ba in the wagon md the daring spy as well. — a ra She saw the dear ste fellow rising to his téet and sli ing
Page 13
MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. Pee * 1g : =f with her stick, dealing him another blow on the head as ‘quick -as lightning, as she cried: “Now for it, my brave boys!” CHAPTER VII. A RUCTION IN THE CAMP. Two of the Tories were about to spring on the disguised spy when Moll Pitcher used her heavy stick with such good effect. The gun in the hand of the Tory leader exploded, the ball fiying up in the air and the discharged weapon was in the grasp of the spy, who sprang forward to seize it on the instant. Moll Pitcher turned to her boy like a flash and handed him the sword which had been taken from Gideon Grimes in the wood, as she said to him: “Lay about you like blazes now, my boy, and then cut for it with us!” 7 The spy was-already laying about him with good effect, as he stretched two of the Tory guards on the ground in a lively manner. x The four guards around the wagon were already stupefied ' by the drugged liquor given them by the spy, and they were easily knocked over by Moll Pitcher and her boy. i The other Tories lying around sprang to their feet, however, on hearing the discharge of the gun, and they hastened to seize their weapons, one of them yelling: “The rebels are on us!” The rebels were on them, but not in great force, as only Moll Pitcher and her two friends dashed at them to fight their way out of the camp, the former crying:. “Here’s a fine ruction for you, and bad luck to the villain who stands before us!” At that moment Sally Friend sprang on the scene, crying: “Snakes alive, what’s all this row about?” The three patriots had then reached the edge of the camp, knocking down all who opposed them, while Moll Pitcher kept crying: “Clear the’ way for the patriot boys, and down with the vil- -lains of Tories! sa Gideon Grimes sprang to his feet Fist as Sally reached his |. side, and he stared around in a dazed manner for a moment. The girl grabbed him by the arm and shook him roughly, as she inquired: “What in thunder’is the matter, Gid?” “Matter enough! Give me a weapon. Rally there, you fel- lows, and after those skunks! ” The Tory leader seized a gun lying near and dashed after _ Moll and her friends. ¥ The brave woman, her boy and the spy were then dashing out of the small wood where the camp had been formed, and some of the. Tories were running after them, uttering yells of alarm. ' The soldiers in the English camp close by responded to the cries, and Captain Darling ran toward tice scene, as he yelled ~ aloud: cee f j Hs “Whai’s the trouble here, Grimes?” "The Tory leader was then running along, after his followers, he yelled back: [he young prisoner has escaped! This way, heated if you want 10 take him again. Call out your mounted men and the 8 cannot get away from us.” Ne Ss a mp after him. Ale ‘ned and ale orders to mount the ae at once, | to us soon, you can bet. Darling yelled out for his troopers as loudly as he} and some of them on foot were Foshinie hastening mone i ‘boy iste: is” mabe: beat out,” ies “Bring out my horse, and follow us in the chase as you hear — the cries!” All the Tories in their camp who had not been disabled were then out in chase of the fugitives, with their leader, all yelling like so many hounds after a fox. Sally Friend darted on close beside Gideon Grimes as she said to him: “Wasn't that Randy Marvin’s voice I heard in the row?” “Yes, yes, the fiend fire him! But he must not escape from us now, nohow!” “And is the young prisoner with him?” “Yes, blame them! And that tarnal Irishman is in the crowd.” “Tg there only three of them in all?” “That’s all I*see so far.” “Then how in the world did they get the best of your whole crowd that way?” “Don’t ask me any foolish questions now, but Meee on with me. Have you any pistols?” “Yes, I have two here.” “Then Bive me one and hearken to be I have to say to you. ” “What is it, Gid?” “When we strike on these villains I’ll tackle the Irishman | and lay him out, and you fix Randy Marvin, who is rigged up as an old nigger.” Snakes alive. I saw the old nigger going into the camp a while ago.” 2 Y : “That’s him.” “What about the young feller, Gid, if we should strike on them soon?” “Don’t hurt a hair of his head, as he will be worth a fortune The fellers ahead must have lost the track now, as they ain’t yelling any more, but we’ll soon strike on it again.” The Tories ahead had lost the track, or rather a view of the ate fugitives at the time. On leaving the Tory camp Randy. Marvin led his friends straight toward the wood where they had secured Gideon ‘Grimes to a tree. + On entering that wood they wheeled to the left and ran along — close together, the daring spy saying to Phil Pitcher: , “Tf you can keep on at this rate, young fellow, we’ll soon get to the horses and then we'll Pasi at the blame fools be= “fy hind us.” - oP “Where are the horses, good Randy?” : oe : “At a friend’s of mine about two miles along up here.” “Are they good ones?” “The best you can find.” ¢ “Tl wager my life on that, my Ee: said Moll Pitcher, as she clapped Phil on the back. ; ; “You are awful brave, mother.” 3 “Who in the mischief wouldn’t be brave when fighting for such a boy as you are? And how is your arm, at all?” 3 “A little sore, but it will be all right in a week or so.” bag ot “And then you must have a crack at that villain, Cs Darling.” er Phil drew up a little to gain if seai: as he was weak from his wounds and from os close confinement wee in the Tory 2 wagon. The kind woman noticed it, and she seized his right support him, as she said: ; “My poor boy, you are not strong at all; but che we'll soon. be to the horses.” 3 Phil drew a long breath, while the spy Bata: to , “Don’t talk too much, and take lp a Hits easy don’t hear them after us. 2 “Then let us walk a little, ” said Mon Pitche 4 . ee
Page 14
oe ~ ea Pee eS ee NI ee te Ee - Pre 12° MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. °- “Not at all,:mother; and £ want to ask, you a question or | , two.” | * “Why not wait until we are all safe, my boy?” “That’s just what I want to be prepared for.” “Then here’s two pistols for you, and they'll help you against the villains.” Phil took the pistols from his mother, serious tones: “Did you ever know this Captain Darling, mother?” The woman hesitated to reply, thinking of the pledge she had made in former years. The young fellow noticed the hesitation and turned to look at the woman as he inquired: _ “Why don’t you answer me, mother, as I have reasons for asking the question?” “What are your reasons, at all?” “This English captain pretends to be a great friend of mine, and he has offered me big inducements to go to England with him’ when the war is over.” The villain of the world! “at all?” “I told him to go to thunder, as he also wanted me to fight on the English side.” and then inquired, in And what did you! say to him, The cries were growing nearer and nearer, at the moment, and the woman was becoming more excited. f Phil reached down ies hand to her and pressed hers as ee said: “Away with you two now and save yourselves, and I will be | safe up here.” “Come along, Moll,” said the spy, “as it is our oa ee if we would save your boy hereafter.” / Being thus appealed to Moll Pitcher hastened on with the spy, as she groaned forth: “V’ll kill every Hnglishman I’ll meet for a year ‘and a day if anything happens my dear boy.” Phil Pitcher dragged himself higher up in the tree with his sound arm, as he said to himself: “Did any boy ever have a braver mother in his life, and how good Randy Marvin is! Ah, here come the infernal Tories now, with Gideon Grimes and that ugly-looking girl. ahead of them.” , Gideon Grimes and-Sally Friend were soon running along under the tree with the howling Tories after them. Out on the road running parallel with the path in the wood ‘rode Captain Darling and fifty of his troopers, keeping the “That’s right, my Shi boy. Stick to your colors always, ; and one. thing more.’ i “What is that?” , “Tf it should ever happen that you meet the villain again, treat him as, you would a snake.” : “TI took a great dislike to. him from the first, and I was, wondering why he appeared to take such a liking to me.” “Hurry up your cakes,” again said the spy, “as I hear the | villains after us, and they have horses with them this time.” The Tories and their allies had got on the track of the | H tf fugitives, as Gideon Grimes was an old Indian fighter, and he a: jeould track human footsteps through the forest by day or ‘ night. ’ { . The fugitives ran on as fast as possible, but it was soon evident that Phil Pitcher was becoming exhausted. The brave woman at his side supported him as well as she | eould, and so did the hardy spy, but yet their pursuers gained on them rapidly. ; “Thunder and lightning!” exclaimed Moll Pitcher as she heard the yells growing louder and nearer, “it is a murdering ‘pity that’ we didn’t bring the horses to the wood here for the _ poor boy.” 5 sSIit; is a pity we haven't a troop of our boys ‘with us,” re- sponded Phil Pitcher, “and then we'd give the rascals more than they want.” “Qaptain Hardy is not more than ten miles back,” ‘said the ‘spy, “and he would have been along with us, but General Washington gave orders not to push beyond New Brunswick.” - Phil staggered at the moment, pressing his right hand to his heart as he gasped forth: 3 ee am used up, mother!” miche “Try a drop of this liquor, then,” said the anxious woman _ as she put a flask to the young fellow’s mouth. i Phil sipped some of the liquor and then said: “J feel better now, and let us on.”: The spy felt the boy’s pulse, helping him on the while, and he kept listening to the yells behind them. Th won’t: work,” said Randy Marvin, in decided tones, ust try another game.” pre and fight them,” said Moll Winasge flour- | the moment, and the Tory yelled aloud: bir T ah, erent of the fugitives by the cries that resounded through } ' the forest. .On before them and making for a friendly farmhouse, dashed’ the spy and Moll Pitcher, the former saying to the never-tiring fa woman: “We'll get the best of them now, Moll, if we only coy to mount and away.” ‘time 4 “But sure you don’t mean to ride away from Ty, boy arid, tn ie leave him up that tree?” “Not much. We'll scoot around with a spare horas and fool the villains behind us.” 2 “If you do that and bring him off safe, I’ll ranks you drunk for a week after we get get back from the camp.” “Thank you, Moll, but I hope I'll not be' idle for a week, — as I want to do good work for General Washington in New York before that time.” M They had just gained the edge of the wood, where they seat : be compelled to break out in an open field in Ones) Ai gain the friendly farmhouse, tu Gideon Grimes and his party were close behind him. at the time, the Tory leader suspecting where the spy was making fo ( from the fact that he was also acquainted with the toward whose house the fugitives were flying. F ; Moll and her friend dashed across the field at full a the former saying: “We'll beat them in the chase, anyway, as I could always Hi run like a deer.” ‘ “There are the horsemen out on the road!” bata the Spy, “and keep under the shelter of the fence here.” Ee | Gideon Grimes and Sally reached the edge of ihe wood a " 7 “There’s only two of them there now, and the wither” must Ee be broken down back in®the wood. Back with you fellows and — Ms look for him, while I set Captain Darling: and his troopers the skunk of a spy and ah other!” ' CHAPTER VU.
Page 15
Ba ; ae MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. He noticed Sally Friend running along with the Tory leader, . but he could not recognize the girl.in the dim light as he ane to himself: “Can it be that Edith Grimes is after me also, and she pre- tending to be such a friend?” While thus muttering he noticed another female form under the very tree on which he was resting, and then a faint voice ‘ fell on his ear, saying: “Oh, dear me, how tired I°am; and/I do so want ve see if We has escaped!” Phil recognized,.the voice at once. The girl was regking against the tree and panting for breath, while thus exclaiming, and Phil then knew that he had to deal with a friend. Lowering himself from the LL saphone e he cast his own voice down, as he said: “T am up here, Hdith!” The young girl started on hearing the voice above her, and then looked up to perceive the youth.descending, while she said to him, in joyous tones: “Oh, I’m so glad they didn’t catch you. ee hadn’t you better stay up there for the present?” “No; as I want to be on the ae again now that I have recovered.” The young fellow had lowered himself to the ground, and he was then standing beside the girl, who said to him: “But they may return this way, and others may come along after them.” “Then let us move away here to the right, if you don’t mind.” “I don’t mind at all if you can only get away from father and his crowd in Safety.” “You can bet I can!” They were then pushing through the wood to the right. They were both silent for a time, as they were listening to . the yells and cries of those who were then in full chase after the other fugitives. ‘They had not proceeded far when the young girl placed her hand on Phil’s arm, saying: “Do you per what I am thinking about?” “T can’t say.’ ; “What do you say if we make our way back toward the eamp?” is “What for?” “Then I will try to steal out two of the horses, and we can vide back toward home on the main road, if you are strong a enough.” “Tt is a splendid idea, my dear girl; but. won't your father “be. down on you for At 22! “T don’t care for that as I want to go back to my sick mother, and I don’t want to go to New York with father.” a “Then let us turn back through this path, only I am troubled + about my mother and your uncle.” “They'll get away, and we'll find them on the road back.” ‘The two young friends then hastened back to the path as . fast as they could. _ On gaining tle edge of the wood, looking toward the Tory ie i. camp, Edith left her companion, saying: . , ¥ “You can bet I’ll bring two good horses out this way, and then we'll be off on the main road!” af a bless you if you’ do!” answered Phil, in very earnest 4 es. a; ; ae three men were left in’ the ROLS camp when Edith of horsemen scooting along after them.” « “The row has been that the prisoner has escaped and father and the others are away after him now on foot.” 1 a “What are you going to do with them horses?” i ‘ “Tam going to take father’s horse to him, back the road there, and I want one for myself”. “Did he send you back for them?” “What a question to ask, Tom Nash! take them if he didn’t?” “All right, then.” Edith had no trouble in leaving the camp with the horses. Mounting one of them, having fixed the stirrup so as to. ride side-saddle fashion, she rode her own father’s good horse straight across to the spot where Phil awaited her. The eager young fellow was on.the alert, and he sprang on the saddle with the greatest ease, although his left arm pained very much. Before leaying the Tory camp Edith slipped two pistols in her pocket, and she secured a sword also. When she presented the. weapons to Phil, she said to isa? “I hope you may not have td use them against father, but don’t spare any of the others.” “Phank you, my girl. Keep one of the Saistars, as you may want to use it, and my mother gave me one. I'll keep the sword and use it, you can bet, if it is necessary.” They dashed along the main road, side by side, and they were soon out on a line with the edge of the wood where Moll Pitcher and the spy made a run for the friendly farm- house. The side road ‘was about a mile anda half away at that point, and they could not see anything of the troopers or the © Tories. While riding along they kept their Pes well ahead of them, and to the right and to the left also, and they soon espied the friendly farmhouse. At that moment loud yells were borne to their ears, and ut the young man said: j “They must have struck on the trail of mother and Randy Marvin.” “Here comes some one riding along here now,” pesookaetl the girl, “and there are. two of them.” fr G ' “Draw aside here into the wood, then,” said Phil, as he sori his horse into the shelter. ! The two horses sprang into the wood: and their riders halted them to peep out along the road at the oncoming riders, who. were galloping at a furious rate. his “They are pursued,” said ‘Phil, “and ru bet te 4 lite it is” Do you suppose I'd of, ‘mother and Randy!” “We'll soon see,” answered the girl. “Now I can see a lot Phil pushed his horse near to the edge of the wood to wate 1 the chase, and the girl drew out with him, saying; ° Hi sigs “Don’t go out if you can help it.” “Certainly not.” { ? The fugitives were soon near the edge of the read and one of them sang out at the moment: © a “Into the wood for it and we will find the boy mighty” y 4? quick!” ' , 1 areas Phil recognized the speaker at ‘Ones, as it was Randy Marvin, + who was leading a spare horse in the chase. ; ia The other, was” Moll Pitcher, who insisted on returning at once in search | of her boy. the. road, crying: : “tf ‘Here I am, mother, and. aa good sie wi -| my friend.” “Ride on—ride on, then! | people, dashed 0 _ All four dashed back
Page 16
id | MOLL PITCHERS BOY. | | a hoee ~ “Who are those hae us, Randy?” cried Phil, as he looked back. “Some of the British troopers who darted out on us above there as we were returning this road.” “How are you mounted, my boy?” inquired Moll Pitcher. “First-rate, mother.” ; “And the girl?” se “She has got a good horse under her also.” “Then we'll swerve to the left here!” cried the spy, “and steer back again, as we are gaining on the troopers like fury, now!” “Halt, out there!” rang out a sharp voice as Gideon Grimes and seven or eight of his men sprang out on the road in front of the riders. “Blaze away at the villains, and on with you!” cried Moll . Pitcher. The spy’s pistol was out ‘before Moll Sens, and one of the Tories fell before him. Phil fired a moment after, and another dropped on the ground. ‘ While thus firing the Rowen were not pulled up, but urged on the faster, and right down on the Tory band swept the four riders. A yell of rage burst from Gideon Grimes as he was flung _ aside on the road with another blow from Moll Pitcher’s BSE, and he cried: “Fire at them! away with them, and don’t shoot her! Darn your eyes, why did you fire so soon? Good, good; you hit the right horse, and the youngster is down again!” : Phil Pitcher was in bad luck that night, as the horse he was riding had been hit by the only ball the Tories had fired at him. With a yell of rage Moll pulled up and she wheeled around, saying: “The spare horse, you villain, and up- with the brave boy again!” Randy Marvin had already turned with the spare horse and , Edith was pulled up also. 2 ' Phil sprang to the ground as the horse staggered and fell under him, and he ran to meet his friends, crying: “Better luck next time, mother!” The Tories dashed along the road toward their leader, erying: “Don’t fire, or you'll hit my gal or the young fellow! But one of you pick off that black devil, and another try for the Irish fellow.” “It's dangerous, cap,” answered one of the men, , “as they are all mixed up together just now.’ “That's so; and.here come the troopers!” Captain Darling and his trogpers dashed along at the mo- ment and Gideon Grimes yelled to the officer: “That’s my daughter and the young prisoner ahead, there, Captain Darling, and spur like thunder and you'll grab the ‘others, too!” Phil Pitcher had just sprang on the spare horse, and away darted the four friends again, while Gideon Grimes cried out: j “Wdith, Hdith, pull up, there, and don’t let them take you off that way!” + { = While thus speaking the Tory leader dashed on after the : troopers until he reached the spot where the horse had fallen, and he stood to look at the animal as he yelled out: Bisa and fury, if this isn’t my own black stallion that’s the mischief did the younk skunk get him out ‘ pected as much this evening!” No, no; that’s my gal they are whipping we had to do it.” y Captain Darling kept close on after them, while his toon: soon lagged behind. riders could ride abreast again. you can keep on the saddle.” Dane “It is the truth, as sure as you are a born man; and I sus- : FT wee “Then why didn’t you say so, confound you?” : “T hadn’t time, Gid. Don’t get so riled and I’ll fool them yet.” “How will you do it, then?” “Just wait and you will see.” “Wait and be hanged! ,Thungeration! everything is going against me to-night!” CHAPTER IX. @ “FUCK IS AGAINST ME.” While flying from their pursuers the fugitives had to ride Straight toward the English camp for a time. ~ ' Randy Marvin was well acquainted with the neighborhood, however, and he soon ied them into a side path, as he orled to Phil: “Ride single file, now, and press on as fast as the horse will bear you!” “All right, Randy!” The path thus:taken by the fugitives was a very narrow ldné, through which'only one horseman could ride at a time. ' Phil insisted on his mother and Hdith going before him, and he soon turned in the path as he said to himself: 4 “This would be a good place to hold against the troopers, ifs6 The troopers were soon thundering along the path after them, Captain Darling leading the way. The young English officer was mounted on a splendid horse, : and he did not spare him. The troopers behind could not make as fast time on their — heavy steeds, and the impatient officer turned to cry back to. them: : “Spur on—spur on, you lazy rascals, and I'll give ten pounds — He for every prisoner taken!” j The young plotter would not have his late prisoner killed - for the world, and he had warned his men not to fire on the 2 fugitive. rs He urged them onsto capture them by threats and promises, ; and he rode ahead of them some distance, hoping that some- _ thing might happen to place Phil Pitcher in his power again. As for the others, he did not care a Straw, except that he - had a-desire to punish the daring friends who had risked so 4 much in rescuing the prisoner. The fugitives made splendid ‘time through the lane, yel The spy then turned to the young girl and Paere “What horse is that you have got under you, ea sae “Father’s brown filly.” “Can he jump well?” Fela “First class.” ~~ , is “Then we'll take across the country for it, a as 1 =e th: “You will see that I can.” ; a “Why did you leave your mother, ‘maith? steed “My father forced me to £0 with him, sir. ane “Will you go ies to mother now?” ;
Page 17
MOLL “Bad cess to your impudence! ” cried Moll as fits cleared, the fence in splendid. style, waia you ever see an Irish woman yet . that couldn’t ride a horse over anything at all?” ' up the mountain here. They all cleared the fence in fine style, and Captain Darling and bis troopers were not far behind them. Randy Marvin then led the way back to the American lines, saying: “If we are not headed off we will laugh at them now, you. can bet.” A ery of alarm burst from Edith at the moment, and she pointed to a party running across the fields ahead of them as she gasped forth: “That’s father and his band coming to cut us off!” The spy cast one glance ahead, and then turned his eye o the other direction as he remarked: “The troopers are coming after us, and we'll have to turn It is pretty steep, but I guess our horses can make it.” “Of course they can!” cried Moll Pitcher, as they faced up toward the steep mountain, thus turning away from those who attempted to head them off. Randy Marvin cast his eyes ahead in the hope of proceed- ing up some path leading up the mountain, but’ he failed to do so, and cried: “We'll face up, and look out for your horses. gether now!” “Together we are!” cried Moll Pitcher, “and the Old Boy take the hindmost!” The Tories and the troopers soon came together in the pur- suit, and they all dashed toward the mountain, Gideon Grimes erying: “We have got them now, as they can’t get up there on horseback, nohow!” The prediction appeared to be verified on the instant, as one of the horses ascending the mountain lost his footing and Keep to- - rolled back, bearing his rider with him. That rider was unlucky Phil Pitcher, who could not guide the anima] up the mountain in proper manner with his one hand. ‘The unfortunate youth was as weak as a child also, and he had searcely strength enough to disengage himself from the stumbling animal.as he felt him giving away. He did spring to one side, however, still holding on to the bridle, and he was soon dragged back with the rolling horse, although he did not receive any fresh injuries through the accident. 1 While Phil was thus falling down the mountain, he yelled out: } dele “Luck is against me. Ride on, dear mother, I implore you, and you can rescue me again,” Moll was about to turn her horse down the mountain, when - the spy seized the bridle rein and urged the animal forward, as he cried: “Don’t be a fool, Moll! And what good will it do you to be taken prisoner with them?” “That’s true, that’s true; but oh,’to think that my brave hoy has such bad luck all along!” A deep groan burst from Edith as she saw the young man rolling down, but her uncle cheered her as he cried to her: “Push on, push on, Edith! As I tell you your father will be down on you after to-night.” The girl cast one glance back and she saw them pets Les _ young man, while she cried: ; “There’s Sally Friend down there with them, en I believe _ she is a bad lot!” ~ *She- is that! * responded her uncle, “Keep on, keep on, as _ they are still after us on foot!” Having secured the young prisoner, Gideon Grimes and his | men pacienen up the ine an the fugitives, ‘the dente, PITCHER'S BOY. after my boy. again, ae seat a pe the mis chief 1 ye.” Saf ed Wy 6 “We'll have the rebels yet, and W’ll roast Banig: Marvin to-night! ” eee OHAPTER X. MOLL “STICKS TO HER BOY. Phil Pitcher was in bad luck, but his friends had no idea of deserting him. : The lad was secured by the troopers without any trouble, as it would be folly for him to attempt resistance with one arm, weak as he was, The horse was not injured’much by riding down the moun- tain, and Phil, was placed-upon the animal’s back again, Cap- tain Darling saying: “Treat the youth with the greatest kindness, and lead’ him back to camp.” In the meantime, Moll Pitcher and her two friends were flying up the mountain pursued by Gideon Grimes and half a dozen of his men. Edith Grimes was the last in the flight, but her uncle kept close to her, urging on the horse. . Moll Pitcher rode ahead, casting wistful glances back to- ‘ward where her son was held as a prisoner, while she kept muttering: “Come what will, my boy, Pl not desert you, you may bes sure.” The pursuers did not fire on the fugitives, as Gideon Grimes feared to shoot his daughter, who could be yee useful to him hereafter. The spy-scout cast several glances back, and he did not fail to use his pistols when he saw the Tories gaining ground on him, and two of the rascals fell under his fire. Moll Pitcher reserved her weapons for close work, as she hoped that they would aid her in finally rescuing the dear youth who was a prisoner. The Tory leader was in a fearful rage at the flight of his daughter and the loss of his best horse, while he was burning to have revenge on his brother-in-law also. 3 The chase was an exciting one from the very start, and it appeared as if it would continue so, although the troopers did not take further part after capturing the helpless youth, The horses did not make good time at first, as it was, Gifi- cult work getting up the steep mountain side. The active Tories on foot were old hunters, and they plung-— ed up with great spirit until they were checked by the spy’s bullets. : After climbing about three hundred bends, however, the ani- mals struck better ground, and away they went at full gallop, leaving their pursuers behind in short order. Gideon Grimes still fancied that his daughter was an un-' \° willing prisoner, and he yelled out: “Pull up, Hdith, and don’t go with that skunk any further.” — The girl did not reply, but Randy Marvin yelled back: | “Your gal is going back to her sick mother; and I’m going” to follow you up until I settle with you. a “Come back and try it on now.” “Not till I see her safe at home first, and then Pil be after. you.” The Tory leader howled with rage when he saw his deadly — foe slipping away from him, and he yelled to his men: “Fire at the rebel, but be careful not to hit my apr The Tories sent. a volley after the fugitives, ue not. a shot took effect. ‘ wee Then Moll Pitcher eried out: Shs Go "Ye mean dogs, don’t ye eee but dat vu ai be bacl d » iv
Page 18
16 tb edna _PITCHER’S BOY. And Moll meant every word of it. ‘Soon after that the Tories gave up the hunt in disgust, their , ‘leader saying: “(ll have it out with that skunk before long if I have to follow him into the rebel camp.” Sally Friend had kept in the background after guiding the others across the fields in the hope of intercepting the fugi- tives. The cunning girl remained at the foot of-the mountain with | Captain Darling until the return of the Tory leader. Drawing him aside, she said to him: “Don’t you now believe that your gal ran away with them?” “Tt looks like it, but darn my eyes if I know what to make of it.” “I know what to make of it, She’s dead gone on the young prisoner there, and you can bet your fortune she'll be back to help, him.” “Then why didn’t she come back when I called on her?” “Because her uncle wouldn’t let her just then, I calculate; but you'll see her back in camp soon or I’m a fool.” Captain Darling had been ruminating over the recapture, and he then addressed the Tory leader in sharp tones, say- ing: : “T can’t understand, Captain Grimes, how your prisoner c¢s- _ eaped from you.” : Gideon Grimes was in very bad humor, and he responded in gruff tones: 2 “Then you'd better see to,the young rebel yourself here- after, Captain Darling, ae Ke may escape from me again through his smart friends. The proposition did not suit the Pnglish officer for several _ reasons. With the prisoner in the hands of the regular soldiers it would not be so easy for the plotter to carry out his designs against him. Phil Pitcher was only a private soldier in the American army, and as such he was liable to be placed in. a common prison in New York or on board of one of the old hulks in the harbor, where so many patriots were starved or abused to - death in those days. It. was, therefore, desirable that the young fellow should be kept in the hands of the Tories, so that Captain Darling ‘could have him at his disposal whenever he pleased. - <The officer then spoke to the Tory leader in milder tones, saying: : : “T wish you to take charge of the prisoner again, ' Captain ' Grimes, as I have an nse rR as you know, in keeping him un- der my care.” The words were spoken in low tones, and Gideon Grimes ; responded in a similar manner, saying: “TI understand, sir} and I.swear to you that he will not ee away from me in a hurry; but I want to say something right here,” “What is that?” “We should make tracks for New York right off, as you can bet his friends will try to get him off again very soon.” i Captain Darling reflected ‘a few moments, and then re- sponded: { “T must move with my troop, but you can ‘sie on with your men as soon as possible.” ‘ “Then I'll do it, as I don’t care to hang around here much.” ee Phe Tory rascal then drew Sally aside again, and said to her: ; ‘ . “See here, old gal!” . “What is it, Gid?” ; i “Are you game enough to start right back at once and finish the job we talked about?” ay ; ea aed you Tike ee noe { bound for Sates both of us if you can put Randy Marvin out of the way at the same time, as it will be dangerous if he suspects us.” “Tll try it on, Gid; but you know he is a very tough cus-— tomer.” “I know it; and you are just the girl to get him down low. Go for him, and then we can live in New York in peace after the war is over, which can’t last long now, as the rebels are on their last legs.” “T hope so; but it don’t look much like it to see the eat lish scooting away now.” “That's a dodge to draw them on, and they'll, catch it nicely if they follow us on to New York.” Sally did not respond on this subject; but they soon settled about their trip back. Mrs. Grimes must, be put out of the way, and her brother as well. .They all hastened back to the Tory camp, and the young prisoner was given in charge of Gideon Grimes again, Cap- - tain Darling, saying: “Get him to New York as quick as you can, and take him to ~ the house out in the suburbs that I will direct you to. Then he will be fully in my power, and your fortune is made.” Sally Friend got a fresh horse and started back on her mur- derous mission as fast as possible, as she said to her in- structor: ; j ; “Tf I catch Edith I will watch her well, and you’ll see that she will soon come back after that young fellow there.” Gideon Grimes had been reflecting about his daughter and ee her liking for the young prisoner, and he was meditating on a project of using the young folks for his own advantage, and for betraying Captain Darling at the same time. He then answered, saying: “Do get her back Le me, as I may work a point for ourselves © with her.” ; The cunning girl read the rascal’s' mind, and a wicked smile. 4 appeared on her ugly face, as she said to herself: inca, omer “Now, Gid Grimes, if you attempt to fool me rl make you is suffer. Pll do your work, but you must let me share your bi spoils thereafter, or 1’ turn Captain Darling against you, ae 4 he’s not to’ be fooled with, I can see,” "4 While the Tory leader was thus plotting with the wicked . girl, Moll Pitcher and her two allies had gained a point about five miles back from the English camp, and they were then discussing as to the best means of _ rescuing the rp teh 4 young prisoner. Randy Marvin advised that they should hasten to the ‘gibt : ican camp, and return again toward New York in a day or 4 so for that purpose. Xf Moll Pitcher insisted on going at once to the house of their friend in the neighborhood, saying: yh ee “I'm going to stick to my boy, whatever you may do. I can — change my appearance again, and try my luck in the Tory * camp once more.” “4 They were disctissing on a side road, nen an old” man — sprang out on them from a wood and addressed the Spy 1 ii very familiar ea saying: x . so, and then exclaimed: } ; “Dang my eyes,-and is it possible that you ae Ca Hardy in that rig?” . . 1 The disguised officer ‘grasped | the. spy's hand and aside, as he whispered: “Yes, old fellow, and I an ror on | toe
Page 19
MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. | a aie: ae eniaas CHAPTER XI. ALL BOUND FOR NEW YORK. About daylight on the following morning the Tory captain and his men moved on through the English camp, taking the main road toward the city of New York. Phil Pitcher was sleeping when the wagon started on the journey. The young patriot’s legs were bound as before, and his right arm was secured as well, while five of the Tories rode on around him. Sally Friend rode in the wagon with the prisoner also. While this wicked girl was riding out of camp on the pre- vious night to carry out her evil mission a Tory from their old neighborhood galloped toward her, and the man gave positive information that Mrs. Grimes was dead. the patriots often chased the rascals down as far as the Har- lem River. When Gideon Grimes was compelled -to leave his Tatwa ‘i haunts, his eye was fixed on Westchester, as he said to him- self: “That’s the spot for me to work.in hereafter while the war lasts.” ; It also happened that Captain Darling had hired an old farm hand in Westchester, in order to carry out his plot against Moll Pitcher’s boy. Captain Hardy had received orders from General Washing-_ ton to push on to the East with the despatches as soon as. possible, and to then make his way back by striking across New York near West Point, where his company was to meet ae f That company was intended to operate against the English jhorse parties and the Tories in Westchester County, as ma- Sally then rode back to Gideon Grimes and told him the ;7@Udimg bands from that city of late had been playing the news, saying: j “There is no use in my going home now, and Hdith is sure to come after us soon:” “But that skunk, Randy Marvin, will be certain to be on my track now, as he has sworn to take my life when his sister died.” “That’s all the more reason that I should be done with , you.” “J guess you’re right, so come along. Just put him out of the way, and I’ll make you Mrs. Grimes when we get to New York.” ’ “You can bet I will, if I can get a chance, and he is bound to give it to me, as he will be after the young prisoner as well as yourself.” It was then decided that Sally should wateh over the young prisoner during the journey. Ye The Tory party traveled fast that day. On after them, about four miles in the rear, rolled a cov- ered farm wagor drawn by two horses, and which contained four persons, i Two of the persons in the farm wagon appeared to be a sub- | stantial old farmer and’ his aged wife; the third was a rough farm hand with a coarse crop of reddish hair and a beard of ' the same color; while the fourth had all the appearance of a green country boy paying his first visit to the city. That pretended old man was Captain Hardy of the Virginia cavalry, who was risking death as a spy on a mission for Wash- ington. u The old countrywoman was Moll Pitcher. ~ The rough farm hand was Randy Marvin, who had also heard of the death of his sister, and who was pursuing Gid- eon Grimes for a double purpose. And the green boy was Edith Grimes, who had been easily "prevailed on to follow her father and some one else. The disguises and the wagon had been furnished by a patriot farmer diving near the English camp, who had also} _ informed his friends of the departure of the Tories early in the morning. The English army moved on in the retreat very soon after. The English held New York City at the time, and _Washing- ton knew that it would not be wise to attack the place while the powerful fleet of the enemy commanded the harbor. The patriot general desired to strike the enemy. at another point, and hence Captain Hardy was hastening through the English lines with secret despatches destined to reach the American general operating in the Pasi. While the English held the city, the Americans controlled | the North River from West Point, and several sharp con- flicts took place in’ Westchester Pounte and on the other side | ‘ rae Fe iy phe Soca m™ 8 at the time, but * i mischief with the patriot citizens along the North River. Moll Pitcher was anxious to overtake the Tories and res- eue her boy as soon as possible, but Captain Darling pushed on rapidly, and crossed over into New York City ahead of his enemies, little dreaming that they were so close behind him. The Tory leader then pushed on up into Westchester, and took possession of the old farmhouse with his men. Phil Pitcher was placed in a back room on the second story, which had been fitted up as a sort of prison bedroom, and Sally Friend still kept watch over him. 2 Four days went by in that prison retreat, and the young prisoner grew stronger each day, his wound meal ates at the same time. Thinking of another escape,’ however, he was keen enough to pretend that he was Very weak, and that he could not use — his left arm at all. The back windows of the farmhouse looked out on the North River, and Phil hoped to escape across to Jersey if he could only sever the iron bars in the room in which he was con- fined. On the fifth day of their arrival in Westchester. idaptain : Darling appeared with his troops, and the young officer iat once sought an interview with the young prisoner. The plotter then threw off the mask to a certain extent, as he said to Phil: “The vile woman known now as Moll Pitcher is not vous mother.” “I don’t believe that,” answered the youth in ‘pitnt tones, : “as she is an honest, good woman, and she ee) been a kind. mother to me.” “But I tell you that ‘you were stolen tron your home * ites Ireland when you were a little boy by that woman and her _ Tascally husband. You are my cousin, and I came out here to. rescue you, and to fight those infernal Yankees.” Phil could not quite understand the man, but he felt inal wig ne was playing some deep game of his own, and he answered: “You are very kind, but I don’t thank you, all the ‘same, r No matter who or what I am, I am an American at heart, and x I will never fight against the Yankees,-as you call them.” Captain Darling frowned fiercely at the answer, and then said: “Then you will remain here as’a prisoner until I ain voady to go back, and you must go back with me, as I am your , ful guardian. If you attempt to escape again, ‘you ms be pitt, | to death as a rebel.” Phil laughed to himself at the bite but ue was ‘ énough to say: a isn’t ‘likely that T can escape. hile Tami urope with you very. soon. ” 5, We ie see
Page 20
“48 MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. The last threat did alarm the lad a little, as he hated the thought of leaving the country, never to see his mother and other friends again. While meditating over his position that evening Phil heard a familiar voice outside on the road singing an old Irish song, and his heart beat with agitation as he said to himself: “Here’s mother after me again, and they’ 1) put her to death ‘if she is discovered.” The musical voice was hushed a the moment, and then out sang Gideon Grimes in fierce and exultant tones, crying: ~ “We've got you safe this time, and you’ 11 soon die the death of a spy.” : The lad was trembling for his mother, when a manly voice addressed the Tory leader, crying: _*You’ve got me, Gideon Grimes, but you can’t keep gme; ~ Se ; ‘and I'll bet my life that the rope is not made that will hang. me. ” The Sccsthe was Randy Marvin, who had Any been seized by the Tories. The daring spy had tracked Gideon Grimes and his young prisoner to the farmhouse, and he was prowling around dis- guised as a farm hand when Sally Friend noticed him. The smart man could deceive the men of the party, but the keen-witted girl was on the alert for strangers, and she soon detected the man who had sworn to slay Gideon Grimes. On giving a hint to the man who had promised to marry her, the leader pounced on the spy with five or six of his men, and the daring man was,soon overpowered. ~ Mol! Pitcher was not far away at the time with Edith Grimes, who was still disguised as a boy. + The heroine of Brandywine was about to walk to the assist- sar ance of her friend, when the disguised girl held her back, ery- ing: ; “Remember your boy. If you are captured and put to death who will save him? Also remember that Captain Hardy is not so very far away with his men.” “True for ye, girl, and I must take it easy; but sure they may hang up your good, brave uncle at once.” “Vou hasten away to find Captain Hardy and his men, and _ f will go to father and beg of him to spare uncle for a time.” “You are a good girl, and a brave one. If you see my boy tell him that I am not forgetting him, and away I go for Captain Hardy.” “And I go to save my uncle.” 2 Randy Marvin was standing under a tree in the farmyard at the moment, with a strong rope around his neck. cr The brave spy’s arms were bound behind his back, and two Ea of the Tories held an end of the rope, while, their leader - cried: _ “We'll make short work of you now, you rebel skunk.” ‘The spy-scout, oe back at his enemy, as he hapa - cried: z -“T will live to see you strung up yet, Gideon Grimes, as 1 3 know that you are a robber and a murderer.” “String up the skunk and choke the lie in his throat.” ey “The two willing hands were pulling on the end of the rope, We vand the spy was lifted from his feet, when a boyish form er darted into the yard an@ sprang toward the Tory leader to tear the sword from his hand, crying: “This is a ‘shame, and I won’t stand it.” Then up toward the rope the boyish figure sprang and sev- = red it in two: with one Bree? of the weapon, ign Be ese aed tes Re “I am your own daughter, but I’m not a bit proud of: you. That’s right, uncle, go as quick as you can!” The active spy had taken advantage of the diversion, as he had kicked aside the Tories who held him, and darted away toward the river, with his arms still bound behind him. Gideon Grimes flung his daughter aside with a fierce im-_ precation, and sprang after his enemy, crying: “After him, men, and some of you grab that infernal gal!” CHAPTER XII. . MOLL HELPS A FRIEND. Phil Pitcher witnessed the ‘exciting scenes thus described, as he was peering out through the bars of his prison window. A shout of exultation burst from the youth as he saw the — brave spy dashing toward the river, and he exclaimed: '“That’s a splendid girl, if she is a Tory’s seca ‘and — } Tl never forget her for saving Randy’s life.” The Tory captain had his prisoner dragged to the rear of the farmhouse, as he feared interruption on the part of Cap- ; ; tain Darling or some of his men. , The English officer was away with his troop at the ‘time, but they were expected back at any moment, and Gideon Grimes feared that they might aly the execution to. give the spy a trial. - Phil Pitcher watched the anit of the spy with breathless is interest, but he did not forget the brave girl; bes) Me NP One of the Tories attempted to seize Hdith, when ‘Sally sprang out from the house and pushed the fellow aside, say- Se ing: @ 7 “Come into the house with me; and what pale you ot Ws like a boy?” A Edith was prepared for the treacherous on, and she aD . swered: “It was safer for me to travel here in this rig than in my own.” “Do you know that your mother is dead?” SI. dou? “Did you travel here with your uncle?” “T did not.” Sally knew that the- young girl was not telling iis truth, but she did not one as much, and she continued Hier’ in- i, quiries: 5 “Who did you come here with, then?” “I came alone. Oh, I do hope that ee will not will uncle.” } ‘1 _ Several shots were heard’ in the aisene of the river at AS that moment. ' ‘ Edith made a movement toward breaking away from acs but the strong girl dragged her into the house saying: E “Your uncle must take his chances whén he fights eaainae ‘3 and spies on your father, who isa good man and my husband.” : “My father your husband, when mother is not. cold in her: is grave?” : ro) ; “What of that? You be civil to me, Edith, and I will be your true friend. Would you like to see the young prisoner now, while they are busy hunting your uncle?” te The disguised girl colored to the Lisshoagd mae she » answered: — “Yes, i would like ‘to see the young man, as Tr have : sage from his mother.” ced ; . “Whére is she?” | “Away in the America cok. want to LS yo 4 a ke
Page 21
MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. ce man when he comes of age. You stand to me, and I will help you win his love. Come and see him now.” “Not in these clothes.” 5 “Yes, you’ must, as you have no time to change them now.” Phil Pitcher was still standing at the window, looking down toward the river, when the prison door was opened, and the disguised girl was pushed into the room by her pretended stepmother. The young fellow started, and then hastened to clasp Hdith’s hand, as he whispered: “Ts dear mother safe?” Edith hastened to tell about his mother, speaking in cau- tious tones, as they both feared that Sally was listening out- side the strong door. Phil shook his head on hearing of his mother’s hastening away in search of Captain Hardy, and said: “T new mother better. When she hears those shots she will move down to the river to help Randy. Oh, if I could only cut one of the bars on that window and get out!” Edith drew a small file from her pocket, and put it into the young man’s hand, as she remarked: “Uncle Randy saw the bars on the window, and he guessed you were in here. Don’t trust Sally Friend, but get to work as soon as you can. I see father has two of his men outside the door.” “Yes; but I will get out by the window now, and you must come with me.” Sally opened the door at that moment, as she slyly re- marked: “That's long enough for this time, young folks, and my old man may soon be back.” “Let me know about your Uncle Randy right off,” pleaded Phil, as Edith left with Sally. “TY will if I can.” When the brave spy dashed down toward the river he had hopes of bursting the cords on his arms in his flight, -They were too strong, however, and he did not care to plunge into the water while thus encumbered. The active man was as fleet as a race horse, yet those after him could run well also. The spy did gain on his pursuers before reaching the bank of the river, and he then wheeled to the right, and dashed along the path, Gideen Grimes pretty close behind him, the latter yelling: : “ire a volley after the Fei and bring him down at once.” The pursuers sent several pistol shots after the fugitive, but they did not appear to hit him, as he kept on at full speed. Moll Pitcher heard the shots and the cries as she was hasten- ing along the road, and the brave woman turned toward the river on the instant, muttering aloud: «That's Randy getting away from the villains, and T’ll try to give him a helping hand.” The spy was still flying along when he saw Moll trying to intercept him, and he darted toward her, crying: “Stranger, give me a hand,and cut Hasse cords if you don’t - want to see a man murdered.” » Moll took the hint, and she darted at nee’ friend, saying: “What is the matter with your arms, poor man?” / Moll did cut the cords on the double quick, while Gideon Grimes yelled out: “Stop that, ole woman, or you'll get yourself into trouble,” Moll darted along beside the spy, as she said to him: _- *T._ suppose it is best for me to play shady with the rascals?” ie “That’s the game. Keep by me-now, and we will soon give : then the slip. Hi { : Moll Pitcher could run as fast as most men, pee she was fresh at’ the time. riend yelling aloud: f - Gathering her skirts Hp a tte, away pe How with her The robbers! “The robbers! And who will save us from | them?” Captain Darling was riding pack to the rates with his « troop when he heard the yells of the woman, and he faced his men toward the fugitives, saying: . “What's wrong here?” “The robbers are after us!” yelled Moll, as she dashed through the troopers with her friend. “Kill the villains, good soldiers.” K The troopers made way for the terrified pair, who: darted - into the wood beyond. Then upon the scene rushed Gideon Grimes and his men, the former panting for breath, as he gasped forth: “That’s the tarnal spy, Randy esate captain, and [ think it is Moll Pitcher with him.”” “Then pursue them, men!” yelled the officer. pounds to the man who captures Moil Pitcher!” “And: fifty CHAPTER XIII. * “ap WORKS FOR HIS MOTHER. Phil Pitcher was terribly troubled about his mother, as he felt that the devoted woman would run into any danger on his account, or to assist a true friend. Edith had scarcely left the prison room when the young fel- low set to work on one of the iron bars of the window as he said to himself: “That’s a dear, good girl, but I am more worried about mother now. Here’s to work for freedom before the raseals return!” : ! Phil did work with a good heart, and with hands that were almost as useful as ever. “It was growing quite dark, and the small file cut into the iron bar without making much noise, while the young prisoner kept singing aloud the while. Those on guard outside the room noticed the singing, and one of the Toties said to the other: “The captain’s gal cheered up the young rebel, but her © father will give her fits, if 1 don’t mistake, as she is in with the enemy.” “There’s no accounting for what gals do,” uae the other; “and I don’t trust the captain’s new wife, either.” “But is she his wife?” “She says she is, but I ain’t heard him own up yet.” “And you won’t, either, as the captain is not such a fool as to marry that ugly thing.” The guards kept on discussing about Sally, and Phil worked like a beaver. The bar was nearly severed when he heard the tramping ‘of horses in the front yard, and then a loud voice icone on his ear, crying: H “Ye murdering English villains, I come here to see my boy, and I dare you to hang me! If you do, sate a Washington: will string up a dozen of redcoats for me.” “Thunder and lightning! ” exclaimed Phil, as he recognized his mother’s voice, “that is ROUTER, and now I must work for her!” Moll Pitcher had been captured by the English horsemen, . while Randy Marvin escaped in the wood, Phil Pitcher had commenced to think that there was some- — thing mysterious about his birth and early life on account of the words uttered by Captain Darling, but the loving lad. could j not think ill of Moll Pitcher, and he was resolved to look upon her as his mother to the end. Eee Moll was dragged into the farmhouse’ by two of the troopei Her arms: were ue Saher “but the ( ld
Page 22
20 MOLL PITCHER *S BOY. = - ~ tongue, although Captain Darling threatened to hang her on the nearest tree as a spy in disguise. That young officer appeared to be highly delighted at the eapture of the brave woman, and so was Gideon Grimes. They both hated her on account of her bravery in battle and for personal reasons as well. The English officer had been looking for the woman for more than a year, and her action at the Battle of Monmouth ‘had brought her to his notice, although he had been on her ‘track before then. The Tory captain hated the woman because she fought on the right side, as well as for daring to attack him in his:own camp. All the Tories and troopers were delighted to know that the famous heroine was in their power, and they fully ex- Pected to see her dangling from a tree that night. Moll Pitcher had an object in speaking so loud while being dragged into the house as she wished to let her boy know that she was in trouble. She. was at once dragged into a private apartment, where ‘she was confronted by Captain Darling, who had a stern ex- ‘pression on his handsome countenance. There was a gleam of triumph in the young officer’s S eyes as he stood before the woman and addressed her in cold tones, saying: ‘ : “And so you are the woman now known as Moll Pitcher?” Moll glared back at the young man in the most scrutinizing manner, as she said to herself?’ “He does look like his father very much, and they are hoth born villains. He won’t get much out of me, though he may string me up.” “Speaking aloud, Moll said: r “Yes, Moll Pitcher is my name, and I am not ashamed of it, either.” } -, “You had another name in years gone by?” | “To. be sure I had, for I was a young girl once, and I had my maiden name.” “But your late husband had another name.” “Who told you that?” . “J know it and I know you. I also know that the young man who was'my prisoner is not your son.” Moll bridled up on the instant, and answered in very angry tones, crying: “That’s a lie for you, if you mean Phil Pitcher, the brave boy who fights in the Virginia cavalry when he is able to do it!” A grim smile passed over Captain Sedna) face, and he responded, saying: “There is no use in beating about the bush, so let us come to terms at once. I know who you are, and I think you know me also.” Ce p E “Tf I did know you, I don’t think I would know much good of you, judging by your looks; but what business do you want to settle with me now?” “You know that you are arrested as a spy, and that gs are to be put to death.” “Not before I have a fair trial.” : “You were caught in disguise inside our lines, and that is cause enough to treat you as a spy.” Moll was well posted on the rules of war and on the locality as well, and she answered: “What do you call your lines?” “The spot we are now standing on takes in the English lines.” saa you knew as much about the countr, yas 1 do you would ai ‘mow that the place around here is what ‘the army men call Sometimes one side hold it with a troop like Bad cess to ‘me, if: you age | you upon more charges ‘than one.’ may not be rattled out of here by some of the brave lads on our side before an hour is-over your head.” The Hnglish officer knew that Moll spoke the truth, as West- chester was for years regarded as neutral grounds by the Americans and the Bnelish. : He desired to frighten the woman, however, for an object of his own, and he said: “You were spying on us here in disguise, sae that is death | for any man or woman caught in the act.” “Well, then, give me a fair trial before a court of officers, and that’s all I ask; but don’t let those Tories try me, bad cess to them! ” “The Tories will try you and hang you, too!” said Gideon Grimes as he stepped into the room, carefully closing the door after him. : Moll Pitcher cast a scornful glance at the Tory leader and ‘then grinned defiantly at him ‘as she replied: : “T know the likes of you would like to hang the likes of me, but it is you who will suffer in the long run by your treachery . to your country and your kind.” Gideon Grimes raised his hand in a threatening manner and scowled fiercely at the brave woman, but Captain Darling inter- posed, saying: ; “Be quiet for the present as I have something serious to say to this woman.” “What is it, then?” asked Moll. “It is about the young man you call your son!” “What of him, then?” “You know that he is a prisoner here in my power.” “To be sure I do, or I wouldn’t be here to see him.” “I want to tell you that T will release him and yourself also. on one condition.” ; “ee While thus speaking Captain Darling cast a warning glance © ? at Gideon Grimes as if he meant to say: “Don’t you interfere, as I have no notion of doing what L say.” : Moll was on the alert at the proposition, and she a once qth inquired: , Ted “What condition do you iean?” he ; “You think a great deal of the boy, I presume?” pie: “Why shouldn’t I, as he is the apple of my eye?” : f “And you wouldn’t care to see him put to death?” i ig “I'd like to see the one who would dare put him to death, for you can’t say that he is a spy, whatever I may be.” @ “He is in our power at present, and so are you, but I make you a fair offer, woman.” ; “What is that offer?” “Tell us honestly who he is, and the name of his parents, and we will release you both.” fs Moll knew that the young scoundrel was trying to draw her out, but she pretended to Be tor ea the proposition, and she ; answered: gee “Td do a good deal to save my boy and myself also, but f I’d like to have a talk with him first, and in secret, mind you. ve Captain Darling nodded as if he had gained a great point, and then turned and conversed with the. s captain ane subdued tones. Gideon Grimes then left the room, saying: i fe “T will bring the young fellow here.” : Captain Darling closed the door after the Dee and address- ed Moll in cautious tones, saying: : 4 x “See here, my good woman, you might as ‘well admit at once who you are and all about your OE A son, as I can hang “What can you hang me for, only that I love the country ree that gave us shelter?” atti ; “T can prove that you stole the JPOP, Ww ‘little fellow, and — is a nee i
Page 23
pias a tee: oe Wi f t Y oo MOLL PITCHERS BOY. make it so. If you want to save your neck, tell the whole bale brought her in hére aaa she aigoed away while I was: : truth before witnesses, and——” . getting some supper ready for her.” Be : The officer was interrupted by startling cries outside the The two men guarding the door where the prisoner was apartment, and then Gideon Grimes rushed in, erying: », | confined were Sally’s old friends, and she knew that they “Tarnation take it, the young imp has escaped from the! would not betray her on certain points. room, and he is not to be found in the house.” Gideon Grimes then continued by asking Sally: “Hscaped!” thundered Captain Darling as he sprang to the “Did my gal see the young prisoner?” — door. “How could she see him, except she Apoked up at him “Hurrah! Hurrah!” yelled Moll Pitcher. “If my brave boy | While he stood at the window?” has escaped, and I feel that he has, I pitch you alt to the “J don’t know how it is, but [ am “thinking that we have © mischief now!” traitors around here, ” growled the, fierce man as he started Captain Darling rushed out like a madman, as he yelled to}|.out to lead some of his men in the hunt for the young fugitive. Gideon Grimes: i All the fighting men at the farmhouse were wide awake that “See that that woman does not escape, and we will treat | night, as it was known that a pep of patriot horsemen were with her hereafter!” ; in the neighborhood. The officer then called on his troopers to search the house} Captain Darling had heard of the troop while he was Out _and grounds around it, while others rode to and fro in quest) scouting that evening, and he also learned that they Were of the late prisoner. composed of patriots in the neighborhood and a detachment of At that very moment Phil Pitcher was standing in a shelter-| Virginia cavalry. 3 ed spot in the orchard back of the house, and Edith Grimes The young English officer had encountered the Virginia heat nestle Mea Syne horsemen at the battle of Monmouth, when they charged I fear that you cannot rescue your mother tos night, and through his troops, and when he succeeded in first capturing I would advise you to be off now before they come out after Moll Pitcher’s boy. you. Here’s a weapon for you, and do take my advice.” Fé shade dsairert oun eae Pian again in battle array, as he Phil took the sword handed him by the girl, who continued, had an old grudge against their captain i saying: : ‘Captain Hardy, of the Virginia cavalry, had visited England “You will find a good horse in the lane below, and be off with | a few years before, and he there became engaged in a quarrel you!” with Captain Darling. - Phi) shook his head in a stubborn manner and replied in firm tones, saying: “My mother did not desert me in trouble, and I would be a cur to desert her. She worked for me, ee, now I will work » for: her.” -. Loud cries were heard in the farmhouse at’ the oot and , Edith pushed the young hero toward the end of the orchard, as she implored: — : “For mercy’s sake, fly now, and you can saye your mother They were old: foes, and it was not at all probable that they would become friends. While treating with Moll Pitcher that night, and while send- ing his men out to hunt for the escaped prisoner, the young English officer was very careful to guard against a surprise. : He had his.scouts out along the road, and watchful eyes were on the lookout against a surprise, while all his troops were ready to mount and charge at the slightest warning. The escape of the daring scout and spy served to increase the Englishman’s anxiety, as he knew that Randy Marvin ‘and Captain Hardy were fast friends. Edith continued to push Phil Pitcher down jewel the ‘jane, when the alarm cries were heard, and she continued her ap- : peals to him, saying: “T just heard to-night, from one of father’s friends, that Captain Hardy was in the neighborhood. Why not hasten away to him and bring him here to réscue your mother, as T know that ail the patriots think the world of her?” - The suggestion was a good one, and it had an effect on the young fellow. ? : He knew that it would be tanaet madness for him to at- — tack his enemies single-handed, and he only thought of rescu- ing his mother by strategy. All the martial fire in his soul was aroused on hedlng that his friends were near, and he pressed the girl by the hand ins the most tender manner as he said to her: : “That settles it, and now I will away on be sine to seek j my own brave friends.” Br tk “Good-by, then, until we meet again.” pei) ‘Pie “We'll meet again.” : ae Hdith followed the young man to gas lane and a ne of relief escaped from her as she saw him dash fa peti down — toward the river. an Some of the eat | were then ee Aowe os hereafter!” ‘ “No, no! I know what they are up there and what they think of my mother. If I hesitate or delay she will be put to death as a spy, as I know what the Tories are too well to trust them. I will save my mother before I leave her, or I " will die with her!” CHAPTER XIV. OLD FOES MEET AGAIN. - Sally Friend, as we will call her, had an object of her own i in aiding in the release of the young prisoner. The ugly girl was all powerful at the farmhouse, as the Tories there feared her, and she was just the one to use her ‘influence with such men. | It was through that influence that a horse had been supplied Etor Phil Pitcher, and Edith permitted to see the young fale the orchard. _ The Tory’s good daughter was still disguised as a poy, and only a few of the men around had recognized her while she as saving her uncle from the rope. Gideon Grimes had not seen his daughter since he. returned h Moll Pitcher, and ‘Edith proposed to keep out of her ther’s way as long as_ possible. : ‘The Tory leader ‘was as anxious to secure the prisoner again Captain Darling could be, while he little dreamt that Sally aided in his escape. ‘Sally soon atter the alarm arose. op y repli do that she did not at ‘owen Pug become ‘of BS eee ee ee Ea et ee ee ee ee
Page 24
22 MOLL PITCHER’S i ‘BOY. i ’* “There he goes! There he goes! This way, Captain Darling, and we’ll catch the rascal!” Captain Darling stood ready to mount at the moment, and away he galloped after the others. About six of the troopers joined in the chase, and the Tories mounted also to be ready to cut the hunted youth off in case he was driven back. to the farmhouse. Phil Pitcher was not well acquainted in the neighborhood, but he did know that the upper road led toward the American scouting parties. When the troopers dashed down at him he faced his hdrse up toward the main road, trying him over one or two apes before he said to himself: “This is a good one, and I can trust him to cross the country ‘in good style.” Phil reached the main road ahead of the troopers and he ‘then let his horse out at full speed, holding a sword ready to cut his way through any of the enemy who may attempt to oppose him. A horseman soon rode toward him, and Phil could notice that he was an English trooper. “Halt!” cried the man as Phil drew near. now?” 4 ; “Bind out!” cried Phil as he dashed at the fellow who had drawn his horse up in the centre of the road. Captain Darling was riding after Phil at the time, and the officer yelled aloud to the trooper: “Stop him! stop him! but don’t fire or slay him on your life!” The trooper attempted to meet Phil’s charge by striking him from his horse, but the active young fellow dashed the sword aside, flinging the man from the saddle at the same time, as he rode on, crying: : “Thank fortune I am able to use sid a hands again and ride as well as ever!” Then on he went, with Captain Darling and six or seven of the troopers in close pursuit, the former yelling: “Halt, or we will fire!” . “Fire and be hanged to you!” yelled Phil. “And I’ll give you fits soon if you injure a hair of my mother’s head!” “Tf you do not surrender we will hang your mother in an hour, you young fool!” “T’ll be hanged if you do without a brush for it! Get along with you, good horse, and let us see what you are made of on this level road.” The young fugitive struck the horse with his sword while speaking, and he then discovered that he had been supplied with a fleet animal. ; On and on went the exciting chase, but Phil was drawing away from his enemies. Captain Darling was well mounted, however, and he Snes “Who comes there his horse for all he was worth, while he foamed with rage at the thought of his prize escaping him. The English officer soon left the troopers far behind, but he could not gain on the fugitive, while he groaned forth: “Would to heaven that some accident would happen to that horse, and the mischief take the ok fia who gave him to the young rascal!” They had ridden about three miles from the farmhouse when Phil perceived. another horseman 1 out from a 3 wood ahead of them. f The young fellow was then some distance ahead of Captain ‘Darling, and he said to himself: i ; ie shit this is another pie detaien I must make short work of him!” . Fi Phil drew his horse up a little, ‘grasping his Bund with a y stronger grip as he continued to say: ba “The man ahead | does Hint pol: like an. Mpgush ‘trooper as ar as I can see now.” ‘he man ahead ‘galloped. toward 2 Phil ate leisurely wait A; i until he was within hailing distance, when he called oun "ie manly tones: “Who comes there?” Phil recognized the voice on the instant, and joyous were the - tones in which he replied. “A friend, indeed, Captain Bey and it is glad I am to meet you!” Captain Hardy pressed on to meet his friends as he re- sponded, crying: “Welcome, welcome, my brave fellow! ing after you?” “Captain Daxling, an officer in command of the English. troop, who held me_as a prisoner,” t “Captain Darling!” ” exclaimed the young Virginian, in fierce tones. “Yes, yes; and he has several of his friends riding after — him. Have you friends near, captain?” i “Yes, I have friends near, aS some of our fellows are back there in the wood.” The two friends were ‘riding on together at the ry and Captain Hardy cast his eyes back to watch the enemy, as he remarked: “T do not see any of his mén riding on with him.” a “They have galley eng a little, but they are close at hand, I assure you.’ “They are far enough behind to suit my purpose, and I am~ going to meet that scoundrel single-handed. Remain here — with the boys, and come on with them if you see any of his’ men appearing.” At a signal from the young Virginian several mounted men dashed out from the wood, and among them was Randy Mar-» a vin, the spy. \ “Halt here until I return!” cried Captain Hardy, as fee rode. back to meet his old foe. “What are you about, captain?” cried Phil, as he galloped after his officer. [ “T am about to meet a rascal I hate, and you ride back to’ ‘the, men unless you see the English riding at us while we fight,” — Being tiius ordered, Phil drew back to his friends, wae Te- a a 4 And who is this rid- ceived him in a joyous manner. Ri Captain Darling then rode back at a gallop as he gata to- 3 himself: 4 “Would that I had my troop here now and I would crush | those rascals! ” ye A voice then rang out to him, crying: Paty “Captain Darling, if you have a roe of manhood in you | turn and fight me!” “a The Englishman recognized the voice, and he ‘turned. his hprse again as he answered: Ve “I will meet you, you.miserable Yankee, on foot or on horse, single-handed or at the head of my troop, if you name but ; day and the hour!” 1 4 “This is the hour, and léet us at it ike ‘ay you English Ba hound!” re While thus speaking Captain Hardy drew up before “aie” enemy and brandished his sword ‘aloft. 4 Captain Darling looked pack and he perceived aver or ‘Six we of his troopers galloping along the road. ; 5 Then, drawing his pistol, he took aim at his enemy: as Kes eried: j \ “a “Thus do I treat raseally rebels! ” DE aig Gh StS ied si ig 4 CHAPTER XV.~ TO MOLL (PITCHER'S RESCUE. — _ Captain Hardy perceived ‘the treachero us, mi
Page 25
Se MOLL Ld The animal under the brave Virginian sent forth a groan as_ thé shot was fired, and he then staggered forward and fell. His young rider sprang to his feet, firing at the same mo- ment, as he cried: “You were always a treacherous rascal, Darling, but ore be -in with you now!” The English troopers sent up a shout as they heard the shots, and galloped toward their captain at full speed. He turned his horse toward them just as the Virginian fired, ‘crying: - “T will meet you, brave fellows!” : Captain Hardy did not hit his enemy, and he dashed after him on foot, yelling aloud: “Come, my brave boys, and we will meet the rascals, man _to man!” man to man, at the head of some of my Phil Pitcher and his friends on the road were then gallop- ing forward, while several horsemen dashed out through the wood to back their captain. When Captain Darling reached his men he could perceive that the Americans far outnumbered him, and he galloped back toward the farmhouse, crying: “The hounds are too many for us and we will ride back’ at full speed for the others!” Then away rode the Englishmen, as Captain Hardy yelled after them: “J will chase you when I get another horse, and I. will meet you to-night again, you treacherous cur!” A shout of defiance was the Englishman’s only reply to the threat, and away he went, feeling certain that he would have to, encounter his enemy again that night. Captain Hardy soon procured another horse, and he mus- tered his troops around him, crying: “We will chase the English dogs is their camp. about your brave mother, Phil?” “She is a prisoner in the hands of the English, and they threaten to hang her for a spy within an hour.” “Then we will to her rescue at all hazards! Forward, men, -to the rescue of Moll Pitcher, the heroine of Monmouth!” “To the rescue of Moll Pitcher!” sang out the troopers as they pressed on with the son of the woman who was the idol of the army. % Captain Hardy’s troop numbered some forty men, and they Were all well armed with swords and pistols,’ while they Were most eager for a struggle with the English. There was one man among them, however, who was not carried away by, the excitement of the moment, mgs el he was Moll Pitcher’s true friend. That man, was Randy Marvin. The spy knew that the Americans would fight at a great 4 disadvantage if they charged boldly on the party-at the farm- house, and he rode up to Captain ae s side as he said to him: : *May I have a word with you, captain?” e « “Certainly, Randy.” ie “Then I would say to you that it will be very unwise to Nios the English skunks openly.” ~ What 4 Hf - “How is that?” “They | outnumber you, and they will be posted at the farm- house that I spoke to you about. The rascally Tories are “But we must rescue Moll Pitcher, Randy. It will be an eternal disgrace to us all if that brave es ev ae as a py. ” 4 “We will rescue her if you take my advice, captain. “What is that advice?” { ey “Let us move cautiously and attack them on the aay.” aii i) be done When they are on the alert?” } aaead She aE PITCHER’S BOY. there with them, and they all number eighty men at least. fait ‘| Moll Piteher’s: neck, and drew, cher nace into They willbe on the lookout for us: here | bi y 23 on the road, but it will be best for us to dismount in the wood | beyond here, and then steal along by the river side and sur- prise them on foot.” The young Virginian was at home in the eaadle, and he did not relish the idea of fighting on foot, yet he perceived that the spy was right in his suggestion. To charge down on the farmhouse against double their num- bers would be very yenturesome, and many brave men would be certain to fall in the fire of their hidden foes. It was then resolved to follow Randy’s advice in a certain measure, and to attack the English ina cautious manner. No time was to be lost. however, as Phil feared that his mother would be put to death very soon. ; That brave woman was in a perilous position, as Captain Darling was fearfully enraged at the escape of the young prisoner, After riding back some distance \ne could perceive that the Americans held back, and he said to himself: “The rascals fear sag fall into an ambuscade, and they are retreating.” On drawing near the farmhouse the English officer could not see anything of his enemies, and he rode en, hissing forth: “Now to deal with Moll Pitcher.” Moll Pitcher was one of the happiest women in America that night when she saw the troopers riding back without their late prisoner. Gideon Grimes had her in charge in the Kitchen of the farmhouse, and they were waging a war of Safi over the struggle of the day. Moll’s arms were still bound “behind hér,j and the Tory leader kept a strict watch on her, although he permitted her to look out the front window. When Moll saw Captain Darling riding into the farmhouse, a cry of joy burst from her and she sang out: “Hurrah for the brave boy—my boy—who humbugged ats all and got safe away to his friends.” Captain Darling sprang from the saddle and burst into the kitchen, crying: “You infernal old hag, your boy has escaped, but you ‘will suffer for him. ‘Grimes, let your men get a rope and we will hang her up on the tree, back there!” “You daren't hang me!” cried Moll, who did not appear to be the least alarmed. “I demand a fair trial and as muck justice as you English can give!” 2 “You'll get all the justice you deserve. On with the rope around the hag’s neck and drag her out to the gallows tree!” Gideon Grimes and one of his men placed the rope around the brave woman's neck, and they were about to drag her forth when Edith ran into the room, erying: “Oh, mercy, mercy, father! You would not hang a brave Po woman because she came here to save her son?” CHAPTER XVI. 4, “THE REBELS ARE ON US.” Gideon Grimes had not seen his aedentee since she acted in such a brave manner while rescuing her uncle. Captain Darling was not aware that. the young. girl was in the place at all, as he had been too busy with Moll Pitcher and ek her son’ since the return of the scouting party. : Sin The good girl was still disguised as a boy, as she had lko. been on the alert since Phil Pitcher rode away from the farmhouse. : : | While Edith spoke to her father,. she flung“ her arms, Wo nd Poort lat
Page 26
_ heaven knows that I did not mean to break my pledge to her.” ay. .. MOLL Sete aa BOY. rn en eb tt en te ‘“T knew you wouldn’t desert me, my good girl, and Heaven | seeing Captain Darling and his troopers galloped away, with | bless you for saying a word for me at this time; but I defy |the English in full pursuit. * them.” Then up through the orchard ran some twenty men, led on Gideon Grimes pushed his daughter aside in a very rough |by Phil Pitcher and Randy Marvin, the young man crying: manner, crying: “Here we come to your rescue, mother. Girls, retreat into ci “Get right out of my sight, gal, or I’ll do you some mischief |the house !” ; us : right off.” Sally and Edith did retreat into the house, while over into — Captain Darling then interposed, Saying: the yard sprang the active American, Moll Pitecher’s boy, ery- — “Can it be possible that she is your daughter?” ing: aah “Yes, it is, and she is a bad girl, as I believe that she “Here’s at the rascals who would hang my brave mother, helped in getting that young rebel away.” and down with the English forever!” iy BHdith turned on her father in the most indignant manner, The Tories around the farmhouse were taken by surprise pS crying: i at that unlooked-for assault, and they fled to-the front, yell- — “I am not’a bad girl, sir, and what if.I did help in getting |'"%° , t the young rebel away?” “The rebels are on us in the rear.” ¢ Mie Fatasonire of it Loavould ohare you right here.” Phil.Pitcher darted at the two men who held his mother, ‘the Tory was springing at his daughter, when Captain and struck one of them to the ground with his sword, firing { Datling interposed between them, crying: point blank at the other at the same time, as he ge t “I am in command here, Captain Grimes, and you must not| . Pea™ mother, it is my turn to reseue you now.” of - touch the young lady before me.” The Americans dashed at the Tories in front of the house, a "Wai alg ke: Wud dite, to: etelte tin cidlk of udcbiy touether” using their weapons and swords on them, and slaying aeresat: Es : i 2 j > jot them in short order. Pe aa AG visaee is utah % eee ffécti Gideon Grimes saw that he was outnumbered; and he dashed oe nn ponies oe ioe de va rote eee along the road at full speed, with several followers, yonanes : ! “Come back, come back, Captain Darling! ” Was devoted: girl’ was cutting the cords ‘that bound: the Randy Marvin and his friends ran after them, but could not oa woman’s arms while thus embracing: her, while she whis- i overtake them, so they returned to the house. pered to her, at the same time saying: 4 The Americans were retreating toward the ey “th ot by “ ” . Aiba ob i aiauee kta ae pi nib chi very soon. /umph, when Edith ran out of the house and addressed Lode if “I will, my darling,” whispered Moll in return. x . : : Pitcher, Bayang ; i ‘Stop this fooling!” cried Grimes, and out with the woman : if we are going to string her up.” ‘ “No, no, father. Oh, Captain Darling, you wouldn’t be so eruel as to hang a poor woman merely because she is true to her own son?” ' Being thus appealed to, Captain Darling replied in kindly tones, saying: “I hate to displease you, Miss Grimes, as I remember your kindness to me at Monmouth, but I assure you that the young man you allude to is not this woman’s son, as the wicked creature stole him from his" mother in Ireland when he was a little boy.” Thrown off ee euard for a moment, Moll Pitcher aa nantly cried: “That’s an infernal lie, if George Washington himself said it, for the dear lady gave him into my charss of her own free will.” A joyous exclamation Burst, from Captain s atagtid on hear- ing the confession, and he then cried: ' “You all heard what the old hag said. She confesses that the boy is not her son, and that she got him from his mother in Ireland.” ; ‘“ Moll Pitcher saw that she had committed a grave blunder, ‘but she was not a woman-to back out, and she replied, say- ing: j AS “Tt slipped from me, Heaven forgive me, but the angels in uncle.” Randy Marvin and Phil seized the young girl ty the hand, the former crying: | 3 “T’d ask you to come now, Hdith, only that we have a rough time before us yet.” i “T know, I know. I hope you will get. safe erage to ‘your friends with the good woman.” —. ¥ Pitcher; “and it is I will aa te you thanks in some way i ever it is in my power.” yf 4 af “Away with you!” cried Randy Marvin, “phe troopers ar riding back now.” f Sie s orchard dashed the Americans. j Captain Darling had heard the cries and the lata the farmhouse, and he then realized that he had been foo by the Bereyeen he had been pursuing. ; \ they could laugh at their enemies when pursued by the Captain Grimes soon met the English officer on the roa i, ar he yelled aloud: Pei “Come back, quick, Captain. We were attacked by rebel who came Stain the orchard, and a have sone ba way again.” vie “Back it is, then.” f “Then you do confess that the boy is my sister’s child?” ee a won't. confess anything to you, but it will. all come out a in the right time.” _ Gideon Grimes seized his daaletiees again, and dragged her away from Moll Pitcher, as he eried: ; “We have heard enough; string her up!” : ; : Sally appeared in the door of the apartment, and use then CHAPTER XVII. ; , ' a A PAIR FIGHT FOR If. a
Page 27
A scout galloped into the yard, crying: “There are twenty-five rebels retreating on foot along by the river, captain.” nce “Gideon Grimes and his men mounted in hot haste, and the the troopers in pursuit of the retreating Americans. The retreating party were making toward the wood where their friends were with horses awaiting them. Captain Hardy had led the mounted party down the road. The brave Virginian would have charged at the enemy were it not that he had promised ree Marvin to draw them away from the farmhouse. Having accomplished so much Captain Hardy was burning to have a fight with the troopers, although he saw that they - outnumbered his party. On gaining the wooded retreat with Moll Pitcher and her “friend, the spy addressed Captain Hardy, saying: “Now captain, that Moll Pitcher is all right I'll tell you > what I’ll do with you.” “What will you do?” “T'll give you a chance to have a fair fight with those Brit- | ish horsemen.’ ‘a Bs “How will you work it, as they outnumber us with the mounted Tories?” “We'll split them up if you say so, and at neti in detail.” E “The cunning spy then went on to explain his plan, and it! did not take him long to do it. oO ee OLS OS eee ee 3 pared to put the spy’s trick in force. and he feared an ambush. Sending his skirmishers ahead, he ordered his troop to ride in order of battle, and to keep well on the alert, were also prepared for a fight. ‘On reaching the edge of the wood, one of the horsemen \ ahead yelled out: “There they go, captain!” on The skirmishers fell back, and Captain Darling was soon viding in front, when he perceived a strong body of horsemen Crawn up about two hundred yardsfahead. ‘ Tory leader was in a fearful rage as they dashed along with | Having explained his plan of action, the patriot leader pre- | . Captain Grimes and ‘the Tories rode on behind, and fae ie MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. bieral fifty, did their ecacmten with the pista was simply fearful. Several of the troopers in the r rear ranks wheeled about as if to ride to the assistance of the Tories. At that juncture the American horsemen wheeled about again, as if to dash back at their foes. - Captain Darling feared that he had fallen pds a det) and he called a halt, crying: “Charge back, as our allies are put to rosin an ambus- cade.” } * The troopers did charge back in some aisorder, when the front rank received a volley from the spy and his men, who jhad time to load again. Then on after the English troopers dashed Captain Hardy and his men, the leader yelling: “Face about, you cowards, and give a fair fight for a a Captain Darling did not heed the chailenge until his were beyond the fire of those in the wood, and he had already lost several of his men. # His party still outnumbered the horsemen, however, aA the English officer could perceive as much as he looked back. Still fearing an ambuscade by another party, the troopers rode on to the edge of the wood, when their captain cried:. “Wheel about now, and we will give the rascals a fair fight ,tor ity” The spy and his friends dashé | also, where their horses wefe ready to receive them. Hastily reloading their pistols’ they sprang on their steeds ‘and dashed out to meet their friends. nm to the edge of the woods, Captain Darling felt that the Americans were not far away, | When the Americans came together a cheering shout arose }trom them, and then Moll Pitcher cried: “Now for a fair fight with the villains, and show them that , they are not masters of the land!” The Americans rode onat. ull gallop until the edge of the wood was passed, and they were then within pistol shot of the English, who were advancing to meet them. The Tories had reached, the farmhouse in dire disorder, their captain bleeding freely from the pistol wound in his cheek. : ; It must be confessed that the English were disorganized also by the disasters of the night, and they were not prepared © One glance at the party showed him that his troopers far to receive the fearful onslaught of those. who then charged ; cutnumbered the enemy, and he cried: “Forward to the charge, ann use pistol and steel on the! _Yascals! ” - On dashed the English, and after them rode the Tories, the latter numbering twenty men. The Americans soon turned to retreat, as if ‘Searing to en- _ counter such a strong party, and Captain Darling cried: a “Charge after the rascals on the double quick, and they’ cannot escape.” The troopers set spurs to their nopeog: and: palloped Rone at a headlong pace. ‘The Tories did not ride as ig ae and they were soon n separated rom their allies. : ; ey were still riding at ‘thi side of the wood when a wild “purst on their ears, and then into the Tory ranks rattled a2 deadly volley, while a voice cried out in thrilling tones: “Out at the traitors, and kill them to a man!” © elieved that the rebels had struck them in force. everal of. oe. men had fallen, their horses were PEO a ~The Tories received another stunning surprise, as they a5 on them. , \ Captain Hardy rode at the head of his men, and close behind , him. were Phil, Pitcher and the spy. ; “For old Virginia and our native land!” yelled the sgellant ae ‘captain, as he dashed at his foe..? | FY a The two parties came together with a rattling of pistols and a clashing of swords, and then all was confusion, page and deadly wounds. Yet high above the din of the coniet rang out Moll Piteh- er’s voice: ] “Here’s a fair fight for you, and now we'll see it you'll hang me- uD: to a tree.” . : t nae > GHAPTER XVIII. IY WAS NOT FAI AWTER ALL. © 5) er " ed The two parties were about. Sie in ‘numbers, neha the thus closed ‘together. Ban Pe ae : The English fought with stubborn courage ‘tha ea jut | they oat te gave Ww bef re the | heavy ae als uinead? to. retreat in disorder, bearing: vio them, while another volley ieee . them by. half a ozen. bra ys
Page 28
26 MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. ) i “At them, lads!” cried Captain Hardy, “We'll cut them | “I would like to ask you, Phil, if you should ever get my to pieces!” father in your power, will ‘you spare his life?” : At them they went, and back fell the English in disorder, “You may be sure I will. But won’t you come along with - until their retreat became a total rout. us?” It was then a helter-skelter race along the road, the Amer- “I can’t. I want to go back and find out whether father icans slaying and picking up prisoners at almost every step.jis really married to Sally Friend or not.” At that moment a loud bugle call fell on the ears of the pur- Hearing the tramp of horses’ hoofs at that moment the _ Suers, and Captain Hardy cried: ; young fellow said: “Halt, friends, as that is a blast from an enemy coming to- “T must join my friends now, Edith, aad I hope I may see ward the city<: you before long.” 3 ; ‘9 The gallant Virginian spoke the truth, as a large body of “I hope so, Phil, and good-night to you.” English horsemen dashed ‘up, to the farmhouse while he was Phil then turned into a path and rode along, thinking that speaking. ' he was striking on his friends, when he suddenly found him- — Then out rushed the Tories, yelling: self surrounded by the English troopers, who. had just en- “Captain Darling is fighting the rebels up there, and ride] tered the wood, and Captain Darling cried: i to help him.” “You are in my power again, you young rebel, and I’ll see The troop thus auvivins numbered over a hundred horse- Pe ee of Bees oee fda2ig: trae Eee oe men, and they dashed-on to the rescue of their friends. TOURS enage Pp ee 8 c They soon met Captain Darling and his beaten troopers, (rooners, Cas He Was, Seam aea eH an CreniyN Gheas when the former cried: “Have at the rascals back there, colonel, and will wheel with you.” The Americans were drawing back at the moment, secur- ing the horses of the slain Englishmen, and tending to their wounded as well. 3 Captain Hardy soon saw that ‘he could not contend against the strong force riding against him, and he ordered a re- treat. The Americans rode away “in good ouaor: and the fresh English horsemen thundered along after them. On reaching the wood, Randy Marvin said: “Captain, hadn’t we better get in here, as I know paths that will take us to our camp in-short order?” “Just as you say, Randy, as you are our guide now.” They were about to turn into the wood, when Moll Pitcher looked around her, crying: “Phil, my boy, where are you?” “There was no response to the question, as Phil was not with the troop. The excited woman became almost frantic on discovering that her boy was among the missing again, and she yelled aloud: S “Phil, Phil, my darling boy, don’t say that you are in bad, luck again.” ‘ ; “Be quiet, Moll,” cautioned Randy Marvin,’ “as we don’t want the Bnglish to‘trail us now, and your boy will turn |. up all right.” me! _“But did any one see him we “He was riding beside me,” answered Randy, “until we were close on the edge of the wood behind here.” “Then where did he go to?” “I saw him fall out of line to speak to a boy on horseback at the edge of the wood,” answered one of the horsemen, “and they rode in this way together.” : ' “What boy could it be, and where have they. gone?” “I think it was my niece,” answered the spy. “Silence, now, as the English are in the wood after us.” ‘It was true that Phil Pitcher had turned out of the ranks to ‘speak to Edith Grimes. The young girl had ridden away from the mankeuse on one of her father’s horses, and she had watched the struggle with painful interest until the Americans retreated. ‘Phil then perceived her at the edge of the wood, and he rode to meet her, saying: Hardy.” “Will you not come with us now, Hdith, as I a you 2 In the meantime, ae ‘not be happy with your father?” \ sistas by a i See Dp 2h ‘ee Captain Darli “he yi ung: girl turned her horse. sate the wood, as ‘she an- e CHAPTER XIX. © ay MORE WORK THAT NIGHT, Yes, Phil Pitcher was a prisoner again, and in the power of one who was aiming for his destruction. : 4 Captain Darling was smarting over his late defeat by his old enemy; but he was extremely delighted to find the youne i fellow in his hands again. a Randy Marvin soon led his friends out on an old road, and f then away they went at a full gallop, Moll Pitcher looking back, as she moaned aloud: 5 Ae “Dear me, dear me, to think that I must leave my poor boy — behind me after all.” ; The English troopers had not,yet found their way out of the © wood, when along after the Ameticans rode a boyish figure on a swift bay horse. ‘ Moll was the first to perceive the horse and its wigan and — she drew up with the Spy to await their approach, praying E that it might be her own,boy himself, She was soon disappointed, however, as Randy Marvin cried Vout: “Here comes Edith now.” The disguised girl soon dashed up to them, otyings “Ride on, ride on as fast as you can, as the English will soon ‘ be out of the wood.” } ; “What did you do with my boy, at all?” demanded Molt, Bs as they rode on at full speed after their friends. “J am sorry to say that he was taken prisoner soon atec leaving me, but I think that we can release him again this very night.” : ii “How is it to be done, Edith?” ‘ , ays “If Captain Hardy could lead the English horsaielll on al fool’s errand for a while half a dozen of you Gould: bisa gx : about it, Think you will ie all safe if you ae back « open’ again by the main road, my gal?” “I think so, sir, as I am certain father don’t mean me roi harm.” i
Page 29
MOLL. PITCHER’S BOY. a as he was anxious to wipe out his defeat by crushing Captain Hardy in another quarter. The Tories and troopers bound the young fellow to a large Bost, which seryed as a support in the roomy old kitchen, and Gideon Grimes watched them, as he grunted out: “I'd give a good deal to know who gave you that file.” ut you'll never know it,” prisoner, with a defiant smile on his handsome face. Gideon Grimes suspected his daughter of assisting in the young fellow’s release, but he was not angry with the young girl on that account, as aBch action on her part would serve her purpose. The Tory leader moved out to the front door, and Sally followed him, as she said in low tones: “Gid Grimes, you are the blamedest fool I ever met in my life.” “How is that?” “T know what you have been thinking abit: and what ' makes you treat that young fellow in such a rough manner.” Sally then went on to give her views about Phil Pitcher and Edith. The tramp of galloping horses was heard outside as they were speaking, and Gideon Grimes whispered to Sally: “Darn it all, here comes the troopers back now, and they will block our game.” ; “Not if I can help it,” answered the tricky girl; “ will help me.” “Go ahead, then.” Gideon Grimes moved out to the front yard, where he found Captain Darling and the remnant of his troop. “What’s up now?” inguired the Tory leader. didn’t you strike on the rebels again?” “We didn’t, confound them.” oN “How is that?” “We have been chasing them right around here in a half circle, and Major Dixon is after them yet. Fearing that they and Edith “And why would strike backs here at you I came with my troop to guard ; _ the prisoner,” “The prisoner is all right, Captain Darling.” “I will make him safer still by taking him back to New York at once, as I have business in the city to-night. Bring him right out here at once and I will take care of him.” Gideon Grimes was much acres at the order, but he had _ to obey. Sally and Bdith heard the words uttered by Captain Dar- ling, also. / » . d x } 4 The. faithful girl gave a deep sigh, and said to herself: ; “Tsn’t it too bad they came so soon, and Uncle Randy and ‘the others coming to his rescue; but they mustn’t give up ee work if they have to follow them clear down to the Har- lem River.” CHAPTER XX.: STILL AFTER HER BOY. y J ¢ * _ While Phil Pitcher was being dragged forth to be led to New ork, his mother, Randy Marvin and five of the Virginia Troopers were drawn up in the lane at the back of the or- ‘ “Who's taking him off to New opeped inquired the excited if woman. “Captain Darling; and you can soon hear them.”: “How many men is Captain Darling taking with him?” “About five or six, I think, sir.” ‘ “Then let us be after them and rescue my eseeia said Moll answered the manly young impatiently. The brave woman was then dressed in male attire. On starting out from New York City in quest of her boy, Moll had taken the precaution fo put on a suit of rough male attire under her proper garments, so that she could change her appearance in very short order if necessary. She then appeared in the character of an Irishman just landed, and she wore an old cap that could be drawn aawh over her eyes. While they were thus Speaking, the spy could hear Captain Darling and his party riding away with the prisoner. . Moll Pitcher heard them also, ang she started her horse, as she said: “There they go, and let us be after them and rescue my boy.” Edith then returned to the farmhouse, and Moll Pitcher and her friends moved away in pursuit of the English party. They had to move very cautiously, as they were then tread- ing on dangerous ground. From the farmhouse to the Harlem river, which was about ten miles, the country swarmed with Tories and parties “of English troopers out in search:of forage. After riding a little distance Randy advised the troopers to ride back, saying: _ “You will strike your troop by moving cautiously ease to the right. We can do better, that is, Moll and I, by follow- ing her son together.” ‘ Moll did not object to the’ arrangement, as she was wise enough to know that her oe must now be rescued by strat- egy. * When Edith returned to the house her father had retired ‘}to bed, and Sally prepared to go with Edith on the journey after the prisoner, which she had persuaded Edith was the best way to rescue the young prisoner. The cunning girl made up well as a lad ating in the coun- try, and they were both mounted on the best horses in the Tory troop. . 1 Captain Darling pushed on with his prisoner at a round gallop, and the party did not halt until they reached a small © tavern on the upper bank of the Harlem River, where they proposed to wait until daylight to cross over in a boat. After a brief delay the English officer decided to cross the ‘river and push on to New York with his prisoner, as he had made up his mind to bear him away to England as soon as possible. He did succeed in crossing the river with his party, ana they then pushed on down to the city. } As they neared the city daylight was breaking, and Cap- jtain Darling addressed the prisoner, saying: “Tf you will give me your word of honor not to attempt an escape I will treat you as a companion’ and sah | as a prisoner.” “T will do nothing of the kind.” “Then I must put you on board an Bnglish Ship as soon - as possible. 4 _ The prisoner was taken to a Ce oe house on Whitehall Street that morning and placed in a room. on the third floor. |of the small city. ; ict _ “Well, bo is rater cae The front windows of the room looked out on the Battery, “which was even then a Pleasant pp for the ones
Page 30
eR Gre MOLL my rescue; but we had far the best of the fight, anyhow, and I don’t despair yet.” : The cords were removed from the young fellow’s arms, but the door of the room was locked and bolted on both sides, and two English troopers kept guard in the passage. 4 After dinner the young prisoner was led out of the house in charge of four troopers, two of whom were, Captain Dar- ling’s body ‘servants. The officer himself walked beside the young man, as he said to him: ’ “It will be of no use to you to attempt to escape, as I have others watching you around here until we réach the boat.” They were passing through the Battery, and Phil cast his . eyes around at the different pares who were strolling ~~ about. Then a joyous feeling warmed his heart, and he said.to himself: “My friends do not forget me, and that good mother of mine is too daring for anything.” « The. prisoner had recognized his mother in a rough-looking Irishman who was seated under a tree smoking a pipe. A short distance away from her appeared Hanoy, Marvin, who had assumed the character of a sailor. : . Other eyes were watching Phil. at the time, as waith and _ Sally had arrived in the city also to work for him. But what inspired the Jad with the greatest admiration was to. perceive another character in ‘the play on the scene. That other character was the brave Captain Hardy, who was “paying a visit to the city fora triple purpose. The daring Virginian was spying on the English army; he was working for the rescue of his friend, and he was geeking final satisfaction from Captain Darling for inst Rage to him in England years before. The prisoner was led on board a boat at a landing in the Battery, and he was soon moving over the water of the bay toward an English vessel lying at anchor in the North River. CHAPTER XXI. rs THE FRIENDS IN DISGUISE, “The English merchant vessel on which the prisoner soon found himself was about four hundred tons burden, and her crew consisted of fourteen or fifteen men in all. ' Phil was then placed in a small apartment at Med back of _ the cabin. Captain Darling placed the ni: sérvants on guard near the door, as he said to. them: ““T will have your lives if that youne gentleman escapes “while Iam on shore this evening.” "The plotting officer left the vessel soon’ after that, taking ie. two other troopers ‘on shore with him. The mate of the vessel and five sailors were the ont others i ‘eft on board that evening, as most of the evrew were making merry on shore on the last night before starting on the voyage. Two of the sailors left on board that night had den engaged for the yoyage late that afternoon. _ "The two tlate ts ee together a the forcaste, the mate cn ee, what busin plied: PITCHER’S BOY. “No; he: is on sshore.” The mate stepped out from the cabin at that iaGriaee and moved to the side of the vessel, as he inqu‘red: ag ; “T have charge of the vessel, and what io you want?” “TI am a poor divil that is homesick, and I want to go back with you,” answered the rough man in the boat. “Have you money to pay your passage?” Ae “To be sure, as I have forty pounds here in my purse. 249 “Then come on board, and I'll tend to you.” . A rope ladder was lowered, and the homesick passenger if sprang up on;:deck, saying: “Bring up. my boxes, boys, and I’ll dettle with you on ES i: here.” wed The men in the boat handed up a small chest to the ins. lish sailors, and they were soon on deck themselves. The mate stared at the would-be passenger, and he saw that he remarked: he was a rough-looking Irishman. i * “Come: into the cabin, Paddy,” he said, and count out wand pounds to me for your passage.” { “To be sure I will, but that is pretty Mea, as T only. seath to go in the steerage.” capt “We won’t take you for Jess, and none of your palaver 01 we won’t take you at all.” ¢ “Then Ill pay it down on the nail and no more about ot, 7% 4 “ ! The rough Irishman spoke very ee as he entered oe: cabin, and Phil could hear the yoice, while he said to him self: \ i; “Blame my eyes, if that isn’t mother! ” By passing into the cabin the disguised woman exchange significant glances with the two strange sailors, and t moved toward the boatmen soon after. On reaching the cabin the disguised woman began outing 4 some bank notes, as’ she said to the mate: ; “Have you many, “passengers on hoard at all, sir?) “Only five beside yourself.” °° / ? Moll stared in at the two fellows who were guarding ~ son, as she inquired: Mae) “Are them two of them in tiene standing itke dumb men; ie over a corpse?” heseee : Me) fellow who is out of his mind.” “And where is the poor fellow at all?” aig “He is in the small room at the end of the passage’ there. f “Murder alive!” cried Moll in very loud tones, “and must I go back to the old fand in company with a dee ee expression on the creature’ s§ face, and then replied: bi! Supe the young madman bial se hurt you. any.” ae the time?” | j “Certainly, if he is not better when we » get out to sea “And couldn’t they ‘move in here ‘to take a —, of good brandy T brought on board?” | z fis i See Nees up in his room.” te Bist The fellows watching over Phil readily ee tation and stepped out into thesfront cabin. = “It is the finest stuff you ever tasted, as I pea? cousin, who keeps a hotel in the ‘city there" ' “It is good stuff.” The two servants eae
Page 31
5 MOLL PITCHER’S BOY. ae a ee eee ee ee eee _— “Mutiny!” cried the mate, as the two Strange sailors dashed into the cabin and presented pistols at the servants, while - Moll covered the mate with one of her weapons, as she cried: “Tt isn’t mutiny at all, but fair play. Wasn’t that fine brandy, and don’t you feel the good of it already?” “The infernal stuff is drugged!” gasped the mate, as he staggered back and fell to the floor. Phil’ s two guards reeled at the same moment, one of them gasping forth: “We are done for, Tom!” One of the sailors laughed heartily as he saw the two fel- lows falling to the floor in a senseless state, and he then turned to Moll, saying: “That was nice ae old girl, and ‘the fellows above are bound and gagged.” \ At that moment one of the boatmen rushed into the cabin, erying: “Hurry, hurry, as there is a boat filled with sailors rowing _to the ship.” CHAPTER XXII. A FIGHT FOR IT. Phil’s friends were a little alarmed at the boatman’s words, and they hastened to break in the door of the apartment where the young fellow was confined, - The young fellow sprang out and embraced his mother, as he inquired: “How did you work it?” Captain Hardy was one of the pretended sailors, and he soon’ commanded the party on the instant, saying: “We have no time for explanations now, as a boat full of -gailors are pushing this way, and we may have to fight for it | before we get away.” “Then out with us!” said Phil, as he sprang out into the outer cabin and seized a sword and pistol hanging there. The two boatmen who had assisted Moll Pitcher were Ameri- can seamen who had isi Rai: from an English war vessel. ‘ Phil and his rescuers were soon on the deck, where the English sailors were lying, bound and gagged. 9 At that moment a voice from the water hailed the ship, ~ erying: 4 “Tg all well on board there?” “AN is well,” answered Captain Hardy at once. The boat contained eight sailors belonging to the merchant- man, and their captain, together With Captain Darling and four English troopers. : \ ‘The sea captain did not like the. appearance. of things on oard as he neared his vessel, and he called on the others to e ‘ready for a fight. The boat had searcely struck ‘the ‘ebautt when those on ard * sprang suddenly upon the bulwarks. and sent a volley Er L their pistols into the English, Captain Hardy crying: % Bs st Mata for Washington, and Liberty forever!’ of a9 The boatmen then seized the oars, and so did Randy Marvin and Captain Hardy, the latter crying: . “Now away with you for dear life!” A yell of rage burst from the Hnglish, some of whom were springing on the deck after their captain. Captain Darling’s voice was then heard yelling: . “The rascals are flying; let us pursue them! Fire on the scoundrels! ” Some of the English sailors did fire at their foe, but the ‘| balls flew wild. The English sea captain then sprang back into his yawl again, crying: “Man the oars and give chase to the pirates, as they must have murdered my men left on board!” The tide was running in, and away toward the Jersey 8 swept the boat containing Moll Pitcher and her friends. ae The English boat was soon in motion’ after it, six stout sailors pulling on as many oars. The English frigates lying in the harbor sent up signals on hearing the shots near the merchantmen and boats were pushed out from two of them. Moll Pitcher sat beside her boy in i stern of the boat, and she said to him: “This is the closest work we have had yet, my boy!” “So it is, mother.” “The villains behind us are gaining on us now, and it is a pity we haven’t a gun or two to put a stop to them.” “Load your pistols and fire at them again when they come within range!” cried Captain Hardy. “T’ll load for you all,” said Moll, “and hand them back pansy to me.” The pistols were handed back to Moll by the four rowers — and she commenced to load them as she remarked: “The rogues are eine on us again, and pull for dear lives, boys!” One of the sailors ¢ast his eyes ahead and then responded, saying: “One more purst for it, boys, ahd then we'll strike on the shore ahead of them!” © ; ae “Then row it is!” said Randy Marvin. “T am pulling as I never pulled before! ” replied Captain Hardy, who was puffing from the unusual exercise. - Captain Darling’s voice then rang out, crying: © “Give the rascals a volley now!” sil The Englishman fired as he gave the order ate the. | troopers fired with him. ey lic wo. The sea captain had manned one of the oars as “hig ce were’: a iv short-handed, although he had released the sailors on. deck, who had been secured by the patriots. >) One of the bullets from the English boat struck the seat risat i % F Moll Pitcher, and she turned to Phil, saying: ” “Let us try our hands with the panes now! rads “All right, mother.” ol lie They fired together? and a ery of agony from the dort boat told that one of the shots had. found its mark at Teast. ; Another yell o7 “age burst, from the Englishmen, which was. Ss re-echoed by the crew of a boat in an English sens fol- | lowing after. prea abe “Fire again it is, ‘nother! \ The pistol shots rang out again, Captain Darl
Page 32
30 MOLL “Hurrah! hurrah!” “And now we’ll see who has the best legs! ” The Americans seized their pistols again and sprang on shore to dart into the wood not many yards away. ; The fugitives soon reached an old road running along the shore, and Captain Hardy then said: “We had a fight and a,chase on ae water for it, and now I think we'll have a chase on shore.’ “That’s a fact!” remarked Randy Marvin, coming on after us.” “They are yelling like mad Injins,” said Moll Pitcher, “but we will have \the laugh on them at last.” “If we can gain the hill above, ahead of them, we are all right,” responded one of the sailors. “Then let us all put our best foot foremost and I’ll wager Tt won’t be the last man in the race,” said Moll, in her droll way. The little party dauhed on together along the road, Captain Hardy warning his friends to load their pistols again, and he coneluded by saying: “Thank goodness that we all secured swords, if it does come to close quarters!” The English struck out on the road at that time, and a fierce yell burst from them as_ they beheld their foes darting away toward the hill. “Yell away, you villains!” cried Moll; “but (ll wager my life yell never get my boy in your hands again.” “Why, mother, you can beat us all running!” remarked Phil, “Silence, and don’t waste breath!” ordered Captain Hardy, as he gazed back at his foes. “Those sailors run like the mischief, and I only hope that Captain Darling can keep up with them, as I would like to settle with him to-night, if we must come to another fight.” “Who is wasting their breath now?” asked Moll Pitcher. “Then be silent all until we gain the wood on the hill,” said _ \Captain Hardy. “as I hear them CHAPTER XXII. THE SPY LEADS THE WAY, Over twenty active English sailors were in pursuit of the five - Americans and Moll Pitcher, and Captain Darling led the party. _ That young officer was not wounded as badly as he pretended to be when reporting to his general during the day, as he was then able to keep up with the active sailors. © The Americans made splendid time until they gained the foot of the hill, and they reached a wood soon after, when Randy Marvin said to his friends: - “Tyr to the right, tow, and I have something to propose to you, Captain lardy. m ‘ “What is it, andy?” 5 “What do you say if we play the fox with the British?” “How is that?” “Let us turn on them here in the wood as they ain’t oeee a pin at trailing, and make back to the shore again.” “That is. a good plan. And do you know this locality ?” “Of course; it is my business to page every spot around here.” ; ; _ “Then lead the way.” . While they were thus speaking the Americans were not lin- ge ing as they pushed on toward the river again. : he English party gained the “wood about that time, and PITCHHR’S BOY. cried Moll as the boat struck the shore. | Randy Marvin led his party along down to a swamp, across ~ which a narrow footpath extended. : The English could not see that path from the upper road, and those who pushed into the wood could not track their enemies in the darkness. The spy soon reached the path leading down to the swamp, and he led his friends into a grove, afterward known as the Fe Elysian Fields. ; : Unfortunately for the Americans two of the. English sailors were straggling along the lower road after their comrades, and they perceived the Americans returning along the swamp. The sailors then hastened forward to the edge of the wood ~ and informed their officers of what they had seen. AX The men in the wood were then called out and the whole party started. back at full speed. Randy. Maryin kept leading his friends along, and they all. moved as silently as possible until they gained a point in the wood in front of which the three boats were lying. - as The Americans halted inside the wood and peered out at those who were guarding the boats, while Captain Hardy re- — marked: “There are two troopers and four sailors down there, and I | think one of the troopers is wounded.” While thus speaking the brave Virginian cast his eye over — his friends and proceeded to arrange them in the. order that % suited him. ate “We will walk out quietly,” he eentinued) “and -fire on the foes in the order I have placed you; when we are within fair pistol range of them I will give the word and all fire at once.” The spy started a little at the moment and then bent his — ear to the ground, saying: ; “The English are coming back after us, as sure as es and ih they are in the wood behind "us now.” “Then out with us in the boats!” ordered Captain Hicdy. “and stand together like heroes! ” The Americans moved out in one column, but they had not — advanced many steps before one of the English near the boat cried out: ‘ ; : “Who comes there?” OF rg aes ““Fyjends of America! ” cried eae Hardy. “Fire togeth * my lads!” 4 Six pistols went off together and three of the phe: sail fell. is Dash at them, now, and ut with tne boats! ” eried Captai Hardy as he fired another pistol. ! Cries of dismay burst from the startled English who surviv the volleys, and the Americans were on them with their sword before they. could return a shot. : The English party guarding the boat did not offer the sl wnt est resistance when the Americans rushed on them, the. sur- vivors crying. for Conca “ : poate the brave woman - erying: 7 Ree | “You can handle an oar, Phil, etal so can I. Ae ; you! de “530 “Out with us it is, mother! A ae - Captain Hardy and the ‘spy took possession of the thin and they were the last to push out from shore. a (par pee were not many eee from the. coca when ae in
Page 33
MOLL PITCHER'S BOY. Pie he sprang up from the seat at once and Bis a pistol at his enemy, as he cried: “What is the trouble, Edith?” “My father died last.night. He was not a good man, but “That’s one for me, Captain Darling, and now here’s a return} he was kind to me.” ‘ fcr you!” \ The American fired while speaking, and a cry of agony burst from the English officer as he fell to the beach, groaning forth: “He has killed me!” Seizing the oar again the brave Virginian ¢ried: “Now, out with us, Randy!” “But are you not wounded, captain?” “Only slightly. Pull, pull, as the shots are rattling around us!” Some of the English sailors ran out into the water, above their waists, to fire at the Americans, all of whom escaped uninjured except the brave Virginian. Yells of rage burst from the English sailors as they saw the boats gliding away out of their reach, and the captain of the merchantman cried: “The rascals cannot escape as other boats are putting out / from the warships! ” The three boats were brought together when they were out of reach of the English fire,,Captain Hardy saying: “Let us into the small boat together, ane then up the river with us as fast as we can!” The brave man staggered as he stepped into the small boat, and Randy Marvin assisted him as he remarked: “T fear you are badly hurt, captain.” “T am not, old friend; but I’ll take a seat here in the stern, and Phil will pull for me.” “Willingly, sir; and sorry I will be if you are injured badly.” CHAPTER XXIV. CONCLUSION. Two English boats were pushing up the river, and they soon started in pursuit of the daring Americans. ; Moll Pitcher hastened to examine Captain Hardy’s wounds, when she soon exclaimed: “It is bleeding freely, but that’s a good sign; and I don’t , think the ball is inside at all.” ' EB The good woman then hastened to stop the bleeding, as she aa J think you did for Captain Darling that time, my brave Eine,” 5 Ris: “T can’t say that I am sorry, Moll, as I had reason to’ hate _ the rascal. 3 . _ “What did he do to you at all?” “He insulted me grossly in England three years ago, and he stole a young lady from me by a trick that no gentleman could use, is} es At that time the boat was gliding along by the Jersey shore, and the pursuers had given up the chase. Two hours afterward the Americans landed near a fort on e Jersey side of the river, which was held by the Americans. ‘When the friends entered that fort, George Washington was e first to receive them, and the noble general soon held a consultation with the wounded officer. : On the following day Randy Marvin and Phil Pitcher erossed to the New York side, in disguise, and made: their way to the. neighborhood of the old farmhouse. Cy Scout set out to watch the place as he said to his young nd: : If my niece is there, as I told her to be, I will bring her spy retumed an about an hour after, and Hdith was with ing, and Phil inquired: 1 bie onder by return ™ “And what has become of Sally?” - “She remained down in New York, as she could not get away | again, for I had taken her pass,” answered Edith. : They did not hear any more about the cunning girl, as she was never seen thereafter by her old friends. Phil and his friends returned to the fort that night, where they were all received by Moll Pitcher in the most happy manner. That brave woman continued with ine American army until the close of the war, and she was afterward rewarded by Congress for her bravery at the battle of Monmouth. Captain Hardy recovered from his wound, but the brave soldier fell- afterward, while making a raid on the Tories in Westchester County. : ‘Randy Marvin acted as a spy and a scout to the end, and he then retired to his farm in New Jersey, with his niece, Edith Grimes. At the close of the war Moll Pitcher held a serious conver- sation with her adopted son, when she informed him that he was heir to a title and a large property in Ireland. “T didn’t want to tell you before, my boy,” she said, “because you couldn’t go over there for it.” “Then why did you bring me away from Ireland when I was a little boy?” | “Because your good mother, who was Captain Darling’s sis- ter, was afraid that old Lord Darling would rob you and ruin you before you were aman. He had charge of the property, by law, but he couldn’t sell anything until you were of age. ‘Your mother was afraid that he would get you under his thumb while you were a boy, and that was why she begged me to take charge of you as she lay on her dying bed.” “Where was my father, then?” “He was shot three months before, and I firmly believed it was Lord Darling put him to death.” . “Then would you advise me to go back and look after the property?” “By all means, as I hold the papers to prove that you are entitled to the property and to an English re too, if you want it.” “Not much, mother, as I have: won an American title for myself that is better by far.” The young man did go to Ireland to recover his estate, which, ; he succeeded in doing after a good deal of trouble. - On his return to America Phil paid a visit to a certain farm in Jersey, where he was warmly received by Edith and her uncle. : - In less than three months after there was a happy marriage in that old farmhouse; and Moll Pitcher and Randy Marvin were present when Hdith became the young soldier’s wife. The brave woman lived with her adopted son. until the close of her life, and she called him her boy even when he had sons and daughters growing up givund him. i [THE END.] Ve Read “WH,” by Richard R. Montgomery, which will he the next number (201) us “Pluck and Luck. . ‘ SPECIAL NOTICE: All back numbers of this weekly are always in print. If you cannot obtain them from any | newsdealer, send the price in money or postage stamps. by — mail to FRANK TOUSEY, PUBLISHER, 24 UNION SQUARE, NEW YORK, an ae will *eciirs the « cane
Page 34
pLhauckK AND LBucEK. CONTAINS ALL SORTS OF STORIES. EVERY STORY COMPLETE. 4 32 PAGES. BEAUTIFULLY COLORED COVERS. PRICE 5 CENTS. ae LATEST ISSUES: 186 The Poorest Boy in New York, and How He Roce . 171 “The Lone Star”; or, The Masked Riders of Texas. Rich. By N.S. Wood, the Young American Actor. By Allyn Draper. 187 Jack Wright, the Boy Inventor; or, Hunting ee, a -172 A New York Boy Out With Stanley; or, A Journey: Sunken Treasure. By ‘“Noname.” Through Africa. By Jas. C. Merritt. | 188 On, Time; or, The Young Engineer Rivals: An Bx 173 Afloat With Captain Nemo; or, The Mystery of citing Story of Railroading in the Northwest. By Whirlpool Island. By Capt. Thos. H. Wilson. | Jas. C. Merritt. E 174 Two Boys’ Trip to an Unknown Planet. By Richard | 189 Red Jacket; or, The Boys of the Farm-House Fort. “ R. Montgomery. By An Old Scout. 175 The Two Diamonds; or, A Mystery of the South | !?? His’ First Glass of Wine; or, The Temptations of African Mines, By Howard Austin. City Life; A True Temperance Story. By At B. Dowd. 191 The Coral City; or, The Wonderful Graise: of the Yacht Vesta. By Richard R. Montgomery. 192 Making a Million; or, A Smart Boy’s Career in Wall Street. By /H. K. Shackleford. 193 Jack Wright and His Electric Turtle; or, Ghani the Pirates of the Spanish Main. By “Noname. m 194 Flyer Dave, the Boy Jockey; or, Riding t the Winner. By Allyn Draper. | . & 195 The Twenty Gray Wolves; or, pane a ae 176 Joe, the Gymnast; or, Three Years Among the Japs By Allan’ Arnold. 177 Jack Hawthorne, of No Man’s Land; or, An Un- crowned King. By “Noname.” 478 Gun-Boat Dick; or, Death Before Dishonor. By Jas. C. Merritt; 7 179 A Wizard of Wall Street; or, The Career of Henry Carew, Boy Banker. By H. K. Shackleford. 180 Fifty Riders in Black; or, The Ravens of Raven Forest. By Howard Austin. King. By Howard Austin, 181 The Boy Rifle Rangers; or, Kit Carson’s Three Young | 195 The Palace of Gold; or, The Secret of a Lost Race Scouts. By An Old Scout. By Richard R. Montgomery. _ 182 Where? or, Washed rats an Unknown World. By} 497 Jack Wright’s Submarine Catamaran; or, The Phan “Noname. “i tom Ship of the Yellow Sea. By “Noname.’ aes, 183 Fred Fearnaught, The Boy Commander; or, The|198 A a Cristo at 18; or, From Slave to ate is “Wolves of the Sea. By Capt. Thos. H. Wilson. Allyn. Draper. , 184 From Cowboy to Congressman; or, The Rise of a| 199 ie Floating Gold Mine; or, Adrift in an Unknow nee -—* Young Ranchman. By H. K. Shackleford. Sea. By Capt. Thos. H. Wilson. — bat 485 Sam Spark, the Brave Young Fireman; or, Always | 200 Moll Pitcher’s Boy; or, As Brave- -as His Mother. if the First on Hand. By Ex-Fire Chief Warden. Gen’l Jas. A. Gordon. ins PRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square; Ne ew - IF YOU WANT ANY BACK NUMBERS » _ of our Libraries and cannot procure them from newsdealers, they can be obtained from this office direct. Cut out an in the following Order Blank and send it to us with the price of the books you want and we ee send them to turn mail. POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. eR ORO Re ee ee ew eH ee eed ww we me ee mee CHO EEO ee ewww eer eter eee tees es BESET SHEE FEHR OSES i: FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Gia! Square, New York. TR Se ee ee eee s _ Dear Pee peolred find. ....cents for which please send me: pet PLUCK AND LUCK « .. ORE NS ae BT is at atic Uy Ms Ae SER a CR Tay PAU ORME SMRVECE: US? cts eh ea PRR Hen i A\ e _ © “THE LIBERTY BOYS OF 76, Nos......... sete hart ade ay ean tes « ‘Ten-Cent Hand ae ile ae BE gee pes kpeaas . ey Reeth veces cae ones 8
Page 35
THE STAGE. a No. 41. THE BOYS OF NEW YORK BND MEN'S . BOOK.-~-Containing a great variety of ‘the se jokes used & thost ‘f: ae care Ree a amateur minstrels is complete 7 y di ttle the Oe THE BOYS OF NEW YORK STUMP SP presse 7 + oe Bie a Sontaining -# varied assortment of stump speeches, Negro, itch ona and Irish, Also end men’s jokes, Just the thing for home ment, and amateur shows. No. 45, THE BOYS: OF NEW YORK aINSTREL aus " Tull ingtructious for of ‘fully. AND JOKE BOOK—Something new andy noy shoyldvobtain this book, as it contains ganiz ng an amateur minstrel troupe. No. 65. MULDOON’S JOKHS: ee This j is one of the most. original joke books éver published, and it is brimful of wit and ‘humor, It sontains a large collection of sonxzs, jokes,: conundrums, ete, Terretice Muldoon, the great wit, humorist and’ practical: umcedh ee kee the day. Byery boy who ean enjoy a good substantial joke. abtain’a. copy. immediately, No. 79: 410 W lete Sean together with the duties of the Stage Mana’ Seonic Artist and Property. Man. By ae rominent: No. 80; GUS WILLIAMS’ JOKE B get jokes, anecdotes and fury ‘stories of this world-ren > dyer, ‘popular German” comedian, .. Sixty-four pages ; aglored cover containing a half-tone photo of the npilncoei HOUSEKEEPING: o. 16; HOW TO KEBP A WINDOW GARDEN: dintatetnn red .and alt instructions for consttucting. a window. garden either in: ue f or country, and the most ‘approved methods’ for: rene Bae ers at. home, .'The-most complete book of, the kind ever sat 8 shed, No, 30. HOW TO.COOK.—One of the ‘most instructive: rd oh cooking’ ever pulilished. | Ft contains ‘recipes for* Se ein fish, game and oysters; also pies, puddings, cakes and all inde pastry, and a grand collection of recipes by one of our most pdauiae fookK, No, 87. HOW TO KEEP HOUSH—It contains information for avérybody, boys, girls, men and women; it will teach you how to’ make almost anything around the house, such as parlor ornaments, brackets, cements, Aeolian harps, and bird’ lime for catching bai ELECTRICAL, No. 46. HOW TO MAKE AND. USE DLECTRICITY—A de- scription of the wonderful uses 6f electricity and electro magnetism; :} together with full ins eons for pw Hlectrie Poys, Batteries, ete, By George: Trebel, A. Ms. M. Containing over fifty il- i Seep HOW TO MAKE EPLYUOTRICAL MACHINES.—Con- taitting oral directions for making electrical machines, induction edils, dynamos, and many: novel toys to be worked by electricity. By R. ALR. Bennett: Fully illustrated, No. 67. HOW TO DO ELECTRICAL TRICKS. eet ae large collection of instructive and Highly amusing electrical tri together with illustrations. By A, Anderson. ENTERTAINMENT. No. & HOW TO BECOME A cee By Hairy Kennedy. The secret given away. . very intelligent boy reading this book of instructions, by a practical professor tudes every night with his wonderful imitations),-can thaster the art, and create any amount of fun for himself and friends. Tt is the greatest book ever published, and there's millions (of fun) in it. No,'20) HOW: TO ENTERTAIN AN EVENING PARTY—-A fery valuable little book just published. A complete compendium of games, sports, card diversions, comic recitations, efc.,’ suitable for parlor or drawing-room entertainment. | It contains more for the money than any book published. Nov 852 FC Ww TO PLAY GAMBS.—-A complete and useful little Hook, containing the rales, and preniances of billiards, bagatelle, bac kgammon, éroquet, dominoes, etc No. 86) HOW-TO SOLVE ‘CONUNDRUMS.—Oontaining all the leading conundrums'of the day, amusing riddles, curious eatches and witty sayings: No, 52., HOW TO PLAY GARDS—-A complete and handy Jittle book, giving the rules and full directions for playing Huchre, Orib- bage, Oasino, Forty-five, Rounce, Pedtfo Sancho, Draw © Poker, Auction Pitch, All’ Fours and many other popular games of cards. No. 66, HOW-TO DO PUZZLYS~—Containing overthree lun- dred interesting puzzles and conundrums with, key. to ‘same. szompleté book. Bully illustrated. By A. Anderson: ETIQUETTE. No. 18. HOW TO DO IT; OR, BOOK OF. ETIQUETTH At sa great life secret, and one that every young man-desires to know all about. There’s happiness’ in it. No. 33. HOW TO BEHAVE.—Containing the rules and. eti- qnette of good society and the easiest and most approved ‘metliods appearing to good advantage at parties, balls, the theatre, church end in the drawing-room, DECLAMATION. 27. HOW TO RECITE AND BOOK-OF RECITATION®) -Co fata the most popular selections in use, comprising Dutch ai ialeet, French dialect, Yankee and Irish dialect pieces, together with many standard readings. TO. BECOME AN A HOR —Containing: diel instructions how to make up for Various Riiiig on the} berg. tage “Manager, |.2 K.—Containing the lat: || be 1 Se multi-. PRICE 10 CENTS EACH, OR 3 POR ‘05, : ee ace Address FRANK TOUSEY, Pablisher, 24 Union Square, - ‘New Ye he oe i ei 50, How TO STUPE BI able book, giving instracti *) i | Sr ee Roe ae sale ana ca K 0. 4, VAG PIT Ecine Greta aad & ie anos Be of pole i ing, breeding an: : of pets y instructions for. cages, ete. | Bully explain eight illustrations, m: eg ase st complete ever publiaheds: jorge | aaa A , Mis ens No: & now TO BECOME A” aay hein da lg com! - a ; neler 8 cous nics, one bi, eo fireworks, £0 Tip oe ei: all hte of can No. 19. es chee TOU Wes TABLES, official ee on all) Canada, “Also table-of fares in the principal aa it one of the No, 38) HOW: 0B derful: book: pe lal useful ‘and: pr: Pere of ordinary’ diseases | family. Abounding in, ‘useful an ands ates coins: : No: OW: a8. B the world-kno: and sensible ru os nd and: experiences of well-knowa detec 0. 60, HOW TO BRCO. oF jing daeful information regarc also how to make Photogra Transparencies, Handsome! ae 8. :62.. HOW: TO me A "WHST pty CADET tai “full a ee ae course” of : ene a Hoy Duties Sait burs Mee Stu Guard, Police eae Ts ala = of “Efow to. Berth: HAN AVAL Wee No.
Page 36
WHAT DO YOU WANT 10 KNOW? Frank Tousey’s Ten Cent Hand Books Tell You Everything. | FOR COMPLETE CATALOGUE SEE INSIDE OF COVER PAGES.