Pluck And Luck (no. 313) (1904 06 01)

Page 1

Issued Weekly—By Subscription $2.50. per year. Entered as Second Class Matter at the New York Post Office NEW YORK. JUNE 1, 1904. 5 Cents.

Page 2

Thesé* Books’ Te } - ra “ae Each book consists of sixty-four pages, printed on good paper. st of the books are also profusely illustrated, and all of the sub id can thoroughly understand them. mtioned. f ll You Evérything! ? 4 GOMPLETE SET I$ A REGULAR ENCYCLOPEDIA! = in clear type and neatly bound in an attra¢tive, iMustrated- cover jects treated upon are explained in such a simple ma , : a ae ee ale “ntaiobil ‘ ett Suen & Ss hanner that ars Look over the list as classified and see if you want to know anything about the subject THESE BOOKS ARE FOR SALE BY ALL. NEWSDEALERS OR WILL PE SENT BY MAIL TO ANY ADDRES fROM THIS OFFICE ON RECEIPT OF PRICE, TEN CENTS E ACH, OR ANY THREE BOOKS FOR TWENTY-FIVI NTS. POSTAGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. Address FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, N_Y a MESMERISM. yo. 81. HOW TO MESMERIZE.—Containing the most ap- bved methods of meésmerism; also how to cure all kinds of | ases by animal magnetism, or, magnetic healing. By Prof. Leo go Koch, A. C. S., author of “How to Hypnotize,” ete. PALMISTRY. fo. 82. HOW TO DO PALMISTRY.—Containing the most ap- wed methods of reading the lines on the hand, together with ull explanation of their meaning. Also explaining phrenology, f the key for telling character by the bumps on the head. By Hugo Koch, A. C. S$. Fully illustrated. : HYPNOTISM. ‘o. 88. HOW TO HYPNOTIZE.—Containing valuable and in- ctive information regarding the science of hypnotism. Also plaining the most approved methods which are employed by the ing hypnotists of the world. By Leo Hugo Koch, A.C.S. iding SPORTING. No. 21. HOW TO HUNT AND FISH.—The most complete Inting and fishing guide ever published, It contains full in- ructions about guns, hunting dogs, traps, trapping and fishing, tether with descriptions of game and fish. Jo. 26. HOW TO ROW, SAIL AND BUILD A BOAT.—Fully strated. Every boy should know how to row and Sail a boat. Nl instructions are given in this little book, together with in- ‘tions on swimming and riding, companion sports to boating. ®No. 47. HOW TO BREAK, RIDE AND DRIVE A HORSE.— tomplete treatise on the horse. Describing the most useful horses business, the best horses for the road; also valuable recipes for eases pecaliar to the horse. ; 0. 48. HOW TO BUILD AND SAIL CANOES.—A handy bk for boys, containing full directions for constructing canoes mi the most popular manner of sailing them, Fully illustrated. | C. Stansfield Hicks, a FORTUNE TELLING. *No. 1. NAPOLEON’S ORACULUM AND DREAM BOOK.— ntaining the great oracle of human destiny; also the true méan- ig of almost any kind of dreams. together with charms, ceremonies, bd curious games of cards. A complete beok, No, 23, HOW TO EXPLAIN DREAMS.—Everybody dreams, m the ‘little child to the aged man and woman, This little book es the explanation to all kinds of dreams, together with lucky pa unlucky days, and “Napoleon’s Oraculum,” the book of fate. No, 28. HOW TO TELL FORTUNES.— Everyone is desirous of | snowing what his future life will bring forth, whether happiness or | isery, wealth or poverty, You can tell by a glance at this little pok. Buy one and be conyinced. Tell your own fortune. Tell e fortune of your friends. soled te No. 76. HOW TO TELL FORTUNES BY THE HAND.— | ntaining rules for telling fortunes by the aid of lines of the hand, the secret of palmistry. Also the secret of telling future events Illustrated.’ By A. Anderson, » gid of moles, marks, scars, ete. ATHLETIC. 33 No. 6. HOW TO BECOME AN ATHLETE—Giving full in- ruction for the use of dumb bells, Indian clubs, parallel bars, prizontal bars and various other methods of developing a good, ealthy muscle; containing over sixty illustrations. Every boy can come strong and healthy by following the instructions contained this little book. ‘ : No. 10. HOW TO BOX.—The art of self-defense made easy. ntaining over thirty illustrations of guards, blows, and the diifer- t positions of a good boxer. Every boy should obtain one of sese useful and inftructive books, a3 It will teach you how to box jthout an instructor. i No. 25. HOW TO BECOME A GYMNAST.—Containing full structions for all kinds of gymnastic sports and athletic exercises. mbracing thirty-five illustrations. By Professor W. Macdonald. handy and usef s a : No. 34. HOW TO FENCE.—Containing full instruction . for pneing and the use of the broadsword ; also instruction in archery. escribed with twenty-one practical illustrations, giving the best itions in fencing. A complete book. — No. 51. HOW Ter eae nine ee No. cS W CARDS. i xp ions of the general principles of sleight-of-hand appl ‘able » card tricks; of card tricks with ordinary cards, and not iring och hand; of t inyolving sleight-of-hand, or the use of pecially prepared c: By Professor r. Illustrated. alba he Abate a ag TRICKS WITH CARDS.—Fr ay 5) e latest and most dec ive carc r1CKs yi lustrations. By A. Anderson. on : Re No. 77. HOW TO DO FORTY TRICKS WITH CARDS Containing deceptive Card Tricks as performed by leading conjuro and magicians. Arranged for home amusement. Fully illustrate ; MAGIC. No. 2. HOW TO DO TRICKS.—The. great. ecard tricks, containing full instrueti yond | it of the day, also the most popular m our leading magicians ; every boy shpul as'it will both amuse and instruct. No. 22. HOW TO DO SECONE explained by his former assistant, Miped Hunt, Jr. the secret dialogues were carried on between the magician and tl boy on the stage; also giving all the codes and Signals. The on authentic explanation of second sight, E No, 43. HOW TO BECOME A MAGICIAN.—Containing #1 grandest assortment of magical illusions ever placed before t public. Also tricks- with ecards, incantations, etc. No. 68. HOW TO DO CHEMICAL TRICKS.—Containing ove one hundred highly amusing and instructive tricks with chemica By A. Anderson. Handsomely illustrated. No. 69. HOW TO DO SLEIGHT OF HAND.—Containing ove fifty of the latest and best tricks used by magiciangs,- Also contaiy ing the secret of second sight. Fully illustrated. By A. Anderso; _No. 10, HOW TO MAKE MAGIC TOY S.—Containing f directions for making Magic Toys and devices of many kinds. B A. Anderson. Fully illustrated. — No. 72. HOW TO DO TRICKS WITH NUMBERS.—showin many curious tricks with figures and themacgic of numbers. Bwsed Anderson. Fully ilhistrated. ; . No. 75. HOW TO BECOME A_Cé tricks with Dominos, Dice, Cups and Balli thirty-six illustrations. By A. Anderson. No. 78. HOW TO DO THE BLACK plete description of the mysteries of Mag’ together with. many wonderful experiments. Illustrated. : MECHANICAL. ‘No, 29. HOW: TO BECOME AN INVENTOR.—Every be should know how inyentions originated. This book explains they all, giving examples’in electricity, hydraulics. Magnetism, Opti pReumatics, mechanics, etc. The most instructive book publishet " No. 56. HOW TO BECOME AN ENGINEER.—Containing instructions how to proceed in order to become a locomotive ©” gineer; also directions for building a model locomotive; togethe with a full description of everything an engineer should know- No. 57. HOW TO MAKE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.—Fu directions how to make a-Banjo, Violin, Zither, Molian Harp, Xy! phone and other musical, instruments; together with a brief de scription of nearly every musical instrument used in ancient 9 modern times. Profusely illustrated. By Algernon S. Fitzgerald for twenty years bandmaster of the Royal Bengal Marines. No. 59. HOW TO: MAKE A | Ay on a description of the lantern, toget Also full directions fer its use illustrated. By John Allen. No. 71. HOW TO DO MEC complete instructions for performiTg7t By A. Anderson. Fully illustrated. “ LETTER WRITING. No. 11. HOW TO WRITE LOVE-LETTERS.—A most com 4 <3 little book, coming full directions for ee aye and when to use them, giving specimen letters young a) No, 12. HOW TO WRITE LETTERS TO LADIES.—Giving complete instructions for writing letters to ladies on all subjects: also letters of introduction, notes and requests Teeny _No. 24. HOW TO WRITE LETTERS TO GENTLEMEN. Conteistae, full directions for writing to gentlemen on all subjects so giving sample letters for instruction. 2 No. 53. HOW TO WRITE LETTERS.—A wonderful littl? book, telling you how to write to your sweetheart, your father mother, sister, brother, employer: and, in fact, everybody and any- bog _you wish to write to. Flyvery young man and every youn: lady in the land should have this book. No. 74. HOW TO WRITE LETTERS CORRECTLY.—Con taining full instructions for writing letters on a sO eS \) ) Lhe : explaining how qT Sleig °o fan By A. Anderson alos

Page 3

PLUCK AND LUCK. Complete Stories of Adventure. Issued 50 Bntered as Tovomben Si Basen secre 4 Senta of Congress, Washington, D. C., by Fra No. 313. NEW YORK, ag + agen fie vy ade N. ¥., Post Office, 5 of the Librarian ew York. to the ge 0 2A Cnion JUNE 1, 1904. Price 5 Cents. NICK CHAPTER I. THE HUNTER AND THE MINGO. - hen the war of the Revolution had closed and the inde- lence of the colonies was established the population of the try began to increase with wonderful rapidity. Emigrants 6 on every ship that touched our shores, and towns and sprang up!as'if by miagic. Forests crumbled away that s of waving grain might take their place, and rivers were ned that mills might receive the benefit of their wasted the emigrants came in many families who had been near the coast removed further west and became the ers of the new civilization that was destined to make this the mightiest republic the world had ever seen. us it was that the old settlers began to move over the r into that vast fertile region now known as Ohio. found the soil rich and productive, the forests teeming ne of every description, and the rivers alive with fish. they also found an enemy to dispute with them the on of the land. That enemy was the American Indian, was disposed to dispute every inch of ground with the whose treatment of his people nearer the coast had ee ofa Ts = sherpa Saree lag" coat erletatllehaain jie tree on the right bank of the Muskingum. was bronzed from long exposure to wind and weather, there was a kindly expression about it that was calcu- win confidence when anyone was at all disposed to fidence in man. He was of athletic mold and seemed the very prime of his life—about forty years of age. his knees Iay his rifie, an old flintlock which he had many years, and which he seemed to regard with all all hunters are said to have for their favorite It was a long-barreled piece, and quite heavy, and ieee ei artes Si Sen siren eet it in a manner that did not interfere with the aim: e stock had been broken off against an Indian's head. The n to the water's ame rink, within easy] By AN OLD SCOUT. AND JED, The King Trappers of the Border. | oe }O- (73% range of his rifle, but the hunter eyed him without any ap- parent desire to shed his blood. Then a huge black bear came along within ten paces of where he sat, with the same result. The bear caught sight of him, sniffed the air, as if the smell of the white man was anything but pleasant, and then shambled away through the bushes. The hunter was not hunting that kind of game that day.: He was waiting for another hunter whom he-had agreed to meet at that spot. ~ Hours passed, and still he sat there on the fallen tree gaz- in out over the'river, with a patience that told how well quali- fied he was to follow the life he was leading. The sun passed the meridian and began to go down toward the western ho- rizon. The hunter glanced up at the sun and muttered: “Them redskins is out an’ Nick ain’t hyer. They hev got ‘im, an’ that’s why he ain’t come. He ain’t the man ter go back on his word, cause he’s true grit every time, Nick is. Them Mingoes is worse’n pizen, an’ Nick hates ’em like rat- tlers. Ef they’ve got ‘im they'll roast ‘im as sure as the sun shines. Drat em! They orter be roasted, the blasted yaller curs!” The hunter, having delivered himself of his thoughts, re- lapsed into a profound silence again, and gazed out over the river as if half dreaming of his boyhood days. Suddenly he heard a whizzing sound, followed by a spat close behind him. Turning his head, he saw an arrow sticking in the tree only a few feet behind him. It was buried an inch in the wood and was still quivering from the force of the blow. One glance revealed the situation to the hunter. He had been shot at by an Indian, and the arrow had missed its aim but a few inches. The hunter did not waste any time looking around to see whence the arrow came. He knew that other arrows could come from the same source. To remove himself from the posi- tion of a target, he slid down off the log like a turtle does when disturbed, and crouched behind it as quietly as a mouse. “Thar ain’t many of ‘em,” he muttered, as he crouched be- hind the log, “or more arrows would hev come, an’ a, yellin’ Tike -all possessed. Howsomever, I'll wait an’ see ef thar's 7 ‘ting to see-someone he was looking for. A more on "em. oie ae dee oa axe: Fed. ss —

Page 4

~ NICK From whete he jay he could see the arrow stickifig in the treé, and could see the direction whence it came. “Bah!” he exclaimed, in an undertone, as he looked up at the arrow. “That arrow came Over the river, an’ ther cussed redskin as sent it is er waitin’ ter send another. I'll make ’im so sick he won’t keep his ¢olor—he’ll fade away ter: ther AND JED. CHAPTER IL THE RESCUE FROM THE STAKE. When the savage fell to thé earth; the hunter stood on the "happy huntin’-ground, whar tho palefaces Will éver troublé! opposite bank of the river and gazed silently across the water. him ergin.” The hunter took his coonskin.¢ap and placed it on the muz- “ale Of his rifle. Then he slowiy: faised it above the log, as it] lay motionless in death. | he was raising his head cautiously, to take a peep around for - his enemy. "Whiz! came another arrow, and went clear through thé cap: “ Instantly the cap went ddWn and two hands were raised above the log clutching wildly at space, as if in a death agony, _and then fell back again. . The next moment a yell of triumph came from a Sattaity redskin on the other side of the river. Jed Hotchkiss chuckled at the success of his trick, and _ muttered: “That dratted son of a wolf will come over for my scalp an’ Ys won't git it. I’m waitin’ for ‘im.” P Ten minutes later he heard sounds that he was waiting for at —-sounds that indicated one swimming in the water. { e Springing to his feet, he beheld a Mingo warrior two-thirds © the way over in the water, swimming boldly toward him. cof The -redskin was almost paralyzed with amazement on sai his intended victim alive, with rifle in hand, waiting him, ; “Ugh!” grunted the Mingo, coming to a sudden halt, “pale- e heap ‘live!” 7 “Yes,” said Hotchkiss, in a very quiet tone of voice, “I aire half as dead as you are. Yer can’t git no scalps hyer,” Bane he leveled his rifle at the Mingo’s head. = The redskin was at a disadvantage in the water. “His only ' hope was in diving repeatedly, and thus disconcért the aim of . sap hunter. So he forth a wild whoop that rang out far _and wide over ‘the marae and forest, and then dived ‘under the water. ‘ % “Ha, ha, ha!” laughed the hunter, “that’s to warn ther * others, but he can’t savé his bacon that way. Injuns can’t “live under water like mudeats. They ain't that kind of fish. ‘They hev got ter breathe an’—thar he comes ‘up for his wind— ll make ‘im go down agin just*for tun! Ha, ha, ha, red- _ Mpskin: Any fish down basa Bring me up a trout, an’ I'll let you off——” > _ 2 oe oh ara Seah) << eee eae the redman, aking another dive ts avoid ‘ Sy the expected bullet from the hunter’s rifle. 4 3 eo. Hotehkiss kept his rifle aimed at the Indian’s head whenever Hike 1 appeared above the surface of the water, which kept him |“ Seonstantly diving for several. minutes. mA ois |At last the desperate savage turned and began a series of ae dives toward the other shore, hoping to get into the woods, pe *-and thus make his escape from his wily foe. But Hotchkiss rte memiaigca te saneke Pa es a hack, redekin,” he called, “or yer’ll wt some lead ter eat for yer supper.” Ugh? me go away,” granted the savage, diving again. - “Ye're pretty good at di fies the ace “but. yer can ty m4 Ae Re RE a Mee 5 OSS eet he Rk ’,” said Hotchkiss, as he kept} fight for it, and when I fight somebody will get h can’t come that ‘ere game on} biess my everlasting eyes! they have got a white Perrot: I'll be thar teriamake, xr of them ‘ere canoes.” ; S river and | canoes and drag a white man from it, who was bound hand . whip-like and foot. Catching sight of ‘the: ea 8 se he almost eenet ad joa iar andfetl. prove, to. the Now they are ! “un. alt aoe Re oe Aik eke lh sett as if to see whether or not his shot had done its work. One, two, thréé minutes passed, and the form of the savage “I reckon the blasted redskin has shot his last arrow.” muttered the hunter, going back to the log on which he wa Sitting when the Indian sent thé arrow whizzing past head. other hour passed, during which nothing more occu to disturb his meditations. The birds twittered Above head, and wild game came to the river to quench weir thi but of these he took no notice. As the time passed, he gave frequent anxious glances declining sun. The slanting shadows df the tall sycami begam to reach the opposite bank of.the river, a fact w became patent to the hunter, and aroused him to action. if moved to a sudden impulse, he clenched his brawny and brought it down upon his knee with a force that w have felled an ox. “Blast their red picters,” he said,“they’ve got him! ain’t the man ter go back on his word. He said he meet me yer, and here I am, and here | will stay till th sun goes down, and then if he don’t turn up I'll know the skins hev got him.” Having delivered himself thus, Ke settled back on with a dogged determination to wait until the stn went Another hour passed, and while the sun was yet an high he saw a band of Mingo warriors coming down the in their birch canoes. From where he was -sitting hé knew he could be seen; hence he-made a spring*for a of bushes, near the water’s edge, into which he threw b on his face. From here he could view the savages w fear of being scen: There were seven canoes, in each of were five warriors, one of whom, in the canoe nearest posite bank, caught sight of the dead Indian lying wh had fallen, near the water’s edge. A whoop brought the others to a round turn, and ¢ canoes pulled for the shore, while the savages disem and gathered around the dead body. From where he lay the hunter could plainly see all transpired. He saw them examine the wound that kill and then followed a close inspection of his arrows, bow, scalping-knife and tomahawk. From the fact ‘that he was slain by a bullet, they in knew that a white man had fired it. Jed Hotchkiss was too well versed in the ch the red man not to understand the meaning of of yells that followed the wild. paras inspection dead comrade’s effects. Yell followed yell tll the echoes were awakened wide. Be “That means they want somebody's scalp,” mutter his placé of conceglment, “but ef they git mine they’v: He saw a half. dozen warriors run down to one of the ie his feet in ami “Good Lord!” he oe rig Ni—tere = him! i

Page 5

NICK AN! D JED. if they build a fire around Nick Nelson I'll spill ee Indian | I'l} starless night. blood on it to put it out. Thar! he’s looking over here! tell him I’m waitin’,”’ and with that he gave the bush a vigor- ous shake as a signal to his friend that he was near at hand.| be seen in that intense dark The distance was too great for Hotchkiss to perceive what|savages gathered around the That the signal had| hoarse, whilst the two fugiti¥ effect his signal had on the prisoner. been seen and understood by Nelson, Hotchkiss was fully con- vineed. He was also convinced that the savages intended to| miles. camp for the night where they were, as their preparations to} selves within a hundred y ¥ “Nick!” ! so were plainly understood by the hunter. s the sun went down the light of a big campfire illumined } forests and the placid bosom of the river. That’s good,” chuckled Hotchkiss. tin’ round for ‘em. As soon as it is dark I'll go over thar to have me keep company with him and be one of a big st, but we'll see—we’ll see.” s.the night advanced, dark clouds obscured the sky and 8 opportunity, Hotchkiss made his way down the stream a ance of a quarter of a mile. Holding his powder-horn apd rifle above his head, he en- ed the river and waded cautiously out as far as the depth uld permit. Then, by a few bold strokes, he swam silently ss to the other side, where he landed, without having wet- a grain of his powder. ' aiting long enough for the water to cease dripping from garthents, he began creeping cautiously toward the camp- glimpses of which guided him in the right direction. eeping on hands and knees, he got year enough the camp- to take in the situation. the Mingees were excited to a pitch of savage frenzy over dead warrior, and were holding a council to determine the Pot the prisoner in their hands. That he was not the slayer y well knew, but, being a white man, they thirsted for his bd, and the bl of any paleface, however innocent. he ht be, would go far in the gratification of their thirst for Pance, ying flat on the dices dn a clump of bushes, Jed Hotch- “heard the Mingoes decide on the fate of Nick Nelson. ey decided to burn him. ‘soon as. ‘the decision wads rendered, the warriors made hes at the campfire with which to search fagots from the ds. They bound him to a sapling, and began piling fagots ind him, but so slow were they in gathering a sufficient ix 5 teat the ‘entire band, with the exception of one, pro- to scour the woods for all the dry fagots necessary for t b'ars!” exclaimed Jed Hotchkiss, as he saw only one ; tig by the side of the. ‘prisoner. “Now is my g to his feet, he dashed forward with the un ed of the resence of danger. — ‘Pay e time the sa discovered his presence, Hotchkiss heavy barrel of his rifle raised above his head. The e Biya yell was silenced by the descent of the gun- 7 on his unprotected skull. He dropped like a log, and gave up the ghost without a groan. Then, drawing his knife, te et ke eekeal ean teers ore Sunes ty aa 2 | ut the next of the savaged, rot s full of red the situation. A the ech feoe we. we a “iy Saal nedoe © Tas a flash they were out of si ense darkness of a To follow them was worse s, as no trail could eir baffled rage the d yelled themselves Pir way up the river ad gone a couple of mis they found them- without meeting each othe Then when they ex “Jed!” and the two ff point where they could cro pir way together to a nd thus get out of the “T won’t have to go| way of the Mingoes during theg On the other side of the river they sought shelter under an see what they’re goin’ to do with him. Mebbe they’d| immense sycamore tree from the storm that was brewing. “This rain will wipe out our trail, Jed,” said Nick Nelson, as the big drops of rain came pattering down on the leaves. “Yes; an’ I ain’t sorry for it,” replied Jed, covering the out the light of the stars. Taking advantage of the favor-| Powder in the pan of his rifle. CHAPTER Ill. THE MAIDEN’S ESCAPE—-HUNTERS AT BAY. By and by the rain came down in torrents, and our two heroes stood like statues under the big sycamore. They well knew that in the rain and darkness the Indians would make no attempt to follow them, and they also knew that the rain would obliterate their trail so utterly that the best trailer among them could never find it. / “How did they catch you, Nick?” Jed Hotchkiss asked, as they stood there under the tree. *“Run me down,” was the reply. me.” “Did you knock any of ‘em over?” “Yes; I reckon they ain’t so many by five.” “Good! Them pesky varmints is more nor pizen. Hf they git ter Willard’s Settlement afore we do, thar’ll be awful mean work done thar.” “Yes; we orter been thar ter-night,” said Nick, “but we hey done our best. The Willard folks are hard fighters.” “So they are. Ef we get thar afore ther reds do we'll make it awful hot for ’em.” “We must start at daylight in ther mornin’.” “Yes. Then they relapsed into a conversation in which the reader ean have no interest. They had agreed to meet there on the banks of the Muskingum that morning, in ordér to go to the assistance of a smal! band of settlers down the river at a place called Willard’s Settlement. The Indians had plotted to at- “They war too many for det) and reached the side of Nick Nelson ere the} tack the place and destroy the men, and carry off the women and children. ps Jed Hotchkiss had become possessed of the secret, and had resolved to go to their assistance In company with Nick Nel- son, another pioneer of that section. Jed had arrived at rendezyous—as the reader has seen—and — spent the day waiting for his friend. But Nick had been cap- tured, as we have seen, and was a prisoner when he arrived in the vicinity of the appointed place of meeting. ; with} They took turns at sleeping, and thus, through the night. yell; managed to get sleep enough. When ‘morning came they partook of a piece of venison which Hotchkiss had in big. pee ‘session, and then began their march. — The stars had not all faded away when they started. They anxious to reach the settlement that evening, and Savane ebaamunsd eet te Ae

Page 6

Nick Nelson hai and had no-chance There was, therefo kiss gave him the thus enabled him weapons when he was captured, again when he made his escape. ifle between them. But Hotch- tols he wore in his belt, and hing with which to defend ik by the Indians. eached a spring where both it of stopping when in the the possession of a party iting their noonday meal. al fe bushes out of all danger of being seen, ead DI ake their way round the spring, and thus get awe thout being seen. “If they see our trail,” whispered Nick, “they'll run us all day.” “Yes, but they ain’t going our way this time,” said Jed. “No;” and the two trudged along through the forest, keep- ing well into the bushes, so as to leave as little trail as possi- ble. An hour later they heard yells in the direction of the spring, and halted to listen. The distance was nearly two miles, yet they could dis- tinctly hear the chorus of yells that came from many throats. “By gum!” exclaimed Jed, “thar’s trouble back thar, sure.” “Well, we don’t hear no shots, so thar ain’t no whites in it,” was Nick’s reply. “Let ’em fight among themselves as much as they want to. I'd like ter hold their hosses till they Was all scalped, drat ’em!” : “So would I, Nick. Hark! They are coming this way!” Both men were alive to every danger that beset them, and when they heard the yells of the reds grow more and more distinct, they began to prepare for a desperate defense. Touder and louder came the yells, and above the din came the sound of a horse’s hoofs. - Hotchkiss and Nelson shrank back into the bushes and waited for the onset, for they fully believed their trail had been discovered. But they were mistaken. A horse dashed by, and a young white girl on his bare back was urging him forward at the top of his speed. Her hair . streamed in the wind straight from her head, at the risk of eatching some envious limb, and her, eyes stared as if she was fleeing from grim death itself. f Just as she flew past the clump of bushes in which the two hunters were concealed, a shower of arrows whizzed past her , head. Some of them pierced her clothing and went through '. her streaming tresses. But she looked neither to the right nor left, keeping straight on in the headlong flight. In an- other moment she was out of sight, _» | “Nick,” said Jed, “we'll fight ’em and zive her a chance.” : “Yes, fight ther whole tribe!” responded Nick, drawing the two old fiintlock pistols, and making ready to engage in a death struggle with the red fiends. psy On came the Mingoes, yelling like so many demons, shoot- on ing arrows at every step at the flying maiden. When they came near the clump of bushes the two hunters gave them “6 : gh Three reds tumbled over in the grass, and the ‘+ “others halted in dumfounded amazement. Another moment, = ioe and they sprang for cover, fearing an ambuscade * “quick!” whispered Jed to Nelson, as he proceeded to rifle. Nick was as quick as he was, and in a little Ceaomah all threé weapons were ready for another whites and reds wer vicinity. came a shower of arrows into NICK AND JED. The savages were wild over the affair, and made the welkin ring with their yells. But Jed and Nick reloaded their weap- ous and resolved to hold them in check till the young girl could get away from her relentless pursuers. Crack! crack! crack! went the rifie and two-pistols again, and by that time the Indians had become convinced that only three white men Were in the bushes. They made a rush for the spot, over a score of them, and then the two hunters broke and cut for the woods. The reds saw only two men run out. They thought £ other had been killed, and made a rush to get his scalp. n momentary diversion enabled the two hunters to get a g@ start. : “Cut for it, Nick!” cried Jed, as he made tremenddm strides through the woods. : “If we separate we'll meet at Willard’s, at full speed. “Keep together! We may hev ter fight agin!” crlez Seeing the two men flying before them, the savages gg up all idea of catching the young girl, who had Made escape from them, and resolved on the capture of the hun They made the welkin ring with ‘their yells, and the pu grew hot and swift. ; After running about five miles, the two hunters ente a swamp and pressed forward to the deepest recesses of iff) i. “Now we can have a show, Nick,” said Jed. “Ef they low us in hyer, we kin take ’em one by one.” “But they won’t do that, Jed,” Nick replied, wiping his b 0 4 “They'll try to starve us out.” - Thinking they now had the two hunters at bay, the Min surrounded the swamp and sent warriors in to run them @ Two warriors came suddenly on them and were shot di ere they could make any resistance. mark. possessed hing ” said Nick, prepared for a desperate fight. Two more warriors were shot down a few moments la and then the Mingoes were convinced that it would be che to starve them out than to capture them by storm. So tig withdrew from the swamp and planted sentinels all it. to prevent their escape. Runners were sent out to” gem more warriors, and thus make sure the capture of the + palefaces. 1 ‘In the meantime Jed and Nick waited patiently for nij to come on and give them its protection. When night came they began to make their way to™ edge of the swamp. Sentinels were posted all around it, bright fires blazed at points of fifty paces, so that a comp circle of light enveloped them. They saw how comple hemmed in they were, and began to grow desperate. stared them in the face. “We must break through ‘em and cut for the dar the woods, Nick,” said Jed, after making a close ins of the circle of sentinels. It was agreed on, and soon aftér they crept forward, down the two sentinels and dashed forward. But the next moment they were both seized by half a of warriors and borne to the earth. d CHAPTER IV. NICK AND JED ESCAPE FROM THE STAEE. The struggle was short. In the end the two hunters were made prisoners. Not a redskin made any attempt to injure them, as they had made up their minds to take them alive to burn at the stake. ‘The moment they found that they had succeeded in making Dagar Sign eg. sit tag alas me

Page 7

wm . cried. Jed, determined to not let them do all the crowing. “We’ve knocked over four of yer yaller skunks in ther swamp thar.” “Yes,” said Nick, “it takes a dozen redskins ter catch one white man. The Mingoes are all skunks. They can’t fight.” “Ugh! Paleface talk brave now,” said one of the reds inj favor of burning them at theta 5 th pretty good English. “The fire will make him cry like papoose.” “The Mingoes don’t know how to burn a white man. He is ‘@ coward, and is afraid to go near enough to the fagots to make ’em burn.” . _ “Wait till the fire burns,” said the savage, with a shake of his head, as the two prisoners were being bound. “Oh, yes—we kin wait. We ain’t afraid of all ther Injuns in’ ther world. Bring on yer fire an’ see how a white man loves ther heat. Pshaw! Redskins don’t know nothing.” “Paleface heap big liar,” said the savage, smarting under "“thetaunts of the two hunters. Nick was convenient to resent the insults, and so he raised his foot and gave him a kick in the stomach that shut him up ‘like a jack-knife and sent him rolling in ‘the dust. The other warriors laughed at their comrade’s mishap, which so enraged him that he rose to his feet and drew his “tomahawk and rushed at him, as if he intended to kill him on “eegiad made - the spot. _ But Nick had no notion of being cut down like a dog. He ‘sprang several feet upwards and planted both feet in the red- skin’s stomach. Down he went, with all the breath kicked out of him, and he lay like one who had been struck by a thunder- .bolt. He was the sickest Indian ever seen, and the other war- riors only laughed at him for his pains. ' ‘Phen the chief ordered the warriors to march the prisoners the spring, from which place the young white maiden her escape from them. they reached the spring they found that two more white women were there as prisoners. When the women dis- girl had succeeded in making her contain themselves for joy. They be- cause the white settlers to come to their te hérrified when they were told that the two _ white men who had just been brought in were to be burnt at _ the stake that night. two hunters had killed a dozen The they must die. NICK AND JED. " [out of They readily sur- po had aided him to interest in him. decide on the fate of usually unanimous in fen and there. ere made at once, and h fear. Nick and Jed ey were not the men to two hunters to get a good look mised that Jed was the daring” escape, and therefore took a eré An hour later a council wage the two prisoners. The coundiily Preparations for the dreads the captive women became knew just what was comin show any signs of fear, of iy favor of the redskins. “It looks bad for us, Jed/#@@ifarked Nick, as he saw one of the reds mixing the Black paint which they always put on the faces of those that were to be burnt at the stake. “Yes; so it does, Nick,” answered Jed; “but then we kin stand it, I reckon.” “Oh, yes; but I don’t like ter. It’s agin natur’, yer know.” “Yes, I know; but these hyer redskins don’t know nothin’ about natur’, the onery cusses! I’d just like ter git loose from this hyer cussed stake one minit. I'd show ‘em a better way ter die, so quick it ‘ud make ther héads swim.” ' “So would I, Jed; but we can’t git loose, I reckon. This is aboui the tightest place I ever was in, an’ I reckon it’s the end of us.” ) “I ain’t dead yit,” said Jed, with a low, savage earnestness that showed he still cherished a determination to make one more effort for life and liberty. Nick saw him straining at the thongs that bound his hands to the sapling behind him. The example was not lost on him, He made the same effort, and discovered that he could almost pull his right hand through. With the loss of some skin, he Was sure he could free it, and instantly resolved to do so as soon as a good chance offered. His feet were also bound-—a fact that gave him no little uneasiness; for he could not stoop to untie his feet without attracting the attention of the reds, who were now so busy in their preparations for the burning that they took no notice of the prisoners at the stakes, He resolved to free his hands and still hold them in the position they were when tied, in order to deceive the reds, This he did, skinning his hands badly in doing so. ‘ “Courage, Jed!” he whispered. “My hands are free.” “Git away, then,” replied Jed. “Don’t wait for me. them at Willard’s. I can’t git loose.” -One of the savages approached Nick to daub. his face with the hideous black paint he had mixed of pine-soot and wet clay. He wore his tomahawk and scalping-knife in his belt. Nick’s eyes fastened on them, and,-when he put the first daub of paint on the prisoners’ face, the savage felt his tomahawk and knife slip out of his belt. The next moment his throat was cut from ear to ear, and he sank down to earth at the feet of his intended victim. Quick as a flash Nick stooped and cut the thongs that bound his feet, and in a moment they were free as his hands, “Now cut for it, Nick!” whispered Jed. “Don’t stop for me,” - ‘Nick Nelson was not the man to do such a thing. He Save _ An Indian saw him and gave the alarm. Instantly a chorus of yells awoke all the echoes of the forest and river, and the entire band rushed forward. “Cut for it, Jed!” cried Nick, darting away into the forest. | Jed sprang away in another direction, thus dividing the pursuit, if any were to be made, and in a moment both were — sight. ; =

Page 8

plunged as if in a _ to the hunter that over the river with lard’s Settlement, and No sooner had the _ to put it into executio “back was the work dashed toward the rive riors, several of whom “Come on, yer coppe ght, and the thought occurred capture a fleet horse and get nld make quicker time to Wil- m of the impending danger. ed to him than he proceeded cone loose and spring on his moment. Then away he through a dozen dusky war- polling in the dust. 3!” cried Nick, now as- sured that he could escape er be roasted! Whoop!” - With appalling yells th ages dashed after him. The river bank was but a féw paces distant, and in a mo- ment or two the hunter and the horse were in the water, swimming for the other side. . A shower of arrows whizzed about him, but in the excite- ment of the moment they fiew wide of the mark and left him untouched. The chief of the band gave a wild whoop, and sprang upon another horse, which hé urged forward into the water. The faithful animal responded to the orders of the fiery chief and went in quick pursuit of the other one. Under the clear star- , light the retreating figures could be seen halfway across the stream. Nick Nelson looked back and saw that a solitary horseman was following him. oa “D’ll git that horse for Jed,’ he muttered to himself, turn- ing right about and facing the savage. They met in midstream. - _ - “Ugh!” grunted the chief. “Paleface come back!” “Yes; L want yer scalp,” replied Nick, holding the scalping- knife in his right hand, which was bleeding from the skinning he received when he drew it through the thong at the stake, “Ugh! me take scalp and burn paleface at stake,” retorted ' the chief, as he seized hold of the horse's mane and aimed a blow at him with his tomahawk. : _ Nick threw up his Jeft hand and caught the chief by the wrist.and tried to get at him with the scalping-knife. The squirmed so as to escape with a slight wound on f ? tear ’ » gave a yell that caused a dozen other Indians to ‘into the : 5 « a5 ezit i ate He ke +, NICK AND JED. the morning by a strong party. So he did not wait to get the benefit of the daylight, but pushed on as fast as he could under the circumstances. | Just before daylight he heard moans in the bushes on his right, as if from one in pain or distress. “Hello!” he exclaimed. “Someun’s hurt about hyer!” He crept cautiously forward, and found a young white girl lying on the ground groaning piteously. “What's the matter?” he’ asked. ” “Oh, for heaven’s sake, save me!” cried the girl. *“T am half killed, and——” “Why, how did yer come hyer?” Jed asked, stepping for- ward on hearing her voice. “I was making my escape from the Indians, who had «cap- tured our family, when the horse I was riding ran under a limb with me. I was swept off and fell to the ground, but don’t know how long ago it was. Oh, I wish I could die!” =~ “Don’t say that, miss,” said Jed, “for I will do all I kia ter git yer outen hyer. Kin you walk?” “I don’t know,” and she made an attempt to rise. Jed aided her, and found that she was really very weak and ill from the effects of the fall. “Yer ain't very heavy,” he said, as he lifted her in his arms. “I kin carry yer all day,” and he started off with her. “Oh, you can’t escape yourself if you try to carry me,” she said, as she laid her head on his shoulder. “Don’t worry about me, dear,” said he. “Jed Hotchkiss ‘won't never leave a gal behind for’the reds ter kill. That's me.” She seemed to think him equal to anything, as she resigned herself to his care without another word. 2 About a mile further on he came to a small brook. “Water! Give me water,” said the maiden, as she cough sight of the stream. “Yes; as much as yer want,” and he laid her on the carpet of leaves and brought her some of the water in an improvised leaf cup. She drank it, and felt greatly revived. In a few minutes .. she was able to walk, and insisted on being allowed to do so. Just as they started they were startled at hearing the snort- »_ ing of a horse. The hunter had not a weapon of any kind with which to defend himself in case of attack, “Oh, heaven, save us!” the trembling girl prayed. — Jed looked around in search of a stone, or anything else with which to make a defense. In doing so he caught sight . of the horse. A second glance showed him that the horse was riderless. The girl also saw him and cried out: “Oh, that’s the horse I was riding yesterday!” “Then it’s good luck,” said Jed. “We must cateh ‘im.” »«)_ _ The horse made no attempt to get away from them, and : a few minutes the girl was on his back again. oH P Paes ‘ eal oe 5 _ THE UNEQUAL STRUGGLE—TWO TO ONE. y

Page 9

NICK much frightened to know what it meant. Oh, I am so glad you and your friend got away from them!” “Yes, so am I,” he said; “but we din’t safe till we git ter Willard’s Settlement.” “Why, that’s where we were all going!” she edciainiea. *An’ that’s whar Nick an’ me was goin’,” he said; “an’ we'll git thar afore night ef we don’t meet no more redskins.” “Oh, I hope we won't micet any, as you have no weapons,” and the young girl was never more sincere in her life in any The girl screamed. But the hunter stood as still as a statue, as if he did not intend to make any resistance at all. The savages halted, and one said: “Ugh! Paleface heap coward—no fight.” “No, I don’t fight; I am the red: man’s friend,” was the quiet: reply. . “Paleface big liar.” , as “My red brother has a crooked tongue. He can sée that I have no arms.” - One of the warriors took charge of the horse and the other * one caught Jed by the arm. my God!” she exclaimed, not thderetanding Jed’s “why can’t I die and be at rest?” Just then she heard a dull crash, and looking toward Jed, saw that he had snatched the Mingo’s tomahawk and buried AP ee 5 it in his skull. The red man sank to the earth, quivering in| _ the agonies of death. _¢ The pooping hea made the discovery at the same time, and : ‘The ‘a né sereain. But Jed came ve mortient, and to him lie gave his time. aos h was @ brave fighter, and did not give way att as nee he’ was no tmatch for the hunter. Rt Oe went, thé red réceiving terrible cits °F , till he was covered with blood from head “Yor ain't sig on a fight, tedskin,” said Jea, 5 he gave cut. a “Paleface heap talk,” was the reply, he: the svagh iinet ‘an- iat other: pame st 2m. oy tr “Hat ha! ba!—yes. ys talk cuts Injun alt up!” 2) ay Me take scalp!” sat : bs Te IO ea Seite nis and a alka the muscles of made a sudden es ne AND JED. house. md-to-hand struggle. was the equal of any two Indians t With them he never But he missed his rifle and feared a score of redskins. Just as night was coming og house at Willard’s Settlemen ere any prowling redskin c “Thank God, we are sav saw several men, armed “Why, Jed Hotchkiss!” to shake hands with the a party to go in search “Nick is hyer then?” “Yes—reached here “Glad on it. Hyer's@ © got away from ther Injuns,” and he assisted her to the Ind as he spoke. Several women came forward and welcomed the young girl. Old Ben Willard took her by the hand and lboked at her. She was so pale and haggard-looking that he could scarcely recognize her. “Good heavens!” he exclaimed, when he did make out her identity, “is this Nora Munroe?”. “Yes,” she faintly replied. “Where is your father?” “Dedd!”’ she gasped. “And your mother?” “She and aunt are captives.” The old pioneer turned pate for a minute or two, ahd hastily brushed a tear from his bronzed cheek. “He shall be avenged!” he said, in low tones, and all who heard him knew that he was not speaking without a purpose. Nora was led into the nearest cabin by one of the women, P in sight of the block- ade a rush to get there him any trouble. i the young girl, as she h, coming to meet them. B of the men, running up Nick Nelson is getting up the hunter otk a furious Unee would, and a terrible |aiid given food and drink. She was half famished and re- vived greatly after satisfying her hunger. “Jed—Jed!” cried Nick Nelsofi, rushing forward and grasp- The savage was his game for the| ing his hand, “we meet agin!” “Yes, an’ unhurt. I found they gal we saw runnin’ from ther reds, an’ fetched her through, Nick,” and the two heroes writing each other’s hands, whilst tears stood in the eyes of those standing around them. Suddenly Jed turned to old Ben Willard and said: “Yer must all sleep in ther blockhouse to-night. The reds aré on my trail, an’ ‘Il be hyer soon. They ain’t far behind.” “To the blockhouse! "cried the old pioneer, and in ten min-" utes every’ woman and child was safely within the strong structure, where all the provisions of the settl were. The men then devoted themselves to the task of moving ail | the household effects from the various cabins to the block- By the time that was done, a young man caught sight - of a solitary Indian in the edge of the timber. The savage made no attempt to conceal himself, but continued to advance toward the whites. — he, » Ben Willard asked bin: e ; “Why does the red man come to his white brother now?” Me Fearon he would eat salt wath 44 and smoke the pipie of peace,” was the reply. Old Ben glared at him suspiciously, and said: é “Your people are making war on the whites. The red | man’s tongue is crooked. We will not eat salt with him.” : “The white man is not wise. The red man wants to bury iis | the hatchet, and live at peace with him. I have spoken.” came up and recognized the Indian. as one of the party who was trying to burn him and Nick at acho sree 7830) 1 plea orhenn steiner _ Just then Jed Hotchkiss: it me last night, 3 yer ‘cantankerous skunk!” Bavage, ogo tere able tes 7 J. on “an” now: yer ane = ‘smoke iu” and with —

Page 10

that he dealt him a ween the eyes that laid him out » at full length on th Cc VII. THE SIEG KHOUSE. length on the ground, e timber beyond the They fell all around ight flesh-wound. Hard, and the party As the Mingo warrior a chorus of savage yells, ' prairie, followed by a showe the whites, one of whom re “Now for the blockhouse,” made a rush back within the Just as the last one passed within, hawthar shower ‘of ar- rows came, every one of which found a lodgment in the logs of the blockhouse. | ' “Now give them some lead!” said old Ben; “but. don’t fire till you see your man.” The savages kept well within the shadow of the timber, evidently waiting for the shadow of darkness to protect them. The stars were already beginning to appear, and the know- ing ones in the blockhouse knew they were on the verge of a toreftte night siege. -*Go down and bring up pails of water,” said old Ben Wil- lard, “for they will shoot burning arrows on the roof.” _. Several seized pails and descended to the well beneath the Ate blockhouse, where they filled them with water. As not a shot _ had yet been fired by the whites, the savages became bolder and began to make cautious approaches. Suddenly a sheet of fire flashed from the portholes of the blockhouse, and five of the red demons bit the dust. A chorus of yells followed, and the entire band made a rush with the insane intent of carrying the place by storm. ‘The sentinels fired fast and with deadly aim, and in less time than is taken to record it, a dozen red men were down. _ It was too much for even the stoical Mingoes, and they re- treated again to the timber. “Phat was good work, boys,” eaid old Ben. “They won't try ; ‘that ruse ‘again to-night. We'll have the fire-arrows next. i SEES Pip £0 Sp kod emir the pails on the roof before "they come.” “A dozen pails of water were dashed over the roof ere a ‘single burning arrow came to reveal the presence of the water- * amchgh A tew minutes after the last pail had been emptied, _ @ ball of fire somewhat like a rocket ascended from the tim- . ber, leaving a stream of sparks in its wake, and descended on the blockhouse. 10 came, until nearly a dozen burning n: f, the“boards of which, being|— x NICK AND JED. fevabaiae | “and right ‘here I’ll give you a b garrison into surrender. They built a large fire in the edge of the timber, but beyond the range of the rifles. Then they began marching around it in a circle, so that-one-half of their number was hidden in the woods, whilst the other was ex- posed to view. By thig means they expected that, when they had marched ten times around the fire, each warrior would ‘have been counted ten times by the trembling palefaces in the block- house. Of course the old pioneers saw through the trick, and merely laughed at it. They had seen it played too often to be deceived by it. “They take us for greenhorns,” chuckled old Ben Willard, “but will soon find out their mistake.” “How many are there?” Nick Nelson asked. “Tt don’t know,” was the reply, “as we can’t tell how many times they’ve marched round the fire. It is not a very large band, though, or thty would not have resorted to that trick to make us believe they had a thousand warriors.” “Let Nick and me go out and see how many there are,” suggested Jed Hotchkiss. “Can you do it, Jed?” old Ben asked, in a whisper. “Sartin,” was the emphatic reply. “Then go ahead.” Nick and Jed cautiously descended to the ground firiéx of the blockhouse, whence they passed out through the narrow open- ing in the rear. As all the savages had gathered around the fire in the edge of the timber, the two daring hunters made their way to the forest without being seen. Then together they crept cau- tiously around to the north side, where, by the aid of the light of the fire, they managed to count the strength of the enemy, which proved to be about fifty strong. There were about a dozen others helpless from wourds. Pe aiid They were now holding a council, at which it was resolved, ~~ to demand a surrender of the blockhouse, thinking they had impressed the whites by their overwhelming show of strength. Nick and Jed chuckled in their sleeves at the shallowness of the and hastened back to inform the garrison of the exact strength of the redskins. _ A little after daylight a warrior appeared and demanded a talk with the palefaces. Nick and Jed went out to talk with him. “What do you want, redskin?” Jed asked, as he approached him. “The red man wants the palefaces to go away,” replied the warrior, “The Mingo warriors will not harm them if they give ap the blockhouse and take their women and children away with them. eer ee teeny A SBy, envey Ot che forest.” ““Look baie: redakin,” said Nick; “there lie a dozen of you warriors dead on the ground, and as many more lie wounatde there by your fire, while none of our people are hurt. We have a well of water under our blockhouse, and meat enough to last a year, by which time we can kill every redskin in the world, if they come fooling around us. You haven't got but fifty warriors, OG Ware ae, re Se RENAE than a papoose.” : saitte maletace’s tongue is crooked,” said the Mingo, some- tee oe ee , reds, replied the hunter; — it of advice, which you will do etek above The Great Spirit moves the world, and all the in it are His Children. The whites have as much right — as the red man, and we have come here to stay. ; 8 ah ihe i i Ee He “You know I speak the t

Page 11

NICK AND JED. leaves of the forest, or as the raindrops when the storm sweeps over the land, and wipe him from the face of the earth. We have done you no harm. Why, then, should you seek to drive| us away?” The savage made no reply, but turned on his heel and walked moodily back to his companions, whilst Nick and Jed returned to the blockhouse to report the result of the inter- view. ; -Day came on apace and the Mingoes kept well within the timber out of the range of the rifles, Not an arrow did they fire during all the forenoon, but later in the day they made the welkin ring with their shouts. “They have received reinforcements,” remarked old Ben, who was never at a loss to understand the meaning of their yells; “but it makes no difference how many they have. Without cannon they cannot batter down these logs.” The savages had received an addition of over a hundred *\._warriors, and were consequently jubilant. They marched boldty out into the clearing to make a display of their strength. “Shake a white rag at them,” said Ben, “and let them think we are ready to surrender. When they rush forward we can lay out a score of them, which will make them sick enough to let us alone.” ; One of the pioneers ran his arm through a porthole and waved a white cloth. A yell of triumph went up from a hun- _ dred and fifty savage throats, and a rush was made for the __ blockhouse, ~ -*Now let ’em have it, boys!” cried the old pioneer, and a -- geore of death-dealing rifles sent as many leaden messengers into their ranks. ‘Never were savages so utterly astonished. They halted and stood rooted to the spot as though utterly unable to compre- ‘hend what had happened. - \~Give them another one!” cried old Ben. | * "They ‘heard his voice, and realized that surrender was very _far from the thoughts of the old pioneer. They gave another yell, sent a shower of arrows at the blockhouse, and then : rushed forward with their tomahawks, with the savage deter- ie mtuation to ctiop their way tn ‘yf ‘Tn another minute more than a hundred tomahawks were ‘hacking away at the logs, whilst savage yells sounded as though pandemonium had broken loose. But above the din, the cracks of rifie and pistol were heard, and’at every shot an | ‘Indian went down in death. For in that surging mass a blind ae man could not have missed his aim. Be quick phen ag Shira Ben; “the Jonger they. stay, the better for ee a x MThey followed his command to the letter. An old hunter} fire his rifle fast. Hence, in ten minutes as “dae fired. By that time the chief ae ot ke os ae Ea the roof of the blockhouse fairly ing out to their cabins once ¥ The men gathered up the we stored them in the blockhousé When the sun went down ti of the battle were the arrow house until it looked as the logs. The settlers conclude mind the Indians of their That night the men, wo fear of being disturbed Dj But the young men, roe, had resolved to go Nora was almost heart All the relatives she hag the hands of the Indiafigy “Never mind, dear,” another beaver till I “Oh, Mr. Hotchkiss!™ see her again. You b you.” bi “I am not so sure 6 it, ehild,” said Jed, shaking his head. “They are mighty d s to fool with.” “But you go through all sorts of dangers without getting hurt,” she said. “But I may git scalped, or be roasted at ther stake yit.” “Never! Such a brave man will never be slain by such wretches. I feel it deep down in my soul.” “Bf I thought that I’d never let’ up on ther pesky varmints,” replied the hunter. “But when they come too thick I hev ter cut for it.” “And that’s right, Jed,” put in old Ben Willard. take any chances against common sense.” “That’s good sense,” said Nick Nelson. “An’ it’s my rule,” added Jed, The next morning ten young men accompanied Jed and Nick Nelson in search of the party that had Mrs. Munroe and her sister in charge. The two hunters now had good rifles in Place of those that had been lost, and they felt happy once more. . The party made straight for one of the Mingo villages, about one hundred miles west of Willard’s Settlement. Nick had been there, and knew where it was, He was quite sure the captives had been carried there. The first day they were out they met ten Mingo braves, who were out in quest of game. The savages were amazed at seeing such a number of well-armed whites out together. “Hello, redskins!” cried Jed, as he came upon them. “How is the game ‘ter-day?” “Ugh! “Where palefaces going?” the young chief of the => fe dead warriors and uried the dead. he story of Nora Mun- er mother and aunt. her lonely condition. Tid were now captives in be ap motchkiss. “I'll never trap © mother kiss each other.” “if you go I know I shall ged life. They cannot kill “Never { hunting party asked. . “We are hunting the bear an’ deer,” replied Jed. yer seen any deer ter-day?” “Have “The paleface’s tongue is crooked,” said the young chief. é “He is on the warpath.” im ' “The young chief is a fool. Ef we were on the warpath we - | would take his scalp instead of talking with him.” “The paleface lies. He cannot take the red man’s scalp,” ® and the young chief gave him a look of defiance. the young chief want ‘to fight the palefacest” Jed | anked, seeing that fhe ald "not show a bold front they would conclude that he and his comrades were cowards. _ “Ugh! yes—Injun fight paleface,” was the bold reply, and ~NEW a

Page 12

fie pesky varmints!” exclaimed to reload his rifle. “If they! left the dead lying where ime to bury the dead out in t The party then they had fallen, the wilderness—pa the dead were Indians. encamped on the banks of a smal] stream anc put out a strong guard to prevent surprise d 5 Just after they ha ished at seeing a ta “witha blanket throw “tinels. and approach f “Hello, redskin!” _“who are you, an’ wh _ The Indian gave hi pressibn of contempt which was all Dutch to i supper they were aston- ting Indian, unarmed and iders, march past the sen- wing at the newcomer; seemed to have an ex- » a reply in a jargon { ed, and as it was not like anything the whites before, they stared at each other in no little surg “Are you a Mingo?” one’of the party asked. The reply of the savage was as clear as mud to the pioneers, _. but the haughty demeanor of the red man was what puzzled Pe » them more than anything else. They could not understand why he came into their camp unarmed and alone, with an air of superiority about him. _ .. Jed understood pretty well all the tongue of the Mingoes, | and tried to make himself understood in that language, but _ the Indian seemed to be all at sea as to his meaning. “Give him a pipg of tobacco,” suggested one of the whites, “and see if he will smoke it.” The pipe was given him. He took it im his left hand, . looked curiously at it for 2 moment or two, smelled it, and “then returned it with an expression of disgust In his face, “Great b’ars!,” exclaimed Nick. “He's ther first redskin I ee ~tihee saw refuse a pipe of tobacco!” ~ “Guess he has strayed away from home an’ don’t know the 7} way back,” remarked one"of the party. ae “But the Mingoes would know something about bbim, or else , _ have his scalp,” said another. s The Indian turned suddenly on his heel and faced the last speaker, as if insulted by the remark, and made a rapid speech ze in that unmeaning of his. i , Then, as if regarding them as unworthy of his presence, he proudly threw. his blanket about ‘him and strode away in the| eee leaving the astonished whites gazing after him, and et A rane OF cere Ot Nee seria copetoee ae took his place behind him and waited for developments. “Yes, we must move.” They made preparations to moye at once. Ten minutes Tater they were silently marching through the woods in the direction they had been going during the day. Nick and Jed led the way, and the others followed in single file, stepping in each other’s «racks as nearly as possible. But after awhile Nick made the discovery that he was not leading the party—that he was following someone else just in front of him, At first he thought Jed had stepped forward. But a few minutes later he heard Jed’s voice immediately be- hind him. Then he nudged the man in front and asked: “Who is it?” Instead of making a reply, the man stepped forward a few paces and was out of sight, They could not see but a few feet distant under the dark shadow of the trees, Nick suddenly halted, and Jed asked: “What's up, Nick?” “Somebody is ih front of me,” “Who is it?” “I don’t know.” r “Whar is he?” and Jed stepped forward. don’t see anybody.” “He vanished when I nudged him and asked who he was,” replied Nick. “Has any of you been in front of me since we left camp to-night?” “No,” came from every man in the party. J “That’s very strange,” said Nick. “Somebody has been . leading me for a half hour, an’ I thought he was Jed till Jed spoke behind me just-now.” ‘ “Which way are we going?” one of the party asked, No one knew. The foliage of the trees was so dense over- “ead that only now and then could a star be seen. “Did yer follow his lead?” Jed asked, after a pause. “Yes. I thought you had stepped in front of me.” “Then it was a trick. Let’s turn ter the left, an’ Rep Straight ahead, an’ look out for the leader agin.” Nick turned in the direction indicated, and the others fol- lowed in silence, wondering who the strange leader was that had. been leading them, Suddenly Nick discovered a man in front of him again, and sprang upon him. He was shaken off and sent to the earth so quickly that he didn’t know just how it happened. ¢ “What’s the matter?” Jed asked, as he heard Nick fall. Saif Lord!” groaned Nick, “I believe it’s the devil bim- se ! ” , / “What is?” “That man in front of me.” “Did yer see *im agin?” “Yes, an’ I grabbed ‘im. He shook me off as ef I was a ehild.” ' *By gum! I want ter’git my hands on ‘im just once!” and Jed Hotchkiss placed himself in front of the party. “Ey *t—- any of yer git in front of me.” Jed drew his hi Knife and’ started to lead them. Nick was the reply. “Whar is he? I When a couple of miles were passed Jed thought he saw a moving figure in front of him. He crept up close to him and

Page 13

ie ; NICK AND JED. oo: ae any trap, as he did not try to lead them in any "particular direction. He seemed willing to go anywhere so long as he was leading. Jed became convinced that the tall savage bong a lunatic, and stopped to confer with his com- ti is,” p SWherer” Ea ~ “Just ahead, thar. I know who he is, now?” “Who is he?” a half dozen asked at once. tall Injun who caused us ter leave camp ter-night.” Loo amapee ‘he said, as he came to a halt. yer knife in the back!” ; $ wizen!” ad J “He has been leadin’ us a whole hour an’ in pertickler. I turned to ther right, an’ he ‘Then I went t’other way, an’ so did he. He ain’t is head, I reckon. No sane Injun would go about eapons in his hands as he does.” m, that’s so!” said Nick. “Let’s stop an’ camp, g about all night this way.” t's camp,” assented the entire band. ell try it, anyhow.” | = cordingly set to work to build a fire and put out It’s The moment they stopped the strange Indian disappeared from sight, and they saw nothing more of him during the night. “But (o guard against doing him any harm, should he again ¢ told the guards not to fire on him in case he did with him, pay no 5 Bifention to him,” given the guards. ; more of the Indian until sunrise, , looking as majestic as a barbaric to help himself to some of the venison th |etoaate arsach teres nthe in igre Ba il “Crazy or no crazy,” said one of the party, “he knows how to eat his belly full of other people’s food.” '*That’s so,” assented several of the party. “Well, we may not see him dgain.” saifi” Jed. move on now before our trail is found.” They pushed on through the forest in the direction of the village, where they + ge the two women had been carried as captives. When the sun was just disappearing behind the treet in the distance they came in sight of the smoke of the village. “Thar’s ‘the village,” safd Jed, as he caught sight of the thin, blue columns of smoke. “We must wait till the stars come out, an’ then see whar the women are.” They laid close under the bushes for several hours, waiting for a chance to get nearer to the village without being dis- covered. At last Nick said he would go forward and see what he could find out. “Stay whar yer afe,” he said to the others, and then he crept forward in the darkness. There were but few stirring about in the village, as it was now near midnight. A few old crones sat in the wigwams near the lower end of the village, smoking villainous pipes, the strong odor of which had driven all the yt to the upper end. “They would be likely to place the captives in charge of the old women of the village,” said Nick to himself, and. so he turned in the direction of the lower end of the village. The first wigwam he approached had a stifling oder of old pipes. But he endured the torture, and peeped through a small crevice, only to find three old crones and an aged warrior si- lently puffing away at their pipes. Thence he made his way among the other wigwams, peeping into every one in search of the captives. He was beginning to fee] discouraged, when he suddenly beheld a tall Indian war- ricr standing in front of one of the wigwams. The moment he saw him the hunter shrank back behind the other wigwam to avoid being seen. He knew that a single whoop would empty every wigwam in the village, and bring a swarm of vengeful savages about him. ~ But he kept his eyés on the warrior, and waited for him to go away. He did not seek an encounter now. He wanted to pursue the search for the seatives, and fight only when attacked. A half hour passed, and the tall warrior stood like a statue in front of the wigwam. Nick was greatly puzzled to know what it meant. He watched the savage and noticed that he stood motionless, af if merely trying to see how long he could remain in one position. - ‘ “We must Suddenly the thought occurred to Nick that he might be | the crazy Indian, of whom he had seen nothing during the day or evening. He resolved to find out if such was the fact, and accordingly moved very cautiously around the wigwam in the rear of the savage. Stepping as softly as the cat, the hunter gained the position he sought, and got near enough to satisfy himself that his suspicions Were correct. , He was within two feat of the singular savage, and could have touched him with his hand had he wished to do so. That the Indian was unarmed he well knew, and therefore had noth- Re eee ee ; But would he not give am alarm, and thus bring the war- riors in the village in a swarm about him? He stood several moments in doubt, and was about to re- . |tire to consult with Jed back in the forest, when he heard a woman’s voice in good English inside the wigwam. That de-

Page 14

42 NICK AND JED. white women, and two old Indian crones. The white women were in deep dejection, and their faces bore traces of tears. Who they were he had no means of knowing, as he had never seen either of them before. But he believed them to be the captives they w in search of. “Now what shali I do?” Nick asked himself a dozen times in as many seconds. To go in there and attack the two old erones would bring the warriors about him in swarms, and a horrible death would be his. He concluded, at last, to go and see Jed and the others about it, and act on bens united judgment. When he turned to go he found himself face to face with a stalwart Mingo warrior. . Quick as a flash he saw that he would have to cut for it or else fight the whole village. But in his wrath at having his game spoiled he made a desperate pass at the warrior's throat. He struck it, and, much to his surprise, the warrior gave a groan and sank down at his feet, his jugular severed in twain. Nick stopped as he was about io fly, rejoiced that his blow had heen so effective, and peered around to see if anyone had heard the groan. He saw no one save the tall savage in front of the wigwam, who stood there like a statue, as though he heard nothing. Then he peered through the crevice, and saw that the two old crones had taken their pipes out of their mouths and assumed listening attitudes. He kept quiet, anda few mo- ments later one of them arose and came out. Nick crouched close to the ground so as to avoid being seen, if possible. But she came right up against him. He sprang up and drew his knife across her throat so quickly that she never knew what hurt her. She sank down to the ground and yielded up the ghost. “That's good!” thought Nick, as he wiped the blood from his blade. “She’s a woman, but that’s all the same just now. Hark! The other one is coming!” . He crouched by the wigwam and waited for the other old crone to come out. She came, but stopped near the entrance, - just behind the tall Indian, and called to her companion in a low tone of voice. Getting no answer, she came round to the _ other side, where Nick was crouching like a tiger. Suddenly she saw a dark form rise up before her, and felt a quick, sharp pdin shoot across her throat, and she sank ‘ down at his feet as the other had done. “By the great bear!” mentally exclaimed Nick. “I can es take the two women away with me now.” —-s Drawing his knife through the skin of the wigwam, he made ‘ +a slit at least four feet long, and poked his,hand through it. ¢ ©," The two captives spraus to thelr. feet on socltig: = white jman-with's, knife in bis band. ‘ oe ' “Keep quiet!” he whispered. “I am a friend from Willard’s oe Settlement, where Nora is. Come with me. Be quick and ~ make no noise.” jen Shoth ecnae tell ot Uhalr mete and. clamwled’ thelr’ heede'tn prayer, and then, after a few moments, sprang up and Za of beat as they moved silently after the man who had so suddenly and unexpectedly rescued them from their savage captors. When out some little distance in the woods, Nick came to a halt and made a low signal. In a moment or two a dark form came through the bushes toward them. “What is it, Nick?” Jed asked, for he it was. “They are hyer,” “Who?” “Mrs. Munroe and her sister.” “Great gosh!” ejaculated Jed in dumfounded amazement. “Come, we must git away before their escape is found out,” said Nick. “Yes. Can the ladies stand a night-march?” “Oh, yes,” said Mrs. Munro. “We have had a good and are willing to walk all night, if it is necessary. did my daughter get to Willard’s settlement?” “Yes,” said Jed, “an’ as sound as a dollar, ther gam : gal that ever rode a horse!” “Thank God!” murmured the mother, the tears g from her eyes. '“I can endure any hardship to get ; is. She is all I have left in the wide world now.” “Oh, no, ma’am,” said Nick. “You have your sig everybody at Willard’s is your friend. But, come have men enough to protect you.” after which they placed them in the center and atartee n a bee-line for the Muskingum River. After a few hours’ march the first gray streaks of dawn began to appear. The women were tired, sleepy and hungry. Nick ordered a halt, cooked a good breakfast of venison steaks, rested an hour, and then resumed the march. “They can follow our trail at a full run : we may expect to have a hot fight in the a “Oh, mercy!” cried Mrs. Munroe, wringi we will all be killed.” : “Some of us may fall,” said Nick, “but Ty whip us. We have a dozen good men, and fi Injuns each, I reckon.” But the day wore on, and no signs of pursuers were seen. They began to hope that the savages had concluded not to pursue. ; But they were destined to a great disappointment. Just as the sun was sinking in the west, a wild yell, ac- companied by a shower of arrows, told them the Indians had caught up with them. The hunters wheeled and gave them a volley that laid five of them out on the grass, and wounding as Many more. The savages then took to the trees for protect, on, and tie whites did the samé. A few more shots were fired, att — it was discovered that another party of Indians from the opposite direction their pursuers had ¢o: Jed was in grave trouble, and thought for aw were on the eve of being overwhelmed by super His only hope lay in the fact that under the co : wae now fast approaching, they would probably be able ne ‘slip away and gain another march on them. This was his only hope, and it grew stronger as the dark- ness increased. He whispered to Nick, and Nick communi- cated the hope to the others. | ‘The darkness came on very fast in the great wilderness after the sun went down, The savages began to build fires ‘round them to prevent their escape during the night. Jed ; saw the great danger of any further delay. The circle of fires _|extended two-thirds the way round them, when he slipped : away, withthe others following close at his heels. ; ‘ sso iabciek Waker Siiee saw Gnas: seine Dab oF tae tata ia cae Seema a Wosbee. eng eg, rom Ot vet the opening into the darkness of the night. aw | Seen ‘ -

Page 15

NICK AND JED. 13 They made as fast time as the darkness and bushes would permit, and three hours passed ere they halted a moment. Then the sight of a campfire in front caused the halt. “Go forward an’ see what it is, Nick,” said Jed; and Nick obeyed, whilst the others laid down on the grass to wait for his return. A half hour later Nick valdiboan and whispered to Jed: “It’s a party of ten Injuns, an’ the river is just t’other side the fire, an ‘two good canoes are near the river bank.” “By gum!” ejaculated Jed; “ef we kin git them canoes we kin git away an’ leave no trail.” 5 “We kin git em,” said Nick, in low tones. “Lead ’em down thar,” pointing in the direction indicated, “an’ wait close to the water till I come with ’em.” Jed turned and whispered the hope to the others, and then led off. . Nick went in another direction. When he reached the river Nick, who had given his rifle “to Jed, slipped into the water as softly as a rat, and swam} down to where the two canoes were. The redskin on guard Gp. te the campfire with his back toward the river. But the could see that he was wide awake, and that he _ would have to be cautious indeed to get the canoes away with- ea out being discovered. ~ But he was a man of infinite resources as well as nerve. He saw that the paddles were in the two canoes, and that all he had to’do was to cut them loose and let them float with the “current. When he could swim after them and pull them in to the shore wherever wanted. That he succeeded in doing, and the savage sentinel sat at his post unconscious of what was going on around him. Down the river the two canoes floated, and the bold hunter swam after them, overtaking them when nearly opposite where Jed and the others were waiting for him. A few signals soon in- dicated the proper place to land, and in a little while the aa party, were in the canoes nd ready to start. . Settlement was upstream, so Nick suggested that _ «they over to the other side and go up under the deep ; shadow of the trees. It was agreed to, and the two canoes shot out into the stream under the strong arms of men who knew how to handle the paddles. Once on the other side they pulled upstream, and soon passed the Indian camp without being heard. When a mile or - so above their starting point, they pulled for the middle of the stream, and then laid to the work like beavers. The two ca- noes shot through the water like things of life, and the miles . were reeled off in rapid succession. Both the women were given a chance to snatch a few hours - of the sleep they so much needed. They slept until near day- light, when the two canoes were run in to the bank and the _ party landed. The men were so much exhausted from con- ; Ba ek eee rest | af thipves Cid WAM. down: to. reat. aiid aden, =~ maki -no fire to attract attention. Two guards were put out, "and told thet they conld sleep tn the boats when they started or more of Mingo warriors rush to the water’s edgé and-dis- charge their arrows at the two canoes, The whites leveled their deathdealing rifles, after taking deliberate aim, at the howling reds on the river bank, and fired. Every shot told, and the reds were astonished as well as enraged at the havoc the volley made. After that they kept well in the bushes and sent a shower of arrows at the canoes whenever a chance occurred. The whites moved over to the further side of the river, and kept on upstream, giving the reds a shot whenever one of them gave them a chance at his coppery carcass.. When they did fire they generally heard a death-yell from some unlucky abor- igine. But the Indians seemed to be determined to run them down and so kept up the chase all through the day. ‘ CHAPTER XII. A LONG CHASE—A STRANGE LOVER. Such a chase tvas bound to lead to a collision at some time, unless the pursued met assistance from some source. Ther. again, if the pursuers were to divide their force, and manage to get part of it on the other bank of the river, they would have the canoes between two fires and almost at their mercy. Jed began to look serious. He saw the danger that would follow in the event of the reds crossing the river. “Does anyone know how far we are from Willard’s?” he asked, looking from one to the other. “We ought to reach thar to-night, said Nick; “but then I don’t know how fast we are going in these canoes.” “Well, we can’t stop as long as them reds is followin’ us,” remarked Jed. “No, that’s a fact.” “Don’t stop on our account,” said one of the women. can go without food a whole week, if necessary.” “Oh, we can’t stop,” said Nick. “Thar’s too many reds in that band. We'd lose our har, sure. But if we should meet any canoes, we would be in a bad fix.” “We “Well, we may not meet any,” said Mrs. Munroe. “At least we will hope we will not, anyhow.” “Yes,” said Sarah Norris, Mrs. Munroe’s sister. “We will hope for the best and do our best. Rather than fall into their hands again I would prefer to sleep at the bottom of this river.” “Before they shall have you again,” said Nick, looking her full in the face, “I would lay down my life in your defense.” “So would all of us!’ cried the others, and the two women burst into tears at this devotion of the brave men around them. Just then an Indian warrior appeared in full view on the river bank and indicated a desire to parley with the whites. “What do you want, redskin?” Nick called out to him. “Me want to talk with my paleface brothers,” was the sav- bf can reply from the shore. “What do you want to talk about?” Nick asked. “Peace,” was the reply. - “Well, go away and let us alone and yon will have peace,” returned Nick. “Ugh! we want the paleface women,” cried the savage. “Shoot him down!” cried the hunters, in a rage, and a half dozen rifles were leveled at him. ‘The savage did some lofty tumbling to get out of the way afte Ble ant in ot E96 scat Ne Was oto sgh

Page 16

be 14 : _ NICK AND JED. " A shower of arrows came from the bushes, but not one She looked at him in supreme astonishment, and for the struck the canoes, owing to the distance, as well as to the fact| first time a faint flush came into her pale cheeks. She was ‘that they dared not show themselves where they could take a|on the eve of making a reply, when she caught sight of an- good aim. other redskin drawing his bow to send an arrow at, her. “Now, keep your eyes on them,” said Nick, “and every time| Quick as a flash the color left her cheeks, her eyes flashed fire, . you see a red, let him have a bullet.” and the sharp, whip-like crack of her rifle sent a leaden mes- aS 4h Two men in each canoe were detailed to watch and keep|senger of death to his heart. up the fire, whilst the others rowed. Bre the death-yell of the savage reached those in the ca- Thus mile after mile was passed, the monotony of the thing| noes, the whites sent up wild cheers, and waved their coonskin - being broken now and then by a death-yell from some redskin caps in the air. " . who had run against a bullet. But they did not cease to pull at the oars, and send the Ag When they were making a short bend in the river in the} canoes flying through the water at a high rate of speed. afternoon, an arrow came whizzing through the air and struck| sarah Norris came near falling into the water, and had to a young man in the forward canoe in the neck. The jugulat-| resume her seat till another chance to down a redskin oc- vein was cut, and the unfortunate young man bled to death in| eyrred. two or three minutes. : By and by the sun went down, and the yells of the reds Yells of triumph burst from the reds as they saw the effects| ingicated that they had greater hopes than ever of being able ___ of the shot, which were answered by a volley from the whites.| to capture the canoes. The ‘weary hunters pulled steadily at Si Sarah Norris was horror-struck as the young man’s blood] the oars and hoped that the coming darkness would aid > __ spurted over her dress. She looked toward the shore, and saw | instead of their enemies. . af ® warrior peering through the bushes at her, and then a} At last the stars came out, and the weary “Owers kept _ furious desire to avenge the young man’s death seized her. | nearer to the middle of the stream. »_-——s Taking up his rifle, she stood up in the’canoe and took de-| © “They can’t see so well now,” said Nick, “and we can have oom aint at the savage, who made a wry face at her. The] a bettér chance to see which way we are going.” Next moment she pulled the trigger, and the redskin dropped) «Hark! Listen!” said Jed, as he stopped rowing and lis- - dead in his tracks, | tened. : ae “Hurrah? that’s a good shot,” cried Nick. “Give her an- The others did likewise. | be ec Ses * ; Reo os sae ite wes ae th pe as th Up the river they ‘could. distinctly hear the paddies of a Beit ‘a to ae of “ye pe another! number of eanoes coming down the stream. Bethy ng AEE the. Cemons. “More redskins!” he whispered. “We must pull for the it Se ft y . she te ught sight) of one as he was running bank and take our chances in the woods.” Pr and ee reagan ; = Sos rifle and ted quickly Just then a yell from the other canoes caused the whites : . ee . : ; a for the banks ad “Give her another gun?” crted Nick. “She's the eee to see a danger, and a run for the , made. eer "| the crowd,” ‘a ’ * i z another gun, shy very icon had Muither ote Gown, 's Se te ve er ‘tact th changed the tenor of the savage yells. They were}. CHAPTER 'XIIL 4 Se tienage at the terrible execution of the palefaced maiden, si ee Es Seer rons atv view for some time after the third man 54 ES had fall ae her unerring aim. ; : Sarah was as'pale as death. ‘ . Ae a Se “ Just a moment or two after the two canoes shot in under eS oe eS non naelg r a iit z human being,” — es the shadow of the trees, several canoes filled with Indians : i swept past them’ on their Way down the river. Jed and Nick hoped they would pass on without stopping, and thus leave them to pursue their journey unmolested. | But they were doomed to: disappointment. The savages on ~ | the other side of the river yelled out to them that there were two canoes full of palefaces on the further shore. Then the yelling became perfectly terrible in intensity, and the canoes turned from their course and shot shoreward. ‘ Nick and Jed saw and understood the danger, very. . promptly met it by running away ftom it, - oo “Come this way,” said Jed, leaping ashore, “and hola & each other's hands, so as not to get separated.” | “Let’s give ‘em a volley first,” suggested one of the party. “No,” said Nick. “They will send a shower of arrows at the flash of our rifles, and may do a great damage. Come away. | They can’t see our trail in the dark. Come on—quick!” A to Holding to’each other's hands, the brave Pioneers led the way into the forest, holding, themselves in readiness to die, if : , and | Recessary the two rescued women in their midst. _ ‘Phe savages! landed and etna pe prnanrienir te the escape of ‘their , THE ESCAPE IN THB WILDERNESS.

Page 17

NICK AND JED. “Nick,” said Jed, “we want to find out where we are afore We go any further.” _ _. *Yes,” replied Nick. much, dark as it is.” “Well, one must climb a tree and find out which way is east,” said another. “Let’s hunt around till we find a tall tree,” Nick said, and the hunt commenced. But during the hunt they walked a good way into the forest. At last one of the party, whose hearing was very - acute, declared that he heard voices'in a certain direction. The others listened, and thought they could also hear voices. “Then we will go in that direction,” said Nick, and he led off, followed by the whole party, clinging to each other's hands. A mile was passed, and then they came to the edge of a clearing, in the center of which they saw several cabins with tats . sy, bless my soul!” cried one’of the men. “This is our home! Ve are at Willard’s Settlement! Whoop! Hurrah!” Thepbalance of the party were amazed at the sudden turn in their good fortune, and could not believe their eyes and ears at first. But when they heard the glad shouts of welcome from the families in their cabins they, too, Joined in the gen- eral hurrah. : Torches were lighted, and men and women ran out to wel- come them back to their homes, i; “We want to go east. I know that - P While Ben was making his arrangements to build him‘a home, Nick and Jed were preparing to take leave of the settle- ment and return to their homes on the Allegheny river. Of course, old Ben Willard wanted them to make their homes at his settlement, but they both declined. “Our traps is all over thar,” said Jed, “an’ we've got a lot 0’ pelts hid away for the traders when they come.” “Beaver is plentiful on the Muskingum,” old Ben said, “an’ we will soon haye a trading-post hyer whar you can sell all your pelts.. Thar’s more safety when more rifles git together.” Pretty Nora Munroe went up to Jed, and, laying her hand on his arm, looked up in his face and said: “We shall miss you ever so much if you go away, Mr. Hotch- kiss, and we will not feel so safe from the Indians.” That touched the hunter in a tender place, and he said: “J will come back agin an’ see yer.” “Oh, will you? I am so glad to hear that!’’ and the bright look that eame into her eyes caused the terrible Indian fighter to turn his gaze in another direction, and his heart fluttered like a bird in a cage. “Yes,” said Nick, “we will come back agin soon, an’ see about the beavers hyer,” and then the two hunters shook hands with eyery man, woman and child in the settlement, after which they shouldered their rifles and plunged into the great forest. Having no one in charge to look after and guide through the trackless wilderness, our two heroes pushed on with good “Oh, my mother!” cried Nora Munroe, rushing out of the ispeed toward the Allegheny river. They knew that every one - eabin where she had found a home. “Have you found my > mother and Aunt Sarah? Tell me—tell me quick!” pre “My child! my child!” screamed the overjoyed mother, rushing forward and clagping Nora in her arms, -. “Mother! Mother!” cried Nora, in a wild paroxysm of joy. ~~ Sarah Norris tan up, and all three were clasped in each ae “ts arms, whilst others looked on and rejoiced with them. P came a shadow of gloom over the little settlement, when the news of Dick Ellis’ death by the redskins was an- nounced. He was a brave youth whom everyone liked, But when it was told how fearfully Sarah Norris had avenged him ____ every eye was turned on the maiden aunt of the young Nora. fe - But they were al] tired and hungry, and anxious to get both ~ food and sleep. A supper was soon prepared for all of' them, and they did ample justice to everything that was set before them. /Then they all retired to rest, and in the still hours of "the night Nora’s mother told her of the offer of marriage . “Oh, I do hope Aunt Sarah will accept him!” said Nora. 5 Bie - happy if married to a good man like him.” :| between them, groan of their traps was full of game by this time, and were particu- larly anxious to reach them as soon as possihie. Late in the afternoon they ran across a fresh Indian trail. “By gum!” exclaimed Jed. “They are out strong! Hope they ain’t goin’ up»our way.” “They are a war party,’ said Nick, after examining the trail a few minutes, “an’ going right up our way, sure.” They were not sure how far ahead the redskins were, and so were at once on their guard against running into them. As if to tempt them to fire their rifles and thus alarm the redskins and make their presence known, a huge black bear in a clump of bushes rose on his hind feet and gave Jed a tre- mendous blow with his paw, Jed staggered backward from the force of the blow, and the bear advanced, as if to repeat the blow or give him one of his fatal hugs. “Take care, thar!” cried Nick, as he saw Bruin making for Jed dropped his rifle, as he dared not fire, and drew his hunting-knife. Bruin growled and prepared to meet him. Nicky also ran forward, knife in hand, and the combat com- menced, The bear was very pugnacious, and acted as though he wanted to make a meal of both the hunters. He struck right and left with his huge paws, the claws of which seemed like so many steel blades to cut and tear. The hunters resolved to kill him, however, and set about to do it, Getting him they gave him stab after stab, ti]l at last he gave a of despair and rolled over in the agonies of death. f '

Page 18

st’ +? 16 a! disdain of the palefaces, and the same fearlessness of de- “meanor that had first attracted attention. “By gum!” ejaculated Jed. “Thar he is agin!” Nick stared at him, and held his rifle in readiness to fire if any more of the same color put in an appearance. But no more came. Only the mysterious chief came forward. He stood over the dead bear and 4 RO to be satisfied at seeing him there. “Ugh!” he grunted, and then ee in a jargon which * neither Nick nor Jed could understand one syllable of, try hard as they would. “Want some b’ar meat, chief?” Jed asked, in a friendly way. The chief turned and gave him a contemptuous glance, and made no reply. Then he wrapped his blanket about his tall form again, and stalked away, as if the two palefaces were too insignificant for him to notice. | “By gum!” exclaimed Jed, gazing after the redskin. “He’s so darned aristocratic under that old blanket that he can’t speak to a white man.” “Of all the redskins I ever saw,” Nick said, queerest. I don’t know what to think of him.” “Nor do I,” remarked Jed, taking one of the paws of the dead bear in his hand, as if to feel the weight of it. “I never saw him with any weapons in his hands. I wonder what he would have done had this fellow met him instead of us?” “He is as strong as any bear, Jed,” said Nick. “He threw me off the night I caught hold of him as easily as if I had been a mere child.” — : Jed commenced cutting off one of the hams of the bear, at a which work Nick assisted. In a minute or two the ham was __ eut and several large slices taken from it and stowed away. _. This done, they resumed their journey, turning slightly out of their way to avoid the war party ee seen _ that afternoon. | ; Brita os When night came on they sought a very secluded eda atl _ where a light would not be seen any great distance. There _ they made a fire and cooked the bear steaks, which they had +) legen for that purpose. ae The odor of the broiling steaks filled the woods, and the . “two hunters began to tear that Tndlans would be attraeted " by it, and thus betray their presence in the forest. ; quickly and then move somewhar else to = eae said Nick, as _ “Yes,” said bite gaes “ef thar be any. hungry. redakins out. this ere s ‘Il fetch ‘em, sure,” and he laid the steak Scag ready to do justice to it. - the tall unknown savage again put in , and stalked up to where the tempting steaks : to the largest one, and began lanea abs a hungry wolf would have done. : i, as he watched the proceeding, : paying “he is the heat <5 peal ‘ — board, does he?” Ly sg eh aio NICK AND JED. “Nick, that fellow will git us in trouble ef we don’t wipe him out. Whar he goes, thar’s more like ’im.” “Jed, he ain’t a Mingo.” . “Yes, he is,” returned Jed. “He has all the makeup of a Mingo.” “Why, he can’t speak a word of the Mingo tongue!” “Don’t believe a word of it,” growled Jed. “I won't feed *im no more. He don’t so much as say ‘thank yer’ for all he gits.” “Waal, as long as he comes unarmed, we can’t hurt ‘im.” “No, but we kin kick ‘im out.” “Mebbe not. He may kick harder than we can.” Jed laughed, and was about to turn away to look after the provisions, when he was startled by a pandemonium of yells, At the same moment several hundred Indians rushed forward and surrounded them. Nick and Jed saw the hopelessness of resistance. But they were not the men-to allow themselves to be taken without a blow, so they fired their rifles, each laying out a savage, To: they clubbed their rifles and crushed two skulls ere *he red- skins recovered from their astonishment. But they were quickly overpowered by the mere weight of numbers, aud made prisoners. “Palefaces heap big fools,” said a chief, who was angry at the death of four warriors. “Not such fools as you think, redskin,” said Nick, who al- ways made it a point never to show any fear of the savages when in their presence. “We have laid out four coppery skunks, and that is some satisfaction to us.” “Ugh! Heap big fool. Injun burn paleface fools at stake.” “Qh, I don’t care anything for your fire. I’ve been burnt three times already.” The chief looked at him in surprise, as if the boast startled him, and then, after a pause of seyeral minutes, said: “Heap big liar, too,” and then turned away to let other jeer ther. CHAPTER XV. AT THE STAKE—THE RESCUE. The two prisoners were bound and tied to saplings, and a guard of two stalwart savages placed over each. They seemed ‘as cool as if they were the masters of the situation instead of being captives, and retorted to every taunt the redskins hurled at them, till they saw a white man approach, who seemed to have some influence over them. _“Who are you?” the white man asked. “We are white men,” So Nick. much?” ‘ a “Oh, yes. Tam a white man,” replied the other, a sinister smile playing around his lips as he spoke. Rasta you are, an’ mebbe you ain’t,” said Jed, Senpecting him of being a reregade. “What’s your name, anyhow?” “My name fs Simon Girty,” said the man, with a cruel | smile’on his face, “Maybe you have heard of me before?” “Yes,” said Jed, his eyes blazing; “I’ve heard of a cowardly -| white-livered skunk by that name, “who leads Indians agin Be atom, ab, eaters wes 8At SE Niby: Are you the “Can you say as (ast asta eso @SSnETa Se - a he did not mind that |In the fun.” gtk: ae

Page 19

NICK AND JED. ‘ “Yes, certainly,” and with that Nick spat direct in the ren- egade’s face, With a curse Simon Girty drew his knife and made a rush at the prisoner. Nick raised his right foot—which was not tied—and gave him a kick that sent him rolling in the dirt ten feet away, amid the uproarious laughter of the warriors. He sprang to his feet, and was about to make another attack on him, when a chief stopped him. “Let my white brother wait and see his enemy burn at the stake. His heart will be glad when he hears the groans come from the flames,” “Yes, my red brother, the great chief is right,” said Girty, who was really sick from the blow he had received. “I will wait and listen to the groans of the white prisoner. He’ is the red man’s enemy, and ought to die at the stake.” — “Bah!” said Jed, in as contemptuous a tone as he could assume. “Simon Girty, you are a dirty, cowardly renegade vreckunk{ That's what you are. I would like to have my hands , tied behind my back and ‘be allowed to use my feet on you. I wouldn’t touch you with my hands. Oh, no. I’d just kick you round these hyer woods till the leaves turned red and fell to the ground.” “They will turn red when you feel the flames around you,” hissed Girty. “You will neVer see another sunshine. You will roast to-night.” “Goon with your'roast. I am not afraid of fire.” “Nor I, either,” put ‘in Jed. “I like fire, I do.” “Brag won’t do you any gdod,” said Girty, and he turned away to consult with one of the chiefs. The warriors began to make preparations for the burning, and large piles ef fagots were soon gathered and placed near the two captives, whose feet were now bound to the saplings: In a very few minutes the fagots were piled up waist-high “7zTound the prisoners. the torch was applied to both of them, and the red tongues of flame began to climb up among them. The two * Hunters made up their minds that their time had come. There were too many redskins around for them to dream of getting away, even though they were able to free themselves from the stake. < “Simon Girty!” cried Nick, “may the curse of God rest on _-your soul! You will live in a hotter fire than this will be, _and you will suffer forever. Our sufferings Willslast but a few minutes. I can stand it, and only regret that such a cowardly wretch lives to repeat the crime.” “That’s a very fine speech,” said Girty, laughing in a mock- ing way; “now sing us "your death-song.” “Ob, you'll sing @ song before long that will pay for all this!” eried Jed, a8 the flaines began to blaze up and warm __ Bis legs. _ Suddenly an. awful yell fos upon them—a yell that was calculated to strike terror into the heart of any ordinary .. -Girty and sent him rolling on the ground. He'came with an ~ mortal, and was followed by the rush of an Indian, who upset lF sk: “Yes, the same,” replied Nick; “‘an’ I want to see him once more.” “So do I. He’s a queer one, but is the best I ever saw. They all seem to be afraid of him.” “Yes. I am more puzzled than ever about him. But he saved our roast for us, an’ I won’t forget it. He can eat with me as long as I have a mouthful of food.” “That fire scorched my legs.” “Just so. One of my legs was blistered. I knocked Girty down as I rushed past him. Had I gotten hold of any weapon I would have made short work of him, then and thar.” “We have nothing to fight with—no gun, knife, or anything. What shall we do?” “Do the best we can. We are free, an’ that’s good luck, anyhow.” “So it is. We were in a tight place that time.” “Yes; the worst of al] yet. Two minutes more an’ we would have been roasting good. By gum! ef I ever git that dirty Gipty in my power I'll turn Injun just one hour to give ‘im a roast.” They made their way through the woods as best they could, not really knowing in what direction they were going. They were determined to put as much distance as possible between themselves and the redSkins under Girty lest they should be recaptured. All night long they trudged along through the forest, and daylight found them still pushing their way in an easterly direction. Just as the last of the stars were fading away in the morn- ing light, Nick Nelson uttered an exclamation of astonish- ment and halted. “What is it?” Jed asked. “Look thar!” auswered Nick, pointing to a huge tree in front of them. Jed looked. “By gum!” he cried. “Our rifles, powderhorns an’ knives!” and he sprang forward with the eager delight of a child and caught up his faithful weapons. “Jed!” exclaimed Nick, as he examined his weapons and found them all right. “I don’t know if I am asleep or awake. I must be dreaming.” \ Jed stared at his companion, and read in his face the story of his astonishment. They gazed at each other for several minutes, and then turned to their weapons again. “I reckon we ain’t asleep,” Jed remarked, after a long pause. “At least, I ain’t, I know,” and he hugged his faithful rifle to his heart, as if the thing could appreciate his dem- onstrations of affection. “Who brought ‘em hyer?” Nick asked, looking around in search of some trail that would give him a clew to the mys- tery. But he could find nothing to clear it up, and so they both moved on toward the rising sun, in better spirits than ever before. Ere they had gone a mile, Nick saw a deer bounding past, and quickly raised his rifle and fired.. The deer sprang into the air and dropped dead. ; “Thar’s venison steaks for a breakfast,” said Nick, stop- | ping to reload, whilst Jed went forward to secure the game. When he reached the deer he stooped and opened a vein in his neck to allow him to bleed. When he straightened himself up again he found himself standing face to face with the mys- terious Indian chief!

Page 20

NICK AN \D JED. uterly dumfounded for a moment or two, and could do no more than stare at him. The Indian, however, did not seem to notic 4. His whole attention was engrossed by the carcass lying a. nis feet. He gazed down at the dead deer as if he were try'ng to recall the days of his youth, when he followed the chase with such youthful enthusiasm. “Hello, redskin!” cried Nick, suddenly coming forward and extending his hand toward him. “You did us a good turn last hello! what’s the matter?” At the first sound of Nick’s voice the chief gave a start, as}. if suddenly awakened from a dream, and then stared at both the hunters. They returned his gaze for a moment or two, and then he glided away into the forest like a specter. *By my soul!” exclaimed Nick, as he glared around at Jed,|- “that redskin beats all I ever saw. who brought our weapons back.” “So do I. He must be a big chief among 'em.” “They don’t seem to follow him, for he’s always aione when we see him. It’s strange. I don't understand him,” and the hunter shook his head dubiously as he spoke. _ Jed cnt off one of the hams of the deer, and prepared slices from it to cook for breakfast, whilst Nick made a fire. Both were ravenously hungry from wandering about through the forest all night, as well as tired and sleepy. The loss of sleep was beginning to tell on them, and they saw that they would have to take a nap somewhere soon, or nature would break down. _ When the venison steaks were broiling their savory odor seemed to fill the forest for many rods around. Several wolves anyon within rifie-range and sniffed the air with hungry eager- I believe he is the one ness; but the hunters dared not fire at them, lest the sound remarked Nick, as he felt of the dead monster. <Shile ahsole: dua some prowling pand of Indians to them. Just as the first steaks were ready for eating, and were laid out on p of bark, the mysterious chief put in his appear- —C from they knew not where—and stood over the savory “Hyer's the chief!” exclaimed Nick, the moment he caught sight of him. up and saw him, and the next mo- Ment Tose up tie dark dish fn his hand and presented it to him. ‘ a? “Hyer, chief,” be said. “Help yourselt. Weare gig¢ to ae ‘have you eat with us. . “The chit looked at the tempting sce of stk and then moment or two he seemed to doubt the good intentions of the - pailefaces.. Jed held the bark dish closer to him, and he took slices and it. He ate with wolfish | breath of relief. He was tired and sleepy, for neither of them had slept any in over forty hours. “Let’s git over thar,” said Jed, pointing to the other side of the river. '“Ves, an’ have a nap.” Down the stream about a mile they found a log lodged against the bank. They pushed it out into the ‘current and clung to it, and worked their way over to the other side. There they pushed the log out again and sent it on its way down the stream to an unknown destination. They did not stop to look about for a supper. They were too tired and sleepy to think of supper. Up the river a half mile they knew of a cavern under a cliff of solid rock. To that they made their way, with the intention of lying down for a long sleep. When they reached the cavern they started in without. tak- ing any precautions. A fierce growl caused them to run out much quicker 5 they had entered. - —— ‘It's a b’ar,”. said Nick. “Yes,” returned Jed, *an' we'll hev 'im out o’ thar in two minutes,” and he began making a bundle of fagots into a bunch for a torch. Lighting the torch, the two hunters re-entered the cavern and moved cautiously forward till the light reflected a blazing pair of eyes. aieh, aimed at them, while Jed held the torch, and fired. A roar followed, and both hastily ran out toeawait the re- sult of the shot. | Thé growls soon ended, and then they returned. The careass of a huge black bear was found. - “This will give us something for breakfast in the morning,” *He is as fat as butter.” “Let’s drag him-out, cut off his hams, an’ throw the~rést of him into the river.” It was done, and the two hams were hung up out of reach of. any other animals. The two hunters then returned to the cave and laid down on the bed of leaves on which the bear had met his death. Both were soon in the land of dreams, and remained there till noon of the next day, at which time they woke up, greatly refreshed and ravenously hungry. After making a hearty meal of bear steaks, the two hunters went off to look after their traps. They found them full of beavers. The whole of the afternoon was spent in securing the pelts, whichethey carried to the place where their catch was hidden. Two weeks were passed in trapping and hunting. Bear- || skins, deerskins, wolfskins and*many other skins were gath- | ered in, and they began to look forward to the time when they would have to pay a visit to the tradinig-post near where _ : | Pittsburg now stands. Several times they had to hide from the hunting parties of engin who Were out in search of game. They did not care to provoke any trouble so near their traps, as the hunting parties. were. strong enough to drive them away and destroy | thebr | a thing they would very much deplore. — time came for them to go, and accerdingly they their pelts in as small packages as possible, dance a te hain = started out. : o 4

Page 21

NICK AND JED. t Several days were spent in laying in a stock of ammunition and other necessary supplies. Each bought a brace of pistols; are Scarce over thar—look out! to conceal about his person, to be used in case of sudden emergencies or in very close quarters with man or beast. ‘As was the case with all trading-posts on the frontiers, Indians were coming and going all the time, buying and sell- ing beads and furs. - Nick and Jed met many old friends among whites and reds, * and greeted them with the hearty cordiality that characterized One day a small party of Mingo warriors came in to sell some furs and buy blankets for the coming winter. Nick __s- went among them and discovered that three of them were the “ ones who had tried to burn him and Jed the night after the 3 escape of Nora Munroe, They recognized him, too, and seemed * uneasy about it. 4 He gave a whistle that brought Jed to his side. g “Do you know em?” Nick asked, pointing to the three Ml Mingoes in the party. Qned stared at them. “Yes, I know ‘em, drat ‘em!” he replied. F “Ugh!” grunted the three savages in a sullen manner, and ~ then they fell a-gabbing among themselves, and-in a few min- utes grew defiant—the others having promised to stand by them. 4 “Hyer, you yaller cowards!” cried Nick, “you've got to fight _. us whar we cap hev some show. Three of us will fight three of you, an’ thes best man wins.” 2s Indians were not cowards in those days. To decline a fight was not in their rule of action, and so they accepted the chal- lenge, the duels to be fought with knives. The Mingoes at once began blowing, as all savages do on ‘the eve of-a fight. “Ugh! Palefaces run away from Injuns once. ™> ‘am scalps now!" “ick and Jed went among the white hunters ‘and told their story, asking for a third man to meet the third Indian in the _ fight. A dozen volunteered at once, and the preparations for the fight went on very quietly. — ah The agent of the post tried hard to prevent the fight. But "the hunters warned him to keep out of the way and not in- ” terfere in the matter. _ a “I'm going to hev my revenge on them pesky varmints,” “an’ that tight hyer,” and all the white hunters at q atanont excitement prevailed, ind all the whites went . OP teen nay armed to the teeth, to meet any demon- _-strations the reds might make. | Injuns take ~~ na He'll give you a drink of firewater for it. White men’s scaly’s I got a piece of your nose that time!” “Ugh!” grunted the savage, as he felt the sharp knife of the hunter clip off a piece from the end of his nose, and he made a rusb at him to force the fight and either kill or be killed. Nick saw his game, and gave him a blow between the eyes that sent him rolling over and over on the grass. The white hunters reared with laughter, and the ne yelled like demons. The warrior rose to his feet in a dazed sort of way and glared around him. “Ha, ha, ha!” chuckled Nick. “You would burn me at the stake, eh? I'll take your scalp from your head an’ turn you loose to a living death!” The savage made another desperate rush on the hunter and was knocked out again. He rose to his feet and made another rush. Down he went again. This last blow stunned him so that he lay still on the grass till he felt a sharp pain on his head. He sprang up with a yell, only to have Nick slap him in his face with his ‘scalp. “Thar’s yer scalp, redskin!” cried Nick. “Take it an’ show it to your squaws!"” and with that the hunter threw the scalp into his face and walked away. The Mingoes howled like so many demons and broke in a run for the woods, leaving their unfortunate comrade alone where he had lost his ‘scalp. In those days the worst fate that could befall an Indian was to lose his scalplock. He was henceforth shunned by old and young among his people. None would speak to him; nor would he be allowed to dwell in any village of the tribe. His fate was worse than death. To die with the hair still on his head was honorable. To lose his hair and live was a living death. : “Now go and burn more whites!” cried Jed, as he passed the disgraced warrior, whose physical sufferings were such as no pen can describe. A shovelful of live coals on the top of one’s head would not cause any worse suffering. The entire form of the stalwart. savage quivered with the agony he en- dured. — But he could no longer mingle with his race. They would never sympathize with one who lost his scalp and lived, and_ so he had to wander in) the trackless wilderness and ; die, maybe, from the terrible wound on his head. When he strode away to the forest the white hunters looked after him, and mentally regretted that the whole Mingo tribe eould not be served in the same way. The agent at the post - ‘threatened to leave, saying that he would have a thousand Mingo warriors about him inside of a week. The white hunters laughed, and told him that the three Indians had been killed in a fair fight, and that the tribe _ | would not thus wage an open war with the government. Time would prove it, er we: ee a ee ‘thelt pelts and 2 parchinbed *thole sieinednte; fed shook bands with thet out peed old hi - ds, thot oie cess

Page 22

pee — - : . 5 But their first night in the forest sent them in quest of other and very different ganfe. They were encamped about haitfway between the trading-post and their traps, when they were attacked by a large party of Mingoes. Fortunately, they discovered their presence just in time to make their escape without any damage being done. The darkness enabled them to remain in the vicinity with- out being seen or having the fear of immediate pursuit. They ~ were so astonished at meeting such a large body of Mingoes on that side of the river that they resolved to investigate the cause of their presence there. Concealed in the bushes near the campfires they perceived that the band had a number of white prisoners, two of whom they recognized as belonging to Willard’s Settlement. Knowing that all the young men at Willard’s were eager hunters, who often went many miles from home, Nick and Jed thought it nothing strange that two of them had been cap- tured. That more of them had not been killed or made pris- oners was sheer good fortune. Ag But, while they were waiting and watching, the two prison- ers, who suspected that Nick and Jed were in the vicinity, concluded to give signals which they believed they would understand. —~ But the first signal, which told the hunters who they were, “was promptly cut short by the Mingo chiefs, who whacked | them over their heads with the flat sides of their tomahawks. “Ugh, be still!” said one of the chiefs. “Paleface one heap big fool,” and he gave the young man a whack along the side ' of his head with a tomahawk. _ Crack! went Jed’s rifle, and the Indian fell dead at the feet of his prisoner. : 3° Then pandemonium broke loose. Every redskin yelled at =. {404 top 08 his: voice, and p shower of srrows.went whisxing im the direction of the flash of the rifle. But the two hunters nimbly changed Positions the moment}. the shot was fired, and thus escaped unhurt. They rushed around to the south side of the — and there laid in wait for _ something else to turn up. : aay Achill: abe. gee pages nade ienneeagex Gonciniiod ama mt the two hunters had gone away, and began to amuse them- _ selves at the expense of their white prisoners, one of whom Pe they tied to a large tree, and threw their tomahawks with the intention of striking so close to his head as to cause him to _ squirm with fear and suspense. hi As cach tomahawk was thrown, the villains would roar bg ergot Nick and Jed watched the proceedings with pe uated isiethet, Bavige thaiapaivée ones: pastes through the ‘They well knew that the redskins did not intend to kill _the prisoner that way, as their favorite mode of treatment was ‘the stake, yet one savage threw his tomahawk so close as to ps wanadeibe: Seiscneny: auf it om the last tomahawk he NICK AND JED. - “Great b’ars!” said Nick, “I'll do it, Jed. Give me ten min- utes, and then blaze away.” The two hunters grasped hands in token of an explicit understanding of the desperate undertaking, and then Nick slipped away in the darkness with the soft, stealthy steps of a panther. Jed waited quietly until such time as he thought Nick had arrived at the opposite side of the camp, and then swept his eye over the band to select the most prominent warrior for his target. Then he took a deliberate aim and a chief went down, whilst a chorus of yells went up. As was expected, the whole band made a rush in the direc- tion of the shot, and Jed, in order to add to the excitement, drew his brace of pistols, gave them two shots in rapid suc- eession, and then darted away out of the reach of danger. It was then that Nick made a dash for the prisoners, and in less time than is taken to record it, the bonds that bound them were cut, and the five men were free. They darted into the woods beyond the reach of the light, _ and in five minutes were joined by Jed, who led thers away from the dangerous vicinity. Mile after mile was passed, and the river reached 2 little before daylight. .They searched around till they found a log, by means of which they got across the river without wetting their ammunition. On the opposite bank of the river they made their way to one of the many caverns that abounded in that section of the country, leaving no trail on the rocks over which they passed. “They will try to follow us, boys,” said Nick, “and will keep it up as long as they can see the trail. If we had arms enough, I wouldn’t be afraid of them, but we haven’t and so must keep out of tlieir way.” “If we had arms,” said one of the rescued men, follow the other party and rescue the girl. % “we could “Why, Nora Munroe,” “She was captured three days ago.” Jed Hotchkiss staggered as if stricken a terrible blow, while his bronzed face changed to an ashen hue. “They have got the brave girl again,” he said, as if com- muning with his own thoughts. “A braver girl. never lived, and Jed Hotchkiss is not the man to trap beavers or hunt any other game while she is in trouble.” “That’s me, too, Jed,” said Nick. “Py go with you to the heart of the tathe and spill their last aren of blood for the gal.” -. “So will we,” count on us.” “You shall have weapons,” said Nick. “We have nearly a dozen of old rifles and muskets in a cave up the river, whar we have more pelts hidden away.” “By gum!” said Jed, “I forgot about them. ‘1 reckon som? was the reply. said the other five. “If we can get weapons of ’em is rusted.” ~ “No,” said Nick. “I put Wares grease on them when I was ., uD thar.” It was Geiniedthtely agreed upon that after breakfast, and ) the little cavern w their treasure was concealed. to ‘start it was nearly noon. In 7 ‘no ‘trail behind | them by which the savages ol ae them they raised two sunken cgnoes, poured the ! og put three in one and four in another, and all: ing against the current. — et on they run inte), the left, bamk.of ‘the pitous. cliff, which could “What girl?” demanded Jed. - taking two hours of sleep, they would make their way up the, -

Page 23

NICK AND JED. —— — weighing at least two tons rolling like a thunderbolt down “upon them. -* CHAPTER XIX. THE BEAR AND THE STONE. The terrible danger seemed to threaten immediate death to every one of the little party, for the huge stone was com- ‘ing down upon thm, crushing everything in its way. “Save yourselves!” cried Jed, as he made a spring into the water, leaving his rifle lying on the ground. The others, - moved by a common instinct, threw down their rifles, and dived into the water after him. __ They were not a moment too quick. The great stone struck almost in their tracks, and then rolled into the river, crushing one of the canoes, ‘and taking it to the bottom. The last one to plunge in the water was almost grazed by cats it descended. : “That was a narrow escape!” exclaimed Nick, as he turned to swim back to the river-bank. ~~ “Yes, an’ the danger ain’t over yit!” said Jed, looking up toward the top of the precipice. “Is any more coming?” one of the party asked, looking in _ the same direction. “I don’t know,” said the hunter, “but I know that that ‘ere stone didn’t start by itself. Somebody started it down on a us.” “Injuns!” exclaimed one of the young men, “an’ we ain't got our guns yit!” _ Jed was the first one to get ashore, and he took up his rifle to examine it. Nick was the next one out, and his rifle also 4 underwent a close inspection. no-no stone had not touched either of them, and so they turn-j ed their attention to their powder-horns. But their fears were soon relieved in regard to their powder, which proved to be ‘But while they were edaneinidy their ammunition several ~ small. pebbles came rattling down from above. Again every eye was gazing upward, and Nick and Jed "stood ready to use their ee weapons on any foe that might show ‘himself. — ‘The pebbles kept falling, and the hunters stood still, in great pe! ey Sows wriggle Nick exclaimed: Saat It’s a bar!” ' single iran on.” i parig-tad cones anh of him shunt the. same ee ee nts, -clingin’ to that (Sieias thar, an’ it’s as young men, looking around him. “There’s room enough here “He’s dead,” cried one. “The bullet and the fall together would have killed two bears,” said another. They stood around and looked at what they believed to be the last kicks of the beast. Nick quickly reloaded his rifle, for no one knew how soor another foe might put in an ap- pearance. “He’s a fat fellow,” remarked one of the young hunters, stooping and feeling the side of the bear. The touch seemed to suddenly recall the bear to life again. He made a sudden move and was on his feet in a twinkling, growling fiercely. “Look out!” “He's alive!” “Take care.” “Let me shoot ‘im!” The party tried to get out of the way of the enraged ani- mal’s claws. But they were not entirely successful, for he struck one of them a powerful blow with one of his paws, and knocked him into the river. Crack! went Jed’s rifle, and the black beast went down with an angry growl. The bullet had gone clean through his heart, and in five minutes he was a dead bear. “By gum!” exclaimed the young man who had been knocked into the river, “he hit harder than a thunderbolt!” and he rubbed the side of his head ruefully as he stood drippitg on the banks of the river. “Waal, we've got ‘im now,” said Jed, taking out his knife and proceeding to take off the bear’s skin. The others assisted him, and in a very little while both that and the two hams were laid aside. The rest of the carcass was then thrown into the river. It floated away with the current. “Now, come on,” said Nick, taking up one of the hams. “The sooner we git to the cave the better it will be for us.” Jed took up the bearskin, and a young man shouldered the other ham, and all followed the lead of Nick. The hunter followed a narrow defile along the water’s edge, and then, after going about fifty yards, turned and began a very hazardous ascent of the mountain—one of those steep heights that, abounded in that section of country.. They all climbed after him, and when he entered a@ narrow fissue in‘the face of the great rock, they were close at his heels. “This is the cave,” said Jed, throwing down the heavy bear- skin as he entered a large room just a few feet beyond the outer entrance. “Hanged if it ain’t a good one!” exclaimed one of the for fifty people.” “Yes,” said Nick, “AS NE Seiten SRR Pe Sa river, where we can get water without being exposed to dan- : /ger, were the Indians to hem us up in here.” “Do they know anything about it?” one of them asked. uy. don’t think they do. When we build a fire in here to cook | our meals the smoke goes out of the top of the mountain a x, | ait mile trom hye “ant they don’t know Sines ie chia from,” chuckled Jed. two hunters laid down the bear-hams they were carry- op bys pryotrasopenesn pant aaa a As sae me gathered these tagots ast. year,” remarked DEEP galigex polar gee: Opin, Soe w

Page 24

92 NICK AND JED. “We must git back to the cave,” said Nick. “They'll send a lot of big stones rolling down on us if we stay hyer.” “Yes,” added Jed. “Then we may have a chance to kill some more of ’em,” and with that He picked up fhe dead warrior who had fallen from the top of the mountain and threw him into the river. The current carried the body quickly out of sight. “He didn’t deserve such a burial,” said Nick, “but we don’t want any such stuff lying round here.” To save the boat, or canoe, from destruction, Nick seized and thrust it under a shelving rock, after which they all reas- cended the mountainside toward the cave. Ere they reached it, however, the reds sent a shower of arrows down at them, none of which took effect. The savages yelled like to many demons, thinking the whites were coming up to give them battle. But when*two hours passed, and they saw nothing more of the hunters, the redskins began to grow impatient in their thirst for blood. They well knew that they could not descend the mountain on the river side, so they resolyed to go down the ofher way and attack them on the river-bank. Accordingly, they moved up in that direction, and crossed the river to take up a position opposite the face of the mountain. “Let ’em alone,” said Nick. “Ef they don’t see us they'll come over to hunt for us. Bf they come up hyer among the crags we can kill ‘em all.” “By gum!” exclaimed Jed, with a savage eagerness. “Let's kill °em all. They are worse’n wolves, and hadn’t orter live.” The other six hunters agreed with him to try to entrap the whole band and destroy it. He was so enraged over the recapture of pretty Nora Munroe that he was merciless in his hate of the redskins, and was ready to swear a war of exter- mination against them. The savages whooped and yelled for several hours, and failed to induce the palefaces to come out of their hiding place. They then concluded that the whites were afraid to face them, and so they had to cross over and go up the face of the mountain in search of them. As they had canoes on the river they were s00n across, and at the very spot where our heroes were in the habit of land- ing whenever they visited the cave, and then began a cautious, devious climbing of the precipice. “Wait till they are almost up to the entrance,” said Nick, “an’ then we can lay out seven at one volley. Then when we reload we can lay out seven more before they can git back to the canoes. They will yell an’ charge after thp first fire, which is just what we all want ’em to do.” — They waited until the head of the band reached a crag in front of the cavern, and then, at a signal from Nick, seven rifles cracked loose, and seven redskins wentetumbling back on those behind them, % Wild yells echoed and re-echoed up and down the river, and “time, an’ two of us can take care of ‘em as fast as they tome.” ‘ Jed: started the fire with his tinder-box, and in a few minutes the blaze threw a cheerful light against the rough, ragged stone walls of the cavern, revealing a large room, . which communicated with other further back in the bowels of the mountain. In one of these smaller caverns were a number of old rifles and muskets, which Nick and Jed had eaptured from Indians who did not know how to use them. These were examined, and found nearly all of them fit for use. y While one was broiling the bearsteaks, the others were busy cleaning the rust off the guns, and preparing ammunition for them. “Cook both hams,” said Nick to the man who was broiling the steaks, “for we will need cooked rations on our journey to-morrow.” The evening was spent in drying their clothes and cooking bearsteaks, after which they retired, and slept soundly till the next morning. CHAPTER XX. A ONE-SIDED BATTLE. By sunrise the little party of seven hunters, now all well armed and rested, were ready to set out in search of the young maiden who had been again captured by the Mingoes. Bnough bear-steaks had been cooked to last them a week, so they would not be under the necessity of cooking anything to eat during that length of time. “Come on,” said Jed, leading the way out of the cave. “We must all crdwd in one canoe till we can git eacthes, or march all the way through the forest.” Nesing? eniowcdl Win: Wate toma the “eget “wiskad the canoe lay just a few feet from the place where the bear fell the day before. While there, they were startled by a chorus of yells way up on the top of the mountain. ¥ Looking up there they saw a band of at least fifty redskins dancing about in great glee at having discovered the white men. They had seen the smoke ascending through the rocky erevices on the mountain-top, and had been looking all around for the source of it. The odor of the broiling bear steaks had i algo penne with the smoke, and it made them hungry |« fi ee eee bea B8 Le ze E tell the cave by the little winding path used by the hunters. + These facts were well understood by Nick and Jed, for roe Shither: dell best sll aveg, the eeuntain {imo and again. a te as he - jooked up at the savages, “hisses, aa pep saa seocatiene prisoners.”

stronghold by storm. Just as a dozen had climbed up on thé fatal crag, another j volley of rifle-shots sent seven more tumbling down on the others below. ; : “That's rents gene!” chuckled Jed, with a satis- Trusting in the euperiority of numbers, tho Tete Rope etna ing up, and making the river and mountain ring with their yells. In another minute or two the crag was covered again, Te asd then another volley Sent séven:\nore ravi down eming: 1 Nga iat ayn el nn or 0, eye» ee a. Bogert Se ne ae

Page 25

NICK AND JED. to set out in the other two at sunset, floating with the cur- rent, leaving one man in each on guard while the others slept. By that means they would gain a day’s march and be re- freshed by a night’s rest. Rowing till near midnight, the others laid down to sleep, while the guards kept the canoes in the middle of the stream. Sunrise found them floating with the current and with keen appetites for breakfast. One of the young men was of the opinion that the party which had captured Nora Munroe belonged to Gray Hawk's band, a warlike chief, whose village lay on the right bank of the Muskingum. The whites would have to march overland to that river, after going about one hundred miles down the Allegheny. The evening of the second day found them at least one hundred miles from their cavern home, where they had so signally defeated. the Mingoes. They encamped on the banks of the river, and prepared to start at daylight the next morning. The march was 2 long one, and it was not till the evening of the second day of the tramp that they reached the Muskingum River. Then they went into camp to rest and be prepared for any emergency the next day might bring to them. They were within a few miles of Gray Hawk's village, and that fact neces- sitated the greatest caution. To avoid attracting the attention of any prowling redskins who might be in the woods, the hunters proceeded to make a supper of the cold bear steaks which they had brought with them. ° - Just as they were about to comménce the meal, they were amazed at seeing the tall form of the mysterious chief who had rescued Nick and Jed from Simon Girty approach them. The young hunters sprang to their feet and seized their arms. : “Be easy!” called out Nick. “He is our friend.” “Yes,” added Jed. “He is a friend in need. He wants his supper,” and with that he stuck his knife through a big slice of bear steak, and met the majestic savage half way. “Glad to see the great chief,” said he. “Ugh!” grunted the chief, giving him a grunt of recognition ag he seized the proffered steak, and devoured it with the vor- acity of a half-famished wolf, The others stood around and eyed him with no little won- der, as he was entirely unarmed, P The Indian ate three slices of the cold steak and then turned on his heel, and walked away with a grunt of satis- faction. ; “What. do you let him go away for?” one of the young men asked. “He may tell the Mingoes that we are here, an’——” “Hold your peace,” said Nick, “The Mingoes can’t under- stand a word he says.” “Why, ain't he a Mingo?” “TI don’t know. He speaks a tongue which neither reds nor whites understand. The reds are all afraid of him, »| though he never carries any arms,” _ “Oh, he’s the queer old redskin you told us about when you were at Willard’s?” “Yes—the same. I'l] bet the girl is not far away from “Won't he tell where we are?” rE a@t a time, and as fast as they came they were knocked ; the head with a rusty old rifle barrel in the hands of Hotchkiss. se-behind could not see the terrible slaughter going on gmt, and so kept on howling and pushing forward. Jed : on crushing skulls with the rusty rifie-barrel till the “narrow passage was too full to allow any more to pass. _ Then those behind began to grow suspicious and held aloof, t still yelled and danced about as if the victory was al- eady theirs. _ AS no more would dare attempt to enter the cave, the hunters had to open fire on them. A shower of arrows was sent in return, but as the whites could not be seen from _ without, not one was even hurt, much less killed. ' Such a one-sided affair could not last long. The savages had > but a dozen or so left out of a band of fifty. They suddenly / "made the discoyery, and then a panic seized them. They their yells of defiance to cries of terror and dismay, and a rush to get away from the fatal spot. But they could not descend with any more speed than they had used - im ascending, without incurring the risk of breaking their necks, or half the bones in their bodies. “Now let them have it!” cried Nick, darting out of the caye, followed by the others. + They opened fire on the retreating, demoralized wretches, till only five redskins were able to reach one of the canoes. . Two of those were killed and one wounded ere they could get out of the range of the deadly rifles. Then the whites waved their coon-skin caps above their heads and made the welkin ring with their shouts of vic- tory. << eS \ i CHAPTER XX. oe ag THE TALL CHIEF AGAIN. - *By gum!” exclaimed Jed Hotchkiss, almost beside himself _with joy over the destruction of the band of redskfns, “it's the _ happiest day of my life. Whoop! Hurrah! hurrah! The Mountain is yaller with ‘em, but they're dead!” _ The Hunters shook hands with each other, and congratulated ” themselves that two or three had escaped to tell the tale, so the |. seen would hear of the awful destruction inflicted. by will never come about this mountain again,” said as he looked around and down at the dead bodies, of with as much glee as a child would have done over a r of new boots.

Page 26

24- NICK AND JED. They were up again by daybreak, and kept well in the/| tall chief to save him from certain death at the hands of the ~ thicket to avoid being seen by any of the savages. But when| warriors in the village. they sat down on the grass to eat their breakfast the tall] No, he would not do that. chief made his appearance and ate with them. He would wait aid take the chances of finding out what he He would not sit down, but stood up and ate as he had done} wanted to know without running such a risk as that would so often before. He gave a few grunts, as if to express his | be. . satisfaction with the meal, but did not utter a word that| The tall savage was soon out of sight, and the hunter was any one of the party could understand. left alone in the clump of bushes on the edge of the clearing : When he was through eating he turned to leave. in Which the village stood. It was a clear starlit night, and he “Ask him if——” ‘could see many of the wigwams and the forms of warriors, “Ask him nothing,” interrupted Nick, glaring at the young| women, and children moving about. hunter who made the suggestion. “He nor we can understand| While waiting for something to turn up, he saw 2 chief in nothing that is said. He is already our friend, an’ that is| gaudy feathers coming toward him. enough for us to know just now.” “By gum!” thought Jed, as he glared at the savage, “you The chief was soon out of sight in the great wilderness, | are coming to a bad place if you only knew it.” and they knew they would see nothing more of him till} The redskin made direct for the very clump of bushes in night, when he would come back for his supper. which Jed was concealed. ‘The hunter couid not retreat with- _. They moved cautiously up the river in’ search of the vil | out running the risk of making his presence known. To do 4 lage, and about midday came in sight of it. It was quite a| that would alarm the village, and render it impossible to aid large village, judging from the number of wigwams and chil-| the fair Nora if she were really in the village at all. Stand- dren they saw. Of course, they had to keep concealed till| ing where he was, he drew his keen-edged hunting-knife, aud the shadows of night would enable them to prosecute their| prepared to cut down the redskin if he came within arm’s- / search for the young girl. { length of him. e Just as the sun was disappearing behind the trees the} The redskin did come up almost against him, and the next hunters prepared to eat their supper. The tall chief came| moment he felt a sharp pain under his chin. He tried to yell, forward and ate with them. He seemed to realize that he} put it ended in a gurgling sound and groan. Then he sank was both expected and welcomed. down on the ground, and in two or three minutes was the When he went away Jed motioned to his comrades to| geadest redskin ever seen in that village. wait till he returned, and then crept after him with the} “Now I will see if I can’t make myself look like a redskin ; stealthy tread of a panther. | just once in my life,” muttered Jed, as he stooped down and ; removed the fantastic head-dress of the dead chief. Then he ean took the blanket and threw it over his shoulder in the manner worn by the reds. The head-dress was adjusted- ~ CHAPTER XXII, : his own head. a ; ; “They can’t see my face in the dark,” he muttered, “an’ I : RR EE OE 553 , can talk Mingo as well as the best of ’em. I will keep out of The etnies waited till Jed was out of sight, and then the light and go round by all the wigwams and look for the began to talk about his unexpected movement, gal. Ef she is hyer I’ll go and tell Nick.” “He'll run into danger,” said one, ; Having completed his make-up, Jed marched boldly toward “He'll lose his scalp,” put in another. . ; the wigwams, passing several warriors, who did not seem to sate caught roasted,” added take any particular notice of him. One of the many curs ; ~ re ree boys,” said mi tie at had spoken. came up and began smelling around him in a suspicious man- _ “Jed Hotchkiss knows what he’s up to. They won't catch him ner. He avoided exposure by raising his foot and kicking the very easily. He is never caught napping.” cur out of his way. The dog gave a few yelps and kept out of _ “But what can one man do against a hundred warriors?” | "8 Way. mye _ one of the young pioneers asked, Strolling on down through the village, he peered into a “A great deal, when the hundred warriors don’t know that | number, where he could do so without exciting suspicion. He _ he is around,” Nick replied. “We must. hold ourselves in| aw no signs of any white captives in any of them. Just as - yesdiness to respe nd to tis signals for help.” » ut onion. ie cls Oe Dens ig scan adr mated fg wy ie ‘he ga. in one of the wigwams. 7 to = ots wat 4 help.” ; It was the voice of a woman, and so he turned to - riod nto a rotaund nes, and a it meant. He knew that Indian maidens seldom indulged in re tears, and when they did so they sought a secret place. - On reaching the wigwam he heard a warrior’s voice. “The paleface maiden will not be unhappy when she is Gray Hawk’s wife. She will be the wife of the chief of the "| village, and——” “I will never be the wife of an Indian! I will die first.” “By gum!” ejaculated Jed, in an undertone, as he recognized — or bela egies oy “Thar she is, an’ the pesky skunk © ct set Sy to her. ‘Great b’ars! how can I keep my hands. | off nim: a Hy, fi moge gg iSite india ged gta fe . there: them. TI ink Sie A cal ade aly ee lt

Page 27

Hawk gave the signal for the old crones to return and take charge of the fair captive. “Ah, my fine buck!” exclaimed Jed, “I’ll drop in and see ig ‘about that wooing myself.” \ He walked boldly around to the entrance of the wigwam 7 mand entered. f With an angry scow! on “his face, Gray Hawk rose to his is tomabawk.in hand, and confronted the intruder. ‘Jed did not give jm time to utter a yell, which he well - & ‘knew he would do the moment he recognized him. He sprang ? ‘forward and swept his keen-bladed knife under his chin. The q jugular was severed, and the chief sank down on the bear- right at the feet of the fair captive. _ Nora was almost paralyzed by the suddenness of the thing. did not utter a word, but gazed at the dying chief as if sight had a peculiar fascination which she was not able x. ora?” said Jed, in low tones. "Sie started as if stung, and glared at him. ‘She had taken him for another Indian, and cared not to take any notice of him. _eBut that voice! ‘She pushed her hair back, and glared at him with wild, . “Don’t make any noise.” * She sank ‘down on her knees by the side of the dead chief, Se her hands above her head, and murmured: _ “Oh, God! a hast heard my prayer! I am saved, and ” 4 “Don’t. make any noise,” he cautioned Seats, “or my pres- e here may be discovered. We are safe enough now.” “Yes; for I will die rather than fall into their hands again,” and she picked up the scalping-knife that had fallen from the ind of Gray Hawk: “I will defend myself to the last, and ‘by mv.own hand rather than be captured again!” a ‘woods waiting for us. We are seven in number. Come, we peat go out and join them. You must follow close behind / if I were a chief.” , I will wart ae you anywhere in pings wide world,” | ar ‘oe NICK AND JED. 25 Jed kept his eye on the tall chief, and stalked away toward the woods, Nora following close at his heels. Just as they gained the edge of the woods Nora caught his arm and whispered: “We are followed!” “Come on,” he returned in a low tone of voice. She went on, and did not look behind again till he halted and looked back himself. Then he saw a crouching figure following them, and in- stinctively knew that a prowling redskin was following them under the impression that he was an Indian chief leading the captive to the solitude of the forest. Quick as a flash Jed bounded forward. The savage, taken completely by surprise, straightened himself up and tried to get away. But it was too late. The long, keen-bladed hunt- ing-knife of the hunter entered his heart, and the savage threw up both hands, grasped at the air, and then sank down to the ground in the quivering agonies of death. Jed turned quietly away, and took Nora’s hand in his. “Are you hurt?” she trembling asked. “No; not a bit,” he replied. “I am so glad,” and she clung to his arm as if she regarded him as her only friend in the world. “So am I,” he dryly remarked. “It ain’t pleasant to git hurt by the pesky varmints.” “No,” and she relapsed into silence again. Presently’ the hunter stopped and made a signal, imitat- ing the owl so neajly that Nora was startled, thinking one of those night-birds was near to her. In a moment or two she heard another signal farther in the woods, and then Jed started forward. The signals were re- peated as they advanced, till the hunter stopped and said: “Nick!” “Jed!” responded Nick, and the next moment the two hunters grasped each other’s hands. “I’ve got her, Nick,” she heard Jed say to the other. “By gum!” responded Nick, feeling around in the dark; “what is she? Give me your hand, gal.” Nora reached out her hand and touched him. He grasped her hand and said, in low tones: “We would have died to save you, Nora.” “Oh, I thank God for such friends!" she murmured, her voice choking with emotion. — “Nick,” whispered Jed to his comrade, “we must take all the canoes, as Many as We can, an’ go down the river till daylight, and then go over to t’pther river.” “Yes, that’s the way, but we don’t want but two.” “Waal, go an’ git "em—no, we all go together.” he! Nick signaled to the other pioneers, and then they started | toward the river, which ran by the south side of the village. 4 Nick led the way, and Jed turned and took Nora up in his | arms as if she were but a mere child of five instead of nine- | teen years, and carried her along. She made no protest, but : [UR ae Som speed Dp Breovny sik apd. Kihend bin aa ; That kiss went direct to his heart. It paid him a thousand ~ Hse Bt Tapa ac ali eine d interest. Oh, how light her ‘ter "She would go) through Dike 1s cole code? har or it told her that | e brave, rugged pioneer tly to his heart loved her as she wanted | ‘held a her t|to. Cleon take In ‘her heart she even thanked the redskins tor sean ares. her, and thus beset se man a bg to ~

Page 28

a 26 river, rowing lightly till they were a mile below. Then they bent themselves to the stcciateie and sent thé canoes flying throtigh the water. It was near midnight when they started, and not a moment was lost from that time till daylight. “They will not disturb Gray Hawk,” said Jed, “till they find the deatt-Injun in thé bushes, an’ then they may suspect something an’ call ’im out. Mighty glad I found ’im in thar.” When daylight came the party landed, turned the canoes adrift, and started out through the woods. “They won’t find this trail,” said Nick, “though some other hunting party may run over it. But we hev got 4a start, an’ they can’t catch up afore we git to Willard’s.” ' When about a mile from the river, where the light of a fire could not be seen, the hunters shot a deer, and had the first meal of warm, freshly-cooked meat since starting out on the trip. The meal] over, they started forward again. Jed and Nora remained together during the whole day, as happy as two young children. The others seemed to know that they were jovers, and therefore left them alone together as much as they could. The day passed, and night found them tired and hungry about half way between the two rivers. Nora was very tired and footsore. The hunters built a shelter of green boughs for her to rest under, and gathered leaves till her bed was as downy as one of feathers. _ . The guards were vigilant all through the night. To the sur- prise of both Nick and Jed, the tall chief did not put in his ap- _ pearance at meal-time. They did not know what to think of it. f " ‘The next morning the little party resumed the journey to- “wartl the river, up which they intended to go till within a half day’s march of Willard’s. At first, Nora was too soré to walk. But when Jed volun- _ teered to carry her in his arms, she. made a desperate effort, and was soon able to walk. In a little while the soreness and stiffness from the long march of the day before wore off, and the party moved on at their usual pace. “Night found them on the bank of the river. rahe. conte that had been concealed, were brought out and held in readi- - ness to start at daylight the uext morning. Just as the stars were fading away, the little party entered the canoes and started up the river. At noon they left the river and proceeded to march across to Mig oo reer aac 7 rss ane at apremanga Just as the sun was sinking they reached the station, and were received with demonstrations of joy, by all the inhabit. basic ete = Bite NICK AND JED. “We will stay when we have carried our pelts to the trading- post once more,” said Nick, after a long pause, “eh, Jed? Shall we move down hyar to take Care of the settlement?” “Yes,” said Jed, and Nora Munroe’s face lighted up with a glow, and there beamed a glad, happy light in her eyes. She could not conceal her joy, and so, with the modest confusion of the young maiden, sprang up and ran away to hide her blushes. Her Aunt Sarah, who had engaged herself to Ben Murchison, ran after her, and said, when they were alone together: “Oh, Nora, dear, I know your secret! You love Jed Hotch- kiss! He is a noble, brave man, and worthy of any woman's love.” Nora hid her face in her aunt’s bosom and made no reply. “You need not be ashamed of your love, dear,” said Sarah. “I, too, love, and have promised Ben Murchison to be his wife as soon as his cabin is finished, which will be in two were Has he said anything to you yet?” rer “Yes,” murmured the happy maiden, burying her crimson face in the bosom more closely than ever. “What did he say? Tell me, dear, did he say he loved you?” “He kissed me.” “But what did he say?” f “He-kissed me, and his heart said to my heart ‘I love you,’ and that is all, Aunt Sarah.” “That is not a declaration, my dear. his wife?” “He kissed me, and that was everything,” she repeated. “Oh, he loves me—he loves me!” é “Nora, dear, that is not enough. Your mothc. dught to know > this.” “Not a word, Aunt Sarah. wait, and let me tell her. Don't. ae | : Did He ask you to be you say anything. Oh, he loves me, and I am happy.”_* Mrs. Munroe was wise enough to read her daugh%’s hap- piness in her eyes and fresh, young face, but said nothing to her about it. She was happy at the thought of having such a Man as a son-in-law, though he was twice the age of her daughter. The next day, when all were rested from the fatigue of the long journey, the young hunters told the story of their adven- tures, and gave Nick and Jed the full credit of their rescue from over fifty redskins, “and the total destruction of the band two days later with the exception of two or three war- riors. Their stories made them more than ever the heroes of the border, and it was not surprising that the settlers at Willard’s wanted them to live in their midst. : Two days later Nick and Jed told old Beit Willard that they would leave the next tiorning to return to their traps, which '| they sould move back to the Muskingum in the f1.--4._. When they went to shake hatids with all the met, worién, and children in the settlement, they found nearly every one in tears. Nora looked shyly up in Jed’s ey and asked: 2 eee you come ae t6 us?” ~ « Ar ii ccd i insite. sweet tones. “Then I will come back, an’—an'—Nora?”_

Page 29

NICK “I love you, too, you de: ing his kisses with two-f “By gum!” exclaimed th than any man ever was, an’ ppy to cry about it,” danced about the little cabi e girl he had twice saved from the Indians clasped to rt. She disengaged herself f > arms, at last, and said to him: “You will not be gone lonj “No—be back soon,” was t reply. “I say, Jed!” cried old Be’ , “we'll have a gabin ready for Nora an’ you when you coil’ back, eh—boys?” “Yes, yes!” cried two score of voices at a breath. “Thar! Come back in time to give us a double wedding, od man!” she replied, erest. y hunter, “I’m in more luck however, Nora blushed like a rose, and was too happy to say hing about it. She was to be married sooner than she expected, Aud at the same time her Aunt Sarah was. Two Qys later they reached the Alleghany River, and began an inspection of their numerous traps, which they found full of game. That night they went up to their old rendezvous in the cave under the mountain, where they had given the Mingoes such a terrible thrashing, to spend the time in sleep- ing in security. They found everything just as they had left it, and laid down to sleep. Such a good sleep they had not had in weeks, and it was no wonder that it was high noon the next day ere ‘they arose from their blankets. “By gum!” exclaimed Jed, ~I haven’t had such a good sleep in a month.” great Yaesu to the east of the little settlement. d Nick. “I am ten years younger this morning,” and io 3 arose and walked about the eave for several minutes. Jed did likewise, and then went out to take a look over the river, which lay at the foot of the mountain, some two hun- dred feet below the cave, like a sheet of molten silver. He did not go but a few feet beyond the narrow entrance to the Cave ere he sprang back as if stung by a hornt. “What's the matter?” Nick asked. Jed motioned him to come forware = be silent. Nick ran to his side, f Jed. pointed to the crag in front’ of the entrance to the cave. ; Nick looked, and was amazed at seeing a dozen stalwart : Savages sitting on it. > ; CHAPTER XXy. ay tt THE MYSTERY OF THE cRacs. . The redskins were like so many statues as they sat there on the crag gazing out over the broad panorama that lay out- _ Stretched before them. They seemed to be lost in deep reverie _ half dreaming, as it were, and sat as silent as so many ~ stumps. > Yet they had their weapons by them. Their bows, arrows, ; and tomahawks were where they could be caught up and util- ized at a moment’s notice. ~~ “What are they waitin’ for, Nick?” Jed asked in a whtaer, as he gazed at the eps statues. “Hanged if I know,” replied Nick. z ‘when they sind us out, 1 reckon.” : Ne ~ Maye they don't know whar this cave is, an’ will go away “But thar'll be: music egret mages hs) Ralenate ia Se Ee ed a AND return- ' | to pieces, after crushing him in her po * “B they don't leave soon some of em wil goto the Happy | ‘WHuntings [and soot sail full ot Pepin JED. — 27 “That’s me,” Jed replied. Thy waited two hours, and during that time not an Indian moved. Silent as statues they sat there, gazing out over the and he | river that rolled by the base of the mountain like a stream of | molten silver. | “I hate to shoot an Injun in cold blood,” “So do I,” assented Jed. “Let’s yell at ‘em an’ tell ‘em to leave hyer,” Nick. at us.” “Yes, that’s so.” | “Then I'll yell at ’em,” said Nick. remarked Nick. suggested “Then they'll jump up with a yell an’ go to shootin’ “Go ahead.” “Hyer, you redskins, you just sit, out of—Oh, Lord—took! old fellow!” and he slapped Jed on the back in a jolly, familiar} Whar are they?” The two hunters were pale with terror. The moment Nick’s voice broke the stillness of the scene every Indian instantly vanished into thin air, and without a Nick ad Jed finally took their departure and entered the! word, or action, or any noise whatsoever. Nick and Jed gazed at each other in dumfounded amaze- ment. “Great b’ars!” gasped Jed, his face the picture of puzzled interest. What does it mean, anyhow?” “Hanged if I know,” returned Nick. “They looked like real live redskins.” “So they did. But they must have been ghosts.” “Yes. Never heard of an Injun ghost before, though.” “Nor did I. But maybe they have souls like other people.” “Don’t believe an Injun has any more soul than a hornét has,” and Nick shook his head in a very determined manner. “Ef they, wasn’t ghosts, what were they, then?” Jed asked. “Don’t know. Never saw such a thing before.” “Let’s go out thar an’ see if we can find any trail.” They both went out to the crag, holding their rifles cocked, so as to be ready for any sudden emergency. But on the crag, which was solid rock, they could find no trail, nor anything that showed that anything in the shape of man or beast had recently been there. Just over the edge of the crag was a precipice of over two hundred feet. . To have gone over that would have been sure death to any Indian. But a careful search failed to show the mangled remains of anything below. ‘ “Waal,” exclaimed Nick, turning toward Jed, “this beats anything I ever saw in my life.” “Yes, they was dead Injuns, \Nick,” comrade full in the face. “I believe they wan They must have been some we > here.two weeks ago.” The two hunters went into the cave again to see if every- thing was in safe concealment. | They made sure that nothing would be disturbed, even though the place should be found and entered, after which they proceeded to go down a mountain side to the river. They entered a canoe, and rowed up the river several miles to where they had t*aps, and found that game was plentiful. The traps were full, and for the rest of the day _ haku kept busy attending to them. ig The next few days and nights were passed in attending to the traps ahd securing pelts. They were having good luck when they heard Indians ‘in the forest engaged in the chase. _ The redskins had come suddenly on a bear and her cub. The mother bear at once showed fight, and, when wounded by an arrow, charged furiously on her assailants, and tore one replied Jed, looking his wertu} a1 The wild shouting of the ed wlipnigwats 4 our heroes of of their ' traps, and took to ye game,

Page 30

“ait NICK eanoe, Their means of escape depended on their having a half hour’s start of their enemies. But ere they reached the other bank of the river they heard a yell from half a hundred throats, which plainly told them their presence had been discovered. “They have seen us,” said Nick. “Yes. We may as well pull for the cave,” answered Jed. “They can reach us with their arrows,” said Nick, as several arrows whizzed past the little canoe. “Then we must cut through the woods, and take the canoe with us,” suggested Jed. “By gum! They are swimming across after us!” Sure enough! Seeing two white hunters trying to get away from them, a dozen redskins sprang into the water, and commenced swim- ming for the opposite bank. Nick and Jed got behind a couple of trees and fired at two of the tufted heads. They were men who seldom missed their aim. The bullets crashed through the redskins’ heads, and the victims sank out of sight, to rise no more. The two rifle-shots woke up the echoes of the forest, and ere they died away, half a hundred redskins responded with de- moniacal yells. Then a shower of arrows came. But they fell wide of the mark, and our heroes remained unharmed behind their trees. They lost no time, however, in reloading their rifles and giving the reds another shot. Two more went down under their deadly aim, and then an- other howl went up from those in the woods on the other side.} A shower of arrows came, several of which struck the trees behind which the two hunters were sheltered. Crack! ‘ Crack! Two more savages went down, and six more were now pretty well over the stream. ; “Load quick, Jed!” cried Nick. Jed rammed a ball home in double-quick time. “Now for two more!” Crack! ‘Crack! “That leaves four!” cried Nick. pistols an’ club the other two.” The four reds were within ten feet of the river-bank. The two hunters rushed out and gave two of the reds a bullet each, and then waited for the other two to land. But when the two warriors saw that they were the only ones left of the swimmers, they hesitated about landing. “Come on, you pesky varmints!” cried Nick, flourishing his rifle as a club. ' “Ugh!” grunted one of the reds. jun go back.” “No, you won't! “Ugh! Me go!’ Both dived and swam nearly fifty feet under the water. Nick and Jed stepped back out of the why of sha arrows, and quickly reloaded their rifies. Then they waited for another shot, and soon got it. The last of the swimmers went down in the current, and : orm init “We'can take two with the “Paleface heap shoot. In- * . Ps We'll shoot you as you Ai . ——— & AND JED. aim of the two white hunters, ade the welkin ring with their yells. “Thar’s a big crowd of ’em a listened to their yells. “Yes,” returned Jed, “a it hot for us.” “So they will. can.” “But how can we wit “We must take it on “Wie can do that.” ; ‘ “Yes; let’s make a di and drag it out of the water.” They made a sudden dash down to the water’s edge, seized the birch canoe and drew it out of the water ere the reds on the other side could adjust their arrows. By the time the arrows came they had the canoe out of sight in the bushes. Then they took it on their shoulders and made wa down the river as fast as they could. The Indians understood at once that they took the canoe for the purpose of putting it in the river at some other: point. < So, when an hour passed and they saw nothing mo them, they sent over several warriors to find the trail, and let them know which way they went. The warriors found the trail, and yelled back across the river for the rest of the band to go downstream. Then the pursuit commenced on both sides of the river. But the two hunters had an hour’s start, and lost no time on the way. When they had gone about‘four miles they put the canoe in the water, and pushed out in the stream. g A yell a mile or so up the river told that they had vor seen. “We must pull for it now, Nick,” Jed cried, bending to the task of rowing. Nick pulled with all his might, “ppdy a little while, they landed at the foot of the mountain, sunk the canoe, and then made their way up to the cave. The savages saw where they landed, and made their way — round to the point, but were puzzled to know what became of the canoe. Their first impression was that the white hunters had carried the canoe up the mountain with them. Yet they could see no water-drops on the stones. Then they concluded r,” remarked Nick, as he git over hyer they'll make We mus k to our cave as quick as we anoe?” Iders,” answered Nick. ‘that it had been.sunk somewhere in the river. At last they followed the little trail up the rugged mountain- — side, till they reached the crag where the white hunters had seen the mysterious party of Indians a few mornings before. — There they halted, and looked around. They had never been . there before. But they had heard of the awful destruction of — a big band of their warriors at that very place, and were more or less awed by the unpleasant fact. Suddenly two whip-like cracks were heard behind them, and two of their bravest warriors tumbled over the crag, and eG down, bounding from crag to crag till they lodged on the Fagaes. at the water’s edge. ee ene e Being back in the cave, the smoke of the two "rifion was not seen by the savages. So they did not know whence ors the shots that had been so,fatal to two of their number. The < -erevice in the rocks, which led into the cave, se ed to run rue. in every direction. Then the sounds of the shots in the cave caused them to think they were much farther off thant were, ee They were looking in every direction he the ‘unseen toe, | when two more shots sent two other warriors to pope ; ‘Then a wild yell burst from them. — " “"Dhey had seen eapoge eames and made a rath for

Page 31

passage was choked up with dead , and remembered the terrible the awful destruction that had yn that mountain. Even while r wits about them, two more wre warriors bounding down In a few minutes the lit Indians. The other stoy stories they ha¥ heard ai Once overtaken their wari ‘they were trying to gath¢ shots from within sent i among the crags to a horri That was the climax. They: uttered yells of dis' - precipice any way they cou necks, “Thar they go!” cried Nick, ng out on the crag and giving them another shot. Jed did likewise, and then both stood there, and saw the remnant of the band swim the river . to the further bank. “Maybe they will get sick of this mountain after awhile,” id Nick, as he saw the warriors stop on the river-bank and uD at the mountain crags. ; but ef they ain’t sick now, they can come back an’ git another dose,” put in Jed. But N&k was right. The Mingoes never afterward dared pursue any white man who took refuge in that mountain. The two disastrous defeats they had sustained there made them regard that place as peculiarly fatal io their tribe. € But Nick and Jed never found out their superstition in reé- “ esis to the mountain until many years after, when they heard it from the lips of an old Mingo chief. Thinking that the ~ whole tribe would take a notion to come and surround the mountain, and thus start a siege that would ultimately end in disaster, they concluded to sell all theif pelts and make for Willard’s Settlement. gly they packed up all their pelts and made for the nearest trading post. Three days later they were at the trading-post where the famous duel took place between them and three Indians who had once tried to burn them at the stake. No time was lost in disposing of their pelts, and then they prepared to return to their mountain fastness for the purpose of breaking up and ‘wm -egoing down the river in canoes. _ They met several Mingoes at the trading-post, whom they ‘were suspicious of. They glared at each other as if they want- ed to engage in a trial of strength, backed up by hate. The Mingoes Hated the two whites more than all the rest Sot the race. They had received more defeats at their hands than from any other palefaces in the country; hence their - intense hatred of them. Nick and Jed were warned to beware of the Mingoes then at ime thepost, and at the same time were forbidden to do or say any- thing to promote a collision. There were more reds than ’ whites there at the time, which fact caused the savages to be quite aggressive in their conduct. One Mingo warrior was particularly insulting in his man: - wers, and Jed ridiculed him by a regular horse laugh as he | / strutted by. | “Ugh!” grunted the chief. ’ heap big fool!” fe : “Of course,” replied Jed. “When 1 laugh at ‘ tool 1 laugh ~ like one.” | es “Ugh!” grunted the Mingo. sbowarts tees ne: We 3 fight an’ take scalps.” you ever scalp anything bigger’n a muskrat, old yaller Ly (2 queried “Jed. 5 went plunging down the n without breaking their ter Pig hunter ee: Hike a \ Se Bae: NICK AND SEE ee oe ® great chief; take heap aloe,” replied the savage JED. . 29 drew his tomahawk and made at the hunter. Jed raised his left hand and caught the descending arm. Then, with his right, he gave him a punch on his nose that flattened it all over his face, ‘ CHAPTER XXVII. CONCLUSION, The savage went down like a log, and saw more stars than he had ever dreamed of. The other warriors, excited though they were, refrained from interfering as long as the whites did the same thing. Nick waited for the redskin to get up and face him again, which he soon did. The redskin could never understand the science of sparring. hence they could never stand before the white man who had any knowledge of the art whatever.’ It was the case in this instance. The savage came at him with his scalping-knife, and was sent to grass again so quickly that he hardly knew what did it. But he was game. He came up time and again, only to get laid out, until both eyes were closed so he could not see. Even then he tried to feel around for the hunter. The true character of the Indian was then displayed. His own comrades taunted him with his defeat, and declared him no better than a papoose or a squaw, and went away and left him to find his way home as best he could in his bruised and battered condition. “Now you had better get away from here ag soon as pos- sible,” said the post-agent to Nick, “as some of the reds will try to murder you ere another sunrise.” a “Oh, they have been trying to do that these ten years,” * re plied Nick, “but they haven’t done it yet.” The two hunters decided to leave that night, however, and, as it was a moonlit night, they could see well enough to travel. At the same time it was too dark to see or follow a trail. Two days later they were back again at the cave * the mountain, resting from the long tramp. Two days of rest was all they wanted, and then they pre- pared to move down the river with sue things as they wished ‘to carry with them. Going down to the river’s edge, they drew out two ee from their places of concealment, and began loading them up with things, such as extra bear-skins, many savage weapons which had been picked up after the two disastrous defeats of the Mingoes, and a few other articles. : When everything was in readiness for the start, they again ? concealed the canoes, and went up to the cave to wait for the going down'of the sun. ¥ 23 As soon as the darkness came‘on, our heroes went down i to the canoes, and pushed out into the stream. back up toward the top of the mountain, they soe li oy: at seeing a group of silent warriors” standing: eres: mgm : against the silvery dise of the moon. Sia 2 Sinughaihans a thet at the spectacle to sveatrcin Hence. : They knew thatat certain times that teroup @ of dus ‘would Appear on that mountain for

Page 32

NICK 30 other canoes on the way, and daylight found them at least one hundred miles on their way. Stopping at a secure place, they slept through the day, and resumed their journey through the night. Their intention was to go down the river into the Ohio, and follow that stream till they reached the mouth of the Muskingum, up whieh they would row till they would reach their place of destination. A week later they reached Willard’s Settlement, and were received with open arms. Pretty Nora Munroe was the happiest maiden in the world at the return of her hero-lover, and Jed was no less happy than she. He gave her bear-skins, and other useful articles, to furnish the cabin which the settlers had built for them. Preparations for the double marriage were made. Nora and her Aunt Sarah were to be wedded at the same time, and two happier women were never seen. The marriages took place in due time, and each couple set- tled down to the full enjoyment of wedded bliss. A year later and Nick led Mrs. Munroe, Nora’s mother, to the altar. Both Sarah and Nora were then mothers of bouncing boy- babies. Some time after these events a treaty of peace was made with the Mingoes. Then the little settlement grew rapidly in population and prosperity. Our heroes had many visits from the Mingo chiefs, who respected them for their courage and AND JED. From them. they learned se strange S6nduct had so by the trife as one whom e@ mutter continually in to itself. He was finally prowess as hunters and fighter that the mysterious tall chief, often puzzled them, was regar the Great Spirit had touched; a strange tongue, and left th lost, and never seen again. Some of the best families their descent from our her of the fact. alley of the Ohio now trace they never tire of boasting D. Read “RED LIGHT DICK, THE ENGINEER PRINCE; OR, THE BRAVEST BOY ON THE RAILROAD,” by Jas. C. Mer- ritt, which «will be the next number (314) of “Pluck and - Luck.” SPECIAL NOTICE: All back numbers of this weekly are always i in print. If you cannot obtain them festa any newsdealer, send the price in money or postage sfimps by mail to FRANK TOUSEY, PUBLISHER, 24 UNION SQUARE, NEW YORK, and you will receive the copies yoy order by return mail. “HAPPY DAYS.” The Best Dlustrated Weekly Story Paper Published aot: IsSUuUED BEVERY FRIDAY. . “HAPPY DAYS”: is a large 16-page paper containing ' Interesting Stories, Poems, Sketches, ‘Comic Stories, Jokes, Answers to Correspondents, and many other bright features. Its Authors and Artists have a national reputation. No amount of money is spared to make this weekly the best. published. - A Wew Story Begins Every Week in “Happy Days.” OUT TO-DAY! OUT TO-DAY! DOLLARS: AND DIMES: Or, A Boy’s Luck in Wall Street, By H. K. SHACKLEFORD. Begis in No. 504 of HAPPY DAYS, Issued May 1, PRICE 5 CENTS. For Sale by allf Newsdealers, or will be sent to any address on the zeseipt of priee by FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, _94 Union Bquare, 7 eige virae rE: : pat a ors Mee Thea. ae __ = . cule = % sie: SP a PP tomy:

Page 33

SECRET ea eS SERVICE OLD AND YOUNG KING BRADY, DETECTIVES. PRICE 5 CTS. 32 PAGES. COLORED COVERS. ISSUED WEEKLY LATEST ISSUES: 197 The ve and the Duke's Diamonds; or, The Mystery of the Yac 198 T ecies and the Bed Rock Mystery; or, Working in the Black ls, 199 The e Bradys and the Card Crooks; or, Working on an Ocean Liner. ays and “John Smith’; or, The Man Without a ‘Name. radys and the Manhunte Down in the Dismal Swamp, Bradys aiid the § High bck’ Facet t or, The Secret of the ven Ly Lady al teps. 203 a rn! thé Kidck House; or, Rustling the Rustiers on the 204 The Bradys is Baxtér Street; or, The Hotise Withoit a’ Door. The Bradys Midnight Call; or, The Mystery of Harlem Heights. the Br s Behind the Bars; or, Working on Blackwells Island. = ‘the Bra al and the Brewer's Bonds; or, Working on a Wall it 308 The Eee on the Bowery; or, The Search for a Missing Girl. 209 The 8 and the Pawnbroker; or, A Very Mysterious Case. 210 Fre 5 ave apa the Gold Kakirs; or, Working for the Mint. Bonanza Bay; or, Working on a Million Dollar ” rede and the Black Riders; or, The Mysterious Murder at ” The Bradys and Senator Sum; or, Working With Washington 314 ae Bradys and the Man from Nowhere, or, Their Very Hardest mts Whe Bradys and “No. 99°; or, The Search for a Mad Mtilton- aire. 9218 The Bradys at Bali's Bay; or, The Trail Whieb Led to the Are- 17 or, Workin w in Chinat ' iis oy "pans ‘a atid Bae Weg ane Ok hast, 2 Paleatows. . re The rays a ee the Blind Batiker; or, Fetretting Out the Wan ‘226 mie Bhadys kL ahd the Blick Cat; or, Working Among the Card *< Tag ea nee 7 and the Texas Oil King; or, Seeking a Clew in the 222 Sane Brad, atid ex Night Hawk; or, New York at Midni, 223 The B - in the Ba Hs ands ; $5 work i‘ Shite Dekcte. 334 The Bradys at pad Hall ; The Mysterlous House on the Harlem. The Bradys and the Fire Marshal; or, Hot Work in Hornérs- (926 The dys and the Three Sheriffs; or, Doing a Turn in Ten- oo7 the Braliys dnd the Opium Stnugglers; or, A Hot Trail on the Pacific Coa ew Hiwihipang: or, Shaking Up the Wall Street Wire he radys Am mou the Blarney oh or, Mie the ak t West. Pot rhe a : Wr: ita the s Bra nee sha. Capeate ange’ uty ‘ihe Msatet ieee saa vltgs ck Chee: g the, Dlamona c eiion ‘atid “Bowery Bin”: or, has Crodké of Coot gs at cosnecsuale ; or, Stnoking Out the at 6 and the = Bos ; of, The A. D. ; and ‘the Pll R4 The Great fd tay spray radian tent Wat St te = te a zane ) Play ners and “Fancy Frank” The "Bradys at Battle Cliff ; or, ae Up the Grand Canyon. = ee and “Mustang Mike" ; The Man With the ‘Branded an The Bradys at Gold Hill; The Montana. ag Bradys and Pilgrim Pete; or, The Velvet Gang of Flood 241 242 243 244 or, Mystery of the Man from or, The Tough Sports of Terror The Fate of the Dark Deeds in The gs and the Black Haglé Express; or, Frisco Fiyer. The Bradys and Hi-Lo-Jak ; or, Chinatown. AT The Bra zs and the Texas Rangers: or, Rounding up the Green Goods Fakirs. 248 a Bradys and “Simple Sue’; or, The Keno Queen of Sawdust t 249 The radys and the Wal! Street Wizard; or, the Cash That Did a Not Come. 250 ie me Cigarette Charlie; or, the Smoothest Crovk in the Wor 251 me Bradys at Bandit Gulch; or, From Wall Street to the Far est. 25: ane en in the Foot-Hilis; or, The Blue Band of Hard Luck suied, 253 The Bradys and Brady the Banker; or, The Secret of the Old aN Santa Pe Trail. 254 The Bradys’ Graveyard Clue; or, Dealings With Doctor Death. 255 The hee and “Lonely Luke”: or, ‘the Hard Gang of Hard- scrabble. 256 The Bradys and Tombstone Tom: or, A Hurry Call from Arizona. 257 ar sand Backwoods Trail; or, Landing the Log Rollers 258 The "Bradys and “Joe Jinger”’; or, The Clew in the Convict Camp. 259 — Gradys at Madman's Roost; or, A Clew from the Golden Gate. 260 Tag: Biadys and the Border Band; or, Six Weeks’ Work Along e Line. 261 The Bradys in Sam ape Cie or, The Gang of the Silver Seven. 262 ne Mott Street ystery; or, The Case of Mrs. Ching ow 263 The Bradys’ Black Butte Raid; or, Trailing the Idaho “Terror.” 2 the Bradys and Jockey Joe ; or, Urouked Work at the seen The, Bradys at Kicking Horse Canyon ; or, Working for the C adian Vacific, The Breda and * Bleck Jack” ; or, Tracking the Negro Crooks. The Bradys’ Wild West Clew; or, Knocking About Nevada. bi basa ys’ Dash to Deadwood : A Mystery of the Black The ‘Hradgs and “Hum my Hank" ; The Silver Bape of Shasta. The Bradys and Dr. Dockery; or, “the re Band of Seven. The Bradys’ Western Raid; or, Trailing A “Bad’’ Man to Texaa. The 2 og at Fort Yuma; or, The Mix- -up with the “King of or, The aay and the Bond King; or, Working on a Wall Street Case. The Bradys and Fakir Fred; Fair, Bra California Call; or, Hot Work in igtow 6 Ed Bradys baa Dollar Camp; or, Rough Times in "Rattle 277 re Brady Sha ‘the Black Hounds; or, The Mystery of the Midas 27: Brad Up. Bad River; or, After the Worst Man of All. 0 he Beedse zea! “Uncle Hiram”; or, Hot Work with a Hayseed Crook. or, The Mystery of the County 280 The Bradys and Kid King; or, Tracking the Arizona Terror. Address on Receipt of Price, 5 Cents per Copy, by 24 Union ema New York. Anta ee am ye ge ast oat a fi send them to you by re- AS :M NEY. es ee “FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, New York. s toe whieh please wend, me: Ps feet e eee w eens eee are sewn eteeeb bees as, thls bv eeeseydbeeeeals Dear Sm— Enclosed find... ... ce +++ copies of WORK AND WIN, Nos. .* eee f WILD WEST WEEKLY, No Peo e ewe oct A Sec es erro etibpe sas sesseiweessesece eee Fey Oe ERE ERTL OTe eee tl 7 2% ‘ or Sere eee eee eee ee eee eee ei. ee ee ee er ree 2 ry Me ee eee eH ee ee eee EEE EEE HEHEHE HESS EESESE EHH H EE EEE HG eeeeeeD J 4 Pec er ee? LT wre ree RAL Re AROSE MEORER EY CYT ae 6 ING. on hs otn Saupe Uae te POR eee t wees ss Cie dans oc obs soon « Py , - ~ “wees SE REO Re eee ER EERE EERE HOHE EEE HE TOES ESC ELH O SHOTS Se vere ee ate tee DOWME Fe yee is ee ee we ars ea hs ie

Page 34

THE LIBERTY A Weekly Magazine containing Stories of the American Revolution. By HARRY MOORE. These stories are based on account of the exciting adventures of a brave han youths who were always ready and the gallant cause of Independence. 32 large pages of reading matter, for the sake of helping alon Every number will consist o BOYD OF 76. eo, Oe actual facts and give a faithful ef American willing to imperil their lives hound in a beautiful colored cover. LATEST ISSUES: 99 The ere Boys in New York; or, Helping to Hold the Great 100 The io Tiherty Pe Fed Risk; or, Ready to Take Chances. 101 ‘The Liberty -Net; or, Hanling the Redcoats In. 102 to Uiberty Boys’ Tis tning Work; or, ‘'oo Fast for the British. 108 he Liberty Boys h Lacey junder ; or, The Mistake that Helped em. 104 The res Bo Shrewd Trick or, ringing a Big Surprise. 105 The L 34 Bare Cunnl ok Gutiting ay Enemy. J 106 The ite Boys’ “B' ‘; or, Knocking the Rekeonts Out. 107 The Liberty Boys “Wild Dublin. 108 The ng ind Boys’ Surprise; or, Not Just What They Were Look- . Treasure; or, A Luck ee tae Boe § Find. r io Liberty Boys in Trouble; or, A Bad Run of Luck. 111 The Liberty Boys’ Jubilee; or, Great Da 112 e Li Boys Cornered ; or, «Which Way Shall 113 s ew Boys at Valley’ Forge; or, Enduring Terrible Hard- ps. a6 ame Ww Boys eeng: or, Lost in_ the Greniey Boys’ And How og Ue ut Not Beaten. Tr, 8 The Linerty Boge oe oaehtas ed; or, Eg erry 117 The Liberty Bers and the Dwarf; or, rn Enemy. Trishingn” ; or, A Lively Lad from Ho The pee oy pmo -Shots; ot = Dead aware weipea. s' League; or e Coun 8 o He 2 The luiberty Be rh Boys’ Neatest ck; or, How the Reda ware 13 - gee Boys Stranded; or, Afoot in the Enemy's Country. by Leerte Boys in the Saddle ; or, Lively Work for Liberty's a ae i Tabaity Boys’ Roranga : o or, Taking Toll from the Tories. FE inet Bos ~ tga at ; or. The ed gall of Rr. 5 Th 4 “ON E Dut: or 13a th ‘The e Liberty or Boys J ie The Esca) je Call or. The Plot fo Polson W Washington, 127 The Liberty Boys. “Qneen Hsther”; or, The Wyoming Massacre. 128 The Liberty Boys’ Horse Guard: or, On the High Hills of Santee. 129 The Boys and Aaron. Burr; or, Battling for Independ- 130 ~4 bye Boys and the “Swamp Fox” ; or, Helping Marion. 131 ‘Liberty Boy and Ethen Allen; or, Old and Soone Veterans. 182 The Li pas the King’s Spy; or, Diamond Cut Dia- ; Liberty Bo: Bayonet Ch or, The Si of Yorktown. ie #4 The Liberty p= ty and Paul * Paceeaeay The Martyts of the Prison 1385 ar Sy Boys at Bowling Green; or, Smashing the King’s 136 The rty Boys and Nathan Hale; or, The Brave Patriot Spy. 137 be Liberty Boys’ “Minute Men”; or, The Battle of the Cow Pens. The Liberty Boys and the Traitor; or, How They Handled Him. The Liberty Boys at Yellow Creek ; or, Routing the Redcoats. The Liberty Boys and General Greene ; ; or, Chasing Corny - The Liberty Boys in Richmond; or, Fighting Traitor A ‘ae The ay Boys and the Terrible Tory; or, Beuting a Bad ~~ “Taberty Boys’ Sword-Fight; or, Winning with the Enemy's Weapons. tlberty Boys in Georgia; or, Lively Times Down South. Liberty Boys’ Greatest Triumph; or, The March to Victory. Liberty Boys and the mepes Spy; or, Two of a Kind. Liberty Boys in Florida; or, ‘ighting Prevyost’s Arm Liberty Boys’ Last Chance; or, Making the Best of t Liberty Boys’ Sharpshooters; or, The Battle of the Kegs. Liberty Boys on Guard; or, Watching the Bnemy. Liberty Boys’ Strange Guide; or, the Mysterious Maiden. Liberty Boys in the Mountains ; or, Among Rough People. Liberty Boys’ Retreat; or, in the Shades of Death Liberty Boys and the Fire Fiend; or, A New Kind of Battle. The Liberty Boys in Quakertown; or, Making Things Lively in Philadelphia. The Liberty Boys and the Gypsies: or, A Wonderful Surprise: The Liberty Boys’ Flying Artillery; or “Liberty or Death.” The yg EE Boys Against the Red Demons; or, Fighting the [n- dian Raiders. The Liberty Boys' Gunners; or, The Bombardment of ge ase A - The Liberty Boys and Lafayette ; or, Helpimg the Young Fr General. The Liberty Boys’ Grit; or, The Bravest of the Brave. The Liberty Boys at West Point; or, Helping to Watch the Red- coats. 163 The Liberty Boys’ Terrible Tussle; or, Fighting to a Finish. 7 164 The Liberty Boys and “Light Horse Harry"; or, Chasing the British Drees 165 The Liberty Fars Oe ;or, Working for Washin 166 The Liberty Boys and M Ute to Mart; or, The Arc pee ee 167 The Deety Bons At front ; Or, Greate t an cant kkctes 169 The Labor oe Nae a ne r4 “ Freed Ba wine; or, om. ~ 176 ethos bay ake ; Or, Facmost Recruita. 171 The Boys’ Awk mad; g., Bbaicng in New Re Reeruite, 172 The Liberty Boys’ Fierce ; or, Hi 173 The Boys at Forty Fort; or, Awe ore of ececdantiaiel ‘ 174 The Liberty Bove aa Swam Rats; or, Keeping the Redcoats Worried. 175 The Liberty Boys’ Death March: Gt, ‘The Girl of the Regiment. jf Lif dee Hires Bert a ORGAO ere Siam, 178 The Liberty Boys’ Corps; ot or Pightiig the Starry : ‘For Sale by All Newsdealers, or will be Sent to Any Address on Receipt of Price, 5 Cents per Copy, by FRANK TOUMEY, Fu 24 Union Square, New Kor . IF you WANT ANY BACK NUMBERS ; newsdealers, they can be obtained from this office direct. Cut out aud fin | bert ries and procure them from in the folloy Order and send it to us with the price of the books you want and we will send them to you by re _ turn mail — " : ‘AGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. the eeuneeeerereenerertseeeseeeecesenseretuctersereereneeeeneereereenerieeeecerrencer ees “eee ee “rreee Pocnets, TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, New York. find... .. .cents for which please send me: arene WEEKLY, 1 IC REE LASERS eens cee Meas ese sb Dear Srm—En yy eee tr eee ee Sighs ia ahha Sh Meh As oe ee s] sites: * sss aba seem. “cae eet « "Uae cen +s Se tegueeds 69 S° aie . " rete teense eee

Page 35

Pwr OU eC Ke A IN DPD maU0 Ce CONTAINS ALL SORTS OF STORIES. EVERY STORY COMPLETE 32 PAGES. BEAUTIFULLY COLORED COVERS. PRICE 5 ENTS 269 wiae Awake Will, The Plucky Boy Fireman of No. 3; or, Fight- the Flames for Fame and Fortune. By ex-Fire ‘Chiet ar- 307 Up From the Ranks: or. From Corporal to General. A § Rebellion. hy "Gen'l Jas. A. Gordon, 308 Ex eyes From School; or, The Rebels of Beechdale A¢ LATEST ISSUES: 276 The Road to Rain: or, The Snares and Temptat % 238 Twenty Years on an Island; or, The Story of a Castaway. By York. By Jno. B. Dow Capt. Thos. H. Wilson. 277 A Spy at 16; or, Fighting for Washington and [ 239 Colorado Carl; or, The King of the Saddle. By An Old Scout. Gen'l Jas. A. Gordon. 4 240 Hook and_ Ladder r Jack, the Daring You. Fireman. By Ex-Fire | 278 eee tte Torpedo; or, The Black Demon a oname. 241 Ice-Bound; or, Among the Floes. By Berton Bertrew. 279 High Lad D 242 Jack Wright “and His = Ferien ound; or, Tracking an Un- 8 or is at the Tear’ By marine Ciel "Warden a as -” oname. ” Py a 243 2 Ee Glass ; — The a ‘oo 3 fomee of New York. A R. ge ey i e Temperance Sto no. B. Dowd 244 The Maniac Engineer; pa, Lites a Mystery. By Jas. C. Merritt. 7 oem de ee Sort Pee Aa 245 Jack 7 a ag me rer Locomotive ; or, The Lost Mine of | 282 Jack right and His Electric Sea Ghost; or, A St Dea t 246 Be Ay Boy Scouts. A Story of the Wild West. By An Old 4 Sixty Mile Sam. Ag By ny § on Time. By Jas. 247 Young Hlekory, the Spy; or, Man, Woman, or Boy. By Gen’'l oS oul sae fe ye Sages as. A. 285 Joe, The Actor's Bo . 248 ee eee. the Boy Actor. By N. S. Wood (The Young Ameri-~ > (the Young pe oe EB Pt one apd tts to 249A New York iboy in the Soudan ; or, The Mahdi's Slave. By How- foot Te ak, elle te omer: ar us - " . 250 ro eet ‘and His age 8 gd Ship; or, 30,000 Leagues 287 — gy Youngest Operator in Wall ve the y “Nonam ans ; 251 The Game-Cock of Deadwood. A ‘Story of the Wild Northwest. 258 'Bez_ Vards;. of, Making =; Home on the Borter. By Jas C. Merritt. nother, 252 aL Hook, the Boy Fireman of No. 1; or, Always at His Post. | 75° The Twenty poses or, the Mystery of the Coast. By Ex-Fire Chief Warden, olin Sat hee Can 253 The Waits of New York. By N. 8. Woods (The Young American | ~ ope ee Saree y Scout ; of, Lite in the Saddle. Ry ctor). “ ‘ : A 254 ium haba and oa lo of the Deep; or, Driven Afloat in the sg bala a Or, “tan Sp the Mecha. Ove ao re, y “Non ] ray: o 255 En ihe Oot Sea of Ice; or, The Perils of a Boy Whaler. By Berton se S Draper. Senger: ot, Tien ae See are 256 as v Anthony Wayne, the Hero of Stony Point. By Gen'l. Jas. = ane hie ny see’ S oS “Sno. BI nn § ime Bipw, Fae . Gor 257 The Arkansas Scout; or, Fighting the Redskins. By An ot}??? Mightning Lew. the itor" cout ; or, Perea a 258 Jack Wright's 1 Demon of the Plains; or, Wild Adventures“Among ane mie Gas ee So ee Reyes, The GO ee ‘ow 5 250 The Merry Ten; or, The Shadows of a Social Club. By Ino. B. | 2% A oor Boy's Fight: or, The Hero of the School 260 Dan Driver, the Boy Engineer of the Mountain Express; or, 297 a Jack Tempest ; or, The Prince of the Sea. By { Ballrosding, on the Denver and Rio Grande, . Wilson. 261 eee Seu st Santa Fe; or, The Lions’ Treasure Cave. By An | 298 pny Botton the Young Clown and Bareback Rider. — ertrew. 262 bse he et Bis pe sorpee? Ram; or, The Sunken | 299 oe Saale as or, The Prince of the Lightning E as. C. Merritt. ye Schools; or, Fighting tc for the Championship. By - ae ~~ pone ee = a a. ed — arson 3 or, ‘ " 264 sack i Reef, the Bog Captain; or, Adventures on the Ocean. By Scout 7 8 ee plete gee: = ‘apt. ilson. 302 From t Boo’ 265 A ey in Wall Street; or, Dick Hatch, the Young Broker. By the Tce Mucice are = a kK. Shackleford. $08 Old Putnam's Pet; or, The Yo Patriot Spy. A 8 266 Jack Wright and his Doe-Cisé _Alr Motor; or, Searching for a > itevolution. By’ ee: J eB ge ies, acta 2 Expl nee. Be ie ee. en. Jas. A. Gord 267 sig ae Cube?” or, The Champions of Columbia By a ae sealetors ears casa or, ea y yn Draper. 305 Rob Rudder, the c Pilot of the Mississippi. By Ho 268 Tue “Boy Cattle King; or, Frank Forcham’s Wild West Ranch. | 306 The Downward Path: or, The Road to ein. A True Old Scout. Story. By H. K. Shackleford. 270 Pg Ww me His , wees rie Felarcle : or, Fighting ‘the Aue Draper. glers_ rimson y oname Born Firem Fire ( hie 271 of New York. A Pathetle Story of a Great City. |3?9 Histiane saeco ue Gar Tecker of the Steppeall y Wood (the Young American Actor). : 272 Sitting iuir's Last men or, The Vengeance of an Indian Police-| 311 Sinus the C Continent with a Cireus; or, The Twin Riders 4 n, By Pawnee rtrew 273 The ty Be oe e- the erieee or, The Mystery of a Miss-|312 On rd a ia Mangt-War; or, Jack Farragut in the U.S. 274 Jack High, th His, Ocean ‘Plunger: or, The Harpoon Hunters | 313 wine? Foe, i King Prappers of the Border. An Old) 275 Cl aim ; or, The s of the Mountain, By Jas. C, Merritt. gee Red jm Oey ian 0. Merrie bi nes one For Sale by All Newsdealers, or will be Sent to Any Address on Receipt of Price, 5 Cents per Copy.) TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, Me r IF YOU WANT ANY BACK IMBERS”™. _of our Libraries pi procure them from newsdealers, they can be obtained from this office direct. “Cut o oe oe te sna Ae A log yor and send it te us with the price of the books you want and we wil. send them to ye AGE STAMPS TAKEN THE SAME AS MONEY. oc eet ese Seeeoveces AROS GE Cle Cee we eee 4 or ee % eevee ec ee bee bbedinie Mees ser ceccorevarseecs FRANK TOUSEY, Publisher, 24 Union Square, New York. ,, veteeeeseeesenpeeercres sed ~ Dear Sm—Enclosed find......cents for which please se 1 me: nt ae if ...-copies of WORK AND WIN, NOs. wise sssseeeeeeeseee eres sighs gee semencoeupgpmetereetngeesscsessnees .-.. “ WILD WEST WEEKLY,’ Nos......-..2--+-+-++ due ecennmemereererecegeteeccesssercecse ess .... “ & FRANK READE WEEKLY, Nos........-++-++- ep es fee ete eae |.” ees cane ” oo PLP LUCK, (Nos....---- si. ; bp eo eee ~-.- “ © SECRET SERVICE, 3 . Perr rk eos ¢ © THE LIBERTY BO D imadewti + sess one” ~oee “© © Ten-Cent Hand ae of ee ee ce

Page 36

—_—- ! THE STAGE. io. 41. THE BOYS OF NEW YORK END MEN’S JOKE WO i.—Containing a great variety of the latest jokes used by the G20 gacnd me a amateur minstrels is complete without ittle book. Varied assortment of stump speeches, Negro, Dutch s0 end men’s jokes. Just the thing for home amuse- teur shows. aE BOYS OF NEW YORK MINSTREL GUIDE BOOK.—Something new and very instructive. Every tain this book, as it contains full instructions for or- imateur minstrel troupe. LDOON’S JOKES.—This is one of the most original pr published, and it is brimful of wit and humor. It irge collection of songs, jokes, conundrums, ete., of Hoon, the great wit, humorist, and practical joker of tv boy who can enjoy a good substantial joke should immediately. DW TO BECOME AN ACTOR.—Containing com- fions how to make up for various characters on the er with the duties of the Stage Manager, Prompter, Fand Property Man. By a prominent Stage Manager. iS WILLIAMS’ JOKE BOOK.—Containing the lat- “dotes and funny stories of this world-renowned and German comedian. Sixty-four pages; handsome containing a half-tone photo of the author. HOUSEKEEPING. DW TO KEEP A WINDOW GARDEN.—Containing fons for constructing a window garden either in town na the most approved methods for raising beautiful ne. The most complete book of the kind ever pub- OW TO COOK.—One of the most instructive books er published. It contains recipes for cooking meats, hd oysters; also pies, puddings, cakes and all kinds of grand collection of recipes by one of our most popular W TO KEEP HOUSE.—It contains information for DYS. gi men and women; it will teach you how to auything around the house, such as parlor ornaments, gents, Aeolian harps, and bird lime for catching birds. ; ELECTRICAL. DW TO MAKE AND USE ELECTRICITY.—A de- fhe wonderful uses of electricity and electro magnetism ; full instructions for making Electric Toys. Batteries, orge Trebel, A. M., M. D. Containing over fifty il- OW TO MAKE ELECTRICAL MACHINES.—Con- slirections for making electrical machines, induction E BOYS OF NEW YORK STUMP SPEAKER.— | eo and many novel toys to be worked by electricity. Bennett. Fully illustrated. DW TO DOC ELECTRICAL TRICKS.—Containing a on of instructi and highly amusing electrical tricks, Bh illustrations. By A. Anderson. ENTERTAINMENT. ; IW TO BECOME A VENTRILOQUIST.—By Harry | Phe secret given away. Every intelligent boy reading sinstructions, by a practical professor (delighting multi- S night with his wonderful imitations), can master the te any amount of fun for himself and friends. It is the Ok ever published. and there’s millions (of fun) in it. HOW TO ENTERTAIN AN EVENING PARTY.—A le little book just published. A complete compendium vorts, card diversions, comic recitations, etc., suitable © drawing-room entertainment. It contains more for the any book published. OW TO PLAY GAMES.—A complete and useful little | ning the rules and regulations of billiards, bagatelle, | : t. dominoes, etc. SOLVE CONUNDRUMS.—Containing all | : PLAY CARDS.—A complete and handy little | and full directions for playing Euchre, Crib- | Brty-Five, Rounce, Pedro Sancho, Draw Poker, "h, 2 TOW TO DO PUZZLES.—Containing over three hun- sting puzzles and conundrums. with key to same. bok. Fully illustrated. By A. Anderson. > ETIQUETTE. No. 18. HOW TO DO IT; OR, BOOK OF ETIQURTTE.—It a great life secret, and one that every young man desi#s to know | about. There’s happiness in it. ae fo. 38. HOW TO BEHAVE.—Containing the rules agi etiquette | good society and the easiest and most approved meifpds of ap- | ring to good advantage at parties, balls, the theatre, rch, and the drawing-room. DECLAMATIG No. 27. HOW TO RECITE AND B Containing the most populs Walect, French dialect, Yan’ vith many standard readings. ) Address Fours, and many other popular zames of cards, | and experiences of well-known detect . No. 31: HOW TO BECOME A SPEAKER.—Containing four- teen illustrations, giving the different positions requisite to become 2 good speaker, reader and elocutionist. Also containing gems from all the popular authors of prose and poetry, arranged in the most simple and concise manner possible. No. 49. HOW TO DEBATE.—Giving rules for conducting de- bates, outlines for debates, questions for discussion, and the best sources for procuring information on the questions given. 1 SOCIETY. _ No. 3. HOW TO FLIRT.—The arts and wiles of flirtation are fully explained by this little book. Besides the various methods of handkerchief, fan, glove, parasol, window and hat flirtation, it con- tains a full list of the language and sentiment of flowers, which is interesting to everybody, both old and young. You cannot be happy without one, _No. 4. HOW TO DANCE is the title of a new and handsome littie book just issued by Frank Tousey. It contains full instruc- tions in the art of dancing, etiquette in the ba!l-room and at parties, a to dress, and full directions for calling off in all popular square dances. No. 5. HOW TO MAKE LOVE.—A complete guide to love, courtship and marriage, giving sensible advice, rules and etiquette to be observed, with many curious and interesting things not gen- erally known. No. 17. HOW. TO DRESS.—Containing full instruction in the art of dressing and appearing well at home and abroad, giving the selections of colors, material, and how tg have them made up. No. 18. HOW ‘TO BECOME BEAUTIFUL.—One of the brightest and most valuable little books ever given to the world. Everybody wishes to know how to become beautiful, both male and female. The secret is simple, and almost costless. Read this book and be convinced how to become beautiful. BIRDS AND ANIMALS. No. 7. HOW TO KEEP BIRDS.—Handsomely illustrated and contaiuing full instructions for the management and training of the canary, mockingbird, bobolink, blackbird, paroquet, pare ete. No. 39. HOW TO RAISE DOGS, POULTRY, PIGEONS AND RABBITS.—A useful and instructive book. Handsomely illus- trated. By Ira Drofraw. No. 40. HOW TO MAKE AND SET TRAPS.—Including hints jon how to catvh moles, weasels, otter, rats, squirrels and birds. Also how to cure skins. Keene, No. Copiously illustrated. By J. Harrington HOW TO STUFF BIRDS AND ANIMALS—A 50. | valuable book, giving instructions in collecting, preparing, mounting and preserving birds, animals and insects. No. 54. HOW TO KEEP AND MANAGE PETS.—Giving com- plete information as to the manner and method of raising, keeping, taming, breeding, and managing all kinds of pets; also giving full instructioas for making cages, etc. Fully explained by twenty-eight illustrations, making it the most complete book of the kind ever published. MISCELLANEOUS. No. 8. HOW TO BECOME A SCIENTIST.—A useful and in- structive book, giving a complete treatise on chemistry; also ex- periments in acoustics, mechanics, mathematics, chemistry, and di- rections for making fireworks, colored fires, and gas balloons. This book cannot be equaled. No. 14. HOW TO MAKE CANDY.—A complete hand-book for making all kinds of candy, ic ream, syrups, essences, ete., etc. No. 19.—F RANK ‘TOUSEY’S UNITED STATES DISTANCE | TABLES, POCKET COMPANION AND GUIDE.—Giving the official distances on all the railroads of the United States and Canada. Also table of distances by water to foreign ports, hack fares in the principal cities, reports of the census, etc., etc., making it one of the most complete and handy books published No. 38. HOW TO BECOME YOUR OWN DOCTOR.—A won- derful book. containing useful and practical information in the treatment of ordinary diseases and ailments common to every family. Abounding in useful and effective recipes for general com- plaints. No. 55. HOW. TO COLLECT STAMPS AND COINS.—Con- as of the day, amusing riddles, curious catches | taining valuable information regarding the collecting and arranging of stamps and coins. Handsomely illustrated. No. 58. HOW TO BE A DETECTIVE.—By Old King Brady, the world-known detective. In which he lays down some valuable and sensible rules for beginners, and also relates some adventures Ives. No. 60. HOW TO BECOME A PHOTOGRAPHER.—Contain- ing useful information regarding the Camera and how to work it; also how to make Photographic Magic Lantern Slides and other Transparencies. Handsomely illustrated. By Captain W. De W. Abney No. 62. HOW TO BECOME A WEST POINT MILITARY CADET.—Containing full explanations how to gain admittance, course of Study, Examinations, Duties, Staff of Officers, Post Guard, Police Regulations, Fire Department, and all a boy should know to be a Cadet. Compiled and written by Lu Senarens, author of “How to Become a Naval Cadet.” No. 68. HOW TO BECOME A NAVAL CADET.—Complete in- how to gain admission to the Annapolis Naval so containing the course of instruction, description and buildings, historical sketch. and everything a boy e an officer in the United States Navy. Com- Senarens, author of “How to Become a et.” 25 CENTS. Square, New York.